Elf, Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel Redux by Fiondil
Ellie · 4 September 2007 · Chapter 119: The First Round
loved the surprise ending with princes losing. and glorfy was pretty funny, too. still enjoying this story immensely!
Author's reply
Hi Ellie! Glad you're still enjoying this story. As for the princes losing... well, somebody has to. *grin*
eiluj · 4 September 2007 · Chapter 119: The First Round
I was expecting a major character (G, F, or I) to lose the first match and end up winning in the parma list, but assumed it would be Glorfindel who’d be at the disadvantage of having to fight the extra matches the parma group are in for -- typical of his luck in the last 6 months. I didn’t think Ingwion would lose in *this* round, though I did expect you’d fit in at least one flukey loss (like Ingwion’s being blinded by the glare off Cirion’s armor) happening to someone somewhere along the line. "It would grieve me if Ingwion is unable to compete, for I know how much he has been looking forward to this tournament. I would hate to have him done with the tournament before he’s even begun." -- Okay, I may have seen a fair amount of SCA demo fighting years ago, but never a tournament, so I don’t know what I’m talking about. 8-) But -- If Ingwion had to be dropped from the tourney because Vëantur was knocked out (both figuratively and literally), wouldn’t there be a problem? Yes, I spose it’s chivalrous -- Ingwion didn’t fight, so he can’t be considered a winner. But following that logic, if Ingwion's match isn't fought, there’d be no one to fight the winner of the match between (I think) Valacar and Hallas. So wouldn’t that person (Valacar or Hallas) be forced to drop out too, since through no fault of his own there was no one for him to fight -- same as Ingwion? A consistent application of this principle would ultimately mean there’d be no parma champion -- and indeed the tinca winner (i.e. Glorfindel) would have no one to compete against in the finals, so there would be no overall champion. So why do they do it that way? Or have I misunderstood? I was catching up reading reviews for chapter 117 -- a comment about the elflings’ education during the time they spend with Finrod -- and heard one of the elflings (probably one of the older three), very confused, asking *why* Prince Findaráto called the Lady Melian “Aunt”.... Culinary note: The first time I was going to make cream-of-everything (chicken, mushrooms, celery, sometimes onions) soup with nutmeg (which you had suggested instead of cinnamon on account of the mushrooms), I discovered I didn’t have any nutmeg -- not even in the Very Old moving box! So I used cinnamon, with a dash of cloves for the heck of it: not bad. The next time, I used nutmeg: definitely good. So the third time, I made both kinds, and that confirmed my opinion that both are good. But the nutmeg is a bit better.
Author's reply
With regards to the "Ingwion" problem. Valacar and Hallas would fight their match and the winner of that would fight against one of the tinco-list losers from their seocond round. The winner of that round (round 3) would normally have fought against the winner of the second round from the Ingwion-Vëantur match, but since they would not be competing, that person would "skip" the next round and fight against one of the losers in the third tinco-list round. The parma-list champion actually fights 6 rounds before fighting the tinco-list champion who only fights through 4 rounds before meeting the parma-list chamption. Confusing, I know, but I do have it all mapped out, and as it turns out, the situation with Ingwion didn't arise anyway, so we're okay there. Still, that's a good question and I'm sure others wondered as well. Hmmm.... I'll have to keep that particular elfling question in mind when Finrod takes them to Lórien and introduces them to Lady Melian. I'm sure Finrod's explanation will be... interesting, to say the least. *grin* Thanks for reviewing.
Anonymous · 2 September 2007 · Chapter 111: Tea With Balrogs... er... Sugar
What deviousness is Earwen up to that Finrod accuses her of? How long is this story going to be? How far are you from the end? (Not that I want this to end so soon of course!)
Author's reply
I'm afraid I cannot answer any of your questions. The story will be as long as it is and no longer. I think Finrod is accusing his mother of manipulating them into setting a date for the wedding but not being as blatant about it as Amarië's mother.
Nieriel Raina · 1 September 2007 · Chapter 119: The First Round
LOL! I so love Glorfindel. *chuckles* And I was surprised that Finrod and Ingwion lost their first matches! Why do I suddenly feel like someone unexpected might win the tournament? Maybe not. I hope not. *grin* I really enjoyed this chapter and all the heads you got into. My favorite was Vorondil though, and Námo just can't leave those kids alone, can he? *grin* Wish he'd show up at my house. sighs. *wink* Well, I'm in a rush, got to get this house sold, thus it must be spic and span! But I wanted to review before I got behind again. As always, I am on the edge of my seat waiting for the next chapter! Until then, take care! NiRi
Author's reply
Hi NiRi. I know many people will be surprised that Finrod especially would lose his first match, but that just adds to the tension and excitement and in order for him and Glorfindel to fight one another, one of them had to lose their first match. I decided that Finrod should be the one because given the past few months, I didn't think Glorfindel would handle a loss so early in the tournament quite as well as Finrod would. And making Finrod lose on a trick that Glorfindel taught Ardamirë just makes it less humiliating for the prince. But as Eönwë pointed out earlier, there is no shame attached to losing. And as I mention in another comment, the double-elimination allows for a just manner in which to form the two teams whose champions will ultimately fight each other. Good luck with selling your house. The next chapter will be along soon, I promise.
Anonymous · 1 September 2007 · Chapter 119: The First Round
I loved this chapter! Mostly due to all the action though! I had completely forgot that Aldundil was Vorondil's atar until this chapter. In the last one I thought he was just another random elf. *heh, heh* You definitely suprised me with who won the first round. I had the feeling Glorfindel would win and win he did. Now I am betting he is probably going to win the tournament. Ingwion and Findarato's matches was a bit of a shock. I couldn't believe that Ingwion lost. I was Ingwe there with the suprise. Finrod. Why did Finrod have to lose his match? Is there a purpose that is important to him losing? Is Amarie there at the tournament? If she is it might be a bit embarrassing for her to have her betrothed, who was an exiled Noldor lose the first round. Are her parents there too? I could just imagine Almariel's reaction to the outcome of Finrod's match. Another question, when are you updating next? I am just enthralled by this story. I do hope it is long. Maybe you could write a sequel about GLorfindel's return to Aman after the War of the Ring at the end of the Third Age? That would be cool. If the person goes on to the parma list do they still have a chance of winning the tournament? Is there such a thing as a tie for the tournament or will the last two continue fighting until one is too injured or gives up? Hope to see more soon!
Author's reply
You didn't read the explanation I gave for how a double-elimination tournament is run. The winners of each list ends up fighting each other. Being sent to the parma-list is not an indication of failure. It's just a way of justly creating two "teams". The people within each team compete against each other until there's a final winner in each team. Then those two fight against each other. If the champion of the tinco-list (A-list) wins the match then the tournament ends. If the champion of the parma-list (B-list) wins the match, they have to go another round as it's not fair for the tinco-champion to lose the tournament on his first loss. So the parma-list champion has to win both rounds to win the tournament. As for your other questions, you'll have to wait and see how things work out in future chapters. I will update when I update, but I usually update this tale once a week, so you should have too long a wait between chapters. *grin*
Agape4Gondor · 1 September 2007 · Chapter 119: The First Round
Excellentchatper, Fiondil. It was everything I hoped it would be - Of course, I was routing for a certain Elf in particular... but there's always tomorrow. The fighting was great - the tension was palpable... I loved Vorondil and Ingwe and - well, all of them. Looking forward tot he next round!
Author's reply
Hi Agape. Glad you enjoyed the chapter. You know that Finrod had to lose his first round in order to make it possible for him to compete against Glorfindel in the end, didn't you? *grin* Anyway, I'm glad you liked the fighting and everything. Next round should be coming up soon.
Kitty · 1 September 2007 · Chapter 119: The First Round
Finally the Tournament! *beams* And the way it is scheduled, we will have some more chapters to enjoy it, I think. It’s truly fun. Somehow I was glad that Haldir and Mithlas won in this round; I think a bit of success here will do them and their self-esteem some good. I wonder if Pelendur finally manages to be proud of his son. "I do not think he wants to have to explain to Lord Námo why there is one elf more in Mandos than there should be." *snicker* Good old Eönwë! Truly, I love him more and more. As for Vorondil ... that was a bit worrying. There obviously was a reason why the two Valar took their seats near him. Though I found it touching how much he cared for his atar. And you gave him at least Vëantur to prove his healing abilities ;-) Glorfindel did teach Ardamirë the trick that defeated Finrod? You’re wicked, you know! Well, at least their antics disposed with any tension in the wake of Finrod’s defeat *lol* And I am pleased Finrod and Glorfindel now are competing in different halves of the field – I think it ensures an interesting finale (yes, I take it for granted these two will be the last ones standing, so to speak) Can't wait for the next chapters!
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. Glad you are liking the tournament. Mapping it out has been a nightmare, but fun in it's own way. I had to come up with several new OCs to act as fighters and wasn't that fun! Anyway, even if everyone takes for granted that Finrod and Glorfdinel will end up fighting each other, the details of how that happens will hopefully be a surprise and make reading about the tournament enjoyable. And of course I'm wicked! I'm the author, after all. *LOL*
jwdisney · 1 September 2007 · Chapter 119: The First Round
Thanks so much for such a wonderful description of the tournament. Glorfindel's trick was priceless, and I really enjoy the kings' commentary!
Author's reply
You're welcome. I'm glad you enjoyed the first round of the tournament. I hope I can keep up the momentum — five days is a long time. *grin*
eiluj · 31 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
Welcome back from all you travelling, and thanks for posting along the way. A question: are any of the (sword) fighters competing in the archery contest? I’m wondering about Aldarion in particular, since he’s so skilled with the bow. And is Laurendil competing in the archery contest? Any others we know? I don’t envy you having had to figure out all the matches in the tourney -- did you begin with the overall winner and work backwards? I note that the winner of the previous Vanyamar tournament is not competing in this one. Somehow, despite having grown up watching “Wide World of Sports” and reading SI (because my dad was a sports fan and I read everything in the house), I had never known exactly how a double-elimination tournament works. So your explanation was clear, because now I understand what it is. If the Valar are going to hang out at the tournament all week, I don’t see how the Bad Guys can make trouble ... yes, I am still fixated on Bad Guys making trouble at the tournament! Well, I’ve been wrong before. I enjoyed having the Valar’s clothing described; I had really felt the lack (not complete lack, but relative lack) of clothing descriptions in the past few chapters, particularly at the ball! Ah, the Finrod-Ingwion repartee.... Eönwë introduces the sixteen fighters “in the order in which they shall compete.” -- Perhaps I’m misinterpreting, but the order in which he introduces them *doesn’t* seem to be the same order in which they’re scheduled to fight. The first four matches seem to be between the odd-numbered pairs of fighters (according to the order in which Eönwë introduced them), rather than the first four pairs. I like your definition of “snood” as “a medieval hairnet.” I remember how puzzling it was the first few times I ran across it in historical fiction and folklore as a child -- the brief in-text descriptions were hopelessly inadequate, and contradictory enough that after four decades I still remember my confusion. It was clearly something women wore on their heads, but beyond that --! When I saw SCA friends crocheting and tatting snoods, I was quite surprised that they turned out to be hairnets.
Author's reply
I haven't decided if any of the sword fighters are competing in the archey contest as I haven't plotted that part of the tournament out yet. Just figuring out who is fightimg whom was hard enough. No, I did not work backwards. I assigned each of the major characters (canon and OC) who were fighting an OC character against as their opponent. I then determined that Finrod would lose his first match and therefore be placed in the parma-list. Then I just arbitraryily assigned who was the winner and who was the loser of each match so that eventually I would have the two champions. However, I still don't know who will win the final match, nor will I say here who the two champtions will be, though I'm pretty sure you can guess. *grin* I think Eönwë merely meant to introduce each pair of fighters in the order of their assigned numhers, not necessarily the order in which they would be fighting, which wouldn't be up to him anyway. The assigning of number was probably done by lot and this is the order that came up. I knew that many readers would not understand how a double-elimination tournament works, hence the explanation. I'm glad that it was clear enough. I tried to explain it in such a ways as not to insult the intelligence of anyone who actually knew what a double-elimination tournament is. With the snoods, I was familiar with what they were, having seen them in the SCA as well, but I never learned what they were called and had to as a Scadian friend of mine when I was writing this chapter.
MJ · 29 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
Enjoyable once again, Fiondil (I just returned from vacation, myself. Not quite so exotic, but relaxing). I can see you're showing off your sewing skills :). One thing I've been meaning to ask: what source are you using for the gemstone lore? I'm familiar with several sources of flower lore, but not so many for gems and stones. I was happy to see Namo get a chance to expand his wardrobe repertoire! All the Valar (and Maiar) should get a chance to get out of their "work clothes" once in a while. :)
Author's reply
My primary source on gemstone lore is Emily's Gemstones at crystal-cure.com. I have it under my Favorites for obvious reasons. I was happy to "dress" Námo in something other than black or grey for a change. And you're right... it is nice to see the Valar in "civies" for a change. *lol*
Nieriel Raina · 27 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
I LOVED THIS CHAPTER! And Wow...Námo in green. *gets fazed look, eyes glaze, silly smile slides into place* *grins sheepishly* Wonderfully done! I so much love the description of the clothing! I know some would say such details are too much, but you do it so well, I can see it all clearly! All the Valar were dressed so splendidly (I MUST speak to them about their tailors. I could use a new outfit or two for the Renaissance Faire) but yes, Náma and Vairë stood out. Still love him in black, would love to see him in midnight blue, but the dark green works great as well. I would so love to play in his wardrobe! And I don't obsess over clothing! *grin* The opening of the tournament just drew me right in and coinciding with our Ren Faire opening was magnificent! I could see all the warriors and feel the excitement and awe when the Valar showed up. And Eonwë! Mighty sexy maiar you've got there. I adored him when Glorfindel renewed his vows, laughed wickedly when he joined in beating Glorfindel to a pulp, snickered as he showed up to write down Almariel's oaths, but THIS! We get to see him in all his glory doing what he does best! *bows* You are brilliant, has anyone told you that yet? Finrod's words to those from Endorë just made this chapter, reminding us of the danger of these elves. And Ingwion's needing a translation...*grins* If I didn't already have tabs on Glorfindel, I think I might ask for him. I'll keep my snuggable Balrog slayer though. Great chapter! I hang on the edge of my seat waiting for each update! NiRi Now for my complaints! I only have two. 1st, I want illustrations! *smile* I wish one of the artists would draw the Valar, especially Námo and Vairë in all their finery. And 2nd, it was too short! I want to see the tournament!
Author's reply
I have dressed Námo in midnight blue elsewhere in one of my other stories. You'll just have to go look. *grin* I'm glad you like Eönwë in this chapter. I had someone complain that I hadn't written him into the story, never realizing that I had in fact done so, only the chapter (where Glorfindel renews his oath) was not yet posted. I hope that person continued reading the story and read that chapter (an the subsequent ones with Eönwë). I am having fun with him, more so than I thought I would. Finrod's words to the Tol Eressëans were probably necessary. These elves have fought for centuries against Morgoth and Sauron and the legions of orcs and other nasties, so they have to be reminded that the tournament is for fun, not to be taken seriously. They are indeed among friends. And of course, Ingwion, and the other Amanians, would need a translation, not understanding Sindarin. I'm sure Ingwion will rectify that lack in his education at the first opportunity, if, as Námo's apprentice, he has already been told to do so. As for your complaints: I wish one of the artists reading this story WOULD draw the Valar and anyone else that catches their imagination. I can't draw, but I can see these characters and scenes so vividly in my mind. It's very frustrating. And this chapter is merely an introduction to the rest of the tournatment, a teaser, you might say, so it is short, or rather, it's just long enough.
Nieriel Raina · 27 August 2007 · Chapter 117: All Elflings Great and Small
Wow, I'm behind again! I hope you had a wonderful trip! I had such wonderful intentions of catching up while you were away, and then real life made sure I couldn't. Anyways, I have made it thru the whole story again (I have most of it printed out and I read at work during the slow times), and I liked all the past, oh, thirty or something chapters read straight thru. I didn't realize the short time frame, but that happens with a WIP sometimes. Which is why I love going back and rereading thru to where we are. I'm babbling. Sorry. *grin* I love this story! I cannot say it enough. Now, this chapter! I am really impressed by how you weave the romance between Finrod and Amarië into the story. It is just enough (since the story overall is not a romance) to keep us enthralled with their growing relationship without becoming overbearing to the rest of the story, if that makes sense. I have to say though, that if you ever decided to write a straight romance, I think you are very gifted in that area. Few authors can capture a love story like you do. *applause* It's sweet to see them acting like elves in love. Vorondil's jealousy was understandable, but I think young Veryandur will be good for him. I just love how Finrod handles the elflings (and Glorfindel or anyone else who needs some good chastiesment and instruction in maturity). Lindorillë's assumptions and words to Eruanna were disturbing and I am glad Finrod will be taking these children under his wing for a while. Her question brought up a topic for me, for few insinuate such could take place among the elves. I've even recently been called out and reprimanded for having Legolas swear! "Elves do not swear!" And I rolled my eyes and thought of such brilliant authors as yourself and many others who have their elves swear or curse and I wonder if you have run into this sentiment? And along with it, the presumptions of this child, along with the frequent references to propriety, even the cute looks between Finrod and Alassiel when she was learning about armor, make me wonder, were the elves capable of such impropriety? I mean, such acts, um... well, with elves it binds them in marriage! I'm babbling again, but I can't help wondering your thoughts on the matter, for I just love your elves. They are so real, and feel so much like the elves of the Silmarillion (I just made it thru that for the 5th time! thanks to you again for opening my eyes to such a marvellous work) I like the elves having emotions, and temptations, and swearing enough to make a Vala... they don't really blush do they? Doesn't faze them one bit. *grins* Which is why I love your portrayal of the Valar as well. Moving on! The meeting with the parents was very nice. Though the older chidren's parents disturb me some. It was just sad. I am glad those elflings will be in good hands! And I'm sure the older three will do well under Arafinwe's care. Great chapter! Let's see if I can review the other and read your update before I have to crash! It's dark over here after all... *grin* NiRi
Author's reply
Thanks for your compliments about my romance writing abilities. *grin* Veryandur should prove very good for Vorondil even for the short time they are together. Vorondil needs to feel needed and being given important tasks and helping to take care of Veryandur and Eruanna will fulfill that need in him. Lindorillë's words to Eruanna are very disturbing and it shows how much mistrust there still is among the Amanians towards the Noldor who left Aman under such a cloud. While not every Noldo was guilty of Kinslaying and such, in the minds of many Amanians, they are all guilty by association. Rather unfair, but a typcial reaction even among humans. And even though no sane elf would ever countenance such actions towards another, obviously those who committed kinslaying were not sane and who knows what other atrocities they may have committed even if Tolkien never explicitly tells us. Since Tolkien tells us that the elves are humans as they were meant to be: unfallen, it stands to reason that they will have the same emotions and needs as we do. Making them devoid of certain emotions simnply makes them unhuman and therefore uninteresting as characters. Of course, elves swear. Do you think someone like Finrod would have said, "Golly gee willikers, but that Morgoth sure is a meany" when the Dagor Bragollach fell upon the elves so unexpectedly? I don't think so. I haven't run into the "evles do not swear, etc." camp but then most of my readers and reviewers are too intelligent to fall into that trap. *lol* I think Eruanna and Veryandur's parents are the right sort and it's just unfortunate that these two elflings fell in with the "wrong" crowd. The three older elflings are going to need serious re-education, I think, but Finrod and Arafinwë should do well by them and the others will help as well.
Kitty · 26 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
Welcome back, and I hope you had a wonderful time! This update was a nice surprise, as I was resigned to the fact that you’ll not update until September :-) It’s not surprising some of the Vanyar decided not to compete – it has to be rather intimidating to face these competent warriors from Middle-earth. Finrod’s reminder that they’re facing *friends* and not *orcs* wasn’t without reason, I think. Loved Ingwion's reaction to it! *grin* Now we got to see Námo in his new green outfit – thank you! He’s looking stunning – and I am sure the green is much better than black :-) And all these Valar in their finery are a sight to behold. "Well, with Glorfindel, Findaráto and Ingwion all playing, I have no doubt of that," Here I completely agree with Manwë! And now you’ve me wondering if there’s truly any connection between the Fëanturi’s choice of seat and Vorondil ... though I still hope Vorondil will not have too much to do ;-) Somehow the space within the gallery expanded to accommodate them without disturbing the physical structure of the gallery itself. How very useful! A pity we’re not able to do the same – it would be so much easier to fit all our things in our houses and appartments, wouldn’t it? Anyway, I look truly forward to the next chapters!
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. Yes, I had a marvelous time, but it's good to be back home where I left my laptop. *lol* This particular chapter was written long before I went on holiday, I merely delayed posting it until the end of my tour. Anyway, I'm glad you liked the Lord of Mandos' new outfit. I think he looks rather stunning in it myself, though I know he's rather partial to black and grey. After all, he has an image to maintain, doesn't he? *grin* The ability to occupy space without taking up any room is of course something that all spiritually created beings are capable of doing (just think about Thomas Aquinas' question about how many angels could dance on the head of a pin). It is, of course, a very useful ability, one that I wish I had everytime I have to pack for a trip. *grin* New chapters will be forthcoming, never fear.
Tira · 25 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
can I have Vairë's clothes? I reallywant them... wonderful chapter! I literally squealed (earning some strange looks) when I saw the email with the update notice. La, I love how Finrod felt the need to remind his people they were among friends...and Gloorfindel's eyeroll...
Author's reply
I'm afraid you'll have to ask Vaire about the clothes. Maybe she'll lend them to you. *grin* I think Finrod reminded his people deliberately and in Sindarin simply to evoke the reaction that he got from Ingwion and the other Amanian elves as a way of relieving the pre-tourney jitters they were probably all feeling, hence Glorfindel's eyeroll.
Agape4Gondor · 25 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
I loved the rules - thanks for giving them to your readers so we are prepared. I am MOST excited about this tournament - not only because you and your characters have been focusing on it for quite sometime, but because it will be awesome to see Finrod and Glorfindel doing battle for sport and not for life and death.... *shivers* It's great to have the Valar in attendance and I liked that Manwe officially sanctioned the event by asking that his own Herald officiate! I wonder why you used the Anar instead of Anor (professional curiosity)? Great chapter - can't wait for the tournament to begin! Five days! Wow...
Author's reply
Hi Agape, glad you liked the chapter. The rules are fairly standard double-elimination rules used in sports and in SCA tourneys, but I knew that many readers would be unfamiliar with them, so I presented them here. There were actually a couple of different ways I could have planned the tournament, but this way suited my purposes best. "Anar" is the Quenya version of "Anor", which is why I use it here where Quenya is the "official" language of Aman. I only use Sindarin terms when the character is someone whose native language is Sindarin rather than Quenya. BTW, I did find the typo you told me about and it's been fixed. Thanks.
hanci · 25 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
I'm really curious about the tournament, hope you are full of ideas after your holiday (which I hope went well). And glad to see you move from stones to flowers also, it's very informative (although I need to consult dictionary first to know which flower you mean; the stones I know). And by strawberries you mean blooms or fruit? Were I wearing a crown of fruit it wouldn't last long. :o) But then, they ARE Valar, they probably could resist.
Author's reply
Wirh regards to the strawberries, I suspect that it's a combination of flowers and fruits that they are wearing. I know that *I* wouldn't be able to resist the fruit for long either, but as you say, these ARE Valar, so they probably have greater will power. *lol*
Anonymous · 24 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
I am so glad you have updated. Are you back officially or not, because this chapter has only made me more impatient for more. I did like the descriptions you gave to the garments of the Valar and Valier. So that was what the green fabric was for! It must have really suprised the elves to find the lord of the houses of the dead wearing green, a color often used for youth and life, not his usual black or gray. Well, great job!
Author's reply
I am semi-officially back. I am in Beijing for a couple of more days and decided to post this chapter before returning home, just so I would have reviews waiting for me when I got there. *grin* Well, Namo's garb is a very dark green, so it's not as "youthful" or "life-giving" as a lighter green would be. The black velvet trim and sheared sable fur would also make the green more solemn and sober looking. Still, it is a definite change from the ususal grey and black we often associate with the Lord of Mandos.
Beruthiels Cat · 24 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
Great chapter, Fiondil! Are you officially back, or are you posting from the road? Can't even get away from the muse for two weeks without being followed...*grins* Am wondering what kind of comments/compliments Námo and Vairë are going to receive from the others who knew about her little shopping trip, lol...and of course the splended couple would save their new threads for a special occasion! Let the games begin~ BC
Author's reply
I'm posting from the road but I'll be back in Tai'an on Monday. While on the road my muse and I have been very busy in a relaxed way, with two chapters each written for Stirrings of Shadow and The Wars of the Valar. Several chapters of Elf Interrupted were beta-read while I've been away and only await editing before being posted. Glad you liked the chapter and Namo and Vaire's new threads.
Radbooks · 24 August 2007 · Chapter 118: The Tournament Begins
What perfect timing! Just tonight I finished re-reading the story and here came the notice for this chapter. I hope that your trip went well and that you're settled in now. I hadn't considered how long it would take for the tournament but of course it would take many days since they'll need to rest between bouts. It's like a big festival or faire I suppose and spreading it out will only make it more fun - at least for the readers. I wasn't surprised that the elves of Aman dropped out once they saw the elves from Tol Eressea, facing battle hardened warriors would be tough. The arrival of the Valar was quite... interesting. :) I was intrigued to see that they could make themselves appear smaller when normally they appear to so dominate an area. But then they are who they are and can change at will, can't they? I loved Finrod's reminded to his warriors! That made me laugh, but it was probably needed. Very enjoyable and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens in the tournament itself.
Author's reply
Actually, I'm still traveling, though the tour itself ended on Friday. Now, I'm merely relaxing here in Beijing for a couple of days before returning to Ta'an on Monday. Then I'll be settled. With a double elimination tournament, it would take longer to complete than a single elimination tournament, and drawing it out for five days gives me more space for exploring certain themes and developing certain plotlines. I'm not even sure how many chapters the tournament will take. I've written five chapters (this one being the first) and have only covered the first day of the tournament! Considering that no one had planned for the Valar to show up, it was only fair that they provide their own seats without distrupting the architecture of the lists. *lol* Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter and are looking forward to the rest of the tournament. I promise it should be very interesting on many levels.
Kitty · 16 August 2007 · Chapter 117: All Elflings Great and Small
Vorondil is already putting to good use what he learned from Finrod, isn’t he? It’s sweet he played at camping with Veryandur. And I am glad to know he’s finally able to join the banter. Some months earlier he’d certainly not dared to ask Finrod to break something *grin* Helping in caring for these younger elflings will do Vorondil some good, too, I think, as the added responsibility is good for his self-esteem. All in all ... I think Veryandur and Eruanna will do well; they seem to have not only the more sensible parents, but they themselves are not as corrupted as the three older elflings. I was so glad their parents were nice and brought them the toys and that Eruanna told them so excitedly about her time in Finrod’s and the other’s care. Ormendil’s parents, on the other hand, left me rather angry. Their son needs them so badly just now, but they didn’t prove any consolation at all. The other two have at least each other. As for the other elflings, I’m not favourably impressed by them and truly curious how they will fare. They have a far longer way ahead of them to overcome the distrust and prejudice they’ve learned from their parents. To talk about *this* sort of plaything ... *shakes head* Somehow I get the feeling they have to change the parents as well. Enjoy your time away from update-greedy readers and have a wonderful holiday!
Author's reply
Yes, Vorondil has come a long way from the miserable piece of work he was when we first met him. Finrod has obviously been a good influence on him. I think he will be a great help with Veryandur and Eruanna, as well. Unfortunately, the older elflings have indeed been tainted by their parents' prejudices and it will take longer to "convert" them, but I have no doubt that between Arafinwe and Finrod, they will eventually come around. Whether they will be able to re-educate their parents is another matter altogether. Anyway, I hardly think about you update-greedy readers at all, at all! *grin*
lilandriel · 16 August 2007 · Chapter 117: All Elflings Great and Small
awesome! i've loved this right from the start! i hope you have a fantastic trip, and i look forward to reading more in September xx
Author's reply
Thanks, Lilandriel. I'm happy to know you've been enjoying this tale all along. And so far I'm having a great time on my trip. I'm writing this from the ancient city (and China's first capital) of Xi'an. Tomorrow we go to see the Terracotta Warriors, the hightlight (for me) of the entire trip.
Beruthiels Cat · 15 August 2007 · Chapter 117: All Elflings Great and Small
Bummer! I'm going into withdrawal already, lol...have fun on your tour~great chapter! BC
Author's reply
Well, you can always re-read the story from the beginning while I'm away. *grin*
Hildigrim · 14 August 2007 · Chapter 115: A Meeting With Parents
I was also disturbed by Chapters 112, 113, and 115 upon first reading them, but I decided to postpone comment and ponder the story further. It was immediately clear that the punishment Finrod imposes seemed disproportionate to the younglings' crime -- a point I think Redpike makes implicitly in her prior review within her "tooth and nail" comment. However, on reflection I want to pose a harder-edged question. Why does Finrod's ordering the bearing of swords against the young trespassers in Chapter 112 not violate the Peace of Valinor? (A tournament passage at arms is presumptively consensual; this hunting with swords was not.) Moreover, why is this not exacerbated by Finrod apparently requiring Laurendil to renege on the latter's foreswearing of arms? I suppose Ingwe may cede his sovereignty over Finrod's camp in deference to a fellow king, but the Peace derives from the authority of the Valar. Having framed the argument above, I re-read Ingwe's recollection of Manwe's words in Chapter 112: "In time, those who are now living on Tol Eressëa will be imbued with our Peace. Already, those who arrived in the early years of this age have been... purged, let us say, of much of the darkness their lives entailed. They are learning to live in a land of peace without the constant need for vigilance against evil." The children appear to be paying the price of Finrod not yet having learned to do so.
Author's reply
You are confusing the Peace of the Valar with the proper bearing of arms. Even in Aman there are guards and warriors and even among the Maiar there are warriors. Swords, in and of themselves, are not forbidden, but rather the improper use of them to foment unrest the way Feanor did when he threatened Fingolfin, which deed got him exiled. Besides, if you read chapters 112 and 113 carefully, the Tol Eresseans and Finrod are engaged in mock-serious activities. They know these are elflings and have no intention of harming them, but they do want to teach them a lesson they won't forget (and have fun doing it as we see when the warriors race to don their armor to form an honor guard for Finrod "court"). As for the conversation between Finrod and Laurendil... Finrod is reminding Laurendil that his Life Oath will sometimes require him to put aside lesser oaths. Finrod is reminding Laurendil that Laurendil's alliegance to him takes precedence even to his alliegance to Irmo. This is an aspect of the Life Oath that so worries Ingwe and with good reason, but the full implications of what this means for the future of Aman are not known even to the Valar. Also, keep in mind that we are imposing our 21st century human mores on nonhumans of an earlier age who would not necessarily play by our rules. While *we* may fight tooth and nail if someone tried to take our children from us even for a short period of time, these are elves and the High King has given his approval. They have no concept of child abuse and it would never occur to them to think that such a thing might happen to their children among strangers. That's why Lindorille's insinuations that Finrod might use Eruanna as a sexual plaything was so shocking, even to a youngster like Vorondil. It is something that no sane elf would contemplate (as opposed to the insane elves who committed kinslaying and who knows what else in pursuit of the silmarils). Finrod, unlike the Tol Eressean elves, has been purged of darkness. That is what his time in Mandos entailed. However, he is a king and even Ingwe would have acted similarly had it been his encampment that was being "invaded". I'm sorry these chapters disturb you, but try not to take them too literally or seriously. No harm will come to any of the children and while in Finrod's service they may learn a thing or two to their benefit and the benefit of future generations of Amanaians who need to accept the Reborn and the Returnees in order for the Peace of the Valar to really take hold among all the elves.
Anonymous · 14 August 2007 · Chapter 117: All Elflings Great and Small
This is great! I am taking it that the tournament will be in the next chapter if I am correct?! Eruanna sounds so sweet and adorable with her questions! EX. "'Is Lord Findarato married? Does he have any ellith to play with?...'" *She is so sweet!* Alassiel and Vorondil have greatly matured from the first time we met them, and it looks as though Vorondil is thinking of Finrod as his father-figure while he is away from his real father. I was a bit shocked when they said they put frogs in Amarie's bed! When did that happen? Why would Finrod even participate if he was her betrothed? I did like when Veryandur's and Eruanna's parents gave them each a toy to play with. That was very thoughtful of them!
Author's reply
You're correct about the next chapter(s) describing the tournament. As for Finrod and the frogs... Finrod, Glorfindel, Sador... three adolescent ellyn and frogs... add one elleth and you have the perfect combination for fun and foolery. *grin*
Tira · 14 August 2007 · Chapter 117: All Elflings Great and Small
ack!! at least THIS wasn't a terrible cliffie, like in stirrings...poor tykes. i feel for them. and again, enjoy your tour thingie...
Author's reply
Thanks, Tira. Right now I'm in Shanghai and tomorrow we go to Suzhou. I wouldn't worry too much for the tykes. You know Finrod and Arafinwe will treat them gently and with great love.