Tari
· 23 May 2008
· Chapter 142: Songs of Power and Glory
I just about had a heart attach reading this. I was so afraid something tragic was going to happen. I should have known the Valar would find someway to intercede and save the two ellon from destruction. Did Ingwe have a premonition that something bad was going to happen?
I shall now proceed to Part II.
Thanks for an absolutely glorious journey. I have to add that I loved your replies. I think we are on the same page where Elves are concerned.
Tari
Author's reply
Glad you had a great time reading this. I'm not sure if Ingwë had a premonition or not. I think he simply realized that he should always be careful about what he wished for. *grin* I hope you like Book Two as much as you've enjoyed Book One. Thanks for reviewing.
Tari
· 21 May 2008
· Chapter 138: The Reborn Archer's Tale
I will definetely be reading Part II when I finish this one. In fact, I plan to read all of your stories.
Tari
Author's reply
Good for you. I'm glad and don't forget to review. *grin*
Tari
· 21 May 2008
· Chapter 138: The Reborn Archer's Tale
There was no one to greet Beleg when he left the Halls of Mandos. That’s awful.
But finding family at the tournament had to be such a relief to him as it was to me. I felt so bad for the poor elf. I hated to think of him all alone.
Sometimes the elves remind me of men. Staring at Beleg was not very nice.
Beleg’s parentage might be noncanonical, but I love it anyway.
Great chapter.
Author's reply
Well we are never told anything about Beleg, not even the color of his hair, so I figure his backstory would be up for grabs. Besides, he is deep in Thingol's councils and he can come and go as he pleases for the most part. I figure he had to be related somehow. *grin*
Even though there was no one specifically there to greet Beleg, he was never really alone. The Valar were ever looking out for him and they placed him with someone who would be sympathetic and understanding until he could be reunited with Finrod, Glorfindel and his uncle.
I'm sure it was difficult for the elves NOT to stare at a legend come to life, especially one who had died so tragically, at the hands of a friend.
Tari
· 21 May 2008
· Chapter 137: Recognition
Oh my gosh!!! I am so excited. I almost jumped up and down in my chair when I saw Beleg’s name. He is one of my most favorite of the elves along with Legolas and Glorfindel. I always tear up when reading about him in the Silmarillion. I’m so glad you brought him into your story. What a beautiful ending to the tournament.
Author's reply
Well the tournament's not over yet! *grin* but thanks. Beleg has always been one of my favorites too, so I just had to bring him into the story. He will play an important role in Book Two.
Tari
· 20 May 2008
· Chapter 135: A Brief Respite
The results of the trial were what I hoped they would be. Poor Vorondil had enough heartache in his short life. Time alone with his father away from everyone else is just what he needs. Veryandur giving his stuffed animal to Vorondir was absolutely precious.
How anything will help Calalindale I’m sure I don’t know. She’s a real piece of work.
Finrod shines again. He is not only maturing, but is becoming much wiser. Getting Ingwion to sleep in a tree sounds like a good idea to me.
Tari
Author's reply
Vorondil and Aldundil do need time alone together and we will see how that goes in Book Two (incdentive to keep reading *grin*). What will happen to Calalindalë is debatable and much depends on her. Finrod, of course, has reached the same level of maturity he enjoyed at the time of his death, so he is a king in truth rather than just in name.
Tari
· 19 May 2008
· Chapter 132: Confessions and Confrontations
Sedation is not good enough for Calallindale. A good swift kick in the backside would be a start. She’s despicable.
Poor Laurendil. If I were he, I would head for the hills so to speak and hide. When several mischievous Elves get together, who knows what might happen.
Author's reply
Calalindalë is a real piece of work, that's for sure. Laurendil... well, what can I say? He's just too good to run and hide. *grin*
Soledad
· 19 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Here At the End of All Things
Finally found my way to this tale - took me some time, but, well, better late than never, right? It will be interesting to read about a Glorfindel who's so much younger than in my interpretation.
I like your image of Námo. Looking forward how the other Valar will present themselves.
Author's reply
Hi Soldedad. I'm glad you finally found this. It's never too late to read about Glorfindel! Each of the Valar will be featured over the course of the tale to one degree or another. I'm glad you like my image of Námo. He's my favorite Vala so I enjoy writing about him. Have fun reading and thanks for reviewing.
Tari
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 131: An Afternoon of Shame and Glory
Aldarion was like s soothing elixir to Turindil. That simple act of kindness, made without conscious thought will help in Turindil’s healing. I love the song Turindil sang.
Ingwë showed great sensitivity in learning the song in Sindarin. What a breath of fresh air it must have been in such a tense situation.
The tournament itself amazed me. It was so intricate. Did you get the idea from Ryselle who seems to be quite knowledgeable about these things? Do you think she (?) could help me with training tactics for my story?
Tari
Author's reply
Yes, Aldarion is a good friend and will be very helpful to Turinidil and Ingwë isn't High King of All the Elves for nothing. *grin* While Rhyselle and I discussed ways of doing the tournament, all the elements of the tournament, both the sword and shield and the archery, are my own design. *grin* You can ask her about helping you with training tactics for your story; the worst she will say is "no".
Tari
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 130: Turindil
Being reborn seems way too hard. I am certainly glad we don't have to go through it. It will be most interesting to see what happens when Turindil and Glorfindel finally meet.
Tari
Author's reply
Well they say that resurrection is hard too so we'll have to see.
Tari
· 15 May 2008
· Chapter 129: A Talk With Tulkas
This is the first time you brought Tulkas into this story and I'm so glad you did. He is really cool and I love his sense of humor. One more chink in Finrod's healing.
Tari
Author's reply
Part of the challenge (for myself) in writing this tale was to bring each of the fourteen Valar into the story at some point. Tulkas seemed to be the best one to handle Finrod at this juncture so I let him. *grin* And Finrod is indeed further along in his healing.
Tari
· 14 May 2008
· Chapter 127: Table Talk
The sight of Valar and king serving food and washing dishes had to be mind boggling to the elves. They did not feel they were too superior to perform such menial tasks. But, what better way to win the trust and respect of the elves. Even the elflings are coming around. I found myself wanting to join them around the campfire. I love campfires.
Author's reply
The sight of Valar and king serving food and washing dishes had to be mind boggling to the elves.
Especially for the elves from Middle-earth who had never interacted with the Valar (or Maiar) and whose kings (even Finrod at the time) probably would never have thought to do anything so menial. A lesson for all of them (and us).
I love campfires too!
Tari
· 13 May 2008
· Chapter 124: Day Two
I love the way your story flows and the way you bring a bit of intrigue into it at different places. I have thoroughly enjoyed the last couple of chapters, but the one thing that really made me chuckle was the thought of Lord Namo changing the locks to keep the hoard of Elves out should they be killed. As I said before, the Valar are so much fun. Maybe we’ll get to meet them someday. You think?
Tari
Author's reply
Hi Tari. I'm glad you have been enjoying the last few chapters. The tournament was a lot of fun to write, not just the matches but the intrigue that was going on as well, and it only continues. It would be nice if we got a chance to meet the Valar (nice, but scary).
Tari
· 12 May 2008
· Chapter 120: Interlude with Elflings
I really am enjoying this tournament. Finrod took his defeat with grace as befits a prince.
Just how old are the five elflings? Euranna reminds me of a two year old, but no child that young would be able to do the work she is doing. Perhaps their punishment will have more benefits than the original purpose. Getting along with others who seem different is a most important lesson to learn.
Tari
Author's reply
In human terms the elflings range in age from 9 (Veryandur) to 12 (sorondil). Glad you are enjoying the turnament and it's only the first day. More to come. Finrod is in a class all to himself, IMO. *grin*
Tari
· 7 May 2008
· Chapter 115: A Meeting With Parents
Sounds like Finrod is running a nursery. (chuckles)
Tari
Author's reply
Nanny Finrod to the rescue! LOL
Tari
· 7 May 2008
· Chapter 114: Reconciliation
Ingwë is an example of a true leader and King. Not everyone would have been able to admit they were wrong, much less humble themselves before their subjects. What a beautiful picture this chapter painted. I'm sure it helped Glorfindel make a giant step on the road to recovery.
Tari
Author's reply
Ingwë truly shines here and I think his actions will go a long way in helping Glorfindel recover. If only our own real-world leaders could show such humility. *sigh*
Tari
· 5 May 2008
· Chapter 112: Dinner and Diversion
Well, they certainly know how to eat. The food sounded wonderful, but my stomach hurt just reading about it. I could never eat that much.
I am most interested in finding out what happens to the mischievous elflings. They are in deep trouble. I couldn't help chuckling though because I know they will suffer no harm. I’ll bet they will not be to anxious to go on another adventure any time soon.
Tari
Author's reply
Well the menu was carefully selected and unlike modern times of fast food and TV dinners, such a dinner would have gone on for a couple of hours with time between courses for the food to settle. The key was never to eat too much of any one thing, but simply 'taste' each dish, leaving room for more. Something I learned early on at SCA events. *grin*
The children, while they're about to get a good scare that will cure them of their need for adventure for a while, will come to no real harm and will in fact benefit from it as you will see.
Tari
· 2 May 2008
· Chapter 111: Tea With Balrogs... er... Sugar
Those imps. I can’t wait to find out what Lady Almáriel’s reaction will be. I'm sure she not used to having her plans thwarted. What ever happens will be just what she deserves. She needs to be taken down a peg or two.
Three cheers to the brothers.
Tari
Tari
· 30 April 2008
· Chapter 109: Further Conversations With the Elder King
Vorondil is absolutely precious. He reminds me of a six year old. As for the Valar; they are delightful. This chapter was so much fun to read. I, too, giggled at Vorondil’s predicament.
This is what I call ruling with a gentle hand. Sador also being on the receiving end. The poor child has had a rough time, but as the Valar feel, I think he is doing a great job of recovering.
Tari
Author's reply
Yes, Vorondil is pretty much like a six-year-old, at least emotionally, after his Judgment, and he just seems to attract trouble wherever he goes. *grin*
The Valar, as I depict them, for all their faults, and they do have them, love the Children dearly and want to be more like elder brothers and sisters rather than authoritarians to them, hence the gentle hand treatment of those who truly are children in every sense of the word: Vorondil and Sador. For all that Sador is technically an adult, he is still feeling his way towards maturity, but he is indeed doing a great job of recovering and the Valar know this and treat him accordingly, even if they do have to reprimand him a little.
Tari
· 28 April 2008
· Chapter 104: Camping Out
Alassiel has certainly come a long way and learns quickly. I think she will make a fine elleth some day. Being able to judge a person on an individual basis is an absolute. I feel she is finally able to do this.
Vorondil is absolutely precious. Perhaps I shouldn’t say that about an ellon but I can’t help it, he is. I am so enjoying him.
Tari
Author's reply
Both Alassiel and Vorondil have come a long way from where we first met them and both will eventually under Finrod's patient tutelage become assets to their society instead of thinking the world owes them a favor. And I think Vorondil is absolutely precious, too, so it's alright to say that. I'm glad you are enjoying him. Thanks for reviewing.
Tari
· 25 April 2008
· Chapter 100: Míriel and the High King
All I can say about Miriel is, “what a woman”. She is a real spitfire and is not afraid to speak her mind, even to the High King. I love it. I should have known Glorifindel would figure out what was going on even if I didn’t.
Reading is such fun. (This is what I do when I have free time at work. I have a really wonderful boss.)
Tari
Author's reply
Míriel is a real hoot, as they used to say, and I really enjoyed writing her and her husband. I think Ingwë should take his own advice and put her on his privy counsel. *grin*
I'm glad you have such a wonderful boss who lets you read these stories while at work and I'm glad you are finding reading this story so much fun. Thanks for letting me know.
Tari
· 25 April 2008
· Chapter 99: End-game
You got me. It never entered my mind that Ingwë was using Glorfindel as a pawn to catch the malcontents. I’ll bet you are having a lot of fun reading peoples reactions. You do keep us on our toes. I find myself wanting to jump into the story to save the poor Elf even though I know he'll be fine.
Tari
P.S. How do you find the time, etc. to write three stories at one time? I can barely handle one.
Author's reply
I think a lot of people got thrown by Ingwë's actions and motivations, so don't feel bad.
As for how I find the time to write FOUR stories (count them) at one time? It helps that I only work 15 hours but get paid full-time, so I have plenty of free time for writing.
Tari
· 24 April 2008
· Chapter 97: Fallout
This just goes to show what can happen if you cross a female. Tehehehehe!. If course it also shows that we do not always consider the repercussions
Just thinking about Glorfindel makes me very sad. The poor ellon.
Tari
Author's reply
Glorfindel is still young enough emotionally that he does not always remember that there are consequences to his actions, so this will be a learning experience for him, and others. And Ingwë is probably more aware of the repercussions than most people around him (including the Valar) are giving him credit for.
Tari
· 23 April 2008
· Chapter 94: Vanda Envinyanta
Glorfindel is certainly having a difficult time. He seems to have a lot of demons to exorcize.
I do hope he will be able to teach the proper use of the sword. Who better could they learn from? I must say, though, the elves seem to do an awful lot of blusing. I used to have that problem until I learned to control it. Sometimes it still rears it's ugly head.
The Maia calling him "sword-brother" is a nice touch.
Tari
Author's reply
Yes, Glorfindel has many demons to exorcize. He will be an excellent teacher of the sword which will help him when he is Captain of the Guard at Imladris and has to teach the sons of Elrond how to properly wield one. As for the blushing... well, Glorfindel is still emotionally young so he's allowed. *grin* In spite of that, the Maiar take him seriously and respect his talents as a warrior, hence they have no problems referring to him as "sword-brother".
Tari
· 22 April 2008
· Chapter 93: Lessons
I wouldn't say Ingwë is devious, but rather quite wise. This should be one more step toward Glorfindel's healing, and a huge one at that.
Tari
Author's reply
Hopefully that will be the case, but Glorfindel has a way of throwing spanners in the works at just the wrong moment. *grin* We'll have to see.
Tari
· 22 April 2008
· Chapter 91: Running With the Wolves
Poor Glorfindel. What a dark path he is on. He thinks everyone is against him and wants to beat him. That couldn't be farther from the truth. I hope he sees the light soon.
Tari
P.S. I didn't realize you belong to Henneth_Annun until I read some of the emails today. I'll have to pay more attention. There are so many wonderful stories to read and I just don't have the time to do them justice. I still haven't made a dent in 2006 MEFA's.
Author's reply
Glorfindel is in a dark place right now, given what's happened to him, but there is light and hope for him.
As for Henneth_Annun, I belong but I don't post there. I'm not crazy about their set-up.