Elf, Interrupted: Book Two: Glorfindel's Quest by Fiondil

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Thalanee · 15 June 2009 · Chapter 62: Glorfindel and Sador and What They Found

Isn´t this the same meadow you described in a tapestry story as one of the Mayar´s favourite places on the isle? Sounds like it... Those poor elves! I´m surprised non of them actually fainted! that was absolutely priceless- and since most people here think me crazy already for laughing like this there´s no reason for me to hold back (thank heaven´s I wasn´t drinking anything ;-) ) that encounter doesn´t really count as trouble... the bet is still on! Greetings, Thalanee

Author's reply

Yes, actually it is the same meadow. Glad you recognized it. The six youngsters' encounter with 'legends' was a lot of fun to write. Glad it gave you a laugh. Thanks for reviewing, Thalanee. I appreciate it. As for who gets into trouble first, though....

Thalanee · 15 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa

Is Glorfindel in trouble already? I have a bet going with myself that Glorfindel will be the first of the troup to get himself into trouble, but I didn´t think it would happen so soon, but then again we don´t know what has happened yet... Greetings, Thalanee

Author's reply

Glorfindel is always in trouble, though he woud probably say, "Define 'trouble'". *lol*

Agape4Gondor · 14 June 2009 · Chapter 62: Glorfindel and Sador and What They Found

A very fun chapter - and not the dire one I was half-expecting - you do have a track record, you know!!! As for Glorfindel - I did so enjoy this meeting - I think these 'young ones' seem quite ready to listen - now that their belligerance is gone and their 'awe' is slightly diminished *g* When I stayed at a B&B in NZ about four years ago, the owner hunted boar often - a knife was the only weapon he used. He would wait until the boar came close, jump it (honestly!!!) and then skewer the thing between the eyes. He said it was the 'norm' if one wanted real sport... So I think Sador might have survived such an encounter - luckily, he didn't have to find out!!! Again - fun chapter.

Author's reply

Thanks, Agape. I'm glad you found this to be a fun chapter. It was a fun chapter to write, as well. *grin* Thanks for your 'boar' story. The man has a lot of guts tackling a boar that way, sport or no sport. I don't think that the Elves would have approved of the 'sporting' nature of such a hunt, though. They would have merely hunted. I'm sure Sador would have done just fine with his knife if he had to, but, as you say, luckily he never had to find out.

ellie · 14 June 2009 · Chapter 62: Glorfindel and Sador and What They Found

It is fun to watch haughty Glorfy in action! Poor Sador has much to put up with, doesn't he? I thought it was terribly funny the surprise that those cocky kids got. What was it eomer said, "Legends spring to life from the grass?" teehee That was a very fun chapter and the sneaky glorfy and co even managed to get dinner out of the whole affair, too. More, please?

Author's reply

Hi, Ellie. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter, especially Glorfindel and all the 'legends' springing up around the poor kids. *grin* And naturally, there will be more. Thanks for letting me know how much you enjoyed this chapter.

Hel · 14 June 2009 · Chapter 62: Glorfindel and Sador and What They Found

Trust Glorfindel to be in trouble within five minutes of arrival... They were able to make the first contact in a really short time. I hope something positive comes from the meeting beside a good meal. It will be definitively interesting to hear the opinion of the young elves and their hope for the future. But it´s telling that their first thought and hope is that Finrod will take a role in their leadership. I really like it when they start their bantering.

Author's reply

Hi, Hel. Well, with Glorfindel, 'trouble' is his middle name. *lol* I'm sure something positive will come of this first contact, as it were. These are young elves, not yet burdened with a past that can't be forgotten (or forgiven), so they will be more open to what the kings are hoping to accomplish during their Progress. And yes, it is telling that their first reaction is the hope that Finrod will become their king. He is a well-beloved legend among the elves, so it's only natural that they would want him in that role. Glad you liked their bantering. Thanks for reviewing, Hel. I appreciate it muchly.

Sunny · 14 June 2009 · Chapter 62: Glorfindel and Sador and What They Found

_Somebody_ is definitely having a very bad day. Here Damrod and his friends have gone hunting, and managed go find a nice, big boar – but two of those dratted Amaneldi have gone and killed the boar instead. Then he goes and picks a fight with tho blonde one – who for some peculiar reason is wearing warrion braids! Whoever heard of one of those mainlanders doing that?? And to add insult to injury, the stranger then talks to them as if they are elflings and too young to be out hunting alone. Then things unexpectedly turns worse. Much, much worse. The blonde stranger, who didn’t seem to mind that somebody was picking a fight with him, was the legendary Balrog Slayer, and is likely to be able to pound them all flat without getting his hair mussed. Then more strangers burst in on the scene, including more legends: Beleg Cúthalion and Finrod, the former King of Nargothrond. I am sure poor Damrod at that point wishes he had never got out of bed this morning. And did Glorfindel actually get out of having to drag the boar carcass back to camp? The point Finrod makes, that it would be politically unwise of him to take the kingship on Tol Eressëa is a very good point, and shows that he is quite aware of political realities. (Well, he _used_ to be a king, after all.) From hints in your fics, you paint the other Noldorin kings of Beleriand as being quite preferential towards other Noldor – and Thingol was definitely quite anti-Noldorin, except for his own kin. Neither attitude would go over well on Tol Eressëa, with the mixed population. We know from another of your fics that the one wo eventually will reign on tol Eressëa is Gil-galad – and he is in Middle-Earth, and hasn’t even died yet. I suppose that three and a half thousand years of ruling a very mixed bag of Elves in Lindon (and if the population of Lindon _remained_ as ethnically diverse throughout his realm it is clear that no particular group decided to vote with their feet, and go elsewhere) – and presumably staying on reasonably good terms with the various other Elven realms and rulers - would ensure that he would end up at the very least _respected_ by most of the groups – and would also make him a good choice as ruler for the ethnically diverse population on the island. Is Bronweg one of the elflings we seen in _Maiar Games_? The little glade with the waterfall certainly resembles the one in that story. PC update has gone well!! I actually managed to get the computer I wanted, even though I had to go almost all the way across town for it. But once I had it, setting it up went fairly painlessly. I had all my data saved, and had the software ready to install as soon as I got the computer unpacked. The worst bit was the sheer _tedium_ of waiting for safety updates to download and install. A necessary chore, though. you can’t be too paranoid around computers these days!!

Author's reply

Hi, Sunny. Glad the new computer is working out better than you hoped. I love your 'summation' of the chapter. *grin* Too true... I think by the time Gil-galad is Reborn and all, the Tol Eressëans will consist primarily of those who knew him as their king during the Second Age. Many of the earlier inhabitiants of the island (the ones we are encountering in this story) will have long migrated onto the mainland as the Valar open up new lands for them per Glorfindel's discussion with the Maiar. At least that is how I envision it. Anyway, yes, this is the same Bronweg and his brother Handir from "Maiar Games". *grin* In fact, they will relate to the others the story of that fateful day in an upcoming chapter. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

njomo · 14 June 2009 · Chapter 62: Glorfindel and Sador and What They Found

Hi Fiondil, I too must agree with Rhyselle's remarks, especially about the chapter seeming too short. But I know that when I was reading it, as usual I was too caught up in what was happening and when I saw the asterisks I thought oh no, there must be more, and there wasn't...but I'll get over it.*grin* I was a little surprised over Sador's suspicion of Glorfindel's motives in asking him to come along, but then I considered what happened the last time they were together (in Lórien) and decided maybe Sador had reason to be so. I'm guessing that Glorfindel was trying to make a point with the Tol Eressëans. No matter whether he is a Lord or no, a more cordial greeting and less suspicion on their part would have been prudent (and polite), even considering the boar. But then for some reason the picture that came to my mind made me laugh-a proper exchange of "mae govannen" between the parties with a dead boar in the middle-well, my sense of humor is strange at times! And yes, Sador giving away Glorfindel's identity was quite funny, as all of us could tell Glorfindel was planning carefully when to make that revelation. And Bronweg and company didn't have a chance once Finrod and Beleg showed up. Just one blow after another, so to speak! It would have been interesting, though, to see the outcome if Finrod and his party hadn't turned up when they did! Thanks Fiondil. This was most enjoyable! Joanne

Author's reply

Oh dear. Everyone thinks the chapter is too short and here I was thinking it was just long enough. *lol* Well, it's really not much shorter than most of my other chapters, so I'm thinking everyone got so caught up with the what was happening that when the end came it took them by surprise. I guess that means I did something right? *grin* Anyway, I'm glad you found Glorfindel amusing, especially when it's obvious he was setting those poor ellyn up for a fall and then Sador goes and spoils his fun. Finrod showing up didn't help matters any. Thanks for reading and reviewing, Joanne. I really appreciate it.

6336 · 14 June 2009 · Chapter 62: Glorfindel and Sador and What They Found

Poor Glorfi! Here he is, doing the humane thing and putting the boar out of it's misery and he gets a spear shoved in his face! It would have served the hunters right if he had claimed the kill for himself, or split it, half a boar is better than none! Lets hope the youngsters recover from meeting so many legands and have an interesting conversation with the Kings and enjoy their dinner too. More please, Lynda

Author's reply

Yeah, well, that's life, isn't it? *grin* We won't see the meeting between the youngsters and the kings immediately, unfortunately. The next chapter will actually center around Haldir and his atar, Pelendur, as Arafinwë attempts to bring about a reconciliation between the two while everyone is waiting for Finrod to return with Glorfindel and Sador.

Kaylee Arafinwiel · 14 June 2009 · Chapter 62: Glorfindel and Sador and What They Found

Hi, meldonya! I'm afraid Rhyselle already said most of what I was going to, so I won't bore you with repetition, lol. I only have one new question. Bronweg? Would this be Bronweg son of Ezelmiril/Calemmiriel? Bronweg adar of Sador? That Bronweg? I won't raise my hopes *too* high, I know you said that of course more than one character has the same name. But you did say that Bronweg was born in Beleriand, and so he must have been, for Netilmire not to know him...hmm... Interesting, interesting...something to ponder. A lovely, if all too short chapter! lol! Tye-melin, Kaylee!

Author's reply

Interesting theory, Kaylee, but even if Bronweg (the oldest of the six ellyn) were a full three yéni old he would only be 432 years old and as this story takes place in 504 of the Second Age, that means Bronweg would have been born in the year 72 of the Second Age. He and his family came to Tol Eressëa around the year 100. Also, if this were Sador's adar then it would stand to reason that once released from Lórien, Sador would've been reunited with him rather than going with Glorfindel and Finrod to Tirion. And Netilmírë never met *this* particular Bronweg, either. Anyway, I'm glad you liked the chapter even if it was a bit on the short side. The next chapter will be slightly longer, but not by that much. Sorry.

Rhyselle · 14 June 2009 · Chapter 62: Glorfindel and Sador and What They Found

What a lot of information passing from one person to another in a single chapter, and done in such a great storytelling way! I was quite amused by Glorfindel's attempt to "surprise" the local youth with who they were, and even more amused when Sador turned the tables and revealed his identity to them. The conversation was great, and avoided the "As you know, Bob" thing between character who have all the info already. These ellyn couldn't know without them being told, and their reactions to realizing that not only Glorfindel, but Beleg and Finrod were there reminded me a bit of Eomer's comment about legends rising from the grass when he met Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli on the plains of Rohan in LOTR. My only complaint, if you can call it that, is that the chapter seemed so short! LOL! But your chapters could be five times their length and I'd still be eager for more. Well done, as always!

Author's reply

Hi Rhyselle. Sorry the chapter was too short. Actually, it was just long enough, or so my Muse tells me and I always listen to my Muse about things like that, he's usually right. *grin* Anyway, I'm glad you liked the conversations as various people's identities are being revealed. Those poor ellyn were probably thinking they would've been better off staying at home and they certainly would have sympathesized with Eomer on that scor. *lol* Thanks for reading and reviewing. The next chapter we'll go back to the encampment and see what's going on there as Finrod, et al are making their way back for dinner. *grin*

Aiwen · 11 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa

I like your version of Tol Eressea.

Author's reply

Thanks, Aiwen. Of course, we haven't seen the whole island yet, just bits and pieces of it in "Elf, Interrupted: Book One" and not even with any real detail. Hopefully, with the Progress, we'll see more of the island and the islanders.

Larner · 9 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa

A good and educational journey. Interesting that Gildor's wife is already here. Now--where did Glorfindel disappear to THIS time? Heh!

Author's reply

Yes, and the education is only begining... for everyone. I decided it would be fun to give Gildor a wife... motivation for him to sail when Elrond does. *grin*

Tari · 9 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa

Oh no, now what happened to Glorfindel and unfortunately Sador? It never ceases to amaze me that the Elves are still fighting within themselves. I would have thought that the Kinslaying and other various battles would have awoken them to the errors of their ways. Even though they are scattered about, they still should be able to get along and visit each other now and then. I hope those still infected with Melkor’s evil can be saved.

Author's reply

Elves have long memories, unfortunately, so it's difficult for them to 'forget and forgive' quite as easily as we would hope. Still, it says much for some of them that they are at least actively trying to mend the breaches between the various groups of Elves and bring healing to them all. This is the main focus of the story (besides how much trouble Glorfindel can get into and out of *grin*). The Valar, I believe, have every hope that all can be saved, though it won't happen overnight. We'll see in the next chapter what Glorfindel and Sador have gotten themselves into. Thanks for reviewing, Tari. I really appreciate you taking the time to do so.

Jancy · 9 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa

Hi Fiondil I finally get another chance to review! So a lot has happened since I last read. :-D You’re my favorite author because I like how much detail you put into everything you write. All the characters come to life, and I really enjoy reading this!

Author's reply

Hi, Jancy. Good to hear from you again. Yes, I imagine quite a lot has happened. *grin* Thank you so much for your kind words. I really appreciate you letting me know how much you enjoy my writing and my characters. Hope to hear from you again soon.

ellie · 8 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa

Uh oh! I wasn't expecting something to happen already! I'm kinda glad it did though to shut up Olwe's heir and his comments. I wonder if Glorfy is in danger though as he is the one who would be best able to sense what's going on and defend himself. Then again, if he enoucntered elves he may have erred on the side of "friendly" and gotten into trouble. Can't wait for the next chapter!

Author's reply

Erring on the side of 'friendly'.... LOL! I love it and it's so Glorfi. We'll see in the next chapter just what Glorfi and Sador got themselves into. Hopefully, Finrod and Co. will be able to extricate them without too much bloodshed on either side. *grin*

Eärillë · 8 June 2009 · Chapter 60: Finalizing Plans

:Laurendil blushed and then sighed in defeat. "Fine. Have it your way," he huffed gracelessly. He gave Finrod a perfunctory bow and strode out of the room without another word." *grin* Ooh... Someone's throwing a fit... You missed putting space between "with" and "a" in one sentence in the chapter, by the way, but I could only copy-paste one item so I couldn't put the quotation here also... It was the only technical mistake, grammatical or spelling, that I found, though. This chapter was well-done as well. The interaction between the reborn among themselves was my favourite. Never thought one would tickle a king... an uncrowned one though he was. LOL And Glorfindel just continued the torture! Poor Finrod... The preparation among the reborn, to me, was the most tense of all, brief though it was compared to the previous ones done with others. The actual journey will be full of suspense, I bet... Hee. I don't particularly like suspense, but I trust you'll put some light moments there too... would you? Reading from your other stories and one-shots, I suppose something bad will happen to Eärnur... I don't know when and how but frankly, I'm not looking forward to it. I have a weak heart. :evasive look: LOL Mmm. Turned out the name I wanted was "Gwindor"... *blush* Oh well. Anyway, before I forget this too... Which of Fëanáro's words here were the gathering talking about? As far as I know, Fëanáro's... speeches... pointed at least to three things, although I can't recall all of them now. oowh... One chapter more... :( *sigh* Well, for next time, then. Glad to be finally able to read-review this story, though. It's been a long time since first I dreamt of it. :) See you later in the week, Fiondil. 10/10 - Rey

Author's reply

Hi, Rey. Thanks for pointing out the missing space. It's been corrected. In answer to your question about Fëanáro, Arafinwë is referring not to anything specific that he might have said but simply the general tone of Fëanáro's words and actions, especially in respect of his defiance of the Valar, accusing them of keeping the Elves as thralls, etc. Fëanáro refused to turn back and pretty much shamed the others to go on even if they were reluctant to do so. Those who did go back with Arafinwë were branded as cowards by him, though we know that isn't true. Arafinwë, at this point, is blaming Fëanáro for many things which flowed from the original Rebellion, whether he had a direct hand in it or not. He's become the scapegoat for all the other Elves upon which to hang their woes. Anyway, I look forward to your next review whenever you get around to it. Thanks for this one. I appreciate it.

Eärillë · 8 June 2009 · Chapter 59: A Surprise Reunion

Wow! Great! It was really a surprise, even to me. I thought it would still be some time before any of Finrod's companions would be released. When the four hooded people showed up, I even guessed that among them might be one or more of his brothers... Finrod's reaction was no less shocking. But sadly I wasn't able to really comprehend why did he fall into a shocked state... Well, I thought firstly that he was unconscious, given how you described him - that he crumpled to the ground. I have less experience reading about people in shock than people fainting. :rueful: Sadly the other reborn could not join them... I forget what his name was... Gwindir? I only remember that he was from Nargathrond; but what he had been there I also forget. :embarrassed: I always like it when Glorfindel pronounced something great or important in a bland manner. It seems to be his trait... a quite endearing one at that. It was so unique of him. :) It was a bit confusing when you said "the Noldo.," though, during the meeting in the family room. It would be better if you describe who the Noldo was since almost all of them were Noldor there save for Eärwen, Alassiel and Ingwion. Even if you say "the Noldor reborn," there would still be confusion... Hmm. :-\ About what Finrod, his parents and Amarië were doing before the lunch... I had a guess. It must be about Finrod and Amarië and their relationship... :) 9/10 - Rey

Author's reply

Hi, Rey. Well, Finrod was probably on the verge of fainting from shock, but managed to hang on. The Noldo in question of course if the one holding Finrod and we know which one by the fact that he is the subject of the previous sentence when he looks up at Arafinwë and Eärwen and then apologizes. Unfortunately, I could not name him outright or the surprise for the reader would be lost. I wanted the reader to be as confused as to the identity of the two ellyn as everyone else was. And I think describing him as "The Noldo who was holding Finrod" at this point rather cumbersome. *grin* I suspect that at the end when Finrod and his parents and Amarië are alone, they were spending the time talking about Finrod and his reaction to seeing Edhrahil more than anything else, but you could be correct as I'm sure there must have been something said about their long betrothal as well. *grin* Thanks for the review, Rey. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter.

Eärillë · 8 June 2009 · Chapter 58: Preparations and Problems

(LOL I decided to read-review now rather than later, but perhaps I won't read-review all the chapters at once. The temptation to come here was too great to ignore even with the promise of a ruined paper... *sigh*) I enjoyed this chapter much. I thought Lord Irmo wouldn't come, though. :) Hee... I wonder how he got wind of Glorfindel - cheeky - call. To me, he was being quite Valar-like in this chapter, with his mysterious words and sudden disappearance (which didn't often occur in the previous chapters and even in the first book, as long as I remember). The dialogues were interesting, especially those concerning the planning of the guards and the overall contingent (I always like planning, doing, reading or writing about it, hee). Glorfindel's subdued mood got to me without my effort of being in his shoes. You did his emotions and the situation around them quite well, as usual. I thought he had put away the stuff toy, though... Not as in throwing it away, but simply stowing it away from his bed. I had not seen him with it for a long time. :) There was something a bit off... (Hmm. Okay, not that, but I didn't get a good word to describe it, sorry.) in the chapter. It was when Ingwion talked with Finrod about the power of the Valar and possibly Maiar too. The discussion was short and blended well with the other situations in the chapter, but somehow I felt that the topic stood out too obviously to be a subject of a passing dialogue; compared to other topics in the chapter, I felt like it didn't belong... Mmm. I'm sorry if my words were harsh in any ways. I didn't mean to. I got carried out and too honest and detailed oftentimes... I can't seem to be able to get rid of those things which could get me in trouble. *grimace* - Rey

Author's reply

Hi Rey. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. As for how Irmo got Glorfindel's call, well, he did ask for any invisible Maiar hanging about to relay the message. *grin* I imagine there were any number of very embarrassed Maiar at that particular moment when Glorfindel leaned out the window. The discussion between Ingwion and Finrod about the power of the Valar I think was just a natural consequence of the flow of their conversation as a whole as they comment on Nienna's on-again-off-again library. In one respect, this is merely a snippet of a scene showing the two cousins taking their ease and enjoying each other's company. We actually come into it in the middle of the conversation, as it were. At the same time, Finrod's words at the end are a reminder to the reader that the Valar (and Maiar) exhibit vast amount of restraint in their dealings with the Elves, a restraint most do not appreciate or understand. It is something to keep in mind for later (hint, hint *grin*). Anyway, thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.

Imhiriel · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 43: Gardener of Souls

This is a beautiful chapter. When I came to the end and read about Glorfindel's dream, I had a happy smile on my face at the idea (and also because we the readers know who he will be "tending" in the future, don't we?).

Author's reply

Thanks, Imhiriel. I'm glad you found this chapter to be so beautiful. Some readers thought the image of the garden and Glorfindel tending it cliché but then, let's face it, most dreams are of that nature, but I liked the symbolism and it ties in nicely with what he and Niondil discussed earlier. And even if Glorfindel didn't know who would end up in his garden in the future, we readers certainly know, which makes this chapter (to my mind) a fun one to read, because we can all populate the future garden with the people who will be there.

Imhiriel · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 42: The First Lesson

Just... Wooooah! First the fight, which had me at the edge of my seat hardly daring to breathe. Wonderfully "choreographed", and the fierceness and quickness completely come through! I wonder just how much the Warrior Maiar were only "playing", and how much Glorfindel actually challenged him. Would you care to share what you think? And then this: "We fought against your fallen brethren," he said, moving slowly towards her, "against balrogs and werewolves, against Morgoth himself and Sauron. We fought and died while you all sat behind your precious mountains wringing your hands and bewailing the loss of the Trees and did nothing! You tell 'er, Glorfindel! Lisselindë still has much to learn, and especially to lose her mile-wide streak of entitlement and perceived superiority. When you think about it, in the First Age, the Elves "regularly" had to battle with diverse evil Maiar and managed to hold their own and even vanquish some of them. Whereas in the Third Age, the Balrog in Moria and Sauron were too much for all the Free Peoples to overcome in hundreds or thousands of years, and it took quite a bit of luck and teamwork to finally get it done on the sly.

Author's reply

And that's the reaction I want from my readers when they read this chapter, Imhiriel. *grin* The answer to your question about how much the Maiar were "playing" and how much Glorfindel was challenging them will actually be answered in a subsequent chapter, so I won't discuss it here. Of course, Glorfindel's telling off Lisselindë is merely from his perspective. The Valar were far from sitting around wringing their hands and doing nothing, they were simply not doing what the Elves all wanted them to do, which is not necessarily the same thing. Still, it was a good object lesson for all the Maiar (and Valar), I think. And you're right about the First Age Elves (and their Mortal allies, like Húrin and Beren) had to battle with evil Maiar and other fell creatures more or less on a regular basis and (usually) managed to hold their own. But even Tolkien says that as the ages continued, the Elves of later ages, living in Middle-earth, were not as powerful as the Elves of earlier ages who came forth from Valinor. Even Glorfindel tells the Hobbits that there were few in Rivendell who could stand against the Nine and these were once mortal men, not Maiar.

Agape4Gondor · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa

I loved the 'campsite' search! Oh dear me - some folk really know how to be cautious - but of course, Sador is a ever present reminder that caution is preferable to disaster. Now - another cliffhanger *heavy sigh*

Author's reply

Yes, Sador is a prime example of why caution is preferable to disaster. Hopefully, the Amaneldi will come to appreciate Finrod and the others' "over-reacting". Well, a cliffhanger yes, but I assure you nothing really bad happens (at least not this early into the Progress). *grin* Thanks for reviewing, Agape. I appreciate it.

Hel · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa

So Arafinwë brings Pelendur along as standard bearer. His try to reconcile Pelendur with his son I guess, as a standard bearer is not really necessary on this mission. Looks like the minimum number is getting bigger and bigger. As to Earendil: Ulmo had known about him and Elwing and their mission from the beginning. And even if not I doubt that anyone can approach the Inchanted Isles without the Valar noticing. And that they let them pass on to Valinor says all. It´s nice of Arafinwë to allow Finrod and his otornor their paranoia ;) I only hope it´s not necessary but considering the past... But at least the trees like them. But Glorfindel and Sador have already managed to get into trouble it seems. I await the next chapter and the catastrophes to happen.

Author's reply

Yes, a standard bearer really isn't necessary on this trip. Arafinwë has merely used that as an excuse to have Pelendur accompany them on the Progress since he has no other reason to do so. And he is intent on having Pelendur reconcile with his son. We will see how that develops as the Progress continues. And of course the Valar were aware of Eärendil and Elwing, especially through Ulmo as the two made their way towards Valinor. I suspect that's why Manwë declared a feast when he did, to draw the Elves away and leave a clear path for Eärendil without interference. Hopefully, Finrod's caution will not prove necessary, but it's always better to be safe than sorry in such cases. We'll see just what mischief Glorfindel and Sador land themselves into in the next chapter. I'm glad you're looking forward to the next chapter, Hel. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it.

Sunny · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 61: On to Tol Eressëa

So Arafinwë dragooned Pelendur into going on the progress. That obviously doesn’t sit well with him, but hopefully he will learn a few lessons there. He certainly is due some! And hopefully those lessons will also work towards healing the breach between him and his son. Finrod and his otornor are to be allowed their paranoia – or what _they_ consider simply being careful. The Amaneldi equally obviously consider this “reasonable level of security” to be nonsense and overreaction. But it also won’t surprise me if they find reason to change their minds during the progress. Scant hours has Glorfindel been on Tol Eressëa and already he has found trouble. I know, I am just guessing – but after all, this is _Glorfindel_ we are talking about, and he has a true genius for that sort of thing! I hope Eärnur will be able to find a nice begetting day present for Eärnilmë, and I assume the ellith with the Progress _will_ be able to help him.

Imhiriel · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 39: Glorfindel Alone

I'm glad you take the time to really show Glorfindel in his solitude. It is a true pay-off for the many preceding chapters where there was so much to-and-fro and hectic and danger and angst. What I'm wondering is: Glorfindel obviously has difficulties to while away the time. Wouldn't it be better for him if he had the possibility to make his own meals, light the fire himself, or keep the house clean without outside help? True, it would be just a matter of minutes, but it would keep his hands busy with something worthwile and productive while his mind still is free to roam and think about other pursuits. This chapter also gives us the possibility to recapitulate a little of what went on before, and face the consequences straight-on; I found it especially important that you spelled out just to which extent Glorfindel has lost trust in others and himself, and just how tense he is.

Author's reply

I felt it important that the reader see Glorfindel in solitude, trying to still himself. I'm sure we can all relate to his sense of frustration and unease at 'not doing'. Our society, especially, is insistent that if we aren't doing something all the time then there is something wrong with us. I think Nienna felt that Glorfindel needed to divorce himself from all activity in a sort of "cold-turkey" way, so that even something as minor as fixing his own meals would be seen as activity. Siting under a tree and feeding the wildlife is all the activity he should concern himself with for a while. We'll see in subsequent chapters how well this works. The issues that you mention are very important ones for Glorfidnel and I knew that they had to be spelled out so as to remind the reader what Glorfindel was about and just why the Valar wanted him isolated for a time from everything and everyone else. He needs to find the trust that he's lost and relearn to center himself, something he hasn't had a chance to do for quite some time now.

Imhiriel · 7 June 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

I'm glad to learn that Glorfindel's inability to see Eärendil's star isn't because of the Valar still manipulating him. I could soooo emphatize with his frustration and resentment, and I think complete solitude in the cottage and Nienna's firm promise to leave him alone will do him a world of good. And Eru himself has more "leeway" in further manipulations, I guess *g*. The chastisement of the Maiar was appropriate - with the recent incidents where they were concerned increasing, it was time somebody stepped in. It seems, they, too, still have to learn how to handle the Elves, if, as you said in the answer to one of my previous reviews, the Powers mostly had a "hands-off" attitude towards the Amanian Elves prior to the arrival of the Reborn. I loved the scene at the end between Námo, Nienna and Glorfindel; I really could sense the peace and serenity of the cloister descending on him as he sat between them and was reassured in honest, calm words.

Author's reply

Hi Imhiriel. The Valar are as puzzled by Glorfindel's inability to see Eärendil's Star as Glorfindel is but assume that there is a reason for it. The Maiar (or at least some of them) do have to learn how to handle the Elves, especially the Reborn. Hopefully, Lisselindë will benefit from her time at Nienna's and learn what she needs to learn in order to be a better Maia. I'm glad you love the scene at the end and that you could actually feel the peace and serenity of the cloister descending on Glorfindel. It's what he needs the most right now. Thanks for your review. I greatly appreciate it.