The Findaráto Diaries by Fiondil
Tari · 26 June 2009 · Chapter 4: Facing the Darkness
Learning to overcome ones fears is always difficult. Having no idea why you are afraid has to be awful. Finrod is so lucky to have ones who love him help him to overcome his dreams.
Author's reply
Would that we all had such people as Olórin, Tindomerel and Námo around to help us when our own terrors overtake us.
Larner · 25 June 2009 · Chapter 4: Facing the Darkness
A moment of instense fear and grief as Finrod comes to accept his own death, and the fact Melkor and his minions hold no power now over him. Alas for the terror he must face.
Author's reply
Very true, Larner, but in facing the terror and naming it, it no longer has any hold on him. As Námo tells him, 'thou'rt safe,' and that's all that matters now.
Kitty · 24 June 2009 · Chapter 4: Facing the Darkness
Not a good day for Finrod. First 'his' star will not be seen for some time, and second, the memories of his death are coming back ... a bit much in one day, however necessary. But I was glad Olórin and Tindomerel were so nice and understanding and even Námo came when he was most needed. It would be so much worse when he had to go through this alone. Hm, this might be a step forward in his development; to remember how and why he died may help him with his fear of darkness and to remember who he was. And this must be one of his worst memories; after that, there can't be much that is equally bad. Would be nice to know other memories coming up would be less frightening and more positive. Though I guess this his worst memory will return again and haunt him for a while.
Author's reply
No, not a good day for Finrod at all. *grin* Still, as you point out, Kitty, this is a step forward in his development. He can now name the darkness that had him so terrified before and deal with it. Other memories of a more positive nature will start coming to the fore, but he needs to get past this particular memory first, since it is the last and more horrific than any others.
njomo · 24 June 2009 · Chapter 4: Facing the Darkness
Hi Fiondil, This is an interesting and thought provoking chapter indeed. One of the first things I found interesting is Finrod's reaction to Tancol and the calm and hope he felt while looking at it even though its light is from one of the Silmarils. I can understand why he thinks of it as "his" star, seeing how it effects him. It would be especially troubling in his situation, with what he's trying to deal with, to know that he'd have to do without it for a few days. How to cope, and where does he find tranquility without it? And yes, I realize he's not quite ready to make the connection yet between Tancol and the Silmaril. Hopefully he'll remember the hope Tancol gives him when he does. I also like how we find out, along with Finrod (if we forget what we already know *grin*) that his dream is really a memory of his last days of life. It just struck me that he was scared, as many of us can be when waking from a bad dream, but that he didn't realize the significance, say, of the "eyes in the dark" until he begins to tell Námo about the dream. And I remember, especially as a child, waking in the middle of the night knowing it's dark and not wanting to open my eyes. Whatever might be out there in the dark wasn't real and couldn't hurt me as long as I wasn't looking... And capping the chapter are Námo's last words, "...it is done, thou'rt safe." What words of comfort to hear, especially from this particular Valar. Quite wonderful! Then I remembered a certain chapter in EI-2...no wonder Finrod is so familiar with Eärendil’s Star when he and Glorfindel see it! Thanks Fiondil. I'm eagerly awaiting the next installment. Joanne
Author's reply
Hi, Joanne. I'm glad you found this chapter both interesting and thought provoking. Finrod doesn't know at this point that the Silmarils are tied up with 'his star', only that it is a sign of hope. Naturally, how he defines 'hope' will be different from how others define it, but for him it is the hope of a better future for himself, hope that all the little frustrations of bringing his hröa under the control of his fëa again will improve. I had a similar experience as a child as you, about waking up in the middle of the night and not wanting to open my eyes. Even as an adult, I still have that same reaction after waking from a nightmare. And, of course, Námo's preferred role is as Comforter, so his words to Finrod are the words of a parent comforting a child who has woken from a nightmare. Knowing that one is 'safe' is the greatest of feelings. Thanks for reviewing, Joanne, and I'm glad you are looking forward to the next installment.
Sunny · 24 June 2009 · Chapter 4: Facing the Darkness
I don’t suppose this is the real memory of how Finrod died. But it is certainly an echo of it! Yet the mere echo is still enough to turn Finrod quite hysterical. So Finrod thinks of Tancol as _his_ star, does he? And gets angry at the prospect of its disappearing for a time? I suppose he isn’t quite ready for a lecture on orbital mechanics quite yet... ;-)
Author's reply
Probably not, or actually it's more a dream-memory, but certainly it's terrifying for him. And no, I don't think a lecture on orbital mechanics is on the schedule that Olórin and Tindomerel have set up for our Reborn. *grin*
Kaylee Arafinwiel · 24 June 2009 · Chapter 4: Facing the Darkness
Aww, poor sweetling! *cuddles Finda* Yes, his star is going to go away, for a little while. But Tancol will come back. It has to. *nods* And at last, Finrod has faced the darkness and faced his inner demons. Why do I get the feeling that the first time will not be the last? It was a wonderful chapter, atar indonyo. *smiles* (Yes, you were very right about what I meant to say before...because you are that to me. I think I'll keep saying it for some time to come. *grin*) But back to Finda before I get sidetracked. He's dreamt of the Ring of Barahir, and of his confrontation with Sauron, now...I always like the description of the ring. It must have been breathtaking to see. And now I'm going to go reread the Tapestry story, because I want to see that scene again. :) Tye-melin! Kaylee
Author's reply
Hi, Kaylee. Yes, Finrod is finally facing the darkness and his inner demons and no this will not be the last time he will have to do so, but at least he is now learning ways to deal with them as they come up. I'm sure the Ring of Barahir was indeed breathtaking. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter, yeldë indonyo (I misspelled it the last time). Thanks for letting me know. Tye-melin!
Kitty · 22 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
Good to see Finrod makes progress in speaking and moving. His reaction to Eärendil was touching. Yes, it is working in giving him hope, no doubt. But his reaction to the mentioning of the Silmaril was not so good. There seems to be already a connection made in his subconsciousness. Námo is probably right that they ought to avoid mentioning it any time soon again ...
Author's reply
Hi, Kitty. Yes, Finrod is making progress, slow but sure. And knowing about Eärendil and the meaning of the star will certainly help him to maintain his own hope. Unfortunately, his unconscious is picking up on all the dark aspects of his life and death and he's reacting without understanding (yet) why. I suspect that it's the same with many of the Reborn and it's a crap shoot as to what word or phrase will set any of them off. Makes it interesting for their Maiar tending to them. *grin*
njomo · 19 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
I can well understand Finrod's terror on hearing Tindomeral talking about the Silmaril. It reminded of when I was a very young child and was first aware of the mountains in the distance that could be seen from my home. For some reason on first becoming aware of what was in the distance, the sight filled me with a nameless dread and anxiety. I would imagine Finrod must have felt something ten or a hundred times worse than I, considering the reason behind his reaction, even though he does not yet know why he reacts as he does. I just remember that not knowing why I was afraid made me feel that much worse. And regarding Eärendil-yes, he was the one who gained the favor of the Valar with his motive, being spokesman for both Elves and Men, as opposed to all those who came to Valinor before him, who pled their case with no effect. As Olórin points out in ths chapter, the existence of Gil-Estel gives evidence to the care and love of the Valar. And I don't think the Valar would have sent their forces to Beleriand if they felt otherwise. Anyway, what a wonderful way for Finrod to begin life anew. In spite of his fears, Finrod has the knowledge of being loved to carry him forward. Quite wonderful! Thanks Fiondil. Joanne
Author's reply
Hi, Joanne. I think many people can relate to what you mention about your own experiences as well as with what Finrod is going through. And, certainly, not knowing why one is afraid just makes things all that much worse. The fact that, as you say, the Valar agreed to sent their host to Beleriand to aid the Elves and Mortals there and defeat Morgoth once and for all (almost, if one ignores the Dagor Dagorath *grin*), shows that they indeed cared for and loved the Children. If they didn't, they would have acted otherwise. Knowing that one is loved divinely is perhaps the most powerful gift anyone can receive and such knowledge helps to keep away despair when things don't seem to go well. Thanks for your lovely review, Joanne. I greatly appreciate it.
Sitara · 18 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
Hi, Fiondil. Before starting to comment your new story, I'd like to tell you that, from now on, you might find my reviews a bit more strange than before. For this, allow me to apologize in advance and tell you that no offence whatsoever is meant. As for the new story...People complained about its "dryness" and its lack of action and drama as well and they're right. There are no things such as these. And there shouldn't be either. They're looking for them in the wrong place. The recovery after an illness has ever been dull, lenghty and often painful. I'd rather compare re-embodiment with the convalescence than the birth. Unlike a small child, the Elves cannot ever have a fresh start, I'm afraid. The pains and woes of one beginning to get re-accustomed with the functions of a body are aptly described. As the ministrations of the Ainur are. The perspective seems to be shifting between the musings recorded by a "older" Finrod and the daily events of a newly Reborn's life. The other problem that seemed to me interesting concerns the Ainur. One of the earlier rewievers was puzzled by their behaviour, apparently quite unfitting compared to the canon. According to the Valar's words, their purpose is to watch and care for Eru's creation and, especially, for His Children. I agree with it. And I would add that, after doing a less than brilliant job at caring for the said Children in the past, I believe they did realize by now what exactly is at stake here. Meaning, they do have to win a war for Arda, like the Christian angels. And I'm afraid the most dangerous battle is currently fought without using physicals weapons. As his grandfather, in a way, Finrod practically awoke under the starlight. A touching moment. But, unlike Finwe, Finrod had to count one star more on the firmament. The very symbol of the grieves of their all. Why to be called Gil-Estel then? Hope for what, I wonder? For the death of Morgoth? Hmm....Here, at this point, Tolkien's work reaches the very core of the Christianity, in my opinion. For this...it's truly worth. For Gil-Estel means hope not for Morgoth's death but hope for the day when his darkness will also die and "Morgoth's Ring" will dissapear forever. This is Gil-Estel. Something I wouldn't have expected, this story, but I'd say it's rather a pleasant surprise. Good job, Fiondil.
Author's reply
Hi, Sitara. I'm a little confused by your statement about people complaining about the story's 'dryness'. I went back and re-read all the reviews to date and did not find one mention of 'dryness' in any of them and the two reviews that were somewhat negative in their tone spoke of other things. Maybe you know something I don't? *grin* Anyway, you are correct about the shifting perspective. The 'diary' entries are written by an older, maturer Finrod, perhaps as he sits in his study in Tirion while waiting for Glorfindel to be released from Mandos (probably sometime after his 'little chat' with Námo *grin*). When I first contemplated writing this story I didn't really want to write it in first person because I wanted the freedom of bringing in the pov's of other characters besides Finrod. Then I happened to read a book where the author has the protagonist writing first person essays previewing each section of the book but the actual story is told in the third person. I liked that format and decided to use it here except that each *chapter* is headed by a diary entry. I think your summation of the Valar's motives is probably very close to reality. When Mandos began to be populated with dead Elves with the knowledge that they (or most of them) would eventually be reborn, they had to rethink their policy vis-à-vis how they interacted with the Children, or at least with the Firstborn who reside in Aman. And your idea of what 'Gil-Estel' truly stands for is quite lovely and I think very true and I'm sure we are all hoping for that day when 'Morgoth's Ring' is no more. I'm glad you are enjoying this story so far, Sitara. Thanks for letting me know.
ellie · 18 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
I am not surprised that mention of the Silmaril sets him off. Poor guy! I also am not surprised that being in the dark bothers him - I think death in a dungeon would have a way of doing that to someone... I also can understand him feeling so much better knowing that someone loves him. After feeling forsaken and being exiled for so long and the deaths of so many kinsmen and the betrayal/abandonment by his people, it makes one wonder when he last heard "I love you" from anyone. Time to take Finrod home and keep him in the guestroom. BTW, what number am I in line waiting to get to take him home?
Author's reply
Hi, Ellie. Yes, all that you've said is true with regards to Finrod. You do have to wonder when was the last time someone said "I love you" to him. That he learns that the Valar love him in spite of everything must have given him great comfort. What number? Truly, my dear, you don't want to know. *lol*
Radbooks · 18 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
I'm enjoying this new story, it's interesting to see how Finrod handles some of the same things that we've seen Glorfindel go through. I love the diary part, it makes a nice introduction to each chapter - that would be hard for me to do, I think. I'm sorry I've been doing such a lousy job of reviewing your stories. I've just been overwhelmed with the end of school and a lot of different things going on. I have been enjoying them though!
Author's reply
Hi, Radbooks. I'm so glad you are enjoying this new story. While there are parallels to some of the things Glorfindel go through, obviously, because Finrod is Finrod and not Glorfindel, he will experience things differently and handle them (or not) differently from what Glorfindel did. In later chapters, especially those where he is in Lórien, we will see Finrod reclaiming his kingship to some degree as he interacts with the other Reborn. Don't worry about not reviewing, Radbooks. I quite understand how this is a rather busy time of year for you. Hopefully, when school ends and things calm down a bit you'll have more time to leave a review now and then. Thanks for taking the time to let me know how much you are enjoying this and all my other stories. I really appreciate it.
Sunny · 18 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
Yes, things hsve definitely been stirred up. Hmmm - if the mere mention of a Silmaril elicits such a reaction, when he doesn't even truly remember it yet, what will his reaction to other nasty memories be like? We already know that he fears the darkness...
Author's reply
We will see how this works out (more or less) in the next chapter, though not every memory is going to be explored. I think, though, as time goes by and he becomes stronger both in fëa and in hröa, the memories are not going to be so overwhelming or unconscious. They will become more conscious and he will be able to face them better.
Larner · 17 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
How beautiful, Fiondil! Very nice as he begins to learn what he needs to know, and as he regains control of his body!
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter.
Agape4Gondor · 17 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
*sits back with happy sigh* Glad Olorin is there.... even though I sometimes have a VERY difficult time with that particular Maya.....
Author's reply
Hi, Agape. Glad you enjoyed this chapter. Thanks for letting me know. So what do you have against Olórin? *grin*
Tari · 17 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
And isn't love all we all need. This was a very touching chapter.
Author's reply
Yes, indeed, Tari. I'm glad you found this a touching chapter. Thanks for letting me. I greatly appreciate it.
Kaylee Arafinwiel · 17 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
And so Finda learns about Gil-Estel, Tancol, for the first time! Ah, wonderful, meldonya. :) I was very happy to wake up to this little tale. (Off topic, by the way, thanks for answering my other questions...even if some of them were not exactly the answers I wanted, they're all I'm going to get and for now I'm content *lol* the rest is up to your Muse.) Poor Findarato, unable to sleep in the darkness! And being unable to hear about the Silmaril without panicking...yes, Feanor has much to answer for. I hope Finda will feel much better soon! (of course, the Valar call all times 'soon', so we'll see! And they're not the only ones!) Tye-melin, Kaylee!
Author's reply
Hi, Kaylee. Sorry I couldn't answer all your questions positively. Some of the answers even I don't know for sure at this time. Anyway, I'm glad you liked this chapter. Poor Finda, indeed, but he should recover soon enough. In fact, the next chapter will show him finally facing his fear of the dark and dealing with it. Tye-melin!
Thalanee · 17 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
Small wonder actually that the poor ellon felt terror at the mention of the Silmaril and that he´s afraid of darkness. That was a sweet way to end this chapter though! Greetings, Thalanee
Author's reply
Thanks, Thalanee. I'm glad you liked how the chapter ended. Finrod is remembering his death in the dark without actually remembering it on a conscious level, so it's even more frightening for him. He'll have to face his fears eventually (next chapter actually *grin*) before he can move forward.
6336 · 17 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
Well I can quite understand his fear of the dark, it's how he died, in the dark, protecting Beren,hearing his fellow elves die one by one, waiting for a warewolf to come get him. Though he did get the warewolf, in the end, though the price was a trip to Mandos! Yes, I suppose hearing the word Silmaril would bring things back to him, Feanor has a lot to answer for! More please, lots more, Lynda
Author's reply
True, Lynda. He is unconsciously remembering his own death even though he doesn't know it. Fëanor has indeed much to answer for, though I'm not sure if Finrod would think he has to answer to him for his own death, but certainly, the Silmarils were a contributing factor. I'm glad you are eagerly waiting for more of this story. There is certainly more to come. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.
Maire · 17 June 2009 · Chapter 3: Star of Hope
I'm sort of finding myself not quite sure how to react to this story. I sort of want to like it. I haven't seen many stories that deal with the immediate aftermath of elves being re-imbodied, so I kind of like that idea. Somehow, for me, it's just not quite ringing true. Finrod trying to establish the reconnections between body and soul reads (for me) like some bizarre combination between stroke rehabilitation and the ST:TOS episode 'Spock's Brain.' There's just something that feels off to me, and I wish I could state it more clearly. I'm also wondering how you reconcile the Valar who supposedly love the elves with Tolkien's Lord of Mandos who was all for killing Earendil for daring to set foot on Aman. The Valar (for me) read more like Norse gods than Christian angels, and so I frankly find your conception of them to be a bit jarring. I really want to like this, but I find that I can't quite.
Author's reply
Hello, Maire. As I told another reviewer of an earlier chapter, *trying* to like something is sometimes an exercise in futility. You either do or you don't. As Yoda (in a completely different universe and context) says: "There is no try." *grin* I don't expect everyone to like how I write no more than I expect to like everything I read in fanfiction or elsewhere. Everyone has their own taste in literature. My interpretation of what an Elf whose fëa has been divorced from their hröa is just that... my interpretation. Others might see things differently and that's okay. I think that if one's fëa has been severed from one's hröa for centuries, perhaps for millennia, then there's going to be a (brief) period of adjustment while the two re-learn to mesh together again. That's how I wrote Glorfindel's re-embodiment in "Elf, Interrupted", so it's not something that I haven't written before. As for my reconciling the image of the Valar, especially Námo, with what we find in the Silmarillion.... Tolkien states more than once in his writings that the Silmarillion is a compilation of tales twice removed from the original sources. They are actually Mannish tales (most likely compiled in Númenor) derived from Elvish tales which are primarily (though not exclusively) from the point of view of the Noldor who left Aman for Middle-earth, following Fëanor. Their perceptions of the Valar, especially Námo, are necessarily colored by what they did (ie. rebel against the Valar). I have had Námo in my stories comment to some of the Elves that the Noldor who fled Aman had a jaundiced view of him given the circumstances of their flight and the so-called "Doom of Mandos". And I think you are misreading what Námo says in regards to Eärendil. He does not advocate killing him, he merely asks if it's possible for a Mortal to live in the Undying Lands among Immortals. I know many people have looked upon the Valar in a similar vein as you do, but I feel that that might be a misconception of what Tolkien intended. At some point, he specifically states that Gandalf as a Maia is an angel as conceived of in Christian theology. I take that statement by the Professor as my starting point with regards to how I portray the Valar. Other people may choose to see (and write about) them differently and that, of course, is their choice.
Agape4Gondor · 13 June 2009 · Chapter 2: The Beauty of the Night
I am glad you left us on a note of wonder and awe. The emotions of this chapter were almost too difficult to bear - I know you meant for it to seem as if a newborn child was learning about his world... but all I could think of was a stroke victim, trying desperately to make his/her body work again, like it used to - and the horror and frustration that accompanies such a journey - always, the victim hoping that their bodies and minds will attune to each other..... *sobs* Again though - glad for the ending....
Author's reply
Hello, Agape. I understand how you feel after reading this chapter. Having watched my own mother suffer through a stroke and trying to reclaim some measure of her former mobility, I think I drew more on that than on what a newborn child must experience for what Finrod and the other Reborn undergo as they attempt to reintegrate their fëar to their hröar. Other readers apparently could relate, having similar experiences of watching a loved one struggle through the aftermath of a stroke, so you're not alone in your feelings. And I was more than happy to end the chapter on a note of wonder and awe, for whatever our trials and tribulations, there is always wonder and awe to behold if we just take the time to look up and out beyond ourselves and our problems.
Tari · 12 June 2009 · Chapter 2: The Beauty of the Night
It must be very frustrating indeed to wake up as a child once more, unable to do anything for yourself. The plus side is that once your memory returns, you have a chance to do things better than before. Finrod has a long road ahead of him.
Author's reply
Well, not exactly wake up as a child, but more, wake up without the ability to do things, at least not a first, while the hröa and fëa learn to interact with one another again. Let's face it, even newborns are pretty uncoordinated and unable to do anything at first. They have to learn, just as Finrod and all the other Reborn do. The good news is that they learn much faster, so it only takes them weeks rather than years to reclaim their physical abilities and perhaps improve on them. Finrod indeed has a long road ahead of him, but we all know the ultimate outcome, even if, at this point in time, he does not. *grin*
njomo · 10 June 2009 · Chapter 2: The Beauty of the Night
Hi Fiondil, Yes, this episode has parallels to RL for many of us it seems. My father also had a stroke; luckily for him it was slight and to all appearances he recovered well but he always said his ability to type was never the same. At least we know Finrod will be successful in recovering complete movement albeit with some frustration in the process. Finrod's reaction to the night sky (as well as Glorfindel's in EI-1) strikes a chord in me as well. I remember my own reaction upon first seeing a really "dark" sky--being from the city, it was a quite a new experience for me. I was awestruck to say the least, and I've never yet seen a night sky to compare. If only it were not so hard to find such a sight in these times, but I digress... Anyway I still have a longing to see the stars and so it gives me great joy to read of Finrod's reaction to the night sky. And lucky for him to have the companions and helpers that he has. Apologies as this review seems to be more about me than the story, but at least you know you made an emotional connection (once again) with a reader! Thanks, and once again looking forward eagerly to next week's episode. Joanne
Author's reply
Hi, Joanne. Actually, when a reader tells me how a certain chapter or story caused them to react and relate what they have read to their own lives and experiences, then I know I've done my job as a writer. When a reader can make an emotional connection to what they are reading then that's a good thing. I remember when I was in Scotland with a friend and we were driving very late at night. We were out in the middle of nowhere with no signs of civilization except an occasional farmhouse off in the distance. At one point, we stopped the car and got out and looked up. For the first time, I think, I actually 'saw' the Milky Way in all its stupendous glory. And if that wasn't enough, we suddenly were treated to a meteor shower (this was in August so it had to be the Leonides or maybe the Pereseids, I forget which). So, I know what Finrod must have felt at the sight of all those stars, and how Glorfindel must have felt at the sight of the meteor shower that is describe in "Elf, Interrupted". Anyway, I'm glad you are enjoying this story and are eagerly looking forward to next week's installment. Thanks for reviewing. I really appreciate it.
Calenlass Greenleaf · 10 June 2009 · Chapter 2: The Beauty of the Night
(I'm in a bit of a hurry, so forgive this rather rushed review.) First off, I am delighted to read this. Finrod was the first elf from the Silmarillion that I loved, and he remains my favorite. Your portrayal of him always a pleasure to read. Like Elf Interrupted, I love how you write about the Reborn experiencing life again. Something about read the first chapters of this story is like starting on a new adventure. That's the feeling I always get whenever you post a new story (And I'm sorry if this comparison is rather hashed). Thanks for writing, and I look forward to more of this story. ~Cal
Author's reply
Hi Cal. I remember you saying that Finrod was your favorite elf from the Silmarillion (mine, too *grin*), so I'm glad you approve of this story and how it is unfolding. And I think it is as much an adventure for the reader as it is for the Reborn elf in discovering what their new life is going to be like. I'm glad you have that feeling with all my stories and that you are looking forward to more of this story. Thanks for letting me know and thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate you taking the time to do so.
Kaylee Arafinwiel · 10 June 2009 · Chapter 2: The Beauty of the Night
What a wonderful chapter, meldonya! :) I'm so glad I can finally review it coherently. *grin* Staying up late seems to have an adverse effect on my mental faculties in the morning, but I'm fully awake now (and it's past 2 PM *wry grin*) So THIS is why he likes porridge now! *grin* (I imagine you'll get tired of hearing that one, lol) I will politely disagree with Helene, who criticized your writing. Your Reborn elves are quite different from, say, Christians who are baptized as teens or adults, and spiritually reborn (I can speak from experience there), since Rebirth for Elves is not just rebirth of the fea, but the hroa. I think your characterization of them is spot on; it must be very difficult for the soul which dwelt in Mandos so long to re-integrate itself into a physical body once again. I had to learn to live a different way (in accordance with the Spirit, and I still struggle a lot even though it's going on seven years) while Glorfi, Finrod and the others have to re-learn to live in every way. Of course, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. (And sorry if I sound preachy, don't mean to. I don't want to offend any non-Christians either, it was the best example I knew of is all.) I felt sorry for Findarato when he woke up screaming...no doubt he was reminded of Morgoth's prisons, though he didn't know that was what he was reminded of. And wise Olorin, taking Finda out to see the stars. I've always felt the stars were a calming, soothing presence myself. :) Hopefully Finda's sleeping will improve. *huggles Finda* I'm excited for the next chapter! Tye-melin, Kaylee P.S. When a Reborn dreams of the way they died, if the Reborn died a terribly violent death (if, say, a fairly young adult, barely to maturity, died in battle, defending his father) how long do you suppose it would take for the elf to be soothed back to sleep again? Would there need to be Maiar intervention?
Author's reply
Hi, Kaylee. Yes, I recall our conversation recently when it was waaaayyy past your bedtime. *lol* Anyway, as this story progresses, there will be references to things that are mentioned in "Elf, Interrupted" and you (and every other reader) will be going "So that's how....!" *grin* I figure that's part of the fun. Finrod, of course, is remembering, without knowing he is remembering, his death, which actually occurred in Sauron's dungeon. They never made it to Morgoth's fortress. Remember, Finrod actually died in the very tower he himself had built on the island. It was the original Minas Tirith. I, too, have always found the sight of the stars to be soothing, a balm to the soul. As for your question, I suppose it would depend on the particular elf and the manner of their death and what exactly they dream. I suspect that regardless of the circumstances (the elf's youth at the time of death or whatever) there would be a need for Maiar intervention and possibly the intervention of Námo or Irmo as well. Thanks for your review, Kaylee and your kind words of encouragement. I'm glad you are looking forward to the next chapter. We will see more of Finrod's fascination with the stars and his introduction to one star in particular, a star that did not exist when he lived in Nargothrond. *grin*
Sunny · 10 June 2009 · Chapter 2: The Beauty of the Night
I wonder why Olórin calls Finrod by his Quenya name when it was quite clear in the first chapter that he thinks of himself as Finrod? Or is this an error that you missed correcting? So _this_ is why Finrod loves porridge in his new life. That first taste of food for his new body was evidently an utterly delightful experience. I realize it is too early for his memories to surface, but might not some part of Finrod be aware that he died in the darkness, and that is a part of why he is so frightened in the dark? It is likely reviews from me may be late or maybe even nonexistent for a few days - I suspect my PC is going belly up on me, and making safety copies has priority. Hopefully I will get a new PC soon. And then i wil have to set up the new PC the way I want it and transfer all data..
Author's reply
Finrod may think himself as 'Finrod' but that is not to say that others do and when I have someone address him as Findaráto it indicates that that person is speaking in Quenya and they would naturally use the Quenya form of his name. Also, I imagine Olórin calls him Findaráto deliberately so that he gets used to hearing it as that is what most of the elves of Aman will call him whether he wants them to or not. Definitely some unconscious part of him is aware that he died in darkness and that is why he reacts to it as he does. It will be a while before he remembers exactly why. That will come up in a couple of chapters from now. I wish you luck with your computer and look forward to hearing from you when you are back online. Thanks for taking the time to review, Sunny. I appreciate it.