6336
· 12 May 2010
· Chapter 16: A Mystery at Long Lake
Hm, well here's a pretty little puzzle! A true mystery wrapped in an enigma! Just how did it get there, it was obviously built by elves who had been taught by Osse but what was he doing in Long Lake, I though Ulmo was the only one who went up rivers? Why did/was it sunk and why are the Avari afraid of the lake?
I see your Muse is in cliffie mode, nice Musie please tell Fiondil what happened, inquiring minds want to know!
Lynda
Author's reply
Undortunately, Lynda, some mysteries are never meant to be solved. And that's as true in fiction as it is in real life. And this leaves it open for readers to come to their own conclusions as to who built the ship, why was it on Long Lake and what caused it to sink. I'm sure there will be as many theories as there are readers, and that's as it should be. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it.
yangyue
· 22 April 2010
· Chapter 12: Daughter of Fate
i love this chappy:D is russa going to be mentioned in 'elf, interrupted' or is it going to remain an AU?
Author's reply
Hello Yangyue. This is strictly AU inspired by the ALEC challenge which naturally makes it a 'what if?' story. Russa, of course, does not exist in the 'Elf, Interrupted' universe which is essentially canon, i.e. Fëanor has seven sons and no daughters. Thanks for letting me know how much you enjoyed this story. I really appreciate it.
Kitty
· 7 April 2010
· Chapter 15: Estel en-Aderiad
Very fitting chapter title. I love how this little plant, even if it's more a weed than a flower, gives them all hope that after the destruction new growth can come, that things will get better. They needed to go into Mordor to see it, no doubt. Very fitting for Easter.
And now I'm all caught up, yay!
Author's reply
Thanks, Kitty. I'm glad you enjoyed this story. I'm sure the elves, especially those who would soon be sailing West, needed such a sign of hope to ensure themselves that their struggles had not be entirely in vain and that they were leaving Middle-earth in good hands.
Kitty
· 7 April 2010
· Chapter 14: The Exilic Noldo’s Guide to Coping with Post-Helcaraxë Stress Syndrome (or PHSS)
I can see how that endless winter inspired this story ;)
PHSS indeed. Admittedly I can understand why Cehtelion reacted the way he did; after the Helcaraxë longer lasting snow has to bring back very uncomfortable memories. But Laurefindel was right, too, in his description of how beautiful snow and ice can look.
*lol* Love the idea of Glorfindel, of all people, writing a book about PHSS! Though I guess he now can see the need for it, now that Turucáno is reacting as bad as Cehtelion. He seems to cope better with the memories than many others.
Author's reply
Yes, it did indeed inspire this story. I was feeling very much like Ecthelion and Turucáno and Ellie was giving me this pep talk very much like Glorfindel. In fact, much of Glorfindel's speech about the beauties of snow are taken from that conversation. And I think Glorfindel was a very strong personality, able to cope with things more easily than others, or perhaps just better at hiding his true feelings. Who knows? *grin*
Kitty
· 7 April 2010
· Chapter 13: Instruments of Love
Even if I hadn't remembered the name of Elros' wife, the way they meet somehow made me think at once there will come more of it *grin* How very fitting that they found together over books!
When I reached the end and realised just what "purpose" these instruments had I couldn't help but laugh aloud. These Valar are really such a devious bunch!
Um ... about that wedding gift ... why not the instructions to the instruments? *evil grin*
Author's reply
The Valar are very devious indeed, Kitty. I'm glad you got a laugh out of this and I like your wedding gift idea very much. *grin*
Kitty
· 7 April 2010
· Chapter 12: Daughter of Fate
Males are the same everywhere, thinking someone can't do something just because she's female. And with *these' brothers, I'm not surprised Russa isn't going to agree to that.
All in all, a fascinating story. What an idea, Glorfindel marrying the daughter of Fëanor! But I like the image of him married and happy with children. As Námo said, he will be very, very proud of his wife when he is reembodied and returns to her for what she did. Not only she saved the Silmaril, but one of her brothers (and the nicest), too. And Eärendil taking them home on Vingilot was just perfect. That was a lovely story, Fiondil.
Author's reply
I'm glad you liked this, Kitty, especially the idea of Glorfindel happily married with children. I like that idea too. Too bad that this version of history never came true. *sigh* Still, it was fun imagining how things might have gone had Fëanor had six sons and a daughter and the daughter more sensible than all the sons put together.
Kitty
· 7 April 2010
· Chapter 11: Beyond the Galvorn Door
Must be quite boring for Námo without Glorfindel, Finrod and the others around to liven things up *grin* Even if it is good to know they are all reborn and reunited with their families and friends.
That was an interesting gift Námo got - one of these few remaining Elves finally accepting judgment and repenting of his crimes. (Which, by the way, sound rather creepy) But then it got quite terrifying, I have to admit. Despite all he did, I felt sorry for Cassalcarin. So I liked the outcome; it will do Námo some good to have an elfling for himself and to raise him.
Pity he isn't allowed out of Mandos - I am sure certain Reborn could give him a few ideas how to keep his brand-new parents entertained *grin* And I absolutely like the name. Very symbolic.
Author's reply
I'm sure the 'elfling' will be able to keep his brand-new parents entertained without the help of other Reborn. *grin* And if the other elves still behind the Galvorn door finally are released, he'll have any number of 'brothers' and 'sisters' to help keep their parents (not to mention their 'aunts' and 'uncles') entertained.
It is interesting that until Námo was asked about Cassalcarin's new name I did not even know that 'Estel' was the password that opened the galvorn door, but it certainly is appropriate.
Kitty
· 7 April 2010
· Chapter 10: Sun-in-Eclipse
Why do I get the feeling the Valar are having way too much fun with that whole issue? ;) It is really advisable to warn the Elves beforehand, after all - when such a phenomen happens for the first time and no one knows why and what it means, there *has* to be some panic.
Well, the Valar found an easy and practical way to explain the phenomen by just showing how the distance is changing things. Though I have to admit, Melian's version was much more fun :D
Author's reply
I'm sure the Valar were having a lot of fun with this. And I just had to include Melian's version of the events since that is what is said in the Silmarillion, and so this is my take as to why they thought this. Not having the Valar around to explain things and Melian not wanting to bother with teaching them celestial mechanics makes her version reasonable as typical of mythological explanations of natural events. And it certainly is more fun than Manwë's explanation. *grin*
Kitty
· 7 April 2010
· Chapter 9: To Stand Fast Against the Night
*shakes head* Inzilâdun is the more sensible of the brothers, no doubt. And he was right. Sadly too few were wise enough to see it, that much was obvious from the beginning, even without knowing the outcome. I am glad at least the Faithful escaped in the end, otherwise the story would have been even more depressing.
Author's reply
Indeed, Kitty. The fact that the Faithful did escape is the story's only saving grace. I felt sorry for Amandil in this, for he and the other Faithful saw in Inzilâdun their last hope. I found the scene at the end very poignant, knowing that that hope would prove fruitless.
Tari
· 6 April 2010
· Chapter 15: Estel en-Aderiad
Yes, there is always hope, no matter how small it may be, just as new life always grows out of the desolation. That is how the world works.
Author's reply
And thank Eru that it is so, Tari. Glad you enjoyed this one. Thanks for reviewing.
ellie
· 5 April 2010
· Chapter 15: Estel en-Aderiad
This is a beautiful story full of the hope and the promise of new life and yet full of sorrowful memories of all that had to happen to achieve this new world and new life for all in Middle-earth. The little flowers are wonderful and so elfy in their symbolism. it is good to see the elves behaving like the creatures of nature which they are instead of having to be the warriors of wrath which they had to be for so long. Nicely done!
Author's reply
Hi, Ellie. Yes, it is indeed good to see the elves as stewards of nature instead of warriors and those who will be sailing will do so with a lighter heart, I think, knowing that even out of the worst destruction, life will flourish. Thanks for your comments. I greatly appreciate them.
Larner
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 15: Estel en-Aderiad
Perfect for the season!
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner. Happy Easter!
Kitty
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 8: Mavoinë
Arminas is right; even if the tower were really important (which it's not, though I guess it was the beginning of the end), Isildil should be with his wife at this time.
It's a shame – and quite rude - that Isildil was deserting his own family and guest because of this stupid tower. He missed so much of the most important time in the life of his son, and I feel so sorry for his wife and child. This obsession with the Undying lands and immortality isn't healthy *sigh*
Author's reply
Of course, it was unhealthy and Isildil's obessession is only a hint of how it was beginning to be for many of the Númenóreans who were beginning to resent their shorter lifespan in comparison with the elves, nevermind that their lifespan was much greater than those of Men living in Middle-earth. Isildil did indeed miss out on much and that was his greatest tragedy: that he could not see the good that was in front of him, always pining for a good that could never be and therefore was not truly a good. We humans still have that problem even today.
Kitty
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 7: The Ban of the Valar
The Valar realised very early on that they had to prepare for the worst, it seems. And while it was true that Elros and his people were honourable, we know that later generations strayed from the path.
One can only wonder what would have happened if Manwë had listened to Námo's feelings of unease and raised the isle further away from Valinor.
Author's reply
We'll never know, of course, and perhaps in the end it would have made no difference. Sauron could still have corrupted the Númenóreans and they could have still fallen though their fall might have taken a different path.
Kitty
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 6: Tenn’ Ambar-Metta
*sniff* That was so sad and left me in tears. As glad as I am that Elros wrote this letter, it was hard to read, and it must have been even harder for Elrond. Luckily he was not alone and had his friends with him.
Author's reply
This is what you might call a three-hanky story *grin*. And as you say, as hard as if was for Elrond, at least he had friends to offer him their love and support during this difficult time and I'm sure he appreciated it very much, because I think, until that momment, the knowledge that his brother would eventually die and leave the Circles of Arda was only an abstraction. Now, however, the reality has hit home and it must have been doubly hard for him to come to terms with Elros' death, more so than it would be for any Mortal.
Kitty
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 5: Eönwë Among the Edain
*snicker* It's quite obvious that our dear Eönwë isn't too happy with his current job! And Elros' first attempt at using a scythe left me in hysterics. Half-elven, indeed! Not even *I* have been that clumsy with a scythe!
And I love the story of Alatar making the horse run away and his punishment :D
Not to mention the plant and potion brewing lesson. That was funny, as much as I felt for Elros! It was difficult for him to belong to two so different races and have to chose one, being separated from the other and his twin in the process.
It was really fun to re-read that to finally get my review done!
Author's reply
I'm sure you could tell I had a lot of fun beating up on poor Elros and making Eönwë's life miserable at the same time. *grin* Elros did have it tough, I think, at least in the beginning, trying to fit into a world into which he hadn't been born. It was a good thing Círdan was willing to mentor him for a time. And I think even Eönwë learned a thing or two while he dwelt among the Edain.
Kitty
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 4: A Slight Miscalculation
Oh, I don't even dare to look when you posted this one, and I still haven't reviewed yet! *blush* Really sorry about being so behind here!
So that was the (in)famous story how Glorfindel ended up in prison. I remember it was mentioned before. Of course Ecthelion had to rub it in a bit how stupid it was :D
And I have to say that was not Glorfindel's best idea. Nothing against a nice prank, but to kidnap Idril and frighten poor Tuor so badly isn't funny. Oh well, I guess he got his comeuppance – and learned never to underestimate Idril again *evil grin* 'Slight' miscalculation comes not even close!
Author's reply
Hi, Kitty. Well, 'slight' is Glorfindel's word for the fiasco, not anyone else's. *grin* The ellon is irrepressible, isn't he? Glad you enjoyed this. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.
Sunny
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 15: Estel en-Aderiad
Addendum: I saw a number of those little earthbound suns today, and one enterprising kid picking them :-)
As for Gimli, I think he would do his grumping until all the elves' backs were turned, then pour too much water on the poor weed ;-)
Author's reply
You're probably right. *LOL*
6336
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 15: Estel en-Aderiad
Hope renewed, indeed!
One of your best.
Thankyou.
Happy Easter,
Lynda
Author's reply
Thank you, Lynda. I'm glad you liked this one. Happy Easter!
Ah, the hope of resurrection indeed! A very appropriate tale for Easter Sunday. I found this tale beautiful; yes, even in the midst of desolation, hope has sprung up anew. Even the most detested of life forms is still life, and all Life springs from the will of Iluvatar and the Flame Imperishable, even in Arda Marred.
Such a lovely picture; the Elves gathered around one small bloom, seeing it well tended, and then noticing many, many others...it won't be long before even the Black Land is brought back to life and beauty, now that the evil has fled, I trust.
I also wanted to comment on the scene in the inn, where the warriors were wolfing their food and the others ate more sedately...I admit to thinking Are those guards Hobbits or elves? *lol* And of course, Aragorn's smallest Guardsman did show up. I adore Pippin!
Galadriel did have Finrod there, and Elrond had Gil-galad, and Cirdan...Legolas had Thranduil, and indeed Oropher...each by bearing witness to this most momentous of events. I only wish I could have found out what Sam thought of flowers growing there at last!
My goodness, this has turned into a long review, and not at all my usual caliber either. I don't sound nearly as bouncy as usual, though I am still coherent even at seven in the morning! *is amused* I'm taking a leaf out of Rhyselle and Edlyn's books and writing you a review nearly as long as the chapter, Atar Fiondil!
All in all, a lovely portrait of resurrection, peace, healing and renewal, and a beautiful Easter offering!
I wish you a blessed and beautiful Easter Sunday, Atar Fiondil! *hugs*
Tye-melin!
Kaylee
Author's reply
Hello, Kaylee. Happy Easter! And thank you for a lovely review. Perhaps its style being more sedate and less bouncy just means you're growing up a bit more. *wink* Anyway, I'm glad you enjoyed this story and got so much from it. Thanks for reading and reviewing. *hugs*
shirebound
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 15: Estel en-Aderiad
it seemed the little weed took heart and grew an inch or two, or perhaps it merely stood a little straighter, buoyed up by the power of the Elves’ singing.
A beautiful story of renewal. :)
Author's reply
Thank you, Shirebound. I am glad you enjoyed this tale and I appreciate you letting me know.
Sunny
· 4 April 2010
· Chapter 15: Estel en-Aderiad
This fic was so very appropriate for the season! Over the easter the snow has gone from "a few bare patches" to "mostly bare", and I expect to start seeing coltsfoot flowers any day now. And the pollen season is definitely here - which means winter is definitely gone!
This was definitely an "Elves only" sort of expedition, though I expect many will be pleased to hear about what they found. And speaking of "Elves only", for some reason I kept seeing Gimli there among the Elves, grumping about how the elvish tree-hugging now extended to every other green, weedy thing ;-)
Author's reply
Thanks, Sunny. I'm glad you found this an appropriate story for the season. We're so used to Gimli and Legolas together that it's hard to leave him out, but I think he was wise not to insist on going. This was definitely an elvish affair.
6336
· 31 March 2010
· Chapter 14: The Exilic Noldo’s Guide to Coping with Post-Helcaraxë Stress Syndrome (or PHSS)
Hi Fiondil,
Just reading through the comments to this and found Sunny's she was right, I had not had my morning dose of caffeine.
I did enjoy it though, perky Glorfindel and all!
Lynda
Author's reply
Glad to hear it, Lynda. Thanks for setting the record straight.
Tari
· 22 March 2010
· Chapter 14: The Exilic Noldo’s Guide to Coping with Post-Helcaraxë Stress Syndrome (or PHSS)
I, too, have felt and intense dislike of snow. I think last month was a record setter for inches. However, I do have to admit that one day I saw it just as Laurefindel did. It was quite beautiful and sparkly. The trees looked exceptionally lovely. Glad to say spring is just around the corner as the Crocuses indicate. I can't wait.
(Tari means Queen? Hmmmmmm, I didn't know that.)
Author's reply
Yes, there are times when I too hate the very sight of snow after weeks and weeks of it, but then the sun comes out and everything sparkles and the sky is so blue it hurts and suddenly it looks so different. But, I am never so happy then when I see the last of the snow melt and spring is in the air. *grin*
And yes, Tári means 'Queen', as in Elentári 'Star-Queen', one of Varda's many titles.
Thanks for reading and reviewing, Tari. I really appreciate it. And Happy Spring!
Larner
· 20 March 2010
· Chapter 14: The Exilic Noldo’s Guide to Coping with Post-Helcaraxë Stress Syndrome (or PHSS)
A book would fare better, perhaps, than being forced to spout the same things over and over again! Heh! Nicely done!
Author's reply
That is certainly Glorfindel's impression. *grin* Thanks, Larner. I'm glad you enjoyed this one.