Elf Academy by Fiondil
Eruherdiriel · 22 February 2015 · Chapter 1: Daeron’s Great Idea
Dear Family of Fiondil, I don't know if you're ever going to read this, but I want you to know that he was a blessing in my life. He made Elvish something I could wrap my head around, his stories made me laugh, and he always, always replied to one of my reviews. I'm so very, very, very sorry for your loss and I will keep you in my prayers. ~Eruherdiriel
Al · 15 August 2014 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves
What fun! I loved it. Very original idea and obvious careful study of canon.
Author's reply
Hello Al. I'm glad you enjoyed this story and appreciated the care I took to remain in canon (as much as one can). Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it. I hope that if you go on to read the sequels you will enjoy them just as much.
Eruherdiriel · 28 May 2014 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves
I like this story. The part where the elves reveal themselves is especially interesting. I think that that young elf is going to become quite a prankster, with the Twins around. ~Eruherdiriel
Author's reply
Hello Eruherdieriel. I'm very glad to know that you enjoyed the story, especially the Elves revealing themselves. I hope you continue to read and enjoy the (to date) three sequels as well. Thanks for letting me know how much you enjoyed the story. I appreciate it very much.
KathyG · 23 May 2014 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves
Whoa! I think I can see what's coming--a Bible prophecy novel with a twist! Because, of course, before the Battle of Armageddon can take place, there will have to be the Rapture and the Tribulation, in that order. It'll be interesting to see how Tolkien's Elves will cope with the events of that horrendous 7-year period and the evil that will spawn it all, as well as what role that the Valar and the Maiar will have in the whole thing. You know, Fiondil, it's going to take more than destroying a Ring of Power, this time, to defeat Satan and his human henchman, the Antichrist! =)
Author's reply
Hi Kathy. The Dagor Dagorath in Tolkien's Legendarium is not the same as Armageddon, at least not as it is defined by the Fundamentalists of today. As a Catholic Christian, Tolkien believed in an End Time and a final confrontation between Good and Evil and the full establishment of God's Kingdom on Earth, but he did not believe in things like the Rapture or Tribulation; those are purely Protestant Fundamentalist beliefs. So, there's no Rapture or Tribulation here as you will find when and if you continue to read the series, which concentrates more on preparing for the war which no one knows when will happen rather than with the war itself. Thanks for leaving a comment, though. I appreciate you taking the time to do so.
MikoNoNyte · 9 May 2014 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves
I will begin this with a pointing finger and a shout: IT IS ALL YOUR FAULT!!!!! Yes, it is. It is your darned fault mentioning some composer that Daeron admires. Oh lookie there! someone I don't know. A few minutes later I am at Youtube and having my mind BLOWN! Morton Lauridsen's "Lux Aeterna" is beyond incredible. I have only an appreciation for Gregorian Chant (plainsong) style singing and never was one into Choral per se. But that one piece has changed my mind. So Thank you, and I repeat: IT IS ALL YOUR FAULT. *grins* Now, on to other matters. I really enjoyed the byplay between the characters, especially the Elrondionath and Glorfi. The whole "Do not make me regret allowing you to come," and their rejoinders sent me into giggles. You have captured with this all the humanity that is in these elves as well as their ancientness. Glorfindel's thought that perhaps it is their excitement and curiosity over living - not just existing! - in the Mortal World is a prime example of this. One wonders what would make such an ancient being even WANT to stay, but that oh-so-human 'what is over the next hill' kind of thinking would certainly contribute to remaining alive and healthy and not fading away. I also want to remark over your Wiseman. *blinks, laughs* You weren't kidding when you said you changed it to suit your purposes, but really, I looked at Wiseman and then looked at YOUR Wiseman and frankly, I like yours better. LOL There was so much here that entertained and opened up thoughts; I really was surprised and pleased at Daeron's method of helping Zach with his speech impediment. Way to go, Darren! And of course the pièce de résistance, the blizzard and subsequent Elvish revelation! You don't do things half way, Fiondil. Thank goodness! I felt a rushing thrill though me at Glorfindel's "You wanted Elves, Marian. Well, you’ve got them." After so long it seems that now, finally, the elves will STOP hiding. Be true to themselves. What a relief! *grins* I thank you for such a wonderful, warm story, Fiondil. And again, for the music recommendation. I must finish up "Sharpe's Triumph" before beginning another fanfic. But, to quote The Governator, * "I'll be back!". * The Governator: Arnold Schwarzenegger, once governor of California (my home state) and just another Hollywood actor who thought he could run this place. LOL
Author's reply
Hi MikoNoNyte. Laurisden's "Lux Aeterna" is sublime. I'm not much for choral music either but this piece is definitely at the top of the list. I'm glad you enjoyed this story and the interactions of the characters. This was a fun romp with the Elves trying to blend in and failing miserably and then in the end consciously deciding to reveal themselves to the mortals of Wiseman. I get shivers myself every time I read Glorfindel's words. When I was contemplating writing this story and needing a location for it, in consulting a map of Alaska, I found Wiseman and saw that it was above the Artic Circle. There are other communities around it, but I liked the name, so I borrowed it and its location but pretty much invented the rest of the town. I figured if in Finland they could have a city with a community college in Lapland, which is also above the Arctic Circle, then there was no reason why there couldn't be something similar in Alaska. Finland, of course, is much more developed than Alaska but that's a minor point. I'm glad you prefer my version of Wiseman to the real version, though. Too bad it doesn't really exist. *grin* Anyway, thanks for letting me know how much you enjoyed this story. I appreciate you taking the time to do so. And I hope you enjoy the rest of the series just as much.
Lindelea · 7 March 2014 · Chapter 1: Daeron’s Great Idea
How deliciously ironic! “Now I know how Julie Andrews must have felt in ‘Victor/Victoria’.” I was thinking the same thing, actually. Looking forward to reading more.
Author's reply
Hi Lindelea. I liked that line and the whole premise is ironic. Odd that you started reading Elf Academy 3 without first reading this one, but whatever. Enjoy.
Andrandiriel · 14 February 2014 · Chapter 4: Elf Etiquette and Other Lessons
You have no idea how happy it makes me that you cite Vinyar Tengwar and Parma Eldalamberon as sources. I should become an E.L.F. member again... My aunt gave me my first year of membership for Christmas when I was in 8th grade. I renewed a couple years when I was in high school, but haven't seen any of those publications since. Good times.
Author's reply
Hi Andi. You will find me quoting from Vinya Tengwar and Parma Eldalamberon quite often. I have most of them and refer to them constantly for my stories. I also utilize the Histories of Middle-earth mainly because Tolkien often provided more detailed descriptions of people and places that were left out of the Silmarillion and other writings. I hope you are enjoying this series. I'm sure you will get all caught up with it soon enough and perhaps you'll even take a look at some of my other stories along the way. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate you doing so very much.
Andrandiriel · 14 February 2014 · Chapter 2: Welcome to the Northern Lights
Okay, can we just talk about Glorfindel having a mini-van? And everyone being totally in awe of him and getting all stuttery? And just... ELF ROAD TRIP TO ALASKA! That'd be a fun fic in and of itself. THEIR ROOMMATES ARE ALL SO CUTE! I'm... curious to see if Mithrellas gets over herself and starts becoming less willfully ignorant about all things mortal. Doesn't seem likely, but I guess nothing's impossible. I also kind of want Jud to be friends with the twins. I very much look forward to whatever epic, half-million-word monstrosity this story turns into (or rather, discovering what it has already turned into without my knowledge) -Andie
Author's reply
Hi Andie. What can I say? Glorfindel is modern and he's cool. LOL! As for Misty, she's putting on an act, I think. After all, she's been hanging out in the mortal world for ages now. Glad you think the roomies are so cute, and yes, you can be sure that Jud will be friends with the Twins. I'm glad you are looking forward to reading more. Thanks for taking the time to leave a review. It's very much appreciated.
Andrandiriel · 14 February 2014 · Chapter 1: Daeron’s Great Idea
There's an elf yule school in Finland?! THAT IS AMAZING. My friend tells me that in Elf Academy 3, you have the elves take the Myers-Briggs, and that one of your OCs with whom I share a type (INTP) is frighteningly similar to me in academic interests as well as personality. Figured I'd give this a shot. I anticipate that if I fail my classes this semester, it will be your my own fault because I will be reading this story instead of studying. Because looking at the number of chapters, I'm going to be spending a LOT of time reading.
Author's reply
Hello Andrandiriel. Welcome to the Elf Academy series. Sarah said you and Valandur shared the same type. I hope you enjoy the series. People seem to have a lot of fun with it and I have a lot of fun writing it. And I refuse to take any blame for your inability to get all As in your courses because you're too busy reading my stories. LOL! Thanks awfully for taking the time to drop a review. I look forward to reading other reviews from you whenever you feel like leaving one. Happy reading!
Legolin · 24 December 2013 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves
This series was such a great read! I wish this could really happen lol who knows, anything is possible right? Thank you for writing such a unique story! I'm off to read part two! Happy Holidays! Sincerely, Legolin
Author's reply
So glad you enjoyed this story, Legolin, and I hope you find the rest of the series just as enjoyable. Thanks for letting me know. I really appreciate it. Happy Holidays!
Legolin · 19 December 2013 · Chapter 6: So Which One of These Is Rudolph?
Hi Fiondil, I just wanted to post a review about how much I'm enjoying this series! So far chapter 6 is my absolute favorite. The part where Elrohir and Elladan started singing the Rudolph tune and changed the names cracked me up! I can't wait to read the next chapters. Thank you for writing such an enjoyable story, picturing Glorfindel buttering Italian bread was priceless. Yours truly, Legolin
Author's reply
Hello, Legolin. I'm glad you are enjoying this story. This chapter was a lot of fun to write, for obvious reasons. I hope you enjoy the rest of the series. Glorfindel doing anything domestic is priceless. *grin* Thanks for taking the time to leave a review. I appreciate it very much. *waves from across the room* LOL!
Twoflower2 · 10 June 2013 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves
Thank you for this story, I had great fun reading it. The interplay between the mundane and the esoteric was thrilling. I am only surprised nobody among the mortals suspected anything right until the very moment the Elves chose to reveal themselves, what with all this talking to wolves and archery feats. Also strange that there seemed to be no LOTR fans in the college. There always are some in any big crowd :)
Author's reply
Hi Twoflower2. I'm glad that you had fun reading this. It was a lot of fun to write. In the Elf Academy universe, Tolkien did not live to write the Hobbit or LOTR or anything else. This makes it easier for me as a writer not to have to deal with Tolkien fans cluttering up the pages. *grin* Thanks for letting me know how much you enjoyed this story. I appreciate it.
Laikwalâsse · 20 December 2012 · Chapter 20: The Return of the Elves
Aramageddon? That´s the next drumbeat I have never thought about. Not a simple next war - no, Armageddon! What an amazing idea. First I agreed with the mortal that swords will not help much in the face of nuclear weapons but Glorfindel´s answer made me shudden: this war will be fought under other conditions. Hope I can cover all these coming capters of "Elf Academy II" quick enough to find out. So enough of this I have to look out for the Elves in my surroundings and until I have found one I wish you a very peaceful and reflective Christman and a good start into the new year. Thank you for an amazing read. Lai (P.S. I have seen a video on you tube: eurasia travel; is that you?)
Author's reply
Hi Lai. The Elves called it the Dagor Dagorath, literally 'battle of battles' and this is the whole point of Elf Academy. Part Two shows how the Elves use Elf Academy to train the Mortals who attend without them realizing that that is what is happening. I'm glad you enjoyed this story and I hope you enjoy Part Two as well. And now, the YouTube video is not me. I don't do YouTube or anything of the like. Sorry. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it.
Laikwalâsse · 19 December 2012 · Chapter 19: An Unexpected Encounter
gulp! I have anticipated a lot of things, but not THIS!! Why have they not come to my university years ago? Damm it! A war is coming? Training the mortals as warriors? Now I´m really intrigued and can´t hardly wait to ready the second part. Oh Fiondil, you have outdone yourself. What a wonderful idea. Where are the elves in Bavaria or Germany? We could need them as badly as well. So much stupidity abroad. Love this story so much and it had given me some comfort and hope that maybe, only mayby there are some elves around watching and guiding us!? I´m crazy I know and much too old for such fanzies. Lai
Author's reply
Hi Lai. I don't think any of the readers anticipated the fact that the Elves are in Wiseman to start training the Mortals for the Last Battle, but that's what it's all about and in the next installment you will see how that is going. I'm glad you enjoyed this and I would like to think that there are some Elves around as well. Thanks for reviewing. I greatly appreciate it.
Laikwalasse · 19 December 2012 · Chapter 18: Blizzard
"but then, I’m not a Man"....uh, that was brave but the right thing to do at the right time. How I wished to have elves in our midst even if I would feel so small in their presence. I´m eager to know how this will turn out and if our six will not get into any trouble with the authorities like CIA, FBI, NASA or something worse. By now even the greatest fool must have recognized that something is different with these six. Hope they will find poor Zack and his family in time...but what I´m talking about with Glorfindel involved..... I liked how formally Daeron adressed the warrior. Lai
Author's reply
Hi Lai. The "Great Reveal" was inevitable and we'll see in Elf Academy 2 how the government gets involved. And with Glorfindel involved, Zach and the others are as good as found. *grin* I thought Daeron's formality appropriate to the occasion. Thanks for reviewing. I greatly appreciate it.
Laikwalasse · 19 December 2012 · Chapter 17: Final Exam
poor other students. Compared to Glorfindel they stand not really a chance. He´s just an original. The trainer however seemed to suspect something. I feel that Glorfinel is really enjoying this; he´s finally able to talk freely of being an elf, even able to sing the hymn of Elbereth and hinting at the Valar. It´s the job of his life. I liked how he treated the children. This day will be forever in their memories - and in mine. Thank you for a lovely chapter. Lai
Author's reply
Well, as the man said, each student is judge on his or her own merits, so I wouldn't worry about them too much, Lai. You are right, though, that Glorfindel is having a lot of fun being himself even if no one realizes it. Thanks for reviewing. It's much appreciated.
Laikwalâsse · 17 December 2012 · Chapter 16: Dear Santa
to what event is Glorfindel referring with using powerful words that cost many lives? *shudder*. Liked the signing of the letters. Trust Glorfindel to draw the mortals more and more into his world. I want to get a "G" on a singed letter too...*weeeh*. It was so touching of Glrofindel to care for poor Zack. The lullaby was impressing, just like something Elrond would have done. I like your Glorfindel more and more from each chapter to the next. He is awesome,stern, lovable, terryfying and so much more things in between....amazing, really. Have to read Elf Academy II and Elf interrupted.....Lai
Author's reply
Hi Lai. You would have to read Elf, Interrupted: Book One, to find out about Glorfindel's use of Words of Power. No one died, fortunately, but it was a near thing. Anyway, Glorfindel is indeed drawing the Mortals more and more into his world without half trying. We'll see how that goes in the future. I'm glad you like Glorfindel in this. He is truly awesome. Thanks for leaving a comment. I really appreciate it.
Anonymous · 16 December 2012 · Chapter 15: ‘Poor Jud Is Dead’
a local snowstorm, eh? I liked the saying that on halloween the barriers between the worlds are thin. Never heard of that, because haloween is not really celebrated in Germany, at least not like in America. A perfect night also for our elves to hope that they are watched from "the other side" - a somehow comforting thought. Elves looking like elves on the costume festival - how lovely. I wished I could have been there. Thank you for another interesting chapter. Lai P.S. already seen the Hobbit? It was so great, wasn´t it? Jackson has again outdone himself!I liked Thranduil, even if his appearance was far away from what I imagined.....
Author's reply
Hi Lai, The idea of the barriers between the worlds thinning on that particular night comes from the Celtic Samhain, one of the four days during the year when this happens. Halloween, being a descedant of Samhain, incorporated that concept. Anyway, it was a perfect night for the Elves' to hope that their friends and loved ones were watching them from 'the other side'. Yes, I saw the Hobbit this past weekend (you guys got it before we did) and loved it as well. It will be interesting to see Thranduil up close when we get to that part of the story. I loved that he was riding what appeared to be a giant elk. Thanks for leaving a review and for lettng me know that you were the one writing it. I appreciate it.
Laikwalâsse · 13 December 2012 · Chapter 14: Into the Wilderness
as funny as all the chapters are Glorfindel always make me re-think. Finrod...a king of honor - how true. The introduction of Glorfindel was again funny and yet very serious - really paradox and a bit sad. The encounter with the wolves I liked the most and again we saw why we do all love our golden warrior. THank you for a amusing and reflecting evening read. Lai
Author's reply
Hi Lai. I liked the encounter with the wolves, too. I'm glad you found the chapter both amusing and thought-provoking. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.
Laikwalâssê · 13 December 2012 · Chapter 13: ‘Pine Cone’ Is Not an Elvish Name!
what a relief for our elves to use their real names, even if no one will recognize it. A black Galadriel and a stuttering Finrod - what a wonderful idea. Thank you so much for another really entertaining chapter. Lai
Author's reply
Yes, it must be a relief to be able to use their proper names even if no one else realizes it. I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter, Lai. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.
Laikwalâssê · 13 December 2012 · Chapter 12: The Second Half of the Term Begins
Our warrior a member of SAR - how fitting! I want to be rescued, yes! Glorfindel will be smart enough to find out who is behind Esther, is he? LOL!
Author's reply
It does seem appropriate, doesn't it? Glorfindel was always rescuing someone. As for figuring out who Esther is... that remains to be seen. Thanks for reviewing, Lai.
Laikwalâsse · 9 December 2012 · Chapter 10: Winterdark Tarn
what or whom has Glorfindel discovered? Another lost elf? I´m looking forward to find out. Lai
Author's reply
We'll find out eventually, Lai. Thanks for reviewing.
Laikwalâsse · 9 December 2012 · Chapter 9: Red Is So Not My Color
we often forget that Glorfndel is one of the really old! His anger at the outfits was understandable and frightening. The poor teacher has not grasped the danger, I fear. I liked Glorfndel´s reaction: quiet, controlled but determined.
Author's reply
Yes, Glorfindel is one of the really old Elves and the teachers have no idea the danger they are in. A wrathful Glorfindel is not someone you want to meet in a dark alley or even in broad daylight. *grin* Thanks for commenting. It's appreciated.
Laikwalâsse · 9 December 2012 · Chapter 5: Elf Legends and Legendary Elves
“Where did the elves come from anyway? They’re not in the Bible.” “Thank the Valar,” Glorfindel heard Elrohir whisper.. hilarious. What a great idea this story is! I especially like your "history lessons". I have never thought about what the rendeer have to do with the old northern legens about Odin. Thank you for a wonderful read. Lai
Author's reply
Hi Lai. I'm glad you like the history lessons. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.
Laikwalâsse · 9 December 2012 · Chapter 1: Daeron’s Great Idea
indeed, what a great idea od Daeron, yet I´m not familiar with the custom of "elves" helping Stanta Claus? We await the christmas child bringing the gifts on christmas eve. Nonetheles a wonderful start to your story. I´m finding it a bit hard to imagine our elves in modern times with micro wave and CD, but amusing nonetheless. Lai
Author's reply
Hi Lai. The idea that Santa is helped by elves is probably English in origin and then it spread to America and into the Scandinavian countries. And the idea of Elves in the modern world does get some getting used to, but it's all in fun and not to be taken too seriously. Thanks for reviewing.