A Long-Expected Wedding by Fiondil

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galathil · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

Hi Fiondil. I have just read all the other reveiws and I agree with every one of them.So I am just dropping this line,to let you know that I am throughly enjoying the story. However if I was Namo I would take a long long holiday say for a hundred years,but then he would be missing out on all the fun.(or headache)depends on your point of veiw.LOL Galathil

Author's reply

Hi Galatil. I think Námo would need much longer than a mere 100 years to recover from the Dynamic Duo and their escapades. He's probably perusing "Valarin Travels" right now, looking for a nice blue sun to curl up to until it goes supernova in a few billion years. LOL! Thanks for reading and taking the time to let me know how much you are enjoying this story. I appreciate it very much.

Tkid · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

Poor Finrod - with everything that has happened he can't be looking forward to the wedding. It has become something to endure rather than happily anticipate. His wedding guests snigger at him, and he can't trust the kitchen staff wih the menu - not if they are actively sabotaging his cooking efforts. And Glorfindel-it is no wonder he remained in middle earth as long as he did when he went back.

Author's reply

Hi TKid. Well, the wedding is still some weeks away and maybe things will get better for Finrod. And Glorfindel... well, he's just being himself, nothing more, nothing less and nothing else. And that's why we all love him, isn't it? LOL! Thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.

Erulisse (one L) · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

OK, now I am confused. Marila. I seem to recall (and I'm tired, so I may not remember correctly) that she was the maia in charge of Nienna's kitchens. I suppose I could check my EI2 copy, but I'm already running behind on my errands for the day. Anyway, if that is the case, surely Glorfindel would recognize her from his time at Nienna's, and perhaps Vondo and Vorondil, although you do have them conveniently away on a camping trip. Also, you have Namo reminding the ellons about the destruction of the Lorien grove, but what about the Tournament and the dimensional shift. That was later than the grove, wasn't it? As I said, I may be remembering incorrectly, but... I adore the way this is developing. Now, maybe it's time to return to wedding planning... - Erulisse (one L)

Author's reply

Hi Eurlisse. Marilla is a rather common name in Quenya, meaning "Pearl". Marilliën is an alternate form of the name and is the name of Nienna's Maia. The two characters are not necessarily the same. It's like having girls named Margaret, Margot, Margaritta, etc. Their all are versions of one another. And if by chance Marilla and Marilliën are one and the same, keep in mind that the Maiar and Valar, being spiritual beings, can take on any shape or disguise they please. The events of the Tournament occurred before the destruction of the grove in Lórien and it's to that that Námo refers because the fight in the grove was set off by anger while the debacle at the Tournament was not anyone's fault. Glad you are enjoying how this story is developing. There is plenty more to come, I promise. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

Anonymous · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

this outburst was to be expected and maybe intended. I can sympazise with Glorfindel but I feel sorry for Finrod. Isildil should be removed however, despite his abilities. Poor kitched stuff should he return. The "trial" was necessary to get both ellon back to the ground. Who is this Marilla? Eager to find out. Liled this chapter very much. Thank you. Lai

Author's reply

No problem Lai. Since you signed the review, I knew who wrote it. I'm glad you feel sorry for Finrod; he's been having a rough time of it with Glorfindel snubbing him on top of everything else. Hopefully, this little chat with Námo has straightened Glorfindel out and things between them will be smoother. We'll find out who Marilla is eventually. Glad you liked the chapter. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate you taking the time to do both.

AzureSkye · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

Well, I officially have my computer back, and have caught up, so I can start reviewing again! If Marilla is who I think she is, or even if she isn't, Glorfindel's frustrations where pushed to the fore on purpose. I suppose it was better resolved now, than causing trouble down the road. Glofindel and Finrod are just a little too alike to always get along. About that mountain tarn...Is it the same one from In Darkness Bound? The one in...oh,(runs to check reference) Chapter 25? Wonderful chapter as always. Can't wait to see how this little stint clears up, and what future trouble is down the road--especially when Sador gets there. *grin* I'm also mildly curious as to what the other elves listening to this tale are thinking....

Author's reply

Hi AzureSkye. You may be correct about Glorfindel's frustrations being purposely pushed to the fore when they were. And you are correct that he and Finrod are a little too alike to always get along. And you are very perceptive, for yes, the mountain tarn in question is indeed the very one mentioned in chapter 25 of "In Darkness Bound". You get an extra gold star for that. *LOL!* Eventually we will learn of the reaction of the Elves listening to Glorfindel's tale, but probabl not until the entire tale is told. I imagine though that some are trying to resolve the image of the Finrod they knew with the image Glorfindel is painting for them and coming up short. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

Larner · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

Isildil's own attitude probably was the reason he got the worst duties. As for his plans for revenge--that doesn't reflect well on his suitability as head cook. Poor guy didn't deserve the beating he got, but he certainly did deserve his comeuppance. But to learn that the others in the kitchen have been sabotaging Finrod's work is disheartening.

Author's reply

You're right about Isildil and his attitude making things worse for himself, Larner. And it is disheartening to know that others are just as mean-spirited. I suspect they will be a long time getting their masterships after this. Tanks for taking the time to read and reiview. I appreciate you doing so very much.

Sunny · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

So it takes Námo having a little talk with the Dynamic Duo to get them to kiss and make up. But I suppose it was almost inevitable that the situation with the two of them would blow up in some way - and considering what they did to that grove in Lórien, who know what kind of damage they could have caused if they had started a fight somewhere in Tírion? The mind boggles. I can actually think about someone else who might benefit from one of Námo's little talks just about now - it's a real pity the Valar are only fictional.

Author's reply

Hi Sunny. I agree that it's a pity the Valar (and the Maiar) aren't real (at least in the way I've portrayed them). Too bad. I know a few people myself who might benefit from a little heart-to-heart with Námo, too. *grin* Thanks for taking the time to read and review. I appreciate you doing so very much.

Fantasia · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

I only will say that planning a wedding makes everybody crazy. It gets so out of control and overcomplicated, no wonder they all are acting strange. Why the kitchen staff will treat Finrod in that way and the lesser nobles too? He is a prince after all, are they no afraid of his revenge? I really don't care what happens to the Royal Cook, what a cretin he is.

Author's reply

Hi Fantasia. And we're seeing some of the craziness being manifested right before our eyes. *LOL!* I think Finrod is too noble to bother to get revenge over the pettiness of others. As for Isildil... his fate is yet to be determined. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it.

6336 · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

Well that was a little unexpected, but knowing Glorfindel and his maturity issues it is understandable, he's only been reborn what, about 15 to 20 years at this time? One almost feels sorry for Isildil, he did do it to himslef though. As for the rest of the kitchen staff I am surprised at their attitude, why they should pick on Finderato in this way is beyond me, unless they are afraid that if and when Isildil gets his job back he will be even more unbearable. Shame on the rest of the population of the palace, to tease their Prince in this way is a little childish. I think Earwen should have tried to teach them embroidery, Lazy Daisy and Backstich are very easy after all and you can do a lot with just those two stitches and with their eyes on their work they would not have had the opportunity to glower at each other! Is Marilla related to Nienna's head cook? Huggs, Lynda

Author's reply

Hi Lynda. You're right, Glorfindel has only been reborn for about 15 years or so. I think some (not all) of the kitchen staff may feel that Isildil shouldn't have been demoted as he was and blame Finrod and are taking it out on him. The rest of the palace population is just being mean, seeing their prince brought low. Of course, it's not everyone doing these things, just a few who enjoy seeing others shamed. Lazy Daisy and backstitch are certainly very versatile stitches, along with satin stitch and fly stitch. Between these 4 stitches you can make anything from butterflies to flowers. Alas, I think Eärwen and her ladies just didn't want males around spoiling their fun. *grin* As for Marilla.... who she is remains to be seen. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

Kaylee Arafinwiel · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

Well, things finally came to a head, didn't they? And at least Namo intervened. I should have known Marilla...or should I say (at a guess) Marilliën? *raises eyebrow at that* was not exactly a normal Head Cook...Well, there you go, that's my guess. :D I'm so glad Glorfindel's finally left off the "bassoneth" nonsense. And I do hope Marilla...ien...*tries the guess again* is more understanding to the ellyn now. Isildil's an idiot, by the way. *pokes him* Tye-melin, Atto! Kaylee P.S. I'm spending time with my Adar today. I need all the good wishes I can get. Assuming he stays in a good mood, we're to go see Deathly Hallows part 2 today. And he bought me a 20 dollar floor lamp at the thrift shop, because he decided I needed one. Ada is so weird, Atto. This is why I like you better. =P Though I do love him very much too, he just confuses me. You're not confusing like that.

Author's reply

Hi Kaylee. Yes, it finally has come to a head and not a minute too soon. We'll see how things work out for our heroes now that the air has been cleared. As for Marilla.... ah, that would be telling, now, wouldn't it? *grin* Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much. Tye-melin.

Shemyaza · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

Are we absolutely sure that either of these two are adult enough to join the grown up world? Especially Findarato who is on the point of marrying someone, possibly one of the most serious undertakings of his life. They are both acting like snot-nosed kids to be honest and a good slap around the earhole wouldn't come amiss. I am sure that the Valar really appreciate being dragged away to deal with their infantile histrionics. If Findarato really wanted to play a part in the wedding arrangments, which, let's face it, most blokes don't, then he should have got the various parents plus his intended together and told them so. The lad obviously doesn't have enough to do with his time. Perhaps he needs a few orcs to kill? Hard to believe that this lad was the King of Nargothrond and a foe of Melkor. Surely he's been out of Mandos long enough to have gained some sort of emotional stability?

Author's reply

Hi Shemyaza. I can see where Glorfindel still needs time to mature, but I'm not sure why you are down on poor Finrod. He's been doing his best to toe the line but Glorfindel and everyone else haven't made it easy for him and this whole incident just blew up. But I'm sure you are correct that Námo probably had more important things to do than deal with these two as he had to. And you are correct that Finrod should have gotten the two families together to discuss the wedding, but then, if he'd done the smart thing, there wouldn't be a story, would there? LOL! Anyway, surrounded as he is by very young Reborn, and knowing that once married he'll have to settle down completely, I think Finrod just needs this time to 'act up' and get it out of his system and Amarië isn't around to keep him in line. Anyway, we'll see how things work out for them all eventually. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I am very glad that you are able to.

Eliza · 27 July 2011 · Chapter 8: In Which There is Rebellion in the Ranks and a Trial is Held

I am suddenly very glad my teenagers are off to college. Poor Namo, he must have a roaring headache by now. No one can pull off "sulky" and "whiny" like a teen who feels they have been wronged. LOL, enjoyable as always.

Author's reply

Hi Eliza. I'm sure Vairë had the alka-seltzer ready as soon as Námo got home. LOL! Glad you are still enjoying this little tale. Thanks for letting me know. I really appreciate it.

Larner · 26 July 2011 · Chapter 7: In Which the Palace Gets a New Head Cook and Finrod Gets a New Title

Well, at least Finrod is now the equal of his sister! Heh! I'm certain she'll get a much enjoyed laugh out of it whenever Glorfindel tells her of it, whether it's here in the Mortal Lands or there in Aman. Ah, dear--a much needed light time, and I do find myself considering just who might have come under the name of "Pearl" to serve as head cook. And that Isildil is behaving as childishly as he is does not bode well for his chances at returning to his former glory, does it?

Author's reply

I'm sure Galadriel got a kick out of learning about this from Glorfindel and when she finally returns to Aman she'll most likely take great pleasure in teasing her older brother about it. We will see more of Marilla and learn of her significance as the story progresses. And yes, Isildil is behaving rather badly. But some people never really learn. Thanks for reading and reviewing, Larner. I appreciate it very much.

Larner · 26 July 2011 · Chapter 6: In Which Lies are Revealed and the Doom of Arafinwë Falls Upon Our Heroes

Not a wise idea, behaving as he did and assuming childish behavior from Finrod while responding like a spoiled brat himself. I almost hope he gets sacked for good! And it won't hurt any of them to serve on the bottom of the ladder for a while, which Finrod and Glorfindel know from the beginning.

Author's reply

Very true, Larner. Finrod and Glorfindel, at least, have the benefit of experiencing serving at the bottom of the ladder and do not find anything menial or shameful about it, but Isildil, now that he's a master of his guild, probably feels that such things are now beneath him. Unfortunately, there are lots of people in positions of power who think the same way, so he is not unique. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

Ta · 24 July 2011 · Chapter 4: In Which Information is Gathered and Further Plans are Made

The plot thickens. This is going to be one very interesting wedding. Even the Valar have to be chuckling.

Author's reply

I'm sure they are Tari. And I'm glad you are enjoying the story. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it.

Tari · 22 July 2011 · Chapter 3: In Which a Conspiracy is Formed and Plans are Laid

What fun!!! Can't wait to find out who the witness is.

Author's reply

We'll learn the identity of the 'witness' eventually, Tari. Glad you enjoyed this chapter. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it very much.

Tigger · 21 July 2011 · Chapter 7: In Which the Palace Gets a New Head Cook and Finrod Gets a New Title

Mistress Marilla? You aren't an Anne of Green Gables fan are you by any chance? Just wondering...As that name is one of the major characters in one of my *other* treasured and beloved book series, my eyes lit up when reading last night. I've actually had the privledge of visiting Green Gables and in turn, visiting L.M. Montgomery's gravesite. I hope to have the same prviledge someday when it comes to visiting/paying my respects to the Professor's gravesite. Anyway... Poor Vorondil. He really is still having problems w/his confidence, isn't he the poor thing. Thankfully, he's "attached" to the right Family when it comes to treating those near and dear to them w/love and understanding. Loved how Finrod approched his Mother and how the Queen then in turn handled the entire situation. I think that little hair pin will end up being the best gift Her Majesty recieved that year and for many different reasons. :o) Glorfindel noticing how the Staff was *not* taking Isildil's dressing down of Finrod well...Why do I have the feeling that little fact will be filed away for future use? Arafinwe needs to know that after all, but I don't think Glorfindel will say anything until and unless he has to. It's also another sign in just what the overall feelings towards Isildil by his Staff is. As I said last week, people like that who are in charge, don't use the people under them well. If at all. I'm also sure that Isidil's uppitty insulted manner of recieving the Queen's praise, which was justified after the damage done by the Boys eariler and should have been recieved w/more grace, didn't go unnoticed either by the King. So, Isildi's been the Head Cook of one of the more sought after positions among the Eldar residences of Aman, yet he only has one star? Which he obtained on his Mastery and only then? Interesting...That to me says quite a bit right there. Or maybe it's just me seeing something that isn't there, but I don't think so... ;o) Love how Marilla took charge right away and how Isildil ended up being the one scrubbing the pots. I don't think Marilla would treat him the way he was treating Finrod however. Not that the twit'll see that. Oh and Finrod's right. Baking bread is *very* hard work. Kneading it...You discover shoulder muscles and ligaments you never knew you possessed before. :o) I just wish mine turned out like my Mom's. For some odd and unknown reason, I end up killing the yeast. I've tried and tried and she's even watched me do it, but...I still end up w/heavy bread that's better used for a door stop. :o/ I can also see Glorfindel eating every other Ginger Biscuit. I know I have a hard time myself not doing that when making Ginger Snaps, so... :o) So long as he takes some to Vondo, then it's okay. :oD As for the chase...Nothing to see here. Just the two of them being themselves. ;oD ROTFLOL!!! Glorfi had better hope Finrod doesn't catch him. After all, didn't Namo once say he'd just toss Glorfindel back out if he ever darkened Mandos again? Then Finrod would have to face Namo and I don't think he wants to do that again either. ;oD Sigh...I wish I and everyone else didn't have to wait until next Wednesday for the next chapter. So enjoying this so very much. Hope you're not suffering w/this wicked and wild heat that we here in Ontario are dealing w/. I never, ever, thought I'd see temps of 43 Celcius around here, but... Take Care!! (((HUGS)))

Author's reply

Hi Tigger. Never read Anne of Green Gables and I doubt Tolkien did either. Marilla is,according to the Professor, the Quenya for 'pearl' and so, would be considered a cognate of the real-world name 'Margaret' with the same meaning. Isildil is not that unique. Most masters in any guild would have but one 'star'; receiving more than one means that they've been at it for a long time. You could consider it the equivalent of receiving a black belt then working for a second-degree black belt and then a third-degree black belt, etc. but once you're a black belt, you're a black belt. So the same with becoming a guild master. Vorondil is still very young, the equivalent of someone in their early 20s and so he has confidence issues as most young people do. But you are right that he is attached to the right 'Family' who will help him and nurture him which is why the Valar gave him to Finrod in the first place. And I'm sure when and if Finrod catches up with Glorfindel they'll both be too exhausted from the chase to do anything to one another. *grin* Glad you are enjoying this story, Tigger, and I'm sorry to make everyone wait a week, but that's what my schedule allows and once a week is better than once a month, isn't it? Anyway, it's almost as hot here in central New York. We did reach 100 F (38 C) yesterday with a heat index (feels like) of 110 (43), breaking the record for the day. Hopefully it'll begin to cool off soon. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate you doing so.

bookworm · 21 July 2011 · Chapter 7: In Which the Palace Gets a New Head Cook and Finrod Gets a New Title

Why do I have the feeling that Glorfindel will be eating as many ginger cookies as he bakes? Also I love how the palace staff have become so immune to their antics they just ignore them now. Looking forward to seeing more of Mistress Marilla too!

Author's reply

Hi bookworm. You may be right about that, but that's half the fun of making them. LOL! And after all these years, I would think the palace staff would be blasé about their antics. We'll see more of Mistress Marilla, never fear! Thhanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

Alquawende · 20 July 2011 · Chapter 7: In Which the Palace Gets a New Head Cook and Finrod Gets a New Title

This has been quite fun to read. I do feel rather sorry for Isildil though because Finrod and his friends were interfering and did cause the mess. Isildil was just doing what he was told to do, even if he is rather a jerk. I do hope Finrod and Glorfindel suffer more than just a light, I think, punishment for their actions under the new head cook. When will Amarie appear in the story? I hope we get to see her soon. Thanks for writing, Fiondil!

Author's reply

Hi Alquawende. Well, I don't think Finrod was actually interfering, he was asking a legitimate question concerning the wedding menu; it was Isidil's attitude and the fact that he lied about it that has gotten him into trouble. As for Finrod and Glorfindel...we'll see what happens to them in the next chapter. And Amarië will appear, I promise, but not immediately, as the wedding is still over a month away. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

6336 · 20 July 2011 · Chapter 7: In Which the Palace Gets a New Head Cook and Finrod Gets a New Title

Some how I don't think bashing pots and scrubbing floors is going to work with Isildil, I think he needs a stint with Nienna, she would soon knock him down to size! (Just realised this is a baking term!) I liked the way Finrod and Earwen handeled Vorondil's gift, he still has some esteem issues but, both he and his uncle are doing much better. I am glad Earwen is welcoming Finrod's help with wedding, it is his wedding and Amnarie's after all! I hope Glorfi can run fast enough otherwise he will end up cluttering up Mandos, again, Namo will not be amused! I take it calling him 'bassoneth' is equivalent to calling Finrod 'Hiril Finrod'? Huggs, Lynda

Author's reply

Hi Lynda. You may be right that Isildil needs to spend some time with Nienna. But, of course, that's the Valar's call and not Arafinwë or any of the Elves. Vorondil is still quite young, only just past his majority and he was regressed emotionally so he still has some catching up to do, but he's probably more mature than his Reborn uncle at this point. And yes, 'bassoneth' is the equivalent 'hiril' so it isn't a compliment, at least not for Finrod. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

Sunny · 20 July 2011 · Chapter 7: In Which the Palace Gets a New Head Cook and Finrod Gets a New Title

So Vorondil's gift was appreciated. And I am certainly one who can certainly appreciate a good-looking hair ornament! ;-) Isildil's attitude of wanting to lord it over the rest of the kitchen staff - and Finrod and Glorfindel - certainly isn't particularly promising. The Dynamic Duo jumping in to start helping with clearing up after the feast shows considerably more promise! Hopefully they will be reasonably well behaved, but I suppose it will be too much to hope for that they will not take the opportunity for creating a bit of fun while doing kitchen work. Assigning the two of them to different tasks should help a bit with that. :-)

Author's reply

Hi Sunny. I doubt if the Dynamic Duo will want to cause any more trouble and get into even hotter water with Arafinwë than they already are but we'll see how they fare in the kitchen, at least for another chapter or two. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. I greatly appreciate it.

Erulisse (one L) · 18 July 2011 · Chapter 6: In Which Lies are Revealed and the Doom of Arafinwë Falls Upon Our Heroes

I finally returned home from my latest conference and am busy catching up with your chapters. Oh dear, they really managed to cause quite the fuss, didn't they? I suspect that the punishment will teach all concerned about the points of view of the opposite sides, and I hope that Finrod's desire to actually be an active participant in his wedding planning will be understood, and celebrated. It is important for him and Amarie both. I look forward to this coming Wednesday. Now to catch up with many chapters of In Darkness... - Erulisse (one L)

Author's reply

Hi Erulisse. Glad to have you back and I hope your conference went well. We will see just what is learned by everyone eventually as well as whether Finrod's attempts to have a say in his own wedding are taken seriously. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it.

Tari · 18 July 2011 · Chapter 2: In Which Invitations are Sent and the Valar are Amused

Very wise is our Glorfindel. He couldn't have given a better gift to the Valar, but will Eärwen see it that way or will she become very upset.

Author's reply

Hi Tari. I'm sure the Valar will treasure the invitations for years to come. As to how Eärwen will react once she finds out what Glorfindel and Finrod have done remains to be seen. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.

6336 · 14 July 2011 · Chapter 6: In Which Lies are Revealed and the Doom of Arafinwë Falls Upon Our Heroes

You and your Muse should come with a warning label, Caution, reading this story could be hazardus to your sanity and your computer! Since every body seems to be intent on apologising to their Better Halfs for not letting them assist in the wedding plans, I had a good excuse, he was out of the country until the week before the wedding and even then he was most helpfull in gathering libations for it! I am enjoying this so much, since I did not get to help plan my daughters wedding, she eloped! (Little Stinker!) Now I have to wait another whole week for the next chapter, even though I.D.B. is coming faster, you and your Muse can be very cruel sometimes, making us wait like this, but, I love you any way! Huggs, Lynda

Author's reply

Hi again, Lynda. I'm glad to know you are enjoying this story so much and it's nice to know one is loved. LOL! I appreciate your loyalty as a reader and reviewer. I always look forward to your comments.

Serindë · 14 July 2011 · Chapter 6: In Which Lies are Revealed and the Doom of Arafinwë Falls Upon Our Heroes

Oh dear, oh dear. I had the feeling that the figure lurking in the shadows had to be the King. It was the royal garden after all, the gardeners were probably enjoying evening with their families and the Queen was to busy with all the wedding preparation. And a pale rose satin with yellow-green brocade? It is a nice combination, but for the groom? And moreover for the groom with Finrod's colouring? Whose bright idea was that? The balrog's? And the Queen has not still be informed to expect 14 additional guests at the wedding. And aran Finrod started a battle in the kitchen? It is something I would expect more from Glorfi. On the other hand, I suppose, it was better idea than the obvious solution - to mop the floor with the Cook. And where is the Cook coming from? He does not know Amarië's food preferences (she has been living in Tirion for long years) and he does not know the food preferences of the King? I originally thought that he was in the league with Arafinwë and he was winding up Finrod purposely. How can anybody be so stupid? I had the feeling that Finrod and co. would probably end in the kitchen for some time. They should not mind very much. Glorfi must be used from Turgon's times and I suppose Finrod did not have very much choice in the middle of grinding ice than to do everything which was needed. But embroidery? It could be classified as a cruel and unusual punishment. I can reasonably well do cross stitching, needle point and some pulled or counted embroidery (assisi, bargello, blackwork). I would like to start, thanks Glorfindel, some ribbon embroidery. It looks like a fun. So I have bought few books from Britain and my first kit combining cross stitch and ribbons from Russia (I had never heard about it previously and I have never met anybody doing it. I suppose because it was very difficult to buy even needles and some simple cotton yarns under the communist. To buy metallic yarns? Wishful thinking). But crewel, richelieu or needle painting are completely in different league. I have never learned it properly. Knowledge of basic sewing or even simple embroidery is no help here. So I think Glorfi underestimate the task. OK, Finrod could had been also more clever and instead saying that the Queen has sent him, he could had say something along the line that he would like to inform his wife-to-be ... so he would like to have the needed information. Or he could had simply informed his parents that a) they start to include him and his bride into planning of their own wedding or b) they can celebrate his wedding without him and his bride, because they two are going to have wedding according Sindars custom. The choice is theirs. I think Earwen will feel slightly guilty that she has not been listening to her son more attentively.

Author's reply

Hi Serindë. Though I'm a guy, I can do cross-stitch as well as other kinds of embroidery (blackwork, hardanger, assisi, bargello, pulled and drawn thread), and have even done some ribbon embroidery as well. *grin* As for the Cook... well, some people (even Elves) can be pretty stupid and arrogant about some things and we all know how tempermental chefs can be *grin*. We'll be seeing how Isildil and the Boys fare in the kitchen over the next couple of chapters. I'm glad you are enjoying this story and I appreciate you taking the time to leave comments. Thanks!