Elf Academy Part Deux by Fiondil

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Kitty · 20 July 2012 · Chapter 53: Rendevous at Wild Lake

Not sure what use these extra ID are, but hopefully, Alex knows what he's doing. It's his job, after all, I'm just a simple librarian. Alex is at least getting caught up on the camping trips he missed because of his numerous health problems lately. This trip even sounds much more fun and pleasant than the one that was on the official Academy schedule. Ha, I knew it, they are coming from Valinor with Vingilot! Hopeful with Eärendil at the wheel, as is his right, so the twins finally get to meet him, like Glorfindel said. But why did you have to wait for the next chapter to tell us who comes? *whines* Still hoping for Elrond and Celebrían, it would be so wonderful for the twins. Maybe even Celeborn and Galadriel, though I'm not too sure about them. But I'd like to have Finrod, Ingwion, Sador, Gilvagor and Laurendil, to get the old gang together again. Maybe even Haldir and some of the elflings ... all of them would be good for Glorfindel, I believe. Then there would be Legolas. And I wonder if that elf is with them Alex was dreaming about? It would explain why the Valar wanted the two Mortals there. Ok, ok, shutting up here before I start listing all my favourites. Can't wait for Monday! How am I supposed to survive a whole weekend now, I'm so full of anticipation and suspense!

Author's reply

Hi Kitty. We'll see just why Alex decided to provide him and Derek with false IDs in the next chapter. It will show that Alex always thinks ahead and maybe even had a premonition. And this camping trip is definitely more fun than the one Derek was on. We'll see who shows up on the ship. There will be familiar faces as well as new ones. I couldn't bring everyone I wanted so I had to be very choosy. Hopefully people won't be too disappointed if their 'favs' are not aboard. And I'm sure you'll survive just fine over the weekend. LOL! Thanks for reviewing. I really appreciate it.

Sunny · 20 July 2012 · Chapter 53: Rendevous at Wild Lake

So are there going to be reports of UFO sightings now? ;-) Heh. I suppose Alex just did not want to mention that he wanted to supply himself and Derek with false papers for the trip, so just covered it up with the label "personal stuff". I do hope Farrell stays hidden in his hole and doesn't decide to cause trouble for those remaining at Edhellond - though the ellith and Amroth should be able to deal with anybody trying to sneak in. And perhaps there is a Maia or two keeping an eye on things, just in case? It will be nice to see the meeting between Eärendil and his grandsons! And like everybody else I am really eager to know who is aboard that ship. I've mentioned the ones on top of my personal list, but perhaps various powers-that-be want to at least temporarily get rid of certain of Glorfindel's former partners-in-mischief? I am certain Finrod at least would do his very best to convince the Valar that he should be among those who should go. And are they going to bring along Glorfindel's best sword?

Author's reply

Hi Sunny. We'll have to see if there are any sightings mentioned. And I doubt Farrell will be able to cause trouble at Edhellond. As for who is on Vingilot, we'll start learning that over the next few chapters. And the deal with Glorfindel's best sword was that it would be kept for him until he returned to Aman and that will probably hold true even now, but, then again, you never know. Thanks for leaving a comment. It's always appreciated.

ellie · 20 July 2012 · Chapter 53: Rendevous at Wild Lake

this is a wonderful chapter with the preparations and the beautiful setting and the glorious approach of Vingilot. How wondrous that must be to hear elven voices from above as well as below and the light of the silmail shining down as the ship approaches.

Author's reply

I think you are right that it would be wondrous to hear the elven voices both from above and belwo with the light of the silmaril shining down upon them. Thanks, Ellie. I appreciate you taking the time to leave a review.

Whispy · 20 July 2012 · Chapter 53: Rendevous at Wild Lake

Whoo, camping funtimes...! I wouldn't mind going on a camping trip with the Elves. And here comes the Vinglot...But we still have to wait until the next chapter to see who's onboard! ACH! You know how to keep us hanging, don't you? Whispy

Author's reply

Hi Whispy. I wouldn't mind going camping with the Elves, either. *grin* Sorry about the cliffie, but I think you will appreciate why I left it as I did. You'll have all weekend to wonder who is aboard. *grin* Thanks for commenting. It's much appreciated.

UTfrog · 20 July 2012 · Chapter 53: Rendevous at Wild Lake

Beautiful chapter with the calm lake, camping, then the appearance of Vingilot. Well done! I won't even complain about the cliffhanger since I figured you would make us wait for that. Loved the lime about the twins meeting their grandfather. Now, who is on the ship? I know some readers want Finrod and friends which is great by me and especially if Elrond, Celebrian and Legolas come too. However, I want to be different/difficult. I want some mortals to join in. Even though Eru mostly has the Valar watching Arda, for something as important as the final battle (whenever it is), I think the Dunedain deserve a role, besides think of the reunion scene that you could write. Waiting eagerly for Monday, but deeply appreciative for today's update.

Author's reply

Hi UTfrog. I'm glad you found this a beautiful chapter. I don't think Eru would release any of the Mortals this soon, only when the Dagor Dagorath was upon them. That being said, we will see a number of old friends as well as some new faces. I won't be introducing everyone all at once, though. We'll meet the majority of them over several chapters as circumstances dictate. Thanks for the review. I greatly appreciate it.

Lyana · 18 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

Yay - Eonwe with a sword! If that doesn't help sort things, nothing will... And the image of Alex going toe to toe with him!! Looks like Alex is continuing to deal with the reality that working "on the side of angels" doesn't mean that the behaviour of those you're working with will be angelic! I'm sure there will be more bumps, but it feels like a corner has been turned. I really hope the Elves are now viewing them more as partners and less as somewhat bothersome pets (and that goes for Zach and company too!) That Derek is one cool customer - he seems to instinctively know just what's needed to lighten things up; just what the Elves need. Can't wait to see who shows up on Friday!

Author's reply

Hi Lyana. Definitely a corner has been turned in the relationship between Alex and the Elves. Hopefully, Eönwë's little chat will bear fruit for future dealings. And Derek is a true treasure among the Mortals. The Elves are very lucky to have him on their side. Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it very much.

Lyana · 18 July 2012 · Chapter 51: 51: 67.5 North by 151.6 West

Ah, Glorfindel! An unexpected wave of homesickness can just level you - poor guy... Dare I hope that Finrod is at least one of those they will meet?? I see it's a popular vote, but Glorfi sure could use his friendship, humour, wisdom and skilled experience working with Mortals! Love the deliberate inclusion (and confirmation) of Alex and Derek - sorry Elves... looks like you're stuck with them!

Author's reply

Hi Lyana. Yes, homesickness can strike anyone at anytime. We'll see just who shows up soon enough. And of course Alex and Derek had to be included, since that's the whole point of the story. *grin* Thanks for taking the time to review. It's much appreciated.

Siiw · 18 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

I actually had to look up in an earlier story what Olorin's signature scent was. How fitting. I guess *that* herb has fallen completely out of knowledge in the present age? It is good to see that the Elves and the Mortals are almost speaking the same language again, especially the way Glorfindel has acted has been disturbing. Everybody needs to look at things from a different angle sometimes to see clearer.

Author's reply

Hi Siiw. I guess you're probably right and Elrohir or someone in an earlier chapter did say something about there not being any left. And hopefully the Elves will see that they need the Mortals as much as the Mortals need them. Thanks for the review. It is much appreciated.

harrowcat · 18 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

I have been googling the Wild Lake and it is a truly remote location! It looks wonderful and reminds me of Wast Water in our Lake District except that is positively urban in comparison. I am glad that Glorfindel has an inkling of where to go because there seems to be a lot of terrain to cover.

Author's reply

Hi Harrowcat. Yes, Wild Lake is pretty remote. I've been to the Lake District. Very beautiful, but compared to the wilds of Alaska, almost urban as you say. And with the clue of the man fishing in the boat, Glorfindel will have no problem finding the actual spot where they should go. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

bookworm · 18 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

Well well, that's some interesting reactions there. I can't say I blame Alex, I would probably have reacted the same! Tsk tsk, Glorfindel, after all those years dealing with mortals, you'd think he'd know better. Then again, being homesick throws you for a big loop. No excuses for the others though! Nice to see Olorin and Eonwe too. (and I won't lie, I LOL'd at the "INTERNET" answer - Google knows all!) Can't wait to see what's coming~

Author's reply

Hi Bookworm. No, one really can't blame Alex and the Elves, well, let's just say that they've been so used to going it alone that they've forgotten how to work with others, i.e. Mortals. Luckily, Eönwë has set them straight on that score. We'll find out who is coming soon enough. Thanks for the review. I appreciate it very much.

Agape4Gondor · 17 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

I love the chapter title. Looks like things will work out with the 'help' of a Maia.... I hope someone brings the graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolates... camping out isn't camping out without S'mores.

Author's reply

Hi Agape. I'm glad you liked the title. And I agree, camping ot isn't camping out with S'mores. *grin* Thanks for reviewing. It's greatly appreciated.

Larner · 16 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

Not good for relations between Men and Elves. At least Gandalf got them calmed down and Eonwe set them straight. Poor Alex and his need to get himself sorted out! (I'd love to see them see Olorin in his terrestrial appearance!)

Author's reply

Yes, Eönwë has set them straight and Olórin was a great help in calming down the Mortals. Hopefully the Elves will get with the program and not try to keep the Mortals out of things from now on. Alex will need a lot of time and help to sort himself out but at least he has people there to help him, especially Vorondur. And that would be something, having them see Olórin in his terrestrial appearance. Only Glorfindel and the Twins would recognize him in that guise, though. Thanks for commenting, Larner. I appreciate it very much.

Clouded Leopard · 16 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

Now why does the scene of Alex and Derek coming in on a meeting of the elves sound so familiar. It reminds me of when Pippen and Merry came running in on the Council of Elrond to join the quest with Frodo "grin". So they found out, the boys have brains and they used them. Glorfindel and the others should not have been upset and should have expected them to show up. I am glad that Eonwe showed up to put things in perspective for everyone involved. Alex now sees right from wrong and wants to help, but it doesn't help if Glorfindel will not work with them or as Alex and Derek puts it "treating them like children". It would seem everyone is tired or frustrated with what's going on at this point and are snapping at each other. As usual another great chapter. Can't wait for the next couple of chapters. Good job.

Author's reply

Hi Clouded Leopard. The scene of Alex and Derek coming in on the meeting of the Elves does sort of have that look to it, doesn't it? Never really thought about it. And you're right that the Elves should have expected them to show up. Eönwë is very good at putting things in perspective, so he was a good choice to send to help sort things out between the Elves and the Mortals. And Alex has always known right from wrong, but in the world of espionage the lines between then get rather blurred and expediency is often the excuse of the hour. Now that he's had a chance to step back and see where his being a spy has brought him, he can begin to take steps to change the direction of his life. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I greatly appreciate it.

6336 · 16 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

Well, it's been a long time coming but I think the Elves needed to be told to come in out of the cold. The Dagor Dagoreth is nigh and they are not the only ones on Arda who will be fighting! Good to see Olorin again and I knew it was Eonwe even before we got to the white cloak and Mitrril circlet. I loved the screw up comment, for the shock value, if nothing else. Can you really see someone who is as poised and regal has Eonwe, dressed the way he was, using that sort of language? I still think Glorfy needs a long vacation. So Derek really wants to be an Elf Guide and all Alex wants to do is get out of the Game and find out who he really is. I just hope Ratty is as easy to deal with as Alex seems to think he will be. So everybody is going to Wild Lake, except for the Ellith and Amroth, Alex and Derek will miss out on Hallowen this year and 'Bald is Beautiful', all that hair just hides the shape of you head! Can I have a sword, pretty please, with sugar and a cherry on top?! Huggs, Lynda

Author's reply

Hi Lynda. Yes, it has been a long time coming and it's time for the Elves to get with the program, so to speak. The screw up commment is pretty funny coming from someone like him, isn't it? *grin* Just shows he has a sense of humor. Next stop: Wild Lake. Thanks for commenting. As always, it's much appreciated.

Fantasia · 16 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

Good, all that tension was not good for the camping trip. I guess that the elves needed a reminder that it s a mortal world after all. Is the help coming on Friday? Will they bring candy? i love the brotherhood between Derek and Alex.

Author's reply

Hi Fantasia. Yes, it is good that there is no more tension between the Elves and Alex and Derek. The help is coming and soon. Thanks for reviewing. It's much appreciated.

Sunny · 16 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

So Alex and Derek are going along to Wild Lake, but the Maiar had to intervene in order for the Elves to let them come along. Though having the Mortals sneak around in the bushes might also have been fun. ;-) I must say Derek handled the sudden appearance of the Maiar fairly well - he neither fainted nor attacked either of them, and even retained enough of his wits to ask Eönwë a question! Hopefully Glorfindel and the other Elves will try to not disregard Mortals any more! Eönwë in a stern sort of mood is clearly able to make our Balrog-Slayer sit up and take heed! The little aside of "Hello! Internet?" was quite amusing. Alex and Derek are definitely able to find out things without having the information gift-wrapped and personally handed over to them by one of the Elves. And they had exactly the same information to go on.

Author's reply

Hi Sunny. Yes, Alex and Derek are going along and a good thing, too, as we will see. Derek probably would've freaked had not been for Vorondur to help calm him. Eönwë in a stern mood is almost as bad as Námo in one and is able to make an impression not only on Glorfindel but on the other Elves as well. One of my betas commented on the differing technologies between the Mortals and the Elves: Alex and Derek googling for the information while the Elves consulted an old-fashioned atlas. The disparity of technologies I thought was an interesting commentary on the mindsets of the two groups. Anyway, we'll see how things turn out at Wild Lake over the next couple of chapters and who exactly shows up. Thanks for your comments. They are much appreciated.

Kitty · 16 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

Well, I guess it was inevitable – and about time – that Alex lost his patience with the Elves and the way they treat him (and Derek). He may not be as ancient as they are, but he's not the normal student, either. His experiences and connections could come in handy a lot, if they just let him and listened more to him. The fact that the Maiar had to turn up and reinforce basically what Alex said hopefully drove the point home. Glad the problem was resolved, and that Vorondur (I'm *still* having problems not to spell that Vorondil!) was able to explain to him a bit further why everything happened to him. As hard as the truth is, it will help Alex in the long run. The end was rather funny. Now that tone between them is so much better than what they had at the beginning of the chapter.

Author's reply

Hi Kitty. Yes, it was inevitable and long overdue, in my opinion. And I have no doubt that the Maiar showing up, especially Eönwë, had truly driven home to the Elves that they can no longer do it alone, that the Mortals are there to help. We'll see how that goes as the story progresses. I'm glad you found the end funny. They needed the humor to help release the tension, which is why I suspect Derek acted as he did and Alex went along with him. Thanks for reviewing. It's always appreciated.

UTfrog · 16 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

This was a chapter well worth the wait. So many important and plot advancing things happened. Glad Alex and Derek are staying, not that I ever doubted it. I have a lovely mental picture of the look on everyone's faces when Eowne showed up. I have a couple of guesses as to the coming help. I just hope I am correct. Thanks for a good start to my week.

Author's reply

Hi UTfrog. I'm glad you thought the chapter worth waiting for. And I'm sure the expressions on everyone's faces when Eönwë showed up was priceless. *grin* Thanks for leaving a comment. I much appreciate it.

harrowcat · 16 July 2012 · Chapter 52: A Minor Upset

If that is only a minor upset - and it takes TWO Maia to calm it down then I hope that we don't get to see a major one. I don't know whether it is Poor Alex or Poor Glorfindel I am chanting at present but I can certainly empathise with the feeling of each and would happily run away - to anywhere - at the moment too but it won't solve the problems!. But, *snorffle*, I am just trying to imagine Alex in a long blonde wig with elf ears!

Author's reply

Hi harrowcat. Well, let's hope we never do see what a major upset looks like. *grin* And it's probably safe to say that it's Poor Alex (and Derek) and Glorfindel at this point. Hopefully Eönwë's little chat with them all will help. Thanks for reading and reviewing. It's much appreciated.

harrowcat · 16 July 2012 · Chapter 51: 51: 67.5 North by 151.6 West

I will keep up with reviewing..I will keep up with reviewing..I will keep up with reviewing..... I first read the title as north by North West and immediately thought of a film title. I don't know whether that was your intention. And I am glad that I am not the only avid reader that would go as far as googling the coordinates. BTW Thank you for reintroducing me to that lovely song and I agree that the gregorian Chant version is wonderful - much closer to how Glorfindel would sing it. I can't seem to find it in a downloadable form online. *pouts* My twopenny worth on the lakeside gathering is that I would love to see any of the aformentioned candidates - although I have my doubts that Finrod will come; didn't he vow not to? Or is that my imagination? And there was mention that not all the Elves who are left in ME are gathered at Elf Academy. It being All Hallows Eve - 'when the walls between the worlds grow thin' there might be some sort of reconciliation between Alex/Artemus and 'Junior'.

Author's reply

Hi Harrowcat. Whenever you review is fine. Yeah, I sort of had that movie in mind as well when I first started writing this chapter. A great movie. Finrod did vow that he would go no further east than Tol Eressëa "unless the Valar willed it otherwise", so if he is asked by the to return to Middle-earth, then he would do so. We will see soon enough just who shows up and how. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

Kitty · 15 July 2012 · Chapter 51: 51: 67.5 North by 151.6 West

Sounds like walking that path did Glorfindel some good. Until Vorondur came to show him the pumpkins, that is. Can't they just have fun for once? That message ... seems the Valar are sending it? And from what Derek and Alex worked out ... in the middle of a lake? Hm... the only thing I can see that would need that would be a ship. And seeing that there's a wedding coming up certain people might want to witness and they might need a bit of reinforcements to deal with this Agency mess ... why do I have to think of Vingilot? That hint at All Saint's Day only reinforces that. May I dare to hope that Elrond and Celebrian are coming? And some of their friends, maybe? Glorfindel would be so happy to have his own gwadors back ... That's an interesting discovery Daeron made. Yes, it sounds as if Derek and Alex are meant to be there, too, there I agree with im and Vorondur, even if Glorfindel isn't happy. And it would be great for them to be allowed to come if what I suspect is right. All caught up now :)

Author's reply

Yes, the Enchanted Pumpkin event was just what Glorfindel needed. As for the message and what it may mean, we'll learn that shortly enough, never fear. And Daeron, being the loremaster that he is, is very observant. Glorfindel may not agree with him and Ron but we will see that in the end he has to acknowledge that Alex and Derek being with them when the discovered the message is important. Anyway, I'm glad you're all caught up now with the story. Thanks as always for taking the time to read and review. I appreciate it more than words can say.

Kitty · 15 July 2012 · Chapter 50: Enchanted Pumpkins

Have to agree with Ron here – it was cruel to force Alex to take his friend out. They should at least have sent someone else. No wonder he has difficulties living with himself after that. And I get the feeling that the current assignment, where he can play a nice role for once instead of the fake terrorist most others seem to have been, is showing him too clearly the difference between the two personas. It seems Ron did a lot of good with this one talk already, and I am glad for it. And the second one went well, too. They may sort that problem out. That pumpkin path sounded great – until the end. You always have to throw something in, do you? :(

Author's reply

Hi Kitty. Yes, Alex being able to play a good guy for once has shown him how soul-destroying playing fake terrorists has been for him. Now that he recognizes this and wants to be "Alex" rather than "Artemus" he may have a chance at leaving the past behind him and find for himself a path to a brighter future. Ron will be there to help him find that path. And as for the pumpkins.... *grin* Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

Kitty · 15 July 2012 · Chapter 49: Homecoming

Alex certainly got a hero's welcome, and I am glad for him, even if he doesn't think he deserves it. But I hope it will help him to see that he's a good guy, seeing the identity problems he has. Looks as if that little trip to see the northern lights was just what Alex needed to soothe his soul a bit. Oh, when Alex said Junior was his friend, the shoe finally dropped. Took me long enough to get who that was! In any case, I am glad he finally talked to Ron; he desperately needs it. It may be the beginning of the healing process. And I hope they will find a way to get him out of the Academy and protect him and Amroth. The more we see of him, the less I can see Alex continuing there, to be honest. He wouldn't be able to deal with having to assume the identity of a bad guy or, worse, kill friends any more.

Author's reply

Yes, Alex certainly did get a hero's welcome even though he doesn't think he deserves it, for it's not Artemus who is being welcomed but Alex and Alex doesn't really exist. Vorondur will be a great help to Alex now that Alex is willing to talk to him about his past. We will eventually see if Alex is successful in leaving the Agency. He certainly doesn't belong there and could never really go back to doing what he used to do there. Thanks for your comments, Kitty. They'r much appreciated.

Kitty · 15 July 2012 · Chapter 48: Recovery

Manwë's right, Glorfindel's temper didn't help, even if it was a reaction that seemed rather typical for the reborn one we know so well. I guess it's not only Alex who needs some real rest ... Let's hope his visit helped. To find out that the Elder King is revealing himself to mortals to get their help was a bit surprising. But then, the Valar are know to do the unexpected. And it makes sense that they need healers, too. Let's just hope they can get that confrontation out of the way. *Grin* Outranked or not, Vorondur will still get his way, doesn't he? They could have used someone like that back then in Valinor when they had to deal with all these Reborn. In any case, I am glad Alex is healing well. And I sincerely hope you stop hurting him now!!!

Author's reply

Hi Kitty. Yes, Manwë is actively recruiting among the Mortals and as you say, healers will be needed. And Vorondur would have been very welcome in Aman as the healer of the mind that he is, but he learned his craft the hard way, dealing with Mortals over the ages. He did not start out to be a healer as we will see in a later chapter. I promise not to hurt Alex too much from now on. *grin* Thanks for reviewing. I always appreciate your comments.

Kitty · 15 July 2012 · Chapter 47: Return

It's really sweet that Alex is worrying about Derek even in his half-comatose state. Though it's getting a tad obsessive that he always needs him around. Still wondering what is behind that? "Why is everything bad happening to me?" Alex asked no one in particular. That's what I want to know, too! Poor Alex, he so doesn't deserve this! If he's concussed, then it was probably to be expected that he ended up vomiting. I'll only be really content when he's in the hospital and had some x-rays to check if he's really only bruised. I should probably not laugh about how Glorfindel reacted to that Stoner doctor, but I couldn't help it. That was so like the Glorfindel of old! Hot-headed and losing his patience. It was probably good that his fellow Elves took him out, though he won't appreciate it when he comes to. Besides, that Stoner was a bit arrogant. Does he not know that the twins are healers of renown, too? No, obviously not. It was good someone else took over to avoid more confrontations. Stoner might have done the opposite of what was needed just out of spite ...

Author's reply

Hi Kitty. Well, in this case, with his head injury, Alex is feeling confused and frightened and just wants his gwador near him for comfort. And Glorfindel is really near the end of his patience with everyone here. Stoner just happened to be the unfortunate who ended up being on the wrong side of Glorfindel's anger. Elrohir, though, knows just how to disfuse him. *grin* Thanks for taking the time to read and review. It's always appreciated.