UTfrog
· 21 May 2012
· Chapter 36: The Storm Takes its Toll
Are you sure Farrell is not sick too? Maybe freezing or something else that hurts? Anyway, excellent update. Clever Elves for thinking of food and music. Yea for the students who offered to help with both activities. Still glad it is warm where I am.
Author's reply
Hi UTfrog. I don't think Farrell is sick or freezing or anything else. Some people are lucky that way. *grin* Glad you liked the chapter. I'm glad it's nice and warm, too. Reading this part of the story when it really is cold outside would've been tough (and writing about it during the winter wasn't all that fun either, though our winter never really happened this year). Thanks for commenting. It's really appreciated.
harrowcat
· 19 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
Just once I would like to wake up to the smell of bacon frying - but alas I live alone!
I love it when you sprinkle in things like "Those Tibetan monks with whom we spent a couple of centuries" just as an aside. Makes me wonder how they explained their longevity. The benefits of clean living and meditation perhaps? Too cold even for the Elves is very cold indeed. Brrrrr.
Hope that you are improving steadily.
Author's reply
Hi harrowcat. I know what you mean. I live alone, too.
It's fun sprinkling little hints of what these particular Elves were doing over the millennia before they ever came to Wiseman. Perhaps at the time they were visiting those particular monks, belief in other beings, such as Elves, was commonplace and no explanation really was needed. It was only as we entered the modern era that such beliefs disappeared from the general populace and the Elves were forced to hide their identities more.
And no matter how you slice it, cold is cold, especially at those temperatures, and highly dangerous even to Elves.
I'm steadily improving, though it'll be a few more weeks before I'm considered 'healed' as far as the doctors are concerned. Thanks for yor good wishes and for leaving a review. Both are greatly appreciated.
Whispy
· 19 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
Hi Fiondil,
Let’s hope that this review gets through (I’ve been having difficulty doing stuff on this site, but I couldn’t tell you why---I guess it just doesn’t like me.)
I love this story. Getting an update really makes my Mondays and Fridays. One of my favorite things about it is that it shouldn’t work. But it does---very, very well. I was trying to describe it to my friends, and they gave me a look that said, Espionage? Ancestral memory? Christmas Elves? Erm…sounds…interesting.
The fact that it does work is really a great testament to your skill, and I’m duly impressed.
Ah, norovirus and ice-storms…fun times. When reading this, I can’t help but remember my own experiences with ‘em. We had a nasty ice-storm that knocked out power for about a week a few years ago…Luckily, my friend’s house had power, so her family invited me to stay a few nights while waiting for it to come back. And just year, I had a norovirus outbreak at my college. I grumbled because due to it, we were no longer allowed to serve ourselves at our dining hall (it’s usually buffet style), but reading this, I’m just glad that it wasn’t that bad.
I hope Alex is OK…and Derek! I’m really anxious for him right now. Sounds like it bodes ill for him, but I hope you won’t bang him up too bad…He’s a nice kid.
I hope you are well and your recovery goes smoothly.
Love,
Whispy
Author's reply
Hi Whispy. Well, apparently the site liked you enough this time. *grin*
I have to admit that when I first started writing this story, I wasn't sure it was going to work either, and just because my betas liked what I was writing, didn't mean others would, but based on the number of favorable reviews I've been receiving, apparently it does seem to work.
I know a lot of readers can relate to things like the Norovirus, ice storms and power outages, as well as college life. I think that helps give the story a sense of reality even if we're dealing with Elves for the most part.
As for Alex and Derek... well, Alex will recover and we'll have to see why he is so concerned for Derek's safety soon enough.
I'm so glad you are enjoying this story and have been able to leave a review letting me know. I really appreciate it. Thanks.
Lyana
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
Oh man. My fingernails are going to be down to nothing! Alex's behavior is making me very worried for Derek - I hope they start to take this seriously and really watch out for him as well! Well, as well as they can with 400 people to manage with no heat/electricity at -50...
And Alex? "Greater love hath no man than this..." so I can sort of understand why he would do what he did if he truly believed Derek to be in danger. I think he may have had a little "help" getting from clinic to college; I'm sure Fionwe's hanging around somewhere just waiting to be given permission to jump in!
Author's reply
Hi Lyana. You're probably right about Alex getting a little help from Fionwë or one of the other Maiar. It's the only way to explain how he didn't die from exposure along the way.
We'll see whether Alex's concern for Derek is real or not soon enough. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. I appreciate it very much.
obsidianj
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
What in the world has Alex so freaked out about Derek's safety? If this is a premonition, it must be really bad. This storm takes a nasty turn with the generators freezing up. I don't want to be there.
Can we have Farell in a dark and cold hotel room, please?
Author's reply
Hi obsidianj. We'll learn soon enough just why Alex seems so focused on the idea that Derek is in danger (mainly because he is). It isn't a good situation they are all in, that's for sure. Unfortunately, Farrell is at the Goldmine Inn and seems to be faring quite nicely. Such is life. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
obsidianj
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 34: The Ice Storm Cometh
First Glorfindel with his flashback and at the end a half frozen Alex at the front door. Quite a chapter. Glorfindel reminds me of someone with a chronic ailment. No matter how good you feel, you always have to have your medication otherwise you get nasty reminders.
And what was Alex doing walking to the Academy in this kind of weather? How did he get away from the hospital?
Author's reply
Hi obsidianj. Yes, quite a chapter, indeed, and the 'fun' has just started. *grin* As for Alex, well, he's been trained to sneak in and out of places, and he apparently put his training to work. Thanks for reading and reviewing. It's greatly appreciated.
Kitty
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
Walking from the hospital over to the Academy would have been bad for Alex even in normal weather, considering this state. But in that ice storm? What on earth drove him to do that? He can really be glad that the Elves are there; normally there would be only normal teachers and staff, if any at all, I suspect, and no one with medical knowledge. And in this weather, it's very unlikely they could get a doctor over to the Academy for him.
It really looks like Amroth was closer to Alex than I at first thought; this has to be hard for him to see him in this state. I wonder if Alex got the virus stronger than the others because his experience with the Tarn already took such a toll on him? In any case, 40 fever doesn't sound good, on the contrary, that's getting into the really critical height.
Brrr, after reading Daeron's report on the weather I feel like having a hot tea, it makes me cold just thinking about these temperatures! Can't really imagine these, the worst we had around here was about -20. And that was bad enough *shudder*
As you know, I agree with Daeron about the crazy weather, too. Temperatures here are still going up and down 15 to 20 degrees in a day or two every few days, that's really not normal any more. Tahiti really begins to sound more appealing ...
Glad to know that at least the families we know from the first part of this story are safe, considering the overall problem with generators all over Wiseman. Hm ... any hope that Farrell is sitting somewhere in the cold and freezing to death? But that would be too easy, I guess ...
Was wondering about that insistence that Derek must be protected all the time, too, and it's true, considering who Alex is descendant from, he might be able to have some premonitions. Not that it is doing much to calm me down, even though this would at least give them some warning.
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. You're right about Amroth. Something about Alex (or rather, Artemus) touched him in a way he didn't expect and he thinks of Alex as the son he's never had.
In the Northeast US where I live, it's not unusual to have wind-chills almost as bad as those mentioned here during the winter. We refer to it as the Arctic (or sometimes, the Siberian) Express.
If lots of generators are freezing up then you know it's bad outside. Hopefully such conditions won't last for long and the temperatures will moderate somewhat so they can get at least the one generator going again until power is fully restored.
And Alex's premonition has a basis in fact as we will soon see.
Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
Kitty
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 34: The Ice Storm Cometh
You mean I was not the only one who thought of Elurín and Eluréd when the twins were mentioned? But Glorfindel's reaction was really worrying. Really, I had thought the times were over when Glorfindel was prone to these flashbacks and, worse, slipping his leash. Why do I get the feeling you aren't content to torture Alex and want to do the same with our favourite balrog-slayer as well?
Ah, I can so totally see Námo sitting there, drinking hot chocolate and entertaining the Elves. And Elrohir will be happy that the Vala loved his recipe.
LOL, it seems Grace will make sure that the first elflings born in Middle-earth in millennia will be greeted properly in this new world!
For the moment, they seem to have things well in hand, yes. Though, knowing you, I suspect they will need the worst case scenario plans some time soon.
Alex?! How on earth did he get there, and in such a storm? And why?
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. Apparently you were not. Glorfindel has been receiving one shock after another so this latest news has sort of sent him over the edge, hence the flashback. And you're right about my motives. This entire sequence with the storm is basically an exercise in overwhelming Glorfindel as much as possible. *grin* We'll see how sucessful I am. As for Alex, we'll learn something of that soon enough. Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it very much.
Kitty
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 33: Storm Preparations
As I've never been in such extreme weather, it was interesting to see how the Elves were organising things to keep everyone busy and make sure they are as prepared as they can be under the circumstances. It all sounds reasonable and makes sense to me. As long as they are busy, they don't have time to argue with each other. And games other than board games, more sportive ones, might help to keep everyone warm if they lose power.
Poor Nicole, four sick children is a bit much! Good to know Zach is there to help, though I hope the two adults don't catch the virus, too, and the kids recover soon.
Basketweaving? Why not ribbon embroidery? The material might be easier to get, and we have a teacher for that at hand ;)
Glorfindel is so right about the sleeping habits of students. I've got a friend at that age, and she preferably goes to bed at about the time when I get up in the morning. We haven't agreed on the question who of us is more strange yet!
Jud's doing a great job at keeping people busy and out of trouble, and at the same time making sure the sick students are taken care of. Well done!
Elflings? Now I really have to squee a bit! Wow, that was really unexpected. Not sure it's the best time to have children, but I am so happy for them! Particularly as I have a faible for twins. After so many millennia apart, they deserve a bit of happiness. And the babies will have more aunts and uncles and babysitters than they can use.
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. Boredom is as much an enemy as the weather itself, so it's important to have activities, both mental and physical, to help relieve the tediousness of being unable to go anywhere. Jud is very creative and his ideas will be very helpful in keeping everyone amused, including the Elves.
And really, is there ever a *good* time to bring children into the world? I doubt it. All times are fraught with dangers and worries and yet we bring children into the world regardless as a symbol of hope for a better future and I suppose that is what has motivated Amroth and Nimrodel in this case. And they certainly won't lack for babysitters, that's for sure. *grin*
Thamks for leaving a comment. It's much appreciated.
Fantasia
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
Can the poor men and elves get better news and luck? everything that can go bad , is going bad. Note to myself: do not move to Alaska.
Again, POOR ALEX!!!!!
Author's reply
Hi Fantasia. I'll see what I can do, but I cant' promise anything. Things will get somewhat worse before they get better, as they always do. And poor Alex, indeed. Thanks for commenting. It's greatly appreciated.
Tari
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
BRRRRRRR!! I thought Ohio was cold. Think I'll stay right where I am.
How did Alex survive the walk to the cafteria? If the elves coul handle the cold, it's hard to imagine how he did it. These are the times when a gas stove comes in handy. I'd be in deep troube under these circumstances as I switched to an electric stove.
Author's reply
Hi Tari. I have no idea how he managed to survive or even how he managed to reach the Academy at all. Someone was obviously looking out for him. Gas or wood stoves are very handy, indeed. Unfortunately, most places are all electric so when the power goes out you're in trouble. Been there, done that. Anyway, thanks for leaving a review. I appreciate it very much.
Larner
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
At least they have the kitchens there and are able to cook. As for Farrel seeking to use Derek to control Alex--I'd not put it past that individual of ill repute. Now--everyone get better and dig in for the duration!
Author's reply
Yes, Farrell's not above using innocents to control Alex. Hopefully, the sickies will improve and there won't be too many new cases. Thanks for commenting, Larner. It's much appreciated.
Larner
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 34: The Ice Storm Cometh
They were well prepared for almost everything, it seems. Love Namo playing with Glorfindel's computer! And now Alex has shown up? He should still be in bed!
Author's reply
Well, they *think* they are prepared for everything, but we will see that is not the case. And you're right about Alex. He's definitely not thinking straight. Thanks for the review, Larner. It's very much appreciated.
someone
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
Alex, Alex, Alex... just what was he thinking! He really must have had an excellent reason to suspect that Derek is in danger.
Daeron is right, they can survive one storm without help from outside. Glorfindel may have got too used to interfering Maiar and Valar. I'm wonderin now how much worse you are going to make this situation!
Author's reply
Hi someone. Alex obviously thinks he has a good reason to do what he did even if it was dangerous to his health. Obviously his fever eroded his good sense. As for how much worse the situation may become... that remains to be seen. *grin* Thanks for leaving a review. I very much appreciate it.
Soledad
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
Ugh, that sounds disturbing. I really hope the Elves will manage to stay one step ahead of the next disaster. Now, what kind of nightmares or foresight might have made Alex elope from the hospital - and how did he manage to do it anyway? Things are getting more ominous with each new chapter.
Author's reply
Hi Soledad. We can only hope that they can stay on top of things but it remains to be seen. And Alex... well he's obviously not thinking straight. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. I appreciate you doing so very much.
6336
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
That is one nasty, little Morgoth of a virus Alex has, I think Amroth did his job too well, even as sick as he is Alex was still able to sneak out.
Hm, half the generators in Wiseman out, sounds a little suspicious to me, but then I don't know how generators react in cold weather, presumably they need to be kept warm, or out of the wind. Maybe, when all this is over, the collage should look into retrofitting some of the buildings with closed wood stoves.
Alex does seem to be really concerned about Derek, maybe Glorfindel is right and he is having a premonition about him. Poor Alex this is turning out to be the worst possible assingnment for him, nothing seems to be going right, first Farrell, then dieing, then the virus and now a walk in the snow! I think something is telling him it is time to get out of the buisness!
Well off to hunt down breakfast and get ready for the salt mines,
Huggs,
Lynda
Author's reply
Hi Lynda. Well, if it's cold enough with the wind-chill, even generators can freeze up and arctic conditions can really be nasty.
It does seem as if everything bad has been happening to Alex and in a way that's true. He, more than any of the other students, has had to be broken down and rebuilt, so to speak. The other students genuinely wanted to be there, but for Alex, it was just another assignment.
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment before heading for the salt mines. I appreciate it very much.
Sunny
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
Is this your version of Fimbulvinter?
(I'm just happy the weather here is nice, sunny and warm - or else I might have put on a woolen jacket.) ;-)
Alex' intense worry about Derek is making me worried. Alex is clearly having some kind of precognitive episode, so clearly some kind of serious danger is coming Derek's way. But why him, and from whom?
(I know - all will be made clear in time.)
Author's reply
Hi Sunny. Fimbulvinter... yeah, that just about describes it, doesn't it? *grin* Having lived through similar experiences (they still speak of the Blizzard of '66 when I was ten), I know of what I write. And Alex has every reason to be worried for Derek as we will see soon enough. Thanks for leaving a comment. I appreciate it very much.
UTfrog
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 35: The Storm Continues
Either you or the Valar have no mercy at all. I am feeling sorry for every living being in Wiseman. brrrrrr. Too cold, but very interesting. I hope Farrell is really miserable. Great story continuing though I hope the cold lets up soon.
Hope you are continuing to improve.
Author's reply
Hi UTfrog. No mercy... and the Valar don't take prisoners. *grin* Glad you are enjoying the story. It'll be a few days before the cold moderates but it will eventually. And I'm improving as well. Thanks for enquiring and thanks for the review.
bookworm
· 18 May 2012
· Chapter 34: The Ice Storm Cometh
Oh poor Glorfindel! If it isn't one thing, it's another. And now we add cabin fever on top of everything else. I wonder what Namo was looking at on the computer? Fanfic, maybe =p
And I believe the correct response to Alex/Ambrose's abrupt arrival would be: 0_0!
Author's reply
Hi bookworm. Yeah, poor Glorfindel. And it's only get worse before it gets better. And that certainly is the correct response to Alex's abrupt arrival, followed by several choice expletives. *grin* Thanks for leaving a review. It's greatly appreciated.
Lizbeth
· 15 May 2012
· Chapter 34: The Ice Storm Cometh
Well, it was good to see Fionwe and Lord Namo again, despite the circumstances, and, along with other reviewers, I too am wondering just what the Lord of Mandos was reading on Glorfy's computer! Poor elf, going through that again. At least he recovers better than he used to. Also, I loved the story about Brethorn! I've said it before, but I really enjoy the depth that is created when you link all your stories together.
The way you describe all the activities and goings on at the Academy I'm torn between wanting to be there and wanting to stay as far away as possible. *grin* I'm one of those people that's terrified of seeing other people vomit, so the Norovirus is freaking me out. On the other hand, with all the activities being plannedm I'm feeling up for an adventure/challenge! I know in my head that it's a terrible situation but all this talk of flashlights, games and sleeping bags is making me wish for a sudden power outage.
Lastly, what on earth is going on? Did Farrell make a move? What happened with Alex? Oh, the suspense!
Author's reply
Hi Lizbeth. Such thngs always sound fun and exciting when you read about them, but when you have to live through such events, it really isn't all that fun, but I can understand your ambivalence about it all.
As for what's going on, that will be seen in the next chapter. Thanks for leaving a review. I appreciate it very much.
Agape4Gondor
· 14 May 2012
· Chapter 34: The Ice Storm Cometh
So many things happening - no wonder poor Glorfindel went to pieces. Twins! Such a hodge-podge of memories. I shudder to think of the little ones.
As for hot chocolate, it is always good - in a snowstorm or even in the summer (if the air conditioning is working). It's funny to think Namo liked it - but really nice for 'Ro that he did. *g*
As for Alex - I'm wondering if it was part of the illness that caused him to act off his rocker... Or I'm wondering if Farrell might have shown up... or I'm wondering if....
That's the trouble with your writing - you constantly make me wonder. Great job!
Blessings to you.
Author's reply
Hi Agape. Too many things are happening at once, which is why Glorfindel is slowly unraveling.
Námo is just full of surprises, isn't he? *grin*
As for Alex, we'll see what may have caused his flight from the clinic in the middle of the storm.
Glad you liked the chapter. Thanks for taking the time to leave a review. It's greatly appreciated.
Lizbeth
· 14 May 2012
· Chapter 33: Storm Preparations
Sounds like everyone is about a prepared as they can get! I'm a little disappointed that Derek didn't get the full Edhellond experience, but circumstances being what they are, I'm not surprised. It's always interesting to see what the elves will do to keep their secrets hidden, too! Lucky Derek.. I have never been on a snowmobile in my life.
Oh. My. Goodness. Twins!? When I read that bit for the first time, I was running out the door and almost dropped my iphone. Then I had to explain to my family why I was grinning like a madman and bouncing up and down. Good times, but they're used to it. On a more serious note, I am pretty surprised at Amroth and Nimrodel's choice to beget a child in this age and in such a turbulent time. I'd call it foolish, but after what they've been through over the Ages, I can't say that I begrudge them their joy.
Author's reply
Hi Lizbeth. Maybe Derek will get the full Edhellond experience later. Right now, the circumstances aren't that great.
I'm sure Amroth and Nimrodel talked it over for a long time before making the decision to go ahead and have a child. Let's face it, there are no times that are better to have children than others, especially in this day and age, else no one would be having children. After all, children represent hope: hope that the future will be better, hope that life will continue. As long as people hope, there is the chance that we will survive against all odds and I think this is a part of why they decided to have children now.
Anyway, thanks for leaving a comment. It's greatly appreciated.
AleiTheLeaf
· 14 May 2012
· Chapter 34: The Ice Storm Cometh
I know this is really late, but I am really, really glad you're back and that whatever happened turned out ok! :D
And in other news, I am eagerly awaiting the next chapter...
Yours,
AleiTheLeaf
Author's reply
Hi AleiTheLeaf. Thanks for your concern and best wishes. I'm glad you're still enjoying the story and looking forward to the next chapter. I appreciate you letting me know.
Kitty
· 14 May 2012
· Chapter 32: Snowed-In
*sigh* Of course Alex would get it, too, and harder than many others. What did the poor guy do to you for him to be tortured so much?
So Derek now has meet a Maia, too. Can't wait for him to realise who exactly 'Finn' was :D But it's good to know the Elves aren't alone to deal with this mess. Alex sounds really bad off, and if they have to disinfect the Academy and all that ... I don't even want to think about how much work that is going to be, on top of dealing with all the sick students and staff.
Derek won't remember Finn? Such a pity, I had looked forward to the revelation!
Ah, admittedly I was worried about Farrell using the situation for an attack while the Elves are busy containing the virus and taking care of the patients, but it seems the weather at least keeps that one out of too much mischief, too. I can just see him, pacing and fuming and cursing ... *evil grin*
LOL – you mean the Maiar are competing about keeping an eye on the agents? Somehow I had envisioned Manveru and Erunaro doing it, these two would drive them nuts. But maybe they could come in handy around the Academy, too?
Way to ruin the honeymoon ... but I guess Glorfindel is right, they will need every hand available at this rate.
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. "Finn" probably felt it best that Derek not remember too clearly just how he managed to go from the Academy to Edehellond in a blink of an eye and that would mean not remembering him as well.
The weather, nuisance though it is, is helping to keep certain people contained and unable to cause any mischief. *grin*
Manveru and Erunáro are busy elsewhere, I'm afraid, so we won't be seeing them any time soon.
Thanks for leaving a review. I appreciate it very much.
Kitty
· 14 May 2012
· Chapter 31: The Beginning of Woes
Have to agree with Derek here, that doesn't sound good. A virus is all they need now, on top of all the other problems with Alex, Farrell, the other spies, the ACCU and everything. Even though it is realistic, it's still horrible timing.
Um ... why was my first thought if Farrell could have anything to do with so many getting sick? Could it be that I am getting too paranoid? On the other hand, if it's the Norovirus, that can happen even without murderous spies around.
Sounds like this is going to get much worse before it gets better. In such an institution it's nearly impossible to contain that sort of virus, I think. And if it started in the Cafeteria, where pretty much everyone comes to, it would spread rapidly. It's really good that the Elves can't get it, so at least some people in charge will not end up sick themselves.
It's nice how Alex is taking care of Derek. Trained killer or not, he's still a nice guy.
Author's reply
Hi Kitty. That's been everyone's thought, that somehow Farrell is responsible for the virus, but in truth, it's just a virus and common enough and, as you say, can happen at any time.
And it will indeed get much worse before it gets better (as it always does).
I'm glad you think Alex is a nice guy, which he is, trained killer or not.
Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it very much.