Elf Academy Part Deux by Fiondil
harrowcat · 6 February 2012 · Chapter 7: History Lessons
Another big grin on my face. I am feeling soooo sorry for Alex. And, YAY Zach is getting a look in!
Author's reply
Hi Harrowcat. It's good that you feel sorry for Alex. He needs a lot of sympathy. LOL! And we'll be seeing Zach very soon, I promise.
Larner · 6 February 2012 · Chapter 7: History Lessons
Ah, a moment of panic when all former lessons have gone out the window. Now, to see how he handles his breakdown. And Derek is there to help him get through it, I think.
Author's reply
Very true, Larner. We'll see in the next chapter how Alex fares and who helps him, but Derek will be there for him. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. I appreciate it.
6336 · 6 February 2012 · Chapter 7: History Lessons
Oh, dear, Alex does seem to be having a hard time of it dosen't he, it is almost as if he is getting burnt out, or has been away from intelligance work for a while and has forgotten all he knows. The Elves really are having a strange affect on him, is there some Peredhel in his ancestory? Now, I am starting to have some doubts about Derek, he almost seems too good to be true, is he from another agency? What is it about Americans and English accents, what accent, they're the ones with the accent?! (After, about the third "Gee, I like you're accent!" or "I just love you're accent!"I am ready to throttle some people!) Waiting for Friday to see what happens next. Huggs, Lynda
Author's reply
Hi Lynda. Yeah, Alex is not having it easy, that's for sure. As for Derek... we'll have to wait and see. Some people are just what they seem, no matter how "too good to be true" they appear. I lived in England just long enough to pick up the intonation if not the accent. Drove people crazy when I came home. *grin* Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it very much.
Erulisse (one L) · 6 February 2012 · Chapter 7: History Lessons
Well, my friend, you may have just gotten me as close to Elf Academy as I will ever get with the memory of the previous year's Christmas in the boondocks of Minnesota - LOL. Alex needs some serious thinking and it's hard to judge the relative merits of something without a clear picture. Interesting chapter... - Erulisse (one L)
Author's reply
Hi Erulisse. That's a lot closer than I've been. LOL! Alex is only seeing the surface of things and that can be very misleading and of course he probably walked in with certain expectations that aren't being met and he doesn't know how to deal with that. Glad you found the chapter interesting. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it.
Sunny · 6 February 2012 · Chapter 7: History Lessons
So Alex likes the language lessons, at least! but the elf History was clearly too much for him. And Ambrose Elwood was Amroth. I can't say I'm surprised!
Author's reply
Given the non-reaction of most of the reviewers to the revelation that Ambrose is Amroth, I suspect most readers figured that's who it had to be and weren't surprised. *grin* But we will learn later on just how it was that Amroth even got involved with the Agency in the first place and perhaps that little revelation will be surprising to many. Thanks for commenting, Sunny. I appreciate it.
Ces · 6 February 2012 · Chapter 7: History Lessons
Very interesting conversation between the elves. Alex is getting flustered, knows it, but hates it! Love his point about why learn a made up language, learn about a history of non-existent race - he must be thinking he's the only sane person in that school! Is he ever in for a huge surprise! And Zach will be making an appearance soon - yay! I'm interested to see how the mortals are fitting in here. The story keeps getting better - thanks!
Author's reply
Hi Ces. He probably does think he's the only sane person in the school. *grin* Glad you enjoyed this chapter. Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it.
UTfrog · 6 February 2012 · Chapter 7: History Lessons
Yea! Monday morning and time for an update. This was a very satisfying chapter. We know we will see Zack son. Everyone is acting very much in character and the plot is moving along. Thank you.
Author's reply
Hi UTFrog. Glad you liked the chapter and that you think everyone is acting very much in character and the plot is moving along. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it very much.
obsidianj · 5 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
Alex (I like his incognito name more than the real one) seems to work himself into a frenzy. Since he takes his assignment seriously, he sees suspicious things everywhere. On top of that he seems to have a strong sensitivity to the elves and his surroundings, which makes things worse. His questions about the languages were the questions I would have asked when I would have attended this academy to become an elf-guide. Just his tone was out of place. Would it be possible to get a list of characters with their names and elf names that could be updated later as the story progresses? I admit, I get a bit lost with all the names.
Author's reply
Hi obsidianj. Alex has no reason not to take his assignment seriously, but events seem to conspire to make him react in ways he normally would not as a trained agent under deep cover. I had thought about providing a list of the names of the Elves and their "mortal" names, but in doing so, I would have revealed the true identity of Ambrose/Ryan and I want that to remain a mystery until it was time to reveal his identity. Even if I supplied a character list at some point it would give away the surprise (if it is indeed one of any reader) so I'm afraid you'll have to make your own list as the story goes along and I give the Elvish and Mortal names of each Elf in the story. *grin* Anyway, thanks for reading and reviewing. I appreciate it very much.
Maeglin Yedi · 5 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
I'm so happy to come across this sequel. I really enjoyed the first story, which I read a year ago or so, and the sequel is great so far! It's so good to see these elves again in their Alaska setting, and I love the mystery of Alex and Ryan. Can't wait to see where it is all going. I hope you'll update soon!
Author's reply
Hello Maeglin Yedi. I'm so happy that you found this sequel as well. I'm glad you enjoyed the first story and am enjoying this one. I update on Mondays and Fridays, so you won't have long to wait for the next chapter. *grin* Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. I really appreciate it.
Larner · 4 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
Alex is obviously an empathic receiver of some sensitivity, and recognizes there is something there beyond the normal. No wonder he learned well from his former mentor. And he is very sensitive to the presence of the Elves among the teachers, which I find quite interesting. Nicely done, and makes the tarn a good testing device for those mandated to seek out more guardians for training.
Author's reply
There are hidden depths to Alex (no pun intended), depths of which even he is unaware at this time. And Glorfindel has apparently decided the tarn was a good testing place to see who among the students were the most sensitive, although it is only one such test and someone like Derek who apparently felt nothing odd about the place isn't automatically disqualified for inclusion into the 'Army of Light' that the Elves are slowly forming among the Mortals. Thanks for commenting, Larner. It's much appreciated it.
someone · 4 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
It seems that Alex is getting very close to nervous breakdown, good thing that Glorfindel managed to calm him down a bit. Possibly the stress of having to face the fact that he is not in charge of the situation? Or the tarn really is that creepy... Did Glorfindel let him see him glow on purpose (what I'm really asking is that can the glow be controlled, or does everyone one of the elves guides in the dark see it)? Has the agency looked up everything about everyone at Academy connected with their old, supposedly dead agent, if they even know the old profession of the Sindarin teacher? "--his job was to find out what Ambrose Elwood was doing alive when he should be safely dead--" That was funny and more true than Alex knew, Ambrose would be much safer with Namo than preparing for Armageddon! You know, reading the reviews and the responses for Elf Academy stories is part of the fun. It seems that this story somehow forces lurkers into reviewing, I had to do that in the first story and there seem to be several others with this one. Could it be because this kind of story has been done never before?
Author's reply
Hi someone. Alex certainly isn't having an easy time of it, that's for sure. I think the glowing is unconscious on the part of the Elves. It's not something they can turn on or off but I think they can hide it a bit and in normal daylight it would be virtually undetectable by human eyes. We'll see what the Agency has found out about our Elves eventually. Alex will be receiving a package with some interesting information soon. I have noticed that certain stories of mine draw out lurkers. Perhaps it's the humor or the odd twist of the story (Elves in the modern world). I don't really know. I appreciate the fact that something in my stories so touches a person that they just have to come out of lurker-mode to tell me. Sometimes, I never hear from them again; other times, they become faithful reviewers. But getting a note from someone saying nothing more than, "I love this. It made my day" is more precious to me than all the mithril in Moria. Anyway, thank you for taking the time to read and review. I appreciate it very much.
Lizbeth · 3 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
Another excellent chapter! I loved Gil's response to Alex's interrogation, but I'm also starting to feel a little sorry for Alex. He's having a rather stressful time of it, poor guy... creeped out by Daeron, beaten by Elrohir, told-off by Gilvegil, and "supervised" by Glorfindel. No wonder he's acting strange. I thought the Winterdark Tarn scene was especially interesting. I keep wondering why only certain mortals can whatever it is that hides in the tarn. I'd like to ask you, and also ask if "it" will wake up this time around, but I have a feeling you won't spill the beans just yet. *grin*
Author's reply
Hi Lizbeth. Yeah, Alex is barely holding his own with the Elves and he's only been there 2 days. Some mortals are just more sensitive to things than others. Some people can pick up on 'vibes' that others don't notice. Alex is one of them. And I sincerely hope whatever sleeps in the tarn does not wake up. That would be very bad. Very bad. *grin* Thanks for taking the time to read and review. It's much appreciated.
harrowcat · 3 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
I eagerly await each new episode and am detrirmined to savour each chapter but, like a greedy child, I find myself racing through it. Then I have abide patiently until the next chapter! Loving every word and really glad that Winterdark Tarn is still being watched. Is it nastier than last year?
Author's reply
HI Harrowcat. Well, nothing is stopping you from re-reading the chapter at a slower pace while waiting for the next one. *grin* The tarn isn't so much nastier from when we first encountered it, as we're seeing it through Alex's eyes and experiencing what he is feeling. Mortals are going to react differently than Elves to what lies below. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. I really appreciate it.
Soledad · 3 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
Are we ever to learn the secret behind Winterdark Tarn? And isn't Glorfindel just a wee bit cavalier about what the students might wake up with their stones? In a manner, he *is* their minder, I'd say - he *is* responsible for them and that they turn out well, isn't he? Loved the Sindarin teacher, though. I could just see the glassy eyes of his students when he walked in and started talking in Sindarin. I get the same reaction from my pupils all too often. ;)
Author's reply
Hi Soledad. Well, strictly speaking, Glorfindel isn't their minder as they are all adults and he has no power to dictate their actions for them. The best he can do is be there. And of course, unless they set up a station and man it 24/7 they can't prevent anyone from using the trail and coming to the tarn. Glad you liked Gil. He's a fun charactar to play with. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.
Tari · 3 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
Methinks Ambrose Ellwood is yet another elf. There seems to be quite a few of them at the Academy. Alex Grant is in for a big surprise. (I wonder if he read LOTR.)
Author's reply
Hi Tari. Oh, there's no doubt that Ambrose is one of the Elves. The question still remains as to which one he is. There are, in fact, 15 Elves at the Academy. In this version of the universe, Tolkien never wrote LOTR so no one has a clue about the possibility of Elves existing except in fairytales. Thanks for reading and reviewing. It's very much appreciated.
6336 · 3 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
Winterdark Tarn seems to have a very strong affect on some people, not too sure I would want to visit it but then again it would be interesting to see what affect it would have on me. Poor Alex, he is not having a very easy time is he, maybe, once he gets his persona's sorted out he will be better. Derek is doing O.K. it seems, though there must be something he is not good at. Well Gil cetainly put him in his place, it looks like the Elves know just who and what he is and are intent on giving him enough rope. Glorfindel to the rescue, again! This is a lot more 'adult' than part 1 was, but I am likeing this, very much so. Huggs, Lynda
Author's reply
Hi Lynda. Alex has no idea what is really going on so he's having trouble finding his bearings and things will only get worse for him before they get better. And this sequel is probably more 'adult' or perhaps more serious than the first part, which can almost be seen as a very long prologue to the real story which we see here. Originally, I'd no intention of writing a sequel; it was just a one-shot, written for amusement. A sequel implies that there's something worth writing about and that's usually because of some kind of conflict that's arisen or the happy ending in the first part turns out not to be so happy later on, otherwise there's no point in writing a sequel if nothing "bad" happens. Anyway, thanks for reading and reviewing. I very much appreciate it.
Ces · 3 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
Poor Alex - he's definitely in over his head at the moment isn't he? Doesn't know what to think. But he is aware that there is something different about some of the academy inhabitants. I like Derek too; he has a way with the reindeer and doesn't seem to mind learning a whole new language - he just takes it in stride. BTW, where so I sign up for that class?! Winterdark trail seems to be some sort of test for the students. If the branch moved for Glorfindel I wonder how the trees react to wood elves -that would probably totally freak out Alex! Looking forward to Monday - only two days! The wait from Monday to Friday is really hard you know!
Author's reply
Hi Ces. He is indeed over his head, though he doesn't quite realize it. I'm glad you like Derek. He's pretty cool even if he's not as sensitive to things as Alex appears to be. Apparently the Elves are using the Winterdark Tarn as a preliminary testing ground to see how sensitive the students are. It doesn't necessarily mean that they would not be considered to join 'the Team' if they don't react to the tarn, but more to ensure that the more sensitive don't find themselves at the tarn on their own or without one of the Elves there. Sorry for the waiting time, but unfortunately it can't be helped. Thanks for leaving a comment, though. I appreciate it.
Erulisse (one L) · 3 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
Oh, how I wish there was a class in Sindarin, and some native speakers to learn from. I'm so totally envious. Alex's reactions at the tarn were more than interesting. The net that the Academy has cast is pulling in some very talented people. It wouldn't surprise me at all to see Alex as part of the faculty at some point. - Erulisse (one L)
Author's reply
Hi Erulisse. I wish I were in Gil's Sindarin class for real, too. Alex as a faculty member... we'll have to see if that ever becomes a reality. Too early to tell which way he's going to go. Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it very much.
UTfrog · 3 February 2012 · Chapter 6: Field Trips and Nature Walks
Thanks for another great chapter. Loved the Star Trek reference. I have been a fan since 1966 which sadly reveals that I must be "old". I did not read Lord of the Rings until 1969 when I bought the Ballentine paperbacks for 95 cents each. Loved that Alex reacts to the tarn, but I thought he might. Also liked that Alex is very realistic. He is not superman and sees that. His jealousy over things he cannot do is well handled. The wait until Monday's chapter is not too bad but the wait from Monday to Friday nearly kills me.
Author's reply
Hi UTfrog. Well, I'm up there with you age-wise. I remember the first episode of Star Trek and I think it was around 1970 that I started reading Tolkien. I'm glad you found Alex's jealousy and the way he handled it to be realistic. And I'm sorry there's such a long gap between chapters during the week, but no matter which days I post the chapters, there's always going to be a longer gap at one point than at another. That you are anxious for the next chapter is a good sign (for me). *grin* Thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.
obsidianj · 31 January 2012 · Chapter 5: Alex’s First Day
Alex has an interesting reaction to the elves. He not only notices their beauty, but he senses something more. It is downright creepy. His fear probably stems from the not knowing who and what these extremely beautiful people are. He can be proud for being a challenge to Elrohir. He may not realize what a feat that is until he gets the full story. Can't wait to see the next move.
Author's reply
Hi obsidianj. He does have an interesting reaction to the Elves, doesn't he? I suspect you're right about his fear stemming from the not knowing. And, of course, he has no idea that he should be proud of himself for holding up to Elrohir as long as he did. I'm glad you're enjoying this. Thankd for leaving a commment and letting me know. I appreciate it very much.
bookworm · 31 January 2012 · Chapter 5: Alex’s First Day
DUN DUN DUN and the plot thickens! Alas, that's about as coherent as I get right now but am really looking forwards to the next instalment!
Author's reply
Indeed, it does, bookworm. Glad you are enjoying this so far. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it very much.
Soledad · 30 January 2012 · Chapter 5: Alex’s First Day
Just checked my facts and realized that Roy is, in fact, Elrohir. *is stupid* Sorry.
Author's reply
Don't worry about it, Soledad. Even one of my betas couldn't remember who Roy was. LOL!
someone · 30 January 2012 · Chapter 5: Alex’s First Day
That was funny, I didn't think the elves would be experts in karate etc. martial arts. But it definitely was entertainig to see Elrohir beat Alex! Alex is apparently getting quite nervous, which makes one wonder if he is the only one to get scared by the "staff" at the academy. Or are the elves doing it on purpose?
Author's reply
Hi someone. Well, given that they've lived among humans and all, I would imagine the warriors among them especially would be eager to learn anything that would make them better warriors, including martial arts and they've had millennia to perfect their skills. Not sure if Alex is scared for himself or if the Elves (or others) are doing something to scare him. Either way, his confidence is taking a nosedive here. Thanks for commenting. I really appreciate it.
Truffles · 30 January 2012 · Chapter 5: Alex’s First Day
And another thing (apologies for the double post): According to the first part of Elf Acadamy, the people of Wiseman, and a good deal of the original first-year students of the acadamy know the truth of the elves, correct (or perhaps I read that incorrectly)? At first I was under the impression that everyone would be aware of their identities, but that's evidently not true- guess I'll have to wait and see how the relation is between the students and the "townies" are, if one group knows and the other doesn't, especially if the elves had revealed their identities to the groups they were touring, and some of those people also came back as students? Truffles
Author's reply
The good people of Wiseman and a good portion of the college population is aware of who and what the Elves are, but, as we will see in this story, not everyone attending Elf Academy will learn the truth, only those whom the Elves feel will be sympathetic to them.
Truffles · 30 January 2012 · Chapter 5: Alex’s First Day
I was introduced to your writing a year ago, with Elf Acadamy (part un), and have been hooked ever since, though I've lurked in the shadows for that entire time. When I saw that you were posting a sequel, I was more than ecstatic; the concept of elves in the modern era has always been intriguing to me, but unfortunately ninety-nine percent of fanfiction written with it in mind is posted by thirteen year old girls with little to no writing skills (add a few more years to the thirteen, and I'd be included in that catagory as well). Anyways, I figured it's not very fair to you as a writer that I wouldn't take two minutes to sound my appreciation for the who knows how much time you've taken to create a well written, highly enjoyable tale (that even updates consistantly!). I'm really looking forward to reading whatever comes next, and am curious to see if the whatever-it-was in the tarn makes another appearance, and of course what the elves plan to do with this "Alex Grant." Thanks again for sharing your words with the rest of us, Truffles P.S. My apologies if this post contains blaring spelling errors. I'm using a Dutch computer, and it underlines all of my English as incorrect spelling, making it rather difficult to proofread! :)
Author's reply
Hi Truffles. No apologies necessary. I had to deal with a German keyboard for some time and it was a real pain. *grin* I'm so glad this story inspired you to come out of lurker-mode, if only one time. I love getting reviews from people who normally don't leave reviews. We may not know what lurks in the tarn, but the tarn will play a pivotal role in this story. And, of course, we'll be seeing what the Elves have planned for Alex and vice versa. Thanks for taking the time to read and review. I really appreciate it.