Reviews (1,161)

Nariel · 17 June 2007 · Chapter 80: Once Again to Lórien

What does Amarie think of all this? I read somewhere that Tolkien said ALL elves have REALLY good memories. Apparently Finrod, doesn't have the best. Isn't he forgetting his Betrothal to Amarie that NEEDS to END. Your Finrod has endeared himself to me. He is so kind, sweet, brave, and not least handsome. who wouldn't go for a guy like that in Middle Earth? I like the part though where Finrod leaves Earnur to watch Vorondil and adds to keep the language clean. LOL. Heh...heh..

Nariel · 17 June 2007 · Chapter 26: The Cost of Kingship

Yeah, I am sorry for all these reviews in one day because i sort of (scratch head awkwardly) found how you make reviews, so basically i have known about your story since December and I just found out how to make reviews! WOW, I sure need a brain surgery!!

Nariel · 17 June 2007 · Chapter 25: Feasts and Follies

WOW!! Fiondil, this was very eventful... I liked the part where Finrod and Amarie kissed. AAAHHH... It was SO romantic. Now that kiss gave Amarie something to remember after a whole AGE to ponder mistakes and such and such.

Nariel · 17 June 2007 · Chapter 17: An Elleth Scorned

I absolutely LOVE the chapters with Amarie. You make her seem more than a 2-D character. Fiondil, will you please get her in the story more? I'm in a phase where I love Finrod stories currently. Oh yeah! In the chapter I liked how emotional you made Amarie, so that we (the readers) will understand and share to a certain extent the character's feelings. Also, continue updating faster please!!!!!!!!!!

Rhyselle · 13 June 2007 · Chapter 78: Consequences

"B-but Vorondil hates me." Glorfindel tried to explain. "He...he did what he did because he...he hates me and... and now you’re stuck with him... and his atar!" He was practically wailing again and it proved too much for Finrod, who hugged him closer and laughed. This so shows the difference in maturity between the two Reborn. I do think that the trauma that Glorfindel has undergone since he was abducted has caused him to regress a bit from where he was before that moment. You never said how many years of the sun that went by while Glorfindel was still in Mandos and then in Lorien, while Finrod was Reborn and with his family in Tirion, but this scene points out that a significant amount of time had passed to allow Finrod to get to the point he is here, where he is again resuming the mantle of Kingship. I thought that Finrod's being concerned for Sador was touching as well. His reassurances when Sador asked about Lord Orome's interest in the Sinda were perfect. Oh my, another thing we learn about the Life Oath... I wonder if Manwen felt anything in Lorien? The implications of the political and social impact Life Oaths have, as well as the other oaths of fealty that the elves of Endore made, are beginning to show up. Perhaps the "elflinghood" period of the Reborn is not just a way for the Reborn to adjust to living again, but also a protection to those they are reborn to, to give time for such complications to be worked out... When one thinks about the close detail of the Halls of Mandos, the very idea that when Arda was being created that it was known they would be necessary, it is a stunning thought that Lord Namo was also creating the process of the re-embodiment along with his brother... before any of the Children of Eru came into the world. Arafinwë stared at Finrod in surprise. "But why should he look for forgiveness from me? If anything it is I who should ask for his forgiveness for deserting all of you, for turning back like a coward because..." "Atar!" Finrod shouted in shock, taking Arafinwë by the shoulders and practically shaking him. "You are no coward! And you did not desert us. It was we who were the cowards, slinking away in the dark because we were too proud or too frightened to accept Mercy when offered to us. No. My uncle and all the others will be the ones looking for forgiveness." For a long moment father and son stared at one another and then Arafinwë nodded once and Finrod gathered him into his arms and gave him a fierce hug, kissing him on the cheek before releasing him. Oh, this brought me to tears... to think that Arafinwe has thought this of himself for all these yeni... I'm so glad that Finrod was able to disabuse him of that notion. I certainly thought of Arafinwe as being stronger than those who did not turn back. Oh boy! The mental image of what the room looked like when Finrod and Glorfindel came in was terrifyingly vivid! Poor Laurendil... obviously all of this has hit him terribly hard... I bet Aldundil's breakdown is one of those consequences that Lord Manwe warned Finrod about. Yep, I was right. I can see Laurendil's confusion as Finrod makes the comment about Lord Manwe... Oh, poor Vorondil! Bad enough to be made into a thrall, and not to know what the future will bring, and then to have his own father attack him! But then to open his eyes and see the person he'd harmed right there... No wonder he screamed... he must have thought that Glorfindel was going to attack him too. How kind of Glorfindel to sing the ellon to sleep and to think of trimming his hair even. There are probably a lot of people who would not have thought twice if Glorfindel had been harsh to Vorondil... but here, Glorfindel shows his quality. :) Hmmm. It just hit me that by making Vorondil his thrall, Finrod actually is protecting him--not just from execution, but from other retribution at the hands of others who might be angry about what Vorondil had done. Not that I think that Vorondil will have it easy, since I'm sure that word of this will be all over Aman as fast as people can ride to send messages. Aldundil will probably realize that wearing his warrior braids is a punishment about the fifteenth time he has to explain what they are and why he is wearing them *grin* Ah, the stuffed toy appears again! :) Every elfling needs a stuffed toy! It was interesting to see the change in feeling that Finrod had for Vorondil. The father aspect of being a king is showing... and since he now holds the authority over Vorondil that Aldundil formerly held, thanks to the oath, it makes sense for him to have fatherly feelings. After such a set of intense, emotional scenes throughout the trial and in the immediate aftermath, I'm so very glad to see the chapter end up on a lighter note... Glorfindel somehow knows just when to be silly and fun to perk up his gwedyr. :) I look forward to seeing what happens next for our Reborn friends and those with whom they travel.

Rhyselle · 13 June 2007 · Chapter 77: Trial's Ending

Ingwe asking Finrod to sit in judgment with him and Arafinwe was a perfect follow up to the events of the prior chapter. The transformation in the eyes of the observers from Finrod to Ruler must have been amazing. The bit about the prisoners being unable to resist the potency and power of the three kings was a bit shiver-inducing. I certainly would not have wanted to have stood before them and had to confess wrong doings... I got the feeling reading this, that it lightly echoed standing before the Valar in the Mahaxanar. And having Lord Namo there too... "What the Elder King chooses to reveal to you Children and when he chooses to do so is his business. If Glorfindel says these others are hiding in Eldamas, I would suggest you take his word for it." Here he paused and gave them all a brilliant smile. "For some reason, my brother is rather fond of our little Balrog-slayer." He looked directly at the prisoners then, his expression never changing. "So he takes a rather dim view of all that has happened to him... as do I." This is another shiver-inducing moment. It sounds odd that Lord Namo smiling is as frightening as Lord Namo frowning, but that's what I got out of it. Certainly the prisoners seem to feel likewise! Again, Finrod seems to take over this chapter. His response to Tulcaner's anger was just amazing to me. I got so emotionally involved in this scene that I was breathless when I sat back at the end of it. Lord Namo's talking to the people in the room about Finrod's death was another that goes on my list of top ten scenes in this tale. The character testimonial he gave was wonderful. Besides informing the Amaneldi of just what and who this Reborn kind was and did, he was able to add to the ongoing education of the Eldar about Judgment. He's telling them the same things that the Reborn have been saying but the Amaneldi really hadn't been listening before. " ... Faithful or no, Rebel or no, Judgment comes to all who enter Mandos. Eru decrees it and I see it done. Judgment most often is the most terrifying thing any face, but afterwards comes Forgiveness and Reconciliation and the Renewal of Hope. Love there is and Mercy and none who come before us come chained." Wow... That reiteration just gets to me every time I read it. I do like it that he doesn't tell them why the Amaneldi kinsmen are not yet being released, but he reassured them with his promise that they would be released in time. And when a Vala gives a promise, we know it will be kept. Patience and Faith... two of the hardest things for the Children of Eru to exercise, but oh the most worthy! "Did We not warn you, my brother, after the last time, that you should watch yourself? We know you have no fear of Us, but Ingwion is another matter...." He nodded in satisfaction when Ingoldo blanched. "Yes, and We would like nothing better than to leave you to his tender mercies." Oh I do wish that Ingwion and Ingwe would tell you just what the heck they are referring to in regards to Ingoldo's former actions. This is so frustrating to know there's a story there but the characters aren't telling it. LOL! The sentencing of the guilty is done well. I'm glad that no elf will be forced to go to Formenos to be gaurds to ensure that the banished prisoners do not seek to return. I am amused at the mental image of Tinwetariel tending sheep... *snicker* Although she'll probably bully the other prisoners to do it for her... The fact that an Age's banishment may not yet be the end of the punishment of Ingoldo and Tinwetariel is an interesting thought. I suspect that the lesson that Lord Namo will be teaching the other prisoners upon their release is that of Atonement. Although I truly can't imagine what task they could be given that would allow them to redress the wrongs they've done. And I wonder if Tulcaner ever will learn to repent of what he did. I look forward to seeing the pronouncement of the Doom against Ingoldo and Tinwetariel.

eiluj · 12 June 2007 · Chapter 99: End-game

Being punished by having to card wool: I always thought carding was a treat (I used to card for a friend who spun her own yarn). But I’m weird. His partners stared in stunned horror at the fallen ellon for a moment before turning to run. -- Even if the dead elf wasn’t particularly a friend of theirs, they’ve almost-certainly never seen anyone die before, so I spose they’re forgiven for trying to flee in horror. On the other hand, they don’t know for certain he’s dead, so their flight might also signify callous disregard for his fate, or general ineptitude.... I’m glad Glorfindel got some help in his fight with the most hapless elves in history. (Not that he actually needed help, of course.) Silly elf! Nothing makes him happy: when he didn’t get any help, he resented it; this time, they *do* help, and he resents it. The others congregating on the street listened with unabashed interest to their conversation, all the while, studiously not looking at Lord Námo standing near by. -- So the next time there's a fuss, they'll think twice about rubbernecking ... not knowing if Námo might show up. More fuel for gossip! Lucky for Ingwë those bystanders didn't follow him to Martandur and Míriel's house.

MithLuin · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 100: Míriel and the High King

*slaps head* Oh, right, Aranwë. I have him mixed up with Amandil father of Elendil. Sorry about that... Shouldn't try to be brilliant on just a little sleep ;). True, it was still an accident, but it's manslaughter (elf-slaughter?), not accidental death. Or something like that. I really don't know the legal terms, just that there are about 9 shades of meaning to "I killed someone"... Off to get some sleep

Rhyselle · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 76: An Interlude Among Kings

OK... this chapter is... Wow! *staring at the screen still stunned* Ingwe is very intimidating... While I don't have any relatives in positions of power, I have met some very senior military officers in my career... and I have seen them transition from the nice social individuals who ask about the kids and how college is going, to the Commander who holds authority over me... their physical features do not change, but they certainly don't look like they do when they're asking if my cat had new kittens yet. Ingwe definitely feels that Finrod has run roughshod over his authority in his own court. So I was right in my assumption that Aldundil set something in motion that Finrod didn't have full control over. And now, as Finrod explains, Ingwe and Arafinwe both start to see him as a ruler in his own right. That was a drawback of the "elfling" behavior that Finrod displayed when he was released from Mandos... it made it impossible for his family to truly accept that Finrod was a King and had made decisions as a ruler that were just as hard, if not harder, than any that they had made in their centuries of ruling in Aman. They don't have a choice now; the proof of Finrod's status has pretty much been shoved down their throats by the day's events. I can hear the implacableness in Finrod's voice as he tells his father and uncle that Aldundil will wear his warrior braids again. And when he suddenly loses his anger and sits down, I can just see his expression, when he admits that he doesn't know what to do with Aldundil now. Manwe's appearance was perfect! And I loved how he pointed out that they were all rulers; reinforcing Finrod's status to the older kings. I am interested in what the ramifications of the oath being taken in anger will be. I can totally empathize with Finrod's feeling that he'd been given no choice at all about it. It is good to see he already regrets his anger. I loved Manwe admitting that even he didn't know how to avoid being forced into an action by circumstances out of his control. Valar are powerful but they are not perfect, ominiscient beings who cannot be surprised by actions that other beings of free will do. Ingwe's humbling himself and apologizing to Finrod for his snap judgment of Finrod's actions was very moving. And that he admits that he grieves over the changes that Finrod's experiences in Endor forced on the younger king. His admission of pride in his nephew was exactly what Finrod needed to hear after the traumatic Oathtaking, as was Arafinwe's. Oh, I've always loved the descriptions of Lord Namo's embraces, but to feel Lord Manwe's love in the way that you describe here was incredible. Wow... I found it interesting that it was Finrod who called the end to the recess, and not Ingwe or Arafinwe. And that last line said it all... Finrod went into the room with them as Finderato, but came back out a recognized King. I think I can understand why this chapter got so few reviews... it's relatively short and there's not a lot of "action" in it; but the subtle and not so subtle dynamics between the three Eldar, and the change in the relationship between Ingwe and Finrod, and Arafinwe and Finrod really made this an incredibly important chapter. As a reflection of character development, it tops almost everything else you've written so far, IMO. Well done!

Rhyselle · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 75: A Surprising Turn of Events

Valandur gave the Vala a wry smile. "Do we dare hope that Lord Oromë will make an appearance before this court?" This made me smile and the reaction of Ingwion right after, stepping quickly aside made me laugh. It must be wonderful to hear the laughter of the Valar... I do hope that one day, Ingwion will tell you of the first meeting he ever had with Lord Orome. The interaction between them during the Hunt was interesting but this exchange was even more so. It's obvious that Ingwion will be dealing with the issues that led to his accusing Lord Manwe... and, at least to me, equally obvious that the Valar have his well being in mind with this plan to send Ingwion to Nienna. I've noticed that most people after having a one on one with a Valar end up in someone's comforting hug. Orome's explanations for why each person was called to the Hunt was a succinct description of character. I have to admit that "Ingwion for his insolence" made me feel embarressed right along with the Prince. The bit that started with the question that Valadur asked about Vorondil's ragged hair was just incredible. Aldundil's reaction was striking--and heartbreaking. The description of how he grabbed the sword and the chaos, and Namo's reaction to stem it made a movie in my mind. The single light in the storm darkness of the chamber and everything focused on Aldundil and Finrod... well... it was amazing. And even though I knew that Sador, Laurendil, Glorfindel and Ingwion were there at Finrod's side, they almost didn't matter. I never did think, even when Aldundil grabbed the sword, that he was going to try to kill Finrod, but I certainly had not expected that he would offer his own life for Vorondil's. That certainly threw a spanner into the works! At first I wondered why, if Finrod chose to not take Aldundil's Life Oath, why he would be expected to execute Vorondil. But as the scene went on, I understood that there were deeper layers involved, particularly when I remembered that Vorondil was a soul twisted by hate. It made me even angrier at Ingoldo and Tinwetariel for how they took his existing despite for the Reborn, and Glorfindel in particular, and increased it and used it for their own purposes. The Oathtaking was, in a lot of ways, more profound and majestic, and awe-some than the one that Finrod and Manwen exchanged. The former oathtaking was borne of love... this one born of justice--and mercy. I was also rather upset that Aldundil put Finrod on the spot like he did, but Finrod came through with flying colours. He was the King of Nargothrond in these moments, even more than when Manwen offered her life into his keeping. Ingwe's response was a bit scary--after all, he is the High King, and normally when he forbid something, one would go along with it... but it was obvious to me that even though Finrod chose not to execute Aldundil on behalf of Vorondil, it was Finrod's decision and had nothing to do with Ingwe's order. I would not want to experience what must have been going through Vorondil's mind as Finrod spoke to him. Terror, guilt, shame, horror... I truly pity the child, although I do not feel that he should escape from the entire situation without having to bear the consequences of his actions and choices. Aldundil may have exchanged his life for Vorondil's but he could not take Vorondil's guilt upon himself. In this whole scene, including the refusal to allow Ingwe further say over Vorondil's fate, I can see the Finrod that was the Felagund, the friend and oath brother of Beren, and the one who dared to challenge Sauron in a duel of songs of power. This is the Finrod that only those in Middle-earth saw, and his family in Aman is only now beginning to recognize. It's obvious that Ingwe doesn't like being overruled, but when told that Manwe has decreed it... what choice does he have? The way the duration of Vorondil's thralldom was decided was appropriate, IMO. And, when looked at in the lifespan of the Eldar, a mere drop of time (although I'm certain that Vorondil might not see it that way from his perspective of living 30 years serving Finrod). Tbe echoes of the Exile of Feanor in Namo's Doomsaying made me shiver. And I shivered again when Finrod said that they would see if Vorondil would be released at the end of the 30 years. Calalindale must feel caught up in a tide she can't control by the time this sequence is over. It was good to see Finrod's words of comfort to her before he sent the family to their apartments. Obviously, Ingwe is not happy about any of this. But then what king would be happy when his authority in his own hall is taken over by another ruler who could be held to be subordinate to him? *grin* I look forward to the consequences of Finrod's kingly actions here. And Namo and Orome exchanging satisfied grins made me shudder a bit too, although it also made me think that they had predicted at least some of what had just happened! This was one of the most intense chapters so far in this fic, I think, as much because it impacts everything and not just Glorfindel's life. On to the next chapter!

MithLuin · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 100: Míriel and the High King

Well, Glorfindel certainly handled himself better this time, though I was a bit shocked that someone...died. Here! In the Blessed Realm... That's only supposed to happen by accident. But now at least we know why Finrod didn't react! Ohhh, I know what happened to Amandil! He joined Turgon's group, and became the father of Voronwë (Tuor's guide and close friend). Does Glorfindel remember him?

Beruthiels Cat · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 100: Míriel and the High King

LOL!!! Every time I see that phrase I'm going to think of Celeborn correcting Arwen's pronunciation... Ingwë has some serious bite marks on his backside courtesy of Lady Miriel *chortles* I'm surprised she didn't SMACK him with that spoon! I'm glad there's a solution everyone can live with. Most excellent! BC

Beruthiels Cat · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 99: End-game

I like the way you sprung the trap. *g* If anyone (especially Glorfindel)had known in advance, the bad guys could have picked up on it. Also love the "slapstick" participation in Glor's fight by the Maiar! I think Glorfindel would realize when he has time to put this in perspective-especially regarding royal prerogative and his history with Turgon-that order must be maintained. I can't see him holding a grudge over it, after all, Ingwë IS trying to protect him! If I remember right, Vairë told Námo a few chapters back that black really isn't his color, lol...although in this instance the intimidation factor as well as his being there in his "official" capacity would make the black appropriate/necessary. Any chance of our being able to get a sneak peek as to what Námo finds to do with the two he has claimed? BC

Rhyselle · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 74: Trial's Beginning

Well, Tinwetariel just sunk her own canoe, didn't she? And while intellectually, I know that Ingwe is the High King, this is really the first time that I really felt it. I can understand why Tinwetariel went pale at his words. Vorondil just doesn't get it that he can't get away with what he did. I know he's a minor but still... It's tempting to put the blame for what he's grown up to be so far at Aldundil's feet, for not being honest with his son about the War of Wrath and all that, but from Calalindale's reactions, I now think that she was as much at fault in how she reared her child as Aldundil was. Not a wonderfully functional family once one gets below the surface appearances. The bit about Glorfindel's nervousness and nightmares that he can't be comforted from really got to me. He still doesn't know the close detail of what happened to him, and until he does, I'm certain that his imagination will paint the detail he does know with lurid and frightening additions. The weather seems a bit... convenient... doesn't it? *grin* Quite a way to set the scene--the Blessed Realm mourning the fall of the Eldar who broke her Peace. The description of the setting and of Ingwe and Arafinwe in their majesty demands not just a picture that I have not the skill to draw, but a tapestry of rich and royal colours, like those I saw in Westminster Abbey when I last visited London. So Ingwe's Steward is an elleth. :) I love how in your interpretation of the lives of the Eldar, that it is skill that counts, not gender. Glorfindel's outfit reminds me of my mental image of the dress of the Galadrim in Lothlorien... the one I had in my head long before the films came out. Lord Namo certainly does know how to make an entrance! To stand as witness for the Valar... ooh, that just gave me the shivers. No wonder Vorondil nearly fainted! That one on one between Namo and Glorfindel about the ellon's remembering being held and comforted by Lord Namo at the end of his Judgment was just incredible. I could see Namo shifting from Witness and Doomsman to Comforter--his focus shifting from the overall courtroom to Glorfindel--it was as if outside of the pair, time stood still. Although one might think that the diversion from the questioning was inappropriate from a jurisprudence procedureal point of view, it was what was needed not just to help Glorfindel, but also to show the attending Eldar more about the Reborn, and the gift of Judgment, Forgiveness and Reconciliation. And as quickly as it started, Glorfindel turns back to the court and time starts moving again. Tulkas' arrival was startling--even though I should have expected it! Forgive me, but he puts me in mind of a big, happy, Rotwieller puppy I once knew who never did remember that he was a huge galumping creature many, many times stronger than the kids that he played rambunctiously and joyously with. No malice in him, but he'd tumble even an adult over with his exuberance, and sit on one and half lick them to death! LOL! I bet Glorfindel was happy to be rescued by Lord Namo before he ended up in the healer's wing with broken ribs! Tulkas' personality really comes through here, even in such brief lines, particularly the final description "Then he was gone and it suddenly became easier to breathe." I certainly would not have wanted to be Vorondil when Namo said "My Lord Manwë was most displeased when he was told of the theft... as was I." The sad part was that I don't think that Vorondil even thought that his taking of the ring was something to be really concerned about until that moment. "I wonder who they will call next?" Alassiel asked curiously. Glorfindel gave her a meaningful look. "I’m wondering which of the Valar will show up next." LOL! That is exactly what was in my mind by this point. The mental image of Glorfindel twirling about like an elfling dancing, with light flashing off of the beads and jewels in his hair was wonderful. Although you do not mention Namo's expression at this point, I think I can see it in my mind's eye. Definitely a touch of amusement is in there, and love, of course, framed by the dignity of who he is. I do get the feeling that the next part of the trial is going to be a lot more serious...

Rhyselle · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 73: Reunion

I had to grin at the description of Alassiel's greeting to Glorfindel. Do elves suffer puppy love? I look at the emotional ages of the youngsters (and I still do consider Glorfindel a youngster in a lot of respects) and wonder how I'd cope if my adolescence had been as long as elven adolescences are. Teen-age angst is bad enough for the few years we go through it! "Nay, it was not an act of humility, at least not in the way you mean, but it was an act of love and I will be forever grateful." The themes of love and service and obedience throughout this tale come through here so well. Service has long been connected with love, but the lesson that an act of obedience is, when performed in its truest form, is also an act of love is one that is harder to learn. Most people obey out of habit (you do it just because you were trained to do it) or out of fear of consequences if they don't. Glorfindel's emotions must still be quite tangled right now. Joy to be reunited with his friends, of course, and humor as he talks with them, but underneath it all, he still needs to deal with the violation that he experienced. I'm certain that will happen in its own good time. The image of the Hunting party's return would make a wonderful Waterhouse style painting. As I've said before, I wish I had the skill to depict visually what you paint in words. Ingwe's amusement at how the members of the hunting party, even Arafinwe, forgot protocol in order to greet Glorfindel first, was a nice touch. Of course most of these elves are related to each other through blood or marriage, or oathtaking... The conversation that surrounded the return of Glorfindel's ring was a sobering counterpoint to the joy of the reunion. The list of crimes grows for the young ellon, and when Finrod added blasphemy to it, I couldn't help but shudder at what is potentially in store for Vorondil. The revelation that Formenos will be inhabited once more adds an even greater damper on the mood, but then our dear Balrog Slayer defuses it with his own inimitable style. I'm sure he yanked Sador's braid on purpose, and that the final consequences when Sador caught him in the garden was worth it. (I have this insistent thought that Sador tackled him and tickled him into submission *grin*) I felt very badly for Aldundil and Calalindale. No one wants to believe that their offspring are capable of heinous actions; and to learn that ones own actions and choices had part of leading the elfing to do what he did, however well meant... The demonstration of the Life Oath that Laurendil and Finrod presented was so powerful. Each time you have shown this special relationship, it chokes me up. So much love and so much trust tied between the two of them... One day I hope that they tell you the details of how that Oath was originally made between them. "And does that knowledge help mitigate his actions?" Aldundil asked hopefully. Laurendil shook his head. "No, mellon nîn. It only makes it worse for your son. I’m sorry." Ai, that is so sad, to see the last vestige of hope that it could all be a horrible mistake fade for Aldundil. No matter the outcome of the trial, he is likely going to feel a total failure as a parent for a long time to come, even though it was his son's choice to do what he did.

Kitty · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 100: Míriel and the High King

I *loved* Míriel in this chapter so much, cursing and giving the High King a piece of her mind. That was truly fun!!! It was great that she didn’t care for his rank, but told him what had to be told. And even throwing the ladle at him *snicker* And she was right – Ingwë owed them not only an explanation, but an apology as well, particularly Glorfindel. Well, at least Ingwë took it rather well and didn’t hold her words against her; that shows that he is a good leader, in my opinion. And I am glad they decided to make the thrall an apprentice instead. Much better. And now please excuse me – I have to go and get my ticket to Valinor and the best seat available for the tournament ;-)

Kitty · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 99: End-game

Glorfindel’s appetite after the training reminded me of the Hobbits. He will get along well with Merry and Pippin, I think – I can see him giving them sword lessons and then raiding the kitchen with them *grin* Finally! Had already waited for an attack on Glorfindel. Well, they again underestimated him, and again one of the attackers died. And I have to admit, it was rather amusing to 'see' the invisible Maia fighting with Glorfindel; something that was reassuring as well – I was a bit worried he would be injured, fighting unarmed against three armed assassins, so it was a relief to know he was protected so well. After the one died it was only to be expected that Námo showed up, but that he claimed the other two as well was quite the shock for everyone. The two will very soon rue the day they were born, I suppose. And the Valar have decided to tell Ingwë who the other baddies are? Good. These attacks have to stop. And I am glad Glorfindel made his peace with the High King, though I still find it unfair not to tell him anything earlier.

Beruthiels Cat · 8 June 2007 · Chapter 33: Connecting the Dots

Hi Fiondil! I'm re-reading through yout story again, lol...I wish I could retain as well as I used to, but such is not the casem so I'm now a repeater. (sighs) That's okay, though! I love reading it all again. Question: In this chapter you refer to Gondolin's not having been built for Turgon's benefit, but for another's-and I know I'm missing something obvious, but it just won't come to me. Whose benefit? Sorry to be so dense! BC

ellie · 6 June 2007 · Chapter 98: Further Fallout

I'm glad to know that Ingwe isn't as impervious as we seemed. I do feel a bit sorry for Ingwe though, too. I'm glad poor Glorfy has found some release for his anger and pain and that he is healing now. Glorfy has some good friends and his master is very wise, too, - all of which Glorfy really needs right now. I hope he does compete at the tournament and kicks some serious butt. I do wonder who Finarfin sent the message to. Don't even have a guess on that one except maybe for the returned exiles on their island or maybe Earendil. Looking forward to the next update!

Nieriel Raina · 5 June 2007 · Chapter 98: Further Fallout

This is such a wonderful story and I was so disappointed to reach this chapter where we are left wanting so much more! I am shipping you a box of very potent carrots grown in Lord Elrond's herb patch to feed your bunnies. I hope they are happy and insist on you writing much and often. *grin* Thank you for sharing such a fabulous tale! I look forward to seeing more...the sooner the better. NiRi

eiluj · 4 June 2007 · Chapter 98: Further Fallout

“I’m just not that ... creative.” -- Nonsense! If he can embroider, he’s creative -- or I should say, if he can embroider *well*, he’s creative. Poor Glorfindel keeps going AWOL. Hopefully Míriel and Martandur aren’t too worried at his absence. I loved the Maiar tossing Glorfindel back and forth like a beach ball (my mental picture, not perhaps what you had in mind). Well, now things are (somewhat) better, so I spose the Bad Guys will show up any minute now.... So to whom do you think Arafinwë wrote and why? -- As soon as you said that, my confidence evaporated! My reasoning was that there are a finite number of places the messenger can go in that direction that aren’t Alqualondë (assuming I understand the geography). I can’t think of any reason for Arafinwë to approach Ulmo about this (and it would surely be easier to deliver a message to his mansion in Valmar than go to the seashore and yell). So the destination is Tol Eressëa, home of Gilvagor and Haldir: two Aman-born Noldorin nobles of Arafinwë’s acquaintance who know Glorfindel, speak Quenya, know quite a bit about fighting, and might even have been to Vanyamar in the past. The Valar may not care what mayhem afflicts Glorfindel as long as he’s not outright killed, but Arafinwë has a different point of view. So, Alassiel having told him exactly where Glorfindel is staying, Arafinwë sends in a couple of ringers to keep an eye on his son. In the cold weather, they can even keep hoods over their dark Noldorin hair without looking too silly.... 8-) I’m completely wrong, aren’t I? Elwing’s tower might be in that direction too, but I can’t figure out a reason for Arafinwë to enlist Elwing and Eärendil -- whom Glorfindel will surely not meet for several yéni....

Kitty · 4 June 2007 · Chapter 98: Further Fallout

Though I suspected from the beginning Glorfindel’s time with Martandur is at least partly a bait for certain elves, I’m still not happy with the whole thing. Would it have been impossible to set this trap if Ingwë had told at least Glorfindel about it? I doubt it. And it would have been better for the relationship between Ingwë and Glorfindel. Not to mention Glorfindel's feelings. Quite a shock for Martandur to have Vairë not only show up at his workshop, but to give him a commission as well. And I loved that little side blow when she finally left (by way of the door) - it’s certainly a bit unusual to see the Valar use the door instead of simply fading away *grin* Vairë as archery teacher is another nice idea – quite the contrast particularly in this chapter, where she is otherwise behaving like an ordinary housewife. And to ask Ingwë and Valandur about the colour for new clothes for her husband *lol* I can imagine their faces! By the way, I vote for green instead of black! And I am glad Glorfindel finally got to work out his anger and fury, even if I felt a bit sorry for Manveru for having to take the beating instead of Ingwë. But it obviously helped Glorfindel to get over his frustration, at least for the moment. As for Aldarion, I truly love him. How nice that he at once called his friends together and joined Glorfindel! This normalcy will do Glorfindel some good, I think.

Beruthiels Cat · 4 June 2007 · Chapter 98: Further Fallout

And yet again...It's a wonder the Valar aren't tyotally worn out with trying to dislodge these folks from the set of their ways. Especially enjoyed the appearance by Vairë, she's such a perfect match for Namo! (Acting the ordinary housewife indeed!) and blandly telling the boys to play with Glorfindel...priceless! He needed to vent, and Ingwë needed to witness it. Lessons on many levels... Tell Vairë I said go with the dark green. ;) BC

Beruthiels Cat · 4 June 2007 · Chapter 97: Fallout

Fiondil, I stand amazed once again. The scope of your vision concerning these people is absolutely amazing, and the plot always rides like a runaway roller-coaster! (Highly amused at Miriel "tearing chunks" on Glorfindel's behalf, she's been working up a slow boil, lol) Very subtle levelling of the playing field, or am I mistaken? Once again the reborn are proving catalysts for change...and rattling everyone's "complacency". Great Chapter! BC

Calenlass · 4 June 2007 · Chapter 98: Further Fallout

What can I l say? I loved these two chapters and want to reread them over again. Fair writing be with you. Calenlass