Reviews (1,161)

MithLuin · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

Well, the pace has certainly picked up - the tension is palpable! Poor Ingwion - he never would have left a distraught Glorfindel alone, if he had been there. It is good that the Valar had the Maiar guards in place. Eagerly awaiting the next chapters, and thank you again for your prompt updates! (Even with your new story in the works....)

eiluj · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

Hullo. I've been reading this story for a few weeks now, and am seriously hooked! But I'm not so good at writing reviews, so I'll mostly be among the silent majority. Why has Glorfindel been kidnapped? Um -- elves silly enough to think they can blackmail the Valar into releasing their kin from Mandos? Does the fact that he was kidnapped there (rather than in Tirion) indicate the kidnappers were Vanyar? [That spy was hooded, cleverly allowing you to omit mentioning hair color.] Surely the Ainur could locate Glorfindel no matter how well the kidnappers hide him. So are the kidnappers betting the Valar won't interfere, or are they simply -- in the manner of neophyte criminals everywhere -- missing the obvious? And -- major issue here -- will Glorfindel's whining drive the kidnappers crazy enough to release him before Ingwion & co. find him? Why the significant pauses whenever Glorfindel mentions Eärendil? [Someone really should give that elf an astronomy update!] And how come Glorfindel doesn't have any family of his own? [Suspicious, highly suspicious!] And.... Again, thank you for a great story.

jwdisney · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

Oh my goodness, I have loved this series! And the suspense is incredible.. thank you for the hard work. I really enjoy this insight into what might have brought Glorfy from Balrog-killer to friend of Elrond. And the Valar are beautifully depicted. Thanks so much, and I hope the next installment comes soon! :) :)

Radbooks · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

Yikes! As mean of a cliff-hanger as I've ever seen, though I've written some myself, so I can't complain too loudly. Well, I can and I do hope you aren't too long before posting the next chapter. ;) I do wonder what the hidden fountain has to do with the whole situation, if anything. I really like Ingwion, he's grown on me (though I do miss Sador and Finrod, too!). I have an idea of who might have taken Glorfindel, but for what reason, I'm not totally sure and what purpose the Valar have in allowing all of this to happen I don't know. Except that they must want somehow to bring the elves back into harmony with each other... but it does seem dangerous! Looking forward to the next chapter!

Radbooks · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 47: The Will of the Valar

One thing I was glad that you mentioned in this chapter was how old Ingwion is, that he is older than Glorfindel, who is very old himself! :) I'd been thinking about that because he must be 9,000 years old or so... well, I suppose it depends when Ingwe had kids. :) I liked the talk with Ulmo and the Vala's description of what had happened to Aman... it was the truth, though I'd never seen it quite that way before. What Melkor did to that land and then to all of Arda was indeed 'rape' and no one was left unscathed. I'm anxious to see why the Vanyar have not been released... it will be an eye-opening experience for everyone, I'm sure. :) Oh, I've also really enjoyed the descriptions of the various palaces and courtyards of the Valar... they sound beautiful!

Calenlass Greenleaf · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

Whatever happened to Glorfindel?? I do hope he's all right. Sorry I wasn't able to review for so long...I, ah, got a little lazy. *blush*

Ellie · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

You are mean leaving the chapter off where you did. What an incredible mystery and a truly irate Ingwion. This story is so complicated and makes me feel ... well..like an elf trying to understand with my limited comprehension what the Valar intend in events which take place. Loving this story and can't wait to see Ingwion get to earn his braids. You know, you can update before next weekend an be merciful to your readers...hint hint wink wink nudge nudge

Ellie · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 47: The Will of the Valar

This was a nice peaceful restful chapter compared to what came before it and to what will come after it. I liked the visit with Ulmo. He such a cool Vala.

Rhyselle · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 47: The Will of the Valar

I liked Glorfindel hoping that he wouldn't need to walk the spiral again to leave Lord Namo's house! :) And I truly like Ingwion more and more each time I encounter him in this tale. He really has redeemed himself from the rude comments he originally made--too bad more people aren't like him! One of my favorite exchanges between the characaters was: [quote] "No one will force you to go there, child. Indeed, I think I can safely say that Lord Námo would strongly counsel against it in your present state." The Maia suddenly smiled and a small chuckle escaped his lips. "What?" Glorfindel asked, struggling not to smile in turn, for the sound of the Maia’s laughter was infectious. "Only that when my Lord Námo said as much to me earlier he sighed and opined that you would consider such advice as an open invitation to do just the opposite." Now Ingwion sniggered and Glorfindel laughed outright. "And my Lord Námo would be correct, but not, I think, today. Today, I just want to enjoy myself." [end quote] It was such a great statement of character of all three involved in the conversation: the Maia, Lord Namo and Glorfindel. I loved the description of Ulmo's home--the stepping stones made of turtle shells made me smile--such a whimsical way of solving the issue of crossing from gate to mansion! Ulmo's blunt and straightforward description of Aman was a bit of a shock after the way I've gotten used to how the other Valar speak. We keep hearing of Endore being the marred by Morgoth, but in truth ALL of Arda is marred, including Aman, even though it obviously appears to have been less damaged than Middle-earth. But just because it isn't visible, doesn't mean the damage was not done. I am getting sooooo curious about why the Vanyar are not being released from Mandos. Almost as much as Glorfindel, I think! Ulmo's comment about nothing being as it seems made me wonder if, in fact, the Vanyar are as innocent as they profess to be. They may not have revolted against the Valar like the Noldor di in physical disobedience to the decree to not leave Valinor, but there are other types of rebellion than physical disobedience. Also, in some ways, the idea of the Noldor being forgiven and being allowed back into Valinor, reminds me of the parable of the ninety and nine sheep and the single lost one. The sheep who stayed with the flock probably never understood why the lost one was searched for and brought safely home either. *grin* Hmmm. Two hundred warrior Maiar... Their estimation of Glorfindel's strength would likely surprise him! Last time they thought twenty would be enough...*g* Poor Glorfi... Even after all he's learned so far, he still wants to go back... to serve his King... There is a line in THE PRINCESS BRIDE that sort of fits him... "You have an over-developed sense of responsibility." Hopefully it won't get him into trouble one day... BTW, I think you must have meant "Frightened people oft are a danger..." rather than "Frighten people..." Ulmo ordering him to have a good time ended the chapter on a giggle I couldn't suppress. :) Wow, I got more out of this than I expected... at first glance it seemed more of a transition chapter than an action chapter, but I've found that even your transition chapters have a lot in them to make the reader think. Good job!

Nikara · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

Yikes! That's an awful place to leave off. I really need to re-read the Silmarillion. I've read it once, but now I would read it with more understanding. Great two chapters, I really enjoy watching Glorfindel explore his surroundings. The scene of him at the ring of doom was haunting.

Kitty · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

Very brave of Glorfindel to revisit the Ring of Doom. I’m not sure that was the best of ideas, though, even if he seemed to be not too much afflicted. But why did he go there again the next day? And what exactly happened?? I’m not sure what to think at the moment. The Valar seem to be quite unaffected by the whole affair, and I am very sorry for Ingwion and the others, who have to feel abandoned in this crisis. You left us with a nasty cliffhanger, and I hope you can update soon – I’m so worried about Glorfindel!

Kitty · 4 March 2007 · Chapter 47: The Will of the Valar

Two hundred warrior Maiar only to stop Glorfindel’s fëa? That seems a bit excessive, but I understand they don’t want to take any more risks. And they seem to have a lot of respect for him. This is a difficult topic; I can see why the elves of Valinor resent it that just the Noldor are the first to be reborn. But it’s not fair to blame the Reborn themselves for it, either. And they may have rebelled against the Valar, but they paid heavily for it. And I somehow doubt the elves who remained in Valinor did never do anything wrong, either. Well, I fear there is no easy solution for the dilemma.

Bodkin · 2 March 2007 · Chapter 46: A Belated Begetting Day

Forgetting that little incident is probably best for both Glorfindel and Finrod. I like the begetting day party - and it made a great reason to give Glorfindel the ring. And for Olorin to turn up with his gift. I hope they work! And the fourteen armed Maiar can act as back up!

Bodkin · 2 March 2007 · Chapter 45: Slipping the Leash

"You must be a lot of fun at parties." Indeed! And Glorfindel gets to play with the star, too. Although for a rather more scary reason. I like the thought that home to Glorfindel means people rather than a place. His trip to Gondolin has shown him that a place is only a place.

Bodkin · 2 March 2007 · Chapter 44: The Spiral Maze

There's always rather more than expected in encountering the Valar - even if it's a maze in the entrance hall. I'm not surprised Glorfindel was scared!

Rhyselle · 1 March 2007 · Chapter 5: Endings and Beginnings

This chapter and the last totally captured my heart. Glorfindel's relationship with the twins reaches something inside and it doesn't matter how many times I read over these chapters, it makes me feel all warm and good inside to watch their interaction and the love that developes between the three of them. When the time comes for parting, even though it is needful, it hurts. The lesson was necessary for Glorfindel to learn, just as it is for us all to learn. Not easy, but necessary. I loved how he had grown to the point that he was able to put his own desires to keep Elured and Elurin close to him behind their needs to grow up to be what Eru had planned for them. I thought it interesting that, unlike when Finrod left, this time, he didn't ask if he would see them again. I like to interpret this as him knowing that one day he will, even if it isn't a knowledge that he can articulate at this time. This sequence is what inspired a plot bunny to bite me today--Glorfi in Rivendell, remembering coming to accept his separation from Elured and Elurin emotionally. Like I said above, these two chapters really got to me! His fear at leaving the comfort of the Mardi Envinyato to return to life was deftly handled, both in the writing, and in how Lord Namo comforted him and reassured him. :) I like it very much that Olorin asked to be Glorfindel's attendant for his re-embodiement. I do wonder, though, how much of this part of Olorin's life as a Maia Gandalf remembers in Middle-earth? :) Hmmm. Oh dear, not another plot bunny! I found the mental image of Olorin carrying Glorfindel through the tapestry of his death to be very intriguing. There's all sorts of symbolism one could attribute to that single action--the need to accept the death in order to move beyond it into life renewed is one of the strongest in my mind. This overall story is so very rich in emotion and character development, it can't help but inspire other what if's in my mind. :) And it just keeps getting better as it goes along.

Radbooks · 1 March 2007 · Chapter 46: A Belated Begetting Day

Well, I couldn't wait any longer, I finally had to read this and once I started I couldn't put it down! In fact, I read it twice. :) If I really get into a story I read it so fast that I end up skipping over a lot of the details - like your wonderful descriptions of clothing and such - so that I can see what's going to happen. But then if I really enjoy the story, I'll read it again slowly and take in the nuances and details that I missed the first time. :) It's so very, very good that I don't know where to start. Glorfindel is my favorite elf character and so besides the fact that I've never seen any other stories about Namo and the other Valar, that is something that drew me to this story and I wasn't disappointed. It breaks my heart to see him going through the things he has to go through... sometimes it's two steps forward and one step back for him. I want to slap some of the 'Once-born' for treating him and Finrod and Sador how they do. But, I know that the Valar have a plan... seemingly. :) I liked how both Glorfindel and Sador (probably Sador especially - he really touches my heart.) were so lovingly welcomed into the house of Arafinwe. It was needed for all of them. I love Olorin and all of the Maiar. You really write Olorin much as I would imagine he would be in that state, unencumbered by the flesh as he was when he was in Middle-earth. The rest of the Maiar are shown as loving servants of their lords and ladies and just... I don't know how else to say it but, cool. *grin* Then, the Valar. Well, lets go with Namo first. He's just written so well... you really keep him in character. He is loving and kind and yet can inspire... fear. But it's almost a fear that's more like awe... which is what I think you want. Glorfindel is only a child and so is fearful... but I think he is learning a bit as he grows that he shouldn't quite fear Namo (or the other Valar) that what is done is out of love. To help him to grow into who he can become. I'm not phrasing this right I know, but it's more like the fearful awe we as people have for God maybe? Anyway, I do enjoy the interplay between Namo and Glorfindel and then between Namo and the other Valar. Oh, that one scene between Namo and Manwe after Namo asked the girl to forgive him... that was so moving. Scary that Namo had done something that was bad enough to warrant that sort of scene... it seemed that way to me at the time (I was surprised he was putting the girl through that!!)... but good to know that there could be forgiveness between them, too. Well, I wanted to let you know how much I've enjoyed this story and I'm eagerly waiting for the next updates!

Rhyselle · 28 February 2007 · Chapter 4: Progress Reports

I wonder what makes the difference between those elves who come to the Mardi Envinyato and those who are sent to the spirit prison to be alone until Arda's Renewal. Is it a moral distinction? Obviously it pains Namo that there even needs to be such a place in his Halls. Your introduction of the twins into Glorfindel's life struck a chord in me. The foreshadowing of the years an age or more in the future where he would be instrumental in the rearing up of Elrond's twin boys is part of it, but also I can see that these children will immediately appeal to Glorfindel's inner need to be needed and to protect and take care of other people. Finrod's fears when he is summoned to meet with Namo were perfectly understandable. Although in the body of an adult, he's still not "grown up" and I remember my worry when someone in authority summoned me to speak with them when I was a 13 year old! To have a Vala summon you must be so much worse. It occurs to me that the Valar spend a considerable amount of time telling people with whom they interact to not be afraid! The Maiar too, I'd think. Just as in the instances in the Bible where angels appear unto men, "Fear not" seems to be the standard opening communication with the Valar. :) The image of Finrod cuddling with his stuffed animal is just adorable. I like how you didn't specify what type of animal it was... it allows me to envision him snuggling with a fuzzy stuffed Hedgehog, while others might envision a cat or a bear or whatever else their favorite toy was.

Rhyselle · 28 February 2007 · Chapter 3: Return to Innocence

I find the thought that even when he doesn't remember why, Glorfi's subconscious is still trying to get back to Gondolin interesting. I like the mental image of him looking over his shoulder at the Maia uncertainly, and her pushing him forward. I did that with my little ones when we visited new playgrounds when they were small. And I likely had the same kind of smile on my face as I said "Go play" to my children. :) I like the little group of friends that Finrod introduces him to. I particularly like Glorfindel's reaction to Finduilas! LOL! That she LET him catch her was cute. And when they've worn themselves out, and fallen asleep, the idea that they need to be detangled one from another made me laugh! I've been in that position before of pulling my kids from the "puppy pile" and carrying them off to their own beds. I found it interesting that even though Glorfindel came into the hall to play after the others had obviously been there for at least some time before his arrival, that he didn't require as much sleep as they did. He is either strengthening faster than the others, or he's just stubborn and wants to be awake with his best friend and MAKES himself wake up early. *grin* The farewell from Finrod was sad and sweet. But we know that Lord Namo never makes a promise that is not kept, so that must have been reassuring to Glorfindel to be told he would see Finrod once more. I know that there are days that I'd love to have Lord Namo stroking my hair and singing me to sleep! :)

Rhyselle · 28 February 2007 · Chapter 2: Máhanaxar

I got the impression that Namo really didn't want Glorfindel to face Judgment quite yet, but, as always, he obeys the Elder King. I did smile at the bit about "You can open your eyes now." Nothing gets past the Lord of Mandos! :) The mental images that his judgment and cleansing bring forth in my mind make me wish I were a better artist. I could never do the scene justice. I had such sympathy for Glorfindel as he was made to remember everything. There certainly are things in my memories of my life that I prefer not to recognize that I've done, things of which I am ashamed. Being forced to see oneself for what one truly is and not what one thinks one to be is incredibly traumatic... but so necessary to begin again. I can picture our Balrog Slayer, cradled in Este's arms, and being raised up by Namo when it was all over to stand before Manwe. The description of Manwe channeling the pure love of Eru Iluvatar was, I think the thing I loved best in this chapter. It's not something that I can easily articulate, so I'll just leave it at that... It's my favorite part.

Rhyselle · 28 February 2007 · Chapter 1: Here At the End of All Things

I've decided to go through each chapter again and tell you my feelings and thoughts on the ones I haven't reviewed before, so here goes! The thing that grabbed me first about this was Glorfindel's despair even before he was dead at having failed his charge to see Idril and Earendil to safety. He plea to go back to fulfil what he saw as his duty was heartbreaking. It's obvious that he has built his life around fulfilling his oaths and obligations, and the mental pain--the damage to his fea from what he sees as his failure is as bad, I think as what his body felt as the Balrog took him into death with it. The next thing that got me was his reaction to hearing and recognizing Namo's voice. I'd never before reading this story considered whether or not the people who followed Turgon and the other leaders to Middle Earth were doing it of their own free will. Someone with a lesser sense of duty and obligation would have turned back upon hearing the Doom of Mandos, even though their lord had forbidden it, but Glorfindel has already been shown to be the type of person that duty will come before personal preference. I love your interpretation of Namo the Consoler. In canon, we certainly don't see that aspect of him, but even as he told Glorfindel that his duty to Turgon's house was over with, he soothed and comforted him into healing sleep... an act of love that I'm sure that Glorfindel would not have expected. The parental feel of Namo's words and actions through this sequence gave me a feeling of comfort reassurance, even as they were meant to do for Glorfindel. After an introduction like this, there was no way I was not going to click the next chapter link!

Nikara · 26 February 2007 · Chapter 46: A Belated Begetting Day

I've just enjoyed a lovely evening reading through this story. I love any good stories about Glorfindel, and the way that you are able to utilise the Silmarillion is excellent. I think my favorite line thus far is in the previous chapter, where the Valar intend to study Glorfindel's DNA for any strange mutations. It made the scientist in my giggle.

Ellie · 25 February 2007 · Chapter 46: A Belated Begetting Day

These last three chapters were very interesting. I like the idea of slipping in and out of fea as a defense mechanism and the playful interaction between the Valar themselves. The begetting day celebration was wonderful as were the gifts. You have painted such an amazing picture of the Valar. Well done!

vampfan30 · 25 February 2007 · Chapter 46: A Belated Begetting Day

Oh, how I love that you post three or four at a time! these few chapters are amazing & a little confusing, but, I'll survive. the lines about the spiral cutting down on repeat visitors & the retort about him being a lot of fun at parties was hilarious. the humor that slips in from time to time breaks up the tension quite well. can't wait for more!

Kitty · 25 February 2007 · Chapter 46: A Belated Begetting Day

Námo’s pet Balrog-slayer? *lol* Truly, I love the tone of conversation among the Valar! At first I shared Glorfindel’s doubts about the surprise, but now I am touched. All the Valar and Maiar celebrating Glorfindel’s begetting day was truly sweet. And I think he needed this positive experience after all the excitement. I’m glad you posted three chapters in one day, so we were not left with any cliffhangers but with a nice end.