Bodkin
· 4 November 2005
· Chapter 8: Of Light and Love
I love the way Makalaure is entranced by the music that he can make with the water - and his dream memories seem less painful. The touch of the Two Trees on his left hand is fascinating and certainly seems to me to cast some light on how he is able to release the Silmaril. The arrival of the Maia to feed him and offer him miruvor is a good way of helping the poor elf bind himself a little more securely to the world round him.
It's a shame that Linwe is still more than a little jealous of Makalaure - understandable, but helpful to neither - but I loved the way Oloriel played with him. A little more of that and he should relax a little!
I'm looking forward to more.
Author's reply
This was an enlightening chapter for me as well. It had never occurred to me until I saw it in the computer screen. That is one of the delights of writing about these marvelous beings called Elves.
Healing and forgiveness are sometimes more difficult than simply enduring the more familiar pain, as Maglor illustrates for us. Often the return journey is the more fraught with peril than the sallying forth.
Poor Linwë, with his self-imposed guilt over his son’s injury and then the intrusion of a marvelously gifted healer (and kinslyer) who has now befriended his son, would be enough to discompose the most easy-going of elves. Nearly losing him to the Halls was much more than what he can cope with at this time. Again Maglor was involved. Linwë is a loving, protective father pushed past his limits.
Alassiel and I are glad you enjoy this tale and the next chapter is coming soon, I hope.
Ellie
· 3 November 2005
· Chapter 8: Of Light and Love
Maglor's "harping" in the water and the blessing of his left hand by each of the two trees was exquisite. THe sensory descriptions and the desire of Maglor to fully immerse himself in the music was magnificent. I'm glad the curmungeon finally succombed to his wife's "playfulness" in the end. By teh way, that was a very interesting scene with the bird and tree.
This whole story is exceptionally beautiful, full of emotion and a strong appeal to all of the senses as well as to the spirit. Masterfully done and amazingly, tangibly, beautiful. Please update again soon.
Author's reply
Alassiel and I thank you, Ellie, for the lovely review. Truly it is a novel adventure to watch a story unfold and not know the details until you sit down to put them in written form.
Often I wondered ‘why’ Maglor was able at the last to release the Silmaril. Perhaps this might be the explanation; that he was already imbued with the Light of the Two Trees in some special way. His being one of the two greatest minstrels of Elvendom implies his extraordinary gifting and would likely be explored and expressed in ways uniquely his own. He also wanted desperately to beg forgiveness of the Valar so possibly he will be granted his wish.
The next chapter is in progress.
orlandochick05
· 4 October 2005
· Chapter 7: Journeying
Excellent, as usual. I love the way you talk about the elves and sleep and dreaming and all that. You make it seem really normal. And it's all true too!! Please update soon!
Author's reply
To the elves, too, it would be normal. It makes one realize just how truly different we are one from the other, Elves and Men. Tolkien imagined Elves as what Men could be, but were not since many had turned from the reverence of Ilúvatar (the One) and listened to and believed the lies of Morgoth (the Deceiver).
Thank you for your review, orlandochick.
Bodkin
· 4 October 2005
· Chapter 7: Journeying
I can understand why Linwe is angry, but it's not helping really. He is making things much harder for Veryandil. And Oloriel. He needs to talk to his wife. I'm glad he softens up at the end - but how can he not, when Makalaure has brought Veryandil back and managed to return his fea, which could so easily have been lost.
And it's just what Makalaure needs. As is Oloriel's clear sight into his pain. And knowing that Veryandil is so willing to risk himself will hold Makalaure to the present, despite his worries, I think.
The atmosphere of drifting mists and loss are just great. Wonderful stuff.
Author's reply
For a young scholar, his dream-healer wife and their very young child all born and raised in the Blessed Realm, the current situation is far from normal. Therefore they were not prepared for the entrance of a Kinslayer in their midst. Frequently we, as well, are not ready for the unexpected in our own lives and our reactions may dismay and startle us. Linwë has his own set of guilt-feelings to deal with before he can begin to have compassion for Maglor’s grief.
Veryandil may be one of the most loyal friends Maglor has ever had through his long life. Uncomplicated love, and yet with a child’s peculiar boldness may enter voluntarily opened doors that would resist all stronger force.
Alassiel again created a wonderful vision for us, an image of an event that cannot be contained in mere words.
Thank you for your review, Bodkin.
Aglarendis
· 3 October 2005
· Chapter 7: Journeying
Bravo! Another well-written chapter! Whew, I was afraid there for a bit. Makalaurë can be so stubborn, but thankfully, so can Vriandil. I am glad it was he who found his friend. I was afraid we wouldn't see Makalaurë at all in this chapter. And at least he's back in a physical form again.
Just one tiny suggestion. You might want to explain what you mean by osamwe. There are some who will not know what you mean when you talk about this.
Isn't it time to put chapter 8 up yet? (very big grin)
Author's reply
Veryandil is the non-censuring, uncompromising friend that Maglor needs to face and release his relentless guilt over a past he cannot change. As with most of us, flight and denial are two powerful forces to be reckoned with in the pursuit of healing of mind and spirit. Veryandil will not accept either on Maglor’s behalf.
Sorry about the unexplained words. We shall attempt to do better.
As for chapter 8… it is simmering nicely and should be up soon.
Thank you for your review, Aglarendis
lwarren
· 3 October 2005
· Chapter 7: Journeying
This was a chapter just full of emotions, ranging from Veryandil's desparate search for Makalaure, to his mother's fear, and his father's anger, and the resoluteness of Maglor in his effort to return the child to his hroa. I was fascinated with Veryandil's search - he's such an intelligent youngster. He thought to try and track the stag on the path of dreams, which he knew had been Nyello before; he even thought to try to bring him back by playing his harp. Then he loses himself in that awful misty nothingness - I was really concerned he would not find a way to return. But he's aided by one of Namo's own, and Makalaure cannot turn away...he must help his little friend if it's within his power to do so. I loved the use of light and color throughout - it's very effective, especially where Nyello is concerned. And the characters of Oloriel and Linwe are so well-drawn...I could feel their fear and even understand Linwe's anger, although I'm glad he finally put the rage aside and accepted Makalaure's help. The ending between the relieved nana and atto was so sweet and tender - they do need some quality time together to strengthen themselves through their own relationship. Wonderful, beautiful writing (both of you!)
linda
Author's reply
We are so pleased you are enjoying our tale. It is quite an adventure for us as well. The family of elves first appeared to Alassiel and we have both marveled at their involvement and impact on the life of the deeply hurting Maglor and his reaction to them. Elves by their very nature have a deep love for children and the open, freely-given gift of trust and love from Veryandil to Maglor has breached the fortress walls of his self-imposed exile from most others.
You are quite correct that Linwë and Oloriel need to together-time. This has likely been the most distressing time in their brief marriage, and certainly not because of a commonplace event experienced by elves living in Aman.
Thank you for your review, lwarren.
Nilmandra
· 27 September 2005
· Chapter 6: On A Dark Path
It takes a great deal of grace to enter into the dream of an elf killing a female and child, and have that elf take you in his grasp.... and not fear for your own child. I understand Linwe's fears of having his son near Maglor. Yet there is something in the innocence of a child's unconditional love that can help Maglor perhaps let go of his past and become a part of the present. His leaving his hroa was well done - an escape from a physical scene from which he could find no relief. His healing reamins in his hands.... and it takes much courage to be made whole.
Author's reply
The death of the mother and child was unintentional on Maglor’s part and grieved him accordingly. Oloriel reacted to the light hidden within Maglor which is some way bears on his temporary possession of the Silmaril. Linwë is still resentful of the much older elf stemming from his perceived failure to protect his son from harm; Maglor has not been endearing himself to the unhappy father. Veryandil is certainly a loving child, and reminds us that sometimes the most unlikely of answers is presented to our problems.
Others may forgive our past misdeeds, but until we can forgive ourselves as well the healing will be incomplete. When we dislike ourselves it is difficult to care for others.
Thank you for your review, Nilmandra.
Ellie
· 27 September 2005
· Chapter 6: On A Dark Path
This is so powerfula nd so excellent. The emotions and the sorrow and angst really make you want to help Maglor. I love the little boy in this and his mom who wants to be helpful and his jealous dad. Their reactions are very believable. Looking forward to more!
Author's reply
Alassiel and I are delighted that you appreciate the emotional struggles of all involved. Often we forget when in the midst of our own personal grief that it can seriously affect others, drawing some closer and repelling others.
Thank you for your review, Ellie.
Aglarendis
· 25 September 2005
· Chapter 6: On A Dark Path
How am I supposed to review and offer constructive criticism when I can find absolutely nothing to constructively criticize? I do believe, thanks to you, and in spite of his horrible deeds, that I have just found my third-favorite elf.
Your picture of this tormented, guilt-ridden, gentle and compassionate singer is remarkably poignant. You do not gloss over his past actions. You describe them so that we feel them in all their horrid reality. I was honestly afraid that Maglor would kill Oloriel before he awoke. You help us to imagine the disgust he feels with himself, and the certainty that he is despised. His horrible dreams and his fear for what he might do to others cause him to take the only action he feels he can take. I hope Maglor will allow himself to be helped!
This story is so much more than I thought it was going to be! Please continue this wonderful tale!
Author's reply
We thank you most sincerely for your accolades and kind words. Yes, Maglor is a difficult elf to write, but well worth the effort. He is a dangerous mixture of guilt laden past deeds and volatile moods untempered by the much needed association with his people. Dwelling alone for long periods of time may make one uncomfortable to re-enter the company of a larger society.
Maglor is desperately attempting to find relief from the vivid dreams now coming to the surface as a result of the awakening of his emotions, so long buried that he barely remembered that they existed. If not for Veryandil’s unwavering, trusting friendship he would have fled to the Halls of Mandos to forestall any actions of his in any way hurting those who had shown him such kindnesses.
The next chapter is well under way.
Thank you for your review, Aglarendis.
Aglarendis
· 24 September 2005
· Chapter 1: The Entreaty
Wow!!! What a story of repentance, regret, love, and forgiveness! I have been intreagued with Maglor's character ever since I read Nilmandra's The History Lesson. I'm happy to have found a story which, hopefully, gives poor Maglor some peace.
I sense, from what I read in The Silmarillion, that Maglor was more a follower than anything. That is what the pressure of family and friends can do if one does not stand firmly against it.
But Isn't Maglor just like the rest of us? We turn away from everything good, everything that makes god, common sense. We walk away from the one who created us and loves us, thinking we can make it with our own strength. Once away, in the middle of the battle, we realize it isn't going to be as fun or as easy as we were sure it would be. But pride keeps us going, hurting our kin, ignoring the one who could help us. And finally broken, some give up in despair, but others, like the Maglor of your story, return to the only one who has the power to help us. Maglor must still face the consequences of his actions, but he knows that some at least are ready to forgive.
I sincerely hope this turns into a very long story. I am eager to know what will happen to our lost friend.
Author's reply
Like you I found the tale of Maglor incredibly sad and felt that perhaps he had been coerced into following his father and brothers on the path of Doom. Alassiel and I had been investigating the possibilities of Maglor, finally wearied from millennia of loneliness and isolation, beseeching and being granted a hearing in the presence of Manwë.
Of course, Manwë wept upon learning of the Flight of the Noldor and had it been given him to rule and not merely guide, no doubt he would have forbidden them to leave. It seemed therefore logical that he might, at the least, allow Maglor to plead his case, though withholding his decision until a period of reflection and healing had occurred.
This was to be a stand alone chapter before Alassiel discovered that she ‘saw’ Maglor in Lórien and it has gone on from there as a joined telling.
We are both thrilled that your have seen so much of what we tried to bring forth concerning forgiveness, compassion, and redemption. First, of course, Maglor had to admit that he had done wrong, grievous wrong and humble himself to come to the one who can release him from the bonds of guilt and loneliness. And rightly observed, he must at some time face the consequences of his actions.
We are delighted that you find our efforts noteworthy.
Thank you for your review, Algarendis.
Galimeril
· 24 September 2005
· Chapter 6: On A Dark Path
That was beautiful, once again, a very thought provoking and inspiring chapter. I look forward to reading your next chapter!
Galimeril ;D
Author's reply
This was the chapter that pushed us into the PG-13 rating and we hope is has not been too uncomfortable for our readers. However, we thought it important to explain some of the horrific past events plaguing this poor elf and so incorporated one of his dark memories.
It also shows how others not even remotely connected with an occurrence can be profoundly affected by the deeds of another.
Thank you for your review, Galimeril.
Bodkin
· 24 September 2005
· Chapter 6: On A Dark Path
Poor Maglor is so haunted by the past. Veryandil is his best help - but you can't blame his parents for worrying about possible danger to the ellon from a very disturbed Nyello.
The care everyone is showing for Maglor is lovely - despite their concerns.
I can't wait for more.
Author's reply
Fortunately for Maglor, some elves are able to look deeper into a person than humans can, and their nature ‘goodness’ (and the fact that a great amount of time has passed) enables them to offer an understanding and compassion we should do well to emulate. The very young are perhaps the most open to trust and friendship freely and unconditionally given, and combined with a generous, tender heart, Veryandil is an unthreatening innocent who could very well lead Maglor onto the road of healing.
Thank you for your review, Bodkin.
orlandochick05
· 24 September 2005
· Chapter 6: On A Dark Path
Wow. That was really good. I used to obsess over Legolas, but I'm over that and now I obsess over Maglor. It's really nice to see such a well written, accurate story about him (I especially appreciate the use of the name Makalaure:). I love angsty Maglor, and I think you did it perfectly. Please update your story soon.
Author's reply
Maglor has had a rough time indeed. We are pleased that you are enjoying our little tale and try to keep it as close to what we know to be Tolkien’s thoughts on Maglor and his deeds, Manwë and his compassion for the Exiles, and blending them with some OC’s that belong to Alassiel. The wonderful family group is one of her many innovative contributions.
When this tale began it was the first chapter as an entire story, but has developed a path along which Alassiel and I shall travel to its conclusion.
Thank you for the review, orlandochick05
ponypetter
· 23 September 2005
· Chapter 2: Sojourn
This chapter seemed so sad and lonely. He's just faced those who were affected by his actions, but instead of being able to take comfort in being with those who love him, he must begin to heal alone. Though I guess he's not completely alone, but the companionship of Maia and Valar just seems much more remote than if he were able to be with his mother.
Author's reply
We must realize that Maglor has spent most of the long ages of his life alone and filled with regrets and guilt, and may not be comfortable around others. Just being in a place of peace is a huge change for him and to be surrounded by well-wishers when he has not come to terms with his self-incriminations would only add to his grief. He needs to face his past and not continue to hide.
Thank you for your review, ponypetter.
ponypetter
· 23 September 2005
· Chapter 1: The Entreaty
I like how those who come to beg pardon for him do not try to excuse or ignore the sins Maglor did commit. He must face his deeds, both good and bad.
Author's reply
Elves differ from mortals in many ways, but a wrong committed must still be acknowledged before forgiveness can be received. For centuries he has kept aloof from his fellow elves and therefore assumes that he is yet an outcast in their eyes. It is hard to accept that he could find compassion where he only expects shunning.
Thank you for your review, ponypetter.
Galimeril
· 22 September 2005
· Chapter 5: As Sunlight Through Clouds
This is such a beautiful piece. Your way with words is unmatched! You create such vivid beauty, that I have to wonder if I'm not dreaming. I hope you update soon, but not too soon, I know such mastery takes time! I eagerly look forward to the next chapter!
Galimeril ;D
Author's reply
Each review is an encouragement to the author (or in our case authors, Eruanneth_Luin and Alassiel). We both input, co-write and beta the chapters though usually one is the primary author, and we both wish to extend our thanks for your lovely comments. Our intent is to honor Tolkien and the nature of his elves as detailed in LaCE and other Tolkien entities.
The amount of fine tuning does indeed slow the process, but we do endeavor to bring forth an enjoyable and thoughtful tale.
Thank you for your review, Galimeril.
Bodkin
· 21 September 2005
· Chapter 5: As Sunlight Through Clouds
Veryandil is a star of a child - and I'm pretty sure he is doing more good to poor Maglor than anyone else could.
I hope Maglor recovers enough to be reunited with Elron - that might do him good, too. And I've always wanted to have a reunion between Maglor and his unfortunate mother!
I love the purity of the background and its - detachment is the best word I can come up with at the moment. Lovely
Author's reply
Veryandil is probably the only one who can help him as he trusts no one else. But then he has spent millennia alone and grieving. Not the most conducive to encouraging openness with others.
Do not give up on the reunions, but there may be some difficult times ahead. ƒ¼
¡Kthe purity of the background¡K that phrase move me almost to tears. Yes, that is how I believe Tolkien saw the natural state of elves freed from the need to defend hearth and home; it is what impresses me most about his vision of them at liberty to be themselves.
Thank you for the review, Bodkin.
Ellie
· 20 September 2005
· Chapter 5: As Sunlight Through Clouds
Cool story! Very beautiful and very touching. Keep the chapters coming!
Author's reply
We appreciate your comments, and are attempting to bring forth a tale believable and positive. Another chapter should be forthcoming soon.
Thank you for your review, Ellie
Ellie
· 20 September 2005
· Chapter 5: As Sunlight Through Clouds
Cool story
Vicki_Turner
· 11 September 2005
· Chapter 4: Remembering
I love this story! Maglor is one of my favorite sons of Feanor and I wished for a story like this so badly. The small family is so cute and I can't wait to see Maglor healed. Please update soon!
Author's reply
It is with a grateful heart that I read your review. Maglor is my favorite of the Fëanorion (sons of Fëanor), but like all that suffer from deep guilt and remorse the hardest part is to accept forgiveness and love as they feel unworthy and cannot in most instances forgive themselves.
This tale started as a single chapter and has grown far beyond my original thought. Alassiel and I have been astounded at the depth of detail we see concerning this young family of elves and the implications of their paths crossing that of an infamous legend of the long distant past.
Thank you for you review, Vicki_Turner
Bodkin
· 10 September 2005
· Chapter 4: Remembering
I can understand Linwe's jealousy of Maglor - and I am glad to see that he overcame it for the sake of his son and for the need he saw in Maglor.
It is a good name for him to wear - and the memory of his love for Elrond and Elros is probably the best thing for him to consider. Veryandil is probably the best healing that can be offered - and the acceptance of the child's parents will ease his heart.
I'm really enjoying the atmosphere you produce in this story, and I am hopeful that healing will come to Maglor.
Author's reply
Even for elves the special time of children can be a bit unsettling, and he is their first child and they are young as well. I also was glad that Linwë could release some of his resentment.
Nyello indeed suits Maglor, and though a child may trust without reservation, adults frequently have a more prolonged struggle.
That you enjoy the atmosphere is especially moving to us in that we are taking great care to be as true to Tolkien and his sub-creation as possible given that this time and place were unexplored territory. For elves who had never faced the trails and terrors of Middle-Earth life would have been far different, though the past is never far from them in the memory of those returned or re-housed.
Thank you for your review, Bodkin.
lwarren
· 9 September 2005
· Chapter 4: Remembering
This is such a good story! I haven't reviewed all of it, but you know I was so glad when Maglor decided to return to Valinor! He's such a volatile elf - so full of anger, bitterness, hurt...you wonder if he can ever really find any peace and healing at all. I really like the gradual emergence of Maglor - it's almost like he's a wild, untamed animal that must be carefully, gently coaxed into contact with the others. Veryandil is just the right one to do it, too. The memories Maglor has of caring for and growing to love Elrond and Elros are triggered by his care of Veryandil - thus the boy's part in Maglor's healing (I suppose!). Those were very touching memories, too - although I saw a brief flash of the angry, aggressive Maglor I've come to know! :-) After I thought a bit about Linwe's reaction to Maglor's care for his son, I finally understood how he would really be jealous of some strange elf taking his place in caring for his son so closely. And I suppose he felt some guilt that he had not been there when his son awoke in pain all alone. I really like this story, Eruanneth (Maglor deserves some respite from his pain and I like the way you're gradually leading him to it). Well done!
linda
Author's reply
Of the seven sons of Fëanor, Maglor is perhaps the only one who could seek and ask for pardon. He was reluctant to pursue the having them at the last, and cast it from him rather than perish with it.
The long real-seeming memory of elves would be a torment to one who had committed such atrocities. Yet I believe him to be utterly filled with remorse and desirous of forgiveness and reunion with his family.
Yes, I agree, Veryandil is a most delightful child and certainly the most logical to reach Maglor. With no preconceived distrust or revulsion, just the pure love and friendship of the very young, he provides a strong link with his fond memories of the twins, Elrond and Elros.
Dark deeds long suppressed are coming to the surface, and the anger and guilt associated with them bring pain as well as healing; infection must be released that recovery may begin.
Thank you for your review, lwarren.
Nerdanel
· 9 September 2005
· Chapter 3: The Fledgling
Dear Alassiel,
This is a delightful tale! I am sure that Maglor is the one that healed Veryandil and is playing the music (tuned to Treelight - of course!!) I can't wait until Linwë and Oloriel (what a wonderful name!) meet him. I look forward eagerly to the next part.
Blessings,
Nerdanel
Author's reply
You are an astute lady, Nerdanel. Alassiel astonished me with this charming family. There will be another chapter forthcoming.
Thank you for the review, Nerdanel.
Bodkin
· 21 August 2005
· Chapter 3: The Fledgling
Veryandil is a lovely child - and he seems to have just the right amount of bright-eyed enthusiasm to aid Maglor in his need for healing.
I like his parents, too. Linwe is a very caring father - and quite happy to nurture his son, and it's good to see Oloriel developing her understanding of her talent.
And the environment is itself a star of the story. It possesses a great feeling of peace.
Author's reply
From the moment Alassiel told me she ‘saw’ this precious child, I have loved him. Often the innocence of a child can tread on ground too uncertain for an adult.
His parents are themselves very young in great years and still quite innocent also. Alassiel really moved me with her introduction to these gentle elves.
Yes, I agree, she captured the essence of what Lorien must feel like; no wonder even the Valar would at times seek rest in those peaceful confines.
Thank you for the review, Bodkin.
Nilmandra
· 14 June 2005
· Chapter 2: Sojourn
I like all of the description - of sights and sounds and smells and the general feeling that Maglor experiences being in such a place. It is a wonder to think of how it must be, trying to maintain his hroa, too.
He does seem to need purpose, doesn't he? In healing, in helping - I suppose the key is allowing him to find purpose without somehow thinking he can earn his way to forgiveness and acceptance.
Author's reply
Alassiel has a wonderful gift of sub-sub-creating and constantly surprises me with her insights.
Maglor feels that there is no forgiveness available, but cannot refrain from protecting the young. His own mind and memories condemn him in his guilt.
Thank you for the review, Nilmandra.