Reviews (1,161)

hawkeye · 20 September 2014 · Chapter 13: iAndondi Entulessëo

They're finally together again! I think I was cheering when I read this. Unfortunately it looks like there are still some problem people in Arafinwë's court, but hopefully between Glorfindel, Finrod and Sador they can sort that out. If not, I'll straighten them out for him ;) And Sador. I'm so happy he's still here, and I think Arafinwë was wonderful taking him into the family. I know it's not the same, but seeing as he's lost his other two sons maybe he can have two others in the mean time? Perhaps I'm oversimplifying things. I can't believe Amarië still hasn't figured things out. *sigh* I was hoping after all this time maybe she had learned something. She's always struck me as a wonderful and amazingly loyal person, but apparently she's got some growing to do in some areas. Not to say that we all don't but... It was fun to see Námo again. I guess now that everyone is released we might not see as much of him, which is sad. Hopefully he comes around more too. Thank you for making my day. Given the trouble those two were, having them released probably made Námo's day too, although I get the impression he's rather fond of both of them ;)

hawkeye · 16 September 2014 · Chapter 12: Lessons in Compassion

Glorfindel's questions about oaths are really thought provoking. I rather think that he is going to come to a different conclusion than the one presented here (that the oaths died with his death). I'm thinking ahead to Elrond when I say this, but it's just speculation on my part ;) I loved the interactions between Glorfindel and Sador, and I really hope that Sador stays in the picture. I'm getting really attached to him and it seems Glorfindel is too :) The image of Glorfindel as a potter made me laugh too, though I can actually see him doing something artistic. He's a warrior, yes, but there's more to him than that. Sador's asking though was sweet. It is a terrifying thing to stand on the brink of the unknown, and as social beings, I don't think we're necessarily meant to face them alone. All of this to say, I hope poor Sador doesn't end up alone with no family, and I don't think Glorfindel will let that happen if he can help it. It's troubling, and I remember this from Finderato Diaries, that there were some issues with the treatment of the Reborn. Sador's reflection is even more troubling for me. The Sindar didn't do anything wrong, but they are looked down on by everyone, more so than the Noldor. I know Tolkien described the elves as "good people," but they have their faults too. I think Varda's suggestion has merit ;) Glorfindel's need to forgive himself for dying was eye opening, and I loved that it was Sador who pointed out to him what he needed to know. He has so much to offer, and I'm glad he's finally starting to see that. Sador's observation that Glorfindel knows how to love fits well here too. He has, in a sense, shown the ultimate love and compassion when he gave his life for those special to him. Thanks for writing, Fiondil. Your stories are amazing :)

hawkeye · 16 September 2014 · Chapter 11: Artelemnar and Sador

It's surprising, but I can see why Glorfindel was disappointed in Lórien. But that also made me wonder if other reborn don't feel the same way too. Like you said, it is a lovely, wonderful place, but it is a place of healing and learning. Glorfindel strikes me as a bit of a restless soul, a person who acts. Lórien doesn't really strike me as a place for action so much as it is a place of meditation and renewing. Glorfindel's friendship with Sador was beautiful, and I'm already getting attached to the Sinda. I really like how you are bringing in some Sindar elves into the story (I have a bit of a soft spot for them ;). It's a sign of Glorfindel's character, I think, that he immediately takes Sador under his wing, not only as a friend but also as a protector. The role of protector seems to come naturally to the Balrog-slayer. For all his emotional immaturity, I really felt like Glorfindel acted very maturely in this chapter, especially in the way his defends and comforts his friend. He reminded me a bit of a mother hen in this chapter. I was also really impressed by his concern for Artelemnar, and even his grief over Artelemnar's consuming guilt. Hopefully Artelemnar will become a nicer elf in the future, though if Lord Námo can't scare the meanness out of someone I'm not sure who can. I have every confidence in Lord Irmo though. And Olórin! I just about cheered when he showed up again. I'm glad he was there when he was, and Glorfindel wasn't left alone to deal with Artelemnar. Though, it is interesting how he can be kind and scary at the same time. I guess the lesson is, never underestimate a Maia. Thank you for a fun chapter :) I'm looking forward to reading more :D

hawkeye · 16 September 2014 · Chapter 10: Tea with the Fëanturi

So, if nothing else, Glorfindel's temper is in tact. Poor dear. At least the Valar aren't angry with him. I really liked Námo's explanation about how the Valar's joy stems from a delight in Eru's creation. If only we all could take such delight in creation, I think so many problems would not be the problems that they are. I am curious about a couple of things though. In the beginning of the chapter, is Námo tells Glorfindel to come, is he actually making him come? Or is Glorfindel's respect for the valar actually making him come, even though he wants to go back to the maze? I thought it was interesting that Námo never took his eyes off Glorfindel. If that's not intimidating, I'm not sure what is ;) My other question is, in your stories, are Irmo and Námo twins in Atar's thought? The similarities in their appearance makes me wonder. Although, they seem to be able to change their appearance so perhaps they just like looking that way. As silly as this may sound, I loved the image of Námo as Consoler. I think it's significant the Valar don't continue to bring up the past, but only remind him that all debts have been paid when Glorfindel brings it up. It actually reminded me of a part of the Psalms that says as far away as the east is from the west, so far have transgressions been removed. I think that the Valar are modeling this for Glorfindel here in this chapter. He has been forgiven, and Námo is present as consoler, now Glorfindel has to accept that for himself. In any case, I've rambled enough. Thank you for another lovely chapter :)

hawkeye · 13 September 2014 · Chapter 9: In the Maze

Poor Glorfindel. I think the Valar enjoy their little surprises, and hopefully Glorfindel won't hold it against them. Having been in a large maze a couple of times before, I can sympathize with him. Decisions are often confusing. I thought it interesting that Glorfindel wasn't even able to see the sun during his wandering. He really had only himself to rely on, that and faith that he would eventually find the right path, and perhaps faith that he wouldn't be abandoned there forever. It's telling, I think, that even at his most despairing, there is something that drives him not to give up. It actually reminded me of my grandfather saying, "it's okay to fail, it's not okay to quit." I don't think Glorfindel has ever been a quitter, no matter what the odds against him were :) I loved the ending, and now I'm really curious what Irmo lost to his brother. Lord Námo is one I'd be afraid of losing to *checks to make sure Námo isn't standing there* Thanks for another fun chapter! I can't wait to see what is in store for our dear Balrog-slayer next :)

hawkeye · 11 September 2014 · Chapter 8: Leaving Mandos

"The last time Glorfindel had seen Lord Manwë had been within the circle of the Máhanaxar and he had not been smiling then." I shivered reading that. As someone who succumbs to embarrassment easily, I'm not sure if I'd ever be able to face any of the Valar after that with equanimity. Glorfindel seems to pull it together well though. In that sense, he really is growing, which is wonderful and sad at the same time. It did seem a little sad that he didn't get to say goodbye to Olórin before he left, though the horse probably made up for that (sorry Olórin?) Hmm, I do wonder though if we might be seeing this horse later? I really hope so :D So Manwë came to see Glorfindel. Interesting how he keeps checking in. I'm guessing this isn't usual for all reborn, but perhaps it is. The Valar really seem to enjoy the elves, so it stands to reason that they would want to be involved where they could, or at least watching. Sometimes I find it quite hard to predict with Tolkien when the Valar will actually show up and when they will let things play out. Regardless I really like how you portrayed Manwë's joy. I think that, more than many things, is a reflection of Ilúvatar who takes pleasure in creation and the Children. Thanks for another lovely chapter. Hope you are enjoying your summer!

hawkeye · 8 September 2014 · Chapter 7: Trouble in Paradise

Glorfindel dear, you really do need to learn to keep your clothes on. You'll get more hugs if you do ;) Glorfindel really did need lots of hugs in this chapter. He is definitely maturing, and it's wonderful to see him starting to take charge of his new life. He's never struck me as being the passive sort *chuckles* I can so relate to the gardening woes, as I'm not much of a gardener either. I would love to garden, but I fear Yavanna isn't too pleased with my efforts. I really enjoyed Yavanna in this chapter. She comes across as both loving of her creations and the creations of others. In some ways, nurture of people is a lot like nurture of plants and I loved seeing how adept she is at both. It was a good reminder that she can still be scary when she wants to be though. Your story is really making me rethink my original ideas of the Valar, and this is a great example. They are not only interesting characters in their own right, they are actually characters that I want to know more about. Prior to finding your stories, I wasn't terribly interested in them and now you've got me wanting to write them too. And referring to your earlier comment, I agree about listening to trees. One of the things that fascinates me about elves is their ability to communicate with living things. It was so easy for Glorfindel to connect with the maple tree. But I agree, I think there is a life in everything that can still be heard if one takes the time. Anyway, I'm rambling. Thank you for an entertaining read. Hopefully Glorfindel learns to stay dressed. I pity the ellith otherwise :)

hawkeye · 7 September 2014 · Chapter 6: Awakening

He's finally back! You did a really good job of describing what it must feel like to be reborn. It's like growing up without actually having to get bigger while doing it. I did feel for Glorfindel quite often in this chapter, especially when his memories didn't keep pace with his physical coordination. Olórin was wonderful too. His patience and non judgmental ways will go a long way to helping his charges get back on their feet (literally) again. Some of these traits are probably natural to him, but I also wonder how much of this he learned from Nienna. I also like how you have him moving around. While technically he's Lord Manwë's maia, we see him here working with Lord Námo. In fact, he's been there even before Glorfindel was reborn. This adds a lot to his character, I think, and really to the character of other maiar as well. As eternal beings, it makes sense that they are able to, and actually do do, many things. Glorfindel's reaction to the tree was priceless. He reminded me of Celeborn here, which makes me wonder what all he learned from his time in Middle Earth. Tree communing is something I usually associate with Sindar elves. Seeing stars for the first time (again) would be an awe inspiring experience. Fortunately he has a good maia to take care of him ;) Anyway, thank you for another fun chapter, Fiondil!

hawkeye · 4 September 2014 · Chapter 5: Endings and Beginnings

So that is what Glorfindel needed to learn. It makes a lot of sense, given how protective he is. Still, I think that is a hard lessons for a lot of us as well. I also found it interesting how Glorfindel doesn't seem to want to return to life. Others, Námo and Olórin, are rejoicing that he is finally healed and can fulfill the purpose for which Eru created him. But to Glorfindel, it's a big leap into the unknown. He's the only one not rejoicing, it seems. I love Námo's observation that Glorfindel was created for Life, not Death. Death, for one who was ultimately created to be eternal, becomes that much more sad. But in the end, life and love triumph. Anyway, speaking of Námo, he's rapidly becoming one of my favorite Valar. I hold you responsible for this ;) Thank you for an exciting chapter. I'm looking forward to see where Glorfindel ends up next :)

hawkeye · 3 September 2014 · Chapter 4: Progress Reports

Sometimes I think Námo enjoys being scary. But sometimes it seems like he's sad that people are so afraid of him too. Though really, he's got himself to blame for scaring the poor elves so. *exasperation* Perhaps Vairë is the one I should be feeling sorry for :P Glorfindel is quite the mother hen. I've often wondered what happened to Eluréd and Elurín. Hopefully they can find peace now. It's interesting that Finrod is so intimidated when meeting Námo in this chapter. In some ways, elves who have been in Mandos seem to have a different view of him. But here, he seems as nervous as anyone, even not reborn, would be. It will be interesting to see what happens when Glorfindel really is released. Finrod has had a while to mature, so there might be a bit of a mother hen role reversal where these two are concerned :P At any rate, another wonderful chapter. Thanks for writing!

hawkeye · 2 September 2014 · Chapter 3: Return to Innocence

So this is what Glorfindel and Finrod were doing while they were in Mandos, though I have a feeling that this isn't all they were up to. If Glorfindel and Erestor can wreak so much havoc later with their "competitions," I can't imagine what chaos Finrod and Glorfindel created for Lord Námo XD I suppose the real question is, who instigated more of the adventures? *laughs* For some reason, I really liked that Finrod was the one to initiate here. So often I see Glorfindel as taking care of other people, it was nice to see someone look out for him for a change. Then again, I just love Finrod so I might be biased. The poor Maiar trying to sort out the fëar. I wonder how difficult that is. They seem to be a patient lot though ;) Glorfindel's "flashbacks" are interesting. It seems like most forget their lives while in Mandos, but apparently at least some do not. Elenwë didn't seem to remember Glorfindel. In some ways, the memories almost seem like a kind of "muscle memory." A part of their fëar remember, but not completely. They react almost reflexively. I felt really sad at the end of the chapter. A part of me still wants to shout "Arafinwë can wait." Is that selfish? :P I know he's waited thousands of years, but still... *sigh* At any rate, I'm back now and enjoying your wonderful stories. Thanks Fiondil, for a lovely read!

Amony · 9 August 2014 · Chapter 36: A Lesson In Forgiveness

why didn't Manwe release Namo from his embrace? and why did Namo do what he did from the beginning?

Amony · 8 August 2014 · Chapter 25: Feasts and Follies

perhaps if you are going to continue tales from vaire's loom, you can write the story about the meeting between Lord Namo and Finrod and Glorfy :D :D :D :D ........ and the priceless look on their faces :D :D

Amony · 7 August 2014 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

I'm sorry but i cannot understand why did Glorfindel linger in front of Lord Namo's mansion and throne, and his earlier joke about " You must be a lot of fun at parties"

hawkeye · 5 August 2014 · Chapter 2: Máhanaxar

Of everything I've read so far, this completely rewrote my notions of judgement. "For love, not hate, was the motivating factor in all that the Valar did there." I particularly loved this paragraph, and that part in particular is, for me, was eye opening. I get the impression that judgement, while painful, is really healing. I also thought it was interesting that while motivated by love, you describe the Valar in the beginning as implacable. It almost seems like they are setting themselves up, or to use another expression, are setting themselves 'like a flint' to see this done. It's almost as if this is a part of their job they don't thoroughly enjoy. Perhaps I'm reading more into it than is intended. Another thing that stood out to me was that they did not leave Glorfindel to suffer alone, and that Estë stayed with him through most of it. Despite the fact that this is judgement, that Glorfindel did do wrong, yet he still is not forsaken, nor is he alone. This I think, more than anything, is a testament to the goodness of the Valar. I thought it was significant that Manwë was a channel Ilúvatar's light. A lot of what the Valar do seem to be manifestations of Ilúvatar working through them. The sifting of Glorfindel's memories was interesting. In terms of judgement, I had more the picture of a trial in my mind, but I like this idea much better. I am curious though, does this mean that he's being "judged" by all the Valar instead of just Námo? In some ways I think that would be more terrifying. I enjoyed this chapter a lot. It was thought provoking and comforting to see how well Glorfindel was treated. Thanks for sharing :)

hawkeye · 5 August 2014 · Chapter 1: Here At the End of All Things

Hi Fiondil :) Glorfindel's sense of duty has always amazed me. Even after dying, he seems more concerned about those in his care and the trust placed in him than in anything else. At least until Lord Námo scared him, and even then he still wants to go back for them. Interesting perspective on "arriving" in the Halls of Mandos. Námo doesn't behave as much like the "judge" here as Glorfindel was expecting, nor does he seem particularly dreadful or even angry. The doom of the Valar was a bit creepy though.

Mongwen · 24 July 2014 · Chapter 11: Artelemnar and Sador

So every time I re-read these stories of yours I get odd questions popping into my head at odd times. For instance, I find myself wanting to know how Artelemnar was lessoned. What brought him to a point where he could receive the correction intended? If I come up with any more possible plot bunnies or odd questions I'll pass them along -- unless, that is, you tell me to go away.

Anonymous · 23 July 2014 · Chapter 58: Friends in High Places

I really like your stories and I've been wondering if you have ever read Diane Duane's wizard books. You might find her idea of wizardry and the Powers that run the universe interesting. Timeheart as well. I hope you continue to enjoy writing thought-provoking stories. And thanks for doing the research. I adore well researched stories.

Eruherdiriel · 2 June 2014 · Chapter 142: Songs of Power and Glory

What a cliffy! I would be very angry if the next book were not already posted. I enjoyed this story a lot. Is Vorondil the same one that ends up in Wiseman, or is it his uncle who goes?

diana · 12 March 2014 · Chapter 5: Endings and Beginnings

Hullo Fiondil! I'm really enjoying your Glorfindel stories. I always did have a crush on him for some reason. I can see he'd make an excellent "uncle" to some "future twins" coming up in his life later. I really think Tolkien would be delighted with your stories, and I agree with other reviewers that you capture the style of his stories (but with better writing---gasp!!! I hope that's not sacrilegious to say). I also love love love how you always depict the Valar! Who wouldn't feel healed in their presence? I always say "a god/dess who doesn't love and cherish isn't worth worshipping!" Yup, like I said before, you're really a good writer!!!! I'm also enjoying your reviewers. There are some very thoughtful people that read you (thoughtful meaning thinking a lot and very good at it. hope that speaks well of me HA!) I haven't caught up with your latest stuff yet. I'm catching up on your back story universe. Still halfway through EA2 and took a little side trip. Anyway hope you're well. If you ever come by way of Eugene OR. let's get a NW coffee and some smoked salmon together! love Diana

Legolin · 29 January 2014 · Chapter 142: Songs of Power and Glory

I'm so glad that I don't have to wait for the sequal to this fantastic tale! Ending this with a cliff hanger was a shock. Even though I was forewarned I didn't realize I was at the end until I read the words "to be continued." Thank you for writing such a great fanfiction. Your portrals of these characters is great! There's the perfect balance between humour, angst, and drama. It's been a joy to read! ~Lin

AmazingWriter123 · 20 October 2013 · Chapter 1: Here At the End of All Things

The way you write Namo has made him my favorite!!!!

MikoNoNyte · 9 October 2013 · Chapter 999999: Character List

Oh Fiondil, Fiondil! You are a writer after my own heart. AND you embroider. It was you, and this story, that single-handedly got me to purchase the HoME books and begin reading. I’d tried tackling them before and just … argh! But with trying to read this story I KNEW I would have to tackle more than just the first two volumes. I’m glad I did. I inhaled this story. I read it so quickly I do not believe I came up for air more than a half dozen times. I read it so quickly I had to go back and read it again to capture what I missed the first time. You brought these characters to life for me and for that, I thank you. I had always liked Glorfindel but getting to know your Finrod and the other characters brought smiles and warmth to my heart. They all fit together so well. This piece was a joy to read. Thank you. You have given me, the reader, a wonderful gift. Not just in meeting your version of the Elves but also the Valar. A confusing bunch of names that I just could not decipher and you made it much easier. And who knew? Who knew that the Valar Death God was so awesome? *grins* As a fan of Death Gods, it’s always nice to meet one I did not expect or in a guise I never would have seen. I thank you again. And look forward to reading your other pieces. You are, quite frankly and in my humble opinion, AWESOME!

Fadesintothewest · 27 May 2013 · Chapter 142: Songs of Power and Glory

I certainly enjoyed this story, though what a cliff hanger. Thankfully I have book two that will surely resolve this teaser! Your descriptions of Aman are wonderful. The Reborn, their trials and tribulations are, in my my mind an apt description of what it would be like to return. I can't help but favor the more feral elves who have returned from middle earth. The relationship between Sador, Finrod, and Glorfindel is lovely. I was so happy that Sador was reunited with family, lovely Sinda he is! Not enough is written about Glorfindel so I am happy to see you treat him so richly in your universe. Question, is this the back story to the relationship between Finrod and Glorfindel in Elf Acadamy part 2?

Celeth · 15 March 2013 · Chapter 6: Awakening

Glorfindel as a baby - if only in mind and fea. This chapter was fun. And I always liked Gandalf/Mithrandir/Olorin, in all his roles. Making a special request to be Glorfindel's caregiver endears him even more to me. If there's one thing I really envy in the Elves (and fervently wish it can be true for mortals like us too), its their ability to communicate with nature, especially the trees, animals and the stars. I wish I could talk to them and hear them talk to me too.