Reviews (1,161)

Bodkin · 12 March 2007 · Chapter 49: Plots and Counterplots

Oh dear. Vorondil definitely has a problem. Beyond being stupid and narrow-minded, that is. He is being used - and, I suspect, set up to take the blame for something that Tinwetariel and Ingoldo have been planning for a long time. After all, why else would people that powerful, with plenty of followers of their own, need a rather deluded and gullible young ellon to do their dirty work for them? Fortunately it is pretty well impossible to do anything secretly in Aman - you'd have thought T and I would have noticed that! Or have they been getting away with their obnoxiousness for so long that they have forgotten that they are not fire-proof?

Ellie · 11 March 2007 · Chapter 53: Vand' Antaina

Okay, so you were right we'd hate you even more after chapter 50. You've left poor Glorfindel in the hands of fiends and just abandoned him! For shame! Now we're off in Lorien with Finrod the yummy. I must admit he has an extremely cool new job now. So, wil the others who will serve along side him be allowed to know of his existence and he of theirs or is this organization sooo secret that the servants don't know each other? I wasn't expecting the diced Vanya at breakfast, but it was a very interesting solution to the problem (sorry for the cutting remarks :-) ahahahha) Please do another mid week update and PLEASE don't go skipping off into Tol Eressea land with the other Reborn dude and leave us hanging even longer. Pretty please with a cherry on top? This is such a great story and the gem symbolism and character development and everything is just so great! Well done!

Rhyselle · 11 March 2007 · Chapter 53: Vand' Antaina

*Big beaming grin* Oh this was absolutely awesome! :) From the opening light conversation to Finrod's disgust with the people who hold prejudices against the exiled Noldor, to the variety of Lord Irmo's expressions in reaction to Finrod's statements and opinions, I really felt as if I were right there watching the interaction take place. While I've never believed in utterly controlling fate, I do believe in fore-ordination--the idea that some choices will always be presented to us, no matter what our actions and decisions have been in the past. The plans "that have been in the making since the Darkening of Valinor" feel like that to me. That much had been abandoned due to the changes that the Eldar of Middle-earth caused by their free will decisions and actions makes sense, but there is still an overarching plan in the mind of Eru that brings good out of evil, and ultimately His will is done. I appreciate that Finrod was able to contemplate and think about all that Irmo told him. He's losing his impatience, I notice, and this shows another aspect of increasing maturity. I love the idea of Námo and Irmo looking like mirror images of each other in their formal clothing. The velvet robes and the jeweled belts and the elf-braids and circlets just make such a gorgeous picture in my mind. (BTW, the spelling is "dyed" not "died") The explanation of the tabard, and the way that Finrod was hidden from any who would observe them, was interesting. The secrecy of this particular order of servants is bound to have significance further down the line I daresay! I love how Lord Námo reassured Finrod about Artanis/Galadriel. :) The bit about obedience being an acceptance of their offer to become one of the Fëanturinildi made me think. We do make choices when we choose to obey... even if we aren't consciously aware that we are making such a choice. Finrod's realization that this was, indeed, the answer to his desire to serve and was a calling that he could devote his life to, brought tears to my eyes and a smile to my lips. The oath-giving was wonderful scene, and I liked the humor you incorporated into it. Irrepressible Finrod! :) And I do hope we get to see more of Estë in the future. Her rather ascerbic comment about them going somewhere else so she could sleep made me laugh! Hmmm. I wonder what effect this commitment that Finrod has made will be in regards to his betrothal to Amarië? She's waited so long for him and she's finally really truly fallen properly in love with him and he with her... I hope they won't have to wait another horribly long time to wed! :) (And I hope it is before Glorfindel goes back to Middle-earth, for I know that Finrod would want him to be there!) Excellent chapter! Will we get to see Sador next?

Rhyselle · 11 March 2007 · Chapter 52: Nightmare In Broad Daylight

I like the little cultural lesson on the meaning of the uniforms of the apprentices and journeymen and masters. :) I'm very curious about why Finrod's tabard is so different! Listening without judgment. That is so hard to do. But very healing when it happens. Wow! What a start to the day! Post-traumatic stress is bad enough, but when it was caused by the horrors of war... *shudder* Go Finrod! You know what you're doing. I just hope the ones you've shoved off while you dealt with the crisis don't cause you any trouble later on. I'm glad you didn't actually describe the things that poor Mithlas was seeing and reacting to. My imagination is coming up with more than enough ideas as to what would cause that sort of thing. *shudder* The chaos in that pavilion must be drawing attention from all over the place. The cure for the episode is quite traumatic in its own right, but it makes sense to me. Of course the Amandili won't have a clue, since they'd never experienced what their patients had. I hope that Master Meneldil won't let his bruised pride rule him and won't turn against the Reborn from Middle-earth. Although I'm not sure if he's ever going to forgive Laurendil for cutting him--and telling him publicly to stop whining! LOL! And I hope that Mithlas' attendants don't hold all this against him. OK, I want to hear the story about Laurendil falling out of the tree. *grin* Lord Irmo's outfit sounds gorgeous... It must be nice to be able to clothe oneself in beauty with just a thought! Would save on closet space too! :) Smart of them to not ask Finrod for details of his experience in being trapped in a nightmare like that. I certainly don't want to know! That was kind of Laurindil to offer to stay with Mithlas. And perhaps all this will help him to realize that his own fears and to begin to heal from them as well. :) I did like Irmo leaving Eärnur there with them while he took Finrod with him. I hope that Eärnur will be able to get past his shock and all and still be friends with Finrod. Very intense and exciting chapter and, like the rest, leaves me eager for more. I'm glad you posted the third chapter today too! I just saw a couple of minor grammar/spelling things as I read--lack of the "ed" on a verb for past tense, and using singular "it" in reference to plural "clothes". Otherwise excellent work!

Kitty · 11 March 2007 · Chapter 53: Vand' Antaina

The Fëanturinildi are charged with nothing less than the healing of Aman itself." Hadn’t seen it that way before, but of course Námo is right – in the end that is exactly what the healing of the rift between the elves would lead to. Finrod is certainly right – it is a worthy calling! I'm glad he agreed to it in. And the end, of course, was funny *grin*

Kitty · 11 March 2007 · Chapter 52: Nightmare In Broad Daylight

Now I thought only with Glorfindel around it could be that exciting in Aman, but I seem to be wrong *grin* Well, Finrod’s reaction may have been unusual by the standards of Aman and is at first sight a bit brutal, but it worked to calm the poor elf down, and I can see the reason – orcs have black blood, after all. And for apprentices at their first day Finrod and Laurendil did very well, I'd say.

Rhyselle · 11 March 2007 · Chapter 51: Return to Lórien

What a lovely gift to find upon my return home from church today. :) Finrod, as always, is a joy to meet again. I love his concern for Laurendil, and I liked his getting to know Manwen. I smiled when he considered whether to order Laurendil to smile... but I'm glad he didn't. He's matured a lot since we saw him so unhappy while waiting for Glorfindel to be reborn. That brief retelling of how Manwen and Laurelin met has me intrigued. I'm not quite to the fall of Doriath in my re-reading of THE SILMARILLION but now I'm going to probably be imagining them at the Havens at Sirion. I love how your minor characters come along with back-stories just begging to be explored. I do want to shake Laurendil, though. Sulking in the inn while they were in Valmar. He's bloody stubborn! And his rudeness to Lord Irmo was... well, extremely inconsiderate and impolite. Finrod putting on his "King of Nargothrond" hat was very effective... I wonder how many times he'll find that useful as he continues on in his second life? :) I am now exceedingly curious as to what Laurendil's reasons for wanting to escape Aman actually were. Eärnur is a nice surprise for Finrod! I like how we are now getting more glimpses into Finrod's time in Lorien as he prepared to go out into the world again. The description of the pavilion on the shore of the lake made me long for a beautiful place like that to sit in peace and tranquility... something in short supply in a family with as many children as I have! I find it interesting that Finrod's identity has been moving towards the Findaráto lately. He's obviously been coming to terms with being as much of Aman as he was of Middle-earth now. But I think that he's really, deep in his heart, Finrod, even if he's not got any problems with responding to his original name. "Now the orc is on the other foot, aranya..." LOL! That was priceless. And I can just see Finrod in my mind, gaping at Lord Irmo and stuttering. "You will learn to minister to the other Reborn." Ah... so now we know more of just what's up with the things going on in regards to Finrod. This makes so much sense! And, looking back, in a lot of ways, he began "training" for it when in the Halls of Renewal when he befriended Glorfindel and made him feel loved and accepted there... or so it seems to me. That bit about Arafinwe being apprenticed to Lord Manwë was interesting... but it certainly makes sense! I liked Manwen's response to Irmo's discussion of her experience. It's true that people who have never experienced the horrors of war can never really understand it, no matter how well meaning they may be. Laurendil's capituation: Even admitting that you don't know of what one is afraid of is a way to begin to face and overcome those fears. I look forward to seeing how Laurendil does in the future. Is he one of those minor characters who took on a life of his own, or was he planned for in your original conception of this story? I'm certain that Finrod will come to accept what has been arranged for him, and will come to find joy and happiness in doing it. Let's face it, when a King is immortal, what else is there for an heir to do? Unlike Men, Eldari crown princes have a long time to wait for papa to retire... they need alternate employment. I liked how we got to know more about minor characters in this chapter as well as more about Finrod. I look forward to seeing what happens next! :) On to Chapter 52!

Kitty · 11 March 2007 · Chapter 51: Return to Lórien

Laurendil seems to need help rather desperately. He has obviously not come to terms with being in Aman at all, poor guy. As for Finrod, I think I understand the reason behind the whole thing – another way to mend the rift between Reborn and One-born (nice expression, btw). Could be very interesting, and knowing your fic so far and considering the other part with Glorfindel, I’m sure there will happen something, too.

MithLuin · 11 March 2007 · Chapter 53: Vand' Antaina

Yea, Finrod is back! I liked the photo-negative outfits the Feanturi wore, and how Finrod is maturing before our eyes. He may still be a bit rash, but he has not lost his wisdom. As soon as I relized the stripes on his tabard were black, I knew Namo would be behind it ;) I think it would be easier for the Valar to answer the charge of manipulation if they could assure him that he was reborn when he was because he was ready - not because they pushed him along quickly or anything like that. The explanation that they have many contingency plans, and use the ones that work was the same idea, but very big-picture! (I'm sure the elves seem to have their eye more on the big picture that mortals do, but the Valar even moreso!) And the meeting of Finrod and Bëor led to Barahir saving Finrod, which led to Finrod making his Oath and giving his ring, which led to Finrod helping Beren, which led to his death, and Beren and Luthien reclaiming a silmaril, which led to....well, a lot! But also the entire line of Luthien.... Even the Valar cannot see where that will lead, in the end.

Calenlass Greenleaf · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 50: Taken

Finrod??? *forgets about poor Glorfindel* As much as I love 'Findel, I love Finrod even more... Now I *really* can't wait for the next update. :-) Happy writing!

hanci · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 50: Taken

I forgot to mention, I was glad to see Ingwë aware of the happenings in his city and sending messages to Valmar. Maybe the one for Ingwion will arrive in time to settle matters a bit? I really had to smile when Glorfindel spoke to the Vanyar, they had thought themselves inconspicuous... I like your use of different points of view, it offers such a variety and fullness to the story. And Valar only watching and waiting... I'm glad they are there, but I shudder to think what will happen when they finally decide to act... Meanwhile, I'm really curious what Ingwion will do - and Glorfindel, when he wakes. This is not a cliffhanger, it's something worse.

hanci · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 49: Plots and Counterplots

I never thought the plan would be that simple! To take Glorfindel to Taniquetil! Applause for you. Vorondil is in for a nasty awakening. A pity he didn't got to hear an unedited version from his father. But words probably wouldn't suffice.

hanci · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

There's so much from my last review! I will try not to repeat others, as I mostly agree with them. You describe Valmar as if you've been there! Inn named Laughing Vala, that's something. Good idea with the gems and homes of the Valar, but I miss flowers there. With detailed descriptions of the houses and the stones, mentions of a garden fade into background. But I really liked Ulmo's home, the spiral was also interesting... Oh, back to stones, beryl isn't only a proper name for emerald, emerald is just a variety of beryl, others are f.e. aquamarine or heliodor. Normally, beryl is colourless. Oh, that's nothing important, I just had a different impression of Valmar up to your first note. And staying with beryls, the backstory you have given to the stone Glorfindel leaves for Aragorn and the hobbits... I don't have words. I always thought of it as a "trinket", a symbol only. Now I see WHY it was an emerald, and to think it was a stone from Aman, and from Olórin, it has so much more meaning now. Thanks. I will skip comments on actions, let me mention only that the examination was scary, begetting day celebration surprising and beautiful, the first visit to the Máhanaxar symbolic (to me) and the cliffhanger really evil! Hooded figure in the corner... I guess it won't be a ranger, here. LOL. I tried to persuade myself I was being overly suspicious of that person, it could be anyone, but it seems not. Unless it was Finrod, for example, there to help - but since he's in Lórien...

MithLuin · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 50: Taken

Oh, no, this cliff-hanger isn't nearly as bad, because this time, we at least know what has happened and who is responsible. Six Vanyar don't seem nearly as bad as some nebulous dark force with nefarious purposes ;). Vorondil doesn't make a very good warrior, does he? He didn't even think to bring a weapon. The poor Noldo is being used, but I hope he learns his lesson. I am a bit worried for Glorfindel though - they told him he won't like what will happen if he ventures onto Taniquetal.

Nikara · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 50: Taken

Argh! You are really quite good at leaving off at awful places. Now the past few chapter's events make a lot more sense. Poor Glorfi, he's certainly having a rough time of it.

Kitty · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 50: Taken

*growls* How DARE they??? Honestly, that they needed so many to hold Glorfindel down and then only had the courage to beat him up while he was unconscious is so pathetic! They should be ashamed. And how on earth to they think the Valar could believe Glorfindel went there of his own if he's beaten up so badly? As I said - they're absolutely stupid. Though I am glad to know there are the Maiar around Glorfindel, so at least his life is not in danger. All in all, the cliffhanger is not as bad as I had feared, at least not now. Can’t wait for the next update!

Kitty · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 49: Plots and Counterplots

I see my suspicions about the reason for Glorfindel’s vanishing weren’t unfounded. Though I doubt these idiotic conspirators will have any success with this plot in the end. They are so stupid it hurts! Do they truly think the Valar wouldn’t know how Glorfindel got to Taniquetil?? *groans* But I am pleased to see Valandur was suspicious, also, and talked to the High King. And they seem to have guessed right. Somehow I have the feeling the High King will not be pleased with some certain elves. Not pleased at all.

Rhyselle · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 49: Plots and Counterplots

Again, writing the review as I go along in my reading. Ah, so now we get to see some of the background events outside of Glorfindel’s knowledge. Vorondil’s jealousy and dislike should have been warning signs to me in earlier chapters but so much was going on that he slipped entirely off of my radar. I had to remind myself that he is a very inexperienced ellon, although that certainly does not excuse his attitude and behavior. What I’m wondering is just what has caused his hatred for the Reborn. Who inculcated this attitude in him to begin with? He had to have learned it somewhere (I’m recalling “You’ve Got to Be Taught” from SOUTH PACIFIC). And while he has these strong desires to be a real warrior, he certainly does not know what being a real warrior entails—and it seems that his father didn’t do him any favors by whitewashing what the War of Wrath was really like. The comment that he respects and fears the Valar makes me wonder then how he can justify going against their actions in regards to the Reborn, and the only thing I can think of is that he has not personally interacted with the Valar much at all—and that since he is young, he still is very self-centered and still immature and unable to recognize in his heart that the Valar do have a purpose in all they do. I suppose much of his hatred of the Reborn have to do with the prejudice against the Sindar whose ancestors remained in Middle Earth for the love of it, and the anger that the Amaneldi held against the Noldor Exiles for the Kinslaying all those many centuries before. It’s an interesting point that he so desires to wear the warrior braids that were a practice of the very subsets of Elves that he despises. Much of this first section reiterates over and over how Vorondil is conflicted and confused but refuses to admit it to himself. Frankly, he meets all of my standards of judging a person to be mentally ill. Ingoldo and Tinwetariel intrigue me in that there are some unanswered questions about them. Just what did Tinwetariel do before that caused Ingwe to give her that reminder when he told her off for slighting Glorfindel publicly in front of the court? There’s implications of negative history here that really bother me! In regards to the Song, it is interesting that Vorondil did not find the comfort in it that apparently most of the other Eldar did. Is it possible that his own selfish and hateful tendencies have made him incapable of finding the even some of the joy in it that someone like one of the Reborn who have been forgiven and cleansed experience? He felt guilt at the sight of the Elder King—so what was it in his heart that he had to feel guilty about? I believe that subconsciously he knows that he is wrong to despise the Reborn, but is too stubborn to admit it to himself and to change the way he thinks, and thus perpetuates his inner discontent and hatred of those of whom he is jealous. I would hope that had he not spent time with Ingoldo and Tinwetariel, Vorondil would not have actually made the choice to act upon his feelings. It is apparent to me that they are using Vorondil as an agent for their own purposes against Glorfindel. He is a minor, and from a legalistic standpoint, would that be held to be a mitigating factor? Those who should have been teaching him to turn away from his hatred, instead feed it, and subtly direct him into the actions that he will surely come to regret. Not that this excuses his hatred, of course. It is rather arrogant of them to believe that the Noldor who have returned to Tol Eressea have not been forgiven by the Valar. I can understand the Vanyar being upset that their loved ones who died in the War of Wrath have not been released from Mandos yet—but none of them seem willing to even think that there might be a reason for that. (A reason that occurs to me is that they need a LOT of healing. They’d not had the experience of centuries of war against Morgoth’s creatures—and the kinslayers, too—and had grown up in peacefulness, and so the horror of the events and actions they lived through during the War of Wrath would have affected them far worse than it would someone who had lived their lives in pretty much constant peril.) I thought that the wording that Tinwetariel used in regards to Glorfindel never returning to Vanyamar was sneaky and nasty. By implying a more horrific action—murder—she is able to nudge Vorondil into a lesser action against Glorfindel, but one that could still have severe ramifications for the Reborn. (Of course, we readers know that the ban on Glorfindel’s coming to Taniquetil has been lifted but no one else knows that.) At least they are not so far gone as to actually openly promote murder… although I’m sure that’s more for pragmatic reasons than moral. And Tinwetariel is way too practiced at knocking down other people in ways that don’t point directly to herself, IMO! And Ingoldo seems to have made these sort of plans to hide illicit actions from those in authority before… this was just a bit too practiced, and the fact that he had men in his following who would be willing to attack another elf is telling. I think that it wasn’t that Vorondil was asking to leave the city on the hunting trip that triggered suspicion, but the people with whom he was going. I have to admit that it amuses me to think that these people believe that they are going to get away with all their plots and plans—they live in Valinor and the Valar are able to be anywhere with the speed of thought, and there are unclothed Maiar about, doing their various duties—and we saw in the aftereffects of the Song that there are LOTS of unclothed Maiar around! They’ve completely ignored these facts and assume their secrets are still secrets. The Valar have said that they will not openly interfere in an Eldar to Eldar dispute, but they DO know what is going on and I’m really looking forward to how this all resolves. On to read the next chapter!

Calenlass Greenleaf · 7 March 2007 · Chapter 50: Taken

The poor, poor elf. This is an even worse cliffie. I hope we find out what happens to Glorfindel *soon*. Those Vanyar are unbelievably prejudiced.

Edlyn · 6 March 2007 · Chapter 3: Return to Innocence

The third chapter... and Glorfindel's healing continues. It doesn't surprise me that it takes time for Glorfindel to process his judging and the memories that he had to live through again. It was obviously traumatic (though very necessary) and the completely overwhelming experience of feeling the unconditional love of Ilúvatar is yet another thing that his psyche needs time to sort out. The forgetting is interesting. I wonder how much of it is Glorfindel's own subconscious doing it and how much the Valar and Maiar are causing. Unlike the "Obliviate" spell of the Harry Potter universe (which in my opinion should be an Unforgivable Curse) where the memories are destroyed, this "forgetting" seems to be a case of taking the memories, folding them neatly and tucking them on shelves in a sort of mental linen cupboard where they are shut behind a door until they are needed or wanted again. It also allows Glorfindel to begin learning to live again without the unhealthy habits of his earthly lifetime barging in and interfering with his acceptance of forgiveness. "Go play." I smiled at that. I have to remind myself to "go play," to give myself permission to enjoy others and the gift of the world we've been given. I found it interesting that Findaráto has decidedly chosen to be known by his Middle-Earth identity of Finrod and isn't shy about telling people the fact, thought he does accept his identity (and prior life in Aman) as Findaráto. However, as he told Glorfindel, he's been in Mandos for a longer time and has had time to process his experience and grow. I also found it interesting that Glorfindel only identifies himself as Glorfindel instead of by his Quenya name that he bore before the rebellion. It's very telling and demonstrative of his determination to live up to the consequences of his previous actions, and perhaps is not a denial of his former life in Aman but reflects his belief that when he made his choice to follow Turgon, he gave up his previous name and identity. Or it could be that he feels that if he goes back to his prior name it negates all his decisions and actions as Glorfindel. (Yes, I have a "thing" about personal identity. It likely comes from being an identical twin and the struggle to develop an identity of my own while trying not to break the intensely close relationship I've had with my twin since our birth.) The nightmares and the remembering of witnessing Elenwë's death on the Helcaraxë makes it obvious that Glorfindel's healing is a process, one that will be long and likely arduous at times. Ah, so the tapestries show the deaths of the ellyn and ellith. I would most certainly think that seeing a depiction of his death would upset and frighten Glrofindel, even to the point of paralysis. And Lord Námo once again appears in his aspect of the Consoler, bless him. When Finrod left the Halls to be re-embodied it reminded me of the first time I was separated from my twin for more than one night when we were 8 years old. I was devastated (as was my twin) when she stayed at our Grandmother's house in Maryland for the summer while I had to go back to Ohio with the rest of the family. I was terrified that I'd never see her again and cried pretty much constantly all the first week. Eventually, I believed my mother when she said that my twin would be coming home at the end of the summer and it was wonderful in August when we were together again and each of us had different stories about our adventures to tell each other. The experience helped each of us begin to find our individual selves but initially it was one of the most miserable times of my life. Glorfindel needed Finrod to be his friend but if Finrod hadn't go on ahead it is likely that Glorfindel would have remained dependent upon his presence eventually to the point of it being unsafe and unhealthy for each of them. It's obvious (to me, anyway) that the Maiar and Lord Námo care very much for their charges but it seems that Glorfindel is already filling a particular spot in the Valar's heart. This was beautifully written and I can hear Lord Námo's voice singing in the back of my head as I type this. May you live blessed, Edlyn

Edlyn · 6 March 2007 · Chapter 2: Máhanaxar

On to Chapter Two... Hmmmm, so Glorfindel's judgment is long overdue? Was Estë chiding her brother for allowing Glorfindel's fëa to rest for so long? Ten solar years seems like a long time to me but, of course, I look on such things as a mortal instead of an immortal. Then again, perhaps the Valar need him to get through this now so he will have the time to be ready for the things he will need to do in his Reborn life when they need him. I gather that different fëa need different amounts of time to be capable of dealing with being judged. I'm not surprised at Glorfindel's immediate panic upon truly waking, given that unless one remembers their dreams, subjective time seems to not pass when one sleeps. It's essentially a continuation of his initial panic upon realizing he was in the Hall of Mandos and perfectly understandable, in my opinion. I found it interesting that Námo soothed him (even if his face was stern I think he was still more in his Aspect of the Comforter/Consoler here) by reminding him of his earthly identity, particularly his title. It was an affirmation that he was still himself as well as a reminder that certain behaviours are expected of that identity. Considering that Glorfindel's self-esteem, pride and reason for existing at this time in his afterlife are tied to his identity as the Lord of the house of the Golden Flower, it allowed him to pull himself together enough to obey the summons. Hmmmm, was the implacability of the silence of the Valar merely Glorfindel's impression because of his predisposition to see judgment as a punishment or were they truly implacable? I've always used the term implacable as a synonym for merciless, intolerant or impossible to please with no sense of compassion. I just cannot think of the Valar as merciless or uncompassionate. They must be equitable, fair and do their work with conviction in accordance with the will of Ilúvatar but everything they do (even when they must chastise) they do with compassion. Unfortunately, I cannot think of another adjective that might convey the sense you want to achieve by this part of the chapter. I personally see the judgment of the Valar as (per the Mirriam-Webster dictionary definition 4a) "the process of forming an opinion or evaluation by discerning and comparing" instead of condemnation, which many people (including Glorfindel, it appears) seem to equate with judgment. Condemnation may indeed result from judgment but is not the only possible result as Glorfindel has discovered by the time he is returned to his couch in the halls of Mandos. The process is painful but like the lancing of an infected wound, the end result (if all goes as it should) is healing. Also, I would think that the Valar would be a bit tired of the pre-conception that the Ring of Doom is a place of condemnation and punishment after all these millenia. Hmmm. Manwë refers to Glorfindel as "the Balrog-Slayer," a new identity that Glorfindel is going to have to accept. A new identity for a new life, perhaps? Speaking of identities again, it appears that Glorfindel, while proud of being the Lord of the House of the Golden Flower, was insecure in his new identity and that was what engendered the feeling that his counsel would be unwelcome to Turgon. I can understand this completely as most, if not all, of your readers likely do. Life is made up of change and our identities shift with the changes in our lives no matter that we were perfectly comfortable with safety and familiarity of our previous identity and now things are unstable and frightening (I kept thinking of my shift from a civilian bank teller in my home town to becoming an Air Force radio technician stationed thousands of miles away from where I grew up and then the transition from Air Force staff sergeant to disabled veteran as I read through this and other chapters where Glorfindel is struggling to accept his new life). Again, you have reflected the experience of human beings in the character of Glorfindel, making him even more someone that I can see myself in as I read. We humans are just as capable (if not more so) as elves to delude ourselves in order to make the consequences of our decisions more palatable. It makes sense to me that you have to look at what is written on the slate of your life with those excuses and self-delusions stripped away so that you can understand yourself and be able to truly accept forgiveness for your errors. But best of all is that you showed us that once judgment has been completed, Glorfindel (and therefore us) is still (and has always been) unconditionally beloved of the Valar and Ilúvatar. It seems that Glorfindel will still need to go through a purgatory of sorts to get to the point where he truly believes this, having to unlearn much of the behaviours that he's used for millenia to cope with his guilt and confusion, but at the end of this chapter, I feel assured that he will manage to forgive himself for what he perceives as his failures. Ah, I have grown long-winded, I fear. This is a fascinating story and I truly like looking at each chapter in depth and seeing what I can pull from the waters. May you live blessed, Edlyn

Edlyn · 6 March 2007 · Chapter 1: Here At the End of All Things

Well, now that I've read through everything you've written in this marvelous story so far by going straight through and hitting the "next" link because I just HAD to know what happened next, I'm re-reading it chapter by chapter and am going to review and offer my opinions on each. First of all, I want to tell you that I like the balanced way you describe the appearances of characters and places and things. Usually, I don't appreciate stand-alone descriptions because they tend to turn into "laundry lists" and do nothing to add to the story but your descriptions don't slow things down at all. Besides, since you are dealing with the Valar and Maiar who are only embodied when they wish to be, what they look like at a particular time seems to give clues as to their states of mind and what "job" they are doing at the time of embodiment. Now to the specifics: From the beginning of the chapter you make it clear that Glorfindel has his identity (almost) completely tied up in his ability and need to fulfil his duty to his sworn lord. His belief that he has failed in his duty because he couldn't see for himself that Idril and Eärendil made it to safety and the automatic assumption of guilt due to his "failure" makes this very apparent. I like it that Glorfindel isn't "perfect" that he's "human" with the misconceptions and purposeful self-adjusting of his personal image to allow him to deal with living with his decisions. I suspect that the extemity of his guilt response has developed because of how torn he was to have followed Turgon, caught between his need to obey the Valar and his need to obey his sworn lord. Since he decided (whether consciously or unconsciously) that his oath to his sworn lord was paramount he likely made the fulfillment of duty to his lord the proof that he was not a "bad elf." Any time he failed in what he saw as his duty the guilt he felt as he left Aman rebounded and likely increased. So the panic attack he had when he realized that Lord Námo was present is perfectly understandable. All of a sudden he "knows" that he made the wrong decision and therefore his entire identity is in question. No womder he shatters. His identity is breaking to pieces, he's terrified of the price he believes he'll have to pay for making the "wrong" choice to follow Turgon, and he only recognizes Námo as the Doomsman rather than the Comforter. The way Námo made his presence known (I can hear the gentleness and rueful amusement in his voice as I read his "Glorfindel, Glorfindel, what ever are we to do with you?") and his facing Glorfindel in his aspect of the Comforter was beautifully depicted. I can see that there would be some who he might have to greet first in his aspect of Doomsman of the Valar, but in this case and (I suspect most cases) the Comforter is what is needed more than anything else. The feeling of uncaring that washes over Glorfindel after the panic attack is over is one that I am unfortunately familiar with having been the victim of panic attacks myself from time to time. I personally have come to the conclusion that the "Nothing matters, I don't matter," aftermath is due mostly to the physical and psychological exhaustion a panic attack engenders and it's extremity of expression is a mirror of the intensity of the prior attack and the guilt that engendered it. I find I like the idea of the Fëa acting in the same manner as the body that it wore in life, especially given the centuries or even millenia that an elf was embodied. Habit is a marvelous thing, isn't it? Lastly, I was grabbed by the personality of Glorfindel from the first. I find that I truly care about him. This depiction is much more accessible to me than the "elf of garganuation power" that another author has used in her Glorfindel stories. It's much easier for me to identify with a protagonist who isn't perfect, who isn't flawless. I also decided to look up the meaning of the noun "doom" and was interested to find it doesn't necessarily mean death or ruin, but also judgment. And I know from personal experience that judgment isn't always painful but can be at it's best healing. Thank you for sharing your vision of Glorfindel's "intermezzo" between his two lives in Middle-Earth. May you lived blessed, Edlyn (Rhyselle's twin sister)

Bodkin · 6 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

Oh my. That Ingwion is one imposing elf! Standing up to Manwe like that - bloodying his hair in preparation for battle! I wouldn't want to be the one to have carried off his sworn brother. Glorfindel had just better be unharmed! That Hunt sounds a dangerous thing - and Ingwion is more than ready for it. I'm not sure that being bait isn't worse ... when Glorfindel's friends come to think about it. Maybe going back to the Ring of Doom wasn't the wisest thing Glorfindel could have done - but then, he needs to face what happened and come to terms with it if he is to become complete again. Bit early, perhaps. And now! I hope he's all right.

Bodkin · 6 March 2007 · Chapter 47: The Will of the Valar

I like the reminder of just how old Glorfindel is - seeing the remains of the trees wouldn't necessarily be a lot of fun to someone who remember them in their glory. Changing the opinions of the Once-Born. Probably easier said than done. There's not a great deal of incentive for the immortal to be flexible in their attitudes. But I'm sure they'll manage it. Somehow. And Glorfindel collects sworn brothers like sweets! (Fair enough, really!)

Rhyselle · 5 March 2007 · Chapter 48: Echoes of the Past, Storms of the Present

I'm reviewing as I read, so this will be a sort of stream of thought review--hopefully it will be more coherent than my usual notetaking style from when I read my textbooks for university! Starting out, I recall that the Maiar were ordered to guard Glorfindel for two full days... but I didn't think of what might happen after that assignment was over. The description of the two ellon exploring the town made me smile. It reminded me of when I dragged my friend Kathy, who had lived in London for about two years when I got there, all over the place, looking for places I'd read about and finding gems of locations that the guidebooks don't mention. :) The locals must have thought we were crazy for getting excited over little gardens in the middle of residential squares and architectural details that most people never even notice. *grin* The description of the fountain of Ulmo and Osse that they found sound familiar to me but darned if I can remember where. This is going to niggle me until I find it... Ah, he needs Manwë's permission to depart. Another reminder of Glorfindel being recently reborn after a life away from Valinor... his lack of knowledge of the protocol when dealing with being summoned to visit the Valar. I like the mental image of all of the elves sitting around and chattering about what to see and do the following day. I keep getting reminded of scenes of my own life during the four years I lived in England and things my friends and I would do there--arguing over whether to spend the day in the V&A or to go down to Greenwich or just to wander Bloomsbury or one of the parks... :) Hmmm. A hooded figure... watching our dear Glorfi... this could be good or bad. I'm reserving judgement, as there could be all sorts of reasons for someone keeping their identity hidden. Your stories are complicated enough that I don't want to assume this is a bad guy. *g* The visit to the Ezellohar and the Máhanaxar was intriguing. I'm trying to figure out Glorfindel's emotional reactions to seeing Lord Námo's home and when he pointed out his throne in the Ring of Doom. He really is of mixed feelings about that particular Vala, but this seems odd somehow. I can't figure out WHY he's reacting this way. It was interesting that only he entered the ring. I wonder if the others had a subconscious feeling that by entering so, they would be opening themselves up for judgment? Hmmmm. The point about Glorfindel's age and experience compared to that of his companions was needed, I think. It's so easy, when being enchanted by the youthfulness of his reactions to things since his rebirth, to forget that he was a Lord of Gondolin and a mighty warrior, and someone of power and note from centuries before most of these Eldari were begotten. I wonder what he was saying that his companions could not hear. I'm certain that Námo knows... but obviously he isn't telling. Oops... has he slipped the leash? Oh, Valar... he doesn't return. Ingwion should have acted upon his initial instinct to go searching, I bet! This is probably a wierd comment since it has nothing to do with the plot, but I like that fact that Valinor has weather and not climate! It rains, it has seasons and even elves have to deal with getting soaked or getting snowed on in winter. I've read other stories set in the Undying Lands, and it seems that the weather is always perfect, no one there trips and skins their knees or gets caught at the top of a tree they can't climb down (*wink*), and their elves don't get mad at each other... Your Valinor is a "real" place in my mind. I like Ingwion very much. He's definitely a take charge type person, and I'm glad that Glorfindel has made a true friend in him. And I'm glad to Alassiel has learned enough of what kind of person Glorfindel is to be able to figure out where he was likely to go. Oh Valar!.... This does NOT look good! Whose blood is on the knife? I hope it's not Glorfindel's. "Then I will stand here until he does." Ingwion’s voice was cold and implacable. "I will not leave of my own volition otherwise." Oh, this line gave me shivers. I can feel his adamancy. Was it the Maiar's idea to allow him entrance, or was the the will of their boss? Oh boy, irresistable force meet immovable object... I truly would not want to have been the one facing Manwë and the rest at this point. I wonder if Ingwion had any idea of how much his heart had taken in Glorfindel until this point where he is willing to face the wrath of the Valar with his own wrath. Again, like many other critical scenes that you've written, this scene of confrontation screams to be drawn out! I wish I had the talent. Seeing this section through Elessairon's eyes is an interesting POV. We see the action but we have to guess the motivations and thoughts of those Elessairon is observing. "He struggled to remain conscious, willing himself to remain a witness to whatever disaster was about to befall the heir to the High Kingship of Eldamar." Yep, if the crown prince is going to be toast, someone needs to tell his dad what happened... "Is he alive?" "For the moment." Oh, again with the shivers. What would happen if Glorfindel dies again? Would that mean that he will be stuck in Mandos until Arda's renewing? or would he be given a third chance? I truly don't want to have to find out! Can't go home nor send a message... they've got to find him themselves... oh my! Is a quest to find the Balrog Slayer going to ensue? Poor Ingwion! The fear and frustration and rage that must be tearing him up inside is awful. I feel so bad for him--And how many of us have wanted to rage at those in authority over us who have given us conflicting direction, the same way that Ingwion raged against the Valar? I've wanted to, but haven't had the courage--or stupidity--to do so! Ooh, more of the Valar that I haven't met before other than name. I like the implication that Ingwion spent time with Oromë in his younger days... "He's the bait." And so this is what they were leading up to... removing the protections on Glorfindel so whomever the bad guys are will nab him... so they can be nabbed? I wish I were better at discerning clues... you've likely fit in the information we need to at least get an idea of the perpetrators, but I can't quite see who all of the likely suspects might be--although we have got people identified as disliking the Reborn, and Glorfindel in particular--If we were going for the obvious, I'd say that it was Ingoldo and Lady Tinwetariel behind it... Bloodying his hair... omigosh... It's not quite an oath, but I definitely would not want to be anywhere near Ingwion's outward path when the hunt begins. (And they'd better start by following that trace at the Ring of Doom where the body had been dragged away--unless that downpour has washed away any signs.) I look forward to seeing the next chapter--will we get to hear the Valaróma then? (And you are probably relieved to get to the end of this review! It's your own fault it's this long, you know *teasing grin* If you didn't pack so much into each chapter there would be much less to comment on!)