Reviews (1,565)

Tari · 25 March 2009 · Chapter 50: Dark Memory

A pure black stallion with a white mane and tail would be awesome to see. Were it possible, I wouldn’t mind riding such a steed myself. Isn’t it sad how things from our past can taint the present? It took great patience on the part of the Vala and Maia to allow him the time to realize what the problem was. It will take even more time to heal from all these horrors.

ellie · 25 March 2009 · Chapter 50: Dark Memory

What a horrific expereince for Glorfindel where his parents are concerned. I'm not surprised he reacted the way he did to the maiar. I thought he was in for an adventure to his liking after the end of the previous chapter and his decision to go and fulfill his oath to Turgon's scions. Poor Glorfy! I hope he can find some peace after this awful memory. sigh...

Fantasia · 25 March 2009 · Chapter 50: Dark Memory

What a terrible memory...I remember to read about it in your Tapestry story. I suppose that it will take a long time for Glorfindel to forgive his father, you can rationally understand the problem but to accept it at the emotion level will be a different situation...Anyway, I think that Lisselindë and Glorfindel have very similar personalities, we all think very bad of her because she feels that Glorfindel and the other ones are treating her as a thrall and her reaction was not the best, well, here you have Glorfindel, just behaving as bas as Lisselindë and thinking the same, even if the cause was different, he has not right to threat her with his sword, I'll say that I like her, even if she has issues, but I least she is not evil and very much like him.

Ces · 25 March 2009 · Chapter 50: Dark Memory

Poor Glorfindel; he really must feel so alone right about now. Hopefully he can begin to heal now that he's gotten all that out and found out what happened to his atar. A sad, chilling chapter. On the other hand, Eönwë shows up with 'The Book.' I loved it! You really must write at least a chapter of him and the oaths some of our favorite elves/elflings (Legolas, Elladan/Elrohir) have given over the years. The conversation regarding star cores was funny. You really give me the feeling I'm eavesdropping on their little conversations! Ces

Thalanee · 25 March 2009 · Chapter 50: Dark Memory

poor Glorfindel! That must have been a really hard day for him, having that particular memory to mull over all the time. No wonder that he snapped. It will probably be quite some time before he can forgive his father (though his mind may know that his father was not entirely sane at that point, his heart hasn´t accepted that... yet) the little anecdote about Aule and his star cores was a perfect counterpoint to lighten the mood a bit. I could picture Aule standing there with his head down, shuffling his feet while Yavanna gave him a lecture *snicker* Greetings Thalanee

Larner · 25 March 2009 · Chapter 50: Dark Memory

A terrible memory to hold, and shocking to those who see it brought forth in such a manner. I don't blame them for being concerned!

TobyRi · 24 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

It is wonderful that he is going to be able to fulfill that oath one day.. :) This is amazing writing! I have been reading this for, well, a year now and I also read the first book, and they are... I can't find a decent word to describe it... Fantabulous...? But anyways, I love the way you portray the characters and how they are so full of life! And how the Valar also make mistakes, even with their power and 'greatness'. :D I'm looking forward to the next chapter !! :) ~TobyRi

Edlyn · 23 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

I came home from a weekend away from the computer to find this lovely, lovely chapter; what a nice welcome home present, meldonya! I love the balance of emotions throughout this. And if I list all the lines that made me smile or laugh this would be as long a review as your story. But I think my favourite humourous line was the one about Tuitalion stealing the wine from Nienna's own cellars. Nienna is very good at what she does, isn't she? Though I find myself wondering if she ever gets a chance to take a day off so she can leave off being the "big sister"/teacher/couselor for a bit. I certainly would have liked to have been sitting round that fire listening to Glorfindel tell of the coming of Tuor to Gondolin, but I suppose I shall just have to apply my imagination since I couldn't. You have done your usual excellent job, meldonya. Thank you for sharing! Eru bless! Edlyn

Hel · 22 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

So Nienna prevents Lisselindë from sensing the cats to teach her a lesson. Yes, sounds like her. And as we see, she gets her point across both of them. And I think everyone would be uneasy at the thought of Glorfindel and Finrod sparring after the last time. Teaching and honing Glorfindel´s ability to sense evil will be vital for his future and his future role. And it will keep him occupied and out of trouble for the moment. So Tiutalion has an even bigger mischievous streak than Glorfindel. Well he is a maia and older. But if Glorfindel tries he will shurely get even. And I don´t wonder that everyone is interested in hearing Glordindel´s version of Tuors arrival in Gondolin and his life there. I would like to hear it too. I´ve also wonder where Tuor and Idril are now and if they have a further role to play and if they meet Glorfindel again. Maybe it would help Glordindel to speak with them about the flight from Gondolin and to accept that by fighting the Balrog he has fulfilled all his oaths to the fullest. Sometimes he sounds as if he should have done more and as if he feels like he has failed his king.

Agape4Gondor · 22 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

'Take up your sword, Glorfindel, whenever you see a need to do so.' I love this line - simple, yet powerful. "You did not sense the alatyauli because I prevented you from doing so." Hmmm - tricky - even to their own kind. Hopefully, Glorfindel will note this and not be quite so ready to rebel against the Valar. '...were being treated by Lady Nienna almost as elflings sitting before their tutor.' I had to giggle at this one - as soon as I saw the word 'stools' I had the same feeling!!! And yet, I love Glordindel's obedience and observations regarding the Maia... '...we will train you to use this power to its fullest...' What a gift!!!! '...he would make it a point from now on to be very careful never to make her angry.' Another giggle from this reader. '...how long it took to bring my brother Námo around.' I love this line for it seems to give some perspective, hope, and understanding to Lisselinde... gives a concrete example of someone even greater than she needing help. Lovely! (though I cringed at the word 'rehabilitation' - I think that would have rankled me, if I were the Maia!) I loved the 'which of use is crazier' line and felt deeply Glorfindel's uncertainty about being 'trouble.' WOW - the ending was perfect - I did so love Ulmo joining them - seemed only right if they were going to talk about Tuor... but I can understand Glorfindel's sudden discomfiture. Lovely lovely chapter....

Kitty · 22 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

Glorfindel's worries about using his sword are understandable, IMHO. Was thinking along the same line myself. Glad Nienna did reassure him in that regard. *raises brow* Nienna did prevent Lisselindë from sensing these cats? Interesting! It explains a lot, of course. And I see, Glorfindel did much better with that test than she did :) Hm, yes, the ability to sense evil would be very useful for Glorfindel when he returns to Middle-earth. But of course they will not tell him any time soon that he will be the first elf to be sent back. Glorfindel did make a big step ahead this day, I think. He felt more ... at home, more secure of himself when he acted on his warrior instincts, and his thoughts about Nienna's dinners seem to indicate that he is now beginning to accept the intent of the Valar, instead of resent it. Oh, dinner as picnic at a campfire? That sounds great, and I guess Glorfindel will feel much more comfortable with that than with a formal dinner. So Tiutalion is even more mischievous than Glorfindel? No wonder he was the one to get the job of keeping him company *lol* Such a pity you will send Glorfindel off with Lisselindë soon. The Maiar didn't manage to drag Glorfindel into real mischief so far, after all ;) But the end was lovely, Glorfindel sitting there at the campfire and telling the Valar about Tuor and Idril. I think that was what he needed - to be able to talk about his former live with someone who really listened and cared for him, and it will help to make him feel more comfortable around the Valar, I believe. And I'm sure he will meet Eärendil. First, he's one stubborn ellon who knows usually gets what he wants, and second, you mentioned that already somewhere. I really look forward to that :)

Thalanee · 21 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

I really liked this chapter. Glorfindel in elfling mode *snicker* that had me laughing. Arafinwe may complain a bit about our favourite reborn elves getting into trouble, but I think he actually enjoys their antics very much ;-) the bonfire under the moon was a wonderful touch... that almost makes me want to set out myself tonight (there´s even a lake close by) I always thought Aman and Valinor meant the same thing, but the way you used them they obviously mean something different? The ability to sense the presence of evil will be pretty useful for him in Middle Earth (Ringwraiths and all). Greetings Thalanee

Sunny · 21 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

It was _Nienna_ who prevented Lisselindë from sensing the cat-things?? *picks jaw off floor* I suppose the test here was whether she would trust that Glorfindel knew what he was doing. And failing it probably irks her – but hopefully it will also aid in her rehabilitation. And if _that_ won't, I suppose tutoring Glorfindel will ;-) As for Glorfindel – he didn’t actually know what he was doing – or rather, was sensing. He was just running on instinct. And now that instinct is to be honed into a weapon – which should be very useful when Glorfindel is back in Middle-Earth. The dinner was certainly different! And campfire food, especially if you catch it yourself, has its own special savour. I don’t suppose Glorfindel’s skill at such cooking was the reason why Ulmo also decided to invite himself to dinner, but then it might have provided a suitable excuse. ;-) And now Glorfindel will go off on his quests: The one suggested by the Valar to hone his ability to detect evil, and the one that is his own, and which he evidently isn’t going to talk to anybody about. Hmmm. I had a look in _The Tough Guide to Fantasyland_ on the subject of Quests and Quest Objects. I suppose that the ultimate Quest Object on this Quest is going to be for that rarest Quest Object of them all, namely Self-Knowledge. And it seems Glorfindel got started with Questly stuff a bit early - he has already made a Stew! :-D

6336 · 21 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

Hm, I wonder how much of that wish is Glorfindels and how much is the Valars? They are a devious bunch and not above taking advantage of a situation, if not Tourgon's grandson, how about one of his greatgrandson's and his sons?! Very neatly done Fiondil Muse! More please, Lynda

Sitara · 21 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

It seems to me that this chapter has just marked the turning point regarding Glorfindel's endeavour. He still doesn't know what happened to Earendil and his wish to look for him is very natural. Whom he will actually find..that's another story. "grin" Although Glorfindel never knew he had more audience than he had thought, said audience is very impressive for us, the readers. Tuor's coming to Gondolin, one of the most important events in the history of Arda? I think that's about Earendil's birth and his part during the War of Wrath, (not to mention he acting as a guardian while sailing every night until the End) in which case I totally agree with you. By the way, Tuor shouldn't have arrived in Aman by now? So, Nienna was the one meddling with Lisselinde's perceptions. No wonder that both Glorfindel and she were feeling like two pupils in a schoolroom, although I would say rather like a two guinea pigs inside a glass container. But, I have to say that swallowing your pride and annoyance and actually listening to the Valar is something worth to be done. I think both Glorfindel and Lisselinde do agree with me on this. "grin" I'd like to see Glorfindel interacting again with Orome, as I liked to see his interaction with Ulmo, as awkward seemed to be at first. And now..So, Findarato' sister and her gift to see evil in others."bristling" She does have this gift, of course......as long as she's not looking in the mirror. "Cheshire cat grin"

Larner · 21 March 2009 · Chapter 49: A Quest Conceived

Ah! He begins his long quest now as he prepares for the shorter one. A believe Eru is taking an active, quiet role in his preparation.

Rick · 17 March 2009 · Chapter 48: The Second Lesson

I haven't reviewed the last several chapters (mea culpa) but I've enjoyed all of them. This review covers since my last one (lazy, that's me). I really enjoy the promotion-as-punishment meme - been there, done (to me) that. No doubt Beleg & Sador will be getting their just due in time. Nice to see Aldarion's lessons on the great bow pay off for Glorfindel so quickly, too. I keep expecting one of these chapters to be titled "meanwhile, back at the ranch" or reasonable facsimile. Of course, now that Glorfindel is finally _thinking_ there's bound to be even more interesting developments. And one of my questions from a long way back has been answered. Keep up the good work, Fiondil!

Thalanee · 17 March 2009 · Chapter 48: The Second Lesson

Another wonderful chapter (hm... this is turning into a phrase... but I mean it!) I wonder why Lisselinde didn´t sense the saber- tooth cats? The wolves and the stag teaming up to fight creatures corrupted by Melkor was a nice touch, since they are both Yavanna´s creatures even though they are natural enemies. But I absolutely loved how Orome treated the wolves and the deer after the fight: that was so sweet. Glorfindel is a step closer to emotional maturity after this, I guess... and to greater wisdom. I can hardly wait for the next chapter! Greetings, Thalanee

Tari · 16 March 2009 · Chapter 48: The Second Lesson

This was a huge lesson for Glorfindel; one which he gracefully accepted. I think our dear elf just took a giant step forward on his road to recovery. Too bad no one else will know about it.

Ces · 16 March 2009 · Chapter 48: The Second Lesson

What a grand thing to have been a witness to - Orome and the Maiar fighting what I thought were wargs but were evil cats. No wonder Glorfindel was overwhelmed! And Lisselindë still has quite a bit to learn, doesn't she? Arrogance can be one's downfall after all. When will she learn? Loved reading this - it definitely took my breath away. Ces

Radbooks · 15 March 2009 · Chapter 48: The Second Lesson

Very nice! I loved the picture you painted of Orome and the Maiar fighting the 'big cats', but I'm glad I wasn't there to see it in person. :) I liked the deer and the wolves though and would love to see them... separately and in the wild somewhere! *grin* It was good for Glorfindel to finally have his eyes opened to the reality of who the Maiar are and what they can do, but I hope he doesn't become overwhelmed with that knowledge... he seemed okay though. It'll be interesting to see what happens now with Lisselinde... I have confidence in her ability to learn, but it's going to take some time. She's very set in her ways!

Larner · 15 March 2009 · Chapter 48: The Second Lesson

Our still rather arrogant Maia still has lessoons to learn. And Glorfindel has indeed learned something he needs as well. Excellent!

Sunny · 15 March 2009 · Chapter 48: The Second Lesson

Lisselindë evidently has a way to go before she is rehabilitated. She didn’t note the presence of the sabertooth cats – OK, she may simply not have been paying attention. Or she may have been listening on the wrong wavelength, or something. _Glorfindel_ sensed that something was Not As It Should Be, though. His reaction was predictable. He is, after all, a warrior through and through. Lisselindë’s reaction to Glorfindel, though, seemed to be on the order of , “What is that silly mirroanwi up to now?” or “Not _another_ of his crazy fits!”. In that context _her_ reaction made perfect sense. It must have been an unpleasant surprise for her to see Tiutalion and Nyéreser appear – with the bow and quiver Glorfindel had asked for – and then be told to stay behind – as Glorfindel had _also_ told her! :-o So Glorfindel doesn’t really feel dressed without something sharp-and-pointy on his person, does he? And I also suppose the Valar – and Maiar – wouldn’t want to embarrass him by making him leave out such an essential part of his wardrobe. ;-) I suppose the Maiar that Glorfindel has fought _could_ have puréed him if they had really wanted to – and if they had wanted a whole series of “little talks” starting with ones with Manwë and Námo. But it evidently is more sporting – and much more fun – to fight on the same level as Glorfindel. And the added bonus for Glorfindel would be that it would add to his skill as a warrior. It was interesting that you had both predator and prey fighting together against a common foe. If they perceived those creatures as some sort of natural disaster – like a forest fire – I suppose it would be logical enough – survival _always_ takes priority over unessentials – but slightly sugary nonetheless. Though not sugary enough to turn me off. And I liked Oromë’s treatment of both the wolves and the deer after the fight! I suspect that Glorfindel’s otornor are going to be the envy of both friends and – others – when their new cloaks arrive. Sabertooth fur!!! (And none for Glorfy, who actually _killed_ the critters???) I suppose that Glorfindel, by the time he arrives at the cottage, is almost hungry enough to devour one of those cats by himself. There is nothing that sharpens the appetite like a bit of exercise! And what is Lisselindë’s reaction to having to stay on the sidelines of this fight going to be, when a _mere elf_ was in the thick of it??

6336 · 15 March 2009 · Chapter 48: The Second Lesson

Lissalinde still needs to lose some of her arrognce, or maybe they should have given her to Finrod, he would sort her out in no time flat! Hm, smart wolves and deer, combining against a common, or not so common enemy! Pleased Glorfindel has some help, I don't think Namo would have been to happy to find him on his doorstep, again! Looks like Orome has some more hunting to do, just how did they get this close to Nienna's House? Well have one of my little cats on my lap helping to type this, Mayhem to be precise, Mischief is not a lap cat! More please, Lynda

ellie · 15 March 2009 · Chapter 48: The Second Lesson

That was...amazing. the desire to run with Orome and the wolves, the battle, the way the maiar fought and Glorfindel's reactions to and lessons from it all. Utterly amazing. It is fascinating that not only does Liss not even begin to comprehend the Children - the Children (i.e. Glorfindel) do not entirely understand themselves! Wow! I love your stories and your stories within stories. I don't always have time to review as some stories/chapters are printed, read piecemeal and left in the car or become art while waiting at the doctor's office so I forget to review, but I always enjoy what you write. I know you'd prefer to have an actual review for everything, but know it is all appreciated none the less.