Reviews (1,565)

6336 · 11 January 2009 · Chapter 39: Glorfindel Alone

Been thinking, maybe Glorfindel needs to be by himself but not alone. Maybe if there are one or two people around, not too close but within yelling distance he would do better? I am wondering if he has something to do, something to keep his hands busy while he does his thinking, he might do better, perhaps some jewelsmithing, he did enjoy himself, sort of, after all when he was with Mortander? Lynda

Hel · 11 January 2009 · Chapter 39: Glorfindel Alone

I really hope Glorfindel can find back to himself and can get over his self-doubt. Spending time with only himself as company will help him remember the quieter parts of his life again, as there must have been such times in Gondolin. And maybe come to term with his life, the Valar and the world in general. As giving Glorfindel leave to make mischief... Well, Nienna knows what she does. But I guess, that playing pranks was a part of the quieter times in Gondolin.

6336 · 11 January 2009 · Chapter 39: Glorfindel Alone

I can understand how Glorfindel feels, as he has never been truely alone the whole time he has been reborn, even when he was crawling around Ilmarin after the beating from Tulcaner and Company, he still had Mair with him, plus he was too busy trying to get somewhere to realise he was by himself! Now he is truely alone, even Tiutalion has gone off to do his thing and he is finally trying to figure out how to handle it. Being alone is scary. As they say, be carefull what you wish for, you may get it!(Sorry, couldn't resist it!) More please, Lynda

Sunny · 11 January 2009 · Chapter 39: Glorfindel Alone

It seems that Glorfindel has some aggression – and a lot of frustration - to let out. At least if his behavior on the beach is anyting to go by. And Nienna – invisibly keeping watch – is worried. Considering his volatile state, I suppose she has good reason to be. (And as for Nienna keeping watch – Glorfindel was after all promised no _Maiar_ hanging around in an unclad state) And here Nienna comes during dinner and just short of _orders_ Glorfy to get into trouble! Does she really know what she is letting herself in for? And Tiutalion is offering to be his partner-in crime for whatever Glorfindel might come up with. And Glorfindel can be quite creative… :-) The interlude with the deer was sweet. And the end – with Glorfindel wondering how he is going to survive a week – I suppose he just needs the right sort of nudge. And Tiutalion offering to be Glorfindel’s partner in mischief is about as broad a hint as we can get, I suppose. And getting into … interesting situations … with another person is about as good a way to build fellowship and trust as can be found. *rubs hands, grinning madly* And what Glorfy might do with a _Maia_ to help just _has_ to be good!! *large Cheshire Cat grin appears in midair, as reader contemplates author’s stories _Chaos Theory_ and _One Night at the Laughing Vala_. Grin grows progressively larger as reader thinks about Stuff That Can Go Wrong (or right)* Heh. I can just about see a ticked-off Nienna, standing in front of the large pile of rubble that used to be her mansion, handing Glorfindel and Tiutalion a small brush and dustpan each, telling them to get started on cleaning up the mess they made. No, I don’t really think they will go that far, but it is an amusing image, isn’t it? ;-)

Agape4Gondor · 11 January 2009 · Chapter 39: Glorfindel Alone

About all I can say is - oh my...............

Larner · 11 January 2009 · Chapter 39: Glorfindel Alone

He reminds me of the typical teenager--surrounded by things to do and totally bored, as socializing now defines them.

Sitara · 11 January 2009 · Chapter 39: Glorfindel Alone

Well, apparently, Glorfindel's first dilemma is how to kill some time (quite a lot of it) without dying first! Of boredom, no less. "laugh" Anyway, serious again "best poker face", all my sympathy goes to Glorfindel this chapter. And to you for knowing how to portray his boredom, exasperation and fear. Indeed, it's not a light thing to not know what purpose you may have (especially when others around you found this, more or less)in this world, and the fact that the Valar themselves are as clueless as you are is not very much encouraging. Or...perhaps they became more wise, since it's canon, I think, yhat everytime the Valar force their good intentions upon the Children, usually occurs a small disaster. Or a greater one. "fierce scowl" Sorry. "putting herself together" Nicely done caughing and writting down those little things which every exasperated person does when he finds all by himself in a lonely place. Checking around the cottage (congratulations for the time spent perusing the books!), yelling and running to and fro in frustration, flawless job, Fiondil. A positive note concerning both Namo and Nienna. Whatever their flaws, I like their concern for Glorfindel, despite his rudeness towards them. They understand that not knowing what to do for receiving some answers is very, very hard for Glorfindel. And after all that happened, they cannot quite blame him for his lack of trust. Huh..at least he won't need to wait for the end of Arda to get those answers. And Tiutalion..is truly a marvel. Perhaps Nyereser is his brother in Iluvatar's Thought? I would like it. And something keep pointing towards Glorfindel's warrior abilities. As he would be called to use them once more...Vorondil's reaction..was exactly as I expected to be. I don't blame him , his uncertainty was mostly expected (I personally would have reacted far worse and I like to believe about myself I am an adult "snicker") but Aldundil really worries me. He has already lost his wife and now...what about him? Next time we'll see perhaps if Glorfindel manages to keep his sanity during his holiday to the seashore. Overall, a very good job with this chapter. Refreshing and insightful. P.S. A word for a wonderful writer and beta. Some of the stories written, betaed or inspired by you, Alassiel, were the most meaningful things I've ever read. One especially.

Tari · 7 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

Very interesting. Why do I feel that there is more in store for Glorfindel that merely staying in a cottage by himself for a week?

Kitty · 5 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

Uh, that was not the best idea of these Maiar to turn up so suddenly and threateningly and frighten poor Vorondil to death! Tiutalion is right, their definition of fun leaves something to be desired! Glad Nienna and Námo saw it in the same way. See what the promise of a few ginger bisquits is doing for Vorondil! Only a pity that’s not likely to work for Glorfindel, too ;-) As for our favourite balrog-slayer, he made it very clear what he thought of all this. But as much as he is acting the elfling sometimes, it is telling that he doesn’t shy away from facing down a bunch of Maiar in this way. Whatever his failings are, he is certainly no coward! And I hope the Valar listen to him – no more manipulations! To me it is too obvious that he’s not taking that well. They might have more success when they are more open and straightforward. That bit with Eärendil is a bit worrying. When the Valar aren’t the ones to keep the barrier up, but Eru himself, then that’s confusing – I thought he wasn’t too happy with the whole idea from the beginning? So why does he now continue it after the Valar have given up these barriers? Well, the cottage doesn’t sound too bad, particularly with no Maiar guards around. I hope it helps Glorfindel to finally have some time for himself, and without feeling being watched and he’s not feeling trapped instead.

4merfan · 5 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

ur glor reads like a teenage brat 4 the last 2 many chaps he needs 2 grow up

Sunny · 5 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

What _were_ those Maiar thinking, scaring Vorondil like that?? _Were_ they thinking at all? The scoldings they got were certainly _well_ deserved! From Tiutalion first, then Námo and Nienna, and then _Glorfindel_ added his bit! (Go, Glorfy!!) The way to get Vorondil out of the tent was certainly … inspiring. Ginger biscuits … I have a _lovely_ recipe for that – and I may even have all the ingredients – including the stem ginger in syrup! I think I can feel a faint desire for fresh ginger cookies creeping up on me. As soon as my immune system crushes this invasion of viruses, and I get my appetite back I may even do something about it, despite the massive sugar overdose I am going to get out of it… So Glorfindel gets a chance of a bit of privacy – including the guarantee of _no_ unclad Maiar hanging around watching his every move! That will be good for him, I think. With all the stress he has gone through in the year since his reembodiment, he really, seriously, badly _needs_ a breathing space. And I really hope he will be able to unwind – at least a little. (But then this is Glorfindel. And I am not going to lay any sort of bet with him in this state!) If it were me – and pre-Christmas madness followed by Christmas excitement, followed by New Year’s celebrations (and add to that those pesky viruses as well as four footed visitors – O, my poor, abused immune system!) makes me feel about as frazzled as Glorfy does by now – you would need to use physical force – and probably also a fair amount of either magic or truly out-there Science Fictional technology (though according to Clarke’s Law those two things are the same!) to pry me out of that cottage! And if access to Nienna’s library were part of the deal… or merely a guarantee of power for my iLiad or laptop, so that I could get at my ebooks … heh! All Bets Are Off! ;-) Well, if Glorfindel is uninterested in books, I am sure that somebody would be willing to hunt up a pair of practice swords and armour, and play with him for a while. Just in case the peace and quiet alone is not enough to get him to unwind. :-)

Larner · 4 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

It seems that Vorondil, as with White's Merlin, keeps growing younger--from late adolescence to full childhood. But good to see the growth in all of the--barring Vorondil, of course. Now, to see Glorfindel find himself in all of this.

Independence1776 · 4 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

*raises eyebrows* Those Maiar... I wouldn't want to be in their shoes. I'm glad that Vorondil is more easily cheered up with the thought of treats once he found out the real reason the Maiar were there. He's still a kid. "Instead, he gave the Maiar who were his own People a hard look, a look mirrored by Nienna, and the four ellyn were treated to the sight of seeing several Maiar squirm." Those Maiar deserve it! "Glorfindel, on hearing that, scowled. 'Well, concentrate on this,' he said, his tone dark and threatening as he faced the Maiar. 'We were in no danger of running away. I was told we were expected here and here is where we were going. Next time you presume to think you know our minds, I suggest you consult a higher authority before you act. It might actually save us all a lot of trouble.'" Somehow, I get the feeling that he may be talking to the Valar as well... "'Enough of your manipulations,' he said. 'I’ve put up with it this long, but no longer. Continue to treat me as you have and you do so at your peril.'" Uh-oh. The Valar had better tiptoe around him until they're back in his good graces. I *really* don't want to see Glorfindel rebel again. I hope a good night's sleep is all Vorondil needs! Oh, dear. Why would Eru keep that barrier in place? Finrod's response will be interesting. "They found Glorfindel futilely beating on the front door, which was locked, and cursing roundly. 'Glorfindel,' Nienna said, 'stop abusing that poor door and come back into the cloister.'" *snickers* Why do I have the feeling that door has recieved a lot of abuse over the years? "When the ellon just stood there, his head leaning against the door, [...]" This image is heartrending. "Not far from here is a small cottage where you can stay, if you like. You will have complete privacy there. No Maia will be lurking about and all will approach in fana if they need to speak to you. Would you like that? My only stipulation is that you take the evening meal with me, otherwise you may do as you wish." Ooh... That sounds like something *I'd* enjoy, especially if I hadn't a moment to myself like Glorfindel hasn't. I hope he stays longer than a week- he truly needs it- and I also hope he talks to Námo. ~ Indy

Radbooks · 4 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

Oh, interesting that Glorfindel can't see Earendil and it's not because of the Valar. Although, why they would block him from it anymore wouldn't make sense either. Hmmm, an interesting development and while I have my own thoughts on this, I think I'll keep them to myself. *grin* I'm glad that he decided to take Nienna and Namo's 'invitation' to stay in the cottage for a time. He truly does need some time alone to digest all that has happened to him. He's been so busy that he hasn't taken that time to truly reflect on things and I know from experience that it's important to do that from time to time... of course, the Valar haven't made that particularly easy for him either. :) I'm looking forward to Finrod's reaction to all of this!

Agape4Gondor · 4 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

Sometimes, if one did not know better, it would seem that Glorfindel acts too much the part of a wounded Elfling... Yet, when one considers what he was before he returned from Death... and what he has been through since... one deems his reactions valid. I'm glad he'll have a bit of a rest - I hope his 'subcreator' is going to give him a bit of rest?????

6336 · 4 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

Ah, just what Glorfindel needs some time to himself, nobody to bother him and tell him what to do or when to do it! Just hope his water boiling efforts have improved some or he will be one hungry ellon by evening! Sometimes I think the Mair are just like overgrown elflings, they love to play tricks on people! More please, Lynda

Sitara · 4 January 2009 · Chapter 38: Hail the Unconquering Heroes!

As I understand so far, Glorfindel's particular case manages to get a Vala or two (or perhaps all of them)more and more bewildered, as the time passes and they cannot find anymore reasons and explanations. Apparently, at the moment, His plan with Glorfindel cannot be foreseen even by the Valar, which is not much as a consolation for Glorfindel either. "smile". His reaction is very natural and understandable and my personal guess is that Nienna's offer is so much as a try for the Valar as it is for their unwilling guest. "We'll have to see what happens next", and that is applicable to Glorfindel, the Valar, and of course, us, the Readers. And now for my favorite part..As funny as it was (no doubt about it) the image of several Maiar (maybe in their battle gear?)appearing suddenly and giving poor Vorondil the fright of his life, I'm rather concerned in this matter. True, Vorondil made his choice with Nyereser's help but in my opinion all this matter is far from finished. I think he would have to deal somehow with the aftermath of that choice and prove in some manner that Nienna's decision to release him from her care is the right one. I'm very eager to see how Prince Findarato would handle now his thrall and how Vorondil would gain back his master's trust. I'm also concerned about poor Aldundil's fate. Especially when in Lorien resides now a certain newly Reborn. Very good job with this chapter, which in my opinion was meant to set the stage for further events. A special mention for Tiutalion (he certainly deserves his name, although for the moment Glorfindel may disagree "grin") and Nyereser (having him introduced is presently raising the stakes incredibily high). Needless to say, but I'm going to say it though. "wry grin" I can't wait to read more of this awesome story and, once again, a brilliant job. "rubbing hands"

Larner · 3 January 2009 · Chapter 37: Comparing Notes

Further easing and correction--and reassurance that they are indeed beloved as is right and proper. And at last they appreciate their "host" and who he has been. And alas for Macalaure. Interesting not even these know the disposition of Idril and Tuor.

Tari · 29 December 2008 · Chapter 37: Comparing Notes

Well, one mystery has been solved. I have a feeling Ingwion will heal a little faster than Glorfindel who's stubborness is getting in his way.

6336 · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 37: Comparing Notes

It is very easy to tell someone to let go of the past, it is very hard to do so,if all you have is the past. Glorfindel has not had enough time to make good memories to replace those of Gondolin. I think he needs to spend some time by himself, away from everybody, even the Valar to come to terms with what has happened to him. Ingwion has had more life experiance and will be better able to let the past go. I think the Valar are pushing Glorfindel to mature at a faster rate than he is comfortable with, hopefully they can back off a bit and let him be for a while. Hope this make s sense, More please, Lynda

Independence1776 · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 37: Comparing Notes

In regards to Glorfindel's memory: I can't believe I was so stupid as to forget something like that. I reread the first few chapters of EI2 because of your reply and started headdesking. "Beleriand was both more and less than what we expected; more, because it was beautiful in a way Aman was not, though I cannot tell you why." I have my ideas, mainly that it's because everything was transient and precious because death could come with the next skirmish, but they may or may not be accurate. "Less, because it was already occupied by our sundered kin, who were doing quite well without us, thank you very much." *snickers* Interesting about Tuor and Idril- I had been wondering about them in the EI 'verse. "'I will decide whom I will fear and whom I will not.' Glorfindel retorted coldly, sounding more like the Elf-lord that he once was, his expression grim, his stance that of a warrior about to go into battle." Eep. "'Be nice or I’ll make you regret it,' Ingwion replied and the utter seriousness of his tone gave Glorfindel pause." Finally something does! "I could never figure out how they thought to escape detection surrounded by an army of Maiar." At that point, I sometimes think they didn't care if they lived or not. They just wanted the whole thing over with. "At any rate, I continue to wear these braids in honor of the elf Macalaurë could have been — indeed, should have been — had his atar not twisted his destiny for a bauble." And that is part of why Maglor is my favorite character- he had so much potential. "Someday, it is our hope that Macalaurë will forgive himself and seek healing here in Aman." I think all of us hope that. "Yet, neither of you can grow in the way you were meant to until you leave both your anger and your Past behind." Which will be hard. "When you leave this vale, go to Lady Nienna’s; she’s expecting you... all of you." Uh-oh. Why do I suddenly feel sorry for her? Wonderful chapter, and I loved learning just that little much more about Nyéreser.

GoldenFlower · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 37: Comparing Notes

Yay, no Houdini-horses pawing through snow on the front lawn to distract me from my review writing this time. xD. Munderful chapter. But let me get this strait: Nyereser is one of the Maiar who took on the guise of an elf and fought in Maglor's troops and couselled him. Correct? Eeep. I need to re-read the Silmarilion. Here I was, thinking that the stealing of the Silmarils, etc, happened late second age. *blink* Anyhow. Loved the chapter, what with the seems-to-be-regressing Glorfindel and the little story-telling session between the two. Can't wait to see what happens nexxtt. :D ~GF

Agape4Gondor · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 37: Comparing Notes

Well - that was a good chapter indeed. Much learned - though I'm sure the Valar are still concerned about our Glorfindel - Ingwion seems to be coming along quite well now....

Naine · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 37: Comparing Notes

And another Xmass present? How nice! Devourded lovingly. "I will decide whom I will fear and whom I will not." ...Glorfindel nodded, never taking his eyes off the Maia. "... ...Then he sheathed his sword, relaxing his stance somewhat though both Ingwion and Nyéreser noticed his hand never strayed far from the sword’s hilt. ... Very Glorfi like. He can act like five eyears old, but in a case of danger he is immediately his old warrior self. Tulkas was right when he pointed to him, that he is a warrior (and a bait)

Kitty · 28 December 2008 · Chapter 37: Comparing Notes

I’m glad Glorfindel and Ingwion finally had the chance to talk about their unique experiences, and that finally someone told Glorfindel more about Eärendil. Things are beginning to become clearer now, not only for the two elves, but for me as well, why everything happened, and Nyéreser’s appearance helped in that. At least for me – how much it did for Glorfindel remains to be seen, but I hope he now can really let go of his anger, even if it takes a little while. Considering much happened to him in the short time since his rebirth, I think it's not so surprising that he has more difficulties coming to terms with his problems than Finrod or Ingwion or Aldundil. Someday, it is our hope that Macalaurë will forgive himself and seek healing here in Aman. You know, that is a happy end I’d love to read myself. Maglor is the one of the Fëanorionnath I’ve always liked more or less, and I think he had the worst fate – instead of dying and being oblivious in Mandos’ Halls, he lived to suffer terribly from his guilt and shame for millennia. And I have the feeling Nyéreser would be the first to offer Maglor his help, if he ever returns to Aman. I’m really beginning to like him; and his reason to wear the warrior braids was touching. Hmmm ... so they are *all* invited to Lady Nienna’s? I hope the place survives these six ellyn ;)