Reviews (648)

6336 · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

Yes, I think one would have had to be just a little bit insane to have uttered that Oath and to have carried the consequences of it for as long as Maglor did would have a profound affect. That he did not go completely insane or manage to do away with himself is a testament to his strength of character and Namo's intervention! I think of all the Valar Namo has to have the hardest job, he just has to break out every now and then. Having to Judge most of those fear coming to him has got to be very wearing. No wonder his sense of humor is questionable at times! I do like Namo, would still like to see him in pink one of these days! Yes, this meeting will make things easier for all, Valar and Elves! Huggs, Lynda

Larner · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

Good to see the actual oath balanced by the renunciation--both needed to be reviewed equally. And they needed that period of private communication with the Valar.

Monalex · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

Great chapter!!! And a good point you have about the children not having any other option... although I think that ones they start to interact with other children they will soon adapt to their new surroundings. Also I think it's worth mentioning that Estel is truly Feanaro's grandson, hahahaha with that temper of his. Another interaction I liked was that of Aule with Maglor because it shows that he has forgiven his former apprentice :D Ohhh also I've been wondering do your one shots from Tales from Vairë's Loom, are they connected to this story or should I take them as separate entities??? This because I now remember a story called Beyond the Galvorn Door, in which you mention that only the twins went through Judgment and that they were reborn residing with their brother Maglor in Aman but not in Tirion making it seem as if they are not allowed in Tirion at all. In contrast in this story you mention that all his brothers are reborn at the time of Maglor´s return and that Arafinwe has forgiven him and his family and would welcome them in the Palace again. Loved this chapter and am waiting impatiently for the next one :)

Sunny · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

Hmmm. I would have thought Maglor would have had more to do with Manwë, since he's a bard after all. Though since he crafts his own instruments, I'm sure he picked up a fair amount of useful knowledge at Aulë's place. So the other Valar popped in for a visit - including the Original Goth himself. I do wonder what sort of Goth you see Námo as - there is a handy guide to various Goth (stereo)types here: http://trellia.deviantart.com/gallery/25271332 It sounds as if Maglor's brothers have been giving the Dynamic Duo a run for their money in being the most chaotic inhabitants Mandos has ever seen. Perhaps they by now have proven to be the ones who have given Námo the most grey hairs, ever. They are, after all, their father's sons! ;) I loved the way Arthlion stood up for Maglor! :D Those kids really need some young Amanian friends to get into trouble with. I'm sure Valinor won't seem so dreary once they have some local friends who know all the fun things to do. Especially the things they aren't allowed to do!

Tari · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

Maglor redemed, forgiven and surrounded by his loving family and friends. A bright future lies ahead for all of them. "Sighs" I love it.

Kaylee Arafinwiel · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

Atto, I know I haven't reviewed anything in a long time, but rest assured I've still been reading. I've been so swept up in Maglor's story that I haven't found a space to breathe! Oddly enough, the Valar's appearance here provided it. I especially loved Namo and Nienna's antics, of course. I must say, it's a good thing they only had eight Valar and not fourteen to deal with at the moment (can you imagine what Tulkas would have done? *lol*) I love the families you've created for Maglor and the Harthadrim, and I am so very happy that Gloredhel and their children stuck with Maglor after all. As a child of divorce I know how painful it is to feel that one's father will never be forgiven. Luckily Maglor's crimes were renounced and Gloredhel could forgive him for them. (And, after all, my adar may be a fool but my Atto is not... :) *love*) Estel reminds me of my sister. :P I'm so glad that the Valar addressed the children's questions and treated them as worthy of answering rather than just troublemaking. The Valar are truly understanding and compassionate to all, and I love them for it. :) I wonder what would happen if I tried to sell them some knives o.o (I just earned my first promotion with Vector, selling Cutco products. But I wouldn't sell the knives to any crazy Elves. *nods* Just sensible ones. The ellith might like some kitchen products, maybe? Rhyselle and Edlyn like theirs. :) Maybe you would like? I can show you if you want to see.) Tye-melin tenn'Ambar-metta, Atto! Kaylee

Fantasia · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

This was very emotional, I'm, once again, in tears...this going to be a long journey for everybody, including us, crying like little kids. The end was beautiful. My favorite part, is how fiercely loyal is Arthalion, in the darkest moment, he didn't hesitate, he could stand along Maglor anytime, it was priceless. Now that I think about it, the young ones are right, they came to Valinor because they didn't have any other options, and so far, they are not feeling at home. And Namo and his fashion sense, I loved it.

Kevana · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

...AT a forge. At a forge. Not in a forge. *snort* Also, meant to say, Maglor did so darn well with enduring that. I can only imagine what he was feeling when they all showed up like that. I'm glad his family was able to look past their own shock and surround him. -Kev

Kevana · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

And somewhere in Aman, Finrod shook his head and rolled his eyes without quite knowing why he did it. :P I hadn't even thought about those kids perhaps not wanting to leave the only home they'd known. On the other hand, I can't imagine their families would ever have left them behind, so it would've thrown a wrench in the works one way or another. But then again, maybe it's less about their actually wanting to be in Mithlond and more about not being sure what their options are in this new place. Get them out on a ship/in a forge/on a horse and I bet they'll figure it out for themselves, given time. But then it makes sense they'd perhaps be a bit more naturally wanderlust-ful, given their parentage and where they were born. Mm-hmm, Alien Overlords. They just couldn't stand it any more once the Harthadrim were within shouting distance, could they? LOL! But it's good they got the initial meeting out of the way in a more relaxed environment. Have I mentioned how much I love your Nienna? It bears repeating. I love your Nienna. And Varda danced to his music, aww! That's so sweet. And bless Glóredhel for...well, for being Glóredhel. This chapter felt like a very bizarre sleepover, in a good way. Thanks for the great update, Fiondil! Have a wonderful week. -Kevana

Cairistiona · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

*flailing about for words* *and tissues* Goodness, Maglor before the Valar was all I hoped for and more, for coming so completely without warning. I felt like screaming and running away just like poor Maglor when they all appeared like that! But backing up to the section before the Valar's rather stunning (not to mention colorful) home invasion, I was smiling as the young ones expressed their displeasure at being dragged along when they might have rather stayed home. Estel especially reminded me of my own outspoken and opinionated daughter. His "precious pet Elves" line made me chuckle... I can completely see his point. I was expecting more dialogue with the children about everything, and perhaps that's why Manwë's sudden appearance caught me completely by surprise. And then when the rest of them showed up, I nearly fell out of my chair. I love how Aulë comforted Maglor... and hovered over him to make sure he didn't flee again. The way you describe him grabbing Maglor's elbow made me chuckle. Hearing that oath again was brutal, but it underscored how great a sin making the Oath truly was, for those words set the course of all that followed, a course that lay completely outside the will and purpose of Eru. It brought about consequences and heartache that reverberated all the way to the closing of the Third Age and beyond. Great indeed is Eru's mercy that Maglor's renouncement and remorse were accepted in the end. Now I suppose it remains to be seen if others extend the same forgiveness. Really, really terrific chapter.

Celeth · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

Finally Maglor and the Harthadrim get to meet the Valar. I kept wondering how long they would be able to resist making an appearance. (And by the way, Estel truly is a grandson of Feanor with that attitude haha). Its a relief to know that things have now been settled between Maglor and the Valar. That was quite a speech by Lord Namo (I just realized I've been missing him; I need to read EI again!) Still looking forward to the meeting of Maglor and Elrond and their respective families - and Maglor's family of course. And I wonder where they will settle...are they going to find a secluded island after all?

shirebound · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

You have repaid your debt many times over in service to your fellow Elves I like that very much. What a powerful experience for all of them.

CaitlinRennes · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 41: The Halls of Oromë

Just awesome, sitting here with tears in my eyes! Thank you Fiondil

Fadesintothewest · 24 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

This chapter was a bit melancholy, though to be expected. It is always strange seeing your childhood home, if you have been gone from it for a time, to think how much it meant and to see how life has taken you so far from that. I was really struck by Maglor's sense of nostalgia, added to the culture shock, to being on display as it were. Totally understandable. You really are ratcheting up the suspense! He has to wait to see his family, all his brothers reborn. What a meeting it will be, so good for all of them. I hope his children get an opportunity to see aspects of their father they had not considered. Maybe this will help them adjust a bit better. Great stuff.

Monalex · 22 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

Yeahhhh So Maglor's whole family is already reborn???? That's great, going to be a very special meeting... also I would love for Estel to be apprenticed by Aule, both of them would enjoy it mightily playing in th smithy, Russandol with Orome and Miriel with Ulmo jajajajajaja, the Valar would be terribly delighted to apprentice this grandchildren of Feanaro with such skills and intelligence, making it sweeter that they are always ready to use them for the benefit of others. So from your comments below to the others saying that Feanaro is not yet reborn, I'm guessing Finwe is still not reborn too, for he would not be willing to be reborn if his son is not... and grandma Miriel is still dead too or did you decide for her to be reborn???? I somehow can't see Finwe being reunited with Indis, I have always thought that he never did love her as much as he did Miriel or even his son Feanaro and that she deserved better, I would prefer for him to stay with his first wife in death if that is still her choice... Ohhh will we see Celeborn and Galadriels daughter???? And will Elrond be meeting his foster father and his family???? I can't wait for the next chapter!!!! I may not review as much as a I should (this is my first review I'm ashamed to say), but I'm always reading.... :D

Laer · 22 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

So glad that Mandos has released his brothers, perhaps some day Namo will release his father. But I am willing to bet not for a very long time. Formal dinners have got to be the bane of any free spirit. which fork do you use for what meal, don't place your knife like that, or my favorite "we do not slurp we sip". Yeah I'm 3 and you have no idea how many strokes they had when I got bored and started to do somersaults in my dress while barefoot. Or when I burped. (It was a "married to relative" that is no longer married into the family. Thank goodness) Maedhros flipping his hand around and shoving it in everyone's face. That would have been hilarious to see. I am sure that the others had a good natured laugh about it with him. :) it was a nice calm time for them. It will be interesting to see what happens afterwards as I am sure that not everyone will be as according as the ones they have met so far have been.

Celeth · 21 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

Maglor's family has been released from Mandos? Including Maedhros? And who else, I wonder. There's a whole story (and more than one) there. I hope you will have time to write it sometime. Looking forward to the judgment...

obsidianj · 21 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

Oh, man. The formal dinner must have been trying for the Harthadim youngsters. Do they even know how to behave at table at such a feast? And all these formalities... I think Orome was wise to leave them alone for a night. It is too much too fast. So, Maglor's family is re-born. His father, too? Or just his brothers. Loved the bit about Maedhros waving his hand around. Must be something to discover that you have a hand again.

obsidianj · 21 June 2013 · Chapter 39: Tirion-on-Túna

Maglor's breakdown was to be expected. As he said, he never thought to see his hometown again, and just seeing it all and meeting people must be traumatic. Although, so far everyone has been friendly. I love rebellious Estel. He has to adjust to a lot. I don't think he has any idea who or what his father was/is. He heard the stories, but now they become reality and that is quite different.

Kevana · 21 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

The first few opening paragraphs of this struck me ferociously. How long had it been since he looked on that orchard? How many things had changed in the outer world? Entire Ages come and gone. And yet he returns and finds it unchanged on the outside, but completely different on the inside. Not unlike himself perhaps. That sudden parallel caught me off-guard and, wow. It also makes you realize just what it must be like for Elves and their immortal lives, that he could return and remember so many details after, I'm guessing, tens of thousands of years? Yet it's the simple little things he remembers, too, and maybe that says even more. It really calls into play that entire concept of their memory structure and tendencies. Also it's really poignant. :P Over the course of reading your stories it's become my fervent opinion that Finrod makes everything better and, like jello, there is always room for Finrod. And here we see him in his natural environment, making everything better. Of course he'd understand that Maglor was probably too afraid to ask about his family's whereabouts, and simply stepped up to fill in the blanks. Also, I giggled at him being the stern adult to a vanity of impatient Valar. I can just imagine him scolding them and telling them to stay out of it and leave Maglor and the Harthadrim alone for five blessed minutes. He's like a translator/diplomat between the Elves and the Ainur, as much as he was between the Elves and Men. So his family's Reborn then. Like one of the other reviewers I'm a bit surprised but happy! I guess this is later in the timeline than I had imagined, just trying to mentally put it in perspective. Of course it wouldn't have been as much fun (heartbreaking fun) if they weren't Reborn yet and we didn't get that real reunion that Maglor deserves. And given that they're Reborn it can't be anything but a clean slate reunion. I imagine death would do that even to the Fëanorians. Arthalion's really come into his own. It's so good to see him not only long recovered from what he went through but grown into such a wise and caring person. Same with Denethor. I love that you wrote about Oromë and Vána's mansion, I don't think we've seen your take on it before! And love the mention of Herendil and family. Ahaha, dressing up's not so bad when trying to impress the ladies, huh, Estel? And the idea of Fëanor's grandson coming home to work with Aüle, oh ouch, my heart. Ouuuch. By the way, I think we found Manwë's truck. Have a great weekend and thank you for the fantastic chapter! -Kevana

Fantasia · 21 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

Well, until Monday then. So his family is reborned already, that is good, also I doubt that Feanor is. I can't wait for him to see his Mother. Everything is so splendid that it is a little unsettling. For all the beauties of Valinor, it sounds so constricted, so enclosed and timeless, slow. I can see why the Noldors wished to leave, or it is maybe my Human spirit, I think that we are born adventurous and conquistadors.

Sunny · 21 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

Lovely, peaceful chapter here - i suppose it's meant to give us a "breather" between two more excitement-filled chapters? Young Russandol definitely need a couple of Amanian friends with whom he can get into some trouble... ;) Though perhaps Estel don't mind the finery quite as much when he sees how pretty Ivorwen is in her new gown. :) About the Harthadrim finding a nice, isolated island of their own - I've been thinking a bit off and on about Arda and Arda-in-the-10th-dimension. The latter is supposed to be more or less a carbon copy of the former, isn't it? That is at least the impression I got from the Wars of the Valar. So, does Arda-in-the-10th-dimension have other continents than Valinor? You haven't written anything about that, but I suppose that if you need Elves in Valinor in the 10th dimension to go exploring, you still have that option open. :) So Maglor's brothers have been reborn? I was a bit surprised at that, I had not really expected most of them to be Reborn until near the Dagor Dagorath - and I'd guess that this means this story is AU with respect to your other stories that mention the fates of the Fëanorionnath. The image of Maedhros running around Lórien waving his restored hand under everyone's noses must have been too amusing to resist, though! And I really loved the way Finrod described the Valar as impatient elflings. (Well, he's had a lot of experience with interfering Valar, so I guess it's reasonable he would be able to describe them like that!) I also giggled a bit over the way Amarië and Glóredhel came over and hauled their husbands out of the corner where said husbands had been sitting drinking their wine and gossiping, and hauled them over to the dance floor instead. Males are the same everywhere, it seems!

Larner · 21 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

Bless Finrod for his care for them, and particularly for Maglor. And I rejoice that Maedhros has his hand once more! Excellent. Now, for the children sleeping on the flets will be a new experience!

Cairistiona · 21 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

Such a peaceful delight, this chapter. The poignant moments were lovely--Maglor in his room for the first time in ages, Maglor asking after his mother, and Maglor simply seeing it all again for the first time in so very long. I loved that they finally played dress up. :) I can just imagine how handsome Maglor must have looked in his finery, and how beautiful he must have looked dancing. *iz crushing a little* And you gave me a couple of good chuckles, the first with the picture of Maedhros running around waving his hand in everyone's faces, and the second, Arthalion's "We look like an invasion" line. The descriptions of the Valar's homes made me want to book my own See the Valar's Homes tour. And Olórin! Testy as ever! Maglor might not be looking forward to the meeting with the Valar, despite Roimendel's assurances, but I definitely am.

someone · 21 June 2013 · Chapter 40: The Road to Valmar

For the last few chapters (about from the time they arrived in Valinor): I think the worst problem is the cultural shock, the Harthadrim are democratic and independent and now they are thrown into a world full of royalty and social differences. It must be hard to see how differently the people live, for example. It's nice that Maglor has at least one brother alive. I can just imagine Maedhros running around and showing others that he has a hand! Maglor has been a bit self-centered lately, it's good that someone finally pointed it out. Oh, and happy Midsummer (even if it is not celebrated where you live)!