The Journey Home by Fiondil

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Laer · 27 May 2013 · Chapter 33: Journey to the Sea

It would appear that Glóredhel is the voice of reason for him. Here is hoping he remembers to follow it and not the pretty jewel. ;) My one and only complaint is that these chapters end way too soon. Siiiggghhh. I need to learn to savor these chapters instead of inhale them.

Author's reply

Sorry about that Laer. The chapters are always as long as they need to be. At least you can always return to them at a later date and savor them to your heart's content. We will see how Maglor resolves all this in the next chapter. Thanks for reviewing. It's appreciated.

Laer · 25 May 2013 · Chapter 32: Moving On to Mithlond

I would offer Maglor food and shelter for singing a few songs. And my car. And my neighbors car. (it is a bit more sportier than mine) but if he is all about the comfort than he can have my husbands. I'm sure he won't mind :) So the harp is done and now he needs to go to the sea. wonder if his singing is gong to "call" for their ride? Or will it bring on the healing that he so badly needs to do? Either or would be good.

Author's reply

LOL! I'm sure Maglor would appreciate your kind offers, Laer, and I'm sure many readers feel as you do. As for what happens next when they reach the sea, remains to be seen, but I promise that I will not drag this part of the story out. We will see how Maglor deals with the Silmaril and arrives at some kind of resolution in the next couple of chapters. Thanks for taking the time to leave a review. I greatly appreciate it.

obsidianj · 25 May 2013 · Chapter 32: Moving On to Mithlond

The winter finally ends. It is good that they don't despair at the tasks that lie before them. I have the feeling it is nearly too much they want to accomplish in one short summer. Especially with all the time involved just to get from point A to point B.

Author's reply

Well, we will have to see how things go with them, obsidian. Their goals are ambitious, but I think doable. They know that they won't accomplish all that they wish to do in a single season but they will make a good start. Thanks for commenting. It's greatly appreciated.

obsidianj · 25 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

I love Maglor's ruminations about forgiving oneself. It is important for his healing to do just that. But it is not easy and there is no simple way to come to terms with ones actions. Is he punishing himself by denying music? It seems to me music is an integral part of him. Not singing and playing does look like a punishment to me. I know how I feel if I can't sing for a while...

Author's reply

Hi obsidian. Forgiving oneself is important for everyone, but it isn't easy. You may be right that Maglor is somehow punishing himself by denying his music. Hopefully, though, he will come to acceptance and reclaim that part of him again soon. Thanks for reviewing. I really appreciate it.

Larner · 24 May 2013 · Chapter 32: Moving On to Mithlond

They do have a good start here, at least--an apparently mostly sound building to start with, the forge in the site of the public stable to rely on, the kiln found, and the plan to see the Sea, or what can be seen of it. I find I like it! Sorry about Monday's apparent nonsense response. But days of significant events were of great interest to the Master. In first assigning the birthday for Bilbo and Frodo, he chose what is the autumnal equinox according to OUR calendar. Aragorn was born and later died on the spring equinox according to THEIR calendar. Sam's birthday of April sixth, being the Elves' New Year, makes it significant, and more so when the mallorn is known to bloom on that date as well--of COURSE an Elven tree will bloom first on the Elves' New Year. They started the Quest on Christmas of OUR calendar, just before the winter solstice of THEIR calendar. Sam and Rosie were married on the first anniversary after the coronation of Aragorn, while Elanor was born on the new New Year on the second anniversary of the fall of Barad-dur. I love seeing how the Master's mind works!

Author's reply

It is a good start, Larner, and they will hopefully thrive in their new home while they prepare to continue on to Aman. We will see their journey to the Sea and what comes of it in the next few chapters. As for the calendar thing, it's very interesting to see how Tokien's mind worked in that regard, and the significance of things. For instance, you fail to mention that the Fall of Barad-dûr takes place on the Feast of the Annunciation of OUR calendar, and while not a Holy Day of Obligation, still an important date in the Christian calendar. Thanks for reviewing. I appreciate it very much.

Sunny · 24 May 2013 · Chapter 32: Moving On to Mithlond

Maglor still has quite a way to go for his healing, I think. His harp is finished and he has started playing it, but hasn't yet played his own music, nor has he really sung for the others yet. I suspect Maglor's visit t the sea will prove interesting. :)

Author's reply

You're probably right about that, Sunny. Maglor still has a way to go toward complete healing and it may not be completely achieved until he reaches Aman. We'll have to see. And the visit to the sea will prove very interesting indeed. Thanks for leaving a comment. It's very much appreciated.

Fantasia · 24 May 2013 · Chapter 32: Moving On to Mithlond

This was a pleasant chapter. We'll see what will happen in the Sea. Next chapter will be the Mystery of the Ocean, hey, maybe they'll find a sunken ship! I still feel so sad for Maglor, his thoughts that no one will welcome him to their new "room" was heartbreaking. I'm glad that all of them will be there to support him, to do whatever he is thinking. A real family.

Author's reply

Hi Fantasia. We'll see soon enough what they find when they reach the Sea and whether Maglor realizes it or not, they are a family, his family, perhaps more his family than his real one ever was. Thanks for commenting. I appreciate it.

shirebound · 24 May 2013 · Chapter 32: Moving On to Mithlond

What a relief it must be for them to get through the winter, and have solid plans and tasks to keep them from despair and discouragement. How I would love to hear an Elf sing.

Author's reply

So would I, Shirebound. I am sure it was a relief for them all to have made it through that first winter and to have plans and tasks to keep them from despair and discouragement. We will see how they get on from here on out. Thanks for reviewing. I much appreciate it.

Celeth · 24 May 2013 · Chapter 32: Moving On to Mithlond

I wonder what Maglor will do when he gets to the Sea? And what does it have to do with the Silmaril and his healing? Its nice to know that he finally finished his harp and that he is already playing it. Just as he saw the destruction of his harp as a symbol og his own life breaking apart, so maybe the new harp represents a new life, a new hope. And does he have things to look forward to now! Its a good sign that he took part enthusiastically in their celebration of spring and survival. I hope he will start singing soon. Maybe when he gets back from the sea...

Author's reply

Well, we'll find out soon enough, Celeth. Hopefully Maglor will see that the making of the new harp is a sign of hope for a new life. As for singing, that remains to be seen. Thanks for reviewing. It's appreciated.

demeter d · 22 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

I have a grown daughter who knits....constantly! She showed me a story in a book about the art that someone had written. A family was gathered about the death-bed of their aged mother. One of the sons noticed her hands moving rhythically, even tho she was barely conscious. Then one of the daughters began laughing out loud! Her mother's hands were "knitting" without yarn or needles or conscious direction from her brain! Music is deep down more important to Maglor than he realizes! I am enjoying this tale.

Author's reply

Air knitting! I love it. And you are correct that music is more important to Maglor than he realizes. I'm glad you are enjoying this story, demeter d. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it.

Kevana · 20 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

You really make me feel for Maglor here, Fiondil, even more so than usual because of his inner struggle to come to terms with being watched/guarded. Even if it's for his own good, it's also a constant reminder that he can't run away from coming to a solution and personal resolution with his past, what he's done, and why he did it (and of course the radioactive rock o' doom itself). That must be incredibly galling, even knowing the reason for it. Maybe galling enough to get this oyster to make a pearl? I was thinking that perhaps Arthalion at least wasn't as highly functional at the time he was under watch and might not have been as upset by it or entirely realized the implications, though I'm sure he came to understand as he demonstrates here. And thankfully so, because I got the feeling his words helped Maglor hold it together just a bit longer. Air-harping Elf! Rock on, Maglor. Party hard. I light a Zippo in your honor. I know you said his music will be important, and it has been at various points, yet somehow I think you've got a few more stray notes up your sleeve, hm? ;) Can't wait to see what happens once he gets that harp finished. Perhaps there will be more music for all the Ages composed in those towers, and they'll end up singing their way home. A shiny stone for a story involving a shiny stone (though one much less dangerous, haha). I never knew until recently that such a thing as wood opal existed, but I'm so very glad it does. It reminds me of a person's heart, with secrets and joy bubbling up through the cracks of something very plain-looking on the outside. Have a great week, and thanks for an insightful, developing chapter. -Kevana

Author's reply

I love opals and wood opals, especially, are so beautiful. And as for Maglor, all that you say about him is true and the importance of the harp will become clear soon enough, I promise. There is something Maglor must do before he can move on, both physically and emotionally, and we will see that shortly. Have a great week yourself, Kevana, and thanks for taking the time to comment. I appreciate it greatly.

Laer · 20 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

The harp may have something to do with his healing process, or is there a deeper reason for him to finish it? Only time and your fantastic updates will tell. :D

Author's reply

You are correct, Laer, and there is a deeper reason for him to finish making the harp, as we will see. Thanks for commenting. I very much appreciate it.

Larner · 20 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

Oh! So, Sam was a new years baby, then. Excellent!

Author's reply

Apparently, Larner, though it really has nothing to do with this story or even this chapter. *grin* At any rate, I'm glad to know you are still reading and hopefully enjoying the story. Thanks.

Fantasia · 20 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

There is nothing that I wish more than Maglor being free of that cursed Oath and Jewel. I feel bad for him, the other are doing what they can, but it is impossible not to feel as a prisoner, even if it is for your own good. And now, the mystery of the Harp (insert suspense music here)

Author's reply

I think we all want to see Maglor free of the Oath and the Jewel, Fantasia, and this story is very much about that. Until he is free of both, Maglor can't move forward and neither can the others who are with him. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.

Sunny · 20 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

Clearly throwing a snowball at him is one good method of getting Maglor to stop brooding! :) I agree with Arthalion that the harp Maglor is making is important. And the way he plays the air-harp - without even being aware that he does so, just is another piece of evidence to support this. It will be interesting to see what happens when the harp is finished. I wonder if the harp might even play a part in Maglor forgiving himself and dealing with the Oath and the Silmaril. Music has probably been a part of his identity all his life, and being bereft of music, even to the point of refusing to sing, must really be crippling him, and probably also hinders his healing.

Author's reply

Well, it worked and that's all that matters. *grin* Maglor needs to finish the harp. He can not move forward until he does and we wlll see what part the harp plays in all this before the end. Thanks for leaving a comment, Sunny. I very much appreciate it.

Cairistiona · 20 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

*banishes silly image of Elves sitting around playing Harp Hero on their game consoles* So glad that Maglor finally started work on the harp again--playing the music instead of air-harp will be so much more satisfying, and, I would imagine, will be another step forward in his journey. Arthalion is a very wise Elf. Imagining what the Belain will serve them to eat has me that much more eager to see them arrive, but I suspect there's still a very long way to go in the story before we reach that point!

Author's reply

Hi Cairistiona. Finishing the harp will prove beneficial to Maglor in many ways, as we will see soon enough. And it will be a while longer before they reach Aman, but I promise it won't be too long a wait for you or the other readers. One thing more has to be done first... Anyway, I appreciate you taking the time to leave a review. Thanks.

shirebound · 20 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

“Venison yesterday, venison today, and no doubt venison tomorrow" *grins* I imagine there will be quite a feast when they finally reach the West. I hope we get to enjoy it with them. :)

Author's reply

I'm sure many readers will make the connection with "The Hobbit" when they read this line. *grin* As for the feast(s), we'll just have to see, won't we? Thanks for leaving a comment, Shirebound. It's greatly appreciated.

Celeth · 20 May 2013 · Chapter 31: Of Harps and Other Matters

With an army of Maiar cooks, the Belain will certainly be able to serve them more than tea when they do show up at Dor Rodyn. Its just that they do have to get there first. It seems that Maglor's music is getting impatient for release and is forcing him to fast track the healing process ;) I am glad of that! And I am also glad that he has Arthalion and Denethor to give him a much-needed push every now and then too. And now it will be another four days before the next chapter (sigh).

Author's reply

Hi Celeth. Music is very important to Maglor. It is the way he connects with the rest of the world. It is how he remains grounded. Denying the music by refusing to work on his harp is denying a part of himself, the better part of himself. Arthalion and Denethor pushing him is the best thing they can do for him. We'll see what role the harp plays in all this soon enough. Thanks for reviewing. It's much appreciated.

obsidianj · 18 May 2013 · Chapter 29: Recuperation

So, how long was Maglor out? No idea how long it takes for elves to heal a broken arm. These nightmares sound nightmarish. I'm so glad that Maglor is on the mend. It seems they have some romance between them. With a long winter ahead of them that can be trying... No way to go and lose yourself gathering wood. Wait they have no trees. So, what are they burning?

Author's reply

Long enough, obsidianj. Probably close to a week, I would imagine. And they burn dry dung which they collect from the goats and deer. As for the romance blooming, we'll have to wait and see how that goes. Thanks for reviewing. It's much appreciated.

Sunny · 18 May 2013 · Chapter 30: The Long Winter

Denethor is very wise - Maglor needs to put himself on that forgiveness list of his, and I think that himself is the one person he is going to find it hardest of all to forgive. Haven't reviewed in a while, I'm afraid, and I suspect that reviews may be spotty for a while, due to RL acting up with a vengeance. (Well, except for yesterday, but that was Constitution Day, after all!) But be assured that I'm faithfully reading and enjoying the story!

Author's reply

Very wise, indeed, obsidianj. Hopefully, Maglor will heed his advice. And review when you can. Remember, you can always come back to a chapter and leave a review later when you are able. Thanks for leaving a comment for this chapter. It's much appreciated and I hope RL gets a bit calmer for you soon. Author Reply: Oops. Sorry about that Sunny. I had just finished responding to obsidianj's review in the last chapter and as it's rather early in the morning and I haven't even had my tea yet, I sort of zoned out. Mea culpa.

Agape4Gondor · 18 May 2013 · Chapter 30: The Long Winter

Needless to say, I'm glad Maglor healed from the wounds - but not all of them, eh? I hate nightmares and being an Elf - you don't have to sleep as often as the rest of us - but still....... Great chapters. I was particularly fond of the last one.

Author's reply

No, not all of them, Agape, not the soul-wounds which run deepest. I'm glad you've enjoyed this and the previous chapters, especially the last one. Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate it very much.

Kevana · 17 May 2013 · Chapter 30: The Long Winter

Maybe not, Denethor, but you're not doing too badly for yourself there, buddy. Now if only Maglor will take that advice. So they've dealt with the immediate outward threat only to deal with an inward threat. Poor fellow, those nightmares sound terrible. I don't know what it'll take for him to make it through this but I am glad he has the support of the others. What a situation, first he swore to get the Silmarils back and now he can't darn well get rid of one! That's nicely poetic and I love how you've written it, and the continued consequences of it. This is fabulous. Denethor's hit it on the nose here, I think. At this point you have to wonder how much what Maglor's suffering is actually coming from the shiny radioactive rock o' doom in question and how much is coming from *him*. An Elf sleepwalking, now that's one somnambulist I wouldn't want to wake up mid-stroll. Love the weather descriptions, I'm a southern chick and snow is for the birds, hehe, but it's refreshing to be reading about ice when we're starting to hit 90 degrees every day. Great chapter, Fiondil! Thanks for the update. Also, LOL @Laer, I know just what you mean about the "one more paragraph"! I've been reading right before work and it's like, noooo, just one more minute before I leave the house! Friday lagniappe: *cough* Fiondil, I have no idea whether you'd find this as amusing as I do, but on the off chance that you will, I have found an artist illustrating parts of the Silmarillion...in the style of My Little Pony. They're calling it My Little Quendi. Yes, really. Crossing the Helcaraxe, Finrod vs. Sauron, Fingon and Maedhros, Bringing Home Beren. The artist tagged it "I'm going to Angband for this" and I will be right there beside them, yup. In chains. And rags. Laughing hysterically. It's been nice knowing you. *waves 'bye* -Kevana

Author's reply

Hi Kevana. LOL! These are cute. I especially liked the Finrod vs. Sauron one and Bringing Home Beren. Lúthien sounds like a 14-year-old with her first boy crush. Thanks for sharing. And the artist might well be going to Angband for these, but at least she'll have fun doing so. Anyhoo... where were we? Oh yes! Maglor. Yeah, he's having it rough, but he's got friends and he's not a dummy, so he'll figure it all out eventually as we will see in the next couple of chapters. I'm glad you like the way I've written about the consequences of having a Silmaril present and how it's affecting, not only Maglor, but the others as well. Thanks for leaving a comment and the lagniappe. I appreciate both very much. Have a great weekend.

Larner · 17 May 2013 · Chapter 30: The Long Winter

The wisdom Denethor shows is so marked and so necessary at the moment. Maglor is right in calling him on his own estimation of himself! So, somehow the saber tooths are marked by the Silmaril and bound up with its fate. Did Morgoth use its light to somehow empower the portion of his discordant song that gives them their malevolent intelligence? Something to ponder until Monday! Am working actively on the next chapter and hope to have it to you soon.

Author's reply

Now there's a scary thought, Larner, but it does make sense in explaining the cats. We'll see how things go with Maglor and what he decides about the Silmaril in the next few chapters. Thanks for taking the time to review and I look forward to seeing your next chapter when it's ready.

ainisarie · 17 May 2013 · Chapter 30: The Long Winter

I've often thought that the oath did not NEED to binding. If I remember correctly, they swore the oath to Eru with Manwe and Varda as witnesses. And I somehow think that Eru and the Valar would have been quite content to let them renounce the oath at any time. Maglor seems to be lacking insight here. It may not be that he IS bound of the oath so much as he THINKS he is bound to it. So, yes he needs to forgive himself and maybe ask the Powers to release him from the oath at the same time as he renounces it.

Author's reply

Hi Ainisarie. I have no doubt that you are correct and that Eru and the Valar pretty much did not accept the Oaths sworn, but of course Maglor sees it differently. In a society where oaths are sacred bonds, they are neither lightly given or renounced and that has consequences for all, especially the oathtaker. Maglor needs to forgive himself before he is ready to renounce the Oath. We will see in the next few chapters what he decides to do about it. Thanks for reviewing. I really appreciate it.

Laer · 17 May 2013 · Chapter 30: The Long Winter

I am sitting here thinking I really should pay attention to the instructor, but the other part of me kept thinking...no, one more sentence. No one more paragraph, no hush person speaking this is important stuff! Er, I mean. um. Yeah, IMeh, ah well. Love the way this makes me want to grab my winter stuff and just "buzz on over there" with some lattes and stuff to make smores with just so they can have something a little different to eat. well and meat. Lots of cow for them. Yeah, I know the lattes will be frozen before I make it there, but they can either melt them or chip off a chunk to melt in their mouths. Poor Maglor, stupid shiny rock and skanking cats hopes he figures out the relation between the two. Both are bad for him. :/

Author's reply

LOL! Oh Laer, I hope the instructor never finds out that you're reading fanfiction in his (or her) class. That would be very embarrassing for you. Anyway, I think his dreams are more about the Silmaril and the cats are just there because he's had to deal with them and almost died because of them and they are as much a threat to him, though on a physical level, as the Silmari is on a spiritual level. It all ties in together. We'll see how he resolves this in the next chapter. Thanks for reading and reviewing. I really appreciate it.