Fic: A Little More Conversation - 11/11 - Glorfindel, Erestor

[keiliss]

Title: A Little More Conversation 11/11
Beta: red_lasbelin
Characters: Glorfindel & Erestor
Disclaimer: not mine, I just play with them.
Summary: A story told through letters of the friendship that grows between Glorfindel, sent to take charge of the newly-discovered valley of Imladris, and Erestor, an assistant to one of Gil-galad’s military advisors.

AN: my thanks to everyone who has shared Res and Fin's story with me, special thanks to Erfan for always having the answers and to Red for talking, listening, and hand-holding.


Dear Brennil,

In case you think I am already home -- no, my dear sister, still in Imladris. Of course, we have no idea if the first courier got through, so you may not know we are all effectively imprisoned here. A second messenger is being sent, and this time he will carry not just a report to His Majesty, but also news to family and friends. Lord Elrond said that as I hold a senior staff position in Mithlond (news to me, but not arguing), and as I meant to stay no longer than a month, he felt it only fair that I be allowed to add a personal letter to the package, a privilege extended only to the most senior members of the garrison.

I have no idea when next I will be able to write, so this could end up being quite long. Everyone else had to content themselves with a few lines in a general communication, which will be shared amongst families and friends once His Majesty has seen the report. I doubt individual messages would be copied out and forwarded, so I suppose people will have to come to the palace to read the few words in a familiar hand saying ‘I am well, do not be concerned’.

Where to begin? The journey across Eriador was as uneventful as the personalities involved allowed. In other words, there were any number of small dramas, but they were the kinds that happen when families travel together and soon blew over. However, we were attacked by a well-armed orc band when we were less than a day’s ride from the Ford, and it was quite a scramble in the end to get here. We would have struggled to fight them off had not Lord Elrond and some of his men also been on their way to pay a rare visit to Imladris. We took a few injuries but no one was killed on our side – cannot say the same for the orcs.

We arrived in a confusion of carts, horses, over-excited children and angry cats – did I mention before I left that Fin told me Imladris badly needed cats to keep the rodent population in check? I had told him I was trying to find someone to feed Nutmeg and her (now half grown) kittens, and this seemed the perfect solution all round. And yes, I can hear you saying they could fend for themselves for a month or two, but she got used to me feeding her, the kittens never knew any different, and Fin promised they would be cared for, not just left to live wild.

In any event, Lord Elrond’s warriors had to help us get the carts down the only possible path, which is literally cut into the side of the gorge. The way is incredibly steep and treacherous, with a series of sharp bends overlooked by watch stations so that no enemy could pass down unnoticed. Some places had been prepared for us with the addition of branches and sand over the trail’s loose gravel, but even so, everyone had to walk, the animals had to be led, and in places the carts had to be almost physically carried. One cart lost a wheel, and two of the younger members of our party deserted us when they caught sight of their father at one of the watch stations and climbed up to join him.

As we moved lower, we caught glimpses through the trees of the river far below. There is one bend that offers a brief, spectacular view through to the valley that opens off the gorge and which is otherwise invisible, and that was where I had my first real sight of Imladris. Broad sweep of forested hills enclosed within the mountain’s rocky embrace, patches of planted fields, the terraces Fin told me about already extending up one slope, sunlight glinting on swift-flowing water.

The trail took us through trees and over a stream on what I found later was a temporary bridge originally put in place for the cattle and left there for us. Further down the stream fell away in a narrow ribbon of silver water to meet the river below, while the trail itself narrowed to little more than a track with rock on one side and a sheer drop on the other. Then we rounded the final bend and came abruptly out onto a stretch of rough grass leading up to a hodge-podge of structures built against the wall of the gorge. Most of the garrison and others who were clearly civilians waited to greet us, including one young man who was unaware his promised had petitioned His Majesty (who would deny it but is a romantic) for permission to join her love and start their life together in the east. The expression on his face when first he saw her is something I will never forget.

And behind them, waiting so that reunions would not be constrained by the necessary formality between himself and Lord Elrond, was Fin. He stood straight and tall, his hair glinting gold in the sunlight, and was dressed all in grey.

After a moment I remembered my training, found the duty officer, and handed my men over to him. Predictably, he wanted a full report of our encounter with the orcs, with details about strength, weapons, and the like. Some things are best dealt with now rather than later, so I asked for pen and parchment, found a convenient rock to sit on, and got on with it. While I was busy with this, I could see Lord Elrond and Fin talking, then going over to look at the horses that had pulled the carts and would remain in Imladris.

Everything looked slightly unreal, and I found it hard to concentrate. The air was filled with the sound of the Bruinen leaping down rocks on its way through the gorge, and a myriad rainbows sparkled in the spray above the waterfalls - you can see them from the trail, and Fin told me later the Silvans call this the Valley of Rainbows. People were all over the place, necessities were being unpacked from the carts, and I knew I should be helping. When a voice behind me said ‘Res?’, I’m afraid I jumped. Yes, still good at embarrassing myself. I rose and looked up – quite a way up, I had forgotten how tall he is – and Fin and I just stood there smiling at one another until finally he said, “Welcome to Imladris,” and we both started laughing because it was such an unoriginal greeting.

We talked while I finished the report, then he took me over to greet Sael, who had his son, Lindir, with him. Next I was introduced to a crowd of people who I later recalled as a jumble of faces, skills, names and former homes – most were from Ost-in-Edhil. I did a lot of smiling and nodding and wondered if a month would be enough time for me to memorize everyone’s names. It turns out that, thanks to circumstances beyond my control, I need not have worried. I will be here more than long enough.

The Enemy’s forces arrived nine days later. Lord Elrond feared he had been followed, I was sure my party had led them here, but Fin and Arasiel, his de facto second in command, both insisted this had been coming for a while, and that the disappearance of the cattle may have been the final clue to Imladris’ existence. An entire army is now camped above the valley: orcs, men (yes, Easterners too), and other creatures that no one can name for certain, although there are riding wargs and I have heard wolves calling after dark. Their outriders came in the quiet time before dawn, but there have been watchers on the high ground since the valley was first settled, so we were warned and the entrance to the gorge was successfully held against them.

For now, we are at an impasse; they cannot reach us down here, but equally it would be impossible for us to mount any kind of an attack up such a steep incline. Our warriors know every inch of the gorge, and, once the first few attempts to send orcs down the cliff ended in instant death, they stopped trying to breach us. The trees also keep their own vigil, and nothing will escape their notice. They know this valley is a place of refuge and have chosen to accept elves as part of their world. We are cut off from the outside, living out our days in a place that, despite the circumstances, still feels distanced from war and fear. Sometimes when the air is still and the river calm, we can hear them high above us, and at night we see and smell their cooking fires. Otherwise we remain as separate as though we lived in different countries.

Lord Elrond worries that Eriador is now without defense, but with the majority of Sauron’s soldiers on the high ground above us. I suspect the rest of Eriador is probably a safer place than it has been for some time. I am more concerned that feeding all these extra mouths might prove problematic later, as Imladris is not yet fully self sufficient and had been supplementing the little it produces with what could be found in the surrounding countryside. Fin has already introduced rationing, and food is being preserved and stored for winter. Hopefully the siege will have been lifted before then.

I wanted to take my turn watching, but as I do not know the area, it will be a while before I am more than a liability. Where I have been more useful is as a climber. Fin suggested I try some of the sheerer sections of the gorge to see how far I could get and where additional surveillance is necessary. He even joined me on a few of the simpler climbs, which was not what either of us had in mind when we discussed mountaineering. I get the impression he prefers his feet on the ground though, so perhaps we will stick to fishing when he has time.

Otherwise, life goes on almost normally. Not that anyone here is blind to the horror camped literally above us, or to the cold twist of fear at the thought that soon, very soon, Sauron might turn his attention towards Lindon itself, but there is nothing more we can do except watch, wait and prepare for winter.

There are more hands available for field work now the garrison no longer patrols beyond Imladris, so farming activity has increased. New fields are being cleared to lie fallow like the terraces until next year, and the garrison’s kitchen garden, a long strip of vegetables and herbs growing in the arable soil above the river, is weeded and checked for parasites daily. Most of the vegetables originated from seed I sent out here, which makes me feel a part of all this, even though I am so newly arrived. There are vegetable patches over the river, too, in the village, barley grows on hill slopes along with flax and oats, while the cows and sheep each have their own pasture. It feels almost like being back home if you ignore the orcs.

I have my own ‘room’, despite the lack of space and my willingness to share one of the communal tents, each of which is home to eight warriors. Now that there are houses across the river, some of the cliffside shelters have fallen vacant. Most were commandeered by the senior ranks, but there were a couple being used for storage, and one of these was transformed into a sleeping space for me. Picture a shallow cave, bare rock walls on two sides with a screen of branches and hide dividing you off from the next occupant. The front is enclosed in similar fashion, a leather door flap opens onto a broad, stone ledge with twelve steps cut ladder-like into the cliff, leading from the ledge down to the ground. Quite a contrast to my room in the palace, I know, but I am very comfortable.

I have woven hangings to brighten the walls with their blues, reds and greens, and a drawing of the main waterfall, a gift from Fin. There is a reed mat on the floor, and my bed has a collection of covers that range from a thin summer blanket to my good cloak. Fin says if I am still here in winter, I can have his bearskin. In the morning I open the door and lie in bed listening to the river and the birds, the sounds of breakfast cooking for the garrison, and the horses whickering further down river. Háran comes looking for me if I am slow to leave my nest; he sits at the foot of the steps and barks. I think Fin sent him the first few times, but it grew into a habit. Once I go out and say good morning, he is satisfied and leaves.

By the time I went to bed on my first day here, I had already met nearly half the community as many still cross the river for the evening meal in the Hall of Fire (a fancy name for the communal hearth), and then spend an hour or two before going home. We were given a welcoming feast on the third night: roast boar and goose, potatoes, summer squash and a selection of greens, plus a dessert made from a kind of cake topped with berries and served with cream and a drizzle of honey. The fire was built up after we finished eating, the wine was sent round, and we sat talking and occasionally singing till the moon was low in the sky. I heard Lindir sing then for the first time, and Fin was right, he is an exceptional talent. When things are back to normal, perhaps he could spend a few years in Mithlond for training. I can ask His Majesty, if his parents agree.

Fin joined me after dinner, though of course Lord Elrond and Arasiel sat beside him during the meal. Because of the music, we listened more than we talked, and it was so like the evenings he had written me about that we could not help but glance at one another every so often and smile. His eyes sparkle - you can tell he is smiling even if his face is still or half-hidden in shadow. When I met him in Mithlond I thought he seemed grave and serious, which I suppose one expects of a reborn hero, but although he can seem a bit reserved at times, he is as warm and friendly as his letters. From the start I felt as though we had known one another for years.

You might wonder how I cope with having nothing to do after years of always being busy, but in fact there is an unwritten rule here that everyone pitches in and helps wherever they can. My main achievement so far has been to create a corner in the Hall of Fire for the books I managed to beg and borrow before I left Mithlond. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly the idea caught on, more books have quietly appeared and been added, and one shelf has already been extended to two. Lord Elrond jokes that we have the beginnings of our library, though if the siege continues for any length of time we may need to write our own books if we wish it to grow.

Fin introduced me to the sheep, all of whom seem to have names (as I suspected), and we rode down the valley to the cow pasture where I got to meet their Silvan herders. They have claimed their own, more traditional, space within Imladris and even sleep on covered platforms in the trees, a thing I have heard of but never seen before. I love the ambience of their corner of the valley, and how at one they are with the natural world. I will never learn to connect with trees and animals as absolutely as they do, but I would love to try. As a first step, I am trying to learn their dialect which pre-dates and is very unlike Sindarin.

I have also spent quite a lot of time with Amalek– you will recall him from home and that I told you about arranging for him to come here and advise on farming methods. Did I mention that his wife, one son, a daughter, their partners and children came through with us to join him? It was all arranged at the last minute, and I was quite surprised His Majesty was so agreeable to it. Mortals cannot be apart as long as we can, their life span does not allow for it, and I suppose he had that in mind when he gave his consent.

In any event, he (Amalek) seems to feel I might remember something about farming from my youth and has spent days showing me around and explaining what has been done and what he would like to attempt in the future. I get the impression Fin’s quaint idea that warriors should be out hunting orcs rather than working the land puzzles him. I suspect Amalek sees the current surplus of available labour less as a calamity than a gift god-sent (goddess-sent?) and is taking full advantage of the situation. His main project at the moment is a channel to carry water to the cattle as there are only a few places along the bank where the river is shallow enough for them to drink. He and Sael are also discussing a complex-sounding irrigation system.

I never had a chance to meet Lord Elrond socially in Mithlond, but Imladris is not a place that stands much on formality. I find him extremely interesting and very easy to talk to. He dismisses his reputation as a master of lore as the result of his family being central to so many of the tales of elder years. He says that, having grown up without knowing much about them, he did a lot of reading once he joined His Majesty’s household, that he quite enjoys history, and has a good memory for obscure facts. All in all, he maintains he is probably well-informed by accident rather than design. I have my own opinion on the subject.

You would never think he had spent so little time in Imladris, he fits into the ways of the valley as though he had been here from the beginning. He visits the village across the river several times a week, is getting to know the people, and seems to take an interest in everything. He and Fin have struck up a really good rapport, and where there might have been conflict over authority and responsibilities, they came to a quick and easy accord. Fin continues to oversee the day to day business of garrison and settlement, but he never overlooks nor allows anyone else to overlook the fact that Lord Elrond is master of this valley, that he holds it in the king’s name and that he is Gil-galad’s heir. I doubt though that anyone would dispute who controls the garrison, which has increased dramatically in size with the arrival of him and his men.

Lord Elrond also has the gift for healing, something given to only a few of us. Healers do not normally go to war, nor do warriors try to heal as the energies are at odds with one another, so he has put aside this skill until after the war. Of course, in the absence of a true healer, he still does what he can to aid the wounded. Only two healers travel with the army, one with the main group who are now here in Imladris, and the other moves from one scouting party to the next as the need arises. Yet another reason why Lord Elrond being trapped here bodes ill for operations against the enemy. I hope the captains of those small groups currently spread out across the province obey their standing orders when they realise what has happened and head back to Lindon.

That puts me in mind of Captain B, about whom I am more worried than I like to admit, even to myself. I really hope that he and Thalahir are getting along. We had a good relationship and I developed a sense for when he was about to do something --- imaginative and potentially dangerous. This is the thing I find most difficult about the current situation - I enjoy my job, I do it to the best of my ability, and I worry about whether the people I looked after are all right, if Thalahir will ever care about them on the same level that I do --- I feel as though I am letting them down by disappearing like this. Stupid I know, there are others far more competent than I on His Majesty’s administrative staff, but I feel as though I have walked away from them.

Fin understands. In fact, I think we are as alike in that way as we are in others. He makes commitments to people, not causes, and feels his responsibilities deeply and personally. He says it was not always so, but I think maybe it just took that lonely stand on the pass for him to finally see what was truly important. He is as I remembered him in looks, and in person he is exactly the same as in his letters, except in person I can see the way a smile starts first in his eyes, hear his laugh, and have a sense of his strength, both physical and mental.

He has been the centre of this valley from the beginning, and while Lord Elrond is already well-liked and respected, people are used to coming to Fin with even the smallest problem. He always seems to find time, and if he does not understand something at first, he asks questions until he does. His enthusiasm for Imladris is boundless and at times makes him seem very young, despite his age and having experienced death and rebirth. I had trouble remembering his voice as we had barely spoken before - it is light and clear, but strong too, and he still speaks with the accent I associate with Gondolin. A good voice for reading aloud or reciting ancient poetry. A good voice for late night conversations beside an almost deserted hearth, coals glowing in the gloom, the sounds of wind and river whispering outside.

When I first told you I was attracted to men rather than women, you were so unsurprised and accepting that I think I probably forgot to thank you. You have been the best sister anyone could ever hope for. There are so many others like me who never had that kind of support, never knew what it was like to be able to share dreams, desires and youthful crushes. You told me once that dreams do sometimes come true, though not always as we imagine them, and it seems once more you were right. Sometimes reality can far outstrip imagination - I certainly never imagined anything quite like the turn my life has taken.

Only time will tell if this is forever for Fin or for me, but right now it is all new and overwhelming and feels very right. We compliment each other very well, in our likes and dislikes, when we talk or when we are silent, when we kiss --- yes, there has been a kiss. Or two. And yes, I am about to confide in you yet again.

The first was as perfect as I suppose only first kisses can be. We had already gone riding down the valley several times, following the little trails that have started to form through the trees and along the river bank, but this time Fin suggested we leave the horses behind and the three of us, him, me and Háran, go for a hike. We started early in the morning, and Fin brought food along for us. The siege was already an established fact, and he had faith enough in Arasiel to leave command of the garrison to her for the day. We crossed the river, went past the houses, then followed a stream that branched off the Bruinen into the forest. Háran went on ahead, barking to let us know when he found something interesting, sometimes falling back to see what was taking us so long.

We took out time, talking as we went and making regular stops along the way, Fin even tried (unsuccessfully) to make friends with a frog. Birds sang, the sun slanted down through the trees, the air carried the scents of chestnut and honeysuckle, ramsons and the sweet briars that compete with the brambles for space, leaf rot and early summer’s green growth. It would have been idyllic had we not suddenly heard, faint on the air, the sound of rough speech from somewhere far above us.

Strange how fast you can start taking something for granted, after less than two weeks I sometimes almost forgot they were there. I saw Fin glance up once or twice, determining our position in relation to the high land, and once he was sure the orcs were no closer than they ought to be and that we were well out of sight, he smiled and nodded to me. After that, we ignored them.

Near midday, we came across a sun-dappled clearing amongst the trees. A small stand of beeches grew near the water, their trunks silver green and silky to touch and eye, while an ancient oak spread his branches low and inviting. Between them lay a patch of soft, flower-studded grass, while close to the stream grew purple irises and a dark green carpet of ramsons. A huddle of cowslips, strayed from the beginnings of a meadow, nodded beneath a beech.

We had picked some of the tiny, sweet strawberries that grow over tree roots and along the bank, and added these to the meal Fin had packed: fresh bread, a tiny jar of sweet oil, shavings of cheese (which we brought from Mithlond, although we plan to start making cheese here), tomato, fennel, little honeyed oatcakes, gooseberries, a handful of nuts, and a flask of wine, pale gold, tasting of sunshine. Simple fare, but satisfying.

Háran saw us settled and then went off on one of his eternal quests for slow squirrels, and we joked about what he might do were he to catch one. The cats had been a harsh surprise, a lesson swiftly learned. We shared our feast, talking and laughing between mouthfuls. Fin toasted me with our second cup of wine, saying that I am good for him, that he was too serious before. He touched his cup to mine, looking into my eyes, and the kiss happened without forethought, without the insecurity that comes with anticipation. The world went on unnoticed, his arms were round me, he was warm and strong, his mouth tasted of summer wine and honey.

We kissed, we stopped to look at one another, we kissed again, my arm about his neck, his hand in my hair. I have no idea where things would have gone from there had Háran not come charging back barking, making us separate, laughing at his timing. We talked after that, leaning together with Fin’s arm around me, sharing wine and small kisses. We agreed in the end on two things, that we would move slowly with this, take time to get to know one another properly, and that some things, like our meeting, are plainly meant to be.

And that is probably far more information than you ever wanted or needed about your brother’s love life.

I take life one day at a time, as do we all here. The siege will last for as long as it lasts, and after that I will have to see what life brings, whether or not I can persuade His Majesty to let me remain. Meanwhile, the cats are doing well and have made a whole host of friends, and I am settled, well and, despite my concerns for the darkness that surrounds us, happy. I try very hard not to worry too much about you. I tell myself the wandering companies have roamed since the days of Fingolfin’s kingship, that you will all have gone where it is safe, that most probably you have crossed into Lindon and enjoy the High King’s protection. As I have no way of knowing for sure where you are or what you are doing, this is what I choose to believe. Were you truly in danger, I think I would know.

Take care, dearest Brennil. Walk in light and safety, be your sweet, free self, and never let anyone force you to conform to their idea of what makes a lady.

Love you.
Res.

Comments

[beruthiels-cats.livejournal.com]

Beautiful...such a satisfying ending! Can't help but feel as if it will turn out well for them. Should have known you'd find a way to keep them together, and all according to canon!
Thoroughly enjoyable, exceedingly well done! (and now we'll start twigging you for the sequel, lol)

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

Thank you, dear, I'm glad you liked it :) I'm sure it will turn out well for them, they seemed to fit so well together in their letters and when they finally met it still worked - not one of those friendships that doesn't survive a RL meeting *g*. Sequel -- heh!

Hope everything's going well at home **hugs you tight**

[chaotic-binky.livejournal.com]

I love the descriptions and sat with a smile on my face all the way through. This chapter was warm and wonderful. Erestor has a gentle pace with his writing and yet he captures so much.

Hugs Binky xxxx

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

Hey Binky :) I spent a long time working on the descriptions and trying to picture what Res was seeing, and I'm delighted you liked them. Thank you so much for your support right through this series, and I'm so glad you enjoyed the final letter.

**hugs!**

[aleabeth.livejournal.com]

His eyes sparkle - you can tell he is smiling even if his face is still or half-hidden in shadow.

A good voice for reading aloud or reciting ancient poetry. A good voice for late night conversations beside an almost deserted hearth, coals glowing in the gloom, the sounds of wind and river whispering outside.

The first was as perfect as I suppose only first kisses can be.

Gee, do ya think Erestor is just a tad in love?

Háran saw us settled and then went off on one of his eternal quests for slow squirrels,

LOL

Love this :)

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

I think Res may be juuuust a tad in love, yes. Just a teeny little bit *g*.

I'm so glad you picked out that passage about his voice, it's one of my favourites, I could see the entire scene as I was writing it.

I'm glad you liked how this letter turned out and that you've enjoyed the series. Thanks so much for the lovely comment :)

**hugs**

[red-lasbelin.livejournal.com]

Loved this series so much. Your take on Glorfindel on this was new and he was very much his own being, and I have a tiny crush on him right now. Erestor in his own right - gorgeous!

I loved all the details you included, how imladris came to be. Didn't find a moment where it was dry. It just worked. I'm sad this is the last we'll be seeing of them, same time though? It's silly to think so just from the first kiss, but I think they are going to be very happy together, grow together.

Wonderful journey, dear.

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

Thank you for your willingness to read things over and over and over, for listening to me whine, for helping them through the winter (I would have been lost without you there, lol), and for beta reading under difficult conditions. And yes, they're going to be together down the ages and sail with Elrond in the end, with Glorfindel grimly determined to make his family accept the love of his life even if the gender issue is a bit sensitive.


*loves*

[phyncke.livejournal.com]

How dreamy. It is a very dishy letter. I can imagine his sister sipping a cup of tea and reading over this nice dishy letter full of rich description from her brother. It is well done. Jury still out on whether or not this finishes it for me. Will discuss.

I do love everything you do here, from telling the story of the dramas on the way, the perilous descent into the valley, to the nightly ocurrences from Erestor's view point. We have seen Imladris from Glorfindel's POV, now we get another view and we know Erestor so well. It is like he is our friend and he is writing to us. He delivers what we want to know.

How G. looks upon first sight and all the nuances of their meeting.

I really like that they will take it slow. I did expect that. They met through the formality of the written word. It seems inappropriate that they would share quarters or hop into bed. That is very well done there.

I really enjoy that Elrond is there and that we get some feel for him too. Just hints at him but aptly drawn. I can see him smiling.

What I need or want is Glorfindel's POV on their meeting. I know. I will shut up. *sulks*

Really well done.

Finished? You decide. I am not going to tell you.

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

I have loved finding each of your comments about this series. You catch the little details that are special to me, you care about the characters, it has been wonderful to see their story reflected back in your reviews. Reading what you have to say has made me smile, touched me, encouraged me. Thank you so much, Jaen dear.

I don't know. Might not be totally over. Not sure. See what the muses say … funny, unpredictable creatures, muses.

*hugs*

[phyncke.livejournal.com]

I will cling to that thread of hope that there is more. :P

I have really enjoyed that and would love to see more in this verse. I really do love reading about THIS Erestor and Glorfindel.

*huggles*

[erviniae.livejournal.com]

Lovely ending for these letters, Kei.
Enjoyed this whole series. :)

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

***hugs you tight*** Ervy dear, thank you so much for commenting, I'm happy you enjoyed the series and that you liked the way the final letter turned out :)

I never thought I'd end up writing quite this much Erestor/Glorfindel, lol.

[aglarien1.livejournal.com]

I love the little glimpses of life - the two young members who left to climb up to the watch station to join their father; the look on the face of the young man when he first saw his love there; Fin trying to make friends with a frog. This was just delightful, as was the whole series. I am going to miss it tremendously!

*hugs*

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

I'm going to miss it as well, very much. Thank you for mentioning a couple of little touches that were really important to me, and thank you for being the impetus behind Erestor relocating to Imladris with four cats in his baggage :D Could not have left them behind, he didn't know but he was going to end up gone for years… Nutmeg and her children thank you, as do I for all your comments and encouragement :)

*hugs*

[aglarien1.livejournal.com]

I'm sure Nutmeg was Tinnu's ancestress, so he's very pleased Erestor and the cats relocated to Imladris too. *grin* I'm very glad I could play such a small part in such a delightful ending.

*hugs*

[http://users.livejournal.com/fishyz9_/]

This chapter and first meeting is so very lovely. Much sighing on my part :) I love that your Erestor can laugh at himself, it's such an endearing quality you've given him and something you could just imagine your Glofindel finding attractive. I've always admired how you write these two - honest, good men with everyday flaws and a deep capacity to love. You have this ability to create such a romantic, clear picture without sacrificing masculinity or the genuine feel of the moment. I'm blabbing. But I only usually do that when I lub lub lub a story. Going to miss this one, but not going to miss checking your journal every other bloody day for an update! Lol.

Oh, and just wanted to add that I'm with red on this. Have quite the crush on both of them :P

Thanks for such a good story.

Da Fish
x

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

I really loved this review, Fishy, thank you :) I have an idea how many E/G fics you've read over the years, to say nothing of how many you've written yourself, so knowing you liked the series, that you like my two elves --- honest and good, with everyday flaws, as you say - is immensely special to me. I've felt very complimented by the fact that you've been reading the series, and I am very happy you enjoyed the final chapter.

*mutters* mightbeasequellater - fic,notlettersthough.

**squishes the Fish**

[http://users.livejournal.com/fishyz9_/]

Possible fic sequal? *Does snoopy dance*

x

[minuial_nuwing]

This is just gorgeous, Kei. **sniff** I wondered how you would end the series of letters, and this was the perfect choice. The little glimpses of day to day life in Imladris under siege are beautifully drawn. I loved the image of the children climbing up to join their father in the watch station, and that Gil-galad is a romantic and the warmth you have given Elrond - I could go on and on, so I'll stop before I write an essay. **grin**

Actually, I find myself wondering about Brennil, too - whether or not she is really safe in Lindon, what stories she could tell. She must be someone very special. You have created a wonderfully engaging character in her, even though she is seen solely through Erestor's eyes.

The meeting and slowly evolving relationship between Erestor and Glorfindel are just right, and I wish we could watch a while longer. I will miss these letters and the people who live in them.


**hugs**

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

Trying to work out how to end this without losing the letter format was a struggle - a fic showing their meeting would have covered it but the voices would have felt different, and I thought it might work in a sequel but not as part of the series. Then I thought of Brennil, his older sister, the one person Res could be relied on to confide in with as much detail as the story needed *g*.

I'm pleased you could see her through his eyes - I would have loved to bring her right into the story but it just wouldn't fit together. I --- hope she's safe in Lindon, I'm sure Gildor was wise about trying to keep the people who looked to him safe in times of trouble.

Thank you so much for the gorgeous feedback, sweetie --- I'll miss them too. Very much.

**huggles**

[zhie.livejournal.com]

Ah, that was lovely, and it all ended just the way I hoped it would. (Okay, maybe a no orcs up on the high ground would have been slightly better, but, y'know, canon stuff and all...) Beautiful job. Sometimes stories written with letters are hard to pull off, but this one read so easily and so well. *hugs*

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

*tries three different thank yous, gives up.* I had no idea you were reading the series - you absolutely made my day :D Thank you so much for the lovely compliments, I really appreciate the feedback.

I think Elrond could have done fine without those orcs, too.

*hugs*

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

(yes, looked at my reply again, definitely better than 'OMIGOD, you were reading it?!!' Much more dignified.)

[lissas-elves.livejournal.com]

Oh Keiliss, this is so lovely! I've been looking forward to reading the last letter and am now sitting here with a smile on my face, happy that Fin and Res - despite their current predicament - are finally together.

>>...Fin. He stood straight and tall, his hair glinting gold in the sunlight, and was dressed all in grey.

After a moment I remembered my training...<<

Oh yes, he'd need a little time to recover from such a sight. :-)

I think you are right in letting them take it slow; they are very intelligent, very aware of the possible implications for people of their station - it makes sense to wait and see if this really is what it appears to be.

But please, once they find out, do tell us! lol

Reading these letters has been a wonderful journey. The tone; the slow unfolding of a friendship; all the little details about the settling in a new land - all so very beautifully done.

Thank you!

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

HI Lissa :) Thank you so much for all your kind words about the series and for this really great feedback. I'm thrilled you liked the final letter and the chance to see how things are progressing between them. You're right, neither of them is likely to rush things, for all sorts of reasons. I think they have a long future ahead of them, plenty of time for things to happen as they should :) Well anyway, that's what I hope for them.

I'm also so glad the series meant I got to meet you - please don't be a stranger here :)

*hugs*

[lissas-elves.livejournal.com]

>>I think they have a long future ahead of them, plenty of time for things to happen as they should <<

I hope so, too. They've definitely made a good beginning.

>>your kind words about the series <<

It's just that there's nothing I enjoy more than when a writer takes the time to research thoroughly, develop characters and include all those little details and subtleties that make such a great difference. :-)

>>I'm also so glad the series meant I got to meet you - please don't be a stranger here :)<<

Thank you! What a sweet thing to say. But don't worry (or perhaps you should...): You won't get rid of me now. ;-)

[erfan-starled.livejournal.com]

I've got down to the enemy arriving and have to stop there, I feel, until I've finished editing a piece that coincides about orcs and Imladris. I really am sorry about that and have thoroughly enjoyed the story as I've experienced it every step thus far. I'm touched to be mentioned, thank you for that.

What I like about the short passage I have read is the calmness of his writing to Brennil about their circumstances (says a lot about Erestor) and his acute perceptions of all he sees as they arrive. His interest in the people around him and his appreciation of others' happiness, and the wider context of different groups of people - Silvan elves, those from Ost-in-Edhil.

His description of the place sounded very lovely, just right for a letter but still speaking of his enthusiasm over seeing it for himself after all this time hearing about a place he had taken such an interest in. And it sounded lovely from his talk of trees and fast water and sunshine. Valley of Rainbows indeed.

Thanks once again for the pleasure of meeting these two gorgeous guys and seeing their detailed world with great warmth and humour through their eyes in such charming ways. Thanks also for the kind mention; any involvement has been a great pleasure.

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

Hey :) You touched on something I wondered if I'd got right --- keeping the descriptions suitable to a letter, not adding the extra layers you would sometimes in a fic. Thanks for letting me know you feel I got it right :) I’m glad you like what you've read so far, though I'm a little sorry you didn't have the chance to see what I did with the images you shared with me.

[kitty279.livejournal.com]

The letter to Erestor’s sister was a good solution how to tell about their first meeting and still tell the tale in letters :)

Very far-sighted of Erestor to take his cats, as there’s no return for him any time soon ;) Not to mention they are needed in Imladris anyway. And you found the perfect excuse for Erestor to extend his stay in Imladris quite a bit – when even Elrond and his warriors can’t break through, no one can expect Erestor to try, after all.

Love the idea of Háran coming over and barking until he gets his ‚Good morning’ from Erestor :)

Anyway, it was another lovely description of the early days in Imladris and how it was growing into the refuge we all know so well, and how things were during this siege. And of course, to watch Erestor and Glorfindel together in these first days was the icing on the cake. Great to see they get along in RL as well as in their letters. And this clearing where they had their picnic really sounds like the perfect place for their first kiss :)

Kei, I enjoyed this tale so much and really appreciate the time and research you put into all these many little details about everyday life, about farming and building shelters and all they did to build a new home for themselves. Not to mention the slowly building friendship between Fin and Res. It was lovely, and I know I’ll re-read this one frequently. Thank you so much!

**hugs**

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

And thank you so much, Kitty, for reading and commenting from the start and for all the encouragement you've given me *hugs*!

Brennil was the only person Res was likely to confide in enough to show all the little details of his new life, and I wanted to let him describe Imladris and of course talk about the progress of his relationship with Fin - very important, lol. I'm glad you liked the idea - a letter, but not quite the same as before. And yes, he has the perfect excuse to stay now, for at least three years. And after that, I'm not sure Gil-galad will have the heart to insist he come back to Mithlond.

I am going to miss writing these letters, but I don't know that I'll miss the desperate forays into Wiki half way through a chapter as I realise I don't know what flax looks like or whatever :D

Oh, and the cats --- Erestor HAD to take the cats along. He didn't know he wasn't going home any time soon (the siege lasted something like three years) but I did. I have cats. Felt terrible guilt at the thought of them maybe being neglected….. *g*.

*hugs you*

[aurie81.livejournal.com]

I was curious how you would write about Erestor's journey to Rivendell and his meeting with Glorfindel without breaking the format of this tale. By turning this chapter into a letter to Brennil you found the perfect solution.
It was great to see Imladris through Erestor's eyes but I also liked that he worried about those he left behind in Mithlond, like the adventurous Captain Balien.
The story was made vivid by the many details you gave us but you also managed to keep a balance so that they never became a distraction from the main storyline - the growing friendship of Erestor and Glorfindel.
This is a story I will certaily re-read; thank you for giving us such a wonderful conclusion (well, I could have done without the orcs, lol) to a great tale. I would love to read more about those two, so I'm very happy to hear you are considering a sequel.
Thank you!

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

I was really stuck for a bit, trying to work out how on earth to finish off, lol. I thought of writing the final letters as coming after a successful visit (which I felt was cheating, it certainly wasn't what I'd want to read), I even considered a short fic, which wouldn't have been the same thing at all. And then I realised Brennil was the one person Res would confide in and would want to share all the details about his new life (and love) with. It was so obvious I couldn't believe how long it took me to think of it.

Glad Res didn't come across as being so involved with his new surroundings that he wasn't properly concerned about everyone he'd left behind. I got very fond of the people like Captain Balien, he of the bridge-building ambitions, who got mention in the To Do list but never showed up in the letters. Like Res, I hope he's okay.

Thank you for the feedback, and for the compliments about the series, and for sharing the journey. I am so happy you enjoyed Conversations 11. Getting an ending right is one of the hardest parts of writing, I think - I'm thrilled that you liked it.

**hugs**

Orcs on the high ground - yes, could definitely have done without them. Though of course if they hadn't shown up, Res would have needed to go home after a month :D

General review full of random comments

[tuxedo-elf.livejournal.com]

These are the most delightfully realistic letters, they truly read as an exchange between two people. I love the way the style gradually and slowly changes from formal to friendly. It’s a very natural progression.

It did take me a little while to get into it, but I think that’s natural given the difference of style in this fic.

The details you put into this are amazing. It was worth the effort because it really helped to bring it all alive. I think I learned a bit just by reading it!

Speaking of details, I LOVED the ‘to do’ lists! What a fantastic and amusing glimpse into Erestor’s daily life!

It’s an interesting concept, putting Glorfindel in charge of building Imladris, but it makes sense and is quite plausible. Different from many versions where he arrives to a fully-built Homely House.

Small niggle: I was surprised at Glorfindel needing to be told about Lórien, since it predates the first age. Mind you, the location would have changed since then!

I didn’t expect such a balanced view of Gondolin, knowing your views on it, but I think you described it very well and gave sensible reasons for things being as they were.

I loved the OCs you worked in, especially Sael and I grinned a lot when you said he was Lindir’s father! Will you be using him again? *Hopeful look*

Hooray for goats!

Thank you for not portraying Silvans as less than other Elves. That’s always annoyed me and I found the respect they were shown here very refreshing.

I wondered how you were going to handle the last letter, as they would have met by then – great idea, using Erestor’s sister. Though I did wonder where he sent it to, if he didn’t know where she was! :P

And just in case the world hasn’t imploded yet – yes, I’m glad it worked out for them! *Grin*

This is now the length of a short fic, so I think it's a good time to shut up!

*Hugs*
Tux

Re: General review full of random comments

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

Hey :)

Oh wow, this is such a wonderful review! (not saying 'is this really you?', LOL) I'm thrilled you liked this unlikely fic. Thank you so much, love. I never thought anyone would find it interesting really, I just wanted to see how it would turn out and then got sucked in by the people and the research and…. Yes, well, lol.

The lists? I like lists *g*, the ultimate procrastinator's tool. And it got me into Erestor's space, because otherwise it was far easier to work out how Glorfindel's day would look than his.

Glorfindel went from Vinyamar sort of straight to Gondolin, and the lands he knew had all vanished under the waves by the time he came back. Even if he'd heard of it, finding Lorien on a map would be a challenge? That's what I thought anyhow - can discuss?

Gondolin --- I like things to make sense :D I think it must have been like living permanently under siege though, and very harsh in many ways.

I see the Silvan elves as a bit like the San here, an ancient race and very in touch with the land. I suspect the respect they received in Imladris might have been unusual in a city setting though - different priorities perhaps.

Res knew the letter would reach Brennil, because Gildor sends someone to Mithlond regularly to carry information and also deliver and pick up mail. Later, Gildor gives the letters to people going in the right direction, and eventually (rather like current postal services) mail reaches its destination. Simple really *looks proud*. A couple of Christmas cards I sent out have taken almost two months to arrive, this might well have been faster.

And, hehe, you were even glad things worked out for them *big grin*. Though I'm really looking forward to more from the fic where they didn't work out, so --- go write!

Thank you for reading, dear.
*hugs*

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

I've been slow to respond to this because I've been trying to work out how on earth to answer such a wonderful review. I suppose I should start with thank you? I love your comments, you are such a thoughtful reader and really notice the smaller touches that are always the most fun to write and for me are usually the clearest pictures - like the children racing off to be with their father, like Fin waiting quietly, not wanting to spoil the reunions. (I rather fell in love with Fin)

Except for one part that I struggled to write and which had me telling my poor, long-suffering beta how much I LOATHED this story, it's been a great writing experience, even with all the (sometimes strange) research. The letter format was frustrating at times, but the discipline was good :D I think you might have picked up how much I loved writing this final part and trying to see Imladris through Erestor's eyes - the way I originally outlined things, I'd have skipped the visit and written the last letter when he got back home, so this wasn't expected but I think all the ideas were already in place and waiting :)

I remember when I finished Doubt, how much I missed that sense of needing to get on with it, of knowing exactly what I was meant to be writing and how long it was taking me to get down to it - I'm already missing that *g*. Like missing a friend. But -- happy too, yes, as you say. It felt like it ended right, and that's the hardest thing to do so I feel really good about that.

* Some of your stories have stuck in my mind like the prisms of a rainbow and I look forward to whatever other lovely stories you share!* That really is such a lovely thing to say, thank you Levade. I have the three pieces I did for Zhie's Winter Festival still waiting to post, two WIPs sitting on my hard drive, a hutchfull of bunnies --- and the ficcies for the time stamp meme (have to write what happened x number of years after the end of a designated fic…. I have five requests for Conversations, plus two others). I'm not quite sure where I'm going after that... With luck the meme will get a few things out of my system so I can approach something else fresh, lol.

I think it's too late at night for me to answer comments, I'm rambling all over the place. Apologies :D

Again, thank you so much.

**hugs**

[mithrial.livejournal.com]

I was so glad to find the last part of this story tonight when I had time to relax and read in peace.

I've loved the building of the relationship and the picture of Imladris described as the letters progressed. I wondered how you would write their meeting and this letter to Brennil was a perfect solution.

I feel having read this story, that I have learnt so much about the building of Imladris and the characters involved. This is now my canon. All from the deep and believable description and your character writing.

I imaging everyone reading it will feel the same. Not just a beautiful love story, but a wonderful history too.

*hugs*

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

I feel having read this story, that I have learnt so much about the
 building of Imladris and the characters involved. This is now my canon.
 All from the deep and believable description and your character writing.

That's such a stunning thing to say, thank you so much, Tia. It's a wonderful compliment.

I'm glad you liked the ending, I was worried about getting it right. I had all sorts of ideas, the main one being that Erestor would write to Glorfindel on his return to Mithlond and they could talk about the visit, but it somehow felt a bit of an anti climax. Then I remembered Brennil, who I had originally planned to send to Imladris ahead of her brother and realised this was the one person he would tell (almost) everything to. And it was only fair --- after all, Fin had a whole chapter to himself, too :)

I've been asked to write more in this 'verse - clever people caught me with the Time Stamp meme - so it's not totally over, though the format will change. I've complained about this to anyone who will listen but truth is I'm happy not to leave their story quite yet, lol.

Again, thank you so much for reading and for your lovely comments :)

**hugs you**

[mithrial.livejournal.com]

I'm happy too. :)

Yo! for the 'Time Stamp meme'.

*hugs*

late and loooong reply

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

Before anything, I need to apologise for taking so long to respond to your comments. No excuses - I had flu, everything went on hold, and I've been owing comments and enails all over the place... I am really so sorry, please forgive?

Letters make for an incredibly restricting format at times, don't they? A very narrow POV, no way to move beyond it. And with two characters in each chapter, I found it hard work trying to give each a different 'feel'. I nearly drove Red crazy whining about that at times. I also knew nothing about farming and plant life in the north of England, something that also didn't occur to me when I started, lol. Spent a looot of time on Wiki *g*. Still, it was the story I wanted to play with in the year I took off from tying my life down with swap fics, and it certainly stretched me, which is a good feeling. Mainly (mainly) I had a great time writing it.

I'm rambling along here because I'm trying to find something adequate to say - thank you for a really generous and complimentary review, yes. And that I'm very touched you decided to read this even though they are a pairing you're not comfortable with. And I know this is a little thing, but thank you for mentioning you liked the names - I had such a lovely time looking for the right names for people, and bringing those people in and out of the story.

I'm not sure Doubt is the best thing I've written. After all, I spent a year and a half growing as a writer with it. There are bits I itch to tidy up now, though a very wise person advised me to let it be, it's how it was written (I did fix a few things that really bothered me on the website though *g*). Learned all sorts of lessons, including the importance of having a beta who understands how you write (biiiiiig lesson). Hidden Within is probably my best, though it might be Star's End, the Maglor first person. But Doubt is the one I love most, my other child, the story I still miss writing. I always feel so good when someone mentions it kindly - thank you, my dear. That was much appreciated *hugs you*.

My final comment on the E/G debate? It depends who's writing them. And believe me, I know - I came into the fandom when they were the It pairing, and I loathed them - still hate the Beautiful, Shy Advisor and the Big Warrior. But Tolkien said so little about them that they are wide open to interpretation ---- take my usual version, Talullah's, Aglerian's, Elfscribe's, add in fics by Hare and Manon and you'll be reading completely different characters each time - Erestor in particular, though Glorfindel will differ dramatically from writer to writer, too. And this means the dynamic between the couple also differs radically. I usually write Erestor as I do in Doubt, and he has nothing in common with how Hare writes him, and Tal's is a different elf entirely.

Though I know what you mean, really --- there are characters I seldom read except by a couple of writers who can get me to read just about anything (Tal even got me to read Bible slash :|).

Peace?

Once again, sorry I took so long to thank you, little bird. I hope all goes well with you and that you are finding good challenges to overcome.

With love *hugs*.

Re: late and loooong reply

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

And an even later response to the response. Was one of those months.

I think I've mentioned before that I felt Stray was more original fiction than anything to do with Erestor/Glorfindel. It's Erfan's core story, the version I think she feels closest to. I was very involved in the reworking of Price of Honesty, it's a story I grew to feel a strong connection to - mainly for her attempt to write about a couple who love and are willing to take chances and place trust in that love. I'm a romantic at heart - comes from living in such a harsh reality, I suppose *g*.

I've not yet been particularly drawn to Numenor, but I've loved much of Elfscribe's earlier work. She wrote a Glorfindel/Elrond, Lindir/OC that I utterly adored, and explained a lot about writing descriptions to me when I mailed her. Never forgotten that. Still one of the best 'snapshots' of the twins hunting orc that I've read.

I would never have thought of Inwe as a 'major' E/G writer, not compared to people like Fim, Sian, Kharessa, Maggie, etc, but it's always nice when something speaks to you. I did rather wonder what you'd found on LoM (recently at any rate) that did E/G justice. Hare's fic was an old fashioned E/G angst - haven't been any for a while, was a stage there were at least three running at any given time. The more things change, the more they stay the same, lol. I think it's a matter of people liking certain types of story, so they keep coming back. Like Inwe's current E/G stories - there were usually a couple like that on the late, (un)lamented Erestor group most weeks, but that was when the fandom was very busy. Was the alternative to the Shy, Beautiful Advisor and the Big, Brainless Balrog Slayer (I have never got the appeal of fics like that, though I suppose they satisfy something in some people)

I was sort of torn where the SWG AinA was concerned - Dawn said she'd love a piece if I could manage and then let me battle it out with my common sense. However, I wasn't keen on writing something else around the same time as the Amor in August, and the slots that interested me most would have coincided with what I imagined would be my editing time, so I sat it out. Still have a couple of ideas I might pursue later.

You take care, dear.

[lonely-lycanth.livejournal.com]

I have been out of this fandom for a very long time, so you probably don't know I exist, but even after so long, I'm glad to see the best of us are still writing. Let me tell you, I had a really hard time finding anything good to read--either a lot of people left, or I've learned a bit more about writing. That all said, this was a treat, and I was really glad to read it. Tux had recommended it to me, saying you got nominated for MEFA, and it was definitely deserved.

Do you mind if I follow your journal, so as not to miss your next project? I used to follow your work, back in the day, and would like to do so again.

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

I'm glad you enjoyed Conversations, thank you so much for reading. It was lovely of Tux to rec it :)

*either a lot of people left, or I've learned a bit more about writing* Lol! Probably a bit of both. Things have got a lot quieter, unless you know where to look. A lot of good writers ran out of challenges and moved on, though I've noticed a few people wandering back to have a look lately. I do remember your name from a few years back, and you're most welcome to follow my journal. I don't lock my fiction, and it's tagged if you want to look through - or there's my website if that's easier -- Braided Light (http://keiliss.fluffydragon.co.uk/).

I see you're working on a fic, I look forward to reading it :)

[lonely-lycanth.livejournal.com]

:D I actually already added you. I just think it's more courteous to let people know you're doing it. The nature of this fandom, I think, is that every few years or so, people either wander off or come back.

Yes I am! I certainly hope it'll be okay. The fandoms I wandered off to didn't have as high a par as I remember the Tolkien fandom having, so I'm a bit nervous about posting. I just got it back from beta, though, so I'll put it up in my writing journal probably tonight, and then figure out where the heck to link to it, which seems to be the tough part... I certainly hope you enjoy it!

[encairion.livejournal.com]

I LOVED this story!!!! I found it on another site, but couldn't comment since I wasn't a member. I am glad I found you here, since I love your work ('Even Quicker Than Doubt', as well!) But I need to read more of it!

You defiantly bring a new out look to well known characters. Those are the best kinds of story's- coupled with good writing of course, and you have them bother down :)

'A little more Conversation' was so beautifully detailed. I have read a lot of Glorfindel/Erestor story's (hell there's a ton of them out there :P) But I can honestly say this one stands out :)

What I like most about it is the time you spent on building their relationship. You drew it out and didn't just ump right into a sex scene without any emotional build up.

Thank-you for sharing! It was beautiful.

-Encairion

[keiliss.livejournal.com]

Hi :)

Lord, sorry I took so long to reply, it's unforgiveable. Specially as I want to say welcome to my flist and that I look forward to reading your fiction. I've glanced through and it's going to be such a treat! It's always lovely to meet other writers! Thanks so much for friending me

I'm thrilled you liked Conversations. It's funny, after all these months, after getting some lovely feedback and a MEFA first place for the story, I STILL get surprised when someone tells me they enjoyed it, and it's such a great feeling. I wasn't even sure anyone would read it - just seemed such an unlikely concept, though I've always loved reading letters.

I'm glad you liked the pace of their relationship. They were exchanging letters at a rate of one each per month, so once they finally met I couldn't imagine them rushing anything. And yeah, I've seen a lot of those 'just met, fallen into bed, bind in three days' type fics. Never quite got how that works, lol!

You read Doubt? Aww, thank you :) Doesn't matter what else I write, that will always be my baby and it's such a smiley feeling to know someone else read and liked it. Where did you find it? Must have been SWG. My website link - Braided Light - is on my journal, if you'd like to take a look around there some time. Everything I've written is on there, or should be.

*hugs*

[encairion.livejournal.com]

Thank-you for adding me! I am glad you liked the look of my fics :P I am still planning on reading more of yours, I seem to have gotten terribly behind lately :(

I think people love Conversations so much because it's different. You've given a breath of fresh air into a common pairing. It's such a different approach, everything from the pace, to the unique relationship between them. I like reading about Glorfindel and Erestor in the Second Age -I think it far more likely they would have met and fallen in love then :)

I honestly can't remember how I found your website before, but that's where I read Doubt. And yes I LOVED it! One of the all time best fics I've read! I love reading in the Sec Age! I loved the way you wrote Elrond and Elros -exquisite. Actually writing about it makes me want to go back and read it right now!!!

Thanks again for the add to your flist :D