This is very good.

Such very different scenes, each of them well described in its own terms, and the movement backwards through time--from experience to innocence--really works.

(In other words: this one stings my heart.)

The story that moves backwards. I've told you before, but I will tell you are, it's beautiful.

<i>“I am your friend, then?” Findekáno said this tentatively, as if he expected to be rejected, or, worse, laughed at.</i>

Awww! Wee Fingon! Just as charming as adult Fingon. I've very light and funny Fingon and Maedhros and had people tell me it made them cry. Well, that was due to Tolkien's original. In this case, you take us on a journey from the heartbreak of Unnumbered Tears to the beginning of a beautiful friendship--a big boy and a little boy in Valinor, who already have a special attachment.

I loved this. It was beautifully written and emotionally poignant. I loved how you used the reverse chronology; it was heart-wrenching to see what they became and then see so evocatively what they had been. I got the gut-twisty feeling more than once! :)