I like the banter between these two! It's grouchy but obviously affectionate as well.

""We are building a city for refugees, Erestor. It is meant to be a haven, a sanctuary. It must be accessible, not remote,""

I liked that line! It's a very "Elrond" thing to say, I think.

""The House of Fëanor and that pledge of mine died on a bloody field in Eregion, lashed to Sauron's banner and pierced by Orc arrows,""

The contrast between Elrond's hopeful enthusiasm and Erestor's blunt cynicism is fun to read!

""He has experience defending Gondolin, which was in a valley, although one much larger in scale than this one. He should be able to use that knowledge to our benefit here. He has adequate training battling Morgoth's creatures, I'll give him that.""

I really like the analysis of why Glorfindel was chosen for this role! It makes sense, though I'd never given it any thought before.

Great story!