As attached as I am to other stories in your canon, I think this might be your best.

Whoa. Really? That's high praise! Thanks so much!

I agree that it is, as others have noted, nearly overwhelming at times, but the small details are mesmerizing and necessary to give the depth of characterization which you achieve.

And thanks again. The brutal imagery, while difficult, is not gratuitous, but required for what I was trying to convey in Mairon's (as I see him) character. I invariably extrapolate this to real life villains, who commit horrible acts, whether as a violent criminal or a despot, and who also, if one looks deep, have those moments of caring and love. It's a wrenching exercise, so I hopefully have applied it here.

Huin's collage is fantastic! Stark and effective.