this is lovely <3 I really like Aulë's thoughtfulness and understanding, and cake is so good for times like those!

Yes! Cake always makes things better! 

Also, that's quite the thing, to feel responsible for such awfulness. I hope Mahtan gets over that. 

Oh, poor Mahtan! It makes so much sense that he would feel this way. But it's lovely that Nerdanel can tell Aulë, who understands perfectly and is so willing to come and help him. Baking is such a good distraction - I wonder what flavour Aulë went for? :) I really enjoyed this! 

this made me emotional 😭 I had never thought about Mahtan seeing himself as somewhat complicit in the Kinslaying from having taught Feanor the art of metalworking, but it makes a lot of sense.  And Aule knowing how he feels!  For the same reasons!!  I hope they made a really great cake.  Thank you for writing and sharing this, what a powerful interpretation of the prompt <3

Aulë has the right idea, and I do feel sorry for any Eldar or Ainur who don't like cake 🍰 (other food groups are of course available). 

Aw this is so sweet, Aule knows how to make someone feel better.