The elves help the prisoners at Hosgrow to face fears and pain. Many of them are healed and released with a new chance at life. Everyone, and especially those that we have the worst time loving, have pain and fear and stress in their lives that causes them to act and react the way that they do. They aren't necessarily bad people, just lost and alone without the love of God in their lives. I can't think of anything lonelier than not having Christ in my life. I try to remember that when I see people who just don't seem to care and are totally absorbed in the world, flesh, and devil. (And I must remember it, too, when I fall victim to those things as well!) God helps us face our fears and pain (if we allow Him) and helps to heal us from them, giving us a new chance at life.
Ayden has some moments where he doubts and even fears his tasks and abilities. I feel that way so often myself, like maybe God goofed (which we know He is incapable of doing) and sent things my way that were too hard for me to handle. But He knows exactly what my purpose is and why I have certain gifts and tasks in my life. If I just put my faith and trust in Him, everything comes together, all in good time!