Cathelm asked:
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What about Shadowfax's origin, and the reason why he has no equal?
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I think that Shadowfax, for some genetic reason, has inherited the same qualities Felaróf had, and that were not evident on his ancestors (although they were mearas as well). If you look at the description of Felaróf, it is said that
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Eorl stood up and called in a loud voice: "Come hither, Mansbane [Felaróf], and get a new name!" To their wonder the horse looked towards Eorl, and came and stood before him [...]
Eorl rode him without bit or bridle, and he rode him in like fashion ever after.
[...] he [Felaróf] would allow no man but Eorl to mount him
Appendix A; The House of Eorl
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This description of Felaróf, and his 'friendship' or 'loyalty' towards Eorl, strongly reminds me of the relationship between Shadowfax and Gandalf. That is why I think that probably, Shadowfax was very similar to Felaróf.