History Lessons: The Third Age by Nilmandra
SurgicalSteel · 25 September 2006 · Chapter 18: The Straight Road
Absolutely lovely - Elrond's brief glimpse of his father, the meetings with Gil-galad and Celebrian - Frodo's recognition of his dream. Made me sniffle.
Author's reply
I am glad it is over, I admit. The tone was melancholy, but I think that was appropriate. The next story will be of transition.. of final endings but of new beginnings too.
Lianna · 25 September 2006 · Chapter 18: The Straight Road
It's so good to see Elrond starting to focus on the beginnings of his new way of life rather than the endings of the old one. I hope, though, that he will at least get to renew his relationship with his wife for a while and maybe play tourist a bit before becoming hopelessly embedded in the politics of Valinor.
Author's reply
LOL, I am not sure how I see the politics of Valinor quite yet. The Eldar seem pretty harmonious about most things.. when they 'fall' they do it rather spectacularly (ie the kinslaying). But it is a new start, too, and I am glad for Elrond to be reunited with Celebrian and safe in her arms.
Elflingimp · 25 September 2006 · Chapter 18: The Straight Road
That was so wonderful I cant describe it!! and (sob) so very emotional, my only complaint is I cant go there!!
Author's reply
LOL, I might like to visit, but I don't think I'd want to stay. Like Frodo, I'd like to go for a time but I'll be more than happy to pass beyond the circles of the world when my time comes. :D
shirebound · 25 September 2006 · Chapter 18: The Straight Road
I know you've been working up to this chapter for a long time, and you did a beautiful job. That moment between Elrond and his father was very touching and awe-inspiring, as were all of the emotions and reunions at Tol Eressea. You really gave us the feeling of a 'journey' -- towards hope, renewal, and healing.
Author's reply
I am glad you liked the ending. This story was long in the writing and I'm glad Elrond is finally home. And there are always more stories. :>)
daw the minstrel · 25 September 2006 · Chapter 18: The Straight Road
This was a very moving chapter. Everyone on that ship is leaving one life and going toward another. They're uncertain of the journey and of what they will find at the end, and they're already worn down from long years of struggle. So the movement to hope and joy is wonderful to see. As always, I like the way you pick up and use bits of canon, like Frodo's dream in the Barrowdowns.
Author's reply
I was thinking of how far the pendulum has swung, from low points of weariness and despair to highs of hope and joy. It must be very tiring, and they will be glad for a good long rest. Good thing others are there who are glad for a challenge, like acclimating new arrivals and making them feel at home.
Nikara · 24 September 2006 · Chapter 18: The Straight Road
Wow. Yet again, an amazing few chapters. Elrond's pain and suffering are perfectly captures, especially when contrasted to his joy at seeing Celebrian again. I hope this isn't the end, it feels like we still have a few things to cover!
Author's reply
I have more chapters written, but today when I reread this, I thought it felt too much like an end - a very good place to stop. So I changed the story to complete, and will work that which remains into its own story. :D
meckinock · 24 September 2006 · Chapter 18: The Straight Road
I think this chapter broke the record for the number of times you had me bawling. The whole entire ship passage, for starters. There's something about the idea of moving between worlds that's so mystical and magical and spiritual. The imagery and symbolism of the straight way was so powerful. And the departure from ME meant so many different things to different characters, yet you addressed it all beautifully. Frodo and Bilbo, leaving the only home they had ever known; Elrond, being reunited with his father and *Kleenex* Celebrian and *two Kleenexes, because it was so unexpected* Gil-galad; Galadriel, with her trepidation, and finally, Gandalf, transfigured at last into his true self. What a beautiful, inspiring, and uplifting chapter.
Author's reply
I am glad you thought it worked - I had one of those 'this is the most boring uninspiring things I have written' moments yesterday. Such a trip had to be bewildering.. I'd be glad for someone like Celebrian waiting there to take charge and find me a place for a good long rest.
French Pony · 24 September 2006 · Chapter 18: The Straight Road
I love the idea that all of the travelling Elves feel their great age slowly being stripped away. For all that they are ancient of days in Middle-earth, they are the kids and grandkids once they get to Valinor. It will surely do Elrond a world of good to be five years old again. And how wonderful for him that he got a little tiny glimpse of Earendil! I think that was my favorite part of the whole chapter. That must have been a permanent hole in his psyche, always wondering about his biological father, and there's a little bit of healing right there.
Author's reply
I am glad you liked that part - of Elrond being a child in wonder again, and Galadriel being someone's daughter. Such experiences humble us and take us right back to our roots. I was glad when Earendil showed up. I hadn't expected it - he was just there when Elrond looked up!
Dreamflower · 24 September 2006 · Chapter 18: The Straight Road
Wow! *sigh* That was beautiful. I'm speechless.
Author's reply
I am glad you liked it. I was a bit melancholy myself about the end, so I am glad it worked. Thanks for reading.
elliska · 10 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
Yeah, my DSL is back and I get to read! This was great! Bilbo's 'when do we leave' was so perfect for him. Much better than the way PJ made him in the movies. And I really love that Imladris with the help of the twins, becomes part of the Kingdom of Men. That seems very fitting since it was always a haven for anyone in need and had been founded and ruled by the Half Elven. And I just prefer that idea to the idea of it fading away and decaying. But Elrond's departure from the house where so much had happened made me cry. As happy as he was to be rejoining Celebrian, leaving so many memories must still be sad. And by his goodbye to the twins, I was bawling. He had felt old since he was a youth himself, fighting in the War of Wrath, and since Vilya’s loss of power he had felt weary beyond hope. Thin and brittle, breakable. Could he become as his sons wished, as he wished? “Yes, you can and will,” replied Elrohir, and he smiled at his father’s look of surprise. Really well done here. That was very powerful and said a lot. And I never stopped bawling. I loved the scene you wrote for the birth of the twins when you posted in your LJ and I really loved reading it in context here. And their final departure was excellent. Estel. That was perfect. Great chapter!
Author's reply
This story has made me cry much, as I think about loss and change and pain. I would not wish to be immortal in the way the elves are for all the money in the world. I am glad you liked this; I am glad that I am nearly done too. I want Elrond to find peace soon.
Dreamflower · 7 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
So much pain and sorrow in this parting--for Elrond from his sons, for Celeborn from his wife, for Sam, Merry and Pippin from Frodo--for all of them from Mithrandir/Gandalf. The Sundering Sea has rightfully earned its name. You have dealt with it in such a wonderfully insightful way, mingling the bittersweet poignancy of a farewell, with a hope for the future of Middle-earth, even when it would become bereft of Elves. When I was young, and read the ending of LotR for the first time, I was devastated--all that they had gone through to put the world to rights, and then they are rewarded by having to give it all up, and to be sundered from those they loved--not only those leaving, but those left behind. Even now I find it painful--and sometimes seek solace in AUs where this pain is overcome and they can find peace without having to sail--a sweet analgesic, though not very lasting. They are not without their own charms, and make a delightful holiday from what "really happened." But over the years (39 since first I read the books) I have come to understand with each re-reading that the pain is a part of the greatness of the story. A conventional happy ending would have made of it nothing more than a run-of-the-mill fantasy. It was JRRT's courage in knowing just how entwined true joy and pain are, and in showing us that this was as happy an ending as was possible that gave us an enduring classic worthy of being called the greatest book of the 20th century. And I salute you for your courage in examining this pain in such a deep and personal way, taking us further into the mind and heart of Elrond Half-Elven than his creator ever did, and in breathing life into him for all time. And we can read this and anticipate the joy that awaits him with his reunion on the Western Shore.
Author's reply
But over the years (39 since first I read the books) I have come to understand with each re-reading that the pain is a part of the greatness of the story. I only read the books for the first time a few years ago, and this is precisely what attracted me to the story. I know just what you mean. Everything of great value cost something. For every beginning there is an end, for every victory there is great cost, for everyone who gains, someone must lose. While it seems that the victors should gain, that is not always so. I loved LotR because of the Grey Havens chapter, because not everyone lived happily ever after. I doubt I will do justice to what lies beyond the Sundering Sea, save to say that I hope that peace is found for these ones at last.
Dreamflower · 7 September 2006 · Chapter 16: Cup of Sorrows
What a beautiful, sad and tender chapter! I did not realize I had missed a chapter until I started on the new one... The farewells are so heart-breaking, and yet they are also filled with a sort of hope as well. I don't read a good deal of Elf-fic, but you are one of about four Elf authors that I *do* read and enjoy on a regular basis--and you seem to have so much insight into Elrond. As this winds down to the Ending of the Third Age, you seem to make so much clear to me, about things that I had not thought of a good deal, being focussed more on the hobbits. I loved the flashback, of toddler Arwen trying out her independence for the first time--there was so much love and good humor there, and we see also just *why* letting go of his daughter was so painful to Elrond--her pulling away had been difficult for him from the beginning. *sigh* We're coming to the end very soon...
Author's reply
Thanks, Barabara. I just realized I haven't responded to reviews either! I am glad you are enjoying this. It is amazing how many new angles one can see a story from simply by changing whose eyes you are seeing the story through. I've enjoyed getting to know Elrond. But yes, soon the story will end. :D
perelleth · 5 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
I'm glad that you managed to find some time for yourself.. and for us! ;-) I really like what you are doing with this, Nilmandra, filling in the gaps we all wondered about, and putting down conversations that must have taken place. While I do like Tolkien's understated, hurried treatment of the last days of these Elves on Middle-earth, I am really enjoying to see the "extended" version, which comes out very in character to me. Bilbo was great in his eagerness, and you are right, Bilbo *is* Ian Holm, and Ian Holm *is* Bilbo. I loved Glorfindel's easy manner with Erestor, and Erestor's efficient-till-the-last minute attitude. But I loved most the part when Elrond goes to a high place with Elladan and Elrohir and shows them the lands, (and the reference to the fires in AMon Sul) It really moved me, his acceptance of what shall come of all them in the Age of Men, and the last task he sets upon his sons. It all came out in a very powerful way to me. I too liked your version of the Grey Havens, far less poignant than Tolkien's, more full of hope and certainty of reunion, and elven centered! :-) And I am beyond words to read that there are more chapters to go! I feared it was just one left!
Author's reply
I was thinking when writing this that eveyone has a 'time' when they come into their own - Elrond's time has finished. this is all about 'ending well' for him.. but for his sons, they have 'work' left to do - a purpose, at least to see Aragron's inheritance come to its fullness. They will need to know when their work is done and figure out how to 'end well' too - an important thing to figure out pretty early on. A few chapters left! Mostly written too, thank goodness.
Elenluin · 5 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
Sad, but beautiful... Too bad that this magnificant chapter announces that the end of this story is near, at least I'm glad to hear that there are a few more chapters left!
Author's reply
It is true, all stories must come to an end. :( But there are always more stories that can be told. Glad you enjoyed. this is such a melancholy time.
French Pony · 4 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
Those two little babies are definitely all grown up now. They've acquired much of their father's wisdom recently, and they demonstrate it in the graceful ways that they take care of him in what is the closest he will ever come to "old age." Elrond is definitely ready to see Celebrían again. Who knows, all that practicing might lead to a few more kids who'd need their history lessons eventually!
Author's reply
This sudden letting go is an eye opener for Elrond that he is a parent still, but they are adults who can manage fine without him. I have oft wondered about that, when the generations do not die out, but live on like this. LOL at practicing. :D One never knows.
meckinock · 4 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
I loved Bilbo's instant enthusiasm for sailing. How perfectly Bilbo. Gandalf and Elrond are insightful to realize Frodo will need a little more time to come to his own decision. How agonizing it must have been for Elrond to leave Imladris, his home for thousands of years and a place of love and memories. I can just see him wanting to preserve the image of each room, each garden, each vista, in memory to never be forgotten, at least by the Eldar. The flashback to the twins' birth was sweet. I remember that LJ post! It's lovely to think they were so closely bonded that they didn't even want to be parted from each other long enough to be born.
Author's reply
I was glad to finally get to use this part! I wrote some happy Celebrian times after writing the orc attack and her sailing, just to get the images from my mind. The good news is that that means the next few chapters are mostly written. I like writing Bilbo.. I think in writing The Hobbit Tolkien made his character very alive and full of personality, more so than he did in his more serious works. I love Ian Holm as him too, but wonder if he won't be too old by the time they make the Hobbit into a movie.
Jay of Lasgalen · 4 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
What a lovely, long, detailed chapter! There was so much I liked about this - Elrond climbing with his sons until they could look out over the whole of Imladris; Glorfindel's version of 'diplomacy'; and the fact that Elladan and Elohir were there at the Grey Havens. It may not be canon, but I'm certain they were there. I also agree with your reasoning that Tolkien implies the twins did eventually sail - if only because I want them to. I *thought* I'd read the part about the twins' birth before. I like the way they were desperately holding hands, even though it delayed Elladan's birth; and the way they only began to suckle when clasping hands again. Celebrían's words that 'Elrond didn't suck so hard' are wicked! I love it :>)
Author's reply
I was glad to finally get to use this part that I wrote so long ago! At least half of each of the next four chapters is written, though I will have to modify to deal with some threads I hadn't conceived of back when I started. Especially the theme of the Dominion of Men and the role the twins played during the time of Aragorn's reign.
Bodkin · 4 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
Bidding farewell to Imladris must have been really hard. Not as bad as leaving Arwen - or, probably as saying farewell to Elrohir and Elladan, even if he can feel fairly sure that they will join him in time, but still bad. It's the place where most of his happiest memories lie and it's somewhere he will never be able to return to. Climbing the cliff to see it all from that vantage point ... well, I'm glad E2 were with him. (And that he can here the echo of the sea in Elrohir. That must be some reassurance.) It must have been a relief, in the end, for the journey to start and know that he was on the way home to Celebrian. I loved Bilbo's enthusiasm for the journey - and Frodo's reluctant understanding. And the flashback to the twins' birth was delightful. A moment of pure happines in Elrond's life - with any of the 'buts' that seemed to accompany his milestones hidden away. Loved Galadriel supporting them both through the birth and Celeborn attempting to steal away his grandson for extra bonding. And I love the idea that the interregnum is the last flush of the elves graceful handover of power rather than a desperate attempt to cling on to the end of glory.
Author's reply
The Dominon of Men really struck me in this chapter, that the hand over was not from Elrond to his sons, but to Men, to Aragorn and Arwen, though it seemed to make sense to have his sons steward the changeover. That really changed how I thought of much of the events. I love writing Bilbo - he has an easy voice and he is still full of adventure, even now.
SurgicalSteel · 4 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
I love your portrayal of Bilbo. Just love it. And Celebrian's experience with the twins was absolutely marvellous.
Author's reply
I find Bilbo the easiest of the hobbits to write. Sam has a pretty easy 'voice' too, but the other three I only feel somewhat comfortable with.
daw the minstrel · 4 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
I truly love your portrayal of Bilbo. He's still so eager for new adventure. You did a really nice job with this, I think. I like how you show them preparing for the twins, whose will help the transition into the time of Men and support their sister. And Glorfindel just shines. I wish the Valar would send me someone like that. Well, in more ways than one, I wish that, but he'd be nice to have for counsel too. :-)
Author's reply
Glorfindel is a bit idealized, but hey, we all need a friend like that! I have thought he may have had a hard time letting Elrond go off with out him, but staying with Elrond's children is the biggest gift he can give. I'll be glad when they're all reunited in Valinor.
shirebound · 4 September 2006 · Chapter 17: The Dominion of Men
“Me?” gasped Bilbo. “Sail with the elves to Aman?” He struggled to his feet. “When do we leave?” Mithrandir nodded, then smiled. “There are many in the West who would do well to have a hobbit in their care.” I do love those lines! This is a marvelous chapter, Nilmandra. I like how Elrond gave Frodo and Bilbo the news, and gauged their individual reactions. And wondering whether the eagles would remain... and likening his own sons and household to eagles themselves... Truly wonderful.
Author's reply
I am glad they were able to see hope at this time. It is an end, and where they are going is an unknown to them, but I do like that Bilbo never lost his sense of adventure. He was probably an encouragement to them all!
Del · 3 September 2006 · Chapter 16: Cup of Sorrows
Please, please, I'm pleading. I've checked everyday since I found this installment awaiting more. Oh please finish it out. Yours, Del
Author's reply
LOL, sorry Del! Real life has been a bear all summer. I will have a chapter up by Monday and the last four are mostly written after that. Life is still a bear, but hopefully I'll finish the story pretty quickly.
Del · 8 August 2006 · Chapter 8: The Sons of Elrond
I was correct. I did continue to weep. However, as I have now crept sniffling from the darkness and found that hope has not died all away, (and it has just turned on 4:15 AM) I believe I will take my rest now and dream of joyful happenstances. Thank you, Del
Author's reply
Oh, sorry to make you continue to cry... but thrilled you thought this was worth giving up precious sleep to do it! Things do get better, but unfortunately there is much pain to go. :/
Del · 8 August 2006 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer
Showing the same propensities I did the last time I read your work, I sat down four days ago and started reading your History Lessons series. Once again, I worked my way through HL1 and HL2 in under two days. Then I dithered. I procrastinated and I futzed around. I started HL3 no less than four times simply because I didn't want to read this part. But, this afternoon, I sat down with my teapot and I read it. And I wept. Oh, how I wept. You have reduced me to quivering tears with startling and ruthless efficiency. I expect that I shall weep more before I'm finished. This continues to be staggeringly gorgeous work and satisfies my lyrical soul. It also continues with lockstep canonical accuracy and feeds my analytical mind. Thank you, Del
Author's reply
I am glad you liked this, despite all the sorrow and pain that these characters were living through. Such times are character building, and all those tears shed did much to purify their souls. Thank you for reading.
SurgicalSteel · 6 August 2006 · Chapter 16: Cup of Sorrows
*sniffle* This was completely heartbreaking, and utterly lovely.
Author's reply
My heart broke writing it, I admit. :/