Reviews (376)

Larner · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 4: The Lord of Abomination

One of the easiest ways to know unwarranted guilt, to find your mother has been captured and wounded on your watch. Has to be among the worst things these can imagine. Excellent use of description.

Larner · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 3: Man of Skill

And so the Lost becomes Lost no more, but finds his identity and begins to think of the place he will have in the world. A moment for consideration, of course, as Estel learns to become Aragorn, already having met his kinsmen and proving himself among them. But also a moment of confusion as the accustomed identity must be cast off.

meckinock · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

OK, too many good parts to remember, but these were some of my favorites: the bachelor party (oh, wait - the author didn't let us see what happened - bad author!); Elladan offering to do the Father-in-Law Talk - I'm trying to decide what that would have been like; Elrond's actual Father-in-Law talk - wonderful. His description of Gilraen and how difficult her life was was wonderful. Elrond deciding he has to get Aragorn away from Arwen to be sure of having is undivided attention; and best of all, the moment when Aragorn gives healing strength to Elrond. It was good to see Celebrian's presence was such a comfort to Elrond, and Galadriel, Glorfindel, and Celeborn were all there supporting him, too. I have to say that personally, I would not want my father knowing the exact moment that my wedding vows were consummated, but maybe Elves are accustomed to such intimacies (harking back to Daw's Men of Dale and their consternation at the commemoration of Begetting Day!) A wonderful chapter.

Karri · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

A sad, wonderful chapter, Nilm. It made me cry. *claps*

Amy · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

Well, I've read it twice already and am really savoring it. You portray all of their tenderness toward each other very well. The sorrow seems to sharpen the joy. I think that the elves must be feeling life so richly and fully at this moment. I loved Arwen's cry at the White Tree, and how she and Aragorn glow. Rivendell must have been a pretty complex household to manage, but a whole city full of people: yes, I think she'd be rubbing her hands with glee!

Lianna · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

This was lovely -- and just as it should be, I think. I had never really imagined the wedding from Elrond's perspective. But you do it very well. I love the idea of Celebrian and Elrond being in contact. It offers him support at a difficult time, and it pushes him to think about the future, with the prospect of joining her in Valinor and renewing their relationship, as well as the lost past. But I also like it for another reason. In several other people's stories of this time period, Elrond goes to Valinor facing the dreaded task of telling Celebrian that Arwen will never join them. In your version, she already knows. I am glad that your Elrond will be spared the ordeal of telling her. But what's with this custom of eating before the wedding ceremony? It's as bad as kids going to a restaurant before the Senior Prom! I have never been able to enjoy such occasions; there's too much risk of spilling food on one's fancy clothing. (Not that elves would ever drop an entire chicken leg in their laps, as I have done more than once. But the human servers might.)

Bodkin · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

This is so lovely, I'm saving commenting properly until I have time! But I just love your Elrond!!

Shemyaza · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

I very rarely comment on stories these days because real life has become too hectic, but.... Awesome as always. You make the characters live and the story unfold as anyone's imagination might wish.

Larner · 23 May 2006 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim

And so I have imagined that when an epidemic hit the region small Aragorn fell deathly ill, and they announced it around that he had indeed died, more easily slipping him out of Dunedain lands and into Imladris. This also works and works well. Love to see the reaction of Bilbo to the Last Homely House. Lovely!

The Karenator · 23 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

One of my favorite lines: “He looks forward to seeing you, and of course wishes me to remind you to keep good notes for his book.” I laughed when I read that. It's so Bilbo. Another great line: “We spoke that day?” he asked. A very sweet chapter. I like the way you worked out the logistics of who was going to stand with the bride and groom. Made perfectly good sense. And really, what a solid family. Everyone was already family, the wedding just made it more solid and began a new sprout off the family tree. Very nice. Elrond held up well considering how difficult it was. I particularly liked Celebrian's appearance and support. That's another place I thought felt very natural. I think they would reach out for one another at such a time. Her presence certainly seemed to help Elrond get through the wedding. And it made me want to get to the chapter where he sees her again for the first time. Not that I'm rushing you or anything. :>) Let's just say, I'm happily anticipating it. The father-in-law talk was nice. And hard for Elrond, I'm sure, but he was wise and let the joy Aragorn felt and his love for Aragorn guide him. Well done. Your version of the white jewel turned out VERY good. I like it. You gave it a nice history, one Tolkien would be proud of, I think. Nicely done, Nilmandra. Lovely wedding and the reception was delightful. I particularly enjoyed the Dorwinion Thranduil sent along as a gift. And I don't care what anyone says, I only had two glasses. There was a bug on that table. I was not dancing. This chapter was wonderful, as always. Can't wait for the next one.

Nikara · 23 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

Wow. This was an incredibly powerful chapter. I loved the way that Celebrian's presence took care of Elrond on that day. These stories never cease to amaze me. Great job!

Larner · 23 May 2006 · Chapter 1: The Most Hardy of Living Men

Am finally getting into this story, and love the first chapter. Yes, living with a two-year-old would be quite the adventure for this household, particularly as they realize just how fast compared to the twins and Arwen he will mature.

Dreamflower · 23 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

This is so beautiful, so very much in the spirit of JRRT himself. I'm not sure words of mine are adequate, but there is just so very much to love here. Elrond's bittersweet joy is depicted in a way that minds me so much of how things were in the books--how joy and happiness were painful, and how grief was somehow glorious! It truly is the essence of Arda--"joy beyond the walls of the world, poignant as grief..."

shirebound · 23 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

Ohhh, I really love that conversation between Frodo and Elrond. Frodo looked away, pondering his words, and Elrond felt a sudden gratitude that despite the loss of Vilya’s power, his healing and insight had existed before he wielded it, and still existed now. He soothed the hurt that existed deep within Frodo, and took his first glimpse of Frodo’s spirit. He found it in much the same condition as his own. Outwardly Frodo appeared well, for he did not yet realize the extent of the damage done to the core of his being. Elrond had no doubt that disquiet and discontent would grow. Nilmandra, this chapter is marvelous. Thank you for showing us this wedding, and for this glimpse into the love, grief, and strength that is Elrond. He felt strangely isolated, a feeling he had recognized and grown accustomed to on the journey south. Life was moving forward around him, while he seemed to shrink further away from it. He was swept along with the current, yet no longer in control of where it led him As Arwen spoke, Elrond felt the pain growing within him as his bond with his daughter strained and pulled from one of elvish life to that of mortal Amazing. And how wonderful that the jewel which brought you to fanfiction has finally found such an honored place in your epic tale.

daw the minstrel · 23 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

My favorite part of this is the comfort Celebrian offers Elrond. No one understands this as they do. They share this grief and always will. But they draw strength from one another's mere presence. And soon they'll be less alone because they'll be with one another.

paranoidangel · 22 May 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

I think I've started reading this twice and got interrupted but have finally made it through now! Oh, poor Elrond. Wanting to stay and see Arwen's children. Not being able to have a good excuse for Arwen to not give up her mortality. But since angst is good, I liked this chapter :)

Amy · 30 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Upon rereading, two scenes really gripped my heart: the elves singing at the sight of Arwen's banner, and the devices of the High King flying once again over the city and Elrond, speechless at joining Arwen's hand with Aragorn's The wedding comes later, and I'm simply panting for it, but the joining takes place right there. Aragorn kneeling as well as kissing her hand is just stunning.

Bejai · 24 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Wow, what a chapter. You wrote all of this so brilliantly that I'm nearly speechless, but I'll see if I can some up with some coherent applause. - the end of the One Ring. We all know how it is going to end up, of course, but somehow you managed to have me on the edge of my seat. Probably my favorite part is the flashes of Glorfindel we get. You know that he is just on the edge, ready to do whatever is necessary to protect Elrond, even if it means ending his life. Holding Arwen back until he knows for sure … ooffh. That hit me, and hard. - Just the feeling of … illness, inaction in Elrond throughout. He isn't dying, of course, but that's what it felt like. Watching a once-vibrant elder fade away. And Elrond becoming aware of his own weakness. I don't think he really is a weak person, but compared to who he was with Vilya's strength, he must feel utterly sapped. - Galadriel's wisdom, and her ability to lean back on her old wiles to support her, at least for a little while. - This was simply amazing: "he felt as if his heart were shredded, flayed, and the wounds that had been left behind could not be stitched closed, nor were the gaps small enough or few enough to simply be rewoven. Healing would take time. A very long time." What an apt way to put it. - Arwen's strength and joy as she moves forward with her life. - Irritated Elrond! That just rung so true. All these years, he has been master of so much, and now he cannot even master himself. Speaks volumes. - The youth of Eomer and Eowyn. They never feel that young in the books, but it seemed perfect to see that they truly are, especially compared with the ancient elves. Looking forward to where you take us next, as ever.

meckinock · 24 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Some striking visual images in this chapter - I had not thought that the smoke and ash from Mount Doom could be seen from Imladris, but when I think back to Mount Saint Helens, it's not so hard to imagine. Thank goodness for the west wind. And thank goodness for Glorfindel - a rock, as always. Poor Elrond, though - I don't suppose he could have imagined, when he rejected the Gift of Men so long ago, that in the end he would be forced to accept the doom facing every mortal - to leave behind the fruits of one's labor for the benefit of those who come after. Although it must bring him some solace to know he's free at last to reunite with Celebrian, what an agonizing parting he now faces. Elrond's weakness and disorientation following the destruction of the Ring must have been devastating not just for him to experience but for his family to watch. I suppose it must feel a little like drug withdrawal. Interesting how his reaction differs from Galadriel's (and what of Gandalf? Is a Maia affected at all?) Being less powerful than Galadriel, Vilya affected him more deeply. I hope that since he was a wise and powerful person before Vilya, he'll find himself again. Tough that he has to be strong for Arwen. But he toughed it out. A very bittersweet time for everyone, although I hope he finds some solace in the destruction of Sauron and the dawn of a new age.

Redheredh · 24 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Lovely chapter all way round. Arwen bidding farewell to Imladris got to me. So many other elves will be doing the same with Middle-earth and lingering loved-ones. I really sympathize with Elrond relinquishing his role, his powers, and finding it very hard to do. How does one graciously diminish and accept a more feeble existence. Certainly, a metaphor for aging mortals. He'll feel better when he gets to the Blessed Realm, I hope; and discovers tranquility is not all that bad. Almost to the end... :(

RS · 24 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Brilliant, Excellent! Wow! Is it panic or dread that I am feeling when Elrond realizes that Frodo is being taken by the ring? And what I sight it must be to see smoke and ash fill the sky. Amazing description! "I think I may faint" I love that line from Eowyn! I have always thought the part where Aragorn finally meeting Elrond and Arwen and the rest of the elves needed more than just the few lines that Tolkien wrote. You have enhanced it and gave it warmth and emotion! Arwen's emotions were so contagious! You can feel her pride in Aragorn and her exuberance. Such a proud moment of seeing the standard (gave me chills)! I don't know whether to cry for happiness or sadness---I'm a wreck! I truly enjoyed this. WELL DONE!

Karri · 23 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

A tense and very sad chapter, Nilm. Excellent job!

Lianna · 23 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Oh, poor Elrond. He reminds me of an elderly person who has been forced to give up his driver's license. He keeps having to remind himself that he can no longer do a thing that he long took for granted, and the loss of that ability diminishes him. For Elrond, of all people, to have to accept help from others and have them make allowances for his problem must be humiliating. And on top of it, he's facing eternal separation from his daughter. Tolkien never told us whether going to Aman actually helped Elrond or Galadriel -- or even Celebrian. I guess we have to take it on faith that they would do better in the Blessed Realm than in Middle-Earth.

perelleth · 23 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Galadriel shines under a new light here! I have been humbled by Celeborn’s care. Let go of your pride and let those who love you protect and comfort you. That was very compasssionate, perceptive and even ironic comment from her part, I really loved that! Great Galadriel, as she should be! The whole chaper is very well done. It must have been terrible for the Ring bearers, and they knew waht they were risking when that moment came. IT was the role of the elves in this end of age, I believe, to allow and to resist, and that is no minor deed. The effects upon Elrond are telling. It is hard for him to accept being diminished, and in this it is also clear the insidious effects of Celebrimbor's crafts... and the bearers' risk, mistake, chance, folly, in wielding them on the first place. Arwen is great. She is not sad, how could she be? and she knows that her hapiness also gives meaning to to all that is coming to and end with the Age. I also like the moment between Elrond and his sons, after Elladan's Great Line! Those stolen moments, with his sons reporting around gobletes of wine and a fire, and Elrond concentranting in waht they said rather than in the future rang very true to me. Such sadness among the general joy must have been difficult to sort out, even for elves! Wonderful chapter!

Lady Saruman · 23 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

This was a beautiful chapter — I really loved it in the beginning where all the suspense, all the tension, was. It is a good thing that Elrond has been able to track Frodo's process ever since the Fellowship had left Lothlorien. Then this is where the tension is. I remember it all too well. 'Suddenly the One sprang to life, wielded, and Elrond let forth an involuntary gasp. He grasped Vilya, ready to strip it from his hand, as he heard the ring claimed. Frodo? Frodo!' This must have been when Frodo claimed the ring as his instead of casting it into the fire. I wonder why Vilya gripped Elrond's finger when the One was wielded — maybe because the Three's connection with the One has caused it to have all these strange effects? After that, 'Then a lick of fire as sharp as a knife pierced him and all went dark.' This must have been when the One starts becoming undone, meaning that Frodo had succeeded (though mainly it was thanks to Gollum that the ring was destroyed) and it is rather dramatic for the feeling of a piercing knife. The idea of Elrond slipping into darkness whenever he tries to send his thought out to the valley rather makes sense. He is shorn of that power after Vilya's loss of power, and so now others are able to read him. If he wants to guard his thoughts again, this time without Vilya, then he'll have to get used to it, though I think it'll be hard since he is fading. The scene with Bilbo and Arwen was rather loving—their respect for each other is mainly what composes this love. Then, what Galadriel says to Elrond was perfectly true: when the Three diminish, then their wielders will diminish also soon after. But her statement confirms why Elrond has been feeling so unguarded (and is). 'I am stronger than you. My innate power is greater and the loss of Nenya’s power has less effect. You have less innate power and wielded the most powerful ring. The effect on you is as I expected.' That is perfectly true, after all. Elrond was the least strongest of the three ringbearers, and he bore the most powerful ring, so the two combinations would have created the most — for want of a better word — diminishing effect than the other two who was stronger than him. However, it is relieving that Elrond had been able to bear the ring for so many years without major trouble. The family reunion was not what I had expected — at least, not the “argument” part of it. After the ring’s power, it had caused him to change because of the growing uneasiness in his heart and thus speak coldly. When Erestor advises him I nearly laughed at what he said. I would have expected him to advise Elrond about guarding his mind instead of what to wear to meet Eomer and Eowyn of Rohan. But the end of their conversation was what I had expected. =) The conversation between Arwen and Eowyn was rather quite strange to me. Based on Eowyn's spirit I would never have expected her to be shy and say something like “You are beautiful”, but I guess the flawlessness and beauty of the Eldar must have caught her off guard. However, it was a really lovely conversation and I'm glad that Eowyn feels no resentment towards the love of the one that she had loved. When Arwen points out Glorfindel, and Eowyn says that she feels like fainting, I had the impression that she must have thought of him as breathtakingly beautiful instead of menacing because of the happy expression that you've put on his face. I really loved how Arwen had shaped and set the gemstones into the black banner in the pattern of the Valacirca's seven stars. Finally, it was a really beautiful coronation and they way that you made Elrond surrender the sceptre of Arnor. This was all done perfectly. I can tell that your story is reaching its conclusion. Are you going to write a story elaborating on the fourth age up until the point when Aragorn and Arwen die? This was truly a beautiful story. Have fun writing the conclusion! -Lady Saruman P.S. I did NOT have fun doing my homework, as you mentioned last chapter review — and I never will — after all, who likes homework when they have a whole list of things that they’d rather be doing? Lady Saruman