Naledi
· 17 May 2008
· Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom
I'm so relieved that they chose elvenkind. After Elladan's comments about his fascination with the Imperishable Flame, I thought he might not being able to resist the lure of finding out what lay beyond the circles of the world. I'd hate to think what it would have done to Elrond if he'd been parted from them both, but I agree wholeheartedly that Elladan and Elrohir had to chose the same fate.
That was beautifully done - thanks for sharing this with us.
Author's reply
A reviewer reminded me that in HLI the young twins promised they'd always be together. :>) I couldn't separate them, not easily!
I am glad you enjoyed.
Ces
· 17 May 2008
· Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom
You brought this story to a wonderful ending and managed to tie up all loose ends. It seems so obvious now what was troubling the twins, yet I'm glad I had to experience it through the eyes of Elrond and everyone else who was confused. It made it much more believable.
Excellent story and one I will be reading over and over again!
Ces
Author's reply
Ah, the power of POV. Staying in Elrond's (and Celeborn when Elrond wasn't around) was the key. I am glad you enjoyed the story - I much enjoyed thinking it through and writing it.
Agape4Gondor
· 17 May 2008
· Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom
Incredible ending to a beautiful story. I just loved every moment of it, even when my heart cried in pain, but it wasll all worth it. I loved how you pulled all the strands and threads together into a wondrous last chapter.
Blessings!
Author's reply
I am glad you enjoyed it, and that it came together in the end. Thanks for reading.
daw the minstrel
· 17 May 2008
· Chapter 5: The Ring of Doom
This was a compelling story because you left us with such a mystery. It's also a fascinating consideration of the nature of the half-elven. Both sides of their heritage are there somewhere and that has to leave them torn sometimes. I'm very relieved that in the end, you chose to make Elrond happy.
Author's reply
I think the end was a foregone conclusion unless I wished to face the wrath of an elf-lord in his fury. :>)
But the concepts are fascinating.
Agape4Gondor
· 17 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
All I can say is 'wow' - these chapters are almost excrutiatingly painful. Though it was a delight to 'see' Elladan grow and thrive... to see Elrohir fade is beyond painful...... Must have been very difficult to write. I hope you see 'hope' at the end of all this... I am beginning to wonder.
Author's reply
There is always hope :) The 'Man' in Elladan is exploring and seeking. As for Elrohir - well, he is dominated more by his Elf side. Poor thing.
Naledi
· 17 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
What an amazing experience for Elladan - to fly with the gulls and then sail on the Vingilot. But for some reason it brought a lump to my throat when Elrohir looked up at Earendil and realised Elladan was up there with him.
When Elwing spoke of her voyage to Valinor, something clicked and I think I might be beginning to understand what's going on. But I've still got loads of unanswered questions. I hope they get answered soon!
Author's reply
I so wanted to be with Elladan! Can you imagine flying? How cool is that?
I am glad you are intrigued. The last chapter is done and being beta'd and will be up soon. ;)
Redheredh
· 17 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
The visit with the grandparents was brilliantly revealing! I think I too suddenly know what ails Elrohir - and his discontented twin. At least, I am not afraid to guess. ;) Because, the peredhil premise is fascinating and speculating is fun!
Elladan is truly more like his grandfather than his father, and Elwing laid out his situation to him so clearly. But just like Earendil before him, it appears another will decide Elladan's fate for him. By the grace of the Valar, indeed. Elladan had to remind them of their pledge to Elrond. Not just Elrond and Glorfidel must have patience and wait, so must the Ainur. One must respect free-will and not exercise undue persuasion! Her brothers really do understand Arwen's choice better than her father ever will. Interesting what might have happened if Elrond had a beloved at the time. Perhaps Elros had a lady love and we just never heard about her...
Goodness, I am enjoying this story so much! And I don't care if I am foolishly reading too much into your wonderful writing and the next chapter proves me a silly girl.
Looking forward to the actual outcome as much as ever. :D
Author's reply
These concepts and premises are so great and wondrous and yet frightening, aren't they? Free will, dual natures, faith in what is seen vs unseen.
You are close to the mark. I will see if I surprise you!
Linda Hoyland
· 17 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
The flying was just magical!
I so pity Elrond and the twins.
Author's reply
I pity them too. The choice of the half elven may have been a gift, but it was one that came with much pain.
amber
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
I don't review often but I love your stories. I cannot believe you are putting Elrond through this. Is he to loose all of his children in one way or another?Is this the time he is going to say enough and not just take it? And why did he not become upset when called a "tool"? This is so rivetting that I hate waiting for the next chapter.
Author's reply
LOL, because neither Elrond, Irmo or I knew 'tool' was slang for something derogatory! A tool is a good and useful thing - and Irmo as master of dreams and visions gave Elrond his foresight and used him to help others. It was meant as a compliment, LOL!
And Elrond will find happiness. :)
Elfinabottle
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
You are *killing* me with this story. I never should have started it until it was complete, but I can't resist anything you write. Elrond can't possibly be more worried about Elrohir than I am.
At first I thought it was Elladan who would have been better off staying in Middle Earth. Now I'm thinking Elrohir should have stayed. But you said the sea longing was raging in him. Why would that be if he wanted to be mortal? Aarrgghh! I need answers.
I have to say I totally loved the whole part of the story where Elladan sailed Vingilot with Earendil. That was awesome. Please hurry with more.
Author's reply
I will post the final chapter Saturday. I am glad you need answers - I feel I have accomplished something here.
I wanted to be Elladan. I can't wait to find freedom beyond the circles of this world!
Mum's the Word
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
Nilmandra, I can't even begin to verbalize how wonderful and moving this story is! It flows so well with your "History Lessons" and other stories. All I can say is, you're tearing me poor heart out!
Wonderful, keep it up, beautiful, suspenseful!
Big, big hugs,
Mum
Author's reply
Oh, I'm glad. There is such joy in telling a real story like this. The HL series were so different in construction and writing. This is quite fun (unless you're half elven)...
Gwynhyffar
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
... Nilmandra
... I swear
... if put Elrohir through everything you have put him through and then finally got him to Valinor only to kill him off, I am NOT going to be happy!
Oh, and is it my imagination or did Irmo call Elrond a tool?
Author's reply
LOLOL, well you see, neither Irmo nor I knew 'tool' was slang for something bad! Tools are good things - and a good tool can be used to accomplish good things. That is all Irmo meant, that he guided Elrond in guiding others. :D
Jay of Lasgalen
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
*Whimper*
What's wrong with Elrohir? I still can't work it out. I think part of him blames himself for dragging Elladan along - yet Elladan seems to be thriving from all the new experiences. Perhaps that's it - Elladan is flourishing away from his twin, while Elrohir misses him.
This is a wonderfully crafted tale, because I just can't see where it's going!
Jay
Author's reply
LOL,that pleases me, Jay! I like this power of POV, for we are limited in this case to the perspective of Elrond and Celeborn, and feel their frustration (I hope). :D
Elflingimp
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
Well I guess I'm not as clever as some people around here(LOL) I still haven't figured out what is going on with Elrohir,but it is a beautiful story, I loved it when Elladan turned into a bird and flew with Elwing and also all the descriptions about the Vingilot and the stardust. Hope things get better soon, will be waiting Deb
Author's reply
I so wanted to be Elladan! There has to be soon privilege to being Peredhil, when so much has been asked of them and they have lived so long with dual natures.
I am glad I have held you in suspense. :>)
daw the minstrel
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
I loved the idea of Elladan flying. I can see how that would really appeal to him, and besides, it's in his blood.
It must about kill Elrond to watch Elrohis fade and be able to do nothing.
Author's reply
Elrond is learning much about powerlessness, and soon, misconceptions. :D
Ces
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 4: Conflicting Natures
I'm as confused as Elrond. I'm hoping Elrohir accepts help soon or it will be too late.
And can Elladan do anything?
The mystery deepens. I feel so sorry for everyone. Don't leave us in suspense too long!
Ces
Author's reply
The suspense will soon end, I promise. :)
Elfinabottle
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 3: Some who wander are lost
This is so sad, but at least there are hints of better things to come. I hope. You have me very, very curious. It was really nice to see Gandalf not burdened by his old man body. He's still as cryptic as ever, though.
One thing I wondered about...I know elves choose when to beget a child, but are they also able to choose the gender? Just wondered if that was canon or your own invention. Either way, I like the idea.
Author's reply
It is my own theory - based on the strength of the fear of the two elves and their desires. Not that Eru couldn't change things, of course :D
Gandalf is still cryptic. But I think he'll loosen up soon.
Redheredh
· 15 May 2008
· Chapter 3: Some who wander are lost
Gosh, I feel so sad for Elrohir. However, very glad that steps are being taken!! Like everyone else, I am wondering what really ails him. Maybe it's not his choice, but his very nature. Hmm, pretty Lindorie... smitten... both of them it seems... :D That was encouraging. Although, I got the feeling someone had contrived their meeting. Uhuh, definitely.
Loved the boat race! Nice to see someone having some real fun. The contrast of the different Swan ships as they represented their different breeds of captains was wonderful. Certainly looking forward to seeing Elwing's tower and Vingilot. Oh, and themselves too!
LOL! How kind of them all to wish the new daughter might take after her mother! Ah but, it would be a pleasant surprise if their baby was literally fair-haired, where all of Melian's descendants were only figuratively. ;) Talk about doting grandparents...
A very interesting chapter!
Author's reply
As always, you hit a little closer to the truth, Redheredh!
And doting grandparents, indeed. This will be child who will not have kin separated by the sundering seas.
Naledi
· 15 May 2008
· Chapter 3: Some who wander are lost
Oh dear! What is wrong with Elrohir, and why aren't the twins able to help one another? I hope Elladan finds what he needs on his journey and Elrohir finds healing in Lórien. At least you gave us a glimmer of hope with Elrohir's reaction to Lindórië.
Beautifully written, as ever! I can't wait for more.
Author's reply
There is always hope :D I am glad you are enjoying.
Tithenaru
· 15 May 2008
· Chapter 3: Some who wander are lost
OH MY - I have only now found this beautiful, bittersweet story and have just read all three chapters one after the other; I couldn't stop and am now feeling emotionally drained. I love peredhil fiction and especially that involving the twins, and this is a fantastic exploration of their relationship and choices. I'm really enjoying Celeborn p.o.v too. Great job, can't wait for the next installment.
Author's reply
I'm enjoying being in Celeborn's head! He may have his own peace to find about being in the west, but they'll get worked out by and by, maybe with his grandsons. Glad you are enjoying.
pipinheart
· 15 May 2008
· Chapter 3: Some who wander are lost
Very nice...
It seems both Elladan and Elrohir are following seperate journeys right noe. Elladan almost seems angry with Elrohir, and has left.
While Elrohir seems ill still and Elrond and party is taking him to find peace.
Love it...Can't wait to hear more...
Author's reply
The twins need to make these journeys separated from each other - that is indeed part of what I hope to show! Thank for reading.
Gwynhyffar
· 14 May 2008
· Chapter 3: Some who wander are lost
Okay-so maybe Elrohir didn't want to sail. ... and what the heck is up with him and Elladan??? Poor Elrond and Celebrian-trying to get ready for a baby and having a fading twin to deal with. The problem is that you are too good a writer and I can't figure out what's doing on! :D
Author's reply
LOLOL.. you're making me laugh, Gwyn. Can I say (without getting smacked) that I am glad you are as confused as poor Elrond? I am enjoying the storytelling - this is much different to write than other things I've written lately. :D
Agape4Gondor
· 14 May 2008
· Chapter 3: Some who wander are lost
Oh my is about all I can say. I am overwhelmed with Elrohir's pain. I hope beyond hope that he does not end up in Mandos' Halls....
Author's reply
Elrohir is indeed in pain. I think Elrond is finding it hard to bear as well.
Agape4Gondor
· 14 May 2008
· Chapter 2: Into the West
This was excellent - seeing the waiting on both sides was incredible.
What I most loved was 'seeing' those waiting in the West. Beautifully described and the actual reunion was terrific!
Author's reply
It had to be a good day when a ship arrived, I think! Reunions after partings that lasted so very long....
perelleth
· 14 May 2008
· Chapter 3: Some who wander are lost
Poor Elrond, and how impotent he must feel, after having been a healer most of his life, and seeing his own son in that state in the blessed realm!when he should be rejoicing in his daughter and his recovered sons! Life is hard for the peredhel, even in Valinor!
On the other hand, I am glad that Elladan had his grandparents with him, for traveling alone while worried about his brother would not have been so good for him... that´s what family is for.
And that last part really moved me, that simple wish from Glorfindel would reduce elrohir to tears...lamost as if he felt he could not comply no matter how he wished it... LEt us hope that he really finds healing, whether in Lorienor with glorfindel's niece I really do not care!:-)
Author's reply
Being told to 'Be Well' if it is impossible to be so, at least at the present, is so very sad. I want them all to find happiness again, too.