History Lessons by Nilmandra

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Fadesintothewest · 26 October 2003 · Chapter 24: New Lives

My heart was breaking even more, as I read Elrond and Celebrian's love, and I couldn't help but want to yell out, no, he cannot loose Celebrian. This is the best character development I have read of Elrond, digging deep into his psyche, his pains, his sorrows, his joys, and it makes him come to life in such a way. I do look forward to the next installment!

Author's reply

Thanks Fades - do you know, I am not sure I will be able to write about that, if and when I get to the third age! Poor Elrond - to lose his Celebrian.... I am glad you liked the story and the portrayal of Elrond.

Fadesintothewest · 26 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

I knew that this chapter was going to be hard to read. My heart ached along with Elrond's, and that's what is so terribly sad about Tolkien's world, that at some point we are parted from the ones we love. But beyond that is hope and that's what Elrond holds onto.

Dolly · 26 October 2003 · Chapter 24: New Lives

Wonderful story from the beginning to the end, I am sorry that it has ended as it has been so good, but I agree with you that it is a good place to finish. I loved the way the Elves all got along, helping in the upbringing of the twins and sharing good and bad memories. I will really miss this story. Best Wishes Dolly

Author's reply

Thanks Dolly. I actually miss the story too! I am contemplating the second age and how I might tell that story next. :D

The Karenator · 25 October 2003 · Chapter 24: New Lives

Nilmandra, What a wonderful ending....though I am sorry that this story has come to an end. It seems Elrond still has trouble with revealing his emotions to others, but he has found some closure to the pain of losing his brother through the stories and in tallking to his wife. When he talked about feeling the emptiness when Elros died and how it would never go away, but new threads had woven around that space...well..it was just such a indication of his strength and perseverance. While Elros seemed to be more emotionally open than he did, he was, still, able to love. Elladan and Elrohir were absolutly delightful as little bundles of joy, compassion and youthful questions. They and, of course, Celebrian, were the balm that soothed and opened Elrond's heart. He was right when he thought of all the wonderful support he had been gifted with throughout his life. It's obvious Elrond was well loved and his past experiences had helped him become such an elf that was worthy of this devotion. You painted this trail with vibrant strokes, minute detail and rich colors. The portrait of Elrond! My favorite line was what Celeborn said of our golden balrog slayer: “Who knew that a mighty Balrog slayer would make such a fine nanny?” mused Celeborn. I loved this. It was a simple statement meant in jest, but revealed the quality of those who surrounded Elrond and his family. The entire story was such a wonderful gift to your readers. You wove a very interesting and informative story. We got a view that even Tolkien could not offer in such understandable, yet, beautiful language. We got to know Elros. I found him likeable, loving and full of a bright energy that seeded the best of what man would become. However as the ages passed and the further man drifted from the light that led them, they fell into darkness. As testament to the strength of Elros' blood, the light did not go out completely as we found when his descendent, Aragorn, brought that seed back to Middle Earth. Elrond's cost was high in this, as well. I will not accept that Elladan and Elrohir stayed behind in Middle Earth.I believe that they traveled to Valinor on the last ship. After Arwen's death and all the other elves had left...AND there were no more orcs to slay, there was nothing for them in Arda. But there was a lot for them in Valinor. I can't see them seeking revenge on orcs for the harm they caused their mother and then not going to her when the time came. There is nothing on earth that would compare to seeing her again! Now see what's happened! You've got me tying up lose ends everywhere. I'm hoping that you will help me in this valiant quest by exploring the remainder of the second age and maybe the third. Again, this was such a wonderful piece of work. I can't tell you how impressed I am with the completeness of it and the detail of character you expounded on and created. This is one of the most beautiful writings I've encountered in the fanfiction genre and in the traditional publishing world. Please...carry on. :>) Karen

Author's reply

Thank you, Karen, for this wonderful wrap-up review. I love that phrase - the Portrait of Elrond! And you are absolutely right about the twins - in my mind, they stayed to see their sister and little 'brother' through to the end of their lives, and then sailed west with their grandfather. Obviously Celeborn stayed for them :D I cannot see there being much left in ME for them after that point. I have decided anything else is AU and I don't read AU :D Thanks for your wonderful words - they made my day - and now I need to work on plotting out the second age :D

Elemmire · 25 October 2003 · Chapter 24: New Lives

Now I need to go mop up my tears...thank you for the lovely story! Elemmire

Author's reply

You are welcome, Elemmire. Making people cry is a good thing, I hope :D

daw the minstrel · 25 October 2003 · Chapter 24: New Lives

This chapter is a wonderful finish to a wonderful story. You brought so much of The Silmarillion alive for me in a way I don't think I could have done for myself. And you have given Elrond a depth that is so enriching. It colors my view of him now. What a tragic and yet deeply good person he is. This is just an amazing achievement. I am honored to have beta read it.

Author's reply

Thanks for your nice words - bringing the Sil to life was exactly the intent as was delving into the character of Elrond........and you are officially hired for the second age :-)

Bejai · 25 October 2003 · Chapter 24: New Lives

I was just sitting here, drowning in US Federal Income Tax (don't ask), when your author alert popped up in my inbox. Much to my joy! This was another beautiful chapter. I was glad to see that Albast recovered, and that you didn't take us down that road. You're right; the time is not yet right for the twins to have to deal with that sadness. And I loved how you described Elros' end. It was a continuation of what you have been doing all along -- gently pulling them apart until one day their link faded away. What a difficult day that must have been for Elrond. I don't know if it was made easier by being apart, or harder. This story was so brilliant. From concept to detail it was beautifully wrought, intelligently researched, well paced, and emotionally true. One of my all time favorites, just behind Tolkien's original version. Thank you for writing this story. It was the epic I'd always wished for. When I introduce my own children to Tolkien's world, I think I will print off this story was well and read it to them. Now, in case you're out of plot bunnies, I have a wish list :) -- the return of the Númenorians -- History Lessons: the Second Age -- a story about Galadriel and her father meeting while he was in Middle Earth. Bravo, Nilmandra, Bravo.

Author's reply

Thanks Bejai (and I am self employed and know more than I ever wanted to about tax forms too!). Your words mean a lot - this was a challenge, but a very rewarding one, and I have to admit I am plotting out the second age....and I hope it comes together as well. ~Nilmandra

LKK · 22 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

Very poignant, Nilmandra. My heart ached for Elrond. As a child, he was usually so aware of things, to be caught so unprepared for Elros' decision -- I guess he was in denial regarding his brother's thoughts. Everyone else seemed less surprised. My heart went out to Elros as well. He knew he was going to hurt his brother, and yet he could make no other choice. Galadriel was right. (Again.) I smiled at little Elladan's comment: Your brother hurt you and brothers should not do that. Ah, little one. Would that decisions were so uncomplicated. Finally, I loved the final image of Glorfindel and Celeborn pretending to be balrog and dragon! A great Part II to an equally great Part I. :-) LKK

Author's reply

Thanks LKK. As I wrote this story and tried to consider the perspective of each person, and what they knew or what their world-view was at the time, I came to the conclusion that having to make such a decision had to be a shock to all of them. My respect for Elros increased the more I considered how brave he was to leave all he knew for the unknown. The way was prepared for him, so perhaps it wasn't like those who first crossed the ocean or crossed the Rockies to see what was in the West, but it was a huge step nonetheless. He and Elrond will talk more in the next chapter :) As for those elf-Lords.....all I can say is that elves sure did cherish their children and these days of childhood were precious - so much so that apparently even mighty elf-lords played silly games. Have I mentioned I love Glorfindel?

Bejai · 20 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

Oh, Nilmandra, I don't know how you do it, but this story keeps getting better. I must say that as much as I'm thrilled for this fast and furious updates, they are doing terrible things to my productivity. I read the chapter, and then read it again, and then go read earlier chapters, and read the new chapter again. Work? I'm supposed to work? Love it all, but especially these bits: -- "Their passage went unchallenged; shining elves with the light of Valinor gleaming in their eyes and Maiar of great power and might watched them pass with looks that hovered between curiosity and an almost paternal love." What an absolutely wonderful detail. That's one of the things I love best about your stories; the unexpected insights within small details. -- the description of Elrond's emotion when Elros spoke his fate. What can I say? Wrenching, terrible, beautiful. -- the idea that Elrond could be healed and find peace in Valinor, but does not go, and will not go for ages. -- “I am Nienna, son of Eärendil. For the marring of Arda I grieve, and for all that is blemished and lost I mourn. Hearken to me, Elrond,” she commanded gently, “for it is through pity you shall replenish your own soul. You shall find hope through endurance, and in compassion for all who come into your care you shall find strength.” How utterly appropriate that Elrond can find the will to continue through compassion on others. -- the elf telling Elrond that he would feel young again in Valinor. Poor Elrond, who already carries the griefs of age in a young life! -- "Your destiny lies in the shared blood of the Secondborn" Ahhgg, remind us that he'll have to go through this AGAIN why don't you? -- Glorfindel the Balrog and Celeborn the Dragon. Priceless. Brilliant, brilliant. I'll gladly sit here and wait for the next chapter, even if it does kill my time ;)

Author's reply

Hi Bejai - your words are like music to my heart! Thank you so much - I was concerned about how this chapter would be received. I really wanted an experience to shape Elrond towards compassion and pity - and Nienna seemed perfect. I am glad you liked that - and oh, isn't that foreshadowing terrible? These updates were quick because these last four chapters were written together - I need to see them together to feel comfortable with them. So it took weeks to get them there - I promise to slow down just a little bit now. Again, thank you for your words. I was worried I could not pull this off. :)

Dolly · 20 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

Wonderful chapter as always. I really felt for Elrond when Elros made his choice and the bond diminished. I love Gil-Galad and Celeborn in this story, so supportive of both the young Elves. More very soon please.

Author's reply

Thank you Dolly :-) I liked the idea that both GG and Celeborn were related to the twins - it gave some great opportunities to throw them together. I am glad you liked it. ~Nilmandra

Antigone_Q · 19 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

This chapter again touched on something I left in my previous very-late-at-night-and-slightly-incoherent review. There is the sense that you are finding positive aspects of your characters that were built by loss, hurt, or sacrifice. If you count Elrond's losses as we know them by the time of LotR, they are many: he has lost both his parents, his short-term father figure Malgor, his longer-term father figure Gil-galad, his wife Celebrian, and his brother Elros. And what is he doing? He is hosting strangers and wayfarers and orphaned humans in the peaceful sanctuary he has built in Rivendell. I think saying Elrond has been "tempered and refined into the finest gold by mourning and compassion and hope" is a good way to put it. What I find especially interesting is that you are building backwards from Tolkien's "Kind as summer, wise as something-or-other" Elrond, finding motivations for his compassion from the experiences of his earlier days that Tolkien touches on, but doesn't elaborate much. I can only complement you again, because what you are doing is not only difficult, but beautiful.

Author's reply

I usually respond to reviewers in the next chapter, but you made me jump up and down for joy, and cry - all at the same time! You have picked up on exactly what I am trying to do. Tolkien writes such grand and majestic themes into his works - and the strength and ability to overcome that his characters have does come from sacrific and loss and pain. Elrond is such a great example. And I did exactly what you said - I wrote down almost everything Tolkien said about Elrond (and Cirdan and Gil-Galad and Elros) and then tried to piece detail around it to take the character's growth from point A to point Z. Thank you so much - you made my day. :)

The Karenator · 19 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

Nilmandra, What a beautifully written chapter. Even though I knew what was coming...the choice given to the half elven...I was still somewhat blindsided by the emotional turmoil. I knew it must have been a difficult decision and it must have been painful for both brothers, but you did me in with the sundering of the bond between the twins. And when Elrond thought about how glad he was that he could still feel the bond, even though it was weak, but that it was the emptiness that would come one day he feared....well, that just got me! Oh my. Elros is such a strong character. He seems to have always known his destiny on some level, but Elrond's innocent nature prevented him from seeing that Elros was led in a different direction than him. It was such a shock for poor Elrond. You have done a terrific job of showing the shaping of the Elrond we know later..all the losses, the pain and the acquisition of the compassion and wisdom he gained throughout the many long years. His fate remains bound to mortal man and it will later come full circle. You have given the twins such distinct personalities. Elros is so directed and sure of himself and while he would never have caused Elrond pain, he followed his heart and made his own destiny. Elrond is a healer at heart and knows the pain of the world so much more readily than his brother. He is almost too tuned in to the weariness of love, loss and separation. He seems more vulnerable. Boy, Nilmandra, this was such a moving chapter. I know other things happened, but the music of these two distinct lives was so engaging that I fell into listening to them. Wow, is about all I can say. I'm eager for the next chapter. :>) Karen

Author's reply

Thank you Karen! I love your reviews - you think so much about the story and to see your thoughts match my intent or what I was thinking is just wonderful. I think you said it well that Elrond was innocent - and Elros's choice shows how much of a pioneer and adventurer he was. He turned from all he knew to forge new roads and paths. I don't think Elrond could have predicted it - but when I think of the love he showed to the heirs of Isildur, it has to stem from the love he had for his twin. I am glad you are enjoying this - thank you for telling me. ~Nilmandra

TolkienFan · 19 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

Well, this chapter made me cry. From beginning to end. Instead of a two-thumbs-up rating, I give it a five-Kleenex-down. Which is incredible! Gotta go read it again (*sniffle*) ...

Author's reply

Oh, my,........well, I will take that as a compliment :). Thank you *hands you a box of tissues*. I made myself cry when I wrote it too. ~Nilmandra

Jay of Lasgalen · 19 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

I wondered when we would get to the crunch, the moment when Elrond and Elros actually made their separate choices. Poor Elrond! To hear his brother say that must have been such a shock - he had no idea Elros would choose mortality. But I would have thought they would have at least discussed it first! I wonder if Elladan and Elrohir could contemplate different fates? Jay

Author's reply

Hi Jay! Poor Elrond - he really did not see it coming (in my world). I wrote the scene where they talked about it, and it seemed to want to go one of two ways - denial or outright opposition. Denial was no fun to read, so its implied in GG's conversation with Elros. Outright opposition - I was afraid Elros would waver or they would build a wall between them that could not be undone. Isn't it amazing how real these characters become? I have decided (I call it Nilmandra's proclamation) that Elladan and Elrohir *have* to sail west. I can't have Elrond lose all of his children to mortality. I only wish I had the authority to make it canon!!

Elemmire · 19 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

*sniff* now you've got me crying...poor Elrond. Elemmire

Author's reply

*hands you tissues* But I am glad, I guess, since it made me cry too. Thanks for reading :)

daw the minstrel · 19 October 2003 · Chapter 23: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions (Part II)

I absolutely loved this chapter. The choice was so painful and Elrond just did not have a clue about what was coming. I also really liked seeing Gil-galad, Celeborn, and Elrond decide that they had things they wanted to do yet in Middle-earth. The whole scene was epic - mountains crashing, floods drowning the land, and the powers that be trying to decide how to work out the practicalities of dealing with what they had wrought.

Author's reply

I've decided to use this neat function, instead of waiting until the next chapter. Whoever thought of this had a great idea :D Thanks for your help on these chapters - I am glad they came across Tolkienesque.

TolkienFan · 19 October 2003 · Chapter 22: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions

Wow, what a thrilling fight! Was this *really* in the Silmarilion? I had a hard time slogging through that book, but I can't imagine I missed Vingilot and Eagles fighting with Dragons! Guess I'll have to go back and read it again - and maybe stay awake this time! Seriously, your story just keeps getting better and better, Nilmandra. Can't wait until the next chapter!

Fadesintothewest · 18 October 2003 · Chapter 22: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions

What a wonderful chapter! The excitement was palpable as I read, and imagined the fury of the dragons swooping down upon the Elves and Men and the final defeat of the dragons was just awesome! At least thanks to you, that's how I envisioned it. I definitely have a new found respect for Elrond and Elros and the mighty war that raged internally for them. It is for these reasons that Elrond is as wise as he is, b/c he has sensed both the world of Men and Elves, and the sadness related to both.

The Karenator · 17 October 2003 · Chapter 22: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions

Nilmandra, What a wonderful chapter! There was such a fine balance of action and introspection. The battle scenes were so well done. For a moment, I even found myself feeling sympathy for the older dragon as Elrond wondered if the slain younger dragon had been its child. There were so many points that caught my eye that I don't think there is enough room to comment on them all...Celeborn and Glorfindel being predatory and Celebrian's scathing looks...the battle, the arrival of the Valar, the brothers "M" and their all consuming tunnel vision on the silmarilli, the moment they took to seek out young Elrond and Elros, the final exhausting blade dance between two brothers who felt they have no one but each other, Elrond's thoughts on the matter and Gil-Galad's resolve to speak to the Vala about these two caught between two destinies. All these scenes and others I did not mention specifically, were so well done. The distress of the Peredhel was so wonderfully described. Oh...my heart breaks for them.....I look forward to the next chapter. Thanks for all the work you've put into this. Your story has put this complex history into such a reader friendly version. Even I can follow it! :>) Karen

Antigone_Q · 17 October 2003 · Chapter 22: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions

It is now 3:01 in the morning. As luck would have it I don't have to work tomorrow, so I decided around chapter 10 that I would just read until I was finished. But the story isn't done yet! Anyway, beautiful piece of work. Liked the past history weaving together with the present, and the Elflings picking up some practical applications to what they are hearing from Elrond, Glorfindel, and Celeborn. Also like that the history given is also a family history, and am enjoying Elrond coming more to terms with his past as he remembers it. Am also impressed by the gentleness with which the main characters treat one another throughout: it is clearly gained from the individuals experiences, some of which were hurtful to begin with. Loved the fact that all the characters experienced growth and change, and thought the depth of the characterization was terriffic. Also, you have a sly sense of humor. Have both laughed and cried (literally) during the reading of this fic, and would love to leave a longer review with more detail, but am very tired. I certainly hope another update is soon to come.

Bejai · 17 October 2003 · Chapter 22: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions

Oh, my heavens, that was a gripping chapter. The dragons, the ship, the kinslayers, the binding of Morgoth, the breaking of the land ... I must say that this is the story I've always wanted to read. It gets better with every chapter, it beautifully fills in all the gaps I've ever wondered about. And the end! The peredhil who heard both calls but can answer neither! I've always wondered about the difficulty of the choice they have to make, for as surely as they heard both calls they must have that desire to be bound to Arda forever and to fly away from it to the fate of men. I suspect that as Elros lay dying he felt Arda calling to him to stay, and every moment that Elrond continues he feels the call beyond. And poor Gil-galad, who does not know what fate he should plead for. You're breaking my heart, here. All of this is so masterfully, brilliantly done. Looking forward to where you take us next.

Marnie · 16 October 2003 · Chapter 22: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions

What can I say? This chapter was just fabulous! Loved the beginning with the twins leaping on their dad and getting their grandad into trouble. Loved the dragons, and the clever idea of netting one on rope. The battle between Earendil in Vingilot and the eagles and the dragons was awesome, but I really liked the little touch that Elrond hadn't noticed he was wounded until then. The mention of the captives of Angband being freed was very moving. And Maedhros and Maglor turning up was done really well - you really got the feeling of how much of a pariah they were. And of course, lots of lovely Celeborn, being down to earth, practical, unflappable and generally wonderful throughout :) My cup runneth over. I particularly loved that little gesture of tenderness towards Elrond, brought on by seeing Maglor again. Wonderful!

daw the minstrel · 16 October 2003 · Chapter 22: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions

I thought this chapter was wonderful. I would never even attempt to write about something as sweeping and mythic in stature as this battle. And I actually teared up at the sound of the call of the Valar and the idea that Elros and Elrond heard both calls. The glimpse of the Feanorians was strangely moving. What a tragedy that all way. Thank you for giving me something to read!

Karri · 16 October 2003 · Chapter 22: Dragons, Silmarilli and Decisions

A beautiful, bittersweet chapter. It made me a little sniffly. Celeborn and Glorfindel are a hoot, but the twins (elder) situation is heartrending. Excellent work, as usual. Thanks for sharing it with us.

The Karenator · 12 October 2003 · Chapter 21: The War

Nilmandra, I've been reading along for some time now but have not reviewed. This story is even in my bookmarks. I'm ashamed. I have truly enjoyed the whole story. It really is somewhat like The Silmarillion for Dummies and I've loved that. I've read the The Silmarillion and found it quite confusing. I'm glad the twins needed lessons so I could eavesdrop. Your story is so detailed, but not overwhelming. (You should have beta-ed for Tolkien!) The twins are adorable. Glorfindel is, too, but not in the same way, if you catch my meaning....:>) In this last chapter, I was so impressed by the details of the war and the reactions of the participants. The scene of Elrond's coming of age was quite touching....similar to the sweat lodge of some American Indian tribes with the exception that the sweat comes first, then the dip in cold water and then the feast. Tolkien, I've read, drew heavily on generic American Indian traits in creating the Elves and your rendering of the coming of age ceremony seemed quite appropriate. Celeborn and Finarfin's first meeting was interesting. I suppose I had never considered that the in-laws had not met. The love between Elrond and Elros is evident, but so are the differences that will guide their paths. I've found myself wondering more about Elros. Last, but not least, I'm pulling for Albast. Very well done, Nimandra. You've put so much into this and it shows. Karen