News Resources
Login
Become a member
Help
Search
|
|
| About Us News Resources
Login
Become a member
Help
Search
|
|
|
| History Lessons: The Third Age by Nilmandra | 25 Review(s) |
|---|---|
| Lady Saruman | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/23/2006 |
| 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 Author Reply: I am glad you liked the chapter. The contrasts of happy Men beginning a new age, knowing their time has come, is in sharp contrast to the fading and departure of the Elves. And Elrond is of both races, and his children (at least Arwen) is choosing her fate with the one rising to glory. I can only imagine his pain. The conclusion will be bittersweet, I think. LOL at your homework. I feel that way about WORK too. | |
| Elenluin | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/23/2006 |
| Probably your best chapter yet! I could really picture all the events and I love the way you subtily make clear how much all have changed through this war. Not only Elrond and Galadriel, but also the 'common' Rohirrim people who see their lands destroyed, although there is joy because of their victory; the pain will not be forgotten for a long time... Author Reply: I am glad you think so! Each chapter gets a little more painful to write, as from Elrond's persepctive, the losses keep mounting. Even if he can see the greater good, it has to hurt. | |
| Bodkin | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/23/2006 |
| Poor Elrond. Galadriel is not the only one who is diminished. They have both had so much taken from them and must feel like people in the throes of an energy-sapping illness. With family members hovering anxiously around them, too, wondering how they will cope and being ready to offer support. I loved this look at the parts not usually seen. Supportive Glorfindel lending his strength to a shattered Elrond. Galadriel leaning on Celeborn - clear-sightedly knowing what has befallen her - better than Elrond, I think, but then she's older and wilier and isn't just about to surrender her daughter to the fate of mortals. Elrond's irritability is just such a natural reaction - and yet it takes his sons aback. They are so used to calm, understanding, all-powerful Elrond - it'll take them a while to understand just how hurt he is. And although it could have been far far worse, it's bad enough. Love, love strong, prepared, determined Arwen. However much moving on from her life as her Adar's daughter hurts, her time has come and she is eager to become Aragorn's wife. And she is ready. It is right, too, that Eomer and Eowyn (charming, the pair of them. And young,) should be so much more interested in her than in the rest of the elves. She is part of the future - the elves are part of the past. Mind you, Eowyn was definitely impressed by Glorfindel! Hardly surprisingly! Elladan's comment - he might not have meant it the way it sounds, but it must have stung. Poor Elrond - loving Estel as well as Arwen still wouldn't have reconciled himself to handing his daughter a death sentence. And he is correct that Aragorn could not have married and been the right person in the right place to return to the days of the king. Mystic quests don't work that way. Between them, though, Erestor and Glorfindel are doing a pretty good job of standing between Elrond and the cold winds of this new world. Beautiful inevitability to the journey across the Pelennor - terrific symbolism to Arwen's banner. Joyful and painful reunion between Elrond and Aragorn. It is such an act of courage to hand on the torch and step away. May Elrond find every happiness he deserves in his sacrifice. Excellent chapter. Author Reply: Galadriel leaning on Celeborn - clear-sightedly knowing what has befallen her - better than Elrond, I think, but then she's older and wilier and isn't just about to surrender her daughter to the fate of mortals. All true about Galadriel. She is so much more powerful than he in many ways, as well as older and more experienced. And she is being reunited with her daughter. Poor Elladan stuck his foot firmly in his mouth. Had Elrond been in his prime still, he would have handled that so well that no one was embarrassed or mistaken. Elladan is fortunate G and E didn't box his ears, but then, they love him too. Arwen is determined. We see so little of this story in the books, but the one word I always thought of her as was determined - she made some courageous choice. She is no withering flower! | |
| Ellie | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/22/2006 |
| This chapter was beautiful with the amazing turmoil within Elrond as he coped with all of his losses : Vilya's power, his daughter, his hope and joy in Middle-earth. He is so diminished and so sad. I love Glorfindel, Erestor, and Celeborn always there to watch over Elrond and Galadriel. It is amazing how what was such a beautiful sequence in the novel has become so full of sorrow pain and regret when seen through Elrond's eyes. I also like the way his sons have finally come into their own as leaders with their assiting in Rohan. Bravo! Well done! Author Reply: Isn't it amazing how the perspective shift can change how an event appears? The coming of the dominion of men is wonderful.. and few of them beyond Aragorn will understand the signficiance of the ending of the elves. What they contributed, what they gave, will be forgotten. I am glad Elrond was able to see his children radiant and in their glory in this time, despite his own diminishment. But it sure was sad. :( | |
| elliska | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/22/2006 |
| Wow, this chapter had me bawling at a number of places. What struck me most about it was the fact that Elrond, who has clearly always been the very central character in all this series, is still very central here, but it is other people, Arwen in particular, that are active. Since the whole point here is that Elrond's time is fading, and he has to learn to deal with all that means, his portrayal in this chapter is all the more powerful/meaningful. Really well done, Nilmandra. There are several images I really love in this, but the one I like the most is the elves seeing Arwen's banner flying. That was great. So was Elrond passing the sceptre to Aragorn--what a way to end this chapter. I honestly think this was you best chapter yet. There was so much subtle meaning to everything in it. Absolutely wonderful! Author Reply: What struck me most about it was the fact that Elrond, who has clearly always been the very central character in all this series, is still very central here, but it is other people, Arwen in particular, that are active. Since the whole point here is that Elrond's time is fading, and he has to learn to deal with all that means, his portrayal in this chapter is all the more powerful/meaningful. That was exactly the point of the chapter, and wish I had had you to articulate to me what I was trying to accomplish so concisely! LOL, I tried to explain it someone and couldn't. But you're right.. Elrond is still involved, but he fading from center to back, and eventually walking off into the sunset. Leaving with grace and dignity is how we all hope to end. I think some others left with glorious death in battle (Gil-galad) and while it certainly wasn't pleasant to die, it was much different than how these elves are ending. More to come, more decision to make for all of these elves. I think I'll cry more as we get to the shores. Thank you for your very kind words. | |
| Nikara | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/22/2006 |
| Wow. A powerful and somewhat painful chapter. I hadn't considered what would happen to Elrond when the ring was gone. The feelings and emotions of Elrond are incredibly well portrayed. Nicely done. Author Reply: Thank you, glad you liked it. A new beginning for some; an ending for others. It was both sad and joyful to write, too. | |
| Eruanneth_Luin | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/22/2006 |
| 'Her hope had inspired many, and the elves had looked up in hope, rather than south in worry or west in longing.' This line really caught me with the intense concern of the elves, as one so often thinks of Imladris as being ‘safe and hidden’ meaning they need not be on constant alert nor be subject to invasion. It is one of the ironic twists that win or lose, the elves would be sundered from all that they had endeavored to preserve. What a vivid terror for Elrond. That Vilya would not loose him was frightening in the face of what ‘might’ have transpired. It gave me chills reading it! His diminishment after the severing from the Power of the One Ring you described with such feeling that it was easy to feel with Elrond the utter disruption of his long alliance with the Ring of Air and the twin influences of dangers and responsibilities of that bonding. Glorfindel! Ah, to have such a true friend if the dearest wish of all good folk. Strength, kindness, protection, comfort, laughter, truth; all these and much more come wrapped in the glorious form of the twice-born elf-lord of Valinor. Not one, but two devoted to the mental and physical well-being of Elrond. Erestor has a deft manner in dealing with the newly unshielded and vulnerable Lord of Imladris. ‘The young and untamed people’. Yes, that would likely be attractive to the elves. To see the unbound energy and fervor, the excitement of life hot in their mortal lives, must have given new joy to the elves, much as the enthusiasm of the very young bring smiles of delight to adults who are blessed by their presence. Thank you for another heartbreaking, heartwarming chapter. Author Reply: Elrond was fortunate to be surrounded by those who loved him, though indeed, had the One been reclaimed by Sauron, I'm not sure Glorfindel could have saved him. Erestor still makes me laugh. They may love Elrond's children, but I think both would have gladly smacked Elladan right there! The Rohirrim had to seem like a bright and shining people to the fading elves. Young and untamed just seemed to fit them.. and I am sure it fascinated the twins and others. I would love to know what they were doing there during that month! | |
| Dot | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/22/2006 |
| Wow. I mean, wow. I was really looking forward to this part and was thrilled to bits to see it here today! I’m starting to think that my favourite chapters are the ones where you think nothing happens :-D This was amazing. I was so engrossed reading it tonight that I didn’t even notice it growing dark around me! I thought it was a lovely touch that the Hall of Fire wasn’t used until Arwen opened it in celebration. And this is a great line: Her hope had inspired many, and the elves had looked up in hope, rather than south in worry or west in longing. Arwen is such an inspiration. It’s clear that she will be a worthy and beloved queen. And it seems that even Elrond allowed himself to feel a little hope as Frodo neared his destination. You paint a very clear picture of the waiting that he had to endure. What strength it must have taken not to allow his fears to overwhelm him. But then, he had the best support possible, even if he had to, by necessity, face most of it alone. I held my breath in that moment before the Ring’s destruction. I thought that one gesture of Glorfindel’s – holding Arwen back until he knows that Elrond is himself – really shows the awfulness of what might have been. It’s really amazing to see the effects of Sauron’s destruction this far away – seeing the smoke and ash, wondering if loved ones are safe – but… poor Elrond! So many people are rejoicing and yet he now faces a new struggle. The effect on him of Vilya’s loss of power is incredibly well done, Nilmandra. My heart went out to him. The physical effect alone must have been such a shock but it goes so much deeper than that. And it’s frightening to see the loss of his connection with the valley - and it is such a deep loss that it seems so unfair that he has been ripped of so much of his strength when he now needs it most to face what is to come. It was a very moving moment (even though you can never let the poor guy sleep in peace!) when Arwen comes to tell Elrond that Frodo has survived. It must have been such a relief to Elrond, as the one who sent him on the quest. It’s too easy to forget how difficult that must have been for Elrond, even if he knew it had to be. The vision of his pregnant daughter in her rightful place made me smile even as I felt Elrond’s pain. The conflict within him is so clear but he knows that much happiness lies in her future. I was actually glad to see the part with Arwen going from room to room and spending some time with memories of her mother and of her home. I thought it was a perfect way of reminding us that she is leaving much behind and despite her determination and excitement, it must be difficult for her, even if she keeps that to herself. The most touching scene of the whole chapter was the one with Bilbo! There’s such affection and respect between them – and understanding too, I feel. Galadriel has a lot of strength left in her still, it seems, though you do a tremendous job in showing the quite frightening force of the turmoil in her now that Nenya can’t keep it at bay. She’ll be a comfort to Elrond. She certainly understands the emotions he’s trying to learn to control. I hate to think that she’ll be parted from Celeborn soon, though :-/ I thoroughly enjoyed the journey! It was fascinating to read about the places they travelled through, to see the war’s effect on them, to see life returning, to see people picking themselves up and starting anew. And what a sight they must have been! It made me laugh to think of them like a band of travelling circus folk, bringing song and music with them! But it’s lovely to think that they might have brought a smile to the faces of those that they did encounter. The strength in Elladan when he greets his father is such a contrast with Elrond. I admit I did cringe at his words about Aragorn being worthy of Arwen but there’s no doubt he didn’t mean it how it sounded. I felt quite bad for him when he realised what he’d done and how it might have affected his father. But more interesting was Elrond’s reaction. He had every right to chastise Elladan for tactlessness in public or to feel hurt at the implication but the old Elrond never would have reacted with anger. He’s worn and weary and emotional and his nerves are frayed and everything is going to irritate him. And all these things are going to make those who love him want to take care of him – which he’s going to find difficult until he can accept that he does need their care. Already Galadriel has helped soothe him and Glorfindel and Erestor are endless sources of strength. Yay for Erestor, by the way!! I loved the whole part in Meduseld! Your Éomer and Éowyn are very likeable people and you really get across their youth and enthusiasm along with their strength and the obvious love that their people have for them. I was so glad to see that Arwen and Éowyn are on the way to being friends. Arwen is so good with her. I admit that I wondered why she was being so open with someone that she’s just met until you explained it a few paragraphs later and I think that, as always, Arwen knew the right thing to do. Indeed, Elrohir made the right decision in telling Arwen of Éowyn and it shows his own sensitivity and his faith in his sister. I love the fact that Éowyn and Glorfindel have befriended each other too! Of course they have much in common. And it’s amusing to think that he’s probably more interested in her than she is in him! That scene between Elrond and his sons brought tears to my eyes. I was relieved to see his honesty with them – though they would have suspected much already. Yet there are clearly some thoughts that Elrond is unwilling to even face himself yet, let alone share with anyone. It will take him a while to learn to bear this new burden. I think one of the saddest things is this distance that he feels from everything. His part is nearly over. Oh, and I forgot to say how much I liked the way Elrohir and Elladan have clearly helped support Éomer and guide him and his people. They’re two charismatic characters and the ease with which they mingle with the people of Rohan seems to have granted them acceptance in return. Arwen’s banner! You and she have put a lot of thought into it! It is a reminder of blessings and promises, of a line renewed and it shows hope and strength for the future. It’s also a sign of the rightness of all this – that this truly is Arwen’s destiny and the fate of Men. I thought this was a very powerful and moving line: No longer would the Elves succor Men in their youth and old age; no longer would they remember for Men their lore, lest it pass away. Elrond is handing so much more than the Sceptre over to Aragorn. I loved the way Galadriel, Celeborn and Glorfindel all gave Elrond strength to face this moment and to do this with dignity. And it touched me that he saw Aragorn firstly as his son. Placing his daughter’s hand in Aragorn’s must have been a moment of so many emotions for him, even as it’s some comfort to him to see their joy in and love for each other. And… then there was no more to scroll down to!! I could have kept reading this for ages. Oh well. This was a truly great chapter – it’s so fascinating to see this from Elrond’s point of view and you always treat him with such sensitivity and respect and insight that it feels like such a privilege to get to see this side of him. I’m tremendously excited about the next chapter! Author Reply: You're wonderful, Dot! I was thinking about the One could change shape to fit the bearer's hand... and I started thinking the other rings could as well... and then I wondered if the One could command that function. As much as Glorfindel might have liked to beleive he could have kept Sauron from Elrond, I'm not sure he could have. I think he might have had no choice but to slay him and free his soul, if even that was possible. Its a truly awful thought to think of! I am glad the change in Elrond read well... his children have come into their time, particularly Arwen but I think even his sons in being part of it all were in their glory. The distance separating him from their hope and joy had to be like a chasm to him. He is learning what it means to end not only well, but gracefully and with dignity. Most leaders in his experience left only with bodily death. He and Galadriel will get to walk off into the sunset. Oh, I'm going to cry myself again. | |
| Amy | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/22/2006 |
| I can't leave w/o reviewing, but I can't be coherent with tears pouring down my face, so this is a placeholder review, and I'll try to get back after I've reread. This has been a wonderful story, but this chapter may top them all in heartbreak, realism, satisfaction, insights: yeah, it's all that. Author Reply: Oh, I'm glad you think so! Thank you for your kind words. Amazing how different a scene can look depending on whose eyes one is looking through. | |
| Dreamflower | Reviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/22/2006 |
| What a lovely and amazing take on this part of events! I know that I have seen the Three affected in two different ways in fics: some show them diminishing, but not totally shorn of power all at once, a fading rather; others, like you, show them losing their power the moment the One went into the Fire. Both have interpretations have something to be said for them, but I did love the way you handled it--it must have been so hard to lose that power, which he had relied on for countless years; much like being suddenly stricken blind or deaf! I really did love the way you showed their journey. I think my favorite part of that was the beautifully compassionate encounter between Arwen and Eowyn. And I would like to be privy to that conversation between Eowyn and Glorfindel.(And to be honest, between Glorfindel and Merry!) And the ending! Ah, what beautiful foresight Arwen showed when she wrought that banner! Gorgeous! Just gorgeous! I look forward now to the wedding, and to Elrond encountering Frodo once more. Author Reply: There are advantages to both interpretation, definitely. I actually played with both and settled on this one for the drama (go figure!) and the timeline (they sailed pretty quickly). I know many who find Arwen weak, that she did 'nothing' compared to Eowyn, but I have always thought of Arwen as very courageous and strong. Being a behind the scenes person is just as important as a leading role. She was taking on a new life and binding her fate, leaving her family and people... And to me this is an example of strength - in her openness with Eowyn and befriending one who appears to be headed to be the steward's wife - they will be together and ruling women, and friendship begun here is diplomatic and smart if nothing else. I would love to have heard her and Glorfindel talk too! I look foward to the next chapters too. Elrond and Frodo have much in common. | |