Reviews (398)

Bejai · 29 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Healing

Being sick is awful. Haven't had the flu recently, but I sympathize. Hope you're feeling better. Loved this chapter, of course. Consider the source; how could I not? :) Elrohir understanding the deep pride his father and Glorfindel feel for him was beautifully done. How proud they must be that he turned out to be such a selfless young man. Poor Erestor -- standing between Celebrian and her children would certainly not be a fun job. Enjoyed his observation that she couldn't help being the headstrong daughter of powerful people. I'm so glad you came back to Glorfindel and his rehousing. It's such a fuzzy buy intriguing area. I'm particularly glad you left out the angst and focus instead on the joy of sensation, the renewal of life. And Glorfindel's meeting with Earendil was breathtaking. Very much looking forward to more.

Arbelethiel · 29 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Healing

I’ve said it before, I’m saying it again: I absolutely love your characterisations and the interactions between the characters. The description of Glorfindel’s reembodiment was absolutely wonderful. All the little details that we rarely notice before they are taken from us. And naked!Glorfindel is good too :D Thank you :) ~Arbelethiel

Antigone_Q · 29 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Healing

Shhh! I'm reviewing at work - don't tell! Great writing, as always, Nilmandra! I loved the interactions between the family members in this chapter, especially Elrond and Elrohir. It was obvious how much they all cared for each other, and it also became very plain to me that Glorfindel is considered an important part of the family. One of my favorite parts was where Elrohir is thinking about how much he still needs his Adar's approval and how frustrating that is...and then Glorfindel notices and makes sure Elrohir knows that his father isn't unhappy with him. That was a funny little scene with Celebrian and Erestor. Poor Erestor, always trying to be the voice of reason within the chaos that seems to follow Elrond's family! Arwen has the whole camp wrapped around her little finger, doesn't she? She's so upset about her dress and her hair, and everyone rushes to fix things for her. And of course Ada can fix anything - isn't that what Adas are for? I cannot tell you how much I LOVED the picture of Glorfindel sewing a flower on a little girl's dress. That was just so...right. Not that the thought of how Glorfindel may have looked upon awakening in Valmar wasn't also quite (cough) fetching. The bit about Glorfindel's re-embodiment was very nice. I like the way you show that it was a time of joy for Glorfindel, and the way you gave a sense of peace and otherworldly-ness. The explanation of why Glorfindel returned at all was very well-done and logical. I'm very much looking forward to the next chapter.

paranoidangel · 27 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Healing

Yay, we're back to the Second Age stuff again! I did like Glorfindel being able to sew as well. Hope you didn't have the flu too badly - I've had it, so I know what it's like. Don't worry about taking too long between chapters - as long as it's there and it's how you want it we'll all be happy.

The Karenator · 26 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Healing

What a nice chapter. I loved the family dynamics...which includes Glorfindel...as Elrond, the twins, Arwen and Glorfindel are together awaiting the others. And who would have thought the Balrog Slayer could wield a needle as well as he could a sword? Making flowers, no less. It's an interesting side to his personality. I hope Elrond appreciates Erestor. Most folks would have turned their horse into the sunset and headed for the hills long ago. I am really enjoying him. You have fleshed him out with a slightly cranky, but endearing personality. He's a terrific addition to the story. Glorfindel's arrival back into his body has been very interesting. I suppose I always thought that they'd be born back into their bodies as babies if they were returned, but I like the way you've put him back into an adult body, but had him relearn many of the basic skills a child has to master. The pledging of his fealty to Earendil was very touching. Elrond is twice blessed with his friends...Glorfindel and a loyal, if not, sometimes, grumpy Erestor. I hope you're feeling better. I've heard that this flu is quite a baddy. If it's possible under such circumstances, I hope you got off light. Take care of yourself. I look forward to the next chapter. Karen

Jay of Lasgalen · 26 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Healing

Oh, poor Elrohir! After all he's been through, he thinks his father is cross with him for going in the river! I like the way he's annoyed with himself for wanting Elrond's approval so much. I love the interaction with him and his father and brother. Also, loved the image of Elrond sewing Arwen's tunic! Who'd have thought the elf lord could sew? And Glorfindel's flowers, too. Poor Erestor, he'll be counting to 50 before long, I think. It will be a long time before Celebrian forgives him - though that moment will probably come as soon as she is reunited with her children. So sorry you've had flu - hope you're feeling better soon. Great chapter, thank you! Jay

Nikara · 26 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Healing

That flu is supposed to be nasty. Tons of the people at my school have it. Great job with this chapter. I was very amused with how Glorfindel could sew. Keep it up!

FirstMate · 26 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Healing

Sorry to hear you've had the flu...I've heard it is quite a nasty bug this year! Well, it didn't seem to keep you from writing another wonderful chapter. I love this story. Really, the interactions between the characters is so charming. You've made it so very clear how much they all care for each other. Even Erestor, who doesn't get much of a part in other stories, has been fleshed out nicely here. Mostly though, I love how Glorfindel, Elladan, and Elrond are taking care of Elrohir and Arwen. Very sweet and loving. Great chapter!

daw the minstrel · 26 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Healing

Poor Erestor! I suspect he will have to count to 20 a few more times yet on this journey. He will have to figure out some way to make Elrond pay. I loved the family dynamics in this chapter. The grown up twins still wnat to please their father, and Arwen is a believably fussy little girl. And a naked Glorfindel is always a good thing. I love the idea that he can make little ribbon flowers. And I dare anyone to make fun of him for doing it!

phoenix23531 · 16 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

Yay! They are found! Now they just have to figure out how to get back across the river, survive Celebrian's inevitable tirade for leaving her on the other bank, Erestor's tirade for leaving him to placate Celebrian on the other bank...my, it doesn't look good for them, does it? As always, this chapter was a pleasure to read. The tenderness between the brothers and sister, and Glorfindel to all three is truly endearing. I also question whether Erestor will be remaining this side of Valinor after having to keep Celebrian behind. As you said, the daughter of Galadriel and Celeborn is not one to be triffled with! I also can't wait to hear more of Glorfindel's tale, and (whether it happens this tale or not) a story-time with Cirdan would be absolutely priceless! All the best!

Arbelethiel · 15 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

I like the way you write all the characters and the interactions between them :) “I would take on another balrog before I’d argue with Celebrían.” ROTLFOL Well, she is Galadriel’s daughter, after all :D Thank you for this chapter (and for not ending it with a cliffhanger ;) ) ~Arbelethiel

The Karenator · 14 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

I'm sure glad to see Elrond safely on the ground once again and with his injured children. The tension was just right and your solutions were inspired. I read the pulley scene several times to be sure I had it firmly visualized. What ingenuity! I was wondering when Elrond or Erestor would have to resort to physically restraining Celebrian. I can't say I blame her. I'd have jumped on that rope, too. But she is outnumbered by male elves and one very stern order given by her significant other. I don't envy Erestor either in having to keep her calm. I particularly liked the connection between the twins. Elladan seemed as drained by the ordeal as Elrohir...maybe more since he was aware of it. Now that Elrond's there...nothing was going to stop him...it will be interesting to see how everyone fares and to hear the new stories. Very good chapter, Nilmandra. I'm looking forward to more. Karen

LKK · 14 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

Thank goodness the lost ones have been found! My respect for Erestor has increased dramatically after this chapter. His courage to stand up to Elrond (and especially Celebrian!) earned my deep respect. He knew that someone had to think rationally for the parents as they were unable to do so for themselves, else something worse might happen either to them or to the children. Not an easy decision to follow through with when you're facing someone as strong as the Lord and Lady of Rivendell! Kudos to Erestor for keeping a cool head. This story has been a read hand-clencher, Nilmandra. I apologize that I haven't had a chance to review it chapter by chapter. But I *have* enjoyed it chapter by chapter! LKK

Iawen Londea · 14 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

They've been found, YAY! I loved what you did with this chapter, and Elrond's worry for Elrohir. I eat that up lol. *is a dork* I also liked you dealing with Elladan bearing Elrohir's pain during the procedure and such. Great job, continue soon.

Marnie · 14 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

Oh I am glad that Elrond's back with his children. But I do feel sorry for poor Celebrian with everyone conspiring to keep her from them. Don't they remember that she's a Galadhrim, and doubtless has lots of experience of rope walking? Sheesh, talk about misplaced gallantry! And Elrond needs to be careful about Erestor - he'll be taking over if he isn't kept in check ;) I'm glad to think that perhaps the worst is over now, particularly for Elrohir, who I was rather worried about. Now it's only a question of how fast they can get home :)

Nikara · 13 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

Wow! I'm glad that Elrond was finally able to help his son. I love the link between Elladan and Elrohir. Very nice job. Add more soon!

meckinock · 13 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

Bravo for your engineering feat, and wow- what athleticism from Elrond. Good to see the old boy still has it in him when the occasion warrants. Nothing was going to keep him from getting across the river, was it? You know, after I told you I couldn't wait to see how you were going to get Elrond across the river, it occured to me I wasn't even sure that the twins and Arwen ended up on the opposite bank at all - but I'm glad you played it that way! And that elvish eyesight sure comes in handy in a situation like that - not to mention elvish marksmanship. The exchange between Elladan and Arwen was so sweet, and Glorfindel has it right - Elrohir sure needs his dad right now.

Bejai · 13 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

Oddly enough, you've saved me from the horror that is Federal Income Tax, again. For a minute, anyway, but I'll take every break I can get from pawing through the damn code and regulations. I loath Congress and the IRS. But then, who doesn't? On a happier note, loved the chapter. Erestor simply rocked. He's got to keep thinking, even when others are, perhaps, focused on other things. Wouldn't have wanted to be the one to face down Celebrian, though. "Mama Bear" comes to mind. Interesting comment about his family being Elrond's weakness. I certainly agree -- and yet, they are also his strength. Strange how such things can be. Enjoyed his dogged determination to get over that river. And Elladan's connection to his brother was interesting. Is that the first time he's felt such a thing? I seem to recall elflings being young and hurt a story ago, but not shared pain. Are such connections of the mind/body things only adults can experience? Interesting to think about. Glad that they've been found and helped. But I suspect the trouble isn't over yet. Now that we've escaped some of the dire situation, I'm hoping to see some stories of the past during recovery.

Jay of Lasgalen · 13 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

Well, thank goodness Elrond is there! It sounds as if he has already helped Elrohir a lot. But if I was Celebrian, I'd have been across that rope behind Elrond, no matter what Eerestor thought he could do! I love the concern shown by Elladan and Glorfindel, especially how Elladan reassures his sister about what happened. And I love the way Elladan can feel Elrohir's pain - I have always felt that the twins are that close. Jay

daw the minstrel · 13 December 2003 · Chapter 6: Found

I cannot tell you how relieved I was that Elrond and Celebrian found their children. (And btw, if I were Elrond, I'd be making plans for how to protect myself when Celebrian finally arrives.) And I was also interested in watching Elrond doggedly cross that river to get to his injured kids. You can see where his priorities are and I think they're very elfy. I liked the tie between Elladan and Elrohir. They're young enough that I'll be they haven't had to do this kind of thing very often, especially since Arda is pretty peaceful during this period.

Antigone_Q · 10 December 2003 · Chapter 5: A Mystery Unraveled

Whoops! I meant Elrohir, of course. Please don't tell the twins I got them confused!

Antigone_Q · 9 December 2003 · Chapter 5: A Mystery Unraveled

Oh, poor Elladan! Make him better soon, please! And Arwen, too, of course. Of course Glorfindel thinks of Elladan as an Elfling. I imagine at Glorfindel's age an awful lot of people seem like Elflings! Well, now Elrond and Celebrian know where Arwen is - that doesn't mean they get to feel any better yet.

The Karenator · 7 December 2003 · Chapter 5: A Mystery Unraveled

I apologize for falling off the map, but had to have a little surprise surgery and have been spending my time propped on pillows and giving orders like Kaladriel, the wicked elf witch of the South. I've gotten way behind in reviewing and even reading very much. I'm not sure where I left off, but I've caught up in reading this story. I must say, Nilmandra, love it as usual. Of course, I love the twins no matter what and the entrance of Arwen has just added to the mix. The interaction of much older brothers with such a small child has been interesting and well done. Like Daw has said in the past, it's interesting to ponder how much of a parental attitude enters into the relationship when there is such an age difference between siblings. Of course, the twins would be protective. I don't see how they couldn't be. I've enjoyed having Celebrian a part of the family. I loved her fierce mother stance with all the males. Most mothers 'would' tear into anything or anyone who stood in her way when the safety of her child is in question. You go, girl! Silly Erestor. This is a fight he can't win. It was a nice touch the way you allowed him to gather his thoughts and find what he thought was the appropriate direction. Elrond is hanging on to his self control, but you have given him the tension any father would feel under such a threat to his children...even the big old grown up ones. I'm looking forward to more stories that I'm guessing will come with the recovery of Arwen and Elrohir. They're both pretty beaten up at the moment. I'm thinking I may need to kiss Elrohir boo-boos for him. Hey,I qualify! I'm a mother and a nurse. Shoot! I'll even kiss poor little Arwen's...though it doesn't seem quite the same. The reason are entirely different, you see, but all very altruistic. I'm enjoying your tale and look forward to more. Karen

Fadesintothewest · 7 December 2003 · Chapter 5: A Mystery Unraveled

I am so glad that Erestor is getting his due as well! Another Elf that we do not get enough of! I love the tenderness that Glorfindel has with the twins and Arwen. He loves them so much, Elrond and Celebrian are so lucky to have him, which I am sure they know all too well. Cannot wait for the next update!

Arbelethiel · 7 December 2003 · Chapter 5: A Mystery Unraveled

My Internet connection was unreliable these last few days, so I missed 2 chapters, but now I’m rather glad I did, as I do not respond well to evil cliffhangers ;) I’m glad to know that Arwen is now more or less safe and is healing well, but now I’m worrying about Elrohir :( You seem to delight into making your characters (and your readers) suffer. Thanks for those tension-packed chapters ;) ~Arbelethiel