Reviews (398)

Jay of Lasgalen · 6 September 2004 · Chapter 22: War in Eregion Part IV: The Fall of Eregion

What a very tense, complex chapter. Erestor is a revelation, scouting behind enemy lines and sneaking right into Celeborn's tent under the noses of his guards! The deaths and injuries are tragic, especially the elf who held his dead son. Very sad. When first Glorfindel, then Elrond, fell it made me jump, even though I knew they survived. It's so good to see Elrohir recovered at long last, even if he did have a bad hair day! The love and laughter between him and Arwen is lovely. Jay

Creashuns · 6 September 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

Thank you for the Excellent Chapter! This is quite possibly my ~*Favorite Fic~* out there!!! Please continue soon! Creashuns

Bodkin · 6 September 2004 · Chapter 22: War in Eregion Part IV: The Fall of Eregion

Absolutely wonderful and comprehensive and well-thought-through. A fantastic combining of humour and lightness with the tragedy of war - pictures of pain, like the death of the ellon who fought with Celebrian, Celebrimbor's end, the vivid imaging of the ground over which they fought. All the factual elements drawn in and stirred up with the personalities and personal experience of those elves we care about. I shall read this again - several times, I expect, before I have absorbed it fully. And the Second Age stuff is just lovely. Elrohir recovered in spirit - the hair-styling competition - the cook - the description of the ring coming alive and singing to Elrond - Glorfindel's reluctant acceptance and proviso - and at the end, Glorfindel's invocation of Valinor and Galadriel's longing, foreshadowing her eventual departure. I'm glad Celeborn appeared to have come to terms with her use of the ring - I can imagine a very intense wordless tussle between them here, with neither prepared to concede an inch - but I like to think that he knew the use of the ring was inevitable and that he would agree that Elrohir's recovery is a good cause. I may be forced to review again when I have had a chance to reread, but this is just brilliant stuff. I can understand that it took time to write - but I am sure that you will realise that it has left me hungry for more.

Amlee · 5 September 2004 · Chapter 22: War in Eregion Part IV: The Fall of Eregion

I haven't reviewed in a while, but I have been keeping up with the story. As always this is a great story. I am learning more through these story than I did when I read the books. I look forward to more updates (I was starting to worry about this). Also to future stories that you have plan. I am still waiting on Estel to make his grand entrance in your future story.

Karri · 5 September 2004 · Chapter 22: War in Eregion Part IV: The Fall of Eregion

A rather melancholic chapter, Nilm. Beautifully written, as always. Elrohir, Arwen and their hair adventure was a lovely scene. :-)

shirebound · 23 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

The details! I'm continually awestruck by the way you're weaving past and present, Nilmandra. And what better description of a High King could there be than this... "if a king is unwilling to give that which is of the most value to him, how can he ask the same of his people?"

Aramel · 16 August 2004 · Chapter 20: War in Eregion Part II: Moria to Lorinand

Ooh, this is funny. I wonder what dare Celebrian lost, though? She doesn't seem to want to tell. >:)

Jay of Lasgalen · 14 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

The description, although non-specific, of what Erestor had to see was horrible, but a reminder of what war is like. No wonder it had such an effect on everyone. Poor Elrohir, I wondered how much more he was going to have to suffer! The re-infection of his leg sounded awful, no wonder he felt so ill. I'm glad Galadriel finally used Nenya to heal him. Jay

paranoidangel · 12 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

I did like the author's notes for that chapter. And History Lessons is saving me from having to read the UT (haven't quite got to it yet). Although the Third Age stuff is great too. I did like Galadriel going and using the ring over Celeborn's objections. But I imagine he's not going to argue too much given that it's helped his grandson.

Elena Tiriel · 11 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

**Choke** Did I just call you Daw??? Sorry, Nilmandra. Brain wasn't in gear. (At least I reviewed the right story, I think...) - Barbara

Elena Tiriel · 11 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

Also, I love your Author's Notes -- except that reaching them means that I've passed the end of the chapter, which always happens far too quickly, and leaves me wanting more! - Barbara

Elena Tiriel · 11 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

Well, I go away for a few days and come back to find this... lucky me! Compelling, as usual, Daw. You've turned Erestor into such an interesting, many-layered character, and are helping us to see how he could develop into the responsible Elf he did. No one could possibly be prepared for meeting Orcs in combat, especially witnessing a civilian ambush in progress and not being able to stop it... The father that Erestor saw, torn in two between conflicting responsibilities... just heart-breaking. I know others have commented on this, but it tears my heart out to know what is going to happen... and the effect it will have on all the family, but especially the twins. The vision of them as grey killing machines chasing Orcs across the plains of Calenardhon in the Battle of the Field of Celebrant is such a compelling one. I wasn't surprised by the very matter-of-fact way that your Galadriel used the ring to heal Elrohir. I thought you did a particularly effective job of using Erestor's POV to describe the events and everyone else's reactions, even though he didn't understand at that time quite what was happening. So perfectly Erestorly, that he "tucked away" the information until it could be understood or used. Great chapter, Nilmandra! Thank you! - Barbara P.S. and thank you for the pointers on where to find additional info on Durin's Crown. I'm embarrassed to say that I'm one of these illiterates who skip over the songs, so I completely missed the reference in the Song of Durin (Khazad-dûm).

phoenix23531 · 11 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

Sorry for the LONG space between reviews. I disappeared from the face of the earth - literally. I moved from NY to Australia, and am severely missing my near-constant access to the Internet for reading and reviewing. I finally got the opportunity to read up on the chapters I had missed, and Wow! Your ability to blend the histories into your own universe is remarkable. I particularly liked the characterisation of Galadriel and Celeborn, as that was pretty much my impression of them from the ... was it the Unfinished Tales? I can't remember now. Quite honestly, this story has cemented, for me, a great deal of the Silmarillion, Unfinished Tales and even what little of the HoME I have read so far into a very vivid working memory. I can now remember events that Tolkien wrote about much more clearly (and have even used that to explain things to other people, much to their dismay) and as I am reading HoME, things are beginning to fall into place a bit faster than they were doing before this story. Thank you! I found I was dreading the references of orcs brutalising women, as it seemed such a foreshadowing of Celebrian's own fate. The way you worked that subtly into the story and then made Elrohir almost blatantly foreshadow it was very interesting. It really brought home the destruction that such a despicable act would wreak on such a close and encompassing family (including all the various advisors, grand parents, captains, etc.). That was, for me, one of the saddest tools Tolkien employed to develop his characters, and the effect on Elrond (arguably my favourite character) always makes me sad. I'm glad to see you have added elements of how Celebrian's fate would eventually affect them all, as it sets up their characters very well. On a much lighter note, Glorfindel and Celeborn's relationship is priceless! As is the relationship between Glorfindel and Erestor. Come to think of it, as are most of the other relationships you have developed...sheesh! But the first two in particular really add a great deal to the tale, not just in humour but in the way they both protect the ring-bearers. I thought it wonderful that you had Galadriel be the one to first use the ring (or so I'm assuming). I'm sure Glorfindel and/or Celeborn would have forced Elrond into swearing not to use vilya, but Galadriel is a whole other kettle of fish. Just as slippery and independent-minded, too! All the best, and I look forward to reading more, Emma phoenix23531

lwarren · 10 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

Yay! *does a happy dance* An UPDATE!...and what an update it is! There are some stand out, gut-wrenching moments in this chapter, too. Gil-Galad understanding he must stay behind to bargain with Numenor (when he left the others and was pacing back and forth). His pain over letting the army leave, with Elrond in command...the kiss on the brow *sniff*...so sad! The elf at the fountain who decides to stay, rather than sail...weeping as he watches his little ones play, fingering that sword, and wondering if the army will take him...Poor Erestor and his inadequate feelings because he doesn't know what to say to this poor, grieving father. The attack on the farm...from the viewpoint of the experienced and the inexperienced...and they both were devastated by it! Though we know what orcs do, it still remains horrifying! Poor Elrohir! The elfling can't catch a break (no pun intended ;-) )...until, that is, his Grandma decides to intervene. Now THAT was interesting...not so much what she did (we know her abilities and powers, and her strong will), but more the reactions of those who witnessed her intervention. Question: Does her use of Nenya bind her more and more to the power and lure of the ring itself and would that make her more susceptible to the influence of the One Ring...is that why Celeborn objects so strongly to her use of it?? (3 ?'s...and I'll bet you have addressed this in an earlier chapter...if so, forgive my short term memory!) Also, apparently Erestor does not know she is a Ringbearer yet, does he? Great chapter...great notes, too. I really like reading your thoughts about the events of SA, especially the Numenoreans, whom I have not had too much interest in, until now. Wonderful, as always, Nilmandra. linda (just to let you know, I was so missing your stories, I pulled out Hunting last night and started rereading it again! :-) never think you are not missed!)

eokat · 10 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

Loved it as usual. Your writing always makes me feel that I am there with them. Eokat.

Bodkin · 10 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

'Memories of other young elves near the age of the twins came to mind, and he thought of how many of them he had watched die, and how many he had held until they answered Mandos’s call. He looked suddenly at his own hands, and thought of all the tears and blood that had fallen upon them.' What a fantastic telling of a tragic story - without making it sugar-coated, or dwelling unnecessarily on visions of gore. Erestor makes an excellent narrator of this part of the story. Living with the memory often seems to be a major part of having seen warfare, and the elves, of course, have more to remember and recall it more clearly than anyone else. Such love and loss and courage. The orc part was revolting - and I could see it affecting Elladan and Elrohir quite strongly after just hearing about their mother and grandmother's experience. Stories are one thing - but knowing the people who endured them is quite another. 'But I am grateful they are only hearing our stories rather than living their own.' Poor Elladan and Elrohir. Their friends and family longing to keep them safe, yet knowing they cannot - and the reader knowing of their loss, grief and long battles. 'he noticed Elrond fingering his tunic, a slight outline of a pouch visible beneath the fabric. “Elrohir will recover; it is only a matter of time,” said Celeborn firmly.' Poor Celeborn! It's like trying to fight the wind - both Elrond and Galadriel are on the verge of using those rings and there is nothing that he can do or say that will stop them. And the results might not (and here, weren't) bad, but once let out, nothing will be able to tuck them away again. Pandora's box. Typical Galadriel to do it anyway - and to help her grandson. Celeborn might be resigned - but I would like to see the confrontation with Galadriel where he put his point of view. I can see her, having got her own way, listening quite calmly to her husband's thoughts on the matter. I am glad Elrohir seems to be recovering - have I said that before? Let's hope this time he continues to get better! (I was going to say some stuff about over-expansionism of empires and Russian fronts, but I've wittered on enough.)

The Karenator · 9 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

Nilmandra, Wow! I can't tell you how impressed I am with your knowledge and ease of story telling about the Second Age. I was just glued to the story, reading it slowly and trying to catch each word. I knew I was a little out of control when I found myself worrying about Celeborn getting killed. Duh. He's around later. You also did a wonderful job of showing the confusion of leaders trying to determine the right path when it looks as if war is coming, and the confusion of the elves themselves in trying to make the right decision about staying or sailing. The young father was heartbreaking. I could just imagine the questions he had to ask himself about priorities, loyalties and the simpliest, yet most difficult question often to answer, what is right and what is wrong. Erestor's mission was certainly a difficult one. He was still so young and innocent to war that the farm being burned was surely a difficult thing to see. I suppose that even seasoned warriors would never adjust to something that. I think Maecheneb reassured him well that somethings are never easy. He had a hint of Maltanaur in his personality, wise and patient, but not afraid to offer his direction to a younger elf. (You know what a sucker I am for Eilian's keeper. I think Maecheneb could be right up there with him.) Maybe it's just the older, wiser elf syndrome. :>) Poor Elrohir! Personally, I'm on Galadriel's side. I would have done whatever I needed to do, too. Celeborn will come out of the woods eventually. Even your notes at the end of the chapter are very interesting. I read them with the same rapt attention I read the chapter. This is just great, Nilmandra. I'm still enjoying every word. I'm looking forward to the next installment. Karen

Naneth · 9 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

A new chapter. Oh, happy day! The foreshadowing in this chapter made it so sad. I cannot imagine how the very sensitive twins were able to deal with their mother's misfortune. It must have been awful. Thanks for updating. More soon, please!

LKK · 9 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

So Galadriel finally uses Nenya. It seems right that she would first use it to aid a loved one and would do so without consulting anyone or admitting that she had done so. Very in keeping with how I envision such a powerful elf. I liked seeing the SA from Erestor's viewpoint. I think the most touching moment in this chapter was the unnamed elven father, almost torn in two by his diametrically opposed duties. That little scene was heartwrenching. Good chapter, Nilmandra. Now, will you please stop doing bad things to Elrohir!

daw the minstrel · 9 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

I thought this was a compelling and terrible picture of war, told through the young eyes of Erestor. I liked watching Gil-galad confer with his advisors and decide to send, with great difficulty, to send Elrond. I am just riveted by this picture of the Second Age which has never before seemed very compelling to me.

Karri · 9 August 2004 · Chapter 21: War in Eregion Part III: Lindon to Eregion

I think you did a terrific job of it, Nilm. There was enough detail to give an impression of the horror of the scene, without squeeking me. But, oi!, Galadriel used her ring...it was a given she would not be able to resist temptation, being attracted to power as she is, and with her grandmother instinct going full force....still Celeborn cannot be pleased, even if he is resigned, and Glorfindel's sadness is understandable.

Bodkin · 9 August 2004 · Chapter 20: War in Eregion Part II: Moria to Lorinand

History has always been my favourite subject - and I am looking forward to some more Lessons!

Del · 27 July 2004 · Chapter 20: War in Eregion Part II: Moria to Lorinand

*looks at blank review for she just accidentally sent in* Well, that was stupid. Moving on, indeed I did read HL and HL 2 in three days. Twice. Each. There went my two days off from work. At least I don't have school right now or I would be grievously far behind after that little adventure. I continue to be impressed, both with your skill at intertwining established canon and original narrative and with how thoroughly you cite passages and note when you deviate from them. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate that. Lovely work, ma'am. Yours, Del

Del · 27 July 2004 · Chapter 20: War in Eregion Part II: Moria to Lorinand

paranoidangel · 26 July 2004 · Chapter 20: War in Eregion Part II: Moria to Lorinand

I love that Galadriel and Celebrian can fight as well as the male elves - I'd have expected nothing less. I can definitely see Arwen growing up to be just the same.