Reviews (398)

Karri · 18 May 2004 · Chapter 15: The Pursuit of Wisdom

An outstanding chapter, as always, Nilm. Hooray for Elrohir. It will be wonderful for him to be a bit more mobile and have some of his independence back.

daw the minstrel · 18 May 2004 · Chapter 15: The Pursuit of Wisdom

I like the Third Age family. You have made me see Elrond clearly and love him, and given life to Celebrian too. Erestor is also starting to assume a character. But it's the Second Age stuff I find the most fascinating. Annatar is just so slick and Celebrimbor makes me want to slap him even though I know bad things are going to happen to him. But it's Celeborn who is really drawing me to him in the Second Age. He's a fitting mate for the powerful Galadriel. I love him. Yes, I do.

LKK · 11 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

I have a new favorite OC -- the Cook. He's delightful! Whenever I read his dialogue, it seems to have the slightest trace of an accent to my ears. I'm not sure how you accomplished that miracle of writing, but I'm in awe. I hope the Cook appears in upcoming chapters, fulfilling his promise to do his part in nursing Elrohir back to health. I like your protrayal of Celeborn -- strong-willed and determined. He really comes across as a personality distinct from Galadriel's in this chapter. I think Celeborn had to have had a strong, independent spirit in order to a female like Galadriel to have fallen in love with him. Your history lesson brought a new way of thinking to my mind. Except for the Elven rings, I have always tended to think of the rings as totally evil. But I think you're right in that Celebrimbor would have put good (for lack of a better word) into the rings for dwarves and for men. Only Sauron's ring was totally evil; I realize now. I never thought about that before, but I think you're right. Loved the banter between Glorfindel & Erestor over the ribbon flowers. Those two are always a treat. Good chapter!

The Karenator · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

Nilmandra, I'm so glad to see the 'telling of tales' again. My favorite part of the 'tale' was when Celebrimbor gave Galadriel the Elfstone. Celeborn was a hoot. He was so busy marking his territory he didn't even catch Galadriel's ...um, irritation, until he had already ventured into dangerous waters. Males are males, no matter what race, it seems. I really like seeing Celeborn portrayed as a strong guy. He was called 'the wise', and I don't think it was because he was a 'yes, dear' kind of husband. And of course, I like Galadriel as a female with a mind of her own. They're an interesting couple to explore. I especially liked seeing Celebrian with her parents. That's another interesting and often ignored relationship. Good chapter, Nilmandra. All of it. I'll be back to see how Erestor did making his flowers. :>) Karen

eokat · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

Lovely chapter. I especially like the way the elves replenish their fea, it always seems to be such a beautiful experience, I feel quite envious. The thoughts of Glorfindel doing embroidery made me smile, but then again why not! Eokat.

Marnie · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

Time for a big smile :) I have now forgiven the whole family and rather like them again The scene of Celebrian with her parents was lovely - them getting the opportunity in to snipe (fondly) at each other while letting her know where they stood on the argument, was great fun. And it's nice to see them together as a family - there really isn't much of that in the fandom. I giggled at the fact that Glorfindel is now Arwen's new best friend! Erestor had better watch himself, being ganged up on from both sides; but at least he gets to learn a new skill. The Second Age sequence was fabulous! The thought of Celebrimbor putting all that thought and care into fine-tuning the rings for each race, only to have Annatar enslave them by that same thing, was enough to almost make me feel sorry for him. And the insight about the nine worlds being the reason there are nine rings for Men makes so much sense that I'm sure it must be right. Loved the way that Annatar just looked through Celeborn - I'm sure that's right, he wouldn't have thought Celeborn important enough to be either a threat or an ally. And I had to laugh at both of them getting het up about the other giving them orders ;) What a pair! It was nice to see though that Celeborn is wise enough to take good advice, even if he objects to how it was put. Fascinating to think that they must have known Sauron - he must have known them personally. It really adds depth to Tolkien's books. Thank you!

Jay of Lasgalen · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

A pleasant chapter, things are looking up all round. Elrohir is finally healing in body and spirit, though it's a bit worrying he can't remember the last couple of days clearly. I liked this comment: 'this creation will be something even the most terribly injured, emaciated elf could not refuse.” “I am not emaciated,” argued Elrohir with a yawn.' Hmm, he doesn't argue about being terribly injured, does he? I like the banter between Glorfindel and Erestor too, especially the fact that they do it for the audience half the time! Jay

lwarren · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

Ah Nilmandra, so much to comment on...First, the title is so cool -- the bonds forged between the family (and repaired, and strengthened) to the symbolic bonds that the rings of power would weave around their wearers. As my son would say, "Tight." Then the little scene between Celebrian and her parents - I love the way those two handle her ("Do you wish to speak or listen?"...."Would you like to hear how graceful I find you and how likely you were to have succeeded...?") Very wise, and they give her just what she needs, and then she promptly gives it back to Elrond and Elrohir. (I've forgiven her for the tantrum... :-) ). On to the little sewing lesson - I laughed all the way through this part. The golden one is a tricksy elf, isn't he? And Erestor is a willing slave to the princess, who does have him wrapped around her finger, for sure! Elbows and needle jabs, and Arwen's "I do not want Glorfindel injured" ... too funny, and touching. "Silly games they might play, but they also played to make their audience smile." Annoying, irritating, confounding,...wonderful, tender-hearted, loyal elves! Elladan tickling his brother's palm...and their little heart-to-heart talk about El's new abilities. The cook's offer to cook for Elrohir all night, if needed, and finally that tense, somewhat spooky tale of the making of the rings. "His eyes lit into a dance. 'Then the Nine.' " Oooooooooo *shudders*. A MOST satisfying chapter! (Actually - wonderful!) And more thanks for your informative notes at the end. I like reading about what your research has revealed, and the conclusions you've drawn from it. linda

Bejai · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

Oh, hooray! Your timing of this chapter is just perfect -- right when I'm desperate for a break. I read it early, early this morning, when I was supposed to by studying for a final ;) Bah to finals. Loved the interaction between Celebrian and her parents. There is so little of that family's interaction in the fandom, and so it is most welcome, especially in loving and non-angsy doses. And C&G's barbs at one another within the little game cracked me up. Loved Glorfindel and Erestor poking at one another. Figuratively and literally. And Elladan asked the question I've been wondering -- could Elrond and Elros have done the same thing? I suppose we'll never know. I'm really quite fond of the cook who keeps poking in and out of the story. Sometimes these minor characters are such a joy! Amusing too that Galadriel can't remember exactly when they picked him up. He probably just joined their company 30 or 40 centuries ago and has been cooking ever since. Annatar in simply chilling, especially regarding the rings. And his interaction with Galadriel and Celeborn just oozes with malice. I can't help but think that some of the tragedy that befalls them later is a direct result of the fact that Sauron had a personal hatred of them both. And poor Celebrimbor! He really wasn't a bad guy, but was terribly deceived and seduced. I like your nod to that -- how Celebrimbor thought of the strengths of each race and Sauron the weaknesses. Just a lovely, complex chapter. Very much enjoyed it, and looking forward to more.

Bodkin · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

I loved the Galadriel / Celebrian / Celeborn interaction. So sweet. (It must be quite difficult to be the child of two such strong parents!) The history lessons are fascinating - I'm discovering lots!

LKK · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

One thing I didn't understand in this chapter. When Erestor said, “I understand two bags of feathers are being plucked from the reeds to make bird nests south of Tharbad,” where was he going with that statement? Author Reply: Erestor was also jumping on Elrond for second guessing himself. when they sent supplies over, in this case feathers for the featherbed, some of the baskets of items were lost. Caught in the wind or hit by debris - and carried away downstream - exactly the fear Elrond had of Celebrian's fate had she crossed. My apologies - I know I am *too* subtle sometimes! LOL -- no, sometimes I'm too imaginative for my own good. I knew that Erestor was chiding Elrond for second-guessing himself, but I couldn't figure out how his comment about the feathers was going to accomplish this. See, I missed or had forgotten that some of the mattress feathers didn't make it across the river. What I imagined from Erestor's description was this .... I pictured farmers with satchel-like bags slung over their shoulders wading through the shores of the river, walking among the reeds growing at the river's edge, and harvesting those feather-like plumes that grow at the top of the reed stalks. Now why the farmers would want to take the reed plumes and make birds' nests out of them was beyond me. And even more beyond me was why Erestor was using this image to chide Elrond! Like I said sometimes I'm *too* imaginative. Or maybe I've watched too many documentaries on ancient Eygpt. :) LKK

daw the minstrel · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

As I was drawn by the First Age story in HLI, I love the Second Age story here. Annatar is absolutely creepy. He's so oily and slick and just strange! The scene where he is working on the rings is wonderful. And Galadriel and Celeborn are such a strong couple. One can imagine them clashing, but also loving very strongly. This is not to say that I didn't enjoy the Third Age stuff. Arwen and her two admirers made me laugh. I also liked the scene between Celebrian and her parents. We don't see the three of them treated as a family much. I liked it.

shirebound · 6 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

Absolutely fascinating chapter. I'm just amazed at your vision of the forging of the rings (and the reasons and numbers behind each set) -- and that of the Elessar. Your story just enchants me. "Celebrimbor spent many hours in thought, thinking of the strengths of each race and where their eyes would see beauty. Sauron spent his thoughts determining the weakness of each race and how best to enslave them." Perfect.

Karri · 6 May 2004 · Chapter 14: Bonds Forged

Very entertaining chapter, Nilm. It was nice to have some lighter-hearted moments after all the tension of the previous chapters. :-D

LKK · 4 May 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

Poor Celebrian. She must have felt like dirt after seeing her children's expressions. My heart went out to her. But she handled the situation like the true lady she is. Her apologies were very touching. (Nice writing!) I think this time Elrohir might be on the real road to recovery! Yay!! I liked the scene between Erestor and Glorfindel. Not many authors would have thought to include that. But I'm glad you did. Thank you for the history lesson. One thing I didn't understand in this chapter. When Erestor said, “I understand two bags of feathers are being plucked from the reeds to make bird nests south of Tharbad,” where was he going with that statement?

lwarren · 3 May 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

The arrival and acceptance of Annatar by Celebrimbor and the brotherhood was most ~creepy~. I have always found it unnerving the way Prof. Tolkien made Sauron, the Deceiver, a creature of light and beauty, just like Melkor/Morgoth started out (and the meaning of his name...how appropriate!), but then evil has always been that way, I guess. What a terrific addition to the story! It had a little bit of everything, starting with Celebrian's realization of the damage her anger caused to everyone, the reconciliation, and the healing/improvement of Elrohir. But I especially loved the little bits of humor you threw in off and on .... I found myself giggling throughout the chapter :). The Silvan cook was great - everyone grinning at Elrond "the morning after" was great, and Celebrian's "If their mothers did not teach them to cover their ears, there is naught I can do"... priceless!!! Another well-done...need a thesaurus to find some other synonymns for great, terrific, etc. ;) linda (gasp!!!! I have become a History Lessons junkie! next fix, please?)

The Karenator · 2 May 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

Nilmandra, Another good chapter. I'm glad to see Elrond and Celebrian have put aside their quarrel with a sweet little time to 'make up'. I'm sure they were very quiet, but you know those elf ears! Elrond has witnessed and asked about the close bond of the twins. Elrohir is showing improvement. Arwen is happy as a clam in her daernana's lap. I hope it's time for a few good tales. I'm really looking forward to that! I'm still in awe of the last "History Lessons" and how elegantly and clearly you explained some of Tolkien's most complex writing. I'm seated, have my cup of coffee, and I'm ready when you are. Wonderful as always. Carry on, Karen

Jay of Lasgalen · 30 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

I'm so glad you've got back to this story with regular updates - I missed them, despite the other tale. Thank God Celebrian realised the harm she'd done, and at least she did exactly the right thing to put things right. The way Elladan stood was so touching, and so heartbreaking - that he felt the need to protect his brother and sister from their own mother. So Elrohir is finally beginning to heal in spirit as well as in body, and Elrond and Celebrian have made up - I loved the way the whole camp knew as well! Great stuff, Nilmandra, as always. Jay

Bejai · 30 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

Oh, marvelous chapter, Nilmandra! The entire thing was perfect, but these are my favorite bits: The idea that because Elrond and Celebrian are one in spirit, and their children bound to them collectively, the children suffer at the rift. What a breathtaking point! And so right. The cook. Just a great little touch with him -- he's one of those people who truly believes that a little warm food goes a long way toward healing the soul. And of course, he's right :) Making up. I mean, c'mon, who can't resist a little Elrond/Celebrian lovin'? It was great having Celeborn give Elrond a dig about it too. Elrohir's smile. That is such an apt point. There are the meaningless, polite smiles we give to people every day. And then there are smiles that are gifts, smiles that really do communicate from the depth of our souls. Elrond seconding-guessing himself. But Galadriel's got his back. The flashback. I like that Celeborn was a little hesitant at first. It would be hard to tell this story, because it ends in his own failure and mistakes. Not the kind of story you really want to be telling to your grandkids. I think it's absolutely spot-on the Annatar gets into the city before Celeborn and Galadriel notice. I think they would have heeded Gil-galad's warning if they had been given a chance, so that Annatar weazels his way in with the Mirdain first seems right to me. I loved to how you described Annatar -- beautiful, fair -- and yet, you dropped in one or two foreboding hints. I'm very much looking forward to seeing what happens next! And blushing that you would mention my story. Most kind of you.

Bodkin · 30 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

Love the dramatic irony - Elrond couldn't bear to lose Celebrian; the twins utterly content to be reunited with their mother. I liked seeing Celeborn tease Elrond and make him blush. Galadriel made me laugh with her, 'spouses do not always take well to being commanded'. Do we find out which of them was doing the commanding, and which one didn't take it well?

Marnie · 30 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

Very much enjoyed the 2nd Age snippet. The arrival of Annatar was a great place to start, and he made an appropriately sinister impression. I loved the description of him, so that you weren't entirely sure what he was. I hadn't thought that it might not have been clear he was a Maia. No wonder no one seemes to know what to make of him for so long. Like Arwen I'm eager to hear about the birth of Celebrian, and maybe hope to see more of Celebrimbor (who's always a bit of an enigma to me. How come he's so famous when he's such a pratt? ;) ) Many thanks for the heads up for the site. I won't burden you with my thoughts about sexist!Elrond and wimp!Celebrian, but suffice it to say I was heavily emotionally involved with this chapter and still want to shake the whole family until their teeth rattle ;) Thank goodness they're over it now!

Karri · 30 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

A beautiful chapter, Nilm. It'd good to see the family reconciled. You had me worried for Eltohir, the poor sensitive soul, but hopefully he will speed on his way back to health now. It's good, also, that Elrond finally has someone else's strength to draw from -- you had me worrying about him, as well. I thought it nice that Galadriel sided with him, very wise of her. ;-) It's sweet that Arwen is so partial to her daernanath's arms. Great chapter!

eokat · 30 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

Hi Nilmandra, I am just getting into this. I have read part one to get into the swing of things. I do not usually read Elrond [my heart is forever Eomer, with Thranduil as a close second]But after the intervention of Elladan and Elrohir in HUNTING I have not been dissapointed. Also looking forward to your getting back[hopefully] to more Thranduil and Legolas. I must know about Rawien and Tathiel and their elfling. Eokat.

daw the minstrel · 30 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

I particularly liked Elrond worrying about whether he and Celebrian had been quiet. He is so endearing. The working of the family bond were interesting here too: Celebrian and Elrond bonded to one another and being damaged when the bond was disrupted, and the children being bonded to both. And I am so glad to be back in the Second Age. I expect to learn a lot.

mistry89 · 30 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Reconciliation

Nice to see that even now (well, Third Age) elves can make mistakes - sometimes it seems that only the earlier elves messed up :) Never much of a tv watcher, I nevertheless must have been particularly keen to resume my online reading last Saturday night (ignoring a documentary I would, normally, have been keen to watch), and my son asked what I was reading .... and so toddled back to school on Sunday evening with History Lessons on his laptop (they have only sporadic internet access, and never in the dorm). He only got as far as Chapter 4 during the week, but is enjoying it, especially the "modern" storyline (I thought he would prefer the "historical" one, but I think he is taken with your Elladan and Elrohir!). So, another convert to the wonder that is Tolkien fanfiction! Thank you, for entertaining me ... and now, himself!