Reviews (376)

Dot · 1 August 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

I was thinking about this earlier today. I know I’m shamefully behind in reviewing and I really apologise for that. I have been reading it as you post but somehow I’m getting further and further behind. Anyway, I decided that the best thing is probably to jump back in here so that I’m semi-up-to-date and then catch up with the three chapters I missed if and when I can. I hope that’s o.k. I don’t know if I’ve said it before but I really like your Arwen. And I especially like the relationship between her and Elrond. In the ‘present’ in this chapter she comes across as a wonderful mixture of strength and gentleness and her father seems to respect her as much as he loves her. And she understands her father in a way that few others do. I was just fascinated by the explanation of the role of the One Ring in aiding the shard, and yet at the same time giving Frodo some strength where he might have had none. The idea of Elrond using Vilya to “subdue” the Ring is also so interesting. I’d never really considered it, I suppose. That whole scene where they discuss what needs to be done should the shard claim Frodo is very powerful. It really shows us just how much danger Frodo is in. And poor Bilbo. That hobbit has a lot of courage and faith in Elrond that he accepted the decision. I think my favourite parts of this section were when Aragorn goes and kisses Arwen and when Glorfindel tells Elrond that ‘Your hands will not do this thing, should it be necessary.’ Elrond is incredibly lucky to have Glorfindel and I like the fact that he knows that and the reader is always aware of how much Elrond appreciates him. Lovely moment when Arwen kisses Sam! He might not agree, but I think Sam deserved to feel appreciated. I adore your use of Elrond sleeping as a transition between scenes. It’s so effective. And I had to smile at the way everything is coming together, with people starting to arrive in Imladris from far afield. For me, this is the most poignant moment in the whole chapter: “He walked to the bed, noting the rumpled coverlet, and for a moment he forgot that he had been the one to disturb the bedclothes earlier that day. He saw silver hair spilling across the deep blue material and knew he had wandered on to the path of dreams, for there she sometimes appeared, and always she was his bright Celebrían, his comfort and support no matter how dark the days.” There’s something very lonely about this image of Elrond. The whole Celebrían part was very sensitively written, I thought. It’s so sad. You did an incredible job portraying how all her joy in life is gone and how she loves her family and wants to be well, but simply hasn’t the strength. The idea that she wasn’t even able to make simple decisions for herself is very realistic and it makes complete sense that Elrond is the one who has to decide this for her. But my heart is broken for him. I had tears in my eyes reading the part where he flees to the garden and Galadriel and Celeborn come to him. This is the image that made me pause for a moment and really wish that I could draw: “She slid her hand down his arm, taking his hand firmly in her own. Celeborn had seated himself next to them, one hand resting lightly on Elrond’s arm.” I’m glad they could bring Elrond even the tiniest bit of comfort, even if it’s just by showing that they love him and by supporting his decision. The two of them must be experiencing such anguish too. And apart from the fact that they have to watch their daughter suffer, I imagine neither of them is used to such a feeling of helplessness. I like the idea of a connection between Elrond and Galadriel in that they’re both feeling such guilt that even with the rings they couldn’t help Celebrían. It probably sounds ridiculous but at least by having Galadriel there, Elrond can see that there really is nothing that can be done, no matter how much power any of them have. It was hard to read about how tormented Celebrían is in her sleep. Her obvious need for her husband too must make it so hard for Elrond to let her go, even as it drives home how much she needs to go and find real healing. I really felt for Arwen when she realises what’s happening her mother and runs to Elrond to share her concerns with him. It was so interesting to see that their children could have gone with Celebrían. That never dawned on me. But in some ways it must be harder for them to choose what to do. Gosh, how different things would have been. I really like the moment when we realise that she won’t abandon her father: “She could feel shadow encroaching, her father fighting it with all his power and might, and she felt desperately afraid for him, and ashamed that he was fighting it alone.” I really love Erestor. He’s less demonstrative than Glorfindel but just as supportive. Taking the burden of the practical side of things away from Elrond seems to be his way to show his love and to concern. Elrond allowing Erestor to help him in that way probably helps Erestor to some extent too. The embroidery was a good idea of Galadriel’s. I’ve seen that very thing work. It gives Celebrían something to do with her hands and she’ll feel like she’s creating something beautiful, yet it isn’t too taxing. I don’t know how you managed to write the scene between Elrond and Celebrían. I could hardly bear to read it. I felt there seemed to be enough of her old self still there for her to realise to some extent that this is hard for Elrond, and what must happen before he can be with her. There’s also a sense of almost relief in her that a decision has been made. Perhaps it will help to know that at some point there will be a change in this painful routine she’s living. I was so very afraid that she might pull away from him because that would break his heart completely. The scene between Elrond and his sons is another difficult one. Elladan needs patience that the rest of them just don’t have the strength for. I feel so sorry for Elrohir, who has to deal with his own grief and his brother’s pain. The moment when Elrond casts Vilya away is just incredible. The effect on him, and on the whole atmosphere, was just so well done. The despair and bitterness in Elrond was quite frightening. Perhaps even more frightening is the realisation of how tied Elrond is to the ring and the glimpse of what he might be like when the day comes that Vilya loses her power - “a mere shell.” “I could not reach her,” she said softly.” That moment is so sad. Celebrían truly is beyond any of them now except Elrond and even he knows that all he can do is try to keep the terror away while she sleeps. I loved the scene with Mithrandir so much. The glimpse of him as he really is and the power he possesses is just breathtaking. I can’t tell you how glad I was that he could offer genuine comfort and hope to Elrond, as well as knowledge that this is the right decision. It was such a beautiful moment. This story is just amazing! There’s so much in your chapters that I probably haven’t mentioned a lot of things – but I wanted to let you know how much I love this story and how truly impressed I am by your skill :-)

The Karenator · 1 August 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

I hardly know where to start. This chapter was so heart wrenching. And so believable. I was fascinated by how the elven rings interacted with the One Ring. To be honest, I've never thought about it until now. Your take on this makes so much sense. The elven rings were unsullied by Sauron's hand. I can see where they wielded a power, a purer power, that pushed against the darkness that encompassed the One Ring. Very interesting stuff. I also thought that the way Elrond used Vilya to stay the piece of the wraith's sword in Frodo's shoulder was terrific. The part where Elrond told everyone what must be done to prevent Frodo from entering into dark service to Sauron was as difficult to read as I'm sure it was for the friends and family of Frodo to hear. Poor Bilbo. I could just see the sweet old fellow completely weighed down by this realization. How much responsibility he must have felt. The Celebrian story was a two tissue alert. Your explanation about how she was slowly fading before their eyes was so on target. Elrond could heal her body, but her spirit was slowly distancing itself from the pain of existence. I could feel the desperation of her family as they watched her slowly leaving them. Really, Elrond had no other decision he could make. He had to let her go. And of course, he had to make this decision. The hardest part must have been not being able to go with her. When Galadriel put her hand over Elrond's and reminded him of the oath he had made to stay until the end...whatever that end might be...I could hear her voice, commanding, yet full of sorrow. A great scene. I can't say I blame Elrond for pitching Vilya. His physical tie to ring was stronger than I think he even expected and I can also see why he didn't think he'd do that again. Good old Glorfindel was a good friend and careful watcher for Elrond. He is a supportive guy for Elrond to have around. But I have to say that my favorite scene was the one with Gandalf. I got a thrill out of him revealing himself to Elrond. A Maia offering comfort and reassurance was certainly what Elrond needed at that point. The peace that Mithrandir brought to Elrond was just a little taste of what Celebrian would be surrounded with in Valinor. A wonderful chapter, Nilmandra. Just wonderful. I think I'll go read it again. Karen

French Pony · 31 July 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

I really liked the discussion of what to do if they couldn't get the shard out of Frodo. It emphasized how serious the situation was, that they would have to consider killing him if they didn't save him. And the question of who would do the dirty deed underlined that these are the Good Guys. Celebrían really isn't doing too well, either. I liked the way you showed her slowly withdrawing from the world and the way her family pulled together to find comfort from each other. And I was very glad that Mithrandir showed up to demonstrate what they would do for Celebrían in Valinor, because Elrond was in dire need of some comfort. He's doing a lot of taking care of people and arranging passage and explaining things, but no one really thinks to take care of him. Except Celeborn and Galadriel, and even then, they're reminding him to deal with Vilya as well.

meckinock · 31 July 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

This chapter aure took a lot out of everyone (no one more than the author, I am sure.) The healing of Frodo really expanded on the minimal account we get in canon. It was interesting how Elrond and later Gandalf used his ring to subdue the power of the One. I had not thought before about how the other rings might have been wielded against the One. Elrond's thoughts about Aragorn and Arwen were so...Elrond. He is happy for them and determined not to hurt them, even if it kills him. I noticed that later, though, he makes sure he walks Arwen to her chambers...alone LOL. I felt terrible for poor Bilbo. It must have been hardest of all for him to see Frodo in such a state. I really liked Glorfindel, staunch and loyal friend as always, taking care of Elrond, in both story tracks. Now, in the back half of the story - wow. You did such a wonderful job of conveying Elrond's endless guilt and despair. First he has to realize that the only answer is to send Celebrian to Valinor. Then he has to tell his wife, who has only barely hung on this long because of his constant support, that he's sending her away and not coming with her, then he has to tell his daughter and lay the choice on her as well (interesting dilemma; I hadn't questioned before the fact that nobody went with Celebrian but really you would have thought someone would); then he has to tell his already grief and guilt-stricken and highly emotional sons, and his wife's heartbroken parents. Geez. No wonder he pitched Vilya in the waterfall. Which I think was the single most powerful moment since Thranduil put Eilian on his knees, by the way. Elrond's reaction to being without Vilya was really well done. And the scene where Glorfindel finds Elrond and puts the ring back on his finger was touching. The second most heart-wrenching moment in the chapter, I think (though it's a crowded field!) was Galadriel, confessing that she can no longer reach her daughter. But wow, Gandalf really stole the chapter. I loved it when he showed himself to Elrond and promised him that Celebrian would be truly healed. That was wonderful.

Dreamflower · 31 July 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

I am so loving this double story, the way in which the battle to save Frodo is intertwined with the battle for Celebrian. I loved the way Bilbo was included in the discussion of Frodo's fate. I loved your notion that in Vilya's presence, the One becomes dormant. This is a theory I've had as well, that without being on Its Master's hand, the One cannot challenge the Three alone. I loved the care being taken for Frodo, and the way in which Elrond's heart has become bound up in healing him. And the story of Celebrian is just so sad and melancholy, I wish I could just tell Elrond that it's all going to turn out all right, somehow.

rikwen · 31 July 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

What a powerful chapter. All of the characters seemed to walk across the stage at some point but you used each one to point out the agony of waiting for Frodo to heal enough so Elrond can remove the Nazgul's shard from his shoulder. The cast is also increasing with the appearance of the dwarves and Cirdan's representative. Even knowing what is going to happen doesn't make this any easier to read! I have always enjoyed reading your Glorfindel, who always seems to be there when Elrond and Elrond's family has need of him. But in this chapter I am enthralled by your Arwen. She has come so far from the small ellyth who stole away on a barge with her brothers on adventure to now being a strong individual who assists in nursing Frodo, lends her strength to her Adar, and quietly supports Aragorn. And your back story of Elrond and Celebrian is heart rending. There is so much angst here for Elrond, making that decision that his soul mate can only heal by sailing west. His anger, his denial and finally his acceptance of the situation is placed on such an act of faith that Celebrian will be healed in Valinor. Knowing that he cannot follow either makes one wonder at his strength of character in staying on to fight when nothing appears as if anyone will defeat Sauron. There is so much here to like in this chapter that I could rattle on for pages. I am looking forward to you continuing the story to the meeting of the council.

Elemmíre · 31 July 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

Wow–what a chapter! Both parts were handled excellantly! Elemmíre

shirebound · 31 July 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

To his surprise, he saw Mithrandir change before him, the lines of his face smoothing and his hair darkening, while his eyes grew gentle. He reached out and took Elrond’s hand in his own, and Elrond felt the touch of his spirit. At the gentle probing, he opened his heart and allowed the Maia in. ‘We are spirits, Elrond, clothing ourselves in body merely so the Eldar may see and speak with us. In the Gardens of Lorien, where even the Valar go for rest and refreshment, Celebrían will find healing. Her spirit will be reached by those who exist as spirit.’ Elrond felt himself surrounded by warmth and love, as if he were himself a young child lying in his mother’s arms in the sunshine of the most peaceful garden. Mithrandir’s touch on his spirit was tender and gentle, yet also strong and confident. An overwhelming sense of peace settled upon him as he was assured that Celebrían would be cared for. ‘Celebrían is strong in spirit. She will be healed, Elrond,” promised Mithrandir, “not just taken care of.’ What a marvelous passage, Nilmandra. I tend to forget that Gandalf is so much more than what he seems. You've surrounded Elrond with such love and support... as Frodo is surrounded.

elliska · 31 July 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

This is hard to review...I don't even know where to begin. You did not miss a single opportunity with this and I know I will miss a great deal trying to comment on everything I liked. This discussion of Frodo was just heart breaking. I really like Elrond's anaysis of how the shard/Ring is harming Frodo, and his conclusion on how to react if the worst happened was so sad. Bilbo's reaction made tears come to my eyes. That scene was especially poignant mirrored by Elrond's decision in the past about his own family--sending Celebrian to Valinor is essentially the same thing, from the perspective of those left in M-e. I don't remember ever reading a fic where it was Elrond's decision to send her to Valinor--I really liked that. First, because it just is that much angstier (if that's a word) but second because it really makes more sense that way. She would not be in a place to make the best decisions for herself at that point. Everyone's care of Celebrian again brought tears to my eyes because it was just too realistic--reminded me of a dying relative for whom I had to make decisions and then tell people the decisions that had been made. Believe me when I tell you that you did a great job conveying all the issues involved with those scenes. I thought the scene where Elrond throws his ring away was incredibly well done--his reaction to its loss, Glorfindel's, the environment's. That was a great scene. But I literally bawled out loud when I read the part with Mithrandir. An overwhelming sense of peace settled upon him as he was assured that Celebrían would be cared for. ‘Celebrían is strong in spirit. She will be healed, Elrond,” promised Mithrandir, “not just taken care of.’ Again, that was incredibly real--the moment when you truly, wholly realize that a dying loved one will be better soon...yes, you did that very well and I am still bawling. And can I say again how much I love Glorfindel and Erestor in this and how happy I am the Elrond has such strong friends. Great chapter!

daw the minstrel · 31 July 2005 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

The sections in the "past" were so painful. What a choice for Elrond to have to make for everyone. And they all reacted so much in characters. Arwen showed her true strength here as she pulled herself together. Poor Elladan. He's still having a tough time. Interesting stuff about the rings. The moment in the "past" when Elrond threw his ring away was disturbing, but not so much as that stuff about how the One Ring was struggling to get them all in its grasp.

Karri · 26 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

A heartrending chapter! The intensity of the effort to get home is gut-wrenching. The tension between siblings is nicely done, too. I think often individual methods of dealing with a crisis create just this sort of tension when something catastrophic happens within a family. Really excellent! :-)

Karri · 26 July 2005 · Chapter 4: The Lord of Abomination

Very intense chapter, Nilm. You set us up well with the interaction between Elrond and Celebrian at the start. We get a nice taste of just how much was destroyed when the orcs took her. And then, pow! -- angst, angst, and more angst. It was really wonderful to see the cavalry arrive in the form of Celeborn. He gets lost in the shadow of Galadriel in far too many story.

harrowcat · 24 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

It was so painful reading these two chapters I could hardly get through them. Powerful writing Nilmandra!

Eruanneth_Luin · 23 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

Poor Elladan, overwhelmed with guilt over his failure to protect those in his keeping and then turning with frustrated reproach upon his beloved twin. Not all wounds were physical. So wonderful it was, the aid of the eagle coming in friendship to Elladan. Even amidst the growing despair there was a brief moment of joy for Elladan. But my heart broke for Elrond, not only the loving husband, also the gifted healer giving so much of himself in both roles. Then to have the hostility of Elladan toward Elrohir was an added trial. Praise the stars for the dauntingly formidable Glorfindel, taking matters well in hand with stern rebuke. The temptation of Elrond by the One Ring must have been nearly unendurable; vulnerable because of his Vilya, yet perhaps strengthened also. Ah, hobbits concerned more about the little affairs of daily life and content to leave the world affairs to the minds of those better suited to such far-reaching troubles. It was a test for Aragorn, too, traveling hidden paths and wild lands, yet still able to resist the allure of the dark song of the Ring. Thank you for this powerful chapter.

Eruanneth_Luin · 23 July 2005 · Chapter 4: The Lord of Abomination

Though we so long for elvish health and longevity would we likewise wish to bear for endless centuries the memories of loss and grief endured by the elves of Middle-Earth, remembered each with perfect clarity? Such joyful married bliss shared by Elrond and Celebrían, passionate and exclusive even after the passing of ages. It is good to think on this last fond memory in light of the coming heartbreak. Glorfindel when taking Elrond down by sheer force must have wondered momentarily if the One Ring had been recovered, altering his duty to this ring-bearer from protection to releasing him to the Halls of Mandos to spare him from servitude to Sauron. And for all the ‘follies’ of Erestor and Glorfindel, it was to Erestor he entrusted the guardianship in his absence. Oh my stars, you were so right! This is a dreadfully grim chapter. So much anger, despair and anguish resulting from a simple journey. No wonder the elves dwelt in protected realms. Now I am off to read part two.

Eruanneth_Luin · 23 July 2005 · Chapter 3: Man of Skill

Glorfindel ear-lifting the twins and then Gilraen getting Glorfindel, was too funny. Trust that golden elf to be in the thick of merriment of whatever kind. The now grown Estel encountering the Dúnadain was well done; both the observing and the testing; his ambush plan well thought out, and seeing the lessons learned young put to practical use. Again Elrond shields not this heart from future loss and the resultant pain, this time exposing his son’s to the same fate. The healing hands of the future king are already being established caring for fellow warriors. Such a gloriously, grievous moment with his son’s coming of age.

The Karenator · 23 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

I can't believe how far behind I've gotten in reviewing, but rest assured that if I get a notice that you've posted, I'm here! This has been one bizarre week. I hope things will slow down now. But to the interesting topic: your story! I thought as I was reading this chapter how horrible it would be for any child to see their mother chained, naked and tortured. The fact that the sons of Celebrian survived is remarkable in itself, but that they were able to keep their wits about them to actually make a rescue says much about them. Can you imagine the fear, the horror and the anger? I know the twins struggled with their emotions so that they could save her, but it had to be the most difficult thing they had ever done or would ever do. Elrohir was so single minded in his pursuit to keep her with him, that it was heartbreaking. And she was barely hanging on by a thread. Of course, we found out later that he had been poisoned as well, but still, his struggle was valiant to see her cared for. I think the most heartbreaking moment (last chapter) was when Celeborn saw his daughter. Oh my... His despair was overwhelming. But he did what he had to do in returning to escort Galadriel and Arwen, but it had to be one of the most difficult decisions he had ever made. But I can see why he did it. How could he allow someone else to tell Celebrian's mother what had happened? What a moving and thoughtful scene. While Elrohir was wholly focused on his mother, Elladan was battling his own demons. He was just as concerned about Celebrian, but his hands weren't busy. He wasn't holding his mother. Things had slipped out of his control. And he took it out on the safest target around: his brother. I knew he didn't mean any of the things he said, and Elrohir probably knew it too, but it was still painful to watch. Glorfindel fixed Elladan's little red wagon though. What he said to Elladan was probably more powerful coming from him than it would have been from anyone else. It helped, I think, that Elladan was the one who took his mother home by eagle. He had a moment to feel useful instead of so at loose ends. Elrond seeing Celebrian when she arrived was tough. No matter how prepared you are, I don't think you could ever be prepared for what he saw. But he pulled himself together and took care of her. As worried and distracted as he was by Celebrian's injuries, he was still astute enough to see the shadow that had fallen over his sons. I like 'take charge' Elrond. He didn't let them get away with anything. The saddest part is that we know that for all Elrond's gifts of healing, he would never be able to heal Celebrian's spirit. But I loved how he sat by her and sang and healed her as best as he could. When we switched back to the present and the hobbits arrived, Elrond was once again fighting the same type of shadow-inflicted wounds he had dealt with when Celebrian was hurt. This time he was able to pull Frodo away from the darkness. I'm sure he must have wished a thousand times that he could have done the same for his wife. I was intrigued by how drawn to the ring Elrond was and despite its seductive call he was able to separate the inviting whispers from reality. That shows such strength of character. And wisdom. I liked Aragorn's observation about Glorfindel and his realization that if he had fully known Glorfindel he would have crossed him less as a child. And I liked the part where Elrond simply laid his hand on Aragorn's arm and pushed into rest. The hobbits' appearances were very nicely done. Sam is certainly the one to be at Frodo's side and Elrond saw that quickly. Such a wonderful chapter, Nilmandra. Full of heart wrenching moments and intense emotions. I've thoroughly enjoyed this story. Karen

perelleth · 22 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

Such a busy and anguished week we're having with poor Celebrían and her family! :-/ Haldir was great here, duty and compassion in their just measure. Elladan's pain, anger and confusion struck me as so coherent! It made me think of people trained to take charge in emergencies when they find themselves at the receiving end of the same help they usually provide. They know not how to react, and to the usual shock you must add the confusion of knowing what is going on and what your colleagues are doing but not being able to read clearly... Elladan was experiencing that, apart from the shock, and it made it all doubly painful for him, wondering whether he wasn't fit to be a warrior anymore, or trying to explain his brother's apparent lack of discipline or ressitance... It was very painful. I loved how Haldir took charge of everything, balancing his worries for their safety with his compassion and how he managed Elladan's anger, much as Glorfindel, or Erestor when he timely stepped between the twins... Everything is so well ordered and efficiently ran in Imladris, taht elrond is truly fortunate to have such efficient friends by his side! I found things in this chapter that reminded me of your Mirkwood-Imladris story. (I read it not so long ago, and the thing of the non healing wounds and the fingers causing bruises, as much as Elladan's anger at his brother's apparent "lack of spirit" made me think of it... I seem to remember that story takes place not long before these events, and I was wondering if you're going to mention that here... ;-) Congratulations again Nilmandra, it is fascinating the dedication and detail you've devoted to craft this story, which, in truth, seems rather a double story, as it always happens with HL. And, again, I cannot tell which one I find more fascinating. The bedraggled hobbits arriving at Imladris would deserve a review on its own... :-)

Radbooks · 22 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

Oh, wow, such a painful chapter for all. So like Elrohir not to say anything and so like Elladan to take his anger at himself and pour it out on his brother. Haldir (who I really enjoyed!) and Glorfindel were tough on Elladan, but he still didn't get it - I don't think anybody could have gotten through to him at that point. Though, thankfully, Elrond was able to do so. Poor, poor Elrond, to actually see his wife in that state and then have to actually tend to her wounds himself. It would be incredibly difficult to do. I so love his compassion for others - besides the obvious people in his life - that he also shows it to the hobbits is always touching. I was relieved when Aragorn rode up with Frodo, just to pull him back from his memories. I loved Sam telling Elrond how to watch over Frodo, it sounded just like something Sam would do! :) The temptation of the ring that Elrond felt gave me shivers and how he had to so forcibly reject it's call. And then the conversation he and Aragorn had regarding it was interesting and how Aragorn was so sorely tempted at first, but then it diminished. Just that the ring has that much power to know what particular thing tempts you is just eerie. Anyway, that's a long enough review of another great chapter! Looking forward to more.

runnerbeast · 22 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

Yes, you do so well of not getting too graphic in your scenes but still get the horror of the situation across so we understand behaviors and actions. You have a really good balance of things going on. Now I know why Elladan has always been my favorite twin... well, I love Elrohir too, but Elladan. =) So hard on himself, so full of guilt, so wanting to make everything ok now. You can just hear his inner cry of "why, why did that have to happen like THAT?!". He's so like us, and we don't want him to be. You write him so well. So strong, so complex, so many dimensions. Just great seeing this part through his eyes. Thank you! And Elrohir was having his own difficulties here... This poor family! I loved their relationships together and the ups and downs in this chapter. There was just so much going on here and you made it all easy to understand so I was just glued to every word. It was intense and sad, but wonderful that we were able to glimpse the inside perspectives of Elladan and Elrond and get their view point on what was going on around them. The part with Elrond healing Celebrian and his doubts and worries was just heart wrenching. Then, that was my first glimpse of your Celeborn and wow, I'd been told he was a show stopper and he is! I also loved your Haldir... but because of the intense and tragic nature of this chapter it just wouldn't be proper to go all 'fan girl' on you right now... but I would love to see more of him sometime in the future. ;) A terrific chapter, for sure.

TithenFeredir · 22 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

There is so much good stuff in this chapter, but for some reason the part that really got my attention was Elladan's behavior. One would think that he of all people would be the most empathetic toward Elrohir and yet the oppoeite was true, and that was so perplexing. Then in Elrond's office when he was telling what happened he said one thing: that at first Elrohir was strong but then he became weak. I may be totally off with this, but it struck me there that this was the real problem with Elladan. He needed Elrohir to be strong and couldn't accept that his brother might have a moment of weakness. It was only when he learned that Elrolir had taken a bit of Celebrian's poison that he made that complete change in attitude. For me the most interesting thing will be to see how that relationship is mended. ~TF

elliska · 22 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

Ok, cried all the way through this one. I'm not sure who is worse off between Elladan and Elrohir what with Elladan's open fury at everything and Elrohir's silent suffering. You did an absolutely outstanding job portraying their reactions. All too realistic that Elladan, after what had happened would look at Haldir being placed in charge as a sign of his failure--wrong logic but seemingly logical to the mind under those circumstances and that is where I started crying for these poor people. Likewise his reaction to Athranen's words that they were part of the mission not part of the patrol now but it is really too sad. And Elrohir not saying a word about his own problems so that all strength can be focused on his naneth--geez that is too sad. Seeing their immediate reactions makes their ultimate decision to personally rid M-e of orcs appear seemingly logical. I absolutely love the Eagles and I loved their appearance in this, especially given the reason for the Eagle's willingness to bear Elladan and Celebrian. That was wonderful. I have always loved Elrond's healing as portrayed in these stories and here it is at its best--mastering his horror at what he sees and beginning to treat Celebrian--that scene was so well done. And then going directly to speak with Erestor--you did a great job of showing exactly how heavy a burden lies on Elrond. He has steadfast friends to aid him in Erestor and Glorfindel--Erestor gathering information about what happened to be ready when Elrond asks for it, Erestor taking Elladan off to help manage the impending argument that Elrond does not want to have, Glorfindel pounding reason into Elladan's head again--I love how everyone here works together. But ultimately, the buck stops with Elrond, so to speak. This chapter, combining Elrond's management of Celebrian's wound and his management of the arrival of Frodo (the End Game in the battle with Sauron) really brings home what a central figure Elrond was at all levels--for his family, for his own realm and for all of M-e. That was incredibly powerful. Strangely, I think I cried the hardest in this when I got to One of the hobbits opened his mouth to protest--good old Sam. Everything with Bilbo and Sam was so perfectly in character, it was just wonderful. I loved Elrond finding the Ring and rejecting it--that was very powerful again. And I loved the interaction between Elrond and Aragorn--Elrond is still putting him to sleep; Aragorn's comment about Glorfindel; Elrond's assurance to Aragorn about the Ring. God, I am exhausted after reading this, no joke. This is so well done! Great chapter.

Jay of Lasgalen · 22 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

*Sigh.* This is another bleak, depressing chapter. There is so much despair everywhere. Elladan and Elrohir both blame themselves - Elladan because he was in charge of the mission, Elrohir because he was scout and feels he should have found the orcs. Elladan blames his brother for concealing his wounds and making them worse - but I suspect Elrohir did not even realise he was injured at first. Then Elladan feels everyone around him blames him for his 'failure', and that he's been removed from command. *Sigh.* Bleak and depressing. And Elrond - how horrifying to see his wife in this state, to know that it's up to him to save her. And as we know, he saves her life, but not her hope :( Despite all the doom and gloom, this was a great chapter! Jay

Dreamflower · 22 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

Oh this is very nearly as intense as the first part. I am so glad to see the hobbits safely in Rivendell, and Elrond ready to care for Frodo.

Bodkin · 22 July 2005 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

This is just so painful to read that I can't imagine how distressing it must have been to write. Poor Elladan. (Why I'm focusing on him first I don't know.) So much guilt and pain and anger. Wanting to blame others - for something. Wanting to take all the blame on himself. And shutting others out. Donning that shell that prevents him from receiving comfort and preserves his anger. As wounded as any of them and refusing to see it. Elladan is seeing everyone's reaction as blame rather than support, too. (I can see why Glorfindel is getting a little irritated by Elladan. Elladan is doing pretty well to stand up to him. Would do better to listen, of course, but you can't have everything.) And Elrohir. Denying his own needs for fear of delaying help getting to Celebrian - and then losing the comfort of his brother's support. And guilt again. Neither of them are going to get over that for a good while. It makes their withdrawal - off orc-slaying - take on another perspective (to me) as well. Sort of 'how can Elrond bear to see us when it's all our fault'. All 'we are unworthy'. (I'm going to be missing stuff, but I'm stream of consciousness-ing on this rather than going back to reread as I go.) Elrond. Poor Elrond. The vision of what had happened to his beloved must have been even worse than dealing with the outcome - because there was nothing he could do. I suppose actually treating her - and Elrohir - gives him some hope at the moment. Better than the desperation of waiting, better than the despair of seeing himself fail. But still. The eagle is great though. And seeing Elladan and Celebrian swirl in eagle-back. If they hadn't had too much else on their minds that would have been a real wow. And Glorfindel. And Erestor. And Haldir. All doing their best to support a family imploding. It makes the Frodo section seem a relief really. Despite the One Ring and the Morgul Blade. I love Sam inserting himself between Elrond and Frodo. And telling the great half-elven healer to make sure that Frodo eats and sleeps. (He'd never have thought of that!) And the stunned hobbits admiring Arwen are rather fun. And it is lovely to see Elrond and Aragorn together - reinforcing their adar/son bond - and see the respect that Elrond has for the man Estel has become. I love Aragorn's observations about Glorfindel - and how he would have avoided crossing him had he seen him in his full glory. I wonder about Elrond's full glory. He might not have been rehoused and returned - but, I would think his 'kind as summer' persona probably conceals a pretty formidable full glory. This is just so good, Nilmandra. I shall have to go and read it again a couple of times, despite the tragedy and torment, because there is so much to pick up and admire. (And I do know it will turn out all right in the end. More or less.)