History Lessons: The Third Age by Nilmandra
perelleth · 17 July 2005 · Chapter 3: Man of Skill
Glad I found this today... printed it out and hope to read it at the airport...shall review next week,but thanks! it came so in time :-)
Author's reply
Good! I hope you have a safe flight and good trip.
Bodkin · 17 July 2005 · Chapter 3: Man of Skill
Elrond would spend many a night sitting alone under the stars, waiting for them to return. Poor Elrond. The quiet heroism that doesn't make the subject of lays. You can sing of defeating Balrogs and questing to Mount Doom, but being prepared to let other people grow and do what they must while you hold everything together just doesn't seem dramatic until you think about the cost. And Arwen - what a toughie to look forward to that is - either way. He will find Estel's loss nearly as bad, too - comparable to Elros's, maybe - even though he has always known of his foster son's mortality. I loved Gilraen, the naneth close on to 3000 years younger than her son's foster brothers getting towards finger-wagging at the twins and Glorfindel - they've done a good job on building her a place here among the elves (and they're right - if Celebrian had been there, Gilraen would have been much happier. So perhaps would most others!) Estel makes an enchanting practically-adult elf-raised man. He is charming and courteous and skilled and intelligent - without ever being cocky or arrogant. I'm not surprised he won over the Dunedain - and there must have been some looking at him doubtfully. (I love Halbarad - giving Estel the opportunity to show his talents - and being cryptic. And Dirhael. I'll bet he found it hard to keep quiet.) I even enjoyed reading about the fight. I normally skim read fights to pick out the key bits, but this was clear enough to read and visualise the whole action (very well done!). He embraced him, holding him close for a moment, for he knew it was the last time he would hold Estel. You know how to tear at heartstrings, don't you. Reminds me of the day before the Firstborn arrived - thinking that nothing would ever be the same. And when Aragorn hesitates over saying Adar. Wrenching. Mithrandir is pretty sharp - knows when not to know things. A very sophisticated understanding of learning, that. And the image of what will happen when (if) the rings lose their power is worrying. But you do promise healing (Glorfindel had smiled sadly and said that Elrond would not receive that until he reached elvenhome) even if it is combined with sorrow. And Elrond is girding himself up to defend his valley in a way that doesn't require swords and arrows. The cost, though - well. At least the long defeat ends in a victory of sorts. Eventually. I just love the characterisation here. They are all so . . . themselves. If that makes sense. Can't wait for more. (And I know you won't make me wait as long as JKRowling, too!)
Author's reply
They are all so . . . themselves. That is probably the greatest compliment you can give a fanfiction writer. :>) Elrond's heroism is the type that is not sung about or remembered in lay, or perhaps even recognized by the vast majority of people. How tempting it would be to take in Isildur's heir but hold him at a distance, for you know he is mortal, so why get attached? And for Elrond to love him as his own son, knowing that one day he will need to be Arathorn's son again - well, it nearly broke my heart. The end result is hopefully what made Aragorn who he was - he was Arathorn's and Elrond's son, raised to be given back to his people as a confident and strong leader. Even more humbling to me is to think he let Gilraen be the child's mother in more than name only. She answered hard questions too, and they consulted each other and each had responsibilities to Estel....yet they don't share a bond as most parents do, so they have to work a little harder to communicate. Gilraen was so young that it is likely Elrond who took the extra steps to mold and shape her as a parent, since she is deprived of her own parents and community who would have normally helped her to raise him. So melancholy...and the next chapters are done and angsty and quite long, so I just need to figure out where to break them to make them reasonably sized to read on line. This chapter probably pushed it. Thank you for reading :)
Dreamflower · 16 July 2005 · Chapter 3: Man of Skill
This is amazing. I do so love the tender affection you portray within Elrond's household, and the love and pride that Elladan and Elrohir take in their foster brother. And Glorfindel seems almost like an uncle to them. The logistics of the ambush were done very well. I could follow what was going on in the battle, which I often find is difficult with some writers' battle scenes. Yours were very clear, and Estel's plan was very clever. I also enjoyed the way he exercised his healing as well. I am looking forward to the arrival of the hobbits there. I want to see what Elrond and his household make of our four lads. And I hope you let us witness the reunion with Bilbo.
Author's reply
I hate writing battle scenes, I admit! I prefer that bird's eye view with occasional personal glimpses, as I think the reader can see the action overall and feel it personally at times. If it made sense, then I am well pleased. And yes - we have hobbits coming! And Elrond has experience, unfortunately, with poisoned and deadly wounds.
elliska · 16 July 2005 · Chapter 3: Man of Skill
Oh that made me cry. There is so much to say about this chapter. I liked how Elrond knew through Vilya that Gandalf approached. I really like the wizards as characters--little details like 'his hat askew' just make me smile because they seem so perfect. I loved the conversation they had about how long Saruman had been betraying them. The scene with Gilraen, Glorfindel and 'pinning' the twin's ears back was great. Giggled through that, but again I really like the detail of Gilraen embroidering meaningful things on Estel's clothes and such things. And I really liked the “It is good to have a naneth in the house again.’ Elladan had laughed. ‘And since we never could pull anything over on our own naneth, we might as well try Estel’s!’ sequence. That was great, funny but also sad as they thought about Celebrian. And the whole 'Ranger test' had me on edge throughout. I felt for everyone involved--imagine how the Rangers felt, meeting their chieftain for the first time since he was a baby. And Glorfindel and the twins--they would be nervous as parents for Estel to do well and so sad to be losing him. And there is no way Estel did not know something was up. That whole thing was done so well. I absolutely loved that Halbarad took him off scouting and then let him tell what they found and make suggestions on how to handle it. And the strategy in this was great! I really like reading battles like that. The battle itself was tense, even though I assumed it would come out alright, else Elrond would not have chosen then to reveal Estel's heritage. But when I got to the part when Elrond talked to Estel--that was exactly how I picture that encounter myself and something about it just made me cry. That was really well done--very emotional in a subtle way. This was an absolutely great chapter!
Author's reply
I admit I struggled over this chapter, so I am glad you liked it. It would be easier to 'tell' great deeds than to 'show' them, and although I liked the idea of the test, for the Rangers could see Estel freely, unencumbered, and really not trying to impress them...and Estel got to see his people without any burden yet on his shoulders. In that sense, I thought it could work. But at the same time, I knew they would surely recognize him! Their reactions were fun to write. I was very melancholy writing the scenes of Elrond telling Estel...how he and Gilraen have traded places - he is giving up Estel and she is regaining Aragorn. Ack! How sad, and yet Elrond knew the pain that would occur and yet freely loved Estel as his own son anyway. Thank you for the kind words!
meckinock · 16 July 2005 · Chapter 3: Man of Skill
I think the thing that choked me up the most about this chapter was Elrond's acknowledgement of how much it would mean to Gilraen that Aragorn be told the truth about himself and his father. I can imagine that when he sought her out, for her it must have been like getting her son back. How many stories she must have had to tell him. Another really powerful image was that of Elrond, alone in his office, laying out the heirlooms of the house of Elendil on his desk and considering what he was about to do. It was also amusing to hear that he'd had to lock them up after Estel decided to use his cabinet for a hiding place! I felt bad for Estel, being on Ranger try-outs and being the only one in the zip code who didn't know it. But at least he did both his fathers proud, as well as E2. It's good that Halbarad got to see what he's made of; it will ease his re-introduction to Ranger society. Elrond handled the disclosure very sensitively, and Aragorn was extremely believable. I'm looking forward to reading more of both the "current" story (especially the arrival of Aragorn and the hobbits at Rivendell!) and the flashback ('cause we all know what happens next...)
Author's reply
I felt bad for Estel too, and I admit I sat on this chapter for a while, trying to decide if it was a reasonable thing to do, bringing Estel among his people like that. It was fun writing the Rangers a bit off guard, though. But, they saw him freely this way, not really trying to impress them anymore than any other kid , as he doesn't know he is their chieftain. I really was struck by the slight role reversal between Gilraen and Elrond...he is now giving up his son and she is regaining hers. The next chapters are angsty in both stories. :/
daw the minstrel · 16 July 2005 · Chapter 3: Man of Skill
I love your portrayals of both Estel and Elrond. Estel is young and eager, but strong and responsible. The elves of Imladris taught him well and gave him chances to learn confidence and strength. And Elrond is a loving father who surrenders the son he raised because he knows it's the right thing to do.
Author's reply
Poor Elrond- he will surrender his daughter because its also the right thing to do. How much pain and loss can one person take? Much is asked of one to whom much has been given, but it cannot reduce the pain much.
shirebound · 16 July 2005 · Chapter 3: Man of Skill
What a skillful description of Estel's growth into manhood, and how he has grown to reverence both Elves and men. And this scene is especially poignant and fascinating: Glorfindel held firm to his hand, speaking to him, but Elladan could see the struggle the ranger was having as he looked upon his chieftain, now grown. Eighteen years had passed since he had placed the two year old in Elrohir’s arms. I wonder if the Northern rangers had ever thought to see their 'chieftain' again!
Author's reply
I sort of thought 'how like the elves' to just surprise the Rangers by one day just showing up with their now grown chieftain in tow. But I admit it was fun to think of what their reactions would be to seeing them...and how off guard they might be caught!
Eruanneth_Luin · 16 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
How difficult for Elrond to know the identity of the pivotal Heir, but not know the outcome nor yet his ultimate personal cost. You have an interesting perspective in showing the difference in stature between Elrond and Glorfindel by the accommodating furniture. Dwarves! Be they a gaggle swarm or bearded flock life must have been enlivened during their stay. Not many things daunt the courageous Balrog slayer enough for him to flee to the company of the younglings; facing the Nazgûl being merely challenging in contrast. It was enjoyable watching Elrond encounter his first Hobbit and noticing the peculiarities of this hitherto unmet people and Estel netting Elrond had me laughing delightedly. The unrestrained joy of children felt by the elves is seldom explored so thoughtfully. Glorfindel aglow with eagerness to meet and best the Nazgûl shows us the two extremes of this powerful elf-lord; one side innocently playful, the other exceedingly dangerous. Thank you, Nilmandra, for another wonderful chapter.
Author's reply
Glorfindel towers over everyone else, or so he tells me! LOL at Glorfindel fleeing the dwarves. I think he finds Elrond's sons more entertaining than Thorin Oakenshield blowing off hot air :>) You know I love both Elrond and Glorfindel, and to me, one of the most admirable qualities of a powerful male is seeing them mentor a young one and play with the children. I am glad you noticed and liked the contrasts in them.
Karri · 12 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
LOL! A wonderful chapter, Nilm! I just adore the twins here -- they behave so delightfully like The Hobbit elves of the Valley that I can almost here them singing Tra-la-la-lally and teasing Thorin about dipping his beard in the river. :-D
Author's reply
*grin* I almost had them sing, but I thought it pushed the scenes right over the top! I really enjoyed writing them merry, though. Thanks :>)
Redheredh · 11 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
I was really worried you would get another update out before I got around to reviewing this one! Elrond's real courage is sometimes overlooked because he can seem rather powerful, but you brought his bravery out in this chapter. It contrasted nicely with Glorfindel's more familiar variety. I like that Celebrian calmed down Elladan's tantrum so soundly and how the bow gained another story in its history. Who's son will get it next? Your emphasis on the secrecy about Estel reminds me that the three rings had to be kept just as secret. Elrond probably would follow the same course in keeping the boy as safe. "It's in his blood." From the Dunedain? Who received 'it' from those elvish ancestors that long flourished in the wilderness? A royal visage that perhaps came from Elros? I can't help but think of Imrahil and Legolas' remarks. 'It' lingers in the blood. It is wonderful how you are bringing all these incidents together into a coherent whole so well. A joy to read. Very much looking forward to the next chapter.
Author's reply
Elrond did carry his mantle of responsibilities and power well, didn't he? I really like how understated Tolkien portrayed him, though I suppose the hobbit POV might be mostly responsible for that. People who bear their power with humility are courageous people, I think. 'It' is an interesting concept, isn't it? In several places Tolkien reminds us that Aragorn is one of the children of Luthien, so I think perhaps it is the blood of the Maiar and Eldar, the nobility and dignity of Numenor and the strength of his direct ancestors who lived the hard life for so long. I love that comment about Imrahil too - 'it' persists for a long time. Thank you for reading!
Eruanneth_Luin · 11 July 2005 · Chapter 1: The Most Hardy of Living Men
The long wait is over at last! Much as I have anticipated ‘Third Age’ it is even better than I hoped. Arwen serenely peaceful, not probing or (outwardly) worried is the calm anchoring presence in whom Aragorn entrusts his heart. Many of us could learn from this wise feminine example. Elrond giving freely of himself and his realm to preserve the line of the Heirs of Isildur through the long years though fraught with repeated tragic loss as each fosterling in turn perishes; after all his past sorrows he yet rejoices in each young Dunadan male in his care. Is it any wonder that he is so highly regarded by Tolkien? I so love to see the loving family relations, which are a priceless gift considering the length of their lives. The chance to learn Elvish history at the very feet the Master of Imladris would be the pinnacle of wish fulfillment. (Big sigh) Glorfindel’s golden hair would indeed by a prize worth capturing even for a brief moment. Aragorn has excellent taste! Elrohir softening the leave-taking with interesting diversions shows not only his loving nature, but his aptitude with the young. Someday he will be a wonderful adar. (A non-subtle hint.) Elrond’s arms seem made for children, especially those of mortal blood who have graced his life in Imladris from the first. His ‘oops, I forgot little ones needs other kinds of protection as well’ had me laughing delightedly. Scholarly oversight = lapse of practical sense; two diverse definitions for a common situation was equally amusing. Thank you for a perfectly enchanting first chapter. My only regret was that it ended too soon.
Author's reply
I am glad you liked the opening. Glorfindel as a pretty toy was just too good to pass up, but a toddler can get away with things the rest of us could not! I do like writing Elrond with children - its another opportunity to see a more vulnerable side to him, the time taken with a child's cares next to his many responsibilities and his great power and wisdom a nice contrast, yet also a parallel as to what is important. Thanks for reading!
runnerbeast · 11 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
Another wonderful chapter... filled with many tidbits I will love to ponder and dream on. I love how many details you are filling your story with. Oh, and how I love how you write your Elrond, thank you thank you! =)
Author's reply
I am glad you like my Elrond! I fell in love with him when I began to realize what a tremendous character he was - he is in all of Tolkien's stories, yet understated in his power and wisdom. Thank you for reviewing.
meckinock · 10 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
I really liked Glorfindel rescuing his favorite chair from the Goodwill bin. Shame on Elrond. Interesting to think about the fact that Elrond is the barometer for everyone at Rivendell - they're waiting to see if he jumps ship or not. As long as he stays, they haven't lost all hope. That's a big responsibility. Galadriel knows many things that are not told to her, indeed! Elrond must know he's not keeping any secrets from her. Thorny problem of what to do with Estel when Bilbo & Co. show up, though. Sending him camping with his brand new, slightly used bow is a good solution. It was interesting to see the Elves' curiosity about how Men keep their growing children in clothing. I guess they're not used to young'uns sprouting like weeds. It was nice to see Elrond get out of the house and have an impromptu horse race with Glorfindel. He definitely needs a little more fun in his life.
Author's reply
I did a lot of thinking about Elrond's power in this story - how the ultimate fate of the One Ring and middle-earth was really his doing - the white council wasn't around and even Mithrandir deferred to thim. He did have a lot of responsiblity, which will make the ending all the more poignant, I think. And yeah - a little fun in his life is a good thing. He seems to get lost in memory often.
meckinock · 10 July 2005 · Chapter 1: The Most Hardy of Living Men
I wish Elrond would come over and give me a neck rub. Naturally I loved the first scene to pieces. I'm glad Aragorn got a good night's (and day's, and night's) sleep after hunting Gollum for so long, and I'm glad Elrond was watching over him so tenderly. Aragorn's arrival at Rivendell was really touching; it was so sweet how the entire household just enfolded him and Gilraen into their embrace. Elrond was so warm and sweet; it was amusing that he surprised even his sons by taking Aragorn into his heart immediately - and capturing the little boy's heart as well. Even if he didn't remember that two-year-olds are somewhat unreliably potty-trained. I was just wondering if he would ever ask about his father when I got to the part where Elrond says this: My decision was conscious and intentional, but still very difficult. I was blotting out his past, causing his memory of his father and family to fall away instead of teaching him to cherish those whom we had also loved. We gave him so much love and attention that he fell into his new life easily. Each moment that went by, when he did not ask about his papa or his grandpapa or grandmama, was like a dagger in Gilraen’s heart. My heart ached for the pain that caused her. Ow. What a brutal but necessary act; erasing Aragorn's memory of his father and his Dunedain family, even his own name. And I can imagine how awful that must have been for Gilraen. And of course, Elrond awakening Aragorn from his prolonged nap was sweet as well. It makes me smile to imagine this battle-toughened, grizzled warrior yawning and stretching with sleep. Elrond is certainly going to waste no time putting some meat on his bones, that's for certain. I'm so glad to see this up!
Author's reply
I am not entirely sure I can write believable rangers, but I did like writing this particular ranger from the elves' perspective. Eru help me, I'm now trying to write of 'great deeds' and Estel among rangers. I may need help.
The Karenator · 9 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
I love how you've woven in the story of Smaug and the dwarves and Bilbo into this tale. It all makes so much sense in relation to Imladris. Really enjoyed that. Glorfindel was fun, as always. The little touches of personality that you've given him are wonderful. I loved the part about his favorite chair and the part where he couldn't decide if he wanted to entertain dwarves or go camping with the children...which included two very grownup twins that I'm sure are still children to him. But it still made me smile. I also really liked your take on the secrecy of Estel being in Imladris. Elrond was wise to not reveal the child's existence to the White Council, even if he didn't know exactly why at that point he was wary. I also like what he said about Galadriel. You never know what she's aware of. Wonderful chapter. Can't wait for more. Karen
Author's reply
Thanks, Karen. I rewrote who saw/met Estel three times and finally figured no one could for it to make sense. This was fun to write though, since The Hobbit 'canon' involved very merry elves insulting dwarves :>)
elliska · 9 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
There is so much in this / so many details that make it rich: He twisted Vilya upon his finger and sent his thought out over the valley, both actions unconscious. I love this line. It is very simple but it says so much about Elrond. And his thoughts about Estel and Arwen were perfect. I happen to have reread the First Age History Lessons this weekend and those thoughts seemed particularly poignant after having just read Elrond's reactions to Elros's decision. I love the idea of Glorfindel knowing Mithrandir from Valinor and I loved that story about his comfy chair. :-) Estel in his already too small clothes, with his not entirely proper manners, running through the house was great too! I always thought, as painful as it must have been at times, Elrond must have enjoyed fostering his brother's heirs and been fascinated by these children that grew even faster than he had and certainly much faster than the elves he was accustomed to. And Estel with Elrohir's bow--and that little story you hint at--that is wonderful. I definitely like that no one--not even Galadriel knew about Estel. That makes sense. If you want to keep a secret, you can't tell it to everyone. And it makes a good excuse for having meetings of the White Council other places rather than Imladris. I love Bilbo and his gaggle of dwarves. Bilbo's reaction to Elrond was exactly as I'd imagine. And those twins and Estel! It is a good thing that Estel had someone his own (mental) age to play with in Imladris. *Grin* This whole part, from the twins and Estel's antics to Elrond's 'coughing' and polite interruption of Thorin to Glorfindel's comments to the song was hilarious. Seeing Elrond in their camp, being attacked by children was a lot of fun too. I really love seeing these loving families. And the last part with Glorfindel--I really like your portrayal of him. It is the best I've read and this was a perfect example. Great chapter!
Author's reply
I think its fortunate that Elrond has had nearly two ages to comes to terms with Elros's choice - hopefully it gave him a little more persepective with Arwen, though it cannot have diminished the pain he felt much- just his reaction to that pain. Poor Elrond! I have noticed in trying to write from Elrond's perspective that even the flashbacks have flashbacks - he has lived for so long that there must be memory in everything. I think Elladan would like everyone to forget that particular memory with the bow, but I don't think Elrohir brings it up, at least :) Writing at the time of The Hobbit was fun, and writing Elrond with children is always fun. In my head they adore him - his touch alone must impart complete trust and confidence in them, and that allows them to be innocently free with him. I loved that he would play with Estel like that...and have times where he could run and be free, unweighted by the cares of the world. Thanks for the review!
Bodkin · 9 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
Lovely. Lovely, lovely, lovely. Estel being swooped off out of the way to protect his anonymity. (Though Mithrandir is a cunning old fox and I wouldn't be the least bit surprised to find out that he had a pretty good idea of what was going on.) The performance delivered for Glorfindel and Elrond's benefit was delightful. On several levels. I love picturing the two of them determinedly appearing totally unconscious of what was happening as well as imagining E3 horsing around. Glorfindel and 'his' chair, that Elrond was commanded to keep in its usual spot. The E3 camping trip - with Estel taking to the life like a duck to water. (Bet he badgers for lots more trips - whereas in later years he would badger for a couple of nights in a comfortable bed with access to indoor plumbing and clean clothes.) Curunir - pah!! I'm not surprised he liberated most of the available information into his own care. I suppose his seductive voice was able to convince even the wise. And he was pretty confident in his own talents. I love Elrond's keen sight - and his maturity when it comes to dealing with Arwen. Even though he knows that he will lose her to mortality, he can still see that the alternative is much worse. And I'm so pleased that in loving Arwen, he does not reject Aragorn. (I really didn't like all that Arwen draped over sofas being emotionally blackmailed into sailing stuff in the movies.) 'She was not his; she belonged to herself, and her fate was her own to choose.' So true - and Elrond is a wise enough parent to recognise it. And powerful Glorfindel letting slip the shield he keeps over his own power - wow. Impressive. The bow - I'll bet Estel will be taking it to bed with him! And he loves it all the more because it was Elrohir's. (The E2 conflict - interesting. I wonder how Celebrian exerted naneth power to make Elladan contrite.) And that dwarven walking song has taken on a life of its own! I'm glad Gilraen has settled and found a role for herself - and that she can spend some time with her kin. She must feel very isolated. Playful Elrond - racing, allowing himself to be caught in the net - is lovely. He deserves some playtime: his responsibilities demand that he is far too sober for an elf. Being around children is very good for him. Lovely chapter.
Author's reply
(Though Mithrandir is a cunning old fox and I wouldn't be the least bit surprised to find out that he had a pretty good idea of what was going on.) LOL, well next chapter Mithrandir does admit that in some matters he knew not to delve too deeply! I have to say this was fun to write, and I reread parts of the Hobbit before doing it, figuring I could take some liberties with merry elves as its canon there! And like you, I believe Arwen to be a strong and confidant woman...I like in AppA where Aragorn says her hope will be his hope - she was clearly a source of strength to him, and probably to her family as well. Some of the chapters that follow lead into darker times, which were much less fun to write.
Elenluin · 9 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
Another lovely chapter :-) I'm glad for the fast updating, that way I won't have to wait too long for the next installment :) I really love your description of the twins, the way you do describe them as two different persons... Hope to read more soon!
Author's reply
Thank you, Elenluin. I grew up with friends who were identical twins, and the only time I couldn't tell them apart is if they didn't move or speak - they were very different too. It is fun to write the twins, I admit, and to see their characters shine through. I have a number of chapters done, so I should update regularly. Thanks for the review!
Jay of Lasgalen · 8 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
I'm slowly catching up on my reading and reviewing - so many stories, after less than two weeks away! I liked your explanation of why Bilbo and the dwarves never met Estel - I thought Elrond must have kept him locked in his room to prevent their meeting in The Hobbit! I expect he loved that unexpected excursion with his brothers. I'm trying to remember if you've told that tale about Elladan's jealousy before - even though I always imagine the twins as very close, there must have been several times when they both wished they were only children. Stories about their arguments and fights are rare. Finally, I loved the image of the twins and Estel dressing up - and Elrond and Glorfindel trying so hard not to laugh. The final straw was Elrohir blowing them a kiss - I think I'd have lost it then. Thank you for a little light relief in dark times. Jay
Author's reply
Glad your family was all safe, Jay. Scary times, and probably not the last of them either. I have referred to the bow incident a few times, in 'Hunting' for sure, and maybe one other story. Its on Elladan's list of things he'd like to forget, and wishes everyone else would too! This story has plenty of twin conflict, and they do not much resemble the 'fair and gallant' twins of Tolkien's quote at times, but their family had some hard times. Writing this fun time made those dark times so much more tolerable.
Dot · 8 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
Woo! Quick update!! You’re amazing, Nilmandra. Both those quotes seemed only vaguely familiar to me but seeing them like that is quite startling. It certainly has the effect of giving weight to the events of ‘The Hobbit’ and reminding us of their importance in the scheme of things. I’d never really thought about how different things might have been. That’s interesting that there’s no full written record of the truth about the rings of power. Makes sense when you think about it. I love the way Elrond unconsciously uses Vilya, sending his thoughts out over the valley. I wonder how long it took him to be that comfortable with the ring. “…hope for Middle-earth from his own great sorrow.” Hmm. That really sums it up, doesn’t it? No answer will mean true happiness for Elrond. It says so much about his strength that he can accept that. I love the part about Glorfindel and the chair! That’s so typical of your Glorfindel. I always love how free he feels to order Elrond around, at least in the little things. I must also tell you that I really like the connection between Glorfindel and Mithrandir. Ten year old Estel is wonderful! His excitement about the bow is so endearing. That child seems to be a bundle of energy. And I thought the little tale about the twins’ argument was really touching. I actually don’t think I really want to know the full story because Elrohir was obviously really hurt. It certainly sounds like Celebrían knew just the thing to say to Elladan! Ouch. Oh, how I laughed throughout the part with the dwarves’ visit! Swarm? Gaggle? Flock? LOL! “What are you contemplating, old friend?” asked Elrond. “Whether I wish to entertain dwarves or camp with the children,” mused Glorfindel. “I trust you do not need me?” I love that! You’ve captured Bilbo perfectly. It’s so interesting to see him through elvish eyes. And Gandalf made me smile with his obvious fondness for the hobbit. I nearly choked on my tea when Elrond and Glorfindel spotted what the “children” were up to! That was priceless, especially the thought of Elrohir "standing as if delivering an oratory, his fake beard shaking with each silent word spoken." See, I’m grinning away as I think about it again! And the dwarven walking song! ROTFL!! What a hilarious image. I think what I also love about this is the way you make them so light-hearted and willing to tease – exactly like the elves of ‘The Hobbit’. I’m glad to see that Gilraen has settled in and has made some friends, and I’m happy for her that she’ll get to meet with some of her kinsmen, even though it would probably be hard to see them leave again. Alagos the Tenth?? I guess they must run out of names… I enjoyed the scene with Estel catching Elrond in the net. It’s good to see Elrond enjoy himself and be so willing to participate. Estel does seem to be growing up. I notice he veers between calling Elrond ‘Adar’ and ‘Ada’. It sounds like he’s showing a lot of responsibility when it comes to camp chores. I thought it was a wonderfully understated but nonetheless powerful moment when Elladan tells Elrond that “It’s in his blood.” It’s also a good reminder of all that will be demanded of this loving child and the greatness that his future holds. "Elrond could feel an almost static energy about Glorfindel, and when the elf-lord looked down on him he saw fire flash in his eyes and the inner light that always shone dimly flashed suddenly bright […]“I do not fear them. They will flee before me.” Oh, wow. What a great moment. It’s fascinating to see this side of Glorfindel. This is another incredible chapter. Amusing and thought-provoking. I’m hooked already! I hope you’ve settled back into work and aren’t becoming too exhausted. Look after yourself :-)
Author's reply
I had 'passel' of dwarves, but daw made me take it out :>) Swarm, flock and gaggle were fun though .... hornets, sheep, geese? Bad elves! I was hoping to make them in line with the elves of The Hobbit, so I am glad they came across that way. I think I actually have most of 10-12 chapters written :/, so the updates will be pretty regular. I had a hard time wrapping my brain around this story, which might have been becasue my brain wasn't working too well there for a while. I did return to work, made it for two days, crashed yesterday and had already planned today off. I think I'll be easing back in slowly. Thank you for your concern. :D
Radbooks · 8 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
Excellent chapter and I was thrilled to have such a quick update. I've been reading some fanfics lately that show Aragorn and Bilbo meeting at that time, but as I read your note, it makes more sense that they would not have. If you want to keep him truly safe and hidden, you would limit his exposure to outsiders. I so loved Elrond's thoughts about Arwen and her being her own person and not 'his', it was very well written and described and so fit with what I have also thought about how he would have felt about her. Incredible sorrow over his potential loss, yet understanding as well. As always I truly enjoy the way you write Glorfindel, his power and presence and his love for Elrond and his family. Thanks again!
Author's reply
I am glad you thought that made sense. I originally started to write it with Biblo and Mithrandir meeting Estel, then just Mithrandir, but after thinking it through I sent him camping! One of the key reasons was that Saruman did not seem to know. For Elrond to tell only Mithrandir or only Galadriel would imply he had reasons not to tell the others. Since they didn't seem to mistrust Saruman's involvement (just his leadership) I think Elrond had to keep Isildur's heir pretty close to the vest. I am looking forward to writing more of Arwen and Elrond. Glad you like Glorfindel too - he will be around a lot in future chapters.
TithenFeredir · 8 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
Another enjoyable chapter. I loved the imagery of Gandalf shepherding his flock on their mission, and the elves' way of referring to the dwarves with unflattering terms like "gaggle". For some reason Glorfindel patting Elrond on the back as he stifled his laughter over his sons' antics struck me as a hilarious touch. The humor never goes over the top, though. Thanks for a fun read! ~TF
Author's reply
Bad elves! Well, bad but fun. :>) But hey, its canon! Fun to write, and I am glad it was fun to read too. Some other events in the lives of the Imladrian elves were not so pleasant, and we do have some dark and unhappy things coming up. We, like Elrond, need these pleasant memories.
phoenix23531 · 8 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
She's Back! Woohooo! I am so glad you have started posting this story. I have been eagerly awaiting it, and so far it is just as wonderful as the last two. As always, your characters are so vibrant and realistic, your dialogue shows not only in-depth research but a keen and thorough consideration of Tolkien's body of work, and all this with a wonderful, tongue-in-cheek sense of humour! I definitely agree with your choice of quotes, and your reasoning for the secrecy around Estel's identity. It always seemed to me that the greatest of care was given to protecting Aragorn, despite tremendous risk both to Imladris and its residents. I simply adored the scene at the feast, with the three sons of Elrond playing and mimicing. It was a wonderful picture, and I could so well imagine poor Glorfindel twitching with the effort of restrained laughter. I was suffering much the same, reading this chapter at work and trying not to burst out laughing! As always, congratulations and thank you for posting such a wonderful story. E.
Author's reply
I am as puffed up as a peacock right now! Thank you for your kind words. Hopefully we did not get you in trouble at work. I have to admit that I loved being able to write at the time of the Hobbit, where the elves were merry and a bit irreverent.
TithenFeredir · 8 July 2005 · Chapter 1: The Most Hardy of Living Men
I so enjoyed this chapter. I'm normally not much into stories of Tolkien's characters as children. This tale plays very well as historical, but it has such a wonderfully intimate feel to it. You write Elrond's house as such a tranquil place whose residents obviously care for each other and have a long history together. Their harmony is palpable and is a take on elvish character that never occurred to me, yet it makes perfect sense and seems very right. I also loved the gentle, protective attitude the elves had toward the edain. Again, it seems very appropriate given how weak and short-lived the "sickly ones" would seem to them. The distictly different way in which each elf related to Aragorn and Gilraen was a very insightful touch. I could go on and on. Wonderful writing! ~TF
Author's reply
I am glad you liked the feel of the story. Its tempting to want to write some action or conflict into the story, but it just didn't fit with how Tolkien portrayed Elrond's house. I am glad that they came across well. I certainly would like to live there (or visit, at least!).
daw the minstrel · 8 July 2005 · Chapter 2: The Grey Pilgrim
I enjoyed the opportunity to see Estel growing toward adulthood. He's clearly showing the promise of what he will become. Of course, he had the help of a loving group of wise elves to get there. It's also fun to see this canonical event from a different POV. The twins and Estel sure don't have much reverence for Thorin! I suppose dwarves do seem pompous in their ways compared to elves. At least compared to these elves.
Author's reply
LOL at poor Thorin. I really enjoyed rereading the part of the Hobbit where we learned that the elves teased the dwarves and hobbit...the dwarves think the elves foolish in return, so someone should write this from their POV too! I think Elrond had it right last chapter, that for Estel to accept his heritage and grow into it, he must be extraordinarily secure and raised to prepare for it. And who better than, as you say, a loving group of wise elves who have a fondness for the descendents of Elros to get him there?