Reviews (376)

French Pony · 1 July 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

It looks like one could easily count Elrond among the casualties of this War. The power of its end knocks him flat on his back for a few days, and he never really recovers from what he lost. Throughout the rest of the chapter, he moves like one of the walking wounded, learning to live his life again, semi-crippled. By this time next year, he'll really be looking forward to Valinor. But Elrond is still Elrond, and he accepts all of this most gracefully.

French Pony · 1 July 2006 · Chapter 11: Vilya

Hmmm. Veddy strange. I have the oddest feeling that I've read this chapter before -- I clearly remember the story of Elrohir and the wardrobe, and the line "Suilad, sweetheart," but I don't think I've read the chapter before, and I certainly don't see a previous review that I might have left for it. Something is strange here. Anyway, I enjoyed this, especially the story of Elrohir and the wardrobe. Clearly, Elrond seems to have thought that his days of childproofing Imladris were over when the twins stopped being babies, but no. They just get into more sophisticated trouble. Little kids and Rings of Power are a bad combination. Everyone was very lucky to get out of this one relatively unharmed, and it was a good warning experience for the family. I also really liked the images of Elrond surrounded by his closest family and friends. They form a lovely "ring" that protects and nurtures him just as much as the bijou on his finger.

French Pony · 1 July 2006 · Chapter 10: The Company

I am starting to catch up now. Elrond srikes me as interestingly passive in this chapter. His wisdom is not analytical. He doesn't sit and examine a problem with the intent of discovering a solution on his own, and this seems to resonate with his statement that the problem of the Ring is, as far as the Elves are concerned, somebody else's problem. His major skill seems to be in facilitating. He knows when he has the right combination of people to get them together at a Council that will decide the fate of the world, and he is open and receptive to the visions that tell him to include Legolas and Gimli. He can't give any particular reason yet, but he knows that they have to be there, so he'll trust that it's enough for now. He really seems to be running on faith alone. Not active, but no less brave than the warriors.

Eruanneth_Luin · 1 July 2006 · Chapter 15: Queen of Elves and Men

Elrond knows well the remembered pain of the last severing of two blood-bound fëar. Though the newly revealed care of the Maia Mithrandir and the incandescent protection of Glorfindel envelope him, neither can plumb the depths of pain he has once suffered and must again endure at an unalterable parting. It is encouraging that Elrond, who has been the source of strength, comfort and healer for his people for years uncounted, is learning to accept the need of those he has served to now serve him in like fashion. For Galadriel no other can impart the necessary shielding and comfort better than her beloved Celeborn, yet she is doomed to depart without him by her side. Not for the pardoned Exile the awaiting arms of love, but empty years and crushing loneliness. How I ache for her loss. Glorfindel basking in the sun! Now there is a lovely word picture. A perfect, golden elf gleaming in the sunshine is more beauty than the mind can image. Thank you for the captivating thought. No one other than Glorfindel could possible be so forthright in illuminating Elrond’s deteriorating condition and not be rebuked for his frank honesty. The fading of Elrond you portray powerfully and give a glimpse of the utterly devastating series of events leading to his deep wounding. An elf would long ago have succumbed to the grievous song telling the litany of his losses. Great-hearted, glorious, golden Glorfindel, a bulwark and buckler in times of danger, now the solid ground and calm waters Elrond so desperately needs as his world crumbles about him. Was ever a friendship so earnestly imparted that is failed to benefit both parties? What of the sundering of Elladan and Elrohir from their sister? Are you going to explore that aspect of this latest rending apart of the House of Elrond? Ah, the gifting of the jewel from compassionate hearts to enable the healing process and the surprise of the existence of Hobbits. Small wonder that the curious Mithrandir would be drawn to these simple folk and, even on occasion, ponder the role they might play in the future of Arda. Wise advice from the heart of Elrond to Arwen ‘You must choose now to live fully in the present’. Words that are fraught with significance for us all, since each moment, as it swiftly passes, is where we exist. How fond are the memories of our youth and those of our children growing through the maturing phases of their new lives. What loving parent would not wish to recall the sweet child we remember from some future pain? Alas, that neither Men nor Elves can spare those they love best from the consequences of their actions. It was of great interest to see that even in pre-adulthood, Arwen was already preparing for her future as a Queen of Men. Thank you, Nilmandra, for another wonderful chapter.

Bodkin · 1 July 2006 · Chapter 15: Queen of Elves and Men

Poor Elrond. Without Glorfindel and Mithrandir to support him and keep hauling him back, I'm not sure that he would have lasted through this. And Galadriel is stronger than he is, but being anywhere near her is to be swamped with the song of the sea. Watching Arwen must have been the hardest thing - to feel her move away and take on the fate of men and lose that contact with her... I wonder if it's worse because he has already done it with Elros and knows the pain of parting. (And how it was for Elu and Melian - both to lose Luthien to death and then have her return for such a limited time.) And whether the division is part of losing a daughter to marriage anyway. It might well be - it wouldn't work terribly well to have too close a bond between parents and childen once they bound themselves in marriage. But you made it so painful - it was as if parting in Rohan will not be the worst of it - this sundering was far more significant. I'm just glad Elrond recovered enough to spend some of what little time they have left with Arwen. And Mithrandir's happy granting of her request - his power has definitely increased and he is not afraid to show it. I love all the physical touches and mental brushes, all offering strength to Elrond - it is an indication of how much everyone around him loves him. Elladan and Elrohir must be worried sick at the moment - they're doing their best, but I reckon there must be some changes before they will be willing to remain behind when their adar sails. Possibly to complete something that is even more important to him. The flashback to daintily imperious Arwen demanding the right to go off and represent her adar and charm the crown off the king - was delightful. And the memory of being left with a happy Celebrian is an indication of what I hope will happen once Elrond crosses the briny - with the pair of them awaiting the return of their loved ones. Most by ship - and the remainder in time, beyond the circles of Arda. Beautifully written - and so emotional!

Gwynhyffar · 1 July 2006 · Chapter 15: Queen of Elves and Men

Siiiiigh. Elrond's grief is so vivid and powerful that I could feel it with him. As sad as it is, he really needs to sail. I love the memory of Arwen deciding to take it upon herself to represent her father - with his permission, of course. Her way of handing her brothers made me laugh too, and it all seems very normal for her. Celebrian's plans for an empty house were wonderful, and I am sure she followed them all through! Excellent chapter, Nilmandra! :-)

meckinock · 30 June 2006 · Chapter 15: Queen of Elves and Men

I was so relieved when Elrond woke up to see Gandalf. Even stalwart and loyal Glorfindel didn't seem able to truly alleviate his pain, just merely to prop him up so he could be flattened by it over again, but there's something about Gandalf. Elrond's perception of him was amazing for seemingly the old man had been burnt away on Zirakzigil, replaced by this lighter being. His movements flowed with new grace. along with his musing about where Gandalf might have been before he returned. But so much pain in this chapter. It was hard enough for Elrond to see Arwen no longer as his daughter but as the queen of men, but even harder was when Arwen realized how much pain she had caused her father, and his line - there is no pain I would not bear for you brought tears to my eyes. It was so realistic that it would be out of realization that his daughter needed him that Elrond would begin to find his own strength again. I was absolutely delighted that Gandalf was empowered to grant Arwen's request, and that she was shocked that he did not merely pass along the request but granted it on the spot. I was cheering! The flashback scenes were delightful, and perfectly placed. I think already the sorrow of the resolution to Arwen's journey was bringing me to think of the earlier chapters of your story, and her happy times with her father, and then this memory of Elrond's brought that memory to life. And I love how he can recognize Elladan's drawing. Elrond is such a dorky dad, reflexively forbidding Arwen's request, although I liked his rationale that he should wait a few days so she thinks he gave it serious consideration. I'm glad Glorfindel stuck up for her so she could go. And Erestor was a hoot, assuming that he was going to be in charge. I loved Elrond's reply that he was in charge of everything except safety on the road. This was a difficult but very full and rewarding chapter, Nilmandra.

Linda Hoyland · 30 June 2006 · Chapter 15: Queen of Elves and Men

This is very moving and you have made me feel for poor Elrond as no other writer has.

Amy · 30 June 2006 · Chapter 15: Queen of Elves and Men

I do so love your Arwen, she who cannot be resisted. It must be interesting for Elrond to shift from thinking and doing to feeling and being. I wish I had more time to wallow in your fic, but at least I've had a chance for a quick read-through. Marvelous!

perelleth · 30 June 2006 · Chapter 15: Queen of Elves and Men

Wow! Impressive Nilmandra! Poor Elrond! I particualrly appreciated how you pictured Elrond's disorientation first time Aragorn and Arwen enter the common room.. the physical image of the room expanding was very fitting, giving a perfect image of his confusion and his loss! These are painful moments and Elrond and Galadriel's strength must be wholly consumed, their living on their last preserves and it shows. Powerful Mithrandir and bossy Glorfindel are actually the support they all needed. And I really liked the flashback! I was missing those episodes!Arwen really comes out in this chapter as the noble Elf-woman she was; wise, compassionate and deeply aware of her doom, thus embracing it wholly. I liked that. As one who seldom rereads LOTR beyond "The Steward and the King", I am bracing for what comes next :-)

shirebound · 30 June 2006 · Chapter 15: Queen of Elves and Men

“This was a gift from the elves of Tol Eresseä, a sign of their friendship to Men. When my grandfather Eärendil sailed from Sirion in search of Valinor, he carried with him a token that granted him passage where none with mortal blood had been allowed before. Let this be Frodo’s token, a sign that we send an elf-friend, one to whom we wish the Elves to grant friendship, much as they did to Men long ago.” That's truly wonderful. We all try to explain the origin and meaning of that gem in different ways, and this is very logical and lovely.

daw the minstrel · 30 June 2006 · Chapter 15: Queen of Elves and Men

I really like this chapter. In particular, I liked the flashback to Arwen, giving us a glimpse of how determined she was and also of the preparation she had to be queen of men and elves. I also liked the link to going home at the end and going to Elven home. This must have been hard to write, given how devastated Elrond was, but you handled that wonderfully.

Eruanneth_Luin · 5 June 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

Ever bound to Middle Earth is the significance of trees, especially this scion of the tree given to the Numenorean people by the Elves. A more fitting symbol uniting the bloodlines of Men and Elves would be hard to find. Two ring-bearers and the two most powerful rings, one keeper with the strength to wield for good, the other with the strength to resist the evil, and both keepers damaged beyond their ability to understand the long term effects. How Elrond must have grieved for the hobbit: thus far Frodo had not been presented with the offer to take ship for the Blessed Realm where healing might be achieved. Two elven ring-bearers brought to a close the last Ages of the dominion of the Elves as they relinquished elven daughter and grand-daughter to the keeping of a mortal son-of–the-heart. Elrond and Galadriel, both seriously depleted in body and spirit sealed the doom of all their kindred in the Hither lands. Grief upon grief their needs grew as their strength failed. Yet the joy of Aragorn and Arwen, a joy undimmed by future sorrow or pain, lifted their hearts, if only for a brief time. Ah, the jewel; perhaps a faint radiance of starlight caught in crystal, reminiscent of the light of Eärendil, a gift to a royal Númenórean, maybe imbued by a single drop of dew from one of the Two Trees, it must have been tied somehow to Aman and a key perchance to admittance when bestowed at the proper time and to the proper person. It is endlessly intriguing to take the tidbits left by Tolkien and discover possible hidden meanings or tales. As ever the Powers care deeply for these blended representatives of the different races; without their blessing and aid Celebrían would have been unable to comfort her husband in his time of greatest need. It is easy for us to forget the kindnesses in the midst of our bitter misery. You are profoundly right, it would have been the final, nearly complete sundering when Arwen bound her immortal fëa to the mortal fëa of Aragorn. Elrond needed so desperately to find relief from the mounting losses in the fëa-companionship of Celebrían. Thank the Valar for their compassion. And sincere thanks to you, Nilmandra, for bringing to life this journey of Elrond through heartbreaking endings and joyous beginnings.

perelleth · 3 June 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

Wonderful, Nilmandra! It had the contained feeling of bittersweet melancholy that, soft humour and wise resignation that, I think, suits an account of this celebration as seen from from Elrond and the rest of the elves' pov. Interesting that it must have been such a joyful, exhilarating event seen from the gondorian's pov, unawares of the deep sorrow mixed in the celebration and how much the firstborns were graciously giving up there. Such is history, I think. I will not deny my sorrow, Aragorn son of Arathorn, but you are not the cause. Wise peredhil. That pretty much sums it all up. joy and pain, gain and loss and accepting fate. And Pippin was a hoot! Great. Really liked it. Now I must say that I'm looking forward to seeing Elrond meeting Celebrian!

DJ · 29 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

I am crying as I write this, but I just has to login so I could leave a review. Your _History Lessons:..._ are wonderful, explaining so much to me that I didn't understand when I read _The Simarillion_ in particular. Not that you are violating Tolkien's canon--you are supplementing it. (And I read somewhere that Tolkien wrote that was partially his motivation in creating this literary universe: to create a mythology to which others could add.) _...The Third Age_ tale Is both wonderful and distressing. Wonderful is the plotline, the characterizations, and the original look at events in _The Lord of the Rings_ from the point of the elves. Distressing is because I feel so badly for Elrond. For all he has done and suffered to bring about Sauron's downfall and to restore the Kingdon of Gondor and Arnor, it does not end happily for him. I always thought it sad that Elrond lost Arwen to mortality and had to sail off to Valinor before even seeing his grandchildren and perhaps gaining some comfort in seeing Arwen and Aragorn in them. However I never before thought about the bearers of the Three Rings of the Elves, and what happened to them when the One Ring was destroyed. Elrond is so diminished (as is Galadriel), and to have to go through losing his daughter and foster son (although he always knew he would eventually lose Aragorn) while still not adjusted to the lost of Vilya's power, is painful to witness. I do love that you have given him the support of others: Glorfindel, his sons, Celeborn, Erestor, and even Celebrian during this time. An especially wonderful part of this particular chapter was when Elrond was with Frodo. He realized that he was a healer (and a leader and a loremaster, and everything else he is) long before Vilya came into his possession, and that he is a healer still. Vilya may have amplified his abilities, but it did not create them. To me, this says that once he adjusts to Vilya's loss of power he will regain himself and reclaim the use of the abilities he's always had. You don't write Mithrandir as diminished when Narya lost its power--is that because he is a Maia and thus didn't rely on it for power only to help others? Or is it because its connection to him was broken when he died, and he bore it for only a short time after he came back? I'm both looking forward to the rest of this story, because it's a wonderful story. And I'm also dreading it, because everything is so sad for Elrond. Since I so seldom login to leave a review, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for creating and running Stories of Arda. In my opinion, this site is the best place to find and read great LOTR fanfiction. Best, DJ

Dot · 28 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

I was wondering what you were going to do with the wedding. Sad as it all is, I really like how you’ve written it – concentrating on what it means for everyone as it symbolises beginnings and endings, rather than just looking at the ceremonies themselves. The slightly detached feeling suits Elrond’s mood. He gives others the comfort they need but he still seems to be looking internally rather than externally. The scene with Frodo was very moving. I was glad to see that Elrond could offer Frodo some healing. It’s so sad to think that Elrond recognises the seeds of disquiet within the hobbit and knows that the future won’t be easy for him. But the encounter was probably good for Elrond in some ways. After all, he was an elf of strength and wisdom, gifted in healing and with great insight before he ever wielded Vilya and though he and Frodo share a loss, he has millennia of experience to fall back upon that Frodo, for all his strength and courage, doesn’t - even though the immediate sense of loss is greater for Elrond because Vilya was part of him for so long. Plus, he has people who understand what the loss of the ring’s power meant for him. Not to lessen what’s happened to either of them, of course. I’m just thinking out loud. Merry and Pippin made me smile. They’ve gained a certain graveness with their experiences but they’re still so full of life. I thought it was a lovely scene with them deciding who’d stand with Aragorn and Arwen. It’s so good to see the depth of the bond that’s still there between Aragorn and Elrond. I laughed at Elladan and Elrohir dragging Aragorn off. I love these glimpses of the joy and mischief that goes with a wedding in the midst of all the other emotions. I was so glad to see Elrond meet Celebrían on the Path of Dreams and to see her provide him with comfort and support. But what a poignant moment when he hears her explain that healing could not be offered because the pain of losing their daughter would yet be deepened. I really enjoyed the teasing between Elladan, Elrohir, Elrond and Celeborn about the father-in-law talk. And one of my favourite scenes was the one between Glorfindel and Elrond. Elrond seems to be realising that he needs to give in to those wishing to help him. And luckily, Glorfindel will not let him bear more than he has to alone. I just love the story about the white jewel – and of the conversations between Elrond and Gilraen. I’m looking forward to hearing more about the jewel! I also like the little moment where Elrond more or less gives permission for Arwen to do what she wants with it. I was pleased to see how honest these two are with each other. Aragorn is all too aware that this day doesn’t bring only joy, and I think Elrond speaks truthfully when he says that he doesn’t blame anyone and that he can see beyond his pain to rejoice in their love for each other. I was glad to see him reassure Aragorn how much he loved him as a son since he was just a child. And it was a very beautiful moment when Aragorn takes Elrond’s hands and provides some healing. It must have been so difficult for him to speak of Arwen’s end but it will be interesting to see what Aragorn will make of his words when the time comes. Celebrían! What a moment, to have her reach out and strengthen Elrond, to be with him on this day. Neither of them were alone at this time of such pain and Elrond can let both children go with dignity and grace. What struck me about Celebrían’s appearances in this is really how Elrond is moving away from here already. Always Glorfindel and Celeborn and Galadriel have supported him and they still do, but he seems to be seeking his wife, looking across the sea, needing her presence. He’s already on the edges of all that is taking place in M-e and is moving further away, whether he realises it or not. I thought it was very touching too that Eärendil seemed to be watching over and blessing them. I wouldn’t have thought of that, that on this night he sees the lines of his sons reunited. I love how you always help us see events in the greater scheme of things, as well as focusing on the individual. Tears came to my eyes when Elrond felt that emptiness as Arwen gave herself completely to a mortal. I really would have cried if Celebrían hadn’t led him to the Path of Dreams and some rest and comfort! I’m dreading the final parting. As well as wanting to see it, of course :-/ Though by then Elrond will hopefully be strengthened enough to deal with it better than he could if it was now. This was rather more rushed than I wanted it to be – the review, not the chapter! – but let me just say that it - the chapter, not the review! - was incredible, as always. Very much looking forward to more :-)

Ellie · 28 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

Another wonderful chapter! You capture Elrond's fading and his attempt to hang on and cope so well! I love Glorfindel and Celebrian helping him through the wedding time. This is all so very bitter sweet. Beautiful wedding. Poor Elrond.

Redheredh · 28 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

Finally, able to feast on fanfic after a week of being on short rations! Heaven on earth! I have said it before and mean it more than ever: this is a masterwork. Elron's personal emotions are of course the focus, but with each chapter you clarify the epic majesty of his entire family's dedication. It comes from the heart as well as being a matter of honor for each one of them. Loved your story for the jewel given to Frodo by Arwen! That was a grand explanation and a sparkling example of an honest interest and research. Personally, I am very happy you included the Tree in Aragorn's meaningful plans and kept in some of the enthusiasm he felt when he discovered it. ;) Until then, he still was not *sure*, now was he? Another great chapter, one that emphasized important milestones that are often overlooked by dwelling too long, or only, on the moment of victory. Tolkien followed the Hobbits past that point, you are following the Elves. So, thanks for doing that. :D

elliska · 27 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

I read this last night I was bawling too much to leave a review. I just re-read it and I am in pretty much the same state. Geez, Nilmandra, this was a really powerful chapter and there is so much in it that I love--Frodo's meeting with Elrond was very well done. You do they hobbits very well. Indeed I liked all the 'secondary' characters in this--Mithrandir was wonderful, Glorfindel was at his best taking care of Elrond, the twins were causing trouble with Aragorn, and I loved the "we spoke that day" conversation with Celeborn. That was too funny. But there were two things that I loved the most in this: first, I really loved Elrond's talk with Aragorn--both parts. His "father-in-law" words were exactly as I imagined them. And the legend that you created for the white gem was wonderful. I absolutely love it. The second thing I loved was Celebrian. I was so happy to see her here, I was pleased Elrond could so strongly feel her presence, even in wakefulness, I was relieved that she had people supporting her as Galadriel observed. After everything Elrond sacrificed and endured in his life, it seems right that the Valar would give him support/strength then. The description of Elrond's loss of Arwen was so powerful. Very well done, Nilmandra. (I'm almost afraid to see their final parting).

Amy · 26 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

Random thought: In para. 2, I can see why Aragorn says it, but I have my doubts that he would be capable of this amount of coherence with Arwen cascading into bloom next to him upon seeing the White Tree. I feel quite sure he could manage kissing her hand quite well, however.

RS · 25 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

It's funny you mentioned the jewel that Arwen gave to Frodo in ROTK! I have oftened wondered myself about that jewel. I am so glad you will expand on this as I do love your interpretations! The wedding of Aragorn and Arwen. You've written this so well that I just wanted to push Elrond in a room and say, "Hey, don't ruin my fun, stay in here and think those thoughts to yourself! I want to celebrate this wonderful union!" (that's just selfish ol' me!). You've described his torment so well that I didn't know whether to be happy or cry! It was really agonizing! Your touch of humor lessened the anxiety I was feeling (and Elrond's too). I am glad Glorfindel was there to help him as well as Galadriel and Celeborn, not to mention the twins (I would have liked to know what they did with Aragorn the night before!) I am so glad Celebrian was there in spirit to comfort him. Ummm, I kind of felt uncomfortable when Elrond realized at that moment that Arwen had finally consummated her wedding bond (is it getting hot in here or is it just me?). That was also a finality for Elrond. Again Celebrian was there to help him through it. Beautiful! One little think that got confusing. When Aragorn and Arwen were exchanging rings, I thought ARagorn took the silver ring from Arwen and slipped it into his pocket. But then you had Arwen taking the ring from Aragorn's hand and putting it into the fold of her dress? Forgive me but this is the second time I have seen LACE mentioned. Can you please explain this to me? I have only started reading Tolkien two years ago..still a novice. Thank you for a wonderful read!

Bodkin · 25 May 2006 · Chapter 14: The Wedding

Poor Elrond. I reckon he should be grateful to his biographer here - you offered him all the support possible through this trial. The glory that is Glorfindel, the experience and compassion of Galadriel and Celeborn, the love of his children, the reminder that Aragorn, too, is one of his own - and Celebrian. That the powers should bring him together with her to help him endure this time is a perfect reflection of love. And, moreover, a love that Arwen and Aragorn will have, if only for a very short time. (What's 120 years?) His compassion and understanding towards Frodo is remarkable, too. As is his realisation that he still retains the power of a great line of elves - while Frodo is bereft and drifting in a world that cannot begin to understand. I loved his teasing of Celeborn - (conversation? What conversation?) - when his words to Aragorn clearly demonstrate that he remembers every word. Each step is a part of the dance - and beautifully choreographed. Everyone is protecting Elrond - but the end result is a loss he will find it hard to endure. He needs to sail and allow Celebrian to offer him healing he cannot find east of the sea. And to reinforce his belief that it will only be time that will divide him from his daughter - and Aragorn and his grandchildren and brother and so on. And what is time to an elf? Especially in the timelessness of the Blessed Realm. But poor Elrond. So much time spending himself to secure the future of Middle Earth - and the cost, in the end, so much more than he would want to pay. But he did it anyway. Send him home to his wife, Nilmandra, and let Celebrian ease the pain.

Larner · 25 May 2006 · Chapter 7: Lords of Dignity and Power

And so Elladan continues to blame Elrohir for seeming passivity; they have bidden Celebrian farewell and sent her to the healing she couldn't find here; and they face the last push to removed the shard from Frodo. Quite a lot for one chapter.

Larner · 25 May 2006 · Chapter 6: The Ring-bearer

Again the comparisons of the two woundings are touching and show many parallels. Heartsore and spirit-sickened, both needed what they could not find here; both found it in the end.

Larner · 25 May 2006 · Chapter 5: The Lord of Abomination Part II

This must have been nearly intolerable, bringing their mother home so; and now Elrond sees something similar being done to Frodo. No wonder he is troubled by such memories of his wife's torment! And in this case the chain came from another, and he lifted the Ring with a quill. Very clever.