Reviews (376)

Elenluin · 23 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Probably your best chapter yet! I could really picture all the events and I love the way you subtily make clear how much all have changed through this war. Not only Elrond and Galadriel, but also the 'common' Rohirrim people who see their lands destroyed, although there is joy because of their victory; the pain will not be forgotten for a long time...

Bodkin · 23 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Poor Elrond. Galadriel is not the only one who is diminished. They have both had so much taken from them and must feel like people in the throes of an energy-sapping illness. With family members hovering anxiously around them, too, wondering how they will cope and being ready to offer support. I loved this look at the parts not usually seen. Supportive Glorfindel lending his strength to a shattered Elrond. Galadriel leaning on Celeborn - clear-sightedly knowing what has befallen her - better than Elrond, I think, but then she's older and wilier and isn't just about to surrender her daughter to the fate of mortals. Elrond's irritability is just such a natural reaction - and yet it takes his sons aback. They are so used to calm, understanding, all-powerful Elrond - it'll take them a while to understand just how hurt he is. And although it could have been far far worse, it's bad enough. Love, love strong, prepared, determined Arwen. However much moving on from her life as her Adar's daughter hurts, her time has come and she is eager to become Aragorn's wife. And she is ready. It is right, too, that Eomer and Eowyn (charming, the pair of them. And young,) should be so much more interested in her than in the rest of the elves. She is part of the future - the elves are part of the past. Mind you, Eowyn was definitely impressed by Glorfindel! Hardly surprisingly! Elladan's comment - he might not have meant it the way it sounds, but it must have stung. Poor Elrond - loving Estel as well as Arwen still wouldn't have reconciled himself to handing his daughter a death sentence. And he is correct that Aragorn could not have married and been the right person in the right place to return to the days of the king. Mystic quests don't work that way. Between them, though, Erestor and Glorfindel are doing a pretty good job of standing between Elrond and the cold winds of this new world. Beautiful inevitability to the journey across the Pelennor - terrific symbolism to Arwen's banner. Joyful and painful reunion between Elrond and Aragorn. It is such an act of courage to hand on the torch and step away. May Elrond find every happiness he deserves in his sacrifice. Excellent chapter.

Ellie · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

This chapter was beautiful with the amazing turmoil within Elrond as he coped with all of his losses : Vilya's power, his daughter, his hope and joy in Middle-earth. He is so diminished and so sad. I love Glorfindel, Erestor, and Celeborn always there to watch over Elrond and Galadriel. It is amazing how what was such a beautiful sequence in the novel has become so full of sorrow pain and regret when seen through Elrond's eyes. I also like the way his sons have finally come into their own as leaders with their assiting in Rohan. Bravo! Well done!

elliska · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Wow, this chapter had me bawling at a number of places. What struck me most about it was the fact that Elrond, who has clearly always been the very central character in all this series, is still very central here, but it is other people, Arwen in particular, that are active. Since the whole point here is that Elrond's time is fading, and he has to learn to deal with all that means, his portrayal in this chapter is all the more powerful/meaningful. Really well done, Nilmandra. There are several images I really love in this, but the one I like the most is the elves seeing Arwen's banner flying. That was great. So was Elrond passing the sceptre to Aragorn--what a way to end this chapter. I honestly think this was you best chapter yet. There was so much subtle meaning to everything in it. Absolutely wonderful!

Nikara · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Wow. A powerful and somewhat painful chapter. I hadn't considered what would happen to Elrond when the ring was gone. The feelings and emotions of Elrond are incredibly well portrayed. Nicely done.

Eruanneth_Luin · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

'Her hope had inspired many, and the elves had looked up in hope, rather than south in worry or west in longing.' This line really caught me with the intense concern of the elves, as one so often thinks of Imladris as being ‘safe and hidden’ meaning they need not be on constant alert nor be subject to invasion. It is one of the ironic twists that win or lose, the elves would be sundered from all that they had endeavored to preserve. What a vivid terror for Elrond. That Vilya would not loose him was frightening in the face of what ‘might’ have transpired. It gave me chills reading it! His diminishment after the severing from the Power of the One Ring you described with such feeling that it was easy to feel with Elrond the utter disruption of his long alliance with the Ring of Air and the twin influences of dangers and responsibilities of that bonding. Glorfindel! Ah, to have such a true friend if the dearest wish of all good folk. Strength, kindness, protection, comfort, laughter, truth; all these and much more come wrapped in the glorious form of the twice-born elf-lord of Valinor. Not one, but two devoted to the mental and physical well-being of Elrond. Erestor has a deft manner in dealing with the newly unshielded and vulnerable Lord of Imladris. ‘The young and untamed people’. Yes, that would likely be attractive to the elves. To see the unbound energy and fervor, the excitement of life hot in their mortal lives, must have given new joy to the elves, much as the enthusiasm of the very young bring smiles of delight to adults who are blessed by their presence. Thank you for another heartbreaking, heartwarming chapter.

Dot · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Wow. I mean, wow. I was really looking forward to this part and was thrilled to bits to see it here today! I’m starting to think that my favourite chapters are the ones where you think nothing happens :-D This was amazing. I was so engrossed reading it tonight that I didn’t even notice it growing dark around me! I thought it was a lovely touch that the Hall of Fire wasn’t used until Arwen opened it in celebration. And this is a great line: Her hope had inspired many, and the elves had looked up in hope, rather than south in worry or west in longing. Arwen is such an inspiration. It’s clear that she will be a worthy and beloved queen. And it seems that even Elrond allowed himself to feel a little hope as Frodo neared his destination. You paint a very clear picture of the waiting that he had to endure. What strength it must have taken not to allow his fears to overwhelm him. But then, he had the best support possible, even if he had to, by necessity, face most of it alone. I held my breath in that moment before the Ring’s destruction. I thought that one gesture of Glorfindel’s – holding Arwen back until he knows that Elrond is himself – really shows the awfulness of what might have been. It’s really amazing to see the effects of Sauron’s destruction this far away – seeing the smoke and ash, wondering if loved ones are safe – but… poor Elrond! So many people are rejoicing and yet he now faces a new struggle. The effect on him of Vilya’s loss of power is incredibly well done, Nilmandra. My heart went out to him. The physical effect alone must have been such a shock but it goes so much deeper than that. And it’s frightening to see the loss of his connection with the valley - and it is such a deep loss that it seems so unfair that he has been ripped of so much of his strength when he now needs it most to face what is to come. It was a very moving moment (even though you can never let the poor guy sleep in peace!) when Arwen comes to tell Elrond that Frodo has survived. It must have been such a relief to Elrond, as the one who sent him on the quest. It’s too easy to forget how difficult that must have been for Elrond, even if he knew it had to be. The vision of his pregnant daughter in her rightful place made me smile even as I felt Elrond’s pain. The conflict within him is so clear but he knows that much happiness lies in her future. I was actually glad to see the part with Arwen going from room to room and spending some time with memories of her mother and of her home. I thought it was a perfect way of reminding us that she is leaving much behind and despite her determination and excitement, it must be difficult for her, even if she keeps that to herself. The most touching scene of the whole chapter was the one with Bilbo! There’s such affection and respect between them – and understanding too, I feel. Galadriel has a lot of strength left in her still, it seems, though you do a tremendous job in showing the quite frightening force of the turmoil in her now that Nenya can’t keep it at bay. She’ll be a comfort to Elrond. She certainly understands the emotions he’s trying to learn to control. I hate to think that she’ll be parted from Celeborn soon, though :-/ I thoroughly enjoyed the journey! It was fascinating to read about the places they travelled through, to see the war’s effect on them, to see life returning, to see people picking themselves up and starting anew. And what a sight they must have been! It made me laugh to think of them like a band of travelling circus folk, bringing song and music with them! But it’s lovely to think that they might have brought a smile to the faces of those that they did encounter. The strength in Elladan when he greets his father is such a contrast with Elrond. I admit I did cringe at his words about Aragorn being worthy of Arwen but there’s no doubt he didn’t mean it how it sounded. I felt quite bad for him when he realised what he’d done and how it might have affected his father. But more interesting was Elrond’s reaction. He had every right to chastise Elladan for tactlessness in public or to feel hurt at the implication but the old Elrond never would have reacted with anger. He’s worn and weary and emotional and his nerves are frayed and everything is going to irritate him. And all these things are going to make those who love him want to take care of him – which he’s going to find difficult until he can accept that he does need their care. Already Galadriel has helped soothe him and Glorfindel and Erestor are endless sources of strength. Yay for Erestor, by the way!! I loved the whole part in Meduseld! Your Éomer and Éowyn are very likeable people and you really get across their youth and enthusiasm along with their strength and the obvious love that their people have for them. I was so glad to see that Arwen and Éowyn are on the way to being friends. Arwen is so good with her. I admit that I wondered why she was being so open with someone that she’s just met until you explained it a few paragraphs later and I think that, as always, Arwen knew the right thing to do. Indeed, Elrohir made the right decision in telling Arwen of Éowyn and it shows his own sensitivity and his faith in his sister. I love the fact that Éowyn and Glorfindel have befriended each other too! Of course they have much in common. And it’s amusing to think that he’s probably more interested in her than she is in him! That scene between Elrond and his sons brought tears to my eyes. I was relieved to see his honesty with them – though they would have suspected much already. Yet there are clearly some thoughts that Elrond is unwilling to even face himself yet, let alone share with anyone. It will take him a while to learn to bear this new burden. I think one of the saddest things is this distance that he feels from everything. His part is nearly over. Oh, and I forgot to say how much I liked the way Elrohir and Elladan have clearly helped support Éomer and guide him and his people. They’re two charismatic characters and the ease with which they mingle with the people of Rohan seems to have granted them acceptance in return. Arwen’s banner! You and she have put a lot of thought into it! It is a reminder of blessings and promises, of a line renewed and it shows hope and strength for the future. It’s also a sign of the rightness of all this – that this truly is Arwen’s destiny and the fate of Men. I thought this was a very powerful and moving line: No longer would the Elves succor Men in their youth and old age; no longer would they remember for Men their lore, lest it pass away. Elrond is handing so much more than the Sceptre over to Aragorn. I loved the way Galadriel, Celeborn and Glorfindel all gave Elrond strength to face this moment and to do this with dignity. And it touched me that he saw Aragorn firstly as his son. Placing his daughter’s hand in Aragorn’s must have been a moment of so many emotions for him, even as it’s some comfort to him to see their joy in and love for each other. And… then there was no more to scroll down to!! I could have kept reading this for ages. Oh well. This was a truly great chapter – it’s so fascinating to see this from Elrond’s point of view and you always treat him with such sensitivity and respect and insight that it feels like such a privilege to get to see this side of him. I’m tremendously excited about the next chapter!

Amy · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

I can't leave w/o reviewing, but I can't be coherent with tears pouring down my face, so this is a placeholder review, and I'll try to get back after I've reread. This has been a wonderful story, but this chapter may top them all in heartbreak, realism, satisfaction, insights: yeah, it's all that.

Dreamflower · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

What a lovely and amazing take on this part of events! I know that I have seen the Three affected in two different ways in fics: some show them diminishing, but not totally shorn of power all at once, a fading rather; others, like you, show them losing their power the moment the One went into the Fire. Both have interpretations have something to be said for them, but I did love the way you handled it--it must have been so hard to lose that power, which he had relied on for countless years; much like being suddenly stricken blind or deaf! I really did love the way you showed their journey. I think my favorite part of that was the beautifully compassionate encounter between Arwen and Eowyn. And I would like to be privy to that conversation between Eowyn and Glorfindel.(And to be honest, between Glorfindel and Merry!) And the ending! Ah, what beautiful foresight Arwen showed when she wrought that banner! Gorgeous! Just gorgeous! I look forward now to the wedding, and to Elrond encountering Frodo once more.

SurgicalSteel · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

This was just lovely - Elrond having to learn all over again how to guard his thoughts, his children realizing his weakness with the loss of Vilya's power. Just wonderful, I really enjoyed this!

Jay of Lasgalen · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

How nice to come home from work and find an update! Elrond's reaction to the destruction of the Ring was profound. It must have been a terrifying time for those with him - if he awoke, would he be in his own mind? Or would Sauron have claimed him? The swift deterioration in his powers and well-being make it very clear why he had to sail. I always felt that part of Elrond's reason to make Arwen and Aragorn wait until he claimed the throne was because he did not think Aragorn worthy of her. I think Elladan got it right. Jay

Elflingimp · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

The spirit of Tolkien clearly resideds within you.

shirebound · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

Elrond returned the smile, but he could force it to last only a moment. There were no words to describe the emptiness and loss in his heart. He had wielded Vilya for so long, it was so entwined with his own innate power – indeed, had exceeded it – that he felt as if his heart were shredded, flayed, and the wounds that had been left behind could not be stitched closed, nor were the gaps small enough or few enough to simply be rewoven. Healing would take time. A very long time. What a perfect description of his loss and longing -- and also that of Frodo's. This is a marvelous chapter, full of depth and sorrow and joy, and hope fulfilled.

daw the minstrel · 22 April 2006 · Chapter 13: Seven Stars and Seven Stone and One White Tree

I thought this was a fascinating look at this period from Elrond's point of view. He's not the center of the action here, as he's so often been in your stories. He watches from afar and surrenders so much. Watching him struggle is fascinating. I was particularly thrilled by the ride through the Pelennor. Wow. I actually got shivers.

Ellie · 15 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

Still loving this story. It is soo incredibly amazing how much history and feeling you pack into every chapter. I was glad to see this story was nominated for an MPA. Well done! I look forward to the next chapter.

The Karenator · 14 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

You know...*punches finger in air to make point*...we know what was going on with the Fellowship, but back on the farm, it must have been tense. I don't think there's anything worse than waiting. People who are loved by the Rivendell crowd were heading truly into the eye of the storm. Everyone must have been biting their nails. The eagles were great. I want a talking eagle. A real bird's eye view. Unfortunately, the news was sad. Glorfindel's grief was touching and a testament to his devotion and love for Gandalf. The flashback to Gandalf's first visit to Rivendell was neat and well done. All this transforming physically from spirit to flesh would tire a guy out. I hadn't thought about Olorin arriving with a hole in his memories, but it makes sense. A nice touch there. It also speaks of just how much trust and bravery it took for Gandalf to step into such a role. Not only would be a difficult job, but he would being going in sans most of his memories. This struck me as something of a birth experience, or at least as close to one that he could come by since he arrived as a full grown adult. When the Dunadain showed up, I got all excited. Meckinock has made me into a squeeing Halbarad fan, and to see Arwen place the standard in his hands was very moving, since we know that Halbarad gave his life to defend it. The other thing I found really interesting is the communication between the ringbearers. This is another point I've not considered really. I like how you explained the shared link and burden. Very nicely done. Another wonderful chapter, Nilmandra.

elliska · 14 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

I have had such sporadic Internet access this week--I just saw this. Cool! I have been really anxious to see how you would handle the story after the Quest began and this is great. Elrond must have been so worried seeing the storm over the mountains and specualting what it meant. I'd say Glorfindel must have been barely able to restrain himself from wanting to help them seeing that, except he knows his place is with Elrond. (But I would have had trouble staying put after seeing that). And when I saw the eagle, I literally clapped like a little kid. I absolutely love the eagles! That was such a great idea. I do firmly believe they would be watching carefully and bringing news. So cool! And you did such an incredible job of showing everyone's reaction to hearing about Gandalf. I love the idea of eagles singing about the Battle of the Peak and I loved Glorfindel's reaction to the Balrog. “The wind has borne him where the sun sails and the moon walks. Surely his eyries receive him gladly at this the end of his journey.” I just love this line. And I loved Elrond's view of his sons: As knights they seemed to him, ready to stand next to their king. Wonderful! And Elrond's vision and his 'testing' of Sauron through Vilya! I loved how he concluded that Aragorn should be advised to draw out Sauron's armies, but it must have been terrifying too. Along the lines of Elladan and Elrohir, I loved Elrond seeing Arwen in her place, helping her future people prepare to go to war with their king. That was perfect. She was in his thoughts, but his intention was not to deter her. He allowed his pride to flow forth instead. Just perfect. And I liked how Elrond learned things through Vilya, especially how he learned of Galadriel's 'test' and how that turned to a contemplation of why certain people fell to the ring and others didn't. I thought that was fascinating. But my favorite two parts of this were the departure of the Grey Company--I loved seeing Elrond give his messages to his sons to carry to Aragorn and I loved Arwen and the banner--and the 'history' part of the story. I have always wondered how the elves must have reacted to the arrival of the wizards and how they figured things out and what the wizards told them and why etc etc. I thought this part was absolutely perfect. I was so surprised to see that as the history (even though it is obvious, given that this chapter is in part about Gandalf's fall). I just loved seeing that. This chapter was incredible. Great job, Nilmandra!

meckinock · 13 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

This chapter really highlighted the relationship between Gandalf and Glorfindel, something so intriguing and yet seldom explored. It was so moving when Glorfindel fell to his knees at the news that Gandalf had passed. I especially enjoyed the flashback to Gandalf's first visit to Rivendell. How curious everyone must have been about him. I'm glad we got to see the mustering of the Grey Company and the passing of the standard to Halbarad, too. You really tied up a lot of loose ends with this chapter in a very satisfying way.

Redheredh · 13 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

That's ROBE and Rope, both! *sheesh*

Redheredh · 13 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

*Finally* got to read this chapter, and have to admit it was all the more enjoyable for the long anticipation. At least, this time ;) In a way, I am glad that there are so many other reviews here already so that I can easily say: Ditto! Your readers are right! Four things, amidst so very many, really grabbed me. Although, they might be considered small matters. One was that nice turn of phrase "...unusual that the grey mists that normally surrounded Mithrandir had dissipated to fine white cloud." Loved that and its possible meanings! Another was that Gwaihir knew about the Ring, the Fellowship, and the Quest. Makes sense, but it set me pondering when would that exchange of knowledge had actually have taken place. Also, that Gwaihir’s presence (his conversaion with them was just one of many great scenes) would also mean that Manwe is seeing the same events unfolding. What a nervous time in Ilmarin! Just like in Imladris, watching and hoping and waiting on the right timing. Another thing was the wonderful ‘connectedness’ that you created here, on so many levels. That was truly marvelous. Nothing happens by accident, but also not entirely by fate. People make choices. They take a reasonable – in as much as that can be determined – course of action. They do not simply sit by and wait for the world to be saved by others – directly threatened themselves or not. Lastly, the banner. I read a one-shot fic long ago about how Arwen made Aragorn’s banner. The ideas in it were simply brilliant and this brought that story back to memory. It proposed that Arwen wove the black banner from her own hair just as Luthien had woven a rope from hers. Elven magic, since its basis is love, can seem so subtle. But, is so powerful! Well, this chapter was just incredible for what you figured out. The extensive footnote was much appreciated and well worth the risk. Please, never hesitate to include your thought processes - anymore than you would leave out the pertinent references from Tolkien!

RS · 13 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

Wow!! One forgets that Rivendell was still around during the travels of the nine companions. Rivendell took a backseat until now! What can I say but.. Wow! Everything just tied together (and explained very well..thank you) with the book. I really felt the sadness when the news of Gandalf's fall came. Such a dark cloud over Imladris, especially Glorfindel. (Could you imagine the exhileration when he discovers that Gandalf has come back?..Can't wait). I do love Arwen's take-charge attitude. That whole description of Arwen and the banner was just breath-taking!(sent chills up my spine). I've often wondered how the Grey Company came to help Aragorn. Your interpretation (and fill-in the blanks) has truly enhanced this already wonderful story. And again, the closeness and the love that each character feels for one another is the essence (I feel) of this story.

perelleth · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

It is plain that you amused and enjoyed yourself building this and making the connections between events, Nilmandra! and it shows too! It is amazing to unravel the many hints Tolkien let here and there and to discover that, after all, it was all there, and that he thought of everything, even if he only showed the results and certain povs. Yet for all of us that love his realm, it is a treat to dwell into the particulars, and your effort shows that greatly. I loved Gwaihir's comings and goings, and the Three Rings switching on and off. The departure of the Grey Company was very impresive too. I realy liked it, as well as Arwen's standing up to her role there, when everything was only "might" That really impressed me. Very powerful. This story is like being allowed into the backstage of LOTR, i'd say, :-)

Jay of Lasgalen · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

Apologies for being late in reviewing; I skimmed the chapter when it was posted, but haven't had time to read it properly, or comment. As time presses on to the climactic events in LOTR, you bring a lot of threads together. I liked Gwaihir's farewell tribute to Mithrandir that you took from The Hobbit - that was a nice touch. I always found it difficult to work out the reasons behind the messages Elrond sent south with the twins - both to take the Paths of the Dead, and especially the advice to draw Sauron's eye from Frodo. It's a good strategy - but seems suicidal. How could he have knowingly sent his sons into such deadly danger, where their chances of surviving must have appeared zilch? Tolkien never explained much.

Dot · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

I’m not sure where to start with this one! Well, you’ve done an excellent job in capturing the mood in Imladris – of watching and waiting and hope and anxiety. I thought the way Elrond encounters “fingers of mist and gray” when he tries to connect to Nenya and Narya adds a nicely dark edge. And you’ve made a lot more of Glorfindel than I would have thought of! Which is always good :-) I like the explanation you give of him existing “both the physical world and the world of spirit at the same time.” It’s easy to forget this sometimes when we see him as someone considered a member of Elrond’s family – and we need to feel some awe of him now and then! But it makes perfect sense that his superior sight would be useful now. Plus, it’s a means of Elrond knowing more of what might be happening than he otherwise would. It’s really interesting to see what Elrond can sense – how active Nenya is, Narya’s absence, Sauron’s presence – and you really show how tense things are as he tries to work out what might be happening. No matter what he knew logically, to feel Sauron seeking the Three and knowing he’s sent the One off into the wild must be a cause of some dread for Elrond. And a pacing, tense Glorfindel can’t be helping. An eagle! Hello! That scene between Gwaihir and the elves was amazing. What a heart-stopping moment before he told them it was Mithrandir who had fallen. Gwaihir’s own grief was very moving, and my heart went out to Glorfindel. And even though I knew very well what had happened, their shock at the news of the Balrog really came across very strongly. It was a lovely moment between the eagle and Arwen. It was a very handy way too for them to get news from Lothlorien! I hadn’t really stopped to think how much Elrond knew of Boromir’s corruption or even all that had happened on the way to Lothlorien, though I suppose I would have assumed that anything he did know would be through his own foresight or from contact with Galadriel through the rings. I like this way much better! Now this is my favourite image in the whole chapter: He looked back once to see Elrohir swing up into the low branches of the tree near where Glorfindel stood, and it comforted him to know that his son kept watch and shared in Glorfindel’s grief. Ack! That brought tears to my eyes. It’s not often that Glorfindel needs comfort but he’s clearly grieving and it’s so moving to see Elrohir’s discreet offer of support and friendship to one who has done the same for them all before. The part about Aragorn having gone to Dunharrow before to find the path… is that fact or is that you? Very interesting. And I like how involved Arwen is in it all – suggesting sending Aragorn’s kinsfolk and her awareness of the Paths of the Dead as a very real option. But by now she must trust that her father does what feels right to him ;-) I just love that moment when Elrond sees his sons as “knights”, with no hint of the recklessness with which they rushed off to battle before. They’ve really become the people that we see in RotK when they reach Aragorn. I thought it was very poignant when Elrond thinks of the times Mithrandir sat on that same couch by the fire. And what a very interesting discussion followed! Of course, Elrond did know of the first meeting between Olórin and Glorfindel – I must go back and re-read that in HLII again! – but it was so fascinating to see what they do and don’t know of the Maiar and what may be Mithrandir’s fate. So, why do you suppose Mithrandir would have “forgotten much of his past” when he came to Middle-earth? Hmm. I like how Elladan and Elrohir are so at ease with him, presumably trusting Círdan and, of course, they were more light-hearted in those days and I particularly like the way you have Glorfindel sense that he should know this person but not quite able to place him. I can just imagine everyone’s curiosity about Mithrandir too! The anger and doubt and surprise when he revealed that he had Narya were just fantastically well done. “You, dear lady, see farer and more clearly than any other in Middle-earth.” (‘farer’?) It’s a good thing that Galadriel is there, for she can sense who he truly is. And I like how blunt they all are – the elves want to know why he’s there and he explains is succinctly. There’s a very definite sense of growing trust between them all too. Glorfindel’s joy when he realises why he feels he knows him made me smile. And I think that sense of hope that he felt really helps us see what the loss of Mithrandir, especially at such a time, meant for Glorfindel. I actually had a moment of feeling so bad for Elrond , alone in the dark as the Eye seeks the rings. There’s such a sense of things coming to a head, of the end drawing closer, how near evil is and how close they are to things going so wrong. But he has such strength to try to test its will – but wow, what a realisation! He can see some of what Sauron has planned. Scary moment when the Eye returned to him, though. I imagine it would be all too easy for Elrond to give himself away too. But yes, that’s how he knows what message to send Aragorn! Very clever. I must say, I absolutely loved that gathering of the Dúnedain. It’s a wonderful image of the Great Hall lined with cloaks and clothes and helms. Arwen’s thoughtfulness and determination and strength really come across and even though it’s rather a sad thought that she’ll never again prepare Lembas and that this is her starting to take on the role she will soon fulfil, I do admire the way she steps forward to do what is needed and takes her place as leader of these Men. Was she resisting the temptation of the One, or yielding to it? Crikey, I didn’t expect Elrond to witness that! I love how you connect all the events to keep us aware of what’s happening at the same time. Elrond’s thoughts about resisting the One are interesting. I thought it was a good point that the elves would not resist out of innate goodness, but rather memory and experience. It’s difficult to say why the dwarves would resist. They seem so practical and logical that they would be naturally suspicious of anything with such power. I think you’re right too that their desire is to create. And then Elrond and Galadriel both sensing Narya’s bearer… it gave me shivers :-D It was a very powerful moment when Elrond gives his messages to his sons. Especially as it’s clear what he is instructing them and none of them know if they’ll survive it. I really liked Arwen’s explanation of the banner – I look forward to hearing more about it if you choose to tell us! She’s put so much thought into it. The last line was perfect, I thought - an offer of comfort and hope just as Elrond feels such loss and despair. Thank you for the author’s notes :-) I really appreciate the chance to see your thought processes – and to learn a lot too!

Lady Saruman · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 12: Narya

Because I needed relief from all the stress of school, I decided to go on this site...and found this story. I decided to read this story first before I went on to attack my HUGE pile of homework, plus five projects.... I liked the way that you made Elrond's possession of Vilya enable him to communicate with the other elven-ringbearers. Sometimes it can prove to be useful, but at other times when the other two aren't there, then he can be victim to the Eye of Sauron. It must be a really difficult thing to safekeep a Ring of Power, and especially if the ring(s) are likely to fall to the One's power if Sauron were to succeed in getting his Ring back. But you kind of made him risk himself yet again when he decided to let down his barriors that were protecting him from the evil just to test the Eye's will, something that would change him if he were not able to resist or got hurt. If he let down his barriors, then a number of different possibilities could occur, in which all of them would lead to disasterous results. When Gwaihir brought the bad news of Mithrandir's death, that certainly caused a very dramatic reaction throughout the members of Imladris--or rather, those who had been there to witness the meeting of the great eagle and the news he brought. It is very surprising that Glorfindel could not remember Mithrandir but had a nagging feeling that something was familiar about the Istar. Was it because the two knew each other before Glorfindel's first death? I really don't remember--perhaps you can remind me again. But at least in the end Glorfindel finally recognized--or remembered--who Gandalf was because of something that had occurred in the past. Also, when Glorfindel mourns for Mithrandir, you said that: He looked back once to see Elrohir swing up into the low branches of the tree near where Glorfindel stood, and it comforted him to know that his son kept watch and shared in Glorfindel’s grief. Elrohir isn't a wood-elf, is he? Because wood elves are the only elves that prefer to be among trees to seek comfort in times of grief, or do the other races of Elves do so too? Whatever the answer, I'm glad that Elrohir was there to share Glorfindel's mourning for the wizard, even though they might not communicate physically, but possibly mentally. And yes, it is said that Arwen making lembas bread for the men might possibly be her last time in doing so. If Aragorn survives the journey and Sauron is defeated, then he, the heir of Elendil, will come forth to the throne and recieve the crown of Gondor and the sceptre of Arnor. That means that he will be able to marry Arwen, because he met the bride price set by Elrond. But, after all, it was Arwen's choice, and so all the things she was able to do as an Eldar she would not be able to do when she becomes a mortal. However, all these things she is doing is to help the Dunedain for their journey, and that would be best of all. I also liked the part where you made Elrond feel the strong and sudden surge of power through Vilya that came from Galadriel. It was a good way to describe how she was tested for her temptation for power, and in those few moments were conflicting ones, but Elrond probably felt exceeding relieved when he found out that she had resisted. After all, he did know that she had desired power for quite a time. The concluding part of the chapter was pretty good, since you made the sending of the twins and the Grey Company and Arwen with the banner end the chapter in this way. They would all have to play a role sooner or later, and sacrafice their lives in their duties. This was a chapter that I enjoyed reading--I will most likely read it over again because of its good context. Hershey's kisses/hugs, Lady Saruman =)