Lindelea
· 31 March 2021
· Chapter 10: Three Prayers to the Valar
Whew. The first part was difficult to get through, but the joy at the end made the effort worthwhile.
It would have been such a tragedy if Elrond had hardened his heart instead of responding to Estel's desperation. I'm glad he finally realized the bond between his daughter and her chosen one.
Interesting encounter with Arwen's mother in the between-worlds; I have several similar scenes in my stories where Frodo, who also lives in the Blessed Realm (I think that's what it's called, though I might be mistaken as I'm only halfway through my first cup of coffee for the day), is "sent back" in a dream. In one story, he converses with Merry, and in another, he talks to Pippin's son Faramir. Thus, I had more than passing interest in the scene between Arwen and Celebrían. Beautifully done.
Whew. So glad for the happy ending to this chapter. Looking forward to reading more. ((hugs))
Author's reply
Lindelea!
In my stories, Elrond realises that he has been a proud and vain fool in not accepting Aragorn and Arwen. I always have felt for him. He has given so much and has lost so much in the service of Middle Earth, this last thing is hard for him to accept. His heart was hardened by pain but at least in my stories he find a measure of forgiveness both giving and receiving.
I really wanted Arwen to find peace and her mother was ideal for helping her find her heart. Really happy it worked for you!
There is a little more angst in the coming chapters but there is happiness and acceptance as well. This story was pre-pandemic. I wrote a lot more angst in those days. ;-))
Hoping you are well and counting the days to my second shot!
((hugs))
MM
Lindelea
· 30 March 2021
· Chapter 9: A Heart Laid Bare
This was a difficult chapter. I did enjoy the brotherly banter, and I'm very relieved at the resolution.
Looking forward to reading more. ((hugs))
Author's reply
Lindelea!
Yep! As I remember it was an emotional one write as well. I had brought Elrond to such a pass that it was going to take quite an effort on Aragorn's part to get through to him and still have it believable.
The brotherly banter between Elladan, Elohir and Estel (As the twins would always name Aragorn having known him since he was two) is always fun to write though.
Thanks for reading and writing back!
((hugs))
MM
Lindelea
· 29 March 2021
· Chapter 8: Truths are spoken
This is so perfect for Galadriel: She had found a low-slung tree branch that was crying out to be sat upon and there she whiled away the better part of an hour, humming softly songs that she had learned as a young elf about the singing of the earth and the quiet that existed before Time began.
I also like the way she brings Arwen to understanding the impact of her behavior on Estel.
Poor Faramir, caught between a rock and a hard place.
I think perhaps you meant to put in a footnote to explain this: "Gerich veleth nin, ada**? I do so appreciate it when you provide translations for people like me. Elvish simply does not stick in my brain.
Alas, poor Elrond. And yet, he found love, and I think Elves marry for life? So is his long separation from his beloved part of his anguish here? Or maybe remembering the depth of his love, which he has had to set aside until he Sails and is reunited with her, will help him understand and accept his daughter's choice at last?
Author's reply
Lindelea!
I am glad I have pitched Galadriel right. I think of her as serene, joyful but tinged with some sadness because she has seen so much, both happy and tragic. She loves Arwen and Aragorn as well and is trying so hard to guide them well.
I feel for Faramir here. He is loath to cause Arwen even more pain...
And there is a reason Sindarin doesn't stick in your head...Because it is bloody difficult! I did not construct this sentence. It is borrowed from Two Tower film. It means "You have my love, papa." And yes I usually do add a footnote definition but this one slipped past me! Ooops! :-)
Yes! Elves do only marry once. Their loved one wait in the Halls of Mandos in Valinor. And their souls are twinned even after death. (There are two notable exceptions and you do not want to go down those particular rabbitholes).
The pain of separation never really goes away for Elves. Elrond sees the future of Arwen, how she will pine away after Aragorn dies and be alone without her family. I think his pain of separation from Celebrian and Arwen's future pain and the fact as he states that he had given and given to Middle Earth to the future that Elves will not really be a part of. And after giving so much and never asking the cost he will lose the two among those he loves most. It is a little overwhelming for him.
Thanks for reading and writing.
Be safe
((hugs))
MM
Lindelea
· 27 March 2021
· Chapter 7: An Honour Bestowed
So many wonderful details, and you sketch every character so deftly and clearly. They are all believable.
Frodo shook me a little, if only because he gives such a vivid picture of how depression works.
Elanor is a bright-shining little gem.
Looking forward to reading more.
Hope this finds you and yours well. ((hugs))
Author's reply
Lindelea!
Thanks! I work hard at trying to sketch the differences in characters. There is a serious amount of depression that Frodo is dealing with. So happy you are traveling with the journey of this story!
BTW Chapter 12 of "Destiny's Child" is now posted!
Stay safe, Mellon Nin!
(((hugs)))
MM
Author Reply: Also in this story I delighted in writing about an Éowyn who is happy and confident and basking in her husband's love. As I was re-reading it I was happy considering the wringer of sadness she is having to travel through in the writing of "Destiny's Child."
((hugs))
MM
Larner
· 20 May 2020
· Chapter 13: Namarie
I rejoice that all know peace at this time.
Author's reply
Larner!
All knew peace and like Gandalf says "All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us." Frodo was changed. The time of the Elves was over. But we go on.
Thank you for reading through the entire story again after so long! It is so appreciated!
Stay safe. Mellon nin!
((hugs))
MM
Author Reply: Larner!
Hello! Not sure if you will see this. But I haven't heard from Lindelea (Jean) in a month. That was via email. Do you know if she is OK. Just wondering.
MM (Celeste)
Larner
· 19 May 2020
· Chapter 12: Changes
The moment of decision must come at last....
Author's reply
Larner!
Yes! Some hard truths had to be faced. The Ring War ended well but that is different from ending happily.
MM
Larner
· 19 May 2020
· Chapter 11: What grace is given me...
I rejoice that they can have such a ceremony after the uncertainty of the child's birth.
Author's reply
Larner!
So very true! I really wanted a celebration filled with joy after such uncertainty! very glad you like it!
MM
Larner
· 18 May 2020
· Chapter 10: Three Prayers to the Valar
A difficult thing,to return to face the pain. But Elrond found his heart once more, and there is joy in the new day.
Author's reply
Larner!
"But Elrond found his heart once more." What a lovely way to sum it all up. SO true. Elrond admitting he was mistaken allowed life to flow in his heart once again, preparing for joy. Glad you liked it!
Hope you and your are well.
((hugs)) And thank you for writing!
MM
Larner
· 17 May 2020
· Chapter 9: A Heart Laid Bare
It's about bloody time! At least he's finally allowing his heart to overrule his pride.
Author's reply
Larner!
LOL! Yep! Those part Noldorin, part Sindarin Elves can be SO stubborn, especially when their pride is wounded! I remember when I was writing this I had painted Elrond into such a corner that it was going to take a major effort to get him crack to make it believable. Thanks for taking the time to write!
Stay safe! Mellon nin!
((hugs))
MM
Larner
· 13 May 2020
· Chapter 8: Truths are spoken
A heavy memory to hold onto, I fear. May there be reconciliation before he leaves Middle Earth, and may he find joy in being reunited with his beloved, so long-lost wife.
Author's reply
Larner!
He will, at least in my story. I always find Elrond heartbreaking. He gives so much to Middle Earth. And loses what he loves most, both Estel and Arwen.
I've thought about writing about the reunion between Elrond and Celebrian but I just don't think I could do justice to the story.
Thanks for taking the time to write!
((hugs))
MM
Larner
· 8 May 2020
· Chapter 7: An Honour Bestowed
I rejoice Frodo knows such joy this day, and that all are enjoying themselves.
Author's reply
Larner!
I really wanted to give him some just pure happiness in the story. Thanks for taking the time to write!
MM
Larner
· 7 May 2020
· Chapter 6: Of Cures and Competition
The quote is strictly from the movie, as in the book the only Elf to fight at Helms Deep was Legolas. Wonderful bow work, worthy of Robin Hood!
Larner
· 7 May 2020
· Chapter 6: Of Cures and Competition
The quote is strictly from the movie, as in the book the only Elf to fight at Helms Deep was Legolas. Wonderful bow work, worthy of Robin Hood!
Author's reply
Larner!
True, the Elves in the book were fighting their own battles up in the north as both Lorien and Mirkwood were attacked by Sauron's northern army. But in the Two Towers it really does make for pretty cool film watching.
I did enjoy writing the competition. It is structured loosely on the archery competitions I took part in at University.
thanks for reading!
Stay safe.
MM
Larner
· 6 May 2020
· Chapter 5: The Green Dragon Awaits
Love the indications of the history of the place, the dents, bumps, and carved initials and the like. And now they are all headed for Bag End much the worse for overmuch ale! Legolas will never live down his lack of proficiency with a potato peeler!
Author's reply
Larner!!
LOL! Too many years spent in fine old English pubs. Spent many a pint in Pubs in Stratford that have been around since the early 1600s. I just imagine the Green Dragon being one of those! Ah memories, but I digress. :-))
And No, I don't believe Gimli will ever let Legolas live down his lack of proficiency with a potato peeler! And Celeborn has learned the useful talent of how to peel carrots! LOL!
Suffice to say, it was a really fun chapter to write!
Thanks again!
Stay safe! ((hugs))
MM
Larner
· 5 May 2020
· Chapter 4: Renewal in a Shire Spring
At least they are beginning to communicate again, which is always hopeful. Galadriel is right in her counsel, as is Faramir. He has two whose advice he can always count upon.
Author's reply
Larner!
Hello! Thanks for taking the time to write! You're right. Communication is very important. But good advice is not always easy to take.
MM
Lindelea
· 24 April 2020
· Chapter 6: Of Cures and Competition
An Elanor alarm clock! Used to marvellous effect by certain wives... evil wives, at that, considering that it is the morning after the night before...
I chuckled aloud at this, and the dog got excited: "My liege, I love you and will protect you all the days of my life, but do that again and I will kill you where you stand."
Celeborn sounds very Tookish here: To pull the bow in the service of others is an privilege hard fought for, to pull the bow well is to honour one's realm and people. The lighter side of this honour does tend to lend itself to not a small degree of arrogance on our part in all matters of shooting. Perhaps I will borrow a bit of your portrayal of him when Farry and Ferdi are on their way to Gondor.
(Did Haldir die in the book version too, or was that only the film version? I remember finding it jarring when I watched the film, but then, that might have been because Elves did not fight at Helm's Deep in the book, from my recollection.)
I love your recounting of the archery tournament! I especially loved the following quoted bit, that reminds me of that altered state I've felt when in the zone, when the world falls away, where every move is both unthinking (because it's so beautifully choreographed and drilled into muscle memory) and deliberate at the same time, and even breathing becomes part of the dance... I can still remember that feeling, though it has been many years now.
He saw the Wood Elf as he had seen him many times in battle, a calm grace had settled over him which honed an inner focus so acute that nothing could stand in his way as he sought to bring down his quarry. He saw Legolas take aim, hold and then release in a movement fluid yet powerful. He did not even have to wait for the report. Legolas had found his target.
I love Legolas and Gimli, have I mentioned that?
What fun! Nicely done.
Hope this finds you and yours well. ((hugs))
Author's reply
Lindelea!
At the time I was writing this originally I was more influenced by the films rather than the books, because they were so recently released. In the book the Elves do not fight at Helm's Deep. They were still in the north fighting in Mirkwood and Lothlorien. The ROTK appendices talk about the battles in the North, Dale, Erebor, Mirkwood and Lorien but Peter Jackson filmwise could not split his focus and show this so he brought the Elves to Helm's Deep. I don't think Haldir dies but he does not take ship for the West either. He is too attached to Middle Earth. I read that somewhere in the Legendarium but I do not remember where.
The Elanor alarm clock!!! yup! Evil wife pay back for not being able to join in the fun!!
"My liege, I love you and will protect you all the days of my life, but do that again and I will kill you where you stand." LOL! Faramir is a man with a really bad hangover! LOL! having been there many times in my youth I could write this scene from real life experience!
All my archery scenes are written from my love of archery and archery competitions. There is truly nothing, as you say, quite like pulling a bow. It is a wonderful, beautiful experience and when you have let fly the perfect shoot and are "in the zone when the world falls away" yeah.... I haven't shot in years and I miss it. Both my husband and I shoot longbow and recurve. I miss it. I see you have shot as well. That feeling never really leaves the soul.
"Celeborn sounds very Tookish here: To pull the bow in the service of others is an privilege hard fought for, to pull the bow well is to honour one's realm and people. The lighter side of this honour does tend to lend itself to not a small degree of arrogance on our part in all matters of shooting. Perhaps I will borrow a bit of your portrayal of him when Farry and Ferdi are on their way to Gondor." Please do! The Shire is having quite the effect on Celeborn.
Hope you and yours are well. Stay Safe.
((virtual hugs))
MM
sue
· 24 April 2020
· Chapter 13: Namarie
A wonderful story and a clever way to get everyone together. Thank you
I would like to suggest that you get a more skilled beta reader. There were too many words used incorrectly which is jarring and interrupts the flow of the reading.
In particular is the phrase attributed to Pippin: get out of Dodge
Get (the hell) out of Dodge To leave or depart from a place, especially quickly or with marked urgency. A reference to Dodge City, Kansas, the clichéd setting of cowboy and western films from the early to mid-1900s.
The meaning is clear, but such an anachronism!
Thank you for much reading pleasure!
Author's reply
Sue!
Thank you so much for reading and then writing! I really wanted to write a story with "family reunion" flavour.
This was one of my earliest stories I did go through it again recently but some things just simply through.
So glad that you liked the story! Yeah!
To tell true about the "Get out of Dodge" phrase I never knew the origin history of that phrase. I do try to not use modern parlance in my stories or things with a very defined sound, but you learn something every day! I will steer clear of it from now on! :-) Thanks!
MM
Lindelea
· 20 April 2020
· Chapter 5: The Green Dragon Awaits
"The Green Dragon Awaits" - such a promising chapter title! Even though it's nearly noon, my thoughts go to heading out to the pub for a proper breakfast. But I will have to settle for making one here with the supplies on hand. Let's see... we have eggs and beans and bread and bacon... and I may have a can of tomatoes secreted away somewhere... And yes, not forgetting no butter on the bread. I ran across a recipe for a buttery spread made from palm oil and olive oil, and I'm thinking of trying it. But simply brekkie (I don't know if that's how it's spelt, but that's how people say it around here sometimes) will be enough of an effort today.
(Pardon the spelling, it's what my spell chequer is set to for my last job, and I haven't changed it back to "US" yet. But it gives me a nice homely feeling for all that, considering my version of LOTR is in UK English...)
But back to reading.
Sudden thought... is this one of those happy AUs where Frodo doesn't sail away? Dreamflower's Eucatastrophe comes to mind, and I know there are others. I even wrote one once, though in good conscience, I had to provide a way of healing his anniversary illnesses in order to do that.
Oh my, so hobbity to remember tragedy by turning it into a joyful celebration. (And I love Gandalf with baby Elanor, accepting the flower with such gravity. Some of the greatest treasures I ever received were wilted dandelions with hardly any stems.)
How lovely to catch a glimpse of Shadowfax. That horse has a special place in my heart. (Though yet to be published.) And the mental pictures of him nosing at Frodo's pockets, and the baby on his back as he ambles along, are simply delightful.
Legolas on KP! I just laughed out loud. And the Lord and Lady of Light into the bargain! Hidden talents! (No wonder they call Celeborn one of the wisest Elves in Middle-earth. Indeed. I never quite understood how he stayed behind when Galadriel sailed, though I guess he followed her eventually. I wonder if anyone has written a gapfiller about that? Was it to support his grandsons and granddaughter after their father sailed?)
Ah, yes, the glimpse JRRT gave us of Rosie makes her sound eminently in character here. "in a voice that said that was exactly where she wanted them to end up." Haha! Wonderful. And the thought of orcs fleeing before her.
Beregond! Woohoo!
sitting inebriates. tormentor of vegetables. Hops in the Barrel! (And Gimli and Legolas. Priceless.)
(and now my review threatens to be longer than the chapter itself, so I will desist. until my next reading session.)
Author's reply
Lindelea!
I truly had a wonderful time writing this chapter as I remember! As I lived in England for almost eight years I still sometimes used UK spellings for things and when writing fanfic I often tell my spellchecker to accept UK spellings! My spelling does seem stuck somewhere over the Atlantic! LOL!
This is not an AU. Frodo will go to the Undying Lands. My friend Baggins Babe did write extensively on that AU front but alas I did not.
I did love Gandalf rebuking Shadowfax, "like a common packhorse." said said with gruff affection. :-))
Legolas and his battle with potatoes and Celeborn being instructed/ scolded by Rosie were pictures I could not wise but the Shire was having quite the effect on Celeborn, normally reticent, is downright jovial and accepting! And Galadriel is apparently good at everything! Celeborn fic about why? Hmmmm! Intriguing.....
Rosie knows what is good for her brood and is very protective as I see it. The Green Dragon Ahhh!! Is reflective of so many good nights spent in pubs with friends. That section just wrote itself. "Hops in a Barrel" is the Middle Earth variant on a drinking game I used to play called "Sink the Ship" But Hobbits are not generally a sea-faring people, so it became "Hops in a Barrel" the rules are the same though! :-)
So happy you are reading this story. I do think you will enjoy the rest. Plenty of Angst which I can't seem to write these days.
Stay safe and stir clear of the pernicious butter. No cheese. Oooo! That's rough!
(((virtual hugs)))
MM
Larner
· 12 April 2020
· Chapter 3: Emotions Arise
Such wounded pride has destroyed so many once_happy families.
Lindelea must have just missed your comment. She is still doing well, along with the family and the beasts.
MybAragorn comes of age story is Enterthe Ranger, and is on this site.
Author's reply
Larner!
I have something of a soft spot for Elrond. He has given so much to Middle Earth and so much has been taken. And he is asked to give this last thing, it is very difficult. And yes, it is his pride that is wounded. But he is hurting.
I saw Lindelea's comments later! Thanks for responding though. In these times I worry.
Thanks for taking the time to write!
Stay Safe!
MM
Author Reply: I shall check out "Enter the Ranger!"
Larner
· 12 April 2020
· Chapter 2: Together again
A naughty trick, but appropriate.
Author's reply
Larner!
I love trying to show Aragorn's lighter, more jovial side.
MM
Larner
· 12 April 2020
· Chapter 1: Sun Star
So sweet a child. I regret Sam is fighting the truth of Frodo's condition.
Author's reply
Larner!
Hello! Yes, Elanor is really the only one who can really take Frodo out of himself.
Yes, Sam is having a hard time facing reality. He will but it will take time.
MM
Lindelea
· 7 April 2020
· Chapter 4: Renewal in a Shire Spring
I love Celeborn's method of breaking the ice! Oh! And "with the help of her lady's soil" and realizing that he was in the presence of that very Lady!!!
(But poor Arwen! Hopefully her fears will quickly be resolved.)
I like Rumil, he has his priorities in order (retrieving the forgotten cask!)
Little Elanor is certainly the charmer...
The scene between Aragorn and Faramir is so well done. I definitely like your Faramir, even to his only taking orders from his king.
Oo! Aragorn's going to talk to Elrond? That ought to be interesting.
And ahhh. sigh of satisfaction at Arwen and Aragorn finally talking openly and honestly and soothing each other's fears.
Author's reply
Lindelea!
Hello! Yep the Shire Spring is making Celeborn feel far younger than his more than 6,000 years (more actually, I think he MAY have been born during the years of the Trees before the first age, either that or Galadriel is a cougar marrying a far younger elf!
I just thought it was a fun way to break the ice as the Shire Spring is having a rejuvenating effect on Celeborn.
Arwen will go through a little more trauma before she comes through, but she will come through.
Rumil (who I recall reading somewhere in canon is Haldir's brother) definitely has his priorities in order!! Always remember the Ale!!
Little Elanor brings light and life to all who know her.
Thanks for the comments on my Faramir, though it is partially the book and partially David Wenham's wonderful portrayal that inspires. Which is why, though I know in the book that Faramir is supposed to have dark hair and grey eyes, but when I think of Faramir I see David Wenham's blue eyes and reddish blond hair. I am visually influenced when I write. And yes, Faramir does only take his lead from Aragorn, such is his respect for his king.
Aragorn will indeed talk with Elrond. In a later chapter.
Aragorn and Arwen still have a little rockiness to come but they have at least made a start. They both love each other so much that they think to protect each other and that is what is pulling them apart. But all does resolve.
Yeah! This response was a little long I know, but I was feeling chatty! :-)
Stay safe!
((virtual hugs))
MM
Lindelea
· 5 April 2020
· Chapter 3: Emotions Arise
Aargh. (Elrond)
I love the conversation between G. and C. "Shoot him."
And sneaky twins!
(In haste; I'm up way past my bedtime.)
Hope you are staying well.
Author's reply
Lindelea!
Yup! We are well so far. (touch wood)
And yes Elrond is being a putz right now! I did also really that conversation between Celeborn and Galadriel.
I re-read this chapter and when I was finished I looked at the word count and realised it was over 7000 words!!!!! First I said "Eeek!" And then I split it into two chapters!
Stay safe! and get to bed, woman!! :-) ((virtual hugs))
MM
Lindelea
· 2 April 2020
· Chapter 2: Together again
Starting off the chapter with a hobbity meal, including appropriate topics for talk, is genius! Sets the stage, so to speak, for the arriving visitors.
"If you can call ever-present danger, unyielding pressure and not knowing whether each day was going to be your last simple, then yes, it was much less complicated." Arwen gently teased. Ah. Those were the good old days. Hah!
Ah, Arwen. What a difficult choice she has made. Here's hoping the babe's arrival will salve her aching heart.
Hmmm. I wonder if little Boromir takes after his namesake in laying waste to his surroundings. Considering that Uncle Boromir was Captain-General of Gondor, and took part in various battles, somehow I can imagine this.
Beregond! And the joke! He fits right in with hobbitry.
What fun! I am looking forward to reading more.
Author's reply
Lindelea!
Hello! I re-read the chapter because I haven't read it in a while! I did have a lot of fun writing it!
I've started both the driving storylines of the story. the second in this chapter. How both Arwen and Frodo deal with the choices they made during the Ring War. There will be Angst in later chapters but there will also be fun.
I'm glad you are enjoying my writing of Beregond and the Hobbits. Not my usual writing stomping grounds but I wanted to bring almost all together for my friends birthday!
I hope you continue to enjoy! I have two chapters of my latest story ready to go!!
Be well! Stay Safe.
MM
Author Reply: And I decided to change little Boromir's name to Elboron as it was the listed as the name of Faramir's son. But that doesn't change the fact that he is a rambunctious little hellion. So yeah! Kinda like Boromir!!
MM
Lindelea
· 31 March 2020
· Chapter 1: Sun Star
Aha-ha-ha! This first chapter is a delight from start to finish!
Sam, making time to garden because it brings comfort to Frodo. Rosie, seeing more clearly, and unable to get her husband to see what she sees.
Little Elanor! I love Frodo's buzzing like a bee.
"And that can only be a good thing, don't you think?" Ha! That's the Pippin I know and love, for sure. And he and Merry have got their priorities in order, it seems.
Gimli and Legolas. "I can't take him anywhere." And Legolas with the "little princess", how precious, and rings true with the Elvish regard for children.
Thank you, this was a lovely respite! I'm looking forward to reading more.
Author's reply
Lindelea!
Yeah!! So happy you've enjoyed it. I really had great fun writing it.
I originally wrote it for a friend (Baggins Babe, my friend Val,) she had quite the thing for Elijah Wood at the time! and had been going through a very rough patch in her life at the time FOTR came out. In fact watching the film in the theatre at the time was the only time she would relax and forget about her troubles. So as a consequence I saw FOTR literally 20 times in 4 months. And you know I never once grew weary of seeing it. The mark of a truly great film)
Enjoy!
Stay safe!
MM