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With Hope and Without Hope  by docmon 4 Review(s)
Thundera TigerReviewed Chapter: 4 on 5/26/2008
Ooo, I have to hold up this phrase for special commendation:

Aragorn’s doubts eased a bit with the glimpse of elvish mettle.

VERY nice. That sentence wasn't in its current form in the drafts, and while I enjoyed the drafts, I have to admit that I like this much better. Wow, I really like that phrase. Something about it just energizes the entire passage. I think it's the word "mettle." For some reason, it suggests action to me, which just gets everything going again.

On another note, once more, the brief hints of "sport" that you give are perfect. Not too much, but not too little, either. As the story goes on, you get a bit more specific as to what exactly is happening to our heroes, but it's like you're easing us into it. And I think that's the best way to do it, too. It lets our imaginations run wild, and then you slowly take back control once you've got us thinking for you. Oh, you are a devious creature, aren't you? Sweet chapter as usual, Docmon!

Author Reply: Hm, I don't know what form that phrase was in when you saw it. I have a feeling it underwent a number of permutations before I settled on that wording. Hehe, I must say, I did like the sound of "elvish mettle" for some reason. Couldn't get it out of the brain once it took hold. I really wasn't sure if it wasn't overdoing it on some level. So thanks for the encouraging words!
Hints of sport, well, I hope people feel eased into it. The easy ride is pretty much over...
Thank you, Thundera!

LarnerReviewed Chapter: 4 on 5/19/2008
The chance must come soon. The orcs' sport chills us all, I think. Now, if Merry and Pippin can think of something!

Author Reply: bwahahahahaha...

CairistionaReviewed Chapter: 4 on 5/18/2008
The suspense continues to build ... and in such a unique way, since this is sort of "familiar ground", being a twist on canon like it is. Pippin's impetuous attempt to escape and Aragorn's demand for water are both so in character. And elvish mettle indeed! I can't wait to see how they get Legolas free to attempt a rescue.

Author Reply: Oh, thank you, Cairistiona! If you find this a unique story (though I know the scenario has been done before), I'm doubly thrilled. Also pleased to hear you feel Pippin and Aragorn are in character. I really worked for that.
Stay tuned for more elvish mettle!

meckinockReviewed Chapter: 4 on 5/18/2008
I like Pippin's spirit, even in the face of grief and what looks like certain failure. Stupid orcs, letting their prisoners die of thirst. I'm glad Aragorn decided to fill them in before it was too late.

Author Reply: LOL Thanks, meckinock! Yes, those orcs are not known for their intelligence. And Pippin, well, he's a hobbit through and through, isn't he?

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