Dot
· 7 February 2004
· Chapter 3: A Magical Moment
Just time for a quickie review, I’m afraid. Internet access is a little restricted these days…
Elisiel and Gimli still seem to be getting on well – I like the idea that they have a similar sense of humour. Gimli needs some friendly faces in this strange place, and I imagine Elisiel is more than eager to get to know her son’s friend and learn everything that happened in the time since she has been parted from him.
It’s great to see Gandalf! It seems that Gimli is quite happy to see someone who isn’t an elf!
I love the mention of the hobbits. You really let their personalities shine through, even though Gandalf says very little of them. Especially Sam – I had to smile at the thought of how happy he was to see Frodo again and so enthralled by everything that he even built a talan! I can just imagine how amused Frodo was.
It was a really striking image of Celebrian desperate to know of her family and Elisiel holding her son’s hand, knowing how difficult it is to speak of those he loved and lost. I really feel for Celebrian. It must have been so hard for her. From the way you wrote it, I get the impression that she had almost been trying not to ask, sitting by as Elrond asked about the events of Middle-earth but eventually being unable to contain herself any longer to the point where she is perhaps unable to even realise the depth of Legolas’ grief, so great is her own. And what an amazing gift her sons sent to her. It’s one of such great love and shows just how strong a connection there is between elves and their parents, making it all the more heartbreaking when they are apart.
I loved the closing conversation between Legolas and Gimli. To the dwarf, Gandalf is still the same person that he always was. Just Gandalf. But Legolas sees deeper than that and understands the power that he possesses, that he is always seen just as he wants to be. It’s a nice reminder not to get too comfortable with him, that there’s always more to him than we might think.
Author's reply
Gandalf is offering Gimli support by keeping his 'usual' appearance andhe is aided well by Elisiel, who has taken a liking to her son's friend.
It is a sad and difficult time for Celebrian, to sit quietly while Elrond and Legolas didcuss those she left behind, and the relatives she will never meet. Legolas understands Elladan and Elrohir's feeling well, for he suffered the same loss as they, and so is only too pleased to act as messenger.
Gandalf always was a bit of an enigma, and that has not changed :)
Fadesintothewest
· 7 February 2004
· Chapter 4: Bittersweet Moments
I simply love your stories Jenolas and this chapter was truly bittersweet. I feel much the same way. I just came back from seeing FOTR and seeing Peter Jackson speak on LOTR. It was great and my friends and I loved it but it was bittersweet as I did not get to share it with my family who are huge fans like myself. Maybe that's why getting home and reading this chapter really made me tear up... It's just amazing the bonds of friendship that Lord of the Rings creates, it has truly reached into so much of our world, and that's really why I felt it when Legolas cried at the Hobbits' grave. Thanks for this great chapter!
Author's reply
Thank you, I appreciate hearing you like my work.
Lucky you! I imagine it was quite a thrill to hear PJ speak and answer questions.
I also like the strong friendships that develop in LoTR, quite subtley for the most part. On some level, Legolas was aware he would see the demise of all the members of the Fellowship, and seeing the Hobbit's resting place made him feel grief and sorrow that mortality exists even in Valinor and includes his best friend.
Elf messenger
· 4 February 2004
· Chapter 3: A Magical Moment
Your story is very good.I like how you portray all of the characters. Keep up the good work!
Namarie.
Elf messenger
Author's reply
Glad you like it so far, thanks.
Bejai
· 4 February 2004
· Chapter 3: A Magical Moment
What a delightful story! I always enjoy stories that take us to Valinor, and I'm especially enjoying seeing it from Gimli's POV. His gruffness is so endearing! Lovely writing, interesting plot points, wonderful images. Looking forward to more.
Author's reply
I am finding it interesting to try and write from Gimli's perspective and I am glad my effort is appreciated. If he is sometimes frustrated by Legolas's behaviour, just imagine how much harder it would be for him to deal with a whole land full of like minded Elves!
LKK
· 4 February 2004
· Chapter 3: A Magical Moment
I love the idea that Gandalf appears as elf to Legolas but as the same old Gandalf to Gimli. Is this idea one of your own? It's very clever regardless of who thought of it.
I was as amused as Frodo at the idea of Sam building a talan. I recall that he didn't much like being on the flet in Lothlorien. Sam must have really been taken with the elves in Valinor to have built one for himself. I bet it wasn't very high off the ground though. LOL
The twins' message to Celebrian was a beautiful moment, jenolas. Very touching and sweet. Well done!
LKK
Author's reply
As far as I am aware, the idea of Gandalf being able to appear in as 'himself' to Gimli, but as an elf to the others is mine. I do not recall having read it anywhere else, although I guess there is so much fanfiction around that someone else might also have used the idea.
A I think that as he grew older, Sam might have been a little more willing to try something he once was not fond of..especially anything to do with Elves once he arrived in Valinor. (Maybe Gandalf or Frodo or one of the Elves dared him to do it? :)
Glad you liked the message. Thanks for your kind words.
Dot
· 2 February 2004
· Chapter 2: First Meeting
Galadriel really is going out of her way to make Gimli feel welcome. I suppose she can read his apprehension and realises that others may not welcome him so willingly, so at least his first few moments in this new land were pleasurable.
It’s such a wonderful image of Gimli sitting under the tree, puffing away and regaling the elves with rather embellished tales! It seems that all he needs are a few indulgent listeners and he’ll be happy….
“Then perhaps instead of shamelessly flirting with your friend’s wife you should consider seeking one of your own”. LOL! It looks like Elisiel has found an ally! She’s very perceptive, isn’t she? I like the way she immediately knows the difficult relationship her husband and Gimli would have. She knows exactly what Thranduil is like but clearly sees that Gimli would not have given in to him very easily either. I love the way she displays such a fierce loyalty to Thranduil and warns Gimli not to show any disrespect. There’s a layer of strength to her that isn’t immediately obvious. I thought it was interesting too that Gimli feels he can understand her because he finds her so like her son, and he knows Legolas almost as well as the elf’s family do. I love that once she has issued her warning, Elisiel ensures that Gimli knows that she values him and welcomes him. He may have been envying Legolas his mother’s loving arms earlier but it looks like she is more than willing to extend her love to someone so cherished by her son.
The conversation between Galadriel and Legolas was fascinating. Of course he still grieves for Aragorn, and I imagine that he will have to deal with that now that he has time to think about all that has happened, but I never thought about how he’d feel about Arwen. I can’t tell you how touching it is that he made sure that Arwen was not alone on her final journey. It’s such an act of friendship and love. Like I say, I hadn’t thought about it but I can see why Legolas felt guilty. Although, he probably knew that he could never have brought her to Valinor but in his despair he just needed someone to tell him. Just as Galadriel was able to reassure him that Thranduil would eventually sail to them. Do we get to see Legolas’ first meeting with Elrond?! I’d love to see that…;)
Author's reply
Yes, Legolas had best beware of the 'alliance' between Elisiel and Gimli! :)
As you say, Elisiel knows her husband well, and is prepared to overlook the 'difficulties' that likely exist between Thranduil and Gimli.
As for Arwen, I like to think that she and Legolas were friends, and when he learned of her final plans, and his attempt to dissuade her from going alone failed, he ensured her safety as best he could. I think the Rangers were only too willing to see their Queen arrived safely at her final destination, but I imagine Legolas would have followed her himself, had not his own grief and the sea longing taken hold.
Galadriel has a compassionate heart, to my mind, and that combined with her insight, gives her the words to reassure Legolas. He will speak with Elrond, but at least she can make the way a little easier for him.
Dot
· 2 February 2004
· Chapter 1: The Seafarers Arrive
Hi! Sorry, I was away for a few days – I haven’t abandoned your wonderful stories! Firstly, I just wanted to say thanks for your replies to my last few reviews of “Immortal Friends” – you’re so kind!
This is great – I know you had hinted at some of the times Legolas and Gimli had together in Valinor in ‘Family’ (I’m thinking of the right story, aren’t I??), but I’m delighted we get a further glimpse here.
What a wonderful sense of Legolas’ excitement and sheer delight. He seems to be full of high spirits again and I think anyone who read “Immortal Friends” will really appreciate that. It says a lot for the friendship between Legolas and Gimli as well that the dwarf would feel such pleasure at the thought of Legolas’ happiness, despite the fact that he is suffering on this trip and must be more than a little apprehensive at what Valinor will hold for him.
I love the teasing between the two of them – you really do write their relationship so well. Poor Gimli seemed totally intrigued by the lady whom Legolas had apparently neglected to mention before!
It’s a lovely idea that the ship needs no guidance to find its way safely to the harbour.
I’m so glad Galadriel and Tathar made the effort to welcome Gimli so openly and eagerly. I like the way Gimli and Tathar seem so close that Gimli knows the kind of reassurance Tathar wants regarding Legolas’ well-being. I have to admit that I’m relieved as well that Tathar and Mirieth are happy again and seem to have found some peace. I’m really looking forward to seeing what’s in store for Legolas;)
Author's reply
You are most welcome, Dot.
Yes, "Family" is the story you are thinking of, but this is more of a follow on to "Immortal Friends" in that Tathar is present. However, your are correct to think that this tale is more about Gimli and Legolas, and their last years together.
I am pleased you like the way I write their friendship, it is an aspect of the books that realy appeals to me... two so different building a strong and lasting friendship.
I hope you continue to enjoy it
jenolas
LKK
· 31 January 2004
· Chapter 2: First Meeting
A blushing dwarf! Who would ever have thought a simple kiss would cause our blustery friend to blush? Delightful! :-)
Very sweet of Legolas to arrange for Arwen's safe passage to her final resting place. I'm sure Elrond and Celebrian will appreciate his concern for her. I can understand, though, why he would not wish to speak with them at this time. But will we see him meet them eventually?
Speaking of meeting people, I hope we see a reunion with Gandalf soon. Perhaps later in the evening when the celebrations begin?
Looking forward to the next chapter!
Author's reply
I think dear Gimli has no defense against shyness when offered affection by lovely Elf Ladies. *grin*
Yes, Legolas does need to speak with Elrond and Celbrian and of course Gandalf will make an appearance... the Istar would never miss the pleasure of attending a party, now would he?
Elf messenger
· 28 January 2004
· Chapter 1: The Seafarers Arrive
That is so cute. I like your story. You show the relationship between Legolas and Gimli very well. I can't wait to read your next chapter! Keep up the good work!
Namarie.
Elf messenger
Author's reply
I will certainly try!
Nikara
· 27 January 2004
· Chapter 1: The Seafarers Arrive
Very sweet and very well done so far. It was touching having Legolas see his mother again! Great job.
Author's reply
Thanks, I hope you enjoy the rest of the story as well.
Rous
· 27 January 2004
· Chapter 1: The Seafarers Arrive
Please hurry the next chapter. I liked this alot. Very well written.