mystarlight · 26 July 2018 · Chapter 1: Beginnings
I am mesmerized by the plot and characters of your story. Thank you
Far Horizons by Bodkin
Reviews (178)
Freyalyn · 3 October 2015 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
What a wonderful story - and it's a novel in size too. I have been happily immersed in this for hours and hours over the last couple of days. Thank you so much for sharing it.
Glory Bee · 22 January 2012 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
Bodkin this entire series has been heartrendingly beautiful and though I wept many tears while reading many scenes, yet I am sad to have it ended.
Haleth · 22 March 2006 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
I very much enjoyed this story. The descriptions are lovely but never so overdone as to be intrusive. The conversations are delightful, especially the bantering between Celeborn and Thranduil whilst discussing Galadriel and the exchanges between Elladan and Elrohir. There are plenty of plot twists to keep the reader attentive. I especially liked the bond that exists between the Sylvan elves and the forest, how the trees sing to them while the other elves are not as attuned to the woods. It is really good to see the bond of elvish matrimony treated as a boon. All of the canon characters stay in character. The only tiny disappointment was that Finrod failed to make an appearance. It would be interesting to see how he and his little sister interact. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of your stories. Haleth
Author's reply
Thank you! I'm so pleased you enjoyed this. In some ways it was by far my biggest project so far - with the most action! In my head Celeborn and Thranduil spent quite a few of the intervening years before they sailed in Lasgalen - and it (together with Galadriel's absence) enabled them to build a good relationship. And the twins are just great to write - they keep all the serious stuff hidden behind a mask of light-hearted banter and let very few people in on their deeper thoughts. The Silvan elves, I'm sure, must have more of a bond with trees. Tolkien did seem to make the different kindreds have natural interest in different areas. I think the sons of Elrond could be more inclined to trees than many non-Silvan elves, too - after all, they are Celeborn's grandsons. Elvish matrimony is canon! And elves aren't going to be tom-catting around - it doesn't fit with their nature. They are bound by more than words and rings and they are together long enough to have deep understanding of each other. And I'm glad you think the characters stay in character. Finrod - well, there was already a cast of thousands! He does make it into various other stories - Ripe for Change has him in it. And even Orodreth is featuring in something I'm doing now! I'm glad you're enjoying the stories!
Haleth · 18 March 2006 · Chapter 14: Loyalties
Wonderful! The action is quick paced and clearly described. And the conversation between Celeborn and Galadriel just has me in stiches! All of Celeborn's fretting over her reaction was for nothing. Galadriel assuring him she would take good care of his guards. She conceeds to his wishes without yielding in the least.
Author's reply
Thank you! This comment The action is quick paced and clearly described is delightful because I do feel that action is not my strength! I'm happier indulging myself with description - and I love doing conversation. And I am very fond of Galadriel and Celeborn - I think they have such a deep love and understanding of each other. And they can manage each other perfectly.
Haleth · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 5: Getting There
I am really enjoying this story. It's a long way from perfect with all of the tension between those who never left Aman and those who remained in Middle-earth, the Sylvan elves and the Noldor, but conflict does make things interesting. And now there is an unknown group of people already in the forest. I'm looking forward to reading the rest.
Author's reply
Everything I wrote before this was single-chapter - or only just longer than that, but appeared in one go - and I wanted to see if I could do longer. And it's the same thought that I cannot imagine everyone dropping all those resentments. Those who had never left Aman would have difficulty imagining the danger of Sauron - and those who arrived in the west would be bound to look on the natives as rather self-satisfied. I do think there would have been conflict. Very polite conflict on the whole, perhaps. The unknown elves in the forest.... Yes. Well, I'm sure that that is the way that some elves would have dealt with the problems! I hope you continue to enjoy the story.
Inglor · 19 April 2005 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
Again, incredible story. You have singlehandedly disavowed so many fandom opinions. Thranduil as meanie, Finarfin as a weakling, Celeborn as an oaf, Galadriel as a uberbitch. And so much sex... I like how you handled it, made them randy elves and still being PG. And it wasn't missed either. No holes, no OOC, the OC's small but interesting contributions. I'm just sorry it has taken me so long to find you. I so thoroughly enjoyed your characterizations of Galadriel and Thranduil. The Finarfin/Galadriel/Earwen/Celeborn sideline was most enjoyable (I am on retainer for the House of Finarfin). As said retainer, my only dissapointment was the lack of a Finrod appearence but not much, I completely understand with so many other characters, Finrod would have been superfluous. Again, thank you for writing this, it has been a most enjoyable trip. Inglor
Author's reply
Thank you so much! And inference is so much more fun when it comes to elves and amorous activity! After all, if you know what they're doing, it's more fun to imagine it, and if you don't, the more subtle the better! I'm glad you like the characterisations - I'm growing increasingly fond of all these people. Some, like Finarfin and Earwen, insisted they wanted to be in the story and came in part way through. I wrote this because I didn't think I could sustain a full length story - and intended it to be about 20 chapters, only to have it stretch to 29. I haven't had time to do anything so long since. Maybe this summer. Thank you for reading and commenting. It's great to know someone has enjoyed the story. (Finrod, eh? I'll have to think about that. I'm still trying to get Galadriel and Thranduil in a room without them behaving in a way that would get elflings sent to their room.)
Inglor · 18 April 2005 · Chapter 14: Loyalties
Great story (sorry to be cliche' but it's the truth) Love Celeb and Glad. I like how you have them as long lost lovers making up for lost time but still being CELEBORN and GALADRIEL. Formerly the two of the most powerful beings in Arda.
Author's reply
Thank you. I enjoyed writing this - although it did run away with me a bit! And I do love Celeborn and Galadriel - being tough, experienced, resilient, but also full of humour and love for each other. They were about the oldest and most powerful elves in Arda - and now they are surrounded by the elders (I wonder what they think of that!) - but they are still full of power!
lwarren · 14 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
WHEWWWWWWW! *fans self hurriedly* What a wonderful reunion! I cannot review this the way I want to, as I must leave...may have to revisit tonight when I have more time...but I just had to say that Thranduil is being so sensitive and thoughtful of Laerwen's feelings, and Laerwen, bless her heart, says "hush up, big boy, and COME HERE!" LOL Wonderful stuff, and a perfect way to end! linda
Author's reply
Aw, thank you. I hope much was suggested in the minds of the less naive, but in an innocuous way. (Which I find more fun that anything too direct.) I think Thranduil would be worried about being too demanding - (I'm trying carefully to avoid all words that could be interpreted as double entendre, but it's not easy) - and that maybe the first moves towards action would have to come from Laerwen. It had to end here, or it could have gone on indefinitely, but I am sure there will be offshoots and follow ups. Thank you also for making this the top review count for any of my chapters or stories ever.
lwarren · 14 September 2004 · Chapter 28: Journey's End
Such a good *sob* ending *sniffsniff* chapter! All these little interactions just waiting around the next sentence to tickle the reader's imagination and/or funny bone! :-) I like the way Finarfin asks Celeborn if he has turned his daughter into a savage, and Celeborn insists he is the reason she is somewhat civilized! HA! Minastan's sentence seemed the best, until that "higher power" the King spoke of could be consulted. Of course, I don't know...the Valar, after all, released Melkor when they thought he'd been rehabbed, and look how that turned out! Calion...I have come to appreciate this young elf...send him my way if Hithien can't rope him *vbg*...and I'm glad he's staying with Thranduil's household. Artamir at last showed some sign of sense by acknowledging his youngest, and Minyariel might actually find some peace in that household in the future. Loved the reunions between the twins and Legolas and their sweeties! So much ROMANCE in the air....*g* Even Elrond and Celebrian had to join in! Favorite lines at this point..."Feel...your daughters are welcoming you." Awwww, Elrohir! Miriwen - "You appear to be slipping, my husband...no injuries...!" Of course, his response to that was great! I liked that Thranduil and Elerrina have united to get Legolas to release his worries...they know him well! And Thranduil..."do you think tomorrow will be too soon?" I'm surprised he waited that long! The very end scene with Galadriel and Celeborn was so hopeful...a new chance to build something better and stronger, without the shadow of evil hovering over them...(we hope Minastan stays put! *???*) GREAT story, Bodkin! I hope you feel led to extend on it somehow..... linda (withdrawal?...I found myself still looking for this one this morning!!! :-( That's my face all day!)
Author's reply
Thank you so much for such a great review - and for making me feel good. I feel Minastan's fate was a bit of a get out, but I really couldn't see what else they could do with him. But I didn't think Galadriel or Thranduil would think much of it. And whilst no Melkor, Minastan is definitely devious enough to put on an act for the nice kind Valar. I suppose Artamir is, in a way, a victim of Minastan like the rest. I don't think I would want to be reconciled with him, but I suppose it would be better than living in an atmosphere of resentment. Calion will be better with Thranduil, who seems to have given him more purpose - and, of course, Hithien will keep him in line. Tarannon could do with a challenge, too. I didn't show Legolas and Elerrina reuniting, because I felt there was a danger of drowning in schmaltz, but I wouldn't have minded being a fly on the wall! Yes, waiting until tomorrow - do you think that shows a lack of enthusiasm? He had to have time to pack and make a few kingly arrangements. I wanted to end with Galadriel and Celeborn - and hope for the future. I want to dive right back into the happy? world of the elves, but everyday slavery calls for a while, I'm afraid.
lwarren · 13 September 2004 · Chapter 27: Anticipation
I am SO behind it is un-laughable! :-( I missed reviewing the end, so I am going to catch up, starting now!!! This was a funny chapter...Legolas refusing the role of elf-model of the year *vbg*, and Haldir being bad as he wants to be *vvbg* and Laerwen having her way with Glorfindel! "I think I've been manipulated..." lol Oh, yes Balrog-slayer, you have been royally had! I think Laerwen was trying to avoid some major future problems - just have things as accomplished facts... oh, you don't like them? ...then you may, of course, MOVE ON!!! :-) Smart elf-queen! I had to grin at the idea of Thranduil being subject to her rule...somehow I don't think either would be satisfied with that! Great chapter...I'm on to the next! linda
Author's reply
Elf-model of the year! I can just see him on the catwalk! Beautiful image. Laerwen having her way with Glorfindel. In a purely platonic sense! She and Glorfindel are both right - get the organisation out of the way before the diplomats arrive. The last thing we want is to give Celeborn, Elrond and, particularly, Thranduil any opportunity to squabble. I think she will be more than happy to let Thranduil resume his role as top-dog in the household. She strikes me as happy to rule her kingdom rather more subtly than Galadriel, who likes to have her authority and power recognised. Thanks for reading. I am suffering such withdrawal symptoms, but I .. must .. do .. some .. work.
Iterildea Turelie Earrinde · 12 September 2004 · Chapter 2: Afield
Ellerina(crowned with stars) is the name of one of the first elves (like Ilmare)from the book The Silmarillion (I do not like to be insulted, I take pride in my dreams) other than that I loved the story, especially when legolas met his mother(Leaerwen's eyes twinkled,I love that part, sounds like a fairy tale!)
Author's reply
I'm glad you enjoyed the story. It must be a huge shock to meet a mother you barely remember, but they have plenty of time to let their relationship grow.
Nilmandra · 11 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
Ah, the final reunion. I am so glad they are together, and Laerwen now has a son, daughter and grandelflings as well. A family reunited, and soon to be at home in their forest. A fine and fitting end... Now, I know you are done...but I miss Glorfindel!!!
Author's reply
You miss Glorfindel? Poor elf, alone there in the forest, surrounded by trees and other males. He could really do with something of interest in his life . . Reunions are fun to do - but they lead on to new possibilities. Thank you for reading and reviewing. I have enjoyed the ride.
Nilmandra · 11 September 2004 · Chapter 28: Journey's End
I read this on lunchbreak at work, but didn't have time to review it - ah, it is sad when real life interferes with hobbies! A number of things I liked in this chapter. First, Minastan - it is hard to know what to do with him. I almost wonder if he shouldn't go spend some time serving Nienna or Lorien, where he might be healed while seeing the pity and mercy they show to those in need. He is tough to know what to do with, yet I do feel pity for him. Finarfin is wise and I am glad you showed him that way - I am also glad that Calion is going to stay with Thranduil's house and travel west. I am equally glad that it appears his family is open to reconciliation. Macar also received just punishment - I like that you separated understanding from justification. Elrohir needed to be with his wife and I am glad he is home. Legolas telling his father; well, Thranduil did not seem to surprised. I look forward to their meeting.
Author's reply
Real life is so much less fun. I've abandoned it over the summer rather, but now I have to stop doing much of this so I can concentrate for a while and life looks very grey. It is hard to know what to do with Minastan - I cannot see elves keeping him locked up for ever - or executing him. A working confinement, where he learns pity and mercy and is healed of the damage done to him in his earliest, most helpless years seems the best solution. I'm glad you liked the outcomes for Calion and Macar - and that Finarfin showed his wisdom. Thranduil probably wasn't totally shocked - the marital bond must have made him aware at some level of his wife's healing - and he probably read more in Legolas's face when he returned than his son knew. Both Elrohir and Sirithiel needed him home - for the elflings' sake as well as their own.
Iterildea Turelie Earrinde · 10 September 2004 · Chapter 23: Love's Memory
I see you did not give Legolas' wife a name,but if you do,please,do me a favor call her Iterildea(Iteralday).You see even if that is my elvish name,it is also Legolas' wifes name. I am a phsycic, mostly in the dream world,(my dreams are visions that come to me night)mostly they are prophetic.The reason I wish you to call his wife Iterildea is this:You see in mortal years I am 15, in elvish years, I'd be 537.I read your story sept.10,2004, but I had a dream, very similiar to your story on Oct.11,2001 when I was eleven and in my dream, Iterildea was his wife,23 in mortal years,and they had four elflings, two were twins,Aranel and Aralynn(twins)and Ellon,(the eldest)and the middle Elleth. Also, your story is very popular among the Tolkein readers.I very much enjoyed it.(***this means a day vision)*** If you get it published,it will be very popular by Dec.18,2006. Eldalie,tua amin.Pen-eth,ho ella rel na rel.Ni melme na wo Legolas. Ni melme na wo i eldar.Ni MARANWE na wo i eldar....I belong in the undying lands...***Atlantis will arise and the elves will yet again come on white and grey ships back to Middle earth to take with them back to the undying lands the five young half-elves that were left behind util they were old enough to decide wether to remain elf kind and stay with the elves or(like Arwen)choose the mortal life and be granted long life, but not immortality,and they are not allowed to cross to the elven lands. thankyou
Author's reply
I may not have named Legolas's wife in this chapter, but I am afraid that elsewhere she is already called Elerrina, which means 'crowned with stars'. They do, in fact, have twins - but I have named them Galenthil and Eleniel. However, feel free to change the names in your head as you read. I spent ages trying to think of names for characters like Legolas's wife and the twins' wives. It is a shame that Tolkien didn't provide names for them. I am glad you have enjoyed the story. Thank you for reading.
Bejai · 10 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
Wonderful story, Bodkin! I thoughly enjoyed it. And a lovely ending. Do you have another in this universe the works for us? *hopes*
Author's reply
Thank you for reading. I am glad you enjoyed it. Ending - mushy, but irresistible. I have some thoughts on possible follow ups, but I am currently drowning in all the things I have been putting off in order to indulge myself in this! Must do them first - must do them first - must . . . This is too addictive to stop!
LOTR lover · 10 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
How very satisfying. A wonderful story, with no missteps at all. I started reading this because of Glorfindel's presence, but all the characters are perfectly drawn, both Tolkien's and the originals. And the epilogue is the best part of the whole tale. Thank you for this lovely story.
Author's reply
Thank you. I am glad you enjoyed it. It ended up with a rather larger cast than originally intended! I'm glad you liked the way they turned out. I'm glad you liked the epilogue - it was lovely to write - it almost did itself. I appreciate the reading and reviewing. Thanks.
elliska · 10 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
Oh this was wonderful! Just perfect. I really hoped you would write their meeting. I just loved this. Especially the last part. They do 'need this' and it seems they both deserve it so much. This was a truly fantastic story, Bodkin. It is a real shame to see it end but it will be fun to go back and read again to see what I missed now that I know how it ends--you know how sometimes little details eluded you initially. Great job! Look forward to your next one.
Author's reply
I'm glad you enjoyed it. They do need time now and some peace and quiet to get on with renewing their familiarity with each other. I'm sure they will see to it that that's what they get. (They have their entourage well trained.) I'm sorry to finish it, but I didn't want it to go on too long - as it is, it turned out about half as long again as I originally intended. I look forward to reading more of yours! and to having another go at this - it's totally addictive, isn't it! Thank you for reading and reviewing.
elliska · 10 September 2004 · Chapter 28: Journey's End
Poor Minastan. You really can feel sorry for him and that is one of the things that makes him so interesting. I fear that, though he may receive help in his imprisonment, those are likely scars that go too deep to heal even in Valinor. And it is very sad. All of the wrap up with Calion was very well done. He actually became one of my favorite characters in this. But of course my favorite part was Legolas' conversation with his father. That would be one heck of a piece of news to deliver! I really loved the way Thranduil handled this. It was really perfect. Very in character and very believable. Great job! More chapters to go!
Author's reply
I do feel sorry for Minastan - a lot of people missed a lot of chances to help him - and if they had, then he would probably have turned out all right. But it is too late to make any difference to him now. Yet I can't see elves executing him - and I can't see them being able to deal with the concept of life imprisonment, when life is eternal. I think the Valar might have to be brought into this one way or another. Calion grew on me a lot as the story went on - and he seemed to grow up a lot. Very sensible of him to want to stick with Thranduil. Such a major piece of news for Legolas to bring that it must have been quite difficult to try to give it - good for the Woodland King. The end is nigh - I'm missing it already.
elliska · 10 September 2004 · Chapter 27: Anticipation
It is so great to come back from the hurricane and have so much wonderful reading to do. This chapter is priceless. It is nearly imapossible to pick out my favorite parts. Love the interchange between Minalcar and Ambantor. Those haughty, skilless elves are just too funny and I think you are having too much fun torturing them :) Can't blame you. Of course I love the interchange between Legolas and his mother. Especially: 'Oh well,’ his naneth’s eyes twinkled, ‘that is the difference between being a wife and a son. I am permitted to torment him.’ Too true. But I think I have to conclude that the best is: Glorfindel studied her speculatively. ‘I am fairly sure I have been manipulated,’ he said. Laerwen smiled at him. ‘It is all for the best,’ she told him easily. ‘And no-one will ever know.’ I love that interchange. Great chapter. On to the next one.
Author's reply
I'm so glad you enjoyed it. It's just lovely having people point out the bits they like - and it's especially great when they pick different bits! It is fun torturing Minalcar and Ambantor - they just ask for it. If you can't torture your husband, what it the point of keeping him? (Good thing my husband wouldn't dream of reading any of this!) And why would Glorfindel and Laerwen want to spend weeks talking over something that will end up with the decision put forward in the first place? They can pretend they sat over conference tables until the middle of the next week.
Rose Sared · 10 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
Ahhhh, lovely satisfied sigh. Sorry to be so remiss in reviewing of late - RL is a bitch. This has been a wonderful tale I will miss your steadfast updates. Take a bow, it was done well and well done. Rose
Author's reply
Isn't it just! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I loved writing it. I have a few Reflections that have been waiting their turn, but I think I shall miss the stress of trying to put together something that fitted. I'm blushing. Thank you for your reviews - and for reading in the first place.
Elena Tiriel · 9 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
I have thoroughly enjoyed this story, Bodkin. Thank you! - Barbara
Author's reply
I thoroughly enjoyed writing it - and I am glad you liked it. Thank you for reading and commenting. Rosemary
TieAillin Alcarion · 9 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
This had my heart pounding! GREAT work! Now give Legolas a younger sibling. What the heck, everyone else is pregnant! ;-) Really, we haven't seen him as a big brother. It IS different than parenthood!
Author's reply
I do rather wonder whether elves can carry on having elflings regardless of their age. Or whether parenthood is something you just outgrow, so that Celeborn/Galadriel, Elrond/Celebrian, Thranduil/Laerwen could have more children but just won't - or whether they might say 'Hey my last baby is seven thousand years old, but let's give him/her a baby sibling.' It would be quite fun!
daw the minstrel · 9 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
This was lovely and poetic. Thank you for showing us this moment, Bodkin.
Author's reply
Thank you. It seemed a good point to end. Nothing like a bit of unadulterated romance. (I hope you are planning your next opus. I'm looking forward to it, wherever in the saga it fits.)
rikki · 9 September 2004 · Chapter 999: Lovers' Meeting
Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you! What a lovely epilogue to read during my lunch break. I could just see Thranduil throwing everything he needs in his saddlebags and be out the door before his advisors or anyone could stop him. The trees are singing, the elves are waiting, Laerwen has picked the perfect spot by the waterfall. Wild strawberries and soft grass, nothing could be better for wood elves, I think. ‘We can take all the time we need,’ Thranduil told her, folding her gently in his arms and placing a delicate kiss on her brow. ‘Let us enjoy the journey.’ Sigh. The music comes up, the scene fades as they kiss, and the credits start to roll. (My version of ending a story ala old-fashioned movie style). As you say, writing is addictive, well, reading your stories are addictive. Laughing. Here's hoping that you are already on the next story.
Author's reply
Just the outcome one would like - but never gets! He did go off to the forest while Sirithiel was pregnant (I think) in Reflections - and now I know why! (The two will probably never match up exactly - Reflections is far too episodic - but I did try to make a rough link). The similarity to a glade in Lasgalen is interesting - I wonder what happened there!! I haven't moved on to anything long - it's September, which is not good thinking time - but I'm sure that I will soon. Thank you for reading and commenting.