Reviews (143)

TithenFeredir · 12 July 2005 · Chapter 2: 2

I am definitely enjoying the way you write Gimli and Legolas. Each seems true to his heritage and their interaction refreshingly is free of the usual cliches. I think you handled Legolas' distress over Gimli perfectly. And the dialog is excellent--very Tolkienesque, I think. Thanks for a great read. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 12 July 2005 · Chapter 1: 1

"In the kindly dark under the mountain Gimli raised his right hand and rested it in the middle of his breast, under the warmth of his beard." That is a brilliantly subtle statement of a dwarf's point of view, so matter-of-fact and natural that it sort of hides in plain sight. Your use of words is wonderful. The signs and symptoms of Gimli's heart failure are ominously authentic here, as is his combination of dread and denial. This is terrible, but I'm really wondering what it was that came up to the elf's neck and why Gimli had to run when he got out of it. Sorry to be so late in starting this story, by the way. It looks like a really good tale. ~TF

daw the minstrel · 12 July 2005 · Chapter 12: 12

Geez, I loved that hawk opening. How do you do that? I couldn't do that to save my life. I also really liked the fencing (if you can call it that) between Aragorn and Earnulf. Doing that from Earnulf's POV was brilliant. I could feel the poor man's pain! But a nasty ending, Rose.

Imrahoil · 4 July 2005 · Chapter 11: 11

Another twist? You are having a go at Morgoth?? Pfft, it's probably just another dead-end, yes, no? As long as it's not a trap ... You know, there are definitely some strange similarities between you and Narvi. Do you fiddle with your rings a lot? Do you think you have to do everything to protect the sick elf in your cellar? Well, as long as there are no dead readers of yours or leaf blights in your vicinity it's probably not too bad. Ah, Treebeard, at last. At least he's alive. Snickering beeches and a boiling ent? Huhu, results in a snickering Imrahoil boiling with impatience for the next chapter. G/A/L/E are as well done as ever. Typo-alarm: I think it's Methedras

Bodkin · 3 July 2005 · Chapter 11: 11

I like this even better on rereading. Aragorn is grown very wise. And very good at expressing himself. And I love Treebeard - those beeches are going to regret going up against him before too much longer. This is very clever and subtle. And remarkably interesting!

Ithildin · 2 July 2005 · Chapter 11: 11

Ai, Rose, another intriguing chapter! RL is very busy for me right now (daughter’s wedding coming up in two weeks!) but I’m delighted to see your muses are back and you are back with more of this story! So, Narvi and Celebrimbor are in an underground labyrinth (and what in the world is Celebrimbor making?) Treebeard held prisoner? Orcs herding cave trolls? And whatever is going on is causing widespread damage… Legolas’ interaction with the evil River-daughter was well done and I loved the appearance of Radagast, the way he speaks to the horse before Gimli and his ‘gift’ to the Elf, somehow granting him a respite from the burden of the Sea-longing. Hmm. I’m looking forward to seeing the connections between all these fascinating puzzle pieces – such vibrant images! I can’t wait for more. So keep writing! Looking forward to each new chapter, Ithildin *(

daw the minstrel · 2 July 2005 · Chapter 11: 11

One of the things that continually impresses me about this story is how beautiful the images are without distracting from the story. They don't call attention to themselves; they just deepen our sense of this world. I like the idea of an ent "boiling with impatience." I wonder if the rest of us would be able to tell.

Bodkin · 2 July 2005 · Chapter 11: 11

Oh my - Narvi and Celebrimbor are confronting the great enemy? With Valda's aid? Does this put them on the side of the angels? Despite the strain they are putting on all living things. This is really fascinating stuff. And their hidey-hole seems to be prime Indiana Jones territory. It'll take Gimli to sniff his way through the traps. Fangorn doesn't seem very happy - hopefully Radagast and Legolas to the rescue. Earnulf seems delightfully straightforward. Oda and Earnulf? Maybe. Aragorn needs to look after himself more - he's not as young as he was - but his intentions seem good. I will have to reread this. Maybe with the rest, too. Just to pick up all the nuances! And Gimli and Aragorn had both better look out for the blond nursemaid. He's very quick with his knives!

Imrahoil · 29 June 2005 · Chapter 10: 10

Hey, you, Rose, don't you start reading ranger stories before you have updated, even better finished, your story. Please, please, please. Concentrate, work, I mean write, now! By the way I do really recommend "In the hands of the enemy", but not yet. Ye shall not read ranger stories! *stomps foot instead of staff on bridge, but the voice is the same*

ziggy · 24 June 2005 · Chapter 9: 9

Do you know, this is just so beautifully written. An example- the way you move them through the lanscape, not just tell us, but they actually travel- the lone dog barking is first, in front of them, then at their backs- just that details makes it real.ANd I KNOW that indigo and eggshell effect- absolutely perfect. And Radagast's sort of absent mindedness that ignores Gimli for the horse - that is a wonderful momnet, Gimli straightening himself up and hten Legolas looking apologeticially as he leads R to the horse.I do like the way you write Gimli - very in keeping with the character.But the exchange between R and Gimli about his civilsing influence is particularly funny- made me laugh out loud. So, Narvi and Celebrimbor .. hm....where next? The village has lost all its men ... where are they? How is Narvi getting her power ...Is this linked or a diversion? The mysteries build up so more soon please, please

Imrahoil · 22 June 2005 · Chapter 10: 10

Oh well, diddled again. *Imrahoil sighs resignedly* I had it all pictured in my mind, the villagers huddling in the inn, not knowing what's happening to them, their faces drained of life like Arwen's in the mirror ..., but no, a new twist, orcs and cave trolls on a rampage. "There have been no orcs sighted in Rohan for eighty years." I love this sentence, just one sentence and you're deep into the Fourth Age, still Middle Earth but Sauron etc. only a memory, explains Earnulf's innocence. And a love interest for him, that's nice. Has Elfwine got a palantir or why did Haldis expect eoreds to pop up when needed? Can't stand hysterical people. BUT I don't believe that Aragorn - greatest tracker since Orome or something like that - is not able to identify the track (do you really like the word spoor?) of a cave troll when he sees it, plot reasons or no. And where are Narvi and Celebrimbor, still lost under the Misty Mountains? And where is Treebeard? When do we see an Ent? Next chapter, please.

lwarren · 21 June 2005 · Chapter 10: 10

Yes, indeed, Rose...that is my question, too! WHY??? :-) This was a great chapter dealing with the villagers - it explained a great deal but left more questions than it answered! Well done, Rose! Now I will go crazy trying to figure out who - or what - is masterminding this sudden reappearance of orcs and cave trolls. I like Oda - she needs a sword and some lessons on being a shieldmaiden...she seems to have the command and temperament for one. Earnulf was engagingly tongue-tied as he tried to tell the story and the villagers were supremely fearful, as they should be. Had to appreciate Aragorn's and Legolas' reaction to the orc souvenirs and I liked Gimli's recognition and reaction to the smell of cave trolls (ick). This was great - only enquiring minds want to know WHY (along with WHO, WHAT ,WHEN, WHERE, and HOW!) :-) linda

daw the minstrel · 21 June 2005 · Chapter 10: 10

Well yes, and a very good question it is too. Orcs and cave trolls sounds like a bad combination. The scene in the inn was well done. I could picture the villagers -- women, children, the old -- huddling together in terror.

Bodkin · 21 June 2005 · Chapter 10: 10

Oh my! Cave trolls! And orcs! Oda seems to have the shield-maiden genes of Rohan - even if she is an inn-keeper's daughter. Not to mention good hair. But the fate of Crossbourne's menfolk doesn't seem too promising. I'm glad to see Radagast is joining the party. I think he could prove an essential part of this mission! More soon, please. I can't wait!

lwarren · 17 June 2005 · Chapter 9: 9

Ai! Rose! You really touch my heart with your portrayal of Gimli and Legolas' friendship. I'll just go on and comment on the end of the chapter first. Ascallon - I really love this mare! (And she has a name...imagine that! LOL) The interaction between the gruff dwarf and the uneasy mare is priceless (the battle of wills about whether she would keep him company by standing in his lap!) and the picture of her blowing in his ear is great. Radagast's surprise at the affinity between a dwarf and a horse (she speaks highly of you) and a dwarf and an elf (he trying to civilize the elf, is he?) was so well done. I loved Legolas in the trees analyzing the blight, but the part that really got to me was his openness to the trees leaving him more vulnerable to the sea's call. When he collapses and Radagast comes to his aid - and Gimli mistakes his intentions! So in character for the dwarf to defend first and ask questions later. "Look to your song, Legolas." I loved that - strengthening Legolas through his own inner music (but you know I WOULD pick out that part as a favorite). Gimli's reaction, the tears in his eyes, not being able to meet Legolas's eyes because he misunderstood...I just love that dwarf! And I love your Radagast, too! Very wizard-y! :-) And of course, I love Legolas's radiant face, too (but that goes without saying!) ;-) Now back to the top - so what's up with that village? Huh...huh...HUH????? Sounds very not-good, Rose! Those people were seriously freaked out! Well, I can't wait for the next chapter, tho' I suppose I'll have to... linda (as for the rebellion of characters that want their time in the spotlight...have yours been talking to mine? Do you think they have a Union or something?) :-/

lwarren · 17 June 2005 · Chapter 8: 8

This was a lovely chapter, Rose, full of delightful images and Legolas! LOL (Although I was ready to slap that sprite for sticking him with two gulls for guides...how mean was that?) I loved Aragorn waking up and trying to slap some sense into his sleepy head - and hearing the gulls and freaking out slightly for Legolas' sake - and rushing to join them "via the privy". Rose!!! The King of Gondor has to...you know........go? Well, I never! The conversation with Melusina was so elf-y...magic calls to magic indeed! I loved how she tells Legolas he is focusing on the wrong person...that "she" is draining the world and if he would leave off his association with mortals and pay attention, he just might realize it! That's a scary thought, that the association with mortals hinders Legolas' natural ability to "communicate" with the world of nature that he is usually so attuned to. (Very nice wrench there, Rose, to throw into the works...I'll bet it causes all kinds of problems!) :-) I love your visual word-pictures of the gulls in flight - have you been able to watch them a great deal? You seem to have a great feel for the way they move and how they look as they move. Comparing them to the tail of a kite, or the way they shift on the air like beads on a string *sighs and bows* Wonderful! (I also have to say I had a visual of the gulls all sitting lined up - reminds me of Nemo and the gulls all sitting around saying, "MINE"! I know, I know, I'm a goose! LOL) I love Ascallon already! 'nough said! :-) And the fact that Aragorn and Gimli are so supportive of Legolas (I almost cried when you said they could almost see the waves of the sea crashing behind his eyes *sniff*). Yes, the call is strong! I love Gimli - goofy dwarf (good friend), and I loved the reaction of the men to Radagast and how Aragorn warned them that if they didn't want to be a "different" shape in the morning, they wouldn't meddle in the affairs of wizards. Great chapter, Rose. I'm on to the next! linda

Bodkin · 17 June 2005 · Chapter 9: 9

Has the life-sucking effect reached the village? Are we going to see zombies? Do 20 year old look 90? Is the girl with golden hair about to provide love interest for Earnulf? Are the villagers actually going to tell the king's captain what is going on? Radagast and Legolas, on the other hand, seem to have a better idea. I'm glad to hear that Thranduil's power is sufficient to protect Lasgalen, but the later spring/earlier autumn effect appears to be speeding up in the rest of the world. I like Radagast greeting Ascallon in preference to Gimli - and relying on the horse's impression of the dwarf. And once he's got past the 'nobody touches my elf' reaction, Gimli is going to appreciate Radagast's action in response to the river daughter's 'help'. A very tempting chapter that cries out for more - elaboration and elucidation. Soon, please

daw the minstrel · 16 June 2005 · Chapter 9: 9

So what's going on in the village? This doesn't look good. And leaf blight? What kind of nastiness is afoot here? I like Gimli's protectiveness and his grudging affection for the horse.

Imrahoil · 15 June 2005 · Chapter 8: 8

Hm, faugh, very nice touch, like it. *grin* Gulls as guides? River daughters do like to hold grudges, don't they? That gives me lots and lots of wonderful ideas what Goldberry might do when Tom Bombadillo is getting on her nerves ... Like that even more. The plot thickens well, contrasting G/L/A/A not - yet - being able to deal with mortality with what happens when you're unable to accept death and act upon it. But of course you had to steer clear of N/C again for a whole chapter and leave us suspended. Authors do like power too much for my taste. Oh, I forgot: How lovely to hear from you, Rose. *grin again*

ziggy · 11 June 2005 · Chapter 8: 8

Oh brilliant- I love surprises! Radagast has always struck me as being rather undervalued and under rated- even by Tolkien (hush ma mouth!) She is a little minx that naughty Melusina- I am getting quite fond of her in a weird way. And ohmigod! Aragorn? Goes to the loo? Surely not! Thsi has got to be the FIRST ever when the Great Man has a need to visit the privy- and htat is what makes this wonderfully real and convincing. All the characters really do exist, and all the little details are used to make that happen. The crease between Legolas' eyes- he really does that. I like the way Melusina reprimands Legolas and tells him to attend to the business of elves instead of humans. I think there are a couple of others who would be surprised to find themselves agreeing with her, and you explore that relationship that will ultimately casue Legolas more pain than anyone - you have really made me think about that, the cost. In reply to your relpy (do you think Tolkien was a great one for great heroic epics where good triumphs over evil (every story just about is like this) but at a cost to the individuals - the Fellowship contains such a sadness: I can never read the appendices. And I never read the last chapter - just go back to the first. He always writes about loss in the end. You are managing this very well- exploring that idea but not terrifying me that they are all going to die! Thank you for the update ... little hint from impatient reader. I keep thinknig about Narvi... and Celebrimbor. What work? Is it hte same work as AUle spoke of to Gimli? So is Gimli come to help or destroy? ANd there is still that anguish to come when Legolas realsies what he will have to face.

Bodkin · 10 June 2005 · Chapter 8: 8

Oh, very good. I like Radagast disappearing with Legolas and Gimli. Probably just as well Aragorn was left behind to stop the panic. (And he's feeling his age - I can't imagine he spends too much time on the road now. But what do you mean, he visits the privy? Surely Middle Earth was a privy-free zone!) '“And let your fen carry the cost? Not willingly, madam.” The river-daughter’s gaze intensified, “So now you begin to understand, Legolas. Free me,” she paused, seemed to fight some internal battle. “Please?”' . Interesting. Power drawing on the natural world - and improper use of power being destructive. Gulls as guides is a bit mean. But she is an elemental, I suppose. And calling them Peep and Squawk will probably help. It's difficult to be overly affected by creatures with ridiculous names. (Gimli is clever!) Aragorn groaned and dropped his head. It appeared that it was his fate on this trip to tangle with every magical being left in Middle-earth. Poor Aragorn. But take a deep breath and think - No Tom Bombadil. (Yet.) You can cope with the rest as long as there is no explosion of bad rhymes! I hope the muses are being cossetted and treated to all their favourite indulgences - I can't wait to see what they come up with next.

daw the minstrel · 9 June 2005 · Chapter 8: 8

A string of gulls lifted into the air like the tail of a kite What a striking and true image. The men's reaction to Radagast was funny, and it drove home how time has passed so that Gimli and Aragorn are aging. I'm really enjoying this, Rose. I hadn't realized how much I missed your writing.

Imrahoil · 6 June 2005 · Chapter 7: 7

Well, look who's back again. The Gimli basher, hrmpf. There will have to be quite a lot of updates on time (ch. 8 next week!, for example), before I'm going to forgive you, and much do you care about it, I'm sure. Brrrrrrr, an elven zombie, poor Celebrimbor, poor Narvi, it will be interesting to see how you are going to unravel those two and how this is bound to Arwen's experience. When Theresa is back to betaing I hope she's going to do something about the Oops. :-) A very grumpy Imrahoil

ziggy · 5 June 2005 · Chapter 7: 7

Wonderful! I thought this was going to remain incomplete and am so delighted you are writing again! Narvi and Celebrimbor! Legolas and Gimli! I love these resonances - where the relationships of both are explored through the others. So is Narvi the witch sucking everything dry to keep alive her dead lover? 'Mending'? (Great image) Building a mausoleum for Celebrimbor? ANd what are our heroes going to do about it? PLEASE don't kill Gimli off at the end though- or at least, not without a warning so I can skip the end- I cant bear it.And all these references to how vulnerable he is is just sending off warning bells - perhaps Mahal can give him a reward for completing his work? Long life- EXTRA long..after all, he has to go West doesnt he? And that doesnt mean to say you can just get rid of Aragorn instead please (Am I begging- yes. PAthetic isnt it?) THe way you portray the aging of the other characters against Legolas' immortality is poignant and devastating actually- how can he bear it? And hte line where he tells Aragorn he will do anything to keep Gimli with him- is this what Narvi is doing? Or is this something else? ANd what does MAhal want from Gimli (I loved the scene where Gimli meets him- 'you were ever my favourite Gimli') Equally tender and poignant is the relationship between Narvi and Celebrimbor... she has made her own prison, and a bough drops off a tree as she 'mends' - she knows what she has done and ultimately, Legolas will know the pain she feels, I think, when Gimli's time comes. Lots of elfy angst and dwarvish sorrow to come I feel. Oh, and the summoning of the gulls by a very disgruntled adolescent-ish and peeved river-woman - great! I need to go back and read all your previous fics again!

daw the minstrel · 4 June 2005 · Chapter 7: 7

I adored this. You do Gimli so well. Your language is so vivid! All I had to do was read the first few lines to see both what happened and how Gimli reacted, and you didn't have to tell me a thing. As I read them, I was both charmed and deeply jealous. Legolas is good too. I like his "uncharitable" treatment of the River's Daughter. He's a very royal elf, acting out of both personal anger and pique at her violation of the agreement she had with Thranduil. As always, the contrast between the deathless elf and his aging friends is touching. Celebrimbor and Narvi. Well that's a new one! I look forward to seeing what happens.