vampfan30
· 27 April 2006
· Chapter 18: Crossing Thresholds
I started reading fanfic for the firt time in January and I've got to say that this is definitely one of the best I've come across...Your insight into the characters - Gimli's gruffness, Sam's willingness to serve, Merry & Pippin's exuberence for life in general, & our beloved Prince's devotion to Aragorn - it is impeccable, to say the least. Waiting patiently for next update... (okay, maybe not so patiently *ahem*) I have become a fanfic junkie, much to the chagrin of my poor husband, who patiently puts up with my midnight cacklings & latenight sniffles. Your story provides a good balance of both, thanks!!!
Author's reply
Hi Vampfan30,
"midnight cacklings & latenight sniffles" - not to mention occasional thumping of fists against whatever object is near - is exactly what you'll get if you become a fanfic junkie, but oh! what a delightfully small price to pay for the pleasure, wouldn't you agree?
Thank you for taking pleasure in this little tale, and letting me know - it warms my heart and fingers because we spend much time weaving tales for others to enjoy, and ask for nothing more than a friendly hello, which you gave so wonderfully!
Next update will be in a couple of weeks, but in the meantime, you can indulge in midnight readings of my other (completed) stories under my profile (one long one and some really short ones) if you'd like to.
Hope to have you on board for the rest of the journey with Aragorn and Legolas and company. :-)
Legolass
Linda Hoyland
· 26 April 2006
· Chapter 18: Crossing Thresholds
I just loved the image of Aragorn returning to his "Strider" persona and telling his guards tales of the old days.
Legolas vision continues to alarm me.You have convinced me that it is more than a nightmare.
Aragorn is however surrounded by love,from his friends and family, both those with him and Arwen,Eldarion and Faramir anxiously awaiting his return.
You create a wonderful sense of foreboding.It is always a pleasure to find an update to this story.
Author's reply
I would have loved to be one of those guards too - I bet they'll feel pretty small as supposed protectors of their King after they listen to all the great challenges their 'protectee' has overcome. The "Strider" personal - great way to put it.
As for Legolas' vision: sometimes a nightmare is just a nightmare.
Sometimes. :-)
It's always a pleaure to hear from you, too, Linda. Thank you.
Hm, Orthanc seems very much like a haunted castle to me. You could nearly believe that the ghost of Saruman still dwells there. *shiver* I love it how you describe the atmosphere of that place. I wonder what they will find there. Well, being in that dark place is still much better than travelling with a horde of ghosts to meet Shelob.
I'm so glad Hamille has gone with them! :) I'd like to hug poor Legolas now. What a terrible fear to live with until they finally reach their destination. It makes me wonder what exactly that dream means - if it was even a dream. I'm glad Legolas told Hamille about it (alright, I have to admit he is obviously less stubborn than I thought ;-). And I can understand that he does not want to tell Aragorn - if Aragorn reacts to the dream the same way Legolas does it would probably drive him frantic before they even find Shelob.
“I only ask that you do not bear it alone,” said Hamille. - *sigh* *melts* The two of them are so sweet together, it's easy to imagine them as elflings once more. :) I'm really glad Legolas has someone to confide in.
What a nice way hobbits have to great the King of Gondor. *g* Somehow it is nice to have the hobbits along, I have a feeling the will lighten the atmosphere. Though it must be really hard for Sam. At least he will not have to fight Shelob this time - or so I hope. I will refrain from commenting on that change of clothes. *g* Poor Faramir - he was obviously not very happy about his king's decision. ;-)
What a nice last sentence. *shudder* Well, now we are really getting close. I can't wait to see what will happen in Shelob's lair (I only hope they find her at all). Another wonderful chapter, and I absolutely loved the scene between Legolas and Hamille! *purrrrs and huggles elves* I only hope Hamille will refuse to leave Legolas' side.
*shuffles off to dream of gorgeous elves*
*hugs*
a purring Duckie :)
Author's reply
So - what happened to those gorgeous elves in your dream? Were they also full of worries, and did you get to hug them? :-)
So you don't think they will find Shelob? I think that's going to put our Elf and Ranger in a major fix. :-0
We'll find out next chapter I guess.
THanks for the review, Duckie - and keep purring.
Hugs
Legolass
Alison H
· 26 April 2006
· Chapter 18: Crossing Thresholds
Lovely to see an update, Legolass.Don't worry about the time between chapters--I, for one, know that I'll be with this story 'till the end.
I had to laugh at the two young dwarves bantering back and forth while Gimli ia about to burst with frustration.What a lovable pair they are *and* they found the tunnel.Of course they explored it and I'm sure Gimli would have dragged Legolas down it(kicking and screaming!) if *he* had found it first!
Legolas is having such a horrific time with the dream that he either has to tell Aragorn or the horrors he saw will render him unable him to function.Hamille was quite shocked by the level of Legolas' anguish, and I would bet that Aragorn will again ask him about what troubles Legolas.Poor Legolas, he is so traumatised by what he saw in his dream that he can't help thinking that the worst is about to happen.Just what have you got planned for Aragorn......?
This chapter was nicely set up for the next journey our Elf and former Ranger take together and I can't wait to see what you have in store for them.
Take care and update soon.
Ali.
Author's reply
"Of course they explored it and I'm sure Gimli would have dragged Legolas down it(kicking and screaming!) if *he* had found it first!"
LOL - I agree!
Legolas will continue to worry, that I can assure you - but whether the worry is founded or not remains to be seen... of course. :-)
Thanks so much for your support.
*Still reeling from the strange title of U2's latest album*
Legolass
RedSquirrel
· 24 April 2006
· Chapter 17: Shutters
Hmmm ... that bathing scene was ... ummmm, delightful :-) My imagination did a couple of somersaults before it passed out, screaming. Well, I tried to be discreet, but how could I read with my eyes closed - how could I review?! But I guess I have not been the only one around there, drooling, lol!
But I especially loved that last part, where Aragorn keeps fastening his hair even though Legolas is still unable to tell him why he did it in the first place. I'm afraid I usually never do anything if I am not told a reason for it. But now I will try to keep this in mind, because it is such a great sign of friendship and trust, and I love Aragorn for it.
Your couple of dwarves is a brillant team, funny, annoying, and effective. How did they get into the tower, when they did not even want to get into the boat? I suspect there might be a tunnel, but they must have been very clever to discover it - or very lucky. Probably both! Gimli must be frustrated, first a ridiculous squirrel to doubt him, then a couple of 'youngsters' to prove him wrong.
Again, I'm awfully late - I've got a new job, and I'm still struggling to find out what exactly I'm supposed to do. But this evening, with the sense of some achievement at last, I needed to post what had been on my mind for a long time now. Hugs for you, and a hearty kick for 'work',
from your rodent
Author's reply
I just love the thought that I have a resident rodent in my story. :-) And that the rodent is capable of swooning over a couple of delicious hunks in a bathing scene. Ooooh, I just love that the scene had that effect on more than one reader *wiping off steam from PC screen and wet squirrel*
Gimli is going to be pretty grumpy for a while, that's for sure. I bet he felt as you did at some point: still not sure about what needs to be done at the job. :-p
Hope it works out soon for you, my Rodent friend, and that the sense of achievement continues.
Hugs back,
Legolass
Linda Hoyland
· 12 April 2006
· Chapter 17: Shutters
Legolas's concern for Aragorn is truly touching.
Dwarves are full of surprises. I know how you feel about getting lonely between chapters !I still have a feel of foreboding over what will happen to ARagorn.
Author's reply
Hi, Linda. I'd just finished replying to another review when this one popped up.
Yes, Legolas is as worried for Aragorn as you are, but see how Aragorn is such a great friend in spite of not knowing what it is that's bothering the elf.
As always, it's good to hear from you. Thanks for dropping in. You still fear something will happen to Aragorn? ;-)
Legolass
Silivren Tinu
· 12 April 2006
· Chapter 17: Shutters
*settles down comfortably with update and chocolate*
I take it that Aragorn's smell was not as noble as the rest of him. *g* Those two are so sweet together! *purrrs* "that he had fastened Aragorn’s hair because it bothered him to see it thus unruly" - Well, nice explanation... very believable, lol. In that case Aragorn should probably be afraid to wake up with a perm next time, or a short haircut. *giggle* I'm glad Aragorn didn't buy it, though I guess Legolas will be too stubborn to talk about his nightmare.
I LOVE Hamille. :) And it is so sweet of Aragorn to fasten his hair each night with the cord though he does not even know why Legolas did it. *purrrring*
Well, Bragor and Dagor promise to be... interesting company. *g* I like the name "Treegarth" and your description of it. I must be a beautiful place, though perhaps a bit mysterious and a little bit eerie because of the dark tower in the lake. Well, Gimli sure has a very dwarvish way to handle problems. ;-) Bragor and Dagor may be a bit strange, but they sure have their use. *gapes* That problem at least should be solved.
I loved that chapter from beginning to end and will wait patiently for the next one! I wonder what Celebonr and companions will find in Orthanc, and I'm quite anxious about what will happen with Aragorn.
Hugs,
purrring Duckie :)
Author's reply
"I take it that Aragorn's smell was not as noble as the rest of him." - LOL! That would have been a nice line for Legolas: "Well, may I say that your smell has not quite as noble as the rest of you." :-D
Interesting how readers seem to see Legolas as being stubborn in refusing to talk about the nightmare. To me, it's just difficult for him to tell Aragorn: "I dreamt you had lost your face; it foreshadows something really terrible" when the man already has so much weighing him down - it's like trying to telling someone "I dreamt you died" -- I couldn't do it; thus, neither can Legolas, for now. :-) He's keeping it in out of love for his friend - and out of fear of confronting it as well. BUT Aragorn, not understanding the nature of the problem, would see it as stubborness, so I guess many readers see it from Aragorn's point of view. Very, very interesting!
I wish "Treegarth" had been my own creation :-p - but it was actually the name given to the place by the Ents - remember Quickbeam welcoming Gandalf and company to it after the Quest? But I'm glad you liked the description - most of that was mine, thank you. *bow*
Oh, methinks you won't be needing tissues for this story, Duckie, so you can stash that box away. But keep the chocolate. ;-)
Hugs,
Legolass
harrowcat
· 11 April 2006
· Chapter 17: Shutters
If you get lonely in between chapters then be glad that we, too, come along for the ride! I love your dwarves, Legolass and the nightly hair-dressing.
Author's reply
Well, now I may not feel so lonely, knowing that you are all actually riding silently with me. :-) Thank you!
("Nightly hair-dressing"... I'm trying to imagine Aragorn in a salon, lol!)
Alison H
· 11 April 2006
· Chapter 17: Shutters
I really enjoyed this chapter, Legolass.Great to hear from you again.Your stories are always worth any wait!
After the horrific nightmare Legolas suffered I had wondered how he, and Aragorn would react.I wasn't at all surprised that Legolas denied that anything was amiss but Aragorn just knows his friend too well and the elf's explanations would have seemed too...well, odd.The fact that Legolas snapped at him alarmed Aragorn further but I'm sure that Aragorn will eventually prise apart the shutters that Legolas has erected around himself.Interesting chapter title, by the way.Maybe Legolas is protecting his own sanity by *not* discussing what he saw but that isn't very healthy.
Oh, and I must thank you for the gratuitous Elf and Ranger bathing scene.That certainly brightened and refreshed my day! Mmmmm...what a lovely visual image ;D
What a hoot Dagor and Bragor were! They did indeed remind me of certain hobbits and Gimli almost exploded at their antics! That was very enjoyable but there is still a job to do and Celeborn needs to find anything that will help Aragorn.
P.S I loved 'Elizabethtown', too.Isn't Orlando's American accent great? I don't think I heard a trace of his English accent once.He and Kirsten were fabulous together, too.
P.P.S The director's cut of 'Kingdom Of Heaven' is out on DVD next month and there are loads of adding scenes, including a bathing scene with Orlando and he's on the commentary, too.I feel my fan girl side ready to "Squee!" at the thought!
Update soon.
Ali
Author's reply
Alison, I'm going to hug you twice for this review!
Once - because you GOT the title! When I write a chapter with two or three different scenes and sets of characters, I always choose the title carefully so that it relates, as far as possible, to each part of that chapter - and I wanted "shutters" to refer to (in your words) "the shutters that Legolas has erected around himself" and Aragorn's failure to "prise [them] apart", as well as the shutters that threatened to keep Gimli and company out of Orthanc. THANK YOU! *hug*
Twice - because you reacted to the bathing scene just as I'd hoped *some* readers would (choose one or all: squeal/swoon/salivate) - lol! (Allow me several paragraphs of fan-girl madness.) Thank you again! *second hug*
Doing the happy dance (after reminding Bragor and Dagor to be serious, yes)
:-)
Legolass
p.s. All in all, Orlando did a good job with his American accent, although I could not help remembering he's British. :-p He was just d*** cute. And thanks for the heads-up on the DVD. I already have the KOH DVD but I didn't check out the extra features - I didn't know there'd be another - but I'll get that too!
eliza61
· 11 April 2006
· Chapter 17: Shutters
Mae Govannen Legolass,
Welcome back. What an enjoyable chapter! but first apologies for the cryptic review to the last chapter, your stories are such a pleasure and I always look forward to the updates, they deserve a bit more than a hetic review scribbled between meetings. I fear you are getting to know your reviewers all to well. LOL
What wonderful characters, Bragor and Dagor are just what my dreary Tuesday needed. Poor Gimil, first Merry & Pippin now these two and just when he was trying to make such a good impression to Lord Celeborn. I love how they are so concern for Gimili.
Now about Legolas, I don't know- I'm still thinking maybe he should fess up about his dream. It's really starting to wear on him and I know first hand how horrible it is to have some thing upsetting some one you love and they won't confide in you. You feel so helpless and usually end up fearing all sorts of horrible things. Maybe you could suggest he try and talk at least to Hamille...
I'm state side now so the Easter holiday is approaching, So many blessings and hope you enjoy yours.
E
Author's reply
Mae govannen, Eliza!
I understand the need to scribble quick notes sometimes... our 'other' lives won't leave us alone to write and read in peace.
So glad B & D colored your dreary Tuesday; I love it when my chapters do something good for someone. And you're right - they didn't make Gimli look very good, did they? But they have redeemed themselves a little by getting everyone an access point. Exactly how they did it will have to wait till next chapter - I decided to leave this chapter as it was; I was too tired to write more, to be honest. :-p
I'm afraid Legolas is not going to fess up to Aragorn anytime soon - if at all. The elf thinks Aragorn already has enough on his plate... although Aragorn wishes to know. They're trying to protect each other from hurt - and isn't that what people who love each other do?
okay - what's state side? *insert sheepish look here* Does that mean you're back in the States? Anyway -- have a great Easter, and forget about orc-torture sessions for a while.
Hugs
Legolass
Nayru
· 7 April 2006
· Chapter 16: A Faceless Fear
Hello Legolass.
I am, like always, impressed by your ability to put into view the story. I felt Legolas fear and grief. I almost broke down in tears as I was reading! Keep it up!. It is true that we have those kind of nigth mares. Now.. I l-leave you so -so I can cry.
Author's reply
Hello Nayru - I seem to recall you've reviewed my other story before... so, nice to hear from you again here. :-)
Nothing pleases a writer more than to know the story affects the reader in the way it was intended. So - thank you for sharing Legolas' fear and anguish, and for letting me know.
Legolass *feeling both guilty and good that the chapter made you cry*
shaanlien
· 25 March 2006
· Chapter 8: Return to Pelargir
Wow. This is utterly fascinating. I've gotten this far, have to save the rest for later. As always, the conenction between Legolas and Aragorn is my favourite bit, but you incorporate the others into the stories very well. I like the demonstrations of "twinship" between Elladan and Elorhir, being a twin myself. We do all that stuff like finishing each other sentences and not to mention knowing what each other is thinking. Hopefully I'll get around to the rest of it soon. I certainly don't know what to expect.
Author's reply
Hi, Shaan Lien - what a pleasure it is to hear from you! Hope you're well, my friend. I'm glad you're being entertained by the story - and it's good to know that the 'twinship' moments do occur in real life. Uncanny, what twins share!
Thanks for the review, and you can look forward to more moments between those two friends. On my part, I'm looking forward to hearing from you again later, whenever you have the time.
BTW - guess what I'm watching now? Elizabethtown! Orlando's latest movie - have you seen it yet? I'm watching it for the second time. I like the movie, and he's still drop-dead gorgeous. Kirsten Dunst is also very good.
Legolass
Silivren Tinu
· 22 March 2006
· Chapter 16: A Faceless Fear
Waht a ride! *shiver* I'm really glad that you have not set your heart on horror stories, I guess you could make me very, very uncomfortable. ;-) I hope they will not all be completely exhausted when they meet Shelob.
Hamille's concern for Legolas is always so sweet. :) I really hope Hamille will not go back to Ithilien, it is much more comforting to have him around, even with sea-longing.
*shiver* I so hope that this dream is not foresight or something. This nightmare is terrible, and when "Aragorn" says "I know you not" it always makes me flinch inside. But the faceless being was much worse. Poor Legolas - in the situation they are in such a nightmare must be even more dreadful. I'm only glad that Hamille was there to wake him.
The part about the foreshadow is new, isn't it? :) I think I would have done exactly what Legolas did after such a nightmare. I'm really curious what explanation he will give Aragorn. ;-) I wish he would simply tell him the truth, but I have a feeling he will not want to burden Aragorn in any way.
*sigh* It is really a relief when Aragorn finally wakes up. I hope that Legolas will sleep again at all during that ride. A wonderful chapter, as always (and I read it at night, again). I always love meeting the elf and the ranger (well, king *g*) again in your stories. *purrrs* I'm looking forward to the next chapter, the situation they are in makes me a little bit nervous. ;-)
Hugs,
Duckie :)
Author's reply
Well, Duckie - I guess the easy times aren't here yet. :-) It sounds sadistic saying this, but I'm glad the dream is so intense for readers *grin* - because that way, they would know how Legolas felt. BUt then you love the elf so much you would have empathised anyway. :D
It was wonderful chatting with you last night - we'll tackle your 'unfulfilled wish' yet. ;-)
Hope you enjoyed those stars --- and purred over them.
Hugs
Legolass
Red Squirrel
· 22 March 2006
· Chapter 16: A Faceless Fear
What an awful nightmare! And we cannot even be sure that it was only just that - it might have been a premonition, a warning, perhaps? Poor Legolas, he is so much on edge already, he does not need to be told to watch over Aragorn. His emotions, alarm, fear, panic, terror, shock, pain, grief, his need for reassurance and finally his relief were so vivid, so intense, I felt it all along with him - and wished I could offer comfort. But fortunately there is Hamille! His loyalty to his prince and his caring, protective friendship are very touching. Do you know, I liked best that "tiny crease between the fine eyebrows". He has a will of his own, and no intention at all to leave his prince and friend. By the way, what became of that elleth, whose good opinion seemed to matter to a young Hamille, a long time ago?? I need to hear ALL about that, and am prepared to offer my very best hoard of chestnuts for that story *hint, hint*!
A brilliant chapter, I loved it!
Your insatiably curious Rodent
Author's reply
It's so good to know that the chapter did exactly what it was supposed to do: arouse the array of emotions our beloved elf went through. I too love Hamille - strange for me to say this since I created him - but I do. And now I know how much you do too! hmmm... that elleth... I take the hint :-) Let me see what I can do about that at some point. JUST FOR THE INSATIABLY CURIOUS RODENT. :D
Thank you - I love your visits.
Linda Hoyland
· 17 March 2006
· Chapter 16: A Faceless Fear
This was an outstanding chapter moving from the humour at the beginning of the reactions of the people, to the chilling horror of Legolas's nightmare and the touching depths of his love for Aragorn.A very moving chapter that sent chills down my spine !I am still very worried about Aragorn.
Author's reply
"I am still very worried about Aragorn." -- as we should be, Linda, and I know you will be at the top of the list.
Thank you very much for your approval of this chapter - it's one of those I just HAD to write, and I'm gratified to know you noted the array of emotions involved.
harrowcat
· 17 March 2006
· Chapter 16: A Faceless Fear
Oh poor Legolas!
Author's reply
I will send Legolas your sympathies, Harrowcat - thank you. :-)
eliza61
· 17 March 2006
· Chapter 16: A Faceless Fear
Well-met Legolass,
I thought about saving this chapter until Monday morning, but I would have never made it. Boy, my favorite elves are having a bit of drama in this chapter. You've captured exactly how nightmares have the ability to scare you witless. I think "my Leggy" is going to have to explain to Aragorn though, the man is to shrewd and I think after all those two have been through lately he is too in tune with Legolas to not noticed some thing amiss (even if he did manage not to notice the blonde braid he now has) He must be horrible knowing some thing bad is going to happen to your love one and not knowing what it is or how to protect them from it.
And since I know, you know how much I love Hamille, I know you would not be so cruel to me as to have him sail. Right??? (insert appropriate groveling here, offers of 1st born etc,)
Your fan
Eliza
Author's reply
Mae govannen, mellon nin,
You must have written this review in a hurry - I could tell. ;-) Let me guess... you were at work - or about to go home - and had to steal a peek because you couldn't wait and you just had to respond, but you didn't have much time. Am I close? So you couldn't wait till your weekly orc-torture session? lol!
No, this nightmare is going to be one of those things Legolas will not be able to bring himself to talk about anytime soon - and especially not to Aragorn. It's like dreaming someone dies... how do you tell the person about it? :-(
And I'd meant to keep the blonde braid thing unaddressed. :-) BUT - we'll see what happens...
As for Hamille - I'll tell him you grovelled - he'll be so flattered. :-)
Thank you SO much for reviewing - despite your hurry. *hugs*
Alison H
· 17 March 2006
· Chapter 16: A Faceless Fear
Wow, that was some chapter! Legolas' fear was so intense and my own heart was racing as I read each word that I had to struggle not to scroll to the end of the chapter!.Poor Legolas--the nightmare would have been so real for an elf, and for Legolas it was truly terrifying because it involved Aragorn.
If the Twice Forgotten caused the nightmare then that is terrifying in itself.Legolas should not send his friend away now *and* he should tell Aragorn about the nightmare--but the evil inside me also wants a little more elf angst so Legolas should keep the nightmare to himself then Aragorn will start to worry if he fears elven sleep.
I'm not surprised that Aragorn was a little nonplussed over Legolas' greeting the morning after(that would start me thinking)but he has no reason to worry--unless Hamille tells him of Legolas' episode during the night.
Oh, and Legolas watching Aragorn sleep and fastening his hair back with his own hair was really touching.*Sigh*--such a friendship those two have.
Great chapter Legolass.Can't wait for the next update.
Ali.
Author's reply
Thank you so much, Alison, for letting me you found Legolas' fear intense. I watched this movie many years ago where there was this faceless ghost, and I've never forgotten it - it was a horrible, horrible sight - and it just seemed right for inclusion in this story.
Aragorn might never find out about his nightmare. I cannot imagine telling someone you love that he had no face in a dream, and I think Legolas would not be able to bring himself to do it.
However, you will still get your elf angst, although it might not be what you imagined it to be. :-)
Red Squirrel
· 15 March 2006
· Chapter 15: Parting of Ways
I'm back - and very happy to find a new chapter!! I've been away digging - for nuts, acorns, and various human 'droppings'. I'm definitely nutty (I must be), but not a professor.
*hopping blithely into chapter*
*giggles* "Another nail in their coffin - Not that they had any to begin with" *giggles* "an expression dour enough to pickle orcs" *giggles* “spare us the privilege of your roving imagination! We can paint our own pictures, thank you kindly.” *more giggles* “If you or that human come back half-dead, Legolas, I will gladly finish the job myself!” *continued giggling*
- I'm afraid this review will have to be delayed until *giggles* this fit is over *giggles*(hiding beneath a bush, leaves starting to shake)
... - very much later -
Ahem! Gimli really is inspired today! And Aragorn is on fire, too (trying to imagine the face that goes with the quietly dangerous voice and leaving it off quickly). As for this story having unexpected twists and turns, I don't object to snake's crawls or worm tunnels, as long as they have no ending! In fact, I'm quite enthusiastic about having a peep at the archives of Orthanc and meeting Shelob again (speaking from a very safe place high up in the branches, of course).
But... remembering how quite a lot of Miners sat on the doorstep of Smaug's hiding-place for a long time without the least idea how to get in, how a certain dwarf was no great help in getting into Moria, and how a whole army of enraged ents and huorns hadn't been able to make even a dent into the tower of Orthanc, I must admit I have certain doubts about Gimli's optimism as to the short work he will make of the lock (quickly disappearing behind a tree, bushy tail narrowly missed by the trusty axe).
"it shall all end then”? "...so there are no regrets”? Ugh, that does sound very ominous. I say, let's drop the consequences on Fierthwain, it's his fault after all, not letting Celeborn near the old man! I can't wait to hear what Celeborn will find out! I love the scholarly, fatherly air about him - reminds me a bit of Gandalf.
Author's reply
Well, my Nutty friend: I'm glad this chapter gave you so much cause for mirth! *pretending to be annoyed*
Lol - Gimli is actually glad he amused you. He is precious - the bright spark in what could have been a morosely dark situation. :-)
But he doesn't appreciate being reminded of his kin's folly and helpless stupor in the Lonely Mountain ("Well, it wasn't ME there!") and his trusty axe IS hungry for some squirrel meat. *sits back and enjoys the spectacle of one grumpy dwarf going in search of one red squirrel". (Oh, and fatherly Celeborn is sagely witnessing it with me.)
The Dwarf lord also reminds you that after the Ents' wrathful assault upon Isengard, "the doors lay hurled and twisted on the ground" and much of the stone of Orthanc had "cracked and splintered into countless jagged shards" - and the stronghold of Saruman wasn't quite as strong any longer. (There! you've had a tiny peep into one of the coming chapters :-) )
But Gimli DOES agree fully with you about Fierthwain. (I'd advise you to keep his anger turned on that dolt - his axe looks mighty sharp.)
Oh, it was lovely to hear from you agin, my rodent friend - and I hope you managed to dig up plenty. Thanks very much for the visit.
Author Reply:
Actually, my dear rodent, you are right about Orthanc - Isengard is in ruins, but the tower is still very strong. But fear not - our stalwart dwarf will find a way! :-)
Linda Hoyland
· 4 March 2006
· Chapter 15: Parting of Ways
It didn't seem a very good idea after all,letting those ghosts loose !I have a nasty feeling they won't go easily,even if they destroy Shelob.A lovely mixture of humour and tension. I like it that aragorn doesn't forget his family or Faramir and rises to the daunting task ahead.I eagerly await more.
Author's reply
YES!!! I knew you would be (at least) the one reader who would notice that Aragorn spared a thought for Faramir. Thank you!
You have a nasty feeling that those Dead won't leave? :-) That is what they have been waiting for, though... ah well, we will find out when we find out. ;-)
Thanks very much for the review, Linda.
Silivren Tinu
· 4 March 2006
· Chapter 15: Parting of Ways
Update! And so quickly! *enthusiastic Wet Puddle hops into story with a splash*
Uh-oh - I feared this little detail of their oath would cause some problems... I don't think Aragorn can resurrect Sauron (or would want to), even for the Twice Forgotten. ;-)
“Another nail in their coffin,” - Gimli always finds a way to make me giggle, even when there is really no reason for amusement. I never thought anyone would wish to see Sarambaq again (he *is* dead, isn't he?!) - now this is a rather bizarre situation. *hugs Gimli* Exactly my thoughts! *g*
*giggle* Gimli is in really good form today, isn't he? To hunt down Shelob is a great idea (though I prefer a vacuum cleaner to the Army of the Dead where spiders are concerned, but luckily said beasts are usually smaller than Shelob ;-). That is the first time that I actually hope Shelob is well and alive.
These nice "ghastly fellows" are really not the kind of guests you want to bring home to your family. *shudder*
"A strange light flashed in the eyes of the old man, but it was extinguished as quickly as it had flared, and his face went impassive. “Yes,” he said dully. “Yes, it shall all end then.” " - I don't like this! I don't like this at all. There's something this ghost doesn't tell, and I'm sure it is something bad. *looks at Legolass suspiciously*
I think the ghost could find a nice cozy home in Fierthwain. *glowers* I wish Celeborn, Elladan and Gimli could come along - but it is probably really more important to find out what the runes say (though I feel much more safe with Celeborn around). I'm only glad you don't separate Aragorn and Legolas. :)
I really like Celeborn's fatherly attitude towards Aragorn and Legolas. :) “If you or that human come back half-dead, Legolas, I will gladly finish the job myself!” - Did I mention that I love that dwarf? What a dire threat, lol! *g*
It's a pity Sarambaq could only die once - that would have been such a nice fate for him! :D Did I mention lately what a wonderful author you are? ;-) I'm already eagerly looking forward to the next chapter! I like the idea to go into Mordor again and see what has become of Shelob. *delighted shudder* And that with a Host of the Dead at their heels - really, poor Aragorn!
Hugs,
a purring WP :)
Author's reply
Hee hee - I'm imagining the Shadow Host being one gigantic vacuum cleaner for Shelob! :-D That would be one BIG dust bag we need!
Yes Gimli's on fire today isn't he?
And separate Aragorn and Legolas?? Try pulling that elf away if you want a quick death. *ahem* I imagine Celeborn would feel fatherly towards them both; after all, he is SO many thousands of years older.
Well, I'm glad I made you shudder. It's a lovely image: a shuddering wet puddle. :-) Thank you for your compliments and your review. *bow and HUG*
harrowcat
· 4 March 2006
· Chapter 15: Parting of Ways
Yep!! You are right Legolass. Too tired. Perhaps I can get you to start 'beter-ing' my reviews?
Author's reply
Lol!! Hope you're feeling less tired now and having a great weekend. :-)
harrowcat
· 4 March 2006
· Chapter 15: Parting of Ways
I just knew that the title of this title was ominous and I was right. great chapter Legolass
Author's reply
Did you mean "the title of this chapter", harrowcat? :-)
Glad you were right. Thank you for your review.
nessa
· 4 March 2006
· Chapter 15: Parting of Ways
Its a scary thought of what may happen in Cirith Ungol. But is Shelob really as big a foe as they need to redeem themselves? Maybe they will be needed to fight the evil in the south instead? Do we foresee some major angst on our way? Hope so.
Author's reply
Mae govannen, Nessa.
They are a small host, so I guess Shelob will fulfill the condition - that much I can tell you for now. :-) As for the angst you hope will come... your wish is my command, lol!
Thanks for reviewing.
RedSquirrel
· 2 March 2006
· Chapter 14: The Summons
After a very long week this was such a pleasure to find - this internet cafe is incredibly loud and uncomfortable, but for the last half hour you have taken me back to the Paths of the Dead, and I have seen or heard nothing else. Of course, when Celeborn didn't finish reading the inscription, it was clear that there would be trouble ahead. No quick and easy solution (and ending) to this story, I'm glad to note. Now what?? I'm sure I'm quite as baffled as the whole company. Maybe someone should go back and decipher the rest of the inscription...
I have to keep this very short, just wanted to send a quick hello from this incredibly different keyboard here in a very small internet cafe in Aswan. Can't wait to hear more of what this particular host is up to! Hope to be back soon - and find chapter 15 on top of my screen *hug*
Author's reply
Mae govannen, my furry friend - you're in Aswan?? Goodness - what are you doing there? And what DO you do when you are not looking for acorns? (:0 What an exciting life you must lead. Are you a 'nutty' professor, Rodent? :-)
It's lovely of you to read AND send a review from so far away - THANK YOU. *hug back* Because of that, I will try to have Chap 15 up by this weekend or early next week. Maybe someone SHOULD decipher the rest of the inscription... *rubbing chin* After all, the elf lord has committed it to his exceptional memory. Well, you will find out then what Celeborn intends to do about it soon. ;-)
Take care and get home safely.
Legolass