Reviews (84)

Leithian · 17 April 2025 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Hi Thundera! I first read this story a few ears ago, and was utterly captivated by the original characters (they live rent free in my head now). Arabano especially stands out, and so do Asbad and Dashnir. (Asbad is such a terrifying villain) Your Harad is such an exotic, and exciting place, and I greatly enjoyed all the descriptions of the tribal intrigues and politics. It is infact one of my favourite stories here on SoA. The last few chapters were so nail-biting, and kept me on the edge, even on the reread. It is really sad to see that so many years have passed, and there is little hope of an update. At this point, it feels like I'm talking to the wind, but in case you read this, I hope you are doing well wherever you are. I am grateful that you wrote this even if it is incomplete, it is such a gem of a story, and it explores an under-rated place in Middle Earth.

riemahen · 6 November 2023 · Chapter 38: Dregs

This is such an incredible story. I almost want to pick up the torch and finish it for the story's sake, but the plot lines are so intricate and the dialogue is so stunning that I don't think I'd do it justice. Gimli and Legolas' relationship is the best I've ever seen portrayed. Hope you are well dear author, and thank you for writing

Dinali · 28 April 2015 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Hey there author!! This story is fantastic! I love it, the detail, the descriptions the characters!! Everything ... I'm sorry I don't have long to leave a review. But I must insist, despite everything I love about it ... why the hell has it not been updated for the last TEN YEARS?? TEN YEARS! That is a very long time. Have you given up in the wonderful creation? Have you gone insane? It's as bad as having the Eiffel tower half-constructed!! I know I'm not the only one who has voiced this inconvenience. Please, please, by God and by the Valar I beg you to complete the story. Or are you a Peter Van Houten ( I hope you have read The Fault in Our Stars) who leaves stories to end at no significant point. Apart from that, do you write any original works? Your lotr fanfiction is amazing but are there any of your own stories? I'd love to read them. All in all, keep up the good writing! and end this story and our misery in not knowing of their fate. - Din.

Elenora · 30 May 2012 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Hello! Couldn't sleep and got to checking several unfinished LOTR stories for updates. This is such a wonderful, well-written story, I hope you haven't permanently put it on the shelf. That would be such a shame. Or is it writer's block that has reared its ugly head? Whatever the reason, I just thought I'd let you know that you still have fan-followers out here and this high-quality story is one of the reasons you do! :) I hope you'll be able to come back to it and bring everything to a heart-pounding conclusion!

Ashley B. · 12 July 2011 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Ohhhh man! I've been reading this story for the past couple of days and I am just awed by it! So many wonderful intricacies, I have loved every minute of it. Oh my goodness, the last chapter had me SO AMPED by the end!! WOW! Go freaking Legolas!! I have to say, even if this story doesn't see it's conclusion, it is so worth the time to read. I absolutely love it! Thank you for sharing this masterpiece of a WIP :) it will forever be one of my favorites. The interaction between Legolas and Gimli is so sweet and tangible. I'm off to read more of your wonderful writing. Thanks again for sharing, and I hope everything is well for you.

Adrianne · 3 June 2011 · Chapter 38: Dregs

I have just (for the umpteenth time) read this story again. I keep coming back and back and back to it even knowing I will be frustrated in the end. It is indeed haunting, my dear. I do not know what particular challenges you face in your life, be they family, job, personal, creative, etc and I do not wish to make demands of a true artist who may have other things more pressing and important than a salivating fandom, but I would add my voice to those who would like to see this magnificent tale resolved and Legolas released from his eternal night on the desert. I have read and enjoyed your others stories and have never been disappointed. But alas there is something about this epic that, perhaps in its very lack of completion, stirs the soul for heroic closure. If time, circumstance and your own desire permit, would you return to this story and at last assuage our gnawing hunger for resolution? Sincerely and with Respect, Adrianne

Bakoneko · 8 May 2011 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Just had to reread this. Oh, I love this story! Will you please finish it? I enjoy your more recent stories, but I would really love to see this one, Fear No Darkness, and During a journey in the dark... continue. Pretty please?

Erialo · 2 February 2011 · Chapter 6: Into the Desert

I am very much enjoying this story. Character evaluation is always so interesting, and I never grow weary of delving into these particular characters. It adds new interest to have their evaluations being done by someone who clearly got out on the evil side of his bed this morning. I appreciate how detailed your writing is, truly giving this a history. Love it.

Jet · 20 March 2009 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Hello, I normally do not leave reviews or comments on stories of Arda, but I cannot help myself now. There is a lot of "not-so-good"stories on this website, but you have got me mesmerized by this one. I could not put it away yesterday, could not concentrate on my work and was completely lost in Harad. My compliments for this story, I can't wait for the next chapter(s). Please finish it soon, because I really need to know what is going to happen to my favorte heroes. Best wishes! Hilde Verdijk The Netherlands

Rachel · 4 May 2008 · Chapter 38: Dregs

This story is simply amazing. You had me hooked from the first chapter, so much so that I stayed home today to read it all in one sitting (an undertaking which took up most of my night). Everything about this was wonderfully crafted; the plot, the intrigues, the OCs, and the canon characters' reactions to all of it. Your Harad seems to me a tangible part of Tolkien's world. I particularly love your use of the Black Numenoreans. Having Aragorn face a foe that possesses an eerie mirror of his own strengths is interesting, to say the least. I really hope you update soon!

Adrianne · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Brilliant! In this chapter you convey all the strength of the Elves and Dwarves in stunning clarity. But perhaps more amazing than that is that final moment when Dashnir looks into the Elf's eyes and has the sea longing awoken in him. Positively a stroke of genius. Afterall Dashnir is of Númenorean blood and they were people of the sea. I am enthralled with your portrayal of Legolas and Gimli. They are two of my favorite characters and their relationship cries out for exploration and discovery. You have done these two proud, my friend. Alas, no update on this story in nearly two years. I despair, therefore, of ever seeing this amazing tale reach a conclusion except in my own imagination, one not quite as fertile as yours I might add. How will Legolas extricate himself from this situation. Yes, he has had his revenge on Dashnir, but has he only wounded him or is the man dead? I cannot decided which would be more dramatic. And then there are the other members of Dashnir's search party still to deal with. Men on horse back, however. If Legolas were to somehow manage to get himself on the back of a steed, (something that I would not put beyond his ability, since he's already overcome insurmountable odds), chances are he could sing that horse into flying across the desert leaving all others in his sandy wake. And then there are Imrahil and his men. How far are they from where this harrowing drama between Legolas and Dashnir is taking place? Could they ride suddenly into view? I might need some of those maps discussed in another review. What of those back in Haradur? Will Elessar's 'something resembling a plan' put the final kink in Asbad's bid to become supreme power in the desert and thus all of Middle-earth? So many possibilities. I entreat you to not leave them all to my imagination. Certainly, this Unfinished Tale must haunt you, does it not? Or is it just me that it haunts? I do feel more fortunate than some others for I have only this past month been directed to this amazing tale, so I have not had to endure waiting with a worm on my tongue for your far between updates. With the patience of an Elf I will await with estel in my heart for the light at the end of this long, dark night.

Adrianne · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 37: From the Ashes

Another reviewer said that they found this chapter slow. I decidedly did not. There was too much going on and too much to be revealed. I relished and devoured it like chocolate! I like how Elessar can play the political word games right along with Harad's best leaders. It harkens back to all the experience he acquired in his early travels across the length and breadth of Middle-earth. All is travels and experiences were obviously a preparation for his becoming, arguably, the greatest King of Men in the history of Arda. Just as this experience and trial in the desert is refining Eomer and preparing him to become an even greater leader of Rohan. This entire story has been just captivating. I should be writing, but I'm reading instead. I'm moving on to the last chapter you posted and doing it with trepidation, not because I fear that it will not live up to my expectations, but because I know it's not the end of the story, and I see that you have not updated in well over a year. Hmmmm... I would, in this reply, beg you to hurry your next chapter along as quickly as possible, but who knows if you will even see my pathetic efforts to do so? If you have not posted in so long perhaps there are reasons for it that do not respond to such methods of persuasion. Maybe you will never complete the story, much to the consternation and sorrow of your readers. Whatever the reason for taking so long, I do hope (selfishly) that it will resolve itself and allow you to assuage our curiosity as well as our emotional turmoil.

Adrianne · 3 March 2007 · Chapter 13: Through a Glass, Darkly

So, it is as I have suspected. This darkness that has deprived Legolas of his Elven senses, is also affecting the others by attacking them where there greatest strength or weakness lies. Legolas' strength is in his heightened awareness and senses. Aragorn's keen discernment and ability to read motive have been hampered. Eomer's pride and comparative inexperience as a leader has been turned to his detriment. And yet here stands Gimli, unaffected. Why? Is it that the forces who wield this power are as yet unaware of how to gain advantage over a dwarf? Do they not realize where his strength/weakness lies? Or being of the very substance of Arda, are his kind immune to such controling influences? A very interesting puzzle you have set for us. I am enthralled.

Adrianne · 1 March 2007 · Chapter 11: Heritage

I guess now is as good a time as any to leave a review. I started reading this story (and in fact came to Stories of Arda) at the recommendation of my friend TithenFeredir. I will admit to being hesitent despite her very respected opinion. This is mostly do to a certain intimidation factor. TF has from time to time sent me little gems from this website to read and I have found the quality extremely impressive, both in authorship and in the knowledge of Tolkien's world. However, that said and being a Tolkien Fanfic writer myself, after reading said gems I often found myself saying, 'Why do I bother!' Something that TF chastises me for on a regular basis. 'Be inspired, my friend, not intimidated.' I finally broke down and decided to join Stories of Arda because many of the Tolkien fanfiction sites I've been to are iffy in quality at best. And this partictular story was recommended for very specific reasons, which I will not go into here. So, on with my review. I burned through the first 11 chapters without leaving any feedback because I could not stop reading. It's as simple as that. The only reason I have stopped now is that I sense really bad stuff on the horizon and need a breather to prepare myself for what lies ahead. Not that Legolas losing his Elven senses isn't bad enough. In fact it is down right painful to read. Your 'fleshing out' of existing Tolkien characters is amazing and spot on in my humble opinion. But what is more impressive is the writing of your original characters. You have created and developed characters that are every bit as fasinating as Tolkien's own, and fit them into Tolkien's world flawlessly. I am further amazed by your attention to detail, your development of a desert culture, your use of languages and a myriad of other knowledge that you sprinkle liberally throughout the story. This has been an intense and exciting read...and yes, intimidating. But at this point being intimidated by your talent and storytelling ability is the least of my concerns. I am totally captivated. I have not read your profile so I do not know what your background is and if it contributes to the amazing authenticity of your work. In any case, I see that you have done your research, both in Middle-earth and else where. A stunning piece of work. Adrianne PS: On a totally hormonal note, that scene where you have Legolas shoot the hawk out of mid-air from who knows how many leagues distance, knocked me out of mmy chair. "Did you doubt my aim", indeed.

Anonymous · 27 February 2007 · Chapter 38: Dregs

hey Thundera, so about that update....when did you say it was going to happen?

Aya_Shoru · 14 October 2006 · Chapter 38: Dregs

oh that was good, what happens next?

Noor · 13 September 2006 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Oh what a fabulous ending to this chapter! I have just read this and then realised that this tale has not been finished. I do hope you are going to finish it - it is gripping yarn although the politics are a little confusing. I have really enjoyed it and hope that there is a happy ending! Many thanks Noor

Delrauko · 18 February 2006 · Chapter 38: Dregs

its about bloody time Legolas did something to Dashnir! looking forward to the rest of the story! keep it up! :-D

child of the stars · 11 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Oh PLEASE review this story soon! I'm simply dyeing to read more and have been waiting far to long!!!!!

Nightwing · 3 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Dregs

(Nightwing picks up sharp pointy thing.) poke... poke... poke... All right, Thundera. It's high time you updated this puppy. poke... poke... poke... I do hope all is well with you; that you are healthy and RL is treating you well. I'll send you coffee! I'll send you sandwiches and bubble baths and a pretty little pony. poke... poke... poke...

Mordaen · 27 May 2005 · Chapter 38: Dregs

That is such an evil cliffhanger! What happens to Gimli and Legolas next?

Lera · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Ahhh, in spite of that cliffie, I am so happy to have been yanked into Harad again, pulled into the adventure. You have no idea how much I enjoyed seeing Dashnir realize that he had "yet again underestimated his opponent." For far too long, Aragorn and Eomer have been playing catch up, trying desperately to understand what is going on. Finally, finally, finally, the tables are being turned. I love the idea of using the sea longing for something like this. I imagine using it against people of the desert must be particularly effective, as it is so different and almost other worldly to them. People often ask me who my favorite character in LotR is. My answer changes every time I read the books or watch the movies. Well, it also changes everytime I read one of you chapters! You write Legolas and Gimli so well. Gimli is often neglected or almost typecast I think, as stupid, gruff and only there for comic relief. Legolas is almost as abused, as he's been kidnapped by Orlando loving teenyboppers. You write him as an Elf should be, strong, not to be underestimated, and with qualities that make him special. But not infallible. Not above being weakened by the elements. What's wonderful, is that he actually gets many of his special qualities from his friendship with Gimli. I do hope we won't have to wait long for the next chapter. :) I understood what you were saying about it being a bit rough, but I didn't think that detracted from the storyline at all. It rather fit, with how rough and ragged everyone was feeling. Thank you.

ziggy · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Wow. That last chapter was truly awesome. You write Legolas and Gimli particularly well- one the very best of fanfic around actually. And you keep going - which is brilliant.I need to join the pleas of other readers and BEG you to concentrate on finishing this one before Fear no darkness - although I love that too and am desparate to know what has happened to poor Merry and Legolas. Anyway, this last chapter just took my breath away with the excitiment and tension- what was so convincing is that it really did dawn on me what Legolas was doing at the same time as it did Dashnir- and I think it was the way you slowed that sentences down, and that gave the impression of time slowing... so @Dried blood that is' made me look down (as it is Dashnir's point of view) and slowly realise ...ah. Er. Whoops. And the reference to the veil lifting is, as I read it, like Legolas' lifting of the uglir that HE has sort of put on them through using the sea longing (that is such a fantastic idea!!) - and then Dashnir can realise waht he has done. And he was a bit smug in the previous chapter with Asbad so he does deserve if (if he hadnt already!) OK- this review is a bit of a witter but there is so much I want to say really- sorry. The way Legolas adapts to the u-glir is totally convincing in my view- so that even though he is sundered from the Song, he is still the same person, and an elf and rediscovering his strength is an important discovery for him- will make him stronger. The idea that he can use the sea longing is brilliant. The scene where he starts humming and then sings is wonderfully eerie - and its only when I printed out he whole stary to re-read this week that i really understood what a brilliant idea that is. (Yes, after picking up the last chapeter, i had forgotten a lot and wanted to read it agin- so printed out all whatever pages and sat in the garden thoroughly enjoying myself instead of cutting the grass, weeding the garden etc.Thank you!) THat scene makes me think of Jean Michel Jarre's piece, Equinox, which is a lovely piece of music and very haunting.What this scene does in particluar, along with the last chapter, is make yopu suddenly remeber how very 'other' Legolas is... elves of Mirkwood are so much more elvish and other worldly than other elves (not a trace of bias here of course ) but do you know what I mean? Rivendell is The Last Homely House and that makes it easier, but Mirkwood is dangerous, its elves 'more dangerous and less wise'. To me, they are more unpredicatable and a little more fey. In this, Legolas and Gimli's friendship is really explored- it goes beyond anything and it has to be like this for Gimli to ultimately give up Middle EArth and go with Legolas- of course, Galadriel is a big attraction too. BUt the notion of just keeping going, one step and another- is a bit like the Wal faced by marathon runners and then they get over that and get their second speed. And I have loved the way you have portayed Gimli in this- he really does get all the best lines - dwarven diplomacy. You can see why Eomer and Gimli would get along - there was one reference you made very much earlier about dwarven diplomacy but I cant find it- it was hilarious and much of this has made me chuckle. Having said that, not sure Legolas is that great at diplomacy- he has killed one and certainly, let's say, annoyed several others! Equally, your oc are unntterly convincing and I have become rather fond of Arabano and actaully, Asbad- even though he is a baddie!They are complete and different - but I have to really commnet on the culture that you have developed in Harad. The ways of the desert are totally convincing- it makes absolute sense that they should measure journeys in days riding rather than in distance. Did you pick that up from somewhere or is that your own idea? And the subtle politicking in Harad is just the way it should be- nothing really said, everything ambiguous and very cloak and dagger. The plot is utterly satisfying. Hope this helps to convince you to work on this story - I really cannot wait very long until we find out what has happened to Legolas - ooh- the bit when Dashnir says about the carrion eaters - a flicker of fear - it reminds me a little of The English Patient when the main character has to leave his lover in the caves to go and rescue her, but returns too late - it is a desparately sad story - but not the case here. I told you it was a bit of a witter. Will try to make more sense next chapter- will be soon I hope, really really hope!

docmon · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 38: Dregs

terrific chapter! you finally gave us some elf&dwarf time! oh, no, not complaining, no, not here. ;-) Legolas's despair and grief were so heartfelt, I really felt for him as he was forced to leave his friend. The sense that both Legolas and Gimli, but especially Legolas, were at the end of their endurance really came across ('dregs' of their endurance, perhaps?). Enough so that I fully believed at the end that he was struggling to stand upright. I had no idea he was faking, though I KNEW you would not be killing off our favorite elf. I was relieved enough to *almost* not hate the awfulness of the cliffhanger. Please update soon! We must know how Legolas gets himself (and Gimli) out of this! He may have injured Dashnir but he's still not out of danger yet! and we need to know how Aragorn's "something-resembling-a-plan" is going!

Estel_Mi_Olor · 7 April 2005 · Chapter 38: Dregs

Wow! Suspense! Nicely done, as usual! Let me see...absolutely heart-wrenching to read about Legolas' and Gimli's injuries. I know Gimli doesn't die...but... it is just so suspensful! Now I am rather confused...but I am sure you planned it that way to keep your readers in suspense. What happened with Legolas? One minute he was dying helping Gimli, the next he is attacking Dashnir. I do believe I have failed in comprehending something that will be explained in the next chapter. Or not, since you like to be suspensful, it will probably be explained in the chapter following that. Do you realize I might die from suspense? Or not...enough teasing, I really love the suspense. You write it so well! This is not predictable at all. I wish it were though...Well cheers and keep writing and update soon!