To See A World by Nightwing

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sofia · 29 January 2005 · Chapter 33: Safe No More

That was beautifully written! I really enjoyed reading it and it kept me wondering whats going to happen next. I agree with Legolas to not tell the captors of his blindness. I think that if they find out then it will give them even more trouble. Can't wait for the next chapter! -sofia

Author's reply

Hi, Sophia. Yes, we do not want the bad guys to find out about the blindness. I just hope I can continue to make it believable that they do not notice it.

Elenora · 29 January 2005 · Chapter 33: Safe No More

I've been woefully remiss in reviewing - for that, I apologize! Because while I haven't let you always know it, I've been thoroughly enjoying your story and anxiously await each and every chapter. The last one was marvelous and has left me literally on the edge of my seat, desperately wanting to find out what comes next...such power you exert over your readers! For being hesitant to start this chapter, you've done an excellent job describing the struggle between the invading men and Legolas and Aragorn. It was definitely better than many battle scenes/struggles I've read by other authors. I don't know how much of a pain or effort it was to write it, but I think you pulled it off successfully! So the effort was not in vain. It was fascinating to read how Legolas endeavored to get a grasp of what confronted him - seeking to quiet himself and not only hear what was occurring around him, but to analyze the subtle nuances of what those sounds implied. It was a struggle that, because of your excellent writing, I was able to visualize easily, making me wish I was not just reading it, but seeing in on the "big screen"! *GAH*, your story would make a great movie!! Wishful thinking, I know. Anyway, I highly look forward to the next installment - while I was able to get a grasp ahead of time concerning Legolas and the healing tips he picked up from Aragorn, now I'm thoroughly mystified as to where this story is headed...of course, I'm thinking that this black-haired man has had some exposure to Legolas in the past, and most definitely to elves, but I'm also wondering if there is some connection as well with what happened to Legolas's mother and her death. All that hasn't been brought up in a while, yet I can't help but think that it was there in the story for a reason...am I grasping at straws here??! Thank you for putting out one of the best fanfic stories currently available - it makes the fact that the trilogy is now a "past" event somewhat easier to bear. It's been hard to come to grips with the fact that this wild, exciting ride with "The Lord of the Rings" has finally come to its conclusion, but hopefully, with well-written stories such as yours continuing to appear, we can hold onto this excitement and fun for a bit longer.

Author's reply

It was incredibly difficult to write the fight, especially from Legolas' point of view. I could not use any visuals, and it was a challenge trying to envision the movements and how he would engage his attackers. It was without doubt the hardest chapter I have written so far. Nope, you are not grasping at straws. That aspect of the story has not been forgotten, and I will endeavor to tie things together as we descend into the city. Oh, I also am sad that the movies are at an end. They were such fun... the anticipation of heading to the theater with hoardes of other maniacs every December. It was like a big party. I agree that we write these stories in an effort to keep the fun going. I still hold out hope that someday they will put out a DVD of bloopers from the movies. I really am surprised that they did not do so. They'd be hilarious.

TithenFeredir · 29 January 2005 · Chapter 33: Safe No More

Ai, this chapter was worth the wait! You captured the desperate fear of that situation so well. The buildup as they wait for their attackers, looking for a way out and not finding it, having no time to really prepare. The moment of admitting their fear and briefly taking comfort in each other, especially since at that point it seemed likely they were both about to die. The fight was brutal, clumsy and messy; it was a hopeless effort, but so like our heroes to give it their all. Even handicapped as he was Legolas still seemed beautiful and deadly. Now I worry about his injury and what the man from Dale has in mind for him. Wonderful story! Please give us more soon! TF

Author's reply

Brutal, messy and clumsy? Good! Just the way a fight should be. And I'm so glad you thought the elf still managed to look fantastic. Of course you know his long golden hair was fanning our beautifully as he spun around, right?

Alison H · 29 January 2005 · Chapter 33: Safe No More

Oh, my goodness---where do I begin? I can't even think straight as my heart is still pounding from reading this update!! Congratulations, Nightwing, on a truly heart-stopping chapter.That Aragorn and Legolas have to fight unknown enemies who are great in number is terrifying in itself, but both Aragorn and Legolas are injured and I could not fathom either of them escaping.The fight scene was incredibly well done and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.Poor Elf and Ranger! Once again, I have to commend you on how you write the realtionship between Aragorn and Legolas--it's so believable.When Legolas told Aragorn to escape while he held off the enemy I smiled, because I knew there was a curt reply coming from Aragorn.Then, their embrace under the window before the fight began was so touching.I do love those two! The sinister man form Dale is too interested in Legolas for my liking.How will Alun deal with Aragorn and Legolas being captured.So many possibilities for this story! Thanks agin for updating and I look forward to the next chapter. Ali.

Author's reply

Whew! I'm delighted when people tell me they thought I managed to write a believable fight scene. It was giving me fits, I assure you. And I'm glad you liked the embrace. I debated about it for a while, but thought including it was the right thing.

French Pony · 29 January 2005 · Chapter 33: Safe No More

Well, that was exciting! It looks like we're about to get some answers, especially since this man from the Dales seems like the sort of villain who has a few soliloquies in him. There were a couple of touches that really made this chapter for me. The first was this: "Are you afraid, Legolas?" Aragorn asked quietly. There was no time for false bravado or impressive stoicism, nor had there ever been need for such trivialities in their relationship. Legolas drew in a long steadying breath as another blow shook the cabin to its foundations. "Yes." That right there says so much more about this relationship than all of the "I will not fear if only you fight at my side" bullhockey in the world. It takes a brave man (or Elf) to admit fear, and that wonderful touch of honesty shows just how thoroughly in sympathy these two are. That they trust each other so much is proof enough for me that they will be able to fight their attackers. And the other touch that really made the chapter was that they couldn't fight forever. They're both handicapped in so many different ways that there's no way they could get out of this victorious. I'm sure it hurt to do that to the Damaged Duo, but it was the only logical outcome, and you faced up to it squarely. Brava!

Author's reply

Hmmm, yes I expect this bad gusy will have a thing or two to say. I have to do some work on him. My small amount of free time will be spent trying to flesh him out a bit in my head, I don't want him to be your typical one-dimensional villain. I'm very pleased that you liked that moment between Legolas and Aragorn before it all went to hell. It is true to life to be frightened when attackers are about to bust the door down, strong and courageous though they may be.

Legolass · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Christmas has come and gone, and the new year is well under way, and.... I'M STILL HOLDING MY BREATH FOR THE UPDATE. *gasp* *gasp* *gasp* Begs begs begs....

Author's reply

Yikes! Breathe... breathe... the next chapter is well under way. Bad news: it is not done yet. Good news: it is well over twice as long as any of my other chapters. I am working on what I expect to be the last section, then off to my beta it will go. I am aiming for next weekend to update, but I cannot make any promises!

Muinthel · 4 January 2005 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

.....gee.... what a cliffhanger!!! I just love it....oh and yes I still got enough time for LotR! My husband takes care of out little son....so I can read and write! I'll stay with you and can`t wait for more chapters! More via E-mail!! Muinthel

Author's reply

Well, hello there new mommy! I do hope all is well with your family. How nice of your husband to look after the little one so that you can still undulge yourself in the world of LOTR. What do the big brothers think of the baby?

e_vrouw · 28 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Hi Nightwing, Great update! I wanted to review sooner but Christmas and a severe cold got in the way. :-( First of, the opening of this chapter was absolutely brilliant! :-D The first time I read it I nearly fell of my chair laughing. I love it! It sounds just like one of those arguments the elf and ranger would have without it actually being put into words. Though we do find out who the winner is: ;-) "the enraged elf had quickly declared himself to be the victor, for he would permit no other outcome." "So altered was the view from the window that he found it difficult to locate various features within it," Legolas won't have any problems finding things, even with eveything covered in snow. He can just walk over it and can't use his eyes anyway. I like the way you describe how Legolas finds everything he needs. The table looks completely cluttered but it's not for the elf. He uses a form of 'organized chaos'. YEAH! Tithlam is back in action. She's almost like Santa Claus, bringing gifts. Except this time their socks. Does she feel guilty about stealing them and is she trying to make up for it by returning them, or is it more like Legolas says: "She takes her self-appointed job as your nurse very seriously." I have noticed one thing. With all their plans of leaving they seem to have completely forgotten Tithlam. They take the horse with them but seem to have completely forgotten the cat. Would they have left her behind, or taken her with them? Though taking a cat with you on a long walk with a horse seems rather difficult. Again Legolas sacrifices himself. Not eating (or atleast sparringly) to save enough food for his friend to recover. I can not believe how thoughtfull and caring he is. And now the evil men come. And they only have Legolas and his knives to protect them. I don't think Legolas has retrieved his bow yet. It's too far from the house, he wouldn't have left Aragorn alone. I'm still hoping that help will come (like Alun or the wild men) or that the men that have arrived are not evil. But then why would they be 'surrounding' the cabin? Your cliffhanger is cruel!! Happy new year! e_vrouw GO TITHLAM!! Protector of (Aragorn's) Socks. P.S. My reviews seem to be getting longer and longer. Should I start editing?

Author's reply

Not at all. I love long reviews. I enjoyed writing the beginning of the chapter. The style was different for me, and I thought the humor came through pretty well. Yes, Tithlam is trying to be caring. She's based on a dog who gave me a sock one day when I was lying sick. And don't worry that the elf and ranger were going to leave Tithlam behind. They really didn't get a chance to finish their conversation. They certainly would have issued her an invitation. Evil men or good men? That's what cliffies are for...

EllyBaggins · 28 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

wow! i know i haven't reviewed for a while, but i am still with the story! this chapter was fantastic, especially "what the eye sees will always vanish, but what the soul sees can never be lost." that was the most perfect line! and the cliffy...i can't wait for chapter 33!!!!!

Author's reply

Hello Elly, and happy new year. You know, I should give credit for that quote to someone or something. I heard a variation of it years ago, and it has stayed with me pretty powerfully ever since. But I cannot remember where I heard it. If I were to take a stab at it, I'd say it's Taoist. As for the cliffy, I'm rather freaked out myself. Now I have a fight to write involving a blind elf, and I'm scared to death!

Alina · 27 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Thank you for yet another wonderful chapter :-) I really like the way you had Legolas change with his responsibilities - very believable to me. But the end of the chapter has me deeply worried - even though Aragorn is awake, neither of them is in the shape for a fight... I eagerly await your next update. I hope you had a great Christmas and I wish you a wonderful New Year. Alina

Author's reply

You are correct. They aren't in good shape for a fight. Keep worrying. All the blessings of the new year to you.

Catoblepas · 24 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

WHY haven't I read this yet. WHY? Thirty-two chapters posted, and I haven't noticed it ONCE! ARGH. I am not worthy... Nevertheless, it was a very nice way to spend three afternoons. Yes, yes, if you can't already tell, I am one of those sneaky readers that lurk about fanfiction websites with those nasty little habits of perusing everything without leaving reviews. My, my...When I put it that way, I sound like such an awful person. Shame on me. Maybe I'm just paranoid. Such a wonderful story, though, that it prompted me to comment. ...Actually, I'm just here to bother you into updating. Bother, bother, bother! Did it work? But, PFFFTHBBBT to you. ...That was intended to be some manner of tongue-noise, which is rather difficult to convey via the internet. You left me at a cliffhanger. Now I won't sleep properly for weeks. Darn you and your evidently diabolical literary style that draws the reader in with its seductively descriptive details and then drags the reader unwillingly (or rather willingly, in the case of angst-lovers like myself) to the edge of insanity with these dreadful cliffhangers which leave us clawing at the air for more. ...What a terrible run-on sentence. DIE GRAMMAR. ...But I digress. On to the story. ...FINISH IT!!!! But give us more Legolas angst. Lots more. Heh. Ah, that cat reminds me so much of my own...except that my cat would chew on the socks in a vain attempt to digest them rather than merely pilfer them from our dressers. Alas, alack, how WILL Aragorn manage to defend Legolas from those evil wizardy minion types with such painful lacerations to the hands? Time for Legolas to be captured! Or even better, time for BOTH of them to be captured! And...the horse can save them. Or the tree. Pff. This is why I don't write stories. Anyway, now that I have sufficiently wasted your time which could surely have been spent doing something constructive, I thank you for being such an enthralling storyteller. But update soon, for I fear my head might just explode with anticipation.

Author's reply

I know, I know! And I've been waving frantically at you for months! "Hey Catoblepas, over here!" So glad you found this story and it is to your liking. Your pfffthbbbt perfectly conveyed the proper noise. Worry not, the Legolas angst is far from over. Yeah, I don't know what it is with cats and socks. Thank God they don't go for the underwear.

Brenda G. · 24 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Well, I have not reviewed often but I have kept up with this story from the beginning. Let me say, that I am enjoying it thoroughly. You have done a very good job of writing this tale so that your reader experiences each scene along with your characters. The journey for Legolas has been a long and harrowing one. I was personally relieved to see him finally come to grips with his blindness. I don't count it as a surrender, but as an acceptance of what is and Legolas' attempt to make the best of it. He has grown in leaps and bounds from when he was first injured, and for that I applaud him. Of course, this IS Legolas we are talking about, so I would expect nothing less from our noble Elf. It is obvious that his ability to accept and adjust has now become the life force that will keep he and Aragorn alive. I love how he rips his twin fighting knives out and is ready to go toe-to-toe with whomever the enemy is surrounding the cottage. Personally, I think the enemy doesn't know what they are in for when one enraged, fiercely protective Elf is unleashed upon them, and never mind the fact that he is blind to boot! Yes, I am anxious for our friends, but I feel certain that all is well that ends well, and that this tale will end well for Legolas and Aragorn at some point. I hope the cat winds up where she should. She has quite a bond to Legolas now that I think would override any homing instincts she may possess, but you are the author and know best for our furry friend. I have four of them that share my home with me and my husband. Life wouldn't be the same without them. Well, this is wonderful stuff. I'm anxious for the next chapter, so I hope you will be able to find the time to appease the appetites of all your clamoring fans and post again very soon. Until then, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Nightwing!

Author's reply

Thank you!! YES, acceptance is not the same thing as surrender. I'm delighted that you recognise that. Legolas is strong, and I hope to show just how strong in coming chapters. I have two cats, and love them both to bits, even though they hate each other. The tale will end well, but first we have a bunch of baddies in the city to deal with. Thanks very much for your review!

TithenFeredir · 23 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Yes, another chapter! I agree with what has already been said about Aragorn's painful recovery,little Tithlam and her sock therapy,and the interaction between Aragorn and Legolas. I found Legolas' acceptance of his blindness rather sad, even though it seems to give him some peace. Now we have the mother of all cliffhangers! It's going to be agony waiting for the next chapter! As always, the story is wonderful. TF

Author's reply

I suppose it is somewhat sad that Legolas has accepted his blindness, but it really needed to be done. Staying so angry and despairing really takes a lot of personal energy that could be put to better use. Thanks for reviewing. I'm trying to stay on track with getting the next chapter out before we're all old and gray. Wait, I'm already old and gray. Yikes, I'd better get going!

Sheikan · 23 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

:withers: My gosh! What a darn cliffhanger!!! I hate to think how those two are going to serive this battle. x.x; And now this one here shall wait for the next chapter =] Happy hoilidays!

Author's reply

They'll do their best. As for winning...

Southwind/Windsinger · 23 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Yeah! Another chapter! I cannot find the words to tell you how much I am enjoying your story. I treasure each new chapter and plan on enjoying re-reading it many times in the future (yours is one of the few I copy so I can pull it out to read whenever I need a LOTR fix). Actually, I am quite sure your tale is fast becoming, if it has not already become, my favorite Aragorn/Legolas story. I certainly understand limited time to write, I find it hard to even find time to try to give a review or two! But, no matter how long it takes, please know that I am sure I am only one of many who are more than willing to wait, just as long as we know that the story will continue. I am torn with wanting to know how it all ends and wanting it to go on forever! And what a cliff hanger! Ack! Again, I am torn with wanting to hurry up and find out what is lurking outside, what is after our two battered friends, what the city has to do with it, their new friends and how they will be involved, and just having more wonderful Aragorn/Legolas chapters -- just the two of them, a horse and a cat. Sigh ------------ I am just loving every bit of this tale!!!!! Have a wonderful holiday! Can't remember which penname I used before so I included both (duh!)

Author's reply

You have used both names with me, so fear not. I know who you are. Mwahahahaha! Whoops. Sorry about that, I guess I have evil cliffie psychosis right now. Thank you so much for your wonderful words. They really do help to keep me going.

fadagaski · 23 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Ah, just what Legolas needed: the chance to take care of someone else, thus being forced to rely on himself. (HOORAY FOR SOLDIERS! They make life interesting. ^_~ )

Author's reply

They will make life very challenging for our elf and ranger.

Legolass · 23 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Oh Valar - what a cliffhanger! Thank you, Nightwing, for a new chapter, but now - I hunger for MORE, MORE, MORE! Even more than Christmas turkey! Have a great Christmas!

Author's reply

Thanks. I do have a full day of writing scheduled on Jan 3 (taking the day off work!), if the stars align properly. I hope to get a good start on the next chapter then.

Firnsarnien · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

*huge gasp* NO! NO FAIR! FOUL! FOUL! That is an EVIL place to put a cliffy! EVIL I tell you! E.V.I.L!!!!:P How could you?! Oh gawd! How long do we have to wait for another update to find out what happens to our two lovelies? *sob* How cruel! Here I was, all warm and fuzzy at how well Leggy is doing. How well he's adapted. How much he's accomplished in the time he's been blind. How peaceful he seemed up in the tree. Then, wham! No warning at all, they're here! I was so worried about if they'd take Tithlam with them when they left, I didn't even hear whoever it is surround Aragorn and Leggy. I guess I should take some comfort, neither did Leggy until it was too late. Oh, I'm dying to see what happens next, do hurry will ya? ;)

Author's reply

But I LOVE cliffies! The ending of the chapter was rather abrupt... my daughter's fault. I was told in no uncertain terms by the child to STOP WRITING, and so I very hastily scribbled that last bit and posted it. Not very skillfully done... I would have preferred to have given it more time, but I had none left!

Elwen · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Eeep!

Author's reply

Yipes! Me too!

Valto · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

:-O oh no! I knew it, I knew it! Just as things were looking up, they're attacked! You always keep us on the edge of our seats! I look forward to the next bit when you get to it :)

Author's reply

Yep, the baddies are here at last, after one and a half years of writing this story. Sheesh...

fliewatuet · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

What a lovely christmas present! I loved the chapter. I bet that Strider is one of the worst patients imaginable, but I am relieved that both he and Legolas are recovering well, even if their recovery is about to be cut short. Somehow, I am glad that those mysterious attackers are about to reveal themselves, but of course I would have preferred Legolas and Aragorn to be in somewhat better condition. At least the events will prevent them of having to abandon their shelter for now, though I doubt that their attackers will simply go away and allow them to stay ;-) Needless to say that the update has left me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails ... Merry Christmas and a happy New Year, fliewatuet

Author's reply

I'm afraid you are right about the new arrivals. They have not come up from the city bearing a "welcome to the neighborhood" gift. New accomodations have been arranged for them.

French Pony · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

The opening paragraph of this was so wonderful that it might just convince me to go and read some Jane Austen over school break. The kitty is bringing back all the socks! I guess she figures that mice would not be nearly as welcome. She's so great. I hope they take her with them when they eventually leave. Cats love their home territories, so she might not want to come, but she loves Legolas, too. So, they're healing, and getting better, and the chinook is starting to blow -- and the Bad Guys come a-knockin'. It's a good thing Legolas has found some more of his self-confidence, because it looks like that may be the only useful weapon they have left.

Author's reply

Wow! I am more than honoured to be compared with Jane Austen. I adore her. Tithlam does indeed love Legolas, and such a bond I think will remain unbroken, though it may become frayed for a while.

lwarren · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

Valar help us, a cliffie!! A wicked evil cliffie -- perpetrated by wicked evil men surrounding the cabin! Don't they have homes to go to? Townspeople to bully? *big sigh* You leave our boys in the most...interesting situations! :-)I suppose we can be thankful that the bag guys gave Aragorn a week to recover somewhat, and that Legolas becomes more confident by the day. I suppose we can "hope" for rescue from *friends* in the town or the hills....hmmmmm, one could even hope an elven King might be out looking for a missing son.....or one could come to the realization that the author just loves cliffies, served with heaping helpings of elf and ranger angst/pain/comfort and get over it!!!! LOL Once again, Nightwing, you have written so clearly of Aragorn's recovery and Legolas' continuing improvement that I felt like the proverbial "fly on the wall" watching everything unfold. Tithlam remains adorable in her capacity as a nurse for the ranger, who as a healer, should realize the healing power of the gifted socks!! Legolas did indeed need to feel needed...in the tension/fear of the moments of caring for Aragorn he just had to do what he needed to do and get past his blindness! He's much more capable than he give himself credit for, methinks! Poor Aragorn...fever, painful hands, then itching, tingling hands, can't walk, drowning in socks, kept abed by dire threats from of wild elf...what next? WHAT AM I SAYING?? WE KNOW "WHAT NEXT"! Great chapter, as per usual, Nightwing...update soon, else I die of suspense! :-) linda BTW, have a wonderful Christmas and a blessed New Year! Your readers, of course, will be holding their breaths, turning blue, biting their nails, haunting this site like sad ghosts of Christmas Past (perhaps that was a little over the top there...sorry! *walks off entreating the Valar to intervene on behalf of the elf and ranger*)

Author's reply

I do love cliffies! They keep me checking for updates with my favorite stories. Once when I was sick my roommate's dog brought me a sock, and I was so amazed by the kindness of the gesture (though in truth the sock was apalling) that it has stayed with me ever since. Sorry, no help is forthcoming from the Valar. Elf and Ranger are on their own.

sofia · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

that is a great ending. Legolas can take them. I have faith. "The have come," that is such a suspenceful, and kind of scary line. -sofia

Author's reply

Thanks! It remains to be seen just how well Legolas can do. I'm afraid Aragorn is going to be pretty useless.

daw the minstrel · 22 December 2004 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

So the attack comes at last. I was reading along thinking about how well Legolas was doing and then you snuck that in on us. Nice job, Nightwing.

Author's reply

I was actually forced to sneak it in by the howls of my impatient child, who was completely fed up with me working to finish off the chapter. I was rushed, and the ending was too abrupt. I didn't give it the time it needed, so I'm not entirely happy with it. Oh, if only I had hours and hours of time to devote to writing, instead of these little snatches of ten minutes here and there! Not the way to produce one's best writing. But I thank you for the compliment. Now, how do I deal with a blind elf cornered and forced to fight? Phew...