To See A World by Nightwing
EllyBaggins · 22 May 2004 · Chapter 22: White World
wow, the chapters r getting better and better! will the mystery of tithlam and the socks ever be unveiled? lol. oh well, aragorn and legsy have other things to worry about, right? evil army. evil snow. poor aragorn, poor legolas *sigh* what a perfect story...
OakWolf · 22 May 2004 · Chapter 22: White World
plink-plink-plink<(Sound of OWolf tearing up after reading new Chapter)That was way too sad about Legolas's braids.Oh the poor elfy,he doesn't deserve all these downers,shanme on you Nightwing!But Im going to retract that last part because I dont want a strike of your most excellent epic.Keep writing!We must know what's going on in the city,hopefully the 'incident'Aragorn saw wasn't Alun or Tarnan...
daw the minstrel · 22 May 2004 · Chapter 22: White World
Things certainly look bad in the city. Even from a distance, that was a brutal scene. But actually what I reacted to most was the idea that the cat would bring them dead mice. I just picked up 5 little mouse bodies from my garage this week. ICKICKICK
French Pony · 22 May 2004 · Chapter 22: White World
Ahh, nothing like being indoors on a nice evening while snow is falling! And that lovely, sharp, clean scent of snow on the air! And of course Aragorn is an idiot to keep letting the heat out. Wood fires don't actually provide warmth to an entire room, as my family discovered during a memorable ice storm in my childhood, and every little bit of closed door and sealed room is precious. I have to say, though, that, living in a cold climate (and soon to be moving just a wee bit even farther north), I take exception with your use of the word "bitter" to describe a temperature that's warm enough for snow to fall. We just had an exceptionally cold winter, and true bitter cold is when the mercury starts dropping well below zero on the Fahrenheit scale. When it's all the way up there around freezing and snow falls -- well, some of us would consider that a nice balmy day, 'long about mid-January here. Cats and their gifts! Legolas is right. One should never ignore a gift from a cat. Most cat gifts should be disposed of quickly, lest they start to smell. Of course I love horses. I used to be a ten-year-old girl. They did indeed get a late start if they're thinking about smoking meat after the first snowfall. Do they have a smokehouse, or will they need to build one of those? I like how you've provided two images of Legolas's transitional acceptance of his blindness. On the one hand, he's no longer braiding his hair. He knows that he's missing something essential to being a warrior, and he is acknowledging that change in his status. On the other hand, he's still looking after things that he hears, even though his eyes aren't working any more. The heart is beginning to accept what habit won't. Good for Aragorn for at least trying to get into that world. And suddenly, he looks down the hill and sees that the climactic scene from a Shirley Jackson story is playing in the town below. . . Tune in next time for the next thrilling installment!
sofia · 22 May 2004 · Chapter 22: White World
I love the little sock episode! That little city is a cruel place! Update soon, please! -sofia
TieAillin Alcarion · 22 May 2004 · Chapter 22: White World
I'm writing at 6 a.m. (I'm never up this early) with a migraine, so pardon me if this sounds like Lewis Carroll in places. ;-) I've been eagerly following this story, so this is really a review of the whole thing. There are a number of stories I follow. Some authors have a great plot but need help with grammar or punctuation; others appear to be channeling Tolkien. Your style is different than Tolkien's, but your writing is wonderful! I can really see the characters and their surroundings. They are perfectly in character to both the books and the movie; their dialog rings true. Now to some specifics: the Tolkien scholar, Medieval and Rennaissance scholar, and traditional nutritionist/medicinalist in me have conspired. ;-) I'm wondering if the bark (probably willow, I'm guessing?) is actually preventing Legolas from regaining his sight? I know when my kids are sick I don't give them pain relievers so that their bodies can overcome the illness. I wonder if the poison is causing a reaction in Legolas' sight center that his body needs to react to in order to heal it. The traditional nutritionist in me says that Legolas needs to have food that will strengthen his nervous system and rebuild the myelin sheaths of the nerves in that area. That would be foods high in A, D, and omega 3's. He will get that from fish liver oil (not likely he can get it here), fish roe (a possibility later in the winter if there is a salmon run), and the organ meats especially of pasture fed grazing animals (a distinct possiblity if Aragorn can get a few deer). His cellular membranes need plenty of calcium. Are they high enough up that they are getting glacial runoff? Or can they somehow get milk? The raw milk (they wouldn't heat it; no one ever thought of ruining it that way until this century) will contain antibodies and immune factors that could also help the lingering effects of the poison. As a real-life testimony, both my and my daughter's severe allergies have been almost entirely alleviated by drinking raw milk. Elves, with their centuries of living, would know these things (as most non-westernized cultures now know them). I love Legolas' response to the weather, BTW. You can't change it, so why fret? Enjoy it for what it is! It's a great attitude to life in general. Smiles, TieAillin
Alina · 22 May 2004 · Chapter 22: White World
Your story just keeps amazing me. Your descriptions, your details, your attention to character development and most of all your refusal to let yourself be rushed make this such an exceptional read. I´m happy about each and every update, this is a joy to read!!! OK, that had to be said. As for the contents, it does certainly not look like a quiet winter. Should anybody come close to the cottage, their tracks will now give them away - not a good thing, I imagine. I cannot wait to find out more. Alina
Elenora · 17 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Freedom Rider
Alas, once again I've been woefully remiss in getting reviews to you, although I've been following your story faithfully and enjoying it immensely! The last couple of chapters, in particular, were truly enjoyable and very, very interesting to read, coming from a relatively new archer's perspective (I started in on the sport last August). Sometimes after a session with my bow and arrows, I feel just like Legolas during his blindness...nothing went where I wanted it to go!!! Anyway, while those sections of your story particularly intrigued me, I also loved the "horse" sequence....what a wonderful visual that made! And Aragorn's reaction was - well, simply priceless. I loved it and I'm running out of ways to tell you that. You've really done a neat job of portraying Legolas's and Aragorn's friendship and it is one of the most appealing things about your story...and one that's had me recommending your story to every LotR fanfic fan I know. I'm hoping that is being reflected in your reviews. Thanks for the great read and I'm looking forward to the next chapter, Elenora
e_vrouw · 16 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Freedom Rider
Hi Nightwing, Sorry, I'm a bit late with my review this time. I love the way you describe Legolas' connection to nature. The way he calms Firestar by singing to him and the way he somehow 'talked' to trees in the previous chapters. I actually had a bit of a discussion with someone about that. The question was if Woodelves (like Legolas) have a different connection with nature than 'city' elves (like Elrond and his sons). I think there's a difference but I wonder what you think? My favorite line: "The ranger regarded the elf in silence for a moment, and decided that he was improving in his attempts to appear sighted." I was wondering about that, wether he was improving or not. You're title name was perfect! Freedom Rider. I think Legolas feels his blindness is somehow hindering him, keeping him from being who he once was. Now that he's rediscovering things he once could do, his confidence returns and he feels free again. Snow is falling! YEAH! I like snow! Although I'm not sure Aragorn does. :) Hope you update soon! Tithlam is back! I absolutely adore that cat. I'm thinking about starting a fanclub. ;D
LKK · 11 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Freedom Rider
I'm sorry that I missed reviewing the last chapter before this one came out. But I wanted to say that I thought the blindfold idea was a stroke of genius on Aragorn's (and of course, your) part! Now to this chapter ---- there is only one word to describe it: exhilerating! What a wonderful display! Not just by the elf and the horse, but your writing too. You caught the scene so well. I thought I was right there, speechless like the boy. Not only was the ride itself fantastic but so was the build up to the ride. Even elves need to break a wild horse in order to ride it. And I think you've perfectly captured how an elf would break him. (I hate to use the word "break" because it's so inoppropriate for the elven process, but I have no other word for the situation.) This is a thrilling chapter to read, full of the joy of life. Fantastic!
Alina · 10 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Freedom Rider
Such a beautiful chapter! I felt truly happy for Legolas and his achievement. He´s not a "horse whisperer", he´s a "horse singer" ;-) I´m glad that he seems to come to terms with his situation, even though story-wise I fear this may lead up to more trouble - Aragorn, beware! That you shoot a bow yourself explains a lot! I also shoot off the hand (for the same reason as you do - I don´t want to be able to draw and hit because I was aided by some device on the bow) but I do use finger protection. At first I did not but the resluts were rather painful. Weak human... Anyway, I´m looking forward to your next chapter. This story of yours is truly exceptional. Alina
daw the minstrel · 10 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Freedom Rider
Legolas is a horse whisperer! Perhaps most elves are -- the elvish way with all good beasts and all that. It's great to see his confidence rising again. I have a feeling he's going to need it.
Kitt of Lindon · 10 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Freedom Rider
I'm so glad Legolas has his confidence back. (Did I say that before? Oh, well.) I knew he'd be able to ride Firestar, yes, knew it the whole time. *over exaggerated innocence* Ok, so I was a bit worried. Ah, and you described Firestar in such a beautiful way! (Now I'm envious of Legolas for being allowed to ride him.) You’ve been building up to this point, the snows, and they have finally came. Good, dramatic way to end the chapter.
Lossenchristal · 10 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Freedom Rider
Is there anything more beautiful than an elf on a horse??:)Yes, a blond elf on a chestnut stallion!;) I knew Legolas would have no trouble with Firestar. He is an elf, and elves can talk to animals. A beautiful chapter! Thanks! Please update again soon!:) Namarië, ~Lossenchristal
Ithildin · 10 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Freedom Rider
Nightwing, I am really enjoying your story – every chapter. It is very well written. I can only echo the many accolades that fill your previous reviews. I loved the scene where Legolas gets acquainted with the horse and then (naturally) enjoys the thrilling rides without incident – a beautiful scene to imagine. The reactions of the onlookers before the ride were great, too: the boy’s impatience, Alun’s doubt, Aragorn’s worry, Legolas’ confidence; followed afterwards by elation, admiration, relief and joy for the Elf’s success. Two nice happy chapters in a row – ooo – time to get nervous now. ;) _____ " ‘Let us hope for a soft winter, my friend.’ ‘And an uneventful one,’ Legolas added.” _____ Not a chance. Leggy. Anxiously awaiting each update. Ithildin *(
French Pony · 10 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Freedom Rider
Horsies! Aragorn need not have worried. I think riding is used today as therapy for the blind, and when you add in the Elvish Way With All Good Beasts (EWWAGB), it's a natural thing for Legolas to be doing, even more so than archery. And it's interesting to see what Aragorn does and does not know about the body. He's a healer, but at this stage of medicinal history, an observational one only. He thinks that balance comes primarily from the eyes, because it seems logical. You see, and then you orient yourself. It seems that people in Middle Earth have not yet discovered the tremendous role that the inner ear plays in balance. I suppose a few good inner ear infections might have taught them about that, but maybe they haven't put that particular two and two together. But blind people can and do ride, proving that balance does not depend on having functional eyes. Now that Legolas is adjusting to blindness, it would be interesting to see what happens if his vision returns. The disorientation would be greater than he would anticipate, and probably very amusing to read about. But it seems that this is the only way to go now. To adjust, to go with the flow, knowing that the only way out of difficulties is to go through them. It looks like Legolas is going to have to endure every bit of his disability before something happens. I seem to keep a bunch of people on their toes. I don't mean to do it, but it just kind of happens. You know you're in for it when a response begins, "Ah, French Pony." I've had Elves swear by taking Elbereth's name in vain. I think "Sweet Elbereth on a crutch!" was the strongest oath I've used with them thus far. Men might use more scatological curses -- those are always good for a laugh.
fliewatuet · 5 May 2004 · Chapter 20: Slings and Arrows
The blindfold was a neat trick to deal with Legolas' blindness and his fear of discovery. And it made his performance all the more impressive. That's what I love about Aragorn; I have always seen him as quite resourceful. Though I cannot really share his fears about Legolas' riding that horse. He is an Elf after all and, blind or not, is suppose to have a gentle way with all good beasts:) fliewatuet
Ithilien · 3 May 2004 · Chapter 20: Slings and Arrows
Lamiel and I in cahoots? Well, yeah, on some things. But on how to review your story? No. No. Let's just say "great minds ...yada yada". As for the look ahead, well, it's one of my failings, I think. I tend to see potential plot bunnies and anticipate what is to come. Ask Thundera Tiger or Maggie sometime. They'll tell you how wacky some of my predictions have been. I loved the insight into an archer's mind. I had no idea all that was going on up there. I guess I just thought, aim and shoot. Wrongo! Thanks for setting me straight. What a great solution to an awkward situation! A blindfold, eh? But what is Legolas' thing about keeping his blindness a secret from the boy? Is he afraid of being pitied? Is he afraid the boy's respect will be compromised? He is probably right to all the above, but won't he incur distrust and hurt if (when) the boy finds out? Uh oh, I just had another one of those glimpses into the future. Will the boy have to battle with his trust because Legolas was deceptive? Augh, first the horse for the great escape, then rebuilding trust with the boy. Yep, that's me. If I'm anywhere near right, do I get a cookie? Speaking of the horse, will you be giving us a peak at how that went? Even in flashback? And if so, could you have Legolas take his shirt off while he's doing so? One track mind here. I guess it IS a hormone thing (Troy in how many days?), or maybe a certain preoccupation I've had lately with getting the elf naked. Anyway, do what you can. And if not, heh, I'll do something about it on my own. *snicker* Go me. Better yet, go you!
Lossenchristal · 3 May 2004 · Chapter 20: Slings and Arrows
Go Legolas! Champion Archer, sighted or blind!:) I really appreciate the way you make your story realistic, and not happily ever after. Sure, I would have loved to have Legolas hit every shot perfectly, but it is much more realistic to have him miss a few shots and have to concentrate hard. The blindfold was a stroke of genius! I loved it!:) I was thinking that Legolas was going to have to tell Tarnan, but when he walked out with the blindfold, I could only echo Alun in saying, "Clever!" A very good and happy chapter, now for the fiery stallion!;) I can't wait! Please update soon!:) Namarië, ~Lossenchristal
grumpy · 2 May 2004 · Chapter 20: Slings and Arrows
great chapter, the blindfold was a good idea, even if Legolas is getting better with the bow. I would have suggusted that Aragorn paint the arrows blue, but he most likely did not have any paint anyway. Looking forward to see how Legolas did with the horse
e_vrouw · 2 May 2004 · Chapter 20: Slings and Arrows
Yes! I knew he could do it! Legolas is an archer again. :D I never would have thought of Legolas hiding his blindness by wearing a blindfold. That's just brilliant! Talk about hiding something in plain sight (metaphorically speaking). :) You're really good at creating those kind of difficult situations for Legolas and then thinking up a trick or ruse. Like you did with Legolas following sound with his eyes so that he wouldn't appear blind. I absolutely love the scene where he greets his audience and you finally find out what's going on. Why Aragorn is so confident. Did you think of the blindfold in advance (when you were writing the previous chapter) or did you just woke up one morning and thought: "A Blindfold! That's it!" ? You know I noticed something. You didn't mention if the first arrow he shot, the one from the cliffhanger, if that hit anything. Did it? Legolas really is taking those painmedicines a lot. I wonder if they have enough to last them the winter. You mentioned them looking for food and firewood but not medicinal herbs or something similar. It would be really bad if they ran out of medicine. Still love your chapternames. Keep up the good work! Hope you update soon! No cat.... :.(
Alina · 2 May 2004 · Chapter 20: Slings and Arrows
Thanks for the cookie! *happily munching away* How could one not get nervous? Oh well... Thanks for yet another wonderful chapter. The idea with the blindfold was perfect, and Aragorn was not the only one happy to see Legolas as the archer he really is. Well done! I loved the descriptions of the archery practice, shooting with bow and arrow myself. You even picked up on the fact that Legolas is shooting without finger protection - note that the Elves at Helms Deep do in the movie. I thought that was a bit weird. Apparently Legolas had especially tough fingers. *smirk* And his arm protectors in the movie are downright dangerous, with the hooks on the INSIDE - but then, he seems so perfect he may never need them. Just as a sidenote, if he does hold the bow in the wrong way and the string hits him his arms will be bruised for days (well, less because he´s an elf)...But he won´t notice, I guess ;-) Now I wonder whether he´s going to overestimate his abilities with that horse - I hope he doesn´t break an arm, bad for shooting! Thanks again, this story is truly wonderful!! Alina
Alisha B · 2 May 2004 · Chapter 20: Slings and Arrows
As I said many chapters ago, I love your story and will continue reading till the end! Even though I don't review every chapter, know that I'm enjoying it. Well, I'm in a particularly happy mood tonight, and I know how much authors love reviews, so here you go! *G* Keep up the good work!!
OakWolf · 1 May 2004 · Chapter 20: Slings and Arrows
Wonderful,just wonderful.'Love the blindfold idea,but have to wonder if Tarnan will find out...very nice about"a long stint of piecing together broken elven bones lay before him" Surely you wouldn't smash our darling elf?? .
French Pony · 1 May 2004 · Chapter 20: Slings and Arrows
Picking up the bow after several months off and shooting for nine hours with no aching muscles to show for it? I suppose that's an Elf for ya. And Aragorn is most gracious about picking up the arrows. Too bad one got broken, though. Now Legolas has, what, three left? Maybe Aragorn might make him a replacement and complete his penance. Or it could be pre-penance for the disaster that the bread is sure to be. Ah, so you, too, have experienced the weird property about aspirin, that it only works if you take it before the pain starts. That's a pain in the butt, that is. If you take it too soon, you'll wonder if you really needed it, and if you wait till you really need it, it does no good. I'll bet the kid has figured out about Legolas's blindness. He seems like a smart kid, and most kids are pretty perceptive about things like that. But he is polite not to mention it until Legolas is comfortable. And he's still got the grownups fooled, too. So far this chapter, we have a very happy state of affairs. This spells trouble. But at least Legolas can hit a large stationary target with something to make noise on it. It's a start. Interesting to hear how he calculates precise angles and variables. I'm sure that he doesn't think of it in the precisely measured way that you describe, what with yards and feet and degrees of angle, though. It must be, for him, more of an amorphous, "adjust to here," "stand far enough back so that the rustling leaves sound like this," "raise my hand so it feels like this," kind of thing. You know when you've gotten really good at something physical when you can feel in your body when you've got just the right form. It's all calculation, but it never seems like it at the time.