Reviews (782)

EllyBaggins · 21 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Toil and Trouble

this is fantastic so far, and i really can't wait to find out what happens next! i wonder if Aragorn really does snore...

EllyBaggins · 18 February 2004 · Chapter 4: In the Arms of Love

absolutely brilliant! Now wonder you're exhausted! but i can assure you, this chapter is worth the exhaustion, it's really incredible. i loved Aragorn lying on the hay, and how only Legolas' breathing would wake him! Very, very well done.

Sofia · 13 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Toil and Trouble

really good story. I laughed when they where discusing the cats name, among other parts. I hope the next chapeter is up soon!

Muinthel · 12 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Toil and Trouble

What a great chapter again....! I still giggle with the thought of Legolas slaming into the tree and mimicing Aragorn being a protective hen. Imagening the two preparing everything for the winter like everybody, lets someone almost forget how they ended up there. I like it that Legolas still has pains. It is like a glimpse of hope. The blindness has a cause and hopefully someone (whoever) will be able to help him in a -hopefully- not to far away future. I just love the way how Legolas tries the first time to not appear blind, and how Aragorn reacted on it....and the discribtion of the beauty of elveneyes. That really touched me and I read that passage a couple times. You really got "nicly around the curb" (typical german saying) at the end of the chapter to bring so much tension in the story....for it was hard on the edge that everything was too smooth, too easy going. (I hope you get what I'm trying to say!) And what a BAD cliffie at the end.....so can't wait for your update!!!

tmelange · 11 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Toil and Trouble

Uh-oh! I'm getting worried... Great continuation. More soon, please.

Kitt of Lindon · 11 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Toil and Trouble

Since I didn't see this at Undying Tales, I could not help but to read this chapter here, and it is yet another satisfying chapter. Your gift of writing stunning detail never ceases to amaze me. Legolas keeps trying to be independent but doesn't always succede...it is good that you don't write him as too super human, uh, if you know what I mean. He sticks to the 'if you fall off a horse you have to get back on' saying. That stubborness certainly keeps him in character. The bit you put in about Arwen being too old for Legolas was a very good touch. Most authors tend to make Legolas as old as her or overwise make it not matter on their age difference. But over 2,000 years is really alot and when you think about it (even for an Elf). So I find it nice that you point that out. Ah, and Aragorn snoring...it is a wonder that Legolas can stand to live with him. But you change smoothly from humor to drama with those approaching horsemen. Oh, I can only sit in awe of your talents. Can't wait to see what happens.

LKK · 11 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Toil and Trouble

It was great to see Legolas' growing independence, Nightwing. I loved the way you showed him pushing himself to take on new challenges. What made Legolas' growing independence convincing was that he rarely succeeded on the first try. No one, not even an elf, will succeed at every new task the first time they try it. His first failing attempts made his eventual success believable. In the world of Middle Earth, I can understand why Legolas would not want strangers to know that he is blind. I'm glad he doesn't plan to hide his blindness from family and friends though. Aragorn was right; he wouldn't be able to do so anyway. This may seem strange, but in a way, I was pleased to hear that Legolas' head still hurt him. I hope that is a sign that perhaps his blindness isn't permanent. Of course, it could be a sign that things could get worse. But I prefer to be an optimist. Horsemen approaching .... tension mounts .... I guess the adventure is about to pick up again! Another fine chapter :-)

Fadesintothewest · 11 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Toil and Trouble

Oh dear, just as Legolas got his bearings, men come to cause trouble. That is a mighty cliff hanger you have left us with. I love Legolas and Aragorn's relationship- the bit about the snoring was too funny. I could imagine Legolas covering his ears, trying to block out the sound of Aragorn's undoubtedly loud snoring. Legolas' mastering of the surroundings around hims is an extraordianry feat, and that he is mastering how to appear "unblind" to those who do not know him is amazing. And will probably come in handy really soon I suspect

French Pony · 10 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Toil and Trouble

Pony is happy that there is more story to read! The level of detail in your story is just completely engrossing. I do so love details. I am happy to lose myself in all the little minutiae of preparing a house for winter (thatch, netting, stones, all so precisely described) and of Legolas testing himself and regaining his independence. I appreciated that he was not able to do everything perfectly the first time he tried. The bloody nose from running into the tree was certainly not pleasant for him, but it did serve to show that life is still difficult when adjusting to a handicap, even if you are a gifted Elf. Legolas shows a charming lack of creativity in naming animals. The observations are wonderful; all the little notes about the physical alterations in posture that mark blindness, even if the eyes are whole, those are great. The one critique I have about this is that you overuse the passive voice. As a general rule, active sentences are much better to read than passive ones, and all my English teachers agreed that one should avoid the passive voice whenever possible. Since they didn't agree on much else, I'm inclined to take this advice pretty seriously.

Ithilien · 16 January 2004 · Chapter 12: Songs in the Key of Life

Late again. Sorry. Sorry. But in time to deliver this before your birthday, so happy birthday a couple days early (though this is not your present -- ha! I have something better planned). Well, I am delighted to see Legolas asserting himself, but I'm also eager to see this story move forward. I can see we needed the slow build so we could appreciate the recovery, but now I'm looking forward to more of the meat of this story. I am saddened too that Legolas does not appear to be regaining his eyesight with his healing. Hmmm…this really has me baffled. I'm wondering more and more if his blindness is a physical state, or a mental one. Where are those medieval MRI's when you need them? This chapter was lovely, a quiet reflection on the angst of his blindness. The tree was good counsel for his pain -- I found in it the strength of age and limitation, and I like to believe it was a symbol for the solid resolve of Legolas' soul (the tree told him of old pains but proved to him that one can overcome). But better still, this chapter was optimistic, because it showed us (though I was as nervous as Aragorn at first) that a blind elf can still do much. And I am adoring little Tithlam and the role she is playing in his life. Now, more story please! I eagerly wait.

LKK · 14 January 2004 · Chapter 12: Songs in the Key of Life

Phew! My heart leaped into my throat when Legolas jumped from the tree. What in Middle Earth was he thinking! What if there were other branches below him? What if the ground below was uneven? What if he landed on the cat?! Still, it was good to see him take the initiative. Every day I discover what a blind elf cannot do. Perhaps it is time to find out what he can do… A very nice line, Nightwing. Legolas seems to have reached a major turning point with regards to his disability. (Although I'm still hoping he won't have to accept it forever!) The image of Thranduil drinking tea alone in his wife's garden was heart-breaking. Made even more so by the simplicity of your one-line description. Great job, Nightwing! LKK

French Pony · 8 January 2004 · Chapter 12: Songs in the Key of Life

Hello, 'tis me! Sorry I'm so late about sending you this. I've been kind of busy this last week or so, and I didn't want to shortshrift you on a review, so I waited until I had some time to sit and write something real, for I much enjoyed this chapter. Legolas sorely needed the alone time in the tree, and not just for the benefits of climbing. I think he needed to be away from Aragorn for a while, free of being taken care of. He has every right to some self-pity, but he doesn't seem to be the sort of person to mourn his loss when someone is around. And Aragorn is always around. It's funny; you don't think of sight as something to grieve over -- after all, if you are blinded by poison, at least you are still alive. But it is a loss, and a profound one at that, and I think people are always blindsided by how much they can grieve over something like that. And grieving is a process, it just drags on and on until it ends up in little fits and spurts. It's scary because it's beyond your control, but Elrond was very wise to point out that the only way out is through. And at the end, there is the realization that Legolas is still connected to the world, albeit in a changed way, which I'm sure is a great comfort to him. It's probably what brought his appetite back (a sure sign that something has begun to heal). And now we learn that Elves count echolocation among their talents. The kittycat continues to fascinate and delight.

Theresa · 4 January 2004 · Chapter 12: Songs in the Key of Life

This is a marvelous story. I hope you continue. Thank you for writing.

Muinthel · 4 January 2004 · Chapter 12: Songs in the Key of Life

....It is just the right story I needed today to chear me up!!! Some parts reminded me strongly of "my oak" and the meetingpoint under the oak, which Legolas and his mother planted....:-)!!!! I like it, that you give Legolas again time to face his sorrow and also his anguish. That seams just so logical....how could he manage this new situation in such a short time, compared to his lifetime and his dependence on his sight. - "Pain cannot be skirted. When it comes to you, take the direct path and walk. Walk through it until you reach the other side." - that is so true!!!! It is wonderful how much wisdom and insight Legolas gets fom the tree. He memorises many things and sees the things he can be grateful for....and also reaches the other side of pain in some ways. And finally he can get rest again....finally he sleeps and gets new strength. The jump on the end is like he freed himself....that was excelent written!! And like always...I just adore the way you discribe their friendship!!!

Fadesintothewest · 3 January 2004 · Chapter 12: Songs in the Key of Life

Good luck with your new job! It was wonderful to read about LEgolas enjoying the song of all living things again. Hopefully this is a start for the emotional and spiritual recovery he needs.

frodo16424 · 2 January 2004 · Chapter 12: Songs in the Key of Life

Really enjoying your story. I like your characterization of Legolas and Aragorn. Both seem true to life, and very natural. Loved the idea of Aragorn knowing when to be there for his friend, and knowing when to let Legolas be on his own. Will be watching for updates.

Muinthel · 30 December 2003 · Chapter 11: First Steps

Hi....Nightwing! It's me from the old world....:-)! I found your message and tried to reach you....did you get my mail? Your newest chapter is just lovely and made me smile alot. I like the new name for the cat better...even though I grinned evily about the first!! I think you just hit the spot again, showing in few words the deep and depending relationship the two have.....well there is nothing like a real "men-friendship".

Fadesintothewest · 26 December 2003 · Chapter 11: First Steps

Crazy here with the holidays and family, but I had to sneak in cathing up with your story! As always, loveley, and I was so moved by Legolas'and the oak tree. Hope your muses cooperate!

Shaan Lien · 24 December 2003 · Chapter 11: First Steps

Absolutely wonderful, though I think I've already read it. I just realized that. Please post quickly, I eagerly await the next installment. I'm glad you didn't make Legolas incredibly prideful, that I find quite annoying.

Lossenchristal · 24 December 2003 · Chapter 11: First Steps

Hi, I just read your whole story. I love it! There seem to be a lot of Aragorn/Legolas stories going right now. Yours is one of the better ones. It is a little disturbing to have Legolas blind, but it IS a new twist that no one else had thought of yet. Please make him better soon though! I don't know how much more I can stand of him being so helpless!:( It is so sad! Keep it up! I can't wait for the next installment! Namarie! Lossenchristal

LKK · 24 December 2003 · Chapter 11: First Steps

I love Squeaky's Sindarin name. Congratulations to you and Ithilien for coming up with it. :-) I know that I've missed a couple of reviews for chapters. My apologies. It was circumstances in my world that kept me from writing. Nothing to do with the quality of your story or your writing. One of the things I love most about your story is your pacing. You let things that should take time take time, if that makes sense. For instance, after revealing that the orcs who killed Legolas' mother were nearby, many writers would have immediately sent the elf on a mission of revenge. But instead, you have held him back because he hasn't recovered properly. And that is how it should be. You're taking the time to allow both of them to adapt and adjust to their new circumstances. I appreciate that. Plus I like the small details you give to their daily life. Oh! And I loved Legolas' comment about how he always regarded Aragorn as unusual but suspected the he was "the Strange One" this time! :-) A wonderful chapter, Nightwing, preceeded by equally well done chapters that I should have also reviewed. LKK

LOTRFaith · 24 December 2003 · Chapter 11: First Steps

Hello there! Another lurker coming out of the shadows lol. I really, really like your story. It is very well written, though poor Legolas! I do hope he will get his sight back. :-D Merry Christmas! Namaarie~ LOTRFaith

French Pony · 24 December 2003 · Chapter 11: First Steps

Oooh, it's back! I wasn't really sure how long you took generally to put out more story, but I am well prepared to wait. This continues to be a good, strong, patient exploration of changed circumstances. I love the way you describe every bit of Legolas and Aragorn's journey in adjusting to sudden blindness, especially since there are no therapists or trained personnel around to guide them through. They've got to do everything for themselves and figure out what they need as they go along. The detail about counting paces between points A and B, and the problem of walking drift (and how many of us sighted people would even think of that?) bring this process to life in all of its slow, frustrating glory. Now, as to the problem of Legolas being able to follow sound but not walk in a perfectly straight line -- He does seem to be able to perceive "voices" in the natural world around him all through the Trilogy. I wonder if it might be appropriate to place different natural items with their own "voices" at important points. I wonder if he could "hear" a potted plant calling. The horse might prove useful as well. Horses have good memories for direction, and while there is no seeing-eye dog around, a seeing-eye horse might be an acceptable substitute. Right now, the murder mystery is of secondary importance to me -- we've never really met either the old man nor the townspeople, so they're far less real than Aragorn and Legolas, who are brought to life in such stunning roundness. But clearly the murder mystery is important to them, so I will follow what they follow. It's also nice to see how perspectives change -- Legolas, an Elf, thinks that Aragorn is strange, while the human townspeople think that Legolas is strange. It all depends on how you look at it, I suppose.

Orophins Dottir · 23 December 2003 · Chapter 11: First Steps

What a lovely holiday treat! This has become one of my favorite stories. The blindness is overwhelmingly sad but it is none of this "torture the elf" genre of writing. Something that is very plausible and could happen. I love the cat and am glad you gave her a dignified name. As the owner of two elvencats, this is most important. They can become sulky if called Squeeky. They have too much dignity! I thought the part with Legolas seeking comfort from the trees was perfect. Aragorn's trepidation at the idea and still letting him go was also good. Keep writing! (Dare we hope for an update before the New Year?)

French Pony · 15 November 2003 · Chapter 10: Murder Most Foul

Oh my goodness, lookee what I just found! This one's got it all! Thick plot, rich characterizations, an evolving relationship (as opposed to static), a plausible explanation and realistic expansion of a sudden handicap. . . . It is indeed interesting to watch Legolas adjust to his blindness, from the initial panic and awkwardness to the beginnings of independence. Rather like what happened to Mary Ingalls, in a way. Now, thinking of Mary, I wonder if this blindness is reversible. High fevers that cause blindness do so either by frying the optic nerve, which is not one that really regenerates, so as to make the blindness permanent, or by causing something to swell up and pinch off the nerve. If the swelling goes down in time, the nerve might recover, but it may die from being pinched off anyway. I wonder. I shall have to see about that as this story goes on, for I am sure that it isn't over. I like the cat. She is sweet and soft and cuddly. I, too, am intrigued by the trap, partially for the mystery of who set it and why, and partially because I'd never heard of such a device used in Middle Earth before. I've seen spring traps like that, and they're rather more complex machines than generally seen in Middle Earth, I think. And finally, before this review starts going pages and pages and I start writing a novel of my own here, the title was what really caught my eye. Your use of the phrase comes from the Blake poem, but my initial thought was that it was an adapted line from the hymn by Charles Wesley that goes "O what hath Jesus bought for me, Before my ravished eyes? Rivers of life divine I see And trees of paradise. I see a world of spirits bright, Who taste the pleasures there, They all are robed in spotless white, And conq'ring palms they bear." The tune by J.P. Reese is a big powerful thumper with a fugue beginning on the line "I see a world of spirits bright," so your title immediately brought that hymn to mind.