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Land of Light and Shadows  by Thundera Tiger 1 Review(s)
fadagaskiReviewed Chapter: 4 on 3/24/2005
Legolas and Gimli's bit at the beginning is just so ... awesome. It stands out so well, yet fits in with the flow of the narrative, even though it is at odds with such as Dashnir's part. Bizarre, but cool. And, of course, we all love Legolas and Gimli.

The one thing I like about this story is - well, apart from the coolness that is Aragorn - the comparisons between Gondor and Rohan, and the Gondorians and Rohirrim. Soldiers from Minas Tirith are grave and well-ordered, like little tiny ants in a huge nest, whereas the Rohirrim are tamed but still prone to a little wildness, like a herd of horses. You're the only author I've read who's ever written that.

I also love the little extra details you put in here and there; in this chapter, that was the bit about the non-Citadel at Dol Amroth. It's just an odd bit of trivia that you've concocted, but it adds so much depth to the whole story, even though it doesn't have anything to do with the plot itself.

Dashnir's observations are an excellent way of looking at familiar characters in a completely objective light (well, sort of). Almost like reading LOTR for the first time again, in that unique, very detached style that Tolkien writes in. Of course, Dashnir isn't quite so detached, because he obviously has a role to play and motives that colour his reactions slightly, but still.

And can I just say that I think Imrahil is brilliantly represented in this story. He hardly appears in the books, and isn't found too often in fanfic not specifically written about him, yet you've managed to develop his character without being obvious. Kudos to you.

Author Reply: Actually, the "odd bit of trivia" regarding Dol Amroth is something I was hoping would tie in with the story's sequel, but after some revising of the sequel's outline, I'm not sure it will fit in anymore. But I suppose it can remain a strange detail thrown in. Sounds fine to me. ;)

Dashnir's observations about the fearsome foursome were something I've wanted to write for a long time, but I tend to have difficulties introducing completely new characters and then looking back at the older, more familiar characters. Dashnir gave me a chance to play outsider, so I was very happy.

As for Imrahil, Gondor, and Rohan, MANY thanks on the very kind words. Sometimes I feel like I've gone too far with Imrahil, but as enigmatic as he was in RotK, I feel like it's something that could be supported. That and his sister seems strangely elven. At least, what little information we have of her just sounds as though it could be speaking of someone who had very close ties to the Eldar.

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