Reviews (97)

TithenFeredir · 29 November 2005 · Chapter 20: 20 End

The end felt a bit sad in spite of everything turning out well. Minuial's speech was lovely. She seemed vunerable despite her strength and bluster. I don't agree with Gimli, though, that she sold herself short. Love is not proud. Then there was Legolas, tossing her knife and wondering why it felt familiar...clueless again. Favorite sentence this time: "Hope had always been her watchword." Very sneaky. ;-) Lovely story, Rose. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 29 November 2005 · Chapter 19: 19

The bit about the masons excavating Gimli's head was priceless, as was Arwen not telling anyone that she had cracked Minuial's skull. I felt really sorry for poor Legolas with everybody mad at him. But I had to agree with Gleowyn's wonder about a world with elves in it. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 29 November 2005 · Chapter 18: 18

That was gallant of Legolas to concede the kill to Ris, and a nice little touch that Frecern had two arrows in him. Good riddance. There was something very elvish about Elladan being drawn to the fire with everything else that was going on at the time, and it was neat to see a slightly vunerable, if dangerous, side to Minual. You have done a thorough portrait of her. I can't stop reading tonite. On to the next! ~TF

TithenFeredir · 29 November 2005 · Chapter 17: 17

I really enjoyed the exchange between Legolas and Thranduil, with the younger elf sitting at his father's feet and at one point kissing his hand. Thranduil seemed to be pouting a bit, having failed in his charge, then relegated to merely guarding mortal captives. It must have seemed a degrading assignment, though he also did not want to risk his people to the battle. The birds were a nice, wood-elf touch, especially the ones that alighted on Gimli the Grump. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 29 November 2005 · Chapter 16: 16

Wow, that was an exciting chapter! I have to give Frecern credit, grudgingly, for being clever enough to fire Meduseld and cover his escape, but he obviously also doesn't care who he kills in the process. What a lout. I love Arwen being so capable in a dangerous situation. It is no surprise. Favorite bit: "Minuial swooped silently down on the trembling servant and spoke softly in her ear. 'Come mortal, would’st thou help me to find the Queen of Gondor?'" On to the next. ~TF

Tithen Feredir · 29 November 2005 · Chapter 15: 15

I rather hate to say that this chapter has a very satisfying brutality, but that is how I see it. Minuial's frigtening effectiveness seemed very appropriate given her years as marchwarden in Mirkwood, and I cannot see an elven warrior in action being anything but a terrifying force. Throndar's end was at once heroic and realistically unglamorous. I just loved it that Bardor steeled himself and set to stalking Frecern. Aragorn's wrath was properly impressive given his usual restraint. He is coldly awesome when aroused. You write this situation in a way that is authentically grim and dirty. It is gratifying to see these characters behaving in a way that befits their skills, the harshness of their occupations and the dangerous world they live in. Such good badness! ~TF

TithenFeredir · 28 November 2005 · Chapter 14: 14

Arwen and Gleowyn were alright for the time being, though poor Gleowyn believes her Telfaren is dead. While bringing the pieces together for their rescue you worked in some elvish goodness, like this: "Gleowyn rested her eyes on the elven Queen, loving her in this moment simply for her wonderful calm beauty, along with her ability to turn the most basic of functions into art. ...The Queen’s eyes reflected only the poor light given out by the candle, but at that moment their brilliance could have out-shone the dawn." You never forget that the elves have a magical presence. "The elven King was riding in the front of his own warriors, the great banner of Lasgalen, revealed by the fitful moonlight, snapping in the wind of their riding. ...Thranduil reined up in front of Aragorn, bringing his own brand of elven glory with him, lightening the hearts of all who saw him." I could just see this, not a common image of Thranduil mounted and coming out of the night. Oh, to see it for real. And although Minuial has reverted a bit to her "minuialistic' ways, still she is brave and magnificent as well. I so love these elves. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 25 November 2005 · Chapter 13: 13

Oh, things look grim, but help, (and some serious vengeance), are on the way. Good tale! ~TF

TithenFeredir · 25 November 2005 · Chapter 12: 12

Oh, good, the noose tightens on Frecern, and Minuial continues to evolve. I loved your brave, gracious Arwen. Must go on to the next! ~TF

TithenFeredir · 21 November 2005 · Chapter 11: 11

How lovely it must have been for Thranduil and his people to enjoy a new and untroubled forest, though I'm sure that by now Eryn Lasgalen is probably almost completely healed. I loved Thranduil pausing to make himself a crown of flowers for the evening's feast. Some of the plants you mentioned had names I've never heard before. Did you use plants native to New Zealand for your forest? Now it seems Minuial may be softening up to her lovers' attitudes. I'm glad about that, but I'm sure she won't do a complete turnabout. Still, it says a lot about how much she values Legolas that she would even consider giving his way a try. Meanwhile Legolas seems to have reached the end of his patience. It was actually refreshing to see him let Aragorn have it, regardless of whether or not the king deserved it. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 20 November 2005 · Chapter 10: 10

The parting of Legolas and Gimli was so sad. And poor Thranduil had no chance against Arwen alone; it was all over when Minuial joined in. Truthfully, I don't pity him a bit. It was hilarious and quite satisfying to see him manipulated so skillfully! ;-) ~TF

TithenFeredir · 20 November 2005 · Chapter 9: 9

I liked the gossiping tree and Legolas' song taken up by the other elves nearby. The bit about elves being like mice, if you see one you've got twenty---if only. Poor Legolas it seems is surrounded by people who don't do well at expressing love: an imperious father, a near-violent lover, a gruff dwarf-friend. At least Ascallon is nice to him... poor guy. But I think Thranduil cares-- he's just unable to reach across the gulf of their differences, or to see that he needs to. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 20 November 2005 · Chapter 8: 8

The scene in Rivendel was so nice. I agree that Arwen has a quiet but potent form of power. The quote of Elrond about moths being the only ones in Imladris who obeyed him without question was priceless. It is an interesting turnabout that Minuial thinks Legolas is fierce. Obviously she respects him as a warrior, but finds him a challenge as a feast-day friend. Did she let it slip that she cares for him? The description of the approaching elf-company was lovely with the belled harness, their song and their combined glow showing through the trees. It must have been an enchanted moment for Earnulf. The scene in Aragorn's sick room had me chuckling in places, like where Aragorn threatens a relapse and Arwen, completely unsympathetic, flicks the tip of his nose. I really like the way you write them together. Now I'm off to the next chapter hoping to see what she has planned for Legolas. It has been so long since my original reading that much of the story seems new again. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 20 November 2005 · Chapter 7: 7

I loved reading the rope-running trick again. But poor Legolas is being put through the wringer once more, this time for Gimli. I'm a bit worried about him. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 20 November 2005 · Chapter 6: 6

Duh, I had not picked up on the fact that the danger was so immediate. It was strange to see Aragorn as fairly helpless, but the assassins planned their strike well and a king by the very nature of his job exposes himself more than a fighting man would. Still it gave me a sick feeling to get his POV of being taken down. I liked the way Legolas went straight to Aragorn and then took charge of things like the lord that he is. The rebels have done some serious damage, but in vain, and payback is going to be heck. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 18 November 2005 · Chapter 5: 5

That's a neat plan Frecern and Wulfgarn have, but I think they underestimate the stability of Gondor and Rohan as they overestimate their own ability to fill the void they mean to create. Still, it is quite credible for such a plot to brew among those unhappy hill people. Good for the kids, being smart enough to bring their warning, and good for Legolas, just being a gentleman. It just goes to show that it never hurts to be polite to everyone you meet. I'm really enjoying this tale. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 17 November 2005 · Chapter 4: 4

Now, this chapter was a delight to read for several reasons. First of all, that villianous fool Frecern reappears, showing himself for the rat he is as the author of the attack on Gliver's caravan. Apparently he wiggled out of any serious consequences from his behavior in Adagio, but he's really stepped over the line this time and, if I have calculated correctly, has put himself in the way of at least four powerful and dangerous individuals who will earnestly crave his blood when they find out what he's done. I so want to see him thrashed. Second, we get another lovely scene with Aragorn and Arwen. I enjoy seeing her portrayed as capable and wise, ever Aragorn's supporter and seducer. As wise and commanding as he is, he is still at a bit of a disadvantage with Arwen. They come off as a couple who face their trials with love. Very nice. Third, my favorite descriptive passage for this chapter. It just puts you out there in the wild: "...a hawk ghosted up the hill on an updraft, its head turning on the stable platform of its gliding body to scan the grass for prey, its yellow eye cold and intent." Finally, the amusing bit with Denulf and Ealhhild discussing a close encounter with the stuff of legend: “'What did he look like?' (Denulf) asked helplessly. Ealhhild...glanced at her homely husband again and decided to edit a little..." A common solution to a common problem, that. I chuckled over the description of the kids and their behaviior. I could just imagine a suddenly dreamy Aethel spending unusual ammounts of time in that henhouse, and it being papered with elf-posters if such things were available. Earnulf will no doubt continue to confuse the pony with his attempts to ride without tack or by talking to it, and he may start speaking to his mother and sister in strangely gallant terms. Denulf will no doubt occasionaly catch his wife with an enigmatic smile on her face. Elvish fallout. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 16 November 2005 · Chapter 3: 3

There were the most interesting, subtle contrasts in this chapter. There is the subdued ,ailing, mildly stoned-out Legolas who seems almost serene, and yet admits to being a bad patient who wants to lash out at his healers. He seems to be covering some real distress under that meek exterior. Then Gimli is as gruff as ever but covertly quite tender about his friend. I really liked the way Theresa had him hesitating at the task of cutting the elf's hair. I love it that in Gimli's mind Legolas is a creature who should never suffer harm. That scene at the end where Aragorn and Arwen discuss her affliction was very sad, I think. Given the scene before it in which Legolas and Gimli talk about their races waning before the rise of Men this chapter ends with a strong feeling that the end approaches. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 15 November 2005 · Chapter 2: 2

Wow. Either you have a medical background or you did your homework well. Tolman's triage was good. I like it that he accurately predicted that Gliver would faint. That hobbit is quite a handy fellow to have around. I loved Ascallon's behavior. Surely you have experience with horses, and I say that not because of the extraordinary things she did, like lowering herself to bear her wounded master, but because of the little nuances: the way she came tearing up at Tolman, snuffling Gliver and nudging Legolas with her muzzle. Those mannerisms are so authentic. She almost speaks with them. But...darn it, you blew up the elf. Worse yet, you mussed his hair. I must read on in the hope that it will all be repaired. ~TF

TithenFeredir · 15 November 2005 · Chapter 1: 1

Oh, poop. Sorry 'bout the empty post. So, Minuial was right about Arwen and her "grey beast". It seemed almost as if she experienced a fugue state to end up on the mountain like that. It must be very disturbing for her and everyone who cares for her. I wonder if Aragorn's healing ability can help her. I loved the unsentimental way you handled the attack on the dwarves and Gliver's perceptions after the orthanc fire. There is nothing but pain brutal reality to such events. Legolas' body no doubt shielded Gliver from much greater harm in the blast. This was very unexpected and properly shocking. ~TF

Imrahoil · 28 September 2004 · Chapter 12: 12

Ha, tease all you like, heartless Rose, I care not, hmph. Yes, not only do I reread stories, I print them out to do it! That's why the grumbling about the format. If you can't decide what you want to do anyway, let the dwarf out of the closet and start writing.

Imrahoil · 28 September 2004 · Chapter 12: 12

You DID get the formatting of chapter 12 fixed after all. Thank you! What about a new chapter of "Evensong"?

yavarie · 29 June 2004 · Chapter 20: 20 End

^.^ Your story was interesting, and I find myself feeling pity for Minuial, which is unusual as I normally hate women who are sort of... b_____??... She is very resolute and stubborn, but you manage to make her seem real and not a MS. I enjoyed the plot and characterizations, but I wonder if you could make some of the human characters a bit less... stereotypical? Will there be a sequel?

lwarren · 20 June 2004 · Chapter 20: 20 End

RS, you know I loved this story, but honestly, this has to be my favorite chapter, all because of the conversation between Gimli and Minuial! Minuial has certainly grown as a character from the arrogant Warden in the beginning. She might be uncomfortable (I'd say she's definitely out of her comfort zone), but she is a better person without all that bigotry weighing her down. It takes a big person to admit a mistake of the magnitude she had made with Gimli, and I like her all the more for doing so. And Gimli....bless his sweet heart...to encourage her, to tell her she has eternity to work on Legolas! Awwwwww, he is just the best friend, and now she can appreciate why! (Now, to work on Thranduil's attitude....Gimli, a pet...a hobby? I'll hope he's not as hardened as Minuial thinks he is....). Continued to giggle at the twins looking over their shoulders and expecting the REVENGE OF THRANDUIL to fall on them at any time. LOL That was great! I'm glad Arwen has found some peace of mind (even if RealLife if not at all peaceful for her!) (And I'm glad Throndar was given a funeral worthy of the warrior he was...forgot to include that in review for ch. 19. Sorry! CRC strikes every 10 minutes in my household!) So, Edoras is being rebuilt...Arwen and Aragorn head for hearth and home... Gimli is on the mend, and still arguing with Legolas...Adar is staying in Ithilien for awhile (that'll be fun! :-) )...the twins will hopefully get Tolman to Imladris this time...and that bird winging away at the end was just the right touch for an ending. I hope you know, mellon nin, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading "Cadenza", and I'll be checking regularly for anything new from you in the future. :-) linda

lwarren · 20 June 2004 · Chapter 19: 19

Oh dear...poor Gimli! Twenty...no, fifty masons chiseling and hammering in his poor head? Gave me a headache just thinking about it! What a descriptive metaphor...ouch! I was glad to see him in the care of Tolman - he is such a neat Hobbit! I've really appreciated his character's warmth and caring - he reminds me of an old-fashioned country doctor...always willing to travel to help his patients. I don't think they make those anymore. :-( And friend Legolas is applying his healing talents, too. Well, it stands to reason he would have some...just not as developed as a trained healer. Given Gimli's injuries, I wouldn't want to be the one to try and keep him (Legolas) from helping heal and support the dwarf. (Elven life support, eh?) So the twins are on Thranduil's bad list, are they? I would be interested in what little (or big) trick they played...and judging from Minuial's reaction to seeing them, it affected more than one woodland elf! LOL I won't say poor Minuial...but poor Minuial! Waking up with no Legolas in sight...she knew he had been around, but now he is not! My dear Legolas! Not a romantic bone in his body...LOL! Truer words were never spoken; the elf needs some instruction here! :-) Must be a guy thing - wonderfully handsome (uh, let's be accurate here...beautiful!), kind, loyal, courageous, and absolutely, totally oblivious! Maybe he hasn't had a chance to notice...we'll give him the benefit of the doubt. ;) I loved the interlude with Gleowyn meeting up with Legolas on the hilltop...and I totally agree with her. The world is much more beautiful for the elves being a part of it! Great chapter, RS! linda