Along Came A Spider by Jay of Lasgalen

Reviews (113)

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MistressOfImladris · 16 February 2017 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

I've loved this story ever since I read it a year ago or so, but I never got around to reviewing it! Thanks for sharing!

BlueEyedElf · 9 November 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

I just noticed that I never reviewed this epilogue. I really enjoyed this story and just can't leave the last chapter unreviewed. I love the way Elladan steps in so easily to take the attention off his brother, so he will feel more comfortable. I have a feeling he has done this many times before. Who better for Elrohir to talk about his experience with than Glorfindel. His family may be supportive and sympathetic, but they can never truly understand. The "Finding Namo" pun was cute and was a great way to end the story.

Dot · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

“Finding Námo”???! *snort* Well, you’re certainly in wrapping-up mode these days! I really enjoyed this epilogue. You created a wonderful sense of Elrohir’s mixture of delight and anxiety at coming home as well as the terrible dread under which the residents of Imladris lived while he was so ill. I hadn’t really thought how it must have seemed when Elrond and Celebrían departed so quickly and in such a manner. It’s rather a sobering thought that all those they left behind could hope for was that his parents would reach Elrohir’s side in time to say good-bye to him. I’m glad Erestor’s feast gave Elrohir a chance to see how much he’s loved. He probably needed that. And I just love the way Elladan knows how uncomfortable his brother is and so directs the attention towards himself. I can just imagine him embellishing the truth just a tiny bit! What a good idea for him to talk to Glorfindel! I suppose Glorfindel’s experience was different in that there would have been no chance for recovery and so he couldn’t really have had a choice, but it obviously helps Elrohir to know that they share the emotions involved in being called by Námo. I like the way Glorfindel describes it as a “homecoming” and speaks of feelings of “comfort and security.” It not only reassures Elrohir that he didn’t imagine the experience and makes it all less scary but also underlines the idea that it would have been very difficult for Elrohir to refuse to go – who’d want to turn away from that? His bond with Elladan is precious indeed. “Even the Valar cannot tell us apart!” Hmm. How good everyone is at keeping secrets! It’s not for a long time yet that Elrohir finds out about his birth, is it? Oh well, at least it’s amusing for Elrohir to think that they can confuse a Vala! This was a lovely epilogue (pun and all!) and a truly riveting story. I look forward to any new tales from you soon! Or any more wrapping-up… isn’t Legolas hobbling about on crutches somewhere?! :-)

Author's reply

Sorry, but I couldn't resist that pun! There are several stories which are long overdue for finishing - including the one with Legolas on crutches. I decided to try to finish a few before embarking on the new ones. No-one expected Elrohir to survive, especially when the Eagles arrived - a M-E 999 service (911 in the US), so they plan a huge celebration. Elrohir doesn't like all the attention (I think Elladan's more extrovert) which is why Elladan draws attention away from him. Glorfindel had no choice in the matter, he had to go with Námo, but I wanted it to be clear how hard Elrohir's decision was - no one else could really understand why he was so tempted. It was only Elladan that pulled him back. Of course, Elrohir does not yet know what happened when he was born - but how can he imagine one of the Valar making a mistake like that? Glorfindel knows better, of course. Thanks for the lovely review, Dot. There will be new tales along soon, don't worry!

Vi Janaway · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

A very good ending...i liked that Elrohir could talk to Glorfindel... Vi

Author's reply

Who else *could* he talk to? Glorfindel has been there before. Thanks for the review.

Kalima · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

Ah! Are we going to be treated to a sequel? What is this teaser about "this is the second time you have refused me" from Namo? Hmmmm .... I wouldn't mind a sequel at all. Personally, I like denouments. Good epilogue. I look forward to more. I wish I had more time! K

Author's reply

There's not a sequel, but there *is* a prequel. It's in 'Two By Two', and the back story of The Second Time is in there. It's on this site. Glorfindel knows about it, but Elrohir doesn't - not yet. Thanks for the review!

LOTRFaith · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

Ok, I just have to ask.. Is there another story you have written or planned with Elrohir nearly dying when he was younger? Or did I miss something? Or am I to assume he nearly died at birth..? Extremely curious now... :-)

Author's reply

Yes, I have written that story. It's in 'Two By Two', also on this site. Just click on my name at the top of this chapter. Read it and find out what happens! The epilogue is important, too.

Lianna · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

Good chapter. Terrible pun. The whole topic of elven near-death experiences is quite fascinating. Evidently, elves don't talk about this sort of thing much; Elrohir seems to have spent several weeks wondering whether his experience was real. I wonder whether Glorfindel could really have made a different choice if he had had sufficient motivation to do so. Being fried to a crisp seems to be a bit more irreversible than being poisoned by spider venom. How do you manage to cope with the ever-growing complexity of your interlocking stories? It must be quite a challenge to remember, for example, that Glorfindel knows that Elrohir almost died when he was born but that Elrohir himself won't know that for another century. Do you have a chart?

Author's reply

Poor Glorfindel didn't really have a choice: as he said, he had nothing to go back to. His body was burned and broken :( At least he could talk to Elrohir about it all. I feel that I know these characters so well now, I know more or less what's happened to them. I'm not organised enough to keep charts! If I need to check a detail or a date, I have all my stories printed out to refer to easily. Thanks for the review!

Nilmandra · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

Another good end, Jay. Fortunately, there was one other that could know about Elrohir's experience and speak with him. I can only imagine the fear all had that Elrohir had departed from them forever, and how much Erestor really restrained himself (and Arwen too) from throwing the biggest bash in Imladris history at his return.

Author's reply

I think, when the Eagles came for Elrond and Celebrian, everyone knew just how bad it was - and they didn't really expect Elrohir to come home. When they knew he *was* coming back - yes, the biggest bash sounds about right! For Elrohir's sake, I'm glad he had Glorfindel to talk to.

French Pony · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

What a good idea, to have Elrohir come talk to Glorfindel. Of course he'd have lots of questions and be kind of confused. And Glorfindel has a perspective that no one else in the whole world has. It's the natural thing to do. I just wish that scene had lasted a little longer. I don't think that's nearly the end of it for Elrohir; he'll need a little more time to come to grips with things. But I suppose Glorfindel will always be ready to talk about it, which is good for Elrohir. He has so many people who love him.

Author's reply

I thought about making the scene longer, with more of Glorfindel's memories. I decided against that in the end, because this is Elrohir's tale, not Glorfindel's. I think you're right though, that they will share memories about this for a long time. Elrohir knows he can always talk to Glorfindel. Thanks for reviewing!

Kitty · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

Very nice end to a wonderful story! I hadn't thought about it before, but it is true - the only other who could understand Elrohir's experience with Námo is Glorfindel. And I assume Námo hasn't confused the twins but means Elrohirs birth? It is a bit sad this story is at an end, but I hope to see something new from you soon. Thank you for sharing your beautiful stories with us!

Author's reply

Námo does indeed mean Elrohir's birth - but Elrohir doesn't know about that yet. I'm so pleased that everyone understands the reference - I thought it may be a little obscure. I always planned for Elrohir to talk to Glorfindel about this - there is no-one else who could fully understand it. There will indeed be more stories - I'm planning one set in Bree, when the twins go on their first long journey outside Imladris. Thanks for the review!

elliska · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

Wonderful epilogue. I forgot that you had promised this. I love the talk with Glorfindel and the description of hearing Namo. I particularly love the line about 'that's the second time you turned away.' I like little things like that and the character's discovery of their meaning. And the last line. You should be ashamed of yourself! :) What a terrible joke! :) Very nicely done to litten the mood at the last for us. Great story Jay.

Author's reply

Elrohir and Glorfindel have shared a unique experience, so I thought it natural that Elrohir would want to talk of it. Namo did not confuse the twins, of course - but Elrohir will not realise his meaning for another 100-odd years. I'm so glad I put that last line in - I nearly didn't!

daw the minstrel · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

Oh pain! Bad pun! No warning given! Pain! I enjoyed this epilogue,Jay. I particularly liked the talk with Glorfindel, of course. I was struck by his description of his death as a coming home.

Author's reply

Do you think it needs a pun warning? I'm sorry, I couldn't resist it ;) I wanted to make Námo and the Halls sound very welcoming, to make it all the harder for Elrohir to decide not to go with him. Glorfindel didn't have a choice, of course - but who else could Elrohir talk to about this? Thanks, Daw.

Bodkin · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 999: Homecoming

'Finding Námo', indeed! What an ending! Glorfindel would understand rather better than most, wouldn't he? And I take it Elrohir still doesn't know that he practically didn't survive his birth. It's good to see everyone back home safe and sound. I hope the twins give their poor family and friends a few weeks off before they next drive them to despair. (Although you don't need to!)

Author's reply

*grin* I couldn't resist it! Who better that Glorfindel to talk to about this? And although I've written the scene where Elrohir finds out what happened when he was born (in the epilogue to Two By Two), it doesn't happen for another 100-odd years, so at this stage he doesn't know, and wonders what Námo meant. I think the family deserve a little peace and quiet now - my next story is when the twins are around 15, and Elrohir makes a surprising discovery. It shouldn't be as angsty as this tale! Thanks for the review, Bodkin!

Dot · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 9: The Race

Ah, yay! I was only thinking about this yesterday and hoping that your muse hadn’t wandered off and abandoned you. But here you are! I really liked the opening scene between the two brothers. Only with each other could they really be so unafraid to say what they’re thinking. I really feel for Elrohir’s frustration, especially as a lot of it stems from knowing that he’s irritable but being unable to pull himself out of it. But it must be just as frustrating for Elladan to watch him wear himself out just because he doesn’t want to feel like an invalid. Oh well, Elrohir is just trapped in a vicious circle at the moment and needs something to pull him out of it – luckily there’s a race on the horizon! Yeah, poor Thalion. It was actually good to see Elrohir feel a little guilty about it because it shows that, as Elladan says, frightening off young healers just isn’t like him. If it had been Calmacil it would probably have barely registered with him because I imagine he’s seen it all before but I’d hate to think Thalion might be reconsidering his calling in life! “Of course I will. You are too impetuous; you do not think through your moves. Besides, I am simply better than you.” Uh-huh. He was asking for trouble with that statement. The only thing is, losing to Elladan was probably more effective than anything else in persuading Elrohir that he was weary enough to rest. *sigh* Stubborn, stubborn males. I loved the banter between Elladan and Legolas and you created a wonderful sense of the excitement and amusement in the air. I just adore how you bring the horses to life too and give them very distinct characters! LOL at the tree practically handing Legolas the cloth! The next time Elladan might consider racing against him in a big field… I’m still smiling at Thranduil, Elrond and even Celebrían all taking part in the wagering and particularly at poor Legolas, who could be walking funny for a while! “Forgive me, your majesty, for besmirching the honour of Lasgalen and the House of Oropher. The Noldor used a fiendish torture device known as a saddle to defeat me. I throw myself on your mercy.” LOL. Well said. Actually, what I like most about that is that it really shows how friendly the relations are between everyone present or there is no way he’d have said that. And what joy to see Elrohir so relaxed and free of pain and exhaustion. You’ve brought him a long way in this story and I’m so happy to see him recovered, and to see Elladan able to release his worry. “Remember today, little brother. Today is a good day.” That’s familiar ;-) Very fitting, though. What a wonderful story. I’m looking forward to the epilogue. Where’s Arwen again? Sorry, I’ve forgotten if I know where she is… She could probably do with some reassurance. I bet the twins will be glad to get home too and hopefully we get to see more interaction between them ;-) You write everything incredibly well but I think capturing the relationship between Elladan and Elrohir is your forte. I really enjoyed this :-)

Author's reply

I'm glad that you think that the relationship between the twins is a strength. It's what I like writing most of all. They know each other so well, they don't need to pretend - and they know prety much what the other's thinking, anyway. Elrohir is still a little snappy and impatient (and distracted) but he is gttign beter quickly. The race was just what he needed to take his mind off things, and to get him out into the forest. The 'Today is a good day,' quote was perfect. I just had to work it into this chapter somehow!

Bodkin · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 9: The Race

“Say nothing,” he warned. Elladan spread his hands defensively. “I was not going to!” he protested. “I was not going to query the wisdom of venturing to the stables. I was not going to mention that you were only allowed out of bed for the first time yesterday, or that the meal last night was the first time you had eaten in days. I was not going to say –” How not to say anything!!! Well - losing at chess. That's enough to convince Elrohir that he hasn't quite recovered yet. I would have thought that if the horse's spine hasn't interfered with reproductive function, then a saddle wouldn't. On the other hand the calves would find those stirrup leathers pinch rather. The trees might co-operate more with Legolas, but I would think that Elrohir's horse might be more willing to run for his twin than Elladan's for Legolas. But competitiveness comes into it, I suppose. I'm amused that Elladan didn't think his naneth would bet on him!

Author's reply

Elladan knows very well how *not* to say things, doesn't he? But poor Elrohir, he still isn't right, and he knows it :( I confess to knowing little about horses, especially the pros and cons of riding with or without a saddle. I just thought that riding with a saddle for the first time would be rather painful for a male, especially the pommel. It's rather touching that the twins didn't think their naneth would gamble, isn't it??

Faith · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 9: The Race

Bravo! that was great! love love love it! wonderful fic....absolutly wonderful..i love it...this fic rocks! you rock! rock on sister! :D Faith, the slightly obssessed Fangirl

Faith · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 9: The Race

LOVE IT LOVE IT!! bravo! this fic rocks!:) Faith the Slightly Obssessed Fangirl

Author's reply

*grin* You like it? I'm glad.

Kalima · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 3: The Gates of Mandos

Well, NOW I can go and get something done. Thanks for the story. I'll be back. K

Kalima · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 2: The Female Of The Species

See? See? See why I wait until stories are done? What if I had to stop here with the dying? Argh! Now I have to read on! I wasn't supposed to read the second chapter at all, but I have no willpower. K

Author's reply

Dying? Do you really think I'd let Elrohir die? He's my favourite twin; I couldn't kill him! (Besides, he appears in many of my other storiwes, set later than this.) Author Reply: Dying? Do you really think I'd let Elrohir die? He's my favourite twin; I couldn't kill him! (Besides, he appears in many of my other stories, set later than this.)

Kalima · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 2: The Female Of The Species

Kalima · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 1: Premonitions

Since I just read that you'd finished this, I have crept forward to nibble. (I htink my metphor caomes from the story!) Rats! Now I bet I'll keep creeping back and get nothing done today! So very good. Excellent pacing for maximo interest. NOW what am I gonna do?! So much to do today! THis is why I keep putting off reading everyone's stories from this group. Soooo adicting. And thank you for the careful editing, as well as the story. I find stories that I long to dopyedit rather a distraction. Thank you for writing. K

Author's reply

Thanks for that - I'm glad you like the pacing and interest level. I read and reread chapters several times before I post (I don't have a beta), so I'm glad that you don't feel the need to edit them! Jay

DeepBlueSomething · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 9: The Race

That was SO FUNNY! I laughed so hard when Legolas complained about the possibility that he may be permanently damaged. His apology to his father was also just hilarious. Torture device known as a saddle (LOL). I loved the way the trees were helping Legolas. That was a nice touch. I think Elrohir was really shocked when Elladan beat him at chess. It just proved to him that he isn't completely recovered yet. The fact that the whole kingdom was betting on the outcome of the race just made it even more fun. I'm glad there were no hard feelings afterwards. I had to laugh when Celebrian received the locket for her bet. I wondered how you were going to decide who were won, but I'm glad Elladan won for Elrohir's benefit. It appears that Alagos is a one-elf horse. He is a really cute character. Anyway, I will be sad to see this story coming to an end. I have really enjoyed it. Maybe other drabbles will need to be expanded in the future. This was a great story and may the plot bunnies continue to bite.

Author's reply

I imagine that for males, especially if they're not used to a saddle, it could be very uncomfortable indeed! The trees took pity on him, so helped a little. It's not the first time they've sided with Legolas against the twins. Someone had to win the race - a draw would have been too easy a way out - and for me, it had to be Elladan. The race wasn't quite as straightforward as he expected, though. The betting was fun to write about - and of course Celebrían would bet on her beloved son winning - how could she not? I think Elrohir made a good profit as well (and he deserved it after losing at chess!) I still have two more unfinished stories which I will get back to next, and there will be more, never fear. Thanks for the review.

DeepBlueSomething · 24 January 2005 · Chapter 8: Release

Hi Jay! Sorry I am so late in reviewing. The reunion scene with Taniquel was great. She was so sure she would return to find Elrohir dead and her joy at finding him nearly recovered was really sweet. I liked how she was so discreet in helping Elrohir out. She made sure he had the lightest pack and then inconspicuously slipped her arm through his so he wouldn't stumble. My other favorite moment was when Elrohir thanked Calmacil for all he had done. I'm would imagine Calmacil doesn't often get thanked for his hard work and it feels really good when he does. Anyway, it was very sweet of Elrohir to take a second to show his appreciation

Author's reply

Taniquel was *very* pleased to see her fears for Elrohir were wrong - but she could still see how tired he was. By asking him to help *her*, he couldn't refuse to go back indoors. Elrohir particularly appreciated the help Calmacil gave Elladan, even more than the fact that they'd saved his life. He knew just how bad Elladan would have been feeling - because he's been there himself. Thanks for the review - and I never mind late!

French Pony · 23 January 2005 · Chapter 9: The Race

Very cute. It looks like a fun time was had by all except possibly the horses, who both seemed mildly irked.

Author's reply

The horses didn't mind, apart from the fact that they had the 'wrong' riders. Alagos and Gilmith are both competitive as well, so they enjoyed the race - especially Alagos, who won!

elliska · 23 January 2005 · Chapter 9: The Race

I have enjoyed this story and I was sorry to see this was the end--glad there's an epilogue. :) I enjoyed the race and all the banter surrounding it. I couldn't decide who I wanted to win so I'm glad you had to do that. I thought all the betting was quite funny. Good job!

Author's reply

I could have had the result a draw, but thought that would be a cop-out. Elladan deserved to win, especially after all the worry over Elrohir,and the way Legolas humiliated him in their previous race. There will be an epilogue, and of course more stories to come. Thanks!