Reviews (782)

Em-chan · 16 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

hey nightwing. sorry for not reviewing this and your last chapters sooner. I've kinda been inactive.. Anyway, chapters 34 & 35 were excellent. Scary and dramatic and stressful but excellent. you write so well! keep up the awesome work! you rock!

Thundera Tiger · 12 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

*the perpetually late wanders in to leave a review* Hey there! Brilliant chapter! Not long enough for my tastes, but just long enough to tease us with some very tantalizing clues. It's very cruel of you, by the way. Just thought you should know. On to the review! Loved the first part. I love the way the action seemed to ebb and flow, and with it the tension. The first starts, then it sputters, and then it's back again with a vengeance. Aragorn's fear and panic are wholly believable, and I foudn myself reading faster in an effort to keep up with the pace you were setting. The buildup to his rescue was breathtaking. And through it all, I love the way you keep him in character. Even in the midst of panic, he starts looking for openings and escapes, whether it's weakness in his bonds or the idea of snow falling in from the roof. His realization that none of this would help was agonizing, and it made those last desperate moments hurt all the more. Which of course made the relief that much more intense. The dash for safety was beautifully confusing. I love the way you keep the focus strictly on Aragorn, and we only learn things as he does. I love that style of writing, and it's why I'm so fond of the strict third person POV, which you've done magnificently throughout the story. Really gorgeous stuff! So Aragorn is rescued. And he's rescued by men who seem to know what they're doing. And we've got a name and an outsider's opinion on the guy who's taken Legolas. I say we're doing okay, even though Aragorn is still far from healthy. But at least he's one step closer to getting the elf back. Speaking of which... What amazed me most about Legolas's section was that you were able to tell the entire thing from the POV of a blind elf locked in a box. Now that's talent. I'm still awed at what you managed to pull off. And you've given us some very chilling details about this particular box. Legolas isn't the first to occupy it, and this says quite a bit about his captor. The overheard conversations say more, and I'm increasingly worried about my favorite elven archer. Add to this the fact that the shock of losing Aragorn is just now setting in, and you'll see why I'm so worried. This Ramhar is obviously not someone to be trifled with, and he doesn't let a little thing like the truth stand in his way. I don't like this guy, and you've done a wonderful job of setting him up to be unlikeable. And cunning, and conniving, and obviously in possession of a great deal of power. Yes, I really don't like him. But despite that, I'm willing to see more of him. Or hear more of him, if he sticks close to Legolas. So you can update now. Yes, now. Right now. Right this minute. ... Okay, not necessarily right this minute, but preferrably soon. I'm relatively patient, but I don't want to wait if I don't have to. ;)

Muinthel · 12 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

...Thanks for saving my ranger!!! ;-) I'm glad that the good hill-men finally turned up.....but not too soon. I think you'll have a lot of fun keeping the two heros separated for a while. But please don't be too rough on them! ...sorry that my reviews are getting shorter and shorter. I still think alot about what and how you wrote it ( and I enjoy it very much), but I can't push my brain into putting it all in more understandable english. I suffer a sleepdeficit (is this an english word?).... - my little rangermonsters! Anyway...I'm staying with you... Muinthel

French Pony · 8 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

I'll bet dollars to doughnuts that those men who rescued Aragorn have yet another hidden agenda. They seem to have waited very conveniently in the background. Long enough to see what was going on and who the bad guys were, yet they didn't opt to enter the battle on Aragorn and Legolas's behalf earlier, when it might have done more good. They're up to something. But Aragorn is free now, and he can get himself taken care of and maybe find out a little more of what's going on. And poor old Legolas seems to have reached the end of his rope. I think the saddest moment in the whole chapter was the bit where he kept pushing against the box, that desperate, last-ditch effort to get free, all the while knowing that it's a hopeless thing to do. If Ramhar is half as smart as I think he is, he'll recognize that the psychological torture of separating Legolas from Aragorn (whom he's come to depend on greatly) and gradually stripping him of any agency he has left, making him completely helpless, will be far more devastating than any physical wound he could inflict. And here's hoping that Ramhar is one of those overconfident villains who likes to use the phrase, "sure, I'll tell you what's going on before I kill you," to his intended victims.

SouthWind · 7 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

Arggggggggg! This is just the most riviting, emotion stiring, well done story I have read in a long time. But after I savor each chapter it almost kills me to have to wait for the next one!! I just knew Aragorn would be rescued - probably by the same people who have been leaving gifts of food: although some of us still don't know who they are. And what wonderful drama; flame, heat, smoke, pain, death just minutes away -- sigh. And poor Legolas! Somehow I think he is just on the edge of finding out all about the evil influence that has seeped into the city. Very, very nice!!! Although I don't have time to review very often I am here, waiting patiently for the next installment. Thank you SO much for sharing this with us!! SouthWind

meckinock · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

After having Legolas and Aragorn isolated together for so long, it's really an amazingly effective departure to have them separated and worried about each other. Well, I guess to be accurate Legolas isn't worried - he actually thinks Aragorn is dead! You're really a master at getting every drop of sensory description out of a scene - especially since in this chapter, both characters were effectively blind most of the time. Aragorn's growing terror and frantic attempts to escape the fire made me squirm in my seat. I'm glad he at least ended up in the hands of some good guys. Legolas does not appear to be so lucky, though. The box he is in sounds hideous, and no doubt worse waits for him when they get him out. I hope you update soon. This is a heck of a place to leave us in suspense!

Lady of the Marshes · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

This was one of the first long fics I ever read - I'm pretty new to LOTR fanfic of any kind - and it's still one of the best. Have just found this episode in a new place after a longish search. Hope you can give us more episodes soon. Gratefully yours Lady of the Marshes (Kathryn)

sofia · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

That was a really great chapter. Aren't the people who saved Aragorn the people who left offerings on the old healers door? And I think the soldier that seems nice and sitting next to Legolas- is going to try and help him escape. -sofia

Elenora · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

Excellent chapter, as always. While I had no doubts Aragorn was going to get free (I truly didn't think you'd kill off Aragorn!), I was eager to see just how you'd manage it. Would the snow on the roof, upon collapsing, put the flames out? Would he manage to get himself untied, finding his bindings not so tight as he'd feared?? Or would someone rescue him...perhaps the "watchers of the woods" who'd left offerings of food in the past??? (You see, I haven't forgotten about them!) I'm still waiting to see if Aragorn's rescuers are them, or some of the "discontented" from the city. But poor Legolas!! I have to admit, while I was squirming right along with Aragorn, my heart was definitely with Legolas, blind, injured, grief-stricken, and claustophobically-confined in that box/cage. While once again managing to talk himself into staying calm and continuing, despite the awfullness of the situation, yet I get the impression our beloved elven prince is bordering on the edge of physical and mental collapse. And he thinks that he has seriously hurt his neck...hmmmmm...how will that affect the wound (which may indeed still contain a sliver of the dart originally inflicted there) he already has there? I wonder. I have been recommending this story to everyone I know - it is great there is such well-written LotR fanfiction still being produced...may that continue for a long time to come!

fliewatuet · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

Phew, I am more than glad that Aragorn got out of that burning hut more or less unharmed, probably rather less than more and a bit shaken, but at least he is safe ... more or less. Am I too far off if I assume that his rescuers are the very same people who left the food on their doorstep? As for Legolas ... poor Elf. His claustrophobia was palpable, and having to endure all that in the belief that his best friend and sole companion is dead. Though it's good to know that there is at least that one soldier who does not quite believe Ramhar's claims about Elves. Now I am more curious than ever to where you are heading with this story. There are Aragorn's mysterious rescuers, Ramhar's connection to dale, and, above all, the big question how our favourite heroes are going to get out of that mess! fliewatuet

Alison H · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

Okay, I can finally breathe now that I have read the last word of this incredible chapter! The description of Aragorn's torment as the fire took hold then raced towards him was so realistic--I have been in that situation(though, thankfully, I wasn't tied up!)and Aragorn's terror is captured perfectly.I was breathless, too. I'm so relieved that Aragorn has been rescued but now Legolas thinks that his friend is dead.After the last chapter, when Legolas heard Aragorn scream, I wondered if Legolas would then think of just fading with the grief he felt.I am glad that he has decided to fight on, as I knew he would. You have the friends separated and the angst level is rising, as well as the excitement in this perfect story---but their reunion, eventually, will be more the sweeter methinks. You manage to infuse this wonderful story with an emotion that is hard to describe; the feelings that Aragorn and Legolas share are not of a sexual nature but they utterly love each other and you portray each of their characters so beautifully that you can make me cry at the drop of a hat! Keep up the amazing work and update soon! Ali.

Dorothea · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

I am so glad you updated. I almost was desperate enough to write and BEG you to finally release poor Aragorn (and all the rest of your readers) from that burning house, the picture haunted me in my sleep. So finally we have only one of our friends to worry at the moment, even if it will probably change soon. By the way, I tracked down "The Healer" and read all of it on one evening (got rather late). I can see why you insist on it to be your first/ beginner story, the improvement especially in POV-things to "To See A World" is obvious, but you don´t need to sound so apologetic, when writing about it: it is a very good story, I liked especially the description of emotions and people´s feeling for and between each other. Most people would be proud to have written it as an "advanced" story and I have certainly read much less interesting stories in "real" books. "To See A World" however is one of my favorite stories, it makes me holding my breath for minutes, sometimes my pulse is up to 140 and on several occasions it made me cry ( all those beautifully portraied emotions -sigh !!) or laugh aloud ( in the middle of the night too, my neighbours watch me very suspiciously of late) and I look forward very much to read the rest of the story. Thank you for it ! Greetings, Dorothea.

daw the minstrel · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

Wow! A last minute rescue for Aragorn! I was so relieved. And in both parts of the story, it looks like we're seeing men who are not so happy about what's happening in their city. Good. That's a start. I wonder what's caused Ramhar's hatred? Surely his lies are so transparent that Legolas's captors will believe what they see rather than him. But I guess it can be hard to overcome a belief in what you expect to see and see what's there.

TithenFeredir · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

Another chapter!*dance of joy* Your description of Aragorn's ordeal in the fire was terrifyingly realistic, with his difficulty breathing, the sparks falling on him and the speed of the fire's spread. Again, I think it's excellent that you made Aragorn fearful and vunerable in this rather than having the unrealistic bravado that heroic characters are often given. Legolas' predicament is even worse. It's torture reading about him confined in that box, but you also make the reader fear what will happen to him when he is let out. It was very creepy for him to discover that others had been in the box before him. For me it gave a strong impression that the city is ruled by covert terror. Our elf is in big, big trouble. I loved the way you took Legolas through his physical torment, the fear, rage and grief, the temptation to give up, and on to his resolve to survive and fight, honoring the memory of Aragorn. You have made these characters vunerable, so when they overcome it is all the more courageous. I hope the next chapter comes soon. This one has me biting my nails, so if you wait too long by then I may have chewed my fingers off. Then how will I type a review? ;-) ~TF

EllyBaggins · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

yay, aragorn got rescued! and i feel so sorry for legolas, thinking aragorn was dead! and i'm so glad this story isn't as predictable as some others...i almost expected Aragorn's two rescuers to be Elladan and Elrohir, not that there's anything wrong with such stories, but it's great to have something more original. i'm guessing it will still be a while before Aragorn and Legolas see their families, bless them! out of curiosity, do you know how many chapters this story will have? i haven't been having a very good morning but seeing this update has really helped cheer me up, so thankyou.

fadagaski · 6 April 2005 · Chapter 35: In Other Hands

Aragorn's physical agony is in excellent contrast to Legolas' mental agony, and yet the linking theme - breath - ties the two companions together despite them being separated by plot. A very clever device. I really liked this chapter, because as the two are now moving, I feel that the plot is moving along much faster than before. Am so curious about Ramhar - black Numenorean, Easterling sorceror, or what? Hmm?

Thundera Tiger · 15 March 2005 · Chapter 34: World on Fire

*wanders in with yet another very belated review* Hey there! Er...yeah. I'm not going to excuse my tardiness because I have no excuse for it. But at least I'm here and reviewing. Hope that counts for something. ;) Tight writing in this chapter. These are difficult points, because the line between tension and melodrama becomes very thin. It's so easy to go overboard with either the villains, the heroes, or both. You do neither. You keep everyone restrained, and the few moments of dialogue across between enemies are hostile but also very in character. And that's tough to do. My compliments! As for the individual sections, I loved the first part. I loved that, when given a short reprieve, Aragorn and Legolas put their heads together in an effort to figure out just who this guy was. That's a very seasoned response from two very seasoned warriors, and I have to thank you for keeping in mind that these guys know what they're doing. At least, most of the time. And even though Legolas is blind, he's still been around for a while. He can keep himself under control and he can focus on the important things. The revelation about the sword is fascinating, and I like how Ramhar was tempted to keep Aragorn around to ask him about various things. But I liked even better how he decided this was an unnecessary risk. Thank you for creating a sensible villain. They're so rare these days. He recognized Aragorn's attempts to stall for time and to find answers, and he cut him short. It was beautiful! It was what a villain should do! Hooray for a real villain! The next section was very good, and once again, I have to praise you on your ability to relate the entire thing without resorting to eyesight. The attention to detail and to POV throughout the story has been amazing! I am very much in awe of your abilities. And I loved the twists you're introducing. It seems Legolas has...well, if not an outright friend then at least someone who's sympathetic to his plight. That might count for something and could definitely prove useful. But you've put our poor elf in a box! Gyah! I can only imagine the panic he's feeling. Well, I suppose I'll have to wait for the next chapter to learn how you resolve all of this, but I'm very eager to see what happens next. Try not to keep us waiting too much longer!

Bev · 13 March 2005 · Chapter 34: World on Fire

I usually review on Eternal...but could wait no longer. *Groan* This was painful. Wanted to hug Leggy and tell him Aragorn would be ok. It's obvious that not all of Ramhars' men are as loyal to him as he thinks. I have a feeling that one may have slipped in the back and released Aragorn or at least left a knife within reach. (wishful thinking) Well...I'm wondering if something involving Elves happened in Dale at one time. Is Ramhar thinking of using Legolas as a scapegoat to prove to the people that they need to go to war? Well...at any rate...this was a great chapter. Can't wait for the next. Hope all goes well with your computer. Bev

e_vrouw · 13 March 2005 · Chapter 34: World on Fire

Hello Nightwing, Love the chapter!! First of: Aragorn is not dead!!!! I'm completely convinced of this fact. You did suprise me though. I didn't think you'd split them up again so soon. I was genuilely suprised when Aragorn was left behind. Good job! The finding of the blade didn't really suprise me. With all the previous hints I knew there was something more to it. Besides, an army going to battle but not strong enough in itself, I'd thought they might have some back-up. Although, I find it strange that orcs would even take orders from a human. You know I had a discussion with a friend of mine about this chapter. It was about who was worse off. Aragorn by being trapped in a burning building, or Legolas because he's stuffed in a box too small even for an elf. We came to the same conclusion: Legolas, because he believes Aragorn is dead. He might be a bit 'preoccupied' at the moment but as soon as he's alone that will really eat him up. And by the way, I've been trying to get my friend to 'de-lurk' and leave a review, but I think he's too shy. I introduced him to your fic several (10?, I think) chapters ago and he absolutely loves it. ;-) I really like the idea that even though Legolas is captured there is still someone willing to help him. It proves that not everyone is evil. :-) Good luck! e_vrouw TITHLAM!! Wonder-cat come to the rescue to chew Aragorn's restraints !! :-D (at least, that's my theory, ;-)

meckinock · 12 March 2005 · Chapter 34: World on Fire

Wow. Hope the cat knocks a pitcher of water off the shelf or something - quick. Otherwise Aragorn isn't just going to "feel" like his hands are burning! The most agonizing moment of the chapter was when Legolas heard him scream. Even though we all know you won't kill the Ranger, poor Legolas doesn't. What torture for him, in addition to the physical pain he's in. This bunch of men is an intriguing mystery. Wonder where they're taking our favorite Elf? And how long is he going to be able to fool them? Great chapter.

meckinock · 12 March 2005 · Chapter 33: Safe No More

Legolas and Aragorn's tense but calm, businesslike division of labor in preparation for the immenent attack was great. One of them blind, and one of them almost completely incapacitated, but they're handling it all like any other tactical problem. You conveyed Legolas's use of his senses in reading the battle and his opponents wonderfully. I liked the POV shifts between him and Aragorn. Each of them is "seeing" things the other either can't, or doesn't consciously reflect on, so the two accounts together build a complete picture for us of what's going on.

meckinock · 12 March 2005 · Chapter 32: Out of Time

The summary narrative of the seven days that Legolas nursed Aragorn was very effective at conveying their concern for each other and their dependence on each other. Aragorn even in his stupor is trying to see to his friend, but - poor Legolas - falls asleep again before he can actually do anything. The shift to Aragorn's POV and his demonstrably sharper mental state was effective, too. I liked Legolas walking into the cabin and matter-of-factly stating, "You're awake." Unfortunately, it seems that just as they have settled into a comfortable existence, that's all going to change!

meckinock · 12 March 2005 · Chapter 31: Shelter from the Storm

You do such a great job of narrating from Legolas's point of view, using only the senses that he has access to, that sometimes it's easy to lose sight (npi) of the fact that he's blind. That is, until Aragorn has to point out to him that he's about to perform a medical procedure using a gore-encrusted knife! I think the characterizations here are very accurate, understated (that's a compliment!) and realistic. Legolas and Aragorn are caring and emotionally supportive of each other in a very grown-up way. It was nice to see Legolas getting his confidence back. I was relieved to hear that the snowstorm will keep the bad guys at bay for a time. After the tension of the past few chapers, these guys deserve a break!

Muinthel · 5 March 2005 · Chapter 34: World on Fire

....geeeeeeeeee.....how could you!!!! Please let an avalanche of snow come down from the roof to get this fire out......but then more frostbites for the poor ranger....sigh! And get that poor Elf out of the box.....to more terror (evilgrin)! I bet you had a lot of fun writing that chapter....just like a kitty over a bowl of cream! Can't wait for an update! Muinthel

elf-girl · 4 March 2005 · Chapter 34: World on Fire

Well... I returned from my holidays at the beach and I'm back at school. Your chapter was just GREAT. I' m absolutelly sure that Aragorn is alive...or am I wrong? I just DON'T picture him dead. I think you didn't take any time to write it, and I thought your time was VERY LIMITED but I think you write much faster than others. How is the work? Keep on writing, please. Elf-girl.