Agape4Gondor
· 23 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
Thanks so much for taking the time to update this. You are in my thoughts and prayers...
It was a glorious chapter... the battle was well thought out and very tense... Aragorn and Legolas' part in it were appropriate... Koryon's gentle courage was magnificent... the women archers! AH! Very nice touch. Dear Alun will have to change his thoughts about his intended if they are going to live happily ever after. I am most grateful for the healer who is going to help Aragorn and Legolas... I don't like to 'see' that look in Legolas' eyes. Dear sweet characters - you are definitely very good at writing them both.
Thank you again for a most wondrous read - especially during the holidays. Blessings!
Beverly
· 23 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
Yea!!!!An update! *Whew* Glad the battle is over, but so sad about Koryon. It will be so hard on his Grandma and sister. Well, it looks as if Legolas being blind just might be to their advantage...given the fact that Malcovan can send anyone into a trance-like state with his hands.
I love Brina..she sorta reminds me of Gimli in her very blunt way of talking and taking charge...LOL.
So..Legolas met Gildwas many years ago..with Malcovan. Humm..the plot thicken's.
Can't wait to read more. *uummm..any idea of when Legolas will get his eye-sight back..ya know...just asking..just asking*.
Great chapter...hope you can update soon.
As always
Peace
Beverly
daw the minstrel
· 23 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
Interesting that Legolas's blindness should have turned out to have at least one advantage anyway. Koryon's death is a tragedy and a waste.
ziggy
· 23 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
Hey Nightwing!!! Great to have you back! I had forgotten how wonderful this story is so now I have an excuse to go back and re-read it from chapter 1- big treat for me!!!
The aftermath of the battle is really ocvincing- all that excitmetn and energy followed by an exhausted sort of 'clearing up'. There is a real sense of camaraderie amongst the characters but I cant think what Brina will say / feel when she finds out about Koryon- I think she will probably blame Malcovan rather than Legolas as he fears- it is not his fault. You always draw Legolas so well- he is brooding and reflective, anxious about being left behind... the idea of his visaul memory going is really sad, that he cant remeber green reminded me of Frodo on Mount Doom.
Hope all is well with you and htat this post means life is better for you.
PS: My last review was anonymous- I hit send before putting in my name doh!
Alariel
· 23 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
As usual a wonderful read. It seems that I did not get an alert for the previous chapter so I will have to hunt it down and read it.
This is a wonderful story and I am glad that you are sharing it with us. thank you.
Robinscat
· 22 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
I was so happy to see a new chapter. I missed the last chapter, so I had a real treat with two new ones to read.
I was satisfied to see that you did not make Aragron and Legolas the super heros in the battle. They are both injured and exhausted. It would not have been believable if they had won the battle duo handedly. And I really like how you portray their friendship, again very believable, with conflicts and resolutions, ups and downs, the good and the not so good.
Your original characters are very good, too. I could picture the healers house, the confusion, the noise, the emotions. Your descriptions were just right, not too much graffic details.
I hope your Thanksgiving Day was enjoyable.
Thank you for sharing your gift.
Robin
Ridleyfan
· 22 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
I am so thrilled by this tale - it has drama, tragedy, humour, wonderful characters, mystery, action...in fact everything to make a sensational read. I look forward to each new chapter immensely. I loved the battle for the city - it was excellently staged, and realistic. Aragorn & Legolas were in the thick of it, but always within the bounds of belief, given their fragile state. I loved the scenes with Brina - what a terrific and memorable character! And now, even in this quiet interlude, we get to know something about the mysterious powers of Malcovan. I'm just astounded by your awesome talent!
Naledi
· 22 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
The timing of your update was impeccable - it cheered me up no end after a miserable week. Thanks!
I loved the idea that although Legolas has lost his visual memory , he can still see the sword that killed his mother. I found that very powerful, although tragic that he can't picture the things he loved.
I was so happy when after he suffered such feelings of guilt and helplessness because he'd been unable to protect Koryon, he finally realised that his blindness would be an advantage when facing Malcovan. Aragorn said that life's coincidences amazed him when Legolas described how he had saved Gildwas, but I'm beginning to think that fate is taking a hand in a very Tolkien-like way and perhaps Legolas is meant to be blind, as only a blind person can avoid being mesmerised by Malcovan.
Or maybe I'm barking up the wrong tree.... Whatever the answer, I'm longing to read the next installment.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Alison H
· 22 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
Hey, Nightwing.I was so excited when I received your e-mail about an update to this story.Each chapter is always appreciated.
I could almost hear and smell the aftermath of the battle as Aragorn, Legolas and Alun saw to poor Koryon.Legolas' grief was hard to bear and he feels everything so deeply, more than ever, it seems, with the loss of his sight.When his grief turned to anger and it was directed at Aragorn I had a lump in my throat because I knew Aragorn would understand his friend.You always write such emotional and believable dialogue between them :)
Brina was a breath of fresh air with her efficient way and command of the situation, just the right person to make sense out of the chaos.No wonder Aragorn warmed to her right away! I dread the moment she learns of her grandson's death, but I think Legolas is wrong when he tells Aragorn that she will blame him for Koryon's passing--she will blame Malcovan and mother Legolas, I think.
Your final words in this chapter sent a shiver down my spine! "Gildwas found them mesmerising.You found them mesmerising.I think I will not".Wow--Malcovan is in for a shock and Legolas will do his utmost to rid the world of the evil sorceror.I don't think Aragorn can even stand in his way and I know that Aragorn will *not* let Legolas do anything alone.I love this story!
I await the next update with bated breath but take your time.I'll be here!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family, Nightwing.Take care.
Ali.
sofia
· 22 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
another wonderful update. I loved Brina in this chapter and felt so sad for her when she asked about Koryon, though of course she knows nothing of his death yet. Keep it coming!
Socket
· 22 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
Wow, just when I had given up hope that this great story would ever be updated, what do I find in my mailbox? And what a great update this is -- you certainly haven't lost your touch, Nightwing! This is a superb mixture of action, advancing the story forward and tying up some of the unconnected ends. Thanks for the new chapter, and I hope that you will update soon. Happy Thanksgiving!
Jay of Lasgalen
· 22 November 2007
· Chapter 47: What Is Seen and Unseen
How wonderful to find an update!
I can understand that Aragorn's reluctant to let Legolas go with him to hunt for Malcovan, but it's quite clear that the elf's immune to his dark magic. And, of course, Legolas would never agree to letting him go alone anyway.
Brina is wonderful - I liked her initial greeting, and immediately hiding Legolas from those still searching ffrom him. That's another reason why Legolas shouldn't stay!
Poor Koryon - it's going to be horrible when his grandmother and sister find out he's dead.
I really liked the detail of Legolas not being able to remember what green looks like. It made his blindness very real and even more poignant.
Tari
· 9 August 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
This was a real nail biter. Legolas is so amazing which is why he is my favorite character. In fact, I love the Elves the most period.
I loved the way everyone pulled together to defeat a common enemy. Three cheers for the ladies. They proved their worth.
I really feel bad about Koryon. He really more than redeemed himself. I hated to see him die.
Had I not been reading a story by Legolass in which she mentioned your story, I would not have remebered to check for another chapter. Your plate is so very full that I can't imagine how you find the time to write, but I'm very glad you do. This is a wonderful story.
Tari
P.S. How is your daughter doing?
Author's reply
Hi Tari!
Thnaks so much for reviewing. I should have an update next week, after a long delay.
My daughter is doing very well. Stable, busy, and happy. She is just finished with her first involvement in junior community theater, where she had a great time.
sofia
· 2 August 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
Oh poor brave Koryon! A very heroic thing he did.
Another intense chapter, but very good. So if Malcovan is leaving the city, I wonder where we'll see him next? In Mirkwood or would he just return to the city with more orcs.
I'm sorry about your family member and your cat!
Author's reply
Koryon was a hero. I wanted him to redeem himself, in his own eyes especially. He knew in the end that he was a good man, and that his efforts made a difference.
Next update should arrive soon. Thanks for reviewing!
Alison H
· 24 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
Hi, Nightwing.I've just returned this minute from my holiday in Greece and I was so happy to see an update from you.I was saddened to hear of the death of Maji and your family illness.Real life can be cruel sometimes but each person has to stay stong and find comfort in friends and loved ones.I hope RL becomes less stressful for you soon.
This chapter was wonderful, though Koryon's death was hard to read.He was a hero and both Legolas and Aragorn will not forget him.They will avenge him, I think!
Alun's sister and lover fighting alongside Legolas & Aragorn was too funny, and I expect that Alun has a hard time telling them to do mundane chores never mind leaving the scene of battle!
I, too, thought that Aragorn & Legolas were right to hide from further battle with the orcs;they would've been cut down defending each other and neither of them were fit enough to be there in the first place!
Malcovan has a death wish! Legolas has already vowed to kill him and if I was the sorceror I wouldn't be so flippant in his regard to the elf and his abilities.Aragorn will also do all he can to help Legolas deal with Malcovan and I, for one, can't wait until that confrontation!
Take your time with each update, Nightwing, and don't worry about impatient readers.Real life comes first and you are *one* author that everyone knows will *not* abandon their story.
Take care and I'll send my prayers for Maji in cat heavan :)
Ali.
Author's reply
Ah, I would love to go to Greece. I hear it is so lovely - I take it this was pre-fire Greece?
There are so few women in this tale, so the ones I do introduce I want to be strong. I'm glad you agree that Legolas and Aragorn were right to avoid the big battle. I want things to be realistic, and they both are messed up at the moment and in no shape to be in the thick of it.
Next chapter should be coming next week. Phew!
Elenora
· 24 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
First, let me say that I can well empathize with you and your RL situations you've been dealing with of late. I have very recently dealt with the passing of my mother, who had been experiencing dementia for the last 6-8 months...very, very disturbing. At times, I found myself saying, "This is MY MOTHER??? I don't even know this woman." So I well understand how distressing the whole thing can be.
And while all that was going on, our cat of 19+ years had to be put to sleep just two months ago. Another very difficult situation. When one has an animal that long (longer than my son, and almost longer than my daughter!!), everything in the house is tinged with her memories...and it will be a while before we've all adjusted to life without her.
But lest I get too morbid, back to your latest and most welcome update, a wonderful, wonderful chapter!! It was a nice, healthy mix of action, suspense, and drama...with a really nice, eerie touch of "creepiness" right at the end (one simply can't see Malcovan and not think "creepy" at the same time!). I thought you handled the action scenes against the orcs very well - very nicely paced. And while I was really sorry to have Koryon die at the end (I always hate it when a good character gets killed...but then, who doesn't, LOL!), there almost seemed an inevitability to it. Koryon's earlier mistakes have been rectified - in saving his city and in saving Legolas. Now it just remains to be seen how Malcovan's continued malevolance toward elves and Legolas, in particular, will culminate. His powers are strong - and I'm having a hard time figuring out how our heroes will be able to overcome his evil. So I eagerly await how you'll arrange this!!
Thanks for persevering with this story despite all your struggles in RL. As others have commented, I appreciate your willingness to continue with it and complete it. Here's hoping RL will ease up a bit on you!
Author's reply
Hi Elenora. Please accept my sympathies on the loss of your mother. My own mom died five years ago after a protracted illness. But she never suffered dementia, and was lucid to the end. The person I referred to is my mother-in-law, so my husband carries most of this sadness as she slowly fades from the world.
Maji had been our wedding gift to each other thirteen years ago. I told my husband right after we were married that I wanted a calico cat, and we found her as a tiny kitten the following month. She was a dear, and I still miss her, even with two other busy young cats in the house now.
Malcovan is a big creep, but he'll get his in the end. The good guys always win in stories! Next update should be coming within the week. Thanks so much for hanging on.
Anonymous
· 18 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
Oh... You... you killed him! Noooooooooo. I love Koryon- he is such a good character! Now what? Anything is possible once you kill a character we know you will be ruthless if it's what the story demands - brave writing. I admit to having a snuffle .After all, it was to save our Legolas.I love it that Koryon turns out a hero.
This was such an exciting and well written chapter- I could see the orcs -esopecially the lead one as they waited for them to go inot the courtyard. I think meeeting orcs for the first time would terrify people.Malcovan is really really good- you have GOT to bring him back later- he is just too evil and brilliant to disappear so i ma sure you have something up your sleeve for him.It is interesting to read fics where Aragorn is not in control- it works well becasue often he is the hero even when suffering from outrageous wounds- refreshing to see him in this more realistic light. And L:egolas- sigh- strong, noble, brave, everything you want. One of the best legolas fics so please do keep faith with us readers who are getting more and more starved of decent stories- there's an awful lot of rubbish out there so we need to kepp those with skill and talent for writing high quality, credible fiction with strong narratives and totally convincing characters- even when they kill them off!I will wait hungrily for your update whenever it comes and be grateful for it.
Life seems pretty hard for you right now- when people you have always known as strong adults who have cared for you, it is a strange reaity to be taking care of them- I remember when my mother was dying of cancer, I was still at school, and had to take her to the bathroom and wash her etc. It was no hardship to do those things when you love someone but it is hard to see them deteriorate in that way - I do hope you continue to find your strength. I am sorry to hear about your little cat - she sounds very special. Tithlan is a wonderful tribute to her.
Author's reply
Greetings anonymous person! Thanks so much for this review, and for pointing out that you appreciate the realism. I don't like fics when Argorn and Legolas fight on with horrendous wounds and concussions, etc. Real eye-rollers, those.
My next chapter should be out within the week. Sorry about the long delay.
WindSinger
· 17 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
YEAH! Another chapter! I was so excited to have another installment to print and take home to savor. And, my goodness -- kudos to you for the reasonable, personal, detailed, mostely over in one chapter, battle!!! SO glad Koryon came to Legolas defense, that his blindness is finally working to his benefit and that Alun is still alive and kicking. But poor Koryon! At least he was able to overcome his fear and start thinking for himself. The reality of war is that good people are lost.
Very nice!!
So, now we get to find out about Tarnan and if Brina has any knowledge that will help our elf's blindness -- an Ramhar is still out there!
I certainly understand 'real life' issues/pressures/demands. Just know that there are many of us (me for sure) that will wait as long as necessary for your story to play itself out. It is still one of just a handful of LOTR fan fiction that I will probably keep 'near at hand'.
Sending good thoughts winging your way -- along with high praise!
WindSinger (Shirley Wilbur)
Author's reply
In the end, Koryon won all, though he lost his life. The bards will sing of him for many years to come.
There is much left to resolve, and so the next chapter should be along in a week. Finally!
Linda Hoyland
· 14 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
Koryon's death was heartrending,but realistic that someone the readers cared about would be likely to perish. A very exciting chapter.
I'm so sorry to hear about your family problems and the loss of your cat.It is lovely she is immortalised in this story. I have 2 calicos amongst my feline brood and love them dearly, so I feel for anyone experiencing such a sad loss.
Author's reply
Hi Linda!
I think I will always miss Maji. She was an exceptionally sweet cat. I'm just a bit sorry now that I didn't make Tithlam a calico in this story, but I suppose I can go back in and change her appearance any time I want to. No reason she needs to stay gray.
I should be updating next week, at last.
White Wolf
· 14 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
I was sorry to hear about your family member suffering from dementia. I know it's hard, because my grandmother suffered from it for years before she died. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. My wonderful German Shepherd died not long ago, so I know how losing a beloved pet feels, as well. I love the sock-stealing cat in this story, and it made me smile to know it was the habit of a real cat.
Koryon turned into such a hero, and though he died a hero’s death, it was incredibly sad. I'm glad Legolas and Aragorn were with him.
Legolas was wonderful. He managed to pull everyone together, even in the midst of being vilified by ignorant people. It was great that his archery skills in battle were as good as ever, despite his blindness. It had to have been hard for him and Aragorn to sit by and let the battle continue on without them, but at least they were smart enough not to let their pride make them do something that would surely have cost them dearly.
Malcovan makes my skin crawl. I'm sure he will be even more dangerous to Legolas, as well as Aragorn, now that his immediate plans have been thwarted.
As anxious as I am to read the next chapter, I will be patient until you are able to update. I'm so glad you let us know the story will be finished.
Author's reply
There were times when Maji's sock-stealing annoyed me, but now I miss it. Every sock is in its place, and I don't have to hunt for them any more.
Legolas can still shoot with the best of them, especially since the main thing that was needed was speed. Just get those arrows flying.
Next update nearly here. Thanks for waiting!
Jay of Lasgalen
· 14 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
No!!
I know a battle means that people die, but why Koryon? He had done so much to help Legolas, he deserved to live and see his city free. *Sigh*
I'm sorry to hear about Maji - cats have such a way of weaving their way into your heart. I know you'll miss her.
Jay
Author's reply
Hello Jay!
I do miss Maji. She did indeed weave her way in. In fact, I have begun to accidentally call our other cat, Kit, by Maji's name at times. Probably offends her terribly.
Thanks for sticking with this story, despite the long pauses between updates. The next chapter should be along in a few days.
ArcherGal2932
· 14 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
Oh good heavens....
You have GOT to post more often. Or I will.....kill you. Over the internet. With virtual bows and arrows. HA!
Author's reply
Yipes! Don't shoot!
I agree the delay was unacceptably long, but you should be seeing the new chapter next week.
Beverly
· 12 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
First of all..I wish to say that you and your family are in my prayers. I, too, know what it is like to care for someone who's mind has gone. Stay strong.
I don't care how long you take to post a chapter..I'll be here.
Now! Wow, what a great chapter. I knew Legolas could pull everyone together and I knew he would pick off the orcs like fish in a barrel..Ha. But, thank goodness the two "helpless women" were there to help them. Alun is going to have his hands full with a wife who has such a strong will. Good!
The last part just made me want to cry. Dear Koryon, he was the hero of the night. From leading the orcs into the courtyard, to sacrificing himself to save Legolas from Malcovan. He more than made amends for what he did. After all, he was a guard...forced to obey orders.
We are left with a very angry Malcovan who will be stalking our dear Prince for his revenge.
Looking forward to the next chapter...*ooooh, can't wait*.
As always,
Peace
Beverly
Author's reply
Three cheers for strong women! I have so few women in this story, that the ones I do write must be good.
I was sorry to kill Koryon. I had grown fond of him.
Next update coming soon. Thanks much for your reviews, Bev.
insignia
· 12 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
Hi nightwing, thank you for the lovely update. So sorry that RL is not so pleasant for you and I will be thinking about you as you go on coping with daily stresses.
Such an impressive performance from Legolas in killing all those orcs blind. And what a sacrifice from Koryon - it was so sad that he worked so hard at making things better after his earlier actions, and then met death. Lucky, though, that he said his piece about Legolas's non-culpability when he was able to! And poor Aragorn, still coping manfully with his injuries and having to fight another battle!
I look forward to more when you are able to update. No rush, but it is nice to hear about your determination to continue, even though you have a great deal on your plate. Thank you.
Author's reply
I am determined, and so at last the next chapter is nearly ready to post. You should be seeing it in a few days.
I feel badly for Koryon too. Life is not always fair.
Ithildin
· 11 July 2007
· Chapter 46: Koryon
Hi Nightwing! I was delighted to spot this update tonight. Legolas in battle mode, Aragorn, Alun and then here comes Koryon – standing up for the Elf to the men of the city, baiting the orcs to draw them in and finally taking the fatal blow Malcovan meant for Legolas. Wow.
Lots of other good moments too: the women warriors, and Alun’s reaction –
"They are not warriors, Legolas!" Alun shouted. "They are women! I'll have their hides tanned! I'll see they spend the rest of their days in the scullery! They are driving me mad! She – she – oh, Valar."
Aragorn looked at the angry soldier and grinned. "Which one do you love?"
And -
""How can they be the death of you?" the elf asked curiously. "They just saved your life." lol!
Good chapter. I’m looking forward to the next, as always, no matter how long it takes!
I can certainly empathize with your family situations with the elder relatives; we are beginning to face a similar situation here. It is hard. Yeah, family members dealing with serious illness, surgeries, and the insurance – ‘morass’ indeed – good word for it. I will keep you in my prayers.
And the kitty. I once had a dear little calico named Charity, and her story ended much like Maji’s. I do love the sock-stealing antics in the story and I’m sorry to hear the real fur-purrson who inspired the trait is gone. I’m very glad she lives on in Tithlam. (((Hugs)))
Ithildin
Author's reply
Koryon was three times the hero. I'm glad you noted all of his shining moments. Each one was difficult for him to approach.
I rather liked that line from Legolas. The elven innocence showing through a bit.
I wonder why it is that calicos have such great personalities? The other day when I was driving I spotted a dead cat - a calico - in the road. She looked so much like Maji that I almost burst into tears.
We have two other cats, and they are great, but I'm getting a hankering to go find myself another calico...
Next update coming soon. I thank you for your review and your patience.