To See A World by Nightwing

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White Wolf · 15 July 2006 · Chapter 43: Love is the Answer

I hate that we’re going to have to wait for the Big Hug, when Legolas recognizes Aragorn's voice. At least you didn't leave us before Aragorn got there, which is what I thought you'd do. The build-up getting to that point was suspenseful and well-done, as usual. It was good to see that Legolas still had plenty of fight left in him, despite all that's been done to him, including him thinking that Aragorn was dead. I would expect nothing less from our dear elf. Don't worry. I can’t imagine anyone abandoning this wonderful gem of a story just because the updates don’t come as quickly as we’d all like. I, for one, will never give up on it. :o)

AM · 15 July 2006 · Chapter 43: Love is the Answer

Ah ...

Author's reply

That is I hope a happy "ah".

Gandalfs apprentice · 15 July 2006 · Chapter 43: Love is the Answer

Hi, Nightwing Forgive me, but I had forgotten how good your tale is! I'm very pleased that you are continuing, and will finish! This chapter had my heart racing. You really know how to write an action scene, building suspense and keeping the mindset of the characters up front. I think my favorite part, however, was Aragorn mentioning Tithlam to save himself. Great! The ending is very moving. G.A.

Author's reply

I do like writing action scenes. I find that easier than long paragraphs of being inside a character's head. But I try to concentrate on those too, as a way of challenging myself. Thanks goodness for sock-stealing cats.

Jay of Lasgalen · 15 July 2006 · Chapter 43: Love is the Answer

Wow - what an intense chapter. I'm so glad that Aragorn and Legolas are reunited at last! The elf's reaction was understandable, given all that he had suffered, but it still surprised me. Thank the Valar that Aragorn was able to convince him - and I loved the method he chose! There is no way that Malcovan would have used such a simple, innocent image. The danger is far from over for Aragorn and Legolas, and for Alun, Koryon and the boy - but I do hope you won't kill too many of them. For some reason, I think Koryon won't make it. I hope I'm wrong. Jay

Author's reply

Hullo Jay! Happy to see you. Legolas' reaction surprised me also. I seriously did not intend to have the trauma - I meant them to just meet and be thrilled, but when I sat down to write the scene, that is what came out. That has probably happened to you too, as a writer. You type, pause to look over the page, and say "Huh? Where the heck did that come from?" The characters seem to have other ideas sometimes. I did want to do something that demonstrated just how frightened the elf really was at being in the hands of someone leagued with Mordor. A moment of losing it. But now he's been freed, he's going to get some food and water quite soon, and he knows Aragorn is alive. These things will strenghten him, and strength will be needed. More to come.

Keji · 15 July 2006 · Chapter 43: Love is the Answer

THANK THE VALAR! You are a life-saver. If I loved half the chapter that was posted in FFnet, Imagine how much more I loved the completed one! It was ended in such a satisfying way for the moment. I don't hold it against Legolas the way he attacked Aragorn, he had the right to think it was the work of that wicked old man. Call me a cry baby, but I did feel like crying when Legolas came to realize it was REALLY Aragorn who had come to him. And Aragorn trying to comfort him... Ai, I just love those two. And i don't know if I'm wrong or not, but since the mentioning of that horrible brew, I always wondered if it would help Legolas regain his sight back... and now I think it more likely since he ended up having a drink... not a very preasant experience for him... but, it was cute how he reacted and damn funny. Can't say Aragorn didn't warn him. And then, at the end of the chapter, the most heart-warming statement...Just very sweet there. A reason to fight, because of love... those two will be the end of me yet. I'm much more happy now. I didn't have to wait for another update for what I really wanted to see. A very VERY heartfelt reunion... Great work.

Author's reply

Ah ha, another fan of hurt/comfort. I wonder why we love it so much? I'm glad you liked the little moment of brevity regarding the yucky drink. I do try to inject a bit of fun now and then to break up all the angst and suffering. Humor helps to keep stories from sinking completely into this heavy unhappy state that I've seen sometimes.

Calenlass Greenleaf · 15 July 2006 · Chapter 43: Love is the Answer

3 yrs already???? This is really a good story--I first read it this year's May, and was dismayed to find it unfinished. "Poor Legolas" was my last thought when I realized it was unfinished. Update soon---at least the to friends are reunited.*breathes a sigh of relief.* I hope that sorceror receives the end of their wrath. LOL

Author's reply

Yes, three years in August. I'm nothing if not tenacious. Fear not, the sorcerer will get what's coming to him. I'm looking forward to it as much as anyone - I can't wait to kill him.

Legolass · 15 July 2006 · Chapter 43: Love is the Answer

The story and your writing continues to be brilliant, Nightwing, as is the imagery you use. I loved the banner that symbolised Ramhar's link with the Dark Lord and am delighted that the two friends are reunited. BTW, I actually read this chapter first at ff.net and decided to leave a review here, but when I re-read the chapter here at SoA, I found that half of this chapter is missing from the chapter posted at the other site. Wonder if you noticed that?

Author's reply

Yep, noticed right away. My attempts to remedy the problem have come to naught thus far. I'm ticked off - there are readers thinking that's it. Everyone who is reviewing me from FFN I'm telling to come to this site, which is a far better one anyway. Hopefully they'll stay once they get here! Thanks again for reviewing, Legolass.

Lethe · 2 July 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Well I have read it again, and again, and ( lol ) again. It is almost the 4th July. ( whooo-hoo!) And I have only waited with keener anticipation for the actual films themselves. More and more I admire, and am incredibly moved by, the characters of Aragorn and Legolas, written with such empathic insight, thoughtfulness, descriptive power and * love * , if I may call it that, of those two characters. If I were rich I would PAY you ( and extremely well ) to write stories like this. It's almost indecent that you cannot publish! I shall be biting my nails and pc desk after the next chapter is finished too, I shall swallow it in one gulp then go back and read it over more slowly. I fully understand the wait. Apparently JRRT came to a dead stop at Balins Tomb for a year, without knowing where on Arda he was going to go with it, - but look what we did get! I am so sorry you have been under the weather, but I do send my love and thoughts to you and your little one along with oodles of encouragement!

Author's reply

Hello again, Lethe! The new chapter is in the hands of my beta-reader Lisette now, so it should be coming soon. Hopefully it'll be ready in just a couple more days, and then I will fix and tweak per her suggestions and post it. I appreciate you telling me that the great Professor himself had come to a grinding halt during the writing of the story. I guess even the best authors can have moments of doubt and confusion - that makes me feel better! I'm glad you like the friendship of Aragorn and Legolas - and I hope the new chapter will give a good demonstration of the love they have for each other.

TithenFeredir · 25 June 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Ramhar is clearly a tool of Malcovan, and a dangerous one. How frustrating and scary for Legolas to be helplessly under his control! You have really created a nightmare scenario here. Now in addition to anticipating the reunion of the two heroes and the restoration of Legolas' sight, I look forward to how in the world you will resolve this predicament you have created. I wonder if Ramhar can be redeemed if Malcovan is eliminated. Though Aragorn and the rebels are on their way to attempt a rescue and a coup, you do not make their odds of success very promising. This story is so well done, and impossible to put down! I look forward rather impatiently to your next chapter and hope that all is well with you and your little one. ~TF

Author's reply

Hello there TF! Glad to see you again. Yes, Malcovan is the true source of evil, though Ramhar cannot be said to be a terribly nice fellow either. I am battling some kind of flu bug that is making me feel rather puny, but other than that we are doing well. My daughter is much better. Thanks for enquiring. The next chapter is chugging along, but I still have a pretty big section to write. I hope to post shortly after the 4th of July.

TithenFeredir · 25 June 2006 · Chapter 41: Revelations

Sorry to have missed reviewing for so long. I've been pummeled by RL. It was good to read that Legolas has gotten some aid and some explanation about Ramhar and Malcovan as well as his own part in the story. But he is still in poor shape. I find myself doubting that the medicine he was given will make a great difference. The situation is still desperate. It was also good to see Aragorn and Tithlam again! Your description of Aragorn's return to consciousness was very good-- the confusion and pain. And at least he now knows that Legolas is alive for now. Progress! ~TF

Lethe · 4 June 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

I have absoloutly devoured this story, only actually finding this site a few days ago, but Nightwing, - all I can say is fantastic, if I could write a story as thrilling and as atmospheric, I would sell at least half my soul. You write with such depth,and emotion, and pulled me utterly into it, from the first moment, - and now I have come to the last chapter, not knowing it was the last, my face absoloutly fell! I hope all goes well with your life, and I just wanted to thank you , personally, for this story, which, has so enveloped me I have been neglecting most other things to peruse it. The best accolade I can give, is that parts have made me grieve, ( others have made me laugh, of course ) and the best stories always make me cry. ( The Silmarillion for one ) I look forward to when you can update, Nightwing.

Author's reply

Hello Lethe! I'm very glad you are enjoying the story. It is always nice to hear from new readers. I hope I can update next month. The next chapter is only about 1/3 completed. Being a full-time working wife and mom, this favorite hobby of mine is relegated to the back of the to-do list far too often. I'm a slow updater, but I doggedly keep on. Thank you so very much for reviewing!

RonaLena · 17 May 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

I am off work sick with a nasty case of tonsilitis, and I have spent my time by reading this story again, from the very beginning. I hope you see fit to update again soon. The drama of this chapter is nerve warcking, I begin to hope that Legolas can make Rahmar or Koryon see reason. But Rahmar is blinded by power and Koryon blinded by fear. I can only hope Aragorn hobbles to the rescue in time. Rona XXX

Author's reply

Hi Rona! Yes, there is more than one way to be "blind", isn't there? Legolas' type may not be the worst. The new chapter is coming too slowly to suit me. Family issue and too many tasks at work are sadly diverting my attention, but I am managing to get in a bit of writing time here and there. Hopefully I can update before I lose everyone!

fliewatuet · 2 May 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

I still follow your story with bated breath (figuratively speaking, at least), especially now that it seems to be coming to its climax. For a moment I thought that Legolas might break through Ramhar's shell and in that moment, Ramhar became more than the bad guy and evil opponent of Everyone's Favourite Heroes. With some glimpses of his past revealed, a past before he became ensared by Malcovan's sorcery, I suddenly felt sorry for him and hoped that Legolas would succeed (and not only for Legolas' sake), which speaks volumes for your skills of developing your characters :-) But I admit that I no longer felt sorry for Ramhar as soon as he revealed that Tarnan was abducted and that he has no qualms of using Tarnan as a lever. Now I only hope that Alun and the hillmen will succeed with their plan and that they will manage to stage a revolt. The grim determination of the men preparing to leave for an unknown fate was palpable. I only hope that the knowledge that Malcovan is in league with Sauron will help them in the end. But I liked how you interspersed that grimness with a genuine humour. Arath's remark regarding Aragorn's medicine and Aragorn's reaction to it as well as the nature of Aragorn's footwear were hilarious. I'd love to see Legolas' reaction to it (*nudge* about time he got his eyesight back, don't you thing?)

Author's reply

Hello Fliewatuet, I am delighted to see you again! I was hoping to give Ramhar something that would make people care just a little. Maybe he is a rotten guy, but there are many facets to any personality, and perhaps some good can be found in him before all is ended. My husband was the inspiration for the mismatched shoes. He was clomping around the other day, I have no idea why. And it does seem that if one foot is wrapped up, you cannot get a regular boot on.

JastaElf · 30 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

I have been SO bad... I haven't left a review in the last several chapters, and that is wholly wicked of me! :-( I just spent the last hour reading through a couple chapters I *know* I read before, and caught up on all the new ones, and I just HAVE to tell you that I adore this!!! I adore you too, but that's beside the point. *g* The way you use words... the way you spin the tale with such incredible skill... the way you do all of it, bringing us closer and closer to the horrible conclusion and the desperately hoped-for happy ending.... AI! The very thought that R. would use the poor little lad against Legolas... oh GOD.... and M. is just thoroughly disgusting. I can't decide if he twisted R's vision to THINK Thranduil did what he thinks he did... or if someone else did it and R THOUGHT he saw Thranduil... Argh! I guess I will have to wait to find out! But boy, lady, you run one incredible rollercoaster, you know that?? :-) A revolution... Sauron's evil... a child's life as well as an Elf's in the balance.... and Aragorn at last riding to the rescue... but in a horrible state himself. GAHHHHH!!! As Willy Wonka said in the original movie... "The suspense is TERRIBLE! I hope it lasts!" :-) Thank you SO much for the update--and my prayers are with you and your daughter.

Author's reply

Jasta! Hey lady, how are you? Yes, there is an awful lot going on. This story has gone a little bit ape. I hope I can hang onto it and tie it all together in the end. It'll be a challenge, as it has attempted to take control of itself more than once. Good to hear from you, and it looks as though I will see you soon as well!

Bev · 30 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Wonderful chapter Nightwing. Poor Legolas...he now has to figure in how to take care of Tarnan. I dread what is to come...I see much torture ahead. Yea!! Aragorn is on his way...thank the Valar...but...if Legolas is moved before they get there...*sigh*. I hope Legolas gets to exact his revenge from Ramhar for murdering his mother...and for wanting to keep her for his own pleasure...*retches*. Yes...I'm sure Malcovan used Ramhars' jealousy of the Elves and his grief to plant false memories. Would be a simple thing to do to one who is so weakminded. Malcovan has his perfect puppet. *sigh* As I've said before...I JUST LOVE THIS STORY! And, as always, I'll be waiting for the next chapter. (please...don't let it be too long...*grovel, grovel*) Peace Bev

Author's reply

Hi Bev! Thanks much. Yeah, it's difficult to feel much sympathy for Ramhar. He was wronged, but he done wrong in return, which is never a good choice.

sofia · 29 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

oh come on! you can't stop there! Great chapter. My guess is that if Aragorn is able to make it to the cells, he won't make it before Legolas is moved to the other cell, which could cause problems. can't wait for the next chapter.

Author's reply

Oh, it just seeemed like a good spot to take a little break. I'll be back!

RonaLena · 29 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Oh good gravy, I had no idea you had updated. Does this site not give update notifications? Finally the action with Aragorn and Alun is about to happen...but also some bad action for Legolas...the torture kind of action. I have a feeling the next chapter isn't going to be pretty, but this one has done such a marvelous job in leading up to the ultimate confrontations to come. I hope you do not take as long to update, I am so gripped once more by this great story. It is still the best LOTR fanfic I have yet to read.

Author's reply

Well, now my head is so puffed up that my daughter fled the room in horror! I look forward to the action too, it's been much too dull around here lately.

Mandy · 29 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Ah, now we know. The conversation between Ramhar and Legolas was great. Legolas said exactly what I'd have said, only better.

Author's reply

Thanks much! I had a difficult time writing that conversation. One of the reasons it took me so long to update.

Linda Hoyland · 29 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Aragorn is so noble and brave to fight when still so weak from his injuries.I sincerely hope Alun's men prevail in time.Very exciting as always,

Author's reply

Hello Linda! Our ranger and elf would never leave each other behind. That's what I love about them.

Eldariel · 28 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Yay! Another update. Hope you can update again soon.

Author's reply

Me too! It'll be a while before I can update though, as not one single word has been written yet. But I'm pushing along as best I can. This story has almost reached its third birthday. Good grief, it needs to be finished.

Ireth · 28 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

So glad to see your new chapter!! An awesome one at that!! You gave me hope that Aragorn will find Legolas in time. But what of Tarnan? Legolas would not want to leave without him....and they could walk right into Ramhar or Malcovan.....Damn, this is such a thrilling story, I love it and will eagerly wait for your next update!! Hope this review will find you in good health, thank you so much for sharing, lots of hugs and kisses!!!

Author's reply

No, our heroes certainly cannot leave without saving the boy. They'll have something to do while the city is embattled. Aragorn's desire to just split and get out of there won't happen.

Alison H · 28 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Thank you so much for updating, Nightwing.Every chapter is worth the wait! Well, it seems that Legolas is not only dealing with a murderer but a religious fanatic.Ramhar's evoking the Valar's will to defeat Thranduil was very disturbing.The fact that Ramhar wanted the Queen for himself was just sick---I really do hope that Legolas exacts his own revenge on the man! He doesn't get any sympathy from me, that's for sure. Legolas being moved to another room does not bode well for him and I'm now worried that Alun and Aragorn won't be able to reach him.Why that room? I'm imagining the worst kind of torture devices.I wonder if Brina will somehow still be able to treat him--but will Legolas be able to take his vial of medicine with him? Brina might find a way to disobey Ramhar's orders. The fact that Legolas has now to worry about Tarnan only complicates matters.He would die before letting the boy be harmed--but let's not forget that Tarnan is a bright boy who also lost his mother.Deep down he may realise that Legolas would never hurt him by killing his father.Their reunion should be very emotional--and will Legolas be able to hide his condition for long, especially if he and Tarnan are held in close confinement together? It was good to see Aragorn up and about,even with his bright green boot! His joke about Legolas making a comment about it, if he could see, made me laugh out loud.I wish Legolas *could* see it. The image of Aragorn being kissed by the old mare, with Titlam in his arms purring happily, was just beautiful.Aragorn will free Legolas or die trying and it's that kind of devotion that spurs on the others.Alun now knows that Aragorn is more than he seems and it was good to see him ask Aragorn's opinion of the raid. Hold on, Legolas! Help is coming. Once again, thanks for this story.Things are coming to a head and I can't wait to read more.Update as soon as you can. Ali.

Author's reply

No, I fear Ramhar has gone too far to receive much sympathy from anyone. He chose to take the wrong road, and that he could have avoided had he been more noble and good from the outset. It remains to be seen if he can redeem himself in the end. The room down the corridor is definitely not a fun place. Good thing Legolas won't be able so see what is in there when he arrives. However, I will state clearly for you and anyone else reading that this is NOT a torture story. Lord knows there are plenty of them out there, and they become rather tiresome. I don't plan to go there. Things are coming to a head. We need a rescue, and then we need a rescue! I also look forward to the reunions, but I confess to being someone frightened of writing them. I want them to be genuine and heartfelt, but not with gobs of blubbering. I'll probably be screaming for advice from my writer friends. Thank you so much for your lovely reviews! They are always appreciated.

Elflingimp · 28 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Hello I usually read your story on F.F. but I was suprised to see a new update here, this was a most interesting chapter and very intellegently written,I worry greatly for Legolas and the child Ugh!Its heart wrenching,I hope help is coming soon!(Please!)I think I am getting too caught up in this story which says you are a great writer!!

Author's reply

Ah, you only see the update here because I cannot log onto FFN. I do not think anyone can, the beast is down. I do hope they get it fixed quickly. But I am pleased that you found the new chapter here. I prefer this site, and I like it for responding here, as the responses remain public for others to read who are so inclined. I'm glad you are enjoying the story!

Lyn · 28 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

A great story! I look forward to seeing how the complicated parts fit together.

Author's reply

So do I!

Lamiel · 27 April 2006 · Chapter 42: The Reason

Ah ha! So Ramhar is as much a victim of all of this as anybody. Now I wonder just who did kill his family. It seems clear that Malcovan conjured the vision of Thranduil and the Elves as the murderers, so who was it really? Malcovan's Orcs, possibly, although it'd have to be one heck of an illusion to make Orcs look like Elves. And Malcovan arranged the murder in order to bring this rising star of a captain over to his side . . . Well, Ramhar still doesn't get off the hook as far as I'm concerned. Tragic past or not, it doesn't excuse his plan to torture a child, or the lust he showed for Legolas' mother. He's been under the influence of a sorcerer of Mordor, but he still succumbed to that influence without much of a fight. I'm so glad that Aragorn is back in the game. For a moment when Ramhar was threatening Legolas' 'friend' I was afraid that he'd somehow learned that Aragorn was alive. As much comfort as that would be for Legolas, it wouldn't do the rescuers any good. This, by the way, is a truly beautiful line: "It is a gift perhaps," Malcovan whispered, "from Iluvatar to his greatly beloved Firstborn. To shine in the darkness of the world, much as a star glows in the black dome of night. But what happens to them?" the sorcerer murmured as his shuffling steps grew near. "What happens to the stars when shadows cover the sky?" Oh my yes. And then I loved the image of Aragorn's foot propped up against the log by the fire, too. I can just see the bulky white bandage of the injured foot, floating as if disembodied in the darkness. You have a wonderful gift for imagery conveyed with perfect economy of words, and it is all the more striking in this story because half the time we don't see any visual description at all, when in Legolas' POV. And now the charge! Oh, I hope that Aragorn takes out Ramhar. He'd probably leave him alive for trial, though, being the noble kingly man he is. Ah well. And I really, REALLY want Legolas to defeat Malcovan. Maybe it'd be more poetic for Ramhar to take him out, given how much power Malcovan has wielded over him, but I don't care. I'm all about Elf power, baby. Ooh, that reminds me. I just loved the line where Legolas tries to think of a way to get the keys without having to kill the guard. Ha! Most prisoners would be worried enough about even trying to fight while in chains, without having to concern themselves about hurting their guards. Thank you so much for the update. We're so close now I can just taste it! More when you can manage it, pretty please with a tied up Legolas on top?

Author's reply

Yes, our villain is also a victim. I think many of the baddies do not start out as inherently evil. Well, I'd like to think that, but I also know that there are a few who truly are just born bad, like those noted by experts who appear to have come into the world without a conscience, with no sense of empathy or sympathy (shudder). Even as children they seemed mis-wired somehow. In most cases I think something had to happen - probably a combination of many little things - to turn a person's heart black. Malcovan is a visual conjurer. Maybe he did not exactly make orcs look like elves, but if you take a badly injured, grieving man, "tend" him with your medicines and whisper thing into his fevered ears, reality can be distorted. Ramhar was his first "captive", if you will. But you are right, Ramhar does not get off the hook. He had from the beginning an inherent dislike of the Elves (jealousy, perhaps), was vain and desired power. He was not a pleasant guy to start with, and Malcovan played with what was easily manipulated. With a tied-up Legolas on top it is! With pleasure. Anything for you, my dear.