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What an emotional ride this chapter was. Legolas is just starting to put two and two together when the Nazgul appears. Then the sea longing and Elrohir and his mind being read and... I don't know whether to cheer or jeer for these two. I completely agree about the Nazgul having greater powers than discussed in the original works. It just makes sense. WOW, third place. You deserve this award. Congratulations Ziggy. You have worked hard and it has payed off for you. I am proud to be one of your faithful followers and extremely grateful to have you review my work.
Author's Response: The pleasure is always mine, L8Bleumr and I confess I have not been as good reviewing recently due to work pressure- new job, very very demanding and then any time I have left I am writing. But I have lot ot catch up with and that's always nice.
Gladyou approve of ht elast chapter- just wait for the next couple. It's going to get a tad more complicated!
Great seeing things from Gandalf's POV. The struggle to get through Legolas' mind was very well written. Nice use of the sea longing here. And Elrohir, though complicated, shows a bit of compassion and protectiveness that I didn't expect to see as far as Legolas was concerned. Wonderful chapter.
Author's Response: If you want compassion and protectiveness, here it is L8! I like ht enext chapter- it shows Elrohir as so vulnerable.
I am glad you didn't wait to post. This flows so nicely with the last. I was so hopeful for Elrohir. Beautiful description of his song. He really needed to hear it and made me sad to think he never had or it had been too long since. Bad timing Eomer. I love ya but bad timing. My head is spinning now. Where will you lead us next? Hold on Elrohir! He's gonna give into it isn't he. Back to ol' dark and twisted Ro, but hopefully not for too long.
Author's Response: Yes- it is something that Legolas has a particualr skill in, so the Song is amplified through him, hence both Elladan and Elrohir hear their songs. It's funny tha the characters' song seems to just be so clear to me when I write it. I had to give it time for Elrohir because his song is filtered trhough all the guilt and heartache. But I like the idea of the snow and eagles. Will post the next few chapters before Christmas but you have almost caught up and then...it takes longer.
It was so refreshing to see Legolas in his joyful mood. Still, I figure it will be short lived. It was a nice change of pace from the darkness. I can feel for Aragorn as he must make an important decision and one that could mean the death of his Mirkwood friend. Gimli is going to freak out if he finds out about this.
Author's Response: Yes, it needed a bit of light relief and that should underline almos tthe dreadful fate Gandalf suggests for him.I did wonder if it would break the tension too much but I think it works OK. Oh yes- Aragorn is the one making the decsion, and much ore consciously this time than asking Legolas to come with him to Pelargir - this time, Aragorn actually has to make a conscious and definite decision- but he won't feel good about it. Oh- Gimli is going to be furious- not sure who he will be more furious with, Gandalf for suggesting it, Aragorn for agreeing to it or Legoals for going to do it ...he will want to go too of course.
Finally, I'm able to catch up. Everything goes on hold for the holidays. This was a very nice chapter. It's good to see them together again and enjoying some peace and friendship. I love to see Legolas like this, happy and carefree, singing his naughty elf songs. But like Pippin, my heart sinks to know what Galdalf is about to ask of him. I'm on to the next chapter.
Author's Response: So sorry- I have posted the chpaters in the wrong order- I am so cross with myself as these two are some of the most intense chapters. Hope it does not spoil things too much but it will have skimmed off the specially sad background for Leoglas being roughed up by Elrohir and will explain why he he does not react much.
Such a powerful chapter. I'm almost speechless. Every raw emotion came through for me, like watching a movie play out in front of me. It's not often I walk away with residul feelings that stay with me after reading a story. This chapter has done just that. You have a talent like no other ziggy. If anyone ever breaks out of fanfic to go on and become a published author it should be you. As much as I love this story, I cannot wait to see what else you can come up with. May I suggest something with precious Gimli. He is still my favorite of the characters you write. Just awesome zig. You are among the pros. ***Moe***
When you redid your chapters my review disappeared along with it. Darn. And I was number 100. lol. Anyways, I can feel for Gandalf here. This is something he does not want to do but right now there is no other way. He knows it's even possible he is killing the last of his kind and making the Woodelves extinct. I feel for the old wizard. What an awful position to be put in. On the other hand, Legolas knows what Gandalf is asking of him and is willing to sacrifice himself, the death of one to save the lives of many. This is something seen repeatedly in real life also. So sad but honorable at the same time. Now I'm off to review the chapter I already reviewed. It was a good one too, but I won't remember what I said. hehe.
Author's Response: I know! I didn't realise that would happen and I was really annoyed with myself for not thinkning of that! I didn't copy them. I love reviews. XX
Yes- it is so noble, and so honourable... but still a terribly risky plan. But then most plans are!
This chapter moved me like no other. So full of raw emotion, like watching a movie play out infront of me. I could feel Legolas' pain and humiliation, Elrohir's hate and self loathing, Elladan's concern for not only Legolas but his brother also. You have managed to capture this moment wonderfully. It is not often that a story moves me to the point that it stays with me even after I'm done reading it. You have the gift that many of us wish we could achieve. As much as I love this story, I cannot wait to see what else you can come up with. Might I suggest a stand alone piece for my favorite character you write for, my precious Gimli. But please, finish this first. I'm sure you have many requests. Anyways, a happy new year to you and thanks for sharing your great talent with us. You are a wonderful example for others, especially me.
Author's Response: Thank you for re-doing this review. I know its a pain and I appreciate how long this is. (Your words are really too kind- I do mean it. ) I will ltry to do something just for Gimli if you give me some ideas - a gift. I'll have ot carve out some time but I find he speaks to me fairly easily and I am intersted in him. What I will do is spend a little time on the current chapter just fleshing out some of that culture - look out for Chapter 25- the first part is from Gimli's pov and hte next chapter is quite gimli-centric. It could be a little spin-off this...
Have a htink and give me some ideas. I've suddenyl got all interested. XX
Reading this chapter is like waiting for an execution to take place, the execution of an innocent soul. I don't want to look. I want it to end. I want Elrohir to go back to the darkness in which he came from. Let him be the one taken and tortured, not Legolas. You always manage to bring out every emotion with your rhythmic words. Very moving and lasting. I can't wait to see where you will lead us next.
Author's Response: Ah- have you lost all your sympathy for Elrohir? Is he beyond redemption now? We' ll have to see what happens with Legolas... I'll post soon!
Love
Ziggy
Even someone as brave as Legolas can have a moment of complete fear. Yet he does not cower and let the Nazgul do as they will. He fought bravely until he knew there was no way out this time. I love that even though he does this act willingly, you show his fear and despair. He tries everything he can think of before accepting the fact that this may be his end. And then it is Gandalf's voice that calms him. It is only pain. What a thing to think. Best cliffhanger I have ever... and I mean ever read.
Author's Response: I know- I love his bravery in spite of it all and it is so importan that the Nazgul are terrifying - I hope that worked too. Best cliffhanger ever? an accolade indeed- thank you L8. xx
A stunning chapter and one that made me slap my forehead. Here I was worried that Elrohir was lost to his lust and hate and would sit back watching the Nazgul have their way with Legolas. I only hoped that I was wrong. Now I come to find out that not only was I wrong but completely off the goat trail (lol). I slap myself because I should have known Ro was going to call the Nazgul to himself and spare Legolas. My faith in him was temporarily restored. I say temporarily because now he is in fear of being seduced by the Angmar ring. Meanwhile, Legolas is being played like a puppet on a lifestring. Make it end ziggy. I can't take much more. Where's Gimli? I need a hug.
Author's Response: Funny you should ask about Gimli...
I am glad you feel Elrohir has redeemed himself- not everyone does!!! But yes, he is still very vulnerable. He has hte ring and the only means of saving Legolas is to use it.
I'm almost sad that we've caught up. I knew it was coming but I will miss the regular updates. Wow! Brilliant chapter Ziggy. I must agree. I have never read anything like this before. I have to wonder where you get your inspiration. I was literally jumping up and down when Elladan scooped up Gimli and I loved that line about getting back their fools. But the best and most touching part is your explanation of Legolas' ghost, sad and desolate, watching Elrohir and begging him not to use the ring. Oh and Gimli holding Legolas was so... well... Gimli. I just love him. Wonderful stuff. You are brilliant.
Author's Response: Thnaks Moe. Glad you liked Gimli - I thought about what you asked me before and am just gently building up the Khazad culture and ideas..I could not tell you where the inspiration comes from.. I had no idea about the NAzgul when I started writing this- it was only supposed to be a slash fic on the black ships... but it sort of grew in the telling (where have I heard that before??!!)
Another heart-pounding chapter. I don't know how you do it but you do it every time. Such a rare moment for Elladan who is always so calm it seems. It's obvious the affect the ring is having on him. The roles were opposite for the brothers this time, Elladan being full of rage and Elrohir the apologetic one. Great stuff. Can't wait for more.
Author's Response: Yes, you are right- they do reverse. And Elladan is going to feel dreadful but I have written the next chapter already so I mustn't give it away! Elladan just lost it, didnt he- hope that came across OK because I was a bit unsure about whether it was too sudden and inexplicable. I'll update Rohan's Gold too today I think.
Love
Ziggy
I absolutely love Aragorn's story of how he met Legolas, thinking he was a stable hand. *smiles at the thought*. Pippin is wonderful in this chapter too. I'm glad Gandalf let him stay. Legolas' internal struggle is heartwrenching, of course, but one thing stuck out to me and made my heart leap forward. And that was when Elrohir said 'Legolas . . . beloved.' For some reason those two words give this story all the hope it ever needs that Legolas will come back from this torturous struggle. Excellent once again, Ziggy!
Author's Response: This story seems to have cheered a lot of people so I am gald it worked - we will see it from someone else's pov soon and htat may make you smile. Pippin has the whole of hte next chapter pretty much too and I think his 'voice' works well in these situations. Ah- yes, Elrohir. He let himself beleive, didn't he. But he has to learn to love himself first. And to atone, which he has not yet done. Not quite plain sailing yet.
XX
Best part of this . . . Pippin and Legolas. You write Pippin very true to form, the way he twists the story to make it his own. I can see and hear the little hobbit as he tries to make himself out to be 'all knowing'. LOL And of course Legolas would feel some connection or remembrance of him. I think these two have much more in common than some might think. Instigators, troublemakers . . . love it. The whole chapter was wonderful, but I was just really drawn to Pippin here. It makes me hope that, like Gandalf and Frodo, Legolas and Pippin will have that kind of friendship one day. And as for the length of time between chapters, don't worry about it. Your true fans and followers are always here. We love your work and support you. We are not jealous, but are cheering you on. You are an example to other authors and to me that is the best gift you could offer. So, rock on Ziggy.
Author's Response: I love Pippin with legolas and I am so glad it works for you too, L8. I have to say I was giggling to myself as I wrote it and htere is another bit coming up which I think you will like in the next chapter. Remeber Legoals feels protective of Pippin anyway and now thinks he is very unappreciated!!
I really appreciate your support too- I do worry that I am taking too long and I love the buzz of posting and waiting for reviews - only human and feedback is so good!
Hey Ziggy! First of all, I had to giggle at Gimli and Pippin with that little part about the hawk and the bat. Reminds me of that “Who’s on first?” skit. I can see Gimli has little patience for Hobbits, least of all Pip. And then Gimli goes after Legolas about tucking in his hair. He’s such a papa bear sometimes isn’t he?
I love the kind of romantic undertones to this chapter. Legolas is so smitten with Elrohir and Ro seems not smitten but more accepting of Legi’s little nuances. There’s a look, a held gaze, a brush of an arm or a whispering breath and I feel the heat and the anticipation between them. And the same with Elladan and Imrahil, though very subtle, I think something might be brewing between those two and if so, good choice. It is evident also in the way Elladan speaks to Elrohir, more lighthearted as someone who has just felt his heartstrings pulled on. You know, like everything is suddenly right with the world and old feuds can be forgotten because something new and wonderful has replaced the bad.
This whole chapter is a mixture of tension and worry met by strength. Someone is always easing a worried mind, like Elrohir as he belittles the Nazgul. Wonderful speech by the way. And the Rohirrim striking their armored chests with their swords . . . so powerful. Candy and I both loved that part. We also want to tell Elrohir to stop, that he’s crazy to provoke the Ring Wraiths like that. What is he thinking? LOL
I know this is still the calm before the storm and wonder what you’re thinking having Elrohir ride to the gate. The suspense is building nicely and I cannot wait to see where this will lead.
Author's Response: Ah, my dear Candy and Mo- you noticed! Imrahil and Elladan is for you, (amongst others). I iwll follow that up after this is finished. I love your points about Legola sbeing so smitten and Elrohir less so but accepting- spot on! He IS more mature but in many ways less experirienced than Legoals in love- Legoals is comeplely rules by his heart...well, not just his heart! As you say, calm before the storm, because the Nazgul are really bent on revenge.
My heart aches for the twins. I so want them to mend their hurts, but I know it cannot be instant. Any real hurt such as this would take a lot of soul searching before forgivness can be given. On a lighter side, poor poor Aragorn, always the last to know. I mean, even Pip has a clue. But hey, Aragorn's had a lot on his mind lately. Still, I wouldn't play poker with him. He's good at reading people and there's no doubt he'd take all my money, lol. I'm also liking the way Legolas and Elrohir are advancing, even if they need to cool things down and put their feelings on hold. I like this Elrohir. It's nice to see him coming out of that darkness. And one more thing. As you know, Candy and I often talk about your story, break it apart, analyze it, get into the heads of your characters. We both agree that your Elladan is irresistable and would like to see him happy with someone. As much as it would be pleasing to see him with Legolas, I don't think he should. Legolas is untamed and more Elrohir's match than Elladan. Ell needs someone much more tame I think. I couldn't even begin to suggest a canon character. This is kind of out of my genre. Do you know Zig, that I am a devoted HET girl, and here you have me asking for your slash? That's just how good you are. I look beyond the act with your stories because it is about much more than that. Now, only you know what you want to write and I would not be disappointed if you didn't write an Elladan story. I just needed to tell you how much I really enjoy your work and anything you write will be looked for with anticipation. Reading your stories always gives me a boost when I'm struggling with my own. So, thanks for taking the time to give us such talented work. You are an inspiration.
Author's Response: That comment about Legolas being a better match for Elrohir is spot on L8. He is a bit too wild for Elladan and I suspect he would end up hurting Elladan who is perhaps not quite exciting and wild enough for him. I know you and Lisse are rooting for him and I WILL write something after I fifnsh Sons- I am just focusing on that first. (You say such nice things - make me blush xx)
This was hands down THE best chapter of yours I have ever read. There's not one thing I can point out seperately that I liked more. I loved everything. Just let me ask one question. Any thoughts on giving Elladan his own story? You write him wonderfully. Poor guy deserves someone to love him too. Excellent work. I can't believe it's almost over.
Author's Response: Funny, I've been thinking that too. Below decks isn't going to be enough, is it? I have thought Imrahil was quite a nice character but so far, nothing's come of it. Maybe just for you...
xx
We have been through so much with this story, especially lately. So, this was a nicely done chapter that brought us back to the original fellowship members and reminds us exactly why they are and will always be friends. I love the camaraderie between these three. They are playful at times and serious at others. Aragorn and Gimli's concern for Legolas is genuine, and Legolas not taking no for an answer is very true to his character, even with memory loss. I love how you have him remember little bits and scenes. It's like putting a puzzle back together. Great work. You said you lost your way with this but it does not show one bit. Another brilliant chapter, ziggy.
Author's Response: Thanks L8, we needed Legolas back to his own charming, sassy, irritating self and he will gradually get better until he remembers... everything...and that will be a challenge for more then just him of course.(You can tell, got back on track now — thank you for your encouragement and patience.)
Well, after spending a week at Universal Studios Orlando with the family, my daughter and nephew pretending to have Brit. accents (thanks to the new Harry Potter world) and keeping me in stitches with a good healthy dose of reality, it was nice to come home to see your post. A lovely end to a lovely story, Ziggy. As always you've done a wonderful job and done it well from the first to the last word. There's always a mix of emotions for an author when we type those two final words, and for the reader too. But I am hopeful that this will not be your only story and I look forward to see what else you can come up with. You're an amazing writer. Thanks for sharing your gift. And thank you for the dedication.
Author's Response: Hi L8 -that sounds such great fun!! Aren't kids wonderful?! Yes, it was really really hard to write the end - and I am still in mourning for it I think. Thank you for sticking with me throuhg it all L8- you have been so encouraging.
love
ziggy