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| Growing Under Shadow by daw the minstrel | 26 Review(s) |
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| Dot | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/11/2003 |
| Hi. Sorry this is a bit late... What a really great chapter. Although I always get a bit sad when you finish up your stories... I literally had my mouth open for the whole first part of this chapter. It was so tense – I couldn’t believe when Cadoc grabbed Alfirin, and then Eilian suddenly appearing behind him and stabbing him with, of all things, one of the Dwarvish swords! *deep breaths, deep breaths...* Oh, and I loved the increasingly besotted Ithilden noticing things like dimples and pouts in the midst of all the chaos! I was so happy for Ithilden when Thranduil praised him – I get the feeling his father’s respect is the one thing that he truly needs. Eilian’s becoming rather wise. I like the way he encourages Legolas to realise what he did wrong for himself rather than just tell him. I LOVED the scene between Thranduil and Legolas! Thranduil really knows how to handle his son. He might not always think he knows what to do but by loving his sons as he does he knows how it will affect them if he is disappointed in or ashamed of them. Trying to impress a lesson upon them, like in this case how dangerous the woods are and obeying without question, is only effective after they have realised their wrongdoing. I have to say, actually, he is very creative when it comes to thinking up punishments. Mopping up vomit. Nice one, Thranduil. Ah, Eilian gets his captaincy of the Southern Patrol. It’s nice to see him happy, and it’s also great to see the trust and pride in him that Ithilden and Thranduil have. He seems strong enough to cope with the Shadow, but it was quite telling that he didn’t question Todith’s decision to leave. He must suffer more than he allows others to see. And he’s going to visit Celuwen? *sigh* That heart of his... And Gelmir might get a Dwarvish sword? LOL! You ended it beautifully with the lovely but poignant picture of Thranduil cradling Legolas. I imagine it must be hardest to let go of the youngest child when there will never be any more. I feel really sad in a way that Legolas is growing up and that no matter how proud he makes his father and how close they are when he is an adult, he has to make his own life and move out of his father’s protective arms. My heart breaks at the thought of Thranduil desperately trying to treasure such intimate moments between them now with the knowledge that things will never be the same as his son struggles to become an adult. I really enjoyed this story. Any more?! Actually, I’d love some day for you to write about what eventually happens to this family. But any more adolescent Legolas stories would also be gratefully received!:) Author Reply: Dot-- thank you as always for a wonderful review. Ithilden is fun to write about as his normally very up tight grip on things comes a little loose when he confronts Alfirin. And in truth, I did consider having Thranduil wallop Legolas but this seemed more creative as you say. I think of elves as subtle and creative with their children. I think that the next story I write will be set around the time Legolas comes of age. But I have a long list -- The Battle of the Five Armies, memories of the older brothers' youths, Eilian's bonding, Gollum passing through Mirkwood, etc. They keep flooding through my head. I just need to convince my boss that this is a better use of my time than what he pays me for. daw | |
| Arbelethiel | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/10/2003 |
| Well, I decided to be a good girl from now on, and to review. Another wonderful chapter as usual. Like Thranduil, I get a little frustrated at Legolas getting into trouble against his better judgment, but I suppose that with a friend like Turgon, he can’t help it. Lol at Ithilien finding the time to flirt with Alfirin in the middle of this affair. It’s cute, especially knowing they’re going to end up together. I find Kingly!Thranduil extremely sexy. I don’t know why, the display of authority, the self-confidence (arrogance?)? And I like his way of handling his children, all of them. His punishment for Legolas is fitting: the boy has to learn to obey orders without questions, if he is to be a warrior. Re: your language problem. The men of Dale could have their own language. So Turgon could have learnt the Dale language, but not Westron. It’s a bit strange, I know, but his education seems to be patchy in other areas too, so... ~Arbelethiel Author Reply: Oh. That would work and it's even possible. Maybe Turgon learned that language just from the contact Thranduil's people have with the Men of Dale. Maybe he's even spent time in Dale. I could even write about that! The people of Dale are probably still reeling. I too find arrogant, commanding Thranduil to be sexy. As well as scary! I think he does very well with his children, but I also think he would be terrifying to have as a parent. Eilian and Legolas are both very brave to be bad. daw | |
| Sekhet | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/9/2003 |
| Between RL and frantically trying to finish something of my own (not LotR!) I've been very remiss over the last few chapters. I've read them avidly and each time said to myself that I must review, and then get drawn into my own concerns and thinking 'I'll do it tomorrow..' and we all know when that day comes. And even though I've been remiss, I am HUGELY disappointed that it's over. I love your take on Mirkwood, I love the way that you're letting Legolas grow up but in a way that strenghens him constantly, and I love the characters you've introduced me to. I'm firmly of the belief that you're channelling the Great Professor - he's gifting you with his vision of ME so that you can fill in the gaps he didn't have time to write before the Gift of Men overtook him. What can I say? Every personality so true to themselves and the way you've built them, and all so very real. I think, after Legolas himself, my favourite is the utterly splendid Thranduil who's so far away from the grasping Midas character so often depicted, but with the traits there that Tolkein himself put into him in the Hobbit - but what you've done is give the reasons behind Thranduil's concern for emeralds and such like (if I remember my Hobbit correctly, they were his favourites) - he has a kingdom to defend, and he spends all his substance to do it, including (as we know) the treasure he has in his sons. If you'd like to send him over to be royal in my house, I'll even pay shipping. And I love the way that the story arc is true to itself. It must be so hard to go back in time and not lose sight of the stories you've already produced and be so consistent. Am awed by that. Thank you Daw. Please write another one soon. Very soon. Cheers Sekhet Author Reply: I am immensely flattered that you think I am true to Tolkien's vision. And what a great characterization of Thranduil's sons as his greatest treasure. Thranduil says he would be happy to visit you at any time! I have to work a little now, but I will be back writing again soon. This is much too much fun to stop. Thank you for your generous reviews. | |
| Tapetum Lucidum | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/9/2003 |
| You went straight into it didn't you? I thought we would get a little walk through the forest. "The scroll he had been pretending to read," very clever, you know he had to be as tense as a bowstring waiting for Eilian and Legolas to return. A very strong "Now!" has an excellent effect on terrified children. I was shaking in my seat just reading it. I'm with Ithilden, poor kid. Now who is the womanizer? In the middle of a very serious situation Ithilden stops to flirt with Alfirin. At least he had some good lines. Cadoc is not going down with dignity is he? I thought you might have to kill him off. It would be hard to find an appropriate punishment for someone who traded weapons with the enemy. At least it was exciting and I am glad Legolas wasn't there as well. I am also glad that the dwarves were cleared. Ithilden should be proud of himself. His flash of triumph was well earned. Thranduil's assessment of his son's performance was very sweet. Any child would beam at those words. Eilian's conversation with his little brother was very sweet, and I agree, motherly. Legolas needs someone to help him out, usually Mom intervenes on wayward childrens' behalf, and Nana is no longer in the picture. I am glad he has Eilian. It is good Thranduil gave himself time to cool off. I've had to do that more than once. Legolas took Eilian's advice to heart. I can't imagine actually getting down on my knees in front of my parents (maybe because we aren't royalty). It is another good example of your use of a royal perspective instead of a mere commoner. I liked the way Thranduil touched on all of Legolas' transgressions, instead of clustering them. He probably did not realize how many people he had hurt with his little adventure. Unfortunately, we all know he is going to do it again with even more serious consequences. The promotion scene was great! It showed how close the brothers are and how proud each one is of the others' accomplishments. I am glad Eilian has turned out so well. I am glad he remembered a sword for Gelmir! Your closing scene in the sitting room painted a great picture of the family. I am glad Legolas learned the importance of obedience and that he is old enough to help. Picturing him snuggling on his Ada's lap was very cute. I am glad Thranduil offered him more opportunities to "walk under the stars." His older brothers must have had more freedom at his age due to the lack of dangers and Nana to supervise. I guess that happens when you Grow up Under Shadow. Can't wait for your next one. I'm always sad when the tale is over. Author Reply: You are so clever to realize that Cadoc was done for. But I couldn't bring myself to write the scene in which Thranduil executes him or something. And I couldn't really decide what he would do anyway. After all, the elves kept Gollum and let him out for fresh air. Thranduil is a good father, but Legolas is lucky to have Eilian too (and Ithilden for that matter). I am still sad that Nana is gone. I really appreciate the thought and time you put into these reviews. I feel very rewarded when I read them. | |
| JustMe | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/9/2003 |
| Very good wrap-up to the story. We got a chance to meet some of the characters from your other stories. I especially enjoyed the meeting between Ithilden and Alfirin. And Eilian to the rescue! He certainly earned/deserved the promotion. Speaking of deserving something - Cadoc only made matters worse by his actions. It was cowardly and stupid to do what he did. You don't mess with Thranduil! And when you do- you pay the price. The scenes between Legolas and Eilian and Legolas and Thranduil were especially poignant. We begin to see how the influence of these important people in his life eventually shape the character of our beloved elf. He is so lucky to have caring family members and friends. Author Reply: "You don't mess with Thranduil!" Indeed! That should be posted at all the entrances to Mirkwood. And I agree. Legolas is so lucky to have his family and friends. But I also think that he has the friends because of the kind of person he is. And I think that's true of Fellowship Legolas too. | |
| caz baz | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/9/2003 |
| hey! sorry i didn't leave a review on the last chapter but i only just realised that i could get past the school system by leaving a review here instead. the school has banned us from going on certain web pages so i can't log on to fanfiction.net any more or leave a review but can do everything else i find that very pointless, but anyway i'll shut up now. i don't think it's a great idea for Legolas to try and be more like Eilian! haha, that was great. i loved the last two chapters. stupid human. Legolas finaly told the truth, i don't think i could ever imagine an elf hitting his child, but they probably did do. Eilian is very persistant. i wonder if she'll just shut him out or die or something. i mean she hasn't appeared in the stories further on than this one, so something must have happened between them (or to her). - i have nothing in for her, honest. Thranduil was quite angry wasn't he! oh dear, i would hate to be cleaning up after peoples sick - i had to do it when i threw up all over the floor cause i couldn't make it to the bathroom quick enough - luckily it was on the stone floor but unluckily for my friend she skidded in it, yuck! i hate cleaning up after my dogs when they have *accidents* on the carpet, but i don't mind shoveling my horses mess! which reminds me i have to go and muck out know - we've just started stabeling the horses again after not having to muck out (apart from the field) during the summer. can't wait for the next chapter caz baz Author Reply: I'm so glad you are using this site. It's got great stories on it without the silliness of ff.net. I am inclined to believe that Elves did not use physical punishment much. They were so smart and subtle. I have plans for Celuwen. ;-} Legolas appreciates your sympathy over having to work in the infirmary. | |
| Fadesintothewest | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/8/2003 |
| Well you managed a surprise ending, that is as concerns Cadoc. I did not expect him to be killed and by Eilian no less. You know, not to sound too smug or self centered but your Legolas sounds a lot like me as a child. I like to think I had a great childhood, the youngest, wanting to grow up faster, but with a loving and solid discipline to guide me. As I read your story it saddens me to think that too many kids do not have the guidance of parents, but I digress. I love Legolas as a child, how you describe him, it is so realistic, so on target. I look forward to whatever you conjure up next. More Eilian please! Author Reply: I love the fact that you find Legolas so realistic that you see echoes of your own childhood. That tells me that I did something right anyway! I have plans for Eilian. ;-} | |
| Brenda G. | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/8/2003 |
| Hurray! All neat and tidy and terrific the way you brought this story to closure. Thranduil knows himself well in that he stayed away and allowed his anger to disperse before confronting his youngest son about his wayward behavior. Good for Adar! Cadoc got what was coming to him. I'm glad he placed the noose around his own neck. Although I know Thranduil would have had no trouble stringing the Man up, I'm glad he was spared the effort. Eilian is to be captain, Legolas is learning to listen, Ithilden is becoming interested in Alfirin (he noticed her pretty pout), the Big Buck lives to be hunted another day, and Turgon has finally been caught! I know that in the future Legolas continues to listen to Turgon against his better judgment(i.e., Prodigal Sons), but he is learning, albeit slowly, what it means to take on responsibility, not only for others, but for also for himself. Good, good, good! That last little bit about Legolas resisting his father's embrace before finally relaxing into it made me smile and get misty-eyed. What a precious moment that was. This was a thoroughly enjoyable story, Daw, from first word to last, and I am looking forward to many, many more to flow from your talented pen. I'll be watching and waiting... BG Author Reply: I was really worried about what was going to happen to Cadoc. I think that if I had been a serious novelist, I would have had to show Thranduil taking the responsibility for whatever grim punishment the man had earned, but I just couldn't face it, so I had Cadoc bring his fate on himself. Legolas is such a good kid who still manages to get himself in trouble. I guess that's what happens when you have 50 years of childhood! | |
| TolkienFan | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/8/2003 |
| Aaaaaaahhh! I am basking in the warm afterglow of yet another thoroughly satisfying chapter. Even without dessert (*snicker*), it was quite a feast! Couldn't help but notice how strongly you established the tension level in a few words. "Thranduil put down the scroll he had been pretending to read", indeed! Your seemingly "little" details convey so much! I jumped and almost fled myself when Thranduil snapped “Now!”. Your Thranduil makes *me* relive my guilt for everything *I* did as a kid! I was feeling sympathetic terror for Legolas. It was a surprise and a pleasant lull to see Alfirin in the story, and to hear her healer mother brag about her. Almost distracted me from the tension level, then BAM! The hostage-taking and death scene was awe-inspiring: "with agonizing slowness, he crumpled to the floor" -- you made me see it all too clearly in my mind's eye. I thought that Thranduil was a little too harsh in his implied threat to Rudd, who was honorable. However, given that Thranduil almost started an unjust war with the Dwarves over the issue, I guess his slight overkill can be excused. I was very impressed by how generously Thranduil then praised Ithilden and recognized his value. The gentle way that Eilian helped Legolas to understand the consequences of his misbehavior was very well-written. It is so clear that Eilian, too, is maturing throughout this story; he not only understands that misbehavior (recklessness, for example?) carries consequences, but he understands it well enough to explain it to Legolas in a way that the elfing could understand. I thought that Thranduil's confrontation with Legolas (good thing he waited to cool off!) and the elfling's punishment were very believable. You did an especially good job with Legolas' dawning awareness and sense of responsibility. Overall, I was very struck by how much your characters think of others' needs and support others. Ithilden was concerned (even before the danger) that the healer and Alfirin shouldn't witness his father's wrath with Cadoc. The healer demanded to be able to attend Cadoc, even though he had threatened her own daughter. Ithilden comforted Alfirin (hmmm, wonder if there's any future there?) Eilian helping Legolas to understand without his father's heavy-handed tactics (which Legolas resists). I especially like Eilian's response to being promoted. He was concerned about Todith. He wanted Tinar to be transferred, not to avoid the responsibility of dealing with him, but because the patrol's teamwork has already been compromised by Tinar's actions. (And the sword to Gelmir - how sweet! - but don't tell Eilian I said that ...) All in all, a very worthy wrap-up of a very enjoyable story. I'm almost sorry this one has to end, but maybe there'll be others? Hmmm? Your idea of doing a story incorporating long flashbacks into Eilian's and Ithilden's childhoods is inspired -- I humbly hope to see the result some day. Thank you for granting us the very great pleasure of reading this story! Author Reply: What a wonderful long review -- dessert for me! I suspect that Eilian is better at helping Legolas understand their father than he is at understanding Thranduil himself. But I think that Thranduil has done a wonderful job overall of raising his sons. As you say, they are devoted to the realm and their first instinct is to put others' needs ahead of their own. That's why Legolas confessed, after all. I have to work for the people who pay me for a while but then I will be back. I love writing these stories. Your reviews are icing on the cake. | |
| Nilmandra | Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 10/8/2003 |
| Well, the Evil!Beta is pleased. This turned out well. I am still delighting in the little details that Ithilden noted about Alfirin even in the midst of that situation. I for some reason am glad Eilian did Cadoc in. I love that Thranduil might have gotten through to Legolas. I'd be sorely tempted to thrash him too, or lock him up until he's an adult :D Another great story. What's next? (she whispered evilly.) Author Reply: Get thee behind me, beta! I have to work. But you know I can't stay away long. Thank you again for all your help on this. Ithilden is really a goner, isn't he? And that's particularly fun because he's so controlled in other situations. | |