Reviews (178)

Anonymous · 20 December 2003 · Chapter 7: More News

Hi, Daw. Thanks for another great chapter. Oh, boy, Thranduil's back is up in a big way, having found out that information concerning his youngest son is being withheld from him. Add to that Eilian's letter of unbrooked defiance... Is that steam pouring out of the king's pointed ears? Poor Annael, accidently spilling the beans abour Legolas' lack of concentration in the spider hunt, a fact that Thranduil would have expected Legolas to himself divulge, and then Ithilden walking neatly into the trap set for him by his irate father concerning the withheld news. Oh, dear. I may be mistaken, but isn't this the first time in your multiplied stories about the Thrandulion clan that the king has been upset and angry simultaneously with all three of his sons? Then I was as taken aback as Ithilden when I found out that Alfirin and Thranduil had worked together to cover up Sinnarn's own misadventure and the harrowing consequences that might have ensued from that. Turnabout is fair play? I'll bet Ithilden didn't think so, not when he found himself squirming in the same chair his own father had so recently vacated! Ah, families! Will we ever truly understand them? I can see both sides of this argument and agree with both sides. A very sticky situation, but I have confidence all will be righted eventually. I love how you take "real life" situations and write them into "made up" stories. That's one reason we can all relate to your characters, for almost without exception, most of us have experienced the same or similar scenarios in our own lives. Annael's ruminations about his mother and his sweetheart added a soothing quality to this chapter and a touch of sadness for those of us who still grieve the lost Siondel. But, I see marriage and fatherhood in the very near future for Legolas' best friend, and that would be a wonderful way to bring healing to those who have been hurt by Shadow. So Eilian is about to patrol for Orcs? So glad you brought out what it was the Dwarves were warning the Elves about. That would certainly explain the Warg, but I have a feeling this situation may bleed over into the territory of the Eastern Patrol and combine Eilian and Legolas together in a future battle. Gee, that would make for a terrific chapter, don't you think? (Hint, hint ;]) Hey, I'm just meandering a bit... Daw, I don't usually point out what I consider "discrepancies" or "typos" in your stories (cause we all make them), but I do wish to inquire about this since I may be the one needing proper instruction on this word's usage. In this sentence "Ithilden drew a deep, calming breath and reigned in his own temper." "Reigned" means to rule over, right, as though "HE REIGNED OVER THE KINGDOM"? I thought perhaps you meant to actually use the word "reined" in this sentence, which would mean to pull back and take control over (i.e., as with controlling a horse--same as Ithilden controlling his temper). So did you intentionally choose "reigned" over "reined"? I just need to know what is correct so that I will be sure to use the right words in any of my own ritings. Please, Professor, can you instruct me in this? This was a great chapter. Can't wait for the next... BG

meckinock · 19 December 2003 · Chapter 7: More News

Sorry I missed reviewing your last chapter, Daw, it wasn't intentional but an unwelcome intrusion of RL... The one I really feel sorry for here (besides the royal messenger) is Ithilden. He is bending over backwards to be reasonable. Maybe he could find Adar a hobby or something to get his mind off micromanaging his kids...I would not want to be Ithilden when Thranduil finds out that Eilian blew him off on the letter. Seems likely the one to bear the brunt of that wroth (love that word) will be whoever's closest. And what the heck was Annael thinking?? What a bigmouth. Loved Eilian's impatient dismissal of his father's instructions. And he must be so happy to be getting some action soon - me, too, I must admit!

Naneth · 19 December 2003 · Chapter 7: More News

Ah, the irony indeed! Hope Thranduil appreciates the irony as much as Ithilden does. What a wonderful parallel you created. Did Eilian suddenly develop a death wish???? I can't believe he's being so defiant. Good thing there is time for Thranduil to cool off before Eilian will be home again on leave! And poor Anneal! Open mouth and insert foot indeed.

The Karenator · 19 December 2003 · Chapter 7: More News

Daw, Interesting developments. Another title for this chapter could have been 'Thranduil's Terrible, No-Good, Rotten Day' and when the king has a bad day, it spreads like an oil slick. I'm not sure that I think Eilian's advice was so bad, but then what do I know about diplomacy? Besides, it seems to me that the settlers are just looking for a reason to buck Thranduil...I think that may pass as deep wood entertainment for them. Speaking of obtuse! It's true that Eilian will never be seen as a private citizen, but he said nothing that should have riled the settlers up so much. What's his name...Celuwen's father... is going to be offended if Eilian just breaths the same air as he does. He's not done anything that I've seen that strengthens his credibility...the old wood louse. By the time Eilian gets all his runes on, the guy won't stand a chance. Eilian may also need to rub those runes a bit to calm down. The king's oil slick has hit the Northern border. What goes around, comes around. Ithilden withholds information about Legolas and Thranduil conveniently forgets to mention Sinnarn's Big Adventure. After Ithilden calmed down, at least, he could see the irony of the situation and the possibiity of using it to strengthen his position with his adar. Not to mention that he will have some fun with Alfirin over the whole swimming episode. Another Eru given chance to use it to his advantage. Poor Annael...bored stiff and munching unhappily on his foot. I'm sure he's ready to beat his head against the palace doors. A good chapter and fun to boot. Thranduil is such a delight when he's ruffled...though I suspect his sons and subjects would beg to differ. Looking forward to the next one. :>) Karen BTW, I apologize for the last review that I should have never sent. I discovered that I could not think with an antsy teenager hanging over my shoulder. It was a wonderful chapter, too. I'm sorry I did not do it justice.

Tapetum Lucidum · 19 December 2003 · Chapter 7: More News

I am patting myself on the back for reviewing right away. Obsessed? Me? Well... yes, I am. Eilian, Headstrong? Yes he is. That was a rather forceful letter he sent back to his father. I imagine he should stay on patrol as long as possible after that one. At least he will have something to distract him. Hunting orcs is his favorite pastime. The dwarves were not exactly neighborly to conceal the presence of orcs from the elves. I guess they feel it serves the haughty eldar right. I think they will come to regret it. Wroth? 10 years of college and I have never heard that one before. I had to go look it up. Then you used it again in the same chapter - I'm impressed. I would not want to be that poor messenger. First trying to stand up to a furious Eilin, then bringing word to Thranduil that his son did not send a reply. I think I would take the long way home if I were him. I am glad to see Eilian back to his old commanding self. Your Annael scene was very sweet. I can imagine him discussing his day with Beliniel - it is very endearing. I have told you before, though not in this story, your royal perspective is excellent. You do a great job of showing a situation through the eyes of not only a young warrior but also the family of the Woodland King. Few authors can do it so well. I think Annael is going to owe Legolas and Ithilden both an apology. Ithilden did a good job standing up to Thranduil. It must be very difficult. I would be shaking in my boots. The water adventures of Sinnarn were an excellent way to show both of them how the other one feels - very clever. I hope the evening does lead to more pleasant diversions. ;-) That was a great non-Legolas chapter! Tapetum

tigerlily713 · 19 December 2003 · Chapter 7: More News

Yet another lovely chapter. I love the parallels that you draw so often. It is interesting how Father and Sons seem to struggle with the same problems, but none of them can see it clearly enough to show empathy or even co-miserate with the other. That parting scene was very cute. I look forward to more! ~Lily

Tapetum Lucidum · 18 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

When your job is new - any task is exciting. I am glad to see Legolas express his enthusiasm rather than trying to act as jaded as a seasoned warrior. It is in good keeping with his character. His moments of defiant thoughts are very endearing. I can definitely relate! He handled Tinar well, I think he learned a lot dealing with Galelas. Poor Pilin! Everyone is always bad mouthing him. I would still trade places with him any day - carrying Legolas around all day can't be too bad. Beliond's lack of experience in Esgaroth is in keeping with the history you have given him. He seems like a solitary elf and NOT one to socialize with mortals. I liked how you had Legolas handle Calem - his years of standing around bored in court have finally paid off. I am quite sure he was being "fobbed" off because Calem knew Todith wouldn't like his response. Diplomacy is not easily learned but it seems Thranduil's youngest has picked up a little. Favorite line "You worry too much, Nana," I can imagine his wicked little grin. Beliond was constantly scanning the "crown"? (oops, typo but kind of funny) I am glad Legolas realized the mistake in his selection and picked up something more appropriate. Was the other item a Rune of Proctection? We are going to need a good abbreviation for them if they keep showing up - how about RoP? Nitha's greeting was enthusiastic? I can only imagine. When you see the scene in ROTK where Legolas walks into Frodo's healing chamber, you will have an enthusiastic reaction as well. He looks very very very good. (sorry, kind of distracted). I would be furious at Beliond's reaction too. He has no right to make those assumptions. It is good for him to stew a little. Todith's comment about Ithilden's job probably caught Legolas a little off guard. He probably doesn't think much about his oldest sibling's level of responsibility. It must be overwhelming sometimes. I think Beliond's level of respect for his young charge increased a notch when he offered his explanations. He realized he had misjudged the youngling. Legolas' cleaning up for him was very sweet. Tapetum

Tapetum Lucidum · 18 December 2003 · Chapter 5: First Battles

I am sorry to be so slow. Spiders ... shudder - Have you seen Shelob yet - she is great! 75? That seems like a lot for one patrol. Legolas' excitement/apprehension is well played out. His heart must have been pumping a league a minute. His exchage with Todith "No rushing ahead, Legolas," you can tell Todith is indeed accustomed to Eilian. It is unfair of him to assume Legolas will act the same way but I can certainly understand it. I bet the young prince feels safe with Beliond and Tinar, he knows they will keep an eye on his back. Legolas' little oversight was only normal - it was his first combat. I think Beliond reacted so strongly because if his charge was injured in his first conflict, his Liege may have his head. I hope there was also some concern for Legolas personally but I don't think their relationship is quite there yet. You have done a good job slowly building a bond between the two. I am glad it wasn't instant - they have too little in common for that. Ok, now Eilian has 3 runes of protection and Legolas is wearing none. That is not a good thing. I hope he fixes it quickly. Tinar finally learned his little lesson, it was long overdue. I am glad Beliond is finally able to recognize that the princling has some skill with a bow. Sounds like Beliond speaks from experience "sometimes skill and courage are not always enough." I suspect he has lost someone close to him. I'll be waiting for that little tale. I am glad the rune is back around his neck. Is he going to send Eilian a 4th rune? Maybe I'll buy him a charm bracelet for winter solstice. I think Eilian reacted so strongly to Galelas' mistake because he reminds him so much of his younger brother. He fears Legolas will be making the same mistakes and it scares him. You handled that very well. Tapetum

Lera · 17 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

Sorry I didn't review the last chapter. I was too excited about seeing Return of the King, which was awesome. It's always odd when you compare how the different races age. Personally I wonder what Nitha's reaction to Legolas was. Question: Why is being held hostage something he "rarely alludes to?" Great chapter. Ciao.

Dot · 16 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

Ah, things seem to be improving between Legolas and Beliond. They seem to be learning more respect for one another at least. As always, there’s great interplay between the warriors – I really love the way they interact with each other. And then there’s Tinár, of course. His parents really have a lot to answer for. But isn’t Legolas showing amazing self-control around him?! So Beliond has never been to Esgaroth? I had never thought about Thranduil not having gone there, but I suppose there would never have been a reason for him to. These older elves do seem to distance themselves from other races as much as possible. I wonder were they ever as curious as Legolas and his friends. Maybe they were and Dagorlad put an end to any faith they had in anyone. It’s quite funny that Beliond seems to constantly have to remind Legolas who he is and why he should maybe try to maintain some anonymity! He certainly doesn’t seem particularly impressed by Esgaroth and its people. Great descriptions, by the way!! The “smell of inadequately washed Men” indeed… It’s wonderful to see Nitha again. I really like the way Legolas was startled at the realisation that time has passed so quickly for men and that she’s grown up in what must be a really short space of time for him. I felt almost sorry for Beliond, though – how shocked he must have been! “The king made my responsibilities abundantly clear to me” – yeah, I’ll bet he did, and they probably didn’t involve waiting outside some house while his charge fraternised with a beautiful woman. He could have been a bit more tactful with Legolas but I can certainly see how he would have jumped to conclusions – and I notice that Legolas felt a bit unsettled when she greeted him so warmly! Sometimes Beliond gives the impression that he is strictly trying to carry out the king’s orders but he seems to be gradually looking out for Legolas out of concern as well, and genuinely trying to help him. I’m glad he spoke to Legolas afterwards, especially as he seemed to gain a new level of understanding and respect for him once he heard the story about how Legolas and Nitha met. They appear to be becoming slightly more at ease with each other – the ‘Nana’ thing is really quite endearing! I liked the piece about washing-up – it does seem to be bothering Legolas that Beliond has to do it, which shows that he respects him as an elder and as an experienced warrior if nothing else. Only time will tell if he ever really accepts his presence, though!:)

tigerlily713 · 16 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

What a wonderful chapter! It was great to see Nitha again, especially when we were able to see the problem that many elves must have had when relating to Men. They grow so much faster! I look forward to your next chapter! Lily

Jebb · 16 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

This was a lovely chapter it was good to see Legolas and Nana Beliond together even with all the frustrations and misunderstandings that abounded. Also the cameo of Nitha. It must be hard for Legolas to take in the the changes in her but good that he can be prepared for such rapid change before Aragorn enters his life. Like the ending too so he didn't escape entirely from pot washing but Beliond due to his kindness did. Got my tickets for tomorrow night as well but will still be looking forward to another update as this is what really fuels my interst in LOTR

Nelsonia · 16 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

Hello Daw How are you? I hope all is well, great to have Nitha back into the story, if only briefly. Loved the interaction between legolas and Beliond, they are beginning to genuinly take care of each other without really realising it, who will be nana by the end of this, I wonder? What will happen to tinar? will he ever learn to leave his ego behind? I look forward to know why he is behaving like that (as well as the whole Galelas-Tinar story) Thanks for promissing that Eilian will be live and well at the end of the stories, I hope that means future stories as well :p take care Nelsonia

Strange Blaze · 16 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

I like your descriptions of Esgaroth. It's always interesting to see humans who don't know elves that well and their reactions to them. Nitha was quite a surprise to Beliond! I thought maybe he would think that. Apparently she was quite a surprise to Legolas also, though a MUCH more pleasant one. I do sense some shady dealings going on in Esgaroth though. Why didn't they want to give the elves an answer? I'm very glad to see Legolas and Beliond get along. I think he likes his keeper much more than he lets on.

Brenda G. · 16 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

Hi, Daw. Just finished this Chapter, and there is a large grin pasted upon my face. How satisfying, a sweet indulgence before bed! I too am attending the Tuesday Trilogy event and should have been in bed hours ago (although I am a night owl by nature, and it is a hard thing to bring under discipline). Well, back to the story... I'm loving the developing relationship between Legolas and Beliond. A visit to Esgaroth - and the beautiful Nitha! I had to laugh at the way Beliond's mind works, thinking Legolas was courting a human female. Sometimes our young prince needs his ears tweaked for playing out a scene just to fluster his keeper. It's neat to see how these two circle each other all the time. Like Legolas, I too was surprised that Beliond had never visited Esgaroth, but then he spends his leave time in the forests, away from everyone, even other Elves, so I guess there is little in Esgaroth to appeal to him. It is nice to see that Legolas' little flare-ups are being tempered with either humor or contemplation beyond his bristling. He's growing up, and it shows. I love the back and forth exchanges between he and Beliond. There are the beginnings of a friendship here - just the beginnings, but the signs are unmistakable. The kidding and the grudging respect they are both receiving and dispensing is gratifying. Legolas was raised very well to have it disturb him to see a veteran stoop to wash dishes as any rookie would. I thought our young prince was very fine indeed to take over the task himself while he informed Beliond that although it didn't bother Beliond to wash dishes, it must certainly did bother Legolas to see him do something so un-warrior-like. Yes, this is a relationship worth watching. I'm sure Thranduil would be pleased to know how well things are progressing with these two. Speaking of Thranduil, how are things progressing with him? Hey, when are we going to find out about what the Dwarves were warning the Elves about in an earlier chapter? Was it the cut trees they were referring to or something else? As to Beliond's description, I know he is dark-haired, and shorter than Legolas by a couple of inches, but I'm still trying to get a good mental image of what he may look like. By the way, how tall are your Elves - Thranduil, for instance? Just wondering... This was a knockout chapter - great stuff. Well, I've gotta go to bed or I'll never make it through all three films tomorrow. ROTK is here at last! Yes-s-s-s-s! Tell me what you think of it, Daw. Can't wait to fill my eyes with one goodlooking, blond Elven warrior on the morrow... Post again soon, please? BG

Antigone_Q · 15 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

I was impressed by Legolas. Although his temper still tends to flare, he's learned some self-control when speaking to people who are being quite annoying. Good for him for not letting Tinar get to him, and for taking the trouble to explain to Beliond exactly what was going on with Nitha. He really had no obligation to, except in regards to his own concience. I do sympathize with Beliond, though. While he didn't have any reason to doubt what Legolas said, I'm sure Beliond is a little apprehensive about letting ANY kind of harm befall Thranduil's youngest. Anyway, well done chapter. I always like to see Legolas interacting with his fellow warriors.

Antigone_Q · 15 December 2003 · Chapter 5: First Battles

I didn't get a chance to review before, but I liked this chapter very much. Legolas got a taste of battle, and was shaken by it. It seems Beliond was a little shaken by Legolas' close shave with the spider, too. Was Beliond really talking about spiders when he told Legolas about not being able to wipe away the signs of battle? Don't tell me - I'll wait and see. Beliond and Legolas are at least learning to trust each other a little better, which is a nice step towards forming a friendship. I laughed when Legolas found that he was being compared to Eilian, although I wasn't surprised. I wonder what Eilian would say if he knew. And it has finally occured to Legolas that he has Eilian's rune. I bet it means a lot to him that Eilian gave it up. I liked that the brothers wished each other safety.

Fadesintothewest · 15 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

It was happy Legolas was able to see Nitha. At first I did not remember who she was but then it dawned on me as he entered her house. I could understand Beliond's impulse to speak to Legolas, but it seems Beliond is also beginning to see that Legolas is not one to rush into questionable situations. Has Beliond been around Eilian! Well this is perfect end before I go to bed. I am off with my entire family to the Tuesday Trilogy event. I feel like a school girl, I can barely contain my excitement!

naneth · 15 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

AWWWWWWWWW! What an incredibly sweet chapter. I love what it happening with the relationship between Legolas and Beliond. It was kind of sad to see Nitha "all grown up" even though it was fun to see her again. That gave a good perspective of how that must feel to an elf. Keep up the wonderful work. I love what you're doing with this story!

LOTRFaith · 15 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

Ahhh, a young beautiful Nitha hugging a very handsome Legolas. I am so jealous now;-) She was cute when a child, now that she is a woman. She is fair game;-) lol. Poor Beliond, he seemed a little unsettled around men. I hope you do go more into his past. It would be very interesting to see why he is so uptight. I am glad to see that Legolas will humble himself when need be. I thought the whole 'nana' was cute. Please post soon! Namaarie! LOTRFaith

The Karenator · 15 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

Oh boy! A trip to Esgaroth! Certainly, Legolas was thrilled, even if Beliond wasn't. I find myself waiting with anticipation for what Tinar will say next. Indeed, no, an experienced warrior would not be sent on such a menial task. He's a bit of a slow learner....with an ego that would trip an Mumakil! The trip went well. The town leaders weren't too happy to report. I was glad that Legolas got to visit with Nitha...and she was looking...well...good. But boy, did Beliond get a little pithy at the idea that Legolas would be courting a human female. Like he would do that..he wouldn't would, he? He did think she was awfully pretty. Now, during Legolas little buying spree, he bought an unknown piece of jewelry that he apparetnly did not purchase for Nitha. Will Eilian be receiving a package from his younger brother soon? Later, when they got back to camp, Beliond learned a bit more about his charge and seemed to be pleased with the news. Well, I'm being hounded for the computer...exam and project week..so I'm going to stop here. Very good chapter, Daw. Look forward to more. Karen

Nilmandra · 15 December 2003 · Chapter 6: A Visit to Esgaroth

Ah, more Legolas and Beliond! I enjoy this developing relationship between them. Beliond, should he remain Legolas's keeper, will become perhaps the closest older adult outside of his father and brothers to Legolas. I like how they came to the understanding - I am glad that Beliond just doesn't discount Legolas because of his age. He is seeing that Legolas has good qualities and good sense, and yet also making it clear he cares about him too. I am looking forward to learning more about Beliond's past. :-)

Arbelethiel · 15 December 2003 · Chapter 5: First Battles

I love your descriptions of battle :) I can almost feel I’m here. Though I’m glad I wasn’t, because the spiders sounds icky. And frightening. I loved Todith’s warnings. Was he Eilian’s first captain? :D Ah! Now Legolas understands that Eilian gave him his own rune of protection. Will he send him another one? :P ~Arbelethiel

naneth · 14 December 2003 · Chapter 5: First Battles

Just a quick review between Christmas activities..how in the world do you find time to write this time of year?? I'm sure thankful that you do! Your portrayal of Legolas before battle with the spiders seemed very realistic to me. Your description of the spider's nests brought a picture to my mind of thick, dark forest with Spanish Moss hanging from the branches. Think I'll avoid spiders for a few days! I chuckled at Todith's treatment of Legolas. Eilian surely haunts his memory! Beliond certainly had a parent-like reaction to the "near miss" Legolas experienced with the spider. Once you know your child is fine, you suddenly have this rush of anger that your child did such a stupid thing, putting them into danger in the first place. HMMMM, paternal reaction-is that a hint of Beliond's backstory?????

Nelsonia · 14 December 2003 · Chapter 5: First Battles

Hello Daw! great update, i am loving the development of Beliond-Legolas relationship, and i am looking forward to it! Tinar is a pain but I reckon Legolas will learn a lot from him (or thanks to him)especially about self restraint! I read in fanfic that you are thinking of making something happen to Eilian, please do not be too nasty... please? Have you thought about writing a little story from when Lorellin was alive with her family? As always looking forward to your stories! nelsonia