Reviews (443)

calenore · 2 June 2004 · Chapter 31: As the River Runs

Hello! Another good chapter. I really like how your writing is so introspective and character-driven. It's a very nice break from the action-driven writing styles that others use. I thoroughly enjoyed Legolas' encounter with Riel. It was adorable!

lembas7 · 2 June 2004 · Chapter 31: As the River Runs

"his majesty need not know" ?!?!?! Aie, I sense doom on the horizon! Please, no! Please, no! No angst, no doom!! AIIIEEEEE. *find a happy place, find a happy place, find a happy place!!*. Now, from the sanctuary of my happy place (which is in Legolas & Gimli's company) I shall review. I have been happily devouring your story, for the style endears itself to me greatly. I love the charachtarization, and the depth given to the elvish race. Will the same hold true for dwarvish culture? I love your faithfullness to cannon, and am also wondering how long this fic will go on -simply for my own usefullness. Through the gray havens?? (*giggles in delight*) Anwho, I just wanted to tell you that I check your author page every single day for updates, just so's I can read the new chapters immediately on appearance. Great job on this fic, and keep it up!!

lwarren · 2 June 2004 · Chapter 31: As the River Runs

You know, I went back and reread this story from the beginning a couple of days ago, and I have to marvel at the consistent quality of every chapter. This particular chapter has some beautiful imagery in it, and a very endearing encounter between Legolas and King Bard's little princess. What a sweetheart - and I can identify with the little one wanting to stay with "Negonas". Sitting on his lap, winding her fingers in his hair, playing with his circlet...and all the while he is as enchanted as she is. Such a bittersweet moment when Bard comments on what a good father he will make one day, and Legolas response of "not in this lifetime...perhaps in the next". *sniff* And there was one other part where he was thinking about Lorivana and procrastination and how he had learned some sort of difficult lesson. (Dare I ask if you'll tell us about that some day?) I loved the thought brought forth by Bard about a reuniting of the "three kindred". Yes!!!! And Dorthael is a canny one - he knows his Prince well. I was surprised he didn't protest more - but I suppose that decades (or centuries) of dealing with Thranduil had taught him to recognize the "look" on the Prince's face and the tone in his voice. Legolas is very astute in recognizing how to approach the dwarfs...doesn't make it any easier or more comfortable, but this is the way it must be. OK, you got Gimli to Lasgalen...now we go to Erebor! lol...Can I stand the strain? ;) wonderful chapter!!!!!!! linda

Lamiel · 2 June 2004 · Chapter 31: As the River Runs

Oh, to be a child again! I sure as heck wouldn't mind climbing up on Legolas' lap and playing with that beautiful circlet of his. Ahh... Ahem. Coming back to focus, this is a nice chapter. Of course it's a necessary bit of traveling, and something of a plot filler to get us to the Mountain. But it's well written and flows beautifully nonetheless. Personally I appreciate the geography lesson - I was never completely clear on how Esgaroth related to Dale and Erebor. And of course I just love the image of Legolas in those moonbeams. Of course, I like him on the porch in the sun, too. Mmhm. His guard didn't put up quite as much of a protest as I thought he might, but then what could he really do? Faced with the stubborn streak of a son of Thranduil, I'd back down too. Although somehow I doubt that the king will be fooled by Legolas' ruse. Oh well. By that time it will be too late. Now I am looking forward to those Dwarves' reaction at last. Dear Gimli is going to have quite a time.

Ms. Whatsit · 2 June 2004 · Chapter 31: As the River Runs

Awww, Legolas with the little girl was so sweet. He really ought to have elflings, though I bet he'd spoil his daughters rotten. It was interesting seeing him talk to Bard. It must be rather strange for the Men, knowing that Legolas and Thranduil have seen all their ancestors. And a bit sad for the Elves to watch all these people be born and then die. And so Legolas has ditched his guards. Good for him. He really should channel Thranduil more often.

Rose Sared · 2 June 2004 · Chapter 31: As the River Runs

How nice to meet the humans that live near the lonely mountain, such an inventive fic this, I am enjoying it hugely. Thanks, and next into the mountain? With bated breath Rose

Elenora · 2 June 2004 · Chapter 31: As the River Runs

Absolutely excellent, as always! The scene with the child was very poignant. Envisioning Legolas with a small child in his lap, playing with his hair is a charming, gently sweet picture, but is also one that leaves a taste of bittersweetness, knowing as we all do that Legolas never is allowed the gift of wife and children in the "real Middle-Earth universe." You continue to write of Legolas in very appealing ways, with these beautiful word pictures of him that leave me almost breathless! And I loved it when you had the little girl blurt out that he was prettier than her mother!!! That was great! I eagerly look forward to his and Gimli's arrival at Gimli's home...that should prove "intriguing"! Elenora

lwarren · 24 May 2004 · Chapter 30: Down the Swift Dark Stream

This was a great chapter to get a feel for the training Legolas had obviously gone through in order to represent his father. I could almost see him (through your description) nodding and saying to himself, "Yeah, yeah, all right...I know the routine...". *g* The more things change, the more they stay the same sometimes. Love the idea of a hat on Gimli, and a feather, too! Very dashing! Also, had to laugh a little at Erelas telling Gimli that Legolas couldn't deliver the clothes to him in person because he was presently at the mercy of His Majesty! Now on to Erebor...I must confess I am clueless as to the direction you plan to take Legolas and the dwarves of the Mountain...it certainly makes me nervous, but you wouldn't let anything BAD happen to the elf, would you? I mean, Gimli wouldn't permit it...of course, he would be outnumbered....aw heck, I'll just haunt the computer for further updates!!! *grinning, but with bated breath* Another well-written chapter, Coriel!

B. Halcyon · 19 May 2004 · Chapter 30: Down the Swift Dark Stream

"Legolesque diplomacy" - this has got to be the first time I've ever heard of such a term. :) Massive fanfic lurker here who happened to stumble across this wonderful story. Just wanted to drop a note and say good job. P.S. When did Legolas receive his token from the Lady? Was this in another story or vignette?

esamen · 19 May 2004 · Chapter 30: Down the Swift Dark Stream

Something else Gimli only just noticed was that Legolas had plaited Galadriel’s white ribbon into his hair, as an elvish knight would wear such a token from a lady. For a moment he was almost jealous, but a Dwarf with a ribbon would be a ridiculous thing. Wonderful! What a fun touch! Yes, totally ridiculous! This is a great story . . . I can't wait to see what else you have in store for us up your talented sleeve.

sofia · 19 May 2004 · Chapter 30: Down the Swift Dark Stream

I love picturing Gimli with a little hat on!

RogerGamgee · 19 May 2004 · Chapter 1: Not Forgotten

Coriel, I thoroughly enjoyed R&Ring this chapter. Legolas has always struck me as one of the lesser known characters of the Fellowship, largely because he seems to want to be behind the scenes. He doesn't seek accolade for its own sake. His friendship with Aragorn really comes through in your writing. You've portrayed all of the characters very well, and I look forward to reading rhe next chapter in this tale. Excellent!

Lamiel · 19 May 2004 · Chapter 30: Down the Swift Dark Stream

I'm having some trouble picturing Gimli in his new outfit. The cut of the material and the designs are good enough - and I smiled to think of an Elven tailor studying the one Dwarf tunic in the kingdom - but it twists my mind to think of Gimli in that cap. And the feather. The feather! Ha ha! But I love the image of Legolas in his practical finery, and of course it makes sense for the prince to dress like his retainers. Enough of a distinction to serve for diplomatic purposes, but similar enough to make him less of a target. I wonder how Legolas feels, travelling without his bow. It seems such a part of him - I can't imagine he'd much like leaving it behind. He's safe enough without it - his whole body is a weapon, as you said - but I think he'd just like to have it with him. Grinned a lot at Thranduil's warning not to be overly generous to the Men of Esgaroth, and Legolas' plans to ditch the guards in Dale. They surely wouldn't be much help if he wants to make friends at Erebor. And besides, Gimli came to Mirkwood without any guards. He should do the same.

Meddyn2003 · 19 May 2004 · Chapter 30: Down the Swift Dark Stream

Wonderful story, I look forward to every update!

Rose Sared · 19 May 2004 · Chapter 30: Down the Swift Dark Stream

And they are off! To great doings of diplomacy and the hospitality of the dwarves. Mmmmm. bound to be interesting, looking forward to it! Rose

Firnsarnien · 19 May 2004 · Chapter 30: Down the Swift Dark Stream

Ah! Leggy can be pretty crafty at times. Yup, I think Gimli is right, the dwarves dress and the Elves, suggest the Elves are waiting on him. Leggy spares nothing for his friend. Here, a prince, dressing the same as his guards, does so to appear obscure so his friend Gimli can arrive home in the splendor he deserves...not to be overshadowed by an Elven prince! He's sure a thoughtful Elf! Me loves him precious, we do! ;) LOL LOL I have to admit, every time Gimli makes reference to the 'three' strands of Galadriel's hair, I laugh my head off! All I can picture in my mind, is Leggy's panicked face when he realizes one is missing then running off to pluck a hair from Thranduil's head. And Gimli never even realizes the difference! That's too rich! LOL For Legolas sake, I'm glad Calenmir came around. :) Now, only *how* many more to go? ;) LOL *sniff, sniff* That goodbye between Legolas and his father was a little sad! The days went too fast for Thranduil and Legolas to really bond again. Although, yeah, they did do a great job with the little time they had. I'm glad they left on good terms and not angry with each other. I've always found mean Thranduil stories hard to swallow, so it's always nice to get stories like this one...where he's loving and patient and kind and indulgent with his young son. I just love it! :) *sigh* All right, I've blabbed enough! LOL I can't wait for the next chappy! It'll be interesting to see what kind of reception Legolas gets in Gimli's home!

Ms. Whatsit · 19 May 2004 · Chapter 30: Down the Swift Dark Stream

I laughed when I read about "Legolesque diplomacy." Now *there's* an interesting word! Also liked reading about Gimli's outfit and the hat--would it be irreverent to Gimli if I said that the outfit makes him sound like one of Snow White's Seven Dwarves (but in a good way)? Probably. Ah, well. The part with Calenmir was interesting--it seems that Aldamir wants to make sure the Mountain knows him as well as Thranduil. Probably a smart idea. Knowing the dwarves, they would probably bristle at the sight of four Elves guarding Legolas. It's a good idea that he plans to ditch them at Dale. And Thranduil telling Legolas not to get the gifts confused made me laugh. Parents--always assuming that their kids don't know left from right. Even parents like Thranduil.

lwarren · 17 May 2004 · Chapter 29: Gold and Crimson

Oh happy day when I came in to find this story updated! Where to begin....? Gimli smoking in Legolas' closet...because "the fear of Thranduil was still upon him." Smart dwarf! I loved Legolas' reaction to finding him, and his refusal to NEVER go about scented like a Dunadan. (Wonder how many times he actively threatened -or made his threat real- Aragorn with a dousing or a dunking, just to improve the scent?) ;) The Hirildan (The Ladies' Vale)interlude....*sigh* I love that name! Your description of it, starting with -"the distinctive silence of the dead", to the yellow roses Thranduil has kept blooming for ages, "for they were HERS", until finally, Legolas' bleeding hands -"What is an expression of love if for it we make no sacrifice?"- had me scrambling for the tissues. Beautiful imagery there. Thranduil and Legolas...I could read your interactions between these two over and over. I never subscribed to the evil Thranduil written in fanfic...never could figure out where the proof of that was. The relationship between the King and his son is so very close in this story...it has been one of the highlights to see them together. I love Legolas handling his father's hair, "knowing it would soothe them both", and on this day of days they both needed it! Their whole conversation is great, but especially at the end when Adar is giving his son the benefit of his wisdom. Legolas HAS been sheltered, and I think he scares his father because sometimes he seems so darn trusting. "So be it...But let it be said here and now that should any ahrm befall you at dwarvish hands, the Mountain shall learn to rue it before the end." *shiver* 'Nough said! :) Now, on to Erebor! I can't wait to watch Gimli handle the exact same issues that Legolas has been dealing with in Lasgalen. As always, wonderful chapter! linda

Elenora · 17 May 2004 · Chapter 29: Gold and Crimson

Alas, once again I've been woefully remiss in getting reviews to you, although I have been following your story faithfully and am enjoying it immensely! I'm finding the whole scenario taking place in Mirkwood to be really fascinating. The interaction between Gimli and Thranduil is really interesting and very illuminating, especially concerning Thranduil. It will be very intriguing to see what happens once Legolas and Gimli head for Erebor...can Legolas charm his way into the hearts of dwarves other than Gimli??? It will be very interesting to see, LOL! As always, I continue to be impressed with your word pictures of Legolas. You've truly brought out a lot of the ethereal elven qualities, which tend to be sorely lacking in many stories. This point alone has caused me to recommend your story to many other LotR fanfic fans I know. I'm looking forward to the coming chapters...thanks so much for the great read! Elenora

Joana · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 29: Gold and Crimson

"He insisted he was ‘Saruman of the Many Colours’," Legolas corrected, in a sarcastically prim voice. "He preferred to go about now in all the hues of the rainbow." Thranduil snorted emphatically, as though he found that particularly distasteful. "That sounds ridiculous!" he said with a severe bark of a laugh." lol, this part made me laugh! I just can't wait to read the chapter when Legolas meets Gloin... but I suppose we still have to wait a little, no? I loved this chapter. The way you portray Legolas and Thranduil is absolutely marvelous. The part about Legolas's mother was very touching. Keep it up! :)

Firnsarnien · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 29: Gold and Crimson

Ah! I loved this chappy! I really got a kick out of Leggy being so forgiving for Gimli smoking in his closet! I know if it had been me, I would have really been peeved! Pipe smoke is much like cigarrette smoke, it permeates *everything*! Poor Legolas' hands when he is making that circlet of roses! I tell ya, I felt like jumping through my monitor and kissing those poor bleeding hands! ;) Heh, heh! The thought of his Elven blood staining that porcelin skin, eek! Lovely scene though! *sigh* And the touching scene between Thranduil and his son...that was just great! I love the way Legolas ran his hands through his father's hair. Thranduil has always seems so...untouchable...and the fact that he lets his son do that shows how deep his love for Legolas really is. *another sigh* That was just great! BTW...what's Gimli going to give Leggy for his begetting day? Surely, after all Leggy has been through, and the sadness he's had to come home to, (Gimli will too, I'm sure) he deserves something that will make him smile. Something that comes from the dwarfs heart! Just...just...something! Anything! :) Hmmmm? Any ideas? Any plans to do that? Hmmmmm? ;) (hint, hint) LOL Can't wait for the next chappy! :)

Rose Sared · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 29: Gold and Crimson

Oh no, not pipe smoke all through his clothes - yuk! He is really very tolerant of that unpleasant habit of Gimli - I think I would have shortened his beard for him. I love the way Gimli admires Thranduil almost despite himself, and I like the way Thranduil will let his son go, even though it is the last thing he wants to do. Much enjoyed. Rose

daw the minstrel · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 29: Gold and Crimson

I loved the father and son scene. Thranduil is really formidable and you've done a nice job with the relationship between them. Legolas is increasingly independent but obviously loves his father. And Thranduil is trying to let go, which must be hard when he has so much wisdom behind him and he can see that Legolas is more naive.

Ms. Whatsit · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 29: Gold and Crimson

*snerk* So Gimli was hiding in the closet from Thranduil, was he? And yet he's started to like the "Incubus of the South" in spite of himself. The scene in the garden was very touching, with the mention of the dead elven-women and Lindoriel and even the brief bit about Gimli's mother--I bet she'll be amusing! I especially liked Gimli nagging Legolas about cutting his hands. I can imagine that he'd often worry about the whimsical Elf getting himself hurt. So few authors deal with the fact that Thranduil might actually *miss* Legolas after he leaves for Ithilien and later Valinor, mostly because they seem to favor Evil!Thranduil or even just Mean!Thranduil. It's nice to see it mentioned here. Very considerate of Thranduil to let his son take off with a chunk of Mirkwood's population so soon after the war, all things considered. There were many details I liked a lot--the bit about Legolas not wanting to run around scented like a Dunadan, and Thranduil's relationships with the Istari. Somehow I do see Radagast as being friendly with Mirkwood, though I'm not sure where in canon I got that idea.

calenore · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 29: Gold and Crimson

Have I told you before that I love your Thranduil? He's so multilayered, in a good way, I mean. Of course, that's how I'd expect him to be after the life he's lived. I like the way he and Legolas interact; they're similar and yet oh so different, and it's easy to see the ways their two different lives have shaped their personalities. I liked the idea of the little graveyard for the fallen women of Lasgalen; I haven't seen that before in fanfiction and i thought it was a nice idea.