Reviews (176)

Camp6311 · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

This story is tantalizing fun. It just invites you to speculate and then drops little clues along the way. I think I am going to enjoy reading this one even more the second time through, once it's complete. On the second reading I will be in the know instead of in a fog like I am now. I don't know if I quite follow Sinnarn and Admir's reasoning, the captain is already mad at us, so let's do something that will make him even madder?? Looking forward to more hints in the upcoming chapters.

Karri · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

You are going to let us in on the secret eventually, right? ;-) I'm very glad to see Legolas is recovering and Sinnarn is taking some responsibility. He will turn out well, just like all of his uncles. I still worry for Amdir. Though I know he has likely survived this story, he is just a bit too much like Turgon...and we all know what fate befell that little imp.

Jay of Lasgalen · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

I'm wondering now just how long Legolas has been laid up? It seems to be quite some time, considering that Sinnarn's hands have completely healed, and Thranduil has apparently been sitting with him for some time. And Ithilden has been dealing with the advisors? So what was the dangerous mission Legolas was sent on? That has to be something to do with the dragon, but how did the others become involved? I hope that he recovers some more memories - but I do like his method of interrogating Sinnarn without arousing suspicion. However, Thranduil and Ithilden are not stupid - I wonder if they realise something is wrong, and are waiting for Legolas to admit it? Jay

LKK · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

I'm guessing that the small daughter of Legolas' best friend is Annael's daughter. Am I right? If so, congratulations to him. :-) Now, on to the mystery..... so far, I still haven't seen any behavior by Legolas that warrants discipline. But I realize we haven't reached the crux of the events. Something Sinnarn and Amdir do drags Legolas into the situation, I'm pretty sure of that. But beyond that, I have few thoughts save this. The family's behavior towards Legolas doesn't seem to indicate that they are angry or upset with him. Perhaps their fear for his health is overriding their anger about his behavior. But I'm not sure. Do I sound confused? LOL Well, I am. But I still like the mystery! LKK

sol3 · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

Hmmm, more of the puzzle comes forth. It's interesting to see how some family 'traditions' come to be handed down from generation to generation, watching Legolas try out lines his father has used successfully with his own sons :) The new Captain may prove to be a difficulty. Good that Sinnarn is there to make the clumsy mistakes and take the heat from his uncle. Sometimes it is good to hang back and see the lay of the land with someone else getting in trouble (a technique I recommend highly, having been educated by living with the Sister from Hell). Nice touch there :) But we now circle closer to the matter of that dragon. I wondered at the time what could have been happening so that two younglings and one relatively new warrior were left taking on a dragon by themselves. Not that the instructions from Legolas weren't sound -- at least to someone who has also never faced a dragon -- but only three of them? WHen the cavalry showed up it left more questions than answers, but I begin now, after two more chapters of mystery, to fear that Legolas had been involved in some bit of unauthorized daring-do. I do feel badly for him as pain and guilt are a very bad combination. Family seems supportive so far, but we've yet to here from Eliond on that matter, and that brother may be totally buried under the Captain. We'll hope for the best, and send get well cards. And best wishes for a speedy recovery to Beliond! I hope he still has all his fingers, as burns can be horrible. Thanks for sharing, and as always I'm waiting for more :)

Jebb · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

I think I am finally getting there! Of course I could b quite wrong I usually am there was a real insight into Eilian here as well as Sinnarn. Thranduil is so wonderful I love him to bits the way you write him but even he is being bullied this time round And all the lovely little bits that make this more than a story 'He was further annoyed to see Thranduil and Belówen exchange a glance and to realize that his own wishes in the matter were probably going to count for little.' Ada alert!!! Legolas was always amazed at how indulgent Thranduil was toward his grandson compared to how demanding he had always been and still was toward his sons. I wonder if Eilian thought the same about Legolas? And Legolas could now remember the dismay he had felt at Eilian’s words. “I do not need you to keep an eye on me,” he had protested. LIke it or not I suspect he now has even more people keeping an eye on him! Thank you

naneth · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

That was a very rude awakening for poor Legolas! I think that Belowen learned a valuable lesson for a healer that works with warriors-make sure they are either awake before you begin your exam or make sure they won't wake up during the exam. Poor guy! I laughed so hard at the scene between Eilian and Sinnarn. Eilian was so calm as he explained that this was an "uncle" conversation, not a "captain" conversation, then when that's understood, he not so calmly jerked him up by his tunic front to *explain* things to his nephew. That was priceless! Good chapter with a wonderful hint about Anneal and his apparently growing family, a little enlightment about past events, and, as usual, the wonderful, warm family of Thranduil to entertain us. You seriously ever thought we would be bored with this story?????

erunyauve · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

Shame on Legolas for using his nephew like that! I laughed out loud at Sinnarn's observation that Eilian would be "more likely to take away our weapons and tell us not to play with anything sharp.” Legolas might be underestimating his brother a little if he thinks that his experience will make Eilian any less overprotective of him. Of course, Eilian sees himself in Sinnarn, which would scare any captain, and the combination of Sinnarn and Turgon's little brother is a recipe for disaster. It does seem that Eilian overreacted a little to the horseplay in the flet - I don't think he would have been as angry with another warrior.

Antigone_Q · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

Wow! I liked this chapter a lot. For one thing, Legolas' tactics for finding out what happened to him were hilarious. As soon as he said, "What were you thinking?" I nearly fell out of my chair laughing, and then the sympathetic follow up with, "Do you want to talk about it?" was too much. I chuckled all the way from my computer to the kitchen and back. And Thranduil bowing to an insistent "Naneth says..." I like Alfirin so much! I liked the story from Sinnarn's point of view - and I always wondered what happened to Turgon's younger brother. I very much hope Amdir doesn't meet the same end - but then, Amdir has adults at least looking out for his well-being, where as Turgon never did seem to. Eilian is certainly getting his comeuppance for being so reckless when he was younger - now he has to herd Amdir and other young warriors who are just as reckless as he was. I'm sure Eilian finds it frustrating but I'm getting a kick out of it. But really Daw, how can you leave Legolas and your poor readers hanging like this? We want to know what happened!

Tapetum Lucidum · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 3: Sinnarn's Story

Hey! You don't usually post during the day! Not that I am complaining... Ouch! That is a tough way to wake up, and it is not recommended to break your healer's arm. Payback is painful. I am glad to see Thranduil is still hovering. Even when they are completely well you still worry about your kids. Legolas' little game is going well so far, I think someone will eventually figure out he has no memory of what happened. LOL: "Naneth says" those dreaded words. I am glad there is someone around who can set Thranduil straight. I am glad it is Alfirin. Your portrayal of her as a strong woman is a good one. Sinnarn and Legolas seem to have a good relationship, now we can finally get some hints... Having the story from Sinnarns' POV was a nice new twist. I think it is the first time you have done that. He does seem like a mini Eilian - very scary. That will probably make his uncle even more protective of him. Legolas does tend to feel responsible for all of those around him. I am glad it encompasses Amdir as well. One day, maybe, Sinnarn will learn the details of Turgon's death and understand why Legolas feels more parental to Amdir than to others. Uh oh, Nitron is treating Sinnarn like Ithilden. That definitely won't work. They are polar opposites and he will probably only foster ill feelings rather than do anything constructive. Your little notes from the letters were well done. A snippet of feeling without too many details or glossing over the whole thing. Wrestling for an apple and almost falling out of a tree. That sounds like typical boy behavior. It wasn't even a good apple. Eilian's reaction was certainly strong. I like your concept of his fear for Sinnarn because he sees himself. Very clever. You are a torturing me by stopping there! Alfirin is apparently just as protective as the rest of the family. I would expect her to be more perceptive than the men and realize that Legolas is clueless as to what happened. Women are just generally a lot smarter. :-)

meckinock · 19 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

Nothing like waking up after a dragon attack feeling like the dragon won, only to find out that on top of that, you're being court-martialed by your own brother for an offense you can't even remember, and you're afraid to tell anyone because the court-martial is preferable to the dance of the mother hens once they find out you've got amnesia. Is this Legolas's day, or what? The flashback sequence was interesting. Thranduil sure knows how to set someone up for failure (he really should listen to his wife more), although I'm sure Ithilden will rise to the occasion, after maybe a false start or two. Nice interaction between him and Beliond. Doesn't like training young warriors, huh? This will be fun to watch.

The Karenator · 18 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

Poor Legolas! Not only is he in terrible pain, but he has a case of, (selective?), amnesia. He must feel like a fish out of water. He's been filleted and battered and waiting to be fried! I imagine he is quite worried by the news that Eilian might be 'disciplining' him. I'd be nervous. The look back into Ithilden's youth was interesting. I really enjoyed getting to see a bit of Lorellin. Poor dear..she's only been around postmortem. Maybe I'm a bit of a voyeur, but I really like seeing her interact with Thranduil. Even though we've seen nothing of her, I've always had the feeling that she was the balance in Thranduil's life. Thus, I've missed her, too. And seeing Beliond, pre-Legolas, was an opportunity to know not only more about him, but to help understand him. But then, I've always liked him. I'm short on time...(Panthers in the play-offs and my nephew, interestingly enough, not named Sinnarn, works for them, so we are pulling for the Super Bowl), so I better run. Just wanted to say how much I'm enjoying this and look forward to more about Ithilden as a younger elf and finding out 'what the heck' Legolas and Sinnarn did. You never disappoint, Daw. Carry on...Karen

Lera · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

I read in one of your author's notes that you were afraid this story was going to be boring. Quite the contrary! To tell you the truth I'm never too worried by cliffhangers where we don't know if a character is still alive. I mean I know no matter what, Legolas has to live. But what you've done here...a sort of emotional cliffhanger. I'm dying to know exactly what Legolas doesn't remember! Why does he feel guilty? What did Sinnarn and Amdir do? And where were Beliond and Nithron? Ahhhh! I'm also enjoying seeing a younger Ithilden. I love the guy and I'm looking forward to seeing what made him into exactly who he is today. Also, not to be greedy or demanding, but I'd really like to know how Annael's doing. Obviously he's married by now. Does he have any elflings? You've really done a magnificent job of creating characters that are real and personable. Thank you so much for the enjoyment you give so many readers. God bless.

Dot · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

You’re utterly maddening, daw! Dropping all these little hints. What a clever way to keep us all gripped - Legolas trying to unravel what happened while we do the same. But it’s at times like this that I really wish I were a more patient person…! Didn’t Legolas suffer from bad dreams after his mother died as well? It seems to be his way of dealing with, or rather not dealing with, horrific events. I wonder what disturbed him so much… I could be wrong, but it seems that part of the reason he doesn’t remember could be because he might not want to, whether he realises it or not. Still, he does seem genuinely frustrated that everyone else around him does remember. It’s a bit worrying, though. Surely someone has to realise soon – if not his family, then the healer. Thranduil seemed to know in the previous chapter though, when he had to tell Legolas how the events began, even though presumably Legolas would have been told most of that by Eilian. I guess I’ll just have to wait and see how things go….;) Hmmn. So Sinnarn is in trouble. Amdir seems to be just as much a troublemaker as Turgon was – although possibly a little less loveable. And Legolas might need to be disciplined?? I’m guessing by his feelings of guilt and incompetence that he did something that led others into unnecessary danger. Of course, as his protector Beliond would have had to follow him. I don’t even know Nithron and I feel sorry for him being Sinnarn’s guard after he had been responsible for Ithilden. That must have been a shock! The glimpse into Ithilden’s past was fascinating! He and Eilian do seem to have had more experiences than Legolas but I imagine that it’s nothing more than overprotectiveness by Thranduil of his last child, who had to grow up without a mother and in a time of increasing danger. Lorellin is wonderful. She’s only in such a small part of this chapter, yet she’s so vividly drawn. I love the little signs of her loving relationship with Thranduil – the way she leans against him, despite their argument, and the way he tenderly kisses her hand. She does seem a little more vibrant than her husband and son. I can see more of Eilian’s spirit in her and perhaps a little of Legolas. There’s something quite touching about the idea that she desperately wants her son to experience the more joyous side of life, away from duty. She clearly knows exactly what Ithilden is like - “you will expect too much from yourself and leave no room in your life for play or for joy”. It’s interesting to think that the only other person to encourage the lighter side of him is Alfirin. Ithilden himself in his younger days is so completely believable – almost the same person, just slightly less experienced. He has the same logical and calm way of assessing things and he appears to always have been so shrewd, clearly seeing how difficult it was for Thranduil to send him south, no matter what he said to his wife. He reads Thranduil so well, a gift that has worked well for him over the years. Ah, there’s Beliond – as grumpily endearing as ever! He seems impressed, though, by Ithilden’s assessment of Anilith and lack of fear in stating his doubt in his worth as a warrior. “Everyone makes mistakes, Legolas”. Now, Ithilden is obviously telling this story for a reason. What did he do?? Something that remained with Beliond for so long that he never wanted anything to do with one of the king’s sons again?! No, but seriously, it’d be really interesting to see Ithilden in the days when he was still learning and still making mistakes. I’m so intrigued! He seems to be trying to teach Legolas that it’s o.k to make mistakes but it’s killing me not to know what either of them has done! And just what has Beliond got to do with it all?! *sigh* I have this image of you at home gleefully concocting ways to confuse us! Still, all this confusion and mystery is really quite enjoyable!:)

Molly · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

So by the time Legolas shoots down the winged Nazgul along the Anduin, he's already had much the same experience with dragons! Interesting. I'm also curious to find out why everyone seems to think Legolas has made a mistake. Perhaps he feels guilty because Sinnarn and Beliond were wounded trying to help/protect him? I'm eager to read more.

Antigone_Q · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

I thought you described the confusion Legolas feels upon waking very well. And Legolas is having memory problems, but not so many that he can't remember that Thranduil likes to fuss over him (lol)! Seriously, I think it's great that Legolas can't remember everything, but he can remember who he trusts right away. As I've said before, it's wonderful that Legolas has such a close-knit family. Yay! We get to see a Beliond in his earlier days! And Ithilden! Ithilden made a mistake or two, hm? Any chance we're going to hear about this? Thranduil seems a lot less over-protective 600 years ago. But then, I supose the realm was less dangerous then. Um, Anilith - have we seen him before? If so, I could use a quick reminder. Poor Beliond! I hope he is all right! I was just beginning to be fond of him.

Antigone_Q · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 1: Hunting Dragons

Wow! Talk about starting in the middle of the action! Dwarves and dragons and mishaps - I can tell this is going to be an exciting story already!

Tapetum Lucidum · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

Ahh, Lots of Legolas angst, my favorite. Sounds like whatever happened scared the heck out of him. I can't wait to find out what it was. I would think Sinnarn thinks the world of Legolas at this age and it is quite alarming to have his hero injured and frightened. Ithilden was smart to send him away. Legolas' memory problems is a clever way to feed us the story a little at a time. You have me dying to know what happened. I was sorry Ithilden felt hurt, I guess he hasn't figured out that Legolas doesn't know what is wrong so he certainly can't tell his older brother. Legolas' concern for Beliond is very touching. He may have a lot of guilt to overcome if he is indeed responsible for the older warrior's injuries. Go Ithilden! He has the sense to distract the distraught elf from his current problems. It must have been hard for young Ithilden to carry the weight of his father's expectations from the time he was born. Sounds like he was always the serious one and even his naneth worried about him. He must have felt a lot of pressure being appointed lieutenant. You described his internal turmoil very well - self doubt, excitement and a touch of fear. Nithon sounds like he was an excellent mentor and Ithilden an excellent student. I am sure their closeness made it easier to assign him to guard Sinnarn. I have no doubt that Beliond was an imposing captain and his question about Anilith had been a little test. What are those dwarves up to anyway? Your double story line is going very well thus far. I am desperately trying to figure out what happened. The changes in POV and timelines work well. You must have put a lot of thought into this one and planned it well for all of the lines to weave together at the end.

Jebb · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

Now this was very interesting I went back and read the first chapter and still cannot think what it is that Legolas might have done that might bring him in front of Eilian to be disciplined, Sinnarn definitely! (too much like his uncle Eilian) The story with Ithilden and Beliond is fascinating a real glimpse into what has made them into the elves they are now I hope we get more thank you

Fadesintothewest · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

Well, now I am wondering why Legolas has not been sent to the Southern Patrol. I would dare guess that he has just as many strengths as his brothers. Hmm, it seems they are holding his development back, but it seems wrong as Eilian, who was/is so unstable was already captain at Legolas' age in this story. Doesn't seem right. I concur with Legolas, something is amiss, afterall if he weren't all he is supposed to be then Legolas wouldn't have been chosen to be part of the fellowship, so Thranduil and co. must be overprotective with him being the youngest and all, methinks. It was interesting to read about Ithilden's early days and his interactions with Beliond. Seems to me Beliond also got to interact with Eilian as he misjudged Legolas when he first met him. I cannot wait to read how this story unfolds, although I would like tad more Legolas in the story!

erunyauve · 16 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

Somehow, I'm guessing that the novice masters knew all along that Anilith was the other guilty party - maybe they guessed that the distrust of his fellow novices and later warriors would make an impression on him. This should be an interesting tale - it sounds like Ithilden has an underlying message for Legolas and his guilt in the battle with the dragon, even if Legolas can't quite remember it. And it seems to me that as Sinnarn has grown, Ithilden has turned into every bit the stern, loving father Thranduil was to his sons.

Nilmandra · 16 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

The dream worked nicely here. There are a number of nice details in this chapter - Beliond's dislike for training new warriors, and then he is later saddled with Legolas; Thranduil's slightly softer side in the earlier story, definitely Lorellin's influence; the consistency in Ithilden's personality - such a rock for his father; and Legolas's basic beliefs in life come through his confusion - Adar is not to be argued with, Ithilden will make things right and a command from his commanding officer (wake up!)is to be obeyed with a snap!

naneth · 16 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

Poor Legolas. It's bad enough to be in trouble, but to have no real memories of why you're in trouble, but to have a feeling that you probably deserve to be is awful. I keep wondering just who is in that cave, anyway???? Despite learning that Beliond is basically O.K., you have added even more questions to the mystery! Keep updating quickly-the suspense is excruciating!

LKK · 16 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

This is a real puzzler that you've presented, daw. What did Legolas do -- or didn't do -- that would warrant disciplinary action against him? True, he has had reckless adventures in the past, but he's always taken his warrior duties quite seriously. Something seems very wrong here. Well, if you were trying to guarantee that I'll read the next chapter, you've certainly done a fine job of it! (Not that I wouldn't have read the next chapter anyway. :-) ) Ithilden made a better first impression on Beliond than Legolas did. But given Ithilden's more serious personality, that doesn't surprise me too much. I expect we'll eventually hear of one of Ithilden's mistakes. That'll be interesting since he doesn't seem to make many now. Looking forward to more puzzle pieces!

Karri · 16 January 2004 · Chapter 2: A New Lieutenant

Okay, I just reminded myself that you can't kill Amdir cause he alive later. *whew* I feel marginally better, but not really, cause I'm still waiting for the other shoe to drop when we find out what catastrophe occurred that Legolas doesn't want to remember. A!