Reviews (406)

Antigone Q · 28 March 2004 · Chapter 5: Campaigning

I was amused at how Eilian compares courting Celuwen with drawing up a battle plan. Poor Elf - for someone so experienced with women, some information just seems to go right over his head. I do hope Sólith can overcome his reservations about the match so Celuwen can be happy. He asks a very valid question though: could Eilian give up his adventuring and stay out of trouble and closer to home? Looking forward to more!

Nilmandra · 28 March 2004 · Chapter 5: Campaigning

May I rant about Solith again? I want to knock him up alongside the head and ask him why he thinks so little of his daughter. Does he think she has to be dumped by Eilian to move on with life? IF she wanted life without Eilian, she would have it! Dumb Solith! But Celuwen comes across wonderfully well. She is clearly in love and hurting all at once, and she knows it. I would love to be a fly on the wall as she confronts her father - and he needs confronting! Celuwen is a strong person - she can handle being a warrior's wife! Ok, side rant on that - I like how Solith looks down on Eilian for the work he does, but he sure expects those warriors to be at his beck and call when he needs them! But, in the end, no matter how stubborn and wrong and dumb he is, he does love his daughter and for that we will forgive much.

Tapetum Lucidum · 28 March 2004 · Chapter 5: Campaigning

An all Eilian chapter? That is unusual. Neither of them slept well? I wonder why... Poor Eilian's hip is still bothering him - the sympathy angle is always a good one to play with the ladies. I was glad the young couple got a little time to themselves and that the family got some breakfast. Hunting with Solith? An angry father and weapons are seldom a good combination. Outshooting him is not usually a good idea either. I can't believe the man is so pig-headed about his daughter's happiness. The elf is a prince, a captain and gorgeous! What more does he want? I guess a timid, stay at home husband who will do whatever his father-in-law tells him. That is definitely not Eilian. Ok, that was not the best way to approach the marriage thing. It was good to plow along with the discussion and find out exactly where he stands. Hooray for Isiwen! At least mom has some sense. I feel kind of sorry for Solith when both his wife and his daughter lay into him. He doesn't have a chance. I admire Eilian for not wanting to portray Solith in a bad light to Celuwen. He did make the right decision - she needed to know what happened and he should not lie to her about it. Like I said, Solith is now doomed. Sounds like Legolas' job is about to get a lot worse. A swollen river and more rain may cause a bit of flooding. Looking forward to your next update. It was a very long week!

dr_seuss_is_cool · 28 March 2004 · Chapter 5: Campaigning

why hello. How was san antonio? and wow...that was awesome i loved how you got Solith and Eilian to talk i am very unpleased by Solith's behavior...tsk tsk anyways, i just don't know how it's going to work for Eilian and Celuwen...i am very worried but i shall not fear anyways...thank you for writing great job! A tout a l'heure

erunyauve · 28 March 2004 · Chapter 5: Campaigning

Ai, Eilian has done it now! Solith seems very sure of himself, and he must have known that Eilian would eventually mention the letters. I can't help but think that Isiwen will have a few things to say, however. Still, Eilian is back to square one with Celuwen - he can't give up his work and she can't get over her fears for him. I can't help but think, though, that she's too overcautious. She wants certainty and it's just not there.

Ms. Whatsit · 28 March 2004 · Chapter 5: Campaigning

(I'm The Reviewer Formerly Known As Portia, But Who Upon Trying To Register at FFN Discovered A Million Others of That Name And So Registered There and Here Under This One. :P) I hope you had a good trip! And I am amazed that you already have a new chapter up. Wow. I want to see Celuwen confront Solith. Ah, well, Eilian can't see everything, I guess. I'm glad she knows about the returned letters now. It's also nice to see Eilian concerned about the state of things at home even when he's off dallying with his girlfriend, as the last line shows. The confrontation with Eilian and Solith was, well, Eilianish. He must love Celuwen very much indeed to be willing to put up with such a father-in-law. And it was funny hearing about Lorellin helping Celuwen put a snake in Eilian's bed. Elven-queens aren't supposed to behave like that! Tsk, tsk. I like the title of this chapter, too, because it strikes me that Eilian is seeing his courtship of Celuwen in a militaristic way.

esamen/karen · 27 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

As if eager to be off, his horse pranced a little under him when he turned again to face his father. Oh, lovely! I can see that prancing horse with gorgeous Legolas now! I am still loving every story of your Woodland Realm. Children, politics, foolish fellow warriors, winsome Elven maidens and our lovely Legolas who is all heart . . . and fire . . . and calculating dynamite. You have created such a gorgeous playground with your work. You'll be in San Antonio for the conference? Email me if you would like some nice relaxing Arda conversation. I'll come out to the hotel.

Antigone Q · 24 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

I liked Eilian's reunion with Celuwen. I guess Eilian has his own "diplomatic mission" to fulfill - though I would like to think Celuwen's father would rather see her and Eilian together rather than see her fade. Trust Tinar to say the wrong thing at the wrong time! But Legolas seems to have handled a delicate situation very well. And he's taking an interest in a particular Elf maiden? Interesting - I wonder where that will go.

White Wolf · 23 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

I got busy and fell behind and then you updated before I finished the last chapter. Sooo... I'll make my comments on Ch 3 first. I was so glad to see Thrnaduil put his trust in Legolas to handle a delicate situation. I was also glad that Celuwen was so happy to see Eilian. He sure gets all hot and bothered every time he touches her. I love it. Legolas did great handling the food situation in the settlement. Thranduil will be even more proud of him. He won't be happy about the settlement trading with men without his permission or knowledge, though. Loved the carrot scene with the elfling.

Any · 23 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

This chapter has been so much fun to read! :) I don't even know where to start. First of all: Legolas did so well. I mean it's his first official mission as the King's son and he chooses his appearance and words so well. Great. He surely is gifted in the diplomatic area as well! I must say I wanted to kick Anyr up the backside for apparently not being the slightest bit grateful! I mean, I can understand he doesn't believe that even the King and his family have not enough food, but, hell, in times as bad as these he should be grateful for the smallest help he can get! *shakes head* I must say, again I'm irritated by Tinár. A lot! What is this guy thinking? Quote: >>"You can take care of mine on the way home."<< *groan* Hello? This is the prince, you twit!!! A bit more respect, please! *argh* I'm so glad Galivion is there! Quote: >>Galivion seized Tinár’s arm and jerked him back out of the clearing. Tinár looked startled by the strength of the advisor’s grasp.[...] “On this mission, you will address the son of your king as ‘my lord,’” Galivion snapped. “And you will take care of his horse and anything else he needs tended to while he does the task he was sent here to do.”<< YEAH!!!!!! *cheers excitedly for Galivion* It was about time someone told this nimp where his place is! :) I like the kinda romantic bit in this chapter as well. Quote: >>I have been isolated among warriors too long, he thought in exasperation. I am evidently ready to pounce on the first pretty maiden I see.<< *ROTFL* Oh my! Poor Legolas! He surely must have some sort of hormone-galores recently! *lol* It's definitely time for him to have a nice maiden. I don't know how far you plan to let all this go but I'm afraid not too far as there's no mentioning of Tuilinn in "A Question of Duty". Surely Legolas would have thought of her at least once during his time in Imladris or send her a letter or something before going on the Quest if they'd still be a couple. Mhm, so no long-lasting romance for Legolas :( Or maybe you just didn't know yet that Tuilinn exists when you wrote "A Question of Duty"? And that's why she's left out? Somehow I hope that's the reason. Legolas deserves to have a nice maiden. And more so a maiden that's obviously good with elflings! Maybe there's even more to her than it seems at first and she turns out to be Anyr's daughter or so? ;) Would be interesting concerning the relationship between the settlers and the King... I'm eager to find out more. Even though I'm afraid Tinár will approach her first (arrogant as he is) and/or ruin everything!!! *argh* I must say I'm a bit confused about the following scene, I quote: >>From behind him, he could hear Galivion talking to Anyr. “Legolas has just returned from the south where our warriors have spent a cold and hungry winter,” he was saying. “The needs are great all over the realm.” The maiden’s eyes flicked momentarily to Galivion and then back to Legolas.<< Now, what does her reaction tell us? First of all she seems to be interested in Legolas, no? And is she impressed that he's a warrior on the most dangerous patrol in the realm? Somehow I don't think something like that could impress her. Probably she is worried! Or does she thinks something like "Oh, damn it, I hoped that sexy guy would be on a patrol closer to our settlement!" ;)*LOL* Well, I'm sure you'll enlighten me within the next chapters... :) Legolas was sooo sweet with Ródien! I didn't know he'd be so good with children, but then again, he couldn't really be anything else, eh? He's simple the best! :) And he seems to be quite inventive as well!... Enemy carrots? Where the heck did you pull that out from? Simply brilliant! I love it! :) One more thing before I stopp rambling on endlessly. Quote: >>Things were going well, he thought. His father should be pleased.<< O.o I have a strong feeling of foreboding here! Don't count your chickens before they're hatched, I'd say... Have fun in SAntonio! :) But don't let us wait too long for the next chappie! :) Cheers, ~Any

tigerlily713 · 23 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Great chapter! Have fun in San Antonio! Lily

tigerlily713 · 23 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Finally Eilian and Celuwen will communicate without a middle-man, or should I say a middle-elf! Great chapter! Lily

Estel_Mi_Olor · 22 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Oof-that went well! Legolas was amazing! His diplomacy was in no way lacking. I would like to thank Galivion for disciplining Tinár; he is the most unbearable Elf. Imagine the nerve of him, treating his Lord and Prince as a comrade on such an important mission, and without his permission. Anyr seems exactly the sort of settler you would imagine; ruggedly independent, accepting help, but not voicing his gratitude. I stated previously that Legolas's diplomacy was in no way lacking, however I have a change to make to that comment. He should not be examining pretty maidens while working. I am sure neither Galivion nor Anyr missed the pointed stare of our Elven Prince. Legolas is so adorable when he decides to play Nana. Good luck in San Antonio, and I eagerly await the next chapter, in which, hopefully, Eilian will ask Celuwen to bond to him?

Dot · 22 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

I think I smiled the whole way through this chapter. I suppose what I particularly liked about it was seeing Legolas in his role as the king’s son. Can I ask a completely pointless question? What colour were the silk shirt and surcoat?? I just want to make sure I’m picturing it right…! I love the idea that he took such care in his appearance, knowing that it would reflect on his father and not wanting anything to go wrong for Thranduil, least of all as a result of his own behaviour. It’s so touching, really, that as much as he wants to do his duty as a prince of the realm, a lot of his nervousness is due to the fact that he desperately doesn’t want to let his father down. I can’t tell you how much I loved seeing the display of royalty here, especially such touches as “Legolas kept a careful step behind him on his right, and Galivion walked a further step behind on the king’s left.” We don’t see it too often and I just really enjoyed this part of their lives! Tinár??? *sigh* He nearly had me tearing my hair out. It’s quite worrying actually that you really seem to write his irritating manner with such ease… All I can say is that they’re lucky Galivion has no qualms about dealing with him. Oh, before I forget to mention it, in the line “Then, feeling as if he had somehow slipping into the wrong position in line…” I think there’s a typo…Should it be “slipped”? I had to laugh at the way Legolas desperately tries to look dignified, probably in front of Tinár more so than the settlers, but he ends up squelching through the thick mud. Poor Legolas. What a friendly meeting, though! I was obviously completely biased against the settlers. That Sólith has a lot to answer for! Anyr seems nice enough, in the beginning at least. I love the way he speaks of the river as a living entity and shows so much respect for it. It really allows us to see that he does indeed have very close ties to nature and makes it easier to understand his reasons for living as he does. It’s very interesting that not only are these elves trading with men but are taking care of human children. I wonder if the food is being used to feed them too. No matter how kind a heart Thranduil has I doubt if he’d like that very much. I thought Legolas did a great job in explaining the situation to Anyr. He seemed to get across the fact that the king did his best and regretted that he simply could not do more. I’m glad he stressed the fact that elves all over the realm were suffering, especially the adults and including the king. “We asked for what we needed, and if the king cannot provide it, then we need nothing else.” Hmmn. I don’t blame Legolas for feeling exasperated. I understand that Anyr might think the king has more food than they say but surely he has to know that the harsh conditions affected everyone. He does seem reasonable but I’d say Legolas and co. would want to tread very carefully for a while yet. It’s good, though, that Galivion thinks he has done well and lets Legolas know this. He’s really the only one with experience in these matters so I imagine that his opinion is important to Legolas. Plus, he’ll probably be reporting to the king! “You can take care of mine on the way home.” That’s so funny! He honestly doesn’t seem to have any idea at all of the way he should treat Legolas. I had a mini cheer when Galivion reprimanded him. It probably won’t make much of a difference but it was great fun to see! Tuilinn, eh?? How come all the babes are in the settlements? Wouldn’t it be funny if two of Thranduil’s sons married maidens from settlements and then moved there?? They could as long as Ithilden is at home. Oh yeah, the quest, the ring, big war… Well, Eilian could still do it! “Things were going well, he thought. His father should be pleased.” Isn’t it tempting fate a bit to say that?! I do hope it works out for Legolas, but I have the feeling that he might find that diplomatic missions aren’t quite this simple… Ah, so you’re making us wait a while for the next chapter? I won’t make any smart comments about how they probably have computers in San Antonio…;) Seriously, though, I really enjoyed this chapter. You really showed Legolas beginning to grow into his role as well the slight undercurrent of tension with Anyr and the doubt, then growing admiration Galivion has for Legolas. It’s great to see Annael here as well – I’m as grateful to Ithilden as Legolas is! I like the way Legolas’ status doesn’t bother him at all. Of course, he mightn’t get to spend much time with Legolas if our young lord doesn’t take his eyes off that maiden!

mistry89 · 22 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

"The Young Lord" He really is coming along nicely. And good to see that this change (from elfling to novice to warrior to king's representative), needs affirming in the eyes of others- not just the settlement elves and strangers, but in to his cohorts, in particular to those who feel they have superiority. Understanding the different levels of command amd leadership, especially when by "right" rather than by strength of arm or skill with bow, or voice comes hard to some. Tinar is in for further "bad news", I fear. Legolas in "prince mode" is a treat to see ... umm. hear... read. :) Thank you, and have a safe trip.

Anonymous · 22 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Daw, You chapters provide me with such a relief right now! I've been stuck at home sick in the last few days, so it was great to read about Legolas maturing into the warrior of the Fellowship. I love the continuity that you provide with each of your story. Truly well done. It's always such a delight to open up the mailbox and see that you have a chapter out! May I guess that if anything should befall on our 'elfling' dear Nana Beliond will not be amused at all? Imagine Legolas going away without him! On the other hand it was wonderful to see the young prince handling such a difficult assignment with the maturity that Thranduil be most proud of. I'm usually such an anti-Legolas romance person, but knowing that you're in charge, I can rest easy. It would be wonderful for him to have someone special in his life like that. He loves his family wholeheartedly, but at the same time, a nice maiden would be something to *really* look forward to on leave. As long as he has a bit more restrain that Eilian, I do not think that Adar would be too upset. Speaking of dear older brothers, Eilian is always capable of getting himself into trouble. I do feel sorry for him though. I really wish that one day he'll be able to follow his heart, bond with Celuwen and provide his Adar with lots of little hell-raisers (... I mean elflings...) :-) Vic Ps Would it be at all possible to have another story with a little Legolas? I actually thought may be show his adoration for Eilian at a younger age- like when he learns to talk. May be have 'Eilian' or part of it as his very first word... ack...Plot bunny is hopping around here!

caz -baz · 22 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

i'm a little obsessive about rabbit's. we have so many i go out shooting them which really is a bit mean but my father farms so it needs doing. intresting fact - if you don't have a knife you can skin a rabbit by using it's claws to rip open it's stomach - not that i've ever tried it. i'm full of disgusting facts. pity your away i'll have to find something else to do like that massive pile of work on my desk. it's getting really interesting. and somebody has a crush. tut tut tut your on official business Legolas. till next chapter caz baz

Elena Tiriel · 22 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Great chapter, Daw! Legolas really rises to the occasion, I think. I'm glad this settlement leader isn't anything like Solith. Despite his not having expressed gratitude, he was appropriately courteous. Galivion as a character is behaving just exactly how I would want him to, were I Legolas (or the King, for that matter)... knowledgeable (though Legolas is doing fine so far), business-like, and supportive. And not afraid to confront Tinar when needed. Oh, and I sincerely hope that Galivion reports Tinar's insolence to his captain, if not the King. Surely insubordination is an offense deserving of beheading? ;-) Talking about a long-horn bull in a china shop... I think at some point, Legolas is going to have to give Tinar a direct order, and make it clear that disobedience or talk-back are not acceptable. At least Annael was also chosen to go along... Although I wonder whether my speculation above (about Legolas behaving more like a commander to Tinar) means that he wouldn't be able to relax with Annael, either? Thanks for updating before you leave, Daw, and hope your business trip goes well! - Barbara

Justafan · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Yay for another chapter! Ah, I think Legolas did a marvelous job as a sort of ambassador of goodwill for the king. I especially loved the part at the end when he attempts to get the elfing to eat the carrots and where he admires the pretty maiden. Perhaps some of Eilian is rubbing off on him :P

erunyauve · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Ugh - flooding has to be the worst of all disasters. I recall being quite grateful when I helped to pack up the remains of my brother's tornado-strewn house that everything was dry - one of their neighbors had already lost a house to flooding. I really liked Anyr's attitude toward the river - very Wood-Elven, I think. I think Legolas has made a bit of an enemy in Tinar - I don't think Tinar forgets easily, even though Galivion was perfectly right in telling him off. Just what Thranduil needs - two sons involved with maidens in the settlements. I *don't* think that was his intention in sending Legolas on this mission.

Lera · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Two new chapters so soon! How very wonderful of you. Have a good trip. I hope it's warm there. I was very excited to see Tinar. He's such a jerk but he makes for an interesting story. As long as it's not myself having to deal with an incredibly irritating person, it's quite amusing to watch someone else do so. Sorry Legolas. And what a true jerk Tinar's being. Is he trying to make Legolas's job a ton harder than it is? And was he really insinuating that the settlement elves were dangerous? And then to grumble about the chores. I'll bet the captain was able to spare him. And he's in the home guard. Hmm. How lucky for that little wife who needed lots of guidance. Whatever buddy. Legolas seems to be doing quite well so far I think. Yeah, Anyr a little thank you might have been nice! But I suppose when you're that far from the kingdom, you might have misconceptions about how the royal family lives. And in truth government does exist to serve the people. It was very very mature of Legolas to realize that. You're writing more politcs than you usually do. Are you trying to offset that wonderful love story you've got going on? lol. I'm enjoying Eilien and Celuwen's romance quite a bit, thank you very much. Much more so than I normally do in LotR fanfic. Maybe because we've known Eilien and Celuwen so long. They're real. They have lives. They're not just having a romance for the sake of having romance! Well, I guess they are, but...oh, never mind. I'm enjoying it! That line in the last chapter where Eilien tells Celuwen "I'd go to the ends of Arda for you." That was so sweet and wonderful and I spent a long time yesterday wondering "When will the person who will go to the end of Arda for me come into my life?" Sigh. Thanks for new updates. Be safe on your trip. What would your readers do if anything ever happened to you? Ciao and God bless.

Kristy · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Well, I must say Legolas is doing very well in his first diplomatic mission. I can't wait to see wht happens, will something derail him. Is the lovely Tuilinn Anyr's daughter, will Legolas say or do something amiss so that both the king's sons will have angry fathers on their hands? Or maybe something about trading with the Lake Men will cause friction. Hmmm No, business trips are bad. You should avoid them whenever possibe and use that time to write more of this wonderful story. :)

Hisie Lome · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

I loved the battle of the carrrots. All else is your standard fare, excellent and very written. Enjoy your trip.

Elemmire · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Thanks for another lovely chapter! Hope the trip goes well. :) Elemmire

ANA · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

A young lord indeed! Legolas was more lordly (does this word even exist?) than even Thranduil himself in this chapter. He has certainly come a long way from the elfling who was sneaking out of his room at nights and getting punished by his ada for it. You, oh, I mean Thranduil, have certainly raised him well. Great job! Now I guess I will have to hold my breath until your next post Have a good trip!