Reviews (406)

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

I am very proud of Legolas. He truly is the young lord in this chapter! Loved the change in apparel-it sounds very princely. Knowing that you put those words into the young lord's mouth, I think you might be able to switch careers and become a diplomat. Very well done! I think that Galivion is one of my favorite OC's that you have created. He gets the job done, is quick to offer praise when appropraite, and I adore the way he snatched Tinar over to the side for a "discussion" of the proper behavior towards a Thranduilion! Have a safe trip, enjoy some room service,and occupy yourself during boring meetings by daydreaming about our favorite elf family!

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

Oh, I *loved* this chapter! Legolas feeling like he'd slipped into the wrong position in line was priceless, but he handled it quite well. Anyr doesn't seem to be seeing the big picture at all, but at least he's not Solith. And you ARE evil, to send Tinar along with Annael and Legolas! But it made for a lot of amusement. The bits between Thranduil and Legolas were also sweet. And the part with the elf-maiden was quite cute. Indeed, Legolas, you've been hanging around with guys too long! There was one minor typo, which I only noticed on a second reading and which didn't take away from the story at all, but I thought you might like to know: " Moreover, the task that Thranduil had set for Legolas made it crucial for him to talk to talk to the settlement’s leader as soon as possible." You wrote "talk to" twice. And I'm highly amused at your apology that the chapter won't be updated so soon, considering that you update ten times faster than any other writer. Not that I'm complaining!

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

hi! that was an awesome chapter i love how Legolas is so responisble i thought it great how Tinar got told off by Galivion and how Legolas was so great with Rodien i would love to see more of Legolas at this settlement he really seems grown up here...i love it! thanks for writing...have fun in San Antonio bye!

Jay of Lasgalen · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

I was waiting on tenterhooks for some disaster to strike - the anticipation is terrible! But Princely!Legolas sounds wonderful - I love his outfit. I'm glad Annael is there, and the quartermaster elf is very helpful. That's more than can be said for Tinar - he has no idea that this is no longer a fellow warrior, but is now the King's son. I loved his *telling* Legolas to look after his horse on the way back! Do I sense love in the air? Legolas seems very taken with the maiden! Enjoy your trip, Daw, and we'll look forward to an update when you return.

Tapetum Lucidum · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Four chapters to read in 3 days. Now I am spoiled. Sorry, You can't go to San Antonio. The Alamo is not as important as Eilian and Celuwen. The Mexican food is great! I love that you had Legolas take some time to appear as The King's Son. I loved Jastaelf's The Scruff Factor and now find all of these elvish clothing customs very entertaining. Sounds like he is well appointed. Thranduil's good-bye to his youngest was very sweet and just what he needed to hear. If sending Annael was genius, including Tinar is orcish. At least he will add some excitement to the trip. The fact that Tinar thought Legolas wanted him to lead the group was hilarious. It brings back fond memories of songs sung about him in the north. I am glad Legolas did get some time with Annael. It is strange to see our youngling acting so adult. He does know his job well and handled himself with grace - in spite of the mud on his boots. I liked how you handled the first settlement elf's request to unload the food. It is much wiser to have the leader see it all together. Tinar added to the tension of the situation and subtly undermined Legolas - very clever. Thranduil will not be happy with the settlement's close association with the Lake-men. Unfortunately, his inability to provide them with everything they needed probably strengthened it. You are quite the diplomat! Legolas' little speach was smooth as silk. Even Amyr could not be affronted. Galivion's handling of Tinar was excellent. He needed a firm swat to his backside. The Prince's use of flattery (it will get you everywhere) came off sincerely and furthered his position. Playing with the kids is always a useful political strategy, though in his case I think it was more to impress Tuilinn. I guess he will enjoy his leave more than he imagined. Great job! Hope you enjoy your trip!

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

Ah, what is it about the two brothers and settlement elleths? Has Legolas found a girlfriend at last, or is it just a reaction to being on the Southern Patrol as he thinks? This chapter really showed some of the strengths of Legolas that you have been developing along. Legolas can give orders to others that are his peers and friends when he needs to, though I would have applied my boot to Tinar's backside to get the point across that this was a diplomatic mission and not a Sunday picnic. Legolas also managed to convey the information about the food stores without insulting the settlement leader and he definitely showed compassion and built trust when he refuses to take much of the stew to eat. It was funny though when he took the small child and tried to feed him the carrots. Is this like the mother who tries to feed the baby by pretending that the carrots are coming by the airplane spoon? You have also thrown in another kink with the settlement elves interacting with the settlement of men as they have been. It is great that they are helping one another, but I think Thranduil is going to have something to say about that. I wish it wasn't going to be so long between chapters this time, but I understand RL only too well and will anxiously await the next chapter. rikki

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

Gosh, daw, you outfoxed me on getting this one up before I reviewed the last one. Legolas did well with his assignment. These settlement Elves are a bit of a pain, I think. Anyr didn't seem to quite get it that Thranduil sent all he could without asking others in the realm to do without even more than they already were. I suppose Anyr thought the king had an endless supply...an underground buffet just waiting to feed them. I don't suppose it occurred to him that if they were having a rough winter then everyone else was, too. He's not related to Solith by any chance, is he? Though I will say, he was a bit more mannerable. So there's a cute little elleth hanging around the settlement? Hm.m.m. Legolas is right; he's been hanging around with warriors too long. He could use one of those sizzling kisses like Eilian got. If the settlement Elves are a dense lot, then Tinar is a reinforced brick wall. To be fair, the settlement Elves are probably not so much dense as they are isolated. Thranduil will be interested to hear how they have been doing business without concern for the other parts of the realm. But back to Tinar. What can I say?...he's Tinar. Sorry I missed the last chapter, but I'm always glad to see an update from you. Have a good and safe trip to the sunny south...I hope it'll be sunny for you. We'll look to the south, on the fifth morning, at dawn, for your return. :>) Good chapter! Karen

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

Oh, the addition of those little lines were perfect. Poor Legolas! He has been isolated among warriors, cold, hungry, influenced by shadow and worried for Eilian. Tuilinn sounds like the perfefct thing for him to focus his attention!

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

The son of the king indeed how proud Thranduil must have been and how well taught is his youngest son. A testimony to Thranduil's skills as a parent. I like Galivion he seems able to offer both support and praise without being obsequious. These settlement elves are very difficult to deal with it seems but there are compensations around to brighten the scenery! I wonder if someone tried that carrot trick on Legolas when he was younger and if it worked on him? Have a safe trip look forward to more when you return

French Pony · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 4: The Young Lord

Yeep! Another chapter! Lucky me! Whose boneheaded idea was it to send Tínar on a diplomatic mission? I am sure he's good for many things, but not diplomacy. But it was sure fun to watch him get his. Legolas did well. He's becoming an expert in the art of framing not-so-good news well, a skill he will surely need in the future. "Think of the children," is all anyone really needs to say, although mentioning the king's own short rations was a good touch. Makes people feel good if they know that royalty shares their hardship. Kind of like Queen Elizabeth saying she was glad that Buckingham palace had been bombed because she could look the East End in the face. Bubbles! I used to have a bubble frame like that. They're fun. Legolas is like Eilian in so many ways, perhaps he'll imitate big bro one more time and fall for a settlement gal.

French Pony · 21 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Sorry I'm so late. I went away for the weekend, to a wedding, and I just got back to find this chapter. It was a lovely wedding, and now that I think about it, the bride and groom are an awful lot like Celuwen and Eilian, except that their two families get along. Interesting thought about why the Silvan Elves have a Sindarin King, and the unwritten contract between ruler and ruled implicit in their relationship. And it is also interesting to see these glimpses of Legolas thinking of himself as Silvan -- he's the second-generation immigrant, the child of an immigrant, who calls himself a native. I am of the Old Country; my child is an American. It must make it difficult for Thranduil to understand his kids sometimes. Eilian seems to have his head screwed on right for the time being. Good thought with the rabbits. One day Sólith will realize that there comes a time when all children must tell their parents to shove it, and Celuwen is fast approaching that time.

hisielome · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

More responsibilities for Legolas and finaly the chance of happiness for Eilian. This family is just so much fun.

Erendis · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Well, I don't usually review stories by chapter but at the end of them, however this chapter inspired me to do so! I really liked how you combined the 'serious' part of Legolas' diplomatic mission with the romance of Eilian&Celuwen's love story. Legolas is clearly on his way to become his father's ambassador to Imladris a few years from now, and it'll be definitely interesting to see him through this mission (which, I'm sure, won't go as smoothly as planned). Accepting that his leave wasn't as important as the settlers' needs is a big step forward down this path. Can't wait to see exactly how smooth will it be. ;) Now, praise Daw with great praise! Eilian and Celuwen's reunion and subsequent moments together are definitely praise worthy. Of course she thought he wouldn't come! I'm trying hard not to hate Solith because I know and understand his reasons for acting as he did, but still it tickles me that he decided that his daughter couldn't handle the situation by herself. I loved it when Celuwen simply puts her hand on Eilian's arm and everything else seems to vanish from the room for them; that's exactly how it feels when you're in love. I only wish things would be more simple for them, but I don't see how that can be. They have a a hard road ahead before they can make it all work out, don't they? And Solith will be a rather large 'obstacle'. *looks back* Ok, can you tell I really liked this chapter? I can't really ask you to update faster, because you already do it and beyond my wildest expectations. Keep at it, Daw! You have a few of us quite hooked.

Tapetum Lucidum · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Wow another update! I guess Nilmandra thought it was ready too. I loved the meeting in Thranduil's office. You put Legolas on quite the emotional roller coaster. His initial dismay was very apprpriate. I had forgotten that he didn't know the reason he was personally selected for this mission. He must have felt very frustrated to have his leave interrupted, then proud his father trusted him with the mission. His intelligent assessment and inquiry must have relieved his father's advisors. They seem apprehensive about his new appointment. Sending Legolas to supervise the food preparation was a great idea - it is always smart to be well informed. Special thanks to Ithilden for sending Annael. It was very thoughtful. Eilian showed remarkable restraint in not riding pell mell to Celuwen's cottage. I was happy to see him think over his father's words before his arrival. His initial greeting with Solith was very tense - nice job. It seems that Isiwen is going to have her work cut out for her as a mediator. Celuwen and Eilian's greeting was worth waiting for. I really liked how the two of them exchanged glances in the presence of her glowering father. What father on Arda thinks any male is good enough for his beloved daughter. It was very realistic! Eilian's flashback to a sad little Legolas was very sweet. It must have scared him to death to realize just how much Celuwen cared for him. Their good night kiss and joy over their time together was heartwarming. I am hope they will have some happy time together and that Solith softens up a little. Now, what was it that ached for her? (evil grin!)

Dot · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

This is absolutely fascinating! I really thought the part with Legolas being informed of his mission was so interesting. I had to laugh at the way he thought at first that he was being sent merely to deliver food, and then Thranduil suddenly realising why his son was so bewildered! I loved that Thranduil obviously feels great pride in his son when he reacts not by questioning his assignment but by expressing a willingness to serve, despite the fact that he should be on leave. Thrior’s little history lesson was completely engrossing. I liked seeing Legolas’ behaviour – he is willing to listen but still remains quite formal and lets Thrior know that he is more than aware of the great history of his family, he is a part of it: “The House of Oropher rules with the consent of the realm’s people.” I hadn’t really thought much about the situation with the settlers before, but of course they really would be a threat if they gained many more followers. It’s kind of amusing that Legolas had just presumed that the tension was because “Sólith hated Eilian”. If that were the case Thranduil would have put a stop to such nonsense long ago. “You will express my deepest concern for these Elves and let them know how close they are to my heart.” Such, um, diplomacy! I’m really intrigued to know how Legolas will fare. No doubt it will be a lot tougher than he thinks. Still, it should provide good training for diplomatic missions – like maybe a certain Council that might take place one day… Did Eilian really turn up at their door with rabbit carcasses?? Obviously it is a great gift in such lean times but it just struck me as a strange image! I felt so good for Eilian when he was able to tell Sólith that he had been invited! I like his wife. She seemed to know immediately what Eilian’s presence would mean for each member of her family but she seems determined to just make the best of the situation. She seems to have a certain amount of influence too when it comes to her husband. I wonder did she lecture him just a little when they left their daughter outside with Eilian. That moment when Eilian and Celuwen are reunited was so moving. There’s such a feeling of desperation in both of them. I really loved the way you showed the huge attraction between them, the little touches and glances, the way Eilian seems to almost forget the presence of her parents every time Celuwen looks at him. My heart nearly stopped that moment when Eilian realises that Celuwen is fading from grief. I can’t even imagine what it would do to him if that happened. It was so interesting to see Eilian’s thought process, the realisation first that she is unwell and then that just maybe it is his presence that is helping her. Still, I don’t know how he can ever turn around and leave her now, knowing what it would do to her. I really can’t wait to see what happens between them. Crikey, imagine if he decided not to go back south. Still, if he doesn’t look after his hip a bit better he might be around for a while yet. Not that I’d want him to be in pain or anything… “I think I will camp outside,” he finally managed. Everyone in the room let out simultaneous sighs of relief.” LOL! You did such a great job at creating the tension in the room. I love the way they each know that the atmosphere is strained but are all barely clinging onto a sense of propriety. I doubt it would take much for that crumble, though. Sólith is plainly on edge. I’m so tempted to hate him but I think that in this chapter we can’t help but see that he is also a father who clearly loves his daughter. He might not realise that he contributed towards her grief by hiding the letters and keeping the two apart but he surely can’t help seeing how Eilian’s mere presence and the thought that he loves her has given her so much hope. He seems to be realising that even though she might succumb to grief should anything happen him, being parted from him without hope means nothing but pain and a slow passing into grief for her. I don’t know, I guess I’ll just have to wait and see;)

Nilmandra · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

I love Celuwen. You already know all my favorite parts, esp the line about Legolas nearly fading as a little elfling. Celuwen is great in this chapter - Eilian can have no doubt of her love. Um....now I *really* want to see my other little thought in chapter format soon. *grin*

Estel_Mi_Olor · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Another great chapter! Was Celuwen grieving for Eilian? It does not seem possible, what with their previous history and all. Interesting...now I can't wait to find out what it is. It couldn't have been Eilian, I mean her parents would have invited him to visit if it really would help their daughter. I wish Legolas much luck, and he will need all the luck in the world, if he is to be dealing with a settlement full of Sóliths. Good thing Annael is going with him. Keep writing!

LOTRFaith · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Am happy to see Celuwen and Eilian together. I think Sólith is finally starting to realise that though he can do quite a bit to keep the two apart they keep managing to find each other. :-) I hope Legolas doesn't run into any trouble with the settlement. Poor hungry elves... Namaarie~

Jay of Lasgalen · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Poor Legolas was a bit fed up at first to miss his leave, but I'm glad he realises the trust Thranduil places in him. How nice of Ithilden to send Annael as well - he's being a kind older brother here I think, he'd not do it for just any warrior. The reunion between Eilian and Celuwen was lovely - they so clearly love one another, but I still wonder if they will ever work out all their differences and bond. What disasters do you have planned for Legolas next chapter? Jay

erunyauve · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Eilian might have an ally in Celuwen's mother if she realizes that her daughter's unhappiness is caused by her quarrel with him. On the other hand, it might just make her stubborn father more difficult to appease. Still, I rather like the idea of Eilian and Solith cooped up in that small space for five days - it will give Eilian plenty of opportunity to learn to deal with his future (hopefully) father-in-law.

mistry89 · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

It seems that Thranduil really is ready to give Leglas some responsibility, and that Legolas is aware of the import of it - despite regreting the loss of his leave! The title of the chapter ties in beautifully to Legolas's mission and to Eilian's self-appointed task. Both will need to tread a fine line, it seems :) Siloth is clearly an elf with a problem - to allow Celuwen to feel enough despair to show signs of fading, demonstrates that he does indeed have "issues" with Eilian (not just personal, but about the realm too? Although it is hard to imagine a ruler-in-preference, or none at all, and hard to imagine that he (Siloth) can continue in ignorance of the threat they all face ... and I don't mean the winter!) Awaiting for events to unfold, but enjoying the build-up (if that makes sense?). Thank you.

Kristy · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

I have just finished reading pretty much everything you have written. (I just found this site) I love your work. I cna't waie for more of this story! Eilian and Celuwen have really captured my heart. I love reading about them and hope you'll write lots about them in this story. I of course also love Legolas. It's wonderful to see how he continues to grow up in each story. In short, Thank you for feeding my LOTR addiction with good fic. Please continue to do so. Kristy

Jebb · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

So Eilian is finally re-united with Celuwyn and although they are happy I don't like the fury that you can feel radiating out of her father that bodes ill I fear. And Legolas having to give up his hard earned leave even if he does get Adar's seal of approval for the way he took the news and good kind Ithilden arranging for a friend to go with him what a lovely brother I think both brothers are in for a rough ride in the settlements one way or the other thank you for such lovely story telling

naneth · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Legolas is already showing great wisdom as he begins his new profession as diplomat. I hope all goes well for him as he "tries his wings" in a new role as diplomat, negotiator, and being so officially the King's son. Oh wait, this is a story by Daw, of course it won't go smoothly! Eilian and Celuwen, ah, "young" love!

Dragon-of-the-North · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Oh, this was beautiful and a very good chapter! LOL - it seems there are two very different sorts of diplomacy needed here, but, hmm... both, if completed successfully, could have the same effect in the very end. ;-) If Eilian really married Celuwen, i.e.: a girl from one of those settlements that are so difficult to control, that would, perhaps, strengthen the bonds between the royal family and those suspicious Silvans a bit more (hmmm - who says that there cannot be any marriages of political value among elves? ;-))! Good luck to Legolas in his mission - but I believe his is the easier task this time. True enough, the responsibility is great, and he has never acted as a diplomat before, but a demanding official task is still less hard to tackle than a very touchy personal matter... My sympathies for Eilian! ;-) Eilian's visit to Celuwen & family is an interesting study indeed - I am especially intrigued by Solith. I thought it very telling that he relaxed when his daughter stated that she was glad and happy to see Eilian. Perhaps he is not just the classic "evil ada who does not like his daughter's lover" who "hates Eilian", as Legolas assumes; I am rather under the impression that he realizes very well what this mildly disastrous relationship does to Celuwen (small wonder the poor girl is almost fading with grief!) and only has the wrong strategy of dealing with the problem, being hostile to Eilian in the hope that she will simply forget him one day... Hmm... And then, there is this "Southern Patrol" problem! You have emphasized once again in this story that Eilian believes that this is the only place where he can serve the realm and wants to do so... Shall I be very wicked now and hope that his leg will become inflamed and so crippled for a long time that he *has* to be sensible for once and can settle down a bit and produce two or three Mini-Eilians with Celuwen who can do his job later? ;-) Oh, and my favourite sentence of the whole chapter: “We are not worried about sitting in a tiny box of a room with Sólith without drawing our dagger, are we?” That made me chuckle quite a bit. ;-) Awesome job once again! :-)