Reviews (406)

naneth · 17 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Poor Legolas! I feel so sorry for the tired warrior. Now he can't even sleep in his soft bed while on leave. And Beliond is in the woods, so who's going to watch out for our favorite youngest Thranduilion? You have made a difficult time for the Mirkwood elves very believable by including so many small details related to their rationing and difficulties procuring food. It sounds as though Legolas may be heading towards danger...and we're heading towards another exciting, wonderful story!

Portia · 17 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

And I forgot to add that it's creepy seeing Annael with a full-grown forester of a daughter. I'm used to seeing your Legolas as a kid and it's weird seeing someone in his generation as a father. I guess that's a reminder that our favorite wood-elf is indeed grown-up.

Justafan · 17 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Oh, how lovely! I liked how Legolas stood up for his brother going to see Celuwen, even though he couldn't lie to his father about Eilian's injury. Poor Legolas, having to give up his leave. And how hard the decision must have been for Thranduil! It is his duty though, as royalty. Thanks so much for writing this story; I'm enjoying all of it immensely.

Portia · 17 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Aww, poor Legolas. No more vacation. I like how you have Thranduil dealing with the settlers by sending them his son to show that he's taking them seriously. I suspect that was probably the reason he sent Legolas to Rivendell, too--showing that the escape of Gollum was not due to willful neglect or anything. People so often fail to understand that, and think that Thranduil is a mean daddy who degrades his son to the level of an errand boy. Your Thranduil is of course lovable, if a bit aggravating. Eilian's wound is, of course, more serious than he's pretending. Is that going to come back to bite him? Once again, your Thranduil is wonderfully real in the way he deals with Eilian and his stormy love life. (Celuwen seems a bit ornery and stubborn--how will she get along with Thranduil? I'm not sure I'd like being the Elvenking's daughter-in-law!) And now I wonder how Legolas is going to deal with those settlers. Is he going to be riding with Eilian? I hope so--I love how those two interact. It will be nice to see Legolas do diplomatic stuff. I guess he had to have done some stuff like that in Mirkwood, since he responds pretty coolly to Aragorn's accusing tone manages to wangle Gimli's entrance into Lorien in FotR.

Estel_Mi_Olor · 16 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Another story!!! Cheers! Thank you for the setting on this one, I was dying to know what Celuwen's letter said. I'm glad to see Eilian has recovered and the Long Winter finally over. And everyone is reunited again! I trust we will see a Thranduil-Legolas moment soon. Poor Thranduil. I hope someday Eilian and Celuwen bond, because they really are meant for eachother. Although, this is a good beginning. I noticed a typo though: "Eilian shifted impatiently. He had arrived at the infirmary early this morning only to find that Belówen was busy with an elfling who had broken his wrist, and he was going to have to wait. How much longer was the wretched healer going to be with the inconsiderate elfling? Unable to resist, he took a tattered letter from belt and began to read, although, in truth, he had read the letter so often that he had it memorized and did not need it before him to know what it said." In the fifth line of the above paragraph you have "tattered letter from belt," well shouldn't it be "his belt"? Just checking. Keep writing!!!

sofia · 16 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

I never really understood the seriousness of Eilian's injury. But now I do, and Im glad he's still alive... these stories wouldnt be the same without him! So does this mean that he and Celuwen are getting closer to marrying each other? Really good story. Hope next chapter's up soon! -sofia

Kay · 16 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

I am so happy to see this new story, daw, and it came with a special treat -the contents of a certain letter. Thanks! I wonder if Celuwen's father has any idea about the grief he has caused his daughter. He has much to answer for. I enjoyed the dinner scene. This was great: "And if they wanted to tease him, that was all the better, so long as Legolas ate the fish and Eilian obeyed every stricture the healers set for him." I do love your Thranduil! I look forward to more!

Lera · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Ahh...spring. Ahh...a new story by Daw the Minstrel. I'm so happy. It's cool that you started where you left off from Sacrifice Under Shadow. When Legolas decided he didn't blame Beliond for not wanting to upset Thranduil, I couldn't help but remember when they first met and how much Legolas resented Beliond's very presence. I think Legolas's change in attitude shows his maturity. That baby throwing snowballs is very much a grown up! And then off Beliond goes to the woods. Are we ever going to hear his story? Someday maybe? Eilien, I'm sure you're more interesting to look at than a brick wall! You know, I knew he was hurt(obviously a poisoned orc arrow is bad) but I was surprised he was still home recuperating. Like it actually comes time for Legolas to come on leave and Eilien's still home. I'm happy for Thranduil. He's obviously so happy to have all his boys at home. And all his sons are very lucky that they have this kind of home to always come home to. Thranduil is such a good ada. You know, after reading your Thranduil, I cannot read evil, mean, dispasionate Thranduil stories no matter how good the author. I laughed about Legolas being so excited about a warm bath. I'm about to go take a hot shower and am really looking forward to it after a working three hours at a barn. I can't imagine going as long as he has(three months?) without really bathing. I imagine the winter must have made bathing even more dificult if not impossible while you're living outside. Speaking of which, this winter was really bad, wasn't it? So often you read about kingdoms where when food is scarce, the royal family at least still has plenty of food, even though it's often at the expense of the peasants. But I get the feeling the Thranduilions aren't doing that. Irritating settlement. It was amusing hearing Thranduil's thoughts about them. I have to sympathize with him. And yet, I really like Celuwen. If she thinks living where she does is so important then it must be. I can't help but wonder about those family dinners(after she and Eilien are married because eventually they WILL be, right?) with her and Thranduil at the same table. Maybe living in the same house all the time. Where would she live, if Eilien's away? But anyway things could get interesting, especially if her family visits. What a sweet letter. So sincer and personal. I love Celuwen. Bad ada! Bad ada! Intercepting letters. I wonder how she got hers sent out. I suppose it would be easier to send a letter. Well, can't wait for the next chapter as always. Ciao and God bless.

ANA · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

How wonderful, a new story from you! And the title is so appropriate as spring is getting near (I hope). Your summary made me laugh - love and disaster - yes, describes Eilian's situation perfectly, unless you decide to be kinder to him in writing about his love life. Can't wait for more!

Dot · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Yay! I was wondering what you’d have in store for us next, and I’m so glad you’ve decided to continue “Sacrifice under Shadow”. First off, I just want to say that I loved your beautiful use of language in this chapter. You created such a wonderful sense of the land beginning to awaken after a long, tough winter and of how it brings with it a sense of newness, of a freshness that the elves revel in. It really made me long for those lovely, bright days when the sun has a warmth in it again and you just know that the dark, wet, cold days have been left behind for a long while. Then I remembered I live in Ireland and our warm weather is likely to be a Tuesday afternoon at about three o’clock sometime in August… Ah well. Beliond accompanied him almost to the door? It looks as though after the last, um, incident he isn’t about to let his charge out of his sight very easily! I actually really like the idea of Beliond spending his time in the forest, amongst the trees, sleeping under the stars. At first I thought it was quite a lonely picture but I think it actually gives him a lot of depth as a character and shows that there is more emotion to him than one might think at first. Of course, it would be quite funny if it turned out that he wasn’t actually going camping at all but had some secret life going on….*slaps wrist for fantasizing about poor Beliond* All of the reunions were so heart-warming. I’m glad Eilian recognised and thanked Legolas for what he did, and I love the way he did so in such a brotherly fashion, both of them knowing he meant it but yet the moment was never allowed to be too awkward. And I do love Thranduil being Ada! I even had a lump in my throat when he gave him his fish! I do like that you ensured that we see them also suffering the effects of the harsh winter, that the king and his family are not well-fed while their people starve but rather must accept that things are not as plentiful as before. I have to smile when I see Thranduil so pleased to have his family together. It’s wonderful to see them laughing together and he clearly delights in it if he allows them to tease him! I imagine nothing brings him greater joy than to have them all together, with none of them in danger, pain or despair. Aha! I suspected Sólith was intercepting those letters. Celuwen’s letter was beautifully written, by the way. And she seems to have finally given into her true feelings! That certainly explains Eilian’s happiness. She expressed herself very eloquently. I can completely see how she struggled and the reasons why she tried to convince herself that they should not be together. I just hope that Eilian’s illness hasn’t meant valuable time wasted. But then, surely even those pesky settlers would have heard that the king’s son was so ill… Oh, I meant to say that Htranduil’s comment earlier about the settlers was brilliant – he really summed them up perfectly, with just the right amount of sarcasm! LOL at the “inconsiderate elfling” remark! I had to laugh too at Belówen’s bewilderment at Eilian’s lack of insistence to go back on patrol. If only he knew why Eilian wanted to be at home a bit longer… I have to say, he actually seemed a little disappointed that they didn’t have their usual argument;) “Then we had better find out if you are.” I’m so glad Eilian has Legolas there. His baby brother seems to be taking his role as protector very seriously, doesn’t he? Or maybe he has just come to realise that when Eilian’s mind is set on something else, he never takes sufficient care of himself. But things seem to finally be going well for him, I’d hate to see him mess it up. Although, someone is bound to, I suppose… You’ve really brightened up my day by posting this new story – thanks, daw!:)

Justafan · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Yay, I'm so glad that you wrote another story! How like Celuwen's father to keep the letters from her. I confess that I had thought that Celuwen did it, but her sweet letter explained it all. I loved this beginning and can't wait to read more!

tigerlily713 · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Great chapter of a great new story! I am so happy to see more of this wonderful saga you have created. The characters you have developed are so consistant and brilliant. I eagerly await more!

White Wolf · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

It's great to see Eilian on his feet again. Thranduil must be thrilled to death to have all three of his sons together, and the two youngest safe, for a while at least. Glad to see the letter from Celuwen. I hope I hear distant wedding bells ringing!

meckinock · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

I have to say that as much as I loved this chapter, I'm almost more intrigued by your tantalizing review replies...I am perilously close to imagining what shenanigans the brothers Thranduilion are about to get themselves into. May we see the King of Mirkwood in his full wrath before this is over?

caz-baz · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

that's great! i couldn't stop smiling. i'm really sore i went hunting on satuday and we really went for it we had the best hounds in the north of england out with us, maybe even the best hounds in the country. i can just see them both galloping along now i wish i was an elf then i wouldn't be this sore.

Jebb · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Oh this has really made my day a new story and Eilian and Legolas at home under Adar's watchful gaze. I loved that Thrnaduil did not mind the teasing as long as everyone did as he wanted! But somehow I get the feeling sons doing as he wants is not going to last too long. I see trouble ahead. It is the detail that makes these stories so wonderful the fact that even the royal family are being careful with food, Beliond seeing Legolas to the door, Adar knowing what is happening even behind his back! How does he do that? Simply lovely thank you for your great story telling

Lyn · 15 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Truly, your stories are wonderful. I especially like the current ones with Legolas, Eilian, and Ithilden. It is a pleasure. Many writers have skill, but too many include a surfeit of torture that is endless or incomprehensible sex or motives in their stories. Just wanted to let you know how much you are appreciated! Hoping to read more in the future....

mistry89 · 14 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Lovely to see a message alert about a new chapter from you! I'm totally disgusted with Celuwen's father (whose name I have obviously consigned to the "don't care to recall basket, as you are an irritating character!") and not surprised at his (supposed) behaviour. You have to wonder whether Eilian should be considering a merger with the offspring of such a stubborn, stupid (can't see Eilian's obvious superiority to any other possible suitor) elf. Ha! The interaction between the generations is lovely, Thranduil at his most contented: "And if they wanted to tease him, that was all the better, so long as Legolas ate the fish and Eilian obeyed every stricture the healers set for him." Any possibility of foul play involved? "the longest winter in memory had still had the Woodland Realm in its grip." That calls for : "and that's a long time isn't it, precious" in silly-smeagol voice! That even the King and the royal household is on short rations indicates a harsh winter indeed, presumably things will be difficult in the outer settlements too, perhaps Eilian will prove useful ..... (will Legolas accompany him, given Maltanaur's absence?) And last (and best) "Trust the brat to take his responsibility seriously, he thought in dismay." Legolas' maturity is evident - although it seems his family may still see him as more elfing than warrior! Thank you, a nice opportunity to see them (relatively - pun not intended - at ease). Blerk! I've just seen a review where you may give Legolas a (romantic) partner! But what about canon? What about ...? Sorry :), I'm one of the "not all the characters in LOTR get a "traditional" partner" people. Legolas has the woods, and then the call of the West. The sailing with Gimli, and all eternity gets fouled up ... sorry, I have always been less inclined to see so much marriage and child-rearing amongst the elves - they had so many things to love, that the joy they took in those things (trees, songs, stars, etc) was as strong as a romantic love and heirs and the succession mean so much less when you have until the end of the world to live - although elfings are cute! I won't "hate her" as you suggest, but it seems enormously ooc to me (and he's got precious little time to act on it, what with WOTR and setting up the new forest, seeing the Glittering Caves and Fangorn with Gimli) ... I'll shutup now, and of course I'll read anything you write. But ... Thanks for a great story, I still wonder about the severity of the winter and dark times "are" drawing closer ... coincidence or .......?

French Pony · 14 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Before we go any farther with this, I have to know: Are you familiar with 19th-Century German playwrights? Specifically, do you know Frank Wedekind's play "Spring Awakening?" Your title, of course, made me think of it. It's about teenage love, lust and tragedy, and my college gave it a rather memorable staging my junior year, the same year I read it in German class. I have high hopes for this story being about more sensible heads than those inhabiting Wedekind's play, so as long as no one turns up pregnant but thinking they've got dropsy because they have no idea what causes pregnancy, we're good to go. First comes winter, then comes spring, and everyone's home. I can just see the beatific glow on Thranduil's face as he welcomes his last family member back into the nest. It's nice to know that no matter how much of a warrior Legolas becomes, he always has that place where he can go and be a kid again. And Thranduil will always and forever be a father (except for those moments when he becomes a Jewish mother), providing a watchful eye and an extra piece of fish. I love the idea of Eilian and Legolas having their own private family saying, the more so since you've just told us where it comes from. Private family sayings are such great jokes. My family has one that comes from none other than Al Capone. And so the Romance of Eilian and Celuwen continues. Their follies are fun, and I have to say that I almost don't want them to get together, because they're so much fun when they're apart. On the other hand, how much more fun might they be as a married couple? Ah well, either time or daw the minstrel will tell.

The Karenator · 14 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

What is this? A herald has just arrived at the gates bearing news. MY name has been taken in vain? The villagers are amassing again. I smell hot tar! What does that banner held aloft by yon peasants say?....'Henceforth, the only job the minstrel will be able to get is holding a sign outside of Chucky's Chicken Coop # 2'! It is a big banner. Lots of words.... Now, where is that sweet adorable child? I know she needs me to console her....

Any · 14 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Yippie!!! :) A new story - finally!!! *makes little dance* *grin* So, this is the one in which Eilian and Celuwen will finally sort things out?!? :)) I'd be soooo glad if they'd do! Hopefully Celuwen hasn't despaired in the meantime coz she hasn't heard anything from Eilian since she'd sent him her letter. O.o Oh my, I hope she didn't get that wrong! *argh* And Legolas is going to be Eilian's babysitter this time? Mhmmm, that's good! I like it when they talk and when they fight side by side and surely they'll stumble in loadz of trouble on their trip, eh? ;) I'm really looking forward to the rest of this story! As always. ~Any

LOTRFaith · 14 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Yay! Yet another story, what's this? Like story # 3 or 4 since I started posting mine? lol... But anyway... Glad to see Eilian doing better and Celuwen! Am very happy about that:-) And Legolas is home and hopefully will be resting;-) Great chapter and look forward to more.. Namaarie~

rikki · 14 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Aw, spring time in the air, the smell of new grass, flowers blooming and the sunshine coming out after the long winter and love is in the air. It is nice to have the entire family home again and in pretty healthy at that. Your last story with Eilian going home on the litter was scary and you mention here that he almost didn't make it. Though he isn't a 100% well, it is good to see that he is beginning to get antsy, and showing signs of boredom - good pointers to him getting back to normal. It was funny how Eilian got the healer to say that he wasn't well enough to go back to fighting so he would be free a little longer. But for Legolas to test his healing by galloping, aie!, that younger brother does not realize just how bad the wound still looks. I am glad to see that you are finally telling Eilian's and Celuwen's story. Though I figure with the floods, Eilian's still healing wound and her ada the going is not going to be smooth. But I am glad that Celuwen is recognizing that rejecting and ignoring love is not going to make it go away. At one time perhaps they would have had problems bonding - Eilian has never been the most patient of elves and the danger he loves to get into! But in other ways he is the most faithful and true to anyone that he loves. Hopefully *mother hen* Thranduil will let him out of the house and go to the settlement. Or is Legolas going to sneak him out of the palace? Loving this beginning and ready for the next chapter as soon as you can type it. Laughing, I am an impatient bunny.

Fadesintothewest · 14 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Oh my I knew it. I knew that Celuwen wasn't getting the letters Eilian sent to her. Always a wrong move for a parent to do, makes the kid very angry with him or her. I look forward to seeing where this story takes Eilian and maybe even Legolas in the realm of love? Will there be anyone for Legolas? I hope so.

Portia · 14 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

Yay! Another story that looks enjoyable. I'm glad that Celuwen and Eilian seem to be on the verge of making it up--though I hadn't thought Celuwen's father was mean enough to stop her letters. I also liked Thranduil nagging Legolas to eat more fish. The Elvenking is adorable, though he'd probably come after me with a knife if he heard me say that. You write wood-elves so much better than any other fanfic author I've read. Most of the others seem to make Mirkwood's culture either too royal and grand--sort of like Rivendell or Lorien--or they go to the opposite extreme and make it sleazy. But your Mirkwood culture is refreshingly natural and has a simple dignity that fits perfectly with what little we hear of Mirkwood elves in canon.