Reviews (239)

Manderly · 16 May 2004 · Chapter 7: In the Infirmary

There was such a mix of emotions in this chapter. I really didn't know whether I should have been laughing or crying while reading it - probably both. Poor Legolas! So traumatized by all that's happened and poor Thranduil, caught between worries for his two sons and trying so hard to be tend to both of them at once. Then there's Ithilden, trying to deal with the sickness from the spider venom and nightmares, worrying about his little brother, and the ecstasy/agony of having Alfirin tending to him. Must be major blow to his commander/warrior ego to have so little control over everything. I think the entire family is ready for the trauma unit. A really wonderful chapter!

Jay of Lasgalen · 16 May 2004 · Chapter 7: In the Infirmary

*snort* Poor Ithilden, how humiliating! I had a feeling that he would meet Alfirin again in the infirmary, and that he would probably be in some embarrassing condition. It really must be love if they can face each other after this. Thranduil was wonderful, as always, so torn between the need to be with both sons. Where is Eilian during all this? And poor would-be-grown-up Legolas, so scared and so guilty. A great chapter, Daw. Jay

nessie · 16 May 2004 · Chapter 7: In the Infirmary

Oops! I accidently sent in a blank review...Sorry about that. But anyways, this chapter was very touching. I loved how you put Alfirin in here to help take care of him. And poor Legolas, he's so gosh darn guilty! And poor both Thranduilions, they're both having nightmares! But I just love Thranduil in this, he's such a great father. He stays with them both, and comforts them both. That is what any good father should do. Loved this chapter, update asap~ ~nessie~

LKK · 16 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

Ithilden sighed. He had not even asked what Legolas was doing so far away from him. It had just seemed natural to find that his little brother had wandered. He wondered now if he could have prevented it. I think that those sentences are very telling. Legolas may have the impulsiveness that any child his age would have, but he is also very level-headed for a child his age. If Ithilden had explained about the spiders, Legolas might have thought twice before going after the big deer. Or perhaps not. But by trying to keep Leolgas from harm, Ithilden mislead his brother into thinking that there was no real danger at all. When there actually was. I could tell Ithilden learned a lot from this little realization by how he handled Legolas' suggestion about traveling in the trees. I think Legolas did a fine job in helping Ithilden and returning with help. Although I doubt Thranduil will allow it -- he always likes to hear the full story -- I hope Ithilden will keep Legolas' original bad behavior quiet. I think the young elf has learned his lesson and doesn't need to have it pounded into him any more by an irate father. Good chapter, daw! LKK

Estel_Mi_Olor · 16 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

That was fantastic, Daw! What a gripping chapter! I was absolutely terrified for Ithilden. You can not imagine my relief when Legolas ran into Thranduil. I do believe I cheered aloud. Legolas deserves much applause! Why, he even remembered his training for running such a distance. No wonder he grew up to be such a good warrior. I never thought it would take a very injured Ithilden and one terrified Legolas for Thranduil to let Legolas grow up a little. Interesting the way things work out, isn't it? I daresay the King's return will cause quite an uproar at the palace. I can't wait to read all about it! Keep writing! Cheers.

The Karenator · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

What a relief! Ada certainly showed up at the right time. I can only imagine how difficult it was for Thranduil to stay calm enough to even get to Ithilden. It's funny how when in such a situation something from somewhere, seems to take over and let us function. No matter how well trained a warrior is (or a doctor, for that matter) the thought of your child being hurt or endangered sends all reason out the door and we operate on automatic pilot. I imagine Thranduil will not sleep well for a while. I felt for poor Ithilden as he sunk slowly into the abyss of uncontrollable physical reaction. It's tough enough for anyone to lose control, but for Ithilden it must have been his worst nightmare. Despite it all, he did well with the instructions he gave Legolas. And Legolas did what he had to do. He was scared half to death, but he kept his wits and went for help on his own. It was a hard lesson, but now that he has first hand knowledge of the dangers of the forest, I don't think Thranduil will have as much trouble with making him understand why he and his little buddies can't be roaming around after dark--at least for a while. I'll be glad to see everyone safely at home and Ithilden under the care of the healers (and her daughter?) I'm certain Alfrin will want to do whatever she can to help...just as a professional courtesy, of course. Well done, your minstrelship, Karen

Tapetum Lucidum · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

When Ithilden stated Legolas would have to help him get back to camp, Legolas response was "How?", not "No, I can't." That is the brave, young warrior we all know and love. Using a crutch was the logical move. Legolas was overjoyed at being able to help his beloved brother. His relief was palpable. Ithilden's strength and determination was great. He was not giving up on himself or Legolas. "Sometimes people in the infirmary threw up too." was a great comfort line from a kid. LOL! It was good to have an apology for wandering off and for them to clear the air between them. If Legolas had known about the spiders, hopefully he would have stayed a little closer. Most likely he would have wandered off looking for them but one can always hope. The decision to split up was hard on both of them but it was the only choice. They were each worried about the other which was very sweet. Ithilden's stammered conversation was quite worrisome but at least he kept the youngling out of the trees. The little flashback of Nana was sweet - poor Legolas really needs her sometimes. Legolas' determination on his run home was very clear. Nothing would stop him from saving his brother. Thank goodness his Adar listens to his feelings. Thranduil was a tower of strength and calm - just what an hysterical kid needs. Which son to comfort? That is quite a dilemma. You were very mean to poor Thranduil. I think his initial choice was the right one. Take care of the kid who will be aware that you are doing it. Ithilden wouldn't have known if a dragon took him back to the palace but Legolas is in dire need of some TLC. Legolas once again showed his inner strength by putting Ithilden in the best hands (or on the best horse) so he could get home a little faster. I am as proud of him as Thranduil. It is going to be a long trip home. I am looking forward to some conversation with heartfelt apologies from both sides. Neither brother was perfect on this little trip from Morgoth!

Tapetum Lucidum · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 5: A Brother's Help

Having Legolas review the actions of the previous day was a good way to start the chapter. Hearing his feelings on the matter was an entertaining perspective. You can think like a 12 year old. He and Eilian probably would have had more fun but it seems he need the bonding time with Ithilden. His apology over his words, not his actions was very age appropriate. I noticed that Ithilden pointed out "disappearing up a tree" as his indiscretion - not disappearing from sight. Legolas seemed to focus on the tree climbing aspect this morning. Does that account for his actions later? Waybread makes a much better breakfast than fish. I wonder if Legolas had already shot a deer like his friends would he want to return home rather than stay in the forest? Uh oh, they want to hunt in the meadow... Poor Bambi! Following the tracks doesn't sound too disobedient - what could happen? Seeing those spiders for the first time must have been scary. You captured his jaded pre-teen perspective and fear very well. It would take him a minute to find his voice after being so terrified. I would not want to leave brave Ithilden's side either. There might be more of them. Ithilden acted as a true warrior of the realm - anxious to protect both his home and his baby brother. It was extremely brave of Legolas to run and get the antidote. Yes, it was stupid to take it out of the pack in the first place but it was not meant to cause any harm. I loved how Legolas spoke to himself in Thranduil's voice to calm down. He has done that before. Ithilden's internal debate was very in keeping with his calm, rational character. Every decision is well thought out and carefully planned. It must have been an extremely hard one to make. I liked how Legolas returned just in time to save his brother. You subtley emphasized his archery skill as well as his seriousness about Warrior Training. It was a very good scene. Even when Ithilden is miserable, his first concern is his youngest brother. It is very sweet. At least he finally came to his senses about treating the youngest child like a kid, not a warrior.

Tapetum Lucidum · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 4: Ups and Downs

Sorry, I haven't been able to type this week thanks to a collie that apparently had a very sore leg. Early morning fishing sounded like a lot of fun but fish for breakfast? I don't think my stomach would be happy at all. I think Ithilden is going to hear many things that Annael's adar has shown his little brother. Unfortunately his father has not had the time. It was good for Ithilden to give Legolas some of the responsibility for camp chores and breakfast but he would have had a much happier companion if he would ask kindly rather than order him. It drives me crazy when people do that to me. It is probably all Ithilden does all day. I hope Alfirin has a lot of patience. Ithilden must have been about to pass out when Legolas disappeared. My kids did the same thing to my poor beleagured husband when they went camping next to a gorge last week. It took him 10 minutes to find them and he had to sit down and calm down after he did. They did not make that mistake again. At least Ithiden gave him a good reason to keep his feet on the ground. The brotherly bonding at the pond was very sweet. They had fun just like they intended. Ithilden's protective thoughts towards his baby sibling was very touching. A 12 year old with a hidden dagger. That is not a good thing for the exact reasons you spelled out. Turgon is not exactly a good influence. I hope it wasn't Thranduil's letter opening dagger. I would hate for him to lose it. I loved the line "but the tree up which his brother had climbed was humming with his presence." It was very Wood Elf. Poor Legolas missed his big chance. Now he is going to be even grouchier. Certainly none of Thranduil's sons would take a chance jumping from tree to tree ... He shouldn't have done it but he was just being a kid. The snake joke was great! I thought it was really funny but apparenty Ithilden was at the end of his rope and didn't find it quite as amusing. Well, so much for brotherly bonding. I imagine they will sort things out in the end. Saw Troy last night - it was great! Paris is definitely not Legolas.

erunyauve · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

I can imagine Legolas' relief at the appearance of the horses, and his father was just what he needed. And I like the way Ithilden made the possibility of more spiders in the trees into a concrete threat for Legolas. He's too young to have the experience that would make him cautious, so Ithilden relied on what Legolas already knew to be true.

Hisie Lome · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

Daw, I have just read the last 2 chapters...Both were quite nice. I loved how concerned each brother was for their safety. Finally, Ithilden has discovered that Legolas is still young. As a middle school teacher, I can tell you that many of my children have the most unique logic...When Thranduil ask Eilian how his mind worked, he was posing this to an adult. The king was puzzled, yet he could possibly have an articulate conversation on the matter. However, children's thinking is oft times as if they are really from different planets. My 146 loves often just act and not think of the consequences. It was noteworthy that Legolas and Ithilden both apologized for loud words, but not for the behaviors themselves (the initial stimuli). Neither really thinks that they were wrong...Legolas only played a joke (his brother could have cursed or laughed) and Ithilden only ever tried to show his youngest brother how to be disciplined and respectful (Legolas has no real idea of the threats to the realm or himself.) Ithilden the hero! Karen was correct in that the realm is truly being serviced well! How terrifying to think that the child you are attempting to bond with and protect is suddenly in extreme danger. Then the hero falls....Guilt, angst, and high emotions! For shame ! I loved that the archery instructors have drilled the pupils not to shot close to another (for self preservation!) In my summer camp archery instructor days, I have given such edicts. That Ithilden would find humor in Legolas' apology was charming. Ada has arrived! Yeah! What a wonderfully warm scene. The King always seems so powerful and safe. The comfort he gives to "little" Legolas is fatherly and also takes into account his son's pride. That Legolas would want his Ada to take care of his big brother, instead of himself, further shows the maturity and his concern for his sibling. I wonder if Commander Prince Ithilden will find the humor in his adar having 2 body guards out riding? I seem to remember that the King really did not see the need to keep any (and that is mostly sitting around at the palace). As always, thank you for all of your hard work.... Minna Sedh, Hisie Lome

Molly · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

Poor Ithilden. This probably isn't what he had in mind when his aide demanded he take a leave. He'll need a vacation to recover from his vacation! I have a question... In chapter 7 of Fire and Shadow you say that Thranduil has grey eyes, but in chapter 11 of Spring Awakenings, you say they are blue. Which color do you picture him having? I've always thought Legolas got his eyes from his father, but of course they could have come from someone else, and Ithilden and Eilian have grey eyes, right? Just curious.

Jay of Lasgalen · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

What a tense chapter! Poor Ithilden, and poor Legolas too. Thank heavens that Thranduil sensed something wrong and acted on his forebodings, and thank heavens that he still had the guards Ithilden insisted on! I doubt Thranduil will argue their necessity again. Poor Thranduil must have been terrified when he realised that Legolas had been caught in a web, and that Ithilden had been bitten. For some reason I particularly like the final scenes when he carries his older son rather than Legolas. Jay

Duchess · 15 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

I loved this part and felt soooo sorry for Legolas having to leave Ithilden and run for help on his own. The Valar be thanked for Thranduil's sense of his sons and their well being. *vbg* Pleeeeease keep writing more of this one? I'm enjoying it immensely! :):):)

Ms. Whatsit · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

I think my favorite part was Ithilden remembering what his mom used to convince him not to jump too high and then using it on Legolas. Lorellin is a good role model for that kind of thing, I think--and it's good for Ithilden to remember that he was once an elfling! He's making an effort to speak Legolas's language, and that's good. Legolas is such a brave little kid. And we get to see Thranduil To The Rescue! Yay! I *love* seeing ProtectiveAda!Thranduil, especially when he's getting all proud of Legolas. I especially like the way you've made the setting of this story come alive. Mirkwood is a scary, spooky forest with many hidden dangers--which is why I fell in love with it!--and I think you've captured that especially well in this story. The creepiest thing was when Thranduil saw bits of cobwebs sticking to Legolas--ick! A scary sight!

Elentari · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

This was utterly beautiful, daw! A perfect early glimpse into old, brave Fellowship Legolas. I have particularly enjoyed Thrandy's display of affection towards his sons. He's not always easy to read or even deal with, but in these small little things daddy shines so bright! And now we have master's voices on Leggy's head as well! Legolas pays closer attention than people give him credit for.

esamen · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

Ithilden nodded. “I will be’ll right for a while,” he went on. He could hear his speech starting to slur. “Better t’be certain that help comes than take chance to get it more quickly and have it not come’t all. You’n I both safer’f you take path. Unnerstan’?” He reached up and caressed the side of his little brother’s neck. This is great . . . these lines seem to me to be the culmination of a beautifully crafted scene of Ithilden being overtaken by the venom . . . wonderfully done. Are the Mirkwook spiders related to Shelob? This chapter is so great, I'm going to go back and read it again for the sheer joy of doing so. Thanks!

Dot · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

Woah, what a thrilling chapter! “He dragged the sleeve of his tunic across his runny nose.” I don’t know what it is about that sentence - I just think Legolas really seems the epitome of misery. Poor thing. I like the bit where Ithilden realises that he doesn’t have to warn Legolas to stay near him when he’s looking for a stick. Yes, he may have learned something, but I think it shows as well that Legolas isn’t about to abandon his brother even for a second and also that he obviously finds Ithilden’s presence comforting, even despite his older brother’s terrible state. You did an incredible job showing Ithilden’s deterioration. God, I felt so bad for him as he struggled to continue, forcing himself to be calm in front of Legolas and trying to analytically look at his symptoms and assess his condition. It’s quite frightening to see him grow increasingly helpless and eventually lose control over his own body. The way you wrote his speech was amazing. I could see him desperately trying to make himself understood and trying not to frighten Legolas with an inability to communicate. I have to admit, it was kinda funny that Ithilden found it completely natural that his little brother had wandered off. That moment of honesty between them was so touching. “Unbidden, a sudden memory flared […]” What a great little anecdote. It just struck me that Ithilden doesn’t have anyone to “rage at his father’s unreasonableness” to anymore:( Lorellin really knew how to handle her sons. It’s always when you add in little stories like this that I really see what Legolas missed. But then, Thranduil probably didn’t explain himself to Ithilden when he forbade him to continue jumping and Ithilden very likely didn’t question his father, whereas Legolas doesn’t have a mother and his brothers often aren’t around so he does question Thranduil and I think that maybe Thranduil is better at explaining himself than he used to be. He could still do with a bit of practice, though! Legolas’ novice masters should be really proud of him! The poor elfling’s head is full of their voices but at least he keeps trying to put what he was told into practice. I’m tempted to feel sorry for him when he blames himself for what happened but I can’t really argue with his thoughts and it seems he finally realises what consequences can arise out of his disobedience. “And at their head was his father.” Thranduil! And his two guards! Yay! I’m really starting to develop a fondness for these guards. Do they have names? Or does he get different ones every day? So, he just went for a ride and happened to go a different way than usual? Hmmn. Actually, it’s interesting that he hadn’t realised earlier that there is something wrong with Ithilden when he has been known to sense Eilian and his bond with him is apparently weakest. But I guess he just couldn’t quite identify the source of his restlessness because he is completely unused to Ithilden being in trouble. It’s probably good that he didn’t anyway or he’d have panicked – or maybe headed straight for their camp and missed Legolas completely. How frightening it must have been for Thranduil when he beheld Legolas in all his dirty stickiness. I love the way he tries to soothe him and keeps his fears to himself. And Legolas can finally give into *his* fears and be a child again. The image of him sobbing on the ground was heartbreaking. Thank heavens for Ada being there when he’s needed. More antidote?? Should Legolas have told them how much Ithilden had already? Maybe it doesn’t matter – I’m ignorant about such things! The end was so great. Poor Thranduil, torn between two sons. I was so proud of the “gallant baby” (love that!) when he asks Thranduil to take Ithilden. Are they home yet? Are they home yet? Well, at least all Legolas remembers of the trip isn’t likely to be Ithilden being “bossy”! Btw, on a completely different note, I started re-reading “The Warrior” the other day (I'd forgotten he mentions the flet!) and have a request. Can Annael sleep over with Legolas some night?? :)

tigerlily713 · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

Great chapter! Legolas now has to deal with the guilt that comes of making a desicion that brings harm to others. A difficult but often effective lesson. I can't wait for more! Lily

Elvenesse · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

I liked it when Ithilden thought that it had just seemed natural to find that Legolas had disappeared. That seems to happen surprisingly often in my experience, one minute they’re there and next there gone. Have you had someone being bitten by a spider in one of your earlier stories? I think so, but I could be mistaking it for something else. Spiders don’t particularly bother me, even the ones in HP and RotK, but the though of actually being attacked and bitten a very large Mirkwood one does. In chapter 5 it says: “If he were not placed in the healers’ hands soon, he would be very sick for far longer than he liked to contemplate, but he probably would not die.” That was referring to one bite, so how ill is he going to be now he has been bitten twice? His heartbeat doesn’t sound too good. Thranduil was a good person for Legolas to meet. I can still remember how scary he was when his sons were threatened in ‘One Year In Mirkwood’. It was a good thing that Thranduil felt that something was wrong.

Dragon-of-the-North · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

Yes! Thranduil to the rescue! I really liked this chapter, and it was good to see the king there - I like it to see him getting active and all paternal. ;-) The exchange between the brothers was very moving, and Ithilden's plight was very moving, as was Legolas' brave try to get help. I liked seeing his infirmary knowledge coming into play... The best moment, though, was perhaps Ithilden's little childhood memory... Better late then never, I suppose! ;-) No, it was really good to see him recall a time in which he was not sensible, ever-so-responsible Ithilden, but a young elf as well. :-)

Antigone Q · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

There you have it. Never believe a child (Elfling, Dwarf or Human) who utters the phrase: "I won't be any trouble - I promise!" Snicker, snicker. It was very moving to have Thranduil ride to the rescue in the nick of time. I liked that something had kept nagging at him - nothing he could put his finger on, but worrisome. It was consistent with what you'd said already about parents and their links to their children. I also thought it was very true to life the way Legolas wanted everything - himself, the horse, his father - to be going faster so that Ithilden would get to the healers quicker. I've experienced that very feeling myself during emergencies. I'd actually done some research on antivenin (or "antivenom") for spider and snake bites and discovered that, while it's not hard to make, it would be hard for a low-tech society to administer. So I was impressed that you made it sufficiently vague and referred to it as an "antidote" instead. "Antidote" could be any herb or substance that counteracts the poision, not just something made from the poison itself. I expect Wood Elves would be sufficiently well-versed in the healing properties of the local plants that this alternative could work, and of course it has the advantage of being able to be administered in any way you want, because the reader doesn't know what's in it. Legolas and his father and brother will be home soon. Whew! That was quite tense. I hope everyone involved will have a good long rest now. Do you think both brothers will be forthcoming about the details of the whole trip, or will they invoke the sibling code of silence? I can't imagine either one will be eager to say, "Guess what I did?"

Lera · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

My heart is full after reading this. Wow, talk about a prank going wrong! I think this is about as wrong as a prank can go. I hate spiders even ones that are smaller than my thumb nail. I absolutely cannot imagine fighting ones that are bigger than me! I was as glad to see Thranduil as Legolas was. There was no one else I wanted to see riding along that path. Now that he is here all will be well. Great chapter. Hope to see an update soon. I was feeling sorry for Ithilden because probably for the rest of the story he'll be in bed. But then I remembered who the healer's daughter was and who will likely be caring for him and then I didn't feel so bad for him. lol.

Jebb · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

Thranduil rides to the rescue quite literally in fact I loved this whole chapter from Legolas and Ithilden struggling to get bck to camp and Legolas telling him others threw up too to make his brother feel better to the runny nose and Ithilden knowing he was going to have to send his brother alone to find a rescue. Oh but what a wonderful Adar they have knowing when to give comfort feeling something was wrong with his sons and then not being able to decide which son needed him most it was brave of Legolas to tell him to take Ithilden when what he really wanted I suspect is never to let go of Ada again tears and cheers for Ada

Rose Sared · 14 May 2004 · Chapter 6: Courage

So exciting, what a great chapter. I love to see Leggy reverting to acting rather younger than he is under stress, rather than pushing the 'grown up'side that he so wants to project. He is adorable and beautifully in character. I bet old Thrandy wished he had just let him sleep in the damned flet instead of going camping with such a result. Time for a guilt fest I think from all the protagonists. ha. Great story Rose