Starlight and Moonlight · 6 March 2018 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
Loved "The First Journey." I apologize for not leaving more reviews, but I just wanted to let you know that you are a great writer. Nice job, Manderly!
The First Journey by Manderly
Reviews (76)
Starlight and Moonlight · 1 March 2018 · Chapter 4: The Journey Begins
"The matter of timber?" Wow, that sounds very, totally exiting.
Asms2 · 28 March 2016 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
This is quite possibly the cutest thing I have ever read! You did a great job giving each character personality. I absolutely adored the action, sickness, and family love. Such a fun read!
EarthAngel-Alessandra · 11 February 2014 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
Amazing. Beautiful. I'm indebted to you and your stories for getting me through stress of school, for I have found no better escape, then that of reading your amazing stories :) The way you portray the characters warms my heart greatly, for it is all to adorable and sweet to read about :) I truly hope you have not permenantly taken leave of writing stories. Were it up to me, I'm be certain you received a diamond plaque each and every time you completed these marvelous stories. It's been so many years since your last story...I do hope that inspiration finds it's way to you once more. Until then, I will forever be sure to remain updated upon the arrival of your greatly welcomed stories.
Lost in the Forest · 17 December 2004 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
That was a wonderfully written piece. I enjoyed reading of Legolas' childhood experiences very much. Thank you.
lwarren · 29 August 2004 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
When my youngest son was about 18 months old, he came down with the croup and spent 3 days in the hospital. He's 20 now, and I can still remember his accusing expression when I had to hold him down so the nurses could get blood gas samples every HOUR! It is not a pleasant experience for any parent, no matter what the age of the child! Poor Thranduil...I know it about killed him! And poor Legolas! Breathing problems are the absolute scariest things to watch, as well as experience! This was a great ending...tho' I wish it wasn't the end...and I loved Thranduil and his relationship with all of his sons! You've done a great job with this story, Manderly, and I can't wait for the next effort!!!!! :-) linda (p.s. I thought I had reviewed this final chapter, but then, that's what I get for thinking! CRC strikes me every hour it seems! LOL)
Firnsarnien · 23 August 2004 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
Wow! We've come at last to the journey's end! LOL No pun intended! LOL Can't say I'm too thrilled about this story ending though. So, to thrill me, you've simply got to write another really soon, k? ;) *sigh* I loved all the wonderul Elfling angst and comfort. It's so...wonderful! *another sigh...again* My heart cringed with pity and a wittle bit of wuv when, as sick as poor Leggy was, he still managed to tell Thranduil, "Ada, I am home." Oh gawd! I loved that line! So perfect! So utterly charming! Poor little Leggy! Ow, ow, heart pangs, heart pangs! ;) Thank goodness for Kala! At least this healer has the herbs Leggy needs and knows what he is doing! I can literally see Tavaro sagging with relief when the healer comes into the room. I think we all sagged with relief a little too! LOL That adorable little Elfling has endured his sickness with such courage. Nary a complaint from the little darling! I tell ya, I love him more and more with each story you put out! He's just too awesome for words! Whew, I can't tell you how relieved I was that Thranduil didn't blame Tavaro nor condemn him for not watching Leggy more closely. I was so worried he'd say some things he'd later regret. And poor Tavaro, that was the last thing he needed. He already feels enough guilt without Thranduil blaming him too. I got a chuckle when Tavaro asked Thranduil if he already knew what liberties he'd given his little brother. I half expected Thranduil to say he did! LOL Ai, and that tent! I don't know who was hotter and more clausterphobic, Legolas or me! I could just feel that fresh air hitting my face when the blankets were removed! LOL Good grief, Leggy almost hacked up a lung too! :( You know, this 'little' infection he's gone through is no piece of cake I'll bet! I'm speaking from experience here for I've had pneumonia and it is NO walk in the park! You literally feel as if you are suffocating in your own body and can't even lay down or you can't breathe right. And the coughing, whew, enough to make you feel as if you've run a marathon! So I think I can certainly sympathize with poor little Leggy! Oh goody, and we got a little Aldeon/Leggy interaction in this chappy too! You are most kind! Hmmmm, out of all of Leggy's brothers, I still like Aldeon the most. But, Tavaro has grown on me immensely. I think this story has helped bring him from an untouchable, stern warrior to a vulnerable, loving older brother. Well, as I said before, I'm sad to see this wonderful journey come to an end. I hope you take us on another one real soon! :) It's been fun! :)
Author's reply
Yes, the journey has now ended and I too am feeling rather sad and lost. I have been thinking about another story, but nothing concrete yet. I am rather overdrawn in the muse department at the moment and will need to let it build up again. Both Tavaro and Legolas must be happy and relieved to be home. Their journey did not exactly have a fairy tale ending. Tavaro must be more than happy to let his father take over the responsibility of caring for Legolas. Don't think he's quite ready yet for fatherhood. I know what you mean about pneumonia. I had it once too and it's something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Once again, I want to thank you for your wonderful reviews throughout. It really has been a great source of encouragement!
mistry89 · 23 August 2004 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
A delightful look at a protected Legolas and his first essay into the big wide world. It was lovely to see him so awed by the ordinary things of life, so delighted in himself, in his brother, and becoming aware of just how deep his need for his father/king goes. Thank you so much.
Author's reply
Thank you! I am glad you liked the story. It was a lot of fun writing about an innocent Legolas, though probably not as exciting as writing about a warrior Legolas.
Anonymous · 20 August 2004 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
Wonderful story. Tavaro and Legolas are my favourite pairing. Any chance of another story with an even younger Legolas cos he's just so cute.
Author's reply
Thank you for your review. It was fun writing about the two brothers. A younger Legolas? That is something to consider, though right now I don't have anything planned.
Rose Sared · 19 August 2004 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
Oh I did enjoy that story. Thank you, all home and safe at last. Lovely. Thanks Rose
Author's reply
I am glad you enjoyed the story. It's nice to know that I have provided some entertainment. Thank you!
Bodkin · 19 August 2004 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
I'm glad they got back when they did. The smelly steam treatment sounds nasty, but is a good way of treating breathing difficulties. (Ahh, when I remember sitting up at night: number one son with rasping breath, boiling kettles with the lids off to fill the room with steam and having his breathing ease. Magic properties.) They didn't do anything TOO terrible while they were away - only the sorts of thing that your brother would let you do but your Adar wouldn't. Holiday behaviour. I'd love to hear Legolas telling his Adar all about it from his point of view. And Tavaro. And Baragallon. Is what's his name - Roitar? - going to come and visit Legolas at the palace? That would be a bit of a culture shock for him. It's great to go away, but it is always nice to come home.
Author's reply
The steam treatment is pretty nasty, and is probably something that Legolas (and Thranduil) will not forget any time soon. Holiday behaviour - I like that. I think we all fall into that one time or another. My Holiday behaviour is eating (lots) and not exercising. You are probably right about a culture shock for Roitar. Just having guards following him at every step will take the fun out of anything.
Karri · 18 August 2004 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
Quite an ordeal indeed, but I am very relieved Legolas came through it all right. Terrific story!
Author's reply
Legolas probably didn't count on anything quite so nasty to end his journey, but kids are pretty resilient. It will probably soon become something to brag about once he feels better. Thank you for your review!
daw the minstrel · 18 August 2004 · Chapter 14: Journey's End
That description of the steam treatment made me cringe it sounded so awful, although I know it was necessary. As a parent, there are few things more difficult than making your child do something that's physically painful for their own good. And Tavaro came out of this much better than I expected him to. Thranduil is pretty understanding.
Author's reply
I cringed when I was writing about the steam treatment. I think the parent actually feel the pain more than the child when it comes to things like this. Tavaro did get off kind of easy, but I think Thranduil probably decided that he suffered enough worrying over Legolas and the prospect of facing an angry king at the end of the journey.
Firnsarnien · 15 August 2004 · Chapter 13: Homeward Bound
I'm glad to hear the floodwaters at last receded. I was beginning to think we would have a major disaster on our hands! :( Ah, Roitar and Leggy asking the almost exact same thing was a nice touch. I can see how the little ones would see their father and brother as able to move mountains. LOL Poor Leggy, though he tries to deny it, he's really sicker than he wants to be. He just has the most rotten luck! But, it's so nice for us readers! LOL And Tavaro's worry is understandable as well. He loves his little brother and does not want to see him hurt in any way and he also has to think about what he's going to tell Thranduil. I'm sure his father will not be very happy with him that Leggy was hurt and took ill, even though it wasn't his fault. Tavaro has done all he could to make sure Leggy wouldn't come to any harm, as have the two warriors. But, it just seems fate has decided that nothing anyone could do would keep the little Elfing out of harms way. His trials as an Elfing are probably what made his such a wonderful and special Elf when he grows us. :) I loved the way Leggy told Vayne that his brother was being bossy! I could just see Tavaro's face when he said that! Wonderful line, that one! And this one too: "Yes, Adar," Legolas muttered insolently. OMG! That was great! You can't blame Tavaro for his hovering though. He's got good reason! Uh oh, Leggy may grieve over Huor's death. That's not going to be good for him. He needs to use his energy for healing, not grieving. Ai! And now look what he's done, the sobbing has made him have another coughing fit! I'm glad Tavaro has decided to take Legolas home. Perhaps there they will have the herbs Leggy needs to get better. Another nice touch was how Baragallon caught two rabbits hoping to encourage Leggy's appetite. Too bad it didn't work better but Leggy is just too sick and feverish to have much of one no matter what they do. "Ada?" Legolas blinked and his eyes flickered in confusion. Tavaro's heart tightened. That right there told me just how sick Leggy really is. The confusion is not good, the fever is taking hold of him. Poor Tavaro, he must be worried out of his mind. Hmmmm, might be interesting to see more of what Baragallon and Arandun might be feeling seeing their little princeling so ill. After all, they've come to love him so dearly. :) Wow, this was another great chappy. Wonderful angst! Wonderful worry from Tavaro and everyone else. Wonderful hurt and comfort! *sigh* Just wonderful all around! Can't wait for the next chappy! I do hope you hurry! :) You know, with each story, you just get better and better at writing. I guess you can say you're like fine wine! You get better with time! :) LOL
Author's reply
Not a very happy homecoming for Legolas and Tavaro, is it? Legolas is probably too sick to worry about anything, but poor Tavaro has to worry both about his sick brother and a possibly angry adar - a pretty lethal combination. Taking on an army of orcs might seem to be the better alternative! Legolas is having a pretty tough time. I can't imagine him having much experience in being sick so it must be quite frightening for him. No wonder he wants his adar. Getting better with time? I should point that out to my husband so he can better appreciate me. Thanks for those kind words. I find it, if anything, more difficult to write as I progress from story to story, as I try to be more careful and look at things from all angles before putting the words down. With the first story, I just wrote down anything that came to mind (I cringe to think of all the booboos that must be rampant throughout that story).
Firnsarnien · 15 August 2004 · Chapter 12: Ice and Water
Ai, even this little, Leggy is still stubborn, isn't he? LOL As hurt as he is and as much pain as he's got to be in, he's still pretty insistent that he will be up and around on his own! I honestly thought Tavaro was going to scold Leggy for giving his dagger to Roitar. Not because he would disapprove, but because maybe Thranduil would when he found out. I'm glad he didn't though. Aw, the way Leggy hugged Baragallon and Arandun was so sweet. I'll bet they fell even more in love with their little princeling. :) I got a laugh at how Legolas started to squirm under all the praise he was getting for rescuing Roitar. He did the same thing for Roitar that Baragallon did for him yet he does not want any special treatment for it. His humbleness is such a wonderful trait isn't it? ;) Uh oh, more coughing. He's getting sick by the sound of it. Or should I say, perhaps his lungs are becoming infected from the bacteria in the water he ingested. Yup, that's better! LOL :) We all know, Elves don't get sick! LOL I loved the way Legolas was surprised the tea the healer left for him was not bitter, but sweet. That was great! And Roitar wanting some too, oh my, I really laughed at that one! Imagine an Elfing *wanting* medicine! LOL Poor Leggy, the trip up the mountain really tired him out and his condition, he should not be out in such cold weather. I'm sure it did not help him one bit! I'm off to the next chappy to re-read and review. :)
Author's reply
It's delightful writing about stubborn little ones, as they are not my own. Seeing other people's kids being stubborn may be amusing, but if they are your own, then one simply gets the urge to wring their stubborn little necks. When I wrote the scene of Legolas thanking Baragallon and Aradun, I started wondering what it would be like for Thranduil to thank them the same way if he was saved by the guards - and started giggling. Things aren't looking well for Legolas, are they? Knowing that elves don't get sick, we have to find some very ingenious ways to circumvent that, don't we?
Firnsarnien · 15 August 2004 · Chapter 11: A Restless Night
:) Hi Manderly! *wave* I'm playing catch up here since I'm a little behind! Hey, blame the new school year starting, my new assignment as a 3rd grade teacher and CARE chair! LOL See, it's not my fault at all! ;) Well, what can I say? This chappy was just glorious! I think I especially loved Leggy's moaning, "Tired" when Tavaro woke him up. I bet Legolas makes such an adorable sleepy Elfling. And after all he's been through, it's a shame they have to wake him at all. But, since they did, I love the tender care Tavaro gave to his little brother. ;) *sigh* And that cough...doesn't sound very good does it? :( As far as the angst factor though, yeah, it does sound good! :) LOL Of course when the healer said the cough wasn't a concern for now unless it worsens, my immediate thought (and hope *blush*) was that it would worsen. This is after all, Legolas we are talking about! Everything happens to him! LOL Poor Roitar, he feels so guilty. I bet he'd have done the same for Legolas too. Those two little Elflings have become such good friends. And poor Baragallon. I bet he feels so guilty too. It's not his fault though, I hope he realizes that and doesn't blame himself too much. I only hope Thranduil doesn't blame the warrior. He feels enough guilt as it is despite Tavaro's grateful words. *double sigh* That little "nightmare" scene was wonderful! I loved it! Just loved it! The way Tavaro put Leggy on his chest reminded me of the way my son used to sleep on my chest when he was little. Such trust those little ones have in the strong arms that hold them close, no? :) Fears are so easily cast aside when they are that age. Wonderful chappy, I'm off to review the next one! :)
Author's reply
3rd grade teacher and CARE chair - you ARE brave! I can't imagine being responsible for other people's kids. I find managing my own challenging enough! The little rescue stunt that Legolas pulled certainly has everybody around him on edge, but like you said, everything always happen to him, and the journey so far has been quite trouble-free (can't have that, can we?). It's funny how little ones always settle down when sleeping with their parents (or older siblings). I can still remember my youngest slipping into our bed during thunder storms. It's wonderful to read your delightful reviews again.
Karri · 13 August 2004 · Chapter 13: Homeward Bound
I am greatly relieved that the flooding has been dealt with, but I am awfully worried for Legolas. Poor kid. Terrific chapter.
Author's reply
Legolas is not doing too well, is he? He's probably scared witless as well as I don't imagine that he has had much experience with being sick. Thanks for your review.
Rose Sared · 13 August 2004 · Chapter 13: Homeward Bound
Cliffie award for the day - gasp. Poor little mite, better get home soon methinks. I'll officially worry until the next chapter. (g) Rose
Author's reply
Offcially worry until the next chapter? That's a good one! Yes, I think the elfling needs to be home soon too, and drinking the nasty teas that the healer will be brewing up.
lwarren · 13 August 2004 · Chapter 13: Homeward Bound
Ai, Manderly! Poor Legolas! So sick, and worried about death, too! The scene where Tavaro tells him that Huor died was SO SAD! He didn't want Huor and his naneth in the Halls, he wanted them with him! *wails and wrings out hankie* Good chapter, and especially how it touches on Tavaro's worry of disappointing his Adar...but ya know, some things just cannot be helped, and this particular bit of trouble was not Tavaro's fault...or Legolas', for that matter! He was just being his sweet heroic self! (moremoremoremore....soon!) :-) linda
Author's reply
Dealing with death and getting sick must be totally alien to Legolas. I cannot imagine him having to deal with such things before this - except the death of his naneth, but then he probably can't remember too much of that. I think Tavaro must be silently wailing and wringing out hankies right along with you. Poor guy! I don't think it's their fault either for being in such a predicament. Let's hope Thranduil feels the same way.
daw the minstrel · 13 August 2004 · Chapter 13: Homeward Bound
Well, that's kind of scary. Poor Tavaro. He must be worried out of his mind. And even apart from his worry over Legolas, he's going to have to face Thranduil. Legolas sounds really uncomfortable and he's not used to that, given how resistent elves are to illness.
Author's reply
When I was charting out this story, I was wondering whether I was overstepping boundaries in writing about Legolas getting sick as elves are basically immune to diseases that afflict humans. I see Legolas' condition as more of a reaction to the near drowning rather than as falling ill due to some disease. It's a fine drawn line, I know, and I hope I haven't rocked too many boats. Poor Tavaro is right. The prospect of facing Thranduil with a sick Legolas would give the bravest of warriors the willies.
Bodkin · 13 August 2004 · Chapter 13: Homeward Bound
Poor Tavaro. Legolas is feeling ill, but I'm sure Tavaro is far more worried. Sickness and death - not a moment for Legolas to be reminded of mortality, poor little lamb. Tearful partings - horrible things. Even knowing you should live for ever, it is pretty nasty to part from much loved friends. I hope they get him home to Adar and healers with herbs soon.
Author's reply
I think Tavaro deserves more sympathy here. Legolas just has to put up with feeling sick, but Tavaro meanwhile is worried sick for his brother AND the prospect of facing Thranduil with a sick Legolas in tow. I hate goodbys. My family lives across the country from me and though I love visting them, I always dread saying goodby when it's time to leave.
lwarren · 11 August 2004 · Chapter 12: Ice and Water
uh-oh...tired and pale, a "catch" in the throat that causes a cough with deep breaths, no appetite, sleeping alot....sounds suspiciously like pneumonia to me (I've had that "catch" before with onset pneumonia and it hurts!) Poor elfling, and no herbs in sight either! Water rising...I may hyperventilate for the whole settlement! :-) This was a good chapter leading up to the extremes I foresee later :-0 and shows quite well the devastation floods can cause, and how quickly it can happen. (Did someone say Houston, we have a problem? I live about 35 miles north of H-town and we are currently watching hurricanes and tropical storms, so flooding seems appropriate about now, tho' so far they've turned a bit!!) Legolas was so good with the guards and Roitar...and I've said it before, but I love those guards! The prince is more to them than a charge, or a prince, or a confrontation with the King...he really means something to them! Now I hope Herendil and Tavaro can stay out of hot (er...cold) water, and the herbs for L magically appear! Well done! linda
Author's reply
The signs do not bode well for Legolas. Pneumonia is nasty business having suffered through it once myself. I just wonder whether elves are afflicted in the same way as us (imagination beginning to run wild). Floods are pretty devastating - one can put out a fire, but really can't put out a flood, though I don't know whether I want to experience either. I hope the hurricane and tropical storms bypass where you are. I was reading in the newspaper today about the double-whammy that is about to hit Florida. Will keep my fingers crossed. I am beginning to grow quite attached to the guards as well and am trying to think of ways to bring them back in another story.
Rose Sared · 11 August 2004 · Chapter 12: Ice and Water
oops, pneumonia lurks huh? Poor little elfling he is not going to forget this journey in a hurry is he? Amazng he ever left home again really.G> Enjoying this fic lots. Rose
Author's reply
This journey is probably becoming more memorable by the minute for the elfling. Yes, amazing that Thranduil would let him out of his sight after this adventure. But I find that kids are very resilient - they seem to be able to forget the nasty times soon enough as long as there are enough good times to balance things out.
Bodkin · 11 August 2004 · Chapter 12: Ice and Water
Ominous, ominous. Legolas doesn't seem well - the floods are coming - the herbs are lost. Houston, we have a problem. Tavaro and the dagger - he understands the value of friendship, doesn't he? Worth above rubies. Love the way Legolas hugged the guards. And their reasoning - not just their duty but their responsibility. They couldn't let something nasty happen to him, even without the spectre of Thranduil over their heads. And then the way Legolas comforted Roitar. A very anxious time. Nature can be scarier than orcs.
Author's reply
Houston, we have a problem - that's funny! I can almost hear Tom Hank's voice saying that. Tavaro knows the meaning behind the exchange of daggers. I wouldn't be surprised if he and Herendil have done the same thing themselves millenia ago. The guards take their assignment to heart, don't they? Good thing that Legolas understands and appreciates that. Nature is certainly more unpredictable than orcs. I've had a couple of nasty experiences with a flooded basement - not pleasant at all.
Karri · 10 August 2004 · Chapter 12: Ice and Water
Oi! The situation certainly looks grim, both with the river and Legolas's health. I hope it will turn out well.
Author's reply
Floods, evacuation and coughing. What else can go wrong? I am beginning to feel a little sadistic in what I am putting the elves through, including Legolas.