Reviews (78)

Lianna · 16 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Chapter 10

Poor Eldarion. He sure didn't see THAT coming.

Jay of Lasgalen · 16 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Chapter 10

Oh dear. Eldarion can still be rather crass at times, can't he? That was a rather unfortunate question - poor Thranduil. I was a little disappointed in the feast - I'd hoped to see both Thranduil AND Legolas in formal regalia, complete with crowning circlets. King and Prince, in all their glory ... *sigh*. Maybe another time? Jay

daw the minstrel · 16 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Chapter 10

That is a shocking thought for Eldarion! I liked the part earlier in the chapter where Eldarion thinks that his experience has taught him that his wishes were not always to be granted. That harkens back to earlier chapters quite nicely.

Dot · 10 October 2004 · Chapter 9: Chapter 9

Ack, poor Thranduil. I guess that even though he knew his son had been touched by the sea-longing, it’s only when he is in this place and hears the trees lament the fact that Legolas’ heart cannot find true solace in their song that it really drives home what he’s suffered. I’m glad Legolas finds the sound of the stream soothing rather than a torment. Oh, I just loved the image of Legolas tugging on Thranduil’s sleeve. For a moment it’s as though he’s a child again, excited about his new project and wondering what his beloved adar will think. Actually, my favourite moment from this chapter has to be the silent communication between Thranduil and his own father and it’s kind of similar in a way, albeit with a poignant sense of longing to know how Oropher would feel if he could see what has finally been accomplished. It must be hard for so many of those left to know that even though peace has been achieved and the elves can live as they were intended to do, so many of those who fought longest and hardest for something in which they truly believed aren’t around to see it. But then, sadly that’s the way of life and it’s nice to think that Oropher was at least there in spirit to share the joy of his son and grandson. LOL at Thranduil teasing Legolas about Gimli. Excellent judgment in choosing friends, indeed. But it shows tremendous courage and generosity on his part to put past grudges behind him and recognise how the war and all its tragedy affected everyone and should bring them closer rather than separate them further. Plus, he loves his son and it’s just wonderful to see how much he wants him to be happy. Btw, I really like the fact that there are specific tables there for the Dwarves – it shows that they must be regular and very welcome visitors. “Then rather than come here alone you should have shown a little more respect for your father’s wishes, and arrived with your escort as your status demand. No doubt those chosen to protect their prince consider it an honour to do so.” Oops, guess he never thought of it like that. I have to admit, I didn’t either but of course it could be viewed as an insult to both the escort and his father if Eldarion just rides off and leaves them to follow whenever they realise he’s gone. Thranduil will definitely be good for Eldarion, I think. He’s experienced life as a prince and king and though elves would have different customs, he still might have a better understanding of Eldarion’s life than even Aragorn, who led a completely different life until he found himself quite suddenly king. Ah well, we’ll see how things turn out ;-)

Nikara · 10 October 2004 · Chapter 9: Chapter 9

It is a relief to see Thranduil finally making peace with the dwarves. Great job on this chapter.

Wantanelf · 10 October 2004 · Chapter 9: Chapter 9

I really love how you have handled Legolas and Thranduil in the last two chapters. Their relationship is so touching and bittersweet. This story is really taking unexpected turns. I can't wait to see what comes up next.

daw the minstrel · 10 October 2004 · Chapter 9: Chapter 9

Thranduil must indeed have felt pain when he saw Legolas's sea longing. It's interesting that the stream comforted him. I liked the ending, with it's reminder of the restrictions that Eldarion has to live under.

elliska · 10 October 2004 · Chapter 9: Chapter 9

An absolutely delightful chapter! I love the interaction between Thranduil and Legolas and Thranduil's reflections both on living in the trees vs the caves and Legolas' sealonging were well done. But the end was classic. I can just see Thranduil telling Eldarion to go behave like a prince but I will bet it stung when Legolas agreed. Great chapter.

Jay of Lasgalen · 10 October 2004 · Chapter 9: Chapter 9

Oh poor Eldarion - he's still in trouble! It must be difficult to remember to act in accordance with his rank all the time. On the other hand, I'm delighted that Thranduil accepts Gimli so warmly, and can even tease Legolas about his friendship. Jay

Bodkin · 10 October 2004 · Chapter 9: Chapter 9

I somehow have the feeling that Eldarion will find it easier to take instruction on royal behaviour and kingship from Thranduil than from his own father. Quite apart from the fact that it is almost always easier to learn from non-family members, Thranduil has such a presence and so many centuries of experience and seeing Legolas in his adar's company will be a teaching experience that needs no words. It probably doesn't help Eldarion that he is the first in his family to have to come to terms with the rules governing his existence. Faramir probably has more idea of the implications than Aragorn, who grew up as Elrond's foster son, but went out into the wild to learn to do things his way. And even Faramir would have far less idea of the pressures of being the heir to the ruler than Boromir would have done. And all the stories with which Eldarion has grown up are about adventure and excitement and freedom - and he is stuck with etiquette and guards and control.

Bodkin · 8 October 2004 · Chapter 8: Chapter 8

I love the influence of his elven heritage on Eldarion - thought I think the royal escort was for a REASON - more to be impressive and regal rather than to keep him safe. However, Thranduil is probably more impressed by a Prince of Gondor who can communicate with trees, even at a basic level. Eldarion is trying to be good about not being allowed to be a Ranger, but it is still hard for him. I'm sure Thranduil and Legolas will be good for him and help him grow into his role.

Dot · 8 October 2004 · Chapter 8: Chapter 8

Hi. Mother of the bride, eh? Congrats! Sounds like an exhausting job, though...;-) I really enjoyed this chapter. I like how easily even Sarien seems to get on with Faramir. I get the impression that he's more or less grown up around him and is almost as used to his company as Eldarion is. He was obviously completely at home in the palace anyway if he was often in the queen's chambers. That's a nice thought and also shows why Eldarion might be finding it more difficult now that he's older to have formality and duty separate him from his best friend soemtimes. I had to laugh at the way Faramir speaks so casually about the elves - even though he himself is fascinated by them - because he knows how impressed the younger men will be. It's quite strange for the names of the elves to be spoken by Sarien but there's something really touching about how much respect they all seem to have for them and the fact that they are aware of at least some of their part in history. LOL at them hating lessons so much. I'd personally prefer it to doing any sort of weapons training... I suppose, though, Eldarion is going to have to know a lot the history of ME if he is to become as good a ruler as his father. I felt bad for poor Eldarion when Faramir and Sarien discuss the life of a ranger. How mature and generous of him to try not to let his disappointment ruin it for his friend. I love the idea that Eldarion can sense something in the trees even though he can't quite place it at first. There's a wonderful sense of peace and contentment that comes through here. Yay, it's Thranduil!! You really made me smile at the way he and Legolas seem to appear out of nowhere. Your description fo Thranduil was amazing. I think my mouth was open as much as Eldarion's probably was. I think it's good for Eldarion as well to see Legolas and Thranduil able to switch from formality to informality so easily; he'll realise that it is indeed possible. “That is because Adar is here,” Legolas said simply." Oh! LOVE that! It's just wonderful to think of the forest responding to Thranduil like that, but at the same time I guess it's rather sad that the trees might respond more easily to him than to Legolas who must not be as deeply tied to the forest any more. Great chapter. *sigh* I do love Thranduil. Bet you never knew that...;-)

Nikara · 7 October 2004 · Chapter 8: Chapter 8

Ah. Something ominous left unsaid between the two of them. I eagerly await the next chapter to discover what it is!

daw the minstrel · 7 October 2004 · Chapter 8: Chapter 8

I like the idea of Eldarion's elvish blood making him more in tune with the trees. And even more, I like the idea that the tree are alive and excited because Thranduil is there. Eldarion is behaving very well, trying not to lessen his friend's pleasure.

Nikara · 26 September 2004 · Chapter 7: Chapter 7

I like the way that you characterized Eldarion. He is still stubborn enough to get mad at his father about somewhat childish things, but he is able to see reason after he calms down. It shows that slowly but steadily he is maturing.

elliska · 25 September 2004 · Chapter 7: Chapter 7

Very well handled all the way around. Poor Aragorn. "I am not Elrond" indeed! That made me laugh. Fathers and their daughters are always great.

souad · 25 September 2004 · Chapter 7: Chapter 7

Keep update this story, it is very good!!!

Dot · 25 September 2004 · Chapter 7: Chapter 7

Ouch. Aragorn and Arwen really don’t have it easy with their children! I really felt for Eldarion, especially when he begins to realise that it’s not just that he won’t get his wish but that this is just the start of his assumption of more duties as well as the fact that he will be separated from his best friend. I don’t blame him for being angry and disappointed but I can see why Aragorn would be just as disappointed that his son and heir reacted so immaturely. You did a great job of showing both sides. Aragorn’s question about Eldarion spoiling his friend’s joyous news is positively Legolas-esque. It was a good approach, and took Eldarion out of his misery to see beyond his own disappointment. Of course, as expected, he cheered up at the prospect of visiting the elves. It must be some bit exciting for him to ride there complete with Royal Guard. Still… Eldarion will have to learn to accept his duties without being bribed like a small child. Poor Maerrin too. I thought Aragorn came across as a very good father in this chapter but I had to laugh at his total bewilderment when told of his daughters’ tears. “[…]you, my love are now a ‘mean old King’.” LOL! It’s just so sweet how loyal Janiel is to both of her siblings, even if it means being angry with her father. Eldarion is so mature when dealing with his sisters. I think it’s there that we can really glimpse the person he will become; he just needs time to accept the restrictions and responsibilities placed on him. As they grow older, his friends probably have more freedom while he seems to have less. I guess he’ll eventually reach acceptance but in the meantime it’s fascinating to watch the poor guy’s struggle! :-)

daw the minstrel · 25 September 2004 · Chapter 7: Chapter 7

Aragorn handled that very well! He's an excellent father. I liked the fact that you showed him groping around trying to figure out what was best to do though. That was certainly realistic, judging from my experience as a parent.

Dot · 21 September 2004 · Chapter 6: Chapter 6

I was seriously considering sulking because Thranduil hasn’t made his appearance yet, but then you made up for it with *such* a great chapter… I had meant to ask you the last time if any of his sisters had been born yet – but you’ve answered my question! I loved the scene with the three siblings. What an affectionate relationship they have. Eldarion looks like a fun older brother! I’m glad to see that the girls are well able to stand up for themselves. I suppose they learn from a mother who had to grow up with not just one but two older brothers. So Maerrin has fallen for Sarien? Ouch. How awful for Arwen to know that two of her children will be deeply upset by news that is so good for Sarien. Eldarion is great in this. I can sense that he’s starting to grow up; he prefers to talk to his father but still maintains a very loving relationship with his mother and sisters, clearly relishing teasing them. I’d say little Janiel adores him. How sweet of him to get his young sister permission to attend the banquet! I felt so bad for him when he was called to Aragorn’s study, especially as he immediately jumped to the wrong conclusion. I’d love to know what Aragorn thought of Eldarion’s desire to become a ranger. Part of him must have been proud that his son wanted to follow in his footsteps and I imagine it can’t have been easy not to allow him to do so. But Aragorn is right. I guess Eldarion is only just realising that his position may have privileges but it also brings restrictions. Arwen was afraid that he’d be disappointed but I don’t know if she anticipated such anger. He might be growing up but he still has a lot of maturing to do yet. It makes me afraid of what he might do next :-(

daw the minstrel · 21 September 2004 · Chapter 6: Chapter 6

This is an intriguing look at a young man who is still struggling with himself. He's loving and gallant with his sisters (which not every young man is!) and his hope is one that would be praised in most men. He wants to serve his father's kingdom and have some adventure with a friend. It seems so harmless. But because of who he is, he can't. And he's angry about that. It will be interesting to see how he manages to work his head and heart around that reality.

elliska · 21 September 2004 · Chapter 6: Chapter 6

Oh yeah, that would be one to cause some conflict. No one is going to enjoy trying to deal with the aftermath of that announcement. And your interaction with the girls was right on. Loved it. Looking forward to the next update.

fliewatuet · 21 September 2004 · Chapter 6: Chapter 6

Aragorn's decision won't be easy to bear for poor Eldarion. His best friend is to become a Ranger, even his father was once a Ranger, yet he is denied the experience. I am sure he'd wish to be born a lesser man's son right now. And I wonder how Aragorn will reconcile with Eldarion after this heavy blow.

Nikara · 20 September 2004 · Chapter 6: Chapter 6

Aww, poor baby. No one ever wants to here that they are going to be separated from their best friend. He is so sweet with his sisters. How old is he now?

Nikara · 20 September 2004 · Chapter 5: Chapter 5

Very nice chapter. I like the way you deal with Eldarion's aging. I can't wait to see Thranduil