Reviews (321)

French Pony · 25 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

How neat to find this upon coming home from the family seder! It's especially interesting because, right before we began, Cousin Milt stood up and gave the little speech introducing all the distant relatives from two branches of a rather large extended family. Apparently, the father of one of the cousins-in-law died this past week. The cousin-in-law herself wasn't there, but several members of her immediate family were. Milt stressed that, even as we were to mourn for the one who had died, a holiday was a holiday, and we were not to let the death of one halt the celebration of Passover completely. Even after death, life keeps on going, and Passover keeps coming, and the seder goes on as planned. Sounds like Legolas could use a little visit with Cousin Milt right now, or with Uncle Bernie, who's buried three wives (and it's probably a good thing that Elves never have to go through doing that). Failing that, he has Thranduil and Beliond and Elowen and Annael, and all the other wonderful, loving people in his life. I think it's probably a testament to their love for him and their willingness to get involved with his problems that prevented him from turning into a bitter shell. If Galelas had been the one to lose a girlfriend, I can't imagine his family being half so supportive, and he'd probably end up a muttering old hermit out in the woods throwing rocks at women and children to keep them away. It's also instructive to see, as Legolas makes his rounds, just how many of your cast of supporting characters have lost a close relative. Death may be an unnatural experience for Elves in general, but it's all too familiar to the Elves in this particular community. They're nearly as practiced at dealing with it as humans are, which says something sad about the state their lives are in. Thranduil, of course, is in fine form. But we expected that. He's an absolute master of knowing the right thing to do, especially with Legolas. I guess he's better with Legolas than with the other two because he raised that kid with no help. I was half expecting him to quote my mother and say that a kid is never be too big to sit in its parent's lap and be comforted. And then I remembered that you don't know my mother, so you wouldn't know she'd said that. But Thranduil came close enough anyway. The pruning shears story, by the way, smells suspiciously of being something that you've experienced from the naneth's point of view. And I see that you've decided to give Legolas a little reward for all the tsuris you put him through this story, and he gets a little memory of his mother back. I suppose the question is whether it was worth the pain. But he had to have something, and that was a nice thing to give him. So, now that the story's over, what prompted the Fickle Finger of Fate to point in Tuilinn's general direction? Were you looking for a big bat to smack Legolas with?

moonshine44(ff.n) · 25 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Well Daw, I am most unhappy to see this story come to an end. It was great! The ending was especially good. The memory of Legolas and his mother added the perfect touch to the story. It was so sweet! I do still feel bad for Legolas, though. It must be hard for him to watch his brothers be so happy and know that he won`t have the same happiness for a long time. He is lucky to have Thranduil to help ease his pain a little, or at least confide in him when he wants. I`m glad to know that it will all work out for him : ) I have so many questions I could ask. Like are there many more stories in the future? Or what`s the next story about and when is it coming? Are these hints to vague? lol. Not to be pushy or anything : p Ok one more thing. On ff.n, where you list the order of your fanfiction stories, I think you may have forgotten to list Time`s Turning. Just thought I`d point that out in case you wanted to know. Well, I can`t wait to read the next story(if you write one which I hope you do!) so good luck writing!

sheraiah · 25 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Just re-read this and remembered something I left out of my original review! The bit about little!Legolas 'helping' with the roses just about slayed me. I've been 'helped' like that a lot lately by my almost 3 year old son. They're so impossibly cute when they 'help' that you can't even fuss at them for destroying things with their 'help. Great addition, and also so very true to life! Hugs, sheraiah

Alison H · 25 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Thank you, Daw for this wonderful, heartbreaking, but heartwarming story.I think all your reviewers want to hug Legolas into oblivion! Poor, poor elf but he has the love of his family and friends to help him recover. I just love Thranduil when he shows just what a caring father he is.When he said that Legolas was more important than his officail duties I smiled at the joy Legolas felt from that simple statement.Such a tender moment. You weave such a realistic portrait of the lives of these elves that they always seem to be living, breathing people--and so this story was often very hard to read because I adore them all so much.I am definitely addicted to this family and I hope you always write about them and share your tales with us. Now go and have a nice, long rest and I look forward to your next story. Hugs, Ali.

sheraiah · 25 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Daw, I think that of all your fantastic stories, and I do love them all, this one is my favorite. I love stories that make me cry to begin with, but this one is special on several levels. One, it's a completely plausible explanation as to why Legolas is single at the time of the Quest even though he's long past the age when elves traditionally marry. Two, his reactions and emotions are so in keeping with Tolkien's ideals and also so true to human experience that the average reader can relate to them. And third, the reactions of his friends and family are so well handled, particularly Thranduil's. Of course, since he's my all-time favorite of Tolkien's characters it's not surprising that I think that. ;-) And while I would dearly love to see you do a story where Legolas reunites with both Tuillin and his naneth in Valinor, I can understand completely why you would be reluctant to do it. Of course, if I manage to sic any plot bunnies on you, so much the better. But, I'm evil anyway and it'd be payback for the two or three I've had bite me because of reading your stories. Loved it, Daw, and I can't wait to see what you do next. Hugs, sheraiah

thechevin · 25 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

What can I say? I am sorry so see this tale ending but loved the way you brought everything together and gave Legolas at least a brief glimpse of a happy life beyond all the grief and suffering he is dealing with presently His emotions were certainly raw and the fact that he had difficulty being with 'happy people' really rang true to me Everyone wantsd to help and give comfort but only those who have been in a similar situation really know how he feels and this was made clear by Beliond, only he would storm the palace and carry off Legolas without so much as a by your leave, although I guess the king must have known what he intended to do. His silent support seemed to ease Legolas and give him time to think His family are so loving Eilian and Ithilden and Alfirin trying to make sure he eats! Anneal and his mother as well offering support But it is the one family member who relates directly to his grief that shines through and with whom Legolas can allow himself time to grieve. I thought it was lovely how Legolas learned from his father how to deal with going on with life and how much quiet support he offered even managing to hold back what were quite natural fears for his son what a parent he must be The ending with the memory of the day long ago in the garden just made me cry all over again for both of them A truly wonderful story and so rich in emotion thanks for allowing us to visit your Middle Earth again I can't go without asking of course how soon will we see another story? Judy

Jay of Lasgalen · 25 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

I've been longing for this chapter, because I so wanted to see Thranduil with Legolas. He was just as caring, concerned and compassionate as I expected - he's been there, and knows what Legolas is going through. In him, Legolas can see that it is possible to be happy again. Yhe scene with Galelas's mother was a little light relief, but sad at the same time: '“Galelas was extremely brave in the face of the dragon’s approach. I was lucky to have him with me.” Galelas’s mother beamed at him. “Yes, both of my sons are brave.”' Poor, poor Galelas. And the utter crassness of this remark: 'I just thank the Valar that nothing worse occurred.” It was good of Beliond to whisk Legolas away from the rather claustrophobic care of his family to the peace and quiet of the forest. The moment when he hears the song of the tree include him was a real moment of healing, I think. Jay

Bodkin · 25 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

'to high-handedly tell' - Morgoth's teeth, I split an infinitive. Sorry.

Purplesmackers · 25 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

I am a huge fan! - and I have been waiting all weekend for this chapter. I was not disappointed. Although I have found so many wonderful moments within this story, it has also been exremely frustrating for me as well! lol With this all being told from within Legolas' head, I constantly found myself trying to reread each chapter from all the other characters' points of view. I can only imagine how difficult this story was to write! This final chapter did such a great job tying everything together. I love how Legolas questions his ability to sleep unaided for the first time. I also loved the description of Legolas' first moments home with his family. My favorite moment in this section, though, was Legolas' comments about the fireplace and how he had not realized how cold he had been feeling. However, like the loving father he is, Thranduil understands what his son is going through. In this chapter, the scene between Beliond and Legolas was wonderful! Beliond always shows up at the perfect time, and always seems to know what would be best for Legolas. You can definitely see the level of care Beliond has for Legolas. Any insight into Beliond's life gets bonus points from me. Also, I personally love every time you have Alfirin and Beliond interact with one another. It brings a smile to my face. It was also great to see Annael make an appearance. It was nice to see the two friends let loose for a short time in the woods. Annael is a great friend to Legolas. Finally, it was more than I could have hoped for to see Legolas finding a new way of relating to his father. It was beautiful seeing the new understanding of his father blossom in Legolas. Before this story, I don't think Legolas truly understands the level of love and understanding Thranduil has for each of his sons...especially his youngest. Legolas certainly does a lot of growing through this story. The memory of his naneth was a brilliant addition. I always feel sad whenever it is mentioned how that time in his life is a blank. I was curious how you would handle that, but once again, it was handled brilliantly! I feel like I will need to read this story a few more times - especially this last chapter. I am use to seeing things from Eilian's point of view (he is my favorite character...and as cheesy as this sounds, when I finally settle down and decide to have kids, I plan on naming my first child Eilian...as long as you don't mind, of course! lol) For some reason, I have found it difficult to understand Eilian in this story. Perhaps that is because I am use to seeing things through Eilian's thoughts - especially when it comes to his younger brother. Overall, as always, you are a wonderful author. I am never disappointed in any of your stories, and you have outdone yourself this time. I loved the memory of Legolas' about the role Alfirin played when Legolas was still a youth and she came to run the household. In some ways, she played the role of 'naneth' for Legolas. Have you ever thought of doing a story based on this time period of Alfirin and Legolas? I am constantly amazed at the world you have managed to create in this universe. Wonderful!

Bodkin · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Is there any part of this that is less than excellent? Answer: no. Legolas's grief - his inability to speak and eat, his reluctance to be with people who are happy, his inertia, and so on are just so accurate. The anxiety of his family - all hanging there and not quite sure what to do except feed and talk to him, yet all unconsciously increasing his feelings of loss and abandonment. Thranduil is just brilliant. I only wish he had had someone comparable to him to lean on when Lorellin died. He coped by being needed - by realm and sons - and by being angry, but a shoulder would have been a bonus. I'm glad that Legolas has made a note of the Problem with the Grotto. And where on the path he should not stand when revealing confidential information. Beliond - what a star. I loved the way he stalked into the palace. Not, I would think, a way most people move when approaching the heart of power, but very, very Beliond. And then to high-handedly tell Legolas that he is going camping. And he was only too right that it was what Legolas needed. Even to the silence. (Though he must have cleared it with the King, or they would have been chased. But Thranduil probably recognised his need to be away from fussing for a while. And Nana Beliond's fussing is of a very non-fussy kind.) Annael's care is what he needs, too. Undemanding. Annael has always been good at being the kind of friend who gives what Legolas needs, rather than demanding. And it was good for Legolas to see Elowen and Galelas and Naran's parents. But the best moment of all, I think, was Legolas's recovered memory of his naneth. I hope that, now he has found a trail into the big black hole, he will be able to find a little more of her in there. Such a good story. So well written. So skilled. It must have been hard to do - but it was worth it!

Jems · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Wow! This was yet another wonderful story. I really enjoyed the way you decided to do it all from the one character's perspective but was still able to bring the other characters in, like you did through Eilian's letters. I think you captured the feelings perfectly , especially in this last chapter. I do have one question though: do you think that Legolas will be able to eventually feel the connection with Tuilian when his grief fades, even though they didn't officially bond? I'm glad that it seems like he will. Thank-you for sharing your talent, I find that I am able to read your stories over-and-over again and get just as much, if not more enjoyment from them. Have you ever considered writing about Legolas' return to his family after the war of the ring? I look forward to your next story. Thanks again!! :)

Kristy · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Ohhh, that hurt my heart! Poor Legolas! Daw, that was just mean, but you did it so well. Wonderful job even if it did just about break my heart.

Ms. Whatsit · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

It's interesting how both Legolas and Thranduil fall in love "at first sight" or pretty close to it. That's a cliche among humans, but Elves as Tolkien wrote them can really do that. Their emotions are so much clearer and sharper, which can be a curse. I loved Beliond hauling Legolas off for camping. That was just brilliant. And that conversation with Galelas was also good. At least Legolas has a great support system in place. It's so true that it's easier to be around grieving people when you yourself are grieving.

elliska · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Oh goody! I loved hearing Legolas's memories of arriving at the stronghold. He really needed all his loving family and his adar making sure that he got some peace. That was so touching. And this line: A wave of guilt washed over him. Could he really have forgotten her enough to sleep? God, that is so true that you feel that. And then this immediately made me chuckle: and while Legolas thought that in a pinch he could ignore Beliond’s orders, he could not imagine defying his father. That was great. :) And Thranduil did a great job with the food. "If it will make Alfirin happy..." Very smart play there, ada. I loved Legolas's memories and reasoning there. You did a really good job capturing a still reeling (sp?) but slowly recovering mind. Thranduil, like all good fathers, knows exactly what to say. I was so glad, as sad as it seems, to see Legolas cry. He needs a good many of them. That whole conversation was great and I can't cite what part I like best without citing all of it. But to his dismay, he found it difficult to bring himself in tune with that song, distracted as he was by the pain that seemed permanently lodged in his chest. Great description (as was Thranduil's when he said that about Arda is still beautiful, no matter how hard that is to see). This type of thing is so elfy while at the same time being something we can understand perfectly well. Poor Legolas has really always hated people fussing over him and he just can't stand it now, which is natural because when you are grieving, you've got 0 tolerance. His inability to look at his brothers with their wives is so sad but also very realistic. And just when I was wondering how he was going to stand it, in stalks Beliond! That was perfect! He turned to glare at Eilian. “Are you going to object too?” Eilian raised his hands in protest. “I would not dare.” Hah! Loved it! “Then perhaps we will just enjoy the moment. In silence,” he added forbiddingly. Beliond is exactly perfect for Legolas's mood! That was just great! And so was Legolas's ride with Annael. I love seeing those two old friends together. Annael could always be whatever Legolas needed at the moment--a true friend. And Galelas. Those two will just never see eye-to-eye, but I suppose they are doing a little better. I really feel sorrier and sorrier for Galelas everytime we see him. I don't think I could stand to read Tangled Web again. But the upside of that conversation is that Legolas actually managed to joke about Celuwen. He must have been feeling brave to go visit Naran’s parents. But the best part was the last with Thranduil and that memory of the roses. I am so glad Legolas remembered it. That he can barely remember her seems so tragic to me. I absolutely loved that. This chapter must have been very hard to write. You have sooo much in it and it is so well done. This whole story has been absolutely fantastic. I imagine it has seemed difficult (technically, not just emotionally) but the experiment was an absolutely resounding success. And this emotional trauma was the perfect story to try the single POV with. I think it made it even more poignant (sp?). Absolutely wonderful! And it wouldn't be a last chapter if I didn't beg for a hint at your next one. You must have expected that.

meckinock · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Crud - sleep deprivation - I forgot to say how much I LOVE "We're going camping, kid. Getcher gear" Beliond. Yes, that was exactly what Legolas needed!

meckinock · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

This was fantastic, Daw. First, I just loved comforting!Ada Thranduil. Taking Legolas onto his horse, putting him to bed, waiting in his room for him and holding him as he wept-- that was all wonderful. Legolas's grief is still so real and palpable, and oh my goodness, you are too cruel - I almost forgot how he ended up with his turkey timer popped in the first place - listening to his brothers and their wives carry on lovey-dovey spousal interactions. Now it's a hundred times worse! Poor kid! I loved the line, "he wondered if he had enough energy to get up and leave the room." You really have captured the essence of grief here - Legolas can't stand to be around happy people, all of a sudden he can relate much more easily to sad people - great touch to go back to Naran's parents again, that was brilliant -- and he's alternately reaching out for comfort and being resentful at being comforted. Wonderful story.

The Karenator · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

This is a lovely wrap up, daw. The pain is still there for Legolas, but he's slowly taking steps back toward coping and going on with his life. I really liked the scene where Legolas vaguely recalls returning home. I could see and feel how exhausted he was from the shock and grief. He had managed to hang on until Thranduil arrived and then he could give control over to his adar and he could just sleep. Maybe even simply escape for a while into sleep. He seemed to feel completely safe with his father. He was still having a hard time seeing happy couples and accepting comfort from his family. He did allow Thranduil to comfort him in his chambers, but he quickly wanted to get away. I like the way you let us ride along on the roller coaster of his swinging emotions. The scene where he went to see Galelas was also nicely done. These two hardheaded elves are making small steps toward understanding one another. Legolas also got a glimpse into Galelas's family. Nothing like seeing how bad some other people have it to appreciate how good you have it. Have I mentioned how much I love Beliond lately? He's straight to the point, isn't he? "Get your gear. We are going camping." No hello, no kiss my foot, just get moving. But he was right that what Legolas needed was some quiet time. And he gave it to him. He's a softy for a tough old bird. And he's quite wise. From personal experience. I was also glad to see Annael. He's a good friend and his mother certainly did have a good understanding of what Legolas was suffering at this point. Sweet Elowen. It was good for Legolas to see people who had experienced what he was going through and see that they had survived. Of course, the best example was Adar. The talk in the garden was perfect. Not too long and full of spoken and unspoken wisdom. Legolas's sudden memory of his mother was comforting. I'm sure if Lorellin has any 'Elven magic' at her disposal, she's doing all she can from wherever she is. The scene was a lovely exchange between a father and his 'adult' son. I liked the way Thranduil related so honestly with Legolas during this talk. I know you nearly went nuts writing so much angst and from writing only from Legolas's perspective, but I have to say that you did an amazing job. This is such a good story. Full of everything that makes a story good. I bet you're exhausted, but I'm already looking forward to the next story. Great, great story, daw. Karen

Yanic · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

That was such a beautiful story that I didn't want it to ever end (but I know you need a break). And that last chapter was awesome. I esecially liked the bonding time with Beliond and Beliond's advice to take joy in what you can. I thought that was fitting for Book-Legolas, reminded me of when Legolas goes off to find the sun :) That was truly an amazing story, one of my favorites actually. Can't wait to see what oyu come up with next, because your stories seem to get better and better!

esamen · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

Thranduil turned to face him again. “Loss can break us, Legolas, or it can make us stronger, more compassionate, more aware of what is important and what is simply trivia. I know how strong a person you are. I have faith that you will weather this well and be happy again." What a beautiful ending. It's a great chapter. I especially liked the touch about Legolas visiting the dead warrior's mother and understanding her better. Suffering a loss brings costly maturity . . . it does bring us hard-earned wisdom and compassion . . . but at such a price. This chapter really crystallizes these truths in a beautifully written, show-don't-tell way. Sharing our writing is such a rich learning experience. I think that many of us will be more understanding people because of reading this story. Thanks for being brave enough to write it. Esamen

Nilmandra · 24 April 2005 · Chapter 11: Healing

I like the way the threads of this story have wrapped up, with Legolas's new appreciation and closeness to his father, and the empathy he can feel with Elowen and Naran's parents, who have suffered grief that he can understand all too well. I did like Beliond taking him out and showing him how he copes with loss as well - Legolas did find comfort in the forest, which makes sense based on who he is as well as just being away from people who want to talk. I like the detail about him not eating too - that is very reminscent of your little Legolas being hand fed in his father's arms as a grieving little elfing. I do think these experiences will lead to a greater compassion and understanding in your Legolas. And hey, you never have to write another romance now!

tauvesa · 22 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

As always, I just can't help myself when it comes to your stories. I check the web site at least 4x a day for updates. When there isn't one, I just re-read another of your stories. You write them so well it feels like I'm watching an episode of LOTR TV or something. Your stories feel so completely plausible (for life as an elf) that I am reminded of when I first read The Vampire Chronicles by Anne Rice. She created such a rich and wonderfully real world for her characters that you lost yourself in the story and could picture yourself there. I totally agree that Legolas did not seem like a married elf. And even though I admit I am a fan of letting Legolas suffer slightly, I found myself actually looking forward to how you would write it if he did bond (even though I knew in my heart that wasn't going to happen). Also, I can totally see Legolas, because of the way you have crafted his story -- and that of his family -- giving his heart on a love-at-first-site basis. Once again, you have enriched my world with your stories. THANK YOU.

esamen · 22 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

"Eliviel looked at him with anguish in her face, and Legolas knew how she felt. The body in the other room was the only tangible part of Tuilinn they had remaining to them. The funeral would make her absence complete." Mmmm. This is so true. I always feel that when the casket goes into the grave, that's when the loved one is really, finally, completely gone . . . until then, the person still seems with us, somehow. This chapter was tenderly and beautifully written. Thank goodness for Thranduil. What a timely arrival (and what a cliffhanger, too). Did Eilian arrive a few days ago and send him to Legolas? And you know what . . . I would love some more visual descriptions of Thranduil. As I read through your stories I catch glimpses of him, and he seems to change from time to time. How do you visualize him now? In fact, how do you visualize Legolas now? As in the films, or do you see him differently here than he appeared on the Quest? Wonderful chapter and I can't wait for the next one.

esamen · 22 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

Hello daw and congratulations on a fabulous chapter. This one is so deep that I've read it three times now. Different things jump out on different readings . . . Sinnarn's character showing up as he is given responsibility; Nithron giving Beliond the long slow stare; Beliond giving a stare of his own to Eilian; Eilian and Beliond cooking up their plan together while our grieving-hero-in-denial tries to convince himself that he can just bounce right back: "Eilian and Beliond sat talking quietly together, and Legolas hoped Eilian was telling Beliond to leave him alone. He had no wish to listen to Beliond’s nagging for the three days it would take them to get Tuilinn home. While the others ate, he caught up his pack, walked to the stream and eased his left arm out of the sling long enough to splash water on his face and then struggle out of his filthy tunic and put on a clean one from his pack. There were bruises all along his arms where he had thrown them up to protect his head, but they seemed too trivial to worry about. I can do this, he thought and then " Really well crafted. There's a lot going on . . . grief, loss, unspoken messages, people growing up under pressure and people under pressure clinging to what maturity they've got. And Eilian is wonderful. What an awesome leader . . . instinctively showing up when he's needed, and taking care of his people with his own special touch that makes everyone feel safer around him. Are you sure that you still like Legolas best? Eilian grows more admirable in every new fic of yours. Come to think of it, Ithilden does too. Oh well. It's a happy dilema. This fanfic universe is populated with my very favorite men -- except for my own real-life men and my own AU men, of course :-) Thanks for a great read and happy typing always.

Ithildin · 21 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

I don’t know how you do it, but keep it up Daw! Those are three powerfully moving chapters. The silver ring was a surprising and very touching moment of the story for me. Beliond continues to be steadfast and brusquely caring and proves to be an immovable force when argued with. And then Thranduil arrives in his fabulous Elvenking way... Wow. I’m looking forward to Legolas making some steps toward healing now; I’m eagerly waiting to see how you will draw this tale to a close. I know you are limited by the singular POV, but I hope you can squeeze in a moment between Thranduil and dear Beliond (who needs some serious R&R himself) before you wrap this tale up and tie it with a green ribbon. Someday you will need to write Legolas’ eventual arrival in Eressëa and his reunion with Tuilinn, his naneth, Turgon, Galeas and more… And surely you will convince Thranduil and Ithilden and Eilian and their families to come too! And Beliond, of course – you will have a boatload of characters sailing West… Should be an interesting story – something happy to think about while you recover from this one. :) Ever looking forward to the next chapter, Ithildin *(

tigerlily713 · 20 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

Great chapter! I think it was good that Sinnarn was there in order to let Eilian know just how serious it was. It might not mean as much coming from any other member of the patrol. I can't wait for another chapter! Lily