Reviews (321)

perelleth · 19 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

May I say that I deeply sympathize with Legolas, but, above all, with you? Being in his head has to be truly difficult! we have had three chapters on a row of that numbing feeling, and four days have passed and she's not yet buried... that's devastating and exhausting. It was wonderfully done, anyway, I liked Beliond's support, the ring detail was simply perfect, and yes, how right Eilian was, Legolas does have a problem eating when he's upset.. or should I say distraught? "He would weep for Tuilinn. He would weep for himself" To me, this is the key. I was having a bit of trouble with Legolas' behaviour. Please, understand me, I do believe it's been greatly done, his pov is amazingly constructed to convey the dizziness and disorientation and I was simply having trouble with him, not with the way you're portraying him. I feel that, understandable as his grief is, it has, too, that quality of self-pity that's preventing him from coming our from the fog. It is HIS shattered dream, I think, and the "might have beens" that he is mourning too, and that little sentence made it clear for me. He does need to go home, I think, and he does need to get a hold of himself. I think his Atar will be the best for him here. I'm not sure that I've made myself clear, so let me tell you again that it was wonderfully done, and that I'm looking forward to seeing him -and you- coming out from this pit! ;-)

Jay of Lasgalen · 19 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

Thank you for writing about Tuilinn's family - I know you didn't plan to originally. It must have been odd for Legolas - four days further on in the grieving process - to see how he had been. I'm glad they realised what he and Tuilinn meant to one another - and especially that he took part in the funeral. The silver ring was a very nice, poignant touch. Beliond is wonderful again - and Legolas certainly isn't fit for command if he didn't even know which way they were going! I was delighted to see Thranduil at the end. Legolas needs him - and now he knows it. Jay

Bodkin · 19 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

This is so powerful. Such emotional writing, yet understated enough to wrench at the heart. I think doing it from Legolas's point of view really enhances the whole experience - grief is so bound up with numbness and confusion and, come to that, irritation and unexpectedly snapping at people interspersed with sudden flows of emotion. I'm so glad that Eliviel and Nildur recognised Legolas and knew that Tuilinn had been hoping that he would come - and that Nildur overcame his annoyance at the eleven year wait so quickly. And I think a little chat with Fyndil later will help - as they see how euphoric Tuilinn was in her last days. (And I'm so glad she ran back and kissed him.) I'm relieved that they recognised the depth of Legolas's emotion even in their own distress and involved him as 'family' - it will help him. (I dread to think what excluding him and just having him there as a representative of the king would have had on him.) And I'm so touched by Beliond's forethought at obtaining the silver ring. (I wonder where Fyndil got it.) It's no wonder Legolas has no romantic entanglements over the next few centuries - he is betrothed. And Adar knew. Not only that Legolas needed to come home, but where he would be. He knew he could count on Beliond to drag the boy back to the Stronghold, so had little difficulty in intercepting them. And, apart from the extra bond between them caused by his having been Legolas's only parent for so much of his life, here is another bond they share that cannot really be understood (except intellectually) by Eilian and Ithilden. I hope Legolas goes back to spend time with Tuilinn's parents - they will probably need him, and it's the only way he can try to nurture the bond they had begun to share and learn more about the girl he knew at first sight. There are so many things to mention - the discordance in the song, seeking comfort from the trees, the inability to eat or drink, Beliond's care - and ruthless drugging of tea, the desire not to step back because that would make it true, the desire of the bereaved to provide food, oh - all of it really. It's just a wonderful writing of a really sad story. Don't finish it too quickly, please. This is a situation that can't be neatly tied up with a bow in a single chapter. (It possibly needs an epilogue, too. Not necessarily in Valinor for the hopefully ultimate happy ending, but certainly some years later to reassure the reader that Legolas has regained some balance.)

Firnsarnien · 18 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

Ai, at long last, he seems to have reached the end of his rope. Too long without food and too much grief is finally catching up with our dear Elf! *sigh* Not that I mind of course. ;) Heh, heh! What a sad scene that funeral was and I sure felt sorry for Leggy. He loved her yet he felt like an outsider amongst her family. Indeed he was in a way, yet I'm glad they made him feel a part of them and let him grieve with them. Can't wait to see what happens next and how Thranduil handles his grieving son. ;)

emjo · 18 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

Oh and I thought the last chapter was sad! Seeing the Tuilinn's parents and Legolas interact was heartbreaking. And the ring on the Tuilinn's body I just couldn't hold back the tears. I know it's been said a million times but thank goodness for Beliond! And I was so happy when Thranduil came in the picture Legolas isn't the only one who needs him. I do too! Thank you for posting so quickly and please hurry with the next one too!

Small Triumphs · 18 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

Yay for the quick update! But ouch, daw. This angst is killing me (in a good way, of course.) :-) Sorry if this review doesn't make much sense, I have to leave for some errands in a few minutes, but after reading that, I just had to take time just to say how much I loved it. I have to say that I loved the parallelism with the beginning regarding bringing the dead elf home, particularly when Ithilden spoke of Naran's parents wanting to know whether or not their child suffered in death and Beliond's line to Tuilinn's parents. That was a nice touch. So poor Legolas' appetite hasn't improved much, and I doubt it will for a while. And his shoulder is healing slowly, due to his grief, I'm guessing? Thank goodness for Beliond! He is such a good keeper. Thranduil certainly must be thankful he assigned him! I think the part that got to me the most was when Legolas placed the ring on her body. Gah! I actually sobbed out loud. Trust me when I say that for me, that is a very unusual thing! Not only is he mourning his love, but also a love that never even had a chance to truly grow! At least he is finally allowing himself to grieve. That is a good sign, right? And now Thranduil is here to help him along! Legolas really does need his Ada right now, and I'm sure Ada has no problem doing anything he can to help him. For some reason, I'm not surprised that Thranduil was riding out to meet them. I'll bet if he would've known about the situation sooner, he would have ridden all the way to the village, to the dragon-ridden Dale if he had to to reach Legolas. What a good Ada. His similar experience should help to get his son through. Though something that has occurred to me is that at least with Lorellin's (sp?) death, Thranduil got to slay the orcs that had taken her life- and I'm sure he enjoyed it, too. But the dragon is not going to be destroyed for a number of year ( I am no Tolkien scholar,so i have no idea when it happens.) I'll bet Legolas felt a certain amount of satisfaction and closure to hear that the dragon was killed before the Battle of the Five Armies, but for now, he'll have to find other ways to deal with his grief. Ack! I told myself to make this short. Now I'm late! It was well worth it, though. Fabulous job. ~Small Triumphs

The Karenator · 18 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

I think this was the saddest chapter of all. Legolas is so grief stricken that he's barely functional, but he's putting one foot in front of the other. With Beliond's help. And who better to understand his deep pain? Tuilinn's parents were just heartbreaking. I was glad to see that Legolas had the chance to tell them how much Tuilinn meant to him. The silver ring was a sweet touch and I'd say that for Legolas, it was a binding pledge. Gee, I hope she was waiting on the shores of Aman when he arrived. Surely she was. Namo must have taken pity on them by then. The funeral was hard, but you handled it well. It was touching to see Tuilinn's parents accept Legolas as important in her life and include him. The fact that Legolas didn't even know where he was in the woods spoke of his grief. But boy was I glad to hear that Beliond was taking him home. He wasn't capable of functioning at that point as a warrior. And I got all teary eyed when Adar showed up. I knew Thranduil would go for him, or I hoped he would anyway. Healing won't be easy, but it'll be more manageable with family. Poor Legolas. Great chapter, daw. Karen

Frodo3791 · 18 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

I was really happy when I saw that you had updated tonight. I always am excited to read your stuff, but I have been really itching for these quick updates of chapters in this story. I love angst, and you are doing a great job of portraying Legolas' mood, in my opinion. I was just at a funeral today of a fellow classmate's father, and so I could understand the overall mood that this chapter is taking place in. Now we need to see Thranduil take care of business. -Micah

Elena Tiriel · 18 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

Daw, I was almost emotionally recovered enough from the last chapter to leave you a review, but when I got to SoA, you must have just posted your new one. I tend to think that, if a story makes me tear up once or twice, or even shed a couple tears, that it is very emotional. I cried through this whole chapter. And I don't mean sitting there weeping, but out-and-out sobbing. You've encapsulated the grief of every single person in this world who has ever lost a loved one -- and that means almost every one of us. I can't write any more right now. - Barbara

Nilmandra · 18 April 2005 · Chapter 10: In Tuilinn's Village

I think Legolas is numb at this point, unable to communicate well, and holding on be a thread. I am glad that Tuilinn's parents recognized what was between them - the king's son doesn't often carry home the body of an elleth, as devastated as Legolas is, unless there is good reason for it. I liked what you did with the ring too...the significance of what he did is great. I know you're hating all this wallowing in grief and sorrow, but you're doing well with it and you're almost done!

caz-baz · 18 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

I'm really embarrassed, when I finished reading this I looked down at the floor and there was a big wet patch. I was trying to hold it all together but when I got to the part where Legolas dreams of Tuilinn I couldn't hold it in any longer, your writing just puts it so beautifully and is so addictive. I'm so glad I was on my own when I read this - note to self read Daws stories on your own at 11 at night in future as to save yourself from future embarrassement. I think Legolas really needed Eilian as he's one of the only people Legolas truly opens up too. Beliond would listen and be comforting but I think Legolas would find it hard to open up to him as Beliond himself cant truly open up to anyone. Caz-Baz

Brenda G. · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

Wow...that was one great chapter. Wow. There is not anything I can think of to add to or take from this last chapter to make it any more perfect than it was. Legolas is definitely cut from the same cloth of his Adar. Tough indeed. Still, I was very relieved to see Eiian make his most timely appearance. Nothing like having the brother who dotes on you most nearby when you need a strong shoulder to lean on. Beliond's would have done as well, but family makes all the difference during difficult times like this. Lorellin's appearnce was also very apt, I thought. And Beliond is right, Legolas will see Tuilinn again. But now how to face Tuilinn's parents? How to tell them what Legolas himself can barely grapple with? Her mother's reaction would no doubt mirror most in the same or similar set of circumstances. There can be no doubt to Tuilinn's mother at least that Legolas was much more than just the bearer of bad tidings by the snap of his control when faced with the enormity of Tuilinn's loss. Sometimes our grief is so much the more amplified by the bereavement of others, and the thin veneer of control Legolas has achieved was just waiting to be punched through. The wail of Tuilinn's mother was the straw that definitely broke this camel's back. Our poor, sad Greenleaf. It may be a long time before Legolas will be himself again, but then, that is as it should be in matters of heartbreak. Enthralling stuff, Daw. You are certainly a master at story-telling. Looking forward to the next chapter. I know it will be a tough one to write, but you will do it for us adoring fans, won't you? BG

moonshine44 · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

Hey Daw! FF.N isn`t showing chapter 9 for some reason, so I`m reviewing here. This chapter was very well written. I was glad to see that even though there was so much emtion, it wasn`t overdone. It also seemed to have kept a good pace with the story. Loved this chapter, and until the next, bye!

meckinock · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

I've gotten to the point that I can't judge it at all. I was worried that this chapter was both sappy and boring. Geez, no. The first draft of my review actually said something about how amazed I was that you could convey this much grief and shock without being sappy. Then I reminded myself that you shouldn't give praise using a negative! I'm also busy scribbling notes. On a couple of things. First lesson is to not avoid the POV of the character who's most directly affected emotionally. The second is how to show what he's experiencing without having him sit there and explain, "I felt this and then I felt that." Thanks, professor!

meckinock · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

Sheesh, Daw, no wonder you have writer's block now. I'm exhausted. Actually I read this last night and knew I was too exhausted to coherently review, and I try to only leave incoherent reviews for Karen :-). I know using Legolas's POV has been draining for you to write, but wow. This is amazingly powerful and realistic. Legolas is still mostly numb from shock, still missing on a couple of cylinders (I loved this line: "He seemed to have forgotten how to say anything that mattered,") but he's struggling so hard to reassert himself. It was really sweet how he kept reminding himself he was in charge even as Beliond is running around giving the troops their orders. This was another great line: "I should be doing that, Legolas thought. He leaned his head against the tree. I will get up and do it soon." The comfort he got from the tree was lovely. He seemed to be able to accept the tree's comfort more easily than that offered by his comrades. I liked how Beliond was running along beside Legolas in the beginning, just waiting for him to falter, and the instant he did, took charge. It was touching when Beliond told him they would see their loved ones again. All the troops seem to want to help Legolas (well, except for maybe Galelas, but at least he's being civil), but I was never so happy as when Eilian came striding out of the woods. Eilian was so great. First, all Captain in Charge, and then instantly the caring brother once it got through to him that Legolas was personally affected. Legolas just needed to be held, and I'm glad Eilian was there to do it. Legolas considered telling Eilian that he did not need to be tended like an elfling but decided he did not want to. Good call, Legolas. But I also liked how Eilian seemed to recognize the next morning that Legolas needed to re-asset himself and not be coddled until he was ready. It must have been very hard for Eilian to leave him, but he seems to finally have come to grips with the fact that his baby brother is all grown up and has to deal with things in his own way. Beliond is not quiet so convinced, of course... The end of the chapter was very sad. I can't imagine a worse duty, even if he didn't know the girl. I think this is the worst of all possible situations. If he hadn't known the girl, he could have at least held up for her parents. If he had actually been betrothed and had met them before, they would at least understand why he's falling to pieces. But as it is, they're going through the worst moment of their lives and they'll be just as shocked and confused as Eilian was by Legolas's emotional reaction. Wow. I hope Beliond is still in take-charge mode.

Small Triumphs · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

What a wonderfully beautiful chapter, Daw! Poor Legolas is trying so hard not to break down. He really needs to realize that even though he may be the patrol's lieutenent, he doesn't have to be strong all the time. He's trying to avoid his grief through his duty, but I doubt Beliond will allow for this to go on for long, even if Legolas is mistakenly convinced he is "in control" here. Poor boy just wants everything to be back the way its supposed to and go back to his patrol as though nothing has changed. :( I suppose that just makes it all the more tragic. Perhaps another reason why he is hesitant to go back home is because he knows he will not have anything to distract his grief. And here comes Eilian! That elf never fails to impress, does he? I loved the way he treated Galelas, and even Vanduil! He always has been great with younger elves. He and Celuwen really need a kid! I can't imagine Eilian having to deal with an elfling as reckless as he was, though. Let's hope if it does happen, their child takes after their mother. I'm so glad big brother showed up, and Legolas really needed him. He was the only one to really get the "brat" to open up, even if it was only partially. But what a surprise for Eilian! To learn that little brother not only had found love, but that she has died and left him traumatized. That's a little much to take in all at once. What Legolas really needs is to allow the comfort those who care about him are offering. One part that really got to me was as they were preparing to depart, Eilian hugged him, but Legolas pulled away! He's so busy trying to control his grief that he's shutting out those he needs most. I really can't see him returning to his patrol right now, and definitely can't see Beliond allow that to happen! Beliond can only humor Legolas' "control" for so long, but there's no way Beliond is gonna drag his butt anywhere but home. Can't wait for your next chapter! ~Small Triumphs

The Karenator · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

Oh my. What a sad chapter. The excitement of the actual attack has died down and now Legolas and his companions are left to deal with the aftermath. Legolas is functioning, and he's beginning to take his place again among his patrol, but he's still moving like he's in a bad dream. His grief is tangible. Vanduil's suggestion that Legolas rest seemed to sort of snap him back to the present. Everything was out of kilter. At this point, we see Legolas slowly begin to start to sort through the fog. Duty begins to call him back. I really liked this. When someone has such a shock, the duty of the day often seems to be the only thing that grounds them. Putting one foot in front of the other. Fyndil's comments were welcome and they were painful. I could see the visions of what might have been flitting through Legolas's mind again. One of the good things to come out of this exchange was that Legolas got some answers as to why Tuilinn was where she was. And her behavior was so typical for her...caring for a child. That's reassuring and frustrating at the same time. I knew Legolas was going to feel guilty about where she was in the building since he was the one who shoved her to the corner, thinking she would be safe. I was also glad to see that he quickly tried to put his feelings about this into place, recalling Ithilden's words. Still, the weight of second guessing oneself in a situation like this is tough to shake. Beliond's kindness speaks highly of his affection for his charge. Even if he's a bit too overprotective, you can't fault the guy for wanting to see Legolas protected from any further harm. He means well. And he understands. Legolas needs someone to take over for a while to let him get back on his feet. Eilian showed up at the right time. I was as relieved as Legolas to see his older brother walk into camp. Even though Eilian was shocked to hear about Tuilinn, he quickly saw that this was no childish crush on Legolas's part and responded well. And poor Legolas heard as Beliond unwittingly summed up the destruction of his life and the life of the people of Erebor and Dale into two sentences. What Beliond said was accurate, but sure didn't convey the depth of loss being suffered. But Eilian is pretty astute and immediately saw that this had had personal repercussions for his little brother, he just wasn't quite sure what they were at that time. “So it is just as Grandfather has always said: You do have a talent for finding any trouble within a hundred leagues.” Sinnarn's got Uncle Eilian's number. But I'm sure that he was glad to see Eilian since his presence is reassuring and he's better equipped to aid Legolas. I like the dream part where Legolas saw Tuilinn and then the second person who leaned over Legolas wasn't her and I got the feeling that Lorellin was trying to offer her son comfort. Lorellin? As hard as it was for me to see Legolas not go home, he did the right thing. And it spoke highly of Eilian that he allowed Legolas to be an adult and make his own decision. But when Legolas took Tuilinn home, and saw Tuilinn's mother, oh my....it was too much for him. We all sunk into the depths of despair with him. Such a wonderful chapter, daw. It was packed with emotion and it was a clear study of your characters. Everyone had to show how they would react under such stress. You did this beautifully. I hate to say I loved it, because everyone was so raw and hurt and I felt bad for them, but I loved it. Karen

thechevin · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

I really do not know what to say about this chapter I am so overwhelmed by the sadness of it all The horror of loss, all that future promise torn away and still the son of Thranduil battles on, duty is very well ingrained in him and perhaps that is just as well since it helps him focus his mind on something tangible Thank goodness for Eilian he gives support and love in equal measure and the sort of comfort that Legolas must be desperate for even though he will not admit it. Also Beliond who is rock steady and determined Legolas may say he is in charge but I wouldn't put money on where he goes next That is of course if Adar doesn't come to him once he hears the story from Eilian This story is truly heartwrending, wonderfully powerful and poignant writing that brings the reader into the maelstrom of emotions that Legolas is battling presently thank you

sofia · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

That is so so sad! You were actually able to bring a few tears out of me. Good job. I don't really have much to say except that I love that you added Eilian into the story for a little bit. I think that was what Legolas needed, although he didn't want to admit it, some brotherly love. Can't wait for the next chapter!!! -sofia

Bodkin · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

PS 'And like water breaking through a dam made of sand, Legolas felt his control flow away, and he fell into the depths of her grief and his own.' This is an amazing last sentence.

perelleth · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

I like that you seem to be giving Legolas the chance of a healthy mourning. The blurr he's living in seems quite realistic to me, according to his character. I guess he'll have his bouts of denial and anger later on, as anyone in such situation has, but the fact that he did not react that way (with angry denial) from the very beginning tells a lot about how emotionally balanced he's become. He tries to hold on to duty after the first day, but knows that Eilian's warm embrace might undo his resolve. He carries Tuilinn's body home, and allows himself to drow into her mother's grief. He's not hiding from pain and that can only help him heal faster. It'll be hard but he's going to be fine. "Stop it! he scolded himself. You cannot know what would have happened" I think I can trace Thranduil's sound reasoning there, even if he then refers to Ithilden. I think he's learnt his mental processes straight from his father, he knows the truth, that he's not blame, and he's ready to accept that emotionally, he'll never be free from the pain and guilt, just like his fahter. "...so he could not see her face, and he reached to move it, but then stopped, with his hand hovering over her head" I found this very touching! he wants, but then.. wants not...I can understand that. Eilian's arrival was a blessing. I think that he's the one responsible for much of Legolas stance in the face of pain: he's always been the warm, nurturing, unconditional presence...He's simply great here, taking command when it is needed, finding the appropriate words, touchng and comforting, letting go without a word when he would be willing to pack his baby brother home with him...Thranduil should be proud of him. "A sweet, feminine face bent over him and smiled". He dreamt of his Nana!!!, didn't he? Oh, truly, that DID bring tears to my eyes. I fear you'll have to take extra time to answer msny long reviews, so I´ll stop here. Just make sure Ithilden gets word of how well Sinnarn is doing! Wonderful, daw, as always! Just hope you're not too down after this!

Bodkin · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

Meanwhile, back at the Stronghold, the Woodland King knows that all is not well with his youngest. He is seized with memories of his wife's death, when he was unsure whether he would be able to hold his son's spirit in Arda. Unexpectedly, his middle son arrives with an injured warrior and offers illumination, whereupon he springs to the stirrup and, followed closely by his guards,(Dirck and Joris), he gallops, they gallop, they gallop all three to Tuilinn's village. Who has the power to make Legolas go home? Who is better equipped than anyone to offer him some hope and consolation? Adar. That ending! Could it get more heart-rending? It's bad enough taking slain warriors back to their naneths, but arriving with the body of your one true love. And, without explanation, how are they to know that, standing before them is their once-and-future prospective son-in-law? And just who, at a time like this, can offer that kind of explanation? I hope their elven spidey-senses are tingling and they just know. The poor elfling is swinging from despair to numbness to ill-temper to duty so realistically. So often in the early stages the instinct is to carry on normally, as if nothing has changed - go back on patrol, take refuge in your role - but it's unsustainable. I'm not surprised Beliond is worried - and determined to get this son-of-his-heart back to where Ada can apply a patch to the wound. And Sinnarn can do it when it's needed. He doesn't want to wallow in responsibility, but it's in his blood and, when the call comes, he does it as naturally as walking. I like the way he can see more deeply into a plank of wood than he lets on, too. He knows that this unmentioned love was serious stuff (- and so does Fyndil). Thank goodness Eilian appeared when he did. His presence - and memories - and the reminder of despair shared and survived helped anchor Legolas. Even if he still can't get him to eat when he's upset. (Still he's bigger now. He can starve himself for longer before collapsing.) And Eilian was so great with Galelas and Sinnarn and just made things more comfortable just by being there. But the real star in keeping this group on the road has to be Beliond. It's a good thing that Legolas has built up such a good relationship with him - his love and sympathy and concern and gruff insistence are what have kept at least part of this heartbroken elf's feet on the ground. That and the trees. Oh dear. I'm wittering on far too much, although I know I've missed out lots of things I'd like to say. And I need to go and read it again. This is very powerful stuff. And it needs considerably more expansion. Please.

emjo · 17 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

Oh I am so sad. But I do love Beliond and big brother! I hope Legolas gets home quick he needs ada's support right now. Sorry this isn't much of a review but just know that as always I'm loving this story!

Rita · 16 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

I've been reading your stories for about two years and I've finally been compelled to leave a review. From the beginning of this story, or since you introduced Tuilinn into the story, I knew it couldn't end well. Although it was inevitable, you've managed to write such a powerful story that was able to reduce me to tears when you wrote of Legolas's grief. I think Legolas is due for an extended leave (like Eilian). Or maybe he should serve a stint in the Home Guard so his family could keep an eye on him. If I'm not mistaken, Legolas hasn't, as of yet, served in the Home Guard. I hope this means Beliniel and Elowen will finally leave him alone and stop trying to matchmake. I just want to express my appreciation for your writing. Although I've stopped reading LOTR fan fiction a while ago, I keep coming back to read yours. It's because your stories are so well written and entertaining. And I love that you're writing about so many different points in his life--it must be hard to keep all the facts and characters straight. It's nice when I get an urge read about Legolas as a novice, or skip to when he's a warrior. Thank you for your writing, Daw.

Nilmandra · 16 April 2005 · Chapter 9: Escape

Well, it made me cry again. I enjoyed reading it as a reader, and not as beta. I do think Legolas's disorientation came through well, as did everyone humoring his 'command', cause you know Beliond and Eilian were calling the shots. Beliond really has grown to care for Legolas. I noticed somewhere you said he was affectionate but not nurturing..I would say he actually is nurturing too. He is very much a rock, a strength that can be depended on..and while he is not Eilian, he has in his own gruff way helped to train, educate, and develop Legolas into the warrior we see. (yes, I am the president of the Beliond fan club, why do you ask?). I also loved the 'does Maltanaur know where you are?' line...not 'does your father..' but his keeper! Tells you what esteem Beliond holds the role of keeper.