Reviews (321)

Alice · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Oh. I'm just too sad for words now. That was, that was just such a wonderful chapter! Horribly, horribly sad though. Even though I knew it was coming it was still upsetting, and oh poor Legolas. I say that a lot when reviewing your stories, you know that? Wow. Just so much happened. That last line was very poignant by the way. " Let's go back to the forest." That's the best thing for them to do. It will make them feel better. Though I don't think Legolas is going to bounce back from this for a while. Alfirin should send him brownies. I liked that scene with Galelas. Someone should have told him that a long time ago. I think the fact that it came from Legolas, whom he knows doesn't like him all that much to begin with, was perhaps even better. Poor Galelas. Maybe you could give him some really supernice cousins since his immediate family is such a bunch of morons. Oh, and very nice work with Beliond by the way. I like how he just sort of took command. Which worked as all of them knew better than to challenge him. Boy Legolas sure did scare him though. That came through loud and clear. Nice touch. Another nice touch was the bit about the little boy. That's just too awful for words. He'll never know his real family and they'll never know what became of him(if they survived). Just a whole lot of tragedy worked into this one, compact chapter. Very impressive. I look forward to the next chapter where I think a letter from Eilian is overdue because gosh knows everyone's going to need cheering up. And gosh knows Sinnarn is going to sing like a canary to the rest of the family about Legolas's lost love. As he should.

caz-baz · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

oh my god! that is sooo sad. I just want to carry on reading. I knew that that must be whats coming but i really didn't want it too.

Effigy · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Mmm...I like elf angst. Is that so bad? I knew she was going to die. I so called that. It was a fairly confusing chapter though. At least about the cave in. I had no idea they were in a two story house. Then the roof caved in and they were seperated from the others. Confusing, but I could have just read wrong. And isn't it handy that Eilian is so close by? I sense possible brother-brother bonding coming up. I love bonding. ^_^ I like this chapter.

Small Triumphs · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Sorry about dropping another review, but I was rereading this chapter a third time (*sigh* that sounds a tad pathetic), and I was struck by something that hadn't impacted me the first time. Legolas, after he finally sheds his first tears, has the thought that was uppermost in his mind was, That poor little boy! He certainly is one who can relate to the loss of a parent- especially a mother! The poor elf has lost so many people in his life- Turgon, his mother, Annael's father who was like family to him... Also, we all know Legolas' tendacy to place the blame upon his own shoulders, but, if I recall correctly, he felt vivid guilt over Turgon's death and, at such a young age, his mother's. I wonder if now all of this grief and guilt accumulated not only from Tuilinn's, but also the deaths of those that were close to him, will somehow flood his senses at once. Poor boy, it's gotta be tough. But Beliond is with him, and he knows a thing or two about losing those you love, so hopefully he will aid Legolas. Again, all I can say is- Poor Legolas. Anxiously awaiting your next chapter! ~Small Triumphs (again)

thechevin · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

This was a very hard chapter to read and I suspect very difficult to write of course the fact that it was so hard is a testament to the powerful emotions your words evoked. Anyone who has experienced sudden unexpected death of a loved one will recognise the strange half world that Legolas found himself in, where everything else moves on but you stand still in shock and disbelief, grieving is not something that happens immediately it will take time. The call of duty is the only thing that kept Legolas anchored I think and thank goodness for Beliond who ensured he kept his charge with him and did not let him slip away to follow Tuilinn. So Galelas is jealous of the love and strength of family Thranduil has instilled in his sons that seems reasonable enough given his own upbringing I hope this tragedy will lead to an easier relationship with the royal family for him. As for Legolas he needs his Adar, very badly. There at least is one member of his close family who will understand the true sense of devastation and the little boy at the end well I think his loss was a mirror for Legolas and his thoughts while on the human child were really for himself, not in a selfish way but he once again is a little boy who has lost something very dear to him and is essentially alone with his grief Wonderful writing

Yanic · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Why isn't he grieving for Tuilinn? Is he in shock? Excellent chapter, I really felt that you captured Legolas's confused state and I'm very glad to see that Beliond is ok. Loved this line: "Irritably, he wondered what Beliond wanted. Surely he must know that Legolas had an unexpected situation to deal with." I found it very amusing. And your description of Tuilinn was amazing, it was so touching I don't even know how to describe it but that simple paragraph was very moving. Thanks for updating so quickly, I can't wait to see what happens next!

Brazgirl · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Snif. I don't know how but I just knew you would kill her. How could you!!! She was so nice! She made Legolas feel love! Snif. :-( I am still upset. Though I like Galelas in this chapter. Poor guy! He is badly hurt and apparently will have to be tended by his 'pupil'. Funny thought! And, of course, it's always a pleasure to see Beliond in action and acting as the captain he is. I wonder how he will deal with Legolas from now on... And they better get out of that city! I don't want to see more dead elves!!!! Oh! I just remembered of Legolas' inocent thoughts about his future life with Tuilinn... that was so sad! That was so sad... But I believe the poor soul will recover, but let's face it: he has no lucky in keeping women in his life!

sofia · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Oh! that was incredibly sad! I just new something like that was going to happen. First Beliond had to watch out for a love-struck Legolas, now he has to watch out for a heart-broken Legolas. The whole chapter was beautifully written. Can't wait for more. -sofia

Alison H · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

What a heartbreaking chapter, Daw! I had a feeling that Tuillin was not destined to survive.Legolas' feelings after discovering that her spirit had left her body were so beautifully written that I was floored.That Legolas kept trying to find her spirit had me reaching for the tissues--but he will see her again and he must take some comfort in that. How I do love Beliond! His hysterics when Legolas does not answer him had me smiling because Legolas needs Beliond right now to care for him.Their relationship is just wonderful. I'm glad that Eilian may be arriving soon because Legolas needs him more than ever. Poor Legolas! Take care and update soon! Ali.

lwarren · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

I just wanted to drop a short review, daw, and tell you how extremely exact your interpretation of Legolas'reactions/feelings are when he realizes Tuilinn is dead. The word "numb" is perfect - and in the case of a sudden, unexpected death, it is almost impossible to react; everything takes on a kind of dreamlike quality -but it's not a good dream. I can honestly say that tears don't come right away...but will erupt at odd times at the oddest provocations, for a long time afterwards. I found myself thinking that Beliond should get everyone to safety first, then take Legolas and make tracks for the palace. Legolas needs his Adar right now...that drifting feeling he has and the fact he is searching for her presence in his mind is unsettling. I read in a reply where you felt depressed after writing this...gee, I wonder why? Very strong chapter! linda

Bodkin · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

This is just heart-rending. I hope Eilian comes rushing to the emotional rescue. And that Legolas is able to go home to an understandng Adar. (Unlike poor Galelas. Who will find that a) Tinar would have jumped out from the falling building and not been injured because his reflexes are so good, or b) Tinar has been so much more severely injured (by having his nose put out of joint), and he didn't make so much fuss. Going home here is not the best thing for Galelas and it will probably undo all the progress he and Legolas have made.) I must go now and read about that other poor little boy who lost his naneth.

Jay of Lasgalen · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

I was thinking about this chapter last night as I went to sleep (how sad is that??) I know Legolas will be surrounded by love, care and support from his family when he returns home. But if poor Galelas had suffered the same sort of loss, he'd be told to pull himself together, and be thankful it wasn't Tinár! Jay

White Wolf · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

I felt so bad for Legolas during this whole chapter. How incredibly sad. I had the feeling, considering the way things were going between Legolas and Tuillinn that she was doomed. You didn't write about them together in your two stories taking place after this one, and I didn't think they would just end up parting ways. Poor baby. He is in for some real heartache ahead.

Nilmandra · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Poor Legolas, poor Galelas and poor Tuilinn. Tuilinn served the purpose well, though, and definitely gives Legolas something to look forward to in Aman. I am looking forward to Legolas returning home, though... I think he and his adar will have an even better understanding of each other now.

The Karenator · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Daw, I'm nearly speechless. This was such a beautifully done chapter. The whole quality of it was just as Legolas said--like being in a bad dream you cannot wake from. He was so stunned that even his grief seemed to well up from places unknown to him. And he behaved like a person in such shock that he was simply functioning...slow and disoriented, like he was wading through a space so viscous that placing one thought or one emotion together coherently was not possible. He cried but wasn't really aware of it. He was in pain from his wounds but didn't really notice. I've seen people like this and you did an excellent job of capturing the disconnect that people suffer when delivered a terrible blow. The only thing that kept him grounded at that moment was Galelas's needs. Some of what he did was automatic and some of it from somewhere in his heart. I imagine he'll remember little of the conversation he had with Galelas. Hopefully, Galelas will remember enough of what happened to see that Legolas is not the appropriate target for his discontent. He was not in very good shape either. Beliond was frantic, but tender when he realized that Tuilinn was dead. He will truly go into caregiver mode now. And Legolas will need him until he's returned to his family. I don't know about Legolas, but I sure do need Thranduil right now. There are no stronger or more secure arms that Adar's right now. I'm sure it will take Thranduil a bit to understand the depth of Legolas's loss--after all, he knows nothing about this maiden--but he will certainly be able to relate to it. I'm sure Beliond will report to the king that this new found love was the most serious his youngest son had experienced and how devastating Tuilinn's loss is for Leglas. And Sinnarn came through as a serious warrior doing his job admirably. I think the depth of Legolas's despair and shock was evident in the last scene when he watched Fyndil remove her body and as tears rolled down his cheeks, his thoughts were focused on a little boy separated from his family. I sure Legolas could relate to that at that moment too. I'm so depressed now that Daeron might have to take some time to mourn before he can get back on his feet. This chapter was moving and written like a poem of profound sorrow. Oh my...I have to go get another Kleenex. And we all need to get back to the forest soon. Don't leave us hanging for long. Karen

Manderly · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

That was heartbreaking, but I am not surprised at Tuilinn's demise. Somehow I just knew that you did not intend for her and Legolas to continue whatever that they had. Poor Legolas! To have his first love taken away like that. That was superbly done by the way. I felt as though I was in a fog with Legolas throughout that chapter. Everything was at a distance, including the emotions. What Galelas said about his family not caring was pretty wrenching too. I am glad that Legolas said what he did to Galelas. It did nothing to lessen his own pain of losing Tuilinn, but at least Galelas has a better idea now of his own worth to those who really count. Says alot about Legolas' character too. Thranduil has raised one fine son. I just love Beliond - forever the sturdy rock in Legolas' life.

French Pony · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Well, so much for Tuilinn. I am glad that you showed some mercy on her, though --an instantaneous death from being crunched rather than catching fire, which would be long and painful not only for her, but for Legolas and probably all the viewers at home as well. So long, Tuilinn. You will be missed. You did a nice job of portraying the shock and disorientation of the building collapse. Beliond, of course, is hysterical with worry, and he's probably hurt as well. Legolas gets that one-two physical and emotional punch and just falls back on his training as the only thing that keeps him on his feet and moving forward in space and time, struggling to accept reality. And Galelas! Here he is, in a uniquely vulnerable position, and suddenly Legolas, whom he doesn't like, is saying nice things to him and taking care of him. It occurs to me that Galelas is probably supremely unused to being taken care of. He's a competent warrior, so I bet he doesn't get hurt all that often. And when he does get hurt, he gets packed off to his parents, who may or may not notice his presence. But here he is with the King's son fussing over him and telling him what a good warrior he is, and that his hero Eilian prefers him to Tinár, and then Vanduil carries him out of the rubble as gently as he can -- this whole being-taken-care-of thing is probably really new to Galelas. And it's probably even more disorienting than his injuries. I think he was jealous of Legolas when Tuilinn came along, and now he'll be spared the horrible crushing grief that will lay Legolas out flat for a few days. This whole adventure will probably give him cause to step back and take a look at himself and his situation. It may even turn him into the sort of person who might take a metaphorical bullet for Legolas come the Battle of Five Armies. Galelas is turning into a very interesting person in this story. For me, he's far more interesting than Tuilinn -- she was doomed from the get-go, but there's plenty of time to spend hanging out with Galelas and watch his character develop. It seems that it's not a good idea to be a loved woman in Legolas's life. So far, there are four. Nana got eaten by Orcs. Miriwen got seduced by Eilian. Synia got dumped. And Tuilinn got squished. Three out of four is not good odds here. I'll settle for just being friends. Far as I know, Alfirin, Celuwen and Annael's wife and mother are just fine. Elorfin is just going to have kittens over this. And so will Thranduil and Ithilden. They posted Legolas there to help him recover his sanity check, didn't they? Kid brings his own bad luck with him, it seems. He'll need the proverbial vacation to recover from his vacation.

LOTR lover · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Remember in my last review I said "You know I'm waiting with bated breath for the next chapter, don't you?" Well, all my expectations were met, and more. Poor Legolas and poor Tuilinn. Poor Galelas. And thank the Valar for Beliond, who probably needs leave now almost as much as Legolas does! Legolas's actions and feelings are spot on here, daw. Writing this whole chapter from his POV was a brilliant move on your part, because showing his actions and emotions dulled as they were was a thousand times better than saying "he felt this or that." And when he kept trying to reach her but couldn't and then drifted off into imagining what their life might have been together--well, it's a good thing he had the responsibility of helping Galelas and of reassuring Beliond that he was still alive, or the patrol would have carried two bodies back to Mirkwood. At least he can look forward to seeing her again in Aman. Judy

Brenda G. · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Well, add my tears to the rest that have reviewed so far. I knew Tuilinn was curtains, but I just didn't know how you would handle her exit. I'm glad her face was peaceful and serene, not crushed along with the back of her head, when Legolas found her. At least Legolas' last look at her would not be any more nightmarish than it already was. Since He and Tuilinn were "bonded" in spirit, I thought it was strange that Legolas didn't notice at once that his link to her had been broken. Maybe his own body was reeling from shock and injury and the confusion that must invariably follow being victim to a cave-in. It was very sad to me that once he did discover her body, that he could no longer "feel" her. You handled his reaction very realistically, I thought. The dazed numbness and lack of outpouring of wild grief is a common occurrence for the bereaved, especially when the death of someone they love is so sudden and unexpected. Maybe Legolas will see Tuilinn again in Valinor some day. Isn't there a chance she will be reincarnated and sent back to Arda in a similar or different form? Maybe they could meet again, but the romance perhaps not quite play out as it would have this time had Tuilinn lived. I don't think I dreamed up the reincarnated thing, or did I? Isn't that what happened to Glorfindel? The part where Legolas projects to the future about the life he and Tuilinn might have shared together - she finally in his bed and holding their child in her arms. That's what finally got the waterworks going for me. It's those "might have beens" that can really get you where you live (and die) at times. Legolas will always mourn Tuilinn. His first real love, lost love, and now his forever love. It is indeed time to go home to the Forest for healing. I'm wondering already how Thranduil will react. Having lost his own love himself, he alone out of the royal family will be able to relate. Poor Legolas. :( Beliond was the tether to keep Legolas from drifting away. He was in so many ways, the anchor for all of us in this chapter. Thank the Valar for him! I'm glad that Sinnarn and the others escaped unharmed, and like Legolas, how sad for the small boy without a mother! He and Legolas have shared experiences, don't they? The exchange between Legolas and Galeas was very good. My heart went out to both of them, and I just hope that Galeas remembers at least the important parts of their conversation. This was well done. This entire story has been very well done. I meant to review last chapter, but I think I was in as much shock as citizens of the Dale - too dazed by all the horror to even react, but I must say, I could taste the ash, feel the heat, hear the screams as I read that chapter. Gave me a good case of the willies! First rate writing, Daw. Looking forward (as always) to the next chapter.

Frodo3791 · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

I don't know if that was a shorter chapter or if I just read really quickly, but it ended way too fast for me. I knew Tuilinn was going to meet her end, but that's an incredibly sad way to have it done... poor Legolas having to find her body and all and be the one to announce that she is dead. I'm confused about Legolas' grief, though, and I'm sure you probably meant it to be so. I'm guessing the next chapter will explain it, so I hope to see the next chapter soon... not that you don't update quickly anyway, but I'd love to read more ASAP. Your stories are always a pleasure to read, and I am really enjoying this all Legolas point of view story. -Micah

Small Triumphs · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Oh, man. I had this gut-wrenching feeling it wouldn't end well, but there was always that slim amount of hope that it would all be okay... So much for that. First of all, the point of view and perspective of Legolas in this chapter was absolutely amazing and realistic. I loved how his whole perspective of what was going on was a sort of detatched bemusement and overall numbness that made the scene so believable. His stream of consciousness allowed us to see everything unfold in the same confusion and horror as he witnessed it. I am not weeping, Legolas thought dully. Why is that? Great line! I've definately had that feeling where I should be having a certain reaction, I should be feeling this, but am just too numb or distant to do anything more than think it. It was satisfying to see that you didn't just express the emotion as "Legolas felt this" or "He felt that." You showed us his turmoil and grief and emotion by showing us through his slow actions, numbness, and train of thoughts- something extremely difficult to do (for me, at least.) Poor Legolas. The poor boy has been through so much in his life! It really makes you wonder just what else has to happen before he finally hits his breaking point. And knowing Legolas, he's probably going to assume the guilt. He's definately gonna need some family love here. At least Sinnarn and Beliond are there with him. And three cheers for Beliond while we're at it! Good Lord, he must have been having a panic attack throughout this whole thing! I wonder just how frantic he must have been while waiting for Legolas to first answer his calls. And while he feels for Legolas and certainly liked Tuilinn, I bet he just can't help but think how it might've been Legolas dead amoung the rocks. I also loved how he really stepped into the command in place of the grieving and mournful Legolas. Great chapter! Wonderful! ~Small Triumphs

elliska · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Well, I knew that this chapter would be incredibly sad and it was. You did a really nasty job describing the building falling in around them. As usual, I loved Beliond. Poor elf almost lost it, I think. And I loved the interaction between Legolas and Galelas--he so needed to hear how Eilian and Ithilden value him (I just hope he remembers it later). But you really did too good of a job capturing Legolas's emotions. The way the world feels distant and all too real at the same time. Wow, that was really hard to read. He stared at her, and the sounds of stones being moved faded from his consciousness, and his world narrowed to her.... I won't put the whole thing here because its too much of a spoiler but holy cow that was sad! And this too: And to his surprise, the thought that was uppermost in his mind was, That poor little boy! Geez, Daw. This was a real tearjerker. I don't see how you wrote it. I would have been bawling as I typed. Hurry with the next chapter!

meckinock · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Daw, you're the only person I know who can discuss the mating habits of Yemeni spiders and write tear-jerk romantic tragedy at the same time. Although the Yemeni spiders' romances ended somewhat tragically also, if I recall. OK, first I have to tell you that I scared the dog when I read the line about Sauron's anatomy. Gotta love that Beliond! On second thought, have him bring over the Dorwinion. Legolas's POV in this chapter was just masterful. The physical and emotional shock broke his perceptions into a kind of series of freeze-frames. He was staggering from one thought to the next, one perception to the next, but in a very fragmented way. It was very powerful. Especially since Galelas was even more confused than he was! The only rational constant seemed to be Beliond. If I'm ever buried under a building, that's the guy I want digging me out! The heart-to-heart between Legolas and Galelas was great. A very honest exchange. It was a perfect moment for them to open up to each other without being artificially sappy. Galelas has a lot of baggage and he's not going to unload it all in one sitting. It's very sad that he still envies Legolas Eilian's attention years ago. The grudging expression of sympathy was a place to start, though. And Tuilinn. It was touching when Legolas felt himself drifting, as if trying to follow her where she had gone. His thoughts of the future that was now lost were heartbreaking. There were some very realistic and poignant moments there, like when Legolas tried to protect her body from the falling stones. Don't take this the wrong way, but this was a deeply satisfying chapter because the emotions were all raw and honest.

sayre · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and go good with ketchup.... Poor Tuillin and poor Legolas. What a way to celebrate a reunion :(

Jay of Lasgalen · 9 April 2005 · Chapter 8: Caught in the Ruins

Oh, God. I knew this was going to be sad :( Poor Legolas. Poor Tuilinn. And poor Galelas, too. His observation that of course his family would not be there as long as Tinár was safe was so sad - but so true. He needs to be told - many times - that he is so much better than his brother. He might just believe it. Beliond must have been beside himself when the house collapsed, beacause it could so easily have been Legolas, not Tuilinn who was killed. But poor Legolas. His dazed incomprehension was tragic. He may be the captain, but he is in no fit state to lead the others just now. I look forward - if that's the right phrase - to what happens next. Jay :(