Reviews (270)

The Karenator · 27 May 2005 · Chapter 7: Terror in the Woods

On my...this was such an intense chapter. Gollum is on his way back into the forest and the news of Dol Guldur isn't good. Really...not good. I was on the edge of my chair the entire time. Your descriptions of the south were just outstanding. I could visualize the area easily. The nervousness of Eilian and his party was also very intense. Combine what they found with Eilian's sense of the forest and he must have really been on pins and needles. The adults and Loriel were an interesting scene too. It was very well done as always, but the underlying current of discomfort was so strong that even I felt jumpy. Everyone, but Loriel, seemed to be fidgeting and trying quite hard to act normal. I'm not sure that she didn't sense something too, but that could just be me. So much for the chit-chat...Emmelin? Oh my...I was afraid this was going to happen. Loriel will be fine. Scared, but I knew with all the watchers she has...and her author...that she would be okay. If Annael's family is smart, they'll move as far away from you as possible. Perhaps, they'd like my Mirkwood better. I'm really stunned. I don't know what to say. This is really looking like bad news. This chapter was wonderful! It's so tight with tension it groans...despite Loriel's happy play. Oh daw, it's a terrific chapter. This story has been outstanding despite your misgivings that it might not turn out the way you wanted it. I can't say enough about how good it is. I might have more to say later when I'm not in shock any longer. I've got to think. But I wanted to tell you how good this is! Karen

Elvenesse · 27 May 2005 · Chapter 7: Terror in the Woods

The changing scenes most definitely work! Is it too much to ask that Eilian and Sinnarn are left relatively unscathed?

Ithiliel · 27 May 2005 · Chapter 7: Terror in the Woods

*puts on her glasses with shaking hands* Okay, I can think of three explanations for Emmelin's weeping. 1) Something has happened to both Celuwen and Loriel. This one is the least likely. 2) Something has happened to Loriel, and Celuwen is too intent to scream or cry. This one is not very likely, either. 3) She can't feel Sinnarn anymore. Unfortunately, this one is the most likely, since it corresponds both with the situation near Dol Guldur and Thranduil's dream. Lorellin's words seem hauntingly clear now. You just killed off Sinnarn, didn't you? I hope I'm wrong. I *really* hope I'm wrong. (But I must say: even if we did just lose Sinnarn, I still love this story. And now I'm nervous about Loriel, too.) I can't wait to see what happens next... I think... -Ithiliel

meckinock · 27 May 2005 · Chapter 7: Terror in the Woods

Oh, Daw. I know some people who run a witness security program. I might be able to find a place for you.

Elvenesse · 27 May 2005 · Chapter 7: Terror in the Woods

That has to be the most evil cliffhanger in existence! Leave Loriel alone, she's only a baby. Pleeease. I like the depiction of the Nazgûl’s presence – and that they somehow manage to fight against it (after all Legolas shoots one down some 70, or so, years later (yay!)). You handled the tension in the chapter very nicely: I wanted to shriek by the end of it.

Socket · 27 May 2005 · Chapter 7: Terror in the Woods

Oh, Daw, I'm so behind on leaving you FB! Please forgive me. I *am* reading this story, and more importantly, I'm really enjoying it. Thranduil's dream left me with cold chills going down my spine. I thought I knew where you were going to take this, but -- once again -- you've surprised me. Keep it going, honey! Thank you.

elliska · 27 May 2005 · Chapter 7: Terror in the Woods

Well that was terrifying indeed. I am going to leave a quick review so I can go back through and re-read. Then I'll leave a better one. I had never read the LotR when the movies came out and my husband dragged me to see Fellowship (glad he did). The scene with the Balck Riders chasing Frodo was so scary to me the first time I saw it that I almost left the theater. I did cover my eyes and ears. I feel for Eilian. And Emmelin at the end has me very worried. There are two reasons I suppose that she could be in the state she's in and neither are good. I have to go read this more slowly and I'm at work, so I will leave a decent review later--just wanted to say: Holy cow that was scary, daw!

FirstMate · 27 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

Well, I don't even know where to start! I've been out of the loop for awhile and haven't kept up with stories like I'd like to. But...wow! So much has happened. Sinnarn grown up and married? Elian married? And with a child? He makes a very cute dad, although I have to admit I miss the recklessness of his youth. It made him a wonderful character because you never knew what foolish thing he might do. Don't get me wrong...I love how you've made all them all grow up and become more settled, but I still kind of miss the rakish young characters. Anyway, your ending of this chapter was...not to sound too dramatic...masterful. It left so much for the reader to think about and wonder. Clearly it was some kind of warning, but of what? Sounds like life is about to get much tougher for Thranduil and his family. Charming, lovely story as usual...can't wait to read more!

thechevin · 26 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

Sorry this is late I have been to London to the Chelsea Flower show and only just got back and picked up the latest chapter This was funny, sad and heartbreaking in turn, the 'keeper's are so full of wisdom and support even if Beliond's support tends to take the form of cryptic comments. He really does not like men does he? No wonder he did not initially approve of Legolas going on the Quest with Aragorn. Legolas's interest in humans must really get under his skin Eilian and Maltanaur make an excellent team Thranduil's dream started so wonderfully but ended with what I take is a warning of the future although I did like his wife's comment about parents and granparents this story is like a tapestry that is slowly and beautifully coming together to make a full picture

perelleth · 26 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

Have I told you that I love how you describe the human settlements? I think I did, back in that story when Beliond and Legolas go with Eilian and Maltanaur to Dale and Beliond ends up juggling in the streets, it was wonderfully done, and so it is here. "I will have the night crier put it about that a dangerous intruder..." I had to smile at this. Some weeks ago, I had to do some field research in the southern mediteranean area, and I found some small villages around the desert where the night criers were still operating! I loved it! both real life and to find it in your story! I also like that Dale and Esgaroth are so vastly different from each other! The statue was great fun, as it was thinking that Legolas would remmeber where the former King's palace had stood... "How in Arda could Bard bear to be so friendly with someone he had once faced across a battle field?" This, too, I found very thought-provoking... Legolas still lacks Ithilden's or Thrnaduil's pragmatism, to know that today's opponent may become next day's most useful ally. And what does Annael think of all this? He must be thrilled, being at the Home Guard, he surely didn't have much chances to go outside the forest! Thranduil's dream has nothing to do with the present mission south, does it? I die to learn more about Dol Guldur!

Brazgirl · 25 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

Hi Daw! Just dropped by to say I enjoyed the chapter very much. Though I am worried now with Thranduil. I don't like when he have these dreams... the last time Legolas was kidnapped and Eilian almost got killed (!). Legolas is doing fine as a diplomat, I think. And you did well giving this family a bossy little woman! She is so cute!!! And misses her ada! Tell her he misses her too! And good luck with your work.

Yanic · 25 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

What a way to end a chapter! Although judging from the time this story is set, it wont be long now until things start heating up in Mirkwood. I had to laugh at this line "The wizard had not yet asked for anything too outrageous, but Thranduil could not help feeling that one of these days, he would." If Thranduil only knew! I am so looking forward to the feast with Legolas and Dáin and everyone's favorite crank, Beliond! I can't wait, I'm sure it'll be amusing.

LOTRFaith · 25 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

lol... Yes it is the three hunters... Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas :-) Funny, how history seems to repeat itself at times :-)

elliska · 25 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

I am so behind on everything. Sorry. Lake Town and Dale in one story. This is so much fun. I love seeing Legolas interacting so well with the leaders in his part of the world--it is practice he should take seriously because he will be repeating the experience again soon and not limiting himself to Rhovanion. But I just chuckled all the way through this. I can just see Legolas and crew staring at that statue--I busted out laughing at the thought of Thranduil immortalized with a man and that particular dwarf. If it is at all possible, you have to work in showing Legolas tell his father about it. And such a stern representation of him. Legolas must have just been dying. I loved that part. How clever. Remember that Bard is our ally, Beliond I loved this line for so many reasons. First, it's funny. I bet it just burns Beliond up when Legolas is right and he can't argue with it. And also because it really does show Legolas as a leader--both in that he has developed the diplomatic skills he first used in Spring Awakenings to accept and handle different races and he can quietly but effectively manage those under his command. Of course, then Belions got his return lick in--that made it perfect. It's a pity Tolkien didn't have Beliond to include on the Quest. I just love him. True. You can sit next to him. Legolas still wins! :-) I liked Bard here. he seems very much like how I pictured him from the Hobbit. Very practical and sensible. And I loved that we got a glimpse of Bain. I'm sure elves do like children and they are probably fascinated by mortal children since they grow so fast. I like the idea of Thranduil meeting young Bain and then working with King Bain. Cool. Thranduil gazing at the tree tops in the beginning of the next part... And then the end part. Well done, daw. That was powerful. I have to comment on that here. This whole chapter just had me chuckling along, as I said. Loved the town and the part with Loriel and then Thranduil's nice little day ends with a wonderful, rare treat of a dream. And then bam--the tree tops burst into flame! That was shocking and really shows how this wonderful short peace they have been enjoying is about to become the culmination of all the troubles they suffered throughout the Third Age very quickly. Very well done. Back to the part with Thranduil and Loriel--such a sweet little girl--loosing her shoes and telling Thranduil that her ada kisses her nana. Too cute. And Mithrandir--he depends on Thranduil's sons alright. The question is how badly that should frighten Thranduil! More than he knows right now. This was a really great chapter. I am really impressed at the canon touches here. Great job!

Elena Tiriel · 25 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

P.S. Loved that statue in Dale. Do you read the Harry Potter books? Because it so reminds me of the statue in the Mistry of Magic... - Barbara

Elena Tiriel · 25 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

So Loriel can reach high enough to close the gate by herself, huh? You do like to make your readers very nervous, don't you? :-( He kissed the top of his granddaughter’s head, grateful for the many adults who could help Celuwen keep an eye on her. Is the entire adult population of Mirkwood going to be enough? Legolas seems to be doing well in Dale. And Beliond... “Remember that Dáin is our ally, Legolas.” *snicker* Guess I'll just get into that line over there (behind Nilmandra, of course) for the Beliond Fan Club... Oh, dear. Thranduil's dream is definitely of the heart-pounding kind. We know that the treetops do eventually burst into flame in the Battle under the Trees... but that bit about children and grandchildren is just... scary. You just keep turning up the heat, Daw! I can't wait to see what happens next... - Barbara

Bodkin · 24 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

On names - I can do the 'F' elves reasonably well. I can almost remember the 'C' sons of Feanor, (although not which is which). The ones that do for me every time are the 'A' elves, (who always seem fairly incidental and not hugely developed), which is why they are Very Rarely Mentioned, and if I want a random sibling of Galadriel, I always go for Orodreth. In a way it is terribly helpful that Tolkien tended to go for the 'all members of the same family starting with the same letter' theory of naming, (I'm sure he did it in an attempt to keep track), but it certainly doesn't make it easy to differentiate between them. Is there anyone out there who can list Aragorn's ancestry without looking them up? I would think even Aragorn would have a job. I can just see Mithrandir as that old bachelor uncle that all the kids adore - full of exciting stories and with pockets full of candies - from whom their parents are always trying to keep them. Thus, of course, making him even more fascinating. The poor mites just don't know how dangerous he can be. And he must like the kids - they're the only ones who are always pleased to see him.

meckinock · 24 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

The juxtaposition of Mannish and Elvish perceptions of time was very thought-provoking, as usual. Legolas's recollections of his past visits to Dale so vividly illustrated that events that to him (and us!) seem like they happened yesterday have fallen into the realm of history and legend for the Mannish inhabitants. The future is just as skewed by perspective. To the Elves, the Shadow's fall is so imminent as to be palpable, and yet Bard's little son will probably indeed live a long, full, life and die of old age before the Ring War. Loriel continues to be cute as a button. Your kids do such wonderfully kid-like things, like leaving their shoes outside to be looked for later. I loved her disclosure to Thanduil that her ada kisses her nana, and acknowledgement that he knows. Thank goodness they all know to keep an eye on her so she can't wander off. I don't think my heart could take it. Hear? Thranduil's dream was chilling. It gave me goosebumps. That's all because I am on the goofy laptop that refuses to leave the cursor in the right place, and I am also in the same time zone with Karen again, which is a certain sign of impending natural disaster...

The Karenator · 24 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

Just as I was rereading this...slowly...and savoring it, an ominous cloud flitted overhead. Lorellin has just revealed something important, hasn't she? I'm afraid it's more than the Battle Under the Trees too. Hm.m.m. I'm thinking... Back to Dale...will the next chapter be called 'Dining with Dáin'? That was a shocker for our trusty trackers. Now...let me back up again. I love the statue. I can just see Legolas standing in front of it with a stunned, but amused look on his face. And I can see Beliond snorting at the 'suspect' memories of men. ...allies that any Elf would be grateful for.” LOL! Bard didn't know much, but he had one clue to add that did speak of Gollum having made his way through Dale. I was struck with the differences in the two leaders our merry elves have met with. Esgaroth's leader was a tad on the egotistical side, while Bard seemed rather down to earth. A good father and a good king, I'd say. Little Bain was cute. Loriel would like him! As a friend. But I feel sorry for any ellon who wants to court Loriel when she's older. Her entire family is armed and dangerous. The fact that her grandfather is king will be the least of the poor guy's worries. I love the little snippets of Mithrandir. He's a wily old goat. You never know exactly what he's got up his sleeve. I don't blame Thranduil for questioning whether it's a good thing that the wizard relies on him and his sons. The wizard had not yet asked for anything too outrageous, but Thranduil could not help feeling that one of these days, he would. Uh, yup! Two such days spring immediately to mind. Loriel is a such a sweetie. She's so open and comfortable with her ada's family. I know she's seen them as often as possible, but she doesn't seem to have spent the time in their presence that she's spent with her nana's parents. But she's settled right into the palace, stealing hearts and losing shoes. Now...remember the last time you let a child get hurt and the uproar it caused with the villagers? All that talk of tar and feathers. It was a near thing that the ranger, the sweet adorable child and I were able to calm them. Just thought I mention that. Terrific chapter. Lots of good stuff. I can't wait to find out what happens next. Karen

Small Triumphs · 24 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

What an awesome thing to come home to! I just got back from a retreat to see that you had another story underway! That definately made my day. Lots of stuff going on here! Eilian as a daddy and living in the settlement, Sinnarn married, and a long awaited peace has finally descended upon Mirkwood. Though, by the looks of it, not for much longer. Lorellin is a wonderful addition to your characters. So much like her daddy and grandmother. I can see why she is so doted upon! And Eilian truly makes a great father (though that is not too surprising). I love the picture you paint of their little family, living happily in the settlement. Somehow, it seems as though that was how they were intended to be living all along. And Legolas is so much fun to read! You definitely have made him much more like Book-Legolas, but the transition didn't seem like a sudden or surprising change. It feels as though all of your stories have contributed and lead up to him reaching this point. I loved the statue in this chapter! It's funny, when you were first describing it, I got this sudden mental picture of the Three Hunters. I'll bet Legolas would have never imagined becoming such a legend. Unfortunately, though I would like to review all of your chapters individually, I am pressed for time! I really am enjoying this story though, Daw. Good job! ~Small Triumphs

Manderly · 24 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

Reading about the visit with Bard was like a little trip down memory lane, as well as a reminder of the timelessness of the lives of elves. It's easy to forget that those who are not elves continue to age outside the Woodland Realm. I really like the bantering between Legolas and Beliond. They have come such a long way from the time that Beliond was first assigned to watch over Legolas. I can still remember the tension and frustration of those early days. They really have both "matured". That dream that Thranduil had was pretty ominous. Was that the unofficial announcement that bad news is ahead?

LOTRFaith · 24 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

Hmm... I find it very interesting that there is a statue of an elf, man and dwarf in Dale :-) One can only think of another trio that is even more famous. It is very scary to think that Gollum would/might eat any young child. Freaks me out for sure! I suddenly find myself locking my window at nights... Hmm... I wonder if perhaps you are the cause ? ;-) Great chapter!

sofia · 24 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

Loriel is such a sweet elfling... I can only imagine what she will be like when she gets older- and how Eilian will act. Loriel watched him closely. “My ada kisses my nana,” she confided in Thranduil. “I have seen your ada do that,” Thranduil agreed gravely. ^ Love that bit of dialogue. It really brings out the sweetness of a happy family and shows how innocent and young Loriel is. Thranduil's dream... I'm assuming somethings going on? Eek. Can't wait for the next chapter. -sofia

Lamiel · 24 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

One of my favorite things about showing Elves interacting with mortals is the differing perceptions of time and memory. Legolas' lapse in remembering that none of Dale's inhabitants were alive when Smaug destroyed the town is a prime example of that. I like that statue of Thranduil with Bard and Dain, too. Heh, it's rather a tongue in cheek memorial, as Beliond pointed out, but one can appreciate the intent. Actually it reminded me a bit of the statue J.K. Rowling describes in the last Harry Potter book, at least in the way that the Man was front and center of the little group. At least they didn't have the Elf and Dwarf looking up at Bard in adoration. That really would be a stretch. Now why does Gandalf's appreciation for Thranduil and his sons strike me as being a bit ominous? Given his history, I think Thranduil has reaason to be a bit nervous about having Mithrandir "Stormcrow" so ready to turn to them in a pinch. And this prophetic dream of his at the end... this does not bode well. Not well at all.

French Pony · 24 May 2005 · Chapter 6: Meetings

I meant to say this last chapter, but I forgot, so I'll say it now. I really like the pacing of this story. It's not moving lickety-split, but it doesn't need to. You've been keeping it at a nice, reasonable pace, doling out enough information to move the plot along, but not so much that it drowns out the atmosphere. It's a nice sort of summer-paced story, and that style works well for you. Wood-elves in Dale is, of course, endlessly amusing. Annael smiles cheerfully at everyone he meets, while Beliond glowers. It's like Legolas is being trailed by Good Cop and Bad Cop. And I love the statue. I imagine it in Soviet Realist style, for some reason, which makes it even funnier. I bet it looks nothing like Thranduil. Impressive that Legolas is able to get an audience so fast. That's what comes of being old war buddies with the King, and a royal Elf to boot. Mere mortals would have had to make an appointment with a secretary who had just gone home. He supposed that Beliond would never get over his suspicions that Men left alone with Legolas would leap at him with drawn knives and a pack of rabid dogs at their command. Well, yes. That's why Thranduil pays Beliond the big bucks. Bain is cute. For all that Legolas recognizes the I-don't-wanna-go-to-bed-and-miss-out-on-something-exciting expression from Sinnarn's face, I bet he doesn't remember that he probably wore it himself plenty of times. Now, Bain is the one who was King after the War of the Ring, right? Any Wood-elf, royal or no, who makes Loriel go out wearing shoes in the summer deserves what he or she gets. And I sense trouble a-brewin'. If Loriel can close the gate (and is this the big one, the magic one?) then she can probably open it, too. And the guards are probably still more accustomed to guarding against people coming in than kids coming out. I wonder how often Thranduil dreams of Lorellin. One would think that he'd do so fairly often, but this particular dream strikes me as being unique and prophetic.