Reviews (175)

Rose Sared · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Nah, the endlessly involving House of Oropher, I think. The ME soap opera with your favorite characters in 'Danger' in 'Love' in 'Trouble'. Hah - I am so rude, sorry, I must not tease. I hope you know it is the highlight of my day and week when you post, and I do love these tales. (...Like the wind through the leaves so the story of Mirkwood continues... cheesy music) Go on, throw things at me! (At least you will get the chance!) Rose

meckinock · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Loved the setup for the Thranduil - Eilian heart to heart talk, with Thranduil just casually walking up and then dispatching Legolas. I could just see Eilian squirming. It was such a warm scene. Thranduil was just blunt enough to get his point across and just gentle enough to make sure Eilian heard it. Too bad they can't have more moments like that. Oh, what would be the fun in that, right? But it's nice that they had one, at least :-) Legolas is a riot. I absolutely loved his scene with Maltanaur. Maltanaur, pondering how he can use Eilian's affection for this "bossy little creature" to control him. The sly old coot. And Legolas with his Good Housekeeping "thank you, I had a lovely time." Oh, and I cracked up when Thranduil stuck Eilian with Legolas for the night. The image of Thranduil hanging off the edge of his cot was too much. Great story.

Manderly · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Another wonderful tale, but I am really sorry to see it end so soon! Well Thranduil and family survived their little excursion (minus blanket and all) and everyone seemed to have gained something from it. Thranduil changed his tactics with Eilian and for the better too. Eilian is certainly one who needs more of the kid glove handling rather than a gauntlet. But Thranduil's punishment was rather evil - a night spent with a squirming child in a narrow cot. I bet Eilian was probably never so glad to see the morning light. Maltanaur really is the perfect guard for Eilian. Perhaps Thranduil might learn a thing or two from this warrior if he wants to keep Eilian in line. The last scene between the bossy little elfling and the warrior was just perfect. Legolas wields more power than he can ever realize himself! Thank you for this story, Daw. I had a lovely time :)!

Frodo3791 · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

This was a very nice wrap-up. Thranduil comforted Eilian. Ithilden was able to come home and find out that his armies were all still relatively in one piece. Maltanuar came out of his coma, and Legolas popped up at his cottage to make sure Maltanuar will never do anything so stupid like get hurt while defending his brother again. Ah... how I love happy endings. I was so glad to see you were back with this story, and I hope that you'll start a new one very soon. -Micah

sofia · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Brilliant, as always. I cannot say that enough. Legolas visiting Maltanaur was very surprising, yet a cute ending. "Eilian treasured this rather bossy little creature who was so worried about him." I love that line. I always thought Legolas bossyness as childish protection but bossy does fit quite well. Can't wait till the next story.

Brazgirl · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Oh, so sad it is over. I like the fact Thranduil could talk and listen to Eilian. There is nothing better than knowing your parent can listen to you. And those two have not a good past in this. Thranduil had a friend whose voccabulary, etc. Would that be... Beliond??? Ahahaha!!! Poor Eilian, too afraid of his father's reaction to imagine Thranduil would take Legolas and Eilian apart. Cute and bossy elfling visiting Maltanaur was nice. And the elf getting better was great, especially when Eilian said he was sorry. I will certainly miss your updates! I hope to read more from you!!! As Maltanaur said, ' Who in his right mind would ever regret becoming part of the life of the endlessly amusing members of the House of Oropher? ' Hugs, Brazgirl

Elena Tiriel · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

A great story, Daw! And such a satisfying ending! I have so enjoyed seeing you write here again... thank you! - Barbara

Alice · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Hee. I love Maltaunar. That last line was just perfect. And Maltaunar knows his charge. A bit of psychology is useful in being one of the Keepers. I think that's why Maltaunar had an easier time of it in some ways than Beliond. Speaking of Beliond, I love how Thranduil doesn't want his friend with a mouth that will set the forest on fire around Legolas. That'll change. I really enjoyed this chapter. The others too. The last one was really touching in so many ways. Poor Eilian. I'm glad Thranduil got him to talk to him. They're steadily getting better at being a family without Lorellin. Thranduil is crafty though, and a bit mean to pass the restless bedmate on to Eilian. Very smooth, Oropherion. I loved the scene with Ithilden thinking about Eilian in his office. He made a breakthrough! Yay! The House of Oropher is healing itself. I'm glad you're back to writing fanfiction. I look forward to your next story and your original fiction when it does hit stores.

Jay of Lasgalen · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Ahh. Lovely ending, Daw. I'm delighted to see Maltanaur well again, and to see what led to his injury. I love that he knows Eilian so well: both that he will thrive on the danger and challenges in the south; and that he himself can use Eilian's devotion to his little brother to temper his extremes. The chat between Thranduil and Eilian was well done, but long overdue. I loved the end - Thranduil's faith in Eilian is a two-edged sword. Eilian has his father's trust, but can look forward to a sleepless night with a cold-footed little brother! What a well-brought-up elfling Legolas is. “Thank you for having me. I had a lovely time.” :) Yes, but did Maltanaur??

Dot · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Ah, I was hoping for this today! I’m glad Legolas seems to have recovered fairly well, apart from being understandably more clingy. Eilian’s pride in him for resisting the temptation to embellish the adventure is very sweet. I like Cólithiel! She’s a feisty young one. Isemir better stick to winning games instead of listening to spider stories for now. For some reason I love the fact that Thranduil appeared before even Eilian knew he was coming :-) And I had to laugh when he tells him that he came back to see both of them. Poor Eilian. Apples and honey? Someone else had elves eating that recently. Elliska, I think. It sounds delicious! I was thrilled with the whole scene between Thranduil and Eilian. It was Thranduil at his adar-ly best. He was calm and encouraging and reassuring, but he was honest too. “When I was your age, I had a friend whose language would set fire to the forest. He is one of the most valiant warriors I know, and I treasure his friendship, but I am not sure I would want him spending time with Legolas.” Beliond, right?? Too funny. I was almost afraid to read about what happened with Maltanaur. *sigh* What can I say? Eilian should have done what he was told, but he knows that now. It was probably the only thing that would have shocked him into realising that. More than anything, Maltanaur didn’t deserve to be hurt. I can see why Eilian has been so troubled and why he’d make a promise never to endanger his keeper like that again. My heart went out to Eilian when he asks Thranduil with such anguish why he won’t wake up. It reminded me how young Eilian still is here too, and how much he’s been through lately. “And if you let your regret teach you some wisdom, perhaps your sorrow will not have been wasted.” I thought that was a great way to deal with Eilian’s worry and a gentle reminder that there is a lesson to be learned. Thranduil looked remarkably calm, and although Eilian knew his father could mask his emotions well when he wanted to. I always thought there was something kind of sad about that. Not here, but in general. Especially for people like Thranduil and Ithilden, who have such a strong sense of duty and who must spend a lot of time hiding emotions, especially recently. I remember Ithilden lamenting the fact that Sinnarn would learn to do that. Thranduil is right, though, that Eilian needs to tell Todith or Ithilden. But I think Eilian realises that too. “Legolas, would you like to sleep in the warriors’ tent with Eilian tonight?” LOL! A treat for Legolas (and Eilian, no matter how much he groans) but I think it will mean a good night’s sleep for Ada too! Although, how none of them thought to just pull all the cots close together… What I love most about this is the faith that Thranduil is putting in Eilian and the acknowledgement of the special relationship between him and Legolas. I feel a little bad for Ithilden, though. I was just going to ask if Legolas can go and stay in his bed some time but then I realised that I had trouble imagining it :-/ Unless Eilian were away and Ada otherwise occupied. What a shock Eilian must have got when Maltanaur’s bed was empty. That happened to me once. Not pleasant. But it was surely a relief to hear that he was well enough to demand to be let out of the infirmary! Maltanaur was wonderful. He knew how Eilian felt. He still gave him the chance to say what needed to be said, but he still knew, and so forgiveness came easily enough to him. And again, I’m so proud of Eilian. He could have got away with things more easily, but he’s learned something and he wants to show Maltanaur how much he truly regrets what happened and how much his keeper means to him. “Mistakes I can deal with,” Maltanaur said. “Stupidity wears me down.” Oh, well said! I may have to stick that up over my desk at work! I love Calith. Of course he had things running smoothly. But I thought it was rather moving the way Ithilden wants to regain some sense of control. Apparently dealing with the entire warrior force of the Woodland Realm is easier than dealing with his family… Ah. So Maltanaur had a huge role in getting Eilian sent south. Eilian never really seemed to know that, though. I thought Ithilden’s line was “I sent you there because I needed you and had no other choice?” Though, I suppose that is what it came down to. He had no choice if he wanted his brother to become what he was capable of being. Actually, it’s a good thing that Ithilden never explained this to Legolas when he was wondering why he wasn’t sent there or Beliond would have had a riot on his hands! What a selfless person Maltanaur is. He obviously hates the thought of a potentially great warrior wasting his life and abilities and he’s in a position to do something about it. His father would have his head if Eilian came to harm because Ithilden had misjudged his readiness. And their mother would never forgive him. What a weight Ithilden carries. I imagine he was a lot more reluctant to explain to his mother than to the king… The world was wide and cruel, and he was going to have to let those he loved wander in it without him on guard at their side. It could not be helped. He would do what he could, and then he had to let them go. :-( It sounds like Ithilden has been learning something lately too. I just loved Legolas’ visit to Maltanaur!! I thought it was lovely how happy Maltanaur was when he thought that it was Eilian coming to visit him and it was very insightful to see Nindwen telling her husband that he frightened her, as Thranduil has often told Eilian. I think I forget sometimes that Maltanaur has people at home who worry about his dangerous job too. It’s so amusing that Legolas reminded Maltanaur of Thranduil in his determination and authoritative figure. I thought he was very good with Legolas. I was glad his reaction was sympathy and he probably realises that Legolas isn’t yet old enough to know that his wishes for his family to be safe sometimes means that others must suffer. It’s so sad to see Legolas’ worry and I was relieved that Maltanaur managed to reassure him as much as he could without making impossible promises. Perhaps Maltanaur could make use of that. Eilian would not want to make Legolas unhappy Sneaky, but I think it may work ;-) “Thank you for having me. I had a lovely time.” Aaaw, he hasn’t lost Lorellin’s words yet. He’s so adorable sometimes :-) “Are you sure?” Thranduil had asked. “He will be a handful. I hope you do not wind up regretting your decision.” Now, that’s interesting because it sounds like there was a lot less of Thranduil telling Maltanaur he had to do it than when he decided that Beliond would be assigned to Legolas. Hmm. Who in his right mind would ever regret becoming part of the life of the endlessly amusing members of the House of Oropher? Not me!! I was delighted by this tale. It offered lots of backstory and some wonderful insight into these characters. And this was a lovely end to a very enjoyable story :-)

Alison H · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Awww, that was such a sweet chapter and I'm still laughing over Legolas' parting words--"Thank you for having me.I had a lovely time".Isn't that what you say when you can't think of anything nicer? I seem to remember another story where the same words were spoken by Legolas and Thranduil laughed, too. I was really looking forward to Thranduil's talk with Eilian and you didn't disappoint me.I always love it when Thranduil surprises Eilian by his words and deeds.Eilian expected to be hauled over the carpet for his behaviour but Thranduil was patient, sympathetic and loving.I love that! He managed to dole out a little punishment by sending Legolas to sleep in his tent but,I expect, Eilian didn't really mind.That Thranduil made Eilain feel better had me smiling. I liked the back story with Maltanaur telling Ithilden that Eilain would thrive in the South and being proved right, though I always felt sorry for Ithilden always having to send both Eilian and Legolas into danger. I was SO amused by bossy little Legolas telling Maltanaur to look after Eilian or else! That was too cute! I can just imagine the look on Maltanaur's face when confronted by a wrathful mini Thranduil.That was genius, Daw. Thanks again for this wonderful story.I loved every word and hope you'll post another story soon. Take care. Ali.

Bodkin · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Oh, I love honest little Legolas. Even to impress the maidens, he can't bring himself to embroider the truth. Interesting that Isemir is more repelled than Cólithiel. But then Isemir is more likely to have to go into battle against them than Cólithiel. And Legolas is actually playing with them now - even if he isn't able to beat them at their games. But he does get honeyed apples. How to make yourself popular among village elflings. He is easier to settle than Eilian - who is squirming enough to reveal his closeness to elflinghood. Confession, though, is good for the fea, so he will probably feel rather better now he has admitted that his own stupidity caused Maltanaur's injury. And I loved the reunion with the recovered Maltanaur - and his promise. His admission that he will make mistakes is charming - and Maltanaur's response is great. The way Eilian doubled Maltanaur's demanded penalty shows a lovely side of his character, too. Maltanaur is just soooooo good for Eilian. Then Ithilden's recollection of the meeting with Maltanaur, where he suggested that to save Eilian he needed to be sent south where he could feel challenged and needed - and be kept away from the bad influences around the Stronghold. It is such a good explanation of the reason behind Eilian's very early introduction to the Southern Patrol. And although Thranduil probably did go absolutely ape at the idea of it, I'm sure that he could see the reasons - and probably convinced Lorellin that it would be to Eilian's benefit. Now - He is one of the most valiant warriors I know, and I treasure his friendship, but I am not sure I would want him spending time with Legolas - his name wouldn't be Beliond, would it, by any chance? And, by the way, I just loved Thranduil's suggestion that Legolas should spend the night with Eilian. It combines so many things - a treat for Legolas, a treat-come-penalty for Eilian, a comfortable night's sleep for the king - and, at the same time, an indication of trust in and affection for his wild son. Legolas's royal visit to Maltanaur is wonderful. Something about a little kid demanding that his brother should be looked after properly, so that he doesn't get hurt, is lovely. As is the winning over with the judicious application of gingerbread. Legolas won't be happy when Maltanaur is well enough to take Eilian back south - but he is going to have to get used to it. And Annael and Turgon are there - well, just outside the door. I do love Annael - and his family. (I feel sorry for Turgon, but he isn't as innately lovable as Annael.) I really enjoyed this story - and am keeping my fingers crossed that there will be another along soon. And I haven't said much about Ithilden. Ithilden, Ithilden, Ithilden. A story sometime about him and his ever-patient aide, Calith would be great. And the paperweights.

moonshine44 · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Wow, I can`t really think of anything to say. It was a great chapter, and a great story over all. You seem to be able to end all of your fics just right. I love the bit with Maltanaur. And I agree with him. Who wouldn`t want such a great responsibility? I would be in my glory if I could be Maltanaur. So as always, I have to wonder about the next fic. Like when is it coming? hehehe.....not to be pushy, I just love reading your fics: ) Great story! You have, yet again, outdone yourself!

Kat · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Awe Legolas is so cute!!! I just love him! Lol. I also loved Elian in this chapter. His concern for his guard is touching, as well as his promise. I can't wait to read more, keep up the good work.

French Pony · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur

Maltanaur really has a good grasp of child psychology, being the only one to reason that Eilian the wild child needs more of a serious challenge rather than being kept away from danger. I guess it must take a leap of faith for an adult to make that kind of decision, but Maltanaur is good at that sort of thing. Kind of makes one wonder what his daughter was like as a child to make him so good at handling Eilian. I can't see Maltanaur raising such a meshuggeneh, but he had to have learned somewhere. Apples and honey! That's the thing to eat now. And almost the right day of the year, too; it's tomorrow night. When I was your age, I had a friend whose language would set fire to the forest. He is one of the most valiant warriors I know, and I treasure his friendship, but I am not sure I would want him spending time with Legolas. I suppose what Thranduil doesn't know about his future won't cause him to have a stroke. . . he does seem to get less uptight about language as the kids grow up, though. Good for him. He's got bigger things to worry about. Points for his effort at listening to Eilian. If he made a habit of doing that, he'd be golden. But at least he made the effort this time. That probably kept a door open that was in serious danger of shutting and locking for good. He's cleverer at managing Legolas by putting him in the warriors' tent, but he certainly has some concrete reasons there. Maltanaur does seem like an eminently reasonable person. I'm sure he was waiting to wake up until Eilian had apologized enough. Good story.

White Wolf · 1 October 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

Very clever of Legolas to go to the stream, thinking that's where the camp would be. It was a scary moment, when his foot went into the water. Thank goodness he didn't fall in. His poor family's emotions covered some ground, going from terror to relief. I hope that Thranduil and Eilian can find some common ground soon before they get so far apart they can't reach each other. BTW. to answer your question from my last review: I live two hundred miles north of Houston, and was directly in Rita's path, but thankfully, by the time she got here, all we had were high winds and lots of rain, resulting in a few downed tress and power lines. I lost power a couple of times, but all is welll now. Thanks for asking.

Lianna · 30 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

I can't help but wonder what Thranduil felt about thirty seconds after Legolas jumped into his arms. I figure it would have taken about that long for the cold water from Legolas's foot to soak through Thranduil's clothing and for Thranduil to realize just how close his elfling had come to falling in the river. That would be a bad moment for any parent, even a king of elves. It seems that both Thranduil and Eilian are learning that listening to the voices in your head may be a good thing. ;) I like it, though. It means that Lorellin and Maltanaur are still with them. Sort of.

Rose Sared · 29 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

Ah me, can you be my parent, daw?- your wisdom as filtered through your characters is so true (Nah, wouldn't wish it on you, hah. But I do get fed up with being grown up all the time.) Loved this chapter - pain in the past always seems to magnify the present pain, and they really have not at all got over losing Legolas' mother. Wonderful portrayal of both Elian and Thranduil calling on the memory of loved ones to guide their present actions. Brought a tear to my eye - (What again, rose - you're soft!) Thanks

Socket · 29 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

Whew! I thought this was going to be more traumatic than it actually was. I'm glad you resolved poor Legolas's adventure in the woods in this chapter than giving us a cliffhanger. And how resourceful and brave was our little elf? I'm very proud of him. I really love the way you are weaving the stories of Thranduil and his three sons, and how they interact with one another. Thranduil seems so sensitive to his three very different sons, but we also get a real sense of how frustrating it must be for him to deal with the son he is most different from, Eilian. As an Ithilden groupie, I really appreciate you showing him in a moment of vulnerability and pain, when he confesses his feelings to his father about his role in Legolas becoming lost. We don't often get to see Ithilden that way, and it's a revelation. Just in case it's not clear, I'm truly loving this story! Thanks so much, Daw.

elliska · 29 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

Yeap, this was bound to happen given the circumstances. I loved the detail of Legolas remmebering how good Annael was at tracking. And he was just so dear--so proud of himself for being good at the game. *Smiles* Oh I felt so sorry for him because I knew he was going to hide himself too well. And then we are led down a merry little path where all is going well for Thranduil with his meeting with the villagers--until Eilain comes in and asks where Legolas was. I could just see the look and all three of their faces. We all have our stories of moments when we lost track of a child and the heart attack it instantly produces. I thought they all did much better than I would have done. The poor maiden--I would have taken a step back too. But Thranduil at least managed to conculde the conversation well and everyone really did a wonderful job of searching for him. I really felt for Eilian, wanting to search but being sent of to be a guard. I know that makes sense and Ithilden really paid him a compliment saying he was the best scout--but at that moment, I'm sure Eilian wanted to be a brother, not a warrior. But he did his duty well, with thoughts of Maltanaur to help him. (I am dying to see what's behind that). And again, I felt so sorry for him in the end when he goes off to duty, leaving the family in the tent. He needs Thranduil to take his wife's long ago advice and go listen (not talk) to him. Legolas is not the only person 'wandering' here--so is Eilian, of course. Poor little Legolas was even more dear when he was lost--I thought he was very wood-elfy. Comforted by the trees but frustrated they weren't pointing the way back to the village. :-) I agree with Thranduil, he did very well. And the image of him curled up in Thranduil's arms was very sweet. And I felt sorry for Ithilden--this is something he will beat himself up over for ever. Such a scary day for them all, but it could have been worse. Even knowing this was coming and knowing Legolas had to be found whole, it was still a very tense chapter. Full of wonderful details about these characters. Loved it, daw! :-)

sofia · 29 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

Poor Thranduil- he seemed to be in a right state most of the chapter... its starting to seem it was a bad idea to bring Legolas. You've made me curious- hopefully whatever is bothering Eilian isn't too serious. And I can totally picture Thranduil 'tucking in' Ithilden... AW!

esamen · 29 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

"He looked down at his baby, who still trusted him as the one who would come when he was in trouble. He had held Eilian like this, and surely Eilian too had trusted him. Why did he not trust him now? When had his second son wandered away and become lost to him?" Ooo, this is beautiful. I am so looking forward to that Thranduil-Eilian moment that I hope is coming soon. I really liked your use of the word "buzzed" when you described the maple tree. I love that mystical connection to the woods. That verb really made it come alive. Really! I love the story . . . I'm so glad you're writing Legolas again . . . this is still my favorite fan fic universe.

Brazgirl · 29 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

Nice chapter! It was interesting - and sad - to see the despair growing inside those three and powerful elven warriors because of the escape of one elfling. Ah, what love and fear can do in one's feelings! I love to read about Eilian's inner struggles. He thinks about Maltanaur even when the elf is away. Maybe he is a better pupil than everybody thinks. Plus, Daw I was wondering if you picture Eilian as a hyperactive person???

Dot · 29 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

I really enjoyed this chapter. I was waiting for Legolas to get lost but *whispers* to be honest, I was most interested in the reactions of his family – so this is wonderful! Green refuge? Ah, the elf version of Tip the Can. At least Legolas can introduce this new game to his friends at home. Well, he could if he understood it! I love seeing children playing games that they don’t really understand. I definitely sat up a little straighter at the mention of Hide and Seek. I love the reference to Annael being good at tracking and Legolas being so careful to hide any evidence of where he went. I’m glad Isemir isn’t good at everything as well :-) Ithilden was glad he had been able to return to the negotiations. He was sometimes able to temper his father’s more volatile reactions. Hmm. Ithilden may be more restrained than his father but I think Eilian is the diplomat of the family. He’ll charm rather than intimidate. Ithilden thought it had probably made the village leaders warm a bit to his father, seeing him less as a remote ruler and more as someone like themselves, whose children’s actions did not always make them puff with pride. Oh yes! I kind of thought that myself. As long as their own children don’t pick up the phrase, I imagine they should surely find it more amusing than anything else. I got a great kick out of the idea of Thranduil and Ithilden eating in Feldor’s kitchen. They’re probably the only two of the family who don’t ever get to do that kind of thing. Although, you could have waited until they at least had some food before ruining their day! I cringed through most of the conversation when Eilian arrived. They all quite neatly blame each other without saying much. Until they have time to blame themselves, of course. I must say, though, I like the way that responsible Ithilden took the blame that Thranduil might place on Eilian onto himself, whether he realised it or not. I felt rather sorry for that maiden! So maybe she could have kept track, but if I was looking after children and a strange one joined in for a while and then disappeared I probably wouldn’t be too worried either… Most heartbreaking lines of the chapter: He had not walked away and left his little brother in the woods with no one to care for him. That could not have happened. Poor Ithilden. Once again control has slipped from him. And right now, losing anyone he believed was supposed to be in his care must be his absolute worst nightmare :-( Of course, the other two must be frightened out of their wits too. I think Ithilden was right that Eilian should go and scout for danger, and really it was a compliment because he’s trusting Eilian to keep danger away from their little brother. I think Eilian probably realised that too, even if he wanted to be more involved in finding Legolas. The whole part with Legolas realising that he’s lost and trying to figure out what to do is done very well. I can really see his thought processes. He’s a smart elfling, but also one who needs security a little more than most right now. For a minute, he thought he might have to cry, but instead he said the only thing that seemed right for the occasion: “Orc spit.” I melted at that! That summed up his dejection and frustration so well, much better even than tears would. He has a lot of faith in the adults in his life. The story about Annael’s Nana and the baby bird was sweet. I’m so proud of Eilian! It’s interesting, though, that it’s Maltanaur’s voice that he turns to in a time like this, whereas Legolas always seems to have the ‘voice of Thranduil’ in his head, even as a warrior. I suppose Maltanaur has seen what Eilian is like in battle and has seen why he does the things he does, whereas his family only hear about it and can’t really judge it properly. I think Maltanaur would be proud of him too, because Eilian has been incautious in situations where there was much less anxiety for him, so to rein himself in now when all he wanted was to find Legolas is really commendable. Eilian is not having a good time at the moment. I know it’s a bad situation, but it’s kind of a good that Legolas’ tracks are hide to find too, right? It shows he’s been learning… “I would come for you anywhere, my heart.” I love that moment. I love any time that we get to see Thranduil as Ada. There’s such a special bond between these two because Thranduil is now his only parent. I can’t help thinking of Legolas’ future, when Ada really does have to let his son go. My favourite is the last part, though. I just adore the image of Thranduil sitting under the stars with his sleeping child in his arms. I’m so, so glad that Thranduil noticed Ithilden’s pain and tried to ease it a little. Ithilden had suffered in the months after his mother’s death, suffering that was no less real because it was quieter than Legolas’s noisy childish grief and less wild than Eilian’s self-destructive rush into danger. I think that maybe Thranduil can understand Ithilden more because his own grief too is very private. Perhaps deep down he envies Legolas and Eilian for their ability to find expression, even as the father and king in him disapproves of Eilian and worries about Legolas. But he obviously feels that he needs to be strong and to keep his personal feelings to himself. Ithilden is in the same position but Thranduil would never really question him because he doesn’t question himself. It’s good that he has these little moments of realisation. “I once lost track of Legolas, Turgon, and Annael in the woods near home." Yes, and that was three elflings. Near his home. I was going to bring that up if he was too hard on Eilian or Ithilden ;-) And Eilian! My heart went out to him when he had to leave that cosy scene. Yet a little part of him doesn’t seem ready to be among them. You must tell us more of the Maltanaur story!! “I probably should ask, if it has anything to do with Maltanaur being hurt. But Todith sent me a report on the incident, and I did not want to undermine him by going around him and questioning one of his warriors. Do you want me to speak to Eilian?” This is what frustrates me! Why does he have to talk to him as commander and warrior? Why not knock on his brother’s door, go in and sit on his bed and ask him what’s troubling him so much? Or go for a ride together. Geez. “Not that he is likely to confide in me in any case.” Wow. Did Thranduil just say that out loud?? He seems a little hurt by Eilian’s distance from him. Maybe guilty too. And I’m sure Eilian is equally hurt. *sigh* Those two. “I will talk to him. I will even try to listen to him.” I know there isn’t much of an improvement for a long time yet, but this is a start. I’ll just keep hoping that they can each manage not to let annoyance or resentment get in the way. Maybe they both just need a hug! “You must be tired, Ithilden.” He grinned. “Come and I will tuck you and Legolas both in.” I have the most idiotic grin on my face! Great lines!! And a wonderful chapter :-)

Alison H · 29 September 2005 · Chapter 4: Lost

This was such a wonderful chapter! Like everyone else I was on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen to Legolas once he began playing with the other children--and the title of this chapter made me even more nervous! I love how you get in to the mind of young Legolas.As he hid from the others I was comforted by the fact that the trees comforted Legolas! How I would love to be a wood-elf! It's heartbreaking to see Thranduil and Eilian so at odds and Ithilden didn't help when he told his brother to use his head! Ithilden was as panicked as he'd probably ever been but he should have thought a little before speaking to Eilian so tersely.At least Ithiden came to Eilian's defence later. I hope Eilian is responsive when Thranduil decides to speak with him.They are both stubborn and Thranduil should listen to his wife's advice more often--as Eilian listened to Maltanaur.Eilian needs Thranduil as much as Legolas, I think.He's still very young and I feel so bad for him, that he feels he has to push his father away. As usual you manage to weave such emotion into your stories and I've really missed these wonderful characters over the summer.Looking forward to the next chapter--even though it will be the last.I hope you have another story planned soon! Take care. Ali.