Reviews (175)

ScarlettPendragon · 25 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

Hi Daw!! OMG!! They forgot the friggin blanket?! The one thing they absolutely HAD to remember to bring and they forgot it?! Honestly!! At least they got through the first night without incident - what are the odds Thranduil's going to be as lucky the next night?! I have also been used for climbing practice by sleeping imps, so I can sympathise with the Elven King!! LOL I love Legolas critiquing Eilian's clothes and lack of circlet - for some reason, that just made me laugh and laugh!! It's also an aside that shows just how different the lives of the Thransuilions are from the other elves - I love how you incorporate those little throw-away lines that convey so much in your stories!! I am glad that Legolas got to play with the other little Elflings - and how it's Eilian that facilitates that interaction. It's like Thranduil and Ithilden know there's things they should be doing to make Legolas' stay happier, but they don't know what those things are, whereas Eilian has an instinctual gift of knowing what Legolas needs!! Another great chapter!! I'm looking forward to more!! Thanks again!! Scarlett

Frodo3791 · 25 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

I wondered how Legolas would choose to share his new vocabulary with Thranduil. I don't think Eilian had that in mind when he told Legolas he was going to help represent the House of Oropher. Oops... aren't kids precious though? Well, I thought Legolas was at least cute when he was running around with the other children playing the game he had no clue how to play. These moments are probably my favorite... the small ones that really have little to do with the story but seem to flesh out your characters the most. You always do well of incorpurating these moments and that's a huge talent, in my opinion. Thanks for another chapter. I can't wait for the next one. It always manages to brighten my day to see that you've updated. -Micah

Jay of Lasgalen · 25 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

Poor Ithilden - how well I remember this feeling: 'He was occupied for only a few minutes, but when he turned around again, Legolas was nowhere in sight.' I knew that blanket would disappear at some stage - poor Legolas. Both my children had special comforters like that, and I remember my horror when a much-loved rag called 'yummer' disappeared when I was small! I loved the 'orc spit' scene - knew we'd be hearing those words again soon. But poor Eilian - no-one notices the way he salvaged Legolas's pride after he dropped the plate, they just remember who taught him the expression. I can guess what's going to happen next - Legolas wakes at night, no blanket, so he goes off to snuggle down with Eilian. An elfling wandering the forest at night? Not good news. Even if nothing happens to him, Thranduil is going to have a heart attack when he finds him gone.

sheraiah · 25 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

Oh, daw, yet another gem from you! I've sorely missed this over the summer. 'Orc spit!' I can so relate to Thranduil in this chapter. My three year old son's favorite expression right now is 'Bloody Hell!' complete with British accent. Believe me, it's hard not to laugh when you hear this coming out of the mouth of a little boy from the US South. (Xander is a Harry Potter fanatic.) Why, however, do I sense storm clouds on the horizon? Of course, it could just be that this family attracts such things like honey attracts flies. ;-) I can't wait for the next chapter. Hugs, sheraiah

meckinock · 25 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

I'm seeing a lot of Legolas being passed around, but I'm not seeing one person being given sole responsibility for making sure he doesn't wander off. I can already hear the choruses of "I thought you were watching him!" But of course, it will all end up being Eilian's fault, regardless. I liked Ithilden's acknowledgement that if Eilian doesn't smell danger, there's no danger, though. And I cracked up when Ithilden reacted to Legolas's announcement that he planned to sleep in the army cot with Ada by thinking that this was one occasion when he was relieved not to be Legolas's favorite. Boy oh boy. There is nothing more fun in the universe for a little kid than a camping trip in the woods with his dad and brothers. Army cots! Cool! I was thinking in this chapter that what tickles me about your little kids is how you capture their mercurial, impulsive nature. He notices and reacts to everything for five explosive seconds, and then he's on to something new. Well, I guess he did remember to tattle to Ada about Ithilden not letting him poke his eye out, but by it had been rolled into the Legolas Daily Summary - “I took care of a horse, Ada, but Ithilden would not let me stay or have a sword either, and I saw three elflings.” LOL Eilian seems so alone. I was actually relieved he's not being forced to sleep in the tent with Thranduil and Ithilden - I think that might be a little too much family bonding at this point - but he seems painfully aware that anything he does will tick someone off. I admired him for not just splitting the scene after the orc spit incident; knowing that Thranduil would automatically assume he's been deliberately, or at least negligently, corrupting Legolas. Moving in and settling Legolas down was a very mature thing to do. It remains to be seen if Thranduil noticed that part! That little fiasco will be entertaining the the subjects for decades. Yes, nothing like finding out the lordly king can't control his own children. I remember when the former head of my company gave his big farewell speech. He brought his wife and his four or five kids; and throughout the entire speech three of his kids were running around the podium knocking over flag stands, and one of them kept trying to drown himself in the decorative fountain. We loved it. He was not as steady on his feet as he could have been, but he was still certain he could dive closer to the wreath than Ganion had. Yikes. It's a good thing Elves are immortal. This has "Rehabilitation Institute of Mirkwood" written all over it. It's fun seeing Eilian just having fun, though. Naked.

ponypetter · 25 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

It was funny that the first thing I thought of when the elves settled around to eat with plates in their laps was that Legolas was going to drop his. It's actually a principle of physics, and explains why I still find old french fries in the oddest places. I thought the scene where Legolas curses was hilarious, especially that Thranduil seems to know immediately who the culprit was.

sofia · 25 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

Poor Eilian! Of course Thranduil would know Legolas heard that from him. I wonder how angry Thranduil will be. And it certainly wasn't Legolas' day. First he couldn't stay with the horses, then he couldn't keep the stick sword, then his blanket never made it, he drops his plate of food, and utters uncivilized words in front of a village. And he couldn't play with the other children until the next day.

Bodkin · 25 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

Dawn is far from cracking - and I can't resist gleefully saying how enjoyable this is. Or remarking in horror that I was, yesterday, coming up with a very similar clothes-stealing scene!! It was as inevitable as the fact that it will eventually get light that Legolas was going to come out with 'orc spit' at the most inconvenient (if appropriate) moment. And it's quite possible that the villagers are much more easy with their children physically, when it comes to wandering - but much more moralistic about - er - lapses of language. But then, equally, what a moment of joy for a hard-pressed parent of small kids to learn that the king, for all his power, can't be in complete control of his innocent little fair-haired elfling. Probably a diplomatic success on its own. With all the females left feeling protective to the pair of them. Eilian was so good at dealing with this - and at telling Legolas he was being a guard rather than a prince - and at watching him - and at understanding that the brat has to know where everyone is - and at releasing him just enough to play with others while staying close enough to keep him feeling safe. I sometimes feel like screaming at the lack of acknowledgement he gets for things like this. He is largely responsible for Legolas growing up into the elf he did - Ithilden is great on discipline, Thranduil is terrific on frazzled parental care, but Eilian is the one who can love the brat unconditionally and let him try his wings - but be there with a staunch but unintimidating support when things go wrong. He learned a lot from his naneth. I'd have brought Eilian into the family tent, despite guard protocol - on the simple who-will-Legolas-disturb-at-night principle. If he wanders to search for his family, then have all the family in the same tent. And Eilian can become the blanket substitute. Perhaps Ithilden needs to put Legolas on a leash - so that he knows exactly where he is at all times. I think he might find it harder to leash Thranduil though. And Ithilden is a bit of a spoilsport. I know he's worried, but still - positive reinforcement, Ithilden! Stop being so negative - and try diversion. It works wonders. If Legolas is brushing a horse, you know where he is and what he's doing. (Elfling Sinnarn should be very thankful that his Adar had the chance to learn a thing or two about the care of the young. Pony is right. Ithilden was born 347. I'll bet he never repeated a mistake. Even if he made one in the first place. Lorellin must have despaired about him - much as Thranduil does about Eilian.) I was afraid for a moment that Eilian taking his attention off the brat could be a mistake, but Legolas has already got his thing for maidens who look after children and is happy being managed. Although I'm sure he'll disappear from camp at some point in search of his new friends. Eilian, on the other hand, has found an old friend. And, it would seem, one of the old friends who had his parents tearing out their hair. The whole going to the Glade in his smalls seems the kind of activity that is fraught with disaster. Adar would sooooooo not have appreciated that. And the Webbing Incident - even the aftermath is an example of Eilian's reckless courage. Rambling. But I loved this and am looking forward to the next part.

esamen · 24 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

"Thranduil washed Legolas’s hands and face in water from the ewer someone had left in the tent. He helped Legolas dress, and then the child sat quietly on his cot while Thranduil and Ithilden readied themselves for the feast. Thranduil took Legolas’s hand and the three of them left the tent to find Thranduil’s advisor and most of their escort gathered in the camp’s center." Oh, this is such a tender scene. I love it. Thranduil is truly noble in his fatherly care for Legolas. I just love a father who tends his flock. And the "Orc-spit" moment was great too. Oh yes, don't we all know that feeling too well. And as far as what readers like . . . I really like Thranduil coming to rescue Legolas and take care of him. You've been very generous with such scenes in your past fics. I love them all. Thank you. Come to think of it, I love Thranduil taking care of any of his sons. I also like Thranduil galloping off to battle, Thranduil bathing in Rivendell, and Thranduil getting angry at anybody. I guess I'm a Thranduil kind of girl. Please write more! Can't wait for Chapter Four! Happy typing, esamen

The Karenator · 24 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

“Are we there, Ada?" Ah, the age old question. Are we there yet? It's in the childcare rule book for traveling. This question must be asked and repeated every fifteen minutes beginning five minutes from home. This line just cracked me up. Everything started out so well and then tragedy struck: no blanky. Nimloth obviously didn't pack Legolas's duds. She was busy at home with her wounded husband. She'd never have let Legolas leave without his special blanky. Never! She'll have someone's head when the word gets out. I bet Legolas was thrilled to get to sleep in the same tent as Ada and Ithilden...even without blanky. Too bad Eilian isn't with them. If Ithilden had been smart, he'd have put Eilian--guard or not--in the tent too. Knowing Legolas's habit to wander and check on people, having Eilian with them would have cut down on the chances the little one would escape. But they're male and all into protocol. I'm sure this never crossed Ithilden's mind. It wouldn't be the proper thing to do when Eilian's acting as a guard. Don't you just love it when your child repeats back exactly what they heard and uses it appropriately. It's like they come programmed for the eventual use of socially unacceptable curse words. Of course they try it out at the worst possible time too. My youngest was watching TV when he was little...two maybe. Whatever he was watching must have been quite stunning. He stood staring at the screen completely captivated and uttered his amazement: "Sum of a bish". Hmm.m.m. Not one of my sayings. What does a mother do? Me? I laughed my butt off...in another room and never said a word. I hoped he would forget it if I didn't make a big deal out of it. Now that he's 17, he's got it right. I bet every parent has these stories to tell and I can't help it, I share in their horror and laugh like a hyena. You certainly kept the tension tight in this chapter. Every time Legolas drifted two feet away, I was on the edge of my seat. Then you'd reel me in and do it again. And I fell for it every single time. I love it! Excellent. Eilian's little adventure was fun. The spider web one...though charging into The Glade in nothing but his shivvies was probably more fun for me. The web trip backfired, but then, most of Eilian's stunts backfire. I think he said himself that he's slow but he does learn. Yep, yep, yep. But if he were any other way, he wouldn't be Eilian, and he's endearing just the way he is...except to Thranduil. Wonderful chapter. I'm looking forward to more. Karen

emjo · 24 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

Oh I loved this chapter! Poor little Legolas he leaves behind his special blanket and then has trouble with his dinner. And I love Eilian all the more for jumping in to help his little brat. Oh and the flashback cracked me up! I can't wait to read the next chapter, great job Daw!

Manderly · 24 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

Oh I loved this chapter! Nimloth is being missed already, and how many more days do they have in this village? I guess the family is not too established yet in their care of Legolas, except maybe for Eilian. What were Thranduil and Ithilden thinking of letting the kid cut up his own meat on a seesawing plate? It's not an easy feat even for an adult. Orc spit! The timing was priceless! I can imagine the much more colourful curses going through Thranduil's mind at that particular moment. Instead of admonishing Eilian for educating Legolas in the less refined ways, Thranduil should thank him for pre-empting an elfling hissy fit. Somehow I knew the blanket would be left behind and I see a elfling tandrum coming up. Ithilden is right to have fears that everybody might not survive this packing omission. Never leave home without that special blanket. The flashbacks of Eilian's adventurous youth were highly entertaining!

Dot · 24 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

I knew there’d be some trouble as soon as I saw the chapter title! So they’ve arrived. Yay! I felt a little sorry for Legolas being handed from one person to the other, but I guess it’s all exciting for him. I love that even the warriors include him. It does seem a little easy for Legolas to slip away, though… ;-) “Be careful! And do not run with that in your hand.” I did cringe at that. Poor Legolas. It’s just a stick! I’d love Ithilden’s warriors to hear Legolas tell him that he’s being mean and he’s going to tell Ada on him!! I like the way Eilian is so nonchalant about his role here in front of Legolas so that it’s not a big deal for him that his brother isn’t staying with them. But ack! They forgot the blanket! In fairness, he really was quite brave about it. But let’s hope he doesn’t wander off to check on Eilian or to go and sleep in his bed… By they way, I just love the idea of them all sharing a tent! They’re never all together like this. Well, except in battle. Life here must look so different to Legolas. I imagine the elflings would be a great attraction, even though he has friends at home. These ones would know different games. His father might say he was too impatient to be a good diplomat, but he could charm almost anyone when he chose to. That made me smile! I love charming!Thranduil :-) LOL at Legolas eating with his fingers. Like Ithilden, I could see that plate falling and then: “Orc spit!” he cried. ROTFL! What a moment! I felt the worst for Eilian. *snigger* I thought they all recovered quite well. Eilian was great in rescuing the situation. Not that that will help him. But then, they’re representing the House of Oropher and I like to think of him as the kind of guy who would yell “Orc spit” if he dropped his plate at a party… I’m intrigued by this maiden and the elflings and wondering what part they’ll play in the story… He went diving when he was drunk??! *tsk* I’m still laughing at the image of Eilian in his drawers and sword belt. “She will be able to see your sword,” one of them jibed, “but I do not think Roniel will be intimidated.” LOL! Not intimidated, but impressed maybe ;-) So that’s what happened with the webbing. It’s actually kind of a clever plan! Just not very worthy of warriors… I nearly fell off my seat when the spider appeared. You’d think I’d have suspected something like that, but I really didn’t! That was very tense. And icky. I can only image having to explain how he happened across the spider. But even his father seems to have known about the outrageous behavior with the webbing. Eilian’s not really going to try to get revenge, is he? And they’re not going to let a stranger take care of Legolas, are they? That elfling needs to be watched closely, I think! (And Eilian needs to get back in his father’s good books somehow). Wonderful as always, and I’m looking forward to more :-)

elliska · 24 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

Love the very title! Oh it all starts so innocently, with Legolas helping clear the sticks and groom the horse. Poor Ithilden had a moment's panic there. But the, "You are being mean,” he declared. “I am going to tell Ada." absolutely cracked me up. That is so something I can hear this child saying. Poor Ithilden! And Legolas did it too! And then it started unraveling--Eilian not sleeping with them; no blankie. gave him points for bravery in the face of what must have seemed to him to be a disaster. *Snort* Legolas's observation about Eilian's attire was very dear--one of the things I love about these stories is simple observations like this about things like that in Legolas's life. And then I was reading along happily enjoying how cool Thranduil was with the village leader and how cute the reminder to use silverware was...until I got to the part where the plate began to slide. I am still laughing! Oh my! Representing the House of Oropher, indeed! Daw you are evil. And you have obviously been a parent. Thranduil must have died! You have to give Eilian some credit--he really did step up and take care of the problem. But somehow I doubt that is going to save him. So the next morning he avoided Thranduil. Imagine that! The flashback was a riot too! You know this had to happen at some point. How kind of his friend to convince her to leave his drawers! But the spider part was very well done. Icky! I hate that they talk. I must say, I was very relieved when Ithilden arrived and asked for Legolas and he was still in sight. I expected much worse. I'm sure we'll get it eventually. Great chapter daw! And thanks for the birthday wish. :-)

French Pony · 24 September 2005 · Chapter 3: Representing the House of Oropher

Okay, ten bucks says Ganion is now married to Roniel. The Law of Narrative Comedy and the Law of Conservation of Characters both practically demand this. Looks like everyone's doing fairly well here. I had to snerk a little at the idea that Legolas was not allowed to have a stick, but he was allowed to have a knife sharp enough to slice meat with. I certainly wasn't allowed to have a sharp knife when I was four, but I was allowed to have sticks. Everyone handled the "orc spit" incident well, especially since it was really the grownups who caused it in the first place by expecting such a little kid to slice roast meat on a plate on his knees by himself. I think that "orc spit" is an entirely appropriate response to such a situation. And it shows how well Legolas is coming with language acquisition that he can hear an expression like that and know how, when, where, and why to use it. It's also a good thing that the villagers are used to small children being small children. I think most people are far more willing to let other people's children exhibit childlike behavior than their own. Of course, the blanket isn't around. Who'd think to pack that other than someone who puts a child to bed regularly? Eilian may be getting a regular visitor to his tent. And twenty years earlier, Eilian learns just why Eru Iluvatar invented the Speedo. Silk drawers on a wet body are practically worse than nothing.

meckinock · 24 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories

I'm interested in finding out what it is that has Eilian so guilt-wracked. So far it seems as if he was remarkably obedient to Maltanaur on the ill-fated scouting mission. He's tense as a bowstring. Can't wait to see what happens when he lets loose. I liked the way this chapter examined his relationship with his father from Thranduil's perspective. It's fascinating how they both want to make the relationship work but can't figure out how to do it. Thranduil's scrutiny of Eilian and his worry for him was genuine, but Eilian reads it as interference. The flashback to Eilian's first battle was hysterical, though. I loved Lorellin's deadpan "Good for you." And it was hugely enjoyable seeing Ithilden and Thranduil at odds. It was restrained and mature and entirely in character with each of them. I laughed at Thranduil's observation that he's no more willing to indulge Ithilden than he is Legolas. And I liked seeing Ithilden sloshing his wine cup. He's a little set in his ways, and Thranduil seems to get kick out of reminding him who's king every once in a while. Poor guy; he's worried sick over Eilian and now Ithilden is giving him attitude. But Thranduil dodged that pony issue pretty well, though. Maybe he and a dozen warriors really can handle Legolas. Hehe.

moonshine44 · 23 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories

It`s been a long time since I have read fanfiction. Mostly because I`ve been busy. But when I saw that you had another story, I knew I had to read it. I`m very happy to see that Eilian is a big part of this so far. He is my favorite OC out of any fanfiction story I`ve read. This is great, and I can`t wait to read the next chapter. Until then, bye!

ponypetter · 23 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories

I loved most the conversation between Ithilden and Thranduil. I could totally see Ithilden's frustration with the situation. Now the whole family's going! It's always nice to see Eilian and Ithilden flashbacks. We don't know as much about them as children, and short though they are, these little glimpses are great.

ponypetter · 23 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

The scene between Legolas and Eilian was cute as all get-out. I love that Legolas chose to join Eilian, and not Ithilden or Thranduil, when he knew for sure the other two would be home, if not necessarily asleep! Those two work too hard. Legolas and Eilian have a special relationship. I guess Eilian wants to be a kid as much as Legolas wants to be a grown-up. It works out for them! And Eilian and Ithilden...going at it again... Loved it!

thechevin · 23 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories

Oh dear the family Thranduil is going through a really rough time and everyone's nerves seem to be on edge. Eilian seems to feel guilt over what happened to Malantaur and I await with interest to hear more of that story. It is both amusing and sad to see that even when his minder is unconscious Eilian speaks more freely with him than his own father They really do not know how to speak to each other do they? Both bristle as soon as they come into contact with each other. At least Thranduil realises it even if he seems inapable presently of doing anything to remedy the situation and of ocurse it is clear he loves his son very much Ithilden is another worry, calm, collected, Ithilden is struggling with his own grief and guilt and is very touchy even arguing with his Adar (not to be recommended) Legolas at least seems contented here, he has all his remaining family around him and he knows just how to get his own way with all of them. Wicked Ithildn suggesting the pony, and wheedling Eilian to stay and read with him I thought Thranduil's attitude to Legolas learning to read showed what a good father he is all those centuries of practice have paid off even if he now has to learn to do it alone without the support of his wife Another lovely update thank you so much

Purplesmackers · 22 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories

Once again, wonderful chapter! I love how this chapter sort of focused on Eilian. He is my favorite character - I think in your stories, he is the one with the most humanistic qualities. He is such a well rounded character. It is so fun watching him grow and mature throughout this universe you have created. I loved the interaction you wrote between Eilian and Maltanaur. In past stories, you can definitely see the 'easy-going-ness' between the two characters, but I find that this chapter definitely gave a unique look into the relationship between these two. And poor Maltanaur! If I remember correctly, he was injured in the story that falls before this one (When Shadow Touches Home). This year...or I should say time period, is just not working out for Maltanaur! I think that elf needs a nice vacation. lol I also liked seeing the interaction between Thranduil and Ithilden. It is most likely just me, but most of the time it is really hard for me to figure out Ithilden. You know of his deep love of his family, and the range of responsibility he places upon himself when it comes to his duties, yet as a character, everything about him always seems so guarded. I love rereading sections written about him...for I find I could change my point of view and read different things into his actions. I liked the pony reference...it will be interesting to see Legolas get his pony. Having just reread 'When Shadow Touches Home', I am a little confused with this chapter. In that story, Thranduil states how Legolas is ready for a pony, yet in this chapter it seems he is thinking just the opposite. I am sure I am just confusing myself here... But my favorite interaction between characters is between Eilian and Legolas. With them being so far apart in age, they seem to complete each other perfectly. It is as if they both find balance when they are around each other. I love how they both love each other so strongly, and it is so apparent, yet it is as if they do not quite realize the other feels the exact same way. Finally (since I feel I am just rambling here...) I loved the flashback of the young warrior Eilian coming home from his battle with the spiders. The funny thing is that the way that you wrote Eilian in this flashback is exactly how I could see Turgon turning out if he would have made it to his first battle as a warrior. It is fun to think about - with how Eilian and Turgon's behavior sort of runs in parallel. Anywho, wonderful chapter, great story, and looking forward to more as always.

sofia · 22 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories

another lovely chapter. It should be really interesting on who will care for Legolas when he goes on the trip and what he might make of it.

Yanic · 22 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories

Oh boy this little trip is going to be quite an affair! I can't wait to see what happens. I'm also really curious about Maltanaur, and I like how this chapter shed a bit of light on him. So he has a wife? Although at his age, it's probably to be expected. And now Nimloth can't come and Eilian and Thranduil are butting heads. This is really going to be some trip!

esamen · 22 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories

Hello !!! I am so glad to be back in Legolas-land again. I bet all your readers are thrilled to have another visit. You sure are letting Eilian be a snot. Was he really that impolite when he was young? And now he's almost cost Maltanaur his life? You should have let little Legolas kick him. Here's a little something I'm including for all of us to grin about. It's not Tolkien at all, but it's funny. I hope you enjoy. I'm ordering the Jackasspirin. Breaking Research: NEW DRUGS FOR WOMEN D A M N I T O L Take 2 and the rest of the world can go to hell for up to 8 full hours. ST. M O M M A'S W O R T Plant extract that treats mom's depression by rendering preschoolers unconscious for up to two days. E M P T Y N E S T R O G E N Suppository that eliminates melancholy and loneliness by reminding you of how awful they were as teenagers and how you couldn't wait till they moved out. P E P T O B I M B O Liquid silicone drink for single women. Two full cups swallowed before an evening out increases breast size, decreases intelligence, and prevents conception. D U M B E R O L When taken with Peptobimbo, can cause dangerously low IQ, resulting in enjoyment of country music and pickup trucks. F L I P I T O R Increases life expectancy of commuters by controlling road rage and the urge to flip off other drivers. M E N I C I L L I N Potent anti-boy-otic for older women. Increases resistance to such lethal lines as, "You make me want to be a better person .Can we get naked now?. BUYAGRA Injectable stimulant taken prior to shopping Increases potency, duration, and credit limit of spending spree. J A C K A S S P I R I N Relieves headache caused by a man who can't remember your birthday, anniversary, phone number, or to lift the toilet seat. A N T I-T A L K S I D E N T A spray carried in a purse or wallet to be used on anyone too eager to share their life stories with total strangers in elevators.. N A G A M E N T When administered to a boyfriend or husband, provides the same irritation level as nagging him

Dot · 22 September 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories

Oh, great chapter. The quarrelling is leaving me a bit on edge but it’s fascinating to watch them all try to adjust and to try not to let normality be a challenge to them. Eilian does seem bored. And the more he thinks about it, the unhappier he’ll become. His worry about Maltanaur is probably making him restless too. I was glad he decided against going into Ithilden’s office. That would not have been wise! I really liked the scene in the infirmary. Eilian’s tenderness and guilt are really touching. I love the way he speaks to Maltanaur – just like talking to a friend. I’m really curious now about what happened. Elian obviously received the shock of his life when his keeper was so badly hurt. "Surely you recall learning how captains react to warriors not returning when they are expected?” LOL. I should think that’s something that Eilian is very familiar with. I always enjoy seeing the relationship between Eilian and Maltanaur. Maltanaur lets Eilian know that he recognises his strengths – and Eilian has always needed a certain amount of praise – and he does so in a very matter-of-fact way. By not being negative about him all the time, Maltanaur ensures that Eilian has greater respect for his opinions when he does decide to say no. Plus, Maltanaur generally has a good reason for doing/not doing something and lets Eilian know. I think that’s where Thranduil (and Ithilden, although he manages a bit better) goes wrong a lot of the time. He tells Eilian to grow up, but treats him as a child. It seems to me that for all his sensitivity and wood-elfiness, Eilian needs a logical reason for things and a “because I said so” answer will just make him resentful. Sorry, I’m rambling… So… Maltanaur and Eilian split up. Hmm. I’m dying to know what happened then. Maybe it turns out that Maltanaur doesn’t always know best. Although, Eilian certainly feels pretty guilty. Nindwen! The poor thing. At least she has her daughter, I guess. “Look, Ada. I painted a picture of the pony you are going to get me.” LOL! Nice one, Legolas. I just loved that scene with the whole family. Such tension! No-one is outright arguing but the comments and the way they try to get the better of each other is just great. I actually caught my breath in that moment when Legolas tells Eilian that he’s going on the trip. “Perhaps Nimloth will agree to look after me, so I can go too.” *cringe* I can’t blame Thranduil for wanting to slap Eilian and Ithilden. I’ve never seen them all like this at the same time – and I’m enjoying it immensely!! The little part about helping Legolas to read made me a bit teary, though. I really like Thranduil’s acceptance that the child will learn when he’s ready. That’s a nice attitude. Clever elfling, though, knowing exactly how to get his big brother to stay home with him. I like Eilian’s solution. He’ll make a good Ada some day. “We will come back,” he said mildly, “so you should talk fast.” *choke* Sometimes I wonder that he survived at all, though! Showing cheek to Thranduil… I guess no-one can question his bravery anyway! So Eilian does get to go too?! Yay! You know what the elves need? Someone to write fiction. I’m sure there’d be a market for it. Then they wouldn’t have to read about Numenor at bedtime. You’d think there’d at least be children’s books… Perhaps he should have insisted that Ithilden tell Eilian tonight that he would be one of the guards for the trip to the village. Ithilden had wanted to follow the chain of command and tell Eilian’s captain and have the captain tell Eilian. I’m not sure Ithilden was right. I can understand the way he wants to do it, and it’s technically the correct way, but he had a means of stopping his brother feeling hurt here and he didn’t do it. I’m kind of feeling bad for Ithilden in this story, actually. Thranduil is worried about Eilian and Legolas but I don’t know if Ithilden is doing all that well either. He’s used to being confident and in control but now he, understandably, wants to protect his family as much as possible and yet Thranduil seems to be taking that away from him, whether he means to or not. It seems that Ithilden has become a little more needy in terms of Thranduil’s approval of his decisions, yet at the same time he wants to show his old self-assurance and confidence in his decision-making. Thankfully we know he become himself again but at the moment he seems a little… torn. Or edgy maybe. That probably makes no sense to anyone but me! I loved the flashback to Eilian and his parents. It’s wonderful seeing him so happy – as Eilian is meant to be – but at the same time we see the beginning of a lot of things, such as his relationship with Maltanaur, his talent as a scout, and his dealings with those in authority. Thank heavens for Lorellin explaining so simply that he’d do a better job of proving his ability by showing it than by trying to persuade Ithilden to do anything. She put a stop to it just like that. Unless you counted the outrageous behavior with the webbing, of course. ??! Tell me more! Nimloth’s not going?? Uh-oh. Thranduil, Ithilden, Eilian and half a dozen warriors will not be able to do her job. I can’t wait! “We can manage,” he vowed. “I am sure you can,” Eilian said coolly. See, he should have been told before it looks like he’s only being brought as a babysitter. Oh well. Things will sort themselves out in another couple of centuries. I’m really looking forward to you getting this lot on the road :-)