Reviews (181)

Fantaisa · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

Daw, I have never review one of your stories, but your Mirkwood universe is one of my favorites. I love your stories, I keep reading once in while, and have always a “lovely time” when reading, thank you very much for sharing your stories with us. This new fic was fantastic, you are a wonderful writer. When you finally have your original novel published, please have a post in this site to let us know, I will run to the bookshop to buy it. My favorite stories in when Legolas is a novice, and of course I would love to see more fics about that time. I always wanted to ask about Eilian first scoting trip to Dol Guldur. If I remember the other warrior was killed, and I don’t remember Maltanaur being with him, anyway, you never wrote about that, I really would like to read it, and yes, I’m another of Eilian’s fans. Someone has already asked you writing about Legolas family reaction after his decision to go with the fellowship and when he comes back after the War. I think that will be funny to see Ithilden in Gondor or Rohan and people recognizing him for being Legolas brother and not the other way around, as usual. I’m at work now, so I can write too much, but please, never stop writing about Mirkwood, even when you become a best seller writer (I’m sure that you will). Thanks, Fantasia

Matt · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

I have read (though not reviewed as I couldn't figure out how to do so until recently) most of your stories and liked this one as much as most of the others. Your characters are very well drawn and their situations and ways of doing things are clear, consistent and develop appropriately as they grow and change. Though I know that there are people who like the Turgon character, I have never enjoyed him because he both seems too undisciplined and too thoughtless of how his actions impact others. I know that there are many children (particularly boys) who are like this but (male though I am), I have never felt comfortable with the "boys will be boys" response to children that so many of us have. Still, he is an important character in many ways and his part--along with those of all of the others--is certainly integral to your vision of Legolas' growth. I hope that yo continue to do more stories in this universe (though I am not sure where else you could go to get multi-chapter ones at this poitn) and thankyou again for a thoughtful and well-written tale. Matt

elliska · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

I am being a bad employee and reading at work, since I taught last night... And that might have been a bad move because something about the end of this brought tears to my eyes. Thranduil and Lorellin together were so sweet and it is sad to know where that is going so soone. And to think of all the things she is going to miss--like Annael's mother being so important to Legolas and Eilian/Celuwen (her help really would have been good there). So sad. I love the family atmosphere in this--Eilian's dismay at how Legolas is writing, Lorellin's story to make her point to Eilian, a nice ride in the forest. Very nice to see. Great story daw! I hope you write another one soon. :-)

erunyauve · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

>>The letters were wobbly but clear: 'Legolas.' Oh! I remember this from the story about Annael's mother. I ought to re-read some of those older stories again. >>Turgon scrambled onto a bench and jumped off. Legolas climbed after him, with Annael right behind. Eilian glanced at Annael's mother. Seeing her continue to look serene, he relaxed. Heh - I can identify with that. I always had visions of broken necks when I babysat. Real parents are so much more relaxed - they've figured out that the kids don't break that easily. >>Gelmir's mother often asked herself the same sort of question. Yes, I can imagine. >>Eilian sat utterly still. Did he blame himself? Through his mind ran a rapid string of scenes: himself realizing where the orcs were, signaling, speaking to Maltanaur, hearing Gelmir and Fithral approaching, watching the forest floor collapse and take Fithral with it. >>He sighed. "When I think about it, I know I did everything I could, so I know I am not to blame." >>She seemed to consider that. "Perhaps knowing is not the same thing as feeling." That's the difficult part - convincing the heart. Lorellin seems to have put Eilian on the right path, at least.

mistry89 · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

What a delightful addition to your arc. I particularly like Legolas' "voice". The sense of danger is embedded in the story, and future grief - if that makes sense in what seems to me to be primarily a window on attempting to deal well (well, to try to deal) with loss. Elflings and sub-texts they may be aware of but do not understand make it easy for the poor human mind to empathise. Thank you!

annie · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

Daw, I just wanted to let you know that I have read all your legolas stories amd have looooved them all very much. They are without a doubt my favourite fanfiction. Please dont stop, reading them over and over brightens my day and new stories are a very big bonus.

Noor · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

Thank you so much for this moving story that speaks volumes about the influence of Lorellin on her family and illustrates all the relationships within the family. I really enjoyed seeing young Legolas's friendship with Annael and Turgon developing. This story really underlines their future loss...at least in this story despite the shadow Lorellin's family are together and their love for each other is apparent. Noor

insignia · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

Hi daw, thank you for another great story. I like little Legolas - pretty cuddly, I'm sure, and much less hardy and tested than the older one! And nice to see his nana and ada interacting, too. I like also how you manage your characters, so we see them developing through your stories. We have a young and less confident Eilian, Gelmir struggling to cope with shadow, Elowen being a responsible young parent, and some markers for what is to come in the next stage of Legolas's life when we hear about his mother's daring past, her missing her family and her plans for her next trip. Bit puzzled about why Legolas in this chapter had two visitors, who then get reduced to Turgon ...? So what is next in your saga? Another young Legolas, or back to adulthood? Personally I would like your take on how the fellowship got on and on what happened after the events of RotK. But whatever it turns out to be I shall read with great delight I am sure! Thanks once again.

Marie · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

That was a wonderful story. It was good to get a glimpse of how life was like for the royal family of Mirkwood at a time when all its members were still there. I like Lorellin alot, and it is an almost unbearable thought that she will not be with them much longer. Your imagery is excellent, I especially enjoyed chapter 4. "Trouble lay thick in his heart". I could almost sense a sort of mistlike worry laying claim to THranduil. And of course the elfling-game. As others have said it is a great woodelf thing to think up! But what stood out most for me, was little Legolas having to push at his heart to keep it in his breast at the end of story, because his beloved older brother was doing really scaring things! The action in these last chapters was excellent too. You show very nicely the different reactions of everybody, instead of just telling us how they are feeling. The three elflings on the ledge was a good example. Anyway, I could probably go on for quite some time. Thank you for this story Daw, I can never get enough of your Mirkwood-tales. Marie

Elena Tiriel · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

Daw, This is a thoughtful and insightful story, though it made me scared more than once... two cliffies in a row left my fingernails chewed down to the quicks! But it tugged at my heartstrings even more, especially knowing what's to come. You have so clearly shown how central to the entire family Lorellin was. I wish she wasn't going to visit her relatives quite so soon... it is soooo obvious that she is loved and truly needed... as she loves and needs her family. And they all need time to recover from almost losing Legolas. I love how much she shares with Eilian... she is the one person who really understands him. Who would have thought that the Queen had such a wild childhood? And I also love the little bits about how Celuwen kept her childhood friend from doing the more stupid things he might have otherwise attempted.... And Legolas, Annael, and especially Turgon are such amazing prototypes of the adults they will become (except Turgon, of course, who won't quite make it...). I have read (many times) all your stories from the beginning, Daw. You started as a good author, and have grown so very much since. I am in awe of your ability to describe the intricate bonds between your characters, and to make each one so distinct and so real and so fascinating. There were so many excerpts to like about this story, but the one quotation that struck an incredibly sad and profound chord with me is: I am coming, sweetling, she thought. I will always come. *sob* - Barbara

Kate · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

I'm not sure if it was harder for me to read this because it's the end or because Lorellin is about to die. As always, this story was a pleasure to read. You were not joking when you said this chapter would tie up the lose ends! "Ithilden had been upset enough about being too big to go into the cave " LOL! I'm getting this picture of him yelling at the rocks. "Of course, Eilian had spent the evening in his parents' sitting room too, with no desire to leave and find his friends." Prefect. I loved how close they all were in this story. Thranduil’s protectiveness of those he loves is so touching. I'm very happy you decided not to kill Eilian so many stories ago! Thranduil has suffered too many loses, seeing him with his wife only reinforces that. ""Very well. I believe you." She patted his arm. "Remember those at home who love you, and stay out of rapids or whatever the equivalent is in that place. In the long run, you have to face your own feelings anyway." " I really liked how you showed with their relationship. What she said here is so different from what Thranduil would have said... it's so clear what all of them, Eilian in particual lost. You really explained Thranduil’s “you’re so like your mother at times” comment with some of Lorellin stories. ""There you are." Thranduil settled next to her, his eyes on the elflings. "I am free for the rest of the afternoon, and I hoped you and Legolas would go for a ride with me. Eilian too, if he is around."" Oh, soft/doting Thranduil! I love how he included Eilian! Also from the last chapter, the "two elfings" line was great! ""Thranduil, I have seen that map you and Ithilden spend all your time poring over. My family's village is within the safe area." " No wonder Ithilden felt responsible! Ouch. "Besides," he whispered in Legolas ear, "Nana is worth waiting for, do you not agree?" " I loved that exchange. I loved this story and am sorry to see it end. The ending of chapter seven was so sweet and the interaction between all the characters was amazing (as always). I particularly liked how you foreshadowed her death with her advice to Eilian, approval of Legloas's friends and the time with Thranduil. Do you expect to write another story while she is alive again? Additionally, have you considered writing about Lorellin and Thranduil in Valinor or about Legolas's return after the ring is destroyed? Best line: ""Are you sure he should be playing with Turgon?" Thranduil asked. " It took me a minute to recover from laughing. If only they had foresight. Nice to see that Lorellin has some concerns about Turgon's parents. Looking forward to the next story! Kate PS One line I think I forget to mention before that I liked from chapter one was: " even more maddening, he did not seem to notice when Thranduil tried to intimidate him into silence." One other question, the rune Thranduil gave Eilian in The Warrior, what was its significance?

Purplesmackers · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

Hi Daw! It is great seeing yet another story from you! This is my favorite story universe that I have ever followed. I especially enjoyed reading this story, since up until now, we never got a really good idea about Legolas' mother. After finishing this story, I went back and reread 'When Shadow Touches Home', and by reading this story, it added so much more emotion to that story. My favorite part of reading this story was that every time Lorellin thought or talked about wanting to visit her family, I would cringe, or want to reach into the story and knock some sense into her! lol You are a wonderful author, Daw, and I look forward to many more stories from you. My only question left unanswered, and I was slightly disappointed in not finding out the answer in this story is...what did Legolas do to not be allowed to go along with Lorellin to visit her family? Hopefully at some point, we will learn what the tantrum was about. lol Even though, you have once said you would have no idea how to write a sequel of sorts for 'A Question of Duty', I am still holding out hope that one day you will enlighten us all with such a story. I would love to read about how Legolas' family reacts to him not returning with Beliond, and of course the reaction of his family and friends when he did in fact return home. I am turning 30 in the next year, and hmm...such a story would be a great present..*hint hint*...j/k! :) ~Roni

Bodkin · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

I'm glad Lorellin has approved Elowen - and cottoned on to the weaknesses of Turgon's parents. But she shouldn't go and see her family! Thranduil should make more effort to keep her safe in the Stronghold! (Foreknowledge can be a terrible thing!) Although Lorellin knows perfectly well who is the right one for Eilian - he just needs a few more centuries to get the idea himself. She understands Eilian so much better than he understands himself. And certainly better than Thranduil does. Legolas's delight at having a friend call for him is so charming! And Eilian is very mature in deciding that he needs to keep a firm eye on his little brother - at least until Naneth turns up, when he can go off to collect his winnings! A lovely story of happiness and family togetherness. But the black cloud is far too close.

DJ · 11 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Family

Hi, Daw. Wonderful to have another story from you! I keep wishing you would write more, because I love your stories so much. But I do understand that your writing time is taken up with original fiction--I just hope it gets published so I can go buy it and read it. And I don't care if it's YA fiction; I _love_ YA fiction. This story is funny, exciting, scary, and heartbreaking all at the same time. I love seeing Legolas make friends outside of his family for the first time. Anneal and Turgon and Legolas together for the first time. Anneal seemed shyer in this story than in ones set later, but I think that's natural for the beginning of a friendship. Turgon about broke my heart. He was so brave, and encouraging, and good-hearted, without any of the belligerent overtones that come out in stories where he is older. I really wanted to smack his mother upside the head for claiming she's watching the elflings, when she's really off in her own world. I wonder how much intervention Lorellin (or Thranduil if he knew) could have provided had she lived. Can the queen or king step in when they see parents ignoring their elflings? (I can't see elves physically abusing their elflings.) The elflings' ride down the river scared me. Even though I know they survive to appear in later stories, I did not want them to get hurt. The "glow worms" that lighted the river creeped me out. I don't care if the elves thought of them as beautiful stars; they're creepy, slimey worms that could have fallen on one of the characters at any time. Then Eilian decides to swim the river to find the elflings, and once he does, he has to leave to get help. Both sections of his swim were exciting, and his acrobatics to get back into the stronghold were incredible. You really surprised me when Lorellin decided she was going to pilot the boat down the river to rescue the elflings. And neither Eilian nor Thranduil could stop her! It shows how strong she is--somehow, I can't see Thranduil being attracted to an elleth with a doormat personality. It shows her maternal protectiveness--no one is coming between her and her "baby." I don't know if you intended it, but Lorellin's trip down the river reminded me that Tolkien said elvish society did not dictate traditional human-type roles for males and females--that each elf was free to choose the path that fufilled his or her own destiny. Lorellin was certainly competent in her handling of the boat, something that we (or at least I) thing of as a male role in a society that predates our own. This showed elvish society did give males and females equal opportunities. I loved the scene with Legolas tucked into bed between his parents. I know it was probably more to illustrate Thranduil's and Lorellin's need to reassure themselves their "bably" was safe, but I think it also reassured Legolas that his parents would always take care of him. If they'd put him to bed in his own room, I think all of them would have had nightmares about the river. It's heartbreaking to know that Lorellin won't be there much longer. She seems to really anchor the family together. Wonderful story! DJ

White Wolf · 7 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

Heroes, indeed. It's easy to see where Eilian gets his willingness to defy danger. When it comes to saving her child, Lorellin is just as determined to do whatever it takes, no matter how dangerous. More lovely detail. I see you finally found something that silenced Turgon. The scene with Thranduil, Lorellin and Legolas was very sweet and tended to bring out a big sigh and a smile from the reader; it did for me. :o)

French Pony · 6 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

Eilian and Lorellin really are two of a kind, aren't they? They both have that momma-bear quality about them. Even though Eilian knew the interior of the cave, and Lorellin didn't, nothing could stop a momma from being the one to go in after the kids in a greased kayak. Actually, the boat you described sounds like it would be a relatively pleasant ride under good conditions.

Dot · 5 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

Heroes indeed. Lorellin rocks! I love the voices of the three elflings. They’re so distinct. And yet you can still see the friendship that’s taking root there. Eilian’s journey back was incredible. Showing his thoughts like that worked so well. I particularly like how he uses his senses to feel for the forest and get his bearings. And it was just as tense as the last chapter too! I was beginning to fear he’d have to come up with a new plan. Not to mention cringing for his poor numb self. And that part with him banging on the door with his feet was nerve-wracking. What a hero he is! He just keeps going too, doing what he needed. I thought it was interesting that his mother found him calmer than he had been all along. He’s needed now and is completely focused and knows he’s helping. Not to mention how dangerous it all is! Wow, I wouldn’t want to be the one trying to stop Lorellin once she’s made up her mind to do something! Not only is she a mother protecting her child but we get to see the headstrong, obstinate and daring side of her too. Reminds me of someone… ;-) The menfolk certainly seem to realise that they’d be better off not coming between her and her baby anyway. It also sounds like Lorellin was a bit of a Celuwen when she was younger! She would see them when she brought the little ones out at the water gate. I like that. There’s just no room for doubt here – this will work. I was so relieved when she spotted Legolas and then it turned out she wasn’t safely there after all. You have my nerves in shreds, daw. But she gets there in the end. And she’s so good with them. I laughed at her taking Legolas first even though she knows that she probably shouldn’t. Though something tells me even Thranduil himself might have struggled with self-control at that point :-) The most adorable part of the entire thing was Legolas telling her about his skinned knee so she’d make it better. LOL. "Annael should go next." Turgon's face was solemn. "Sometimes he is afraid." That Turgon is just such a loyal, selfless little person. Among many other traits… I’m loving him in this story. Safe! Oh thank the Valar! I can breathe again. I loved the part where Lorellin tells Eilian to stop doing stupid things. I imagine those are words that will come back to him in years to come when he starts to regain a bit of sense. But in the meantime they both know what that pull of excitement and restless impatience is like. I smiled my way through the last part, even knowing what’s to come for this precious family group. I can feel Thranduil’s relief and his protectiveness that’s as fierce as Lorellin’s. But for now Legolas is secure in his cocoon of love. He doesn’t need to hear the worry in Thranduil’s voice. Or the foreboding music in the background… I just love the image of them all curled up in a heap like that. I’m looking forward to the tying of threads!

perelleth · 5 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

Delicious tale with Mummy to the rescue! That was a nice point, while Eilian and Thranduil waited anxiously! But the part with eilian swimming in the dangerous current was superb, I cold feel his cold and exhaustion and worry... to end up with ooks's surprised reaction.. that was a nice use of that piece of canon, by the way, the river going underneath the strnghold and the trap used later by BIlbo and the dwarces... Lovely. I think that yu managed to bring Lorellin to the ight here, her relationship with Eilian and their likeness and how she managed to temper and also to redirect part of Thranduil's stern manner... They really really lost a worldwhen they lost her. But a good thing to see her so alive!

lwarren · 5 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

*gulps and breathes a sigh of relief* Wow, daw! That was some rescue! I loved heroic Eilian and Lorellin...they are SO much alike (I think I now understand Thranduil's frustration in other situations when he would think to himself how much like his naneth Eilian was...and how much that frightened him). And Turgon...what a delightful little rascal he is...I have been sad to read his sweet, maddening comments (and ideas) in this story and remember where these little quirks (coping skills?) of personality will lead him later. I love this story, daw...I need to go back and comment on earlier chapters if possible...they've all been so very vivid and tense and exciting and...well, you get the point! :-) I'm sorry to see it end. Linda

Idhreniel · 5 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

Wow... this chapter was so adventurous!!! We all know they were not going to die, but that does not mean they cannot get hurt!!! Favorite part: Laurellin calling Eillian's attention! Aahhaha Very cute the three of them in bed. Thranduil in her vision is just... divine.

Bodkin · 5 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

PS "You must be more careful, sweetling. I could not do without you." Irony! Irony, irony, irony. Ada said, "I love you too, Nana, and I think you must take care as well." "Yes." Legolas put his arm around Nana's waist. "Take care, Nana." Heartrending.

Bodkin · 5 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

Wonderful determined Lorellin yomping to the rescue of her baby! Thranduil had no chance of holding her back - especially once he had to admit (to himself at least) that her Olympic-gold-medal style canoeing skills were the most likely to pull off this rescue. And I love Eilian being forced to accept that someone else was going to do the business (and his silent appeal to his adar to keep Lorellin safe). Mind you, he had already performed his heroic act! Swimming that river - and struggling out to attract Cook's attention ... not to mention his desperate and most athletic twist through that trap door! Eilian's good qualities are very, very good! And I can see why this might well relieve the stress he's under. He does seem to need increasing doses of action to soothe his earlier distress. From Turgon's first encouraging "Swim hard, friend Eilian!" right through to the end, I loved it. So tense, so fast-moving - so frightening! The moment the elflings nearly leapt into the canoe in their enthusiasm to get to Lorellin! And Turgon is such a brave kid ... probably because this is not the first time he has found himself deep in danger ... and I just love him more and more! I wonder if he would have been better raised if Lorellin hadn't died when she did - she is the person who would have been in the best position to insist on a bit of change in Mirdaniel's household - and would have been the most likely person to include Turgon in the more disciplined royal household and see he benefited from some of Legolas's training. I love the finish! Both Eilian's reaction to his mother's words - he has a point - and the lovely Nana/Ada/little Legolas heap at the end. What better way for a child to feel secure than in the arms of his parents? "Come, little bird. I need you in the nest for a while." Beautiful words. Amid lovely tree images (- and water and star images, too). Delicious story.

Gwynhyffar · 5 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

I think I missed reviewing the last chapter. Sorry about that! It was nice to wake up to this :D and I had to comment before I left for work. I LOVE that Lorellin is the only person in the world that can get away will telling Thranduil "don't tell me no." Do not come between a mama and her baby! One would think he would know that by now. I love little Turgon!!!! You should do more early stories with him. 'Swim otter friends' 'We are sailors' He is the kid that you hate to love because every idea in his head is bad. But then when the natural bad results of his ideas come to fruition, he is the one who holds everything together. He's adorable in this story. I loved Lorellin telling Eilian to stop doing stupid things at the end too. Eilian, of course, has a snappy come back, but I don't think she found it all that funny really. Poor Annael. He seems to get pulled into these things. Of course he could say no, but when both of your friends are doing it, it's so hard to say no!!! Legolas is a bit of an enabler. Annael would (and eventually does) say no to Turgon's ideas, but he can't stand by it all the time because Legolas seems to find himself going along with the latest scheme. This is definitely the beginning of a strong but tragic friendship. You can see the seeds of later disasters already. 'Swim otter friends,' indeed. I love this story and am pretty sure you need about 10 more chapters - really long ones! :) Gwyn

Manderly · 4 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

Well, that was quite the adventure - white water rafting, Middle Earth style! And of course Lorellin should be the one to rescue the elflings. Thranduil may be the king, but Lorellin is the one wearing the leggings, at least in this chapter. If I were one of the elflings rescued, I'd be mightily impressed with her heroics. But then Eilian was pretty heroic too, braving frigid water and scrapes and bruises ending with that daring acrobatic feat into Cook's arms. Good thing he has had plenty of practice in that department. This mother and son make a very formidable team. Turgon might be a holy terror, but he certainly has a good heart. Foolishly brave, but good nonetheless. Just one more chapter to go? I will be sad when this story is over. It has been such a treat!

Blaise821 · 4 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes

I loved this chapter. First it shows Eilian at his reckless and heroic best, which you come to expect from him, but I loved it more for the second reason...Lorellin. To truly see an excerpt of how Eilian and his naneth are alike as is frequently stated was a joy to read. Lorellin was brave and stubborn and a tad reckless but you can see how her recklessness had matured; much like Eilian's in later stories. Her love for her children was such a vital part of her; it is a wonder they all survived her death. You have to imagine what their lives might have been like if she had lived and been there to guide them throughout. Though you can also argue that many of the hardships and miscommunications caused by her death also shaped them into the elves they became. Thanks for writing such wonderful works.