Reviews (129)

The Karenator · 8 October 2003 · Chapter 10: Just Deserts

Daw, What a grand conclusion. It came together just perfectly. When Thranduil snapped at Legolas to go to his chambers,"now", I was certainly ready to obey. I'm not sure Legolas really "got it" at that point. I, particularly, got a kick out of Ithilden seeing Alfirin. The palace is in a crisis and he meanders over to speak to her. And she has a dimple....he noticed. The boy is gone and just doesn't know it yet. The contrast in Eilian's expression when he killed Cadoc and when Ithilen looked at him and thought him more normal was excellent. You offered us another good look at the many facets of his personality and the many faces of a warrior. Ithilden was glad Legolas missed the whole death scene and I have to admit, I was, too. I was glad for the obvious reason that he is still so young, but I thought as I read that part that he was entirely too young to understand the many faces of his beloved brother. I think seeing Eilian so fierce may have been more frightening than seeing Cadoc die. Eilian seemed genuinely surprised and pleased at his new appointment. Ithilden and Thranduil handled the promotion well, giving Eilian praise and confidence in his abilities. Thranduil is very proud of his sons and it really showed in his words to Ithilden and Eilian. And Tinar is going to be changing company and Gelmir is getting his new sword! I'm so happy for him. His mother will be so proud. Thranduil handled his wayward son quite well. He was wise to take a breather before confronting him. It seemed as if Legolas was beginning to understand what his adar was trying to tell him and understood even better after he saw the warriors in the infirmary. We know that it doesn'take completely, but I suppose all learning and all experiences are just building blocks that will eventually construct understanding and behavior. I always enjoy your stories and this one was just as wonderful as the others. I'm looking forward to what you come up with next. Good show, Daw. Karen

naneth · 8 October 2003 · Chapter 10: Just Deserts

O.K., my stomach feels much better after this chapter! You resolved everything very nicely. But I had to laugh because you *never* get used to strong-willed children, no matter how many you may have! I'm glad that you made Alfirin stronger than the man expected and a fighter-good for her. I delighted in the scene of Legolas and his toy soldiers, especially that he is beginning to change the "hero's" name from Eilian to Legolas. I chuckled that Legolas was suprised that his adar was still angry with him. Children forget and forgive so quickly and don't understand why we grown-ups don't do the same. And hooray for you and Eilian-Gelmir finally gets his sword, even if he is too sick to enjoy it right now. Can't wait for your next story. Your mind travels to such wonderful, imaginative places in Mirkwood. Looking forward to seeing what this entertaining family will be up to next!

TolkienFan · 8 October 2003 · Chapter 10: Just Deserts

You're absolutely right! I FINALLY found the phrase when I dusted off my old thesaurus. (However, I do feel *slightly* less embarrassed to know that at least that usage of "desert" is pronounced like "dessert".) Thanks for educating me! Ah, the joys of English -- such an unruly language ... If you ever need an expert on chocolate mousse ... ;-} P.S. I couldn't wait until evening. Going to read your chapter now!

TolkienFan · 8 October 2003 · Chapter 10: Just Deserts

Hi Daw, Won't have a chance to read your chapter until this evening, but I wanted to mention something about its title: I believe that you mean "Just Desserts", not "Just Deserts", assuming you are referring to the English colloquialism that means something like "reaping what you have sown". If, instead, you were doing a sophisticated wordplay on "Desert" (an arid land), please forgive me my obtuseness. I'm really looking forward to reading it! P.S. I'm not an expert on writing, but I do know about making (and eating) desserts! My specialty is chocolate mousse ...

Strange Blaze · 8 October 2003 · Chapter 10: Just Deserts

another great ending. Thranduil was scary in the beginning of this chapter too, but I love how in the end he just wants to be Ada to his last baby. I liked seeing Alfirin again too. The scene between Ithilden and Thranduil was well-done also. Thranduil is scary, but it is easy to tell that he appreciates all of his children very much. Eilian is still himself, but it seems that even he is still growing up, much as Legolas is. I'm looking forward to your next story, as always. :)

TigerLily713 · 8 October 2003 · Chapter 10: Just Deserts

That was a lovely chapter. "Usually the captain was named ‘Eilian,’ but lately, he had begun to be called ‘Legolas.’" That was really subtley brilliant. You definitely have an understanding of the child psyche. I also love these short introductions of Alfirin and Ithilden. I'm wondering when Ithilden will begin losing sleep over it. Well done, I can't wait for more. Lily

Dot · 7 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

Woah, I think poor Thranduil has just about been pushed to his limits. I can’t believe he nearly struck Legolas – although I can certainly see how he could be tempted... Legolas seems a bit confused, doesn’t he, about how exactly he’s at fault. I think Eilian is right – he was probably sorry he was caught more so than anything, and sorry that he would get into trouble. As for “I would not lie!” – has he forgotten his escape the night before already?! I have to feel sorry for our elfling – methinks he’s about to learn a very hard lesson. Especially as Thranduil will know very well that he had no intention of confessing if not for the situation with the swords. I liked the scene with Eilian talking to Legolas. Sometimes it means more coming from a sibling than a parent. And if anyone knows about having to apologise to Thranduil, I’d say it’s Eilian… Great job on the scene with the interrogation. You do scary elves brilliantly. I especially loved the line “his tone shifting gradually from a purr to a snarl”. I mean, I’m a big fan of Thranduil and even I was quaking a bit! On another note – I’m glad Cadoc was caught if only for Ithilden’s sake. Maybe Thranduil will have a little more faith in him now. Bring on the next chapter!:)

Fadesintothewest · 7 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

AWww, was not too long for me! So it is coming to an end and legolas did indeed have to fess up to his role. I pity poor Legolas and the wrath he will incur from his angry father, and rightly so. Legolas, dear Legolas has a punishment coming in for me. Interesting enough, though Thranduil will have to take pause to consider that Legolas' disobedience gave him the evidence he needed.

Fadesintothewest · 7 October 2003 · Chapter 8: In the Dark

Oh my, I thought that Legolas and Turgon were going to get into bigger trouble! I am glad they didn't but I am curious to see where this story with that man goes and how Legolas is going to have to speak up to his Father about his sneaking out at night. Not a pleasant thing to do. You describe so vividly the details of Legolas doing something he knows he shouldn't but does anyway, the feeling in his stomach, the way he was slinking around. I remember those feelings. I was a relatively good kid but every once and a while you get in trouble!

Brenda G. · 6 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

Whoa! Somebody restrain the King! I was almost tempted not to read any further once Thranduil started heating up. But then when Legolas entered the room, oh, boy... I don't know who needs my sympathy most - the Man or Legolas. What really shook me up was Eilian's little talk with Legolas before they went to look for the hidden swords I was as shocked as Legolas to have Eilian explain that Thranduil was on the verge of physical violence against his own flesh and blood - not that you could blame him. This brazen disobedience from Legolas, directly upon the heels of his earlier misadventure (and the SAME misadventure, at that), would be enough to make anyone take a strap to the boy. Thank goodness that Legolas has some leverage because of his knowledge about the Man and the hidden swords, but that is the ONLY leverage he has. Despite how valuable the information, however, I don't think it will count much with Thranduil when it comes time for Legolas to take his medicine. Whew! The tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife. I will say this much for Legolas - he shows the makings of the elf he grows into because he ALWAYS puts the interest of others before himself, nor does he save his skin to the exclusion of all others when push comes to shove. Even though he has been a bad elfling, you have to admire the kid for that. So, Daw, will Turgon escape this time, as well? Will the Big Buck be allowed to live and be hunted another day in another story? What will Thranduil do to the Man? What will the Dwarves do to what's left of the Man once Thranduil is through with him? Will Legolas EVER get out of the dog house again? You've really got your work cut out for you, Daw, tying off the loose ends and trimming them up to bring this to completion, but you will. And you will do it in style, as usual. What a great read this has been. Dare I say I am drooling for the finish?? Post soon! Brenda G.

Jay of Lasgalen · 6 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

Daw, you update too fast! (and I never thought I'd say that about anyone) - it's just that I don't have time to review your chapters before the next one is up. Poor Legolas - I think he'll be for the high jump for this - Thranduil is *NOT* pleased about last night's excursion, is he? But it took courage to say about the man and the swords when it meant admitting where he'd been - I hope his father will acknowledge that. Jay

LKK · 6 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

I'm not sure how to feel about this chapter, daw. I'm glad that neither Rudd nor the dwarves are part of the phoney sword plot. It's good that Ithilden has been vindicated. I hope Thranduil remembers this. As for Legolas ... sigh ... it's good that his inner voice recognized the importance of the information he had and his princely conscious was willing to fess up to his misdeeds. I think I wrote in the last review that I didn't want to read the scene between father and son where the truth is "discussed". I still don't want to, which is probably why I don't know how to feel about this chapter and the upcoming one. But I will read it. Please ... be gentle. LKK

naneth · 6 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

Oh my, really, really ugly indeed! Thanks for updating so quickly, even if this chapter left my tummy tied in knots. You did a great job creating a very tense scene. I can so easily picture Thranduil moving his hand in his desire to strike Legolas-while at the same time he surely wanted to scoop him up and give him a huge hug. Parenting a strong-willed child is no picnic!

JustMe · 6 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

Well, I must say I admire the courage it took to admit to his indiscretion. Even though he knows he will be punished for disobeying, Legolas still had enough sense of duty and common sense to divulge the information he knew was vital to the investigation. I liked the way Eilian took his little brother aside and gave him advice on how to act properly when dealing with his father's wrath. Sounds to me like someone speaks from experience! Hopefully, Legolas will take his brother's advise. And hopefully, the information provided will prove important enough to calm Thranduil down a little bit before he doles out the punishment. But I have a feeling that this will not be the case. Maybe I should start baking those cookies now, 'cause I have a feeling that there will be an elfling in need of comfort very soon!

Elemmire · 6 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

Dare we hope the second one is close on its heels? I loved Eilian's talk with Legolas btw (both what was and wasn't said!) Elemmire

The Karenator · 6 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

Wow! I was on the edge of my chair from the beginning. Thranduil, with his finely tuned daddy radar, knew something was amiss with his youngest. Even Eilian was picking up something odd about Legolas's unusual fatigue. Will the elfling ever learn that he cannot get away with anything? The scene with the men was very good. It was tense and tightly done. Thranduil makes such an imposing figure and his oldest sons are very good with their supportive roles. I loved it when Eilian smiled and then wipe that grin off his face. And Ithilden commands with the flick of a finger. I envy him. I was glad to see Legolas come clean and it certainly must have been a difficult decision knowing he would be punished. But he was able to put the greater good over his own fears. Remind the king that the kid is not all bad. I suppose my favorite scene was with Eilian and Legolas in the garden. Eilian certainly seems to have experience with the errant son part. I can imagine that Thranduil has come close to wanting to beat the tar out of Eilian a few times. Eilian certainly recognized the signal when Thranduil brought his hand up. Would he have intervened? He was shifting restlessly. Still, I can't see Thranduil so out of control. It was also interesting that Eilian can recognize his father's desire to protect Legolas, but is less insightful when it's him. I would, also, like to know what brought him to his knees before his king and adar. The thoughts I got about him on his knees were not fit to be discussed with an elfling in attendance. I've just got to get out of the Eilian bathing mode. I'm beginning to get concerned about the mental health of a grown women trying to sneek peeks of a full grown, sculpted, long legged, long haired, piercing blue eyed...... Oh. The story......This chapter was one of my favorites. Everything is coming together and you managed it as skillfully as ususal. I'm looking forward to the last chapter. Karen

TolkienFan · 5 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

Whooooooo boy! Remind me not to get on your Thranduil's bad side, whether by naughtiness or by treason! Although, I do hope that Thranduil learns a few things: First, that Ithilden was correct in his judgement that the dwarves were not involved. Thranduil really needs to trust his son's excellent intuition, and to not step on his toes (by mustering troops without consulting him, for example). Second, that shielding Legolas from unpleasant truths about the Mirkwood situation isn't a good way to ensure his compliance, nor is it entirely possible. Legolas is too smart to not notice when tensions increase. Third, despite his fury at Legolas' disobedience, that it is still a lesser crime than the one perpetrated by Cadoc, and that indeed some useful information came of it. I hope Legolas learns what he needs to, as well. Sigh. I'm glad he recognized that admitting his disobedience, and thereby risking punishment, was a greater good than keeping quiet under the circumstances. (Almost makes up for lying to the guards last chapter ... but not quite.) That shows a foundation of integrity that I hope Thranduil recognizes. (Hmmm, I wish I knew what it was that caused Eilian to be so familiar with the concept of begging for forgiveness on his knees ... think you might write something about that sometime? Pretty please? Very few OCs are of such quality that they deserve their own story, but yours do.) And I keep thinking of Turgon ... guess he's just a lost cause. I did appreciate his loyalty to Legolas in the last chapter. Wonder if he will now be punished for his naughtiness, since it will probably come to the attention of the king? If so, it will probably be too little, too late. Unfortunately. Really looking forward to your next chapter! Thanks!

TolkienFan · 5 October 2003 · Chapter 8: In the Dark

Another excellent chapter! There is so much to like about this one, but since I'm reviewing after so many other smart folks, let me just mention two things that I thought were especially well-done (and haven't been covered already): First, the bits of information that Annael had about the Home Guard, that it "might be going somewhere", and that “My adar says that I am very grown up and that if the Home Guard does go away, I should help my naneth.” What terribly ominous words coming from the mouth of an elfling who doesn't understand that his family might be torn apart because of his warrior father doing his duty by going to war! And the chilling inside knowledge that we - as readers - have, that a war would be so unnecessary, wrong-headed, and disastrous! Ayyy! Daw, you're breaking my heart, here! And the second thing I want to congratulate you on is your portrayal of a realistic view of wolves, that they are NOT dangerous to people unless protecting their cubs or themselves. That's one of my biggest pet peeves of fiction (fan- and otherwise), that wolves are portrayed as inherently bloodthirsty -- that is just SO WRONG! (Wargs, now, are another story ... you have my permission to impugn their integrity all you want!) Anyway, thank you, Daw, and now I get to read your next chapter! Yippee!

LOTRFaith · 5 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

Only one word that I can think of right now. Ouch. :-) Namaarie! LOTRFaith

Nilmandra · 5 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Confession

My entire review is going to be a complaint: it is too short. Ok, not really. I mean, I want MORE, but I want more regardless of whether I see 7 pages or 14 pages. Thranduil is purrfect - I could feel the tension. And poor Legolas, he just doesn't have a clue how much trouble he is in or how mad Ada is. I can't wait for the big ending :)

The Karenator · 4 October 2003 · Chapter 8: In the Dark

Daw, An exciting chapter! I'm glad Ithilden got home in the nick of time. From his discussions with his adar, I do believe he is as hard headed as his sire. All three of the king's sons seem to have inherited their father's temper to some degree. It seemed that Legolas's last straw in making his decision was feeling left out of the discussion and feeling he was still treated like a baby. Unknowingly, Thranduil gave Legolas the final justification to slip out. The trip into the forest was well done. While they didn't find the big buck, they did find some very interesting and frightening things. Turgon is not afraid of the devil himself! When he jumped down in front of the mam, I thought, "Uh oh!" Then the wolf. I can see why Legolas just felt relieved to be home. The scene where Turgon stayed with Legolas in the forest all night and put his arm around Legolas to comfort him makes it hard to stay mad at the little imp. I could not help but feel that parent panic that they stayed out all night, unprotected and unsheltered. Woe be unto them when Thranduil finds out.....once he recovers from the shock and fright. I half expected Thranduil to be sitting in Legolas's room with his fingers steepled when the little wanderer got in. I guess Adar learns later to carefully check on his youngest since he does find him gone more than once in your stories set in the future. I'm looking forward to seeing where this goes...and how Legolas comes clean about what he's seen in the forest. I'm really enjoying this and find myself impatiently waiting for the next chapter. Thanks for sharing it with us all. Karen

Dot · 4 October 2003 · Chapter 8: In the Dark

Poor Legolas – doesn’t he realise that if he just finds the courage to stand up to Turgon he won’t have to force food into a nervous stomach while his father watches... Actually, I think if Thranduil wasn’t so distracted by the events with the dwarves he’d immediately know his youngest was up to something. How frustrating for Legolas that he knows something is going on that is being kept from him. I loved watching him piece it all together! And yay, Ithilden is home! The conversation between him, his father and Eilian was fascinating. Especially to see Ithilden so close to losing his temper. And, wait a moment, was that Eilian being diplomatic...?! Hmm. Turgon knows exactly what to say to get Legolas to go, doesn’t he? I knew he’d go but I can’t believe the little brat outright lied to the guards! Tsk, tsk, Legolas, I’m very disappointed in you. If nothing else, Thranduil will have a thing or two to say about dishonesty. I have to say, I got a little offended on the man’s behalf – I bet he thought he was being quiet!!! My heart was in my mouth there for a moment – I was so afraid something would happen to Turgon. Then no sooner do I breathe a sigh of relief than a wolf appears! Crikey, does Legolas believe the forest is dangerous yet? Or is he waiting until giant spiders make an appearance?! Ai, the other side of the bad Turgon! Y’know, you make it totally impossible to dislike him when he can be so sweet and considerate at times! He can really be a true friend when it matters. You can’t leave it there! But the poor elfling is all tired and damp and frightened... And surely he won’t get away with it!;)

Brenda G. · 4 October 2003 · Chapter 8: In the Dark

Whew! The elflings made it to and back from the dark woods in one piece - and without being discovered by any parent. I predict that won't last long! Once Legolas learns enough about the subject that neither his father nor his brothers will discuss before him, he will realize he has information that must be shared, despite his adar's displeasure or the penalties that will most certainly descend once his further disobedience is revealed. Not an ineviable position for the youngest of Mirkwood's royal house, but Legolas cannot even hold Turgon accountable for the pickle he finds himself in this time. Turgon... The little glimpses you give us of this wild child (him slipping his arm around Legolas to help warm him in this story and the hugs and other heart-catching gestures he bestows upon his princely friend in your other stories) are bittersweet and poignant. Everytime Turgon surfaces, I grieve for him - for what is to come, wondering, as I always will, how different Legolas' life would have been had Turgon grown to adulthood beside him. We will never know, of course, but I am glad Legolas has him now. How dull would be our young prince's life were not lively Turgon about to add his own unique brand of spice. Turgon's loyalty and devotion to Legolas completely overshadow his destructive behavior at times. Perhaps if he had not been born to such wishy-washy parents, he might have had half a chance, but I am being unfair. Even the wisest and strictest of parents still have their hands full. Kids will be kids - elven or human, it doesn't matter. Mischief is always the middle name of anyone between two and twenty. I miss Turgon already. I'm sure I am not the only one of your readers who does. I was beside Eilian and Thranduil in their relief to see Ithilden return home safe and sound. Had he not, Thranduil would have soaked the ground with Dwarven blood! The Mirkwood monarch seems ready to do that at any rate. Sometimes, king or not, Thranduil's prejudices get the better of him. Thank goodness for the settling effect Ithilden seems to have on all concerned. You've done a nice job of balancing out the differing personalties in this family of elves, pitting strengths against weaknesses, passion against the more calming, peaceful attributes needed to prevail when composures are strained and heads are hot. Love tempers all, thankfully. I am very anxious to see how Ithilden flushes out the hidden foe in this story. Of even more interest is how our fiery Woodland King will deal with such enemies to his kingdom. And what will he do about his disobedient son? I can see it now... Enter, stage right: Legolas, dragging his feet, twisting his hands, guilty eyes downcast, as he approaches his adar with a confession and a tale to tell trembling upon his lips. Great chapter, Daw. Of course (and as always), I'm ready for more. Dish me up another serving, please? Brenda G.

Nilmandra · 4 October 2003 · Chapter 8: In the Dark

It was fascinating to read how Legolas slowly came to the decision to disobey his father, using his elfling logic and being persuaded by his friend. It is interesting to us on the outside, for we see that Thranduil needs to start treating Legolas as someone capable of understanding the 'why' of things, because Legolas learns better when he understand why. On the flip side, Legolas needs to learn to obey, as a good warrior should, even when the why isn't known - and he also needs to learn to be steadfast under pressure. You really get inside a 10 year old's well, daw :) I feel bad for Eilian's horse and understand completely why it does not wish to go south again. Poor horse. I loved Ithilden's control freak nature coming out - him thinking he cannot leave again because things will fall apart! That was so Ithilden! See how much you get your readers thinking about all this?

LOTRFaith · 3 October 2003 · Chapter 8: In the Dark

Ouch. Legolas honey, that was a really bad choice you made there. But in the long run it might be helpful, now if Legolas will only tell his adar about the swords he found, he might ease a little of his adar's wrath. But not to much, tsk, tsk, tsk. He still needs a good punishment. :-) Namaarie! LOTRFaith