Reviews (129)

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

Reading this chapter makes me feel as though I'm sitting here watching a "train wreck" about to happen. I can't do anything to stop it and it's going to be really, really ugly soon!

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

Thank goodness Ithilden showed up when he did and seemed to be able to convince his Adar not to jump to conclusions. What a masterful job of diplomacy on Ithinden's part. It must have been difficult not to lose his temper. Thranduil has a hard time letting go of old prejudices. His first instinct is to mistrust the dwarves. And his second is to shield Legolas from matters he considers too scary for the elfling. But now we see how that overprotective attitude can back fire. The "elfling" no longer considers himself such, and he resents being left out of important discussions. Maybe if he had been included in some of the discussion, he would have used better judgment and not gone out at night against his Adar's orders. Although nothing happened, it was a close call with the wolf. And while the information about the mysterious man and the swords may be useful - there will be hell to pay when Thranduil finds out how Legolas knows about those swords. A "double edged sword" indeed! Can't wait to see how this plays out!

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

So, daw, are you running some kind of scientific test to see how long your readers can last while holding their breath in fear? I certainly hope so. I'd hate to think that I nearly asphixated for no good reason. ;-) I was really worried that the Man would hurt Turgon. I'm so glad he didn't. Surprised, but very glad. And just when I thought it was safe to breathe again, that she-wolf showed up! Thranduil is going to explode when he finally finds out about Legolas' adventures. (I have no doubt that he will. Although it would be a nice change of tradition for Legolas to realize his errors without his father finding out.) Thranduil probably won't realize that his (natural) desire to shield his youngest from danger is also contributing to his son's rebellion. It's a hard lesson for a parent to learn, and so few do. I'm not looking forward to reading the scene between father and son once father finds out, I have to admit. Both Ithilden and Eilian impressed me with their diplomacy in handling Thranduil. Good for them! And good for you for allowing them to succeed. :-) LKK

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

First I have to say that I loved the detail about Eilian needing another horse because his own horse was suffering from the Shadow. Perfect. So much is coming to light in this chapter, and all the threads are weaving together. It's wonderful. I am dismayed, though, that Legolas lied to the guard. Sigh . . . I guess it had to happen, he can't always be such a perfectly honest little elfling. At least he hasn't out right tried to lie to Thranduil yet. Given the bond between Elves and their children, it probably wouldn't work anyway. I was so surprised when Turgon dropped down and confronted that Man! How perfectly in character for him. So now Legolas holds a part of the puzzle they're trying to solve (and it is the Men, I knew it!) but doesn't know how important it is. The sooner he proves his abilities and his family starts treating him as an intelligent young adult the better, for all of them. Thranduil is just going to have to take him out at night--it isn't natural for an Elf to sleep away from the stars, anyway. Great job, as always. Thank you! Lamiel

TolkienFan · 2 October 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

A wonderful story, and another great chapter! I started to read your stories because they had Legolas in them, but (to my surprise) I also came to love the family you've given him! These are *all* realistic people that I truly care about. Even your "minor" characters are so well-written - Legolas' best friends, Turgon and Annael - so unlike each other, and the loyal-to-a-fault Maltanaur. *Please* let the true story of the sword thefts get to Thranduil before there's an unjust war with the dwarves! *Please* knock some sense into Turgon's head (or even his parents') before it's too late! (Ahem, sorry, I got carried away ...) Anyway, I thought you'd like to know that I compare the quality of any other author's Mirkwood stories to yours, and few measure up. Thank you so much for sharing your considerable talents with us.

Dot · 1 October 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

What a lovely long chapter! The orc scenes were wonderfully vivid – battles aren’t really my thing but I love that you ensure that we can follow exactly what’s happening while still retaining the emotions of it. Tinar seems to be learning to bite his tongue! Although, it must be hard when Eilian and Gelmir are obviously having so much fun with him… Oh, and I love the way Maltenaur flat out refuses to do what Eilian instructs – how annoying for Thranduil’s sons that his influence stretches so far! Wow, an Orc has one of the swords... Hmm, I wasn’t expecting that. The plot just keeps on thickening, doesn’t it?! Homecoming never does seem to be entirely happy for poor Eilian. How awful for him to have to tell Corion’s parents of his death. There’s something quite touching about him wishing Ithilden was there – I know it’s to placate his father but still, I just like that he recognises Ithilden’s strengths and respects him. Legolas is so cute in his excitement! And I had to laugh at Thranduil humouring him by asking the right question. So, he’s calling him “adar”? Yeah, until he tries to get out of trouble again.... Speaking of trouble, the ending was a bit ominous. Something tells me Turgon is going to get his way again. Roll on the next chapter! Oh, and I hope Ithilden hurries home before the dwarves find themselves at the wrong end of several hundred elvish arrows...

naneth · 29 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

I recently reread some of your older work. I really laughed when reading "See The Stars" and Eilian mentioned that Thranduil had always had trouble keeping Legolas in at night. What a "hoot" that line is in relation to this current story! It's so sad when kids reach that age to stop using mommy and daddy. Parents everywhere must share that universal sorrow-happy for them that they're growing up-sad for us that they're growing up so fast.

Fadesintothewest · 29 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

Well, the plot thickens. I definitely did not see that twist coming, and I thoroughly enjoy being surprised. I certainly hope that the Elves do not go off and hurt too many Dwarves. Ithilden, where is his level head when Eilian needs him.

The Karenator · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

Daw, What a good battle scene! You did a marvelous job of setting it up and then leading the warriors through it in a well written and believable way. (I think you have some hidden warrior talents that probably come from years of doing battle in the classroom!) As usual, I loved Maltanaur. He has his pat answer, (I take my orders from my king), and the sons of Thranduil get away with nothing. I think the princes need someone like him. It's too easy to get used to having your orders carried out with no one to question you. Maltanaur is a great check and balance sort of guy. Keeps them humble. As I have said before, Thranduil chose wisely when he tapped Maltanaur. He is so unflappable. You have developed him well. The dwarven sword in the hands of the orc chief was a bit of a surprise. But it does give us a another clue as to what has been happening. And poor Gelmir. Give the boy a sword, will ya! I liked how you handled Eilian telling his adar about the sword. He rose to the occasion and reported with calm and dignity. I also liked that he realizes his limits. The fact that he recognizes he is out of his depth is such a sure sign of maturity. I can't help but join him in wishing Ithilden would get home. Thranduil is angry and mistrustful of the dwarves, but I can't see him doing anything rash or even acting until he knows his son is safe. It would not be a good idea to attack the dwarves with Ithilden still with them. So hopefully, Ithilden will be able to shed some light on the subject before the king carves new orifices for the dwarves. It was nice to see Legolas so excited about being promoted to the next weapons class. Loved the little bouncing jig. And Adar asked. What a good adar...not Ada...Adar. I also liked seeing that even though Legolas is naturally talented, he still has to work hard to develop those skills. And good old Turgon is manipulating him again. Unfortunately, Legolas doesn't catch on until it is too late. Since Mount Thranduil is already rumbling and spewing steam, I can see a full blown eruption in the works if these two go adventuring again. The thought makes me cringe. Just as a side note...I noted that you did not let Eilian bathe in public again. I was so disappointed...... Otherwise, great chapter. It's coming together and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next. :>) Karen

JastaElf · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

Oh Lordy, Legolas has graduated from calling Thranduil "Ada"... *SOB!* Err, sorry about that. I have less than 15 days until my one surviving child turns 21... I'm a little hyper-parental and weepy just now. :-) Oh, poor Thranduil... the last little chick in the nest is feeling his majority... Anyway, I thought the battle with the Orcs was most excellently done. Battle scenes are NOT easy to write, and you did a fine job with this one. Sheesh, Tinár is going to run out of arrows someday and there will NOT be someone to cover his butt... :-( He needs to learn some hard lessons very soon! And this business with the weapons! Oh dear, now I am SURE that bad Man is playing both ends against the middle... I hope they catch him before the King does something rash! Ithilden, come home QUICK!!! Yurgon, Turgon, think before you act... and Legolas, for heaven's sake, pay attention to your inner Good Elfling!! I love stories that engage me like this. Thank you for this latest neat chapter!

Nilmandra · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

Everyone is perfect in this chapter. Eilian is great - I like to see the wisdom in him now, knowing that he cannot help or advise his father - this is beyond him. The respect for his brother grows, and we can only hope that Ithilden coming back from Erebor has a big enough chunk of the puzzle to begin to piece this together. Legolas is being slowly tempted by Turgon. He won't want his friend to go alone, for that could be dangerous, and in his own young mind he doesn't understand the dangers of the forest at night. He is sweet and sensitive - and we see him falling to his own elfling wisdom. Oh, and enraged Thranduil is something to behold :)

Brenda G. · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

Ahhh! Eilian! So glad he was back and so much of him in this chapter. Love it! Thank you! I can't believe Dwarves are stupid enough to trade goods with the Dark Forces. That would be for them like taking a knife and slitting their own collective throats! Anyone of any intelligence at all should know you can't fool with Shadow and come away unscathed. Men can be pretty dumb (look at Isildur and the Ring and the Nine Ring Wraiths who were Men before the Darkness took them). I think Men are the culprits in the switcharoo, playing the middle against both Elves and Dwarves. Whomever it finally turns out to be, Eru help them once Thranduil gets his hands on them. Boy, I love the big guy, but he's as scary as they come when seeing red. Hurry home Ithilden before Thranduil goes on a rampage and takes no prisoners! Hurray for Legolas! Joining the older class and doing so well the first time out is a great way to boost the youngster's morale. I was hoping Turgon would "let it be" for a time about the big buck and night hunting, but I guess I should have known better than to hope, right? Keep them safe, Daw. Kids can get into so much trouble. I can't say that I'm going to have too much sympathy for Legolas if he goes along with Turgon this time knowing how angry Thranduil became over their last excursion into the nighttime forest. Personally, I would have thought Legolas a bit smarter than that. Oh, well...kids! I mean, really! This was a GREAT chapter - the battle, the strategies, seeing and experiencing it all from Eilian's perch in the tree or on the ground sword to sword with the enemy. You have always maintained that battles are not a strong point in your writing, but I have to respectfully disagree. I think you do a fantastic job of laying it all out for your reader, building the suspense to the breaking point, then pulling us into the thick of things right along with your characters. In fact, I'm running a load of wash now to rid my knockabouts of Orc blood that I got splattered with as I read your battle scenes. Sometime, when you have time, you must explain to me what an Orc smells like. I think I know, but it would be interesting to get your own scope on it. I think this may be my favorite chapter thus far in this story. You have me chewing my nails over what is going to happen next. Will there be all out war between the Elves and Dwarves? Will the big buck survive to live another day? Will Legolas actually, really tag along after Turgon against his father's wishes? I have a feeling if Legolas doesn't go, that Turgon will be in mortal danger (which is kind of tough since he's an immortal...). Still, I feel like these two have a lot to tell Thranduil about what they saw in the woods the one night that did go after the big buck. The possibilties...! Please don't keep us in suspense for long. If there is an ounce of mercy in you soul, you will post again - and soon. This was terrific.

Jay of Lasgalen · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

So, we are finding out what the man Legolas and his friends saw was up to! But the dwarves seem just as indignant about the shoddy weapons as the elves - I do hope Thranduil isn't going to be 'hasty' as Treebeard would say! Somehow I know that Legolas is going to be good at shooting while on the move (even if it takes him a few goes) - we've seen the end result, after all. Jay

LKK · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

Eilian handled himself very well during his meeting with Thranduil despite his fears. Of course, he didn't know that Thranduil was aware of problems with the weapons. So the king wasn't caught totally off guard. By the way, I don't think I've mentioned this before, but I sincerely hope that the dwarves have nothing to do with the faulty weaponry or the weapons in the orcs hands. I also hope that the men who met with Ithilden don't either. I want Ithilden's judgment to be spot on in this case. Poor Gelmir! I think he deserves a nice new weapon, but not one of the worthless fakes. I like him. :-) Legolas, Legolas. shakes head You're going to be night hunting with Turgon, yet, aren't you? Ah, child. I worry about you. (And start calling Thranduil Ada, again. It will make him happy!) Now, that I'm caught up with the story, I'm ready for more, daw! hint, hint LKK

Tapetum Lucidum · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

FF.net is in a really bad mood today so I came to play over here. I enjoy your Southern Patrol writings. Eilian has really developed his own personality through the course of your writings. He has become a strong leader. I like the way he handles Tinar. Maltanaur is exactly the man I would want protecting my kids. Thranduil is very wise. Your orc party was very well described. The battle plan was well thought out. Do you have a military advisor? Your descriptions of Eilian's emotions throughout the battle scene was excellent. I am glad the good guys won. Finding that sword will definitely add fuel to Thranduil's blazing fire. Your description of Eilian's dismay over telling the parents of the death of their child gave me goosebumps. It was very sad. Legolas' greeting of his older brother was very sweet. I am glad both Eilian and Thranduil took a few minutes to acknowledge what he was doing. Going from Ada to Adar is a big step. I don't blame Eilian one bit for missing Ithilien. He is a master negotiator. Turgon and Co. are sure clever at inventing games. If they would only use their powers for good instead of evil. He is relentless at getting what he wants. Legolas withstood him for a long time but was destined to cave in. I think he should talk to Eilian about the hunt and maybe get him to come with them. He doesn't have a Naneth to talk with about these problems - his older brothers did. You have mentioned this problem before. I hope he doesn't get in too much trouble...

LKK · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 6: Negotiating

By the Valar! Legolas needs to learn to trust his internal winds of caution and to not give in to Turgon's pressure. sigh I suppose all children must learn these things through trial and error, be they Man or Elf. I'm very impressed that Ithilden stood his ground about the weapons with Thranduil. In the past, he seemed much to willingly to back down against his better judgement, although this could simply be my misunderstanding past events. As a result plus his actions in dealing with the dwarves, my opinion of Ithilden has grown immeasurably. Finally, I can't help but notice the irony: by trying to shield Legolas from potentially upsetting discussions about orcs, Thranduil and Ithilden missed the chance to hear his tale about seeing the strange man finding the weapon. I'm certain that if his elders were discussing weapons, Legolas would have chimed in with his story. Assuming that the weapon discussion took place before Legolas asked his ada to go hunting at night, of course. (And kudos to young Legolas for having the courage to ask even ada!) Another great chapter, daw. Sorry I was late in reviewing it. LKK

JustMe · 28 September 2003 · Chapter 7: Battles

The timing for the discovery of the dwarven weapons in the hands of the Orcs is dangerous. Hopefully, Thranduil will wait until he actually has a chance to discuss the matter with Ithilden before he jumps to any conclusions about the dwarves. This will be a decidedly unpleasant incident. Thranduil's anger will be difficult to control - god help whoever ends up on the receiving end of his wrath! I do not envy Ithilden his task of trying to smooth over this incident. Now will not be a good time for Legolas to defy his Adar about the night time hunting trip. Why do I have a feeling that now will be the time the two friends choose to press their luck? It was nice to have Eilian make an appearance at this time. Whenever he is around things always seem to get very interesting. He has stepped into a rather volitile situation - he may find that duty in the Southern Patrol is preferable to the explosions that will shortly be taking place at home! Oh - one more thing - I think that Gelmir needs to put a new sword on his Christmas wish list. He certainly seems obsessed with getting one.

bryn · 27 September 2003 · Chapter 6: Negotiating

It's wonderful to see Legolas progressing with his bow... I can't wait to see how he fares against the older students. TURGON!!!! Good grief child! Why, oh why, are his parents so oblivious? At least Legolas has enough sense not to give into him completely. I begin to side with Thranduil more and more as far as his opinion of Turgon's influence. *shakes head in exasperation* Awww, Ithilden meets Alfirin. *lol* I love how you only just hint at an attraction. Poor Ithilden is so distracted by his duties he doesn't even realize it. Given his stoic nature, just to see the look on his face when he finds himself in love would be absolutely priceless. *snicker* I think it literally would hit him over the head. He seems rather dense about such matters. Thranduil is a genius. :) There's something wickedly powerful about making Ithilden serve as messenger. He's almost punishing his son for bringing the shoddy weapons to his attention, yet not. Valar, I love that Elven-king. Hmmm, the plot thickens. So the dwarves' weapons are being stolen or replaced, eh? You would think Glesur might be eager to find the culprit--his kin's reputation is at stake. What if it happens to shipments elsewhere? It could completely ruin his trade. Is it the Men? Or is it those two other Dwarves... though I don't think they would do such a thing, because then they might be responsible for Elven deaths. They know the forest is dangerous. Or perhaps they don't realize the dangers faced by Thranduil's kin... Quite a mystery, indeed!

Dragon-of-the-North · 25 September 2003 · Chapter 6: Negotiating

Sorry I missed a chapter yet again. :-/ But things are probably going to be a bit better now! I liked this chapter extremely well, especially because of your portrayal of Ithilden. It was awesome to see how he struggles to get along between responsibility, a longing for a quiet private life (it is nice that Alfirin comes into it here - realistic meeting! :-)), his difficult "father and king" (how very true!), etc... And it was awesome that he dared intervene when Thranduil's foreign policy was concerned! Well done, Ithilden! But I also liked that Thranduil did not insist merely for the sake of insisting, but allowed his son to negotiate with the dwarves. Speaking of Thranduil... I really wonder what his own youth has been like. ;-) True enough, he tries to be good to his children, and he certainly is not a bad father, but he somehow lacks... hmm... diplomacy or something like that. He is always a king, "and that is the end of it" indeed. So, while he is probably very right not to engage in dangerous nightly hunts, and with Turgon of all young elves as a charge (it would be most awkward if something happened, yes, especially because of that double role as father and king - would not look good if he lost one of his subjects in the forest at night, no... ;-)), he seems totally incapable of selling this decision to Legolas in a manner that would really make him understand why it has to be so. What I mean is that "no" is the right decision, but that "no, because" would probably be a more useful answer in this case than simply "no". Is it possible that Thranduil's #1 worry to secure his authority and receive the respect he is due (the remark that he did not want anybody to "trifle with" him, though made in regard to the dwarves, could be his life motto in general ;-)) sometimes lets him refrain from being diplomatic? He might have an easier family life if he tried it out at least on the family sector... I can't believe that he especially enjoys all those clashes with his sons, or does he? I liked your dwarves - they were very convincing, and I had to grin about Ithilden's observation that the dwarf leader and the elvenking have entirely too much in common... ;-D Brilliant job once again - I am looking forward to the next chapter! :-)

Dot · 24 September 2003 · Chapter 6: Negotiating

Ah, Legolas is showing signs of the archer he is to become. Y’know, I was thinking about Penntalion - he has such a difficult job, especially when dealing with young elves but it must be so rewarding for him to see them become better and to witness their excitement at being allowed to move into more advanced classes. I had to smile when Annael stood up to Turgon – I’m glad someone did. Legolas is such a softy. Of course, it doesn’t help that he feels sorry for Turgon and genuinely wants to help him. Darn it, why did Turgon have to go and be all cute and helpless just when Legolas was trying to be strict?! Oh look, it’s Alfirin! And I see she’s managed to unsettle poor Ithilden already! That was worrying about the swords. Any chance Tinar’s is one of the swords that shattered? I have this vision of Gelmir laughing as Tinar’s sword falls to pieces…! I really felt for Ithilden having to face the king. I hope he does manage to convince him that they could trust the dwarves. Thranduil’s a wily one, isn’t he for sending Ithilden as messenger – he seems intent on teaching his sons a sense of responsibility. I’m glad, though, he was able to switch from king back into father mode. That can’t be easy. I had to laugh that even Thranduil doesn’t want to try to control Turgon. But he’s going to have to find some way to show Legolas that the forest really is dangerous. Warnings just don’t seem to be working…. The scenes with the dwarves were brilliant! I love the open suspicion between them. And I thought the bit with the elves all suddenly disappearing into the trees was just hilarious! I’m so glad Ithilden had the sense to believe the dwarves and I would NOT like to be Rudd and Cadoc when they are caught. Which they will be, won’t they…?!:)

tigerlily713 · 24 September 2003 · Chapter 6: Negotiating

It seems like Ithilden should have asked Glesur or Noisil how many shipments they had sent out. I'm sure it will all be cleared up, and likely only a few people will die, right? Great chapter, Lily

JustMe · 24 September 2003 · Chapter 6: Negotiating

What I wouldn't give to see Thranduil's face if he knew that Ithilden thought the dwarf king and the elven king had similar personalities! I can only imagine the shade of red his face would turn before he blew his stack!! I love it - it made me giggle. Ithilden really was the best choice for this mission. All his years of dealing with his Adar have made him very diplomatic. And he seems to know how to intimidate others just a little to make his point. We got our first glimpse of Alfirin - I always liked her. Such a level-headed girl with a sweet personality and a will of iron. Ah Legolas! I know you want to help your friend, but defying your Adar is not the way to go. If you think he was mad before, just imagine how much angrier he will be if you defy him again. Turgon is like a runaway train - don't let yourself get caught up in his mischief. OK the lecture is over now - I know you won't listen to me anyway. What fun would the story be if you did?

Marnie · 24 September 2003 · Chapter 6: Negotiating

Really enjoyed this chapter :) I loved the interaction between Ithilden and the dwarves - it was so absolutely authentic. I could just see it being like that, and there's no wonder they don't get on with each other! Wonderful!

Brenda G. · 24 September 2003 · Chapter 6: Negotiating

Oh, brother! Forgeries! So that's what the Man in the moonlight was doing, pulling out inferior weaponery to substitute for the quality merchandise of the Dwarves. I wonder how widespread this scam is? Poor Ithilden! Sandwiched between Thranduil and Glesur! Not the most comfortable place to be, I'll warrant. At least now Elves and Dwarves alike are on the right trail. This situation with defective weaponery will only drive Thranduil's distrust of Men even deeper, and I dare say he won't feel any warmer toward his stunted neighbors when all is said and done regardless if they help or not to bring about a resolution of the current mess. I had to laugh when Ithilden, upon meeting Glesur and observing his blunt manner, was reminded of his own adar! Good thing Thranduil can't read minds or Ithilden would be in the dog house about now. (He may already be there, at any rate.) So, we see Alfirin make her appearance in this story. Wonderful! It will be very nice to see this romance unfold up and until the time of her and Ithilden's marriage to one another. I'm really looking forward to the bonding of Eilian with his lady love in future tales. Eilian strikes me as being the most passionate of the three brothers - at least his passion is more on the surface than that of Ithilden (who has learned to emulate his father's lead) or Legolas who is just now beginning to develop the emotions that will carry him into adulthood. I think Legolas is at last beginning to catch on that he can say "no" to Turgon and make it stick. I don't want the big buck to die, but if anyone kills it, it would be nice if it could be Turgon since his father has never taken him hunting before. Despite his off-the-chart capers, the child deserves at least one major milestone in his life, don't you think? Of course, Turgon killing the big buck would cut Legolas out of the glory, but the young prince's concern and compassion for his mischief-making friend would most likely eclipse any other feelings he might have about the matter. But, hey, you're the boss on this, Daw. You know best. So write it like you feel it. I'm glad Thranduil is sticking to his guns (swords?) - no night hunting in the dangerous woods. Turgon (the Terrible) is the candle that burns at both ends -twice as bright, but half as long. No wonder Legolas can't help being dazzled by his friend. I love our mad-capped Turgon. What a dull place Middle-earth (and modern day earth) would be if not for those of his scope and caliber. I'm ready to see some more of Thranduil's handsome middle son. Isn't it about time for leave for Eilian? I believe I remember that from an earlier chapter in this story. Chapter Six was very satisfying, Daw. Of course, I am wishing that Chapter Seven were already up to relish, but "all good things come to those who wait." So, here I wait, and while I wait, I've got just two words for you, Miss Daw: POST SOON! BG P.S. The shower you took--it was cold, right?

Fadesintothewest · 23 September 2003 · Chapter 6: Negotiating

So the man will be caught and I do feel sorry for him. Messing with Thranduil is not where he should tread. Turgon drives me a little batty, and I want to take Legolas and give him a scolding for letting his friend so easily influence him. Me thinks Legolas is going to get into huge trouble! It makes sense, this story connected to your other where Turgon dies, he was always a troubled child who needed direction. Poor elfling.