Reviews (75)

Dot · 11 December 2003 · Chapter 18: Dark Dreams

Yay, Tathar and co. are back! As always, the scene between Legolas and Thranduil was beautiful. You write such a wonderful closeness between them. And I love the idea of Tariel predicting their needs and having warm milk and pastries ready! Great job showing how the shadow is now affecting them so much that they can no longer even find refuge in sleep. Mithrandir certainly made a dramatic entrance! I thought it was hilarious the way none of the three thought it at all odd to come across the other in the middle of the forest. They just very matter-of-factly agree to hop across the Anduin to Lothlorien! The best line of the whole chapter has to be “There is no need to fuss, Galadriel” – only Mithrandir could get away with that! There’s such a wonderful sense of everyone being mildly amused by the old wizard, although obviously completely respectful of him. I really like, though, the way you maintain the note of seriousness underneath any gaiety. Thranduil seems very hopeful, if I’m judging his reaction correctly. I suppose it sounds as though there might be an end to Mirkwood’s troubles. It’ll be interesting to see what happens now!

Dot · 23 November 2003 · Chapter 17: Renewal

A really lovely chapter. I always love these celebrations your wood-elves hold. News does travel fast, doesn’t it if Legolas is just home and Tathar has already heard most of the tales from Imladris. I really loved the scene between the two of them. You write the banter between them so well, but at the same time they are so attuned to each other that Tathar immediately senses that there is more to Legolas’ story than he is admitting. Of all people Tathar can understand the grief that Legolas is desperately trying to spare himself and his loved one from. It is good to see Tathar back to something like his old self again. And Legolas was well able for him too! How wicked they both can be. They certainly seemed to amuse everyone at the king’s table anyway! That last piece was unexpected! Beautifully written and a wonderful reminder of how long Tariel has been around and how close she is to the royal family as well as quite a poignant picture of the spirit of Oropher dancing amongst the wood-elves, but see...now I really want an Oropher story...;)

Dot · 21 November 2003 · Chapter 16: Love Has Many Faces

Great chapter as always. What a picture it must have made, Thranduil and Elrond trying to sneak back all dishevelled and cut! I love the way the three younger elves don’t think twice about questioning their fathers when they would probably have resented it had it been the other way around. I was delighted that Glorfindel made an appearance here – and I see he’s causing trouble as always! I really love his mischievous streak. Thranduil and Elrond should really know by now that glaring at him is just a waste of time! I was surprised to see Arwen – I had totally forgotten about her! I thought you wrote her homecoming wonderfully, the way she seems to savour everything about her home. It’s quite sad that she loves the place so much yet it still holds such painful memories for her that she has to seek solace in Lothlorien. The relationship she seems to have with her two brothers is great to see. It was such a lovely image of her resting her head on Elrohir’s shoulder. I thought Legolas’ reaction to Thranduil’s injuries was really interesting. I suppose we all think our parents are infallible until something forces us to realise that they’re not, and Thranduil is usually so well protected that his son obviously hasn’t considered this before. Of course, the fact that he has had to deal with loss already probably means that Legolas dreads having that experience again, especially if it’s his beloved father. Oh how I’d love to have been there to see the swordfighting display between the three elves.... Thranduil trying to matchmake! He’s obviously not very skilled at it – I’m sure he could have been a little more discreet! He seemed to be pushing the idea a bit – maybe he just wants for his son the same happiness he had himself. I really like the idea of the elves knowing who that one other is that will complete them. The concept of such unity is really beautiful. Still, poor Legolas sounds as though he wouldn’t have minded if Arwen had been that maiden who’d steal his heart! I guess it’s hard for him too as he obviously has some sense that his life as a warrior will lead him into danger. It must be difficult to choose between duty and love.

The Karenator · 14 November 2003 · Chapter 15: An Interlude with the Elders

Another very well done chapter. The trip to Imladris was good for all. So much has happened and the worries about the strengthening of the shadow has weighed heavily on everyone. The archery contest was a nice little carrot to dangled in front of Legolas. I enjoyed the interaction between Thranduil and Elrond. Elrond's reasons for wanting Thranduil to come was a surprise, but a fun one. I was glad to see Mithrandir show up and when they get back to Imladris, the two rulers can be sure EVERYONE knows he was there! Nicely done, jenolas. :>) Karen

Dot · 13 November 2003 · Chapter 15: An Interlude with the Elders

Thranduil and Elrond! *massive grin* Thank you so much for this chapter...did I ever tell you how much I like those two elves?!;) I wish I had longer to review this but I don’t, so here goes... I loved everything about it but particularly: - the determination of the Wood-elves not to allow themselves become prisoners in their homeland - the idea of Thranduil feeling Elrond’s pain so deeply that he wants to offer his support and comfort - the easy relationship between Elrond and Thranduil, despite the fact that they hadn’t seen each other for so long – especially the way they have their mischievous sons in common - the language! “The ever present whispering of the cascading water of the falls was muffled as if by some ghostly hand covering its mouth as a thick morning mist hung heavily over Imladris”. Aah, beautiful! And of course all of the scene by the waterfall! They seem at ease in each other’s company, probably due largely to their experiences of heartache. I loved the way Elrond was concerned enough to enquire about Legolas and Tathar. I thought the whole piece with them sparring was really very emotional. Apart from them genuinely needing to hone their skills at a time when peace is threatened, it seems more a way for Elrond to find some release as well. All his grief and anger probably went into that fight. I understand that he wanted someone who would challenge him, but I think that underneath was a greater need for a friend who understands his loss and would help him through this time. Anyway, they certainly both enjoyed it! Mithrandir, eh? Now, he doesn’t tend to turn up for no particular reason… Oh, and I thought the end was hilarious – I can only imagine what spin Glorfindel would put on events! And for the record, the fact that there were two strong, sweaty elves in torn shirts prancing about with swords had nothing – I repeat, nothing – to do with my enjoyment of this chapter.....;)

The Karenator · 9 November 2003 · Chapter 14: A Small Celebration

What a nice chapter. I was glad to see Mirieth settled in her decision to sail and she seemed more at peace...or maybe it was the kiss from the prince and the attention of the twins....but then that would have been enough to convince any girl to stay. At any rate, it was a very sweet departure. The Begetting Day party was fun...wine on patrol, indeed! I trust they had a designated driver..or would it be a designated archer? Legolas's dream/rememberance of saying good bye to Mirieth was sweet...and his message to his naneth, equally sweet. Tathar's story about seeing his wife off was nice. The gulls watching over her...lovely. And now we have the plans to build that last grey ship when the time comes. The pace of this chapter was slower and a much needed respite from such difficult happenings of the past. It was just as wonderful as all the rest. :>) Karen

Dot · 9 November 2003 · Chapter 14: A Small Celebration

Lovely chapter! I liked that Tathar refused to allow Legolas to travel to the Havens with him - even though he would probably have appreciated his friendship - out of concern both for Legolas and Thranduil. It’s a great idea to have Tathar then patrol near the settlements of men. He will be providing much needed protection while also feeling that he is doing his duty to his son. Mirieth sounds so wonderful, it’s such a pity that this happened to her. I had to laugh at Legolas kissing her “in a decidedly un-sibling like manner, almost causing Tathar to reconsider his decision”! Mirieth didn’t seem to mind... The part about Elisiel was beautiful. This must really have reopened old wounds for Legolas. The fact that he forgot his begetting day really showed how troubled he has been. Yay for Thranduil and Tariel! I loved the sense of camaraderie between the members of the patrol. At least they can still have moments of lightheartedness in increasingly dark times. And I see Tariel’s blueberry tarts strike again! Mirieth flirting with Elrond’s sons? *snigger* Legolas is right that they were trying to lift her spirits, but I suspect they were also allowing a chance for Tathar to see her as she used to be so that his memories of her would be joyous. I am so glad Thranduil was able to make Elrond laugh! I didn’t think it was possible for me to love Thranduil more than I did already but there you go… You’ll just have to write another story that has Thranduil and Elrond together. Pretty please...??!;) I like the way Tathar described the sea as “frighteningly beautiful”. It may not have the same effect on him as it would on Legolas but it sounds as though he could see how it was almost mesmerizing. I take it that was Gwael. I really do think it’s such a lovely idea that he reassures those left behind so that they know that they made the right decision. I presume those were the plans of the ship in which Legolas finally leaves Middle-earth? Interesting that he got them from Cirdan… So Mirieth is gone now, what’s in store next for the two friends?!:)

Dot · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 13: Don't Fade Away

This is an angsty story, isn’t it?! I really do like the way you show how the times are changing and the shadow spreading by selecting these personal stories. I thought the appearance of Elladan and Elrohir in this chapter really highlighted this – as Legolas pointed out, even far-off Imladris has been touched by evil. I love your depiction of Elladan and Elrohir in this, the way they play off each other, their anger and grief coupled with a remaining light-heartedness and curiosity. I thought it was quite amusing that they were feeling very uneasy in the forest, yet couldn’t quite bring themselves to believe all that Thranduil had told them of the creatures that live there! Obviously, everyone would have been saddened by the news of Celebrian’s attack and departure, but Thranduil must have been particularly shocked. To not hear from his old friend in a while and then discover how he and his family suffered would surely be very painful. Thranduil actually seems a little frustrated with events. His comments about Saruman supposedly taking care of Dol Guldur and the tales of the dwarves speak of great impatience. Ever hopeful, though, is Thranduil! The scene with Elladan and Legolas was lovely. Legolas still appears to be really worried about Tathar. And Elladan seems so compassionate. Despite his own grief and anger he still wants to help others. He really seems to understand and accept his naneth’s need to sail West, rather than resent her for leaving. Your spiders are really creepy!! At least the twins can believe Thranduil now... I’m so glad Elladan could help Mirieth see her way to a decision. I liked that while he was gentle, he was also very blunt so that she could see things more clearly. Tathar will certainly feel grief but at least he knows she will find peace and that they will surely meet again one day. It’s also a really nice idea that Elisiel will look after her, and indeed Mirieth can bring news to Elisiel of her family.

Dot · 5 November 2003 · Chapter 12: The King Returns

Well, you had a lot to live up to after the last chapter and you certainly succeeded with this one! Poor Mirieth, she must really be suffering. Hopefully it will help to have Tathar by her side but it doesn’t look good... It was so touching the way the members of Tathar’s patrol worry about her and try to help. I liked the moment of slight tension with the uncertainty of how Tathar would react. I’m so glad he doesn’t blame Legolas. Tathar needs his friend - especially if he loses his wife as well - and Legolas is also suffering enough with his conscience and needs reassurance, not accusation. The scene between the two of them was beautiful. Tathar is such an amazing character. Grief can make us selfish, yet he always thinks of Legolas before himself, even at this darkest time of his life. Wow, that pact was an intense moment. It’s sad, really, to think that they’ll always carry such anger – even if it is against evil creatures. “The rest of your patrol may return to escort Adar, and should he question your reappearance, tell him that you were sent by royal command” *snigger* And then they told him! I love the way Thranduil and Legolas tease each other – you write the interplay between them so well. One of the most moving parts of this chapter for me was when Legolas fell into his father’s arms. It seems that he could maintain control as long as necessary but in the presence of his Adar he could finally share his grief, knowing he couldn’t hide his feelings from one who loves him so much. It was a real lump-in-the-throat moment! Ah the meal! You just gotta love Thranduil. He knows his people so well and manages to recognise their grief while turning it into a determination and even hope. It is such a beautiful image of the strength and unity of all of Thranduil’s people in the face of the shadow. *sigh* Wonderful as always!:)

The Karenator · 3 November 2003 · Chapter 12: The King Returns

I was a little worried there for a minute that Tathar would take his grief out on Legolas. I felt like their bond was strong, but such a tragedy can cause a momentary blurring of vision. I'm relieved! But poor Mirieth. As Theoden said in TTT, "No parent should ever have to bury their child." I hope now that Tathar is home that she will begin to recover. I'm glad Adar got home safely. I know Legolas was glad to see him and to give back the throne. It had been a difficult 'reign' for the novice king. Thranduil was wise to bring all his people together for the feast. It seemed to be more about drawing strength from each other than anything else. After the set time for saying our farewells, it is very healing to come together with those we love to laugh again and to celebrate the lives lost. Something of a sad but joyous time. Well, my lady, you have taken us through the wringer...and you do it so well. But, I think I'll put aside my virtual tissues and join in the dance. I think Legolas is looking for me..... :>) Karen

tinnuial · 3 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Day of Darkness

That was heartbreakingly sad.... Thanks for posting this...

The Karenator · 2 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Day of Darkness

jenolas, Just putting in login information felt like a chore....Oh, Faelas. There is no comfort to those left behind. I'm sure he fought bravely and did all within his power to help the villagers, but he was somewhere he should not have been and the consequences were irreversible. Legolas knew he might do something foolish and did all he could to discourage..yes even command...the young one from making the trip. I cried with Thranduil and Tathar. I did like that Thranduil in his despair for the encroaching shadow renamed his own woods until a brighter time returned. His burdens are heavy now as more and more warriors are lost, the spiders grow in numbers and the orcs grow in boldness. And now the loss of one I'm sure he viewed nearly as a grandchild seems too much to ask of him or any of the inhabitants of his land. Legolas carried himself well through his father's absence and in his grief for Faelas. It could not have been easy. Well done, jenloas. I can't say I was pleased with what happened, but I can say that it was realistic and well written. Loved ones are lost in dark times and the young are foolish and the strong survive tragedy. I have to go now...my nose is running....that's okay, I have plenty of tissues....Karen

Dot · 2 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Day of Darkness

Oh. My. God. I can’t believe that happened! I’m almost lost for words. Not quite, though, so here goes...! The opening of the chapter was great for showing exactly the changes occurring in Greenwood and Thranduil’s frustration at his increasing powerlessness to prevent the shadow from defeating his people. Legolas trying to placate Thranduil when he was getting angry at Elrond and Celeborn was a nice touch! Faelas is nearly all grown up! It was strange to see him behaving so formally with Legolas. I thought it was good of him to want to pay his respects to Gilbard and it shows a compassionate nature but Legolas definitely made the right choice to forbid him to go in the interest of his own safety. I have to say, it was a little strange when the spirit of Thranduil seemed to overtake Legolas and he ordered the guards to Faelas’ side! I was cheering him on anyway! When Faelas stormed from the hall I really thought the worst that would happen is that there’d be a rift between the two of them, but no... He’s dead! How unspeakably awful for Legolas to find him, and it’s probably made more difficult by the fact that the two of them parted on such bad terms. That Steward is great, by the way, he really handled Legolas well and helped him see what he must do. I could hardly bear to read the part with Mirieth and Tariel – and then Legolas weeping in his room. That must have been difficult to write. Alright, I admit it – I cried when Thranduil told Tathar! I love as well the way you show how the death affected everyone – that Thranduil and Legolas feel as much pain as Faelas’ family. Tathar is amazing – thinking of Legolas and understanding why Thranduil must stay, despite his own grief. The ending was beautiful and just so, so sad. A really powerful chapter, and dealt with so beautifully – seriously, well done!:)

Dot · 2 November 2003 · Chapter 10: Recovery and Revelations

Yikes, two chapters that I missed! First, I just want to say thanks for answering my question about Legolas in the last chapter – I hope you weren’t offended, I obviously just didn’t read it properly. I had a lump in my throat for this entire chapter! You did an amazing job showing the closeness between Thranduil and Legolas. It was just so lovely to think of Thranduil staying by his son’s side, offering what comfort his presence could provide. I loved the idea of Thranduil worrying about Legolas while everyone else worried about Thranduil! You nearly undid me when Legolas sensed his father’s presence and would only settle down when he was near! The part with Thranduil holding him in his arms was beautiful – I love the way that every now and then you have an image in your stories that will always stay with me and I think this is definitely one of them! Poor Faelas is still suffering from his ordeal. He’s lucky to be surrounded by so many people who love him to help him through it. I feel bad that those probably aren’t the first dead orcs he’s likely to see... Wow, that third part of the story really made me think! What a brilliant way of showing the passing of time. I felt just as bewildered as the poor elves did! What a shock it must have been to them to see those they thought were children now elderly people. I thought it was a great way to remind us how different the elves are. The little gift from Faelas was really sweet – I had to laugh at Tathar warning the man that it wouldn’t actually work!! The ending really sent shivers down my spine – especially the last line. Very ominous. Right, I’ll go and read the next chapter now!:)

TolkienFan · 2 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Day of Darkness

Ack! I'm four chapters behind in my reviews! Don't worry, I haven't forgotten you! I'll catch up in a few days, and leave you reviews for each chapter. - Barbara P.S. Since you mentioned that you're a Pervy Elder Elf Fancier, you might like the head portrait of Celeborn on Marnie's web site: www.apwl75.dsl.pipex.com/lotrfic/elfportraits.html The drawing is ... breathtaking! I am so awe-struck by such artistry, whether the medium be drawings or words. Hope you enjoy it, too! Oh, and there's also a nice portrait of Glorfindel on her site. (Psst, don't tell anyone, but I just started writing my first story. Don't know if I'll ever get the courage post it anywhere, but I'm really enjoying the process! Well, so far, at least ... But having an elf for a Muse is great fun, even though he's already drunk my entire stash of Dorwinian red. But he has a tendency to get *so* demanding! He insisted that I wake up and start writing in the middle of the night. And he insists that I can't stop now. And... How in the world did it get to be 6am here???)

Jay of Lasgalen · 2 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Day of Darkness

I was so pleased when I saw the update, but what a dreadfully sad chapter! Legolas did exactly the right thing in refusing Faelas permission, even in threatening to have him restrained, but it was no use. Faelas is obviously very like his father. Or was. I wasn't surprised when he went anyway, but didn't expect the whole village to have been wiped out. So sad. And Legolas' desperate sorrow for his friends, his own grief, and the fact that he still has to act as King is wonderfully written. I also like Thranduil's reaction, especially when he renames the forest himself, and how he deals with Tathar. I look forward to the time he returns home! Jay

The Karenator · 1 November 2003 · Chapter 10: Recovery and Revelations

jenolas, I'm glad to see Legolas recovered. I love the way you write Thranduil. I've always thought he gets a bad rap from writers who portray him as cold and greedy and a terrible father to boot. Legolas is just too good an elf to have been raised haphazardly and without a lot of love and careful teaching. The scenes between them as Legolas recovered were wonderful. There is such a strong bond. I sympathized with the king when he lamented that his son was too old to be held in his arms to sleep like Faelas. But, ever resourceful is our king; he found a way. You showed the different passing of time between the humans and the elves well. Legolas and Tathar were so surprised to find that the child they had shown kindness to in answering his questions about elves was the one who saved Legolas and Faelas. Legolas's realization that evil had return to Dol Guldur was well done. It was definitely a shiver moment. I look forward to more. :>) Karen

Jay of Lasgalen · 1 November 2003 · Chapter 10: Recovery and Revelations

I haven't been reviewing this story nearly as much as I should! The last two chapters in particular have been excellent. I liked Legolas' concern for the child, despite his own injury, and the help of the hunters. And Thranduil is wonderful. I love to see him as a concerned father, even when he is still being King. The scenes with him next to Legolas in the forest, and again at his bedside are lovely. Jay

Fadesintothewest · 1 November 2003 · Chapter 10: Recovery and Revelations

Oh how eerie that chapter ended... and so fitting too on Halloween. It was so sad to see how the men had aged and for the Elves it seemed that only weeks had passes, such a short time, but a man's life passes in a breath's time for an Elf.

Dot · 28 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Danger and Death

Crikey, that’s a bit of excitement! Faelas is so cute – he sounds like a handful but seems very affectionate. I love the closeness between him and Legolas, especially the way that Faelas is so possessive of his friend. I had to laugh at Legolas commanding instant obedience, I wonder where he learnt that trick....! Legolas seems really good with him as well – firm, yet gentle. I’m a little confused at one thing, though, and I hope you don’t mind me asking. I got the impression here that Legolas was a little inexperienced as an archer, in the part where you say that he could only kill one orc at a time, but wasn’t he given his own patrol in a previous chapter? Um, I could be totally wrong or misunderstood you, it just stood out when I read it... Legolas was so great when he tried to comfort the child and make him understand without frightening him, despite his own pain. It’s really a sign that he had good parents himself. Still, it was lucky for Faelas that Gilbard came along. I felt for poor Mirieth and Tathar as much as I did for Thranduil! You did a great job at showing how relieved Tathar was that his son was safe, while still fearing for his friend. And Thranduil! Ever the king in the way that he forms an alliance in the midst of all this, and still such a wonderful father. The thought of him kissing his son’s forehead as he lies almost lifeless in the grass... *sob* Great chapter!:)

LKK · 27 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Danger and Death

I loved this look at Legolas interacting with Tathor's son. Legolas' behaviour around children is a side of his personality that isn't often portrayed in fanfiction. Little Faelas is quite charming. I hope we see some more of him as your vignettes continue. I love elflings. :-) Wonderful chapter, jenolas, as usual. LKK

The Karenator · 26 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Danger and Death

jenolas, This was an exciting chapter. It was also one that gave us such a nice view of the relationship between Legolas, Tathar and his adorable little one. I think one of the things I like so much about your stories is the deep devotion and love you show between elven families and friends. After losing so many of their warriors at Dagorlad, they are a small and close knit group. It seems only natural that they would be so concerned and loving toward each other. And the rarity of little ones certainly makes them dear. I found myself getting jittery as Legolas and Faelas wandered in the forest. The young one certainly got an opportunity to see the dangers his ada and "his" Legolas cautioned him about. Legolas's first encounter with orcs was sure to be one to remember. The men were a needed surprise and I'm glad they were friendly and guarded Faelas and Legolas. Thranduil kept his kingly manner as he dealt with the men, but the moment he saw his son, all his fears and relief came rolling out. He was just Adar then. A very good chapter. Another one of my favorites. The humor at the beginning...Tathar doing his best Thranduil impersonation and cute little Faelas being, well, "cute"...were such fun to read. I'm looking forward to hearing about Legolas's healing and what happens next.

The Karenator · 26 October 2003 · Chapter 8: The Wizard Returns

jenolas, Another well done look into Mirkwood. I really like the way you portray the relationship between Thranduil and Legolas. There is such affection between them. The little note about Legolas's nana leaving the door cracked at night so he could get in was a nice touch. I'm thrilled for our friend Tathar. A new baby! I'm sure the whole realm is celebrating. I suppose though this will mean that Tathar will be growing up a bit. New responsibilites and all that. The trip to Rivendell was interesting and the information procured. Mithrandir's appearance was so wizard-like. All in all, I enjoyed this story as much as the others. They're a refreshing little journey to take and we get to spy on what's happening in the woodland realm. I look forward to more. :>) Karen

Dot · 25 October 2003 · Chapter 8: The Wizard Returns

I really enjoyed this chapter! Lots of Thranduil and Legolas with a dab of Elrond thrown in! I loved the very start with the little mention of Legolas’ mother. He and Thranduil have such a close relationship that it’s easy to forget that there’s someone missing. Plus, it’s such a motherly thing to do, to leave the door ajar so that the child can easily find his parents. Ah, Thranduil is just too good a king to trust that his people are safe without ensuring that he knows exactly what happened and who Mithrandir is. I’m glad he respects Elrond enough to go and ask his advice – and it’s so nice that he uses the trip as an excuse to spend time with his son! What a lovely image as well, them both standing on the balcony, Legolas’ head resting on his father’s shoulder. Honey on someone’s hairbrush??!! That’s so mean!! The tavern story was interesting. It’s quite funny to think of the elves pretending to be drunk and you really showed the animosity between the elves and dwarves. Tathar was a complete idiot, but I have to say (and I’m not being biased!) the dwarf who actually struck the table with an axe was surely at fault for the damage... I feel kind of sorry for poor Tathar now ‘cos Thranduil thinks he’s a bad influence – which is hilarious in its own way considering he’s an adult with a wife and now a child on the way! LOL! The thought of bribing Mithrandir with red wine. Funnily enough, it’d probably work too.... I’m so happy for Tathar! And it’s really sweet to see how excited Thranduil is. I guess it’s the closest he’ll get to being a grandfather for quite a while. ‘“You are to be promoted to leader of your group, and will be sent to monitor the activity of the spiders and any other foul creatures that inhabit the forest in the south.” “That is indeed good news”’ Hmmn. That’s good news?! I’d personally run a mile in the opposite direction but then, Legolas couldn’t exactly do that... And Thranduil really is sneaky! Of course, it’s good that Tathar won’t be in any danger when he is about to become a father but I think Legolas – and Tathar - would have something to say of they knew the real reason! I loved the sudden appearance of Mithrandir – he does enigmatic so well! I’m glad Thranduil has his advice and support, and it certainly looks as though he has settled in well!:)

TolkienFan · 24 October 2003 · Chapter 7: A Stranger Well Met

Well, another terrific chapter! I am in complete awe of how you wove the idea of the elves wanting to recover the body so thoroughly into the story - I suggested an itty-bitty teensy-weensy plot bunny, and you returned *lapin a l'orange en flambe*! (Okay, I confess: I do not know French. So, if I just cursed at you, it was accidental ... I promise!) Thranduil is, as usual, a grand character. I can just see him staring down his captains -- there is a threat in HIS realm and HE is going to deal with it as HE sees fit! His profound sense of responsibility obviously infuses his every thought, and every moment of his life. The teasing interplay between Legolas and Tathar is a delight. It is so obvious that they care for and respect each other, and value their friendship! And, it is also so clear that Tathar loves his wife, and that their marriage is in its early stages. Ahh, young love! I really enjoyed the visit to the village. That Legolas and Tathar would attract and enjoy the attentions of the village children is maybe not too surprising, but I also got the sense that the village leader was very impressed by the elves' compassion, and that Legolas found some understanding of the depth of the widow's grief. It was a learning experience for both sides, and bodes well for future dealings between the Elves and the villagers. Let's face it, if you, as a child, sat on Legolas's lap while he sung to you, you are not very likely to grow up prejudiced against Elves! The forest sounds, well, creepy! I really get the sense of impending doom, and the dismay of the Elves (and the trees!) that their once-beautiful forest is coming under such an evil assault. (But I also smiled at the trees' joyous response to the Elves' singing!) Mithandir's arrival was a big surprise. He must seem so mysterious to the these Elves. Thranduil does not seem accustomed to dealing with people who have as much - or more - innate power as he does. I am glad that Mithrandir helped, at least temporarily, to rid the southern forest of evil, and I also look forward to seeing his visit to Thranduil's halls in your story. As always, this story is a real treat, Jenolas! Please keep the updates coming! - Barbara