Reviews (247)

Arbelethiel · 22 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

Thranduil doesn’t know about the rings, does he? Or he wouldn’t be wondering why the Shadow doesn’t touch Lórien. I like Sinnarn (I like all elflings really!) and I especially liked his interaction with Mithrandir. A beard must look really extraordinary to a beardless people. “We are more than happy to leave that in your capable hands.” ROTFLOL! Some warriors they are! They would affront a troup of orcs without flinching, but ask them to announce to the King that they are NOT posting his son to a relatively safe place, and suddenly they’re all too happy to deck the responsibilities! :D Ithilden definitely had it easy. His father trapped himself with this comment about Sinnarn. I loved the vigil part. I really felt that Legolas was growing up, maturing, just before my eyes. Now, we’ll have to see if he keeps this maturity :) ~Arbelethiel

Dot · 22 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

That was brave of Mithrandir to tell Thranduil of the council’s lack of action. I don’t think I’d want to be delivering bad news to that particular elf if he was sitting in front of me twisting a dagger in his hand... I just love Thranduil in his role as grandfather! He’s obviously besotted with Sinnarn and so completely indulgent of him, more so than he was with his own sons. Although, I suspect he may have been the same with Ithilden as his firstborn. Eilian was clearly much more of a handful if even Mithrandir remembers him as an elfling. The old wizard seems thoroughly amused, though, by the doting grandfather who only a few seconds earlier was kicking the fire grate in frustration. You really do write elflings so well. “I am not bothering you, grandfather” LOL! I really liked the meeting between Ithilden and the novice masters. I thought it was so fascinating to watch Ithilden struggle to distance himself emotionally and listen to what they were saying. I’m glad Annael is going to the Home Guard. Thelion is right that he will be looked after there during this difficult time for him but it also seems to be the best place for him if he wants to live the type of life his father loved. It’s such a lovely idea that they all consider the elf rather than just his skills when deciding where to place the new warriors. Penntalion was so funny! I’m still grinning at his enthusiasm. It’ so interesting that the novice masters seemed to pick up on the fact that Legolas feels familial pressure when his family don’t really see it. Legolas can’t escape his duty, and wouldn’t want to, but he does seem to need to feel useful. It is absolutely to Ithilden’s credit that he listened to them and accepted their choice, despite his fear of sending his younger brother into danger. Hmmn, methinks Alfirin deserves an apology from her father-in-law. Thranduil may have been right in his judgement of Sinnarn but surely he knows better than to come between a mother and her son! I felt so sorry for Thranduil, though. He’s always wanted to protect his sons, particularly Legolas, but his obvious dread at the thought of letting him go is quite heart-breaking. The description of Legolas’ thoughts during the vigil was beautiful. It’s a lovely idea to take each worry, understand it and then let it go. I’m so glad he can understand his father at last – even if it’s only for a while. And I’m sure Thranduil knows that Legolas often needs his father as much as he needs his son. At least, I hope he does. *sigh* I feel all serene now...;)

JustMe · 22 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

So Thranduil had his own words thrown back at him and used against him. That had to hurt! But at least both he and Ithilden seem to be (sort of) willing to listen to the advice given to them by the novice masters. It also seems as though Legolas is willing to accept whatever assignment comes his way. The assignment to the border patrol would be a sort of compromise for all parties involved. It is not exactly what Legolas originally, although unrealistically, hoped for but by the same token it is not as tame an assignment as his Adar expected. Should make for some interesting situations. It is time for the little bird to fly! With Legolas gone, will Thranduil turn his attentions to Sinnarn? That could cause the sparks to fly between him and Ithilden! The possibilties are endless! The coming of age ceremony and vigil seem like such a beautiful experience. A time to reflect and contemplate before moving on to the next phase of life. As always your characters are realistic and their reactions to the situations they find themselves in are believable. The fact that your readers are so often moved to tears of anguish or mirth is proof of this fact. Thank you again for taking the time to share your stories with us!

jebb · 22 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

Poor Thranduil to be losing his 'baby' and well done to him to even think about the patrol rather than the home guard. It played out well for Ithilden which must have been a relief for having to tell Thranduil his youngest was to go out into danger was hard indeed. Very much like the beginning of the coming of age where Legolas at least briefly admits to himself that he still needs Ada.

Jay of Lasgalen · 22 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

I wondered if Legolas would still be sent to the Eastern patrol - I agree with the novice masters, he'd be better off if he wasn't under the eagle eyes of his father and brother. Although it makes sense for Annael to stay in the Home Guard, I hoped they would serve together. I like the description of his vigil, especally the blessing Thranduil gave him; also the way Thranduil and Ithilden stay close, but not too close, during the night. Jay

Antigone_Q · 22 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

I liked the whole chapter, but the thing I liked best was the vigil in the last part. I like to think of the Elves as being very aware of their natural surroundings. It was also nice to see Legolas just letting his worries go for once. Must have been a shock to Thranduil's system to find out that he truly was not going to be able to protect his youngest forever. I feel sorry for him, although I think that Legolas getting out from under his father and brothers' ever-watchful eyes is a very good idea. I wonder if Legolas will be surprised at how he feels once he really does not have his brothers and father to turn to constantly. It was interesting to see both fathers worry a bit about how much they should "let go" of their children. Thranduil probably has a better perspective about other people's children, though he'll have to learn not to intervene too much with Ithilden's family.

Brenda G. · 22 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

Great chapter, this one and the one before. I'm getting behind (which I hate), but while we can control the boat, we cannot always control the waves beneath it. I seem to be battling white caps of late. Legolas is all grown up (sigh). I believe I am feeling as much pride and fully as much loss as does his father about now. How hard it will be for Thranduil to see Legolas off - his youngest, the baby of the family - and to the Eastern Patrol, at that. War, however, is no respecter of persons, be they Elves or otherwise, nor does it care for the grief or fear of a father's heart. I'm glad Beliond is now on the scene. It relieves me to have an experienced warrior watching Greenleaf's back in the wilds of Mirkwood. I wonder if Legolas will value his "freedom from family" as much as he thinks he will once he has achieved it. I do, however, agree with the reasoning of Legolas' trainers. He'll only fly on his own when he is allowed to. It will be interesting to see how he fares on his first solo. I found it amusing and mildly painful when Ithilden had to instruct his own father about father-son relationships. That sort of set Thranduil back a bit, but I think it was necessary. Ithilden is such a good son - strong, steady, dependable and able to impart truth gently. I hope his son mirrors him when he grows up, but Sinnarn seems to take after his Uncle Eilian (at least so far he does). Sinnarn is fast arrowing his way into my heart. What a little nunchkin. Now you will have another elfling to write stories about! Legolas letting go reminds me of how much we probably all need to trek to the woods and do a little soul-searching and soul-freeing ourselves. The vigil scene was written so beautifully - very moving and tender. Gives your readers some insight into the heart behind such exquisite fare. Well, on a scale of 1 to 10, I give you a 25 on this one. It is simply marvelous. Looking forward to Legolas' coming-of-age ceremony; I even have my own personal box of Kleenex on hand for just such an occasion! Are you enjoying TTT-EV? It's terrific! BG

Aly · 22 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

Wonderful chapter. I've loved all your stories so far. It's hard to see Legolas growing up. You're stories are so real. You really know how to draw your readers in. I look forward to the rest of this story and any more you choose to write (hopefully lots more!).

Lera · 21 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

Wow. That chapter was so full! All the scenes with Sinnarn were very interesting. As much as I love my parents I don't think I'd want to raise my children under the same roof. It's so interesting how Thranduil won't put up with any nonsense from his sons, but is willing to let loose a little with his grandson. Since he saw the need to keep a tight rein on his own sons, does he not see the need for it with Sinnarn? I'm not sure which would be worse: grandparents that completely spoil the grandkids or grandparents that are extremely strict and are constantly pointing out the children's mistakes. Well, Legolas is going to be happy. I think it will be really good for him to gain experience as a warrior away from his family.(as wonderful as they are) Actually though, I think Legolas will find it harder than he expects being away from the protective cocoon of his family. And not being with Annael will be hard on him. We'll see. At least he'll have Beliond with him!

Nilmandra · 21 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

Even the second time through, my favorite spot is still Sinnarn on the wall, Thranduil's interference and Ithilden's using his father's own words against him! That was perfect. How hard it is for all of them to let go of Legolas! Well, at least Sinnarn is still a baby, and they can keep him so for many more years to come :D I like Legolas' thoughts as he holds his vigil, and particularly his acceptance that he likes the protection of his father's arms.

Karri · 21 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

Ouch! that had to hurt...to have told Legolas in no uncertain terms that he could not be placed with the border guard, then be told that was where to place him. Poor Ithilden!

naneth · 21 November 2003 · Chapter 12: Children

Another beautiful ceremony! Legolas has learned an important lesson early in his life-most troubles are really small when compared to the real tragedies of life, such as Siondel's death. I found the scene in the woods between Legolas and Thranduil to be very moving. I identify with Thranduil's fear of his child growing up and moving out. I have a daughter getting ready to graduate high school and start college in the fall. It's doggone hard to say "yep, you're all grown up now. Be safe. See you later!" And I'm only sending her to college to study engineering. I can't imagine sending a child off to war. Poor Thranduil. And Legolas gets to go to the eastern border patrol. Yipee for Legolas and us. I see some exciting stories in the works!

Lera · 21 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

I really enjoyed that chapter. You have the ability to write exciting, fast paced chapters filled with adventure, and calmer chapters of everyday life, and both are equally enjoyable to read. I can't figure Synia. I can understand wanting to apologise, but she seemed to do a little more than that. I don't know. I guess I don't blame her for not wanting to give him up. Who would? So, Legolas finally got his body guard. I was wondering if and when he would. Beliond doesn't seem a bad guy. It could get annoying if he gives a performance critique everytime he sees Legolas fight. Actually that could be really helpful, but only if Legolas has the right attitude about it. It's funny. Legolas barged into Ithildien's office demanding that he not be treated as a brother. I doubt he would have done anything of the sort if his commanding officer had not been his brother. I thought Ithildien reacted well. Poor Legolas. It was very humbling. And now Gandalf enters the scene. I wonder if he has anything to report on the counsil. When did Legolas meet him before? Is it in a story? Thanks for the great chapter as usual.

Dot · 20 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

Tough times for Legolas, eh? I do like to see Thranduil in protective mode, though, no matter how much it annoys his youngest son! I loved the way Legolas greeted Elowen. He really showed her how much she means to him, as he did with Annael. I still feel so sorry for them. They are the last people to deserve such heartache, but then I suppose that’s just the way the world works. I had actually nearly forgotten about Synia with all the excitement! I have to admit that I’m feeling a teensy bit guilty for disliking her so much.... She was generous enough to spend time with Annael and his mother and then her apology to Legolas probably took a lot of courage. They all seem to be doing a lot of growing up now. It is quite strange, actually, to think of Annael bonding and maybe having a child. I suppose it’s because Legolas still seems like such a child at times and nowhere near that stage that it’s difficult to imagine his best friend doing so. Still, I’d be so happy for Annael if he did bond – and Beliniel sounds perfect for him! Ooh, there’s Beliond! Y’know, you do an incredible job in keeping your characters consistent and ensuring that any changes to their behaviour makes sense, justifying any decisions they might make. As a reader I thought I’d be a little wary of Beliond because of your later story but I have to say that even in the short appearance he makes here you made it easier for me to accept him as he is now and to allow you to develop his character for good or for bad in any way you want. That probably didn’t make any sense... I felt a chill, though, when he spoke to Legolas about his technique in the passage “you have excellent technique, and to your own credit, you fight without fear. If you can learn to control your temper, and use your anger to defeat your enemy rather than yourself, you will become an adequate swordsman”. Was it just me or could he just as easily be speaking about Eilian here? Eilian has had to learn some hard lessons – I hope Legolas listens to Beliond so that maybe he won’t have to. Woah, it’s not often Ithilden loses his cool! It’s probably wrong of me to be smiling through that scene but I do so love to see all-powerful Ithilden now and then! I like the way that he’s always so fair, no matter what the situation and realises that Legolas is under a lot of strain at the moment. He also knows exactly the right words to use in order to make Legolas see how unacceptable his behaviour is. It’s funny that Legolas never realised that Ithilden probably experienced exactly the same things he did, and maybe worse as he was an only child. It must give him hope, though, when he sees how his brother turned out and the faith his father puts in him. So, Mithrandir has arrived. I wonder what news he brings with him...?!:)

Antigone_Q · 20 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

I don't care how nice Synia is being, I still don't like her. Thranduil is always a little overprotective, but he must have been _very_ worried while he was away because he has just about surpassed himself in this chapter. It shows Legolas' growing maturity that he has learned not to react too much to Thranduil's well-intentioned fussing...or at least, it seems to show his maturity right up until he loses his temper with his brother. Ithilden unfortunately seemed to get caught in the crossfire here - the "appropriate" person for Legolas to yell at would have been Thranduil, but Ithilden was safer, so of course Ithilden is the one Legolas lets off steam with. All things considered I thought Ithilden was actually quite nice about it. I hope Beliond and Legolas get along - it wouldn't hurt for Legolas to have a friend, or at least a comrade, who will go where Legolas does, since it seems likely (at least to me) that Annael will be posted with the home guard. Hm, Mithrander came back with Thranduil? Maybe he'll have some sage advice for the king about mellowing out a little. Is Legolas going to have his coming-of-age ceremony soon?

meckinock · 19 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

I was so heart-wrenching to see poor Legolas's desperation at the prospect of being assigned to the Home Guard. As a youngster (of any race), his initial posting as an adult would have seemed enormously important to him. I could sense his fear that his dreams would be quashed by the over-protectiveness and sheer apathy of his elders. They just don't realize how important this is! Ithilden was great - first (rightly) dressing Legolas down and then showing just enough respect and affection to salvage the poor elfling's ego. Nice touch where Ithilden mentioned that he, as the eldest, had to endure his father's over-protectiveness single-handedly! I also loved when Legolas asked if his father would get over it "in this age". Poor Legolas at the end, when his father dismisses him from the social festivities. The extent to which you flesh out these characters with realistic and moving personalities and motivations is amazing.

The Karenator · 19 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

Things sort of came to a head here. I'm still not overly concerned about Thranduil's overprotectiveness. He is, but it takes time to re-negotiate roles AND Legolas does such a fine job of still needing supervision. Even when the official date arrives for adulthood, that doesn't always mean that the maturity level is on the same schedule. And the woodland elves are in such a life and death situation. It's not just drinking underage (which is bad enough), it's having All the skills to meet the enemy. I thought Ithilden described Legolas well when he said he was impressed by his maturity at times and dismayed by his irresponsibility and petulance at times. You've captured this transitional stage well. I like what Ithilden said about all new warriors needing protecting until they gain experience. The whole little hissy fit scene was quite good. They both had valid points and in the end, Ithilden being in command wasn't the only resolution, but his experience as a warrior and as his father's son was a good place for understanding to come for the two brothers. Beliond should be interesting. I imagine he's as unflappable as Maltanaur, but I seem to remember from 'A Question of Duty' that Legolas felt Beliond still treated him as a child looking for adventure. I look forward to seeing more of his personality. Mithrandir was a nice surprise. He is always good to lift spirits...well, at least for me...and to drop a wise word or two. I enjoyed this chapter very much. I look forward to the next. Karen

Camp6311 · 19 November 2003 · Chapter 10: Coming Home

It was a relief to have the pressure valve backed down a little on this chapter. The funeral scene was very touching, I liked seeing Maldor speak so tenderly. He reminds me of french bread, hard and crusty on the outside, and soft and warm on the in. I'm glad he has a wife who can see through his crustiness. I'm curious though, do they have any children? I had to feel for Thanduil at the end of this chapter. He's been so worried about Legolas that he's driven his men hard to get home, and then the first thing he has to do is reprimand his son, and he hadn't even made it home yet! Parenting is never an easy job. I see the next chapter is posted, cool!

naneth · 19 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

I was afraid that the visit to Annael's cottage would be really difficult emotionally. It wasn't at all, in fact it was sweet and lovely. I think that Elowen's home must be a very special place for Legolas. Everywhere he goes he is seen as the king's son, and is treated accordingly. He must also behave accordingly. In Elowen's home, he is simply Legolas...with shoes that need tying, a bumped head that needs a kiss, a hungry tummy to fill with bread and jam or fried fish. He can scare Elowen while playing orcs, and she still loves him. He can take her son out hunting at night without an adult, and she still loves him. He can come to her home drunk, and she feeds him breakfast! It seems to be the one place in the kingdom that he can just be Legolas without worrying about his "position" and "duties". I knew your introduction of the keeper would be hilarious. Beliond should add some interesting moments to life as Legolas knows it, just as I'm sure that Legolas will add some interesting moments to Beliond's life!

JustMe · 19 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

Ouch! Were there any toes that Legolas didn't step on in the chapter? He offended Synia, Ithilden and Beliond. I guess if you are going to do something, you might as well do it "whole hog" so to speak. He really needs to take an anger management course, doesn't he? Seriously, this is a really tough age he is going through. He feels he is ready to enter the adult world, but the adults make him feel like an elfling. Poor boy! Being the son of the King probably makes it more difficult. The other warriors don't have "babysitters" to contend with. He is definately not in an enviable position. He just wants to be like everyone else and be judged for his abilities, but no one can seem to get past the fact that he is a member of the royal family. He needs someone he can confide in, and right now that seems to be something that is missing in his life. He definately has the family temper - I'm sure that both of his brothers would rebel at being treated this way. It's just that Legolas has not yet learned the fine art of tact (although I would suggest he take lessons from Ithilden and not Eilian in this matter!). If he finds that he needs someone to talk to, please let him know that I am available - I will even provide the milk & cookies!

caz - baz · 19 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

hahaha! that was great. i've been surpressing my laughter as i'm in a internet cafe. might be a bit embnarrasssing if i laughed out loud in front of all these peeps. well i better go or i'll run out of mula! great chapter. eagerly waiting for the next. caz - baz

Tapetum Lucidum · 19 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

I can tell Legolas is at the end of his elven rope. Thranduil must be driving him crazy. You would only think the king would have enough to distract him after several weeks absence so as not to hover excessively. I guess not. Legolas must have been ready to run the entire way to Annael's. His chin must have hit the floor when he saw Synia. You handled the awkwardness well. I could almost see him shifting uncomfortably. At least she fled to help with tea. I snickered at the line "He just needed to remember to tell her that she was expected." Now who is manipulating his fellow elves? That was cute. I am glad Annael has found true love in Beliniel. It is nice to see him so happy. Synia and Legolas' pangs of jealousy were cute and very adolescent. I'm glad she was able to clear the air between them. I guess Legolas is not very tactful. I'll just bet he is a good kisser. I think it is cool to have Beliond assessing Legolas' skill and weaknesses. It is important for him to know his strengths and weaknesses. That is quite a temper tantrum that the novice threw. I didn't know he was quite so volatile. Going to see big brother/commander in chief while in such a mood is a very, very bad idea. Sometimes he does act like a petulant child. He needs to learn that although he is superior with the sword and bow he lacks the experience he will need in battle. Even Eilian has made some mistakes in judgement in the heat of things. I think his retreat to the trees was long overdue. I am glad Mithrandir could come along and distract him. I like how you ended the chapter like you started it - with Thranduil hovering. Extended DVD was GREAT. There was less new Legolas than I would have hoped (of course there is never enough). I think PJ put all of his Orlando footage in the cinema release knowing it would sell more tickets. There are a lot of nuances covered in the book that were skipped in the movie. I won't spoil it for you. Geld a horse? cow, goat, pig, dog, cat, whatever. My husband is a light sleeper. Tapetem, DVM

jebb · 19 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

Not all of us are watching TTT and this was a great chapter from Thranduil's hovering and concerns through to the confrontation with Ithilden which really made me see Legolas through his brother's eyes and made me respect Ithilden even more this was superb thnk you

Arbelethiel · 19 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

Thranduil anguished over Legolas for a week without being able to see him, so now he is making for lost time. I’m surprised that he even lets Legolas out of his sight :D I like seeing Legolas with Annael and his mother. For some reason, they seem to bring out the best in him. And I’m happy that he could come to an understanding with Synia. Ooooh! sweaty Elves! I look forward to seeing more of Beliond. I had rather liked him in A Question of Duty. let me tell you that I occasionally have moments when I marvel at how mature you have become, followed closely by moments when I wonder how you could be so irresponsible that you would ride with your foot splinted or so spoiled that you would walk into your commander’s office and behave like a petulant child *snort* Couldn’t have put it better myself :) That’s what makes part of Legolas’ charm, I suppose. He simply did not want to stand guard duty at the palace for the rest of his life. Funny, because I am practically certain that he captains the Home Guard by the time of A Question of Duty, though I can’t find the reference now. I’ll probably have to read it again (any excuse ;) ). I’ve lost track of the time. When is Legolas’ coming of age ceremony supposed to take place? Thank you for this chapter, ~Arbelethiel

LOTRFaith · 18 November 2003 · Chapter 11: Looking Ahead

I think that is exactly what Legolas needed. A good scolding from his older brother. :-) I think he was expecting to be put on the South Patrol not only because he is excellent with archery, but because he is a prince, and probably thought that because that is what he wanted, that is what he would get. It is good to see that Ithilden has no trouble to straight out tell Legolas what he thinks of his behavior. I speak from experience of course;-) I hope to see more of Eilian. I like him a lot;-)I hope that he and Celuwen find a way. I still can't believe that Siondel is dead. He was an elf that really stood out. (thanks to you;-) Namaarie! LOTRFaith