When Shadow Touches Home by daw the minstrel
LOTRFaith · 24 August 2003 · Chapter 10: Battles
Finally! I review:-) First of all, wonderful chapters, I've been in awe of you for the last story because of the way you are able to write with such clear definition. I love it! Second of all, I would like to email you and ask you if I could borrow a story plot for my next story. If would be from the One Year in Mirkwood. Please let me know if that would be ok. Any questions, lotr_redwall@yahoo.com And I await the next chapter! Namaarie! Faith
JustMe · 24 August 2003 · Chapter 10: Battles
I was glad to see that Ithilden and Eilian could finally work out their differences long enough to complete a successful mission. They are both stubborn (can't imagine where they get that from), but they both have unique skills that if coordinated properly make them a formidable team. Ithilden is really well suited to his role of commander of all the warriors. He is serious (to a fault), and very, very thorough. Eilian on the other hand, it also well suited to what he does best. Even though Ithilden may not like it, someone has to be the risk taker - and that someone is usually Eilian. He just needs to learn the fine line between risk and foolishness. Things do not look promising for Eilian and Celuwen. It looks as though her father is opposed to the match, although he has promised not to interfere. How could he even suggest that Eilian abandon his position as a warrior? That was rather pompous of him! Someone has to be there to protect those elves that are too stubborn to admit that the darkness has made it dangerous for them to continue their remote lifestyle. It is actually rather selfish of them to expect others to risk their lives to protect them. Hopefully, Celuwen will see things differently than her father. I would hate to see Eilian get hurt. But if he does, it seems as though there are plenty of volunteers to offer consoling hugs.
Nilmandra · 24 August 2003 · Chapter 10: Battles
Battle scenes are hard to write, but you pulled these off admirably, as always. Eilian gets to shine - and stubborn, proud Ithilden finally sees that he has to be Eilian's commanding officer and not look upon him as a younger brother he has to protect. As much as I love Eilian, I loved Solith's dressing him down! Good!Ada Solith! He wants what is best for his daughter. Now I am anxious to get back to lil Legolas in the next chapter.
Brenda G. · 23 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
Well, this is just another triumph to add to your long list. The further I venture into this story, the more I become entrenched in this family and the matters of life and death that confront them. I fear very much for the heart of Eilian in the chapters to come. Celuwen is becoming very dear to him. This chapter reveals the depth of his developing attachment to her. We know from your stories that chronlogically follow this one that she is not mentioned as Eilian's mate. As logic demands, there are only so many reasons why these two who obviously love each other so much would never bond. But you are the master of their fates, nor would I assume to predict what is going to happen to the lovely Celuwen. I hope her fate does not mirror that of the queen of Mirkwood, but I would not be surprised if that does indeed become her destiny. Whether she lives or dies, Eilian will experience grief on an even deeper level than currently. Poor little Legolas! Releasing his brothers' horses to keep them from riding off into battle was so touching to me--and desperate. It allows the reader to know just what turmoil grips this little one's heart. I really thought that Legolas might go against all he had learned about daggers and swords and actually hide those weapons from the beloved hands that would wield them. But, then, perhaps he realized how fruitless that would be. There are always more weapons to be had since all of Mirkwood has basically become a battlefield populated by warriors. If Legolas were not loved so deeply and so deliberately, then I don't believe the elfling would have survived. As it is, Thranduil is finding it a battle just to keep his youngest one from being swallowed up in despair and torn from his side. What a good father Thranduil is, but I see him struggle on so many levels to be this protector and sustainer of his youngest, indeed, to the entire Woodland Realm. There is so much darkness already in Legolas' young life, especially with the loss of his mother. At least the other two sons had the benefit of Lorellin's presence in their elfling years. My heart goes out to Thranduil at the dual role he is attempting to fill (mother and father), especially during those times when he seems as lost without his beloved Lorellin as his youngest son. This is a tale steeped in sorrow, but hope remains in this, as in all life, a knotted rope from which we all cling with the fierce tenacity it breeds in us. I'm bracing myself for the upcoming chapters. The winds of fate seem set to blow. Who knows how hard or widespread will be their path of destruction? You know, of course, and your readers will be made privy as future chapters unfold. Well written. Well done.
The Karenator · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
Daw, What a lovely chapter. So much resolution to be found. The problems haven't gone away, but the strength of the family is coming together. Ithilden is seeing his own feelings in Legolas and Eilian's intutitive nature is being recognized. Thranduil is doing a fine job of bringing them all back together now that he has gained some insight into the interal struggles of his sons. And Eilian and Celuwen are in love. I know it's too much to hope for good things for them, but I am anxious to find out what becomes of this relationship....besides, I think Eilian has so many admirers among your readers, her life may be forfeit anyway! Fangirls can be a vicious lot! My heart went out to them all at evening meal when Legolas reacted with such fear at the news of his brothers leaving. It's so hard on a little one to still such fear after the loss he has suffered and how heartbreaking it was for his adar and brothers to know his struggle. Legolas's plan to let his brothers' horses out was a good one to his way of thinking, but aren't elven horses trained a bit too well for them to just wander off? Well, it was a good try anyway. The last scene with his ada was very touching. The world, theirs and ours, would be such a better place if we all had adas so loving. A very satisfying chapter. Thanks, Karen
JustMe · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
Sorry that I have not reviewed the last couple of chapters (7 & 8), but I was out of town for a week and did not have access to a computer. But I sure had a lot of fun getting caught up! First of all - in chapter 7 - I have to tell you that I really loved it when Legolas proclaimed that Annael's Nana has powerful kisses. That was precious! I also had to giggle at Eilian and Legolas being sent off to do lessons while the "adults" discussed business. That little scene was further enhanced by the mention of counting orc toes and ears. Way to go Eilian - the perfect way to entice a youngster to complete a task that they may otherwise find unappealing. I loved seeing the "softer" side of Ithilden. Putting his head on Adar's shoulder - perfect! I actually had tears in my eyes when I read the scene between Ithilden and Legolas after Legolas tried wielding the sword. Yes, he was angry, but he was more scared than anything. Very insightful discussion he had with Legolas about feeling guilty - hopefully he comes to realize that he and Legolas are very much alike in that futile emotion. I found that I once again had tears in my eyes when Legolas released his brothers' horses in an effort to keep them from danger. That was so touching - he may be little, but no one can accuse him of not doing everything he can to protect the ones he loves. Speaking of love - I love the romance between Eilian and Celuwen. She seems like quite a girl and if anyone can tame that bad boy Eilian, I think it may be her ( but hopefully she doesn't tame him too much - we do like him to be just a little bad!!).
Nilmandra · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
Note to author: Eilian is MINE! I think I was most touched in this chapter by Legolas hiding in the corner of the stable, crying, when he realized his plan had failed. I am sure he thought he was in trouble too. But, Ada finally sees - what Eilian has been saying and what Ithilden has been saying. Now that Ada's eyes are opened, I suspect he will begin to see things in all four of them that are signs of grieving. Now healing really can begin. Poor Legolas, though. You made me cry again.
Sekhet · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
I forgot!! I meant to add how very afraid I am for Eilian and Celuwen. Given how Eilian is in later "episodes", his thoughts here of bonding with Celuwen are a little worrying and very, very poignant since it evidently doesn't work out. I can't wait to read how you'll do that, how you'll get Eilian through another loss and separation (I can only think of two ways it could happen, but I'll bet your resolution isn't what I might expect). Poor Eilian. Ithilden, we know, is going to be happy one day (despite himself, I suspect), but Eilian strikes me as such an essentially lonely character. I do like what you've done here, to create such wonderful, believable characters. Great stuff S
LKK · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
I admit that when I read the first chapter, I wasn't sure I'd continue reading. I mean no offense though. My reluctance came from a desire to not become interested in a host of OCs, not from than anything you had specifically written. But you drew me back chapter and chapter again. Now, I care as much for the king's sons that you created as I care for the son Tolkien created -- not to mention their father. You have painted a moving portrait of a family struggling to carry on after a terrible loss. I hope Thranduil's recent understanding about his youngest will expand to his middle child soon. It's high time someone other than Legolas has faith in Eilian.
Sekhet · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
Daw Another two great and wonderful chapters. Legolas with the dagger and the sword - oh, but there could have been major ouchies! But at last someone "responsible" (poor Eilian - forever cursed with that irresponsible reputation) has seen what Eilian has been trying to tell Thranduil for weeks. The image of a frightened Ithilden shaking Legolas was rather shocking, but then, Ithilden was rather shocked! Sword blades nicking your pants leg has that effect, I believe... What I loved about today's instalment was the way that Thranduil finally realises that Eilian has a valid point to make about Legolas, and I was irresistably (sp? sorry, no spellcheck) reminded of the bit in "In Mirkwood" where it's made plain that Thranduil has faith in Eilian as a judge of character, and I thought to myself "Clever Daw!". Better understanding all around, I think. And healing should really start now. So impressed. Sekhet
TreeHugger · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
I hate to say anything against Ithilden, but I am not sure if it is wise to have riders out by themselves regardless of the need to cover a larger area. That sounds entirely too dangerous! :( I am afraid that I laughed at dear old Maltanaur. Again he is going to "babysit" the king's sons. :/ I know how the sons in question feel about that, and I will just say that Maltanaur is very brave! ;) Thranduil is beginning to see the truth all about him. All his sons are angsting over the same thing, something he undoubtly struggles with himself. I also admit to laughing at Ithilden's repeated bristling. He does take everything so very seriously and so very personally. Poor dear. He never suspects that ada is speaking of him! GOod for Legolas. Don't touch any more swords, youngling. You aren't big enough to handle them yet. Goody! They are all together and mostly feeling good and well! :) That is a nice change, but we shall see what progresses. Oh dear. Legolas is not happy with this new developement though it has smoothed the path between Eilian and Ithilden. Poor child. Of course he doesn't want his brothers to go personally, not when Ithilden can command the others to go in their stead. And it is also understandable that Legolas wants them all to stay together and never be seperated. Poor baby. He couldn't take any more seperations of the kind he has just suffered. :( Oh my goodness! He loved Celuwen and he wants to bond with her?? Did I misunderstand that? I know that he isn't wedded to her later, so now I am rather anxious. :/ Is this swell of affection merely because of what he has suffered with his mother's death and the fear they are all living under now? Or does something happen that they can't be bonded? :( I am worried. OH NO! What is Legolas thinking?! This is not good. :( He thinks because he let the horses out then Ithilden and Eilian won't go. Poor baby. Life is never that easy to fix. "Eilian rolled his eyes. “You cannot imagine how many people have said that to me in the last two days,” he protested. " HM! Wonder why that could possibly be! ;D Well, finding Legolas hiding in the stall crying tells me that he knew that they would not stay merely because the horses had exited the building. It was very wise of the brothers to leave immediately, no drawn out farewells or explanations would help at this point. Very, very sweet and wonderful ending there! No better words were ever uttered in any language known to any race on Middle Earth or Modern Earth. Great as always and things are indeed progressing in the right direction. :D Elenath sila am le!
Naneth · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
I adored the scene of Legolas releasing the horses and then crying when he knew that his plan was not going to work. Children are so loving and so protective of those they love. This chapter showed that so beautifully! Great job as always!!!
Levade · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
I am SO sorry to have been so erratic at leaving reviews of this story! I do enjoy it tremendously! This was another tear-jerker for little Legolas and his family. I was the youngest of four and clearly remember the feeling of frustration at not have any control over what the others did, and being too little do any good. It's hard because you don't always understand why what you do is wrong, like Legolas letting the horses go free. You don't understand a great many things, and it's so very ...frustrating only touches the barest tip! I'm really enjoying the relationship between Eilian and Celuwen. I keep waiting for something to grab her and hope I'm wrong! And I wonder when Ithilden's future wife enters the story? :) Great, as always, and I could hug you for updating so quickly! Thank you for a terrific story and view into life of this family. Levade who shall try to remember to hit the review button instead of just gushing aloud. Telepathy needs improving.... ;)
Elemmire · 22 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries
Awww...that was sweet.
bryn · 19 August 2003 · Chapter 8: Forbidden Excursions
I debated on whether or not to post the review here or on... that other... site. (But we all know storiesofarda.com is the better of the two.) As I said before, I am very worried over the fate of Celuwen. It is nearing the point of hand-wringing. Legolas, Legolas, that darling little elfling (what a sweetheart!). My heart goes out to him. You've done a perfect job of capturing his innocence. *snort* WHY is Turgon getting a sword? The little monster is trouble enough as it is with sticks and mud. *lol* Good grief, what were his parents thinking?
TreeHugger · 19 August 2003 · Chapter 8: Forbidden Excursions
Well, gosh! What a chapter! Eilian is chomping at the bit again, and Ithilden is still holding the reins in check. Legolas can sense the tension in these two and that is unfortunate as he has enough of his own tensions to deal with. Not to mention the tension with his ada as well. Then Legolas and his obsession with having a weapon! It is too bad, but I do understand why he wants one so badly. Poor child. I hope though that he can see he is not ready for a weapon; they are dangerous and shouldn't be used by someone with no experience. I KNEW he would go after Ithilden's sword when he was looking at it when Ithilden was there. I guess the poke on his finger wasn't enough to deter him when his thoughts are so confused on the whole protection issue. Again, you can understand why he thinks this way. It is so sad to hear him say he doesn't want to get eaten by an orc. :( I do hope that Eilian won't do anything rash as Legolas is probably watching both of his brothers like a hawk just now. CHildren are always fascinated by the things forbidden to them for whatever reason. Yes, it is dangerous, I know this and that makes me want it MORE! I hope that Eilian and Gelmir's little side trip was exciting enough for the moment, as Ithilden is not letting him go anywhere further away at present. He should try to get his excitment close to home, and I suspect that Celuwen could and would gladly provide him with some of a different sort. :) Young love is so sweet! :D I am glad Legolas is doing his math. I never liked it, and honestly don't use a lot of what you had to learn in high school. :/ But...addition is used every day. :) That at least is necessary. I am glad that Ithilden told his thoughts about Legolas to his ada. Thranduil needs to know about all of his sons problems with coping. They are all having slight troubles just now, and I for one will be glad when they can all come to terms with what has happened and move past them. Very nice ending too. Lovely as always! Elenath sila am le!
Fadesintothewest · 19 August 2003 · Chapter 8: Forbidden Excursions
Oh this chapter touched me so closely. Little Legolas, struggling with the demons that haunt him, his guilt, so overwhelming in such young one. And Ithilden's response to hold him tightly, to blink back the tears, the sadness in his reply when Legolas asked if he would one day be a warrior too... omg he has to resign to the fact that legolas will be a warrior but only b/c things are getting much worse. Not even Thranduil can hold back that tide. Ok poor Eilian, they need to listen to him. I totally feel you Eilian, I am the youngest of five and no one pays heed to my words, well not as much anymore but I feel you. Yes I will comfort you, Celuwen who??
Nilmandra · 18 August 2003 · Chapter 8: Forbidden Excursions
If I were Eilian I would be beating my head against a brick wall. Haven't we all had the experience of having good ideas, but no one will listen to us? Then someone else says the same thing - and its such a novel and good idea! Eilian is the best scout, but Ithilden is blind to it. Legolas' behaviors are associated with his fears and grief over his nana's death, and Eilian sees it but Ada won't listen to him! Poor Eilian - he gets no respect. But, we are getting closer. Ithilden sees what Legolas is doing, and to some degree how Eilian's recklessness is part of his reaction to their mother's death, now we just need him to recognize his own reaction to it all. Eilian is the most insightful of them all. And poor Thranduil - he will pull it together because he loves his children. Little Legolas needs him too much for him to be clueless for long. Nice showing too - nowhere have you 'told' all this - but the characters behaviors are fascinating to watch.
The Karenator · 18 August 2003 · Chapter 8: Forbidden Excursions
Daw, How frustrating for Eilian. I think he's right. No one listens to him despite the fact that he is very perceptive. He would have groaned if he had heard the conversation between Ithilden and Thranduil regarding Legolas's feelings. He has been trying to tell Adar that for some time. I assume he is sensing orcs in the border areas. After so many of the out dwelling elves decided to return to their homesteads, I had to wonder if that included Celuwen and her mother. Poor Legolas and his hurt finger. Ithilden did a good job fixing him up, but Nana would have kissed it. Looking forward to the next chapter. Karen
TreeHugger · 16 August 2003 · Chapter 7: Going Home
That was a very nicely done chapter. I loved the interaction between the children at the beginning...playing at being orcs again, I see. Their "cave" made me think of the ones my friends and I used to make with chairs, a table and, a blanket, and then the ones my children made when they were younger. I am SO glad to see Legolas is finally eating on his own. Annael's mother is very special indeed. It seems that there is one house that the children gravitate toward and I am not surprised at all that it is Annael's. Boy! You can really see how their personalities are developing into what they will be later. Turgon already boasting that he will get a sword for his begetting day foreshadows that young one's life path. I was relieved when they decided to be warriors and the cave became a tent. Legolas and Thranduil seem to be on easier ground at the moment. It was very pleasant to see Legolas so glad to see his ada and walk home with him. And now Ithilden is home. I loved when he placed his head on Thranduil's shoulder. One should never be too old to do that with their parent. It certainly shows the depth of his feelings for his father and it must make Thranduil want to burst with happiness at this simple, trusting gesture. I laughed when Legolas asked Eilian if warriors had to do figures. LOL Don't we all ask that at some point. Why do I need to know this? LOL Eilian is very good with his younger brother. What a sweet romance is brewing between Eilian and Celuwen. I laughed at the other female and Celuwens' concerns. I don't blame her. Eilian must be very popular. With good reason! :) Wonderful chapter. You wrapped many emotions into it. :) Elenath sila am le!
Nilmandra · 16 August 2003 · Chapter 7: Going Home
I really liked the scenes with Legolas - playing with his friends, being 'mothered'by Annael's nana and then walking home with his Ada. He was so happy - and I have decided I love Happy!Legolas. It was good Thranduil came for him and saw Legolas like this. Ithilden is starting to get the idea that he is not in control - this is good. And Eilian - sounds like he is ever at odds with Ada! But there is progress for all of them.
The Karenator · 15 August 2003 · Chapter 7: Going Home
Daw, I loved the scene with Annael's mother suggesting the rowdy "orcs" might wish to silently sneak up on their prey. I had to laugh. How many of us mothers have said at one time or another, "Let's play the quiet game!" I was glad to see Legolas enjoying her bread and jam, too. Thranduil seemed pretty pleased, himself. And I guess even king's have messy little jam eaters, too. The walk home was nice. I was glad to see Thranduil recognize his need to spend time with Legolas and his own need to have a little fun. (A bit of a healing moment, I think.) Ithilden seems to be coming to grips with what he will have to do and the changes he will have to make. It was nice for him to get the reassurance from his adar that he was capable of only so much in offering protection to the outlying settlements. Yes, I think Ithilden was glad to be home and get a hug from his adar. I suppose we never get too old for a good hug from a parent. I also thought Eilian's reply to Thranduil when asked to take Legolas to the library was cute. I'm glad Thanduil realized he was joking. The scene with Eilian and Celuwen was interesting. They seem to be moving closer to something serious, but the circumstances are just so darn difficult. I was interested in what you said about them going to his bed chamber and the possibility of compromising her honor. It will be interesting seeing how this plays out and just how much intimacy two elves can have without going over that line that takes them into bonding. Good chapter. I'm looking forward to the next one. Karen
Tapetum Lucidum · 15 August 2003 · Chapter 7: Going Home
Ok, Ithilien dragged me over here so I thought I would confuse you by leaving this review on a different website. Legolas is so cute playing orc's! I am glad that switched to warriors too. Annael's mom is sweet for taking good care of him. I think I would die if one of my kids' friends parents showed up at the door - and it was the king! I would faint on the floor. You showed her apprehension very well. Then Legolas gets jam all over him - adding insult to injury. Sounds like the elfling is starting to wrap his Ada around his finger again. Stopping to play Poo sticks on the bridge - wait wrong story - looked like fun! Climbing on the railing over the freezing water is not fun. It must have been hard for him to decide between his Ada and his big brother - you made his confusion very sweet. I am glad that Ithilden has accepted his limitations. I am also glad you let Thranduil support him in that difficult decision. I am sure it was hard for them both to accept. Celuwen is continuing to pump her new beau for info - first it was her family. Should I be suspicious? Where do you prefer your reviews? Great job!
Brenda G. · 15 August 2003 · Chapter 7: Going Home
This chapter spoke one word to me: FAMILY. It must be hard, however, since all the remaining members in this family are male. I wonder many times about Legolas' mother. Perhaps in the future you could write a story about her, when she was young, how she met Thranduil, their courtship, their marriage, when she conceived her first child, then skip ahead to perhaps a year before her death and reveal to us the sure foundation that all of her sons were built upon. I would love a story that explores her and her relationship to all the other members of this remarkable family of elves. I'll bet your other readers would find such fare immensely interesting, if not down right enthralling! How good it would be to learn more about the "queen behind the king." Back to Chapter Seven - thank goodness our little Legolas is beginning to smile and show some interest in nourishment once again. Turgon, for all his wild ways, is good for Legolas. It is nice to have friends and fun times when the world all around you is so dark and dangerous. I am so impressed by the bond between Thranduil and his sons - each one different but also the same. He is a very good father, I think. I admire him as well as the older brothers. Eilian is almost my favorite, although I cannot determine why. Perhaps it is his sense of "carpe diem" that finds resonance in my own soul. I believe we all yearn deeply to live life as daringly as does Eilian. I'm SO GLAD you did not kill him off in A Year In Mirkwood!!!! Had you done that, you may have incited a riot among your own fans!! You're a wonderful writer. Can't wait for your next post! Soon, please?? Brenda G.
Sekhet · 15 August 2003 · Chapter 7: Going Home
Whoo-hoo - back from a couple of weeks off line and I find myself with 5 - count 'em! - 5 chapters to catch up on. Just had a very happy half hour doing exactly that. Daw, I won't even try to comment on each of these individually, but will only say that this is a masterly portrayal of a family trying to come to terms with loss - Eilian's recklessness in order to kill as many orcs as he can in revenge, Ithilden's deep guilt at what he sees as his failure (and he's too like his father to accept, much less enjoy, his failings), Thranduil's distance - and little Legolas' endearing naughtiness and grief. I just loved his "low growl" when Thranduil scolded him for the fire - I fear that Legolas was still a little orc at that particular moment! This last chapter's just lovely. Healing is starting, without any of them really realising it. Just lovely. I have a bad feeling about Celuwen, though, when you consider Eilian's later history with the ladies... Thank you. You and Jasta between you make LoTR worth reading. Sekhet.