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Sons of Kings  by jenolas 4 Review(s)
DotReviewed Chapter: 12 on 11/1/2004
Ooh, I really liked this chapter. It sounds like the lads from Gondor are having a ball! LOL at them not being able to drag themselves from their beds after the previous night.

I must say, I loved the relaxed atmosphere of the contest, with anyone who wished to entering and nothing but some very friendly rivalry. I’m feeling a bit bad for not thinking of how well Faramir might do! Of course, it makes sense that he’d possess great skill. You’ve shown a wonderful sense of friendship throughout this story between Faramir and Legolas so it was lovely to see the two of them left on the field, turning the contest into an opportunity to show off and have fun.

I don’t blame Sarien for feeling a little inadequate when he sees Faramir’s skill but I’m glad he had his friend there to reassure him. Eldarion is very encouraging now that he’s come to accept the different futures in store for him and his best friend. You made me laugh at the two of them plotting together for Eldarion to spend a few days now and then with the rangers!

I just love the way Thranduil appears suddenly out of nowhere. I hadn’t really thought before about how Eldarion and Sarien’s friendship reflects in some ways that of Aragorn and Legolas in earlier days. And of course, Legolas was witness to Aragorn learning to be a king, just as Sarien sees Eldarion’s struggle.

Tsk, is Legolas distracted from his duties again?! I LOVED the image of Thranduil and Eldarion sparring!! It was good of Thranduil to indulge the young man and give him a chance to show off his obvious talent, even if it isn’t quite to the standard of the elves. Actually, Thranduil should spar with another elf and show the men some real skill! He seems to have made Eldarion’s day too by telling him that he used some of Elrond’s moves! It’s lovely to see how proud and happy he is of this and I think it’s great too to know that something of Elrond is passed down through his line.

I had to smile at Eldarion insisting on wearing his coronet! It seems that he displays his position with complete pride now and he seems so much more at ease with his role.

I’d nearly forgotten in all the excitement that the parting between Sarien and Eldarion would still have to come. Eldarion seems to have accepted it but that still won’t stop him from missing his friend.

Oh well, on to the next chapter… :-)


Author Reply: Thraduil is definitely also wearing his 'adar'hat when dealing with Eldarion who is still very young by elvish standards, and also in his indulgence of Legolas's behaviour. In his son's case it is likely that Thranduil is enjoying seeing the carefree spirit overriding the suffering and angst of the sea longing.

The time for going their separate ways has arrived but both Eldarion and Sarien have now come to terms with that particular fact of life.

BodkinReviewed Chapter: 12 on 10/31/2004
I liked the Faramir / Legolas archery competition. Faramir would be much better than an novice ranger - he's had years of practice to go with his perfectionist nature.

Eldarion's coming to terms with his role - now we don't want him becoming arrogant. What a fine line to walk!

Good match between Eldarion and Thranduil - very father / son in nature - encouraging, making it hard enough, but not too hard and coming out with the kind of comments designed to make Eldarion feel proud.

Liked Thranduil's comment about Legolas being too busy playing to look after his guests.

Author Reply: Thranduil is a role model for Eldarion that possibly not even Aragorn could be in some ways.

Thranduil is certainly very indulgent of his own son, carefree young Wood elf that Legolas is at times.

daw the minstrelReviewed Chapter: 12 on 10/30/2004
I really like the way that Eldarion is developing here. He's a believable young adult who is coming to understand himself and his role in the world.

Author Reply: Yes, he is becoming a very mature young man.

elliskaReviewed Chapter: 12 on 10/30/2004
Another great chapter. I like the comparison of Eldarion and Sarien to Legolas and Aragorn. That must have made Eldarion think about some things. But I loved Thranduil sparing with Eldarion and pointing out that he sees some of Elrond's skills in the boy. That would make you extremely and rightfully proud. I'm glad to see that Eldarion is saying he is the son of the king with pride now. It won't always be easy, but he has learned some things. Loved it. Post again soon.

Author Reply: Eldarion's learning process is also having a positive effect on his elders as they come to see some things in a new light. Next chapter is posted.

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