Reviews (178)

Jebb · 6 December 2003 · Chapter 3: A First Patrol

Men and dwarves why do I get the feeling something unpleasent this way comes Legolas has done well on his first day but Beliond will need more before he relaxes his gaurd if he ever does I love that time can be take nto make a story with all the little nuances that make story telling so worthwhile for those of us lucky enough to be reading

Fadesintothewest · 6 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

Ai, been out sick and am still slowly recovering, but I finally managed to get back on line! It seems the lartest lesson Legolas will have to learn is learning to accept Beliond, and likewise. It seems that Legolas and Eilian share many traits as in common in siblings. I will enjoy seeing Legolas grow as a warrior and see how he eventually becomes the Legolas we all love!

Tapetum Lucidum · 4 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

Aack! I am so behind - stupid visiting relatives. Don't they know the holidays are for reading, not socializing? The warrior ceremony was very touching. I am glad that Legolas is so excited about this big change is his life. He and Annael must be about to burst. I am worried for Eilian. He is really taking everything so hard these days. Legolas wants the respect of Beliond but he doesn't seem to want the give the old warrior the respect that he deserves. That is not usually like him. I guess all of the recent changes have gone to his head. I imagine you will set him straight soon. In this chapter Legolas' patience continues to wear thin. He won't even speak to his keeper politely. No wonder Beliond thinks he is a spoiled brat. He is certainly acting like one. I can't really blame Beliond for treating him with disdain. They are not getting off on the right foot are they? (I think they are using Legolas' broken one) It is good to see that at least Todith has not judged the young archer yet. The flat spot on the back of his rune is very cute. I can see a nervous Eilian playing with it as well. I am glad to see Tynd in the patrol. At least Legolas will have one friend. Tinar is there too? That should make things more interesting. He is going to learn a lesson in humility in archery. I like it when you add troublesome characters. They keep things very interesting. I am glad Eilian is well enough to leave the palace. The distraction will do him some good. Is it going to be Absence makes the heart grow fonder? or Out of sight, out of mind? Pick a cliche. He and Celuwen still have some issues to resolve don't they? His sadness on his flet was well described and my heart went out to him again. The two rune necklaces were clever. Legolas' excitement over sleeping beneath the stars was very cute. It was also very in keeping with his youthful character, as was his loneliness. Great job as usual! Tapetum

Dot · 3 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

Hmmn. Your warriors seem to be finding it a little tough to get used to their new situations. You did a fantastic job in showing the awkwardness they both feel as they take up their new positions. Beliond is really quite funny – he’s one of these people who make you wonder if he can hear himself when he talks. He reminds me of someone but I can’t quite place who it is. Maybe it’s Maldor, actually. I can see why he thinks Legolas is arrogant but I think Todith is probably right in his assertion that most young elves are. It must be difficult for someone of Beliond’s experience to be given such an assignment anyway. I hope Legolas does win his respect at some point. Oh look, it’s Tynd! I’m so glad you decided to include some familiar faces – I was beginning to fear that I’d never know who was who in these patrols, but you’ve made it easy for me. And there’s Tinar! LOL! He’s at least learned to hold his tongue a little, anyway. Galelas seems to be getting on a bit better than his brother. It was strangely touching that he was so grateful when Eilian remembered his name! I’m sure everyone will say it, but… poor Eilian. He’s really struggling, isn’t he? Still, at least he’s determined to make an effort. I just wish that he could see past his anger and stop blaming Celuwen for his life spiralling out of control. I think deep down he’s more angry at himself, though – a problem he seems to have had right from the start. How sweet is Maltanaur?! Either that or desperately going to any length to protect his rather unpredictable charge…. At least he made Eilian happy, even for a fleeting moment. Sometimes I think Eilian just needs to be reassured that he is loved. I thought the final paragraph was a perfect insight into Legolas’ first night away from home and his friends. And what do you bet that while his two sons are lying awake in the forest there’s a certain elvenking feeling a little lonely too…? Ah well, I’m sure they’ll all get used to these changes soon enough!

LOTRFaith · 3 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

I can certainly see why Legolas is rather upset at Beliond's presence. And I can certainly see why Beliond is upset at having to 'babysit' Legolas. I am well familiar with both situations, but you portray the tension so well that I can't help but feel a little jealous at how you can easily twist the words the way you want them, while I am stuggling to put my thoughts down and make them into a chapter that everyone will like. (sigh) Self-pity party here. Can you tell;-) I feel sorry for Eilian, but he certainly does need a break. I am glad that both Ithilden and Thranduil have agreed to send him to a lighter task. Namaarie! LOTRFaith

naneth · 3 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

I find it humorous that in the last story, Legolas was longing for the "freedom" of being an adult, and in this chapter, he feels as though he is an elfling again because of Beliond's constant observation. I am loving your attention to those small details that make your story wonderful. As Todith settled under the shade of that oak tree, I could feel the warm sunshine even though it's overcast and cold here! I'm glad Legolas has a friend in the group. When he's around Beliond, he isn't at his best. Hopefully, Tynd will help Legolas to merge into the group and feel more "at home", but also, hopefully, he will be the mature adult that we know he *can* be when he's with Tynd. Thank you for the scene with Maltanaur and Eilian. It was so touching when Maltanaur presented the rune to Eilian. I still think that Eilian is in need of a good group hug, and I volunteer to help with that!

caz-baz · 3 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

i think i'd die before i became a warrior. i can't put up being around people for very long at all. my new room is at the very top of the house and i'm on my own floor. Yay! but then everyone still wants to pester me every minute of the day even when i'm trying to sleep. oh, well. least it's not as bad a situation Legolas is in right now.

Jebb · 3 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

Lovely chapter so Legolas finds his new freedom to be less than he expected back to the bottom of the pile and with a built in baby-sitter who doesn't seem too impressed with his new charge. There will need to be compromise and understanding on both their parts for this to work. Eilian is so unhappy no doubt his arrival will signal the end of the peace and quiet of his new patrol they will wonder what hit them and how is Thranduil managing now his last chick has flown?

Antigone_Q · 3 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

Ah-ha! Legolas misses his family! I thought he would. And he and Beliond still aren't seeing each other's better characteristics - sigh. Beliond surely can't be enjoying his assignment much. Well, they are bound to see their respective good sides once they have to start working with each other: Legolas usually does show good sense eventually. Eilian on the other hand...maybe he needs a few more runes to get him back to his old self. Shoo, shadow!

Nilmandra · 2 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

Part of me is just laughing at Legolas - he has never been shadowed before! I can tell Beliond has a past, and I hope he and Legolas will come to not only work together but like each other. Perhaps in doing so he will come to terms with whatever makes him seek to be away from people. And poor Eilian - still so sad. I think I should go to him. I love Maltanaur - and I am so tickled that Eilian was moved by the gesture Maltanaur made.

Orophins Dottir · 2 December 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Drat! Thought I would read one of faithful reviewer's stories and reciprocate and already you have me snared. What can the poor Scribe do but backtrack and read some of your older works to get the background? Ah, well, 'tis a tough, dirty job but I shall gather my elven hordes and attend to it! I like this. The interaction among the large (and as yet to me somewhat bewildering) cast is marvelous. I particularly like Thranduil. Poor loving, if misunderstood, Thranduil! "And that was it. He was now a warrior of the Woodland Realm." Such an innocent start for one of the Nine Walkers. I always think of the Woodland Realm as somewhat like Sparta, so this fits into my mindset that they would not make a big fuss however significant the rite of passage. One wonders what the Imladrian crowd would make of their ceremony! On to the next chapter! Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil

meckinock · 2 December 2003 · Chapter 2: Arrivals

Loved the parallel arcs of first day on the job through the eyes of the new rookie and the new captain. Poor Legolas, just like a recent high school graduate, he seems frustrated at finding himself on the bottom rung all over again. But he's handling it very well so far...and dear Eilian - I loved your observation that he didn't mind young warriors - just the idea of being posted in an assignment presumed safe enough for them! How long can it be before his mounting unhappiness, boredom and need for stimulation drive him to recklessness?

Brenda G. · 1 December 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Wow! Another story, and so soon upon the heels of your last one! "Warrior" has all the earmarkings of a great tale, and I am looking forward to its unfolding with much enthusiasm. So Legolas is now an official warrior. Now begins the road that will eventually lead him in the years to come to Helm's Deep and Pelennor Fields with companions other than his own Elven kin. It will be very interesting to see how his dreams of glory are tempered by the stark realities of life and death in the realm of Shadow. No wonder Thranduil hovered over him right up until the last moment before departure. No wonder that Thranduil placed Beliond at Legolas' side to protect him. I know that Beliond and Legolas have started off on the wrong foot, and both are misbehaving at this point, but when push comes to shove in the middle of a battle, I'm wagering all difference will disappear in the effort to keep one another alive. Nothing like getting down to what's really important to put squabbles on the shelf where they belong. Maybe Legolas will wind up "saving" Beliond. That *might* give the Dagorlad veteran some pause before he tries to again cut down his young charge with that blade he calls a tongue. That might, indeed, be a very interesting scenario. I'm concerned about Eilian, but I know that the Shadow still weighs upon him. His attitude about Celuwen is sad but predictable. This "who needs her" slant will probably last for all of about two seconds in her actual presence. Love hurts, Eilian. Even the very best kind. Eilian won't be the last person to try to drown his sorrows in a bottle or find comfort for what ails him in the arms of another. Low tides pass, however, and Eilian will rise again! I know this much about Thranduil's middle son - when he finally, truly gives his heart away, it will be forever. "Weeping endureth for the night, but joy cometh in the morning." Hang on, dear Eilian. Morning is on her way! Daw, you are a marvel - almost as much as your stories. How you managed to cook turkey and begin a new story at almost the same time is beyond my comprehension. But I like it! Another helping, please? (And I don't mean leftovers...)

Lera · 1 December 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Hey!!! A new story! I'm so happy! I'm glad you picked up right where you left off so we could see the cerimony. I loved seeing Legolas's excitement at finally becoming a warrior. Goodness! Beliond and Legolas are sure setting themselves up for some good times. While Legolas isn't spoiled, he is used to being protected and sort of sheltered, so I wonder if he'll have trouble being around people who don't see him as a son or younger brother. He won't get much sympathy from Beliond! Eilien! What are you doing? He's trying to avoid quiet moments? It sounds like maybe he needs some quiet time(in the corner!) to sort himself out. Actually, I feel sorry for him. He's trying to numb the pain thru wild play. It actually sounds like Thranduil's being sort of understanding of this behavior, he hasn't completely chewed Eilien out. And while Eilien is an adult, Thranduil still has the power to confine him to his chambers or something. Maybe Thranduil knows what Eilien's going thru. Ok, thank you for the new story. I hope this review made sense, the tv is blaring far too close to my computer!

kalile · 1 December 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

I was struck by your opening scene with Legolas fingering the wear on one of the sides of his protection rune, caused no doubt, by Eilian wearing it for so long...It seems fitting that Legolas should have it. It must have some kind of magic if it managed to keep Eilian safe for so long. I was saddened by Legolas shift in thinking of Ithilden as his brother to his troop commander and Thranduil from his adar to his king. It was consistent with the sadness Thranduil felt in giving Legolas a sword as a coming of age gift. What a horrible time to live in. And (sigh) I miss Annael already. Perhaps Legolas would have found Beliond easier to bear with his friend by his side...but then again, I guess that would defeat the whole person of going away. Update soon. I'm entering "dead week" and could use a pick-me-up.

meckinock · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

I have a tendency to want to sympathize with Beliond - he fought at Dagorlad, for Eru's sake, and now he finds himself chief baby-sitter to the King's pup (a thankless job if there ever was one) - but that last crack of his to Legolas was certainly uncalled for! I don't blame the poor kid for trying to figure out how he had managed to offend. This situation promises to be endlessly entertaining. And what's with up with Eilian's behavior? I'll take your word for it that the healers have that Shadow issue under control, but maybe their methods are too subtle - it sure seems as if he could still use an attitude adjustment!

Nilmandra · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

I enjoyed seeing Legolas' thoughts at this important occasion in his life. He is entering adulthood, leaving friends and family and going off with his patrol. No matter how much training, it has to be a shock. I look forward to seeing him and Beliond together! My enthusiasm for Legolas was dampered with sadness for Eilian. He is obviously still down and sad. I am glad Thranduil replaced his rune, and especially glad it lightened Eilian's heart. Poor Thranduil - both sons leaving the same day! I am glad Sinnarn will be around for a good long while.

ANA · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Yes! A new story! Loved your warrior ceremony, and in so few word, you managed to convey the feelings of each involved. Very touching! It will be very interesting to see the interplay between Legolas and his body guard/shadow. He's been so protected by his family that it might do him good to deal with someone who will not coddle him as much. I definately see fireworks between the two of them before they settle into a routine, if they ever do. Will we see Legolas in action soon? I get the feeling that the excitement of becoming a warrior will soon turn into a harsh reality check for the new warrior.

jebb · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Wonderful that there was a new story so soon and so sad for Thranduil and Ithilden that both Elilian and Legolas are now going away from their protection. I don't hink Legolas really understands what he has given up and what he has pledged yet? No doubt there are many misunderstandings and misplaced episodes of pride before he comes to realise what his minder is there for great writing and characterisation these people exist they do not live on a page or just on celluloid

Marnie · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Interesting start :) Eilian's an intreguing character - lots more going on there than meets the eye, I reckon. I hope the feeling of foreboding I'm getting around him is not *too* justified ;)

Arbelethiel · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

A new story! :) I don’t know how you can write so quickly, but I’m very grateful. I liked the pledging ceremony very much, especially when Thranduil let his “father mode” take over for a minute :D He doubted very much if he would have to behave himself for long. *thud* Let me retrieve my jaw from the floor... I won’t comment on that, no, no, no. I have done a difficult thing this day, letting Legolas go without protest. Indeed :D Eilian seems to be in slightly better spirits. I hope that the northern Patrol will do him good. And it will certainly prevent him from acting stupidly :\ Thanks for this chapter, ~Arbelethiel

Dot · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Yay, another story! I was beginning to resent Thanksgiving a little because it meant that all of us outside America had to wait a little bit longer for updates – but here you are to brighten up my Sunday morning!! I’m so glad you continued exactly from where the last story ended so that we were allowed to experience the ceremony. I loved the little details you included, like where people were standing and their reactions as well as the new warriors’ thoughts. I had to smile at Legolas, who still can’t quite believe that he’s now a warrior of the Woodland Realm! Thranduil as king and not father must have been a little unsettling for Legolas – to look into the face of one he loves and suddenly not be able to read him at all. Still, he is pledging his faith to his king and people, and I suppose it was probably the easiest way for poor Thranduil to get through that moment as well. I absolutely loved the subtle gestures then of Thranduil squeezing his son’s shoulder and Ithilden touching his face to show their pride and love. And Legolas seems to realise that it’s difficult for them too, which he didn’t really appear to think about up until now. Poor Elowen! How hard that must be for her. The Home Guard may be considered the safest posting but that didn’t save her husband... O.k, I’m losing my patience with Beliond already! “And I am sure the realm looks forward to having you at its service”. What?! So maybe Legolas could have been a bit nicer to him, but really, there was no need for sarcasm – even if it was quite funny! I’m going to sit back and let you take Beliond to where you need to take him. I’ll just, um, sit here quietly and wait for him to redeem himself... Eilian’s going already? He must have bribed that healer. Maybe it’s what he needs, though, instead of brooding at home. “I just want him to treat me with respect,” Legolas muttered. Hmm, I think that works both ways, Legolas... *gasp* What’s Eilian doing?? Alright, don’t answer that – I can see what he’s doing! I’ve changed my mind – get him away from home and up north as quickly as possible! The scene between Annael and Legolas was lovely – it’s so sad that the two friends will be parted. I’m trying desperately to put the rest of your stories out of my head, ‘cos I know Legolas serves in the southern patrol for a while but eventually ends up captaining the Home Guard (I could be wrong, though!) but the more I see how the situation works the more I wonder what brings Legolas home in the end.... I know, just concentrate on this story... You don’t know how glad I am that Thranduil gave Eilian a new rune of protection! And they parted on good terms, which always makes me a little happier! I know this is about Legolas in his new role as warrior – but you won’t forget about Thranduil, will you...?!;)

Eokat · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Have just read this and enjoyed it immensely, I have had to go back and read your previous ones to get up to date. it is nice to read a legolas fic without it being all girlie.

Aly · 29 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

Yay! A new story. Sniffle... our Legolas is all grown up and a warrior now. Ok, so maybe not ALL grown up. hehe. I can't wait to see the interaction between Legolas and Beliond! I can already tell it's going to be fiesty between those two. *grins* I really liked that Thranduil gave Eilian a new rune of protection... that he wouldn't let him leave with out one. It helped to show how much he loves his son. Hopefully the Northern patrol will help Eilian to heal.

naneth · 29 November 2003 · Chapter 1: New Beginnings

I am so excited to see that you have started a new story-what a delight! I am so excited to see where the first patrol will take Legolas. May Eilian never stop calling Legolas brat. It's the job of older sibilings to embarass their younger sibiling, and he does it so well. Legolas still has the "prickliness" of youth. How irritating for Beliond! Hope he learns to listen to Beliond soon. Oh, but that just might be the point of this story, huh? I'm glad you solved the problem of Eilian and the missing rune before he left. Your family dynamics are always a joy to read, from Thranduil's pain at his youngest going into danger to his pain for his middle son's return to danger. Can't wait to read more!