Reviews (167)

LOTRFaith · 17 February 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers in Arms

Thanks Daw;-) I love how you can bring me to the edge of my seat, then wham... (shakes head:-) But, am worried about Beliond, Legolas and Eilian... I really doubt that Thranduil or Ithilden will be at all happy with the occuring incidents... Suddenly glad my Ada is nothing like Thranduil.... lol:-) Namaarie~

Jay of Lasgalen · 17 February 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers in Arms

Ai, poor Eilian! (I pronounce it as 'eye-lee-ann' BTW) Both keepers have been sent back to camp, and Legolas and Eilian are alone with the orcs after them, with Eilian badly wounded and poisoned. Eeek! I can just imagine the reaction in the elf camp when they realise both sons of Thranduil are missing! But if Legolas can look after his brother and get them both to safety, Eilian will surely not be able to doubt his little brother's skills again. Please, please, update soon! I have to know what happens! Jay

tigerlily713 · 17 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

Great chapter! I love the flashbacks! ~Lily

Lera · 16 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

I'm very sad. No story updates today. *sniff* Ok, seriously I have a question. Considering the outstanding quality of your work, I doubt you've ever gotten a negative review. But if you did, how would you react? Would it be crushing? I'm asking because authors are always saying "Please R&R, praise and criticism welcome." Well, I've given a couple of reviews lately that were more constructive(I thought) criticism, than overflowing with praise. It was always my honest oppinion. Is this what authors really want? Or would they rather the reader just not review at all? I have never written anything so I wouldn't know. Ok, your thoughts on this would be appreciated. Thanx:-)

Karri · 15 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

It would seem, astonishing though it sounds, that Eilian's behavior as actually improved with age. That's good. Poor Belond.....'valet'. Well, I suppose as long as Legolas doesn't escape him again, he probably won't mind terribly. As for Celuwen...don't like her. Eilian deserves better. *crosses fingers hoping Eilian finds a girl that better for him*

Estel_Mi_Olor · 15 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

That's also cute; Celuwen was concerned for Eilian. And she should be too. Leaping across rivers and such. Hmph. I am trying to pyscho analyze your story and figure out how you made Eilian and Ithilden. They were just names, yet through each fic you gave them a personality. Hmm... That's the rough outline of how you did it. But there's more, isn't there? And no I am not crazy...Hee. The title of your fic hints at impending danger and sacrifice (obiviously) for Legolas, I wonder? Hmm...keep writing!

Estel_Mi_Olor · 15 February 2004 · Chapter 1: The Southern Patrol

Finally! I was wondering if Legolas would ever join the Southern Patrol. That's so cute; he misses his brother's protection. He has finally grown up now, hans't he? It doesn't matter what age you are if you are not treated accordingly. Legolas is experiencing new treatment from Eilian. Great fic, as always. Keep writing.

naneth · 15 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

I don't blame Legolas for wanting to stay under those blankets and avoid the cold. My electric blanket is my best friend when it's cold, but surely makes it hard to get up on cold mornings. To make myself get up I just keep repeating, "you *have* to go to school today, you're the principal!". Gelmir still has a keen wit and is very comfortable treating Legolas as if he were a younger sibiling. Poor Beliond gets stuck with lots of unflattering nicknames! Legolas has always enjoyed stories from his family. Wonder if that's due to his being the youngest? Can't wait to read more!

Lera · 15 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

Happy Valentines Day! I don't like the cold and I have a warm house to be in. I also really love camping, but not in the winter. My dad used to climb mountains and one night during a blizzard he and his companions built a snow cave. However he decided he was more afraid of the snow cave than the blizzard, so he bedded down in his sleeping bag. During the night the snow cave collapsed on the guys in it, so my Dad and one other guy had to dig them out. Not to say that you're putting our favorite elves in danger. But I wouldn't want to sleep in a snow cave. You wanted to see elf extreme sports? I think you wrote one into the story. It was really weird seeing an elf, especially Eilien not taking warrior training seriously. I'm used to Legolas and Ithiliden. I wonder what Ithilden and Eilien's relationship was like back then? Oh, and I didn't know Siondel was Eilien's age! It was good to see him again. *sniffle*

Tapetum Lucidum · 15 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

Brrrr.. It is sleeting outside and the snow den description did not help me warm up at all. Body heat? Do you need any volunteers? Beliond is very wise, for a valet. LOL! He would love that nickname almost as much as naneth. Eilian was wild as an elfling. Poor Thranduil! I thought Legolas and Annael were bad. The middle son would age an immortal. Eilian was truly clueless about women. Good at flirting but he had no idea how much he upset poor Celuwen. Apparently she was just one of the guys at the time. Bad, bad idea. I am enjoying Legolas' discovery of his older, favorite brother.

The Karenator · 15 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

I just saw your note regarding the pronunciation of 'Eilian'...ay-lee-ahn...hm.m.m. 'alien'. Not that Thranduil didn't already know this. I got cold just reading about sleeping in a snow den and I don't blame Legolas one bit for wanting to stay in his blankets. That would just plain be tough going. It was interesting to try and picture the Greenwood as Eilian knew it as a novice. He must have been living the life of Huckleberry Finn only to have it interrupted by giant spiders and dark lords. Such a loss of freedom...which I think would make Eilian even more restless than he was by nature. He strikes me as the sort who bucks the system at every chance, one who delights in pushing his limits and one who would rather take the punishment than admit defeat. I'm fairly familiar with the type...I have several living at my house. The 'air-alien' scene was a riot, but as a mother, it did make my heart skip a beat. Poor Eilian, he just doesn't get it at all. He's so busy having fun, he misses most of what is really going on around him. What a flirt! He's lucky, I suppose, that Celuwen hasn't launched him off a tree limb yet...into thin air. It was nice to see Siondel..sniff... One of the most interesting points you brought up was what would Eilian have done if he had not been a warrior. I think he would have made a good gynecologist. Good show, Daw. I look forward to the next chapter. Karen

Jebb · 15 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

Good we are going to find out a little more about Eilian and his life before he became a responsible captain. I wonder whether Thranduil is still to be convinced over his level of responsibility! It was great to see the differences in the way he trained compared to Legolas Which is worse to lose the peace having tasted it like Eilian or for Legolas who has only known the shadow? And bungie jumping in Mirkwood only Eilian!

Justafan · 14 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

What a lovely Valentine's treat! I really liked Clueless!Eilian and the insight into his reckless childhood. Thanks for posting this.

Legolas4me · 14 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

Ah yes, Eilian is definatley the most rowdy of the three. I think this is where he and Thranduil's relationship gets rocky. Eilian is so independant but reckless at times and Thranduil is very protective of his children. They are all he has. I can not help but like Eilian, though I think he is a bit of a 'ladies man'! LOL. Anyway loved the chapter and I can not wait until you update. The stroy is developing so well. I am anxious to see Legolas and Eilian's relationship tested in the Southern Patrol and I am wondering if there will be a new developemnt between Eilian and Celuwen (especially after her father's rude outburst that made me hopping mad!). :-)

erunyauve · 14 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

Incidentally, I don't think there's anything wrong with portraying the elves as feeling the cold. There are plenty of examples of elves feeling cold in Tolkien's apocryphal works. I think the difference on Caradhras is that the story is told from a hobbit's point of view, and as he could walk on top of the snow, Legolas certainly wouldn't have felt as cold as his companions with their wet feet. Obviously, Annael's talent for tracking comes from his father. It's almost a shame for him to be in the Home Guard, though that is best for his family. I love the idea of going back to Eilian's teen years. Even if Legolas does not quite expect it, I can imagine that he must have been quite entertaining. Had he and Legolas been closer in age, I can see him leading his little brother into all sorts of mischief.

sofia · 14 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

Im glad we got to hear some of Eilian's story. He really was care free in his youth.

Jay of Lasgalen · 14 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

Daw, I apologise for not reviewing this before! Despite pressure of work, I have been trying to keep up to date with my favourite writers, both to keep me sane, and because I know I will never catch up otherwise. But luxuries like reviewing have had to go. I always love to see a new story from you, and I like this - poor Legolas in the thick of it, affected by shadow already! His family have finally realised just how good he is, but it must have been hard, especially for Thranduil, who now has two sons in such grave danger. I look forward to lots of angst and action ahead! Jay

Dot · 14 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

Great chapter, daw. Quickie review, I'm afraid, or I'd have to leave it until tomorrow... I loved the opening – poor Legolas trying to force himself to get up and brave the freezing cold. I think we can all empathise with that – I’m so bad at getting up out of bed in the morning. “You are a warrior of the Woodland Realm and a son of its king, he told himself. Get up!” That just really struck me as hilarious…! I wonder what Beliond would have to say about being called a “valet”? I doubt he’d be too impressed at the thought of having to help Legolas to dress! Siondel? He’s the same age as Eilian? I…never knew that… Even though I probably should have. Hmmn. I suppose being in the Home Guard did give him a chance to settle down and grow up a little when he had the responsibility that comes with being a father and husband. I never thought about it before but if I did I’d probably have thought he was Ithilden’s age or older. You’ve really stopped me in my tracks by adding him in here…! I’m glad we get to see him as a novice, though. He’s so like Annael, isn’t he?? How on earth did you come up with that escapade?! I’m starting to think my childhood was really dull… It’s a really fascinating thought, though – and again I hadn’t really considered it before – that Eilian could have chosen not to become a warrior, that it wasn’t necessary to do so, especially when the Crown Prince would be able to eventually lead the Realm’s forces. If Eilian started off a little reluctant and disinterested, no wonder it took him longer than most to settle down. Poor Lómilad! Do elves get high blood pressure?! Ah. The first sign of problems between Eilian and Celuwen. It seems to me that they’re actually quite typical problems that they are experiencing – Celuwen beginning to realise that she likes Eilian while also disapproving of his behaviour and Eilian completely oblivious to the reasons why his childhood friend is becoming a bit distance – but it’s just dragged out over such a long period of time for elves! I wonder if she had explained her feelings at that time would they have been saved years of turmoil…?! I have to say, though, that I love the glimpse of flirty Eilian;) Legolas seems a bit shocked! It’s not as though he was perfectly well-behaved… Still, I suppose the difference is that Eilian was the instigator and Legolas always the follower, and as Eilian pointed out, Legolas has always been so serious about his training. “He could not help but wonder how his brother had changed from the irresponsible youth he had just described to the formidable warrior and captain he had become.” I thought that was really interesting. I do think that Eilian is a great captain and seems to have grown up a lot recently but I wonder does Legolas still view him less critically than others. He just seems to see his recklessness as being completely in the distant past. Having said that, why should he have to see his brother’s faults when he doesn’t have to? Too many other people do. The fact, though, that Eilian can see so plainly how irresponsible he was and even the reasons behind it show that he is thinking more clearly than before. I actually feel quite proud of him! More young Eilian, please!:)

ANA · 14 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Eilian's Story

What a riot! I can just picture Eilian shooting across the river like an arrow from a bow - something straight out of a Bugs Bunny cartoon. I thought it was a great idea so I guess I would be considered reckless too. Considering Legolas' reaction to the story, I wonder whether some of the hero worshipping of the older brother might be wavering just a bit. Interestingly enough, Legolas' reaction to the story also struck home for me how seriously he takes his warrior role, even at such a young age. Very entertaining chapter. Can't wait for more.

Any · 13 February 2004 · Chapter 1: The Southern Patrol

Hi, just wanted to tell you: I love your stories! I've read them all now (took me two, almost three days, but I just couldn't stop reading!) and I really really love them!!! :))) Most of all I like reading about Legolas' relationship with Eilian. Both of them are such cool guys and they love each other so much (I always had to think of my two sisters while reading, I'm the middle daughter, so I sympathize with Eilian quite a lot, hehe ;)) and I like the fact that Eilian still calls Legolas "brat"! It's so sweet that he stills sees him as his naughty baby brother, hehe :) I also like Legolas calling Beliond "Nana"! You should let him do that more often ;)! (Oh, and please could you make them hug at least once anytime soon? That'd be sooo nice!) Well, so, please update soon! Oh, and please, please, please make Eilian get Celuwen, will ya! Pleeeeeeeaaaaase *puppydogeyes* I so much want to see him happy!!! And I like her. She is a very nice character. She seems the right one for him! I believe that some day even someone like Eilian would sacrifice some important part of his life like his role as Southern Patrols' captain for the sake of love! So, please, let them make up and bond soon. :) And let them have a lot of children, too! :) Thanx! I'm really looking forward ~Any P.S.: I never knew I could beg so much! Haha... :)

Antigone_Q · 13 February 2004 · Chapter 1: The Southern Patrol

How nice to see a new story! And with Eilian, too! This is going to be good, I can tell :) Legolas is finally in the Southern Patrol! I hope he enjoys it as much as he thought he would. I know he goes on to serve in the home guard later, so maybe the Southern Patrol isn't all it's cracked up to be. Meanwhile, I noticed some improvements in Legolas' interactions with Eilian; he seems to have learned a great deal from previous experiences working with his brother. Building a snow cave - oh, ick. I can remember doing that for a survival class. It was not at all fun to dig out (gloves too wet, face too cold) but much warmer than I expected inside and not too bad, except for being a little cramped. I noticed that now that Eilian does not feel that he has to protect Legolas so much anymore, Legolas misses Eilian looking out for him. Ah, well, growing up is a series of trade-offs, I guess. And now Legolas and Beliond seem to be working very well together - very good. I hope Eilian isn't suffering too much from prolonged Shadow-exposure. How long has he been there?

Spirit · 13 February 2004 · Chapter 1: The Southern Patrol

I have been reading your stories right from the beginning and have not reviewed any of them yet. I just don't normally review, for anybody. But something compels me to write this. I have been reading fanfiction for a long time, many different genres and subjects, so I consider myself to be a bit of an expert. Of all the authors I have read your stories are the most memorable and your characters the most endearing. Every night when I get home from work I rush to see if you have updated. I just wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing all of us the chance to read your stories and for the wonder and enchantment it brings into our lives.

The Karenator · 12 February 2004 · Chapter 1: The Southern Patrol

What a nice surprise to find a new story. And it finds Legolas in the southern patrol. I knew this day would come, but I'm with Eilian...I don't have to be happy about it. Certainly, Legolas is ready to tackle such a dangerous assignments and Eru knows, he's been chomping at the bit since he first became a warrior to go south. The opening scenes of the snow were beautifully rendered, but ...so cold! I know the Elves don't get all whiney about the cold like I do, but it must get to them after a while. Back in the First Age when the Elves crossed the Helcaraxe, some of them succumbed to the cold, didn't they? Apparently, they have their limits, too. Mine just comes long before theirs! I still enjoy Beliond and Maltanaur. We've found out a little about Beliond over the last few tales, but not much about Maltanaur. I remember from one the first stories that he had a grandchild, but you've not told us much else. Of course, I'm probably the only person wondering about these things. I must have a thing for the background guy. My husband say I'm the only person he knows who sings the backup lyrics to songs on the radio instead of the main lyrics. If we have any shrinks in resident, maybe they can help me. I also enjoy the interactions of the two 'keepers'when they're together. I suppose they can relate. The relationships of the 'keepers' and their charges are interesting to see, too. Legolas has certainly matured in his with Beliond. And I love that the 'keepers' answer only to the king! Despite what looks like a babysitter job, in reality, they out rank everyone else where their charge is concerned. Go keepers! The battle was good. Even though Legolas gave Eilian a headache, he performed as a experienced warrior. I'm sure it was a relief for Eilian, but he'll never stop worrying to some degree...and that's as it should be. The brat is still...no matter what else he may be...his brother. I look forward to your class completing the next chapter. Give them an 'A' for this one. :>) It was wonderful as always, your minstrelness. Carry on, Karen

Dot · 12 February 2004 · Chapter 1: The Southern Patrol

Ooh, this looks interesting! Legolas in the south, the two brothers working together, perhaps a glimpse into Eilian’s past…. I’m intrigued already! I had to smile at the meeting between Eilian and Legolas. I really like that Eilian greeted Legolas as a brother first, rather than as his captain. Two years must have seemed a fairly long time for them to be apart, even for elves. They have to sleep in the snow? Crikey, you really do think of everything! How did you come up with that?! I have to say, though, the snow-covered forest sounds amazing – it hardly ever snows here, and it never stays on the ground so I’d really love to see proper snow… There’s Gelmir! It’s nice to see familiar faces! Legolas and Beliond seem more comfortable than ever in their relationship. I love the way Beliond automatically searches for a safe place for his charge and gives him the opportunity to spend some time with his brother, while Legolas doesn’t even think to question Beliond’s choice of sleeping-place for him and is shocked that his ‘keeper’ should do his work for him. They play off each other really well, too. LOL! Maltenaur is the same as ever, I see – he really is one of my favourite of your OCs! You know, I’ve probably said it before but I love the way that when you decide that the other characters aren’t really necessary to the story, you still ensure that we don’t miss them too much by slipping in little references to them, like Ithilden letting Eilian know Legolas was coming and Thranduil sending Eilian the gloves. It’s good to know as well that even when they are so isolated they still have little pieces of home touch them now and then. Legolas’ description of how things are at home is quite frightening. There’s a real sense of hardship that I’m unused to in your stories. The difficult times brought about by the harshness of this winter seem to mark the beginning of a new chapter of life in Mirkwood. I really liked Eilian’s speech to Legolas about the Shadow. It shows how good a captain he is, that he knows that warriors who are new to the patrol will need reassurance about what they are experiencing. I guess it’s quite sad, too, that he understands the effect of the Shadow so well and knows how it works. What I particularly enjoyed about this chapter is the interaction between the two brothers. They are clearly delighted to see each other but there’s a definite wariness. Legolas seems to have a completely different attitude this time when he has to serve under Eilian, obviously brought about by experience. He really is determined not to argue with Eilian, isn’t he?! I wonder how long that’ll last… I feel more sorry for Eilian, though. It’s hard enough for him to quash his protective tendencies towards Legolas, but to see him in the most dangerous part of the realm, and under his command, really must be difficult. I thought the ending was so moving. I suppose that while Eilian didn’t want his little brother in a dangerous situation, it must in some way have felt good to be his protector – whether as captain or big brother. Now he realises that Legolas is not only a capable warrior and therefore destined to be in such situation but really doesn’t need him as much. I hope he remembers that his younger brother can still need his comfort and reassurance, if not his protection. Equally, despite his insistence on independence, Legolas must have relied to some extent on the support of his family. Proving his competence and gaining more independence also comes with the loss of something that he always had. I’m dying to see where this goes, how Legolas fares in this patrol and how the brothers get on in such a situation…. Ah, I have that tense feeling that only comes with one of your stories again... We’re back to normal;)

Lera · 12 February 2004 · Chapter 1: The Southern Patrol

Oh, happy day! I was going into withdrawel! I'm glad you're letting us see how Legolas does on his first time in the Southern Patrol. Will it be all he thinks it'll be I wonder? Picky question: you said he's now served in every patrol but the Southern one; has he served in the home guard? I was surprized that they hadn't seen each other in over two years. That's a long time. What a tough thing to be a warrior and not see your family like that. That's pretty sad, but even today I guess it's reality. Still love that Maltanaur. His and Eilien's relationship is so fun to read about. I'm glad he doesn't limit his advice to safety and military advice. Although I suppose treating Legolas like a warrior could be called military advice. But it's kind of more personal. Sweet old, ada Thranduil is still lovably protective. I'm glad. Legolas wasn't sure he believed Eilien about The Shadow Talk being given to all new warriors, but I do. That's kind of a scary thing to have happen, and of course you'd want your warriors to be aware of it. Eilien's a good captain. He can be a brat and be unpredictibly wild, but he's a good captain, who I'd trust. I remember in the last story in one of the reviews you said Amdir and Turgon needed to be free to be wood elves, all tra-la-la, dancing, feasting, stuff, and the shadow needed to be gone, and peace needed to reign for that to happen. Well, I was wondering, Eilien's a very good warrior who seems to thrive on the danger and challenge. What would he do if all peace is restored to Middle Earth? Would he be able to just be a peaceful, calm wood elf? At least he'd finally have a chance with Celuwen. But I'm thinking he'd probably have to take up extreme sports. The battle was fast and well written. Stupid owl. I was surprized to find myself feeling a little sad with Legolas at the end. I guess I finally realized he's an adult and a full-fledged warrior. You've allowed me to see him grow and it really is hard to finally see him as a full grown elf. Feeling a little sad. Ok, on a last note, you're not going to have any "I can't rememer what happened" stuff in this story are you? I adored the last story, but I don't think I can take that kind of suspence again! At least not this soon. Well, thanks for starting a new story. God bless.