Reviews (406)

Fadesintothewest · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Yes! Eilian and Celuwen together and she was fading! I do believe it was because her love, her dearest Eilian was away from her, not responding to her letters. Her father must feel like the biggest fool, causing in part I believe, his own daughter's misery. Ai such is the delicate balance with raising children is it not? But love, love, that aching Eilian and Celuwen feel for each other, I can understand that, and that aching that goes with love is so much more than just the physical, so beautiful how you portrayed their thirst for each other. I could just feel it!

Portia · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Well, it's good that Legolas realizes that Thranduil isn't taking away his leave for the fun of it. It's good that Thranduil explained the delicacy of the situation to him. I never thought of the conflict with the settlers as a Sindarin vs. Silvan matter--that's very interesting! It's certainly logical that there might have been tension on that point, what with Thranduil's caves and all. And it's so nice to see Eilian/Celuwen. Though I am *furious* at Solith, especially if Celuwen was really wasting away from grief! I want to see Celuwen give him a piece of her mind. Celuwen is getting the better deal in the matter of fathers-in-law, and that's saying a lot considering how difficult Thranduil is.

esamen · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

What a terrific romance! I don't know how you're going to pull this one off! Talk about star-crossed lovers! And poor Legolas . . . I hope he can stand the strain. You write so well! I just love this story! Can't wait for the next chapter! Thanks!

Elena Tiriel · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Oh, Daw, this is fabulous! I was delighted to hear the contents of Celuwen's letter -- you finally gave Eilian some hope! His encounter with Celuwen's family at the settlement is great -- you can almost cut the tension with a knife (but only an Elven long-knife). Solith is controlling, possessive and manipulative... Celuwen's mother sounds like a very practical sort, but afraid of crossing Solith. (I wonder if he is as controlling of his family as he appears? They seem to feel that they have to walk on eggs around him... a power-mad, emotionally abusive father does that to families.) It was such a shock to me (not to mention Eilian) to realize that Celuwen is fading. I hope that it can be reversed by being with Eilian. (Although, knowing you, I am sure it will be a long, hard, anxious struggle before they get betrothed, much less bonded... And you may string it out so long that it doesn't even happen in this story. Or the next. Or the one after that. You just can't resist torturing your reade... er, I mean Eilian, can you?) Although I was so happy for the optimistic note at the end: "And with a laugh of pure joy, she turned and ran back into the cottage". That sounds like someone has forgotten to fade, even if just for a few minutes/hours/days... (And I don't mean to ignore all your other wonderful characters and story lines. Last story, my heart was with Legolas... this story, it's with Eilian...) Thank you for sharing your wonderful talents (and characters) with us, Daw! - Barbara P.S. I hope Eilian brought the stack of returned letters with him, to show them to Celuwen... and I hope she slaps her father silly (metaphorically speaking, of course) when she realizes that he intercepted them. Her father's behavior makes him not deserving of her trust and respect.

dr_seuss_is_cool · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

hi! i've read all your stories...just never had the time to review and i wanted to say that i love them i love how you've created your characters...they rock and i am very worried about Celuwen...i would cry if she died i am glad that Thranduil is placing all this trust with Legolas...i think he will do well anyways...thank you for writing...it is very awesome thanks again!

rikwen · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Poor Legolas. He comes home to recover from being on the Southern Patrol and then goes right back out on a mission of mercy. Being of the royal family doesn't mean one gets the cushie jobs either. (Thinking of Legolas going to Rivendell to explain why Gollum escaped the woodland elves). Thank goodness his mother was Silvan, 'cause I think Legolas is going to be sorely tested by the settlement elves. Somehow I can hear you thinking *Wet and cold is Legolas' world*. Double poor Eilian. So near to Celuwen and yet so far. Will we hear why she has been fading? And how did she get a letter past her father? Solith certainly wasn't expecting this visit. It was rather funny how Celuwen's mother just reached around her husband for those rabbits. She sounds very practical and maybe she will help out the two love birds. I don't think Eilian is going to go home with less than an engagement and a future wedding in his future. I can almost feel sorry for him as Eilian will have to overcome the reluctance of Solith and make some major concessions in his life in order to even get Celuwen to agree to marry him. The Southern Patrol is *NOT* the place for a new husband. I love the description of the settlement and Celuwen's home that you give. They sound very practical and plain, almost Quaker or Shaker in their being. Nothing grand or flowery. I can see one nice long story here or even two because you have got to tell how Celuwen makes it past the cultural shock when she goes to meet the rest of the royal family in the caverns of Thranduil.

sheraiah · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

daw, I just love Eilian! Celuwen's father, however, has got to be the densest elf I've ever encountered. His daughter seems to be fading and he still won't get a clue! Sheesh! Great story, hon! I'm looking forward to the rest of it.

meckinock · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 3: Diplomacy

Daw! That wasn't sizzle, that was what happens on the Weber when you give it a good squirt of lighter fluid. I think my eyebrows are singed...

Antigone Q · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

I was so excited to see the letter Celuwen wrote - thank you, Daw, for sharing. I won't tell Eilian you let us see. ;-) It's sad that Thranduil's children have to bear so much because of their responsibilities children of the leader in the community (and thus, leaders in their own right) but I'm sure Legolas will do fine with the task he's been given. He's matured a lot over the years. Eilian is going to do himself a mischief if he doesn't slow down a little. I'm guessing he's not going to be happy with the outcome of pushing himself too much - but then, I can see where the concequences of his choices might also be...interesting.

LKK · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

sigh If Eilian inherited any of his mother's never-ending patience, he's going to need it when he goes to visit Celuwen and her family. Unfortunately, this chapter does not bode well for Eilian's ability to hold his temper. He's understandably angry that his letters were never delivered to Celuwen. But he needs to be very cautious at how he handles the situation. Caution and Eilian are words seldom used in the same sentence without a negation between them. :-( Poor Legolas. I wish Thranduil didn't have to send him on the diplomatic mission. He *needs* some down time. I hope the months of living under the Shadow doesn't adversely affect Legolas' first diplomatic mission. I think he'll do well, even still. Of the three sons, Legolas seems to be the one who gets along with the most people. Looking forward to the two journeys! LKK

Tapetum Lucidum · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Legolas' enjoyment of the forest around him was very touching. It must be very depressing in the south. It is amazing that Eilian is so resistant to it. He must be stronger than we think. Legolas must be completely absorbed to not notice his brohter's distress. It was all he could think about for a couple of scary days, it is nice to see him so relaxed. I think he knows exactly what Eilian has planned and is all for helping his closest brother. Thranduil's "little talk" with Eilian was good. He wants to see his son happy but not at the expense of the realm. It must be hard for all of them to have to lead a life not of their own choosing. I am looking forward to the happy couple's greeting and Eilian and her Adar's "discussion." It will be hard for him to hold back his anger. Annael's daughter? Did I overlook that somewhere? I am glad the young couple is doing well. If I remember correctly, Annael was a woodcraft master so it is logical that his daughter would be a forester. I like how your Legolas makes visiting his old friends a priority. It is hard to keep in touch, especially when your interests change. It is hard for single friends to have a lot in common with new parents. Ok, the councils are kind of boring. I guess it is time for Legolas to test his diplomatic skills. I think he will do well - he is very thoughtful. The only problem I can forsee is that he is honest and expects other representatives to be the same way. That is often not the case. Thranduil is hurting over this one. Nothing better happen to his youngest or his guilt will be unbearable. Not to mention that Beliond is going to be mad that his charge didn't get the proper amount of rest! I for one would not want to face his wrath. Great start! Looking forward to the rest!

Tapetum Lucidum · 19 March 2004 · Chapter 1: Home

A new story! And I get 2 chapters at once?! Must be my lucky day! I'm glad you picked this one up just after Sacrifice Under Shadow. It was a big time of change for the two brothers. Beliond does a great job looking out for my favorite elf. If he ever needs another babysitting job, let me know. It is appropriate that he spend his off time away from his charge - even though he cares for Legolas, it is still a little too much like work. You always make Legolas' greeting of Eilian a joyous occasion. I am glad you continued it in this one. Their playful banter is always a good way to lighten a story. His greeting with his father was equally warm. I grinned at Thrandul's hovering over Eilian. Legolas must love it as well. I keep forgetting Sinnarn is grown and half expected him to throw himself in his uncle's arms. Dinner was a lot of fun. I think all parents end up giving most of their meals to their kids. Eating all of my food from my own plate is a distant, fond mememory. Ha! You showed us the letter after all! I had a feeling we might find out what was in it eventually. It was very well written, tentative and sincere. Eilian must be mad at Celuwen's father - What did he tell her about the prince? Eilian's joy at being unable to return to his patrol was very ironic. He is the king of the battleground but has finally found something more interesting. I look forward to seeing those charms at work!

Any · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Another very, very well written chapter! :) Thranduil's reaction to Eilian's plans to ask Celuwen to wed him is wise, although I must admit that I feel sorry for Eilian. I mean, the poor boy has been waiting for so long for Celuwen to finally "give in" and allow him to see her again and now his father sort of accuses him of being selfish and thoughtless and scolds him like a little elfling. Thranduil's harsh words must have hurt Eilian. Obviously his father doesn't trust him to be mature and responsible enough to handle the situation wisely. On the other hand Thranduil is right of course; Eilian tends to act thoughtlessly and impulsively at times and until now he wasn't really too eager to make certain sacrifices for his beloved. Still I think Thranduil should trust Eilian and especially Celuwen more. I mean, hey, Celuwen wrote a letter to Eilian and said she'd rather have him and miss him when he's away than not have him at all! So it is not only within Eilian's responsibility to sort things out properly. It will be interesting to see how Legolas will react to the news that he'll have to go to the settlement instead of "hanging around" at home and resting. Considering what a caring and reliable person he is he'll surely take on this responsibility without hesitation, won't he? :) I simply can't imagine him arguing over this with his father when he's needed for his people's sake. If he'd refused to go, somehow it wouldn't be very Legolas. Mhmmm.... *rubs chin, musing*... well, I'm eager to find out what you'll let him do :) Of course, I'm also eager to find out what will happen between Eilian and Celuwen when they finally meet again. Hopefully Celuwen's father won't ruin everything! *gnaws fingernails in anticipation* *argh* ~Any

Estel_Mi_Olor · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Oh, how sad! Poor Thranduil! Poor Legolas! Poor everybody! I mean, what a terrible situation. Legolas was so content, so cute! I suppose this visit will be beneficial to him though, for as a kings son, he needs some experience in diplomacy. As I diplomats daughter, I should know. Legolas will succeed, I believe. His treatment of Eilian, and his walking in the rain, shows his brotherly concern, and that was very touching. Eilian is so cute, but can he not use his maturity? He cannot bond with Celuwen, and as Thranduil said, leave her alone while he's in the South. Celuwen is sensible and she'll bring him to his senses. Legolas's visit to Annael was also touching. I do not remember if you had said previously, or if I forgot, that Annael had a daughter. The meeting with the advisor's was also very well done. I had not realized how dire the situation really was. How will they manage? Starvation scared me.... Can't wait to see how Thranduil will approach Legolas, and how Legolas will react to his new mission. An Eilian-Celuwen moment is also expected. Keep writing and update soon!

Dot · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Great chapter. Where do I even start? I really like the reminders of how different this part of the forest is from the south, and how Legolas wonders at the simplest comforts after the months spent there – it not only shows how deep the shadow has grown but serves to remind us of the way that Thranduil’s warriors must live and how these dark times force the elves to leave behind trees, nature, light – everything that make the elves who they are. I thought Legolas’ sheer delight on the horse ride was a joy to see but really showed how hard life has been when we see how special these simple things are to him now. *Tsk* Eilian pretending not to be in pain can really only lead to problems… It proves, though, that he realises how strong a sense of duty Legolas has that he won’t even confide in his baby brother. I liked that Legolas knows all isn’t well with Eilian, though and rather than press the matter he just ensures that they walk rather than run, even if it means getting wet. I loved the scene with Thranduil and his sons. It was so lovely to see how touched he was by Eilian asking him to read the letter. He’s obviously thought about the situation between Eilian and Celuwen; he seems to have a clear understanding of exactly what their union could mean. I’m guessing Thranduil, much as he seems to like Celuwen, isn’t too enamoured by Sólith. I’d love to see Eilian and Celuwen bond but I just cannot imagine the two families getting along. Both fathers are just far too stubborn! I’m glad Legolas was honest with his father. More or less honest, anyway. Although, I suspect that if anything does happen to Eilian he’d be feeling fairly guilty. “It used to amaze him that his notoriously impatient father managed to survive them, but he had gradually come to appreciate the considerable amount of wily diplomacy that Thranduil exercised at these gatherings.” I LOVE this picture of Thranduil! I’m beginning to think I just have a thing for powerful elves. I mean, out of the three sons Ithilden is definitely my favourite…;) Annael’s daughter is grown up!! But maybe, some day, you might let us see her as an elfling…?? It was wonderful to see Annael, though, especially as their friendship doesn’t seem to have lessened at all. That scene with the advisors was quite frightening. What a bleak picture of life in Mirkwood after that harsh winter. Of course, Thranduil would never abandon the settlers, even if it means he and his people will be a little hungrier. What an awful position for him to be in. As well as that, he seems to be really struggling with the idea of his sons doing their duty. I suppose he has seen what their duty has done to them and really doesn’t want to push them any more while at the same time knowing that he has to. Poor Legolas. I wonder what’s in store for him. Not much rest anyway, I’d imagine! And you’re splitting up Legolas and Eilian again! *glares at daw* Like I said, this was a great chapter. It’s startled me a bit to realise that they really are grown up and life in Mirkwood has become such a matter of survival for all of them in so many ways. You’ve done an amazing job in not just developing their characters but their world as well. You really are a genius. You do know, that, don’t you?

tigerlily713 · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Another wonderful chapter! The mixture of politics and human interest in your stories is very well done. I eagerly await more! Lily

French Pony · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

"He must do this because of who he is," pretty much sums up the theme of this chapter. Being a prince is certainly not all fun and games. This royal family really seems to see itself as the ultimate public servant, and you have to respect them for that. Thranduil for President! Eilian is at the most frustrating stage of healing, the almost-but-not-quite-all-better stage. I really hate that part of getting better. I deal with it by avoiding sports injuries and doctors like the plague. Eilian deals with it by becoming insufferable. We all have our ways. Somehow, I think that this is not entirely the most opportune moment for a proposal. Hey, Eilian can't really get down on one knee in a romantically suave way. He is in no shape to be proposing yet. Or maybe Celuwen will propose. She's healthy enough to get down on one knee. Annael and His Ladies o' Love are welcoming and warm as always. It is good to see him put in an appearance. And I did like the discussion of the flooding and the ruined food supplies and the attendant emergency aid the settlement would need. As I think you know, I've always figured that food would be a problem for the Mirkwood Elves, and it's good to specify what they eat, what supplies they keep around, where they store it, and like that. It makes their lives so much more real. I'm going to stop with this subject now, because otherwise I'll end up quoting a review that you gave me once, and then it would just go back and forth in this unhealthy little circle. As for Al Capone -- my grandmother's uncle was one of the most prominent Chicago pimps of the 1920s, but his business got taken over by Capone. He worked for Capone for a while (arranging the getaway cars for the St. Valentine's Day Massacre, among other things), but then got sick of him, and betrayed him to the cops. Capone got wind of it, called him into his office, produced the letter and said, "Only you could have done this to me. You're through!" Uncle Pimp's body was found a month later. Ever since then, our family saying has been "You're through!" in a Chicago accent. Must go. Work calls.

Jay of Lasgalen · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

I'm sorry I missed the first chapter, Daw. This is a great story as always - the contrast between the tenseness of the last story and Legolas's peaceful homecoming is very well described. Poor Eilian really was ill - Thranduil must tear his hair out over his sons! Although it means Legolas misses out on his leave, I like to see Thranduil giving him the responsibility of this mission - I think he would be a good diplomat, and very good at using 'precise phrasing'! But why do I think that something is going to go wrong? Jay

caz - baz · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Interesting turn of events no doubt he'll be meeting up with Eilian while visiting the settlements. are weather is much the same as what they've been having just slightly warmer. Long winter, more snow than usual, long time below freezing and now rain, rain, sun, rain and next month it's April so we'll have the customary April Showers to look forward too - for me it's the worst month you go out riding and it's nice and sunny not a cloud in the sky then you find yourself hiding under a hedge trying to shield yourself from the downpoor. last year i ended up getting stuck in 3 different places on a ride that should have only taken me about an hour. 1 small thing: why are they hunting at this time of year? at the end of winter birds are making their nests and other animals are impregnating one another i mean yeah sure kill the rabbits off they have offspring in dozens every month after they come back in season but the others wont be able to reproduce that's why shooting and hunting finishes before the spring else the foxes and birds wouldn't be able to breed so we have even more to hunt and kill when it comes round next season and shooting finishes in February so that the birds have plenty of time to make their nest's i'd have thought that elves would now better than to start hunting at this time unless they had them in controlled breeding areas. well its just stopped rainning and the suns come out so i'm going to take this chance to put on my rain mac and go out for a ride. Katie will be pleased she not been out in a while.

Kay · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

I think perhaps the only way Eilian will be able to make himself acceptable to Solith and what's-her-name will be to join the Home Guard or, at the least, a border patrol. I'm not too sure he would be willing to do that. I guess it will come down to where his greatest love lies. Celuwen's devotion is certainly evident by what she wrote to him, but Eilian's words to his father were revealing, and not in a good way. Now I wonder what trouble will find vacationing Legolas this time! Thanks, daw!

The Karenator · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

I sure am glad you cleared up that Legolas and Eilian are going to different settlements. My whole review was going to be based on how angry I was at all of them! Now mind you, I'm still miffed at Solith. He's such a jerk. If this bonding business comes about, then I think Thranduil needs to have a prayer meeting with the old goat. I know I'm prejudice, but Eilian is getting a bad rap, and Thranduil's not making it any easier. Of course, I'm not sure that Thranduil realizes it at this point. Are the elves of Solith's settlement deaf, dumb and blind? When are they going to wake up and smell the Darwinion? Solith cannot separate his personal feelings from what is best for his people and certainly not from what is best for his daughter. He's so deluded. Well, you certainly got my blood pumping this morning. Personally, I see this a sign of a well written story. You elicited emotion out of your readers! Namely me. grumble...grumble... Poor Legolas. His opportunity to sleep in a real bed was short lived. He'll survive, and I suppose it could be looked on as an honor that his father trusts him enough to send him to the settlers. Of course, I imagine he would rather be honored after he had a little more time to relax. Good chapter, daw. I look forward to seeing what happens. Give my love to Belowen. Tell him I underestand completely how hard it is to be healer to a houseful of irritating males. Karen

Jebb · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Oh I just knew there was too much happiness to last I had such high hopes for Eilian too. Still Thrnaduil seems to know what he is doing so I will have to rely on his good judgement I just hope Eilina will as well and Legolas just home and now seeing how his responsibilities to the realm are increasing I loved the way the normal everyday things he had missed while in the south gave him such pleasure and how Adar noticed it too

mistry89 · 18 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Hard times indeed, both physically for everyone, and mentally for Legolas. A big responsibility laid on him. Obviously Thranduil has noted his maturing. Hopefully the elves in the settlement will realise that they are truly being given all that can be spared .... Thank you.

Lera · 17 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

I'm so excited about this story. I can just tell it's going to be fun. Good night, Eilien! I'm not sure about that wound. But no matter. He's going to see Celuwen. Can we call her Celly? Thranduil was wise to send Eilien out of the room while quesioning Legolas. Legolas was already being put on the spot, and it was easier to say what he had to say without Eilien present. Everything Thranduil said made perfect sense to me. I also wanted to ask Eilien, "Did you hear anything he just said?!" Oh, Eilien. But it's ok, because his troublesome quirks make an exciting story. That settlement! But Thranduil really does care for them. The advisors' concern for the children was touching. I liked hearing Thranduil be greatful for Ithilden's presence. He's lucky to have Ithilden. The whole realm is lucky to have Ithilden. And here's a little glimpse into the future: Legolas sent to give bad news but to show the king's sorry and does care. I'd like to see the scene where Thrandul decides to send Legolas to Imladris to share Gollum's escape. yuck. I noticed even though Eilien's conveniently going to that settlement, Thranduil didn't decide to send his condolences through him. Ah, well, Eilien had probably already left. I was happy to see Annael. I was wondering how he was doing. With a grown daughter! That's so strange! They're really old. I mean the last time we saw Annael he was throwing snowballs with Legolas. Annael's really following in the family footsteps. I can't help but be a little worried at this. I think it's Annael who needs a keeper, just to ensure he stays around to see his grandchildren. Ok, thank you as always for the update. Can't wait to read more. God bless and good night.

erunyauve · 17 March 2004 · Chapter 2: Trouble in the Settlements

Boy, did Eilian put his little brother on the spot or what? And I have to agree with Thranduil - somehow, I can't see Celuwen sitting around the palace, waiting for Eilian to come home. It's good to see Annael again. And I forgot to mention how interesting it was in Eilian's memories of the past to see that Annael has followed so closely in his father's footsteps. It will be interesting to see how both sons deal with the diplomatic part of their visits. Eilian's temper is shorter, and he does have a genuine gripe about Celuwen's father. But Legolas can be proud - he could get a little touchy if the settlement believes that the food shortage is due to a lack of concern on the King's part.