Reviews (406)

LKK · 24 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

I apologize for not getting a prompt review for the last chapter's post. Real life got in the way. But I was happy to see Thranduil react favorably to Legolas's mission. I want to thank you ever so much for letting us see Beliond's encounter with Thranduil. I was afraid that might not happen since most of the story has been through Eilian's or Legolas's eyes. It was a wonderfully amusing scene; I'm so grateful you gave it to us. How typical of dutiful Legolas to assume that he had missed Eilian and Celuwen's ceremony when he discovered they had bonded. Honor-bound Legolas couldn't possibly imagine that they had bonded without a formal ceremony. Although why he would think that they would have the ceremony without his attendence is beyond me. (I don't remember which chapter this came from, so apply it to the appropriate one, please.) Thranduil is coming closer to understanding Eilian, but he isn't quite there yet. He doesn't seem to realize that there is *no* punishment that can make Eilian more cautious. If Thranduil succeeds in finding such a punishment, he will lose his son -- in the very essence of what makes Eilian Eilian if not physically. It was that carefree essence that pulled Thranduil to his wife; I hope he will come to recognize that same attraction in his son. And soon. Is Celuwen going to find herself appointed to an ambassadorship to Anyr's settlement??? That might a good thing for her to do with herself, plus it would help Thranduil keep an eye on that wayward settlement. Good work on the last 2 chapters, daw! (I apologize if I mispelled any of your characters' names. This is the first review I've written where I didn't go back and check up on the spellings.)

rgbj · 24 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Well now we see hints of Legolas' and his family's loss again. This is definitely a recurring theme in his life. He was always #1 with Eilian and now he feels he has lost that but he will always be #1 baby brother brat, forever. But he will love Celuwen for Eilian's sake. Legolas will learn that your heart cna expand to love so many people. You can just add and add and never run out of room. I know Legolas likes Alfirin but since Ithilden was so much older Legolas didn't feel any sense of loss. Eilian was certainy different and definitely is loved in a much more encompassing way. Ithilden loves Alfirin very much but they are in love in a much more mature way. Quieter and more stable. Not words I associate with Eilian. That was sweet when Legolas offered Celuwen his arm. He is such a gentleman, gentle-elf? Yes she is frail but I have no doubt that she will revive considerably with Eilian's love. I do wonder how he can go back to the South Patrol and leave her behind knowing her physical condition though. OOH YOUR family is so complicated. Girl you have no idea what you have just gotten yourself into. If you had spent that year getting to know these elves you wouldn't be adrift right now. These elves are the poster family for complicated. Celuwen wondering why the king is being so hard on Eilian and then commenting on his many good points. And he does have many. Legolas agrees. I agree also. I have always wondered why Thranduil was so hard on Eilian. He is such a hard worker and fights to do the best he can. The fact that he may have adult ADHD for an elf is not his fault. It is genetics. Now you are opening up a new can of worms as far as Thranduil is concerned. After all these decades, centuries (?) he is beginning to understand his own feelings. Nana's loss again. I see a difference now between Celuwen and Alfirin again. I don't think Alfirin would have insisted on buying Ithilden's ring on her own if she had too. Here is Celuwen's independent streak again. Go her. I liked Legolas' comment that if he tried to kick Eilian in the shins now he would end up on his back in the dirt. Guaranteed. Galivion and Thranduil agree that Legolas did a good job in his novice foray into diplomacy. The king is going to bust his buttons again. OOH Smackdown time for Tinar again. Couldn't happen to a better elf. I though Thranduil's assessment of his sons was right onthe mark. Not much gets past him. OH Oh Here comes Beliond. Despite the kings weariness he holds his own until he realizes that Beliond is truly attached to the "impudent cub." Now where have we heard the word impudence used about Legolas before. Grin. So in the face off Thranduil blinks first. How much can one elf take in one day. Sometimes it is best to fight only the important battles. After all Beliond was chosen to be loyal to Legolas, so he can't be faulted for that loyalty. Back to Eilian for the king. Like a hamster on an exercise wheel. He never gets away from that. He needs to realize that things are not going to change unless Eilian wants them too. Maybe not even then. We may be dealing with genetics here. I think his bonding will slowly change him but he will still be his mother's son no matter what Thranduil does. I do like making Eilian wait for the other shoe to drop. The king does use all the not inconsiderable skills at his disposal. The king is impressed by Celuwen. I think he can find a way to keep her busy as soon as she is physically able. She would make a good liaison with the settlements and hard core wood elves. After all the royal family isn't any better then the ones they swear to protect, in fact they have a very tough job and need all the help they can get. I think Solith and Celuwen need to understand the scope of what is involved here. Maybe she will be surprised at the depth of service needed. That was always something I didn't get in her and Solith's dismissal of Eilian and family and the service they provide. Yeah Alfirin, today was a hard day just like when Eilian comes home. This was of course a little more exciting than usual. Ithilden and his very romantic comment. The Valar has dropped so much happiness in Eilian's lap. Alfirin could agree but from Celuwen's POV. Very sweet. Well that was very nice. Isn't it great to watch this family grow, mature and gain over the centuries? I just love your stories. FarFlung

Bodkin · 24 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

PS: Have you ever thought of writing a tale of youngish Thranduil and his wife in their early years together? I would love to see him being driven mad by the reckless impulsiveness of someone he can't tell to get on her knees or condemn to uncomfortable penalties. Also - I think Eilian has himself done something that will 'check his tendency to rashness' - it's called Celuwen!

rgbj · 24 April 2004 · Chapter 12: Home Again

I have given up for now on ff.net. I have tried to review five times so far on chapter twelve and no go with each one of them so far. I am a little obssessive/compulsive about my reviews being in order but even I know a losing situation when I am in one. OK. I hope this makes sense after retyping it so many times. I think Beliond was very wise to give the little interview a miss right now. The king has had about all he can take for one day. Legolas' report was very concise and careful. He told as much as he needed to but didn't want to get in too deep considering he knows that the king is upset. I liked Gavilion telling him he is a "natural". It is nice that you have made each one of the sons with their own abilities. And you have done this over a period of time without losing track. That is very admirable. Now another lovely scene with Celuwen and Eilian. Legolas' shock, confusion and then he realizes that they are bonded. Then he feels the stab of loneliness and has a fleeting thought of the maiden. He is the only lonely bachelor in the family now. He is so sweet to the newly bonded couple though. After all he cannot remember a time when they were not in love. He remembers that feast when he wanted Celuwen to go away and only wanted Nana to come and dance with him. He is mature enough to handle those feelings and memories now at least. I remember how the king used to get after Legolas when he was an elfling and he was late to eat, then when he became a novice the king eased up a little. Now that Legolas is a warrior he gets a break. Letting go a bit at a time. Tomorrow we take our daughter to check out her school for next year. Sigh. Bit by bit. Lunch was being very tense until Celuwen comes up with a real tension breaker. OOH Legolas fell off his horse. He will never hear the end of this. And for elves that is forever. At least the tension was broken and things got a lot less tense. I also liked the comment about Ithilden's appetite being as always, good. Now we come to the public acknowledgement of the bonding by a ceremony. Celuwen has to come to grips with her new life. A royal life. Not one of quiet dedication to the forest by a wood elf but part of the family that defends this realm with all they can give. This newly bonded couple is not just ordinary one. She will have a lot of lessons to learn in the future of how this is going to affect not only her, but her parents and children. These two have a rough row to hoe in the future. I loved how she got dizzy just thinking about having their own private space to cozily be together. Then she remembers that much of the time she will be alone. But they will be together in spirit. Alfirin wants to take good care of Celuwen and I thought that was sweet. She is going to need it. Another lovely chapter.

Dot · 23 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

I just knew I’d have missed a chapter. I had to go to Dublin for two days (to be conferred with my Masters degree – go me!!) and I was dying to find out what happened next so I checked my e-mail for an alert the second I got to work, printed it out instead of waiting ‘til I got home and was trying to read it behind the desk in a packed library before having to handwrite a review on the back of the printed sheets – but I figured, what the hell, people can stamp their own books, I wanted to know what happened… I really do love conversation chapters, and this one was great – especially because the conversations were largely between people we rarely get to see in much communication. The opening paragraph actually made me feel a little guilty for not realising how Eilian’s marriage would affect Legolas. Obviously I knew that Eilian and Legolas were exceptionally close but I’d never thought about how Eilian held Legolas “most dear”. It must have been wonderful for Legolas to know this and of course it will hurt that Eilian has given more room in his heart to Celuwen – even though Legolas is an adult and clearly wishes his brother happiness, I can see how he has to experience some sense of loss. Still, at least he has enough self-awareness to realise how he feels and separate these feelings from his desire to see his brother happy. Lovely image, by the way, of Eilian reading to Legolas and encouraging his baby brother to read as well. Another tantalising glimpse into their past! For some reason I really liked the fact that Legolas offered Celuwen his arm! Such a gentleman. Um, elf. He still doesn’t know that she was fading. I suppose there’s no real reason for him to know… “I know Eilian can be provoking, but he has sacrificed a great deal in the service of the realm, and it hurts him when your adar does not seem to value him.” Ah, she’s very perceptive. I mean, I doubt Eilian has told her *everything*. Although, having said that, Thranduil usually makes it clear that he does value Eilian as a warrior – at least in recent times – but it’s Eilian’s behaviour in his personal life that he objects to. “Adar would certainly allow you to take a suitable ring from his storeroom.” I’d like to see that storeroom… Thranduil seems to be quite cooperative about the agreement Legolas and Galivion made with the settlers. He had every right to be quite nasty with them so it’s nice to see that he respects Legolas’ decision. I had to laugh at Galivion’s little rant about Tinar. It’s quite endearing how indignant he is that Legolas wasn’t treated with respect – he must have grown quite fond of “Lord Legolas”. Thranduil’s thoughts about his sons in reaction to this were interesting. I thought his analysis of Legolas, in particular, was spot on and I could see both the Legolas of the Fellowship and the Legolas we’ve got to know in your stories. I don’t know if Eilian would agree that his position was “a slightly easier one” but Thranduil’s assessment pretty much sums him up. I felt bad for Ithilden. “His oldest son had had a hard time even having simple friendships.” It kind of sounds like Ithilden was hurt a few times by people’s attitudes and maybe that’s some of the reason why he seems withdrawn and reserved when not acting with all the authority that comes with his position. I wonder who he’s really like. I mean, Eilian is clearly like Lorellin and Legolas seems to share traits of both parents but while I can see some of both in Ithilden, it just struck me that Thranduil would have been an only child too but I just don’t get the impression that he would have been quite as serious growing up. Maybe Ithilden gets his personality from a grandparent. Hmmn, I wonder what Thranduil’s mother was like…;) I LOVE Beliond!! It’s absolutely hilarious the way he lets slip about the thieves and poor Thranduil is left there gaping like an idiot. Beliond has such a great way with Thranduil. I suppose if he’s known him all this time it’d be quite difficult to be formal… “There is more of you in him than I had thought.” Is there a story there?? And he calls Legolas an “impudent cub” to Thranduil!! I’m glad Thranduil was able to see that Beliond was genuinely frightened. He should be proud of his choice of keeper for his youngest son. “From what I have heard since we got home, I gather that you are displeased with Eilian” LOL! It seems like the whole realm is far more interested in Thranduil’s reaction than in what Eilian actually did. But then, so was I…;) That paragraph about Lorellin was heart breaking. It’s just so unspeakably sad to see Thranduil’s pain and sorrow that linger even after all this time. It seems to be something of a breakthrough for him to realize that his problems with Eilian stem from his own fear. Still, his wife’s “foolish bravery” didn’t kill her, Orcs did. She didn’t necessarily make a worse choice than anyone does at any particular time. If she had waited for the warriors Ithilden sent then she might have been safe – equally, there might have been more elves dead, or she might have been the only one to be killed. Thranduil can’t presume that Eilian will make a tragic choice some day. Thranduil himself could go off horse riding in a state of anger some day – as is his wont – and he could have an accident. Well, Legolas fell off his horse! Eilian knows he has to be more careful than when he was younger. If things were easier between him and Thranduil, maybe resentment wouldn’t cloud his judgment. But I guess after this long their relationship problems aren’t going to be solved overnight. Eilian kind of has already acknowledged the problems he created but I suppose I can’t argue with Thranduil wanting to reprimand him for any disrespect he has shown as son of the king…! “Thranduil’s face was thoughtful as he eyed his new daughter-in-law.” Ah, methinks Thranduil has just realized that Celuwen’s knowledge of the settlements and their inhabitants could be pretty valuable. Instead of using her and possibly causing more problems between himself and Eilian, couldn’t she be given some sort of advisory role in relation to the problems in the settlements? She might prefer that than what Alfirin does. I really liked the scene between Ithilden and Alfirin. I’m glad Alfirin can be so honest with Ithilden and he completely accepts that she isn’t happy with the situation. Yeah, he might indeed have problems – but Eilian probably just assumes that he’s going back to the South as soon as he is able to (how’s his hip, by the way?!) so I don’t see that there would be a problem unless Ithilden or Thranduil object? “I thought, Ah, my brother! You do not know what happiness the Valar have seen fit to drop in your arms.” That’s so lovely! I love that he’s so blissfully happy in his marriage. He may think he’s lucky but I’m telling you, Alfirin is the luckiest elf in all Arda…:)

The Karenator · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

I've cooled down considerably from my 'settlers' rant so I'll try to behave myself. Legolas and Celuwen seem to be off to a good start despite the fact that he's a bit jealous. It's funny how we as grownups sometimes know there is no reason to feel slighted but still do. At least he recognized his feelings were non-productive and redirected his thoughts to his happiness for his brother. It was interesting how Celuwen called Legolas's family, 'your family' instead of ours. I suppose adjustments just don't happen over night. It does take some time to see things in a diferent light, not to mention that Thranduil had been less than pleased at the news. I don't see how she could not feel uncomfortable and just as responsible as Eilian for this marriage. I keep saying this, but she was! Everyone is so ready to blame Eilian. Tell them for me to get over it! The elleth was a willing participant. Oh shoot! There I go again. Beliond! What can I say? It's starting to look like we're two peas in a pod. Yes, please. I would like to speak to Thranduil, too. I was glad to see Thranduil taking out a minute from his steaming to think about what it was about Eilian that caused them to butt heads so often. Now that he has a little insight, perhaps he can sit down and just explain all this to Eilian. That might be more effective than swatting the kid like a pesky fly. I'm dangerously close again to ranting so I'm going to another topic. One thing we have to give the good king is that his mind is always working. He's beginning to see some potential in his new daughter. All the more reason for him to work things out with 'her husband'. I liked the little bedchamber scene with Ithilden and Alfirin. She did express her displeasure for how this marriage went down, but I have to admit that when the Ranger suggested a little fireside chat, my mind immediately went to the row I could see them having. Obviously, they are not like Beliond and me. Well, if the king sends Celuwen off on diplomatic missions, maybe she won't step on Alfirin's toes, and they can get along without having to arm wrestle. I don't care if it's two men or two women who are placed at essentially the same level in the hierarchy, they are bound to bump into each other on occasion. Beliond and I are watching with great interest. Good show, your minstrelness. I've got to go now before I get all upset again. Carry on, Karen

meckinock · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Legolas is really displaying the openness and adaptability that will serve him later as a member of the Fellowship. He is really going out of his way to make nice with Celuwen and it's nice to see the two of them hitting it off. She needs an ally in the palace (besides her lightning-rod husband!) I think Ithilden should stay out of Legolas's leadership struggles, though. Legolas handled himself splendidly and decisively with Tinar, and if Ithilden hauls the arrogant little whelp in for a dressing down now I think it would actually undermine Legolas's position by implying that he went whining to his big brother, when in reality he could and did stand on his own two feet. I loved Beliond barging in on Thranduil and casually giving him a piece of his mind. The King really does need one person who doesn't have to walk on eggshells around him. It's good to see that he's doing some hard thinking about Eilian. He was justified in his anger at Eilian's impulsivity, but it was high time he examined the deeper issues underlying their constant friction instead of just butting heads like two moose in a meadow all the time. Alfirin is holding up under the stress pretty well, even though her world is a little shaken up. Ithilden is lucky he has her - especially considering she gives scalp rubs! Great, great, story, Daw.

Fadesintothewest · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Go Beliond! I love the way he interrupts Thranduil and has no consideration for his position. Thranduil definitely needs him around. It was so sweet for Legolas to walk Celuwen to her destination at the smiths. Legolas is so chivalrous and thoughtful, ahhh our little Legolas. I could just imagine Thranduil's brain working a mile a minute as he heard Celuwen speak. The king/ diplomat/ tactician in him realized at that moment, if not before, that Celuwne is going to be an asset he did not expect, and ease more pain than Celuwen's and Eilian's bonding caused. I love seeing strong female characters written well- go Celuwen. We hesitate to write OFC for the fear of MS branding but none of that here. I look forward to watching Celuwen kick butt!

Antigone Q · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Oh, and forgot to say: lovely little bedtime scene between Alfirin and Ithilian. It was very sweet to see what they were thinking and how much they enjoy each other.

Antigone Q · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Celuwen is very wise. I hope she'll be a bridge not only between the settlers and the king, but between the king and Eilian, too. I get the feeling Thranduil has a certain amount of respect for her, which would help. I'm glad Thranduil was proud of his youngest; Legolas worked so hard and did so well for his father. Do we get to see Tinar firmly put in his place for the way he acted on the trip? The Beliond scene was just what I was hoping for. Thranduil is usually so intimidating and it's funny to see someone who isn't cowed by him at all. It's good to see Thranduil taking a good hard look at his relationship with his son. I think he needs to. I know he loves Eilian, but despite being very perceptive in general Thranduil doesn't always have a good feel for people who think differently than he does. And I'm getting my vote in early for the little Elflings to come: I think Eilian and Celuwen should have a girl first. I'm sure she'd wrap her father and grandfather around her little finger very effectively. Besides, you already have lots of boys around...

erunyauve · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Beliond certainly deserves a medal for bravery in taking on the King when everyone knows he is not in the best of moods. Of course, the trouble is that Thranduil can castigate his middle son until he is blue in the face, but it will not change Eilian. It's part of his nature to be impatient and impulsive. However, his experience in the south has curbed his recklessness somewhat, I think. The dangers there are real and he doesn't have a death wish - he doesn't need to be reckless in order to have excitement. It comes with the job. Moreover, his position as captain forces him to consider the well-being of others. He would not lead others into situations that he might chance were he alone. That was an interesting bit about the brothers in relation to others. I think you're right - Legolas does seem a bit reserved. The Fellowship obviously comes to mean a lot to him, since he delays his departure from ME until all but Gimli are dead, but he doesn't say much.

lwarren · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

What a great story! I haven't reviewed before because of some stupidity and computer ignorance on my part, but I surely will from now on! This is one story I watch for daily for updates, and I've never, ever been disappointed. I have grown to love these characters through all their experiences in not only this story, but your others as well. The family dynamics of the King and his children are so well presented! You just do a wonderful job in telling their many stories, and this one is no exception! Elian is certainly giving his father a fit, but Celuwen seems to be just the level-headed influence he needs. Now if Thranduil can just see past the disobedience of his son to the asset his new daughter can become! Great stuff! Can't wait for more!

Tapetum Lucidum · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

A book? Our wild young warrior is going to read a book? He has changed a lot hasn't he? What nice manners! It is the same courtesy he offered to Gandalf as the walked into Medulseld. I enjoyed their little bonding session. It was good to clear the air completely and give Legolas a chance to let Celuwen know he was truly happy for her and his brother. The idea of her buying a personal ring for Eilian was a good one. I think it would mean a lot more to him. Maybe he needs another Rune of Protection?... Hooray for Galivion mentioning the problems with Tinar! Someone needed to be told and Ithilden is the right one for disciplining the obnoxious elf. Tinar is a lot of fun to read about, I'm just glad he doesn't work for me. Beliond and Maltanaur are probably the only two individuals in the realm that can get away with talking to Thranduil that way. I think Beliond did an excellent job of making his point extremely clear. Who wouldn't grow fond of the impudent cub? Thranduil truly loves his son, even if Legolas and Celuwen both think he does not give him enough credit. Thranduil's job his hard enough without the rash warrior stirring things up even more. I don't think Legolas ever realized just how hard it was to be a diplomat before his "little mission." Maybe Eilian needs to go on a few of these to be taught the importance of harmony in the realm. I think he might lose his patience - even if Tinar is not there. It is hard to believe that men could sneak into an elvish settlement. Celuwen's response was very accurate. Thranduil is starting to realize that Celuwen could definitely be an asset when it comes to dealing with all of these settlements. She has an "outsider's perspective." I believe I suggested it 2-3 chapters ago... when you hinted at it then (grin!). Your interlude with Ithilden and Alfirin was a good way to end the chapter. I am glad there is another one coming!

Tapetum Lucidum · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 12: Home Again

My boss and my husband went out of town at the same time, leaving me in charge of everything at work and at home. It was not very nice. Don't they know I have a lot of reading to keep up with? Where are their priorities? Legolas is wise to get this over with quickly. There is no point in dreading it all day. Beliond is lucky to escape this little discussion but I am sure he will start one of his own soon enough. Galivion belongs at the prince's side for his report. Your little young guard/older guard interaction was cute. I guess all races have to learn discretion with age. Thranduil's reaction to Legolas' report was a very realistic one. Initial anger over the supplies - just like his son - then a realization that the final compromise was a good one. The trading problem was a case of "Don't shoot the messenger," luckily Thranduil realized that his youngest handled it well. Complements from Thranduil and Galivion in one meeting?! His head must be spinning. The young Lord did do a great job. I loved the wash of emotions that ran through Legolas' pretty little head after running into Eilian and Celuwen. You did well to have his final reaction one of joy and have him share it with his brother. It is hard not to think of their marriage as losing a brother instead of gaining a sister. He had been Eilian's primary focus for a long time and now things have definitely changed. Legolas' arrival at lunch certainly improved the mood. His response to Celuwen was a good way to break the tension. Apparently she is blissfully unaware of how merciless they can be when tormenting each other. Good thing she didn't mention that she tried to get him to ride Pilin naked through the forest. It would have given them even more fuel for the fire. Alfirin must have been scandalized over the whole thing. She has always been a proper elf. It is going to be very hard for Celuwen to move into the limelight of the kingdom. It must be how Orlando felt after Fellowship was released. Suddenly someone much more important with a lot more responsibility. Planning a wedding is stressful under the best of circumstances. Poor Celuwen is already overwhelmed and ill. I hope the feast goes well for her!

Elentari · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

*fangirls you* this was amazing. very touching, And i really loved Celuwen buying her own ring for Eilian - she does not need Thrandy's riches! she got off well enough without! And Thranduil's reflections on his errant child was absolutely superb. not to mention I laughed myself silly with his confrontation with Beliond. Go beliond! hah!

naneth · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Legolas is my kind of guy-there's nothing so wonderful as pulling out a wonderful book from your childhood or youth and enjoying it all over again. I do have to settle for reading in my swing under the trees rather than climbing into a tree to read. Beliond is a truly priceless character! "There is more of you in him than I thought" was such a great line as was calling Legolas an impudent cub. Yes, I admit to being a member of the Beliond Fan Club. From a very careful distance, of course. I'm really looking forward to Ithilden's meeting with Tinar next chapter. Go Ithilden!

caz - baz · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

that last bits really sweet. i don't think i like Alfirin very much, she wouldn't be my choice of friend, but her and Ithilden suit each other very well.

Jebb · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

What a lovely chapter Legolas getting on a better footing with Celuwyn and promising not to throw a tantrum! Galivion once again praising the kings son and getting one in about Tinar I am so glad Ithilden is going to be dealing with him and Beliond who obviously doesn't care whose toes he steps on as long as he can do his job properly his advice on Eilian made me smile and Thranduil think so we see more of his thoughts and fears for his son and the reasons behind it. Poor Adar Legolas teasing Thranduil over his minder and of course Thrnaduil immediately responding about the thieves shakes head at Legolas when eill he learn that Ada is not to be trifled with? Except by Beliond of course And the wonderful ending sheer bliss My only complaint you mention this story reaching its end how could you! many thanks for tour wonderful writing

Bodkin · 22 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Please give up the day job and spend all your time detailing the lives of Thranduil and his family. You make them all so interesting that I want to know about every single one. I think Legolas learned to cope with Beliond very well - I bet it took Eilian longer to deal with Maltanaur. Legolas accepts his presence with tolerant good humour and seems to care for Beliond as much as the other way round. Thranduil is a politician, isn't he? His sub-conscious is always looking to see how he can turn any event to his advantage, and even his family aren't safe from his machinations. I'd say: don't stop! But instead, I'll implore: finish this story and start another one straight away!

Rose Sared · 21 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

I just had to tell you how much I have enjoyed these stories of yours over the last week. I have sat up until the small hours, only to get up at the crack of dawn to read on. Children, relatives and housework have all had to cope while I had the great good fortune to follow this saga from when Leggy was a wee lad to now ( and beyond, I cheated and read the Rivendell one!) I love your OC's including your take on Thranduil, thanks for a wonderful holiday (my family etc would not agree) and please keep up the good work. Bravo take a bow Rose

Nilmandra · 21 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

I must say I like introspective Thranduil. I think Eilian marrying may change everyone in the family - and although a little painful, it will be good for all of them. Thranduil needs to understand his son a little better, because we know Lorellin was right. Eilian will please when he feels valued. Nice scenes showing Celuwen's strengths and why Eilian loves her; and also Ithilden and Alfirin - clearly being married has been good for him!

Estel_Mi_Olor · 21 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Ha, ha, cheers Ithilden! That was fantastic. Ithilden and Alifrin seem to be one of the happiest married couples I've...heard about? I'm glad Thranduil didn't overeact about the thieves. Beliond was adorable-he seemed like a mother hen. But his concern was very touching. The moment bewteen Legolas and Celuwen was also touching, and I'm glad that they have accepted each other. I hope that Thranduil and Eilian will be reconciled in the next chapter, and I can't wait to read about the celebrations! Keep writing! (Sorry for the short review, but I am in a terrible rush.)

French Pony · 21 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Ha! Beliond was great! Only Beliond could tell off Thranduil like that and get away with it! Every monarch needs some bossy underling to put him in his rightful place. Is Beliond older than Thranduil? Every time he pulls a scene like that, I imagine that he is ending half his sentences with "you hear me, boy?" Brings a tear to me eye. Just like I act when I am in the middle of a police action at work. And Celuwen is such a charmer. She's a good match for Eilian, and she definitely knows the score with him, making sure he has that little band of gold posthaste. The marriage of Eilian and Celuwen will be the cause of wacky hijinks for centuries to come. And she's so thoughtful in her dealings with Legolas. I think she knows that she's just ousted him from his place, and she's quite gracious in making up for it. But Legolas is going to have to grow up sometime, I suppose, though I never got the impression that he had quite finished doing so by the War of the Rings. I think Thranduil has just hit on the perfect punishment for Eilian. Make him wait. Just have him cool his heels for a few days, occasionally favoring him with that "special" smile. Eilian will shred himself to bits, and Thranduil will have to raise no more than the occasional eyebrow. Psychological punishment is so much fun. And it will also give Thranduil some time to deal with his own feelings about his late wife. This can't be easy for him, and I'm sure he knows that he needs a few days to calm down and sort himself out before he can sort anyone else out. Identifying what one is feeling is often the hardest step in dealing with it, and I think Thranduil has made a large personal leap in identifying that he associates Eilian with Lorellin. He now needs to assimilate that, and so a few days of keeping Eilian on tenterhooks will be good for everyone.

tigerlily713 · 21 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

Great chapter! It is good that Thranduil had a chance to think things over before speaking to Eilian. Two sides can't often communicate when both are on the defense. Anyway, I eagerly await more! I am so glad I stumbled upon your writing one morning many, many months ago! Lily

Manderly · 21 April 2004 · Chapter 13: Family Matters

What a lovely chapter! Again, there was a bit of everything. You just present the characters so well that the reader can easily laugh or sympathize with each and every one. But I must admit that Beliond was my favourite in this character. What a lovable old bear! Even Thranduil stands humbled before him, but it must also be very reassuring for the king to know that his son will always be well looked after, and for a parent, that is always so gratifying. Celuwen is certainly intelligent and Thranduil should really consider making her an advisor in some capacity. And there's Legolas, trying to come to terms that perhaps he may no longer be the most important person in his brother's life and still making an effort to ensure his brother's happiness by befriending the very person who now replaces him in Eilian's life. Though I really doubt that Eilian would love him any less just because he now has a wife. The two brothers will always be close and Legolas may realize that Eilian can be a friend now as well as an older brother who had always looked after him. Looking forward to the feast!