Reviews (406)

Elena Tiriel · 17 April 2004 · Chapter 10: Good Neighbors

Wow, Legolas is so good with those children! And the way Talet acted like a big brother to Astiaa is delightful! Rodien has definite priorities, doesn't he? Weapons and war! Legolas did well, trying to redirect his love of weapons to hunting rather than warring... not that it will do any good! Ack, those thieves! How stupid can you get, to bring the pilfered goods from a prior theft back to the scene of the crime? (It was good for the settlers, though.) But the boat does explain how they were so effectively able to disappear as soon as they got to water the first time... Way to go, Legolas! Very effective and clever take-down of the thieves. Good thinking -- that rescuing the meat was higher priority than stopping the fleeing culprits. (Or even rescuing the drowning culprit.) And even feeling slightly guilty for wanting to treat them roughly... I'm glad Beliond showed up, though Legolas did not need him to handle the thieves. Or the settlers. (But he was a great help with Tinar, was he not?) (Legolas: No, Beliond, it's only a scratch. Really! I know I always say that, but it's *really true* this time! Honest!) I'm a little confused by Beliond's comment about the hunters that he waylaid. Why did he think that they were being "deliberately deceptive" about directing him to the Men's settlement, when the Elven settlement is next to it? Is it just because of his prejudice toward Men, or am I missing something else? Good thing Beliond brought waybread, so there was something the children could eat without cooking. Just imagine trying to get Rodien to eat raw carrots, or worse yet, dried ones! When Legolas went back to the Men's village, it was good how he said that Tuilinn needed help and why, but didn't sound like he was overtly criticizing. But I bet that Crydus will never again leave that aspect of security to Anyr, if a similar situation should arise. That little diplomatic dance about mutual assistance instead of "Trade" was well-done. Legolas and Crydus sure picked up fast on Galivion's train of thought. Anyr was, as usual, oblivious (as I would be in such a situation...) Beliond was... pure, unadulterated Beliond. I love that guy! Crydus is great! I liked how he suggested the shared hunting in a way that Anyr would catch on. And Legolas' suggestion of putting the fresh meat in the Elven settlement's flet, and having the Men supply the guards was *extremely* elegant. (Crydus definitely understands his cohort's limitations all too well... very clever fellow.) One of the many things I really enjoy about your story-telling style is all the little details you write that help to make up the big picture. But it was a surprise to find out what so many of those little details were foreshadowing: Tuilinn having gone home. That was very sly of you! Poor Legolas! Well, at least Beliond is there. He's probably sympathetic in his own undemonstrative way.

Bodkin · 17 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

I cannot resist any longer the wish to tell you how much I love your Mirkwood royal family. Lovely stuff.

Dot · 17 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

The long-awaited chapter, and it’s all I’d hoped for and more besides! I tell you, I wouldn’t have liked to be writing this in the face of such demanding readers! What a joy to see Eilian so much in love. I had to laugh at the way he gets so frustrated when he can’t undo her buttons! I cannot believe Ithilden walked in on them! That’s so funny. I’m guessing there’s not too much that would make Ithilden stutter and flush. It struck me as totally hilarious the way he wouldn’t even turn around. I LOVED his reaction, though. He appeared to be thoroughly enjoying the moment once he recovered from the shock. I’m more glad than I can say that he has not only accepted what has happened, but he seems genuinely pleased for them. Maybe, like us, he’s just been waiting for them to get together for sooo long;) “If Ithilden was too cowardly to tell Thranduil what he had found in Eilian’s chamber, then he was anticipating an even stronger reaction from Thranduil than Eilian had been worried about.” Hmmn, I don’t think that’s it – it’s not Ithilden’s place to tell their father, and I rather think he could have been looking forward to a spectacle… “They all turned to him, their faces ready with cheerful welcomes home, and then, abruptly they froze, and he saw knowledge blossoming in their gazes.” LOL! That was brilliant. And I love that Ithilden is just watching the whole thing unfold. That’s interesting, the way Eilian is dismayed that Legolas is not there. Of course, he probably could rely on Legolas but so far no-one but Thranduil seems overly critical. I think that if Legoals were there, he’d be trying just as hard as the others not to say too much in front of Thranduil. How do you manage to keep it all straight? I’d totally forgotten that Eilian didn’t know Legolas was away… “I suppose I should not be surprised, although I had hoped you were at last growing up, Eilian.” *cringe* He says that a lot. If I were Eilian I’d be very hurt to be constantly put down like that. It’s one of the very few things that bother me about Thranduil, probably because in many ways it’s such an empty insult and almost beneath him. Plus, it’s something that Eilian could never argue without actually sounding like a child. I’m glad Thranduil was civil to Celuwen and had the grace to welcome her to the family. Wow, Celuwen has no qualms about standing up for herself! She seems to be well aware of what’s going on but has no time for games. She’s not at all arrogant, though – just practical. No wonder they all like her! “She ladled some into a bowl, started to offer it to Celuwen, and then suddenly looked intently at her”. Ah, Alfirin has seen what the others have not yet. Alfirin seemed troubled by their actions at first but it seems to me that it’s the realisation that Celuwen was fading that marks her acceptance and determination to make Celuwen feel welcome. Of course, she knows exactly what life is like in the king’s household! “Legolas knew his duty and was happy to do it.” Ouch. I could be wrong, but I think Thranduil has been very shaken by what has happened and is grasping at ways to make his anger felt without having properly processed the situation. I’d hate to be the others having to eat porridge amidst all this tension. I have to say, though, daw – I’m still laughing at the way Thranduil maintains (with a straight face too) that Legolas is the epitome of obedience;) Oh, so Celuwen knows Anyr? In fact she seems quite familiar with him. It just dawned on me that she could actually be really valuable to Thranduil. She is familiar with settlement life, knows the people involved and chances are that her father won’t want to make too much trouble for her, and thus for her new family. “He likes her, and he wants the best for you, but you have to refrain from provoking him further.” That sums it up really. It seems wise to just let Thranduil have his rant and keep quiet ‘til it’s over. After all, there’s very little he can actually do. But poor Eilian seems to provoke Thranduil just by his presence at times… The scene in Thranduil’s office was amazing. I was completely enthralled. Thranduil *is* is a quandary. I doubt he’d care over much about gossips but he would definitely be troubled if he felt any of his family showed disrespect to his people. I can see why he’d think this is what Eilian did in a way. You really wrote the scene so cleverly. Both of them have equally valid points of view – I found myself nodding when either of them spoke! – but each is also influenced by high emotion and both by frustration. “Sólith has always been blind to your worth.” Yeah, Thranduil definitely isn’t against the match itself, Eilian just went about it the wrong way in his father’s eyes. Maybe Thranduil feels a little left out too, all politics aside. “Celuwen was fading.” I thought that was so sad. Eilian seems desperate to make himself understood and unfortunately this family have reason to recognise a fading elf. Eilian’s guess at what Thranduil would have done with Celuwen sounds about right! But then, if Eilian was around Thranduil would have no peace ‘til he reached some sort of arrangement… “Explain to me how your mind works, Eilian, because you frustrate and confuse me! You are so like your naneth at times that it frightens me!”I think I stared at the screen for a few minutes to let this moment sink in. Wow. It must be the first time Thranduil has ever voiced these feelings before. It’s quite a sad admission I think for any parent to say they don’t understand their child. I’d say Thranduil rarely experiences incomprehension or confusion, so when these feelings stem from his own child it results in frustration. Thranduil obviously knew that he could see his wife in Eilian and worried about him for this reason but it seems that he never realised before that this could be the root of their problems. A lot of emotions have been stirred up in Thranduil. He’ll be alright, won’t he?? He clearly loves Eilian. Half their problem is that each expects and argument so that’s exactly what happens. “He was what he was.” I thought Eilian’s thoughts were interesting. He clearly sees things in a new light too but I’d tend to agree with his sentiments. All of his traits – good or bad – make him who he is and that can’t change or he wouldn’t be Eilian. In fact, if he were understood a little better and allowed to be himself, he’d probably me generally a much happier elf. Alfirin and Celuwen seem to be getting on well by the end of this chapter. Alfirin needs someone to mother and Celuwen needs a friend so they are lucky to have each other! Anyway, I have to go to work. Great chapter! The emotions and tension were completely believable and totally gripping – and there were some lovely moments to laugh at too:)

Elena Tiriel · 17 April 2004 · Chapter 9: Celuwen's Parents

P.S. About the rabbits: I take back what I said (that 8 rabbits seemed like too many). First, as you pointed out, they were for more than one meal. Secondly, I was thinking plump, juicy rabbits like you would see at a store (think: chicken). It occurred to me that *wild* rabbits caught after a *long, hard, famine-sticken winter* would hardly be more than skin-and-bones! Okay, I admit it: my entire experience with rabbits consists of chocolate Easter bunnies when I was a kid... Sorry! Please forgive my momentary flight of fancy...

Elena Tiriel · 17 April 2004 · Chapter 9: Celuwen's Parents

So, Celuwen is scandalized by the fact that she left her stockings on her wedding night? How cute! (It's amazing what details we notice when we're in a brand-new situation...) Well, the confrontation with Solith wasn't as bad as it could be. I am so pleased to see Celuwen standing up and taking pride in her choice, and Isiwen forcefully knocking some sense into her husband. Way to go, Isiwen! I do now see past Solith's bull-headedness - he *finally* seems to genuinely care about his daughter (in his own churlish way). It doesn't excuse his misconduct (intercepting the letters...), but it somewhat explains it. I'm glad that Eilian is at least beginning to understand how he has asked Celuwen to change her life completely, when his will not change as much. (So he thinks now, anyway...) Solith still had to get the last words in, didn't he? I am glad he and Eilien came to some sort of "understanding" about Eilian not visiting... I suppose that's all the common ground they can expect! Solith still refuses to accept that Eilian truly loves Celuwen, and will protect her any way he can... Celuwen giggles? I am all astonishment! So Eilian's room is a guy kinda place, huh? But he just happens to keep the three stones that she gave him long ago displayed on his desk? Maybe he has the makings of a diplomat inside him yet? ;-D

dr_seuss_is_cool · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

hello! I am very glad that you posted this chapter on a friday. I started my day off by reading the chapter, it made my day so much brighter. Thank you! I am glad that Ithilden is not too mean. That amused me very much when he walked in on Celuwen and Eilian. I love how you've built up your characters. They always have little twists and turns to themselves. I felt very sorry for Eilian when he had to get down on his knees. I would have been very pissed off. I think this whole Eilian and Celuwen situation may work out. I am very happy for them. Well...i am very excited to see what new adventures Legolas has gotten himself into. Thank you very much for writing. Bye bye

Tapetum Lucidum · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

I am glad you split your ending up. It will give us a lot more to read! I liked this chapter a lot. It started and ended on a very happy note. Seeing the newlyweds in bed - head over heels for each other was very sweet. It is a nice quiet time for the couple to be together. Having Ithilden come pounding into the room was hilarious. It does make more sense than having Thranduil wake his son. "I only hope you survive to enjoy your good fortune." was a great Ithilden line. We hardly ever get to see the serious elf's playful side. The should remember that guard. He is very wise. Walking into the dining room must have been harder than facing the evil in the south. It must have taken all of Eilian's courage to walk in the door. Alfirin's reaction was great. I am guessing Sinnarn was on patrol. Legolas' presence must have been greatly missed. He will be sorry he missed all of the excitement. Of course Thranduil's youngest knew his duty - he was born to be a warrior and serve his realm. Celuwen was very lucky to dodge the worst of the King's ire. It was good to have his first words to her be kind words of welcome. He is lucky to have her in the family. She quickly showed her worth with her accurate assessment of Anyr. If only they had been married sooner, maybe Celuwen could have delivered the food. She will make a great politician. I think the princes' spouses are going to get along very well. Eilian's time in Thranduil's office was quite uncomfortable. Putting his son onto his knees is harsh. Appropriate but harsh. I wonder if it would work on my kids... I loved the line "Solith has always been blind to your worth." It was a small statement but it meant the world to Eilian. Thranduil was right - Eilian was hasty and didn't think but what is done is done. He is smart to realize it is time to forgive and move on. The last scene with Celuwen and Eilian made me smile. They will have a lot of fun together though I don't think it will all be smooth sailing from here.

rikwen · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

Another great chapter! I was glad that Eilian and Celuwen did not end up spending their honeymoon in the dungeons, though I would imagine that a suitable punishment for disobeying is still in store for Eilian. I loved a lot of things about this chapter - one that Celuwen is not afraid to stand up for herself and Eilian. And she is knowledgable about the settlements and Aynr in particular. Thranduil may not love the way the marriage came about, but he has a treasure in Celuwen. Can't wait for Legolas to get home with his report of the settlement and their interactions with the humans. Two, I liked where you mixed the king parts and the Ada parts in the discussion between Eilian and Thranduil. Even though he recognizes that what is done has been done, Thranduil is still aware of how it affects the kingdom and his leadership. Even when he is Ada, he is king. Three, the revelation that Thranduil is concerned because Eilian is so impatient like Eilian's naneth. Talk about a true Freudian slip! I am sure that was as much of a surprise to Thranduil as it was to Eilian, though if he was aware of it Thranduil should have realized that Eilian was not going to follow the game plan and get permission and wait a year before he wed. I do hope that everyone gets a chance to calm down and think rationally about this bonding. Eilian may love Celuwen as much as she loves him, but I think he still isn't aware of all the repercussions of what he has done. Ithilden and his wife may turn out to be Eilian's greatest supporters. I can hardly wait for the next chapter. This story is truly a favorite of mine.

Any · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

Now, that was quite unexpected! I honestly thought Thranduil would be so angry, he'd seriously consider to throw Eilian into his palace's dungeons for a while... ;) *LOL* Anyways, while it must have been quite stressfull for Eilian I think Thranduil behaved rather tamely and quite lovingly (is that correct English?), too! I liked that. It would have been way too "easy" to have him freak out or something... so, Daw, very well done, I think! :) "Have elflings?"?!!!???? Aiii!!!! :))) When? How many? Boys or girls?... Okay, I'm getting a bit carried away with it now... They've just bonded, surely they'll need some time for themselves! Hehe... I missed Legolas in this chapter *sniff* ;)) He will be back in the next one, won't he? :) I'd like to say more but I'm too tired to leave a decent and more detailled review. Ah well. You know I love your stuff, don't you? :) ~Any

Estel_Mi_Olor · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

That was sweet! I especially liked the title-so foreboding. Thranduil was far less angry than I thought he would be. I really liked that, the unexpected. Eilian was also surprised, wasn't he? I have come to the conclusion that parents understand more than their children give them credit for, and why not? For they themselves were children too. I did not link (oh dear what did you name her?) Eilian's naneth's death to her impatience. I mean the fact that she died because she did not wait for an escort. So much is made clear now: why Thranduil is always so afraid for Eilian in his recklessness, more so than necessary. Poor Thranduil. Alifrin and Ithilden were marvelous, but as Alifrin herself said, they too were recently newly-weds. Legolas is in for some surprises, and that will make another interesting breakfast scene. Can't wait for the next chapter! Keep writing.

Anonymous · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 9: Celuwen's Parents

best line in all of lotr fan fiction--I will filet you like a fish. I read that a week ago and I have re-read this 100 times and I still love it. I ranks with "on your knees". Poor guy. He's having a rough time.

tigerlily713 · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

Whew! It seems the worst is over from Thranduil. Other may have something to say however. Any pressure on Legolas now that he is the only unbonded of the sons? Great chapter! Lily

Molly · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

Do you use "female" to refer to Celuwen because you think "woman" is not quite appropriate? For some reason it caught my attention in this chapter. It must be a problem sometimes, figuring out what names to use because "man" and "woman" seem to refer to the actual race of Men. At least you didn't use "she-Elf"... I still can't quite forgive Peter for that one. After reading this chapter it occurred to me that it's probably very similar to what happened when Legolas came home after the war. Legolas disobeyed his father's orders just as Eilian did, and brought home an unexpected guest. At least Eilian is presenting his wife, a fellow Elf, to Thranduil, and not a Dwarf who's become his best friend! I wonder which transgression Thranduil would consider the worst. I look forward to seeing Legolas's reaction to all of this.

naneth · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

This was a very entertaining chapter. It's not often that Ithilden gets to be the comic relief! Poor Eilian survived the first round, but I'm sure that the battle isn't completely over. He and Legolas seem to spend far too much time on their knees in their father's presence. I can't imagine Ithilden ever being in need of doing that-at least not in penance. You allowed Thranduil's anger, love, and impatience with Eilian to show through in equal portions. As Thranduil spoke of Eilian's similarities to his mother, so many arguments they have had over your series of stories were shown in a different light. Well done as always, can't wait for more!

Antigone Q · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

I loved this chapter. My favorite part was when Celuwen told Eilian ever so matter-of-factly that his adar was wrong. Bet poor Eilian doesn't hear _that_ very often (at least, not from someone else). And Celuwen was right, I think, Thranduil _was_ wrong insofar as the relationship between Eilian and Celuwen is concerned. I couldn't speak to Thranduil's being wrong as far as the settlement Elves are concerned. I guess we'll have to see. I expected Thranduil to really fly off the handle and he pretty much did that, but his concern for his son's welfare has come first, which was a good thing. I liked the way he showed restraint and respect toward Celuwen, too. In fact, everyone is doing a wonderful job of making Celuwen feel at home - although whether that means she actually will feel at home is another question all together. Living in a cottage in the woods with all the freedoms the settlement Elves have is quite different from living in a cave/palace with all the restrictions of a royal family. And, LOL! I can't believe that, after all Legolas' sneaking around and lying and getting easily frustrated when he was younger, Thranduil is now holding him up to Eilian as a paragon of loyal obedience. Smirk. But seriously, Legolas has gone out and done some things that will (hopefully) make Thranduil very proud, and Eilian has gone out and done...other things. I hope it doesn't cause a rift between the two brothers. Thranduil shouldn't have been comparing the two like that, in any case. And what about that remark Thranduil made about Eilian being like his Naneth? I don't know if Thranduil had been conciously thinking that or not, but I bet it is at the root of a lot of the arguments Thranduil had with his two younger sons. When I read stuff like that, by the way, not only do other pieces of your series fall into place for me but I get to thinking later what a brilliant piece of writing you were doing. Did you know that about Thranduil when you started writing these stories, or did that come to you later? So, Thranduil is concerned about Eilian being away from Celuwen so much. So is Celuwen, and so are Celuwen's parents. In fact, the only person who doesn't seem to be concerned about this is Eilian - the very person who could actually _do_ something about it. Well, I suspect the matter is going to be decided for him one way or another very soon, but it still annoys me that he hasn't at least thought through the possibility of staying closer to home. There was some truth in it when Thranduil said Eilian always does as he pleases. Send Eilian my congratulations and tell him I wish him all the best in his marriage - I'm not sure he quite understood what he was letting himself in for (not that any of us ever do). Oh, hey, plot bunny - unexpected things about marriage for Thranduil's sons. I'm watching Celuwen's interactions with Alfirin with interest. Good for Alfirin for being concerned about Celuwen's health! I know they are very different people, but they both have lots of common sense and they are both women - I wouldn't be surprised if they formed a sort of Female United Front in the face of all the testosterone. That's certainly what happened with my sister-in-law and I - heaven knows we haven't got much in common other than being rational in the face of family squabbles. I hope you write the next chapter soon. This has been an absolutely fabulous story and I've learned so much about all the characters.

LOTRFaith · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

I must say I was laughing through some of it... Especially when Ithilden walked in on them... lol.... *I only hope you survive to enjoy your good fortune.”* lol... that nearly sent me in convulsions.. Very cute.. Very cute.. Lots of tension for our youngest prince it seems... And he only has a few more days leave... Poor laddie....

Kristy · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

This was wonderful! I could feel Thranduil's frustratration and love for Eilian in equal measures. You made him very angry without making him the bad guy. I actually think I like and understand Thranduil better after this chapter. And aren't Eilian and Celuwen sweet as newlyweds!

LKK · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

I'll admit this chapter surprised me greatly, daw. The confrontation was much calmer than I expected although I doubt it's far from over. I think both Eilian and Thranduil received some surprises in their "discussion". Thranduil surprised to hear Celuwen was fading. Eilian surprised by Thranduil's reference to the queen. Thranduil wasn't in control of the conversation as much as he had thought he would be --- and that surprised him. (I hope I'm making myself clear.) Ithilden's and Alfrin's reactions amused me. They provided a nice counterpoint to Thranduil's barely controlled anger. I liked that Celuwen wanted to be a part of Thranduil and Eilian's discussion. Despite what the males want, I doubt they'll be able to keep her out of any future discussions. She's a strong-willed elf. Should be interesting to see Legolas' reaction. Next chapter, perhaps?

vic · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

Daw, The chapter was very well named! Really, one word was able to sum it all up 'Thranduil'. Once again I loved this chapter. Strong family ties and love of the newly bonded pair really shone through. I am glad that Eilian was able to weather the storm that was his father and that Celuwen is strong enough to stand up to anyone, including the King himself. I think that actually that's why Thranduil likes Celuwen- she is not afraid to speak her mind and stand up for what she believes in; she reminds me of Alfirin a bit. A few points that stood up for me: *Thranduil did a naughty thing and compared two siblings. He showed Eilian his approval for Legolas. A parent should never do that. Luckily that both brothers love each other, not to let these things get in the way. *Love the fact that Eilian was relying on his younger brother to be there to support him! sweet *Thranduil is a softy at heart(if you know where to look. Like a creamy Easter egg...hard of the outside, but nice and sweet on the inside. I'm making the analogy while at the same time trying to finally finish off all my eggs. My theory is that I have to get rid off of temptation by Monday. Out of sight, out of mind. Mmmm yummy... May be Legolas could help me out here? oops, I think I just broke a taboo for this time of day: thinking of Legolas and chocolate before 11am may be hazardous for one's health... and may be back...) I think I better finish off for now. Can't wait to find out how Legolas is going to react to the family news. I think he doesn't need to worry about his father, as he will be quite preoccupied with Elian! Vic

elentari · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

*jumping up and down* bloody hell! That was absolutely hylarious. I particularly enjoyed the concern Eilian's family had not to overtax Celuwen even before most of them realised what she had been through. And in all honesty, I do not think Thranduil would have been much better than Sólith had Eilian brought celuwen to the palace unbonded. That's an elf as traditionalist as one might hope to see- in fact, I remember a confusion about that very thing, eh, with a nandor elf and Eilian's mother's cousin? And Legolas had to kill the insane maiden? So truly, Thranduil is one heck of an elf, and venerable and all, but he has not that much room or basis to complain. Not that it would help matters any to point that out to him. *mutters about sexy broody elves* And honestly, Alfirin. they are just going to nap. Truly! (lol)

esamen · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

Daw, this is great. I thought that we were losing our Playboy of the Western World, but instead we are gaining a deeper character! I absolutely love the depth of the characters and the unpredictability of the story. You have so many surprises up your sleeve for us. Thanks so much for writing this. And please, please update soon. . . . why do you write these cliffhangers? How on earth can I possibly concentrate on my own writing when I am worried about Thranduil's next report, Eilian's hip, and Legolas's mission . . . not to mention love life? What kind of bribe will it take to get you right back to your keyboard? Godiva chocolates? Champagne? Name your price . . . we'll take up a collection . . .

mer · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

Wonderful chapter DAW! Now that it's over it wasn't so bad. Confrontations are worse before they happen, because it is all in people's minds. I also liked the way you included how Eilian missed Legolas' presence. Heck, there was nothing not to like. Though I believe you write for yourself you never disappoint me--the way you write is how I would write it if I could! Does that make sense? Looking forward to more Legolas! Bye, Mer.

Jebb · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

“On your knees, Eilian,” oh that poor prince you could feel the anger roiling off Thranduil although he kept himself well controlled I thought and welcomed his new daughter I think she may well prove as much of an asset to the king as her new husband But above all else was the sense of love and anguish Thranduil feels when he 'deals' with his difficult second born he does cherish him but doesn't understand him still I would not bet on Solith getting a warm welcome if he ever visits Adar may criticise his sons but others had better not! A most wonderful chapter thank you

Jay of Lasgalen · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

Well, that wasn't quite as bad as I feared, but it must have been bad enough for poor Eilian. 'On your knees' was NOT a good start! Your Thranduil continues to surprise me - I love his unpredictability! In between his furious reprimands, he says things like 'Sólith has always been blind to your worth.” And what was the comment about Eilian's mother about? Loved Ithilden's reaction, BTW - he also is growing on me more and more! Jay

Ms. Whatsit · 16 April 2004 · Chapter 11: Thranduil

You know, I squeal like a fangirl when you update. And I've never been disappointed yet. Ithilden walking in on our newlyweds was priceless. And so was Eilian counting on Legolas to be an ally. You've really got sibling dynamics down well. And the way Thranduil plays "good son, bad son" by mentioning Legolas and his devotion to duty is also very true to life. "Thranduil seemed to sense her discomfort too, and his face softened. He rose and beckoned to her, and she let go of Eilian’s hand and walked tentatively toward him. “I wish it had been done with more ceremony, but Eilian could not have chosen better. Welcome, daughter,” Thranduil said and kissed her brow." Aww. Thranduil's a bit scary, but he's also quite sweet in his own way. And Celuwen was very brave, to stand up to Thranduil like that! Although she needs to learn how to resist Thranduil's more subtle questioning tactics. She's very frank and straightforward and fundamentally honest---she just wouldn't notice Thranduil's gentle interrogation, would she? Ah, well, she'll learn, though I have a feeling she'll get irritated by Thranduil's manipulations at some point... Alfirin saying she'd be glad to have another female around made me wonder. She and Celuwen are very different. I don't know how they'll get along. I think Celuwen will do fairly well with Ithilden, and she'll probably clash a few times with Thranduil but still win his respect and become his ally in keeping a leash on Eilian, but Alfirin? I'm looking forward to seeing that. "You have a duty to behave as if the desires of those you defend are important to you, as if you would never dream of abusing the position you are in by taking from them that which they would not wish to give!” Well, I understand Thranduil's worry, but for crying out loud, Eilian didn't *take* anything. If the settlement got mad at Eilian marrying Celuwen without the consent of Solith, then Celuwen could just go there and say "hey, I was FADING, would you have liked it better if Eilian had left one of your own to die of grief?" If the settlement got mad about this then it would just mean they were looking for an excuse to get mad about *something,* methinks. And Thranduil and Solith are now part of the same family. Heh. As for the comment Thranduil makes about Eilian's mom...well, at last we've got to the heart of their relationship problems, haven't we?!? Ah, Elven-king angst...always fun.