Reviews (78)

Dot · 13 February 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter 15

Lovely concluding chapter, jenolas – although I admit I’m sorry to see this one end! I enjoyed the part with Legolas, Maerrin and Arwen. It was already a cosy and close scene between mother and daughter and I love that Legolas doesn’t disturb it at all but rather is welcomed easily into the picture. I felt so glad for Legolas when he realised that this tough question was actually a sign of how comfortable they feel with him and how much they value his opinion! I had to laugh at the thought that his ‘diplomatic’ answer was based on what Aragorn was likely to respond. Sarien seems to have thought of the perfect solution! You really made me smile to see how happy Maerrin is with the news that he does indeed love her. I imagine it must have been a joy to Legolas too to be the one to share such wonderful news with her. And of course now both of them will be as free as possible from hopeful suitors ;-) As always, I love the way you write the friendship between Aragorn and Legolas. It’s interesting that Aragorn still feels bitterness that Thranduil didn’t approve of their friendship. I suppose it can’t have been easy, especially knowing how important Thranduil is in Legolas’ life. That dinner sounds like a fun time! The type that can only happen amongst very close friends and family. And I was absolutely delighted with the chat between Thranduil and Aragorn. I felt so sad for Thranduil as he allowed himself to remember Elendil and the times they shared. You wrote it so well. I almost felt as privileged as Aragorn did to be able to see this side of Thranduil. I like the way they become just two fathers for a while as they try to accept the idea that greater happiness often does come at some cost but that it can be worth the pain. And as Aragorn has seen with his son, so many things have to be denied out of necessity; surely any other chances for joy should be taken. I can’t blame Thranduil for wanting to spare his son the pain that he has felt, and apparently still feels, but I’m glad he realised that the good memories are something to be cherished. I suppose he knows too how much it would have meant to him at the time to have his own father’s approval. I love the line “Thranduil held Aragorn’s gaze unflinchingly as he spoke, unafraid to admit his mistake whilst remaining as majestic and powerful in his humbleness.” It must have been an incredible moment. And that last part… What a wonderful way to finish. It’s almost as though Aragorn’s realisation of Legolas’ destiny should be sad but somehow it isn’t because you’ve written it with such a sense of rightness. As though in a moment of clarity he sees, understands and accepts the fate of all elves. Legolas is more than just his friend, he’s an elf, and as such will travel to his rightful home where another life awaits him beyond these days of love and friendship with Aragorn and his family. It must comfort Aragorn too in some way to see how much Thranduil still loves his one-time friend because he knows that Legolas will still hold him in his heart forever. I’m actually looking forward to re-reading this in one go now that it’s over, at least as soon as RL allows me to. Eldarion has a come a long way in not only accepting his duty but developing a sense of pride in who he is. And along the way everyone around him has learned a little something of themselves too. Great story, jenolas. You give your characters so much life! I hope to see more from you sometime soon. :-)

elliska · 13 February 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter 15

I loved this story and I am sad to see it end but it did so with a wonderful last chapter. I loved Legolas's thoughts as the ladies asked him to help chose dresses. As sweet as it is to see him drawn closer into their family, it is sad as well for one day he will lose them all. As Thranduil worries. I loved that part--between Thranduil and Aragorn. Very well done. Tying all the fathers' dilemas over their children's happiness/welfare together like that. And the stories they told (both about Legolas and Thranduil's younger days) were great. Great story jenolas. I really enjoyed it.

daw the minstrel · 13 February 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter 15

I've really enjoyed this glimpse of Thranduil with his son and then with Aragorn's family. I'd never thought about him being friends with Elendil and if that might have affected him.

elliska · 5 January 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter 14

Sorry this review took a while--been on vacation. This was a great chapter. I especially liked Thranduil speaking to the tree in Quenya because that's the language it recognizes--one of the few instances where this would be believable. Clever. And I liked Thranduil's introspection at the end. Very moving.

LuthienNenharma · 3 January 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter 14

That story was excellent XD 4.8 stars

lwarren · 3 January 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter 14

I reviewed the first chapter of this story back in August, and while I've kept up with it (who ever knew those speed-reading lessons would come in so handy?), I have been so swamped with school (teaching a class of third grade killer squirrels) and my mom (who's been sick alot lately) that I have not reviewed the other great chapters...and they are great. The contest, making up with Legolas, Eldarion's mission to Ithilien with Sarien, meeting Thranduil, his growth and acceptance of his legacy as the prince and heir to the throne of Gondor...wonderful stuff! So I'm on Christmas break right now and everyone is GONE from the house (heaven!!!), and I am bound and determined to review this new update! Eldarion's leavetaking with his best friend had to be difficult, given he would love to have the freedom to explore and learn as a Ranger, but he is maturing in his thoughts of his responsibilities nicely, isn't he? I thought Thranduil did a very fatherly thing, teasing both "boys" about dancing with the maidens as he clasped each by a shoulder to lead them to the horses...Eldarion especially would benefit from some *fatherly* contact in the absence of Aragorn. Arwen and Aragorn noticing Eldarion's new bearing when he returns - very much a glimpse of the closeness these two have with their offspring (as well as elven perceptiveness). Thranduil and Legolas and the other elves greeting the white tree - what a great moment when the elven King whispered his greeting to the tree, and in Quenya (jenolas, that was so very elf-y), and I love any mention of the close connection of the love between the Wood Elves and their trees. You did a great job communicating the awe that Thranduil obviously felt in seeing this direct descendant of the blessed trees of both Numenor and the Undying Lands. Nice moment between between Aragorn and Eldarion (the hug, and in public, no less!), and how very fatherly of Aragorn to bristle slightly at the mention of a message brought by Legolas from Sarien to his daughter! :-) But I almost cried (and cheered) at the end when Thranduil realizes he will eventually sail West, to see that family of his son yet to be. And so sad for Thranduil to realize that there will never be enough descriptions/stories for Elrond to compensate for his absence from the lives of his grandchildren. *sniff* Lovely, lovely chapter. linda

Karri · 3 January 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter 14

A wonderful chapter, Jenolas. Thranduil was just as charming as can be with Arwen and his daughters and very insightful at the end in coming to his realization.

Dot · 2 January 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter 14

Oh good, they’ve made it back to the city! I loved the opening with the two friends bidding one another goodbye. I thought you wrote it so well, allowing us to see their sorrow at having to part and their pride in each other as well as Eldarion’s acceptance of the role he must play but still never intruding too much. It sounds like having to dance with rather eager maidens is something that Legolas and his father are very familiar with! LOL, at least there are only a certain amount of years in which Eldarion will have to suffer that. Poor Legolas ;-) I like the part about Eldarion having earned the respect and loyalty of the guards. I hadn’t really thought about that before, what it must mean to have them protect him not just because it’s their job but because they are so loyal to him. It must make Aragorn so proud. But my favourite part – predictably! – has to be Thranduil and the Tree. I laughed at Eldarion’s surprise that even Thranduil would find something that would cause him to feel such wonder and admiration. And trust Thranduil to realise what the Tree would understand and to use that language. I just loved the idea too that the Tree responded with such warmth to the elves. You really do know how to make things extra-elfy! It was great to see Eldarion turn back into the older brother once he got home and had to humour his young sisters. “Silly child you have it backwards, ‘tis Legolas who wears his father’s beauty.” That’s so funny! But as Thranduil says, it was hardly offensive! I really like how at ease these children immediately are with Thranduil – it really shows how regular a visitor Legolas has been and how much they enjoy his company. I like that the room Thranduil gets seems to have been assigned to him because of the access to fresh air – this household has obviously encountered elves before! What a sad thought that Elrond doesn’t know these wonderful grandchildren of his. It’s hard to know if it would be good or bad that Thranduil can bring tales of this family to Elrond when he eventually sails. Good, I suppose, but it would still be painful. I don’t blame Thranduil for being grateful that Legolas doesn’t have a family that he’d bring with him when he left. I just loved the ending and the sense that Thranduil will sail, not just for the family he once knew and will meet again but for the family that might be some day. It’s a lovely thought too that in looking at Aragorn’s family, Thranduil realises that he wants this for himself and his son. Plus, Elrond doesn’t really know what he’s missing but Thranduil is witness to it now and that must make it all the more difficult to sacrifice any part of that. I’m thrilled that this story is back and I look forward to more! :-)

washow · 1 January 2005 · Chapter 13: Chapter 13

I just wanted to let you know how much I was looking forward to reading your story and how disappointed I am that you haven't updated in a long time. Would you please consider finishing this story for those of us who were enjoying it?

elliska · 2 November 2004 · Chapter 13: Chapter 13

Sorry to be so slow to review this one. It's been a rough weekend. Another great chapter that I was very happy to see. The imagery surrounding Thranduil and Eldarion dancing was very nice. :) How sad to see Faramir and his story. And then to see Legolas' little moment of clarity at the very end. Well done.

Dot · 1 November 2004 · Chapter 13: Chapter 13

Ah yay, more Faramir and Legolas together. I find I’m growing quite fond of seeing the two of them interact with one another! It seems Eldarion almost rivals the elves in his love of dancing and merrymaking! I had to laugh at how happy Legolas seemed not to be suffering the usual demand for his presence by the maidens! I love how good he is to Sarien, so willing to provide support for someone he’s known nearly all the young man’s life. And what’s up with him anyway? Is it a secret?!! “Belts had been discarded to allow more freedom of movement and now shirts hung open where laces had been loosened by vigorous activity, the fabric clinging to sweat soaked chests, just as long golden locks and shorter midnight black hair clung to faces and necks.” Relaxed!Thranduil is always wonderful to see. And yeah, sweaty!Thranduil too! It must be such fun for Eldarion too, considering the fact that Gondor’s king is unlikely to be so comfortable and open at feasts in Minas Tirith. Actually, Thranduil and Eldarion seem to be growing very close. As a ruler it will be of use to Eldarion to have such close relations with another ruler but more than that, he can learn a lot from this elf and Thranduil himself seems to be enjoying being around a young person again to whom he can offer some guidance. It’s good to see Faramir have some of the spotlight and allow the others to see his great store of knowledge as well as his love for his people and his brother. I’m glad Legolas was able to offer him some comfort when his grief overwhelmed him. What a nice thought, that Legolas is to be gifted with the materials to build his ship. I quite like the fact that Faramir doesn’t avoid the topic either but seems to accept Legolas’ fate just as he accepts his own. And that last sentence was great – that moment of realisation for Legolas that his father knew what he was talking about when he feared for his son’s heart. At least, though, Legolas can look at his father and know that it is possible to survive even that pain. This is just such an engrossing story! And I think I’ve managed to catch up now…;-)

Dot · 1 November 2004 · Chapter 12: Chapter 12

Ooh, I really liked this chapter. It sounds like the lads from Gondor are having a ball! LOL at them not being able to drag themselves from their beds after the previous night. I must say, I loved the relaxed atmosphere of the contest, with anyone who wished to entering and nothing but some very friendly rivalry. I’m feeling a bit bad for not thinking of how well Faramir might do! Of course, it makes sense that he’d possess great skill. You’ve shown a wonderful sense of friendship throughout this story between Faramir and Legolas so it was lovely to see the two of them left on the field, turning the contest into an opportunity to show off and have fun. I don’t blame Sarien for feeling a little inadequate when he sees Faramir’s skill but I’m glad he had his friend there to reassure him. Eldarion is very encouraging now that he’s come to accept the different futures in store for him and his best friend. You made me laugh at the two of them plotting together for Eldarion to spend a few days now and then with the rangers! I just love the way Thranduil appears suddenly out of nowhere. I hadn’t really thought before about how Eldarion and Sarien’s friendship reflects in some ways that of Aragorn and Legolas in earlier days. And of course, Legolas was witness to Aragorn learning to be a king, just as Sarien sees Eldarion’s struggle. Tsk, is Legolas distracted from his duties again?! I LOVED the image of Thranduil and Eldarion sparring!! It was good of Thranduil to indulge the young man and give him a chance to show off his obvious talent, even if it isn’t quite to the standard of the elves. Actually, Thranduil should spar with another elf and show the men some real skill! He seems to have made Eldarion’s day too by telling him that he used some of Elrond’s moves! It’s lovely to see how proud and happy he is of this and I think it’s great too to know that something of Elrond is passed down through his line. I had to smile at Eldarion insisting on wearing his coronet! It seems that he displays his position with complete pride now and he seems so much more at ease with his role. I’d nearly forgotten in all the excitement that the parting between Sarien and Eldarion would still have to come. Eldarion seems to have accepted it but that still won’t stop him from missing his friend. Oh well, on to the next chapter… :-)

Dot · 1 November 2004 · Chapter 11: Chapter 11

Sorry, sorry, sorry. I was in London for a week with no Internet access and managed to miss three chapters… It seems that Eldarion’s shocked realisation of what his future holds has also driven home the fact that he may have been insensitive towards Thranduil. I thought Thranduil handled the situation very well, letting him know that no offence was taken and also offering him some advice. “[…]my stern glare is rather intimidating” LOL! Never! I love the idea that Thranduil counted Elendil as one of his friends. I can only imagine his reaction when it dawned on him that he reacted to Legolas’ friendship with Aragorn and Gimli in the same way as Oropher did to his choice of friends. I like the fact that Eldarion not only noticed a similarity but took it upon himself to stand up for Legolas. It sounds like there’s an interesting conversation in store between Thranduil and Aragorn – I’ll look forward to that! The image of them all listening to Thranduil as he wove stories of times past for them was just wonderful. And boy would he have some tales to tell! I just loved the thought of Legolas resting his head on his adar’s shoulder as they sang together. The closeness between them is just so heart-warming and it’s good to know that his father can bring Legolas some peace. It must have been very hard for Legolas to leave his father behind when he did eventually sail. “Making a silent vow to no longer avoid his responsibilities, nor give his father cause to reprimand his behaviour, Prince Eldarion of Gondor said a final farewell to his youthful naiveté and willingly stepped onto the path that would one day lead him to the throne.” Oh, how beautifully expressed. Eldarion has obviously learned how precious those he loves are to him as well as to accept with grace that which life has given him. I think his father will be proud to see a change in him when he returns. See, all he needed was some time with Thranduil! ;-)

daw the minstrel · 31 October 2004 · Chapter 13: Chapter 13

I love the picture of Thranduil and Eldarion all disheveled from dancing. I forgot to mention in my review of the last chapter how much I liked the idea that it was Faramir who was Legolas's competitor at archery.

Bodkin · 31 October 2004 · Chapter 12: Chapter 12

I liked the Faramir / Legolas archery competition. Faramir would be much better than an novice ranger - he's had years of practice to go with his perfectionist nature. Eldarion's coming to terms with his role - now we don't want him becoming arrogant. What a fine line to walk! Good match between Eldarion and Thranduil - very father / son in nature - encouraging, making it hard enough, but not too hard and coming out with the kind of comments designed to make Eldarion feel proud. Liked Thranduil's comment about Legolas being too busy playing to look after his guests.

daw the minstrel · 30 October 2004 · Chapter 12: Chapter 12

I really like the way that Eldarion is developing here. He's a believable young adult who is coming to understand himself and his role in the world.

elliska · 30 October 2004 · Chapter 12: Chapter 12

Another great chapter. I like the comparison of Eldarion and Sarien to Legolas and Aragorn. That must have made Eldarion think about some things. But I loved Thranduil sparing with Eldarion and pointing out that he sees some of Elrond's skills in the boy. That would make you extremely and rightfully proud. I'm glad to see that Eldarion is saying he is the son of the king with pride now. It won't always be easy, but he has learned some things. Loved it. Post again soon.

elliska · 24 October 2004 · Chapter 11: Chapter 11

I love this depiction of Thranduil. I can definitely see him as a great story teller. I bet he told some great ones that night. And I like the thought of Thranduil being friends with Elrond and Elendil despite Oropher's opinions. Again, I can see that as firmly in line with his personality and also it is amusing as Eldarion points out since he likely was not immediately approving of all of Legolas' friends. But this was my favorite: “An affliction suffered by the young of any race, in my judgement, but one a future ruler must learn to avoid. It is also wise to learn to keep your feelings from showing too readily on your face, especially when involved in delicate negotiations or in sight of your Steward,” he advised, inclining his head to where Faramir was standing and watching the two with some concern. “Faramir can see that you are upset yet he dares not approach to ask you the cause because my stern glare is rather intimidating, or so I am told,.” Thranduil added with a chuckle pleased to see the smile that the young man now wore. Too funny. Great advice but great comedy at the same time. Looking forward to the next chapter.

Bodkin · 24 October 2004 · Chapter 11: Chapter 11

Lovely picture of Thranduil and Legolas. I'm glad to see Eldarion accepting his fate - it's the first step to being happy with his lot. And the lot of a Crown Prince isn't too bad. There are worse things to be. I like Thranduil's acceptance of Legolas's friends - it seems he's realised that you can't make your children's friends for them.

daw the minstrel · 24 October 2004 · Chapter 11: Chapter 11

What a nice ending sentence! Eldarion is really learning from his experience and observations here. Thranduil was generous, seeing what Eldarion needed and gently providing it.

Jay of Lasgalen · 24 October 2004 · Chapter 11: Chapter 11

I'm glad to see Eldarion finally growing up and accepting responsibility! That last image of Legolas and Thranduil was beautiful, especially the observation that Legolas was at peace when with his father. Not many stories show that love between them. Jay

Dot · 17 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Chapter 10

I’m enjoying this story so much! I really liked the part with the banner. It’s such a lovely thought that Aragorn treasures the one Arwen made for him and ensures that it is always the one used when he travels. After he’s gone it would be a wonderful reminder to Eldarion of the history his parents shared and the great battle that heralded the more peaceful times into which he was born. Arwen’s great love for and pride in her son really comes through too in her gift of a banner to him. That moment of pride that Eldarion then feels in his royal house is great to see. LOL at Faramir and Sarien staring in utter awe at Thranduil! I imagine he’s probably used to it by now, though… I love the thought that the trees have such respect for the rangers. I’d say it made Faramir’s day to be told that the trees know him. It’s just so sad that Legolas can’t understand the trees as much as he wants to and I thought it was a really touching image when Thranduil puts his arm around his waist to try and offer some comfort. I do like Sarien. I agree with Thranduil – there’s nothing wrong with him recognising how good he is, especially when he doesn’t have an iota of arrogance about him. And ah, an archery contest! Your characters are extremely fond of those! It should prove very interesting. “Is there not something you are forgetting my son?” I had to laugh at Thranduil’s little reprimand. It seems that it’s just as strange for Legolas to see these guests as official visitors as it is for the guests themselves to act as such. And they’ve built their own cottage??! It’s good to see that Eldarion and his friend are so very much at home here, even if they were in Ithilien rather more often that they were supposed to be! That whole part about deciding what to wear was so funny, especially when Eldarion is reminded of conversations his sisters and their friends have. I felt kind of bad for them when they were so overdressed, though. I was so glad Thranduil chose to see it as respect for himself and immediately put them at their ease. Oh, I just loved the description of the freedom and informality of the feast. It’s so very wood-elfy to dress so simply with flowers in their hair and bare feet. What a beautiful image. I see Legolas wears a mithril circlet when in Minas Tirith. I suppose they’d all think he was a bit mad if he turned up with leaves around his head. That conversation about stewards and stubborn kings and their sons was brilliant. I love to see them all so at ease with each other. “Tell me, my lord, what was the first official duty you performed as King?” *cringe* I know that was probably pure thoughtlessness on the part of Eldarion but…ouch, poor Thranduil. Those were certainly not memories he would have wanted to relive on such a happy occasion. I really felt for him too being the one who has to help Eldarion see the reality of his position as crown prince. I suppose Eldarion must have known the circumstances that would lead to his ascent to the throne but no doubt he never really thought about it. Ah well, a perfectly good night is ruined for them now. Thranduil’s own loss has been brought to the fore again and it must have been a terrible shock for Eldarion to suddenly realise what has to happen for him to become king. It must be really hard to be trained all his life for a position he can only take up on the death of someone he loves. Can’t wait for more! :-)

elliska · 16 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Chapter 10

Another great chapter. I like the bantering between Eldarion and Thranduil about stewards. That was great. The ending was certainly a shocker--perfectly true, but one heck of a thing to think about for Eldarion.

Tinnuial · 16 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Chapter 10

Oh dear....I hope Thranduil is not offended. A lovely chapter as always and I love the Thranduil you have written. Such a refreshing change from the beastly elf-kings floating around elsewhere.... Your Thranduil is playful yet serious when he needs to be, majestic, a wonderful father and absolutely gorgeous (I imagine ;) Just Perfect!!!! Thanks for the new chapter... :)

Bodkin · 16 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Chapter 10

Eldarion can do the formality, if pushed, but he really doesn't have the intellectual maturity for this yet - which is hardly surprising - considering he's - what? - somewhere between 16 and 20 or so. What did he think would be the first concern of a new king? Since you only inherit the throne on the death of the previous incumbent! (Except Aragorn, of course - he's rather a heap of centuries too late to have to see to the obsequies of the last king.) I rather enjoyed seeing the Prince of Mirkwood being picked up by his adar for not behaving in a suitably host-like manner. Parents never change! And the trees being aware of the rangers and approving of them - lovely image; although it's a shame that Legolas doesn't have the understanding of the trees that his adar does.