Reviews (270)

Alice · 2 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

I think a fluffy elfling story is a very good idea. Man, two character death stories right in a row. It's interesting on how different the two stories dealt with death though. The other one was sad because of Legolas's reaction and this one was sad more through it being a beloved character that died. I think we were all a tad bit more fond of Sinnarn than we realized. I like this story better though. I think it may my favorite one that you've written. The scenes are tied together a lot better and the pacing is better too. Also, the suspense and stuff was a lot of fun and really well done. There was definitely building tension through the entire thing that worked really well. I love this story. It all ties together so nicely and it's a very effective gap filler. So this chapter, oh my god was it sad. I freaked out my brother who was in the room while I was reading it. He got a little concerned until I told him why I was crying at which point he rolled his eyes and had yet another " God my sister's weird" moment. It was just so moving. It really hit home how bad the darkness coming back was. They were all so hopeful and they only got ten years! Sinnarn didn't even get to have kids. It makes me really sad now to think that Legolas started the counting game with Sinnarn who's now dead. I liked the funeral scene. Beliond was awesome. The old grouch came through. I loved the scene with Elowen. Legolas was sort of adopted by her and he's going to miss her. I feel bad for Annael though because both his mother and his daughter are leaving. Just him and Beliniel now. Poor woodelves. I reread this chapter and get all sad again. They put up with so much. So excellent, excellent chapter and story. I love it even if it's going to be a while before I reread it, it's so upsetting. I look forward to your next story greatly. Even if it is another tear-jerker.

perelleth · 2 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Wow! You must be drained! If this has been painful to read through, it must have been tenfold worse to write! Now that everything is over, I must confess that I almost gave up reading this particular story in chapter three. ...he said and went on his way back to his own apartment, feeling the satisfaction that came from believing that he had done the right thing.” That sentence sounded like death toll to me. Believing.Ooops. Anyway, I chose to read on, so I’m not blaming you for this overly sad ending. Now, your OCs have taken over the scene, and you must have a whole fan fiction community mourning one of them! That’s something to be proud of, for it means that you’ve managed to bring them to life pretty well…Congrats there! The narrative device was fantastic, as usual, I like the way you try different approaches in different stories. This one had an almost movie quality, in the way you kept moving from one place to another, following the thread, and slowly giving away small details. I agree with you that Tolkien’s world is one of loss and sacrifice, but then, most deaths he shows under a light of hope, or just glides over, or simply happen to characters we are not all too familiar with, or we hear of them as in a long forgotten tale, as in the Silm... What ff does, and you have particularly mastered this trade, is approaching the characters and the situations, as if through a lens. Focusing on family relationships, as your series does, makes the reader feel closer to the characters, because he/she can relate to their feelings and emotions better. And then we come to Sinnarn, and you get him killed and the shadow returns, just once again. It is interesting to see changes in your approach. I find that this level of angst and detail is uncharacteristically in other stories of yours. We never get to read what happened to the queen,through a close, inmediate pov, when the shadow returned before and Siondel’s Adar was killed we see it through a very young Eilian’s eyes, and such. Now, the scene where you describe how Eilian finds the bodies is, as I’ve said, uncharacteristically raw and detailed in your writing (that doesn’t mean I don’t approve of it!) and painfully… I can’t find the word, suggestive? I mean, Tynd must have been hit first, on his back, and as he fell forward, maybe trying to push Sinnarn to the dubious safety of the trench, Sinnarn must have turned around to help him and three arrows hit him. Wow. It says so much, but, then, what is hinted at is doubly painful. Another subtle difference I found in Ithilden’s reaction. He was fretful and out of himself in Tangled Web, but here he’s so collected that he’s almost frightening. The difference between hope and certainty, again greatly conveyed. What I miss here is hope. This is hopeless despair, and no ray of hope can be seen, except the sheer determination of the king and his people (I love your Thranduil, he’s great!) Not that you could ever find another, for this was such a bleak moment for them, but... well, let’s come to the point, I read fan fiction for evasion, and I fight to find sense in senseless grief and unfair bereavement almost on a daily basis in my professional life, so being confronted with this kind of actual, almost hopeless despair here is kind of, man, there’s no escape! ;-) No, seriously, it is my fault, for I knew at chapter three. I cannot say this is one of my favourite stories of yours, I still prefer Tangled Web, but I do think it is a good one, and a fitting piece in how your story arc is evolving, so congratulations again. Only... may I ask for a fluffy elfling story with a happy Ithilden on it anytime soon? I'm sure you're needing that, too! :-)

jlmart · 2 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

I read somewhere that Tolkien hoped to create a universe which other authors, artists etc would want to work in and add to. (Sort of blows objections to fanfic out of the water doesn't it!) You have created a remarkable world within that universe full of fully fleshed out characters that wrap themselves around your heart and make you smile, cheer and cry for and with them. I have read all the stories in chronological order and have enjoyed my visits to your world enormously. Your stories have been happy and sad, funny and poignant, fluffy and dramatic, but never heartbreaking. Lorellin was gone before we met the characters and Turgon's death was almost inevitable given his recklessness. I was most affected by Galelas' death but it aroused pity more than anything. In short, your stories were a safe place to go, where life was exciting but those I was most emotionally vested in were safe. I should have realized that you are far far too good an author to overlook reality. This is a world at war, and in war no one is safe. Tuilin's death brought tears to my eyes because of the effect her loss had on Legolas but Sinnarn's death was truly heartbreaking in that it affected everyone. Still, it was how the other characters reacted that brought tears to my eyes. Eilian's initial numbness and guilt followed by his despair at having to face his father and brother. Thranduil's sudden realization watching Emmelin followed by his visualization of a young Sinnarn frolicking beside them on the way back to the palace, Sinnarn and Tynd's bodies being claimed by their fathers, Ithilden and Alfirin drawing strength from one another and Legolas desperately holding on to the slimmest of hopes as long as he can. The funeral, however, was the killer as Thranduil, the remarkable leader that he is, rises above the last in a lifetime of losses to become the strength and rallying point that his people need in a time of crisis and growing darkness. We see the result as Legolas steadies and continues growing towards the elf who would soon join the Fellowship to try to destroy the destroyer forever. You have done a fabulous job - Bravo! (Now could we have something lighter? I am running out of Klennex!)

Rose Sared · 2 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Oh how sad, and how sensitive. You are a story telling genious, my dear. I am too full of sniffs to do your work justice but you have inspired me. Thank you Rose

emjo · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Oh Daw sorry I haven't reviewed this story my boyfriend was in an accident and life has been a little crazy, but I've managed to keep up with this story (actually one of the few things that brighten my day right now). I loved this story even though it made me even sadder. Legolas is definatly ready to go help save middle earth, and in my head Sinnarn will be with his family again eventually. Anyway great job. Can't wait to see what the next story will be!

The Karenator · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

I've had to take a little time to think about my review. Not because I have anything negative to say, but because I have so many things bumping around my head that I wasn't sure how to organize my thoughts. First off, despite your reservations about this story, I think it's one of your best. As each chapter progressed, the tension just wound tighter and tighter. By the time we got to the last chapter, the coil was wound so tightly that the tension was almost unbearable. Of course, Tolkien's world is fiction, but I think the plot of the story is so appealing to readers because it's so relevant to the world in his time and in ours now. He created characters who rose above the terror and trials of battling evil by choosing to do the right thing. We have characters who are loyal, brave, self-sacrificing and determined despite overwhelming odds that they will most likely perish. Your story captures the essence of these qualities in your characters. Mirkwood was unique in that it was the only known Elven realm of that time without the protection of a ring of power, and it's people were constantly under assault. In one of your earlier stories you said that Eilian thought that his father kept the shadow from their door simply by his strength of will. In this story, we see that not only was Thranduil's strength of will the barrier that kept his people safe, but the woodland people themselves were possessed of the same kind of determination as their king. We can easily see why Thranduil was considered the greatest of all Elven kings, but we also see that he was supported by people who helped him reach that height. When Legolas realized how much strength Ithilden drew from Alfirin, Ithilden and Alfirin seemed to parallel the relationship of Thranduil and his people. Both relationships are closely bound in mutual support. The loss of peace and the loss of life go hand in hand. My favorite line: There before Legolas stood the king of the Woodland Realm, one who would fight the Shadow for every inch of soil, every rock, and every tree, and if by some mischance, an enemy overcame him, he would grasp it by the neck to drag it down with him and spit in its face as he did so. This is a beautiful description of the unmovable determination of the king in the face of such a personal loss. Sinnarn's loss was felt by everyone, and each in their own way held up someone else. Everyone seemed to know that Sinnarn's and Tynd's deaths were symbolic for all the losses that the woodland people had known and would know again in the future. They were markers for the death of peace. Dol Guldur was occupied again, but the people stood firm with resolve. Emmelin and Elowen's leaving didn't seem to be an escape from evil, but a symbolic step toward healing the hurts done to the realm. Gosh, I know this sounds like a bad high school book report, but the whole story seemed to me to be about so much more than just a couple of scouting trips and the loss of a family member. I could be wrong...:>) However, I can't tell you enough how wonderful I thought this story was. You outdid yourself. Karen

Elena Tiriel · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Eeeek. So many of the wonderful reviewers here at SOA make me feel so inadequate... I'm afraid that's a permanent state now that I've read Dot's lovely poem... - Barbara, the wholly inadequate reviewer (but loyal and appreciative reader) (um, except when you make her cry...)

Dot · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

"His name is Sinnarn," he said, "for his life will be a new story to be woven with all the others in the song of Arda." Ithilden, One Year in Mirkwood When a future of peace seems so far away And Shadow grows closer every day What better way to seize a moment of joy Than to rejoice at the birth of a baby boy The grandson longed for by the king for years Was greeted with smiles and joyful tears His parents loved him from his first cry He would ever be the apple of his grandfather’s eye The child was dark-haired and fair of face Full of mischief, life and grace He thrived in a home of love and of light Sheltered from the dangers he would one day fight He learned to swim at his father’s side He learned to climb and he learned to ride He learned of duty and honour, of the sword and the bow All the warrior skills he needed to know His father gave him a harp and together they’d sing, Both grateful for the comfort it would bring It never failed to lift him out of despair When he was troubled by worry and care For sometimes he struggled as his father’s heir Duty seemed a burden too heavy to bear A good warrior and full of courage was he But he oftentimes thoughtless or careless could be Open and eager to meet Dwarves and Men His curiosity took over time and again Still slowly he proved he was someone to trust Who would protect his home as long as he must One day he was truly put to the test When with too much wine he lay down to rest And prisoners escaped while under his care, Found too late, though the Elves searched everywhere He had been tricked, though they did not yet know And so his punishment came as a very harsh blow He felt the disgrace, saw his family’s pain But knew that in hiding there was nothing to gain He remembered all he knew of courage and tried To learn this lesson with dignity and pride Quietly and bravely he rebuilt once more The good reputation he’d had before A great battle followed, of which tales are still told And the warriors welcomed him back to the fold Proudly he swore to do what his duty would ask He pulled out his sword and turned to the task He fought with his friends for his home and his king Knowing the dangers that battle would bring Around him friends fell and Death drew near Yet on he went and fought without fear Till he too was injured and almost died For something started by lust and by pride The battle was won, there were rumours of peace But deep down he felt a sense of unease He knew that the peace was unlikely to last Shadow would return as it had in the past He turned to what he treasured most in his life His home, his people, and now his new wife In love and in peace he found anew His joyful spirit and great happiness too Though he still believed a time would come when Shadow would stir in the south again And evil did come to the forest once more Yet something seemed different than it had before Someone was needed to go and to see What this new danger could possibly be So he knew with never the smallest of doubt To protect his home he had to find out The threat to them, if there was any way That this new evil could be kept at bay Off he went with courage in his heart Prepared once more to do his part But no matter how much strength he tried to show He had no hope against this foe Fate had decreed this was the end For Sinnarn, beloved son, husband and friend The hearts of his family filled with dread As his brave soul to Mandos fled To us his death seems so very wrong But he played his part in Arda’s song We remember his courage and his heart so true His gift of finding joy and of spreading it too

sofia · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

just reading the chapter title made me very nervous. Facing Loss! A few paragraphs in I immediately thought Sinnarn died because of Ithilden and Emmelin's reaction... I can't believe you killed Sinnarn off. I never really cared deeply about Sinnarn like I did with Eilian and Ithilden, and Legolas, and their bodygaurds but still it was a shock. More grief. And of course you brought me to tears again. I liked Beliond's part in in Sinnarn's funeral. It was sweet. The funeral scene was written out very well. Another brilliant story, I might add. -sofia

Jay of Lasgalen · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Yippee! My hotel room has wireless internet access! Having said that - Daw, what a sad chapter. It came as no surprise that poor Sinnarn was dead, we'd all worked that out - but the pain of his wife, of Ithilden and Alfirin, and especially Thranduil (who has seen so much loss already) was very vivid. I felt for Eilian as well - he's so much a warrior he doesn't blame himself, but this is his nephew. The scene between Thranduil and Eilian was very poignant. I loved the final image of Thranduil, the Elven King. He's so Churchillian. 'We shall fight them in the trees and the clearings. We shall fight them in the meadows. We will never surrender!' Jay

nessie · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Wow. And you called this 'A Spring of Joy'? There's babies being stolen, fawns being ripped to pieces, beloved characters dying, Nazgul coming...Joy indeed! But this is terrible (Sinnarn being dead). I mean, we saw Sinnarn grow up! You really had me balling here. Really. I haven't cried so much in a fanfiction story since Turgon died, actually. And I was wondering where Amdir went. But I'm glad he spoke here. But ooh! Poor Ithilden and Alfirin! You should never outlive your children. Or your grandchildren, for that matter. I feel so bad for the royal family right now. And Elowen's leaving with Emmelin! I'll miss them, Elowen especially. She really was like a surrogate mother to Legolas. But anyways, besides the fact that this story's SAD, it's still great like all your others. Can't wait til' you come out with the next one! ~nessie~

jambaby1963 · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

That was a very moving story. I am glad I finally found my way, through a link on another page, back to Stories of Arda. I like fanfiction, but I have to read many lessor quality stories to find one there of high quality. Stories of Arda is always filled with quality stories, of which I think I enjoy yours the most. I hope you have many more in store, and perhaps a story someday when the elf prince meets a certain ranger. I am eager to know your take on their relationship. Annette (jambaby)

Brazgirl · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Oh my. Such a sad chapter. I am sad Sinnarn died, even more when I read his family's reaction. I wonder how Ithilden must have felt, since he was the one who send his own son to his death. I think it was his time, because he almost died in the battle of the five armies... but I'll miss him. Beliond was nice!!! And surprising. What I really like is the key you left in Legolas' heart in the end, when he swore to vanquish the source of his nephew's death. It was touching and a nice explanation for his joining in the Fellowship.

Leaward · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

*wipes tears* So well done, Daw. And hopefully Emmelin will see Sinnarn soon. I like how Legolas sees the difference between 'his father' and 'the king' and takes comfort in that. And a lovely way of saying good-bye too. And so from a 'spring of joy' to a winter of discontent ...

Bodkin · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

This is going to sound silly, but I'm just too depressed to comment properly. Poor Ithilden is so going to blame himself for putting Sinnarn there. If I was Annael and Beliniel, I'd get on that boat too. And I bet Beliond gets killed protecting Thranduil's back while Legolas is down south. Done well, but I wish it had not been done at all.

elliska · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Ok, I have tried twice to leave this a review but that requires re-reading it and it is just so sad I lose it again. I am really impressed at how well you portrayed everyone's dawning realization of what happened. Thranduil and crew expect that they are looking for Loriel. They would all be completely lost when they see Emmelin crying so, especially after Celuwen shows up with Loriel. Given a moment then to focus elsewhere, seeing a reaction that he remembers only too well, Thranduil gets it. Including the detail of Thranduil's reaction when he realized his wife was gone and using it to show how he figured this out was very powerful. And Ithilden! That was where I lose it every time I read this chapter. From Thranduil saw his face to For just a second, Thranduil closed his eyes (seems too much of a spoiler to quote whole lines in this review)--that is such a powerfully portrayed sequence. Simple actions that speak volumes. I love how Thranduil pulls it back together here and starts taking care of people--it shows many things: his long experience with this sort of tragedy, his long experience as a father/head of his family and his long experience as a king. So well done. The scene with Eilian finding Sinnarn and discovering it was a Nazgul broke my heart. Poor Eilian. I just can't say much more there. I could feel for Legolas and Annael in that scene with Calith. I have been on the receiving end of the "Don't be alarmed but you are needed at home" phrase--I don't think there is anything more alarming that anyone could say--there is no better way to say it, but it makes your heart stop, I swear it. That scene was also extremely well done--it built suspense when we already knew what happened just in anticipation of the scene we would see 'at home.' And I liked the way you handled that--seeing only the aftermath of Legolas finding out made it more powerful somehow because the reader can fill in the blanks themselves. Stylistically, I was impressed with how you handled wrapping up the story line with Mithrandir and Gollum amongst all this larger grief. You did that well. And I liked the scene with Legolas and Ithilden and Alfirin--seeing grieving people trying to take care of one another is very tragic and I think it is singularly realistic that Legolas simply would not know how to respond to that (no one does). Again, poor Eilian--seeing him struggling with survivors guilt to use a modern term. He would know that he did nothing wrong and that just would be absolutely no comfort at all and that is what makes it so sad. I remember when my dad died, I had to accompany his body to his burial place. Not an easy thing to do. Again, I felt Eilian pain with this--and when he gave Sinnarn to Ithilden. I can barely get through that part. Very well done. Put on top of that the news that Eilian brings and it is a miracle Thranduil's heart didn't really stop. If the Shadow was returning, then every living thing in the Woodland Realm would feel it, and none of them would be safe from the kind of loss that Sinnarn’s family and Tynd’s had suffered. There it is and that is too true. I am so impressed with the funeral scene (I always am impressed with the rituals you create for Important Events). Legolas turned now to see his father looking at Sinnarn, with his face for once unguarded in public. And suddenly, in the weary slump of his father’s shoulders, Legolas could see all of Thranduil’s years, years in which evil had been defeated and returned more times than Legolas could recall. I quote the whole thing even though it just doesn't seem right to put big spoilers in the review in this chapter because this was absolutely my favorite line. It and the whole paragraph struck me as a very powerful way to show the weight of this event and of Thranduil's life. Very well written. And everyone's words were very touching--bawled through this entire part. I loved the people you chose to speak and what they said. And most of all I loved that at the end of it, when Legolas looks back at his father, he is adar and king again. Legolas has seen his father's strength many times in his life but he gets it here--he more than sees it, he understands it and what it means and takes. ...grasp it by the neck to drag it down ... -- so well written. As sad as it is for Annael (and Legolas--she was so important to him), I am glad Emmelin and Elowen are sailing. I think it is another realistic touch and I am just glad to know that they are safe in Aman. I hope they do find Siondel there. This showed very well how Fellowship Legolas came to be. I remember when he and Beliond are discussing his reasons for accepting Elrond's request--this must have been on his mind then. I really liked the ending--I admit, I blinked when I saw "The End," but I really like it. You see Legolas's thoughts about his grief and his determination born of it. And there really isn't anything else to say. Period. I think, stylistically, if you did another chapter, it would weaken the story. What would it be about? They're grieving. We know that. Ending it here emphasizes the enormity of the situation and Legolas's reaction to it by leaving the focus there. It is powerful. This whole story was powerful. I am sure you will do a nice fluffy elfling story. I like adult Legolas better, honestly. But I kind of need a nice fluffy elfling story and I do not doubt for a moment that you do--it's harder to write it than read it. Daw, may you write these forever. I think I've come to like you protrayal of Tolkien better than Tolkien's. Wonderful story!

JastaElf · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

OH MY GOD YOU DID KILL SINNARN!!!!! AIIIII!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! *breathes* OK, no, YOU didn't kill Sinnarn, the Orcs and Evil did... and Tynd as well... and we know others will die too. But OMG.... It takes courage to write a story like this, daw, and it doesn't surprise me at ALL that you have that kind of courage. To create an OC and allow others to love him... then to do what reality and the story demand--and allow him to be hurt and killed as others have been hurt and killed--yes, that takes honesty to your art, and guts, and true story-teller talent. Because these things will happen. People die--and sometimes they are members of Thranduil's family. And Oh dear LORD, Thranduil... he is magnificent in this, and I was so glad to see Legolas able to see his Adar through that particular lens! The way you described his loss and recovery was just wonderful. I have always liked the way you use words, and this is one of the best use of words you have ever created. In fact, all the reactions--from Emmelin's stricken cry to Ithilden's face losing colour... to Eilian's stunned grief... to all of it, just tragically wonderful.... A brilliant, moving, sad, magnificent chapter, to a superb story. Thank you SO much!

thechevin · 1 June 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

This is the third time I have started this review the first two times I had to abandon it as I could not find the words to tell you how I feel about this story and the last chapter I still don't have the words that will do it justice but I have to say something so here I go Like Emmelin, Ithilden and Alfirin I feared the worst but had this irrational hope that I would be wrong and Sinnarn and Tynd would somehow survive. When it becam clear they had not I could feel their pain radiating off the screen. Heartbreaking as that was Thranduil's and Legolas'loss was almost worse becasue they are alone in their grief and do not have a partner to sustain them Legolas' thoughts about his bond with Tuilinn and his hope that perhaps Emmelin might be wrong and then his visit to his brother and sister in law and his frail hope is dashed. I loved the support Thranduil gave Eilian and Maltanaur of course who like the king has seen this horror before Also that brief glimpse of Thranduil's pain and exhuastion before he puts on his kingly face and determines that whatever happens he will endure. Legolas obviously needed to see that as well and his thoughts of his father spitting in the face of evil was enough to stiffen his own resolve to fight this new darkness with everything at his disposal This has been a harrowing story to read but so engrossing and powerful that even with the death of Sinnarn I can still appreciate how much effort it took to write and tell you how much I look forward to reading more from you soon thank you so much Judy

csue · 31 May 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

That was amazing! I have been an avid reader of your fanfics for some time now and have wanted to leave a review, but wasn't sure what to say that would be worthy of such great stories. You have created such wonderful OCs that I have trouble distinguishing them from Tollkien's own! The grief over Sinnarn's death was so vivid and memorable. I dreaded reading this final chapter with a sinking feeling of what was to come, but then again couldn't stop checking for updates. Thank you so much for sharing these stories with us. You have a wonderful writing ability and please know there are so many of us out there that cannot wait to read more.

Yanic · 31 May 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Your Legolas has now become the book Legolas. Have I told you how much I worship you as a writer?

moonshine · 31 May 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Wow Daw, that was a jaw dropper. I was not expecting any of that at all. Today`s my birthday, and even though that was a said chapter, it really made my day! Sinnarn is gone. This chapter makes me think a lot about all the elves that have died in Legolas` life. There`s a lot of them. And of all the other lives that these deaths have affected. It`s depressing, but at the same time, it`s something to think about in our own world. Many people die and it still has the same affect. Seeing it in a different perspective is somewhat humbling. You read about how these characters grew up and their relationship among others. And then to see it fall apart is very shocking. I have to say, this is one of my favorites that you`ve written so far. You have ended it with so much emotion and unanswered questions attached to it, like how Loriel is to be effected or how Thranduil will approach the returning shadow. You cease to amaze me! I`m once again wondering if you are going to write another. And if so, when? Lol, I`m a very eager person! Great job on this story. I love it!

Larian Elensar · 31 May 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

*******Spoilerish*************** Ack. I knew you were going to do that. I mean, I guess there was no real choice. The wood elves were smart enough to know that despite their grief, they needed to keep fighting. (But given how sad I was over this, I can't even imagine being able to write it!!)

Lianna · 31 May 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

I am a newcomer to your work. The first story of yours that I read was "A Creature of Fire," and since then, I have been meandering randomly through your earlier stories while following "A Spring of Joy" closely. I think you had to do what you did when you killed Sinnarn. In order for us, your readers, to truly appreciate the impact that the return of the Shadow had on Mirkwood and all of Middle-Earth, and in order for your remarkably canon-consistent Legolas to become the elf he needs to be (no wonder you have difficulty writing him!), someone not only close to Legolas and Thranduil but also deeply familiar to your readers had to die. You simply could not do it by killing off minor OCs in red tunics. But poor Sinnarn! And his poor parents! The scene with Eilian and Ithilden was heartbreaking, but it is good to know that the bond between these two brothers will not be broken by this tragedy. When I read "A Creature of Fire," I was actually a bit irritated with you. Although I understood why it was necessary for Legolas to have loved and lost, so that he would still be unattached at the time of the Quest despite no longer being extremely young, I had hoped that his relationship with Tuilinn would progress to a fuller level -- perhaps even marriage -- before their final separation. But now I understand. If you had allowed Tuilinn and Legolas to marry, he would have been as bereft as Emmelin is here when his spouse died. And since, like Emmelin (but unlike Thranduil when he lost his spouse), Legolas has no children or kingdom to keep him in Middle-Earth, it would have been hard to justify the fact that he did not sail to Valinor. Now I understand why you had Tuilinn die while her relationship with Legolas was just beginning, and I'm impressed with your logic. Another reviewer of "A Spring of Joy" said that the ending of this story seemed a bit abrupt. It didn't seem that way to me because I have been following each chapter as you posted it and therefore I knew for days that Sinnarn was most likely gone. It was as though I and the other readers who followed this story as you posted it were experiencing the situation along with Thranduil and his family, who also had to wait for conclusive news. But perhaps people who read this story later on and who do not have to wait days for the final chapter will feel the abruptness that the other reviewer and your beta picked up on. Reading multi-chapter fan fictions in their entirety (as I have been doing with your older stories) is a very different experience from reading them as the author posts them. Finally, I have to tell you that I love the Wood-Elf funeral ritual. It's so appropriate to their culture that the ritual refers to the person who is gone as the son or daughter "of these woods." And the "he has no need for the shell" part is so very elfy. Lovely. Terribly sad, but lovely.

Small Triumphs · 31 May 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Wow, this was something I definitely did not expect. I hadn't even realized how much I liked Sinnarn until he died. :( So sad. I see why it was necessary, but it's still so very tragic. Poor Ithilden. What impressed me most about this chapter is Legolas' characterization. Throughout your stories, I have seen him evolve more into the elf he is in the books, yet for some reason, this just really ties it all together. Both your characters and plots weave so beautifully into the books, that they seem almost cannon to me. This really sets the stage for future events. I am definitely looking forward with future encounters with the Nazgul (though, hopefully, with less tragic results.) Beautiful is about all I can say to sum this up. ~Small Triumphs

Manderly · 31 May 2005 · Chapter 8: Facing Loss

Oh my, let me wipe my tears first before I start typing. What a heartbreaking chapter! I have been hoping against hope that Sinnarn might be spared, but I guess something like this is needed to ram home to the Wood Elves that the Shadow is back, and to harden Legolas' resolve to battle it. You have it well set up. My heart goes out to Ithilden and Alfirin. I cannot imagine a pain greater than losing a child. How will they cope with the loss? My admiration Thranduil has grown ten folds after reading this chapter. All the losses that he's suffered over the years and yet he somehow finds the strength to continue and to keep everything and everybody together. He is indeed King. Thank you for another wonderful story! Two stories in a row now that you have us weeping. Time for an elfling Legolas story with some Eilian silliness thrown in. We need some recovery time.