Reviews (175)

Alice · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Yay! You're back! I really missed reading new stories from you this summer. I'd come to Stories of Arda and look for Daw the Minstrel and kind of sigh when there was nothing there. This story seems like it has a lot of potential. Legolas is going with his daddy on a business trip! That's bound to be interesting. Nimloth seems very capable though, so hopefully Legolas won't get into too much trouble. Of course, we all know he's going to get into some. The family interaction is really sweet. I started college this weekend and I was doing all right on home sickness until I read this chapter. Family really is the center of your stories. I like that, because it's how life is also. It can't all be orc slaying and quest joining, no matter what Tolkien would have you believe. There were just a lot of really nice little moments in here, like the thing about the blankies and Legolas crawling into bed with Eilian and Eilian and Ithilden kind of snarking at each other. Hee. If I were Eilian, I'd so make fun of Ithilden for having a blankie too. Ithilden was great in this chapter by the way. I loved "he was sure he'd been much more sober when Eilian's age" thought. Of course Ithilden was more sober than Eilian. Ithilden was more sober than the adults who raised him well before he hit his majority. Eilian and Ithilden are good foils for each other. I like how both Ithilden and Legolas have gone into over-protective mode over the father. The lost one parent and they're not going to lose another. It's very understandable. And maybe I'm a bit too attached to these characters because I'm analyzing them like they're real people . So, I'm really glad you're back, even though I so totally think you writing original fiction is a great idea and really want you to get published so I can go and buy it and thereby have transportable Daw writing. I look forward to reading more cute Legolas as an elfling moments in the next chapter. Update soon!

meckinock · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

This is just what I needed. I missed Eilian! And the first segment was so warm and cozy I wanted to climb in to bed with Legolas and Eilian (no snorting, your Minstrelship!) Orc spit! I can't wait to see where that little gem comes up again. Eilian got what he deserved for forgetting Legolas's little stockings, though. He's so good with the little guy, despite being hung over. I so love the way the alternating POVs fill us in on everyone's gossipy little insights about each other. Legolas doesn't mind smelling wine on Eilian's breath, but Ada sometimes does! LOL. And a bored Eilian is a dangerous Eilian. And then there's this: But Legolas did not make the rules, and in the long run, he would be happier if he knew it. Good luck with that one, Thranduil. As I recall, that's a lesson that takes a long time sinking in. I like the way the warmth and humor are interwoven with the heavier tones - the loss of Lorellin is driving the family closer but there's an edge of fear - from Legolas wandering the halls doing bed checks at night (that's so sweet but so sad) to Ithilden ordering extra escorts for the king, their lives have changed and they're just beginning to come to terms with it. I am so looking forward to the upcoming trip.

Frodo3791 · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

You're back! I was so glad to see the story alert in my email a little bit ago. I've missed your stories a lot, and during those long stretches without anything new to read, I went back and read some of your other stories. You always make your stories so interesting. Due to the time in which this is taking place, I have a feeling we're going to have another angsty story on our hands. No problem. I like angst. I can't wait to see what's up next. Update soon. Blah... now to work on that dreaded homework I should have worked on earlier... -Micah

Kitty · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Great to see you back with a little Legolas story which happens to by favorite may i add! Can' t wait to see the trip as it will almost be like a family outing for Legolas.

thechevin · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Well this was such a lovely surprise I have missed your stories so much and it was a real treat to read too This family it seems are all in need of some TLC especially Legolas. His cold feet came as a surprise to Eilian and I suspect that his reaction will come as much of a surprise to Thranduil when Legolas repeats it! Will that be at the meeting with the villagers perhaps! I did like the idea of his comfort blanket and the care everyone took to make sure he had it with him when he needed it not to mention Ithilden's horror on finding his own blanket in the treasure box and Eilian's glee Eilian can do no right it seems in his family, except as far as his youngest brother is concerned where he can do no wrong. I thought the way Legolas managed to break the stalemate in the dining room was very much in keeping with two stubborn wills only prepared to bend for his needs. Thranduil is such a good father and is struggling so hard to keep his family together in this sad time I just wish he had someone to offer him the comfort he gives to others.

Alison H · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Yes, you're back! I was hoping that you would post your next story as the summer reached autumn--and this chapter has set the story up nicely. I just *love* little Legolas and Eilian together.The love they have for each other is so special and they both need that unconditional love now that their mother has gone.Yes, the cold feet was funny and I'm sure that Eilian will rue the day he said '"Orc spit"! I love the little touches you add to each character,how you explore the dynamics that exist between the brothers and their father and how Thranduil has the toughest, but most rewarding job of all--that of a single parent.What a hero he is! I do hope Eilian gets to go on the trip with the family.It would be very interesting for Legolas especially, to see his family away from the stronghold. Can't wait for the next chapter.Update soon! Ali.

Elena Tiriel · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

I have been suffering terribly from withDawal, and am thrilled to see you writing for us again! More Eilian, please! You can include more of those other secondary characters, too, if you must.... ;-D - Barbara, so happy to get a fix....

Yanic · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

It made me so happy to see a new story! And Legolas and Eilian's relationship is just too adorable. Putting his cold feet on his back, adorable! I know someone who does just the same thing. And the flashback Eilian had about ithilden's special blanket was priceless. Makes them seem more like a real family.

Socket · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Oh, it's so great to see you back with another story, Daw! I have really missed reading them. And a story about Little Legolas! I had this huge grin on my face when I got the e-mail. I love the way you create these realistic, touching relationships within the Thranduilion family, the tension between Ithilden and Eilian as their dual roles as brothers and commander-warrior conflict; Eilian the loving, if forgetful, caregiver of his younger brother; and Thranduil's struggles to raise his youngest as a single parent, torn between a desire to discipline and his pity for the struggling, fearful Legolas. There's always so much going in your stories, I can read them over and over again (and I do!). And I love the humor you inject into the story -- the image of Legolas tasting his porridge as if it were a vintage of wine; Eilian realizing that he's naked under the sheets and possibly the view of Nimloth; the triumphant look that Elian gives his father when he's able to eat breakfast. Those moments go quite far in making your stories so enjoyable. I did have some problems figuring out the timeline at the end of this story -- I think that, without your comment, I might have not known on the first reading that we had shifted back some years. Not a major problem, but I thought I'd pass it on, since you had asked about it. Thanks for feeding my addition again! Can't wait for the next chapter. I think it will be great for Legolas to take a journey with his father and Ithilden, and I'm sure you're setting up another exciting adventure for the family.

Kat · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Great first chapter. I almost cried though for poor Legolas... You really make the audience feel for him. Keep up the good work, I can't wait to read more.

Manderly · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

How wonderful to see a story from you, Daw! I've been waiting for a new story from you for months, it seems, so I actually cheered to see this popping up. Better still, it's a young Legolas story! This first chapter was wonderfully written with such a mix of emotions that reflected perfectly the state of the family - healing, but still on edge that a simple thing can retrigger the raw feelings of grief. The little scene at the beginning between Legolas and Eilian was simply precious, but the thought of the little elfling wandering the halls at night checking on his family is rather heartbreaking. Orc's spit! Somehow I get the feeling that Legolas will be blurting this out at some point, within Ada's hearing. I hope Ithilden relents and allows Eilian join the guards. I would be wonderful to see the entire family heading out on this trip.

The Karenator · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

I have to admit I've missed your Legolas stories. I'm so excited to see this! And it's such a delightful beginning. Eilian is feeling pretty rough, but there's nothing like a little brother's cold feet to jolt you awake in the middle of the night. I loved that Legolas didn't mind that Eilian smelled a tad like spoiled grapes, but Legolas knew that Ada would most likely disapprove. Such unconditional love. And Eilian is naked. Thought I'd mention that in case anyone missed it. The blanket is a nice reoccurring bit. I can see the little guy hanging on to his 'blanky' no matter how ragged and gross it gets. BTW, I still have my oldest son's blanky too. My youngest didn't get as attached to one as the oldest. I did save one of his too, but it's not as 'loved'. I got a kick out of Lorellin saving her sons' special baby things. Ithilden is, of course, mortified. He came into the world far too serious to admit to ever having been a child. Gee, didn't breakfast turn out to be fun? Eilian wasn't sure if his stomach was going to rebel or not and Legolas went off the deep end when he found out about his Ada's trip. Don't you hate it when that happens? I felt terrible for poor little Legolas. He was beginning to rejoin the living when this bombshell was dropped on him. He's back to suffering separation anxiety again and Thranduil's not left yet. Thranduil has a fine line to thread with giving Legolas structure and discipline and staying tuned in to the little one's needs. It's hard to know where that line is sometimes since it's constantly shifting even under normal circumstances. Nimloth's idea for Legolas to accompany Thranduil is intriguing. I have a feeling things won't go as smoothly as she thinks it will. And no family meal would be complete without Ithilden and Eilian going at it, butting heads and trying to navigate their own shifting line of commander and warrior. Makes my head hurt to trying to figure it out. You did such a good job of changing the tone with each POV. The beginning is on the level of a child, but the adult voices were distinctly different and unique to each character. I enjoyed following that nearly as much as the story. Very well done, your minstrelness. Can't wait for the next chapter. Glad to see you back in Mirkwood. Karen

Lianna · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Great to see that you're back! And that you've set this story at such an interesting point in time. There's something particularly interesting about seeing Thranduil learning to cope with being a single parent -- and not just to Legolas but to his grown sons as well. Poor Maltanaur, though. I know that he has to recover, but at the moment, things don't look good. I assume that he is not in immediate danger of dying because wild wargs wouldn't be able to drag Eilian out of the infirmary in that situation, so I suspect that the problem here is that Maltanaur's injuries might leave him with a permanent disability that could make it impossible for him to return to duty. If that's what you have in mind, it's going to be interesting. With the long lifespans of elves and the dangers of their lives, there must be at least a few elves walking (hobbling?) around with permanent impairments. I've long wondered how their culture deals with disability. Tolkien didn't really get into that.

Jay of Lasgalen · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

How great to see a new story from you! I've missed Eilian and Ithilden, and the bodyguards. What on earth happened to Maltanaur?? The news from the infirmary sounds bad. We know he survives, and stays with Eilian, but it sounds very uncertain at the moment. Poor Ithilden, assigning himself as Thranduil's guard. He's not going to trust his father's safety to anyone else just yet, is he? And now Legolas is going, and Eilian wants to go - it doesn't seem a good idea to have the entire royal family off like this.

Bodkin · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Poor Eilian. He makes a rod for his own back all the time. In more ways than one, I suspect. Not just the drinking and the settlement girlfriend as obstinate as he is and the restlessness and the open defiance of his brother - but I have a sneaking suspicion that he is guilty of placing Maltanaur in the position where he was injured. And yet - Eilian's good qualities are just so good and Thranduil and Ithilden barely seem to acknowledge them in their irritation. Who does Legolas tend to go to when he needs support and warmth? Eilian. And yet, when the inevitable 'orc spit' is spoken, what will be noticed? The words - or the fact that Legolas was able to comfort himself with his brother's presence and sink into the unquestioning care offered him? But this is such a difficult situation for Thranduil. He is right that the elfling needs to have a routine and to feel a gentle authority - but Legolas needs flexibility too, especially now, when he is facing the first real threat to his very shaky security. And if Ithilden feels the need to come along, why should the youngest member of the family not feel the same? Good for Nimloth - her offer gave Thranduil a way of keeping the elfling by his side. There are some totally delightful moments here - Ithilden's embarrassment at discovering that his naneth was still treasuring his blanket. Eilian's amusement at the same. (I'll bet Eilian didn't need a blanket. Different sort of elfling!) The picture of solid, authoritative, troop commander Ithilden being big brotherly enought to shout the traditional 'Grow up!' at Eilian. Legolas tasting the vintage of the porridge. Legolas waking his brother with the application of freezing feet. It's a terrific set up. I can't wait to learn more.

pipinheart · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Little Legolas has lost his mother, and has his little blanket around...I like the two older brothers they seem to have conflicts between each other...

Joee · 18 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Hurrah! You're back, and with a little Legolas story too. Aww, I love young Eilian, he's so fun and unpredictable (and unattached!). Great start, please update soon =)

French Pony · 18 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Awright! Back in the saddle again. I can't make this too long, because I have to get up and be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for a conference session at eight tomorrow morning (how people can talk in a scholarly fashion about the Holocaust at eight in the morning is beyond me), but I can at least leave a little note. I love the way Legolas goes straight for Eilian's room when he wakes up in the night. And the way that Eilian just turns over and accepts him in, cold feet and all. Those two have always been close, and that scene is one of those special little moments that shows it. And now it's Maltanaur's turn to take the bullet for his principal. I think he's the last keeper to be seen actually doing that, so good for him. I hope Thranduil pays him well for his job. Bodyguarding isn't easy at the best of times, and guarding young Eilian is probably doubly difficult. I kind of like the idea of the whole family going off on this business trip together. I suspect that they'd kind of like it, too. They seem pretty fragile still, and being together will be good for them. And good for Nimloth, offering to come along. Sounds like she has the problem of a wife whose husband has suddenly retired and feels the need to "help" out at home more often. I would agree with Ithilden that he was more sober than Eilian when he was 70, but I don't think he ever was 70. He's the sort who was born 347.

Wendy · 18 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Aaaaah, bliss! I was sitting down doing bills and thought "Let me take a break and see what's up at Stories of Arda." Not only did I find a new story, but it's by my favorite author! Thanks for making my evening. The story is off to a great start and I look forward to learning more about this period in the family's life. Wendy

Karri · 18 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Woot! A little Legolas story! I have not been reading much fanfic of late, but 'tis a pleasure to read this. :-)

Purplesmackers · 18 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Yea! You are back! I had to do a double look when I saw the story posted...just to make sure my eyes were not playing tricks on me! I missed your stories, and I am glad to see you back! Anywho, I have loved all the younger Legolas stories thus far, and I do not think this one will be any different. If I am thinking correctly, this is the third story about this time period in Legolas' life. I love the insight of how each character has dealt with this particular time period of the aftermath of their mother's/wife's death. I think this has been the first time that we have seen Thranduil mention the bitterness of his wife not waiting for the escort. I was always curious about his feelings on that. Thus far, I love the direction the story is going. I am looking forward to seeing this story develope. Once again, welcome back! You were missed! :)

Rose Sared · 18 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Phew, relieved sigh, daw is back with another vintage tale - how comforting. I think the thing I like about your stories is the company that it allows me to keep. I find myself missing all your characters when you are not writing, and even worrying about them - What mess has Elian got himself into, will Legolas ever get over his insecurities? It is sad really, I should get a life! Nice feeling to know I will be able to spend several hours enjoying the family over the next few weeks. You haven't lost your touch Rose.

Nilmandra · 18 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

I was thinking as I read this how hard it must be for a parent to discipline a child who is ill or disabled in some way, or re-establish discipline after a major event like Legolas has lived through. They need to be gently cared for and coaxed along the path to healing, but it can be too easy to spoil or give in. A parent really has to know the child to know where the fine line is and know what battles to fight. This is a good one, and I like this line: But Legolas did not make the rules, and in the long run, he would be happier if he knew it. How true that is for all of us! But, I rather look forward to the trip and seeing at what inopportune time Legolas regales his father with his use of 'orc spit'. :D

LOTRFaith · 18 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Horray! A little Legolas story... :-) Awww and it's sad one too :-( lol.. I would love to tell Eilian to grow up as well. "I'm bored!" I find it rather insane to go from a story when Eilian has matured and married, to one where he is still very immature and childish. But I am glad you are back!! :-)

elliska · 18 September 2005 · Chapter 1: At Home

Oh hooray! A new story! This is obviously a very interesting time in their lives too, with Eilian less than perfectly balanced and Legolas so nervous. I laughed out loud when he shoved his cold little feet on Eilian's back. And the Orc spit exchange was great. (So was the implication that Eilian had discovered the secret of Ithilden's blankie!) But poor Legolas finding out about Thranduil's trip in such a way. I wonder if Nimloth will regret her offer (or if Thranduil will regret accepting it). And poor Eilian and Ithilden--Eilian's early days as a warrior were hard on them both. And what had happened to Maltanuar?! This looks great Daw! I'm sooo happy to see it.