Legolas and the Bad Man by Nilmandra

Reviews (26)

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Winterwitch · 5 May 2013 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

What a sweet, lovely story! Your young Legolas is a delight, as are your original characters, and this episode is just perfect. ♥ Thank you for this lovely read.

nancylea57 · 8 January 2009 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

yes, it might be hard in five or six years to explain why you named a puppy bad man.

Author's reply

Yes, but it would make for an interesting story for years to come. :>)

nautika · 14 January 2007 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

This was my favorite of the 5 stories of yours I read today. I have now printed out the story that started it all, 'May the Valar Protect Them'. I hope I have some ink left because this was a brand new cartridge! I'm so glad to have found another excellent writer to follow!

Author's reply

The others that I think you read were about Daw's characters, whereas this one is about mine. Always easier to write in your 'own' world! I am glad you liked it. Little Leg'les is near and dear to my heart too. :D

Mandy · 20 May 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

What a lovely little story. Thanks!

Author's reply

Glad you liked it :D

perelleth · 5 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

Oh, this was wonderful, Nilmandra, and just kind of what I was needing to read! I apologize for the delay in reviewing, but I haven't been well as of late, among other things, so I'm quite behind of things. This elfling Legolas is great fun! His logic is perfect, and he is truly a bundle of energy and hapiness. It is good to see him so carefree after all!. I also like how he trusts Tathiel, and all the rest around him. I suppose one can forgive him for his bad experiences regarding men! A nice walk into your Mirkwood universe!

Author's reply

*blushes* And you thought you were behind! WRiting little Legolas is always fun. he is adorable.. I need to grow him up to adulthood, I think.

Mum's the Word · 27 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

What a wonderful story! I always love the close Thranduil family photos that you bring to us. An excellent job, Nilmandra! (And *tiny squee* I helped inspire a Nilmandra story!) Hugs and blessings, Mum

Author's reply

LOL, see you never know what sending a picture can do. I know artists inspired by a story; but writers are inspired by pictures too!

rivergirl · 23 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

I love your Legolas/Tathiel world, and this was an utterly sweet and charming addition. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing it!

Author's reply

thanks, rivergirl, I am glad you enjoyed it!

The Karenator · 22 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

Happy Birthday, Karri! What a delightful tale. Nice gift! The whole story was fun, but I think my favorite parts were when Legolas told Tamil he was going to tell his ada on him if he hurt Tathiel, Legolas warming the puppies in Tathiel's cloak, and BRAVE! Tathiel for going after the missing pup. I'd have done the same thing...only no elves would have rescued me and I'd probably still be at the bottom of the ravine. Oh...and I got all warm and fuzzy when Tamiel 'checked out' the puppy. Poor little baby. And poor Bregolas. He's got to sit through court all afternoon. I'm sure Legolas would consider it a small sacrifice. Adorable, Nilmandra. Just adorable. Karen

Author's reply

The whole story was fun, but I think my favorite parts were when Legolas told Tamil he was going to tell his ada on him if he hurt Tathiel Legolas knows exactly who the most powerful person in his world is! And of course Tathiel saved the puppies - I hear she's off to fight Sauron next and prevent the need for the Quest :D

LKK · 21 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

This was darling, Nilmandra. I'm sure Karri loved her birthday present. Your young Legolas is so adorable. Mix in some equally cute puppies and you have an unbeatable combination.

Author's reply

Thanks, LKK. These bits of fun and fluff are great fun to write. :D

Manderly · 21 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

Such a delightful and sweet tale of little Legolas! I am glad Legolas has overcome his fear of Tamil. The puppies really deserve credit for that, and Tamil himself too, of course. Elflings and puppies - they really go hand in hand. Thank you for giving us another glimpse into this elfling's life.

Author's reply

Writing little Legolas is such a joy - he is like a breath of fresh air. Thanks for reading!

Kitty · 21 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

That was a wonderful story to begin my day at work with! (I know, I'm a bad girl!) I love little Legolas, and here he was so cute! I'm sure he has every elf in the Woodland Realm firmly wrapped around his little finger! Warrior Legolas *snicker* Anyway, the question about the outcome of the unfortunate incident between Legolas and Tamil was something I had sometimes wondered about, so I was very pleased to see this. I am glad Tathiel was able to save the little pup, although I am sorry to know she hurt her ankle. But I see, it was necessary to get Legolas into action and all ;-) He was so cute when he tried to convince the puppy to stay back! And he was so very brave when he met Tamil and tried to hold him up and to get help for Tathiel at the same time. As for Tamil, he did a great job in this, always mindful of Legolas and his fear of men, trying to help Tathiel without frightening the elfling. It should help very much to convince Legolas not all men are bad. And the end ... *giggle* ... Thranduil knows how to deal with conspiring sons, does he? Poor Bregolas! But I suppose he will gladly handle the court as long as his little brother gets his adored puppy, being the wonderful brother he is. Although - "She sleeps in the stable." - why don't I believe this? At least not for very long? ;-) So the puppy is named Tamil? Tamil the healer should be honoured! I think it is a sure sign that Legolas is over his fear and now sees him as a good man! Thank you, that was a wonderful fic!

Author's reply

LOL, I doubt that pup slept in the stable for long! Can you see Legolas's siblings conspiring to sneak the puppy into his room? Poor Thranduil - he can't win against Legolas's smiles when he has such conspirators.

Lady Saruman · 21 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

What a great story! Today I was stuck in my home (which happens to be homework piled up in a tall mountain),and I was struggling to finish it. Today is still Monday, Presidents' Day, and so there was no school. I was all stressed out, and I went on this website to see if I could find anything that we give me a good laugh. My eyes happened to fall on your story, and apparently anything that has the word 'Legolas' in it is sure to have my attention. Then I saw the 'Bad Man' part, and I knew this was going to be interesting. And so, I read it, laughing through the end. My favorite part was when Legolas eats lunch with his brother and father, and has a conversation with them that ends up with this really funny and unexpected quote: Thranduil grimaced at Bregolas, preparing to blame him, then he smiled as a better idea occurred to him. “I believe I will take you, Legolas. Bregolas, you may handle court this afternoon.” Bregolas groaned and buried his head in his arms. Thranduil leaned over and patted him on the shoulder. “That is what you get for conspiring with elflings. Have a good afternoon. Come, Legolas!” That was too funny! Whoever would have thought that Thranduil would have had humor and love for things other than treasures if you hadn't written this story? J.R.R. Tolkien always described Thranduil as an elven-king who cared about treasures more than other things. But, thankfully, he lusts for treasure at a less extent than Oropher himself. But, thank goodness Legolas isn't like either one of them! I would have died if he was. Haha, the puppy was named Tamil. Nobody would have expected that. Legolas always referred him as 'the bad man' in his head, and he changes his mind when he discovers that Tamil was a good man. I agree with elliska--when Legolas yelled for his brother that there was a bad man, he probably had a heart attack--then he discovers that the 'bad man' was actually Tamil. And a neat little conclusion to your story--Tathiel's confusion about namesakes, and then finally concluding that calling the puppy 'Tamil' was better than either one of them 'bad man'. Great story! You just made my day! And Karri's! Thank you! Hershey's hugs/kisses, The Lady of Isengard *grins, winks* ^_~ P.S. Since you said that the words on my website were hard to read, then what color would you recommend my words to be? And I NEVER get enough sleep these days. I look like this now: >_< Thanks again, L.S. ^_^

Author's reply

That was too funny! Whoever would have thought that Thranduil would have had humor and love for things other than treasures if you hadn't written this story? J.R.R. Tolkien always described Thranduil as an elven-king who cared about treasures more than other things. But, thankfully, he lusts for treasure at a less extent than Oropher himself. Ah, you are caught in the web of 'fanon' - that is how some fanfiction writers have portrayed Thranduil, but Tolkien did not. Remember too that the Hobbit is written from the POV of Bilbo and the Dwarves... the Elves may tell a different side of the story. Thranduil liked jewels, yes, but he did not go to war over them. But the Elvenking said: "Long will I tarry, ere I begin this war for gold. The dwarves cannot press us, unless we will, or do anything that we cannot mark. Let us hope still for something that will bring reconciliation. Our advantage in numbers will be enough, if in the end it must come to unhappy blows." As for the words.. I am not sure any color would help over the dark pictures. You might need to create a place for the words on a white or other light background and have the pictures around that area.

Bodkin · 21 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

What a delight. I just love your Legolas / Tathiel world and crave more of it. And it would almost be worth admitting to birthdays to inspire tales like this! (Happy birthday, Karri.) Legolas is such a gorgeous elfling - surrounded by people who care for him, but don't over-indulge him. (That must be really difficult at times, considering his start in life!) But then, that start has made him everyone's elfling in a way that he wouldn't normally have been. And Tathiel is the mother - there's no way she could leave that puppy. Tamil is a good example of Man with a capital M, too. Despite what is happening, he is very careful to do his best to avoid frightening Legolas - brings himself down to the elfling's level and speaks softly. But, of course, he cannot leave Tathiel in possible danger - he is a Good Man and has to head to the rescue. Love the way the whole lot of them storm to the rescue - and Camnestra and Tathiel letting Tamil help her, because it was good for Legolas to see that. Even in moments of panic, these elves are able to think about what is best for their little one. (Advantages to added years!) And of course Legolas and Bregolas would win over the puppy - which will be under Thranduil's feet in no time. I'm sure Bregolas doesn't mind (much) getting stuck with holding court if it means that his adar and Legolas can spend more time together. And, in Legolas's mind, there could be no greater compliment than calling the dog after Tamil. Lovely story. I hope to be back in Mirkwood with Legolas and Tathiel soon!

Author's reply

Birthday tales are fun! Not much plot needed, just a scene of your choosing. :D The ice floes and bridge comes from actual experience a few years ago - my office window looks out over St. Anthony Falls on the Mississippi - a stunning view - and in either 99 or '01 we had tremendous amounts of ice in the high waters. We'd watch the floes jam against the bridge pillars and then heave through. Awe inspiring. The banks of the river were quite changed due to the debris and sheer force of the water and ice.

Gwynhyffar · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

This was so cute. I really liked Tathiel making Legolas repeat back that he understood and was going. That seems like something important to do when trying to get a little one to do something important that they can't be sidetracked from. I laughed at Bregolas and Legolas blindsiding Thranduil into keeping the puppy. He could hardly say no when faced with that! Of course, Bregolas got what he deserved as well.

Author's reply

Of course, Bregolas got what he deserved as well. It occured to me when writing a young Estel story how easy it must be for these long lived elves, where easily a century can separate siblings, to all act like parents to the youngsters. Worse for little Legolas, I have made him the youngest of a bunch of older siblings, which means he has the potential for many naneths and adars. So, Bregolas was merely trying to be his brother on this day. (and besides, the puppy was really cute :D)

daw the minstrel · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

This was a true pleasure to read. In some ways, it was a small event, but it's the kind of thing that added up over the years and turned Legolas into the person he became. Tathiel, Bregolas, Thranduil, and everyone else who cared for him watched over him with love and intelligent attention. So how long will it be before the puppy is sleeping in Legolas's bed?

Author's reply

So how long will it be before the puppy is sleeping in Legolas's bed? About as long as it took for Nani the pup to sleep on my bed. :/

Karri · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

*claps* That is very sweet! :-) Thank you!

Author's reply

You are very welcome... Happy Birthday :>)

Kathy_SFF · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

This may have a b-day present, but this reader says thanks for a wonderful story.

Author's reply

You're welcome.. glad you enjoyed it. :)

Fyroni · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

That made my day! I love this universe that you have created! I am highly excited to see yet another story for it! I am also really happy to see some resolution for the situation between Tamil and Legolas. I love all that you create, and I have my fingers crossed for more stories within this universe! Also, HAPPY BIRTHDAY Karri! What a great present....a great story!

Author's reply

It is fun to write in this world, now that Legolas is safe at home. Glad you enjoyed it. :D

Dot · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

I have the biggest grin on my face! Thanks must go to Karri for such a good choice :-) She's sure to enjoy this. I love the interaction between Legolas and the guard! Hilarious. So dignified, and then “Bye Hathor!” You made me smile with the image of Legolas in Tathiel’s arms, staring in fascination at the river. And it’s ok to be a little scared, because even Bregolas is ;-) And it seems Bregolas wants a puppy! LOL. He must be too afraid of Thranduil to ask him and needs Legolas’ help… I so love the little bits of the relationship we see between Thranduil’s oldest and youngest sons. Ack. The poor puppies. The mother is very brave. And Tathiel, being Tathiel, goes to the aid of the helpless. I was so afraid for a second that something worse had happened to her. There’s something very sweet about the puppy following Legolas like that – and him trying to be stern with it! But crikey, even though I knew Tamil was going to make an appearance, my heart still jumped when Legolas ran into him. I could really feel Legolas’ fear and indecision. I think Ada and Bregolas would be fairly proud of his protectiveness towards Tathiel, though, even despite the fact that he’s mistaken about Tamil. I know I should be thinking about the shock Bregolas must have got and feeling sorry for an unhappy Legolas – but I was so tickled by the fact that so many elves raced off to help her! It’s really amusing, and it also shows how dear she is to so many of them. Bregolas, of course, is very perceptive to realise what has really upset his little brother. I really like Tamil, actually. He’s so patient. And I particularly love that Camnesta and Tathiel allow him to do what will help him win Legolas’ trust because they know it’s best for their beloved elfling. I think I actually sighed aloud with relief when Legolas agreed to help him – and especially when he allowed Tamil to pick him up later. Ada will be pleased too, though it may take longer for him to trust that he won’t see Legolas upset than for Legolas to accept Tamil! I hope we see more of Rawien and Tathiel some day. I’m not sure Bregolas makes a very good diplomat! But then, Ada seems to have given in… I love that Thranduil goes off with Legolas – and finds a suitable punishment for poor Bregolas! And Legolas names the puppy Tamil!! What a perfect ending to a wonderful story :-D

Author's reply

Camnesta has been looking forward to this encounter - he wanted to introduce Tamil and Legolas long ago, but neither Tathiel nor Thranduil was ready for that. They were as traumatized as poor Legolas the last time! I like the idea that elves cared so deeply for their children - not that they overly indulged them, but they took great care to ensure they grew up loved and with well cultivated minds and hearts. And now Legolas has gone from fearing men to liking them.. which helps set the stage for the adult we want him to become. Glad you like it... already started on yours :D

Raksha The Demon · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

This is extremely cute! Of course, I'd say that about any story featuring puppies, but this one has Cute!Little!Legolas! too. Why would the stable-master have allowed the mother hound to just take off with her young and physically helpless and foolish puppies? It's sort of an invitation to disaster, since puppies under ten weeks or so (which is the age these pups seem to be) would be kept in a den by a wild (wolf or dog) mother; and in an enclosed space by a responsible dog breeder. Unless the pups were three or four months old, and I missed that...That's the only thing I question in an otherwise delightful tale, and it's a very small detail. I would have liked to see a bit more physical description of the mother and puppies; but possibly, to Cute!Little!Legolas!at that age, the critters are just puppies and dogs and he doesn't extrapolate on their coloring and shape, etc. The picture that inspired the story was absolutely precious. I would dispute the breed of dogs that the artist chose, but that has little to do with your writing of the story. Feel free to write a sequel with an adventure of Cute!Little!Legolas! and Puppy Tamil.

Author's reply

All valid criticisms - we do not see the dog's story nor know anything about how dogs are bred and cared for in the Woodland Realm. But then, they were a plot device - Legolas and Tamil were the main point of the story. But who can resist a puppy, after all? I loved the picture! I have no idea what sort of hounds would have been present in M-e, but my own 5 month old lab/husky mix is inspiration for some of the behaviors. :>)

elliska · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

What a wonderful story! Little Legolas is just adorable. I think I was a worried about the puppies and mother dog as he was. And finding Tamil of all people at that moment. Poor thing. Bregolas must have had a heart attack until he figured out the bad man was only Tamil. But my favorite part was this: “I believe I will take you, Legolas. Bregolas, you may handle court this afternoon.” Hehehe! I love Thranduil. I loved this story (and thanks for sharing the picture link too--very nice!)

Author's reply

I have to tell you, I was thinking of your two characters, Galithil's brother and his brother's wife, having their discussion about a brother's job. LOL, my Elladan felt that way about Estel too - they are supposed to aid and abet little brothers, to a point anyway. :D But Thranduil proves why he is ada... and king. He can delegate!

JastaElf · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

Oh, that is so wonderful! I was just re-reading the other stories in this arc only yesterday, and enjoying them afresh--they hold up so beautifully!--and was wondering if there would be a story someday featuring Tamil... and suddenly there is! Thank you so much! {{{hugs}}} it is a grand tale, and the pic from the art site is just, oh my goodness, GORGEOUS! :-) Lovely picture, lovely story, and I almost hurt myself laughing when Legolas named his puppy Tamil.... *g* what a Nice Man! And Happy Birthday Karri!

Author's reply

I decided that Thranduil had a wicked sense of humor to allow Legolas to name his puppy Tamil! This was fun to write - little Legolas is such a bundle of joy. And I loved that picture! The little prince's face looked so elvish... and the puppies at his side adorable. IT was too good to pass up. :D Thanks for the review!

runnerbeast · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

I so needed a good dog story today and this was just the one! It was just wonderful. I really liked the turn around with Legolas' feelings toward Tamil. I also enjoyed Tathiel's bravery in the whole situation, her embarrassment with her whole predicament, and everyone's care and concern over her. Thank you for a great read.

Author's reply

I could also have named this Tathiel's no good, rotten day. Here she is trying to do a good thing and ends up coated in mud, in need of rescue, ruining her cloak, and being generally embarrassed. But, she did get Legolas his puppy which I am sure will not be sleeping in the stable

Jay of Lasgalen · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

Ah. This is very sweet. I love little Legolas's name for the mother dog, and of course Thranduil had to allow him to keep one of the puppies! I must admit I don't remember Tamil, so will have to go back and read Journey's End again. I like Tathiel, though - is she the one accused of being a Mary Sue? Happy birthday, Karri! Jay

Author's reply

I must admit I don't remember Tamil Heh - neither did I! I quickly figured it out, but had to go look up the human healer's name from JE to know for sure. Karri is good. I like Tathiel, though - is she the one accused of being a Mary Sue? LOL, yes. She didn't manage to save M-e, but she did save a puppy. ;0)

lwarren · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 1: Legolas and the Bad Man

I have always loved your 'little Legolas' stories - you portray him as a child so well...and I love the whole family, from Bregolas to Lathron to Rawain and Tathiel. I was so excited to see that Legolas was going to see Tamil again and learn that he wasn't a 'bad man'. This was just excellent, right from the start when 'Warrior Legolas' reports his errand to Hathor, up until he and Bregolas persuade Ada that the puppy is just right for them. And of course, Ada takes care of his conspiring older son just perfectly! LOL A wonderful little story - got any more up your sleeve???? :-) linda (the art that inspired you was beautifully done, too!)

Author's reply

A wonderful little story - got any more up your sleeve? Actually, yes, LOL. It will be posted next weekend, should things go according to plan. :D Glad you liked this - writing a joyful child is such a delight after spending so much time being melancholy about the rings and the end of the age. :/