Reviews (20)

nancylea57 · 8 January 2009 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

nautika · 17 January 2007 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

I loved this story, especially the interaction between the brothers and the way Thranduil and Bregolas stood when she said "No, Adar." But where did Emlin come from? Okay, I know where she came from, but what story deals with her birth? How did I miss that?

Nayru · 7 April 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

Hello Nilmandra! I've read this little fic. for so long but never have left a review. It is awesome and well, simply I just love it! Keep it up! Each time I read a fic. of yours I'm impressed. Hanon le for the joy you give Nayru

lwarren · 9 March 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

I had been rereading "May the Valar Protect Them" and was majorly excited to see this story (but then I'm always excited to see any of your stories, so...there you have it!) Lathron has to be my favorite of your own characters, and to see him finally decide that Tinania is old enough for him to declare himself was wonderful. I grinned and giggled (at Legolas) the whole way through the story - until Tinania said, "No"...then had to laugh at this wonderful elleth who seems well able to keep Lathron on his toes! Then I walked around with a silly smile on my face for the rest of the day...not even my wild children here at school could wipe it off (they send their thanks, by the way, for putting me in a good mood! LOL). Wonderful story, Nilmandra...so what's with Bregolas letting little brother get the jump on him? (And 'Duil, too!) Linda

perelleth · 5 March 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

Ha! All or nothing! This Lathron was very amusing in his indecision and nervouness, yet I feared he would collapse when she said "No!" A very entertaining story, I am surpirsed that no one seemed to prod the crown prince about being surpassed by his younger brother in that particular task.. :-)

Kitty · 2 March 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

I loved the conversation between the two brothers in the beginning. And little Legolas is so adorable! His appearance and the interaction with his brothers was so much fun! Whole pack of females *snicker* I wonder which exasperated male he has overheard! The ceremony was beautiful described! I had guessed already that Lathron and Tinánia probably loved each other, and it’s good to know how this continues. I would've loved to see the shocked faces when Tinánia told her father 'no' in the beginning! *grin* Well, the betrothal is much better, of course, and I am very glad for them, as I came to love both of them in the earlier fics. And Legolas took it quite well that Tinánia will be his sister-in-law instead of his wife. On the other hand, if he had insisted that Tinánia was his, little Emlin would’ve probably given him a piece of her mind!

Lianna · 28 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

Oh, how nice! Mirkwood's two most unconventional young people are going to marry each other. Sounds like a great idea. I love the way that Lathron and Tinania's minds touched when they kissed. It's good to have reminders that they are elves, after all, and that what they're going to share is very special. It's nice to see Legolas have an almost-sister in Emlin. The two of them remind me of my own son and daughter when they were little. My two are three years apart in age, and the boy is the older one. Until my daughter was about seven or eight, she thought that her brother was the most interesting creature in the world, and he loved the attention. I think you got the dynamic between Legolas and Emlin exactly right.

Mum's the Word · 27 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

*sighs happily* *can't think of anything profound* *can't stop smiling* *sighs again* Thank you, dear Nilmandra. Blessings, Mum

Ellie · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

This was so wonderful! What a great, warm fuzzy, romantic little tale. Bravo. Well done.

elliska · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

What a great night! I was so happy to come home to all this great reading. I really loved this. “She is young yet. I should wait, allow her more time, allow other suitors to ask permission to court her.” “Are you blind?” snorted Bregolas. “Has this wind blown away your good sense?” That is a great interchange. I can so see these two having this conversation. And Legolas's feelings! Too funny, especially given Legolas's reaction at the end. Speaking of Legolas, he was too cute in this. I especially liked his reaction to the circlet. That was great. And 'pack of females' contrasted well with Legolas's ability to behave properly when he had to. But obviously my favorite part was when Lathron asked to court Tinánia. You really got me with her response! I was absolutely not expecting that. But I loved how it turned out. Before she could speak, Lathron held out his hand to her. She took it, and felt what he offered. She reached out her other hand and took his, and his breath caught in shock and delight when he felt what she held there. Well done! I am one of those silly people that cry at weddings, and you got me going with that whole scene. Loved it. I really like your Mirkwood world and I have enjoyed two stories in quick succession from it. And again, Happy Birthday Dot!

Jay of Lasgalen · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

Little Legolas is just adorable in this - I love his exasperation that a 'pack of females' is after him! Where did he learn such an expression? A time will come one day when he might not be quite so reluctant :) I liked the moment when Tinania refused Lathron's bid to court her. What a shock that must have been for the onlookers! I love the certainty of their love, even if it seems a little 'hasty', as Treebeard might say. Thranduil, of course, is as Kingly and wonderful as ever. I do love it when you write about him. Lucky Dot to have two such wonderful stories for her birthday! Jay

French Pony · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

Lathron marries. . . Tinania! So that's where you got the name! I think I do need to find time to sit down and read more of your Greenwood stories. (For that matter, I have to find time to catch up on History Lessons. Ha.) I love all of the bustling and rumbling around. These ceremonies -- coming-of-age and betrothal -- always seem like they ought to be so calm and cool and controlled. But what I love here is that you see all of the flurry and improvisation and misbehavior that always gets in the way of things. It breathes life into what could easily be a staid, formal event.

Karri · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

Oh, that was jsut lovely! Perfect! *claps* *squeals with delight* *begs for more Mirkwood stories*

Dot · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

Woo-hoo!! You made me so happy today, Nilmandra. I can’t believe you posted it so that I’d have it this morning! Thank you for such lovely words and for this WONDERFUL gift :-) I admit I got a little shiver of delight when I saw the title! And I’m still smiling at the opening scene. Did I mention how much I love the two brothers together…?! I was glad Bregolas was there to give Lathron a little push. I love seeing him in love, and his concern for Tinánia’s feelings is really touching – but the guy thinks too much!! LOL at the fact that everyone knows, and Lathron – normally so in tune to what others feel – has no idea. I actually particularly like Bregolas straightening Lathron’s hair and collar and putting the finishing touches to his outfit. There’s such closeness there, and it shows his love, respect and support for his brother. Yet he still has time to reach out and catch a golden bundle of elfling! Legolas is as funny as ever. He must provide so much entertainment. […] then suddenly a whole pack of females was after me.” ROTFL!! Really now, where did he get that from?? I get the impression Bregolas might adopt it when he is certain there are no females around to admonish him ;-) So Legolas is still looking for a sword?! Well, at least he’s old enough for a circlet. I bet he looks adorable. I love that little moment when Bregolas smiles at Lathron. I think he would be pleased to have his older brother behind him, but Bregolas is right that Lathron will do what he has decided when the time comes. At least, I was really hoping he would… I don’t think I’ve read a coming-of-age ceremony for a female before so this was fascinating. You write traditions like this so well. And for Tinánia, I love the idea that she would be given a bow and quiver and the song shows the pride the realm has in this unassuming but skilled and brave young woman. I could really feel the desire between her and Lathron too. I’m still smiling at his reaction to seeing her, as Legolas so eloquently puts it, looking like a grown-up. You made me laugh when Legolas sighs at the thought that she won’t be as much fun any more. I hadn’t realised she would be accepted as a novice warrior now too. That was a lovely addition to the ceremony, and more special because it’s so rare as part of a female’s ceremony. And it seems they’re still teasing her about shooting Bregolas! But there’s such sincerity when he says that they’re proud to train her and fight with her – it seems more than just traditional words. What a fantastic moment when Lathron comes and stands before Urithral! And then, “No, Adar,” replied Tinánia firmly. LOL! I nearly fell off my chair. I was actually thrilled that Tinánia managed to shock Lathron by having a ring too. See, you didn’t need to wait, Lathron! Of course, in between laughing and cheering, I did feel a little sorry for the parents before they realised what was happening ;-) I love the moment between Lathron and Tinánia where they feel the beginning of their bond. And everyone seems so completely delighted that I can’t stop grinning!! It’s very fitting too that these two families have an official link too, apart from the bonds of love and sacrifice between them all. “Lathron, you kissed her!” That made me laugh. Poor Legolas. I think he’ll recover, though. Emlin is so sweet and is enough to keep him distracted, whether or not it’s just for now. Thranduil, of course, has realised the one problem with choosing this time to become betrothed! But I imagine most people will be forgiving if Tinánia wanders off a little early :-) I’m trying to decide who I’d like best as a chaperone… Bregolas would be more easy-going. But then he’d tease relentlessly… I loved this story so much, Nilmandra. Thank you. I treasure this gift and your wonderful generosity :-)

daw the minstrel · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

I love Emlin. "I have you!" What a great thing to say. It's like she's keeping him safe somehow. The female coming-of-age ceremony was interesting to see. I think it's fitting that it stresses a woman's role as lifegiver. And given that elf women made lembas, bread is a good food for her to distribute. The moment when Lathron and Tinania declare their love for one another was so touching. Even though they'd never spoken, they knew.

Lady Saruman · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

woooh! you're on a roll here! keep them coming! I wonder where legolas got the idea of the 'pack of females'. and one thing that you've got wrong is this: you said that Tinánia wasn't as graceful or as beautiful as Luthíen, but Tolkien himself stated that all elves have grace. though, i agree with you as having her beauty not exceed that of Luthíen, because in "The Silmarillion", Tolkien said that she was the most beautiful of the children of Iluvatar. and for that thranduil thing, Tolkien said somewhere that he lusted for gold greatly. maybe an appendix? I don't remember. Okay, great story, Nilmandra! Happy Birthday, Dot! As for my author submission thing--i hope you will pardon me because my story is nearly complete and i will send it to you within the next few weeks--school has kept me really busy. Hershey's hugs/kisses, Lady Saruman ^_~

Bodkin · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

For two who have made sheeps-eyes at each other over ... quite a while, but never spoken, Lathron and Tinania are clearly made for each other. That they should both have prepared for the moment by taking a silver ring with them! I do hope the jeweller was there, laughing his head off! I loved Legolas's reaction - a pack of women, indeed! Probably not a bad moment for his brother to win the hand of his Tinania. He seems to be at the point of becoming more boy than child and girls won't matter so much to him for a while. Lovely ceremony, too. And Tinania's career has been clear from her earliest appearance - she is a natural defender. Although, if she and Lathron are to marry, she might not be front-line troops for long. I can see him coping well with a reversal of the usual pattern, though. He is remarkably strong. Bregolas made a terrific support for his brother - and was able to point out what Lathron appears to have missed: that Tinania would be very disappointed in Lathron were not to speak. A delightful story to wake up to. And Happy Birthday, Dot.

Gwynhyffar · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

Yay! Another Woodland Realm story! Even though I thought I knew what was coming, I couldn't help but blink when Tinánia said no. I think my neighbours heard me cry out HA HAA! when she produced a ring as well. Very clever! But then, she's always been very clever. I really enjoyed reading this and seeing Lathron overcome his nervousness. I have to admit I also giggled at this: “No,” interrupted Urithral. He grinned. “I’ve always wanted to tell you ‘no.’ Legolas seemed quick to find a new elleth... or rather, she was quick to find him. Cute story, Nilmandra.

Elflingimp · 26 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

I really like these stories the only problem is I just keep on wanting the story to go on!

pipinheart · 25 February 2006 · Chapter 1: The Betrothal

I always have like Lathron, and he will have the young bride he always has loved, though legolas was a little disappointed, but seems his eyes went elsewhere....