Reviews (71)

The Karenator · 14 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

Like all your other devoted fans, I was tickled pink to see this. I need a good dose of Mirkwood. Glilan is a sight for sore eyes. She's such a hoot. I keep remembering her wanting Thranduil to stop the rain on Ithilden's wedding day. She's the perfect aunt, wanting everything to go smoothly and wanting everyone to be happy...even if that means a little matchmaking. Lord love her because Legolas isn't too sure at the moment about his feelings. And the poor elleth she dragged along to the party. I imagine she didn't know she was going to be trotted out like a horse for inspection for the king's youngest son. Of course, Legolas feels he's the horse on the block. I see misery ahead. Alfirin is in her element, arranging the party and bossing the male portion of the household around. But it was sweet how she admonished Thranduil to have fun and not to forget the purpose of this shindig is to celebrate his begetting day. I think the old boy was touched himself. It's nice to be loved and for the king, attention to the personal things of his life must feel neglected since Lorellin has been gone. Between Alfirin and Glilan, Thranduil might wonder though what hit him. The men are going to be interesting. They're fish out of water among the elves. And...teaching one young elf a few bad habits. Burping? I asked my husband once--after being subjected to a round of burping and other disgusting things by this all male household--when guys grew out of the bathroom humor and he said: Never. Geez, I believe it. There must be a happy body function gene attached to this or...brain damage in utero. Something's not right. And Eilian. What can I say? He's so Eilian. Delightfully Eilian. Kissing in the stable stall and being mistaken for a groom. Boy, that man is in for a shock. Eilian might be as well when Adar finds out he was out riding with a cutie pie when he should have been practicing his 'son of Thranduil' role. Great setup for a fun fiasco. I'm up for the party and the ensuing chaos. Looking forward to seeing what falls apart. Delightful, Daw, as always. Karen

elliska · 14 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

My Internet access has been sporadic this week and when I got online, I was so surprised to see a story by you! Yeah! This was so much fun to read. The king's beggetting day party. Oh Lord! This has potential (for disaster). I started laughing at I thought Legolas could show Iseniel to her chamber. Poor Legolas. And it just got better from there. Men at Thranduil's party. Well that could only make things more interesting, expecially given the nature of Legolas and Eilian's last adventure into Mannish territory. So do you think Eilian sincerely thought asking Alfirin was appropriate because he recognized this was her party or do you think he recognized that and saw it as the perfect was to manipulate an escape? I love Eilian. And speaking of the devil, I about died laughing at the man at the stable and his treatment of Eilian. I hope you make him recognize Eilian later. That was sooo funny. But every line once the party began had me laughing. What had he ever done to merit having his son look at Sinnarn and Calylad with that admiring gaze? *Snort* I loved seeing Maltanaur and Calith's children, but that line was great. So was: “Only once.” I'll bet that is a great story! Beliond was hilarious. But the end! I hooted so loudly the dog ran from the room. That was evil!

yanic · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

Hahah! Well that's one way to get rid of a lady! I was sooo excited to see another new story! And I love that you're bringing in all of the OCs, cuz I love 'em! And Beliond is such a hoot, I'm glad he's in here too

White Wolf · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

I'm loving this. I can only imagine what Thranduil would (will?) say about Legolas's uncouth behavior. Iseniel was probably going to tell him she's sorry for what his aunt did, and she's not romantically interested in him, but he never gave her the chance. Eilian is his usual self, I see. I need say no more than that. Visualizing Beliond skulking around spying on the men is too funny. Loved the hairbrained comment. The one I feel for is Alfirin, though she seems in her element at a celebration like this. How long she stays that way may depend on how far down this whole affair disintegrates.

Wantanelf · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

Yipee!! Daw returns!! I've missed you. I was so happy to see you have started another story. As usual it is wonderful. As usual the interaction between your characters is so believable. I loved Legolas' reaction to the attempt at matchmaking. I can't wait to see what happens when that arrogant Eman finds out who Eilian really is. And I see Eilian is up to his usual mischief with the local maidens. Your story made me smile and chuckle all the way through. But, did I read it's only 3 chapters long! Oh, please tell me you have another one in the works. Three chapters is just not enough. Looking forward to chapter 2!!

sofia · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

I'm glad you have another story out. I can't wait to see Eman's reaction when he finds out the elf he thought was a stablehand was actually the kings son. And Legolas burping to get Iseniel to go away, very amusing. Can't wait for the next chapter.

Alice · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

Huzzah! Another Daw the minstrel story! And a farce as well, which is going well so far. Hee. This is going to be fun. We have Beliond wandering around with his Super Spy kit ( I swear to god I have this image of him in camo hiding in bushes spying on the men), Eilian avoiding Eman which you know he's not going to be able to do forever, and Legolas in a similar futile effort trying to avoid his aunt's machinations to see him wed. Legolas, such a dimwit. There was no need to burp in the girl's face. Just talk incessantly about yourself and don't let her get a word in edgewise and she'll run away as fast as her elvish legs can take her.Why is it that I suspect that the girl was just trying to tell him that she had no interest and was sorry to put him in this awkward position? Ooh. I loved Alfirin in this story. I think it's impossible not to immedietly say "Awwwww." when she tells Thranduil that his birthday is the main reason they're there. Also, I love how she tells Ithilden to stop making faces because Toviel is nice. Hee. Ithilden is only making faces because he knows that Toviel is not Celuwen and they'll never have any peace until Eilian gets his act together with Celuwen. Which I believe is not for a century or so so hang in there Ithilden. I was also quite pleased to see Sinnarn. I've missed that boy. And poor Eman. Trying to get information out of a sixteen-year-old-boy. Hee. Sinnarn knows what's important. Being polite and then quickly slipping away with friends. I can't wait for the next chapter!

thechevin · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

What a delightful surprise this was I have so missed my visits to the Woodland Realm and its wonderful denizens. Legolas is going to regret that belch I expect if his great aunt ever finds out that is Eilian is sheer joy to watch as he goes about causing mayhem for all and sundry and Thranduil towers above them all and probably sees and knows more than anyone else I am desperate to find out about the present whatever can it be? If it is in as bad taste as the wrapping, Alfirin is going to have her hands full as the party gets into full swing I am so happy to see you writing again

perelleth · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

Very funny, choral chapter! Beliond is asking to be put in his place by Thranduil! Too trusting? :-)I wonder what the king would think of that! But Beliond was truly hilarious.. insulting Eilian was clearly a new step! Sinnarn was truly amusing. That piece of conversation with Eman was great. And meanwhile, Legolas fighting for his life. I wonder if we shall get to know how Eilian discouraged auntie's efforts... although, on second thoughts, LEgolas seems to be doing pretty well following his own clues...

Bodkin · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

Legolas is clearly still a very young warrior! Maybe Alfirin needs to take him in hand and suggest a few rather more subtle ways of deterring maidens. Not, it seems to me, that Iseniel needs much driving off - she doesn't seem much keener on being paraded before the king's son than he is on being given a filly to inspect. You would think that Glilan would have learned by now. Still, hope springs eternal in the match-making breast. As they say. Naughty Eilian. In so many ways! I wonder how he stopped Aunt Glilan in her tracks... Possibly by flirting far too much with her innocent maidens. Eilian is the kind of young man that chaperones would try to keep their charges from - despite being the king's son. Witness the 'borrowed' horse and his activities with Toviel in the stables - 'I would rather you brushed me' indeed! It's a wonder he remained single long enough to bond with Celuwen. And Adar would probably not be pleased with a whole raft of his son's activities, his interaction with Eman not least. I love meeting Calith's son. Admiring the activities of Sinnarn and Maltanaur's grandson. I hope to see lots more of these two! Sinnarn needs friends! I imagine friendship with Sinnarn caused much the same dread in parental hearts that friendship with Eilian did some half-century before. I wonder what Gelmir's parents thought of Eilian. Bit difficult to tell the king's son/grandson that he's not welcome. (Siondel and Elowen must have been grateful that Legolas was a relatively sweet-natured and harmless youth. Although, of course, he had his moments when he hit the dreaded adolescence.) This is a delightful dance of characters - all come together for pleasure. I suspect dear old suspicious Beliond might prove that Thranduil is too trusting - what a picture that creates in the mind. And that Legolas might learn a thing or two about ellyth. (And that will stand him in good stead in the future!) Missed lots out, but I'm not re-reading as I write. I will do that in a minute when I can just enjoy the dance. Looking forward to more.

pipinheart · 12 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

You always have a great story that makes me want more... I love this... Thranduil's party is going to be an interesting one. Eilian with a new madien and Legolas aquiring one his Aunt pushed him. Legolas not pleased....poor thing... Some new characters of the younger elves introduced, and loved Eilian taken as a stable hand, wonder what the man will think when he knows he is the Kings son... Will Legolas get rid of the madien seasily? LOL... That was very inventive of him to use... Update soon....

emjo · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

This was soo good Daw! I am still laughing at Legolas. Love it, can't wait for more!

Manderly · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

Oh definitely party time!!! And even though I'm not invited, I'm thoroughly enjoying every bit of this bash in honour of Thranduil. What a deluge of characters and all their delightful little quirks! The giggles and cackles came quite effortlessly while I was reading (unlike Legolas and his so unelvish belch). Poor Alfirin trying to keep tabs on everything and everyone to make this a perfect party while the male members of her family (excluding Thranduil and maybe Ithilden) are certainly not making it any easier for her. Is this typical or what? So I am looking forward to see how Thranduil twirls Helad and Eman around his fingers, how Legolas further saves himself from his aunt's matchmaking plans and how Eilian, well, be Eilian. Looking forward to more giggles ahead!

LOTRFaith · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

(laughing) That was certainly enjoyable!!! Lol... Legolas burping :-D :-D Certainly one way to force a girl to leave :-) Can't wait for the next chapter!! Hopefully it won't involve any other types of (ahem) 'burping' :-D

Dot · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

ROTFL!!! What a treat this is :-D I was grinning from start to finish. There’s something very endearing about Thranduil and his sons being hugged by relatives. I do hope we see lots of Thranduil in this – I’ve really missed him! It amused me hugely that Thranduil seems to have to hang out in the Great Hall as people arrive and bustle in and out. I get the impression that Thranduil is rather enjoying this, though, if only in watching others and getting to play diplomat without them realising it. However Alfirin persuaded him that this begetting day would be celebrated in such a manner. I do love how fond he is of her. I’m still smiling at his reaction to her kiss on his cheek and assertion that he’s the reason they’re all here. “I am so happy you could be here to help us make Adar’s begetting day one he will long remember” Um, should I be groaning?! I sense Thranduil may indeed be about to have a memorable begetting day… I can’t believe Glilan is trying to match-make! LOL. Poor Legolas. The entire scene with Eilian and Toviel was absolutely hilarious. Lines like ‘sort out a situation between a mare and a stallion that promised to create a surprise for the mare’s owner in a little under a year’, “You must thank the king for loaning him to me”, “I would rather you brushed me” had me in hysterics. And then the man from Esgaroth! I was wheezing by the time he tossed the coin to Eilian. Eilian did well :-) Although, I’m not sure his father would be too pleased… Unless he realised how much worse it could have gone if Eilian didn’t hold his tongue. Maltanaur’s grandson? Calith’s son? Woo-hoo! At last :-) It’s just priceless that Calith’s son looks up to Sinnarn and Calylad like that! And he can’t keep him away from them because Ithilden is his boss! I loved the idea of Sinnarn taking the harp – and playing a really lively tune. It sounds like a fun party. You do a great job creating a sense of all the activity around the place. LOL at Eilian wiping his fingers on his formal robe. That struck me as particularly funny! And so very Eilian. Good old Beliond. Such a trusting, naïve elf… *snort* Whether or not his suspicions turn out to be correct, I’m grinning at the image of him trailing this guy instead of enjoying himself. What’s in the bag? No, really, what’s Sinnarn just left in the family sitting room?? Sinnarn’s answer to Eman made me laugh. I didn’t know it was possible to be cheeky and discreet at the same time! I assume Eman’s belch was a sign of appreciation for the food. Not one the elves are used to, though! Poor Iseniel. You had me choking with laughter at the end. That was an inspired reaction on Legolas’ part (and it probably still isn’t as bad as whatever Eilian did ;-) I wonder how many people witnessed it?! Most enjoyable! More please!

French Pony · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

Thranduil just can't win, can he? Of course, it would be a sadder and soberer world if he did. Lorellin's relatives are marvelous. We really need more of them. I love that Aunt Glilan is such a yenta that she can commandeer a young maiden to come along with her on every visit despite never having any success. Thranduil keeps inviting her, and the maidens keep coming with her. That's a serious matriarchy she's got going there. Thranduil is lucky she's on his side. Alfirin the party planner is hard at work making sure that all the details go off as planned, even to making sure that the minstrel plays exactly what he's paid to play. I guess this would be the equivalent of making sure that the band plays "New York, New York," instead of something more recent? Looks like Sinnarn hasn't yet figured out that he's reached an age where antics like that aren't cute any more. But I'll bet Thranduil could dance to his tune, and probably better than Calylad, too. Thranduil always has little surprises like that up the royal sleeve. Legolas is definitely showing the effects of being raised in a household with only boy children. That poor girl was just mortified even to be there and had no intentions of courting him whatsoever (probably even has a sweetie at home). If Legolas had had a sister, she would have taught him how to figure things like that out, but the poor boy is just too dense to see it. On the other hand, I am jealous of his ability to belch on command. I never learned how to do it young enough, and it's one of those skills that always have an appropriate moment, if you look hard enough.

Nilmandra · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

I forgot to tell you this, but I nearly spewed lemonade all over my new monitor at the end of the chapter. You'd have been in trouble if I hadn't managed to stop myself. And the Beliond stuff is great. I really like all the goings on - your woodland realm seems like an entertaining place to be and in line with Tolkien's merry wood elves.

Jay of Lasgalen · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

How nice to see one of your stories again. All the old familiar faces I love are here! You'd think Legolas would be used to having predatory females with matrimony on their minds after him by now. He hasn't learned to deal with the problem very well yet, though. I loved seeing Eman mistake Eilian for a groom. Can't wait to see his face when he realises his mistake!!

Lianna · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

Oh, this is funny -- although I see a need for some serious diplomacy, too. I'm glad to see Alfirin in charge. I like her in that role, and I notice that Thranduil seems to appreciate her efforts, too. Loved the belch. Go, Leggy. One question, though. I thought the age difference between Eilian and Legolas was more like 60 years than 40. I thought that in A Spring of Joy, Legolas observed that Sinnarn was closer to him in age than Eilian was. But here you make the age difference between Legolas and Sinnarn the same as the age difference between Legolas and Eilian. Or am I remembering things wrong?

rikwen · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

This chapter should come with a drink warning. I nearly washed my monitor when I read what Legolas did to discourage the ellyn that his aunt had brought with her to the begetting day party. I know it was very impolite, but how like a young adult. I have a feeling Legolas is going to be regretting what he did when the family finds out. Welcome back. All my favorite characters from your stories in one place and for once not worrying about fighting orcs and spiders. I am already curious in what is in that tacky silk bag. Is everyone going to be trying to sneak a peek before Thranduil opens his presents?

Gwynhyffar · 11 March 2006 · Chapter 1: Guests Arriving

I have to admit that I squeed when I saw you had another story started, and once I started reading I was grinning ear to ear. I LOVE that there is so much Thranduil content *grin* and Aunt Glilan trying to play matchmaker with Legolas and some maiden from her village is hilarious. Of course, the last line had me rolling! I can't wait for the next chapter! I'm still laughing!