Reviews (39)

Zardi · 16 June 2014 · Chapter 6: To find and to lose

Don't ever apologize for long chapters! I absolutely loved all the Thranduil and Legolas interaction in this chapter. He is turning into adult elf we all know and love. Also really liked Mithrandir's little scene with them. :)

Dot · 27 August 2012 · Chapter 7: Desiring above all to sow fear and disunion

Drive-by commenting, I'm afraid, but my conscience was telling me to let you know I've been thoroughly enjoying this. I'm so sorry I got behind with reviewing (I need to win the Lotto and give up my job and read fanfic all day long) but I really have been thrilled with each chapter. There was probably a chorus of "poor Tulus" following this one so I'll just add my voice to it. You did an excellent, excellent job of showing all sides and just why he's so torn. What a dreadful situation. And even while making promises to Thranduil, he's still ultimately betraying him by not admitting what he knows. It's also a stark reminder of the troubles and politics and deep-rooted feelings that exist within this realm - that danger doesn't always come from outside. Anyway, I've loved seeing Legolas and Galithil come so far (it reminds me of the way I look in awe at my two-year-old nephew when he speaks in full sentences!!) and you've reminded me how much I love this world. I'm very much looking forward to the next installment :-)

CandissD · 23 August 2012 · Chapter 7: Desiring above all to sow fear and disunion

Is the end of september here yet? :D Another great chapter and poor Tulus. I feel sorry for him but at least he's warned Thranduil and Legolas and both are smart enough to put two and two together. Can't wait to hear more in the fall! :)

Morn · 23 August 2012 · Chapter 7: Desiring above all to sow fear and disunion

What an impossible situation- poor Tulus! He's completely in wound up in this and i can't imagine this'll turn out well for him. Manadhien is so cruel and twisted. And Legolas completely trusts him! Oh dear! Anyway, great story, can't wait for the next installments.

Fantasia · 23 August 2012 · Chapter 7: Desiring above all to sow fear and disunion

What I'm going to say about this chapter? I'm heartbroken for Tulus. He is an an impossible situation and the only way that he sees out is protecting Legolas with his own life. And his son, he is so far taken by the Dark! Well, Manadhien is a formidable opponent. It is really a shame that she is in the wrong side. Very intelligent and using any weapons to reach her goal. Blackmail is very efficient. I think that Tulus should has tell Thranduil. Plotting her death is not enough and it could have being better to tell now than later. Thanks Elliska. Waiting for more....Hopefully after the movies, the fanfics will pick their pace again, like the old time

perelleth · 23 August 2012 · Chapter 7: Desiring above all to sow fear and disunion

Ouch... Poor Tulus, he's juggling too many knives here... and betraying Thranduil, Dolgailon and Legolas at the same time, despite his proclamations. This is a trainwreck waiting to happen... :( Excellent work, elliska, the tension was almost unbearable during the whole story.

daw the minstrel · 23 August 2012 · Chapter 7: Desiring above all to sow fear and disunion

Oh wow, poor Tulus. As a parent, I'm not sure what I'd do either--go to bed and pull the covers over my head probably. But he had one remaining fear that he needed to prove wrong. I liked the way you dropped this little hint and then let us find out what was up as Tulus did. Manadhien is a nasty piece of work. I wanted to reach through my screen and choke her when she dragged out all the letters. I think Tulus has the right idea to be plotting her death. There's one elf they could all do without. She allied with orcs, for god's sake! And Glilavan is so willfully dense about it. I think he's so sure of his own cause that he believes what he needs to believe. Tulus gives Thranduil good advice but I'm not sure it will save him in the end.

Morn · 16 August 2012 · Chapter 6: To find and to lose

Typical Gandalf turning up just in the nick of time. Knowing what happens in the future I have a feeling Thranduil's suspicion of his interest in Legolas isn't uncalled for. I can imagine his reaction when he gets the news that his son has been sent to Mordor! I like Legolas' new found maturity in this and I'm glad he decides to be responsible and stand up to his father. Perhaps he would execute Manadhien if he reacts like that to one of her guards! I can't imagine he would give her the mercy he has shown here. I have a feeling there'll be more drama to this before he has to make that decision. Thranduil's reaction to Amglaur's death is interesting of course, it was a very complicated relationship. I feel a bit sorry for him, it must be hard to mourn someone like that. Gutted to see this bit finished, I've enjoyed reading it. Looking forward to the epilogue and the future stories :) Again, thank you for writing.

perelleth · 16 August 2012 · Chapter 6: To find and to lose

The idea of Galithil and Legolas going back to the Green was particularly powerful, because they're no longer the elflings they used to be, and even more clearly than after Galithil's parents passing. Now they're part o the council, they hold responsibioity, theve seen treason among elves, they've seen the real dangers of dark evil at play and not "just" orcs and so the "age of innocence" is deinitely over for them. And yet, as Thranduil and Lindomiel show, there's also time for merrymaking and forgetting and enjoying the beauty that is there. For all the plot twists and revelations, what really hit me in this chapter was that sense of "normalcy" after the tragedy. And yet, the epilogue sounds ominous, as these things usually go. excellent storytelling there, elliska!

Fantasia · 16 August 2012 · Chapter 6: To find and to lose

Well, everybody fitted in the roles very well while Thranduil was in disability. A credit to their education. I really liked the complicity between Legolas and Hallion. Yes, Legolas was very brave to stop his Father, but was the right decision. Very tense situation. The nerve of Demil...Death sentence to him and finish it! No, I won't be happy if Gandalf starts to pay attention to my child. And what is the problem between Galadriel and Thranduil in your universe? Don't remember.I always assumed that Thranduil was realted to Celeborn, but not to Dior.So, is he realted to Elrond as well?. The elves' genealogical trees are so complicated. Now, a question no related to this story, who is playing Thranduil in the new movies? Haven't see it. Your mother is from Spain? three of my grandparents are from Spain, all over, from the Basque country and Canarias....what a mix..and my father in law was born in Asturias. I'm from Cuba, currently living in California...no Florida for me:)

CandissD · 15 August 2012 · Chapter 6: To find and to lose

Another great chapter! I enjoyed it and am sad this story is coming to an end! I still look forward to the last bit :)

daw the minstrel · 15 August 2012 · Chapter 6: To find and to lose

Loved the opening scene between Thranduil and Lindomiel! It's so good to see a married couple in love. And also in lust. :-) And Legolas continues to surprise both me and Thranduil with how much he's matured. The image of him and Hallion lying in the grass with their feet up made me laugh, as did this line, because they were so unexpected. "That must be frightening," Legolas said. I had to pause to sort out who all the bad people were. You've created such a long, thickly-peopled story arc that I can't always keep up, but it quickly because clear what was afoot. At first, I wasn't sure whether Dannenion and Dolwon were they involved, but now I'm sure they weren't. Demil/Bronil is "contemptuous" of them, and then they give the guy up and are shocked by the blue arrow. The presence of an elf from Menegroth and Sirion is really powerful. That was such a high-stakes, evil effort, shocking from elves. And the threat to kill everyone at the table is beyond appalling, especially since it's made so casually. It does worry me that he keeps glancing at Tulus. Mithrandir certainly appeared when most needed. As he is wont to do! Though Legolas played a role in making sure he wasn't too late to save Thranduil from himself, the kind of loss that's hardest to recover from. I did like the "let God Manwe sort it out" moment. Too bad it didn't work out. The moment with Legolas afterwards was great! Thranduil has to exert his ruler's authority, but he does it privately and then puts his arm around his son. I had to laugh when Mithrandir tells Thranduil that he and Galadriel are alike. I'm sorry this story is nearly done. I've enjoyed it so much.

perelleth · 8 August 2012 · Chapter 5: The evil was not yet known for what it was

Wow! terrifying battle part 2 and then the aftermath. Amglaur and Limmiell's fates are awful, and also for the fact that LEgolas and Galithil were powerless witnesses to it! And also the sense of dread, after such a tragedy. I mean, a few days ago Thranduil felt safe enough in his realm to undertake such a family picnic with the wives on board, and now his in-laws are dead, he was almost klled, his children injured and traumatized... I wonder how he's gonna process all of this, despite the fact that no one could have known. And to add insult to injury, the bad woman was ruling over Aradunnon's village! That's a delicate piece of bitter irony on your part!!! Dogailon was great here, and I think Legolas is showing his true colors as a natural leader. Poor Galithil, though! enough cutting down o beloved ones before his eyes to last him an elven time! And now, to chase an elf, and to make an example out of her. Not an easy prospect, no wonder LEgolas is shocked it all has to sound unnatural to him, and elf betraying elves and then elves executing an elf... Touch times, Legolas! And excellent job elliska, this story is touching on so many dark places as well as filling in canon gaps!

Morn · 8 August 2012 · Chapter 5: The evil was not yet known for what it was

Another great chapter. As I said on the last chapter, the battle scene left me feeling very nervous. I am glad help arrived when it did- although poor Limmiel and Amglaur. Although, it was obvious he would not make it to lothlorien to become king, I suppose. Galithil's change of heart over becoming a warrior is interesting, the reality of war is intense afterhe and his cousins interest in learning to fight and playing war games. At least Tulus is onto Manadhien! Hopefully we will finally see her get what she deserves. Will Thranduil really execute her? I can't decide if he would or not. Didn't he say he would not after another attack? Hmmm. I like how you have tied this in with other characters from the books (like haldir and his brothers) and the story of Nimrodel and celeborn and galadriel's move to Lothlorien. It means that it feels less like an imagining and more like the gaps filled where Tolkien doesn't fill them, if that makes sense. Again, thank you for writing and leaving it on a smaller cliffhanger this time- although I hope the guard's news isn't too disturbing. I look forward to the next chapter.

CandissD · 7 August 2012 · Chapter 5: The evil was not yet known for what it was

The battle description had me on pins and needles - Poor Amglauer and Limmiel - I thought Lindomiel was a goner too but I am glad help arrived when it did. I loved the fact that Thranduil was awake enough to hear Legolas and Galithil's conversation about the battle and to take the effort to try to explain some of it to them even though he was so wounded. Even though their actions in the battle are not very elfling-like, they are still not of age and that has to be a lot to absorb seeing how evil the orcs are (and with the arrow, seeing how evil some elves can be as well). Any parent would hate to have their children subjected to that. I am also interested in how Galithil will react in the future to see if this was enough to make him shy away from being a warrior for good. It sounds like it so far. Also, I loved Legolas taking the initiative to stop Dolgailon from speaking to Tulus that way. I am excited to see how this all plays out . Very good chapter, although sad from the losses. :(

Fantasia · 7 August 2012 · Chapter 5: The evil was not yet known for what it was

It is terrible. I mean, good that help arrived, but it is a sad victory. Legolas is becoming a Prince, no doubt, the end was just perfect and his support to Tulus and correcting his cousin was impeccable. And I feel bad for Galithil, I think that seeing battle at such a young age has affected him very bad. Do elves experience PTSD? But I think that he will be an incredible adviser. There is a phrase from Solomon (I think), which I can loose it translate to English (I learned in Spanish, my language) that is very descriptive of the importance of counselors: Battles are won by the generals, but the War is won by the counselors, well, something like that. What I'm trying to say is that he will be very useful as an adviser, if he doesn't want to be a warrior. He'll be very useful as a "civil commander" of the elves in the forest. Besides, all the royal house members should not being fighting around and even traveling together, this ambush should show them that someone has to stay behind, as a back up. And Tulus, poor Tulus. What about his son? I remember that Dolgailon was a very good friend of him and was deeply affected by his treason, even if he did not acknowledged it. Sadly, we know now why Legolas' grandparents were not the rules of Lothlorien. I thought that the Queen was gone as well, it was terrifying read about her and the orcs and see Dolgailon trying to reach her and his impotence to do something. Thranduil and his Queen, what a terrible ordeal. Ok, I'm finished, I should be working and not worrying about elves...Please, update soon and Thank you

daw the minstrel · 7 August 2012 · Chapter 5: The evil was not yet known for what it was

Holy crow, that was a bad battle. It sounded like nearly everyone was down before the elven signal came. Thank Eru. I liked the way Dolgailon responded to the lack of a patrol, the dog that didn't bark, so to speak. But cripes, what a horrible series of actions with Lindomiel. I thought she was a goner. When I started writing original fic, I realized how convenient (if awful) it was that Tolkien made orcs so wholly evil because that meant you could kill them with no twinge of conscience whatever. But Thranduil surely expresses a true parent's regret that his children live in such a world. Galithil's little speech about the life of a warrior, especially one in command, was very moving. And then he grimaces when Thranduil calls him a warrior, something he'd once have been thrilled by. I really have to wonder what you have in store for his future. That silver and blue arrow was an exciting find. It sure stirred up Dolgailon and Tulus. The scene between them and Legolas was an interesting example of how you can follow canon (Thranduil survives) but still give Legolas a chance to act like a ruler, albeit a very young one. I really liked the way you showed us Dolgailon's surprised reaction to that, even though Legolas doesn't quite realize what he sees. I also liked how Dolgailon silently tries to keep news of Limmiel's fate from being spoken in Legolas's presence. In both those cases, you imply what's happening so well.

Morn · 1 August 2012 · Chapter 4: The war that must inevitably come

Hello, I stumbled across this looking for fanfiction about the Greenwood/Mirkwood elves and I absolutely love it. Tolkien really teases us with these elves, doesn't he? They are written about so briefly that is great to let your mind run with them! Legolas and Thranduil are obviously in the books but there's so much to fill in. I've read it all in the past few weeks and have absolutely loved the way you write these characters. The effort you have put into writing this really shows. Like I've said, your characters are great, those from the books are written in keeping with what is there, although you've managed to put your own twist on their personalities really well. Your OCs are detailed too, I like the way you have put so much detail into not just the central characters but the history of all the characters, e.g. Amglaur, Engwe and the King's council is really clear in the piece. You write the serious dark sections of battle and death with great emotional impact. The lighter moments are brilliant too, such as the female dwarf (that made me laugh out loud) as well as the romantic sections and the sweet family moments. I'm not going to give you a review of every chapter here, but the latest installments are the only ones I've read in order and I've been really excited to read the next piece, especially when you leave us on such a cliffhanger! I like the development of the characters too, Thranduil has obviously throughout been coloured by his past in losing his cousin, the kinslaying annd the death of his father. You can see now in Galithil how his parents deaths have affected him as well his and Legolas' growing maturity. There is also Marti/Moralfien/whatever her name is next being affected by her past experiences of the house of Oropher. Is it Moralfien's doing? (I know you won't say ;)) In a strange way there's something much creepier about an elf using Orcs to achieve the same things using men. It feels less of a political move and hints at a much darker depth of the attempts. How can they dismiss the idea of a Balrog so easily?! They'll regret that later, won't they? When Amglaur mentioned it, you felt like hitting your head on something! Although, perhaps it's better that they don't know for sure! I know I'll be sat all week worrying about what happens next- this is a sticky situation! My minds been going through you can kill off, and besides Legolas and Thranduil's survival,it's not looking good! Don't leave me on this cliffhanger for to long! Thank you for writing and keep on going!

perelleth · 1 August 2012 · Chapter 4: The war that must inevitably come

OMG, that's a massacre worth of PJ's gore beginnings, there at the end! And yes, poor Tulus was my thought as well... Looks like Legolas and Galithil and maturing at sword thrusts..:-( Wiser reviewers have pointed out the highlights of this intense chapter, so I'm just gonna pick up an expression that I loved: "I am not going to die treed... So deeply elfy!!! Don't make us wait too long for the enxt chapter. I am deeply worried about Conuion and Limmiel and all the rest, and eagerly awaiting the arrival of those missing the party. Great job again, elliska.

CandissD · 31 July 2012 · Chapter 4: The war that must inevitably come

ahhhh what a cliffhanger! please update soon :D I really love this storyline!

Anonymous · 31 July 2012 · Chapter 4: The war that must inevitably come

This was an incredibly well written chapter. The detail of the battle between the royal family and the orcs was very descriptive and enthralling! So excited for the next chapter!

Dot · 31 July 2012 · Chapter 4: The war that must inevitably come

Elliska! What are you trying to do to us??? I'll try and think of something sensible to say even though my heart is pounding and I'm muttering nasty things about you... I loved, loved, loved Galithil in this - not only speaking up and answering the questions thrown at the king but being the one to remind Legolas that Now is not the time to argue. We must obey Conuion. He is the captain. Oh, before I forget to say it - the opening is gorgeous in the description of the evening's fun. I love how elfy your elves are, especially when there are horrors so close to them. I'm enjoying Amglaur, who manages to be both single-minded and conflicted in this. All he wants is to do the right thing by everyone but he's as stubborn as Thranduil in that and everyone else seems determined to weigh in with an opinion too. This could not be a balrog. That gave me chills. Both because he dismisses it and because the feeling behind the dismissal is that such a creature is so destructive and horrific that they can't even bear considering it. I also like the references dotted throughout to what they've experienced before, reminding us of their long and difficult history. Do you know how much I was yelling at Thranduil not to let them go with Amglaur? :-) This was a truly great moment: It was a sort of twanging noise that sounded familiar, but Legolas could not immediately identify it. Familiar, but out of place, somehow. It really showed that no matter how well trained he is, he's inexperienced. And that out-of-context sound was really unsettling for a moment - except I nearly fell of my seat and was willing him to realise quick smart what it was!! And then... what can I say? It was tense and awful and brutal and chillingly realistic. You did a great job with the sense of warriors knowing what they're doing (loved the directions through hand gestures!) but then in their midst they have people who are willing and fairly skillful but not used to the issuing or following of orders in this scenario. Then you left us hanging and I was making my own hand gestures... Where the heck is that witch and her lapdogs? Where are all the visitors wandering around the forest? What's going to happen next???? It's too much. You've me worn out. I need tea.

Fantasia · 31 July 2012 · Chapter 4: The war that must inevitably come

OH, OH, I don't know what to say...Well yes, where is Haldir and Co? and Dolgailon? Very sure who is behind this trap: Moralfien. And Galithil is really becoming a leader.

daw the minstrel · 31 July 2012 · Chapter 4: The war that must inevitably come

I loved it when Galithil decides to address the anxious crowd himself! Thranduil seems as surprised and pleased as I was. Too bad Thranduil's so mistaken in his certainty that all balrogs are dead. I did like the allusion to his and Amglaur's long experience with the evils in Middle Earth. Amglaur comes across as really hot-headed. Sounds like he and Oropher must have been two of a kind. Of course, Thranduil might soon blow up himself if Moralfien keeps on her merry way. I can see why the villagers appreciate the weapons she supplies, though. She's good at divide and conquer. Talk about traveling to the border made me cringe. Story logic says that will lead to no good. So I wasn't surprised by the attack, though I was surprised by the attack from the other direction. What is it they say you should do when you're writing? Ask yourself what's the worst thing that could happen and do it. I did like the way Legolas is a slower than the experienced warriors at recognizing the release of an arrow, despite the way he must have heard the sound hundreds of times. Oddly, one of the things I also really liked was Conuion directing the guards just by gestures. He's aware of a lot of things going on at once and has absolute confidence that he'll be obeyed. Of course, Legolas seems to be having some doubts about who's in charge. I can't say I blame him. You outdid yourself with the torture of Limmiel. That went beyond cringing. Thank Eru it was short. But then you moved on to a blood bath for the elves of the Greenwood. You are very mean. So did Moralfien set up that attack? No, don't answer that. Suspense is good for me.

Dot · 30 July 2012 · Chapter 3: All those who bring wars and destroy the peace of old

I'm way behind after being missing for a week but I wanted you to know that I did read and enjoy this. I better poke my head in the door before you have the next chapter up! Something tells me Tulus had better keep his wits about him. And a strange and deadly elf who knows gem work and offers to make a ring? Oh yeah, that sounds completely reasonable and not at all weighted with history ;-) And oh! People popping up and taking their places. Love it! I'm excited.