Reviews (75)

mistry89 · 3 February 2004 · Chapter 33: Conflict and Resolution

Well .... I cried, and that's probably enough to let you know I am/have been enjoyed these stories. Legolas and his pov post-War of the Ring has always seemed to me the saddest part - the book dosen't end for me until he and Gimli sail, and his feelings must have been re-assaulted each time a member of the Fellowship died. He had the longest "view" of those characters we get to know well, bar Mithandir, and so would have grieved for the loss of his (mortal) friends as well as the ending of the time of the elves in ME. Helen

LKK · 28 January 2004 · Chapter 35: A Final Farewell

This was a lovely series, jenolas. I was sad to see the hurt that came between Legolas and Tathar as a result of words spoken in the heat of angry pain. But I was relieved that they reconciled before Tathar faded in despair. I'm glad you chose to have the sons of Elrond sail after Arwen's death. That's what I believe they did, as well. And it was very fitting that Thranduil sailed with Celeborn. I enjoyed this look at an uncommon friendship from its earliest days onward. Thank you! LKK

Camp6311 · 26 January 2004 · Chapter 35: A Final Farewell

I have been following this story from the beginning and have enjoyed reading it very much. I liked your ending with Thranduil and Celeborn (and Elladan and Elrohir) sailing rather than have them simply fade from Middle Earth. As I think back over the story, the parts that stand out most in my mind center around Faelas' story, and the joys and the griefs that were a part of that tale. Another part that stands out was the surprise of the elves when they visit the men's village after 50 some odd years and find the people similar but different. Thanks for sharing this beautiful story.

Dot · 25 January 2004 · Chapter 35: A Final Farewell

No, it’s over! How wonderful that Thranduil and Legolas were able to laugh with each other during their final time together – and the king’s astonishment at Gimli sailing with Legolas was so funny! Legolas seems in good spirits with Gimli as well. I really like that you finished this with him almost the same elf he once was. The strain and suffering he had felt for so long is finally eased and for now at least he can only look forward. It’s so sad to think that most of the elves have now left and that the once great realms have faded and grown silent. But I like Celeborn’s view – Ithilien flourishes and will be a symbol of everything the elves loved, it is a sign of the great friendship that existed between elves and men but is a part of the world of men and it is their turn now to thrive. “You are lonely, mellon nin, as am I.” Ah, Thranduil, it is definitely time to seek your loved ones again. What a wonderful ending. These two elves understand each other more than anyone else could. I can’t tell you how much I love Thranduil’s closing words. There’s such a sense of accomplishment and knowledge that as king he has done everything he could have wished for his people. Any elves left in Middle-Earth can now live in peace and make their own choice if they feel it necessary. Still, it seems the world will be an emptier place once the elves have all left its shores. This story was an amazing creation. I hope you feel very proud of it. Well done, jenolas!:)

Dot · 25 January 2004 · Chapter 34: Namarie, Elessar

Ah, such a beautiful image of Legolas gently welcoming Eldarion into the world. “I am impressed with how unafraid you are of my son, that you know he is not as fragile as he appears.” LOL! I’m guessing Aragorn is finding himself at a bit of a loss as to how to treat a newborn child – I can just imagine him as an adoring but overly fussy father! I’m so glad Thranduil decided to travel with Tathar and Legolas, although I suspect that in part he was probably afraid his son wouldn’t return and wanted a chance to say his farewell. I love the way you wind your other stories into this – Legolas’ attachment to Eldarion and the eventful trip to Imladris, the building of the ship and, of course, the appearances of Gwael. It’s such a lovely idea that Legolas and Aragorn decided to spend their last day together away from others and say goodbye in private. “Your calm acceptance eases my own fears, Legolas”. Don’t you think it’s really interesting that Legolas would never even consider asking Aragorn to hold on a bit longer even though he himself had to stay because his friends didn’t want to let him go? Maybe he just realises the agony of going against what his spirit is telling him and would never ask it of anyone. It’s good to see some joy in Legolas again at the end – he knows he will find peace and must feel such relief at the thought that he won’t be leaving Gimli behind.

Dot · 25 January 2004 · Chapter 33: Conflict and Resolution

What a picture of utter misery poor Tathar is at the beginning of this chapter. It’s so touching, though, that Legolas offers comfort in the way that Tathar did for him so many times before. “Then perhaps it would be wise of you not to feel that way about Aragorn’s son, lest he die in your charge as well!” Ah, Tathar. I can see how he reacts as he does out of despair and pain but those words would be very hard to forgive. That image of Thranduil holding Tathar is so sad, it brought tears to my eyes. They’ve both suffered the loss of loved ones so can understand each other and as well as that, Tathar helped Thranduil when he was parted from Legolas while he was on the quest so I imagine Thranduil is attempting to repay that. You’re full of surprises, jenolas! I can’t believe it never dawned on me that Tathar might fade or might decide to sail. I really thought for a moment there that he was going to die *breathes deeply* I suppose Tathar just gave so much of himself and eventually it became too much. In a way, Legolas must understand. His urgency seems to suggest that he knows full well that Valinor will provide healing and how necessary it can be to sail there – and Tathar has less keeping him here than Legolas does. How sad, though, that the two friends will be parted.

calenore · 24 January 2004 · Chapter 35: A Final Farewell

Hi! I've been following this story for awhile, I really loved it! *sniff* nearly brought me to tears a few times! Are you ever going to write about Legolas' reunion with Tathar? That would be lovely.

Bast · 23 January 2004 · Chapter 33: Conflict and Resolution

Hi! I love your stories. The only thing that I dont like is that you make the relationship between Legolas and Tathar soooo GAY! Yikes! Blargh!!! I hate slash, and I know you only mean it to be brother love but even so...

Dot · 22 January 2004 · Chapter 32: Choices

We’re this far already?? I really don’t like the thought of this coming to an end….! I love the way you wound “Lost and Found” in with this story. I’ll have to re-read that when I have some time, but I do really like the way you managed to give us an extra glimpse at the events of that story. I thought it was actually quite sweet the way the ranger tells Legolas of the tree because he genuinely thinks the elf would be interested in such a thing. Elladan and Elrohir show such wisdom – testament, I guess, to the teachers they’ve had and the guidance others have given them. They obviously don’t know exactly how difficult it is for Legolas but as they say, can empathise with the necessity and struggle to make a difficult choice. I like the way that when they have no words to offer themselves, they choose the words their grandfather used to guide them. Such a touching insight into some of Celeborn’s reasons for staying as well. “Humph! You have as much chance of doing that, Elf, as I do of sailing to Valinor with you”. Very funny, jenolas! Ah, the ending! So unspeakably sad. I feel as though I haven’t taken enough notice of Tathar. I mean, you’ve shown him angry and upset, loving and forgiving and I really admire the depth of his loyalty and how good he is to Legolas, but I don’t think I stopped to really think how much he has suffered. From the time he was very young until now, he has in many ways suffered much more than Legolas, yet he always set his feelings aside and was willing to comfort his friend. It’s absolutely heartbreaking to think of him so griefstricken here, that so many years later his pain can resurface. I think the last part of this chapter really jolted me into realising what difficult times he has gone through. And maybe it might help Legolas to know that he is not the only one who suffers. You have me feeling really bad for Tathar now!;)

Dot · 18 January 2004 · Chapter 31: Inner Turmoil Remains

I have absolutely no doubt that you’ll do your vision justice, jenolas – write it for yourself and never mind the rest of us! It probably doesn’t count for much, but I have complete faith in you anyway and look forward to any angst you have to offer;) The elves seem to have really transformed Minas Tirith – that was a really beautiful description of the city. I like the idea that despite its newfound beauty that the people of Minas Tirith probably revel in, it still doesn’t provide enough of a sense of freedom for elves. It makes me wonder how difficult it would have been for someone like Aragorn among the “stone walls and constant demands of courtly behaviour”, but I suppose it would be far easier for a man to settle into the routine and grow used to city life than an elf such as Legolas – it’s such a huge difference between this and your descriptions of life in Mirkwood. Even in its darkest days, there was never such a sense of restriction in Legolas’ home. I think it’s really clever the way you ensure that we understand that no matter where Legolas is or what he’s doing, he’s constantly troubled by the call of the sea. That pain he experiences when he is with his friends and the guilt he feels when he leaves them, the way he forbids himself to go to Dol Amroth for fear that he won’t be able to resist any more, the idea that he knows how beautiful his new colony is but realises that he is unable to enjoy it as he once would have… everything seems to be a struggle for this once joyful elf and shows just how conflicted he is, how tormented and troubled he feels all the time, even when others believe him to be happy. You weave his emotions so delicately into the events of this story – I just think it’s amazing the way that there’s always this awareness of Legolas’ suffering, no matter what else is going on. Ah, elven magic! Such an enchanting idea that Faramir can only see a strange mist and senses something unusual but the elves clearly see the boats of their own kind. It seems Elladan and Elrohir could brighten up anyone’s day with their antics! I love that Celeborn has shown such enthusiasm for the colony in Ithilien. I suppose he must be delighted at the idea that the elves are bringing beauty and light back to a land ravaged by war and ensuring that the spirit of the elves will live on for a long time to come. Plus, it probably comforts him that there will be a place of life and laughter as his own home grows a little dimmer. It looks like his son is continuing Thranduil’s propensity for throwing feasts for every occasion! How poignant that desperation of Legolas’ plea to Thranduil is. It’s so moving that he longs for the comfort only a father can offer. Of course, to be completely superficial – we might get to see Thranduil again; I was beginning to miss him!:)

Dot · 17 January 2004 · Chapter 30: Breaking Point

I love the passion they all seem to be showing for the new colony in Ithilien. I thought the little mention of how thrilled Faramir is was wonderful. He seems to have known exactly what the elves would have wanted. There’s such a sense of teamwork and shared passion for this project. I can’t believe the Rangers learned some Sindarin – what a lovely welcome for the elves! Tathar is so good to Legolas. He seems to be doing his best to distract Legolas from his melancholy and give him something to focus on – how cute was it when he got so excited that he grabbed Legolas’ hand to drag him off?! And then when he realises that his friend cannot be pulled from any misery he’s feeling, Tather offers him any support he can. “Then tell me why your heart is in turmoil”. Ah, such a beautiful way of asking of him, and it shows that while Tathar doesn’t understand how it feels to have the sea call to him, he knows that it is his friend’s heart that is troubled rather than any other ailment. You did a great job showing Legolas’ anguish and the conflicted feelings that he has. It really sums up how difficult a decision he has to make and how either way will mean pain for someone. How courageous of him to want to chose pain for himself rather than those he loves, even though he surely realises deep down that it will hurt them to know that he is suffering. It’s a lovely image of the two friends falling asleep in the comfort of each other’s arms. And I’m sure the poor Rangers have grown a little used to the strange habits of elves by now! I’m glad Legolas seemed more in control the next day. Obviously he stills suffers but I like the idea that as long as he has friends like Tathar to listen to him during the toughest moments he will be able to keep his promise to Aragorn.

LKK · 16 January 2004 · Chapter 30: Breaking Point

I hope Legolas finds more strength to fight the sea-longing soon. Otherwise, the years of Aragorn's reign will be exceedingly hard on him. I'm sure Tathar will be there for him throughout his trials though. I liked that the rangers serving in Ithilien were trying to learn Sindarin. Usually, in fanfiction, it's the elves who accomodate the humans' manners and language. It's nice to see the reverse for a change. Good chapter, jenolas! LKK

Dot · 15 January 2004 · Chapter 29: A Strange Alliance

Good old Gimli, he certainly did a great job of antagonising Thranduil. Although I can’t blame poor Thranduil – he already dislikes dwarves and not only does he have them in his hall yet again but Gimli is the one to tell him of Legolas’ plans rather than his son. And of course, as well as Legolas leaving again, Thranduil has to deal with the fact that he is suffering inside and that his final times before sailing west will be spent away from his father. I’m glad Tathar liked Gimli immediately. He seems to have complete faith in Legolas’ judgement. “I take it that when the King said ‘guest room’ he did not mean the dungeons?” Now, that would have been hilarious! It must have been a bit of a learning experience for Legolas and Gimli, to travel with elves and dwarves who keep insulting each other, whether accidentally or on purpose. “Until now he had not realised how tiresome the other members of the Fellowship must have found his and Gimli’s initial dislike of each other.” I thought that was really interesting and it seems like it’s something Legolas, at least, regrets now. I really like the way you chose for the two parties to finally learn a bit of respect for each other! I suppose it’s just that it was the dwarves protecting the elves, who probably felt themselves superior warriors, and they did so without hesitation. Oh to have been present in that tavern! I can see why Aragorn wished he had been there. It seems too as though he is already missing such times with his friends. Still, it must be nice to have the power to close a tavern for a private party!!

LKK · 13 January 2004 · Chapter 29: A Strange Alliance

Beautiful, jenolas. I finally got a chance to catch up on this series of vignettes you're presenting. I love the relationships you've given us in the triangle of father, son, and friend. I also like the humor that you sprinkle throughout. (Galadriel's far-speaking to Thranduil was a delight!) Very well done! LKK

Dot · 11 January 2004 · Chapter 28: The Return Home

Ah, such a beautifully poignant opening scene – the trees welcoming Legolas and he singing to them in return but each changed by events and no longer so carefree. I loved the reunion with Thranduil – the way he swings his son around in such utter joy. And it seems that the joking between them all will continue for a while! How did Tariel know about Gimli? *feels a bit stupid* I thought it was quite a sad image of Thranduil sitting to one side and listening to his son speak of his love for his mortal friends. He must have realised in that moment, in front of all these other elves, that the future would bring immense pain and grief for Legolas. It’s interesting that his reaction to the story of the competition was embarrassment – I guess his pride just won’t allow him to accept defeat by a dwarf, even in a game and by one considered a friend by Legolas. That moment where Thranduil sees the sea-longing in his son’s eyes was heartbreaking. I love the intimate picture of Legolas leaning his head on his father’s knee, Thranduil stroking his hair. I’m glad he is letting Legolas go to Ithilien unquestioningly. “Then perhaps I should be grateful that you are so fond of the mortal, if your love for him keeps you here longer”. Hmm. It seems that they both know that this is not necessarily a positive thing – it might keep Legolas in Middle-earth a little longer but is preventing him from seeking the peace he needs. So Tathar finally agrees with one of Legolas’ decisions?! I love their shared excitement and enthusiasm – all that time apart doesn’t seem to have damaged their relationship at all. And they burned the letter. What a fitting ending to the horrific times experienced by all and a note of hope for the future.

Dot · 11 January 2004 · Chapter 27: Mirkwood Invaded

Oh wow, what a powerful image – the glass sliding from Thranduil’s hands and shattering on the floor as he registers Galadriel’s rage and the implications of her message. I love seeing him as the determined leader. He has a wonderful ability to inspire hope and courage in his people. I really liked the thought that he undertook the instruction of the elves in archery – it shows how unafraid he is to be close to his people. You did an incredible job in showing the chaos of the fire and the resulting grief of the elves. It’s amazing the way Thranduil, despite the horror he must be feeling at what happened, takes immediate control and can still see clearly enough to decide what action they should take. Even though the events are unspeakably terrible, nevertheless I find it fascinating to look at him as a ‘hands-on’ leader. I’d love to see what he was like at Dagorlad……;) I love the final paragraph – victory mixed with grief, but also a sense of relief that it is finally over.

Dot · 7 January 2004 · Chapter 26: The King and Tathar

Mmmmm….a whole chapter of Thranduil in the bath….*blissful smile*… Sorry, I’m back to you now! I really liked your insight into the way Thranduil is handling Legolas’ absence. I’m glad he’s doing something productive, and it must really raise the spirits of his warriors to have their king among them, especially when he is determined not to receive any special treatment. It’s great to see him as the warrior he once was. What a striking image. He seems to take a lot of pleasure in ridding his forest of evil – it’s a little frightening, actually, but I suppose there’s bound to be a lot of anger in him when he engages in battle. Not only are these creatures destroying his home, but their existence and increasing strength has resulted in his beloved son being taken from him. At least it provides a way for him to vent any anger or despair. I love all your amusing little details in this chapter! “Tathar had casually suggested that perhaps it was not the sword fighting that was the cause, since the King often sparred with his warriors, but the long hours spent in the saddle” – I can just imagine the whole palace enjoying the notion that Thranduil hurries straight to his bath because he has a sore…well, you know…. ! At least Thranduil was able to laugh at Tathar – it looks like Legolas’ friend is keeping his promise. “His astonishment gave way to embarrassment as he realised where he was and he suddenly felt decidedly uncomfortable to be sharing his bath with Celeborn’s wife.” LOL! I don’t know why, but the image of Thranduil sitting naked in the bath while communicating with Galadriel just struck me as totally hilarious. It’s kind of endearing, really, that he’s so embarrassed – he knows she can’t see him but is still so totally appalled! It must have been very funny for Galadriel, though…. That was a great idea, to have them communicate. It’s good to know that Thranduil has some news of his son and I like that Galadriel quickly reassures him that they will look after Legolas in his grief. Galadriel as a character never really captured my interest, no matter how many times I read the books, but – as I’ve probably said before - your stories always depict her in a way that help me respect her a little more. I also like the way she seems quite motherly towards Thranduil here – as though she knows he needs some comfort. It’s actually good to see Tathar and Thranduil interact, just the two of them. They seem so totally at ease in each other’s company. “Your report on my ‘activities’ will have to wait until he returns” – of course Thranduil knew what was going on! I doubt very much escapes him. Tathar’s concern for him is so touching. I really liked the closing image. It’s wonderful that they can relax around each other, both knowing the extent of the other’s love for Legolas. Thranduil could easily have tried to prevent Tathar from “taking care” of him, but I’m so glad he’s allowing the closeness.

Dot · 4 January 2004 · Chapter 25: Separation

Yikes, Tathar should have known better than to try to deter Legolas once his mind was made up. It’s interesting that Tathar is looking at it more from a father’s perspective than as a friend, while Legolas is still trying to keep the promise they made so long ago. I suppose they would never have said such hurtful things if they didn’t truly care so deeply for one another and dread not only the imminent separation but the chance that they might never be reunited. I love the way you chose for them to reconcile – the idea of them talking through the night as close friends do, probably finally saying everything to each other that they wanted to. It’s a lovely image and I’m sure they’ll be glad they did so. Wow, that book seems to be completely intriguing! Thranduil and Elrond should be proud of themselves! I’m glad it helped Tathar understand his friend’s reasons for joining the quest, although it seems a pity that he didn’t read it a lot earlier and save himself some heartache. There’s a Dwarf going on the quest? The son of one that Thranduil imprisoned? No…perish the thought….!! That letter is so sad! It was a lovely idea, but I can only imagine how difficult it must be for him to write it, knowing he might never see the one to whom it was written again, as well as knowing the pain Thranduil will be experiencing if he ever does read it. It was beautifully written. I love the way Legolas uses it to try and convey exactly how much he loves his father and that he knows that he was loved in return, while also trying to maintain a note of hope that Thranduil would be able to find peace one day. The final moment between the two friends was lovely. Such a lonely closing image, though. Legolas really is showing such courage and strength of character. I doubt there would be many others who would agree to such an undertaking, at least not without more of their own kind included. Still, it just shows that Elrond obviously knew what he was doing!:)

Dot · 3 January 2004 · Chapter 24: Imladris

Ah, what an incredible way of writing around the events of the Council. I actually read this a couple of hours ago and it left me in tears so I had to go away and come back to it! I really like the interplay between Legolas and Elrond. “I know you better than you think, young Thranduilion, you are very much like your sire” LOL! Legolas should really just take that as a compliment and not think too much about it! Seriously, though, I like that Elrond seems to understand that Legolas has inherited his father’s fierce loyalty to his home and people but also clearly knows that it is all the qualities that his friend has instilled in his son that make him the perfect choice for the Fellowship. You summed up these qualities beautifully. I had never thought about the hobbits feeling comfortable with him before. “It is only fitting that Isildur’s heir attempt to undo the damage wrought by his forefather”. I thought that was really interesting. I mean, it makes perfect sense. I suppose it just held a note of blame that I was surprised at Elrond and Legolas for voicing. But…now that I think about it, that would be a feeling that many elves would share, particularly one such as Elrond who must feel utter dread at the thought of the horrors of the past repeating themselves, and one like Legolas who has seen the effect of the returning shadow on his home and probably grew up with tales of the failure of men. I am glad Elrond was able to impart such valuable advice to Legolas about his friendship with Aragorn. I suppose it’s probably one of the few things that his own father wouldn’t really be able to advise him on, but as Elrond says, he has had much experience in the area and can give him the guidance he needs. “We are kindred spirits, Legolas. One day I will lose him too.” That just struck me as so sad. It’s as though Elrond tries to live by his own advice but nevertheless cannot completely ignore the fact that he will one day suffer the loss of another loved one. Thranduil’s reaction to the news was perfect. As astute as always, he immediately realises the danger of the quest and unlikelihood of his son’s survival. It was amazing to watch the way Legolas gently but firmly reminds him that he is speaking as a father rather than a king. In fact, it must have taken a lot of effort from him to speak as a prince in the face of his father’s hurt and despair. ‘Go with the blessing of the King, and the love of your Adar,” said Thranduil as he buried his head into the silky golden tresses resting on his shoulder and wept.’ Aah, Jenolas, what a heartbreaking image. That’s where my tears started…to see the strong and proud king so unhappy. And then as if it wasn’t enough to see Thranduil’s heartache, Legolas goes and tells Tathar! I think I realised the root of Tathar’s anger right about the same moment Legoals did. I love the way he isn’t afraid to show Legolas the depth of his fear but as always remains a true friend and ultimately offers his support. I think he and Thranduil could help each other through this if they allow themselves. “He wants you to leave the darkness behind and take with you only the memory of the sounds of laughter and music as your people make merry under the stars.” I think I’m going to cry again! King Thranduil becomes Ada again and gives his son some happiness to cling to. Such a beautiful act when his heart was probably breaking. I love the understanding you have of the emotions of those involved here, and I think what I particularly love about this chapter is that you made me stop and think and helped me to see these events in a whole new way!:)

k8kat7@aol.com · 1 January 2004 · Chapter 1: The Early Years

Awesome story! How can you come up with such things?

Dot · 1 January 2004 · Chapter 23: Gollum

I just realised that this is chapter 23. Wow, that’s some achievement. This was a great chapter. I’m getting quite excited now! So Mithrandir just happens to turn up at yet another feast?! He’ll start to think that’s all they do! I love the way he keeps dropping hints of things to come. Tathar and Legolas are obviously used to him enough now to recognise a hint when they hear one. Pointless thought….every time I read the name ‘Mithrandir’, I hear it the way Denethor said it in the film of RotK. That might not seem annoying, but it really is….! Ah, the book! I had to laugh at the way Thranduil is thoroughly amused by his son’s reaction. He obviously did a great job keeping it secret from him! I always thought it was such a good idea of yours to have the elven rulers write their histories. How interesting it would be to read! You really write Gollum so well! I can completely see why anyone would be torn between despising him and pitying him. I feel so bad for the elves, though! It’s true that too much compassion was their biggest failing, and how sad that the times in which they live means that they can’t show such kindness. And poor Thranduil taking on the full weight of responsibility himself in order to comfort his son. That ending was really ominous! I really wanted to shout at him not to send Legolas to Imladris…. No doubt Thranduil will soon rue a lot more than allowing Gollum into his realm. Still, roll on Imladris…!:)

Dot · 1 January 2004 · Chapter 22: Secrets Revealed

Where on earth do you get your endless inspiration?! That story about the painting was wonderful! What a loving young elf Legolas was. I love the way you still brought Tathar into it and showed just how much fun the two friends had. I also like the way Legolas thinks nothing of deferring to Tathar’s greater knowledge of writing. It’s quite nice to think as well that Tathar has some part in the gift. “Fortunately Legolas had thought to depict his Ada wearing his crown of leaves; otherwise the King might not have been exactly certain which of the figures was meant to represent him”. I seriously nearly fell off the chair laughing at that image! You really are so funny sometimes, Jenolas! Oh, and I love the little glimpses of Elisiel you give us now and then. So sad, though, when we see how happy they all were. Especially the obvious passion that still existed between Thranduil and Elisiel. “I like the way I am to be punished,” Elisiel had told her son”. *stares blankly* Now, I wonder what she could possibly have meant…. As with Tathar in the last chapter, it’s so hard to find fault with Thranduil’s disapproval of his son’s friendship with Aragorn when he so clearly has Legolas’ best interests at heart. I love the nonchalant way Tathar asks Aragorn “So you are the rightful King of Men?” Yep, king of men. No big deal…. I thought the end was really interesting, seeing Aragorn accept Legolas’ lead without question when the complete reverse will soon happen. I’m glad Tathar is beginning to respect Aragorn. Maybe it will help him understand the choice Legolas will make. Who knows? Well, you do, obviously….! Oh – and Happy New Year!:)

Dot · 26 December 2003 · Chapter 21: Evil Awakes

Oh look, it’s Estel! “Estel caught his glance and in the moment that grey eyes held eyes filled with star light the flame of friendship was kindled in both their hearts”. Ah, lovely. It’s such a wonderful image and a beautiful idea that they connected immediately. I really like the way Legolas can sense the power and majesty innate to Aragorn even at his young age. There’s a great sense of friendship between them all – Estel certainly fits right in with the other mischief-makers! I always love your little elvish touches, like Legolas singing to the trees – and I particularly loved the sentence “Nay, my horse speaks freely with Adar, and just to be certain, I am plaiting a part of his mane in the fashion that says the rider is unharmed” I don’t know why, but it’s an image that really makes me smile! I don’t know if it’s the love and concern Legolas shows for his father or the idea of Thranduil having a conversation with a horse…!! I can see why Tathar is disturbed by Legolas’ friendship with Estel – although I do feel bad that he didn’t treat Estel with a little more respect. I’m glad he was able to tell Legolas of his fears and it says so much about their relationship that they understand each other and Tathar is not just willing to let Legolas do what he must but promises to be there for him if he needs his friend. Great sense of sudden panic at the end – you can’t stop there!!!

Dot · 26 December 2003 · Chapter 20: Shadows of the Past

So sorry I didn’t review this earlier…. I hope you had a good Christmas! I got a bit of a shock when I realised how far you’d come with this story – I had to stop in surprise at the line “Thranduil decided to march after the Dwarves who had escaped his dungeons”!! I really like the way you wrote this, showing the tragic contrast between Lake-town as Legolas and his friends had previously known it and the ruins left now. You paintesd such a melancholy picture of the aftermath of the battle – I can completely understand Legolas’ despair and anger that this is what the Shadow is doing to the world. He seems to understand that it will take more separation and loss before there is any chance of peace. I’m so attached to Tathar now that I can’t bear the thought that they will be split up when Legolas leaves on the quest! The memories of the trip to the town that they took with Elladan and Elrohir were hilarious. I can just picuture the utter nuisances they made of themselves. I actually felt sorry for the girl’s poor suitor sitting in a corner watching tttwo handsome elves flirting with her. I bet Glorfindel got a kick out of that story… Ah well, at least they have good memories of Lake-town to replace the image of it lying in ruins. Oh, and in answer to your question…ahem…I chickened out of bringing the picture to work…I don’t think my boss would really understand why I’d want a picture of half-naked people with long hair and pointy ears on my desk. But it’s still set as my desktop background on my computer at home!

Dot · 13 December 2003 · Chapter 19: Laketown Revisited

I love the idea of these Council members bringing a certain sense of peace to Mirkwood. It really gives a clear picture of their combined power. I thought it was great that you showed the undercurrent of uneasiness that remains and the sense of foreboding that Thranduil feels. I see Saruman is already trying to mislead them, and the council meeting hasn’t even begun. I love the relationship between Elrond and Thranduil as well – not only can Elrond sense that his friend is troubled but Thranduil seems to confide in him, instead of attempting to hide his suffering. Well, at least the younger elves seem to be taking the opportunity for some relaxation! The story-telling was great – I thought the tale of Tathar and Legolas sabotaging each other’s boats was hilarious, and Thranduil proved as ingenious as ever at concocting a punishment! I imagine this rare peace is about to be broken with Elladan and Elrohir around…!:)