Reviews (75)

The Karenator · 21 October 2003 · Chapter 7: A Stranger Well Met

jenolas, Another wonderful chapter. The aftermath of the battle was well described. Legolas feeling remorse for having to leave the body of the man and Thranduil's agreement that it should be tended was a good note. My favorite line was Tathar's... “Ai, we spent several hours forgiving each other.” It was funny and quite sweet. I was also amused by Legolas's worry that his adar would seek out the spiders. Funny how things reverse, isn't it. The town scene was great. You gave good details so that I could see the reactions of the people seeing elves. Mithrandir was exceptionally well portrayed. He was mysterious and uncannily accurate. I guess that's because he's a wizard, huh? I am still really enjoying these snippets of life in Mirkwood and look forward to more. Very well done. Karen

LKK · 21 October 2003 · Chapter 5: New Paths

Thank goodness Tathar has returned to his more responsible self. I'm very glad to see that. Tariel, as the over-protective chaperone, made me laugh. I don't think any couple in Mirkwood -- romantic or not! -- was as well-supervised as Legolas and Mirieth from the sounds of it. And how sweet that Legolas is beginning to see the merit in finding his own soul mate! Sorry for the short review, jenolas, but I'm trying to catch up on this wonderful story. LKK

Dot · 21 October 2003 · Chapter 7: A Stranger Well Met

Hiya! Sorry, only time for a quick review tonight, but I’m afraid to leave it til tomorrow or you’ll have gone and updated...! I really liked the feeling of progression in this chapter. There was a great sense of Thranduil’s rage and despair as well as his determination to do anything he could to help rid his home of evil. Nice touch with the return of the dead man to his people. It shows how anxious Tathar and Legolas were that they didn’t do anything about him as well as the elves’ sense of what is right when both Thranduil and Mirieth insist that they do not leave the man where he was found. You did a great job showing the effect of the two elves’ visit on the villagers – I loved the picture of the children sitting around Legolas as he sings to them as well the moment when he wipes the tear from the woman’s eye. The description of the dark changes in the forest was absolutely spinechilling – you described it so vividly. For some reason I just LOVE the thought of Thranduil sitting by a campfire leading his people in song! Maybe it’s the idea of him trying to instil hope in the hearts of the warriors with him and in their beloved trees…or maybe it’s just ‘cos he doesn’t sing often enough.... Ah Mithrandir! What power he exudes. I don’t imagine Thranduil generally trusts complete strangers implicitly so it’s amazing the effect Mithrandir has on him. The end was wonderfully enigmatic. Although, something tells me Thranduil won’t allow himself to be completely at ease yet...

TolkienFan · 18 October 2003 · Chapter 6: A New Threat

Ah, good story! Nice touch about Legolas being nervous about entering Elrond's study, and Elrond having already removed the shells out of concern for his Lothlorien and Mirkwood guests. Glorfindel's teasing seems so in-character, somehow. Legolas and Tathar seem to have handled the spider incident very well, especially the part about saving some venom. I would have liked to see some resolution on the Man's body, though -- surely the elves didn't just leave it in the forest unburied? Returning it to the village would have been a very responsible - and compassionate - thing to do; or at least burning or burying it. (Thranduil could send a second party to do that - it doesn't have to be Tathar's party, since they obviously needed to get to the healers immediately.) Thranduil's love and concern for his son and Tathar are very evident in this story. P.S. I'm glad that I went back to read chapter 4 as a result of seeing some of the reviews. The description of the competition really filled a gap there. Nice work!

Dot · 18 October 2003 · Chapter 6: A New Threat

Ah, just A trip then – I was getting ahead of myself! As always, I love the way you create a sense of magic. It really adds to the beauty and mystery of the elves in the way you describe Imladris as hidden from all but Elf kind. There’s a lovely softness and tranquillity about the place as well. “Not always affectionately, I expect,” said Elrond lightly. LOL! I’d say he knows exactly what Thranduil has to say about him at times.... I really liked the little piece about Legolas being wary of entering Elrond’s study. After all, it hasn’t been long since his mother left and this is the place where she first became afflicted – it must have been a painful reminder to Legolas when he was told that this is where the meeting would be. So, others too have noticed the deep friendship between Tathar and Legolas. And you just gotta love Glorfindel! Of course he knew very well what had happened with the archery contest and he just couldn’t resist teasing them! I though there was something quite heartrending about the sorrow of the elves when they lament the shadow spreading across their land and destroying their beloved trees. Yikes, spiders! Proof that darkness has entered Greenwood, at least. It is good to see that both Legolas and Tathar have developed a sense of maturity and responsibility - especially when Thranduil is so proud of them! – but it’s sad in a way that this is forced upon them and all of Thranduil’s people as their home begins to become more dangerous. The end was interesting, when Legolas realises some of what the future may hold for him. Again it’s sad that he does not have the choices he might once have had but at least he realises that he does not want to cause pain to anyone, especially as he probably knows that this is exactly what he already may do to his father and best friend. The final line was a lovely touch with the introduction of Greenwood’s new name and a clear understanding of the sad circumstances that led to this. Poor Thranduil, how hard it must be for him to watch his lands slowly be consumed by darkness. See, no questions! I don’t why you thought I’d have any....;)

The Karenator · 17 October 2003 · Chapter 6: A New Threat

jenolas, What a good chapter. The descriptions of Rivendell were wonderful. I couldn't help but smile at Glorfindel's comments. Not much gets past him! I felt the sadness of the elves as they realized evil was reawakening. In my mind's eys I could see the mirky gloom taking over the southern regions and the contrast that it drew to the beauty of the untouched forest. And now...spiders! Quick thinking on Legolas's part to take the venom. That's a great detail! Very good flow to this chapter...it just ran smoothly. I'm ready for the next.....:>) Karen

The Karenator · 17 October 2003 · Chapter 5: New Paths

jenolas, I'm sorry...my computer is acting a bit strange. Back to the review....another good glimpse into Mirkwood. Thranduil is forgiving and the young guys are trying to be good. I wonder how long that will last? I'm enjoying following this progression of stories and look forward to the next. ...(which, btw, you have gotten the next chapter posted before I got this one reviewed)...so off to the next one....:>)Karen

Dot · 15 October 2003 · Chapter 5: New Paths

First I just want to say that I really like the additions to the fourth chapter. It was a great way to link it to your other story (is it ‘Family’??) with the rivalry between Haldir and Legolas as well as the establishment of their almost equal talent. I also thought that the idea of Legolas being injured because he was trying to help Tathar gave more substance to the chapter and not only showed their bond but gave more meaning to Tathar’s guilt and even Thranduil’s anger if he knew about it. Chapter 5 was great! I loved the moment shared between Thranduil and Legolas. LOL at the thought of Thranduil getting into trouble with Oropher!! Those elves just cannot resist showing off… And it looks like the rivalry between Imladris and Mirkwood was always there! I’m still laughing at the line “it seems we are both quite like our adars in some ways,” commented Legolas, eliciting a look of pride from Thranduil, who apparently liked the idea immensely” – I can just picture Thranduil totally thrilled and it wasn’t even quite a compliment...! Tariel’s causing a bit of bother, is she?! I love the way she tests Thranduil’s mood to see how far she can go with him. She’s such a mother figure and certainly seems to have a lot of influence, if not control, over the king and prince! I’m glad Tathar and Thranduil have reconciled. And wow, he has promoted them and allowed them to serve together. I really like the way in the last part you began to heighten the tension in the background and showed the ominous effect of the Shadow begin to spread. Is this THE trip to Imladris then, or just A trip to Imladris?!! I suppose I’ll just wait and see…!:)

LKK · 15 October 2003 · Chapter 4: The Wager

It was nice to see you touch a subject area that isn't often explored, jenolas. I'm talking about Legolas' training in his royal responsibilities. Although you didn't detail them, the fact that you talked about them and their effects on Legolas himself is far more than most stories concerning his youth do. I'm glad to see you cover that area. On the other hand ... boys will be boys, even if they're elves. Always testing the limits of what they can get away with. Tathar's idea to trick the King and get Legolas to the archery tournament seemed very unworthy of him. I hope it's not a permanent change in his personality. And Legolas definitely needs to learn to not be swayed against his better judgement! LKK

Sivan · 15 October 2003 · Chapter 4: The Wager

Very good chapter. I can't wait to read more...please update soon...please

The Karenator · 14 October 2003 · Chapter 4: The Wager

jenolas, Very good. I read this the other day and came back to post a review and I think it's longer or slightly changed from before. Either that or I'm more senile that I thought. I liked what I think was added. There was more depth and explanation of what happened at the tournament. My thought as I read this was that elven males must have their share of testosterone. Just can't turn down a challenge! What's a little deceit when there's a contest to be had? Well, it went bad, just as it could have been predicted. Fortunately, no one was fatally wounded. Looks like the friends are going to be taking an enforced break from one another. Thranduil was a bit peeved. I like the realistic view of these high spirited youths. I know they practiced a bit of deception, but it's good to see Legolas as not perfect, but going through the process of growing and learning just like everyone else...and that includes mistakes. And they had the good sense and upbringing to be ashamed! We are seing the makings of the elf to come. I hope there is more. :>)

LKK · 14 October 2003 · Chapter 3: A Time of Tears

Very touching, jenolas. The last sentence of the chapter packed quite a punch. Legolas' sadness mixed with anger was a very human response. (If you'll forgive the use of the term "human".) Nicely depicted. I liked how you took a traditional fanfiction convention -- a rift between Thranduil and Elrond -- and gave it a nontraditional explanation. Hopefully that rift won't continue beyond Elisiel's stop at Imladris. LKK

Dot · 13 October 2003 · Chapter 4: The Wager

Oh good, Thranduil and Elrond have made up. That must have been difficult for Thranduil - he must really love his wife to swallow his pride when she asks. I really like the idea of Glorfindel going to the Havens with Thranduil - I just feel happier knowing he had someone like that to offer strength and comfort...! Tathar is deceiving the king?! What's come over him? He seems to have acquired a daring spirit somewhere. He also appears to have learned his lesson,though. I can understand Thranduil being so angry with him - he probably wouldn't have been if he hadn't come so close to losing his only child so soon after his wife left. I do love these little interludes of yours!

Dot · 12 October 2003 · Chapter 3: A Time of Tears

Ah, you answered my question about how Elisiel becomes inflicted. That was a really interesting idea. No wonder poor Thranduil lost his head with Elrond, irrational though he may have been. You did a great job showing the way the news affected Legolas - grief to anger and back again. I liked that he tried to put his grief aside to allow his mother more peace at their parting. I can't imagine how difficult it must have been for him to watch her leave - and that part where he suddenly wonders if Thranduil will be affected and leave him too was heartbreaking. Tathar was a wonderful friend here, I thought. He obviously knows Legolas well and allowed him to vent his emotions before trying to make him see the situation from his parents' point of view. Without Tathar it seems Legolas might not have come through this tough time. Oh, and I thought the image at the end was very powerful - of the strong warrior suddenly a little boy again wishing for his mother to come back. Wonderfully written!:)

The Karenator · 12 October 2003 · Chapter 3: A Time of Tears

jenloas, Wow! This is my favorite so far. You captured the strong emotions well and gave good depth and dimension to your characters. Legolas's struggle was particularly well described. I read many fics and some I think are wonderfully written, but it is a rare one that brings tears to my eyes....I'm just too cold hearted, I guess :>)....but the pain in this family was so tangible that I felt like I was there with them. Really...really liked this one....beautifully written. Karen

Sivan · 12 October 2003 · Chapter 3: A Time of Tears

More please. You did it well, yet again. So, when Legolas will be again in the pool? I just curious that's all. More please...please.

LKK · 11 October 2003 · Chapter 2: A Major Event

How sweet that Tathar is shy around the elf ladies! Legolas may not approve of his mother's indulging in palace gossip but he definitely shares her penchant for matchmaking. (And he'll eventually learn the importance of listening to palace gossip, I'm sure.) I'm sorry that Elisiel has heard the call of the sea. Will her departure be the subject of an upcoming chapter? Knowing your past writings, I'm sure that chapter will be achingly bittersweet. This chapter, on the other hand, was like a champagne bubble ... light, airy, and filled with rainbows of light. LKK

LKK · 11 October 2003 · Chapter 1: The Early Years

Tears welled unbidden in Thranduil’s eyes as the sweet voice of Tathar enquired innocently when they would be going to Mandos to visit his ada and grandada. Such a simple sentence. Such heart-wrenching emotion. Wonderfully written. We were trying to escape grandnana’s wooden spoon. Such a simple sentence. Such humor. Wonderfully written. I'm noticing a pattern here, jenolas. ... A pattern that indicates you are once again writing a great story. :-) LKK

Dot · 11 October 2003 · Chapter 2: A Major Event

Aaaw, Tathar is so sweet! He was really frightened at the thought of expressing his feelings to Mirieth, wasn’t he?! And it seems that Legolas enjoys meddling in affairs of the heart just as much as his mother, no matter how disapproving he seemed. I liked the argument scene. They have such a wonderful friendship but it wouldn’t seem entirely realistic if they didn’t have the odd misunderstanding. Elisiel is a great character. She obviously loves her husband and son deeply and seems determined to allow them some happy times despite her own sadness. What awoke her desire to sail West, I wonder? It’s quite sad, really, to think that at such a joyous time Legolas was completely unaware of his parents sorrow. I’m glad he has such a friend as Tathar to help him when the day comes that his mother departs.

Dot · 11 October 2003 · Chapter 1: The Early Years

This is a great idea of yours. I really liked Tathar in “Lost and Found” so it’s good to see more of him, and it’s also a wonderful chance to get a glimpse of some scenes from Legolas’ life. Plus, the way you’ve pulled the characters together so far is giving lovely depth to life in Mirkwood. The start was so sad! The idea of them all returning and having to break such tragic news to devastated families was so heartbreaking – I even had to take a moment to compose myself when Thranduil ran into his mother’s arms! The signs are already there, though, of what a great king he will be when he sets aside his own grief to comfort others. *snigger* I love Tariel and the relationship she has with the king. I guess he’ll always be a mischievous elfling to her... I think the closeness between Tathar and Legolas is beautiful to see, especially the loyalty they feel towards each other and protectiveness that Tathar seems to feel for Legolas that goes so far beyond prince and subject. Thranduil and Legolas seem to treat Tathar as family and I suppose he feels the same. The taunting of the other elves was very realistic. I’m so glad Tathar stood up for his friend – it seems to have strengthened his bond with Legolas and Thranduil certainly appreciated the sentiment.

The Karenator · 11 October 2003 · Chapter 2: A Major Event

jenolas, Very good addition. I especially liked the explanation as to why the two friends could not serve together. I felt a bit for Legolas as I'm certain he would be nervous about his first patrol and hoped for the comforting presence of his friend. But I understand why the king and the captains wanted them separated. It seemed as if Legoals understood, too, but he wasn't happy about it. The feast was fun. Poor Tathar. Where the matters of the heart are concerned, it can certainly cloud one's judgement. Tathar was a brewing thunder storm when he thought Legolas was cutting in. I'm glad it worked out for Tathar and Mirieth. The mention of the Queen's sea longing was sad. Eventually, Legolas will lose his naneth and the full attention of his best friend. At least the loss of Tathar's free time with him was a happy one and I'm sure Legolas can share his friend. We know Legolas will eventually leave and more changes will come. Growing up brings so many changes. The two friends are moving into different stages of life. I look forward to next installment. Karen

Jay of Lasgalen · 10 October 2003 · Chapter 1: The Early Years

A very nice start. I like the friendship between Legolas and Tathar (I think I've come across another Tathar somewhere - the name sounds familiar.) I especially like the way Tathar defends his friend's honour when certain suggestions are made. I look forward to more. Jay

The Karenator · 10 October 2003 · Chapter 1: The Early Years

Jenolas, Very good. I like how you explained the back story about the heavy losses the Greenwood took at the Last Alliance and the care of responsibity Thranduil felt for Tathar and his family. Tathar presents as something of an older brother for Legolas and his anger at the insults delivered by the other trainees was well done. They were out of line and possibly jealous of Legolas's skill and Tathar's closeness to the prince. Thranduil's advice for handling the situation was wise. The moment did give both friends an opportunity to realize and declare their devotion to each other, something they probably knew on some level but had been unspoken until then. I'm looking forward to the next glimpse into their adventures.

Sivan · 10 October 2003 · Chapter 1: The Early Years

This is very good, more please. I can't wait for more...

daw the minstrel · 10 October 2003 · Chapter 1: The Early Years

Well-written as always. I like the fact that you took up a realistic taunt and dealt with it rationally. Tathar gets angry but things don't fall apart and Thranduil knows the best thing is to ignore it.