Reviews (247)

Brenda G. · 10 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Enemies

Okay, Daw, that was very wicked of you - ending this chapter the way you did and making your readers wait with baited breath for who it was of the Home Guard that now resides in the Halls of Waiting. I hope it is not who I think it is, but I have a very bad feeling about this. Thank goodness the rain finally came to stop the fire from devouring everything. I have to tell you, that my heart was in my throat more than a few times during this chapter. I wasn't sure if there was going to be enough time for Celuwen and Legolas to get out of the settlement. That knock on Legolas' head must have also addled his sense of priority. Clothes? Who thinks of clothing when death is riding down upon you? Maybe it was the head injury that scrambled his brain into this very unlike-Legolas thinking. I'm glad Celuwen found his misplaced sence of pride amusing, because I was ready to clout our princeling senseless and toss him across the back of his horse like so much baggage in order to preserve him to us. I was also unsure if anyone remaining at the settlement to fight the fire would survive (such a desperate situation), and I was very afraid that Eilian through his distraction with Legolas, Celuwen and the fire on the ridge would have presence of mind to keep himself from getting killed by an Orc. What a tangled web! And we are still not out of it! And you were worried whether or not you could pull this chapter off? No worries on that score... Well, I can only say that my anxiety in awaiting the next chapter is quite exquisite at this point. I am squirming and will continue to until your next post, so I do hope it is soon. I wonder what Thranduil will make of everything that has happened while he has been out of pocket. He may NEVER leave the Woodland Realm again if this is how things transpire while in his absence. Good chapter; ready for more!

Laura · 10 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Enemies

Wow, an update already! Sometimes I think you have magical powers. I'm sorry to say that I've been busy and haven't reviewed as I should. Legolas in the midst of the fire saying "I fell of my horse" just had me cracking up. You do such a good job of bringing out his personality in tense situations. WHO DIED? I really, really hope it wasn't Siondel. Please update soon. (What am I saying, this is you) -Laura

Jebb · 10 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Enemies

I have a very bad feeling about which elf has died I so hope I am wrong. Eilian has truly come of age as a leader the descriptions of the fire and the orc battle were amazing and poor Legolas the humiliation of falling off his horse well at least he had some clothes on! thank you

Fadesintothewest · 10 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Enemies

Oh no what a horrible cliff hanger?! OMG, this chapter was full of excitement, tension, and a great and fun read. I could literally feel the heat singing me too! Wonderful and captivating action filled chapter, one of the best if not the best I have read!

Antigone_Q · 9 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Enemies

Once again, Eilian and Celuwen have to make sacrifices that conflict with their personal feelings. Good for Celuwen for being so calm in the face of danger. She really took charge here! I don't envy Celuwen one bit telling her father she isn't going to help soak the cottages: it's not easy to stand up against people you respect, particularly when there is so much at stake. I had a laugh-out-loud moment when Legolas was upset about falling off his horse. Was very consistant with the character as you've showed him so far. Ah, a cliff-hanger! Well, as long as it's not Annael, I won't be too upset. Post again soon!

Elemmire · 9 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Enemies

That's cruel, daw, very cruel. :), Elemmire PS-I don't suppose Eilian could use a long, drawn-out bath scene at this point? ;)

The Karenator · 9 November 2003 · Chapter 8: Enemies

OH NO! Who is it? Not Siondel! I think he's the only one we know...I can't think of any other names...I'm in such shock. Shoot...I'm not sure I can continue the review. Give me a minute.... Okay....This chapter was certainly full of action. The description of the orcs fleeing was excellent. They're in such a panic that they don't even see the elves until it's too late and then it seems they would rather run like the dickens than fight. I can't say I blame them. As difficult as it was, Eilian does his duty and leads his troops well. I felt sorry for Celuwen. What a difficult choice to make. But she had promised to see to Legolas's safety and she now recognizes that her heart is lost to the captain of the southern patrol. I just hope her parents have the sense to know when to give up...if it comes to that....I'm holding out hope for the rain. Losing them would be asking a lot of her and the guilt would be tremendous. Her father is such an old mule! Maybe her mother will slap some sense into him when she sees Celuwen flee to safety with Legolas and the warrior. I feel a little guilty myself, but I laughed at Legolas's reaction to falling off Pilin. As only the over-confident and unworldly young can muster...he was mortified! And fell on his orc-begotten foot! I also got a smile out of him refusing to go without his clothes. Well, I can understand that! What a well done chapter! Full of action, decisions being made and duties to be performed...and the sorrow of the loss of one yet to be named. Please don't let it be Annael's father....I feel kind of sick to my stomach....Oh Daw....(I need a hug!) Karen

Jay of Lasgalen · 9 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

I liked this chapter, but I do feel worried about Legolas - he is unable to concentrate on a conversation, and is still being sick. It's bad news for him if he has to be evacuated, as I'm sure will happen. I hope both he and his carer will be all right, and that the settlement will survive - I foresee angst ahead if it's burned down, with or without Celuwen(?) And what will Thranduil do when he finds out about his son and his forest? Jay

Fadesintothewest · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

Arghh, those settlement Elves are sure a stubborn crew. Sólith and Félas are being mightly selfish. It is a hard thing for them to admit, I'm sure that there homes are not the safest for their family. They have to see that their king only does what is best for his people. I see where Celuwen gets her stubborness too. It seems that what they think is standing up to Shadow is actually self-defeating and going to lead to more heartache than there needs to be. I am ready to march over to Celuwen & have a talk with her, after all the greatest love in Middle Earth has been born out of the greatest sacrifice and courage to be together despite insurrmountable odds. Celuwen, here I come!

Lera · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

Another great chapter. Maybe I'm just slow, but couldn't the elves in the settlement soak their cottages and then leave? And if they're expecting the fire to get that close to their homes, where exactly are they all planning to be? Huddled inside their watered down houses? The whole plan just seems really risky. If the fire is strong enough to jump the break, it doesn't sound like they'll be able to control it once it's in the settlement. Maybe there's more to it than the pain of having to rebuild their cottages. Maybe they see evacuating as failure, almost like admitting they were wrong and that where they're living really is too dangerous. Pride. Oh, good grief,let's all just pray for rain. Poor Legolas is still sick. Throwing up is the most awful feeling! Celuwen seems to be a wonderful nerse, though. Poor girl. I really admire her, doing what she truly believes to be right, even though it's not necessarily what she wants. Although I think she does love the woods. Just like Eilien thrives on danger, not necessarily battles. Oh, I want them to be together so bad! But I don't see how it's ever going to happen! These characters have become so real to me! Every bit as real as Frodo and Sam and Gandalf and Aragorn... Thanks for making my day!

Arbelethiel · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

I share Eilian’s frustration. I don’t think there’s anything material that is worth a life, any life, and the obstinacy of the settlers is really maddening. They built a home for themselves here, they can do it again, but only if they’re still alive. And of course, the fact that Celuwen is one of the settlers make things all the more akward for Eilian. I like Celuwen a lot. She has the poise that is lacking in Eilian, and she would probably be a good influence on him. I also think she would get along with Thranduil very well. She has many of the qualities he appreciates: loyalty to her family and her community, a sense of duty that comes before her personal comfort. Besides, she would probably be able to smooth out the relationship between Thranduil and Eilian. Now Eilian and Sólith... Legolas can be very perceptive about people, as long as he is not involved personally. I wonder what he will do with this knowledge. I dearly hope he won’t try to “help” them. They are old enough to resolve their problems on their own, and he would only create difficulties, even with good intentions. Another wonderful chapter (except that there was no Thranduil :( ). Thanks, ~Arbelethiel

tigerlily713 · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

What a lovely chapter. The tension between Eilian and Celuwen was very real. The last little part, where Legolas wonders if Eilian is aware of Celuwen's love, was very sweet. Well done, Lily

Antigone_Q · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

You update so quickly, Daw - I didn't get a chance to review the last chapter...or rather, I did, but my computer ate it and I didn't have the energy to type it over again just yet. One of the things that struck me in chapter six is how much Eilian and Thranduil are alike. I finally saw this when Thranduil gets tired of the council blathering on and gets really worried about his realm and Legolas, so he jumps up and gets ready to go home. Then somewhere near the bottom of the chapter Legolas opens his eyes for a second, and Eilian gets worried and jumps up to go pound on the healer's door. I KNOW you have pointed out before that both father and son have a strong sense of family ties and an impatient/stubborn streak, but up until now I had focused on their differences. By the way, I liked the scene where Gandalf is folding Thranduil's clothes while he packs. That was very Tolkien-wizard-y, to me. Interesting to see what Eilian looks like when taking charge. In general, he seems to have good sense about people, and usually very diplomatic. I bet he and Ithilden work very well together - when they agree. I begin to admire Celuwen more and more. I can see how she might feel as if bonding with Eilian was unwise. But she and Eilian are both so caring, I can't help but feel as if what they really need is a cottage full of Elflings to cuddle (You could precede this by a nice steamy story line, of course ). I admit it. I secretly like hurt/comfort stories, and therefore, I really loved this chapter. And I guess you can't go too far wrong with an unclothed Legolas.

Dot · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

Ai, Sólith! I was wondering if he’d turn up. Looks like he hasn’t mellowed towards Eilian, anyway. Eilian may have argued with him but I thought he kept his temper well under control considering his anxiety about Legolas and frustration at these elves’ determination to remain in the settlement. I don’t know anything about fires but Sólith’s proposal didn’t seem very reliable. I can understand their desire to live in the settlement, but like Eilian I can’t comprehend why they would sacrifice their people in order to save their homes. Poor Annael. He clearly won’t be reassured until he sees that Legolas is well. And I’m glad to see Maltanaur is still looking after Eilian! It was rather, um....sneaky of Eilian to aske Celuwen to go with Legolas. It’s playing on her feelings a bit – I mean, she could hardly refuse to look after his injured brother. Still, I’d say she knew exactly what he was doing and the fact that she didn’t argue shows how much she really does want to do this for him. I love watching Eilian with Legolas. Out of all his family, Eilian is probably the closest to a mother-figure that Legolas has in many ways. He was so gentle and reassuring in this scene that it brought tears to my eyes! Orcs?? After all this I imagine Eilian will be too glad to get back to the Southern Patrol....! Celuwen seems to be making herself miserable. I can see why she tried to distance herself from Eilian but it seems to me that if they bonded and something did happen to Eilian she might be better able to deal with that than this constant misery. Of course, it does seem selfish from the point of view that he could just as easily lose her in these dangerous times but if he’s willing to take that chance then perhaps they should. I guess I just think that any happiness is better than none. They surely can’t spend the rest of their lives avoiding each other. Their duty does mean that they have different obligations but this is probably true of many in Mirkwood and at least their ultimate goal is the same. A tough one. Like I say, I really can’t wait to see what eventually happens to these two! I really liked the scene with Celuwen and Legolas. She’s wonderful with him, and it must feel good to him to have a caring female presence. I knew he didn’t remember the events after his mother’s death but it must be strange to find out that his brother was so worried about him. It’s also interesting that Celuwen feels she can understand Legolas’ feelings that time at the dance. She’s so right about Eilian being loving. He seems to have a magnetic personality and those he loves feel immediately possessive of him. She and Eilian really need to talk – her feelings must be very transparent if even a sick and injured Legolas can read them! This was a great chapter – you do such a good job with emotional turmoil!:)

JustMe · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

We get a look at Eilian being a little manipulative in this chapter. He will go to no lengths to make sure that the ones he cares about are protected. I hope that the two he is so protective of realize how lucky they are. I wish that Celuwen's father was a little more receptive of Eilian. The two of them simply have a different view of what is important to them. And they also have a difficult time accepting an opinion that differs from their own. They are actually very much alike in that respect. I suppose that is why they don't get along very well! We also get a chance to see into Celuwen's mind and heart. I understand why she hesitates to let herself get close to Eilian. But at least now we know how she feels, and that she would indeed be a more than worthy match for Eilian. I think that Legolas would make a powerful allay in getting these two together. I can just imagine him playing matchmaker (somehow the vision of Legolas dressed as Cupid pops into my mind!). Anyway, I will be waiting anxiously to find out what happens when the fire reaches the village!

Tapetum Lucidum · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

Man, that was great! Now it is Eilian's turn to play the diplomat. I don't think he quite has the skills of Ithilien or Thranduil. Trying to negotiate with his girlfriend's father is a bad, bad, bad idea. What was he thinking?! Obviously Felas and Solith are not thinking either. They should always have an evacuation plan. A fire is very unpredictable. They are definitely not the leaders that the Oropherions are. One good decision Eilian made was to back away from the planning, knowing that he would only impair the discussion, and letting Vilmar and Siondel handle it. You handled the tension/animosity very well. I could tell there was a strong dislike but they managed to stay civil. Great job! Poor Annael! It was an accident but who could help from feeling guilty? Eilian made another good decision to keep him away from Legolas for the time being. Eilian's plan is a good one! It will hopefully keep Legolas and Celuwen safe. It may also put them in more danger - moving between the fire and the orcs. I hope for Eilian's sake they are ok, the guilt would be terrible if anything happened to Celuwen when he manuvered to have her safe. I hope for my sake something does happen because I am evil. Maltanaur is great! I hope he takes care of Legolas when he makes his pledge. You showed his concern both for the youngest and the middle child of Thranduil. It was very sweet. Eilian's manipulation of the situation may come back to haunt him. He is almost using Legolas to control Celuwen. Not a good habit. He knew exactly how to get her to do what he wanted. I am worried about the outcome. His scene with Legolas was very sweet. His paternal side was definetly coming out, stroking his hair and kissing him goodbye. I love the Legolas angst. It is so fun to watch the poor guy suffer. Is Celuwen the luckiest elleth alive? She has Eilian wrapped around her fingers and is sponging off Legolas' backside. Suddenly, I want to be her. Her care for the archer was very sweet and tender. I am starting to like her. Legolas is not so out of it that he can't see her care for his brother. I liked how she braided his hair to keep it out of his way. It is always a problem when you are puking. Great chapter! I will be wondering all weekend what is going to happen with Celuwen and Legolas' flight from the village if the fire comes and how Eilian will deal with the outcome if something happens to her. Tapetum

Brenda G. · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

Where to start... This (so far) is my favorite chapter. Can't say why-- Maybe it's because there's so much Eilian in it! The inner struggle that he and Celuwen are going through separately and together is grueling, but my appetite is as whetted as theirs awaiting the outcome of this rejoining. How hard it must have been on both of them - to love each other but also be so totally devoted to battling Shadow the only way they each know how - Eilian as a warrior sworn to defend, protect and even die for his people, and Celuwen to brave whatever the consequences of she and the little knot of settlers stubbornly holding the line against Shadow by giving up the comfort and safety that would gladly be extended to them by Thranduil if only they would acquiesce. Celuwen is right. What is she going to do? She and Eilian are hopelessly in love, and it is very plain to all (except perhaps to Celuwen's father) that these two are destined to be together. Well, Daw, this is a situation that only you can resolve, so we will leave it in your capable hands. Orcs? Now? Oh, brother! Eilian is correct. That's all they need on top of everything else that is taking place. I do hope that Thranduil is now beginning to feel the distress of two sons, rather than one, and hastens to add his considerable strength to the war to come against nature and Shadow. Thank goodness Ithilden is holding down the fort at home, as all of our other major players are quite busy at present trying to preserve themselves and the Woodland Realm from further destruction. I'm glad that Legolas is beginning to mend. Celuwen's gentle ministrations to Thranduil's youngest are making me fall in love with her, too. She seems so lovely inside, where it matters most. I think it was pretty shrewd of Legolas, especially in his dazed condition, to figure out that Celuwen is in love with his brother. I guess Elves must have built-in radar for this type of thing that does not necessarily depend on a blood bond as would exist between members of the same family. Given that they are creatues of such heightened senses, a certain amount of that is to be expected. It is often reported that human twins share this type of bond and somehow sense each other and the other's feelings when they are separated. Well, I am so ready for the next chapter that I am about to POP! What a great way to start the weekend - a new, exciting, fulfilling chapter from you. Thanks for the great write. Keep 'em coming! BG

mer · 8 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

A very beatiful chapter!

The Karenator · 7 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

daw, I really liked this chapter. The settlement leaders are as hard headed as the king and his sons. I can see why they butt into each other whenever they cross paths. I found myself thinking that Solith might not survive the night. If he doesn't then Celuwen will not feel so obligated to stay in the settlement and he is, imo, not making decisions that will not see to his and his family's safety. I suppose I can understand why he wants to stay, but fire and orcs are knocking on his door. Ignoring facts will not make them go away. I wonder if he is not only hardheaded, but unwilling to capitulate to anything Eilian might suggest. I liked this Celuwen better. I understood where she was coming from in the last chapter (when I was talking ugly about her!)....holding Eilian at arm's length, but your explanation of this was very good in letting us inside her head. And she took such kind and gentle care of Legolas. I doubt she was fooled by Eilian's request to accompany Legolas, but I'm glad she agreed. It was a bit of a revelation for Legolas to realize that she was in love with Eilian...even as woozy as he is. I'm a little concerned for the youngest Thranduilion. That head injury is keeping him down. I was glad to see Maltanaur. He'll look after Eilian. I can imagine how difficult it was for Eilian to leave Legolas's safety to someone else (and Celuwen's, too) and his mind needs to be on orcs right now. I look forward to the next chapter and seeing where this fire goes...well...all the fires...woods and love. :>) Karen

Karri · 7 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

"woo hoo!" says Karri, who has been rooting for Celawen and Eilian to get together every since "When the Shadow...". I do hope they manage it this time. I also hope Thranduil returns soon to do something about the fires.

meckinock · 7 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

This refusing to evacuate thing just cannot end up well, I think. Good for Eilian to make sure that Legolas, at least, gets out, and good thinking to trick Celuwen into going with him. I'm still catching up with your OCs, but obviously his future father-in-law problems bear watching. The bathing scene with Legolas was extremely...physical. You definitely have me hooked!

Nilmandra · 7 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

Part of my honors what Siolith and Felas are trying to do, and part of me says it is but one tiny drop in the bucket in the battle against shadow, and it is not worth risking their lives to save this little settlement. To think they would stay if fire comes is risky, and I am glad that Eilian plans on LEgolas being FAR away if that happens. And that was not bad planning on his part to get Celuwen away too! A little subtle manipulation perhaps, but also honest too. Poor Eilian, poor Annael - Legolas gets the physical discomfort, but those who love him suffer with him. I was glad to see Maltanaur. Have I ever mentioned how much I like him? Always there for Eilian.... The final scene with Celuwen and Legolas was wonderful. He feels taken care of and soothed and comforted - and he sees that she truly loves his brother. How wonderufl that he can be witness to it - for that may give him little opportunities in the future to help push them together. It also gives him a deeper tie to Eilian - knowing his heart like that - that puts them on more of equal footing as brothers, instead of as the big brother-little brother relationship they currently have. Loved it again. :D

naneth · 7 November 2003 · Chapter 7: Making Plans

Eilian really reminded me of his adar in his dealing with the settlers. Not much patience for their lack of planning and wisdom, but trying to be calm and get them to understand his reasoning. I think he still needs practice in his diplomatic skills! Poor Legolas really did get a hard "knock" to the head. You made his inability to focus so real. And now fire and orcs are heading his way! It was nice to see Maltanaur again. Reminds me that Legolas will soon have to deal with being assigned his own "keeper". That should be *very* interesting.

Arbelethiel · 7 November 2003 · Chapter 6: In Another Time

Yay! another chapter! and this time I get to review before you post another *sheepish smile*. Re: Thranduil leabing the Council, well, they had it coming. Combined with his need to be home for Legolas’ coming of age ceremony, I’d say it was inevitable. Eilian may flirt with everything that’s wearing a skirt, but he is all Ceruwen’s. The minute he is free to bond, he’ll probably ask her. It’s rather tragic really. He is torn between his love for danger and his love for Ceruwen. He probably could ask to be transfered to the Home Guard so that she would accept him more easily, but he’d be wasted there and he knows it. Children have an amazing memory! He met her shortly long ago and he still feels animosity towards her :D even though he cannot remember why he feels so. (In fact, he would probably be very ashamed of himself if he could!) Thank you for this chapter, I’m looking forward to the next. ~Arbelethiel

Lera · 7 November 2003 · Chapter 6: In Another Time

I liked that you incorporated Curunir's using his voice to sway people. But man...wrong move Curunir! Making light of Eilien being in danger and of his scouting ability! Calling him a frightened scout. As though the shadow were nothing to be frightened of! Jerk. Poor Legolas. Why the animosity toward Celuwen, Legolas? I know he didn't like her before, but that wasn't personal. Aw, well. He'll see she's nice. Anyone who'll hold your hair back while your throwing up... I was thinking, if Eilien and Celuwen ever do bond, I don't think it'll be easy for Celuwen to be Thranduil's daughter in law. Considering both Tnranduil and Itheldien's feelings regarding the elves who insist on living in the unprotected settlements...it could cause some tense moments. More soon please!