Reviews (70)

Lindorien · 24 January 2004 · Chapter 2: The Midnight Watches

Wow. Why is Legolas sick? So the Gondor People don't eat roasted peppers, but fry everything? Yuck. I prefer the roasted peppers and lovely cheeses. That would set Legolas to rights. How nice that Rosie makes such lovely bread. I move along. Lindorien

Lindorien · 24 January 2004 · Chapter 1: The Garden of the Queen

Yikes! I don't know what I expected but not that. This is gorgeous! Would that I had a few elves to discipline my hobbit-like children. I don't know where you are going with this story, but it is lovely. Truly lovely. Lindorien

AM · 24 January 2004 · Chapter 999999: Author's Notes on Chapter Sequence

I have been following (and enjoying immemsely) both of these from the beginning. I am now going to go back and read the "integrated" story.

Jay of Lasgalen · 24 January 2004 · Chapter 9: Thranduil

What a lovely way to spend Saturday morning (when I should be doing the shopping) reading this wonderful chapter! I wondered if all the worry over Thranduil's appearance would be justified - but he reacted just as I hoped he would - glimpses of his majestic power, but so loving towards his sons (and Arwen!) I loved Radagast's comments about cats and kittens - he is indeed no fool. And the scene when Legolas awoke in his parent's arms was beautiful. Lalaith was wonderful! I have seen so few stories with Legolas' mother still around, but her power was awesome. When I read of the intruder, I thought for a moment you were going to undo the whole happy feeling of this chapter and have something terrible happen - but I need not have worried. BTW, thank you for changing this to just one story - I will find it easier to keep track. Jay

The Karenator · 24 January 2004 · Chapter 9: Thranduil

Oh my dear Scribe, How relief doth flood me for the arrival of my kin, King Thranduil and my dearest friend, his queen, Lalaith. I must say, I am most impressed with the firm hand that the Lady Arwen has taken with the new king of Gondor. He hath cleaned up rather nicely. However, none look so princely as our young Mir. How he doth shine! The presence of Ohtar truly quieted my spirit as I know him to be the bravest and fiercest of all the king's guard. For long years did he serve in The Fifteen and his devotion to his liege and his family are still held dear by all of us who love him freely. It was good to see him take a relaxing moment among the beautiful and fragrant gardens with the dear little hobbit, Sam. For as fierce a warrior as this one is, he is equally gentle of heart. I must say, and you may pass this on to my dear friend and sister, Lalaith, I am always much impressed with how well she controls her wind. Not even Galadriel wielded such precise gifts. Just ask Celeborn. Yet, Lalaith will brook none to bring harm to her child. The foul human deserved her terrible wrath...and got off rather easy, I would say. He was most fortunate that a tree root did not come snapping from the earth and wrap itself around his neck! You must ask her tell you about the time we went shopping in Dale and a wandering Easterling tried to approach Mir. He said he only wanted the lad to help him find his dog. I do not believe anyone would find a piece of him with an eyeglass and a pair of fine bone tweezers. I knew the queen would embrace the Master Dwarf for that which her son loves, she would also find a place in her heart. She is truly good for Thranduil. And how could one not adore the hobbits. No matter what race, mothers will always find common ground. My eyes are full at the sight of Legolas finally in the arms of his beloved parents. He heals, but it has been slowly. Now, with the strength of his adar and naneth and continued love of Mir, I feel hope blossoming for his full recovery. This report is well received by those of my household and there is much joy. Pray, do not forget to keep us apprised of news. Your humble servant, The Karenator

Lydia · 24 January 2004 · Chapter 9: Thranduil

Oooohhh, a new chapter finally, and an exciting one at that. Thanks!

Lindorien · 31 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Shire Interlude

Nothing like wandering into a fic in the middle, or near the end. Sickness, foul-tasting medicine, everybody worried about everybody else? This is fair Dottir's idea of humor? I thought. I really must speak with the lass! Then I hit this line: The elves were polite and saw no reason to tell the kind hobbit that, as a seasoned warrior of the Galadhrim, Rúmil would eat cram without complaint if it were placed before him as what was available. and I found myself giggling. Oh those letters were priceless! You should do a fic of just letters back and forth because those were wonderful and had me chucklng more than once. As an elf-impaired type, I am proud that I understood four of the elf names, and loved the 'flower' translations. as an aside, I found the descriptions of the flowers the little girl had left and the elves all dropping them in the glass and the comment that the flowers were living out their purpose in Arda quite touching. Very nice, Humble Scribe. I shall have to go back and read this from the beginning. Lindorien.

Nilmandra · 30 December 2003 · Chapter 8: Gimli's Aerie

Finally, some good news! I have some speculative thoughts as to who is responsible for this terrible illness, and look forward to seeing if I am right. All the elves holding vigil was indeed a sight to behold - I can only imagine the love they hold for the prince. And I want Thranduil here now! He is the one who should be holding his son! Since you are his scribe, I assume you have his ear. Tell him to hurry up!

daw the minstrel · 29 December 2003 · Chapter 8: Gimli's Aerie

This was a wonderful chapter - the elves in the courtyard, the two human guards (one blind, one insightful), and Radagast arriving in the nick of time. I also liked seeing Aragorn the father worried about Thranduil the father.

Lydia · 28 December 2003 · Chapter 8: Gimli's Aerie

Thank you for not killing him off. I was kind of afraid you would when you said this chapter would be sad. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. BTW I do LOTR fanfics on fanfiction.net under the penname Lydia2. Perhaps I will consider putting some of them here though.

shirebound · 28 December 2003 · Chapter 8: Gimli's Aerie

Oh, I was terrified about what was about to happen in this chapter, but what a delightful surprise! Beautifully, lovingly, gently written, as usual. Sweet hobbits, lending whatever comfort they could. Good old Arngrein. Sigh.

Jay of Lasgalen · 28 December 2003 · Chapter 8: Gimli's Aerie

Thank the Valar! I quite thought you were going to let Legolas die this time, and was already getting tearful. When the 'beggar' appeared, I knew immediately who he was (well, actually, I thought it was Gandalf. But Radagast will do). Now, at last, things are looking better! How horrible Dalthor is - Aragorn is going to have a lot of work to do, to sort men like him out. But thankfully he has his loyal guards as well. I'd like to know what the back-story is between Radagast and Legolas - it sounds interesting! Jay

Tinnuial · 28 December 2003 · Chapter 8: Gimli's Aerie

You had me in tears for that whole last chapter.....though the tears turned from tears of sorrow to those of relief at the end!!! You are an amazing writer. Thank you for these two beautiful stories.

The Karenator · 28 December 2003 · Chapter 8: Gimli's Aerie

My Dear Lady, Barely can I write these words for so doth my tears of joy and thanksgiving fall. By the hands of the Valar doth the good and kind Radagast arrive. There is once again hope as the true healing of our beloved Prince doth come under the Istari's healing touch. Truly, all of Elvendom offers its gratitude to the brave Arngrein. Pray that Elessar doth reward him handsomely for his quick thought and gentle heart. He is a beacon among men. Though, I will admit, I had hope that he would demonstrate a true warrior's right uppercut to Dalthor's thick skull. How touching it was to see Orophin extend the healing light to include the young mortal boy. No more will Sulka see Elvenkind in the dark ways of ignorance, but in the true light of their compassion and love. Truly, even Elessar has come to realize that the Elven king rides to his son with all the same love and fear of any father whose child has been felled by such an evil malady. My eyes were filled as I beheld the gathering of the Elves to honor their prince. For all their stately glory, the strength of their love was the guiding light. How I rejoice with them as they sing their lullaby of gratitude. I, too, shall take my leave of you to stand watch with our kin. My house is overcome with emotion and the joy of the healing that has now passed into our friend and prince. I pray that you, too, will now take some rest for long have you labored in the Woodland's King's service. When it is time, we will all join you for the next report of our loved one's progress. May the stars always shine upon your path, my dear Scribe. You humble servant and best bud on all of Arda, The Karenator

Nilmandra · 11 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Shire Interlude

Oh, I am a day late and must get back to work, but this was SO worth the break to read it! You have got the hobbit voices! You made hobbits interesting and wonderful as Tolkien intended! Hooray! The letters were great and the impact on the recipients wonderful. I enjoyed this greatly. Now, I must go see if Elrond's dental plan covers damge due to grinding of the teeth.....

Grey Wonderer · 11 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Shire Interlude

The letters gave me a great laugh Pippin's most of all,the kind where you are alone reading and realize that you are laughing out loud! Thank you.

The Karenator · 11 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Shire Interlude

My Lady Scribe, With great wonder do I ponder your grand way with words. Such a wonderful recounting of the events as I have I ever seen. You have described the events with such clarity I feel as if I must be seated upon the floor at Rumil's and Orophin's side as Sam reads the letters from the Shire. Pippin's wonderful words brought such joy to the elves after such long worry for the sweet prince. I can just see Haldir's face as Pippin reports that Huan must have been a very nice dog. It pleases me so to see the smiles of all gathered. It was well that Legolas had fallen into slumber by the time Merry reported on the king's clandestine activities. I must agree that the body count is exaggerated by the presence of your beloved liege. Long have I known this fair and great elven lord and ne'er have I known him to be the half of his reputation. Yes, he is stern and williful, but not one bone in his body is cruel and unloving. Though, where his sons are concerned, the humans would be wise to take to heart his wrath, for the king loves these children of his above all. Most pleased am I to see that a positive impression is being made upon the mortals by our elven kin. Sulka is having all her illusions destroyed as to the evil intent of elves, but she is still keep in reminder that they are not to be trifled with. With great anticipation do I look forward to greeting the next installment and the arrival of the Woodland King. Until then, my Lady, those of my household do bid you safety and may the stars always shine upon your path. Your servant, The Karenator

Lydia · 10 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Shire Interlude

I just about laughed my head off at this last chapter, which is really dreadful because the rest of the family is asleep and it would be horrible if they heard because I'm supposed to have gone to bed. Anyway, this was wonderful relief after how sad the previous chapters have been. Keep them coming!

daw the minstrel · 10 December 2003 · Chapter 7: Shire Interlude

This was a long and moving chapter. I was very interested in Sulka's view of the elves, particularly of Haldir. I liked the line about Giluviel smiling at her for Haldir. The attitudes of Rumil and Orophin toward Haldir and one another were touching too. And I suppose I could use 'touching' as a pun, because of the way you showed the elves as willing to touch one another. I thought Pippin was really funny. He scandalized poor Sam and would have scandalized the Elves if they had been able to make sense of half of what he wrote. But Merry's letter sent a chill through all of them, as well it should. Even the Elves were sobered by the idea of Thranduil on the march.

daw the minstrel · 4 December 2003 · Chapter 6: The Bonds of Friendship

What a sweetie this child is. I think he is right. Legolas does need him.

shirebound · 4 December 2003 · Chapter 6: The Bonds of Friendship

Oooh, I love this chapter! What an incredible insight into Eldarion's complex character -- such a child still, and yet surrounded by ancient, courageous, legendary beings as role models. I never once thought about what Eldarion would look like, or what his childhood would be like. This is *so* good.

daw the minstrel · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 5: Ithilien Rides

Very cool. I loved the image of Giluviel riding at the head of this group of armed, scary elves. You can really feel the tension here, as the men and the elves regard one another. Poor Arwen. She is caught in the middle.

Jay of Lasgalen · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 5: Ithilien Rides

I love this story, but it is so sad. Poor Legolas seems to be getting worse instead of better - why? Is it because he feels the hatred directed at him, or because someone has been using a very subtle poison? I understand the elves of Ithilien riding to protect their prince, but I can't help feeling they are going to make matters worse if they appear fierce and warlike. And Aragorn and Arwen really need to talk to them! Please update (either story) soon! Jay

Nilmandra · 30 November 2003 · Chapter 5: Ithilien Rides

This is so powerful. While I struggle with the premise, because I hate evil, I am impressed with these warrior elves. They ride to protect their prince, and all of Gondor is seeing them arrayed in power and might as they have probably never before seen him. And my heart breaks for Aragorn and Arwen. And I wonder why Legolas will not heal..... *sob*

daw the minstrel · 24 November 2003 · Chapter 4: The Lion of Lórien

It's very interesting to see this story play out in separate stories. Haldir is impressive. You can really feel his rage which first burns hot and then turns cold. I would not want to be the one crossing him.