Reviews (105)

meckinock · 28 November 2004 · Chapter 5: Dancing with Memories

Thranduil's memories of his last night dancing with Lorellin were just heartbreaking. I can't help it, though - you've got Bad!Legolas nailed so well it makes me laugh. The scene with Thranduil trying to get him dressed for the dancing where he was going on about his clothes being too tight and ada using the wrong-color brush was so painful it was funny. Oh, and the outright tantrum at the dance, complete with being hauled away sobbing hysterically. But back to the dance for a minute - it's painful seeing Eilian and Celuwen's attraction to each other and know how long it will be before it comes to fruition! And I chuckled at Eilian's casual assumption that Celuwen always understood when he had to be somewhere else. Eilian's empathy for Legolas and his gentleness with him is really touching. It was cute to see him trying to put Legolas to bed. The one I really feel sorry for here is Eilian. He seems to desperately need a hug from his ada and ada is disapproving of him, as usual. It was too bad that Thranduil wouldn't listen to Eilian when he was trying to explain Legolas's feelings. Thranduil is doing his best but if he would listen a little better he might gain some insight into all his sons. Eilian's realization that he wasn't ready to die and that he was behaving recklessly, particularly the part about not wanting to die with the stink of orc blood in his nostrils, really made me think about his reaction to Elladan and Elrohir in "Good Neighbors". Already Eilian is analyzing his behavior and deciding to focus his anger constructively. Not that he won't continue to have his reckless moments for centuries to come, but at least he's examining his behavior and attempting to look at it in the context of his relationship to his family and his place in his society. It seems that E2 maybe didn't gain that perspective due to the isolated nature of Rivendell. Once they started down the path of professional orc-exterminators, there were no larger concerns pulling them back. Makes you wonder if Elrond was asleep at the wheel, though...

meckinock · 28 November 2004 · Chapter 4: Serving the Realm

I really liked Ithilden getting put in his place by Maltanaur. That doesn't happen very often. Poor Legolas, he's acting out big-time; and Eilian is on one big self-destructive downward spiral, too. Eilian's recollection of being fed breakfast porridge at lunchtime was cute.

meckinock · 28 November 2004 · Chapter 3: Getting into Trouble at Home

Hey, Daw! Karen got me thinking about titles, so I went back and looked at all of your story titles, and then this story dragged me in. I flipped through it briefly right after I started to read your stuff, but mainly to get caught up and figure out who everyone was. I couldn't resist taking another look today and now I can't drag myself away. Wow! I don't think I've ever seen Thranduil angry at all three kids at the same time before. This is truly a family in meltdown. And the sucker punches being thrown right and left are red-hot-- Eilian telling Ithilden he can't save his mother because she's dead; Thranduil bringing up Dagorlad... All of them are suffering so; together and separately. Legolas is the worst - the ache he feels when he sees Annael's mother kiss him is heart-wrenching. My favorite scene of the whole chapter is where Legolas won't eat and Thranduil puts him on his lap and hand-feeds him like a small child. It comforted both of them.

Larien Elengasse · 13 July 2004 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

This was wonderful, a real page-turner. I loved how you portrayed young Legolas, and the interactions between him and his family. His precocious nature was so endearing, and his emotions were very believable. I also appreciated how you portrayed Thranduil, as I am a fan of his and find that too few authors do him justice. The family dynamics were wonderful in this story and I look forward to reading the rest of the series. Well done, truly.

FaerieQueen · 2 January 2004 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

That was a nice fic. I love reading about Legolas's early childhood. This was an especially moving story, as it took place so close to his mother's death. I go now to continue reading more Legolas stories. Thank you. FaerieQueen

sofia · 25 December 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

hey. i love this story. i came across it on one authors favorite list, and it is one of my favorites,too.

Lera · 13 October 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries

I'm so glad Thranduil has finally figured it out. ONe thing I love in this family is their value of truth, even/especially with their children. I find it sweet that Legolas hasn't lied. If it had been me, I might ave been tempted to. And he's so innocent:"I didn't touch Anniel's Father's sword!" So sweet.

Lera · 13 October 2003 · Chapter 6: Coming to One's Senses

I wish Eilien could feel confident enough of his ability to control his temper that he could tell his father what needs to be said about Legolas. I must say I admire him in how handled Legolas at the dancing. Having your bratty sibling interupt your romantic moment like that must have been maddening. Oh, speaking of which, Eilien's nickname for Legolas later on is brat. Is that how it all started? lol. So glad Ithildien has realized he is not allpowerful. I hope he realizes he cannot live in the land of "if only." He seems ready to forgive everyone but himself. Hope he realizes coddling Eilien will only drive his brother mad. He needs to realize that all the warriors are someone's brother or son or sweetheart. But I feel for him, poor guy.

Lera · 13 October 2003 · Chapter 5: Dancing with Memories

I am really enjoying this story. I've always imagined it must be heartbreaking to lose a family member especially a parent. As thank God it has never happened to me I have never known what it's like. Except now. You're giving me direct access to four broken hearts. It's really interesting how they all react differently. I must say I really, really like Celuwen. I think if I was an elf, I'd have been friends with her. Interesting how she was Eilien's first sweetheart. She's the opposite of him. But it's not surprising that he is attracted to her. I like that she doesn't seem like a silly, flirt. Good job on her.

sekhet · 31 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

Well, I tried holding off on feedback for a couple of days in the hope that you hadn't really meant to end the story there, and you really really meant to post another few chapters (pick a number between another 10 and 3O or so...). But no. You meant it. That was a quite brilliant ending. All the threads beatly tied together, from Ithilden learning that he isn;t infallible, to Legolas eating again, Thranduil healing, and Eilian - well, so that's what he's doing, flirting with every maiden in the forest: he's waiting for Celuwen to see he's all grown up and to come back and marry him. Hmm. I'm sure he's a great tactician against the orcs, but I'm not entirely convinced he has that one right. And can I just say, the bathroom scene was very nice. Very nice indeed. In fact, I think I'll just go and read it again. Thank you, Daw Sekhet Author Reply: Thank you, Sekhet. I didn't want it to end either. This story was a lot of fun to write, despite its rather angsty subject. I suspect you are right in your judgment of Eilian's behavior, but then you and I can see more clearly than he can because he is a male. I have had several inquiries into the bathroom scene. People seem to think I neglected the details in that one! daw

LKK · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

~sigh~ Poor Eilian. I doubt even the realization that his brother and father see him in a new light will be enough to soothe his heartbreak. I'm glad though that his older family members changed their opinions of him. Legolas was simply adorable in this chapter. (Actually in all the chapters!) I loved his pride over not touching any weapons while his brothers were gone. And his surety that he never looked as silly as Eilian in the bathtub. (I don't know why but his thoughts during that entire scene tickled me pink.) The elleth telling the King that Legolas and his friends weren't really warriers was a cute touch too. A wonderful story, daw, and I'm very glad that I read past the first chapter! :-) Author Reply: Thank you for giving it a chance, LKK. And I have to say I enjoyed writing from Little Legolas's point of view. Getting into his head was always fun.

xsilicax · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

OK, flattery time here. If you ask anyone who knows me, they will all tell you that I am *not* a Legolas fan, and that could possibly be understating my feelings on the matter. So, that you have me hooked (an avid reader of all your fics) and wanting to just pick him up and wrap him in a warm hug is nothing short of a miracle. Of all I think this is my favourite of your tales, simply because there is so much emotion and evolving of characters in here. Eilian in love *sigh* would it could be me, but I think he was well matched, and it would be interesting to hear if anything ever came of it. Somehow I think he would be a great father, watching him with Legolas, although perhaps a favourite uncle would be a better role. That way he can give them back when they're trouble. Ithilden and Thranduil both learned a part of the same lesson, I think. That in working hard to try and protect your family, you can lose sight of what they really need. Thankfully they all realised that to love and be loved is what is important. I think they have actually become a closer knit family since the tragedy. There certainly seems to be a lot more of an understanding betwen them, although in some ways 'naneth' would provide the bond and conciliation between them, that they have just formed. Either way I loved it! Now I only have one wish (well two). One, that it had never ended. And two, that the bath scene had been a lot more...extended. And wow, that could possibly be the longest review I've ever done. Author Reply: I am very flattered that you have made an exception for my Legolas. Of course, he comes as part of this family, which is what I have become really interested in writing about, so I appreciate your comments there. As for the bath scene, there was a little kid there! I couldn't say too much. But use your imagination. This a fully grown, um, fully adult Elf who undoubtedly doesn't have an extra ounce of fat on his well-muscled body. He moves with Elven grace and he has a devilish grin that you will notice if you look at his face. ;-) daw

JustMe · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

The more I read about Celuwen, the more I like her. You have to admire her spunk - just like Eilian, she knows where her duty lies. And just like Eilian, she means to see to her duty. Yes, these two make an incredible couple. I am glad to see that you have left the question of their future relationship open - could this mean we may see more of her in other stories? I look forward to it! The scenes between Legolas and Thranduil were really cute and touching. I especially like the way Legolas feels the need to comfort everyone else now that he is beginning to recover from his trauma. "You still have me" was maybe my favorite moment of all. How utterly sweet. You just feel like you want to grab him and give him a great big hug! And by the way, you can put me on the list for comfort-giving to any of these characters - they are all hug-worthy! Author Reply: I am hoping to use Celuwen again some day, although I have no definite plot line worked out. I think that she could handle Eilian quite well and he would enjoy every minute of it. I told Nilmandra that I stole the "you still have me" line from my own son when he was a preschooler. It is still one of my favorite memories of him and he is an adult. Thank you for consistently reading and reviewing this story. daw

The Karenator · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

Daw, Oh my. I'm sorry this has ended. It was such a touching ending where all seem to be coming to grips with change. I'm still not sure how I feel about the elves in the settlement seeming so reluctant to heed the advice of Ithilden and Thranduil. A part of me would feel the same way if forced to leave my home, but another part recognizes that not all things can be controlled. I can't say I think they are wrong, but neither can I say I think they're right. Sometimes, being right is not the most important ingredient in outcome. They do have a hard decision. The return welcome for the warriors was a nice greeting. I'm with Ithilden. It can never be taken lightly. I was as glad as Little Legolas to see his brothers home and safe. And Thranduil, of course. I can not imagine what it would be like to send one's son to war. I have great respect for the parents of soldiers and for the soldiers themselves. No, I don't think any return would be taken lightly. (This is the mother of sons worrying!) Thranduil seems to have finally recognized Legolas's needs, (as well as the needs of his older sons), and found that sometimes just being Ada is most important in healing them all. It was a sweet moment when Thranduil felt Lorellin's presence. He needs her. And then we have Celuwen. She must be as fiery as Eilian in many ways. Truly, they are a good match. I'm glad she survived this first story and offers hope of a future. Maybe if we could ask the older Legolas of your later story where he decides to accompany the Fellowship, he could clear up the burning question inquiring minds want to know ...Did Eilian and Celuwen get together later and bond? Again, it raises questions with me about the wisdom of her decision even if I can see her point. We know, from our lofty position, that the shadow presses Mirkwood to the point of having to withdraw the southern forces even closer home. So I suppose she will have to return or will not survive for that to even be a question. Ah, fodder for the creative fires! I hope you will, eventually, let us know what happens. (Though if you marry off our favorite bad boy, hordes of fangirls and old fan-moms might just be knocking furiously on your computer screen! I'm sure after a moment of reflection, we will all be happy for Eilian. We'll try anyway.) It was nice to hear Legolas tell Eilian to hurry with his bath because he was hungry. (I was far too focused on the dropping of the leggings, so it was good to be reminded that there was a child present and that his appetite had returned!) Good story, Daw. I enjoyed every word and still say that your original characters are among the best. Looking forward to the next tale. Karen Author Reply: In truth, I also have ambiguous feelings about the elves in the settlements. I think the day will come when they will have to give up. I just hope Celuwen is still around then! The bath scene appears to have provoked some interest. Let's just say this is a healthy, graceful, strong adult Elf. Using a bow must give him nice shoulders and I assume the hips are narrow and legs are long. (Excuse me a minute while I jump into a cold shower.) Thank you for your careful responses to this story. They mean the world to me. daw

Nilmandra · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

I think that fulfilled my need for Little Legolas :) A lot seems to have happened at home in the three weeks the warrriors were away. Thranduil seems to have seen the light, so to speak, and he is making conscious changes to his parenting because of it. That is wonderful - it is good to see even old elves willing to change when needed. Legolas' healing does come through nicely - I am glad he is hungry, I am glad he is sorry, I am glad he is spending time with Ada and I am especially glad he is loved. Crawling into Eilian's lap and saying 'you still have me' was adorable. Unconditional love is a wonderful thing. So, this journey is over. Can't wait to see what you come up with next. :) Author Reply: I confess I stole the "you still have me" line from my son when he was preschooler and found me in tears over something I now have memory of. I thought it captured the love and egotism of four year olds quite nicely. But then, I thought that most of what he said was brilliant. Thank you again for all your help with this and all my stories. You are endlessly creative in suggesting ways to make things happen. I could not ask for a better beta or virtual friend.

Naneth · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

Note to self: hit tab key not return key when typing review! A wonderful ending to a wonderful story! You are one of the most talented writers in the LOTR's arena. Your stories are always a thrill to read. They draw me into this wonderful family and help me to feel all the emotions they are feeling at the time. What a special gift you have! Now....more, please....soon! Author Reply: Thank you, Naneth (and I say again, that's a wonderful name for anyone reviewing this story to have!). If you have felt this family's emotions, then I am thrilled. To me, all the external battles in the worlds aren't nearly so interesting as the grief of a child or the struggle of an adult to be a better person. I appreciate your continued feedback on this story. daw

Jay of Lasgalen · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

Daw, lovely end to the story! (Yay, I can review from here!!) Lots of loose ends tied up - Ithilden is going to be at home more, which Legolas will like, and Thranduil will have more time to be Ada. Poor Eilian - but I guessed from your other stories that he wouldn't stay with Celuwen. And at least we know he will be fairly free from harm down there on the South patrol. BTW, I loved the description of Eilian in the bath - looking like a dog when you scratch her back!! I know that soppy expression perfectly well from my own dog! Jay Author Reply: Thank you for the review, Jay. I would guess that after a couple of weeks in the wild, wallowing in a hot tub would feel pretty good. But no one appreciates feeling good like a dog. Thank you for staying with this story and reviewing even when ff.net fought you. daw

Strange Blaze · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

No, that wasn't mean of you at all. You have succeeded once again in creating a fantastic story about this family. Every one of the characters is so real and so amazing. Poor Eilian! I'm looking forward to what happens next in the story of he and Celuwen, because obviously she's not in the other stories. I'm looking forward to more stories soon! Author Reply: But Celuwen *could* be in the other stories - just not around! Thank you for your kind comments. Having characters called "real" is a very great compliment. daw

Brenda G. · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

A triumph. I can't think of any other word to describe "When Shadow Touches Home." From the opening word of this story to the very last period, your readers have been privileged to travel beside Mirkwood's First Family through the valley of the Shadow, to strive with them against the blnding pain of loss, not only of their loved one, but of themselves. With them, we have groped for the "whys" that always accompany a death, and we have groaned beside the members of this elven family as they were stretched taut on the rack of grief and pain. It is there where they learned to fill the gaping void left by Lorellin with each other. This has been a journey of incredible tenderness, of laughter and tears, of learning to take courage in hand and forge ahead. I come away from this story different--better, I think, in every way for joining Thranduil and his sons in their struggle. YThe theme to your story is universal: Love conquors all. It is the glue that keeps the jumbled pieces of our lives together; it is the source of all healing; and as the Bible so eloquently puts it: "Love never fails." Never has. Never will. You've shown us in vivid brush stokes just how powerful Love can truly be. This is a wonderfully wrought tale, one to treasure and to read over and over again. Thanks, Daw. You're a blessing to many. Author Reply: All right, call me sappy, but you actually made tears come to my eyes with your comments on grief and loss. I think that Elves were very family centered and they felt deeply, so the loss of a family member must have been very hard to bear. But you are right. "Love never fails." daw

Fadesintothewest · 29 August 2003 · Chapter 11: Not Alone

OmG, I thought I would hate Celuwen but I don't, again this is due to the fact that although we do not read about her in great length, she is a well developed character. Her decision was not simple one dimensional reaction, not in the least bit. And Thranduil's advice to his son was the most appropriate. Elves are long-lived until the end of Arda (who knows when that is), though Shadow looms to cut their lives short. True love does stand the test of time the romantic in me thinks, but love also succumbs to the realities of life, and other true loves can grow. In the end if Celuwen or Eilian end up together or not will be a pleasure to read about. Eilian's character really came around in this story, and Ithilden seems so steadfast, like a rock, what Thranduil needs most. Little Legolas is too darn adorable, I want one! I look forward to whatever stories you dream up for this wonderful set of characters! Author Reply: I count not hating Celuwen as a huge victory! But then, I liked Miriwen. Now that I have spent so much time with these characters living in my head, it is hard for me to imagine them living without one another. They care for one another and take care of one another. I will miss writing about Little Legolas, I think. Looking through his eyes was always a kick! daw

sekhet · 26 August 2003 · Chapter 10: Battles

Daw GREAT action scenes, and very believable, but what was even more impressive (for me) was how Eilian has grown in this story. You know, it's almost more his story than anyone else's - we've already seen the beginnings of the respect that Thranduil has of Eilian's judgement of character, and now, at last, Ithilden too is learning to respect Eilian as a warrior and a scout. Eilian will be pleased at being restored to the Southern Patrol, but I doubt that Legolas will be (or, for that matter, will Thranduil, although as a wise commander he won't undermine Ithilde, i suppose). However much Thranduil's sons lament their "keepers", Thranduil has chosen well for them. Maltanaur is pefect as a foil for Eilian, able to channel the young one's anger and resentment so that Eilaun can make it work for him, nota gainst him. And I just love Ithilden's helplessness against Maltanaur's "insolence". You *did* come up with a scenario with Celuwen that I wasn't expecting. Naive as I am, I'd assumed the king's middle son was a bit of a matrimonial catch! I hadn't expected that her family would have objections. That rather took my breath away, and makes me wonder if Celuwen will share them, rather than the more melodramatic scenario's I'd thought up. Can't wait to find out. Well done, Daw. Another great chapter. Sekhet

Fadesintothewest · 25 August 2003 · Chapter 10: Battles

Wow, what an action-packed chapter. I love how you write battle scenes, very efficient like the elves but full of unexpected twists and turns as is the nature of battle. I was so angry with Ithilden when he did not send Eilian to scout, but it was good to see him rectify his attitude towards Eilian. I loved the following exchange between Ithilden and Eilian: "“By the way, I have decided to send Maltanaur with you wherever you are assigned.” Eilian grinned at him. “You cannot manage him, can you?” he asked. Ithilden laughed. “No, I cannot,” he acknowledged and started toward a night’s sleep in a bed. " It is as if in these few lines the truce or at least peace the brothers have arrived at is represented. Ai, Eilian really loves Celuwen, intends to bond with her, and if she doesn't want to then pooh on her, even if he is going to be off in the Southern Patrol. If she truly loves him this would not be a hinderance, not to Elves after all whose history is repleat with such sacrifice in love, so Celuwen live up to your ancestor's valour in love!

Fadesintothewest · 25 August 2003 · Chapter 9: Discoveries

So finally Thranduil sees what Eilian had seen. It must have been hard for all as they were all seeing through grieving eyes, but I am glad that Legolas and Thranduil seem to have come to an understanding. Oh no, my heart feels heavy for Eilian, something is going to happen with Celuwen, I just know it, and he is going to be hurt so deeply. As more and more of Eilian's story unravels, the more I find myself wanting to know more and more about this great character you have created. Ithilden is endearing as well, in another sort of way, but he snakes around you too and before you know it, you care deeply for this character too! It's why I love your stories so much, you take the time to really build solid OCs along with canon characters, and they all blend and make so much sense!

Brenda G. · 24 August 2003 · Chapter 10: Battles

Well, another masterpiece of a chapter... I enjoyed this one immensely. Your battle scenes are well constructed and described in such exacting detail that you can almost feel the arrows flying past your ears and the screech of the stricken orcs! Heady stuff. Glad that the brothers are finally seeing eye to eye somewhat. Eilian seems to be maturing and coming to terms with some of his past behavior that was less than wise or truthworthy. He seems set on bonding with his ladylove, but I am still braced for disappointment (his) as far as this romance goes. It will be interesting to see how you wind this story up in one more chapter as there seems to be several loose ends that require tying up. UNLESS, of course, you are planning another story on the heels of this one. Your fans are all for that! I'm ready for Legolas and Thranduil to be introduced back into the story, to find out how our little elfling fares at the end of this tale. I've really enjoyed this story, and I am very much looking forward to the next chapter. Good work. I'm hoping for a quick post... Brenda G.

The Karenator · 24 August 2003 · Chapter 10: Battles

Daw, So what did Maltanaur say to Ithilden when he reminded his commander that Eilian's maneuver was taught to novices and Ithilden thought him rather rude? I love Maltanaur. He does his job well. It has been difficult for Ithilden to see Eilian's strengths; he has been so blinded by his younger brother's careless antics and his own fears. I can't say I blame him for requiring Eilian to prove himself. Eilian did, after all, create the circumstances for himself to be viewed as rash and sometimes irresponsible. As adorable as he is, Eilian is finding out about action and reaction. Sometimes, I suppose, that's a hard lesson. That seems to be the case with Celuwen's father. You can't blame the guy for wanting to see his daughter in a stable relationship with a stable responsible elf. I admire him for not interfering, but instead, putting all his cards on the table for Eilian to see. However, I find these stubborn out-dwellers to be a bit thick. There are orcs running about like unleased pit bulls and they refuse to budge. While they may think they are holding back shadow by staying firmly rooted, the truth is that it's the warriors who are holding it back. I'd like to ask them a Dr. Phil question..."How's that working for you?" Let's ask the last settlement that no longer exist! Gee whiz. Even Elves can be dull as toast, I guess. It's been a pleasure to see the development of the characters we know from your earlier stories with this regression in time. This was another terrific chapter and I eagerly await the next. Carry on, mellon nin. Karen