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My Brother's Keeper  by daw the minstrel 27 Review(s)
jebbReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/23/2004
How brave but how foolish of Legolas and Turgon for once not being the cause of trouble but getting in very deep anyway I can't see Adar being very pleased with either of them nor the guards!
Eilian's sympathetic approach to Hiolith seems to have paid off but I think Malantaur is not happy
And Ithilden well the course of true love never runs smooth does it!

I loved the fact that Thranduil despite punishing Legolas needed to see him at meals I don't think it was just for his Legolas' benefit that this was changed
Thrnaduil does everything for the right reason even when he finds it hard what a good father he is Legolas is fortunate to have him even if he doesn't always realise it


Author Reply: I suspect you are right that Adar is going to be royally ticked off. He's going to be at his wit's end over what to do with his slippery adolescent. And Maltanaur's concern is always Eilian's safety, so while he would never want anything bad to happen to Legolas, he is exceedinly annoyed at him right now. And I don't suppose his bruised shins are helping his temper any!

You're so right that Thranduil misses Legolas when he doesn't see him. I think they all do actually.

Rose SaredReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/23/2004
heh. and the blondie digs himself deeper and deeper into the poo! What a mess!
Love it.
Rose

Author Reply: Yes indeed. Legolas very enthusiastically dug himself deeper, with Turgon's help, of course. Poor kid. He's worried and now he's mad. This is all Maltanaur's fault! Eilian is innocent!

BodkinReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/23/2004
I was sooooo happy to see this here this morning, since I am going to be deprived of the net for a few days.

Poor Ithilden: still the comic relief, even in a chapter that has no space for comedy. (Mind you, he does enough teasing in his capacity as omnicompetent big brother and troop commander. A small dose won't hurt him!)

Turgon! Only Turgon! What a shame he is unlikely to be returned from Mandos and sent back to Middle Earth to torment Thranduil. Although he wouldn't be nearly as endearing as an adult with his characteristics. What a brilliant way to get Legolas out of his room. It clearly never occurred to either of them to wonder how he might get back, but I don't think Legolas cares much - he is just too desperately worried about Eilian.

Why, oh why can't the powers in his life - Thranduil mainly, but also Ithiden and Eilian - see how desperate he is? Clearly they are thinking of other things, but the ellon is only emerging from his room to eat - they must see the state he is in. It would only take a few words to reduce his level of anxiety to the point where he would sit still - reluctantly maybe, but nevertheless safely.

As it is, he feels he is the only one who knows what is going on and the only one who can help. (Of course, without the testosterone poisoning, he would realise that the best way to help would be to TELL SOMEONE - but he's a teenage boy - what do you expect?)

And now he is in the middle of the biggest drug bust in Mirkwood history with a seriously irritated Maltanaur, a worried Eilian, a spaced-out Hiolith and some of the sort of Men you wouldn't want to ask to tea.

I am so glad I know they all survive. (Well, except Hiolith. Don't know about him - though I have some sneaking suspicions.) Legolas may end up wishing he hadn't for a while once his Adar hears of this.

Colleges here tend to deal with semesters, by actually still working a three term year, but finishing the first semester at the end of January after the Christmas break. But at least you end in MAY.



Author Reply: Poor Ithilden. But really, what are brothers for? ;-)

Thranduil must look at Turgon and wonder what he's done to deserve this. But I can kind of see why Legolas enjoys his company too, irritating as he can be sometimes. He's enthusiastic and announces that he'll stay with Legolas as soon as he realizes that Legolas can't come out.

They probably should have told him more or less what was up once he was confined in his room and couldn't give the game away. And he certainly should have told someone. But it's just against the code of the young. He would no more do that than he would tell the archery master who started the contest between Turgon and Isendir in chapter 1.

Maltanaur is definitely peeved at him. His focus is on Eilian, and while he wishes any child well, he'd tie Legolas to a tree in a heartbeat if he thought he was making trouble for Eilian.

We'll miss you in net-land for a few days!

lwarrenReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/23/2004
*large sigh* Now he's drawn all the wrong conclusions and things are even worse! In his eyes, the one person he thought was protecting Eilian (Maltanaur) has turned out to be bad! And by keeping him away from Eilian, they fostered that fear for him Legolas was feeling, and with all the whispering and pointed looks, and the silences when he enters a room...don't they understand what that will push him to? Now, he has accomplished the one thing Thranduil was trying to avoid...he's involved himself in this operation (heck! He's right in the middle of it...and Maltanaur's knee is in the middle of his back! ouch! And let's not forget he snuck out! *music of doom plays dolefully in background*

What a nerve-wracking chapter, daw! In fact, these 3 chapters I've read tonight have served to get me all incensed (in south Texas we say "het up"...I think that means heated up *vbg*)on Legolas' behalf! Well done! :-)

On a lighter note...Ithilden has to have the worst luck of any guy I've ever seen! Alfirin was ab-so-lute-ly mortified! He'll be lucky if she'll ever be able to look at him again (weeellll...we know she does *vbg* but I'll bet it was a close thing!)

And shades of Frodo and Gollum! Eilian can see himself in Hiolith and wants to save him! (The shadow of evil knows just the right chords to strike in people, doesn't it? Eilian is primed for a big fall unless those around him and he, himself, are strong enough to overcome it.) Wonderful! More soon, school and stuff permitting! :-):-):-)

linda

Author Reply: Exactly! Legolas has decided that this is all Maltanaur's fault, which I suppose helps excuse Eilian in his eyes. And Maltanaur is not pleased to find baby brother here, possibly putting Eilian in danger. So they're involved in mutual irritation at the moment.

Ithilden is kind of fun to torment. He's so dignified and in control most of the time that this is good for him. I think.

And yeah, Eilian sees himself in Hiolith in a sort of there-but-for-the-grace-of-the-Valar-go-I sort of way.

Thank you, Linda.

The KarenatorReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/22/2004
Brilliant, my dear minstrel, brilliant! Legolas and the Magic Cloak. I would have never thought of that..and really, you know I tried. He's gone off and gotten himself in a bit of a mess, hasn't he? Not to mention that when Maltanaur gets through with him, Thranduil gets him next. It's a good thing that Elves don't use corporal punishment or Legolas's fair little backside wouldn't be able to touch a chair seat for a week. Adar is going to be the first Elf in space. Yes, ladies, we have liftoff. And I'm afraid that this rocket is going to be so angry that it'll be unmanned...unelfed.

When Maltanaur grabbed Legolas from behind, I thought the men had him. I even scrolled up to see where Legolas had left the tree. Then I thought: What? Men up a tree? I should have read in the other direction. It would have saved time and conserved my limited brainpower. Legolas put up a good fight, but a much bigger and stronger Maltanaur could not be bested. I'm guessing here, but I'd say that Nilmandra read that part over and over...imagining herself in Maltanaur's clutches....We know how that sweet, adorable child thinks. :>)

Poor Hiolith. He's a mess and he really does need help. I can, of course, understand his suspiciousness. No one has looked for him in all those years and then suddenly, the king's son and his keeper, no less, are offering help. Eilian was wise to remind the former warrior that he is still a warrior at heart.

And the burning love of Ithilden and his flame, Alfirin: A ripping good story! I love it. Trust a brother to take your most embarrassing moment and announce it at the dinner table. Eilian might not have to worry about the men since his brother is going to kill him. And poor Legolas...in the dark about that too.

Great chapter. I'm really looking forward to what happens next. You've sort of left us on pins and needles. If you don't get to post it before Wednesday morning...should the ranger and I hope to get a peek at it..oh say, on the porch?

Karen

Author Reply: I have to confess that my husband thought of the cloak. Well, actually, he suggested that the kids change clothes but I gently (?) pointed out that that wouldn't work and then thought of the cloak. And oh, yeah, Maltanaur is annoyed with him right now, and Thranduil will not be pleased. If I were Thranduil, I seriously don't know what I'd do. This kid is just ignoring every penalty he sets and doing insane things.

I'm glad I fooled you into thinking the men had Legolas. :-)

Eilian is good with people. He could see what mattered to Hiolith, I think. And of course he could also see what mattered to Ithilden! LOL What are brothers for?

Tapetum LucidumReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/22/2004
AACK!! I can't believe you left us with such a terrible cliffy! School starts? It started 8/5 here - Hooray!

Poor Legolas, he isn't too happy with anyone in this chapter. Sounds like his guard is rubbing it in a little. I think that guard is going to be in deep, deep water with Thranduil soon enough. Even Maltanaur is on the receiving end of his displeasure. The old warrior has to respect the youngster's concern for his brother. It is nice to see the two elder sons of Thranduil torture each other over a meal. It is Legolas who is on the receiving end far too often. His family thinks they are reassuring but they are only annoying. A little explanation would have saved the poor elf a lot of heart ache. Turgon? That is good timing. Annael would have been harder to convince but Turgon is a different story.

Hiolith is now between a rock and a hard place. I was happy that both Eilian and Maltanaur want to help him rather than throw him in the dungeons. I am glad sneaking out was painful to Legolas. It is a little OOC for him but not surprising in the face of his worry for Eilian. Having him stop to admire the evening was sweet. I was kind of surprised the kids weren't caught last time. Maltanaur did a good job apprehending the wayward elfling. I could just see Eilian's face when his keeper threw his brother onto the ground. Poor prince must have made a very pitiful sight.

No pressure Maltanaur - your butt is toast if anything happens to either of Thranduil's offspring. Please hurry!

Author Reply: School started 8/5???? What kind of a tortuous place do you live in????

I think the guard may indeed have some questions to answer. And poor Maltanaur. Legolas has decided that this is all his fault. And now Maltanaur has to keep an eye on Eilian while hanging on to Legolas and not bruising him too much!

Ithilden's last little escapade took place in front of a bunch of people and that story was way too good to keep quiet. Half the realm probably knows it by now. I imagine most people are too intimidated to tease him, but not Eilian. What are brothers for, after all? ;-)

I thought of you today as I actually felt a sentimental pang about our old car, that has to live outside now, not in the garage. I was like your kid worrying about the refrigerator.

ElvenesseReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/22/2004
I found this chapter unsettling. I guess I'm feeling Legolas's unease and frustration.

With the guard out in the hallway, Legolas would be able to do nothing to stop him.

I had visions of Legolas calling his guard into his room and trying to stab him in the leg or knock him out. Okay, I know he wouldn’t do that. But if Turgon hadn’t come I could see him being desperate enough to do something stupid like trying to run out of the Palace. Or even taking the sensible option and going to Thranduil.

Is Thranduil going to decide to go and tell Legolas what is happening and then find Turgon in his son’s room? Ouch.

Turgon made a face. “My adar was very angry. He made me promise I would not touch the herb again.”

“And will you?” Legolas asked curiously.

“Probably not,” Turgon answered without much thought.


I though that shows both Turgon’s character and Legolas’s relationship with him very well. To Legolas a promise is a promise, and yet he knows Turgon well enough to ask whether he will keep his word or not. And Turgon still does not seem to have grasped the seriousness of the situation.

Legolas is now big enough and has enough training to cause trouble for Maltanaur. Of course, Maltanaur could easily knock him out or kill him; but subduing him without hurting him would be harder.

Hopefully Thranduil will be riding out with some guards and will be able to safely retrieve both his sons.

And now Eilian is alone with Hiolith in a ravine and there may be more Men coming this time.


Author Reply: Wow, that's so interesting. You're the second person who's said they find this chapter unsettling. Dot said that too. I wonder why? It doesn't feel a whole lot different to me, except that I was really concerned that I make the conversation with Hiolith seem real. But Legolas. Dot said that too, I think. From Legolas's pov, bad things are happening and the adults won't do anything. That IS unsettling.

Turgon is not unduly impressed by his father's anger it seems. I wonder how he's react to Thranduil walking into Legolas' room? Ouch indeed.

You're so right about Maltanaur. In truth, I think if Legolas made too big a pain out of himself, Maltanaur might be tempted to tie him up, even if Eilian would get ticked off. What is it the guy in the office next to mine says? "I'd rather apologize than ask permission."

sofiaReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/22/2004
Legolas is gonna be in so much trouble! I didn't think they would allow Turgon to see Legolas, but then again, the guards don't know.
-sofia

Author Reply: Oh yeah. Thranduil is not going to be pleased about this one. I figured the guards wouldn't know that Legolas was being punished except for the one at the door. Why should they know? Thranduil wouldn't be keen on telling everyone that. And they all know Turgon, after all. He's just a kid who lives around there and comes to see Legolas pretty frequently. Still, I suspect the king will not be pleased. :-)

EmilyReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/22/2004
“Ithilden has a ripping good story to tell you,” Eilian said with a grin.
Poor Ithilden!

Wow, that was a miserable evening for Legolas. I find myself wishing that, since he's confined to his chambers anyway, Thranduil would tell him the truth of what is going on. It probably didn't cross Thranduil's mind. He's got enough to worry about.

Somehow I get the feeling that Turgon and Legolas's switch will get found out even before Legolas gets home. It would be just like Thranduil or Ithilden to stop by and visit before the night is over. Or Turgon will get bored and so something stupid.

Legolas made me proud. Yes, he did the wrong thing, but his reason was only the best. I only hope the rest of his family sees it the same way. When Thranduil gets over his anger, he should be proud that he has a son like Legolas.

I'm very much looking forward to seeing how this scene with the men goes down.

Author Reply: Poor Ithilden, indeed! There were other people around and a story like that is too good to resist telling.

Legolas is in trouble and poor Eilian is probably frantic at the thought of him being anywhere near this situation.

I am sitting here giggling at the look on Thranduil's face if he does go to check on Legolas and finds Turgon. LOL

Legolas is brave. Stupid, but brave.

DotReviewed Chapter: 6 on 8/22/2004
Is it just me or was there a totally different feel to this chapter? I’m a little unsettled by it but I can’t quite put my finger on the reason…

I really feel worse than ever for poor Legolas. I think his worry for Eilian has started to become anger at just about everyone else for not helping him. Maltanaur must have felt like kicking himself when he realised that Legolas overheard his arrangements. I’m glad, though, that he did see Legolas because things could have ended up even worse if he and Eilian had no idea that he might become involved. My heart broke when he asks Eilian not to meet Maltanaur. From his point of view he’s watching someone he loves more than anything do something harmful and is powerless to stop it. It can’t help that everyone else insists on being so darn cheerful!

You made me laugh so much when Thranduil asks Ithilden about going out! Ithilden is clearly *very* sensitive about it. I don’t blame him, though. “Ithilden has a ripping good story to tell you.” LOL! Of course Eilian would have heard about it! Half the realm must have by now. I wonder how long it is before Thranduil catches wind of his eldest son’s, um, misadventures.

Turgon! I wondered if he’d turn up but I wasn’t sure he’d get in. It must indeed seem like an overreaction by Thranduil to Turgon but he’s probably fairly used to Legolas having stricter punishments than anyone else. And it seems that as angry as his own adar apparently was, it hasn’t made much of an impression on young Turgon. What a very clever plan Legolas concocts! How handy that it was raining and Turgon had a cloak with him. It’s brilliant, though. At getting him out anyway. He probably didn’t think about how he’d get back in and then get Turgon out again.

I actually think it’s the whole scene in Hiolith’s cottage that put me a bit ill at ease. Hmmn. I think it’s the whole confrontation thing and all the talk of taking him ‘into custody’ and ‘exorbitant prices’ and ‘exploiting people’. It’s all very NYPD Blue. Also (*embarrassed*) I didn’t really understand “We want to stop the Men who are selling the dangwath to all comers in Esgaroth.” I haven’t heard that phrase before. Please, please don’t think I’m criticising. I knew something like this was coming but it made me sit back for a moment because it’s so different than usual, which I guess is the point – this is a very unusual situation. I must be a very boring reader.

I still do feel very bad for Hiolith. He sounded a little bitter when he points out to Maltanaur that he hadn’t seen him in years until he wanted something. I still maintain there’s a history there. If there’s a law that the herb isn’t to be grown by anyone except the healers, then it could be tough to get Thranduil to be lenient. Or maybe not now that he’s seen his own son suffer from the shadow. Hiolith must actually be feeling nearly as taken advantage of by Eilian’s pretence as by the Men’s blackmail. Eilian himself seems genuinely curious about Hiolith and has a great deal of compassion for him, born obviously out of his own suffering. Choosing to remind him that he could be a warrior was a smart step; he must still have that sense of pride and loyalty to the realm somewhere inside him. Plus Hiolith really was on his own before, this must be the nearest thing to a way out he’s been offered.

The thing about Legolas is that the connections he’s making are so plausible. I seriously thought for a second that the Men had him! I was so relieved that it was Maltanaur. That elf sees everything. He was a bit rough with him, though… But I can see that he’d be completely frustrated. We seem to be seeing Legolas at his most desperate. He really believes that Maltanaur is endangering the person whose life he is responsible for. And what a demonstration of his love for Eilian. It must be killing Eilian to have Legolas anywhere near this.

I can’t wait for more. I really can’t. Why are you going back to work so early??! Here most colleges go back the middle of September and the rest go back the first week of October. You should complain.

This was written in such a rush. Sorry, but it’s late here! I really hope I haven’t said anything too nonsensical.

By the way, thanks for answering my question about the keepers. It was just something that I wondered about while reading the last chapter. I’d say it must be tough trying to think of a new one for Sinnarn. It definitely would be a very different type of relationship. My first thought was Tynd so that he’d have someone who’d be more of a friend but then again he’d be very young in Thranduil’s eyes and wouldn’t have proven himself, plus it would limit his career and Sinnarn might take it a slight on his own skills when Tynd isn’t *that* much older than him in elf years. Of course, I suppose you could always move someone like Thelion (he’s still alive, right?!), who has the skill and the wisdom of age and is apparently well liked – but if Sinnarn were to choose to stay in the Home Guard, that might not make much sense. Ah well. I’m sure you have your own plans. Does that mean that there’s an ‘adult Legolas’ story on the horizon??! Nope, I’m not demanding anything… ;-)



Author Reply: I'm wondering if this chapter feel different because more of it is through adult eyes. I wind up even writing longer sentences when I'm using Eilian's pov, for instance. And btw, that sentence about 'all comers' is maybe an Americanism. It means 'everyone who comes along.' I changed it. :-)

Legolas seems to feel he's just on his own in this and that's too bad. His family tries to reassure him occasionally but they don't tell him anything so he has no reason to believe them. He thinks maybe his father and Ithilden just don't understand what's happening.

I was particularly interested in trying to make Hiolith's agreeing to help them be plausible. I think your reading of Hiolith is really good. He's so isolated and sad and he needs to have his dignity back again. This story is a response to a challenge to write a "Mirkwood Vice" story and it does read a bit like that. I've been struggling to fit it into ME, and Hiolith's problem and the way other elves react to him is my attempt to do that. It's kind of fun, but I'm not sure it works all the way.

Maltanaur sees pretty much only Eilian. Eilian is his responsibility and he loves him like a son. He'd try to be gentle with Legolas because he's a good elf and because Eilian wants him unharmed, but if Legolas made problems, Maltanaur would gag him and tie him to a tree without a second thought!

We have two 16 week terms. This one starts now so it can end before Christmas. The other one starts in mid January and runs until the first week in May. And the summer comes again. :-)

Bodkin suggested Tynd as a keeper too, which I thought was a good idea, but I also really like the idea of Thelion. This won't be an issue until I write about the time after the Battle of Five Armies, which I won't be doing for a while yet. But I want to show Eilian with an elfling.

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