caz-baz
· 9 December 2003
· Chapter 4: News from Home
haha, i love it. Eilian seems happier. Well, i'm looking forward too your next chapter. but, for now i have to go and help my friends pack as its the end of term and i'm one of the few day girls who doesn't have a huge trunk to lug around. at the moment the only thing that could bring me down from this natural high is the thought of the carol service tommorrow which is easily counted out by the fact that i've been offered two more horses to ride as well as the one of mine i'm riding at the moment and i can also hunt these two unlike the two that i have to look after but let my sister ride. Three hunting horses man i'm feeling special! yay. only one other problem you may not here much of me because between my socialising, hunting and hostessing my mothers parties we still don't have the internet up in our new house. well until the internet returns.
caz
Author's reply
Oh no! No internet? Well, I will look forward to your return.
Eilian does seem to be feeling better, doesnt' he? Some healthy trees and lots of symbols of love from his family seem to have helped him. Let's hope the wargs leave him alone.
Fadesintothewest
· 9 December 2003
· Chapter 4: News from Home
Well it seems that Legolas is going to see some action quite soon, and probably more than he expected. I cannot wait to read that. I really loved this chapter and how you brought the three different snippents together. I have such a hard time doing this myself but you do it so well.
Eilian's interactions with Galelas were equally entertaining and I am glad to see that Galelas is hopefully not turning out like his brother.
I also am looking forward to the development of Legolas and Beliond's relationship. Maybe Thranduil will even be a bit jealous.
Author's reply
I have been worried about getting all my characters into this story when they are so widely separated geographically, especially since I didn't want to lose the family dynamics and two of the family members are off in the woods. So I'm glad it came together. As you know, it's tricky to do.
Antigone_Q
· 8 December 2003
· Chapter 4: News from Home
A little thawing between Legolas and Beliond? That's nice to see. Hopefully very soon Beliond will begin to enjoy those good traits the rest of us see in Legolas, and not be sorry that he has to be "tending the young." I wonder if it is all young Elves, or just this young Elf in particular that Beliond doesn't want to be saddled with? Does Beliond really think this mission is a step down for him? I know Beliond is a seasoned warrior, but Thranduil really is honoring him by trusting him with Legolas' well-being.
I loved the scene where Legolas sneaks a look at Beliond to see how the laundry ought to be done - sort of like a visitor to Legolas' house might have watched to see which fork to use. And Beliond gave Legolas advice and Legolas didn't bite his head off - Hey, it's progress!
Poor Tinar has a surprise coming to him when he gets married, doesn't he? Going to be in charge of his household because his wife is so timid...right. “Like many an Elf before him, he may find that marriage is not quite what he expects.” This remark from Beliond, while funny, surprises me because it implies that Beliond is married, or was. If he's following Legolas around then Beliond can't have much time at home, and even before this, Thranduil was always sending out Beliond on "special" missions. Hmm...
And Eilian gets another rune of protection! Not a bad thing, and maybe it's working, because Eilian seems in a slightly better mood. I'm interested to see if any kind of a relationship forms between Eilian and Galelas. I hope so - poor kid doesn't sound like he has an easy time at home with his father and brother.
Liked the scene with Alfirin and Ithilden talking about the swimming. Ithilden's innocence was quite charming. Alfirin is good for him, isn't she? I'm glad we're seeing another side to Ithilden in this story. I usually think of him as being just rules and structure. It's good to see him a little nervous and sweet.
BTW: Which story is it where Eilian is saddled with Tinar?
Author's reply
Eilian is Tinar's lieutenant in "Growing Under Shadow." (I had to think about that for a minute)
Thranduil is indeed honoring Beliond. There is no treasure in any of his storerooms that is more precious to him that what he has given into Beliond's hands. Perhaps it's not so much that Beliond dislikes the young as it is that he doesn't feel he is up to the task? ;-)
I hope Tinar's betrothed turns out to be a tough lady who makes him toe the line. Now *that* would be amusing.
I was worried as I wrote the swimming scene that it was entirely gratuitous Elf nakedness, but then I decided there was no such thing.
ANA
· 8 December 2003
· Chapter 4: News from Home
What a wonderful chapter! A bit of everyone and everything. It's amazing how you weaved the father-and-son/brother-and-brother relationships even though the family is not together. Your little scene of Legolas doing laundry is delightful - I can just picture him in all his youthfulness and inexperience. I can feel a truce developing between Legolas and Beliond or is that too premature? Anxiously awaiting more.
Author's reply
I'm glad it went together. I have been a little worried by the fact that my characters are scattered all over Mirkwood and I didn't want to neglect any of them. I'm trying to ease things bit by bit between Legolas and Beliond. After all, they are going to be spending hundreds of years in one another's company! But I don't want it to happen too fast either, both because that wouldn't be realistic and because it wouldn't be any fun.
The Karenator
· 8 December 2003
· Chapter 4: News from Home
Daw,
The young prince's excitement just gets better and better...now, he gets to do his laundry. It cracked me up that he had to steal glances over at the others to see how to do it. It remined me of a good friend I had in college that had never done laundry before in her life. She called home to their maid for a consult on the procedure then went down to laundry room where she piled her dirty clothes in the machine and poured in her soap. In a few minutes she saw someone take out their dry clothes from the machine next to hers. Very calmly she went over and removed all her dry clothes from the dryer... covered in detergent, folded them neatly and went back to her room. I saw my friend all over again as I read about Legolas faking his way through washing his clothes.
The swimming scene was great. I loved Alfirin's tale about the peeking maidens and Ithilden's obvious surprise. “My poor, respectable love,” she managed to gasp out. I'd add innocent, too. Who would have thought? This competent elf leads armies and has fought the enemy...a respectable warrior in his own right...a husband and father...and he's so innocent! And then he dressed like he was going to a fire. Kind of endearing. Poor Ithilden. I love Alfirin. It was a nice touch that when Sinnarn told Thranduil about his nana keeping the maidens away that he didn't understand...he just knew they didn't like them!
So the spiders are moving closer. I like what Thranduil told the settlement leaders. Just being right and having good reasons does not change the facts. I hate that he was displeased with Eilian, though I'd say Eilian's advice to the settlers was sound...as Thranduil said...I would, also, say that Eilian's reasons were rather personal for wanting the settlers to be safe. Oh! how hard it is to separate duty and the ways of the heart.
Now, Eilian has found evidence of wargs. It looks like the whole forest is heating up and Eilian may get his chance for a bit more excitement than he anticipated.
I thought it was interesting to see the different ways the brothers, Tinar and Galelas, each responded to the mention of the other. I'm actually beginning to feel sorry for Galelas. He seems to be doing well so far, but he'll never live up to his father's and brother's expectations.
Eilian has yet another rune of protection! He must be the most protected elf in the realm. It was very thoughtful of Ithilden. He's turning out to have a much softer side as we get to know him better. He's very much like Thranduil...which is a good thing in many ways.
Oh..Oh..oh! Another thing....Beliond's remark about marriage...very interesting.
Such wonderful rich characters, Daw. I look forward to more. Karen
Author's reply
Oh my word, that's a funny laundry story. Legolas did better than that, poor little rich boy.
I am becoming increasingly fond of Ithilden. I always thought that I had a harder time showing him because I had never given him a friend like Annael and Turgon or Maltanaur and Gelmir. But Alfirin has been just a treasure in revealing different sides of the crown prince. And she's teaching him a lot, I would say.
I originally thought of using Tinar and Galelas in this story just because I already have so many OCs that it seemed silly to make more, but then I thought that it might be interesting to have the two sets of brothers in the two patrols. I'll have to see what more I can do with it.
And you are so clever. I dropped two hints about Beliond's backstory in this chapter and you caught one! So far, you're the only one.
Nilmandra
· 8 December 2003
· Chapter 4: News from Home
I liked seeing the threads of each family member, but especially Beliond and Legolas. Beliond is already growing on me - I think Thranduil chose his son's keepers well. I think Beliond has a sotry to tell. I love that he knew Legolas was learning how to do laundry from watching him - and even gave advice!
I hope Alfirin continues to surprise Ithilden for a very long time.
Author's reply
It was the introduction of Beliond in "The Tide of Times" that suggested this story to me. I hadn't intended to write it at all but there he was and it seemed too good an opportunity to waste.
Ithilden is becoming increasingly fun to write about. I am glad he has happiness in his life because he also has so much responsibility.
And, as always, thank you, beta.
naneth
· 8 December 2003
· Chapter 4: News from Home
Wow, what a great surprise-I wasn't expecting you to post today. Hooray!
You did such a wonderful job balancing many story lines at once. I loved the transition from family member to family member.
Beliond can joke! Who would have guessed? There just may be hope for he and Legolas yet. Poor Legolas. It's hard to be homesick when you've looked forward for so long to growing up and out from your family.
Ithilden and Alfirin were so funny. Men can be soooo incredibly dense sometimes-but delightful, really!
Poor Thranduil has a lot to deal with as king and adar. He's handling well allowing Legolas grow up on his own, but still needs to work on his skills in dealing with Eilian. Wish he hadn't broached the subject of the settlers in that letter.
Ithilden did lots of growing in this chapter. He becomes a more wonderful character with each story that you write.
Eilian receiving a third rune from Ithilden was a "hoot"! I laughed out loud at that one.
Thanks for posting today. You brightened up a very gloomy Monday for me...thanks!
Author's reply
I'm glad you liked the chapter, Naneth. It was one I really enjoyed writing. I feel like I'm in the swing with this story now.
Ithilden has been the most difficult of my major OCs for me to get hold of, but he is really growing on me too. He is so honorable and responsible, but his relationships with his wife and son give me a chance to let him grow.
Poor Thranduil though. He loves Eilian. He just can't let him be.
Tapetum Lucidum
· 8 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
First patrol - Legolas must have been extremely excited. I am glad you started with him having a more positive impression of Beliond. That will be good for their relationship. Tinar may be the most reliable scout in the patrol but did Maltanaur warn Beliond about the rude elf's tendency to shoot keepers in the arm? I wonder if Legolas knows that story?
I am sure the prince wanted to be the first to sound the alarm but it would not be appropriate. The rookie is rarely the first to find something. Good job with that one. Galorion is something of a diplomat. He chose his words carefully when dealing with Beam. You had me snickering over Legolas' reaction to Beam's greeting. It was typical of a young, somewhat egotistical male. It is cool to be singled out as someone special, even though it is dangerous. Having Beam and Galorion glance at Legolas when discussing the notification of the king was also well done. Now the patrol leaders have to worry about information following the chain of command and whether or not the king will know everything they do. The captain can't be too excited about that. I am sure that Nitha would be happy to see Legolas. I imagine she has completely idolized him by now. It would be interesting to see his reaction to her fawning.
Your confrontation with the dwarves was a lot of fun. You can feel the animosity between the two races. Favorite line: "the Dwarves would be dead if either of them so much as checked the position of the axe on his back." I imagine they will follow the path of the dwarves to see what they have discovered. I enjoyed Legolas' first patrol as much as he did.
Author's reply
I had totally forgotten about Tinar shooting Maltanaur! You are right: Beliond should be careful. I'm thinking Legolas does not know about that. Eilian is actually pretty discrete about things that happen when he is in some sort of command role.
I think a visit to Nitha is in order. She would be about 17 now. I would have to think fairly carefully about how that meeting might go. ;-)
Legolas's first patrol must have been reassuring for him and for Beliond. He did OK and the two of them learned a little more about the degree to which they can trust one another.
Freakish as it makes me seem, Tapetum, I was just logging in to post my next chapter when I found your review. I'm excited about this story now.
caz - baz
· 8 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
yes, that did seem quite exciting for a first patrol but i suppose he is on the eastern border patrol which you hinted earlier was more dangerous than some others.
i'm glad him and Beliond seem to be getting on slightly better - in a way.
until next chapter.
Author's reply
The eastern border patrol should be interesting, I think, because it's in one of the few places in ME where Men,Dwarves, and Elves live close together. Good training for someone who will be wandering among all the races in a few hundred years with the Fellowship!
The Karenator
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
Daw,
What an exciting first day on patrol! Men and dwarves. I find that I kind of like Beliond. I think there's something deeper, a story to be told where he is concerned. He's obvious not altogether happy about his new assignment, but I can't believe for a second that the king would have posted someone to watch over his son that was not capable of handling his personal feelings. Legolas and Beliond have gotten off to a rocky start, but eventually they will have to come to some sort of understanding. I can't see either of them asking for a change from the king. And I know that they don't because he's still around when Legolas goes to Imladris...still going at it, but settled into a valued relationship. I couldn't help but think when Legolas and Beliond escorted the dwarves from the forest that if they had just been civil, then the dwarves would have told them what they knew! Oh prejudice rears its ugly head. The dwarves may not have, but they would have certainly had a better chance. Of course, they didn't know the dwarves knew something, but it seems a little diplomacy would be a good practice to begin with even though the dwarves were trespassing. But then, I'm just standing over here in the safety of the tree tops with a wide view of everything. I loved Legolas's realization that Ithilden might not tell Thranduil everything. Yes,Ithilden is bold,indeed! Gives Legolas a whole new perspective of his older brother. Another good chapter, Daw. I look forward to finding out what's going on in the forest. Trouble just seems to follow Legolas, but, then, I think that's your fault!...and much to our delight! Karen
Author's reply
Good and wise King Thranduil would indeed have chosen very carefully when he handed his youngest son's safety into someone keeping. That doesn't mean that Beliond is ever going to be Mr. Congeniality, of course!
What a good observation about how Elven prejudice kept them from learning something. Galorion (the lieutenant) was actually the most polite of the bunch, which I guess is why he's an officer. And he wasn't happy when Tinar was openly scornful. But they did blow their chance to get quick news.
And I have to admit I was tickled when I was able to give Legolas a new view of Ithilden. I have gradually come to admire Legolas's oldest brother more and more. He's tough and the realm is very lucky to have him.
Lera
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 2: Arrivals
Oh, crap. I meant Tinar, not Amdir.
Author's reply
I thought that's what you meant. ;-)
I now have so many OCs that even I can't keep them all straight.
Lera
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
It was great seeing Legolas in a completely new experience. Good ole' Tinar. I wouldn't mind seeing him take an unexpected swim either. Perhaps he has a very important role to play however. Maybe Legolas will be so annoyed by Tinar, that Beliond will be a relief.
I remember Nitha! I hope Legolas does go see her. That story was my favorite. I love seeing Legolas interact with little kids. Whatever happened to Amdir? Did Legolas really try to be his big brother or anything?
GOd Bless.
Author's reply
"Perhaps he has a very important role to play" - sort of like Gollum, you mean? :-) At least he provides someone besides Beliond for Legolas to get annoyed with.
Nitha should be about 17 now. I think that a little visit to her would be interesting!
Amdir is stored away on a shelf somewhere. He's a good 20 years younger than Legolas, so he wouldn't have been around the novice training fields. And I just have too many OCs to keep them all in play at once. I may use Amdir again some day.
Lera
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 2: Arrivals
The foremost thought in my mind after reading that chapter is: I like Todith. I really like him. He seems like a great captain, especially for a new warrior. I am quite thrilled to see Amdir. Honstly, you've got to have troublesome people to make things interesting. And funny.
Sigh. Will Legolas and Beliond ever learn to appreciate each other? Thranduil did a wonderful job picking Maltenaur for Eilien, no wait, first for Ithildien. I'm having to wonder about his choice of Beliond.
It was very sweet to see Legolas's thoughts as he falls asleep. I loved the thought of the elflings building a flet in Annael's backyard. A treehouse! Speaking of which I thought it was sad seeing how Legolas missed Annael. And poor Thranduil. We didn't see him in this chapter, but I can bet on how he's feeling.
What do you think of Orlando Bloom's portrayal of Legolas?
Ciao.
Author's reply
I like Todith too. I think he's a good captain in general. I also think that if he could serve as Eilian's captain (and make teach him to be a responsible warrior and leader), he could serve as anyone's!
I liked the idea of a treehouse for elflings too. I am just today planning to be writing about Thranduil thinking about Legolas. Poor king.
I will admit that Orlando Bloom's face is now how I see Legolas. And why not? The guy is gorgeous, plus he did manage to capture that combination of Elven innocence and fierce warrior that seems right for Legolas. Oh what the heck. Why not admit it? I am a squeeing fan girl.
naneth
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
Legolas is having fun on his first patrol, and so are we! Just wondering, how long do your elves stay on patrol before they return home for leave?
Great chapter. I'm enjoying your story (as usual!).
Author's reply
I think I said that Eilian got a leave every three months, although he got home more often if he was escorting wounded or serving as a messenger. But we are going to see Thranduil in the next chapter because we've been away from him long enough. ;-)
Arbelethiel
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
My Internet connection has been playing up recently, and I missed chp 2 :( On the other hand, I had *2* chapters to read when the Internet was back up, so it’s all good :D
I think I was about as excited as Legolas. I liked meeting the Men again, and I would not mind seeing more of Ninath. On the other hand, the Dwarves were a lot less friendly, and the hints they dropped are downright frightening. I mean, if the patrolling Elves don't know what the Dwarves are referring to, there is some trouble ahead.
Legolas may think that Manaltaur respects Eilian as a warrior and everything, but I’d bet that their beginning was er... stormy :) Especially knowing Eilian :)
~Arbelethiel
Author's reply
Oh you are so right! My guess would be that Maltanaur must have wondered what sins he had committed to deserve having Eilian on his hands.
And indeed, there is trouble ahead. Thank goodness!
Fadesintothewest
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
Thanks for the well wishes Daw!
Oh and I loved this chapter devoted to Legolas, but I have to admit, I like it when the chapters are split into both Legolas and Eilian.
Author's reply
I intended to write about both Legolas and Eilian in this chapter, but then it got too long so I had to move the Eilian material. I love the guy though, and can't neglect him for long.
Fadesintothewest
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
Beliond is beginning to take notice that maybe Legolas isn't as incompetent as he seems to think he is. There is going to be excitement as I fear what the Dwarves hinted at is something that will end up in the Elves path!
Author's reply
I *hope* there will be excitement! And indeed, the Dwarves' hints will eventually come back into play. In the meantime, Beliond and Legolas have to get to know one another a little more. That will be fun.
LOTRFaith
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
:-) An entire Legolas focused chapter. Yay! Though I did want to see how Eilian is faring. He has become a favorite OC for me. I really like how Beliond is starting to realize that Legolas ins't a spoiled little brat that thinks he can do everything and really can't. And I also like how Legolas isn't doing anything rash. ;-) And the dwarves and the men! I was happy to see Beam again. I always did like that man. ;-) Please post soon!
Author's reply
Legolas is doing well. He's a credit to the novice training and his own good sense (which he listens to most of the time, with only occasional trips into bad judgment). Beliond is seeing what Legolas can do, as you say. And Legolas was grateful for Beliond's presence in hunting the dwarves. So maybe they'll get along eventually.
One of the good things about having so many OCs is that I have one I can dust off and reuse for any occasion, so Beam gets to come back. I think we'll go visit Nitha too. She would be about 17 now. That might be interesting. ;-)
Brenda G.
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
Well, Legolas has finally gotten it under his belt - his first day on patrol. And what a day! Men, downed trees, a first time brush with Dwarves! I know most readers may not care for Beliond any more than Legolas seems to, but I am beginning to warm to him. Just when Legolas thinks he's in for a reprimand, Beliond compliments or encourages him. I wish Legolas could see this older Elf's worth to his molding as a warrior. Any Elf that fought at Dagorlad and lived has something to offer a rookie warrior if that same rookie will listen and learn from him. I believe Beliond feels that guarding (or babysitting) Legolas is beneath him, but I also know that Beliond is Thranduil's Elf for the job and he will do whatever his King commands. If he was previously on special mission for the King, then he must be an Elf to be reckoned with. I remember how astonished Legolas was that Beliond was even more silent in the forest than Ananel. There is reason for admiration there on the part of Beliond's young charge. I feel that time is key to getting the veteran and rookie to come together. For now, however, I think Legolas is very lucky to have Beliond. I'm sure Thranduil is of the same mind...
Speaking of our Woodland King, when are we traveling back to the throne room to gauge how our King is taking the absence of his "last chick"? Also, how fares the gloomy Eilian? I do hope enough mischief ensues on Legolas' first patrol that he will get a taste of at least some of the adventure he thinks to experience as a warrior. I'm ready for Orcs and a battle! How about it, Daw? Any chance that we will see arrows fly in the upcoming chapters? I hope Beliond gets an eyeful of how deadly Legolas is with his bow. That might raise the rookie in our vet's eyes.
This is going to be a wonderful story, and I am always and ever ready for more.
BG
Author's reply
I think we might see a battle or two! I had planned to go back to the homefront in the next chapter. I was going to write about Eilian in this one, but it got too long, so I put that material somewhere else, maybe the end of the next chapter, maybe the one after that.
Thranduil chose wisely when he picked Maltanaur to look after Eilian, and he probably chose just as wisely when he picked Beliond. But neither Beliond nor Legolas is ready to see that completely yet. I think they did OK on their first patrol though. Things got better instead of worse, at least for the most part.
It's funny. I was very unhappy with this chapter most of the time I was writing it, and then in the last day, it just got better. I went through and added lines throughout to make it be about Legolas and Beliond and not just what happened, and then I was happy.
Hm. That's sounds a little egotistical. I guess I'm just saying thanks for the review!
meckinock
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
Ah, Legolas feeling his oats- having a bit of fun with Beliond, throwing his weight around with some Dwarves...that plucky personality is starting to re-assert itself. The tug-of-war between him and Beliond is intriguing, and it's interesting to see the impact on the patrol of having the King's son along - Legolas obviously has a lot to learn about bureaucracies and not telling the boss things he doesn't need to know!
Author's reply
Legolas had a good day! I'm feeling my way along, writing about him as a young adult who needs to establish his own identity but also needs to follow orders and somehow come to terms with his opinionated keeper. That's quite a task, when you think of it. I have to admit to being amused at the idea of Beam and Galorion considering Legolas in their plan to keep Thranduil happy. I think they just have to trust him!
Nilmandra
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
Ha - his first patrol and he meets Men and Dwarves? I think excitement might just follow Legolas as it does Eiian. But then, we would expect Men and Dwarves around the easter border of the forest.
I am curious to know what the Dwarves saw....and I liked the interaction between Beliond and Legolas. He is seeing Legolas in a new light, and hopefully Legolas will be more tactful and maybe respectful (not sure that is the right word) to Beliond. I hope Beliond becomes to him what Maltanaur is to Eilian.
Btw, I have stared the official Maltanaur fan club. Wanna join? :D
Author's reply
I love Maltanaur. He has grown on me like crazy over the course of these stories, turning to a guard who is also a friend to Eilian. Thranduil did well in choosing him. We'll see how the choice of Beliond works out. So far, Legolas has had excitement with no real danger. He may feel differently about Beliond once some sort of battle occurs.
Dot
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
Wow, lucky Legolas! I love the way he’s absolutely thrilled by all the excitement and Galorion is amusedly indulgent of him, as if he’s completely enjoying how eager the new warrior is.
What a pain Tinar is. Did he think he was imparting invaluable advice, then? No doubt Galorion isn’t the only one who’d like to see him take an unexpected swim!
I really like the way you introduced the idea of men being in the forest. That one short sentence “A Man had walked into the forest here”. Brilliant. It totally conveys Legolas’ utter shock at such an idea. And yay, it’s Beam! I thought Beam handled himself very well – you can tell he’s encountered elves before! It’s quite funny, though, that he’s still so wary of angering Thranduil! I almost felt sorry for Beliond – he purposely avoided mentioning the king’s son and then Beam not only recognises Legolas but treats him with more familiarity than many elves would!
So the commander keeps information from his king, does he?! I thought it was a wonderful moment when Legolas realises that Ithilden sometimes has to make the decision not to let Thranduil know certain things – it’s almost as if the idea is completely incomprehensible to him! Interesting too that the others almost don’t seem to want Legolas to know this, while presumably also realising that he must know that he cannot necessarily speak freely of these events when he returns home.
Yikes, dwarves! I’m still laughing at how funny the elves found their claim that they got lost in the woods. It’s hilarious how ridiculous they found it – even Beliond managed a smile! But just what are the dwarves hinting at? I’m guessing it’s more than just trees being chopped down….
I liked the scene between Legolas and Beliond. It’s quite sad, really, that Legolas is being trained to regard anyone of another race as a potential enemy but I suppose I can see Beliond’s point about Legolas being too willing to trust them. I’m glad Beliond is willing to acknowledge Legolas’ strengths and show him that he does have at least some faith in him. So there’s hope for the two of them yet – all we need now is Legolas to say something nice to Beliond… He should nearly do it just to shock him anyway!;)
Author's reply
I think that Galorion is amused by the young warrior's enthusiasm, and that's nice because Beliond does not seem to be so much.
I have so many OCs now that I have one on call for almost any occasion. So Beam comes back and I think we're going to see Nitha too. She should be about 17 now. I smile to myself at that thought.
I thought that Beam and Galorion might be worried that Legolas would talk at home, but they didn't ask him not to because if he's not going to, then they don't need to ask him, and if he is, asking him probably won't do any good. I think that Legolas is seeing a different side of Ithilden when he sees him through others' eyes like this.
Getting lost in the woods is such a funny thought to these elves that the dwarves are lucky they didn't fall down laughing.
JS
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
You know sometimes its hard for me to keep interest in fanfic that has so many original characters, but I have to say I've loved your stories ever since I started reading a few weeks ago. They're written so well, I stop noticing! I love the development you've had in Legolas' character as well. Awesome story, I check daily to see if more's been posted. I can't wait to see how the relationship between Legolas and Beliond progresses. Hope to see more soon!
Author's reply
I was really happy to hear you say that about the OCs. I am starting to get very concerned about how many there are. I'm afraid that new readers might have trouble figuring out what's going on. I try to keep Legolas or Thranduil in every chapter, but once in a while there's a chapter that's all OC and then I really flinch. But I love my OCs. :-)
Jay of Lasgalen
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
I liked the encounter with both the men and the dwarves - it is interesting to see Legolas meet other races. It's also interesting to note that Beliond does not seem to trust either group at all, especially that he thinks Legolas is being rash in talking to the men.
I'm curious, though - what is it the dwarves have not said? And Ithilden is mad if he thinks he can keep this from his father - I would expect Thranduil to be able to sense the destruction of his forest.
Jay
Author's reply
Ah, Jay. You have faith in the elven king. We'll have to wait a little to see if it's well-founded.
One of the things that's interesting about this part of Middle-earth is that Men, Dwarves, and Elves live close to one another. It must have been a kind of cosmopolitan area by ME standards. But Beliond is not very trusting and I suppose given that he's got the king's son in his care, it's better that he not be.
Antigone_Q
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 3: A First Patrol
Yay! I was hoping to see a chapter from you, and here it is! Legolas must be happy he's getting some "action" on patrol. I like the way you are highlighting the Man-Dwarf-Elf tension. Will there be more of that later?
I see Beliond and Legolas are having at least the occasional moment of mutual agreement. That's good news! You know, I hope Legolas ends up working well with Tinár, too. I get the feeling he doesn't have many friends; being close to Legolas might improve him some...if Legolas didn't toss him in the river first.
You won't forget about Eilian, will you?
Author's reply
I would never forget about Eilian. I thought I would write about him in this chapter too, but it got too long so I had to rearrange things a little.
I actually feel kind of sorry for Tinar. It must be so lonely to be him. But then I tell myself that he is his own favorite person so he's never far from the one he loves best.