A Question of Duty by daw the minstrel
Snowline · 14 October 2017 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Brilliant story. I felt it was poignant at the end. I have enjoyed all the stories that you have written.
Author's reply
Thank you for telling me this, Snowline. I love hearing that people still enjoy these stories. The characters were very dear to me. daw
Matt · 26 February 2017 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
I've been rereading many of your stories (not all, as some are too short), and am reminded how much I liked your work when you published it when I was racing toward completion of a dissertation. A great way to be distracted from my own writing. Because I can't see I often find Kindle books a huge pain but can pretty much guarantee that if you do ever come back to these characters you'll have one reader at least. Thanks so much for your hard work on this incredibly well done A/U.
Author's reply
Thanks for the kind words, Matt. And if the stories solaced you while you wrote a dissertation, I'm glad. I wrote one of those too, and it's a long haul. daw
Eriol · 24 June 2016 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
I started out wanting to let Daw know how much I like her stories and am grateful for her latest offering, however, when I read the previous review and Daw’s answer, I just felt I had to offer up what little I understand of some concepts concerning elves (of course it is only my interpretation). I think the concept of “the time of the Elves are ending” is a way to show how the ancient world where the world is “magical/mythical”, is ending. In the first age, the gods (valar) walked the earth, elves awoke in it and played out their fates in it, and Men were their younger brothers in a way (the second-born). In the second age, the gods are no longer coming physically to Middle-earth but they were still connected to it – if one sails west, one will reach Valinor. But with the sinking of Numenor, the world was bent, the straight road is lost forever and Men cannot see the gods anymore; the elves still can if they choose to leave Middle-earth and sail west (by the way, after the world was bent, I don’t think even the elves can go back and forth between Valinor and Middle-earth). In the third age, the elves are now reduced to a minority, hidden and starting to become fiction to Men. The fourth age is called the age of Men, the beginning of the world as we now know it, where the connection with “magic/myth” is lost. No one believes in elves anymore, no one communicates with trees and the stars anymore, no one believes that there is a soul in every living thing any more. As for elves having the sea-longing, it almost works like a wake-up call to their real nature, and often can result in a conflict in their souls between their final “true home” and the home they awoke in, for elves are immortal and Middle-earth is not their real milieu; they stayed in it and gave the fathers of Men a friendship the effects of which, I hope, have lingered to this day. Elves, even though we love them and like to write about them so much, and think of them as behaving very similarly to us, are really not of this world, at least, not of the world after the third age. Still, I guess, the fact that we love them so much might mean that we still remember their friendship from long ago.
Author's reply
Eriol, thank you so much! Your interpretation makes sense and sounds totally consistent with the bits I've read of Tolkien's thinking. Fitting it into the structure of the four ages helps clarify it immensely. Also, I'm glad you like the stories. It's true that elves are fun to write about. daw
Asms2 · 6 June 2016 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Oh gosh, this ending! I am feeling all sorts of sad for Thranduil. He can’t lose his baby to the sea! Legolas stay! Awww. His brothers will be hart-broken. Legolas, can’t you just have a happily-ever-after with your awesome family?! :) I love this line from Beliond: “Most of us have more than one reason for what we do,” he said, “and are prouder of some of our reasons than others.” – well put! Picturing Ithilden running to Thranduil's office because Beliond came back without Legolas = aww! I would not want to be Beliond trying to explain to Thranduil and Ithilden why Legolas is marching off to the most dangerous place in Middle Earth alone (no keepers or other elfs with him). I'm sure it is also emotionally difficult for Beliond considering he has spent centuries of his life trying to keep Legolas from harm. In fact, while I was reading this story, I thought that Beliond might get injured or something before Legolas makes his choice, because I just had such a hard time picturing him willing letting Legolas go. When Legolas says he is going to sail, it almost feels like he is dieing. And it is such a sad moment. I googled sailing west to try to understand it a little better. But peices of the whole concept still seem somewhat illogical. They spent all those centuries fighting to protect their homes from the shadow/evil, and they finally got what they wanted! So why then do so many want to leave when they finally have what was fought for? I love your versions of Legolas and his family so much that it's hard/sad for me to think they are separated shortly after the war. Poor things!! My heart is breaking for all of them. This is a sign of your great writing, I really care about these characters!! Well done :)
Author's reply
I love the way you're responding to the very end. I wrote that last chapter long after I'd written the rest of the story, which was actually one of the first I wrote. I used to regret that sometimes because it meant I'd boxed myself in about who I could kill at the Battle of the Five Armies, for instance. I confess I don't understand sailing or going west very well. I heard Elijah Wood say that when he and Bilbo sail at the end of ROTK, that could be read as dying. But obviously elves go back and forth. So I don't know. As for why the elves left, Tolkien says the time of the elves was ending. So....what does that mean? Why? I don't know. It's like they're weary and need to go home. Certainly that's how I read Legolas. He does spend some time in Middle-earth before he sails though. He stays until Aragorn dies, which is over 100 years along. He takes some of his father's people and settles in Ithilien, which is where Faramir ends up as ruler. Tolkien is too much for me sometimes. He changes his mind, contradicts himself, and spent a lifetime working all this out, so I just have to give up sometimes. Thank you for the kind words. daw
Gwynhyffar · 4 May 2016 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
I can't log in anymore, and my email that I used to set my account up here is no longer active so I can't retrieve my password, but it's Gwynhyffar... I should have looked sooner to see if you had anything new here. I love seeing some new content from you! I love the added scenes here and am looking forward to reading the other new offerings :) I've missed your characters too!
Author's reply
Hey, Gwyn! I almost never sign in to review. If you want your password from here, I can probably retrieve it for you though. Let me know. How can you tell what's new? Oh wait. I guess you can look at the dates? The next story will be a while because I work on it in breaks from the stuff I'm doing for publication. I had a good time working on it today though.
sofiab · 14 March 2016 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
I have to say I had been waiting for this missing scene. I had always wondered at Thranduil's reaction to Legolas going on the quest, and his return so when I saw that you had updated this story in particular with a missing scene I got excited. I would love it if you expanded on this missing scene, actually. I would love to see the battle of the greenwood with Thranduil and Ithilden and Eilian and the others, and I would love to see how Legolas would cope with being home after everything that happened. I know that you probably have no intentions of doing that but if you ever did, I would love it! Again, thank you for writing. It was a real treat to come back to your stories and see that there were several new ones to read when I was expecting none. I may not read them right after you put them up (because I simply don't know they are up!) but I will always read them in time. And then over and over again.
Author's reply
Hi, Sophia-- I just found this review. Somehow it missed being sent to me. I've often thought the Battle of the Greenwood would make an awesome story. It would take some work because anyone writing it would have to spend some time looking up canon and dates and stuff, but it would be wonderful. Or here's an idea: parallel stories of Legolas on the Quest and events in the Greenwood, cutting back and forth. Maybe I'll get around to it one of these days. This particular missing scene was a pleasure to write. Poor Thranduil. His baby went into danger and came home, and then had to leave again. daw
LiljeConvallaria · 6 November 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Omg! You wrote more of this. I haven't read your stories(or LOTR) in years, then on a whim I decide to reread some of your stories and see that you've written more! Yey.
Author's reply
Hey, I'm glad I made you happy! I haven't written a lot more because I've been busy trying to write original fic, but I was glad to have a chance to round this story out a little with Beliond's and Legolas's returns. Poor Thranduil. He's valiant and life hasn't given him much of a break. daw
Noor · 1 September 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Thank you for this chapter - very moving. Good to see how pleased Legolas' family were to have him back. This also ties in with Bodkin's " Into The West" when Ithilden et al arrive to greet Legolas. Thank you once again Daw! I was also very excited to see the first chapter of your new story. Looking forward to savouring a story about all 3 siblings.
Author's reply
I was thinking of Bodkin's story when I wrote this. She did such a nice job of showing these characters in Valinor that I wanted to fit with that. She really is a beautiful writer. Someone writing at ff.net recently showed me a story she'd written about my characters post Ring War and I liked it so much I suggested she post it. I think she only posts there, but you might like her story: https://www.fanfiction.net/s/11466316/1/Reunion
naneth · 22 July 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Thank you for sharing this missing scene. I've often pondered how much Thranduil may have sensed of his son's journey or of his fears and dangers along the way. I've also wondered how patient the family would be waiting for Legolas to finish ceremonies, slow travels, and sight seeing in Middle Earth before he returned home. Happy to share your world again!
Author's reply
I didn't think I needed this scene, but when I started writing, I realized I'd been worried about Thranduil all along. So like you, I have must have been pondering it somewhere in my head. It's incredible how slowly they had to travel though, isn't it? If there wasn't a river, people walked most places. No wonder they didn't travel far from home. Thanks for telling me you enjoyed, Naneth.
Levade · 24 June 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Oh Daw! Geez, here you say my story brought tears to your eyes, and you did the very same to me with this! I have to tell you this. I've struggled to like Thranduil for years, and the films did zip to help that. Yes, he was a beautiful character in looks but wow, did they do disjustice to his character! With that in mind, I went back to re-read your stories and find the Thranduil I remember seeing and liking quite a lot. And his sons, his beautiful, willful, always in some sort of trouble sons. I am SO thrilled that your writing is finally going to get the recognition it deserves, and you worked hard for it, I know! But I am equally thrilled to sit here and read this chapter. It was full of so much, so much that you brought to me and brought to life. I love Thranduil in this. He is proud, yes, and arrogant, sure. So what. ;) He is also a fiercely loving father who only wants his sons to live and live well. To have this last look at Legolas (I hope not, but I realize your time and energy is best spent in what sells), and the heart-breaking reunion with Thranduil and Eilian (yes, I admit it...I am a fangirl XD) and see his understanding.... UGH. Heart. Cracking! I've been stuck on that story I told you about. Stuck, and trying to wrap my brain around a character I kind of grudgingly like, and here? You effortlessly (I know, not really) showed me his heart and soul. Thanks for all the fishes! ;D And stories. I wish you the very, very best of luck in your endeavors.
Author's reply
Bless you, Levade. I struggled for words when I wrote today and this made me happy. Also, *I* am an Eilian fangirl so you can fan him all you want. He was the first OC I ever created and he's still my favorite. But this chapter was Thranduil's all the way. I wouldn't want to cross the guy, but I admire him no end. When I first started writing, ff.net had a bunch of cruel-father-Thranduil stories, which I thought was un-elflike. So I set out to make him tough but, as you say, fierce in his devotion to his family. It would about kill him to come through the war, think everything was on the mend, and find he'd lost his youngest son. I hope your story gets back on track because I'd like to read it. :-) daw
Nilmandra · 22 June 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Hey, I didn't know you wrote this. It must've been when I was really sick because I don't remember it. It's perfect though. It's that missing scene, that thread that needed to be tied up desperately. I'm in tears and since I have to dictate now I can't say more.
Author's reply
Thank you. It was interesting to write because, as you see, there's no plot. It's all emotion. It's what these people feel at the end of a long battle and a long family life together. And because I've so written so much about them, I could understate it. Thank you for all you've done for me, Nilmandra.
Annariel · 22 June 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Well yes this is a missing scene!! So glad it was written :) Beliond facing Thranduil and Ithiden... so scary!! I adore this elf family and I miss your stories. Maybe could you write about Legolas in Ithilien? I hope...
Author's reply
Thranduil is one scary guy, and Ithilden is not much easier. But Beliond has known Thranduil a long time, and not much scares him. Still, I wouldn't want to be the one to do it. Thanks for the kind words. daw
Alice · 21 June 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Ahhhhh! Another chapter! What a delightful surprise. I'm not returning every day to check for new stories anymore but I do come back every so often to reread your stories. Your stories are up definitely comfort reads for me. I'm just THRILLED that you are having a book published and will keep my eyes peeled for it in September. I miss your fanfiction though. Will you be returning to write anymore? I'm so glad this is a scene you wrote. After reading everything about Thranduil when Legolas was growing up (and about Beliond), it's such a necessary scene. While reading it I had this horrible fear that Thranduil was about to clap Beliond in chains for failing to do his duty. I find it so interesting to see how much the last few decades have changed Thranduil's perception of Legolas as an adult, dwarves and the world at large. A few centuries ago and Thranduil would have hit the roof at either Legolas going off to destroy the one ring or bringing home a dwarf for an undefinable long stay. It makes me so sad to think of everything that the Mirkwood family has gone through during the return of Sauron.
Author's reply
How nice to hear from you, Alice! I was telling someone else that to me, Tolkien's tone is often melancholy. I think of Frodo, who saved the Shire which he was, to quote Bilbo, still in love with. And then he can't live there in contentment any more. Legolas's sea longing is like that too. Poor Thranduil. He's fought a long fight. Writing stuff that's not fanfic is fun, but trying to publish it is a big pain. However, I'll tell you that the book coming out in September has a pair of brothers I think of as young Ithilden and Eilian born into a different world. So I hope people like it. As for more fanfic, tomorrow is Nilmandra's birthday. Just saying. :-)
Larner · 12 June 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Oh, yes, the world has indeed changed, and nothing is as it was before. An Elf and the son of a Dwarf mistreated by the Elf's father are now friends, the Greenwood must heal as is true of the rest of Middle Earth, and many have suffered. But at last peace has come, even if it is but a brief time for those Elves who yet live in Middle Earth to make their choices as to stay or sail west at last. A wonderful tale, and I rejoice that you added this scene to it. Thank you so!
Author's reply
Tolkien's tone has always struck me as melancholy or, at best, bitter-sweet. Everything costs and hard won battles don't stay won. But, as you say, for now, there's peace. Thank you for all these nice reviews. daw
Larner · 12 June 2015 · Chapter 9: The Decision
I find myself proud of both Legolas and Beliond. Both now have a better feel for the reality of the danger facing them here in the wider world, and Beliond realizes that Legolas will indeed be needed on this quest.
Author's reply
It was a hard decision for both of them. It pulled them right out of the path they each thought they were on.
Larner · 11 June 2015 · Chapter 8: Fire
Aha! It would appear these ruffians are dealing with Isengard, or perhaps stealing from those stores Lotho has been sending southwards out of the Shire. Got the good stuff, eh? Legolas will in time be well experienced in what the good stuff smells like, I'd think! Heh!
Author's reply
The pipeweed makes a nice link with bad guys. Fortunately it's fallen into better hands. :-)
Larner · 11 June 2015 · Chapter 7: Smoke
I love the reference to the cairn on which Gandalf left his message after he was attacked on Weathertop. A good way to leave messages. And Amdir is obviously learning to accommodate to circumstances and the company that the Elves find themselves among.
Author's reply
This story was one of the most canonical ones I've ever written. I had to keep checking the time frame and looking up what Tolkien might have written about any part of Middle-earth. I don't know how he kept track of his own story.
Larner · 11 June 2015 · Chapter 6: Into the Angle
I have always loved the responsibility displayed by the northern Dunedain. At least Legolas and his fellows are beginning to find reason to respect these Men.
Author's reply
The part set in the angle was interesting to write. I'd never thought about how it would look or be like, so it was a chance to develop a whole new setting with a different culture. The Dunedain were tough and loyal. Their hard life still had room for love and joy.
Larner · 11 June 2015 · Chapter 5: Aftermath of the Council
Ah, but we see the beginning of Legolas's eventual agreement to join the Fellowship, I think. And Beliond can perhaps see where Legolas will go in the end, I believe.
Author's reply
Poor Beliond. He's worried for Legolas, and he'd also have to go home to face Thranduil.
Larner · 11 June 2015 · Chapter 4: Those Who Wander
Ah, and welcome, Boromir. The Council now gathers, and in moments they will begin hearing one another's tales and learning just why the Powers have drawn each and all of them here at this time. And the reality of Isildur's Bane will be made plain.
Author's reply
Scary thought!
Larner · 11 June 2015 · Chapter 3: Meeting Old Friends?
Family resemblances can be useful at least from time to time. Love Aragorn's mischievous side!
Author's reply
I have a hard time wrapping my head around the way Elves must have seen time. Think of all the heirs of Isildur fostered in Elrond's house, leaving, growing old, and dying. The Elves saw them all as one family but they probably knew next to nothing about the ones 5 or 6 generations back.
Larner · 11 June 2015 · Chapter 2: Making New Friends?
Indeed, fortune (or more likely divine providence) has its distinct place in the happenings within Middle Earth, as we well recognize.
Author's reply
Yes, exactly! I wonder where Tolkien stood on the question of free will. I suppose they all could have refused the opportunity here.
Larner · 11 June 2015 · Chapter 1: Arrival at Imladris
He is still ignorant of the fact that he is not the only "unexpected" guest present in Elrond's dwelling, and that he has far more of a part to play than he realizes.
Author's reply
It seems to me that most of the Fellowship walked into Imladris totally unaware that they were walking into their destiny. Elrond didn't "call" that council, after all. The Valar sent them all.
elliska · 7 June 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Oh my gosh! I am really seeing this. Happy Birthday to Meckinock! And what a present for all of us! I can't believe it. These are the scenes I've most wanted to see. And I love them. At least, he was the last time I saw him. This is not something I'd want to say to Thranduil! And facing Ithilden was not any easier! I loved this conversation. Well-written tension that depends on character development. And Thranduil's final words (in this part) to Eilian are perfect. Given the sum of your fanfic, this trust he places in who Legolas has become is perfect. As for the last part, it is so goos to see how everyone came through the war. Thranduil's reaction to Gimli and Legolas's Sea longing...perfect. I absolutely loved this. I am so glad you gave us this. Thank you!
Author's reply
Thanks for the kind words, Elliska. I love Thranduil. I think sea longing would be almost beyond his comprehension (as would being best friends with a dwarf), but for one of his sons, he hides his own pain and does what that son needs.
Dreamflower · 5 June 2015 · Chapter 10: Returns: A Missing Scene
Ah, how lovely to see something new in your Mirkwood! You are one of the handful of Elf-writers who always delight me. In fact, I think you have influenced some of my own interpretation of Legolas. I love the way you portray Thranduil's reactions. He keeps his dismay to himself, and only allows his pride in Legolas to show. I also love his reaction to Gimli as well. I've always thought he'd be more reasonable about his son's friendship with a Dwarf than some portray him. I miss your stories, but congratulations on being published!
Author's reply
Thank you, Dreamflower. It's funny how we Tolkien fanficcers divide into tribes sort of like the people of Middle-earth. At the end of THE HOBBIT (Tolkien's, not PJ's, bless the man's brilliant but twisted heart), Thranduil seems to me to be willing to make peace if only for practical reasons. Of course, later in Tolkien's timeline, Legolas is still hostile to dwarves, so I suppose Thranduil could have been sharp tongued in private. But surely by the time Legolas came home, Thranduil had put some things in perspective. All out war might do that for you. IOW, I share your view. :-) I miss writing these stories. At some point, I'll probably see what else I can do. It's too much fun not to. The Hobbit writers awe me by their continued productivity.