Fadesintothewest
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 6: Making Trades
Oh I wanted to punch both the leaders of the human and elven settlements, for giving our Legolas such headache. Alas Legolas performed with much astuteness as only he could. I just cringe thinking about how Thranduil will react!
Author's reply
See, you were worried about how Thranduil would react and now that you have read the next chapter, you know he'll pat Legolas on the head and say "Thank the Valar for you, my son." Either that or he'll be in such a bad mood that he'll have all three of his kids locked up for life.
Any
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Oh my! Phew! It's a bit hot in here, is it not? *waves with her blouse's collar* Pooohhh... ;) Oh Daw, that was such a good chapter! I'm so glad for Eilian and Celuwen even though it's clear there's very stormy weather ahead now for them. Oh my, Celuwen's ada will have Eilian's hide! *argh* And Thranduil? Well, I cannot see him being as glad for his son as I and most likely all your other readers are - to say the least! :/ But Eilian is right, of course, no one can change what they've done now, no one can break their bond! So, it's worth the risk - Celuwen and he finally got what they've longed for all those years and that is all that should matter. They deserve this! They have waited so long - too long if you ask me! *sigh* If only things would go smoothly for them from now on, but I cannot for the life of me see their fathers happily pat them on their backs, saying "Well done, children! We're happy for you!" *doublesigh*...
And Legolas, well, well, so he likes the settlers now? *gg* Yeah right, I'm sure he *likes* all of them equally! ;) Hehe... Annael's reaction is so typical male! I mean, hey, if my best friend would crawl back into our room in the middle of the night and radiate such contentment I'd be very suspicious even in my half-sleepy state. I'd knew instantly that something rather, uhm, interesting must have happened to her and I'd bombard her with question until I knew everything! But men - they just don't see things like that! Oh my... *sigh*
~Any
Author's reply
You made me laugh with that quote about "Well done, children!" It is hard to imagine Solith or Thranduil saying that under the circumstances. But when you come right down to it, what's done is done. There will be some unpleasant moments, but these two will weather them I think. I am actually a little more uncertain about how Celuwen will live when Eilian is gone. I suspect that when she comes to her senses again, that's going to be a big question that Eilian seduced her into ignoring.
I thought that too about roommates!! Annael can probably make some guesses though. I just think males are less likely to want all the details.
Antigone Q
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Hoooooly cow! I...wow! I shall put my eyeballs back in my skull now. Thank you, Daw, I do think I jokingly asked for a "steamy Eilian scene" some while back, but I didn't really think you'd do it! It was, by the way, very appropriate to the story and tastefully done. They are adults bonding for life, after all.
Eilian and Celuwen have solved one set of problems, but now will have to face the wrath of both Adars. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if both Thranduil and Solith put the brunt of the blame on Eilian because he has such a reputation for being reckless, though it does "take two to tango" as they say. For my part, I'm a little stunned myself that Eilian ignored Thranduil so thoroughly. Sparks are going to fly sooner rather than later - as I recall from LACE, Elves can tell who's bonded by the look in their eyes, and Eilian and Celuwen have to go back in the house some time.
As for Legolas, I like what you are doing with him. Tuilinn seems nice: she likes children of all sorts and she has good taste in male Elves. I hope Legolas gets to spend some time with her.
Author's reply
This is not the usual kind of scene I write, I know. But it has seemed to me for months now that it's how these two would break through the impasse they were at. Now they'll deal with the consequences, but they both know that whatever else happens, that bond cannot be undone. So let the stormy winds blow!
And Legolas is entitled to some happy moments too, poor thing.
rikwen
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Oh wow! What a impulsive thing for Eilian to do. But I think he is right, it will be the only way he and Celuwen will ever get together. And it doesn't matter what Thranduil will think, the way he is connected to his children, he will already be aware that something is up and that Eilian didn't follow the game plan. Though the two lovebirds, like the old saying, have neither pot to piss in or window to throw it out of, are going to do ok. Even with the coming fireworks, I think Eilian and Celuwen are strong people and they will love deeply with or without their parents consent.
As to your concerns, the bonding scene was well written, it showed a lot of love and dedication between two people. The scene of the bonding statements between just the two of them made me sniff a time or two (tissues were not on hand). Ah, true love...
As to Legolas, kissing under the apple trees. That he found someone who can listen to him talk about his time on the Southern Patrol can be healing, especially since he is giving up his home leave for this trip. Even though nothing may come of it (yes cannonically he sailed alone with Gimli to Valinor at the end), it doesn't mean that Legolas did not love and was loved. Sweet dreams to the younger brother.
Author's reply
I like your faith that things will turn out OK. The thing I remind myself of as I get ready to write is that Thranduil loves his children and wants them to be happy. His main concern, I think, will be if there are consequences to his governance of the realm. That and the fact the Eilian more or less blew him off. He should be used to that by now, but I suspect he's still not going to be happy about it.
I just could not imagine that Legolas never looked at a maiden in all those years. I did not want to think of him as lonely or unloved. But then, he does go to Valinor with Gimli. So whatever happens has to accomodate that.
mer
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Hi Daw,
I add to your reviews so infrequently, I am sorry to say. My bad habit is by far in inverse proportion to your gift to us. This is another wonderful chapter in another interesting story. I have read your stories for about one year now--the first time I 'met' Eilian (sp?)--and I liked him right away. I have a soft spot for caring males (real or imagined). I also know some people who remind me of Celuwen's father. I wonder, how closely related to people you know are your characters? Well, thanks again.
Author's reply
Thank you, mer. I kind of have a soft spot in my heart for Eilian too. He's impulsive, but really generous and loyal and loving.
I don't usually base my characters on people I know, although sometimes when I'm having trouble thinking of what a character would do, I try to think of a model that might be consistent with them. Like for Anyr, for instance, I picture hippies, opposed to war, generous to others, and expecting everyone to take care of them. I have to admit I have a professional acquaintance whom I sometimes think of when I'm writing about Tinar. Sad but true!
White Wolf
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
That scene between Eilain and Celuwen was steamy enough to raise a reader's eyebrows, especially since you aren't known for writing that sort of thing. You described it very well. I am very happy that they have finally consummated their love, but boy are Thranduil and Solith going to be furious. I have the feeling that the fallout will be worse from Thranduil.
It looks like Legolas little tryst didn't quite produce the same amount of sparks, but I think he is learning more about the joys of an adult elf maiden. Good for him.
Author's reply
I have never written anything like this before, but the situation seemed to call for it. I was a little worried I would offend people, so I tried to make sure that people were warned. But these two were bonding and that means they needed to make love, not just have sex but make love.
Having said that, I think you are right on. Both adars are going to go ballistic and Thranduil is not only an adar, he's the king. Plus he gave Eilian some pretty specific instructions that Eilian ignored. Sparks are going to fly. I haven't tried to write that yet. At the moment, I'm back writing about the looney toon elves that Legolas is dealing with.
Morrigan
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Wonderful story!!! Like all the others you wrote.
Owww! I never thought you would be so graphic !! :p
I hope youre not going to make Legolas fall in love for that she-elf. By what Tolkien wrote in his books Legolas never found anyone in Arda. I know that there is waaaaay more left unsaid (or unwritten in this case) than what is in the books but I think that its more logical this way. Otherwise I dont think he would be sailing alone with Gimli in the end. Anyway... I think (even) more romantic for him to find his soulmate in Valinor...
Other reason: if he falls in love for Tuilin it would be a repetition of Eilian. I dont think a repetition like that would be interesting... even if her parents like him. It would be better if he loves ... I dont know... someone in another realm?
Well congratulations!!! Youre one of the best writers around (if not THE best!!)
Author's reply
Patience, Morrigan! I have plans for Legolas that I hope will neither be too repetitious of what I have done with Eilian nor be wildly uncanonical. You'll have to tell me at the end of the story how I've done!
I never thought I would be that graphic either, which is why you should have gotten a warning when you clicked on the chapter! I was blushing as I wrote. But it seemed to me that these two were bonding, which for Elves means a union of body and soul. It's consummating the relationship that cements it, so I thought I needed to show it. I tried to stay in the bounds of good taste, but I also hate euphemisms. They seem like weak writing to me, so I sort of called a spade a spade, so to speak!
Thanks for the review.
LKK
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Oh me, oh my.
I'm nervously happy for the newlyweds. *Very* nervously happy. There are gonna be some upset people, I foresee. Oh wow. I thought Mithrandir could produce spectacular fireworks. I bet the fireworks that Solith and Thranduil produce will put the wizard's to shame.
Holy cats. Talk about throwing caution to the wind. What's the Sindarin word for "elope"? wow.
Can you tell that I'm shocked, daw??? I hope this works out for the two.
Oh wow.
Author's reply
I think 'shocked' is good! At least I guess it is. I don't usually write adult material but these are two adults who are bonding body and soul, so it seemed appropriate. In all truth, I've known for months that this was how these two would finally 'resolve' their problems, so I have to keep reminding myself that readers didn't know. The adars will now have to be told and I think that will indeed produce fireworks. But Eilian is right: what's done can't be undone. Thranduil is going to be mad as hell though.
dr_seuss_is_cool
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
hello
I think you did an excellent job on the scene with Eilian.
It was so well done, not many people can acheive that.
I hope that Solith will not go out and kill Eilian when he is told what has happened.
I'll worry about that when the time comes.
I like Tuilinn, i hope she sticks around for a time.
It made me laugh how when she said that Legolas' father must be proud of him, that he just told her that she needed a green ribbon, but...i guess he must have been spellbound.
I think you did awesomely in this chapter...can't wait to see what happens to Eilian and Celuwen.
thanks for writing!
Ciao.
Author's reply
Thank you, Dr. Seuss,
I was really worried about how this would turn out because I didn't want it to be cheap but I did want it to be physical. And I suspect that Celuwen and her mother will also be worried about the early death of the groom!
Legolas is in a sweetly romantic situation. He hasn't longed for Tuilinn over the course of years, so his contact with her is lighter and more tentative. I think she's like his mother, actually, who was dancing with an elfling when Thranduil met her.
Estel_Mi_Olor
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Wow Daw that was very well written. But that was so Eilian! Never waiting to see what he's doing is right. Oh my, that is going to be a problem. Neither Sólith nor Thranduil is going to like that, and I don't see Isiwen being very pleased that her daughter bonded with Eilian in a sort of spur of the moment decision. Congrats to Legolas again. This fic gets more and more interesting-please update! Thanks and keep writing!
Author's reply
Ithilden had a nice dignified wedding. I couldn't imagine Eilian going in for that, and Thranduil was way too optimistic to think it might happen that way. So it did seem to me that this kind of impromptu bonding would be of a piece with Eilian's other actions. We'll see how it goes now.
meckinock
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Wow, and all this time I thought your only hidden talent was for spectacular battle scenes. This chapter went off the Richter scale. Not only was it intensely moving and sensual, but you beautifully balanced the urgency - almost desperation - of Eilian's physical longing with the restraint and gentleness with which he touched Celuwen. Your descriptions of the...activity...carried a full payload of kinetic punch without losing the sense of dignity, love, trust, and devotion shared by these two individuals. You had me on the edge of my seat worrying that they'd get busted by Solith before they could actually complete the act, though. And as to how refined and mature Solith is going to be when he find out...well, I think we can all guess. And let's not even get into Thranduil. I can't wait.
Without letting Eilian off the hook for the indecent haste with which he pushed Celuwen into an irreversible decision while dodging her long-standing concerns about his career choices, I have to admit that purely on the issue of disapproving fathers, I'm on his side. Solith is a perfect case for that fond old saying -it's easier to ask forgiveness than permission. The old curmudgeon is just being an ass and it's about time somebody let him know it. Parental approval ought to be a formality at this stage in Eilian and Celuwen's lives, anyway. The pool of potential marriage candidates in Mirkwood society is finite and static - if neither Eilian nor Celuwen has found another mate after, what, a couple hundred years of this on-again, off-again relationship, I'd say the verdict is in. Of course, they're probably all wrong for each other, but that never stops anyone. Let the dish-throwing commence!
Author's reply
Meckinock, you can't imagine how good your comments made me feel. I've never written a sex scene before and this one was important to me, because it was about the bonding of two characters I've been working with for a long time. I wanted them to make love, but I also wanted it to be sensual, and I wanted it to be elven bonding. I'm not going to get another chance to write about this moment, so I am so glad you think it was well done.
The parents will deal with it as best they can, and I think Solith may actually have an easier time of it than Thranduil. Eilian did ask his permission, whereas Celuwen has only to apologize, as you say. But that 'indecent haste' may come back to haunt Eilian and Celuwen. Where will they live? What will they do? (to quote Celuwen)
Erendis
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Terribly satisfying chapter, Daw.
First, Legolas needed to relax after all the diplomatic/political turmoil and take his mind off from Thranduil's future reactions; of course, what better way to do so than spending time with a maiden? And sensitive one to boot. I'm glad that Legolas gets to have a little romance, plus I like Tuilinn.
Still, I wonder what'll happen when he's to go back home? Hmm, thos dark clouds may mean more than rain, methinks.
Now, on to the other settlement. You know, I've been waiting for the last couple of chapters for Eilian to do something rash, something Eilian-ish, but never did I think he'd do this nor that it'd turn out for the best. Oh, of course now they'll have to deal with both sets of parents (of whom I fear Thranduil will be the hardest) and other nasty things, but for now they deserved to be happy, to be together. I don't think they'll regret it; both Eilian and Celuwen are strong persons and whatever comes they'll face it and now they'll have each other.
You seem concerned, so I assure you that the love-making scene was tasteful and sweet and right.
Also I wonder (so many questions!!), will they keep it a secret? Will they reveal it right away?
In any case, an enjoyable and rewarding chapter. Probably the calm before the storms. ;)
Author's reply
Legolas is taking an occasion for joy, as his naneth would have said. How long it will last is a good question. And I think you are absolutely right that Thranduil will be the tough nut to crack here. Solith has just lost whatever battle he wanted to fight, unless he now wants to play politics in revenge.
The problem with keeping it secret is that Tolkien says that elves could tell from another elf's voice and eyes if he or she was married. They don't have a prayer of concealing this for a second. ;-)
naneth
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
I am stunned...but it was such an Eilian thing to do! You handled it all very nicely, by the way.
Author's reply
If I surprised you, that's good. I thought everyone would have seen as clearly as I did what was coming. But then, they couldn't see my notes and I could! I thought it was an Eilian-ish solution too. I'm glad you thought it was nicely done because I was nervous about it.
Ms. Whatsit
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
And just WHAT is Thranduil going to say about this?!?
Well, this is an Eilian-ish marriage like you said it would be! And Elf sex is always appreciated, especially spontaneous Elf sex and most especially canonical spontaneous Elf sex involving a son of Thranduil. Very nice indeed. And Eilian and Celuwen are so sweet.
And so is Legolas! I like how you wrote about their kiss and then switched to an hour later--it was somehow very funny, like a wink to the reader, but at the same time drew a nice veil over what happened.
And now I want to know what happens to the Brothers Thranduilion when they get home! Eilian will get yelled at, of course, but what about Legolas? Will both brothers endure the Wrath of Thranduil together, or will Legolas get to be the good boy? I'm betting on the latter, since he did a good job.
And why do I get the feeling that the settlement will indeed be flooded again and Legolas will get to do something heroic, possibly involving Tuilinn?
Author's reply
Oh wow, the fact that you saw this as canonical really makes me feel good. It was meant to be that, but also sensual and also loving. And also very Eilian-ish! Only he would think this was a good solution to his problem.
Legolas gets privacy, even if Eilian does not, but I guarantee you he behaved better. Thus adar may indeed be happier with him. But if Eilian gets home first, Thranduil is likely to be in a very ugly mood!
Jay of Lasgalen
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Oh, my. That was unexpected - but beautiful.
First things first. I liked the way Legolas was more worried about incurring his father's disapproval than what the consequenses may be, if the negotiations did not work. And I'm still worried about that river - I feel sure some dangerous floods are in store soon. The scene with Legolas and his maiden was lovely, and the first kiss very sweet.
But Eilian! He was suddenly so bold and decisive, knowing that Celuwen's father would never agree to their bonding. I didn't expect him to jump the gun though, as it were - and I still don't think either of their fathers are going to be too pleased about this!
Lovely chapter, Daw.
Author's reply
"Unexpected - but beautiful" is just right! I was worried that the love making would be either too restrained or crude because I've never written it before. And if it was a surprise, so much the better. It has always seemed to me that this was the way these two would wind up. And you are certainly right about the two fathers.
Ah yes, the river is rising. I'll write about that some more in the next chapter, I think.
sheraiah
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Wow. As happy as I am that they are finally bound, methinks that they are both in deep doo doo with their respective families. Iluvatar help them, but Solith and Thranduil are NOT going to be happy about this at all. I do love that impetuous middle child of the king's so, especially as he does have a veritable talent for ending up in the soup. Loved the bit with Legolas as well. I can't wait for the next chapter.
Author's reply
The funny thing is that from Eilian's point of view, this was the only logical course of action. Their parents had practically forced them to it. And while Solith will be difficult, Thranduil is the one I'd be worried about.
The next chapter will be a Legolas chapter, I think, so it may be awhile before we see how the newlyweds do.
Dragon-of-the-North
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
Alright... I cannot stop laughing just now. *g* Sorry... This is *not* meant as criticism... This was certainly well-handled and very romantic and all, but... a true Eilian solution to the problem. *still grinning* Why bother with a betrothal if you can marry straightaway, hm? But I think this will do wonders for the relationship between Solith and the king - two fathers in mild shock are certainly bound to become allies...? ;-)
I liked the first part of the chapter very well - sometimes it seems easier to talk to an almost-stranger indeed, if it is the right person... And I admire the young lady's ability to read Legolas (both that she knew exactly what was coming and that she detected how much the Shadow was weighing him down).
Great job once again... And now I must giggle at Eilian's problem-solving once more. ;-D
Author's reply
I have been planning this resolution the Eilian and Celuwen's romance for some time now. When it occurred to me, I laughed too because it did seem so very Eilian-ish. I suspect that neither father is going to take this well. Indeed, I *know* they're not. ;-)
Tuilinn seems to be very intuitive, and she and Legolas seem to get along easily. He's better behaved then Eilian is though. (Thank the Valar, says Thranduil)
Nilmandra
· 3 April 2004
· Chapter 7: Night Meetings
So, the rumors of this chapter were indeed true. :-) I am happy for Eilian and Celuwen, and their bonding was very sensual and sexy. Parents might be upset, but they are not elflings and their parents are at times the difficult ones. The love scene is very well done - not crass or mechanical, but focused on the depth of feeling between two people about to be bound into one.
And Legolas! Hmm.....an hour passed with Tuilinn in the forest? Tell us more! Legolas appears to be in love, or at least he is deeply attracted. I like Tuilinn. And we actually don't know anything about Legolas before the war of the ring, so you have free rein to write more. *hint, hint*
Author's reply
I'm glad you liked the bonding. It was a departure for me, to say the least. I couldn't tell if I was saying too much or too little, so I appreciated your feedback a great deal.
Legolas enjoyed himself, but I suspect he was much better behaved than big brother was. ;-)
Karri
· 1 April 2004
· Chapter 6: Making Trades
It nice to see Legolas holding his own as a prince of the realm. Good job! :-)
Author's reply
Thank you, Karri. Legolas is doing very well in a tough situation. I'm always interested in what consequences flow from being obligated by birth to serve the realm. But I'll have to see if Legolas can't have a little fun too.
Antigone Q
· 1 April 2004
· Chapter 6: Making Trades
Oh, good job, Legolas! Way to negotiate where you can! I'm going to be cross now if Thranduil isn't very proud of him. I don't know who would have done better - Thranduil himself might have lost his temper somewhere during the proceedings, and Legolas never did. And Legolas used the leverage he had to get some of what he wanted, at least.
Goodness, Anyr would drive nearly anyone to distraction! "Arda" will provide, indeed (!)...what a bunch of hooey. What he really means is "If Arda doesn't provide, then Thranduil will." It's a good thing Crydus had a little more sense.
Are we going to see Eilian and Celuwen next chapter? I hope so.
Author's reply
In all truth, I haven't decided yet how Thranduil will react. I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. I haven't written much about politics before so this is all new ground and at each step I wind up pausing and asking myself what people would really do, given all the complications. But I thought Legolas did well.
"Are we going to see Eilian and Celuwen next chapter?" Oh yeah. ;-)
caz - baz
· 1 April 2004
· Chapter 6: Making Trades
hahaha. i suppose there are down sides of being an elf other elves are so perceptive.
poor Eilian he really wants celuwen but she seems so far out of his reach at the moment unless he gave up his adventure seeking ways.
Those children sound scary don't think i'd like to meet them on a dark night and i also think i'd enjoy being Annael when he get's to tell Tinar the great news.
well least no orcs have attacked... yet.
how much longer do you think it's going to be?
well until next chapter.
Author's reply
Galivion is pretty perceptive about Legolas eyeing the maiden, but Legolas may not have been hiding it very well. He seemed dazed. In a good kind of way, of course.
You are taking much too much pleasure in how upset poor Tinar will be, Caz-baz!
I'm not sure how much longer the story will be--several more chapters anyway. I have to have a few more events in the settlements (that river is looking high!) and then get everyone home and take care of loose threads (like what happens to Tinar).
Thanks for the review.
Dot
· 1 April 2004
· Chapter 6: Making Trades
Those storm clouds do seem ominous. Although, Legolas appears to be more worried than the settlers. I suppose he knows he can’t very well just head off home should anything go wrong on this mission. And Anyr is a little too accepting of whatever nature throws at them for my peace of mind!
Tinar causes no end of trouble, does he?! For once, though, I can see why he might be riled up – even if his reaction was a bit unnecessary. In fairness, Legolas’ immediate assumption was exactly the same as Tinar’s.
Woah, Tuilinn certainly has a, ahem, way with Legolas. I’m glad he has a little bit of romance in his life and I’m going to remain neutral about her for a while I think but, yeah, you’ll have a lot of jealous readers if she gets much closer to Legolas…;)
You’ve really done a great job with Anyr. He seems to have just expected food and is completely bewildered as to why these warriors are still here, and especially as to why they tend to “fuss” so much. It’s interesting that it isn’t even a question to him that they would help the men and their children. Maybe that’s why he was surprised that Thranduil didn’t send all they had asked for, when they themselves give so willingly. Anyr seems to accept men, even their shortcomings such as feeling hunger and inability to scale trees, without judgement. He’d drive me nuts, though, if I had to deal with him…
I really like Crydus! He seems very genuine. It appears to be a real friendship he has with Anyr, which would account for his surprise that he hadn’t been told the exact truth of the situation. I had to laugh at him taking such a sensible view, as opposed to this elf talking vaguely of Arda providing.
I feel sorry for Galivion. He must be having palpitations by now. I mean, not only does he, more than anyone, know the exact situation regarding provisions for Thranduil’s people but he’s clearly starting to panic at the thought that Legolas might land them in trouble with Thranduil with a wrong word. I did cringe a bit when he mentioned the “pretty maiden”, though. He’s lucky Legolas didn’t take offence at this (whether true or not!). Still, I really do admire him for his honesty and desire to see Legolas succeed.
“He will not let us cut living trees, of course.” He smiled fondly at Anyr, who looked placidly back at him.” I love the way he looks on this as a ‘quirk’ of Anyr’s but is willing to humour him…
“I am sure Anyr has conferred with him about timber rights and trade tariffs.” Well done, Legolas! What a great way of introducing the matter without actually interrogating or openly embarrassing Anyr.
“You are Thranduil’s son.” Hmm, certainly as, um, persuasive anyway. Crydus has probably just realised that he isn’t getting anything for nothing. But how could he know Thranduil so well? He must have dealt with him before. Or maybe he’s just heard things from his elf pals…
I have to say, I thought Legolas did a very good job. Isn’t he great for noting details and making use of them? And he listens to and respects those around him, such as Annael and Galivion. He might have to wait around a while to ensure that things are as they should be but really a lot of the matters concerning trading need to be taken to the king. It’s tricky, though – the settlers won’t like it if the king’s son goes home, tells his father what is happening and Thranduil stops the trading or introduces conditions that will undermine the obvious friendship between these men and elves. I honestly never thought I could be fascinated by the intricacies of diplomacy but I’m totally engrossed!!
Author's reply
I'm planning some romantic moments for the next chapter for both brothers, so we'll see if the Tuilinn hatred rises then.
Anyr is my attempt at a 'hippy' elf -- not possessive but not particularly self supporting either. Arda better provide for him because he's not good at doing it for himself! Crydus probably goes home and rolls his eyes even though he is genuinely fond of the goof. I thought Crydus had probably heard talk of Thranduil, who trades with the Lake-men, and that would be how he knows that the king would expect some sort of concession.
Galivion is a good advisor, I think. At least, I mean him to be. He offers his advice but then if his listener doesn't take it, he helps the listener do what he wants to do only do it better.
I'm hoping I manage to unravel all that diplomatic stuff when they get home. And I will need to see that Tinar meets his fate, whatever I decide that will be. And I have other things going on too. But Nilmandra keeps me on the straight and narrow at the end of a story when I always tend to rush.
I'm glad you like this.
The Karenator
· 31 March 2004
· Chapter 6: Making Trades
Legolas sure was between a rock and a hard place. Trying to balance what he thought the king would want him to do and helping out people who were obviously in dire straits, was enough to give 'me' a headache. And then he had Galivion reminding him that he could not 'speak for Thranduil'. It's kind of hard to not be seen in that way when you're the king's representative. What a balancing act! Other than his one minor slip up, he did an excellent job of offering some very valid options for solving the problems. I agree with the Ranger(and Legolas); battling orcs is less stressful.
I think the maiden finds our good Thranduilion kind of cute. He certainly seems to still be eyeing her. Compensation for diplomacy, eh? That Galivion is still practicing his wily ways of diplomcy.
Very good chapter, daw. I really enjoyed it. I hope the next one won't be too long in coming our way. Actually, I'm so proud that I got this chapter reviewed before you slipped another one in. :>) Karen
Author's reply
Legolas is in a tough spot, you're right. There's not a good solution, so he just has to muddle through as best he can. *I* sure wouldn't want to do it either.
Of course the maiden thinks he's cute! I think he's cute, you think he's cute, all Eru's children think he's cute. Oh wait, that's a song.
I'm working on the next chapter and plan to have it done sometime this weekend, although part of it looks tricky to me. We'll see.
Estel_Mi_Olor
· 31 March 2004
· Chapter 6: Making Trades
Wow...diplomacy is so much more than you give it credit for. Legolas is doing very well, although the situation is very precarious. I never thought we'd meet a Man with more sense than an Elf. That should squash all stereotypes. You wrote the situation very well, with all the complications, etc, that arose. I wonder, have you seen the movie "Thirteen Days" about the Cuban Missile Crisis? If you have not, I reccommend it, because it is a tense drama all about diplomacy and political situations, sort of which Legolas is in now. Galivion is so nice, especially letting Legolas...be? with the maiden. But he is so right in saying that Thranduil will be displeased with whatever happens...reminds me of my mother... Keep writing!
Author's reply
I think Anyr is a pretty maddening elf, so maybe he's an exception in being dumber than the man. I haven't seen "Thirteen Days," but it sounds intriguing. And I think that Galivion is a pretty good advisor, even if he didn't want Legolas to give food to the men. He did his best and his opinion was an honest one. Sorry about your mother!! Maybe she and Thranduil can get together and exchange notes about their kids.
erunyauve
· 31 March 2004
· Chapter 6: Making Trades
Well, I thought of the source of food when the children were eating. It's a good thing the man is at little more sensible than Anyr. And it certainly doesn't hurt either of them that a maiden has caught the eye of the King's son. Legolas had better hope that Tinar doesn't notice, though the latter is so self-centered that he probably wouldn't notice unless he had designs on the maiden himself.
Author's reply
Legolas is a little distracted by the maiden. Writing about him makes a funny contrast to writing about Eilian, who is at home with maidens smiling at him. Legolas is a more steady sort. The next chapter will be about the romances of both brothers.