The Karenator
· 20 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
daw,
As always I hate to see one of your stories come to an end. But what a good ending! Legolas and Ithilden seems a little wiser after their ordeal, and Thranduil even seems to have listened to what Ithilden had to say about what he learned about dealing with his youngest brother. You have said before that you see Thranduil as seeing his role as making the sons toe the line, and this certainly seems the case. He's a very good father, but he does have a tendency to approach his fathering much like he does running a kingdom. Neither role is devoid of love and compassion, but orders are to be obeyed without question! I think that tends to be the male approach to most things.:>) Still, most of us understand better when we see the reasoning behind the orders. Legolas is an intelligent child, but he's still a child. Being both mother and father for his last child has been a difficult job, but I think the king has done quite well overall. He's learned as he gone along and makes adjustments as he sees the need. Every child is different, and I think Thranduil is wise enough to realize this.
Now, as for intelligence... For a smart guy, Ithilden sure is dumb. Bless his heart. That elleth sure does reduce him to an adolescent. His confidence flies right out the window. Even poor Penntalion probably wonders what is going on with his self-confident commander.
I really enjoyed the scene between Thranduil and Siondil. A nice little father to father chat. I can only imagine why Siondil thought he had been summoned. He was probably trying to decide if he or Annael had done something. I love the idea of posting the warrior to look over the little ones. As a mother, I can certainly understand. I would post guards with both my sons if I could get away with it. Not just because I fear someone else harming them, but to be sure they don't do something so stupid that the consequences are beyond repair. I see signs of intelligent life in my oldest, but the youngest is now entering the grumpy know-it-all stage. Maybe, it's me that needs a guard to keep me from climbing up on a step stool and strangling my over 6 foot 'baby'. :>) I can't imagine raising them without their father. I really sympathize with single parents. They have a tough job. Thranduil has done well with Legolas despite the little guy's ability to wander off.
Very good, daw. I loved getting to know Ithilden a little better. He's really one of the good guys...even though he still has the testosterone brain damage of his gender. I read where you're considereing the Five Armies for your next story. Sounds great. I'd love a little action and to see what all three of the Thranduilions were up to during that time. Besides, I'm still in awe that you can write three or four stories in the time it takes me to write one! But that's one of the many things I like about your stories. I love quick updates.
Thanks for such a delightful read. Karen
Author's reply
You are so right about Thranduil learning as he went along being an only parent! I can't even imagine how hard a task that must be for him. I think that Legolas is lucky that he's not also an only child. His brothers love him in a different way than his father does. It's not better. It's just different. And that gives him space to learn in. Also, as his family's baby, I think he's unconsciously confident that he'll be loved no matter what he does.
Now Ithilden is another story. Here's a guy who's deeply responsible. I suspect he feels he has to earn love. He needs Alfirin in a big way.
I think adolescence is nature's way of enabling parents to let go! If they stayed sweet forever, we'd never be able to send them out on their own. As it is, we sometimes want to kick them out of the nest -- kick them hard!
vic
· 20 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Hi Daw,
I am always so upset when you finish a story, but at the same time, I cannot wait for the next one! This was yet another great chapter, filled with love that each family member has for one another. I'm very glad to hear that Ithilden recovered from his little encounter with spiders, while Alfirin, I'm sure, kept a keen eye on the convalescing patient! It will be interesting to note just how the two eventually get together, so perhaps there is another little tale on the way? Or are we going to see adult Legolas back for his stint as a Lieutenant? It doesn't really matter, as anything written by you will be very welcome!
I loved the last part, where Legolas promised his Adar that he’d only go into the woods with an adult elf. What a little imp, indeed. I seem to recall a number of adventures that he goes on, much to the angst of his Ada. Quite touching also were the last few sentences "he would never leave"... I cannot imagine just how hard it might be for our little Wood Elf to be torn away from his home; I'm hoping that Nice, and Clever Daw will make it better, or at least write another story (hint, hint) :-D
Anyways, it was brilliant a story and I thank you for sharing it with us!
Vic
Author's reply
I'm always upset when I finish a story too. It depresses me!
I have it in mind to do Bilbo and the Dwarves/the White Council/the Battle of the Five Armies next, but I also want to write those other stories about the year Eilian stayed home and Legolas first acted as a lieutenant and about Ithilden and Alfirin courting too. So many plots! So little time!
Every time I think of how happy Legolas is in the woods, it makes me sad because I think about the sea longing. Galadriel says he'll never be contented beneath the trees again after that. In the movie, he looked like he lost nothing in the war, but that is SO not true.
White Wolf
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
My mother is in the hospital, so I haven't had as much time to read as usual, and I fell behind in this story, which I enjoyed so much.
It was good to see Legolas and Ithilden together, even though things didn't go quite as either of them planned. I think Legolas learned a good lesson, although I know from other stories of when he's older, he still doesn't mind all the time.
I liked Ithilden's dreams of Alfirin kissing him and the fact that Legolas got to sleep in the flet with Annael and Turgon.
Author's reply
I hope your mother is better. RL can be tough sometimes.
Legolas is on his best behavior right now, but I'm not sure how long that will last. He's awfully curious, and at some point, he does need to grow up and declare his independence. Thranduil is a good father, but he has his hands full.
Hisie Lome
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Hey Daw, I have just check Stories of Arda and All but 2 of my reviews have disappeared! I have no idea what has happened. I really hope the Valar are not angry with me for some reason.
Just wanted you to know that I have not changed my mind....I look forward to more of your work!
Minna Sedh, Hisie Lome
Author's reply
Thank you, Hisie Lome. I still have your reviews saved. :-)
This story was fun to write. I get bored when I'm not writing one, so I suppose I'll start another one soon, although today I have to work. Sigh.
Tapetum Lucidum
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Now that is a dream! Much better than being chased through the forest by giant spiders. I think anyone is better off just giving in to Thranduil, he is quite accustomed to getting his way. I bet the only one who ever beats him is Legolas. The brothers' conversation was very sweet. Apparently Legolas is quite the nursemaide - he is fascinated by vomit. I am very glad they could clear the air between them. I think their bond is stronger for the trip.
Not every kid responds well to physical discipline. I am going to send you an e-mail on a good way to calm your kids down next time they are over active. I don't think Thranduil has tried it. Only non-parents think they know how to handle kids all of the time. Ithilden is wise to admit Thranduil is much more skilled. Apparently elves are just as poor patients as men. You would think they had a little patience.
I would think Eilian is an amusing correspondent. He would have to be quite clever to make his adventures in the south anything less than terrifying. Kids are very entertaining from a distance. Penntalion's remark to Ithilden and the prince's reaction had me LOL. It is amazing how different an outside perspective can be. You left me wishing Ithilden would make a move on Alfirin. That's 2 stories where I was actually wishing for romance. You must be the master!
Thranduil's plan to protect his son while letting him have a wonderful evening was great! I would not think Siondel would object to having a warrior look out for his son for an evening. I don't think I would ever turn down an extra pair of eyes. The boys had a wonderful evening under the stars together. Your last little scene left me all choked up. Excellent wrap up!
Super job as usual!
Author's reply
Legolas is in a good state of mind right now. He's sorry for what he did and tells Ithilden that. He wants to care for him and Thranduil, bless him, sees all that as making any other penalty unnecessary. They have undoubtedly had a little talk (or several). I wouldn't lay any bets that this good state will continue indefinitely, but his family should enjoy it while it lasts and remember it when things go bad again.
Maybe Alfirin will have to make a move on Ithilden. I'm thinking.
Loved your email!! Sent you a picture of Eilian in return.
sofia
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Oh! how a sweet ending. Very exciting story. I cant believe its over so soon. I hope you dont keep us waiting too long for another story!
-sofia
Author's reply
This story went fast. I wrote it quickly and really enjoyed doing it. I'll probably start on another one soon. I am lost when I don't have a story going. I'm glad you liked the ending, Sofia.
Dot
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Darnit, it’s finished already. Such a lovely ending, though.
So, Thranduil ‘convinced’ the healer to allow Ithilden home. How could he interfere with a burgeoning love affair like that?! Oh well, at least Ithilden seems to be having pleasant dreams.
It seems as though Thranduil and Legolas had a little talk. I get the impression that Thranduil realises that Legolas knows what he did wrong and is satisfied as long as Legolas apologises to Ithilden. “Adar says I can learn a lot from you, and he is right.” That’s lovely! And Adar is right. Although, maybe not when it comes to talking to maidens…;) Ithilden also seems to see things a little more clearly. I agree with him that Legolas behaves better when he understands the reasoning behind instruction. I’m glad he praised Legolas because his baby brother probably didn’t feel very brave at all.
“Ithilden had the eerie feeling that his father knew exactly what he was planning.” Of course he does! The healer was right that Ithilden wouldn’t admit to his pain at home and there’s *no way* Thranduil will let anyone in to ‘brief’ Ithilden. Thranduil’s sons really seem to object to his fussing as soon as they’re on the mend but I’d say they’d easily be just as bad if ever Thranduil were injured.
I was surprised Ithilden told Thranduil about spanking Legolas. Obviously Legolas wouldn’t say anything but I didn’t think either of them really would. I’m glad Thranduil didn’t have several fits about it, but then he’s probably come close to smacking a bottom or two himself with all of his sons and undoubtedly sees Ithilden’s guilt and regret.
“I usually found that with you and Eilian fear of me was enough.” LOL! How very…self-aware of him.
It must have startled Thranduil a bit when Ithilden gave him the same advice that Lorellin always did. I actually felt quite sorry for him. It’s almost as though everyone else can see what he should be doing but he still hasn’t got it right. I just wanted to hug him and tell him that he’s a great father! Anyway, Ithilden has learned a lot of lessons that will surely stand to him when he has a son of his own.
Ithilden escaped! If he needs to use a tree to steady himself just on the walk to his office it really doesn’t sound like he should be there. No doubt his father will frown a lot and make him nap before dinner.
I had to laugh at Eilian’s letter – though I doubt it would have stopped Ithilden going. Eilian will be in for a shock if he ever finds out what happened.
I’m glad Ithilden and Penntalion are on better terms again. Poor Penntalion didn’t really seem to have recovered from Ithilden snapping at him! I was delighted that he told Ithilden that Legolas is “self-disciplined for his age”. It reminds Ithilden that he’s still young but is also a huge compliment. Plus, I think Ithilden needed to see that Legolas is a totally different person when it comes to his training.
Alfirin’s appearance is a nice surprise for Ithilden! Maybe he should indeed have vomited in front of her before. He certainly seems to have started off a bit braver here anyway. There’s something so sweet about seeing him all shy and awkward. It’s such a pity he believes that Alfirin likes Penntalion. Self-doubt does not sit well with Ithilden. If he had any sense he’d use a couple of spies and find out instead of just wondering.
There was something really amusing about that scene between Thranduil and Siondel. I think it was the idea of Thranduil thinking he was chatting to the father of his son’s friend and Siondel clearly too wary to be comfortable. Who knows why he thought he was ‘invited’ there. “If a warrior were to choose to camp in this copse, do you think the elflings would be aware of his presence?” Nice one, Thranduil. What a clever elf. I always thought he might do that to Legolas at some stage. It’s such a perfect solution to easing Thranduil’s own fears, even though the elflings in question might not quite appreciate it. Turgon wouldn’t anyway. It sounds too as though Siondel has been staying awake incase they were in trouble – or go looking for it – so it’s nice to think Thranduil can put Annael’s parents’ minds at rest too.
Isn’t it such a pity that for a while Legolas’ love of the woods was marred? Yes, he learned his lesson about not venturing into the woods at night without an adult but it’s quite sad that it’s a lesson that needs to be taught. And he still hasn’t killed a deer… But Turgon seems impressed enough that he shot a spider. It’s such a lovely image of the three friends singing softly to the night and then Annael’s mother answering with a lullaby of her own. It’s just such a wood-elfy picture and so comforting, which is exactly what Legolas needs to help him feel safe again. *sigh* I loved this story. Ithilden is definitely one of my favourites so I really appreciated this chance to spend some more time than usual with him. I think we learned a little more about Ada and baby brother too! Where do you suppose you’ll take us next? I was thinking the other day that I’m looking forward to a Five Armies story, largely because I’d love to see the Elvenking get a bit of action! But then, elflings can be fun too…:)
Author's reply
Someone else mentioned how amusing it would be to see Thranduil be the injured one! I thought it was a funny idea. Here's what I picture happened when Ithilden crawled into his office. His aide jumped in alarm and said he hadn't been expecting Ithilden. Ithilden makes it in triumph to the door of his own office and then turns around and tells the aide not to even THINK of sending a message to the palace saying he's there, and it's obvious that that's exactly what the aide was getting ready to do. But Thranduil notices he's gone and comes after him--I think himself, but maybe he sends the healer. Ah, I love spinning stories.
Thranduil is such a good ada. He was happy to have Legolas care for Ithilden and apologize and that's all it took. Legolas is pretty subdued at the moment anyway. But he did get to sleep on a flet: a small adventure but within the sound of Annael's nana's voice. That's far enough for him right now. There will be time for danger and daring, but not yet.
I'm still thinking about the Five Armies. It would be a nicely complicated story that could involve all three brothers and Thranduil.
esamen
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
He would live in the woods forever, he thought dreamily. He would never leave. The path of dreams came up to meet him and he ran along it with his arms spread wide in joy.
What a beautiful ending. The vision of the boys singing in the trees is just magical. This is a great story, full of action and tenderness and real feeling. I loved it! Thank you!
Have you ever thought of writing about Legolas post-Quest, for instance when he comes home again? I think that you could come up with some fantastic scenes!
Author's reply
Glad you liked it, Esamen.
I have thought about writing a post-Quest story, but frankly, I think they're hard to do well. For me, a lot of the interest in these pre-Quest stories comes from the fact that we know the end to which they are heading. So everything building to that end seems to assume significance from it. But after the defeat of Sauron, the future becomes more open for these characters. We know some stuff about them, but what we know seems scattered and ordinary compared to their role during the Ring War. At least that's the way it feels to me today!
Jay of Lasgalen
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Like you, I don't like to see 'the end' on a story - either my own or anyone else's - but I hope you have another planned soon?
This was great - but I confess I liked the previous chapter better, because of the angst - but I love all the loose ends tied up neatly. Best of all is Legolas finally being allowed to sleep on the flet; I'm so glad Thranduil found a compromise without *seeming* over protective!
It reminds me of the time my own children wanted to sleep out in the garden in their tent for the first time - a quiet back garden, away from roads etc. I persuaded our dog to stay with them, gave them one of the house phones, and left the back door unlocked 'just in case'. My son now camps alone in the middle of Dartmoor (the only sizable expanse of wilderness in south west England) and I still worry. I know just how Thranduil feels!
Jay
Author's reply
The angst was fun to write, I have to admit.
I liked your story of your kids sleeping in the back yard. And you didn't even have the possibility of giant spider!
Bodkin
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Start another story right away?
Well, if you must.
Bodkin
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
'I found that with you and Eilian fear of me was enough.' Oh yes, Thranduil - no need to bring the Valar into it! Most perceptive of him. (Only problem with this as a Legolas-controlling technique is the lack of naneth to act as counterweight.)
Lovely end to the story - (start another one straight away). Ithilden and Alfirin have moved on an inch or two. Legolas is happy again for a while. Good stuff. (Start another one straight away.) Siondel and Elowen are happy to have a warrior guarding the elflings - they are excellent parents. Can you just imagine Eilian as a parent at this point? (Start another one straight away.)
Did Thranduil ever learn about Legolas shooting the spider?
By the way - work is a greatly over-rated activity. You would be much better starting another story or six right away.
Author's reply
It's funny, but I suspect that the fact that Thranduil has been both mother and father to Legolas means that the kid is less afraid of him. I'll bet he could be a little more remote with the older two. He loves them, but he saw his role as making them toe the line. But with Legolas, he can't do only that (and sometimes he can't even do just that!).
LOL. Maybe I'll start another story right away. Do you think that would be all right?
Duchess
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Awww, Legolas is sooooo sweet in this part. I'm quite hard pressed to reconcile him with the impudent little rascal who got Ithilden and himself into so much trouble earlier on. lol
Ithilden DOES need to loosen up quite a bit, doesn't he? My my my, what a silly Elf he is! *chuckling*
As always, I'm enjoying this story immensely so do please continue as soon as you can? *vbg*
Author's reply
Legolas is a little subdued right now. He was genuinely scared. When he gets his confidence back a little, he'll be testing the limits again. He has to in order to grow up.
Ithilden is just dense!
tigerlily713
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Wonderful story! Beautifully done! I cannot wait for your next gift to us! Lily
Author's reply
Thank you, Lily. This story was fun to write, and I got to know Ithilden a little better.
Kristy
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Oh daw! That was the perfect ending!
Along with the Spring Awakenings sequel, I want to request a "how Ithilden got over his stupidity and got together with Alfirin story" We've seen how the impulsive, irresponsible Eilian came to his bonding. I think it would be a cool contrast to see how the proper, responsible Ithilden comes to his bonding. Kind of like a prequel to Joinings.
Whatever you decide to do next, I know I'll enjoy it as much as I enjoyed this one.
Author's reply
Thank you, Kristy. That sounds like a fun story! I'll put it on the list.
I'm always sorry to see stories end, so I'm looking forward to the next one too.
Jebb
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Triple aah! this was a lovely ending for almost everyone although Ithilden was being a little dense I thought, males!!
And sneaking out to go to his office not a good example to set for Legolas although duty is already firmly entrenched in all the sons of Thranduil
Ada allowing the sleep over with suitable provisos what an elf I become more and more enamoured of this monarch
Even Elilian got in there good advice I expect Ithilden wishes he had gotten it before the camping trip!
Hope to see a new story very soon as I am already getting withdrawal symptoms
thank you for shating your gifts with us
Author's reply
Ithilden was doing so well talking to Alfirin and then he just lost his head. Stupid male. Stubborn too. Off to office and happy that his warriors salute.
Thranduil tries to let Legolas go, but it's hard, I think. They live in a very dangerous world, as they all just learned all over again.
Thank you for your kind words, Jebb.
caz - baz
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
that's sweet!
i'm glad that i already know it's a happy ending for Ithilden and Alfirin. well i've got to go ride my horse now, i'm eagerly awaiting your next story. caz
Author's reply
Have fun, Caz. There'll be another story along one of these days. See you then.
French Pony
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Props to Thranduil for recognizing that now is not the moment for a formal punishment. Taking care of Ithilden (and having the chance to be there when he wakes up) is plenty penance for someone who was nearly eaten by spiders. And also, props to Thranduil for letting Legolas have a sleepover with his friends, in the safety of the backyard of the responsible friend's responsible parents. Duh! It seemed kind of weird to have Thranduil and Siondel talking together about their kids, kind of like Thranduil doesn't get together with other parents very often. Probably he should. Especially other single parents. There's got to be more than just him in the Woodland Realm. On the other hand, Siondel is Eilian's age, right? Must be kind of weird to be talking parent to parent with one of your kid's friends.
As for Legolas, he seems to have learned (at least temporarily) all the lessons everyone intended for him to learn. And he didn't get his deer, but he got a spider! How cool is that? It certainly impressed his friends, which seems to be what he was after in the first place, so good for him.
Ithilden, on the other hand, has completely missed several important points. One of which is that you don't treat your kid brother like one of your warriors. Legolas will be a warrior and under Ithilden's command, but he is not there yet, and he needs to be treated as a kid brother now. And even after this adventure, old Ithilden is still talking about how well he follows orders. Penntalion gets it when he says "He is unbelievably self-disciplined for his age.” It's the "for his age" bit that shows it, but it zooms over Ithilden's hard Elvish head. Not good. Bad big brother. Must go back to Big Sibling Training under me and Boromir. And he's still a rigid control freak. Going with the flow would probably have made this camping trip go a lot easier, but no, Ithilden's just as uptight as ever. Alfirin will have her work cut out for her.
I found it interesting that, when Ithilden and Thranduil were discussing the spanking, they discussed it as if spanking was among the normal types of elfling discipline. I had always thought that spanking was a completely foreign idea for Elves, but I guess the Wood Elves occasionally take a swipe at the real naughty ones.
Author's reply
I figured Thranduil would have talked to Legolas and been happy if Legolas lived with some of the consequences of his actions. He takes care of Ithilden and he says he's sorry, and that's enough. He even WANTS to do those things. Ada should be pleased. As for spanking, in LACE, Tolkien says that Elven children needed little discipline, but I think that LACE primarily addresses the Noldor, possibly in ideal conditions, such as Valinor. The Elves in ME do not all marry early, for instance (although Siondel did because, you're right, he's Eilian's age). And I think the Wood-elves were less disciplined in general than other Elves--more dangerous and less wise, says Tolkien. So I would guess they occasionally swatted a kid.
Ithilden is learning, but it's slowly I'm afraid.
Wantanelf
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
So if Legolas hadn't been such a little brat we never would have had this tender scene with Ithilden and Alfirin in the infirmary (wretching and all). So they really have Legolas to thank for helping them get together! I really love your stuff and hope you write more about Legolas and his family. I was bummed when I saw this one had ended. I don't know what I'll do without a daw story to read!
Author's reply
That's one way to look at it, Wantanelf! Ithilden should be grateful to the little brat! Poor Ithilden. He's so dense.
I'm glad you enjoyed this story. I'm thinking of another one. I'm also thinking about work I should do. Sigh.
websterans
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Oh, yes. Just perfect. I adored this story.
Author's reply
Thank you, websterans. Legolas is happy to be on the flet lulled to sleep by Annael's nana, venturing out to independence but with safety close by.
Ms. Whatsit
· 19 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
This was an amazing chapter.
Things I especially liked:
-Ithilden thanking Legolas for saving his life and hearing that Legolas was self-disciplined from Penntalion. (Also, Ithilden being pleasant to Penntalion after snapping at him).
-Ithilden and Alfirin. I laughed out loud when I read the line about "Perhaps he should have vomited before her earlier." That's right, boys: when you find the girl you like, throw up, so you'll never have inhibitions around her again.
-Thranduil. *Love* him, as always--not favoring corporal punishment for Legolas (though being an older sister I can *certainly* relate to the urge to slap a wayward younger sib, especially if said sib is between the ages of 11 and 15), talking to Siondel and letting Legolas have his fun in the flet, listening to Ithilden giving him Lorellin's old advice...
And the letter from Eilian, of course. He's probably my favorite OC in LotR fanfic. Would you consider writing a sort of sequel to "Spring Awakenings" at some point about Legolas at the southern patrol and Eilian and Celuwen at home, at some point? Or, you know, anything with Eilian in it. (Though I keep getting scared you'll kill him, but you seem to like him too much, too!)
And Turgon's impressed by the spider-killing. Of course he is. *sigh* He makes me sad.
Author's reply
Thank you, Ms. Whatsit. I'm particularly thinking that Ithilden's son, Sinnarn, should be grateful that Legolas broke Ithilden in a little. Otherwise, he'd have been a pretty difficult adar, I think.
And I very much hope to write a sequel to "Spring Awakenings" about that year that Eilian stayed home, and he and Tinar working in Ithilden's office, and Legolas was in the south. There could be some fun stuff there. I don't think I'll do it next though. I'm still thinking about the Battle of the Five Armies next.
sol III
· 18 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Another wonderful story, Daw. I hate to see it end for two entirely
separate reasons, but both selfish in origin. I hate to see this tale
finished, because I want to linger with that family just a little longer.
The second is that I'm always afraid this is the last tale of this series,
and we'll not see more from you. Selfish in the extreme, but truth all
the same.
You've created a wonderful family here, with honest reactions, much love and realistic disagreements. You've especially captured Legolas at "that age" so well. They're such contradictions at that age -- half daredevil yet still about half very little boy, moody, insolant, and still in need of protection from the big bad world and scary things even while chanting the "I'm not a kid" mantra
My sisters, much older than I and born 1 year apart, have produced 7 boys between them, so I've seen this age, though not as intensely as a parent.
I witnessed a conversation between them that still makes me laugh.
Sister 1: What's wrong with you? You look gloomy.
Sister 2: You remember that morning when you woke up and realized you
didn't like your kid any more?
Sister 1: Vividly.
Sister 2: Well, it happened again.
Sister 1: Randy?
Sister 2: Yeah. I love him dearly, but I really don't like him much
right now.
Sister 1: Of course you don't. He's almost 12! In fact, he's late. He
should have been evil 6 months ago. Consider
yourself fortunate.
It would seem that Ithilden entered into the 'don't like 'em anymore' zone there for a while. I'm glad they managed to come out of it intact and still speaking to each other. Everyone seems to have learned a great deal. Let's hope the lessons stay with them, and that there's enough love and support in the family to get through That Stage with an elfling in the family.
I do love this series, and I do hope there is more to be shared. As always I will be doing the happy dance whenever anything bearing your name should show up in the mailbox :)
Thanks again for sharing.
p.s. I'm with Legolas -- I can't stand watching anybody sick up either!
Author's reply
Your sisters have my sympathy. Not only was there a day when I realized I didn't like my son a lot, but there was also a day when I realized he didn't like me! Legolas does better than that most of the time. He's really a good kid, despite how much he drove Ithilden up the wall.
I am planning to write more. I have a long list of story ideas. But I was just sitting here this morning looking at something I should write for work too. Sigh. If I do that, it will suck up my creative energy for a while. I'm not sure I can stand being away from Thranduil and his sons for that long.
Anonymous
· 18 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Another great story, Daw. What do you teach, by the way? Also, I read in one of the reviews you are thinking about doing the Battle of the Five Armies next--you have my vote for that. I'm dying to see your thoughts on it. I love your backstory for these characters.
Author's reply
I am a professor of rhetoric and professional communication -- whatever that is. :-) Actually, I teach report writing, editing, research methods, stuff like that, having to do with writing in the workplace. In particular,I work with engineers.
The fun thing about the Battle of the Five Armies is that you have the dwarves and Bilbo, and you have the White Council meeting and deciding to throw Sauron out of Dol Guldur and then doing it, and you have the battle, all within a three to four month span. So there's lots happening and I can send the Brothers Thranduilion everywhere.
LOTRFaith
· 18 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
(sigh) I am happy that all ended well;-) I was slightly startled by the kiss but grinned as soon as I realized that Ithilden was dreaming... :-) I am glad to know that Alfrin does marry Ithilden, but the conflict right now is driving me crazy...
I am glad to read that Thranduil let Legolas sleep with Turgon and Annael.. With a guard of course.... lol... I thought that was cute. I laughed when Legolas told Turgon no flat out... Too bad he didn't get more answers like that otherwise he might still be alive:-S But anyway... Excellent story and I look foward to more!~
Namaarie~
Author's reply
Thank you, Faith. Nilmandra says Ithilden is a dork, and he kind of is. He was doing so well, talking like a charming guy, and then he just fell apart.
Thranduil has just had a big enough scare over his sons that he has no intention of taking a chance with the little one. So a guard gets to sleep out when the elflings do! I want Annael's nana to sing me to sleep.
Nilmandra
· 18 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
Oh, Ithilden is such a dork - a gorgeous and comely dork, but he needs to pursue the maiden if he hopes to win her!
I like that Ithilden received a good lesson in parenting and Legolas a good lesson in discipline. Both were hard earned and will not likely be forgotten. A good story.
And why is that I know you will finish two more before I finish mine?
Author's reply
Ithilden has been struck down. He's been poleaxed and he can't be expected to act sensibly.
naneth
· 18 May 2004
· Chapter 8: The Path Home
That was a beautiful ending to an exciting and wonderful story. Your word picture of the elflings enjoying the night makes me want to head outdoors and sit in my porch swing long enough to feel the peace that your description evoked. The imagery I find in your stories is one of the things I love the most about your stories. You always transport me right into the locations and action of your stories. Great job as always!
Author's reply
You need Annael's nana to sing for you too, naneth. She would lull you right into a nice relaxing sleep so you could run along the dream path with Legolas. Not a bad idea! I'm feeling kind of sleepy myself.