Paths Taken by daw the minstrel
Justafan · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
Legolas and Ithilden are perfectly lovely here! I love Thranduil's obvious worry for their safety. I can't -wait- to see what kind of trouble Legolas can stir up while on this trip!
Author's reply
Are you wishing troubles on poor Ithilden, Justafan? LOL He would not like that! Legolas is going to be a good little elfling, yesirree.
nessie · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
Yay! I loved this chapter! Ithilden's trying to be fun and nice, but Legolas is already slightly annoyed with him! Aww! But Ithilden is right about that hunting at night, it's way too dangerous. There could be orcs and spiders about... But anyhoo, great job on the chapter and update asap! ~nessie~
Author's reply
As you say, Ithilden is right, but I'm not sure that will do him much good with Legolas. Poor older brother!
The Karenator · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
I'm still laughing that Ithilden thinks that managing an elfling will be as easy as commanding warriors! I loved Adar's reaction to his oblivious oldest son, too. I imagine that Ithilden is going to find out that guiding a child is much like trying to steer a grocery cart with one bad wheel. As a matter of fact, Legolas has already used the line that is so often a part of any adolescent's vocabulary: "I will do it in a minute." I love it that Adar is going to check to be certain Legolas is really in bed where he is supposed to be. Adar learns fast! Ithilden's day has been pretty good. The swords look good. That's a relief for him, I'm sure. The spider anti-venom is ready...and he has his supply--which I suspect he may need--and he's reconnecting with his Wood-elf side. Things are looking bright and peaceful. Now, why do I think this is a bit of a false security? I also really enjoyed the part about the guards, too. Ithilden and Thranduil nearly exchanged places for a moment over the king's constant guards. Thranduil sounded like one of his sons when he complained that Ithilden would not let him out without guards, but Ithlden was taking off without any. A dose of your own medicine? Discuss it, indeed. Ithilden is as hardheaded as his adar. Such a fun chapter, daw. I love the peek into the family dynamics: the adar who reluctantly allows his sons off on their own, an energetic elfling, and an older brother who is sure to be a harassed older sibling very quickly. I'm looking forward to the next chapter. Karen
Author's reply
Ithilden is about as clueless about kid obedience as he is about courting Alfirin. Your comparison to a broken shopping cart is great! You have to keep jerking it back in line. And you are also a good reader because you recognize plot setup when you see it! Thranduil and Ithilden are very much alike, which puts them in harmony most of the time, but makes it really interesting when they disagree.
Tapetum Lucidum · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
I can only imagine Legolas' joy at being able to play with his friends after a month of punishment. It is like the feeling you get at the beginning of summer when school has let out for the year. Nothing can spoil it. Not telling Thranduil about the ill-fated frame is an excellent idea. Turgon's sniping of Legolas' plans is very typical for that age. I don't know why but the kids love to torture one another when they turn about 12. They suddenly become derisive about anything their friends do. You captured that well. I was glad Annael remained supportive. I can appreciate Ithilden's glee over the success of the swords. It is hard when your father is always right, especially if he is the king. Maybe those dwarves aren't so stupid after all... The arguement over the guards was very amusing. Why do I think Beliond or someone is lurking near that little campsite. I think Ithliden will need a little reminder that Legolas is not a warrior, he is a kid. I imagine that he will realize that before too long. Four packets of antivenom? Now who is the nervous hen? Legolas' excitement over the trip and his enthusiasm for the trip was tangible - good job. Ithilden is rather bossy. He would probably have more success asking Legolas to do things nicely instead of ordering him around like a warrior. If he expects immediate obedience from a youngster he has spent way too much time in his office. I was laughing at his expectations. That age does not know the meaning of the word hurry, nor do they ever do anything linearly. They will push their boundries to find out exactly what they can get away with. I think Ithilden is in big trouble and he is going to wish for some spiders to fight soon.
Author's reply
LOL. You write like someone who has been around kids, Tapetum. Legolas and his friends are interesting to me because you can see the continuum of relationships with parents -- Annael's is easy so far, Turgon's is probably non-existent, and Legolas is in the middle. He loves his father, who is his only parent after all. But he also is starting to declare his independence (which Ithilden is still working on, I'd say!). Yes, indeed. Legolas is a kid, not a warrior who as spent years training to jump when an officer speaks. I am looking forward to writing about that difference!
naneth · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
"Real life" is really getting in my way these days, but I just had to make a moment to review this chapter. I had always felt a little sorry for Ithilden having a son so like Eilian. What a shock to the system that must be for him. But after reading his statement about commanding troops therefore parenting would be a "breeze", I think he received the perfect child for him! Ah, the arrogance of youth. Fun chapter. Can't wait for more even if I can't make time to review as often!
Author's reply
Sorry that RL is bringing you down, Naneth. It happens sometimes when other people don't recognize the importance of fanfiction! Ithilden has a lot to learn. He did a pretty good job with Sinnarn, I think, although I haven't shown a lot of that. So maybe his little brother softened him up.
Jebb · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
And they say ignorance is bliss! How could Ithilden think that running his father's army prepared him for looking after one elfling? Oh that poor elf is in for a rude awakening I think, Loved the fact that Anneal still calls his parents Nana and Ada I suspect Legolas would really like to be able to do that as well And Ithilden gloating albeit very discreetly over the swords And of course Thranduil enjoying his heirs ignorance when it comes to child rearing but hating to see his youngest go off and leave him even if only for a short time Lovely as always
Author's reply
Yes, indeed, rude awakening on the way! Annael strikes me as one of those easy children who slide into adulthood with very little trouble. Of course, he has very good parents who make their love for him clear and spend time with him, which Thranduil has trouble doing, poor guy.
Jay of Lasgalen · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
I loved the description of Ithilden becoming one with the forest in this chapter, and the bonding between the brothers, even if Ithilden is being bossy. But he's so clueless! “I can command obedience from a troop of Wood-elf warriors, Adar. I think I can exact it from one elfling.” LOL! Famous last words, I think. He's got a shock coming, as Thranduil can plainly see. I'd enjoy the camping trip with them, if I didn't suspect you have something in store for them soon. BTW, I like the way Annael's parents (poor Siondel! sniff!) are ada and nana - and even Turgon accepts it. Jay
Author's reply
You write like a parent, Jay! Thranduil is an experienced parent too and, like you, he finds Ithilden's ignorance amusing. You and the Elven king are a good pair. ;-) I still feel bad about Siondel.
Bodkin · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
Ithilden has a lot to learn about the care of elflings! 'Ithilden found himself wanting to please the child if he could.' Oh dear - when did he last find himself wanting to please one of the warriors he commands? Perhaps he needs lessons in the art of subtle manipulation from Annael's mother, who could make them do anything by getting them to choose to do what she wants. I loved the bit about Thranduil looking forward to seeing Eilian suffering from a disobedient elfling - although I suspect he might do quite well as he is good at thinking on his feet and is more empathetic than Thranduil and Ithilden. 'He had no more intention of calling off the guards he had set on his father than he had of taking guards on this camping trip.' Ithilden really needs Alfirin (and Sinnarn). He's even getting into the habit of making Thranduil do what he wants! H'mmm - this trip could be very good for him.
Author's reply
I thought Ithilden was funny too. He seems to think Legolas is going to jump when he barks. Ha! He has a lot to learn and he might learn some of it on this trip. I'm looking forward to seeing Eilian as a parent too, but it's going to be a while before he and Celuwen have kids. And then I have think about what they would be like as parents. Would they have little Wood-elf hellions? Hm. Maybe!
erunyauve · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
'Ithilden smiled. “I can command obedience from a troop of Wood-elf warriors, Adar. I think I can exact it from one elfling.”' Boy, is he going to get a surprise when Sinarn comes along, though Legolas may do his best to prepare him. I loved the bit about Ithilden's ability to seal the doors - he is definitely his father's child. And he certainly needs this vacation if he hasn't been in the woods for a while. How long has it been since Thranduil took his vacation?
Author's reply
Yes, Legolas is going to do Sinnarn a favor on this trip, even though he's not yet a gleam in Ithilden's eye, given that he can't speak a coherent sentence to Alfirin. I don't think I've ever given Thranduil a vacation. Do Elf kings do that?
Manderly · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
That really was sweet. I am still trying to wipe the stupid grin off my face (not working though). Ithilden the commander may find warriors jumping at his beck and call, but little brothers have a mind of their own and may not be as pliant. I think Thranduil has reached this conclusion a while ago - that elflings are sometimes beyond the capability of even the king. Ithilden might just be a little too confident of his commanding qualities. Still I think the brothers will have a nice time bonding and enjoy their little outing. Hmm,you brought up the spider venom antidote again. Excitement ahead?
Author's reply
Even Thranduil can't always make his kids do what he tells them and grown elves shake when he frowns at them. Maybe that's one thing having kids does for kings and commanders. I'm glad you liked the chapter, Manderly.
Ms. Whatsit · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
*snerk* I love how Ithilden compares exacting obedience from warriors to getting the same obedience from Legolas--he has no idea. And I love Thranduil's reaction. And of course, Ithilden's habit of giving orders makes Legolas even more restless. If Eilian were there, now, he could get Legolas to stay in place if he wanted to--though knowing Eilian he'd probably *like* the idea of wandering around the woods at night. I loved the bit about Ithilden insisting on Thranduil's having a guard while going without one himself! It seems that overprotectiveness is *not* something Thranduil failed to pass on to his children, hmm? Annael's parents do seem more like an ada and nana than an adar and naneth. And Thranduil really should spend more time with Legolas. Legolas is lucky to be friends with Annael and "share" his family (but you killed his dad!).
Author's reply
Ithilden is pretty naive about kids, which should make for some fun times ahead. Eilian would think of himself as playing with Legolas rather than making him obey! Thranduil would spend more time with Legolas if they lived in a cottage and he didn't have so many things to deal with. I feel sorry for him. And I still feel really bad about Annael's ada. :-(
Rose Sared · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
Now why do I feel I am waiting for the other shoe to drop? He he. Lovely chapter, really nice interaction between Leggy and his friends and between the brothers. Just yummy. Thanks Rose
Author's reply
The other shoe is perched perilously on the edge of a tree limb and will soon take a tumble. ;-) Thank you, Rose Sared.
Nilmandra · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 3: Brothers
I liked seeing Ithilden's confidence that he could handle one elfling - poor deluded Ithilden! I enjoyed Thranduil's humor at his expense. And Legolas is a 'perfect' brat - he knows what he wants and is not going to be bossed. Poor Legolas - I am sure it is tough to be commanded all the time, but he does need to learn that the world is not a safe place.
Author's reply
Poor, deluded Ithilden indeed. He's so used to having everyone jump and volunteer to carry his sweaty clothes around (I'd do it!) that he thinks Legolas's occasional lapses are just little mistakes that could be handled. Ha! Legolas does know what he wants--go camping? Beg and get to go. Hunt deer? Beg and big brother agrees. Sleep on the flet? Adar is being firm, which is probably a good thing.
lwarren · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
terrific chapter, daw! *sigh* i especially liked *pantpantpant* Ithilden's new mode of attire *hyperventilate*...elf skin is to be appreciated whenever possible *faint* !!!!! ;-) Seriously, I enjoyed the very controlled Ithilden's very embarrassed reaction to Alfirin. She seems to reduce our heir and warrior to mush! A camping trip? Hmmmmm, sounds like elf-mischief to me (of the Legolas kind :0 ). Still, the elfling is definitely looking forward to some time with big brother. Should be fun! I wonder what could and will go wrong? linda
Author's reply
LOL. I have to admit I *appreciated* sweaty, shirtless Ithilden too. And he's funny. He can kick the butt of the other swordfighter and order around every single warrior on the field, making them jump to obey, but Alfirin reduces him to a babbling idiot. At least she can see what she might be getting. He would appeal to me, I can tell you!
lwarren · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 1: Father and Sons
Yay! Another story - I swear I go into withdrawal when you don't have one going on! :-) Ai, an almost-teen Legolas - I foresee....problems (as if cleaning up vomit and bedpans doesn't indicate some already *grin*). Bless his heart tho', I guess sometimes he feels like the only interaction he has with his Adar is disciplinary. Ithilden noticed, too. And as for Ithilden -- ah, young love and long silences.....and pesky brothers! This looks to be great - lots of family interaction and more between Legolas and his oldest brother! Again - YAY!!!!! linda
Author's reply
Poor Thranduil. He has so many responsibilities that when things are going well with Legolas, he does tend to ignore him. And Legolas is the first child he's raised on his own. Nana was there when the other two were this age, so he may not realize all the attention they need because she did some of it before.
Kristy · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
I just plain love little Legolas. I want to take him home with me and bake him cookies. You must spend time around young people. You write them very well and very convincingly. I can't wait to see what happens of the camping trip. I also like how we're seeing more of Ithilden in this story. Will we be getting to see some of his courting of Alfirin? I hope so. (or have you already ritten it somewhere that I missed?) Anyway, I'm very happy that you've started a new story. I enjoy tem so much!
Author's reply
I spend a lot of time around young adults, but I have a son. My favorite camping story for him happened when he was around the age Legolas is now. His whole grade went winter camping for a week, and when he came back, I opened his suitcase, expecting to have a ton of laundry to do and found everything still neatly folded and untouched. He had changed his socks once because they got wet. I just unpacked and put everything away again! We're not going to see too much of Ithilden and Alfirin here. They don't get married for another 13 years (I know that, because I wrote about it in "Joinings") so they need to go slowly. I'm having fun with them though. Maybe Ithilden is never going to have to speak a coherent sentence to her and can just get away with taking off his shirt! It would work for me.
Estel_Mi_Olor · 6 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
Another great chapter, Daw! Ithilden must be the ideal elder brother, the attention he is giving to Legolas is so sweet. I am highly amused at his overdue leave. Just like Ithilden to make sure everyone else has had a break, except himself. I seem to remember another story of yours in which Dwarven blades were a problem...but wasn't Legolas a little older? I could be confusing things, but Legolas seems to be very young in this story. Ithilden's awkwardness where Alifrin is involved is charming. I love to see the self-assured Prince falter...:) The upcoming camping trip will be interesting...and something tells me that all will not go well...
Author's reply
This story is set immediately after the other one about the Dwarven weapons. Legolas is supposed to be more or less the equivalent of a human child of 11 or so. He's not yet a teenager, but he's not a child either (not that Thranduil has noticed that part). Alfirin seems to reduce Ithilden to a blithering idiot, poor guy. It's nice to know that it will come out ok.
caz - baz · 6 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
that is so sweet. i wish my brother was alot older than me then i wouldn't get bossed around by him and maybe the time we spend together wouldn't be wasted arguing and trying to out do the other. i'd like to read about Legolas and Ithilden as they're rarely together, it's usually Eilian and Legolas.
Author's reply
Legolas might disagree with you about the bossing around part! Ithilden can be pretty bossy too. But it is true that Ithilden and Legolas are so far apart in age that they don't feel competitive with one another. Legolas knows he's his father best kid and Ithilden knows he's the trusted oldest son. I'm having fun writing about them together, so I'm glad you like it.
Rose Sared · 6 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
How do you write so fast and so well? I am in awe and green with envy. I join the majority in enjoying nekkid (well half) elf and lots of swash and buckle in the sword department. Love your relationships, and OC's of course, as ever. Rose
Author's reply
It doesn't feel to me as if I write fast. It feels as if I sit and stare at a paragraph for a long time! But in the case of the paragraph about Ithilden in his sweaty, shirtless state, that might have been coincidence. ;-) Thank you for your kind words.
Jebb · 6 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
What a lovely chapter Legolas with his archery and Ithilden sparring and half naked now what a mental picture that summoned up no wonder Alfirin was rendered speechless Perhaps Thranduil could raise some extra money for the treasury by selling tickets to all the maidens of Mirkwood next time this occurs I would certainly buy one! Ithilden reduced to stammering and blushing what power that maiden has! And Legolas the optimist he hasn't said yes yet! although he has learned he doesn't like telling lies to his Adar or the consequences either I suspect. Well done Ithilden's aide at getting him to take a break has anyone suggested to Thranduil he might try it sometime? The camping trip sounds a great idea but somehow I don't think it is all going to be a bed of roses can't wait to find out more
Author's reply
The sons of Thranduil had a good morning on the training field (and so did the female onlookers at the adults end of the field). And I think that Ithilden's awkwardness around Alfirin is a sign of how far gone he is already. He's normally pretty self-confident, as she should know, since she's seen him giving orders and snapping at people. Legolas must have some of Eilian's optimism! Although, as you suggest, he may also just have gotten tired of mopping up vomit. :-)
Camp6311 · 5 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
Add me to the list of those ogling sweaty, stripped to the waist Ithilden, sigh, you do like to make your readers squirm. Those dwarves, what a pain! You should at least consult with your customers on goods they've paid for before you implement a design change, even if the new design is superior. A camping trip, sounds fun, and how could anything possibly go wrong with Ithilden in charge. :)
Author's reply
With Ithilden "in charge" indeed! I'm sure that Legolas will jump to obey just as all the warriors do! I could picture the Dwarves saying to one another, "If the pointy-eared fools can't tell these swords are better, to Mordor with them. We refuse to explain ourselves."
erunyauve · 5 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
Yes, Thranduil *was* supposed to take Legolas camping, wasn't he? I have a feeling, however, that Ithilden's leave isn't going to be quite as restful as he thinks (remind me not to ask you to help plan my next vacation in Mirkwood). Thranduil really does need to trust Ithilden a bit more. And I loved Calith's sneakiness and Ithilden's suave (not!) manner before Alfirin.
Author's reply
I have to say that camping (ie sleeping in the dirt) with a boy Legolas's age strikes me as a little slice of hell. But then I'm not such an outdoorsy type. I had to sit and think for a long time to come up with anything people might do while camping that would count as fun. And apart from a nice walk in the woods, none of it looks that great to me. Ithilden and Thranduil are learning to work together. It must be hard for Ithilden to do what his king and father expect and still be himself, with his own strengths to contribute.
The Karenator · 5 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
I hardly even noticed Ithilden's chest glistening like marble kissed by the early morning dew, or his muscles rippling like summer heat off stone, or shoulders so broad he could be a Calvin Klein model. I definitely didn't pay any mind to his lean hips clad only in leggings so tight that each muscle of his thighs strained like rope thick enough to moor a battleship. Nope, I didn't notice a thing.... Well, our commander certainly turned to mush at the sight of a certain young maiden, didn't he? Poor Ithilden. He has no idea. Poor Penntalion! He was just trying to be nice to the sister of one of his young charges...wasn't he? I'd say that Ithilden might have overreacted a tad. Oh well, Alfirin probably didn't notice since she was busy 'not' noticing he was not wearing a tunic. This Type-A Elf really does need a little holiday.... My favorite line: “He has not said yes yet,..." In some circles, not saying 'yes' is pretty much the same thing as saying 'no'. Legolas...Legolas...Legolas.... Such a good chapter, daw. This camping trip sounds like fun. I have my bedroll and aewbas packed. I'm ready when you are....
Author's reply
LOL. I'm glad you just averted your eyes from the half-naked, sweaty elf with the muscles. It wouldn't be polite to ogle him now, would it? ;-) The question to ask yourself about Alfirin is why she was at the practice field when she had never been there before. Picking up Tonduil? What? He's too little to walk home by himself? I don't think so! Legolas does seem to have a fair amount of faith in his ability to get around Ada. Thranduil doesn't seem to me to be the easily persuadable type (as Ithilden would testify). But maybe the baby has a different experience.
Manderly · 5 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
I just realize that you have written very little of Ithilden and Legolas together in your stories and I am enjoying this immensely. Ithilden has always been more of a father figure to Legolas than a brother and it's nice to see them being "brotherly" for a change. I am looking forward to the camping trip as much as Legolas, I think. Your description of Ithilden's behaviour in Alfirin's presence is so in character. I've always seen him as a control freak of a sort (just like his father) and having to deal with emotions that he has never experienced before must be very frustrating and perhaps even frightening. A blushing and tongue-tied Ithilden is such a far cry from the usual intimidating commander of warriors that I cannot help but giggle in glee.
Author's reply
I'm interested in what effect the big age differences in Elves would have on sibling relationships. I think you're right that Ithilden is somewhat paternal toward Legolas. But he and Legolas both know he's not Legolas's father, and Thranduil probably doesn't allow much interference in his parenting, so in the long run, he's a brother. You can see that in Eilian easily. Ithilden is so much older that it's harder for him. I'll bet Ithilden *hates* being all awkward with Alfirin. It's a feeling he's not at all used to.
Justafan · 5 May 2004 · Chapter 2: Struggling with Weapons
Yay, another story! And yay, a young Legolas! I have always enjoyed your portrayal of Legolas's younger days and I like this look into Ithilden's life before Alfirin became his wife. It is a bit bittersweet because one already knows what happens to the rambunctious friendships of Legolas's past... Anyway, thank you for writing this story!
Author's reply
I've missed writing about young Legolas and am happy to be back doing it. And one of the things I wanted to do in this story was get to know Ithilden a little better because I felt I didn't have as good a handle on him as I did on Eilian. I'm having fun!