daw the minstrel
· 28 March 2005
· Chapter 57: The New Year
A few years ago, I moved from a wooded part of the world to the prairie. Granted, I lived in a city before, but even there, trees sprang up without any encouragement in yards and even in unwanted places like gutters. You had to hack them down or they'd take over. And here, we've been nourishing two little maples in our front yard and I despair of them ever getting big enough to shade our house. The wind and the drier soil keep them from flourishing. And I feel completely unsheltered. So I know how the twins and Legolas felt.
Author's reply
We don't have wide prairies and deep forests - everything's been farmed for too many centuries. But this part of the country does go in for beech copses and oak woodland. And, come to that, stands of silver birch and Forestry Commission pines. A countryside without trees seems to me to be very - well, naked.
We were in Australia last year (cousin's wedding anniversary yesterday - congratulations M and N) and went on this evening thing at Uluru (the monument formerly known as Ayer's Rock) and there we were, sitting in the middle of nowhere, with nothing to be seen but a sky full of alien constellations. It is quite intimidating to be a small creature in the middle of so much space.
For elves, with their connection to growing things and the land, it must be somewhere between painful and euphoric as they are cut off from treesong and exposed to the older, deeper, relentless song of the making. (I wonder if they took to trees to shield themselves.)
Never been to the prairies (well - any part of America), but I would miss trees. I hope yours grow. (Perhaps you should sing to them.)
elliska
· 28 March 2005
· Chapter 57: The New Year
What a very nice tribute to Yestarë! I imagine that after Frodo, Sam and Gimli passed, it was very easy for the elves to forget (and even when they were there, they were likely dismissed by some). But they deeds were great and deserving of the Elves' rememberance. I really enjoy hearing these three remember their lost friends and plan how to honor them. That was really nice. Silly as it sound's, it made me a little teary. :)
Author's reply
Everthing to do with mortals must seem so ephemeral to immortals who didn't have them as such an important part of their lives. And they can truthfully say here 'my wife doesn't understand me'. Miriwen might have a bit more of a grasp - she did spend some time training in Imladris, but the other two can never have met one of the Secondborn (except possibly Tuor, who is hardly typical anyway.)
Setting up an elven tradition will give them something to take passionately over the next century or so - and none can be in a better position to start something like that than the sons of Thranduil and Elrond, or the (g-) grandsons of Galadriel/Celeborn and Finarfin/Earwen. The ellyn have CONNECTIONS.
This reflection didn't start out to mourn their mortal friends - or to celebrate the victory over Sauron, but hey, that's what they wanted to talk about.
Jay of Lasgalen
· 28 March 2005
· Chapter 57: The New Year
This was a lovely chapter. I loved E2L reminiscing about the sky and stars of Rohan - and especially Elrohir's comment about the 'star song'. It seemed so very elfy. I also liked Legolas's observation of the differences between the twins, yet how at times like this they still seem like 'two halves of the same shell. I always like to see the contrast between their differences and similarities, and their closeness.
I agree with E2L - celebrate the new year, so that all remember it!
Jay
Author's reply
Thank you. It didn't go where it was meant to at all - but that happens sometimes with these. E2L just spark off and head in their own direction. Fortunately, since there is absolutely no plot, they can pretty much take their heads.
The vastness of a sky over a huge treeless plain can seem a little overwhelming to poor humans - and who better to hear star song than the grandsons of Gil Estel.
I think the twins can still pull that shell round themselves at times, to hold off the rest of the world. It grew to be a defence after Celebrian was wounded - and it must frustrate their wives enormously when they shrug it on. Not that they need it much now.
By 'next year' they might have got something up and running - they will have to find another anniversary to go off and celebrate in private by talking over old times.
Redheredh
· 13 March 2005
· Chapter 56: Absence and the Loving Heart
I really like Elladan's lively honesty and humility. He may look foolish about women to his buddies, but he seems to be the one who is the least manipulated by the women in his life. ;) Darn, you make me like all three as regular guys!
Beyond this one chapter, I truly enjoy everything you write because it is written so beautifully.
Author's reply
Thank you - I am so flattered!
I like Elladan - and Miriwen is the perfect match for him. There's no pretence to her and she has a well developed sense of humour about males and their idiosyncrasies. And Elladan has no daughter to pout at him and get her own way. (The other two say that they are quite happy, thank you, as well. Although Elrohir is looking forward to his daughters becoming a little less stressful.)
Jay of Lasgalen
· 13 March 2005
· Chapter 56: Absence and the Loving Heart
Trust the twins to make Legolas see there is a positive side to Elerrina's departure! Will we see the three of them off in the woods?
Jay
Author's reply
Well - we weren't. But I suppose we could. If I can think of something slightly different for them to do while they're there. I'll let the idea fester!
Yes, Elrohir has managed to make Legolas see his family's absence in a much more positive light.
Karri
· 13 March 2005
· Chapter 56: Absence and the Loving Heart
‘You could accompany her,’ Elrohir offered. ‘I am sure she would not object to taking her husband along with her.’
They strolled in silence for a few moments.
‘On the other hand,’ Legolas said thoughtfully...
Argh! Poor Legolas! It is ever so horrible when someone points out a solution instead of letting one enjoying a perfectly good whine. An amusing and highly entertaining chapter, Bodkin.
Author's reply
Thank you. Well - you can't expect E2 to put up with him moaning for too long!
I think they're lucky to have less difficult parents-in-law - but then they have enough connections to make them acceptable to Miriwen and Sirithiel's parents. Elerrina's parents are, I am afraid, Noldor snobs! They would be more accepting of E2 - because they would be terrified of offending Galadriel and her illustrious papa. Whereas Legolas is, I am afraid (pause for looking down the nose) a Wood-Elf.
I expect they will have fun in the woods while Elerrina's away.
The Karenator
· 13 March 2005
· Chapter 56: Absence and the Loving Heart
This my favorite line:‘Anyone who grew up with Galadriel and Celeborn as parents would have to develop an above average level of talent in getting her own way,’ Legolas allowed. ‘Your naneth not only gets everyone to do as she wishes, she also makes them grateful for the opportunity to please her.’
I get this wonderful visual of Celebrian smiling sweetly as she manipulates the males of her life like toy soldiers. But I also see her as kind-hearted. And it's reasonable to think that her husband and sons would be willing to do her bidding after all the years they were without her. Seems somewhat like gratitude on their part; they have her back! I wonder if she tutors? I could use some help in getting the husband and sons in my life to do anything around this disheveled castle.
I laughed when Legolas reviewed his options. He could stay home and be alone or he could accompany his family to the in-laws. Things immediately started looking up. This was his chance to do 'guy' stuff. And his friends are so willing to 'protect' him while he was doing it. Very funny.
Wonderful snippet of life in Valinor for three former warriors who are never quite sure how to navigate peace and families. These three also drop a little wisdom every now and then that you slip in so effortlessly. Delightful as always.
I look forward to the next 'day in the life' of these friends.
Karen
Author's reply
'She manipulated the males of her life like toy soldiers.' What an EXCELLENT description. And they would all be ecstatic to have her back in top finagling form, wouldn't they?
No choice for Legolas, really, is it? Spend weeks forcing a smile for your adar-in-law or stay at home and do 'guy' stuff. I think Elerrina is being kind to him really. Miriwen might have made him come along for the ride, so that NEXT time he would know better than to complain.
I think these three would insist that wives and children are far more difficult than orcs and wargs.
More soon!
elliska
· 13 March 2005
· Chapter 56: Absence and the Loving Heart
Why is it that I can sooo see Legolas as a mule-like personality!? That conversation was great! The way you phrase things in these conversations just never ceases to amuse me. I giggle like a child all through these. And I love the comparisons of the families--I definitely think Celebrian would have been particularly skilled in many areas after being raised by Galadriel and Celeborn and married to Elrond. I never thought of that but what a life for her! And naturally our elves are going to go appreciate a little male-bonding time. Loved it. :)
Author's reply
He's beautiful, blond, apparently compliant, likes to please. That's prime mule-like personality!
Ahh - Celebrian could wrap her adar round her little finger. And then she perfected her skills on Elrond. Galadriel attempted to keep her in line - but everyone conspired against her to please the enchanting, silver-haired princess with the winning smile. Talking of learning from your parents - there were times when Galadriel picked up a few things from her daughter on the art of managing males whilst looking as if you were giving in to them.
Visit to in-laws / male-bonding. Not much of a decision for them to make, really!
Thank you.
daw the minstrel
· 13 March 2005
· Chapter 56: Absence and the Loving Heart
LOL. I agree with Legolas's conclusion. I send my husband off to visit his parents by himself quite regularly. "I'm so sorry but I have all this work to do and can't go with you, Sweetie!"
Author's reply
Very wise. In-laws prefer to see their beloved offspring unencumbered by unnecessary spouses anyway.
There was much more about flirting in this to start with, but it just didn't seem quite right, so there was a last minute change of emphasis.
elliska
· 9 March 2005
· Chapter 55: Surprise
Sorry to be so long in reviewing this. I hurt my back and the drugs are making it impossible for me to concentrate on reading. Maddening really.
I was hoping a new elfling would be the surprise and it was! I loved the discussion of the timing of children (we alredy agree on the need for siblings!) and the way wives twist their husbands to their will on this topic. So true!
and also:
the thought of some simple violence is very tempting after far too much time spent being tactful and conciliatory.’ LOL! Also, too true.
Looking forward to the next one. :)
Author's reply
Aiming some simple violence at those to whom you have to be tactful and conciliatory is a very tempting idea. Of course, it's purely fantasy - one mustn't frighten the horses.
Sorry about your back - backs are the most annoying things. Bad piece of design really - they're under too much strain. Hope it recovers soon.
I contemplated whether they should have a daughter, but it was too neat - and anyway, Elrin would probably rather have a brother than risk another elleth. To my mind he's quite old to have a first sibling, but in elven terms the two brothers will be quite close - I haven't quite worked out the timeline, (I only do that carefully when doing Elflings), but I think Elrin is 30-35 ish. Maybe a little older.
Next one half done. The one after that done. Must write some more - I like being able to post these when I don't have time to write anything else. I must get back to Earendil, but I've got Galadriel and Celeborn demanding time in the woods, and Arwen complaining that it's about time I added some more to her story. And then Nimloth and Aewlin are in the middle of tormenting Galadriel and Thranduil. It would be so much more efficient to focus on one story at a time!
The Karenator
· 7 March 2005
· Chapter 55: Surprise
Bodkin...I'm ashamed to tell you that I've read every single one of your chapters--as you posted them--and have not left one review. I'm terrible with reviewing and should be shot at sunrise, though being bad at something is not really a good excuse for not doing it. I have enjoyed every single word of this tale. It's such a neat idea and very original. I've seen Valinor stories, of course, but the way you've done this is such fun. Even though the chapters aren't long, you've done a great job of telling us all sorts of things about the characters. And you've given us a very personal look at them. The 'feel' of the story is very visual and very revealing emotionally. I find this whole story to be just delightful. And I have from the beginning. I look forward to the new chapters. Oh me...you can shoot me now.
Great story and I'm enjoying it...so maybe you could wait to shoot me until it's finished...if you don't mind.
Karen
Author's reply
I'm glad you enjoy it - reviews are a pleasure, but don't worry about not doing them. It's good to hear from you now. This whole story just grew from a very small beginning and has taken on a life of its own. I can't see it ever coming to a conclusion really - because it doesn't really have a story, it's just a group of friends talking about their lives. It has only two rules for writing - two pages of Word maximum and no-one speaks except E2L.
(And I'll pass on the shooting! It might be a bit of an extreme reaction. And I'd rather keep learning more about the lovely Daeron and his friends and associates.)
Nilmandra
· 7 March 2005
· Chapter 55: Surprise
My first reaction is to hrrmmpph at another son and demand a daughter, but I think Elrin will have more fun with a brother. More trouble and mischievousness.
I rather think Elrond and Celebrian will get over any inconvenience very quickly when they hear this news! As for Elladan - I'd say his timing is wonderful. He gets out of certain duties and everyone is happy with him. :D
Author's reply
My instincts wanted to present them with a daughter - but it would be just too neat. And Elrohir has two and Legolas one. Someone has to overdose on sons - and Elladan just pulled the short straw - and he is a descendant of a family that seems to produce mainly sons.
I don't think Celebrian will mind acquiring another grandbaby one bit - and if Elrond tried to keep her away, she'd fight to get back.
Yes, Elladan will be patting himself on the back as soon as he realises what a clever move this is.
Thank you for commenting.
daw the minstrel
· 7 March 2005
· Chapter 55: Surprise
Congratulations, Elladan! I must say that I like Elrin. He's such a sweet, serious boy. He'll make a wonderful big brother.
As a parent, however, I was always annoyed with other parents who had kids like that and took credit for it! I mean, they deserved some credit, obviously, but a lot of temperament is sort of luck of the draw. So I can sympathize with Legolas and Elrohir too.
Author's reply
I rather like Elrin myself. I'm not sure he'll be as ecstatic about getting a sibling as Nana and Ada think, but he'll deal with it. And at least his brother is unlikely to be quite such a pain as his cousins.
Aewlin and Nimloth are improving - really! In a few years, Elrohir will forget most of their awfulness. And Galenthil and Eleniel aren't too bad.
The real down point to another member of House Elrond is having to think of a name for him!
Jay of Lasgalen
· 7 March 2005
· Chapter 55: Surprise
Ha, I knew it! I'm not surprised that Elrohir guessed as well - he does know his brother rather well.
I liked Elladan remembering when Arwen was young, and how it was such a treat for her to spend time with her brothers. It will be nice for Elrin to have a little brother - and after all his experience with two sets of twin cousins, he'll be a great big brother!
I agree with Elrohir, though - it would be best to wait until his two are finally grown up before he and Sirithiel consider starting again!
Jay
Author's reply
I do feel a bit for all these elflings who really grew up as only children. It's no wonder that elflings were supposed to be very sensible and need little direction - they were all loners with very over-attentive parents. E2 must have been among few infant lordlings with equals to play with and torment. It's no wonder they have developed a reputation for mischief.
I think Miriwen and Elladan are right to present Elrin with a sibling before he gets too old - and he will be a good brother. Possibly a bit too managing for the pleasure of the new little one!
Elrohir and Sirithiel won't be rushing to produce more elflings. Shame really - Sirithiel was desperately anxious to have little ones, but I think she's been ground down rather by the somewhat - shall we say - strong-minded brats to whom she gave birth.
elliska
· 2 March 2005
· Chapter 54: Playing the Master
Well, what is the secret?! That was very naughty to leave us wondering. :) I like the thought of Legolas and the twins having to take on their parents' duties now and again. That has potential for fun. I liked this line: He listens to what people are not saying as well as to the words on their lips.... Too true! That is indeed often necessary.
So I hope the next chapter will clue us in to the sceret. :) Thanks for these. I love them.
Author's reply
The secret will be apparent shortly. (I was going to leave it at this - but somehow Miriwen and Elrohir just came up with a couple of comments I couldn't resist adding.)
I wonder if the twins could spell Earendil on star duty and give the half-elf some time off? He must be due a good bit of leave by now!
I love writing these when other things are pressing - so I can see the supply building up nicely!
Lindelea
· 2 March 2005
· Chapter 54: Playing the Master
I love the pictures you paint with words!
"particularly elegant stork"
"listens to what people aren't saying"
"superannuated" (!)
Looking forward to more.
Author's reply
Thank you. I think Elrond is good at listening to the spaces between the words.
There will be more. Many of them, I expect. I particularly like doing these when I'm fed up - so now is a good moment to build up a store of them!
daw the minstrel
· 2 March 2005
· Chapter 54: Playing the Master
I'm guessing, of course, but I thought there might be another elfling on the way. But would the announce that while Elrond and Celebrian were away? Hm.
Author's reply
In Elladan's words, (coming soon) - ‘Miriwen says there are some secrets you can only keep for so long.’
I think Elrond and Celebrian received first official notification, though.
Jay of Lasgalen
· 2 March 2005
· Chapter 54: Playing the Master
Bodkin! Elladan's not the only one being mysterious and keeping secrets! And Elrohir and Legolas are not the only ones who want to know what's going on. When are you both going to put us all out of our misery?
Another good chapter - I particularly like Elladan being lordly, and Elrohir's response. I suspect that Elrohir does not know what Elladan is up to, but has guessed.
Jay
Author's reply
I suspect Sirithiel knows, too. She might even have been the one to share her suspicions with Elrohir! Legolas will be surprised, though.
I was going to leave it here - and let everyone guess! But since you want to know, the answer will be along soon.
Jay of Lasgalen
· 5 February 2005
· Chapter 53: Night Sight
The picture of the elves dancing in the woods by moonlight and firelight is magical. It's a lovely image.
I always find discussions of the twins' heritage interesting - it's so mixed and complex. It must be strange to have such famous legends as your relatives - Lúthien, Earendil, etc. I liked this line:
'You could be a hobbit,’ Legolas said disapprovingly.
‘One of the races, at least, to which we are not related,’ Elrohir observed.' True - hobbits, and dwarves. They're related to everything else!
What's Elladan planning? Is it time for Elrin to have a younger brother or sister?
Author's reply
Elladan. H'mm. Will become apparent shortly.
Not related to hobbits and dwarves. And possibly trolls. Because, of course, elves and orcses . . .
Their heritage is fascinating - I am fairly family tree obsessed at the best of times, and the family of Elrond covers various sheets of paper as I've had a go at working out their various percentages of what. It's a little hit and miss, as Tolkien decided to omit various unimportant people like Celeborn's mother - and Earwen's - and Turgon's - and Galadhon's - and practically all the women of the Edain.
I'm glad you liked seeing them celebrating in the woods - it has a certain excitement that is missing from their more orderly lordly behaviour.
SharonB
· 2 February 2005
· Chapter 53: Night Sight
LOL, those three as always. It always does end in smoething, eh? A dare ... I wonder to what kind of dance? LOL, that their children might learn to take after them ... ‘We do not accept challenges without thought.’ As if this is compensation ... we'll think about it but still do it anyway? Is it any wonder that they need to make sure the elfings are being properly supervised, with such heritage mayhaps they should just lock them away forever. ;-)
Nice to see a hobbit reference in there. I wonder how much Loegoals thinks of his hobbit friends.
Author's reply
One of those very masculine energetic dances, I think. Competitive dancing.
And we come to competition again. How can they turn down a challenge? I expect they feel that they grew up all right - and optimistically expect their elflings to do the same. At least there are no orcs for them to have to face.
Elven memory being pretty sharp, I expect the Nine Walkers have their home in Legolas's mind - but he would have had to move on if he was not to stagnate. I think memory hits them sometimes, unexpectedly - especially when they are in their 'free time'.
I wonder if Legolas was remembering the time the Dwarves and Bilbo burst in on the feast?
elliska
· 2 February 2005
· Chapter 53: Night Sight
Ahh, I love the image of Legolas and his wife dancing in the forest. How beautiful that is. And I love the twins' memories of their first feast in Eryn Lasgalen. I loved picturing Elrond and Celebrian dancing and the twin's reaction to that.
‘You could be a hobbit,’ Legolas said disapprovingly.
‘One of the races, at least, to which we are not related,’ Elrohir observed.
Great interchange. I just love these. May they keep coming to your head.
Author's reply
They will! Although I now only have one in store.
Yes. Hobbits and Dwarves - neither of those races is on the family tree of the Elrondionnath. Although one could argue that Legolas is related to the Dwarves - by affection, if not blood.
(And there does seem to be something slightly elven about hobbits at times.)
I loved picturing Elrond letting his hair down and giving in to his Sindar / Maiar side.
Lindelea
· 2 February 2005
· Chapter 53: Night Sight
A nice glimpse and a bow to "The Hobbit".
I laughed aloud at this: Two pairs of eyes met his disbelievingly.
The talk of Elrond joining the dance made me catch my breath somehow.
Thanks!
Author's reply
Thank you. These three know each other so well - they know exactly which buttons to press to wind each other up.
I think Elrond has hidden wild depths beneath his sober disciplined exterior. Perhaps Celebrian will take it as her duty in the Blessed Realm to liberate the poet from the politician.
daw the minstrel
· 2 February 2005
· Chapter 53: Night Sight
You really are good at evoking atmosphere, Bodkin. The first few paragraphs of this are lovely, and the image of the wilder dancing is very evocative. It's like these elves are part of a more primitive world even while they are, in some ways, more refined than we will ever be. And what has Elladan got up his sleeve?
Author's reply
Thank you! They are closer to - well, reality, I suppose - nature. And that is pretty primitive.
Elladan's secret? Will be revealed in time!!
Nilmandra
· 28 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Making an Effort
One nice thing about the long life of the Eldar is that they really have forever to try out different things and then perfect it! And perhaps its good to have so many generations of family around them, for there are many teachers.
I am glad to see her engaged though, poor little elleth! HOw hard when one just doesn't know what to with themselves.
Author's reply
I wonder if Galadriel sees herself in Nimloth. I think they have quite a lot in common. The elflings can take their time to develop - especially here in the Blessed Realm, where there are no external dangers to force them into early maturity. (Like poor Elrond.)
She will find her path, I think. She may be putting off having to think about it, because doing so will separate her rather more from her twin. I don't think Nimloth is ready to accept that they are individuals - closer than most, but not able to live each other's life. When she can understand that, I think she will be more willing to move forward.
lwarren
· 26 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Making an Effort
As usual, the conversation between these three friends is delightful. An arthritic bear? Oh, now I KNOW that I would have been insulted! LOL What really touched a chord in me though was the discussion about Nimloth and finding her the "path" or career that she is suited for. I am so glad they are going to keep providing her with opportunities to try other things until she finds that one thing suited to her personality. I work with gifted kids at school and you can't imagine how some of the parents relentlessly push those kids. It's no wonder they "turn off" ...and some of them never realize their talents. Nimloth appears to be that different kind of child...the one who responds to things in unexpected ways, the one who needs a challenge to hold her interest. What good advice these adars are giving each other! I hope she finds exactly what she is looking for! (Had to howl about the jewels *vbg*...and the fact that wood-working indicates more Sindar than Noldor influence! Which of course, led to the Wood Elf insult and Legolas with his comparison of Aragorn's proficiency to E2's ineptness! :-) And Thranduil taking the others to shoot was nice, too!) I love these little chances you give us to "pop in" and get a bird's eye view of the lives and thoughts of these elves! Great!
linda
Author's reply
Legolas needs to watch out - he has issued a challenge there. Who knows what might result! I suppose elves have plenty of time to offer choices to their kids. And they are educated at home as individuals, which can help. One of the down sides to school is that 'one size fits all' model. There are elements of elven education that must be general, but it is adaptable to the needs of the child. And (to be honest) E2L are in a good position for providing opportunities - they are high-ranking and presumably wealthy elves, rather than stable-hands or farmers, who might not have the means or time - or social clout - to give their offspring the chance to be different.
(They are very good friends - they would have to be to insult each other with such happy abandon!)