Estel_Mi_Olor
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
*Tears and a big happy grin* That was an excellent conclusion to one of your darker fics. Great job!
I was so worried for Legolas when Thranduil found out that he had gone. Poor Turgon-he must have been scared out of a year's growth. But it is very amusing to see him scared.
I don't know whether Legolas deserves congratulations for his interference or not. Probably not because he could have been killed. And they didn't find out the name of the Boss, although Bierd seems like he would tell. But Legolas's reaction shows how his skills as a warrior are in shape. He will need quick reaction skills later in life. Good to see he's developing them.
I'm glad Thranduil didn't have a heart attack. The punishment was just and beneficial to the miscreant. But I feel bad for the "imbecile" guard. I thought that was a bit harsh on Thranduil's part-especially because it's usually the bad guy who mistreats his guards. But it was funny.
I loved the moment between Maltanuar and Hiolith. Good thing Hiolith is getting some treatment, and that Maltanuar knows how important it is to be with him. I agree with Maltanuar-Elves that have served the Crown like Hiolith did should not be forgotten.
The romance developing between Ithilden and Alifrin is also very cute! I hope there's more in your next fic! Thanks again and keep writing!
Author's reply
Thank you, Estel.
I figure that once Turgon recovered a little, he probably decided that this was one of the most exciting things that's happened in a while.
I'm not sure that Legolas made things any better when he jumped into the fight. Eilian was trying to keep things from getting to that point, but once Legolas showed up, the only thing to do was fight. It's a good thing Thranduil and Ithilden arrived when they did.
Nothing too bad will happen to the guard. He works for Ithilden anyway and Thranduil will cool down. But the guy did NOT have a good day.
One of the themes I was interested in in this story was community and what the community owes to individuals. Hiolith is being brought back into the community he served which had forgotten him. I love Maltanaur!
Alice
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Well all's well that end's well. There were some scary moments in that chapter. Eilian in danger, Legolas being held hostage, the general wrath of Thranduil.Poor Turgon. My first thought when Thranduil decided to go and see how Legolas was holding up was, " Run, Turgon, run!" I think confining Turgon to his house for a couple of years might be a bit harsh. Just a few months. I sometimes wonder what I would do if I had a kid with a friend like Turgon and I think Thranduil is remarkabley calm under the circumstances.
I loved the little bits with Ithilden and Alfirin. Thranduil gave some wise advice there. Ithilden's really cute though, analyzing everything his chosen has said to him and startling his guards. Though I think the guards probably are glad to see things going well.
I'm glad Bierd was smart and cooperated. I liked him. Unlike Sirad who didn't quite get the fact that his old buddy Thranduil was a bigger threat to him than his boss at the moment. Fool.
Well I really enjoyed this story. It was darker than your usual stories but Ithilden's courtship of Alfirin lightened things up considerably, though I'm sure Ithilden wouldn't feel that way. I look forward to your next story.
Author's reply
I model Turgon on one of my son's two best friends. I was VERY glad when the kid didn't get into the same university my son did so they couldn't room together as they had planned.
You are undoubtedly right about the guards hoping Ithilden's romance goes well. He's probably not too pleasant to have around when there's been one of those little 'incidents.'
Bierd and Hiolith were both interesting characters for me because I kept trying not to treat them one-dimensionally. It's very tempting to make men into the villains.
I'm glad you enjoyed it, Alice. I enjoyed writing it.
Tapetum Lucidum
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
You ended that one quickly! I thought for sure there would be another chapter. Ithilden... thinking of something else... Who could it be? I have no doubt Thranduil found out exactly what happened in the grove. It must be hard to give up control when you are used to being a commander. At work I get all my calls screened and a lot of "Whatever you say." It is hard to go home and not get the same treatment. The king's thoughts on courage were very appropriate.
Thranduil's "Little Chat" with Turgon was great. I don't think I have ever seen Turgon so un-nerved. His eyes were round with "fascinated dismay." That phrase is great. I think the guard may be changing his leggings later. I enjoyed Thranduil's reaction. He plays the calm, cool king but put his little elfling in danger and it all goes out the window. His reaction was perfect - he was thinking logically but there was no way in Mordor that he was not going after the wayward child.
The lack of trust between Maltanaur and Legolas was very amusing. Usually kids are way too trusting but in this case Maltanaur had apparently lost face when he failed to "protect" Eilan from the Dangwath. Legolas is not ready to give it back yet either. I liked how he had an internal debate - wanting to believe the best in his brother.
Your use of Eilan's position to negotiate with the drug dealers was a nice twist. I didn't see that one coming. It was an excellent way to meet Mr. Big. Legolas, ever the archer, was watching the positions and knew when Maltanaur's shot was blown. That was very much in character for the studious warrior in training. The next minute was a blur of excitement. Rhon is very lucky that Legolas was unharmed. I don't know if the elfling was more frightened as a hostage or of his father. It did play out well for the elves. This way Eilian didn't have to accompany them back to the town. It was a good thing Legolas was there - if only he had kept his mouth shut!
When the next scene started I wondered if Thranduil had resorted to corporeal punishment for the wild child. He has been tempted before (or is it later) when Legolas unearthed a spy. I didn't think it was very "Daw" but I figured it out when I finished the scene. Hopefully Thranduil has figured out that telling a kid not to worry does not make it so. A little explanation would have gone a long way in protecting him. Attending court - the ultimate torture. I doubt much more happened to Turgon.
Eilian's shedding of the shadow was a joyous scene. I felt very happy for him. His father and brother were wise to quickly spread the word about his deception. Hooray for Ithilden! That stick up his backside is finally good for something. Having Maltanaur comfort Hiolith was a good way to end the tale.
I am sorry for your car that had to move outside. It is a little bit sad. You spend a lot of hours in those things, then they have to move on.
Author's reply
You have exactly pegged what I think is Ithilden's problem here. He likes to be in control and he's used to having people jump when he speaks, and it makes him very uncomfortable that Alfirin is a different kind of problem. In that sense, maybe the loss of control in the mishaps is a good thing. They certainly show that he's willing to do something very uncomfortable for her.
Legolas loves Eilian pretty uncritically and had decided that this was all Maltanaur's fault, so he kept an eye on his brother to see if what Maltanaur had told him was true.
Legolas was exceedingly lucky to be unharmed! At least by the Men. That swat with the sword was the only time Thranduil struck him, but a sword is pretty hard and Thranduil was incensed to start with and then pushed over the edge by Legolas boasting to Eilian, so I thought it might have been a fairly firm hit. And I do hope Thranduil has learned something too. This is a bright, sensitive kid who needs to understand why he should do things, not just be told.
And everyone else gets to feel better too. I needed that!
You're making me laugh about my car.
Emily
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Thranduil was just wonderful. I laughed when he smacked Legolas's bottom. I laughed again when Legolas dragged himself out of the tub. Poor thing.
I really liked Thranduil's conversation with Legolas. Legolas felt a small surge of excitement. “I would like it if you would tell me things like Annael’s adar tells him.” I thought that was sad. The kid needs more attention. It's too bad Nana isn't there. All of them missed her presence in this story.
It looks like Ithilden is making a bit a headway. I bet Alfirin is mortified at having called him 'Ithilden.' Ha.
The last part with Maltanaur and Hiolith was wonderful. I like Maltanaur a lot.
Author's reply
You're so mean! Legolas wasn't laughing. But then, I guess he did kind of bring his troubles on himself. He does need more of his father's time. It's really too bad. I think Thranduil does the best he can, and Ithilden and Eilian fill some of the void, but Legolas would just love to have the normal kind of life that Annael has.
I thought Alfirin would be embarrassed at calling Ithilden by name too. I thought maybe she daydreamed about him using his name and then it just slipped out. She probably doesn't even know she said it.
I like Maltanaur too. He's a wise old warrior. Eilian is lucky to have him as a protector.
Sofia
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Wow. Thranduil was really, really furious. And that was an impressive rescue.
Nothing like a father-son moment. :) Great story. Loved it.
-sofia
Author's reply
Really, really furious captures the situation exactly! Thranduil was most furious at the men who were selling the herb and were threatening his sons, but was pretty unhappy with Legolas too. And when Legolas told Eilian he was lucky Legolas was there, that just pushed Adar right over the edge.
But Thranduil also was good with each of his sons, and their mutual love was still there. :-)
Duchess
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Fantastic! I was worried there for a second, but see I shouldn't have been. *vbg*
I'm soooo glad Hiolith is getting the help he needs too. *happy sigh*
As usual, you have done an outstanding job and I love it, recommending it be read by my friends. :):):)
Author's reply
Thank you, Duchess. Legolas probably scared the wits out of you like he did out of Thranduil. :-)
Hiolith is an interesting character. I thought he needed to be drawn back into the community, and Maltanaur is a tough, wise old bird who is just the one to support him while the healers help him get off the herb.
If you're recommending it, I'm loving it!
esamen
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
I so enjoyed reading every line of this story! So many wonderful moments! Here are a few of my favorites:
"Are you advising me to return to the battle?” Ithilden asked dryly.
Thranduil laughed. “I suppose I am.”
Oh, these two are wonderful together. I've been thinking a lot about Thranduil's and Ithilden's relationship to each other and to the woods. . . .that biological, organic relationship that is not a political, selfish kind of relationship that so many human kings and sons have demonstrated. As I remember some other moments in your stories, Ithilden has no problem providing silent, respectful backup to his father in official situations. Given their special magical relationship with Arda and the woods, I have a feeling that if their roles were suddenly reversed, Thranduil would have no problem playing second fiddle to Ithilden, either, because what each of them does is ultimately in service of the same goal. In some ways they seem almost "equal," although for the time being Thranduil is king and Ithilden is second. I know it's your story and not mine, but you have to admit you must be a pretty good story teller if you've got me thinking this deeply about it!
"I think I will go and look in on Legolas."
OH NO! DISASTER LOOMS! READ WHILE PEEKING THROUGH FINGERS!
“Left the palace?” Thranduil asked incredulously. Turgon nodded. In one lunge, Thranduil crossed the rest of the short distance to the bed, grasped a handful of Turgon’s tunic, and pulled him up onto his knees. “Where did he go?”
Whew. Admirable restraint, Thranduil, although you sure do look scary when you do that.
“Yes,” said a cold voice. “Let him go.” And if Rhon had not been holding him, Legolas’s legs would have given way beneath him when he saw Ithilden standing behind Sirard, with the point of his sword prodding the Man’s back.
Fantastic action writing. You visualized the scene perfectly. Love those deus ex machinas dropping in once in a while. What's a good fic for if not for these heart-stopping moments of glory?
"Thranduil smiled nastily at Rhon. “In that case, I will let you live,” he said, and Legolas saw Rhon sway slightly.
Mmmm, yes, Thranduil, I love it when you do that.
Legolas pulled away from him and grinned. He was safe; Eilian was safe; and Eilian was not taking dangwath. “You are lucky I was here,” he said cockily. And then he jumped and gasped as something hard struck him on the backside.
This had me rolling on the floor. "Cockily" !!!!!!!!!!! "Cockily"!!!!!!! Legolas, are you going to grow up pretty soon?
"Legolas suddenly felt overwhelmingly tired and tears prickled his eyes. “I was afraid for Eilian, and you and Ithilden just kept saying not to worry, and I thought you were not doing anything, so I thought I had to.” To his horror, his voice quavered, and immediately, his father was out of the chair and onto the edge of the bed, drawing him into an embrace."
Awwwww, daw . . . . love conquers all, again.
Do you ever think that this story is kind of like Bonanza, with Dad and Hoss and Adam and Little Joe? Maybe you ought to get an agent.
"Hiolith bit his lip, but Maltanaur saw, rose from his chair, sat on the edge of his bed, and took the now shuddering Hiolith in his arms. He began to rock slightly murmuring soothing words as he had done for his daughter when she was small, as he had done for Eilian when the shadow sickness had finally overwhelmed him, as others had done for him in those moments of his long life when grief had overcome him. This summer day would be long, but he had time. He would stay here as long as he was needed."
And something for the recovering sufferer in each of us. Nice job wrapping up all those loose ends with Eilian, Ithilden/Alfirin, and Hiolith. I'd review every scene but this email is already too long! I guess you get the point . . . fantastic story and I loved every line!
Hugs and congrats,
Esamen
Author's reply
I think you're right on about Thranduil and Ithilden. They are quite a lot alike in most ways, and particularly in their devotion to the realm. Also, I think the Ithilden has managed to establish himself as an adult in Thranduil's eyes and, even more importantly, in his own. He's able to separate himself from his father in a way that Thranduil actually approves of, as opposed to Eilian's more rebellious behavior.
I'll bet that once Turgon recovered, he thought of this as a wonderfully exciting experience. Not that he'd want to encounter Thranduil all the time, of course. That would cramp his style. Now I like scary Thranduil myself. I just don't want it aimed at me.
Legolas will grow up eventually, but he's the equivalent of 14, and my experience with 14 year old boys says that they can be inappropriately (and stupidly) cocky. I think it was that comment that pushed Thranduil over the edge.
Hiolith was an interesting character for me. He needed to be brought back into the community, I thought.
Dot
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
What a fantastic chapter. I loved every second of it. Thranduil is just amazing.
“Are you humoring me?” LOL. He sounds utterly appalled. I'm guessing Thranduil likes a good, tough chess match and does NOT appreciate anyone going easy on him. And you know, for some reason the image of these two playing chess together really tickled me... I wonder who usually wins?
Now, what courtier was brave enough to include Thranduil in gossip about his son?! I bet whoever it was won't be doing that again in a hurry. I thought Thranduil's 'advice' to his son was just right for Ithilden. He'd probably find it harder than Eilian or Legolas would to recover from embarrassing himself but he definitely wouldn't run away just because something is difficult.
Oh how I cringed when Thranduil decided to visit Legolas. I can't believe he grabbed Turgon by the tunic! I'd be petrified! I suspect that it will make little difference to Turgon, though. Besides, it actually isn't his fault at all this time. He'd have gone away if the guards hadn't allowed him in and Legolas is the one who disobeyed Thranduil. Not that Thranduil will care how involved Turgon is - involved at all is likely to be enough to have another black mark against him in the king's book. Oh, and that poor guard...
I'm so glad Thranduil decided that he and Ithilden would go and find Legolas. It wouldn't have been half as interesting if he had allowed Ithilden to organise a patrol. I had to laugh at Turgon trying to leave - did he really think he could just go home now?!
Poor Legolas seems to have only completely grasped how dangerous the situation is when Maltanaur tells him he needs to be free to use his weapon. I like the way he completely relies on Eilian's performance rather than anything Maltanaur says to know whether or not he's been told the truth of the situation. I thought it was a nice touch that it's only Eilian's scorn for his family that truly makes Legolas see that he's acting. How very convincing he is too. "I’ve seen the king’s son. He has a stick shoved permanently up his arse.” Oh, daw, that's hilarious. The funniest thing is that Eilian and Legolas both realise immediately that it's Ithilden he's talking about.
I don't know whether to think that Legolas was brave or stupid. But whichever, there's no doubt that he loves his brother. I know Maltanaur couldn't really do much because of their positions but I get the impression that Legolas hasn't exactly decided to fully trust him yet.
"...he saw Ithilden standing behind Sirard, with the point of his sword prodding the Man’s back." Guess he heard that "stick up his arse" comment, then...
I like that Thranduil attempts to be as fair as he can with Bierd. Bierd seems to genuinely understand that some people need this herb to ease their suffering. When he explains that “Not everyone can do as the healers ask" it seems to have helped Thranduil see how hard it is for Hiolith and what it must have cost him to agree to participate in Eilian's plan. I'm so glad he won't lock him up. Not that I ever actually thought he would;-)
Thranduil whacked Legolas in the backside! I know that Thranduil was frustrated, angry and frightened but it still made me laugh... If Legolas had any sense he wouldn't have acted so cockily but then, I guess relief will do that to a person.
I thought it was really touching that Thranduil allows Legolas to lie down and covers him with the blankets. Thranduil seems to have taken it for granted that Legolas would realise that he would never ignore his sons if he thought they were in trouble, but obviously this is why Legolas was so shocked and upset by his and Ithilden's behaviour. I thought both Thranduil and Legolas did a fairly good job of explaining how they saw the situation. I take it that Thranduil isn't about to suddenly start telling Legolas "things like Annael’s adar tells him.” He clearly wants to keep this son sheltered a little longer even when it's increasingly obvious that he can't. I suppose though that I have to allow for the fact that he's feeling his way a little with this son as a single parent. I'm still grinning at how satisfied the two of them are that Thranduil frightened Turgon.
I can't tell you how happy it makes me to see Eilian in such good spirits. At least he finally has a chance to allow himself to recover. How lovely that Thranduil sent his breakfast to his room! “I had thought I might go and visit a friend.” I love the way Thranduil presumes it's a 'she'. I'm trying to place this story in your timeline. Is Celuwen not gone to the settlement? If she's around she wasn't very supportive. Of course, Eilian has many other 'friends' too. "Ithilden is making sure the truth is spread as widely as possible, but I think it best that everyone has a chance to see you walking with me while I look approving." I just love how aware Thranduil is of himself. He never ceases to amaze me either. God, it's just so wonderful to think that he does this for his son when he knows his reputation has taken a bit of a battering. Or reinforcing, depending on what people thought of Eilian in the first place, I suppose.
“Think nothing of it, Ithilden.” Yes! Yes! We have progress! Bet she was embarrassed when she realised what she said, though... Is this before 'See the Stars'? Because isn't Ithilden still afraid she likes Penntalion in that? Crikey, if Thranduil is frustrated at this stage of their relationship, he must be cracking up by the time they become betrothed.
The ending was perfect. Maltanaur really seems to regret allowing Hiolith get to this stage. And what strength of character Hiolith has. I hope he gets well - I'm so glad he has the selfless Maltanaur by his side. Clearly more people than Eilian are lucky to have him.
I'm really looking forward to re-reading this story all in one go. It was very cleverly written and I enjoyed it all the way. :-)
Author's reply
I think Thranduil would be insulted if he thought someone was going easy on him in a chess match, duel, whatever. Actually, which one of them wins most often is a good question. I'm wondering if maybe Thranduil's impatience does him in sometimes. It must have been a shock to him the first time Ithilden beat him though.
Ithilden is a pretty determined, self-confident guy so this situation is very disturbing to him. He's used to being in control. This story is set before "See the Stars," which is why I had to keep the romance uncertain, because in that story, as you say, he still thinks she might like Penntalion. Fitting things into my own time line is hard sometimes because I wind up boxing myself in.
Once Turgon recovered, he probably thought this was the most interesting thing that has happened in a long time. I doubt if he'd want to trade parents with Legolas, but then he had probably already concluded that. And the very thought would make Thranduil moan.
Legolas did focus on Eilian. It's Eilian he trusts, not Maltanaur. With a rather wishful thinking kind of reasoning, he's decided this is all Maltanaur's fault, after all. And I'm afraid neither Eilian nor Legolas had any trouble recognizing the description of Ithilden. They are both ticked that an outsider use it, but they recognized it!
I think Legolas's cockiness was the last straw for Thranduil. He hears that comment and he just sees red. But then, he does try to grope to some sort of understanding with Legolas once they get home. He has this perceptive, sensitive kid who needs to understand why things are the way they are. This is not Ithilden, and it's not Eilian. I think he misses naneth.
Celuwen has gone to the settlement. Eilian is just passing time until she comes to her senses and decides to bond with him. Seeing other maidens is sure to make that happen faster! I think Thranduil was probably cringing at the damage to Eilian's reputation all the way along and planning to do repairs as soon as he could.
Maltanaur is wonderful.
Nilmandra
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
I think I missed the last chapter :( This has been one of the hardest stories for me to review, because I always worried I would give something away!
This was a hard story to make believable, but the end result is wonderful and it was an entertaining read. Hiolith turned out as a well intentioned but in way over his head and in need of help elf, and I really liked Maltanaur. The same guy who would throw himself in front of an arrow for Eilian, will squash Legolas into the dirt if the kid endangered Eilian, and holds Hiolith in his arms as the elf goes through a planned withdrawal. What a great character.
Sorry to Ithilden and Alrifin for being the comic relief, but everyone must serve a purpose in a story :D.
Author's reply
I really, really valued your help on this one. Making this believable in ME was a struggle and I so much appreciate your helping me think that through. I also valued your experience in working with veterans with drug problems. Like Hiolith, I was in way over my head on that one.
Maltanaur knows you are eyeing Eilian with less than honorable intentions, so you just remember him tossing Legolas into the dirt and planting a knee between his shoulder blades!
Anonymous
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
“No,” Thranduil cut him off. “There is no time. We will have to make do with you and me, my guards and this fool.”
That is a hilarious line! I can just see Thranduil absolutely loosing his mind! And he actually swatted Legolas. I can definitely see that. Love all the conversations in this chapter. They are all perfect. Great story!
Author's reply
Thank you!
I tried to imagine myself as a parent whose 14 year old son had snuck off into the night to 'help' an undercover vice cop. The very thought made me faint! Thranduil was at his wits end and then Legolas tells Eilian that he is lucky Legolas was there. That did it for Adar!
jebb
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
A wonderful end to a wonderful story only one complaint!
It ended too soon for my liking.
Thranduil was magnificent and showed himself once again to be a marvellous father to all his sons
Good advice, praise and a little judicious chastisement as Eilian so rightly says 'Adar you never cease to amaze me'
I do hope we will see another story soon although I know you are now back at work
many thanks for a great tale so brilliantly told
Judy
Author's reply
I have no attention span, Judy! I had to end it!
Thranduil really does his best with three very different sons, but he misses their mother every day. I suspect he worries most about Eilian, but Legolas certainly drove him over the edge in this one.
Thank you for your kind words. I really do get excited every time a review arrives. I am completely pathetic on the topic!
Jay of Lasgalen
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
I'm sorry to see this end, but what a satisfying ending! Thank you, Daw. I'm glad to see Hiolith finally being cared for properly - knowing how you recently spring-cleaned extraneous OCs, I half-thought he may die heroically saving Eilian or Legolas. I liked the closing scene with Maltanaur, and would love to have read when Maltanaur comforted Eilian when the shadow hit him.
On the whole, Thanduil wasn't as mad as I thought - but I loved it when he found Turgon in Legolas's room! And he slapped Legolas on the backside, too! I go with the theory that elves would never use physical punishment on their children, but am not in the least surprised that he did this time. I would too.
Great story, Daw. (And BTW, I know exactly how a review makes you feel!)
Jay
Author's reply
I can't seem to stop myself from spawning OCs. Hiolith was just interesting to me once I got going on him. I could imagine all this backstory for him that I didn't have space to use and that no one else would probably care as much about anyway. And Maltanaur too is growing on me as a character. *I* would like to read about him comforting Eilian!
I think Thranduil took a lot of his anger out on the Men. Eilian once told Legolas that Thranduil could be pushed to hit him if he was concerned about his safety and could think of no other means to stop him from doing something. I think Legolas just pushed too hard here and then actually boasted to Eilian that he was lucky Legolas was there. That was the last straw for Adar!
mistry89
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
This was such a wonderfully "full" story, naughty elflings, young love, plots, Shadow, Thranduil the Unexpected .... and the laugh I let out when he smacked Legolas with his sword! Two cats (having a nice post-prandial wash) were startled enough to leave ...
I particularly like it when there is a hint of former (or a precursor) or latter behaviour, and in this story, Bierd's concern for the young one suggests another possible explanation for Legolas's apparent ease (well, less than a son of Thranduil might demonstrate!) in accepting travelling with such a motely crew on the quest.
Thank you very much (and I'm off to read Nilmandra's Thranduil the less than accomplished lover story - thanks for the rec!)
Author's reply
I love a reader who really does laugh out loud!
One of the things I like about writing these pre-quest tales is that we know what Legolas's future will be, even though none of the characters knows. So we can see Legolas moving toward that future, which might not be the one his family would choose for him, even though they have to be proud of him for choosing it. The values they teach him lead him to go where they don't want him to go, and I love the poignancy of that.
Nilmandra also wrote a lovely, sexy Thranduil story called "Eilian's Begetting Day." It's here on SoA too.
Rose Sared
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
You left me with tears in my eyes in sympathy for that poor sad Hiolith. Lovely story, thanks so much for the entertainment!
Rose
Author's reply
Thank you, Rose. In writing this, I was interested in the concept of community and we all owe to one another. I think that's a question that comes up for Legolas when he decided to go on the quest rather than return home, so I was interested in the attitude toward it that one might see in the Wood-elves.
Nymh
· 25 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Another ridiculously entertaining story. How do you crank these out so quickly (and consistently), woman?
I was amused by, and could so clearly see, Turgon's 'fascinated dismay'. The kid's remarkably lucky to have walked away intact. As is The Brat! Love him taking credit for rescuing the situation. How like a little boy. ;) And Eilian just grows more and more endearing with every story, Daw. I desperately want to mother him. Also, I think giving him an innate acting ability meshes beautifully with his character.
I would have liked to have seen a bit more of an encounter/brawl with the men, before the rescuers arrived. However, I love it anytime (your) Thranduil goes icily protective of his cubs. He'll 'let' the man live. Heh heh heh.
Thanks, and looking forward to reading whatever next strikes your fancy.
Author's reply
Thank you, Nymn. I entertain myself by writing these stories so I'm glad someone else is entertained too.
Thranduil didn't have time to give Turgon the full, kingly display of wrath, for which Turgon should thank his lucky stars. Still, I expect he found it interesting to see Thranduil so worked up. Legolas should have kept his mouth shut once his father arrived. Thranduil was already teetering on the edge of fury and Legolas pushed him over.
I am very fond of Eilian, but I'm not sure that what I feel for him is motherly. :-)
Justafan
· 25 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Wow, I loved this story! I love how Legolas felt that he had to protect Eilian, not a situation that he usually has to deal with and I loved how Turgon and Legolas decided to switch places. Thanks for writing this! You're a superb writer and I hope you continue to write more.
Author's reply
Thank you, Justafan. You're making me blush!
Legolas was slippery and resourceful when it came to protecting someone he loved, just the kind of person t grow into Legolas of the Fellowship.
Karri
· 25 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Oh, and thanks for taking on the "Mirkwood Vice" challenge. I am thrilled that is spawned such a terrific story. :-D
Author's reply
You are most welcome, Karri. As I say below, thank you for suggesting it. It was interesting to try to fit it into ME and not just transfer what we see around us to this other setting.
French Pony
· 25 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Well, good. Thranduil has learned something out of all this mess. He can be a hard-headed old codger sometimes, and he does have to learn parenting all over again with each child, since they're so different. This time around, he's got a bright, sensitive kid who needs to be told the truth and who needs to be trusted. I think it's probably important to Legolas to have his father's confidence, and even though he's not good at deception, I think he has enough of a sense of proportion that he would have been able to deal well with this scenario had Thranduil been honest with him from the start.
There's a quote from Don Nigro's play Mariner that seems to sum up this situation fairly effectively. In response to the question, "You would really trust anything of value to a man like that?" the answer is, "Something of small to moderate value I might not trust with him, for he's not interested in such things, and might well lose them. Something of great value, maybe."
Fourteen years on, I'm glad my parents sat down and told me the whole truth about marijuana and other less savory drugs, right after I started getting the state-mandated anti-drug propaganda in class. I appreciated the honesty, and the fact that they discussed the benefits as well as the drawbacks to the drugs, the economic factors that go into prohibition, and that they exposed some of the outright lies that the anti-drug educators told.
Ooh, that guard at Legolas's room is not going to be a happy guard. Turgon had such a wonderful cameo in this chapter. I'm sure he had no clue just how angry everyone was, and it was the single most interesting evening of his (admittedly short) life.
“That’s a lie,” Sirard sneered. “I’ve seen the king’s son. He has a stick shoved permanently up his arse.”
Point Sirard, Ithilden to serve.
“Are you hurt, Legolas?” Thranduil asked.
“No.”
Thranduil smiled nastily at Rhon. “In that case, I will let you live,” he said. . .
And that, right there, is Thranduil at his finest. It's why I like him. Someday, I hope to be just as badass.
Author's reply
"a bright, sensitive kid who needs to be told the truth and who needs to be trusted" -- love this description of Legolas! And the quote catches something important about him too. He would never have harmed Eilian if he could help it.
I think Thranduil is learning parenting not just because each child is different (although there's certainly that - what worked with Ithilden would not worked with Eilian, and Legolas is not his wilder older brother), but also because with Legolas he's doing things his wife did with the older two. And Thranduil is very busy after all. So I think he did screw up in not telling Legolas, but I give him a pass anyway.
Do you suppose Ithilden took special satisfaction in digging his sword into Sirard's ribs after that little comment? LOL
And oh yes. Do not cross the Elvenking, especially where his sons are concerned.
Karri
· 25 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Legolas got off fairly easy with his ada, but that is fitting, I think, as his ada's lack of communication helped instigate this bit of miscreant behavior. I am glad Thranduil is a wise enough ada to realize it. I am also relieved that Legolas’s faith in Eilian was restored in the end – I think Eilian really need his little brother unconditional acceptance (which will get strained soon enough when Legolas becomes a warrior and Eilian his captain.)
Thranduil’s pep talk to Ithildin was another skillful bit of parenting. Go, ada! ;-) (I agree with both and like Alfirin, as well. She and Ithildin are fine match!)
Author's reply
Thranduil is trying to understand Legolas. He really misses his wife, I think. This would never have happened had she still been alive. And you are so right about Eilian needing Legolas's uncritical love. I had trouble making Legolas criticize Eilian even when he thought Eilian was using the herb. He had to decide it was all Maltanaur's fault!
Thank you for the challenge, Karri. I enjoyed it.
Levade
· 25 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
Do you know that you, more than any other author, have (grudgingly) convinced me that Thranduil might not be all that bad. Mind you I still don't care much for him, except for your version, but my opinions are always a work in progress and so they can change.
I think he reminds me far too much of my own Papa, whom I adore, but was so strict it's still quite annoying. *g*
This family you've introduced us to has grown on me, and I feel as if I know them. I find I care a great deal for them, and always eagerly await what happens next.
And you're right; Eilian *could* easily steal the entire thing. Heh...he's too much like Glorfindel! Don't suppose they ever met..oh yes...in that one story. Hmm. Sad to see it end, but I know you're busier now...still can't wait for more!
Author's reply
I'm not sure I would have wanted Thranduil as a father. Frankly, he's a little intimidating. I think he'd have been better off with his wife still around. But he does love his kids (which is what your annoying Papa probably says too :-)).
Now Glorfindel is a real show stealer, in my opinion. Nothing at all to object to there!
Manderly
· 25 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
The end already? The reader in me screams for more!
That was a great chapter, very exciting yet humerous. The best line has to be "a stick shoved permanently up his arse". I wonder what Ithilden would say if he finds out how others (albeit Men) see him. And Eilian's immediate response declaring that to be his brother had me laughing too.
Poor Legolas, so cluelessly yet endearingly brave. Though I am definitely on his side this time. Thranduil should have told him the truth as he is well aware of the deep bond between Eilian and Legolas. I think Thranduil has come to that realization as well after that little smack on the butt.
Do you suppose Thranduil has instilled some fear in Turgon? Nah, I don't think the word fear exists in Turgon's dictionary. Keeping him at home for a year or so sounds like a good plan, but I doubt Turgon's parents are capable of such discipline.
And Eilian is getting better, thank goodness and will be parading before the warriors with his adar looking on approvingly. Thranduil is one cunning elf!
Thank you for such a wonderful story! (More, please?)
Author's reply
LOL. You are so mean about poor Ithilden! I guess Eilian does recognize him pretty readily. I don't think Ithilden gives a hoot what Men think about him. He's a little too much like his father to care.
Most readers seem to feel that Thranduil should have told Legolas more and I have to agree. We'll see if the king remembers that.
Turgon was probably out running around almost immediately. He had an interesting evening though.
And Eilian is getting back to normal. I'm so glad.
I'm glad you liked it, Manderly.
Ms. Whatsit
· 25 August 2004
· Chapter 7: Rescue
--for he knew with an absolute certainly that Eilian was pretending.
It should be "certainty," no?
Thranduil notices far too much about Ithilden's love life. He should pretend to be a bit more ignorant, I think. Ideally he needs to learn how to give advice about Ithilden's love life without betraying that he knows anything about said love life--tough but possible. I've done it to people :P.
Heh. I was anticipating that Turgon-Thranduil scene.
Poor guard. I feel almost as bad for him as I did for Galion in The Hobbit.
Legolas was very brave and I confess I'm on his side. Thranduil should have told him, and shouldn't have been surprised when keeping Legolas in ignorance led to trouble. I also liked how Legolas knew Eilian was pretending when he started being contemptuous of Ithilden. ("Stick permanently shoved up his arse?" Cruel but accurate.)
And Thranduil plays matchmaker for Eilian, too! Or at least gives him back his social status. What a great Elven-king.
I'm glad that Hiolith was treated compassionately and I'm also glad that Alfirin called Ithilden by name. Finally! I thought those two stuffy people would keep "mistress"-ing and "my lord"-ing each other till hell froze over.
Author's reply
Yes, 'certainty.' I changed it. Thank you. (How do I miss these?)
You think Thranduil needs to be more sly with Ithilden? That's possible! He tends to tell his kids what to do pretty directly, although he does let Ithilden alone more than the other two. Of course, I don't know how you give advice to someone who seems to incur disaster every time he goes near the maiden he's interested in. ;-)
LOL. Actually, I think I was mean to Ithilden in general in this story ("stick permanently shoved up his arse" for instance?). But Legolas knew that Eilian would never talk that way about Ithilden, even if he has private moments of exasperation.
Thank you for the nice review, Ms. Whatsit. I'm glad you enjoyed the story.
Estel_Mi_Olor
· 25 August 2004
· Chapter 6: Taking Action
Cool! It's the BIG CONTRABAND DRUG TRAFFICKING MOMENT. But how sad that Legolas had to be a part of it! That is going to require a very long conversation afterwards. I do hope he stays quiet, though something tells me something is going to go wrong. I mean, it would be too simple for everything to turn out right, wouldn't it? :)
But you have to give Legolas some bonus points here. I mean the whole Turgon impersonation was really very intelligent. Being caught wasn't, but then it's not fair to put Legolas up against Maltanuar. I hope Maltanuar doesn't have to knock Legolas out or something. That would complicate matters.
I know how you feel-for me school starts Monday. I am not looking forward to it. Well good luck, and don't worry about getting the chapter out slowly-it will definetly be worth the wait!
Author's reply
Legolas just couldn't stay home when he thought Eilian was in danger, and now he's decided that this is all Maltanaur's fault! Eilian is going to be ticked off if Legolas is bruised, but Maltanaur's main concern is Eilian. Of course, Maltanaur is in a difficult situation anyway, because he now has two of the king's sons on his hands!
erunyauve
· 24 August 2004
· Chapter 6: Taking Action
I can just imagine how furious Legolas would be at Maltanaur. And I see that Ithilden is getting a little gunshy - I hope Legolas gets to hear the story!
I feel quite sorry for the guard assigned to Legolas - I suspect he may be in for a rather long turn as messenger in the Woodland Realm. Of course, it would have been more sensible to simply tell Legolas the truth, but then, Thranduil might have done so if Legolas had told the truth.
Author's reply
Legolas has decided that this is all Maltanaur's fault. Eilian is innocent!
I think Ithilden does need a little encouragement, and I'm not sure that repeating the story to Legolas would provide that. :-)
You're probably right about how damaging it was for Thranduil and Legolas to withhold information from one another. They were just at such cross purposes.
White Wolf
· 24 August 2004
· Chapter 6: Taking Action
Ah, Legolas. Legolas. Legolas. Bless his heart. I knew he would find a way to escape once he heard Maltanaur talking to Eilian about going to the cottage. Turgon showed up at the right time for Legolas and the wrong time for him. Thranduil will eat him alive.
I know Eilian is not happy to see Legolas close to danger. Maybe I'm a sadist, but I laughed, when Legolas kicked Maltanaur. Shame on me. :o)
Author's reply
Legolas is so well-intentioned and he is in such big trouble. And Turgon is always happy to help out!
Poor Maltanaur. He already has the considerably difficult task of keeping Eilian safe and now he has Thranduil's youngest on his hands. And that youngest son is fighting mad!