The Hunt by Manderly
Starlight and Moonlight · 9 April 2018 · Chapter 8: A New Understanding
Manderly, this is great! Your writing is simply fabulous. There is no other way to put it. There are very minimal errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation, and your plot development, character analysis, and POVs are superb!
Alfirin · 2 June 2005 · Chapter 8: A New Understanding
I just can't stop from reading your stories. My only complaint if it's even a complaint is that I can't STOP from reading your stories! =) Once again, a great story this is. I can't wait for more. From your replies, I see that you're in the process of finishing one? I do hope it will be soon! And though I'm not one for romance stories and what not, I would think it would be rather interesting to see how Tavaro react to certain "attentions" from the elf-maidens. I just think it would be cause for much laughter as I can just picture him being at a loss for words (quite a feat for him too). I do hope your stories will also continue with the timeframe after "An Act of Betrayal". I would like to see how Legolas fares as an official warrior under the commands of Feren and Tavaro. All in all...I love your stories and cant' wait for more.
Author's reply
Thank you again for such a nice review. I am glad that you are enjoying the stories. As you can see, I am not a very prolific writer so I don't that many stories to my name. I really admire writers who can spin out stories one after another. I am near the end of the story that I am currently working on, but I am going out of town for the next couple of weeks, but will probably start posting the story as soon as I get back. And you will be happy to know that the timeline of this new story is after An Act of Betrayal and tells of Legolas' experience as a new warrior. I figure I have to at least write one story about our dear elf all grown up and as you have put it, being an "official warrior". Thanks again!
daw the minstrel · 10 January 2005 · Chapter 8: A New Understanding
I just got back from out of town to find this final chapter. I like the way you've developed our feel for the three older brothers. They each have a distinct personality now. And Thranduil was wonderfully fatherly. Good story, Manderly.
Author's reply
Hope you had a good trip. When I am writing, I tend to concentrate quite a bit on the characters so I am glad that the brothers' personalities showed through. Yup, wouldn't mind having Thranduil for a father, but then again, maybe not. Thank you!
me · 7 January 2005 · Chapter 8: A New Understanding
I enjoyed this story. It was well written and very 3 dimensional. I hope you are able to write another soon--your Legolas and his brothers are great. Would you consider a story about Legolas's going off with the fellowship and his brothers' reactions to it? I look forward to whatever you decide to write next!
Author's reply
I am glad you enjoyed the story and especially glad that you liked Legolas and his brothers. I tend to concentrate on developing the characters more so than anything else when I am writing. I haven't considered writing about a Fellowship Legoolas and his family's reaction to his leaving, but I will definitely think on it. Thank you for reading and reviewing.
Wantanelf · 6 January 2005 · Chapter 8: A New Understanding
Thanks for another well written story of Legolas and his family. I have enjoyed all your stories and am always happy to see an new one. Sorry I didn't review until now. It's been a crazy few weeks but I always find time for great LOTR fiction somehow. I'll be watching for another story from you. Hope you have some more planned.
Author's reply
I am glad you enjoyed the story. Reviews are always welcome by me, no matter when they are sent so I thank you. I haven't got plans right now for another story but my mind is always searching for plots so hopefully I'll come up with one soon. Again, thanks for reading and reviewing.
Bodkin · 6 January 2005 · Chapter 8: A New Understanding
Poor Thranduil, having to parent this bunch of accident-prone warriors - Legolas is quite right:- "There is so much unexpected danger out there." Unfortunately, he worries about the exposure of others, but bounces back into failing to spot that he is just as (or in his current state of youth and inexperience, even more) vulnerable. I'm glad that Feren spotted that Legolas needs to hear of his approval. And that Legolas was able to talk seriously to his big brother about not needing to take the responsibility for the world on his shoulders. (He should listen to himself.) A lovely finish. I look forward to more tales from the wood about these four and their adar.
Author's reply
Being a mother myself, I don't envy Thranduil at all. I do enough worrying about my kids in an everyday type of environment, let alone having orcs, spiders and all sorts of other nasties to spice up things. It's funny how Legolas can worry about others and yet does not recognize that he himself is a major cause of concern for his family. But I guess it's all part of the young and their "it cannot happen to me" way of thinking. I think both Feren and Legolas can understand and appreciate each other a bit more after this little adventure. But then old habits die hard so I don't know how long this will last. Thank you very much for your reviews throughout this story. I too hope I will come up with another story soon.
Firnsarnien · 5 January 2005 · Chapter 8: A New Understanding
*gleefully rubs hands together* What a wonderfully angst/hurt/comfort-filled story! Another great one from you! I also cannot help myself from pointing out some truly brilliant lines: "Should you be up yet, Legolas?" Aldeon asked him worriedly as he scrutinized the younger elf's every move. "Your fever only broke but two days ago." This line alone speaks volumes for the love and protectiveness Aldeon (and Feren and Tavaro too) feel for Legolas. When I read this, my toes tingled with immense satisfaction! :) "I am fine, Aldeon. And if I have to stay in that bed one more day, my legs will not remember how to walk at all. How is your head? Do you still have headaches? And where are your crutches?" Legolas quipping back with this was great too! It was like a wonderful game of cat and mouse, watching them go back and forth, asking each other about their injuries! I could not stop laughing at this point. Here, Aldeon thought he'd have the upper hand with Leggy, but clearly Leggy was not going to let him! I loved it! LOLOLOL! "Go on, Aldeon, you have not asked the bratling about the wound on his leg yet," Tavaro said with a grin. "We may as well get the complete picture before we settle down to tending our hungry stomachs." OMG! And this one! They just have to make sure they inquire about every single boo boo Leggy got! Leave no stone unturned must be their motto when it comes to their little brother! LOL! Tavaro caught Legolas' eyes and winked again. "This porridge is very good indeed. I have not tasted such fine porridge in a long while. The cooks have truly outdone themselves this morning." LOL! If I'd been eating porridge at this moment, I would have spit it all out when I read this paragraph. What a wonderful and funny reference to the time Tavaro would eat Leggy's porridge when they were visiting Tavaro's friend! This was a treat to your readers! ;) The parting was a bit sad though, I always hate to see Leggy have to say goodbye to people he loves. And what's this foreboding thing? Unease? Hmmmmm, I truly hope you don't have any devious plans in the works for Leggy's poor brothers now. Do you? As long as the plans don't entail death, you'll do just fine! ;) And as always, I'm always saddened to see another one of your stories end. They always leave me thinking, "I sure hope she hurries up and writes another one!" So, on that note, hurry up with the next one, will ya? ;) :)
Author's reply
I really do love receiving your very detailed reviews! I think Legolas has learned a lot from his older brothers in playing their game of over-protectiveness. He's certainly had much experience at the receiving end of it and is not shy to dish it right back at them. I am sure the issue of porridge has been a long standing joke between Tavaro and Legolas. I can see Tavaro teasing Legolas about this for the eternity. Don't worry. I have no ominous plans for Legolas' brothers. It is just my way of showing how Legolas has come to realize the extent of danger that runs amok in his beloved woods. But whether he keeps this realization in mind the next time he dives headfirst into another one of his escapades is highly debatable. I always feel rather empty too when I fnish a story. As for the next one? I have nothing definite yet. I am totally envious of those writers who can come up with story after story. It takes me forever to work out a storyline and even then I worry constantly whether it follows a reasonable path or whether it is too contrived. I guess I really don't have much confidence in myself yet as a writer. Again, thank you so much for your consistent and fun to read reviews. They have been a great source of encouragement!
elliska · 5 January 2005 · Chapter 7: Help Arrives
Well I'm glad the older brothers finally found them so Legolas can have some help. I bet they lost it over the wolf fight though--and they were worried about his horse stunt earlier. That was nothing compared to everything else. No more chapters. Well it looks like I got through the worst of Legolas' trials for this story. Looking forward to the rest.
Author's reply
Yes, the calvary has finally arrived and Legolas can finally let go. And let go he did in this chapter. Can't blame the poor kid. He really has gone through a lot and probaby has gained new respect for wolves and other dangers of the forests. Again, thank you for your reviews!
elliska · 5 January 2005 · Chapter 6: Taking Charge
Poor Legolas. He is really struggling here but he is doing as well as any adult might have. He simply is not physically big enough to return Aldeon to their camp but the spirit is willing. Very angsty chapter.
Author's reply
No matter how hard he tries to be an adult, Legolas really is still just a child/adolescent. Some things are still beyond his capabilities. I think after this little escapade, all the brothers will see each other in a different light.
elliska · 5 January 2005 · Chapter 5: A Very Long Night
Legolas' fight with the wolves was very brave and scary. And Aldeon's reaction to it and to the aftermath was very well done. Poor exhausted Legolas. Off to the next chapter.
Author's reply
The two brothers must have been both scared witless for each other's safety and I think it is this mutual concern that saved them from the wolves in the end. Legolas is struggling but his determination is holding him up quite well in the circumstances.
elliska · 5 January 2005 · Chapter 4: Danger!
Wow. Scary. Legolas handled the emergency with his brother's injury well. And wolves too?! Yikes. The good thing about reading this late is that the next chapter is already posted.
Author's reply
Legolas really was quite brave, wasn't he? Too bad Feren was not around to witness this, but then if Feren was around, Legolas would have been instantly delegated to the sidelines and kept from harm.
elliska · 5 January 2005 · Chapter 3: The Challenge
I liked Legolas' conversation with his brother---they both make some good points that the other needs to understand. And I liked that Legolas decided not to kill the magnificent (sp?) deer.
Author's reply
Legolas is trying very hard to establish himself amongst his older and much more experienced brothers. He probably feels as much frustration in tryng to accomplish this as his brothers in their endless efforts to protect him. I did not have the heart to have that buck killed and I imagine Legolas would not either.
elliska · 5 January 2005 · Chapter 2: Keeping Watch
I swear I left a review for this chapter before I went on vacation but it's not here. I must not have clicked post before I closed the window. I was rushing. So sorry this is late. I liked Legolas' interaction with his brothers here, especially over his supposed recklessness--typical older brother reaction. I'm glad he got to keep a watch and I like the little touch that no one else slept. Again, typical older brothers and very sweet.
Author's reply
So you have access to the internet again? I saw your chain of reviews and I must thank you for each and every single one of them. This chapter was rather interesting to write and it gave me the chance to work on each brother's character. I didn't want the older brothers to come across as blindly overprotective.
lwarren · 4 January 2005 · Chapter 7: Help Arrives
Yessssss! *pumps fist* That whistle works every time! Finally, the big brothers are here and Legolas can calmly fall apart! He did good, tho', holding on as long as he did! I liked Feren's gentle handling of his little brother...he's an ok elf...just a little stiff!!!! ;-) I also enjoyed Feren and Tavaro's conversation as they began the ride home. First, more guilt to be dealt with, but they did so nicely between the two of them. Then, the discussion of Legolas and how Feren hopes he has learned the lesson that life is not all fun and adventure...but death lurks everywhere!! Tavaro's comeback was just right...he is good at getting Feren to lighten up just a little! Finally, the thought of Adar's reaction to heir and baby arriving in a rather damaged condition. Ha! Feren and Tavaro think that he'll be denied the hunting trip next year -- the elfling will be lucky to see the free world outside the palace walls for...oh....at least a century or two! LOL But my all time favorite line was when Tavaro notes that he hasn't seen the "bratling" so "compliant" and eager to be held in a long time. Awwwwwww, that was nice for Feren to hear that, especially when he bears the brunt of Legolas' displeasure when his older brother "smothers" him! Great chapter, and if I haven't told you so already, Manderly, I hope you have a very happy new year! linda
Author's reply
See, I told you your whistle might work. With those keen elvish hearing, I don't think they'll ever miss much. Feren has his soft side, when the need arises. He can see how traumatized Legolas is and is ready to dish all the TLC in his possession. Legolas knows that no matter how stiff Feren may be, big brother is always a good source of stability and protection. I think Feren and Tavaro balances each other, both on the battle field and on the home front. Tavaro keeps Feren from the state of all business and no fun and Feren keeps Tavaro grounded. How will Thranduil react? He will probably want to keep the elfling locked up like you said, but realistically, Legolas will get his way (as he always does). It's amazing what a little trauma can do to a stubborn little elfling. Big brother's arms probably never felt so good! And a very happy new year to you too and many thanks for your wonderful reviews!
lwarren · 4 January 2005 · Chapter 6: Taking Charge
The spirit is definitely willing, but the poor abused body has just about reached its limits of endurance. Such a painful chapter, and well written from both Aldeon's and Legolas' points of view. Bless their hearts, they really had a worry/guilt fest going between the two of them, didn't they? I think the most affecting part tho' was when Aldeon caught that expression that reminded him of Thranduil on his kid brother's face. Talk about surprised dismay! I think he was totally unprepared for seeing that grown-up look on the very face of the one he and his brothers had been trying to protect and shelter for years! Legolas' instinct for trouble/danger ("I don't feel safe") seems to be developing somewhat and I'm glad he insisted they move, if for no other reason than to cheat any wolves/spiders/orcs of an elf dinner! :-) Nice chapter, Manderly, and all I can say is, those brothers had best hurry before Legolas really hurts himself (more) trying to keep Aldeon in one piece! *mutters to self "where's an elf horn when ya need it?" and whistles for Tavaro and Feren* linda
Author's reply
A regular guilt fest, all right! These elves are just too eager soak up the guilt and take the blame for everything. I think even though Aldeon may be more open to accept Legolas as having capabilities of his own (as compared to how Feren feels), he isn't quite ready yet to accept an adult Legolas. Like you said, the instinct to protect the youngest is not something easily let go. Legolas will still be the baby in his family's eyes even when he grows old and wise. I think Legolas just wanted to get away from the entire nightmare scene where all the bad things happened. I don't blame him. Your whistle might just work!
Firnsarnien · 1 January 2005 · Chapter 7: Help Arrives
*sigh* What another great, wonderful angst-filled chappy! *another sigh* I just love it! ;) Wow! I loved the way Feren and Tavaro came to Legolas' and Aldeon's rescue. I had a feeling that once Legolas saw his other brothers, he would just fall apart essentially. And he had every right to, completely understandable of course. I was seriously worried how much longer he could hang on as injured as he was. And of course, I loved the way Feren and Tavaro tended their wounded brothers, especially Legolas. I have to wonder though, who is more seriously injured? It seems as though both Leggy and Aldeon are seriously hurt though in different ways. I can't wait to see what you've in store next! More wonderful angst I'm sure. :) My angst meter is still happy. ;) LOL
Author's reply
Legolas was probably more than glad to see his brothers showing up. Like you said, he wasn't in a state to take much more. Feren and Tavaro must both feel pretty horrified (and guilty) to see their brothers so battered. Legolas is still young and inexperienced no matter how adult he thinks he is. After going through all that he has, he's got every right to freak out completely once the rescuers arrive. I think the only thing that held him together was his concern for Aldeon. Feren and Tavaro are quite the capable pair, but then they have had centuries (millenia?) of experience in tending to injured warriors, I suppose. Aldeon and Legolas cannot be in better hands. Thanks for the review.
The Karenator · 31 December 2004 · Chapter 7: Help Arrives
Okay, I admit it, I skipped ahead to be sure that help arrived. Then I could settle down and enjoy the story. I was glad to see that the rescue party recognized what Legolas had accomplished and acknowledged that what he had done would have been a difficult task for any of them. Legolas finally letting go and letting his brothers comfort him was a nice, realistic touch. He had held up as long as he could. Once they get home and recover, I'm sure Adar will not only be relieved, but also more than a little put out. Sort of like the parent who pulls her child from in front of a speeding car and then spanks the kid. The parent is so relieved that she wants to be certain the kid never does anything so careless again, so she leaves a lasting impression on the kid's backside. Poor Thranduil, he'll age a century in a few minutes. Looking forward to the next chapter. Karen
Author's reply
So you are a skipper too? I also admit that I do that too though I try hard not to do it, but it really is hard sometimes. Legolas is still an inexperienced adolescent, no matter how hard he tries to be an adult and after going through such a harrowing experience, I thought it would be natural that he should cling to his brother for comfort. Once Thranduil's heart resumes a normal beat and after he redyes his grey hair, he will probably start thinking of ways to prevent the next hunting trip though none of the brothers can really be faulted for what happened. I really don't envy being a parent like Thranduil.
Bodkin · 31 December 2004 · Chapter 7: Help Arrives
Even at this point, Legolas is ready to try to defend his brother. What an elfling! It will be terribly unfair if Thranduil refuses to let him go on the next hunting trip - he has earned his place with this display of courage, good sense and fortitude. I'm glad the cavalry arrived, though. I don't think Legolas was really up to fighting any more opponents. I love the relationship shown between them - and the way that little brother is suddenly much happier to relax in their protective arms and let them take the strain. Feren is very brave at the thought of facing their adar. Let him stand at the front, I say.
Author's reply
Legolas really does take his responsibilities seriously, a characteristic which no doubt shows up time and time again in his later life. I think Thranduil, being the wise king and father, will recognize that and go easy on the elfling. Legolas is probably more than glad at this point to see the cavalry. He's probably even ready for his brothers to take over his breathing for him if it's possible. Feren is brave and being the responsible and disciplined elf that he is, he probably will stand at the front, shielding all his brothers. What an elf!
daw the minstrel · 31 December 2004 · Chapter 7: Help Arrives
Thank goodness for rescue! I don't think Legolas could have taken much more. Tavaro and Feren come across as competent and loving, and each with his own personality. I imagine Thranduil will be less than pleased though.
Author's reply
You are right, I don't think Legolas could have held up much longer. He's probably never been so glad to have his brothers fussing over him. As for Thranduil, he will not be pleased but I think he will find it hard to place blame on the brothers, though I doubt wolves will be on his list of favourite animals from now on.
lwarren · 30 December 2004 · Chapter 5: A Very Long Night
Is it safe to come out now? *looks around warily for author wielding dangerous pen/keyboard* Ok, Manderly...it's one thing for us to want a bite of the elf, but really.... What a fight! Thank heavens for that sudden burst of adrenalin when Aldeon yelled at him! You did a very good job with the battle, Manderly...I am very jealous! :-) Now, both elves are in dire straights - Aldeon with the mother of all headaches and can't walk - Legolas with two very nasty bites and he's feeling increasingly frightened that he might not be able to get his brother and himself through this. I do believe our elfling is discovering that all that brotherly concern for his safety would be very welcome right now...and he would love a little help with this difficult situation. Still, he has done a good job for an inexperienced youngster, and I loved the way you so definitely communicated his utter determination that those wolves were NOT going to get to Aldeon! Wonderful chapter...where is the elven search and rescue team, btw? :-) linda
Author's reply
Oooh, I like that! Taking a bite out of the elf! How come I never think of these things and I am writing the story? (gives a good smack to the head). I think the fear that the brothers have for each's safety was what really saved them both at the end. Had they not both yelled, the wolves would have had quite a feast. Thank you for your kind words aobut the battle. For some reason, while I was writing that part, the scenes were flashing through my mind like some home video and I was literally scrambling trying to catch it all in words. You are right, Legolas is ready for some heavy duty over-protective coddling from his brothers right now but said brothers are naturally nowhere in sight when they are needed. I think Legolas has more than proven himself and those brothers should really show up now.
lwarren · 30 December 2004 · Chapter 4: Danger!
"It happened in an instant." See? I knew it! You were being entirely too nice to our elves! Valar, Manderly! A landslide, and then wolves? Eight wolves? *clears throat noisily* Ummm, you DO remember that Aldeon is trapped and Legolas is on his own...what am I saying, of course you do! LOTS OF TENSION HERE...LOTS AND LOTS. *deep breath* Weeeelll, Legolas seems to be holding up, aside from a few moments of panic when thinking first that Aldeon might be dead...then, that he had hurt his brother worse trying to help. Now, if he can just keep himself and big brother from becoming wolf appetizers.... Great chapter, Manderly...what is with you people and these cliffies? (lol)....I'm off for the next so I can see Legolas kick some wolf b--- uh, hiney! :-) linda (You did a wonderful job here of catching Legolas' feelings of horror, fear, determination...If I could have thought straight after all that, I would've mentioned it sooner...see, you've scrambled what little brain I had left! *g*)
Author's reply
Wolf appetizers?! I've never thought of it that way, but it seems pretty obvious now that you have mentioned it. After giving those elves three whole chapters of peace and quiet, I thought it was high time that I show them some excitement. I mean, did they really think they were going to leave that mountain unscathed? Legolas is doing quite well, considering what he's up against. I suppose the innate warrior instincts are kicking into full gear, but another part of him must be totally freaking out. It's probably good in building up character, or something.
lwarren · 30 December 2004 · Chapter 3: The Challenge
My grandparents lived fairly close to a wildlife preserve which sheltered large and varying populations of deer - and there is nothing more majestic and breath-stealing than a buck fully antlered and feeling "kingly"! Your description of the stag Legolas and Aldeon finally caught up with perfectly captured the "king of the forest" feeling these incredible creatures give when you look at them. And for Legolas to let him go, such an in-character thing for him to do, and I'm glad he realized the win was not as important as he thought! The conversation at the beginning of the chapter was also very much in-character for the brothers, with Tavaro suggesting the contest, Feren worrying and, in the process, managing to "smother" the elfling, and Aldeon stepping in to smooth ruffled feathers again! :-) I loved the little moment of connection between Aldeon and Feren - they truly have more in common than Feren realizes, I think. Great chapter (and I can finally catch up reviewing...I thought Christmas vacation was supposed to be a time of rest and relaxation and revelry!!!! HA!!!) I think things have been awfully quiet so far, Manderly...I sense the author building up for some elf anguish...or at least a little pain! LOL! Indeed, I held my breath the whole time those 2 were making their way up the side of that mountain...hill...incline??? *vbg*) linda
Author's reply
I remember catching sight of some very majestic bucks in the Canadian Rockies. Though it's been many years since I have been in the mountains, the memory of those "kingly" creatures are still very clear in my mind. They are truly beautiful with their "above it all" carriage. If a mere mortal such as myself can be so taken by them, I can only imagine how a wood elf would react to them. I think all the brothers share more traits than they realize themselves and Aldeon, being the oldest, probably sees this more clearly than the others (I like the idea of wisdom growing with the years - makes me feel very wise!). Yes, things are too quiet - other readers have told me as much and are fearing the worst. They all know that it can't last. And of course, readers are always right!
Firnsarnien · 27 December 2004 · Chapter 6: Taking Charge
You're getting better you know? Truly! That cliffy has to be one of your best! :P Horrible one, I might add! Good, but Horrible! :P:P:P:P Oooh, my angst meter was at it's peak! LOL Leggy's owies finally caught up with him. Poor him! And Aldeon, he's in pretty bad shape! I sure hope Tavaro and Feren find them soon! Things are looking bleaker and bleaker by the minute! The last thing we need now is for those horrid wolves to show up again. You know, attracted by the scent of blood and all. Of course, that would make for a very interesting scene you know. I can think of lots of things that could happen should the wolves return! Oooh, the possiblities are endless! LOL Well, whatever happens, I'm sure you'll do great at satisfying this Leggy angst hound! LOL You always do! *sigh* ;) BTW...I loved how Leggy is so selfless, as usual. Ignoring his own injuries to help Aldeon is so typical Leggy. Of course, Aldeon, and his other brothers, would readily ignore their own injuries as well, to help Leggy. *sigh* I just love the relationship these four brothers share. So beautiful. :) *sigh* ;) Well, I'm off to await the next chappy! Please don't let it be too long. Horrid place you left us dangling at!
Author's reply
Thank you, as always. I keep telling myself not to do these cliffhangers as I find them truly frustrating as a reader myself, but these fingers just won't listen to me. They stop typing of their own accord (I swear! LOL). I am glad this chapter was so satisfying for your angst meter. It was pretty brutal, I must admit and I even felt bad about putting our elf through so much but hey Legolas needed to build up his character for that eventual adventure with the fellowship. Might as well put him through the wringer now so that he can be completely unscathed and unblemished when the real test comes. I hope I won't keep you waiting for too long for the next chapter. I am still trying to decide which direction to take this story from this point on. Like you said, the possibilities are endless.
The Karenator · 27 December 2004 · Chapter 6: Taking Charge
Poor kid! What a mess. I liked the part where Aldeon thought how much of their father he saw suddenly in Legolas. That must have been a surprise. Yep, the little scamp is growing up. Aldeon can certainly be proud of the responsibility and bravery his little brother has shown. Another tense chapter. I'm looking forward to finding out what happens. Soon, I hope. :>)
Author's reply
Poor kid indeed. Even I am beginning to think I'm being too hard on the poor elf. I am glad you liked the part of Aldeon's reaction to seeing their father in Legolas. Like I said to Daw, even though Aldeon must be proud of all that Legolas has done, he's probably not quite ready to see Legolas as an adult yet, especially one with traits of their formidable father. I am working on the next chapter so hopefully it will be up soon.
daw the minstrel · 27 December 2004 · Chapter 6: Taking Charge
I think what I liked best in this chapter is Aldeon's reaction to Legolas's severity. He catches a glimpse of what adult Legolas will be like and it startles him. But then in the end, Legolas is not yet an adult. He's a hurt kid and he can't quite manage to do what he knows needs to be done. :-(
Author's reply
I am glad you picked up on Aldeon's reaction. I think in spite of his pride in his little brother's progress to maturity, Aldeon still sees Legolas as a child who needs adult protection. He isn't ready for an adult Legolas. I can't recall the number of times that I am startled by my own daughter's unexpected spurts of maturity and I find my self scrambling to cope with it so I can identify with how Aldeon is feeling. But like you said, Legolas is a kid in the end and still needs adult guidance and help.