It was fun to see Ithilden and Legolas interact in this story. Ithilden is so much older he basically sees Legolas like his kid instead of his brother. Ithilden and Alfrain both sort of solidify their feelings for each other through the way they interact with, and care about Legolas. Super sweet!
When Turgon appears all I could think about was how little time he has left to live. Yikes! When he sees Legolas running away from the training fields, and offers to go fishing with him...I can see why Legolas appreciated his companionship. Turgon is a troublemaker, but he also cares and is a loyal friend. That was a nice moment for their friendship.
I enjoyed the scene with the married servant complaining about her husband while serving dinner. And then they leave the room and the door closes before the husband says “That was an utterly disgraceful display!” haha. I think I would have been laughing too! And Thranduil's like "Control yourself Legolas". How amusing. It turned out to be a good thing though, because it gave Alfrain ideas about how she could fit into the family, and things she could contribute to making the house run smoother.
I loved seeing Ithilden spring to action when the tree fell on Legolas! He is such a steady, calm force. He knew exactly what to do with cutting the clothing to see the wound and checking for broken bones. And Legolas just turns his face right into his big brother's shoulder when he is picked up, aw!!
Author's reply
Hi, Asms2!
Alfirin agrees with you completely. When she sees Ithilden caring for Legolas, she's a goner and she knows it. Of course, she was mostly a goner anyway at that point.
Writing about Turgon in this story was painful because I knew he had only a few weeks left to live and that's a dreadful thought. He's totally loyal to his friends, because he needs that steadiness, and it's to his credit that he chooses Legolas and Annael. He's a kid with so much potential, and if he'd had time to grow up, he'd have been just another wild Wood-elf. Eventually I wrote about Legolas meeting him again in the Undying Lands, and then I felt better.
I think Legolas feels utterly safe with Ithilden, not always happy but safe!
Glad you enjoyed the story.
daw
endorearwen
· 21 August 2013
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Sigh, grin, oh so happy feelings! Simply perfect, Daw - as always! I can never get enough Ithilden... I loved the Freudian slip that forced the revelation of feelings between he and Alfirin (take her time? Give me a break!) I thoroughly enjoyed the argument too - I stand solidly with her mother on this one, I'm so glad she proved she was stronger than him! I also like the way Alfirin wants to bring a little softness into the world of all these men - long overdue if you ask me!
I'm really impressed with how you examined Legolas' continuing adjustment to his act of bravery. He is maturing so much from story to story and it is easy to see how each of these experiences you are putting him through will ultimately affect his character. As for the incident involving Galelas, he had it coming! Legolas' anger was just and the punishment inflicted should have been a lot worse on this wretched character!
I think Thranduil and Ithilden may finally be realizing Legolas is no longer a youngling! It will be interesting to see how Thranduil deals with Alfirin if she finds herself needing to speak her mind about the way Legolas is being raised. I think she might be just the right one to win an argument with the King! ;-) I am also keen to see how Legolas feels when a feminine influence begins to touch his world. It will certainly be a new and strange experience for him. Definitely looking forward to reading more... In the meantime, I'm going to continue daydreaming about being in Alfirin's place!
Author's reply
And Ithilden is happily looking forward to having Alfirin "bed" him a "good night" one of these days. I think she was looking too long at Ithilden's thighs. :-)
That slip grew out of a typo I made writing a different story. I looked at it, laughed, and decided to save it for the right occasion. This was it. Her mother certainly knew which was the wind was blowing though.
My beta gave me some rules for this story--no orcs, bad men, wargs, anything. I was supposed to be concentrating on feelins, which I tended to slide over. I thought I would go crazy. Then I realized I could drop a tree on Legolas, so I felt better.
erunyauve
· 29 June 2006
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
The thought process Alfirin goes through in her decision to bond with Ithilden shows just how suited she is to take on the duties of a queen. She doesn't wander into this unprepared - she knows that this is more than a bonding between two elves.
Poor Legolas - he's such a good kid (though I loved Ithilden's observation that he had a tendency to 'wander'). In a lot of ways, he's much like Ithilden, but not quite as headstrong - he's very much a youngest child.
Author's reply
Thanks, Erunyauve. I think Alfirin and Ithilden are well matched. They're both rational people, but they're also passionate about one another, and Alfirin can't keep herself from saying yes.
Legolas is suffering here. But the one I feel bad about is Turgon, who has only a few more weeks to live.
pipinheart
· 2 October 2005
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Nice ending to this one...Legolas is back on his feet, and is starting at knife's again with his father...and Ithilden and Alfirin are going to bind to each other,they are suited to one another...
Author's reply
I'm so glad you liked it. This one ended on a rosy note, with everyone having high hopes for the future.
pipinheart
· 2 October 2005
· Chapter 4: Time Away
Alfirin has a temper... she wouldn't back down to Ithilden, and he can be stubron at times... I think they'd be a good match
Author's reply
You think like Thranduil and Alfirin's mother! They think these two would be a good match too. Ithilden needs someone as strong as he is, or he'd walk all over her.
pipinheart
· 2 October 2005
· Chapter 3: Take Your Time
Maybe Ithildren can change Alfirin mind, he has told her he loves her and she has said the same...
Author's reply
Alfirin's head told her one thing, but her heart told her another. And then her mouth let it out!
pipinheart
· 2 October 2005
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Alfirin is afraid and parinoid it seems that she wouldn't make ithilden a good wife. She cares for him as does he.
The servents quarling was quiet nice....
Author's reply
It wasn't until I wrote this story that I thought about what a big job Alfirin would be taking on in marrying Ithilden. The palace must be like a small business to run, and the household has been all male for quite a while. But as you say, she cares for him. And why not? He's brave and gorgeous too.
pipinheart
· 2 October 2005
· Chapter 1: Getting Better
Legolas is having trouble ajusting ofter killing the elf... but is getting better it seems...
Author's reply
Now this story is pretty recent. I had to cram it in in the space between "See the Stars" and "Prodigal Sons." I had left myself only a few weeks there, but I needed to get Ithilden engaged and get Legolas on the road to recovery.
Tapetum Lucidum
· 13 January 2005
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Galelas finally got what he deserved. There are times to fight and times to negotiate and Galelas was due a punch in the mouth. Getting extra attention from his teacher was not what he needed after the altercation.
I am glad you gave Thranduil some mixed emotions after this little incident. He should be feeling consternation, concern and worry. It must be hard to know how to react. I am quite sure Ithilden will not be happy with having to track the brat down.
Alfirin's thoughts are certainly accurate. I am glad she has the self-confidence to accept a role in the palace staff. It would be quite a challenge. I imagine her dreams are very pleasant at the moment...
The fact that Legolas is displeased with himself does show some maturity. At least he knew that slugging the "orc-spawn" was wrong. It sounds like his little trip into the forest was much needed. I hope Ithilden agrees. I think the view of a soaking wet, chilled Alfirin was enough to lift his mood. Even with a smirking teenager nearby.
You managed to keep the bad men, spiders and orcs away - I guess there were no rules about attacking treees. Legolas seems to have them fall on him whenever his sisters-in-law are near. Oh well, at least he is not naked this time. Wild boar too?! I think you are cheating, or at least watching "Lost." I doubt Alfirin can throw a knife as well as Celuwen but at least she was willing to try. Legolas' willingness to do the same was also a step in the right direction.
Alfirin does handle Legolas quite well - she chose exactly the right way to comfort him when he spilled his heart to her. Thanking him for protecting the realm and ensuring him that he did the right thing was just what he needed. Her romantic realizations about Ithilden were a good way to shift the mood.
Legolas finally admitted his greatest fear - you do a great job with Thranduil's parenting. He was supportive about Legolas' future as a warrior or whatever he wanted while still reinforcing the fact that fighting was wrong. You managed it all with a few quick words. Good job!
The sparring scene was great - Ithilden knew just what Legolas needed to relax him. The "old" comment reminded me of the Hector-Paris scene - very cute. The bucket story did the trick!
Ithilden's popping the question was very sweet and I really enjoyed getting to know Alfirin a lot better. I am glad they will have a bright future together - at least until their Eilian like offspring becomes a warrior (snicker)
Great job as usual!
Author's reply
I did cheat. The tree and the boar were necessary. I was desperate!
Poor Ithilden. He was so looking forward to a horseback ride with Alfirin in her wet gown more or less in his lap. But he knew his priorities and that's one of the things she loves about him.
I thought she would be good for Legolas. She's female and maternal. She's close to the family but hasn't been hovering over him, and he doesn't have the same emotional entanglements with her that he has with everyone else. So I thought that was progress. And you're right. I do doubt if she could match Celuwen with a knife, but despite her gentle nature, she was willing to try, and Legolas saw that too.
The sparring scene was my favorite part of the last chapter. It turned out Ithilden could be smart mouthed. :-)
I am glad they will have a bright future together - at least until their Eilian like offspring becomes a warrior (snicker) -- or perhaps even sooner. :-)
Tapetum Lucidum
· 13 January 2005
· Chapter 4: Time Away
Alfirin's little conversation with her mother was well done. It is good to hear her voice her doubts and have her comforted as only a mother could do. Obviously the thought of supervising Legolas had not occurred to her. It shouldn't be too different than keeping an eye on Tonduil. Right? Of course, we all know not to question Thranduil's parenting skills. One of Eilian's maidens learned that early.
Annael is a good friend to stop Legolas from letting his temper get the best of him. Boys are unmerciful to each other and if Galelas has found a sore spot he will keep poking at it. 10 points to Alfirin for handling a distraught elfling with skill. She made him feel better with what seemed like little effort. She even got a nice escort home. It is nice to see that Legolas admires his father and brother so much.
It would be hard to learn to live with public scrutiny as an adult. Ithilden barely notices while Alfirin shudders with displeasure. Their little conversation about the stars demostrated the diversity in their backgrounds very well. I think they were interrupted by the juvenile deliquents at a good time. I was happy Legolas made the right decision.
The mood certainly shifted but it all worked out well in the end. I thought the "bed you good night" was a typo, I bet Alfirin wished it was. I am glad she finally came clean and gave in to her heart.
One good thing you can say about Turgon, he will stand by your side no matter what. It may be the dumbest idea ever but he will be there. He is the answer to the age old question "If Tonduil jumped off of a bridge, would you?" Turgon's answer would be "Yes, I would."
What a wonderful picnic! You set a very romantic, sweet scene. The kiss was quite steamy, no wonder it was so hard for Ithilden to pull himself away. I think I would kill my younger brother. Alfirin was right, he should have trusted Legolas to get home himself, his presence was not exactly comforting to his youngest brother. It is true that Alfirin doesn't know the entire story but her instincts seem to be right on target. Ithilden seems to forget that she has a younger brother too.
Go Alfirin's Naneth! I love her support of Alfirin and her willingness to stand up to Ithilden. It is just what everyone needs. Making up can be a lot of fun too. Thranduil showed himself as a master parent again. Legolas does need his support more than his punishment. Working with knives will not be easy. The king's amusement over Ithilden and Alfirin's quarrel was cute. I think he and Alfirin's Naneth will get along quite well. I tried to warn them about interfering with Legolas' parenting but they wouldn't listen.
I have to take my 6 year old to drum lessons so I will finish later. What was I thinking getting a 6 year old drums for Christmas?! Oh well.. Looking forward to reading the rest.
Author's reply
Holy cow. I was thinking of my response to your review as I read it and then I got to the part about the drums. You did that yourself? It wasn't a hostile relative? Wow. Someone once sent us a little snare drum as a marketing ploy -- it had "make a noise about X" on the side of it. It came while our son was not around and we threw it away instantly.
I think Alfirin would be marrying into a very challenging situation and the year of betrothal is going to be useful to her. She keeps discovering new things, like people watching her in public. I don't think she's a person who would enjoy that a lot. And Ithilden is going to be oblivious to a lot of this.
That 'bed you good night' comment was originally a typo I made when writing about these two for another story. I looked at it, laughed, and decided to save it for a good moment and this seemed to be it.
Turgon on the other hand makes me sad. He is a good friend and he has about a month left to live. That's a crime. I comfort myself by believing that he was treated kindly in the Halls of Waiting and was probably waiting for Legolas in Valinor, where he had been taken in by much more sensible parents.
Tapetum Lucidum
· 13 January 2005
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
I like the idea of a little more wrap up for "See the Stars." It must have been extremely traumatic for our soft-hearted hero to kill an elleth like he did.
Sounds like Galelas is still an ass. I have more sympathy for him since I have met his older brother. Legolas' family must be scared to death for him. Unfortunately for them he is at an age where hovering is only going to make things worse. I wish he had confided what happened to Annael, I am sure he could have helped. Obviously the youngest prince is not as well as he wants to be. The quick conversation change between the brothers was cute - obviously Legolas has picked up on some of Thranduil's skill with irony.
Annael's house has always been a refuge for the prince. He must really love it there. Apparently people are a little more aware of the incident than he realizes. I am glad his friends are treating him well. Running into the maidens was very cute. At least some things are always the same.
Reading about a shy Alfirin is a nice change of pace from reading about our confident Celuwen. I like them both a lot and I'm glad you have given both of them a strong, distinct personality. The shy maiden's observance of Ithilden's thigh musculature was hilarious. I may have noticed something like that a time or two myself... say when he was pulling an arrow out of skeleton in Moria and the camera panned up, or standing on a cliff in Rohan when the camera panned up.... Wait! I'm getting a little distracted.
Alfirin's perspective of life in the palace was very fresh. To her sleeping in a flet is something every child does but it is not easy for a princeling. Having guards around is perfectly normal to them but awkward for her. It is a nice contrast. I was glad to see Legolas being a proper host. It must have been a little uncomfortable for both of them. I have no doubt Thranduil's wine is better than most, even when properly watered.
Turgon's return obviously did not thrill Thranduil. At least it gave him an opportunity to comfort his youngest a little... something he must not want from his eldest sibling. Alfirin's musings about the running of the household are a great idea! I would never worry about such things. Apparently it is something at which Alfirin will be quite skilled. Ithilden had trouble learning that the role between brothers was a lot different than the warrior-commander one. I would hope he could learn to use the same knowledge in other aspects of home life. If not, he is going to be in BIG trouble. Alfirin may be a homemaker at heart but she is far from a pushover.
Walking her to the weaving was very sweet and their trip home was pleasant. Your use of her self-doubt was very realistic and it is obvious that Alfirin's heart is a little louder than her head.
Great job!
Author's reply
My beta set this story as a challenge for me: I was not allowed to have any orcs, spiders, or bad men. I had to just deal with people's feelings. And once I got started it was kind of fun. It did seem to me that Legolas might have himself in a double bind almost: he wants his family but doesn't want them; he wants to use weapons but is afraid to. Poor kid.
When I first started writing about the girlfriends, I was really worried that they would merge into a sort of generic, personality-less female, so I made lists of traits and how they were alike and how they were different. Alfirin would never have put up with Eilian, and Celuwen would have sent the troop commander home, thank you very much. But Ithilden needs Alfirin, and they are just as passionate about one another as Eilian and Celuwen are, although they are much more controlled.
Yeah, Alfirin's head said no and her mouth said yes.
Avon
· 10 January 2005
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Sorry, not really a review - more an answer. I think I would describe myself as an 'elf-person', but I can see why you wouldn't think so. I'm a Legolas fan first and foremost; actually perhaps describing me as a *Legolas* person is more accurate than an elf person. ;-) I normally only read stories with Legolas in them - unless a friend has written them. Oddly enough I don't write much elf, though - I seem to have more of a Boromir and Faramir muse - so I guess I don't seem like an elf fan. Perhaps I'm just a mongrel ;-)
Author's reply
I think I thought that because you write about men, you must read about them too. I write these stories because they're the ones I wish someone else had written so I can read them. I wonder how unusual it is that you read and write about different races? (You don't have to answer that. :-))
elliska
· 5 January 2005
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Poor Legolas. He has rather bad luck with trees sometimes. :) But I loved seeing Alfirin protect him from the boar and then turn around to see he was protecting her as well. That shows great progress for Legolas and the type of strength Alfirin needs too. Great job with that. And let me tell you, wild boars are scary. We have them in Florida. A female wild boar treed me when I first moved down here--kept me in that tree for almost eight hours. They are as stubborn as they are viscious. You don't want to mess with one and I would want to face one with a knife. Great job on a scary scene there.
Great Legolas and Ada scene by Legolas' bedside. I loved that. Again, Thranduil was perfect.
And the whole sparing (sp?) scene was too great. I can't even pick a part to cite that I liked the best.
I'm glad we got to see the proposal and acceptance at the end. I always hate to see your stories end. I think I'll go read the reviews now and see if you give us any hints of what you'll do next.
Author's reply
I am a little in a rut about the tree thing, but I needed something to put these three in the woods together and then let Alfirin and Legolas confront one another. You've been treed for EIGHT hours??? wow. That sounds terrifying. Meckinock says there were wild boars in Germany when she was lived there too.
Thranduil came through as the good adar here, thank goodness.
But my favorite part of this chapter was the sparring scene. That was so much fun to write. Ithilden can be wicked and turns out to have a great sense of humor when he's not being in charge.
I have the outline and first chapter of story about young warrior Legolas, set about 30 years after "The Warrior." I hope to post it later this week but I'm sick and I have a ton of stuff to do. We'll see.
elliska
· 5 January 2005
· Chapter 5: Is Everything Well?
Oh boy! Yeap. Very few things I think would push Legolas to a fight but that comment--one that implies he's untrustworthy--that would do it for certain. Galelas got what he deserved. But I bet Penntalion was floored by it.
Last night, when she had not been thinking about kissing Ithilden, she had reveled in how angry she was at him. This whole thought process for Alfirin was great. I loved this.
Legolas watched him for a few minutes and then leaned his head back against the tree, which was humming happily at his presence. His mouth twisted in a rueful smile. Why was it that pleasing the forest and his horse was so easy, while pleasing everyone else was so hard? Including himself, of course, he added honestly. Also an excellent sequence. I have really enjoyed the introspection in this story. I enjoy that kind of thing.
Ithilden did much better in this interaction with his little brother--maybe he learned something from his future wife. A good sign. And his reaction to Alfirin in her wet clothing was great.
The wonderful thing about reading this late is that I don't have to suffer through the cliffie. I can just click next. Yeah. :)
Author's reply
My beta told me I was not allowed to use orcs, spiders, or bad men in this story. I was supposed to slow down and work on feelings which I tend to rush through. She forgot to forbid falling trees though. :-)
I have to admit that once I got into trying to pictures and explore their feelings fully, this was fun.
elliska
· 5 January 2005
· Chapter 4: Time Away
Turgon is a troublemaker and a bad influence but the fact is he was a good friend for Legolas in his own way. He provided a little rebellion, and Legolas needed that little streak in him to go on the Quest, and in situations like this one, he is a good unquestioning companion. I liked that part of this chapter. Poor kid. He's not long for this world and its sad to think about reading this--a big advantage to presenting these out of order. More angsty for your readers.
On top, he found plates, silverware, and two carefully wrapped crystal goblets. He raised his eyebrows. He did not remember such elaborate tableware being used at the picnics on which he had gone with his parents. Very cute. I liked that little touch.
I was enjoying their little picnic almost as much as they were until Legolas and Turgon showed up. That was a nasty little scene and I have to agree with Alfirin on it. It's hard for older brother/troop commander Ithilden to realize that Legolas is older and needs be allowed to made some of his own mistakes. I like that Alfirin states her opinion. Ithilden needs someone that is strong just as his father would. But of course it's a shame to ruin such a pretty day.
Again, Alfirin's interaction with her mum on this was wonderful--definitely captures the perspective of the long married vs they newly in love.
And Thranduil's interactions with both his sons were perfect.
“Yes, she was. She said I should have shown more trust in him and sent him home alone.”
To Thranduil’s ear, Ithilden sounded as much astounded as angry at the maiden’s criticism. A bubble of amusement rose in Thranduil’s chest. He tried to suppress it, but Ithilden’s sharp ears heard the slight sound that Thranduil could not quite contain. Ithilden looked at him sharply. “You find this amusing?”
Relieved of having to dissemble, Thranduil grinned openly. “I do. I have always liked Alfirin, but I am beginning to think she is an even better match for you that I had originally believed.”
Priceless!
Author's reply
I feel so bad about Turgon, I can hardly stand it. He has a few weeks at to live at most. What was I thinking????? I have to write about Legolas in Valinor someday so he can meet Turgon again.
I've been working on making Alfirin pretty deferential but still rock solid about the things that matter to her. I think she'd see Ithilden as the head of their family and would cater to him in most things. But if there was a matter of principle, she'd be absolutely unmoveable. Boy, does he have a lot to learn!
elliska
· 5 January 2005
· Chapter 3: Take Your Time
So nice to come back and find out what happened in this story as I was on vacation. I like Tonduil. Such a good kid. I'd like to see more of him in these.
Alfirin's conversation with her mother was well done. Good motherly advice.
And poor Legolas. He does not need Galelas causing him grief. I liked the part where you described Legolas' knife and its runes. Good angsty introspection there. And I loved his interaction with Alfirin. She could be just what he needs.
But Alfirin and Ithilden were priceless. She tried so hard to take her mother's advice and her reaction to Ithilden/Legolas was great but that 'slip' that she made. You had me there. I read that and I thought, 'Boy, Daw doesn't make typos but when she does, even those are good.' Then I read on. You really got me. That was great! Loved it. And that was a wonderful way to get them to finally admit the obvious to each other. Great!
Author's reply
I was away all this week, hunting for pirates in the Caribbean, so it was nice for me to come home to all these ego-stoking reviews. :-)
I like Tonduil too. He's so good hearted. I have such a large cast of characters now that I tend to lose some of them, although it was Tonduil who was getting married in "Tangled Web" when the dwarves crashed the party. I'm shameless. I'm still laughing at my own funny scenes.
As you probably know by now, Alfirin is just what Legolas needs. She's motherly and concerned, but she hasn't been hovering over him like his family have been doing. And she's female. I think he needs that.
That slip of the tongue did originate in a type I made while writing about these two in a different story. I looked at it and laughed and then decided to save it to use at the right moment. And this was it!
lwarren
· 3 January 2005
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Caught on the edge of a tree-fall! At least he wasn't squashed flat! I was so glad to see Ithilden's treatment of Legolas (concerned and tender, as well as take-charge!) and I'm sure Legolas was relieved to feel the strength of his older brother holding him!
A boar! Alfirin with a knife out to protect Legolas, and Legolas draws his own to protect her. A major step there, daw, even if he wonders whether he could have done it or not ('course, her standing in the way would have brought back all manner of memory should he have had to throw the darn thing).
Finally, he confides in Alfirin...and I wasn't surprised she knew just what to say. I would imagine working with her mother in the healing rooms would have shown her different ways to counsel traumatized patients...even if it was only by watching her naneth).
The sparring between Thranduil and Legolas at the end was great! And Ithilden permanently endeared himself to me when he started teasing and distracting his Adar in an effort to help Legolas relax and ultimately, win! What a brother! What an Adar! He was great, too! :-) *BIG ENORMOUS smile*
Yay, Ithilden pops the question and Alfirin says "What took you so long - come here, you gorgeous thing, you!" I only wish this lovely story wasn't over - but I hope you have other equally lovely things in mind! As always, a pleasure to read your work, daw! (Have a wonderful new year!)
linda
Author's reply
I think Ithilden would be a comforting person to have around in a crisis. When Legolas was little, he thought of Ithilden as "someone who made you feel safe," but "he did not like to be bad in front of him." And I think that sums big brother up pretty well.
And Legolas is on his way to healing, mostly through his interaction with Alfirin, which I found interesting to set up. Legolas needs a mother figure, I think, and she's close to the family but not yet part of it, so maybe he doesn't feel as guarded with her.
My favorite part of this chapter to write was the sparring sequence. Who knew Ithilden could be so smart-mouthed? He'd better watch it because "old" Dad could probably still knock him down if he decided that Ithilden needed knocking!
I've been away all this week (in the Caribbean :-)) and have an outline and a draft of a first chapter for a new story but I'm so disoriented from traveling home and going back to work tomorrow, that I don't know when I'll get around to sending it to my beta and posting. Later this week, I hope. It's about 2:30 am here right now and I'm still too wound up to sleep, so I'll have to see how things go!
Avon
· 3 January 2005
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
That was nice. I do like your Mirkwood family (though I miss Elian when he's not there).
Author's reply
I miss Eilian too, but I have to keep him out sometimes because he tends to take over when I let him show up on the screen!
I appreciate the review, Avon, especially since I don't believe you're particularly an "elf person," are you?
Melissa
· 1 January 2005
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
This story is another treat, like all the others. You and Nightwing are my favorite LOTR writers ever.
Author's reply
Thank you, Melissa. As it happens, I'm enjoying Nightwing's story too. I want to see what happens when those townspeople attack!
Ms. Whatsit
· 31 December 2004
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Oh. Sniff. How romantic.
I rather like ActionHeroine!Alfirin. She doesn't come out very often--that's part of her charm--but when she does, it's great.
And I liked that scene with Ithilden and Legolas and Thranduil a lot. It was very heart-warming--a sweet little family moment, with even the absent Eilian making an impression through Ithilden's story.
Author's reply
Alfirin might not be very good with a knife, but she's brave and I like that. So does Ithilden, I might add.
The sparring scene was the most fun to write. I like Ithilden distracting Thranduil and relaxing Legolas. And it just struck me as funny that he'd call Thranduil "old."
Ms. Whatsit
· 31 December 2004
· Chapter 5: Is Everything Well?
Of course Alfirin takes Ithilden's treatment of Legolas rather personally--not only is she the maternal type, but also she's afraid that the same severe attitude Ithilden takes towards Legolas will also be directed at her.
I was waiting for Legolas to throw a punch at Galelas. Poor kid. This refrain of "Poor Legolas!" is getting to be a bit like the "Poor Sinnarn!" chorus from A Tangled Web.
Your descriptions of the woods, and later the storm, are particularly vivid in this chapter. I really liked that, especially since any story set in Mirkwood would have to pay a lot of attention to the surrounding nature.
Author's reply
At her or her offspring, I'd say.
Yeah, the fight was almost inevitable, although it's not the kind of thing that delights a parent. I felt sorry for Galelas too actually. He seems lonely to me.
I'm glad you like the descriptions, such as they were. I don't think of myself as a very descriptive writer, I'm afraid.
Rose Sared
· 30 December 2004
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Awwwwww, sigh. So sweet. That was very nice and I am so glad that we got the romantic proposal and all, after reading Elian's future naughtiness (which was hot) that scene was all misty and dewy eyed.
Nice tale.
Thankyou
Rose
PS In my usual tradition of picking up on great tomes when they are nearly finished I have to recommend you go read Ricky Tikki Tavi's Stardust.(Book one on HASA. Book Two, WIP, on ffnet) She has OC's that are in your league! (praise indeed)
Author's reply
Ithilden and Alfirin are much more serious people than Eilian is, and then, of course, their parents approve of their match, which isn't the case for Eilian. And also, I think that Eilian is the most wood-elfy of Thranduil's sons, and Tolkien says the wood-elves are more dangerous and less wise. :-)
I've read Ricky Tikki Tavi's Stardust and the sequel. They are both wonderful stories, especially the first one.
French Pony
· 29 December 2004
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Every family has its ways of testing to see if the kid's current main squeeze is The One, I guess. In my family, it's the Seder Test -- if the squeeze surrenders him/her/itslf to the joyful insanity that is our family seder, they're in. (My cousin's squeeze passed two years in a row! They're engaged now! Yay!) In Thranduil's family, it seems to be the Drop A Tree On Legolas Test. If the squeeze cheerfully helps treat whatever injuries result, she's in. I imagine that ol' Legolas is perfectly happy that he only has two older brothers.
The wild boar sounds scary. In truth, I only know a few things about wild boar. They're Obelix's favorite food. And they are the subject of my favorite scene in Mel Brooks's Robin Hood: Men In Tights -- the scene where Robin Hood, played by Cary Elwes, schleps in this gigantic poached wild boar and thwaps it down defiantly in front of Prince John, played by Richard Lewis. Prince John looks at the boar, then at Robin Hood, and mutters, "Trayf!"
“That really was well done, little one.”
Legolas gave a small snort. “Not little any more,”
Yeah, if he's back to protecting his status, he's not that badly hurt after all.
It is good that Legolas felt he could talk to Alfirin. She's not that much older than he is, so it looks like he might have found the perfect confidante. Just related enough to keep a secret, but not Really Family, not yet. I think she handled it well. She is a good big sister to Tonduil, clearly, and she seems to be figuring out that what she needs to be to Legolas is a big sister, too.
Kind of makes me wonder what that family's life might have been like if Thranduil and Lorellin had had a daughter in addition to the three boys -- if Legolas and possibly Eilian had really had a big sister. Of course, she would have been just like her mother, able to knock down an acorn at twenty paces with a knife!
I didn't know that the Wood-elves wore helmets to train in. You never mentioned them before. It makes a lot of sense that they would wear them, though. First, for safety, and second, because they'd wear helmets with armor, probably. Does Thranduil get a helmet, too? And kibitzing Ithilden! I love it. Only Alfirin could have brought out this side of him. Thranduil should have done ths a long time ago. Legolas has always loved playing with him.
So, one problem is solved. Ithilden and Alfirin sittin' in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G. First comes loooooooove, then comes marriage. (Then comes Sinnarn in a baby carriage, but we haven't gotten to that bit yet.) Only one problem left to go, because Legolas isn't quite as healed as he looks.
Author's reply
I have to stop doing that thing with the tree! It's getting monotonous. Oh well, as you say, Legolas only has two brothers.
I looked up some stuff about wild boars. They seemed like an ok passing danger for this story, one that would let both Alfirin and Legolas show they could use a weapon, but not too threatening in normal circumstances. I may have told you that my beta said I couldn't use any spiders, orcs, or bad men. She wanted me to slow down and write about people's feelings, which turned out to be both difficult and good to do.
Alfirin is good for Legolas, and probably for all of them. She's not so emotionally involved with him as his father and brothers have, and yet she's caring.
Re helmets. I seem to be somewhat spotty in using them. I know I've had the novices use them in the war games they play twice a year, but I think that may be it. Thranduil does, indeed, get a helmet. And who knew that Ithilden could be so smart mouthed? LOL. I like the teasing and it relaxed Legolas.
And yes, Legolas is still going to do something stupid. I just filled in a gap. Sigh.
White Wolf
· 29 December 2004
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
A great ending to yet another wonderful story. Of course, we know Ithilden and Alfirin finally got together, but it was good seeing the acuual proposal.
Having Legolas realize that when danger threatens, he can use a knife to defend himself and anyone else needing his help, was handled that very well.
I like the way Legolas leaned on Ithiden's strength, when he needed it most and that he trusted Alfirin enough to tell her what had been bothering him.
I loved the sparring match between Legolas and Thrnduil. That was really nice to see father and son enjoying that interaction.
Author's reply
I enjoyed seeing the proposal myself. I learned a lot about Alfirin by writing this story. I could really imagine what it must have been like to decide to take on Ithilden and the palace household.
And Legolas is getting better. Alfirin was the right person for him to talk to. She's maternal, but isn't hovering over him like his family is.
The sparring match was my favorite part of this chapter to write. Who knew Ithilden had such a smart mouth.
Dot
· 29 December 2004
· Chapter 6: Taking Care
Oh, daw, thank you so much for such a wonderful chapter right when I needed it. This was so great. You had me all weepy until I got as far as the sparring session and now I can’t stop smiling!
You know, for a wood-elf, Legolas does have some bad luck with falling trees. Still, Alfirin and Celuwen don’t seem to mind looking after him! Great job on writing the confusion of the moment when the tree is falling and they all react to it. I love the way that Legolas responds to Ithilden almost as he would his father, to the authority and comfort he offers. And while of course I feel very sorry for Legolas, I was so glad that Alfirin got to see Ithilden combine hero-mode and competence with such tenderness. How could she not love him??
I like your phrase about “hunting flowers”. It sort of combines strength and gentleness that’s so very Alfirin. I loved her in that scene with the boar. I nearly laughed when it appeared. Like, of course there was a wild boar. Why wouldn’t there be?? Mirkwood sometimes seems to be one great, big wildlife reserve. I felt a bit sorry for it, though. It seemed really scared. Anyway, if Ithilden wants to know what kind of a mother Afirin would be, he just has to think of her ready to throw a knife at a wild animal, with his injured baby brother sheltered behind her. And yay, Legolas’ first instinct was to draw his knife, ready to throw it. That says a lot, that no matter what his reaction afterwards is, he still did it. But how scary to think that Alfirin was between him and the boar when he doesn’t yet trust his skill. I got all teary when Ithilden tells him that he was very brave. I mean, it’s absolutely true and coming from Ithilden it must mean a lot. I loved the line “That really was well done, little one.” It’s never any harm to annoy your younger brother but I think that even though Legolas is certainly no child any more, he’s feeling very vulnerable now and probably doesn’t object at all to Ithilden’s comfort and reassurance.
It seems Legolas was rather surprised that Alfirin could use a knife. I suppose all of Thranduil’s people need to know how to defend themselves to some extent. I really liked the fact that without knowing what the matter was, she still managed to say just the right thing: “I have to admit I would have felt much better if I had known you were there with your knife ready too. I was terrified.” And she deals with him so amazingly well once he does confide in her. She wasn’t there and isn’t one of his family, she’s just one of the ordinary people that he is training to protect and her genuine gratitude must mean more than even the support his family offers. I suppose that as well as judging Ithilden by the way he treats his brother, Alfirin can judge him by the rest of his family and this brave and loving soul lying in front of her speaks volumes of the type of upbringing he had and the love he receives at home.
“He was the king’s son and the leader of the king’s warriors, and she respected and admired him for the skilled, graceful way he met those responsibilities, but the person she loved was Ithilden himself, the Elf he was in the center of his being, the one who could be strong when those who depended on him needed strength and yet be tender when a suffering youth needed someone to comfort him.” Oh, wow. I could read that over and over again. That really sums Ithilden up, doesn’t it? Of course his position as king’s son is part of who he is, but I think he really needs to be loved for just himself too. And besides, we all know how good she’ll be for him and how much he deserves the happiness she brings to him – but she’s a damn lucky elf too!!
I always enjoy the scenes with Thranduil at Legolas’ bedside. It seems to be the best place to get Legolas to actually confide in his father. I was so glad that not only did he decide to tell him what Galelas said but was able to share his doubts about himself with his father. I was kind of surprised that Thranduil was all set to give the speech about how Legolas didn’t have to be a warrior. I knew he’d been thinking about it, but I don’t think I believed he’d say it yet. I could have cursed Legolas for interrupting because I really wanted to know what else he would have said! Ah well, at least Thranduil was able to comfort him. And trust him to slip in a reprimand while he was at it too. “She could knock down an acorn at twenty paces.” I wonder how he found that out?? It sounds like Celuwen, actually. It’s so sweet how Eilian fell in love with someone so like his beloved mother.
“Good,” said Legolas. “I like her.” Yes!! Well done, Alfirin.
That sparring scene! I loved, loved, loved it! So many things that we don’t normally get to see – Thranduil sparring, Ithilden teasing his father, Legolas and Ithilden just being brothers… Thranduil was great in this scene in the way he was simply there for his youngest son. And I’m so glad that Legolas is improving. But the best thing has to be Ithilden. He doesn’t let the session become too serious for a second. “He is old and will eventually need to sit down if you keep him on his feet long enough.” ROTFLMAO! That’s too funny. Any nearby guards must have bitten through their tongues trying not to laugh. That was a very well-timed story about Eilian and Maldor as well. The funniest thing is that they all know about it except Thranduil. I’ll bet Eilian wasn’t all that young when he did that either. Legolas really needed that time with his father. I love that both Ithilden and Thranduil responded to his needs in this chapter and were able to give him back some confidence in himself.
You showed the proposal! Thank you! And it was so beautiful. Imagine being told that you make someone a better person. He was so open and honest with her, which has never really been easy for him. Seeing their happiness and the way they both feel so lucky to have found the other is just so heart-warming.
I’m so very grateful to you for writing about this time, daw. It fits so easily in with the next story – Legolas is improving but not quite there yet, Annael is learning to resist Turgon, Turgon is determined to show that he is ready to be a warrior, Ithilden and Alfirin have finally acknowledged their feelings… Your pacing with both the relationship between Ithilden and Alfirin and Legolas’ recovery was absolutely perfect. I always liked Alfirin too but was thrilled to get this chance to get to know her better and as always when you choose to focus on someone else’s point of view, I feel I’ve really got a better insight into this family of yours through her. Ithilden deserved the spotlight for a while too, and boy did he shine in the end! Thanks again. I’m back to work tomorrow but if you’re still on holiday, take it easy and I’ll be here as always when you have more for us. :-)
Author's reply
If I brightened your day, that's only fair, Dot, since you often brighten mine. Like now. :-)
My theory about Legolas and Eilian with Ithilden is that when they're kids, they see him as like their father, although without the same authority, of course. Little Legolas thought of him as someone who made you feel safe, but he didn't like to be bad in front of him. It's only as they near adulthood that they begin to establish a more brotherly relationship with him. Legolas is creeping up on that age, but he still does what Ithilden tells him and is very grateful that Ithilden is there when he's in need. And I thought it was good for Alfirin to see that, because she doesn't have perfect understanding of them either. She needs to see that Legolas trusts Ithilden, will obey him, will bury his face in Ithilden's shoulder. That has to make her love Ithilden more, I think.
And if Alfirin saw the potential father in Ithilden, he saw the potential mother in her. She'd defend her young very fiercely. Indeed I think that's one area where he better tread carefully in the coming years. She'd be adamant on what she thought was good for Sinnarn. Her maternal qualities are also part of what Legolas responds to, I think. He doesn't have to prove himself to her. She accepts him and values him.
Ithilden has been in a difficult position all his life, I think. He's Thranduil's heir and he's a rather reserved person. I think those two things together might have made it difficult for him to have a lot of friends. So I think that Alfirin's love for him is like water to a thirsty plant. He's going to thrive with it. He'll be happier and better.
I think that Celuwen is a LOT like Lorellin, and indeed, so is Eilian. They're wood-elves, the most so of any of Thranduil's family. Tolkien says the wood-elves were more dangerous and less wise than the elves of Rivendell, and you see that in these three, I think. I can't imagine Ithilden and Alfirin bonding like Eilian and Celuwen did, but I can imagine Lorellin thinking it was a good idea. :-)
The sparring scene was the most fun to write in this chapter. Who knew that Ithilden could be so smart mouthed? LOL. And Sonny, you'd better watch yourself. My guess is that dear old dad could still knock you on your back if he decided you needed knocking. I'm still undecided about how old Eilian was when the bucket of water fell on Maldor. It occurred to me it could have happened almost any time, like in the last five years even. And yeah, it's funny that Thranduil doesn't know. At least, I thought it was. Even Legolas knows!
I have learned a ton about Alfirin in this story and some about Ithilden too. I'm glad you liked it, Dot. I'm on holiday until January 10. We're going to Caribbean next week. I'm sick of cold and snow already, so I'm looking forward to it, but I'm taking my laptop and writing if I can. I enjoy it. We've done this several years in a row. Last year, I wrote the first two chapters of "Fire and Shadow" and the year before I wrote my first fanfic ever. :-)