Dot
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Ooh, lovely! I enjoyed every second of this. Apart from Ithilden’s thoughtless comment, which had me smacking my head off the table.
I’ve always liked Alfirin but I think that I was taking her a little for granted, just as I unquestioningly accepted the way the palace was run so it’s wonderful to have this opportunity to not only get further insight into her character but through her to see Thranduil’s home as though for the first time.
The little scene with Alfirin trying to choose a dress made me smile. There’s something so very normal about it. I was hoping she’d wear the green one and not give into the temptation to try to fit in. But then, I’m the one who just spent about an hour trying to decide what would be appropriate attire for my work Christmas party later in the week…
For some reason I really loved the line “But they both watch Ithilden, and I think it makes him nervous.” I suppose it’s because she isn’t thinking about what her family will do or say or think, or even so much what Ithilden will think but rather how he’ll feel and from the way she says it, it sounds as though she’s noticed this before and is learning to read his emotions even when he doesn’t say anything.
Gwaleniel is so funny. She clearly knows exactly what will make the right impression on Ithilden. And Alfirin sounds really pretty by the end of her ministrations. I liked her little speech. Actually, I seem to remember Thranduil thinking that Alfirin was lucky to have his son when he first tried to court her! Tsk. Parents… They’re all the same.
I was so happy for Tonduil to have his moment with Ithilden! And if Ithilden is taking such an interest in her family, Alfirin can be sure he’s serious about her. “Suddenly she realized she was watching the flex of muscle in Ithilden’s thigh as his leggings tightened across it when he crouched.” Mmmm… Eh? Oh, yeah, I was writing a review… It’s actually really sweet, though, to see the obvious physical attraction she feels for him. That’s important too! Warm from hurrying, my hat.
“It was the frankest comment she had ever heard Ithilden make about a member of his family.” Well, that certainly says a lot. Ithilden definitely isn’t in the habit of chatting about his family so openly. I really like how in tune she is with him already. She’s copped on to the fact that’s something’s up with Legolas and seems touched by the fact that Ithilden is concerned but she still has enough sense to know not to say anything. I don’t think Ithilden would be a particularly easy person to read because, like Thranduil, he doesn’t wear his emotions openly but she seems to be doing quite a good job.
I felt so bad for her when Ithilden was called away. Imagine getting as far as the front door and then having to meet the family without him there. Ah well, I guess it’s better that she know now that this kind of thing happens. I was fascinated at the way all the different questions popped into her head – about Ithilden’s clothes, the guards, the shopping list, the meals, etc. They’re all things that I’ve vaguely wondered about now and then but it’s such a great reminder of how very different his lifestyle is than hers. I mean, we’ve seen Legolas, for example, think about how different some things are in his friends’ cottages but it’s really interesting to see it the other way around. I was enthralled by the description of the family quarters. It was wonderfully detailed. Whatever I had been imagining definitely didn’t include tapestries and patterned carpets. But now I know!
That Alfirin was running her family’s household for so long makes perfect sense. She’s overwhelmed now by what it must take to run the king’s household but I can really see the basis of the competency with which she will eventually run it.
“Your weaving looks most elegant in the council chamber, mistress. You should ask Lord Ithilden to take you to see it before you leave.” Oh, that was nice of him. It must be good for her to know that her work is so appreciated. Of course, if Alfirin married Ithilden, Nyndir’d have a lot less work to do!
A brooding Legolas isn’t a good sign. Poor thing. Despite everyone’s concern he must be feeling rather alone right now.
Thranduil put on a wonderful display. Checking Legolas’ drink, being gentle with him when he seems troubled and even chuckling at the servants can leave Alfirin with no doubt that the king is also just a father and beneath the differences in lifestyle this is just a family. She’s already noticed that the room needs more of a female touch but what she needs is to realise that the males need some looking-after from time to time and then she’ll be totally undone!
LOL at the two servants. That was hilarious. They’re lucky they caught Thranduil on a good day! It was so good to see Legolas laughing so hard. I get the impression that Thranduil was just as pleased to see Legolas laugh and amused at Ithilden’s mortification as entertained by the servants. And then, “Has he no command over his wife?” *cringe* I’m going to excuse him, though, because I’d say that was really more a thoughtless reaction to what he felt was an embarrassing situation than anything else. Thranduil nearly choking on his wine still has me laughing. Was he hoping she’d say something?? That would have been worth seeing! But she has no intention of embarrassing herself or Ithilden and surely even Thranduil realises that at this early stage she can’t appear too feisty! Wait ‘til Celuwen for that…
He played his harp for her! *dances with glee* I bet she has no idea how seldom he does that. And Thranduil likes her! That was probably a kiss more than any of Eilian’s girlfriends ever got from Thranduil.
I got completely lost in the moment when he was walking her home. The little touches that hold a new sense of intimacy, the lingering looks… So romantic. All that was missing was a kiss. It’s almost frustrating to see her self-doubt but I can totally understand how intimidating it must be to her to think of life “as the wife of the king’s heir and troop commander”. You know, Eilian’s relationship with Celuwen felt special because he’d been friendly with so many other maidens but she was the one he loved but Alfirin and Ithilden’s relationship feels special because neither seem the type who would have had much experience as younglings with the opposite sex, so now as adults this has a lot of meaning for both of them. That they’re both doubting themselves and their worthiness of the other person speaks volumes of their feelings. And while they’re trying to figure out where to go from here all the amused parents will have to wait patiently. But finally, progress is being made!!
A truly great chapter, daw. I love this story! :-)
Author's reply
I've never written anything sustained from Alfirin's POV before, and I also learned from doing it. I had to think about what she was stepping into, and even the appearance of the palace had to be more explicit for me. Thranduil's family just takes it for granted but I knew she wouldn't.
That's a very nice observation about how she's thinking about Ithilden's feelings already. He's probably not easy to read, as you say, but she seems to be able to do it. I think that that and even her physical attraction to him are signs of her growing love for him. I think that in Elves all those things are connected more tightly than they are for men.
I'd forgotten that thought of Thranduil's, that if the maiden didn't appreciate Ithilden, then she was a fool. :-)
I wanted the contrast between her life and his to be very obvious because at this moment, she has a big decision to make. She'll be taking on a lot if she decides to love him, and this chapter was meant to make all that obvious. And I mean not only life in the palace, but also Ithilden's personality, his rather dominant temperament. She's going to need to confront that.
Ithilden was embarrassed by the servants because she was there. And Thranduil only just stopped himself from telling Legolas that he'd probably had enough wine already because he was, indeed, happy to see Legolas laughing. And Thranduil did want Alfirin to react. He can see what Ithilden is like! Time will tell, though, Thranduil.
Ithilden wanted to kiss her but she had just had enough for one night. Maybe tomorrow!
perelleth
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Oh well.. EE ROTK goes before everything, we'll understand if it takes longer to you to update (In Europe it's been available since last Thursday...so I'm already updated on that front..);-) Anyway, let's hope Ithilden fares better in his next try... Are you planning any "emergency training" for him on the subject or do you intend to simply let him stumble around again and again ? (that can also be a winning strategy, I speak from experience!!!) :-)
Author's reply
I think Ithilden will mostly fend for himself, but Thranduil may have to step in if he doesn't want to have to depend on some sort of miracle to provide him with grandchildren.
elliska
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Oh this is priceless!
I am going to try to write an organized review but I am just hopping over this one so I'm not sure I can.
Ok--Alfirin getting ready for the big event: That was very well done. I like seeing the elves doing what eveyone else does sometimes. There are some things that are going to be common to absolutely every species and I can't help but think fussing over preparing for Big Events is one of them. I love the physical description here. I knew Alfirin was dark haired but I didn't know she had curls. Lovely. And I love her mum convincing her to leave her hair loose. I bet Ithilden liked it too. Ok, can I ask a really stupid question? It occurred to me that I don't know what color Ithilden's hair is. Why I should care, I don't know, but now I'm curious.
Alfirin meeting Ithilden in the yard: Too cute. Yeah, I totally had a fangirl moment right along with Alfirin. And their little 'I apologize, No I do' moment was too realistic!
Walking into the palace: My undergrad degree was in russian lit. There was a genre of lit in russian known as ostrenenie (I can spell it in cyrillic--not sure how to transliterate it but anyhow...). In that type of lit, the point is to present something common from the POV of someone unfamiliar with it. It's great and this was a wonderful example of it. All the details--Ithilden finally saying something 'frank' about The Family, not reacting to the guards, taking travel to Imladris so matter-of-factly. And then her reactions to everything as she goes with the steward to the sitting room. Love her reaction to the list--get into it sweetheart, it's your future. And looking around at the halls. Loved it.
In the sitting room: Legolas and Thranduil are just such a family here. It has to be comforting to Alfirin to see that. Legolas is such a dear little host. He's at an age where he knows what to do but it's still too cute to see him do it. And I love Thranduil's 'my dear.' It says a lot in itself.
The dinner scene: I'm with Legolas. ROTFL! Oh Daw! How do you do this to poor Ithilden. "Has he no command over his wife." Thranduil is lucky he didn't choke to death on his wine after hearing his son say that. I'd love to know what he was thinking. I hope ada says something to his lost little son later that night. But the servants were great and their parting line was hilarious.
The departure: I loved Thranduil's farewell to her. I think Alfirin would need such things. It's hard enough to meet The Parents. Think about if the parents in question were the king and queen! She needs to know that she is accepted and that there is a family behind the Royal Presence. Thranduil's actions show that he is 'human' (obviously, for lack of a better word). I loved Ithilden taking her to see the tapestry. But I just adored her realization that he was serious and she was scared. Too realistic after such a night (it went well, of course, especially for them, but still it would be hard on you to dine with royalty when you weren't part of such a line). Poor Ithilden wanted to kiss her and she just bolted. Too much in one night. I bet she regretted that later! You had better show us that first kiss. I love how nervous and uncertain she was but she could not refuse him the promise of a walk the next night.
Those two are too cute. You did a great job with this chapter. I loved it. I know you can't possibly get another chapter up before I leave so I am going to go mad. I almost didn't read this because I knew it would only make me crave more. Oh well, when I get home, I'll have this to read and the EE to watch. Looking forward to that.
Author's reply
I read somewhere that Elves were particularly taken with pretty hair. Ithilden is dark haired. I emailed you pictures of the actors that I think about when I write about my characters. (If anyone else reading this wants them too, I'll be happy to send them. You can send me email by clicking on my name on my author page.)
This is the first time I've written anything sustained from Alfirin's POV and it was interesting to do. It made me do just what you said -- look at familiar things from the POV of someone not familiar with them. I had never pictured that hallway so clearly, for instance. And I did want her to be experiencing a contrast between what she's used to and what Ithilden is used to. She's a little daunted. We'll see how brave she can be. ;-)
I thought that Legolas would be enough the king's son that he'd know how to be a host, even if he is a little unaccustomed to it. And I'm sure he knew that Thranduil would be checking his glass of wine!
I think that Thranduil was wondering if he was ever going to be a grandparent with his idiot of an oldest son talking about commanding his wife as if she was a novice! LOL
And yes, she panicked. She wants him. She just needs to get her courage up. Have a good time while you're away.
meckinock
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
It was brilliant to use Alfirin's POV for the entire chapter. I especially enjoyed Ithilden's thigh muscles, although the palace wasn't bad, either. Alfirin sure doesn't miss anything; she just seems to be a compulsive orderer of things. And what a messed up household. Somewhere Lorellin is begging the Valar to push this courtship along fast, before the serving staff start throwing dishes. Legolas was cute trying to play host to Alfirin - watering his wine, sweet boy. He knows ada's going to check. Poor Thranduil, he must have just wanted to put his face in his soup after Ithilden's boneheaded comment. Well, Alfirin has a lot to think about; but I'm not sure thinking is going to have much to do with it in the end. That's how it usually goes. Can't wait to see what happens next time Ithilden says something stupid and she's had time to prepare, though.
Author's reply
I rather enjoyed Ithilden's thigh muscles myself. ;-)
I've never written anything sustained from Alfirin's POV before and it was interesting to do. It made me look at things in the palace from an outsider's POV. I'd never imagined that hallway before, for instance. I think the steward does a reasonably good job, but he's not there all the time and it's just not the same as having one of the royal family in charge. I think it would be like running a business actually. There'd be hiring and firing and all kinds of personnel stuff to tend to.
Thranduil would be amused if he didn't fear that he's never going to have grandchildren.
And no, thinking is not what's going to win out in the end. She's hot for him!
esamen
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
. . . AND I forgot to say that Legolas did a darling job of hosing his guest, and that the serving couple were hilarious . . .
. . . AND poor Ithilden, trying to initiate a little kiss! You are positively mean to that sweet man. Now, I expect to be on the scene for the first serious smooch. You've got a pretty good track record on things like that.
Author's reply
LOL. Legolas was a good son of Thranduil in hosting Alfirin. He even watered his own wine, just as he should have.
As for the first serious smooch, it's in my notes! ;-)
Brazgirl
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Several people of Royal Mirkwood Home are asking you to write a fic about Eilian and Ithilden's childhoods. I agree with them! It doesn't matter there will be no Legolas! There will be Thranduil there...
On the chapter: poor Alfirin... she is really confused. No wonder! She saw that belonging to the royal family is more than bond with Thranduil's heir... I hope she wakes up and thinks she is able...
I loved when Thranduil checked Legolas' glass!!!
Author's reply
I think those childhood fics are a good idea. I don't know when I'll do them, but sometime. Why not?
Alfirin is a smart girl. She sees what she's getting into and she knows that once she bonds with Ithilden, it's forever. So she's taking her time and making sure she's up to it, even though she does like looking at his body!
Thranduil knows what adolescent sons are like with wine and he keeps close tabs! Smart Ada.
Alison H
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
I really, really enjoyed this chapter,Daw.The nervousness that Alfirin felt when geting ready for Ithilden was captured so well--I was nervous for her! I have to commend you on your original characters for they all seem so real and they all have their virtues to be admired, their flaws that make them realistic---I am really impressed.
I do worry for Legolas in all this.He badly needs someone to talk to but he just doesn't realise it yet.I feel for Thranduil and Ithilden who only want to help him but I think, maybe, that Alfirin will somehow break through his grief.I hope so because I like her so much.Ithilden will be lucky to have her in years to come.I love your stories I can't wait for the next chapter.
Author's reply
I'm glad you liked it, Alison. I like writing about basically good but flawed characters. I think that's how most of us see ourselves, and so it feels realistic to me too. I know I have a lot of OCs. I pity readers who look at these stories for the first time because I know they have a lot to remember if they're going to choose to keep reading.
Legolas does need to talk to someone he trusts. We'll see how that comes about. :-)
esamen
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Oh, thank you. This just keeps getting better. I really like this tale of Alfirin. So many women must deal with these exact same feelings, and are called to this exact same challenge in life. I am so identifying with her! This is the story she deserves.
And Ithilden is so gorgeous in his green leggings with gold embroidery. Sigh.
What a fine job of describing the inside of the palace! I never could get a real grip on that. This helps me quite a bit.
Please hurry and update again. I can't wait to read the next chapter. I MEAN that. Happy holiday typing,
Esamen
Author's reply
It's been interesting to think about Alfirin joining the king's household and how that would have looked to her. I can see now how much of a challenge it must have been. Ithilden is gorgeous but he's a little full of himself. She'll need to be brave enough to make her voice heard too.
This was also the first time I've thought about what that hallway looked like. But because she comes into it as a stranger, I had to really picture it myself too.
I'm glad you liked it, Esamen. I have to work early this week and then the EE of ROTK comes out, but a new chapter will be along eventually. :-)
Manderly
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
What a delightful chapter! When I was reading about Alfirin getting dressed for the big date, it dawned on me that we do not get many "girly scenes" in these stories as the main characters are all male. How often do we get to read about pinning flowers in one's hair?
It was interesting seeing the King's household through Alfirin's eyes. So she's already worrying about running the royal household? I don't blame her for being intimidated but we all know she's pretty efficient at slapping some sense into these stubborn males when her time comes.
The little dinner scene with the two servants was hiliarious with Legolas being hysterical and Thranduil trying hard not to be. "Has he no command over his wife?" Uh-oh, wrong words, Ithilden if you value your life. But I suppose he'll come to his senses soon enough once he's bonded.
Author's reply
I think this may be the first scene I've written entirely from Alfirin's POV. And you're right. I don't do too many girly one. This particular girl is considering joining a very male household too, poor thing. She will have her work cut out for her. But she turns out to be really good at it. It might take her a couple of hundred years to get it right, but she does it!
Ithilden needs to step back a little and think about what he's saying. And Thranduil is just afraid he'll never have grandchildren.
sofia
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
I have to admit that this is one of my favorite chapters in any of your stories. I think its absolutely brilliant! I love the discriptions of the palace from Alfirin point of view and the way her parents are not bothered by having the King's oldest son inviting their daughter for dinner.
Ithilden needs to lighten up more, and Alfirin, of course, is the perfect one to do it. although she doesn't see it yet.
-sofia
Author's reply
You know, Sofia, as I was writing this, I was thinking that it's a kind of chapter I never could have written a year ago. It's purely domestic. I spend a whole chapter on Alfirin going to dinner at the palace! And I truly enjoyed it. I had fun trying to convey all the emotions of everyone there while staying in her POV. Ithilden definitely needs to lighten up. Truer words were never spoken.
perelleth
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Oh my! I knew there was going to be fun!!!! Poor Ithilden, he definitely lacks this particular skill…or maybe he skipped those pages in the handbook!!
I'm sure Thranduil is going to have the time of his life in this story, were it not for Legolas’ suffering. Poor child, difficult age, fighting for his independence and at the same time so deeply hurt by such a hard experience… and in such need of comfort he doesn't even know how to ask for it...that’s surely a challenge for Thranduil’s parental skills… (Not to mention he will surely have to play mummy’s role too with such a fool of an eldest son!What a busy time for the King of Mirkwood!)
I loved Alfirin’s point of view, and mostly the way you describe their physical awareness of each other; I think that’s a sign for Alfirin: to be so acutely aware of Ithilden’s nearness can only mean that she is already lost! No matter how hard the job seems to be or how frightened she becomes of it all!
I wonder, does Ithilden even suspect he’s acquiring a bride who is almost as bossy as he is? I laughed out while reading her perceptions of the family chambers, the servants, the managing of such a household…. Mmm... I’d pay money to be let inside Thranduil’s mind… Ithilden is going to find his match in more aspects than he expects…
And wow! Such timing! I ask and then you update! I could hardly believe it! ;-)
I expect to get immersed in “Legolas’ begetting day” next weekend… I’m looking forward to it!
Author's reply
Ithilden is such a funny mixture. He is so competent and hard working at his job, that he is seldom wrong there. Thank goodness. But then in his personal life, he doesn't seem to realize that he might not be right all the time! Thranduil is probably deeply amused, except he would like grandchildren and it might look like he's going to have to depend on the stork to bring them if he doesn't straighten out his oldest son.
I don't think Ithilden has the faintest clue that Alfirin is assessing the situation for how she would take charge of it. He's not even terribly aware there's a situation to take charge of!
But she is really hot for him. :-) And he's really aware of her too. In his mind, she should wear her hair down all the time for one thing.
The EE of ROTK comes out in the States this week, so I'm going to spend time with that I hope. And it's final exam week at my university, so I have a bit to do there too, not to mention holiday stuff. Ack. Another chapter will come along eventually.
Jay of Lasgalen
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
I've been waiting for this new chapter! It was interesting to see it from Alfirin's POV, especially the description of the family quarters. I'm glad she chose the green dress - it seems more appropriate for dining with the Elvenking.
Legolas seemed very subdued at first, and if Alfirin noticed Thranduil's and Ithilden's concern, others will have as well. He cheered up later, though - the scene at dinner with the quarrelling servants was hilarious! I'm glad he laughed so much. Ithilden's comment was revealing, though: “Has he no command over his wife?” Watch out, Alfirin! I wonder if she's realised that if they marry, and anything was to happen to Thranduil, she would be Queen?
The courting of an ordinary girl by the monarch's son reminds me of the ill-fated marriage between Prince Charles and Princess Diana. At least we know Ithilden and Alfirin won't end in disaster.
Jay
Author's reply
Do you know, this was the first time I ever figured out for myself how the family quarters would look? Writing it from Alfirin's POV was interesting for that reason. I had to think of looking at it through the eyes of someone not accustomed to it.
I think that Legolas's distress is strongest when he has to deal with weapons himself or think about others doing so. The scene in the dining room must have been a nice relief for him.
Alfirin is realizing quite of lot of what would be expected of her if she married Ithilden and it's making her pause, even though she does admire his body. :-)
Bodkin
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
The head says 'beware', the mouth says 'yes'. She thinks he's just too plain gorgeous to let the difficulties daunt her for too long - and Thranduil's on her side, which is a Good Thing. She's currently at the humble stage of thinking she's too young, immature, inexperienced, etc, to be worthy of the glorious troop commander, but it won't last! She's already noted that he is rather too bossy. (Definitely inexperience on his part - Thranduil's knowing grin is that of a trained husband.) Everyone knows their fate - except, it would seem, Ithilden and Alfirin themselves. (When the would-be squeeze starts courting the younger sibling, you KNOW he's serious!)
Legolas did quite well as substitute host - it helps Alfirin feel at home to have someone Tonduil's age around. Poor wandering lad - his (well-earned) reputation is preventing him from having more of those nights under the stars that he loves so.
I liked the first sight of servants - it must be a job and a half to manage the royal household and the settling of ructions not the least part of it - and I loved the reactions to the spat. Poor Ithilden mortified - Legolas controlled himself well to keep his laughter in until after they had left the room. And Alfirin unable to believe that Thranduil was laughing.
A lovely chapter - including plenty of blushing, but also some coherent speech! And a fair bit of breathlessness and - shall we say - physical awareness. You know, they might actually be ready for that wedding.
Author's reply
You're hitting the nail right on the head, Bodkin! She's really reacting to Ithilden physically, which in Elves is pretty close to the emotions too. She's seeing what a big job she would be taking on in marrying him though. Managing the palace would be a real challenge and managing Ithilden might be tough too. She just needs to get some self-confidence.
I thought Legolas could probably manage social things rather well. He's been exposed to them a lot because of who he is and he knows what should be done.
I think the happy couple has made progress, actually. No one did anything too embarrassing, unless you count Ithilden's bonehead speech!
Nilmandra
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Ah, I forgot to tell you I enjoyed the humor at the dinner table greatly. Ithilden has so much to learn....and because we have seen Alfirin years into the future from this scene, we know who does rule that household and dinner table!
They are smitten with each other too, and they are both very practical. Its a joy to see them lose that self restraint at times. :-)
Author's reply
LOL. Yes, she will definitely take charge eventually and they'll be glad to let her do it. But she's young and this all looks like a big challenge. Thanks for all your help with this.
Alice
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Oy. Ithilden needs his mother. Or a fairy godmother or somebody! He needs guidance. Desperately. I can just see what Thranduil was thinking after the whole wife obedience crack. "I'm never going to have grandchildren." I have a feeling Thranduil is going to take Ithilden aside and explain to him that elves serious in their pursuit of a maiden do not abandon her to go and take care of some work business and do not make comments about wives being obedient. Like I said, Ithilden needs his mother. He's apparently forgotten that his mother was hardly absolutely obedient to his father. Also, I can just see her coralling Calith and asking him if he wanted her to not have grandchildren and preventing him from dragging Ithilden off to work.
I loved the scene with Alfirin getting ready. It's like the getting ready picture for prom. Hehe. She was so cute getting ready. Alfirin is really sensible. I love how she's baffled as to why her mother thinks her hair should be worn in a way that isn't practical and how she immedietly starts thinking about how things could be run better at the palace. That's our motherly girl!
I loved the line about Tonduil and his father just watching Ithilden and making him nervous. I can totally see them doing that. It was so cute how Tonduil went and showed Ithilden his treehouse. Good old Ithilden. Who later showed off by jumping out of the tree. At least he knows how to impress her.
I look forward to the next chapter. I'd be worried if I didn't know that they got together later. Poor Ithilden. Stop messing up, darn it. He'll change her mind on the walk though. Hopefully. Update soon!
Author's reply
Oh yeah, Lorelling would have been waiting for Ithilden to get back from walking Alfirin home and let him know just how stupid he was! I think Thranduil is mostly amused, although he'd probably be more so if he were sure this would all work out. The thing of it is though, that sometimes Ithilden does need to go to work at night. Anyone who marries him is going to have to know and accept that.
Everyone in that family would benefit by Ithilden marrying her, though. They all need her to take care of them. And Ithilden does love her.
At the moment, she seems most impressed by his body, which isn't so bad either!
French Pony
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 2: Dining with the King
Alfirin has curly hair! I like her even more than I already did. It's so pretty when it's loose, but what a pain in the neck it is to untangle the next day. But it holds braids and elaborate hairstyles so well.
I snortled at the idea of Alfirin getting all worked up over the pink dress versus the green dress, as she's going to dinner in a soldierly household consisting of the King, a teenage boy, and a boyfriend who is so smitten with her that he babbles nonsense in her general direction. None of these people could possibly care less what she's wearing. Assuming, that is, that they even notice.
And Ithilden is thinking that wives can be commanded. Ithilden, honey, you've got this whole thing bass-ackwards. She will be the one commanding you from now on, and you will like it.
At the moment, Ithilden is clearly hotter for Alfirin than she is for him, and my dad would probably say that's a good thing. Alfirin seems to be walking into things with wide-open eyes, noticing every little detail that needs managing right off the bat. Spring peas would have been great. And if you have a cooking staff, nothing says you can't have spring peas and roast vegetables both. Maybe I'll do that some night. Broil up some venison steaks, and cook peas and roasted potatoes to go with them. That doesn't sound too hard.
There does seem to be a communication gap between Alfirin and the rest of The Family. Unless Thranduil is in the habit of addressing all of his sons' girlfriends as "my dear" and kissing them on the forehead (I remain convinced that being King is the only thing that saved him from a swift kick in the shins when he did that), it would seem that Ithilden has decided that Alfirin is The One for him. But Alfirin doesn't seem to have figured out till the end of dinner that Ithilden is really serious about her. Now that he has reached a stage in the romance where he's actually coherent, they have quite a bit of talking to do.
I do hope we get to see Annael in this. The thing I found lacking about Prodigal Sons was Annael's response to the endgame. The Unholy Trinity were always so close that it seemed a little odd to leave Annael out of the end. And in so many ways, Annael is the rock that both Turgon and Legolas lean on, the only one with a really stable family to back him up. I can imagine so many things he might have been thinking about his participation or lack thereof in that excursion.
Legolas likes to wander indeed. The Family knows this about him, but I wonder how surprised they must have been that year that he wandered off to Imladris and didn't come back for such a long time.
Author's reply
Ithilden probably will like being commanded! At least in some things. I think he's just kind of certain that he's always right. She needs to let him know that that's not the case. :-) She's been running her family's house, so she'd have a good eye for what needs doing, but the palace would be a whole different ball game. She has a big job ahead of her and she's pretty young.
I hesitated over that "my dear" thing, but I do think Thranduil is pretty sure this is The One. He just needs to educate his oldest son a bit.
Good point about Annael. If I'd written more before I wrote Prodigal Sons, I'd probably have felt the need to include him, but I was still really feeling my way along there. He grew up faster than the other two, I think. Well, Turgon didn't really grow up at all.
Yes, I thought of that particular act of wandering when I wrote that. Legolas does have a history of this kind of thing.
Thanks for the review, FP.
perelleth
· 12 December 2004
· Chapter 1: Getting Better
Wow! Another story! I’ll never catch up with you I fear!
I started reading your stories chronologically (I am about to start “Legolas’ begetting day). I supposed it didn’t make much sense, since you have written them in what might seem a “random” order, but then, I wanted to have a perception of Legolas growing up, and catching the tone of the family relationships… then I jumped up to “To See the Stars” which I’ve been dutifully reading these days - I am blessed with uncommon amounts of spare time- and I was happily surprised by a flashback account of a part I had missed when I read “ When shadow hits home” (Eilian’s remembrance of their mother’s death..) So it has proven how useless and pointless my chronological approach is!!! ;-)
I can tell you that I’ve enjoyed reading “Seeing the stars” too, though I can understand your feelings about it... it seems your “voice” has grown more used to the characters, and they seem to be more comfortable around now, but then…I’d surrender my iPod just to be able to produce something even half as good as that!
So back to this story, I really like the subject, not that I like to see poor Legolas suffering his post trauma recovery, poor thing, but Ithilden’s story is going to be funny, I suspect. By the looks of it, it is about time this serious responsible elf gets a life of his! I wonder whether he knows how to, though!!
Mmm… and young ladies and blushing youngsters on the other side…this promises to be an interesting study on “how-to-embarrass-yourself-and–survive-the-event?” Hope the dinner’s not too catastrophic….
Just go on!!!! Please, please, please… ;-)
Author's reply
Thank you, perelleth. I was just getting ready to post chapter 2. :-)
I do feel more comfortable with my characters now, especially Ithilden. Eilian was easy from the start for some reason.
I have to get Ithilden betrothed here because that's the state he'll be in for the next story chronologically, so he has to be somewhat less inept than he has been. But he's not as smooth with the maidens as Eilian is, I'm afraid. I hope Legolas has a chance to approach Miriwen a little bit in this story, but he's awfully upset, poor baby.
I confess to being very fond of "Legolas's Begetting Day." I hope you like it.
emjo
· 10 December 2004
· Chapter 1: Getting Better
AAAAHHHH! Shoot Daw, I knew I should have read through my review before I sent it, but I was in a hurry. Will you ever forgive me for spelling your OC's names wrong? Sorry! But again great chapter.
Author's reply
LOL. I think I'll be able to forgive you. Ithilden's name is particularly tricky because your fingers do just want to go Ithilien. Although by this time, my finger misspell in the opposite direction.
Duchess
· 10 December 2004
· Chapter 1: Getting Better
LOL Legolas is just too cute, getting sidetracked by maidens like that. *still chuckling* I just wish Miriwen hadn't turned out like she did in that later story. *shaking my head* Well, hopefully Legolas will have better luck with the mystery maiden... eventually. *giggle*
This was another very nice look into the lives of the characters you've created and you are weaving the whole thing so effortlessly it seems that I'm quite jealous. Thank you for sharing! :)
Author's reply
I'm not sure Legolas would appreciate being called "cute," so I just won't tell him you said that, Duchess! I always liked Miriwen, but she did dump Legolas in a very cruel way, I'm sorry to say. Her only excuse is that she was young and inexperienced too.
Thank you for your very kind words, Duchess.
White Wolf
· 10 December 2004
· Chapter 1: Getting Better
Forgive the delay in reviewing. It is getting to be the busy time of year.
I really felt for Legolas, trying to use that sword with the memory of the death he had been forced to cause. And, of course, his family is hovering, which I know he hates, even though he knows it's out of love and concern.
I'm glad that the Terrible Trio are back together again.
I also like the progress the romance between Ithilden and Alfirin has made.
Author's reply
I know what you mean about the time of the year. I haven't finished my shopping and we still need to get a tree.
The sad about Legolas is that he wants his family to comfort him but doesn't want them to hover, so he puts himself in a double bind and can't get what he needs.
There'll be more of Ithilden and Alfirin in the next chapter. :-)
emjo
· 10 December 2004
· Chapter 1: Getting Better
Yay, I am so excited about this new story. I loved "See the Stars" but back then I was also to shy to review. I never really have much to say to you but good work. Poor Legolas so but talking to the healers is a little like therapy right so that might help. But I do hope that he will eventually will talk to Thanduil about it. I love seeing Alfrin and Ithilien. And then there is the troublesome trio I love them and poor Turgon won't be around much longer so I guess we better enjoy him in this story!
Author's reply
Another reviewer also talked about being too shy to review, which I admitted I was too when I first started reading. I thought I had to have deep thoughts about the story! Now as a writer, I am just glad to know that people are enjoying it.
Legolas probably does need to stop bottling things up inside. Poor baby. And Turgon's doom is almost upon him, as Tolkien might say. It makes me very sad. I'm glad I can resurrect him for these stories set earlier. And I like to think he's in the Halls of Waiting for only a short time before he goes to Valinor and Legolas meets him there again.
More about Alfirin and Ithilden coming right up!
Firnsarnien
· 10 December 2004
· Chapter 1: Getting Better
Hmmmm, I thought I reviewed this chappy, but I guess not.
Well, I cannot even begin to tell you how happy I am to get another story from you! :) And even better, it's got TURGON in it! :) :) :) YAY! :) Ooooh, and the time period you chose to write this story in, couldn't have been more great! Well, actually, yeah, I can think of an even better time period. I'm sure you know which time I'm talking 'bout. ;) But anyway, this time period is just great too. Lots of interesting things can happen, especially when it comes to Legolas.
I just loved the way Annael is so quietly supportive of Legolas. He never pries nor tries to get Leggy to tell him things he's not ready or willing to tell him. Annael is the perfect example of friendship. Turgon on the other hand, what a handful! No pun intended! LOL I think that Elf keeps Leggy and Annael on their "moral" toes! He's always teetering on the edge and Leggy always has to wrestle with right and wrong because of it. And even when he chooses the wrong, it's always for a good reason. Perhaps that is one reason I find Turgon so endearing. :)
I seriously thought for an instant, Leggy was going to freeze and not be able to handle that sword in front of his peers. Beads of perspiration popped up all over my face as I watched that poor traumatized Elfling battle to keep at it and not run off in terror. I was gladd to see Leggy take control of his fears and conquer them. At least in that instance.
I also think the way Leggy and Tonduil handle the budding romance between Ithilden and Alfirin is so cute. I can just see them rolling their eyes and wondering why all the subtle gameplay. LOL
Ooooh, not good. Leggy scrubbing his hands because of the blood that once stained it...not a good thing. He needs some serious talking to and I'm a bit sorry, no, QUITE a bit sorry to see Eilian is nowhere in sight. *sniff* I miss him already!
Miriwen! LOLOLOL Is this one of the same Elleth Leggy was throwing mud at when he was younger, in When Shadow Touches Home? Hmmmm, definitely going to have to go check on that. I'm pretty sure it is. Yup, it was. I went and checked and it was! LOL I can't believe Legolas is all flustered just because she is talking to him. It seems only yesterday he was flinging mud at her and "guarding" her from orcs! LOL He grew up so fast! Of course, we all know the beauty of fanfic, we can always make him little again in the blink of an eye. Er, maybe I should rephrase that, we can make him little again with the push of the Post button! LOL ;)
Wonderful story as usual. I can't wait for more from you. I'm sure it's going to be grand! :) Hurry!
Author's reply
I was a little worried that this first chapter is too angsty, Firnsarnien, so it's probably right up your alley! LOL.
I have to admit to being fond of Turgon too. He's not mean or evil. He's just so undisciplined and without guidance. It's a credit to him, really, that he chooses Annael and Legolas as his friends rather than "bad" boys.
Legolas worries about his courage, but he's facing an inner terror here and doing it well. That can't be easy. He just needs to realize that.
It's actually funny that Legolas and Tonduil are sarcastic about the "subtle gameplaying" between Ithilden and Alfirin, but then Legolas freezes up when confronted by Miriwen. So who's he to talk??? And yes, this is not only the same maiden he threw mud at, but also the same one he kisses at Ithilden's wedding in "Joinings." :-)
Hello, daw! I've been MIA in reviewing for quite some time now, but now I'm back and will be catching up!
I really liked See the Stars--I know it's your first LotR story, so you're probably critical of it, but I really liked Flirty!Thranduil and Spykiller!Legolas. So I'm glad you're doing a follow-up to that.
For a human to kill another is awfully traumatic, and for Elves it must be a thousand times worse. Poor Legolas--and no matter what Thranduil and Ithilden do, it just ends up making things worse. (Where's Eilian? He might be helpful here...)
I liked Legolas getting mischievous and needling Ithilden about Alfirin. That romance is amusing to watch.
One thing I like about the childhood stories is that it brings back old characters that have died--like Galelas and Turgon, both of whom are so much fun to hate. You must get whiplash sometimes, though, since I would imagine writing out of order and keeping the chronology straight is confusing.
Author's reply
Hey, nice to see you, Ms. Whatsit! I was just thinking about you the other day when ff.net changed the way they did review histories and I went to look at older reviews I'd written. Are you writing too?
I went back and reread S the S and actually feel a little better about it. I think I need to trot Flirty!Thranduil out again some time. I don't show him around females much, but I'll bet he's charming when he wants to be. He won't be making any more "mistakes" though! That's too far out of canon for me.
Eilian is away on patrol and likely to stay there. I know Legolas needs him, but Ithilden needs to get on with his romance in peace. It is ironic that the more Ithilden and Thranduil keep an eye on Legolas, the worse he feels.
Legolas is older and a bit bolder now, as he teases Ithilden, who is not yet his commanding officer. I like jumping back and forth in time, but I do sometimes wish I hadn't boxed myself in with later stories.
meckinock
· 9 December 2004
· Chapter 1: Getting Better
Wow, somebody really needs Post-Critical Incident Counseling. Something makes me think Legolas isn't going to get through this unless he stops bottling everything up.
You know what my favorite thing about this chapter was? The students having to put the swords away on the sword rack and carry it back into the training shed. I love little everyday details like that. Nope, the sword fairies don't just swoop in and spirit them away. I also loved the passage where Legolas sees Ithilden watching him. The description of the tall figure detaching himself from the tree was great.
I can't wait to see if Ithilden makes it through dinner without spilling soup all over Alfirin.
Author's reply
That would be PCIC or something? LOL. Yes, indeed. That's what he needs. And he needs time to just let his body and mind heal a little. Poor baby.
You suprised me by picking that detail but I'm pleased. I like details like that too. And surely Ithilden has gotten hold of himself a little by now! He's had years, after all.
Dot
· 9 December 2004
· Chapter 1: Getting Better
Oh, God - no, I don't have it!! It's supposed to be out on Saturday... Lol. Sorry if I gave that impression. If only... ;-)
Author's reply
Even Saturday is days earlier than we get it. That is so not fair! I have mine preordered and expect to spend a lot of time on it too. If you listen to all the commentaries and things, it takes forever. :-)