lwarren
· 25 March 2005
· Chapter 2: Leaving for the Woods
I have several "3 cheers for..." places in this little chapter! :-)
Let's hear it for the state of things in Arda! You have a real knack for conveying the love between Eilian and Celuwen and the scene at breakfast was a prime example. The two lovebirds come in holding hands and looking insufferably pleased with themselves and everything (and everyone) else! LOL Also, here's to featherheads...may Eilian not pluck Anyr's after the first hour in his presence! :-) The whole breakfast exchange was very good! I like how this is one of those pivotal events in this family - more little interesting tidbits come across that table! And I like how they all sit down together for the morning meal. Alfirin is the typical naneth - I'm surprised extra tunics was the only thing she sent - chocolate chip cookies come to mind...ah, home cooking...can't beat it!
Let's hear it for good ole' Beliond - I dearly love this grumpy old elf! So he likes the new horse, does he? And he's a sneaky elf, too - dropping in on Sinnarn and Legolas that way! LOL I really like the comfortable feeling between him and Legolas now...all due in part to the fact that Legolas has finally come to grips with his "nana"! It does make for lots of giggles, tho'.
Let's hear it for good old Galelas - HE'S not too thrilled with our Lieutenant, is he? And Eilian wants Legolas to carry messages to him? That ought to go over well....
Let's hear it for daw...another wonderful addition! Now, bring on the featherheads!
linda
(has Calith hit Tinar yet?)
Author's reply
You're so good at predicting things, Linda! I'm looking at the 'maiden' thing in your review of the last chapter and the cookies here. I'm sure Alfirin sends goodies to Sinnarn.
Actually, I'm a little concerned about my tendency to make all conversations happen around the table. I'd like to put them in other situations where they have an excuse to meet and talk, but in my own family, meal time is when we do that, so I suppose I'm just copying from that.
Legolas and Beliond are getting along well, and Legolas and Galelas are not. I think I have to work on that!
Bodkin
· 25 March 2005
· Chapter 4: Visitors in Camp
Tuilinn! I hope she has frozen for the same reason as Legolas (and that the elf with her is not her current squeeze). So what if their romance takes several hundred years to develop beyond longing glances and sighs! They're elves - they should take their time. Legolas is the sort of elf to be incredibly loyal and constant. I can't see him dashing off to the woods to bond precipitately.
I loved the letter from Eilian. It's fascinating, watching him begin to turn into his Adar. It must be really hard on him. As long as he has those boundaries to kick against, he can happily carry on being the light-hearted, irresponsible one of the family - but, take them away, and he is saying that elflings need discipline and adult elves need structure. And that caution is a good thing at times. I like picturing him staying awake at night and listening to the forest as his own personal method of setting a guard.
I'm glad to see he has spotted what a huge change in lifestyle Celuwen has endured for him, too. (Although I can't imagine Solith's elves being quite as frivolous as Anyr's.) And I love so many of the Eilianisms in the letter that there are too many to quote.
Galelas is just going to make things more difficult for himself if he can't get a hold of his jealousy of Legolas. Presumably he managed to cope with Sinnarn and his loving Naneth's regular supply of honey-cakes before Legolas arrived - he's going to infuriate a lot of the patrol if he starts snarking at Sinnarn, too - and Sinnarn isn't a lieutenant and is far less likely to take it calmly. Not to mention that Uncle Legolas will get protective. And yet, it is terribly difficult to get a handle on emotions - and nothing is going to make Galelas's horrible family any better.
And Beliond is such fun. (Well, provided he's not here constantly watching everything I do.) He and Legolas are getting like an old married couple. I love imagining him and Gimli ganging up on Legolas in years to come - and shaking their heads over the elfling and his sea-longing.
Author's reply
Legolas is a nice blend of Ithilden and Eilian, I think. He'd never do anything as rash as Eilian did. And I think if he loves someone, that will it for him, in much the same way that his friendships seem to be very strong and long-lasting. Look how he stayed around for Aragorn or how he overcame prejudice for Gimli.
Eilian is always going to be cautious on the topic of safety -- other people's at least. He's been a warrior too long and seen too many bad things happen. On the other hand, he's going to take a chance or two in a race through the trees. He's an adrenaline junky I think.
You're absolutely right that it's the appearance of Legolas that's unsettled Galelas. He and Sinnarn weren't cozy before, but they were OK. But as soon as Legolas is joking with Sinnarn about Alfirin sending honey cakes (not to mention issuing orders), Galelas loses control of himself. It can't be easy being Galelas. Everyone else is reading mail while he's sorting the herb.
I laughed at the idea of Gimli and Beliond ganging up on Legolas. That would be wonderful!
lwarren
· 25 March 2005
· Chapter 1: Time at Home
Legolas is turning into a cheeky little brother, isn't he? Teasing Ithilden about picnics and thick blankets, etc! I had to laugh at that part, especially after almost crying over Legolas' sadness and guilt over Naran's death. Taking the body of a young warrior back to their family and having to tell them had to be an awful burden and of course, hyper-responsible Legolas would blame himself. Thank goodness Ithilden was there to talk to him and reassure him and see that he needed posting somewhere besides the South for awhile. It's almost like Shadow picks the vulnerable point of each individual and presses on it until despair sets in...with Legolas, hitting him in that responsible/duty area and playing on his tendency to feel at fault and insecure is certainly bound to affect him in the worst possible way.
I love the new horse...and am glad everyone finally figured out that obedience lessons needed to come from someone BESIDES our Prince! LOL
In fact, daw, the whole first chapter is great. I like seeing everything from Legolas' POV, altho' that had to be hard to do (of course, I like anything from Legolas' POV) and you really did it well, especially the part where he overhears the argument between Eilian and Celuwen. So, a sabbatical in one of the villages...and Anyr's? Isn't he the goofy, not-a-brain-in-his-head elf that had the flooded village? OOOOOHHHH, does that mean that cute little elf maiden that caught Legolas' fancy will show up again? He's certainly feeling somewhat jealous of Ithilden and Eilian and all that wedded bliss/bonding going on about him! Great beginning....I am off to review chapter 2 and hopefully beyond (IwillcatchupIwillcatchupIwillcatchup...)
linda
(couldn't Calith hit Tinar with a paperweight or a map or an acorn...or something...just once...pleaseeeeeeee?????)
Author's reply
When I start a new story, one of the things I have to do now is go and look at my list of them, see where these comes, and remind myself repeatedly of how old Legolas is in them. So this story (as I keep telling myself) is set later than anything except the one about the Battle of 5 Armies and the one about the forming of the Fellowship. So I thought Legolas would be establishing a more or less adult relationship with his brothers and father and (he hopes) Beliond. And I thought the teasing of Ithilden was part of that, although I did hesitate because I would hesitate to tease Ithilden about 'picnics'!
Anyway, I think your analysis of Shadow is right on. I think it does pick people's weakest spots and worm its way in. Legolas is not as well suited to the Southern Patrol as Eilian is. Eilian is more naturally optimistic.
Glad you liked the POV. I'm finding it a bit of a struggle, I have to admit. And as for the maiden, she didn't live in Anyr's village or Legolas would have been visiting there. She lived "somewhere north" according to Anyr. :-)
I think I might have to write something from Calith's POV one of these days. He's beginning to interest me.
Manderly
· 24 March 2005
· Chapter 4: Visitors in Camp
Well, that was an interesting chapter, with an even more intersting ending. So you have decided to bring Tuilinn back. Yes, things will definitely get more interesting for Legolas. I wonder what you have planned for these two.
Galelas and Legolas are still like water and oil. Don't think they will ever mingle, but hopefully they can find some form of truce before there's real bloodshed. As much as I am sympathetic to Galelas because of his family, he really isn't making himself likable here. I feel sorry for Legolas in having to deal with someone so difficult under him.
It was a joy reading Eilian's letter. Looks like he's finally enjoying his stress leave. Maybe Ithilden should make a point of sending out stressed warriors to live in settlements as rehab. So Eilian is not too impressed with air-head Anyr either. Too bad we don't get to see them in action together. It would be most entertaining.
Author's reply
With Legolas in the north, this seemed like a good opportunity to have Tuilinn show up again. As Anyr rather vaguely told Legolas, she lives in the north. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens with them too! Like staying in Legolas's POV, a romance for him is a stretch for me. Oh well. If it doesn't work, there are always other stories to write.
I find that Galelas has gotten more complicated on me as I write more stories in which he appears. I know that when he's not with Legolas, he can be a decent person. But Legolas brings out the worst in him, and the reverse is probably true too.
I too wish I could go to the settlement! But I'm afraid letters are the best I'm going to be able to do. I need to go look and see how old Rodien would be now. He's the little elf who wanted to see Legolas's sword in "Spring Awakenings." I'll bet he's impressed as anything with Eilian.
Alice
· 24 March 2005
· Chapter 4: Visitors in Camp
She's back! Yay! That was a very nice set up by the way with the details about her height and the smell of her hair. Very clever, making it known that she and Legolas have a history without explicitly saying so. And a cliff hanger to boot! I'm bouncing in my seat in excitement here! Does she still feel the same way? Is Legolas about to re-encounter the potential love of his life or get his heart broken? Is this going to further complicate relations with Galelas? And just what is she doing there? I can't wait for the next chapter!
So, also, I adore Eilian. I really enjoyed his letter. It was just so totally him. I loved that bit about him being shy. He's just so utterly charming. And apparently savage according to Anyr. Is that lesson teaching trouble I sense on its way to Anyr's settlement? I do like reading about the settlements. It's such a different way of living than at Thranduil's stronghold. I really wish Tolkien had been more explicit about the Eryn Lasgalen. It's frustrating because as I see it now, or at least in your stories, the majority of people live at the stronghold which I don't see as having a huge population, but there are also enough settlements so that the settlers are not seen as those radical settlers political faction or what not. And obviously they're not the majority of his subjects or he would have already had someone on the council to deal with their needs before Celuwen. And I know Thranduil's not stupid enough, nor callous enough, to do that to the majority of his subjects. Tolkien, always with the Noldor, never the woodelves. It's fair frustrating at times.
So, I got sidetracked on Eilian with my thoughts on the demographics of Thranduil's kingdom. I really did enjoy reading his letter. I can picture him and Celuwen going there and shaking things up a bit. Poor Celuwen, having to deal with Mr. Let it Be and illegal trading. Eilian better be careful to hide his relief or she might decide as the son of a king he should help.
So, Galelas and Legolas really are heading for trouble. They should just be put up in a tree and not allowed to come down until they've worked things out. And Galelas should not be slandering Legolas to his protoge. Of course, Legolas's less than sunny outlook on Galelas has probably effected the patrol also. Stupid machoismo elves.
Oh! Another fun thing! I really enjoy the little moments with the patrol. Like the procrastination on the reports and the anticipation of mail. Those details are nice. I enjoy reading about the patrol camps.
I have to admit, this story has been a bit slow to start, but in this chapter you hit it. Nice job. And I'm deadly serious about being breatheless about Tuilinn (hee, like Legolas only in a different way). So please, I beg you, update soon!
Author's reply
I'm glad you liked the reappearance of Tuilinn. I hope most readers are at least tolerant. There are some very possessive Legolas lovers out there! And it's hard to do a good female OC in Tolkien, I find.
I too find it frustrating that Tolkien told us so little about the Woodelves. I more or less made the settlements up but I didn't make them from nothing. In The Hobbit, Tolkien says the Wood-elves lived in the woods, usually near its edge so they could hunt in the more open ground. But the idea for the settlements came from the fact that when Bilbo and the dwarves escaped on the rafts, the raft elves stopped overnight in a village along the river. So I thought there would be other villages too. But Thranduil's cave is their stronghold, and I imagine that as times were hard, they either lived nearer the stronghold, or lived in hiding in the woods. It's hard to guess, really, but kind of fun.
And Celuwen is a wood elf too, so she's not exactly comfortable damming the river or anything. But they're not all alike. Her father's settlement is much more sensible than Anyr's.
The tension between Legolas and Galelas could indeed affect the patrol, so they need to straighten it out, but it's hard. Emotions are hard to deal with, especially when they've been there a while.
I have to admit I've been worried that this story was starting too slowly. I think I was trying to orient everyone, including new readers, and for readers who have read my other stories, I could very easily have started later in the sequence of events. I'll have to remember that and try to figure out what to do about it in my next story.
Thank you, Alice.
French Pony
· 24 March 2005
· Chapter 4: Visitors in Camp
Lookee, it's Tuilinn! Dun dun DUN! Isn't Legolas still a little young to be on "This Is Your Life?" Though, judging from the probable look on his face when Tuilinn cropped up, he's more likely to be on "Candid Camera."
I know that you're always worried about female characters, but I have to say, I like Tuilinn. She's a nice person, and she's got a good head on her shoulders, and she has curly hair. Gotta love an Elf with curly hair.
Eilian and Celuwen living with the hippies. They do sound right at home. Thranduil is going to be alternately smirking at the thought of Eilian becoming Responsible and Lordly (by comparison) and horrified at the ease with which Eilian settles down with the hippies. I wonder, though. . . human hippies give their kids fairly Elvish-sounding names like Greenleaf, Star-spray, Sunshine, Moon Unit or Dweezil (okay, I have yet to meet an Elf named Dweezil), but what sort of names do you think Elvish hippies give their kids? Fred? Bertha? Horace?
Awwww, lookit li'l Sinnarn, getting a care package from home. It's good that he shares out the honey cakes. He'll make friends that way. I'll bet Alfirin packs extra, because she knows he'll share. She raised her boy right, after all.
All commanders hate writing reports. One of the joys of commanderhood is being able to fob the scut work off on someone. Legolas will find this out after the Battle of Five Armies, I think.
And Galelas is still bad news. I think maybe he was bucking for a promotion himself, or at least a transfer to a more glorious patrol. And I'm sure it's his attitude that's preventing him from getting what he wants. He'll just have to bang his head against that wall till he learns better.
Author's reply
I'm feeling a little tentative about Tuilinn's appearance, so I appreciate the reassurance, FP. I just can't believe Legolas never looked at a maiden in all those years. And yet, I do think he was unmarried during the quest.
Funny you should mention Moon Unit and Dweezil! I was thinking about that not too long ago. I have this problem in that I named Turgon and his brother Amdir before I knew that Elves are unlikely to repeat names. I just assumed that they'd be like humans and some of them would name their children for famous elves of the past. But I don't feel I can change those names now because I've established them. So I thought I could make it kind of a local scandal that their parents named them like that, and that it would be the equivalent of Moon Unit! But then it occurred to me that if I did that, I'd have to account for "Legolas," which is also obviously a repeated name, and I couldn't think of a good way to do that. So I'm still stuck.
Galelas is at his worst with Legolas, I think. I'll bet Elorfin is surprised to see some of this behavior. And you're right: he needs to stop it.
meckinock
· 24 March 2005
· Chapter 4: Visitors in Camp
Waiting 'til the last minute to do your paperwork, eh, Elorfin? Well, join the club. I guess it's harder to miss your deadline when the courier is standing over you waiting to take the dispatch back to Ithilden, though. Around my place we just figure they won't read it for a month after they get it anyway, so what's the bother.
Another reason Elves are better than people: Legolas did a fine job of handling Galelas, and because he's an Elf doesn't need to worry about handling Galelas only to have Elorfin undermine his authority by telling him he's being too mean to Galelas and he should be nicer. Oh, did I say that?
I loved Eilian's letter. That was wonderful. LOL about Anyr being right about Thranduil not understanding him. You have nailed Anyr. Hearing Eilian describe him is a complete riot. Love his Elven "Nuclear Free Zone."
I'm still enjoying Legolas's musings over why Eilian seems to like Galelas as much as he does. I like the fact that it continues to elude him. A lot of things like that do. Sometimes you just can't figure people, and that's all right. If he figures it out eventually, that would be OK, too.
Well, and it looks like something else has captured Legolas's attention anyway. At this point Galelas could probably put on a tutu and dance the Macarena around the fire and he wouldn't notice. Can't wait to see how this heats up. Great chapter!
Author's reply
I suspect that Ithilden doesn't wait to read this stuff, but then the information might be more immediately pressing than what most of us write in reports at work. And I do think Elorfin will support Legolas. He surely knows what happens if warriors don't do what officers tell them pretty darn quick. But I can just picture maybe certain rangers jumping up and down ranting at some hapless, impossible underling! I wish I'd been there.
Using a single POV has driven me to things like the scene in chapter 1 in which Legolas overhears Eilian and Celuwen or this letter. I've been racking my brains trying to think of the devices authors use to communicate what's happening elsewhere. They use these and also accounts by people who have been in the other place. And if you're JK Rawling, you use magic (which would be very cool!).
I'm hoping people will tolerate Tuilinn's presence. Legolas certainly can!
The Karenator
· 24 March 2005
· Chapter 4: Visitors in Camp
“My mail is calling to me,” Sinnarn groaned as he walked away.
Great line. While visions of honey cakes danced in his head...he went back to gather herbs. Galelas's response was interesting. He's going to pick on Sinnarn now? That will not bode well with the young lieutenant. Galelas can pick on him all he likes, but when you start reprimanding relatives, then trouble is sure to follow. And there is the small problem that it was simply out of line for Galelas to say something to another warrior. I'm even beginning to wonder how Eilian gets along with him.
Legolas gave an incredulous laugh. “You would check to make sure I had changed my underclothes if I let you.”
I laughed out loud. So Beliond is Aunt Noreth's cousin once removed on her mother's side. Undergarments worries must be a family tradition. Actually, such worry wart behavior is commonly shared among worry warts. This just cracked me up.
Eilian's letter was great.
This line: Then he told me that the people in the settlement were peaceful, and thus I would not find it necessary to wear my sword while I was there. I tried and failed to follow the logic of that. I had never thought that the settlers were the ones who would cause me to use my sword.
And this one: I sound as if I am armed to the teeth as I go about trying to ward off settlers who want me to go berrying with them, but I assure you, Legolas, I am subtle and sneaky.
These two lines just tickled me. They're both so Eilian. I also like the part where he talked about having never slept without a guard. That must have made him feel vulnerable. Of course, he's worried about Celuwen too being so unguarded. Old habits are hard to break and I don't know that I'd disagree with him that it's not advisable to simply trust that nothing is going to happen.
Surprise! Tuilinn is back and she saw Legolas too! Who's that with her? Just tell me it's not her husband or betrothed. That would be a bummer. It's her dad, right? Or brother? Some guy who gave her a ride?
I can't wait to see what happens!
Wonderful chapter, as always.
Karen
Author's reply
OK. Confession first. When I wrote that line about Beliond checking to see if Legolas had clean underwear, I suddenly remembered Daeron and thought maybe I should change it, but I couldn't resist. So I owe you one, Karen!
Sinnarn did what he was supposed to do, but Galelas just couldn't stop himself. Here are Legolas and Sinnarn all friendly and honey cakes are on the way and Legolas is giving orders. That all must have been hard to take.
I had fun writing the letter. Actually it was the first thing I wrote for this chapter. Along with the scene in Ch 1 in which Legolas overhears Eilian and Celuwen, this letter is one of the devices I'm using to try to talk about what's happening elsewhere without leaving Legolas's POV.
Tuilinn seems as struck by the sight of Legolas as he is by her, doesn't she?
Alice
· 22 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
I really like Sinnarn. Poor guy is much put on by his family though. In a lot of ways he has it worse than Legolas did. He doesn't have just a father, a keeper, and two brothers babying him, he's got a father, a grandfather, a mother, a keeper and two uncles babying him. Most of whom are his boss in some way, shape or form, the poor woodelf.
So Galelas and Legolas are up to their old tricks. Stupid boys. Too bad Maldor isn't around to give them a common enemy to one up. That's one of my favorite moments from your stories by the way. Rival students uniting against that one great evil: the teacher! At the very least, I think they could bond over being the younger sibling and the "baby" of the family. Tinar's family does not strike me as one that would have noticed if Galelas grew up. Ah well, they'll work things out. They're both too serious about this warrior schtick to let any animosity get too much in the way of business.
So that scene with the dwarves is really ironic considering Legolas becomes best friends with a dwarf later. It makes me giggle to think of the woodelves' reaction to a dwarf entering their forest as a guest of their prince. Poor confused homeguard. Hee. Poor Beliond who no doubt follows Legolas to Ithilien and lives in close quarters with both men and dwarves. That was probably a "What did I do to deserve this?" moment for Beliond. Poor Beliond, stuck with Curious George as a prince to protect.
So, good chapter. It's weird though not switching from Legolas's viewpoint. It works , though I do miss Thranduil and the others. They have fun points of view. So, update soon and let us know how Legolas's peace efforts are going. Knowing those two, probably not well.
Author's reply
Bless you, Alice! I was just sitting here trying to write a scene between Legolas and Galelas and your review came. I had completely forgotten that moment in "The Novice" when the two of them cooperate to dump Maldor on his rear. I wasn't even sure at first which story it had happened in. But then I found it and reread it and got to thinking about the strategies that Legolas was using. Wow. Legolas needs to recall that too. And you're right that they're both serious about being warriors. It's just hard for them to remember that they're on the same side.
I think you're absolutely right that Beliond follows Legolas to Ithilien. He'd never let Legoals go alone. I wonder how he and Gimli got along? That thought makes me laugh.
I too find it weird to always be in Legolas's POV. I have a long letter from Eilian coming in the next chapter. I already wrote that part. It's my attempt to let people know how he's doing too.
nessie
· 21 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Hey remember me? Yeah, uh sorry I haven't been reviewing. I'm just dropping in to let you know that I am definitely still reading your fics and I'm still loving them. I'm going through that lurking phase again.
Anyways! I really love this story so far! I actually love Galelas. Much more than Tinar. Seriously, how can Tinar's wife stand him? She must consiously count to ten slowly and take deep breaths whenever he gets on her nerves. She deserves a reward for that. A huge, honking reward. And a medal.
I was a little upset though because I like reading certain stories on this site instead of ff.net, but I had to read this chapter at ff.net because the font is like fricken size 2. Do you know what the deal is with that? Or is it just my computer? Because it's never done that before. But I like reading your fics on this site because the backround is so nice and kinda Elvish-y and I get into the stories more. I dont know why.
Anyways! I'm really loving this story. You always come up with great fics, and in a short span of time too! Update asap!
~nessie~
Author's reply
Tinar's wife's plight is especially horrible when you think about the fact that they're married forever, even after death! Ick. Galelas is much better than that.
So about font size. Try going to "view" at the top of your browser, and then select "font size." See if it got set smaller. Sometimes if you accidentally press the scroll button on your mouse, or press too hard, it changes the size, but only for the site you're on. See if that helps.
Karri
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
*tsk* Galelas seems a competent mentor in most ways, but despite their difficult history, he really needs to comprehend that Legolas is his Lieutenant and be more respectful of that. Great chapter!
I hope you are getting a little time to enjoy more of San Francisco than your hotel and conference rooms.
Author's reply
Galelas does need to get over it, but he's having trouble doing so and in the long run, that could hurt him. Poor Galelas.
I'm home again and worn out from struggling through airports. I mostly worked but I did enjoy San Francisco. You won't be surprised to learn that it's am more cosmopolitan city than Ames, Iowa!
esamen
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Every Elf Legolas knew could hear the song of the trees, but Beliond had always claimed that the king’s sons were more in harmony with the woods than others were. Legolas had begun to think that Beliond might be right, but he did not have to like being told so.
I love reading about the magical connection with the woods that Thranduil and his family have . . . this is something so Tolkien and unique to Wood elves.
Galelas hasn't changed . . . or will he? Will we meet Legolas The Diplomat in the next chapter, or Legolas The Fearsome Thranduilion?
And that Sinnarn. He reminds me of an adorable student who is just trouble enough to make you mad but sweet enough to get away with it. His view of the world seems very different from Ithilden's or Legolas's. He seems a little more like Eilian, but without Eilian's depth, somehow. Is he just young?
I'm also looking forward to some cool keeper action. Beliond is always a wild card to me now, after the trip that we all took to -- was it Esgaroth? -- a while ago. I never know what he's going to do. He seems capable of pulling almost any kind of trick out of his sleeve.
And of course, I always hope that Legolas gets into heaps of scary heroic trouble. With all this wilderness around, it sure seems like it could happen. Make my day and get him into deep h/c for a grand finale! Happy typing and please update soon! Thanks for a great read!
P.S. I hope you enjoy CCCC. Judith Gardner, a good friend of mine from University of Texas at San Antonio, is there. Say hi for me if you run into her and can remember that name . . . :-)
Author's reply
Legolas is still pondering his options with Galelas. At least, that's what he was doing this morning when I tried to think about this. Then I got lost in airport madness and decided to let my brain rot.
I think Sinnarn is a lot like Eilian, but he's been sheltered more than Eilian was and I think that's had advantages and disadvantages for him. In one way, Eilian's early obligations have given him more depth. They made him mature in some ways. Of course, they've also burdened him and I think he has a melancholic streak that can be self-destructive. Sinnarn is growing up much more slowly, which may be more normal in elves. Oddly, I think he has that melancholic streak too, which is part of the source of his cynicism about the chances of defeating the shadow.
Beliond doesn't appear much in my notes for this story, but maybe I'll have to remedy that. The interaction between the two brothers and their two keepers was part of the point of that story. And they went to Dale, which is going to be in the ME newpapers very soon.
CCCC was madness because they changed the venue at the last moment. But I had a good time seeing people I hadn't seen in a while. I'm home now and just read this message so I didn't look for Judith Gardner. It would have been fun to meet someone who knows you in RL!
Yanic
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Oh I loved this line about Beliond: "Beliond was probably relieved that Legolas was out of danger, but given the wide-ranging life he had led before becoming Legolas’s bodyguard, he had to be bored on occasion too." I would love to hear more about his former "Wide-ranging life". Oh and I don't know if this was intentional (bet it was) but Sinnarn's burned hands in this story mirror his burned hands in "Fire and Shadow". Can't wait to see if there are any other parallels.
Author's reply
Wow, you're a careful reader, Yanic. I didn't even think about Sinnarn's hands being burned in that encounter with the dragon but you are so right. I wonder if it was in the back of my mind, given that it was the same patrol and I know where this story is headed? I'll just pretend that it was!
perelleth
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Glad to read from you so soon! My, you're truly dedicated to you readers!! thanks!!!!
Wow. I've just finished reading Tangled Web (I thought it would take you longer to update!) and I'm still shaken by how well you manage to portray the amount of destruction, anguish and loss these elves and men sustained then, so I feel we can expect something equally dark and painful here...sigh. Evidently, life in ME was dangerous and cruel and dark for all creatures, and it is so fitting that you chose to show it in your personal way! (btw, Tangled Way fills one of my all-time favourite gaps! it was wonderfully tangled and cleverly untangled! I always wondered what had happened to the poor guard! It was Sinnarn!!! that was a deep blow ;-)
So, this "Creature of Fire" has a melancholic feeling around it, in spite, or because, all those young warriors eager to be learning, this Legolas recovering from his southern posting, this carefree Sinnarn, the cheeky dwarves, and poor Galelas. Sigh. It is said that envy is one of the most destructive feelings, for both the one who experiences it, and the one who becomes its target, and you clearly show it here. There's little Legolas feels he can do - or feels like doing- to improve the situation, and despite Eilian's best efforts, Galelas will never get to overcome his jealousy. So sad.
On the happier front, I love the way Beliond and Legolas are getting on, so many years after their first meeting. They seem to have adjusted to one another pretty well, and Beliond's dry sense of humour will prove so useful for Legolas in his dealings with Gimli!!!! Killer squirrels indeed!! ;-)
Author's reply
I feel very lucky to have the reviewers I do, but I have to admit that what happens is that I get absorbed in working out a story and hate to put it down. So I wrote on the plane and then in my room in the evenings, feeling happy to have the chance to do it.
I'm glad you liked "Tangled Web." It was an odd story to write. I think you have to know "The Hobbit" fairly well to understand what I was wrestling with. Because if you read that book and try to see it from the Elves' POV, all kinds of questions occur to you. How did the Dwarves get so far without the Elves seeing them? Answer: they didn't. The Elves were watching them. Why did Sauron leave Dol Guldur so easily? Answer: he knew the ring had been found. He sensed it in the forest when Bilbo wore it. And so on. And that battle was much larger than the skirmishes I write on my own. As I tried to work with Tolkien's details, I just was so much more impressed by how powerful his images were. And I just knew that readers would cringe when Legolas made Sinnarn the head guard. :-)
That's a very perceptive comment about jealousy. I do think that Galelas is mistaken about what it is he envies in Legolas. I don't think it's his rank.
I love Beliond. My beta does too. She makes me put him everything (thank Eru!).
Brazgirl
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Hi Daw! It was nice of you to post one more chapter while on travel. And also answer to reviews!! :-D
Hum... seems Legolas will have to solve old problems now. I wonder how his little chat with Galelas will be! It must be hard for him to do his job being the king's son and deal with people like Galelas. And in this case is worse because it comes since their time as novices.
Sometimes I pity Sinnarn. The guy is not only a member of the royal family, the king's grandson but ALSO the troop commander's son. And being the troop commander Ithilden... things get worse. It must be hard to be in the same patrol with a member of the family and being this member an officer show the proper respect without raising personal subjects, especially in front of others. But I think he will do well (at least his grandfather has faith in him, what I think the most amusing!) and he is cute!!!
Author's reply
My hotel had an internet hookup and I couldn't resist. It was a relief to leave work and check into the virtual world once in a while.
Legolas is in a tough position as the king's son. I think you're right about that. He has to be able to separate his warrior role from his role as Thranduil's youngest son, and the trouble is that other people don't always succeed in doing that.
You're a reviewer after my own heart because you feel sorry for Sinnarn. I would NOT want to be doing what he is doing. He has a terribly fine line to tread and if he slips off it just once, everyone is down on him. Except for his grandfather, of course. :-)
White Wolf
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
It was great to see Legolas's spirit soar at being in a healthy and beautiful part of the forest. It's where a wood elf truly belongs.
I don't think it's a mystery that there will be a blow-up between Legolas and Galelas. Can’t wait.
Legolas handled the incident with the dwarves like a responsible officer should have. Adar and the brothers would be proud.
Author's reply
You're so right about a Wood-elf needing good trees! The forest is part of him. When it suffers, so does he. And I've been having a good time writing about Legolas as an authoritative adult. He's attractive that way! :-)
Dot
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
This is a very elfy chapter!! This part of the forest sounds so beautiful. I imagine it must become a little dull after a while, though, to have more or less the same routine with little to make it interesting. It certainly seems too tranquil for Beliond, anyway! Of course, he loves the trees so he’d probably be quite happy there if he could somehow get rid of the rest of the patrol…
I really liked the part with Gweddyn and Deliwyn. Gweddyn (doesn’t his name sound like a Welsh village?!) seems like the perfect person to train new warriors. Not everyone would make the effort to point out the good work of others. I thought it was a nice moment when Legolas realises how much care goes into guiding and training them, almost always unnoticed by the young warriors. Beliond certainly was a different kettle of fish, but then, he had to learn his role too. And even on the many occasions when he reprimanded Legolas, I don’t recall him doing so in front of the officers. One of my favourite things about this story so far is the relationship between Beliond and Legolas. They’re such fun to watch now that they’re at ease with one another and can treat each other more or less as equals.
“He had forgotten how hungry young warriors always were.” LOL! Has he forgotten how much sleep they need too, eh?! How things have changed.
I still have trouble thinking of Galelas as being responsible for younger elves. It sounds like he’s fairly good, though, and thorough in his job. What a pity Legolas had to come along and spoil things for him!
What a fantastic moment when Legolas realises he’s the only one who has noticed the trees’ confusion. I had to laugh at the reaction of the two younger warriors. I don’t think Galelas is going to be too happy if they’re that impressed by Legolas, though! Beliond seems to have enjoyed the scene too.
Dwarves! How exciting! Elves seem extraordinarily fond of materialising out of nowhere and frightening the life out of people. I suppose I’d enjoy it too if I could manage it… Does the length of beard denote rank then? Legolas really does know how to be scary when he wants to. The poor dwarves haven’t done anything terrible. That I know of. O.k., so they should really have stuck to the agreement between Thranduil and Thrór… I was probably just feeling sorry for them when they thought that they wouldn’t get to have their meal. That would have been so mean! I was surprised when the elves were invited to join them for dinner, though! What a wonderful image! I bet Sinnarn will be jealous. I like too that Legolas directed Deliwyn to serve the leader of the dwarves next. It is, after all, possible to be respectful and menacing at the same time ;-) So are we going to see these dwarves again? They did mention Erebor… And a certain dragon seems likely to make an appearance soon…
“Here we are,” Vanduil said, cheerily.” I can just see the dwarves wondering exactly where “here” is. There’s something rather touching about the way Legolas pities anyone who isn’t in tune with the forest. It must be hard to understand that others can’t feel something that’s so much a part of him. Then again, the dwarves probably pity the elves for not understanding stone and the earth as they do.
Fire-jumping?? But can they do it whilst juggling five knives, I wonder…?! I’m still laughing at Sinnarn’s assertion that “I am not an idiot, after all.” I think the idiotic part was doing it in the first place, not doing it in front of Elorfin or Nithron. I’m kind of torn between the two of them. Legolas is absolutely right that Sinnarn’s injury is his business as the patrol’s lieutenant and that he should never do something so foolish while on patrol. But I can’t help feeling sympathy towards Sinnarn’s need to seek some amusement and it’s terrible to hear the bitterness in his voice. I take it Amdir has been transferred elsewhere? Sinnarn does still seem to have some trouble reconciling the playful Legolas at festivals with his lieutenant. It’s probably not so much that Sinnarn has trouble separating duty and pleasure but that he has more trouble deciding which to put first sometimes. Maybe he needs to be sent to a more dangerous patrol. Then again, he’s never seemed as determined as his father and uncles to be rid of the Shadow and sees fighting it more as the losing battle that it really is – so who can blame him for wanting to “take any chance for joy” in the midst of all this.
“Galelas tells me that Vanduil is still having trouble keeping aware of the need to position himself correctly when he is excited.” Hmmn. This is actually the only problem I have with Galelas in this chapter. He seems good at both his own job and in guiding Vanduil. But he definitely should have told Legolas about Vanduil’s trouble, especially when Legolas outright asked him. Maybe he felt that Legolas would criticise his training of the young warrior. These two just rub each other up the wrong way. That Elorfin seems very happy with Galelas’ performance in that patrol so far makes it slightly more difficult for Legolas because the captain would have no reason to assume that most of it is Galelas’ fault. We know that they never become friends but they’ll have to find a way to work together. It’s just unfortunate for Legolas that it really falls to him to do something about it. But I’m looking forward to seeing what solution he comes up with!! :-)
Author's reply
LOL about Beliond being happier if he could just get rid of those other pesky warriors! I too like seeing him and Legolas more comfortable together, although half the time I still have to stop and ask myself if I've got it right for this point in time.
I think that Legolas and Galelas bring out the worst in one another. Galelas is doing OK in guiding Vanduil, and may even be able to tell himself that he was just protecting the younger warrior when he didn't tell Legolas what happened. He'd be fooling himself of course. He didn't want to cooperate and he enjoyed making Legolas look ignorant in front of the captain.
I was guessing about the length of the Dwarves' beard being a clue to who was leader. That seems to be the case with Thorin Oakenshield in The Hobbit, although there were other markers there too. We might see these Dwarves again. I'll have to see.
And yes, Vanduil can sense just where the line in the forest is over which the Dwarves shouldn't have crossed and the Dwarves can't. But as you say, the Dwarves have an intuition of stony life that the Elves lack (although Legolas hears the stones in Hollin when the Fellowship passes through there).
I spent some time writing about Sinnarn for my own sake this week. I wanted to have a better sense of exactly why he behaves as he does. And I think that his sense that the battle is a losing one is part of it. He's more cynical than the older generation is. It's just his nature. And I thought that Ithilden would make sure that Amdir and Sinnarn weren't stationed together if he at all could.
I'm looking forward to seeing Legolas's solution too! I'm not quite sure what it is yet, but I have faith in him.
thechevin
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Another lovely chapter the way Legolas feels about the forests was very well portrayed as was the desperation he feels when in the south where the trees are being taken over by the shadow
Trust Beliond to have something to say on the matter, his minder really does know his charge well.
I rather like his idea of the squirrels perhaps they can gang up on Galelas who is doing no one any favours presently, he is obviously a good warrior but ....! Perhaps he is a republican as in anti-monarchist
I love it when Legolas catches himself saying or thinking something about Sinnarn that his father has said about him earlier in his life how unsettling that can be
and Sinnarn another mixed up youngster Elorfin must have his work cut out with all these young ones in his patrol all those raging hormones, do elves have hormones?
The confrontation with the dwarves and the patrol showed how far Legolas has come and how much more confident he is in his own position now I hope Galelas will not undermine that confidence
thank you
Author's reply
Given the Wood-elves connection to the forest, I think they must have really felt the devastation around Dol Guldur, and I'm happy to give Legolas (and Eilian) a chance to be in a healthy forest for a change.
I've been enjoying writing about adult, capable Legolas, even if his father's words sometimes come out of his mouth (an experience we all have probably shared! Well, not Thranduil's words, although that would be nice, but you know what I mean).
I'm sure Elves have hormones, although Tolkien says that their minds are in greater control of their bodies than is the case with men. I think they probably have to learn to do that though, and I'll bet there's a range of ability to manage it.
Jay of Lasgalen
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Legolas is a very able leader now, and guides his patrol well. It's clear that Galelas is a good warrior, works well with the novices he is guiding, and gets on with everyone but Legolas! I liked the detail about him checking Vanduil's search pattern.
The scene with the dwarves was great - but what would Thranduil say about his youngest dining with dwarves?? I particularly like the dwarf leader (and Legolas's method of establishing which he was - look for the beard!) Their leader wasn't fazed by the sudden appearance of so many elves. Will we meet him again?
Jay
Author's reply
Galelas and Legolas tend to bring out the worst in one another, although I think Legolas is much more self controlled, but then he's a happier person. But Elorfin has seen Galelas in good warrior mode, so he's going to be startled by the change, I think.
The Dwarf leader had a pretty good sense of Elves, actually. He knew he was in the wrong, but he also seemed to believe that he wasn't going to die for it!
We might meet that Dwarf again. I'll have to see. :-)
Bodkin
· 19 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Bit of a problem, isn't it? Now, if he were Eilian, he could just indulge in a bit of Galelas-praise and tell him how well he is doing in nurturing the young'uns - but Legolas would have to be very careful to do that without coming over as patronising. Perhaps he could have an interesting chat about his brother with Eilian's protege - although that would only remind Galelas again how lucky Legolas was in his family when compared to the poor unfortunate brother of Tinar.
I just love Beliond's perception that the only danger they were facing in the healthy woods could be the unexpected attack of killer squirrels armed with acorns. I get the feeling that he would enjoy the trees more in the absence of a bunch of young warriors. And the contrast with them again underlines just how much Legolas has grown up - he'll be saying the policemen look young soon. Although Sinnarn is only forty years younger, I think it'll take thirteen dwarves and a hobbit to make him more mature. And only then when it's followed by death and serious injury. He's busy seizing joy with an almost obsessive determination - almost too much so, perhaps - it almost seems like self-defence in the face of what is happening in the greenwood.
The elves do enjoy playing with dwarves, though, don't they! Mostly in the way that cats play with mice, so I'm not sure the dwarves get the same pleasure from the experience.
'“They were probably poaching,” Beliond muttered from his seat next to Legolas.
Legolas nodded. “We will try to make sure that the next time they do it, they at least have enough sense to take their kill back to their own territory before they cook it.” '
Love it. Mature sense of humour - it's nice seeing Legolas when he's not feeling he has something to prove.
It'll do them both good to spend some time in the north. Well, unless Galelas loses his head. And until a certain creature of fire decides to warm things up a bit.
Author's reply
Legolas's past history with Galelas makes it very hard for him to approach the guy at all. And they're never going to be buddies. But they do have to be able to work together.
I've been thinking about Sinnarn as I worked on this story, and I do think he's engaged in a sort of exaggerated version of his grandmother's advice to take a moment for joy. I think he sees the shadow approaching and isn't sure it will be defeated, so there's a sort of carpe diem quality in his behavior.
If the dwarves had been engaged in something that looked threatening, then the elves would have replied in kind, but mostly Legolas just wanted to put the fear of the Valar (or maybe the fear of both kings) in them.
I like competent, adult Legolas myself. :-)
The Karenator
· 18 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
“Unless the squirrels start hurling acorns at us, I think we are safe so far,” Beliond observed.
Oh, Beliond. I love this line. I don't know if Beliond can stand the excitement of the northern patrol. But surely, he must appreciate a break from the south occasionally. I'm sure he enjoys the healthy trees as much as Legolas, but would rather have every hair on his head plucked than admit it. He's such a hoot.
I liked Vanduil. He's so excited to be a real warrior. I get this image of a happy, young elf just digging all this patrol stuff. I was relieved to see that Galelas was supportive of him. That's such a good indicator that Galelas isn't all bad. We know that, of course, but it was nice to see this in his actions with Vanduil.
Unfortunately, Galelas couldn't get his irritation with Legolas under control. He's going out of his way to make sure that Legolas knows that he's annoyed by his presence. That scene reminded me of the one when they were novices and Galelas told Legolas that Legolas would be made an officer whether he deserved it or not, just because Legolas was the king's son. I couldn't help but wonder if Galelas was thinking that Legolas didn't deserve to be lieutenant during this new scene. They became warriors at the same time. I can see that Galelas might be resentful. He certainly acted with disrespect.
Sinnarn! Fire-jumping? And he had the nerve to tell Legolas, when questioned about who was present during this stunt, that he wasn't an idiot. I suppose that's debatable. And then he just smiled and went on his happy little way. Bless his heart, to be only a little younger than Legolas, he sure has a lot of growing up yet to do. I actually feel a little sympathy for him. He has to walk in the footsteps of a bunch of alpha males.
So Galelas didn't report to Legolas as he should have? I'm looking forward to seeing how you let these two resolve this.
Good show, Daw.
Karen
Author's reply
Beliond is just a natural grouch. He's a real contrast to Vanduil, who, as you say, is excited. Legolas used to be like that and from Beliond's POV, that must have been a real trial!
Galelas is pretty sure that Legolas is getting special treatment, and as Legolas knows, he kind of is. But then he has more responsiblities that most people have too. He just had a warrior die on a mission, for instance. That might not feel so much like a good thing.
Sinnarn does look awfully young. It's taking him a long time to mature. He's lucky he has that generation between him and his grandfather, and that he's not in Ithilden's position. Now that would have been scary for everyone!
meckinock
· 18 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Call me sentimental, but I was glad the Dwarves got to eat their dinner. Lovely visual image of elves materializing all around them with bows drawn. They seemed to take it in stride, though. I liked the little insights into Legolas's analysis of the situtation - his counting the packs and his identification of the Dwarf leader by his beard length. I also liked his calculated diplomacy - make sure the Dwarves know who's in charge, but treat them respectfully.
Galelas is turning into a handful, though. Time to take him behind the woodshed, maybe. Or at least put him in his place very casually but very publicly. I have every confidence that Legolas can turn this situation around!
Author's reply
Only you could get "sentimental" about food, Meckinock! LOL. I'm glad Legolas seemed to know what he was doing. I wanted him to be competent looking. Of course, dealing with Galelas is going to take all his diplomacy, and he may have other distractions. Who knows? :-)
Manderly
· 18 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Legolas is really becoming a leader in his right. All the littler mannerisms that he displayed in this chapter point to a growing ease with his position of authority. What a difference between this Legolas and the young, breathlessly eager elf who first joined the ranks of warriors. It must be getting harder for Beliond to hide his pride for his charge. It's funny that Beliond is probably the one person who is most aware of Legolas' maturing ability, more so than Legolas' own family. I wonder if Thranduil ever feels jealous of his sons' keepers.
If Legolas found it difficult growing up in the shadows of his two brothers, then Sinnarn must find it even harder to grow up in his father's and uncles' shadows. It's intersting that Sinnarn feels trapped by his royal obligations. He's obviously no longer the rebellious adolescent, but he's not at ease either with his position in the realm.
And Galelas is making life difficult for Legolas. There is a lot of resentment and jealousy there. Legolas seems to have everything he himself lacks - a position of authority and a caring and loving family. I really feel sorry for him, especially when I think of his ultimate end. It will be interesting to see how Legolas handles this situation.
Author's reply
I kind of like authoritative Legolas! He's very attractive. And your idea that Thranduil might become jealous of the intimate knowledge the keepers have is very intriguing. I never thought of that.
Sinnarn really does feel overwhelmed by the responsibility that could be associated with being Ithilden's heir, I think. He's not at ease with that at all.
I feel sorry for Galelas too. Poor guy. He's a pain, but then he's had some bad breaks.
elliska
· 18 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Yeah! Another chapter. I always like the way you describe the elves in the forest. I particularly liked the differences that Legolas saw--new stream beds for example. That would be a change a human would likely see over the course of their life but Legolas sees it between postings (which is a really long time). And I like the details agout how they patrol--not just looking for tracks but also listening to the trees. So elfy!
And I just loved that little encounter with the dwarves. Well done with Legolas's little trap for them. That was funny. And well done with Legolas's threat/promise to inform the Elvenking of their trespass--yes I doubt they will like the consequences of that with their own king very much. And I love the way you showed the conflict with Legolas and Galelas. That was a simple thing for Galelas to do but it had nasty repercussions when it all unfolded with the captain. I like how you come up with those simple (and therefore very believable) but also significant complications. Well, Legolas should not have had too high hopes that he wasn't going to have to earn Galelas's respect. I hope he can do it before Galelas's attitude makes them all into crispy critters when Smaug swoops in.
And good old Sinnarn. He's learning the same lessons everyone has to when a family member becomes an authority figure. (Had my mom as a teacher once--yuck. It's really wierd to call you own mom Mrs....) Firejumping on a patrol. I'm sorry, I had to laugh at that because I can so see it happening with both him and Eilian.
Great chap, Daw.
Author's reply
It occurred to me that Elves witnessed big geological changes -- all the upheaval of Beleriand, for instance, and the smaller things here. It's very hard for me to remember those differences in the experiencing of time.
I'm glad you think the stuff with Galelas was realistic. He and Legolas just bring out the worst in one another, and I do think that happens sometimes. And Galelas could probably tell himself he was just protecting the young warrior.
I thought firejumping would be elfy too. I'll bet they're good at it! Although in Sinnarn's case, he wasn't quite good enough.
I'm travelling all day tomorrow and am looking forward to reading your new chapter when I get home.
French Pony
· 18 March 2005
· Chapter 3: Galelas
Elorfin is really Mr. Nice Elf, isn't he? Galelas should probably be spending some time on KP for insubordination. Of course, Elorfin allowed Sinnarn to go jumping over fires. This probably explains why the good captain is in the north rather than in the south.
Speaking of Sinnarn, there goes Legolas channeling his family again. It's just horrifying when you hear your family's words coming out of your own mouth. Kind of makes you feel like the originator of the speech will pop out any second crying, "I told you so!"
I'll bet those Dwarves just about peed their britches when all the Elves suddenly jumped down from the trees. But at least everyone kept their tempers, and they got a good hot meal out of the bargain. Looks like Vanduil got his wish after all. It is indeed astonishing how much young males can eat. I grew up in a mostly female family, and the adjustment of scale when my (male) cousin and his college roommate dropped in for dinner was tremendous. A stew that could feed our entire family for several days just disappeared.
I like the trees here. They have such personality (though they are somewhat wooden characters. . . ). They don't seem to be very bright, but they are trees, after all, so I suppose they can be forgiven. And the adjustment from being in a terrible horrible place to a relatively normal one is indeed shocking for the first few days.
Author's reply
Galelas really pushed his luck, I think, but it's true that it would be best if Legolas were the one to deal with him. He just has to figure out how.
I think scarring the bodily fluids out of the Dwarves was the point of all the elves showing up at once! Elves are good at being intimidating. That way they don't actually have to shoot those arrows.
I'm going to ignore that terrible pun about the trees, assuming you'll recover over spring break. :-)