A Charge To Keep by French Pony
daw the minstrel · 28 March 2005 · Chapter 2: The Quality Of Mercy
I was struck by Thranduil's sympathy for Gollum's loss. It must have taken a lot for Thranduil to see himself as having something in common with a creature like Gollum. Is it possible that the elves took Gollum out by night? That had never occurred to me until I read the debate here about him not liking light.
TithenFeredir · 26 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
I really enjoyed the style in which this was written. You have put a very light touch on everything. The discussion between Gandalf and Thranduil seemed to have a very subtle underlying current of humor with Thranduil's reluctance and mildly stated complaints as well as Gandalf's equally mild flattery. I don't know how you did it, but I felt like I was reading these familiar characters for the first time...especially Legolas. The way you gradually revealed him was very nice. I look forward to the rest of your story. ~TF
Bodkin · 25 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
I love the practicality of Legolas - it sits well with his role in the fellowship. And the sons of kings do need to eat! He is so genuinely interested in Gollum - and kind, too. 'Gandalf brightened. "Because you and your people are kind and brave of heart, King Thranduil," ' Gandalf the flatterer! He seems to have been glad to have the opportunity to come out with these lines. Lovely kitchen byplay - and so true! I imagine that the offspring of lords often find their way into kitchens and stables to build strong bonds with those who provide food and horses. (I don't thing laundries would have the same attraction.) I would need more than one night in a bed after years of chasing Gollum! In fact, one would be worse than none, because it would make only too apparent just what you were missing. Good to see Legolas and Aragorn taking their first steps on a friendship that would hold the elf in Middle Earth as long as Elessar lived.
Dot · 22 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
Ah yay! This looks great. You’re right, this is a fascinating period of time and I’m so glad that you decided to write about it because your understanding of these characters and their world never fails to amaze me. I loved the mini showdown between Thranduil and Gandalf. The fact that Thranduil can be so open about the Dwarf incident suggests an honesty and trust between them and even Thranduil seems to feel that he’s making his arguments more because he’s obliged to remind them if what it could cost the Elves than because he actually believes that he will resist Gandalf’s wishes. Although I have no doubt that when he wants to say no he’s more than capable of it! You’ve captured Gollum perfectly and I really liked that moment when Legolas gives in to his curiosity and examines this strange creature. I had this moment of utter relief when I recognised book!Legolas in this guy… “Great changes are afoot, and my heart tells me that you will not keep the creature as long as you fear. But when and how he will leave your custody, I cannot say." Hmm. Was that a chill I just felt?? Actually, it’s so interesting. In its simplest terms, if Thranduil hadn’t agreed to keep Gollum, then his people wouldn’t have been killed and his son wouldn’t have gone to Rivendell and ended up heading off to Mordor. But if none of that had happened, what of the quest to destroy the ring? Who would have replaced Legolas? Would Frodo and Sam have been better off without Gollum? Had Thranduil any foresight, would he have refused Gandalf or would he have had the wisdom to allow fate takes its course? Anyway, I can’t wait to see your version of the events in Mirkwood and Legolas’ role in all this. Oh, and I love the fact that the Elvenking has storage rooms, not dungeons ;-) I really enjoyed the whole scene in the kitchen. Aragorn’s surprise that Legolas was the king’s son made me smile, but even more amusing was the fact that he thought Galion was his father. I can just see little Legolas winning over all of the kitchen staff. It seems Aragorn found just the right thing to say to please them too. The river scene was very well done too. The beginning of friendship between Aragorn and Legolas is lovely to watch. The fact that Legolas seems to accept Aragorn without prying seems to have put the Ranger more at ease than he might otherwise have been. Anyway, great start – I’m looking forward to more! :-)
Jay of Lasgalen · 22 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
I love this story so far. Your characterisations of Thranduil, Legolas, Gandalf and Aragorn are perfect - so is Gollum. I love the small details incorporated from Tolkien - that Gollum bit Aragorn, the escape of the dwarves (but that Thranduil fed and watered them), and Galion. I loved Aragorn's assumption that Galion was Legolas's father! A very nice tale, going straight on my 'alert' list! Jay
Leaward · 22 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
What a wonderful start to the story. "Thranduil gave a pained smile. "Will you at least tell me why you have chosen my people to guard him?" he asked." I've often wondered why Gollum ended up in Thranduil's care. It did seem a bit 'out of the way.' And I like how both Legolas and 'Strider' are treating each other with deference at this point. Looking forward to the rest ...
Manderly · 22 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
A very nice first chapter and all your characters are very likable. I especially like your portrayal of Legolas and Aragon. Both seem very real and it seems very natural for their friendship to develop from this point on. Looking forward to the next chapter.
The Karenator · 21 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
A very nice beginning. I particularly liked the discussion between Gandalf and Thranduil about the dwarves who escaped. I'm sure Aragorn was exhausted and a night in a real bed would be most welcome. He had one long.g.g.g. trip with Gollum. I agree that he deserves a night to rest. And to have something decent to eat. I liked Aragorn's line about how children should have access to the kitchen. That won the kitchen staff's favor. I got a nice visual of a small Legolas seated on a stool with his feet dangling while 'helping' the cooks. The fishing scene was nice. The image of lining the fish basket with bright leaves was a wonderful touch. I'm looking forward to the next chapter. Karen
meckinock · 21 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
Wow, I was really excited to see a new story exploring one of my favorite tim periods. Interesting take on Aragorn and Legolas's first meeting; and Thranduil's education about Gollum's eating habits was amusing.
daw the minstrel · 21 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
This is a great topic to write about, Pony. I particularly liked Aragorn's gradual discovery of who Legolas is and of how things might look different in Mirkwood than Imladris. The moment when Legolas crouches in front of Gollum was nice -- I could picture that.
songspinner · 21 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
This is wonderful! So many people write fanfic that has Legolas and Aragorn knowing each other for some time before the quest, and this is the first one I've seen written well with a first meeting just then. It seems totally in character with both of them as they are set down in both book and film, and I loved the sense of humour.
Lamiel · 21 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
Now this is a treat! Several people have written versions of the Mirkwood Elves' keeping of Gollum, and many more have written of Aragorn and Legolas' first meeting and developing friendship. To have both at once is lovely, and made all the better by the high quality of the writing. I know that Aragorn is supposed to head back to the Wild soon, but couldn't he stay just a bit longer? I love reading about him and Legolas together. Excellent beginning, and it promises good things to come. Well, apart from the plot, I mean. That won't be so good for the Wood-elves. But I shall certainly enjoy it!
elliska · 21 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
This is a wonderful start to a very interesting topic, FP! There are a lot of great parts here: Gollum's bits of dialogue are very well done. And, of course I love Thranduil from his 'I will not have that smallest of children go hungry' and other arguments showing him to be the great king we know he is and his 'Far be it from me to dictate your amusement' dry humor. Just great! And I loved Legolas too. Aragorn's surprise that he is Thranduil's son, the fact that he was a pet in the kitchens, his enjoyment of collecting the fish and berries--these are all great details. I will definitely enjoy reading your take on this one. :) Looking forward to more.
Karri · 21 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Needful Duty
Excellent beginning! :-) I am enjoying your characterizations very much and you have painted a beautiful portait of northern Mirkwood.