Yay - Feren to the rescue! And Legolas is going to feel much better about these humans now he has been protecting them. Nobody messes with his humans. I hope the rest of the outnumbered escort is all right. Especially Hesin.
But Legolas is going to have to polish up his obeying-the-one-in-charge skills. Arguing his case (even if right) is a bit teenage of him. Hesin might have to have a word in his ear.
More soon, please.
Author's reply
Feren couldn't be more timely. Good thing for Legolas as he was rather running on empty there. If Legolas stopped to think about how hard he is working at protecting the humans, even risking his own life to do it, he'd probably shock himself.
Legolas still has a thing or two to learn about obedience. Comes with age, I suppose.
Next chapter should be up by the end of the week, I hope.
Lianna
· 8 August 2005
· Chapter 10: Ambush
Oh, poor Legolas. Just when he was beginning to relax around humans...
There is something particularly horrifying about having the adrenaline wear off and the effects of an injury kick in while you're up in the trees. I mean, it's one thing when it happens on an athletic field, where you can keel over in reasonable safety, but the thought of it happening way up there gives me the shakes.
Good timing on Feren's part, though.
Author's reply
Things were rolling along too peacefully here. The bad guys were getting a little restless and wanted a share in the story.
I never thought of what you pointed out about coming back down to reality of an injury while high up in a tree. Yes, it would be pretty horrifying to think that if you keel over, the ground is quite a distance down. The fall would probably be fatal, Wood Elf or not.
Feren's timing couldn't be better.
Thanks for reviewing!
French Pony
· 8 August 2005
· Chapter 10: Ambush
Whenever Legolas interacts with humans, Bad Things are sure to follow. But at least he gets some time in playing with Rynan. I love their talk about grownups and their fears. I'm sure that, even though Legolas is a warrior, he still can't quite see himself as a real grownup.
I think he's handling himself well under pressure here, sticking with the humans and allowing them to interact with him, even through his pain and stress. That shows a lot of trust, which is a big step for him. And then he gets his reward when Feren shows up. Big brother will take care of things.
Oh, one thing more. Urging the horse into a quick cantor, -- that last word should be "canter." Canter is a horse's gait; a cantor is a Jewish prayer leader.
Author's reply
Oh dear, thanks for pointing out that spelling error. I had a good laugh over it myself. I hope others did so as well.
Humans = Bad Things. You are so right. One wonders why he still wants to join the Fellowship after his various interactions with humans. Maybe he ran across more Rynans along the way to overshadow the bad experiences.
Big brother arrives just on time and will now take charge and hopefully, Legolas will let him.
Thanks for reviewing!
Galimeril
· 8 August 2005
· Chapter 10: Ambush
Ahhhhhh! *takes out a stick and starts beating everyone in ssight* You hurt Legolas! My Precious Legolas! NOOOOO! Save him!Please update soon, I really want to know what happens next!!!
Author's reply
Sorry about that! Had I known that you were so passionate about the wellbeing of Legolas, I might have kept him from harm, but then again, maybe not. Everyone was expecting the orcs to make a reappearance and I didn't want to disappoint. I promise to update as soon as I can.
Bodkin
· 5 August 2005
· Chapter 9: Discoveries II
I am glad to see the child is winning Legolas over. Although blushing at the attentions of maidens might cramp his style a bit! And Hesin will be pleased to have his charge a little closer at hand.
The humans are going to end up pretty amazed at the powers of elves - which is not a bad thing.
Two most enjoyable chapters - a lull before a nasty storm, I fear!
Author's reply
You are right. Legolas is beginning to see the humans in a different light and the child deserves all the credit. I think Hesin will take any help that he can get if he can keep Legolas close at hand.
A lull before the storm? You are probably right on that count too. Next chapter should be posted later today or tomorrow.
The Karenator
· 1 August 2005
· Chapter 9: Discoveries II
I love how you're slowly letting the little boy worm his way into Legolas's heart. The little fellow won't give up and well, when all else fails, persistence will triumph.
I'm getting a bad feeling that the calm days are about to end and we're going to see some excitement. Legolas might find that he's opened his heart more than he ever thought possible. I'm just speculating here. :>) But I can see that there are some cracks showing in Legolas's veneer.
You done such a nice job of showing Legolas's conflicts and his journey to seeing that all people of a race or ethnic group aren't bad because a few of them did something bad. He wanted to take on the responsibilities of an adult and now he's learning that in the adult world things aren't always black and white. Besides, the gray areas are often the most intriguing places to explore.
Nicely done, Manderly. I look forward to more.
Karen
Author's reply
Yup, the kid is sticking to Legolas like gum to a shoe, and it's working.
Excitement coming up? Yeah, I guess it's about time for a dose of that, before the readers fall asleep.
It's funny how kids see the world in this black and white mode, and as they grow older (and older), everything just merges together and nothing is definite anymore. Makes me want to be a kid again. Things were much simpler then.
Thank you for your kind comments.
thechevin
· 1 August 2005
· Chapter 9: Discoveries II
Oh this was so lovely and Rynan is so good for Legolas, all those innocent questions and a little hero worship has got to be good for the new warrior as is his sudden realisation that elves and humans are not so different in some respects.
Giving up his own treats to the child was so like Legolas.
As for Hesin he knows his charge well and clearly cares for him, although not so much that he will spare him his teasing!
I really enjoyed this interlude
Author's reply
I agree that Rynan is just what's needed to bring Legolas out of his cocoon. Being the youngest in the family, Legolas probably haven't had the opportunity to be on the receiving end of hero worship from someone younger. A big boost to the ego as well as finding out that humans may not be so evil after all.
I'm glad you are enjoying this interlude. I was afraid that readers might be getting bored with the lack of action so far.
French Pony
· 31 July 2005
· Chapter 9: Discoveries II
I like the kid, though I have the distinct feeling he'll be coming to grief fairly soon. But how nice that he's taken such a shine to Legolas. And Legolas breaks out his precious dried fruits! Rynan 1, Legolas 0. The royal family would be proud.
I wonder who told Hesin about Legolas's encounter with the girl. Surely he knows. He can't not know.
Author's reply
Funny how kids always seem to get the better of adults. Even an elf with serious issues about humans is breaking down into putty in the child's hands, to the point that he's willing to part with his precious treats. I guess Thranduil must have taught him to share.
I think Hesin must have taken his promise to keep an eye on Legolas to heart, and ends up being witness to events that Legolas really has no desire to share with anybody else but himself.
elliska
· 31 July 2005
· Chapter 9: Discoveries II
This was a sweet chapter. :-) I think it would be too cool to meet an elf that talks to trees and horses, so I can identify with Rynan's wonder. He's a very cute child and obviously very good for Legolas. He was indeed very generous--I hope nothing too drastic/permanent happens to this human family as they travel.
And Hesin's teasing cracked me up. ;-)
Thnaks for the update; I was really in the mood today.
Author's reply
If I were to meet Legolas, I would certainly be no less awed than Rynan, LOL!
I think Legolas probably needed to see the other side of the spectrum as far as humans as concerned. He's seen the evil side, and now it's time to see the innocent side to balance things out.
Without Tavaro around to provide the teasing, Hesin will have to pick up the slack.
You are most welcome and I thank you for reading.
daw the minstrel
· 31 July 2005
· Chapter 9: Discoveries II
I've always thought that elves must love and treasure children so it seems right to me that this one finds a way through Legolas's defenses.
Teasing is a pain. Poor Legolas.
Author's reply
I have the same thought regarding elves and their love for children. I just can't see an elf being anything but protective and loving toward a child, any child. Legolas was brought up in a very loving environment and I suppose it would only be natural for him to treat a child in a similar manner.
And Legolas thought he got away from the teasing without Tavaro around!
thechevin
· 26 July 2005
· Chapter 8: Discoveries
I do so like Hesin he is such a good elf kind, thoughtful and a very good role model for Legolas.
I also enjoy the way he defends Legolas to others in the patrol while really feeling quite frustrated with his young charge. ( I mean Legolas although Hesin probably thinks there is little real difference between the young elf and Rynan!)
Although Legolas has shown great character to be able to deal with humans as well as he has.
Young children do have a gift for breaking the ice I do hope Rynan gets to spend more time with his flyhing elf
Author's reply
Hesin has a genuine fondness for Legolas and sees him as more than just a promise to the King and his commander. As you have said, Legolas to him is not much different from Rynan, and it probaby frustrates him to no end to have Legolas wandering off by himself, regardless of the reason. Pretty hard to balance the need to protect Legolas and what Legolas himself wants. I really don't envy Hesin.
Rynan just might be what's needed to break down the barriers.
elliska
· 26 July 2005
· Chapter 8: Discoveries
I enjoyed the young children's awe over the elves in this most of all. I thought the "the elf flies" and the child dragging Legolas to come sit with him and such things were just so dear. :-) Might be very good for Legolas to see some really good Men for a change. And I am fairly certain he will end up fighting for them, maybe by then he'll do it because he's come to care for them rather than simply because it's his duty.
He did handle himself eating with them very well--he has the right to be pleased with himself. :-)
Author's reply
A child's world is so much simpler than that of adults. It's not difficult for them to find awe and joy in things that adults take for granted, though I suppose I would be awed too if I see an elf flying from tree to tree. I think Legolas will find this current experience with Men much more positive than his previous one. And you are probably right too about his attitude later on.
He should be proud of himself. As least he was able to eat with them, as opposed to getting nauseous at the mere thought of humans in the camp as was his initial reaction to Men.
French Pony
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 8: Discoveries
A friendly, non-threatening child can certainly warm up frosty relations real quick. Rynan sounds like a lovely, sunny child, especially to be so friendly and perky after whatever it was he endured. Sounds like he and Legolas will help each other start to heal.
Author's reply
That's what I thought too when I was in the planning stage for this story - that a child might be the answer to breaking down the barrier for Legolas. If nothing else, Rynan's chattering will take care of the silence between elves and humans. I am just hoping that Rynan doesn't come across as an annoying child.
Galimeril
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 8: Discoveries
Ohh! Great chapter, I like this interaction phase! Rynan seems to have a great deal of curiosity! I can't wait for your next update!
Galimeril ;D
Author's reply
Glad you liked the chapter. Legolas needed something to break down the barrier he's built against humans and I thought the curiosity of a child might do the trick.
Thanks for reading and reviewing!
daw the minstrel
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 8: Discoveries
Good for Legolas! He did a hard thing. And trust a child to believe that this should all be simple. If only the adults could be so open.
Author's reply
Legolas probably surprised himself, but I think having a chatty child around probably helped a lot. It really isn't so bad to have the simplicity of a child. At least the world seems much friendlier and problem free. I guess I can only envy them at this stage.
The Karenator
· 21 July 2005
· Chapter 7: Reluctant Escort
I've fallen way behind in reviewing, but I wanted you to know that I'm still reading and enjoying your story very much.
Poor Legolas. He was certainly caught off guard! As embarrassed as the young girl was, she did a get a view that few others have ever gotten. Of course, she doesn't know this, but I imagine she'll think about this from time to time! :>)
The upcoming assignment should be interesting as well as tense for Legolas. Even if he is a warrior now, he's still young. I have faith in him though that he'll discover that all humans aren't like the ones he encountered before.
Good chapter. I'm looking forward to more.
Karen
Author's reply
I am glad to hear that you are still following this story, and even enjoying it!
I was trying very hard to feel sorry for Legolas for being caught in the less than presentable state, but I just couldn't control that big grin on my face as I was writing about the elf in the water/elf out of the water scene. I think I might have enjoyed it as much as the human girl.
You are right. Things are going to be interesting/tense for legolas, but then it might not be such a bad thing after all.
Great to hear from you!
thechevin
· 21 July 2005
· Chapter 7: Reluctant Escort
Oh this was a pleasure to read
Thank goodness for Hesin what a fount of wisdom and common sense that elf is, Thranduil could not have chosen better, he acknowledges the difficulties and gives support without making Legolas feel even worse than he does already.
What a contrast with Bainion, who seems to have a real burr in his side about the king's youngest son.
Bainion obviously knows Legolas'history but is intent on making his life miserable anyway because he can!
I believe Legolas will benefit from being with these humans and I hope it eases his fears a little
however I do hope his brothers never find out about the bathing incident it makes the pig catching fiasco fade into insignificance, Tavero will never let him live it down if/when he finds out
Another lovely chapter to revel in and enjoy thank you
Author's reply
I think I am getting rather fond of Hesin myself even though he's a creature of my imagination. His unassuming guidance is probably what Legolas needs at this stage. If he had been assigned an overbearing protector, I think Legolas definitely would rebel.
Bainion is rather nasty, but I think he's doing Legolas a favour here by sending him off with the humans. This will give Legolas a chance to re-evaluate his opinion of humans. If Bainion realizes he's actually doing Legolas a good turn, he'll probably kick himself.
The evil part of me thinks it will be a lot of fun to write about Tavaro's reaction to Legolas getting caught in the state of undressed, but I think I'll spare Legolas for now.
Thank you for your kind words!
elliska
· 21 July 2005
· Chapter 7: Reluctant Escort
Poor Legolas, at least it was only children. That will teach him to fall asleep after bathing. Unfortunately Bainion's order does make sense since Legolas would speak Westron at least decently and it might help him learn all Men are not like the ones he remembers. But I doubt that is a comfort to him and I doubt that was Bainion's motivation for sending him either. So now Legolas and Hesin are going to be alone in the forest with orcs (and possibly worse since wedon't know why the captain is gone). This is not looking good.
Author's reply
I guess his experienced brothers forgot to warn Legolas about falling asleep after bathing. You never know who might wander into the scene.
You are right. Legolas probably can't see anything clearly at the moment other than his fear of being in the humans' presence. He might thank Bainion yet.
The warriors escorting the humans will have their work cut out for them, I can promise that much.
Bodkin
· 21 July 2005
· Chapter 7: Reluctant Escort
Well. Bainion is a considerate person, isn't he?
Although he is probably right. Legolas's knowledge of Westron does really make him an essential member of the escort. And accompanying the helpless to safety will almost undoubtedly give Legolas a rather more balanced view of humans - a race he has so far only seen as merciless torturers.
Naked elves in streams. I'm not surprised the girl blushed. Or, come to that, that Legolas did. And he was possibly more disconcerted than she was.
But the ellon will have to eat. I don't know how Hesin will wangle that.
This could be an interesting trip!
Author's reply
Legolas probably doesn't see Bainion as being a considerate person right now. He's probably wondering what the punishment is for insubordination. It makes sense to send Legolas along with the humans because his knowledge of Westron, but I am sure Bainion has other things in mind when he chose Legolas.
I think you are right. Legolas probably had a tougher time of being caught naked than the girl catching a glimpse of the naked elf.
I am hoping that it will be an interesting trip. I really don't want the readers to get bored.
French Pony
· 20 July 2005
· Chapter 7: Reluctant Escort
I think it really says something about the strength of Legolas's character that, even through his apparently well-founded fear of Men (I will get around to reading that story some day soon), he still automatically takes an interest in them, asking Hesin about their welfare and what their chances of survival are likely to be. Bainion may be a jerk, but I think he has the right idea in this case. Legolas seems to be the sort of person who could easily learn to deal with his fears by confronting the source of them. In this case, he'll be escorting a party of civilians, including children, and he'll have three other experienced warriors at his side. That's probably the best deal he could get under the circumstances.
Of course, one of those children is a little girl who caught him in his birthday suit, so I can see where there'd be trouble there. And Legolas finally learns why the other warriors take bucket baths. . .
Author's reply
Bainion is a jerk, but I think in sending Legolas on this mission, he is actually doing Legolas a favour, though I highly doubt it is his intention to help Legolas at all. Like you said, he is getting quite a good deal here being surrounded by harmless humans and experienced warriors.
I am trying to keep in mind the canonical Legolas as I write this. I think one would have to be of strong character to be part of the Fellowship, and especially so for Legolas, being the only elf.
Yes, well, the birthday suit scene - a whimpsical thing that I had in mind to write for quite a while now, if only for my own amusement.
daw the minstrel
· 20 July 2005
· Chapter 7: Reluctant Escort
I have to say I think this will be good for Legolas. He needs to see these people as individuals, not as a lump of humans. Of course, Bainion is still a jerk. The naked elf scene was quite amusing.
Author's reply
I agree with you that this experience will be good for Legolas in the long run. After all, he can't join the other Eight if he's in mortal fear of humans. As for the naked elf scene, it was a little self-indulgence on my part and I am glad that others also find amusement in it.
elliska
· 16 July 2005
· Chapter 6: Orcs and Men
That was a really interesting POV in the opening paragraphs--the orcs' coming through the forest. Evil elves--well, everything is relative to a person's POV isn't it?!
Good battle sequence. I think Bainion is going to seriously regret ignoring Feren's orders when Feren finds out. Arrogant little thing for doing that. And not smart--both for disobeying and for letting the orcs go. He is definitely trouble.
Poor Legolas--his first big battle and Men again all in one day.
Great chapter! :-)
Author's reply
I guess the concept of multiculturism is non-existent between elves and orcs. I thought it would be rather fun to show the orcs' POV for a change as to how they feel about the elves. Like you said, it's all a matter of POV.
Bainion has allowed his personal feelings get in the way of being a prudent officer. I agree that it will be unpleasant for him when Feren finds out. I haven't quite decided yet whether I will include a scene where Feren tears a strip off this wayward lieutenant.
Legolas is probably having second thoughts about being a warrior in a border patrol right about now.
Thanks for reviewing!
thechevin
· 15 July 2005
· Chapter 6: Orcs and Men
The section when Legolas and Hesin first saqw the Orc was very telling especially when Legolas offered the tree comfort and the Orc noticed that they had stopped moving, he seems to have inherited quite a bit of his father's power.
The fight itself was very tense and realistic and the stress it placed on the young warrior was plain, made all the worse by Bainion's horrible attitude towards him, that elf has major problems and I do not think Thranduil or Ferin will be in the least bit pleased if and when they find out their orders were countermanded by him!
Perhaps Ferin could come on an inspection and catch him out I would like to see that!!!
Making Legolas help to burn the bodies was another unnecessary cruelty, yes he has to become accustomed to such things but Beinion seems intent on making his life miserable
WHich worries me greatly now that the captain is gone and Beinion is in charge any sign of weakness will be pounced on and exploited and Legolas's reactions to the humans in the camp will be sure to be noticed oh dear!
Another super chapter thanks
Author's reply
Legolas is his father's son in many ways, though he certainly has a long way to go yet.
Bainion is certainly not going to get himself a fan club soon. He's nasty, but Legolas probably needs to deal with some nasty people in his life. He's been cocooned for too long (with a few exceptions, of course), but you are right. Neither the King nor big brother will be pleased with how Legolas has been treated by Bainion. Though Bainion might be totally unpleasant, he's going to be rather instrumental in helping Legolas in realizing a thing or two later on.
As always, your kind comments are greatly appreciated!
Bodkin
· 15 July 2005
· Chapter 6: Orcs and Men
Bainion is going to be trouble! One way or another he is going to get our hero into peril. Those missing orcs don't seem a good thing. Bainion in charge doesn't seem too brilliant either. And the captain swanning off to see Feren seems a bit lackadaisical. Captains are supposed to - well - captain.
Men in camp! That's a prejudice Legolas is going to have to overcome! (Dunedain Ranger-types are good, Legolas! And small children are generally harmless.)
Good thing Hesin is there at his shoulder - when he's allowed to be. Young warriors must be very vulnerable until they've had the chance to learn the difference between theory and practice.
And calming trees down is probably not wise until after the orcs have passed. Make a note!
Good chapter.
Author's reply
I think Feren will probably have to a do a major overhaul of things in this patrol when he finds out what has been happening. Both captain and lieutenant are certainly not behaving as model officers.
You are right about the men in camp. I figured it's something that Legolas should deal with before he scampers off with the Fellowship.
Legolas' inexperience is showing here, which is how I want him portrayed.
Thanks for your review!
French Pony
· 14 July 2005
· Chapter 6: Orcs and Men
I really liked the look at Elves from an Orc's point of view. They stink, and they're evil. Of course, that's just how an Orc would think! I think it gives them a little personality, and it reminds me of the tiny glimpses we get of them communicating among themselves about orders and whatnot in Return of the King.
Bainion sounds like he's suffering a serious case of testosterone poisoning. He's all swagger and "I Know Best," even to the point of flying in the face of Feren's orders regarding Hesin and Legolas. Lucky for him that the battle went as well as it did.
I wonder what happened to Legolas with Men before. Is that in one of your other stories, or will we find out about it in this one?
Author's reply
I decided I had to get in the bit about elves being smelly and evil. So much of the same had been said of orcs in these stories that I thought I'd go the other way for a bit. Got a reaction out of Legolas anyway.
People like Bainion are rampant in the workplace and I guess even the elves must be blessed with a few like him in their midst. I don't think Feren will be pleased when he finds out, if he finds out.
Legolas and Men - the story behind that is in my second story, An Act of Betrayal. Poor Legolas had quite a time in that one.
Thanks for reviewing!