All Those Who Wander by daw the minstrel
Redheredh · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 6: The Troop Commander and the King--A Missing Scene
That was very entertaining! I just might be joining Ithilden's fanbase. Happy Birthdy, Gwynhyffar!
Author's reply
Thanks, Redheredh. Ithilden basically kicks butt.
Manderly · 11 June 2007 · Chapter 6: The Troop Commander and the King--A Missing Scene
Wow! That was some confrontation between Thranduil and Ithilden! If I were in the same room with them, I'm sure I would have been forced back flat against the wall by the force of their wills. Good for Ithilden! Not many people (or in this case, elves) can stand up to the full might of Thranduil, but Ithilden did so with such admirable self-discipline and calm (at least on the surface, but Thranduil doesn't need to know that, does he?). Ithilden's right too. Had he wavered in his decision because of Thranduil's so very imposing demeanor, he would have lost all credibility as the commander of the troops, as well as Thranduil's grudging respect. Thranduil needs his totalitarian control checked once in a while and Ithilden did so wonderfully. Thanks for sharing this added chapter with us, Daw. It's always such a pleasure to see something new posted by you!
Author's reply
Thanks, Manderly. I'm interested in how these people sort out their various relationships, and with Eilian a new warrior, the balance has changed. Ithilden and Thranduil may have sort of understanding on the extent of Ithilden's authority as troop commander, but maybe Thranduil didn't think that should extend to Eilian. And Thranduil really is seeing Eilian as his son, not a warrior. So it was fun to try to watch them "negotiate."
Dot · 10 June 2007 · Chapter 6: The Troop Commander and the King--A Missing Scene
Yay!! Now, have you noticed that people seem to keep asking for Ithilden? What does that tell you?! But I saw him first. This is excellent. I loved it from the moment Ithilden braced himself outside the door. For some reason I really liked the fact that Thranduil was looking at the map rather than sitting at his desk. There’s a real sense of what’s going on in his realm and that Thranduil is constantly working to find ways to stop the spread of evil. It sounds like I wouldn’t have wanted to be Deler when those spiders got so close… I do think Ithilden was right that Thranduil wanted to know what Eilian was up to because he’s his son. I wouldn’t blame Ithilden for not wanting to tell him about it anyway. But I bet Thranduil jolly well will ask Eilian. Apparently, even what Ithilden is about to tell him won’t drive it out of his mind. I admit I laughed when Ithilden used Maltanaur as a defence. Well, why not I suppose. He does know what’s best for Eilian as a warrior. A bored Eilian is not a good thing. I knew Thranduil wouldn’t like the decision but I shrank back in shock when he jumped up like that! Whoa! Fair play to Ithilden for holding his ground. I know he believes what he’s doing is right but I imagine the fear of giving in and allowing Thranduil re-gain his influence over these decisions keeps him going too. It must have taken a lot of work to win total control over the troops in the first place, no matter how much Thranduil trusts him. "You can overrule me, of course, my lord. If you have lost confidence in me, I could step down as Troop Commander." That was very well phrased on his part – if Thranduil interferes now, he’s taking away all the trust he puts in Ithilden. What a very touching moment when Ithilden sees Thranduil’s hand tremble. I’m thinking that’s not just from fury. Thranduil might be outraged that Eilian is being sent south but his reasons – that Eilian is undisciplined, careless and too new to the job – are ones that get a person killed. I like how following that moment Ithilden switches to “adar” rather than “my lord.” "Maltanaur says Eilian needs the challenge, Adar. He promises to look after Eilian, knock him around a bit if he needs it, and bring him home if he refuses to listen to reason." I was glad to see him put it like that. That’s the kind of thing Thranduil needs to know. Eilian will be in the best place for him and even though it’s dangerous he’ll be kept as safe as possible. Then I intend to instill an acute fear of the Valar and more importantly of me before you send him anywhere." "I had plans to do that do that too, and I think Maltanaur has similar intentions." Go Thranduil! And Ithilden. And Maltanaur. And probably a few others. Not to mention that Naneth will probably let him know he’ll break her heart if anything happens to him. Hmm. If I were Eilian, I’d be wondering if it’s worth it! "If I thought there was another way, I would take it." I love that. I believe him, and so does Thranduil. And I’m glad they ended the conversation on good terms. Poor Ithilden better get used to many of his triumphs being bittersweet. This was wonderful, daw. A fantastic scene between my two favourite characters. I loved seeing Ithilden stand his ground and do what he thought was right, even when everything about the decision was difficult. But then, I think they both showed great courage here. And a very happy birthday to Gwynhyffar!
Author's reply
have you noticed that people seem to keep asking for Ithilden? What does that tell you?! I know you're kidding, but I've actually asked myself that. I think it's taken me a while to know him, and readers have picked him out as someone who's wonderfully commanding but has this secret vulnerability. At any rate, he does seem to be growing on people. Though you did see him first. :-) At this time period, Eilian is a new warrior, so I figured he, Ithilden, and Thranduil would still be sorting out their relationships. Ithilden has never commanded a brother before, after all, and Thranduil has never let someone else make decisions for a son. And Eilian would have a whole new set of relationships with both of them. So this would be one of many moments in which they sort things out. And Thranduil is frightened, poor thing. Eilian must look really ripe for trouble. But he trusts Ithilden and Maltanaur and really even Eilian, and he lets his second son go. Glad you liked it.
perelleth · 10 June 2007 · Chapter 6: The Troop Commander and the King--A Missing Scene
Wowo! We Ithilden's fans are two points ahead! Happy birthday Gwynn! and a wonderful present for both of us! Ithilden was truly brave, it took sheer courage, I believe, to do this... "Instill the fear of the Valar and, most important, of me! LOLOL! THrnaduil is so cool when angered! The tension was perfectly clear, and Ithilden's struggle was wroth the effort. I wonder if Eilian ever wondered what may have cost his brother to win him that position! Wonderful. This trend of adding chapters is making me long for some time to go and re read, daw!
Author's reply
Thank you, Perelleth. Ithilden is a guy who does what he thinks is right, even when it's unpleasant. You have to admire him. Oh wait. You don't need to be told that and neither does Gwyn. :-) I'll bet Thranduil tried to scare the wits out of Eilian before he let him go. Probably people all along the line did that, starting with Thranduil and ending with Todith, who wound up at Eilian's captain.
Gwynhyffar · 10 June 2007 · Chapter 6: The Troop Commander and the King--A Missing Scene
*squeeeeee* My two favourite elves- Scary!Angry!Thranduil and Determined!Ithilden!! Ithilden has guts, that's for sure. I don't think I would want to face down Thranduil in any situation, let alone one where he feels he has to protect one of his sons. He definitely knows how to argue with Thranduil, telling him that if he isn't doing a good job then he'll step down. I suppose he's been through trying to be convincing to Thranduil thousands of times already so he knows that after the initial blow up, the king will sit back down and listen. It's good to see them together where they disagree because I think it really shows how much Thranduil trusts Ithilden's judgement, even if he disagrees. This was a WONDERFUL thing to wake up to this morning, Daw! Thank you!!!
Author's reply
You're very welcome, Gwyn. Happy birthday just a couple of days early. Ithilden is a tough guy. In lots of ways, he's Thranduil's closest confidant, and I think the king trusts him as he trusts few others. Of course, Ithilden has a lot of years on his younger brothers, and his mother was around for all his growing up. I think all that together let him establish himself in a way Eilian and Legolas have to do later. Glad you liked it.
Jay of Lasgalen · 10 June 2007 · Chapter 6: The Troop Commander and the King--A Missing Scene
It's interesting to see this confrontation between Thranduil and Ithilden - and what a confrontation! Thranduil's reaction was exactly as I'd expect - you can hardly blame him for being horrified and angry, and for doubting Ithilden's sanity :>) Ithilden was courageous in standing his ground, and making his ultimatum: 'You can overrule me, of course, my lord. If you have lost confidence in me, I could step down as Troop Commander.' There's great tension there, Daw. I enjoyed reading the rest of this tale again, and remembering the blanket and 'Orc spit!' Thanks for writing these missing scenes - I'm enjoying them as much as the birthday recipients.
Author's reply
I wouldn't have wanted to be Ithilden telling Thranduil what he'd decided. He gets points for courage. Actually these two together are fun to write. They're both pretty sure they should have their own way. But then, they're male. :-)
Alisha B · 9 June 2007 · Chapter 6: The Troop Commander and the King--A Missing Scene
Great addition! As always, it's a pleasure to read your work. Keep it up!
Author's reply
Thanks, Alisha. It's nice to visit these people once in a while.
meckinock · 9 June 2007 · Chapter 6: The Troop Commander and the King--A Missing Scene
It's always great to see Thranduil and Ithilden at odds, because it doesn't happen very often. And as always with your conficts, both sides have a point. Ithilden knows Eilian isn't cut out to be a palace guard. Without a real threat to focus all that energy on, he'll self-destruct. Thranduil knows it too, but on the other hand it's crazy to send a green soldier into the most dangerous assignment in the realm. What a great set-up for a confrontation. And I laughed when Ithilden stood up to the old man and threatened to resign as troop commander. What came through here was that both of them want what's best for Eilian.
Author's reply
Thank you, Meckinock. It was hard to get my head back in this moment and see what both Thranduil and Ithilden would have at stake here. Ithilden was concerned for his own authority, true, but really they'd both been increasingly concerned about Eilian. Thank goodness for Maltanaur. He saw what needed to happen and watched Eilian's back until he got some sense.
rikki · 9 June 2007 · Chapter 6: The Troop Commander and the King--A Missing Scene
Oh, such a good missing scene, I love Ithilden's ability to show his king that it is in Eilian's best interest that he be sent south with Maltanaur. Such a fine line between king and troop commander and father and son(s). Making decisions regarding his own sons must have been hard on Thranduil, even though he knew that it was in the best interest of the people. I love your Thranduil, he loves his sons, even though he may tear out his hair with Eilian's antics, but he is also such a regal elf. I would still love to see how you would write how he would handle Legolas joining the 9 walkers.
Author's reply
Thanks, Rikki. It's interesting to try to write these scenes so they'll fit in but also stand on their own. If I were showing this decision in a story, I think I'd spread it out over several chapters with other stuff going on in the foreground and Thranduil and Ithilden wrangling about this in the background. But this is a present, so what the heck. :-) I'm very fond of Thranduil myself. He must have been frantic when he heard what his baby was doing, but there wouldn't have been much he could do about it, poor guy.
erunyauve · 3 July 2006 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
>>“When I was your age, I had a friend whose language would set fire to the forest. He is one of the most valiant warriors I know, and I treasure his friendship, but I am not sure I would want him spending time with Legolas.” I literally spit out my juice at that! I'm looking forward to reading your latest story. I loved the bit about Legolas' blanket in this one - I have to confess that I still have my 'rag' (as my Grandma called it) tucked away in a drawer. And it's so interesting to see Eilian at such a young age - in the stories in which he's an older, married Captain, I rather miss the Eilian who still has so much to learn.
Author's reply
One of the pleasures of writing these stories for so long is being able to insert those little references to characters and incidents that readers will not to have explained. Beliond is great. I still have my son's blanket too. He'd probably be mortified if he knew. I rather miss the Eilian who still has so much to learn. Thranduil begs to disagree.
Nelsonia · 20 February 2006 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
Hi Daw Long time no see! How is the novel going? Any chance of seeing onther of your stories at SOA soon? The legions of fans (as I belive we are)claim for another story! Anyway I hope all is well and I wish you all the best with publishing!
Author's reply
I just finished a revision of the novel last night. And I'm planning to do a fanfic to make myself sane again!
lmw · 25 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
I have been away from these stories for a while, and have just had time to catch up. This one was, as usual, just great! I love the way you write your family - from the King to Legolas. I really like that Eilian confided in his Adar, those moments don't seem to happen often. Keep up the excellent writing!
Author's reply
Thank you. I've been away from them for a while too and I've really missed them. Eilian and Thranduil manage to break through to one another once in a while, thank goodness. If they didn't, they might drift so far apart they can never find one another again.
Elentari · 22 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
Again, read them all in one go. Fantastic. I was at the point where I suffer from withdrawals, and this fic went down rather nicely! :P I thought the flashbacks different from your usual style, but I enjoyed seeing all those gap-filling scenes. I can't commend a one scene because I love everything you write , but I did so love Thranduil's decision to look for and talk with Eilian. The talk in itself was touching too. Young Legolas, as usual, is absolutely captivating in his childish charm. Your grasp of the cute factor is unbelievable. The news of original fic makes me both sad and happy. It is great to see that someone with so much talent is trying her own wings, and at th same time I mourn the slow-down on the House of Oropherion (Agree with maltanaur there, they rule!). Nevertheless, I am quite curious to see what you're preparing. when the project is done and flying high, send us a note so we can take a look on this new universe, new characters. Your fan, Elentari.
Author's reply
I was suffering withdrawal too, which is why I wrote the story. I love these people. I'm so pathetic. The scene where Thranduil talks to Eilian was hard to imagine at first, but when I managed to get some sense of it, I was pleased. These two are odds and then every once in a while they connect, and then they whirl apart again. But if they didn't connect occasionally, their relationship could have broken down entirely. So Thranduil did a good thing here because Eilian wasn't able to make the effort. My original world feels thinner than Tolkien's to me, but then whose isn't?? He was a master. But I hope people get a chance to read this eventually and want to and enjoy it.
White Wolf · 6 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
I like the conversation between Thranduil and Eilian. I think they made a little more progress toward better understanding each other, though that will be a lifelong endeavor, I fear, even with them being immortal. Eilian is so lucky to have Maltanaur as his keeper. That elf is wise and cares enough about Eilian to make him work to be the best warrior he is capable of being. I love Legolas's spunk, when he went to see Maltanaur. That was great, and I think Maltanaur was impressed with the elfling. He must have looked like a stern, miniature Thranduil. And he even ended up with some gingerbread for him and his friends!
Author's reply
that will be a lifelong endeavor, I fear, even with them being immortal. That's a good point. They're just too different to ever find being together completely problem free. And I also really like your observation about Maltanaur making Eilian work to be his best. That's just what he does. It's what Thranduil would like to do, but Maltanaur is willing to be cagy and clever, while Thranduil wants to just tell Eilian what he should do.
elliska · 5 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
Sorry, I thought I reviewed this but I'm high on cold medicine so... This was great but I am so sorry to see it end. I love little Legolas's honesty about the spiders and his greeting for Thranduil--both very dear. And sharing treats is certainly the way to popularity. :-) Poor Eilian--I remember in one of your stories Thranduil wonders that surely there must have been a time when Eilian's face brightened to see him as Legolas's does. That line comes back to mind in moments like this one--Eilian is so tense when Thranduil wants to talk to him and sadly I understand why. They just aren't at the point now where they understand each other yet. But this was a good talk. “When I was your age, I had a friend whose language would set fire to the forest. He is one of the most valiant warriors I know, and I treasure his friendship, but I am not sure I would want him spending time with Legolas.” Hehehe, wonder who that was. :-) Poor Eilian again for the story of what happened to Maltanaur. What Eilian did was not all that bad--he just had bad luck that the branch didn't hold him--but it sure was costly. Of course he shouldn't have really been on it but... Very scary, sad scene. Poor Eilian a third time that Thranduil foisted what would now be a restless Legolas off on Eilian--he knew perfectly well he would not be lucky enough to get through another night without the blanket so he gave the problem to Eilian. That was evil! ;-) And poor Eilian one last time when he went into the infirmary and Maltanaur wasn't there--you must be trying to give the poor Elf a heart attack. Maltanaur is a clever thing, isn't he? I guess he'd have to be with Eilian as his charge. That was a great conversation! And even better was the one with Legolas. That just cracked me up because I had just re-read My Brother's Keeper where Legolas and Maltanaur also have a bit of a run in--things to come for Maltanaur. He must be crazy to agree to guard Thranduil's family. And I loved "I had a lovely time." Nana would be proud. :-) I am so sorry to see this end, daw. Please tell us you will write another one soon.
Author's reply
Thank you, Elliska. I'm sorry about your cold. I'm a big baby when I have one. Sometimes I wonder how things would have been different for Eilian if his mother had lived. I think he would have matured faster, and I think he and Celuwen would have bonded a lot sooner and probably with the proper ceremonies. Lorellin would have taken care of Celuwen's father quite smoothly, I'll bet. I love Maltanaur. He's very fond of Eilian and sees handling him as a challenge that takes all his strength and ingenuity. I think that he and Beliond each regard the other's charge as an unknown factor in their handling of their own, so they're kind of wary of the other Thranduilion. Legolas wanted to end the visit on a polite note, as he exited having delivered his warning and scored some gingerbread. :-) I don't know about "soon," but I will write another one.
emjo · 4 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
Well I'm sad to see this story end but great job Daw. I know you'll be working on your original fic but please don't stay away to long, your stories are always a treat!
Author's reply
I really enjoyed writing this. Fanfic feels unpressured to me compared to original fic so I get absorbed in it and just rush fearlessly ahead. As a consequence, it's fun! Also, perhaps not unconnected, I think my fanfic stories are better written than my original fic. Too bad the Tolkien estate would object if I sent it to a publisher. :-)
Rhiannon · 4 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
Oh, I love that Thranduil reached out to Eilian. They need to be gentler with each other. And how funny is little Legolas telling Maltanaur what to do. I agree with Maltanaur - I enjoy the house of Oropher too.
Author's reply
I like the way you put that -- they do need to be gentler, but they have such a hard time. They get their backs up and then they start spitting at one another. I have to say I agree with Maltanaur too. :-)
ScarlettPendragon · 4 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
Hi Daw!! Yaay!! What a wonderful end to an amazing story!! I love Little!Legolas and his impeccable manners - “Thank you for having me. I had a lovely time.” - indeed!! Especially after critiquing Maltanaur on his protection abilities!! LOL!! And Thranduil!! Go!Thranduil!! I loved how he came through for Eilian, just listening to his tale of what went wrong without chastising or correcting him!! I love it when Thranduil can be "Adar first, King second", and I'm sure he does too!! I found it very realistic that Eilian was torturing himself over his mistakes, when Maltanaur didn't blame him at all - brooding over regrets and trying to be impossibly perfect seems to be a failing of the House of Oropher!! And don't think I didn't notice that foreshadowing you snuck in - "The world was wide and cruel, and he was going to have to let those he loved wander in it without him on guard at their side. It could not be helped." Bad Daw!! I stuck my fingers in my ears and chanted "LALALALA I'm not listening." Well, I couldn't really stick my fingers over my eyes, or else how would I read?! **grin** No, it really was a lighthearted, yet suspensful and action-packed tale, and I enjoyed it very much!! Thank you so much for writing it, and giving us another glance into the Woodland Realm!! Of course, any time you feel like taking us on another adventure, I will be extremely grateful and I look forward to more stories (hopefully!!)!! Thank you again, Scarlett
Author's reply
Legolas made me laugh. He lays down the law to Maltanaur and then announces what a nice time he had. I don't think he's quite got the social niceties down yet. Thranduil did well in what was a difficult situation for him. Mostly, he held his tongue and let his concern show. And lo and behold, Eilian responded and vowed to be more careful. Now you'd think Thranduil would remember that! But no, old bad habits die hard. I'm glad you enjoyed this. I had a wonderful time writing it. Thank you for having me. :-)
TigerLily713 · 4 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
I am so glad you are writing again! I've missed my weekly fix! What a great new story in the wonderful saga that you have created around Legolas and his life. I eagerly await more!
Author's reply
I'm glad you liked it, Lily. I'm going to go work on my original fic for a while, and it turns out I have to work too, but then I'll be back with some more fanfic. I really enjoyed writing this and miss these characters when I'm not working with them.
DJ · 4 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
Thank you for this wonderful story. I have missed your stories and realized that I'd never told you how much I enjoyed them. When I came upon the first one, I had to go back and read all of them in sequence. And then of course I always watched for your new stories. I am glad you are back, and I wish you sucsess with the story you converted to a YA novel. Have you considered submitting the manuscript directly to publishers? Some do consider manuscripts received "over the transom." I worked for Highlights for Children for 12 years, and almost every issue carried at least one story by a new author. Their children's trade book divisions started after I left, so I'm not sure how they accept manuscripts. Thranduil talking to Elian was wonderful; I think it was good for both of them. Perhaps Thranduil should listen more the the echos of his wife's voice. Eilian promising Maltanaur that he would be more careful--so this was the start of Eilian as the respected and (reasonably) cautious warrior seen in your stories set later in time. I love little Legolas and his relationships to his family. Checking on them to make sure they're all right, sleeping with his father after he was lost, wanting Eilian to stay home. And then he goes to visit Maltanaur and tells him in no uncertian terms to take good care of Eilian. And Maltanaur plots how to use Legolas' love for Eilian to "encourage" Eilian to cooperate with Maltanaur's efforts to keep him safe. I liked the little glimpses we got of the past, such as how Eilian was assigned South so soon after he became a warrior. However I found the transitions a little awkward, not as smooth as the rest of your writing. I can't say exactly what would make them better--the only thing that comes to mind is what I've seen elsewhere. That generally starts with something like "Ithilden thought back twenty years:" and then start a new paragraph with the flashbacks in italics, and maybe indented from the rest of the text. I don't know if Chicago sets out style rules for flashbacks or not, so I don't know if the italics thing conforms to the style manual. This was another wonderful story overall. DJ
Author's reply
Thank you so much for your kind words, and also for that bit about submitting to publishers directly. I've been holding off doing that until I query agents, planning on going to the publishers next. I figure if an agent rejects me and a publisher accepts, I can always go back to the agent. But if a publisher rejects me and I then get an agent, the agent can't go to that publisher. I also thought that the transitions into the flashbacks were not just awkward but not always clear, particularly since I had Eilian in two different time frames behaving somewhat similarly. That made it harder for readers to tell the timeframes apart, I think. I've really missed writing about Little Legolas. I love trying to get into his head and see what he thinks makes sense. He certainly knows who he's going to blame if things go wrong! You've made me feel better about the original fic. I'm struggling a little.
Noor · 4 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
Lovely ending Daw...it explains why Eilian went south early and why he became just a bit more sensible. So when do you start the next one?? Thanks again Noor
Author's reply
Thank you, Noor. Those are exactly the threads I was trying to weave into my story arc. I enjoyed writing this story. Doing it reminded me of how much fun fanfic is. I'm working on revising a piece of original fic right now, but I'll eventually do another story. I can't seem to stay away.
Socket · 3 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
OMG, that last image of bossy little Legolas interrogating Maltanaur was just too funny! What a wonderful way to leave this story. And I loved the scene between Thranduil and Eilian -- looks like they've found a way to communicate with each other without Lorellin's presence. Thranduil did a gret job of changing his entire manner to suit his middle child. I'll bet Ithilden rarely, if ever, sees that side of their adar. Daw, your OCs are just fantastic -- every single one of them is unique and interesting. You've populated Middle-Earth in such an enjoyable manner. Thank you so much for sharing your stories with us -- I can't wait for the next one.
Author's reply
I amused myself sending Legolas to set Maltanaur straight on what was expected of Eilian's guard. He's been brooding on the fact that Eilian will leave again when Maltanaur is well, and he just wants to make sure the guard is aware of how angry he'll be if Maltanaur screws up again! Thranduil made a real effort with Eilian. He planned it out ahead of time and thought about what Lorellin would have done. And he was rewarded by having his son tell him what was troubling him. Thank you so much for your kind words about my OCs. I admit to being shamelessly fond of them. I miss them when I'm not writing about them.
perelleth · 3 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
What a nice gapfiller daw! I've particularly enjoyed Maltanaur's starring in this chapter. HE understands Eilian better than his own father and it was so sweet of him to go talk with Ithilden about Eilian's potential. elian truly owes much of what he has become to this kind and caring elf. Legolas' visit to MAltanaur's house was so fun, the bossy little elfling! It took him some years to learn to appreciate Maltanaur :-) Thranduil and Eilian's strained relationship is so sad,I ringed when Elian sudenly thought that his Adar wanted him to keep his distance rom Legolas poor one, he's so unsure of his own worth in front of his Adar's eyes! And of course, I liked Ithilden's silent fight. Why can they not all stay where I can keep an eye on them? The weight of command and responsibility is terrible! Good story daw, thanks for being back
Author's reply
Thank you, Perelleth. I was surprised when I got to this chapter and Maltanaur was in just about every scene. That told me how central he was to Eilian's maturation. Legolas doesn't quite appreciate that yet, I'd say! LOL. He was annoyed that the silly guard let himself get hurt so he couldn't take good care of Legolas's brother. Ithilden was learning to let go here a little. That's hard for him, I think. He likes to be in control. I've had a great time writing this. Thank you for reading it.
thechevin · 3 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
Well I am sorry but I have to start with a complaint. It was too short!!!! I so did not want it to end. I have enjoyed this little look into the lives of the family Thranduil, as ever so many riches and treats I feel as if someone has offered me apples and honey. I loved how Thranduil got his hard headed second son to talk to him and how he was able to offer him support Maltanaur is an elf and a half how fortunate that he likes being with Eilian and handles him so well. I would like to have seen him hauling Eilian off by the scruff of his neck but then that would have spoiled the story Thranduil is such a kind Adar allowing Legolas to spend the night with the warriors, it had nothing to do with his disturbed night of course As for his comments on his friend well of course it can only be Beliond But best of all was Legolas bearding Maltanaur in his den and laying down the law over care and keeping of elder brothers that really made me smile Look forward to more as soon as you are able to return to this lovely corner of Middle Earth thank you Judy
Author's reply
It did turn out to be short, but it's longer than I thought it would be! At first, I thought this would be just a one chapter deal with the lost elfling, but then I decided it was a good chance to tell some of this other stuff too. I was surprised when I got to this chapter and Maltanaur was in every scene. He plays an important part in Eilian's life, I think, and thus an important part in the life of the rest of the family too. Without him, Eilian might indeed have been ruined. Not to mention dead. So Legolas knows who to talk to about taking care of Eilian, and he just wants to be sure Maltanaur understands that he'll be very angry if Maltanaur screws up again! Thanks for your kind words, Judy.
The Karenator · 3 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Concerning Maltanaur
“When I was your age, I had a friend whose language would set fire to the forest. He is one of the most valiant warriors I know, and I treasure his friendship, but I am not sure I would want him spending time with Legolas.” LOL! This is one of my favorite lines. Oh, Beliond will get his chance to 'improve' Legolas's vocabulary. Thranduil is talking about Beliond, isn't he? If he's not, don't tell me. Let me just be awed by this wonderful bit of foreshadowing. :>) The children playing was a sweet note. Poor Legolas isn't quite ready to let Eilian out of his sight though...even for a few seconds to fetch some feathers. Too bad that feeling is gone completely by the time Legolas is a little older and perfects the art of slipping out of the palace. Ah, the little ones grow up so soon. One day they crave your company and the next, they can't wait to dump you. Thranduil reined his anger in and did a fine job of trying to connect to Eilian. The most interesting part, I thought, was that he opened up and tried to reassure Eilian, and Eilian tried to respond in kind, but both of them still kept a small distance between them. They went as far as they could without completely resolving their issues. The issues remain, but they've both taken a step toward understanding. Cautious, but truthful. I liked that. Of course, there's a price to pay. Eilian gets the little munchkin for a bed fellow that night. LOL! And Thranduil gets his cot to himself. I loved Legolas's visit to Maltanaur. He was a riot in his mini-Thranduil role. The bossy little elfling. And shrewd Maltanaur saw a useful tool in Legolas to use with Eilian. Eilian would do anything for Legolas and Maltanaur saw an opportunity. Good for him. “Thank you for having me. I had a lovely time.” Legolas's manners were impeccable and quite amusing. Here he had shown up to lay down the elfling's law, but wrapped his visit up with a nice 'Thank you. I had a lovely time telling you to pay better attention to your job.' Too funny. The little guy's heart was in the right place. I think. Maltanaur was amused anyway. Maltanaur is an excellent 'handler' of all the House of Oropher. Wonderful story, Daw. I enjoyed it immensely. It was so good to be back in your Mirkwood. I'll look forward to another visit when time permits. Karen
Author's reply
Yeah, it's Beliond. I hesitated, because it was kind of an insider joke, but I couldn't resist. Ah, the little ones grow up so soon. One day they crave your company and the next, they can't wait to dump you. Oh man, ain't it the truth. One day my son talked non-stop to me and the next I couldn't pry a word out of him. It's tricky to write about Thranduil and Eilian. Thranduil loves his son and genuinely wants to help him. And Eilian would value Thranduil's approval and needs his reassurance. But you can't fix a difficult emotional situation in a single talk. At least, that's been my experience. So they kind of hold back a little too. I hope Maltanaur told Eilian about Legolas's visit when he finally showed up. Eilian would be both amused and touched. Legolas knows who to blame when things go wrong, and it's not Eilian! Thank you for your kind words, Karen. Thank you for having me. I had a lovely time. :-)