The Seeds of Time by daw the minstrel
sofia · 4 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes
Go Lorellin! Saving the day. I liked the end, when they get rescued and their all happy. But its sad too, reading about how the want Nana to take care! That pulls at the heart strings, Daw!
Author's reply
I so seldom write about heroic action by a woman. This was fun to do. Glad you liked it, Sofia.
elliska · 4 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Heroes
I'm just laughing a little at Eilian and Thranduil. I am really not sure who I feel sorrier for. Thranduil is so used to being in command and he just had absolutely no hope of winning that one. And Eilian! I can just see him trying to figure out what to do. Poor things. Lorellin really is heroic here. That would be a really scary thing to do (water in caves really scares me). But she is exactly what was needed since she was smaller and she was exactly who the children needed. I was so relieved when she came out safely. And I loved the reunion with all the children and their families. Poor little Turgon's courage was about spent at that point--even he needed his mum. Very dear! And I just love the picture of all of them together snuggled in bed at the end. I am glad you gave us that because it is something they will have for only a short while longer, so it is nice to see. Ada said, "I love you too, Nana, and I think you must take care as well." Again, poor Thranduil. This was a tense adventure, so I am glad to get to the happy ending! :-)
Author's reply
It felt very bizarre to put Eilian in the position of appealing to Thranduil to overrule Lorellin. I don't imagine that happened too often. But poor Thranduil indeed. He has to let the older two go into dangerous situations, but he probably feels he can and should protect Lorellin and Legolas. It made me sad to show Legolas so secure because, as you say, not for much longer.
perelleth · 2 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
I thnk that of all the versions that you have written of these three (or their substitutes) floundering on a makeshift or ruinous boat, this one is the best. I can feel the cold, and the conflicting feelings, Turgnon seeing it as a new adventure, Annael scared to tears and poor LEgolas in the middle. It was paingful, and laborious and dangerous, and while still in such short, almost snapped sentences, you keep the tension with very good and clear descriptions of waht is going on through the feelings. Giving the river a personality in LEgolas´eyes " it did not want him" was a masterful touch. The rest of the chapter is great, of course, with the tension, and LOrellin's feeling that something was going on and Eilian and THrnaduil's reactions... NOw I have a question that has been nagging for some time. WHere, when and how (these are three questions, I fear) did Eilian learn to be such a god scout? I mean, it is such a good talent of his, and being such a restless and impatient boy I could not help wondering, from time to time, who took the time and dedication to teach him to be so observant, attentive and patient, as a good scout must needs be. Someone must have seen thrpugh the restless boy and devoted time to teach him how to listen and look for clues, if not to people, then at least to the forest... IS there a tale somewhere?
Author's reply
Thank you so much for that comment about this version of the boys-on-boats story. I'd just been reading advice about stretching the tension in a story, which jibed in my head with my beta's advice not to rush (which is always my tendency), so I was practicing here. Slowly, slowly, we get better. Hm. Eilian and scouting. I've always thought of it as coming from a connection to the forest that's deeper even that than of other wood elves because he's the king's son. But you're right that somewhere he learned too. I've never thought about it. There's a tale somewhere, I guess, but it's not written yet. :-)
perelleth · 2 April 2007 · Chapter 5: Into the Tunnel
I finally have some time to sit and read. Lorellin is coming out very well, and fitting perfectly with the rest of the family that we know so well. LEgolas and his friends are the same they will grow up to be and Eilian battling his demons to the point of not being able to concentrate in kissing a maiden is such a sad and telling thing! I was reading today an article in the local news about how books for children were so needed because they played a role in educationg that was more needed than ever...and it made me think f your tales daw, because there are always things that make you reflect on how children make their decisions, how obedience and desobedience have consequences and howadults and childrens at times fight with the same difficulties though at different level. And these three getting into the tunnel after being told off severely and shepherderd to the cottage was so utterly what little children would do to get into trouble without noticing that actually no one is absolutely to blame here!!! BUt I am jumping to the next chapter because I want to know what happens to Captain Turgon and his merry sailors!
Author's reply
How's the fight for internet coming, Perelleth? We miss you! I'm so glad you think Lorellin is coming out well. She's been interesting to write. Without thinking about her too much, I had sort of idealized her in my head, but when I started writing, she turned out more mixed: devoted to her family, stubborn, in love with her husband but with a mind of her own. It seems to me that there are many more good kids' books out there now than when I was a kid. But I'm still glad you thought of my stories in the same time space with "were so needed." I'll tell that to the next agent I query.
pipinheart · 2 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
Very nice...It keeps you hanging... Legolas and friends are not in a very ghood situation, and Turgon's nana dosen't keep a good eye on them. Eilian found them, but will he be able to get back to them without harm to himself or them...Can't wait to find out... Update soon...
Author's reply
Legolas and his friends are in a bad situation indeed. It's a good thing there's a brave big brother. I'm working on how the rescue might happen. It's tricky. :-)
Dot · 2 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
The tension in this chapter is heart-stopping. I spent a lot of time holding my breath! And making “little squeaky noises” right along with poor little Annael… I love Turgon. He’s so energetic and brave and spirited and imaginative. He may not really know what’ll happen and is as frightened as the other two (I like how Legolas is surprised at that) but whether he realises it or not I’m sure his determination helped focus them. "Swim, otter friends!" How do you come up with these things?? That’s fantastic. It was a really interesting experience being in Legolas’ head for this. He has his own way of working everything out but I was getting really impatient because as an adult I just wanted him to look around and see if there was any way they could get out of this – I don’t think he heard me yelling at him, though ;-) Turgon kept his head well enough. As I recall, he does the same when their raft is wrecked a good few years down the line. The little exchange between Lorellin and the trees is just lovely! Gorgeous. I’m feeling bad for Mírdaniel. Where’s that husband of hers when the bed needs to be put together? Off writing a song, I suppose. Thank goodness Eilian stumbled across the frightened Naneths. I like Amadith, by the way. I wonder, though, if she’s discovering that life with Eilian can be a little too exciting sometimes. I do love seeing Eilian take control. And Thranduil too :-) I wanted to smack Eilian (sorry) when he started to blame himself for not knowing his baby brother was there. I sincerely hope the lesson he learns from this is that you can’t predict what kids will do and not that he did anything wrong. *scowls* Eilian’s hunt for the elflings was incredibly tense. I was worn out waiting for a break that wasn’t coming! Although wet, half naked and heroic Eilian did help… I liked hearing his thought processes – it was still terrifying but somehow made the situation more manageable than if he’d been feeling blind panic. "We broke your boat." Annael's brow was wrinkled. "We are sorry.” Aaaw! That’s so Annael. "These things happen." LOL! Sure they do. If you’re Eilian or Turgon at any rate. I think Eilian probably made the right decision to go, even though I hate the thought of the elflings being left alone. But he knew what probably happened and still had trouble finding them. Plus, there are all sorts of thoughts that could go through Ithilden’s and Thranduil’s heads when they see his clothes. "We will be sleeping puppy friends and stay all in a heap." Gosh I love little Turgon. He's so affectionate and his imagination really does help him cope with anything. Poor kid. I suppose it would have to. What a scary chapter. Please tell me they’re going to stay put!
Author's reply
I'm glad this was tense. It's so odd because I never can tell if a chapter will seem that way to readers. By the time I'm done writing it, all I see is what I've struggled with. Turgon is so sweet I can't stand it. Poor baby. I want to smack his parents. He has the potential to be such a nice little guy if he has some guidance. Instead he has to use his own judgment and that's not always so hot. I must admit take-charge Eilian and especially take-charge Thranduil were very appealing to me too. Does that say something odd about our psyches? :-)
obsidianj · 2 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
Phew! Eilian found them. But still the danger is not over, since Eilian neglected to tell anyone where he would go. Poor Lorellin now has two of her sons in danger, since Eilian is not on safe ground just yet. Is Turgon always living in his fantasy land? I think it is his way of coping with a less than desirable reality. I love it how he turns each new development into some kind of role playing game, first playing sailor than being an otter... So, Eilian can't stay with them, then he will play puppy litter. That way he doesn't have to think about the consequences of being left in this dangerous place. Legolas and Annael have a much better grasp of reality, which doesn't help them in this place.
Author's reply
When I was planning this chapter, I really debated Eilian's actions. Would he get help, go himself, tell someone, leave them after he found them? I finally decided he'd react to the urgency of his mother's feelings and his own need for action and just dive in. Poor guy. I don't think there were any good choices and, as you say, he and the elflings still aren't safe. I love poor Turgon. Not that I'd want him playing with my kid, mind you.
The Karenator · 2 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
I'm going to get this review done today if it's the only thing I get done. If I don't, you'll have another chapter up and I'll be even further behind! I love this story. The guys are adorable, if not a tad mischievous. Turgon is a riot. He's so imaginative. Nothing seems to daunt his enthusiasm for making the best of any situation. He's a sailor, an otter, a puppy! Whatever it takes for him to manage his way through every bump in the road, he invents it. I think we need Lucy to explain the depth you've given this little guy, but he's come up with some inventive coping mechanisms for having inattentive parents. Of course, some of it is simply who he is, but I imagine he's spent a lot of time entertaining himself. I can't help but like him. He doesn't mean any harm. There's no malice in anything he does. He's just delighted with all the possibilities of life. Unfortunately, he has few boundaries. He's an extreme version of Eilian in a lot of ways. Eilian's reins were held by strong hands or he might have been a Turgon. But they're kindred souls, though motivated by different stimuli. Think that might be why Legolas is so attracted to Turgon? Or am I way off base? Okay, not to be shallow, but let's be shallow. Wet! Eilian in wet leggings. 'Nuff said. I think my favorite scene was when Lorellin burst into the Great Hall. Thranduil certainly knew immediately something bad was up. Then Thranduil went all kingly giving orders. That was as good as Wet! Eilian. I can't wait to see what happens next. This is a really engaging story. I'm glad we're getting an opportunity to see Lorellin alive and as herself. All we've known about her for the most part is what the men in her life remember about her after her death. As we all know, remembering someone post death is not always exactly accurate. It's always a little more shiny than reality. This is the longest we've been able to be with her and watch her. She's a terrific character. You've given her depth and brought her to life. She's real. That is so cool.
Author's reply
I have to fly to my in-laws early Friday, so it's possible the next chapter will take a while, depending on how much I get done today or while I'm supposed to be working. he's come up with some inventive coping mechanisms Exactly. Just like he says that when he's sleeping on the floor, he's camping. You can see why he wants friends. His parents love him. They're just in their own world. I actually never thought about how Legolas might be attracted to him because he's like Eilian but that's a great point. I think I'll pretend I meant it all along. I love commanding Thranduil. And Lorellin does too. But she's also her own person. A couple thousand years of experience will do that for you. And she's shown me the flaws or maybe just character traits that led to her death, as well as her love for her family. Thank you for saying nice things about her. She's growing on me.
Bodkin · 2 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
Do you know, Turgon is revealing himself as heart-breakingly adorable. If dangerously unaware of the dangers around him - and sadly lacking in parents and loving big brothers who are there to risk their own lives to keep him safe. His death would have caused an outcry if you had written it after this. 'Otter-friends' - 'sailor Annael' - 'sleeping puppy friends' ... he had the potential to be such a wonderful Wood-elf and intrepid warrior. While Legolas is so out of his depth (in more ways than one). This is not the way to take your first steps beyond your nuclear family. (Is this why Legolas was left at home when his Nana went to visit her kin? I hope not - he might find it another reason why his mother's death is his fault.) Eilian is an absolute hero - even if he is being heroic in the way that suits him best. I love the image of him coming out of the water to the rescue - and the way he heads off to bring help. And Lorellin's abrupt arrival in the Great Hall - and her marshalling of the royal resources. Masterly. I love the river - it has a personality all of its own - and the closeness of the elves to the forest and the way the trees talk to Lorellin. Terrifying chapter. So good.
Author's reply
I love Turgon. He just needed someone with sense to take care of him until he got some himself. I'm not sure I could have killed him if I'd written more about him before I did it. I don't think this is why Legolas was left behind when Nana went to visit. Poor baby. I can hardly bear to think about it. He skinned his knee and he needs Nana. And Nana has been a revelation to me. She's like a mother bear whose cub is in danger and no one had better get in her way.
Manderly · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
Eilian to the rescue! Not surprising that he can trace the tracks of the elflings so quickly. He was in their shoes not so long ago himself. Besides, his precious baby brother was in danger. Nothing short of death would get in his way of rescuing Legolas. And he was so good with the elflings after he found them, rather than going into an instant angry, scolding mode as he could have so easily (and understandably) done after having had such a fright. I wonder how Ithilden would have reacted in this same situation. You have to give it to Turgon. Even when threatened with death, he still clings onto that crazy sense of adventure, though I'm sure he won't want to be an otter again any time soon after this escapade. Is the rest of cavalry coming soon? I really don't like the idea of Eilian having to battle that angry river again on his own.
Author's reply
I love heroic!Eilian. This sort of thing is right up his alley. It's crazy daring and it's in the service of someone he loves. To the elflings, he must have been an amazing sight, emerging out of the river to save them. Turgon amuses me. He has a vivid imagination and is little enough to let it all out. I remember once walking through a mall with my son when he was a preschooler. He was muttering to himself and then he stopped and crouched down with one hand on the floor and a leg out behind him. When I asked what he was doing, he said, "I'm participating in the Olympics." It was an Olympic year and track and field had been on. He was getting ready to start a foot race right there in the mall. Cavalry on the way. :-)
ponypetter · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
I can see Thranduil and Ithilden going apoplectic upon finding Eilian's things by the river. They wouldn't know about the boat, so they'd have to wonder why the heck he jumped in the river when it's as high as it is now. They would both have to assume the worst, since there'd be no signs of either Eilian or the little ones. I think Eilian is right to go back.
Author's reply
That was my reasoning too, though I had to think about it. I sometimes find it hard to decide what a character would do because, to me at least, it's not obvious. So then usually, I just have the character reason about it too. :-)
ponypetter · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 5: Into the Tunnel
It's a good thing Eilian didn't know why those three were trying to build a fire. I bet he would have felt absolutely terrible seeing what a string influence he has over the younger elves, and not just Legolas.
Author's reply
That's right, he doesn't know why they're building a fire, and he would feel terrible. He'd never want to harm Legolas.
ponypetter · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 4: Games
Lothiriel is so much more understanding of Eilian's personality than Thranduil. I just have to imagine the scene that would have resulted had Thranduil been the one to interrupt that game.
Author's reply
You're so right. I can just hear Thranduil lecturing about being irresponsible and impulsive. Too bad Eilian doesn't know about some of the wilder things Thranduil did as a youth.
ponypetter · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 3: Meetings
I think we finally got to see the why Legolas adores Eilian so much: he really does walk on water!
Author's reply
LOLOL. I admit I made myself laugh by showing him literally walking on water. What more could a little brother ask for?
ponypetter · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 2: Funeral
I don't suppose Thranduil and Eilian will ever be able to have a conversation without some tense words between them. Thranduil doesn't mince his words, and Eilian is highly sensitive to criticism. Eilian's tendencies make it believable that he would often prefer being "away from home" and on patrol than at home, where he is subject to criticism (real or imagined).
Author's reply
Eilian and Thranduil are just too different to get along easily, although I think as Eilian matures, they get better. It's sad really, because they do love one another.
Idhreniel · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
I wanna read the rest!!! I wanna know what happens!!!! Nice adventurous chapter! As always Eillian with his great scout abilities - and his historical of mischief - were very helpful. I wonder what the grownups will say about the boat. Oh, every line you write about Thranduil and Laurellin is just wonderful. They should always be together. Hugs!
Author's reply
LOL. I wrote about 1500 words today so the next chapter is started. Eilian was at his best, valiant and tender. And you're right about Thranduil and Laurellin. I'm enjoying them so much. They've turned out to have an interesting dynamic. Thanks, Idhreniel.
White Wolf · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
This was an exciting and harrowing chapter and very rich in detail. Despite all the danger and suspense, I had to laugh at Turgon and his "otter friends" and "sleeping puppy friends". That boy is a mess and adventurous bravado aside, he is as vulnerable as any elfling would be. It makes him endearing, even though you’d like to grab him and rattle his teeth most of the time. Eilian demonstrates yet again what he is willing to risk to save Legolas, but since he has a good heart, I know he would do it for any other child, as well. The words His sweet baby brother was not going to die a terrified death in a dark tunnel. gave me chills. I hope he won't need rescuing himself now. Watching Lorellin's desperation to find Legolas grow was hard to see, but at least it wasn't the grief of losing a child, and luckily we know it won't come to that. Terrific chapter, daw.
Author's reply
I had just read this advice about writing fiction that said you should stretch the tension, ie make it last by adding more details. My beta always says I hurry and I think that's what she means I need to do too. So I was practicing in this chapter. :-) Lorellin really makes me pause and take stock. I haven't written much about her before and she surprises me sometimes. Thank you, White Wolf.
Alison H · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
Dear, Daw! This was such a wonderful chapter that I didn't know if I would be able to stop once I started to praise your incredible use of words and imagery. Let me tell you that you should have no doubts about your skill in writing tense, action scenes.This whole chapter had my heart racing as much as the characters'! The next chapter should be even more nail-biting ;D Turgon made me laugh out loud with his little words of encouragement:"Swim, otter frinds" and "Come closer to the dock, sailor Annael" were just adorable and I wanted to give him a big hug for being brave.He was such a sweet little thing. Now, onto Eilian.Where do I start? This character has to be one of the most beloved OC's in the whole of LOTR fan fiction.He is almost real in the way you portray him--and a half-naked Eilian does wonders for *my* inner fan girl,too! I love his thoughts here:'His sweet baby brother was not going to die a terrified death in a dark tunnel'.Ah, gorgeous, heroic Eilian! Eilain is so tender when he reaches the elflings and his "Back up just a little, sweetlings" was adorable, just the right thing to say to reassure the little ones.I laughed at the image of the three elflings all wrapped around him as they shuffled backwards. Now Eilian must go and get help and his last look at Legolas before slipping into the water again was heartbreaking.He must now trust that the river will not send him to his death before he can get the boat.I hope that Ithilden is nearby to aid his brothers. Lorellin is, of course, frantic now but I loved the way you had her tearing into the Great Hall to see her husband.A mother on a mission will not be stopped! The saddest thought in this chapter, of course, belonged to Eilian: 'The unbearable had not happened this time.At least not yet'.There will be a happy ending to Legolas' river adventure but the lives of all of Lorellin's loved ones will be changed forever much too soon.That was a very poignant line. Thank you for this story, Daw.You are an amazing author.I can't wait for the next chapter.Update soon. Ali.
Author's reply
Holy moly, Ali. Thank you. I love Turgon. My husband never reads my stories but he lets me tell him what Turgon is up to and laughs. Eilian is on the wild side, but he's also very loving. He's always doted on Legolas and the kids mostly amuse him. Except when fire is involved, of course. Lorellin is interesting to work with. She lives with all these males but is a strong person in her own right, I think. And yes, her loss is almost unbearable for them. Poor things.
Agape4Gondor · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
Wow, Daw! Another really exciting chapter. I have to laugh though - then I'll get back to my chapter comments. I saw your responses below about having difficulty writing actions scenes! As far as I'm concerned, you're one of the best - ALL of your tales have incredible action to them. I sit on the edge of my chair WAY too many times, reading them. Do not doubt yourself - you are VERY good! As for Turgon - I'm beginning to think someone should drug the child! He'll never live past 150! And Elian and him as friends would have proved disastrous. Elian was awesome! As usual! I really like his character. And dear Legolas is absolutely going to be the death of Thranduil and Lorellin. As for the glowworms - did you go to Waitomo Caves on the North Island? I was there myself a couple years ago... wild time! I let the group go ahead of me in the 'echo' chamber and sang 'Into the West' - it was an incredible experience!
Author's reply
That's exactly where I went! It was so beautiful. Underground stars indeed. Sadly, Turgon doesn't live past 40. I killed him off in the third story I ever wrote. If I'd been writing about him for longer, I'm not sure I could have done it. I love Eilian. :-) Thank you for the kind words about my action scenes.
sofia · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
I was right about Eilian saving the day! This chapter was really exciting, with the whole missing elflings and searches. Can't wait to read the next chapter!
Author's reply
Heroic Eilian is on the job. Isn't he gorgeous? I'm glad this seemed exciting. I've told some other people I never can tell if a chapter is exciting or not.
sofia · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 5: Into the Tunnel
I like the tunnel/cave bit. It would be very romantic place. Those three... I still think Eilian is going to save the day. How? I don't know, but I'm sure he'll (or rather, you) will find a way.
Author's reply
Eilian and I are working on it! I saw a tunnel with glowworms when I was in New Zealand last year. It really was beautiful.
vaske · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
Turgon's a such an irrepressible little guy, he can stay in character while nearly drowning! And the 'sleeping puppy friends ' line was sweet of him. I hope Eilian is able to swim back ok, and that the little ones stay put!
Author's reply
Turgon is so enthusiastic about life that you can't keep him down. I love the kid. I'm working on Eilian and the rescue.
Jay of Lasgalen · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
Excuse me while I have an Eilian fangirl moment here. **drool** OK, now on to the review. I absolutely adore heroic!Eilian here. He's wonderful - decisive, brave, sympathetic and encouraging. I think leaving the three elflings behind while he goes for help must have been even harder than going in after them in the first place. Their terror was so real - and yet Turgon shone here, encouraging his friends and still making plans. "Swim, otter friends!" :>) I had a horrible thought earlier - what if Turgon had been older, and Eilian's best friend? I can't imagine the mayhem they'd have caused together!! Oh, and while there wasn't enough of him, I liked decisive!Thranduil too. Jay
Author's reply
LOL. Eilian thanks you for the fangirling. I really debated with myself whether he would wait with the kids, but that just didn't seem in character. He had no way of knowing when (or even if) help would come. Though of course, you and I know decisive!Thranduil will be there as soon as he can because that's where Eilian gets his heroic qualities. :-) Turgon's an affectionate and imaginative little guy. He causes trouble but he's not mean. Turgon don't bear thinking about together. Author Reply: Allow me to amend: Turgon and Eilian don't bear thinking about together. When I get excited, I leave words out. :-)
Alisha B · 1 April 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
"We will be sleeping puppy friends and stay all in a heap." Awwwww! That is the sweetest line I have ever read! I love all those things that Turgon says. It is always perfect for each situation. Oh, and I am 100% in love with Eilian... Always have been. His interactions with Legolas are wonderful and remind me of my relationship with my sister when she was little. Which doesn't really have much to do with me loving him, but still. *g* Good work, as always!
Author's reply
Turgon was really cute as a kid because he unselfconsciously said whatever his active imagination had spun out for him. I can see why Legolas and Annael wanted to play with him. Until bad stuff happens of course. That's not so much fun. Eilian is a loving person in general, I think. If he once decides he loves you, he never lets go. That's why he winds up with Celuwen, whom he's known since he was Legolas's size. No one else ever had a chance.
Socket · 31 March 2007 · Chapter 6: The River
Turgon was just great in this chapter -- his insistence on role-playing even under the most horrendous of circumstances was simultaneously entertaining and terrifying. LOL. Eilian's sympathy with the three elflings is admirable, but now he's in the position his parents were in when he was an elfling -- not that it'll make him any less daring! Great chapter, Daw, you're a very talented action writer. I can vividly imagine Legolas, Annael, and Turgon caught up in the raging river.
Author's reply
I'm not sure Turgon always computes the odds against him very well. His imagination just runs full speed all the time. You're making me feel good about the action writing and also about being able to see the scene. Those things are both stuff I've had to practice. I read it in other writers and it just seems so natural but it's a struggle. Thanks, Socket.