LKK
· 21 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Excellent first chapter, daw. Thranduil's reactions to life in Imladris and the upcoming council (and its powerful members!) are very much in line with the character you've been presenting in your other stories.
I miss little Legolas, but I'm anxious to see your young, not quite an adult, Legolas.
Finally, I love the fact that you give real personalities to even the smaller characters -- for example, Pilin, who knows better than to gallop into a sword thrust, and Arwen, whose beauty and grace affects even very married elves. :-)
LKK
Strange Blaze
· 21 October 2003
· Chapter 2: Freedom
Legolas is a great uncle, that's wonderful to see! loved this little exchange:
“Ada?” Sinnarn had suddenly appeared at his elbow.
“Yes?”
“I was lonely in my bed last night. I want to sleep with you and Nana tonight.”
He looked at his son in dismay while Alfirin smothered her laugh in his neck. "
sooo cute! He's reminding me of the young princes already. Great to see how much he reminds Ithilden of a young Eilian...I bet he'll be just as big a handful as his uncle!
Another cute little touch was Annael's mom having to bend Legolas down to kiss his head...they sure grow fast don't they?
great chapter!
The Karenator
· 21 October 2003
· Chapter 2: Freedom
Daw,
What a good chapter. Ithilden is certainly his father's son. He handled the men with all the Thranduil-ish-ness he could muster. I was glad to see that the elves were willing to help the men and knowing the destructiveness of humans, I was also glad that it would be on the elves' terms. It was, however, kind of naughty of the men to try and take advantage of the king being gone. You worked that out quite well. I could only smile at Sinnarn's resemblance to his Uncle Eilian. Poor Ithilden and Alfirin. The coming of age ceremony was lovely. I liked the questions asked of Annael and the pledges he made. Rituals are good, IMO. I think we miss that in our society. I'm not so sure about the young and possessive Synia. I'm kind of beginning to think she's got more on her mind than Legolas does. Be wary, Master Elf..be very wary! Legolas also allowed her to distract him when he should not have. He missed the toasts. A mistake on his part...but part of her master plan? I can't wait to see what happens next. I don't think I need to tell you, again, that I love your style and creative stories..so I won't. I will say that I got teary eyed at the ceremony and can't wait for the next chapter. Thanks, Daw. Karen
tigerlily713
· 21 October 2003
· Chapter 2: Freedom
He must be joking-- work more important than writing? That is insane...no, sacrilegious! My boss just laughs at the fact that I am so happily involved in LoTR fanfiction. He trusts that I will get done what I am supposed to, and I do. I am rather obsessive compulsive and good at organizing my time.
As far as family goes, I am neither married nor a mother, but I think that when I am, my family will appreciate the happiness and relief I find in reading and writing. I sure wish my mother had something to take the edge off of raising us!
Anyway, another lovely chapter. I love the honesty that you give to Legolas's thoughts, even though they make him seem more normal and less perfect. The fact that he acknowledges his quasi-interest in this she-elf, and the way he disciplines himself accordingly, is what I think makes him so respectable.
Well done; I look forward to more! Lily
naneth
· 21 October 2003
· Chapter 2: Freedom
Aww, you made me cry! The coming of age ceremony was so sweet. Then you scared me to death with your comments to reviewers... "I love Annael and I am afraid I have plans for him in this story". That was as bad as an "evil cliffhanger"! Don't think you could dissapoint me with one of your stories-you surely haven't so far!!
We'll miss you until Saturday, be safe on your trip.
Lera
· 20 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Hey I had to read it again. I forgot to say, I can't wait to see what kind of parents Ithielien and Alfirin have turned out to be. Ciao.
Lamiel
· 20 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
What a wonderful beginning! I'm so intrigued by Thranduil's interactions at the Council--poor king, having to be diplomatic, and with three Ring-bearers in the room, too! And I loved his shudder at the thought of having Galadriel as a mother-in-law. Poor Elrond.
Marvelous note of Legolas learning to ride with tack, and yes he was showing off just a bit with the great horsemount, wasn't he? But it sure comes in handy when one needs to get up quickly without getting trampled by a whole regiment of horses. :)
Oh, this is great, just great. Cannot wait for more! Valar bless your incredibly creative imagination, and your energy!
Lamiel
Lera
· 19 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
I'm so happy! A new story! I hope there's not too long between posts. Seeing Thranduil in a place other than Mirkwood was interesting. I was wondering if he ever traveled or if he always sent one of his sons or some represenative. I which I had a bathtub like the one in his room. You can't even stretch out to full length in mine. Grump, grump. Anyway, so what are the bathtubs like in Mirkwood?
It's about time Legolas and his friends grew up. I'm curious about his relationship with Amdir now. I'm glad Maldor's still around. I know he's rough, but for whatever odd reason, I always liked him.("Did that hurt? It's just pain.")
I wonder, has Ithielden actually agreed to put Legolas in the Southern patrol? To say nothing of Thranduil. If he does end up serving there it'll be interesting to see how he serves under Eilien. Actually, I think Legolas will do fine, it's Eilien I'm worried about. I remember how he hated anyone being at all protective of him. We'll see how he does with his "brat" in danger.
I'm glad Annael is happy. His maiden seems sweet. I always thought Annael was a doll. Wonder where he's planning to serve? With that pretty girlfriend how far away from home is he gonna want to get?
Ah, well, we'll see. Don't make us wait too long, please...You've made me a huge fan of your stories. Don't ever stop writing.
Elemmire
· 19 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Wheee! Another story!
This made me chuckle:
Having tested the water, he unfastened his leggings, pulled them off over his lean hips, and then climbed into the tub and sank back with a groan of pleasure.
Trying to give Thranduil some fan-girls? ;)
Elemmire
Jay of Lasgalen
· 19 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
A new story! Great! I love this description of Thranduil: 'Away from his own woods, he felt less certain of his power to control events, and that made him very uneasy.' It sums him up perfectly. And I liked (of course) the description of Legolas' training, especially his dislike of the saddle.
Jay
Dot
· 19 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Ah yay! I’m so glad you have such a long list of stories you want to write – and Legolas’ coming of age is definitely an interesting one to choose. I’m totally engrossed already, anyway!
I particularly loved the part in Imladris here. Thranduil seems to be slightly uneasy away from his beloved home and it’s intriguing to see a figure that we usually see as so powerful feel somewhat out of his depth. I like the look at the varying emotions he experiences, the acknowledgement of the beauty of Elrond’s home, the hint of jealousy and regret that circumstances don’t allow such peace for him and his people, the feeling of guilt at being away from home and a sense of anger at himself more than anyone for having to seek help. It’s such an insight into his character and you’ve really allowed us to glimpse more of him simply by placing him in a different situation. I had to laugh when he decided to slip the dagger in his boot. And he should have worn flowers if that’s what he wanted to do!!
I really enjoyed Thranduil’s perspective at the dinner table, the way he gauges everyone. It was so sad when he thinks about the loss Elrond must feel and how thoughtful of him not to mention the orcs in front of Arwen.
LOL at Thranduil shuddering when he thinks of having Galadriel as a mother-in-law! Um, he does know she can probably read his thoughts, doesn’t he?!
I thought the way he considered Gandalf was very interesting. He seems to have a sharp eye for tactics and the fact that he trusts Gandalf and places a measure of hope in him nicely sets up future events.
So, Legolas is still training? I felt quite worn out after reading that! What a hard life these elves lead.... Poor Pilin – I love the picture you create of a deep bond between elves and their horses and the way that the saddle interferes with that. Plus Pilin seems to be every bit a show off as his master!
The description of the coming of age ceremony is fascinating – did you invent that? I can’t wait until it’s Legolas’ turn.
Synia, eh? Hmmn. I think I’ll wait and see where this goes. I like the way “She admires my mind,” was followed soon after by “I read,” he said defensively. “I just cannot imagine doing it all day.” And I’m still sniggering at Legolas imitating Thranduil to make them all shut up!
Annael seems happy – I always liked him! :)
JustMe
· 19 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
It was fun and interesting to see Thranduil in the "diplomat" mode. I can only imagine how grumpy he may get if he does not see any progress in the meetings. I don't imagine that there is much that will get him to miss the coming of age of his youngest son - I know that I wouldn't want to be in his line of fire if that happens.
So Annael and Legolas have finally reached the threshold of adulthood. So many things are about to change for them. It seems that they are both involved in "romances" - though at this point Annael's seems more serious than Legolas's. It will certainly be interesting to see how the "boys" handle all these new changes and responsibilities. I can hardly wait!
Arbelethiel
· 19 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Yay! A new story! I was a little afraid you wouldn't write one right away, so I'm very happy you couldn't help writing :)
Naked Thranduil! You know that drool is bad for keyboards, do you?
He would no more have gone about with no weapon at all than he would have gone about naked.
Well, *I* wouldn’t mind...
For a fleeting moment, he wondered what it would be like to be Elrond and have Galadriel as his mother-in-law. He shuddered.
Rotflol! But Elrond maybe didn’t mind. I wonder how much Celebrían resembles her mother ;)
The slender, dark haired maiden on the left rose and came forward to kiss Annael’s cheek. He kissed her forehead and then put his arm around her waist.
I didn’t expect that :) Is it serious between them? There’s no mention of Annael’s marital status in A Question of Duty as I recall. I look forward to seeing more of them. And who is this Synia? Is Legolas going to be another Eilian, flirting with maidens because it’s the only thing his duty allows him to do?
Thanks for another great story. I’m looking forward to the next chapter.
~Arbelethiel
Fadesintothewest
· 19 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Oh yes! I was so delighted to see that you have yet again penned another story. So we get to have a glimpse into Legolas' life during his coming of age, and his first patrols. This will be very interesting. I look forward to seeing how his character develops- he's gonna have to work hard at impressing us readers again. Ithilden and Eilian have truly stolen our hearts, but I think Legolas will easily claim it again.
Antigone_Q
· 19 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Hurray! Another story! I'm so glad! And the beginning looks very promising. Legolas coming of age ought to be interesting.
Thranduil's reaction to the council is great:"he felt as if he were neglecting his duty by coming to Elrond’s pleasant refuge to attend a council that he doubted would result in anything useful." Oh, snicker. Nothing useful - well, he'll soon see. It was nice to have some insight into Thranduil's character: he wants help with the Shadow creeping into Greenwood, but he doesn't want to have to heed any unwanted advice. He wants to follow protocol in Elrond's house, but he doesn't want to leave his weapons behind. I wonder what exactly has happened that makes him so very distrustful?
The politicking going on behind the scenes was very well done. I am sure the steward really was tearing his hair out getting the seating arrangement right. The bit about Galadriel being a bit of a challange as a mother-in-law was just soooo funny.
I see that Legolas has a new romantic interest. Hope this one fares a little better than the last one. The horse scenes were just great. Thank goodness you remembered the saddles for the poor horses - you have to wonder why some of Tolkien's Elf horses don't have a big bald patch from being ridden continuously without even a blanket. I'm sure Legolas will get used to riding that way very soon.
Do we get to look in at the coming-of-age ceremony? I hope so - I also wouldn't mind seeing the ceremony for a female elf. It occured to me that it might be quite different.
Brenda G.
· 19 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Okay, now that I've really thought about it, I'm crying. We are losing our elfling!
Brenda G.
· 18 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
A new story... A NEW STORY!!!! What a wonderful way to spend the last few minutes of Saturday night - reading a new story by you. I can tell I'm already going to love this one. Legolas coming of age - a new girlfriend - learning combat tactics on a horse outfitted with bridle and saddle. Oh, dear, it this gets any better (and I know it will), I think I may need my heart medicine! Can't want to see what all transpires at the White Council, and you have given me cause to brush up on my Tolkien about the meeting of the White Council. Also, I hope you reveal why Thranduil is adverse to Galadriel. Is it because of the ring of power that she wields? Is it because she descends from kinslayers? I know the Mirkwood monarch already has an ingrained prejudice against other elves that do not have to fight Orcs and other fell beasts day in and day out (like the elves of Imladris). Still, he wouldn't be the great, girm Woodland king we all know and love without the struggles that have made him so. Long live Thranduil!
I am breathless with anticipation for the next chapter. Please post again soon.
BG
The Karenator
· 18 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Daw,
What a pleasure to find a new story! Thranduil going to Imladris was quite a surprise. You gave us a great view of what his thoughts were. His ambivalence about Imladris is certainly understandable, but he always maintains his proper kingly composure. He guarded his words to Arwen in kindness for her feelings and shuddered at the thought of Galadriel as a mother in law. While these two scenes made me smile, for different reasons, it told us a geat deal about the elf king. I'm eager to find out what this council brings about. Now, my big question.....Thranduil is going to allow Legolas to be posted to the Southern Patrol?! Ithilden wouldn't let Eilian go until he had served 6 months in the Home Guard and then he, nor Thranduil, were happy about it. And Ithilden told Eilian that he was too young and inexperienced to be there in the first place when he sent him back for his immature reckless behavior. So these older, over-protective elves are going to let the youngest go there when things are progressively getting worse? Boy, I hope nothing goes wrong or there will be heads rolling and feathers flying. This should be interesting. I'm a bit sad that our littlest elfling is growing up and coming of age. I'm excited for him, but feel somewhat like any parent setting their child off into adulthood... proud and sad. And the Fair One has a new female friend. Well, let Miriwen eat her heart out! I loved the description of the coming of age ceremony. I look forward to hearing about both Annael's and Legolas's. A good beginning with a lot to look forward to. Karen
TolkienFan
· 18 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Hi Daw,
I'm glad to see you start another story! The first chapter looks like another great beginning. I love your characterizations -- even Legolas' horse has an interesting personality! Can't wait to see more!
Tapetum Lucidum
· 18 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
Yeah! A new one!
Great start! Thranduil in Imladris - that is very unusual. We rarely get to see him outside of the woodland realm. You are right, Thanduil is somewhat abrupt but given the condition of his forest pleasantries are not his first responsibility. The Elrond/Thranduil interaction was terse but seemed very much in character. I liked the King's assessment of his room. He has lived a cave to long. His snide remarks about making the servants work made me chuckle. I am glad that his sons are still foremost in his mind.
Ithiliden is certainly responsible. He has proven his abilities in the last few years - handling dwarves and hot tempered siblings. Asking for help would injur any leader's pride, it should be a normal feeling for the leader. I liked the picture of him sliding a dagger into his boot. The comparison of crowns was also very clever.
I imagine you were clutching your own head over those seating arrangements. Arwen does make an excellent hostess. She was very sweet. Thranduil noticing her smile was cute - no one is that married. He was very sensitive to pick up on her discomfort over her brothers. He handled that well. Shuddering over Galadriel as a mother-in-law. I was laughing out loud! Can you even imagine in laws who could read your mind and see the future. My mother is hard enough to deal with now...
Legolas performance on Pilin was very well described. I am torn between missing Turgon again and being relieved that he is not there to lead my favorite elf into trouble. I am glad we are going to get to know more of his friends as well. The vigil and hunting trip seem very ritualistic. I would think that tradition is very important among immortals. Legolas' enjoyment in the imitation of his father was great. I am looking forward to the coming of age events. I am sure you will portray them well, especially with a unique royal perspective - you are the master (no pressure).
Glad you are back again!
naneth
· 18 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
I'm so excited to see a new story! I wasn't expecting this until next week. What a wonderful surprise.
There's already so much to love about this story. Thranduil's reaction to the members of the council and life in Imladris; Legolas and friends coming of age; Thranduil's reaction to his "baby" coming of age (yikes!); and, oh, that hint of young romance.
Your stories are addictive...they always leave me wanting more, more, more...soon, soon, soon!
Nilmandra
· 18 October 2003
· Chapter 1: Currents of Change
I *love* Thranduil. His thoughts, how he perceives things - you are very much in his head and he comes across tremendously. It really stuck me that both he and Elrond recently lost their wives - both to orc attacks -which is a terrible piece of common ground.
Annael is so wonderful. I am so glad he seems to have it all going for him now - soon to be a warrior, soon to be an adult and apparently also in love :) I am looking forward to seeing Legolas also ready to be an adult.