Aislynn Crowdaughter
· 9 January 2004
· Chapter 8: Interlude before Dawn
Hi! This is a great story, and I am following it breathlessly. And now, Radgasts relevation - OUCH! A poison to create Orcs! Thank you that you have Legolas rescued from it at last (I hope you will not kill him off, at least!).
I am very curious how this will develop, and I can't wait to see Thranduil coming to Gondor. Somehow, I can not imagine all the fine Gondorian soldiers and people liking it, although Aragorn by now may think well otherwise. Please go on soo!
And I'd love to see this second door guard get the just reward for his racism and his rudeness to the supposed "beggar". Somehow I can not imagine Aragorn being very fond of having beggars and poor people sent of his door by rude guards...
The only thing I'd have to say in critique are the following two:
First, Aragorn appears too weak in this fic for a long time, IMHO. I mean, that guy is about eighty years and has lived most of them as a ranger, and suddenly he turns deaf and blind to the racistical and superstitious behaviour of his own subjects, his servants, the people of his city, even some of his guards, just because now he's king? A lifetime ob observation of his sourroundings and having a knack to hear what he is not supposed to (all valuable ranger skills) somehow suddenly lost just because of that crown? I have to say, Elessars ignorance of the treatment of Elves and his own wife in his kingdom is not entirely believable to me, even given Arwen truied to keep it from him. Besides: wouldn't he have brought some of his former rangers and made them oficcers? would not at least these have acted as his eyes and ears? This part had me troubled a long time. I think the king of Gondor would be sooner in what was going on between his people and the elves, and would not need Arwen to tell him, and he would act on it sooner than you have him here. But I like the way Aragorn is portrayed in the last few chapters of this one and "Roses".
Second, if this poison and it's way of working was known to the woodland-elves of Mirkwood, and Legolas carried poison all along to escape it should it be applied to him, why then did he not recognize it and used the poison? Why didn't his brother recognize what happened? I think this would need some explaining.
Otherwise, this and it's compagnion piece is a marvellous fic and I follow it breathlessly. Thank you!!!
Aislynn
Author's reply
Excellent. I like a reader who thinks and questions. To address your concerns:
Aragorn is 80 and has been a Ranger: Precisely, and he is dealing with elves who have lived for thousands of years. Arwen had been around forever before Aragorn was even born, let alone when she first met him. If not as old, Legolas and all the others are so far beyond Aragorn in age and experience, that 80 is like a child. Elves do not even become adults until they are 50. Do you really think that they could not have kept information from him if they wished? Arwen does not want him told and, rightly or wrongly, the elves are honoring her wishes. At one point, it is mentioned that Legolas wants to let Aragorn know but she attacks Legolas so much for that (off page) that he never says anything again. Arwen is having a lot of problems with her decision to marry Aragorn and become mortal. (1) She misses her father and all she has given up as an elf for Aragorn. At one point, she watches Rumil ride away "as far as her mortal eyes" can see. Not far for one who has been an elf and seen for leagues and leagues. (2) She is living in a place totally unfamiliar to her and does not know HOW to be a mortal or what normal is among humans. She is now also expected to be a Queen of humans, where before she has been the sheltered and probably spoiled daughter and granddaughter of great elven rulers. She has lived her entire sheltered life among elves in Lórien and Imladris. (3) She is in terrible pain over what she has done to Rúmil in marrying Aragorn when she still loved him and in now having come to love Aragorn (and Eldarion) while she still loves Rúmil. She loves both of them. (Rúmil has a similar problem. He wants to hate Aragorn and cannot.) Like it or not, the prior relationship with Rúmil and Arwen is a premise of the story.
The fact that Aragorn has been a Ranger, i.e., a soldier, would be absolutely no help to him in being king of two devastated kingdoms. Radagast and others stress that he is a "young king" and learning to govern. I am sure that he has been busy just dealing with the basic recovery needs of his countries. Another reason perhaps that the elves are trying not to trouble him? Plus, what happens to Legolas does not happen in Minas Tirith, but in Aglarond which is a distance from him. You cannot know everything personally and the young king does not yet have a structure in place to bring him the knowledge he needs. He is, however, learning and getting better. He has also has found out that Arwen and Rumil were lovers. He does not want this to end his marriage but it must have been a terrible blow to him. He loves Arwen enough and has enough strength to struggle to make a way for the two of them still. I love his strength in that.
And, no, I do not think he would have hired a bunch of Rangers to solve his problems. Even if he had, the area was too great for so few men to know everything. Also, except for their leaders, the Rangers were just excellent soldiers and not skilled at ruling countries.
Now, about the evil done to Legolas. Quick point: The poison he and his brother carry is NOT an antidote. It is a last desperate release if they have been taken by Sauron with no hope of escape. Chewing the herb kills them. I certainly did not want Legolas to die! The antidote is something Radagast has to make fresh. He even has to go a long way to get the ingredients fresh. Most medicines back then were efficacious for only a very short time period, often just hours. Next point: Legolas and his brother would not recognize what has happened as the same poison that Sauron used on the elves. As Radagast says, somehow Saruman has devised a way to deliver it through the skin in the powder that Legolas and the child were covered in during the explosion. Legolas and his brother knew that Sauron had a liquid that could be forced down their throats and, if that happened, they knew it was better to die, and would have taken the poison for its release. Haldir and all of them thought that Legolas had been hurt in the explosion until the wounds would not heal. Then they had absolutely no idea what they were up against and were desperately trying to figure out a cure. Hope all this helps and that you are not asleep reading it!
And yes: Dalthor that nasty guard is goint to get his! I hate him.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
(who should arrive in the next chapter!)
JS
· 8 January 2004
· Chapter 8: Interlude before Dawn
These stories are so amazing! I simly adore your portrayal of the elves. Beautiful. I eagerly await each new chapter. Thanks so much for sharing them. Also, Gilúviel has quickly become on of my fav OCs. Have you written any other stories that have him as an important character or go more into his history?
Author's reply
Thank you. I too am very fond of Giluviel.
He made his debut in my story "The Revenge of the Wood-Elf" and a lot of his history, but not all, is there. He and Legolas are heavily featured in that story as are many of the elves. It is a story that is part comedy and part tragedy and, I am afraid to say Giluviel has some very bad times in it. He was intended to be a one-time only character, but I liked him so much that he and his wife will be recurring in my fiction. I will have to alter the history of Wood-Elf slightly to adjust for their continuing, but the basic facts are there. If you read it, please let me know what you think. Have patience that he will appear and have a big part to play!
I am planning a new story where he will also appear.
Thanks for your kind review!
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
AM
· 8 January 2004
· Chapter 8: Interlude before Dawn
Doesn't this belong with "Roses ... "?
I love 'em both, but am perplexed as how you could meld them.
Author's reply
It was getting very confusing, wasn't it? Well, I have merged both stories into one now. We will continue only at the "Roses of Iluvatar" story. Please see the new chapter there in which Thranduil finally arrives at Minas Tirith.
I hope the new plan of continuance will be helpful.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
The Karenator
· 8 January 2004
· Chapter 8: Interlude before Dawn
My Dear Scribe,
How fell this madady that befell our prince! Truly, the Valar and Eru, himself, did look with kind favor on our kind when the wizard was brought to the prince's aid.
Elessar has much on his mind and much to sort out as he struggles to understand the lingering evil that has brought this doom upon men and elves alike. Far too soon, it seems, men thought they now lived in peace. Such a horror to find that evil still walks and it is yet unknown as to where it abides.
Oh, how I rejoice at the news of Lalaith. As Tingalen would say in the common tongue, "You go, girl!" An elf witch after mine own heart, she is. I await more news of this strong and fearsome enemy of evil. May her wrath and power only increase in her desire to protect her own...and all without the aid of a ring of power. It is true; she is truly great among Elvenkind. No more should our kindred be forced to carry the object of their own death in order to preserve their fea.
As we await more news from Gondor, my household shall be solemnly on watch. Daily, we will send forth our gratitude to the Creator for those who have seen our beloved prince through this terrible time. Until we hear from you again....
The Karenator
Author's reply
Yes, Lalaith and her "controlled wind" have arrived. I almost choked on my cookie when I read your review, wicked one! I shall pass along your comments to my queen and advise you to be careful about entering dark alleys for the next day or so.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
bryn
· 6 January 2004
· Chapter 3: Elessar the King
Fantastic lines concerning Aragorn. They're short and stabbing. Oh Haldir, why must you be so cold? *sigh* A true Elven captain, that one. Would Thranduil really demand Eldarion? My heart goes out to Aragorn as well--he's been thrust into a situation he has no control over whatsoever. Given his nature, it's got to hurt even more.
Author's reply
Thank you. Those lines were difficult for me to write and you are the first person to comment favorably on them. I think a lot of people are just seeing Haldir as being "mean" to Aragorn. I see him as very conflicted about what he feels he must do. Haldir likes Aragorn, but his duty is to his brothers, Legolas and the other elves first.
I assume you realize that this story flip flops between "Jewels of his Existence" and "Roses of Iluvatar". They usually stand alone fairly well but there are times when you may be confused if you are not reading both. "The Lion of Lorien" chapter in "Roses" actually preceded this one.
This was an experiment that has been interesting, but I think I will eventually rewrite the whole thing as one combined story. That is, if I survive! Some folks weren't too happy with what I did to Arwen and Aragorn! Heck, I find it interesting, so I shall continue!
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
(and fugitive from the Wrath of Imladris)
bryn
· 6 January 2004
· Chapter 1: Of Elves and Dwarves
Orophins Dottir, I'm not even three paragraphs into the first chapter and I can't stop snickering. First, because the opening line: "Somehow, and never did he figure out how, Gimli had found himself in charge of Legolas’ baths." took me by absolute surprise. The kind that leaves me blinking for a few seconds and then dissolving into undignified snorts. Secondly, I now have visions of Gimli attempting to comfort Legolas by "elvish" means... and crooning Dwarves--ESPECIALLY Gimli--are a thing no person should envision. ;) Oh, you've done a great job winding down to the end of the chapter. It ends on a beautifully delicate note.
Author's reply
*bows low* It means a lot to me to have you review my stories. 'Tis a burden you may wish to throw back, but you ARE the person responsible for my starting to write these stories!
I love Gimli. I always had the idea that elves in the aggregate would make him very uncomfortable. He may be comfortable with HIS elf, but collectively? *dwarven shudder* I thought he would make an awkward attempt to comfort Legolas at this point in the story. I could not make him go all "kissy face" but I thought the battlescarred hand on the head might be in keeping. Glad you approved.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Lindorien
· 2 January 2004
· Chapter 1: Of Elves and Dwarves
This is really, really beautiful. What a lovely portrayal of a friendship! I can see where people might think this slashy, but not me, coming as I do from a large family where bedsharing was the norm, rather than the exception. When people visited, they shared beds -- and complained about the other snoring! beautifully written.
Author's reply
Thank you. I was a little nervous posting this, but should have known that the intelligent readers here would see it for what it was meant, a story of friendship.
Your review is appreciated!
Nilmandra
· 25 December 2003
· Chapter 7: Old Bartleman's Inn
I like your look at Thranduil - he would be a mighty force to stand against. How interesting to think that Saruman could be behind this. I do trust the leaders here - Aragorn, Faramir, the Lorien elves - to sort this out and keep Saruman from forcing a wedge between elves and men.
The Karenator
· 25 December 2003
· Chapter 7: Old Bartleman's Inn
My Lady Scribe,
How my heart doth fear for our fair Rumil as he travels the path of men. Some comfort do I find in the knowledge that Strider, Faramir and Gimli are there to receive him. For they will stand at the side of our warden should evil come to try him. Such fear doth I sense in poor Gimli and my eyes fill with tears as he bears the sorrowful news brought to him by this Elven messenger. Though Gimli is a strange creature to the Elves, he is a true and just friend to Legolas.
The king rides ever nearer to the city of men and with him the uncertainity of his warth. Our friends will be well served to find a path and solution to this foul malady that has befallen the king's son. For Thranduil will brook no injury to his child and his retribution will be swift and final.
Such foul news hath been discoveredd in the cave and within the walls of the travern. The worst of fears have been confirmed and evil doth yet walk in the shadows of Arda. Our friends must be swift in giving report to the king and to dealing with this wandering remains of what was once great in the cause of the Valar, but has now fallen into a darkness so still and cold that not even a ray of goodness lives in his heart.
My Lady, I cannot assuage this fear that doth grip my very being, but I shall entrust this crisis to the warriors of experience. I will stand watch over my dear Legolas and offer my assistance in calming the distraught adar should he arrive before Aragorn and his party. It is my most heartfelt prayer that he will heed any words you have to offer him for much store doth he put in your wisdom.
Until we meet again, my Lady.
The Karenator
daw the minstrel
· 24 December 2003
· Chapter 7: Old Bartleman's Inn
Oh, excellent. This meeting was fun to read about. I liked Rumil's thoughts about how unpleasant buildings were compared to trees, especially when the buildings were full of men. And I liked the descriptions of fierce!Thranduil. Rumil's thoughts to himself in general were particularly well done.
Jay of Lasgalen
· 24 December 2003
· Chapter 7: Old Bartleman's Inn
Ha! I *knew* it was Saruman! But I still don't know what he's done to Legolas. Thank goodness that Aragorn and Rumil are finally talking and uniting to prevent the war. I hate the thought that Legolas, Ithilien and Imladris would have to fight against Aragorn if it came to that.
Jay
The Karenator
· 20 December 2003
· Chapter 6: The Shadow Rider
My Lady Scribe,
How my heart doth fairly burst with joy at the sight of Fuin leaping to his elf's side. So alone has he been as he dwelt in the unfamiliar stables of the mortals. His brave heart is sure as he will carry our most dear Rumil on his quest. May the Valar watch over these love ones. Young Eldarion has been charged in the care of those he loves and though young he may be, he is brave and willing to accept the duty as his own. Such pride do I feel for this young one.
I anxiously await news from Rumil's journey. Shall we soon be blessed with the presence of one of the Istari? For I doth sit upon pins and needles in hopes that some aid may soon come to our Legolas. Pray, my Lady, will good news arrive soon? Until the time that we hear again from your quill, I will keep my vigil....Your faithful servant, The Karenator
Author's reply
Ah, lady, the trials of our prince are not yet at an end. However, his adar draws closer to his side. The rest of the world may tremble, but the prince needs Ada's strength I think. Also his ability to kick butt. Yes, I shall feel feel better with the King of Mirkwood at hand. Attention shall be paid then to all that is amiss in Gondor!
Hope all is well after the Solstice festivities. A carrier pigeon shall be sent forth soon.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
daw the minstrel
· 19 December 2003
· Chapter 6: The Shadow Rider
You are really capturing me with this story, OD. I have never been able to understand the Haldir frenzy and suddenly I find I'm taken by Rumil. And I love your Eldarion too. He seems like such a natural figure, like a real little boy who is brave and interested in the behavior of the adults around him, even when he doesn't fully understand it.
Author's reply
Thank you! High praise indeed. When the holiday is over, I plan on spending more time with your stories. It is too insane right now!
I have spent something like 30+ years being fond of the Brothers Galadhrim. At my very first encounter with the books, they fascinated me for some reason. Probably because so little was known about them. There was something about them sitting up in that talan with their arms around their knees talking to one another, warning of "yrch" and then drawing the fell creatures away through the woods to keep the hobbits safe! Nice boys.
Eldarion is new to me. I see him as an interface in the Arwen-Rumil-Aragorn triangle. All of them love him. He is turning out to be a nice little kid, isn't he?
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
The Karenator
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 5: Courage Found
Oh my Lady, How filled with regret I am that I have long been sundered from your writings. Far behind I have become and did seek your newest chapter out first as I have neglected you far too long. My heart is heavy by the fair prince's continued plight. Ai! But sweet Eldarion is surely made of stern and brave stuff to face his fears of losing his beloved friend and doth steel himself against his worries. Though the prince is unsure of the wisdom of allowing the young one to see such anguish as that he suffers, he is kind and gentle in welcoming his friend. And the young Eldarion bravely offers his strength to his gravely injured friend. Oh my Lady, how many more tears must we shed before some cure is found for our fair friend? Much worry has beset us all on his behalf. Pray, will a cure be forthcoming soon? Our dear, Haldir, has done all he might and suffers from the knowledge that he is well without any help to offer. All grieve for the pain inflicted on our loved prince. I will now take myself to quietly keep vigil, but do hold hope within my breast that good tidings will soon be born to the sick chambers of the prince. I will await your words...Your servant, The Karenator
Author's reply
*The Dottir does her happy dance!* She is back is my muse! Yes she is, Precious! I have truly missed you, but do full well understand that preparing for the Winter Solstice and the other events of your hectic life have thrown you a curve. Plus, all those houseguests! By the way, have you lost Glorfy or has Nilmandra the Web Elf abducted him again? Keep your eye on that maiden when it comes to Glorfindel.
Thank you for the review! I feel better. However, I fear that fair Giluviel may have laid it on a little too thick. We await patiently and thou must do all in its season and as time allows. I have been writing a lot these days. We would not want to give up the electronic carrier pigeon messages that brighten our day!
You will be happy to know that I have again sent Giluviel to the market for Ben & Jerry's. He hath also a few tips from me on strategy. The elf is too tense of late. He needs comfort. All will be well tonight. Tell Legolas to head for the coldest river he can find. Wants to hear the details, indeed!
Humble Scribe to His Majesty Thranduil
P.S. Thank you for all the great names! Am pondering them in my heart. How are you at elflings? The boy shall of course be after Legolas but I sense perhaps twins. Tingalen has truly been cranky.
Jay of Lasgalen
· 7 December 2003
· Chapter 5: Courage Found
This was another great chapter - I loved Eldarion's determination to see Legolas and help him. And the description of Legolas's pain was unbearable - the poor elf!
I was rereading earlier chapters - just what was in that disused passage that exploded? If it was one of Saruman's 'toys' there could be all manner of nasty things that could infect wounds and prevent them from healing.
I have just one request - please don't kill Legolas!
Jay
Author's reply
Saruman. Think you that he could be hurting Legolas? I will say not.
I have real trouble with Legolas' pain. It sounds silly, but I really do. I hate that he is in pain like this. I will try not to kill him.
New chapter up.
daw the minstrel
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 5: Courage Found
There are so many good things about this chapter. I loved the warrior's prayer and the picture of Haldir walking with Rumil into his first battle and Rumil's knowledge that Eldarion had to deal with his own fear, although a friend could support him. I liked the way Legolas saw "the courage of Eldarion begin to flower." Just a great scene.
Author's reply
We are on the brink of despair here with Legolas. I do not think Haldir can do much more alone. Is there help in Arda?
Thank you for your review. I like the warrior prayer better than most things I have written. I am glad you noticed it.
Nilmandra
· 6 December 2003
· Chapter 5: Courage Found
I love your take on young Eldarion. He is very strong, as are his father and mother. You show his courage and strength well. But you must bring some relief and comfort to my poor elf!!!
Author's reply
Elf Boy has a little comfort, but it will not last long. I am not sure he will survive the next onslaught. Haldir is almost in despair. We well and truly need help.
Rumil rides for same.
Nilmandra
· 2 December 2003
· Chapter 4: Arwen the Queen
I like seeing the Legolas with his brother, and the love between them. I also like how you have kept the dignity of the elves, even in the face of hatred. I do not understand the hatred, however, but it seems as if this is part of what causes Legolas and the child not to heal.
Author's reply
Love and friendship are what drives my characters. They never act alone.
Legolas and Giluviel. Haldir and his brothers. Orophin and Elanor. Eldarion and Legolas. Gurth and his struggle with hatred. Arwen. Life is never simple.
daw the minstrel
· 2 December 2003
· Chapter 4: Arwen the Queen
I'm usually a little uncomfortable with AU stories and this is no exception, but I am caught by the very interesting story you tell. Apparently whatever is interfering with Legolas's healing is also interfering with the child healing. I hope Aragorn gets all this sorted out soon.
Author's reply
My take on AU is that only so many authors can write the "missing scenes" of the good professor. Retelling his stories can be wonderful, but. . .
If we are. indeed, to paint our own canvas from his palette, then we sometimes have to step beyond our comfort zone. Rumil and Arwen is a bit beyond mine, but it appeared. The one thing I know about these two elves is that they will not betray Aragorn. What came before him, they cannot change.
AM
· 25 November 2003
· Chapter 3: Elessar the King
Couldn't Haldir's anti Aragorn attitude be seen as elven prejudice? After all, if the man doesn't know what's going on (and he hasn't been King for long), how can he possibly rectify the situation(s)?
Loving the stories and others' more learned reviews.
Author's reply
It could, but I do not see it as such just yet. Haldir is alone against nameless terrors that are trying to destroy Legolas. He is fighting a desperate battle. He wants to trust Aragorn, but he cannot. Everything has become dark, and only his brothers, Gimli and Giluviel are certain. Perhaps the hobbits, but even there he is careful. He never speaks his mind to them.
Arwen is the saddest one to me. She divides herself from her husband and from Rumil. Rumil has been with her since childhood. and there is much between them that even Aragorn cannot know yet. Arwen is too afraid. Because she cannot face the mortality she has chosen, she is losing her immortal Rumil, and this will kill her even as losing Aragorn would. Poor, poor Arwen!
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
daw the minstrel
· 24 November 2003
· Chapter 3: Elessar the King
Now that's sobering. What an awful picture of Legolas's suffering. I was struck by Haldir's claim that Thranduil could demand Eldarion in payment if Legolas dies. I know it's consistent with medieval practice but it just seems so barbaric and foreign. I also liked the almost poetic way you present Arwen's hiding place and the anguish of Rumil.
So what's wrong with Legolas's wounds? What is happening?
Author's reply
This is a dark tale and we are smack up against barbarism. The elves of Ithilien have tried ignoring it out of love for Arwen and their own courtesy, which can be a curse to them as well as a blessing. I hope that Thranduil will not claim Eldarion, but it must be known that this is his option. What has befallen Legolas is beyond Gondor.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
The Karenator
· 24 November 2003
· Chapter 3: Elessar the King
Ah! Haldir is pretty ticked off. He doesn't even have anything nice to say to his old friend Estel. Interesting bit about Thranduil demanding restitution if Legolas dies...possible in the form of Eldarion. That could be chilling, too....yes, precious, it could. Haldir is studying up on fried turkey and has set the bird to marinate. He says he can do it. Legolas is armed and ready...we leave for our journey in moments. Have a Happy Thanksgiving, my lady. All your BLOND elves are well cared for. I look forward to reading more when I get home. Very good chapter. Karen
Author's reply
As I recall my history, the wergeld first started to substitute for the family being able to demand an atoning death for the loss of one of their own. They could take money instead, but I don't believe that they had to do so. Thranny has enough gold of his own,and we all know his temper.
Safe journey! Tell Legolas to watch well along the route, or he shall answer to me!
*tiptoes off to ignite the tapers to guide your path home*
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
daw the minstrel
· 23 November 2003
· Chapter 2: The Larks of the Morning
Frightening moment. I can understand that the elves don't want to give Aragorn pain, but surely he needs to know what is happening in his city? The evils that he's ignorant of are the ones that can really hurt, I think.
Legolas's luck certainly was bad here. Everything came together to create the worst possible circumstances.
Author's reply
I fear Aragorn must abide in darkness until he can pass the judgement of Haldir. Although he has not yet "trod the boards" in either story to any great extent, Haldir is definitely the Power Elf in these two tales. The Warrior-Healer begins to suspect that more than ignorance is at work in Gondor.
Thanks for the review!
The Karenator
· 22 November 2003
· Chapter 2: The Larks of the Morning
Wow! That was lovely! And finally, an explanation for the Fair One's injuries. Gimli is such a strong friend even though he finds Elves to be well...different. But he just shakes his head in amusement where the ignorant of men fear what they don't understand. This was such a plausible depliction and an all too true trait of some men...(I won't mention any names). Gimli...poor Gimli...he feels so guilty about Legolas's injuries. No wonder he refuses to leave the elf's side. The birds were a nice touch. I'm glad the feathered friends came down for a visit. Kinda like Snow White in the forest...as they break into song...or was she just yodeling then? Anyway....this was truly a beautifully written piece. I love these angsty little power moments. Excellent my dear lady and scribe....just excellent. Karen
Author's reply
*hauls back and slaps the Karenator silly for recalling Snow White yodeling; it hath been stuck in my mind now and is most annoying*
Keep your eye on that cave, Lady, there is more to it than a whacked-out Gondorian peasant. Ponder the source of the expolsion, Fair One. *tiptoes away after dropping a broad hint which the Dottir hopes will be as annoying as the yodels yet stuck in her head*
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Nilmandra
· 22 November 2003
· Chapter 2: The Larks of the Morning
Oh, my, so we have people scared of elves and thinking they harm children? How crazy is that? So poor Legolas has blast injuries and burns....but I hope he saved the children he flung himself over.
I hope that tale is spread far and wide that an elf sacrificed to save their children.......my poor elf. I do think someone needs to speak to the Gondorian cooks though. Arwen is queen and she is wise and fair - she should tell them. :D
Author's reply
The children for whom Legolas made his sacrifice still have a role to play. They will be "back-burner" for a few chapters I think, but they are important.
Arwen is having her own problems with everything that is happening. She is in that classic position of being between the two worlds of elves and men, and, in not wanting to hurt either, she is failing both of them. For all of his vaunted being "raised in Rivendell", Aragorn doesn't have the same ambivalence. He is clearly "of men". I have hope for Arwen though.
Ah, well, in the next chapter Rosie, bless her heart, will assume the role of "chef to the elves" but for a more important reason than they don't like "Beef a la Gondor"!
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
P.S.--Hope you and the Golden One suffered no ill effects from the eggnog!