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| Immortal Friends by jenolas | 1 Review(s) |
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| Dot | Reviewed Chapter: 24 on 1/3/2004 |
| Ah, what an incredible way of writing around the events of the Council. I actually read this a couple of hours ago and it left me in tears so I had to go away and come back to it! I really like the interplay between Legolas and Elrond. “I know you better than you think, young Thranduilion, you are very much like your sire” LOL! Legolas should really just take that as a compliment and not think too much about it! Seriously, though, I like that Elrond seems to understand that Legolas has inherited his father’s fierce loyalty to his home and people but also clearly knows that it is all the qualities that his friend has instilled in his son that make him the perfect choice for the Fellowship. You summed up these qualities beautifully. I had never thought about the hobbits feeling comfortable with him before. “It is only fitting that Isildur’s heir attempt to undo the damage wrought by his forefather”. I thought that was really interesting. I mean, it makes perfect sense. I suppose it just held a note of blame that I was surprised at Elrond and Legolas for voicing. But…now that I think about it, that would be a feeling that many elves would share, particularly one such as Elrond who must feel utter dread at the thought of the horrors of the past repeating themselves, and one like Legolas who has seen the effect of the returning shadow on his home and probably grew up with tales of the failure of men. I am glad Elrond was able to impart such valuable advice to Legolas about his friendship with Aragorn. I suppose it’s probably one of the few things that his own father wouldn’t really be able to advise him on, but as Elrond says, he has had much experience in the area and can give him the guidance he needs. “We are kindred spirits, Legolas. One day I will lose him too.” That just struck me as so sad. It’s as though Elrond tries to live by his own advice but nevertheless cannot completely ignore the fact that he will one day suffer the loss of another loved one. Thranduil’s reaction to the news was perfect. As astute as always, he immediately realises the danger of the quest and unlikelihood of his son’s survival. It was amazing to watch the way Legolas gently but firmly reminds him that he is speaking as a father rather than a king. In fact, it must have taken a lot of effort from him to speak as a prince in the face of his father’s hurt and despair. ‘Go with the blessing of the King, and the love of your Adar,” said Thranduil as he buried his head into the silky golden tresses resting on his shoulder and wept.’ Aah, Jenolas, what a heartbreaking image. That’s where my tears started…to see the strong and proud king so unhappy. And then as if it wasn’t enough to see Thranduil’s heartache, Legolas goes and tells Tathar! I think I realised the root of Tathar’s anger right about the same moment Legoals did. I love the way he isn’t afraid to show Legolas the depth of his fear but as always remains a true friend and ultimately offers his support. I think he and Thranduil could help each other through this if they allow themselves. “He wants you to leave the darkness behind and take with you only the memory of the sounds of laughter and music as your people make merry under the stars.” I think I’m going to cry again! King Thranduil becomes Ada again and gives his son some happiness to cling to. Such a beautiful act when his heart was probably breaking. I love the understanding you have of the emotions of those involved here, and I think what I particularly love about this chapter is that you made me stop and think and helped me to see these events in a whole new way!:) Author Reply: After all their losses and Isildur's valiant defeat of Sauron, I imagine the Elves were less than pleased to see that all fall apart when he refused to destroy the Ring. Yes, it is Elrond rather than Thrnaduil who can speak with some authority on friendship between Elves and Men. Dot, I can not tell you how pleased I am with your last comment, for this is exactly what I try to do with events that have already been well written about... I try and find a different perspective and I see that at least in your eyesI have done so. Thank you jenolas | |