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Time's Turnings by daw the minstrel	23 Review(s)
Cele	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
I enjoyed the chapter but this line was particularly poignant: "Eilian knew it was irrational, but there were times when he actually woke up in a sweat, alarmed over the simple fact that Legolas was serving with the relatively safe Eastern Border Patrol." If he was that upset over Legolas's first posting, I can only imagine his reaction when he found out little brother was going on a (seemingly) suicidal quest. I love Legolas and Eilian's relationship, but Eilian (as well as Ithilden and Thranduil) is so protective he must have been going crazy. I wonder what the rest of Legolas's friends and family thought. And what must they have thought when he came back only to announce he was moving to Ithilien? That and finding out he suffered from sea longing must have been hard. Author Reply: I've always thought of Legolas as particularly precious to his family and as particularly likely to arouse their protective instincts because he's the baby that Lorellin left behind when she died. They hovered over him both to try to replace her and to cling to her a little. The questions you're asking are good ones, and several people have suggested I might try to write about that time. I really absorbed in developing young Legolas into Legolas of the Fellowship, so I've not been willing, but not too long ago, someone said I should write an epilogue to "Question of Duty" in which I show what happened when Beliond returned home without Legolas, and I'm kind of intrigued by that idea.

Tapetum Lucidum	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
Eilian's flirtation with the queen was very cute. He handled her like a real diplomat. I don't think she will remember much in the morning. (My 'm' keeps sticking and that was hard to type!) Maltanaur drew Eilian's attention easily enough. I am glad he is not too involved in flirting. Your keepers do make good, portable, Adar's. Now Maltanaur is scolding poor Eilian. Beliond and Legolas little report to Eilian was a joy to read. Picturing the two of the exchanging glances and sticking up for one another was great! Eilian handled it like a true Captain. He scolded them but admitted the worth of their actions. Asking Maltanaur for advice at the end was a nice touch and showed his maturity. His continual wishes to protect his younger brother were very sweet as well. Bram was indeed channeling Thranduil. He should have been angry given the circumstances. Who wouldn't be skeptical in the face of that evidence. It was best not to allow the elves to go with the soldiers. It would have been too easy to plant more evidence or start a skirmish. Eilian's temper got a little carried away but he seemed to forgive his brother fairly quickly. I was glad Bram could see through the "Bad Guys" easily enough. Their initial story was pretty good but there was no way to back it up. I was LOL when they turned on each other and began to fight. It was very Smeagol/Deagol. Bram's comment about retiring to his wife had me smirking as well. Eilian deserved that little jab. The private conversations in the individual rooms were by far my favorite part. Eilian teasing Legolas about looking for a whore was very brotherly. The well aimed boot fit the mood as well. I enjoyed the keepers' little discussion on The Management and Manipulation of Thranduilions. There are certainly arguements for both approaches. It varies with the victims' age and experience. I hope Beliond begins to trust his charge a little more. Great job! Author Reply: Maltanaur is a married man, er elf, and he was probably really glad when Eilian married Celuwen and at least he didn't have that kind of stuff to worry about any more! I tried to picture Eilian's reactions to the little excursion to the spice shop, and it seemed to me he'd have a real mixed bag of them and it would be hard to know what would surface first. Or last either. He was captain, brother, and Thranduil's representative. And I thought it would be good for Legolas to see how Eilian and Maltanaur relate, scolding, request for advice, and all. After all, he doesn't exactly have many role models for how to deal with a keeper. And in the long run, Eilian's natural optimism and good humor settle him down. Nothing too bad happened so what the heck! I got to the end and realized I had a perfect opportunity to pair up the brothers and keepers and see what I got. Legolas tries to salvage his dignity and claim he knew what was going on with the woman all along but Eilian is having way too much fun! And the keepers have a nice little keeperly chat -- something they never get to do with anyone else. Glad you liked it, TL.

Dot	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
Another great chapter… I’m just loving this story! And resolutely ignoring the fact that it seems to be drawing to a close… I had to laugh at Eilian flirting with the queen and reassuring himself of his ability to stay within the bounds of elven morality while baby brother is out being propositioned by prostitutes and breaking into shops. You know, while Eilian is undoubtedly protective of Legolas, I think in general he tends to just be possessive of things that are important to him. He’s possessive of the loving elfling that Legolas was and just doesn’t seem to want to let him go, he’s possessive of Celuwen even when he’s trying to pretend he doesn’t need her anymore and he’s certainly possessive of his patrol: “He did not want Ithilden to get the idea that the patrol could function well without him.” LOL at that line, by the way! “Has it occurred to you that Bram might have asked her to flirt with you to see if she could learn anything to their advantage?” You mean that she might not have just found him irresistibly charming?! Apparently that never dawned on Eilian… It’s interesting that Legolas was immediately so suspicious of the spice merchant and determined to search his shop and Eilian’s reaction was “What, after all, did he expect to find in a spice shop?” Granted, Eilian only heard some vague information but I get the impression that he is less inclined to act on what Beliond thinks than if, say, Maltanaur suspected the merchant. I hadn’t thought about the fact that Eilian might get to know Beliond a little better too but it seems he gets a chance to see how good he is at detective work if nothing else! Eilian wears his captain hat very well when he decides to. It must be hard when he knows that Legolas is hurt by his reprimand. I thought he was quite right to remind them of the damage that could have been caused to relations between the two realms. However bad it would have been that Legolas and Beliond broke into someone’s property if they had been caught or were wrong about the merchant, it would be made worse by the fact that at the time Eilian was dining with the king, as though they were deliberately trying to deceive the men. “Legolas was clever as a lookout. I do not think the Men even suspect we were there.” Aaaw, that was nice of him! He must know how much Legolas wants Eilian’s approval. And the thing is, because it’s Beliond there can’t be any doubt that it’s true! I thought you did a great job with the scene where they tell Bram. Obviously I wanted him to believe the elves but I could completely see his point of view as well. He is quite like Thranduil in his reactions, which means that he’s fair as well as furious, but it still says a lot about Eilian that Bram is willing to believe him even in the face of such an accusation about his own people. I love the line ““I apologize for their overzealousness.” That’s one way of putting it, I suppose! At least it’s clear that Eilian didn’t exactly approve of what they did. “There are more letters where I found that one, hidden in a secret cache in Acild’s desk. And I think you will see that the hand in the letters matches that of Acild’s account book.” Clever Beliond! Not just a pretty face… “Stop being an idiot, Eilian.” LOL. Eilian probably wouldn’t have even noticed that remark if it hadn’t been for Legolas’ reaction. I definitely think it was good for Legolas to see a little tension between them, as well as the fact that they still work together and get along despite it. Hopefully he’ll file that away and be able to apply it to his relationship with Beliond some day soon. The funniest part of the whole chapter has to be when Acild told them that Legolas wanted to know “where he could find a whore.” Eilian’s reaction was so funny. Can you imagine what he must have thought??! And then trying to protest and remembering that he’d been flirting with the king’s wife for the duration of dinner… snigger I think I’ll join Eilian in not thinking about what will happen to the two men now. I’m still not entirely certain why they’d wanted to drive Bram and Thranduil apart, though. I’ll have to re-read, I think. I was delighted with the way you split them up for the night! And what a cute image of little Legolas climbing into Eilian’s bed! The Legolas/Eilian conversation was hilarious. Poor Legolas trying to defend himself and probably desperately hoping that no one ever learns how naïve he actually was – but he was such a gentleman to her that Adar would surely be proud!! It’s always lovely to see the ‘brother’ moments between any of Thranduil’s sons. Eilian is going to have to be very creative when reporting to Thranduil about this mission. Ithilden might be amused by the tale of prostitutes and burglary if he’s in the right mood but it might be something to keep from Thranduil for another couple of centuries yet… I loved the very open conversation between Maltanaur and Beliond too. Beliond seems to have figured out what Thranduil used to struggle with, that “Legolas nearly always does as he is told if he understands and accepts the reasons behind the action.” But he’s a warrior now and, as Maltanaur seems to know, it’s important that he can obey without question. I’m glad Beliond is beginning to acknowledge that his charge can do this too. Most of Beliond’s worries seem to stem from what might happen rather than anything Legolas has actually done but it will just take time for him to separate the two, although I imagine that particular fear will never go away if Maltanaur is anything to judge by. “Do you think that the Men have managed to keep that bed free of insects?” Ugh! What kind of missions used poor Beliond be sent on?? :-) Author Reply: Your analysis of Eilian as possessive is interesting. I hadn't thought of that, but you may be right. Maybe he fears loss? That wouldn't be surprising, under the circumstances. I always have to remind myself that my characters may not see as much of one another as I see of them. So I think that Eilian hasn't seen Beliond much, just as Legolas hasn't seen Maltanaur. And I suspect Eilian will have a little more respect for Beliond's skills than he had before. Although actually, he doesn't know that Beliond can pick locks, not unless Legolas tells him. It was only when I was having Eilian get all mad about Beliond and Legolas breaking into the shop that some of the possible consequences occurred to me. How about a hand cut off for theft? The possibilities are truly terrible. No wonder Eilian was appalled, even though he could see that what the two "thieves" got was good information. One of the things I wanted to happen in this story was for Legolas's and Beliond's relationship to develop a little, and the praise that Beliond gives Legolas is part of that, I think. Beliond has to have recognized Legolas's ability to function without him telling him what to do every step of the way, and Legolas appreciates the praise, especially since it's given in front of Eilian, as you say. Eilian has complete trust in Legolas, even in the face of evidence that he was out looking for a woman. I think that's a little piece of news that Adar has no need to know though. I've been thinking that Sauron used spies all through the Third Age. At least he seemed to in Bree. And Gandalf thinks that Smaug is under his control, meant to distract the elves and men of the north while Sauron attacks further south. So I thought that what might be going on here was someone under Sauron's influence trying to split up this alliance, maybe make them turn on one another, but at least make it harder for Thranduil to get weapons and harder for them to join together to fight a common enemy. That was my thinking anyway! Beliond and Maltanaur understand one another's problems in a way that no one else does, so I thought a little keeper talk would be interesting. And I think that while he was a spy, Beliond probably slept in a few of whatever ME's inhabitants called flop houses. I'm glad you're enjoying this, Dot. I hope all is well with you and yours.

Jay of Lasgalen	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
There were several parts to this chapter that were rather funny - Eilian's flirting; Maltanaur's disapproval - and Eilian's exchange on prostitutes with Legolas at the end: “Of course I recognize one. What kind of naïve child do you take me for?” I'm tempted to say 'yeah, right!' Despite the obvious danger of Beliond searching the shop and Legolas standing guard, I'd not thought about the political implications: the King's son being found in such a situation, bearing in mind the suspicions already present about elves; and the potential punishment. The cutting off of a hand comes to mind! Not good for an archer. Jay Author Reply: I have to admit that I often find myself laughing at my own stories. I'm hopeless, or so my son tells me. I thought about the hand things too. Imagining that made me shudder. What story is it that has that in it? The joint one by Treehugger and Dragon of the North, I think. I haven't seen a new chapter in that one for a while.

Alison H	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
This chapter was delicious, Daw! I loved every word and I always get a thrill when reading a new chapter to this story.This has been one of my favourite stories of yours. I was waiting for Eilian to find out about Legolas' encounter with the 'lady of the night' and it was a hoot when his jaw dropped at the mention of her! The fact that Eilian instantly dismissed any thoughts of Legolas being involved with a prostitute was oddly touching.I just love their relationship. Eilian was really jolted by Maltaneur's words of warning concerning his flirting with Bram's wife.It seems that even Eilian has still to learn a few things--he's lucky to have his keeper by his side. I liked the ending to this chapter with Eilian being a mother hen to Legolas and Beliond telling his colleague that Legolas did well. All in all a wondeful chapter.I can't wait for more! Ali. Author Reply: I'm glad you're enjoying it, Alison. I am feeling very good because several readers have told me recently that my writing seems to be improving, which I can't tell for myself, but which is amazingly gratifying. Eilian's love for his little brother is a nice constant in Legolas's life: even in the face of what looks like evidence to the contrary, Eilian doesn't believe that Legolas could have done anything an elf would think was dishonorable. And then he wants to look after little brother, tucking him in for the night. :-) Eilian is still rather young here himself -- around 140 or so. He has a lot to learn, especially about life outside Mirkwood. One or two more chapters, I think, depending on how long it takes me to tie up a bunch of threads.

Karri	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
Oi! Eilian and his fondness for flirting! It is amazing it did not get him into some serious trouble before he final settled down with icky Celuwen. Legolas was adorable in this chapter. It was definitely good for him to see Maltanaur questioning Eilian. Very entertaining. :-) Author Reply: Excuse me? icky Celuwen???? Ahem. All right. Everyone is entitled to her opinion, no matter how wrong she is! Legolas is learning some stuff, including that Beliond isn't the only one who can scold, and that in this case Maltanaur is right.

sofia	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
I liked reading this chapter. It was funny in some parts, like Eilian finding out the Legolas wanted to see the prostitute. Author Reply: Glad you liked it, Sofia. And Legolas was pretending he wanted to see the prostitute. He just wants you to be clear on that! He wants Eilian to be clear on that too, for that matter, and then he wants him to shut up.

The Karenator	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
What a cute chapter...well, except the part where the men are in 'big trouble'. That was a good 'tense'. Caught with their hand in the cookie jar. Eilian just cracked me up when Maltanaur asked him if he had considered that the queen was flirting with him to gain information. Males are males, aren't they? It never entered his mind that she was flirting for any reason other than he's so cute. And I imagine Bram was not so occupied that he didn't notice. It's that territorial male thing that transcends all races. Beliond had all his bases covered when the king began to ask questions. He made some good snap decisions during the heat of the hunt. Leaving the other letters was a smart move. His shady experiences are coming out into the light. Maltanaur was certainly amused. Eilian grinned. “I am surprised you would recognize a prostitute, little brother. What have you been doing while I have not been around to keep an eye on you?” Legolas drew himself up in an obvious effort at dignity. “Of course I recognize one. What kind of naïve child do you take me for?” Yeah, yeah, yeah... I believe Beliond would have answered that question differently. And I loved the banter between the brothers...once it was established that the conversation was between brothers. Maltanaur is a wise old owl. He said what he had to say to Beliond in a very diplomatic and relaxed way. Maybe Beliond will think about how he interacts with Legolas a little more. All in all, all the older Elves in Legolas life have been reluctant to allow him to grow up, but he's doing it despite the obstacles they place in his path. He's young, but he's learned his lessons well and is doing just fine. Very entertaining chapter, Daw. A nice mixture of tenseness and humor. I really enjoyed it. Karen Author Reply: Eilian has no sense at all where females are concerned. He needs to get married and be able to move his attention on to other things. Too bad it won't be for a while yet. Thranduil must just hold his head sometimes. Legolas's education is being extended on this trip, although I'm not sure Adar would approve of all that he's learning. I think it might be wise to keep the news of his baby and the lady of the evening away from Thranduil's tender ears. Maltanaur is really good for most of the people around him. In some ways, he reminds me of an older version of Legolas's friend, Annael. I think Annael will be a lot like this in another millennia or two. Legolas has been sheltered and he needs to move along now. He has a quest to prepare for.

meckinock	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
Bad Eilian! Bram surely could not take offense. LOL. Eilian the Master Diplomat. Flirting with the King's wife under the King's nose, drinking too much, talking too much, did you leave anything out? He's lucky Maltanaur didn't drag him out of there by the ear. I have to hand it to him for having the guts to tell an already suspicious Bram his warriors had broken into a private citizen's shop, though. I'd have been tempted to get Legolas the heck out of Dodge first, just in case Bram didn't have a sense of humor. I loved Legolas's reaction to Maltanaur reading Eilian the riot act. See, it's not all wine and roses! And I loved it when Legolas's face went red at mention of the prostitute, and later the brotherly exchange was great - "Then shut up." Maltanaur's little talk with Beliond was nice. Hopefully the old coot will back off a little and let Legolas make a few mistakes of his own. I really like those two together, and I love Eilian and Legolas together. I will be really sorry to see this story end! Author Reply: Bad Eilian indeed. He's a little young yet. Celuwen needs to take him in hand and make him settle down and behave. And for her, he'll do it. :-) I was afraid this chapter would be boring for the reader because they would know what Beliond and Legolas had to tell, but then I got interested in Eilian's reactions. He's having a hard time seeing Legolas in any sort of danger -- almost as hard a time as Beliond has. Beliond does need to back off. He has to let Legolas grow up a little. I'm glad you like this, Meckinock. One more chapter or maybe two. I made a list of threads to be tied up and there are a few, but we're coming to the end.

Bodkin	Reviewed Chapter: 10 on 2/13/2005
So many things to love! The 'how to manage your prince' conversation. The 'how to embarrass your brother' chat. The 'listen to me, Eilian' scolding. The chat with Maltanaur will hopefully bear fruit in the Legolas / Beliond relationship. Especially since the night's events have proved what Maltanaur says to be true. If Beliond allows himself the entertainment of teaching Legolas some of his - less customary elven skills, their relationship should burgeon. It won't do any harm, either, for Legolas to realise that Eilian still gets an occasional ear-bashing from Maltanaur, but has learned to live with the fact that the keeper is usually right. (Ahh. The years of late adolescence / early adulthood - so careful of one's dignity, so afraid that one is not being taken seriously.) I hope the shoe to Eilian's head has not left a bruise. Bram and Mrs Bram might wonder what the two of them had been up to! The brothers Thranduilion ought to have flags, like taxis, that say BROTHER / CAPTAIN or BROTHER /TROOP COMMANDER, so they know which hat is being worn at any one moment. (I just reread Ithilden/Eilian at the end of Glorious Summer. Definitely not a brotherly moment.) Bram was quite receptive to the revelations - perhaps the evil Easterlings hadn't done quite such a good job as they had thought. Rumour is useful, but it does need a bit of fact to back it up - and there hadn't actually been anything to divide Dale and the Wood. Unless you count paying Dale's merchants a good deal of money to facilitate the Dwarf/Elf trade in weapons. I think we could do with a Field of the Cloth of Gold, where Thranduil and Bram pay a state visit to each other. It would give Sinnarn something to do, too, and keep his mind off his woes. (And Elven morals would avoid some of the health problems that are supposed to have plagued Henry VIII as a consequence.) A moment I look forward to in some future story - one of true equality between Ithilden and his brothers - well, Eilian, anyway - where they are husbands and fathers, and Ithilden is not clearly so much older and more experienced. And, come to that, Thranduil seeing Eilian in the same way he sees Ithilden. It'll take a good few centuries yet though. Author Reply: Legolas is learning a lot on this trip, including some stuff that Adar might object to! But one of the things I want both him and Beliond to learn is how to get along better so that Legolas can develop and not just be taken care of all his life. After all, he has a Quest to go on! It was hard to think of how Bram would react, but he's not a fool, and he probably hopes that his alliance with the elves holds good anyway. The closest I've come to showing Eilian (and even Legolas) being treated as adults by Thranduil and Ithilden is after the Battle of Five Armies, when Eilian looks after the troops while Ithilden is busy caring for a wounded Sinnarn. Legolas is the Home Guard lieutenant by that time, and he's home where his elders can see how competent he is (although he doesn't quite manage to keep the dwarves away from the wedding feast).

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