elliska
· 29 September 2004
· Chapter 7: Men in the Settlement
Daw, are you crazy? This cliff hanger is even worse than the last one! Could you possibly think of anything that might make this more tense? This chapter was so scary. Eilian must be one hell of a steady elf (which he certainly would be after hundreds of years in the Southern Patrol). Anyone else would be blubbering on the floor. And Celuwen and Isiwen are just wonders. I cannot imagine what plan Legolas could come up with to deal with this. Especially with the stupid settlers insisting on poking their noses in. I feel so sorry for him. What a first command. This is so great. Post quickly! PLeeeease!
Author's reply
I tried to make it tense! I don't get too many chances to do this kind of thing, and I don't like torture, so I had to go with terror. Eilian is concentrating very hard on getting his wife and her family out of here alive. He's a clever fighter though, and he's good at reading people, so I thought he'd be able to see the Men's weaknesses etc.
Legolas is going to get a chance to show his leadership, his quality, if you will. :-)
The Karenator
· 28 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Well, things are intensifying.
Legolas is handling himself well. His patrol is making progress hunting the men. I think we're going to have to watch Riolith. Not only is he struggling with the shadow, but he's a devoted friend to the much more cautious new captain. I see a set up for some problems with this fellow. Would you like me to explain to him about how the shadow worms its way into your deepest, darkest fears and generally gets on your last nerve? I'll be like Lucy in Peanuts and set up my psychoanalysis stand for 5 cents per session...at my newly located branch stand in the southern most parts of the forest. 'Branch stand'...sounds like it's in a tree, doesn't it?
Legolas's reply to Gelmir about 'doing something about Sorion' was *very* good. Quite the little diplomat...and officer.
Have I mentioned in the last thirty minutes or so how much I like Maltanaur? He's got Eilian pegged. I loved how he knew what Eilian was feeling about Celuwen and just gently nudged him on. A very nice touch to their relationship. Things almost broke down when Celuwen asked Eilian if he had come to check on her. Telling the truth is always best...especially when you have a bond that sort of makes little white lies hard to conceal.
Eilian's little early warning system is rarely wrong, and I see that this time is no exception. You have really left us hanging! But I note one important absence in the cabin...and he is more than armed and dangerous when 'his cub' is threatened.
I can't wait to see what happens. Wonderful chapter, daw.
Karen
Author's reply
Legolas *is* handling himself well. I'm very proud of him. I am already using your concept of the shadow's effects (thank you very much), and Riolith is at least conceding that Legolas is doing OK. I suspect that some time on leave might set him right. And Gelmir doesn't seem disturbed. But it's fun to play with this small community whose members must get on one another's nerves sometimes.
I think the fact the Eilian is truthful with Celuwen is what saved him. She sees his genuine worry, and as long as he doesn't interfere with her plans, she concedes his right to have it.
Maltanaur is great. Hm. I wonder where he is? ;-)
elliska
· 28 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Oh you monster! How dare you write a cliffhanger! You never do this to us! And such a cliffhanger! Well it makes me glad I lost electricity...all the longer I waited to read this and therefore all the less time I have to wait for the update! Great chapter. I love the way Legolas deals with Gelmir. Very good! I love your adult Legolas and I think you do a great job with him.
Of course the interaction between Sólith and Eilian is priceless in every bit. I liked most though how they both seemed to sense the need to hurry back to the settlement.
Poor Eilian. "I'm used to it." He sooo is not. He brings so much of it on himself but he simply is who he is. Celuwen will be good at helping smooth things between Thranduil and Eilian I bet. She might be able to give them both the same mediation Eilian's mother once provided.
Update soon. Please!
Author's reply
First, I have to say I'm sorry about your electricity and all the other stressful damage that the storms are doing. That's it, isn't it? Aren't you in hurricane-ville? Anyway, I'm sorry.
And then I have to say I'm not sorry about the cliffhanger at all! I hardly ever write them and I always forget how riled up people get. :-)
Legolas does a good job with Gelmir and that can't be easy. Gelmir has known him since he was an elfling and has heard Eilian call him 'brat' on a regular basis. This must all be very trick for Elves, who stay adults for a very long time and don't have that passing of the generations thing.
I do feel for Eilian. He needs to have an easier relation with Thranduil. I don't think it will ever be fully easy, but it could be better. And Celuwen will help!
I have a draft more or less of the next chapter, but I need to let it sit now and then send it to my beta tomorrow. I think I hurried through the last part of it.
caz - baz
· 28 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
ok here goes a flame...
...mental blank, oh dear... I've never really flamed anyone, well not intentionly anyway, usually it just comes out if i'm really peed off, so umm... yeah.
I hate you I can't believe you left it on a cliff hanger.
umm... yes that was my feeble attempt to flame you. Stop writing so well and I'll send you a proper flame.
caz - baz
ps: I hate cliff-hangers.
Author's reply
That was excellent for a first try! I'm working on the next chapter. I have about 2000 words done, so it's coming along.
daw
Susanlu
· 28 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
¡°I cannot help it. It appears to be a family curse.¡±
Alas, what an authentic joke! I like to see Legolas's self-mockery about his family background, for it has caused him enough disadvantages and he has the right to take some retrieve.
So the action scene is present? I strongly suspect that Eilian and Celuwen will get help from their baby brother (in-law) at some emergency moments. Perhaps because today is Mid-Autumn festival in my country, and the entire family is supposed to gather round to enjoy the moon and eat moon-cakes, ect. Though it's impossible that Thranduil and Ithilden will join them, I hope the three in the royal family can be together at least, and I would willingly donate my moon-cake to them ^o^
Author's reply
What a lovely idea! What's a moon cake like?
It's funny how Legolas's rank has made things harder for him, and yet I think you are right that it has. I suspect he was promoted partly because of who he is. He was born to be a leader, after all. He is also competent of course, but there were other competent people. So now he has to earn the respect of his warriors, which he is doing.
Yes, indeed. Baby brother is on the way!
French Pony
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Legolas handled Gelmir exceptionally well. It's so hard to stand up to a family friend like that. Legolas not only did it, he did it nicely, so as not to let Gelmir down. Gelmir gave him a friendly poke, and Legolas neither overreacted nor underreacted. Poor Gelmir must be feeling like a real fifth wheel here, and it'll probably be good for him and Legolas to start becoming real friends.
Celuwen's idea to sleep in the flet was a good one. With both Eilian and Sólith in the house, each with a claim on her affections, that'd just be way too much testosterone to have sloshing around that little cabin. And I'm sure Sólith has no desire to hear Ada's Little Girl going at it with her husband. To his credit, Eilian is at least trying to be diplomatic. I'm sure it's Celuwen's influence rubbing off on him.
She knows that he has conflicts with Thranduil, and now she can feel it through their bond. I think this will bring out her maternal instincts. She sounds like she'd like to smooth things over, not just the immediate "Eilian marrying rashly" problem, but the deeper conflict of personality. Maybe she might take Lorellin's place as the mediator between Eilian and Thranduil. They both like her, and more importantly, they both seem to have a lot of respect for her.
The alarm is interesting. I can see where it would provide a great alert that someone was nosing around the tree where the flet is. On the other hand, it probably chimes in the breeze and gives false alarms. And, while a flet by itself would be well hidden, a setup of ropes and crystals would give away that there is a flet in the tree. So there's both advantages and drawbacks. I bet it's pretty, though.
I also think it's a safe bet that the sword currently threatening Eilian's ribs probably does not belong to Sólith, though I'm sure Sólith isn't too put out to see it there.
Author's reply
Ooh. I think I like the idea of Legolas and Gelmir becoming friends. Legolas needs a friend here. It's hard for an officer and the king's son to have friends, but Gelmir has had practice with Eilian, so he knows the problems.
Celuwen was a little annoyed with both Eilian and Solith. She wants them to just act their age, for pity sake, and instead they act like dogs marking their territory. In the past when I wrote about her, I consciously tried to have her NOT mother Eilian, on the grounds that he needed to be treated as an adult and his father did not do that. So far as she was concerned, his choices were his own. But I do think she sees the pain he's in and wants to change things.
Several people have pointed out the problems that wind would make with that alarm system, and I did think that the flet would be well hidden on its own. Hm. I think elves are able to hear what's struck the chimes, be it wind, raccoon, or Man. How's that? :-)
It would be amusing if it were Solith poking Eilian with a sword. He could say "What's this? A Wood-elf warrior caught unaware?" LOL
Dot
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
LOL, you are so mean… ;-) Sorry this is a little late – I had to go to Limerick today to see a friend and am only just back.
Legolas seems to be doing well with his little patrol. These Men must have got quite far into the forest if they’re that close to Home Guard territory. At least Legolas and co. have picked up their trail. Although, if the tracks are that obvious they might want to watch out for a trap. I’m just dying to know who these Men are who would have the guts to mess around with Elves in their own forest!
Hmmn, Gelmir. I really do like him and I feel sorry for him being parted from Eilian and not being with his two best friends to share their happiness. But *sigh* he just shouldn’t have chanced his arm at taking advantage of Legolas like that… I think Legolas is inclined to realise a little too late into conversations that people he has always known are now under his leadership, but it’s a great pity that he also has to learn to now be wary of their motives, especially if they’re people he’s always trusted. At least he and Gelmir didn’t actually argue; Gelmir didn’t seem to be too bothered as long as he knows for definite where Legolas stands. That’s twice now that he’s defended Sórion. That has to earn him some respect by Riolith. It seems, though, that by being given the title of the lieutenant he is becoming, he is also more and more distanced from the others in the patrol. What a great lieutenant he is becoming, though! He’s really learning how to handle himself and others. Riolith seems a little too loyal to his friends – there could be trouble if he’s the type to hold onto a grudge. I imagine he’s the kind of person who’s probably grand most of the time but you wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of him...
I had to laugh when Eilian gets totally distracted by Celuwen’s presence nearby – how sweet!! I love Maltanaur. He has this gift for seeing right to the heart of the situation, especially if it involves Eilian being in trouble. He seems to be the only one who has realised that Celuwen might not be too thrilled at her husband’s arrival, no matter how convincing a story he conjures up.
You know, I really like Isiwen. She seems to want nothing more than her daughter’s happiness and I can totally feel her gratitude as she sees Celuwen so full of life after they had come so close to losing her to her grief.
“But why are you here?” Trust Sólith to ask the one question that Eilian didn’t want to be asked. And ask it repeatedly. I’m glad Eilian was honest with Celuwen. Lying would really have got him nowhere. I don’t blame Celuwen for being bothered by the fact that he’s basically checking up on her but at least she seems to accept that he believes his reasons are valid.
LOL at them trying to come up with sleeping arrangements. That was far too good an opportunity to torment Sólith for Eilian to pass up.
That alarm system is a nice little invention. I’m kind of picturing wind chimes, though - but they must be a bit different or they wouldn’t be much use on a windy night! Celuwen is actually being very patient with him. I mean, he’s annoyed her father and she knows he’ll have annoyed Thranduil and Ithilden. “But I hate to see you at odds with your adar! It pains you when he is angry with you, and do not try to tell me that it does not.” I think he’s really lucky to have someone who knows him so completely. I don’t think that even Legolas realises how much it hurts Eilian when Thranduil is angry with him; he just knows that he himself doesn’t like it when they’re at odds. Maltanaur probably does, of course, but he’s not going to make it all better with a little kiss…
Celuwen must have made very convincing Bambi eyes to get Sólith to ask Eilian along. Either that or she and Isiwen totally ganged up on him. What a fun outing it must have been. I had the tiniest moment where I could understand Sólith’s frustration at being reassured of their safety and then being asked to move yet again. But I quickly squashed that feeling.
“Then he turned, stepped into the cottage, and froze when someone shoved the point of a sword into his ribs.” What?? Why that cottage? Where are Celuwen and her mother? What just happened to Sólith? And more importantly, where the heck is Maltanaur?! Aw, c’mon, daw… You can’t do that to us… :-(
Author's reply
The tracks were obvious to Elves anyway. These Men are not used to Elves and probably think they're being very sneaky. They have no idea at all what they're getting into.
I think your assessment of the conversation between Legolas and Gelmir was right on. Gelmir probably would have liked it it Legolas backed him up, but he wasn't too upset when Legolas didn't and may even have gained some respect for him which will probably be useful then things start happening. Legolas is learning a lot here, but it does tend to distance him. Not that he's ever just been one of the guys, the king's son with his body guard by his side.
I had originally intended to have Celuwen be more angry at Eilian for showing up, but when I thought about it, I couldn't see why. He wasn't questioning her competency to do her job. He was just worried about her safety, genuinely worried. He would have left her alone to carry out Thanduil's mission. It wasn't that at all. So I had her understand that, especially since he was truthful with her. Her real concern was the damage he had done himself by coming without clearing it with Ithilden or Thranduil.
I did picture the alarm thing as being like wind chimes. I just didn't think far enough! Maybe they don't use them when it's windy? Maybe it doesn't get very windy in dense forest? Maybe their hearing is good enough that they can tell the difference between wind and intruders? Hm.
I think that Eilian is very good at hiding his hurt, but he's been damaged by his troubled relation with his father. I'm thinking of letting Celuwen help make that better.
The only thing I would point out about that particular cottage is that it's near the edge of the settlement. When Eilian and Maltanaur arrived, Eilian said it was the first one.
Maltanaur is dead in a ditch. Haha! Only fooling.
sofia
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
great chapter, its just that... I CAN"T BELIEVE YOU LEFT IT THERE!
-sofia
Author's reply
Sorry! LOL
Actually, I'm not sorry. It was fun. :-)
White Wolf
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Oops. Eilian is a lot closer to the danger than he realized. You're not normally a cliffie type-writer, but you sure left one here.
I loved the quiet moment Legolas spent under the tree. I've always tried to have times like that in my stories to show his connection to the nature he loves. I also like the respect his warriors are beginning to give him, not as their prince but as their leader.
Author's reply
Yes indeed. Eilian was right that danger was nearby. :-)
Legolas is slowly assuming his role as a leader. His warriors have been watching him and judging him and he's come out pretty well. So now they're ready to trust him.
esamen
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Oh, Wow! Eilian is vindicated in his feelings that something's amiss . . . but oh, at what a cost! And now he can flourish his warrior's skills and win his father-in-law's grudging approval -- oh, what a story! I love it! Now, is Legolas going to arrive on the scene too? I just can't wait! This is great!
There were so many wonderful moments in this chapter -- here are a few that I really admired:
***Legolas sat leaning against a tree that was humming with sleepy nighttime life and watched the stars emerge.*** I love this because I relish the connection with the woods that Thranduil and his sons have. Plus it's just such a wonderful moment, to visit the woods in the middle of my work day.
***Legolas blinked, suddenly uncomfortably reminded that Gelmir was no longer just his brother’s friend, one who had always teased Legolas almost as if he were his own younger brother. Gelmir was now a warrior in a patrol that Legolas was leading, and Legolas strongly suspected that at the moment, Gelmir was trying to take advantage of their long-term acquaintance.*** Great leadership insight. I wish that all bosses were so careful of manipulation and gossip in the workplace.
***He stared at her, with his breath quickening a little. “How could I not come?” he asked, his voice cracking a little. “I thought you were in danger.” *** Oh, the sweet pain of love . . . this is a really fresh view of Celuwen's and Eilian's love for each other. It seems to have intensified since they married. Nice work in showing the deepening of their relationship, especially in that mind-soul bond that the Elves have.
***Sólith nodded to Maltanaur, who regarded him from beneath half-lowered lids. Eilian had to suppress a grin. His keeper might be willing to surrender him for punishment to Ithilden and Thranduil, but he would defend him from anyone else with the ferocity of a mother bear protecting her cubs.**** You know, I think that your whole concept of the "keepers" has been absolutely brilliant. The keepers can watch, comment, appreciate and care for our heroes in a way that verbalizes and intensifies the readers' attention. It's a great way of heightening the best moments of the story . . . the heroic moments . . . hey, I like all the love and kisses, but for me, the heroic actions and hearts of our men (not to mention their beautifully muscled archers' arms and shoulders :-) ) are still the joy and center of the story.
I hope you don't mind me referring to Legolas et al as "our" heroes and "our" men . . . I have really internalized your world, haven't I?
On to the next adventure . . . now, my heart's wish is to see great things happen and especially for my gorgeous heroes to come in for some much-needed h/c. . . . happy typing!
Author's reply
Eilian has indeed been proven right, but I'm not sure he's happy about that at the moment. :-)
One of the things I think Legolas is doing here is learning to function well when he's under stress and near to shadow. I think he needs to be able to do that in order to serve the Fellowship well later, so I wanted to show him learning that. He's also learning to be a good second in command. He's loyal to Sorion (even when he doesn't necessarily agree with him) but still obviously supportive of his warriors. I think that will be useful too.
I'm having a good time exploring the idea of bonding a little. I think that Eilian and Celuwen are still frequently surprised by what it means, and so am I!
The keepers have turned out to be interesting characters too, much more so than I expected when I first created them. I think in Eilian's case Thranduil really chose wisely. I think that Maltanaur's affection and support have helped Eilian in more ways than Thranduil ever expected.
You can call these characters "ours" as much as you want! I'm glad you're so invested in them.
caz - baz
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
oh yeah! that's just plain evil. i can see you right now with Sauron going mwahhhhahahahah mwahahahahahahahha that'll get those really annoying readers who don't review to start flaming my ass. mwahahahahah mwahahahhaha.
yes. i do believe that was the most evilest you've ever done yet. I've got to get to Politics right now so i'll come back and flame you later.
caz baz
Author's reply
LOL. OK. I'll wait here.
I'm working on the next chapter today if I can, Caz-baz, so maybe you'll be put out of your misery soon.
Jebb
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
It was good to see the patrol giving Legolas the respect he deserves I hope he does not come to regret his decision to camp during the night
As for Eilian's reunion with Celuwen well it was lovely and Malantaur's amused tolerance and knowing comments made it so funny
But after a perfect night comes the morning and danger so just who holds the sword I have tried to convince myself that it could be Malantaur or Ithilden and Thranduil come to retrieve their wayward homeguard commander but Eilian's growing unease doesn't make that likely
I hope in that case that the cavalry will be coming to the rescue very soon in the shape of two keepers and a younger brother
Wonderful story telling and the tension fairly crackles
Author's reply
I've been trying to show Legolas gaining the respect of his patrol by little steps throughout this story. I think he would be someone who was very earnest about doing his best and was concerned about his warriors. He also has good instincts and training. So the patrol members need to notice that he has their good in mind and is capable. Then they can trust him. I hope he's at that point now.
I enjoy writing about Eilian and Celuwen, although she's a little tricky to figure out sometimes. And Maltanaur knows Eilian very well. Thranduil did a good thing when he chose Maltanaur to look out for his second son.
I'm glad you find this entertaining. I was afraid I was moving too slowly to set things up, but thing should proceed with a bang now.
Manderly
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
You left us there?! The only comfort that I have is the title of your chapter. I am hoping that whoever is poking the knife into Eilian is a settler, but that still won't stop me from holding my breath until your next post (so have pity on your poor readers and post soon!)
It was sweet reading about Eilian and Celuwen and their reaction to each other after being apart. Ah, newly weds! I hope Thranduil will be more understanding and spare Eilian of whatever harsh words he may have.
You know, I have this wicked desire to see Maltanaur taking on Solith, at least verbally. It would give me great satisfaction.
Author's reply
All the chapter titles in this story are taken from things people in the chapters say. So this chapter title is taken from Celuwen's demonstration of the string/crystal alarm system. But it could be a pun, of course.
I'm having fun speculating what it would be like to be bonded for Elves. I have to admit I'm kind of making it up as I go along, but it's interesting to play with.
You're making me laugh at the picture of Maltanaur telling Solith off.
mer
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
I want you to know that--yes, I can calmly wait for the next chapter................................................is it going to be posted soon???????
I like how the wives mothers embarrass Thranduil's sons! First Alfirin's wants to thoroughly check Ithildin to make sure he wasn't burned and now Celuwen's mother says that their Eilian is welcome to stay even though accommodations might be a little cramped. Very amusing.
Author's reply
LOL. Probably Thursday, judging by past events. I have to go to work, sad to say.
I think that Eilian is probably harder to embarrass than Ithilden is. He was too happy that Solith was mad at where he'd be sleeping to have time to be embarrassed. :-) Now Ithilden in that situation would have had trouble! LOL
Jay of Lasgalen
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Celuwen was surprisingly forgiving about Eilian coming to check up on her, however much she was pleased to see him. You managed to lull me into thinking that much of Eilian's tension was because he was forced to 'enjoy' Solith's company when snaring the rabbits, so the sword was a surprise!
Legolas is doing very well as lieutenant, I think, and even Riolith is accepting that now. I'm keen to see what happens when they track these men down.
Jay
Author's reply
I see Celuwen as self-possessed and maybe even a little remote in a way, something that would be enticing to Eilian. And that allows her to step back and say that what Eilian does is his business. Except that she doesn't like to see him hurt. Of course, over the years, she's had lots of practice watching him do stupid things.
Legolas *is* doing well. I'm proud him!
Bodkin
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
PS: Just love Maltanaur. And Eilian desperately needs what Maltanaur offers him. He would be a far less happy and balanced elf without his keeper.
Author's reply
That is so true. Maltanaur loves him but is pretty easy going. Thranduil chose well in the keepers he picked for his sons. Beliond would not have been good for Maltanaur.
Bodkin
· 27 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Well, at least Eilian seems to have been Proved Right by events, which should defuse the criticism from Ithilden and Thranduil, who should realise that they need to listen more to Eilian's sensitivity to danger - only now they will probably eat him for not taking a full patrol with him.
I'm glad Eilian seems fairly well able to cope with Solith's boundless disapproval. Still, after centuries of enduring his adar's displeasure, Solith must seem relatively harmless. After all, he cannot make Eilian suffer in his professional life, or make him kneel, or use emotional blackmail on him. And Isiwen is aware of how much he has done for Celuwen - maybe, in a few centuries, she will be able to make Solith acknowledge that Eilian is not all bad. (Though it will probably take the arrival of that wild daughter . . . a solemn little son would be nice, too. And by the way, Alfirin needs more elflings.)
And Celuwen was happy to see him, even though she was a little miffed - still too newly-wed to take his arrival as an insult to her independence - and she focused on the trouble it would cause her beloved. I like the hanging crystal early-warning system - though I feel that a windy night is likely to trigger it and have the wood-elves leaping up and down at imaginary dangers.
I hope Legolas is not too far away in his pursuit of these rogue men - and that he is subtle enough not to endanger the hostages. I like Gelmir - (we want more Gelmir!) - he seems quite relieved to be free of the Thranduil family curse of responsibility and leadership. I hope he makes it up with Riolith, though - I don't think this patrol needs inner tensions, there are going to be enough from the outside.
I think you need to take a few days off work now to get the next chapter out as quickly as possible - you cannot leave Eilian with a sword pointed at his belly for too long - he is too restless.
Author's reply
I'll be truthful and tell you that I haven't yet worked out the details of what will happen when Eilian goes home again. I figured I'd know what to do when I go there. :-)
Eilian is pretty untroubled by Solith except as he affects Celuwen. He's dealt with Thranduil and Ithilden, and compared to them Solith is a rank amateur in dishing out disapproval. I laughed about the children you're wishing onto Celuwen and Eilian. A solemn son would throw Eilian for a loop almost as much as a wild daughter, I think! And just what I need -- more OCs.
Good point about the crystals and the wind. Hm. I think maybe the elves are so subtle that they can tell the difference from the sound? Like you can tell if something has bumped into your wind chimes other than the wind? Maybe?
Legolas's patrol does have inner tensions, but I'll bet most small groups have some. When I was planning the Legolas part of this story, I asked myself how to show him developing as an officer? What would be going on? And I decided that this was a small community of people, under stress, close to shadow. They were elves, so they would be "good people," as Tolkien says, but it would be like a very tiny town or something, with all the normal small irritants. I like Gelmir too. He was hoping Legolas would side with him but wasn't put out when he didn't.
I hope the next chapter will be done by Thursday at the latest. :-)
Lera
· 26 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
You cannot, CANNOT do things like this! That was an absolutely horrible cliffie. I'm going to be tossing and turning all night because of you! I love how this story is going. I'm so happy you've returned to the year Legolas became an officer and Eilien became a husband. Such an interesting year. I apologize profusely for my utter lack of reviews of your last two stories. I have been reading. But I am now a freshman in college and seem to have very little time for reading stories and even less for reviewing them. I did enjoy the last two. However, I am really glad to have you return to grown up Legolas. He's my favorite.
Well, well, Solith, we'll see how much you appreciate Eilien's presence now. Solith is really such a jerk. I cannot stand him. He reminds me a lot of a teacher at my fencing school. We call him the safety nazi. Always thinks he's right, can dish it out, but can't take it, and bosses everyone around. I don't get in trouble with teachers, but I've gotten in trouble with him for "fooling around with my sword." Thankfully I only have to see him once a week, but now I have to read about his Elven equivalent in a story! Ah well. My boyfriend kicked Safety Nazi's butt in sabre last week, so I'll just hope it happens in the story as well.
I feel sorry for Celuwen, who's really caught in the middle here. Not only between her parents and Eilien, but between this wonderful way of life and her life at the palace. With Eilien.
This is really wonderful, and to be honest it's grabbing my attention in the "oh, my gosh I can't wait for the next chapter" in a way that little Legolas doesn't. So, I hope your life is going well, and will be religiously checking my email, and doing my best to review because wonderful authors like yourself deserve reveiws. God bless.
Author's reply
I'm so glad that someone likes grown-up Legolas best! I swear I was just lying in bed this morning thinking that I write little Legolas and adolescent Legolas better than adult Legolas, whom I find much harder to get a handle on. So your review came just in time.
So you think that Solith might appreciate Eilian more now since there appears to be people with swords in his house? I think you might be right, but you never know. Perhaps we'll just pretend that it's Safety Nazi holding the sword against Eilian and enjoy watching him get torn into itty bitty pieces, shall we?
That's a good description of Celuwen's position. There were reasons these two didn't get married for all those years even though they love one another.
That first year in college is a big change, I know. I hope all is going well for you.
Elemmire
· 26 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Ack! You can't leave us like this!
Cruel, cruel minstrel.
;),
Elemmíre
Author's reply
I'm sorry.
Actually I'm not. :-)
daw
Brenda G.
· 26 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
ARGH!!! How can you do this to us?!? Just leave us hanging like that with Eilian's sense of danger having materialized at last as a sword poked into his ribs? I believe you did that on purpose, Daw. Naughty, naughty, but very nicely contrived. Now, if I can just get my lungs to work again...
I cannot tell you how much I love your Celuwen. She's smart as a whip and no pushover even where beloved husbands are concerned. Being in love and married doesn't seem to keep Eilian from getting into any less trouble with his adar. I had a lump in my throat to match Eilian's when he confessed to Celuwen that: "I am used to it." No, Eilian, you aren't. We know that as well as Celuwen. How it must hurt to love someone you are seldom in good graces with. I can only imagine what Thranduil will say or do about this latest of Eilian's escapades.
I don't know who the intruders are in the home of Celuwen's parents, but I certainly hope they are not more of a handful than Eilian and his keeper can manage. And here's Legolas on the other side of Arda - no chance he can lend a hand from there!
OK, Daw, you've put us in this pickle, so just how do you purpose to get us out? In the meantime, I am turning blue because my lungs still won't work, so you'd best hurry with that solution!
Author's reply
Now, now. This story needed to be kicked into a little higher gear. :-)
I'm glad you like Celuwen. I find it very difficult to write women in Tolkien's world. His central characters are all men, so you have to make the women up more. I've been trying to make Celuwen very grown up and very self-possessed, so she sometimes seems a little standoffish. I think that elusive quality would appeal to Eilian. And while I have been trying to let her let Eilian make his own mistakes, I thought she would be dismayed by the hurt that his troubled relation with Thranduil causes him.
At nightfall, Legolas was at the extreme northwest corner of the Southern Patrol's territory, and this settlement is in the southwest part of the Home Guard's territory, near to the edge. So they're not so far apart.
Alice
· 26 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
You're a little bit sadistic sometimes, you know that? Yet another cliff hanger to torture your readers. Shame on you Daw, shame on you. I have no choice but to employ the puppy dog eyes on you as I plead for a speedy update to relieve our anxiety.
Legolas is certainly growing up. I loved that scene. Gelmir's fun. Legolas is all grown up and under the family curse of being a responsible leader. Where do the years go? (sigh) Our little elfling's all grown up. Yes, I am far too attached.
Wow, I'm impressed. I was expecting a big blow up from Celuwen. And for Solith to kill him with a look. Eilian really is lucky. Let's just hope he survives the realization of his worries.
I anxiously await the resolution of this cliff hanger.
Author's reply
I'm sorry, Alice! I thought this story was a little too slow though. I mean, I know there's action coming but it's taking forever to get to it. So a cliffhanger is good.
Legolas is doing very well. I'm proud of him. I have to say though that in a way he is harder to write about because I feel as if I have to treat him more reverently than I do my OCs because he's a canon character. So I am less likely to give him the kind of personality twists I feel free to give his brothers. But he is becoming a good officer and he will need those leadership qualities some day.
I was tempted to make Celuwen explode, but when I thought about it, I decided she was too mature (sigh). After all, he didn't stop her from doing what she needed to do. He was just worried and he was truthful with her. So I thought her biggest reaction would be worry about the trouble he had just gotten himself into. And she didn't even know about the trouble at the end!
Tapetum Lucidum
· 26 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Eeek! A Daw Cliffhanger! You use them so infrequently they always catch me by surprise.
Foolish men - there is no sneaking past a patrol of wood elves. I am enjoying Legolas mild discomfort and surprised reactions. This lieutenant thing has thrown him for an interesting loop. It would be hard to lead a troop of soldiers who all have more experience. At least it is a group that is open to his command. Gelmir did have a lot of fun with Tinar - a remember a certain song about the size of his weapon that was very amusing. He is abusing his friendship with Eilian. It is nice to see him support his friend and Captain but it is not his place to cricized Sorion either. I couldn't decide if Riolith was pleased or unhappy with Legolas' response. Is calling him Lieutenant respectful or insulting?
Apparently Maltanaur is very familiar with the Married Man Manual. He needs to get Eilian some Cliff Notes very quickly. Celuwen's initial greeting was very sweet. I was glad she could revel in his company for a little while before figuring out his plot. Your interaction between Eilian and Solith is alwyas a lot of fun! Solith is a worthy adversary. His quick assessment of the situation did not make Eilian's argument any easier. The whole bed thing had me cracking up! Any father would hate that.
The flet in the tree was very romantic. Much nicer than a cave. It seems the warrior can learn a few things from the settlers. Celuwen seems to have an excellent grasp of the relationship between Eilian and Thranduil. It is not an easy one.
No one can say no to a persuasive Celuwen. Poor Eilian and Solith were both miserable. Solith is a very resourceful elf. He seemed to sense the same danger that Eilian did at the same time. Ok, who is poking him with a sword? Is it a wary Maltanaur or did he find the bad men before his little brother? I don't think I can wait until Wed or Thurs to find out! Great job as usual.
Author's reply
This story has been flowing along a little too slowly. I needed some excitement!
I think that Gelmir's reaction is probably normal -- not necessarily commendable, but normal. In a group like this, changes in leadership have to be very unsettling, so everyone is jockeying for position and testing the waters. Gelmir was hoping Legolas would side with him, but when Legolas didn't, he accepted it philosophically and maybe even was glad to see that his lieutenant had a backbone and a mind of his own. That might be useful when you're hoping he's not about to get you killed. And I meant Riolith's calling Legolas by his title as a good thing. He's decided that Legolas might be ok in that role after all.
The first time my son brought his girlfriend home for the weekend (and he was 25 or so at the time, I hasten to add), it didn't bother me at all that they slept in the same bed, but we had moved since my son was a kid, so that bedroom had never been his childhood bedroom. If it had, I think I might have found it very weird. And Solith tends to be a might protective.
I'm hoping that Celuwen can help Eilian sort out his relationship with his father a little. Maybe she can give him some distance and some love that will help him.
meckinock
· 26 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Sólith shot Eilian a look of pure venom, and Eilian grinned gleefully back at him, sure that his father-in-law was picturing him and Celuwen lying more or less on top of one another in Celuwen’s virginal bed.
Oh, you are evil! And not only for that-- I was already composing the first line of my review, which was going to be, "Well, that went better than I expected," when I got to the last line. I can tell this is going to be a long week waiting to find out whose knife is in my favorite Elf's ribs! Gotta feel for the poor guy, though, if he came all this way to save the day and ends up being the one who has to get rescued, on top of being AWOL. Unless the next words he hears are, "What's this? An Elf caught off his guard?"
And he didn't even get his conjugal visit first...
Author's reply
LOL about the elf caught off his guard! But it's not Celuwen holding the sword. Although that would be kinky. :-)
I think Eilian conjugated plenty on the flet.
LOTRFaith
· 26 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
What! You can't do that to me! Is Celuwen gone? Has she been kidnapped? Are there men in the house? What is it!! You are killing me!
I see that Legolas is making some headway:-D I have to wonder if Gelmir's question was loaded though:-D I wonder if he wondered how Legolas would respond to a question such as that. I imagine from Gelmir's reaction that he is rather pleased with Legolas' response. At least that is how I read it. (shrug) But anyway... Please update soon~
Author's reply
I'm sorry. All I can tell you is that Eilian's forebodings have apparently come true. :-)
I think that Gelmir would have like Legolas to do as he asked, but he was willing to accept Legolas's answer philosophically. And Legolas is doing very well, thank goodness. His skills may soon be needed!
emjo
· 26 September 2004
· Chapter 6: A Settler's Alarm
Daw all I can say is I love it and PLEASE hurry with more!
Author's reply
I'm glad you like it, Emjo. I'm feeling slow with this one because I'm back at work, but it's coming!