Manderly
· 29 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
What a heart-warming ending to another wonderful story. Everything just fell in so nicely - very satisfying.
Thranduil is such a good adar, not only to his own kids. He was absolutely wonderful with Rodda. That poor kid really needed a good parental hug, not to mention the assurances from an adult figure. And sweet little Legolas, suffering all of Rodda's fears and heart-break right along with the Man child. Really want to have a son like Legolas, but I suppose Thranduil would object.
I really liked the scene with Rodda, Eilian and the twins. The way you worked the story, there was some closure for the twins as well.
And the final scene on the archery field was very touching - Legolas standing by Turgon in support, while Ithilden and Eilian standing by their little brother in support. A heart-felt sigh is the only reaction to such a scene.
Once again, thank you for another wonderful story. I will wait a week and then start holding my breath for your next story. Does that give you enough time?
Author's reply
Thank you, Manderly. Thranduil did come out very fatherly in this story, particularly when he crouched next to the bed and talked to Rodda, who had no idea who he was other then Legolas's father. His experience in dealing with his own kids came through there and Rodda knew it. Sadly, I expect you're right. Thranduil is not loaning Legolas out to anyone. As a matter of fact, even hundreds of years down the road, he's pretty ticked off at the unauthorized borrowing that Elrond did!
The scene with the twins went through several revisions in order to try to make things come to some sort of closure. They're very slippery to write about for me, probably because I haven't done it much.
And I did love Legolas with Turgon on the archery field. What a great kid! And his family knows it too.
I'll probably start another story reasonably soon because I get bored when I'm not writing, but I haven't thought about it too much yet. :-)
Duchess
· 29 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
Aw, what a wonderful way for the story to end! *contented sigh* I really hope Rodda and Legolas manage to continue to be pen pals. *g* I absolutely love it that Thranduil basically told Alen (and through him the rest of Esgaroth) that the boy was under his protection. I'm also glad he went home to the friends of his family and I hope he had a happy life.
Sweet that Legolas put himself on the same footing as Turgon there at the last, intended or not and it made him feel lots better I see. *vbg*
Yet another darling story! Thank you very much for sharing it with us. :):):)
Author's reply
Thank you, Duchess. I considered sending Rodda to Imladris with the twins and Mithrandir, but I decided he needed to be in familiar surroundings and Thranduil would keep an eye on him. I'm sure he did have a happy life. :-)
I've been fretting about poor Turgon, so from the start I planned to have Legolas stand with him on arrow day. I really think the Elven Child Welfare Association needs to look in on Turgon and Amdir.
thechevin
· 29 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
As ever I am disappointed that we have reached the end of this tale I have really enjoyed the different perspectives of grief and loss and the importance of family solidarity that you have woven for us
I am constantly surprised and yet shouldn't be of the capacity of Thranduil to show love and caring not only for his children but so many others
It struck me while reading this chapter that Legolas has a great deal of his father in him, and his ability to care for others is limitless and not hampered by the need to rule a kingdom either
SO that is how the river became 'Enchanted' I am glad Ithliden was there to see it and wonder once more at his father
And the ending was lovely with all three brothers showing solidarity
I don't like to nag but I hope we see a new story very soon
thank you so much for sharing your talent with us
Author's reply
I'm so glad you liked it. When I'm struggling with a bunch of plot lines and trying to tie it all together, it sometimes seems hopeless, but then it comes together in the end, and I'm so pleased (and surprised)!
I love your comparison of Thranduil and Legolas. It makes such sense. Somewhere, Legolas learned to accept responsibility for others, and his father is certainly a good example of that. As I write about Legolas and his friends, it's often struck me that Legolas must see the world in a wider way than they do. He hears things around the dinner table and sees his family doing things that make him aware of ME and of what's going on there. And as the king's son, he's been raised to think of himself as having a responsibility for the public good.
Yes, that's how the river got that way! LOL. Writing magic is tricky, I find, but Thranduil's comes from his connection to Arda. At least it seems that way to me. So enchanting a river would be right up his alley.
I don't know what I'll write next. I haven't even thought about it, actually. I'll go look at my list of ideas one of these days.
Bodkin
· 29 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
'In harmony with the woodland, Ithilden’s beat quickly.' Typo.
The power of the magic is in its apparent simplicity. Far more effective than hocus pocus.
Author's reply
Thank you! Fixed it.
And thank you again. I think Thranduil's magic comes from Arda, from his connection to it as the king of the wood-elves. So I think it should look kind of "natural."
Bodkin
· 29 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
I'll bet Penntalion knew that Legolas had made beautiful arrows, though. And that Turgon hadn't. If nothing else, the shoulder to shoulder arrival of the guard would have warned him not to mess with their brother. It's a shame he didn't get to see the arrows, though, even if they weren't there for the lesson.
Thranduil made such an excellent display of his fatherly skills here - and I love the way Legolas and his friends never thought to mention that his father was the king. I can just see Legolas spending his life downplaying his royal origins - proud of his family, but not rubbing others' noses in their position. Rodda needed the father first, before meeting the king.
So many things to enjoy here - Eilian on babysitting duty, the effect of a distressed child on E2 and how they found it easier to let him in, Thranduil's magic, wise old Mithrandir - all of it really and I don't have time to go into detail. Just - loved it: want more. (Your stories are just too short, daw! But fortunately, you always seem to be ready to start another.)
Author's reply
Penntalion probably knows his students pretty well, so I wouldn't be surprised if he knew that Turgon was unlikely to have arrows and did suspect that something was up with Legolas, especially since he arrived with both brothers, as you point out. I wonder if that made him nervous? Normally, I think of wood-elves as unimpressed with royalty. I think they see Thranduil as there to serve them. So I don't think of Legolas's teachers as nervous about teaching the king's son. But being watched might make him jumpy!
I think that Legolas was raised in the noblesse oblige tradition. He would see denying his royal role as shirking his duty, but neither he nor his brothers are likely to go around lording it over others. It's just not the wood-elf way. And it's not the Thranduilion way either!
I was worried about writing the magic. I tend to be very realistic so this is not my natural bent. I'm glad it came off ok.
lwarren
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
As my students say when a good story's over..."Awwwww man!" I am sorry to see this one end, though you ended things pretty perfect, daw!
Thranduil is such a good father! He almost has those "kittens" when he hears Legolas' story, but restrains himself when he notices Legolas' emotional state. Then he does the fatherly thing to do - he goes to assess the situation, takes one look at the poor, frightened, grieving Mannish child and melts like a big elven marshmallow! I especially liked the scene of him on the floor eyelevel with Rodda and then hugging that poor boy when he finally breaks down. Then he takes the boy home, feeds him, cleans him up and shelters him with his own son! (And takes time to notice how his own son has given of himself and his things to comfort Rodda, too.) All through the chapter you can sense his growing pride in the way Legolas has shown such compassion (even though he'll probably still get a lecture later about the possible dangers...this still worked out ok for all concerned). And yes, I agree, this whole episode was a very Legolas thing for him to do! :-) He is, after all, the compassionate, thoughtful, worrier of the family - he always seems to be reaching out to help someone, or wondering HOW he can help! (I love this little elf, can ya tell? *g*)
However, one of my very favorite parts in the whole story (aside from a coldly furious Thranduil stalking the cloth merchant) is the part where Thranduil enchants the river (with Mithrandir's help). I think you did a great job describing the whole process - and I dearly loved the way the trees got involved and excited. Thranduil draws his power from his forest, not a ring, and does a pretty good job of it - and look how his trees love their King!
The solution of Rodda's dilemma - well done. Alen strikes just the right tone in his reaction to seeing Rodda alive, which has to be reassuring for the boy. Elian is all protective about him - more reassurance. The decision for him to go back to Esgaroth is a good one as he does belong in a familiar setting with people who know the Elvenking is watching out for the boy! I think he'll do just fine - and he has a Prince for a penpal!
Glad to see E2 finally showing a little sense and some thawing! I was not comfortable with their vengeful sides and those cold, withdrawn attitudes they had. Go home, boys...get some home cooking and let your Ada and little sister (and Glorfindel and Erestor) fuss over you while you love on them some, too!
Lovely brotherly support for Legolas at the end - and I loved the way the archery master didn't make a big deal of Turgon and Legolas not having their arrows. Kids are definitely sensitive at that age and more harm than good can come of making examples of them in front of their friends. (Especially Legolas who is so conscientious anyway...he would have been mortified!) But his big brothers were there for support and in their eyes, he had "shined" in more than archery that day! Great great story! It's over? AWWWWWW, MAN!
linda
Author's reply
I loved that scene with Thranduil comforting Rodda. I think it was because Rodda didn't know he was the king. He was just Legolas's father. He was what Thranduil would have been if he hadn't been Oropher's heir, but just an Elf with a family to love and raise and protect. I think Thranduil probably has mixed feelings about Legolas's generosity. Mostly, he's proud. But he can also see that that generosity could get Legolas into trouble -- like maybe he'll go on a quest to Mordor someday! And then, mice get brought into the palace. :-)
Wood-elf magic (which Tolkien says is "strong") seems to me to be tied to Arda. It's hard to write about because it doesn't come from some exterior, flashy thing (and also because I'm a practical person). To me, it's like Thranduil draws on his connection as the king of this realm and the earth responds. And yes, the trees got "excited"! Great word for it.
I considered sending Rodda to Imladris with the twins and Mithrandir, but I decided that it would be more realistic for him to want to go to a familiar place. And I think he needed to make his peace with his fellow soldiers and know he hadn't done anything unforgiveable. But it would have been good for the twins to have to take care of him for a while. It would take them out of themselves. Even helping him a little in the garden did that.
The archery master has seen it all before. And he knows his students well. If Legolas has no arrows, there's a reason. And he must have some sense of the reason for Turgon's behavior too. Poor kid.
Yeah. It was Legolas's day to shine. :-)
Elena Tiriel
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
Daw, I've doing very little reading lately -- and even less reviewing -- but I want you to know that I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Legolas and his family are heroes, and I was so pleased to see the beginnings of healing with Rodda and Elladan and Elrohir. And there's finally some canon (Daw!verse) on the origins of the Enchanted River!
- Barbara
Author's reply
Glad you liked it, Barbara. I was startled to see that discussion of the Enchanted River pop up on SoA Yahoo a week or two back because I had been planning to use this material here. Actually, showing how the river got enchanted has been on fanfic to-do list forever! Wood-elf magic seems so bound to Arda. No magic trinkets here, just the connection to the trees and the river and the stars.
It's been interesting to try to write about the twins. Tolkien says almost nothing and fanfic says so much that it's hard to know what they'd be like. And then, they weren't themselves anyway.
French Pony
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
I think Legolas's judgement was much better than Thranduil thought it was. After all, Legolas was the one who actually met Rodda, and kids can be awfully good judges of other kids. And Legolas did think to come and tell his Ada when things were getting too far in over his head. I like Thranduil here. He behaved just like my own parents would, which is saying a lot. My parents' philosophy is that they raised me to be able to judge right and wrong, and therefore they trust me to make good friends and get away from the ones who are not so good. So their default is that they automatically like all my friends, even before they meet them, and they're perfectly willing to have someone they don't even know come and crash for a few days if need be.
Rodda suddenly finds himself with all these people, Men and Elves and Half-Elves all three, all looking out for him and wanting to find a place for him. I do hope that made him feel better. He is so valuable to so many people, and now he knows that definitively. He'll grow up in Esgaroth and tell this amazing story to his children and his grandchildren. I wonder if he's in any way related to that little girl that Legolas got kidnapped with right before Sinnarn was born. Legolas does seem to be good at collecting mortal friends, and he's certainly better than Thranduil at not intimidating them. Which will, of course, be a skill he'll need much later in the future.
So that's how the river got to be enchanted. Thranduil rarely gets a chance to do his magical thing, but when he does, it's nicely subtle and organic. There's no big flashes and bangs like with Gandalf, but you can just feel the magic thrumming, like a gong or a pedal point in the timpani.
And finally, Legolas goes to the big archery class without his homework for the very best of reasons. I loved that both Ithilden and Eilian made excuses to come with him. It's a sign that they approve of the choices he made, that they're going to go back him up when he explains how the human ate his homework. Because, as Eilian might say, what are brothers for?
Sisters, by the way, are for hugging, and I did go to my family and get to hug my sister and feast on turkey.
Since this story is now over, I think I'll tell you the story of my incredibly poor (but well-meant) judgement episode. When I was eighteen years old, I took off a year between high school and college and went to Germany to do a year of high school there, so I could perfect my German. I was staying with a family who, at the time, were Old Family Friends. They had three daughters, who were at the time twenty, nineteen and sixteen. I had a great time in school, made lots of wonderful friends, and my German was getting really good. The two older daughters were off at college.
Unfortunately, the mother was less than happy to have me there. It turned out that she had only agreed to take me out of a sense of obligation (we had hosted each of the daughters for a summer), she didn't really want another person, I was too bold and too American for her refined, titled taste, and to top it all off, she turned out to be nastily anti-Semitic as well. Come Christmas break, she calmly turned to me over tea (her, me, all three daughters present) and told me that The Family thought I was a terrible, uncivilized person, they didn't want me anymore, and that I should leave and never come back. It didn't matter that my parents were on sabbatical that year and didn't have a place for me, nor that I couldn't go to college a semester early all of a sudden. I could starve in the snow for all she cared.
The two older daughters and I immediately ran off into the hills outside the city and came up with The Plan. We did not want to alarm my parents, nor bring publicity and dishonor to their parents, we thought there was a real danger of me ending up homeless in the German winter, and we all wanted me to finish out the year at the German school with my pals. So we agreed that I would go home and beg another chance, and they would back me up, and we wouldn't tell anyone outside their family what had happened, and it would all smooth itself over. And that's what we did. We went back, and The Family convened to put me on trial (in German!), and they agreed that I could stay as long as I remained perfectly silent and dutiful and tried not to be too obviously Jewish in their presence. So I did that. For another five months, in that cold, hate-filled house, until circumstances changed, and the family of one of my school friends rescued me.
Looking back on it ten years later, it was a really stupid decision, but it did work out for the best. I'm not sure I wouldn't be tempted to do something similar again, even older and supposedly wiser. And so I can very well see and understand the logic that Legolas and Co. used when trying to decide what to do with Rodda.
Author's reply
Oh my lord. I want to send Thranduil over to rescue your 18-year-old self! I want to have him tell prowl around that lady and tell her off and make her sorry she was ever born! I want her to have to beg your pardon and grovel and offer you whatever you choose by way of atonement. I want Thranduil to write a letter to the mayor and tell him what she did and warn him that she better behave from now on.
Ahem. Excuse me a minute while I walk around a little.
OK. I'm better now.
Actually, I liked the image of Thranduil crouching by the bedside just being Legolas's father who was trying to help this other kid who didn't know squat about him but knew a dad when he saw one. You're right. He will have an amazing story to tell. His kids will get tired of hearing it! Oh no, Dad, not the I-was-lost-and-hid-out-with-the-elves story!
Magic is hard to write. Actually your story about the Stag King felt really magical to me. I think Thranduil's magic comes from Arda and he gets himself in tune with it to make it work. He may not have complete control over it.
And yes, Ithilden and Eilian stand and watch proudly while Legolas lines up with Turgon and has no arrows. It's a day for him to shine.
sofia
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
Thranduil handed the news of the boy well. That was a great ending to the story. Its nice to read about Thranduil acting like a father figure, in a way, to Rodda.
-sofia
Author's reply
Thranduil was very fatherly and I loved seeing it. So far as Rodda knew, he was just Legolas's father and that's what he needed.
I'm sad the story is over, but I'm glad you enjoyed it.
The Karenator
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
Daw, you wrapped this up beautifully. Despite Thranduil's concern over how the boy would effect the realm's relationship with Esgaroth, he steadied himself and put the child's need before his own. What a surprise for Rodda when he found out who Legolas's father was.
In the end, everything came full circle. The twins understood, even if they weren't quite ready to deal with going home just yet. I liked the way they were kind and gentle with Rodda. And of course, Alen's positive reaction to seeing the child made all the difference.
The enchantment-of-the-river scene was great. Nothing showy for Thranduil, just a calm, matter of fact, everyday enchantment. Very graceful and very powerful.
The ending was particularly nice. Seeing the older brothers escort and offer support to Legolas was very touching. I'm sure Legolas was nervous about not having his own arrows and knowing his brothers were proud of him and supporting him was wonderful. I was even proud of Ithilden for holding it together when Alfirin showed up. I think this was the moment she was certain that he was 'the one'. What woman can turn down a guy who looks at a child with the kind of love that shone in Ithilden's eyes at that moment for his little brother? And he wasn't even trying...
Delightful story. I'm looking forward to the next one.
Karen
Author's reply
Thank you, Karen. Rodda needed a parent, so Legolas went and got one. And as it happens, this one can make sure the boy is well treated, much to Rodda's surprise!
I see the twins as just temporarily unbalanced, but all those years of being Elrond's children have to have a lasting effect and come through in the end.
Magic is hard to write (understatement). I think that Thranduil's comes from Arda, so that's what I wanted to show, but it's tricky to tread that line and have it be magic without being hokey. At least, for me it is.
What a good thought about Alfirin! You must be right! She has to love him for that.
ScarlettPendragon
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
OK, you have me in tears again - only this time they're tears of joy!
It is indeed Legolas' "day to really shine"! I'm so glad he has Ithilden and Elian to stand beside him, and I knew Thranduil would come through!!
I'm sure, even though he didn't say anything, that Thranduil must be so proud of his little elfing for giving up his arrows for his new friend,
and Ithilden is master of the understatement, as always!!
And in an strange way, I'm glad that Turgon isn't the only one who is without his own arrows -
and how much do we love Penntalion for not making a fuss, and marking out the little ones without!! I'm sure Penntalion's seen it all
over the years he's been Archery Master, and I can't imagine anything disconcerting him!
I love your take on how the Enchanted River GOT enchanted in the first place - Go Thranduil!!
And I must admit, I thought Mithrandir might take Rodda back to Imladris with him, but I really like how you resolved the story
- Rodda should be at home with people he knows and is comfortable with, and now he's got an ElvenKing looking out after his welfare!!
Again, this was an absolutely wonderful story, and I very much look forward to the next adventure in the lives of Mirkwood's Royal Family!!
Thank you!!
Scarlett
Author's reply
Thank you, Scarlett. It may be sick of me, but I'm glad I made you cry. :-)
I did like the brotherly support at the end. It's odd to think of them proud of the fact that Legolas has NO arrows, but they are. And I too wanted Turgon to have some company. I've been planning to have this happen all along, so I felt better when poor Turgon couldn't make the arrows. I also thought just as you did, that Penntalion would know that not all kids would show up with the arrows and would have the armory arrows ready for them to use. Any kid who shows up without arrows is going to feel bad enough already. No need to make him feel worse.
I actually did consider having the twins and Mithrandir take Rodda back to Imladris with them. I thought it would be good for the twins to think about someone besides themselves. But then I decided that Rodda would be more comfortable in a familiar place and also that he needed to face the people at home and know that he was accepted, not an outcast.
I'm glad you liked it. Very glad. :-)
meckinock
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
“I live here, and my adar is the king. He already judged you, I think.”
LOL! Poor Rodda! I'm so glad he got his hug from Thranduil before he found out he was the king. Hugs from Thranduil are very powerful!
Although his apoplectic outburst at Legolas's revelation was amusing - I swear it sounded like he was saying Legolas could have caught something from the unwashed mortal.
But talk about Thranduil having kittens - I'm glad he wasn't there to hear Eilian of all people promise that Rodda could stay and live in Mirkwood as long as he wanted to.
Interesting thought that Elladan and Elrohir might have been able to find the young'un a home with the Rangers - I have heard tell that they occasionally take in strays - but I agree with Elladan that the boy really belongs with his own people; and it's good that the twins, too, seem ready to go home and begin healing.
Legolas's generosity and openness really shines through in this story. I loved the ending, with Ithilden and Eilian standing side by side watching in pride as Legolas shows up with no arrows because he gave his beautiful blue-feathered ones to Rodda.
Author's reply
LOL. Are you thinking of Annael's nana's kisses? Thranduil hugs are powerful. I really liked thinking about Rodda seeing Thranduil just as Legolas's dad (not the king), who was crouched by the bedside offering to help. Rodda needed a dad just then.
I figured Eilian was just repeating what the kids had told him Thranduil said about Rodda staying with Thranduil. They were a bit optimistic, I think. He should have known better!
Yeah, the rangers are like that, I hear! And the sons of Elrond do know about fostering mannish children.
The brotherly support at the end was my favorite. :-)
Karri
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
A wonderful conclusion, daw. Thranduil was wonderful with Rodda. Eilian's protectiveness was as endearing as Eilian always manages to be. I liked that Rodda's beliefs about his reception by the Men was mistaken.
Author's reply
Glad you liked it, Karri. I kind of liked the idea of Thranduil crouching next to the bed on which Rodda cowered, being just Legolas's dad who was willing to help Rodda too. Rodda had no idea he was the king. :-)
Lamiel
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
I like Thranduil's musing on whether Legolas' brothers had ever been so eager to fight another person's battles as Legolas was. It's a good point, and this story demonstrates the idea clearly - especially when Legolas gave up his peacock feathered arrows. Poor dear. I feel so proud of him.
Wonderful, wonderful scene with Thranduil enchanting the river. Ha! That was just brilliant.
And I'm glad that Rodda got off home safely, and no worries about beatings or anything else so unpleasant. I wonder if the same could be said of that merchant, when his neighbors find out how he's damaged their trade relations with the Elvenking.
Oh, and a nice bit of character growth for the Twins, too. I was grinning to myself when they discussed the challenges of raising Mannish children.
Thanks for this lovely story. It's been a treat!
Author's reply
Thank you, Lamiel. I think it may have been you who made that comment about Legolas shining and I just had to use it here. I knew he was going to give away the arrows, but I thought that was shining too.
I'm glad the river thing worked. Magic is hard to write without getting hokey.
I hope the merchant got kicked around. He was slimey and nasty.
And the twins should know about raising Mannish children. All those heirs of Isildur!
Glad you liked it, Lamiel.
Leaward
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 10: True Colors
I love the amount of detail you use without getting in the way of the story.
This really stood out ... "The river ran fast and deep but was no more than a dozen yard across. In the chilly autumn evening, it burbled soothingly of the mountains from which it came and the forest through which it ran." I really struggle writing such descriptive prose.
And there was one line that really got me giggling:
"Hiding a stray boy was such a Legolas thing to do"
I really enjoyed this story, Daw. Thanks!
Leaward
Author's reply
Truth be told, I struggle with description too. I hardly ever use it actually. Most of the time I don't care what someone is wearing or how the room looks. But in this case, I wanted to make the Nature/Elf connection to suggest that that's the source of Thranduil's magic.
I'm glad you liked that line. It is a Legolas thing to do though, don't you think? :-)
sofia
· 28 November 2004
· Chapter 9: Revelations
Cudry sure is sure of himself. That must of been a surprise to him to see that the elves knew of his plan.
-sofia
Author's reply
Cudry got what was coming to him! Thranduil is no one to fool around with and I fervently hope that Cudry is cowering a corner somewhere, whimpering to himself.
Rose Sared
· 27 November 2004
· Chapter 9: Revelations
Ahh, there is something to be said for missing a month of updates. I get to read a whole arc of a story in one go. Most enjoyable!
Gosh, isn't Legolas brave to go to Thrandy, I think I would have gone to Ithilden, but good on him - how else would he explain the dissapearence of his arrows?
Nice to see Eilian growing a bit in contrast to the truly mucked-up twins.
Lovely stuff, thanks
Rose
Author's reply
Legolas is very brave indeed. But I think he's also young enough that he thinks his father can fix anything. Is there anyone more powerful in his world? No. And he's seen his father at his most tender. So when he has to put his trust in someone, it's Thranduil he chooses.
And Eilian is doing very well. The twins need time. And they need to go home!
I hope your month hiatus was to do something fun and not, for instance, to deal with massive computer problems.
perelleth
· 27 November 2004
· Chapter 9: Revelations
I must say that while all your OCs are wonderfully depicted (and I’m still trying to discern which of them I like more!) your Thranduil seems Oh so accurate to me! I see him like a great King Lion, deceptively calm and so difficult to rein in once he is “awake” and feels the need to release a powerful roar… just to make sure everybody remembers who and why is the king… He is wroth with the merchant and has every reason to be, but then I think he also enjoys showing off his teeth. A force of nature on his own, and so transparent when it comes to his loved ones! even enraged he is able to turn into a loving Adar and notice “his heart’s” trouble!! I simply bow before this king of the woodland realm!!
I’ve loved such a long chapter…. And all the more ‘cause I found it after a long- ugly- exhausting week… you are truly a fast updater!!!! The part when Rodda explains, and Amdir greets the birds, and Legolas holds to the child’s foot wow! It struck me so real, that feeling of unreality one sometimes has when dealing with bad news, when you notice small unimportant details while trying to ease away from the grief...wonderfullly wrapped up!
And then, such a detail: “he grasped Rodda’s ankle, as much to have something to hold on to as to sympathize.” You got it. He is a kid too. What comfort he has to share he is freely offering to the human boy, but he is also overwhelmed!!! Glad he is finally telling Ada! (and thanks to Mithrandir!)
The whole scene in the Great Hall is so funny.. it is like a complete double-entendre: they all know each other thoroughly so there’s no point in trying to hide anything but for formality’s sake… so undercurrents and understanding keep flowing around the Hall while the twins stand in the middle just like a couple of freezers someone left open…
What did Mithrandir exactly say he was doing in Mirkwood by the way? ;-)
Author's reply
I love Thranduil. Your phrase, "a force of nature," seems just right to me. I think his connection to his woods is the source of his magic, which I'm not sure he always has complete control over.
Amdir amuses me. And hearing him outside, so cheery, would be just unreal while horror is being narrated inside the cottage. Poor Rodda. Poor Legolas too. This is just too much for him. Both of these kids need an adult to help, and Legolas has gone to the one who, in his experience, can fix everything.
Writing that Great Hall scene was challenging because I wanted it from Ithilden's point of view but I wanted to show what everyone else was thinking too. It was fun!
Mithrandir never said what brought him. He seems to have spent his time wandering anyway and he just popped up.
meckinock
· 26 November 2004
· Chapter 9: Revelations
Amazing how just being around Gandalf makes you want to do the right thing. Actually I guess Legolas always wanted to do the right thing; he just couldn't sort out what the right thing was. That was very brave of him to go charging into the cottage with his knife drawn when he heard Rodda cry out. I'm glad he decided to tell Thranduil about Rodda before the kid got halfway through Mirkwood by himself.
I'm a little worried about E2. They are starting to look a bit psychotic. I hope Gandalf has them on his therapy calendar.
But Thranduil...how splendidly, deliciously dangerous he was with Cudry. Wow. Circling like a hungry tiger toying with his prey; slicing off a little bit here, a little bit there. I liked it when he lost it and slipped back into the singular voice to talk about his sheep-shearing plans. What a vision! Ithilden seems to have thought so, too.
I hope that Ithilden does get Eilian to talk about the orc hunt.
Author's reply
Legolas is still (just barely) young enough to believe that his father can fix everything, and once he got the go-ahead from Mithrandir, he knew where to go. I think E2 are going to need time, but I'll see what I can do to bring them out of themselves a little.
Many readers seem to enjoy the picture of scary!Thranduil, as long as he's mad at someone else. I actually could picture Thranduil shearing sheep, but I could not picture him weaving. Ithilden had trouble with both things, I think.
Brazgirl
· 25 November 2004
· Chapter 9: Revelations
This chapter was awsome! How can you make your characters so believable? I love your Thranduil, how mean he was the human and how persuasive he can be.
Poor Rodda! He really had a sad story to tell. And Legolas? That was though for him to hear... And now he was about to tell his father what is going on... I am willing to read it. It seems Eilian finally gave his brother the vengeance Ithilden needed... ahaha. Have I told you I love this name? Ithilden? It is a beautiful name. All of the three sons of Thranduil have good names. Eilian sounds nice too.
Author's reply
Thank you, Brazgirl. Thranduil is scary when he's angry, isn't he?
Poor Rodda indeed. Legolas has finally decided to tell the person who, in his experience, is the most powerful person around and someone who can fix anything. Thank goodness.
I'm glad you like my characters' names. "Eilian" is the Sindarin word for rainbow, and "Ithil" means moon. I think that Thranduil and his wife conceived all of their children in the woods and their names reflect the way things looked when they made them.
caz-baz
· 25 November 2004
· Chapter 9: Revelations
That was very good. I love how intimidating Thranduil can be in your stories and Ithilden's part in it too was very satisfing.
Caz - Baz
Can't wait for the next chapter.
Author's reply
Glad you liked it, Caz-Baz. Thranduil is scary when he's mad. Ithilden enjoyed the whole show, I think. He's like Thranduil's apprentice and likes to learn how to be intimidating too.
elliska
· 25 November 2004
· Chapter 9: Revelations
I got up early before I had to start cooking and boy am I glad. So much fun reading to enjoy. Iloved Legolas and the boy. You have had some sweet little Legolas moments in many of your stories but this was the best. Legolas is just absolutely adorable comforting the scaried little mortal child. That just seems so perfectly in character to me. And Amdir in the background of all this grief with his "Mae govennan, birdies." Also dear but so sad. So much tragedy comes to his life and his parents are just oblivious. Wonderful.
I got a big kick out of all the interaction when Eilian made his return. You got absolutely everything possible out of that without missing any of it's potential. Ithilden's relief amused me. He really doesn't contradict Thranduil too many times that we've seen and this was certainly one way that could have ended much worse. I loved how Ithilden and Thranduil could see Eilian's not quite right attitude. But the best part was Maltanaur's reaction to Eilian's reaction. Yes, he got a little vindication in this whole thing.
So Legolas thinks he can be cautious with Mithrandir and learn something. Well he did but I seriously doubt Mithrandir missed much. I really enjoy young Legolas' interaction with Mithrandir. Gandalf is the one member of the Fellowship that can look back on Legolas' youth while Legolas looks at the youth of everyone else. There is so much potential there. As you've said before, Mithrandir's interest in Legolas must just make Thranduil itch. But this little conversation was great. Legolas learns what he needs to know to make him comfortable trusting his family to help. And he learns some scary things about the way others live and how lucky he is. I wonder if it hits him that no matter how badly he behaves he need never fear a beating from his father (look how stupid he has to be to earn one light swat on the behind!) whereas this child is worrying about hangings and real beatings.
Now, to what I will admit was my favorite part--I just get the biggest kick out of Angry!Thranduil. From the safety of the other side of my computer screen I giggled gleefully all the way through this. I love watching Thranduil calmly destroy lies and expose treachery. Too perfect. Thranduil's punishment was just perfect--hit him where it really hurt. I imagine the Master of Lake Town will probably add something to it even less pleasant. He would not Lake Town's reputation damaged by one bad egg. I loved: "I will shear the sheep and weave the cloth myself if I have to before I will deal with the likes of you again!” That was great! Scary, but great!
And Legolas' interruption. That was so well done. Thranduil shifts from furious king to caring ada so well. Great job! One of my Thanksgiving blessings is such wonderful fanfiction. Thanks!
Author's reply
It's great to have a reviewer who appreciates the entire House of Oropher. :-)
I felt bad for Rodda when I was writing about him, and bad for Legolas listening in horror and not knowing what to do. I was exceedingly relieved to send him off to Thranduil at the end. He wavered for a moment as Thranduil struggled to make that transition back to Adar, but in the end, he knew who he trusted to fix almost anything.
One of the most interesting problems I've struggled with in learning to write is point of view. That scene in the Great Hall was an example. I was most interested in Ithilden's reaction, which is why we see from his pov, but then I had to figure out how to convey what the others were thinking or feeling too. That's the kind of thing that makes me stare at the screen for a while, but when I'm done, it's so satisfying. It's like solving a puzzle.
Like the rest of his family, Legolas is sorting out his feelings about men. He sees Rodda as just a kid who needs help. But he hears that Rodda comes from a group of people who hang people and beat children. That has to take a while to process.
I can imagine Thranduil shearing sheep, but sitting still and patiently weaving cloth? That one's hard!
Lamiel
· 25 November 2004
· Chapter 9: Revelations
Ooh, we likes the Elven king with his temper up, oh yes we does precious! At least, when it isn't directed at us. But mmm, using the royal "we", and stalking around the merchant like that, ohhh, now that was a truly lovely sight. Too rarely do we get to see Thranduil exercise that famous temper, and seeing him in all his glory here... oh, that was a wonderful treat. Thank you!
Really I must compliment you on a lot of things in this chapter. I particularly noticed the bit when Legolas was with Rodda in the cabin, trying to get him to speak, and the narrative paused for a moment to describe the outside sounds, Turgon's brother greeting the birds and so on. That was very cute, by the way. It was a wonderfully effective way of showing Rodda's hesitation and reluctance to speak, by making the reader slow down and wait as well, rather than just saying "time passed." Nicely done.
I'm also pleased to see Legolas interact with Mithrandir a bit more, and very glad that he's decided to trust Thranduil enough to tell him what's going on. Interesting that he stuck to that decision even after seeing his father rip the merchant a new one.
Anyway. Great chapter, great story, as always. Pity FF.net is being such a pain right now, but I am glad to have the chance to read it here instead. I only wish my current fic met the rating standards of SoA - I could post my new chapter here and save myself a lot of stress.
Author's reply
Glad you liked Angry!Thranduil. He's fun to write too. If I were the merchant, I'd be whimpering in a corner somewhere.
Lamiel, you think like a writer and I'm so flattered. I drafted that scene between Legolas and Rodda, and then I thought "It needs to be slowed down." And that's when I wrote the bit about Amdir greeting the birds and stuck it in. So I was thinking in exactly the terms you used. :-)
Legolas wavered for just a second after watching Thranduil tear into the merchant, but in the long run, he decided to trust that his father would appear, not the king. He wants the person who would never allow a child to suffer and calls him "my heart."
I'm looking forward to your next chapter. I've been thinking about your story and wondering what you're going to do with it, and I assume I'm not the only one!
The Karenator
· 24 November 2004
· Chapter 9: Revelations
Ah ha! I was right! The poor kid feared being a deserter. Who can blame him for running for his life? And what he witnessed was terrible for anyone to see, but for a child to see his own father die was too much. Legolas's compassion was touching. It was sweet of him to give Rodda his arrows, and it must have been tough to give them up. I have a feeling that in the end that won't be necessary, but Thranduil can be proud of his youngest son. Legolas was willing to give up something he valued. And when he goes to his father, he's risking a lot there too. You know Turgon won't understand that decision! I'm sure Thranduil will handle things well, but Legolas must wonder what sort of trouble he'll be in for hiding the kid. And Mithrandir...he always seems to know a little more than he's telling. What was the ranger's great line..."To know Gandalf is to ever wander paths of one's own choosing only to end up at Gandalf's destination? Or something like that. The old wizard knows far more than he'll admit.
A lot of unspoken communication was flying around the throne room when the 3E's and Maltanaur reported. Nothing went over the king's or Ithilden's heads though. Obviously, the orc hunt turned out to be a rather tense mission.
The merchant certainly stumbled into a hornets' nest. He wasn't quite as nifty a businessman as he thought. And now he's gone and ticked off the Elvenking. Bad move. Bad move. I don't think the folks back home are going to be pleased with his business strategy either.
I'm looking forward to finding out how Thranduil handles the boy's situation. Great chapter.
Karen
Author's reply
You're always right, Karen! That's what makes you so dangerous! LOL
I felt terrible even writing those things about what Rodda had seen. I can't imagine what it would be like to live through them. I think that giving up the arrows must have been unbelievably hard for Legolas. No one asked him to do it. No one would know if he didn't. He'd made them with his father and Eilian and they're beautiful. And he needs them for his archery class. But he gave them away anyway. Yes, I think Thranduil can be very proud.
I actually had to stop for a minute to realize that that line about Gandalf was Meckinock's and not Tolkien's. It's early here, but that's also a sign of what a great line it is.
Thranduil is pleased that Eilian is no longer as charmed as he was by the twins, and I don't blame him. I'm sure they're good company at some points, but they're not good for Eilian right now.
lwarren
· 24 November 2004
· Chapter 8: Setting Plans in Motion
Well, do I feel really stupid! No wonder I didn't know what had happened between the twins and Eilian as I missed an entire chapter! How on God's green earth did that happen? Oh well, now I get to review this one too! *does a happy dance* You know, daw, *strokes chin in a very intelligent manner* many things can be explained if one reads a story IN THE ORDER IT IS WRITTEN!!!!! Now I see why Thranduil suspected the cloth merchant, and why Legolas was taking clothing to Rodda...*exasperated huff*
I loved the conversation at the table (while Legolas was eating) about Elu Thingol and his treatment of Beren and his attachment to the Silmaril. Thranduil's slightly scandalized thought of what was the tutor letting his child read anyway was so typical of a concerned parent when their kid comes up with some kind of weird information or something. The battle with the orcs was well-written, and Eilian made a very important discovery about himself. His need for revenge still could manifest and he didn't like it at all. I hate to say this, but I think he's right to give E2 a wide berth right now, at least 'til they get themselves back in order again. Now Legolas and Co. are planning to help Rodda escape to a new life (Woodland Witness Protection Program, right?) and I'm going to reread the next chapter again with all this new information I've miraculously discovered!!! :-) Great chapter, daw!
linda
Author's reply
You know, I didn't want to say anything directly, but it occurred to me that that might have happened. I'm an unnaturally fast updater, and people sometimes do miss chapters. Actually, I'm impressed that, except for the E3 situation, you seemed to have no trouble following the other chapter!
You're a teacher, aren't you? Did I read that somewhere? Anyway, if you are, I'll bet you've seen that what-is-my-child-reading-or-being-told-anyway attitude occasionally. Tutoring Thranduil's sons might be a challenging job.
I find battle scenes hard to write. Peter Jackson says that what matters in a battle scene is not the large scale part of it, but the small, in tight, pictures of the central characters. (And if only he'd remember that!) I've tried to follow that advice, and what mattered here to me was that the twins be scary, beautiful, and deadly, and Eilian see his own danger and react to it. Maltanaur must have been thrilled!