French Pony
· 21 April 2005
· Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen: Aldamir
I notice that Thranduil is the one member of the family who thinks to speak to Aldamir before his bath. I'm sure it's one of the things Aldamir loves about his father.
It must be difficult to be royalty and therefore unable to recuse yourself from judgement of your family. Gotta wonder how Queen Elizabeth does it. And talking to all three of the novices together was quite something. Usually, when I've been hauled up in front of an authority figure, any accomplices are given separate talkings-to. But it looks like Belas really caught it this time, so go Aldamir!
As to the dinner, I have but one thing to say. Better a horse pie than a cow pie.
I liked the way you handled Aldamir and Elenna's reunion. There's been too big a rupture for the Hollywood run-and-hug-as-the-credits-roll ending. They have to start right at square one, with relearning how to trust each other again, and that'll take time.
Which is just what I've run out of. Catch you later!
Author's reply
LOL! Yes, Thranduil thought to speak to Aldamir before he jumped in the tub. But then, he doesn't have to try to catch Aldamir for a private talk. He can just summon his commander. The others usually have to take what they can get.
Living in a fish bowl would be difficult. I wouldn't want to. The novices had all already been spoken to by the masters one at a time. Daeron told Legolas about this while Legolas was recovering, and I just hinted in this chapter that Legolas has had his time with them too. Aldamir killed three birds with one stone. The three of them had all been involved in and contributed to the situation in the woods. He let them hear what he had to say to the other ones so that there would be no misunderstanding about what he said. He didn't want to add fuel to Belas's fire by letting him think that Legolas and Daeron had gotten off. He also set a precedence for the current group of novices that he would take and support definitive action against any unprofessional behavior. Belas wasn't too happy to be hauled up before the commander. He's been reprimanded in the past, but somehow...and I don't know how, because I would have been shaking in my boots...the masters hadn't making much of a dent in this nasty attitude. Belas was already skating on thin ice; he just didn't realize it until Aldamir drove it home. What he'll do with this new enlightenment will be up to him. Only time will tell.
The cook will have you know that his sculptured pies are masterpieces! :>)
Too much had happened for Aldamir and Elenna to just kiss and make up. They both still have some maturing to do and they need time to think about what they want from this relationship. Trust is fragile and they've both suffered its ruin. Only time will tell for them as well.
Thanks so much for reviewing, French Pony. I always look forward to your comments.
Karen
Woo-hoo, Aldamir’s home!
That opening paragraph is amazing. I’m always really envious of the way you seem to write description so effortlessly. But do you know how hard it was not to skim through this but to just watch Aldamir go about his business without any notion of what’s happened??!
The scene with the novices was so well done. I’d been wondering what was going to happen to them. When Aldamir explains to each of them what they should have done, it all seems so obvious. But I think he does understand how easy it was to get caught up in the moment, especially when the argument became so personal. Still, if they aren’t reprimanded now, who knows what kind of warriors they’d be? He was very fair with Daeron, I thought and I’m glad he recognised that he carried out his punishment well and without complaint. At least Legolas seems fully recovered again here – I imagine Aldamir would have had a much more difficult time reprimanding him for his actions, no matter how foolish they were, if he was still unwell. He obviously got through to his little brother anyway because Legolas seems to understand exactly where he was at fault. Aldamir does have a gift for getting right to the heart of the matter! It’s just a pity that he didn’t realise that maidens need a bit more delicate handling than novice warriors…;-)
I’m glad Belas was so over-awed by all this. But I must give him credit for handling his punishment much better than I thought he would. I mean, everyone is going to know that he’s been held back a year. Clever Aldamir for trying to get Belas himself to think about what he must do to improve himself and become worthy of a position as a warrior.
How’s Alar doing?
I think I grinned the whole way through the scene between Seregon and Aldamir. Seregon seemed to be constantly veering between enjoying himself and feeling the seriousness of the spider/ nutty villagers situation. He certainly seems to have had time to think about things because he’s wonderfully supportive of both Elenna and Aldamir. But while Aldamir is right to feel ashamed for not listening to his mother, I could have thrown something solid at his head when he starts wondering how he could look his father in the eye and lead warriors and novices. Grrr. That elf seems to have some serious issues with self-doubt. I wish I knew how to make him see his own worth, because people telling him apparently doesn’t work. And yeah, sometimes it’s endearing, but sometimes it’s exceptionally frustrating!!
I liked the scene with Thranduil. He also seems to have been thinking about Elenna. It’s amazing how nice they all are when they’ve had a bit of distance and time to mull things over! Oh, and I love how unashamedly devoted he is to his family. It’s interesting that he owns up to Aldamir that he may have let his love and concern for him take over when Aldamir is trying to do his best to persuade Legolas not to let personal feelings affect his decisions and actions as a warrior or as the king’s son. It seems to be a “failing” they all share. I did feel sorry for Aldamir when he thinks about how closely his personal life is intertwined with his public one and the affairs of the realm. It’s probably something he already knew but boy, lately he can’t seem to go for a minute without someone bringing up Elenna!
The cook! ROTFLMAO!!! Bleeding turtles? Horse pie? Apple trees? Karen, that’s hilarious. Even more amusing is they way they all just resign themselves to the cook’s creativity rather than actually doing anything about it.
Poor Legolas. He really does seem so sorry for everything. I just melted at the line “I do not think I will ever be able to not see you as my brother.” And Aldamir was as reassuring as he possibly could be, I thought. Daeron made me smile with the way he can flick from solemnity to that mischievous grin in a flash.
“I have some plans for this evening as well.” What? Don’t tell me he has a girl too? Can I go with him?
As for Erelas… We really don’t see enough of him. I’m just mentioning that.
“I could still feel the tight handhold of one of my parents as I leaned out over the edge of the bridge to see the swiftly flowing water as it parted around boulders. I loved to drop leaves into the stream and then scurry to the other side of the bridge to watch my leafy ships sail off toward imaginary wild and unknown lands.” I loved that image of little Aldamir!! Loved it.
And finally we get to Elenna… Their scene was perfect. Practicing what she wanted to say seems to have been a good idea. She came across as calm and earnest as well as open and willing to accept what she had done wrong. Most importantly, she recognises the hurt she’s caused him. I don’t imagine many people stun Aldamir into complete silence. I’m glad that even though they’re reaching reconciliation and acknowledge their feelings for one another, they both know they have to take a step back and start anew. The flowers were a lovely touch. I particularly like that he was the one to pluck the white one first.
I hope things work out for Sordien. I like him. :-)
Author's reply
Gosh, Dot, have I told you how much I love your reviews? You pick up so much of the little stuff and the parallels of all the threads in this story. And you're so encouraging. Thanks for the kind words about the descriptions. I like enough description to set the mood, scene and general feel, but I don't want to get bogged down in it. There was a storm brewing for Aldamir on all fronts when he got home, but fortunately, it turned out to only bring a little relief to the drought that the forest and he had suffered. Nothing was cured, just lessened.
Writing the scene with the novices was actually kind of fun. I got to let Aldamir let the young ones have it and then later, go even deeper in his private talk with Legolas. Aldamir was commander and brother within the space of a short time and got to approach the same situation from two different perspectives. Yeah, the commander probably wouldn't have been quite so hard on Legolas at that moment if the little imp hadn't been back in good health. Of course, Legolas is still on the downside of his punishment from his mother for disobeying her. I don't think she was too tough on him either. That was a tough call too. What Legolas did was wrong, but the information he gained was a turning point in what was known about Calith. What's a nana to do? Aldamir was sort of in the same situation. He had to decide just how much reprimand was called for under the circumstances. But he felt something had to be said. Strong leadership is called for in his position, but being fair is also important. Of course, like you said, Aldamir is used to cutting to the chase with warriors and this approach wasn't quite as successful with maidens.
Belas knew he had screwed up bad when he realized the commander had heard everything he said. He's mouthy and pushy and a pain in the rear end, but he's not entirely dumb. Belas wants to be a warrior. But he's not taken seriously the reprimands he gotten from the masters until now. He's still been letting his 'bully' personality rule him. Getting p;opped down in front of the commander shed a whole new light for him. Whether he'll be able to be introspective enough to actually change the way he thinks, only time will tell.
Alar's doing well, thank you for asking. :>) Legolas and Daeron were off after evening meal to go to his cottage to play 'Dragons and Wizards'. The younger guys realized while on the games that Alar really did need some friends and they like him. They've been wrapped up in their lives...and they had each other...and hadn't considered extending their friendship to Alar outside of training. I think Alar will always be a closer friend now.
I laughed as I read what you said about Seregon alternating between amusement and seriousness. That's true. He still sees Aldamir was sort of his test case for this love business, but he truly does want to see his cousin happy. He's far enough removed to see that Aldamir and Elenna love each other and he can't see any reason why the two dufus love birds can work this out if they want. It helped that Seregon got to talk to Elenna and that reassured him that Elenna meant no harm to Aldamir. She made mistakes, but Seregon believes that she learned some important lessons. Of course, Aldamir was just mortified...again...to hear that his personal life was on display. He's sick and tired of being on the front page of the Mirkwood Inquirer. Being that he's a private person to start with and he struggles to remain so while in his position as commander, heir and son of the ruling couple, he's so embarrassed! Poor guy. All his self doubts come rolling out when he feels his privacy is compromised...again. Over all, he's been pretty confident, but everything that's happened in this story has tested his confidence. He's young and he's only been in command for about 40 years. He's still learning.
Thranduil and Lalaith have had time to think about Elenna and the spiders and they've had time to discuss it. They have a leg up on Aldamir in life experience and in having someone to act as a sounding board. By the time Aldamir got home, Thranduil did have time to get over his anger and look at the situation more objectively. As objectively as any parent could, I guess. Thranduil accepts his responsibilities to the realm with a grave seriousness, but he embraces his role as husband and father with the same fervor. I think it's asking too much of him to not take into consideration his love for his family at times. He has to. He's the only husband Lalaith has and the only father his sons have. It's a balancing act. This was one of those nice parallels you noticed! He and Aldamir and Legolas were struggling with the same issue, just different arenas.
The cook! You know how those creative types are! So sensitive. Lalaith doesn't mind indulging him and everyone finds the cook rather amusing. But you also know how most guys are: if it ain't moving, they'll eat it. All this foofy stuff means nothing to them. Well...I suppose as Elves, they can appreciate the beauty...to some degree. I see the cook as one of those fussy artsy types. A good guy, but sort of wrapped up in his art. Of course, it helps that his dishes are very tasty!
Despite Legolas and Daeron's view when they were smaller about their older brothers, they do idolize them. And they love their stuffy brothers very much. Legolas felt terrible that he had disappointed his brother and in the process, got an official reprimand from him. On some level, he recognized how hard it was for Aldamir to have to do this. But he's still struggling with the different roles all the members of his family plays, but he's working on it. Daeron felt bad too, but things roll off him a little easier than they do Legolas. There's humor in nearly all situations to him.
Erelas! He had his eye on a nice elleth at the feast. He was gone from home while all the stuff was going on about Aldamir and Elenna, so he's been a little in the dark about the whole thing. I doubt he's involved himself much in it. Besides, Seregon and the king and queen being in the thick of things was all Aldamir could handle! And since Erelas is on leave, he wasn't involved in the spider stuff at home either. I'm sure he knows all about everything, but he really didn't have anything to say on either matter. He's been sort of an interested observer. We do need to get to know him better. I'll see what I can do.
I'm glad that the scene with Elenna worked for you. Another fine line to tread. I wanted them to move toward reconciliation but not make any commitments. They both made mistakes and if this relationship is to work, then they need to be sure that they won't repeat the same ones. Of course, they'll find new blunders to execute as they go along. But for now, they need some space before they try to start again.
Sordien is a good guy, but he's like many truly kindhearted people; he got caught between the devil and the deep blue sea because he let his heart rule his good sense in this instance. As a rule, I think he's a good decision maker. Evidence of that is that he's a good village leader, but I don't know that he'd been put in such a situation as Calendon put him in before and like his daughter, he made some bad decisions. I think he'll be fine.
Thank you so much, Dot!
Karen
daw the minstrel
· 21 April 2005
· Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen: Aldamir
Wow. I am deeply grateful that I'm not being sent to Aldamir's office to hear him tell me exactly what I did wrong and what will happen if I ever do it again. My department chair is much less scary!
And Aldamir is such a get-right-down-to-business sort of guy. Seregon welcomes him home and he says, "Thanks, now what's this note about?"
Is a horse pie anything like a cow pie? LOL. Sorry. Yes, I am 12, since you ask.
That twist with the spiders really did draw together Aldamir's private business and that of the realm. Poor guy. No wonder he feels exposed. But Thranduil is such a good adar! I loved his memories of Aldamir as a baby and also the story of Aldamir and his horse.
The scene between Aldamir and Legolas was also nice. Legolas is such a sweetie! But then you already knew I thought that. And then Aldamir muses on his duty during his walk. He is quite a guy. I think I might be in love! But no, he and Elenna are right for one another.
Is this story done now? I've enjoyed every word of it. And I'm just blown away by how well you handle this changing first person POV.
Author's reply
No need to worry. Not even the commander would take on her dawness!
Aldamir was a get-to-the-point kind of guy with Seregon in this chapter. He knew something was going on, and he wanted to know what it was. He wasn't quite expecting to hear what he heard though. Everywhere he turned, Elenna showed up in the conversation. He did indeed feel exposed. How embarrassing to know that your private life is hanging out there like laundry for everyone to see.
Cow pie/horse pie? Umm.m.m. Yep, they're different. :>) In my mind, I see the cook as being pretty good as this sort of thing and the horse shaped pie was probably very well done. I think he'd be insulted if he heard you call it a cow patty.:>)
Legolas is a sweetie! He felt terrible about how he behaved and as a brother, I think he needed to make amends with his older brother. He's still struggling with all the different hats everyone in his family wears. I'm not sure that he can tell accurately when the roles switch. Tough call for anyone, I would think.
Aldamir is devoted to his land and his people. His love for his home is what makes him work so hard to try and keep it safe. He's honored to hear of your affection and offers his in return. Ah, he's picked you a red flower. Elenna hasn't even gotten one of those from him yet. But in the end, I'm afraid she'll probably be the one who gets him!
Still a little to wrap up. Probably only one more chapter. This story is starting feel like the story that would never end! Thanks so much for your kind words. I've enjoyed the changing voices. It's been quite a challenge. I'm glad that it seems to work.
Thanks again, daw!
Karen
Poor Aldamir. He's a warrior. He's really not equipped to deal with emotion. But he did well. With the support of Adar and Naneth and reassurance from Seregon - he was prepared to stretch out a hand towards Elenna. And she was subdued enough, poor elleth, in her conviction that she had lost the perfect elf. (Young people! I don't know: poor old Thranduil and Mrs Thranduil are no doubt just sitting back and shaking their heads. And Aldamir and Seregon would never believe that they've all been through the same angst.)
The novice-reproaching exercise would probably have been left in the hands of the novice masters, had Legolas and Daeron not been younger brothers of the troop commander and his second - and had Belas not mouthed off about Aldamir. However, distressed as Legolas and Daeron are by being reamed by the troop commander, their reaction is probably nothing compared to that of Belas, who not only has to spend hours in Aldamir's company, but also has to spend an additional year undergoing attitude correction.
Mind you, even being royalty doesn't protect you from the ambition of the cook! Let's think - he's done river and meadow and had them eating apple trees - what could be next? Perhaps something to celebrate the House of Oropher. A statue of Thranduil, constructed in spun sugar, served with lime-flower sorbet, perhaps. With biscuits shaped like the three royal sons. Treason to eat: treason to reject.
A lovely chapter, pointing towards reconciliation, which I intend to re-read immediately. I want to feel Aldamir's uncertainty and relief - and caution. And keep my fingers crossed that these star-crossed elves can show rather more gumption than Romeo and Juliet. (Because, apart from anyone else, their parents are much more sensible.)
Author's reply
Aldamir really isn't equipped with the emotional barometer needed to deal with love affairs gone bad. And as Thranduil pointed out to him earlier, he's inexperienced in such matters. The guy's had his nose to the grindstone and hadn't tested the 'love' waters before. Boy, his first dip nearly turned into a drowning. Fortunately, Elenna was sincere and he felt it. That gave him the nudge he needed.
The masters would have handled the novice problems if things had just been confined to a fist fight. The stakes were upped when the spiders showed up and of course, Belas's mouthing off. And there was the fact that the commander heard and saw the whole thing. All these things combined made the commander's involvement necessary. For Belas, the humiliation of not being able to pledge his faith to the king with his class was the worst thing that could have happened to him short of being dismissed altogether. And if the kid doesn't get it together, then he will be dismissed. Belas does want to be a warrior. Only time will tell if he wants that more than he wants to be a jerk.
A statue of Thranduil? LOL! That would be a work of art...or something. Your description actually made it sound pretty good. I could go for some lime sorbet!
Thanks so much for the review. I wanted to see the unhappy couple happy, but I think they need a little time to get their heads screwed on straight.
Karen
That was very well done, the scene between Aldamir and Elenna. They were both very calm and were guided by reason rather than emotion. But Thranduil is right in that they both need more time to reconsider their relationship. I hope Aldamir takes that advice to heart, especially since they are now both given a second chance.
So Belas got his punishment after all. He should consider himself lucky that he got off as lightly as he did. It must not be easy for Aldamir, as the commander, to deal with Legolas and Daeron. It must be near impossible to completely cut himself off as their brother and cousin. I don't envy these Royal Family members at all! And like Aldamir said to Legolas, they all live in a fishbowl for the entire world to watch and criticize.
Thank you for another wonderful chapter!
Author's reply
Hi!
I'm so pleased that you liked this chapter. Aldamir and Elenna have some major issues to work through for this relationship to work, but being as they're elves, they've got time! And they do need to step back and take a deep breath. They moved way too fast to start with and now have the time to do things right. They do love one another. But they don't know that much about each other yet. The notion that all you need is love is romantic, but in the long run, it's really not enough. Compatibility issues are always going to turn up eventually. They need to be sure that they're on the same page before they take the next step.
I couldn't decide if Belas should simply be dismissed or if Aldamir should give him another chance. Since second chances were the rule for that day, I decided to give him another one.
Being commander of your own family members would be tough. I think you're right that it would impossible for your relationships to not influence your decisions, but Aldamir is trying to treat everyone fairly. And if could be deadly for his brothers and cousins if he didn't demand the same from them as he does from others.
Thanks, Manderly, for reading and reviewing.
Short note on Thranduil's Lethal Control - the way you wrote him reminded me of a big, angry lion prowling in a circle around his prey, tail lashing back and forth, teeth bared, eyes narrowed...right before he POUNCES! Only you managed to restrain him! *bows before THE Karenator*
linda
Author's reply
LOL! I love this description of Thranduil. He is a big, powerful, 'blonde' lion. He's so nice to look at that he's deceptive! Like a beautiful lion that's too far away to swat you. I'm so relieved that the king came across this way. He was circling Calith like the slug was his prey. I guess Calith was dessert after feasting on the village leaders! :>)
Thanks so much for this note. You've made my day!
Karen
Well, I was reading through the reviews for Elenna's chapter, snickering at the snort of vodka (and your reply) when I suddenly realized I hadn't reviewed it yet! *smacks head* And this was a really cool chapter, too. Perhaps I was waiting for the vodka...then, again, maybe not - you don't know what one drink does to me. This really wouldn't make sense then! :-0
Very good chapter, Karen. You succeeded in making me actually feel a little compassion for Elenna...and you showed the girl wasn't a complete coward (she really SHOULD have told Aldamir earlier!). Anyone who can tell this wild story about freaky breeding of deadly spiders to the King, right after he has watched his beloved youngest suffer so from the bite of one of said spiders has got to have some courage! It's a shame she allowed her temper to prevent the truth from coming out the night before.
I'm glad she finally came to her senses after that sense-less argument with Aldamir. And the way you showed her kicking and throwing everything around the next morning was great...that was one ticked off elleth. Of course, if I had just sent a gorgeous elven Prince on his way, only to find out later I had been out and out lied to about him...well, I guess I'd be throwing things, too, and probably not just nightgowns! LOL
The long, anguished talk with Seregon was very well done (and I found myself really appreciating Seregon more and more for his understanding, compassionate attitude). The confrontation with the King was outstanding - he is SOOOOO scary in full temper, isn't he? *shivers dramatically*
I felt even sorrier for the poor elleth as she thinks her chance with Aldamir is completely over, she's lost her life-long friend (who turned out not to be a friend at all) and she had to betray her Adar and get him in trouble. Some days it just doesn't pay to get up in the morning!
Calith - what a piece of work! I'm sure he'll be just like the proverbial bad penny and keep showing up until Tree falls on him, or something! ;-)
Great chapter! I hope the next comes soon before poor Elenna leaves with her Adar (course, he has to wait for the Thranduil Escort Service!)
linda
Author's reply
No vodka? Well, let's see...maybe a nice Shirley Temple for you then.
I'm glad you felt a little sympathy for the poor elleth. We all do really dumb things from time to time and this was her time. She made a mistake in where she placed her trust. Too much stuff was going on. She was trying to do as her father asked, trying to sort out her feelings about this surprise romance and then trying to deal with a kick in the teeth when Calith told her that Aldamir was the Don Juan of Mirkwood. To put the cherry on top, Legolas was bitten and she was eaten up with guilt. What's an elleth to do? She made some bad decisions. But I'll give it to her too that she found her courage and did what the old geezers from the villages should have done to start with. I would have had a hard time snitching on my father too, especially if he had told me specifically that he didn't want me involved. Telling the king about the spiders was very hard for her to do.
And the fight with Aldamir. When she got a little distance from the emotions of the moment, she realized that she had screwed up worse than Martha Stewart. Yep, she was ready to knock some heads. I'm sorry Calith wasn't around that morning; he would have been good for target practice.
Seregon was a little wary at first, but he quickly saw how hard coming forward was for Elenna. He did his best to make the experience as painless as possible...though it was still pretty painful for her.
I like Thranduil when he's in full ruler mode, but I think it's hard to write. I can see him and hear him, but getting it translate into written word is a little harder...for me, anyway. I'm glad he came across as scary. I was aiming for something like a lethal control.
Calith is such a jerk! Who knows what the slug will do next? But I have the feeling that he won't just go away.
I'm working on getting the next chapter ready. Soon, I hope.
Thank you so much for reading and reviewing. You always brighten my day!
Karen
daw the minstrel
· 16 April 2005
· Chapter 13: Chapter Thirteen: Elenna
I really liked this chapter, Karen. I liked hearing from Elenna and I thought what you did drew several threads of your story together.
In my opinion, Seregon was right when he said that those who bred the spiders were going to find Thranduil much scarier than the spiders! Go, Woodland King! And Seregon's reluctance to be the one to tell the king might have as much to do with not wanting to be in the room when Thranduil goes ballistic as it does with not wanting to tell tales on Elenna.
Seregon is actually really bold to ask her about her love affairs. He must really be worried about Aldamir.
You did a nice job of showing Elenna's fear as Seregon takes her to see Thranduil. I'd be shaking in my shoes too. And yet terrible as that was, I think it would be worse to be in the room while Thranduil goes after the village leaders because of what she told him. It was very kind of the king to let her be elsewhere, and yet she (and we) still get to see it. And even then, poor Elenna. The scene with Calith was awful. And I'd say he doesn't seem to have learned his lesson. He's trouble still waiting to happen.
And finally, I'd like to explain how I know about spider breeding, lest I sound kind of -- well -- strange. I looked it up in Wikipedia, which turned out to be full of some rather appalling information about the mating habits of spiders.
Author's reply
Welcome home! We missed you!
I'm pleased that you enjoyed Elenna's POV. I don't know that I would have tackled her if you hadn't encouraged me to do so.
Thranduil in full king mode would be a bit frightening, I think. He was not happy. I agree that Seregon didn't look forward to being in the same room as the king when he finally got his hands on the villagers. And I think he was also sorry that Elenna's part in all this was just going to make things harder for her and Aldamir. It was just a crappy situation all the way around. But he had no choice in the matter; he had to tell the king.
Seregon was bold to ask Elenna about her personal life, but I think he was just so floored by everything that had happened that he needed some understanding about why things happened the way they did. He, after all, had encouraged Aldamir. Seregon had truly believed that Elenna loved Aldamir. And you're right about his concern for Aldamir.
As brave as Elenna was trying to be, she understood that there were going to be some serious repercussions for what the villagers had done and for no one coming forward...including herself. Thranduil, fortunately, was wise enough to place the blame where it belonged. He wanted the villagers to come clean without Elenna having to be brought in to testify against her own father. When Calith was hauled up before the king, Elenna nearly fainted. She didn't think things could get any worse, but of course, they always can. Calith is a worm and he did his best to save his own rear, but the king's not dumb and Calith's excuses were pathetic. Calith has spent more years than the average human's lifetime trying to snag Elenna. He's most angry that everything has gone to pot. He'd be happily betrothed to Elenna if Aldamir hadn't come along.
Shoot, daw, I didn't go into the Wikipedia stuff because I thought you were just all-round smarter than the average bear. :>) I didn't think you sounded strange at all, merely well informed and educated. And yes, the mating habits of spiders were appalling. You'll note that I skipped most of that information.
Thanks so much for all your help on this chapter and for just being you.
Karen
I wonder if a little vodka would help my reviews. Might be worth a try. Too bad I don't have any! This story did have a very satisfying Perry Mason finale to it, for one that didn't start out as a mystery! And poor Elenna wouldn't be the first person to hopelessly screw up the best thing that ever happened to her. Calith is a manipulative SOB. I just hope Aldamir gives her a second chance. Seregon will try to convince him to, I'm sure! I really liked Elenna's view of Seregon. It's always kind of interesting to take a character that we know very well and see him through new eyes. Not that it mattered through whose eyes we were seeing Thranduil - he of the great throbbing vein would be just as terrifying. Except to Calith, of course. Who, like most psychopaths refuses to acknowledge when he's been bested. I am intrigued by the Aldamir-Elenna situation. How much healing can they accomplish without a long cooling-off period?
Author's reply
I think a snort of vodka should be required before reading anything I've written. :>) Good thing you don't have any on hand or we might have to send in the 'Rescue Rangers'.
Perry Mason, huh? I suppose the scribe could be Della Street and Paul is played by Seregon. Oh dang it! You woke up Chandler's dog.
Elenna did screw up everything and feels pretty darn bad about it. She and Aldamir will have to work this out one way or another. She's still in the main village, so maybe this will be his chance to track her as Seregon suggested back in one of the earlier chapters.
I'm glad you liked Elenna's view of Seregon. It was interesting to me to see him without Aldamir. We've seen very little of him interacting with anyone other than Aldamir...and Tree. And he could see how much Elenna was hurting and how much courage it took for her to come forward.
Yes, King Throbbing-vein was most upset. He got on a roll and cleaned house while he was at it. Calith is dumber than a load of warg do. He should have known better than to show his face anywhere near the king. Even caught red-handed, he still tried to wiggle out of it. It's in the psychopath rule book: Blame the guy who is not there to defend himself.
I think the love entanglements will need a little distance for a while. Like Thranduil told Aldamir way back when, if it is meant to be, then the relationship will survive the time needed to see if it will fly.
Thanks for all your help and for taking the time to review. You're a good egg!
Karen
Oh, Thranduil is just brilliant in this chapter. :-D I worry about what Calith might do, though. :-/
Author's reply
LOL! The king takes a bow. Thranduil was pretty ticked off by the time the villagers were hauled into court. And he was just amazed at the stupidity of everyone involved. Calith was in the wrong place at the wrong time. But since the opportunity presented itself to the king, he took advantage of it. Calith is a sly rat. Who knows what he'll do next? But he's got Tree breathing down his neck at the moment. That should hold him in check for a while anyway.
Thanks, Karri!
Karen
French Pony
· 13 April 2005
· Chapter 13: Chapter Thirteen: Elenna
A new perspective! Suddenly, the plot twists, and much is revealed!
A genetic experiment gone wrong and then escaped? An Elvish Frankenstein? How interesting. I'll have to think about this one for a bit. On the one hand, there's something very 1950s B-movie-ish about the whole situation (there are bits where you can just hear the theremin in the background). On the other hand, you do explain it very well, how the Elves got the idea to do a little genetic tinkering, and how they kept going just a little farther until it was suddenly too far. I think I'll wait until after the effects of all the vodka and Tabasco I had with dinner wear off and then think about the implications of this some more.
“The fools!” he spat out. “What manner of Elf would be so mad as to tamper with nature?”
*cough*Fëanor*cough*
Oh, do pardon me. I seem to have caught a touch of the Mirkwood two-step. I'm sure I'll be fine in a few days, thank you.
Elenna did the right thing in talking to Seregon. Of all the riled-up young males who've been running around this story so far, Seregon has been the calmest and most rational. I think it was good practice for her to tell her story about herself and Calith to Seregon, kind of get a trial run and some feedback before she tells it to Aldamir. And Seregon has a very reassuring way about him, even when he's in Take Charge mode.
Thranduil, of course, has gone from zero to Smackdown. He gives no quarter, but he's still clever and calculating, for which I'm sure we are all eternally grateful. See if the Elves ever try to breed anything ever again. Thranduil was impressive, yes he was.
Author's reply
LOL! An Elvish Frankenstein! The orcs might be more Shelley than the spiders, but they are running a close second. I had to look up what a theremin is, but I have to say that I agree with you; it would be an appropriate sound track. In a dark cave somewhere in the western woods of Mirkwood, bubbling beakers and sizzling currents cut the dank air.... Oh, I love it! B-horror films!
I'm glad you found my 'experiment' well explained. The villagers meant well, but like you said, they just didn't know when to quit. The spiders they were breeding weren't able to reproduce consistently, so they just kept adding more and more of the black spiders'...er...fluid to the mix and wah-lah...oops! They ended up with more than they bargained for. Vodka and Tabasco, huh? I think that this combination might actually help the reading of my stories. LOL! Sounds like you had a fun evening indeed! I'm just sorry that I missed it.
Fëanor? Oh, don't be silly! Thranduil doesn't even think about those Noldo upstarts! :>) But I'm sure the king would have thought that Fëanor and his sons served as a terrible warning...and his villagers didn't heed this obvious warning when they got into their laboratory. I hear that theremin again!
Seregon is the calmest guy in the joint at the moment. He doesn't have the emotional investment that Aldamir has and therefore, could really hear what Elenna was saying. Running the story by him first was a good practice run and Seregon was understanding and supportive. He can see that Elenna and Aldamir care deeply for one another. He's got the most objective view in the palace. Even though he knew the ramifications of what Elenna was telling him about the spiders, he could also see how frightened she was. He came through to help her do what she needed to do.
The king was in good form. He was angry and really didn't care much one way or the other what everyone's excuses were. As far as he could see, the villagers should have had better sense and Calith was not worth the time of day. The lot of them were fortunate that he didn't send them all to the nice locked room in the lower caverns.
Thanks, French Pony! I really appreciate you taking the time to read and review.
Karen
First off, because I forget every time I review, I just wanted to thank you for your review replies. I’m amazed at how much thought you put into them. They must take you so long. I’d never want you to think that I, or anyone else, expect you to go to so much trouble, but I just love hearing from you too – so, thanks :-)
So, it’s Elenna’s turn, eh? Was that your attempt to make us forgive her for hurting poor Aldamir? O.k., it worked…
I loved this right from the opening sentence! Now there’s a girl in a mood! I was a bit puzzled by her dreams about spiders until I suddenly realised that maybe she knew something about those red-banded ones… and nearly fell off my seat in excitement…
Aaaaw, she still has the flower! Wasn’t there one for forgiveness? White maybe? Anyway, she needs to go pick one of those and deliver it to a certain troop commander quick smart. I really have to admire her, though, for finally summoning up the courage and doing what was right, even though it must have been so difficult for her.
“I am afraid he will not be back until tomorrow or possibly even the day after. He is in the field.” What? Is that elf ever at home when you want him?? Yay that she went to Seregon! I was so afraid that she’d back out at that stage. I don’t know if I’ve mentioned it before, but I really like Seregon…;-) I’m guessing the last thing he expected to hear from her was that she knew where the red-banded spiders came from! And wow, what a tale she had to tell! I just knew there was more to the spider story and to the whole thing about Sordien having a secret. I even suspected the elves in the village could be involved. But then when nothing happened when the warriors were sent to get rid of them, I dismissed the idea. I’d never have guessed all this, though. This Calendon sounds like a bit of a mad scientist. You (and apparently daw and meckinock) know waaaay too much about spider-breeding… Yuck.
Bravo for Seregon being able to set his temper aside and see how difficult this is for Elenna, as well as letting her know that there’s still a chance that she can fix things with Aldamir. He seems genuinely curious about how she could give herself to Calith. And it sounds like she’s thought it all through since the yelling match with Aldamir.
“Thranduil wore a mithril crown interwoven with summer greenery and a scattering of tiny golden flowers. The deep green and brown of his silken formal robes seemed to proclaim his strength as surely as did the cool eyes that he settled upon us when we approached.” What a wonderful description! Mmmm. That image is definitely being filed away in my brain to be pulled out when I’m safely tucked in my bed tonight.
Thranduil must have been horrified to hear what they were doing. I loved the elfy reaction, though, of disgust at the thought of “tampering with nature”. He was wonderfully angry when dealing with Calendon. I wonder if he would have been as outraged if Legolas had not suffered as a result of their actions. I guess he would, though. They still endangered people’s lives. I actually don’t know what to make of Calendon. He seemed to accept Thranduil’s judgement calmly enough. I felt worse for Sordien. I mean, I was glad for him that it was out in the open because it sounds like that’s all he wanted, but my heart went out to him when Thranduil spoke of the suffering of children because of their silence just as much as what they did.
Did Calith just turn up in the Hall? Ouch. That was a mistake. I get the impression the king had decided not to say anything to him, but now he’s presented the opportunity himself. The fool kept digging himself in deeper and deeper. Blaming nameless warriors is so not the way to go. I thought Thranduil was actually quite lenient with him! If the “subtle tone of anger in Calith’s voice” is any suggestion of what’s to come, Thranduil may wish he’d banished him entirely. At least Tree can keep him away from Elenna by the sounds of things.
I just loved that moment between Elenna and Sordien. You did a marvellous job throughout this chapter with Elenna. I really felt just how hard this was for her, her regret that she hadn’t done anything sooner, her despair that it’s all too late for her and Aldamir, and her desperate wish to just make things right. Alright, I take back anything nasty I may have said about her.
*looks around* Is Aldamir home yet??! :-)
Author's reply
Thank you, Dot. I'm always grateful for the reviews people leave, and I'm just naturally yakky, I guess. :>) You put so much into your reviews that I can't help myself!
Well, I don't know that I aimed to make you feel bad for Elenna, but if it worked.... I wasn't sure that I wanted to get into her head, but after expert advice and a lot of thought, I decided that she did have a perspective that I couldn't get from anyone else. I had an idea about what was going on with her, but until I actually tried to 'think' like her, I wasn't sure exactly what would come out. So yep, she was in a 'mood'. No sleep, no boyfriend, no self respect...the morning started out pretty bad. I think she started out being angry with herself and then when she decided to tell the spider story, and things were set into motion, she found herself really quite afraid. A lot of courage was needed to get her to take that first step out her aunt's cottage door.
Yes, she still has the flower...pressed in a book of poetry! How girly is that? And you're right; the white flower is for forgiveness. But the red is for love. I don't know which one she'd give Aldamir...maybe both. Wonder if Aldamir thought to keep his? Knowing guys, I'd guess not, but I'll have to ask him.
When Aldamir wasn't there, she did have a moment of thinking she'd just forget the whole thing. But once the disappointment and shock of him not being available passed, she kept on going. Seregon actually handled this better than Aldamir would have, I think. Aldamir would have had a harder time offering her support at that point. Seregon wasn't sure at first what was up, but as soon as he saw that she was sincere and frightened, his heart went out to her. She really had gotten caught in intrigues that were not her doing. But...Calith was another story. Seregon was also the best one to pour all that mess out to. He could lend a sympathetic ear and still do his job.
Thranduil did look nice in his kingly duds, didn't he? Of course, this was not the first time Elenna had seen the king, but it was the first time she had seen the king being the king. I imagine it's a whole 'nuther can of worms when he's seated on the throne than it is when he's out on the Green eating BBQ. The whole court scene was almost too much for her.
Elenna also got to see the king in full wrath. He was indeed angry. That's a good question about whether he would have reacted differently if Legolas had not been bitten. I think he'd have still been very angry, but possibly it might have been somewhat muted. He'd just sat at his son's bedside and all that was still pretty fresh in his mind. I'd say that this influenced his anger...especially the part about not knowing if his son could be saved. Yep, he was mad.
Calith, the dork, did just turn up. Thranduil had decided to have Tree to talk to him, but when the worm followed the rest of the delegates from the villages into the Hall to see what was up, Thranduil just killed two birds with one stone. The king was angry and he was on a roll. And there was Calith. If Aldamir had been there, I don't think he would have called Calith forward, but the time was right. He exposed Calith's lies to everyone.
Calith was not happy either by the end. If he's capable of manipulating people and telling lies as easily as he breathes, then who knows what else he's capable of doing? Of course, that's if Tree doesn't dismember him or something first.
Seregon did handle the situation well. Elenna needed his support, or I don't know that she would have made it through the mess in one piece.
I'm so pleased that you understood where Elenna was emotionally. And Elenna is very grateful to you for giving her a second chance!
Aldamir will be home soon! Won't he be surprised?
Thank you so much, Dot. I really appreciate the time you took to read and review.
Karen
Whew! What a chapter! Very satisfying! I was cheering Thranduil all the way. He was simply magnificent - the way he dealt with Calendon and especially the way he dealt with Calith. Calith either is very arrogant or he is a total twit to think that he could still continue his lies even in front of the king. I don't think the scope of his offence has sunk in yet for him, and probably never will. What a total waste of an elf!
As for Elenna - well, I still find it hard to feel sympathy for her. She was a total fool. Does this settlement of hers specialize in stupid elves? Seems to be to be a fair amount of stupidity going on in that place, Calendon, the healers and their breeding experiments, Calith and Elenna (yes, I have to include her).
Is this the last chapter? I certainly hope not! I am really enjoying this tale and hope there's more to come.
Author's reply
I'm so glad that you liked this chapter and that you found it exciting. Yes siree, Calith is a twit! He's a scheming conniving twit! I don't think he was so much interested in perpetuating his lies as much as he was simply trying to save his own rear end. And it needed saving; Thranduil was furious.
Yeah...no sympathy for the poor Elenna. :>) She did behave foolishly. But I have to give her brownie points for doing what she knew was right. She was caught between a rock and a hard place. She wanted to honor her father's desire for her to stay out of what he knew was going to blow up in their faces at some point, and she wanted to do the right thing. It was a tough decision. She had made a mistake. Her adar had made a mistake. Calendon showed poor leadership abilities in his desire to help the healers do something he thought would aid everyone. He should have stopped the experiments. Everything just went to pot! And everyone panicked. You know what 'they' say about the road to hell.... I don't have any excuses for Calith...he's just a twit.
No, this isn't the last chapter. There are a couple more to go. Two, I think.
Thanks so much for reading and reviewing. Your reviews are always a bright spot for me. Thanks again!
Karen
What better way to boost sympathy for poor Elenna than to put her at the centre of the action!
She was in such a state at the beginning - nothing was going right for her and even the birds were driving the poor elleth to the edge. I'm glad she decided to try to put things right - even if that meant marching into the lion's mouth. It's probably as well that she had two reasons to make the attempt - one supported the other to get her through that door.
And Seregon! What a love! Normally he just is second-in-command / sidekick - but he was just perfect and so adorable. If she hadn't already fallen for Aldamir's charms, he surely would have proved irresistible. And so organised and supportive. Elenna would have fallen apart without him. And even the aides - who probably are aware of everything that has happened - were being pleasant to her and helping her.
What a story, too! Selective breeding of spiders - well, I wouldn't want to be involved, and I can understand the king's wrath and horror. After all, spiders are icky. But I'll just bet he selectively breeds his horses to get the best and fastest offspring. And dogs. If they have dogs. (Turns out not to have been such a bad thing, actually. The red-banded spiders ate the black ones, so that the warriors were able to thin their numbers still further.)
I suppose the biggest element of stupidity was in trying to hide their escape. If they'd fessed up at that point, they might have stopped the king going ballistic. Even if they'd confessed on arrival, perhaps. But once Legolas had been bitten, there wasn't much prospect of a happy revelation here.
What a complete moron Calith is, though. Doesn't know when to back down and grovel. That touch of anger is worrying - he'll be coming out the woodwork later, I'm sure of it. Like a red-banded spider.
I hope to see a bit of rapprochement between our two love-birds coming. And perhaps it would be sensible if Elenna were to stay with her aunt for a century or two - although unfortunately I'll think better of her for going home with her foolish old adar. (Is this aunt any relation to Tree or is that the other side of the family?) And I look forward to a certain Tree falling on Calith.
Author's reply
I was hesitant to use Elenna's POV, but she had a perspective that no one else had. Going into the lion's mouth is right! She knew what she should have done and what she needed to do, but it wasn't an easy decision. And even when doing the right thing, she still felt like a traitor.
Seregon really came through in this chapter. He was slightly wary at first when Elenna came to his office, but he's a good judge of character. When he saw how sincere and upset Elenna was, he was supportive. Besides, he's not dumb; he figures this elleth is most likely still going to end up as cousin's wife. Said cousin is also his commander. :>) But his heart did genuinely go out to her. This was hard for her and he knew it.
I'm sure there was a lot of selective breeding going on with domesticated animals--though I didn't really think about that. Somehow...that seems...different to me. You can't ride a giant spider or teach it to retrieve. Nope...don't think I'd want to breed spiders. Yuk! :>) You're right; the bad red-banded spiders did inadvertently turn out to be help with the bad black spiders. But still.... *gross*.
The king would not have been any happier about the spiders if he had heard the story earlier, and I don't know that it would have made any difference in locating the spiders, but the novices would never have been allowed to go out. Yep, once the novices were attacked and Legolas was bitten, the king was ripe for a picking. If Calendon wasn't sure if he should tell the king, that probably made up his mind; he wasn't saying a word!
Calith is a dolt! He was scared--Thranduil has the effect on people--but he couldn't see any reason to not still try to cover his butt. I doubt Thranduil even noted the subtle anger in Calith's reply. The king was too angry himself. But Elenna knows him well enough to pick it up. He'll probably show back up someday.
Aldamir will be home soon. He'll have some weighty decisions to make. Both of them will. We'll see what happens when they're put in the same room again.
I love your line about Tree! I hadn't really given it much thought because some unnamed warriors was all I needed to see the old boy out the main village, but now that you mention it, I think that Tree probably escorted the worm himself. :>)
Thanks, Bodkin! As usual, your review was fun and insightful.
Karen
oh my, Oh My, OH MY! When Elenna got marching up towards the palace, things got such a pace I’m still short of breathing! She was brave; I’ll concede her that. I'd had been frightened, too, had I been brought in front of Thranduil with such a tale! Jurassic Greenwood! Heavens! What were they thinking! The king’s been way too merciful,(and mighty in his wrath! did his vein throb properly? I love this irate Thranduil ;-)) although the doom of endless reporting that he laid upon those healers is harder than it might seem at first glance!
I liked that you chose to show us her point of view, poor girl for once, this was overwhelming! A day in the life of Elenna? No thanks! And Seregon did behave, as usual, he’s been great the whole chapter! Glad that you gave him this chance to round his “meddling” in his cousin’s personal life. Now let’s start finding him a life of his own! Elenna says she has a sister… ;-)
I miss Daeron. But since I think we haven’t heard the last of Calith, I hope the spy kids will have a last chance to wave him goodbye properly…
Terrific, Karen, I’m still shocked by it all!;-)
Author's reply
Elenna was a brave girl here. She knew what the right to do was, but doing it was an entirely different matter. Even though it was hard, she came through in the end.
Thranduil managed to hold it together and not spark another kinslaying, but he sure did want to spank the ignorant fools! He was pretty merciful. However, he did point out that he would not be again.
Endless reports. I feel sorry for the poor healer he appoints as Surgeon General. The only thing that the detailed record keeping will do is let the healers know that they're suffering their punishment and that the king is keeping an eye on them. Having done my share of these government mandated medical evaluations, I'm in complete agreement with you that they're not worth the paper they're printed on.
Seregon was shocked to find Elenna in his office, but he hung in there. He was a little wary at first, but when he saw how hard it was for her to come to him, he softened up and tried to be supportive. He's probably not finished meddling yet though. :>) He does need a nice elleth of his own, doesn't he? But not Elenna's sister. Elenna's mother is home because said sister is expecting a baby. The king would surely frown on that!
Daeron misses you too. He's busy though...still polishing those practice swords.
Thanks so much for reading and reviewing.
Karen
Oh I am so glad we got to see a chapter that was Elenna's POV! I loved the beginning. Her frustration with the world was absolutely palpable. You did a wonderful job showing that. You also did a great job showing her building up to the decision to reveal all while still not certain she can. It is a heck of a brave thing to run that gauntlet of guards and other obstacles to find that Aldamir is not there and still tell her story. Good for her.
And I liked the spider story. I really wondered if you'd tell us how the nasty little things came about and I'm glad you did.
Sorry for the fool that made them though. Thranduil was NOT pleased. You did such a good job with that scene. And then when he brought in Calith I was sitting in front of my computer screen in my office clapping with glee (my lab assistants already think I'm nutz so it's ok for me to do that). I just loved how Thranduil made him squirm.
I could hear the subtle tone of anger in Calith’s voice. Not good. Spiteful, angry and scheming elves are not good things. But, if it means we get to see Calith get more punishment in a later story it would suit me because something about this particular villain just makes my blood boil.
I know they can't just go back to where they were right away, but I really hope we get a little glimpse of Aldamir and Elenna together again before this ends.
I've really enjoyed this. There have been so many twists to it. I hope you have another in the works soon. (I know it's not over yet. I always start mourning the end of good stories early. Sorry.)
Author's reply
Yes, it did take Elenna a little while to work herself into enough of a tizzy to take the bull by the horns. She knew what the right thing to do was, but every time she nearly told Aldamir, something would hold her back. Finally, she was left with nothing to do but pull herself up by the bootstraps and get it over with.
I owe daw a debt of gratitude for helping me come up with some of the spider stuff. And then Meckinock helped me fine tune it. They were both a lot of help.
Thranduil was most upset with the dumb fools who thought they could outsmart nature...and him. Calendon isn't a bad guy, but he didn't come across as too bright in this case. When his healers started batting around this idea, if he had been the leader he should have been, he'd have nipped this idea in the bud right then. Bad decision. He ain't leading nuthin' no more.
Calith was asking for it and he got it. Though Thranduil had no plans to confront Calith at that moment, but when the worm showed up in court, Thranduil took advantage of the situation and took care of him too. The king was on a roll! Calith might show up again later, but I don't think it'll be until another story.
Aldamir will be back in a day or so. What a surprise will be waiting for him! We'll have to see how he'll react to what's happened and to the fact that Elenna is still there.
I have so many half-done outlines that it's pathetic. And it takes me forever to finally get a story together. I've got several ideas for what's next. Dunno yet.
Thanks so much for reading and reviewing. And Calith takes a bow at your applause. :>)
Karen
It was nice to read Elenna's POV. Poor girl -- you really captured her despair when she was talking up to the King. How frightening that would be to have to face Thranduil and admit deception like that, even though it wasn't hers, the feeling that she is betraying her father must have been torturous to her.
And Seregon ... I loved this speech of his:
“I know you are frightened and upset, but you have done the right thing,” he said kindly. “I do not know what the king thinks, but I can tell you that I understand how hard this was for you. You have risked much for the good of the realm. I do not believe that your courage will go unnoticed.”
I thought it was just what he needed to say to her then. And then her reaction
“I do not feel brave,” I whispered. “I feel terrible.”
I wanted Aldamir to run into the room and hug her and tell her all would be fine! I know, I know, you have to build up the suspense for that, but give the poor girl a break!
And it was so wonderful to see Calith have to face Thranduil ... and yet he still had the gall to try to worm his way out of it! I think I know a Dunedain woman who he might do well to team up with ;) BUT ...
“You do, my lord,” Calith said. I cringed. I could hear the subtle tone of anger in Calith’s voice. The inflection was small, but it was there.
I think we have not seen the last of Calith yet ... subtle tone of anger? Now what does that slimeball have up his sleeve?
Author's reply
Elenna sort of had to build up to the point of marching off to tell Aldamir the truth about everything she knew. If Calith had not shown up to start with, I think she would have told Aldamir sooner, but Calith threw a monkey wrench into that. It really did take some courage to face Aldamir after the fight, but then to have to tell him that she had been hiding things from him...well, that makes me sick to think about. For a moment, she almost felt thwarted again when Aldamir wasn't there, but as it turns out, I think Seregon was better equipped to handle the situation.
In the beginning, Seregon wasn't quite sure what he thought about her showing up in his office, but after seeing how upset she was, he caved. He did feel awful for her and tried to make the whole process as painless as possible. Though it did turn out to be quite an ordeal for her anyway.
Calith is a worm! Meckinock said he was like a Mirkwood Wormtongue. I found that high praise! :>) He's embarrassed, he's lost, and he's madder than a wet hen. I don't envy Elenna having to face him again at all. And I think you might be on to something: he and Titheniel would make quite a pair. :>) Calith will eventually show up again, but I don't think it'll be until another story.
Thanks for all your help...you're like my seeing eye dog. :>) I appreciate you taking the time to read and review.
Karen
This was a very interesting look inside Elenna's head. What she did took great courage - those loyalties are torn between the ones you love and doing what is right...and even doing what is right ends up making you feel like a traitor.
It is probably fortunate that Seregon was available and not Aldamir - otherwise we might not have seen Calith called on the carpet!
This was a good twist, though...the timing is such that you have the external conflict continuing with the internal conflict, and their resolutions are tied together. Very satisfying for the reader.
Oh, and spider sex? Spider sex stories will soon need their own awards category!
Author's reply
Poor Elenna was torn about what to do. She wanted to remain loyal to her father and she wanted to tell the truth. And what bad timing: just as she decided to come clean with Aldamir, Calith shows up!
I think you're right that it was a good thing that Aldamir was not home. Seregon could handle everything much better since he didn't have the emotional investment in the situation that Aldamir did. The king most likely would not have confronted Calith in court either if Aldamir had been present. As it was, Calith, being a nosey so and so, trailed along after the other delegates as they rallied and went to see what was up with the king. Thranduil had not planned to confront Calith...he didn't send for him...but when Calith showed up and Thranduil was on a roll, he decided to kill two birds with one stone.
Gee, do you think we could get a spider sex category? We could call it the 'spelf' category.
Thanks, Nilmandra. I truly appreciate you support.
Karen
Uh,uh, I'm sorry I'm so late for this...(mostly sorry for myself, this wonderful chapter was awaiting me while I... just..real-lived around in and off delayed planes...-arghhh) I'm afraid the water must have cooled down by now, and the wine -if it was ever served- must be awfully warm.. sigh! next time boys! I promise I'll join in...
I missed Thranduil at the bathing chamber scene (and Groucho Marx, too! it was priceless!;-)) It was good to see Erelas joining in the family traditions, and reporting to a commander-in-tub. Surely they're used to see each other bathing when in patrol, but back at home, a little privacy would be appreciated, it'd seem, hoho, bad luck!
Well, this week, when I tired of reading boring reports I took to thiking about Aldamir and Elenna's situation as if they were friends of mine (I'm starting to resemble Seregon, I'm frightening myself!) I was right that next chapter would be Aldamir's pov. And that was my only hit! See, I've settled for "love is blind". Now that Aldamir finds himself being bad guy in the neighbourhood, is he summoning home the whole western patrol to have them swear publicly that the commander has NEVER been seen in the company of maiden? Now, that would be fun indeeed ;-) The whole discussion was so tense, I really liked it. Love is blind.
Loved how the king and queen my lady showed their support, they're being more than understanding with the situation!(If this thing is going on, may I suggest the girl should serve a training period in Lorien under Galadriel's personal tuition just to learn how a princess must behave?) ;-)
Go on! please?
Author's reply
LOL! The guys will keep the water warm and the wine cool just for you. Nilmandra is the official royal towel holder, Dot is serving the wine, so...you can be the royal...back washer?
Aldamir was glad to hear that you were thinking about him. Have any suggestions? Other than shipping Elenna off to be tutored by Galadriel...which I might add, slightly offends Queen My Lady. He is considering recalling the western patrol and having them testify that they do not discuss his personal life. The never having been seen in the company of a maiden might be harder to squeeze out them. Love might be blind, but the queen ain't. She's got a good understanding of Elenna, but unfortunately, the two disenchanted love birds will have to work this out.
I'm glad that you liked the discussion. Like most arguments, it morphed into something no where near what the real issue was. Elenna's made a mistake in her estimation of Calith and isn't quite ready to admit it to herself or anyone else. She's not dense; she'll see the writing on the wall soon enough.
The king and queen were understanding. I suppose when you've lived as long as they have, you've seen it all. They knew the two love birds were young and making their own mistakes. All they could do was offer some advice and support and stand back. It might take a while for this to work out. Distance is a problem.
Thanks, Perelleth. I truly appreciate you hanging in there with me. I always enjoy your reviews.
Karen
Sorry this is late; I'm actually so fried I forgot I hadn't reviewed. I was thinking, "Gosh, Karen usually answers her reviews faster than this," and then it occurred to me to go double-check and make sure I'd left you one. Uh.
OK, this was the chapter where Aldamir can't even get a bath in peace. I loved that part. Reminds me of my job. I ran off and hid today so I could get a project done without being bothered and they found me anyway. Thank goodness I wasn't naked, though. On the other hand there was no Dorwinion, either. Actually on second thought I think I'd better review some other time when I'll make more sense. Like maybe August.
Author's reply
Poor ranger. You've already put in your time reading this...with red pen in hand. I've always thought that having to review this was above and beyond the call of duty anyway. I appreciate your help no matter what!
Tell the rangers at work that if they don't lay off bugging you, Halbarad has been practicing decent beheadings and he needs the practice. Aragorn and the sons of Elrond will be holding up cards with scores on them. Halbarad is going for a complete set of '10s'.
Take care and I'll have the Dorwinion breathing. Come August...and we shall gather on the porch!
Thanks!
Karen
Any room for one more at the gathering in the bathroom? I’ll volunteer to serve the wine.
There were so many great things in this chapter. I loved the entire scene in the Aldamir’s bathing chamber. I skimmed through this at work and hours later I’m still chuckling at Seregon’s line “I have seen you bathe before. Carry on.” So funny. You know, I’ve never understood how elves get their hair so clean when they rinse it in soapy water, but far be it from me to question it… Anyway, it was very clever of Seregon to corner Aldamir when he couldn’t escape. I love Seregon’s concern for Aldamir. He obviously realised that now matter how joyous this feast, it would be quite an ordeal for his cousin. Aldamir, of course, was showing remarkable (and frustrating) restraint. Seregon was right, though, in his assertion that the only way Aldamir could put it behind him was by talking to Elenna and finding out the truth of her feelings.
It’s great to see Erelas and Aldamir together at home. LOL at the thought of him reporting to a naked commander.
I felt so bad for Aldamir going into that sitting room. He knew something was up because of the suspicion behaviour of the other two, yet he had no idea that this was about him. And then to hear what Calith had been saying… Aldamir’s hurt and outrage were so painfully obvious. I thought it was an interesting moment when the depth of his anger and desire to act on it surprised even himself. I like Thranduil’s attempt to calmly remind Aldamir that the greatest problem is the fact that there are lies being spread that could affect how people view their king and his family, but poor Aldamir seemed to be barely struggling to see past his personal anger. Thank heavens for mothers.
I forgot that Erelas wouldn’t have known as much about Aldamir and Elenna. At least being able to tease his younger brother brought Aldamir out of his dark mood for a little while. And Amariel! She’s so adorable! Elenna is a fool if the sight of Aldamir dancing with this elfling in his arms didn’t make her melt.
I was quite surprised by Aldamir’s sudden courage in speaking to Elenna. But so glad that he finally did what Seregon has been urging him to do ever since it happened! It turns out he’s quite forceful too when he wants to be. I love the way he practically dragged her off for that walk. Nice move to take her back there too. Hmm. Elenna. I actually quite liked her until this chapter. Are you going to tell me to be more sympathetic towards her? Well, I understand that she’s known Calith all her life and I can see how it’s difficult to believe that a life-long friend has been lying to you and I know she has to learn to use and trust her ‘gift’… But I’m stunned by how willing she is to believe Calith and stand up for him and I’m shocked by how angry she is here and unprepared to even listen to Aldamir, let alone believe him. I’m beginning to think we’d get to the bottom of all this a bit quicker if the king did speak to Calith. I don’t know… something’s not right. Earlier in the story Elenna seemed to be quite comfortable with her ability to read people. She certainly managed to see Aldamir’s true personality, behind that of the commander, very quickly. And it sounded like she was going to sort things out so that she and Aldamir could be together. Whatever else she may be, she definitely didn’t come across as the simple, trusting maiden from a sheltered village that Calith sees her as, and that she seems to be now. And surely her parents would want something more than “silent consent.” Oh well, maybe I’m too suspicious. She probably does just need to see Calith’s true colours and take some time to establish trust and forgiveness between herself and Aldamir. Although, if she means everything she says, then really, he deserves better!
Aldamir probably could have handled it a bit better too but I thought he did fairly well, really. The poor guy clearly made the mistake of expecting a maiden to be rational about matters of the heart! He did much better with Calith. All credit is due to him for not smacking the pretty elf. I don’t think I’d have been as restrained. He was wonderfully intimidating, though. And surely he’s managed to at least show Elenna how certain he is that Calith’s words about him were all lies.
I particularly loved the ending, with Aldamir’s parents comforting and supporting him. The one thing that made me feel a little bit sorry for Elenna was Lalaith’s explanation about how Elenna does have strong feelings for Aldamir but is afraid of having the world she knows turned upside-down. Naneth is very wise about everything, and I love that her very presence seems to comfort Aldamir. Together with the strength and love that Thranduil provides, Aldamir should at least find some peace and healing this night.
Oops, I’ve talked too much. I’ll go to bed now, even though you’ve got me far too worked up to sleep! Maybe I’ll wake up with loads of sympathy for Elenna and hoping for wedding bells and elflings for her and Aldamir. You never know… ;-)
Author's reply
As it turns out, the position to serve wine in the bath chamber is open. Nilmandra is going to be the royal towel holder. You can serve the wine. :>)
Seregon is concerned about Aldamir having to attend this feast, knowing that he's going to see Elenna and the weasel. Seregon is supportive, but Aldamir is probably right that Seregon wants some revenge too. It's tough to see someone you care about hurt. Seregon wants to knock some heads himself.
Once again, Aldamir was caught off guard. He was NOT pleasantly surprised by the king's news. He shocked himself with how angry he got. He's usually fairly calm, but this was the icing on the cake. The lying worm! Calith's days were numbered as far as he was concerned. Yes, naneths are a good check and balance for angry sons. She knew Aldamir was on the verge of a kinslaying.
Erelas hasn't been around much, but it was nice to have him home for once. He didn't know about Elenna and all that had happened. He was simply picking up on his brother's foul mood. But he was there at the right time; he helped Aldamir release some of the tension that was eating him alive.
Amariel was the stimulus that prompted Aldamir to take the risk of talking to Elenna. He wanted what his guard has: family, little ones, the whole nine yards. In an instant, Aldamir had his answer about how to deal with Calith.
Poor Elenna. Got your dander up, did she? Well, she did make some huge mistakes in this conversation. But then, so did Aldamir. Elenna is gifted and she is pretty good with using it...when she's relaxed and focused. And she was focused on Aldamir when she 'read' him so well. Calith was the furthest thing from her mind when she met Aldamir. She didn't feel any real commitment to him. Calith caught her in a vulnerable moment and she actually was considering his proposition. Aldamir killed that thought. The argument went the way most fights go...south! They started out talking about what mattered and then ended up fighting over details that did not. Elenna wasn't so much defending Calith as she was herself. She was absolutely floored that she had fallen for Calith's lies. How could that happen? I mean, she's gifted, you know. But..there was too much emotion involved for her to see straight. So...she was defensive that she had allowed Calith to smooze her for so many years. She couldn't admit that to herself. If the conversation had not gotten so heated and she had not felt so threatened, then it would have turned out entirely different. But as she got defensive, so did Aldamir, and things went to pot. They came so close....both of them actually all but said the words that they loved the other, sort of buried in other context, but it's there.
Her parents are not in favor of her marrying Calith, but she's an adult and this was something so new that it would have to be dealt with when the villagers returned home. I'm not sure that Sordien even knew about it until the trip was underway and Elenna told him about the conversation that she and Calith had the night before they left. He knew he did not want Elenna to be involved with the worm, but the betrothal could have been a shock to him as well. Elenna not only had to see Calith's true colors, but come to grips with the fact that she had allowed this situation in one form or another. Unwittingly, but she didn't stop Calith in his tracks years ago. She felt sorry for him and since they were friends, she heard his deepest thoughts and thought that people simply didn't know who he really was. Well...Calith was manipulating her all along. When she realized this, she was mortified...with herself. She reacted.
Aldamir handled things fairly well. He goofed up the conversation with Elenna, but in the end, he let Calith know where he stood on the matter. And Elenna saw which of the two 'really' loved her. Aldamir was willing to let her go if that was what she wanted. Calith was not.
Naneth was wise. She could see that Elenna was battling her own demons at the moment and she felt certain that Elenna would master her pride and youth. The queen also has the advantage of being able to read the emotions of others. She sensed Elenna's love for Aldamir, her confusion and her defensiveness. She had a good understanding of what's going on. Hopefully, Aldamir gained some comfort from his parents' love and support.
You never talk too much! I enjoy your reviews so much. Reading them is such a pleasure. You're an astute reader!
Thanks so much for reading and reviewing. Not much more to come.
Karen
Darn yahoo email! I never got the notification that 'you'd got naked' and put up the latest chapter ;) I found it completely by accident.
What another powerful chapter -- filled with emotion that came through so clearly. Or maybe I'm just extra sensitive in picking up on vibes of anger and hurt today. *sigh*
I could just picture Aldamir when he heard the news of Calith's lies, and picture the hurt and anger that he felt. Same as when he talked with Elenna finally. And I liked that he didn't go into that conversation 'all prepared' but spoke with his heart -- and that it didn't go as well as he'd hoped. The tension you created just makes me want to read the next chapter right now.
Another great chapter, Karen. Two thumbs up. As always.
Author's reply
Perhaps it might be best if no one knew when I posted, but I certainly do appreciate you dropping by and staying with me.
I'm so pleased that you saw the emotional impact this had on Aldamir. I hate that you were extra sensitive by way of real life. I hope that this is better for you.
Aldamir was so angry that he was confused as well. He knew he wanted to send Calith to Mandos, but well...he couldn't do that. He was on an emotional roller coaster. When he asked Elenna to walk with him, he was acting on impulse and desire to smooth things over. He did start off speaking from his heart, but unfortunately, things went to pot.
I'm so pleased that you're enjoying this. It means a lot to me! Thanks.
Karen
I have had SUCH a tedious day - and this is the best way to end it.
Poor Aldamir. No-one is prepared to let him play ostrich and pretend he doesn't care.
First there's the bathroom party - what a good way to make sure he can't walk away. Clever Seregon. (A simple towel/clothes removal and he's a captive audience.) He can only put his head underwater to pretend deafness for so long unless he's prepared to drown. I like the image of Erelas reporting to the troop commander while he's in the buff, too. Although I don't think it's likely to become a tradition. And even the baby brothers join the party. I love Aldamir's dry 'I'm entertaining' - followed by Daeron's enquiry about whether wine will be served. That would be rather fun for them all.
I don't think Aldamir would have spoken to Elenna without Adar's revelations, though. He would have gone for the stiff upper lip, I-don't-really-care, I'm-a-tough-warrior image that would probably have reinforced the pretty elf's poisonous words.
And silence in Daeron is, by definition, suspicious. Like wide-eyed innocence from Legolas? Enough to divide and attempt to rule, anyway. I'm glad Naneth tried to push for reflection rather than dashing out to strangle the pretty elf - I don't think Elenna would have been in favour of that. But I'm SURE that Elenna went all mushy when she saw the gorgeous Aldamir dancing so sweetly with the elfling. And she was probably pleased to see him with Queen My Lady, too. (You can tell a lot about an elf, Elenna, by the way he treats his naneth. And elflings.)
Aldamir did quite well with Calith. Not quite so well with Elenna, but then she was very defensive of the pretty elf - which would be enough to drive anyone mad. But surely she noticed how confident Aldamir is that no-one would be spreading those stories about him, because they are just not true. (Speak to Tree, girl. He comes from your village, so you know him. And he knows Aldamir. QED.)
I hope the pretty elf gets mashed shortly. But Elenna and Aldamir had better take a few steps backwards and allow their relationship to develop slowly JUST AS NANETH AND ADAR SAID IN THE FIRST PLACE. Parents might know more than you might think - but they are also good comforters. I loved seeing Aldamir with them both at the end. Excellent chapter.
Author's reply
You're absolutely right that Aldamir would not have said anything if the king hadn't told him about what Legolas and Daeron overheard. He was too hurt to go back into the water just yet. After he did hear about Calith's lies, then he had to get himself under control to prevent a kinslaying! Sweet little Amariel gave him the clue and the push to do what he should do. Too bad he let anger take him again when he was talking to Elenna. She wasn't calm either.
I imagine Elenna did see Aldamir dancing with the little girl and then with his mother. Yep, that's a clincher. I don't think she's ever seen Calith do such a thing. Calith is too self-centered. This was just confirmation to her of something I think she knows deep down, but had somewhat ignored until now. She knows that she doesn't love Calith and she hasn't really considered him as a bond mate. He caught her at a vulnerable moment when she had given up on ever finding anyone who fit her needs. She had a moment of actually considering what Calith proposed. What a mistake! Who would you want to be your life's partner and the father of your children? I know which one I'd pick and I think Elenna knows that too. :>) Unfortunately, she was so shocked--at herself--by what Aldamir told her Calith was doing, that she got defensive. Everything went out the window. The queen tried to tell Aldamir that this was really about Elenna's lack of confidence in her own gifts and that Elenna hasn't been listening to what she knows deep down. In truth, Elenna wasn't defending Calith; she was defending herself...to herself and Aldamir. How embarrassing to find out that you've been mislead when you should know better. And in front of the guy you've fallen in love with...and he's the king's son, no less. Time to slow up a little, indeed. The parents were right!
I'll let you in on a little secret...Calith does get smashed, but not in this story. I'm feeling kind of bad that everyone is going to be disappointed that the worm doesn't get his due this time around, but when it comes, it's gonna hurt. But I have to write another in between this story and that one, I think. I might can get both events into one story, but I'm not sure yet. I've got to finish this one before I can move on to putting the ones outlined into action.
Thanks for staying with me. I appreciate your wonderful reviews more than you'll ever know.
Karen
French Pony
· 6 April 2005
· Chapter 12: Chapter Twelve: Aldamir
Well, that could have been worse. True, it could have been better, but it could have been worse. They're still speaking, after all, and Elenna hasn't yet firmly made up her mind against Aldamir. Things are still up in the air. And as long as things are still up in the air, they haven't yet come crashing down.
I take it that the royal bathrooms have no locks on the doors? It's a very good thing that both branches of the royal family tend towards boys. Clearly, not a single one of them cares one jot or tittle about Aldamir's privacy while bathing, despite his ever-growing annoyance. And that's just what makes screwball comedy scenes so much more fun.
Aldamir is lucky. He has Ada, a force to be reckoned with, at his back, so he'll come out relatively okay from all of this. Though it will probably hurt. And if he and Elenna are both as smart as they seem, this story won't end with their betrothal. Both of them clearly have issues they need to work out with each other. She's right, after all; they don't know each other very well at all, and they will need to spend lots of time together rebuilding their trust before they can even begin to think about possibly getting engaged.
I liked the dance, especially the little girl. The only thing I missed was a scene of her dancing standing on Daddy's feet, the classic little-girl-learning-to-dance pose.
Yoicks! Look at the time! Gotta go to class! Catch you later!
Author's reply
You're right; this relationship is not resolved. Elenna did believe Aldamir that he had not trifled with her affections, but she was so shocked about Calith that she went immediately into defensive mode. She wasn't really defending him, even though that's the way it looked, but was defending her own judgment. She knows that she has insight into people and then to find out that she's fallen victim to someone's lies was more than she could absorb at that moment. But like the queen said, she's young and not fully in control of her gift. Especially in an emotionally charged situation.
LOL! About the bathroom locks. Guess not. And who would have thought that Aldamir needed to lock his door? He most likely assumed that people would have the manners to stay out! How wrong he was. The respect of being commander obviously doesn't extend to family when they want to barge in.
Adar is slightly miffed, to say the least. He struggling with being offended on behalf of his son and on behalf of the crown. The king is constantly looking at his own motives where his sons are concerned. It's a fine line sometimes.
I was so glad to read what you said about Elenna and Aldamir. The whole relationship went way too fast. Both of them jumped in with both feet. No caution at all. Meeting one another came at a vulnerable point in both their lives and they were not thinking beyond the moment. They need time to sort all this out and then to back up and start again. Some time might be needed for everyone to get over their hurt, but they do love one another; they just screwed it up in their haste.
Amariel was the turning point for Aldamir. He wanted what his guard had. To have this kind of joy and contentment in his life was worth the risk to him. Things went wrong, but some important things came out of the confrontation. Both of them admitted to the other the love they have...not in so many words, but it's there. The two squabbling lovers have a lot to think about. Priorities to set and lessons to learn. We'll give them some time and see if things can't work out.
Thanks so much for reading. Your reviews are often very insightful. I'll say no more! :>)
Karen