A Journey Of Discovery by Jay of Lasgalen
pipinheart · 28 June 2005 · Chapter 4: Confrontation
This a very nice story of the twinns in thier younger years.. How Elrohir found his healing powers,and protected the dog that was being mistreated... Love to hear more... update soon...
Author's reply
The next chapter is nearly finished, so I'll update in the next few days (I hope!) Glad you're enjoying this.
Ellie · 10 April 2005 · Chapter 4: Confrontation
Good job! I like the way you handled this chapter and that they didn't get in trouble (yay). Looking forward to the next chapter as usual.
Author's reply
Thanks! It wouldn't be fair if the twins had got into trouble for what happened - it was clear to Elrond and Celebrian that they did the right thing in the circumstances. Next chapter will be along ASAP!
Dot · 8 April 2005 · Chapter 4: Confrontation
Whew. Everyone’s o.k. Poor Elrohir didn’t seem to know what to make of events. It must be hard for him to comprehend the fact that these boys didn’t need a reason to hurt him. I loved the little moment when he realises that whatever is about to happen, at least Elladan must be safe. He made a marvellous effort to defend himself, especially considering how tired and weak he still was. But yay for Draug! He’s clearly decided that Elrohir is his friend now. And I felt such relief when Eilenach & co. arrived – it was getting far too tense there! What a shock it must have been for Elladan and Elrond when Elrohir collapsed like that. I had to laugh at his wounded dignity, though, when Elrohir realises that he fainted!! I hadn’t thought about the fact that Elrond might feel a little suspicious at Elladan’s tale when he sees the supposedly wounded dog so full of life and energy! But I must say, I really liked the way he calmly and respectfully listens to Elrohir’s story about healing him. I suppose he probably suspected that at least one of them would have the gift of healing. And of course, you had to make us see that Will is also a victim in many ways and has reasons for being the way he is! It wouldn’t do for us to be too angry with him ;-) Brindley was very amusing as he tries to be discreet about Will’s family circumstances in front of the twins. I was glad to see that Elladan has realised that they should never have run off on Eilenach. But it would seem that Elrond will have to explain about the importance of keeping promises, while still managing to show his sons that sometimes promises can be broken. In the meantime both he and Celebrían have done a good job in making their sons feel safe and loved. There’ll be plenty of time for lessons to be explained and learned in the morning! :-)
Author's reply
The twins aren't used to that sort of viciousness, fortunately. Elrohir did his best but it was a good thing that Draug decided to repay his help. I decided that it would be reasonable for poor Elrohir to faint after all that - a first time, major healing; a beating by two thugs; the fear that something *else* was going to happen - then the relief as his father arrives. Elrond half suspected that one day Elrohir would turn out to be a healer after what happened when he was born - but it turned out to be sooner rather than later. There will be much to learn from all this.
elliska · 8 April 2005 · Chapter 4: Confrontation
Ok, you want to know how pitiful I am? I am actually thoroughly relieved that you posted this chapter because I was worrying about poor Elrohir and the dog. Good dog! I liked seeing him bite the nasty boys' behinds. Glad you wrote it that way! The fight scene was tense but I'm glad Elrohir got a few good licks in even though the rotten brats fought so unfairly. Stupidly too if they thought they could take on an elf. And poor Elrond. I liked his fury when he realized one of the boys had hit Elrohir (they should be glad they didn't get caught). And I liked how he handled the rest of it. Butterbur and the 'she's a wh...' line made me chuckle--that would have been a heck of a thing for Elrond to have to explain! :) I really am relieved the worst of this is over. I hope we see the nasty boys get a little more justice.
Author's reply
I'm glad you were worried about Draug! I told you he had an important role to play. The cruelty, sadly, was vital to the story - but he did his bit! The two louts did fight dirty - but I doubt they knew E2 were (mostly)elves or what it meant. They're lucky they didn't have to face a furious father! Will's mother is partly why he's like that - but he's still a lout. They'll be dealt with in the next chapter.
Bodkin · 8 April 2005 · Chapter 4: Confrontation
I wish Elrond and Celebrian were my parents. (Not that I'm saying anything against my mother, mind. It's just that they are simply perfect.) And, if anyone can make a pair of adolescents understand that some promises have to be broken - but that doesn't mean that you can just ignore them when you fancy it - then E and C are the ones to do it. I'll bet they're justing bursting with pride to see their sons turning into the kind of elves who will risk themselves to help the helpless. Not to mention Elrohir developing into a pretty ace healer. (By the way, when Elflings 6 comes along - it's already been written for ages, promise. It's been waiting for me to do Elflings 5.) I can't help but feel sorry for Will, though. His mother's a wh... and he doesn't know his father - can't be easy in a small town like Bree. I can see he would grow up ready to kick rather than be kicked. But I hope he gets Taken in Hand. Most enjoyable. More soon? (Note the hopeful intonation.)
Author's reply
I'm glad you spotted the central issue of this story - promises are important, but sometimes they have to be broken. It's a sign of E2's growing maturity that they're beginning to recognise this. I don't like one-dimensional villains who are just evil because they are. Will has had a hard life. (But others with an equally hard life still know right from wrong!) The concluding chapter will deal with what happens to these louts.
daw the minstrel · 8 April 2005 · Chapter 4: Confrontation
I really liked the way the parents reacted here. They went right to what was important rather than quibbling about the rules.
Author's reply
I've been careful how I write Elrond and Celebrian here. The twins broke the rules, but for all the right reasons. E&C recognise that.
French Pony · 8 April 2005 · Chapter 4: Confrontation
I have the distinct feeling that weapons training in Imladris will soon be modified to include defense against street thugs. The twins look like they can handle a formal battle well enough, but dirty street fighting is something else. Elrond is taking all this in stride well enough, though I presume that he's not overly shocked that Elrohir has cropped up with healing powers, knowing what he knows about the circumstances of his birth. And Celebrian is the consummate mother, knowing exactly when is the time for coddling and when is the time for guilt-tripping. And the whole family is in something of a guilt conundrum now. The boys took off because they felt Elrond didn't trust them. And they are correct. Elrond sent the guard precisely because he didn't trust them. And with good reason, as it turned out. Perhaps the family will learn to avoid problems like this by doing sight-seeing together in the future. But then they wouldn't have discovered Elrohir's ability. So it all seems to be working out for the best.
Author's reply
I don't think elves are used to dirty fighting. I expect there are squabbles between elflings, but nothing like this. Elrond is feeling guilty now - he handled the whole business of sending the guard off after the twins badly. It wasn't that he didn't trust them, he didn't trust the town. With good reason, as it turned out. But he knows he should have asked the twins to take Eilenach with them. (But, as you say, then Elrohir wouldn't have discovered he was a healer. And that was the whole purpose of the story.)
Bodkin · 2 April 2005 · Chapter 3: The Hands Of A Healer
That's fascinating. I'm so glad that Elrohir has discovered in himself the ability to heal the dog - but I'm concerned that he will have exhausted himself too much in the attempt and will not be able to defend himself against the nasty bullying scum. (Although, breaking the link between Elrohir and the dog might have turned out to be inadvertantly helpful. I suspect learning how to withdraw from the healing might be as difficult as starting it in the first place.) I hope Elladan drags Elrond and the guard there before things get too out of hand.
Author's reply
I'm glad you picked up on the lout actually helping Elrohir by breaking the link. He certainly didn't mean to! Elrohir is completely unable to control the healing at the moment - he was taken by surprise, and is not trained at all. His exhaustion won't help him, though :(
Vi Janaway · 31 March 2005 · Chapter 2: Bree
Always good...always good. You one of the two best Elladan and Elrohir writers around...I fear for their safety.
Author's reply
Poor Elrohir - he's got to confront the two bullies on his own. He's not used to fighting without Elladan to back him up. Stay tuned for what happens next!
Nilmandra · 30 March 2005 · Chapter 3: The Hands Of A Healer
I like how Elrohir discovered his inherent healing skills - he was thrilled and how fortunate for the dog. Unfortunately, he also just drained himself and now he has some bullies to contend with. I hope the dog has gone for help!
Author's reply
Childhood memories of Lassie and Skippy keep coming to mind as I write this story! The dog will help in some way, never fear.
Kitty · 30 March 2005 · Chapter 3: The Hands Of A Healer
That is so like the twins, to help the dog and don't think a second about their own safety! But I am very glad they saved the dog. Now I hope Elrond will be there in time to prevent Elrohir from too much hurt! And I hope these brutes receive a lesson they don't forget so easily. It was wonderful how Elrohir tried to do as his father always does and discovered his own healing ability in the process. Surely Elrond is proud of him, and I hope he isn't too mad because all this happened! Save slipping from their guard they did nothing bad, and even if it was not very wise of Elrohir to stay behind, he meant no disobedience, but to protect the dog. And they have probably learned a lesson today! It would be nice if the twins can keep the dog - they would be happy.
Author's reply
I think the twins would be impulsive and reckless at times, but for all the right reasons. Elrond, once he gets over his fright, will understand that. The bullies, who think they are just dealing with a much younger child and an injured dog, will find themselves facing a furious young elf, a fully-healed dog, the elf's indignant twin, and two adult elves in full defence mode. I think they'll remember this ;)
Cierah · 29 March 2005 · Chapter 3: The Hands Of A Healer
Goodness, what a story. I was quite surprised as Elrohir was realizing his healing talents. What a lovely surprise to say the least. I can picture Elrohir bragging to his brother later, allowing pride to show. I almost cried when you described the torture to the poor dog, I witnessed that once and it was not a pleasing sight. The whole naming the animal was very sweet and tender it brought a tear to my eye. Sign, I am very emotional you know. Pain?? You leave it there? Goes back to read it again....Pain???? =0 *gasp/thud* Get em Ro!
Author's reply
I hated writing about hurting the dog, but as you can see, it was necessary so that Elrohir could discover this talent. I think Elladan will be envious and proud of his twin. I didn't want to keep saying 'the dog' all the time, so invented a name for him - and 'Huan' seemed too predictable. Have you noticed that I like cliff hanger endings?? ;)
French Pony · 29 March 2005 · Chapter 3: The Hands Of A Healer
What a lovely thing for Elrohir to find out about himself! Now he has something of his very own, which must be nice when you're the number two twin. Did he really make the dog all better? It'll be his friend forever, then. Which will probably just make the tormenting boys madder. If only the twins had learned this about Elrohir sooner. . . but life is so full of "if onlys," isn't it? At least the dog seems to have stuck around, so it's not just Elrohir versus the bullies, and Elladan and Elrond are on their way.
Author's reply
In my stories where the twins are adult, Elrohir is a healer (so's Elladan, but Elrohir is stronger). I wanted to explore how he first discovered this power. Don't worry, Elrohir and Draug will team up to confront the thugs!
elliska · 29 March 2005 · Chapter 3: The Hands Of A Healer
I am sooo relieved to know that Elrond is close enough to have heard the fight starting. That means help is near at hand. And I love the twist this took. I expected something more psychological (like courage to stand up to the nasty boys). Discovering his ability to heal was a very nice surprise. I think he just made a friend of that dog for the rest of its life. This is a wonderful story (love stories with animals)! BTW: Elrond's concern and swift conversion to fury was very well done. Very realistic.
Author's reply
I've always thought of the twins as fairly courageous - they come from a strong-willed family, and wouldn't have been raised to be shy and retiring. They both already had enough courage to confront the boys - though it may not have been wise. I've often hinted at Elrohir's stronger healing ability, and thought it time to show when he first realised this. I'm glad you liked Elrond's reaction - he always seems to be a very calm, understanding parent - but I thought that when he's worried, his anger might get the better of him.
Dot · 29 March 2005 · Chapter 3: The Hands Of A Healer
Aargh! I was going to suggest this when I saw your question over at RMH but thought I’d look like a right twit if I was wrong – and when I read the chapter title then it took every ounce of willpower not to scroll down and see if I was right! Oh well. This story is becoming very exciting. I actually felt quite bad for the worried parents. I imagine Brindley thought they were over-reacting slightly but they’re in a strange place and Elrond knows very well that there would have to be more of a reason for their lateness than forgetfulness. “What might these young thugs do to Elrohir if they returned, and found him alone?” *sigh* That’s what I was thinking. “That’s the dog!” LOL. Sorry, I know it was a tense moment but that was really funny. A cry of pain? A cry of pain??? At least the dog was starting to warm to Elrohir and seemed to realise that he could trust him. My heart went out to Elrohir, though, and this introduction to the fact that some people can just be needlessly cruel. I just loved the part where Elrohir tentatively tries what he’s seen his father do and realises with a shock that it works. You wrote it so well. I really like the idea of him being able to feel this energy as part of him and somehow knowing and feeling the dog starting to heal. Obviously he needs to be trained so that he won’t wear himself out like that but it was such a wonderful moment and I felt so glad for him! And for Draug too, of course! What kind of a place was that to leave it?! I’m just hoping that cry of pain was the result of Elrohir smacking one of those boys over the head with that piece of wood. More please! :-)
Author's reply
I'm glad that you'd begun to guess the plot. I've often made reference to Elrohir's healing skills when the twins are adult - and he had to start somewhere. He got quite a shock, though! Elrond was panicking a little at the beginning of this chapter - he feared the only reason for the twins not to return as promised was bad news. And he was right ;( Now he's really worried, and so is Elladan. I thought Elladan's comment 'That's the dog!' was the sort of thing one might say in the heat of the moment - I'm glad you liked it! Poor Elrohir is exhausted, and outnumbered by boys much bigger than he is - but he's not going to sit there and let them beat him up, is he? He's going to fight.
daw the minstrel · 29 March 2005 · Chapter 3: The Hands Of A Healer
I was so excited when I realized what was going to happen just before Elrohir did! The sensation you described for him was great. He must have been so surprised. I'm hoping Draug will come to his aid now. I'm a little worried that Elrond won't get there in time.
Author's reply
Elrohir had no idea at all that he would be or could be a healer like his father. It came as a huge surprise to him. It won't be quite such a surprise for Elrond - he suspected that this might happen one day. The question now is, will Draug do a 'Lassie' and bring help? Wait and see! Thanks for the review, Daw.
French Pony · 26 March 2005 · Chapter 2: Bree
Given the nature of the two boys in question, Elrond might have had an easier time getting an eye kept on them if he had offered to accompany them on a tour of Bree. No one likes being spied on. But, of course, Elrond and Celebrian need to explore the inn. I loved Celebrian's joy at the novelty of staying there. I understand how she feels -- I stay at hotels so rarely that it always seems that much more exciting than I do. You can tell a lot about a person by how they treat animals, and it looks like the boys have firmly entered the ranks of Good People.
Author's reply
I'm glad you made that point about how Elrond sent the guard after E2. That was the part they didn't like - they felt they weren't trusted. I thought about what we know of Celebrían so far - it's very unlikely she'd have been in an inn before, so it was just as much an adventure for her. As for the twins, I've always written them as Good People (if a little reckless at times) - I don't write idiot prankster twins who sound like Fred and George Weasley from Harry Potter. The trouble they're in now comes from righteous indignation and good motives.
Bodkin · 26 March 2005 · Chapter 2: Bree
I'm glad Elrond had enough experience of his sons to make sure they had an escort. Just a shame he didn't tie them together. He was resigned, though, when the guard came back without them - and probably appreciated the descriptive manner of explaining what had happened. They didn't mean any trouble (they never do!) but they are chin-deep in it anyway. Well, Naneth and Adar might be accepting of the idea of saving the poor dog - but E2 will be lucky to get out on their own again before they hit their majority. Once they've got out of this, which they haven't yet. I love Celebrian's excitement. It probably would have been enough fun for Elrond just to have her along on the trip, whilst leaving the terrible twins to drive Glorfindel and Erestor insane in Imladris. But I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next!
Author's reply
Elrond was only partly right about the guard. By asking him to follow them, E2 think their father doesn't trust them - so it's OK to dump the guard! The trouble they're in now come from the best of motives (they'd never stand by while an animal was hurt) but it's still trouble. You're right, it would have been more peaceful for Elrond and Celebrian to leave their sons at home - but then there wouldn't be a story!
Nilmandra · 26 March 2005 · Chapter 2: Bree
Well, trust them to slip their guard and then find they needed him. I find the older I get the less sympathy I have for stupidity. Empathy yes, having been and occasionally still being, stupid myself. So, they have done the right thing, but they're still gonna get it from their parents. :D
Author's reply
It wasn't very sensible to lose the guard - but Elrond handled it badly. He should have told his sons that Eilenach was there, and why. Now E2 have broken two of their promises, which won't go down well.
elliska · 26 March 2005 · Chapter 2: Bree
Ok Jay, now that was really sad. Poor dog! Good for E2 for standing up to those nasty boys. But absolutely nothing good is going to come of the twins splitting up like that (which, of course, is the point and is going to allow you to show what you want to show). But this one actually scares me. Those boys are vicious and I fear to see whar Elrohir is going to learn. And I also fear Elladan is going to have trouble getting back into the city since the gates will be closed so Elrohir will be in trouble for a while. Boy, Elrond and Celebrian are going to freak. Don't be too scary, Jay. I've got a thin skin. :)
Author's reply
Beating the poor dog was actually the nastiest scene in this story, so don't worry too much. And they're still inside Bree (the gate they climbed over led to the timber yard, not outside), so that won't be a problem, either. You'll have to wait and see what I have got planned, though!
Dot · 25 March 2005 · Chapter 2: Bree
Brindley is so great. I was grinning through his whole speech. Elrond’s probably not quite used to people spouting at him and then not waiting for an answer! Celebrían’s excitement is so endearing! Although, she could be in for a bit more excitement than she thought… “The little buggers gave me the slip!” LOL!! It’s a good thing Elrond knows his sons well enough not to take offence at people calling them names! I loved your descriptions of Bree and the people who live there. It’s all so vibrant and alive. The children were so cute and I like the feeling that the people are as curious about the twins as they are about the folk of Bree. And the habit they have of speaking at the same time and repeating old arguments seems to be amusing everyone greatly! I had to laugh at how cross Elladan and Elrohir get when they accidentally answer as one voice. They certainly seemed to meet some friendly people. But I suppose there are always the bad ones too. I just love how Elladan and Elrohir immediately went for the youth with no thought to their own safety because the poor dog was being harmed. Elladan was very impressive. And strong! I was so relieved when the boys left. Not that it means we won’t see them again but at least they’re gone for now. It’s so touching to see how gentle Elrohir is with the dog. I’m glad he seems to be winning at least the tentative trust of the dog. And it’s good that the twins realise they’re in over their heads and need help. But I don’t like the thought of them splitting up. In fact, I’m quite worried about that…;-)
Author's reply
Brindley has a strong resemblance to his distant descendant, of course. I'll have to give him another scene in the next chapter! Elrond wasn't supposed to overhear the guard's comment about the twins, or he'd never have said it. He knows what they're like, anyway. I'm glad you liked the descriptions of Bree. That part of the story seemed very bland at first, so I went back and re-wrote it, trying to think of the things the twins would find most interesting. Most of the people are nice - the boys are an exception, thankfully. I didn't like hurting the poor dog, but needed a convincing reason for the twins to break their promise to their parents. And the dog still has a very important role in this story ... I think needless cruelty like that would be guaranteed to enrage the twins - anyone, really.
daw the minstrel · 25 March 2005 · Chapter 2: Bree
Oh dear. I'm worried now. The boys said that someone whose name I forget would be unhappy with them for beating the dog. How's he going to know Elrohir didn't do it? I can just see all kinds of trouble coming here.
Author's reply
I hadn't actually thought of that. No, the owner of the yard has gone home for the night. There are going to be other consequences, though. Thanks for the review!
paranoidangel · 19 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Journey To Bree
I made the mistake of reading this when I didn't have enough time/brain to review and now I can't remember what I wanted to say about it. But it looks interesting so far.
Author's reply
Thanks, Nic. You probably won't be able to catch the next few chapters, but have a great time in Oz!
Kitty · 17 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Journey To Bree
Elrond and Celebrían let them explore Bree alone? Hm ... I wonder if this is brave or foolish ... Anyway, it is a promising start. Loved how the twins helped eagerly with everything they would have seen as horrible at home, and how they went fishing with their mother and discovered her abilities in fishing and swearing!
Author's reply
As you'll see from tonight's chapter, it may not have been a good idea. I think the skills the twins are learning on this journey will be very useful to them in later life - but of course it's not work, and they're not learning anything!
elliska · 16 March 2005 · Chapter 1: Journey To Bree
Hi Jay! This is going to be short and possibly incoherent. Sorry. I'll write a better review for the next chapter. :-) I'm glad to see you with a new E2 story. :) And you have a lot in this chapter too. I loved seeing them learn the wilderness tricks--all of them but especially Celebrian's lessons. It's fun to learn new things about your mother...I mean from your mother. :) But them running around Bree...can't be good. This one looks like a lot of fun!
Author's reply
I'm glad to be starting a new story, too. I love posting the first chapter! I hope the camping and wilderness stuff sounds authentic, as it's entirely made up! I like to show Celebrían in a less - ladylike - role. She did and said things here she'd never have done at home!