Yanic
· 7 September 2005
· Chapter 15: Anger and Guilt
I'll admit that I was surprised to see where this chapter picked up, I had expected the story to follow Legolas. But I really like getting the different perspective of Feren here. And I really liked watching Bainion squirm!
Author's reply
I hadn't really planned on this chapter either, but I thought Bainion needed some closure and it was a good opportunity to work on Feren's character further, so here it is! Legolas will make his appearance again in the next chapter.
Mystwing
· 7 September 2005
· Chapter 15: Anger and Guilt
I think you handled this chapter very well. I must say that I do think Bainion got exactly what he deserved. Although he did come up with some convincing arguments, he still seemed to act hastily.
I am fast beginning to love Feren. He is a wonderfully complex character. He is a strong commander even if he let his role as a brother help in his decisions. After all, who wouldn't? I love the interaction between Feren and Thranduil. Thranduil was understanding enough to show his love for his sons, but also responsible enough to attend to his duties. I think he is doing a good job of setting an example.
Anyway, I just love the story, can't wait for the next chapter!!
Author's reply
It wasn't an easy chapter to write. As I have said, I hadn't even planned on writing the Feren/Bainion confrontation in the first place, but thought better of it. I'm glad the chapter worked out okay in the end.
I'm rather surprised at the development of Feren's character myself. He sort of just grew out of the words I managed to put together. He's not as fun as Tavaro to write about, but he's definitely challenging. So I am very happy that you find him likable.
I like writing a good Thranduil. Legolas wouldn't have turned out the way he did later on if his father didn't set a good example.
Thanks for the review!
Kat
· 7 September 2005
· Chapter 15: Anger and Guilt
Pshhh Bailion got what he deserved. And I'm glad Legolas is physically alright. Now we just need to take care of him emotionally. Keep up the good work, I can't wait to read more.
Author's reply
I expect there are very few sympathizers out there for Bainion and his fate. Good thing I meant him to be so unlikable. Legolas will recover, eventually.
Thanks for your review!
The Karenator
· 7 September 2005
· Chapter 15: Anger and Guilt
Oooh, Manderly. What a good chapter. Feren was wonderful in his anger. You did such a good job of showing not only his anger, but a logical and reasonable rebuttal by Banion. I was as surprised as Feren that he dismissed Banion from the ranks, but from appearances, Banion didn't feel much remorse for his decisions. He did give us a glimpse into his thoughts about Legolas when he thought of him as spoiled and doted upon. Kind of makes one think that Banion intended to set Legolas up to fail, only the consequences of this setup was more than Banion bargained for.
Thranduil was wise in his words to Feren. Feren does have a hard job and finding a balance between brother and commander would be tough. I like that Thranduil admitted his own confusion at times about which role he's occupying.
Glad Legolas is recovering, but it sounds like it'll be a slow one. Now, the good commander has to decide whether to allow Legolas back to the border patrol or something a little safer. Feren could probably get away with keeping Legolas closer for a while...recovery, ya know...but eventually, he'll have to place his trust in Legolas to do his job again. Poor Feren.
Good show! I'm looking forward to the next chapter.
Karen
Author's reply
I had originally planned on not writing about the Feren/Bainion confrontation, but only make some passing reference to it. But since there seems to be a general consensus out there to see Bainion being flayed alive by Feren's tongue, I thought I better give it some attention. It was harder than I expected to write as I didn't want Feren to go overboard. I hadn't planned on having Bainion dismissed either, but somehow it just ended up like that.
Thranduil probably only knows too well what Feren is going through as he's been going through the same thing for thousands of years. I like having Thranduil admitting to his own weaknesses once in a while. Brings him down to the mortal level a bit.
Feren will probably try to keep Legolas close to home for a while, with Thranduil cheering him on on the sideline, but eventually, he will have to let little brother off the leash unless he wants a full blown rebellion.
Lianna
· 7 September 2005
· Chapter 15: Anger and Guilt
I really feel for Thranduil here.
Feren may be torn in two directions -- between his role as commander and his role as brother to Legolas -- but Thranduil is actually torn in three directions. He has to act as king and as Feren's father, and both of these roles require a degree of control that must be terribly difficult for him right now, since he also has a third role as Legolas's father.
I hope the elves have good methods of relieving stress. Thranduil needs all the help he can get.
It was good to see that idiot officer get what he deserved. I enjoyed reading that part very much!
Author's reply
I agree with you said about poor Thranduil. He's torn in all directions. Luckily for him, he's had plenty of years to work on this balancing act, but like he says, it's probably something that's impossible to achieve.
Hmm, I wonder about stress relief for elves. What would they do? Shoot a few orcs?
Bainion got the tongue lashing from Feren and well-deserved too! But I don't think it registered.
daw the minstrel
· 7 September 2005
· Chapter 15: Anger and Guilt
Well good for Feren! He can apparently ream negligent, arrogant warriors out quite satisfyingly. Unfortunately, he didn't make a dent in Bainion, who apparently still thinks he was right. I read some study about incompetence and it said that one of the marks of true incompetence is that the person doesn't know they're incompetent, because it they did, that would go a long way toward remedying the problem.
Author's reply
Yes, well, Feren got a few things off his chest. Can't blame him much, but like you said, Bainion was totally unaffected by it all. What the studies said about incompetence is so true! I've seen some pretty blatant examples of this in the workplace and it's scary that some of these very people are in positions of authority.
elliska
· 5 September 2005
· Chapter 14: Between Brothers
So nice to have a moment to enjoy some fanfiction...
Well, things have gone about as badly as they can for Legolas. Poor him and poor Feren. The poisoned wound is very scary. I suppose if there is an up side to me being so long in catching up with my reading, it's that I won't have to wait too long for the next chapter. Thranduil is going to have the Elven version of a heart attack when he sees his youngest. :-)
Author's reply
Reading fanfiction is my relaxing time too, only I think I do too much of it!
Things are getting rather nasty for Legolas and Feren, but at least they had the chance to speak openly to each other and hopefully gained a greater understanding of each other.
Thranduil will have a fit for sure when he sees his baby coming back poisoned. Hopefully he gives Feren a chance to explain before taking his head off!
lwarren
· 3 September 2005
· Chapter 14: Between Brothers
This was a beautiful scene between two brothers who, while loving each other dearly, have spent a lot of time misunderstanding each other. Feren really comes through in this chapter, Manderly! The very much in-control, older brother showed his deep love for his family and his little brother quite clearly (at least, it seemed that way to me!). And Legolas had some very MATURE moments here - Feren HAD to face it - little brother is growing up...and while he still has these adolescent fits from time to time, he's much more grown up than Feren realized. Now, Manderly...get the boy home to a healer ASAP! He seems to be getting worse very quickly now! Ooooooh, Thranduil's gonna have a fit when he sees his youngest (of course, he'll have to get behind Feren to have that fit!) Lovely chapter - Feren and Legolas needed to have that talk! (Sorry I've not reviewed all the other chapters - I've been really sick most of the summer...tho' I did keep reading. The whole story is wonderful and I'll try to catch up sometime during this Age!)
linda
Author's reply
First of all, I am very sorry that you haven't been well. There is nothing more important than one's health so please take care of yourself. I really hope you will get better soon.
I must admit I really enjoyed writing this chapter, as I am a big sucker for brotherly interactions. In the past, I've concentrated more on the dynamics between Legolas and his other two brothers, but seemed to have neglected Feren. So here it is, and I am glad Feren's character is coming through. He is still not 100% clear in my mind so I am basically winging it as I write along.
Legolas is growing up, albeit slowly at times and his family will need to recognize that. But regardless of how grown up he may be, his family will still freak out when something happens to him.
Thank you for taking the time to read and review, even when you are not in good health. Hope you feel better very soon!
Yanic
· 1 September 2005
· Chapter 14: Between Brothers
I'm really starting to like Feren. He's developed into such an interesting character.
Author's reply
I am glad Feren is beginning to be likeable. He is a character that takes a while to warm up to. Just ask Legolas.
Bodkin
· 1 September 2005
· Chapter 14: Between Brothers
Poor Feren - he's so worried here. The only thing he needs less than taking home a wounded little brother is to be taking home a poisoned, wounded and failing little brother. But Legolas is sounding much more mature here - his comments on Bainion and his own dealings with the men make him sound like a warrior rather than a petulant boy. I think perhaps the pain and light-headedness have enabled him to talk to Feren on more equal terms.
I'm rather keen to get Legolas home now, though. I think he needs a healer - and then a bit of tender loving care. And maybe a serious talk with Aldeon about the peculiarities of humans.
Author's reply
Feren is probably feeling like he's at the end of his ropes here. Legolas is coming to some realizations and is baring it all to big brother, thinking he might not have the chance later. I think both brothers could do with some TLC right now. Where is Adar when you need him?
thechevin
· 1 September 2005
· Chapter 14: Between Brothers
This was a beautiful chapter so full of love and caring between the two brothers and Feren's real love and pride in his youngest brother is very plain here as was Legolas'love for his brother a pity it has taken such a crisis for them to see what no doubt the rest of the family already knew
I do hope that they find an antidote for that poison soon I have this mental image of Adar riding to the rescue I can't see him being prepared to stay at home and wait once Hesin gives him the news
I like this story so much I want it to go on and on
Author's reply
Like you said, the deep feelings that Feren and Legolas have for each other as brothes are there all along, but I guess Feren was too busy being a big brother and Legolas was too busy being a little brother to really try to understand each other before this. At least they got the chance to tell each other how they feel before it was too late.
I don't think Adar would be sitting back either after finding what happens.
Mystwing
· 31 August 2005
· Chapter 14: Between Brothers
I'm glad to see that Feren and Legolas cleared things up. It should be interesting to see how King Thranduil will react to the news of Legolas' injury. I hope they get the antidote soon!
Author's reply
The brothers really needed to do some serious talking and I guess each thinking that he may be running out of time brings out the honesty from both of them. I don't think Thranduil will be a happy ada when he finds out that his baby is hurt.
daw the minstrel
· 31 August 2005
· Chapter 14: Between Brothers
Poor Feren. He has a hard duty here. But he's showing his soft side to Legolas. I think Feren needs to fall in love and look very awkward in front of his little brothers. :-)
Author's reply
What a great idea! Feren falling hopelessly for some silly maiden! That ought to loosen him up, not to mention giving his brothers ammunition for teasing and blackmailing! Must think further on the idea! Thanks, Daw!
Lianna
· 31 August 2005
· Chapter 14: Between Brothers
"I need you to listen to me while I can still speak. You are not responsible for what happens to me. I am a warrior, Feren, and I accept willingly whatever fate that may befall me, including death."
This, of course, is the sort of thing that desperately needed to be said, but I'm amazed that Legolas could manage to be that coherent. In such situations (well, actually, I don't really know anything about such situations, so I will have to generalize from the experience having a baby), an awful lot of us would not be able to manage anything more coherent than "More drugs, please!"
Legolas is so strong here that he almost seems like his movie equivalent.
Author's reply
I'm relying on the premise that elves are pretty resilient beings and extending that to include their high threshold for pain. Or maybe Legolas just doesn't know about the saving grace of epidurals. I know I'd go for the drugs myself! :)
The brothers needed to clear the air between them and I thought they better do it before the poison totally takes over.
French Pony
· 31 August 2005
· Chapter 14: Between Brothers
"I do not imply otherwise, my lord," Hesin said quickly. "But it may be difficult to fend off attackers and protect Legolas at the same time."
"I am quite aware of such difficulties, but I would prefer to take such chances than to risk Legolas succumbing to the poison," Feren kept his voice low, but no less firm. "It may be that Kala already has such an antidote in his possession, in which case, he can ride out to meet us with it."
Hesin and Feren are talking too much for their own good. Conversations like that are an almost certain guarantee that Bad Things will happen.
But it seemed to do Legolas some good to speak to Feren. And nice of Feren to speak honestly back to him. Poison'll do that, it looks like. Feren's going to have to do some growing up soon. As commander, his job is to treat Legolas like a warrior and not coddle him as a little brother. It's tough, but that's Feren's job to do. Legolas is being real brave right now, and maybe that'll help Feren do his job.
Author's reply
I think both Feren and Hesin are totally stressed out here thinking that they will lose Legolas to the poison. So much for the myth of cool, Zen-like elves! They freak out, just like us mortals.
This whole experience must be an eye-opener not only for Legolas, but for Feren as well. Like you said, he needs to see Legolas as a warrior now and give the kid some free rein, but it's probably easier said than done. I still feel the urge to protect my kids and they are both taller than me now.
Alfirin
· 30 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
Another wonderful chapter as always! You have such a command with words...I must say I enjoy reading your dialogues the most. It does take great mastery to write dialogue among characters that flow so naturally and not seem forced.
I sense that little poison flowing through Legolas' veins will make its appearance very soon eh? Hmm and I'm also sensing that Hesin, Feren, and Legolas will meet a few handful of orcsies as they hurry to make their way home to the healer. Ooo much hurt/comfort and angst ahead...me likes =)
Author's reply
Thank you so much for your very kind words. It's so encouraging to hear reviews like yours, especially so since there is so much talent on this site. It took me the longest time to start my first story because I felt so intimidated. I still feel intimidated.
You are probably right about the poison. Legolas is going to have a difficult time ahead, and Feren will be fretting endlessly.
Lianna
· 27 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
I like the way that Legolas, despite the fact that he's feeling terrible, has made real progress in this chapter in terms of coming to an understanding of Feren.
But I think Feren is a bit behind. I suspect that when Legolas thanked him for telling the truth about the poison, he had another message in mind -- "Please acknowledge the truth about my chances of surviving, too." I can't help but wonder whether Legolas, who must know perfectly well that his fate is uncertain, might have things to say to Feren or messages to pass along to other members of his family, just in case he doesn't survive. But Feren's attitude would prevent Legolas from initiating that sort of conversation.
Author's reply
You must have been reading my mind regarding the true feelings of Legolas. Poor Feren is too wrapped up with his worries about little brother's wellbeing that he's forgetting that Legolas must have fears too for his own fate. Legolas will speak his mind, eventually and Feren will listen. Both brothers are making efforts at trying to understand the other better.
thechevin
· 26 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
Poor Legolas to be in such physical pain and emotional turmoil over his brother/commander.
Feren was right to let him stew in his own juice for awhile for he began to see exactly what he had done to himself and didn't in the least like what he saw!
Of course he has to go overboard on his feelings of guilt, a reaction typical to youth whether human or elvish I suspect
I was sorry to see another elvish death and we got a glimpse of how hard being a leader really is for Feren.
He is such a good brother and Legolas finally is able to see and acknowledge that fact near the end of the chapter
I do hope that his wound is not poisoned although I fear it is,
Ada is not going to be happy!
Great writing
Author's reply
Legolas must be asking himself why on earth he was so eager to join a border patrol, as he deals with poison arrows, deaths and overprotective brother/stern commander. Pigs must be looking pretty attractive right now.
As I have said before, Feren does not have an easy job. There's plenty of pressure from above and below, with minimal room for mistakes. Talk about being a prime candidate for ulcers. After this little adventure, Legolas will no doubt have even greater respect for big brother.
And you are right - Ada is definitely not going to be happy!
The Karenator
· 26 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
Growing up is so hard to do. Legolas is still stumbling around that line where he's trying to separate from the authority figures in his family and his profession. Unfortunately, the same authority figures keep turning up in both places. How confusing for him. But he's getting it.
I hated that poor Arphen died. And Feren thinks that Legolas is wounded by a poisoned arrow as well. That doesn't bode well for the new warrior. However, I'll give it to Feren that he's staying calm on the outside even if he isn't on the inside. Thranduil will have a duck. And one of Legolas's lessons, I think, will be to learn that while he might be 'just another warrior', the line is just as murky for older brothers and fathers when he goes out into forest on patrol.
Looking forward to seeing what happens next.
Karen
Author's reply
It must be harder for elves to go through that growing up period as it goes on forever - the price to pay for immortality. And being surrounded by the same bossy lot both at home and at work must make things even more difficult for Legolas. There's no getting away from it all and regardless of how much he wants to be just one of the guys, the special status will always be there.
This poisoned arrow is certainly going to get the entire Royal Family excited in a bad way. If I were Legolas, I would just sleep through it all while everybody else goes beserk.
Yanic
· 25 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
Are you serious? You can't just leave the chapter there, what happens to Legolas? Loved the brotherly love aspect. I bet it would be hard having an older brother being in charge of you. Although I guess that elves can have such differences in age that the whole sibling rivalry thing is moot.
Author's reply
Did I end the chapter on a cliffhanger? I didn't even realize that. If it makes you feel any better, I am working on the next chapter and it should be up within the week.
You are right about the age aspect. Certainly no sibling rivalry here, but poor Legolas probably feels that he is surrounded by parents - one real one and three wannabe's.
elliska
· 25 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
Poor Legolas--seeing him worry about his own conduct and the loss of the warriors he had grown close to was sad enough. Knowing that he now is worrying about poisoned arrows makes it worse. Feren will keep him safe, though, as he says. :-) If he can.
Author's reply
It definitely has not been a good outing for Legolas, but like you said, Feren is going to do his best to keep little brother safe and whole. Hopefully Legolas will let Feren take charge for the next little while.
French Pony
· 25 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
Males! Figures it would take something like a poisoned arrow or two to get them talking reasonably to each other.
Feren's quite a piece of work. It sounds as if he has a little trouble shedding his commander-in-chief role when he's around his family. It's probably good for him to have someone like Legolas around sometimes. And it's good for both of them that he's allowing himself to be just a little bit of a big brother in addition to being a commander. He, of all people, won't let anything happen to Legolas, and Legolas will probably allow Feren to help him in a way that he wouldn't accept from anyone else at the moment.
Author's reply
Yeah, talking it over a quiet cup of tea just wouldn't do the trick for the guys when there are more colourful options, options like blood and gore.
I am slowly working on Feren, but I don't think I have a full grasp of him yet. I find that he's the most interesting to write of all Legolas' brothers. You are so right both Feren and Legolas need each other to balance each other out a bit. I doubt many would dare to stand up to Feren the way that Legolas has while Legolas probably needs the stern hand of Feren to learn some discipline since he has everybody else wrapped around his little finger.
Mystwing
· 25 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
I really enjoy this story and look forward to your updates. I find my heart warmed by the interaction between legolas and feren. It must be hard to be trying to prove yourself as an adult and warrior when your older brother is watching over you. I love the dynamic that you have created between the two. It is just such a real relationship. You have a wonderful talent and I can't wait for the next chapter!
Mystwing
Author's reply
I am glad you are enjoying this story. I really love writing about the brotherly dynamics, almost to the point that I forget to work on the plot of the story. I've been trying to develop the different relaionships that Legolas has with each of his brothers in my stories and it's really gratifying to know that readers like reading about such things.
Thank you for your kind words. The next chapter should be up within the week.
Halandlegever
· 25 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
I don't think I've reviewed this story before, and I really should have- but I just wanted to say that you write so well. You're able to make us feel for the characters. I was teary-eyed when I read about Arphen passing.
And then this line: "I do trust you, Feren. I always have, and I always will."
Beautifully written. It always makes my day when I get a new chapter from you. Keep up the good work, I can't wait to read more.
Author's reply
I am glad you are feeling empathy for the characters for these characters. I must be doing something right.
Thank you for your kind words. It's always so encouraging and gratifying to hear from the readers.
Bodkin
· 25 August 2005
· Chapter 13: The Journey Home
'You will not have it otherwise.
How nice to have a brother who can take on all the monsters hiding under the bed and beat them. Even if Legolas knows now that that is not entirely the truth. And he so appreciates not being treated like a baby.
But Feren isn't going to rest until he gets his little brother home and mended.
Poor Arphen. But his injuries didn't really seem survivable as they dragged him back to the Stronghold, so I'm not too surprised.
And I am glad that Legolas had enough time before his arm got worse to think about the way he was behaving - because I don't think anyone was about to tell him. And I suspect he and Feren will get on a whole lot better now Legolas has acknowledged the difference between over-anxious big brother and troop commander.
Feren - and Hesin - will not be the only ones to be glad to see le petit prince in the care of the top-notch healers.
Looking forward to more.
Author's reply
I think Legolas is finally realizing where Feren is coming from, but will he remember that the next time he decides to let loose at big brother? Probably not. Feren is also coming to terms that Legolas is no longer a helpless baby. Both brothers will need some time to work on their new realizations and roles.
Yes, poor Arphen didn't make it. When I was initially working out the story, I had actually planned on more deaths, including that of Rynan, but in the end, I just couldn't do it. Just couldn't put Legolas through that and the kid was growing on me as well.
The healers are going to be plenty busy and Thranduil will not let them rest until his baby is out of danger.