Sweet Woodbine by Bodkin
Lianna · 8 June 2006 · Chapter 9: Reunited
Thranduil is one of a kind. "My daughter." Just like that. *sigh*
Author's reply
He made a very quick judgment there. Of course, he had been watching them from the ship from the very first moment he could pick them out. And I imagine he is as aware of his son as Legolas is of him. Bur yes. Instant approval. I imagine Legolas's emotions flared then like Mithrandir's fireworks.
French Pony · 8 June 2006 · Chapter 9: Reunited
I love Thranduil's intensity and singlemindedness. This is clearly an Elf who has survived thousands of years by focusing on one goal at a time and never letting himself waver until he's achieved it. It'll be a tough thing for him to adjust to a more measured, leisurely way of life. But I have no doubt that he will relax with the same focus and intensity that he brings to everything else in his life. And he made quite the statement there with Elerrina. Thranduil has a sharp eye, and he sure knows what's good for him. Litheredh, on the other hand. . . he seems like he's been the fall guy once too often.
Author's reply
Thranduil has had problem piled on problem for centuries - millennia - and has developed a style for dealing with them that is very different from the Blessed Realm's slow debate and gradual evolution. He's pretty raw at the moment and in need of rest and recuperation - and then he would, I think, descend into boredom. Except, of course, then the West becomes a possibility and a whole new realm of activity opens up to him. I think he decided he didn't care about any of the peripherals. Legolas loved Elerrina and that was enough for him. He wants family - and happy family, too. Litheredh is doing OK. He's beginning to think much more like a leader of elves. Not sure that was his intention, but hey...
daw the minstrel · 8 June 2006 · Chapter 9: Reunited
Geez, I love Thranduil. "Daughter." Ha! Take that, you prejudiced Noldo! And I'm a little embarrassed to say I also like the sexual tension between Legolas and Elerrina. I think they need to get married soon or they're going to explode.
Author's reply
Thranduil is prepared to make quick decisions - and I think he is very raw at the moment and very open to his son's emotions. And family is important to him. He may well have spotted the complications later - but I think he would still have thrown his support behind them. And sexual tension is just so much more satisfying than resolution ... They will have to hang on a little longer. My timeline is only vague and I'm not checking it very thoroughly - but I recall Elladan and Elrohir have to have been around long enough to be pretty recovered. And Elladan gets married first. But - in elven terms - it won't be too long now.
elliska · 7 June 2006 · Chapter 8: Reaching
Poor Taryatur--you can feel sorry for him since he really does love his daughter. And I bet it just drives him insane that Legolas isn't reacting to his glare as he should. A combination of the bliss of love and centuries of dealing with Thranduil just makes Legolas immune though. Brings a thought to mind though--I would love to see Taryatur and Thranduil face off. Talk about looks that would turn people to stone! :-) Legolas remained straight-faced, but Taryatur suspected he was holding back a rather sardonic laugh – in the full understanding that the Sundering Seas might freeze over before his beloved’s atar was willing to see him as anything more than a usurper of Elerrina’s affections. The dry humor like this all through this sequence just made me laugh. And Legolas is such a great character here. I absolutely love how he rings the promise that he can get at the moment out of Taryatur. I just loved this whole thing. And I loved the innkeeper's little lesson. That was very well done. Legolas's conversation with Camentur was also great--Legolas's reactions to Camentur's question (do you regret it) and to the memory of his first kiss with Elerinna were wonderful. And I liked Camentur's observations about his sister. And poor Legolas--new lovers are always so willing to try each other's hobbies/interests but glass blowing is soooo hard. One of the guys I work with used to do it. He talks about it all the time and it sounds fascinating...but poor Legolas. And I loved the comments about Gimli. And the part with Haldir was great! I hope he comes back and tells someone appropriate what he saw. Surely he will. Great chapter Bodkin!
Author's reply
Poor old Taryatur - and Linevende, too, come to that - started out as a bit of a joke. But the trouble with characters is that they just keeping on growing and complicating themselves. They love their children dearly - and Taryatur can see all the possibilities for unhappiness and potential difficulties. And is reluctant to look at the things that might make their relationship work. Legolas will be relieved to get Elerrina away from her parents. He knows he's only going to get grudging consent - it'll take a lot before Taryatur forgives him for winning his daughter's heart. Now Camentur actually likes his future brother-in-law and they know each other well enough by now to be beyond formal politeness. I wanted Legolas to show that he is willing to admire and encourage Elerrina in her craft - and that she is skilled. I do love Gimli. One day I must write something with a lot more Gimli in it. It's difficult to keep the other part of the story running - and I don't want pure L/E - Haldir got the responsibility of discovering more! I think he'll tell Galadriel and let her decide who should know more. I'm glad you liked it! Thank you, elliska! It's beginning to come towards the last chapters, I think. After all, Taryatur has almost said yes. Legolas will want to capitalise on that!
Redheredh · 4 June 2006 · Chapter 8: Reaching
Ah, more progress! Poor Taryatur... not exactly keeping and screaming to the alter, but close enough for him. That innkeeper had me in stitches with the peppers. And poor Litheredh! shows you what not getting acquainted with the local culture can do to you - in a very effective way. ;) Wise Camentur! Yes, always listen to your lady. But, Legolas retort was very witty. Heh, his not knowing what it was like having a sister and being love-blinded. Their conversation was most entertaining. But, the kissing scene was super. So romantic. ...lost in a past that she did not understand. Was this what her atar had meant? She really does care about him, if she is willing to face what her father fears. Guys and sports, hurrah! A loving Finarfin and Earwen, but a lonely Galadriel... Poor Elrond indeed! Her adar's wicked smile? LOL! Good on Galadriel for not doubting Thranduil's loving nature. He just shows it differently than Taryatur. You make me curious about why some elves were draw west and most were not. Who are these travelers that Haldir trails? Are they less allegiant or unallied and therefore need not 'wait' for the right leaders to come along? Avari, perhaps? Reunited pre-journey elves like Bourdain? LOL! The House of Oropher continues in his grandson, after all! ...she is willing to do whatever it takes. I have always liked Elrrina for being the stronger of this pair. At least when it comes to compromise; especially if you compare her with her very reasonable husband, who takes his princely duties seriously. ;) (Can't wait for Leggy's ada to show up *wicked smile* and meet his future in-laws. If they get past their children's future, they will find their past rather more of a bond than bother. Methinks.) A very nice chapter, all around.
Author's reply
Thank you, Redheredh! No, Taryatur isn't keen - but I think he has begun to accept the inevitable. And as long as Elerrina is exquisitely happy, he will suppress his desire to stamp on various parts of Legolas. He has achieved a stay of execution, too - they will not rush into things, but wait for Thranduil's arrival. The inn-keeper's shenanigans came to me while I was driving to my mother's and I had to stop the car to write them down. (I remembered that a certain elf was a product of the Greenwood, even if only briefly - and, even if he never features in this story at all, he will be around in the future.) Camentur and Legolas get on well, I think. He doesn't come with Taryatur's baggage and he is genuinely interested in the world. And has learned enough over the few years he's been married to know that there are some times it is not wise to confront your wife! And here again, I think (looking more from the parental point of view) Taryatur is right. Kissing is one thing. The little shivers when eyes meet. But marriage is living with the whole person - and Elerrina needs to know the whole of the elf she would marry. And he needs to know and understand her. But they are both willing to learn. Galadriel is happy to be reunited with Celebrian and her family - but seeing happy partnerships must increase her longing for a certain dilatory elf to get his skates on - although she understands his reasons enough to forgive his delay. (Possibly unlike her father.) And she knows Thranduil loves Legolas - I don't think that Thranduil / Galadriel get on particularly well but there is a touch of game in it. They're too old and too wily to invest real dislike in something so long-past. As to who goes west - I haven't really thought it out. Those with no ties, perhaps. Those to whom Laerwen is THE Queen. Those who are most closely attuned to the song. Or perhaps the most adventurous - the ones who have no wish to be led. Those who are finishing a long-interrupted journey. (My thoughts may become clearer in time.) Females - including elven females - seemed to have to make the switch to become part of their husband's house, so compromise is demanded of them. And Elerrina would, on marriage, become not just a Wood-elf, but a princess - and (until Laerwen rejoins Thranduil) First Lady of Legolas's people. She would have more to learn than most. But Legolas will do his best to support her all the way. The clash of the Titans... Well - not next chapter. But I suppose Taryatur and Thranduil will have to meet eventually. And Taryatur might well find that meeting other war veterans is quite therapeutic. In the end.
Ellie · 2 June 2006 · Chapter 8: Reaching
Yay! There is sort of consent to the intent of courting with a plan to become betrothed. Poor Leggy with all of the turmoil surrounding this realtionship. Love his respect for her and her work. Another fine chapter! Keep up the good work!
Author's reply
A step forward, I think. Taryatur isn't keen - but he knows he is onto a loser when it comes to keeping Elerrina and Legolas apart. Slowing it down enough to give them time to know each other is the best he can hope for. And hopefully he'll be won over to his prospective son-in-law in the end. Thank you. More soon.
thechevin · 2 June 2006 · Chapter 8: Reaching
Poor Tarytaur, how he would love to send that wood elf on his way but his love for his daughter is so strong he can not quite bring himself to do it so he has to give way, reluctantly but honestly. Legolas and Elerrina have so much to face, not just her parents but so much prejudice and it seems it is not just the Noldor who are intent on putting a stop to their bonding I do like the insights Galadriel brings to the whole affair and her comments on Thranduil Haldir's visitors are fascinating I can't wait to find out more
Author's reply
Taryatur would rather tolerate Legolas than drive Elerrina away - but he's not keen! He is right that the situation is more complex than a simple alliance between two of different kindreds though. Galadriel has more idea than most of what they will have to face - although she is probably picturing her own experience rather than theirs. She has a good understanding of others, too. Haldir happened to be in the right place at the right time to seem something illuminating. What he'll make of it all remains to be seen. Thank you - I'm glad you're looking forward to the next instalment!
Nilmandra · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 8: Reaching
Lots of good stuff in this chapter: Elerrina's parents not being jerks; the acceptance of her brother; the moments alone between Legolas and Elerrina - that was very very well done. You describe the setting and body motions so well. I am curious to know what Haldir is up to.
Author's reply
Elerrina's parents aren't keen on the match, but they do want the best for her. It'll just take a few more centuries, probably, for Legolas to convince them that he is good for her. And E&L are beginning to learn more about each other - beyond kissability, that is - which can only help strengthen their relationship. Haldir has spotted what Finrod has already been told. So now, at least, both sides are aware that the drift west is more than it seems. (Always provided Haldir passes the message on...)
Fire · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 8: Reaching
Yeah, now we're really getting somewhere. The two of them can at last get to know eachother better without Ellerina's adar bugging them all the time. He still doesn't like it, but he has given in to her desire. Only now there's still the Silvan elves that have to learn that their prince can be just as forcefull as his ancestors. Though some allready did :) I loved Camentur's advice to Legolas: ‘a sensible elf always accepts his wife’s wisdom. And: you might not wish to believe this, but Elerrina can be dangerous to cross!’ I think he knows his sister very well and she will surprise a lot of people when they get to know her. I've once had the chance to work with glass and it is much harder than it looks when someone else does it, so I know what Legolas is going through. It takes a lot of practice, just like mending your own weapons. They do find it hard to stop themselves after having to control their feelings for so long, and I can understand that very well. I loved Galadriel and Celebrian talking while watching the ellyn play ball. Galadriel has a very good point when it comes to Thranduil, I believe he'll surprise everybody except her. He'll probably surprise Legolas as well. Haldir is about to find out more about the Blessed Realm than he'd ever thought possible, I can just feel it. The elves he's tracking allready feel the call of the world beyond the mountains, the rest will follow.
Author's reply
They have more problems on their mind than just Elerrina's father - but they have now openly admitted to each other that they care and been given (grudging) permission to get to know each other as sweethearts. They will feel a great deal better about life, even if there are other complications to face. Brothers! I don't think Camentur has revealed all about his little sister - but he and Nisimalote are definitely in favour of this romance. Working glass sounds really difficult - and reading about it definitely doesn't reveal how hard it is. Having a go is one of those 'sharing' things people attempt when love is new - but I think that on the whole he will leave this to Elerrina. At least he could see some practical use to basic smithing skills ... (although I suspect Gimli wouldn't have risked letting Legolas work on his own weapons.) Galadriel knows Thranduil doesn't like her much - but she's clear-sighted enough to recognise his good points and generous enough to admit to them. Elves were sneaking over the mountains for a good long while before the new realms were opened up - Finrod had become aware of it and now Haldir knows, too - and that's fair enough.
French Pony · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 8: Reaching
Awright! I am all caught up. I love your female characters. They have the boys so nicely under control, and the boys don't even know it. It strikes me that, whatever Thranduil's personal feelings about Elerrina are, he a) will not have the slightest desire to hurt Legolas like that and b) is smart enough to recognize a fait accompli when he sees one. Galadriel has really picked up on the thing about Thranduil that no one else seems to be taking into consideration: He is one street-smart Elf, and sees things much more clearly than most people around him.
Author's reply
Thank you! I do like portraying female characters! And managing men is a timeless female skill - together with coaxing children into being co-operative. You think Thranduil will surprise people? He is quite pragmatic - and probably knows which battlefields to choose. But he's not at all keen on Galadriel, after all. And he's not going to be at his best when he gets off that ship.... We'll have to see!
French Pony · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 7: Determination
Elerrina and Legolas, sittin' in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G! Sorry. Had to get that out of my system. Ahem. Better now. I love it as the grownups (most of whom are very happily married themselves) all come to the s-l-o-w realization that all these obstacles they are putting in the path of The Legolas'n'Elerrina is just going to drive the couple closer together. Nothing could have split those two up faster than Taryatur welcoming Legolas with open arms and showing him Elerrina's baby pictures. But that didn't happen, so tough noogies to the grownups. Galadriel's idea of having the Galadhrim work as farm hands is a good one. It'll give the Galadhrim an appreciation for the farmers and give the farmers a chance to get to know the Galadhrim as people rather than strangers in the mist.
Author's reply
Nothing could have split those two up faster than Taryatur welcoming Legolas with open arms and showing him Elerrina's baby pictures. Love it! And Linevende saying, 'Why don't you bring that nice Wood Elf boy round more often?' And the grandparents nudging each other and grinning at them - and putting them to sit next to each other at all possible opportunities. Pushing people into actually working together rather than sitting round tables carping at each other is a good way to show both sides that their 'enemies' are exactly the same as they are. And if Haldir has to end up with an aching back and digging root vegetables - well - it won't do him any harm in the whole scheme of things!
French Pony · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Two Steps Back
Well, that's the way of things. People just seem to resist being told to kiss and make up, no matter how much they need to do just that. It's too bad that all the Elf tribes persist in seeing things only in black and white, as either/or situations. Mixed marriages MUST require one partner to change everything. . . no one seems to have considered the idea that a mixed marriage could mean a blending and strengthening of cultures to the benefit of all.
Author's reply
I would hope that life in the BR would eventually mean a more willing blending of cultures - but people are very resistant to change and Elves have a long, long time to get set in their ways. Many mixed marriages - and I expect there are a fair number of them - probably do involve a blending of traditions. Legolas and Elerrina's problem there would be that he is top Wood Elf - until his father comes. Almost a guardian of Wood Elf tradition. Elerrina would be stepping into the role of top Wood Elleth - and to do that as a complete Noldo would cause lots of problems with the people who look to them for leadership. She will have to be seen to hold Wood Elf values - of course, that's not actually very difficult for her, because, whatever they might think, there's not a great deal of difference.
French Pony · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 5: Making Progress
Poor Haldir. Poor, poor Haldir. Snerk, snerk. Ooh, Elerrina has Mom firmly in her corner. Mom is always a good person to have on your side. It's just a matter of time now. "We just want you to know what you'll be getting into. . . " Yup. She's got Mom. Clearly, Legolas is not a bee charmer. But he makes the effort. Far better to do that than kiss babies all the time. I have to go do laundry now, but I'll come back to this.
Author's reply
Haldir needs to grow up a bit. And now Galadriel has her eyes firmly on him and no Rings or Dark Lords to distract her. She needs a project to keep her busy until Celeborn decides to sail ... and Haldir just got volunteered. It'll do him good. Really. Linevende is torn - she knows that Elerrina has fallen good and hard and that it's too late to do anything about that, but, at the same time, she loves Taryatur dearly and can see the old curmudgeon's point. She saw how fighting in Endore changed him and has had to deal with his problems. But she's much more open to accepting Elerrina's choice. No, Legolas hasn't much experience of bee charming. But he'll try! He knows that he needs to be seen as a Wood Elf as much as a Prince among the Noldor. And, I think, he needs to spend time in the woods as much as the elves there want to see him. It grounds him and reminds him just why he's doing this.
French Pony · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 4: Taking Steps
Must have come as quite a shock to the Noldor of Aman when Galadriel came back. All those ages ago, she left as a fiery, hotheaded, ambitious princess. And then she came back all gracious and knowing and wise and pithy. Finarfin must hardly have recognized her. But I like seeing that she has such a wonderfully subtle sense of humor. For all that she is a complete and total yenta, at least she knows it and can laugh at herself about it. Actually, that's probably the biggest problem that Elves have, across the board. Very few of them know how to laugh at themselves, and more's the pity. Poor ol' Litheredh. He seems to have become a professional fall guy and target. I do hope Legolas pays him enough for the grief he has to take. And Taryatur is manipulated so elegantly here. It'll serve him right when the inevitable happens.
Author's reply
Galadriel grew up a lot in Ennor, I think. She way - dare I accuse her - a bit shallow in her youth! But she had a lot of excellent qualities that time and suffering - and Celeborn - have refined to make her grow into someone to reckon with. To my mind, it is an ability to see and laugh at herself that turns her from someone scary to a truly great elf. (And her rock-solid bond with Celeborn.) You're right - if Feanor, or Maeglin (- or come to that the awful Turin ... not an elf, but someone who definitely took himself far too seriously) had a better sense of the ridiculous, Elven history would have been very different. Litheredh is growing, too. Legolas needs a sidekick - and Litheredh provides that. Together with a view that's a bit closer to the ground. Poor Taryatur. When he first appeared, he was just a pain in the neck. But the poor guy means well. He's blinkered, but he has his reasons for doubting Legolas - and he only wants his daughter to be happy. And, like many parents, he reckons he's a better judge of what will achieve that than she is.
French Pony · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 3: Growing Roots
And so Legolas learns why it is that people are reluctant to enter the wonderful world of politics. Although I have to say, I'd certainly vote for him. If there were more people like him in the real world, Congress wouldn't be in such a mess. He seems like he's growing up, too. His outlook on life is expanding, and he seems to think in broader and more concrete terms about life and his position in it than he did during the War of the Ring.
Author's reply
Legolas would grow and change here, I think. Even as Lord of Ithilien, he still didn't have the responsibility that has landed on his shoulders now. There really aren't many figureheads to lead the elves of Lasgalen in the BR - and he is a well-brought-up and dutiful heir to his father, who would take up what he saw a his duty. And it's not an elected role, poor lad.
Jay of Lasgalen · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 8: Reaching
Ack! How did I miss the last update? He finally kissed her, and I missed it! I'm so glad that they have finally given in to the call of their hearts (hmm - that sounds rather soppy) and admitted their love for once and for all. In front of witnesses, too, so there's no going back or pretending it didn't happen. Taryatur's reaction was much as I expected - he isn't happy, not at all - but nothing he can say will make any difference, and at least he recognises this. I'm glad he finally gave his consent, even if it was rather grudging.
Author's reply
He kissed her ... and has been given reluctant permission to kiss her again! I think they were probably more surprised at how many didn't seem to mind - they are definitely expecting trouble. And just admitting their feelings to each other ... that in itself is a huge relief to both of them. Taryatur will be grudging - for a long time. Legolas is stealing his daughter and loving fathers aren't too keen on that! It'll take him a good while to adjust.
French Pony · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 2: Slow but Sure
I now have some time to spend catching up, so catch up I will! The Elves of Aman may have let their archery skills lapse, but boy howdy are they good with politics! Every interaction has so many subtle shades of meaning and sub-meaning that it must be like learning a whole nother language. You have to know all the history and relationships, and then there's the words, the veiled hints, and then the body language. It's like a whole choreographed performance. There's something very Japanese about it, I think. The emphasis on courtesy and politeness, the oh-so-careful ways of not stepping openly on people's toes, the insults so pointed and concealed that they hit before you're aware of them. These people aren't warriors, but they're still quite dangerous.
Author's reply
Well - when you're not allowed to get violent, you just have to do the best you can! And the Elves of Aman have had a very long time to master politics. I think they would be dangerous - and starting at the top ... It's just as well that Legolas has Galadriel and Elrond happy to deflect some of the metaphorical knives that would be hurled his way. Although his youthful charm and innocence (in the field of BR politics) might have offered some protection - for a while. And he has a good nose for danger. (Just as well!)
daw the minstrel · 1 June 2006 · Chapter 8: Reaching
Legolas is certainly struggling here. It must be a real pain to have your personal life so tied up by old grievances and new obligations. And yet, the reward is sweet. It's just he doesn't have it yet! That scene with Haldir was interesting. It's like those elves were under a spell and vanished into it.
Author's reply
I suppose the one thing elves do have is time. It is probably much wiser to move slowly - especially when hasty action might lead to eternal resentments. And things are moving forward. I don't think the BR is quite ready yet for the bulk of the green and grey elves to move west. There are some important characters still missing!
Redheredh · 28 May 2006 · Chapter 7: Determination
After a week of fanfic deprivation, I am feasting! Wow, Espalas has returned as bold as ever! :D Nice to see that Linvende and Taryatur have concluded that their utter resistance will no do. But, Atar's will collide... Poor Haldir! I do sympathize with him, for I am no farmer either. Nor gardener. I do pick fruit from my trees on occasion, but only on occasion. However, I am happy to see that he gleans a some lessons in race relations from this uncongenial task. ;) The maneuvering going on before Elrrina and Legolas' encounter on the Lonely Isle was engaging. After your hints, I was greatly anticipating their meeting there rather unexpectedly and the resulting fireworks. I really enjoyed seeing more of the subtler side of Finrod's abilities. And how he is indoctrinating poor Camentur in a more shadowy approach to government than what either had learned from his atar. This was an excellent paragraph! A slight clearing of the throat made him reach instinctively for his knives - only to find, of course, that he was unarmed. Weaponry of any kind - sharper, at lease, than the tongue - was decidedly frowned upon at social events organized by the Noldor, and he had long given up carrying anything more deadly than a brooch pin. (Ah but, nice sharp pin can be just as deadly in the right hands, no? ;) Personally, I prefer a nice, long hair pin, since hat pins have gone out of style.) Hmmm, Callise and Litheredh... I would not wager on that being a good match. lol! Always, always happy to see Berry, though. He is such a good foil and adviser for Legolas. "...King Finarfin's confrontation with Lord Celeborn." LOL! Really, your highness! (Now, Sphinx was only partial right about that one, imho.) And talk about excellent paragraphs...She mirrored his gesture...he kissed her. *Wowzer!* This was heady stuff, emotional, highly-charged, dizzying. But ah yes! ...giddy approval. ...unaware that the pair of them glowed with a clear light that spoke volumes to those observing them... I had to love that! Well, I am looking forward to the next chapter as they embark on their romantic quest. Much like Luthien and Beren, they are out to prove that they were meant to be together and, hopefully find out for themselves, that together all barriers are scalable.
Author's reply
Now, when it comes to weapons, I was recently very impressed by the use Eowyn made of a cheese knife in the Falcon and Mumakil... Litheredh, I find, is married, so he is safe from Calisse in that way at least. I think she is naturally very inquisitive and likes to know. She has the natural instincts for espionage, I think. Hidden under the disguise of a Noldor lady. Perhaps you feel like writing a Finarfin / Celeborn confrontation? That would be really interesting - Titans together. I think Galadriel is rather looking forward to it. And not just because it means that Celeborn will have arrived at last. I think, in some ways, this will be less difficult than they fear - and yet more difficult in others. They've been concentrating on emotions - well, they would at the moment - but there are whole layers that haven't even crossed their minds. Haldir is growing - but he's still looking forward to escaping these imposed responsibilities. Linevende and Taryatur want what is best for their daughter. But it will take a lot - and a long time to convince Atar that Legolas is the best. Armed neutrality is the best they can hope for, I think. I like Espalas. Well - and Berry. And Calisse. I think my OC count is rising by the day. I am currently struggling not to introduce anyone else to this tale ... Although Thranduil is a given once he turns up. And the twins. Celeborn, possibly (although definitely not the Celeborn / Finarfin meeting). But the cast is BIG ENOUGH! And I don't want to have to think of any more names!! I'm glad you're still enjoying this.
elliska · 27 May 2006 · Chapter 7: Determination
Ok, so I was reading along, enjoying the chapter and making mental notes of things to comment on in the review--Galadriel's sparing with Espalas was hilarious; Elerrina's parent's conversation and how I feel so sorry for them because they are right to a large extent; Haldir's hilarious thoughts on farming (and the accuracy thereof) and the fact that if he is thinking about things like how to avoid offending people then he has come further along the paths of diplomacy than he knows; lines like: but to keep your people safe, you must be prepared to walk the shadows whilst keeping them from contaminating you I loved that; Legolas's thoughts on his father... But then I got to the last part and nearly forgot there was anything that came before it! Oh my gosh, I loved their kiss!! That was soooo well done that I am very little more than a squeeing fangirl after reading it. That was sooo romantic! Perfect! I loved it!
Author's reply
Espalas has decided to become quite a forceful character - independent and a definite mariner. And poor Taryatur and Linevende just want the best for their daughter - and aren't convinced that Legolas is going to be it! Haldir is beginning to think outside the box - I don't know that he realises that yet - but he really doesn't like farming. And he's not too keen on farmers, either! Finrod has thought more on the duties of ruling than most - he should probably write a book - and he is definitely one who rules by example rather than command. They didn't expect to meet - their guard was down - and Legolas and Elerrina just responded to each other with the simple honesty of the two straightforward people they are. And that's good. But what comes now is the hard part! I'm glad you enjoyed the romantic part! Thank you.
Nilmandra · 26 May 2006 · Chapter 7: Determination
I cannot tell.’ Linevendë smiled faintly. ‘All I know is that I would rather embrace the Wood Elf than push my daughter away.’ ‘I suppose you are right,’ he agreed. ‘And, if someone has to make her miserable, let it not be her parents.’ You know, I am glad to see that her parents are not the 'bad guys'... just people who want the best for a daughter they love and see their expectations not being quite met. And I love the ending, when finally Legolas and Elerrina admit their feelings for each other. I also enjoyed the parts with Galadriel talking to her cousin and Nathroniel. You write their conversations well.
Author's reply
Legolas and Taryatur - well, it'll take a lot to overcome their hostility. They haven't got off on a good footing. But Taryatur is an upright honest elf with an adored daughter. He wouldn't make the job of son-in-law easy on anyone Legolas and Elerrina have been guarding their emotions firmly for some time - but this was an unexpected encounter in the middle of a highly-charged festival - and it will be a relief to them. At least for a while. Espalas has developed quite a character - he's a bit of an elven free spirit, who loves the sea - and Nathroniel is perhaps rather more powerful than I thought at first. Thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed their conversations.
utfrog98 · 25 May 2006 · Chapter 7: Determination
That was one of the most beautiful and romantic love scenes I have read in a very long time - hot stuff for 5:24 am. Story is good too. Thanks
Author's reply
Thank you! It's likely to be about as hot as I get, too! I don't think I have the talent for writing anything too racy! And any wedding night still has to be a long way in the future - it's going to take a lot to bring all the necessary parties under the same roof to hold a wedding. Thank you. I'm glad you're enjoying it.
Alice · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 7: Determination
Their first kiss! Yay! Finally, they're being sensible. Clearly, they're just going to have to make the impossible possible. Duh. I tease. They're both immenently sensible which is part of their problem. It's easy to see where Eleniel aquired her uncommonly good sense. I'm glad Taryatur and Linevende are starting to step back a bit. Not enough to not create tension later on, but enough to lay down a good foundation for being reasonable. Though I doubt Taryatur's going to remain calm when he hears about the spawn of Oropher kissing his daughter. I can't wait for the next chapter to see the fall-out from the kiss and how exactly our two lovebirds are going to make possible the impossible. Oh! And thank you for the reference to Calisse. She's an intriguing character. Though something tells me Litheredh doesn't agree.
Author's reply
It is a good thing that they have moved beyond the barriers they set between themselves. Probably. At least they'll not be sickening for need of each other. However, they still have to convince a whole Blessed Realm full of Wood Elves that this is the right thing to do. Taryatur and Linevende will be pussy cats in comparison. Spawn of Oropher - what a lovely phrase! It makes it sound quite reasonable of Taryatur to object to him! Calisse is quite fun ... I somehow think she's likely to appear again in future stories. Litheredh is a bit nervous of her - but he's safe in that way. I had to check back to the earlier chapters, but I found that he's already married!
Fire · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 7: Determination
YES, now we are getting somewhere. Even Ellerina's parent are starting to realise they can not keep them apart. And the rest of the wood elves there truly are enjoying the two of them together.
Author's reply
Now - the Wood elves who were at that festival are won over. Unfortunately, there were a lot who were nowhere near and were not affected by the power of that moment. Still, it's a start! It's still not going to be easy, though. But at least each knows that the other is there for him/her - and they are patient, self-disciplined elves. I'm sure they'll never be tempted to elope. Will they?
Ellie · 24 May 2006 · Chapter 7: Determination
This was great! Finrod is so very wise indeed and so wonderful. sigh... Absolutely loved the scene at eh end with the coming together of Legolas and his lady. Beautiful and sweetly blissful. AND he proposed! Woohoo! Very nicely done very romantic.
Author's reply
Finrod is wise - and kind and generous and open-minded. I like his father, too. And his mother. They didn't expect to meet - and their carefully preserved guard was down. And now at least each knows that the other is there for him/her. They just have to wear down the reluctance of the rest of the world to see them together. Thank you. I'm glad you liked the touch of romance!