rikki
· 3 September 2006
· Chapter 7: Unexpected Company
Hmmm, let's hope that the dwarves are willing to provide directions out of this mountain before the orcs find the elves again. Though it probably felt good to get back at the dwarves and declare one's grandmother as the witch the dwarves were just complaining about, I am not sure how they are going to take Elledan's news. It seems that the dwarves are more in the know about what is in Moria and not sharing the knowledge. They are certainly pretty calm about orcs and trolls running about the place and with the past history of elves and dwarves I don't think the twins and Estel should be too relaxed about depending on them for help.
I am enjoying your descriptions of the cave, the vaulted ceiling in the main hall and the jewels on the columns. It makes the whole thing seem rather majestic. I have been in the caves in Kentucky and they are pretty impressive without the dwarven carvings. However, I think that by now I would be about ready to climb out the chimney flue to escape the darkness. All that weight of stone above one's head is overpowering sometimes.
Looking forward to the next chapter.
Author's reply
I rather look forward to seeing the dwarves' expressions over Elladan's revelation! It probably wasn't the best way to announce it, but Elladan is weary and worried, and still hasn't forgotten Nain's comment about Elrohir. Orcs, trolls and dragons are a common enemy though, and once the orcs reappear (and they will!) they'll work together.
The descriptions of the caverns are based on a mix of what Tolkien told us, and Moria in the films, though E3 are in a different part.
Jay
Love it! Didn't want it to end...Elrohir did heal himself but is in a weakend state, his father had been right at it being risky.
Good think Elladan is there to lend a hand, its going to be a long road out.
Please update soon...
Author's reply
Yes, Elrohir found out why it's not a good idea to try to heal himself - but at least he can move now, and they have a chance to get out. Eventually ...
I liked the description of Elrohir healing himself. I loved Elladan being the helper and protector of his borhter, too, lending him strength and taking away the pain. Looking forward to the next chapter.
Author's reply
It was only because of Elladan's support and the bond between them that Elrohir was able to heal himself at all - no other healer has managed it. I like to show the bond between the twins, and how it affects them.
Very good Elrohir, now you can at least move and not be a orc's next lunch. Not only that Elrohir got a glimpes of the bolrog.
Author's reply
Yes - at least now they can get out of the mines, even if Elrohir has exhausted himself. Unfortunately, because he's exhausted, he doesn't realise that it was the Balrog he saw!
You had me thinking here whether twinship made it possible for Elrohir to heal himself. Because he can share who he is with Elladan, it's like being two in one - so healing himself is rather like healing his brother, which he has done before. Very incoherently expressed - but it's early and I'm half-asleep and trying to catch up!
Estel is doing very well - his brothers can be extremely proud of him. He's growing up fast. Firing the supports was a good idea and (hopefully) a good distraction. Although having arrows fired at them as they climbed suggests that maybe not a foolproof distraction.
With luck, maybe Mr Evil has taken the attention of the orcs away from the invaders ... but maybe he's just offered a stay of execution. Orcs are nothing if not persistent.
I'm with Elladan - they need to keep moving. I'm just not sure how long Elrohir can do that. Long enough, I hope.
Author's reply
I like your idea about why Elrohir could heal himself - wih the twins, it's a case of two for the price of one (or BOGOF, as we say at work!!) I see it more that he was able to use their bond to draw on Ellladan's strength when his own ran out, though.
Estel is more than making up for his shaky start in this story when he wandered off. He's resourceful and quick-thinking - in fact, developing into Aragorn as we watch.
The glimpse of the Balrog had to be vague, so that Elrohir didn't realise what he'd seen - but it's down there, and after them. So are the orcs. And it's still a long way to the eastern gates ...
demeter d
· 4 August 2006
· Chapter 6: Physician, Heal Thyself
it seems the only kind of healer who could heal himself would be a twin who has someone to give him theenergy needed! Well done. Hmmm... a creature in the dark, surrounded by flame, seemingly burning to death... with a burning sword. To steal a linee from Star Wars, "Luke, we're going to have company"! i know what is coming their way! From literally hanging your characters from cliffs, to leaving your readers hanging!
Author's reply
That's why it's never been done before, of course. It seemed a sensible reason, and a way I could have Elrohir do something no-one else can.
You think you know what the crature is? You're probably right, but I have to remember that I can't let the twins or Estel realise what it is. No-one knew there was a Balrog down there until the Fellowship found it.
Lianna
· 4 August 2006
· Chapter 6: Physician, Heal Thyself
This is certainly getting suspenseful!
The idea that the bond between the twins can be exploited to allow Elrohir to heal himself, even though other Elven healers cannot do this, is really interesting. I would never have thought of that, but it makes sense.
Author's reply
Yes - it's the twin bond that makes it possible, and why even Elrond had never heard of it before. I wanted to put Elrohir in a situation where he *had* to attempt to heal himself, and found out how hard it is.
Well I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed these six chapters and now look forward to reading new ones as they are posted. I like your portrayal of Elladan and Elrohir, very serious warriors, but with that bit of lightheartedness that Tolkien only hints at in his books. Estel is believable as well, a young man just beginning to reach for the eventual greatness he will earn.
Your style also captivates, giving just enough detail, but leaving much to the imagination (wether good or bad *g*) so that the reader can integrate their perspective. I found myself caught up in the tale and wanting to rush (a good thing) to the end and yet also wishing to draw out the experience.
I haven't read or written much in Tolkien's universe of late, but this just might give me that little kick in the muse to return to an outline I've had collecting dust for about a year.
Thanks so much for sharing and I'll be looking for more.
Author's reply
If this story prompts your muse to return I'd be delighted! I'm glad you're enjoying this. The twins are my favourite characters, and I see them as capable, deadly warriors; very close to each other and now to Estel.
It was wondering about Aragorn's first visit to Moria, and the other quote about his 'great deeds' that got me thinking about this story. What had happened then?
More soon, I promise!
Ugh! Why do I get the feeling that Elrohirs dream may come true? Im almost afraid to read the next chapter to find out!
Author's reply
Elladan's the one with foresight, but Elrohir's dream has already come true in a way - he's remembering when Estel had to drug him to keep him quiet when the orcs turned up.
Nice to see Estel's resourcefulness, thinking and being useful esepcially when the twins are tied up with one another. Elrohir pushed himself pretty hard though... at some point one of them might have to sling him over their shoulder and run.
Author's reply
... at some point one of them might have to sling him over their shoulder and run. You could be right - it would make life easier for them! Elrohir still isn't as hale and hearty as he'd like to be.
Estel is doing his Great Deeds now, and generally impressing the twins with his usefulness. He's enjoying it, too!
daw the minstrel
· 3 August 2006
· Chapter 6: Physician, Heal Thyself
So progress, but not out of the woods, er mines, yet. Elven healing is a mystery to me. How do you reckon it worked? It's interesting that Elrohir can heal himself when apparently even Elrond has never done it. The talent must be deep in him.
Author's reply
The whole purpose of this story was to put Elrohir in a situation where he *had* to heal himself. It's only the twin bond that makes it possible though - he can draw on Elladan's support in a way that no one else could. It's why Elrond had never heard of anyone else doing it.
Fire
· 3 August 2006
· Chapter 6: Physician, Heal Thyself
It seem that it has many advantages having a twin. Because of their bond Elrohir is able to heal himself while Elladan helps him, no other healer could have done it I deem.
Estel is a very clever human isn't he, but I guess you have to be growing up amongst elves who can do a lot of his beter than you can.
Author's reply
Yes - it's their bond that has enabled Elrohir to do this. It's why Elrond had never heard of anyone else doing it.
Estel is growing up fast here, learning a lot, and impressing the twins rather than irritating them.
pipinheart
· 20 July 2006
· Chapter 5: Time Runs Out
Love it!
Elrohir is hurt and irritated, and wants to heal himself, if that is a possibility. But the orc's are going to shift the rocks, they need to think fast...
Update soon, can't wait...
Author's reply
Poor Elrohir knows it's his injuries that are holding the others back. He wants to do something - and it needs to be fast.
The next chapter is up now, so you can find out what happens next!
pipinheart
· 20 July 2006
· Chapter 4: Reunion
Esel, was a real help fixing Elrohir up, even though his pack destroyed most of the medicine... and protectiing him as well...Good thing Elladan found them, didn't take too long either...
Author's reply
I told you Estel would improve. He's learning a lot, and is growing up. The twins are impressed with him!
pipinheart
· 20 July 2006
· Chapter 3: Disaster Strikes
Elladan was really hard on Estel, and Elrohir has to remind him he is young. They would have a collapsing roof...Nicly done...Continue Please...
Author's reply
Elladan was scared to death when Estel disappeared - it's no wonder he was angry. Glad you're enjoying this!
pipinheart
· 20 July 2006
· Chapter 2: A Journey In The Dark
Este, should have made sure his brothers were behind him before he left to investigate... Now he is captured...
Great job
Author's reply
Estel has a lot to learn about exploring dangerous places. He will get better, though.
pipinheart
· 20 July 2006
· Chapter 1: An Unseen Menace
Very nice... Elladan, Elrohir, and Estel are going to investigate the shadow, I think they should wait for a patrol to go with them, only danger would lurk there...
Author's reply
Waiting for a patrol would be sensible, but they hope to sneak in unnoticed. You think it will be dangerous? :>) Quite possibly.
grumpy
· 9 July 2006
· Chapter 5: Time Runs Out
Oh, oh, they are out of time, I don't suppose they could build a wall real quick, or find a handy elevator to get Elrohir a lift. Glad that Elladan and Estel got to have their little talk.
Author's reply
That's two things they could try I suppose - but I don't think the orcs will wait that long. What else? (I know,but I'm not telling!)
Elladan felt badly about how he'd treated Estel, and after the roof collapse, when he didn't know if Estel was alive or dead, he felt far worse! At least he can admit when he's in the wrong.
nessa
· 5 July 2006
· Chapter 5: Time Runs Out
I'm so glad that Elladan and Estel are making up. If something horrible had happened while they were at odds, they never would have gotten over it. Its nice seeing what Aragorn was referring to when he said the memory of Moria was very evil. That is certainly proving to be true. I'm sure it is getting more evil yet.
Author's reply
Poor Elladan felt very guilty about yelling at Estel. It's a wise elf who can admit he was wrong!
They're all going to have some bad memories of Moria - and they're not out yet!
Fire
· 4 July 2006
· Chapter 5: Time Runs Out
O boy, this does not look good. Elrohir wounded like that, not much to eat and drink, no easy way to leave the cave and orcs trying to dig through the rubble.
You wrote a very nasty clifhanger so please update soon.
Author's reply
I have to admit to liking cliffhangers ;)
Despite their rather desperate situation, don't forget that all three are brave, resourceful and skilled - even Elrohir, despite his injuries. Don't despair yet!
elliska
· 4 July 2006
· Chapter 5: Time Runs Out
“Do not worry, little brother – there is still time.” Famous last words! Poor Elrohir, he has to be worried that he is holding back the others' escape. And there is not any time--you and your evil cliff hangers, Jay! Well, Estel is certainly going to have plenty of opportunities to prove himself even more than he's already done, it seems. Hurry with the next one!
Author's reply
I've been trying to put myself into each character's place as I write this - and if I was Elrohir, I'd feel very guilty that the other two could easily get out if it wasn't for him. And with so many orcs around, they weren't going to remain undiscovered for long.
At the moment I'm finding the balance between Estel's Great Deeds, but not having him save the twins single-handed - that wouldn't be realistic. Even injured, Elrohir is still a force to be reckoned with.
Bodkin
· 4 July 2006
· Chapter 5: Time Runs Out
Goodness - the picture of Elladan doing a Spiderman over the orcish hordes is very scary! But he would do anything to rescue his brother - even throwing himself into even worse danger.
I'm glad he commended Estel - the boy done good, and deserves to know it.
But they're out of the frying pan and into the fire - back together and splinted up, but no nearer to safety. They might have to give up on trying to find the B... - cause of the trouble - and concentrate on getting back to safety. That in itself should be enough for Estel to do great deeds.
Author's reply
I didn't want to have too many different viewpoints, so didn't show Elladan's spider impersonation. I rather wish I had now! He's sensible enough to know that taking fooloish risks won't help Elrohir - but when he has no choice, he'll do anything to save his brothers. He can also admit when he's in the wrong - a rare quality in males!
I think I'll let them get a very vague glimpse of the B... - but not enough to identify what they've seen.
Nilmandra
· 2 July 2006
· Chapter 5: Time Runs Out
Well, you really are giving Estel a chance to do great deeds. I'm not sure I want to be the twins when Elrond finds out they took Estel into Moria, of all places. Hard spot fir sure, they can't stay and they can't go, and the enemy is upon them.
Author's reply
It was such a tantalising reference! The great deeds, and Elrond being so impressed - I couldn't help wondering what had happened then.
Elrond knows his sons, and knows they can't ignore signs of evil - especially so close to Imladris and Lórien. He knows they'd have to investigate. But what is to happen now??
French Pony
· 2 July 2006
· Chapter 5: Time Runs Out
Two steps forward, one step back. The boys are going to be one sorry mess when they finally come limping back to Imladris. Elrohir seems to be basically all right except for the broken bones -- he is a very lucky Elf. Hard-headed in both sense of the word. Good to see Elladan loosening up a little and beginning to trust Estel. With Elrohir out of commission, he has no choice, and Estel is certainly living up to that trust. They'll need every bit of that newfound teamwork once those Orcs arrive.
Author's reply
Well, it's better progress that one step forward, two back! But we all know they will come out of this eventually - unfortunately, they don't know that!
Elrohir is lucky (though he may not see it that way at the moment) - lucky he wasn't more badly hurt, and very, very lucky Estel was there to save him from the orcs - though he doesn't know about that part yet.
E3 are developing into a formidable team!
daw the minstrel
· 2 July 2006
· Chapter 5: Time Runs Out
Elladan did a dangerous thing when he crawled across that rockface hoping the orcs wouldn't look up. And it sounds as if Elrohir is all but immobilized.
Exciting ending, Jay! I want to see where you take this now.
Author's reply
Poor Elrohir. He's very aware that if it wasn't for him, the other two could get out - and he's wondering what he can do about it. He doesn't want Elladan to take that sort of risk again.
I hope the next chapter won't be so long in coming - the holiday delayed things!