lwarren
· 17 June 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
I DO love Oropher and Idherien! Such good parents and they balance each other perfectly - you can tell they have worked long and hard at making a successful marriage. Idherien especially is so endearing - a strong woman who knows her man and how to deal with his little idiosyncracies (can you spell s-t-u-b-b-o-r-n? LOL) The conversations of each section of the story were so revealing of each character, beginning with Idherien and Thranduil. Oh, she does know her son and he knows it! Then there's Oropher and his doubts, but Idherien helps him see the wisdom in forgetting the fact that this girl is a complete stranger and getting on with the business of knowing her, unless, if course, they wanted to alienate their only son! A wise naneth, indeed! (and I thoroughly enjoyed the little looks at Oropher's courtship of Idherien...talk about the grand rush! *g*) Oropher's little talk in the tree with Laerwen (I love the forest's reaction to her) had me giggling - she will hold her own with these two strong-willed guys, I think! And the wedding - I could almost shiver with anticipation right along with the bride, you wrote that sense of waiting and time crawling by so well! All in all, an eye-opening look at Thranduil's immediate family and his new bride - I enjoyed every letter of every word, Bodkin!
Linda
Author's reply
Oropher definitely needs a strong-willed wife! And one skilled in managing rather difficult males - of the kind who believe they know what is best for all those around them. It's a good thing Oropher controlled his immediate instinct to interfere - and a good thing that his political sense was, in the end, able to register that his son's bride brought certain advantages with her. (And, of course, Laerwen is as tough as any of them. There could be some very interesting confrontations among them. Talk about irresistible forces and immovable objects.)
I'm glad you liked it, Linda. Thank you.
Dot
· 19 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
I was so glad you decided to post this! And you expanded it too – hurrah!
This was gorgeous. I loved seeing Thranduil with his Naneth. And I feel quite sorry for her that she has to move again after finding somewhere she could feel is home. I bet there’s been some interesting discussions with Oropher ;-)
Thranduil’s excitement and touch of pride really come through. I love the suggestion of Oropher’s cleverness too in preventing his son feeling the reluctance that Idherien does by having him involved to such an extent.
Ellyn were funny creatures, she thought. Embarrassed by open affection – but quite indifferent to accusations of intemperate behaviour that would mortify a sensible elleth. I’m laughing at that. How right she is!
Another match-making mother. *sigh* Thranduil’s quite good-natured about it, though. And I love his wicked streak.
I liked the little discussion about Oropher. They each see a different side of him and they’re both right in their assessments. Just goes to show, I suppose, what an intriguing, complicated character he is.
I’m thrilled with the addition of the wedding. What a shock it must have been to Thranduil’s parents! I rather suspect that Oropher isn’t exactly used to his son doing anything quite that much beyond his control.
Idherien made me smile at the way she teases her formidable husband. A bewitched son seemed to be a real possibility to Oropher there for a minute!
I love the glimpse of Oropher and Idherien’s courtship! LOL. It’s no wonder Thranduil turned out the way he did…
I was glad to see that Thranduil and Idherien got to have a proper conversation about it all and she had the chance to see how happy, fulfilled and completely in love he is. What a very poignant thought, though, that he’d never be her son in quite the same way again now that he’s giving himself to someone else.
Oropher found her in the arms of an enormous beech only because the joyous murmur of the leaves and the throb of the tree’s pulse revealed an unusual presence. I love that! She’s such a part of the forest.
He did not, after all, want his son to think he had been interfering. ROTFL! Sure. I’m chuckling too at his thoughts that she should be more anxious to explain herself. Poor Oropher. He does like to have at least some control, doesn’t he? I love that he sets out to question the speed of their betrothal and somehow ends up defending it. He did very well, I thought, not to give in to his temper when she shares her grandmother’s feelings. You can really see his impulsiveness and pride but he also manages to rein himself in and see that ultimately they want the same thing.
She would be Thranduil’s equal and stand with him through adversity as surely as in prosperity. That’s a wonderful description of the partnership that they’ll make. And what more could Oropher want? I thought it was really interesting too to think about how their children will be part of that forest in a way that Oropher never could be.
I really like how Oropher tries to do the best thing then once he’s made up his mind – but still really just wants to hand her over to his wife! I imagine he needed a nap after all that effort…
Oropher had been outraged when Thranduil had declared that he, too, would wear leaves in preference to the gleaming circlet that was one of the few treasures that had followed them from Doriath. Oh that’s wonderful! So that’s why he wears crowns of leaves… And I like that Laerwen and Thranduil are starting new traditions as a pair.
I admit I was glad to see that Laerwen was nervous and excited on the day. She had taken so much in her stride that it was good to see her emotions come to the surface like that. And Idherien is a very comforting presence – she knows what’s important on this day and what doesn’t matter at all.
I’m intrigued by this grandmother. And a little scared :-)
The ending was beautiful and very moving. There’s such hope and possibility. In fact, the whole chapter was just wonderful. I loved it.
Author's reply
Sorry to have taken so long getting back to you! I found that, once I started thinking about expanding the excised section, it just naturally expanded - and poor Oropher's rather bemused presence begged to be added. Poor elf. He can confront enemies without a tremor - but wives and daughters-in-law ...
I tend to think that many of those who escaped the perils of the First Age - Doriath, Sirion, the drowning of Beleriand to name but three! - must have yearned for security and a settle place to call their own. But Oropher, I feel, is restless - perhaps doesn't want to feel too attached to the ephemeral. Idherien doesn't fight with Oropher, I think. She manages him more subtly! (But knows there are time when she has to let him have his head.)
The possession of sons and brothers is enough to show any sensible female that the Venus/Mars thing has some basis in truth! And I can't imagine that ellyn are any different! And match-making comes naturally to mothers, I think, once your children have passed their first millennium. Or so. But she's not pushing - she just doesn't want him ignoring the potential that's out there!
No - for all Thranduil's indulgence in wild Wood-elf ways, he is a respectful son and subject! But true love has a way of coming up unexpectedly - and Oropher was completely sideswiped by that. Not that he objects. In fact, his political sense tells him this is a pretty good move - but just not one he wants rushed. (While I can certainly see that, when on the receiving end of such advice, Oropher would be totally defiant and certain that he knew best.)
And, however much you want your children to grow up and be happy, you do lose them as they take up adult lives. The old 'your son is your son 'til he takes him a wife...' saw has a pretty big element of truth in it. Not just because he is more likely to spend time with his wife's family - not a problem in this case - but because he changes. Grows up, I suppose. Becomes a man ... elf ... instead of your boy. But it's as it should be - and he won't stop loving his mother just because he is now Laerwen's husband. And they will all grow used to the change.
Oropher will find it easier to adjust to having Laerwen as a daughter, I think. Idherien and she will negotiate the first few years very carefully until they find out just how to deal with each other, but Oropher will just take her into his heart - now he has decided that she is part of his family. And he can't help but realise it's good on more than one level.
The crown of leaves just inserted itself after I saw Laerwen wearing jewellery of twined honeysuckle - and I went, 'Hah'! What better reason for Thranduil to adopt the custom! While, for all her oneness with the forest, there is something about weddings that can turn a stone into a gibbering wreck. Idherien will find the experience of looking after Laerwen does a lot for the bond between them, I should think!
The grandmother is one of the first to awaken, I think. One who never left the forests and had no intention of following restless ellyn anywhere. An earth mother sort of figure - forest mother, maybe - dwelling to the east, who is safe because she is so deeply bound to the forest that she is almost invisible and unknown, but whose presence is felt. And as the forests separate into different ranges, divided by farmland and plains and ... whatever, they lose contact with her influence a bit and are adopted by different rulers.
Weddings are an expression of hope, really. And the dramatic irony is inherent in that we know how the Second Age will end, and that Laerwen and Thranduil will be divided to meet again in the Blessed Realm. Eventually.
Thank you, Dot. I'm glad you liked the addition!
perelleth
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
What a satisfactory conclusion! Although I secretly hope that it continues to evolve. Idherien manouevring between the two wilful males in the house was delightful, and I loved Oropher there. And Laerwen is such a match for the proud king! BUt I really really loved the lichen'grey eyes. A wonderful description!
Author's reply
Idherien knows Oropher very well - and, of course, she is Thranduil's mother. She is pretty good at managing both of them - and pretty good at knowing when she needs to let them have their way. I suspect Oropher is very protective of her, even when she would rather he weren't - but she works round it. Laerwen - I don't know how good she will be at managing ellyn. She might be rather more confrontational - although perhaps purely resilient, like a great oak in the wind. She is a good match for Thranduil - and his understanding of and bond with the forest is just about to increase quite ... stunningly, I suspect. I love lichen-grey for the eyes of Silvan elves. (So many shades of colour are possible!) While the Falathrim - and possibly the Sindar - have sea-grey eyes. And the Noldor all the different shades of grey you find in rock.
Thank you, perelleth!
Larner
· 16 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
Amen, and so may it be.
It is a grief that the two of them did not remain together in Middle Earth throughout, although I rejoice that in your look at Aman they found themselves anew there.
A lovely beginning indeed.
Author's reply
A marriage is ... a triumph of hope. We know some of the tragedies that will face the Greenwood over the Second and Third Ages - and know that Thranduil will face the end of the Third Age and as much of the Fourth as he spends east of the sea without his parent and wife - but he will continue to battle on - because he knows what he does it right.
And they will be reunited. When the time is right.
lwarren
· 16 March 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
*sighs with the delight of it all* Oh Bodkin, ever since you introduced 'the Lady' in Far Horizons, I have been fascinated by her character. Mystical, magical, fey, powerful...Laerwen is something else and a perfect match for Thranduil! Although, I think maybe they both grew into that power that seems to emanate from them in later stories...hmmmmm.
Well, anyway I loved this first meeting between these two. LOVE at first sight indeed! :-) I loved Faroth, the tree flyer - you could sense his excitement and joy and freedom in flying through the trees and his patient horse following below LOL was just a perfect touch. Laerwen's grandmother - wow! No wonder Faroth almost fell off that branch...the whispered stories of his people come to life! I loved that she was checking out this 'Sinda boy' that has caught her granddaughter's eye (and heart). Then that meeting between the two, when Laerwen steps out of the trees and becomes real. *sighs again* I am pea-green with envy at the way you are able to describe the forest and the way the elves interact with it, Bodkin - you paint such marvelous pictures with your words and the forest becomes a character all its own. The whole story is just great - we get little glimpses of Oropher and his wife and hints of great events to come! Wonderful...absolutely wonderful!
Linda
Author's reply
Oh yes, I think the power took time to twine itself round their essential personalities. Although their marriage alone probably exposed them both to different strengths and brought out elements in themselves they were barely aware of up until that point. And - having the Lady already in my head - Laerwen had to be more than a simple elleth! She was the heir of a Silvan culture and power that the Sindar barely touched. Even Oropher doesn't work at quite such an instinctive level, I think.
Faroth - just announced himself and then refused to take anything very seriously. Except, that it, an unexpected meeting with an elf who was more myth than reality, even to her own people. I have a feeling that she generally dwells in vast forests to the east - and made an unusual journey west to check out these Sindar princes who ruled the Greenwood and see whether Thranduil was suitable as a match for her granddaughter.
One of the things I love about writing elves is the possibilities inherent in the relationship they have with the living world - they interact on a level that is just not there when dealing with other species.
I'm glad you enjoyed it, Linda, and I'm so pleased to hear from you. I hope the kiddies aren't putting you off your own writing, because I'm still looking forward to hearing more about Legolas and his beautiful golden mare! And the delightful family they found on their adventures.
elliska
· 15 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
I totally did not expect to see another episode of this, so that was a fun surprise and I loved it. Thranduil with his mother was wonderful. And Oropher's reaction to Thranduil's betrothed! Hehehe. I bet Oropher doesn't like surprises that infringe on his control. But I thoroughly enjoyed seeing him interact with her. And the wedding scene was wonderful--indeed a little sad that Laerwen had no close family there. But beautiful.
(This could certainly be even further expanded--hint, hint. I love reading these characters from you.) :-)
Author's reply
The first section of the second chapter started life as the first section of the first chapter - but it just didn't fit! And having spent so long deciding on Mrs Oropher's name, it seemed a shame not to use it - and then it developed, as things have a way of doing!
Oropher would have, doubtless, found it a great deal easier to deal with an ellon - but I think he has a very gentle streak when it comes to ellyth and Laerwen is, after all, Silvan. But he doesn't like feeling that he's not in charge - probably dates back to his earlier Doriath-related trauma!
And the trouble with introducing close family for Laerwen is that there's a whole other history demanding to be told! I suspect that her grandmother lives far to the east, much nearer Cuivienen. And that, at some time, when the forests stretched unbroken across the world, the Greenwood was also part of her ... sphere of influence. But she's happy to let Oropher rule there. As long as he looks after it properly.
It might grow. Things do. Especially little acorns. Thank you, elliska.
Redheredh
· 15 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
Oh, how glad I am you decided to post this! You really had me wondering what the excised pages contained. :D It's really great stuff!
Idheren is one lovely lady and her family is fortunate to have her. Now, that we know her a little, it would be nice to see her join Oropher in the Blessed Realm.
... someone in who he was more than interested. *g* A mother knows.
I also liked her being indignant that Laerwen would not have anyone to stand with her at her wedding.
But best was, Laerwen losing her cool and being nervous about actually getting wed... and anticipating the rewards. That was wonderful.
Lovely that Idherien wished for them to live happily ever after. Terrible sad and ironic for us who know the future, though.
Now, I could go on forever about Oropher and what a sweet personality you have made for him. ;) Because I do like your rendition very much. Who could not,eh? :D But ya know, you have spurned me to work on my own Oropher episode that has been languishing. Which I had not thought I would post before the next chapter of CSING. But, the next chapter is not progressing very quickly either. Give me a couple more days and Hrassa's next tale will be finished. Only because, like you, I find other pages of it will have to come later because they do not fit in now and I should not wait on them. So, thanks for the nudge...
I love everything you write, Bodkin. I hope you know that by now. :)
Author's reply
Well - once this was removed from the original story, it just insisted on developing into a little more! And Oropher, who wasn't going to be in it at all, made an appearance - so, in the end, it probably worked out better like this! (It was frustrating to lose it - because I had spent so long on finding just the right name for she-who-was-formerly-only-called Mrs Oropher!) And now she is named, I have to wonder why she has taken so long to return to life in the Blessed Realm.
In a way, it might be rather good - in the long run - that Laerwen's family keep their distance. It will make her more part of Oropher's family and more like a daughter to him and Idherien. And for such a cool elleth to lose her nerve! But then, getting married is a pretty big thing - especially as an elf. Dramatic irony - no happy ever after. And even without Laerwen's death, we have the sheer awfulness of Dagorlad and the Wood's losses there.
Oropher - what I like about him is that he isn't perfect. He can be huffy and arrogant and pig-headed - but he means well and he has a very soft streak when it comes to family - and he is chockful of honour and principle. And a seriously hard worker!
And I'm delighted to see the Oropher story - it's brilliant and I'm hoping to get enough time to review it later - and I love his beloved! (She would so come back to him in the BR! And possibly stands a better chance of dealing with death than many others.)
Thank you, Redheredh. I'm flattered!
Jay of Lasgalen
· 14 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
‘And may you live in happiness together until the world is remade.’ That's a beautiful sentiment, and all the sadder because we know they don't actually have that long together.
I like to see Thranduil like this, so young and so much in love. And poor Oropher - neither his wife, his son, nor his daughter-in-law take any notice whatsoever of his reservations!
Author's reply
That's always the hope at the beginning of a life together - and it must be even more so for elves, who do have until the end of Arda. But the irony of knowing that Laerwen will not live to see her son grow up ... it's sad - but they will be reunited eventually.
Poor Oropher! But I think his family see the elf below the surface - he wants the best for his family and he hides his gentle side under a fierce exterior. And he has this shiny hard vision that sets people in groups - approved / loathed - his people / the enemy - and then gets annoyed when individuals refuse to fill his stereotypes. About the only things that we know about him are that he was stubborn, proud and headstrong. But I do feel he would be putty in the hands of his wife - and possibly, later, his daughter-in-law - even as he tries to keep them away from anything nasty.
daw the minstrel
· 14 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
What a great picture of young Thranduil and his parents. I love the way Thranduil is picking up bad wood elf habits. Showing respect for tradition indeed! But he follows his mother's instructions well and does seek a bride, although her arrival apparently caused a fair amount of consternation in the parental units.
And Oropher wouldn't want his son to think he'd been interfering, oh no! LOL. I like the reaction of the tree to both Oropher and his Silvan daughter-in-law to be. And Laerwen is so composed. Of course, this is her woodland. Really it's a great match. I know Oropher doesn't want to think politically--or want anyone to think he's thinking politically--but it makes great political sense.
I enjoyed this, Bodkin.
Author's reply
Thank you, daw. Thranduil arrived in the Greenwood, I think, young enough to be very ... receptive ... to bad wood elf habits! And he would hate you to think that following his mother's instructions was deliberate! Pure chance that Laerwen decided to move their acquaintance beyond the dream level just then. (And his mother still had to wait a year or two to find out about it.)
Oropher would be wise to avoid any appearance of interfering! Nothing sends children more determinedly in the opposite direction. And - much as he wouldn't like the thought to be obvious - this is a terrific match. Politically excellent. But wouldn't Oropher hate anyone to suspect that he was reacting in a manner I'm sure he would consider to be Noldo! Oropher is close to the forest - feels at home there - but I think his response to it is more ... male as well as less Silvan. Laerwen is part of the forest - a bond that will strengthen Thranduil's link to it and be part of Legolas's genetic inheritance.
I'm glad you liked it, daw.
French Pony
· 14 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
Go, Laerwen! She proves to be just as skilled at courting the parents as at courting the son. Perhaps more so, because she and Thranduil seemed to hit it off right away, without much courting involved. But really, Laerwen seemed to win Oropher over with charm and a smile on her face, and without so much as breaking a sweat. That's a talent, though I suspect that Oropher is one of those big tough guys who has a secret inner marshmallow heart that no one cares to acknowledge.
Author's reply
I think maybe Laerwen and Thranduil were aware of each other in some way before they actually met ... she was certainly aware of him, or why would her grandmother have come to investigate the object of her interest? But no, they didn't really court - instant flames. But she's not really so naive that she doesn't realise that it is important for her beloved's parents to accept her. And I tend to think that Oropher is one of those people who appear very fierce and single-minded, yet who are managed very efficiently by the women in their lives. A daughter's husband (had he a daughter, that is) would have had a much harder time convincing Oropher that he was worthy.
Oropher has ... shining absolutes - and then gets annoyed because people persist in not abiding by his stereotypes. The sort who dislikes Noldor because they're Noldor - and then comes to like each individual Noldo he meets (... well - post sons-of-Feanor, anyway) because he sees they are just people. And then sometimes holds that against them. I like Oropher for his complexity and confusion - and his honesty and hidden gentleness.
Nieriel Raina
· 14 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
This was great, Bodkin. I loved this look into Oropher and his family. Thank you so much for sharing it.
NiRi
Author's reply
Thank you, NiRi. Oropher's wife was robbed of her first real appearance - and name - by the cut. I think he felt that was unfair and released a little more information in order that we might meet her. (Not that I claim him as a muse, or anything.) I'm glad you liked it!
Raksha The Demon
· 14 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
I loved the details of the preparations for Thranduil and Laerwen's wedding, down to her soft green gown, very appropriate!
Author's reply
Well - forest colours. She wouldn't even think of wearing anything else. I rather liked her determination to wear jewellery of real flowers - and Thranduil has to have got that habit from somewhere!
vaske
· 14 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Little Acorns Grow
I'm glad you decided to post it anyway:)
‘And you must tell me what I am to seek.’
She could not resist giving in to a wisp of mischief. ‘A bride,’ she declared.
Thranduil was certainly an obedient boy!
Author's reply
He didn't do it on purpose! I don't think Thranduil really wanted to ... put limits on the fun he was having with his friends. But when lightning strikes - there's not much even Thranduil can do about it!
It was rather fun to twist it round and think about what his parents would think of love at first sight. They could not have helped, I think, being cautious - and wanting time to see whether this girl really deserved their son.
Thank you!
elliska
· 10 March 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
Oh I am so happy to have found this! Thranduil is wonderful in it, I loved his interaction with the others in his scouting party and I was laughing about his reaction to living in a hole in the ground, and then I got to the mysterious woman. Wonderful! This was just incredible! I just loved it!
Author's reply
Thank you, elliska! And seeing what a gorgeous Thranduil you write, I'm glad you liked it! It originally started with a section where Thranduil and his mother were talking - and I had to take it out ... But that has turned into a little sapling of its own that might get posted at some point. It's interesting, too, how having written people at different stages then ties your hands when you go back to write them earlier in their lives. Laerwen had to be Silvan and powerful - or she couldn't have become the Lady of Far Horizons.
perelleth
· 1 March 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
I have been thinking of this tale for the whole week. I really really love the fairy-talesque flavour of it. Even for Sindar wood elfs were strange stuff... and the way THranduil´s was picked up by his bride'to'be and her grandmother has a lot to do with the prince in fairy tales and the rincess of his dreams. THat was what he had been searching for. I really loved that, and, of course, the way you write trees...and the feeling of the living forest. This was really superb, Bodkin, enthralling.
Author's reply
You are, to a large degree, responsible for some of my thoughts about sustainability and the relationship between elves and the forest! While, once you start thinking about trees, they clearly have different personalities ...
It's interesting to turn things round sometimes - and wonder what made the Sindar rule of Lasgalen more acceptable to Oropher than the Noldor kingdoms of Beleriand. It couldn't possibly just be because he was the one in charge, now could it? And Thranduil is intelligent enough - and close enough to the forest - to wonder about these things. (Although I think his strong bond to the forest came partly through his bond with his wife - and that's interesting, too.)
Thank you, Perelleth. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Nieriel Raina
· 1 March 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
Absolutely beautiful! Thank you for sharing such a lovely tale.
NiRi
Author's reply
Thank you, Nieriel. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Maybe sometime I'll get round to taking the part that was edited out - and introducing Thranduil's parents to the story!
Ceana
· 26 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
That was absolutely beautiful. I loved it. What a wonderful story about how Legolas' parents met. You write the Elves' connection to nature so beautifully. Actually, rather magically. Well done.
Author's reply
Thank you, Ceana. Legolas's mother appears in ... odd bits of story here and there and she is clearly a Silvan elf with a very strong connection with the forest. It was interesting to speculate on how she first came into Thranduil's life!
JastaElf
· 26 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
OMG this is superb... so beautifully done, so lovely, so well written....
‘Tell me all you know of the Sindar boy of Elu’s house.’
*shivers* OMG what a great line.... :-)
I adore this. It is gorgeous. The characterizations are brilliant, the story perfect... you continue to stun and delight me!!
Thank you SO much....
Author's reply
Thank you, Jasta! There was a moment when this was frustrating me dreadfully - it just wasn't going anywhere. But if you like it, it can't be that bad!
I'm so pleased you enjoyed it. And very flattered by the praise!
Dot
· 24 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
I can’t believe you were going to scrap this. It’s just perfect. But I’m sorry if it was frustrating for you – that was probably my fault for choosing Thranduil :-/
I really love this story. First off, I adore Faroth! What a great character. He’s hilarious with all of his my lord-ing Thranduil. And he’s just so full of life.
The opening is beautiful. There’s such a sense of contentment. I love how you give the types of trees different characteristics and voices.
I like this Thranduil who takes his task very seriously but not himself. His thoughts about the difference between Silvan and Sindar are very interesting. These Silvan intrigue me! I’m enchanted by the image of them disappearing back into the forest if they felt they were putting a strain on any one part.
What a fascinating discussion between Corudír and the other elves. It’s really rather moving to glimpse the early days of Oropher’s settlement in the Greenwood when they were so determined and so hopeful to just dwell peacefully in the forest, becoming part of it. You’re so good at the practicalities that are involved too. I think I’d be useless at that! Finding the balance between what the Silvan want and what the Sindar need must be incredibly difficult.
I was starting to wonder too if there were any settlements of elves there already when they hadn’t come across any. I like how you have Thranduil worry that he and his people might be seen as intruders. It seems a horrific thought to him to behave like the Exiles. And he shows such wisdom and insight to the needs of people and balancing that with the land around them.
I absolutely love these descriptions: The oak hummed reassuringly, its steady pulse finding its echo in his blood and relaxing him to the point that he began to drift into a pleasant haze. […] The throb of the oak, the humming of a canopy of bees, the chirruping song of a hundred watchful small birds combined to soothe him like a lullaby. He sighed, leaning his fair head back against the rough bark and drew in a grateful breath of sun-warmed green. Just gorgeous. It’s so elfy and comforting.
The next part, with Thranduil waking to find himself being watched, was delightfully unsettling! I had to stop myself from scrolling down at that point…
In fact, he would not be at all surprised to discover that his father had decided this would be an excellent lesson for his only son in the impossibility of satisfying everyone. LOL!! Nice glimpse of Oropher’s character there!
Gosh I love Faroth. I actually found myself smiling at him just because he seemed so full of joy as he raced through the trees. And I really like the idea that suddenly this all felt completely right as they began to follow Thranduil’s instincts and go east.
And look what he’s stumbled across! I nearly fell off my seat when he leapt right onto the branch where this lady that he’d only heard tales of was standing.
It was a wonderfully magical moment when Thranduil spots Laerwen. I just love the idea that he’s known within himself who he was seeking and now he’s found her. It just goes to show the role played by fate too. These two were destined to meet. And I suppose that proves that Oropher’s people are meant to stay in this forest.
‘You have brought a carrot?’ LOL!! Of course, the moment didn’t stay magical for long :-)
I’m grinning here at the sight of Thranduil so completely besotted. She’s so beautiful and foreign and light-hearted and he’s completely overcome. I laughed when he realised that he didn’t even know her name. I hadn’t actually noticed that – there could be no doubt that this is the same Lady of the woods in Aman.
Faroth’s teasing about ellyth and grandchildren was rather close to the bone! I was beginning to think that we wouldn’t see Laerwen again in this story, even though she’s clearly been filling Thranduil’s thoughts since that one brief encounter.
Poor Faroth! Obviously he knew they’d had an interest in Thranduil but his friend said nothing. LOL, what a surprise the proposal must have been!
But what a beautiful, perfect ending. The whole story was just lovely. I love seeing this side of Thranduil and especially seeing glimpses of him alone and content amongst he trees. And it feels like such a privilege to witness the first meeting between him and Laerwen. What a powerful pair they’ll make. Clearly, the females in her family are very influential. You’ll have to show us more of the two of them together :-) Thank you so much for this story. I’m sure I’ve left out loads but I love it. It’s one to be read over and over.
Author's reply
Thank you, Dot! There's nothing wrong with wanting Thranduil - nothing at all! And once I removed the first chunk it did (I thought) hang together better.
I must admit I liked Faroth, too! I think I have a collection of irreverent sidekicks - a hero needs a friend - but Faroth appeals to me. While trees juse are different. Oaks are strong and slow and dignified, while birches are gossipy. Even Ents show the difference between the trees they herd - Quickbeam was hasty (wasn't he?)
And I don't know how it is - all the musings about journeys east and groups of elves assuming authority are just fascinating. I wonder if Oropher ever paused to see himself as taking up a role like Finrod ... I doubt it. And moving any large group of people is so massively complicated - the logistics of it, especially in delicate environments, must have made even elves tear out their hair.
Thranduil (in my stuff) is old enough to remember Doriath (just) - and will have been traumatised by its destruction. And then, of course, he is Oropher's son - he is bound to have absorbed a fair bit of his attitude towards the Exiles. While, on the other hand, he remembers the Valar's host and has seen, perhaps, that lumping everybody into stereotypes is not a good thing for anyone involved ... Perhaps he is searching for a role, too. And I like to think of Oropher putting in a bit of a lesson that being the one in charge isn't easy!
And thank you - I do like writing descriptive stuff. Evocative. (It's like writing poetry. Which I quite like attempting as much as I dislike reading.)
Laerwen had to be of a powerful Silvan family - she is, after all, the Lady! And I loved playing with the thought of the Silvan having a very strongly matriarchal, Earth-mother streak. To go with their elusive streak! (I think her grandmother rather liked Faroth. And, probably, Thranduil.)
I think fate and destiny played a big role in the lives of the big players. Thranduil needs a strong bond to the forest if he is to keep it together through the Third Age - and Laerwen will strengthen his connection far more than he can imagine. (The thought leapt in my head when I was writing something or other that Oropher's mother was totally Sindar - close kin to Elu, possibly a sister or a niece (females being so little mentioned that there could be dozens of them) - and his father was actually a green elf who died with Denethor. I don't know if there is anything to say either way!)
And magical moments cry out for humour! I think they both knew before they ever met - and I sneakily liked giving her control! Thranduil is such a strong character that it was rather fun making him wait for Laerwen's arrival. And I can see why he wouldn't want to speak of her - treasuring everything about their one meeting. Faroth must have wondered about his interrogation, but I doubt he expected this!
I'm glad you liked the story, Dot. Happy birthday and many of them! May you long cherish Thranduil ... and Ithilden.
Redheredh
· 22 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
Simply wonderful. Their meeting was not just any meeting! I do so love your writing! And then you follow that stunning moment with such gentle humor. ;) Ah, they just knew they could find no one better to love! Heh, it was not the robin's song that I heard when Thranduil spoke Laerwen's name, but Tony's songs from West Side Story. Thranduil's silence in order to have her all to himself was very romantic.
Your wood-elves are so natural. They come across as uncontrived creatures and true forest-dwellers. Although I admit, I think this tree-walking thing (wherever it came from) is silly. What you had to say about both Sindar and Silvan is fascinating and done so entertainingly that one craves to be further informed. Interesting how you paralleled the Sindar to the Noldor along with a reversal by this time having Thranduil legitimized in a way by Laerwen as Galadriel was by her marriage to Celeborn.
Laerwen will be perceived as a force of nature, as any powerful female always tends to be perceived by males. ;) Of course, the Silvan would give her the respect nature deserves.
I am so glad you did not set this story aside! Thanks to Dot, too, for getting one year older!
Happy Birthday to you, Dot! And may you have many more - so we get many more of these lovely stories!
Author's reply
Thank you, Redheredh! Well - Laerwen was 'the Lady'. She seemed more than just a simple maiden of the forest - and she and Thranduil were just meant to be - (at least, she thought so!) And Thranduil is rather a force himself - she's a good match for him.
These Wood-elves are very much part of the land they chose, I think - and that means being good stewards of the forest. And it is interesting to think of the parallels between the Noldor's journey east and that of the Sindar. I imagine Oropher as being part-Silvan, too - (it came to me when I was writing something or other that his mother was close kin to Elu - sister or niece - and his father was a green elf, who died with Denethor. It just felt right!)
Well, I doubt that all Silvan elves spent all their time running through the trees – but lots of arboreal animals manage to leap quite easily from tree to tree. It depends on the sort of forest they’re in. I suspect elflings would do their best to turn it into a game – and, really, being able to operate in another dimension would be far too useful to warriors for them not to use the trees. Being above your enemy and obscured from his sight is a pretty standard military technique (I think). But if you couldn’t go from tree to tree, being stuck in one would become a trap – so I do think that elves would have learned to use their speed, grace and balance to take advantage of closely-grown trees. And Faroth would just find it such fun – like an endless adventure playground.
It's also interesting to speculate on (with the force of nature thing) the Silvan perhaps being more matriarchal than patriarchal.
This story just didn't feel right at all - until I ended up dumping the first three pages. Which was a shame, because I quite liked them - but they changed the focus. And birthday stories are a great excuse to play in slightly different playgrounds!
LeRouret
· 22 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
Oh, charming, charming! I love your portrayal of Thranduil, and the merest shadow of his father Oropher. And to have the elleth come to him in that fashion was perfect: no explanations, no apologies needed; the barest words essential, their hearts already as one. Perfect!
There was so much good stuff to unpack in this fic I'm having a hard time nailing it down to one or two instances. I loved the differences you outlined between Silvan and Sindar, and Thranduil's attempts to reconcile the two; I enjoyed his thoughts on dipolomacy, his friendship with Faroth, his maturity dealing with Corudir, and the lure of the forest and the folk within that drew him to his final earthly destination. I also loved how the oaks spoke to him and comforted him, how reserved he was, his secret thread of humor. You portrayed Thranduil exactly how I've always seen him, and that recognition made the story that much more enjoyable to me. In particular this phrase - "He, at least, had no desire to repeat the errors of the Exiles by presenting his people as better and wiser than those whose lands they would share – and being graciously prepared to share their wisdom with their inferiors." - showed wisdom and insight, a necessary ingredient in so powerful an elven king.
Thank you for offering us a glimpse of Greenwood the Great before the coming of the Necromancer! It is a soothing image, and one I will carry with me all day.
Author's reply
Thank you, LeRouret. Oropher tends to take over a bit too much, given half a chance, so Thranduil was quite glad he kept to the background! I like the idea that elves recognise the person who is right for them - and who needs words when it's that simple!
It was interested to think of the parallels between the two journeys east and what made them different. It has to be the willingness to adapt, I think, and respect the culture of the people they met. Thranduil had a strong connection to the forest - and he would have had to spend time developing that. Although the marital bond with Laerwen won't have done that any harm! I'm sure the forest welcomed him even more as her husband!
I enjoyed playing in the Greenwood - and I'm pleased you enjoyed the story enought to want to hold the image.
Larner
· 22 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
Now, this indeed has me questioning. Obviously an Entwife is involved; but have we a case here of a Maia that takes the shape of an Entwife to give birth to Laerwen, or who has fostered Laerwen in order to see her wed to the proper one once she sees him, or what?
Whatever the answer to my questions, I still find myself loving this story.
I read it earlier today, but for some reason the ability of my ISP to access several of my LOTR links has been interrupted frequently over the past week, and it's taken hours to get back on to leave a review.
And I love Faroth running through the paths of the trees while his long-suffering horse races the deer trails below him. Such a Elvish thing to do!
Author's reply
No Entwives, I'm afraid - although wouldn't that make an interesting twist! Laerwen in Far Horizons is seen as 'the Lady' and has a very close bond with the forest - enhancing Thranduil's power and standing among the Silvan. I see her as coming from the oldest and most powerful of Silvan families - her grandmother being one of those who awoke at Cuivienen and chose not to leave the lands of her birth. She is so closely bound with the forest that I doubt much happens that she doesn't know - and she is one who would never sail. She came, I decided in the end, simply to check out Thranduil and see if he was acceptable as a husband for her granddaughter - she couldn't live in the Greenwood, really, as she's too powerful - Oropher wouldn't have been king if she was around. But she isn't seen, isn't really known - she is just there. I had a - er - revelation some time ago that Oropher's father was Silvan and his mother was the one who was close kin to Elu Thingol - sister, perhaps, or niece - (I think there is little enough information about Oropher that you can do what you want with his background) - so Thranduil is a quarter-Silvan.
Faroth just presented himself in all his irreverence and Silvan joy in the forest. Such a character - I loved him instantly! And his horse shares my fondness - he really doesn't mind trying to keep track of his mad rider!
My net connection keeps cutting out these days - it drives me to the edge! I thought the net was pointless when it was first devised, but I've come to enjoy my connection to the world wide web!
French Pony
· 21 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
I'd say that was definitely a productive outing for Thranduil there.
I like seeing the different levels of cultural encounter here between the Sindar, the Silvan who live with them, and the Silvan who live deep in the forest. You can really see the process of the Sindar adapting to their new Silvan lifestyle, with some more willing to do so than others.
Author's reply
Very productive! Although I get the sense that Laerwen had been aware of him for a while - and had no intention of letting him slip through her fingers.
Culture would make a difference, wouldn't it? The Sindar are more used to being settled - while the most Silvan of the Silvan are probably perpetual drifters. Laerwen comes from the most Silvan of them all, I think - whose relationship with the forest is the most mystical, but she is prepared to bridge the gap between the different peoples - for luuurrrvvveee - and, incidentally, increasing both Thranduil's power and standing.
meckinock
· 21 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
This was really lovely, Bodkin. The distinction between the communication styles of the various species of trees was ingenious - kind of like the distinction between the Silvan and Sindarin Elves. Good thing Thranduil is receptive to such differences!
Author's reply
Trees are quite different really - not just in their looks, but in the way they grow and age. It would affect the way they communicate, I think. The Ents, too - Quickbeam was thought of as 'hasty', wasn't he? And Thranduil is perceptive and adaptable enough to bridge the gap between the Silvan and Sindar. Good thing, too! Otherwise Laerwen might not have been captivated by him! Thank you, meckinock!
Nilmandra
· 21 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Great Oaks
Now that is love at first sight! And to heck with those Noldorin customs of waiting a year. LOL.. well done! I like Thranduil and Laerwen's meeting.
Author's reply
Well - I suppose they waited more than a year in some ways! Laerwen took a while to arrive, and I don't think Thranduil wants to give her the chance to disappear into the forest again! Perhaps this is another of those relationships that is Meant. Thank you, Nilmandra!