The Karenator
· 23 September 2003
· Chapter 6: Negotiating
Daw,
Another very interesting chapter. So,Turgon is making plans again. I just can't get a handle on his parents. I know they love him to the best of their ability and we see in Prodigal Sons a brief glance into their grief. Still, I can't decide if he simply would received no punishment or if they are just terribly ineffective in their attempts. Plus, he seems charmed in that he never gets caught. I suppose it really doesn't matter since the end results are the same. But I always find myself trying to picture their reaction if he did get caught. Turgon, also, knows Legolas well. He knows how to manipulate him into doing what he wants. The part where he admits that Legolas knows more about the woods and hunting, while it is true, also strikes me as a ploy to play on Legolas's loyalty and sense of responsibility to his friends. So Ithilden meets Alfirin for the first time and he says nothing! Well, he does turn all domestic inside as his eyes follow her. Now we know what the man in the woods was up to. Or I think I do. When all this comes to light, Legolas is going to feel terrible he didn't mention seeing the man during their outing. Of course, he had bigger worries at the time. Adar was staring him down. I think Thranduil sending Ithilden to the dwarves as messenger is a great insight to what his reaction might be later when Gollum escapes. He has a similar reaction and sends Legolas to Imladris. Putting that in gives us a look into the standards he holds for his sons. (That is, of course, assuming that the reason he sends Legolas was because Legolas had something to do with guarding Gollum and the responsibility falls on his shoulders. I guess we don't know for certain, but it's as good a guess as any I have read.) Ithilden comparing the dwarven leader to Thranduil was good for a chuckle. I think Ithilden is right. Thranduil would not be pleased. The description of the dwarves was well done. You conveyed a good sense of their personalities. They are as protective of their realm as the elves are of theirs. And they are as angry as the elves at the realization that there is a liar in their midst. Good for them! I expect no less of them and you show how much pride they take in their work. A very good chapter. I always look forward to your updates. Karen
Nilmandra
· 23 September 2003
· Chapter 6: Negotiating
Turgon remains unbelievably believable - he didn't get into trouble, has no concept of danger, has no fear or respect for adults - one is torn between feeling very sorry for him and wanting th smack him! It must be hard for parents to let their children be around him!
Ithilden comes off perfect. I love that he met Alfirin! He is still seeking Ada's approval and yet is very confident and cool all on his own.
The dwarves were very dwarvish, too.
Jay of Lasgalen
· 21 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
Daw, I've been lax about reviewing lately, please forgive me!
The elflings in this chapter have no concept of danger, do they? Wandering about a dangeous forest at night, with no one knowing where they are! I'm not surprised that Annael's father looked frightened - he was probably thinking about how he would have to explain to Thranduil that he'd 'lost' Legolas!
I still like your Thranduil, even when he's teling Legolas off - he even gives a cuddle in the end. But who was the mysterious man in the clearing? What is he up to? It sounds like he is collecting swords, but who from? I'm intrigued!
Jay
naneth
· 19 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
There were two things about this chapter that gave me pause. The first was the reaction of Legolas to those simple, ordinary things you do in a home. How different his life is from his friends'homelife. Some part of my brain knows that life is different for royalty, sports superstars, television and movie stars, but I guess I've never really thought about how very different life would really be for those folks. Myself-I'd miss the trips to Target and
Wal-Mart!
The other thing that caused me to pause and reflect was the fact that Legolas had no fear of the forest at night. That really made me feel sorry for Thranduil! I know how frustrated I get when I talk to my children about a particular danger they might face and they tell me that I'm making a "big deal out of nothing". It frustrates me so much to know the danger but be unable to make them clearly see the danger I do! Parenting isn't for cowards, as a very wise doctor says.
Can't wait to see what happens next!
Sekhet
· 19 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
Hello Daw
I'm so sorry I've been tardy in commenting on this story - RL has got in the way of me doing much in the way of reading on the net.
But I'm SSOOOO glad I tuned in tonight. Three bad boys - but such degrees of badness! Turgon is such a charmer. I just loved it that when he showed that uncharacteristic uncertainty, Legolas was instantly aware of it and that the only cure was to ensure Turgon had his way. A manipulative little charmer, in fact! Legolas is really quite clear eyed about him, yet helpless to resist - you can't help but understand Thranduil's concern about how Turgon is able to lead Legolas astray; and poor Annael just gets pulled along in their wake. Such presaging of the future.
Nice look into Annael's homelife, and Legolas's unfeigned envy of its simplicity. The bit about the under-tunic was priceless, and a nice compliment both to Legolas and to the way his father is raising him, that he's not arrogant and haughty.
Am wondering mightily about the man they saw and if (when?) Legolas will think to mention it and put Thandruil on his guard. I'm impressed by the way you're conveying strength under pressure - Thranduil is strong, but there's a storm coming, and his careful stewardship of his kingdom is a noble thing.
I did enjoy his disciplining of Legolas and the gut-wrnching horror he felt at the way the child put himself into needless peril. Alas, we know that it'll be a few years yet before Legolas grows out of that!
Great, great stuff.
Thank you!
Sekhet
Rorrah
· 19 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
I'm amused by the trio planning their outing.
Step 1. Present bad idea.
Step 2. Acknowledge that it won't work
Step 3. As an academic challenge, work out the problems
Step 4. Realize it could work with the modifications, and implement
Step 5. Remember much later that inherent in step one was the word BAD.
Know whats funny, some people never grow out of that.
Enjoyed this chapter a lot!
Rorrah
Dot
· 19 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
Well, Turgon certainly does have a talent for planning mischief, doesn’t he?! I love the way the other two offer vain arguments while knowing all along they’d end up agreeing to his plan. After all, his logic always does seem sound at the time! It’s quite sad, really, because he has such a quick mind that it could be put to much better use….
I have to say, I felt quite sorry for Ithilden. He is going to so much trouble and is so grateful that his people can be better protected and in the meantime his little brother & co are wandering around the forest by night with nothing other than bows that they can’t even use properly yet. Hmm, and should I be suspicious about Rudd?!
I loved the dinner scene in Annael’s house. Even though my mouth is watering at the thought of fried fish and mushrooms…! I’m glad Annael’s mother treats Legolas as she does her own son and sends him to cut asparagus and dry dishes. The bit about the undertunic was really interesting – Legolas seems so oblivious to the clearest differences between him and his friends. All his observances seem to favour Annael’s lifestyle. I guess he just has to learn to appreciate what he has himself. I had to laugh at the line “He put his dirty clothes in a basket at home, and clean ones reappeared periodically.” Typical children! It reminds me of my younger brother – it was his birthday the other day and he told me he wanted clothes as a present but when I asked him where he usually buys his clothes he said he didn’t know, that they usually just appear in his wardrobe......and he’s 21!
You did a great job with the hunting scene – the landscape did almost seem magical and I completely got caught up in their excitement! And that bit with the man and the swords (was it swords?)… What’s going on?!! Was that Rudd? Are they deceiving the elves? *taps foot impatiently* Well?!
I nearly fell off my chair when Siondel caught them! I wonder how he knew they had sneaked out… Possibly their suspicious behaviour at dinner, I suppose. Hopefully his anger will make them see how dangerous the situation was – it’s usually more effective when an even-tempered person loses the head rather than someone like......Thranduil?!
I always love when you write an angry Thranduil – you get into his head so that we know what he’s thinking and even hear the little things that he observes! It makes it so involving and I always feel I have one up on the person being chastised because I know what Thranduil really thinks! Poor Legolas, he seems to have learned (yet another) lesson, at least for now. Although, if elves could go grey I think Thranduil would be snow white by now…:)
Mirkwoodmaiden
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 1: Desirable Weapons
Daw!
I've just read the first chapter, but having read your other stories about a young Legolas, I felt like I was visiting welcome old friends! Your characters are so real and the Mirkwood you write about is so vivid.
When Turgon was suggesting that they go out hunting the buck, I was saying, "That Turgon, he's never had much sense and yet Legolas listens to him!" sighing exasperatedly. LOL!!!
I love the warm relationship Legolas has with Thranduil and you've retained Thranduil's crustiness quite well in his dealings with the men of Dale.
Wonderful, so glad to see another one of your stories!
The Karenator
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
Daw,
Well, it turns out that I didn't need the sword anyway. When I got up this morning my computer had gone to the Halls of Mandos. I'm using my laptop with a dial up modem. If I can resurrect the darn thing, I'm thinking of naming it Glorfindel. This chapter was quite entertaining. I knew the little yard apes would be swinging through the trees by the light of the moon. And they got caught. Poor Legolas. They really had such a great adventure and then to have to tell Ada. Actually, I was relieved that they didn't shoot the deer. I sort of hated to see him taken and I couldn't figure out how they were going to get it home if they did or how they would explain it. So what's up with the man and him slinking around in the woods at night? Was it Rudd or Cadoc? Or some unknown lurker? Tension builds! (Cue the music.) Looking forward to the next chapter. :>) Karen
Brenda G.
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
Oh, Daw, another great chapter! I wormed and squirmed the entire time the elflings were in the dark, dangerous woods stalking the Prince of the Forest. Who is the Man, and what did he recover in the moonlight? What is he doing running around the Woodland Realm unrestrained (and uninvited, no doubt)? Hmmmm... Mystery looms large here.
Legolas, oh, Legolas! When will you ever learn? How many misadventures must you endure before you at long last discover that while Turgon's suggestions may be heard, they should not be heeded? But your devotion to your erratic friend is just too deep and loyal to keep you from his side as he ventures into "deep waters." Perhaps if you knew now what you will learn later, you would try to curb his recklessness, even if it meant destroying the friendship you find so precious. Great love begets great joy and sorrow. In Turgon, my prince, you will come to know both.
I try, try, try to put myself in Thranduil's stead and simply cannot rise to the occasion. To have that much responsibility, that much wisdom, that much love and fear and the years and experience behind them that relentlessly drive him onward... Whew! I LOVE Thranduil! Shall I dare admit that were I a single elf maiden of sufficient age and maturity, I would do my best to woo the handsome Woodland King to my side of the forest! He is like a fiery, well-bred stallion, restrained for the moment by bridle and rein, crown and throne, but beneath that smoldering surface, trembling for release. Should he ever slip the rein... By the Valar! There I go again--steaming up my computer screen!
Daw, if you story gets any better, it may kill me. Can fans die from too much happiness? Post soon and we'll find out.
Daw rules!
BG
Nilmandra
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
The elflings are wonderfully shown - Turgon and his 'we don't need your ada'; to Annael's giving in - kind of the mellow follower, and Legolas who struggles with right and wrong. He knows what is right - but when he seeks to understand it and cannot, then he lets his own logic prevail. And his motivations are not entirely bad - it is good to want to help Turgon have this experience - he just doesn't understand there are better ways!
I love the end - I love that Legolas seeks Ada for comfort - even if he is perhaps more sorry about being caught and in trouble than he is sorry for what he did :)
Strange Blaze
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
that darn Turgon!!! aah! I was literally sitting here going "Oh no, they're not going to do it...they're not that dumb" but they were. And I'll bet Turgon didn't even get in trouble...I think Thranduil needs to have a talk with his parents! I like that the king was angry but realized that though Legolas was bad he still needed him. I still have a hard time imagining our brave warrior as a weeping child, but I thought that whole scene was quite realistic and well-done. Thranduil is a scary elf, but a loving elf too, and that was captured wonderfully. But who was the Man in the forest? Will we find out? I have to say I'm glad the buck escaped this time, too. Like I said, I'm kind of scared to see the elflings' reaction if they actually DID kill it.
JustMe
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
Ah, they never learn do they? They knew they shouldn't go, they knew they would get in trouble if they got caught, and yet they did it anyway. Now they will have to pay the price. Turgon is a master at convincing others to go along with his crazy schemes. But in spite of that, you just can't dislike him! I think that at some time or another in our lives, we have all know someone like Turgon and have even allowed ourselves to be influenced by him.
The home scenes with Annael's family were really touching. Legolas may be a prince and others may think he has alot of privileges, but ultimately the things he misses most are the simple things that others take for granted. Poor little elfling. He is cordially invited to come sit in my kitchen and eat cookies and milk any time he wants to.
LKK
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
Oh, thank goodness! I was so afraid something terrible would happen to the elflings. (There was no doubt in my mind that they would sneak out at. It seemed inevitable from the moment Turgon suggested it.) I'm glad nothing bad happened. In some ways, Legolas' worst punishment came when he had to tell Ada what he'd done. Apologizing to Anneal's parents won't be easy either. After those two deeds, being grounded will seem almost easy to bear.
I'm also glad that they didn't succeed in hunting the buck. He seems too noble to be brought down. It would almost be a crime.
And about that Man ..... hmm, I'm gonna have to think about him. That's an interesting plot twist. I'm guessing he has something to do with the other plot line, yes??
Once again, a fine job, daw!
LKK
LOTRFaith (won't let me sign in.)
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 5: Young Companions of the Hunt
Awwww! Legolas was very naughty. Tsk. Tsk. Tsk. That's what I call a bad influence. Poor Turgon. He needs a strong hand to hold him down, but I am rather glad he didn't grow up. I would absolutely hate to see him as a adult. Perhaps it is good that he died. Hmm. That's a thought to ponder.
Oh. And if you are wondering if I will post chapter 2 soon on my fic. Well. I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place:-)
But Great chapter!
Namaarie!
LOTRFaith
fadesintothewest
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 4: Companions of the Hunt
Galelas! That is right, no wonder that poor kid was as rotten as he was with a brother like that.
Oh no Turgon is going to get them into trouble. Did Tynd and Riolith say that purposefully in ear shot of the three younger Elves? Will have to wait and see what develops. Ai a friend like Turgon is a parent's worst nightmare!
Fadesintothewest
· 18 September 2003
· Chapter 3: Up and Down the River
I certainly do not think the story is developing slowly. No, the plot thickens, and I have a feeling Legolas and co. are going to get into a heap of trouble with the men and the deer! Thranduil sure knows how to read Legolas :)
Fadesintothewest
· 17 September 2003
· Chapter 2: Hunting
Oh that was a great chapter! The interaction between Legolas and his horse was dead on. It was so easy to imagine the big horse grunting in pleasure as Legolas brushed him.
And our dear Eilian, I love reading about him in the Southern Patrol. But that Tinár, what a bloke! Is that the older brother of Legolas' nemisis in your story where Legols is a novice? Ai, I cannot remember his name.
The hunt goes on! I am afraid Legolas and buds are going to find the large deer and shoot it but b/c of their pint size and strength aren't going to muster the needed fire power to make it a clean death. If this happens it is going to be tragic as the deer will suffer and as they are wood Elves, well, this will be a lesson learned for them.
I must admit I am more squeamish about hunting now as an adult, but as a kid I went out hunting. Only small prey, snakes and rabbits and such. But my father hates what he calls lazy hunters, the ones that use lights, the ones that go hunting in contained paddocks, and that don't eat the meat! There is something sacred in the hunt, and a respectful hunter always tries to make a swift and clean kill. If you shoot a deer in the wrong place say, it might ruin part of the animal that you wanted to consume. So I guess where I am going with this rambling, is that I imagine wood Elves to have a magical communion if you will with the animals that they kill. But I digress and still have more chapters to catch up on!
Brenda G.
· 17 September 2003
· Chapter 4: Companions of the Hunt
Daw, this was a terrific chapter. Eilian has his hands full. It's kind of neat that he is pitted against what might have been (but for Thranduil's stern hand) a mirror image of himself. Delightful fare so far. Keep up the good work. Sorry this is not as in depth as I would like, but I'm doing this on the fly. Just wanted to add my kudos to all others'. You know I have the keenest appreciation and admiration for your work. You're a fav forever of mine.
Post again soon!
The Karenator
· 16 September 2003
· Chapter 4: Companions of the Hunt
Daw,
I do seem to be having trouble with this system. Just as a precaution, would you speak to Ithilden for me? I think I would like one of those nice, new, shiny swords. I may have to slay this beast! Now for the story....Eilian did a fine job of using a bit of reverse psych on good old Tinar. He reminded me a bit of his adar at that point. It seemed to be the kind of method that Thranduil would use to prode someone in the direction he wanted...especially a bull headed son. Gelmir always has such good lines, too. I love how he dryly quotes his mother all the time as though he finds her words as being truthful and amusing. They are always sort of obvious statements. I love that sort of dry humor. His personality is really coming out as you add him more and more to the stories. He is as adorable as all the others. Even Maltanaur got in a jab or two. The weight of shadow, at least, brings out his humorous side at times. "...the little dwarf spawn..." I loved it. I think even Todith was slightly amused as he assigned Eilian the job of rehabilitating Tinar.
It looks as though the Terrible Trio are getting ready for a night hunt. I guess we see where Legolas starts his slipping out at night habit. Turgon always has the best laid plans that seem to be just the wrong thing to do. I suppose it sounded like a good idea at the time. Adar will be vein popping purple!
Again, another a fine chapter. I have grown so fond of your characters I can't imagine that they were not really a part of Legolas's life in Mirkwood. As I have said many times before, I think even Tolkien would have found them endearing, realistic and a good addition. I am constantly amazed and rewarded with pleasure by your skillful crafting of characters and story lines. As always, I'm eager for the next chapter. Now, Professor, don't let this silly real life job of yours interfer with "our" walk through Mirkwood! It's a matter of priorities, ya know! :>) Take care, Karen
naneth
· 15 September 2003
· Chapter 4: Companions of the Hunt
Well, I guess that now we know where Eilian got the wise advise that he gave Legolas in "The Novice" regarding Tinar's younger brother-from his dealings with Tinar! I loved the letter from Legolas and the sense of longing for home that it invoked. This continues to be a wonderful story!
LKK
· 15 September 2003
· Chapter 4: Companions of the Hunt
Eilian is quite the trickster, isn't he? Very clever of him to use reverse psychology to get Tinár to hold his position. Even though I wouldn't want Tinár to be seriously injured (or worse!), I'm kind of sad that Gelmir won't get his sword. I like Gelmir. And why do I think that Turgon is going to talk his friends into hunting at night? Even though they both know it's wrong, forbidden, dangerous, and so on??? ~sigh~ so much for Legolas' increasing maturity. Another great chapter, daw!
bryn
· 15 September 2003
· Chapter 4: Companions of the Hunt
...In which Bryn finally gets off her little duff and leaves a review... ;)
Daw, every time I reach the end of one of your chapters, I cannot help but think, 'There's no more??' They're so captivating and engaging I just want to keep reading. (Pages and pages and pages more!) Maybe I'm greedy, but honestly, is it such a bad thing in this case?
I loved Thranduil's day with Legolas in the woods. The buck scrape, in particular, brought back some fond memories of my own. There's nothing quite like being taught the ways of nature by your father--especially at the age Legolas is. (His father still has Superior Being status.)
*groan* Of COURSE Turgon would suggest they go hunt the buck by themselves. At night. In the Big and Scary Forest That Is Mirkwood. I bet the little scamp's parents are convinced he can do no wrong. Either that, or they've come to the conclusion there is nothing they can do to control him. Maybe they're blind? And deaf? Oh Turgon, we love you all the same. You would think Legolas and Annael would know better by now. Then again, Turgon probably makes a good excuse to go out and do things they know they shouldn't. Annael and Turgon seem to be at opposite ends of the spectrum, with Legolas in the middle. It's a great dynamic you've got going there.
I'm also getting a huge kick out of Eilian's troubles with Tinar. The cocky little monster shot Maltanaur!! How dare he! I'm beginning to develop a soft spot for the old curmudgeon. (Maltanaur, that is. Not Tinar.) *hee hee* Maltanaur: Warrior-Nanny. Oh now that just brings forth some strange images. Tinar does seem to have some issues though. His behavior is eerily similar to that which Legolas encountered in the Elf's younger brother. Perhaps he's so arrogant in order to hide his insecurities? Maybe he's trying to win the respect and admiration of his fellow warriors, when all he really wants is to be acknowledged by his father. I'm reminded of the saying, "We were all traumatized by our parents while growing up."
I think Gelmir should get Tinar's sword, too.
Nilmandra
· 15 September 2003
· Chapter 4: Companions of the Hunt
I just reread this chapter and nearly spewed the diet pepsi AGAIN, even though I knew what was coming.
You write guys entirely too well. Their lack of sympathy for Tinar, once they know he will live, is absolutely hilarious and probably pretty true. It is hard to feel much for someone as obnoxious as he is! And Gelmir! I think I love him, for his sense of humor! Oh my, he is funny!
And I have this visual of Eilan throwing pine cones at Dol Guldur! Weehee! Go Eilian! Hit that Nazgul!
Dot
· 15 September 2003
· Chapter 4: Companions of the Hunt
By themselves?! I'm already cringing at Thranduil's reaction to this latest "idea"....
So, are you basing Tinar on someone you know by any chance - because you write him exceptionally well! My jaw is actually sore from clenching it during his conversation with Eilian. "All my life, I have been plagued by jealous people" *groan*. Eilian has his work cut out there, although he is quite creative - I like the idea of asking Tinar to write a report of the others' strengths and weaknesses! I can't believe Tinar stayed put instead of fleeing. Eejit! Well, at least it's bringing everyone else closer together - every group bonds better when there is one annoying person!:)