Coriel
· 24 November 2003
· Chapter 3: The Second Breakfast of the Elves
Hmm. It seems to me it is high time for Aragorn to wake up and smell the humus. He doesn't seem aware of half of what goes on just under his nose. Of course, that may partly the fault of the Elves for clamming up about it. A shame such a predjudice seems so deeply seated in Gondor. BTW, thanks for the plot bunny; I'll have to treat this theme in passing in my next chapter *when Thranduil himself is confronted with it*.
Author's reply
Oh, beware plot bunnies! Bryn hath cursed me with these and yet I do love Tingalen and her husband. I fear that I am well and truly stuck with them.
Yes, Aragorn needs to step forward soon. There is trouble in Gondor and he is the king.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Chigger
· 24 November 2003
· Chapter 4: The Lion of Lórien
Look out, Sam! I hope Haldir won't mind your listening in. Remember how Gandalf felt the last time you eavesdropped? Sam, Sam, will you never learn?
Another great chapter. Don't stop now, though. Keep going. :)
Author's reply
Sam is the rock of gentle strength for Legolas. He will also be the only refuge of his daughter if Legolas does not heal. How would you tell a hobbit lass that the elf who spun stories for her is suffering or has died? I absolutely love Sam and always will. I fear for Elanor and Orophin.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Tinnuial
· 23 November 2003
· Chapter 4: The Lion of Lórien
This is shaping up to be a marvellous story...but it does hurt so to think that the people of Gondor could see the elves as anything but the kind, gentle creatures that they are.
I love how you write, and I adore the characters you've written...looking forward to more updates soon....
Thank you!
Author's reply
Prejudice and ignorance occur in all societies. Even the elves hated the dwarves. It took Legolas and Gimli to know each other as individuals to overcome that.
New chapter in this cycle is just posted at "Jewels of his Existence". Alas, poor Elessar! Poor Arwen! (Well, don't look at me. I am firmly in the elven camp.)
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Chigger
· 23 November 2003
· Chapter 3: The Second Breakfast of the Elves
Rumors can be ugly, no doubt about it. I love the bonding between the hobbit lass and the Elf! It's so sweet and uncorny! Rose, don't worry about your new friend, he can take care of himself, I'm sure.
Author's reply
The idea that the feared group will harm and even eat the children of those who fear them is classic. I suspect it speaks to the primal instinct of any group to protect its own children.
Orophin is one of my favorite elves (HOW could anyone guess that about me! Orophins Dottir. A moment of madness but it fits. BTW, "dottir" is the Icelandic word for "daughter". Now you know more than you ever wanted to know!) I really want Orophin's relationship to Elanor to be real. It is going to last until her death or his. The War has taken much from Orophin. It has given him Elanor.
There is a new chapter up at "Jewels of his Existence" that I rather like. Orophin's big brother is confronting Aragorn. He's braver than I am! See what you think.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Chigger
· 23 November 2003
· Chapter 2: The Midnight Watches
"He had met the elves." How much you have said in so short a sentence! So much must change once the simple folk meet those wonderful people. I had never really thought of that before, but I suppose it's true. I mean, how would it feel to suddenly run into one today? Pretty weird. And I'm sure they would be thinking the same thing. :)
Author's reply
I would love to meet Tolkien's elves. They hearken back to the original concepts of the Norse legends, and the Tuatha Dé Danaan (People of the Goddess Danu) and their descendents, the Sidhe, of Ireland. If you don't know them, meet them and be amazed. It was a sad day when the elves became Keebler cookie endors and appalling statues in tasteless gardens. *sighs and gets off her soap box*
Thank you for recognizing what I intended in that one little sentence. Very perceptive. I had originally written several paragraphs and then decided it was too much. Sam meeting the elves and Legolas letting him touch his hair were enough.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Nilmandra
· 23 November 2003
· Chapter 4: The Lion of Lórien
Part of me is so torn between understanding that this kind of ignorance and hatred could exist in a land that has spent so much time fighing evil - they know what it is, they know their enemy. I can understand how the Lady of the Wood they might fear......but to think these elves eat children?
And the next part of me says send for Thranduil and somehow get Legolas out of there! Sedate him lightly and carry him in their arms!
Author's reply
You think you are conflicted? Check out Arwen in the new chapter.
I stand firmly by Haldir and say let them prove their worth to our fair prince.
I think I am probably a sick puppy. As Rumil, I would probably "laugh at my own death in battle". Go, Rumil!
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
The Karenator
· 23 November 2003
· Chapter 4: The Lion of Lórien
Maybe it's my frame of mind, but that was a bit of a chilling chapter. The brothers Galadhrim see now the danger of the people of Gondor who view the elves as evil. Kinda makes you want to ask for a definition of evil, doesn't it? I could just feel their shock and their feelings of urgency to see Legolas and themselves protected. I see that they will leave telling Thranduil of what's happeing to Celeborn. Wise move, I'd say. And Tingalen is expecting a wee one. So, we know that somewhere after The Revenge has been taken, that these two live happily ever after. Good chapter,my lady. I look forward to seeing what happens. :>) Karen
Author's reply
Chilling? Brace yourself for a bumpy ride, dearest lady! Legolas is bleeding, Arwen is conflicted, Aragorn is still oblivious and Haldir is magnificent. How is Haldir doing with the fried turkey project? *smacks head in apology* Rumil says that it should be noted that he is riding post haste to Ithilien with his wicked crooked grin upon his face. Rumil's contract is apparently up for renewal.
Yes, Tingalen is with child. If you knit as badly as I do, you better get in gear. We only have a few months. Not sure of due date yet as it is still is up in the air as to whether child will be mortal or elven. Legolas thinks elven. Good genes, he opines.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
daw the minstrel
· 23 November 2003
· Chapter 3: The Second Breakfast of the Elves
Well, that's sobering. I guess prejudice must be present everywhere. Orophin is very sweet in his dealings with Elanor.
Author's reply
I have always been intrigued by the effects of prejudice and ignorance. Like pebbles dropped into water, they travel too far in their journeys in our lives. They are evil themselves, and they let greater evil enter.
Elanor has a part to play in this battle. As long as he lives, Orophin will guard her whatever happens.
The Karenator
· 22 November 2003
· Chapter 3: The Second Breakfast of the Elves
Ai Elbereth! Alas! I shall start taking names if this does not cease immediately. Elves are evil! What foolish is this, my lady? This poor innocent child, a blood sworn friend and princess of one of the Galadhrim, has been given false testimony! And your poor Orophin. How his heart is pained by such words from one he holds so dear. I will not stand for this. Call the guard! Send messengers for the king! For this vile rumor must be laid to rest. There is comfort in knowing that the Lord Legolas doth bring kindness in his stories, even if they do also bring tears. The young one will know this foul idle talk is false and she may yet bring enlightenment to the poor children of men who hath been lead astray by superstition and ignorance. Yea, I believe this to be the cause. The young Elanor will set straight these misguided children of men. My heart is refreshed at such thought. All will be well. Now I may take rest without fear. Good eve, my lady. I shall return to give praise to the young and brave Elanor....:>) The Karenator
Author's reply
My degree is in German language and literature and this quote from the incredible German poet Heinrich Heine has ever been a touchstone of my life:
"Dort, wo man Bücher verbrennt, verbrennt man am Ende auch Menschen."
—Heinrich Heine, from his play Almansor (1821)
Translation: Where first they burn books, then they will burn people.
Ignorance and fear may be what kills us all in the end.
That is influencing this story.
Chigger
· 22 November 2003
· Chapter 1: The Garden of the Queen
Too cute! Little hobbit kids must be so sweet! Especially the little girls!:) It would seem to me that someone (not to name names, but, oh, SAM) has been spoiling the little lass. ;)
Author's reply
Ah, yes! Elanor has been well-loved. (Spoiled is such a harsh term to apply to our dear Sam!) Despite her youth, she has an important role in these two stories.
Thanks for the review and hope you will stick with us for the whole journey.
Coriel
· 22 November 2003
· Chapter 2: The Midnight Watches
How sweet is that! ^_^ But it sounds like Legolas needs his protein. I remember Thranduil at least was not averse to roast meat. The Elves in Gondor ought to get together and make some their way if they don't like what's available. Trust me; it will do him good!
If he gets any worse, I would not be surprised if Thranduil came down himself to force-feed him. Send him all my best get-well wishes!
Author's reply
Ah, but Thranny never had Beef a la Gondor! Never fear, Rosie is now on the case, and I have the feeling that one of the older brethern Galadhrim is about to blow a cork over the food situation and general unpleasantness towards the elves. Perhaps Rumil. I haven't given him much to do of late. But then, Haldir in a snit is really quite impressive. It happens so rarely. Decisions, decisions.
We will add your wishes of returned health to the growing stack by Legolas' bedside. Poor Elf Boy! How we all do torment him.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Nilmandra
· 21 November 2003
· Chapter 2: The Midnight Watches
I love that Arwen has brought a touch of elfdom to Gondor - how lovely to have the benches and open windows. I am not an elf, and they would be my choice to sit too.
Now, my poor Legolas is still ailing and I do not know why? When shall we learn of what malady has struck our dear princeling? He is thin and not hungry, and I am glad Rosie's bread aids him, but it sounds like our ailing prince should be sleeping beneath beech and willow, and eating the finest fruits and lembas the elves can provide. Dow his father the King know of this?
PS Still pondering which Valar....:D
Author's reply
Thranduil is resting, thank you, and Humble Scribe hopes to keep it that way! I do not like to think what he might do to Gondor if he finds out what happened to Legolas there. However, Rosie is on the case, and she's a better cook. Galadriel is sending lembas I would assume.
To know what befell Legolas, see the new chapter 2 of "Jewels of his Existence". Depending on the insanity level of Real Life here, it may get into this story this weekend.
Ponder away, revered Web Elf!
daw the minstrel
· 21 November 2003
· Chapter 2: The Midnight Watches
This story is as well done and I expected it to be. The hobbits are vividly presented. Elanor is mischievous but loving. And I am touched by the picture of the ill Legolas.
Author's reply
Thanks as always! I've slightly revised the chapter since you read it, but it's essentially the same. Primarily, I took out the bit about Haldir and Namo. I saw that as starting to get too complicated if I were juggling two stories as one here and the Wood-Elf insanity as well. Plus, the evil forces of the Stories of Arda list issued a new holiday challenge, and a vision of Galadriel and Christmas did spring full blown into my head. I'm glad I'm not the designated turkey cooker this holiday!
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
The Karenator
· 20 November 2003
· Chapter 2: The Midnight Watches
So, my lady, have we, (meaning you), found out, yet, what afflicts our dear Greenleaf? He's just not himself. Whatever's happened, he's slow to recover.
Sam is such a sweet fellow. He's as steady and solid as the earth. How can anyone not love someone who is so guileless and true to his own heart? What a nice scene with Sam giving his bread to Legolas. I just knew Rosie could beat Martha all to pieces with her cooking!
You have done a great job of giving distinct personalities to each character and showing the cultural and ethnic differences of Elves and Hobbits....but in a very non-threatening way. Your characters seemed to embrace those differences rather than finding others 'wrong' for not being like them. I suppose the modern world could take a lesson or two.....
Very nicely done.....now, when are we going to get the whole story?....inquiring minds want to know? :>) Karen
Author's reply
Lo, my lady, a serious reply! Note down this date!
Legolas and Sam have survived a very long journey that took them into an unbearable darkness. Yet, each in his own way found a way to bear the burden of that darkness. Along the path, Legolas abandoned his certainties about dwarves and their vast differences from his own folk and became one half of what I consider one of the most emblematic friendships in all literature.
And, Sam? Sam overcame the overwhelming ordinariness of his existence. The gardener, who eavesdropped on wizards and never dreamed of leaving the Shire although curious about the elves, grew to be honored even by the Valar. He put one ordinary hobbit foot in front of another and, in the end, Sauron himself could not defeat him. I do so love Sam.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
shirebound
· 20 November 2003
· Chapter 2: The Midnight Watches
You have a wonderful way with showing the differences between hobbit and Elf, and particularly the ways in which each complements the other.
This is very interesting:
"The elf took it politely and wondered how he would eat it, for he did not wish to hurt Sam, but he was wary of all food made by mortals."
What a gentle, soothing chapter!
Author's reply
Thank you, dear Hobbit Mentor! Your words are high praise. I have decided to turn this into a writing challenge for myself. With "The Jewels of his Existence", I am going to treat the same time period of interaction with the elves from two entirely different viewpoints, those of Rosie and Sam (and perhaps other hobbits), and that of Gimli, the dwarf. Let's see what happens.
I hope each story will stand independently, but they will be interwined. I may be able to post Chapter 2 of "Jewels" tonight but am not quite sure the eyeballs will stay open long enough!
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
shirebound
· 14 November 2003
· Chapter 1: The Garden of the Queen
This is wonderful! Rose's easy, informal speech is such a contrast to the Elves' slower, more formal and mannered way. (I wasn't sure why you wrote of Frodo being present when Orophin spoke with Elanor, but I'm not familiar with 'your' Universe of post-quest Middle-earth.)
What a perfect judgment Legolas meted out to little Elanor, and what a true princess she is. Rosie is seeing the best of Elfdom, and no mistake.
Very, very nice! My goodness, a hobbit child must seem incredibly tiny to Elves, especially Elves who haven't seen Elvish children for a long time.
Author's reply
Humble Scribe apologizes for delay in replying. She has been doing battle with evil as ever.
Elanor's role is going to be important in these two tales. I hope you will visit the new chapters of both as they arise, esteemed Hobbit Maven. *bows low to her mentor in all things hobbity*
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Tinnuial
· 1 November 2003
· Chapter 1: The Garden of the Queen
Another marvellous story!! The poor, poor roses....and the heartbroken elves! The interaction between Orophin and Elanor is simply adorable...
Why is Legolas in bed? Is he ill for some reason? Or is this something to do with the sea-longing? Poor fellow...
Thanks for posting...
:)
Tinnuial
Author's reply
Thank you again. The Karenator (May she be blessed forever as my sounding board! Read her stories, do!) and I have touched upon this in our correspondence with each other. These vignettes are rather on the back burner at the moment as the "Revenge of the Wood-Elf" is rather consuming; however, I begin to think that Legolas, who as an elf cannot suffer illness, has been injured in saving a child. This is not yet cast in stone, but I have a fascination, as you may be able to detect in this story, with the relationship of elves with the innocents of mortal life such as children. Orophin is in truth my darling as are his noble brethern, Rúmil and Haldir, and Lord Celeborn. Ai, Celeborn! Marnie and I see that you are far beyond just being "Mr. Galadriel"!
Nilmandra
· 1 November 2003
· Chapter 1: The Garden of the Queen
I can't believe you have me crying over roses! Or perhaps it is not the roses I am crying over (although I will admit to having a yard full of them) but the love of a dwarf and an elf. One of the themes of Tolkien I love is the depth of love and friendship he allowed his characters, perhaps so like to what he had in the trenches of war. Bonds of friendship formed in hard times, when friends depended on each other for so much, can be as deep as any lovers and yet not erotic.
I love how well you have captured Rosie's voice - she is wonderful - and your elves are elfy. We see their grace and dignity and courteousness and general respect for all living things.
Why our poor prince must lie upon a couch is another matter though, and I am grieved that he lies thus - for surely only a severe injury could cause such a thing.
Author's reply
Ai, my courtesy has failed entirely! I am woefully late in this reply. I beg you not to tell my liege, for he is a firm believer that reviewers are to be thanked for their welcome efforts.
These stories are giving me an opportunity to think about fear and prejudice and the evils that they bring about in this world. They are evil in and of themselves, and they allow greater evils an entry.
The core impulse for these stories is a remark made by Haldir: "in nothing is the Power of the Dark Lord more clearly shown than in the enstrangement that divides all those who still oppose him". I think I shall add that quote to the synopses.
Humble Scribe to his Majesty Thranduil
Coriel
· 1 November 2003
· Chapter 1: The Garden of the Queen
An endearing glimpse of Rosie with the Elves! She does seem a bit out of her element, though she should catch on soon. Dang, I need Legolas here to teach my baby brother a thing or two!
Author's reply
Apologies for this late reply! The ever present battle against evil has kept the Humble Scribe too long from her duty to courtesy.
Rosie is well on the way to full understanding. She and her little daughter will be greatly needed in these two intertwined tales of Gondor. I hope that you will cast your eye upon the new chapters as they arise.
Thanks for the review!
The Karenator
· 1 November 2003
· Chapter 1: The Garden of the Queen
Okay..Legolas is still recovering. From what, my fair and scribbling, I mean scribing, lady? I loved the sweet little Elanor. She was just being a child, but as all children need, she was given direction. And what wonderful direction it was. If all people of authority were so wise! I'm a good friend of Orophin and Rumil and Haldir and I was glad to see them make an appearance. A good story about respect for all living things, the people who place trust in you and bouncy little girls. Loved it. :>) Karen
Author's reply
Hooray, you're back! Don't quite know yet what terrible angst I will have to inflict on Legolas. Poor Elf Boy! People are always hurting him. *sniffs sadly* This just popped into my head right after slaughtering all those poachers. I think my mind needed a rest!