Chapter 8- Bye-bye, Bastryn!
"SPIDER! SPIDER!"
Prince Aralith, second son of King Thranduil Oropherion, leapt onto his chair, his eyes wide with terror as he held his long pale green robes up about his trembling knees.
Thranduil groaned, but managed to not grab his golden locks in frustration. He ground his teeth together and glanced at Tanglinna who had a smirk on his face. The Master Archer turned to look at his king.
"Isn't that Niben Morny's leash?" he asked above the murmur of startled and frightened voices, his grey eyes filled with delight.
Thranduil stared at the golden leash attached to the gem-encrusted collar, which flashed rather pleasantly against Bastryn's dark fur. He had not thought of "Little Blacky" in many years, not until Bastryn had showed up in the garden that morning. He had never told his children about his spider, as he felt it would negate the "No Pet Spider" rule. Oropher had not been pleased with his son's leggy pet any more than Thranduil had been pleased with Legolas' newest acquisition. At least Little Blacky had never interrupted dinner! His eyes narrowed as he watched Brethil yanking on his braid and looking rather confused as to what he should be doing. Tavor had moved to stand behind Nodfang who was gaping at the spider with incredulity. Thranduil sighed, willing a measure of patience to temper his voice.
"Little Greenleaf," he began as Bastryn stared up at them, hissing in surprise at such a large gathering.
"Li'l Greenleaf, you are in so much trouble," Laerlend declared from where she stood atop her chair, arms folded over her chest, her miniature version of the wigglies in full force. Sellond scooped her up from the chair and eased backward toward the wall, the nurse's eyes wide. "Why are you scared of a silly spider?" Laerlend asked, mild disgust on her face. She had always thought Sellond a rather brave nurse until now. "You are as bad as Aralith."
Little Greenleaf swallowed, and turned to meet his father's eyes.
"Please take your spider out of the room. . . after you apologize for this. . .this. . .this. . . this."
"We. . .we will catch him, Adar," the youngling stammered, his cheeks flaring a bright crimson. He recalled only too well how hard it was to "catch him."
"*I* am not catching him!" Tavor protested vehemently, surprising Nodfang who turned to look at the young Elf cowering behind his stout body. The youngling quirked a small smile at the bushy, black-haired Dwarf, and shrugged apologetically.
"Surely there is nothing to fear from that little spider," Nodfang said with an encouraging nod. "A brave young warrior of Mirkwood like yourself surely can overcome such a small. . .bug."
"Yes, Tavor," Laerlend chirped. "It should be easy for a 'brave young warrior' like you."
"Quiet, young one," Sellond scolded.
Laerlend turned to her, eyebrows shooting upward. She hmphed and tossed her golden head, arms folded about her chest.
Tavor swallowed as King Thranduil's eyes slid to him. The Elfling felt that his behavior would reflect on the entire community of Elven Warriors. This was Not Good. He straightened, his face pale.
"Well, I . . . I . . ." he glanced toward Legolas for help, but the young prince was edging around the table, slowly advancing on Bastryn. "I am not a Warrior yet," he continued haughtily. "I haven't the braids, you see." Then his eyes rested on Prince Aralith who had so recently gained his braids. "At least I am not standing on my chair."
Tanglinna snorted.
"No, you are hiding behind a Dwarf, youngling," he said with a chuckle.
Thranduil felt that he could throttle them all, as he turned to glare at his middle son.
"Aralith! Get down this moment!" he barked sharply. Couldn't anyone in his family act in a dignified manner? At least Celebross looked perfectly collected. Or did he? Thranduil noted the dreamy smile on his son's lips as he stared at the doorway, seemingly unaware of the chaos that was erupting in this room. The King frowned as he noted the tall Sylvan Elf maiden that stood in the doorway, her long rich brown tresses spilling over her bared shoulders as she smiled back at his son and heir.
~He has to flirt NOW?!~ Thranduil thought with amazement.
Randor watched with anticipation as Prince Legolas moved cautiously to stand several feet behind the cat-sized Mirkwood spider while the third young Elf knelt down in front of it, crooning softly.
The spider was staring at the Elf, an odd, gentle look on its face. It quivered slightly, confused by all the people.
"Wicked Elves," it hissed, crimson eyes flaring. "No more sleeping."
"Sleeping?" Menardil said with a questioning glance at Thranduil. "I understood that you shot them, Your Majesty. Or do you perhaps sing lullabies to them instead?"
Nodfang guffawed and banged Tavor on the back as Thranduil drew a deep breath, muttering to himself that he would not lose his temper. No, he would not!
"You Elves certainly are a perplexing and merry lot," Nodfang said as Tavor staggered forward slightly. "Pet spiders! Who would have thought it?"
"Who indeed!" Tanglinna agreed with an amused expression on his lean face as he watched Thranduil wrestle with the temptation to yell at someone. "It seems to be a family trait."
Thranduil shot a glare in his direction, but then had to repress an amused smile. After all, one either saw the amusement in this or one lost one's temper entirely, which made one look silly.
Legolas was gesturing at Brethil, who looked up and blinked.
"What Legolas?" the younger Elf said. "I didn't understand you."
Legolas let out an exasperated sigh and motioned at Bastryn, then pretended to grab the spider. Then he pointed at Brethil and made the same motion once more. Brethil frowned and blinked again.
Laerlend sighed.
"He wants you to grab the spider from that side, Brethil," she told him with as much patience as she could muster.
Brethil's face brightened. He smiled and nodded.
"Thank you, Laerlend! I am so sorry, Bastryn," he said with a slight sigh as his gaze slid to the spider once more, "it really is for your own good." Then he nodded at Legolas once more, and stood.
Suddenly the two Elves lunged at the little spider, but the little spider had been expecting some sort of attack, as it had happened so often before with these two. Bastryn leapt into the air, causing Legolas and Brethil to collide with one another and land on the floor in a tangle of adolescent limbs. Bastryn bounced off them and catapulted to the table.
The guests moved hastily away, making noises of fear and surprise at the unexpected action of the arachnid that landed in the table's center, perching atop a floral creation hissing and creaking at them. Aralith had leapt from his chair, and bolting across the room and out the door. Laerlend shook her head.
"They are so silly," she muttered, her arms still folded over her chest and surveying them all with mild disapproval.
"Wicked Elves," the spider hissed, "making Bastryn sleep all the time!"
"He knows his name!" Brethil exclaimed excitedly, climbing to his feet with some difficulty as he had become entangled in Legolas' robe. "He knows his name! How wonderful! You are so smart, Bastryn! You're such a smart little spider. Such a little sweetheart! Yes, you are!"
Randor nearly choked at the ridiculousness of the situation. He knew King Thranduil must have been nearly dying as his face contorted in his attempt to restrain himself before his guests, but for some reason it looked as though he were choking back laughter. He watched as Prince Legolas rose, yanking at his troublesome green robe and growling beneath his breath.
Legolas shot a look at the young Elf named Brethil, blue eyes flashing, but then he looked to his father and gulped. How could things have gotten out of hand so quickly? He noted a server nearby, still holding a tray bearing the decanters of wine. Legolas swallowed, knowing that what he was about to do was not "A Good Thing", or even "A Wise Thing", but it was all he could think of. He took a couple of shaky breaths then turned grabbing the decanter from the tray and yanking out the stopper. He splashed the wine on Bastryn who spluttered at him, waving his long legs in the air.
"Little Greenleaf! What are you doing?!"
"It will make him go to sleep," Legolas explained, his eyes never wavering from the spider, who was now thoroughly enraged and growling low in its throat.
"What are you talking about, Little Greenleaf?" the king asked, feeling his temper fray once more as his fingers knotted on the long sleeves of his flowing robes. Splashing wine about was not going to help things at all.
"Well," Legolas grimaced. "You see. . . that is. . . well . . ."
Brethil stood, rubbing his head where it had connected with Legolas rather bony knee, and blinked several times.
"It is all my fault, Your Majesty," he said, brushing his hair from his eyes, which were filled with woe. "It is not Little Green-er-Legolas' fault. I was the one who hid the Morn Nen water, not Legolas. . . or Tavor for that matter. Why are you standing behind that Dwarf, Tavor? I thought I had found a good hiding place, but I guess it wasn't good enough. I am certain that they put it in the wine accidentally. I hope it was just an accident. That would be rude otherwise. Um, Legolas. . .it doesn't seem to be working," he pointed at Bastryn who had risen to his full height. "My he has grown, hasn't he! Such a big boy! What a big spider you are, Bastryn."
Nodfang turned to gaze at Menardil who stood nearby.
"I thought these Wood Elves were supposed to be quiet creatures," the Dwarf said with a laugh.
Menardil smiled and shrugged, knowing quite well that any comment on that subject at this moment would not be wise.
Legolas had realized that the wine did not seem to be working. Perhaps the vintage had somehow negated the effects of the water, or just slowed it. He looked at his father, who was not wearing his "Happy Monarch" face.
~I am already in trouble, so it really doesn't matter if I do it again. Does it? ~
A small groan escaped his lips as he moved slowly toward another server and grabbed up another decanter.
"Little Greenleaf! If you think that -!"
The watered wine flew toward Bastryn, but Tanglinna had moved to intercept his prince and it splashed down the Master Archer's beautiful dark grey robes. Legolas' mouth opened and his eyes widened. Tavor gasped in shock, and moved to stand completely behind Nodfang. Brethil blinked and shook his head.
"Oh, Legolas. You were supposed to throw it on Bastryn, not on Master Tanglinna. Though I must say that the red color of the wine looks nice with your robes, Master Tanglinna. It just matches your shoes, too. Oh. . . they were grey too, weren't they? Well, they are red now, but they do look nice. In fact -"
"Shut up, Brethil," Tanglinna breathed quietly as he stared down at his sodden shoes. He frowned and shook his head. He really despised these dinners. He grimaced, and was about to look to Thranduil to ask his leave to go and change when he heard a snort of laughter. The Master Archer recognized it well enough and looked up.
Thranduil was staring at him with a look of sheer delight on his face, the blue eyes lit with mirth. Tanglinna drew in a deep breath and straightened to his full height, trying to exude as much dignity as he could, considering that his shoes squished and he would leave a wine trail behind him when he moved.
"If you will excuse me, Your Majesty, I will go and change." He bowed his head, then turned gracefully, and headed toward the door, ignoring the wet squelching sounds that came from below him. Thranduil had other ideas though.
"Take the spider with you, Tanglinna." One eyebrow rose in challenge, and Tanglinna narrowed his eyes.
Brethil gasped as the Master Archer advanced toward the table, a fierce scowl on his face. The noise his shoes were making sounded very like the sound Mesgwauruan made. Bastryn puffed up and hissed fiercely.
"Don't even think about it," the silver haired Elf growled at the small Mirkwood arachnid, his eyes narrowed.
The spider gulped slightly, and shrank back. The look on the old Elf's face was one he had never seen before, and fear coursed through the furry body.
"Don't let it hurt me, Naneth Lhing," he moaned at Brethil, using the words he had heard the other two Elves call this one. "Please! Bastryn will be good. I promise! Keep that wicked, bad, old Elf away from me!"
"Oh, don't hurt him, please! He is really a nice spider! He truly is! He doesn't mean to cause trouble or bite anyone. Well, perhaps he does mean to bite people, but I suppose that is because he is a spider. You really mustn't blame him. He can't help that he was born a spider! Don't hurt him, Master Tanglinna! Please! Oh! Oh! He called me Naneth Lhing! Did you hear that, Legolas? Tavor? He called me Naneth Lhing!"
Tanglinna, who had no intention of hurting the spider, turned to look at the youngling. He saw the wide grey eyes filled with elation at being called a Mother Spider, the long slender fingers clamped about the braid, which hung to the child's slim waist. It was good to see that the child was more himself once again. He sighed and shook his head. Why was this silly one always affecting him this way? Hmph. He knew why. He smiled kindly at the child of his dead friend, reaching out to stroke the slightly tousled blonde locks, and trying not to remember the look of shock and overwhelming sorrow that had marred this sweet face not long before, and causing the tripping tongue to fall into silence.
"I am not going to hurt him, Brethil Bronaduion. Why don't you accompany me, and tell me where he resides . . . for now," he added with a look at Legolas. Then he walked to the table and scooped up the surprised arachnid, and deftly tucked him under one arm, and bowed to the King, managing to keep his eyes quite bland and devoid of any thoughts of revenge on Thranduil for this ignominy.
Brethil trotted to his side, amazed that Bastryn was behaving. He dared to reach out and pet the black head.
"What a good boy you are, Lend Laes Bastryn," he said with a smile as he hurried to keep up with Tanglinna's longer strides, reaching out on hand to grasp one of Tanglinna's. "Maybe the Morn Nen water is working after all," he commented as he passed Legolas, "though I think he should be asleep if it was. It must be because he loves his Naneth. Sweet baby Bastryn."
The spider wanted to do nothing more than bite the two Elves, but he knew that it was not in his best interest at present. He could wait. He could wait until the silver haired one wasn't there any more. Then he would bite something. Or someone.
Thranduil waited until the unlikely pair had exited the room before motioning to Galion, who had entered in time to see Tanglinna get splashed with the wine.
"I think that perhaps we will use the smaller dining room this night, Galion. Please have it prepared for my guests and me. Bring some of the Dorwinion wine to the Hall where we will be waiting."
Galion blinked several times and then bowed and hastened away, shooing the servers ahead of him. The King *had* said Dorwinion, hadn't he? Was that possible?
"Oh, Galion? No water this time."
Galion gazed at his king, and then bowed. He would have to speak to Taltalad about where he had gotten the water. He thought he had heard young Brethil say something about Morn Nen. That of course was impossible. . . wasn't it?
"As you wish, your majesty," he said, then hastily exited, wondering what was going on with the watered wine. Then he reentered the room. "You did say the Dorwinion, didn't you?" he asked, trying to look as if he knew exactly what was going on.
Thranduil nodded. He deserved Dorwinion. . . they all did after this.
"That is what I said, Galion. The Dorwinion."
The guests murmured appreciatively, trying to keep the shock from their faces as they felt it would be impolite. Randor blinked several times, and pinched himself. Surely he was dreaming!
Menardil turned and moved to the one server that was sopping up the mess on the tablecloth, having set aside his tray with the decanter, and poured himself a glass of the wine. Why had they put water in it? That was highly unusual. He took a sip from the glass, rolling it around on his tongue. He grimaced slightly at the taste.
"King Thranduil, I am sorry that I sent you this inferior stuff. I will have another case sent immediately to replace it." He took another sip, then set the glass down. The Dorwinion was a *much* better choice.
"No!" Legolas and Thranduil yelled at the same time.
Menardil frowned and looked at them.
"What is the matter? I apologize once again that the wine was so bad. Though I admit I wish I had sent it to you sooner if it meant we would get to sample the Dorwinion," he grinned.
Thranduil glanced down at Legolas, who shut his eyes and yanked on his collar, and then they both stood silently to see when the vintner would fall asleep. He merely stared at them in confusion.
"How. . . how do you feel?" Thranduil asked after a moment. "Do you feel sleepy at all?"
"Sleepy?" Menardil asked. "No. I have not had that much wine, Your Majesty," he grinned. "Why do you ask? I must admit that tonight has been highly entertaining. I assure you that I am quite awake. I am wondering what might happen next." He chuckled and the others joined him.
"As am I," Nodfang laughed.
Laerlend squirmed in Sellond's arms until she was set on the floor. She walked over to the Dwarf, and looked up into his face. She peered around his bulk to look at Tavor, and shook her head in disbelief at the fearful "I am not a Warrior yet." He smiled weakly, and shrugged.
"You make nice jewelry, don't you?" she chirped, turning all her flirtatious attention on the black bearded Dwarf. She had been quite jealous of the sparkling collar around the spider's throat, and wanted something equally pretty and bright for herself. She knew very well that Dwarves and pretty jewels went together.
"Yes, we Dwarves are quite famous for our jewelry," Nodfang said seriously, as he looked into the child's hazel eyes. "I believe we have made some that are in your father's collection." He gazed up at the Wood Elf King and winked. Thranduil raised one brow, but said nothing.
"Would you make something for me? A necklace of golden flowers, like the one that Glorfindel has," Laerlend stated boldly. "He killed a Balrog once, you know."
Nodfang managed not to laugh out loud in delight. He looked up to see King Thranduil rolling his eyes skyward.
"You are a bold one, little Elfling princess. Just for that, I will craft you a necklace of golden flowers just like Glorfindel has. You may consider it a present for your bold beauty, and for your fair singing voice."
Laerlend smiled prettily and then threw her arms about him as well as she could manage. She threw a look of triumph at her Ada whom she knew would have refused that request, and took the Dwarf's hand in her own, having decided that he would be her partner for the evening.
"You are such a sweet thing," she said, stroking his soft beard with one small hand.
Thranduil pursed his lips in frustration. First a song about a Noldor Elf, then a necklace to honor that Noldor Elf, and *now* she was flirting with a Dwarf who looked entirely too pleased with the situation. He shook his head. What was he going to do with her?
Thranduil turned to look at Legolas once more. The child's blue eyes were filled with confusion as he pondered why Bastryn hadn't fallen asleep like he was supposed to. This at least was something that Thranduil could handle.
"I thought Brethil said," Mirkwood's King began in a low voice, "that Morn Nen water had been accidentally put into the wine."
Legolas bit his lower lip.
"Yes, that is what he said, Adar."
"Why did he say that? It is obviously not true."
Tavor squeaked slightly, and moved from behind Nodfang. He had been hoping to slip out unnoticed to get the telltale bottle of Morn Nen water as well as the wine they had chosen for Elrond from the hallway where he and Brethil had left them, but knew that was impossible now. He drew himself up proudly, calling on his grandmother's Noldor blood for courage and pride. If Laerlend could defy the king so ably, he could at least appear.well, not terrified.
"There has obviously been a mistake, Your Majesty," he said, looking squarely into the King's blue eyes, which took every ounce of determination and poise that he possessed. He tried to keep his grandmother's rather stern visage in his mind's eye, but she terrified him as well. "I apologize for any, er, disruption that Brethil and I may have caused. I do not know why we thought that the. . . the, er, wine had been, well, er, tainted with Morn Nen water. I apologize again." He bowed low, feeling his face flame. So much for Noldoran blood.
Thranduil sighed and waved his hand in dismissal. He felt to weary too deal with any more of Legolas' friends at present.
"You may go, Tavor. Please find Prince Aralith for me, and tell him to come back to dinner. I do not know how this happened either." ~ I do not *wish* to know. ~ "Where is Celebross?" he asked, realizing that his eldest was nowhere in sight either.
Menardil smiled, and winked at Randor.
"I seem to remember him saying something about saving Mirithil from the spider. Could that possibly have been that enchanting creature standing in the doorway earlier?"
Thranduil groaned quietly.
"Go and find them both, Tavor. Now."
Tavor breathed a sigh of relief and straightened. He grinned at Legolas before turning and practically sprinting from the room.
"Morn Nen water?" Nodfang said. "What is that, if I may be so bold as to ask, Your Majesty?"
Thranduil sighed. He did not wish to answer, but he felt that perhaps if told in the right way it might make a good story. He smiled at his guests saying that he would enlighten them over the Dorwinion, ~Did I really say to serve the Dorwinion? ~ and gestured for them to follow him to the "small dining room." Just then Galion came in dragging the young apprentice server.
"Your Majesty, this is Taltalad, the boy sent for the water. Tell him where you got it, Taltalad." He would not have it said that he had allowed anything so irresponsible to happen at a King's dinner.
Taltalad gasped as he stood before the King. He felt certain that he would faint if those blue eyes rested on him, so he bowed his head and stared at the floor. He didn't know what was going on this night, but he fervently hoped that it had not been his fault.
"I got it from the rain barrel outside, Your Majesty," he stammered, bowing his entire body lower.
"Rain barrel?" a small voice piped from the hall. "Rain barrel? Oh! Well, then I guess there was nothing to worry about."
Everyone turned to see Brethil standing in the hall, a bottle of wine in one hand and a bottle of water in the other. He grinned happily at them.
"I didn't hide it in the rain barrel. So you see, everything is fine. I would love to stay and chat, but Master Tanglinna needs me." He bobbed a bow to them, and then turned to skip happily down the hallway.
Thranduil shook his head. Younglings. He sighed, and cleared his throat.
~No. I will not think of this at all. ~
"You may go, Taltalad. You have done nothing wrong."
Taltalad nearly groaned with relief, and turned fleeing.
Galion started to call out to him, to tell him to walk slowly and to ask why hadn't he bowed before leaving, when Thranduil shook his head.
"Nay, Galion. Let him go. Is everything prepared in the small dining room? I believe we are all hungry." ~ The sooner we start the sooner they will all leave! That way I will have plenty of time to *not* think about this. ~
"Yes, Your Majesty. All is ready. Please follow me."
As the guests fell into line behind Thranduil, Legolas moved to walk beside his father.
"Ada?" he whispered, his hand knotted on the silky fabric of his father's robe.
"Yes, Little Greenleaf?"
"I am sorry that this happened. I really am."
Thranduil smiled down at him.
"Do not worry over it, nin ion. It has been rather. . .interesting."
Legolas gazed up at him, surprised to see the smile that played over his father's lips.
"Really?"
"Really. Just promise me," Thranduil said in an undertone as he caught sight of Laerlend walking beside the Dwarf, chattering quietly about her new necklace. "Promise me that you will *never* flirt with a Dwarf, and never say he is a "sweet thing."
Legolas' eyes widened in horror, and he stared back at his sister.
"Don't worry, Ada," he murmured fervently. "I would never do that."
*************************************
The very next morning, the Bearers of the Gifts left Gladaran Thamas mounted on fine matching horses of silver grey with trappings of green and silver, embroidered with the oak and beech leaves of Mirkwood. A packhorse of purest sable carrying the gifts trotted behind them. The carefully chosen bottle of wine was packed in linen inside a padded box of silver, resting safely in one of the pack baskets. Perched atop the horse's back was an ornate silver cage that had once housed a spider named Niben Morny. Nestled inside it now was Bastryn, his golden collar winking in the sunlight. Atop the small furry head was a wreath of bright flowers enchanted to remain fresh at least until Elrond had received his new "pet." Thranduil himself had crafted it, his long agile fingers deftly weaving the daffodils, violets, tulips, and tiny hyacinths into a suitable crown for the slumbering spider. A shimmery blue cape had been fashioned and was tied about the spider's shoulders. Special bottles of "Magic Spider Water" resided in the other basket beneath the carefully wrapped leash. A solemn gathering watched them stroll over the bridge, the horses' hooves beating a slow cadence.
"You're sure he put the Morn Nen water in, aren't you?" Tavor asked Legolas as they watched the Bearers depart.
"He said he did." Mirkwood's prince gazed over at Brethil who was sobbing against Tanglinna's chest, the Master Archer's arms about him in a comforting manner, the lean face looking almost tender. "I am sure he did. We can ask him . . . later."
Thranduil rested one hand on his youngest son's shoulder, his face a mask of seriousness.
"You did a very good job choosing this year, Legolas," he said, causing Legolas to gaze up at him in disbelief. "A fine job, nin ion." A smile played across his lips. "I only wish that I could be there to see the look of . . . joy that will be on Elrond's face when they finally arrive."
Legolas frowned and looked after the riders.
"Joy, Ada? I . . .I do not think . . .joy, Ada?"
Celebross snorted slightly, and nudged Aralith who looked suspiciously like he was sleeping standing up. He shifted Laerlend's slight weight in his arms, her head pillowed on his shoulder. She had fallen asleep the night before very, very late, so excited was she about her "Golden Flower" necklace that Nodfang was making for her. She had not been happy to be roused so early from her warm bed so early this morning.
"Of course," Thranduil said with a reproving glance at them. "What else do you expect him to be feeling on seeing such magnificent gifts arriving from King Thranduil Oropherion, gifts chosen by Prince Legolas himself?"
Legolas blinked, and the frown deepened. Surely his Ada was not serious. He didn't have time to dwell on it as he turned, hearing Brethil sniffing in earnest now. The horses were now beneath the spreading trees, taking to the path that would lead them west toward Imladris. Tanglinna grimaced slightly as he gazed down at the damp front of his tunic. Younglings! His slender, strong fingers moved gently over Brethil's head and tenderly squeezed the slim shoulder.
"Namarie, Lend Laes Bastryn," Bronadui's young son gulped, tears continuing to course down his cheeks as he waved after the horses and riders. "Remember that Naneth Lhing loves you. Namarie! Bye!"
Author's Notes
At last! The gifts are on their way, and in the next chapter we will visit Imladris. Heh heh! =^-^= (cute cat face)
Wow! Such nice reviews you guys left me! You make me So Very Happy! ^-^
I really had no idea where the leash that Brethil found for Bastryn came from until Jay of Lasgalen wondered what it had been used for originally, and then shirebound took it one step further and suggested that perhaps it had been Thranduil's pet spider in Ages past. Bryn of course suggested the leash in the first place, and Oh Man, that bunny was BIG and continues to grow all the time! My eyes nearly popped, and I did my happy dance over that one! G Thank you, bryn, Jay of Lasgalen, and nin Periain mellon shirebound!
When Tanglinna calls Brethil Bronaduion he is merely saying Bronadui's son. For what happened to Brethil's Ada stay tuned for The Jade King, coming soon to a fanfiction site near you, from Katharine the Great and myself.
Someone out there should recognize the well-worn farewell that Brethil uses with Bastryn. He must truly be going going gone! Yes, I will say it. "Poor Brethil!" :(
Most sincere apologies to al my wonderful, long-suffering beta! Please forgive me! I am so sorry. Too many to count this time. =O.O= I am so sorry!
Response to Reviewers
JastaElf - So you knew what water was in the wine?? Guess not! :) Yes, the "wigglies". I suppose that is not a very nice thing to call it, but that is what it is called. Bastryn is a lot of fun, but well, his fate has been decided. Can anyone say "Poor Elrond!" :) Laerlend will indeed get hers! I can't wait! Well, maybe I can.*guilt guilt* I haven't written much on that chapter yet. :( Or others.:( Ah, yes.the long wait in the Halls of Mandos for Tanglinna. Well, I would love to hear your theory on this. As far as I know Glorfindel is the only one who ever did get sent back. Why is that? Why haven't all the Elves eventually come back? Why hasn't a certain beautiful Elf Queen of Mirkwood come back????? That would be just too wonderful! Someone in your story needs his Naneth desperately. Can she please be released soon???? I think that would be cool!!
eriks-lil-rocker - Well, if you have read "In the Hall." then "Hollin", and now this one you read them in the correct order. I know that my chronology gets confusing. It confuses me at times. I am glad you like my "fancy" spiders.
the evil witch queen - Well, you wanted me to send the spider so away he went! The wine went and Morn Nen water.hmm..separately.or are they?? ;) About posting my pics on the bio page.well, at the bottom of the support services there is a profile picture box, which allows you to post a picture. I wish mine came out better, and they will when I acquire a scanner.
Jay of Lasgalen - :) Your review certainly brightened my day. Thank you for making me begin to think more about the leash. I have to laugh at you and Jasta. So certain were you about the water in the wine! Little Yoda imitation there.heh heh. I knew that is what everyone would think, so I decided.well, you saw what I decided. Wicked me! Heehee. You are right about the children's entrance in the last chapter. It reminded me of "The King of Siam" too. I loved that part!
None - Hi! I think you are right in saying that trouble just loves Legolas and his friends. They do try very hard to stay away from it, but it always finds them! LOL to you saying Ah, Valar! And your boyfriend not understanding. I have gotten strange looks from people I don't know when I say it aloud. My family is quite used to hearing it at this point.
shirebound - You are actually starting to "love" Bastryn?? Yikes! LOL He isn't that lovable really. Though it really isn't his fault that he is a spider. . . just ask Brethil. :) Or don't. . . unless you want to sit all day and hear about Lend Laes Bastryn. I am glad you are enjoying my Wonderful World of Elves. You know I already find Hobbits to be the most amazing creatures and written so well by you, nin Perian mellon. (my Hobbit friend) Thank you for informing me that the leash had once belong to King Thranduil and Little Blacky. I didn't know that!! :)
addicted - LOL to your "whole story of squirrel straightness." I have never thought about squirrels quite like that before. I am actually one of those strange people that buys squirrel food and sets out for the squirrels instead of trying to find ways to keep them from eating the bird food. I enjoy watching them myself.
Lakergurl13 - You did spell Laerlend correctly! Kudos to you! She did sing about Glorfindel, so expect that to come up somewhere in the Glorfindel story. Someone has not forgotten what she sang or the jewelry she wanted. Should be some fun for someone to "give it" to Laerlend. Erm . . . I think you really need to try and get over your dislike of the Dwarves. Legolas liked one of them after all. Bastryn can't help that he is a spider. :( Poor little guy. As for Tavor, he is still in the land of the living. I don't think I could kill off anyone else that I like so much. :( Yes, cockroaches are ICKY! Plastic or otherwise. Palmetto bugs too, which I understand are GIANT cockroaches, just ask al or Irena. ;)
IRENA - You know you love it when all heck breaks loose! That is what makes life -er-interesting. ;) And yes, they were lucky to survive as long as they did. I miss Brethil a lot too. :( Oh, well. Life is tough. At least he remained a "male" Elf 'til the end. :( Unlike some poor Prince who is now a Queen with a baby that needs his Naneth, and he has to remember her and go back from the blue forest, even though he doesn't want to remember! :( Good-bye now, before I cry again!!
Princess ArWen of sMirkwood - Ah! Someone else who thought they put Morn Nen water into the wine. I guess I was being deliberately misleading! Well actually. . . I had a scenario all worked out that they did, but I changed my mind! About Legolas' movie clothes, there is always hope to see him in something a bit fancier (but I loved his clothes in the movie, too) at the wedding at the end of ROTK. We will keep our fingers crossed! LOL You want Thranduil to make Legolas drink Morn Nen water?? EEP! LOL
Hildestohl - Sorry my updates are a bit on the slow side of late. I am glad you enjoy my dialog. I enjoy writing it. Sometimes they talk so quickly that I have to tell them to slow down so I can write it! You actually WANT more Brethilitis?? Come and speak to my husband who has taken to telling *me* to "shut up. You talk to much!" More Brethilitis will be forth coming. . . just for you!
Seaweed - I am glad you think wee Laerlend is cute. It is much easier to handle her personality when she is about 3 or 4. Wigglies??? Nevermind. . . What? You don't like the King's wigglies?? Or perhaps you meant he King might not like them being called the wigglies?? Tell Gimli for me that he is a "Dear Dwarf" and a "Sweet Thing" too! I understand that Dwarves like dark places, living in caves as they do, but really! The cupboard??!! Tell him he is very cute when he sulks! LOL Yes, a bit of Brethil lives in you. :)
Curumargul - Wow! Thanks so much! TRICKSY TRIO FOREVER! I should make that into a bumper sticker or something! :) Don't worry. I will continue to write about them until my fingers fall off. It is good to know that people are enjoying their escapades. WooHoo! (c. Celeborn)
The Sadistic Cow - Great Valar! I am glad you liked King Thranduil's wigglies so much! :) I thought it was funny. My family thinks that I am nuts when I start laughing for no apparent reason, or smiling when I think of something I want to write. They just don't get it. So I am very glad that you do!
PuterPatty - Orc Writer. . . Spider Writer. . . Well, when I started my stories I certainly never envisioned Orcs and Spiders becoming such a big part of them, but they have. There must be something seriously wrong with me! ;) Bastryn "sounds adorable"?? O.O Okay. . . :) =O= (four legged spider) Heehee! Sorry. LOL to yet another one who though the Morn Nen was in the wine! I guess I did a pretty good job fooling everyone! Except. . . well, I did change my thoughts on that, so I fooled myself. :)~ Collars that itch are the bane of my existence. My wedding dress had to have silk sown in around the lace collar because my neck got so irritated and turned a bright red. So I am passing some of it onto Legolas I guess. Do you realize . . . yes, I guess at the end you *did* realize that you were a bit like Brethil. Long, long, long! I loved it! Yes, al does not like these long chapters. . . she told me your was long too! Go figure. It didn't feel long to me when I read it. Of course I didn't have to look for commas and swans and slaves. LOL Poor al! I know she must have wanted to slap me after this chapter! So your long discussions with Legolas about your stories are at night?? Mine with my "gang" are in the morning while I am still laying in bed. They do have a way of telling you things "after" the fact. But you have to love them. . . Shutting up now! :)
Anya - Ring of Sarcasm - ROFL You really do have it bad, don't you!?!? Haven't you ever woken up with a spider sitting on your bed?? I have. Granted that was years ago when my own arachnophobia was still in full swing. Not a pretty picture to say the least. So okay. . .perhaps a spider as a pet is NOT a good idea for you. But they are so sweet! ;) Bastryn is not ICKY! He is a nice spider. . . really! Well, maybe not *that* nice, but he is a sweetheart! Well, maybe not, but -:)
Daphne - Yes, the Tricksy Trio are very well known even outside of Mirkwood. After all Thranduil does have dealings with the other people around him, and I am sure he has told some amusing tales about "those boys." :)
Silvarn Vilya - *stares in shock* You reviewed?!?!?! I don't believe it! Imladris reviewed the Mirkwood story! You have not fallen behind the power curve, nin mellon, just gone off to "another world" for a time shall we say. I expect to see a story soon set in your other world, and it will be as wondrous as always!
Skye - I am glad that you enjoyed Brethil's babblings about Bastryn. It is fun to work with Brethil. The Wood Elves need "efficient knowledge management?" LOL Yes, I think they do! Ah! So you are allowing to tiny spiderlings to live in your bedroom?? Wonderful! Well. . . yes, I must say that you are turning into some kind of Naneth Lhing! :) Brethil is so proud of you!
Nessawen or Nassawen - Thank you so much for your reviews! They made me very happy! Why isn't Laerlend in "In the Hall??" Good question. You answered it correctly. Laerlend was invented at a later date for another story, and it wasn't until recently that I have decided to tie all my stories together in one nice neat package. I plan on going back to "In the Hall" and inserting her somewhere. Any ideas where she would fit in?
amlugwen - You are welcome! You bowled me over there with that greeting last time around! You were very close about the mud monster named Mesg for now. Cliffhanger?? Was that a cliffhanger in the last chapter? I seldom write those things anymore as so many others excel in doing just that lately! Well, there was no cliffhanger in this chapter. Nice, neat and all tied in a bow. :)
Noone - Someone else who thought I left it hanging last time. Hmm. . .maybe I did. :) Not this time though. I hope you didn't die waiting for this one. I write as quickly as time and my muse will permit. Hmmm. . . sounds like you are a bit afraid of catching Brethilitis! Don't worry, I won't tell you to shut up. I hear that enough myself lately, so I wouldn't do it to anyone else. :) Brethilitis can be quite fun actually! ;)
al - Two chapters' worth of reviews! WooHoo! Long, long, long chapters they were, eh, nin mellon beta person??!! Yes, the slave is mine, the swan is PuterPatty's. :) Yes, those extra commas are starting to pile up once more, aren't they! Tell Viggo he is quite welcome to the Gwaur caun. Hot tub? Oh, you mean the new one you got this summer for the belly-flopping, cannon-balling prince?? ;) Yes, you did make a math mistake. 1+1+1+1=4 not 3. PuterPatty had to set me straight on that one too. Good thing she has taught math! :) I am glad you seemed to enjoy those long, long, long chapters. And what -yes, don't start with and! - what about the smiling, tight ??? Nevermind indeed. Turn the bubbles off, al and just get it over with! ;)
Nadra - My goodness! You are very stubborn, aren't you?!!? Well, so am I! Glorfindel IS alive and well and living in Middle Earth in Imladris! He did not "magically appear." He was released from the Halls of Mandos when Mandos felt he had sat there long enough. LOL I can't get into this discussion now. It would take all day! You and al should get together. She finds Orlando very snoggable too! Well as of today it is only 9 - great number btw!- until TTT! WooHoo! (c. Celeborn) Excitement abounds in my house. . .at least for me! The video game is very cool, my kids have taken it over though it belongs to ME! But yes, the Trolls are a mystery! ;) Okay, expect me to come to Angband and take my beloved Glorfindel away from you! You asked for it! You should have left the Golden Flower alone!
Karina - Karina! You are making me so jealous! The exhibit sounded wonderful! GRRRR!!!! Why can't it come here!? *chants Please Come To DC! Then Jasta and I could go see it together!* LOL I do wish it would get down here. . . somewhere! It is too bad they didn't allow any photos to be taken. I would have taken oodles, as I am sure you would have too! I am glad you liked Laerlend's choice of songs. I thought it was most interesting myself. :) I think Tavor will be glad to be in the Mandos Hall room at the clinic. Much better than the spider room. . . from his POV anyway. Also - I was glad to see the "Return of Leslie Greenleaf." Very very cool chapter! Awesome! Bodacious! Loved it! Shutting up! ;)
Pseudonym Sylphmuse - I think the Tricksy Trio would love their small measure of popularity. Especially Tavor. Though I am sure he hopes his own Aralithus isn't too well known. Brethil on the other hand would think it hilarious if everyone knew that Tavor was scared of "ickle spiddies." Excuse me, slipped into Harry Potter mode there for a second. Oops! ;)
Lassemista - Wow! You *have* been doing some research. Aralith does mean Noble Ash. I meant the tree though of course Lith means ash and dust. LOL The joke is on me! Or him, poor prince! Elvish can be quite fun. I had forgotten what some of the names had meant. Thank you for reminding me. Most of them mean "something". I try for it anyway, though at times it is rather hard to come up with something appropriate. You should be proud of yourself. Good job! Worthy of a cat face! =^-^= And yes. . .I love you! :)
Katharine the Great - Two chapters' worth of reviews from you, too! :) First, you want to *marry* Tanglinna?? *blink blink* LOL Yes, you said that out loud. You have not been the first to think it, but the first to utter it so others can hear! He grumbled a bit about it, but I can tell he is rather pleased. :) Of course he has a sweeter side, how could you doubt it?? Yes, they were your squirrels. :) The snort that accompanied the statement "Little King of the Wood-Elves, indeed" sounded very Oropherion to me. O.` that is as close to a "wigglie" as I can get on this machine. g
Ithilien - You want a story just about Bastryn, or one from his POV?? Hmm. . . well, yes, that sounds like a plot bunny to me. Oh, no! Not another one! ;) Mine haven't exploded as yet, and as I don't like "Icky stuff" that is a good thing! LOL Brethil does need to focus a *lot* more. Well, actually he *did* hide it in a safe place. :) That was a very nice thought about getting the tainted wine out before anyone noticed, but as you see it wasn't necessary. As to Bastryn not staying down very long, he was due to be sprinkled that night. . .by Brethil who forgot. That is why he was up and running. Glad you liked the Christmas card on my bio page. :)
LATOKS - First thank you for reviewing. I was a "silent reader" myself for quite a while. I am glad that you are enjoying this, and I hope that you continue to do so. I like the dark angsty stuff, too. :) Don't we all? I write the humor to help me cope with the dark angsty stuff!
AndromacheCassandra - Yes, Elrond is about to get his presents. It did take me a while to send them, didn't it??!! You want Thranduil to send the Tricksy Trio to Imladris?? Yikes! They and the twins would have way too much fun! Elrond would have to return the favor and send Elladan and Elrohir back to Mirkwood at the end of the year! ;)
Still Anonymous - Mae Govannen, Still Anonymous! :) Mystery is always good! Well, yes, I would have to agree. We are both nuts! We are in such good company though, as I know several people who answer to the description of reads/writes LOTR fanfiction. My husband is more like King Thranduil in personality. He has his moments of fun and lightheartedness, but he is usually serious minded. Not me! ;) LOL to lecturing your father about the parentage of Elrond's children! My husband would be doing the wigglies if I started that! Bastryn is definitely *not* like Gwibess. He is much more like a Mirkwood spider. Poor little thing! But he is no longer going to be a problem. . . not in Mirkwood anyway! ;) It does take a lot to work up Tanglinna. He has known the royal Mirkwood family for a VERY long time now and is quite used to them and their ways. Legolas is pretty good about not panicking too much when things go wrong. I have learned over the year to control my own panic over things that go wrong. . . well, mostly. Btw - Tavor is doing quite well at Karina's mental health clinic. I suspect that she may have to add on after this story is over. I know some Imladris Elves who might need some help! ;) So. . . now that you have an account with ff.net where is your story?? :)
9 days and counting! :):):):):):):):):) O-O Yes, NINE!
"SPIDER! SPIDER!"
Prince Aralith, second son of King Thranduil Oropherion, leapt onto his chair, his eyes wide with terror as he held his long pale green robes up about his trembling knees.
Thranduil groaned, but managed to not grab his golden locks in frustration. He ground his teeth together and glanced at Tanglinna who had a smirk on his face. The Master Archer turned to look at his king.
"Isn't that Niben Morny's leash?" he asked above the murmur of startled and frightened voices, his grey eyes filled with delight.
Thranduil stared at the golden leash attached to the gem-encrusted collar, which flashed rather pleasantly against Bastryn's dark fur. He had not thought of "Little Blacky" in many years, not until Bastryn had showed up in the garden that morning. He had never told his children about his spider, as he felt it would negate the "No Pet Spider" rule. Oropher had not been pleased with his son's leggy pet any more than Thranduil had been pleased with Legolas' newest acquisition. At least Little Blacky had never interrupted dinner! His eyes narrowed as he watched Brethil yanking on his braid and looking rather confused as to what he should be doing. Tavor had moved to stand behind Nodfang who was gaping at the spider with incredulity. Thranduil sighed, willing a measure of patience to temper his voice.
"Little Greenleaf," he began as Bastryn stared up at them, hissing in surprise at such a large gathering.
"Li'l Greenleaf, you are in so much trouble," Laerlend declared from where she stood atop her chair, arms folded over her chest, her miniature version of the wigglies in full force. Sellond scooped her up from the chair and eased backward toward the wall, the nurse's eyes wide. "Why are you scared of a silly spider?" Laerlend asked, mild disgust on her face. She had always thought Sellond a rather brave nurse until now. "You are as bad as Aralith."
Little Greenleaf swallowed, and turned to meet his father's eyes.
"Please take your spider out of the room. . . after you apologize for this. . .this. . .this. . . this."
"We. . .we will catch him, Adar," the youngling stammered, his cheeks flaring a bright crimson. He recalled only too well how hard it was to "catch him."
"*I* am not catching him!" Tavor protested vehemently, surprising Nodfang who turned to look at the young Elf cowering behind his stout body. The youngling quirked a small smile at the bushy, black-haired Dwarf, and shrugged apologetically.
"Surely there is nothing to fear from that little spider," Nodfang said with an encouraging nod. "A brave young warrior of Mirkwood like yourself surely can overcome such a small. . .bug."
"Yes, Tavor," Laerlend chirped. "It should be easy for a 'brave young warrior' like you."
"Quiet, young one," Sellond scolded.
Laerlend turned to her, eyebrows shooting upward. She hmphed and tossed her golden head, arms folded about her chest.
Tavor swallowed as King Thranduil's eyes slid to him. The Elfling felt that his behavior would reflect on the entire community of Elven Warriors. This was Not Good. He straightened, his face pale.
"Well, I . . . I . . ." he glanced toward Legolas for help, but the young prince was edging around the table, slowly advancing on Bastryn. "I am not a Warrior yet," he continued haughtily. "I haven't the braids, you see." Then his eyes rested on Prince Aralith who had so recently gained his braids. "At least I am not standing on my chair."
Tanglinna snorted.
"No, you are hiding behind a Dwarf, youngling," he said with a chuckle.
Thranduil felt that he could throttle them all, as he turned to glare at his middle son.
"Aralith! Get down this moment!" he barked sharply. Couldn't anyone in his family act in a dignified manner? At least Celebross looked perfectly collected. Or did he? Thranduil noted the dreamy smile on his son's lips as he stared at the doorway, seemingly unaware of the chaos that was erupting in this room. The King frowned as he noted the tall Sylvan Elf maiden that stood in the doorway, her long rich brown tresses spilling over her bared shoulders as she smiled back at his son and heir.
~He has to flirt NOW?!~ Thranduil thought with amazement.
Randor watched with anticipation as Prince Legolas moved cautiously to stand several feet behind the cat-sized Mirkwood spider while the third young Elf knelt down in front of it, crooning softly.
The spider was staring at the Elf, an odd, gentle look on its face. It quivered slightly, confused by all the people.
"Wicked Elves," it hissed, crimson eyes flaring. "No more sleeping."
"Sleeping?" Menardil said with a questioning glance at Thranduil. "I understood that you shot them, Your Majesty. Or do you perhaps sing lullabies to them instead?"
Nodfang guffawed and banged Tavor on the back as Thranduil drew a deep breath, muttering to himself that he would not lose his temper. No, he would not!
"You Elves certainly are a perplexing and merry lot," Nodfang said as Tavor staggered forward slightly. "Pet spiders! Who would have thought it?"
"Who indeed!" Tanglinna agreed with an amused expression on his lean face as he watched Thranduil wrestle with the temptation to yell at someone. "It seems to be a family trait."
Thranduil shot a glare in his direction, but then had to repress an amused smile. After all, one either saw the amusement in this or one lost one's temper entirely, which made one look silly.
Legolas was gesturing at Brethil, who looked up and blinked.
"What Legolas?" the younger Elf said. "I didn't understand you."
Legolas let out an exasperated sigh and motioned at Bastryn, then pretended to grab the spider. Then he pointed at Brethil and made the same motion once more. Brethil frowned and blinked again.
Laerlend sighed.
"He wants you to grab the spider from that side, Brethil," she told him with as much patience as she could muster.
Brethil's face brightened. He smiled and nodded.
"Thank you, Laerlend! I am so sorry, Bastryn," he said with a slight sigh as his gaze slid to the spider once more, "it really is for your own good." Then he nodded at Legolas once more, and stood.
Suddenly the two Elves lunged at the little spider, but the little spider had been expecting some sort of attack, as it had happened so often before with these two. Bastryn leapt into the air, causing Legolas and Brethil to collide with one another and land on the floor in a tangle of adolescent limbs. Bastryn bounced off them and catapulted to the table.
The guests moved hastily away, making noises of fear and surprise at the unexpected action of the arachnid that landed in the table's center, perching atop a floral creation hissing and creaking at them. Aralith had leapt from his chair, and bolting across the room and out the door. Laerlend shook her head.
"They are so silly," she muttered, her arms still folded over her chest and surveying them all with mild disapproval.
"Wicked Elves," the spider hissed, "making Bastryn sleep all the time!"
"He knows his name!" Brethil exclaimed excitedly, climbing to his feet with some difficulty as he had become entangled in Legolas' robe. "He knows his name! How wonderful! You are so smart, Bastryn! You're such a smart little spider. Such a little sweetheart! Yes, you are!"
Randor nearly choked at the ridiculousness of the situation. He knew King Thranduil must have been nearly dying as his face contorted in his attempt to restrain himself before his guests, but for some reason it looked as though he were choking back laughter. He watched as Prince Legolas rose, yanking at his troublesome green robe and growling beneath his breath.
Legolas shot a look at the young Elf named Brethil, blue eyes flashing, but then he looked to his father and gulped. How could things have gotten out of hand so quickly? He noted a server nearby, still holding a tray bearing the decanters of wine. Legolas swallowed, knowing that what he was about to do was not "A Good Thing", or even "A Wise Thing", but it was all he could think of. He took a couple of shaky breaths then turned grabbing the decanter from the tray and yanking out the stopper. He splashed the wine on Bastryn who spluttered at him, waving his long legs in the air.
"Little Greenleaf! What are you doing?!"
"It will make him go to sleep," Legolas explained, his eyes never wavering from the spider, who was now thoroughly enraged and growling low in its throat.
"What are you talking about, Little Greenleaf?" the king asked, feeling his temper fray once more as his fingers knotted on the long sleeves of his flowing robes. Splashing wine about was not going to help things at all.
"Well," Legolas grimaced. "You see. . . that is. . . well . . ."
Brethil stood, rubbing his head where it had connected with Legolas rather bony knee, and blinked several times.
"It is all my fault, Your Majesty," he said, brushing his hair from his eyes, which were filled with woe. "It is not Little Green-er-Legolas' fault. I was the one who hid the Morn Nen water, not Legolas. . . or Tavor for that matter. Why are you standing behind that Dwarf, Tavor? I thought I had found a good hiding place, but I guess it wasn't good enough. I am certain that they put it in the wine accidentally. I hope it was just an accident. That would be rude otherwise. Um, Legolas. . .it doesn't seem to be working," he pointed at Bastryn who had risen to his full height. "My he has grown, hasn't he! Such a big boy! What a big spider you are, Bastryn."
Nodfang turned to gaze at Menardil who stood nearby.
"I thought these Wood Elves were supposed to be quiet creatures," the Dwarf said with a laugh.
Menardil smiled and shrugged, knowing quite well that any comment on that subject at this moment would not be wise.
Legolas had realized that the wine did not seem to be working. Perhaps the vintage had somehow negated the effects of the water, or just slowed it. He looked at his father, who was not wearing his "Happy Monarch" face.
~I am already in trouble, so it really doesn't matter if I do it again. Does it? ~
A small groan escaped his lips as he moved slowly toward another server and grabbed up another decanter.
"Little Greenleaf! If you think that -!"
The watered wine flew toward Bastryn, but Tanglinna had moved to intercept his prince and it splashed down the Master Archer's beautiful dark grey robes. Legolas' mouth opened and his eyes widened. Tavor gasped in shock, and moved to stand completely behind Nodfang. Brethil blinked and shook his head.
"Oh, Legolas. You were supposed to throw it on Bastryn, not on Master Tanglinna. Though I must say that the red color of the wine looks nice with your robes, Master Tanglinna. It just matches your shoes, too. Oh. . . they were grey too, weren't they? Well, they are red now, but they do look nice. In fact -"
"Shut up, Brethil," Tanglinna breathed quietly as he stared down at his sodden shoes. He frowned and shook his head. He really despised these dinners. He grimaced, and was about to look to Thranduil to ask his leave to go and change when he heard a snort of laughter. The Master Archer recognized it well enough and looked up.
Thranduil was staring at him with a look of sheer delight on his face, the blue eyes lit with mirth. Tanglinna drew in a deep breath and straightened to his full height, trying to exude as much dignity as he could, considering that his shoes squished and he would leave a wine trail behind him when he moved.
"If you will excuse me, Your Majesty, I will go and change." He bowed his head, then turned gracefully, and headed toward the door, ignoring the wet squelching sounds that came from below him. Thranduil had other ideas though.
"Take the spider with you, Tanglinna." One eyebrow rose in challenge, and Tanglinna narrowed his eyes.
Brethil gasped as the Master Archer advanced toward the table, a fierce scowl on his face. The noise his shoes were making sounded very like the sound Mesgwauruan made. Bastryn puffed up and hissed fiercely.
"Don't even think about it," the silver haired Elf growled at the small Mirkwood arachnid, his eyes narrowed.
The spider gulped slightly, and shrank back. The look on the old Elf's face was one he had never seen before, and fear coursed through the furry body.
"Don't let it hurt me, Naneth Lhing," he moaned at Brethil, using the words he had heard the other two Elves call this one. "Please! Bastryn will be good. I promise! Keep that wicked, bad, old Elf away from me!"
"Oh, don't hurt him, please! He is really a nice spider! He truly is! He doesn't mean to cause trouble or bite anyone. Well, perhaps he does mean to bite people, but I suppose that is because he is a spider. You really mustn't blame him. He can't help that he was born a spider! Don't hurt him, Master Tanglinna! Please! Oh! Oh! He called me Naneth Lhing! Did you hear that, Legolas? Tavor? He called me Naneth Lhing!"
Tanglinna, who had no intention of hurting the spider, turned to look at the youngling. He saw the wide grey eyes filled with elation at being called a Mother Spider, the long slender fingers clamped about the braid, which hung to the child's slim waist. It was good to see that the child was more himself once again. He sighed and shook his head. Why was this silly one always affecting him this way? Hmph. He knew why. He smiled kindly at the child of his dead friend, reaching out to stroke the slightly tousled blonde locks, and trying not to remember the look of shock and overwhelming sorrow that had marred this sweet face not long before, and causing the tripping tongue to fall into silence.
"I am not going to hurt him, Brethil Bronaduion. Why don't you accompany me, and tell me where he resides . . . for now," he added with a look at Legolas. Then he walked to the table and scooped up the surprised arachnid, and deftly tucked him under one arm, and bowed to the King, managing to keep his eyes quite bland and devoid of any thoughts of revenge on Thranduil for this ignominy.
Brethil trotted to his side, amazed that Bastryn was behaving. He dared to reach out and pet the black head.
"What a good boy you are, Lend Laes Bastryn," he said with a smile as he hurried to keep up with Tanglinna's longer strides, reaching out on hand to grasp one of Tanglinna's. "Maybe the Morn Nen water is working after all," he commented as he passed Legolas, "though I think he should be asleep if it was. It must be because he loves his Naneth. Sweet baby Bastryn."
The spider wanted to do nothing more than bite the two Elves, but he knew that it was not in his best interest at present. He could wait. He could wait until the silver haired one wasn't there any more. Then he would bite something. Or someone.
Thranduil waited until the unlikely pair had exited the room before motioning to Galion, who had entered in time to see Tanglinna get splashed with the wine.
"I think that perhaps we will use the smaller dining room this night, Galion. Please have it prepared for my guests and me. Bring some of the Dorwinion wine to the Hall where we will be waiting."
Galion blinked several times and then bowed and hastened away, shooing the servers ahead of him. The King *had* said Dorwinion, hadn't he? Was that possible?
"Oh, Galion? No water this time."
Galion gazed at his king, and then bowed. He would have to speak to Taltalad about where he had gotten the water. He thought he had heard young Brethil say something about Morn Nen. That of course was impossible. . . wasn't it?
"As you wish, your majesty," he said, then hastily exited, wondering what was going on with the watered wine. Then he reentered the room. "You did say the Dorwinion, didn't you?" he asked, trying to look as if he knew exactly what was going on.
Thranduil nodded. He deserved Dorwinion. . . they all did after this.
"That is what I said, Galion. The Dorwinion."
The guests murmured appreciatively, trying to keep the shock from their faces as they felt it would be impolite. Randor blinked several times, and pinched himself. Surely he was dreaming!
Menardil turned and moved to the one server that was sopping up the mess on the tablecloth, having set aside his tray with the decanter, and poured himself a glass of the wine. Why had they put water in it? That was highly unusual. He took a sip from the glass, rolling it around on his tongue. He grimaced slightly at the taste.
"King Thranduil, I am sorry that I sent you this inferior stuff. I will have another case sent immediately to replace it." He took another sip, then set the glass down. The Dorwinion was a *much* better choice.
"No!" Legolas and Thranduil yelled at the same time.
Menardil frowned and looked at them.
"What is the matter? I apologize once again that the wine was so bad. Though I admit I wish I had sent it to you sooner if it meant we would get to sample the Dorwinion," he grinned.
Thranduil glanced down at Legolas, who shut his eyes and yanked on his collar, and then they both stood silently to see when the vintner would fall asleep. He merely stared at them in confusion.
"How. . . how do you feel?" Thranduil asked after a moment. "Do you feel sleepy at all?"
"Sleepy?" Menardil asked. "No. I have not had that much wine, Your Majesty," he grinned. "Why do you ask? I must admit that tonight has been highly entertaining. I assure you that I am quite awake. I am wondering what might happen next." He chuckled and the others joined him.
"As am I," Nodfang laughed.
Laerlend squirmed in Sellond's arms until she was set on the floor. She walked over to the Dwarf, and looked up into his face. She peered around his bulk to look at Tavor, and shook her head in disbelief at the fearful "I am not a Warrior yet." He smiled weakly, and shrugged.
"You make nice jewelry, don't you?" she chirped, turning all her flirtatious attention on the black bearded Dwarf. She had been quite jealous of the sparkling collar around the spider's throat, and wanted something equally pretty and bright for herself. She knew very well that Dwarves and pretty jewels went together.
"Yes, we Dwarves are quite famous for our jewelry," Nodfang said seriously, as he looked into the child's hazel eyes. "I believe we have made some that are in your father's collection." He gazed up at the Wood Elf King and winked. Thranduil raised one brow, but said nothing.
"Would you make something for me? A necklace of golden flowers, like the one that Glorfindel has," Laerlend stated boldly. "He killed a Balrog once, you know."
Nodfang managed not to laugh out loud in delight. He looked up to see King Thranduil rolling his eyes skyward.
"You are a bold one, little Elfling princess. Just for that, I will craft you a necklace of golden flowers just like Glorfindel has. You may consider it a present for your bold beauty, and for your fair singing voice."
Laerlend smiled prettily and then threw her arms about him as well as she could manage. She threw a look of triumph at her Ada whom she knew would have refused that request, and took the Dwarf's hand in her own, having decided that he would be her partner for the evening.
"You are such a sweet thing," she said, stroking his soft beard with one small hand.
Thranduil pursed his lips in frustration. First a song about a Noldor Elf, then a necklace to honor that Noldor Elf, and *now* she was flirting with a Dwarf who looked entirely too pleased with the situation. He shook his head. What was he going to do with her?
Thranduil turned to look at Legolas once more. The child's blue eyes were filled with confusion as he pondered why Bastryn hadn't fallen asleep like he was supposed to. This at least was something that Thranduil could handle.
"I thought Brethil said," Mirkwood's King began in a low voice, "that Morn Nen water had been accidentally put into the wine."
Legolas bit his lower lip.
"Yes, that is what he said, Adar."
"Why did he say that? It is obviously not true."
Tavor squeaked slightly, and moved from behind Nodfang. He had been hoping to slip out unnoticed to get the telltale bottle of Morn Nen water as well as the wine they had chosen for Elrond from the hallway where he and Brethil had left them, but knew that was impossible now. He drew himself up proudly, calling on his grandmother's Noldor blood for courage and pride. If Laerlend could defy the king so ably, he could at least appear.well, not terrified.
"There has obviously been a mistake, Your Majesty," he said, looking squarely into the King's blue eyes, which took every ounce of determination and poise that he possessed. He tried to keep his grandmother's rather stern visage in his mind's eye, but she terrified him as well. "I apologize for any, er, disruption that Brethil and I may have caused. I do not know why we thought that the. . . the, er, wine had been, well, er, tainted with Morn Nen water. I apologize again." He bowed low, feeling his face flame. So much for Noldoran blood.
Thranduil sighed and waved his hand in dismissal. He felt to weary too deal with any more of Legolas' friends at present.
"You may go, Tavor. Please find Prince Aralith for me, and tell him to come back to dinner. I do not know how this happened either." ~ I do not *wish* to know. ~ "Where is Celebross?" he asked, realizing that his eldest was nowhere in sight either.
Menardil smiled, and winked at Randor.
"I seem to remember him saying something about saving Mirithil from the spider. Could that possibly have been that enchanting creature standing in the doorway earlier?"
Thranduil groaned quietly.
"Go and find them both, Tavor. Now."
Tavor breathed a sigh of relief and straightened. He grinned at Legolas before turning and practically sprinting from the room.
"Morn Nen water?" Nodfang said. "What is that, if I may be so bold as to ask, Your Majesty?"
Thranduil sighed. He did not wish to answer, but he felt that perhaps if told in the right way it might make a good story. He smiled at his guests saying that he would enlighten them over the Dorwinion, ~Did I really say to serve the Dorwinion? ~ and gestured for them to follow him to the "small dining room." Just then Galion came in dragging the young apprentice server.
"Your Majesty, this is Taltalad, the boy sent for the water. Tell him where you got it, Taltalad." He would not have it said that he had allowed anything so irresponsible to happen at a King's dinner.
Taltalad gasped as he stood before the King. He felt certain that he would faint if those blue eyes rested on him, so he bowed his head and stared at the floor. He didn't know what was going on this night, but he fervently hoped that it had not been his fault.
"I got it from the rain barrel outside, Your Majesty," he stammered, bowing his entire body lower.
"Rain barrel?" a small voice piped from the hall. "Rain barrel? Oh! Well, then I guess there was nothing to worry about."
Everyone turned to see Brethil standing in the hall, a bottle of wine in one hand and a bottle of water in the other. He grinned happily at them.
"I didn't hide it in the rain barrel. So you see, everything is fine. I would love to stay and chat, but Master Tanglinna needs me." He bobbed a bow to them, and then turned to skip happily down the hallway.
Thranduil shook his head. Younglings. He sighed, and cleared his throat.
~No. I will not think of this at all. ~
"You may go, Taltalad. You have done nothing wrong."
Taltalad nearly groaned with relief, and turned fleeing.
Galion started to call out to him, to tell him to walk slowly and to ask why hadn't he bowed before leaving, when Thranduil shook his head.
"Nay, Galion. Let him go. Is everything prepared in the small dining room? I believe we are all hungry." ~ The sooner we start the sooner they will all leave! That way I will have plenty of time to *not* think about this. ~
"Yes, Your Majesty. All is ready. Please follow me."
As the guests fell into line behind Thranduil, Legolas moved to walk beside his father.
"Ada?" he whispered, his hand knotted on the silky fabric of his father's robe.
"Yes, Little Greenleaf?"
"I am sorry that this happened. I really am."
Thranduil smiled down at him.
"Do not worry over it, nin ion. It has been rather. . .interesting."
Legolas gazed up at him, surprised to see the smile that played over his father's lips.
"Really?"
"Really. Just promise me," Thranduil said in an undertone as he caught sight of Laerlend walking beside the Dwarf, chattering quietly about her new necklace. "Promise me that you will *never* flirt with a Dwarf, and never say he is a "sweet thing."
Legolas' eyes widened in horror, and he stared back at his sister.
"Don't worry, Ada," he murmured fervently. "I would never do that."
*************************************
The very next morning, the Bearers of the Gifts left Gladaran Thamas mounted on fine matching horses of silver grey with trappings of green and silver, embroidered with the oak and beech leaves of Mirkwood. A packhorse of purest sable carrying the gifts trotted behind them. The carefully chosen bottle of wine was packed in linen inside a padded box of silver, resting safely in one of the pack baskets. Perched atop the horse's back was an ornate silver cage that had once housed a spider named Niben Morny. Nestled inside it now was Bastryn, his golden collar winking in the sunlight. Atop the small furry head was a wreath of bright flowers enchanted to remain fresh at least until Elrond had received his new "pet." Thranduil himself had crafted it, his long agile fingers deftly weaving the daffodils, violets, tulips, and tiny hyacinths into a suitable crown for the slumbering spider. A shimmery blue cape had been fashioned and was tied about the spider's shoulders. Special bottles of "Magic Spider Water" resided in the other basket beneath the carefully wrapped leash. A solemn gathering watched them stroll over the bridge, the horses' hooves beating a slow cadence.
"You're sure he put the Morn Nen water in, aren't you?" Tavor asked Legolas as they watched the Bearers depart.
"He said he did." Mirkwood's prince gazed over at Brethil who was sobbing against Tanglinna's chest, the Master Archer's arms about him in a comforting manner, the lean face looking almost tender. "I am sure he did. We can ask him . . . later."
Thranduil rested one hand on his youngest son's shoulder, his face a mask of seriousness.
"You did a very good job choosing this year, Legolas," he said, causing Legolas to gaze up at him in disbelief. "A fine job, nin ion." A smile played across his lips. "I only wish that I could be there to see the look of . . . joy that will be on Elrond's face when they finally arrive."
Legolas frowned and looked after the riders.
"Joy, Ada? I . . .I do not think . . .joy, Ada?"
Celebross snorted slightly, and nudged Aralith who looked suspiciously like he was sleeping standing up. He shifted Laerlend's slight weight in his arms, her head pillowed on his shoulder. She had fallen asleep the night before very, very late, so excited was she about her "Golden Flower" necklace that Nodfang was making for her. She had not been happy to be roused so early from her warm bed so early this morning.
"Of course," Thranduil said with a reproving glance at them. "What else do you expect him to be feeling on seeing such magnificent gifts arriving from King Thranduil Oropherion, gifts chosen by Prince Legolas himself?"
Legolas blinked, and the frown deepened. Surely his Ada was not serious. He didn't have time to dwell on it as he turned, hearing Brethil sniffing in earnest now. The horses were now beneath the spreading trees, taking to the path that would lead them west toward Imladris. Tanglinna grimaced slightly as he gazed down at the damp front of his tunic. Younglings! His slender, strong fingers moved gently over Brethil's head and tenderly squeezed the slim shoulder.
"Namarie, Lend Laes Bastryn," Bronadui's young son gulped, tears continuing to course down his cheeks as he waved after the horses and riders. "Remember that Naneth Lhing loves you. Namarie! Bye!"
Author's Notes
At last! The gifts are on their way, and in the next chapter we will visit Imladris. Heh heh! =^-^= (cute cat face)
Wow! Such nice reviews you guys left me! You make me So Very Happy! ^-^
I really had no idea where the leash that Brethil found for Bastryn came from until Jay of Lasgalen wondered what it had been used for originally, and then shirebound took it one step further and suggested that perhaps it had been Thranduil's pet spider in Ages past. Bryn of course suggested the leash in the first place, and Oh Man, that bunny was BIG and continues to grow all the time! My eyes nearly popped, and I did my happy dance over that one! G Thank you, bryn, Jay of Lasgalen, and nin Periain mellon shirebound!
When Tanglinna calls Brethil Bronaduion he is merely saying Bronadui's son. For what happened to Brethil's Ada stay tuned for The Jade King, coming soon to a fanfiction site near you, from Katharine the Great and myself.
Someone out there should recognize the well-worn farewell that Brethil uses with Bastryn. He must truly be going going gone! Yes, I will say it. "Poor Brethil!" :(
Most sincere apologies to al my wonderful, long-suffering beta! Please forgive me! I am so sorry. Too many to count this time. =O.O= I am so sorry!
Response to Reviewers
JastaElf - So you knew what water was in the wine?? Guess not! :) Yes, the "wigglies". I suppose that is not a very nice thing to call it, but that is what it is called. Bastryn is a lot of fun, but well, his fate has been decided. Can anyone say "Poor Elrond!" :) Laerlend will indeed get hers! I can't wait! Well, maybe I can.*guilt guilt* I haven't written much on that chapter yet. :( Or others.:( Ah, yes.the long wait in the Halls of Mandos for Tanglinna. Well, I would love to hear your theory on this. As far as I know Glorfindel is the only one who ever did get sent back. Why is that? Why haven't all the Elves eventually come back? Why hasn't a certain beautiful Elf Queen of Mirkwood come back????? That would be just too wonderful! Someone in your story needs his Naneth desperately. Can she please be released soon???? I think that would be cool!!
eriks-lil-rocker - Well, if you have read "In the Hall." then "Hollin", and now this one you read them in the correct order. I know that my chronology gets confusing. It confuses me at times. I am glad you like my "fancy" spiders.
the evil witch queen - Well, you wanted me to send the spider so away he went! The wine went and Morn Nen water.hmm..separately.or are they?? ;) About posting my pics on the bio page.well, at the bottom of the support services there is a profile picture box, which allows you to post a picture. I wish mine came out better, and they will when I acquire a scanner.
Jay of Lasgalen - :) Your review certainly brightened my day. Thank you for making me begin to think more about the leash. I have to laugh at you and Jasta. So certain were you about the water in the wine! Little Yoda imitation there.heh heh. I knew that is what everyone would think, so I decided.well, you saw what I decided. Wicked me! Heehee. You are right about the children's entrance in the last chapter. It reminded me of "The King of Siam" too. I loved that part!
None - Hi! I think you are right in saying that trouble just loves Legolas and his friends. They do try very hard to stay away from it, but it always finds them! LOL to you saying Ah, Valar! And your boyfriend not understanding. I have gotten strange looks from people I don't know when I say it aloud. My family is quite used to hearing it at this point.
shirebound - You are actually starting to "love" Bastryn?? Yikes! LOL He isn't that lovable really. Though it really isn't his fault that he is a spider. . . just ask Brethil. :) Or don't. . . unless you want to sit all day and hear about Lend Laes Bastryn. I am glad you are enjoying my Wonderful World of Elves. You know I already find Hobbits to be the most amazing creatures and written so well by you, nin Perian mellon. (my Hobbit friend) Thank you for informing me that the leash had once belong to King Thranduil and Little Blacky. I didn't know that!! :)
addicted - LOL to your "whole story of squirrel straightness." I have never thought about squirrels quite like that before. I am actually one of those strange people that buys squirrel food and sets out for the squirrels instead of trying to find ways to keep them from eating the bird food. I enjoy watching them myself.
Lakergurl13 - You did spell Laerlend correctly! Kudos to you! She did sing about Glorfindel, so expect that to come up somewhere in the Glorfindel story. Someone has not forgotten what she sang or the jewelry she wanted. Should be some fun for someone to "give it" to Laerlend. Erm . . . I think you really need to try and get over your dislike of the Dwarves. Legolas liked one of them after all. Bastryn can't help that he is a spider. :( Poor little guy. As for Tavor, he is still in the land of the living. I don't think I could kill off anyone else that I like so much. :( Yes, cockroaches are ICKY! Plastic or otherwise. Palmetto bugs too, which I understand are GIANT cockroaches, just ask al or Irena. ;)
IRENA - You know you love it when all heck breaks loose! That is what makes life -er-interesting. ;) And yes, they were lucky to survive as long as they did. I miss Brethil a lot too. :( Oh, well. Life is tough. At least he remained a "male" Elf 'til the end. :( Unlike some poor Prince who is now a Queen with a baby that needs his Naneth, and he has to remember her and go back from the blue forest, even though he doesn't want to remember! :( Good-bye now, before I cry again!!
Princess ArWen of sMirkwood - Ah! Someone else who thought they put Morn Nen water into the wine. I guess I was being deliberately misleading! Well actually. . . I had a scenario all worked out that they did, but I changed my mind! About Legolas' movie clothes, there is always hope to see him in something a bit fancier (but I loved his clothes in the movie, too) at the wedding at the end of ROTK. We will keep our fingers crossed! LOL You want Thranduil to make Legolas drink Morn Nen water?? EEP! LOL
Hildestohl - Sorry my updates are a bit on the slow side of late. I am glad you enjoy my dialog. I enjoy writing it. Sometimes they talk so quickly that I have to tell them to slow down so I can write it! You actually WANT more Brethilitis?? Come and speak to my husband who has taken to telling *me* to "shut up. You talk to much!" More Brethilitis will be forth coming. . . just for you!
Seaweed - I am glad you think wee Laerlend is cute. It is much easier to handle her personality when she is about 3 or 4. Wigglies??? Nevermind. . . What? You don't like the King's wigglies?? Or perhaps you meant he King might not like them being called the wigglies?? Tell Gimli for me that he is a "Dear Dwarf" and a "Sweet Thing" too! I understand that Dwarves like dark places, living in caves as they do, but really! The cupboard??!! Tell him he is very cute when he sulks! LOL Yes, a bit of Brethil lives in you. :)
Curumargul - Wow! Thanks so much! TRICKSY TRIO FOREVER! I should make that into a bumper sticker or something! :) Don't worry. I will continue to write about them until my fingers fall off. It is good to know that people are enjoying their escapades. WooHoo! (c. Celeborn)
The Sadistic Cow - Great Valar! I am glad you liked King Thranduil's wigglies so much! :) I thought it was funny. My family thinks that I am nuts when I start laughing for no apparent reason, or smiling when I think of something I want to write. They just don't get it. So I am very glad that you do!
PuterPatty - Orc Writer. . . Spider Writer. . . Well, when I started my stories I certainly never envisioned Orcs and Spiders becoming such a big part of them, but they have. There must be something seriously wrong with me! ;) Bastryn "sounds adorable"?? O.O Okay. . . :) =O= (four legged spider) Heehee! Sorry. LOL to yet another one who though the Morn Nen was in the wine! I guess I did a pretty good job fooling everyone! Except. . . well, I did change my thoughts on that, so I fooled myself. :)~ Collars that itch are the bane of my existence. My wedding dress had to have silk sown in around the lace collar because my neck got so irritated and turned a bright red. So I am passing some of it onto Legolas I guess. Do you realize . . . yes, I guess at the end you *did* realize that you were a bit like Brethil. Long, long, long! I loved it! Yes, al does not like these long chapters. . . she told me your was long too! Go figure. It didn't feel long to me when I read it. Of course I didn't have to look for commas and swans and slaves. LOL Poor al! I know she must have wanted to slap me after this chapter! So your long discussions with Legolas about your stories are at night?? Mine with my "gang" are in the morning while I am still laying in bed. They do have a way of telling you things "after" the fact. But you have to love them. . . Shutting up now! :)
Anya - Ring of Sarcasm - ROFL You really do have it bad, don't you!?!? Haven't you ever woken up with a spider sitting on your bed?? I have. Granted that was years ago when my own arachnophobia was still in full swing. Not a pretty picture to say the least. So okay. . .perhaps a spider as a pet is NOT a good idea for you. But they are so sweet! ;) Bastryn is not ICKY! He is a nice spider. . . really! Well, maybe not *that* nice, but he is a sweetheart! Well, maybe not, but -:)
Daphne - Yes, the Tricksy Trio are very well known even outside of Mirkwood. After all Thranduil does have dealings with the other people around him, and I am sure he has told some amusing tales about "those boys." :)
Silvarn Vilya - *stares in shock* You reviewed?!?!?! I don't believe it! Imladris reviewed the Mirkwood story! You have not fallen behind the power curve, nin mellon, just gone off to "another world" for a time shall we say. I expect to see a story soon set in your other world, and it will be as wondrous as always!
Skye - I am glad that you enjoyed Brethil's babblings about Bastryn. It is fun to work with Brethil. The Wood Elves need "efficient knowledge management?" LOL Yes, I think they do! Ah! So you are allowing to tiny spiderlings to live in your bedroom?? Wonderful! Well. . . yes, I must say that you are turning into some kind of Naneth Lhing! :) Brethil is so proud of you!
Nessawen or Nassawen - Thank you so much for your reviews! They made me very happy! Why isn't Laerlend in "In the Hall??" Good question. You answered it correctly. Laerlend was invented at a later date for another story, and it wasn't until recently that I have decided to tie all my stories together in one nice neat package. I plan on going back to "In the Hall" and inserting her somewhere. Any ideas where she would fit in?
amlugwen - You are welcome! You bowled me over there with that greeting last time around! You were very close about the mud monster named Mesg for now. Cliffhanger?? Was that a cliffhanger in the last chapter? I seldom write those things anymore as so many others excel in doing just that lately! Well, there was no cliffhanger in this chapter. Nice, neat and all tied in a bow. :)
Noone - Someone else who thought I left it hanging last time. Hmm. . .maybe I did. :) Not this time though. I hope you didn't die waiting for this one. I write as quickly as time and my muse will permit. Hmmm. . . sounds like you are a bit afraid of catching Brethilitis! Don't worry, I won't tell you to shut up. I hear that enough myself lately, so I wouldn't do it to anyone else. :) Brethilitis can be quite fun actually! ;)
al - Two chapters' worth of reviews! WooHoo! Long, long, long chapters they were, eh, nin mellon beta person??!! Yes, the slave is mine, the swan is PuterPatty's. :) Yes, those extra commas are starting to pile up once more, aren't they! Tell Viggo he is quite welcome to the Gwaur caun. Hot tub? Oh, you mean the new one you got this summer for the belly-flopping, cannon-balling prince?? ;) Yes, you did make a math mistake. 1+1+1+1=4 not 3. PuterPatty had to set me straight on that one too. Good thing she has taught math! :) I am glad you seemed to enjoy those long, long, long chapters. And what -yes, don't start with and! - what about the smiling, tight ??? Nevermind indeed. Turn the bubbles off, al and just get it over with! ;)
Nadra - My goodness! You are very stubborn, aren't you?!!? Well, so am I! Glorfindel IS alive and well and living in Middle Earth in Imladris! He did not "magically appear." He was released from the Halls of Mandos when Mandos felt he had sat there long enough. LOL I can't get into this discussion now. It would take all day! You and al should get together. She finds Orlando very snoggable too! Well as of today it is only 9 - great number btw!- until TTT! WooHoo! (c. Celeborn) Excitement abounds in my house. . .at least for me! The video game is very cool, my kids have taken it over though it belongs to ME! But yes, the Trolls are a mystery! ;) Okay, expect me to come to Angband and take my beloved Glorfindel away from you! You asked for it! You should have left the Golden Flower alone!
Karina - Karina! You are making me so jealous! The exhibit sounded wonderful! GRRRR!!!! Why can't it come here!? *chants Please Come To DC! Then Jasta and I could go see it together!* LOL I do wish it would get down here. . . somewhere! It is too bad they didn't allow any photos to be taken. I would have taken oodles, as I am sure you would have too! I am glad you liked Laerlend's choice of songs. I thought it was most interesting myself. :) I think Tavor will be glad to be in the Mandos Hall room at the clinic. Much better than the spider room. . . from his POV anyway. Also - I was glad to see the "Return of Leslie Greenleaf." Very very cool chapter! Awesome! Bodacious! Loved it! Shutting up! ;)
Pseudonym Sylphmuse - I think the Tricksy Trio would love their small measure of popularity. Especially Tavor. Though I am sure he hopes his own Aralithus isn't too well known. Brethil on the other hand would think it hilarious if everyone knew that Tavor was scared of "ickle spiddies." Excuse me, slipped into Harry Potter mode there for a second. Oops! ;)
Lassemista - Wow! You *have* been doing some research. Aralith does mean Noble Ash. I meant the tree though of course Lith means ash and dust. LOL The joke is on me! Or him, poor prince! Elvish can be quite fun. I had forgotten what some of the names had meant. Thank you for reminding me. Most of them mean "something". I try for it anyway, though at times it is rather hard to come up with something appropriate. You should be proud of yourself. Good job! Worthy of a cat face! =^-^= And yes. . .I love you! :)
Katharine the Great - Two chapters' worth of reviews from you, too! :) First, you want to *marry* Tanglinna?? *blink blink* LOL Yes, you said that out loud. You have not been the first to think it, but the first to utter it so others can hear! He grumbled a bit about it, but I can tell he is rather pleased. :) Of course he has a sweeter side, how could you doubt it?? Yes, they were your squirrels. :) The snort that accompanied the statement "Little King of the Wood-Elves, indeed" sounded very Oropherion to me. O.` that is as close to a "wigglie" as I can get on this machine. g
Ithilien - You want a story just about Bastryn, or one from his POV?? Hmm. . . well, yes, that sounds like a plot bunny to me. Oh, no! Not another one! ;) Mine haven't exploded as yet, and as I don't like "Icky stuff" that is a good thing! LOL Brethil does need to focus a *lot* more. Well, actually he *did* hide it in a safe place. :) That was a very nice thought about getting the tainted wine out before anyone noticed, but as you see it wasn't necessary. As to Bastryn not staying down very long, he was due to be sprinkled that night. . .by Brethil who forgot. That is why he was up and running. Glad you liked the Christmas card on my bio page. :)
LATOKS - First thank you for reviewing. I was a "silent reader" myself for quite a while. I am glad that you are enjoying this, and I hope that you continue to do so. I like the dark angsty stuff, too. :) Don't we all? I write the humor to help me cope with the dark angsty stuff!
AndromacheCassandra - Yes, Elrond is about to get his presents. It did take me a while to send them, didn't it??!! You want Thranduil to send the Tricksy Trio to Imladris?? Yikes! They and the twins would have way too much fun! Elrond would have to return the favor and send Elladan and Elrohir back to Mirkwood at the end of the year! ;)
Still Anonymous - Mae Govannen, Still Anonymous! :) Mystery is always good! Well, yes, I would have to agree. We are both nuts! We are in such good company though, as I know several people who answer to the description of reads/writes LOTR fanfiction. My husband is more like King Thranduil in personality. He has his moments of fun and lightheartedness, but he is usually serious minded. Not me! ;) LOL to lecturing your father about the parentage of Elrond's children! My husband would be doing the wigglies if I started that! Bastryn is definitely *not* like Gwibess. He is much more like a Mirkwood spider. Poor little thing! But he is no longer going to be a problem. . . not in Mirkwood anyway! ;) It does take a lot to work up Tanglinna. He has known the royal Mirkwood family for a VERY long time now and is quite used to them and their ways. Legolas is pretty good about not panicking too much when things go wrong. I have learned over the year to control my own panic over things that go wrong. . . well, mostly. Btw - Tavor is doing quite well at Karina's mental health clinic. I suspect that she may have to add on after this story is over. I know some Imladris Elves who might need some help! ;) So. . . now that you have an account with ff.net where is your story?? :)
9 days and counting! :):):):):):):):):) O-O Yes, NINE!