Author’s Notes

            I’d wished to keep this series within the boundaries of the timeframe and characters covered in The Lord of the Rings, and for the most part I succeeded in remaining within those parameters.  I apologize for the inclusion of Eärendil, but would like to note that he was, in his way, a solid influence within the story, particularly in the nature of the Phial of Galadriel and in the star seen from Mordor that helped to ease Sam’s immediate distress and fear.

          Some were surprised that, having identified Arwen as the Empress, I failed to follow with Aragorn as Emperor.  First, I fear that I’d always intended to use Aragorn as the Star, Faramir as the Moon, and Boromir as the Sun; and it was a distinct pleasure to surprise some by placing Sam in the role of Emperor instead.

          It was also a pleasure to be able to write from so many different points of view, and to look at the strength of the women who ever are left behind to hearten their own while their husbands, sons, and/or brothers are off to war in the person of Esmeralda Took Brandybuck.

          I thank those who chose this theme for this Advent Calendar series for giving us the chance to examine our beloved characters in terms of the archetypes they can be identified with.  And I thank all who read and commented on the series.  May it continue to entertain in future readings.  Bless you all.