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In Empty Lands  by Larner 9 Review(s)
Agape4GondorReviewed Chapter: 16 on 9/21/2011
Exquisite.

The interplay between the four is awesome. And the lightbulb that goes off in Elrond's head is perfect!

Well done, my dear!

Author Reply: I held onto this one quite a while after I first wrote it before I got to the place in this series where this fitted. And I do think that it was probably such an interaction that led Elrond to change his mind about sending Merry and Pippin home to the Shire. Thanks so very much!

TariReviewed Chapter: 16 on 5/25/2010
Elrond's vision definitely led him in the right direction. The last two Hobbits would play a very important part in the saving of Middle-earth.

Author Reply: Oh, I agree so, Tari. Thanks so for the feedback--it is so appreciated!

KittyReviewed Chapter: 16 on 5/24/2010
Another very nice conspiracy, you know. It's always nice to see how these three take care of their beloved Frodo. And I am glad Elrond got to watch that; I can clearly see him deciding on Merry and Pippin as the last two to join the Fellowship after the realisation how much Frodo needs them and how determined they are to do everything for him.

Author Reply: There had to be some deciding moment that led Elrond to realize that Gandalf was right. And I think that his foresight perhaps helped in the decision.

Thanks again so, Kitty.

Linda HoylandReviewed Chapter: 16 on 5/7/2010
A lovely glimpse of the bond the Hobbits share and Elrond's wisdom in realising its power.

Author Reply: Oh, yes--I think that Gandalf did very well suggesting that Elrond trust to their friendship. Thanks so, Linda.

AntaneReviewed Chapter: 16 on 5/2/2010
What a sweet chapter, just awash in hobbity love. :) *hugs you and them for it* And what indeed does Arwen think of Frodo? Hmmm....

Namarie, God bless, Antane :)

Author Reply: We will find out soon enough, I think (or so I find myself hoping...). Thanks so, Antane.

AndreaReviewed Chapter: 16 on 5/2/2010
He needs them, he realized. He needs them to remain centered and grounded as Frodo of the Shire rather than merely as the Ringbearer.

Wonderfully said, and very true!

As are Elrond's observations about Merry and Pippin. At the moment and for the time they are journeying together, Frodo needs them as they are. But after the quest the Shire AND Frodo will need them changed. And that change could only happen because Elrond sent them on.

But poor Boromir! At least we know that the hobbits will make him feel less lonely for a while.

Author Reply: Am so glad you find this so satisfying, Andrea. Thanks so very much! And you are right--the Hobbits are helping to fulfill some of Boromir's spiritual needs.

KreestuhReviewed Chapter: 16 on 5/2/2010
I liked Elrond's POV in this. I think you captured him well; he reads like he does in the books, but this adds a little something to his characterization, which is something all good fanfic should do!

I've really enjoyed reading this story so far, keep up the good work.

Author Reply: Am so very glad you feel this way, Kreestuh. Thanks so! I appreciate knowing others feel I'm staying true to the characters the Master gifted to us!

DreamflowerReviewed Chapter: 16 on 5/2/2010
An interesting shift to Elrond's POV-- and I like the way you show his thought processes work. It makes the shift to Boromir's wistful thoughts at the end more comprehensible.

I liked the idea that it was perhaps some foresight of Elrond's as to their role in the Shire that caused the hesitance on his part, and not simply objection to their youth. We know that enters into it a little in canon, but most fanfic writers tend to harp on the fact that he thought them too young and innocent for the journey. This adds another dimension to the decision.



Author Reply: That Elrond apparently spoke of his concerns for the needs of the Shire apparently to Gandalf and perhaps in Frodo's hearing for it to be reported in the Red Book indicates this must have weighed heavily in his decision. Thanks so!

shireboundReviewed Chapter: 16 on 5/2/2010
I really enjoy it when the 'Big Folk' observe hobbits, especially when they learn something in doing so.

A conspiracy, Elrond thought. A conspiracy to see he is warm and comforted and--not alone; and able to remain awake as long as possible for his enjoyment.

*happy sigh* Elrond's progression of thoughts here is just lovely.

Author Reply: Yes, these continue on in their conspiracies! Heh! And love to know it so pleased you, Shirebound!

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