Stories of Arda Home Page
About Us News Resources Login Become a member Help Search

A Matter of Appearances  by Lindelea 6 Review(s)
LarnerReviewed Chapter: 17 on 8/15/2006
You do write a good villain here--a "decent" sort in his own mind, at least. And utterly believable, you know.

Now, to find out just what Tooks are made of....

Author Reply: Y'know, I always thought that graduate course in Abnormal Psychology might come in handy some day.

demeter dReviewed Chapter: 17 on 8/10/2006
Absolutely chilling! The inside of that ruffian's head is a frightening place to be! Even his own men will have to watch their backs. it sounds like one of
Farry's best hopes might be just that, the chance of strife between the men. Too bad he decided not to go after the gold at the Four Farthing Stone. I wanted to see Sam take after them with Sting! I also very much like the irony you have set up. Even as he drools over the ransom that Aragorn's beloved daughter might bring,he wonders about the seeing stone. If he knew he had the son of Aragorn's small citadel quard and shield brother, I think he WOULD BE afraid of the King's seeing stone!Too bad there was not very fast communication in Middle Earth. Where are Gwaihir and his brothers wHen you need them?

Author Reply: Someone who is completely practical is a frightening concept, especially if "untainted" by such impractical feelings as compassion.

There's a thought. Someone shout, "The Eagles are coming!" Perhaps it would startle the ruffians long enough for Farry to get away.

Pearl TookReviewed Chapter: 17 on 8/10/2006
I was not really of a mind for an interlude . . . but this was insightful. Interesting how the lives of some are colored by their experiences. Well done!!

Author Reply: Glad it was insightful. It doesn't really fit in the flow of the story, being more pondering than action, and it might be placed a chapter too late (chronologically should fall before dawn) but if it doesn't confuse the reader too much to backtrack on the timeline I'll probably leave it where it is. It breaks the tension nicely, in a way, before adding more.

DreamflowerReviewed Chapter: 17 on 8/10/2006
Oh what an interesting glimpse into the minds of the characters--the Bad Guy was especially chilling. He kind of reminded me of Fagin in Oliver Twist, as he puts his own peculiar stamp of approval on his own reprehensible actions. I found his musings on greed especially ironic. And of course, I'm beginning to feel just a wee bit sorry for "the new lad". But not for the rest of them.

And poor Pippin. Yes, indeed, it is at a time like this that he really still needs his Merry, very badly.

Author Reply: You know, you're right, Fagin would be a good comparison.

I think of all personalities, those who are pragmatic might be the among the most frightening. When you think of the horrific things that have been done in the name of practicality... and are still being done...

I'm glad you're feeling a wee bit sorry for the new lad. So am I. He has fallen amongst bad companions, and it is only too likely where that sort of thing will lead.

I am so glad that circumstances had Merry and Sam on the spot when everything broke loose. Whew!

BodkinReviewed Chapter: 17 on 8/10/2006
A practical man indeed. But practical in a very nasty way. Still, if he practically disposes of some of his assistants, that would be very helpful of him. And he will keep Farry safe ... at least until he starts sawing bits of him off.

And if Siggy is complaining about being sent off somewhere safe and pointless, I suspect he's going to end up being rather more active than he will enjoy!

This is one dawn that can't come soon enough for Pippin. He needs to be off to the rescue, even if he doesn't believe that he will be able to get there in time.

Author Reply: Poor Siggy, can't win for losing as my mum used to say.

You have pegged the head ruffian very neatly. Nasty piece of work. Cannot feel any sympathy for him, which, I suppose is a good thing, considering.

harrowcatReviewed Chapter: 17 on 8/10/2006
Crumbs, that was quick Lindelea! Thank you. A 'practical' man indeed this leader of the ruffians. Just as well that he doesn't know that he has stolen a prize even more treasured than just the son of the Thain - the son of the 'Prince of the Halflings' and a Captain of Gondor and a Knight and, above all, a close friend of the King. How much more noble can you get.

Now I really must go or I shall be late, again! Sleep well.

Author Reply: I did sleep well, thank you.

I do wish they had telephones in Middle-earth, it would be so nice if Pippin could ring up Elessar and ask him to take a gander in his Seeing Stone.

Return to Chapter List