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The Path to Healing  by shirebound 17 Review(s)
Grey WondererReviewed Chapter: 7 on 11/28/2006
Beautiful! I would like to think that Bilbo was still around when Sam arrived. It is a lovely thought. I enjoyed this very much and hope that Mellon is in future stories.

Author Reply: Thank you. How wonderful that we get to imagine the hobbits' lives in the West in any way we choose. :D

DreamflowerReviewed Chapter: 7 on 11/28/2006
How wonderful! Yes, I can see this--this is not only very plausible, but very *fitting*--that by giving up *a* Ring, of his own free will, though with the encouragement of others, he can feel better about the Ring he could not give up.

You know, you made me wonder about something--Gandalf's encouragement of Bilbo, to help him in his own decision to give over his Ring--I wonder if Gandalf had the aid of Narya in that? Not that there would have been anything coercive in it, but Narya *did* have the power to kindle spirits...

In which case, that means that one of the Three actually helped in destroying the One...

This fic is really making me think!

Author Reply: I *very* much appreciate hearing that this seems plausible, as well as fitting. That really makes me very happy.

Oooh, that's an interesting idea about Narya; so little has actually been written about it! Gandalf may have 'kindled' Bilbo's spirit... as well as Frodo's, Sam's, Pippin's, Denethor's... In which case, that means that one of the Three actually helped in destroying the One... What a cool conclusion to think about! Maybe someone will write more about Narya and its subtle (or deliberate) effects.

CuthalionReviewed Chapter: 7 on 11/28/2006
That was beautiful, Janet. I thoroughly enjoyed every single chapter - and the idea of somehow giving the rings back to the elements was marvelous. Very, very well done. Thank you very much. *hugs*

Mona

Author Reply: My goodness, thank you. There's something so inspiring about Frodo's journey -- whether in Middle-earth or beyond. *hugs you back*

LarnerReviewed Chapter: 7 on 11/28/2006
Ah, how wonderful to see that task done, and with such grace.

Beautiful imagery, Shirebound.

Author Reply: I think we both see Frodo as someone of 'grace'. I love thinking of him in this "timeless" land, gently learning, healing, and living somewhat as an equal amongst the Wise.

lbiloverReviewed Chapter: 7 on 11/28/2006
There was so much I loved about this, I could quote the whole story back to you, but I think this moved me most: "As for Vilya...” She smiled warmly at her son. “Your father wishes to wear it. Its final home will be amongst the stars, on the hand of a father who is most proud of his son.”" What a lovely thought, and it brought tears to my eyes, too. I love the hopeful ending, that Bilbo will still be there when Sam arrives (oh, and Frodo's surety that Sam *will* arrive!!). Then of course, Frodo's strength to give up Narya voluntarily, and his acceptance that he could not have given up the ring so close to where it was created. Oh, and Elwing's transformation was wonderful, too! And I'd be horribly remiss not to mention this:
"“Where’s Mellon?” Frodo asked, his eyes closing.

“Walking next to us,” Gandalf replied softly. “She is at your side, and always will be.”"

*meep*



Author Reply: Oh my, thank you! I think you highlighted all *my* favorite parts, as well!

I've always thought that if Frodo could "see" Sam's children before they were born, he might have been able to glimpse other things -- such as Sam sailing West someday. :D

SurgicalSteelReviewed Chapter: 7 on 11/28/2006
I would *love* to see Bilbo interrogating Elwing over tea. Omigosh, what a wonderful scene that would be!

This was just lovely, peaceful, gentle... *sighs happily* Lovely as always!

Author Reply: Thank you so much! I wonder if Bilbo would be moved to recite his "Earendil was a mariner" verse to her? He's such a dear hobbit.

Gentle HobbitReviewed Chapter: 7 on 11/28/2006
Oh... nice. Very nice. I always feel more relaxed, and warm and comforted when I read your stories. I know that writing such stories is both your goal and your joy, so I can tell you (although I think you already know) that you are successful!

I just love the idea that Frodo gets to explore a way of healing that involves him taking on the very deed that has haunted him: giving up a valued ring. I loved how you tackled this and I eagerly look forward to your next thoughtful story.

Author Reply: What a lovely thing to say, GH. I really appreciate hearing that.

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