This chapter was just lovely!
"Frodo fit both roles. He put on a smile and a cheerful manner, but he noticed Merry’s astute and worried look. There was one person he was not fooling.
“At last!” exclaimed Pippin. “The byrding’s here. Maybe we can eat now.” The tweenager eyed the table, laden with the fine fare that Frodo and Sam had been cooking all afternoon, as well as the spectacular birthday cake.
“Not quite yet, young Took!” laughed Frodo. Pippin could always cheer him up."
Make that two people he was not fooling. How like Pippin to use merriment and laughter to make someone, especially his cousin Frodo, feel better. It is his own unique gift and will serve all of them well on the long journey ahead.
Frodo's giving of the presents was very well done. That jacket will be perfect for Sam on the long journey ahead. Folco and his flute! This adds to "The Long Road to Edoras". For once, Folco did not say the wrong thing and was perfect in expressing his gratitude. Simply lovely. Freddy's gift is certainly something that will appeal to him, especially now that he is discovering his bravery in expressing his intelligence. And "The Lay of Gil-Galad" - sort of a representation of the adventure they are going on, yes? The book will mean so much to Freddy.
It is a shame that Merry and Pippin cannot tell Frodo that they know he is giving all of them his most prized possessions. Poor Frodo is giving them his dearest things as a way to remember him by, as well as to cut more of his ties to the Shire. Fewer treasured possessions means that he has that much less to come back to and makes it easier for him to face the long road ahead. More importantly, by giving them tokens of himself, he is starting to say "goodbye" to his two dearest friends and cousins.
But Merry and Pippin know what he's doing and must be having a rather difficult time not telling Frodo that what he is doing is not necessary because they are going with him. It was no accident that Frodo chose to give them things that were not only his, but had been given to him by Bilbo. He is tying all of his fondest memories together. So Frodo and Merry each gave each other pipes on their birthdays, eh? And to give Pippin that dear scarf - I remember reading that story! Interesting that Frodo was able to notice the depth of Pippin's heartfelt emotional reaction. Of course, Pippin's reaction is not just to Frodo giving him the scarf, but it is the first time since learning of Frodo's plans that Pippin is able to hug his dear older cousin and express how much he means to him and how upset he is about what is to happen, even though Frodo chalks it all up to the receipt of the scarf. I'm sure Merry felt the same way, but expresses it in a Brandybuck manner rather than in a totally Took manner.
That feast they had - so much food! I know they are hobbits, but they must have had so many leftovers to take on the road. I remember Frodo's noodles with cheese! The cauliflower with milk and nutmeg sounds rather interesting. And the lentil soup ... well, now I'm just getting myself hungry and here it is almost dinnertime.
"Pippin just winked at him. “At least it’s cheered Frodo up,” he whispered. And of course, now Merry could not be annoyed with him at all."
Cheering themselves up with songs and stories from their past is a wonderful idea. Once again, it's wonderful to see Pippin allowing himself to be made fun of in order to try to cheer his cousin Frodo up. Pippin really is sweet and generous at heart must be a real joy to be around.
I remember that story about Merry! I see now where the plot bunny germinated from. It was very amusing, both in this short form and in its own separate story.
I really enjoyed the obvious delight that the cousins got in telling the stories about each other. We've all been there when the family stories are dragged out and one or another family member is embarassed, much to everyone's delight. And I'm glad Freddy got to make the toast to the byrdings. He's such a wonderful character!
Unfortunately, Gandalf's mysterious absence and the unknown dangers ahead casts a dark shadow over the joyful events. Even so, it was wonderful to see this last happy celebration at Bag End before our four hobbits' world is forever changed.
Author's reply
Wow!
I keep saying that about your reviews, but Wow!
You manage somehow to hit onto all of my own favorite high spots of the chapter.
Poor Frodo is giving them his dearest things as a way to remember him by, as well as to cut more of his ties to the Shire. Fewer treasured possessions means that he has that much less to come back to and makes it easier for him to face the long road ahead. More importantly, by giving them tokens of himself, he is starting to say "goodbye" to his two dearest friends and cousins.
But Merry and Pippin know what he's doing and must be having a rather difficult time not telling Frodo that what he is doing is not necessary because they are going with him. It was no accident that Frodo chose to give them things that were not only his, but had been given to him by Bilbo. He is tying all of his fondest memories together.
That is *exactly* the reaction I was going for, the fact that in spite of their being still at cross-purposes, since Frodo doesn't know what they know, the deep felt love is *still* there, still being expressed as well as they can.
And you have nailed Pippin's reaction perfectly, as well. *This* is the one time that he came even close to giving anything away, because he was just so overcome with emotion.
I sometimes wonder about my habit of giving myself plot-bunnies out of my own stories. But so often these little anecdotes just seem meant to find their way into stories of their own.
And of course Gandalf's absence is a shadow over it all, one put there by JRRT himself, and thus not to be ignored.
Gryffinjack
· 8 November 2005
· Chapter 18
I forgot to comment on Pippin's not leaving a note for his family and everyone joking about the way the Thain was apt to fly off the handle. Merry was right about it being good that Pippin did not leave a note. Paladin is a very good hobbit, but one who loves his son very much and would be none too pleased to see him going off with Frodo and Merry on a very dangerous quest from which he may never return. Pippin should know exactly how his father would react, since he is precisely the same way.
"“Ah. There you are! Fatty, Folco, we need you. Frodo, don’t you stir from this room, I’m shutting the door, and don’t you dare look out the window either.”
So Frodo sat alone listening to the voices in the hall. “Careful, Sam!” “Mr. Merry, hold your side up a little higher.” “Oi, watch the wall!” “Pippin, get the door, quick!” The sounds faded off in the direction of the dining room.
After a moment, Fatty stuck his head in the study. “Frodo, could you come to the dining room please?”"
Subtle. Very subtle.
"“Thank you very much, it’s a work of art.” Frodo hesitated. “I hate to mention this, lads, since you’ve gone to such effort--but, isn’t that rather an awful *lot* of cake?”
Merry, Fatty, Folco and Sam stared at the cake as though they had never thought of that before; but Pippin, who was notorious for his sweet tooth, grinned wolfishly. “It is, isn’t it?”"
I can just picture that grin on Pippin's face as he says that! Just what the Took needs, lots of sugar so he's bouncing off the walls.
I really loved the entire scene between Frodo and Sam. Favourite lines from that scene:
"Frodo tossed the garlic into the skillet, watching carefully; nothing worse than scorched garlic. After a moment, he splashed in a dollop of Old Winyards. After a second’s thought he splashed some of the wine into a cup for himself."
Ah, shades of "Frodo’s Cooking Lesson"! Stuffed mushrooms! To quote Bilbo: "“... you must always have a bit of the wine, when you make this dish, just to be sure that it is quite all right!”"
"And it *is* my party. I should have whom I like.” Frodo frowned. That last sentence had sounded pouty and childish. If he wasn’t careful, he’d lose this argument.
Sam shook his head as he lifted the chickens onto the fire. If he weren’t careful, he’d give in. He hated when Mr. Frodo used that sad, forlorn tone of voice."
Great juxtaposition! The two of them, thinking pretty much the same thing, but from opposite sides of the argument. The entire conversation between Sam and Frodo was quite enjoyable and showed what a close relationship it was, even though the really close bonds between them had yet to be formed.
Author's reply
I had a lot of fun writing the part about the cake. And again, you are seeing the first appearance of something that is part of my Pippin--his sweet tooth and his hyper-activity.
And the story "Frodo's Cooking Lesson" was another one that found its origins in this story, as I wanted to show the first time Frodo made these.
It is so neat, that you have read the other stories already. You are really the first reviewer who has that perspective of all the long history of the friendship of these four.
I'm so glad you liked Frodo's and Sam's argument. They are good friends and know one another well (though, as you said, not the bond they will later have) but Sam does not want to cross that invisible line called "proper", while Frodo is a stubborn Baggins. I thought this would be exactly the kind of argument they *would* have under the circumstances.
Gryffinjack
· 8 November 2005
· Chapter 17
Well, it seems Merry and Pippin are enjoying not having any secrets from each other again! Those two need each other. It kind of makes you wonder how they can live so far apart from each other and manage to see one another for such long periods of time.
"Fatty laughed. “Of course, that is my Folco we’re talking about.”"
I really enjoyed the endearing way Freddy spoke of Folco. You can't help liking Folco once you understand him.
"“Oi,” said Pippin indignantly. “I am sitting right here, and I am not just a piece of the furniture.”
“If you were,” grinned Merry “you would not be going, so there! Don’t interrupt.”"
LOL! I sure hope that if Pippin were a piece of furniture at Bag End that Merry would have tagged him to be sent along to Crickhollow or at least to a mathom room at Brandy Hall. Can you imagine Pippin if he were sold to the S.B.'s? Actually, I don't think the S.B.'s would stand a chance against him. lol!
"“Mr. Merry, I just don’t know. He *is* a wizard. But I think his main idea is to keep Mr. Frodo safe. If you can convince him you will be a help and not a nuisance, then I think he’ll probably say yes. Only thing is, I’m not sure Mr. Frodo will; he’s right fond of you two, and won’t take kindly to the idea of taking you into danger, begging your pardon, Mr. Pippin, but especially you.”"
Sam certainly knows Frodo and how he feels about things. He also has a pretty could handle on how Gandalf would feel.
"Sam nodded. He always knew Mr. Merry was level-headed and practical, a lot like himself, in fact."
It's good to see that Sam approves of his own personality traits! He's right, of course, Merry and Sam are both quite the level-headed and practical hobbits.
It's so weird to see them talking about events that take place in the book when we already know what will happen. If only the worst thing on the trip from Bag End to Crickhollow were trying not to let their plans slip to Frodo. It would be nice if they didn't encounter Black Riders on the way. But then again, that would change the story and we wouldn't really want that to happen.
You are very adept at mixing canon with your own story. Well done.
Author's reply
Yes, Merry and Pippin are very relieved and happy to have the secrecy over with, that they just have to get their high spirits out.
Freddy does know Folco; he probably knows Folco as well as Merry knows Pippin. He *especially* knows Folco can't keep a secret, LOL! So it's not hard for him to make use of him in this case.
I know it was something I had to constantly keep in mind: whatever *we* know about what's going to happen, the *characters* don't. It makes foreshadowing tricky, too easy to overdo it, yet you really can't avoid it altogether.
I know that I felt like I was tight-rope walking, writing these last few chapters that more and more had to blend with canon. It was really hard work.
Gryffinjack
· 8 November 2005
· Chapter 16
Rosie knows her Sam so well. She knows just how to get him to stop talking nonsense about her finding someone else. There's no way he could think of telling her to find someone else after that kiss.
Author's reply
She certainly does. *grin*
As I mentioned previously, I am very influenced in my Rosie by that scene that was in an Epilogue JRRT cut out--I *thought* it was in Unfinished Tales, but it turns out it's in Vol.4 of HoME, The End of the Third Age I don't know if you've seen it, it's lovely:
All the children were in bed. Lights were glimmering still in Hobbiton and in many houses dotted about the darkening countryside. Sam stood at the door and looked away eastward. He drew Mistress Rose to him, and set his arm about her. March the twenty-fifth!" he said. "This day seventeen years ago, Rose wife, I didn't think I should ever see thee again. But I kept on hoping."
"I never hoped at all, Sam," she said, "not until that very day; and then suddenly I did. About noon it was, and I felt so glad that I began singing. And mother said 'Quiet lass! There's ruffians about.' And I said 'Let them come! Their time will soon be over. Sam's coming back.' And you came.
"I did," said Sam. "To the most belovedest place in all the world. To my Rose and my garden."
They went in, and Sam shut the door. But even as he did so, he heard suddenly, deep and unstilled, the sigh and murmur of the Sea upon the shores of Middle-earth.
*sigh* And that's how it *should* be writte. We've a lot to live up to.
Gryffinjack
· 7 November 2005
· Chapter 15
Finally! I've been waiting so long to read this chapter!
"Which left Merry and Pippin alone at Bag End."
This alone tells you something big is about to occur.
"“Merry?”
“Yes, Pip.” He didn’t turn around, but kept on with putting apples in a bowl.
“The way I see it, you have three choices: you can try to leave me;” Merry went still. “you can try to stop me, which means you don’t go either;” Merry stiffened. “or you can take me with you and Frodo when you go.”
Merry turned around in shock. “How long have you known?” he whispered.
“Ever since you were down at the Smials in spring, when Alyssum was born. I eavesdropped on you and Fatty.”
Merry dropped into the nearest chair. His face was white as paper, except for two bright red spots on his cheeks, and his eyes blazed. “You wicked wretch!”"
You set scenes up so well! And you worry about the amount of details you have in your descriptions. It's perfect! This scene reads like I'm watching it happen live before my eyes. My favourite portion is when Pippin explains Merry's three choices to him. Poor Merry! No wonder he went still and then had to drop into a chair and turned white!
"Now Pippin was in shock. He had not expected Merry to be *angry* at him. Not annoyed, or irritated, or fussed or upset--this was real anger. Only three times before in his life had it happened: when he was eight and climbed so high in a tree he could not get down; when he was eleven, and got himself lost in the back tunnels at Brandy Hall for two days; and when he was twenty, and on a dare from a couple of his Banks cousins, had gotten so drunk he nearly died. This makes four, he thought miserably. “Merry?”"
“You knew! All those months I was worried sick about leaving you, you knew!” Merry grabbed Pippin hard by both wrists. “You don’t have a clue as to what danger is involved here!”"
Wow - for Merry to be *that* upset at Pippin... that's a major event and speaks volumes as to how upsetting this entire thing has been for Merry. Keeping his Pippin in the dark must have been pure torture for him.
"Pippin wrenched his arms away. Now his own anger kindled. “You always think you know what’s best for me! You always try to protect me! It never occurs to you that I might like to make my own decisions once in a while! I love Frodo, too! You’re not the only person in the world who cares about him! And you were planning on leaving me without so much as a goodbye!”
“Well, obviously that would have been useless, since you knew exactly what was going on. Was it funny watching me suffer? Did you get a laugh out of all my sleepless nights? How do you think I felt, knowing I might never see you again? How could you *do* that to me?”
This was too much for Pippin. He burst into tears and threw himself at his cousin’s feet. “I’m sorry, Merry! Please, please forgive me--I can’t bear it if you’re angry! But I couldn’t take the chance you’d leave me. Life wouldn’t be worth living in the Shire if you and Frodo both left me!” Curled up on the floor, he sobbed so hard that his stomach hurt.
After several moments he felt Merry’s familiar hand upon his head."
There is such strong emotion running throughout this scene that it is extremely palpable. I can feel it on my skin as I read it and even as I reread it for the umpteenth time. Both cousins really lost it. Actually, I think they both needed this type of catharsis with each other after all these months of deceiving one another.
"“I’m sorry, Pip. I should not have been so angry. But I’ve been so desperately worried about leaving you.” He reached down and raised his cousin up for a quick embrace.
“”Yes. Well.” Pippin got back in his chair, wiping his face with a sleeve. “You don’t have to any more because you’re not.”
“Can we discuss that?”
“Of course we can. But the answer won’t change. No different than if Frodo tries to tell you that *you’re* not coming.”"
Such perfect exchanges between them! They know each other so well.
"“You do know that this journey could be more dangerous than dragons? It‘s not the kind of adventure we used to talk about having.”
“I know about--the Ring--if that’s what you mean.” Pippin’s face was sober. “I know what it will mean if it stays; I know that danger will follow after it when it goes.”
“I see. Well, I guess you’re in, though you may wish yourself out before it’s over.” Actually, they might all of them wish themselves out, but it was no longer an option."
Quoted just because I like this passage so much. Okay, I really like the entire chapter and am quoting just about the whole thing back to you, but that's what happens when you write such brilliant chapters. And this one was one of the best!
Still, I'm glad you have them admitting to each other the seriousness of the situation and just how dangerous it actually is.
Last bit of quoting, because we can't forget Freddie:
"...the amount of flour in their hair and clothing bore mute witness to the fact that at some point they had gotten a bit carried away.
Fatty looked at Merry and Pippin, looking more carefree than he’d seen them in days. “Well, Pippin, you must have confessed.”
“I’m sorry Merry, but he already knew.”
Merry laughed. “Well, that’s that then. A Bolger trying to talk a Took out of something--rather like a rabbit trying to keep a bull from charging, I’d say.”"
I love how Freddie gets to be there to witness the flour all over Merry and Pippin and see how the tension has cleared. I'm sure all three of them feel much better now that they don't have to keep so many secrets from each other. I know that *I'm* happier now that all of that tension is gone. Another scene that makes me want to get out my sketchpad and draw it. Of course, I'm not drawing any of these scenes until after I've finished with reading all of your stories. Rather selfish, but I don't want to take the time out to draw the scenes when I can be reading them instead. You've really outdone yourself with this chapter.
With the internet not working at home, I have been reading the Trilogy again at night (when not watching the movie version). I've found that having read your stories through once and now reading them again has enhanced my reading and understanding of the Trilogy as I read through it a second time. I'm picking up on more of the relationships between the four hobbits and more about their various personalities as well as some of the events. I've also found the reverse to be true. As I read the Trilogy again, I find that it has been helping me to appreciate your stories more and the care and detail to canon that you give them. This really has been an invaluable way to read and devour both the Trilogy and your stories. I must say that I am enjoying one as much as the other.
Author's reply
Wow!
I just don't know what to say after a glowing review like this. It makes me feel very warm and happy, yet a little bit humble as well, to know you liked it that much.
I will say that this chapter was a pivotal one for me, as well as for Merry and Pippin. It set up for me so much of what their past and their future would be in *my* stories and in *my* Shire. For example, that little paragraph about the times Merry had been angry with Pippin--until that came into my head, I had not realized that about them, that Merry was almost never angry with Pippin,and that the only times he had been before, was because of Pippin endangering himself. This just told me volumes, and ended up being the inspiration for three seperate stories: "The Dare", "The Brandy Hall Incident" and "A First Time for Everything". The fact that as soon as the secrets were gone their connection with each other was renewed, symbolised by their baking together--this was the first time, really that they got flour all over each other, but now it became something that happened every time. And some of their little phrases and things, all came together in this chapter of this story, and has guided me throughout all the subsequent stories I wrote, including all the stories you have read up until now.
And I cannot tell you how flattered I am that you say my story has helped your understanding of canon and vice-versa. One of the main reasons I write these stories is to explore aspects of canon that we know little about.
Wow! Thanks!
Gryffinjack
· 7 November 2005
· Chapter 14
You mean you might write it? Thanks! Arrrooooo! I'll gladly let it wait in line behind the other bunnies. In the meantime, I'll go join Pippin in whooping and jumping on Gandalf's bed.
Yes, I expect that you are correct that Frodo would have left everything to Merry and Pippin at this point, although I doubt either of them would have wanted the money. It would be clear to him that Bilbo is not coming back and even if he did, he's too old to make it practical. Although Frodo and Sam had a close employment relationship and were friends besides, they didn't have that really close bond until after spending all of that time together on the Quest. And as the books say, Frodo's closest friends were Merry and Pippin. Why do the books refer to the relationship between the three of them as being "friends" rather than "cousins"? I never understood that, although in this instance of whom were his closest friends it makes sense.
I'd imagine that Pippin was pretty upset as well as angry to find the letter with Frodo's estate plans. First of all, Pippin doesn't want to even *think* of the possibility that Frodo will not come back or most likely die on this mission, even though Peregrin does have an idea of how probable that is. Secondly, it would frustrate him all the more in making realise how important it is that he go on the Quest so he can be there for Frodo and Merry. Thirdly, Pippin just plain would not want or care about the money - he wants his cousin! Really, he's the heir to the Thain and the Took. Money is one thing that Peregrin Took is never going to have to worry about in his life. Besides, I don't think money is all that important to him. What matters to Pippin is his family and friends and their health and happiness. I see Pippin taking that letter as a sign that Frodo expects to never return or else to die on the Quest. No wonder Pippin treated it like a venemous snake!
How I wish that Folco would think before he acted. Honestly, to sing that song about a miller with Ted Sandyman there? *sigh*
"Merry was making lists of the items that were to stay; Sam was outside, “putting the gardens to sleep”, something he’d not normally be doing for a few weeks yet; ... Frodo was jumpy, seemingly unable to settle to any one task, and starting at the least little sound."
I can easily imagine it being just so. Merry and Sam would try to keep themselves from thinking by turning to the practical things they knew needed to get done. Poor Frodo must be frightened out of his wits at this point, between all of the unrest in his life, the knowledge that someone is likely after him, and Gandalf never having arrived.
"“What *is* the matter with you, Frodo?” asked Pippin, finally in frustration. “You act like someone put a bug down your back.” He spoke from experience, having personally performed this experiment on his cousin several years ago."
Cute. Very cute line. And very Pippinish.
"Merry looked up sharply. “Gandalf’s coming back?” ... Now Merry was worried."
You're kidding, right? As if Merry weren't worried before! lol! No, it's perfectly reasonable that both Merry and Pippin would be worried that if Gandalf were there, he would not allow either of them to accompany Frodo and Sam on the Quest.
"Pippin was watching Merry’s face. He could tell what Merry was thinking. He wondered himself about it. He’d never known his wistful expression to cut any ice with Gandalf. The wizard had known several generations of Tookish green eyes."
LOL! Pippin knows all the angles, doesn't he? Gandalf must be a powerful wizard indeed not to fall for those Tookish green eyes, especially the way Pippin uses them. It reminds me of how we say that our dogs must spend all of their time at home practising their cute looks so we can't deny them.
"Fatty might be half Took himself, but he'd never seen any signs of it in his own temperament."
You know, I never realised that Freddy was half Took himself. I'll have to go home and check how he is related on the family trees in the book.
Excellent chapter, as always!
Author's reply
Well, it's an intriguing little bunny, but it will have to grow a bit. And I warn you--it might end up anecdotal material in a longer story, rather than stand-alone. But I'm feeding it and seeing what grows.
Hmm. Story-external, I think he probably wanted to emphasize the friendship, and *de-emphasize* the age gap. Otherwise, readers might be sidetracked with wondering *why* his best friends are 14 and 22 years younger than he, as might occur if he talked too much of their blood relationship and in what way they were cousins. Story-internal, could go something like this: JRRT was supposedly translating the Red Book from Westron. Perhaps there was no word that quite conveyed the meaning "very-close-friend-second-cousin-twice-removed-but-raised-together", for example. Having to content himself with a simpler word, he chose "friend" rather than "cousin" as showing the meaning better. (And I would bet in their own land, hobbits probably *did* have precise words that conveyed those exact meanings--a society as obsessed with genealogy as they were, it's a given.)
As to Frodo's estate, that was *exactly* it. He could not have left Bag End away from the Baggins family, I would bet. (which would be another reason he had to take Lotho's standing offer) But he could leave his money anywhere he wished. Sam was going with him, and of course, they are not so close yet as they will be--as you point out. Merry and Pippin are the two who are dearest to him. And of course, both of them would far rather have Frodo than his money. With a few exceptions, family is far more important to hobbits. And Pippin tends to be a bit in denial about terrible things happening to his loved ones (remember his reaction to the idea of being Thain?). It distressed him very badly.
It really was that song that more or less sealed Folco's eventual fate, for it made him an enemy of Sandyman.
I thought it might be something Pippin would say. And only he would come right out and *ask*, LOL!
Actually, Gandalf is probably not so hobbit-resistant as Pippin thinks, LOL! But he puts on a good front.
Freddy's mother was born Rosamunda Took. Her father was Bilbo's best friend in his youth, Hildibrand's son Sigismond. Ferdinand is her brother.
Thanks. These reviews are bringing it all back to me! *grin*
Author Reply: Actually that should have been "first-cousin-once-removed" *sigh* not paying enough attention...
Gryffinjack
· 7 November 2005
· Chapter 13
It's Meriadoc the Magnificent!
Bravo, Merry! I'm sure he got quite a lot of satisfaction out of helping Frodo by chasing off Lotho. Sure, Sam and Pippin are there to back him up, but it's so like Merry to actually take action to protect his Frodo.
Long quote:
"Frodo was sitting in the middle of the floor, his face as bleak as winter.
Pippin was frightened. He had never seen Frodo look like that before.
Merry had; but not since he was seven years old. Would what worked then work now?
“Pip, go on back out, and see if Sam can find something for you to do,” he whispered.
Pippin nodded, and went back the way he’d come.
When Merry was but a little lad in Buckland, he would sometimes find his Frodo looking just so, usually sitting by the Brandywine, staring at the river that had stolen his parents away. And he would comfort his cousin as best he could. He hoped it would still work now that they were grown.
He walked over and sat down next to Frodo, and put his arm around him, and whispered in his ear: “I love you, Frodo.”
And Frodo gave a shuddering breath, and returned his embrace, and ruffled his hair. Merry could feel the sorrow draining away from his cousin, who whispered back, as he always had, “I love you, too, my Merry. Thank you.”"
My heart goes out to all three of the cousins here. Poor Frodo is just so overwhelmed by all the turmoil in his life, which has just been turned upside down. Thank goodness Merry was there and recognised the signs and was able to give the only thing that might help his lost cousin.
Merry's heart must have skipped a few beats to see Frodo in such a manner after all these years. It must have brought back some awful memories and, knowing Merry, worried him to no end as well as made him sick and angry to see Frodo like that. I liked when Merry used to comfort Frodo in this manner when Merry was little and I really like that he does it now.
Pippin must have been terrified. He's never seen Frodo like that and is used to Frodo always being calm and in control of all situations. To see him scared and lost like that - it must have come as quite a shock to the young tweenager.
Did Merry come out afterward and talk to Pippin in private? I expect he probably did, knowing how frightened Pippin would be. Merry must have at least had to explain to Pippin that Frodo was all right now. But I see him as also explaining to his younger cousin how Frodo used to get in such a state when Merry was little and Frodo was trying to cope with the death of his parents. It would be one of the few moments when they were talking about Frodo during this summer that their relationship would not be restrained by the events surrounding the ring. Merry would be explaining honestly, knowing how frightened and sensitive his younger cousin was and how much he needed an explanation just then. Not because of his Tookish curiosity, but because of a love and deep concern for Frodo that is matched only by Merry's. Would you please, please, please write that scene? Hmmm... is that challenge still going on over on your LJ? The stump the author challenge? If so, that's the scene I'd want to see, although I guess I'd have to stump you first.
And what would Frodo's reaction be to Merry the next day? Would either Merry or Frodo make mention of it or would Merry pretend as if it hadn't happened, much to Frodo's relief. And Pippin? I expect he would take Merry's lead in how to treat Frodo on this occasion.
I want to know more!
- Gryffinjack, whose feeling quite Tookish right now
Author's reply
Oh this review is just music to my soul! I love that you quote my favorite part of it, even more than Merry chasing Lotho off, was Merry bringing Frodo back to himself.
I'm quite sure it *was* a shock to Pippin. He is so young that he's never really seen Frodo in that sort of grief--by the time he came along, his cousin was happy with Bilbo, and settled in at Bag End, and it was hard for him to even remember sometimes that Frodo had ever *had* parents, though I'm sure Merry had talked to him of it more than once, he'd never *seen* it.
You know, I'll have to think over your bunny, and let it percolate. You don't have to stump me, if you don't mind that it waits in line behind a few other bunnies...
Gryffinjack
· 7 November 2005
· Chapter 12
Poor Frodo - it's got to be so humiliating telling everyone that he has run out of money and watching everyone come up with their own ideas as to what's really going on.
"He jerked his hand away as if from hot coals, and fled out the back door, mouthing to Sam in the back garden “S-B’s”. He went for a long walk, leaving poor Sam to deal with them on his own, and did not return until the stars came out."
This is something we don't see much of - Frodo actually getting upset. It's good to see him acting like a normal human being, er ... hobbit, would in a situation like this. It's only natural that he would get upset about the hateful S.B.'s and have some sort of display of anger, as you have demonstrated in this line. He certainly did not flee from them in terror, but because he was frustrated and tired of dealing with them. And I love the way he just mouths "S-B's" to Sam and he stomps off.
You've brought up something not often considered here. If Sam did have a relationship with Rosie already, it must have been extremely difficult for him to go off with Mr. Frodo and leave her without a word for what might have been forever. He must have worried that she would find someone else and that it would serve him right if she did. Poor Sam would have been really hard on himself for causing her so much unhappiness when she found out he was gone without so much as a word. I really like your Rosie's confidence and understanding in Sam. She's just what he needs.
Author's reply
Yes, I thought it would be a bit funny if he realized that no one really believed him--remember the gossip at the Green Dragon? The legend of Bilbo's wealth was not so easily done away with. And Frodo was a terrible liar, LOL!
The S.-B.s *are* driving him to distraction, and he does not like being angry. But what really *did* frighten him was *not* them, but the realization that he was ready to put on the Ring, after all of Gandalf's dire warnings. He had to stomp off to collect himself.
In, I think, Unfinished Tales there is a scene with Rosie, where she says she never believed Sam was dead, that she always knew he would come back, and that she could feel it in the Spring that it was time for his return. If you've never read it, it's a very moving passage.
Gryffinjack
· 4 November 2005
· Chapter 11
Your chapters with letters in them are always so enjoyable to read.
I feel so bad for all of our hobbits - preparing themselves that these might be their last few days in the Shire ever. And for Merry and Pippin, there is the extra burden of knowing that if they do not come back, they will be leaving their fathers with no heir to the Master of Buckland and to the Thain and the Took.
It must have been such a terrible summer for all of them.
Author's reply
It must have been such a terrible summer for all of them.
It *had* to have been; all the tension of knowing how dire and dangerous the journey was likely to be (and yet no hint of the reality) I think the knowledge that they were helping to take the Evil *away* from their families and loved ones made the leaving just barely bearable.
Gryffinjack
· 4 November 2005
· Chapter 10
Bless Eglantine for taking such a liking to Folco! He's such a sweet but misunderstood character, he needs someone to take him under her wing.
I am so impressed with Freddy and the courage he is developing in this story. Being in the centre of this maelstrom is forcing him to become his own hobbit and stand up for what he believes in. It makes it much easier to believe that he would lead a rebellion later on.
Wouldn't Frodo have brought any of his parents' possessions with him when he came to live at Bag End? You know, I always figured that Frodo knew or had a premonition about something going wrong with Gandalf when he was taken prisoner by Saruman. I'm so glad you included this.
Author's reply
I think that motherly Eglantine would see Folco's sweet nature behind his appalling lack of social sense, and rather take him under her wing.
He does have a lot of courage. I've always thought that JRRT may originally envisioned a larger role for Fredegar Bolger than what appeared in the final version.
Frodo was only 21 (human equivalent of a 13 year old) when he came to live with Bilbo, and Bag End was fully furnished. I think he was quite likely to have some of his parents' smaller possessions--maybe jewelry of his mother's, his parents' portraits, maybe some of his father's books or pipes--but he'd have had no need of, or way to take care of any of their larger household furnishings.
And I *did* think, as do you, that he would have had *some* kind of premonition about Gandalf--at any rate, I thought that part of the story needed highlighting. And Frodo's dreams in general, were canon.
Gryffinjack
· 4 November 2005
· Chapter 9
This chapter was a joy to read. Watching the relationship between Pippin and Freddy change and the friendship between them forge - I love the way Freddy handles Pippin and is stronger than he normally would be. And I'm glad we get to see Pippin's sensitive side again in here.
There's such a sense of urgency to this entire story that it is quite compelling even though we know how things are going to turn out.
Author's reply
Pippin's been *around* Fatty most of his life, but he's always fallen for the older hobbit's amiable and slightly vapid alter-ego. (If you must know I was kind of thinking of such literary favorites of mine as Albert Campion and Lord Peter Wimsey, who hid their intelligence by acting like silly stereo-typical upper class twits.) But Pippin's seen behind the mask now, and knows he can count on Fatty in a way that he had not realized before that he could.
And Freddy knows that he can show his strength and intelligence, since Pippin has already penetrated his disguise.
I am glad that the urgency comes through. It is amazing to me when I read fanfics that I can get caught up in the plot, even though I *know* the way it turns out already.
Gryffinjack
· 4 November 2005
· Chapter 8
Poor Frodo must feel already like he does not belong and doesn't really have a home anymore. His whole life is on hold waiting for the uncertain path that lies ahead.
I'm not at all surprised that Peregrin's parents were upset with him for having been gone so long. For all that we consider him equal to the other hobbits, he is still just a tweenager and his parents are responsible for him and cannot help but worry about him and want his company.
It's great to see Pippin thinking things out and planning, more in the manner that Merry normally acts than acting in his normal manner of being impulsive. Yet, the intensity and determination is still there. In all three cousins and Sam, actually.
I cannot say enough about your Freddy and Folco, especially Freddy. You've made me wish we could see more of him and that he were more integral to Tolkien's LotR. He's quite a complex character that I want to see more of. I imagine his knowledge of Elvish to be more on a par with what Frodo's knowledge of the language is in the Trilogy. I wish he had more of a Tookish nature so he could have a desire to go on adventures.
Author's reply
Yes, this is a really bad time for Frodo. His life *is* on hold--it's too soon to leave, and now that he *must* he doesn't really want to. Yet to stay around and have to think about it all the time can't be doing him any good.
Pippin often makes long visits to Frodo and to Merry this time of year. But he usually clears it with his parents *first*. This time he went ahead and then told them afterwards. Not something the parents of an adolescent are going to be pleased with. Plus, he is getting a bit older, and probably has a few responsibilities that he is neglecting, although that is an area I've yet to explore.
This is a case where Pippin *has* to think ahead and plan. He is so afraid of being left behind he doesn't want to take any chances.
At this point, Freddy has only a mere smattering of Elvish, that he has learned from Frodo. But his interest is there. And he has steeped himself in Bilbo's Westron translations of Elvish tales.
The Tookish side of his nature has yet to awaken. He hasn't been in his "pinch" yet--but he will.
Gryffinjack
· 4 November 2005
· Chapter 7
I imagine Merry was too lost in his own glum thoughts to wonder why Pippin was drinking so heavily or was in such a bad mood, unless he chalked it all up to the tweenager being upset that Frodo was selling Bag End to the hated S.B.'s and moving farther away from Tookland (if I have my Shire geography right. Why don't they ever include Tookland on the maps of the Shire?)
It must have been quite difficult for Pippin and Merry not to say anything to each other when they are so used to sharing everything. The shame of it is that they are both more or less upset about the same thing and they cannot help each other out of their sour moods. Even so, I think it's still helpful just for them to be together during this awful time. They still are drawing on the strength of watching out for each other and just being there for each other. If ever there was a time when they needed each other's presence, it's now, when they are both so worried and concerned about Frodo.
Author's reply
Tookland is about 14 miles from Bag End cross-country, while Buckland is a little over 60 cross country.
I think Merry did put Pippin's bad mood down to the S.-B.s getting Bag End, and he probably thought Pippin thought the same about him, although of course, Pippin actually *knew*.
It's quite true. They need one another badly, and yet all these secrets are driving them apart when they most need to be together.
Gryffinjack
· 4 November 2005
· Chapter 6
It's still so painful to read about Frodo selling dear Bag End to the S.B.'s! It must have come as quite a crushing blow to each of them to learn of Frodo's plan and watch him sign that contract.
Leave it to Folco to be the only one to actually believe Frodo had run out of money and suggest a possible solution! He's so sweet and good natured. All of the others are too busy pretending they believe the story in hopes of not arousing suspicion that none of them even thought of making such a lame offer. Although Frodo hopes the rest of the hobbits are all buying his story, I wonder if he were at all surprised that none of them offerred to help, especially if even Folco had thought of that solution. Interesting how it is Lotho who unintentionally comes up with the way to get Frodo out of the jam Folco got him into - that an agreement is an agreement. It must be the only time in his life that Lotho was at all helpful.
This must have been so painful for all of them to see - the sale of Bag End would have made it all the more real that this *was* going to happen and that Frodo could not remain in the Shire and really was in serious danger.
Author's reply
Yes, breaking the news to his friends must have been really hard.
Poor Frodo, hardly anyone believed his excuses, except Folco, who was too clueless not too, and Lotho in whose best interest it was to believe it.
At this point, with him trying so hard to keep his secret, he is not "reading" his cousins as well as he normally does. Both he and Merry are putting their occasional suspicions down to their *own* nerves rather than to the idea that someone else has figured out the secret.
So when he finds himself wondering why Merry is not behaving normally, or when Merry finds himself wondering the same about Pippin, they both put it down to their own nerve-wracked state.
It was very painful. Since you've read all the "earlier" (in time) stories, you know how very filled with memories Bag End is for all of them.
Gryffinjack
· 4 November 2005
· Chapter 5
I wish he didn't have to sell Bag End, especially to those awful S.B.'s. If Merry came up behind Pippin, I wonder if Merry saw Pippin listening in on Sam and Frodo's conversation. Although I doubt he did, Merry would probably have said nothing, just hoped Pippin didn't pick up on what Frodo really meant, and dropped it. Then he'd tell Sam to be more careful about where he has his private conversations with Frodo.
"Gandalf watched his four small friends closely. Something had changed in their way of interacting with one another; it was subtle, but there."
Having Gandalf as the observer is brilliant. Of course the wizard would be pick up on the subtle difference in how the four hobbits were interacting.
"He was going to miss the Shire. But the day was fast approaching when all his work would either be done, or end in total failure. Either way, his time here would end."
You know, Gandalf and Frodo really are very much in the same sort of situation. Of course, Frodo is in more physical danger than Gandalf, but that wouldn't really matter to Gandalf as much since he is looking at the larger picture. Both must leave the Shire to play their part in this rather high stakes game which will decide all things. And both sense that their time is coming to an end. For I always sensed in Frodo that once he learnt of the Ring and his role with it, he never really thought he had a future after that, but more that his role in life had become this mission and that was it.
The addition of Freddy and Folco only tangles things up even more. Can you imagine how nervous Freddy must have been upon seeing all who were now gathered together in one hole? He and Pippin are the only ones who know exactly who knows what, and he will feel a bit guilty toward Merry about telling Pippin everything. Plus he has to worry about keeping Folco completely in the dark, since he knows better than everyone else just how badly Folco can say the wrong thing at absolutely the worst time. And Gandalf's presence? He's a wizard who has been among elves and surely must know everything. The tension in that smial must be so thick you could cut it with that knife Merry gave Sam for a birthday present!
Typical Gandalf to ponder and then watch and see how things play out. I'm glad he realised the value of Merry and Pippin and did not try to interfere.
This story is quite a cerebral exercise!
Author's reply
Part of the reason Frodo sold to the S.-B.s (aside from the time factor, and the fact that there was a standing offer) was the knowledge that with his beloved Bag End in their hands, he would have to go--he wouldn't be able to stay and watch what they would do to it. It was a way of burning his bridges.
A lot of people forget that "Gandalf was hiding up at Bag End", as the neighborhood gossip put it. He was staying there as Frodo's guest, and as an astute observer could not help but tumble to what was going on.
And you are very right about Gandalf and Frodo. I don't think Frodo ever expected to return to the Shire--though I believe he thought he'd live his life in exile, the way Bilbo did. But once he had committed to carrying the Ring to Mordor, I think he really counted himself as dead.
Yes, I am sure everything was very difficult for all of them during this time--secrets will do that.
And I do think that is how Gandalf would have played it--his role was to inspire others to play their parts, and he would recognize when that had happened.
I'm glad you put it that way. It most certainly was for me as I wrote it!
Gryffinjack
· 4 November 2005
· Chapter 4
Your style of writing is so marvelous. I really enjoy how you are able to work the songs into the stories so seamlessly, just as Tolkien did.
Once again, you've captured Sam's personality and manner of speech perfectly. The interaction between Sam and Merry is excellent, as usual.
Merry is in full management mode - trying to spy on Frodo, handle Sam, and protect Pippin by keeping him in the dark. That Brandybuck is lucky he didn't worry himself into an early grave.
The great thing about this story is the tangled web you weave. It's like watching a game of chess and trying to keep track of all of the pieces and the dangers and offensive moves to be made by each. The interrelationships between the various pieces is just grand!
Author's reply
I'm glad you like the way I handle songs. This was the first time I did so, and wasn't sure how it would work.
I was beginning to get a handle on Sam's and Merry's relationship here. This scene kind of gave me the first inklings that perhaps they had been childhood friends when Frodo first came to Bag End.
Yes, for one who is usually pretty cheerful, Merry does worry a lot about things he can't control. Fortunately, his good hobbit-sense and intelligence most of the time brings him up short, and helps him get a handle on things
At this point in the story it was beginning to get hard to keep track of who knew what, LOL!
Gryffinjack
· 3 November 2005
· Chapter 3
I couldn't help it - I had to read just one more chapter today. I've looked at the number of reviews for each chapter of this story. Are people daft? This story is definitely being added to my list of favourites written by you.
The development and fleshing out of Freddy's character is fascinating. He has that same interest in elves that Sam does and love of language as Frodo, yet he lacks the adventurous spirit of the others. However, his devotion and loyalty allow him to play an important part in the Quest nonetheless. Truly a fascinating hobbit.
Time to quote again:
'“Well, I have come to the conclusion that I have been misjudging you all these years, and that you are not in fact, ‘as dull as ditchwater’.”
Fatty moaned. “You were eavesdropping.”
“Yes, that I was,” said Pippin unapologetically. “I want to know exactly what’s up with Frodo and Merry. And don’t even *think* of not telling me.”
“Merry will have my guts for garters.”
“So will I. You know I’m going to find out sooner or later. Let’s make it sooner.” Though Pippin’s tone was light, the expression on his face was determined. “I’ll never let anyone know I heard it from you.”
“You’re not going to like this. It’s very serious indeed, maybe even more serious than Merry realizes.”
“I don’t have to like it, Fatty. I just have to know.”'
This is an exceptional exchange between the two of them. It establishes their new relationship in which Pippin understands and respects Freddy more. What's more, it is one of the best examples of the pluckiness and determination that Pippin exhibits in the Trilogy. He has a sharp wit about him and knows how to use it when necessary. Pippin is direct and forthright without a lick of playfulness when something's serious.
'Pippin sat in silence for so long that Fatty began to wonder if he had understood. ... This was now literally a matter of life and death. He had better begin thinking on the ways he could be of use to his cousins once they got started.'
Once again, examples of how Pippin can sit still and concentrate when something as important and serious as this. You really have the full measure of the character; so many people sell him short.
'It was just Mr. Merry’s mind seemed to run the same way Sam’s did--that sooner or later, Mr. Frodo would be off after old Mr. Bilbo, and those as didn’t wish to be left behind had best keep their eyes open.'
Sam's absolutely right about he and Merry having similar minds. They are both quite practical and realistic in looking at things. That's why they were the perfect ones to begin this conspiracy.
'So when Gandalf had come back, Sam had taken his clippers and stationed himself where he could hear what he and Mr. Frodo were talking of.'
Do you know what I like about this? It's a rare instance of similarity between Sam and Pippin. They both used the same method, eavesdropping under a window, to find out what was going on. Very interesting.
I really think this is one of the most important stories you have written in terms of explaining something missing in canon. It's quite enriching to the whole understanding of LotR.
Author's reply
I was still a very new writer when this story appeared, so it didn't get nearly as many reviews as later stories did. I was quite happy just to get one or two.
This is where I began to try and figure out *who* Fatty was, and *why* he was a good friend to Frodo, enough to be in on the Conspiracy, but still did not go on the journey. The answers my imagination began to supply took on a life of their own.
This is the first instance of a characteristic I have Pippin show sometimes: when he is playing about and bantering he will chatter on, but when something serious is up, he will think as long as he needs to about what he will say.
Yes, I first begin to draw parallels between Merry and Sam in this story. But as you observe there are some similarities between Sam and Pippin. I get to more of those later, though not in this story.
It's getting late, so I will probably reply to the rest of your reviews tomorrow! Thanks again. Seeing all of these was just lovely.
Gryffinjack
· 3 November 2005
· Chapter 2
You have such great pacing and wonderful sense of excitement going in this story!
'He did not know which frightened him more--going with Frodo into a danger far greater than he had ever anticipated, or getting left behind after all. Or leaving Pip behind.'
Yep, that's Merry - powerfully worried about Frodo, Pippin, and himself. At this point, though, he doesn't know the *real* danger. The only danger as far as Merry can tell is in Frodo not letting him go or in the unknown outside the Shire. It's not until later in the chapter that he finds out what the true danger is. At that point, there's no way that Merry would not go with Frodo.
'Two things were crystal clear to him: Frodo might as well have a target painted on his back and there was no way he could let Pippin come with them. Not into *this* kind of trouble.'
It's great to see Merry in his all-out worrying and protective mode. Are Brandybucks determined folk or does Merry get that from his rarely seen Took half?
'He had counted on Pippin’s help; now it, too, was lost. No matter how dangerous it was, Pip would never agree to staying behind if he knew they were going. And Pip was just barely twenty-eight. He wouldn’t even be an adult for five more years. To take him into this kind of trouble would be worse than cruel.'
I quite agree with you that Merry would never willingly lead Pippin into this sort of danger despite how much importance Pippin has in Merry's life. This shows just how much Merry not only enjoys but respects Pippin's intelligence and integrity, that he had been relying on him for his help. I'm glad you pointed out that for all that we see them as equals in the Trilogy, Pippin is only a tweenager of twenty-eight with five years of life experiences ahead of him before he becomes an adult. This is one of those missing moments that is vitally important to be seen. Otherwise, it looks like Merry and Sam were irresponsible for letting Pippin, a mere tweenager, be a part of and go on this dangerous Quest.
It's wonderful how you've included Freddy and Folco in here to such an extent, particularly Freddy. I am so enjoying the two of them in all of your stories.
This is a fine story and I am quite frustrated with BellSouth for saying that we will not have telephone/internet service restored at home until the 22nd of November. I want to read the rest of this story tonight! I don't want to read just a chapter or two at a time on a break at the office. *sigh* Why do you have to be such a brilliant writer?
Author's reply
Are Brandybucks determined folk or does Merry get that from his rarely seen Took half?
Well, I think that his particular *sort* of doggedness is a Brandybuck trait, but all three lines--Brandybuck, Took and Baggins each has its own particular brand of stubbornness.
This was the first story I wrote which was pre-Quest, and I had to deal with the age ratio. It seemed only logical to me that once Merry knew how serious the danger to Frodo was that he'd try his best to keep his younger cousin out of it if he could.
It was very clear from the text that Fredegar was in things up to his neck, and yet Folco was not. This is where I began to get my first inklings of their personalities.
Poor dear! I *do* understand how frustrating that is--I was cut off entirely for three weeks, and thought I'd go mad!
*blushes* Asking a question like that! Aren't you afraid you'll give me a swelled head?
Gryffinjack
· 3 November 2005
· Chapter 1
What a fantastic first chapter! It pulled me in right from the beginning and kept me laughing the whole way through.
"Pippin Took was angry, puzzled and curious. A dangerous combination. ... But not for nothing was he a Took. Nobody could beat the Tooks for deviousness or determination."
This chapter is proof positive that nobody is as Tookish as Pippin. He's the quintessential Took. Great characterisation of the side of his personality that is not all charming, happy, and sweet, although it does make me like him all the more.
'“Merry, you have to be joking!” Fatty Bolger’s voice sounded more alarmed than anything else. “Pippin doesn’t even like me. He thinks I’m dull as ditchwater without an original thought in my head. I’m the last person he’d let watch after him.”
From his vantage point behind a bush, Pippin’s eyebrows climbed. He’d no idea Fatty was intelligent enough to know what he thought of him. And so accurately, too. ...
Fatty’s voice again “What makes you think Frodo isn’t going to feel exactly the same about you as you do about Pip? He’s not going to want to take you for the very same reason.” Pippin’s opinion of Fatty’s intelligence went up another notch.'
You have such a way of putting things! I really was laughing as I read this. Freddy's great and I'm glad Pippin is finally learning how intelligent he is.
'“Pip will never forgive me, you know. I’m going to be breaking all kinds of promises.” Merry’s voice cracked, and Pippin could tell he was on the verge of tears. He’d feel sorry for him if he weren’t too busy being annoyed--and curious.'
Poor Merry's between a rock and a hardplace. I'd feel just like Pippin did.
'In fact, he looked as though he was staring holes into Frodo, and Pippin wondered that his older cousin had not noticed he was being watched with such intent regard.'
I love this line! I can picture Merry doing just that. As usual, your descriptions are so flawless that I could picture this entire scene.
'Pip’s young, but you know he’s no fool even if he is a Took.'
Freddy's got the right of it. Never underestimate the intelligence of a Took. Pippin may be impulsive and seem foolish and silly, but there's a lot going on inside that head behind those bright green eyes.
'“He didn’t seem interested in singing or even talking to me. He kept talking to himself, saying things like ‘I wonder if I’ll ever go this way again?’ and ‘Will I ever see this place anymore?’ You don’t suppose he’s sick, do you?” Pippin widened his eyes and feigned worry, and then turned his gaze on Frodo again.
“No, no, not at all” Merry assured him. “I’m sure he’s not sick.”
“Well, that’s good, he had me worried. You know how he is.” Of course both the younger hobbits were staring at Frodo again, and now he finally noticed. He turned his eyes on them from across the room and looked puzzled.
Pippin looked back at Merry. “Maybe we should try to wangle an invitation to Bag End when he leaves here.”'
This whole scene in the dining room proves that Pippin knows how to manouevre his Brandybuck cousin when he needs to.
This chapter was absolutely brilliant!
Author's reply
Wow! I came home to find my inbox just chuckful of your reviews! What a wonderful little bit of lagniappe that was!
This was only the third longer story I wrote (and I think only the fifth or sixth story, period.) I've been looking forward to seeing your perspective on it from reading things that chronologically took place earlier, but were actually written later. I am curious to see if you feel it still all hangs together in my little "universe" with all the other things that I have imagined since. This is the first story in which I really began to explore the tangled web of relationships between the four who went on the Quest.
I'm glad you are liking the more mischievous and determined aspects of Pippin's personality, and the way he is trying to manipulate Merry.
And I am so glad you appreciate the humor in this. I had a good deal of fun writing the cousins at cross-purposes with one another.
longcleeve
· 10 January 2005
· Chapter 999999: Author's Notes
another great story! i really enjoyed this one. so much detail it was wonderful.
well on to more of your fantastic stories :D
Ariel
· 18 October 2004
· Chapter 13
I haven't finished this yet, (but hopefully will this evening) but I did want to tell you how much I am enjoying this piece. It is well detailed and researched and you show the kind of attention to your canon details that I really like to see. A very entertaining story. I am glad I found it! These are the kinds of little gems I missed the first time they came around and am only now rediscovering as I work my way back through archives. Thank you for making the digging so rewarding!
Lotrgirl1415
· 12 September 2004
· Chapter 999999: Author's Notes
omg i feel so dumb!I saved the prologue to my computer and forgot to check up on the story!* feels ashamed*
i shall now save the rest of the story to my computer and read it!
just thought id let you in on some of my stupidity!lol
love,
Katie
Author's reply
Don't feel stupid. I don't even know how to save the stories to the computer.
trishette
· 11 July 2004
· Chapter 17
Fatty smirked. “I just told Folco we had to plan a birthday surprise for Frodo, and that I wanted him to get Frodo out of the way for a while today. When he lets it slip, then of course, Frodo will be in no hurry to come back, lest he spoil the surprise.”
Merry snorted. “ ‘*When* he lets it slip’?”
Wow, Folco seriously reminds me of a friend of mine called Jessica, both because she has a mouth big enough to engulf the United States- and because she's actually let slip about birthday surprises. For my friend trisha's Sweet 16, there was to be a limo, said her dad, that Trish didn't know about. So of course when Trisha comes down, Jessica enthusiastically burst out "oh my gosh, this is gonna be my first time in a limo, Trish.. your party's gonna be so awesome!" when a confused trisha inquired, "What limo?" Jessica turned bright red and said "Oh.... crap." AND my friend Jessica has the proclivity to insult others in jokes. Oh, but For Folco git me very hard when I think of the parallels between Folco and Jessica! Poor Folco *tears* I don't know what I'd do if I lost Jessica, especially to manslaughter.
Author's reply
Yes, well, I guess all of us have known someone like that a time or two, someone who never *means* any harm, and is really very sweet, but they just have no sense whatsoever about what they say--it seems like it comes straight out of their mouths without ever passing through their brain. Then they are sorry afterwards, but they usually don't quite understand what they did wrong.
I had a couple of people I know in mind, too, when I thought of Folco's personality.
And of course there is no way jerks like Lotho or Sandyman are going to understand. Naturally, since they are so mean, they think that Folco is being insulting on purpose, because that's what *they'd* do.
Hai Took
· 10 June 2004
· Chapter 9999: Epilogue
The Conspiracy Unmasked is one of my favorite chapters in the whole series! I have always wondered how the conspiracy came to be formed in the first place, and you did a wonderful job of making it's beginning fit right in! There are so many things I liked about it and I am going to mention as many as I can remember!
Pippin was pretty brigh to figure out that Merry was keeping something from him. I had never thought that Pippin wouldn't have been part of the conspiracy since the beginning but as he isn't even of age when they set out it makes perfect since! The way he decided Fatty wasn't as dim witted as he thought was great, I'm glad Pip revealed to Fatty that he knew! I do feel bad that Fatty was kind of middle man to both Merry and Pippin, but not revealing Pip's plans to Merry was great!
Gandalf gussing that Merry and Pippin knew about Frodo leaving was wonderful! That he doesn't intervene is typical Gandalf. Of course he is the one to stand up for their coming in Rivendell, a little glimpse of the future?
I like the depth you went into with Frodo selling Bag End. The way they all hated the S.B's getting it was perfect, that no one believed Frodo had run out of money, I liked this about lying, "Merry did not much like lying and tended to avoid it, though he would when he had to, and wasn’t too bad at it, unlike Frodo who hated lying, and was terrible at it. Of course, they were both unlike Pippin, who was a cheerful liar, very good at it, indeed, and never minded when he got caught out." That seems to catch all of the hobbits well, besides Sam. Folco offering to lend Frodo the money so that he didn't have to sell was so sweet!
Fatty trying to dissuade Pippin from going yet knowing it was a pretty hopeless endeavor. Poor Pip, he is after all still a child by hobbit standards and you write him so perfectly! Trying to be an adult, yet still some of his ways being very child like i. e. crying because Merry was mad at him when he revealed that he knew about Frodo leaving.
I loved Merry standing up to Lotho and not allowing him to disturb Frodo further. Merry is always such a wonder, I always liked that after Bilbo left the way Merry stayed around and tried to keep the S.B's away from Frodo then as well.
Frodo leaving everything to Merry and Pippin was a bit of a shock, obviously to Pippin who found it! That Frodo was would be making those kinds of arragements is quite sad, at least we know that he come back, if not to stay for a little while!
The Cousins jumping on the Big Person bed! That shows such great hobbit character! It was perfect!
It was quite touching the way Sam tried to tell Rosie not to wait for him. She was so adamant about her waiting no matter what. Very sweet on the Sam and Rosie relationship. That she would be willing to wait for him no matter what speaks beautifully about their love!
All the gifts that Frodo gave to his young friends was wonderful! Merry saying he thought Frodo made lovely noise on a flute was funny! I like that you included the scarf for Pippin and Pippin's reaction to it, very Pippin-ish. Telling the fauntling stories, the few you wrote were wonderful and fit perfectly! It really is too bad that no one could tell any about Frodo!
Pippin's "gift" to the new owners of Bag End was splendid! I wish we could see them receiving it!
Poor Fatty crossing the River! That is terrible that he would have such a hard time with it! I hope Merry doesn't have to face his height fears if it is like Fatty! I feel terrible that Esmerelda thinks Frodo is coming to stay and is so happy with the kind of arrangement. She is no fool though, knowing Frodo would not willingly leave Bag End!
Gildor sending elves to inform others about the traveling hobbits was a wonderful idea! I always like that they meet up with elves and Gildor doing a bit more to help was great!
I always like the Maggots and you wrote them wonderfully! I'm glad that they were able to get back to Crickhollow with out further incident and that Frodo did not dispute the younger cousins coming with him!
All in all it was great! I love the way you write everyone but Pippin in particular is perfect! I'm glad that you used Fatty and Falco, I was always curious about their friendship with Frodo as they are mentioned specifically! Thank you for such a great story!
Author's reply
Thank you so much for your beautiful and detailed review. I'm so glad the story made such a good impression on you. I had a lot of fun writing it, and if I had not done "Conspiracy" I would not be doing "Reckoning". Funny how that goes, isn't it?
I really appreciate that you take the time to review.
Auntiemeesh
· 18 April 2004
· Chapter 9999: Epilogue
I love the way you ended this, with Lotho sending a letter off to Mr. White. I thought you captured the character of each of the hobbits very well, with Frodo sad and anxious, Sam determined not to get into any more trouble from Gandalf, Merry being very organized and observant, and Pippin being young and very Tookish but showing that he had much more in him than others suspected. I wanted more when I came to the end.
Thank you for writing this lovely story,
Auntiemeesh
Author's reply
I'm glad that you enjoyed it--of course if you want more of what happened after the conspiracy, just crack open FOTR 8-). I was surprised at how hard it was for me to leave off, but I knew I had come to the point of letting Tolkien take over. I originally did not have the epilogue, but somehow, I couldn't leave it alone. I do hope to come back to these characters, though.
Thank you for the nice review.