Lyta Padfoot
· 29 August 2004
· Chapter 50: Truth Be Told
Poor Pippin, it must have been awful to tell the hobbits they'd have to leave the farm. The speculations by the Tooks were amusing. I'm curious to see what happens when Pippin reveals the truth. Did Lalia simply move the gold? Or was it gone before her? Was there more than one storage place? I'm very curious as to how the Tookland's finances are built back up in so short a time.
Author's reply
I can only imagine how awful that would be. The worst thing I've had to tell someone was telling our little ones that we couldn't keep their beloved dog any longer.
It'll be just a bit longer before the mystery is cleared up. Pippin may not be good at digging up gold, but he certainly builds a well-deserved reputation for attracting gold the way a magnet attracts iron filings...
Beruthiel
· 28 August 2004
· Chapter 49: Tea and Talk and Mouths to Feed
Oh dear. Poor, poor Pippin. And I thought *I* had bad luck.
One consolation for the Tooks: anyone who can take all this without collapsing into screaming insanity *has* to be a tough, gutsy leader (if the Tooks would only acknowledge that fact).
Looking forward to the convocation with much interest.
PS I'll hold you to what you said about reconsidering the next few chapters!
Author's reply
Got your wish. Did a bit more writing and incorporated Pippin's breaking his word to the Took-Grubbs family into the current chapter. Quite angsty, as it ought.
Convocation comes next.
Thanks for commenting!
Bodkin
· 28 August 2004
· Chapter 49: Tea and Talk and Mouths to Feed
Lalia probably hid the gold. Get Pearl and Isum onto it.
Trouble for Pippin never comes 'in single spies, but in batallions.' And he's cut off from Merry too, which must be a problem for him.
Hobbits really can be a bit stodgy. That pony business - screams of a fix to prevent Pippin and Merry from winning the races.
Author's reply
Still got a few tricks up my sleeve. Hang in there.
Y'know, I figured the hobbits *are* insular so this plot point would work. And a good thing, too, for it's the only way I could think of to "save" Starfire, who does not appear in races in already-written stories set after this one.
Thanks for commenting!
Connie B.
· 28 August 2004
· Chapter 49: Tea and Talk and Mouths to Feed
Uh, those people, the ones who changed the rules, are idiots. They're going to accomplish nothing by holding back progress. I'm not saying that all progress is good, but they have to see that there's a larger world out there, and they either live with it, or wither awaay and die.
I know Ferdi is trying to empress on people that Pippin is the Thain, and deserving of respect so that there is less question of his authority at the convocation, but it still hard to watch him revert back to that cold, formal address he used when they were first reunited.
Poor Pippin. The world just seems to be colapsing around his ears. I don't see how he's managing to hold it together. I think I'd have run screaming into the wilds by this point.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
Well, we know that hobbits did diminish in size and influence, so perhaps you see an inkling of that in the attitude over "outlandish entries". How I would love to have it the other way, with the Shire prospering into our time! But that would be AU, and I have trouble writing AU unless it's satire.
You're exactly right about Ferdi, and the entire escort is going to be acting the same way, along with Reginard and Everard and anyone else they can rope in.
Pip is made of stern stuff, as you know. He'll make it through the rest of the plot twists with his usual flair.
Hai Took
· 28 August 2004
· Chapter 49: Tea and Talk and Mouths to Feed
I liked all of Pippin's treasures from when he was younger, the stones and such he had collected. Very much like Pippin and I liked that most of them had some sort of lesson or memory to them!
It seemes things are certainly going from bad to worse! That Starfire may not race in any of the races is a terrible blow to Ferdi but at least Pippin was able to make some amends for it!
I am anxious about how Pippin admitting to the lack of gold is going to go about! I guess I can only hope that they Tooks are understanding to some degree, although it will be a blow to all of them! Looking forward to more, thank you!
Author's reply
Well, unless a chapter of the draft splits itself into two parts in the final writing, you ought to see the convocation of Tooks in the next chapter (or at least the one after that).
Thanks for commenting!
Beruthiel
· 27 August 2004
· Chapter 48: When Worse Comes to Worst
Wow. Quite different from what I expected when I saw the chapter title.
Pippin actually came up with a rational plan! My respect for him has increased a great deal. 'Tis a pity being honest never occurs to modern politicians.
I'm hoping at least *some* Tooks will think him worth listening to after his confession of bankruptcy, but not holding my breath. I remember from "FireStorm" that by the time of the wildfire, people still listen to Reg much more than Pip, and only after they realise Pip's changes (black powder, etc) allowed Tuckborough to be saved from burning down do they give him a second look.
Not to mention Ferdi, who will watch Pip break his word to the Took-Grubbs, but won't notice how much it hurts him to do so. I am recalling his saying in "Runaway" that he doubts Pip understands how important an oath is. He is a fellow who desperately needs a 12-step program for excessive stubbornness. It still amazes me that he spends every day with Pip for six or seven years, and after all that time, still refuses to see that Pip takes the Thainship seriously.
*mutters a few choice words about stubborn Tooks*
Interesting birthday presents. Will we see any stories involving Pippin's acquisition of his pebble collection and/or the box he keeps it in? (Hint, hint, Musie dear!)
Author's reply
My, you tempt me. The outline and rough draft are not half so dramatic as the possibilities you envision... I'm half inclined to re-write just to include all the angsty stuff, but no. The story really is nearly over, just a very few chapters left and not much room to wrap things up.
Tell you what, if you find the last few chapters (and ending) unsatisfying, let me know and I'll submit it to the Muse for consideration.
Thanks for commenting!
Author Reply: p.s. at least one of the pebbles will be acquired in "Thain". Perhaps two. Still working on the outline for that story. (Re-working, rather)
Connie B.
· 27 August 2004
· Chapter 48: When Worse Comes to Worst
Oh dear. I have to say, Pippin has a fortitude that few could equal. He's facing one of the hardest moments of his life, and he's meeting it head-on. I like it that he's decided up front that he's not going to keep the lie going. We know the Tooks don't throw him out, but he doesn't know it won't happen. Deep down I think there's a tiny part of him that wishes they would. I just want to give him a hug and a shoulder to cry on.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
He's got courage, and a cousin's example to follow--do what you can with what you have.
I do agree that deep down he'd like to be deposed, but until and unless it happens he'll shoulder the burden and trudge along, finding joy wherever he can in the journey.
Thanks for reviewing!
FantasyFan
· 27 August 2004
· Chapter 48: When Worse Comes to Worst
Wow, we're spoiled with your quick updates of this story. It's exciting to click on the site, with more than half a hope that there will be a new chapter. You're definitely spoiling us.
Pippin's presents remind me of the gifts given on the naming day. Life is full of treasures indeed, and I'm glad Pippin is fixed on that idea even if he can't have the gold he needs, and even if he can't keep his word to the Took-Grubbs. The hobbits of Tookland have yet to learn how much Pip's oath means to him, but we're never in doubt. Now we just need to wait for that clever brain to come up with some way to make it all come out right - though I admit I don't have the first idea what he's going to do.
As always, looking forward to future spoiling!
FF
Author's reply
Well, happy to oblige. I went through a long drought just now, but the writing is going again and we shall enjoy it while it lasts. The reviews do help, quite a bit, to grease the wheels.
Well, you've already seen the plan he's laid out. Absolute honesty and openness; now if he can just pull it off without a no-confidence vote on the part of the Tooks!
Thanks for commenting.
Chibi-Kaz
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 47: From Bad to Worse
Oh no!
Gee, I'm all for deus ex machina, you know. A sudden windfall? Maybe, a chest from Faramir containing Pippin's back-pay as a Guard of the Citadel? Valuable sellable presents from the King and Queen for his confirmation as Thain? Something!
nailbiting,
Chibi-Kaz
Author's reply
LOL, you ain't seen nothing yet.
Thanks for commenting!
Hai Took
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 47: From Bad to Worse
Oh dear! I thought that everything was squared away and then all of this came up! Poor Sam! I'm sure the first thing he wanted to do as Mayor was tell one of his best friends that the races didn't really qualify! Pippin's not selfish and Merry knows there is something else that he was tyring to do with the winnings other than see Tookland win! Gracious they seem to be in trouble again! I hope that Pippin's next plan won't be too risky! Looking forward to more!
Author's reply
Yes, poor Sam. Bet he regretted winning the election!
Pippin's plan is risky, but I think it's really the only logical course.
Beruthiel
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 47: From Bad to Worse
Ahh! You're not going to leave us hanging here, are you?!
Poor Pippin. Exactly how much trouble is he getting himself into now? All this can't be good for his health. Oh well, at least he doesn't have to sell Socks.
What crazy scheme has he come up with? You must update soon!
Author's reply
What crazy scheme? Actually, something a lot saner than Paladin came up with before him...
Connie B.
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 47: From Bad to Worse
My first words upon seeing the title of this chapter, "OH NO!"
Poor Pippin. I hope he can get himself out of this one. It's so maddening when you're trying to do the right thing and you're blocked at every turn. I know he comes through this, but it doesn't make it any easier to witness. I'm dying to know what crazy idea he's come up with.
I can't tell you how excited I was to get up this morining and see a chapter posted and then check this afternoon and see a second. Two in a day, Yay!
Thanks.
Connie.
Author's reply
Well, I got an interesting idea for a medium-length story about Bandobras the Bullroarer yesterday and so I'm working hard to finish "StarFire" so that I can get to work on "Hole in One" (working title, terrible pun, may not survive the final draft).
I don't like working on more than two multi-chapter stories at a time, especially something that takes as much research as "Thain" seems to be requiring at the moment. So I'll try to get "StarFire" out of the way. There's not much left on the outline, anyhow.
Thanks so much for commenting! It's nice to know someone's actually reading and not just clicking into a chapter and clicking right out again. ((hugs)) for your generous encouragement.
Connie B.
· 26 August 2004
· Chapter 46: Unexpected Turn
Interesting. Socks won after all. So, do they get to keep the winnings then?
And what is this shock going to do to Pippin. I don't think he's up to handling too many surprises right now.
Oh, please send up another chapter. The twiests and turns are great.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
You don't know how glad I am for your comment; you saved me from some serious re-writing. I had forgotten, while writing this chapter, how Socks could come in third and yet not be the winning pony... but you reminded me. Whew! I was getting ready to rewrite the race chapter and make Socks finish further back and make the black pony third even though the outline said otherwise... and what a hash that would have made of this part of the plot!
As you know, of course they don't get to keep the winnings. But your question jogged my brain and reminded me why. Whew! And thanks!
p.s. you're right, Pippin's not up to handling too many surprises, but he's tougher than most people think, in terms of sheer grit and determination.
Hai Took
· 23 August 2004
· Chapter 45: And... They're... Off!
What fun! you write the races so wonderfully that I can see it in my mind! Yay, for Ferdi! I'm glad there was no mishap in this race! It looks like everything was won that needed to be! Looking forward to more! Thank you!
So Ferdinand has a flash of foresight. Interesting. I don't believe this was ever mentioned in a previous story. Is it new, or has he been having these flashes for years and a certain Muse never bothered to tell us?
Glad to see Socks still has it (how long does he live, anyway?). With Pippin's ponies placing first and third, I think the farm family's problems are over. Now Pip just has to restock the Thain's treasure hoard somehow. However does he manage that, since he doesn't become known for hoarding gold?
Author's reply
LOL. Well, these flashes must be few and far between or the Tooks would be able to make a living as fortune tellers. But Frodo had a couple, and he had some Took in him, and the Tooks are said (absurd though it might be) to have some fairy blood... There must be something to them, to have such a rumour extant. (is that a word? it was in my head, but it looks... odd.)
Socks is getting older. It really wasn't fair of Pippin to put him in a race against the best in the Shire, but then he may well be in denial about how quickly the years are going, and how time is beginning to overtake his favourite. Socks' racing career will end in less than a year, but I imagine he lives a few years longer, happily siring foals. By the time of "Where the Merlin Cries" he's long gone, of course, for Pippin "misses him still" in that story.
Connie B.
· 23 August 2004
· Chapter 45: And... They're... Off!
Yay! The race is run. Poor Ferdinand. I thought for a moment he'd had a heart attack. At least he doesn't actually see the race where Ferdi is hurt.
I'm curious to see how this one wraps up.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
Thank you for your patience!
There is still a twist or two to navigate in the plot, but we are nearly to the end...
(I keep hearing the voice of the Wicked Witch of the West in my head: These things must be done delicately, my dear, delicately... Hmph, wonder if that's really the Muse talking?)
Hai Took
· 15 August 2004
· Chapter 44: A Slight Difference of Opinion
I liked the chapter with Pippin being confirmed as the Thain! Diamond and Pippin discussing running away from it to Gondor or any other place. Pippin trying to remember all the names of the people he had to meet and the Merry and Estella coming through and Pippin wondering how many hobbits lived in the Shire! Pippin's speech was perfect! The whole chapter made me laugh!
Hilly talking Pippin out of riding! I'm surprised he was able to dot aht but glad he was none the less! If Pip was already wheezing it wouldn't have been good. Saying that his lovely balm was Diamond's new perfume would have been great! Looking forward to seeing what happense with the races! Thank you!
Author's reply
Yep, wouldn't have been too good for Pippin to stop breathing altogether in the middle of a race. (Might've been exciting, but wouldn't have furthered the plot any!)
Thanks, glad it made you laugh.
Grey Wonderer
· 14 August 2004
· Chapter 44: A Slight Difference of Opinion
This site hates me I fear. That should say that it would be like Merry to have his riders hold back a little if he knows how Pippin needs the win. LOL I must learn to work this site properly.
Author's reply
Oh, I know. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to edit posts? I use the wrong word (sometimes WILDLY wrong) or misspell something or leave a word out entirely and don't even notice it until I've hit the button.
Thanks for commenting.
I bet Merry doesn't know, but I think Estella suspects something, from the way she's eyeing Pippin in the current chapter.
Grey Wonderer
· 14 August 2004
· Chapter 44: A Slight Difference of Opinion
I wonder if Merry knows how much Pippin needs to win? Would be like Merry to have his riders I'm looking forward to more.
Grey Wonderer
· 14 August 2004
· Chapter 43: Confirming the Thain
Thain Pippin of the Shire! I loved Merry and Estella joking in the line with Pippin about the brandy. A great chapter! If I had been pippin I think I would have taken my chances in Gondor with Arwen since Diamond seemed willing to go. LOL
Connie B.
· 14 August 2004
· Chapter 44: A Slight Difference of Opinion
Argh! I thought we'd get the race this time. Oh well, next chapter.
I'm a little surprised that Pippin relented and agreed not to ride. I have the feeling he's feeling worse than he's letting on. He didn't even argue about the tea. Hm.
Two chapters in one day. I am empressed.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
Well, there you go, a race chapter. Am not getting much time for writing lately, what with gearing up for the start of the school year. Guess that's okay, not getting many reviews, either (perhaps for the same reason).
Yes, you're right, Pippin isn't feeling all that well, plus he's woozy from the sleeping draught (even if he only drank half). He knows better than to ride under such conditions. Racing is a dangerous business!
I certainly appreciate your taking the time to comment!
Connie B.
· 14 August 2004
· Chapter 43: Confirming the Thain
Oh, poor Pippin. Part of me wishes he didn't have to take the position, but I know he's the best person for it. I only wish he had had an easier time of it those first few years. There are moments in some of the other stories that just break my heart. Thankfully he and his family come through it all the better in the end.
That scene with Merry and Estella was wonderful. They have such wit, and work as well together as Merry and Pippin did in their younger days. Merry couldn't have found a better wife.
Now, we are going to get to that race in the next chapter. Right?
Just being a pest, ya know. It's a thankless job, but someone's got to do it. Especially since the resident pest just became the Thain.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Hai Took
· 4 August 2004
· Chapter 42: Casting His Vote
How wonderful to see a bit of Freddy! I like the way you desribed the fairs and wish that I could attend a hobbit fair! I had a good laugh over Ferdinand trying to vote! Really how unpractical that he would have to resort to dropping his coins from his mouth just to vote! But it made a good story ;) Looking forward to more! Can't wait to find out about the races!
Author's reply
Somehow it seemed to me that Freddy would be there, to put in his vote for Samwise. It was nice to catch a glimpse of him. The races ought to be coming up next, unless the next chapter runs too long and splits itself into two pieces. We'll see! Thanks for commenting.
Lyta Padfoot
· 4 August 2004
· Chapter 42: Casting His Vote
Good for old Ferdinand that he still found a way to vote. The voting system seems sensible and explains why no taxes in the Shire, a bit slanted toward the well-to-do but thats pretty par for the course in most societies.
Author's reply
Yes, a bit slanted towards the well-to-do; they certainly didn't have to sacrifice much to vote, compared to a common hobbit who was spending several days' wages... but at least the "common hobbits" got to vote. That's something, I guess. And everyone in the Shire benefitted from the Shirriffs, though not everyone got the benefit of the Message service, most likely. I wonder if letter writers paid postage, or if it was the recipient who paid, or if the "poll tax" made the postal service free for any who could write and send a letter? JRRT never said, so far as I know. Perhaps it's in his letters somewhere.
eiluj
· 4 August 2004
· Chapter 42: Casting His Vote
Re. the strange economy of Middle-earth, I've often boggled at those tents Bilbo rented ... the idea that there were so many upper-class hobbits renting tents that the tent-renters could make a living doing so ... well, you've found another occasion on which to use all those fancy rentable pavilions and tents....
Author's reply
I always wondered how the Shirriffs and Messengers got paid. Somehow taxes didn't seem like they'd fit an idyllic place like the Shire. I guess you might call the vote a sort of poll tax, but really, if they can charge 2 silver pennies per hobbit and manage to pay for the Shirriffs and postal system for the next seven years, that's great! (not that I've gone into it in any depth, just did a few quick calculations and hoped that it was not too outlandish)