A Matter of Time by shirebound
Celeste Lucretia Black · 12 May 2021 · Chapter 4: Epilogue
This is my second favourite now
Author's reply
Thank you, Celeste! Your comments are reminding me of how joyous it was to write all these stories, and the warm feeling of adding just a little something to the Professor's amazing Tale.
Celeste Lucretia Black · 12 May 2021 · Chapter 4: Epilogue
*cries*
Author's reply
*holds you gently* How I love our hobbits. And Bless the Professor for gifting them to us!
Celeste Lucretia Black · 12 May 2021 · Chapter 3: Answers
I can relate to Pip on so many levels...
Author's reply
I'm glad. :)
PSW · 21 November 2015 · Chapter 4: Epilogue
Good old Merry! :-) And good old Gandalf too. Yes indeed, look what they did... :-)
Author's reply
I'm glad you liked the ending to this fic. :)
PSW · 20 November 2015 · Chapter 3: Answers
Ahh...very interesting. A focal point. Well, why not? Pippin does end up affecting a lot of different things throughout the journey and beyond...
Author's reply
He really does! A lot of turning points hinge on something Pippin does or says.
aprilkat · 24 February 2007 · Chapter 4: Epilogue
I love this gentle story about why Elrond finally decided to let Pippin go on the Quest. It makes so much more sense than other reasons I've read, and is true to everyone in the story. Wouldn't Pippin have been amazed to know?
Author's reply
Thank you, Aprilkat. This was one of my earliest attempts at 'gap filling', and showing how other races (such as someone like Elrond) may have put a great deal of time and thought into decisions that, on the surface, may not have been logical to others.
songspinner · 20 April 2005 · Chapter 4: Epilogue
How beautifully written! It is, as far as I am concerned, a perfect explanation for Elrond's decision. I've always loved Pippin and Merry in the book precisely because I can see how they are catalysts, especially Pip. Being in the right place at the right time to make a difference can be just as important as deliberately setting out to be heroic. Very much in character, I thought, and the sense of humor you gave Elrond as well as the hobbits fit nicely. -Laura
Author's reply
Thank you so much. It was fascinating to explore one possible theory of what may have gone into Elrond's decision to let Pippin accompany the Fellowship. But poor Merry, having to keep this secret from his Pip! :D
Pipwise Brandygin · 29 January 2005 · Chapter 4: Epilogue
How absolutely wonderful... *sigh* What a fascinating and lovely explanation for Pippin being allowed on the quest! I love the idea that Elrond sensed his importance beforehand, and Pippin's mishaps are not only recognised as being significant in hindsight. (Merry turning away from Pippin after the palantir, for example, takes on a whole new light!) I love so many things about this story - the reasons Elrond gave for choosing Legolas and Gimli were perfect, and I adored Merry's conversation with Elrond when he asks if Pippin is too young or not brave enough to come. So sweet, and I love the brave, hobbity way he assures Elrond that they would stand fast in the face of danger. I also love that Elrond sees so much and recognises what each hobbit has to contribute. The epilogue, too, is gorgeous - I love reflective moments by the White Tree, and this is a beautiful one. Merry's pride and joy that Pippin is "still Pippin" is so lovely, and a comfort, I imagine, for keeping such a big secret from him, as it would surely take away some of that innocence. Thank you! :)
Author's reply
Oh Pip, thank you so much! This was one of my first stories, and it taught me so much -- about writing, and about how other races might view the hobbits.
PIppinfan1988 · 8 February 2004 · Chapter 4: Epilogue
This was very good. What else can I say? I'm a big Pippin fan, but I'm also a big Merry fan, too. Lovely tale. Thank you for sharing your wonderful imagination. Pippinfan
Author's reply
Thank *you*. This was one of my very early stories, and I loved working out all the details.
PIppinfan1988 · 8 February 2004 · Chapter 3: Answers
"Elrond laughed softly. “I have known only five hobbits in my lifetime, Meriadoc, and all of you seem quite extra-ordinary in your own way. Perhaps there is something deep within each of you, needing only time or circumstance to reveal it. I believe this quest will awaken Peregrin’s true nature, and possibly it will do the same for all of you.” - shirebound That was too cool! Pearl told me about this chapter while we were on Loonmoot in early January, but I don't think she could remember who wrote it. I am so glad you did! You are such a fantastic writer, and I love how you write the hobbits! It is Sunday morning, and I'm off to get *my* coffee before heading onto the next chapters. Do ya think Merry would've made me a cup while he was getting his? Go figure. Pippinfan
Author's reply
Loonmoot!? That sounds like fun! I'm glad you love how I write the hobbits, because I can't seem to write about anything else!
PIppinfan1988 · 8 February 2004 · Chapter 1: Prologue
Very interesting; the different reasoning of Elrond choosing companions for the Ring Bearer. And I loved your description of Legolas' youthful outlook on life. That it had not yet been jaded. And that darn Merry! Doesn't he do anything other than read maps and drink coffee? The little slacker! :-P Actually, this is what helps him and Pippin get their bearings as they approach Fangorn Forest. Good old Merry! Pippinfan
Author's reply
Glad you liked it! I enjoyed exploring possibly reasons for Elrond choosing each member of the Fellowship. (And that brief mention in Fangorn Forest (from FOTR), that Merry had not wasted his time in Rivendell, is what really brought him to life for me.)
Gershwhen · 25 January 2004 · Chapter 4: Epilogue
"Look what we did" indeed!! A nice gentle story. I did so enjoy the interaction of Elrond and Merry. I don't think we get to see enough of Elrond's gentleness with the hobbits and this tale helped that greatly. Thank you for sharing!
Author's reply
Thank you, Gershwhen! I like thinking about conversations between 'unlikely' folks (such as Merry and Elrond). This was one of my very first stories, and I'm so glad you enjoyed it.
Orangeblossom Took · 20 August 2003 · Chapter 4: Epilogue
A wonderful tale, Shire, and an excellent tribute to my dear Pippin.