Lords and Rangers by jenolas

Reviews (34)

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lindahoyland · 8 October 2005 · Chapter 7: Many Surprises

I imagine that the ring may be to blame for the sudden tension between Boromir and Aragorn as soon as they are near it again ? A tragedy these two will never have the friendship that might have been. Very well written.

Author's reply

Thank you. I suppose you might be right about the ring, but it is also possbile that Boromir's sense of responsibility came to the fore and he reprimanded the two as he would his own soldiers. Maybe his words were inappropriate, but he certainly spoke them for the right reason, at least in his mind.

Mum's the Word · 8 October 2005 · Chapter 7: Many Surprises

I've been enjoying this story, Jenolas, though I've neglected to review until now. Boromir's thoughtfulness in providing the pastries for the Hobbits was very well done -- and very well received. Your inventive idea of the grass-blade sign left for Aragorn was a wonderful detail. Well done! I especially liked this word picture: "Twilight was rapidly falling, the loss of light turning the warm green, brown and golden hues of the forest to cold shades of grey, and allowing the evening mist to dampen the air." Very good description, and a very effective mood change. I also liked this description: "a hint of elvish pride in his sweet voice." I smiled at the whole interchange, and I appreciated your reminder of the sweetness of Elves' voices. Sad as it was to see the easily bruised egos of the Men, you brought their conflict to a very nice resolution. Well done. Blessings and brownies, Mum

Author's reply

Thank you for reading and taking the time to post such enlightening comments. It is always good to learn exactly what appeals (or not) to readers, and especially so when a particular quote touches them in some way. Whilst this story is in no way an in depth study, I think it achoeved my aim of provoking readers into seeing that perhaps Boromir was not such a villain, He was a noble man, a lord of Gondor and had a loving heart for his family and a soft spot for the hobbits. Be well, jenolas

Bodkin · 8 October 2005 · Chapter 7: Many Surprises

Very subtle, those signs left by elves. And Legolas's arrival might well be irritating. Two's company, after all. And when Legolas is being best friends with Aragorn, Boromir is shoved out in the cold. But at least the hobbits love him. (They haven't quite got past the posturing stage, have they?)

Author's reply

I think Boromir is drawn to th enly other Man on the quest, he is still a little uncertain of his place among the others. Hence the wariness when around them, except the hobbits of course who are nothing but openly affectionate and genuine in their words and deeds. I think Boromir finds their honesty both admirable and refreshing. It is always easier to deal with those who let you know exactly where you stand.

Dreamflower · 8 October 2005 · Chapter 7: Many Surprises

A very fitting end to their quest for provisions. I liked the encounter with Legolas, and the very faint and subtle hint of movie-verse there (I like such reminders far better than stories that are mostly or wholly set in the film version) and also Boromir's reaction. The scene of reunion was lovely, and I'm so very glad that the hobbits' pastries weren't broken! The apology was also low-key, yet heartfelt. Gandalf's decision to keep the finding of Orc sign a secret from the others also kept this small side-venture squarely in canon. A very nice story indeed!

Author's reply

Thanks. When writing, I make an effort to keep 'outside' the scenes as presented on film and in the books. The main story is there for all to read or watch, and I see no reason to include it in great detail, after all it is the little asides that are possible that interest me as a story teller.

Daffy Maiden · 7 October 2005 · Chapter 6: A Sad Truth

This is sad! Now I need to read your new Boromance to feel better. Of course I was going to read it in any case, seeing as I'm the one who badgered you to write one. ;)

Author's reply

I hope you enjoy "Hearts and Flowers".

Daffy Maiden · 7 October 2005 · Chapter 5: Revelations

I have returned! :D Oooh, now those words have even more meaning...

Author's reply

Welcome back!

Bodkin · 4 October 2005 · Chapter 6: A Sad Truth

He had to be dead. And they avoided saying 'eaten' quite carefully. I liked the connection Boromir spotted between Faramir and Aragorn - they are a pair who are quite well suited to each other, I think. And Boromir is lovely here - taking treats back to the hobbits. Aragorn is right, though - they hobbits won't care two hoots about their condition. They will fall on them so fast they won't even notice. Two anonymous rangers. One in his underclothes. What a vision.

Author's reply

Well, both were mindful of the other man's relative innocence in regards to orcs and such, and probably saw no need to offer graphic detail. Yes, the hobbits, and no doubt Gimli and Gandalf as well, will certainly enjoy every last crumb. :) What a vision indeed! Especially if you close your eyes and add the absent Faramir to the mix!

Dreamflower · 3 October 2005 · Chapter 6: A Sad Truth

Aw, it's sad that the sister's husband was killed by the Orcs, yet it's more realistic than having him found alive and well by our two. A shame, but of course it is just the beginning of the more serious and increasing incursions of Orcs that will grow ever worse until Frodo achieves the Quest. I really love the way you show Boromir and Aragorn growing in friendship, yet acknowledging that their differences have not completely gone away.

Author's reply

Yes, exactly my thinking in regards to the unfortunate hunter's fate. I think that had Boromir survived, he and Aragorn would have become good friends, the seeds of which were probably sown during their journey to Amon Hen. Both are strong leaders of men and would not have had their opinions easily swayed by the other, and they may have argued more often than not ( and likely shared an ale or two afterwards to 'calm the waters', so to speak!), but they certainly would have respected each other's differences.

lindahoyland · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 6: A Sad Truth

This is so sad that the father has been killed and a foreshadowing of Boromir's fate.I like the growing friendship between the two men.

Author's reply

Not all endings are happy, unfortunately but I like to think that the two had a few lighter moments amidst the darkness of the times.

Radbooks · 2 October 2005 · Chapter 6: A Sad Truth

I have really enjoyed this story and the interaction between Aragorn and Boromir. It is very well done. While Aragorn is my favorite character and there are many wonderful stories about him, I am so glad to see a well-written Boromir story. I have always liked him and enjoy reading a story that shows the friendship between the two of them.

Author's reply

Thank you for your kind words. I find it both interesting and challenging to explore characters and relationships that are less commonly written about. The development of a friensdship based on the men Aragorn and Boromir are rather than on their roles in life being one of them.

Bodkin · 21 September 2005 · Chapter 5: Revelations

I like the cunning byplay about the ugly insect. What a pair of actors! Good that the farmers turned up - even if they weren't really needed they added to the background of the tale. Boromir is showing himself in a great light - and both he and Aragorn are determined to help wherever they can. Looking forward to more.

Author's reply

More sooner rather than later, I hope! In case you haven't noticed, I am rather fond of nice!Boromir and like to present this 'lighter' sid eof bth him and Aragorn. Had the events of the book in regards to Boromir ended differently, I an sure the two would have become great friends.

Dreamflower · 20 September 2005 · Chapter 5: Revelations

A very nice chapter. I am so glad that they were spared any confrontation with Bad Guys. It really isn't necessary to an exciting story sometimes, and I like this chance that Aragorn and Boromir are having to get better acquainted. As to names, Aragorn has plenty of them--surely he could have loaned *one* of them to Boromir for the occasion, LOL! Of course, Boromir might certainly have raised an eyebrow if Aragorn called him "Thorongil". *giggle*

Author's reply

I am not one for writing fight scenes unless the plot absolutely requires it, and there was no real need here, although a little suspense does not go astray! Yes, I guess Boromir could have had a large choice of names, and perhaps the budding friendship would have taken a step or two back, especially if the mention of Thorongil piqued Boromir's curiousity. Awkward questions might have been raised as well as Boromir's eyebrow!

lindahoyland · 19 September 2005 · Chapter 5: Revelations

A most enjoyable chapter

Author's reply

Thank you.

Daffy Maiden · 23 August 2005 · Chapter 4: A Tavern Tale

Hee, I love stories like that! XD

Author's reply

Glad to hear it!

Daffy Maiden · 23 August 2005 · Chapter 3: A Boy and His Boat

The hands of a king, you know. ^_^ Market day, huh? What will they find there?

Author's reply

Who knows, but it might be more than they bargained for!

Bodkin · 23 August 2005 · Chapter 4: A Tavern Tale

I hope those whose eyes light up at the thought of other people's silver discover that they have bitten off far more than they can chew. And that the pies make it back to the poor hungry hobbits. (So sweet of Boromir to want to take them a treat.)

Author's reply

Boromir's fondness for Faramir makes me believe he has a soft, gentle heart even if he is 'rough' on the outside. The hobbits hope the pies make it back too! (They don't know about them, but I am sure they cam almost 'smell' them, hehe).

pebbles66 · 21 August 2005 · Chapter 1: Hungry Hobbits

Nice chapter. I always thought that the Fellowship must have had to stop somewhere for supplies. How much dried meat, dried vegetables and fruit, and stale bread could they have eaten? I wonder why Tolkien never mentioned it in the book. I can't imagine that they could have carried enough food to last them from December to the end of March - even though they were separated for some of that time, and received extra supplies in Lorien. I look forward to reading the rest of your story, and then I may reread Budgielover's "Some Nameless Place" also.

Dot · 21 August 2005 · Chapter 4: A Tavern Tale

It’s lucky that rangers seem to have a good reputation. I love the way Aragorn handled the gatekeeper with such ease. I don’t blame people for looking at them. I’d be looking too… Mmmm… Ok, you absolutely made me melt when Boromir decides that he wants to bring a treat to the hobbits. What a guy! “Boromir’s coin pouch was somewhat lighter, but he still had plenty of silver, a fact not lost on eyes that were far too observant.” Eek. That’s ominous. I suppose it wouldn’t have dawned on him to be more wary when everyone else is purchasing too. Well, I thoroughly enjoyed the tale of Faramir and the maid! Poor Faramir! Of course, as the older brother, it’s Boromir’s duty to remind him of it now and then ;-) Although, I must say that Boromir’s protectiveness of his brother really comes through here and I find that so touching. “Aragorn felt uneasy, as if his senses were warning him they were not alone on the road.” Umm… I don’t have a good feeling about this. Whatever else happens, I’ll cry if the pies are lost! Or squished.

Author's reply

Yes, I would be drooling...er....I mean... looking as well, might even develop a sudden interest in baking! Mischief is afoot it seems, but our men can handle whatever comes, of that there is no doubt. The pies are very popular 'characters' and Boromir will do his best to see they reach their destination in one piece.

Dot · 21 August 2005 · Chapter 3: A Boy and His Boat

I love Boromir glaring at the rock! LOL. And, as always, I really enjoy the glimpse of Boromir’s relationship with his brother. You make me smile with the teasing and loving bond between them. I particularly liked the exchange between Aragorn and Boromir when Aragorn acknowledges his honourable nature and in turn Boromir reminds Aragorn of not only his destiny but of his own loyalty to him. A wonderful scene. It seems these two may have stumbled into a mystery of some sort. I’m intrigued by the frightened but courageous boy. I couldn’t help but grin at the different roles the two take as well – Aragorn is the soothing healer whereas Boromir reprimands him for doing something foolish as he probably would his younger brother. At least they’ve found a place to stay. And how handy, it’s market day. Hmm. Something tells me this may not turn out to be very straightforward…;-)

Author's reply

Hi Dot Sorry for the delay in reply, but RL intervenes again! Anyhow, glad you liked this little glimpse of Boromir and Faramir. I am certain he has many tales to tell, with fond regard, no doubt! The young boy probably remonds them both of the youths they once were, and of the differences in their upbringing to some extent. Yes, the 'rangers' are off to do some trading, should be intereting!

Dot · 21 August 2005 · Chapter 2: Dress (non)Sense

They’re like two little boys playing dress-up! At least they seem to be having fun. I couldn’t help smiling at their slight giddiness. And I’m really tickled by the thought of Boromir wandering around in his undertunic and an old blanket *snort* I’d say Gandalf knew exactly what was amusing them and is probably rolling his eyes when they can’t see him! I imagine he enjoys seeing anyone of them enjoy themselves when they get a chance. A mug of tea and a small piece of cheese? Ok, they really need to get some supplies soon! Ummm… it seems that there’s a slight obstacle. Oh well. These two are recourceful, right?! Dying to see where you’re going with this :-)

Dreamflower · 21 August 2005 · Chapter 4: A Tavern Tale

Uh-oh, sounds like they are going to be accosted by footpads...I am sure that the two of them can handle the situation--but the hobbits' pies had better not get smashed! *Grin* I do love this time between them; they can relax, and talk of things soldier to soldier that they have to be a bit constrained about when they are with the Fellowship. I really do like this story a good deal!

Author's reply

Thanks for your continued interest, especially since this is taking rather longer to finish than I would like. Yes, I agree that Aragorn and Boromir probably enjoyed the opportunity for plain speaking, especially in regards to matters between soldiers, as uyou point out. Being able to speak freely certainly is a step towards improving their relationship.

Dreamflower · 14 August 2005 · Chapter 3: A Boy and His Boat

It's nice to see a new chapter of this. I love the way Aragorn and Boromir are interacting in this. They have clearly become friends, even though there are a few unresolved issues. And how like them to help the boy. I hope the rest of the Fellowship is not going to be too worried.

Author's reply

Despite the issues between them that set them on edge, there was no reason for friendship not to develop, at least the way I see it. They are similar in many ways, and their mutual concern for the boy... and their companions can not help but draw them closer. jenolas

Bodkin · 14 August 2005 · Chapter 3: A Boy and His Boat

Nice Boromir / Aragorn. I like seeing Boromir as a valuable member of the team - and the silver in his purse must be useful at this point. And they've acquired a young fan. But I suspect there could be trouble ahead!

Author's reply

Yes, Boromir was so much more than simply a victim of the influence of the ring and I am certain the relationship between he and Aragorn was not always strained. Two handsome strangers ...one small village...trouble? Maybe? jenolas

Daffy Maiden · 7 August 2005 · Chapter 2: Dress (non)Sense

Me again... OMG that smile! ;)

Author's reply

Just makes you melt, does it not? (jenolas nods knowingly). Me too!

Daffy Maiden · 7 August 2005 · Chapter 2: Dress (non)Sense

Oopsees, I forgot to review this one when I read it! This is exciting -- I've never read a story "live" before! Keep it coming!! ((((((huggles))))))

Author's reply

I'm working on it, but Aragorn and Boromir are being far too amusing at present and I am finding it difficult to concentrate!