Wow...So many layers to this chapter Larner. I don't know quite where to begin. I loved the reference to Elrond as, "The father of my heart...". There's a lovely term I read in a book a long time ago that called people who are family, but not blood family, as "Relatives By Love Alone". That's perfect for the relationship between Aragorn and Elrond.
The seeds of resistance towards Mordor are being sowed and at the very highest levels. I'm sure this will be touched on again by the time this story's finished. Call it a hunch. :o) And the spies are being identified as well. Always good to know who is in your own house, but not an ally.
Interesting twist on Aragorn going to try and heal the Farozi. From the way you wrote this, it sounds like this is the first time he will do something so complicated on his own. Scary for him, but a neccesary step in his evolution as a healer.
As always, looking forward eagerly to the next chapter!!
(and for once...no spelling mistakes. Amazing what happens when you read an update in the afternoon, instead of at night when the painkillers I need to help to sleep are kicking in... ;o) )
Author's reply
I think Aragorn would think of Elrond in that way, and am glad you like it. Yes, this is part of Aragorn's maturation as a healer, learning to trust his own judgment and skill. And to find out the spies and learn how to use them instead of being used by them is always important.
So glad you are enjoying it. Sorry to hear of the pain. The heat is doing me in, and as I'm in the Pacific Northwest, that's not even all that hot!
Tigger
· 29 July 2005
· Chapter 4: Destruction of a Ring
I hope we'll learn how Aragorn dealt w/the destruction of the Lesser Ring. If not, that's oaky, but I'd be interested in seeing how you'd write it Larner. :o) He was very, very smart in making sure Ma'annubi didn't see and then, realizing rightly, there might have been a peephole in the way he took off The Ring of Barahir. Then again, Ma'annubi was also looking out for his Master. Not that it was right, but security is security. He's just very, very lucky Hardorn was nowhere in sight.
Really liked the observations of a Southern had of Aragorn. That he was w/out a doubt a Northerner by his skin and how fair it was compared to theirs. That was really interesting to read and fascinating as well.
I'm well and truly hooked Larner. Can't wait for the next installment. :o)
Author's reply
Security is always a two-edged sword. The more closely we try to enforce it, the more it bites us; and the same when we begin to get too lax.
And Aragorn is apparently aware of how security is handled in places like this, and would be circumspect with that which he doesn't wish seen.
However, some cultural values might lead to misinterpretation of the Ring of Barahir....
Dreamflower
· 29 July 2005
· Chapter 4: Destruction of a Ring
Poor Aragorn, no privacy for his bath, LOL. I'm glad he realized the motives the servant had, and knew not to take offense. I love all the little clues to his true identity that were there, to be interpreted only by a person who already had the key of knowledge, and a mystery to anyone else. I am anxious to see what the questioning of Virubat reveals.
Author's reply
Not only does he realize his things have been gone through, but he has also let it be known he is aware, and in watching Ma'annubi's reactions he could tell if the motivation for doing so was honorable or not; he can then feel more comfortable with the idea there may be a spy hole somewhere.
And the idea of Aragorn in the bath is always a pleasant one for those of us enamored of him to consider, isn't it? (SMILE!)
utfrog98
· 29 July 2005
· Chapter 3: Emissary’s Capture
Any time I see Larner as the author, I know I will be a very happy reader. Enjoying this one as much as ever.
Author's reply
I am flattered. Thank you for the compliment!
Kitty
· 29 July 2005
· Chapter 3: Emissary’s Capture
Somehow reminds Virubat me so much of Varondil and Landrion. They ask all the same questions about Thorongil and Aragorn, and all of them are spys. It seems his fate reminds of Landrion, too, at least in the way how he was captured in his own house. I truly enjoy Aragorn as ranger! Can't wait to know more!
Author's reply
By the time Aragorn and Hardorn captured Landrion they'd had decades to perfect the manner of breaking into supposedly secure homes and accomplishing the extractions. This would be an earlier practice at the technique, I think. And the spying would be much to the same effect and about much the same individuals. Sauron would want reassurance this new commander in Arnor isn't the heir of Elendil and Isildur, after all, while those in the North would want to hide the information as long as possible. And spies and agents employed by Mordor would be quite similar, probably, as well.
Anyway, glad you are enjoying it.
Kitty
· 29 July 2005
· Chapter 2: The Wanderer
Oh yes, I remember Sohrabi and Aragorns mention of earlier encounters with peoples who carried lesser rings and had wondered one or two times what happened then. I love the way how you takes these little bits from earlier stories and turns them into a new story! And I love Aragorn as ranger, without all the worries of a kingdom to rule. Sohrabi seems a nice and honest guy - I am glad Aragorn was able to save him. Hopefully will come some good from this, as in the last fic with Sestor and the others. You said there will be two journeys and I have some ideas what could happen. And it was interesting how Aragorn was able to answer Sohrabis questions without lying and still not giving away too much.
It was so typical of Denethor to search Thorongil's warehouse again and again. I am glad he wasn't able to find anything. But then, I doubt he was ever able to outwit our dear Ranger. Aragorn's idea of what to do with the camel was quite amusing. I would've loved to see Denethor's face about such a gift! But then, the poor camel doesn't deserve such a fate - Aragorn surely is able to find a better place for she.
Oh, and I love your naming of the Gods. I have read a lot about Ancient Egypt myself and of course recognised the names. It is much more fascinating and easier to remember when there are names one knows and can connect with a purpose.
Author's reply
If Tolkien saw Gondor and Arnor and points between as a proto-Europe, surely I can see Harad as a proto-Egypt, can't I? And, yes, I adapted from Egyptian religious and mythological beliefs for the gods of Harad, but tried to link them also to the Valar.
You will find Aragorn has taken good thought to the disposition of his camel--and his horse as well. Unlike Viggo, he doesn't have facilities to carry the horse home with him.
harrowcat
· 29 July 2005
· Chapter 3: Emissary’s Capture
Great stuff Larner. Aragorn puts me in mind of the Scarlet Pimpernal; 'They seek him here, they seek him there....' Am off to a Summer School so will have to see who's internet connection I can steal! Just don't think I've lost interest. Expect a bumper review when I get caught up!
Author's reply
Yes, wary honorable folk such as the Scarlet Pimpernel and Aragorn would be very similar in seeking to hide their trails and yet to leave the enemy openly confounded.
Hope you enjoy your summer school experience. Am looking forward to hearing from you once you're settled.
aragorn_reader
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 3: Emissary’s Capture
Oh, my, bearding the enemy in his den, indeed!
Most exciting!
Author's reply
Of course, Amy--what better place to take someone unawares than where he feels safest? Tends also to put greater concern into the hearts of Virubat's folk, not being certain how he was taken or by whom from in the heart of what he would see as his own fortress.
Glad you approve.
Dreamflower
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 3: Emissary’s Capture
*chuckle* I love Aragorn's very direct and no-nonsense way of dealing with these problems. I have a feeling that Virubat is going to be very sorry he took up with the Dark Lord's emissaries.
One of the things I love about your Aragorn is how he is both practical and idealistic at the same time. He can be cagy and canny in how he answers questions, but he never out-and-out *lies*, though you might have to look closely to find the grains of truth. He is ruthless enough when it is necessary, but he is never cruel or unjust. And he never disguises his true beliefs when questioned, no matter how odd they might sound to one unfamiliar with the tales of the West, but most of the time he couches them in terms his listener can at least begin to comprehend. You do so very well in depicting him, Larner!
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so glad you like Aragorn as I depict him, Dreamflower. He's wonderful because he is capable of being all those things, and that's certainly how I always envisioned him from Tolkien's descriptions.
Thanks so much for your wonderful appreciation.
Tigger
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 3: Emissary’s Capture
Ooooh...So, the servants of the Enemy are trying to find Captain Thorongil, Gilrean and any descendants of the leaders of the Northern Dunedain. Nice tension maker there. ;o) I really liked how Aragonr answered his new friend's questions on who he was and where he came from. Gave just enough information to show he meant no harm to the Haradrim noble, but not enough to give him away. Also a nice touch to show the respect given to Aragorn after questioned about who led his caravan and was the Captain of the Guards of it. Showed that Aragorn knew what he was doing.
Now how will our favourite Ranger get that chest open, because Virubat's not going to do it willingly. Looking forward to the next twists and turns in this intruging story.
Author's reply
It will take a bit of time to get the chest open, because Aragorn's skills will be needed in another capacity soon. But he does tend to be very diplomatic in his communications, and appears capable of listening to those who advise him as Meriti and his son did on his plan to appear as a merchant. That kind of wisdom, to trust in other experts instead of always overriding them to prove oneself, would be, I think, part of Aragorn's wisdom and the difference between himself and other leaders we've seen in the world, historical and fictional.
We've hinted that there would have been a search for Aragorn's survival before by both Mordor and Denethor; it seemed only right to echo it here as well.
Am so glad you find so much to appreciate in this chapter.
Elemmíre
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 2: The Wanderer
Wheeeee!
>>He wasn’t positive what he’d do with the camel. He had enough experience with the beasts by this time to realize this camel was of superb breeding, and knew also that if he hadn’t accepted the animal he would have insulted the family past bearing. He contemplated sending it to Minas Tirith with a ribbon about its neck, and a label marked To Lord Denethor, with the compliments of Captain Thorongil.
Oh goodness. That would be funny. I'm really enjoying this story!
:),
Elemmíre
Author's reply
It would have caused Denethor a good deal of consternation, wouldn't it? Glad you enjoy the story so far. Hope it continues to please.
Tigger
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 2: The Wanderer
Wow...What a beginning. We know Aragorn travelled in the Southlands after leaving Gondor and Thorongil behind, but that's all we know. I've always wondered about those years and journeys. This is also a nice filler to a detail in The King's Commission you touched on. Where Aragorn saw one of the assasins had possession of one of the Lesser Rings and Aragorn said he had seen and destroyed one before. I'm glad you're going back to that tantalizing tidbit and fleshing it out.
Oh and leaving Denethor nothing but Lembas bread in the warehouse..ROTFLOL!! That was *perfect*!! I could just see the expression on Denethor's face too. Aragorn would think that the perfect joke on Denthor as well. That was brilliant!!
Looking forward to seeing where this goes.
Author's reply
Yes, the Mallorn leaves and hints of lembas must have confused Denethor thoroughly, I would think.
This nuzgul has shown such an affinity for sand, you know--that it would have led to Harad seemed fated.
And glad you are glad to see the question of the lesser ring dealt with further.
harrowcat
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 2: The Wanderer
I nearly got to the end of the chapter and thought 'oh just a few chapter story then'! but then got to the line 'The one with him sighed...'
*sighs with satisfaction* more twists - yes please! I am loving hearing more about Aragorn at this phase of his life. And loved the lembas reference too.
Author's reply
I don't THINK this will be a huge long story, but you never know. There is one character who, once he creeps on, likes to keep the story going, and he just slipped himself into it during last night's writing.
Anyway, am glad you are enjoying it and liked the reference to the lembas. Seemed to me that if Aragorn's people wished to get things done in rather a hurry so as not to be interrupted by such as customs agents and jealous heirs to Stewards, they'd be glad for the gift.
aragorn_reader
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 2: The Wanderer
Tremendously exciting!
Aragorn's journeys in Far Harad and near Mordor: even more rare and precious than Thorongil fics!
Lovely cultural and material details, as always.
Many thanks!
Amy
Author's reply
Thank you, Amy, for appreciating it all. I've always been into archaeology and anthropology and mythology, so it's been fun working them into some of the stories I write.
Radbooks
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 2: The Wanderer
Larner, I really enjoyed these first two chapters. I remember when this incident was mentioned in the King's Commission and had wondered what had happened, so it's nice to see the story behind it! :) Hardorn is going to be so mad though if Aragorn doesn't get back on time. It made me laugh that Aragorn is worried about the town and the damage Hardorn will cause to it. I like the OC's here - the young man, who is caught in such a desperate situation and his 1/2 brother who is trying to help him. Always such tough choices that people have to make in such desperate times and you just want to survive and help your family. Looking forward to more!
Author's reply
Glad you also appreciate the story being fleshed out. It's been fun trying to figure out how Aragorn might have carried out his visit, and the reactions of those who began to realize he was more than he seemed.
As for Hardorn--that Aragorn did so much on his own during those years must at times have driven him mad.
LOTR lover
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 2: The Wanderer
Wow, this is interesting indeed! What an intriguing culture you've developed for the people of Far Harad, based on Egyptian myth. Your original characters are well drawn (Virubat gives me the shivers) and your portrayal of Aragorn as a spy/merchant is wonderful. I love the small touches that enhance the story: the warehouse of goods, Denethor's suspicions, Hardorn's worry, and the consequences of the dry heat on Aragorn's skin.
Sauron's infiltration of the culture of Far Harad is well drawn. I like your use of the "lesser rings" that are only mentioned in Tolkien and then forgotten. And it's very interesting that Aragorn isn't able to touch it.
I'm bookmarking "Lesser Ring" and will follow it eagerly.
Author's reply
It's the small details that bring the story to life, and so I've been very impressed by certain authors such as Tolkien, Anne Perry, Ellis Peters, Abraham Merrit, and so on who have used them to make us feel we are indeed there. With Tolkien and Merritt it's the settings and landscapes they bring out in such loving detail; in Perry it's the small noises heard in the distance; in Peters/Pargeter it's the descriptions of the houses, furniture, and herbs hanging from the ceiling in the herb brewing hut that make us feel we're sitting there by Brother Cadfael. I'm honored you feel I'm doing the same as some of these greats.
I became interested in mythology as a child, and received my first copy of Bulfinch's Mythology when I was just in second grade. My mother also taught me to appreciate archaeology, and one of my favorite books in my Egyptology collection is Howard Carter's description of the tomb of Tutankhamen, while one of my favorite romance books when I was a child was called Mara, Daughter of the Nile. I'll admit the idea of palace intrigue was in part inspired by that book.
I am honored to have you bookmark the story. Thank you.
Dreamflower
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 2: The Wanderer
Oh this is so excellent. Well-crafted like all your stories! And I have a feeling that even though there will likely be no hobbits in this one, I will enjoy it immensely.
Some of the touches I loved: the characterization of Thorongil, and the description of the way Denethor kept tabs on him. I loved the little thought of sending Denethor the camel, LOL! Now that's the sense of humor you would expect from the foster brother of Elladan and Elrohir. I loved the account of his journey, and how he saved the sick child, and his worries about what Hardorn would do if he were not at the harbor to meet him...
And I especially loved the encounter with Sohlrabi, and the way in which he dispatched the Bad Guy. I have a feeling that "Thorongil" is setting about making a firm new friend, and an ally that will one day stand him in good stead.
Author's reply
Oh, don't be certain Hobbits don't come into it, for it is the tale of TWO trips to Harad, after all. When would he have made the second, do you think?
That the twins' foster brother would have considered sending Denethor a camel does seem appropriate, doesn't it? And I've made Hardorn such a part of Aragorn's life as King, it only made sense that he'd have threatened to take all of Harad apart to make certain it be known he wished Aragorn to take supreme care of himself.
And, yes, Aragorn has managed to make friends where he probably never expected to. As I wrote in Fostering, he left a legacy of decency behind, making it easier for better leaders to take over Harad and Rhun once Sauron was at last utterly defeated.
harrowcat
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 1: The Morning of the Hunt
Oh, intriguing start Larner. Cant wait for more. Sorry about the short review but am borrowing internet time from my Dad.
Author's reply
Hope it continues to intrigue as it develops.
Dreamflower
· 26 July 2005
· Chapter 1: The Morning of the Hunt
What an interesting interpretation of Harad, as being essentially Egyptian. It kind of makes sense--JRRT said Numenor had Egyptian elements...
I like your OC Sohrabi already. I hope nothing dire happens to him.
Author's reply
Egypt was one of the oldest civilizations in the known world, and so I decided to go with it, a sort of proto-Egypt, if you will, as the northern lands are a sort of proto-Europe. Glad you enjoy the idea.