cookiefleck · 13 August 2006 · Chapter 11: Rowan Mine
Very nice; thank you!
Author's reply
Thank you for enjoying, it, Cookiefleck! And hope you enjoyed the last two I posted in the last few days as well.
Moments in Time by Larner
Reviews (1,168)
shirebound · 13 August 2006 · Chapter 11: Rowan Mine
as long as the likes of King Elessar and the Hobbits of the Shire remain in this world, there remains also at least a respect for what was and ought to be. What a lovely story. Healing takes so many forms!
Author's reply
Yes, indeed, healing takes many, many forms; and even Ents deserve some of it as it can be given. So glad you appreciated it, Shirebound.
Baggins Babe · 13 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
I beg you, Manwë, send them guidance. Lady Varda, let your stars shine upon their path and offer them hope. Lord Ulmo, if you can offer them any aid within that dead land, I pray you do so. Lady Yavanna, these are your children if they are those of any of the Valar—sustain their hope and their joy that these two might find them again when the quest is done with. Oromë, hunt the orcs, wargs, Nazgul, and all other who would endanger them off their path. Lord Aüle, guard them in the dark places and allow your soil to be softened under them as they rest. And Namo, if my small brother of the heart is indeed destined to enter your halls, welcome him gently, I pray you. Oh this was absolutely beautiful, Larner. I was moved to tears by Aragorn's exquisite prayer. To ask so much for others and so little for himself said everything about his character too. It really is so good to have you back.
Author's reply
Thank you, Baggins Babe. I am honored by your response. Am able to access the internet for the moment, but this year's experiences have taught me that this may also be but a momentary glitch toward rightness. Heh!
Kitty · 13 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
Very touching ficlet, Larner! It brought tears to my eyes. To let them go on alone and not following them must've been a difficult decision for Aragorn. To face Mordor with them would've probably been easier for him, in spite of the danger, because he then would've known if they are alive and all that. Knowing how much he loved these two, I can imagine how much he thought about them and how hard the uncertainty about heir fate lasted on him. And then to have to lose Frodo to the Undying Lands ... poor Aragorn. Even if it was necessary for Frodo to allow him the much needed healing, for these remaining in Arda it was so hard. And Aragorn lost so much more than only Frodo then. It is very telling of Aragorn's character that he prayed and asked so much for Frodo and so little for himself, isn't it?
Author's reply
Some writers love evoking angst; I find I most love writing pathos. I've always felt the relationship between Frodo and Aragorn would be especially deep, and it's always an honor when I'm told I've managed to portray it in a manner that moves others deeply. And, yes, I think Aragorn's thoughts, like Frodo's, would be more of others than for himself. Thank you.
Kitty · 13 August 2006 · Chapter 9: Ernil i Pheriannath
Glad to see an update from you, Larner, as I was a bit worried about you. Hope you're well. It is understandable Lindirieth can't truly imagine what Frodo and Sam did. It is easier to believe a tall, strong man has done something heroic than a hobbit, small as they are, isn't it? And I had to grin repeatedly about the thought what she would say if she knew *who* the ranger was. For Aragorn it must've been a nice change to escape the stiff formality of the Court and to have some hours off with friends only. Well, Pippin *had* to find the men's plates too small! I am sure in the Shire the plates have to be very big in relation to the size of the people *lol* And I loved his idea he had to outdo Will Whitfood in weight to be a good Thain *grin* Though, of course, when they returned he had managed it even without gaining any weight ... I refuse to set out to carouse with a cousin who looks as if he was intended to be kicked around a playing field. Now, only a loving cousin could say that! *lol* Otherwise, the discussion at the table was interesting. It deepened the characters of the hobbits a bit for the men and explained a lot about the government of the Shire. And I loved the humour in it. The cousins as the creator's revenge on Frodo for his youth *lol* Though I can understand why Frodo was uncomfortable with the way the people of Gondor refused his money as their way to say "thank you", as he can't carry too many gifts back to the Shire, it still makes me angry how much he undervalues his deeds. The question if he deserves the honour shown to him or not is something about what I will forever disagree with Frodo, I fear. To have Frodo and Merry finding the book that once belonged to Gilfileg was a very fitting gift for Aragorn and a nice touch. As was his encounter with Lindirieth years later and his gift of the famous cherry and strawberry jam to her. You know how much I love all these little reminders of other fics. Oh, and Aragorn must've been rather surprised to be called "Lord Strider" from someone other than a hobbit :) To realize his true identity must've been quite the shock for Lindirieth.
Author's reply
I was hoping to do something both humorous and thoughtful, and it appears I managed properly. Pippin is one with several roles going at the moment. With Frodo he's the class clown, seeking to goad his beloved cousin into smiling and humor and resuming the role of senior cousin; with Merry he's still much the little brother and tease who's nevertheless growing up far too quickly; when on duty he's very much the Captain of Gondor he's been made, and very serious about his duties; and he's continuing to grow into the wise fool of a Took he must be when he follows his father as Thain. He's realizing that for Frodo there's no true going back as Merry predicts, that he's been too hurt and changed to truly be just Mr. Baggins again. But he'll do his best to help Frodo find himself as he can. I agree that Frodo thinks far too little of his role in bringing down Sauron. And it was fun to imagine how Merry might react to Pippin's stated ambition to look like a substantial Hobbit. So glad you enjoyed the description of what Merry envisioned for him. And am always glad when hints from one story are picked up on in another. Gilfileg must have regretted the loss of the book, as it's been part of the heritage of the Chieftains of Arnor since the days of Araglas. And the gift of sufficient anonymity that a woman of the city would approach him familiarly must have been precious in the King's sight. So very glad you enjoyed it, Kitty.
Andrea · 13 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
Oh, Larner, that was so beautiful! Really a masterpiece! Thank you for sharing :)
Author's reply
Thank you so very much, Andrea, for your response. I am honored.
Linda Hoyland · 13 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
Touching and beautifully written. I felt I truly was hearing Aragorn's thoughts.
Author's reply
Oh, I am indeed honored, Linda. I hope that now I'm (temporarily, at least) back online I'll be able to catch up with your stories. It's been a true pain being stuck offline for so long!
Elemmírë · 12 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
A very plausible and well done introspection from Aragorn's POV, Larner. I especially liked the comparrisons between Frodo and Sam's journey to that of Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas'. For all the fruitless running across Rohan, yet we have had the easier way in the end, I think. Our way has been well marked by the trampling of orcs, by iron-soled boots and the crushing by them of fruitful things. We even have had reassurance those we sought were yet alive in the fallen brooch, in footprints left in mud, in signs left on the battlefield. And we have had the unforeseen reunion with Gandalf, past all expectation or hope I also liked how the King's Prayer was broken into three distinct sections, each their own 'moment in time'.
Author's reply
I am honored by your response. These three moments I think Aragorn would especially have found himself thinking of Frodo and Sam, and praying for their safety. And, yes, each is indeed a moment in time. Thank you.
Dreamflower · 12 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
Oh my, Larner! This is magnificent!
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so very glad you like it, Dreamflower! Thanks so much!
Armariel · 12 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
Wonderful. Absolutely beautiful and heartfelt, and exactly right somehow. Reads almost like poetry and touches the heart with its gentle cadences. ~~~{~@
Author's reply
From one as capable with poetry as you, that is high praise indeed, Armariel. Thank you so very much!
harrowcat · 12 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
Oh it was so great to get back from my Mum and Dad's and find these two Larner. I have missed your updates and wondered how you were getting on in RL. The tone of Aragorn's prayers are wonderful. I can hear the anguish, the hope, and, above all, the trust. Reading this made me remember that there is a little sentence somewhere in the book that says where ever the Fellowshi were their thoughts were with Frodo and Sam. This is a perfect way of showing this. My favourite bit?.... And Eru, hold these dear ones of Your children in Your hands. Bless and hallow them to their task. And if it is their fate to die upon their journey, I beg You to lead them into Your Presence that I may find them easily when I must follow them at last. Am off again to steam clean carpets next week so out of internet range, again! *groan* I am beginning to realise just how much of a LOTR, SOA addict I have become.
Author's reply
Real life has been very mixed. Have lost the tenants and regained my daughter's family. Now need to work on a reconciliation between my niece and my son-in-law, if such is possible. Hackers have been a pain in the patoot, but at least I've established the satellite dish and electronics and wiring is still sound. There would be a good deal of concern in all the Fellowship regarding Frodo and Sam's safety, and I was indeed addressing exactly that sentence. And I agree about the one sentence you quoted. I think this would indeed be Aragorn's desire. Having spent the last few weeks steamcleaning carpets, wiping down walls, and washing clothes, my best wishes are with you. Love to your parents and Jet.
shirebound · 12 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
Omigosh, how utterly beautiful. I was in tears reading this. How lovely, Larner.
Author's reply
Thank you so much, Shirebound. Moving people's emotions is always satisfying.
Antane · 12 August 2006 · Chapter 10: The King's Prayer
Wow! What a wonderful, loving prayer! I have now listened to the BBC Radio adaptation of the story twice and liked Strider's protrayal very much - he was a calm, soothing presence that these frightened, child-like hobbits needed. And of course, Ian Holm's performance was just so wonderful and heartbreaking. You get a much better idea of just how much Frodo suffered that you don't get from the books or the movies. Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
I have the BBC recordings and wish I had the NPR ones as well. But I agree about how calming Aragorn could be. I found the final conflict with Gollum very disturbing and very effective in that one. And am so glad for the feedback on this, Antane. Good to be back for whatever time I'm given this time.
Lindelea · 11 August 2006 · Chapter 9: Ernil i Pheriannath
This was lovely! This part: It was said that two of them had walked openly through Mordor itself to throw down the Black Tower, although she found the tale that they’d done so by carrying the Enemy’s Ring to Orodruin itself barely credible. It rings so true; judging by appearances, of course it would be hard to believe. And the hobbity history of the Shire, and Frodo's "claim to fame" in his genealogy... And "Hobbits don't take such situations well" *snork!* And Pippin's ambition: "if I’m to be Thain one day I ought to try to look as substantial as I can" !!! roll stuffed with greens and sliced pork Um. I'm hungry. And the recounting of Frodo's childhood qualities, along with the speculation as to the character of his imagined children! And i am interrupted, less than halfway through. Hope to get back again. Read in one of your review responses that you're having trouble with hackers. I'm sorry to hear this. Perhaps they ought to have their first two fingers removed, rather like the French treated English archers (when they could catch them, that is). Sorry, have been writing savage ruffians lately and I'm afraid it's a hard habit to break. Hope to get back to read the rest of this next week.
Author's reply
Hope to get back down your way in a week or two. Life continues frustrating, believe me. If it's not one thing it's six others, but at least I am free of the tenants from the nether regions, which is a tale in its own right! This was mostly a chance to do extended character sketches. And how would a typical resident of the White City see the Hobbits or respond to them as they reveal themselves? Frodo went through Mordor accompanied only by Sam, and somehow brought down the Black Tower? This small being who fusses over not being allowed to pay for a meal, and who obviously loves haggling? Who has admitted he was a terror in his younger days, and laments his misspent youth? And it was fun to write Pippin the clown whose wisdom yet shows itself when he is free, for the moment at least, from having to goading Frodo away from too much introspection and solemnity. I find I do love writing Pippin as much as you do. What would Frodo's children have been like, one wonders? I sometimes want to revisit the story I read of the illegitimate daughter Frodo left in Bree, and figure out what she might have been like. And for Aragorn, I think that a day of anonymity would have been a precious gift. Anyway, love to the husband and girls. My daughter, son-in-law, and grandsons have joined me and I find I love it. Take care and God bless.
Grey Wonderer · 11 August 2006 · Chapter 9: Ernil i Pheriannath
I really enjoyed this. I like the way Frodo wanted to pay his own way. I do think he would have wanted far less attention than he got. I always enjoy your Hobbit stories. I love the way you write Merry.
Author's reply
Oh, am so glad you liked it, GW. Yes, Frodo, I think, would have resented as he saw it having everything handed to him. And I love writing all our beloved fellows.
Baggins Babe · 11 August 2006 · Chapter 9: Ernil i Pheriannath
"I refuse to set out to carouse with a cousin who looks as if he was intended to be kicked around a playing field." I loved that line - thought about it several times at work today and kept giggling to myself. I've missed your stories and it was a real treat to find this this morning. What a gift for Aragorn - to be able to spend a day as Strider, unnoticed by the people of Minas Tirith. Being King must be rather trying for someone like him, used to freedom. Like living in a goldfish bowl I suppose. Ah yes, the fruit purchases and the jam making - how wonderful to see it referenced here.
Author's reply
So glad you enjoyed that description. To get home and find out both Fatty and Will Whitfoot have been brought down to emaciation must have been quite a shock for our four Travellers, I think. And for someone who's been thrust from anonymity to the center of public life, to be spoken to as a person would be a great relief, and Frodo of all people would appreciate that situation, I think. And it was fun to tie this into other stories I've told. Am still fighting hackers. Had to wait weeks to have the satellite dish and connections checked out; and now have to find the restore disk for the Dell. Hackers will be the death of all computer systems, I think! Why can't we put them all into a single room with one too few computers for each and where they can only hack each other's systems? Poetic justice, don't you think?
Dreamflower · 11 August 2006 · Chapter 9: Ernil i Pheriannath
Oh what a delightful encounter! It was so fun to see Lindirieth trying to puzzle out the information she overheard, and to figure out how much of it she would be able to understand! I do so love the stories set in MT before the hobbits go home, and this was such a sweet one!
Author's reply
So glad you loved it, Dreamflower. Yes, how would our beloved heroes appear to the normal woman on the street who hears Frodo recounting not his great triumph but instead just how misspent his youth was? Pippin is revealed as somewhat less than a prince of Halflings, and at the same time somewhat more in spite of his youth. Merry's concern for Frodo is shown, as is Sam's. And Aragorn gets a brief conversation, albeit an honest one, with the woman who meets him in the garden without having to fight through his status as King. Again, am glad this met with so much approval.
Endaewen · 11 August 2006 · Chapter 9: Ernil i Pheriannath
Lovely. So many moments to smile at in this one.
Author's reply
And I rejoice that you have enjoyed it, Endaewen. Thanks so much for the feedback!
demeter d · 11 August 2006 · Chapter 9: Ernil i Pheriannath
Ah, Larner, a lovely little story. i agree with Queen Galadriel. since "An Acceptable Sacrifice" ended, I have not spent near enough time in your Gondor. It is a very good place to visit. That gift from Frodo of one day of anonymity for Aragorn has given him the gift of a subject who dares to talk to him like a person, which gift, I am sure, he would prize highly. This little gem meshes nicely into the complex world you have created so far. One character intrigues me. " a younger kinsman of mine who came south to serve... captive in Rhun for several years..." is that character in the story about the travels to Harad? That one I have not completely read. It sounds like there is a story there. Best Wishes!
Author's reply
It's fun to revisit Gondor from time to time, although I find I love several folks' versions of the city. Am so very glad mine is apparently so well accepted. Oh, yes, a moment speaking to a subject as a person instead of as the Great Lord High Poobah must have been indeed greatly prized by Aragorn, who after all has had a more informal time of it up to now, as so many of his people in the north, as his own relatives, would feel a bit more free to speak their minds than those in Gondor who've lived under the strict formality of Denethor for so many years. The younger kinsman is introduced in the latter half of "The King's Commission," and his story told there. Gilfileg is a bit of a favorite of mine now. And I hope you appreciate the story of "Lesser Ring" as you finish it. Thanks for the good thoughts--I still need them.
shirebound · 11 August 2006 · Chapter 9: Ernil i Pheriannath
What a wonderful, fully complete tale, Larner. Over time, the love and regard the King has for his friends and subjects becomes known, until it is obvious to all.
Author's reply
Oh, I am so glad you appreciate it, Shirebound. Thanks so much for the good words!
Queen Galadriel · 11 August 2006 · Chapter 9: Ernil i Pheriannath
I love it! Love the characterization, the other Hobbits reproving Pippin-ah! he's still a tween and no mistake!-and just the atmosphere in general. I feel as if I'd been welcomed back to Gondor again, a wonderful feeling as I can't tell you how I've missed it. :) You have a wonderful talent for just picking people out of the crowd, as it were, showing us a story through their eyes, and then making them unforgettable. I guess that's what we all do as writers though; sometimes we forget that even the heroes started out as just people in the crowd. So amazing how Frodo manages to impact so many in such small and yet memorable ways. God bless, Galadriel
Author's reply
What a compliment! Thank you! And Pippin may still be a tween, but one begins to see the wisdom he will bring to the office of Thain when that time comes. As for your observation that even heroes start out as individuals taken from the crowd--that is always true. So glad to see you back. Am again having virus problems and am unable to find my restore disks for the desktop. Man, I HATE modern hackers! How was your time in Colorado? Am not able yet to access the email.
Pearl Took · 18 April 2006 · Chapter 7: Iridescence
This is as lovely as the peacocks themselves! A wonderful, gentle story.
Author's reply
Oh, am so glad you appreciate it, Pearl Took. And I like to do a gentle one now and then. Thanks so much for letting me know how you liked it.
demeter d · 29 March 2006 · Chapter 8: In Memorium
Sweet scene.What a lovely remembrance. Yes, in time there would no longer be those who were directly there, who really remembered the time. But ceremonies like this can help preserve the memory for those who come after.I think all of the American veterans of the First World War that I have been acquainted with have gone on. We are now losing our World War Two veterans. But in our family World War one will always be remembered because one of my daughters sat on the front porch with a WWI veteran neighbor as he explained why they treasured the November 11th date to commemorate as Veteran's Day.The 11th hour of the 11th month of the eleventh day, to him signified that they felt that civilization as they knew it came to the brink, and was pulled back by brave men who were willing to sacrifice. My daughter has vowed that she and all of her children will continue to remember. Thanks to Armariel for including the link to Donald Swann's music for Sam's Song. It is truly beautiful. And Larner, I re-read Chapter two of Reconciliation this morning after the house became empty and quiet. I mised so many nice moments the first time. when you post chapter three, i will have more to say about chapter two!
Author's reply
It's the private moments of remembrance that tend to mean the most, I think. In a few hours the Court of Gathering will be crowded with those who will hear the official speeches to the memory of what happened so many years ago, and maybe hear the Lay of Frodo of the Nine Fingers sung or see the Husbandman's Dance which Frodo used to perform regularly done by the visitors from the Shire. But for now it's those who knew Sam and Frodo best of those in the City gathered together on the keel of the rock, just as your daughter sat on the porch with the WWI veteran, singing the song which recalled Frodo to hope, remembering that hope is often all we can cling to in facing the trials of this world. Am not certain if that is Swann's tune or her own for that song. Mine is a bit different. It is lovely, though. I thank her as well.
Lyn · 27 March 2006 · Chapter 7: Iridescence
What a pleasant surprise! Thank you.
Author's reply
Thank YOU for appreciating it, Lyn.
Baggins Babe · 27 March 2006 · Chapter 8: In Memorium
A beautiful moment. I can see them all at the end of the keel of rock, gazing towards Mordor and singing. I'm always overjoyed when I see you've updated these stories, Larner. Thank you so much for this.
Author's reply
So glad you do, Baggins Babe. And I, too, can see the singing there of Men, Elf, Dwarf, and Hobbits, as all remember how difficult it was for Sam and Frodo when they went that way.