In Darkness Buried Deep by GamgeeFest
Larner · 14 October 2005 · Chapter 5: The Old Forest
Old Man Willow and his cohorts are so dastardly. I'd wondered how he'd managed to get by them unseen, and now know. Wonderful! Poor Frodo, stuck in his clearing....
Author's reply
Exactly. They fooled him by remaining complacent, letting him get a false sense of security and just far enough into the forest that they could set their traps for him. Then they struck. Those trees are such bullies, lol! You caught up fast!
Larner · 14 October 2005 · Chapter 4: The Gate Is Open
Lump of fabric, eh? Frodo's weskit? Ah, dear child, where have you gone?
Author's reply
There's only one place he could have gone and he'll wind up staying there a lot longer than he had planned, poor boy. But ill-prepared plans often go astray.
Bodkin · 14 October 2005 · Chapter 5: The Old Forest
Poor Frodo. Saradoc and Esmeralda will be frantic when the penny drops. I hope they don't think Gil was acting as Frodo's accomplice in this - since he's totally innocent of that!
Author's reply
Frodo does have a time of it ahead of him. This won't be a nice quick walk in the park. No one will even know *how* Frodo got into the Forest, so Gil will be safe of that accusation at least. Edon, on the other hand, well, he *did* take Frodo to the Gate. There could be some danger in it for Edon. And the bounder of course.
Larner · 14 October 2005 · Chapter 3: An Unexpected Request
Yes, sometimes the quiet ones will sneak up on you with some observation that will take you by total surprise. And glad Fuschia recognized Gil's need for the reprimand.
Author's reply
It's *always* the quiet ones. It would be interesting to do an introspective on Frodo and find out just what exactly he knows about everyone and everything. He and Sam are similar in this way - they can both make themselves "disappear" and overhear all sorts of things. Though with Sam, it's done with a specific purpose and intention, while Frodo does it out of timidness. Fushcia had some reprimands of her own for Gil once they had returned to the Hall and were alone, you can be assured of that. Whatever Edon might think, she wouldn't have been fooled by Gil apologizing if the apology had been insincere.
Larner · 14 October 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories Stir
Interesting time between Gil and Edon. I, too, wonder what happened between the two of them. May take me a few more days to catch up.
Author's reply
We will eventually find out what ultimately ended Gil and Edon's friendship, but there are many other smaller things that occured beforehand that won't be delved into in this story. There's simply not enough time for it all. There will be little hints and clues along the way though. :)
RenaissanceGrrl · 13 October 2005 · Chapter 5: The Old Forest
OMG! Poor Frodo! That would be INCREDIBLY frightening, even for me. Suspense! Gah! *cannot wait for next chapter*
Author's reply
I think I would be rather freaked too, and I don't get freaked very easily. The forest was deceptive in letting Frodo pass and remain there without any problems. Once he attempted to leave, they showed their true colors. Frodo's going to have to use every ounce of cunning he has.
RenaissanceGrrl · 13 October 2005 · Chapter 4: The Gate Is Open
Gil gets applauded for THAT? Sounds to me like the crowd is easily impressed. Frodo's missing! Dun dun dun...
Author's reply
Yep, the hobbits don't get much excitement after all. And considering that everyone else was too afraid to even move one toe toward the Gate, they would consider if quite the feat. Consider it similar to a kid who runs up to the scary old lady's house and knocks on the door. :)
Andrea · 13 October 2005 · Chapter 5: The Old Forest
"He could take care of himself, and Merry if necessary." That's our Frodo - always taking care of his Merry-lad! You did a great job here with your description of Frodo's feelings. To control your fears until the tension is over and no-one is watching anymore, and then finally let your tears run free - that sounds very familiar. I'm confident that Frodo will make it out of the Old Forest, though. After all, he's a Baggins and therefore the perfect adventurer!
Author's reply
Yes, Frodo is very protective of his Merry, which helps explain why Merry is later so protective of Frodo. We must all do that at times - control our emotions until it's safe to let them go. For Frodo, that means when he's alone and can cry without anyone catching him at it and fussing over him. He's a Baggins, but he doesn't have much of Bilbo's teachings yet. This might prove to be a bit over his head. Or, it might not. We'll have to wait and see. :)
Dreamflower · 13 October 2005 · Chapter 5: The Old Forest
Oh, poor Frodo-lad! How dreadful! You do describe so very well the feelings a child has, who has lost a parent early and unexpectedly. I speak from personal experience. You have it down pat: nothing seems safe or secure anymore. I am interested in your version of the relationship between Frodo and his foster-parents. Now in my version, Frodo has lived with them from the time his parents died--Sara, in fact, was one of two guardians appointed in Drogo's will, the other being Bilbo. But in your version you indicate he stayed with others first--I am curious if you will reveal who, and under what circumstances he came to be with Sara and Esme. Very intriguing. If you don't deal with it in *this* story, maybe in another...*shoves plot bunny in your direction*looks away innocently*
Author's reply
lol, that plot bunny bit me a long time ago, right after I finished "A Tale" to be exact. He's been happily munching on grass and carrots since then. So long as I can keep him distracted, I might be able to save my ankles. ;) In my line of work, I see children get shuffled around from relative to relative far too often. That, along with the time I spent studying psychology and sociology, colors the way I see Frodo's situation at Brandy Hall, though I do give him some stability in Esmeralda and Saradoc. I think Primula and Drogo would have expected an older relative, one of Primula's siblings who have already had children, to take care of Frodo should anything happen to them. I've mentioned their names in previous fics, though you mihgt not remember. Don't worry though; you'll learn a bit more about that in the next chapter and a few more tiny snippets throughout the story. That full tale is, of course, yet to be written. Let's take this one angsty story at a time! lol Security and stability are crucial for any child to grow up well-adjusted. The loss of a parent, let alone both, would cause a child's world to turn askew. Frodo lost his parents at an extremely young age, and with that he also lost his innocence - his blind belief that everything would be all right, so long as his parents were there to take care of him. He never truly recovered from their loss and there will always be that seed of doubt in him. He might have been able to forget it for a long time, with Bilbo's help, but its roots were deep.
estelnalissi · 13 October 2005 · Chapter 5: The Old Forest
It's 3 A M. Snap! Snap! Rustle! Rustle! And I'm supposed to go to sleep now? How Unkind! Continue soon, Please?
Author's reply
LOL, sorry you lost sleep! I'm glad you're enjoying the story though. Thanks for reading!
Bodkin · 11 October 2005 · Chapter 4: The Gate Is Open
Frodo is the kind of kid who will take all the boasting seriously and go out and do all the sorts of things the bigger boys wouldn't really attempt. Being in the Old Forest doesn't seem a good thing - and no-one will really suspect that that is where he is - because the boys don't really do it! I like how Saradoc is disappointed to find that Frodo isn't there. It shows a real care for the lad that Frodo probably doesn't see. Good story.
Author's reply
Frodo's a bit more perseptive than that. On some level he does understand that the older kids are merely pretending to be brave, but he can't even do that! And that's the problem. Plus he tends to be impulsive at this age, and thus makes bad decisions without really thinking them through. Then there's that famous stubborn streak of his. Once he has an idea in his head, he won't let it go. But you are right that no one will think to look for him there, and for more than just the reason you listed. It's been hard on Saradoc and Esme to care for Frodo. He's so withdrawn most of the time and yet they care for him so much. It's more than a bit of a one-sided relationship. And you're right - Frodo doesn't see it. He may be able to see when others are cared about or admired, but he completely misses it when it's directed at him.
Larner · 9 October 2005 · Chapter 1: A Summer Race
Just catching up with this one. Gil sounds like a lot of adolescents I've had to deal with at one time or another.
Author's reply
Adolescents haven't changed much over the years, lol. Thanks for reading!
Grey Wonderer · 9 October 2005 · Chapter 4: The Gate Is Open
I think I know what Frodo has done and if so, it would be just like him. It isn't showy and it would take a while for the word to get out that he'd made it into the Old Forest, but it would have been the surest way to get in without getting stopped. Shows the difference between Frodo and the older lads. The older lads want the praise for having "tried" but they'd never actually want to manage it. Frodo was determined to get in and I think he has..... This is so good! Can't wait for more.
Author's reply
Frodo's a sneaky thing and he knows an opportunity when he sees one. ;) Frodo's quest, if you want to call it that, has nothing to do with social praise. It's entirely personal and therefore he doesn't need, nor want, everyone to know what he's done. And you're right, it will take time for everyone to realize what has happened. Hopefully, not too much time.
Isilhen Daegol · 9 October 2005 · Chapter 4: The Gate Is Open
Hmmm... Any respect I may have had for Gil has gone now. He should have apologized to Frodo when he had the chance, no matter what others might have turned it around to say. So long as he made ammends with Frodo, he shouldn't have cared what others said. But I guess that's why he's the "bad" guy in this fic... I agree with Fuchsia. It's silly and childish... but I would do it! ^_^ I'd go all the way to the gate and then stop for a chat with the bounder! Anyway, I'm curious as to how Frodo got past the bounder, since I think we all know that he got in somehow. Well, I'll just have to wait and see. Good job here!
Author's reply
Like most kids his age, Gil doesn't always make the best decisions. And he did have good reasons for keeping his mouth shut in front of Edon, because Edon would never have *let* him make amends. By misconstruing Gil's words, Edon would have likely made it worse. Besides, as far as Gil is concerned, he'll be able to speak with Frodo later. Of course, we know that isn't the case. LOL, that's probably what Merry would do too! More on Frodo in the next chapter. :)
Dreamflower · 9 October 2005 · Chapter 4: The Gate Is Open
Oh goodness! None of them realize yet what Frodo's done! I have a feeling that when they do the fat (to be polite) will hit the fan! Saradoc and Esme will certainly not be pleased with Gil and Edon if they think that it was their quarrelsomeness that goaded Frodo into trying such a foolish thing. And Frodo? How's he faring, so young and alone?
Author's reply
You might be a bit surprised by their initial reaction to Frodo's disappearance. They'll find out soon enough that Frodo's missing, but they won't know where he's gone. If they do find out what's happened, it won't look too good for Gil or Edon. Edon especially has cause to worry. More on Frodo in the next chapter. :)
Andrea · 9 October 2005 · Chapter 4: The Gate Is Open
"...thus missing the lump of fabric laying upon the ground at the forest’s edge." He went in, didn't he? Frodo is really the most stubborn hobbit, I've ever seen! If Gil only had known before, what his thoughtless words would cause.
Author's reply
Yep, he went in. Stubborn, and reckless and much too sneaky for his own good, lol! He's gotten himself in a pickle now. Hindsight is 20/20. If only we could all know what our actions would result in. Gil will be berating himself before too long, along with a few other people too. Thanks for reading!
TheHobbitWaffle · 8 October 2005 · Chapter 4: The Gate Is Open
Where did Frodo go?! Another lovely chapter ^^
Author's reply
Into the Forest, of course. ;) Unfortunately, it won't work exactly the way he was planning it to, if he had really planned anything at all. Thanks for reading!
Breon Briarwood · 8 October 2005 · Chapter 4: The Gate Is Open
Eep! *bites nails* It's what I think it is, isn't it? *bites nails some more*
Author's reply
I don't know, what do you think it is? lol. But seriously, yep it is. Frodo's a little too sneaky for his own good. *hands Breon some Lee Press-ons* Thanks for reading!
Bodkin · 8 October 2005 · Chapter 3: An Unexpected Request
Well - maybe Gil's all right. In a testosterone-poisoned kind of way. And Edon has his own admirer. Frodo comes over beautifully as a younger teen, not altogether sure of the rules by which he is playing. And Saradoc and Esme are good guardians - maybe just a little out of their depth with this poor grieving lad. I love the point that the lads want to look brave, but without actually succeeding at their dare. Very true to life! And again, Frodo isn't really old enough to understand that part! Looking forward to more.
Author's reply
Gil's not quite as he first appeared to be - and neither is Edon. Gil's at that age where he thinks he knows everything, making him your typical cocky tween, lol. Frodo is quite out of the loop with the rules the older lads are playing by. He might be more observant on some things, but he too overlooks things. He wants to fit in and he desperately wants friends, but he doesn't exactly know how to go about it and winds up tagging along, not an outcast but not really part of the group either. Saradoc and Esme do their best. They want to help Frodo through his grief and want to see him happy again. Frodo constantly shutting himself off doesn't help them and they don't know how to get through to him because of this. Oh yes, tweens and their dares! So brave, aren't they, lol. I can just hear them "double dog dare"-ing each other right now! And Frodo of course takes it seriously. He has much to learn about the boastful ways of tweenaged lads.
Isilhen Daegol · 7 October 2005 · Chapter 3: An Unexpected Request
And the plot thickens... I've got a cousin named Piper. But she's only three years old. She's adorable, though. Yeah, Frodo's a smart lad. He does what I do: he makes himself unobtrusive and people forget about him, so he learns lots of stuff. I agree with Fuchsia. Gil did deserve that... and he deserved Fuchsia's reprimand, too. In any case, this was a good chapter. Keep 'em coming!
Author's reply
Frodo's learned that be keeping quiet and playing at distraction that he can overhear and learn all sorts of things. It helps that most people don't even think to notice him in the first place. Yes, Gil did deserve that - and Gil knew it also. He didn't agrue his case, as you might have noticed, because he knew he didn't have one. And he expected Fuchsia's reprimand also; he knows when his lass is displeased with him. ;)
Grey Wonderer · 6 October 2005 · Chapter 3: An Unexpected Request
I love this one! I love the bit where Frodo is playing with the spider. (Shelob will get revenge later.) I love how pleased Saradoc is when Frodo mentions running in the race and training. I love Esmeralda's stern reaction to Gil's confession. I love the fact that Frodo knows who fancies who when the older lads have completely missed the signs. I loved the spooky story of the Took lad who died a year after going into the Old Forest! (Nice little Urban legend, Shire-style.) I can't wait to see what's going to happen next!
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so glad you enjoyed this! *grins* Spider/Shelob - look for that to come up again later. :) Saradoc has been waiting for a long time for Frodo to show interest in something, and that Frodo has picked something that Saradoc once participated in understandably elated him. Esmeralda is a bit of a mama bear when it comes to her charges. She's not one you want to cross! (Must be that Took blood ~_^ ) Frodo's very observant and more than a bit intuitive. He notices things others overlook, and of course the older lads aren't paying attention to *anything* lol. There are a lot of urban legends in this one it seems.
TheHobbitWaffle · 6 October 2005 · Chapter 3: An Unexpected Request
What is Frodo up to? Hmmm, the lad certainly can be tricky! You so a great job with the OC's, they are very believable. Another great chapter. As Rena said, I can never get used to people calling him Sara. That's my name, exactly the way I spell it. So weird.
Author's reply
Well, Frodo was originally up to nothing more than what he told Saradoc. But that little brain of his is ticking now and that's not necessarily a good thing. :) Tricky indeed. Where do you think Merry learned it from? lol It's always odd for me to see my name in stories or hear it on tv shows or movies. It is weird. :)
Dreamflower · 6 October 2005 · Chapter 3: An Unexpected Request
I love the beginning of this, and Sara's delight at the thought of Frodo coming out of his melancholy, and then Esme jumping to his defense and scolding Gil, although it might have been better for Gil if he had caught up with Frodo and made his apology. The idea of maintenance on the High Hay is a good one--it makes sense, and would explain why there is a gate, and why Brandybucks would be going in. And I loved your tale of Hildigard, and your explanation of how he died young. Frodo is such a dear at this age. I love the way he has noticed the other lass who seems to like Edon. And somehow I get the feeling that Frodo is going to escape the vigilance of the Bounders...(well, of course he is, you said so in the summary...) *grin*
Author's reply
Saradoc and Esme have been hoping for Frodo to improve for so long, that Saradoc jumped at the first possible sign that it was happening. As such, he didn't stop to wonder about *why* Frodo suddenly wants to be more active. He would have been wise to insist that Frodo wait for him before going off to the field, but his elation clouded his judgment temporarily. Esme is just as much a mama bear as any other mother. She has come to consider Frodo as one of her own and she isn't about to stand by and let someone get away with saying such things to Frodo. Yes, Gil would have been better off if he had gone after Frodo, but he had his reasons for staying and talking to Esme. First, she could have been pretending that she didn't know what had happened the day before. Gil has reasons for believing people would be suspicious of him and try to catch him in a lie, though of course Esme isn't like that. And if Frodo didn't tell her, it would only be a matter of time before someone else did. So, he told her the truth up front. Hildigard came in quite handy in building the legend surrounding the forest. Merry might be flippant about it, but the other hobbits of Buckland rightly feared the forest. The book mentions that gardeners constantly tended the Hedge and that's why it grew so high. They would have to tend the other side also, if they didn't want that side to grow wild and heavy, possibly causing part of the Hedge to collapse. Frodo is the sweetest scamp and scoundrel that ever there was. :) Children tend to be more observant than older people, even tweens, and Frodo has the bonus of being intuitive and compassionate. He would have noticed Piper's starring and what it meant. Frodo? Get past the Bounders? *grins*
RenaissanceGrrl · 6 October 2005 · Chapter 3: An Unexpected Request
Teeheehee, wee!Frodo's more of a scamp than Merry and Pip ever were. Piper indeed. I don't like Gil. Is that going to change?
Author's reply
I've always considered Frodo as a bigger scamp than his younger cousins. Of course, we all know, from Farmer Maggot, that Frodo used to be one of the worst scoundrels in Buckland in his younger day. Merry and Pippin have a lot to live up to. :) Children often see things us older people don't notice, especially when we're obsessing, as Edon is about Fuchsia. You don't like Gil, huh? I don't know. *Is* it going to change? ^_^
Isilhen Daegol · 5 October 2005 · Chapter 2: Memories Stir
Hmmm... I really like how you can develop characters so quickly, and they're not one dimensional. It's always better when there's not a clear cut "bad" or "good" guy. I can see Edon's point, but I can also see Gil's point, and I think they're both right. And that's the way it usually works in the real world. That's what I like about your writing so much. Your characters are so real, if you disregard the fact that they're usually hobbits. Anyway, good job with this chapter. I know it took me a while to read this, but don't keep me waiting too awful long for the next chapter, or I'll have to come after you with my plastic lightsaber!
Author's reply
I try to keep away from "good" and "bad" guys. Even the bad guys can have good parts about them, and vice versa. Realizing that and expanding on it can make the bad guy not only more interesting, but more realistic also. And, the "bad" guy might not necessarily be the most obvious one, unless of course, he is. :)