Kitty
· 28 November 2005
· Chapter 37: 37: King's Gift
*shakes head* Angrapain is hopeless, isn't he? He does obviously still not truly understand what he is in for. To think Wasnior wouldn't allow it! *snorts* Wasnior is glad he has got away unharmed, I'd suspect. And what Gandalf said about what Angrapain and Belladon would have had faced in Umbar ... *shudders* ... and the man still thinks Aragorn wouldn't punish him? Truly hopeless.
Poor Frodo to have nightmares again! It is good the two Princes of Eryn Lasgalen accompanied him and Tharen told of the situation in his home - I think it is good for Frodo to realize the repercussions of the destruction of the Ring once more and how much good came from this.
I'd not thought Frodo would sense Angrapain's branding. Now I'm wishing the Ring to the hell once again - it is bad enough Aragorn can feel it, and he is prepared and in much better shape than Frodo. Frodo shouldn't have to endure something like this at all.
The exchange between Pippin and Aragorn was hilarious. It's so very like Sam, to berate Pippin for not adressing Aragorn properly! Sam would be a wonderful Master of Protocol, indeed, with his always being proper. Although Pippin is probably right about Galadon :D
Author's reply
The Angrapains of this world NEVER get it. They convince themselves they are above the law and can do what they wish; when the judgments come in they are always surprised, right up to the end.
Frodo has a far greater store of evil memories than anyone else remaining in Middle Earth at the moment, probably; he has more fodder for nightmares than all others, unfortunately. And I think all who've loved the books and the movies have come to hate that Ring--the one imaginary object that all equally detest--or secretly wish we could come across, I must suppose for some at least. I'm certain we have our share of Sarumans in this world of ours.
Of the three being punished, Angrapain is the one Frodo has connected with, even if only briefly. If he were to feel a punishment, I think it would be with him.
And glad Galador has been good for a laugh, even if from a bit of a distance and at second hand as in this case. Sam WOULD make a decent Master of Protocol, wouldn't he?
Thanks so much for the comments.
harrowcat
· 28 November 2005
· Chapter 37: 37: King's Gift
I was waiting eagerly for this chapter. But then again I don't know if 'eagerly' is the right word. And you didn't disappoint. What a lot to take in.
I don't think I would want Aragorn either angry at or even near me! Even contained and fully justified. I am glad that they reach understanding. And to see Frodo actively reaching out to comfort Aragorn is wonderful.
Your evaluation of such persons as Angrapain is masterly even if it makes very uncomfortable reading as did the description of the branding. I felt a little sick reading this before breakfast but you made it just graphic enough without dwelling on it too much!
I could go on and on about this chapter Larner it is so great.
You have just made me need to go and re-read Shelob's Lair in the original. I suppose I always assumed that Frodo was unconscious or at least unaware when Shelob poisoned him. But some of Frodo's nightmares make me wonder whether he was just paralyzed and fully aware of all that was happening to both him and Sam. Nightmare material indeed! I have heard of people undergoing surgery where the anaesthetic hasn't worked but they cannot move.
The King's Gift, and your interpretation of it, is fantastic. But like many gifts truly double-edged. Balance and Perspective are the key words aren't they? And often the hardest things to achieve in our lives.
Got a nice giggle out of Sam telling Pippin about 'minding his place'! Impeccable logic! And this bit:
Aragorn gave a short laugh. “Perhaps I ought to make Sam Master of Protocol alongside Galadorn.”
“You couldn’t do that--it would destroy the Man,” Pippin insisted around a bite of apple. “To have to share his office would wipe out his ability to know himself. I doubt he knows much else to do with himself but to worry about making certain of your lineage and seating at feasts and so on.”
got both a laugh and a nod of understanding and appreciation.
Author's reply
What Frodo might have been aware of after being poisoned by Shelob is anyone's guess; that he might well have been aware but paralyzed at least at first made sense; or perhaps he is just imagining such a situation. Hard to say, of course.
Yes, any gift can become a burden if it is not kept in balance, as I think most of us realize in our lives. Aragorn hasn't had the chance to be stripped of almost all his joys as was true of Frodo, and thus has a much easier time keeping things in perspective; while for Frodo each new blow must feel as if it is striking right over the bone, for he has no reserves of pleasures to help cushion things.
The true career criminal is almost totally self-centered, and all too often cannot imagine that he or she will be required at some time to suffer the consequences of his actions. And so they tend to be surprised, even when well advised, when payment comes due. Have seen it so often over the years.
As for Galador--am glad that between Sam and Pippin we're able to find some humor in his situation. And Sam is starting to become his father, I think.
Tigger
· 27 November 2005
· Chapter 37: 37: King's Gift
Poor Frodo...Just when he was starting to begin to heal, this happens. It's no surprise in your world that Frodo shares The King's Gift. He and Aragorn are brothers after all.
And Angrapain still doesn't get it does he? Frodo is right, the punishment is barbaric, but also given out to those who do deserve it. Also given w/the aid of a draught. I doubt very much that happened in Medieval Times. At least when Aragorn does order such a judgement, he tries to make it as painless as possible.
Interesting chapter Larner. As always, looking forward to the next part. :o)
Author's reply
For the rest of his time within Middle Earth Frodo will know a few steps forward and two back and a couple to one side or the other. He is going to realize that both physically and spiritually he has been wounded. It's not an easy thing to accept.
No, in the Middle Ages little was done to aid those ordered to be punished--the pain was part of the punishment, after all, while Aragorn is more interested in making certain these two are easily recognized as serious malefactors, allowing them to be more easily taken if they seek to escape and more readily turned back at the borders should they try to reenter Gondor once their sentences are finished.
Ahhh the singing...was really, really hoping Frodo would join in, thanks for not disappointing me! (Not that you ever do:))
Very lovely chapter!
~~~{~@
Author's reply
Even Frodo rejoices to see it gone, and all together help to dispell many of the shadows still lingering over the city.
So glad it was what you wished to see here!
French Pony
· 27 November 2005
· Chapter 37: 37: King's Gift
Well, the King's Gift is certainly something that'll make Aragorn think long and hard about the sentence he pronounces on criminals. It'll probably end up being a great thing for Gondorian justice. It does seem like it'd be a real handicap in time of war, though.
I loved the scene of Angrapain in prison. Right up till the moment the branding iron appears, he still doesn't get it. The guy will never learn.
Author's reply
The idea of the King's Gift came from the belief in the Sacred King, the King who stands for the land and its people before God and for God before the land and its people. The Sacred King was considered to be a representative of the health of the realm, and as such was aware of it. It would make for a highly responsible ruler if he indeed possessed the King's Gift, as such an individual would quickly realize he must temper justice with mercy, and had best make certain he's positive of his judgments when he makes them.
That it would be a handicap in war is more in question. Once he knows war is inevitable, he'd undoubtedly lead his troops rather than commanding from the rear, and do his best to win as quickly and with as little loss of life as possible. Whether or not the King would be responsive to the lives of orcs, as constructs of Morgoth and Sauron and Saruman, is questionable; but the men among his foes who survived he would probably seek to turn into allies as soon as possible. And it is possible that the adrenaline of an actual fight would serve to counter the awareness of losses, at least during the fight itself.
Balance and perspective would be needed by such a one.
And no, Angrapain still doesn't get it--but then he bears the hallmark of the career criminal--total self-absorption. Such folk often have difficulties accepting the consequences of their actions.
Queen Galadriel
· 27 November 2005
· Chapter 37: 37: King's Gift
Interesting gift. But bless dear Sam! He always knows when something is wrong-and by this I'm referring to the night walk. God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
Yes, Sam has attuned himself so to Frodo that he can tell usually when things are worse. He's still intent on getting Frodo back again as whole as possible.
Thanks so much for the feedback.
Dreamflower
· 27 November 2005
· Chapter 37: 37: King's Gift
If only Frodo can be enabled to accept this as a natural gift for him, and not something that was brought on by the Ring; if only he could learn to once more be able to take pleasure once more...
A very thought-provoking and insightful chapter.
Author's reply
The Ring would have taken this natural gift and twisted it as much as it could, heightening the awareness of pain and stifling as much as possible the feedback of contentment which sustained Frodo at Bag End.
Learning to deal with it and not allowing it to overwhelm him is where he needs to be now.
Thanks so much for the comments.
“If the stone had not come to me, small brother, it could have been meant for you to wear. You use it well, and it is glad of you.” Quite insightful, as Aragorn doesn't know as yet about his very special connection with Frodo and Sam!
I was so glad Aragorn was able to comfort Frodo and to help him a bit. When reading these little scenes of them together I am always so sad Frodo couldn't remain in Middle-earth. They loved each other so much.
As for Galador, that was amusing. Poor guy, he has obviously taken Aragorn's reprove taken a bit too much to heart. After that it must have been an even bigger shock to find Aragorn at his door, not to mention with the two other human kings in tow. Honestly, I look forward to the arrival of the Elves and hope you will give us a glimpse of Galador's attempt to sort out *this* seating arrangement!
The singing in the end was wonderful!
Author's reply
Galadriel warned Frodo that to bear a ring of power was to be alone; and yet in reality Frodo is always defined by his relationships. All who came to know him well came to love him, even in the end Lobelia, once she let go her smallness and ambition and resentment. Frodo and Sam; Frodo and Merry; Frodo and Pippin; Frodo and Gandalf; Frodo and Bilbo; and Frodo and Aragorn--each is a special relationship, a different means of showing the love Frodo drew to himself and poured back out onto those who came to love him.
Glad you saw the humor I'd intended to put into the visit between Galador and Aragorn. To find not one but THREE KINGS at the door--I find myself humming "Have you seen a child the color of wheat, the color of corn...." or "This is my box!"
Sorry--don't know how Menotti managed to sneak into this reply, but he's doing that right now with Christmas coming up......
We'll see how Aragorn and Galador handle the seating arrangement at the next feast.
And so glad you loved the singing.
Poor Frodo, not able to eat and enjoy food - what a terrible thing for a hobbit! He must feel very resentful towards the Ring for all it has taken from him, but he still wants it. No wonder he feels such terrible guilt.
The ending was beautiful, with all those voices mingling and singing to cleanse the last of the darkness. And how wonderful that Frodo was able to join in - not all beauty and enjoyment is lost to him.
Author's reply
Frodo was terribly emptied by what he experienced, and as a Hobbit not being able to eat properly must have been sheer torture. And, yes, hating and wanting the Ring back would raise guilt in his, raise it indeed.
And yet at moments such as hearing the song from above and joining in it, Frodo begins to realize he's not lost everything, that there is still some core of himself which can be cultivated and fill him again.
Thanks so much for the comments.
It just breaks my heart to see Frodo so emptied and wounded. But ohhh, such love from those around him.
And the stone delighted, he realized, to Frodo’s touch.
He didn’t try to direct the healing offered, just let it go where it was needed. Finally he murmured against the Hobbit’s chest, “If the stone had not come to me, small brother, it could have been meant for you to wear. You use it well, and it is glad of you
So lovely and gentle. And what a wonderful description of the music as sung by such different peoples!
Author's reply
There will be times when Frodo will feel almost whole, and times when he will feel totally emptied, although neither is quite true of him. He has been wounded, and he'll do his best as long as he can, and then will need to leave, for he simply doesn't fit in fully anywhere any more.
And am so glad you felt the music was well described. I think such a singing would be needed in the recovery of the city and eventually of the entire dual realm.
Thanks so much for the response!
French Pony
· 27 November 2005
· Chapter 36: 36: Finding Harmony
Oh, that last bit was wonderful! The Ring took so much from Frodo, but it could not take away his singing voice nor his pleasure in song. He deserves to have at least one pleasure left to him. And I love the descriptions of all the different voices blending together. That must be a glorious sound to hear.
I think I see a purpose behind Arwen's later gift to Frodo. I bet that jewel was more than just a pretty bauble.
I can certainly understand Aragorn's do-it-yourself ethic, but he might want to let his staff do at least a few things for him. That's their job, after all, and they seem like they might become slightly insulted if the King keeps swooping in and insisting that he can do their jobs as well as his. It'll take him a while to find a happy medium on that. Perhaps he should start by teaching his protocol master how things are done in the North rather than arranging the seating for a Northern party all by himself.
Author's reply
Hmm. I took it that this is Aragorn beginning to teach Galador how things are done in the Northlands and among the Elves who raised and nurtured him and who have sustained him all his life. He's not taking over--he does want to see how things settle out and offer his own suggestions when it is appropriate, I think. And he's opening regular communication in a manner such as Galador is probably best suited to appreciate. I don't see Aragorn so much into micromanagement as you appear to see me portraying him as much as he, as the top administrator, is making certain that buck always appropriately stops there. Galador knows the lords of Gondor; Aragorn knows the officials they will deal with from the North; and now the two of them need to cooperate to keep things running smoothly.
And thanks for the pleasure you've expressed about the song. Considering Tolkien had his universe come into being by means of harmonies and song, I felt that part of the letting go of the griefs of the past would require cooperative singing by all now gathered in the capitol, led by the singing of the Firstborn.
Andrea
· 27 November 2005
· Chapter 36: 36: Finding Harmony
Oh, Larner, the singing brought tears to my eyes! That was really beautiful and it helped Frodo to forget about his illness and sorrows for a short time. I believe in the healing power of music.
That moment on the balcony, Frodo *felt* alive. Although his guilt seems to be overwhelming, his ability to delight in music, dancing and beauty is still there. He should not give up!
Author's reply
Between the few joys left to him that he continues to cultivate and his stubbornness he is able at the end to make it to Tol Eressea, where this love of beauty will lift him above where he was before; and his presence will teach the denizens of the Undying Lands to appreciate even more the glory with which they are surrounded.
Raksha The Demon
· 27 November 2005
· Chapter 36: 36: Finding Harmony
The singing of the Elves, Men, Dwarves, and Hobbits, all their voices flowing together, was just beautiful; and the feeling of thanksgiving it inspired in the people of Minas Tirith very appropriate for them, and for some of us, at this time of year. I will note that I personally believe Faramir is a baritone rather than a tenor; but JRRT doesn't say anything on the subject, so one is free to follow one's imagination in that regard, as you have done so elegantly in this chapter.
It's good also that the power of the song seemed to help Frodo, so he could join in the blessing.
Wouldn't they make a splendid opera company? Or even a rock group?
Author's reply
I'd just like to hear them as a choir, myself!
Song is how the universe in which Arda came into existence; and so I figured that such a group singing would be an important part of how the city of Minas Tirith would begin letting go of the griefs brought by so long a time under the deadening shadow of Mordor.
So, you hear Faramir as a baritone; maybe. I am certain only he would have a marvelous voice that would be uplifting to hear.
I do feel for Master Galador. He wants to be helpful but just a little too full of his own sef-importance and place to deal comfortabley with the changes happening in spite of him. I fear this is going to be a bit of a bumpy relationship for a while.
And the part between Frodo and Aragorn is beyond any words of mine at present!
I could hear the beauty of the song - all the races of Arda sharing in a song of thanksgiving and creation. - Wonderful and I am so glad that it touched Frodo enough for him to join in too. Healing well begun.
Author's reply
Galador is himself rather insecure, as rigid following of rules tends to be an attribute of those who suffer from insecurity. He's just beginning to realize there is more than one way to play at etiquette, and will need a bit of time to get used to that; but Aragorn will teach him what he is willing to learn.
I'm glad the interaction between Frodo and Aragorn moved you, and hope it moved you in a positive manner.
And it is time for the races to come together and join in the healing of the wounds Sauron has left. Healing is still continuing for Frodo, but it's not the easy process he wants. Am so glad that you loved the singing.
Ah, Frodo!
What It did to him, how it scraped away at him, little by little, how It tormented him in small ways for not seeking to claim It, nor taking It to Sauron--you describe all that very well. You also describe very well all the things Aragorn is trying to alleviate Frodo's pain and discomfort. *sigh*
I liked the bit with Faralion and Galador discussing their King, and the changes he is making. I really liked it when Aragorn came in, showed his interest in the process and made his own role clear. The fact that much of what Galador finds distressing in the new King's behaviour can be put down to his using Elven customs must be reassuring. Very comforting to one used to protocl to realize that the differences are not just a whim on the King's part, nor a deliberate flouting of years of tradition, but simply an adherence to a different system of ettiquette. Now that he knows the King will take a hand, and that there will be occasions when a different protocol will apply, Galador can relax a bit, and not worry so much.
And the description of the singing was beautiful. I'm so glad Frodo could enjoy it, and join his voice in at the end.
Author's reply
Yes, to realize that this is a different set of etiquette rules must be reassuring to Galador; but at the same time he is most likely not quite certain that there could be a different way of doing things. But he'll learn--it may take a few years, but he'll learn; and he'll give Aragorn comic relief now and then as things go on.
Aragorn wants to help Frodo, but is realizing that the damage went too deep for his skills and gifts; so he does now as he can. The Ring was a most caustic agent in Frodo's life.
And I'm so very glad that so many appreciate the joined song at the end, one which inspires Faralion to write the song Gimli and Aragorn sing part of in "Lesser Ring." The cloud of Mordor has finally been lifted, and the city which has lain in its shadow for so long is finally realizing this is true.
Oh, our dear Frodo! *hugs him* This goes beyond pity. The poor hobbit, he just wants things to return to normal, but he can't even eat anything! I can sympathise with that part of the experience, as it's similar to something I went through a few years ago; only mine lasted about four or five months, and it wasn't as severe. I wish Aragorn could give him the Elessar stone. And your description of the song had me blinking back tears! I could almost hear it. You make all this seem so very real, Larner. Keep it up! God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
I have several digestive ailments myself, and so also have an idea of what Frodo experiences. Sometimes I go weeks with no problems, and then a week or two with constant nausea and IBS symptoms. (I giggle when I watch the Tom Hanks "Ladykillers" movie.)
Yes, Frodo wants to have everything as it was before, but he is changed, emotionally and physically; it can't be the same.
So glad you could appreciate the song and the use of the Elessar stone. Thanks so much for the review.
"Dorath looked aft at the receding view of the White City. 'I think,' he said thoughtfully, 'we came off better than we might have done.'”
I doubt that Aragorn's justice will be appreciated, but at least he hasn't given Umbar an excuse to be openly hostile. Treaty or no, Umbar will need watching. ~TF
Author's reply
You are right--he was well within his rights to try those found guilty of such actions within his own lands, and so they can't take too much offense--not that those from Umbar have ever needed much reason.
But as you read more of my stories you'll find that Aragorn ends up dealing with the effects of agents from Umbar several times just in the first ten years of his reign.
Glad you enjoyed it. Hope I can get the computers communicating to get the next chapters off my laptop onto the desktop for transfer to the site. I hate computers sometimes!
TithenFeredir
· 25 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
Oh, that was satisfying. I loved Aragorn mentioning Thorongil as if he wasn't himself. I almost pity the Umbari. Almost, but really not. ~TF
Author's reply
Yes, that is fun that Aragorn isn't yet sharing he WAS Thorongil. And the Umbarians aren't terrifically sympathetic people, I fear. Too long allied with Sauron, or so I suspect.
Thanks so much for the review.
TithenFeredir
· 25 November 2005
· Chapter 33: 33: Embassies from Rhovanion
It seems poor Frodo is paying a dear price for defending himself. His frustration is understandable. But he has many friends looking after him, whether or not he appreciates at the moment. ~TF
Author's reply
Oh, dear--I see I never responded to this, TithenFeredir. Please accept my apologies for missing it.
Yes, Frodo is here knowing the pain of his hand aching so badly after having to strike the fool; to have ones dominant hand so damaged and vulnerable must have been extraordinarily difficult at the time. And he was fortunate to be surrounded by all the love he now knows.
I think Minss Tirith is gald to see the people from Umbar leave. I bet Wasnior is glad to be leaving too, not a good trip for him. Even his servants were out to see what they could get.
Author's reply
Yes, this trip has managed to show that those who came from Umbar are not precisely the best that country might have sent. And to find he couldn't trust his own servants must have been the icing on the already bitter cake.
Thanks so much for the response. It may take a day or two to get the next chapter posted, for the computers aren't talking well together and I'm having major problems transferring files. Gads, I hate computers sometimes.
*heavy sigh* Oh dear me! How I do pity that unfortunate midwife who must abide that horrible Angrapain for such a length of time! I wouldn't change places with her for the world! Well, at least he's taken care of, and somehow I don't think it would have settled well with the amazingly merciful Frodo for even this despicable one to be executed. I don't know why it should bother anyone, but even I wouldn't have been entirely satisfied. Goodness, I don't know what punishment I would have ordered for him. This was excellently done, and you show Aragorn's mercy beautifully. God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
If Aragorn chose her, I suspect she's one who can handle even Angrapain well. It would be interesting, however, to see how things work out in the end, although this story doesn't go that far.
And both Frodo and Aragorn would prefer to allow folks to attempt to redeem themselves, I think.
Thanks for the response, Galadriel.
Linda Hoyland
· 25 November 2005
· Chapter 35: 35: Justice toward Umbar
The cheek of Angrapain to ask so many questions !I feel it rather unfair on the poor midwife and her patients to be lumbered with him.
I don't think ARagorn will have much trouble from Umbar in future !
Author's reply
Umbar itself might not be necessarily a problem to Aragorn, but some of its citizens will continue to plague Gondor and her King over the years as you already know from The King's Commission and Lesser Ring.
Thanks so much for the response. Computer problems again, so it may take a few days to get things working right for the next chapter posting.
Raksha The Demon
· 24 November 2005
· Chapter 35: 35: Justice toward Umbar
I don't blame Frodo for leaving; being questioned by sleazy Angrypain about hobbit mating practices strikes me as almost as bad as marching in disguise with orcs in Mordor.
I feel rather sorry for the Arnorian midwife who will soon be afflicted with said sleaze's constant servitude for several years. Not to mention her patients - having the birth of one's child attended by a branded Degenerate - yuck. Hopefully Angrypain will keep his mouth shut and try to be useful.
The Umbari delegation really did do better than they might have hoped, and got off better than they deserved!
Author's reply
Angrapain will be learning about how sex affects and OUGHT to affect folks, more than he ever dreamed. And I think the midwife chosen by Aragorn will make certain he does what he's told and keeps silent and learns. Will be tough on him, though.
grumpy
· 24 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
Wasnoir finally gets his audience with the king, By now I bet he wishs he never came. But the king did give him the information he was looking for, about what happen in the war, and about his ships.
Now on to what happens with Angrapain.
Author's reply
Yes, Wasnior finds out the information he'd wished for, but not necessarily in the manner in which he'd expected to get it. And they won't get their ships back.
He'll soon have more reason to be glad to be leaving Gondor, I think.
Well - Wasnior's delegation have learnt a thing or two! And Angrapain and Belladon have the opportunity to learn a few more, which can only be a good thing.
Very perceptive of Pippin to know that this is a moment when Frodo would prefer to speak to Gandalf - or an elf. An indication, in a way, that he and Merry are mature enough to deal with the problem of Frodo and his well-being.
Author's reply
Yes, they have much opportunity to learn; and Wasnior now has an idea of just how formidable the new order in Gondor is, and a good deal of the mettle and sagacity of its new king.
And, yes, Pippin is now behaving as an adult, with an adult's appreciation of what his cousin needs. So glad you approve.