demeter d
· 24 November 2005
· Chapter 35: 35: Justice toward Umbar
"I think, we came off better than we might have done." Indeed! I suspect they will return home with a great respect for Gondor and her new king! Very well done.
Author's reply
Yes, they have a great deal more respect than they did--although the question of whether it's respect or out and out terror might yet need to be answered! Heh! They've definitely realized the new King of Gondor is NOT to be trifled with or underestimated.
Thanks for the compliment!
I can't believe that Frodo actually said that out loud! The pain he will end up suffering from admitting that out loud to a room full of people will haunt him for a long time. Of course, it will just add to all of the other things he is having to deal with. Pippin often surprises me with his perception - how he knew that Frodo wouldn't want him or anyone else right then. Eomer and Aragorn both thought that Frodo needed his cousins and Sam, but Pippin knew the truth.
Interesting sentence for Angrapain, having to serve with a midwife! if I was her, I'm not sure I would want to be around him! :) But I'm sure that Aragorn knows her quite well and knows what she is capable of dealing with. It amazes me that he thought he could get away with it because he was in a different land... not that he said it exactly like that, but he couldn't believe he would receive a sentence like that because he was from a different country.
This line was perfect: 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.”
They did indeed! :)
Author's reply
Being a painfully honest Hobbit most of the time can be a drawback, as I believe Frodo is realizing at the moment. But I think he truly felt that Angrapain needed to know just what he felt about his behavior and perversions. But he couldn't tell this to Angrapain, unfortunately, without admitting it to all, which brought back to mind all that the Ring had robbed him of.
And both Merry and Pippin tended to surprise all at times with their wisdom. Pippin may be careless of the consequences of many acts, but knows his cousin well and is realizing when Frodo is hurting worst and won't easily accept comfort.
Many folk convince themselves they don't have to follow the laws of the land they are visiting, unfortunately, which has led to the image of the "Ugly American" and the overwhelming tourist from any land who can't understand why things aren't done the way they are at home.
As for Dorath's parting line--it just fit! Glad you appreciated it!
That they did. Aragorn was also far more merciful of Angrapain that I would have been. If that had been me, he would have become intimately knowledgable of the blade of Anduril, but I guess that's what makes Aragorn the merciful King he is. Interesting sentence for Angrapain though. He's not going to like that at all and I'm sure he will also be closely watched by the Rangers of Arnor.
Okay...Now that we've got all of this nasty Umbarian business taken care of, could we pretty please be guests at a Royal Wedding Larner m'dear? Hmmm? Pretty, pretty please!?! :oD
Looking forward to the next chapter as always. :o)
Author's reply
It appears those who wish to see Angrapain on the business end of knife, sword, or axe is pretty great. Sorry--almost--I didn't indulge you.
As for the Royal Wedding--it is coming, but is still a bit in the future.
Yay! I caught up...
Love the story soooo much! *Drool* *faint* *is magically revived*
Oh btw...
I'm a Thespian. So my competition is my one-act play competition (I’m one of the lead characters) which takes place December 2-3rd.
Then in January I have Individual Events competition... where I shall be performing two contrasting monologues.
If I get superior at either event I shall go on to state competition!
*hopesandprays*
Well love ya lots and keep up the great work!
--Katie
Author's reply
I did a monologue from Saint Joan and then one from Richard the Third, both of which I did well in back when I was in high school. Good luck. Never got into a drama competition.
Glad you are all caught up once again, and that you are enjoying what you are reading. Thanks for letting me know you're there.
I was looking forward to the trial, but think Angrypain got off way too easy! I agree with Kitty (I think it was her) that this guy stirs the basest instincts. I got excited when beheading was mentioned then just to follow a midwife around - more of a punishment for her than him I would think, but I understand why you are doing it. And of course I love that he's getting branded. I applaud you for the courage to call homosexuality was it is and those that practice it what they are. More power to you on that!
Author's reply
Actually, Antane, it's not homosexuality that bothers me so much as the assumption that because people are emotionally close they must have a sexual relationship on top of it, particularly here in Tolkien's world. To be honest, I have no problems with others who have loving relationships where they are deeply committed to one another, whether they are homosexual or heterosexual in the real world--although personally I would not have a same-sex relationship of that kind. But Tolkien didn't write Middle Earth that way--his characters are, for the most part, too idealized to indulge in homosexuality; and I cannot see either Sam or Aragorn go from a slash relationship with Frodo or Legolas or whoever to a loving marriage to the women they've obviously loved and committed themselves to emotionally since long before the quest.
It's why I write Frodo being troubled by the way the Ring wants him to express sexuality--as a predator or as a dominating b******. He doesn't have that personality, and thus refuses to play the game the Ring would set for him--and so in revenge the Ring does its best to shut down Frodo's sexual awareness except for those times he might be vulnerable to twisting the sexual urge, at which time HE shuts it down himself, probably subconsciously. He has high standards for himself and will not compromise them.
But what Angrapain indulges in isn't a loving relationship--it is predatory in nature and is probably more closely akin to pedophilia than homosexuality; and it is an attraction not so much to the particular person as to the perceived power the person is believed to be able to wield. If he saw Aragorn as likely to respond to his advances he'd probably being going after him; but Aragorn is too obviously capable. So, he goes after the ones he sees as vulnerable....
The branding is to indicate he is a sexual predator and to let those who may find him wandering around unsupervised know this guy has a potential death sentence hanging over his head if he puts a toe out of line.
I think this chapter deserves a 'wow' and Dorath neatly sums it up in that last sentence.
My heart bleeds for Frodo. Facing your attacker can be theraputic but the attitude and blindness of Angrapain to his effect on others is the reason why the police find it difficult to bring prosocutions for indecent assult and rape. Facing your attacker and reliving the whole event might be more hurtful than healing.
Author's reply
You have nailed it properly, Harrowcat. Plus Frodo has the humiliation of letting people know what kind of sexual fantasies the Ring has fed to him for years and is reliving the realization why he hasn't been able to marry and settle down as he'd always hoped. He's consciously facing how the Ring has scoured away part of his chance to fulfill a normal family life for himself.
For most of those I've dealt with who lost their families at such a young age, the desire to build a happy family for themselves is often extraordinarily strong.
Andrea
· 23 November 2005
· Chapter 35: 35: Justice toward Umbar
I think it cost Frodo the last of his strenght to speak to Angrapain about the Ring! Pippin's remark to Aragorn is very fitting:
"You cannot begin to understand what it cost him to say what he just did."
The King's judgement is wise. Angrapain helping the midwife and Belladon working in the quarries will hopefully make them see things from a different perspective.
But the worst part of the punishment is the branding. Their brands will remain forever, regardless of the fact that people may change. I don't know if these two really can change, but the possibility remains. No one knows this better than Frodo. His final pity towards Gollum saved his life - and Middle Earth!
I would really like to see Frodo's reaction on this judgement.
Author's reply
You will see Frodo's reaction to the judgments, once he knows of them. But they are indeed intended to force the two malefactors to see the world from a different perspective.
The brands will indeed last their lifetimes, but serve to mark them as ones to be avoided by normal folk and to be taken as quickly as possible by any Rangers or Guardsmen or men at arms throughout the realm if they are seen anywhere save where they belong so that they can be held while questions are sent as to what is to be done with them. Very harsh, but slightly more than just an object lesson.
I've been so busy this week I've been diving in and out, reading and rushing off, but now I can review. The last three chapters have been so detailed and fascinating to read, but I feel so sorry for poor Frodo, trying to hide his symptoms and resenting his own weakness.
I love all the detail when Aragorn hears these cases, and how he always manages to divine the truth and force the prisoners to condemn themselves. His judgements are so apt too - and I was tickled by the threat to ask Frodo to behead Angrapain! I reckon Sam might be willing to oblige on Frodo's behalf - and Gimli would be delighted!
Author's reply
Oh, I think Gimli would have no problem at all in beheading Angrapain--he might even pay for the privilege!
So glad you appreciate how Aragorn gets these folk to display exactly how self-centered they are. That is the true mark of the criminal mind, that they are usually totally self-obsessed. And thanks for the three-in-one review!
Well, Angrapain certainly made the right impression! First he’s not willing to tidy himself and then he complains because he wasn’t allowed to let the King wait because he wasn’t washed and combed! *shakes head*
Poor Frodo! No wonder he had to leave after hearing what Angrapain said and how he tried to twist his own deeds! It must have been very painful for Frodo to repeat and hear all this. Oh, and it was so thoughtful of Éomer and Aragorn to give Merry and Pippin leave at once, even if they did not go.
Uh ... before Angrapain is send to Arnor, maybe you could lend him to your readers for some time? I’d *love* to give him a sound thrashing for being so rude to Frodo, and doubt I am the only one! I am sure when we are finished with him he will be very sorry to ever have laid eyes on Frodo! Honestly, this man stirs my basest instincts!
Well, I suppose the Umbarians have learned it will not do their own land any good to challenge King Aragorn Elessar Telcontar! I’d like to watch Wasnior and the remaining Lords of Umbar to give the treaty to Lord Marcipor *eg* And Dorath was right in the end – they were lucky to get away after all. After reading this, I’m quite amazed Wasnior acted as ambassador in „Lesser ring“! I doubt I would’ve had been brave enough to return to Gondor after that!
Author's reply
Oh, Wasnior came the second time with the embassy from Umbar in "The King's Commission" as well, so he's not exactly an unknown. Thought I'd give him his introduction to the new regime here, though.
You can do what you please with Angrapain--I doubt the midwife will complain, after all.
And facing Angrapain here and seeing him fully revealed as the degenerate he is, and admitting how the Ring sought to make him much the same must have been a terrible admission for Frodo to make. I, too, am proud of the two Kings, and also of Merry and Pippin for recognizing Frodo would not wish them by him right then. Some things you don't want your younger cousins by you when dealing with the mixed emotions tied to them, I think.
Thanks so much for the comments.
Kitty
· 23 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
This chapter was such fun! I truly enjoyed the way Aragorn dealt with the Umbarians and spies! He made it very clear he knew the excuses for what they were concerning the reasons for the Umbarians to visit Gondor. Aragorn’s way to hear the witnesses separetely to prove the truth was skillful for they couldn’t doubt the evidence, couldn’t they? Not to mention the long list of crimes of their own people he gave them. Aragorn can be quite intimidating, and I wouldn’t be in the place of the spies and Umbarians! One can’t argue with Aragorn in this situation, even less if one knows so well he has every reason to be angry.
The interrogation of the spies was equally interesting and well done, and I thought their punishment very appropriate. Aragorn made it quite clear he will not tolerate their betrayal, but most of them have the chance to redeem themselves and start a new life after the end of their punishment. He proved to be very just.
As for your last reply: I am very sorry to hear you’ve stomach problems, too, and can only hope it is not as bad as Frodo’s and you’re getting better. If I could, I would send Aragorn to you to help you, but sadly that is not possible.
And you’re right about the other reviews – it is entertaining and often interesting to read them all. I do it as often as I have the time and I’m sometimes amazed how many different parts of a chapter others note and comment about. It is sometimes a quite complex look at a story, particularly together with the replys of the authors. I’ve learned a lot this way – not only about the stories and the ideas of the authors, but about Tolkien and earlier customs and so on, too. That’s one of the reasons I love the SoA review/reply system so much!
Author's reply
Aragorn is clearing out the backlog in the prison, putting folk on notice that denouncing neighbors just cuz isn't going to be tolerated, and is displaying his ability to get to the bottom of the matter with each one. Those attending are realizing this one has public trials, will get information from as many as possible, and metes out appropriate justice, with indeed the possibility of redemption in the end. And I agree about him being intimidating. He's been readying for this job for a long time, and is letting all see he can and will flex his mental as well as his physical muscle.
Yes, have known stomach problems for years, but it's little enough in light of what others know. Appreciate the thought, believe me.
And glad you, too, find the interchange between readers and authors here enjoyable and educational. I've learned a good deal, I know.
French Pony
· 23 November 2005
· Chapter 35: 35: Justice toward Umbar
Wow. Aragorn basically made Angrapain put himself on trial. Clever, clever. Tried and convicted, and pretty much by his own hand. That's just diabolical.
The branding must be something left over from Gondor's justice system under the Stewards, I guess. But the thing with assisting the midwife is intriguing. I can't imagine that the midwife will be massively thrilled to have old Angrapain traipsing along after her, unskilled and male as he is. But it will be equally unpleasant for Angrapain.
Author's reply
Yes, when possible Aragorn likes to have those who come before them pronounce their own dooms. But then he's lived among Elves and has learned deviousness and to convince folk to reveal their deepest selves from his mentors. Glad you approve.
Am not certain how much branding would be only a holdover from the Stewards. I have visited Lancaster Castle and the prison and courtroom there, one which has been used for hundreds of years. In the dock on one side is a staple on the back wall of the open box that forms it. The hand of one convicted of theft was place through that staple, and he was then branded on it or the forearm to display ever after that he'd been convicted of theft; and there were specific brands for other crimes as well. It was why in England one hand was laid on the Bible and the other raised, to show this person had no criminal history to hide. It is possible such penalties would be common in Gondor as well; and the branding on the forehead would mark the one so branded easily as one whose life is forfeit if he leaves his assignment.
And, no, a midwife wouldn't be particularly pleased to have such as Angrapain; but who better to show him the consequences of both licit and illicit sex?
Five years assisting a midwife? If that doesn't open his eyes, there is nothing else in the world that will. And a slaver to spend five years in hard labor? Also very fitting. I applaud you and your Aragorn, for wise justice handed down promptly and perfectly.
Poor Frodo. *sigh*
Author's reply
So glad you approve. I do think Aragorn would be the first to wish for the punishment to fit the crime. Now Angrapain will see births, the effects of rapes and botched abortions, joy and delight as a result of proper sexual unions, grief and pain when the child is lost, the ambivilance that accompanies the unwanted child, and probably the effects of sexually transmitted diseases as well. It will be enlightening to one who has always loved or forced and then forgotten.
And for the slaver to work much as a slave would be most fitting and enlightening as well.
Again, am pleased you approve of the King's justice.
And for Frodo to admit what he has in a public forum such as this must be highly embarrassing.
Radbooks
· 23 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
Wasnior is nothing if not... gutsy or bold or else just plain stupid to stand there and ask to get his fleet back after Umbar was attacking Gondor! How anyone would have the nerve to do that is beyond me, but then I guess I don't have a mind like that. :) And trying to get by with saying they had come to give Aragorn their congratulations was funny too, dishonesty never pays off and then to have to stand there and be humilated. Lord Marcipor is not going to be real happy with him, but then he does end up sticking around later, so I guess he doesn't get real upset.
I was glad to see Aragorn's justice for the spies. Of course, I knew he would be, but I felt so sorry for some of those people - the woman and the bookseller. I know you always have a choice, but it's sometimes so desperately hard to do the right thing when you are in the middle of a situation like that and I know that Aragorn can see through to their hearts and know the truth about them.
Can't wait to see what happens to Angrapain!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Author's reply
Wasnior has been charged in part to find out what happened to their fleet and to try to regain at least some ships from it if possible. He has little enough to lose by not trying to demand the return of it, save his dignity.
Trying to brazen the situation out when his country has done NONE of the actions usually taken when looking at a change in regime was stupid, but also, I suppose understandable; telling the truth at the end was, in the face of the King Elessar's knowledge of the nature of those of Umbar and his ability to read the hearts of those before him, both desperate and wise; and only such an action, I think, would motivate Aragorn to accept him in the end as a recurring envoy from Umbar. And I think Marcipor will be wise enough to accept this after the disastrous embassy he sends a few years later while Ruvemir son of Mardil is recovering from pneumonia in the Houses of Healing.
As for those recruited as spies--I truly think Aragorn would take each on a case by case basis, realizing when coersion more than inner pride or hope for gain would be active, giving each a sentence of servitude and a chance to live a new life elsewhere where the shame of their actions in the past would be least likely to come back to haunt him or her save for those who were motivated solely by greed for money and/or power. The servant from Anorien, who was betraying his rightful lord and people, would be the one to earn a death sentence. And I don't think he'd take well to those who would denounce neighbors out of either spite, desire for gain or revenge, or as a result of overactive imaginations.
Linda Hoyland
· 23 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
Aragorn is just too clever for those who think they can outwit him ,they are in for a nasty surprise !Whoever would have thought there were so many spies in Gondor ?I will be very interested to see the punishment of the ringleaders.
Author's reply
I would think each enemy nation would try to have spies present in Gondor, and probably a fair number of them in or near the capitol, Dol Amroth, and Osgiliath as well as the border with Rohan. It pays to try to keep abreast of what the opposition is doing, after all. That a number would be recruited from within the populace of Gondor while others would be outsiders brought in for the purpose seemed logical. Some would be wanted to watch policy and legislation and perhaps to help shape it; others to watch troop movements; still others to watch various lords seen as important or possibly corruptible. Those found by Denethor and now by Aragorn's own efforts are probably just the tip of the iceberg.
But Aragorn has been taught by the best to question effectively, and in common with his new Steward easily sees to the heart of those facing him. It is part of what ends up making this pair so effective in their joint rule of Gondor, I think.
Tigger
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
Things are about to get much worse for Wasnior and the Umbarian party. Great take on the early days of Aragorn's reign and how his mercy would go a long way towards showing the nobles of Gondor this would be a much different rule than that of Denethor's. Loved how he stripped Wasnior's defences one by one.
And now it's Angrapain's turn in front of Aragorn. This isn't going to be good for him or for the rest of them from Umbar.
Looking forward to the next chapter!!
Author's reply
You are righte--the embassy from Umbar isn't going well for them, and is about to get worse. And they are going to then have to carry home Aragorn's proposed treaty to present to Marcipor and his Council, although that may be easier than having your pretences stripped away before those gathered in the Hall of Kings.
Hope you appreciate the judgment meted out to those from Umbar who have flouted the rules and conventions.
Queen Galadriel
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
Larner! Is that supposed to be a cliff-hanger? Well, it is, or pretty near anyway. You are so good at matters of the royal court and judgement, and all business concerning politics! I wish I was.
Frodo so obviously needs some kind of help. I can't quite put my finger on it...reassurance? But what reassurance can restore his sense of worth? I don't believe in too much self-esteem to the point of arrogance, but this is not good for his body or mind. He needs physical rest as well, and then a day away from it all...Oh! Maybe that's what I'll do now, give it to them. I can't wait to see Angrapain's trial! Namarie, and God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
Yes, Frodo needs physical rest, and has actually had quite some time for it; but he also feels, for his own feelings of well-being, to appear competent and capable--a hard thing to do when you're feeling ill a good part of the time. And the physical weakness works against the self-esteem issue.
Angrapain's trial is coming up next. Didn't want to put too much all into just one chapter. This one is one of the longer ones for this particular story.
Antane
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
Indeed through the grace of God was the Quest accomplished. Thank you for mentioning that. I ache for Frodo, poor, dear hobbit...
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
All ache for Frodo equally, including, I think, the Creator Himself.
Glad you appreciate the acknowledgment.
harrowcat
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
First, mea culpa! Caught red handed. So, just what is the penalty for gulping my reading ration yet again? I promise that I do come back and read more slowly and carefully but I don't review a chapter twice, (well not often anyway). *sheepish grin* And there I was thinking that I had caught clever Larner out! I ought to have known better. It is just that I get so excited by what I am reading and want to give you my first impressions before I get all shy about putting stuff 'out there' for other people to read.
Truth be told I am rather glad that I can throw myself on your mercy rather than face the King's justice when he is in such a stern mood! Just and fair but not too many smiles in this chapter and even fewer, I fear, when Angrapain appears.
A great King through all this though. Another question if I may? And please shoot me down in flames if I have missed something obvious. I know that we are near the beginning of Aragorn's reign but is the King going to have to hear and try every case or misdeamenor, big and small, in the realms? If so it is going to keep him pretty busy unless human nature is very law-abiding in Gondor. Am I right in thinking that the Stewards will be kept busy judging lesser crimes and petitions but with everyone having recourse to 'the King's justice'? Did Tolkien say anything on this? Or perhaps you and Lindelea, (and maybe others too,) could collaborate on the justice systems of ME!!?!
See what I mean when I say you get my first reactions? If I were to re-read the above I would delete at least half of it as nonsense!
And oh Frodo. Low self esteem can be very hard to live with even when you love the person very dearly indeed. It is so awful to feel so helpless in the face of, seeming, illogic. Much worse for the person going through the suffering I know and seeing the suffering you cause others when you can't put on a 'happy face' just adds to the burden you carry. Another vicious circle.
Author's reply
First, the justice system; I would think most cases would be heard by the local lords first, and that the appeals would wind their way to the King's court.
For matters of national security and the doings of guests to the realm and those who serve in the Citadel itself, as well as matters involving particularly higher lords of the realm, I believe the King's court would be where such matters would be heard. Does this seem reasonable?
I had to go back and reread the chapter myself to make certain I had indeed shown them smoking on the balcony; I didn't think Aragorn, concerned as I've said he was for the lungs of Frodo, Sam, and Pippin, would smoke in a closed room where they will be in a few hours' time.
And Frodo doesn't like the idea of being a burden himself, isn't accustomed to being dependent instead of the competent one all others have been used to consulting and looking to, and is frustrated by having everyone concerned about him. Plus, having been private in nature much of his life, and particularly since coming to Bag End, Frodo's not going to like having his physical and emotional health the major topic of conversation for the entire dual realm of Gondor and Arnor, and is going to do his best to try to make himself appear healthy as soon as he can.
But, speaking from experience, watching someone who's always been highly competent and independent lose health and independence and feelings of self-worth is devastating. This isn't much easier on those who love Frodo than it is for Frodo himself.
Andrea
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 33: 33: Embassies from Rhovanion
What a terrible relapse!
It must be frustrating not to be able to eat what you want and to have to stop every few steps to catch your breath. But Frodo is a stubborn hobbit and he is willing to fight - and to live, for his foremost aim is to return to the Shire, and then ... Well, I think, that he doesn't know clearly, himself!
Right now his condition is far away from trying to return to the Shire and that bothers him. That and the fact that everyone is fussing about him and his health. Poor Frodo, indeed!
Author's reply
Yes, to find one is constantly being fussed about must be terribly frustrating for Frodo. He is not yet healthy enough to travel home, and he's not accustomed to being dependant on others and less than fully competent.
As for what he'll do when he gets home--well, first things first--first build up enough endurance to get there!
Thanks so much for the review.
Dreamflower
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
Oh dear me, *tsk*tsk*tsk* Poor Umbarians--Not!
As always you are so thorough with these examinations, and with the justice being meted out by the King.
I find myself shaking my head at the incredulity of the Umbarians when it comes to the tale of how Mordor was defeated--after all, they did ask. And the evidence of it is right before them. But they seem the sorts who mostly will believe what they want to--unless they are forced by circumstances to believe.
Author's reply
Most people tend to believe mostly what they want to believe rather than necessarily what is true; those from Umbar, having been raised to distrust about anyone, aren't easily going to see that endurance was more important in this quest than might, and that one who is small can have sometimes more endurance than someone who has trained as a warrior all his life.
Anyway, am glad you consider the examination to be thorough--I always felt Aragorn would want a full examination of known facts before making judgments.
French Pony
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
See Aragorn. See Aragorn lay the smackdown on Wasnior. Smackdown, Aragorn, smackdown.
He really knows how to reduce people to little quivering pats of jelly, doesn't he? One thing that Wasnior will surely take back to Umbar with him is that not only does Gondor have a new King, but he is a force to be reckoned with.
And then all those trials, to display the King's justice as a buildup for the big trial. Having Anitra bless the King for mercy is just the final little twist of the knife for Wasnior here.
I think, in general, that you don't need quite as much recapitulation of the end of the War of the Ring as you've been giving. We all know what happened. And I, for one, would much prefer to read more about your characters and their current interactions, because those are massively absorbing.
Author's reply
Aragorn does have a way with him, doesn't he? Anitra feels he is both just and merciful and accepts her sentence easily; I doubt the servant from Anorien feels the same, however. The bookseller probably feels he is getting off lightly; the barber probably feels he's put upon mightily. As for Angrapain--he'll have an unexpected companion in the prison tonight.
That you find the characterizations and interactions so satisfying is reassuring. Sorry that I tend to repeat the outcome of the war so much--but was trying to make it plain to the ones Wasnior is having to deal with.
Thanks so much for your comments.
shirebound
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 34: 34: Audience with Umbar
Amazing detail, as always. What a wise and calm ruler the West now knows. And I do appreciate Aragorn's summary of the Quest, and this:
The King Elessar said quietly, “My Lord Bard, you will learn that the quest cost Lords Frodo and Samwise much, and in Lord Frodo’s case much of his sense of worth. The effects of carrying the Enemy’s Ring have been shown to have been most destructive. It has been painful seeing how deeply into Frodo’s soul It ripped and tore.”
Author's reply
Yes, Aragorn has learned wisdom in the house of Elrond and the woods of Lothlorien, and through much trial throughout Middle Earth.
And am so glad you appreciate Aragorn's estimation of the actions of the Ring.
Bodkin
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 33: 33: Embassies from Rhovanion
In a way, it's quite remarkable that Frodo was willing to leave Minas Tirith and Aragorn. He really seems to need the medical help his friend can offer - and was quite brave / foolhardy to head off back over a long distance to travel home. Although merely being home can be quite helpful in a lot of cases. And hopefully, Elrohir and Elladan will be there along the way to help him. And Elrond, of course, by then.
I like the number of people it takes to get Aragorn. The hobbit called the page and the page spoke to the guard, who woke the valet - it's like the house that Jack built.
Some much better groups of visitors waiting today, though. Good to see some old friends turning up. And to have it made clear that the battles were not confined to Gondor.
Author's reply
Yes, I see the parallels to the nursery rhyme. Quite funny! But it's the way things often go, after all.
Yes, in many ways it might have been better for Frodo to stay in Minas Tirith for his health, both physical and emotional; but Sam won't go without him, and all four are needed to counter the damage Saruman has going on there.
And glad you approve of the delegations from Dale, Erebor, and Mirkwood. Since Tolkien indicated such came to Gondor to honor Aragorn's coronation, I just made them come a few days late.
Certainly those in Umbar need to realize that Sauron's plans of conquest were many sided, and that in the end he was successfully countered on all sides. This was very much a continent-wide war, I think.
Thanks for the comments.
Kitty
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 33: 33: Embassies from Rhovanion
Poor Frodo! It is so frustrating he can't even eat properly - that certainly doesn't improve his strength! And it must be hard to accept he needs help from the others. No wonder he doesn't want the others there to see his weakness, although it is probably for the others equally difficult *not* to be there. Merry put it quite appropriate: “It’s what we came for, Frodo, to be with you when the bad times come.”
Now I am even more angry at Angrapain (I should quit reading the other reviews, or I start calling him Angry pain, too! I love this modification!) because he was the reason Frodo had to hit him and now his hand hurts again.
Although the fact he was knocked senseless by a Perian little over half his height must be wonderfully troubling to the fool. *grin* Oh yes, Aragorn has a point here! I'd say Angrapain is the sort of man who is *very* offended after such an experience! And I can't say I'm sorry *eg*
Author's reply
Yes, Frodo is indeed caught within a vicious cycle, one which will come back to haunt him for the remainder of his life in Middle Earth. Such stomach and intestinal disorders can be so awful--believe me--I live with them, too. And to appear less than competent drives him crazy. He knows he should open up to the others, but it's such a hard thing to do, to admit he has these bouts of stomach ills.
And you're right, Angrapain will always blame the other for what he's done, even when there is no question he himself did what he's upset about.
As for reading other reviews--they are often entertaining and enlightening. Thanks for yours.
harrowcat
· 22 November 2005
· Chapter 33: 33: Embassies from Rhovanion
Oh poor Frodo. He really is in a 'catch 22' situation. He needs good food and plenty of rest without stress but the food only aggravates his stomach thus causing more stress which in turn upsets his stomach more. I suspect that it is a vicious circle that many with long term illness know all too well. I certainly do! Stress, among many other things, raises my blood sugar levels which then stays high due to the anxiety of knowing that it is high!
Loved the waking up scene. *g* Are there ancient pock marks in the door from thrown daggers. Oh no I think I remember you saying something about new doors being hung!
Oh, and how do you sit upwind of pipe-smoke in a closed room? Or was the window open? Or did Legolas sit on the balcony as he doesn't feel the cold? Or was Gandalf directing all smoke to form rings and float up the chimney? :)
Author's reply
Yes, and I know that Catch-22 situation myself. Been there, done that--get upset and the colitis goes crazy and excess acid, then know the upset due to those and get more frustrated which makes the others go crazy....
I think Belveramir has reverted to the manner in which he's awakened warriors in the past and what Hardorn taught him of waking Thorongil so long ago. Doubt Aragorn's throwing daggers, however--just waking to realize where he is by the light of the lamp, then getting up to do what's needed. Although the idea of former warrior kings throwing daggers at that door has me giggling.
As for the smoking--if you'll read it again you'll see Aragorn joined Gandalf and Gimli on the balcony, and Merry followed after them. But Gandalf sending all the smoke to form rings and go up the chimney is a wonderful one! I find I love it.