The Man shuddered. “The Valar defend you!” he murmured, his eyes briefly closed. “You survived that!” He looked at the two of them. “I almost sank to my death there, near a pool where one of my own people seemed to lie. I’d stopped to look in horror--and realized I was mired almost to my waist. I even fell into one of them.” He shook his head. “No wonder you were relieved to reach Ithilien.”
(I love to read about Aragorn's other "lives" in the south. Very realistic, believable details in this chapter.)
How tragically this chapter ends. Poor Frodo. I, like Aragorn, wish for more moments of peace for him.
Author's reply
In part this is inspired by Timmy2222's "Untrodden Path"--a gorgeous story in which Aragorn is saved by drowning in one of the pools in the Dead Marshes after he caught Gollum the first time, and finds himself having to work to save the villagers who help him when they are threatened by orcs.
But Aragorn realizes more of what Frodo has been through and is letting him know that he has reason to know horrible dreams and dark memories. But it is hard for Frodo to let go and accept that it is all right to be less than perfect.
Thanks so much for reading on.
Lindelea
· 1 November 2005
· Chapter 4: 4: Who for Ringbearer?
But no one thought to make any ring of power for Hobbits, for there are no lords as such among you; and so he had not prepared that which you bore to rule your people. Perhaps none but a Hobbit could have carried It to the last to Mordor, much less through it and into the heart of the Mountain itself.
(You know, I never thought of this either, that all the other races of Free Peoples had rings, except for the Hobbits.
Legolas' assessment of the alternatives was very interesting. I'd never imagined him claiming the Quest. I thought the Elves were too wise even to imagine such a thing.
Author's reply
A fellow member of the CouncilofRivendell email group commented on this fact, that Hobbits were among the few races that had no rings made for them, and so I've managed to work it into a couple of stories now. Of course, no rings were made for the great Eagles or for the Ents, either; but I can't see an Ent entering Mordor, much less approaching the mountain; and the great Eagles are on a slightly different plane, apparently.
Had Frodo not taken it, who would have been left? They are already aware that the Ring is working on Boromir and he's not a good candidate; who is left? Doesn't give us a great deal of room for other possible Ringbearers.
I really can't see Gimli with the Ring; but I can see Legolas considering it. Yes, he's an elf; but he's not from Lorien or Rivendell; he's been fighting the Enemy steadily for centuries now; he's actually pretty savvy about the Enemy. I can see him considering it and believing he'll be wise enough to counter the Enemy's arguments used by the Ring.
One can be overconfident of just how wise one is.
I truly doubt Aragorn would accept it, no matter what; he already knows how easily it took his ancestor and doesn't wish to repeat the experiment; and he has to be aware that if he didn't touch the Ring itself Elrond yet was induced to allow Isildur to walk out of the Sammath Naur with it in his hand. I think Aragorn has all too likely an idea of what the Ring might do to himself.
And so it goes.
Glad the tale as I tell it is inspiring new thoughts. Certainly many of the responses have sparked more in me!
TithenFeredir
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 15: 15: First Audience
There is quite a bit of business to take care of. I've never thought about such details. Aragorn shows himself to be very thorough and even-handed in dealing with his subjects. Still, the sacrifice I anticipate has yet to be revealed. Looking forward to the next. ~TF
Author's reply
That sacrifice is, unfortunately, still one not yet spoken.
But the first orders of business are the ones that need to be done--find out who's running the home front and make certain they are likely to be loyal and willing to deal with the new management; let folks know the chain of command; swear in the Stewards and let it be known both realms are of equal interest to the King; get the guardsmen in here and make certain they have sworn their loyalty; then start on the available lords of the realm. Then let folks know that this is a new order, these folk are my friends and are as much responsible for the new state of affairs as I am and as I honor them, you'd best do so as well.
See to it folks are comfortable and let it be known publically that this is a priority for the new King--that his folk be comfortable and secure. Let them see that this new King accepts familiar address from his friends, and takes thought about the details.
It's a new day for Gondor, and the King's lords are beginning to realize just what this means.
Linda Hoyland
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 15: 15: First Audience
You really show the lonliness and responsibilities of kingship in this chapter.Poor Aragorn,he will need his friends in the comng days.I doubt all of Denethor's servants will be easy to deal with !
Author's reply
I suspect strongly there will be confrontations with servants and possibly some of the lesser lords as all realize this is a new administration which is intent on making things better for all in the realm. And those who are rulers do well to surround themselves with folks who are well rooted in reality that they not lose their ability to understand their people.
Glad you appreciate the details so.
shirebound
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 15: 15: First Audience
Wow. I feel as if I was in that room, privileged to be witnessing the first audience of the King. Magnificently written.
Author's reply
Thank you, Shirebound. I'd have loved to have been there in fact, myself. Thanks so much for the joyous response.
French Pony
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 15: 15: First Audience
Delightfully ceremonial. I especially like that the Housekeeper chooses to go with Faramir -- that's got to be giving him warm fuzzies right about now. Aragorn seems to be settling well into the language of Kingship and the announcing of everything that he does.
Author's reply
I find myself if Lord Erestor didn't give young Estel lessons in proper language for making kingly pronouncements. But these would be among the first orders of business, to be assured everyone knows where he stands and how his household will be ordered; who his friends are and how they are to be reverenced; that the guards and captains begin to appreciate him as the captain in chief; and that his Stewards are recognized as equal to one another, indicating both realms are expected to be treated similarly.
And to know that the housekeeper's comfort will stay with him must indeed be giving Faramir comfort right now.
Thanks so much for the quick response.
TithenFeredir
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 14: 14: The King's Procession
Oh, I think I know the sacrifice you are foreshadowing. Ow. Will wait for the next chapter to see. ~TF
Author's reply
And in that sacrifice the question is who is it who offers the most? The peoples of Middle Earth? Aragorn? Samwise? Meriadoc or Peregrin? Or Frodo himself?
That a difficulty with living sacrifices--all too often they draw from so many.
Lily
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 13: 13: Party of Princes, and a King Made
Merry, my friend, you look magnificent!”
It's not without reason that Merry is called the Magnificent.
This chapter makes me feel very proud of the hobbits - including the Gaffer.
Author's reply
Ah, indeed, Lily! And Merry has been magnificent as well as looking it! (And I couldn't help but write this considering Billy Boyd's laughter about who looked the sexiest in his uniform, you know.
And all of the Hobbits are worthy of praise, including the Gaffer for raising such a fine son and giving him so much source material for his growing wisdom.
So glad you enjoyed this one, Lily.
Lindelea
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 3: 3: Feast Not Enjoyed
Iorhael--be practical. You and Sam are not the only ones receiving light meals and soft foods. Look about you--that soldier with the bandaged jaw--he’s getting only broth, while that one over there with his belly wrapped is receiving the same. They are feeding thousands here, and have had to bring meat or cattle here from the other side of the River. Would you deny someone else the food you wish to have before you--food that you could not eat anyway--just to satisfy your own pride?
(You know, I never thought of this, but it makes perfect sense! There would have been convalescents at the feast, and they would have had special consideration.)
The discussion of Frodo's loss of innocence, and the other effects of the Ring's attempt at domination, was fascinating, but chilling and sad at the same time. After all, sexuality in its purest form, when not twisted to selfish use, is about re-creation, fertility, flowering and fruiting, and all the joy and pleasure inherent in creativity. To see Frodo realise how scarred, battered, even twisted he remains as a result of bearing the Ring is shattering.
Author's reply
Yes, there would have been many healing at the feast, and I like to think that Frodo would begin identifying with them rather quickly, whether the one who argues with him is his deepest self or a Maia's thought or someone perhaps even greater. As so far Frodo still doesn't know, that question, at least, remains moot.
It is now that Frodo truly begins to appreciate just how deeply the Ring has scarred him, and how quickly after receiving it this began to happen. In "The Ties of Family" the Ring stole his right to dance before others from him; he's probably realized from time to time for years something had stolen his sexuality from him; he's now appreciating HOW that was done and WHY it was done. Perhaps for the first time he's appreciating that it has stolen also his innocence, but is not yet fully aware that he has received the rightful compensation for that--increased sensitivity and compassion and an enlarged ability to seek healing for others. One must truly lose innocence to fully appreciate those sensibilities. But to retain virginity at such a cost, to have that not be a proper offering but a right wrested from him by the twisted will of the Ring, must have been among the worst of blows for such as Frodo.
And he's beginning to see the pockets of resentment the Ring has sown into his soul.
grumpy
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 14: 14: The King's Procession
So this is when Frodo got his vision of the white tree and Arwin. And Sam means to get Bag End back for Frodo. I am glad that Aragorn and Faramir are getting along so well. Poor Eomer does not have a clue about Faramir and Eowyn, well there is the mantle.
Author's reply
I think Eomer is beginning to understand, and that there was more reason for Eowyn to refuse to cross the River than just disappointment that Aragorn himself did not call for her. However, I think he will accept it in good grace once he thinks of it.
Yes, this is the source of the drawing Frodo did for Master Iorhael of the shop for artists' supplies. I thought that question could be well answered now.
And now that it appears the Hobbit will be able to return home, Sam, Merry and Pippin will be starting their new conspiracy, hoping to help add to Frodo's healing.
grumpy
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 13: 13: Party of Princes, and a King Made
Great chapter on the crowning of the king. Your discription of how they all all spruced up for the occassion, was great. Hardorn saying that Halbarad would be watching with pride. I had to laugh at Aragorn's saying that Minas Tirith was rather pretty.
Author's reply
I think all who'd loved Aragorn who'd passed over the River would be watching in joy and pride that day, and watching all involved, even the most silent of the three sons of Halbaleg (in my version of the story, at least).
And am so glad you appreciated the details, including the one that got Frodo to laugh.
Thanks so much for the feedback.
grumpy
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 13: 13: Party of Princes, and a King Made
Great chapter on the crowning of the king. Your discription of how they all all spruced up for the occassion, was great. Hardorn saying that Halbarad would be watching with pride. I had to laugh at Aragorn's saying that Minas Tirith was rather pretty.
Author's reply
Ooh, another one I missed somehow.
Yes, this is the day to appear in bright apparel and for all to rejoice and appear at their best.
And I think that Aragorn would wish for Frodo to be able to laugh again, and with this understatement he was able to get at least one out of him.
So glad you keep giving me indications of what I do right!
grumpy
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 12: 12: Camp on the Pelennor
Galador is in for quite a ride, trying to figure out the ways of the new king. I liked it when he wondered about heirs, as Aragorn is 88 years old, and Aragorn told him that he retained the ability. Loved the twins, and the comment about Isildur's whistling.
Author's reply
I love to think that those so long ago had some simple, MORTAL accomplishments, more than just being superb warriors and all, and that at least ONE of them could whistle. My whistling was never good, but any more it's nonexistent.
And there would be concern about having a new King but not perhaps him being capable of begetting an heir. I think it would be a question of importance to the realm.
Glad you enjoyed the images.
Kitty
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 14: 14: The King's Procession
It’s so thoughtful of Aragorn to ask for the ponies! He certainly thinks a lot about necessities and does what he can to aid others.
It’s truly sweet of Sam to want to buy Bag End back for Frodo! Luckily he didn’t need to spend any coin for this.
Ah, so Sam and the others were aware of Lotho’s cheating with the contracts even before they left the Shire? It could’ve been interesting to know how the Thain and Master and Mayor would’ve had acted about this as soon as the Travellers came back and the ruffians were thrown out and not longer able to back up Lotho. I wonder if it would’ve been made any difference if Lotho was still alive, and I have to admit I would’ve enjoyed to see them deal with Lotho under these circumstances *eg*
I loved the conversation between Aragorn and Faramir. They’re both quite skilled in changing the topic, aren’t they? *grins* No wonder they are later able to manipulate their Council so well! And the little gesture at the end of their conversation was touching. I am glad they get along so well with each other.
And now we know why Frodo was able to draw the picture with Arwen’s face in the White Tree even before he knew about the wedding officially. Quite useful vision ;-)
Wonderful chapter, as always!
Author's reply
Knowing that Frodo's recovery is taking longer than their own, I suspect that Sam, Merry, and Pippin wish to do anything to help him feel more comfortable and happier, although whether anyone more than the Master and Merry were aware of the questionable contracts being put forth by Lotho is yet questionable. However, he's probably already told the other two this might be the type of leverage they'll need to use to get Lotho out of Bag End.
It would be interesting indeed to have seen what kind of justice the Shire would have wrung from Lotho Sackville-Baggins.
And foresight is indeed a wonderful gift at times, particularly when it brings such images as this.
Bodkin
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 14: 14: The King's Procession
That ride up through the city must have been hard - so much attention. But they dealt with it well.
Nice tie-in with Lotho's debatable legal dealings - and more background on the hobbits. And good to see the bond between Faramir and Aragorn beginning to develop. And the symbolism with the tree, too.
Author's reply
Yes, we are already building a good working relationship and budding friendship between Aragorn and Faramir.
It must be odd for Aragorn, as long-lived as he proved, to go through so many friendships over the years, and to now have so many close ones building with so many diverse individuals. But the one with Faramir must have been particularly satisfying for him, to see the promise he'd seen in Faramir's father, but untouched by envy, doubt, and hubris.
And it's time Aragorn begins to see the Hobbits in terms of their roles among their own folk, and the relationships there.
So glad you like it, Bodkin.
harrowcat
· 31 October 2005
· Chapter 14: 14: The King's Procession
Another perfect chapter Larner! But then you are dealing with a part of the tale that I really enjoyed.
The meeting between Faramir and Frodo and Sam was lovely. Can we look forward to a longer conversation? And I am dying to hear Eomer's opinion of Faramir's wedding plans!
Every time you mention foresight and fore-shadow things like the picture with the face of Arwen in it's branches I get a shiver of delight down my spine. I don't know how you keep track of all these plot-threads and weave them so skillfully but the patterns they make are truly beautiful.
Now, just who is it that initiates the plea to the Valar to let Frodo go to the undying lands for healing? Gandalf perhaps?
Author's reply
Sometimes it's difficult to remember everyone who ought to be involved in a particular scene, but I do try to keep it all straight. Now and then I do find myself having to go back and edit some, though, which can be embarrassing.
I wanted to explore how Frodo got the idea for the picture that he gave to Master Iorhael and that that worthy left to Ruvemir. I would think this would be a lovely reason for its images to be in Frodo's mind.
As for who initiates the plea to the Valar, I think tradition has set that in the lap of the Lady Arwen, although I am certain that Elrond, Galadriel, Glorfindel, Elrohir and Elladan, and Legolas were there backing it up from the beginning, with the agreement of a particular Maia, and probably the prayerful desires of a King as well.
Linda Hoyland
· 30 October 2005
· Chapter 14: 14: The King's Procession
You write such lovely moments in your stories ! I especially enjoyed the scene for Aragorn and Faramir and the brotherly gesture and the scene at the White Tree,just beautiful.
Thank you so much for your kind review of my story.You are right that Elbeth would indeed eventually be in danger from the traitors.
Author's reply
I truly think that when he came to Gondor Thorongil found himself drawn to Denethor; that he would still bear the disappointment that the friendship failed I think would be probable. To find now that level of friendship with Faramir must be heartening, and to find the acceptance of the King must be healing for Faramir as well.
And the White Tree is the symbol of the health of the line of Kings for the realm--that Frodo would be sensitive to it seemed natural as well; and I so wanted to find out how he was inspired to do the drawing that later hangs on the wall of Ruvemir's dining room.
French Pony
· 30 October 2005
· Chapter 14: 14: The King's Procession
Hobbit civil law! That's entertainment. I like that the younger hobbits are healed enough to be thinking about ordinary legal matters back home -- let them dwell on it now, for we all know what they're actually going to find when they get home. But it's nice to see them thinking about home and their future. Now they're sure they'll have one, so they can start thinking about it again.
And Faramir's redirection was really nicely done. Too bad Aragorn was waiting for it. It seems like Faramir has a good network of friends and soon-to-be-family all falling into place around him. He deserves it.
Author's reply
Yes, Faramir deserves all the good he can get. And he's facing a master when he tries to redirect Aragorn. After all, Aragorn probably perfected that art long ago when hiding his past when he served as Thorongil here in Minas Tirith.
I, too, like to think that it had finally come time for the Hobbits to begin to think on going home. Up till now there was too much happening, too much insecurity about what might or might not happen and all. Merry is with Sam looking forward to trying to help restore Frodo's sense of security, and is able to begin thinking of how they can get Bag End back for him. And finally Aragorn has a chance to realize that these folk truly had lives they abandoned to come out of the Shire with the Ring.
So glad you appreciate this chapter.
Dreamflower
· 30 October 2005
· Chapter 14: 14: The King's Procession
Oh, I love the account of the procession into the City, and the bit with the ponies was very well done, for though I'd not thought of it, of course Aragorn had had little chance to see how well Frodo and Sam could ride while they were together on the Quest.
I also liked the little revelation from Merry about the plan to buy Bag End back from the S.-B.s; it's a very plausible scenario, and if Saruman had not managed to solve the Lotho problem before they arrived home, it might very well have worked. I can easily see the Thain, Master and Mayor confronting Lotho, and making it clear that he could sell Bag End back or find himself in deep legal difficulties. Of course, at this point in time, none of the hobbits have any idea of the extent of Lotho's nefariousness in the Shire.
And the part with the White Tree was very symbolic, foreshadowing not only Frodo's leaving, but his future healing as well.
Author's reply
Glad you like this part of the procession. The only time Aragorn saw them riding properly was on the road to Bree, and how much could he have seen? Now he can see it clearly, and realizes that these are indeed Hobbits of substance who gave up a good deal to come out here. Sam left the one girl he's ever truly fancied; Merry and Pippin left their positions as their fathers' heirs; Frodo feigned poverty and sold the one home he's loved since his parents' deaths. These are not just Aragorn's friends--they have a place in life, a life and people to return to, families who love and care for them.
And the foreshadowing is there, and I admit deliberately, although so far only Gandalf truly appreciates it.
And I wish it had been just a matter of Thain, Master, and Mayor leaning on Lotho and him giving over. However, Merry will learn on their return that his evaluation of what Lotho has been doing to others was far too accurate.
shirebound
· 30 October 2005
· Chapter 14: 14: The King's Procession
What an exquisite story this is, Larner. I love (your) Aragorn's attention to detail, and his thoughtfulness regarding the hobbits and arranging ponies for them. And I'm quite sure those who gave the hobbits 'tribute' told that proud tale all of their lives.
Author's reply
I'm so glad that you appreciate the attention to detail Aragorn gives for the Hobbits. I would think that this would be especially meaningful considering his own future has been tied to Frodo's success in bringing the Ring to the Sammath Naur in time. And he's watched each of these small, funny creatures, when the need is there, stand up and offer himself for others, and not regret it afterwards. Frodo may doubt himself, but he does not doubt he did the right thing in taking the quest to begin with.
And those who offered tribute have been blessed, as have those who were given it.
Thanks so much for the warm feedback.
Radbooks
· 30 October 2005
· Chapter 13: 13: Party of Princes, and a King Made
Very well done and particularly moving. To see Aragorn's conflicts and mixed emotions as he took up the crown seemed so very real. It was something he did not want and yet he had to, for the sake of his people, to fulfil his heritage and of course to marry Arwen. Duty of that sort can be such a burden and yet because he was surrounded by people whom he loved and who loved him, the burden was eased.
Aragorn's comment that his own hope might not be fulfilled was interesting. Do you think that he really thought Elrond would not bring Arwen or was it just fear at that moment? You might bring that up later so maybe I shouldn't be asking! :) But Hardorn's answer was so right... as was Aragorn's comment about not wanting to resent those he was ruling. All very good.
Again very good visuals of them and how they were dressed. You do a wonderful job of that. I need to work on that aspect of my story - I finished my chapter and sent off to a beta this morning so it should be out soon! :) I've had a tough time with some parts of it. :(
Author's reply
For a mortal, there are no guarantees. Will tomorrow come, or will I find myself standing before God when I become aware? Aragorn is eighty-eight years old now, and he's had far too much chance to appreciate just how fragile our lives can be. Arwen should be coming to him; but he has to know there were attacks on the northern fastnesses, and that Arwen was as vulnerable as her mother when the orcs took her and gave her a poisoned wound. And even if she comes--Isildur and his sons and companions ought to have been relatively safe returning to Imladris to recover Valandil and his mother--and look what happened to them! I'd think he'd be all too aware of everything that could possibly go wrong at this point. Yes, he's done his part; but who knows what may be happening outside his immediate sphere of influence....
And am so glad that you appreciate the visual descriptions. I, too, am looking forward to your next chapter.
Gentle Hobbit
· 30 October 2005
· Chapter 13: 13: Party of Princes, and a King Made
Oh I *do* like this chapter! And the others. At last I have had a chance to read this story. But I think this chapter is my favourite. There were touches and observations that struck true, including this one:
"Frodo heard, echoing in his mind, 'To bear a ring of power is to be alone.' Aragorn was looking into his face, and for a moment each knew the other understood far too well what that sentiment meant."
The idea of being held within a crystal, and its breaking (or not) for both Frodo and Aragorn, was a powerful one.
And I have enjoyed seeing what you have done with "your" minstrel, Faralion, and how you reworked my wind harp sequence... especially with the extra descriptions of the wind in the rigging, and the wind chimes that Faralion gave Frodo. Lovely!
Author's reply
Yes, the moment of truth as the long-hoped for time comes and one can't quite believe it, and finds oneself feeling disassociated from it. I've felt this way a time or two in my own life, and had to push through it to get done what needed facing. Frodo's crystal shattered, or so he feels; or perhaps he's really only now truly held in it. But Aragorn will go through the feeling to what is to come, because that's what he's been prepared to do all his life and what needs to be done.
And am so glad you liked what I did with your harp vibrating in the wind. The image of that from your story has just stayed with me, and I felt needed to be included here. Thanks so much for the permission to add to it.
Armariel
· 30 October 2005
· Chapter 13: 13: Party of Princes, and a King Made
Very lovely. Like taking a thumbnail sketch and turning it into an oil painting, the coronation seems here! Wonderful detailed descriptions and fleshing out. Really human and touching.
Author's reply
I love that description, Armariel. Yes, Tolkien did leave us with a number of thumbnail sketches, and it's always a delight to flesh them out. Glad that you appreciate how I did it here. Thanks so very much for the response.
SlightlyTookish
· 30 October 2005
· Chapter 13: 13: Party of Princes, and a King Made
This is a beautiful chapter, Larner. Have I said how much I love your Aragorn? Because I do. How wonderful and hopeful of him to have commissioned the hobbit-sized chairs even before the Last Battle.
Author's reply
Yes, Aragorn has always been the embodiment of hope, and here he lived up to his childhood name.
So glad you love him as I depict him. I've been in love with him, after all, since I first read the books when I was thirteen-fourteen years old.
Baggins Babe
· 30 October 2005
· Chapter 13: 13: Party of Princes, and a King Made
Loved this chapter! I was particularly touched by Frodo and Sam fastening each other's cloaks. I also love Sam's wise words: "For it’s in the way you treat those smaller’n you that you show your quality." How very true, and this is why Aragorn is the perfect leader, because he cares for the small and the weak, and sees their quality. So many politicians and leaders have nothing but contempt for little people, but Aragorn knows they are the foundation of his strength.
A wonderful description of the Coronation - I felt as though I was there.
Author's reply
This is the definition of the true leader, one who does care and shows it, from beginning to end. And the Coronation was one moment in the book when I truly wanted so much more, and it's a joy to be able to imagine it and share that imagining with others.
Thanks so much for the appreciation expressed.