Reconciliation by Larner
Linda Hoyland · 9 April 2006 · Chapter 7: 7: Heirs and Codicils
It seems that Bard has learned a painful lesson.Frodo certainly had a lively youth !
Author's reply
Yes, Bard has learned; but we all learn as we mature. Tolkien indicates Frodo was considered quite a rascal while living in Buckland and Brandy Hall; and it's fun to figure out details of what made him that way.
Queen Galadriel · 9 April 2006 · Chapter 7: 7: Heirs and Codicils
Ah, jealousy is one of the hardest things to overcome, and we can miss so much if we let it get a hold on us. It's such a pity that it wasn't let go sooner; Bard and Frodo might have had a longer friendship. But I'm so glad it was put away in the end. It's wonderful that these two could have this conversation; they needed it, and both gained something from it, I think. And Brendi's statement about accepting compassion is very true; it's so much easier when you know the other really, truly understands, but if they don't, at least to me, it's unbearable. Wow, I guess I've unwittingly been very unfair to poor Will. That's a side of him I never thought to see. "It's like losing Fenton all over again." Oh dear, Will, Mina, and the children and grandchildren will grieve as much as any of them. Have you read Tathar's "What Could Possibly Happen?" I saw the name Broadbelt here and found myself wondering if perhaps these are cousins of Farmer and Mrs. Broadbelt, and Daisy. :) God bless, Galadriel
Author's reply
Oftentimes it takes simply being with others to appreciate what they are like inside and to fight the effects of envy. Bard at least had the chance to get to know Frodo and to appreciate him in the end, which enriched both their lives in the end. And now Brendi and Bard are coming to appreciate one another as well. I certainly understand just what you've expressed about accepting compassion. It's far easier to accept when you know it is indeed compassion and not patronization or pity based on stereotypes. Certainly Faramir appreciated Eowyn's wariness in accepting his compassion when he began prodding her to see what she felt toward him in return. His wasn't just pity in isolation of understanding, and so in the end she came to love him for his ability to express compassion. Will hasn't been as openly affectionate toward Frodo as Mina has been, but I think he, too, would in his heart begin identifying Frodo with his son. They don't appear to have been all that similar in personality, yet both were very compassionate and discerning. And now he's able to express this aloud. I've always seen Frodo as one who draws love and affection and fealty to himself. There had to be something to draw Sam to the point he would leave the Shire to support Frodo however he could; that would do the same for Merry and Pippin; that would move Strider in the Prancing Pony to swear to protect Frodo by his life or death. I see him as positively charismatic in this way. And for those who truly came to know him, this separation would cause great pain and grief, I believe. Yes, I read "What Could Possibly Happen?" Well, of course these are distant cousins, related through Timmin's father's father's brother's son, naturally! Heh!
Dreamflower · 9 April 2006 · Chapter 7: 7: Heirs and Codicils
Poor Brendi and Bard, both of them losing a friend--Brendi, one of long standing, and Bard one he'd just come to know and love. It's really irritating to realize how many hobbits are never going to know and understand the truth--but at least those to whom he was dearest will know.
Author's reply
That's the way it is in real life--a few discerning ones appreciate what's really happening while so many just believe about anything they hear and that they feel fits what they want to believe about the individual to begin with. At least in losing Frodo the two of them are coming to appreciate one another as friends now. Thanks so much for the feedback, Dreamflower.
Elanor Silmariën · 9 April 2006 · Chapter 7: 7: Heirs and Codicils
It's really nice to see that the other hobbits are trying to understand Frodo's troubles instead of just ignoring them. God bless, Ellie
Author's reply
It's true of a few, at least, those who became closest to him. Thanks for the review.
Baggins Babe · 6 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
So much to love in this chapter I honestly don't know where to start! It was sad that Aragorn didn't make it in time, but interesting to think that Frodo might not have borne another farewell. I was glad that Cirdan and Radagast were there to greet him. The vision was perfect - and wonderful for Aragorn to see his own father. So Frodo is still drawing on the Elessar Stone? I'm thankful that Aragorn was able to witness Frodo's decision to live. The meeting with the Bounder was marvellous - of course a hobbit would have a larger skillet! Hobbits must wonder why Men don't fade away, they eat so little. :-)) I wonder what this particular Took will think when he learns the identity of the Ranger? It was lovely that our favourite King and hobbits were able to spend some time together. It is necessary in order for them all to mourn the loss of Frodo and to start the healing process.
Author's reply
If Frodo's heart were actively failing then there would be, I think, a limit to the grief of partings he must experience; and that with Aragorn would be as difficult as that with Sam, if not worse, for this would be both a greeting and a farewell. And I believe that when Frodo described his heart as being frayed by the farewells he's already made I think he was speaking literally as well s figuratively. I suspect Elrond would have realized Aragorn would try to make it to the embarking and so would have left at least something for him, probably realizing he would then meet with Merry, Pippin, and Sam. In that case Cirdan certainly would have been deputized to pass on Elrond's provisions and to seek to soften Aragorn's disappointment. And I think Radagast would stay after the defeat of Sauron to the rebuilding of Middle Earth's natural beauty and its animal population. That Aragorn would befriend a Bounder may not have been foreseen, but that meeting helps serve to strengthen the trust growing between the Shire and the Rangers of Eriador. (And of COURSE Beligard would have a properly big skillet in his pack, wouldn't he? He IS a Hobbit, after all!) Am glad you appreciated the vision of Frodo--I know I wrote it before into a couple of my other stories, but wanted to expand it but a bit and look at it from Aragorn's experience. Whether Frodo was actively seeking to draw on the Elessar or it simply recognized his need and flared on its own or in response to the King's emotions is difficult to say, so I'll let each of us interpret it as we desire. And, yes, they do need to give one another permission to mourn and reassurance the rest remain to one another's comfort at this time.
Kitty · 6 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
*sigh* I’m so very sorry for Aragorn! How sad for him to ride so long and hard through half of Middle-Earth, only to realize he is too late! It may be true that Frodo’s already failing heart may not have been strong enough for another farewell, but for Aragorn it is still sad. And the fact he will never see Elrond and the others again is certainly not helping. At least he was able to see Merry, Pippin and Sam again, to talk to them, and I am somehow glad he hasn’t to ride all the way back to Gondor alone. Now I wonder if the Bounder, Beligard, will ever realise just *who* this ranger was! I’d love to see his face if someone tells him the true identity of Strider! *grin* Well, as he is supposed to bear Aragorn’s greetings to the three Hobbits, he will probably know soon he has meet the King. Aragorn’s ... is dream the right word under these circumstances? ... was fascinating. Somehow it was so fitting to have him witness Frodo’s struggle to remain and to have him going after Frodo, even if only to witness his decision. Well, when his brother some years later gave him the journal of his mother he was probably able to understand why not only Primula and Drogo were there, but Gilraen and Arathorn as well, as Frodo is in a certain way their child, too. Wonderful idea! The whole episode was simply beautiful, from Aragorn’s first look at Frodo until the flaring of the Elessar stone.
Author's reply
Yes, I wish Tolkien had allowed Aragorn to be there at the Havens to say goodbye as well; but as he didn't, Aragorn must accept the cold comfort of realizing his coming may well have been a bad thing for Frodo. Yet he receives the awareness that his coming was prepared for, and that in his way Elrond also seeks to aid him in his return back to the former's wife, the latter's daughter. He knows he is loved and that his desire to be there was recognized and honored. Beligard is going to be surprised when he learns the identity of the Man whose breakfast he shared, isn't he? And the dream or vision is a moment of comfort for him as well as the last incentive for Frodo to return and accept life at the end. And you are certainly right as to why these four served as fellow witnesses. Aragorn will understand one day, and perhaps is beginning to realize now. Thanks for the feedback, Kitty.
Bodkin · 6 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
I'm glad Elrond knew Aragorn was coming - and left a message that might console him for not having got there in time. And that Aragorn was apparently part of the business of persuading Frodo not to give back the gift unwrapped. He'll know that Frodo made it to the west anyway. And another good get-together - Glorfindel, the twins, Aragorn, Merry and Pippin. And I'm glad the hobbits can see the difference between Sharkey's men and these Rangers. Cos it's pretty huge.
Author's reply
Elrond was gifted with foresight and had known millenia to hone it; I'm certain he'd know Aragorn was coming and would have sought to prepare for it, although he knew his foster son would arrive too late. And Aragorn's spiritual presence again offers incentive while not forcing. What can Frodo do, surrounded by such love, but give in and live in spite of himself? Between Bilbo, Gandalf, Elrond, Galadriel, AND Aragorn he's totally outnumbered, after all! And I think that, as a Took, Beligard would be blessed with a good deal of discernment to his nature, don't you? Once he saw the signs of true knowledge and acceptance of Hobbit nature in this one, of COURSE he'd haul out his skillet and add his own offerings for the meal. He's probably descended from old Gerontius as well, don't you think? So glad you appreciate it.
Tigger · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
Oh my...Larner, this was so beautifully bittersweet. I love this part of the story from Aragorn's POV. Meeting the Bounder and showing that he truly was not like the Men who had taken over The Shire during The Time of The Troubles. Seeing that Aragorn truly knew how to handle himself in the wild would have done much to impress the hobbit that this particular Man really did not mean any harm. Then Aragorn's dream...My Goodness...I don't know where to start. For him to "meet" Arathorn and in such a manner. All to try to let Frodo know it wasn't his time to take the Gift and all that was wanted was his healing. So very, very powerful. I'm so glad you had Aragorn, his brothers and Glorfindel meet up w/Sam, Merry and Pippin. I think they all needed to be w/one another, at least for a small measure of time, right at that period. They were all still broken hearted, but unlike the constant and accepted ache that's there in your other stories, the grief was very, very near here. They truly did need to be w/one another and to just talk. What an amazing chapter to this great story. Is there more to come?
Author's reply
Beligar now stands as another witness that the Men who make up the Rangers are quite a different kind than the Big Men; and what he will do when he realizes just WHICH Man he's met with will be interesting to explore, I think. This one is keeping carefully outside the Southern borders of the Shire, and is respectful of the Hobbit and of the land, seeking to leave all in good condition in spite of his camp. That Aragorn would at times have visions of those he's loved and in this case even the father he probably barely remembers I thought would be right and proper, particularly in light of the spiritual brotherhood I've imagined between Frodo and Aragorn. And am pleased you found that scene powerful. Aragorn, having come so far only to be unable to complete his avowed mission would need at least to meet with these three; and it would be healing not only for the four of them but for Elladan and Elrohir as well, having seen their grandmother, father, and so many they've known probably all their lives now leave them. And now the children of Elrond and three grandchildren of Galadriel will have the chance to be with one another and aid one another to heal. There will be some more, although not a great deal of it. Thank you so much for following it so well. Note: the power supply for my laptop died and it will be a few days before the replacement arrives. I transferred your story onto it, and can't do anything about it until I can get back up and running. Please forgive me the wait.
Linda Hoyland · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
How lovely to have a chapter full of Aragorn !The dream(or rather vision) was just beautiful.I loved the way the stone glowed.It would help all Frodo's loved ones to se each other.
Author's reply
Yes, they all need one another now, I think, and are able to offer one another solace. Am so glad you found the vision beautiful; but it was perhaps the last time Aragorn could offer the Elessar's power to Frodo to share. Thanks so much for following this so well and your feedback.
Radbooks · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
Oh, I know this is strange, but I was glad that Cirdan was able to tell Aragorn that it might have been too much for Frodo if he had seen Aragorn and had to tell him good-bye. Somehow that would seem to make the fact that you didn't get to see him a little easier I think. Still disappointed, but.... I liked the scene between Aragorn and the other hobbit in the wood. It's good for other hobbits to have good interactions with men and learn that they aren't all bad. And for Elrond to have provided food for Aragorn was a nice touch... a father thinking ahead! :) It took me a long time to figure out why Aragorn's parents were there when Frodo was trying to decide whether to stay or go... I'm so slow sometimes! :) But it was neat for Aragorn to have a glimpse of his father. I, of course, wanted Aragorn to be able to stay and be with Merry, Pippin, and Sam for awhile longer but I know that he has a lot of things that he must do and I was glad that his brothers were going to go home with him. I was touched that Pippin wanted to go with him, too, but they have to live their own lives and those are so far apart from each other. Very enjoyable chapter!
Author's reply
I agree about Cirdan's words being in an odd way a form of solace for the lateness of Aragorn's arrival. Yet in the end he wasn't denied a farewell of sorts, which was also a welcome to the life to come. So, you wondered why Aragorn's parents might have been present? Many others might also wonder, although they haven't read "The Ties of Family" and "Lesser Rings." You do have me giggling here. And I also think it would be a gift for Aragorn to feel he is indeed interacting with his father, to feel the communion with all close to him who have gone before. Pippin seeks to do his duty; but at the same time Aragorn realizes that Pippin's strongest duty right now is to grow once again as his father's son and to learn the duties inherent on being the Thain's heir. And I do believe the three sons and one daughter of Elrond need one another right now. The King doesn't go back home alone as he came, but with a proper escort, although if I know Aragorn he'll be as much escorting them as they are him. Heh!
Elanor Silmariën · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
I love hearing about Aragorn! It was simply wonderful that Aragorn now knows that Frodo has chosen to accept the gift given to him. Keep it up, I love it! God bless, Ellie
Author's reply
Oh, I've been in love with Aragorn myself since I was thirteen; that he would come north to try to be there to bid Frodo farewell I've felt was in character, and in my case I suppose I NEED him to do so as well. And he does now know that Frodo has accepted the grace fully, and is willing to see what the future brings to him. So glad you enjoy it.
Queen Galadriel · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
How wonderful to see Sam finally getting the full respect his dignity (and his well-earned station) deserve. And now the time of realisation comes--I think that's the most painful part of losing someone so dear. It's one thing to do what needs to be done, go where you must, try to manage to get life back in order; but quite another to at last have a moment to think, and then it just hits you like a ton of bricks. It's hard enough when you aren't extremely close to the lost loved one, but I can't even imagine how it will be for them... Good--they're all opening up to one another at last. Yes, I imagine Merry would have a difficult time forgiving his aunt and uncle, after all poor Pippin went through because of them. I love this latest chapter! You manage to write this from Aragorn's POV without repeating overmuch, and the vision/dream was perfect, and kind of the Valar to let him see and even have a part in that final struggle-and victory. And I quite agree with Aragorn that the only force that can overcome a stubborn Baggins is the will of an even more stubborn one. :) Which reminds me, I need to get another chapter of your story up... God bless, Galadriel
Author's reply
You are right--it's once the busy-ness of the memorials and wakes and last business is done with that the reality of having to live without the person becomes most obvious. And it's also in that time we begin to heal as we can. Sam deserves to be recognized for what he is--one who's always hidden his intelligence and understanding under bushels and has stood in Frodo's shadow, but who now lives in the full daylight on his own merits. One who is fully worthy to be Master of Bag End and to become Mayor in his own right in the future. Now he will learn to manage Will that he be better able to work alongside Master and Thain in the future. And Frodo would do well to accept the truth--he's opposed by one stubborn Baggins in better shape to remain so for now as well as a Wizard and two of the greatest of Elves, not to mention the love of all who would see him find fulfillment now, symbolized by his friend and spiritual brother Aragorn. And am looking forward to more of MY story, after all! Heh!
Andrea · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
Once again: Wow! Strider the Ranger is back! I loved the scene with the hobbit bounder - every inch a Took, I have to agree with Dreamflower. I also enjoyed the scene where Aragorn was met by Radagast as the last of the wizards and Cirdan the shipwright who will be one day among the last of the elves to leave Middle Earth. “The one force sufficient to move the will of a stubborn Baggins, I have learned, is that of an even more stubborn one.” LOL! Now, that is absolutely true. Aragorn's dream was very touching. It turned out that he was right and it really needed a Baggins to lead another Baggins back to life. I loved the description of Frodo's parents and that Aragorn's parents were there as well. They all knew somehow that Frodo and Aragorn were meant to be brothers. “When he hugged us,” Merry said softly, “it was one of the most—most intimate of embraces I’ve ever felt from anyone; but at the same time he was already withdrawing. Oh Merry, it must have been really hard for him to part from his cousin. Sometimes I think it must have been even harder for him than for Sam!
Author's reply
The relationship we have with one is not that which we have with another, even if they are of similar intensity. Even if Merry and Sam have a similar feeling of being brothers to Frodo, the fact remains that for Merry it has been lifelong and from a beginning where Frodo is a member of Merry's personal family. Even the years of separation cannot change that. Frodo has been there for Merry literally all his life, but not from now on. I agree--in many ways it is harder for him than for Sam, although in others it's harder for Sam. So glad you enjoyed meeting Beligard, who so quickly realized this Ranger did indeed know his Hobbits. Yes, very much a Took, and one who's able to judge on his feet. Even if Frodo was evenly matched facing Bilbo, the fact remains he's outnumbered there aboard ship, and when he thinks Aragorn also sides with those who would see him accept healing he accepts it at last. And you know how I feel about the spiritual relationship between Aragorn and Frodo. I suspect that Radagast is indeed going to take a personal hand in the recovery of Middle Earth from Sauron's interference, so I suspect he'll go probably on the last ship with Cirdan himself. So glad you enjoyed this chapter.
demeter d · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
How delightful to see a brief return of Strider the Ranger! The vision was most interesting. Obviously neither Gilraen or Bilbo ever shared their common insights with Aragorn. Perhaps someday Glorfindel can enlighten him. Although, he and Frodo discovered much on their own. How perfect that Radagast had been there to see them off. We do not read much about him in Tolkein, but I enjoy very much the wonderful fan-stories about him. He seems to be as tied to the earth as the elves. I also enjoyed seeing the twins journey south to be with their sister. She would need them then.
Author's reply
I strongly suspect that Aragorn enjoyed reverting to his Strider persona from time to time, as it has to do with his coming to full acceptance among his own people. I do have Aragorn finally coming to awareness of the fact his mother miscarried two brothers for him, in "The Ties of Family." In that story, during the proposed conferences of the northern peoples, Aragorn is given his mother's diary by Elladan and Elrohir, who found it in their father's personal effects. I do think that there would be some to see the others off, and that realizing Aragorn was on his way Radagast would have lingered behind to speak with him on behalf of the Wizards. Probably Gandalf asked him to do so so as to reassure him at the end. And I've loved some of the stories I've read which include him, including Jodancingtree's "Following the Brown Wizard." And at this time I think the four children of Elrond would find themselves drawing together for mutual comfort. Thanks so much for the feedback.
French Pony · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
Underneath it all, Strider is still Strider. Tramping incognito through the Shire and letting Hobbits assume things about him, secretly loving every minute of it. That was a great scene with Strider and the Bounder. Interesting device of letting Aragorn have a vision of Frodo. Even though Frodo is no longer in this world, we can still keep tabs on him that way. I like the way you shifted the tone of the story from relatively light narrative to the more spiritual tone of describing the ship.
Author's reply
Well, in this case riding the now alternate route intended for Men South of the Shire, but I agree--Aragorn's going to enjoy reverting to being Strider from time to time. In fact, later on in my stories I have some characters enjoying seeing him do just that. My stories do allow visions from time to time, I'm afraid--visions and the exchange of a bottle, of course! But in this case I suspect the vision was allowed by the Valar simply to hearten Frodo to linger within the bounds of Arda to his fulfillment. And you already know I do tend to shift the tone from time to time as my stories unfold. Such, after all, is life. Thanks so for the feedback.
harrowcat · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
I want to echo every word your previous three reviewers have said Larner - It saves me a lot of typing *g*. This is a real treasure of a chapter as it expands on all the bits you know I especially love in your tale. I liked the way you echoed what Gandalf said to Radagast in the book (stay but a moment). For some reason Beligard reminded me of the Ewoks in Star Wars - not entirely a flattering comparison I know but cute anyway. Have just been spending lots more money on the car - another defective tire that could have blown on the motorway. The blood chills to think of it. Way too many potholes around here and too many miles up and down the M40.
Author's reply
Am so glad I managed to catch so many moods and threads in a single chapter, Harrowcat. Aragorn fails to make it in time, but is reassured in a perhaps frightening way to learn that had he done so it might have been more than Frodo could accept; and he does get to see how things are changing and to get some business done and even meet with family and friends. The "stay but a moment" wasn't intentional, but I'm certain it was hanging around in my subconscious for just this interaction. And you find Beligard brings Ewoks to mind? Okay, can see the comparison--the little being on watch who, reassured this intruder is benign, sits down to share a meal with him. Have had to have both tie-rod ends replaced, and now the CVA joint. If I had my old Volvo, it would be about now I'd be having the exhaust system completely replaced AGAIN--one of the weaknesses in Volvos, I can tell you from intimate experience. Then it will be time for new tires for me, too, although it will be a time before I can afford new ones. And here it's WAY too many miles up and down Highway 101! Love to your parents and Jet.
Dreamflower · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
Poor Aragorn, all his haste and worry, and still he missed the farewell. Yet the reassurances that he received seems to have made it just as well, and he will not count the journey a wasted one. I especially loved his vision of Frodo's choice, and the way in which he was able to help him from afar! I also loved it that Radagast was there at the Havens--to see Gandalf off, I presume. Will Radagast play any more part in things of the Fourth Age? I wonder... I got a kick out of his encounter with the Bounder--that was truly a delight, and I just loved how Tookish he was--and how hobbity! I really loved that it was sharing breakfast that overcame his suspicions! LOL! And his skillet larger than Strider's. *giggle* And the meeting with Merry, Pippin and Sam was well done. I am so pleased they got to see him before he returned to Gondor. That was one more reason this trip could not be counted as a failure.
Author's reply
No, after the meetings allowed him, I agree the trip was not a waste for Aragorn; and I, too, am glad he was allowed to watch from afar and help as he could as Frodo finally made the choice to not just leave the Shire but to actually allow himself to see what his life could become on Tol Eressea. Jodancingtree's Brown Wizard tales made me decide to have Radagast linger to the recovery of Middle Earth, which is why I have him visiting Fangorn during one of the trips south by the Hobbits in "The Ties of Family" and speaking to Sam of how well he's used Galadriel's gift. So glad you like Beligard--definitely a Took, and one who can assess on his feet and determine the stranger there on the road just beyond the Shire's borders is a friend--particularly as he shares his eggs and bacon. And of course a Hobbit's going to carry larger skillets than a Man--that's part of being a Hobbit, you know! I expanded the visit with Merry, Pippin, and Sam a bit from "For Eyes to See as Can," and am glad you approve. Yes, good enough reason in and of itself for Aragorn to have come north as he did!
SlightlyTookish · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
Fascinating chapter. I especially love the part where Aragorn, his parents and Frodo's watched as Frodo chose to heal. I've never seen something like that before and it was really interesting. I'm enjoying this story very much.
Author's reply
I tend to inject a spiritual element into my stories, and am so glad you appreciate seeing it here. I've tended to see Aragorn as a spiritual brother to Frodo and Sam both, and so those most concerned for whether or not Frodo would choose to continue would be drawn together to stand witness, I think. Thanks for the feedback.
EstellaB · 5 April 2006 · Chapter 6: 6: The King's Visit
I really like this! Please update soon.
Author's reply
Am so glad you like this, Estella. Usually I do my writing on the laptop, but its power supply just died. As a result I'm having to use the server instead, and I can't stand writing on it for hours at a time, so my updates will be a bit slower than usual, running every three days, I suspect, rather than every day or two as they usually do. Thanks so much for the feedback.
Frodo Baggins · 4 April 2006 · Chapter 1: 1: Crickhollow Abandoned
Larner, This story was a true tear jerker! Beautifully written and envoking such sorrow and emotion in the reader's heart. Amazing, mellon nin. I almost feel as if I were being left behind or as if I was the one leaving. Oh botheration! Now I have to go get that box of tissues... Hannon le and Namarie! God Bless, Frodo Baggins
Author's reply
Yes, losing one so well beloved as Frodo was had to have been painful for all involved, and particularly when it comes accompanied by an apparent second disappearance by Merry and Pippin. Yes, there are tears, but more and more acceptance and healing as the story proceeds.
Kitty · 3 April 2006 · Chapter 5: 5: Openness Returned
It’s good to see that now not only Merry and Pippin have so much respect for Sam, but their parents as well. He deserves it after all he has done. And it is necessary they recognize his worth, as he has to be elected as Mayor some years later. As for Pal and Lanti, I think they have realized at last how mature and reliable their son is now. After all the problems over the last two years that is truly great! And I am glad Sara and Esme got Merry *finally* to talk about his experienced and all that happened. It was about time! They needed to know more of it, not only from others but from himself. And he needed to open up and talk about it for his own sake, too, I think.
Author's reply
All are beginning to see what Frodo knew for years--that Sam Gamgee is one of the greatest Hobbits born in the Shire. And at last relationships are beginning to return to normal and Pal and Lanti learn to listen and Merry allows himself to talk at last. And you are right--Merry needs to talk for his own sake as well as for others.
French Pony · 2 April 2006 · Chapter 5: 5: Openness Returned
I really enjoyed the first part of this chapter, where they're all realizing that they held pieces of the puzzle that was Frodo Baggins. That's a lovely image. It seems to fit both the characters and the situation remarkably well -- it's simple and yet so full of meaning. The second half of the chapter I liked less, because you were summarizing "The Acceptible Sacrifice," and I've already read that.
Author's reply
Sorry about the second half, but it is written equally for those who haven't read "The Acceptable Sacrifice as for those who have. Unfortunately this tends to lead to a bit of duplication. Please forgive me. And am so honored you so appreciated the image of all holding pieces of the puzzle. Thanks for letting me know.
Baggins Babe · 2 April 2006 · Chapter 5: 5: Openness Returned
I loved that Thain and Master and their families recognised the greatness in Sam. He deserves recognition. At least now they can discuss Frodo's problems openly, and this too will be part of the healing. I am so enjoying this story.
Author's reply
It's said that "clothes make the man" (or in this case, the Hobbit). All have always seen Sam as Frodo's gardener and caretaker; now for the third time Hobbits of the Shire are truly seeing him as a Hobbit of substance (intellectual, spiritual, and experiential as well as financial) and are being reminded Sam is far more than he seems. In "The Acceptable Sacrifice" the first revelation comes at the meeting of the family heads where Sam comes dressed in a Gondorian outfit instead of Shire dress; the wedding doesn't quite count as even in the Shire I suspect bride and groom would try to dress as finely as their means and their families' means can afford; then at the banquet to honor Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin for their contributions to the recovery after the Time of Troubles Sam again dresses up, but ends up having attention drawn from himself by his insistence Frodo wear his Lords mantle as well as Frodo's own native charisma. With no chance of hiding further in Frodo's shadow, Sam is now clearly being seen for the worthy Hobbit he is at last; and his dress for the day reflects that. Frodo recognized this was needed for Sam much as Bilbo recognized the same was true for Frodo back when Frodo first came to live at Bag End as Bilbo's ward. And, yes, open discussion helps ease the healing of all. Thanks for reminding me how much you enjoy it. How long it will take me to finish it I'm not certain, for my laptop's power supply died last night and I won't be able to replace it for three weeks, I fear.
Antane · 2 April 2006 · Chapter 4: 4: The Reading of the Will
I enjoyed re-reading that part of the will that was Frodo's loving tribute to his friends stubborn refusal to let him go into danger alone that was in the first story I read from you and so discovered even greater masterpieces. Thank you! Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
This insisted it had to be repeated here, for some reason. I'm rather glad it did, myself. But all needed to see how Frodo himself had come to perceive his companions' actions and sacrifices in the end.
Antane · 2 April 2006 · Chapter 3: 3: The Road Home
Oh poor Sam! But fitting somehow the way you described how his heart was torn out. I think as much as it would have hurt Frodo to do that to his brother, he would have chosen the least painful way to do it, if there was such a thing. And Sam's heart would have been bleeding for some time just as Frodo's was. I've thought before that Frodo's leaving doesn't make him any less torn in two. The only time he wasn't torn was when he had both halves of his heart with him. Love that Pippin and Merry sang the healing song. Poor lads. Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
No matter how it was done, it would be painful; however, I see Sam probably having become increasingly aware that Frodo was fading away and needed special healing, and the more Frodo appeared to fight that idea the more wrung out Sam would feel, until he got to the point he felt that his heart had no more blood to lose. Now it's come to the point of Frodo leaving, how could Sam seek to keep Frodo by him? Yet, the final separation would still have hurt. However, in the end, Sam's able to go on and to find healing for himself, only to have the joyful reunion before the two go on to rejoin Rosie and all the others both had come to love.