When the King Comes Back by shirebound
Pearl Took · 9 November 2006 · Chapter 14: Epilogue: Their Wicked Ways
*applause* Bravo!! An adorable end to an adorable story!! Many thanks, shirebound, for a fun and fluffy tail . . . eh, tale :-)
Author's reply
Thank you, Pearl. I've lost count of all the fluffy tails in this tale! But those little rascals just wanted to come back for one last bow (and cuddle and feast and cuteness). Love 'em. :D
lbilover · 9 November 2006 · Chapter 14: Epilogue: Their Wicked Ways
Aw, what a sweet epilogue. That Gaffer is just a softy, isn't he? I love the adoption papers and Estel's gift for the pups made me laugh. This was totally delightful!
Author's reply
Thank you! Up until a week ago, I thought this story was finished. What fun to add a bit more, and get the pups into their new home. Puppies!!! :D
AspenJules · 11 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
Oh Shirebound, what a delightful ending. Sorry it took me so long to review, but real life has attacked with a vengeance, though it is finally slowing down. I hope to be able to get back to my own writing as well as reading and reviewing. Anyway, another wonderful Shirebound story, from the wonderful Quarantined universe! I always know where to come when I need a uplifting, cheerful, soothing read. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
Author's reply
Thank *you* so much! What a lovely thing to say. I think Scamp needs to run over and jump in your lap for a cuddle.
Grumpy · 10 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
Great story, loved it all from hurt rangers and hobbits to puppies. Love how Sam keeps changing the names of his puppies. You know I spent hours finding the right name for my cat, and he just totally ignores it, does not even know he is a cat.
Author's reply
Thank you, Grumpy! (I don't think our silly dog ever really knew her name, either.) :D
Glory Underhill · 2 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
The Dwarves had set up a rude camp I'm sure it was a rude camp! hehehe Did you mean crude? When Dwarves speak of the earth, it is as poetry. That gave me shivers! ‘Ranger’,” Frodo grinned. “He’s so scruffy, and constantly needs a bath... Kind of like a pirate too *g*
Author's reply
'Rude' in the dictionary sense of unfinished, or lacking refinement. I think, in this case, 'rude' and 'crude' are interchangeable. Those tricksy Dwarves! Awww, scruffy little Pirate/Ranger. What a cutie. :D
Baggins Babe · 2 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
“I spoke those same words, as did my father, as did his,” Aragorn said. “We have pledged our lives to the guardianship of Middle-earth, Halbarad. We are few, but we are vigilant. What safety and peace we may bring to others, we must do.” He reverently touched the carving of Beren. “And those who came before us still watch... and wait.” Halbarad turned to Aragorn. “Little remains of Annúminas, Captain, and yet the very stones seemed to speak to me. They wait, as well.” I love those words of Halbarad's - the idea that the stones wait also is wonderful and quite spine-tingling. This was so delightfull - naming the adorable puppies, cuddles for hobbits, and Bilbo's reputation higher than ever among the Dwarves. *happy sigh* This has been a lovely tale, full of love, and interaction between our favourite Ranger and our beloved hobbits. I'm in favour of an epilogue or something similar. Can we, can we, can we???? Huh? Huh? *bats eyelashes* *Goes off to roll in the fluff once more*
Author's reply
One of the themes I've tried to bring out in this series is that the Rangers (or at least a few) come to realize the very unique 'treasure' that is the Shire, and its inhabitants. I like to think of their tireless protection of the Shire performed out of love and respect, not just duty because Gandalf asked them to do it. I like to see characters grow and evolve, and learn new things about one another (and themselves). And if a few puppies, cuddles, and adventures happen along the way, well... Yay! I don't think I'll ever tire of piling up fluff for us all to roll in, BB! Thank you so much for reading, and for being one of the folks who enjoys Frodo finding the peace and joy he so richly deserves. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if *some* type of epilogue or short fic comes out of this story, but I don't know yet what form it will take. *jumps back into the fluff-pile with you*
Elanor Silmariën · 1 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
*grin* I love the names! Patch, Blossom and Ranger. So cute! And I love how Sam couldn't decide on his pups names. I do hope Estel and Halbarad get to visit again soon! God bless, Ellie
Author's reply
Thank you, Ellie! I'm sure they'll visit as often as they can. Wouldn't we all love to? :D
Elemmírë · 1 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
What another wonderful tale from beginning to end, Shirebound!! LOL! Bilbo's reputation has spread far and wide amongst the Dwarves. :D It's good to see that Halbarad's meeting with the Dwarves went so well ... and mostly because he was acquainted with Burglar Baggins. “Have you thought much about what it will be like... when the King comes back?” Bilbo asked I've really enjoyed Bilbo and Aragorn's conversations throughout this tale. They say so much by saying so little at times, yet there is such a deepness to them that is heartening between the two characters that also foreshadows their meeting in Rivendell, decades later. Frodo came outside, then, and joined them. Aragorn helped him up on the bench between himself and Bilbo. As always, I adore the love and care Aragorn bestows upon Frodo and vice versa. Ah hah, so Pirate was really Ranger at first! “The two of you are the scamps of this family,” Aragorn chuckled, “and always will be.” “Absolutely,” Bilbo said, putting an arm around Frodo’s shoulders. “And proud of it,” Frodo grinned. LOVE the ending!!!! I vote in favor for a future epilogue/short continuation!
Author's reply
Thank you so much. I think Aragorn really grows to respect Bilbo's wisdom and experience, and Bilbo proves to be very trustworthy as one of the few people who knows Aragorn's true identity. A wonderful friendship. Yes, I suspect there will be *some* type of continuation, as soon as the muse barks... errr, strikes again. :D
Linda Hoyland · 1 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
Thank you for a most enjoyable story, I shall miss this and hope you will return to Aragorn and the Hobbits in future. I fear I've forgotten where Bilbo found the staues.Is it in another of your stories? Your stories are always a treat to read.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! :D The carvings were discovered (and Scamp first arrived at Bag End) in the story "Reflections of the Past".
Lily Baggins · 1 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
I finally got caught up with reading this... oh my, words cannot do justice to how heartfelt and adorable this was. I was grinning from ear to ear... especially at the light banter between everyone, Halbarad's talk of the visit with the dwarves (I do love how you include so many details about other races in your stories---even the ranger oath!), and you know, I did enjoy that little bit about Aragorn carrying Frodo in his quilts ... Aragorn discovered that Scamp seemed calmer when it was his hand that stroked her, so he petted and comforted the dog. Well, of course she'd be most comforted by Aragorn, right? He's very good at that and has had lots of practice at administering TLC. :) Hobbits, pups... they're all cute and furry and in need of a ranger's protection. So glad Sam got to keep the "twins." I have a definite feeling we'll be seeing them in future stories... hopefully not causing too much trouble. And a lovely second look at the wonderful carving below Bag End... wow, that was intense. Lovely, lovely story... can't wait to see what you have up your sleeve next!
Author's reply
Hobbits, pups... they're all cute and furry and in need of a ranger's protection. They certainly are! And they all need to be carried about and given lots of TLC by said ranger (and everyone else). Thank you, Lily. I know this wasn't the intense Aragorn-angst you crave, but every little bit helps! :D
Amy · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
Aw, the pups have names, and Halbarad has seen the carvings and has another reason to protect the Shire, and they're off Rangering again tomorrow! But, oh, dear, it's over already?! We'll just have to encourage your muses to take up another story thread very soon! *still pondering about who at Mount Doom signs for that package that Frodo sent*
Author's reply
Glad you enjoyed, Amy! We'll see how long it takes for the puppy-muses to start barking in my ear again. *giggles* That was a cute cartoon, wasn't it? :D
Antane · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
A good ending! Love the Frodo-Aragorn hugs. The many name changes for the 'other' little ones - "that was hours ago". :) Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Thank you, Antane. Hugs and puppies... *happy sigh* :D
Andrea · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
“I know your pup will get a real name when he goes to his new home, but we have to call him something in the meantime.” “And that would be?” Halbarad asked. “Sam and I discussed it, and decided on ‘Ranger’,” Frodo grinned. “He’s so scruffy, and constantly needs a bath, and... well, it just fits, don’t you think?” “Perfect, Frodo lad,” Bilbo laughed. LOL!!! Perfect indeed! Although I like 'Pirate' as well ;-) That was wonderful, Shirebound and I would very much appreciate "a short continuation". Thank you very much. This story never failed to cheer me up :)
Author's reply
Of course, 'Ranger' is just his *temporary* name! Thank you so much for reading, Andrea. :D
Endaewen · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
Lovely. Thank you for writing another wonderful story.
Author's reply
Thank *you* for reading, and for your kind words.
Queen Galadriel · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
“We have pledged our lives to the guardianship of Middle-earth, Halbarad. We are few, but we are vigilant. What safety and peace we may bring to others, we must do.” That is the most beautiful quote of the whole chapter, Shirebound. How very like our dear Ranger...healer...king. Sounds like Halbarad had a very interesting and proffitable time with the Dwarves. Had to laugh at the part about drinking! How Dwarvish! LOL! “Oh, and Sam’s finally named the twins. He wanted me to come out and tell everyone.” “He told me earlier that the names were Sunny and Cloud,” Halbarad said. “I thought they were Bramble and Ramble,” Aragorn argued. “That was hours ago,” Frodo said. “They’ve had a dozen names each since then.” “So what are we to call them?” Aragorn asked. “‘Patch’ and ‘Blossom’. I can’t tell them apart yet, but Sam claims he can. And of course Scamp won’t have any trouble.” “I am certain of that,” Aragorn said. “And there will be time enough for us to get to know them a bit before Halbarad and I depart tomorrow.” *grin* It can be very difficult to choose just the perfect names, can't it? But this one *is* perfect... “Sam and I discussed it, and decided on ‘Ranger’,” Frodo grinned. “He’s so scruffy, and constantly needs a bath, and... well, it just fits, don’t you think?” “Perfect, Frodo lad,” Bilbo laughed. LOL! Too cute! I wonder if Serende keeps that name? And do *we* get to know the little puppies a bit? *nudge* *grin* You know we'd love a short continuation or epilogue! But if you should decide to end it here, it's a sweet ending and I have enjoyed this story as much as ever and more! God bless, Galadriel
Author's reply
Thank you so much! I really had an interesting time with that oath, and a *wonderful* time thinking about puppy-names. I'm hoping there will be at least a short fic (possibly for Halloween or Yule) so we can all get to know Sam's new puppies a bit. :D
harrowcat · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
It's over? Oh!! :( But I do love that oath! And the title of the chapter.
Author's reply
Thank you so much. That oath was actually one of the first things I wrote, way back when I started this story... but never had a chance to fit it in, until now.
Pearl Took · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
Bravo! Well done! and Adorable :) :) Ranger is the perfect name for Halbarad's pup :)
Author's reply
Thank you, Pearl! At least the pup has a 'temporary' name... we'll see what Serinde actually names him once she receives her gift. Hopefully Surgicalsteel will post something about it.
lbilover · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
*wipes tears* What a perfect ending, Shirebound. And I am honored to have had a hand in naming one of the pups!! One of the things I especially loved was your reference to Bilbo's poem about Aragorn. It just seemed to pull everything together into one big circle connecting past, present and future. I very much hope you will show us a little more in an epilogue or short continuation.
Author's reply
Thank you so much. I really do try to pull all the 'threads' of this "Quarantined" storyline together as often as possible, to keep things as a coherent whole. And I suspect there will be a bit more to this story (probably as a separate ficlet) once inspiration strikes again. :D
SlightlyTookish · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
A cute ending to a cute story!
Author's reply
Thank you. :D
Larner · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
And how sweet that the pups already are named, and several times over on Sam's part. I do pray that Serinde will love Ranger, and I suspect she will continue with the name. I suspect it will fit quite well, in fact. I love the oath, and that the Dwarves of the Blue Mountains will aid in rebuilding Annuminas. Lovely ending, milady, and hope to have a glimpse of Serinde accepting Ranger, and two small pups following Sam and Marigold about! Heh!
Author's reply
I suspect that Surgicalsteel will be posting about Serinde receiving her puppy. I know they'll be very happy together! :D Thank you, Larner. I'll probably be writing at least a teensy something about Sam's pups, once inspiration strikes again.
Elflingimp · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
Dear shirebound I loved your story!It was very heartwarming except now you have me wanting to go get a puppy!!
Author's reply
I'm so glad you enjoyed this. And I want a puppy, too! Hopefully someday we'll both have one. :D
SurgicalSteel · 31 August 2006 · Chapter 13: Tales and Tails
Nawwwww. Loved this. I don't think there's anything about oaths for Rangers in canon, but I quite like yours. *ponders something with healers and a Middle-Earth equivalent of the Hippocratic oath...* Loved that Halbarad made out so well with the dwarves, and that they were so compassionate once they found out about the injuries. And Aragorn looking forward to giving him the diplomatic missions... Oh, this was just wonderful!
Author's reply
Thank you so much. I enjoyed thinking about what a Ranger's 'oath' (if there is one) would be like. I assumed it would be a very solemn and ancient ritual.
Elanor Silmariën · 27 August 2006 · Chapter 12: New Strength, New Life
*bounces* Yay! Puppies finally! Reminds me of when my little dog had puppies, I was so worried when she woke me up panting and whining, but it was all right, like with Scamp. I love puppies! *is happy* God bless, Ellie
Author's reply
Can you tell I love puppies, as well? And I had to make sure that Scamp had a healthy, complication-free experience. :D
Linda Hoyland · 23 August 2006 · Chapter 12: New Strength, New Life
What a lovely chapter. The vision was stunning and I loved that even Scamp regonised aragorn's healing powers. A true treat to read.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! :D
Elemmírë · 23 August 2006 · Chapter 12: New Strength, New Life
Yeah!!! The puppies have arrived at long last ... and what cuties they are! I'm glad Scamp had an easy labor, not that you would have her do otherwise. :D I just love in the begining how Bilbo cares for Frodo ... how he makes sure he is comfortable with pillows and the blanket, and also how he warns Frodo that Scamp might not be herself around them as she gives birth. I'm glad to see that Bilbo warned Frodo that she might even snap--very important for him to know as he is still very wary of dogs (save Scamp) after being chased by Farmer Maggot's. Sam opened his mouth to reply, but nothing came out except for a small squeak. Suddenly he leaped up and threw himself into his father’s arms, and Hamfast hugged his young son tightly. This was the sweetest chapter yet, Shirebound! Aragorn remembers everything and then some and Sam is overjoyed at receiving not only one, but TWO of the puppies. I doubt he'll be able to sleep at first due to his excitement. Will Frodo and Sam hold another adoption ceremony for the pups, like they did for Scamp a few years before?
Author's reply
The one thing I always knew about this story, was that Scamp wouldn't have a lick of trouble birthing some adorable, healthy pups! Thank you so much for your lovely words. Another adoption ceremony! I never thought about that. If I ever get inspired to write it, I'll certainly give you credit for the idea! :D