*Finally* a chapter I managed to read without crying! Oh Larner, after the sad story before this was the *perfect* happy-end! All these lovely reunions! I had already wondered if in this AU Sam would sail at all, as there is no Frodo waiting for him, or so he thinks. Don’t know why I had the idea at all, impossible as it seemed, but after Gandalf’s repeated mentioning of the ‚companion’ and the return of Beren and Luthien I had a vague suspicion who it could be. Gandalf was a bit too smug to not be suspicious, wasn’t he? *grin*
And you even managed to enclose Ruvemir and his mantle in this story :-)
Another wonderful story, Larner, and the unexpected reunion of Sam and Frodo left me beaming happily. Though I have to admit, now I'm starting to think how certain things would have been changed in this AU and how this or that would continue - so it's probably better that I shut up instead of demanding more of this ;-)
Author's reply
So glad this chapter brought you joy rather than grief, and the reunions are always to be delighted in, I think. And we had to have at least the hint of Ruvemir, don't you agree?
As for encouraging this most tenacious of nuzguls--don't you dare! He's not given me peace save when I've been working on this story for weeks!
Kitty
· 18 March 2007
· Chapter 9: Laid to Rest
The hill atop Bag End was the perfect place to bury Frodo, as he so often went there to find peace and quiet and watch the stars.
Was glad Aragorn started the discussion about It, as it certainly helped the others to learn and understand a bit more about what happened, what I found rather satisfying. The same goes for what he said in the pavilion, particularly about what Frodo did to safeguard all of Middle-earth. You probably know already that I was never happy how much Frodo was ignored by most of the Shire-folk.
Anyway, I thought Aragorn’s speech - as well as these of Paladin and Saradoc - was very touching, and I am glad the hobbits had the chance to get to know their King a little bit. And I was glad Paladin allowed the Rangers to enter the Shire, so they could pay their respects to Frodo, too – as much for Frodo’s sake as for their own.
Author's reply
Oh, indeed, the Hill was the proper place. And I certainly agree about the Hobbits of the Shire needing to better appreciate what was done "out there" and how all four Travelers were such heroes in the eyes of so many. It's one reason Aragorn sent Ruvemir into the Shire and Frodo sent Bartolo out of it, I think.
Nor do I think Thain, Master, and Mayor would think to exclude Men from the chance to pay their respects, considering what they now know about Frodo's standing outside the Shire.
And am so glad you appreciated Aragorn's eulogy for Frodo. Thank you so much, Kitty.
SurgicalSteel
· 18 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
Well, this was just gorgeously done. Comforting to think that Frodo still was given the chance for healing despite his stubbornness.
Author's reply
Oh, thank you so very much, SurgicalSteel. And that Frodo might possibly hae been granted the same dispensation as Beren and Luthien just seemed so possible....
Queen Galadriel...again
· 18 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
P.S. After reading the other reviews, I just must say that I certainly did *not* see this coming! I thought Gandalf and some of the others were hinting at something nice, but when the mention of the companion came up, my mind flew back to a question Harrowcat asked about our favourite sculptor, and I thought "Ruvimir? Has he somehow found his way to Tol Eressea?" And now I laugh at myself, of course. When Sam saw the mantle, I knew my guess was wrong, and the mention of the right hand aroused a little spark of "almost-hope", but of course it was *impossible* that it be Frodo--or not! :)
One mark of a true writer is being able to draw the reader in as completely as possible without their actually being physically in the setting, and you have done that with me. Over the past weeks or so you've been posting this, I've found myself thinking about it at the oddest times; I'd be walking down the hall at school wondering if Aragorn would make it in time, or trying to concentrate on math while my mind was with the failing Frodo and his grieving loved ones. So maybe it's no wonder I felt somewhat drained by last night and now feel wildly relieved! :)
Okay, I'll shut up now. :) Apologies; I tend to chatter when excited. :)
Author's reply
Oh, what a wonderful thing to hear--that you've been so drawn into this story! Although I grieve it has disturbed you at school, even.
And the almost-hope you spoke of--how wonderful a compliment that is. But remember, all things are possible when one acts in love.
Thanks again, my Lady.
Queen Galadriel
· 18 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
OH!
Now I *am* crying, and how wonderful to cry happy tears after so many sad ones! :) I used to say I hated sad AU's, and honestly, I read this partly because, well, it's your work and I couldn't help myself, and largely because I trusted you to end it beautifully, even if the ending was bittersweet. But of all things I never expected such a wonderful surprise! Oh, thank you, thank you for such a beautifully happy ending! :) "Joy" indeed!
“Oh, my Sam!”
*more happy tears* That is just the perfect last line, Larner! I'm so glad to be left with a smile, the best I've had reason for in a while.
God bless,
(most satisfied) Galadriel
Author's reply
Yes, Joy indeed, for now Sam and Frodo might know the proper finishing and preparation right for both of them. And so glad that this one brought tears of joy instead of grief.
And what better line to finish it on, after all? (Smiling hugely.)
Queen Galadriel
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 9: Laid to Rest
Oh, I want to cry, but I have no tears. I almost feel as if *I've* lived through this with all the rest. Maybe that's a slight exaggeration, but every character, image, and emotion is so vivid.
Aragorn's speech was truly wonderful, as were those of the Master and Thain. I loved how each told of his relationship to Frodo and something of what Frodo meant to him.
And the burial, while (to me) heart-wrenching, was beautiful as well, and as Frodo would have wanted, though I'm sure he wouldn't be unhappy to know he missed out on being there to be viewed by half the Shire and more besides. :)
I so appreciate your prayers. I've heard plenty of first-hand stories about the difficulties blind people can have in finding jobs (though mostly the battle seems to lie in convincing others that they *are* capable). And quite honestly, at this point, little insignificant, everyday things that wouldn't normally bother me have been building up and chafing until I feel washed out and don't even want to think about climbing that mountain. But I have to do this, because I want to go to college, and I really, really need a new laptop. I don't know what I'll do if this one literally crumbles away (and I wouldn't be surprised either, if it did). I should really get a wireless internet card for the PM, but it does have a tendency to do the weirdest things, and has recently proved itself very untrustworthy--by eating my novel-in-progress. (I did get it back; I was able to reassemble it from the scattered backup on the laptop.) Well, nothing in life is certain...
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
Once again, learning I've truly been able to help others know depth of emotion is among the greatest gratifications I can know.
In ancient Athens they held a drama contest every year during the feast of Dionysus, and the point of the plays presented was specifically to bring the members of the audience to know as many emotions as possible, as deeply as possible. This was believed to be needed to achieve catharsis--a cleansing of the emotions allowing folk to be better able to face day to day life, and to assist people to know appropriate empathy with others. Certainly in making the movies Jackson and the entire great company of those who assisted in the making of the films reached that goal of full emotional involvement; and each time I watch them I'm drawn into them again, as I've ever been with the books as well. I'm very honored to realize I've approached that goal myself.
The actual burial was simple and straightforward, although the lying in state would perhaps have appalled Frodo. The shroud burial is actually from my own original story, so if I EVER get it finished being written and published, you'll undoubtedly appreciate it.
And I'll continue praying for you as you approach graduation and going out on your own.
As for technical problems--you KNOW I've had more than enough of my own to understand. To find that my colleage Sam had managed to preserve so many of the stories on the hard drive for the Toshiba laptop, and then to finally have them find the hard drives for my old desktop and get it running as well--I've been able to at least reconstitute my library files, which is a great relief, as well as being able to get into many of my home school lesson plans I'd used with former students and my braille files as well.
I'll send you the braille files for the descriptive scripts for the three films, if you wish.
Althea
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
This was a most satisfying ending. Gandalf was so wonderful in this chapter. I love both solemnity and his mirth as he greets and guides Sam. I am so glad that Frodo and Sam are together again. I have enjoyed this story so much. Thank you for sharing it with us.
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so glad you liked the ending, for that blasted little nuzgul masquerading as a plot bunny wouldn't leave me alone till I'd written it! Heh!
harrowcat
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
Just a briliant and perfect ending Larner!
Especially loved the moment of recognition. Reminded me of meeting Bilbo in the hall of fire. And I am so glad that the mantle got in.
Author's reply
I must say the nuzgul fastened on some of your previous remarks, giving him still another tooth with which to gnaw at my leg until I went back and wrote this epilogue. He is most gratified, and sits by my bed with a most satisfied grin on his face. Yogi and Kerry are sniffing at him suspiciously.
And so very glad you were glad Ruvemir's mantle was included.
Elanor Silmariën
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
Oh wow! I went from being so sad I was crying to so happy I'm crying! I did not expect that one bit! *bounces and claps hands happily* This is definately my favorite of your stories that I've read!
God bless,
Ellie
Author's reply
Aha! The tissue companies win both ways, do they? And am so very glad you liked it so very much. Thank you so much, Elanor.
Dreamflower
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
What a stunning ending! I have to admit, as soon as Gandalf began speaking of Bilbo's companion, I suspected--yet still I was somehow surprised all the same!
This has been a rollercoaster ride, between angst and joy, and I congratulate you on bringing it off so well.
I must confess, however, that part of me would like to see you explore what could have happened if Frodo had somehow found healing *this* side of the Sea--not complete perhaps, but enough to enjoy his life in the Shire. But then, that's something we all crave from time to time, and has been told often. I think, though, it would be fascinating to see *your* particular "Larner" spin on it.
And I wouldn't mind seeing a bit more in *this* AU, of how Frodo's very public death, and the honors shown him, affected those in the Shire--you've hinted, for example, that Merry and Estella might wed all the sooner, and I'd love to see more of Bartolo's new found allegiance to Elessar...
But I am quite sure you already have a long line of bunnies already nibbling at your ankles without me adding more...
Author's reply
Oh, the nuzguls on what MIGHT HAVE BEEN had Frodo found healing here have made themselves known, but so far have been held off successfully, although as soon as I'm done with "Stirring Rings" and "The Tenant from Staddle" I suspect that I'll resume work on my other AU, one that may throw some, although I suppose you won't find it so surprising from me.
As for bunnies and nuzguls--they're breeding and threatening to overwhelm me!
And am so very glad that in spite of the hints given this one still managed to give a pleasant almost-surprise. But I found for this AU the summerhouse did require a bit of remodeling for it to work. I thought, however, that the realization of "Yes--of course!" would come at the blue stone steps....
Andrea
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
Oh Larner! What else can I say but "Thank you so much"?
That was totally unexpected for me. But during this chapter it came quite clear that Bilbo's companion could be nobody else but Frodo.
The only one who did not see it coming was Sam, and so the scene when he did recognise Frodo at last was full of light and Joy ("Joy" with a capital letter, I liked that).
And it is absolutely believable that Frodo was sent to Tol Eressea after his death, for what was granted Beren One-Hand certainly was possible for Frodo of the Nine Fingers as well.
Once again: Thank you :)
Author's reply
Within Tol Eressea for these I do think that a good part of what they would know would be indeed Joy, capitalized indeed. And if Beren and Luthien had been granted this one grace, might it not be granted to Frodo as well, that he and Bilbo and Sam might also know that full healing associated with seeing the Light of each brought to fulness?
Am so very glad so many have found it acceptable and desirable, and for this AU in particular. Thank you indeed.
Andrea
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 9: Laid to Rest
Yes, I think Frodo would have liked the graveside Sam chose for him, on top of the hill he liked so much, under the stars. That's where his heart lay, not in Buckland.
I was very impressed by the speeches of Aragorn, the Master and the Thain. All three were very honest and one could imagine how deeply they loved Frodo.
“I grieve to have lost him, particularly when I only now begin to fully understand just how truly marvelous he was.”
That was perfect! And I think it is true not only for Paladin, but also for others, Narcissa for example - and Barti.
The funeral was impressive and moving and once again I think Frodo would have appreciated it that way.
And now to read the epilogue...
Author's reply
Oh, there could be no more appropriate grave site for Frodo anywhere, I think, not even by his parents' grave or graves (I've always imagined them being buried together, myself). And these were the eulogies the Shire needed to hear, I think. I like to imagine the Shire better informed that Tolkien showed it about what happened "out there." Am so glad you especially appreciate Paladin's final sentiments.
And I tried to achieve a balance between ceremony and simplicity in keeping with Frodo's nature. I hope he'd have appreciated it.
Thank you so much!
elanor winterflowers
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
Absolutely perfect ending. I love the Lights of Being that "flare" with joy and humor and love, and the sweet insight of the line: “They’re so much more beautiful here,” he breathed, “here as where they was meant to grow.”
And Frodo—well! More tears, of course. I thought perhaps he'd overlooked an important idea when he decided to stay; I am glad to find he thought so, too, in the end—though of course it all came right anyway. It was SO nice to see him again....and to see Sam come home....
:)
Author's reply
The Elves are so often shown as etherial beings surrounded by Light when they are seen from a distance; then in the vision granted of Aragorn at his crowning it appears he, too, is being seen surrounded by the Light of his majesty as the King Returned, the Healer as well as the Ruler and the Warrior Guardian. That their Lights of Being might grow brighter at moments of greatest joy and peace has always seemed probable, as well as the idea that those other most blessed of mortals might show forth their own.
As for Frodo--yes, I agree that in choosing to stay he would be turning aside from a most necessary healing for him; and with the precedent of Luthien and Beren to call on, it was only a small step to realizing he might indeed also be granted a similar return so as to know the full healing and reward for his constancy.
Am so very glad you appreciated that the beauty is best displayed where it was intended to blossom forth.
And indeed Sam has come home....
Thank you so much, and am so glad this last chapter has brought you so much delight.
elanor winterflowers
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 9: Laid to Rest
How exquisitely lovely. I particularly love that the ceremonies are so carefully designed to honor the simplicity of Frodo's nature and the Shire's traditions, and how, in being carried out, they assume the elegance, beauty and light of his being. How lucky for the Shire to know these moments of transcendence.
Heartbreaking, and heart healing, too.
Author's reply
I am greatly honored, Elanor. Thank you so very much!
Endaewen
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
After the sadness of the previous chapters, this was a delightful surprise. Thanks for posting it.
Author's reply
I'm so glad this brought you delight. Am pleased it has worked so well for you. And thank YOU!
eiluj
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 10: Epilogue
Oh, *very* good!
And I have to say I saw it coming, once I was a ways into the chapter. You did give some Clues, after all (Beren and Gandalf's returns).
How sneaky of you, to designate this "Chapter Author's Notes: Epilogue," as though it was merely Notes instead of the conclusion.
And how sneaky in general: to have your cake and eat it too (in many ways)! Not that we readers *mind*, of course....
Am I right also in thinking that what sparked this tale was Bartolo's wish, in the other story, to be Frodo's pallbearer?
Author's reply
Hmm. It reads on my computer as 99999: Epilogue. Interesting it comes up different on yours. The Author's Notes will be published tomorrow, I think. And those clues were put there on purpose, of course. At least this time Sam wasn't QUITE as quick on the uptake as you. (Heh!)
No, Bartolo's wish wasn't part of the inspiration to this story, although it did work its way INTO the story, of course.
But once that blasted little nuzgul with ears on began gnawing at my leg, I couldn't let Sam remain on Tol Eressea alone, could I?
Bodkin
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 9: Laid to Rest
Frodo can't fade into obscurity in this version of events, can he? Between the number of those who came to honour him and the stories they tell, word will spread from Hobbiton to fill the Shire. Even if some find it difficult to credit, they will have heard it.
It might change their perception of Sam, too. People now know that he is a Lord of the Free Peoples - whatever that might mean - and is honoured by the King as well as the Men, Elves and Dwarves who have come among them. They can see that he is honoured over Merry and Pippin - and that they are honoured themselves.
And I wonder if Frodo would have liked that... Maybe. He didn't think Sam took enough honour to himself. But he would probably have preferred that the Shire remained ignorant of what had occurred Out There.
Author's reply
By choosing to remain Frodo indeed doomed himself to be understood perhaps a bit better, indeed. In canon it wasn't till the meeting at the Bridge, fifteen years into his reign, that the folk of the Shire had the chance to see just how close Sam and Merry and Pippin were to their new King; this way it becomes obvious right away, as well as the grief all feel toward Frodo's demise.
Frodo would have loved knowing the honor given Sam was now being spoken of throughout the Shire, I think; but he would be appalled indeed to realize his reputation outside the Shire was known within it as well.
Thanks so for the feedback.
harrowcat
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 9: Laid to Rest
I think Frodo would have been so pleased by the concord reached over his grave-site. And the decision to let the rangers in to pay their respects. And to have his bier in the party field where it properly all began for him was inspired. And... And.... I can't quote all of it!
Jet sends his sympathies to mama-dog. He hates washing and his male-ego shivers at the thought of a pedicure! And I shiver at the thought of trying to keep him still enough to give him one!
Author's reply
I'm so very glad you feel Frodo would have been pleased, although I suspect he would also have known a degree of embarrassment as well.
As for the bier in the Party Field--well, I couldn't think of a better place for it to lie--the village grange hall would have been too far, particularly, I think, for Sam's comfort.
Kerry sends her thanks to Jet. Still haven't found the nail clippers, and it's a thankless task when she's involved, I've found. She HATES having her nails done, and lets her displeasure be known generally.
Linda Hoyland
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 9: Laid to Rest
Aragorn's speech was very moving and it was a lovely image of him with Sam at the grave. I liked the way you described Frodo's love of the Shire, I feel like that about my own home.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda. I'm glad Aragorn's emotion was so clearly stated, and these two are the principal mourners, after all. Now the folk of the Shire can no longer ignore the fact Frodo loved them profoundly.
Linda Hoyland
· 17 March 2007
· Chapter 8: The Pall Bearer
Frodo was very well organised.
Author's reply
Frodo was Frodo, after all, which means whatever he set his hand to was done thoroughly if he could manage it at all. And he had promised Bartolo, after all....
Althea
· 16 March 2007
· Chapter 9: Laid to Rest
You've got me all teary again. Sam's choice of burial place was perfect. Aragron's speech to the inhabitants of Hobbiton was very moving as were those of the Master and the Thain. I love the fact that so many dwarves and men and elves came to pay their respects. This was a very sad chapter, but also a very rewarding one because now so many more understand the many ways in which Frodo was heroic.
Author's reply
I'm so glad you felt it has the feeling of rightness to it. Frodo's a hero to Elves and Dwarves as well as the Rohirrim and the Dunedain, as the attacks on their kingdoms failed when the Ring went into the fire they were at last relieved.
And I truly think the Shire ought not to have been allowed to remain in basic ignorance of what Frodo and the others accomplished. Now there's a sizable core of individuals who've heard firsthand, and more who will learn from them.
Althea
· 15 March 2007
· Chapter 8: The Pall Bearer
Thanks for another wonderful chapter. Frodo's letter was like still having him in the Shire. His honor, humor, forgiveness, and love shone through. I do love how Sam and Aragorn are able to smile through their tears and how Bartolo has begun to find his own peace. This is beautifully written.
Author's reply
Thank you so, Althea. Frodo indeed knew the folk with whom he dealt well. And so all could know some degree of joy in the midst of their grief, and Bartolo the loss of years of envy and resentment.
Thank you so much for the final evaluation.
Althea
· 15 March 2007
· Chapter 7: Accepting a Gift
I knew Frodo would pass in this chapter, and I dreaded reading it. I do have tears in my eyes, but you made Frodo's last moments in this world beautiful. I am so relieved that Aragorn was able to help chase away the shadows, destroy Ungoliant, and allow Frodo freedom and peace at the end. I would have hated him to have died while in the midst of his horrible memories. I love the shining forms of Frodo, Sam, and Aragorn and how Frodo seemed so full of joy at the time of his parating. You have done a wonderful job.
Author's reply
Thank you indeed, Althea. I am deeply honored.
Queen Galadriel
· 15 March 2007
· Chapter 8: The Pall Bearer
Oh, I so wish Bartolo had been able to resolve his issues (wgat were they again anyway?) with Frodo before Frodo left the world, but I'm glad he let them go in this way. But I must say I *very* much look forward to his learning a thing or two of Fosco! Really, now, he ought to at least give him a chance! *sighs* Sorry if I seem unforgiving of him; he really is good at heart, and if he allows himself to open up he could truly learn a lot.
The discussion between Aragorn and the Hobbits was so beautifully written, and so "alive".
Read your reply to Harrowcat's review and had to laugh. Yes, they would forbid me to read this if they knew that it was part of the reason I've been a bit absent-minded and a little more than usually on the emotionally capricious side lately--though certainly this isn't the only reason; there's tension buildup between myself and one of my teachers, my own worry over trying to get some kind of job this summer, and the fact I've had a whole lot of homework and several very important tests lately, which means I've been up till anywhere from 1-3 A.M. studying or working. In some ways this story has helped keep me sane by giving me something else to focus on and an "excuse" if you will, to release the tension. And as I've mentioned before, I've learned a lot.
I certainly agree with what Dreamflower said in her review in regard to point of view. Masterful!
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
We'll fully understand Barti's issues only when I get further along in "The Tenant from Staddle." I hope they'll be well received, once they're revealed.
Aha, tension with teachers, eh? And thinking about the future and how you'll begin to take part in the workforce. I warn you now, it's difficult for folk who are blind to find jobs commensurate with their skills, although dedication will bring you to it in the end.
And if I can help you find a release for the tension, I am glad to do so.
Thank you so for the evaluations given, and praying you'll find the strength you need for what needs to be accomplished as it comes to you.
Andrea
· 15 March 2007
· Chapter 8: The Pall Bearer
He looked into her eyes and noted she meant precisely what she’d said. Bagginses didn’t make such statements lightly, he knew.
Well, how did Frodo call Bartolo in his letter? Markedly honest! And that honesty was it that brought him to Bag End at last.
It was fascinating to see what happened through Bartolo's eyes.
I liked the silver circlet and Persivo's observation that Frodo and Aragorn looked so very similar!
Of course it would have been a great honor to be buried at the Barrow Downs, but the hobbits would not have understood and Frodo would not have wanted it.
But where will his graveside be? He certainly put it in his will, didn't he?
I would say he chose Buckland, right beside his parents. But on second thought, Bag End could also be possible.
Suddenly Bartolo Bracegirdle felt it, the regard of the King, the honest respect offered him. And without realizing it he’d become the King’s man--or Hobbit, if you will. And the long-held anger he’d felt toward Frodo Baggins for over thirty-five years let go of him unnoticed.
That last paragraph was simply perfect! I'm looking forward to reading more.
Author's reply
Yes, honesty is Barti's strongest suit and his final salvation, I think. Am so glad all appreciate seeing this chapter through Barti's eyes, and that you felt that the recognition of the similarities between Aragorn and Frodo was best as perceived by Persivo. And to have been buried in the royal cemetery of Cardolan would have been the greatest of honor indeed, and I had the whole thing planned in my mind, even. But then I realized, no--not for Frodo. His gravesite was so very obvious, I further realized.
So, now you know in today's chapter.
And glad you, too, felt the final paragraph was just right. Thank you so!