The Vault of Annúminas by shirebound
Dreamflower · 17 July 2007 · Chapter 5: A Perspective on Elves
So far a nice pleasant little adventure--"pony-rides in May sunshine"--or whatever the month may be, LOL! I love Frodo's tweenish self-consciousness about Elladan, and the way Aragorn is able to deal with it. And a *flowered* sling, LOL! What a picture that paints!
Author's reply
This is definitely one of the more gentle adventures I'll be writing. Oh yes, that sling definitely had to be as hobbity as possible! :)
SurgicalSteel · 17 July 2007 · Chapter 5: A Perspective on Elves
Elladan with the flowered baby sling! *giggles* And I'm glad Frodo relaxed enough to ask questions. And this bit made me giggle, too: “This must be the way Halbarad went,” Frodo said. The path on which they rode, alongside the sparkling stream, was well travelled. “How is he?” “Quite well,” Aragorn smiled down at the boy. “Since meeting with the Dwarves, he has grown vastly in confidence and diplomatic skills. I have come to greatly rely on him, and his brother.” 'Diplomatic skills' which include sucker-punching his chieftain in the gut and offering to knock out his teeth. *giggles* Confidence, though - yep, he's got that, alright.
Author's reply
Ah yes, I doubt that Aragorn will tell tales about those particular "diplomatic skills". Maybe someday (in your 'verse?) Halbarad will tell Frodo all about those early days. :)
aprilkat · 17 July 2007 · Chapter 5: A Perspective on Elves
What a lovely thing, to be sung to sleep by an Elf! I can see why Elves and Men mostly don't have deep friendships. It would be like knowing people who only live for two weeks and then die. One would be reluctant to care too much!
Author's reply
I agree, Elves must see, feel, think, and live their lives on a completely different emotional level than the "Secondborn". It's the rare Elf who bonds with a mortal, whether in love or friendship. They must learn to cherish each mortal life with which they come in contact, knowing it will be for such a brief (to them) time.
Larner · 17 July 2007 · Chapter 5: A Perspective on Elves
A silent Frodo at the first would be totally out of character! Am glad he relaxed. And I, too, giggled at the thought of Elladan wearing the flowered baby sling! How wonderful an image, and of Scamp peacefully sleeping until they stop to eat or camp. And love the explanations.
Author's reply
The more I thought about that baby sling, the more I imagined that Bell Gamgee would have had years to embroider and embellish it. But it must take quite a lot to surprise or embarrass someone who's thousands of years old. :)
Cuthalion · 17 July 2007 · Chapter 5: A Perspective on Elves
I guess I mentioned it before once or twice, but I'd like to say it again... your tales have the same power of healing and soothing a troubled soul as the sweet magic of Elladan's elvish song. I had a really wretched day, and yet reading this worked like a spell, making me smile and imagine that remarkable trio roaming the peaceful landscape of the Shire... and Elladan with that flowered sling! *giggles softly* Thank you so much, my dear. This was exactly what I needed right now. Mona
Author's reply
And your review certainly worked its soothing magic on *me*. What a lovely thing to say. I always try to contribute more gentle, tender, fluffiness into our -- and Frodo's -- world. :)
Amy · 17 July 2007 · Chapter 5: A Perspective on Elves
They're finally on the road (with an elf!)! I am so enjoying this road trip. If the Fellowship had spent the quest walking around Middle-earth and talking, I would have enjoyed that a lot.
Author's reply
Yes, the road trip has begun at last! I think Frodo is going to have a wonderful time. Thank you so much for reading, Amy. "Walking around Middle-earth and talking" is what so much of fanfic is about. No wonder we enjoy it. :)
grumpy · 9 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
Those baby slings are very usefull, my niece used one on both her babies, I am sure that Scamp will be very happy in there. Biblo must feel very young indeed arround all the old, old elves.
Author's reply
I just love imagining a tiny pup in a baby sling. :)
Linda Hoyland · 9 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
Delightful as always.. I agree there is magic about Aragorn !
Author's reply
Thanks, Linda. Yes, that magic just shines through. :)
Pearl Took · 8 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
I can totally understand about feeling suddenly younger when around those who are much older ;-) I like the baby sling for Scamp! Next they are off on their adventure! This is great fun, shirebound!
Author's reply
Thank you, Pearl, I'm so glad this is fun! Yes, I think being around Elves would bring a lightness of spirit, and a feeling of 'youthfulness' to our elder hobbit.
Cuthalion · 8 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
“Yes,” Elladan said softly. “The Valar remind us of their presence in many ways – in the music of the waters, the life swelling in trees, and the radiance of the stars. Time passes slowly, and yet it does pass; Arda is ever in motion. Water overflows its banks to form new lakes, trees grow to maturity and fall to make room for new saplings... why might an ancient fragment of star not tumble to the earth once in a while?” This is almost poetry, and beautiful in a gentle (and very "elvish" way). And I tried to imagine Scamp, riding in a baby sling close to the son of Elrond, and that though makes me smile ever since. *still smiling* Cúthalion
Author's reply
Thank you so much. It's interesting to try to 'see' through the POV of an Elf. Hee, Scamp will get to enjoy that baby sling starting with the very next chapter. :)
Baggins Babe · 8 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
You’re much more at ease among animals now than when we first met,” Aragorn teased gently, as he and Frodo walked up the lane to Bag End. “I’m not a child anymore,” Frodo said, his voice a mixture of confidence and hope. “Indeed, you are not,” Aragorn said. “I doubt Bilbo would have given permission for you to accompany us on this journey had you not demonstrated to him that you have grown into a responsible lad. You have gained his respect, and his trust. And mine,” he added softly. “Thank you,” Frodo whispered, joy filling his heart. To know that those he most valued saw something of worth in him... there were few things that could make him any happier. Oh how lovely! Frodo full of joy and Aragorn revealing how much he trusts this most special hobbit. Perfect, Shirebound. And trust Sam to come up with the right thing for Scamp. I often bottle-fed orphan kittens and one was very tiny and premature. I carried him round rucked in a very tiny sling inside my t-shirt for weeks! People were very taken aback to see the tiny ginger face peeping out! ;-)
Author's reply
Frodo full of joy and Aragorn revealing how much he trusts this most special hobbit. Thank you so much for highlighting that part, BB. One of the main ideas behind "Quarantined" was to show the importance of Frodo (or any child) being valued... especially by those whom he values most. What a precious and lifelong gift for a sensitive lad. I've enjoyed expanding on this as the series goes on, and showing how he is maturing and growing -- while still retaining some uncertainties. Omigosh, how precious is that kitty-image! :)
Shemyaza · 7 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
It's a very strange thing, but I used to avoid hobbit stories for some reason until I started playing LOTR online and although I have an Elven character, I loved questing around the shire. It made me start reading hobbit driven stories and I like the start of yours. The beginning of a big adventure, all the more exciting because my character is now beginning quests in Evendim not far from where Annuminas is and the atmosphere of the game seems to spill over into your story. Please do continue it!
Author's reply
I'm so pleased you're enjoying this, Shemyaza. I finish every story I begin, and will most certainly be updating this one as frequently as 'real life' allows. There aren't many stories that take place in or around Lake Evendim, and it's challenging to imagine the scenery and atmosphere there in the late Third Age.
Grey Wonderer · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
This was excellent and leave it to Sam to think of the best way for Scamp to travel. And I laughed out loud at this part: (“That’s almost three thousand years ago!” Frodo marveled. “I wonder if that’s one of the reasons Bilbo so enjoys being amongst Elves... perhaps they make him feel younger.”) That was so like a young lad to say something of that nature. I am looking forward to more of this one!
Author's reply
Yes indeed, leave it to Sam! If there's a way to help Mr. Frodo, he'll find it. Thank you, GW. :)
Tigger · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
A baby sling!! Perfect!! Scamp will be comfortable and Frodo won't have worry about her being jostled on the way there and back. Elladan's education about hobbits continues. I'm sure he was very much surprised by the way he was treated and the hospitality shown to him by Frodo and Bilbo. Even though he's heard Aragorn and his father talk about their own experiences, learning things first hand is always the best. :o) I'm glad Aragorn got Frodo to take a nap. Poor thing needed it. Now...Let's get this adventure on the move!! :oD And thanks for hoping I feel better. Me too!! :o)
Author's reply
I promise, with the next chapter we dive right into the journey. Now I just have to write it! The series ("Quarantined") began with Aragorn being educated about hobbits, and it's been such a joy to expand that education to include Halbarad, his brother, and the occasional Elf. :) I'm so happy you're enjoying this, Tigger. You're such an enthusiastic, supportive reader.
Larner · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
Aha! A baby sling, and how appropriate! Trust Frodo to want to be helping everyone! A wonderful preparation here. And a bit of meteorite as well? Lovely!
Author's reply
Thank you. I'm so glad Sam is a clever lad, and Scamp will be glad, too. :)
Elwen · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
Yay! Another chapter. And I can hardly wait to see El with Scamp strapped to his chest.
Author's reply
Aragorn can't wait to see that, too. *grins*
lbilover · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
Yay, I'm so glad to see a new chapter of this wonderful story! I love the clever idea Sam came up with so that Scamp can ride comfortably on the journey with Frodo. And I particularly liked this line, as we know that Aragorn does indeed have healing magic: Perhaps there was some magic to Aragorn after all, as the old hobbit was fond of saying. I'm very much looking forward to the next part! Thank you :)
Author's reply
Sam is just ever so clever, isn't he? I'm so happy you're enjoying this gentle little adventure. :)
Andrea · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
“All right,” Frodo said reluctantly. “Thank you. I’ll go down and talk with the Gamgees after my nap. My *short* nap.” LOL!!! Those stubborn Bagginses! But even a Baggins needs his sleep once in a while ;-) I loved Sam's practical idea with the cloth. ...and that it’s not bein’ used currently, and all. Very practical and observing! So, once again: Scamp is a very lucky dog to start her first adventure in such luxury :) I'm looking forward to reading more!
Author's reply
Dear Sam with his plain hobbit sense. He and Frodo make a wonderful team. Thank you so much for highlighting the lines you enjoy. :)
Antane · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
He and his brother were born soon after the beginning of this Age,” Aragorn replied. “That’s almost three thousand years ago!” Frodo marveled. “I wonder if that’s one of the reasons Bilbo so enjoys being amongst Elves... perhaps they make him feel younger.” “Perhaps they do,” Aragorn agreed. Cute! Glad to see another chapter up! Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Thank you! It's fun to imagine what Estel and Frodo would talk about. :)
Amy · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
Hobbits bring out the homebody in me! I just love chapters like this, with wonderful-smelling stews and bread, and horses and ponies grazing, and taking naps and talking. I squeed at this point: "Perhaps there was some magic to Aragorn after all, as the old hobbit was fond of saying." I love all the stuff that Frodo's taking. I tend to overpack for camping as well; you never know when you might need extras in an emergency.
Author's reply
I just love chapters like this, with wonderful-smelling stews and bread, and horses and ponies grazing, and taking naps and talking. Isn't the Shire a lovely place to visit? No wonder Aragorn keeps going back. *grins*
Dreamflower · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
Aww...this is sweet! Poor Sam, left behind this time; but it's for the best, I think. I look forward to seeing them set off on their journey!
Author's reply
I'm very much looking forward to their journey, as well! I need to start plotting it out, since it begins in chapter 5. :)
aprilkat · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
Oh, good, Bilbo's well and they're on their way! Frodo is such a sweet and earnest young hobbit, and Sam certainly shows his noted resourcefulness even at such a young age!
Author's reply
They're on their way! The journey begins in chapter 5, which I need to start writing. What fun. :)
SurgicalSteel · 6 July 2007 · Chapter 4: The Hospitality of Hobbits
Ah, Frodo's growing up nicely, isn't he? His hospitality for Elladan, ability to pick supplies for a journey, consulting Sam - and carefully not asking for Sam to go when he knows the answer will be no. Lovely as always!
Author's reply
Thank you. I *am* trying to show Frodo's growth and maturity throughout this series, so thank you for mentioning that. :)
Tigger · 5 July 2007 · Chapter 3: An Enduring Hope
Sorry I didn't leave a review before this. Was away for a few days and then was really sick the last week on coming back. Anyway...Love, love, love this chapter, but especially for the talk between Elladan and Aragorn about Arwen. I can imagine that development would not have sat well w/Elladan and Elrohir either, but I could see them accepting it maybe a little easier than Elrond did. Not saying it would happen overnight, but I don't see the brothers being angry w/each other for a very long time. It is a shame Sam can't go, Scamp can? YAY!!! Why do I have a feeling that curious little nose is going to be making a huge difference once again? Hmmm? Looking forward to the next part in the journey. :oD
Author's reply
Thank you so much, Tigger. I hope you're feeling a little better. I think the twins' reactions to their sister's choice is an interesting thing to ponder; I'm glad you enjoyed that little conversation! I'm still hesitant in writing Elves. Scamp will not be denied! I'm glad she's going, too. :)
Linda Hoyland · 2 July 2007 · Chapter 3: An Enduring Hope
If I were Frodo, I'd want to ride with Aragorn too.You have me as excited as Frodo is about this journey !
Author's reply
I'm excited too, Linda. I love it when these two have gentle adventures together. :)