The Vault of Annúminas by shirebound
Cuthalion · 12 September 2007 · Chapter 9: A Cup of Stars
Until the King comes back, hm? Lovely chapter. Can't wait to see more! (And the image of Aragorn, walking barefoot along the sea shore, throwing sticks for a tiny pup, really made my day. *smiles*) Mona
Author's reply
Thank you, Mona. I can see this all so clearly. Wish we could all visit the lake ourselves!
aprilkat · 12 September 2007 · Chapter 9: A Cup of Stars
Ooh, the plot thickens. They were meant to be just there to find the door, I hope! Your description of the lost land is so pleasing and yet melancholy, and that seems to be Aragorn's mood.
Author's reply
I hope so, too! Aragorn must go through so many periods of faltering hope, and deep longing for all that he dreams of. Since he took the name of Thorongil earlier in his life, I would think that eagles would have a great significance to him.
Antane · 12 September 2007 · Chapter 9: A Cup of Stars
"Let’s just stay here and set up an inn,” Frodo said. “The Ranger, Elf, and Hobbit, eh?” Aragorn chuckled. “Do you think we’d get any customers?” “Absolutely. And it would be The Hobbit, the Elf, and the Ranger, of course.” Frodo smiled dreamily. “Weren’t the mushrooms scrumptious? I saw hundreds growing beneath the trees; there must be whole fields of them nearby. Hobbits would flock here if the roads were better.” :) As far as doubting the meaning of that dream - Elladan doesn't know the power and truth of Frodo's dreams and the hand that Iluvatar has always had in his life, but I bet he's about to find out! I'm sure myself. Love the image of the cup of stars and of course, Frodo's excitement about the signs in the sky and his jumping with a whoop into the water. :) Namarie, God bless, Antane
Author's reply
Glad you're enjoying this! I remain fascinated by how often Tolkien refers to Frodo's dreams of incredible clarity and foresight. It truly set him apart among his fellow hobbits.
Andrea · 12 September 2007 · Chapter 9: A Cup of Stars
“The Ranger, Elf, and Hobbit, eh?” Aragorn chuckled. “Do you think we’d get any customers?” “Absolutely. And it would be The Hobbit, the Elf, and the Ranger, of course.” Frodo smiled dreamily. LOL!!! Great chapter, shirebound. I love Frodo's enthusiasm! And the secret door! I'm quite sure they will find something up there! Last, but not least, I'd like to quote a review, for a change, by SurgicalSteel: That's the way things work for Bagginses on Quests. Great observation! I totally agree!
Author's reply
I suspect they'll find *something*, but we'll just have to see. There *is* a Baggins involved, after all. Thank you, Andrea. :)
lbilover · 12 September 2007 · Chapter 9: A Cup of Stars
What a beautifully descriptive chapter, this is. It was such a sad and touching moment when the eagle appeared, knowing what *we* know about Aragorn. In fact, I just love how all the stories in this universe hint at future events in these characters' lives. And now I'm doubly curious to find out about the hidden door!
Author's reply
Aragorn has lived a long time with his secret hopes and dreams; perhaps the eagle's continued anticipation of a King's return is an inspiration to him. That hidden door, yessss....
Elwen · 12 September 2007 · Chapter 9: A Cup of Stars
The foreshadowing of Aragorn's kingship is so lovingly woven into this chapter. And Frodo is such a perfect young boy in this in his eagerness.
Author's reply
Thank you. I imagine young Frodo as bursting with energy, imagination, and eagerness to see and do whatever is possible.
EllyBaggins · 12 September 2007 · Chapter 9: A Cup of Stars
now i'm intrigued! can't wait for the next chapter! you're descriptions always make places sound so idylic :)
Author's reply
Thank you. Wouldn't it be wonderful to go there?
SurgicalSteel · 12 September 2007 · Chapter 9: A Cup of Stars
Silly Elf and Ranger, of course Frodo's having his dream about the bowl and the stars at exactly the right time for something to be found. :) That's the way things work for Bagginses on Quests. I like the fact that there's a Hallow in Annuminas, just as there's the high place where the Tree will eventually be found outside of Minas Tirith. Lovely as always, and I can't wait to see what they find!
Author's reply
Yes, our Elf and Ranger still have much to learn about the Luck of the Bagginses, don't they? I thought a lot about the hallow on Numenor, and the one near Minas Tirith. It just makes sense that the Kings of the West would keep that tradition in whatever city they founded. Thank you for following along. :)
Lindelea · 12 September 2007 · Chapter 9: A Cup of Stars
Ooo, how exciting! The early part of the chapter is just the sort of holiday I'd like to have... Scamp reminds me of a dog I know. (The Writing Partner, the last time the small ones gave her a bath, took herself off to the compost heap for a delicious roll halfway through the process. As her hair was grown long at the time, of course there were lots of bits and pieces sticking to her waves and curls, and quite a chore it was to finish the bathing process... She is shaved nearly to the skin at the moment, much more comfortable for overly warm weather, and easier to clean as well.) I love the banter about the name of the inn, and the mystery of the cup and hidden treasure and the stars and the hallows... Looking forward to more!
Author's reply
I would love to organize a holiday for everyone at Lake Evendim. If only...! Dogs do love to smell just the way they like, and not the way *we* like, don't they? It's fun to write about Scamp's part in this little adventure. I'm so glad you're enjoying the story.
grumpy · 10 September 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Ok, you have sold me, my next camping trip is to Lake Evendim. You have made it sound like a place I would love to see. Would be even better if some hunky rangers and elves, were there at the same time.
Author's reply
I'm starting to crave a camping trip as well. Shall we all meet by the lake and sing songs, and tell brave tales?
harrowcat · 1 September 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Such a wonderful sight is worth losing a little sleep, although I prefer to specialize in watching sunsets over the moors and sea! Great chapter Shirebound.
Author's reply
Oooh, sunset over the sea is also lovely. Thank you, Harrowcat! :)
Baggins Babe · 31 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
What an absolutely beautiful chapter! The description of the sun rising over Lake Evendim was utterly perfect and deeply moving. Strangely enough, I'm describing the dawn in the next chapter of 'A Birthday...........' Scamp and Frodo are having a wonderful adventure and Elladan singing to greet the dawn was a gorgeous image.
Author's reply
I'm so happy you enjoyed greeting the dawn with our sweet hobbit and his friends. What fun it was trying to imagine and describe this scene.
Linda Hoyland · 31 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
What a beautiful chapter. I recently was writing a story for a prompt on "Dawn" and wish I could have thought of something so stunning !I like the idea of more Numenorean plants around. I hope Aragorn can restore the North once King.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda. I think Annuminas will someday rise again, perhaps under King Elessar's rule.
Amy · 30 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Wow, I really loved Elladan singing to the dawn, and seeing Annuminas through Frodo's eyes. I love this road trip!
Author's reply
Thank you, Amy. Frodo will never forget this experience, and it's such fun to take this journey with them.
Cuthalion · 30 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Oh Janet, how beautiful. The moment when the sun rises... absolutely wondrous. *smiles with delight* Mona
Author's reply
Eeeee, thank you. :)
Shemyaza · 30 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Write faster dammit! :D Seriously, every time I read this story and play LOTRO it brings it all alive to me. Your description of Lake Nenuial at sunrise is so much like the way it looks in the game it's staggering. The only difference is that the city of Annuminas is more or less still there, but for gameplay purposes is alternately occupied by Angmarim warriors (enemy) or Rangers. The way into the elegant game design of the city is along the shoreline of the lake and as you get closer towards the half ruined spires and building still standing, the way is lined with tall trees and the tombs of the kings and royal family. The courtyard entrance to Annuminas is occupied by enemy warriors and you have to fight your way through to the centre of the city to the safe spot. I am not quite at a level where I can fight these off, but the whole of Evendim is stunning. You're probably wondering why I am saying all of this, but to be honest, your story and my game experience bring it all to life. When you described Aragorn, Frodo and Elladan waiting on top of the hill for the sun to come up, I was there with them. In fact I am travelling every step of the way with them which is why I say again.... Write faster dammit! :)
Author's reply
How interesting, Shemyaza. I've never played a single video or role-playing game in my life, and it sounds like a world in which you can really immerse yourself. I'm happy to be contributing to your experience! I can't promise a fast appearance of chapter 9, due to restoring my computer after a hard drive meltdown and an out-of-town guest -- which means very little writing time -- but I'll update again as soon as possible.
Lindelea · 30 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Ah, beautiful, and so clearly described. And now, going to join whomever in sleep. (yawns with Frodo)
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda. *joins you in a snooooze* Author Reply: Ooops, I meant to thank you, Lindelea! I should never type at 4:20 a.m. :)
Tigger · 29 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Oh my....What a lovely scene that would have been. I know what it's like to see a sunrise on the mountains thanks to a trip to Alberta and BC when I was 11, but I can't imagine how glorious that sunrise must have looked to Frodo, Aragorn and Elladan. I can however imagine how Frodo must have felt by being woken up so early. :oD They've made it. Pup and all. Now for the real adventure to begin. :oD Lovely update Shirebound. Can't wait for the next chapter. :oD
Author's reply
I'm usually driving to work at sunrise, and it's a beautiful time of day. But a sleepy one! They've made it! I'm glad you're enjoying this so much. :)
Dreamflower · 29 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
What a wonderfully poetic bit of scene setting! This is a wonderful passage: As Frodo watched, enraptured, the valley and hills lit up. What he had thought was black ground was black no longer, and most definitely not solid ground; the reflected stars faded, and in their place was clear Lake Evendim, on fire with a golden radiance. The lake spread before them, mile after mile, glittering in the sun and beautiful enough to take Frodo’s breath away. Vast areas of water were covered with what looked like white sheets of ice, but which Elladan explained were thousands of birds, resting in this peaceful sanctuary. The valley in which it lay, spreading eastward to the sparkling Brandywine and beyond, was dotted with meadows, beautiful groves of ancient trees, and tiny streams. From where they sat, the hills continued to the west and north, surrounding the lake in a great half-circle. Frodo could see the Blue Mountains, home of the Dwarves who dwelt on the border of Eriador. And further west, beyond his sight, would be... I love Frodo's frank and open wonder and curiousity in this! I think it is so much how he would have been, before the Ring--ready to learn something new at every turn! And I love the interaction between him and Estel and Elladan, as well. The part at the beginning about the "sleepy tween" was amusingly cute, and so very true to life!
Author's reply
Thank you. I find dialogue much easier to write than descriptions, so I truly appreciate your words. Yes, even sweet Frodo isn't immune to being cranky in the morning. :)
Andrea · 29 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Beautifully described, shirebound! Through hobbits' eyes Lake Evendim must indeed have looked as huge as the Sea. When I saw the Sea for the very first time, I was already 16 years old. Can you imagine that? I was fascinated and I can understand very well Frodo's fascination with that huge lake! So, now I'm looking forward to seeing if Estel is able to draw that famous bow!
Author's reply
Thank you, Andrea. Our family visited the ocean many times when I was a child, but I was frightened of it for a long time. I think our three (four, including Scamp) travellers are going to have a lovely time at the lake... and perhaps an interesting time, as well. :)
Larner · 29 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
A good reason to lose a bit of sleep. Too bad it's fed from ice floes--I'd like to swim there, also, I suspect. And it does sound beautiful.
Author's reply
The next time you drop by Middle-earth, bring your wetsuit! :)
Antane · 29 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
So nice to see another chapter with him happy and innocent and curious and excited about being the first hobbit to see such things. :) Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Thank you, Antane. In this 'world', Frodo is all of those things. :)
lbilover · 29 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Oh lovely! I could just see the lake glimmering with stars, and then slowly being revealed by the sun while Elladan sang and the birds joined in. What a gorgeous image! Thank you for another wonderful chapter.
Author's reply
Thank you so much. I had a wonderful time trying to imagine the view from that hill.
aprilkat · 29 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
This is so gorgeously described. I want to go there! It was amusing that Frodo is like any other sleepy tween. :D
Author's reply
Thank you. How I wish we could *all* go there. Frodo is rather sweet and well-mannered in my stories, but a sleepy tween is a grumpy tween! :)
Pearl Took · 29 August 2007 · Chapter 8: Lake Evendim
Very beautiful, shirebound. I wish I was there :-)
Author's reply
Me too, Pearl!