Andrea
· 5 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
Nonetheless, he realized that Pippin needed to check for himself that his king and friend was safe.
Knight of the City, indeed! That's our Pippin, always on duty and very protective of Aragorn.
Aragorn enjoyed his bath, it seems. That's good. But he can't stop worrying about Frodo, whereas Frodo can't stop worrying about Aragorn. That's the problem with those two.
Maybe, the little feast will provide them with some distraction! I really hope so.
Author's reply
I can absolutely imagine Pippin standing by Strider, no matter what.
Yes, I think a feast is definitely in order to distract everyone. Those hobbits are so clever.
Pearl Took
· 5 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
It will trouble Aragorn for a long while that he lost Halbarad.
I hope they all get to have an enjoyable evening :-)
Author's reply
So do I! I need to get to work on that.
Thank you, Pearl.
Pearl Took
· 5 September 2008
· Chapter 8: Making Progress
Just what Frodo needs, something else to feel guilty about.
I'm glad Strider is accepting help better.
Author's reply
Strider is definitely learning something from the hobbits' example. I love it when that happens. :)
Pearl Took
· 5 September 2008
· Chapter 7: Kings of Men
Food, drink and entertainment - hobbits are so wise!
Aragorn indeed has a trusted friend in Eomer.
Author's reply
Thanks, Pearl. I'm very taken by the instant bond between Aragorn and Eomer. Eomer's keen perception of 'quality' in an individual turned out to be quite pivotal to events unfolding as they did.
Pearl Took
· 5 September 2008
· Chapter 6: When Life Gives You Lemons...
“What’s wrong, Mr. Frodo?” Sam asked.
“Nothing,” Frodo smiled. “Sorry, Sam. I know you wouldn’t put any lemon in here.”
“In tea!” Sam said with delight. “Sir, what a wonderful idea!”
LOL LOL LOL
Very well done!
Yes, it is best that Merry and Pippin take the upper bunk.
Author's reply
Dear Sam. Once he's fixated on something, there's no getting around it! :)
Pearl Took
· 5 September 2008
· Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits
A lovely chapter. Aragorn will have trouble resting as much as he should, I'm sure.
I loved all the questions from the hobbits :-)
Author's reply
Thanks, Pearl. These particular hobbits are rather unquenchable when it comes to getting information out of folks (such as wizards or elves) who have information that interests them! :)
Ainu Laire
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
Very enjoyable, as usual. Even though Frodo is obviously having guilt issues, and Aragorn has problems, himself, I still love that the whole premise of the story is based around love and caring. All your writings are, really, even the darker ones. You are one of the only writers that I truly feel the sense of fellowship all of these characters had with one another. So beautiful.
I'm glad Aragorn has learned humility. It's alright to accept help when you are down. :) It's wonderful to see Pippin on his guard and to be taking his duties so seriously.. I can only imagine how heart broken he would be if something happened while he was on watch. But even with duty is still that sense of love.. which just makes it all the better.
I'm rereading LOTR right now for my college class (best college class ever, I would have you know), and the whole bathing scene and talk of baths reminds me of the scene at Crickhollow, with all the singing and such. So very joyful.
So yes. I'm still reading and still loving it, even if my reviews are rather sporadic. As always, looking forward to the next installment.
Author's reply
I appreciate that very much, Suvi. It's the bond between these unlikely friends -- including respect, loyalty, courage, resilience, and what they can learn from one another -- that makes LOTR such a rich and deep story in which to find endless inspiration.
How wonderful to be re-visiting Middle-earth for a college class! :D
Lily Baggins
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
I've not read Aragorn actually taking a bath in too many fics---at least, not when he's practically an invalid---and enjoyed this *immensely.* Words cannot convey. Eee, hair washing!!!
I loved it all, especially his considerate washing before actually entering the bathtub so that the hobbits could have clean water. So sweet---and I can just picture said hobbits fighting over that bathtub. Well, maybe not---didn't we read that it would fit them all at once? Hee.
I really enjoyed every bit of Aragorn's weakness---I'm so glad his recovery is slow. ;D So delicious, seeing him swaying and his knees buckling, I tell you.
I'm really looking forward to Aragorn's talk with Frodo . . . and I wonder just how he'll convince that stubborn hobbit that his guilt is unfounded.
Author's reply
You encourage me, Lily! I'm dying to get the story back to Frodo, but just couldn't rush Aragorn through his long-awaited bath.
I need to give their talk some serious thought. If only there were more hours in the day to do nothing but think about hobbits and rangers... as you well know. *hugs you*
Lily Baggins
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 8: Making Progress
*Sam blushed, but Frodo’s reaction was unexpected. Reminded again of his and Sam's long sleep, and what it had cost Aragorn to ensure their healing, he felt tears welling up and hastily turned away.*
Oh my . . . I just love that part. Frodo is just so easily touched and sensitive, and I can well imagine how upset he'd be that someone sacrificed their health to save him. I'm very curious and eager to see how Aragorn (and any others) deal with this and put Frodo's guilt at ease.
And as always, the bits with a dizzy, fainting Aragorn are wonderful! Helpless, unable to stand up on his own . . . delicious.
Poor Frodo is going to have those lemon trees in the Shire if it kills Sam, won't he? Maybe Frodo could learn to love lemon pie or cake, lol! Though as someone who dislikes everything lemon-flavored myself (I'll make an *occasional* exception for lemonade), I can't blame Frodo at all!!!
I'm sorry it's taken me so long to review this chapter---I've been very behind in my reading.
Author's reply
Thank you, Lily. There are so many examples in canon of Frodo attempting to spare his friends worry, trouble, or danger, I can't imagine him not reacting strongly to discovering Aragorn's latest selfless act on his (and Sam's) behalf.
I have to side with Sam on the lemon issue! I *love* the taste and smell of them, and always have. Maybe Frodo will learn to at least endure them. :)
Linda Hoyland
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
A lovely chapter full of good things. I'm glad Aragorn enjoyed his bath . The twins cared for him so lovingly.I'm glad Halbarad is mentioned,I have a soft spot for him.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda. I've enjoyed writing about Halbarad ever since "Force of Nature", and hope to do so again someday.
cookiefleck
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
About time someone cleaned up that ranger (although he looked better scruffy in the films, IMO.. ha ha). I liked best the part where he smells the food cooking... I could smell it, too. In fact, you've made me hungry! Good job with this chapter.
Author's reply
He absolutely looked better scruffy in the films! But at least now he's clean-scruffy.
Thank you, Cookie. Let's both go find something yummy to eat.
Inzilbeth
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
As always there are so many wonderful moments in your tales. On top of all those mentioned already: Pippin's devotion, Halbarad, Frodo's concern, and that towel of course, I loved that Elladan felt the need to remind Aragorn that he must dress suitably for his coronation.
Thank you for another great chapter.
Author's reply
Thank you very much. The small, quiet moments (such as Pippin's talk with Elladan, or Aragorn allowing himself to grieve his kinsman) can sometimes have the most meaning.
Antane
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
Don't you just love Pippin? :) And I hope the four of them enjoy their upcoming bath and I look forward also to that talk Aragorn wants to have with Frodo. Thanks for another chapter.
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Thank you! I'm looking forward to that talk, as well. I just need to find time to listen in and hear what they're saying... :)
Cairistiona
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
"Aragorn let his towel drop."
*goggling*
Ahem ... sorry.
So much to like in this chapter, aside from the obvious ... ahem ...
*pulling mind back to the matter at hand*
I love Pippin's sense of duty here. Such valor in these hobbits! To think that he isn't satisfied with the hoards of soldiers everywhere around them and has to check things out for himself really does show his quality, doesn't it?
And Halbarad ... oh, you brought in Halbarad! I confess that he's my favorite "least written" character in Tolkien and, yes, Aragorn's grief must have been tremendous at losing his friend. Even that he will live on in song and legend doesn't take away the sting of losing him, of having him by his side to laugh with and sing with and simply *be* with.
Lovely chapter, as usual ....
*drifting back to that one lovely sentence ...*
Author's reply
Glad you enjoyed this! Our hobbits continue to show their quality, whatever the circumstances in which they find themselves, and it's fun to find new ways for them to show it. And poor Aragorn never really got a chance to grieve properly. This enforced "rest" is a good opportunity for him to do so.
lbilover
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
I think I have an extra appreciation for that bath right now, and how wonderful it must have felt for Aragorn. :) Aragorn never stops thinking of others, not even for a second, does he? Pippin is so dear in this, and Gimli, too. I can picture him, holding the hobbits enthralled with his tale. Another wonderful chapter! Thank you.
Author's reply
I hope you'll be writing a lot of appreciative-bath!fic. :)
Thank you very much. I love imagining these things.
6336
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
Finally Aragorn gets his bath, he does clean up good dosen't he!
It is amazing how much is written about Halbarad, he only merits a few lines in the books, but look at how much has been woven about him!
More please,
Lynda
Author's reply
I'm very pleased when Halbarad's character is 'fleshed out'. For Aragorn to have greeted him with such exuberance in The Two Towers says a lot for their friendship and loyalty to one another.
Larner
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
Ah, bless them indeed. Dear Pippin, seeking to further assure the safety of his King, and Frodo with his guilt, and Gimli seeking to distract the Hobbits, and Sam for his general practicality, and Legolas for his subtle humor, and Merry just for being Merry and wishing to keep all of them safe! Yes, this is our crew!
As for Gandalf--he's a blessing just in and of himself!
Author's reply
Everyone is doing his best, which is one of the themes I love about LOTR.
Dreamflower
· 4 September 2008
· Chapter 9: Knights of the City
This story continues to delight with the evidence of everyone's love and loyalty to Aragorn, and with his own continuing concern for those *he* loves as well.
I adored Pippin double-checking the camp, and the subtle yet important topic of Arwen.
And Halbarad will indeed, be missed.
Author's reply
Thank you, Dreamflower. You know I can't resist writing about Fellowship bonding, love, and respect.
Pippin may not know what a "knight" is, or even been assigned official duties, but he's doing his best to live up to his new appointment!
pipinheart
· 1 September 2008
· Chapter 8: Making Progress
Very nice...
Poor Aragorn, he is ill, but he has the help of brother's and friends. Frodo is upset, but is he really just upset over hearing that Aragorn depleated hiself help him and sam or is there more to it.
Nice job..update soon
Author's reply
Thank you, Pipinheart. Both Aragorn and Frodo have the love and support of their friends, and I wouldn't have it any other way. :)
Grey Wonderer
· 25 August 2008
· Chapter 8: Making Progress
Poor Frodo! Maybe the party will do something to lift his spirits as well as keeping Aragorn busy and distracted. Or maybe he will get a turn in that tub that all of the hobbits except Merry seem very interested in. Loved Pippin's offer to make sure it was safe and for a minute there I thought perhaps Aragorn really hadn't bathed in a while! LOL Still enjoying this very much.
Author's reply
Thanks, GW! Pippin is ever-vigilant, and ever-intrigued by the thought of a refreshing bath to splash around in.
Grey Wonderer
· 25 August 2008
· Chapter 7: Kings of Men
I have no idea how I fell behind! Two chapters to enjoy and Merry is planning a party. I loved the way everyone was busy seeing to things while the King is ill and it's fun to watch the Hobbits and the Twins take charge.
Author's reply
It's fun for me, too... and Aragorn is beginning to enjoy himself. :)
harrowcat
· 25 August 2008
· Chapter 8: Making Progress
There is a saying that goes something like; 'he who easvesdrops seldom hears good about himself.' Poor Frodo, it is always hard to accept that our best friends will put their own interests aside to help us.
Love the idea of lemon trees in the Shire but someone will need to invent greenhouses first! Middle Earth certainly didn't have to worry about global warming.
Author's reply
No global warming, but the Shire occupies a cooler climate area than Gondor. I assume that southern crops taken north would need unusual care.
Keeping the Ring a secret for so many years probably trained Frodo to keep a lot of other things secret, as well. But sometimes your friends can encourage you to let some of it out. :)
lbilover
· 24 August 2008
· Chapter 8: Making Progress
Eep, I was a few chapters behind, but I'm happily caught up now. I love Sam's determination to grow lemons in the Shire. :)
And I loved this exchange between Frodo and Sam so very much:
“There’s no shame in being carried, Strider,” Sam said firmly. “Mr. Frodo let me carry him for a bit out there, and sometimes you need your friends to get where you’re going, if you take my meaning.” Worried that he might be overstepping his bounds, he turned away abruptly.
“He's absolutely right,” Frodo said with a gentle smile. He walked over to Sam and put a hand on his arm. “We all need help from time to time, don’t we? Without you, dear Sam, it all would have been for nothing.”
“You carried that foul thing all the way from the Shire, sir,” Sam protested. “It was just there at the end, that...” His voice broke, and Frodo embraced him in silence before stepping to the front of the tent and waving to someone."
That was so lovely.
Poor Frodo takes so much on himself, and I felt sad for him at the end of this chapter, but I'm sure you'll make sure he is comforted very well indeed!
Author's reply
I'm having such fun with Sam and his dreams of lemon orchards. A gardener must have something new to experiment with once in awhile!
You can be sure that Frodo will be the recipient of all the comfort he deserves. I wouldn't have it any other way. :)
Cuthalion
· 24 August 2008
· Chapter 8: Making Progress
As the sun set, three Elves, one Dwarf, Éomer, Merry, and even Gandalf formed a line from the nearby stream and passed buckets along until the tub was more than half full of water.
Delightful idea! And two elves and the King of Rohan, "preparing for battle" to get the Estel of his people into the hot water, made me grin. Wonderfully written - thank you!
Cúthalion
Author's reply
Awwww, thank *you*! I think this particular 'battle' is one that Elladan and Elrohir may have fought with their many mortal brothers over the years.
grumpy
· 23 August 2008
· Chapter 7: Kings of Men
Hmmmmmmm, how to get a ranger to get into the bathtub, I supose telling him that it has strawberry smelling bubbles, will not work.
I could really use Gimli arround my house, could I borrow him for a few days, I will get beer.
Author's reply
I think we could *all* use a Gimli now and then! He'd be booked years in advance for his handyman skills.