Keep Him Secret, Keep Him Safe by shirebound

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Lily Baggins · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

I'm going to join the swooning hoardes here. Yep. You probably have NO idea how much I yearn for Gandalf comforting Aragorn, and yet it's something we rarely see. So for Gandalf to be there offering the drink and gentle reassurances... I am in heaven. :) I wish there could be chapters and chapters of it! And oh my ... Aragorn lying there with tangled hair---I think maybe it needs a good brushing sometime, preferably by someone knowledgeable about brushing foothair, hee. Truly, adorable to have Frodo there lying curled up against him. I LOVED Frodo's dream! I want to join him for breakfast in that barrel---it sounds terribly entertaining. And as always, your hobbity banter is so enjoyable. Gosh, I adored this thought-provoking chapter!

Author's reply

Awwww, thanks, Lily. I'm already plotting the next banter-filled chapter, wheee. I love Gandalf as caregiver too, although that frustrating wizard just can't seem to learn to answer simple questions with simple answers. Poor Aragorn is going to remain a bit confused for awhile longer, I'm afraid. I think we'll have to do something about that tangled hair... maybe a nice bath...

Agape4Gondor · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

I think the thing I liked best about this chapter was the 'flashbacks' and dreams and such that assailed / comforted / hurt the characters. Well thought out. By the way, I'm ready for that massage from Elrohir any time - well, no, I'd probably faint... drat! And the 'creaky elderly relation' phrase was priceless! I can just imagine what a merry meal it was... And Frodo and Pip's reassurances for Elrohir. Nicely done chapter...

Author's reply

An Elvish massage! Let's all get in line... Thank you for your lovely comments.

Agape4Gondor · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

I loved Pip's taking Anduril and Elladan's hesitancy... Glad he gave it up to the Hobbit. I loved Elladan's appreciation of what Gimli did and what he will do for Minas Tirith! Poor Sam - Frodo is right - that's not the important thing here... except for Sam's love of Frodo... I sneezed once LOL I loved the conversation between the Twins in appraising Aragorn and what he'd been up to since the Quest began. Well written. Especially the blade reforged part! Frodo and Gandalf's conversation was another one that was really well written and felt good... And Frodo's falling asleep with Aragorn's hand in his... *heavy sigh*

Author's reply

Thank you. I love writing dialogue, and I'm glad you're enjoying it.

Agape4Gondor · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Great chapter. Good call by the Twins.... I so so hope Aragorn will accept some help... he's not the type, though! I loved Sam's outburst to Pippin! And Merry's telling one and all that he and Pip 'are knights, you know!' *giggles* I loved Merry's faith in Eomer! Nicely written. And Pip's vow to stand by his king, 'no matter' what.

Author's reply

Thank you so much! And you're right, it will take some persuading for Aragorn to accept the help that surrounds him on all sides.

Agape4Gondor · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 2: Safeguarded

I was a little surprised that Aragorn would have left Eomer in charge of the King's camp - being Rohirric might have been a detriment. Leaving Imrahil in charge, I think, would have been wiser... but I do love the Rohirrim - so go for it Eomer! And a wise decision nevertheless. I giggled when Legolas said he 'believed they saved' Frodo some supper. I love Frodo's thanks to the horse. Nice chapter indeed... though, of course, I'm wondering what on earth is wrong with Aragorn, but glad he will soon be in his brothers' hands! No better place in all of Middle-earth!

Author's reply

A good point about Imrahil, but I think Aragorn might have shown public respect for Eomer early on, by acknowledging his kingship and authority in every way possible. In any event, that's what works for this story. :)

lbilover · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

Another wonderful chapter, filled with love and comfort (your specialty :)) Elrohir's thoughts at the end were very moving. It's almost hard to imagine in this day and age, when we can communicate with each other instantaneously, how dreadful the waiting for news must have been.

Author's reply

It really must have been. And although Elrond had 'foresight', "even the wise cannot see all ends". The fate of Middle-earth hung by a thread while small hands did what they could. Thank you very much. :)

cookiefleck · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

I just read this, before breakfast, and now I am craving bacon and eggs, LOL! Very nice chapter... sweet.

Author's reply

Thank you. Nothing but the best for our hobbits. :)

Cairistiona · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

"The Man’s long hair was tangled, and he was slightly pale, but his sleep seemed deep and peaceful." *gulp* *swoon* Ahem. *getting a grip* Okay, sorry about that ... this was another sweet chapter. So many good moments: Aragorn finally waking up (love his confusion, and that among his first concerns is Andúril's whereabouts--very much in character, that), Gandalf ministering to him, Elrohir's interaction with the hobbits--especially the way in which he was nearly overcome when he thought of what might have been had the hobbits not succeeded. That was powerful. And um, the aforementioned bit about Strider's long, tangled hair ... I'm hopeless, what can I say! And thoroughly entertained by this tale. :)

Author's reply

Thank you!I rather enjoy the image of sleeping Aragorn myself...

Tithenaru · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

That was wonderful. I loved the interaction of Elrohir with all the hobbits. I suspect he's right though - in my experience healers rarely make good patients. Thank you for this Tithenaru

Author's reply

Thank *you*. I think the Elves would be quiet charmed by hobbits, but also quite respectful of what they were able to accomplish.

Cuthalion · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

Ah, beautiful. And now I want a massage by Elven hands, bacon and eggs and Aragorn to care for. *blushes*

Author's reply

I wouldn't mind having all those things, myself. :)

Neilia · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

In the keeping of the Hobbits, indeed! Such a restful and rich chapter. Hugs, Neilia

Author's reply

Thank you very much, Neilia.

grumpy · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Aragorn can not help but get better, surrounded by freinds and hobbits. Plus a hobbit hole has to be the best of places, lots of food and love.

Author's reply

I agree, Grumpy. Lucky Aragorn. :)

Grey Wonderer · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

(“I was so surprised to see you and Elladan here, in the South,” he said frankly. “Is anyone else here from Rivendell?” “Not yet,” Elrohir said cryptically. ) hehehe I like this bit here. More elves on the way shortly. This was wonderful and Gandalf was as close as ever and gave his usual confusing answers to everything! That Wizard should travel with a translator! You wrote him so well that I thought I was reading a lost portion of Tolkien's work. Glad to see more of this.

Author's reply

Thank you for such a lovely compliment. Yes, Elrohir told the truth, but only enough of it to answer Frodo's question. Poor Aragorn! He'll go on being a bit confused awhile longer. :)

Larner · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

Oh, Sauron would have LOVED to have that heir of Isildur in his hands! This is perhaps the best imprisonment--except for the capture of his heart by Arwen--Aragorn has known. He is surrounded by the best in love and caring, and no one could fault those surrounding him for the hospitality they will shower on him.

Author's reply

I'm so happy you agree. Aragorn will just have to somehow endure all kinds of pampering, comfort, and TLC. :)

pebbles66 · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

Lovely chapter! I love the hobbits' interrogation of Elrohir at breakfast, and the thought of Aragorn being a captive of hobbits!

Author's reply

Thanks, Pebbles. This whole scenario is a lot of fun.

Andrea · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

"My heart rejoices that my young brother finds himself a captive only of hobbits." And those hobbits are determined to give him all the rest he needs. But it might happen that when he feels better Aragorn might try to escape them ;-) Well, let's wait and see!

Author's reply

Yes, we'll have to see what type of patient Aragorn turns out to be! I suspect it's a rare occurrence for him.

6336 · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

Ah, he's awake at last, let's hope he is wise enough to follow 'Healer's orders' and rest and recuperate, I know Samom will take good care of him, he has had a lot of prctice with Frodo! Merry and Pip will help to keep him amused and Frodo will be there for him. The others will keep him up to date on what is going on around camp, so all should be well. Lynda

Author's reply

Aragorn is certainly a wise and patient man, qualities which hopefully will allow him to endure this unexpected confinement.

Dreamflower · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

“My heart rejoices that my young brother finds himself a captive only of hobbits." Shirebound this is delightful! I love how cozy everything is--and I can think of a great many worse fates than being a captive of hobbits--in fact, I can't think of a better one! I really liked Frodo's dream--bringing in Bilbo, and the way it morphed into the waking world, the way dreams often do. And Elrohir is so thoughtful--you can really tell he's Elrond's son. He's kind as summer as well!

Author's reply

Yes, as fates go, this one is rather delightful! We learn so little about Elrond's sons from the books, so it's a wonderful challenge to bring them to life, each in our own way.

harrowcat · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

I loved all of this Shirebound but, oh, that last bit.... WOW!

Author's reply

Thank you!

julchen11 · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 5: In the Keeping of the Hobbits

Thank you, sweetie, for this wonderful chapter. It's very peaceful, encouraging and so lovingly written. You made my day, lovey. *sighs and dreams*

Author's reply

I'm very happy that peace and love shines through and makes you feel good. :)

Cuthalion · 1 July 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

The last paragraph is pure, blissful comfort. Thank you for giving this to us (and Frodo is very reasonable, isn't he? If he acknowledges that early that Sméagol had to play his role, and that not being able to play the Rinbearer's part to the bitter end wasn't his - Frodo's - fault, many plotbunnies for darkest post-Ring War-angst have to flee back to the abyss of dark imaginations... *grins*) Mona

Author's reply

Oh yes, flee back to the abyss, angst-bunnies! Thank you, Mona. With that big bed available, how could I deny Frodo all that comfort? :)

Antane · 21 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Not only should everyone have a hobbit in their care, but everyone should be cared for by hobbits! What a wonderful world that would be if we could love and care as much as they do. Aragorn will be better in no time. Love Frodo's unconsciously twisting his fingers in Gandalf's cloak. Namarie, God bless, Antane :)

Author's reply

Oh I agree, Antane. What a wonderful world that would be! But we can create it in our imaginations, and maybe that's the place to start.

Neilia · 21 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

By the Fire, indeed. Just what they all need. The Fellowship resting together in a 'Hobbity' tent, eating and laughing and crying and sleeping...I can just picture it. It will be the best medicine for Aragorn ever. *sigh* Lovely, really lovely. Hugs, Neilia

Author's reply

Awww, thank you, Neilia. It's good 'medicine' for me, too, to imagine them all together, comforting and supporting one another. *hugs you back*

Lily Baggins · 20 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Oh, this is darling!!! Frodo climbing onto the bed and taking Aragorn's limp hand . . . *dies* I so love to see the respect and trust and friendship between them. And eeeeeeeeeee, such nice comfort for Aragorn here, being tended and watched over and fed broth and undressed and put to bed. *blissful sigh* LOL at all the beds that will be in that tent soon--there'll be no walking space! The entire Fellowship will just have to lie about to talk to each other. :) Not that that's a bad thing, by any means. I can't help but wonder what Aragorn's reaction will be when he wakes up---will he be weak? Healed? Tired? Ill? And I can only imagine the guilt Frodo is feeling. This loyal reader thanks you for a lovely chapter!

Author's reply

This loyal writer is very grateful for the whole idea you set in motion, Lily! And you know that if there was *any* plausible way to get Frodo into that bed, I would leap at it. I'm just thrilled you're enjoying this. *hugs you*

Grey Wonderer · 20 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Poor Frodo, worried that he and Sam may have taken all of Aragorn's energy. And it's so different to think of Aragorn as the patient. He does seem to be in very good hands though. I'm enjoying this one very much.

Author's reply

I'm so happy you're enjoying this. With all the TLC flying around, it's certainly enjoyable for *me* to imagine and write! :)