Keep Him Secret, Keep Him Safe by shirebound

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Grey Wonderer · 20 June 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

This is excellent. I love the way the hobbits are getting ready to take care of Aragorn. I also like all of the teasing that Pippin has been doing in this bit and poor Gandalf certainly did get hit with questions and advice when he arrived! I think Aragorn will have plenty of 'healers' taking care of him.

Author's reply

Thanks, GW! I try never to miss a chance to slip in some hobbity banter, and poor Gandalf has certainly learned to endure it (with love, I'm sure). :)

Grey Wonderer · 20 June 2008 · Chapter 2: Safeguarded

So the nasty rain didn't wait! Now things may be even worse but I am glad the twins were the ones sent to get Aragorn. I loved Legolas's wording of 'the truth' here. Very clever folk, Elves. And so like Frodo to remember to thank the horse for his part in all of it.

Author's reply

Thank you. I like it when everyone needs to work together in true 'Fellowship' mode. And as we've seen in the Professor's tale, even the horses have their parts to play.

Grey Wonderer · 20 June 2008 · Chapter 1: Without Warning

I've had this one on my 'wish to read' list for a while now and am glad to have a chance to begin it tonight. I like the idea of Frodo to the rescue. I do hope he is in time before the weather turns. In Aragorn's present state bad weather is not at all what he needs.

Author's reply

Frodo to the rescue! It *is* fun for it to be Aragorn as the one in need of rescue, isn't it? :)

Pearl Took · 20 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Oh this is good, shirebound! I love the thinking back over all Aragorn had done and coming to the conclusion that he is thoroughly exhausted. And Frodo's response is just right as well. I love him reminding himself of Gandalf's words about Gollum having a part to play. Wonderful!

Author's reply

Thank you! Even Aragorn has his limits, even if he didn't know he did.

Andrea · 20 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

“Why do you need to stay in the tent, Frodo?” Elrohir asked. “Legolas had an idea to explain why Aragorn is here,” Frodo replied. “It’s because Frodo’s sick,” Merry explained, “even if he isn’t. Although he WAS sneezing.” LOL!!! I like cousinly conversations like this one. No real sleep since Lorien? No wonder, Aragorn collapsed! So, he put himself into a healing sleep? That sounds logical. He's one of the greatest among the healers of Middle Earth. And now that Frodo is by his side, he will have all the peace and quiet he needs to recover - and Frodo, too.

Author's reply

I love cousinly conversations, too! :) I think this period of 'enforced rest' will be a very healing time for them both.

Tigger · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Frodo touched Aragorn’s face and was relieved that it felt neither chilled nor fevered. Aragorn didn’t stir, but Frodo felt that he might know, somehow, that a friend was near. Setting aside troubling thoughts for a time, he took one of the large hands in his own and finally drifted towards sleep. Sigh...Too, too sweet for words. Poor Frodo now having to deal w/his own guilt of realizing that saving him also has a factor into Aragorn's illness...Yes, he would be eased by curling up in the big bed w/Aragorn's hand in his. So...Aragorh sent himself into a healing sleep. Interesting concept and one that's believable. After all, if the last few months and weeks have strenghtened his healing gifts, this would also be one of those underlying ablities/gifts. Every healer has his/her breaking point after all. Loved Pippin wanting to take Anduril and place it where Aragorn would see it when he woke. Yes, few were allowed to handle that particular sword, but I think anyone who had the high regard of Aragorn would be able to touch/handle Anduril w/out anything happening to themselves. Pippin would w/out a doubt be one of those special people. Sigh...So enjoying this and can't wait for the next installment!! :oD

Author's reply

Thank you, Tigger. And I'm so appreciative to know that the concept of Aragorn sending himself into a healing sleep (even subconsciously) is a believable one. When I started writing this story, I hadn't yet known he would do that! :)

Linda Hoyland · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

I loved the way the twins reminded us of just how much Aragorn has achieved. I hope these great healers will warn the eager to help Hobbits that it is dangerous to try to coax an unconsious person to swallow. As Aragorn cares for so many,it lovely he is now being cared for so devotedly.A lovely chapter.

Author's reply

"Devotedly" is a good word. Even the mightiest need to learn their limits, and the UNlimited devotion of their friends and loved ones.

Esquire_of_Rohan · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Very good! I am enjoying this.

Author's reply

Thank you. I'm so glad.

Larner · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

And I'm certain this joint rest will be healing for both sides. Ah, our Frodo! Aragorn needs your presence now as you needed his, I think. And both shall be better for it in the end.

Author's reply

I agree, Larner; this might be a fortuitous chance for them both to get the rest they needed, but didn't *know* that they needed.

Dreamflower · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Frodo and Sam were tireless in trying to think of ways to help. They sat next to the bed and spoke or read softly to him, washed his face, and even tried to coax a bit of broth down his throat. Merry ran errands and messages back and forth between Éomer, Imrahil, and the beech-grove, and Pippin divided his time between standing guard outside the tent next to the King’s standard, which Legolas had brought; patrolling the perimeter of the grove; or visiting the encampment to spend time with the wounded or members of the King’s Guard with whom he had grown quite friendly. Once more you show the individualities of the hobbits, as each responds in his own way to the need to be of help. It was no wonder Frodo was listening in to Elladan's and Elrohir's conversation--I'm sure it worried him a lot to know how much Aragorn had been putting forth! Poor Frodo--something else for him to feel guilty about. But I have a feeling that things will be looking up soon. A lovely chapter, dear!

Author's reply

I'm very glad the individuality of the hobbits is coming through. I see them as quite unique people, with different gifts and points of view. But at the core, they're still... hobbits. :) Thank you!

Lindelea · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Awww. Your h/c just keeps getting better. I like especially the image of Frodo watching over Aragorn, hoping he knows a friend is near.

Author's reply

Thank you so much! :)

Jay of Lasgalen · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

I'm really enjoying this, and the characterisations of all concerned. Somehow I can't be too worried about Aragorn if his brothers are caring for him! Jay

Author's reply

Thank you, Jay. Aragorn probably isn't used to much TLC, but he'll just have to endure it. :)

lbilover · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Until you had Elladan and Elrohir list all the sleepless days and exertions Aragorn had, I never realized exactly how exhausted he must have been! Poor Strider. But he's in the best of hands, isn't he?

Author's reply

He really is. I think that being surrounded by solicitious hobbits and wise elves make for a wonderfully healing situation.

pebbles66 · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

So sweet, Frodo being so concerned about Aragorn! I know it hurts your wrists to type, so I'm doubly grateful for the update!

Author's reply

Thank you so much. I really do wish I could update more quickly. I never get enough of gentle Frodo-Aragorn scenes, do I? :)

Cairistiona · 19 June 2008 · Chapter 4: By the Fire

Ah, another installment and so much packed into this one. It was worth waiting for. The hobbits are doing what hobbits do best, caring for their friends, and what a picture this evokes--all the hustle and bustle, and poor Aragorn in the midst of it all, dead (well, nearly) to all of it. It shows how exhausted and ill he really is, for I don't see Aragorn as being a deep sleeper under normal conditions. I like the idea that he put himself into the healing sleep ... but I'm with Sam--two weeks would be a bit much! And the twins, seeing their younger brother in a new light--their thoughts on how he has passed tests that they have not, and their re-evaluation of him--it's definitely an epiphany moment for them. You can see in Elladan's thoughtful comments that they finally see Aragorn fully as Elesser, King of Gondor, and know he has been found worthy in all ways. It's a very moving moment. And too, I enjoyed seeing Frodo's thoughts on what had happened after the breaking of the Fellowship. I would imagine the full tale would be a bit shocking for him to take in, and discovering that after all the trials, Aragorn then had to muster forth all his power to save him would be very humbling. Such a bond those two have! I'm glad you're exploring it with this and look forward to more.

Author's reply

Yay, I'm glad these chapters are worth waiting for. :) I agree, Aragorn would hardly be a light sleeper after so many years of diligent Rangering! It's interesting to try to imagine the level of exhaustion someone would feel after being 'on guard' for so long. But now he's in the care of those who love him, and understand what's happening. I love exploring the special bond between Frodo and Aragorn; those rare moments in the films were very precious.

AspenJules · 4 June 2008 · Chapter 1: Without Warning

Ohhhhhhhhh, this was NICE!!! Dizzy, vomiting Aragorn... Frodo, shouting Noro Lim to Roheryn, and Roheryn looking to his Master. Beautiful countryside, good food, friendly banter.... I can't wait for the next chapter, but I'm going to make myself get some stuff done before I'm allowed... got to make it laaaaaaast!

Author's reply

"Dizzy, vomiting Aragorn..." *grins* That's just what Lilybaggins' plotbunny begged for! I'm so happy you're enjoying this. I'm sure having fun writing it.

Cairistiona · 2 June 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Ah, they're getting things ready to care for poor exhausted Aragorn! I always figured there had to be a moment when, after all he had done and been through, Aragorn finally 'hit the wall', so to speak, and just utterly collapsed, so your explanation of his illness definitely works. Looking forward to the next chapter!

Author's reply

Yay, I'm glad this scenario 'rings true'. Thank you. :)

Althea · 1 June 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Poor exhausted Strider. He worked so hard to bring the Hobbits back to health that he damaged his own; however, I know he's going to be very well tended. His brothers and friends love him dearly. The new king could not be in better hands, especially with eager and determined Hobbits doing everything in their power to help him get well. This is delightful.

Author's reply

Strider won't lack for tender loving care, and he certainly deserves it. :)

Andrea · 1 June 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Of course Frodo has to stay in that tent as long as Aragorn! I loved it that it was Sam who first came to that conclusion! What would they do without him? I also liked the idea that Gimli built a special tent, including the furniture, for the four hobbits. And I'm quite sure he would be able to make Gandalf a new hat if he were asked to do so :) Poor Aragorn, though! He put all his strength in healing others, and now he has not enough of his powers left for himself. But he has his brothers and four hobbits to care for him! He will make it :)

Author's reply

Sam has a way of seeing very clearly to the heart of any matter, doesn't he? All four hobbits are so unique. This is such a special Fellowship, and wonderful group of friends. I just love writing about them.

Linda Hoyland · 1 June 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Just as I guessed,poor Aragorn is suffering from exaustion.I'm enjoying this very much.

Author's reply

Thank you, Linda. Yes, it's all just been too much for him, and now it's time to rest and recuperate a bit.

Lily Baggins · 31 May 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Oh my... I may die at the adorableness of this, Shirebound! Absolutely, positively, if I could transport myself to the "hobbit tent" and watch the goings on from the corner, I'd be the happiest person on the planet. Is there anything better than hobbits banding together to care for someone they love? They are SO resourceful here---putting beds together, grabbing blankets---and oh, I so love Merry's quickness to back Eomer up and Pippin's steadfastness. And I can't even begin to describe how much I adore Frodo here---completely selfless, concerned Frodo. But of course I'm purely SADDENED and UPSET that it appears Frodo will have to stay in the tent with Aragorn and cannot leave, lest anyone find out what the real story is. Oh, so sad that Frodo must stay there---I'm sure all of the readers will find it a hardship to see him comforting Aragorn. :) And guh---a marvelous explanation of everything Aragorn has endured. It's so lovely to imagine him ill and spent as a result of his incessant care. I am a puddle of goo on reading about him wrapping Frodo and Sam in blankets and caring for them so tenderly. That was perfection! I adored this chapter so much!!!

Author's reply

I tried so hard to write this in a way that kept Frodo out of that tent for the duration, Lily, but he insisted on staying! I don't have a lot of control over things, so I hope you can somehow bear up under it. I suspect there might also be a teensy bit of snuggling ahead, so you might want to avert your eyes at that part. Eeeee, I'm so happy you're enjoying this! That little bit about him wrapping Frodo and Sam in soft coverings each evening was probably my favorite part, too. *glee*

Lindelea · 31 May 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Ah, I see I left a review at "Shelter". But I truly don't remember the story, so it will be a delight anew to read it. And now the tug-of-warring dog has nipped the youngest hobbit (accidentally, but such things can happen during a rousing tug-of-war) and I must go.

Author's reply

Your household is so far from boring, Lindelea. I hope everyone has a healthy and happy summer.

Lindelea · 31 May 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Aw. I love Pippin's teasing, and Merry's stating the obvious to long-suffering Gandalf. I am distracted by the delighted growls of a tug-of-warring dog in the other room, or I'd pick out more favourite bits. Your explanation of Aragorn's illness makes sense. I shall have to read "Shelter" -- I don't recall reading it before.

Author's reply

Our dog LOVED tug-of-war. :) I hope you enjoy "Shelter"! It was a short, insistent idea that wouldn't leave me alone until I wrote it down.

Tigger · 31 May 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Oh Shirebound...I've never thought of it before, but when you combine what he did in Minas Tirth calling back Faramir, Eowyn and Merry, then going to the Black Gate and then calling Frodo and Sam back, as well as making sure their healing sleep really was a healing sleep...Just one of those things would mentally and physically exhaust a person. No wonder Aragorn became so sick so fast once everything had calmed down around Cormallen into routine. There's also the grief for Halbarad and his wrenching of the Palantir to his will away from Sauron as well. That also would have sapped Aragorn's strength. It's just like whenever we have too much emotional and/or physical upheaval happen in our own lives. Once everything starts to calm down and return to normal, that's usually when everything's that's happened, tends to hit you hard. Thank Goodness the Twins are there, as well as our beloved hobbits. If anyone can get Aragorn back on the mend, it's our wonderful four Travellers. Bring on the Comfort now!! BTW...Dare I hope to see at some point Aragorn needing added warmtn around him and so ends up in the middle of a Hobbit Huddle? Huh...Huhhuhhuhhuh? :oD Can't wait to find out what happens next!! :o)

Author's reply

That's exactly it, Tigger -- he's just worn himself out. We'll get more details about that in chapter 4. I've had a "delayed stress" reaction to things myself, so I think this scenario might be quite realistic for our dear Strider. I think I might be able to get at least *one* hobbit huddling with him... :)

Pearl Took · 31 May 2008 · Chapter 3: Sanctuary

Sorry I'm late arriving. Off to a wonderful start as always, shirebound!!

Author's reply

Thank you, Pearl! :)