The Farmer's Son by Lindelea
Dreamflower · 12 March 2014 · Chapter 25: As if Nothing Had Happened
So Ferdi seems to have lost a few days! Actually that's probably not a bad coping mechanism--save for the missing ponies, which will eventually make the whole house of cards come tumbling down.
Author's reply
Even the missing ponies might not be quite enough, but there's more on the horizon, definitely. Thanks!
Garnet Took · 12 March 2014 · Chapter 25: As if Nothing Had Happened
Glad to see an update to this one. I'm worried what finally finding out about the ponies is going to do to Ferdi. He doesn't need another setback. I'm also anxious to find out what happens when Paladin finds out about Pip and the others being gone. It's going to be interesting to see how things play out for those left behind.
Author's reply
I'm glad to say that I have written ahead in nine of the WIPs here on SoA and am trying to post a new chapter of one of them daily, rotating through the lot. One of them is two chapters away from completion, which will whittle down the number to eight. Thus, if all goes well (and that includes no more computer tantrums, which reminds me, I need to do some backups), you should see another chapter of this every week. Think good thoughts. This may be the first new year's resolution I ever managed to keep... Hope so, anyhow! Would be nice to tie up so many loose ends. Things are going to start moving more quickly, I think, now that a lot of the background has been set in place. Hope so, anyhow. Thanks!
Everlight · 8 March 2014 · Chapter 24: Pieces of a Puzzle
Hmmm...he's getting closer. It seems others around him are seeing the picture a bit more clearly than he is. I'm not sure which is or will be worse for him, sensing the danger without a clear picture or a clear picture with his son in the middle of it all. Glad I'm not in his position.
Author's reply
I think it's easier for him to discount danger to himself -- thus others see the danger to him more clearly than he does himself. He's more likely to respond to what he perceives as danger to the land and people he's appointed to guard, or watch over. Very perceptive. Thanks!
Larner · 4 March 2014 · Chapter 24: Pieces of a Puzzle
Good and evil are too often at odds, and so he, the Thain, is warned. And too bad Frodo won't be at Crickhollow either to accept his letter or to reply! At least the others are aware that he needs someone close at hand both to relay orders and to see to his protection. They sense that the authority of the Thain will be needed to help protect all who can be protected.
Author's reply
Yes, the hobbits surrounding him seem to have been alerted to the danger that he only dreamed about, and are determined to protect him. It seems as if Someone might be watching over him... Thanks.
Garnet Took · 3 March 2014 · Chapter 24: Pieces of a Puzzle
I'm feeling so nervous for poor Paladin and his trying to figure out the real picture here, not to mention what's going to happen when he here's that Pippin has disappeared and is presumed to be dead. Then there's the matter of what happens when he hear about the black riders. Of course, I'm thinking that's what's gotten to Ferdi and...oh crud, I can't think of the other one's name. Anyway, really looking forward to the next chapter.
Author's reply
So nice to hear from you! I know what you mean about him hearing about Pippin -- it's the kind of thing that takes the heart right out of a person. But JRRT himself said something about "deep in the heart of a hobbit is a core of courage" or something to that effect. I can't remember where that quote might be...
Dreamflower · 3 March 2014 · Chapter 24: Pieces of a Puzzle
Still a few pieces shy of the full picture. But it's not going to be a very pretty picture when he finally gets it.
Author's reply
No, you're right. *sigh* Sheesh, I want to skip over the next few days and be at the 30th, just so the final pieces can fall into place, at least, enough of the puzzle that Paladin can see his way more clearly and begin to move forward in a definitive way. Poor hobbit. He's only been Thain for about three years, as I figured out last week (and thank you very much for your help! Math is so not my strong point...), and he's about to find out that Thain is so much more than simply a ceremonial title or nod to the distant (to a hobbit) past...
Everlight18 · 22 February 2014 · Chapter 23: At the End of the Day
Oh, poor Ferdi. Paladin seems closer to connecting all the pieces but is still missing important information. I wonder how much longer until it all falls into place? Still cannot find my LOTR books, probably under someone's bed, will have to check. What is happening with the travelers and Freddy? I can't seem to remember off the top of my head.
Author's reply
O my, you sound just like me! We have three copies of LOTR (one box set and two all-in-one) and couldn't find any for the longest time! (And yes, they're usually under someone's bed or other.) I have one of the all-in-ones now in my possession, in the bag I take everywhere. It adds carrying weight but at least I can put my hand on it when I want it. Pardon me for copying and pasting, but this will answer part of your question: Pippin, Frodo, Sam and Merry left Crickhollow at dawn on the 26th (this day) and entered the Old Forest. At some point on this day, they encountered Old Man Willow and were rescued by Tom Bombadil. Freddie is left behind at Crickhollow to maintain the pretense that Frodo is living there. Crickhollow will be attacked by Black Riders at dawn on the 30th (just a few days away). Thus, probably later on the 30th (give a Quick Post rider/runner time to get from Buckland to Tookborough), the last pieces of the puzzle will start falling into place. Thanks!
Larner · 19 February 2014 · Chapter 23: At the End of the Day
It seems he knows the truth down deep, and is suffering in anticipation of it. Poor Ferdi, but at least he's able now to be up and doing at least part of the time. Once the Sun sets, however, the Black Breath tries to steal back.
Author's reply
You're right, darkness is a force in itself after such an encounter, and the only way to manage it is to master it. But first the healing must have time to do its work...
Dreamflower · 19 February 2014 · Chapter 23: At the End of the Day
Oh dear! The darkness brings the Shadow back? Not a good sign, though the fact that laughter eases it somewhat is! Poor Paladin! I hope he is able to put his thinking to some good use, but he still lacks vital information!
Author's reply
Well, darkness is a reminder of Shadow, but thankfully, it can be countered with light, love, and joy. You're right, some final pieces of the puzzle are still lacking, but it won't be too many days before they fall into place and Paladin sees his way clearly.
Larner · 12 February 2014 · Chapter 22: What the Searchers Found
A terrible loss, but better than the possible loss of their riders, I suppose. And we know that Pippin and Merry won't be returning anywhere near soon! Weather here warming but windy, and little dogs are on alert status--constantly! Heh!
Author's reply
Wind unsettles our animals as well, and they've had a lot to contend with the past few days. Great news! Middlest and her partner took top honours at last weekend's tournament. It's never happened before, and it may never happen again (in her own words), but it certainly was a thrill when it did happen... We are so proud of all their hard work. *sigh* Poor Paladin and his family!
Tari · 11 February 2014 · Chapter 22: What the Searchers Found
Glad to see you back. I've really missed reading this story. What a gruesome discovery. The poor ponies. I'm sure they just didn't fall off, they were helped.
Author's reply
In a manner of speaking, you're right. I remember reading JRRT saying that the Black Rider's chief weapon was fear, and fear certainly drove the ponies over the edge. I imagine that the riders would have gone right over the cliff with them, if the Black Rider had not felt the need to question them about Frodo's whereabouts. Horrid thought. Thanks!
Dreamflower · 9 February 2014 · Chapter 22: What the Searchers Found
Oh dear, Paladin's been set a puzzle and no mistake. Of course they don't have all the pieces nor understand just what has invaded the Shire. And of course they have no way to realize that protectors are involved as well. I'm a little lost in the timeline: where are Pippin, Frodo and Sam now? Have they reached Woodhall yet, or are they further than that?
Author's reply
Pippin, Frodo, Sam and Merry left Crickhollow at dawn on the 26th (this day) and entered the Old Forest. At some point on this day, they encountered Old Man Willow and were rescued by Tom Bombadil. Freddie is left behind at Crickhollow to maintain the pretense that Frodo is living there. Crickhollow will be attacked by Black Riders on the 30th (just a few days away). Having to work from online timelines as I can't seem to find ANY of our copies of LOTR at the moment. Thanks!
Garnet Took · 9 February 2014 · Chapter 22: What the Searchers Found
Glad to see you're still working on this one. I'm really interested to see how events unfold. I'm really wondering what the reactions will be when they realize Pippin is gone and things are only going to get worse.
Author's reply
I know! Something prompted the Tooks to close Tookland off and keep Men out, we know from the story. I just have to figure out how the events might have transpired... Thanks for the good word. Are you working on new stories, too? Looking forward to seeing them.
Everlight18 · 3 February 2014 · Chapter 21: Back from the Brink
Wow! I like this story. It is good to see this side of Paladin, which I like a lot better. I am looking forward to seeing what Pippin's family's reaction is when they find out he is missing. Will they tie it back to those feelings that they had earlier? Hope you update soon.
Author's reply
Working on it! Thanks for stopping by and leaving an encouraging word.
Tari · 21 August 2013 · Chapter 21: Back from the Brink
I finally got caught up and can't wait to find out what happens next. Hope you let is know by email when the next chapter is posted.
Author's reply
I think you can arrange for the site to automatically send you an email when the next chapter posts. If we're still snowed in tomorrow, you just might see more of the story. Author Reply: (and much-belated thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment!)
Tari · 11 June 2013 · Chapter 9: Encounter with Shadow
Oh, No!!! The Nazgul is in the Shire. How frigthening for the poor Hobbits. I started reading this when a notification of an update was posted. I have a lot of catching up to do.
Larner · 6 June 2013 · Chapter 21: Back from the Brink
A terrible thing if that is what happened to the poor ponies. At least Tolly and Ferdi didn't go with them. And it is good to see them recovering with memories only for the healing offered them by Elrond's sons, and thoughts to the coming future!
Author's reply
Yes, it is a terrible thing to contemplate! Poor ponies! They'd never go near a cliff's edge if they were in their right minds... Thanks! Looking forward to seeing you today.
Dreamflower · 5 June 2013 · Chapter 21: Back from the Brink
Oh, I'm glad that Ferdi and Tolly are feeling better! But I'm very puzzled; just as puzzled as Paladin...
Author's reply
It's puzzling, indeed... Thanks!
Larner · 27 May 2013 · Chapter 20: Another Day, Another Dawning
The closing line is JUST perfect--yes, three if he stops at the pub! He does appear to like the beer there, after all! And it sounds as if they need that extra help right now.
Author's reply
LOL! Three for certain... It's not only short cuts that make for long delays. Thanks!
Tari · 21 May 2013 · Chapter 5: Of Endings and Beginnings
"The Sun kicked off her coverlet and peeped smiling over the Green Hills, joyously welcoming the new day. What a delightful way to describe a sun rise. I shall have to remember it
Author's reply
Thank you! I admit to being heavily influenced by Thornton Burgess... (His Book of Birds is one of our favourite read-alouds.)
Larner · 12 April 2013 · Chapter 19: Fading Echoes
Ah, a good omen, this being posted today. My birthday mathom will be revealed with the LOTR Community Challenge, I hope not too late after tomorrow. I like both Eglantine and Paladin sensing that something has been wrong but is now ended, if not put fully right. Love to all!
Author's reply
I love your birthday mathom! (as I already told you) Yes, I think the Black Riders are out of Tookland, maybe even out of the Shire proper, though they're likely combing Buckland to find exactly where the Baggins went to ground. After all, they don't attack Crickhollow until the 30th, but I think Frodo & Co. go into the Old Forest the early morning of the 26th. (Am typing this off the top of my head, without the timeline in front of me at the moment.) If a Black Rider was sniffing about on the Ferry landing as they crossed, then I imagine they'd follow the Ring to Buckland fairly quickly. If I'm thinking wrong, please let me know!
Dreamflower · 12 April 2013 · Chapter 19: Fading Echoes
Oh dear! And it's still days before they'll get word, thanks to Fatty's little ruse. After this, perhaps they will trust those "feelings" more...
Author's reply
Indeed! They're missing some important information, unfortunately, but things will become clearer with the passage of time. Thanks!
Larner · 23 March 2013 · Chapter 18: A Matter of Missing Ponies
Yes, those two words would gnaw at a person! Good idea to take a couple of more seasoned individuals, especially if those strange, black-clad Big Persons are still hanging about the region.
Author's reply
A couple more seasoned individuals, yes, and perhaps even a dog or two... (although as I recall, Farmer Maggot's dogs weren't too thrilled about confronting a certain black-clad Big Person, no, not at all). Thanks!
Larner · 15 March 2013 · Chapter 17: Getting Back to Normal
Alas, they cannot know just what is going on with Pippin and his companions, or how long it will be before any of them are seen again. Frodo's a bit old to have that young a lass he's been keeping an eye on, I fear. Oh, well--they're each doing the best he or she can with what they've got, at least. And they did at least get the laundry done!
Author's reply
I'm afraid Eglantine is misinterpreting a bit of kindness she saw at a Yuletide gathering at Brandy Hall, several years earlier... But she truly can't imagine a proper reason for moving to Buckland, except (as in the case of Paladin's sister) perhaps marriage. It's a good thing to be caught up on the laundry, indeed! Thanks!
Dreamflower · 15 March 2013 · Chapter 17: Getting Back to Normal
Ah, sweetie! What a lovely "homefront" chapter: in spite of all that has happened, and all that is yet to happen, the day to day routine of living must go on, the washing and the cleaning and the cooking. I love the irony of Eglantine's speculations on the future. Poor thing, she has no idea of what's fixing to happen! (((hugs)))So happy to see this new chapter!
Author's reply
Thank you! (((hugs back))) I have so missed being away. I am so far behind on email, I've almost given up on getting caught up. Eglantine certainly is right -- getting behind in the necessities makes for so much extra work. I am glad that the chapter works. I was afraid it might be slow or tiresome, and yet some of the threads are essential in future chapters and I needed a breather, myself. Poor Eglantine. It makes sense that Frodo went to Buckland to seek a bride, at least as much sense as anything else to Eglantine's mind. So glad you're still with me.