In Empty Lands by Larner
Dreamflower · 19 January 2012 · Chapter 23: The Battle of the First Snowfall
*grin* How delightful to see an update of this, and such a fun one. I love the idea of Boromir companionably joining in with the hobbits in a snowball battle-- Frodo knocking Gandalf's hat off was hilarious!
Author's reply
I felt all of them were ready to have some simple fun, Boromir, Hobbits, and everyone! And that hat just begged to be knocked off, I thought! Heh!
Andrea · 19 January 2012 · Chapter 23: The Battle of the First Snowfall
Wonderful! A snowball fight! And even Glorfindel participated in it. I would have liked to see Gandalf's face when Frodo hit his hat. At first he might have looked angry, but after hearing that silvery laughter I'm quite sure he smiled.
Author's reply
Even famous twice-born Elven lords deserve to have fun from time to time. And who wouldn't smile to hear Frodo laughing? Thanks so, Andrea!
Ellynn · 19 January 2012 · Chapter 23: The Battle of the First Snowfall
I love this snow-battle. :) It's great that even dignified, impressive Glorfindel is involved. *giggles*
Author's reply
Well, of course Glorfindel had to get involved, once everyone else was. Why not? And that hat was just daring anyone to throw a snowball at it, I'm certain!
Teresa · 18 January 2012 · Chapter 23: The Battle of the First Snowfall
Now that was wonderful, a snowball fight and a bit of lighthearted enjoyment as they prepared for the quest. I like seeing how Boromir is making connections with the others and gradually realising that Gondor did have firm allies however unknown. I hope to see many bonding moments as they travel.....I just wish that all of them had survived the quest! Sighs. I hate to think of what awaits them all, paticularly Gandalf, Boromir, and Frodo! Many thanks for this, it makes a lovely suprise before my birthday on the 19th! :)
Author's reply
You share a birthday with Lindelea and Mike Kellner from the HASA list and TFF, Teresa. And many happy returns of the day! Hope it was a good one. I'm certain that there were times when all found themselves exchanging stories during their long walk, or otherwise finding pleasure in being together. But I figured they needed a few joyful moments before they left the safety of Rivendell.
Agape4Gondor · 18 January 2012 · Chapter 20: Talk of Paths to be Trod
A good and serious talk by the Men. It is nice to see Boromir given leeway to 'add' to the conversation. Boromir must have felt such desolation when Theodred turned a cold shoulder on him. I love that he noted the changes in Rohan, though subtle, and realized there was a problem. And would continue to be one. 'And that night, in his dreams, he saw Théodred, now King of Rohan in his father’s place, riding out to greet him, Éomer behind him as his trusted second, and the Lady Éowyn laughing with delight to see him leading the Fellowship into the land of Rohan on its way eastward to the defeat of the Unnamed One.' I don't know why (small sob) this seems to me to be a vision of the afterlife. That Boromir and his Rohirric friends will reunite on the other side. (sob)
Author's reply
Boromir deserves to put in his own two cents now and then, at least. The apparent cold shoulder with the awareness that something within Rohan was decidedly wrong should have been obvious to him on his way north. After all, Boromir was the Steward's son, and should have had enough experience with diplomacy to begin seeing when things were being deliberately hidden from him, and perhaps he was being protected from a situation that might well get very sticky if he gives it too much obvious attention. And that final comment--I'd not thought of it that way, but appreciate the perception. Thank you so, Agape!
Agape4Gondor · 18 January 2012 · Chapter 19: Return of the Scouts
I don't know how I keep missing these postings! Drat.... I must tell you how in awe I am of your writing style. Well, yes the style, but more than that - the way you keep the POV. It boggles my mind. The perspective is always Boromir and yet, we see clearly what the others are thinking and doing in a sneaky way. I love it. I am awed.
Author's reply
I am truly honored, Agape. Thank you so! In many ways the time spent waiting for the Fellowship to leave Rivendell must have been trying for all of them, and particularly for someone as restless and determined to do the best for his people as Boromir. And to know you feel I managed to keep the POV while allowing the others to reveal themselves--thanks again!
Tari · 18 January 2012 · Chapter 23: The Battle of the First Snowfall
What a delightful interlude in the middle of a dark journey.
Author's reply
There had to be moments when all were light-hearted, or all would have destroyed them before they were properly started! Thanks so, Tari.
harrowcat · 18 January 2012 · Chapter 23: The Battle of the First Snowfall
A wonderful chance for some light hearted relief. And, of course, food is even more important than snow. Great fun Larner and beautifully visualised.
Author's reply
I'm so glad that you can imagine it from the writing, Harrowcat. The snow has been falling on and off for some days now here, and each time the pups go out they come back with balls of snow caught in their chest hair, and Panda often has a white beard of snow below her mouth as she seeks to play at Father Christmas. It will probably turn to rain tonight or tomorrow, so all are enjoying it while it lasts.
shirebound · 18 January 2012 · Chapter 23: The Battle of the First Snowfall
A snowball fight! This makes me grin so big. A wonderfully light-hearted bonding for our Fellowship.
Author's reply
I had to finally write this one, which has been in the making for quite some time, ever since those drabbles I wrote how long ago! Heh! Yes, they all needed one light-hearted morning as they prepared for their quest.
Erulisse (one L) · 18 January 2012 · Chapter 23: The Battle of the First Snowfall
Oh, even if I am now running late for work, it was SO worth it to read this delightful little story of the first snowfall. I wish I could have seen the look on Glorfindel's face :-) Thanks for the morning smile. - Erulisse (one L)
Author's reply
It was time for a smile on behalf of all of them. I've written the start of this battle into a series of drabbles I wrote a few years ago, followed by a second depicting Frodo's awakening the following morning and then the single story "The First Snowfall of the Season" in which there is a surprise awaiting those who spent Yule in the King's House on Lake Evendim, in which the explanation is given for the three figures Frodo sculpted. And I can so imagine the surprise by Glorfindel that he's been taken by surprise by a Hobbit! Heh! Glad to start your morning well, Erulisse.
Linda Hoyland · 23 September 2011 · Chapter 22: All the King's Men
This is a lovely story. Thank you so much! Alas,that Denethor was never a King's man , but at least Faramir chose to be. The book is a great idea.
Author's reply
I do so suspect that Boromir would easily figure out that Faramir would be mostly thrilled to see Aragorn acclaimed King and would swiftly become the King's Man. And, given time (and no interference from the Ring), I suspect he, too, would in the end have accepted Aragorn as his liege, although I also suspect that there would have been a level of competition between them as well. And I do believe that as it became apparent the time for the Return of the King to happen those of the lineage of Isildur would have done their best to see that the one who should be that King would be reminded of the importance of those who are his Men. Again, I so hope your birthday was warm and wonderful!
Antane · 21 September 2011 · Chapter 22: All the King's Men
I was just thinking the other day that I hadn't seen a new chapter of this in a while and then I was surprised to see this, as if in answer to my wish. :) Especially nice to see since I had Frodo and Boromir in my tale also. Alas that Boromir knows his father's reaction all too well. Love the comparison between Faramir and Frodo, those two would indeed be kindred spirits, that Boromir was disappointed that Frodo didn't respond as Faramir does and that Faramir was always open to speaking to his brother even when buried in a book, my favorite place to be too whether I am reading or writing one! Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Considering how close the two brothers appeared to be, I was certain that when his thoughts were confused Boromir would tend to seek his brother out as his personal sounding board whenever Faramir was within finding distance. And this appeared to be the perfect story in which to respond to the prompt! Thank you so, Antane!
Agape4Gondor · 21 September 2011 · Chapter 17: An Encounter with the Ringbearer
A telling chapter indeed and full of foreboding! Yikes! You can really tell that Arwen is Galadriel's granddaughter! Nicely written. I do love the parts with Boroomir laughing. If only he could have laughed on Amon Hen....
Author's reply
Oh, yes, there's no question of Arwen's heritage both from her peredhel father and her formidably grandmother as well. She must have had her own version of foresight just dripping from her at times. And both Frodo and Boromir needed a good laugh from time to time, I think. I, too, grieve that they did not do so together on Amon Hen, but they at least had the chance to do so here.
Agape4Gondor · 21 September 2011 · Chapter 16: Trust to their Friendship
Exquisite. The interplay between the four is awesome. And the lightbulb that goes off in Elrond's head is perfect! Well done, my dear!
Author's reply
I held onto this one quite a while after I first wrote it before I got to the place in this series where this fitted. And I do think that it was probably such an interaction that led Elrond to change his mind about sending Merry and Pippin home to the Shire. Thanks so very much!
Teresa · 20 September 2011 · Chapter 22: All the King's Men
I enjoyed reading this bonding moment between Frodo and Boromir! I think that similar moments like this on the journey helped him to fight the temptation of the Ring until Amon Hen; and also aided him to break free from its grasp after the confrontation with Frodo. I've always regretted that Boromir never had the chance to walk into the library and see his brother and Frodo together! It would also have been lovely if Boromir could have been there when Aragorn was adding the final chapters to All the King's Men. I can see it now, Aragorn speaking to the rest of the Fellowship and getting their input and adding the impressions of Eomer,Imrahil,Theoden and Denethor. Sigh.... I wish it had worked out like that! Many thanks for another great chapter! :)
Author's reply
There must have been many moments when Boromir found himself thinking of his brother when dealing with the Hobbits, and that Frodo in particular would tend to bring Faramir to mind. And I, too, believe that it would help Boromir once he realized indeed he'd been taken by the Ring's influence. Too bad he couldn't be there when that last chapter was added, for I do believe he had a place within Aragorn's chapter alongside Halbarad, Halladan, and Hardorn.
Agape4Gondor · 20 September 2011 · Chapter 15: On Swords and Swordsmanship
What a great chapter and what a great lexson for Boromir.
Author's reply
A great lesson for all of them, I think. After writing my other story on the forging of the Barrow-blades, I found I had to add this one here. Thanks so, Agape!
Agape4Gondor · 20 September 2011 · Chapter 14: The Prince of Mirkwood
Loved the little dance thought by Boromir. An apt description of how elves move. On a sadder side -- the Ring begins its attack. Well written.
Author's reply
I'm certain that the Fair Folk were most graceful in all they did, even in the mere lifging of one's shoulder. And, yes, already the Ring is about Its work--or perhaps Boromir's own imagination is merely working overtime. Thanks so, Agape!
Ellynn · 20 September 2011 · Chapter 22: All the King's Men
Aww, wonderful. I enjoyed a little bit of Middle-earth history lesson, as well as the friendship we see between Frodo and Boromir. Well done!
Author's reply
I'm so pleased that you felt I was adding to the history of Middle-earth here. And I do think there would have developed a mutual respect between the Man and Frodo. Thanks so, Ellyn!
Thundera Tiger · 23 March 2011 · Chapter 19: Return of the Scouts
I can't believe I've never reviewed this! Gyah! My sincerest apologies. I am a horrible, horrible person, and I can only beg your forgiveness. This is a wonderful story! The thing that stands out to me in this section of the books is the choosing of the Fellowship, but you've brought to life the choosing of the weapons, the choosing of the pack animals, the choosing of the healer, and a host of other things just as significant and important but so often forgotten. I particularly enjoyed the way you brought Gloin and Gimli in on the reforging of Narsil. That was a masterstroke! Boromir's musings over food and Faramir's ability to deal with this were the perfect touch, and I can imagine his thoughts frequently turning to home as he chafes to get underway. And I LOVED the setup you give for the passage of the Redhorn Gate and their eventual trip under the mountains through Moria. The not-quite-a-standoff between Aragorn and Gandalf already hints that there may be disagreement. Wonderfully done!
Author's reply
And I can't believe that I managed to miss this! I'm so glad that you feel I have managed to close a LOT of gaps. And I'm certain that the Dwarves would want to be involved in the reforging of this blade that was originally crafted by the most famous of their swordsmith ancestors. Thank you so very much, and please forgive me for taking so long to respond to this wonderful review!
Tari · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 21: Reforged
This is a most interesting interpretation of the reforging of the shards of Narsil, and a believable one at that.
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so glad you find it believable! I was rather afraid it might be a bit over the top! But I can't imagine that they would not ask a Dwarf to aid in the reforging of the blade.
Raksha The Demon · 23 January 2011 · Chapter 21: Reforged
A powerful chapter, with wonderful elements of magic and history. The involvement of the different races and cultures in the final re-forging is a great touch, especially Gandalf as the kindler of the fires. Great to see Gimli in his element, too!
Author's reply
Thanks so, Raksha. Yes, I believe all the Children of Iluvatar would have been represented here as much as possible; and who better to help in the smithing than Gimli, or to kindle the fire itself than Gandalf? Again, thank you so!
Andrea · 22 January 2011 · Chapter 21: Reforged
“That was quite a bit of work, and no mistake,” he heard the gardener saying That it was indeed! But it was also a magical moment when the representatives of the free peoples of Middle Earth added their voices to the song and helped to see the sword reforged. Thank you for creating such a beautiful and powerful image.
Author's reply
I cannot help but believe, with representatives of all the Free Peoples there in Rivendell at the time, that Elrond would wish to see each and all involved in the reforging of Narsil into Anduril. Thank you so very much, Andrea.
Teresa · 20 January 2011 · Chapter 21: Reforged
I loved how you showed the reforging of Narsil and how everyone took part in it! I think that the singing gave Boromir a direct sense of what they all wanted to protect and restore; and heartened them against Sauron, Saruman and the Ring. It added to the conection between them all and the rest of the world. That's something Sauron and company would never want or even understand; and Saruman deliberately broke his link to others. Thanks for another excellent chapter! :)
Author's reply
And I thank you so, Teresa. No, they're not likely to understand!
Ellynn · 20 January 2011 · Chapter 21: Reforged
Aww, another wonderful gapfiller. This is so beautiful. I've written a story of reforging Narsil too, but now that I read yours, I have a feeling that mine is so small and weak compared to this. Thanks for another great story! :)
Author's reply
I can't say precisely why this alarms me, but it does. I hate for anyone to try to compare themselves to others, after all! But I'm so glad that this appears to have moved you so. Thanks so much, Ellynn!
shirebound · 19 January 2011 · Chapter 21: Reforged
I love the idea of so many willing hands helping with the reforging of the sword, Gandalf lighting the fire himself, and the songs and blessings. And the breath of the Ring-bearer being part of Anduril for all time was a wonderful addition.
Author's reply
Aragorn, has, in my-verse, done his best to forge alliances not only between the Dunedain of Eriador and various peoples throughout northwestern Middle Earth, but also among the various lands with whom he was negotiating, getting all to cooperate as much as possible in their joint interest in stopping the power of Mordor from becoming overwhelming. In Aragorn, Gandalf found his perfect agent. That all who had become Aragorn's allies--and thusly, joint allies--would cooperate in helping to see this famous, iconic blade reforged seems not only likely but necessary, a foreshadowing of the desired victory toward which all were now working. In the liturgical churches, we remember that the original meaning of spirit was "breath"--it was the Breath of the Creator that gave life to the clay figure that became Adam. So it is that the officiant breathes upon the Communion bread and wine in the blessing of them. That the breath of the Ringbearer might well be seen as necessary to helping to rekindle the sword of the Kings just seems so very likely! Thank you so for the feedback, Shirebound!