In Empty Lands by Larner
shirebound · 24 May 2009 · Chapter 11: A Conversation in the Dark
there are depths to Hobbits that few have the chance to behold, even among themselves. That's so beautifully stated. I'm really enjoying this tale.
Author's reply
I'm so glad you think so, Shirebound. And it proved so true! Thanks so much!
Dreamflower · 24 May 2009 · Chapter 11: A Conversation in the Dark
A marvelous conversation between Boromir and Gandalf, one that had to have taken place at some point during those months between the Council and the leave-taking. I especially like the rather hobbity way Gandalf allows himself to be sidetracked briefly by the discussion of pipe-weed! LOL! And I enjoyed the mention of his friendship with Gerontius! (I hope, perhaps, that we may get a glimpse or two of a few times he came abroad with me for a season or two as some point, maybe in "Stirring Rings"?) And I like the way that Gandalf reminds Boromir that the Enemy is not the enemy of Gondor alone, but of all Free Folk of the West! Very nice! I was so glad to see an update of this!
Author's reply
I do believe that when I get that far Gerontius's visits to Rivendell will be described, at least in brief! And there's no question Gandalf's attitudes and thinking has been affected by his exposure to Hobbits! As for the Enemy being the Enemy to all--well, I thought that Boromir needed that point rather hammered home, and Gandalf would be the one to do so, or so I'd think. Thanks so, Dreamflower.
Antane · 24 May 2009 · Chapter 11: A Conversation in the Dark
Another reason I am kindred to both Bagginses - I love to be alone too! So Boromir's education in Hobbits continues. Glad to see another chapter and another reason I love them. I took the Myers-Briggs personality test years ago and I am INFP and I think Frodo would very much be so also - introverted, intuitive, feeling, perceptive. *hugs him* Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
I can't remember what the Myers-Briggs found for me, but I think it was similar, although analytical was prominent, too. Yes, Boromir's education in Hobbits and Arnor's history continues. Thanks so, Antane!
Andrea · 22 March 2009 · Chapter 10: Of Games of Kings and Castles
But do not underestimate my Frodo. He has a core of mithril to him, you will find--light and shining, but harder and more enduring than dragons scales. Old Bilbo knows his lad very well! I found it very convincing that Bilbo's resolve to give Frodo the mithril coat was a result of this conversation. He gave Frodo the best protection possible. One might call it a compensation for the evil he gave him with the Ring. It was all he could do and I hope it made his heart a little lighter. I can always blame Gandalf, I suppose *grins* Gandalf might be blamed for many things, but he's not responsible for Bilbo *finding* the Ring, I think. And that's what started it all.
Author's reply
Oh, I love the conclusions you draw from this, Andrea. Thank you so! And indeed someone far higher than Gandalf led Bilbo to find the Ring. Thank you so!
Celeritas · 19 March 2009 · Chapter 10: Of Games of Kings and Castles
This chapter did not quite do it for me, I'm afraid. Bilbo opening up to Boromir like that and expounding on family history (though I could easily see him talking endlessly about the subject once given the opportunity) so soon in their acquaintance seemed off. That and the family history, particularly Drogo's fostering, had me thinking, Really? That's terribly convenient! at the most inopportune times. I'm only leaving you this review because I know you can handle it, my dear. As always, the chapter itself was very well written, and Bilbo's affection for Frodo shone through quite well.
Author's reply
Thanks. Was trying for something that didn't sound like a knockoff of the one Primsong did recently in which Bilbo was appearing deliberately "elderly" and "confusticating" to poor Boromir, and I obviously achieved that goal! I have indicated elsewhere the Dora, Drogo, and Dudo did spend a bit of time at Bag End, so it wasn't something I made up just for here. Am so glad that Bilbo's affection for Frodo shone through--that, I think, was what I most wished to communicate to Boromir.
Kitty · 18 March 2009 · Chapter 10: Of Games of Kings and Castles
Ah, that was a great insight into the S-B's and what Bilbo thought about them. Couldn't agree more. Anyway, that was a lovely bit of family history, giving Boromir a good idea who and what Bilbo and Frodo are, I think. And what Bilbo said last proved to be true later, didn't it? Boromir *did* consider it quite mad to take the Ring into Mordor to try and destroy it instead of taking it to Minas Tirith and use it ...
Author's reply
That Frodo would even consider abandoning the rest of the Fellowship so as to spare them what he saw as his inevitable death and so that they might have the chance to survive would have horrified him even more, I think. And you're certainly right about Boromir's own thoughts on what ought to be done with it. And now Boromir has some better idea as to what he's dealing with in the person of Frodo Baggins--IF he can be induced to keep it in mind!
shirebound · 18 March 2009 · Chapter 10: Of Games of Kings and Castles
How fascinating to get a peek into Bilbo's thoughts and evaluations of his dear Frodo. He still has so much guilt and fear, but also great faith in "the best hobbit in the Shire" -- his beloved nephew and cousin.
Author's reply
Oh, but you are so right--no one appreciates just how great a person Frodo is in his own right than Bilbo, not even Sam, I think!
Linda Hoyland · 18 March 2009 · Chapter 10: Of Games of Kings and Castles
A fascinating insight into Frodo's family tree and all the qualities he inherited.
Author's reply
Oh, and thanks so for the feedback, Linda. Yes, he's the sum of his parts and more! And we know how he showed himself in the end. Thanks so, Linda.
Agape4Gondor · 17 March 2009 · Chapter 10: Of Games of Kings and Castles
Wow - I think I should save this link for if I ever have to write about Hobbits - the lineage is great! And not the least bit boring - dear Bilbo! I wish the ending were not the same... Boromir's heart is good.....
Author's reply
Boromir's heart is good; but words can be slippery. Just as Smeagol swore to serve and not hurt the Master of the Precious, the Ring can find ways to make it appear one is serving the letter of what has been sworn but not necessarily the spirit of the oath! Thanks so, Agape.
Antane · 17 March 2009 · Chapter 10: Of Games of Kings and Castles
So Boromir learns the danger of asking whether one hobbit is related to another! :) But he seems to have followed it with any problem which is rather amazing and his words pledging to protect Frodo are bittersweet knowing what we know but he doesn't yet. Love the way you show Bilbo's grief over the burden unwittingly given, but fearfully and willingly accepted by his heir and the words that show how proud he is of that Tookish mind of his lad! :) Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
He's already had one lesson, but now he's getting to the heart of the lesson--just why Bilbo Baggins loves his younger kinsman so. And although he has pledged to protect Frodo, look at the wording he's used and think how the Ring can look to twist those words. And I think Bilbo would be rightfully proud of his lad's keen intelligence and sensitivity.
Dreamflower · 17 March 2009 · Chapter 10: Of Games of Kings and Castles
A very important conversation between Bilbo and Boromir--I think that Bilbo would have every one of "his lads'" companions under very close scrutiny in those days before the Company left. I also enjoyed Bilbo's tale of his history with Frodo and Frodo's family--I see that you too think Lobelia may have cast her net for Drogo at one point. Thank goodness Drogo had too much sense to fall into it! And of course, Boromir now has that much more to chew on. Poor man, he is soon going to be suffering from information overload. (And I love the way the ending of the chapter fits into your drabbles for today--obviously Boromir did not take all of Bilbo's advice!)
Author's reply
Oh, yes, information overload; and he's not certain just what to believe or not, of course. Bilbo is going to try to make certain that Frodo's companions are worthy, and that they are best likely to accept Frodo as he is. The idea that Lobelia might indeed have thought of Drogo first as the "perfect husband" is such a delicious one, so it was a fanon I was rather glad to try to work into my own stories. But I do think that the first time Drogo tried to do one of his carved boxes or sideboards she would have been all aghast, as in her world she cannot accept furniture that is meant to be illustrated! And that this chapter should have managed to reflect the drabbles is mere happenstance--I think! Heh!
harrowcat · 17 March 2009 · Chapter 10: Of Games of Kings and Castles
Ah Bilbo does know his Frodo-Lad. And I loved seeing how Bilbo came to decide to give him Sting and the mithral coat. Am enjoying your March series too but want to find time to sit and read/review the entire series.
Author's reply
That he does. And I wanted to find a logical way in which he might have realized these should indeed go with Frodo. Thanks so. I hope things are calming some at home.
Celeritas · 22 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
Lots of little things in this chapter that I loved: Merry's frank and rational analysis of Strider, the intricate discussion of genealogies which must have befuddled Boromir, the differences in humor (very astute for you to include that!), AND all the hobbit gossip! (There's that chair-pasting incident again!!!) This one is, quintessentially, the Boromir-gets-to-know-the-hobbits chapter/story--but you've filled it with enough of your own spirit that it's different from all the others. ~C
Author's reply
There must have been things about the Hobbits that drove those with them alternately to distraction and bellows of laughter at times; and the Hobbits must have found themselves baffled as to the sensitivities of the others within the Fellowship at times. Glad you feel I managed to make it unique in spite of the almost universal appeal of such a story.
Antane · 19 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
"Yes, they are, but not as wonderful, I think, as you four.” Well, I would have to agree with that! :) I think a lot of people wish they were as close as these hobbits. Adorable that Frodo said he slew a cloak. Man, he goes through this horrific, terrifying experience in which he nearly entered into a fate worse than death and he says of it, he slew a cloak! Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Frodo must have been so grateful so often for the love his kinsmen showed him. And I wish my family were as close. I doubt Frodo ever considered how brave it truly was to raise a weapon at all against any of the Nazgul, and particularly against the Witch-king. For him, as he failed to accomplish anything I suspect he'd ever consider it rather a failure. I find him rather a frustrating soul, at times, so certain he's not accomplished anything of note.!
Andrea · 17 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
There was the memory of intense pain in those eyes; the memory of loss. The smooth face spoke of one newly come to adulthood; the eyes spoke of one far more mature than this one seemed. There was humor there, and compassion, and a degree of impatience with those less intelligent than himself. And yet there was patience there also--it was the face of one who had come to terms with himself and knew that all his intentions would come to fruition--or not--when the time was right. Perfect! Once again I find that Frodo was named well: Wise by experience! And I also loved this line: Boromir felt rather intimidated by this one, particularly as he realized this Frodo Baggins was making his own evaluation of Boromir of Gondor. One should never make the mistake to underestimate Frodo Baggins! I liked the hobbits' talk about Shire affairs and the way you wove in many of your stories, you even included good old uncle Isengar again. It becomes clear that Boromir is missing his little brother and that he envies the hobbits for the freedom they experienced while growing up. And apparently he's jeaulous of Aragorn for his friendship with Frodo! That's interesting! Boromir calls Aragorn "the Pretender". What does he mean, I wonder? Does he not accept that Aragorn is Isildur's heir, or is he referring to the many names and disguises he has used so far? Anyway, this is going to be very, very interesting :)
Author's reply
Oh, yes, there is no question that Frodo was indeed properly named, even if as yet Boromir is not aware of the translation of that name. And I think he's becoming aware that he inded should not underestimate him--you are definitely right there! Of course my other stories and some of Tolkien's own tales are woven in; and I can't remember if the pearl necklace having been brought home by Isengar came originally from Dreamflower or from Lindelea--I think it was one of those two, but it's a fitting source for it, I'd think! There is a freedom among the Hobbits I think anyone would envy, and particularly one brought up semi-isolated as the Steward's sons undoubtedly were; and as with so many others, I do feel he saw his little brother in part in these. "The Pretender" is a title that has traditionally been given in English to those who would claim the throne before their claims have been proved or accepted; that Boromir might use that title in his mind for Aragorn seems likely. It does not necessarily mean he doubts Aragorn's claim, but neither is he likely to acknowledge him as the King Returning at this point in time. And I do suspect he is envious of Aragorn's bonds with Frodo, sensing that his will not be that close with the Ringbearer; but he's also envious of the love others seem to automatically give Frodo, and the freedom to be himself he imagines Frodo has always known, and probably the clear intelligence and sensitivity that undoubtedly he recognizes as being similar to that of his brother. Thanks so for the feedback!
Kitty · 16 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
So the curiosity drew Boromir to the Hobbits to get to know them better? Good. Hm, so the Hobbits noticed the quality of Aragorn’s clothes? Must have been exceptionally then ;) Oh, poor Boromir. I have to admit, when Bilbo mentioned the Old Took, I started to laugh, because I knew what was to come *grin* But it was great that he wanted to get to know them better, and it was certainly interesting to watch them through his eyes and to learn what he thought about them. His impressions were quite accurate, I think. And while he may not have understood all the gossip about Lalia and Lotho, I enjoyed immensely, particularly as I knew the full stories behind it. Had to grin that Boromir wanted to know more about these stories as well. He doesn’t know it yet, but I am sure he’s knowing more about the Hobbits and their extended families and all they did than he ever wanted to know before they even are through Hollin! Knowing how Boromir is missing his family, it is easy to see why he grew so close to Merry and Pippin, who were more open to him than the other two Hobbits. They must have been like younger brothers to him. Lovely chapter, Larner!
Author's reply
I do think that the Hobbits must have begun realizing Aragorn had particularly good quality stuff once they saw the kind of roads he frequented, and I suspect their own clothing was nearly in rags once they made Rivendell. As for the genealogies--yes, Bilbo REMAINS a Hobbit still, and one newly reunited with other Hobbits, so I suspect he must have been rehearsing all kinds of family tree info in his head! Boromir was not perhaps as sensitive as his father and brother, but he had to be a fair judge of men in order to do well as Captain-General of Gondor's armies. That he'd find the Hobbits' gossip fascinating just seems so likely, and he'd probably have a fair grasp of each one's personality fairly quickly. And there's no question he'll be a walking encyclopedia about Hobbits before all is said and done--you're right there! And as close as Tolkien indicates Boromir was to his brother, these must have seemed sent by the Creator Himself to help fill Boromir's loneliness. Thanks so, Kitty!
harrowcat · 16 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
When at last Frodo left the table Boromir realized he envied the Hobbit for far more than just his role as the Ringbearer. Now there is a new thought for me....that Boromir might covert the Ring for more than just the ability to use it. That he might lust after the Ring just to have the, dubious, pleasure of possessing it over and beyond any dream of actually using it puts me in mind of people who collect or steal art treasures or precious bird eggs. They squirrel them away just for the pleasure of knowing they own them. Frodo obviously doesn't feel this way about the ring but Smeagol did. E.g. he hid the Ring on his island. I think that maybe even Bilbo felt like this but he had the strength of will and Gandalf's support to overcome it. I am not sure that i have made myself clear here but thank you for challenging me to think...yet again. *goes off to ponder on the other Ringbearers..*
Author's reply
Actually, I was thinking of the fact Frodo had so many who truly cared what happened to him NOT because he was anyone particularly important in the Shire but simply because they loved him. The one person who felt that way toward Boromir appears to have been Faramir, who could not accompany him. But there's no indication that anyone offered to accompany Boromir, not even any of his men. But the idea that, like Gollum, Boromir might have wanted merely to possess the Ring is indeed a profound one. And with the Ring, it's always a question as to who is possessing whom. Thanks, Harrowcat. Love to your parents and Jet. Am SO far behind in LJ--haven't been able to do much for days!
Linda Hoyland · 16 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
I love the way you depict how Boromir is drawn to the younger Hobbits,but Frodo has already bonded with Aragorn which is a very plausible explanation for how things eventually work out.
Author's reply
I suspect this was much the way of it. Frodo is drawn to the one who also is fated to a special role in the fall of Mordor, while the two youngest seek out someone who isn't "taken," if you will. And they see him as a possible ally in learning how to defend themselves and Frodo. I think they would be very much drawn to one another, and that Boromir would find the Hobbits easier to deal with than the elf and dwarf. So glad you find it plausible. Thanks so, Linda!
Lindelea · 16 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
And I envy Boromir, sitting at table with five hobbits and listening to their talk... Boromir is a good judge of character. I had more to say, but my brain just went pfitz! Better head off to bed. Lovely chapter, and fun to read all those anecdotes once more!
Author's reply
Boromir was Denethor's son as well as Imrahil's nephew--I'd think he'd be a pretty good judge of character, even if he wasn't as sensitive as his father and brother to nuances and motivations. And I think that this easy chatter of the inconsequential must have been fascinating to him, even as he began seeing how concerned as to the more serious concerns they have regarding this proposed trip to Mordor. My brain has been going pfitz as well, so don't feel like the lone stranger! Now, to bathe four pomeranians!
Agape4Gondor · 15 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
Wow! What a great chapter... It seemed so full of fluff at the beginning - then grew in stature. Well written. I loved the laughter of Boromir - I'm still chuckling now - I'm glad it kind of helped break the ice between him and the Hobbits. And the easy banter of the friends would definitely be a delight. I have always imagined they rattled on and on, when free of cares. Very nicely written. I can't wait for more!
Author's reply
No, couldn't allow it to remain fluff, of course. As with the realization that there's more to each Hobbit than is on the surface, Boromir must understand there is more to their land and people than the simplicity and surface love of food and jollity that appears to be as deep as Hobbit society might go. These might indulge in gossip and banter, but realize that survival for Frodo must include preparation for him to protect himself as well as surrounding him with potential protectors. Thank you so, Agape. Now to get my next projects written!
Dreamflower · 15 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
Oh, this is delightful. I love the idea of Boromir, sitting there captivated by the hobbits' family gossip! And his evaluation of the others, especially Pippin was spot on! I am truly enjoying this!
Author's reply
It would be strange, particularly as it was less political and more personal in nature than the type of talk he'd probably have heard at home in Gondor, particularly as the son of the Steward. And am so glad you feel he got Pippin right. And am so glad you are enjoying this, Dreamflower.
shirebound · 15 February 2009 · Chapter 9: Getting to Know You
I'm truly enjoying seeing the hobbits through Boromir's eyes. His evaluations and observations are wonderful. And... I didn't know that Gerontius was great-great grandfather twice to Merry! How delightful.
Author's reply
Oh, yes--through Mirabella via Rory as well as his second son via Adalgrim and Esmeralda, IIRC. Merry got a double dose of the Old Took indeed. And this closeness must have been refreshing compared to what Boromir was accustomed to in Denethor's court. For all that Frodo was an only child, he yet had an extended family that was apparently particularly close.
grumpy · 2 February 2009 · Chapter 8: On Plans for Weapons
Loved the dwarves as blacksmithes to put the sword back together, sort of like in their own element. Poor Boramir, being confused by the twins. Love this story.
Author's reply
Yes, they should work well with their Elvish counterpart to see the sword redone! And may the Man destined to carry it to victory do so well and ever with the honor due it.
Raksha The Demon · 24 January 2009 · Chapter 8: On Plans for Weapons
No, no, Boromir; just put that thing out of your mind! You'll make so many adoring female fans happy if you just. stop. thinking. about. It. Sob. A lightly chilling end to a fine chapter; I loved the scene with the dwarves getting all geeky over Telchar's handiwork; and communing with the Elves in the discussions of how best to re-forge those famous shards.
Author's reply
I know, Raksha. But we know just from the Council itself that It had already caught his imagination, poor man. To him it was merely a tool, and he could not look beyond that to admit that what he was told of Its nature was true. And I think that the Dwarves would be thrilled to see a product of Telchar's forge, after all. Somehow it makes sense they would want some kind of hand in seeing it reforged, and that in this case the Elves would cooperate with them. And I, too, grieve Boromir learned too late just how much the Ring was capable of betrayal.
Andrea · 22 January 2009 · Chapter 8: On Plans for Weapons
I can very well imagine that Gimli and his father helped reforging the "sword that was broken". And I like all the details you put in, the symbols and their meaning, the runes and Aragorn's blood and hair to bind the blade to his bloodline. Frodo offered the Ring three times to others, to Gandalf, Aragorn and Galadriel. Each time he did it freely. But how do Gandalf and Elrond know that it would be exactly three times? That's interesting! Boromir is impressed by the sword but he is fascinated by the Ring! It already lures him. And he has no idea how evil It is. Poor man, I always feel so sorry for him!
Author's reply
Three is a number we tend to see as completing things as part of our Western culture; there tend to be three chances, three guesses, three offerings. Also, remember that Elrond was gifted with foreknowledge, and that prescience was known throughout Aragorn's family as well on both sides. The Ring had captured Boromir's imagination long before he saw It, I suspect. And right now the idea that It could be evil is as foreign to him as it was to Isildur when he first declared it the only fair thing made by Sauron. In the end, Boromir proved Isildur's heir as far as the belief one could possess the cursed thing or use it; Aragorn instead inherited the better part of his illustrious ancestor's sense, that of the one who realized he bought It with great pain. And such things as drops of blood and hair were often used in sympathetic magic for both good and bad purposes--we may as well see them used for good ones this time.