The Ranger and the Eagles by Cairistiona
Elflingimp · 27 January 2011 · Chapter 9: Two Days Spent with Aragorn and He's Become Just as Obstinate
Aw! You sure catch the heart of Aragorn and mine with this chapter, my eyes are moist! and I would really like some of those honey cakes! LOL! Hugs The Imp
Author's reply
Aw, thank you, Imp! I'm so glad this stirred your emotions to that extent! I have to say I wouldn't mind having a plate of those honeycakes right now, too. *g*
Mirach · 27 January 2011 · Chapter 9: Two Days Spent with Aragorn and He's Become Just as Obstinate
Very nice chapter! I'm glad Aragorn was able to help Durvain. The eagle really sounded like him, it's contagious! I imagine sleeping leaning on the soft feathers of a great eagle - it must be wonderful! I hope Aragorn gets a flight when they are both allright =) I liked the part with Beorn also, it shows more about Aragorn and who he really is (and that's what my next story will be about too, partially).
Author's reply
Thank you, Mirach... glad you enjoyed this chapter. I think it must have been soooo warm and comfortable, leaning against an Eagle like that. And I'm glad you enjoyed Beorn's part in this--and how he pulled out of Aragorn information that isn't widely known. Beorn's sneaky that way, isn't he! But he's an ally, and a leader of his people, so he can be privy to things, I think, that perhaps others wouldn't be. Beorn's one of those characters that canon doesn't draw in detail, so he's open a bit to interpretation. And with your cryptic comment, your new story is already intriguing me! :) Thanks again for the review!
Larner · 27 January 2011 · Chapter 9: Two Days Spent with Aragorn and He's Become Just as Obstinate
Ah, but I do love Durvain, and wish I could entertain him myself! And Aragorn has won another ally!
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner! Wouldn't it be grand to be able to have such a bird as a friend? And yes, Beorn's quite taken with Aragorn--thank goodness, because Aragorn will need the Beornings' help by the end of his long hunt. :) Thanks for the review!
TolkienFan · 27 January 2011 · Chapter 9: Two Days Spent with Aragorn and He's Become Just as Obstinate
So, this is an entertaining enough read, I suppose, but I have an issue with the whole convo between Beorn and Aragorn. You seem to have fallen prey to the popular fanon that almost everyone in Middle Earth knew that the wizards were Maiar. They didn't. If you'd read the essay on the Istari in 'Unfinished Tales,' you'd know that the Men of Middle Earth thought that the Istari were elves, because of their inordinately long lifespans. Gandalf's name is supposed to have meant 'elf of the wand' precisely because the men of the North believed him to be an elf and liked his occasional displays of wonder. There is absolutely zero evidence anywhere in canon to support the idea that Aragorn knew Gandalf was one of the Maiar, there's zero evidence in canon that he revealed that bit of information to anyone other than Cirdan, and I find it highly implausible that he'd have shared that information with Beorn.
Author's reply
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I don't agree with your strict interpretation of canon, and my beta readers, whose knowledge of canon I trust implicitly, apparently found no trouble with my interpretation and representations. But each of us have our own tolerance level when it comes to such extrapolation, so I merely wish you the best and hope you can find an author whose writings more closely suit your needs.
Ellynn · 27 January 2011 · Chapter 9: Two Days Spent with Aragorn and He's Become Just as Obstinate
Awww, wonderful ending. :) Poor Durvain. :( I hope he will be well soon.
Author's reply
Thank you, Ellynn! I have a feeling Durvain will recover more quickly than Aragorn!
Tigger · 26 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
I've just spent most of the evening reading this fantastic tale and I can't wait for the next installment. I just hope that Durvain is alright, as you've left us quite a worrisome cliffhanger there. I miss LJ and chatting w/you and everyone else. There's been no word on the lump and it's been a month now since the tests, so...Hopefully in this case, no news is good news. Can't wait to read the next chapter!! :o)
Author's reply
Hi, Tigger!! I'm so glad to hear from you... I've been wondering how things were going. Yes, let's keep fingers crossed that no news is good news, but it would be nice if they'd call you or send a letter to let you know so you can stop worrying. We've missed you over at LJ! I'm glad you're able to read the story, even if you're still limited as to online access... I'll be posting another chapter this morning! Thank you so much for the review!
LisaG · 26 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
LOL! Love Aragorn's reactions to Beorn and his household...must be quite a shock to see childhood stories come to life! I wonder what the trouble is with the eagles...was Durvain hurt worse than they thought?
Author's reply
Thanks, LisaG! Can you imagine being feverish and injured and seeing all those animals doing all those crazy things?? Little wonder he doubted his sanity! Now on to see about those Eagles!
Silivren Tinu · 25 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
LOL, I very much hope Gandalf won't roast him after he had to go to so much trouble to keep him alive! I can't imagine he'll be happy once he realizes what his staff is currently being used for, though. *g* I really hope Menelris is alright and that nothing has happened to Durvain, though I'm quite sure that's too much to hope for. A distressed Menelris can't mean anything good. Well, at least it seems Aragorn is about to meet the eagles again, even if it may not be in the way he had wished for. I've always loved Beorn and I think you've really done him and his hall justice! You've also given me a great craving for honeycakes. *looks wistful* I hope Aragorn will get to see Beorn changing into a bear! It's really good to see Aragorn feeling better, though that won't last long if he goes on like that. *eyes him worriedly* I can't wait to hear what's happened to my favourite eagles! :)
Author's reply
Thanks, Almut! Yes, hopefully Aragorn's fears of being next on the rotisserie are unfounded! I'm glad you liked my take on Beorn... he's my favorite character in "The Hobbit" and I wanted to do him justice. And yes, now I want a honeycake, too!! I may have to find a recipe.... but first we have to see too the poor Eagles. Thanks for the review!
LisaG · 25 January 2011 · Chapter 7: The Dwarf Didn't Like It Either
Oh dear! What a scary and perilous flight! I don't doubt this experience will NOT enamour Aragorn to future air borne activities. ;) The poor man was also much too hard on himself for his fear of flying...it's one thing to do it in a plane...I've even been on a hot air balloon, but I can't imagine the paralyzing fright of doing it in the grips of a bird's foot, hitting turbulence, an attacking eagle and of all things, in a FACE DOWN position! :o
Author's reply
Thanks, LisaG! I think you're right in that Aragorn was a little too hard on himself, all things considered! He did better than most men would have managed, I think! But you know Aragorn, he tends to be his own worst critic. *g* Glad you enjoyed the chapter!
Lily Baggins · 25 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
I have a suspicion that Gandalf will indeed roast him---but will it be for treating his staff so disrespectfully, or for getting up out of bed while still recovering? Oh, I can't wait to read and find out! How much did I love this chapter? Well, I adore Beorn---he's just a perfect mixture of gruffness and compassion. And I so enjoyed his and Aragorn's little talk---especially since Aragorn was so star-struck. And melancholy at times, which is really so realistic after you've been very ill. So nicely done. I'm looking forward to more of Beorn, and I really enjoy the way he treats Aragorn. Now, the sickness---how I LOVED the description of Aragorn's sickness and Beorn telling him (and unintentionally embarrassing him) about the details. Your way of describing Aragorn's physical discomforts is always so perfect---I eat it up like candy. Lovely, lovely, the thought of Aragorn delirious and vomiting and shivering and well, all of that! (I would give my eyeteeth and more than a few body parts to ever read the details of those two days from Aragorn's fevered, delirious POV, with Gandalf caring for him and wiping his face and brow and soothing him as he vomits and uttering kind words and changing his blankets and all... you have such a way with those scenes!) Ah, I wish this story could go on forever, I do. I'm very worried about the eagles... something tells me that Durvain is in big trouble. Oh, goodness, I hope it all turns out all right in the end... I feel like the eagles are great friends of mine now. And how I laughed at Durvain's speech about the vultures! That is educational. I'm almost sorry---okay, very sorry---that Aragorn seems to be recovering. I've so enjoyed his pitiful state, so enjoyed it more than words can say. But I suppose he's going to have to buck up and get his health back eventually or he can't ever realize his destiny, darn it. I sure wish I had some honeycakes and cream right now! But I suppose the closest thing I can come to are Twinkies. A pretty sorry excuse, I know!
Author's reply
Thank you, Lily! I wondered if you'd be sorry to see Aragorn getting better. *g* But he can't stay ill forever; he does have that whole destiny thing to attend to, after all. But I'm flattered by how well you enjoy my take on things when he's not exactly up to snuff. :) And I had a feeling you'd tell me you wanted to see those two days in intimate detail! LOL Maybe I'll write it up special just for you; unfortunately, it would have dragged down the pace of things too much to include, since it would have been an entire chapter all by itself... it was time to let Aragorn get back on his feet (if barely!). He has Eagles to see to! I'm so glad you count the Eagles as friends now! I really did hope to endear these two to everyone's hearts, so that makes me feel warm and fuzzy all over. *g* And great, now I want a Twinkie.... Thanks for the review!
Estelcontar · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
I'm glad they went to Beorn with all due speed or Aragorn's stomach might have decided to part company with him for good. So, Aragorn's stomach did not let him enjoy his flight. What a pity! A grat chapter this on: Beorn and Aragorn's discussion of death sounded very credible and convincing. Aragorn's waking up to see that dog's soulful look; the delighted grin, and the dog trotting of on all fours to call Beorn was a lovely scene indeed, as was Aragorn thinking the helpful animals were visions caused by his delirium. I liked very much how you portrayed Beorn. He sounded very much like what a wise older Beorn should sound like. And the idea of Aragorn using Gandalf's staff as a cane is goooooooood. Let's hope Gandalf does not roast him. *g*
Author's reply
Thank you, Estelcontar! That would have been terrible, had Aragorn's stomach parted ways with him for good! LOL This chapter was both a joy and a huge challenge, what with getting that conversation just right according to canon, so I'm glad you enjoyed it and found it convincing. Beorn is so fascinating to me; it was fun to extrapolate how he might have mellowed with age and what sort of lasting effects Bilbo and Co, and the Battle of Five Armies and all that might have had on him. And yes, now to see what's up with the Eagles and how Gandalf will react when Aragorn tells him the dog drooled all over his staff! Thanks for the review!
Mirach · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
This was a lovely chapter! It's wonderful to see poor sick Aragron getting better, and even meeting Beorn. That was a fascinating dialogue he had with the old skinchanger, from the initial embarassment of meeting a legend from his childhood tales to the deeper topics, and I'm glad he found compassion in Beorn. We know that he will pass every test laid beore him in his life, including the last one, but he does not know yet, and the uncertainty and the seemingly unreachable goal before him must be a heavy burden. And, just for your information, I'm very worried for Durvain now!
Author's reply
Thank you, Mirach! I'm glad you liked this chapter--there was a lot going on in it, not least of which was Beorn finally getting a well-deserved moment in the fanfiction spotlight. *g* I'm glad you liked my take on him. As for Aragorn, I think you've hit on something interesting--I think sometimes because we know he'll meet every test and pass with flying colors, that he never had a moment's doubt. But you're right--he didn't know, at this time especially, how he would hold up to the challenges ahead, and I would imagine that weighed on him quite a lot from time to time. And yes, what of Durvain! We'll find out, next chapter. :) Thanks for the review!
Darkover · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
Dear Cairistiona: This is the most delightful chapter so far! Your descriptive style was well done, as always, and I loved the conversations between Aragorn and Beorn. You also gave the reader your interepretation of why Beorn seemed so suspicious and unwelcoming in the past: well done. It was also interesting to hear some of Aragorn's thoughts and feelings on his situation. The man has had a hard time of it lately, he has also been wounded and sick as a dog, and I more than sympathize with his worries that he will never be able to accomplish his life's goals. It must be frustrating in the extreme, as from his POV at this time, he is no nearer to his goals of having a home of his own (as you wisely and sensitively made the point,) being King of Gondor, marrying Arwen, and having his own family, than he was when he first went out into the wild as a very young man. BTW, IMHO you did a lovely job of capturing Beorn's gruff character, as well as his exotic household. And let us not forget Durvain! I really like that Eagle. I was unaware that vultures urinate down their legs. This story has been educational in some weird ways. This is my favorite chapter so far--have I said that before? If so, you keep outdoing yourself. I thoroughly enjoy this story, and I eagerly await the next chapter. Take care! Sincerely, Darkover
Author's reply
Thank you, Darkover! I'm very glad the story is improving with each chapter--and glad you were educated a bit! Vultures do indeed urinate on their own legs. Biologists believe it's to sanitize them from the bacteria on the carrion. Lovely thought, eh? I would imagine, if you could ask an eagle, they might express their disgust over the habit, so Durvain perhaps speaks for Eagles everywhere, or so I imagine! And Beorn is my favorite character in "The Hobbit", so it was fun to explore the possibilities for why he is the way he is, and how he might have been at the very end of his life. I think there had to have been times when the hard road Aragorn walked weighed heavily on his spirits, especially when he was tired, ill, or injured, or in this case, all three. But at the same time, it shows the strength of his character and faith that he never gave in to despair. I tried to show a glimpse of that strength in this conversation, even if Aragorn did sort of bumble and fumble his way to expressing himself! A concussion will do that... Thanks again for the review!
Larner · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
Poor Aragorn--he has been very unwell, of course. And no wonder he's thought he was hallucinating! Now--what causes the distress in Menelris? I hope the black eagle hasn't attacked Durvain in a cowardly fashion!
Author's reply
Thanks, Larner... I can't imagine being delirious and concussed and then brought into a man's home where the animals walk and talk and carry things in ways animals never have! Poor Aragorn really did fear for his sanity. And yes, what about those alarmed cries? The next chapter will tell!
Ellynn · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
Ok, first of all, I have to say that you seriously disconcerted little Tommy (not so little anymore, though). He was sleeping in my lap, and he was disturbed by my shaking and laughing while I had read the beginning of the chapter. I read Hobbit only once, and that was some time ago, so I don't remember any strange dogs or other animals. I suppose they are mentioned in the book, but I simply don't remember. And I have to confess that I don't like Hobbit very much.
Author's reply
LOL... my apologies to your cat! But I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter. I don't like The Hobbit as much as Tolkien's other books, but I've grown to appreciate it as time goes on and I've read it again. And the bits about Beorn and his animals are in there. That's actually my favorite chapter in the entire story. :) Beorn is so wonderfully dry and curmudgeonly... he's quite the character. Thanks for the review!
shirebound · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
Aragorn had no memory of the next two days, other than dim recollections of pain, sickness and confusion and, far more troublesome, visions of dogs walking about on their hind legs, sheep serving him drinks and more dogs tending the fire. He even imagined a little white pony who brought him blankets. Poor Aragorn, no wonder he thought he was going mad! Every chapter is better than the last, and this is my favorite so far. What a wonderful glimpse you've given us into Beorn's life and companions and wisdom.
Author's reply
Thank you, shirebound! I'm so glad you enjoyed Beorn--I had so much fun exploring his character and pairing him up with Aragorn. There's lots more Beorn to come; he really did sort of steal all the scenes. *g* Thanks so much for your kind words. :)
Elflingimp · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
Gandolf would surely roast him?? LOL! I had quite a few chuckles from this chapter which is always welcome! Hugs The Imp
Author's reply
Thank you, Imp! So glad you enjoyed this and got a chuckle or two from it!
Fantasia · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
Wonderful chapter, I was laughing with Aragorn thoughts and discoveries....But now I'm worry, what happened to the Eagles?
Author's reply
Thank you, Fantasia... so glad you got a laugh from this chapter. And yes, now to see what's going on with those Eagles!
LisaG · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 6: Grab Him and Eat Him and Spit Out His Bones...
Ha! I just knew it had to be something from Aragorn's past that was causing the intense fear of eagles! Poor little Estel...it's hard to overcome those childhood memories, even when they turn out ok. I was chased by a great dane dog when I was a kid...he thought I was playing, but I was terrified he was going to jump on me and bite me. To this day, I'm still a bit leery of large dogs, so I can relate to Aragorn's fears! Being so ill also isn't helping the poor man...who wants to try to deal with psychological issues when ones body is making you feel just awful. :( I think it's going to be a hard trick to get him calm enough to fly with the eagles!
Author's reply
Thanks, LisaG... yep, it was a childhood phobia that he never realized he had rearing its ugly head! And I think if I had been chased by a great Dane I would be leery of big dogs, too! I'm glad he didn't actually bite you. I think you're right in that Gandalf will have his hands full trying to get Aragorn to agree to fly. *g* Thanks for the review!
Elentarri · 24 January 2011 · Chapter 8: To Beorn's With All Due Speed
Hilarious! I can't wait for thursday's chapter ;D
Author's reply
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. :)
Estelcontar · 22 January 2011 · Chapter 7: The Dwarf Didn't Like It Either
Another great title for a most exciting chapter. I enjoyed the first part with Aragorn still trying to come to terms with his irrational fear of eagles, and his determination to ride atop of Durvain. The dialogue between him and Galdaf is very lively and delicious. The lumpy sack of potatoes is priceless. The second part when you have him and Durvain flying together is even better. I felt as if I were Aragorn flying over Middle-earth. Having Durvain tell Aragorn that he had carried a dwarf once and that the dwarf hadn't appreciated his flying antics either was a stroke of genius. The battle between the two eagles is just breathtaking, and Aragorn's great whoop of sheer joy is the perfect ending for this most exhilarating chapter. Your Durvain has got such a great personality it's going to be hard saying goodbye to him when the story is over.
Author's reply
Thank you, Estelcontar! So glad you enjoyed both halves of this chapter, and I'm glad especially you liked the reference to the dwarf... there's not a lot of fic out there that ties LOTR to The Hobbit and I wanted to make sure I did that in as many details as I could with this story. I like drawing connecting lines throughout all of Tolkien's works where I can, and I think to properly understand Aragorn's character, you have to see it in all contexts from The Silm to The Hobbit and then LOTR. Who knows, Durvain might fly again through another tale... I have a feeling I'll hate saying goodbye to him, too!
Linda Hoyland · 22 January 2011 · Chapter 7: The Dwarf Didn't Like It Either
Ah,poor Aragorn, I would have been scared stiff too even if it all went smoothly!Durvain reminds me a little of Temeraire,with his adorable personality. A most enjoyable chapter.
Author's reply
Thanks, Linda... I do wonder how much having read and enjoyed the Temeraire novels played into my creation of these two Eagles. I'd say they were definitely an influence, along with the true story of Freedom the Eagle. It's interesting all the influences that go into writing a character, isn't it. I'm so glad you're enjoying the tale. :)
Linda Hoyland · 22 January 2011 · Chapter 6: Grab Him and Eat Him and Spit Out His Bones...
Oh poor Aragorn that he has a childhood fear of eagles!You have made me feel very sorry for the poor Ranger and Gandalf trying his best.I'd like to read a story now about eagles bringing down as a coronation gift for Aragorn!
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! I'm so glad I've captured your sympathies for poor Aragorn (and Gandalf!). And I wouldn't be at all surprised if Durvain decided Aragorn needed down as a coronation gift. He seems that sort of bird, doesn't he!
Elentarri · 21 January 2011 · Chapter 7: The Dwarf Didn't Like It Either
Oh Thank you! for posting another Aragorn story. This is brilliant. I love your characterisation of Gandalf and Aragorn. Please post more soon. The eagles are great too. :D
Author's reply
Thank you, Elentarri, and you're welcome. :) I'm glad you're enjoying the story--chapters get posted on Mondays and Thursdays, in general (and if I can't post on either of those two days, I try to post the evening before). Hope you enjoy the rest of the tale!
Larner · 20 January 2011 · Chapter 7: The Dwarf Didn't Like It Either
No, the Dwarves didn't particularly like it, either! And I'm so glad that in the end Aragorn actually found himself enjoying it! Delightful! As for the southern eagle--he has a lot to learn, doesn't he? Thinking he can take on one of the Great Eagles, no matter how small!
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner! Yes, that southern eagle learned his lesson, I think. I'm not sure what went on once Durvain chased him beyond sight and after Menelris joined her mate, but I have a feeling it was painful! Glad you enjoyed the chapter!