No Better Name by Cairistiona
shirebound · 4 October 2011 · Chapter 7: Hanging On So Delicate A Thread
Halbarad gave Aragorn a fondly exasperated look. "When will you ever learn?" "How long do exiled kings of Númenórean descent generally live?" I love the banter and love between these two.
Author's reply
Thank you, shirebound! I try to write them as each considering the other the brother he never had. And close-knit brothers banter. A lot. *g*
Suzelle · 4 October 2011 · Chapter 7: Hanging On So Delicate A Thread
Oh, this was lovely as ever. Though sad! Poor Aragorn, to go through all of that with no thanks at all, only to fall so ill...it is a very, very good thing he found Bowen when he did, that much is quite clear. But Halbarad's no-nonsense sympathy makes it better, at least. I love that he refuses to ever let Aragorn blame himself needlessly, the man needs someone like that around! Also, I think I'm starting to figure out why Denlad's in such a bad mood... D:
Author's reply
Thanks, Suz! It was terrible, wasn't it, what poor Aragorn went through. I wanted to give the reason why he seemed so down-and-out in the Prancing Pony when Bowen first met him, since it seemed like, even as I wrote that first story without knowing the reason behind it, there was more going on with him than just not feeling good because of a sore throat. It a sad, thankless task poor Strider endured, which was probably more typical than not when it came to Breelanders and Rangers. His situation with the Rushlights is definitely the exception to the rule as far as acceptance and fair treatment. What would Aragorn do without Halbarad! I like to think that maybe in Faramir he found another Halbarad, because Arwen surely couldn't be expected to have to pound her husband into shape every time he started getting down in the dumps. That's more than any wife should have to deal with without outside help. *g* I would *love* to hear your theory on why Denlad's in a bad mood. *g*
Vilwarin · 2 October 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
No, of course Strider does not believe in huge, dangerous spiders. What a silly notion. ;) Oh, and Bowen an educated man, him being able to read. And Halbarad's books no less! It must be good for him to see that they serve to bring joy to another person and are not lost somewhere in the wild.
Author's reply
Thanks, Vilwarin! I liked the idea of giving Bowen a twist by having him owning a few books. Having them be Halbarad's old ones adds a nice little background detail to Halbarad as well. I have a feeling Bowen might be completely shocked at what Strider believes in. *g*
Nath · 2 October 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
Of course, those men also thought there were giant spiders living in enchanted woods far to the east. Indeed, the very thought is ridiculous! And Halbarad does have some nice manners once he stops glowering at poor Bowen, starting with the taking off his sword. I'm in a melted puddle of Awwwwwww after your description of Halbarad looking in on Strider (and there's a Ranger in need of a hug, no mistake). Of course, I'm also burning with curiosity about the back story for the books...
Author's reply
Thanks, Nath! Yay, I melted a reader! *what I live for* h/c is always such a fun thing to write with those two. As to Halbarad's back story... that too shall be posted in a big story, eventually. :)
Nath · 2 October 2011 · Chapter 5: A Ragtag Stray Like Strider
Well, it took a bit of doing to get him there, but Strider's in a good place now. Bowen and Flora are a sweet couple.
Author's reply
Thank you, Nath... yes, it was a bit of a slow road getting Strider home, but at least he's there and tucked up in bed where he needs to be!
Larner · 2 October 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
I find I rather like Ruddy already, and love the thought of Halbarad finding his father's books here, well cared for and loved. Yes, a hawk indeed to Strider's Eagle, both doing their best by all they meet. Excellent!
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner! "...both doing their best by all they meet." I love that you said this, because that's how I see the Rangers always conducting themselves. A remnant people who thanklessly guard those who hold them in contempt must really be a cut above when it comes to generosity in attitude and behavior. And yay, you liked Ruddy! His tale is thumping happily to hear that. :)
Larner · 2 October 2011 · Chapter 5: A Ragtag Stray Like Strider
I'm glad his reputation has preceded him. Strider will be able to help her once she's helped him. Love this family.
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner! So glad you like the Rushlights!
Suzelle · 1 October 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
Oh, Cairistiona, this is such a delight. I can't even tell you. But wait! Yes I can :D. I love the analogy of Aragorn as an eagle and Halbarad as a hawk. So very fitting :D. The initial meeting of the Rangers and Bowen was everything I could have hoped for and more. I love that even after hosting Strider he's still so suspicious of them, and they of him, until Halbarad finally becomes slighty more warm and fuzzy :P. The mustard poultice LOL! Poor, poor Strider...so good that he's in Flora's hands right now (and I really love Flora!!). And oh, the exchange between Bowen and Halbarad about the books was such a beautiful touch. It says so much about Halbarad, and the Dunedain, and Bowen himself all in one fell swoop. My heart is fit to burst with love for them all.
Author's reply
Thank you, Suzelle! I'm so glad you liked everything that was going on in this chapter--there really was quite a bit this time, wasn't there! And "slightly more warm and fuzzy" is probably about as close as most people, at least most Breelanders and non-Dunedain folk, would ever describe Halbarad. I have a picture in my head of what he looks like and "soft" probably only applies to his hair! *g*
Linda Hoyland · 1 October 2011 · Chapter 5: A Ragtag Stray Like Strider
A most enjoyable chapter though I fear for poor Strider. I just love Bowen's wife.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! So glad you like Flora... I wish she were my neighbor!
LisaG · 1 October 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
Bowen's (and most of Arda's) prejudices against the Rangers was so sad to read. I like that you make them a noble, learned people that are simply misunderstood. Lovely scene with Halbarad and Strider, though Aragorn was sleeping. Nice to know so many are looking out for him. Lastly...mwa ha ha ha ha...Aragorn afraid of a spider! Oh the images in my head! :D
Author's reply
Thanks, LisaG! Hee... I have a feeling the only spiders Aragorn is afraid of are the Mirkwood/Mordor variety. I imagine little spiders are no good deal after you've had to deal with those! As for my making the Rangers noble but misunderstood... I think mostly I'm just carrying on with how Tolkien wrote them. He created in the remnants of the Faithful a people just as noble as the Edain when the Valar granted them the Land of Gift. It just took a long time for everyone to figure that out (and I wonder if some never figured it out even when Aragorn came back as king!).
Elflingimp · 30 September 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
What a wonderful chapter! I just love your tales with Hobbits and Strider, they are comforting in a way. Hugs The Imp
Author's reply
Thanks, Imp! Although there aren't hobbits in this story, I think some of the more honest and good-hearted Men in Bree had the same sort of mindset as the Hobbits... caring and goodhearted and generous in the way that rural folk are. Definitely a folk to make a person feel comforted (and comfortable)!
Estelcontar · 30 September 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
Now that Denlad and Halbarad have arrived at Bowen's farm, I see poor Aragorn hasn't got a chance. He's going to have to put up with the four of them mothering him. Something tells me that once he wakes up, he is going to wish he were still sleeping. LOL And Bowen is learning a lot of things about "them rangers", isn't he? So Bowen's treasured books used to belong to Halbarad. What a good way to highlight Halbarad's intrinsic generosity. Most enjoyable chapter indeed.
Author's reply
Thank you, Estelcontar! No, Aragorn hasn't a chance at avoiding cossetting now! But he needs it, so it's just as well he has no choice. *g* Glad you're enjoying the story!
Fantasia · 30 September 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
This chapter is so bittersweet. I laugh with he details, the mustard poultice, Halbarad's long hair, Denlad's muteness, Flora's flattering with Halbarad. And then, feel so sad about the book's story, Halbarad's melancholic about the Dunadan fate. Really, a wonderful chapter.
Author's reply
Thanks, Fantasia... there is a sort of bittersweetness to this chapter, though I hadn't really set out to write it intentionally. I guess with Tolkien there's always going to be those bittersweet moments, isn't there. Eventually everyone will get to hear the full story behind those books and Halbarad's younger years, and it *is* bittersweet, just as he says.
Elentarri · 30 September 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
Brilliant. Love the bit about the books... wonder how the pedlar came by them? :)
Author's reply
Thanks, Elentarri! I suppose that peddler was like most, digging everywhere for something that he might be able to sell, but unlike most, brave enough to go north of Fornost where normally only the Rangers go, looking for abandoned goods!
Marethiel · 30 September 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
"The man actually smiled back, and like Strider, it did changed him completely, though he’d never look warm and cozy. If Strider were an eagle, this one was a hawk and no mistake." I can completely see why you chose this as the chapter name. These sentences are immensely satisfying! Indeed this whole chapter was lovely. Flora is a delight, and I love how Bowen cuts right to the heart of things, simply, elegantly, without pretense. Just lovely, looking forward to more! Marethiel
Author's reply
Thank you, Marethiel! I love that you described Bowen as "without pretense" because that's exactly how I see him. He's very down to earth and pretty much calls 'em as he sees 'em, without too much in the way of tact (to his own chagrin at times!) or artifice. And your copy/pasting showed me a typo--"did changed". Good grief. Yup, I are a right-ur. :~P Funny how you can look at a thing over and over for weeks and still not catch those little typos! Glad you liked the chapter!
UTfrog · 30 September 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
Love the title. It fits so very well. Bowen and his wife are developing into very real people. Thank you for a good story.
Author's reply
Thank you, UTfrog! I'm glad you like the metaphor for Halbarad. I've always pictured him with the sort of fierce visage of a hawk. Birds of prey seem to suit Rangers! And glad you're feeling like Bowen & Flora are becoming more real... that's always my aim!
shirebound · 30 September 2011 · Chapter 6: This One Was A Hawk And No Mistake
Such a dear final line to this chapter! I hope the Rangers are able to tell these good folks many tales, and maybe even bring them a few more books over the years.
Author's reply
Thank you, shirebound! I was thinking myself what a nice gift books would make for Bowen. He'd be tickled to death, getting more of those books with the fancy-like leather covers. :)
Mysterious Jedi · 29 September 2011 · Chapter 5: A Ragtag Stray Like Strider
Charming story. I hope to see more soon.
Author's reply
Thank you, Mysterious Jedi! Glad you're enjoying it. I'm posting chapters on Tuesdays and Fridays, so one coming up tomorrow.
bookworm · 29 September 2011 · Chapter 5: A Ragtag Stray Like Strider
Bowen and Flora are So. CUTE. Hi sorry I have nothing constructive to add except that. Excellent story! *runs off to hide in embarrassment*
Author's reply
Come back, come back! *g* Don't ever feel you need to be shy with me. I don't bite, promise! I'm very glad you're enjoying Flora and Bowen and the story. Thanks for letting me know! And really... quit hiding! :)
Linda Hoyland · 28 September 2011 · Chapter 5: A Ragtag Stray Like Strider
I am enjoying this very much. I would have loved to know how Bowen got Aragorn to take a bath, though, LOL.I loved Halbarad here and his concern for his friend, while Bowen is a treasure.
Author's reply
Thanks, Linda! I'm glad you're enjoying this tale. I imagine Aragorn was probably more than eager to jump in that tub to get the mustard stench off of him! I have a feeling Bowen had more trouble keeping him from ripping off the poultice and jumping into the water too soon. *g*
LisaG · 28 September 2011 · Chapter 5: A Ragtag Stray Like Strider
Ah, there's our dear ranger...always concerned with others instead of himself no matter how sick he is! But that's why we love him so, huh? :) Maybe he'll stay around to help Flora deliver her baby, too...well, he has to recover first!
Author's reply
Yep, he'll definitely have to recover first... and get to the point where he's no longer "catchy"! Right now I don't think he'd want to be in the same room with her. :)
LisaG · 28 September 2011 · Chapter 3: Strider Said Nothing
I love the character of Bowen...a true friend and good Samaritan!
Author's reply
Thank you... wouldn't it be great to meet a Bowen in real life!
LisaG · 28 September 2011 · Chapter 2: I Liked You Better As A Weepy-Eyed Lad of Nineteen
hee hee hee...i love how denlat handles halbarad! that young man is much smarter and wilier that anyone realizes! so, when they get to bree, they're going to find out their fearless leader is sick...uh oh!
Author's reply
Denlad really is a wily youngster... you'd think Halbarad would figure that out! Thanks, LisaG!
LisaG · 28 September 2011 · Chapter 1: Never Have I Nursed A Ranger
oh kewl! a new story...continuation of the previous short. yay! poor aragorn, that stubborn ranger! i'm glad bowen was so adamant about helping him...we can't have our sweet dunedan falling down in the middle of the road from pneumonia!
Author's reply
Thanks, LisaG! No, we certainly can't have our Ranger dropping into a ditch too sick to go on and miles from help! Bowen to the rescue! *g* Hope you enjoy the story.
Vilwarin · 28 September 2011 · Chapter 5: A Ragtag Stray Like Strider
So... Rivendell isn't the Last Homely House east of the Sea after all! Rushlight Farm sounds like a really welcoming place for those in need. And Bowen has a great hostess in Flora. I can't wait to find out how they'll deal with their unexpected guests.
Author's reply
No, there's at least one other homely house in Middle-earth. :) (Actually, I imagine there are more than a few, but of course, Elrond's is the Homely-est of them all!) Flora does well to make their cottage a refuge and welcome to all, even dangerous-looking Rangers. Glad you're still enjoying the story!