Camp6311
· 30 September 2015
· Chapter 77: The Questions of Master Baggins
"He could no longer make sense of the murmured words of comfort, but all at once he felt a radiating warmth spreading from beneath Elrond’s hand."
I'm reading into this that Elrond is using Vilya's power to aide in Aragon's recovery, a decision that will quicken Aragorn's healing, but hasten his departure from Rivendell. I don't think anyone wishes that, but they all know it's necessity and what is at stake. It's already spring, and we know that the Nine will breach the river in June!
Author's reply
Happily they have a little more time than that: we are at the end of April, 3017. It is nearly a year before Gandalf has his fateful conversation with Frodo and fourteen months before the Nazgûl seize control of the bridge. Still, Aragorn has to regain his full strength and resume his labours as promptly as possible, poor man!
someone
· 30 September 2015
· Chapter 77: The Questions of Master Baggins
I think that Bilbo is one of the most loveable characters in Tolkien's world, and this shows it well. He had the most powerful object in Middle-earth and used it to escape tiresome relatives! The ring didn't have much to work with. His reactions in this story fit well with his personality, too, especially with Aragorn's scars and the brass brooch.
Interesting thought that Frodo is the only person to get the ring honestly. Perhaps it helped that he hadn't taken or even wanted it for himself at any point before the quest.
Elrond's gardens at spring are so different from the places you've shown us earlier in this story! The spot by the river sounds really nice. I like how Aragorn and Elrond are just sitting there in the grass. And the way Elrond presented the cup... Is that from where Thorongil's skills as a cupbearer in your other story came? The discussion at the end of the chapter is interesting, too.
Author's reply
I couldn't agree more about Bilbo: loveable is precisely the word for him! It's both profound and hilarious that the Ring found him, of all people, to be the agent of its escape. It's heartwarming to know that you found my portrayal fitting: thank you!
It was delightful to describe such a lovely place, especially after all the other settings! And yes: Aragorn learned his cupbearing from Elrond, who has it in his skill set from his early years as a retainer to Gil-galad.
Cimarron's Girl
· 29 September 2015
· Chapter 77: The Questions of Master Baggins
I know I'm repeating myself, but this chapter is once again lovely to read; it is an example of exceptionally high-quality writing and is very well-characterized. I am really pleased by your fantastic job of capturing the mannerisms of different characters! You have given every character, from Bilbo to Aragorn to Gandalf and Elrond, a distinct vocabulary and speech structure; a writer really has to get in tune with each character's mentality in order to do this, and you pull it off excellently.
I snickered at the part in the beginning, where Bilbo says he used the ring to "[hide] from Sackville-Bagginses on a Saturday afternoon." Sounds so very much like the Bilbo I have always imagined! I also liked Aragorn's promise to Bilbo about protecting Frodo. It adds a lot more depth to his statement to Frodo in Bree: "if by life or death I can save you, I will."
In addition, I am intrigued by your thoughts on the manner of the Ring's passage to Frodo. I had never previously considered the fact that Frodo was the only Ring-bearer (other than Sauron, I suppose, given that he created it) to really "come by" the Ring honestly. I'm not sure (it's been a long time since I read the books), but I don't recall that idea being explored in them. Anyways, this is a really clever detail to add, as it does make perfect sense.
I felt so sorry for Bilbo, though, when he saw the scars on Aragorn's arm from Gollum's teeth! Poor Bilbo, I hope he really does understand that none of the mess with the Ring is truly his fault. On the other hand, I'm sure it must be a great delight to Elrond, as a healer, to know that his foster-son has saved lives using the skills he was taught in Rivendell. There are few things comparable to the satisfaction and pride of a teacher hearing praise for the accomplishments of their student(s).
I did see one thing, an extremely minor error, in reference to Elrond: You wrote that "Aragorn looked at the Peredhil in mild surprise." I believe Peredhil is the plural form of half-elven and the singular is Peredhel, but I could be incorrect.
Once again, great job! I can't wait to hear more! Perhaps we will even get to see Aragorn's return to the Dunedain and meeting with Halbarad? That would be another interesting chapter to this tale...
Best wishes from the Washington woodlands! :)
Author's reply
Thank you so much for your beautiful words. These characters are all so very dear to my heart: I can think of no higher praise than to learn I've captured them. (And Bilbo's cheeky streak! There's a bit of him in Pippin, and no mistake!)
I love that quotation with a passion, and all that lies behind it. It was on my mind when I wrote that passage. I'm thrilled that you see it there, too!
Poor Bilbo! He does understand, but of course *feeling* it is another thing. There are notes of remorse in the Book, too.
Thank you for the correction! "Peredhil" was long ago added to my word processor's dictionary, while "Peredhel" was not: I most often use the adjective, rather than the noun! I'll fix it stat.
As for Aragorn's return to the Dúnedain... can't say.
demeter d
· 29 September 2015
· Chapter 77: The Questions of Master Baggins
Lovely. You have developed Master Baggins's personality wonderfully here. the friendship between the two really comes through. You are one author whom I would like to see writing the meeting between the two when Bilbo retires to Rivendell. There is one point that many do not mention. One of the reasons why the fatherless boy and his grieving mother could have a season of peace in Rivendell was that the Ring lay quietly in Bilbo's keeping, for long enough for Aragorn to grow. I also like your comments about Frodo and the Ring. The whole comparison reminded me of Lancelot and Galahad from the Arthur tales. Lancelot was a strong, noble man, but tragically flawed. Galahad came after him, and was known for his pure heart. Old threads woven yet again into new stories.
Author's reply
I love the friendship between Bilbo and Aragorn: it's a privilege to explore it. That's a very good point about Aragorn's own childhood peace being at least partly due to Bilbo's possession of the Ring! Indeed, the same could be said of his years of errantry and growth into the mighty leader he becomes. Had he been locked in war with an undefeatable Ring-possessing Sauron, he never would have had a chance.
Lancelot and Galahad are a wonderful parallel! Yes, it's precisely the same idea: essential innocence having a protective power that even the well-intentioned but fallible cannot.
Aromene
· 28 September 2015
· Chapter 77: The Questions of Master Baggins
Oh, poor, dear Bilbo. I'm glad Aragorn's words of wisdom made such a difference to him. He's such a dear, old soul. I always loved LotR era Bilbo the most.
Sounds like a lovely little corner of the Valley; I could use a little rock like that! I could also use some of Elrond's wisdom these days too. :)
Author's reply
Oh, I agree! Bilbo is amazing, and in his later years he's just such a beautiful, loyal heart.
I'm sure we could all use an Elrond in our lives!
shirebound
· 28 September 2015
· Chapter 77: The Questions of Master Baggins
What a marvelous chapter, especially the final two paragraphs. There are many layers to Aragorn in need of healing, and this is the place (and people) to aid him best.
These are some of my favorite parts of this chapter, all very perceptive ideas:
After all, it would be natural to assume such a treasure would be passed down from generation to generation
Now the One Ring, which seems to twist to evil any questionable act, can take no strength from the way in which Frodo came to hold it. He did not take it, did not coerce it from you; did not even know that it was coming to him until you had already made the gift. He alone of all those who have borne it is wholly untarnished in that respect.
And of course, since I love hobbits so...
It was another gift of Bilbo’s: to awaken mirth in the grimmest of recollections.
Author's reply
Thank you so much! It's great to know you like my reasoning with those points. As for the third, the hobbits' ability to bring cheer where it is least expected is one of their greatest strengths, isn't it?
Robnrun
· 28 September 2015
· Chapter 77: The Questions of Master Baggins
Even with the journey over, this story remains completely entrancing. Of course, stories don't end in real life when the action does! It is interesting to examine what is or is not said by people after such a trial. You have Aragorn telling his story in a very realistic fashion, what and how he tells it to Arwen, Elrond, and Bilbo creates a sense of depth.
I would be most intrigued to see his meeting with Halbarad, fifteen years absence and a great demand on an already stretched force, there would be tension between even the closest leader and his second.
I also have to say, I would love to read an epilogue of sorts. Does Faramir ever learn, in later years, what his part was?
Author's reply
Thank you so much! I'm glad the falling action isn't dull. That's always a risk, but I feel that there are so many unresolved issues at the end of this journey. Aragorn's method of telling of his deeds is always very illuminating. I'm delighted to know I've captured it.
As for the meeting with Halbarad... well, the absence wasn't continuous, but you're right! There will definitely be some tension with respect to these new orders.
I'm glad to know you'd like a follow-up! I'm actually going to be posting an Appendix of sorts, including among other things Faramir's discovery of his contribution to this quest.
NotACat
· 28 September 2015
· Chapter 77: The Questions of Master Baggins
Nicely done! I can imagine that Bilbo would have many questions, both pertinent and impertinent, but the thing he would most want to know is that he has not himself caused harm to Frodo.
Just a couple of questions of my own: is the brooch made of brass or bronze? As far as I know they are distinct: both alloys of copper but with zinc or tin respectively.
Also: "He took plucked the stopper" has an extraneous word (it only stands out because your copy-editing is usually pretty meticulous ;-)
Author's reply
Thanks for the redundancy check! I changed my order of operations in that sentence, and obviously didn't clean up properly. ;-) Fixed now!
And yes: the brooch is bronze. Mea culpa!!
I'm sure that fear for Frodo was foremost on BIlbo's mind, though he had to work up to giving it voice. Poor dear! There's no way he could have known, of course.
DoggieGirl
· 27 September 2015
· Chapter 77: The Questions of Master Baggins
Aragorn's strength of will is one of the most amazing things. It is very strong and does sustain him through all kinds of trials.
I also liked his conversation with Bilbo. Aragorn can help others feel so much better about situations so it is good o see others doing the same for Aragorn too. Elrond commenting that it was nice to hear that his protege did so well was also very good.
Author's reply
So true! It's his will, after all, that carries him through his greatest test, from wresting control of the Palantír from Sauron to mustering an army of thousands on the strength of his word.
It's lovely to know that you liked the scene with Bilbo, and seeing both sides of the coin. Thank you as always for the wonderful remarks!
Lily Baggins
· 26 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
a hard-worn invalid entering his middle years... oh, Aragorn, you do ever underestimate yourself!
I can perfectly relate to Aragorn's utter bliss at lying in his own room, in his own comfy bed. It must be heavenly after what he's been through.
The conversation between Arwen and Aragorn was lovely. To see their longing... and yes, I can perfectly understand their attempting to keep from thinking too much about their futures. They can't get lost in such hopes and dreams when the world is falling apart right now. They have to take happiness in each others' company TODAY, where they can, and be content. I think that is exactly how Tolkien portrayed it.
LOVED Bilbo... adorable as always. This chapter was awesome! Oh, Aragorn, don't smoke with those lungs!!!!
Author's reply
Yes, he tends to do that. ;-)
Thank you for your lovely remarks on Aragorn and Arwen! That longing, unfulfilled for so many years: they are such strong, beautiful people. So glad you liked Bilbo, too! He's an absolute joy, both to read and to write. I don't doubt he's equally marvellous to talk to!
And the smoking... yup! A little too alluring for our long-deprived Ranger, lungs notwithstanding. ;-)
This chapter was AMAZING. I so enjoyed the meeting in Elrond's study---Gandalf's little bit of huffiness over not being told everything, Elrond's gentle consideration as they tell him the news...
But the examination was the best thing---to have Elrond see the evidence of Aragorn's suffering with his own eyes was so touching. The whole sequence caught first, Aragorn's mild embarrassment and discomfort, as well as his shame at being so wounded. Loved the part where Aragorn felt rather discomfited to have Elrond holding his foot. :)
And the exam caught Elrond's utter care and love... while of course maintaining his professional healer's mien. The part with the bruises from riding was heartbreaking... which made me love it more.
Author's reply
I am delighted that you liked this chapter, uncomfortable though it was for Aragorn. I think it was important, both from a medical point of view and for Elrond's understanding. It means a lot to know I captured the unease and embarrassment as well as the care. A bit of huffiness from Gandalf is seldom out of line.
Your words on the last bit were very much appreciated, too. I hoped it would come out that way: thank you so much!
Anne
· 26 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
I really enjoyed this story. It has a very engaging style and well defined and fleshed out characters. I will have to read more of your writing.
I really liked a lot they way you write Arwen. She is a very really, strong, woman in your story. There is something though that I am kind of puzzled by. In the story you say that Aragorn and most probably Arwen too don't think very often about each other and their love for each other. To me that seems kind of impossible. If you are in love, enough to wait years in the hopes of wedding your beloved in a maybe or give up your immortality with family for your beloved, how can they not be thinking about each other pretty frequently. It might not be something that you think about constantly or even every day, but has to crop up at least a lot of the time. It almost seems like you are suggesting that they kind of forget each other when they are apart. I get that Aragorn is very duty driven and that he can't and won't do what his heart wants right now, but I don't think you can just stop thinking about what your heart wants just because you aren't going to have it right now. Maybe you can explain your view or interpretation of this so I can understand it a bit better.
But whatever the case, I still loved the chapter and hope I have time to read more of this story in the future. Keep up the awesome and original writing style.
Author's reply
Thank you so much, not only for your kind words but also for your reflection and your question.
Regarding thinking of one another while apart, I firmly believe that they often do. Arwen would have no need to school her thoughts as Aragorn does on this journey, for those thoughts pose no danger to her resolve. For Aragorn, however, when walking a road where the reasons to turn aside are already so numerous, it would be perilous to allow himself to dwell upon the one temptation that earnestly threatens to draw him away from his duty. Throughout the Book we see moments where he struggles with that choice: to go on, with the burdens and the responsibilities and all they entail, or to cast aside the Quest and seek the peace and the settled life that he has always yearned for. There are numerous instances in the course of his journey with Gollum when he skirts this idea, actively burying thoughts of Arwen because it would be far too easy just to fling up his hands and quit. He is avoiding what Tolkien would have understood as "the near occasions of sin": those situations in which we place before ourselves the allure of doing what we must not -- not transgressions in themselves, but acts that make it infinitely more likely that we will stumble.
As for setting aside thoughts of their specific hopes, I think this is only natural at this point in their life together. They have been holding these hopes for almost four decades now, while the world grows darker around them and the chance of achieving their dream seems to dwindle beneath the Shadow. There comes a time when a dream is more painful than uplifting to think of, and it becomes better to hold it secretly in the heart. Aragorn and Arwen are trying to find hope and support and joy in their present, imperfect as it is, because the future is so uncertain. Because both are foresighted, they are used to having some sense of what the future holds: being unable to see beyond the Shadow of the War of the Ring is disconcerting and terrifying for them both -- especially as this blindness extends to all the others (Elrond, Gandalf, Galadriel...) to whom they might otherwise have turned for reassurance.
I hope this helps to explain my thinking. Thank you again for asking! It's a treasure to have such thoughtful readers! I'd love to discuss it further if you wish.
Cimarron's Girl
· 25 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
Lovely chapter, again. The interaction between Aragorn and Arwen was sweet and well-done; I've read some stories that have overdone the romance between this couple, but you seem to have struck a perfect balance.
I also appreciated the mention of Moroch and the connection to Calmiel.
So glad Bilbo thought to give Aragorn some pipeweed! It's a nice touch to include, and Bilbo is well-characterized; I can almost hear his voice in my head when I read his lines. I imagine a smoke can't be to good for Aragorn's lungs, though.
Sorry I didn't review the previous chapter; it too was a pleasure to read, but I lacked the time to respond. At any rate, I was thrilled when I saw you had another chapter up in this epic tale. Your writing never disappoints me!
Author's reply
Oh, thank you! I did try to strike a careful balance with Aragorn and Arwen. Deep though their love is, they are also two grown people who have been betrothed now thirty-seven years: there should be a level of quiet comfort and dignity in their relationship. Glad you liked the visit to Moroch! I'm sure Arwen would have taken an interest in Calmiel, as a fellow migrant between two Elven realms.
Heh. Well, a smoke may not be the best for Aragorn's lungs, but it's good for his spirit! I'm glad you liked that, and I'm delighted to know that you liked the last chapter, too. Thank you for taking the time to comment when you are able: it's always appreciated, and I know JUST how busy Real Life can be! Cheers!
Aromene
· 25 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
I don't think I've made this comment before, but if I have I'm sorry for repeating myself. I adore your visuals. It doesn't matter if your describing Rivendell or Mirkwood or Aragorn's lonely road with Gollum; your visuals are amazingly graphic (in the design sense) and do detailed I can see it in my head when I'm reading those scenes. Love love love!
In specific for this chapter by favorite part was Bilbo showing up! I loved how he wanted to ask a zillion questions. :)
Author's reply
What a lovely thing to say! It's marvellous to know that it comes across so clearly: thank you. It's wonderful to know that the images come across. They're so clear in my own mind that I can never be sure if they truly translate, or if I'm filling in the blanks on my own.
Ah, Bilbo! Yup: questions aplenty from our dear old hobbit!
Camp6311
· 25 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
"Behind that lay toils that, if unworthy of song or tale, were at least just cause for the belief that he had in each instance given of his very best"
Finally, finally Aragorn is beginning to see his journey as everyone else from Lorien to Rivendell sees it, not as an almost failure, but as a successful completion to a 15 year mission. A mission that requied great strength and endurance of both mind and body. Being home, healing, and surrounded by those he loves is helping him put all he has been through into perspective.
And it made a pretty worthy tale too....
Author's reply
Thank you for the lovely feedback! That's exactly the shift that has to happen, and Aragorn's started on the path at last. I blushed a little at your last line: thank you so much!
TheAnswerIsDawn
· 25 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
Yay, Bilbo! I'm glad we finally get to meet him in person, after all the time's he's been mentioned. I wonder, will he ever know just how helpful he was to Aragorn?
Author's reply
Good question! I've been looking forward to this reunion almost since the very beginning of the story. I'm glad you're happy to see it, too!
someone
· 25 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
To tell the truth, I had forgotten that Bilbo would have been in Rivendell most if not all the time for the hunt. It must have been difficult to watch others look for Gollum, and know all the time that he shouldn't have introduced himself in that cave. But he really didn't have any way to know what would happen.
It doesn't sound sensible to smoke with fluid in the lungs, espcially when Aragorn has had trouble breathing! Even a healer is not always sensible with his health, it seems. I'm glad that he has a good bed to sleep in and nice clothes, and some very good company. He deserves it.
Arwen is a lovely, strong personality in your stories. I wonder, what sort of storied has Glorfindel been telling her...
Author's reply
Yes, poor Bilbo! He would indeed have been in Rivendell for the whole period: it was his reaction to leaving the Ring that sparked Gandalf's renewed interest in finding Gollum to learn of its history. Bilbo could not have known, as you say, but we see in 'The Council of Elrond' how he rued his choices.
Yup: even a healer is not always sensible. Of course, pipeweed is not as noxious as tobacco, and one doesn't *inhale* pipe smoke, but still... ;-)
I'm glad that my Arwen comes across as a strong personality. Thank you!
Aranadhel
· 25 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
Calmiel! Yeay! the fact that you mentionef about her and how ehem ehem Estel realized he doesn't remember her from Imladris! hahahaha glad that puzzle got sorted out. Hannon le. This story has made my day.
Cheers from Kuala Lumpur :)
Author's reply
So glad you liked that! Arwen would have known her and her history, and it seemed only fitting that she mention it: no doubt such expatriations are rare in these latter days. Cheers!
DoggieGirl
· 24 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
I love the relaxed feel and unhurried pacing of the writing. It really does make it feel like long deserved richly enjoyed recuperation. I, of course, loved the Aragorn and Arwen bit. I was interested in your perspective that they didn't like to discuss or dwell on their hoped for future together. I think your explanation why that was done was good, but I still can't help but feel that every once in awhile a little bit of shared dream or vision of the future can be greatly motivating through the long agonizing wait. Arwen's longing for children was an echo of Aragorn's own and was both sweet and sad at the same time. I still looking forward to aragorn's haircut. I also like Bilbo's meeting with Aragorn. I don't think Aragorn is too willing to be very helpful in composing a song about his journey. But I can't help but wonder if and when the song already written about Aragorn during his time in Gondor is going to come out. Gandolf is certainly not going to keep that to himself. And here in Imladris, in contrast to Mirkwood, I think a lot of people will know exactly who the song is talking about. That should make it even more interesting. Anyway, as always, I loved it and can't wait for more.
Author's reply
Thank you so much! I've tried to keep the pace appropriate throughout, and that applies to these chapters of healing as well.
I agree that the vision of a shared future can be uplifting, and I do not doubt they have both taken strength from it in the past. At this point, however, they have been patiently enduring for thirty-seven years while the Shadow only deepens. On the threshold of these great deeds and darkest times, I believe it would be more painful than encouraging to dwell on such an (insofar as they can see) improbable outcome. It's lovely that you liked Arwen's longing for children and its echo of Aragorn's own.
No, I don't think Bilbo will get much help from his friend the Donavan with *that* song. As for the other... *shrug*
Thank you as always for the lovely feedback! It's hugely appreciated, and always such a treat to read.
shirebound
· 24 September 2015
· Chapter 76: Glad Company
It was too beautiful, too terrible, so nearly miraculous in nature that at times it seemed impossible.
How they endured these years of paired despair and hope I can't imagine. Such a love story!
Food, rest, gentle scenery, glad company, and the frank and delightful speech of hobbits... here indeed will Aragorn find healing.
Author's reply
I agree completely: it's an amazing love story, and Tolkien crafted it with such remarkable depth and beauty. It's such a relief to have Aragorn in a place of healing at last. :-)
Lily Baggins
· 23 September 2015
· Chapter 74: At Journey's End
Wow. This chapter was perfect in every way. The slow build-up as they neared Rivendell and the sentries greeting Aragorn... and the continued concern about his health... Gandalf's worry...
And of course, I was there with Aragorn in spirit and could feel his disbelief when the the house came into sight. His utter exhaustion and first meeting with Elrond was wonderful---you so captured the love there. And how appropriate that Arwen watches on with love in her eyes, taking it all in.
And oh my goodness... all the concern and worry and care... and then at the last, the meeting with Arwen was wonderfully done. I love Aragorn's worry that he'll be laughed at in his wood-elf outfit, lol! Wonder what he's going to do with those boots? Put them in the back of an armoire? Give them to Lindir?
I can't think of a thing I didn't adore about this chapter...and well, this story as a whole. There are just too few stories in which Aragorn struggles over a long period with his health and recovery... so many authors want to wrap the story up too soon. I'm so enjoying how this story is taking its time and unfolding like real life.
Author's reply
Thank you so much! It is always simply lovely to hear that a reader feels what the character is experiencing. I am delighted that you liked Aragorn's arrival, and all that came after. I laughed aloud at the idea of giving the boots to Lindir! He'd wear such things delightedly, I'm sure!
The Professor was a master of falling action, and that's a rare thing to see. I feel we've all earned a gradual resolution, after such time and detail being given to the suffering. So glad you agree!
someone
· 23 September 2015
· Chapter 75: Gentle Wisdom
No matter how close they are, it must be a little embarrassing to go through every inch of skin to assess the wounds. In the end, if one is not so skilled in these matters as Elrond is, those already healed wounds no longer sound as dangerous as they were on the road. It is quite stunning how much trouble that twisted ankle gave, when in better circumstances it would have been just a little problem. But, there seem to be so many lingering hurts that it is hard to believe Aragorn will soon be up to travelling with the fellowship.
I really liked the part with Aragorn sitting on the desk. The embarrassment seems so real, I wouldn't like to have a head of state examine my feet, either! It is interesting how there are so many sides to Elrond: a lord and a healer, a wise counsellor and a loving father, a warrior and a lore-master... I have sometimes wondered how he has time for everything. Aragorn may have learned from the best possible source how to run a realm. The sarcastic comment was funny, of course Aragorn should have let the lynx maul him to save the ankle!
This chapter may be one of the most complete accounts at Smeagol's past. It is quite a sad story. The part with Gollum thinking of Bilbo as a professional thief after his preciousss is really funny, though. A reasonable idea from his point of view, but funny when compared to the real story.
Author's reply
I agree: it is a little embarrassing, particularly for Aragorn. Elrond, being so experienced in such matters (and, after all, the parent...), is less discomfited -- and he would not have had much time to feel it anyhow, being in such a turmoil of dismay and sorrow. It's great to know that the bit on the desk came across so clearly: thank you! And I agree completely: Aragorn could have had no better tutor in the kingly arts than Elrond!
Thanks, too, for letting me know the sarcasm really was funny! I find that so hard to gauge with my own work. Cheers!
Celeth
· 22 September 2015
· Chapter 75: Gentle Wisdom
I must tell you that tears came to my eyes several times over the course of that executive check-up, and most especially at the end, when the evidence of Aragorn's eagerness to reach his home was so painfully shown to Master Elrond. And what touched me even more than Aragorn's sufferings, was the way his foster father was able to read between the lines, often understanding the reasons for his wounds and injuries even when Aragorn cannot or would not speak of it.
Once again, thank you so much for sharing your talent with us readers. I keep wondering if you have published stories/novels aside from LOTR, and if so, what do you write.
Author's reply
What a gift, to know my writing moved you. Thank you for sharing that with me. Elrond understands Aragorn better than anyone else: Tolkien tells us as much in "The Ring Goes South". I do not doubt that to a man so often maligned and misunderstood, this is a balm and a blessing in itself.
Oh, no, I'm not a published author! I'm not ready for that. I dabble in a couple of other fandoms, though.
Aromene
· 22 September 2015
· Chapter 75: Gentle Wisdom
All I can say is :D ? I'm so glad you've brought this part of the story to the end and we finally get the whole telling all in one from both Gandalf and Aragorn! Elrond's reactions were spot on, and I especially loved Gandalf's reaction to Aragorn telling of Cirith Ungol.
Author's reply
Oh, thank you! I'm glad you liked this gathering of tales, and that the characters' reactions rang true.
DoggieGirl
· 22 September 2015
· Chapter 75: Gentle Wisdom
This chapter was really the beginning of the healing of so many hurts. I love Elrond's understanding and calmness and his deep reassuring voice and actions.
I was just waiting for the story of the great spider to come out. It couldn't be hidden forever. Poor Gandolf. Knowing that Aragorn does not speak chiefly about things that are terrible experiences, certainly doesn't ease his heart when Aragorn is reticent to tell all. I am sure Aragron's journey may prey on Gandolf's conscience for some time if not forever just a little.
Elrond's thorough medical examination was done to perfection. The cataloging of the individual hurts was something that needed to be done medically, and Aragorn accepted it and most importantly trusted Elrond with his hurts. Elrond's calm demeanor was reassuring to Aragorn and allowed him to tell some of the stories of some these terrible hurts without so much trepidation. But I am sure that inside Elrond heart was breaking with the picture that was developing more and more clearly of all that Aragorn had endured. The last bit about the bruising was so sad. I hadn't even really fully thought through what riding so long when so skinny might do. But the sight of it to Elrond must have been truly striking.
Loved it all.
Author's reply
Yes, poor Gandalf! I agree: he will carry some of that guilt forever, and we see it clearly in "The Council of Elrond". It is wonderful to know that you felt the examination went as it ought, and that it was valuable to see Aragorn trust his pain to another. Yes, Elrond is heartbroken here: it is never easy to know one's child has suffered. Thank you as always for your lovely remarks!