Marianel
· 16 September 2015
· Chapter 72: A Last Bitter Blow
How I love Gandalf in your story !His humour and thoughts of Aragorns "going-home- stubbornes", his kindness, his dark looks, anger and his fatherly but sometimes scary ways. I knew an elderly workmate of my moms on a summerjob I had in gardening while in school.He actually resembled Gandalf in many ways except for the wizardry.Unfortunately he passed on from cancer too early dearly missed.Guess thats one reason I easy took to like Gandalf😄 I was one of few of the many young summer stand ins who took to him and liked him though he was in fact also very kind but some people didnt understand him. Just like your Gandalf!
My favourite part is where Gandlaf presses they should go back to that dratted cave and rest and Aragorn is angry and frustrated.Poor Aragorn! I see both the miserable humour in Aragorns fears of going back and forth and the misery. I laughed there and sighed deeply and pitied them😆😁
Author's reply
Thank you so much! I agree: Gandalf is an amazing character. You're very blessed to have known someone so much like him! I am sorry to hear of the gentleman's untimely death. That's always so hard to bear.
It's lovely to know you liked Aragorn's fit of temper! It's certainly understandable at this point, poor Ranger.
Lily Baggins
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 72: A Last Bitter Blow
Oh my goodness... how much can I enjoy a chapter? Is it possible to sit and salivate any more while reading? No. A resounding no.
What a cruel blow to Aragorn, indeed. How utterly frustrating and disappointing to have to face another of his body's weaknesses---and on the way home, too. However, I think Aragorn must remember that if he were any other person, he'd likely already been dead by now. And it seems he does, stealing himself for more of the journey.
Nevertheless, his anger is palpable, and so well described here. So utterly realistic. And this chapter had the best line of the story yet:
For one so anxious to avoid bitter quarrels, son of Arathorn, you are sowing a mighty one now,' Gandalf said.
Perfection. Gandalf's stern worry is utterly wonderful, and it's also so relieving that Aragorn is not alone this time, but has someone looking out for him.
I am on pins and needles wanting to find out what happens next. Oh, Aragorn is yet unwell, and so utterly miserable, and so exhausted, and just aggravated as heck, and it is so wonderfully done!
Author's reply
It's so wonderful to know that this chapter suits your tastes so well! Aragorn's anger and disappointment are only natural, of course: a man can only bear so much, and he's been amazingly patient up 'til now. It was such a refreshing change to have him in trouble when there is someone he knows and trusts on hand to help him.
I'm tickled that you like that line! It struck me as very Gandalf. Thank you!
Lily Baggins
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 71: The High Pass
Well, it's official. This may be my favorite chapter of all. Hmmm... yes, it has all the qualities. Aragorn and Gandalf traveling... check... Aragorn feeling exhausted and having some difficulties... check... Gandalf concerned for Aragorn's health... check...
Seriously, this is absolutely to die for---Aragorn attempting to hide his weaknesses and keep up and Gandalf sternly questioning him about his health. It's perfect---especially the severe coughing and dizziness and well, the fact that Aragorn is still not well and has a good deal of recovering yet to go.
I bow to you---I am in awe of this chapter!
Author's reply
Wow! Thanks so much! I'm glad you liked the dynamics here. Yes, Aragorn still does have a lot of recovery ahead. He didn't get to this state in a couple of weeks: it won't be resolved that swiftly, either.
Thank you again: such extravagant praise!
Lily Baggins
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 70: Anduin Again
Ah, so nice to see that Freya is on the road to recovery, thanks to Aragorn! And the Beornings--how I nearly hate to leave them. I think Aragorn does, too.
That was a lovely bit with the ferryman's son. In fact, I am QUITE thoroughly enjoying this gentle, relaxed pace of travel and the banter and companionship between Aragorn and Gandalf. I'm so enjoying Aragorn's thoughts to how lucky he is to be traveling home instead of still on the road alone, frozen, and hungry.
I can smell the fresh air and see the sunshine here... very nicely done. I know that Aragorn and Gandalf are both concerned about the future and that weighs heavily on them, but for not it's just two travelers enjoying their freedom.
Author's reply
Yes, Aragorn does regret the parting -- though of course the allure of the road before him takes the pain from it. I'm happy you liked the scene with Makan, and the gentler pace of the chapter. I imagine much of their joint travels were like this, in between crises. Quiet companionship and steady progress and simple peace.
Lily Baggins
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 69: Repayment in Kind
Wow... this was a chapter full of wondrous detail and incredibly noble, gentle healer Aragorn, which makes me melt.
I praise you for the realism of this chapter. My sister suffered this after having a baby and nearly died. It started happening about two hours after the birth---I was with her in her hospital room when she started bleeding and I'll never forget it. The uterus simply wouldn't contract. I remember the nurses all massaging her belly for what seemed like hours and hours---finally the bleeding stopped. But they never did give her the baby to nurse, strangely---I don't think they knew to, looking back on it (I was very young when it happened).
So this chapter reminded me of that---so well done. Bravo!
Author's reply
Thank you so much! Realism is very important to me, and in this chapter a lot of research and preparation went into the details. Aragorn as Healer is one of my favourite facets in the Book: I remember when I first read it, reenacting the treatment of the Morgul-wound over and over again...
I'm sorry to hear that your sister had to endure that! How frightening and awful for both of you. You're right: the nurses may not have known that would help. Sadly some of those simple remedies are forgotten in modern medicine. The reason it helps is because nursing the baby releases oxytocin, the bonding hormone, in the mother's brain. Among many other things, oxytocin improves the tone of uterine muscle, easing spasms and helping the uterus to settle back into normal dormancy -- just what you need in the case of abnormal bleeding. (The herb Aragorn uses on Freya mimics the effect of oxytocin in the body, too...)
Ah, so Gollum is left behind at last... what a relief that must have been. I loved Aragorn's reaction to it, too... "Let us be gone."
Ah yes, those lung issues... they have never gone away, have they? And yet Aragorn steadfastly puts this problem in the back of his mind, it seems.
Wow, would I ever be glad to get out of Mirkwood---nasty place! The click and chatter of spiders, eh? Lord have mercy. Remind me that I do not wish I could fall into Middle-earth--it's a horribly dangerous place.
So much to love here with the Beornings, too! The children are adorable with Aragorn. And how like him to notice that Freya is not well.
Very enjoyable chapter!
Author's reply
Honestly, I was relieved myself. ;-)
As for Aragorn's lungs, there's little he can do *but* steadfastly put the issue to the back of his mind. Without bronchodilators, antibiotics, and nebulizers, his options are worryingly limited.
I don't think I could manage Mirkwood, either. I was a LITTLE too young the first time "The Hobbit" was read aloud to me, and those spiders still haunt my dreams. (Just kidding about the 'little too young' bit: you're never too young for Tolkien!)
Thank you for your kind words about the Beornings, too!
Lily Baggins
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 67: Finery, Flattery and Flight
I can't EVEN put into words just how utterly addictively enjoying this chapter was. It had everything---humor and chagrin at Aragorn's clothing---oh, the poor man, to have to endure wearing pointed boots! But I have to admit the embroidered tunic sounds charming---I'd wear it myself.
And then of course the entire feast was beyond spectacular... the description of Aragorn's worry about maneuvering around---and I did love this:
He raised his head and let his eyes glint regally, and he passed into the hall.
Aragorn showing his true heritage there... as he rarely has a chance to do, playing the beggar's part so often.
Ah, the food! The food descriptions were fabulous, as were the songs and entertainment and the overall glorious feel of it. But my favorite part? Aragorn dozing at the table and having to be carefully led and put to bed. Lovely!
Author's reply
Aah, thanks! It's refreshing to be able to enjoy some humour, and the wood-elves can always be trusted to deliver. Nice to know you like my clothing designs. ;-)
The feast was interesting to write for just that reason: it is a side to Aragorn's character that he is so seldom at liberty to show. So much so that it feels a little uncomfortable when he does (for him, I mean, not for us!). It's always nice to know when the food comes out well. I MUCH prefer writing about food to preparing it.
Lily Baggins
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 66: Prospects of Healing
How I love the Aragorn and Gandalf banter so incredibly much! I live for friendship fics with these two, and here, you can tell they're so comfortable with each other. That said, it's lovely to see Gandalf's stern side come out toward Aragorn, too.
The headache scene was very nice... no matter how much discomfort Aragorn himself is in, he never forgets the pain of others.
Author's reply
I'm so delighted that you like my portrayal of their friendship at this wonderful stage when they know one another so very well. I agree completely with your words about Aragorn's concern for those around him. Happy you liked that scene! Poor Gandalf: such a tiresome labour!
Robnrun
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 72: A Last Bitter Blow
I wondered on the hints about his cough and the blue lips!
What I like about this work is that the angst and the hurt is not without reason nor is it so overblown that it is implausible. There is no magic 'fixit' wand but the sheer strength of one very (lucky) determined man.
Author's reply
Thanks so much! Choosing such a dark piece of the story was risky just because of that: senseless angst is so dangerous. I'm glad you like the balance. And yes! Yes, Aragorn is very lucky...
Aromene
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 72: A Last Bitter Blow
Bravo, bravo! *claps* You know, I shouldn't be so happy to have Aragorn so miserable, but I'm kind of glad there's one last 'hurdle' to overcome. And it makes perfect sense too, in his condition, that altitude sickness would strike.
Author's reply
*wee little bow*
Thank you! I'm glad it makes sense. I thought so, too. And one last hurdle seems fitting, especially as this last road is not exactly a leisurely one. It's also nice to have Aragorn facing adversity with help and support for once...
Celeth
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 72: A Last Bitter Blow
Poor Aragorn! So near and yet so far. I feel for him. I used to love hiking, and climbing mountains, but I have weak lungs, and could never go past a certain height. It is a most distressing thing, to be so near the goal, and then unable to continue because your body simply gives out.
Still, I must confess I am glad they have not reached Rivendell just yet (I'm so sorry, Aragorn!) because then the story would be over. It's wonderful how every situation brings that sterling character to the fore. That last paragraph where he counts his blessings and "gathers his resolve about him like a garment", determined to withdraw but come back and fight another day, shows so clearly the kind of man he was.
Author's reply
Oh, it would be maddening! I'm sorry to hear you've had some experience with this sort of barrier. I can only imagine the frustration.
It's so sweet to know you're reluctant for the story to end! Makes me glad I didn't just drop the curtain when they cut Gollum's rope from Aragorn's wrist. ;-)
Thank you for your lovely words about the situations illuminating his character. Thank you!
Elentarri
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 72: A Last Bitter Blow
Oh, well done for remembering altitude sickness. :) It would never have occurred to me. Love the Aragorn and Gandalf interactions.
Author's reply
Thanks! I thought it was logical.
I too love these two together: such amazing characters, and such a unique friendship.
shirebound
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 72: A Last Bitter Blow
What a wonderful, deeply-forged friendship. How Gandalf must have worried and grieved when the mortals whom he loved were in danger.
Author's reply
Oh, yes, yes! We see it so clearly in Book 6, in his fear for Frodo and Sam. A burden of immortality: to know he will inevitably be severed from them forever.
someone
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 72: A Last Bitter Blow
When I saw the chapter title, my first thought was: "What are you going to throw at him now?!". Well, the lack of oxygen and the low pressure seem to be something they really can't avoid. The height of 13 000 feet, partly on foot... What a pity there is no easier route nearby. I'm feeling sorry for Bilbo, also, having to go through that after living all his life near small hills.
It is almost hilarious to see Aragorn wrathful as the mountain sickness dared to affect him, after he has suffered patiently through so much worse illnesses. His sleepiness in the cave may have been partly from the fire using most of the oxygen... Nice detail! And Aragorn couldn't have a better horse on that journey, as Moroch seems to be careful and trusting.
Gandalf is now showing his kind, caring side more than ever. It is hard to cross mountains with a man in that condition and without knowing much about healing. They need now a few large eagles willing to take passengers, but somehow I doubt that is going to happen.
Author's reply
Yes: I didn't so much "throw" at him this time. It was just sort of inevitably in his path. And yes, poor Bilbo! That section reads with such dreary misery, and I always just want to give the brave little hobbit a hug.
Hey, sooner or later the most patient tempers must crack. Nicely noted with the cave. Another thing that would not have affected him in the normal way of things, but with the confluence of circumstances...
I do feel badly for Gandalf. He's helpless to do much at all.
I cannot *imagine* how the horses would react to the arrival of a band of Eagles!
TheAnswerIsDawn
· 15 September 2015
· Chapter 72: A Last Bitter Blow
Oh no, poor Aragorn! I was just thinking reading the last chapter that the last thing he needed was to get Altitude Sickness, and alas. Thank goodness for Gandalf though
Author's reply
Indeed: without Gandalf this would be a disaster! Very astute reading. ;-)
aromene
· 14 September 2015
· Chapter 71: The High Pass
I have no idea what I'm going to do when this is over. Cry, probably. Then reread it. I love that you haven't skipped the mountains!
Author's reply
Aw, that's so sweet! I'm glad to know you're happy to be in the mountains. I would have felt VERY guilty skipping this last hurdle, after going through all the others so thoroughly. It's not a *small* barrier, after all.
someone
· 14 September 2015
· Chapter 71: The High Pass
This chapter, with Gandalf and Aragorn almost on their own, shows well how deep their friendship is and how it is hard to imagine anything that they wouldn't survive on this journey. They really are a good team.
I really liked how Gandalf compared Aragorn's expression to that of a child dreaming of sweets! That is a side of Aragorn that I can't remember having yet read in this story. It sounds like a very fitting comparison.
Did Makan want to give back that which they exchanged on the first crossing? I can't remember what it was called... but the thing one can make fire with?
I'm glad that even though the chapter was about starting an unpleasant crossing of the mountains, you left us (and A&G) with a shelter from the wind and toasting honey-cakes!
Author's reply
I agree: such a good team! It's wonderful to write them out in the wild on their own, for just that reason. I'm glad you liked Gandalf's remark about Aragorn's thoughts of his beloved. I've explored just about every other corner of his character: now it's time for this one.
Well, Makan was definitely thinking of returning the firesteel... (its the thing that you hit with the flint to make a good spark)
It was nice to leave our heroes in relative comfort for once! Happy to know you liked it.
UTfrog
· 14 September 2015
· Chapter 71: The High Pass
Those mountains must be high indeed. I appreciate the realism of Aragorn's recovery. He is not immediately at full strength and you are showing his long recovery. As always, thanks.
Author's reply
Oh, they are. In The Hobbit, Thorin and Company get way above the treeline, and close enough to the snow (even in July!) that its troublesome for them. I'm glad you like the realistic pace of Aragorn's recovery. Considering what he went through, it would take time to return to his full vigour.
Oh my, such a lovely chapter full of discomfort and tending for our poor ranger! How much did I enjoy Gandalf and Helegond speaking as if Aragorn were not there? And Aragorn's slowly growing irritation was wonderful---haven't we all been there at some time or another (though surely in better shape than Aragorn, I'm sure, and certainly not suffering from the same afflictions!).
I live for chapters such as these... Aragorn neglecting his health for the sake of the greater good... there's nothing better. Oh, he still has a long way to go... I worry about his traveling too soon.
This was such a pleasure to read.
Author's reply
I'm sure it's a universal convalescent experience! I'm glad you liked this chapter. I felt it was very in-character for Aragorn to do just that (exactly WHEN did he sleep between Bree and the meeting with Glorfindel?? And, apart from that one night, between Dunharrow and dawn the day after the Pelennor?). And, of course, having Gandalf to fuss over him is always wonderful.
Celeth
· 13 September 2015
· Chapter 71: The High Pass
I love the interaction between Aragorn and Gandalf, especially when Gandalf loses his temper, so in tune with Gildor Inglorion's description of wizards, and Aragorn's patience in his wise responses, a bit like his foster-father, but still occasionally losing his patience as well. Aragorn may be wishing for a lonely road at the end of this chapter, but I could read volumes and volumes of similar stories about their adventures and journeys together, if only such stories existed!!!
And you make their adventures seem so real, with your realistic descriptions of the High Pass and their road through it. Do you climb mountains too?!
I must say too, how I love the gruff way Gandalf shows his concern for Aragorn's welfare. I feel sad that this story seems to be winding to a close. But I hope so much that there will be another story, and more. I am sorry if I am so "greedy," but I just can't help it.
Author's reply
Thank you so much! I love their friendship, and it's wonderful to explore it. They really are equals in all but origin, at least at this point in the proceedings. It makes for amazing dynamics.
Naw, I don't climb. Though I have spent my share of time up in some very lofty mountains, I usually take more modern means to get there.
I don't think you're greedy: I'm flattered!
Lily Baggins
· 13 September 2015
· Chapter 64: Conflagrations and Conjurations
Wow. I was unable to tear my eyes away as Gandalf ranted and raved to Aragorn... and yet Aragorn took it kindly and seemed to understand. I can certainly understand Gandalf's anger and guilt just beneath the surface, and it shows beautifully here.
This entire interrogation is so wonderfully detailed, down to each small thought and feeling. I'm eager to see where it leads---but a bit nervous about that, too, because I know the news will not be good.
Author's reply
Yes, Aragorn always does seem to understand what people are really needing to express, however they say it. I'm so happy to know that particular outburst was effective: thank you.
What a chore for Aragorn and Gandalf... and how it shows their devotion to fighting evil and darkness. I can't even imagine the toll this is all taking on Aragorn, physically and emotionally.
And Gollum is as well-characterized here as I've ever seen him... utterly, mind-bogglingly (if that's a word) frustrating.
Author's reply
These scenes were wearisome to write at times, too. Writing Gollum is a bit like writing the world's most vitriolic reboot of "Green Eggs and Ham": you only have fifty words to work with, and they just keep circling around and around and around again.
Lily Baggins
· 13 September 2015
· Chapter 61: Water in the Wilderness
‘I lack your patience, Dúnadan,’ Gandalf muttered. ‘You endured him for fifty days. After five I am ready to fling him into the river.’
Ah, I absolutely adore your Gandalf. He's the perfect blend of cantankerousness and gentle nobility... and I laughed at loud at that statement.
I loved your fastidious tailor, too... maybe they should have sent someone who is NOT responsible for robing Thranduil to make Aragorn's clothing! But I have to admit---while I understand Aragorn's reasoning, I'm sure he did look extremely good in blue. Come on, Aragorn---live a little! How about one nice set to wear around the halls and one in dull green?
I also enjoyed Aragorn's thoughts about having the weavers of Imladris weave cloth to resemble cheap wool... I never thought about that, but of course he'd not want to call attention to himself.
Thoroughly enjoyed!
Author's reply
It means a lot to know that you like my characterization of Gandalf. Thank you!
The tailor was a lot of fun! It *would* be nice to dress Aragorn up in lovely bright colours, wouldn't it? Happily the upcoming Thorongil story will have some scope for that. (shameless plug!)
Yup: high quality cloth would be a real eyebrow-raiser in a society where clothing was the most readily apparent gauge of social position.
shirebound
· 13 September 2015
· Chapter 71: The High Pass
Poor Aragorn, still far from the healing he needs and deserves. I hope Rivendell, Elrond, and Arwen are a balm for his mind, heart, and body.
Author's reply
Ah, how can they not be? I've been longing for these chapters myself almost since I started writing this story.
DoggieGirl
· 13 September 2015
· Chapter 71: The High Pass
I loved how Gandolf knew exactly that Aragorn was thinking of Arwen and his "wistful eyes and tremulous smiles" comment. Aragron is such a man of duty and heroic action that we don't always see his tender longings for his beloved to be loved by her in return. His character is so strong in so many other aspects that his feelings of love could be no less deep. I can't seem to recall you ever writing about Aragorn and Arwen directly before, so I am very interested in how you write their interaction and deep connection when they get to Rivendale. You have surpassed almost all other authors in depicting Aragorn's character in its depth of nobility, duty, patience, endurance, endearing stubborness, courage, and real humanity. This whole story has been really good and fleshing out that character.
Poor Aragorn. He just can't seem to get a break in health can he. He is still sick. I think a long prolonged rest at Rivendale is in order. At least there he will feel comfortable surrounded by his family and Arwen. And of course, there Gandolf will have at least four more allies perfectly eager and willing to insuring Aragorn doesn't further hurt himself due to his own stubbornness. Truthfully, I can understand both side quiet well. I hate to make a big deal when I am sick and don't want people to worry about me and such and kind of hide things from them so they don't. But on the other hand, I do want to help the people i love when they are hurt. Especially if it is something potentially pretty serious. Looks like Aragorn will be coming into Rivendale not so recovered and hale and healthy as he thought. Of course, the prospect of Arwen being his nurse to health might make a resting full recovery alot more attractive to ARagorn.
Anyway, I loved the chapter as always and can't wait for more.
Author's reply
Thank you so much! It's so true: Aragorn holds his longing for Arwen so close in his heart that we only ever catch glimpses of it. I really do believe that this is why, though: that temptation to simply run away with her as Beren did with Lúthien is the one thing that truly threatens to draw him from his duty. That is why Elrond's proscription is such an act of love.
I'm honoured that you think so highly of my depiction of Aragorn. Thank you. It means more than I can say to read that.
And yes, yes he *is* still unwell. He won't rest properly until he is home, though. Gandalf can definitely use the help, too!