obsidianj
· 22 October 2016
· Chapter 10: The Battle of Lifewater Farm
Aragorn could show his talent as tracker. It was amazing what he could read from the tracks. That battle with the orcs must have been gruesome for the young men. At least 20 orcs and then fighting other men. I was sad to see one of the Rangers die. If something like this happens on every patrol, no wonder the Rangers are dying out. It takes at least 15 to 20 years to rear a new fighter...
Author's reply
We are told that Aragorn was the best tracker among Men in all of Middle Earth, so I wished to have this impressed upon his fellow trainees.
If you remember in ROTK, it was noted that the enemy could easily deal with the loss of a full battalion better than Gondor could a small company. Think of how much more serious the loss of single Men would be amongst the northern Dunedain! You have stated it so well!
obsidianj
· 22 October 2016
· Chapter 9: An Unexpected Detour
This was a learning experience for Aragorn, especially in how not to conduct a trial. It is a very uncomfortable experience to see the proceedings go wrong and not being able to do something about it. The King's Gift seems to be a two edged sword. It can be a heavy burden.
Author's reply
I am certain he would have found it a most alarming and frustrating situation to try to deal with, and it would have strengthened his resolve not to allow his own courts go this way.
And, yes, I do believe the King's Gift would have been a MOST mixed of blessings, but I think it would help make better rulers and leaders. When you KNOW you will feel what you mete out, it would definitely make you consider carefully your decisions, I'd think. The temptation might well be to allow everyone to know mercy--until you realized that if the one you were merciful to went on to kill or torture others and you'd feel that.
Thanks so!
PSW
· 22 October 2016
· Chapter 12: Rest and Recovery
What a coincidence! I guess it's good that they've all run into each other -- they can recuperate together. :-) What spot were they visiting? (Or did I miss it in there somewhere?)
Seems like Aragorn is charming everyone, if he's even convinced Orominian to willingly apologize. It's a shame he's injured, but at least he's in a group and not out trying to take care of it all on his own. I will be interested to see the meeting with Ivorwen and the others, and I'm starting to wonder if the time for his patrol-mates to find out about him is drawing near...
Good that they're helping out w the farm -- that's quite a few extra mouths to feed.
Thanks for writing!
Author's reply
In a previous chapter Halbaleg and his wife and daughter learned that Ivorwen had gone with her younger son to what stands of Fornost, with Ivorwen intent on seeing what needed doing for the old fortress to be restored so that as Aragorn grows into his position as Chieftain of the Northern Dunedain he would have at least one of the ancient sites of Arnor ready for habitation. Not having infinite wealth, I suspect it would take many years to bring it to the point of being livable, and in my-verse it isn't until Aragorn is accompanying the Fellowship south from Rivendell that Halladan and his family move into it to see decoration and furnishing started.
Yes, Aragorn is demonstrating his ability to even convince Orominion of the need to apologize. And, yes, the time draws near for his fellows to learn who he is really, and why. But, not quite yet. Heh!
As for helping on the farm--I'd think that this could well be among the duties of such training patrols, helping not only in protecting their people but also in seeing to it that in day-to-day activities those they are with are supported as best they can. After all, the warriors aren't just the elite who have everything handed to them. While they are off, I suspect neighbors are helping with their family homes, farms, and businesses to the best of their ability, so they'd best be willing to pay it all forward as they can.
Thanks so!
obsidianj
· 22 October 2016
· Chapter 8: The Emergence of Leadership
Aragorn is showing his natural skills as a leader. He learned a good deal from Elrond, but there is a talent for leadership that you either have or not. Elrond could hone his leadership talent, without it you can only go so far as a leader. I hope the Rangers can unite the young ruffians with their parents and find the real culprit.
Author's reply
As you now know, they did indeed return the boys to their families. And I am certain that part of the reason the descendants of Elros in the Northern Kingdom did spend time in Elrond's house was not only to hone that gift of leadership, but also to teach them to use it responsibly.
Thanks you so much for your feedback!
bee
· 22 October 2016
· Chapter 12: Rest and Recovery
I had completely forgotten about Ivorwen's party setting off; what a clever way to bring them back around into the story!
Here's a question that only just occurred to me, probably due to your always-flawless OC integration: is most of your Ivorwen/Dírhael family tree an educated guess (beyond Gilraen), or are these siblings mentioned somewhere in the Tolkien canon? I don't know anything about Halbarad's family; probably due to reading so much of your work I've assumed whatever you've written is canon. And if it isn't, it's certainly fanon at this point!
Author's reply
The Master did a lot in "Peoples of Middle-Earth" to fill in blanks within the Shire, Rohan, and Dol Amroth; but I'm unaware of him doing similarly for the remains of Arnor. About all we know is that the thirty or so Men who rode in the Grey Company Aragorn described as his kinsmen from the north, and that he was especially close to Halbarad of all of them. Halbarad's specific kin relationship to Aragorn is unclear, but I suspect that he was one of the first of the Dunedain near his age with whom Aragorn developed a good relationship, which indicates they were most likely in one another's company from the time Aragorn returned to his parents' people, which in turn indicates Halbarad's family must have been fairly closely related to either him or the one(s) who had ruled in Aragorn's stead since his father's death. It is probable that Halbarad was either asked or volunteered to help Aragorn work his way through the complexities of customs and behaviors now expected of him as their new Chieftain.
I am in good company, for in most stories of Aragorn's return that I've read, mostly on here or on the now defunct HASA site, Halbarad is described as a first cousin, the son to usually a son of Dirhael and Ivorwen. However, I think I remember in at least one case he was a much younger brother to Gilraen, and so was an uncle only a bit older than Aragorn himself.
In my-verse Dirhael and Ivorwen had two sons as well as Gilraen (obviously!) with Halbaleg having served as Arathorn's second and being accepted as his Steward, continuing on until Aragorn was judged a Man grown and ready to return home. I think I also thought at one time of them having a second sister, but am not certain where I would find the references to her at this point--possibly in "The Ties of Family."
In one story I read on HASA as my mind was first working out relationships for Aragorn's birth family his uncle was named Halbeleg, with the same spelling as Beleg Cuthalion; I kept putting an A in instead, so it's stuck that way.
So, if it's fanon, it's definitely MY fanon! Heh!
Thanks so!
6336
· 20 October 2016
· Chapter 12: Rest and Recovery
If this keeps up we will have Gandalf showing up any minute, at this rate the farm is going to run out of places to put people.
Some people find it very hard to apologize, for anything, no matter how serious the transgression, it took a lot of courage for Oriminrion to apologize, both to the farmer and to Adelia.
I am not sure I would be leaving Ivorwen's injury so long before it is treated, especially with a possible dislocation, even a break, the sooner it is set the better.
Ivoewen will be meeting up with her nephew? Great Nephew before to long.
Hope all goes well for them.
Lynda
Author's reply
Nah, I think they have far too many guests now, so Gandalf would possibly prove the straw that broke the camel's back. Enough IS enough, or for the moment, at least.
It won't be too long before Ivorwen and Peredhrion are able to interact, actually, although you are definitely right that the sooner the problem is dealt with the better the likely outcome.
As for Aragorn, as he is the son of Arathorn and Gilraen, and the latter is the daughter of Ivorwen and Dirhael, that makes him Ivorwen's grandson, the same as Halbarad, his brothers, and his sister--and any children Sedras might have as well.
Thanks so, Lynda!
UTfrog
· 20 October 2016
· Chapter 12: Rest and Recovery
Always glad to have a new chapter. Thank you.
Author's reply
Also am glad to have any feedback, so thank you, UTfrog!
shirebound
· 20 October 2016
· Chapter 12: Rest and Recovery
I look forward to the reunion between Ivorwen and Aragorn.
It's sad how little known -- and respected -- the "Ranger families" are, no matter where they go. And yet they retain their dignity, and don't let hope fade.
Author's reply
I so agree--the northern Rangers simply did not get the respect they more than earned. But, considering that they tended to do their protection on the sly, few had reason to realize they owed them any respect at all, unfortunately.
And indeed they did not allow hope to fade!
KathyG
· 15 October 2016
· Chapter 7: Three Days' Work
Have you noticed that you have 2 chapters listed as Chapter 7? This chapter is one of them. I know you didn't mean to do that!
This story is coming along very nicely. I like how Aragorn is learning to work with--and hold his own among--other men.
Author's reply
Thanks for alerting me. Fixed!
I would think this was a necessity, as he'd had very little (if any) meetings with members of his own race prior to this time. Thanks so!
someone
· 15 October 2016
· Chapter 11: Rivalry
It seemed so sure that the rivalry would be between Geldir and Peredhrion, either over the imaginary captaincy or Adiella! But then Adiella seemed to prefer Geldir from the start and Geldir seemed to respect Peredhrion, so there went my theories. Interesting that Orominion is not only "borrowing" from everyone but also a bit of a bully. Perhaps he just doesn't have much respect for anyone.
My favorite part of this chapter was the argument between Peredhrion and Malvegern, as the young man stood his ground and forgot for a moment his position as a trainee. More and more people are starting to notice something special about him!
Author's reply
At the moment Orominion's elation to have gotten through the fight unscathed is translating into too much boldness in other ways, I fear. To see Geldir get a peck on the cheek while he got nothing must have galled him, I think. Now he has to deal with all the outcomes of his indiscretion, including, I believe, his disgust at himself.
As for the confrontation between Peredhrion and Malvegern, I do believe that the older Man is getting his first true look at the Chieftain and eventually King Aragorn will become as he continues to grow into his place.
Andrea
· 15 October 2016
· Chapter 10: The Battle of Lifewater Farm
That was very well done by the rangers in training, especially Peredhrion's tracking abilities impressed me very much. On the other hand: He learned it from the Twins!
So, they proved to be a very good party, but one talent is obviously missing: cooking.
“Almost anything would be better than what we cook for ourselves!”
The solution of the problem is very easy: They need a hobbit in their party ;-)
Author's reply
Ain't that the truth, Andrea! Heh! Thanks so! And of course the Twins and Glorfindel especially would have done their best to make certain he was a credit to their teaching.
spinster
· 15 October 2016
· Chapter 11: Rivalry
Although chapter 12 is listed as having been posted, it is not there!
Author's reply
Okay--this has twelve chapters posted--a prologue and eleven proper chapters. What is officially marked as chapter eleven is in actuality the twelfth chapter.
Sorry for the misunderstanding. When I get all chapters posted to the other archives where this story is posted, this will be marked chapter 12 as Stories of Arda is the only one I use that allows numbering to skip prologues and epilogues.
6336
· 13 October 2016
· Chapter 11: Rivalry
Hm, physician heal thyself, Dr.'s and men make the worst patients!
Very surprised at Oriminions attitude, I expected better behavior from a Dunadan but there is always a rotten apple in the barrel. I do think Gilder should have hung around to make sure ori got out of the muck O.K.
Hope I spelled everything right!
Lynda
Author's reply
Perhaps not so much a rotten apple as it is that the young Man is too cocky for his own good at the moment. And Aragorn is already showing the realization that he won't always have backup when he needs it, and has learned to put down pain so as to concentrate on what he needs to do at the moment, which will be both a strength and a weakness for him eventually.
Perhaps Geldir might have stuck around, but if he saw Orominion sit up, I suspect he'd figure the taller and slightly older young Man could make it on from there.
And thanks, as always, for the comments, Lynda. Always a joy to hear from you!
shirebound
· 13 October 2016
· Chapter 11: Rivalry
to know that they’d been noticed favorably by Peredhrion of all people pleased him beyond his imagining.
I love both writing and reading about those moments of someone feeling high regard from a person they admire greatly. It can spur the most wonderful boost of morale and confidence.
Author's reply
Oh, I so agree, Shirebound! To know that Peredhrion approves of him and those he works and pals with most must have been very heartening.
Thanks so very much!
Matt
· 13 October 2016
· Chapter 11: Rivalry
Nice job on this chapter. A bit over-focused on the interpersonal relationships specific to Orominian but understandable as this helps show how all of the younger rangers interact when at relative rest. Thanks for your hard work on this, looking forward to the next installment.
Author's reply
For years Orominion has been an important figure in one specific way to Aragorn and the manner in which he came to his place among his own people. It's been fun to flesh him out from the cocky young guy I depicted in one story told by one of the Rangers to Hobbits of the Shire after Aragorn has become King of Gondor and Arnor.
And thank you for your comments!
PSW
· 12 October 2016
· Chapter 11: Rivalry
What a jerk. But he's gotten it good from any number of people in this chapter, so that's good...
As for Peredhrion ... it's a little comforting that someone managed to do something better than him, even if it was just jumping into a battle. ;-P Glad he's being taken care of now, though.
I'm enjoying, thanks for writing!
Author's reply
Oh, today Orominion is far too full of himself, isn't he? And he does get what he deserves.
As for our beloved favorite Dunadan--he isn't perfect, at least. Yes, he's getting the help he needs now.
And again, thank you for the comments.
Sunny
· 12 October 2016
· Chapter 11: Rivalry
I see that Galdir is starting to buils a good reputation with Aragorn, and is rewarded with Adiella cleaning his injuries - and possibly flirting, just a bit, with the glamorous stranger. Orominion, OTOH, certainly deserves getting plunged into both the pigpen and the swamp!!
Aragorn needs to learn that he won't do anybody any good if he's so focused on taking care of other people that he'll fall on his nose the moment the crisis is over.
Author's reply
After feeling he and his particular friends are being ignored, I think he deserves some recognition and a good flirt, don't you? And this time Orominion has gone too far, and has gotten what he deserves as a result. Heh!
As for Aragorn, you are right; but he's showing the character and determination that's going to help him find Gollum one day. He will always be one to press himself further than he expects others to go. But at least this time he does have backup when he needs it.
UTfrog
· 12 October 2016
· Chapter 11: Rivalry
Orominion is certainly getting what is due him, but I fear he still won't learn. I am thoroughly enjoying this story. Thank you.
Author's reply
You may be surprised, UTfrog. Heh! And I'm so glad you are enjoying it. This story is absolutely insistent I finish this ASAP. Thank you!
eliza
· 12 October 2016
· Chapter 11: Rivalry
One thing I always enjoy about your stories is that many of the "secondary" (for lack of a better description) characters are so nicely written out. I enjoyed this peak at Geldir.
Now unfortunately why do I get the feeling that Orominion has not finished causing trouble. humm, most bullies do not like being humiliated.
Author's reply
Thank you so very much! I love imagining what kinds of people surrounded our beloved Fellowship at different times in their lives.
Orominion didn't intend to become such a pain in the behind, but he did manage to get through this fight without a scratch and is at least a bit jealous that Geldir got the kiss he'd expected he should receive. I think he's getting the kind of response he needs for correction, for the moment, at least.
Orominion as the one who borrows without asking showed up a long time ago in my writing as the means to an important end, which should be written soon. Heh!
Dreamflower
· 11 October 2016
· Chapter 10: The Battle of Lifewater Farm
It's so good to know that at least one more family knows that Rangers are more than their reputation!
Author's reply
Oh, but I agree, Dreamflower! Thanks so!
(And, please, will there be a challenge this month? Pretty please with cherries atop it!)
Matt
· 8 October 2016
· Chapter 10: The Battle of Lifewater Farm
Just caught up the last several chapters of this fic. Really like how you're developing Aragorn's character as well as the others'. Curious to see if/how you integrate him into village life at the end of their patrol. Really glad to see you working on this fic as I greatly enjoy the "young adult Aragorn" genre and find far too little of it here on the 'net. Thanks for your hard work on these chapters as always, looking forward to more soon.
Author's reply
Somehow this work is insisting I finish it, so that I will, although I still need to get Eorl to Cirion's side. Heh!
Just a few last chapters to write. Thanks so for letting me know how you appreciate the story. It is so satisfying to learn my stories are being read and appreciated!
jc
· 8 October 2016
· Chapter 10: The Battle of Lifewater Farm
Hi there. I've been a fan of your writing for what seems like forever (you clearly know your Tolkienverse and it's so easy to slip your various works in as true-to-form supplemental material). But this story has especially blown me away, probably because Aragorn (and by turn the Dunedain in general) have long been my favorites to explore. I'm sorry if it's inappropriate to ask this here but I thought I'd try, given the scattered nature of the LOTR fandom: do you have any recs for other recently returned/trying to adapt, young Aragorn stories? Or anything on the early side of Aragorn with his people?
Author's reply
There are a number of such works here, although I can't remember all of them. I first started reading such stories with one written by Radbooks. I'll have to search to get the information. One was written a few months ago, also, but I haven't yet found it. Give me a time and I'll try to find more for you and put the list at the end of the last chapter when it's posted.
And thank you so for your opinion that my works do well as supplemental tales within the original. I am honored!
UTfrog
· 8 October 2016
· Chapter 10: The Battle of Lifewater Farm
Aragorn has received another good lesson in serving his people. Thank you.
Author's reply
And thank you, too, UTfrog! I am honored!
harrowcat
· 8 October 2016
· Chapter 10: The Battle of Lifewater Farm
Thank you Larner for my wonderful second birthday present especially as I have been such a poor reviewer this past year. My brother bought me welly socks at my request and my Dad forgot entirely.
I am glad that there is a less than dire potential reason for the farmer's absence although, judging by this chapter, his delay is still ominous.
Love to you and yours, Liz
Author's reply
I'm so glad you like it, Liz! Welly socks? If my brother bought me such things I'd brain him, I fear! Heh! But then I hate wearing socks anyway, although I'm supposed to do so for the circulation in my legs.
I do like to think that not every absence is totally terrible, and suspect that he and Baerdion will each arrive soon.
Love right back at you! Take care, and God bless.
iboneki
· 7 October 2016
· Chapter 10: The Battle of Lifewater Farm
Fantastic update. I loved the analysis of the tracks, the range of reactions (from impressed to surprised to incredulous), and the subsequent validation of said analysis!
Author's reply
Thanks so! It was said that Aragorn had a remarkable ability as a tracker, so it was fun to allow him to show off a bit. After all, years later he will have to track Gollum into and out of Mordor--not a task I envy him!