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The Hidden Days of Healing  by Linda Hoyland 6 Review(s)
Lady SarumanReviewed Chapter: 7 on 4/15/2006
So, it turns out that Aragorn and Sam made it up to each other really quickly. Aragorn's idea of a dreamless sleep was certainly effective, and I'm glad that he didn't ask for Frodo or Sam's opinions upon the matter, because they would have probably refused and would have started going on again about their grief. Pippin now seems affected too because of his desire to see his cousin and Gandalf, and he does act like Frodo, though not so much now. The love between the hobbit and the man is very evident here.

Author Reply: Many thanks for your much appreciated review.I always think that out of the Hobbits, Pippin became closest to Aragorn.I wanted Aragorn to act decisively and return to Tolkien's version of events.

trishetteReviewed Chapter: 7 on 4/10/2006
Wow... the whole friendship exchange between Pippin and Aragorn... so moving!

“Why did you do it?” the Hobbit asked suddenly and burst into tears.

“Do what?” Aragorn asked in bewilderment.

“Risk your life to save me.” Pippin explained tearfully.

Legolas and Gimli, who were both sitting nearby groaned at the Hobbit’s astuteness.

Taken aback, Aragorn paused in his ministrations. He thought for a moment before resuming.

“Why Strider?” Pippin persisted.

Aragorn answered with a question.” If you could save Merry, Frodo or Sam but had to take a risk to do so, would you?” he asked.

“Yes of course.” Pippin replied without hesitating.

“And why would you?”

“Because they’re my friends!” Pippin said in a tone, which suggested he thought the question foolish.

“You have answered your own question.” Aragorn said quietly.

“But I’m just a Hobbit and you’re the King!” Pippin exclaimed bewildered.

“A King must always be the servant of his people, I would not deserve that title, if I would not gladly sacrifice my life for my friends.” Aragorn said emphatically. “And you, Pippin are my friend and I hope you always will consider me yours!”



That whole segment nearly made me cry, it is so touching! The very strong bonds of friendship are exactly why I love Lord of the Rings so much!

Author Reply: Many thanks for your much appreciated review. I love the friendships in LOTR too,something we see all too rarely in modern literature.
I am very touched you were so moved by this scene.

BodkinReviewed Chapter: 7 on 4/6/2006
Aragorn doesn't like being dependent on anyone, does he? He's spent too much time on his own, really. And prefers to ignore any weakness.

Dreamless sleep will help Frodo and Sam - give them a chance to clear their lungs and begin to heal. Pippin needs actual attention more, I think. Get that Brandybuck there! The Pippin cuddle is probably good for Aragorn too - although I doubt he'll admit it.



Author Reply: Many thanks for your much appreciated review.I agree Aragorn has spent too much time on his own.He knows how to help the Hobbits but not himself.
In my new story,Web of Treason,he does actually admit his need for a cuddle though not in so many words !

LarnerReviewed Chapter: 7 on 4/4/2006
Well, they need the forgetfullness, as well as bringing them back in line with canon, of course. But the need to enter healing sleep is perhaps for the two of them the greatest need of all. And apparently Pippin was mature enough not to later tell them what happened before they were placed in that condition.

And Pippin relaxing to sleep in Aragorn's arms is a lovely image to contemplate. I wouldn't mind doing that, you know. ;->

Author Reply: Many thanks for your much appreciated review.I do intend to bring the story back to canon and shhow why the sleep was needed.Pippin will never tell the others exactly what happened.

I enjoyed writing the scene for Pippin and Aragorn.I think he would feel very safe and protected,who would not?

harrowcatReviewed Chapter: 7 on 4/4/2006
Aw! Now that is a much better place to leave them all Linda, sleeping as peacefully as possible having released some emotional stress. Loving this second time around Linda. It is better many ways.

Just one query and it is a query not a flame especially as grammar isn't my strong point. Is 'sadly looking' one of those silly split infinitives? Kind of like 'boldy going' from one of my favourite TV shows? I have to admit that, since I began reviewing seriously on this site, my dictionary has been sitting by my lap top because my spelling is awful. So I am not exactly entitled to comment on other people's use of English.

Author Reply: Many thanks for your much appreciated review.I'm pleased you are enjoying the second time around and think it has improved.I shudder at the amount of errors I found in my earlier version!

I honestly don't know about"Sadly looking, though I think I should have put it the other way round !The rule is much more flexible than it used to be,though.I like STar Trek too !

rabidsamfanReviewed Chapter: 7 on 4/3/2006
Aw... I knew they couldn't stay mad at each other. And I love the exchange with Pippin!

Author Reply: Many thanks for your much appreciated review.I'm pleased you enjoyed the scene with Pippin, I enjoyed writing that.Aragorn and the Hobbits do care for each other deeply but they were all feeling ill and stressed.

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