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Wedding Plans  by Lindorien 4 Review(s)
EomerofEastfoldReviewed Chapter: 1 on 3/10/2004
I honestly have no idea who any of these characters are, but since you asked, I have read it. How is it that women always know how to get me red in the face? I mean, I'm not THAT young, but sheesh, just the right combination of words and I find myself taking a deep breath.

I both do and do not understand Damrod's decision. True, if I were in his boots I, too, would be worried about leaving my betrothed behind, but she's clearly willing to accept such a fate should it come to pass. I also know that being a soldier isn't easy, because you know that you could be killed at any time, but it's that realization that makes life all the more exhilirating for a man at war.

However, it may be long before I ever understand such a medley of thoughts. One of the curses of youth, I'm afraid.

Author Reply: These are very thoughtful comments. I'm sorry if I made you blush. I didn't really mean to.

Damrod is a soldier. His father was a soldier. I think Damrod accepted the 'theory' that he could be killed at any time and, indeed, from Anborn's comment, he is NOT faint of heart. Certainly he was willing and eager to marry even though things were probably heating up in Ithilien during his years there.

I think that, for him, what made the difference was this -- after as horrific a battle as was Osgiliath, in which he lost many of his friends, including his best friend (those are all made up names, by the way, not canon characters, only Anborn is an actual character, who has a bit part, like Damrod.) ANYWAY, including his best friend, Damrod must have been shaken to his core. Then to find himself stuck in the woods, unable to return, not knowing if he left her pregnant and unmarried, understanding he could die at any time, worrying what that might mean for her.

If it were not for the reality Damrod suddenly found himself faced with, this fic would not have been written. Were he already married, the question was moot. Having already slept with her and understanding the enormous risk that suddenly entailed and what it might mean for her future. Then to consider the reality that he was unlikely to see his own child, even if he did marry her.

Damrod had a lot to think about. He was not exhilerated as a man of war. He was resigned. They were fighting a losing battle that was going downhill rapidly. Damrod retreated. He resigned himself to the REAL, not the THEORETICAL possibility that he might die, in fact would likely die.

Did Damrod make the right decision? You must read Free Fall to find out. Though it does not track this story exactly - This just being a little independent tribute to Damrod, who, in this case, represents EverySoldier. - But in Free Fall, you learn Damrod's fate. At least in my version of things.

Thanks so much reading this, Eomer.

Kitt of LindonReviewed Chapter: 1 on 3/6/2004
Damrod's decision was selfless one, and certainly a wise choice, though so sad at the time. (I sound a bit like a broken record saying a lot of these are sad and whatnot. But Gondor's situation was a sad one and Boromir's and Faramir's lives did have much sorrow.)
Probably one of the greatest beauties of Tolkien's Middle-earth is its depth. It's not just the main characters that seem to live, but it seems to have a whole world full of people who are affected and live lives. That was shown greatly in this story.


Author Reply: Thanks so much for your comments, Kitt. Damrod did make a wise decision, but I wonder what his fiancee thought of it in years to come. Perhaps that is a story I should write.

Despite the levity I often show in my fics, LOTR is a sad story. A sad, sad story.

Lindorien

MirielReviewed Chapter: 1 on 10/21/2003
Although this was a bit more than depressing *Sniff* it was beautifully written. Somehow, every time I hear of the battles of ME and the people being sent to war, it simply hits home. People still go to war today, struggling with the decisions facing them. Damrod's choice was beautifully selfless, and although she might not understand it now, she would thank him later, if she could.

*Sniff*

I think I'll check out your other story when I have time.

Wonderful characters, writing, and plot. Cheers!

Author Reply: Yes -- the thoughts and worries of a soldier pretty much transcend space and time. I am sorry to depress you. I hope she will thank him later -- but, I don't know. Damrod pretty much took the decision out of her hands, and decided for both of them. They are both in limbo for the moment. Kind of a lousy place to be. I am glad you liked it and thanks so much for your comments.

The KarenatorReviewed Chapter: 1 on 10/20/2003
Lindorien,
I want to say it was a lovely story, but that word doesn't seem to fit. It "was" beautifully written. You captured the intense emotions so well. There was so much love, fear, loss, bloody death and hopelessness. We stood along side this young man as he thought, at first, he was to have a future and then the heartbreak of realizing his future was only death at the hands of an overwhelming enemy. We rambled around his heart and mind as he let go of the one he loved because he loved her so much. He sacrificed more than his life. But please tell me....did he survive? I want to belive that he made it back to her and they lived happily ever after. War takes that away so often that I couldn't help but hope that he was one of the ones to live. He was too unselfish and loving to die. Sniff...This was at least a three hanky. It was so good......Karen

Author Reply: Thank you so much for your kind words, Karen. I worried that this one might be a bit over the top, so I am pleased that you were carried along with Damrod on his journey. If you want to know if he survived, you will have to read my fic FREE FALL archived here. It is where you will find your answers. All the best, Lindorien

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