On Solid Ground by Lindelea
shirebound · 22 February 2004 · Chapter 18: As Long as Life Shall Last
What a lovely chapter! "To refuse no joy set before us." Sigh. Will Faramir be able to tell Sam, Merry, and Pippin about his 'vision' of Frodo? I think that would bring them such joy.
Author's reply
Thank you! I do enjoy hobbit weddings. As to Faramir and the telling... that will come out in the next chapter, or the last one (just two to go!).
Lyta Padfoot · 21 February 2004 · Chapter 18: As Long as Life Shall Last
How sweet that Farry woke up at that moment, a bit of sleeping beauty in the Shire. I imagine his emotions will be rather mixed up with joy, sorrow, love confusion, and hope running together.
Author's reply
Ah, yes, we authors get inspired by other authors all the time. Sleeping beauty... in the "Pearl" story Nell kisses a frog (or someone tells about her kissing a frog, which is nearly the same thing), and it was all Ferdi's doing. So she kissed a frog, and eventually ended up with a "prince". Works for me. Thanks for reviewing!
Bob's Your Uncle · 21 February 2004 · Chapter 17: From Darkness into Light
Farry's not concious but still getting hitched? At least that's better than in France where you can marry a dead person if you can prove you planned to get married before your partner passed on and obtain presidential approval. I guess Farry's agreement to a wedding would count as an 'I do' - or were he and Goldi handfasted?
Author's reply
Hullo, Uncle Bob, glad to hear from you! I had never heard about that quaint little French custom. Odd. Has anyone actually gone ahead and done that? I don't know if they were handfasted, haven't written a handfasting for them anyhow. But going by Tolkien's description of "strict monogamy" I figure that once two hobbits agree to wed, they're already wedded in their hearts, unless it's an arranged marriage (yes, as a matter of fact, those happen too in these stories), in which case the two are determined to make it work (got that idea from the mother and father in "Fiddler on the Roof" as a matter of fact). Divorce and separation are unthought-of in their world. Gee, did that last paragraph make sense? It's time to sign off and seek the pillow. Thanks for reviewing.
Hai · 21 February 2004 · Chapter 17: From Darkness into Light
Oh, dear unburied but not alright yet! I'm so glad that Ferdi can see again!! Maybe he was blind in the first place so that he wouldn't be incapacitated in this darkness! I hope they can get Faramir back! At least Frodo has already sent his spirit back I hope it can find it's way back to the body! Looking forward to more, thank you!
Author's reply
You hit the nail on the head, Hai, this story was in the planning since before "Merlin" was written, although the blind hobbit was not originally planned to be Ferdibrand, but someone else. Thanks for reviewing!
Lyta Padfoot · 21 February 2004 · Chapter 17: From Darkness into Light
Ferdi can see again! You did a good job depicting the peculiar mix of chaos, hope and despair that seems to come upon those who wait for word of their loved ones in perilous situations. While Ferdi took the prize for romantic comments, Goldi's was very sweet.
Author's reply
Thank you. Ferdi is so very romantic about his Nell. Sometimes he makes *me* blush; it seems as if such moments when he's wearing his heart on his sleeve ought to be more private and not laid out in a story.
Connie · 21 February 2004 · Chapter 17: From Darkness into Light
You've done it again. I have tears in my eyes. I'm so happy for Ferdi. How did he get his sight back? Was it one of those tramatic things? Poor Goldi and Farry. I'm glad she's being so detirmined. If Merry does marry them, she's going to have a whole lot of explaining to do to her new husband when he wakes up. I know he's going to wake up. He's too important to lose. Keep it coming. I'm so hooked, I can't stop checking for updates. Connie.
Author's reply
I'm not sure exactly how he got his sight back, nor are the healers, but it happened. If you research "shell shock" and WWI you'll find instances of traumatic blindness that sometimes resolves and sometimes doesn't (as comes out in Pippin's conversation with Elessar near the end of "Where the Merlin Sings"). She won't have any explaining to do... the wedding's been planned for months and Farry was just saying the other day how he wished they'd get it over with sooner than later... Two more chapters on the outline (three, if you count the one I posted after this one, the wedding chapter which you've already read and reviewed, I think). Thanks for the encouragement!
shirebound · 21 February 2004 · Chapter 16: Shining Through
Rescue! Omigosh, now I'm even more anxious for the next part of the story!
Author's reply
At last! (Thanks!)
Lyta Padfoot · 21 February 2004 · Chapter 16: Shining Through
So they are found... but Ferdi is slipping away. Whatever happened to his head pains? It seems they haven't bothered him for several chapters. Was it the impending earth shake that caused it, Ferdi sensing it somehow. The scene between Nell and Goldi was heartbreaking.
Author's reply
Ferdi is following the course of the case study I drew from, of a shell-shocked soldier from the Great War who suffered blindness for about a dozen years after the war and then suddenly, inexplicably, regained his eyesight. The head pains and flashes of light were precursors to his recovery, which I can reveal now without it being a spoiler... His years of blindness did sharpen his other senses, and so he felt the pre-earthquake tremors more acutely than most others. Thanks for noting the scene between Nell and Goldi. Like Nell, I wished Goldi could take some comfort while knowing it wasn't really possible under the circumstances as they knew them. Thanks for reading and taking the time to share your thoughts! I do appreciate it.
Connie · 21 February 2004 · Chapter 16: Shining Through
YES!(raises a fist in the air) They found them. The scene between Nell and Goldi was really sweet. I'm as bad as the Tooks about jumping to conclusions. I need to pay closer attention to what I'm reading. I should have realized that they were making assumptions based on Pippin and Legolas's visions. Not always the most reliable source of information. The more of your stories I read, the more I would love to ask you about your portrayal of many of your characters, Pippin especially. I see so many traits and characteristics that I know I've imagined over the years. It's nice to see someone who views him in a way simular to my own. Thanks for the uplifting moment. I can now go to sleep knowing that things may be looking up for our beloved hobbits. Connie.
Author's reply
I've been one to jump to conclusions way too often in my life, so welcome to the club! Your thoughts about the portrayal of the characters are interesting to contemplate. I wonder how much of what we imagine is drawn directly from what JRRT wrote, and how much comes from our interactions with the people and places and happenings around us? (I remember reading during my early acquaintance with fanfic a very upsetting story where the author portrayed Ferdibrand as an absolute villain! I found it upsetting, at least. But then, I do love hobbits and choose to portray them as basically good and decent folk with, perhaps, a few foibles to keep them from presenting as "too good to be true".) So either we might have had some similar life experiences, or JRRT's characterizations are *way* deeper than people give him credit for, perhaps... Thanks for providing this food for thought.
Lyta Padfoot · 20 February 2004 · Chapter 15: All Through the Night
So many wonderful aspects to this chapter. Ferdi's comment on the dark, Dwarf-breathing, Estella and Diamond, and the reminder that the day was supposed to see a wedding. Diamond is a tough cookie - so many of her children missing but she can't dwell on what is out of her control and is holding herself together so that other's can lean on her. If Estella is Merry's sword, Diamond is Pippin's structural support.
Author's reply
This was such a difficult chapter to write. I had to keep reminding myself of the conclusion I was writing to reach... Nice word-pictures: Estella as Merry's sword, Diamond as Pippin's prop and stay. Thanks!
Connie · 20 February 2004 · Chapter 15: All Through the Night
THEY'VE GOT THE WRONG BODY! They have to. If they had found the real Farry, they've found Ferdi and the other boys. What a Valar-forsaken mess. How much tighter can you wind this spring. I'm on pins and needles. Connie.
Author's reply
Steady on. They haven't found Farry's body, or anyone mistaken for Farry. Diamond says that they haven't found his body yet... they're just going on Pippin's word that he's gone, and Legolas' confirmation. Of course, in truth, Farry did "die", but he was sent back... Author Reply: p.s. thanks for reviewing! Sorry if I gave you the wrong impression. The next chapter is half-written and might get posted late tonight or on the morrow (I do a lot of writing when the young'uns are asleep).
Meldewen Ilce · 20 February 2004 · Chapter 15: All Through the Night
Oh no - Pippin thinks Faramir is dead - oh please don't let him give up on wanting to live! Will Frodo have to visit him as well before everything is over with? Oh please do hurry and update this story again soon!
Author's reply
Thanks for reviewing! Plan to do some working on the next chapter on the weekend. If I get enough time I might work on *two* chapters. Got a wedding to plan...
Hai · 19 February 2004 · Chapter 14: Perchance to Dream
That one gave me chills! When Faramir recognized Frodo and he spoke about it not being their time yet. You did that wonderfully, that could not have been pulled off by everyone and you did a great job with it! Looking forward to more, hope to read it soon! Thank you!
Author's reply
Thank you!
Meldewen Ilce · 19 February 2004 · Chapter 14: Perchance to Dream
Okay - I kind of had to read this twice to understand that Faramir just had a near death experience but I think it is so neat that Frodo was the one sent to tell him it's not your time yet. I do hope that Faramir remembers seeing him and that he will tell everyone else he saw Frodo as I am sure everyone who loved Frodo would like to hear that he has found healing in the West... Anyway, great story - Please continue it soon!
Author's reply
Thank you! I love to catch glimpses of Frodo in the West, as you can probably tell...
FantasyFan · 19 February 2004 · Chapter 14: Perchance to Dream
OK, I wrote you last night that I wasn't confused by the timing of things. Then, I started to read this chapter and instantly got confused. I usually just click on the bottom chapter, and I sometimes don't notice the name, much less the number. If it's been a while since I read the story, I click on the second-from-last to refresh before reading the new material. So when I started reading this, I wondered if I was accidently re-reading the previous chapter, and totally misremembering who was where and what was happening. So I clicked back to the chapter list, read the chapter title, and finally the disorientation started to clear. I did go re-read the end of the previous chapter again just to be sure, then then new material. It was almost instantly clear that Farry was still trapped, injured and moving toward death. I just had to make it to the tenth paragraph without second-guessing myself. As the chapter went on, it brilliantly tied all the timelines together, so I think you really don't have to have any fear about the way it was originally written. Things I especially loved about Farry's out-of-body experience were: that he wasn't hungry any more (a clear clue that something abnormal was going on), that he was vaguely interested in his new ability to walk through walls, that he helped keep Pippin from falling, and that Legolas sensed his presence. Then, a special bonus: Frodo! I do love the little glimpses of Frodo, healed, joyful, playful almost. Full of a unique kind of wisdom, but still hobbity. This line is wonderful, ‘Ah,’ Frodo said. ‘That’s a bit hard to explain. They do things differently here, you know.’ No worrying needs to be done about how and where. And it was wonderful to hear the traditional wedding toast at the end. You can hear how much he still loves them all, even though I am sure, in that place, missing them can't be too painful. Except maybe, Sam. That's in there too. It was so good to see him, I feel like you've given me a special, unexpected present, and I've got tears in my eyes right now. I wonder if Farry will remember this experience when everything is done. Will he sit with his Uncle Merry and talk about it? I hope that he does remember it and can tell everyone who loves Frodo, and I hope for Pippin's sake there is some reassurance soon.
Author's reply
As always, your feedback has helped me to see the story more clearly. Thanks so much for so generously sharing your thoughts. (((hugs)))
Connie · 19 February 2004 · Chapter 14: Perchance to Dream
Wow! That is probably one of the coolest near-death experiences I have ever read. You had me a little worried there for a minute, though. I know that he had to stay alive, but there was that little tiny seed of doubt. Now I'm starting to worry about Meri. He doesn't have the same protection as Farry does. Since he's an OC, you can do whatever you want with him. I know you won't let anything bad happen to him. Thanks for the update. Keep them coming. Connie.
Author's reply
You're right, I have a terrible time contemplating character death. Thus, young Meri is safe, as you suspected he would be. You're welcome, and thank you! in return.
shirebound · 19 February 2004 · Chapter 14: Perchance to Dream
Oh, how lovely. "‘In any event,’ Frodo said, ‘You wandered too soon." I love this chapter! ‘Laugh long, live long, love forever!’ Indeed yes.
Author's reply
Thanks! I find hobbits such wonderful folk to hang out with...
Lyta Padfoot · 19 February 2004 · Chapter 14: Perchance to Dream
How sweet that Farry got to meet Frodo! I was confused a bit at the beginning until I realized Farry was having an out of body experience.
Author's reply
I'm glad that things became clear as you kept reading. It's a frequent worry of mine, that readers will find my storytelling too confusing. Whew. Thanks!
Grey Wonderer · 19 February 2004 · Chapter 14: Perchance to Dream
Beautiful! So good to see Frodo again even if it does mean that Faramir's had quite a close call. I really need the next chapter soon on this as I can't wait to hear Faramir explain how he's seen Frodo.....or will he remember? LOL
Author's reply
Thank you! It is awfully tempting to write about Farry recounting his dream to the other Travellers and reassuring them that Frodo is alive and well and thinking of them. Thus, I think you'll get your wish.
Grey Wonderer · 19 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Deep in the Smials
I thought they had it made! Boy was I wrong! Hope they get Faramir out and then find their way out. I am still enjoying this one.
Hai · 18 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Deep in the Smials
Let's see so the Thain's wife and daughters are okay, the whole picnic party made it back and the Gamgee crew are at the Smials. I love the way the hobbits all pull together when there's trouble! All the way from Hobbiton and some coming from Buckland! I'm glad that Ferdi found the boys! Atleast they are all together, even though some are now buried in more rubble! Can't wait to read more and find out what happens next!
Connie · 18 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Deep in the Smials
Oh, just when it looked like the boys might get out in one piece... Poor Farry may have inherited his father's bad luck. The worst things always seem to happen to Pippin, and now his son is keeping up the family tradition. Ferdi is a good one to have around in a situation like this. The one sense that everybody else is missing most he doesn't even need. If I were in that situation, I can't think of anyone I'd rather be stuck with than a blind person in familiar surroundings, even if things are tumbled about. I find myself wanting to start singing "There's got to be a morning after". I grew up on disaster movies, too. Connie.
Author's reply
The funny thing is that the minute you mentioned the song I could hear, who was it? Maureen McGovern? singing it in my head... Yes, this story has been in the planning ever since "Where the Merlin Cries". Ferdi was actually supposed to die of his injuries in that story, and another hobbit blinded, who would end up leading other survivors out of the pitch-dark aftermath of the earthquake in this story, but I was so depressed at the thought of Ferdi dying that Dana helped me talk myself into saving him instead... As to Ferdi following in Pippin's footsteps... it is a running joke in my "canon" that the luck of the Tooks is legendary in the Shire, for what reason, I don't know... but they're so bold (for hobbits), being Fallohides and all, that it's a wonder the Old Took made it to 130. They really must have *some* kind of luck! In that vein, in one of my stories, I have Pip recount an old Shire proverb: "If hobbits were trees and a wind blew down the forest, the last tree to be standing would be a Took", and Bergil answers, "Yes, but you would not be that tree..."
una · 18 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Deep in the Smials
hey,great story, but at this point i think it would be helpful if you posted a list or something of Peregrin's family. He's got so many sets of twins thats its getting confusing. thanks! ~Una
Author's reply
Good point! I have been working on a "Cast of Characters" because this story is so *huge* but hadn't got it into the computer yet, it's just down on paper. Will be posting it as an appendix soon. Thanks for reviewing!
FantasyFan · 18 February 2004 · Chapter 13: Deep in the Smials
I'm relieved that Farry and the other boys have been found at last. It's good that Ferdi is with them - he's much less likely to lose his head in the dark, and even though Farry is old enough to marry, he hasn't the breadth of experience to deal with a situation like this, especially with all his brothers to worry about. I'm sad for Telebold. We've just met him, in the other story, and now he's gone. I wonder, is the aftershock in this chapter the same one that the others have already experienced, that nearly got Ruby, or is it yet another? It seems that they were close to finding a way out, following Ferdi's nose, when the rumbles hit. So close, yet not out of danger. I hope that Farry is not badly injured in the fall, and that they can reach him soon. By the way, how long do you estimate that this story will be, from your outline?
Author's reply
Such a treat to come home to one of your thoughtfully-written reviews! Telebold appears in one of the early-Thain stories as well, I think, either "Striking Sparks" or "FireStorm" if I'm remembering correctly. He's Mardi's son, Rosa's brother, Tolly's nephew (and Hilly's, though Hilly hasn't appeared in this story by name as of yet). Does that place him for you? This aftershock is the same one that happened when Pippin was still in his study (the healer, Siggy, threw himself on top of the Thain), and that closed up the pit which they'd just pulled Forget-me-not out of. My editor and I are in the midst of discussing whether she ought to re-order the bits of story to put them in chronological order, or if we should maintain the level of tension achieved by not addressing Faramir until now... She likes the dramatic tension but we both worry that it might be too confusing for the reader. What do you think? The story appears to run about 20 chapters, from the outline. I couldn't tell before, but now that I see how many chapters have resulted from the first part of the timeline I can make a rough estimate. Not much left to go, really... though it might surprise me and end up "long" in the writing. Thanks for reviewing!
FantasyFan · 18 February 2004 · Chapter 12: "They Say There's Still Hope"
Now, is the cook really named Tater, or is that a nickname of honor? Just wondering, I think it's funny in a cute way. Not too much else funny here, though. Ruby's had a very narrow escape, and there may be more aftershocks undoing progress and endangering rescuers. I sure hope some of the Tooks marching behind Sam's family stop and help the poor soul in Tookbank find the baby. That really tugs at the heartstrings. I'm glad to see Goldi hasn't given up hope, and that Ferdi's clever mind is working. It sounds like Pip is in real trouble. Is he still losing blood? He's asking for Merry - they hold tight to each other at the worst times, don't they? There's some small comfort that things like this will never change. Where is Farry? It certainly is an effective technique of building the tension by saying nothing! (I can't wait for the next chapter. You are so prolific as a writer, that I've lost all sense of patience. Bad fanfiction-pusher, feeding my addiction.)
Author's reply
I bet some of the Tooks will stop... Pip is not doing too well, but much of it is because of emotional stress added on to the physical weakness. So sorry about the addiction thing, shall I stop and give you a rest? (As if I could... I think I am addicted to writing)