As the Gentle Rain by Lindelea
Meldewen Ilce · 12 May 2004 · Chapter 26: Truth or Dare
Wow this is really getting good now - I look forward to the next chapter!
Author's reply
Great to hear from you! I feel as if I'm driving a coach with four-in-hand... all these different sets of reins to keep track of. Every time I can pull a chapter out of the spaghetti of plot it is a minor triumph! Thanks for the encouragement.
Connie · 12 May 2004 · Chapter 26: Truth or Dare
Oh Man. Aragorn sure is between a rock and a hard place. If he believes Ferdi, the men will see his a unfair,biased and quick to judge. If he finds for Ulrich, the hobbits will view him as uncaring of the injuries at the hands of men. I know Aragorn believs the hobbits, but this looks like it could go to a full trial. Not a fun thought. I somehow don't think it will come to that. Ulrich thinks Freddy is dead and will probably betray himself when he learns otherwise. You certainly are putting a lot of interesting little swists and turns into this plot. I'm lovin' it. Keep up the great work. Connie.
Author's reply
Poor Aragorn. I wonder how he's going to manage... There's going to be quite an upheaval in the little town of Dindale when word gets out that the ultra-respectable Mayor is under suspicion. Thanks for the encouragement! Hope to have another chapter tomorrow or the next day.
Hai · 11 May 2004 · Chapter 25: Reminders and Remembrances
How terrible! I pity the Mayor's wife! If she truly didn't know how sad to find out your husband was a ruffian! I hope Freddy and the others can rest in peace knowing that this ruffian is caught again, but how many more are still out there? Looking forward to more! Thank you!
Author's reply
Very sad. In a way it is sad for Ulrich as well, seeing as how he's done his best to change his ways and walk the straight and narrow. I don't know how many ruffians are still out there... they'd be growing old, after all, and quite a few who'd stayed in the North died in the battle in "Where the Merlin Cries". Ulrich is in his sixties, I think, and he was twenty or so at the time of the War of the Ring. There is at least one ruffian still out there, but you've already met him.
Bluegrass Elf · 11 May 2004 · Chapter 25: Reminders and Remembrances
Wo. The Mayor is a ruffian. Is that what Freddy was talking about?
Author's reply
Yep. You've got it. Thanks for commenting!
Pearl Took · 11 May 2004 · Chapter 25: Reminders and Remembrances
Exciting! I picked up right away what Freddy who referring to, but then I do that a lot. This is really good. I loved Pippin playing his part, clever hobbit! Nazi war criminals, a fascinating idea. Pearl Took
Author's reply
Thanks! After I wrote "The Rebel", which reminded me of the Holocaust (though I am in no way trivializing that horrible span of history, I hope no one takes offense), I began to think about the war crimes commission that met after the war, and the way ex-Nazis who have forged new lives have been recognized in a chance meeting. It seemed unlikely enough, unless hobbits travelled from the Shire, since the King imposed his ban, but if hobbits did travel from the Shire, and some of them had been in the Lockholes... well, there's a lot of possibility there. Thanks for reviewing!
FantasyFan · 11 May 2004 · Chapter 25: Reminders and Remembrances
I couldn't decide after the last chapter whether the ruffians were a real memory of Freddy's, or if the similarity in phrasing was just an unfortunate coincidence that brought out Freddy's PTSD. I was leaning toward the latter explanation, but I see that I was wrong again! I suppose the density of ruffians per square mile would be by default higher in the lands of Men than in the Shire, but the odds of running into two of them in such a short time period, after so long has passed, still have to be pretty low. Would the two ruffians of this story know each other, by any chance? And has the Mayor actually reformed, in which case his being found out is a little sad, or has he been creating a haven for escaped war criminals, like Argentina was for the Nazis? Maybe I can answer my own question here. He's taken the time to perfect (he thought) the perfect cover story, to recite it until it's second nature. And it seems he has met the real Ulrich, at least once: I doubt the circumstances were cordial. Maybe I don't need to feel sorry for him after all. Heledir, though, seems to be genuine - he remebers Pip from after the coronation, therefore it was unlikely he was a ruffian in the Shire; though being one of Saruman's spies in Minas Tirith cannot be ruled out. Must we now suspect everyone over 4'6" tall, as Nell does? Pippin here is brilliant. To paraphrase Gandalf's words to Saruman, he missed his path in life. He should have been the king’s jester and earned his bread, and stripes too, by mimicking a decrepit Prince of the Halflings. Pip fooled me too; I thought he really was still suffering the effects of his head injury, while actually he was reusing his strategy from Truth - fool them into confessing. (isn't it funny how natural it seems to flow, to put the words 'Pippin' and 'fool' in a sentence?) Beregond and Bergil are excellent accomplices - have they been taking lessons? I have to wrap this up, becaues I'm supposed to be in a meeting, but the last thing I wanted to say was, I'm glad Freddy must be feeling at least a little better, if he is able to give Witness to Pip about the ruffian and the lockholes. I did go re-read the end of A Small and Passing Thing for comfort!
Author's reply
Well, I certainly appreciate your reviewing above and beyond the call of duty! (I myself ought to be getting ready to start the school day, but I have about ten more minutes before the hoards shall descend upon me.) We probably will not have lots of ruffians coming out of the woodwork. Really, two is enough for my purposes in this story. You're right, it would be more likely to find them in the lands of Men, and not terribly likely for hobbits to run across their former tormentors. "Pippin" and "fool". Hmmm. Interesting combination. I think I could do something with that. Thanks again for reviewing.
Connie · 11 May 2004 · Chapter 25: Reminders and Remembrances
Very clever. I knew Pippin wasn't that bad-off. Though I must admit that my heart gave a little lurch when you revealed that it was him they were helping into the hall. How are the hobbits doing, really? I'm still worried about them. I know they're doing better, but they still have a ways to go, right? P.S. Glad you recovered from your Saturday swimming outing with the little ones. Thanks. Connie.
Author's reply
Pippin missed his calling. He should have stayed in Gondor and joined a troupe of actors in a pantomime. Bet he would have raked in the dough. Athelas works wonders. The hobbits are on the road to recovery. There may be some difficulties yet for them to get through. Thanks! It was fun, but exhausting! Appreciate your taking the time to comment.
Hai · 10 May 2004 · Chapter 24: Reflections of the Past
What?! So then is the Mayor a Ruffian or did he just remind Freddy of one? I guess the hobbits will never free of the Ruffians the way this story is going! First in Rohan now in Dindale? I hope there is more soon! Thank you!
Author's reply
You will find the answer to your question in the next chapter, just posted. Thanks for commenting!
Lyta Padfoot · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 24: Reflections of the Past
Poor Freddy, I hope he recovers. Hurts sometimes have no solution save endurence.
Author's reply
That could nearly be a hobbit proverb, couldn't it? It describes so well the characters we've tried to write about with respect and affection. Thanks for reviewing!
Pearl Took · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 24: Reflections of the Past
Oh, my! This was exciting! Poor Freddy. Yes, Saruman did not like hobbits. I'm looking forward to your story about what happens to Paladin. ;) Pearl Took
Author's reply
Oh, good. I would hate to be the cause of permanent Paladin-avoidance syndrome. Thanks for the review!
Connie · 8 May 2004 · Chapter 24: Reflections of the Past
Wow! I read your response to my review before I read this chapter and had to rush over to S of A immediately to read it. Is Freddy the only one effected, or have more people been poisoned? You're right, maybe you should have called it the story of two ruffians. Man, they just can't get away from them, can they? Sounds like you got a very good Mothers' Day present. Hope the kids go easy on you this afternoon. I'm enjoying the weekend a lot. The nicest few days we've had all Spring; sunny and highs in the 80's, even if it is a little humid. Thanks again. Connie.
Author's reply
Oops, sorry, sent you on a wild goose chase there. Nothing is wrong with the mead, but something is definitely wrong. The clues are in this chapter, but all will come clear in future. 80's is too high for me. 70's is just about perfect. And I am exhausted from taking the kids swimming. Whew. Why aren't they tired? Thanks for reviewing!
Pearl Took · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 23: To Be Meeting Once Again
This is a grand and exciting story!!! And no Paladin troubles ;) I shall keep up with this one. Your usual fine style. I'm thoroughly enjoying it! Pearl Took
Author's reply
No Paladin troubles! Although I am still hoping you to pity Paladin more than disdain him. It drove him half-crazy when he had to leave the land he loved, to become Thain, you know. That story is next on the list, after "Rain" and "StarFire" are finished. Thanks for reviewing! Am still chortling over that story of yours on Marigold's Challenge 4! Inspired writing, indeed!
Lyta Padfoot · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 23: To Be Meeting Once Again
Interesting how the conspirators all leave the Shire; Sam and Frodo go west while Merry, Pippin and Freddy go to Gondor. How big is the hobbit community in Ithilien anyway? I hope Freddy is okay, but considering what you've put the others through in this story I'm not holding my breath.
Author's reply
You know, I never realised that before. Huh. Freddy, even though he is mostly OC, fits the pattern. I love it when the Muse manages to be clever and I'm oblivious to the fact until someone points it out to me. Thanks for all the reviews! Had missed hearing your "voice" and hoped all was well. (I worry as much as Merry, you know, and it's not yet teatime.)
Lyta Padfoot · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 22: Great Expectations
A much sunnier chapter than is the norm for this story. So Goldilocks is pregnant, her reaction and that of Faramir are adorable. Laurel's advice sounds very sage.
Hai · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 23: To Be Meeting Once Again
Oh my! I hope the joy wasn't too much on Freddy's heart! Certainly he will be okay! All this time away from everyone and they arrive in time for his death!! That wouldn't be very nice. Anxiously waiting to find out what happens next!
Author's reply
No, I'm sure the joy sustained him in his troubles even though it can also be a strain. You can see what happens next as I've just posted the next chapter. Thanks for commenting!
Poppy Muddyfoot · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 23: To Be Meeting Once Again
Well, you certainly don't disappoint, do you? These chapters continue to be as interesting and entertaining as the first. I'm glad to see you encorporating so many of the minor characters (in terms of Tolkien's usage only) along with our favorite people. You manage to make them all feel like real people with real histories. I think it comes from the way you throw details in so casually. (I'm thinking of Estella's reaction to past visits to Rohan here. She knows what's coming because of what happened before.) This adds levels to the story that make it feel so very real. Thank you for the pleasure you're giving. And keep up the good work. (I'm very worried about Freddy now. You just had to keep us on edge, don't you?) Poppy Muddyfoot
Author's reply
Whew, glad to hear I don't disappoint. That would be entirely too distressing! It is fun to think up "back stories" and background to current events. Sometimes those back stories even get written... and they have back stories of their own, and so forth. I have a good example to follow, borrowing JRRT's world as I do. Hope I don't have to give it back anytime soon. Ah, well, there's a certain adrenaline to keeping the readers (and myself) on edge. And the respites are all the sweeter, and the characters grow in wisdom and grace (well, most of them do). That all is what makes the writing fun, and addictive. Thanks for reviewing!
Connie · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 23: To Be Meeting Once Again
Oh No! Why do I have a bad feeling about the mead. Hope I'm on a wrong track here. Oh, and another cliffhanger, too. I was really enjoying the lightness of this chapter, and then you go and throw a curve. You're good (casts an evil look toward Lindelea). Please don't wait till Monday to update. I'll understand if you have to though. Happy Mothers' Day. Connie.
Author's reply
Ummm, right feeling, wrong context. But things are hopefully clearer to you now that the next chapter has been posted. Hmmm, I suppose I ought to have titled this story "A Tale of Two Ruffians"... Thanks for reviewing, and Happy Mother's Day to you too. (My early MD present: I get to have the whole morning for writing! Then I get the little ones all afternoon while dh recovers...) Wandering off singing to myself I'm good. Hurrah!
FantasyFan · 7 May 2004 · Chapter 23: To Be Meeting Once Again
Oh dear, I wish I hadn't had this particular piece of foretelling. It's just that the joy of reunion and healing was too good to last. It's before tea-time here now, so can I indulge in a spot of worrying about Freddy? He's a character I've grown to like - that sharp mind and unsinkable spirit are impossible to resist. Of course, the thing that really made me love him was the way he understood and helped Frodo in his failing days. I'm hoping the king will be able to heal him again, but if not, it certainly isn't the worst way to go: surrounded by family and dear friends. As a side note, I feel sorry for the musicians here, overlooked more than once and generally unheard. Sometimes it's a thankless job to be 'background music'.
Author's reply
It was a horrid piece of foretelling, but you are so good at reading subtle plot cues and pitching me scenarios that are straight off the outline I'm writing. You might be just a bit premature here, though. If you recall the ending to "Small and Passing Thing", you'll be able to surmise Freddy's fate in this story. Of course, if it pleases you to worry, go right ahead. I aim to please. Thanks for taking the time to comment!
Hai · 5 May 2004 · Chapter 22: Great Expectations
I'm so glad that Farryn and Goldi are going to have a baby but I hope their parents get back in time for him/her to be born! I liked Laurel telling Goldi to let Faramir (Took) spoil her! I also liked those from Ithilien being welcomed to Dindale. Faramir giving the key back! Yes, I guess it wouldn't work very well if everyone kept the key! Looking forward to more!
Connie · 5 May 2004 · Chapter 22: Great Expectations
The part with the key was cute. Thanks for the update. Man, I wish my husband had been half as sweet to me as Farry is being to Goldi. Maybe that's why I'm no longer married (grinns evily, knowing there was a lot more to it). Still, I think, you can tell a lot about a male by the way he treats his wife when she is with child. And, from what you've shown us of Farry, he's going to be a great father. No, it was not at all difficult to tell the Faramirs apart. Thanks. Connie.
Hai · 4 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Not about to Fall Apart
There were a lot of little things I liked about this chapter! I like the whole thing of course but once in a while things really jump out! Freddy calling the mountains "hills" was great! I loved that Legolas was basically haivng a conversation with Gimli consisting of Gimli grunting and hmphing! Wonderful! At the end all of Freddy and Melilot announcing that the guards were ready to take the canvas down! I can't wait for all the hobbits to be reunited! Thank you!
Author's reply
Thanks for telling me what you liked! It is fun to write a scene contrasting Gimli and Legolas while underlining their friendship. How many other people can carry on such a conversation and understand one another clearly? Thanks for commenting!
FantasyFan · 4 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Not about to Fall Apart
I do love seeing Freddy again, and he's not only got a Frodo, but a Merry and a Pip as well! Even in this family they seem to be Merry-and-Pip, as if it was all one word. Perhaps there is something to the names. But I have to ask: is there a Samovar hiding somewhere? *tease* You wouldn't do that, would you? Are we to see Budgie's daughter too (I'm still rooting for Amarylis as her name)? I'm glad to see practical Meliot is wondering about eligible wives for her sons - Forget-me-not is to arrive, is she not? I'm afraid I can't quite figure out how old she is without looking things up, but she sounds young. Ooo, wouldn't it be wonderful if one of the Thain's daughters were living is Ithilien when he and Merry retired to Gondor, many years from now? I do have a small worry or two in the back of my mind, though. Freddy seems so happy and healthy, that you've got me hoping his health isn't about to give out in some spectacular way. And what on earth is Gimli fretting about? No one should be expecting trouble just because they're behind schedule, with the Rohirrim such famous hosts and all. Besides, I haven't forgotten one confused dangerous ruffian still loose on the plains, either. Ah, but it is after tea time, and I shouldn't be worrying, right? (I actually used that on my husband the other day - and it worked! See what an influence you are?) All in all a lovely chapter. The hobbits are hobbity, the elves are singing to the stars, and Gimli is polishing his axe. What more could anyone ask?
Author's reply
I think there is something about the names. I just want to write of hobbits who are closer than brothers (even if they are already brothers) and deep in mischief together, yet also courageous, and "thick and thin" types, if you know what I mean, when I think of Merry and Pippin. It's funny, but in the background material there is a chapter of Freddy trying to convince Melilot to name their fourth son for Sam... he ends up with the name "Fredevar" but his father fondly calls him "Sammy"... You are such a sharp reader, I once again have the feeling that you have sneaked a glance at the outline! A good policy. No worries after teatime. Hmmm. Sounds catchy. Wonder how it would look on a tee-shirt? Thanks for reviewing!
Connie · 4 May 2004 · Chapter 21: Not about to Fall Apart
So glad to see a new chapter of this one. Man, all those simular names; everyone is going to be confused when they all get together. I wonder, and worry a little, what Freddy's reaction is going to be when he sees what's happened to his friends. I also hope the party from Ithilian (hope I spelled that right)has been warned about that madman roaming the wilds. Hope to see another chapter soon. Connie.
Author's reply
It could almost end up another Comedy of Merrys, but that is not in the plans. At least, not yet. The party from Ithilien ought to be warned, after all, that madman seems to have a special spot in his heart for hobbits. I bet Elessar and Faramir are going to have a little chat, don't you? Thanks for reviewing!
Connie · 29 April 2004 · Chapter 20: If the Shoe Fits...
Aw, that was sweet. Nice to see everyone back on their feet, and back in their right frame of mind. The tie-in to Starfire was well done. Now looking forward to a little more excitement again as they make the rest of the trip to Minas Tirith. Thanks. Connie.
Hai · 29 April 2004 · Chapter 20: If the Shoe Fits...
I like that you have the King and Queen of Rohan so hospitable that they are always trying to convince their guests to stay longer! I'm glad that Merry and Ferdi are able to get around with their feet in boots! Looking forward to them getting to Gondor and getting to see Fatty! Thank you!