Elena Tiriel
· 28 January 2005
· Chapter 21: Thorn: Clarifications
So it was Aranarth rescuing Bucca? Didn't expect that! What an amazing way to fill in some sadly neglected part of Shire history... Great chapter!
In the beginning, I appreciated the Thorn chapters more than the Thain chapters, but Pippin's growing maturity and his relationship with the shepherd and his wife are really growing on me, so now I look forward to both eagerly.
Great story, Lindelea!
- Barbara
Author's reply
Thanks! Glad you're reading. If you happen to notice any canon slips, let me know.
Bodkin
· 6 December 2004
· Chapter 20: Thain: Change in the Wind
Ahh. Government intervention. Can't have a shepherd becoming Thain's heir. Although Pippin seems the happiest he's been in a while, that sort of thing really doesn't matter when it comes to politics, does it!
Grey Wonderer
· 5 December 2004
· Chapter 20: Thain: Change in the Wind
Oh my word. I did not see this coming. I didn't think the Thain would show up and stop the proceedings. I knew that Pippin would not be going with the Brockbanks but this was very interesting indeed. I felt sorry for Merry because he didn't know what was coming and sorry for Pippin because he had made his peace with it all and was happy only to have it taken away. I also hated that the Thain's visit made Pippin unable to greet Pearl like he had wanted to. Now, the rest of this party should be interesting. It is no wonder that Pippin went through some wild times after this.
Connie B.
· 5 December 2004
· Chapter 20: Thain: Change in the Wind
A chapter worth waiting for. This was very good. I'm actually kind of sad that Pippin won't be going back with the shepherd and his wife. I know the really did care for him. Paladin is not going to be happy about this. I don't think he himself wants squat to do with the Thainship, and he certainly doesn't want to deal with actually training his son to follow him. He has already empled that by sending him to another to train. I find Paladin very hard to like. Yes, I know life has not always dealt kindly with him, but he's just not the likable type.
At least Merry isn't going to be deprived of his favorite cousin for the next seven years.
Now I'm wondering what's going to happen. Hope you can update soon.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Larner
· 5 December 2004
· Chapter 20: Thain: Change in the Wind
Oooh, a proper cliffhanger.
Excellently written as usual. Am waiting for this to continue.
Beruthiel
· 5 December 2004
· Chapter 20: Thain: Change in the Wind
Wow. Wasn't expecting that! What a horrible way to find out about the succession.
I think this is the best chapter so far. What a cliffhanger! Poor Pippin. Poor Brockbanks. Poor everyone.
What happens next? How do they all deal with this bit of news? Will the Bolgers turn up wanting Pippin to marry Estella? What will happen between Pip and Paladin? Will we be seeing Paladin changing much before he actually becomes Thain?
Ahem. Must stop babbling in reviews. But can't help it, this story is excellent, must have more, more, more, precious!!
Drooling in anticipation of next Pippin update.
Bodkin
· 15 November 2004
· Chapter 19: Thorn: Beginning of the End
Poor Bucca - there he was, on the way home, with the thanks of the royal party - and now he finds himself off to war! Bit of bad luck, that. But at least he was recognised and thus didn't get his throat cut!
And I suppose it does put him in the right place to be honoured.
Although hanging on the back of a large man climbing down a high cliff might make one doubt the value of the experience - not to mention then being practically drowned, frozen to death and forced to witness the slaughter of those remaining in the camp.
Am I mistaken in spotting a similarity between the dreadful experiences of the first Thain and those to be undergone by the heir of the next Thain? (Though a heavy man isn't quite a troll.)
Author's reply
There might be some intentional similarities there, for the sake of irony or literary interest or something. I'm told I'm in danger of "overusing the busted ribcage plot device". So we probably won't be pulverising any more ribs in this story, from this point out.
There is more battle and blood to go through before we get to the honour part. I wonder which (battle or honour) is more discomfiting to a hobbit?
Thanks!
Connie B.
· 15 November 2004
· Chapter 19: Thorn: Beginning of the End
You are certainly fleshing out this part of Shire history quite nicely. Now I wnat to know who helped Bucca.
Thanks for another great chapter.
Connie B.------------------------------------------------------
Author's reply
You're welcome, and now you know who helped Bucca! (Couldn't answer the review sooner without giving away the plot point.)
Thanks!
Larner
· 14 November 2004
· Chapter 18: Thain: Near Escape
Okay, now I'm following this one, and can't wait to read more of it.
Author's reply
Words to warm the cockles of any author's heart (whatever those may be!).
Thanks! More to come in the next day or two, I hope.
Larner
· 14 November 2004
· Chapter 15: Thorn: Dark Waters
Your writing is clear and, from what I can tell, accurate. Have you studied Sutcliff's works?
Author's reply
Thank you. I strive for accuracy, though sometimes I miss something. Haven't read all of HOME yet, *g*.
Sutcliff? Not sure whom you mean. The name sounds familiar, like something I've seen on a reading list perhaps.
jodancingtree
· 13 November 2004
· Chapter 18: Thain: Near Escape
Oh, Lindelea, I like this tremendously! Yes, indeed, I think Frodo is very true to character, and the whole chapter is wonderful - now I'll have to go back to the beginning and read it properly...
jo
Author's reply
O thank you, Jo. Appreciate the check--you write Frodo so wonderfully, you know!
I will be curious to hear your thoughts on the story. It's been a challenge to write two seemingly-unrelated stories into one, and I hope the connexion between them comes clear as the story progresses.
Thanks for stopping by!
Grey Wonderer
· 13 November 2004
· Chapter 18: Thain: Near Escape
I can see Frodo wanting to rescue Pippin from exile. I can also see poor Pippin's point in all of this. He is at least gaining soe respect from the shepherd even if he is losing his last few years of fun. Better than life with Paladin. Seems Frodo and Pippin did have much in common. Looking forward to more. Hope the cold is better or even, gone?
Author's reply
The cold is getting better, thanks. Not gone yet, and I have to be careful that it doesn't disappear and come back as bronchitis. (Don't know why that happens.) Like you, I'm glad Frodo wants to rescue Pippin, but realises that his young cousin might be better off with the shepherd and decides to leave things alone.
Thanks!
Bodkin
· 13 November 2004
· Chapter 18: Thain: Near Escape
You know, I find Pippin immensely more likeable in this chapter. He seems to have a much better understanding of himself and his relationship with his father. The old shepherd has been very good and nurturing for him.
However, there must be twists to come, because I can't see Paladin leaving his only son and heir to spend seven years with sheep.
Author's reply
Yes, the old shepherd has been an excellent influence. He's planted quite a few seeds that will come to fruition in later years. Probably if Pippin had stayed with him the seven years, the whole history I've written for him would be completely different.
You're right about twists to come, though I think Paladin *would* leave his son with the shepherd, so long as he was getting good reports. He's a wise manager, even if he cannot control his temper "up close and personal".
Gee I hope that made sense. It's late and I ought to hit the pillow.
Thanks for commenting!
Lyta Padfoot
· 12 November 2004
· Chapter 18: Thain: Near Escape
Wonderful chapter. I've been plagued by nasty computer problems and unable to review your stories lately. Pippin is starting to appreciate things, to judge by his comment on business, but he has yet to obtain the maturity to apply that understanding where it would help. Frodo's visit was splendid, I imagine Pippin probably is very lonely. I'm curious to see how Pippin's time with the shepherd ends.
Author's reply
Sorry to hear about your nasty computer problems. BTDT. It was so nice to hear from you again!
Your curiosity ought to be satisfied in the next chapter or so.
Thanks for stopping in and leaving a comment!
Connie B.
· 12 November 2004
· Chapter 18: Thain: Near Escape
This was an interesting chapter. It had so many layors and levels. The thought of Pippin only avoiding a possible fatal prank because he was with the shepherd was unsettling. Frodo's sense of not belonging was sad. He must have had the same kind of behavior as an adopted child who's been shipped from foster family to foster family. It must have taken him a long time to believe that someone could love him unconditionally.
I feel for Pippin, too. He must really feel that he is better off allowing himself to be sold into seven years of servitude than facing life with his father. If Paladin hadn't already sealed his fate with his son, it's sealed now. True, Pippin is learning responsibility, but he's not learning the love of his own family. If things remained as they are, and Paladin didn't find himself becoming Thain, I seriously doubt he'd have ever seen much of his son again. I think Pippin would have done anything possible to avoid contact with his father.
What is going to happen when the Thainship passes to Paladin? If Pippin accepts the seven years of apprenticeship he'll still have at least two years to go, and what will the Tooks say about a Thain that has a son as an apprentice shepherd?
Something about Pippin's resolve makes me sad. It seems so far removed from the carefree young hobbit that he's been.
Thanks for such a thought-pervoking chapter.
Connie B.
Author's reply
You're most welcome. I appreciate your thoughtful comments. (Sure glad the computer didn't swallow them this time!)
Very insightful, comparing Frodo to the adopted child who'd bounced from one family to another, for I'm sure that was in the back of my mind when I was writing the chapter.
And I think you're spot on about Pippin. He loves his father, and he desperately wishes to please his father (as children do) but he doesn't see much chance of it happening, because (for some reason) when they're thrown together he gets this contrary urge to throw off the restraints. It's hard to live with a controlling type. Right now he's in the best situation: he knows he's honouring his father, even pleasing him, by working well for the old shepherd. Sad that it's something he *can't* do at home.
Paladin isn't due to be Thain for another five years or so, but things are going to be changing soon for Pippin even before that time.
Thanks!
FantasyFan
· 12 November 2004
· Chapter 18: Thain: Near Escape
You know how much I love it when Frodo appears in your stories. When he showed up, I wanted to run down the hill and hug him along with Pippin. This chapter makes me love him all the more. How self-possessed he is, and what a struggle he had to go through to get to that point. If we are the summation of all our life experience, Frodo's losses and the choices that he made as a result of them certainly had to contribute to making him the 'best hobbit in the Shire'. It's quite amazing to see this young Pippin on the edge of the same kind of self-awareness. What's also funny is that both Frodo and Pippin will be misunderstood by the hobbits around them. Frodo is 'cracked' and Pippin is 'a wastrel': perhaps because they are sure of themselves, and thus free to follow their own hearts, they are concerned less than the average hobbit about how they appear to others? Of course, Frodo did eventually crack, and Pippin was a troublemaker and relatively thoughtless for many years, so there is more to the development of leadership and greatness than simple self-awareness. Much more.
I wonder how long this story is going to be? You hint about Paladin (and Bucca) becoming Thain; and that seems far off from here, so are we in for a long read?
FF
Author's reply
Very thought-provoking; called names because they are sure of themselves, and not necessarily compelled to toe the line society has drawn for them.
There is much more: add to that (coming) resentment and rebellion on Pippin's part (and not for something Paladin does, interestingly enough) and you have much more character development as well.
This is going to be one of the longer ones, perhaps as long as "Rope" the way the chapters are breaking off of the outline. Of course, if I split it into two stories they would each be about the length of "Jewels", perhaps. It is partly because I write short chapters: easier editing, and easier on my attention span, and just all-around easier to "balance". Hope you don't mind extreme length.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Bodkin
· 9 November 2004
· Chapter 17: Thorn: As Cold as Death
OK, I've remembered the riddle. (I hate riddles. Wouldn't have done very well if confronted by Gollum - although I could have managed the 'what have I got in my pocket' level of question.)
Would I have preferred to live in one of the quiet centuries between attacks by Dark Lord and Witch Kings? Yes, please. This type of activity is best related over hot chocolate and marshmallows.
Poor Thulion. Even poorer Berethor, who is far too young for this level of responsibility.
I don't like to think who is trampling poor Bucca. But at least I know he became Thain in 1979, so any torment will be survived.
Author's reply
Quiet centuries. What a concept. However, hot chocolate and marshmallows are a comfort.
LOL to your philosophical comment. Poor Bucca indeed! If I can finish the chapter satisfactorily it'll be posted in the next day or so.
Thanks!
Connie B.
· 9 November 2004
· Chapter 17: Thorn: As Cold as Death
Oh, what a sad chapter. At least we know whom of the King's heirs survived.
Now Bucca's got problems of his own. Stuck under some wandering man is not a good thing. I just hope it's not one of Angmar's people. Personally, I don't think it is, but I've been wrong many times before.
Thanks for a quick update. Looking forward to what happens to Pippin next.
Connie B.
Author's reply
We don't quite know whom of the King's heirs survived. His grandson, certainly, but since he's being called "my liege" the fates of the King's sons (other than Berenarth) are still up in the air.
Don't sell yourself short; you have good instincts. The man stumbling over Bucca will be revealed in the next chapter to be posted.
Grey Wonderer
· 7 November 2004
· Chapter 16: Thain: To Higher Ground
I love the shepherd! he rewarded Pippin efforts and let him know that everyone can make a mistake. He would have made a great father for Pippin or for someone. Quite a good teacher and also good with reassurance. Suppose he might take Paladin out for a few lessons? LOL I also like the fact that Pippin's rescue isn't explained. Could have been the dogs or anything. Nicely done!
Author's reply
Oops, missed replying to this!
I do think the shepherd would have made a great father. At least he can put his gift for encouraging others to good use here. Paladin's actually had a few lessons in the past or he'd never have trusted his only son with the hobbit in the first place. (There's a backstory, might never be published as it is only a story summary, but the old shepherd was the one who taught Paladin originally to control his temper... he was not *quite* so old then, *g*.)
You're right, it could have been the dogs, though my shepherd friend was doubtful that they'd be able to move the sheep once she'd given up. That's why we settled on the mysterious, hoping perhaps it was a passing Elf (though we'll never know for sure).
Thanks!
FantasyFan
· 7 November 2004
· Chapter 16: Thain: To Higher Ground
I see what you meant about this chapter. There are so many times I think you have written yourself into a corner that has absolutely no way out, and then you find one (it is a failing of my imagination, I think); however finally you have met your match. It's not entirely satisfactory, but it's not entirely unsatisfactory either. Pippin does have more to do with his life, and this was only one lesson in not overestimating or underestimating himself. The hand of higher powers are clearly visible in Tolkien's writing to those who look, and I have always felt that 'the fool' is one character where their hand can more clearly be seen. How many times on the quest does Pippin do something entirely foolishly or on an unthinking whim that turns out to have been vital when viewed with hindsight? More times than he would like to think about, I am sure. There is a concept in spirituality of the abandonment of will after all conscious effort has been made, that opens the door to grace. Frodo was the recipient of this, at Mt. Doom, I think, and perhaps Pippin is here.
Author's reply
Very thought-provoking comments!
I had a different solution worked out but my shepherd friend told me a sheep would not behave the way I had written, so we had to brainstorm a bit. It could be deus-ex-machina or it could be a wandering Elf just passing by, who didn't stay around after making sure the lad was safe and breathing, though this will not be expanded upon in the story--it is truly a mystery to Pippin, one that I don't know if he'll ever know the solution. I know Elves don't usually interfere in the goings-on of mortals, but I cannot imagine an Elf just walking away and letting the hobbit drown, either.
Very good food for thought in your comments, thanks!
Author Reply: p.s. I see I am rambling in my reply, so I had better go back to bed and nurse this (yet another) dratted cold. We seem to be passing it around the family, and this is my second round...
Gotta go buy all new toothbrushes tomorrow, I think.
Author Reply: A little clearer-headed after long nap (not much clearer, but a little). Yes, as I told you I was not terribly satisfied, but it's a solution and I can get on with the story! Whew.
Connie B.
· 7 November 2004
· Chapter 16: Thain: To Higher Ground
So, was it divine intervention, or did Pippin just block out the events in his mind. I could see it being some act of a Higher Power, considering what he is meant to accomplish in the future.
I'm glad the shepherd has found him to be responsible and a good worker. Now that he's adapted to his situation, I'm starting to think this was the best thing after all. Paladin would never be able see the value in his son that someone else could, and he'd never have been able to tap the inner abilities of said son either. Only someone with one preconceived notions could do that.
However, having said that, I just can't see Pippin serving a full apprenticeship as a shepherd. But then that's probably part of the crux of the story. I'll stop speculating and leave it in your capable hands. The author truly does know best.
Oh, you may want to check your first mention of the bread loaves. I think you accidently typed "loves". Just thought I'd let you know, 'cause it jumped out at me in a way.(grin and giggle)
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
Divine intervention, or perhaps a wandering Elf... you never know, in Middle-earth.
Well, Pippin was spoilt, and Paladin was fighting an uphill battle. (Have you heard of the dynamic, where you have a troublesome child, and whenever one parent tries to discipline, the other "protects" and the situation worsens as an intelligent child plays one parent off against the other...? But enough psychology.) I think he was wise to turn his son over to such a mentor.
The next "Pippin" chapter is roughed-out, at least, and so is the intervening "Bucca" chapter.
Thanks for the catch, I missed it on my read-through and my spellcheck didn't think it was a problem.
Appreciate the feedback!
Bodkin
· 7 November 2004
· Chapter 16: Thain: To Higher Ground
The intervention of 'Powers beyond the ken of Hobbit'!!
That old shepherd is a good chap - just the kind of person who is needed to bring spoiled brats round to become Useful Members of Society.
And Pippin is actually having all his good shepherding and kind/caring instincts honed - which is good for him. (Plus his honest instincts. That's a good thing too.)
Author's reply
Wow, thanks for the quick response! Very heartening when I'm down with a miserable cold. It's nice to toddle off to bed with a review to smile on.
Yes, could be "Powers" or it might even have been a wandering Elf, who of course would not be likely to stick around after the young Hobbit was safe. My shepherd friend and I had to work the solution out this way when she told me I'd written Pippin into a corner, poor lad, and there was no plausible way out again!
I do love writing the old shepherd's part of Pippin's story. Even though his part is all too brief, he had a deep impact on the future Thain, and in more ways than just drinking strong black tea... I think Paladin made an excellent choice of mentors for his son, don't you?
Now so long as the Muse stays in a good mood, I'll hope to post Bucca's next chapter in a few days. "Glisters" got stalled while I was researching Merry's surgery, but I'm hopeful the rough spots will work out soon.
Thanks so much for brightening my day with comments!
Bodkin
· 4 November 2004
· Chapter 15: Thorn: Dark Waters
Those poor children. Years of tranquillity and the passing of roles from parent to child - and then to be present in the middle of catastrophe watching all being destroyed in front of you. I wonder how many of the children made it to adulthood.
Poor Bucca. I hope he finds his family waiting for him in safety.
Author's reply
Have read accounts of children's experiences when the Japanese were invading China, and Gladys Aylward and her trek with 100 children into the mountains. What a story. Have also read survivor accounts (not many, obviously) of Jews, when the Nazis invaded Poland, and then, ironically, of Germans/Austrians/Czeks when the Russians overran their territory at the end of WWII, and the slaughter of the British in the Indian uprising, and the way Europeans and Native Americans slaughtered each other by turns. Atrocities don't seem to need a nationality; they're "equal-opportunity" actions, it seems.
Bucca has a few more things to do...
Thanks for commenting.
Connie B.
· 3 November 2004
· Chapter 15: Thorn: Dark Waters
I'd say that's one blessing that was fulfilled.
Nice chapter. Nice but sad.
I'm still worried about Pippin and those sheep. Please don't leave him there too long.
Sorry I'm so slow in reviewing. Yesterday was LOOONNNGG. I left home at 4:15 AM and got back at 8:20 or so. But working the election was a great learning experience.
Can't wait for more of your writing.
Connie.
Author's reply
The next Pippin chapter got finished last night (long-hand, anyhow) and I hope I'll get some time over the weekend to type it in...
Thanks!
Grey Wonderer
· 1 November 2004
· Chapter 14: Thain: Through the High Waters
Now what will he do? I hope either help is on the way or that he and the dogs come up with a new plan of action. Maybe some of Merry's swimming lessons will come in handy? This must be a very big ewe! Can't wait for more of this. I hope that Pippin can save her without drowning himself.
Author's reply
Well, we certainly cannot drown Pippin! That would be a terrible thing to do, what with the Quest ahead of him and all! No, there's just going to have to be some other outcome, definitely...
Thanks for commenting!