harrowcat · 3 July 2010 · Chapter 40: Tit for Tat
This is great fun GF.
Author's reply
Thanks, cat! I'm glad you enjoyed it! *hugs*
GamgeeFest's Keepsakes by GamgeeFest
Reviews (456)
Dreamflower · 3 July 2010 · Chapter 40: Tit for Tat
Oh, my dear! What a perfectly wonderful birthday present! I love it, love it, love it! First of all, I love it being in Tom's POV! Second of all, I love the way Sam originally turns the table on spiteful Ted, who as he surmised, was just out to provoke the lads and perhaps stir up trouble. Third of all, I love what a perfect conspirator Sam already is. And of course, there is the revenge on Lotho! A case of "green apple quick step" was well-deserved on his part, and I can just see the minds of gossipy hobbits working away, and putting two and two together! Of course, Sam would also want to protect young Goldie's innocence in all this-- I wonder, though, how the Gaffer would have reacted when/if he ever learned of it. I'm sure he'd have been outraged at the slur to his baby girl, but I'm not sure how he'd have taken Sam's dealing with the matter in his own way! And I also like it very much that in the end, Frodo *also* dealt with Lotho in his own quiet and effective way! Because no matter how Lotho felt about it (and, really, we do know how he felt about it) Frodo *was* the Baggins family Head! Thank you so much for this lovely present! (((((((hugs)))))))
Author's reply
Oh, goodie! I'm so thrilled you enjoyed your present! Tom's POV happened rather by accident. I didn't start out with the intention of writing in his voice, but he was the first one to speak up and tell me the story. Makes sense, as Sam is far too humble to take the credit himself. :) Sam again disproves his name here in every respect. I doubt I could have been that quick at diffusing the gossip as Sam, nor as inventive in my payback to Lotho. Thank goodness Sam had the tutelage of Frodo and Bilbo growing up, and he seems to have taken notes on Took and Brandybuck mischievousness as well. :D Lotho certainly deserved a night of discomfort, and I'm sure that's a carriage ride he, and the driver, will never forget! I doubt the Gaffer ever heard anything about this, and if he did it was likely by accident. He would have been scandalized, I'm sure, but also deep, deep down secretly proud of the way Sam protected his sister. Frodo is the Baggins, and very protective of his tenants and employees. He would be quick to send that letter and Lotho would have the dissatisfaction of knowing that Frodo had sharp eyes on his comings and goings where the Gamgees were concerned from there on out. You're most welcome, dear! (((hugs)))
Antane · 2 May 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
A lot of interesting theories of what could have happened, but I deem the Ring would have overwhelmed the eagles as well and they knew it. There were things Frodo had to learn also that he couldn't have except through suffering. A fun story though and a valid question and a lot more ideas in an attempt to answer it than I thought of. Like Sam saying his scars are worth having. Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
As Sam said, the Eagles are no more immune to the Ring than Gandalf would have been. As Sam has more children and nieces and nephews, I'm sure they'll be having this discussion numerous more times. It'll be interesting to see what ideas the next batch of kids come up with, or it will all be the same. :) I'm glad you enjoyed this! Thank you for the review. :D
Grey Wonderer · 7 April 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
Thank you for the birthday wishes. I just now saw them. LOL Seems I'm late too. I really enjoyed reading this one. Every time someone mentions the Eagles taking the RING to Mordor, for some odd reason, I always see the rock band, The Eagles trudging up to Mount Doom and Don Henley always winds up losing his guitar when they throw the Ring in...but that's another story. I love the way one idea leads to another in this and how each one thinks they have it figured out until the next child speaks up. I think Frodo would have enjoyed these discussions a great deal. Maybe Sam will tell him all about them when they are together again. : ) And I think Rose has a point: (“If you call showing up late for your meeting with him just fine. Honestly, they could have brought Gandalf to the Shire instead of that horse-place,” Rose said. ) hehehe
Author's reply
Seems we're all late. At least we're late together. :D The Eagles wouldn't be able to get the Ring to Mordor. They couldn't even get out of the Hotel California! lol! Conversations are so fluid, especially with children, who are so easily distracted - this was bound to go off tangent after just a few moments. I can see Sam reenacting some of these convos with Frodo, and I bet Frodo would get a kick out of their logic, especially on this subject! ;) Leave it to Rose to get straight to the heart of the matter. Perhaps if they had agreed to take Frodo, they would have ended up at the Grey Havens! ;)
Aunt Dora · 4 April 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
What a joy. You make it easy to feel what it would have been like sitting there with the children as they asked their splendid questions.
Author's reply
Thank you! I always enjoy writing the Gamgees, Sam's children in particular. I had fun trying to figure out what they would make of this particular argument. Glad you enjoyed it as well!
Claudia · 30 March 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
Hee! This is really cute!
Author's reply
Thank you, dear! I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Andrea · 30 March 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
Like Wizards, the Great Eagles arrive exactly at the time they consider as right. So they might very well be Maiar! Frodo tried more than once to persuade others to take the Ring! He did not succeed, for it was his task to bring the Ring to Mount Doom. And it was Gollum's task to destroy it (unwillingly). Children's questions can sometimes be hard to answer. But Sam was not alone. He had help from his older children who already understood more about Frodo's quest than he might have guessed.
Author's reply
They are at least akin to Maiar, so they may have inherited the ability arrive precisely when they mean to. ;) Frodo certainly did attempt it, but upon each time, was turned down or discovered that he was the only one who could carry it. That's what everyone who makes this argument seems to forget. Elanor especially would be well-versed in the story, but all Sam's children, having grown up with its telling, would understand it much better than their cousins or others, who only hear snippets of the tale. Thanks for the review!
Anonymous · 30 March 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
Oh very well done. This has always been a question I have pondered. I am not a religious person really by nature, but I think Tolkien paralled Frodo's fate with Christs, and by his example, we were to be more appreciative of what our lot is in life. But that doesn't answer the question does it? I think the one answer about the Eagles being Maia is the best answer. I does make one wonder tho'.
Author's reply
Story external, certainly, that would be an explanation. But for those living within the world, they need to find more practical ways of explaining it! Sam is of course correct, but his children all make valid points. Thanks for the review!
cookiefleck · 29 March 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
There are so many lovely things about this story. The powerful opening lines from ROTK (aka the Red Book) and Sam's reaction after reading them. The amusing banter/debate among the children and also Sam's replies and comments. The tone you struck is very close to Tolkien's Epilogues, which made it even more enjoyable to read. And I always like subtle references to deeper topics such as when Sam deferred the question about Gandalf. Best of all, though, was Tom's growing awareness of the events of the quest. I really like stories that show an awakening of understanding among those who did not participate and didn't get the full story... of course, given my own bias, I am glad that Sam's accomplishments are known and appreciated. And in general, I like the way you portray the Tom and Sam friendship here; it's not something generally explored in fan fiction and I would love to read more stories in which the two of them interact. Thank you for the birthday wishes!
Author's reply
I enjoy the Epilogues so much, and could have read much more of that if Tolkien had felt the desire to write it. These little scenes are my attempts of expanding upon those. Sam would feel sad upon reading that passage, and especially today, but his children are there to lift his spirits, as always. As for Gandalf - he might eventually have that conversation with Elanor, and possibly Frodo-lad, but they're too young yet to understand the subtleties of why Gandalf could return and Frodo couldn't. Tom will be making more trips up to Bag End now, I think, and having many long discussions with Sam. He might not be able to wrap his head around everything, but he will make the effort now, out of his friendship to Sam. I too wish more people would explore Sam's other friendships, especially in pre-Quest fics. He would have run about with Tom, Jolly and Robin far more than he would have with Frodo, Merry and Pippin. You're welcome, dear! Glad you enjoyed the story!
Dreamflower · 29 March 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
I love it when Sam's children (and in this case, niece and nephew) debate the finer points of the Quest. (Though this is not quite as funny as color-coordinating the Nazgul and their horses...*cough*cough*grin*) The whole question, of course, about why didn't the Eagles drop the Ring in (and variants thereof) are always brought up by those who are concerned only with the physical logistics of the Ring's destruction. Elanor and Frodo-lad were able to defuse most of the argumants, but the most powerful one, of course is: “The Eagles now though, they were Maia, like Gandalf. Seeing as Gandalf didn’t dare to carry the Ring, then I’d guess the Eagles would feel the same.” This is Sam's statement, and it's more than true enough. I once read a short and very scary AU, in which exactly that happened-- the Eagle claimed the Ring, and now death reigned from the skies with all the birds in the world under his control. Scary, scary, scary. *shudder* I imagine sooner or later, Elanor or Frodo-lad will think of *that* answer, and put an end to the argument. Quick thinking about Gandalf being naked by the way, though I suppose he could also have said that all his clothes were destroyed fighting the Balrog... but Sam might not have wanted to frighten them too much with details about the Balrog... But what I like most is Tom's reaction to hearing some of this finally. He's known enough for years to realize that *something* more than just camping out and boating happened to Sam and Frodo, but to finally *hear* what that might be is quite a revelation. I really liked this a lot!
Author's reply
It's going to be hard to top color-coordinating the Nazgul and their ponies! lol! It amazes me how many people - clearly unfamiliar with the finer points of Tolkien's mythology - assume the Eagles are just there to do whatever anyone asks of them rather than being lords, and creatures of thought, in their own right. That AU sounds like something HItchcock would have directed! lol! Terrifying indeed. Elanor and Frodo might think about it, but the others wouldn't - it's far too dark a thought for a hobbit to entertain. I did actually consider having Sam use the excuse of the Balrog burning off Gandalf's robes, but more than having to explain what a Balrog is, he would have been more concerned about the children worrying about Gandalf likewise being burned. I think Tom is going to be visiting Bag End more often, and having some long discussions with his friend, cousin and brother-in-law about what exactly did happen - and why more of the lighter happier times couldn't be recorded in the Red Book as well! lol! Thank you for reading, dear!
shirebound · 29 March 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
What a debate! If those children had been at the Council of Elrond, events might have taken quite a different -- and hilarious -- turn. And I agree with Lilah. I'm sure even Eagles like to have a bit of fun now and then. Thank you for this delightful tale, my friend! I just love it. I rarely start my mornings with such a huge grin as this one. *hugs you*
Author's reply
Ok, now you have to write the children holding their own version of the Council of Elrond! I think Lilah is right too! They would have fun from time to time. Frodo just didn't think it would be while they were hauling people about. ;) Glad you enjoyed this! **hugs**
Larner · 29 March 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
I so love all the logic expended upon this! At least in the aftermath of such a prolonged discussion poor Sam didn't have a chance to fall into melancholy.... Lovely--just lovely! And the children and Tom made the day for me as well as for Sam!
Author's reply
Sam's children did their father proud - I am sure they had this discussion amongst themselves already and so were able to deflect their cousins' arguments. Sam's family likely saved him from melancholy time and again. They would know that this day especially would be difficult for him.
Celeritas · 28 March 2010 · Chapter 39: Flights of Fancy
The fact that I just had to explain to a few of my friends the million-and-a-half reasons the Eagles couldn't have flown the Ring into the Fire made this all the more relevant. (And the worst thing about this debate is that whenever anyone brings it up, they think that they're the first ones to think of it! ...Or they allude to Family Guy... *sigh*) Anyhow, this was a lovely discussion, and a lovely domestic scene, and I loved how quickly it got very, very out of control. Thanks so much for writing this; it put a smile on my face.
Author's reply
It's an argument that's been made far too often - as if the Eagles don't have minds and desires of their own somehow! It was fun giving this debate to Sam's children, niece and nephew and see what they could make of it. Thank you for reading, dear!
mews1945 · 1 January 2010 · Chapter 38: Deck the Halls with Bows and Holi
I'm only beginning to catch up with all the posts since Christmas eve, so this review is late, but I wanted to say thank you for a delightful story. I loved how you brought it full-circle, from Bilbo telling the tale to Sam and Frodo, to Sam telling it to his children.
Author's reply
There is no such thing as a late review, dear. (hugs) I'm glad you enjoyed this! Bilbo had a way with tales that Sam seems to have learned quite masterfully. I wouldn't be surprised if Frodo-lad is telling it to his children when the time comes.
cookiefleck · 29 December 2009 · Chapter 38: Deck the Halls with Bows and Holi
I particularly liked the ending. Put a big, sappy smile on my face. (Am still way behind with fic-reading/commenting but managed to get to this one!)
Author's reply
Sam with his kids is always a treat. :) Thanks for reading, dear!
Larner · 28 December 2009 · Chapter 38: Deck the Halls with Bows and Holi
Hooray! What a delightful reason for the start of the tradition! As for the falling candle--it roused a good chuckle from me. And the mad Bagginses will never truly be gone from Bag End, it seems! Heh! Thanks for the laughter!
Author's reply
It's a tradition that will become part of Gamgee/Gardner Yules for generations to come. Bilbo would be most proud. :D The falling candle was an after thought actually. I realized at the last moment that Sam never got to voice his concern over it, and thought it would be funnier if it just fell when no one was there. I'm glad you enjoyed that part! :D Thanks for reading dear!
Grey Wonderer · 27 December 2009 · Chapter 38: Deck the Halls with Bows and Holi
Bravo! A brilliant play on words and so very like something Bilbo would tell. hehehe
Author's reply
Thank you, GW! It is very much the sort of tale that Bilbo would tell a young, unsuspecting Sam. I'm sure the tale grew more elaborate with each retelling. :D
Addie71 · 27 December 2009 · Chapter 38: Deck the Halls with Bows and Holi
This was so sweet and cute, it had me ROTF in places. I wanted to scoop up young Sam and hug him at the end of Bilbo's story. But when Sam re-told the tale to his children, well, it had me almost in tears. Loved this.
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so glad you got a laugh out of this! Young Sam is very dear, so full of concern for Holi and his masters' safety over their decorations. You can be sure he and his children hang the holly with fire safety measures in check! His children will enjoy the tale every bit as much as he did. :) Thank you for reading!
Antane · 26 December 2009 · Chapter 38: Deck the Halls with Bows and Holi
I love the ending! And I love young Sam and all his reactions. :) Merry Christmas right back to you! Christ is born! Glorify Him! Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Thank you, dear! Sam is such a practical hobbit, even at that young age. It was fun noting all his reactions and observations. :)
lbilover · 26 December 2009 · Chapter 38: Deck the Halls with Bows and Holi
Oh Gamgeefest, this far and away exceeded my request! Bless you! I love this story very much, it's so playful and funny, and perfect for Yule. Dear Sam is so serious and Sam-ish, worrying about the candles and the logic of the decorations. I love Bilbo's story about Holi and the tradition, which made me smile so much. The ending was so very touching! I love that Sam is carrying it on with his own family. And meep, this made me tear up: "Sam realized then that there was nothing missing from this Yule or any other, for his memories of his masters would always be with him, and neither this smial nor he would ever forget them." Thank you so much! *hugs*
Author's reply
*hugs* You're most welcome, dear! Sam is ever practical, even at that early age. I'm sure in following years he'll become as used to the Bag End decorations as his masters are. I thought to maybe have a story involving elves, but the dwarves, with all their rhyming names, presented a more amusing possibility. The end I thought of as I was writing the first half. It was a touching but not too-maudlin way of bringing it full circle. Sam will be proud to pass down this tradition - with fire safety measures in place of course! :P I'm so glad you enjoyed your fic!
Dreamflower · 25 December 2009 · Chapter 38: Deck the Halls with Bows and Holi
*grin* What a delightful tradition! I love Sam's combination of practical common sense (about things like holes in the walls and candles on trees) and absolute trusting gullibility when it comes to what Mr. Bilbo (and Master Frodo for that matter) says! And the ending brought it full circle! (It would be funny someday if Gimli heard the tale, from one of Sam's kids! LOL!)
Author's reply
Thank you, DF! Sam may be able to see the practicality (or lack there of) with something right in front of his face, but when it comes to strange outlandish folk that lived thousands of years ago, he would be prone to believe whatever Bilbo told him. Bilbo had been Out There after all, and knew about such things. ;) I imagine Gimli would immensely enjoy the tale if he ever hears it! :D
shirebound · 25 December 2009 · Chapter 38: Deck the Halls with Bows and Holi
That is the tale that Balin told me, and if you have issues with it, you can bring them up with him if ever you should meet.” “I plan to,” Frodo said, stepping into the kitchen to help Bilbo with the baking. “If you didn’t make him up as well.” Their eyes met and both Bagginses dissolved into giggles. Your imagination is as vast and wonderful as Bilbo's. Thank you so much for this delightful Yule tale!
Author's reply
Thank you for the lovely review, dear! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Bilbo does have a knack for spinning tales. You never really know what he'll come up with next! :)
grumpy · 3 October 2009 · Chapter 37: A Night in the Wilds
I love Aragron comparing hobbits for rangers, and the fact that hobbits pounce of mushroom and berry patches. Aragorn sure did get a eye opener on his trip with the hobbits!
Author's reply
It is hard to imagine hobbits walking past edible mushrooms and not pouncing on them! Rangers and hobbits may have their differences, but they both possess bravery and devotion. Thanks for reading!
Antane · 2 October 2009 · Chapter 37: A Night in the Wilds
Interesting conversation and observations - that the days are darker because the hobbits are quieter, that every Ranger (as well as every wizard as Gandalf says later) should have a hobbit with them, that just because an ancestor was messed up doesn't mean we will be (that's the best) and that Frodo is given new determination (as if he needed any) to fight against the shard. Aragorn has received an education tonight. Love that he hums to comfort his teacher. Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Frodo's vision is described as clearing up and his mood ligthening after Sam sings his troll song, so I can see that their quietness would have the same effect on Aragorn, though for different reasons. I actually think that *everyone* would benefit from having a hobbit around! I know I would! ;) Ones ancestors really have little to do with oneself, except for appearances. Still, if Gandalf was hestitant to take the Ring, I can hardly blame Aragorn for not wanting to either. Frodo's stubborness will never allow him to truly give up, but taking away this crutch would remove any temptation he might have in giving in to the Ring. Aragorn has learned much about hobbits tonight. Thanks for reading! :)
Andrea · 29 September 2009 · Chapter 37: A Night in the Wilds
"Then I shall have to keep fighting," Frodo said. Wonderful! I just love Aragorn's honesty and Frodo's stubbornness and courage. Those two are unique!
Author's reply
These are two unique souls and they know just how to support each other, without falling into the trap of false hope. Thanks for reading!