I spent the last couple days finally reading this fic... and I enjoyed it, I assure you! :) I chose to comment to this chapter in particular because of this line:
*It was the will of the Valar to make us old and gray so that the young would listen to our voices.*
I really like that idea. :)
Author's reply
The gray hair idea came to me when I was thinking of how revered (spelling) our American Indians feel for their elders. We could probably learn something from that if we would only listen. I mean, they've been there, done that, right?
I am delighted that you've taken the time to catch up on the fic and hope you'll check out my others, if you haven't already. (The mind goes first, so if you've reviewed and read the others, please understand. My brain has been through alot in the last 2 years and I truly have virtually NO short term ((or long term..hehehe))memory, so please be patient). Hugs to you, until we meet
Tree
*snort* LOL!!! Variations on this scene could apply to all of us h/c writers, I'm afraid... ;) Though I must admit the personal details were quite amusing as well (like the hairy white legs, of which I am also guilty *cough*). :D
Author's reply
He he! Glad you liked it and welcome, welcome, my friend. I am honored that you're reading my little fic. I understand that you and I will be sitting only a few seats from each other at the symphony (your curse, I'm afraid) and I'm REALLY excited about finally meeting one of my idols!
Coriandra
· 10 June 2005
· Chapter 16: Epilogue
Nice ending, Frodo being taken care of by Aragorn and Sam even though he didn't think he needed to be. It must have been pretty miserable to have to be taken care like that. It's one of my worst nightmares, being in that position myself. But the important thing is that Frodo's safe and that he knows he's safe. That was quite a scene in the last chapter, the battle between Gandalf and Saruman over Frodo's mind. I loved that fact that Frodo got to save Gandalf, using the brush that had hypotised him. Nice touch too, Frodo getting to see Gandalf true form. I'm sorry to see this sorry end, but I know you'll have another wonderful one soon. I'm looking forward it, as always. :)
Author's reply
My worst nightmare as well. Even tho' I am a health care professional I hate having enemas etc especially by people I know and work with. I just got out of the hospital yesterday and got to experience every degradation know to man by friends and co-workers. Even tho' as when I am in their place I don't think twice about it, it still feels very weird when our roles are reversed.
I had to have Frodo show his valiant nature, so I pitted him against a powerful foe. He won out, of course, as I knew he would. Good over evil...something I can at least control in my stories if not in real life. Thanks so much for your reviews, you have been a wonderful supporter throughout the whole story.
I plan to finish my other two stories up, or at least make some much needed updates. Then I have an after Moria fic in mind.
Andrea
· 7 June 2005
· Chapter 16: Epilogue
And there it is: The End!
I'm still grinning, when I think of the nappies ;-)
And I just love Sam's dialect! That's typically him.
During this story, you did a lot to poor Frodo, but in the end, he's the one who won the battle against Saruman. And he should be proud of it. Instead, he's stubbornly insisting to do his "business" alone! That's Frodo, indeed.
Thank you for this story, and I'm looking forward to read more about Frodo and the gang!
Author's reply
I *do* torture him unmercifully, don't I? (No, I wasn't the kid that pulled wings off of butterflys). His character is just so vulnerable, I can't help myself. But then the Florence Nightengale in me jumps in to save the day. Love making him better....Thanks for your steadfast reviews and support throughout the fic, I really, really can't express my appreciation enough!
they are very distrusting of your next predicament they will encounter with you as author. They should be!!Ha! Like it very much and sorry to see the story end as well. Look forward to more in the future.
Author's reply
I hope to keep them soooo busy they won't have time to attack me in my sleep. Glad you are still reading, sorry this reply is so late.
shirebound
· 6 June 2005
· Chapter 16: Epilogue
The end! What a suspenseful, fascinating story, tree! Congratulations. And I'm so glad (of course) to hear that you're planning new adventures for our stalwart Ringbearer and his wonderful Fellowship.
Author's reply
Thank you, my friend. I really enjoyed this fic, and am a little sad that it is ending, but I really need to work on the others as well. Writing three fics at once is insane and I won't ever do that again...RL just doesn't permit it. I can hardly wait to try the next story, but really wanted to update EVBW and Labyrinth before my surgery. Alas, that may not happen...just too much to take care of before tomorrow morning. (eeek!) Take care, love to you as always tree
Breon Briarwood
· 6 June 2005
· Chapter 16: Epilogue
Wow! What a wild ride! I loved the whole busines about Frodo doing his 'business' with Sam's help, and Sam standing up to him. :D Maybe now he'll ask for help when he needs it?.... Naw!
Author's reply
I really wanted Frodo to go back to what started this whole mess in the first place...that he hated being hovered over by the Fellowship and didn't want them to really assist him, because he thought he was capable. Of course, Saruman would have still probably attacked him and everything would have still happened, but that's another story. Glad you came along on the ride and hope you'll join me again.....tree
Larner
· 6 June 2005
· Chapter 16: Epilogue
Yes, several types of hope are there in this party. Glad that they are on their way again at last.
Lovely tale, and glad Saruman was bested.
"All right" ought to be two words, but if that's the only grammar thing I can truly catch, you're doing very well!
Author's reply
Ooops! Grammar and spelling are not really my fortay (see?). Although I have to admit, writing fanfiction has really helped alot. So glad you enjoyed the fic and hope you will read my next one....tree
Andrea
· 4 June 2005
· Chapter 14: The Battle
“That is all that we need now… a jittery Took.”
Jittery, that's the perfect expression for how I was feeling throughout this showdown! And a brilliant showdown it was, absolutely breathtaking!
Did Frodo really think he could make it through the blizzard? Must have been his stubborness and Lorelei's manipulation.
In particular, I liked it, that Gandalf convinced Frodo, that only a few people could have resisted Saruman's voice. And in the end it was Frodo who won the battle!
I enjoyed reading this story very much and I'm waiting for the last chapter. I'm a little sad, that this story comes to an end now, but I'm sure there will be more stories!
Thank you :)
Author's reply
You are TOO kind. This fic was alot of fun to write, but I didn't think there was much more I could've done to our poor boy. I had hoped to get the Epilogue up a couple of days ago, but my boss decided to have me work instead. I hope to have it up today....I really should stop promising, huh? Yes, I have lots of ideas for new fics. I want to finish the other two, although Labyrinth has quite a few chapters before it's done. I have a new idea for an after Moria fic that I'm itching to start. I will be layed up for a few weeks, but hope I'll feel well enough to write. Thanks again. It's such a boost to morale to have you review and enjoy my little story. love to you, tree
Larner
· 3 June 2005
· Chapter 14: The Battle
Ah, a wonderful ending to the battle for Frodo's obedience and regard.
Alas, poor Saruman, he does end up getting whupped a few times, doesn't he? And, he deserves it so much.
Author's reply
Thanks so much for reading! I was afraid the showdown would be too fast, but everyone seems to have enjoyed it. I love your fics and appreciate your reviews more than you'll ever know. love to you and yours. tree
shirebound
· 2 June 2005
· Chapter 14: The Battle
Yay! Now I can log off and go to bed, dreaming lovely, happy, healed-Frodo dreams.
"The look of love and concern in Gandalf’s eyes warmed him as no look from Lorelei ever had and, in a heartbeat he had made his decision, feeling a sudden wave of relief wash over him."
*sigh* We so often have to look beyond the physical, and make our decisions based on instinct and trust. I like how Gandalf/Olorin and Frodo fought side by side in defeat of illusion.
Author's reply
Wow! You are FAST! I just barely posted then made the rounds to all the sites and livejournal to let them know...when I come back here you are and your wonderful review. It's best you didn't read the ff.net version, much longer because I had to dole out some of my righteous indignation to one reviewer, then answer all of the wonderful reviews that should have received my attentions in the first place. So glad you liked it...was the battle scene long enough? or should I have drawn that out a bit? Thanks kid, it's always a pleasure to hear from you....tree
Coriandra
· 25 May 2005
· Chapter 13: The Choices of Master Frodo
Yikes this is terrible! Hi Tree, sorry I haven't reviewed the story for so long, but it's still on my favourite list, you can be sure of that. Anyway, Frodo really blew it didn't he? I can't believe he's still being deceived by Lorelei. I thought he was past that when he realized the vision in the last chapter wasn't his mother. What's the Fellowship going to do now? I hope the Valerian root hasn't affected everyone. Hopefully some members are more resistant to it than others. I guess we'll find out in the next chapter, which I'm looking forward to greatly, as always.
Author's reply
Sorry it's taken me SO long to respond to your review. I've been layed up recently and it's really slowed me down from doing the things I love. I know, just what I need to be SLOWER than my usual. Thanks for your review, super happy to be on your favorites list *blushes*
Andrea
· 19 May 2005
· Chapter 13: The Choices of Master Frodo
Oh my god! Again, the evil Lorelei (or Saruman) seems to have succeeded! Frodo will not make it far away at the state he is in. For a short moment I thought, that Aragorn was suspicious and did not drink of the tea, but no, he's also completely helpless! Something has to happen!!! If Frodo reaches Saruman, it will be his death, I'm afraid.
Remembering "Chapter 12b", I wonder what Frodo will think of the story progress now? He will not be pleased with his obedience to Lorelei! But I think, that's absolutely believable! That's just how he might have reacted!
*Prepares for the wrath of Frodo*
Author's reply
I would hope Frodo would be so involved in fighting his demons he would forget about me and my untimely addition of chapters. he he...so sorry this has taken so long to get to you....things have been ... errr....hectic, to say the least. Love to you and thanks so much for reviewing.
Larner
· 18 May 2005
· Chapter 13: The Choices of Master Frodo
Alas, Frodo, following the advice of Saruman himself. Hopefully he won't injure himself sufficiently in this new adventure to lead to another several weeks in the cave as he recovers.
Author's reply
I hope not too! I don't have all that much time before my family arrives to cure him, LOL.
shirebound
· 18 May 2005
· Chapter 13: The Choices of Master Frodo
Oh my goodness! I'm glad Frodo's healing physically, but Saruman has definitely found the hobbit's weakness -- his love and concern for the wellbeing of his friends and kin. That was a fascinating 'hypnosis' scene, too. How fascinating this is!
Author's reply
I almost hypnotized myself in the bargain. That's what I get for writing till the wee hours of morning. His weakness is definately his friends well being but he will defeat Saruman in the end, I promise.
Breon Briarwood
· 18 May 2005
· Chapter 13: The Choices of Master Frodo
Nooooooooooo! *dances around* I can only hope that Gandalf is not affected by the potion! *bites nails*
Author's reply
Nope...won't happen. I plan to continue writing on this fic until it's finished instead of switching, like I usually do, to my other two ongoing sagas.
Starfire_Moonlight
· 18 May 2005
· Chapter 13: The Choices of Master Frodo
What! He left! And in his condition too. Can I please knock some sense into this hobbit? *grabs a frying pan and waits for approveal* :D
Author's reply
*Gives permission and crinches back into corner to watch* No fear, he will, eventually, come to his senses.
Aha, will review it here as well as on FFN. Still think this is a hilarious way to deal with our frustration on how long it is taking to get the next chapter. Love it! And Frodo is tired of being sick? Don't blame him at all!
Author's reply
Thanks again for enjoying my little ditty. *I* would be VERY tired were I in his ...urmmm...feet?
Uh-oh, looks like somebody got in trouble. You had better do as they say. But do please update soon! And make poor Frito-er-Frodo get better soon. :D
Author's reply
Yep, I am officially in deep doo doo but never fear, our Fro' will be on the mend, moreso even than in the next chapter, I promise.
Andrea
· 16 April 2005
· Chapter 12: Phantasms
Oh my god, this was breathtaking! It started as a fair dream with Frodo being able to talk to his beloved mother. But Saruman's trick was revealed to Frodo and this experience must have been horrible.
I always thought that Primula was an extraordinary hobbit, like her son and I see, you share my opinion.
What will be Saruman's next step I wonder? But there is still a glimmer of hope: Gandalf to the rescue! I count on him :)
Take your time! This story deserves it!
Author's reply
Oh my God indeed, what a phantasic (hehehehe) review. You are so very kind, and your comments were so gratefully received. It's always a pleasure to see that there are those out there who help boost my ego. I'm still pretty new at this and it's such great fun to hear what reviewers think of my stories.
I had a hard time with the Primula thing. I wanted to continue in the context of Primula being, well, Primula, but thought that it would be more fitting for the story to have it be a deception. It was really too bad because I was truly enjoying the love and comfort that Frodo was feeling. Perhaps there's still a chance that his mother will reappear in the next chapter. The story's about finished. I think possibly one more chapter and then perhaps an epilogue, then I will be concentrating a few other stories that are posted on my livejournal. Hey, if you're interested I could send you the links. One of them is a sick Elijah fic, which is a stretch for me and I'm having a kick writing it. The other is a slash fic, which is also a stretch for me. The next chapter of Phantasm will be a real kick %$# chapter, and I already have it all mapped out in my teeny tiny brain. I hope to have it actually written soon, but can't be pinned down on the exact time. Love to you and thanks again for your glowing review....as always, tree
Mysterious Jedi
· 13 April 2005
· Chapter 12: Phantasms
Wonderful to see another chapter. I've seen slower updates in other places, so don't feel too bad :)
Saved from Sin by Christ,
<>< Mysterious Jedi
Author's reply
So glad you are enjoying the fic. Thanks so much for your encouraging words about my untimely updates. I think I'm harder on myself than any of you all.
shirebound
· 13 April 2005
· Chapter 12: Phantasms
Darn right he's stronger than he looks, Saruman you meanie! You just wait until Gandalf enters the fray.
*glares at Saruman who doesn't know what he's up against*
Author's reply
Saruman will get his, I'll see to it, never fear. One more chapter and maybe an epilogue then it's probably done. Hoping to update Labyrinth and EVBW soon. We'll see. Thanks, as always, for dropping me a note and reviewing. *huggles*
So glad to see another chapter of this! What was not to like about this chapter? Not a thing! I especially liked the impromptu surgery. Hope you have more for us soon.
Author's reply
I am SO sorry it has taken me so long to answer your review. Sometimes...well, let's not go into the moaning and groaning of issues that RL brings....
Hope you enjoy this chapter and thanks so much for taking the time to review!
shirebound
· 23 March 2005
· Chapter 11: Fever Pitch
Yes, Gandalf, find out what's going on, and quickly! Poor Frodo, trying to warn everyone despite such agony. Wow, what a chapter, tree. Wonderful concern and healing and still so suspenseful... and I hope Aragorn can get some sleep soon! I'll bet the grateful hobbits will be happy to watch over him.
Author's reply
Not to worry, Gandalf knows what's going on and will help our boy see the light. Glad you like the caring and healing and even the suspense. thanks for reviewing so quickly as always!
Mysterious Jedi
· 23 March 2005
· Chapter 9: Rescue
So you see there are reasons I would never wish to preform surgery! I'm afraid I'd be likely to accidentally kill someone. Aragorn's a great healer, though.
Author's reply
Yes he is and I love to use him as much as I can in any story that I write. Thanks so much for reading and reviewing!