Another great chapter - I wish I had more time - drat it all - but I will wend my way through this delightful tale bit by bit.
I almost felt sorry for the prisoners - almost! If Tolkien had written Smeagol like this - I might have felt the pity Frodo did...
Also - love again the way you recap with such ease. It keeps me captivated, even though I know where you are heading - have 'seen' the story before - Keep it up - I think this is your best talent - for the nonce
Thanks for sharing this. Delightful!
Author's reply
Well, we will be travelling with those prisoners for quite a while, and you may get to know them better.
And I am also glad you're still enjoying this! I look forward to your reactions to the rest of the tale...
AspenJules
· 6 May 2007
· Chapter 39: Chapter 39
I loved this chapter!
How fun to see the mischevious!elf side of Legolas. He really was being a brat, wasn't he? Can't wait to see what Beri's come up with as revenge. (You know, I had *wondered* where Gimli was... and you answered my question as though you read my mind. Cool!)
I'm so excited for them to reach Edoras, and meet Eomer. I'm sure they all are too, except for the prisoners. I've been trying to guess what their fates will be and haven't been able to come up with anything, but I'm certain it will be fair, as well as innovative.
Great job, dreamflower! Hope the next one is up soon - that will be the chapter that begins the part I've been the most excited about!
Author's reply
He was a bit of a brat there, wasn't he. I am *quite* sure he knew *exactly* what he was interrupting!
They will be in Edoras *very* soon indeed! Perhaps tonight or tomorrow, in fact...
Agape4Gondor
· 6 May 2007
· Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Bravo! Excellent beginning - I loved Eothain's tale - and though a recap of events - it was not the least bit boring - but well worth the listen!
Thank you - As the RW allows, I will continue to read... and, I know, enjoy!
Author's reply
I meant to answer this the other day, and got interrupted. I'm glad you think I present the recap in a way that is not boring. It's one of those things that *have* to be done from time to time, but I try to do it in a way that gives it a bit of new perspective, from a different POV or something.
And I hope you continue to enjoy it!
Bodkin
· 6 May 2007
· Chapter 39: Chapter 39
Oh dear! Legolas should know better than to take on a Brandybuck! But then, they could do with a bit of light relief at the moment - everyone seems a bit too worried. Except Berilac and Viola, who have other things on their minds.
And poor Cado. He's worried about his father, afraid of Clovis and Dago and becoming aware that he will be cut off for ever from hobbit society and, in all likelihood, never marry or have a family of his own. Although I suppose he might be able to return to Bree one day, and settle there in a mixed hobbit/man society. He needs to get to Edoras and discover his fate ... which will, hopefully, get him away from that brother of his and let his better qualities begin to shine through properly.
Author's reply
Yes, Berilac is rather cut from the same mold as Merry. And a bit miffed at having his kiss forestalled.
I already know what will become of Cado, and I hope it will surprise most of my readers.
Poor Berilac! He is so in love that he doesn't know how to proceed. I do hope he manages to kiss her soon. I also wonder what he has in store for Legolas. As you know, I love a good prank. I will be looking forward to that!
Author's reply
We'll see about that kiss, sooner or later, LOL!
And he *will* get back at Legolas--sooner or later! *grin*
I don't know how I manage to do it every time but I miss a chapter and then have two to read on the next update! LOL I do enjoy having a couple to read in a row though. I loved all the riddles. Poppy's was very clever and I liked the way she joined in. I also enjoyed the reference to Sam's cooking!
Author's reply
Well, my pace has picked up again, now that I've reached the part where I wrote "backwards"--I just have to fill in transitions, and make sure I don't leave any mistakes from so much time passing.
The riddles were fun for me, to. And I found a great many more than I was able to use in this chapter, so maybe I'll be able to have another riddle contest at some point in time.
I'm sure Sam's cooking was one of Gimli's very fondest memories.
harrowcat
· 5 May 2007
· Chapter 39: Chapter 39
Looking forward to the revenge prank! I am quite surprised that Gimli hasn't offered to help!
Author's reply
Beri might ask Gimli to help if he needs to, and I expect the Dwarf would oblige. But I think otherwise, he'd just sit back and watch with amusement.
Agape4Gondor
· 5 May 2007
· Chapter 0: A recap of what has gone before, and a cast of characters
WOW - I've been wanting to read this for some time, and have just know decided that waiting will do no good - you keep posting and I will fall further and further behind!
Your cast of characters is impressive. I'm putting this in my favorites and will try to catch up as soon as I can.
Looking forward to reading this!
Author's reply
I hope you'll enjoy it! I do have a lot of characters, and sometimes I even have more--it's like herding cats sometimes, LOL!
I look forward to seeing what you think of it when you do get the time.
A very nice little romance coming to fruitiion here; makes me sigh to think of it!
I was struck by this sentence: "He had no idea if Berilac’s temper was as volatile as Meriadoc’s, but he did not want to put it to the test." You know, that's just perfect. I don't think I ever categorized Merry's temper per se, but when I do stop to think of him angry, volatile is exactly the right word!
Legolas is feeling his oats, isn't he? :)
Author's reply
It is just a "little romance", not the main plot of the story, but I think it inevitable that Viola would steal *some* young hobbit's heart on this long journey.
My Merry is a patient and forbearing hobbit for the most part--except when someone has hurt someone he loves, *or* when someone he loves has put themselves in jeopardy. To the former, he's rather implacable. The Banks brothers have a history with Merry. They caused *serious* harm to Pippin years ago, (in my story "The Dare") and he never trusted or forgave them, and years later when they caused further harm to others, he finally got the opportunity to blow-up on them, in "A New Reckoning".
In the latter case, well, "my" Merry has only lost his temper with Pippin a tiny handful of times over all the years he's known him, each a time when Pippin had foolishly endangered himself, or was about to endanger himself. But it never lasted any longer than it took for Merry to vent. When Merry does lose his temper, it's rather explosive; but afterwards, it's over.
Legolas has a rather puckish sense of humor. We even see that in canon--remember his somewhat inappropriate smugness on Caradhras? Or the "counting game" with Gimli at Helm's Deep? I don't see it as much of a stretch to him finding amusement in interrupting Beri's wooing, LOL!
GamgeeFest
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 39: Chapter 39
How *dare* Legolas! hehehe Poor Beri and Viola. Can't wait to see what Beri will come up with. He might not have the knack for mischief that Merry and Pippin have, but he's been around them long enough to have learned a thing or two. I'm sure Merimac will be nothing but thrilled when his son comes home and announces his betrothal.
And poor Cado. He's going to pay dearly for not using his own common sense sooner.
Author's reply
Legolas was feeling a bit puckish, I think! ;-) And Beri's already got an idea--he will just need to await the right opportunity. I'm quite sure that Merimac *will* be glad to have such a nice lass as Viola for a future daughter-in-law!
Yes, Cado *will* reap what he's sown--but it might actually end up doing him more good than not...
(Oh and thanks for the "heads-up" on my little inconsistency. The majority of the chapter was written *months* ago, the transitions a bit more recently--I'm glad I didn't make *more* of a mistake, but I will go in a edit for it.)
PIppinfan1988
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 39: Chapter 39
Berilac is getting to be quite the courageous suitor -- daring to hold Viola's hand in broad daylight! LOL, Gimli's right; Beri's revenge to Legolas could prove amusing...I'll be looking forward to that. ;-)
I can tell everone is starting to feel the "itch" to get to their destination. I'm eager to see their reaction Rohan. :-)
PF
Author's reply
Since he is beginning to realize that everyone in the company already knows which way the wind is blowing, he's decided to ratchet up the wooing a notch. He would have stolen a kiss, too, if not for Legolas--no wonder he wants "revenge", LOL!
The will be in Meduseld very soon indeed, and you will soon realize their reactions.
Kitty
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 39: Chapter 39
Glad to know Edoras is finally near. I’m sure the hobbits are relieved, too. Save the prisoners, of course.
It’s fun to watch Beri and Viola. They’re so sweet together; I’m sure Freddy is right that they will return betrothed. They have a whole year in very close company, after all. A pity Legolas and then Poppy interrupted them. I’d be interested in what Beri had wanted to say.
And of course Gimli knew at once who had splashed them. Interesting *grin*
Hmmm ... could it be Beri is planning something in connection with pipeweed? We know how Legolas dislikes it, after all. I look forward to this. Rather a change to the times when most hobbits were so shy of him, isn't it?
Author's reply
Yes--in fact they will be reaching Meduseld in the very next chapter.
I'm not quite sure what Beri wanted to *say*, but he most certainly was hoping to at least claim a kiss at that moment. Legolas really was mean, LOL!
could it be Beri is planning something in connection with pipeweed?
Well, I rather telegraphed that one, didn't I? *grin*
Berilac's been travelling in the Elf's company for a good long while now. He still respects and admires him, but he's certainly not shy of him anymore! You know what they say about familiarity...
Beri and Viola are a lovely couple - just delightful. I doubt Merimac will be upset when he realises just how sensible Viola is.
Cado is really showing some sense at last - self-knowledge and regret will make him a stronger and nicer person. I feel rather sorry for him and his father now and I hope Aragorn will show compassion - well, he's Aragorn, of course he will!
Naughty Legolas! How cute, a mischievous Elf. Gimli is very wise and knows his friend too well.
Author's reply
I think Merimac will be thrilled to welcome such a sensible hobbit-maid as his future daughter-in-law, actually; but he might be a bit taken aback if they don't wait until they come home to get betrothed.
Well, Cado will be facing Eomer for judgement. But Eomer, I think, is also a compassionate and sensible King. You'll find out Cado's fate in just a few more chapters...And Aragorn will be dealing with Clodio and Dago.
Legolas has an occasionally wicked sense of humor. But, really, he should not have interrupted Beri and Viola at just that moment, LOL! Gimli will be interested in seeing what Berilac comes up with, in the way of payback! *grin*
AspenJules
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 38: Chapter 38
I seem to have been negligent in leaving reviews and I'm sorry. So I'll try to be sure to make up for it.
I really enjoyed this chapter, from Berilac's appreciation of the Rohirrim countryside to his discussion with Freddy of Merry's relationship with Eowyn and his love of the Rohirrim people, to the wonderful description of their meal (the meals you describe *always* make me hungry!).
I really enjoyed Gimli's compliment that that was as good a meal as any Sam had made. I love references back to the Fellowship and their travels from Gimli and Legolas, and then to actually take it back to Bilbo and *his* Adventure was wonderful too!
Which lead of course into the riddle game! Eeeeee, I was proud of Mistress Poppy! And I liked that for the most part their different riddles were hard for the others to guess - it kind of highlights and mimics Bilbo and Gollum's game, but in the open air under the stars (I presume), and among friends, so it's positive instead of scary and creepy.
OH, and I was actually able to guess the Plow! WOOOT! Lovely chapter!
Author's reply
Oh, I don't think you're negligent--I don't really mind if a chapter's not reviewed the second I post it. It's kind of nice to get new ones for a previous chapter, in fact.
I thought it would be fun to see Rohan through hobbit eyes in a time of peace, when the land could be appreciated. I based most of the physical descriptions on info from The Atlas of Middle-earth. And it was fun to do a bit of research on the 'net to find out what sort of wild greens and roots might be available in that sort of climate. I've never actually eaten salsify myself, though I'm hoping to grow a bit in my garden this year. *crosses fingers*. But there were some neat recipes for soups and stuff I found while researching this chapter.
Yes, it was sort of like the game between Bilbo and Gollum, but far less deadly, among friends instead of enemies. I knew as soon as I'd found those Anglo-Saxon riddles a while back, that there *had* to be a riddle-game between the Rohirrim and the hobbits!
I thought the Plow one was rather hard, myself, so kudos to you for guessing!!
Larner
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 39: Chapter 39
Legolas ought to know better! He's traveled with this ones cousins, after all!
Yes, I think Beri's going to come home betrothed indeed, and about time.
And Cado is becoming less self-centered by the day. Good!
Author's reply
Yes, he *should* know better. But he's not above stirring up a little mischief, and he thinks he's clever enough not to get caught by surprise. Which of course, will make it even more of one, LOL!
It's likely. A good deal will depend on Mistress Poppy, of course. Viola is her charge after all.
Cado's finally allowing his long suppressed better nature to surface. It's a painful process, as he's very nearly left it too late. But he's trying to see his way clear at last.
Telpethoron
· 4 May 2007
· Chapter 39: Chapter 39
I have to agree...it wouldn't be the least bit surprising to see Berilac and Viola betrothed before too long. They seem to make a near perfect match.
I'm starting to feel just a bit of sympathy for Cado after all this. For all that he has done, it looks like he's starting to see the error of his ways - unlike his cohorts.
Legolas and his mischief - knowing how Elves react to smoking, I can only imagine what trickery Berilac might be up to. This should be good!
Looking forward to the next chapter - great job!
Author's reply
Well, my hints are about as subtle as a hammer, LOL! But they do make a sweet couple, I think.
Cado is finally coming to his senses. He's spent most of his life taking the easy road and following after his brother's lead--even those times when he knew in his heart that he shouldn't. But the blinders are off now, and he'll never be able to see his brother the same way again.
Beri's got a rather good notion. And he's not in a particular hurry to put it into effect. He'll wait until Legolas is off-guard.
Loved the riddles - you are clever with those. A delightful look at our hobbits and how nice to see Beri and Viola growing closer.
Meant to drop by last week but my modem refused!
Author's reply
Well, only one of those was my original--the "shadow" one. The hobbits' riddles were all old nursery riddles, and those of the Rohirrim were actually old Anglo-Saxon riddles from the Book of Exeter.
You'll see more of Beri and Viola next chapter...
*naughty modem*scolds gremlins*
Bodkin
· 1 May 2007
· Chapter 38: Chapter 38
Hobbits are remarkably good at being hunter-gatherers. Which is just as well considering their liking for regular and abundant meals.
And they had fun with the riddle game.
In fact, everything seems to be going swimmingly. Doubtless, danger looms ever closer!
Author's reply
Well, of course, that's the reason they are good at being hunter-gatherers; I am quite sure that foraging is a skill almost *all* young hobbits are taught!
I know *I* had fun with it--and it seemed like something else with which they could bond with the Men.
Claudia
· 29 April 2007
· Chapter 38: Chapter 38
oooh, I'm so glad that you updated this! I got to catch up at last. I'm rather concerned about Clodio. Yes, you still have me feeling sorry for those rascals, lol. :-) And what a delightful turn of events to have hobbits and men trying to trick each other with riddles! :-)
Author's reply
Well, poor Clodio is beginning to realize what he's done.
I thought that riddles could be one of those things that JRRT said the Rohirrim had in common with the Shire hobbits.
PIppinfan1988
· 29 April 2007
· Chapter 38: Chapter 38
That was fun! I was close on a couple of your riddles, but still not on the money. :-P After the day before, this was a rather nice respite from the road for the travellers. LOL, leave it to a hobbit to find food. :-)
PF
Author's reply
Some of those riddles were pretty hard! This was a fun interlude to write.
And naturally the hobbits would find food whenever it's there to find.
GamgeeFest
· 28 April 2007
· Chapter 38: Chapter 38
The Men's riddles are very long, I notice. lol What a fun evening for everyone. It's also interesting that the Men wouldn't think to gather up wild shoots and herbs as they travel, but the hobbits would. Next time they travel through the emnet, the Rohirrim should be able to find themselves better tasting meals. ;)
Author's reply
Those are *actual* Anglo-Saxon riddles, and I'm convinced that it was part of making the riddle hard to guess by making it very long, so that it's hard to focus on the essential clues.
I think that the hobbits would *always* be thinking in terms of useful food, while the Men are more focussed on getting from point A to point B as quickly as possible.
Kitty
· 26 April 2007
· Chapter 38: Chapter 38
The Rohirrim and Gondorians will miss the Hobbits when travelling without them in the future, I suppose. Stale waybread and leathery meat ... doesn’t sound overly appetisingly. I’m not convinced the jaw needs *that* much exercise ;-)
When Frodo and Sam have finished the Red Book, I think not only Aragorn needs a copy, but Éomer as well. The Rohirrim should know the whole story, too, particularly as Merry is more or less one of them.
The riddles at the end are fun, though I am myself quite hopeless at this game.
Author's reply
I’m not convinced the jaw needs *that* much exercise ;-)
*snort!* Oh yes, hobbits are *very* useful when traveling!
I would not be a bit surprised if you are right--perhaps Merry saw to it!
I had a great time with the riddles myself!
I have been following along for a while here, catching up as a I could and reluctant to comment since I was so far behind and still getting my bearings. This is a story with wide scope--a wonderful sequel in the history of hobbits, enlightening and hopeful and encouraging!
I have always been miserable at riddles but you did a wonderful job with them here. The contest was fun to read and to play along with, too. Also, I have noticed as I go along that this story is a real inspiration to modern folk in terms of remembering that the earth provides nourishing food in abundance if you know what to look for. I get hungry every time they sit down to eat!
Author's reply
I'm so glad to know you're enjoying this! I just had to let some of the other hobbits travel out of the Shire and get an idea of the rest of the world.
Riddles are fun. Only one of them was my original (the "shadow" one). The rest were either traditional nursery riddles, or Anglo-saxon alliterative riddles.
My idea about hobbits is this: having no religion, there has to be *something* for life to revolve around. And for a race that eats six to seven meals a day, then *FOOD* would have to be one of their central facts of life. Hence, my hobbbits rather obsessing over it. Foraging would be something almost all hobbits would learn early in life--to take advantage of nature's bounty, whether cultivated or not! And being hobbits, they would be sure to learn the tastiest ways of preparing such things.
Telpethoron
· 25 April 2007
· Chapter 38: Chapter 38
It's been a while since I read this story, so I wanted to catch up completely before reviewing it.
I read "A New Reckoning" some time ago, and was very pleased to see a sequel in the works. This has been a fascinating story from the very beginning, especially for someone fairly new to the LOTR fandom (I only started delving into it once I saw the films). Your descriptions and characterizations have been top notch, and I'm looking forward to seeing what lies in store for the company when they reach Edoras.
One question, though - I seem to remember there being talk (in reviews of an earlier chapter) of a planned sequel to this tale, taking place in Gondor. I've been reading the whole story over the past two days or so trying to get up to speed, so I may have misread that.
Great work, as always!
Author's reply
I am so glad you are enjoying the story, and am glad you are all caught up now!
"A New Reckoning" is one of my own favorites among my stories, in which I sort of solidified many of my theories about the Shire and about hobbits. I'm glad you like my descriptions and characterizations--the latter is always my first and foremost goal in a fic, while I always worry about the former. I know that sometimes I feel my descriptions are not very vivid in comparison to some writers I admire, such as elanor winterflowers or Danachan.
Yes, there will be a sequel in Gondor. *This* story will end *in* Edoras, though not until certain matters are resolved there. The sequel will pick up when they arrive at Minas Tirith, and cover the time they spend there. I actually already have begun to jump ahead in time, in working on it, but it will be quite a while before any of it is ready for public consumption.
harrowcat
· 25 April 2007
· Chapter 38: Chapter 38
I love these riddles and the varying styles from the different cultures. And of course it brings to mind the bit in FOTR, (I think,) where Frodo and Gandalf are talking about Bilbo and Gollom's riddle game and Gandalf's assumption that Gollom is related to hobbits.
Author's reply
Well, I chose the old traditional "nursery" riddles for hobbits, and those of the Rohirrim were old Anglo-Saxon riddles.
It's clear from The Hobbit, and as you say, Gandalf and Frodo's discussion, that the riddle game is a very wide-spread custom in Middle-earth. And I thought that it might be one of those things that the Shire would have in common with Rohan, besides some of their old words.