What a treat on a Sunday morning to find two chapters posted at once. You had me in tears, both solemn and joyful, over the communion through the trees which is one of the biggest compliments I can pay a story. The final dinner scene was perfect too and I loved the insight into Aragorn's early days as a ranger. Is that the point where he stops wearing his star or am I getting confused?
My computer played me false when I tried to review chapter 22. You keep returning to the theme that we must seek to balance the griefs and sorrows with pleasure and joy - and not feel guilty. You are so right and it is a lesson that I keep trying to learn. Great stuff Larner. I am really looking forward your your picture of Rivendell.
Author's reply
Apparently Aragorn wore his star south to Rohan and Gondor, for he was called Thorongil there, in part because of it, apparently. I want to perhaps explore that one with the next nuzgul I've found lurking about the house. And, yes, we do need balance, very much so.
Had to post the second one, for it goes with the previous one, but doesn't feel like it ought to be specifically part of it.
Dreamflower
· 12 June 2005
· Chapter 24: Interlude
And for Frodo, too, how incredibly wonderful to know how well his dearest ones have fared...
Author's reply
One can be surrounded by the greatest of friends imaginable and still feel alone at times, cut off from our roots. I think he'd need the reassurance from time to time, and that he'd treasure such a group message as this one, knowing that these must have come all the way from the Shire to offer this greeting to him.
Dreamflower
· 12 June 2005
· Chapter 23: Taking Leave
I love this: what an interesting take on Aragorn's early days as a Ranger!
And the idea that there could be some communication between Frodo and those left behind through the Trees was just lovely!
I often think that one of the most amazing things of our time is communication. We are enabled to almost instantly communicate with anyone, anywhere, and to become friends with those whom we shall never meet face-to-face. More importantly, we can keep in touch with our loved ones far away.
But it has not been much more than a hundred years that any journey of more than a few days distance carried with it the frightening possiblity that you would never see or hear from that loved one again. Even for those who could read and for whom letters were a possiblity, there was no counting on them, for letters could so easily go astray. We take so much for granted.
The hobbits of Frodo's family would never have expected to be able to communicate with him, ever again in this life. To have been able to do so must have been an incredible and overwhelming experience.
Author's reply
I have always thought of Frodo and Bilbo spending some time beneath the White Tree, wanting to feel in some way closer to those they left behind, at least from time to time, which is why, I suppose, I've had so many encounters take place there in my stories. There is a special life in these trees in particular, and they help tie the descendants of Elros to the Undying Lands and the Valar; that they might, from time to time, give comfort in a psychic manner, would seem to flow logically.
Yes, we today have little idea how much moving forty miles away at one time cut the ties between families. Now we can travel over twice that far in an hour and a half, and complain when traffic makes it take longer. We forget just how lucky we are.
shirebound
· 11 June 2005
· Chapter 24: Interlude
*sigh* There is nothing we could wish for Frodo more than this utter joy.
Author's reply
Yes, I agree.
shirebound
· 11 June 2005
· Chapter 23: Taking Leave
Oh my. What a marvelous insight into the path Aragorn followed to become Chieftain of the Rangers... indeed, to feel out his place among mortalkind.
Everyone giving reverence to the Tree (and its connection to the West) was so very lovely. Light just shines through that whole scene.
Author's reply
I rejoice you love it, Shirebound. Thanks for the compliments!
Outstanding chapter!
Loved the Aragorn joins the Dunedain section, and the Trees!
Author's reply
I'm so very glad you love that, Amy. I always wondered what it would be like once he joined the Rangers, and have read a few stories I myself loved, so decided to play with it a bit myself.
As for the Trees, I always felt there would be a spiritual connection between the two of them!
Breon Briarwood
· 11 June 2005
· Chapter 24: Interlude
*grabs the tissues*
That was beautiful! *sniffle* Being able to commune with Frodo and send their thoughts through the tree. Just beautiful! *dabs at eyes*
Author's reply
I ought to buy stock in Scott Paper and Kleenex, I suppose! ;-) I am so glad it moves you.
Tigger
· 11 June 2005
· Chapter 24: Interlude
Oh my...I'm all caught up from the chapters I missed thanks to the thunderstorms that came through last night and most of today. You made me cry!! The chapter where everyone sends Frodo their love through the connection of the Trees...Wow!! So lovely and very touching as well.
I'm assuming this is not the end of the story, since you did say the twins will meet Aragorn. At Rivendell I'm guessing? Can't wait to read that meeting. :o)
Author's reply
Yes, this is but a small interlude. And, yes, on the way to Rivendell.
Kitty
· 11 June 2005
· Chapter 22: Impressions
Another touching piece - the way the others, even the Queen, describe the City to Ferdibrand. And the talk about the lights was nice. Truly, I love it how the Hobbits - and I don't mean Sam, Merry and Pippin - are so comfortable with Aragorn and Arwen. This visit in Gondor will do the relationship between Shire and the Reunited Kingdom a lot of good, I think, because some more Hobbits see for themselves how kind and trustworthy Aragorn is.
Author's reply
Each time there is meeting between Shire and officials of the Kingdoms there will continue to be a growth of trust between the Hobbits and their rulers, particularly when Aragorn himself is involved.
Am so glad you appreciate this, too.
Kitty
· 11 June 2005
· Chapter 21: Memorials
The idea with the birds as gifts is touching. It is a nice little piece of the story.
The Memorial Hall is another part I am fond of. I had wondered how the clothes would be preserved and where - now I know! It is good the mementos from the War of the Ring aren't the only ones there but a part of the long history of Gondor together with all the other.
Oh, and I love Elanor playing with Angara regardless of her short arms. Another nice detail.
Author's reply
Yes, the War of the Ring has indeed gone on for a very long time, and the final battles were only part of the defense of the realm. I'd wondered myself what had become of the clothing, and this is what I found as I began rummaging about the Citadel. Am so glad you found it appropriate, and that you love Angara and Elanor playing together. It only felt right to me.
shirebound
· 11 June 2005
· Chapter 22: Impressions
What a lovely conversation, especially between Ferdibrand and Aragorn.
“Did you feel Its influence, my Lord King?” she asked.
He straightened and nodded, looked off Eastward at the former realm of Sauron. “Oh, yes, I did. I had to close my mind to Its call, for It would have delighted to catch such as me. Often I felt the demand as Frodo slept to come and take It from him, the assurance that It was destroying him, depriving him of his ability to know happiness."
I tried to bring "By Chance or Purpose" to that same conclusion -- that Aragorn's greatest weakness had become Frodo, and his regard and concern for him. It's wonderful to see someone else write about that. And what a lovely thing for Aragorn and Frodo to still be 'connected' through the Trees.
Author's reply
Great minds think alike? I must ask. Yes, I had felt that this would be seen as the weakness for both Aragorn and Gandalf. "I would use this thing out of a desire to do good, but through me...." And the connection between the two of them will grow stronger shortly.
Andrea
· 10 June 2005
· Chapter 21: Memorials
Wow! I'm speechless. That was just wonderful!
There are so much thoughts and emotions in this chapter, that are not directly said, but are noticed while reading.
And I loved the birds. Frodo will never be forgotten!
Author's reply
Thank you for appreciating it.
harrowcat
· 10 June 2005
· Chapter 21: Memorials
Oh my dear, dear Larner - just beautiful. You have woven (excuse the pun) the story of the clothes into the tale so wonderfully, especially how Ruvemir knew how to dress Sam and Frodo. I like the idea that Sam and Frodo's attire found a place in a room of memorials already honoured. A fitting addition to a room that commemorates the long history of Middle Earth.
And the part with the tribute of birds, well just *aw*! (Spot Elizabeth just melting into a pool under her desk)
Author's reply
We do so wish to bridge the gap between those here and there, and it seemed the right thing to do. And I'd always wished to explore how Gandalf's promise the clothing would be preserved might be accomplished. Once that was done, then those coming to the unveiling would have wished to see it, and this tangible sign would have brought out the desire to honor Frodo in some small, more permanent way.
NiennaTru
· 10 June 2005
· Chapter 21: Memorials
I was very touched by this chapter. Well done. ;)
Author's reply
I find I love writing pathos in a positive manner, and am glad this chapter has indeed moved you. Thank you.
Dreamflower
· 10 June 2005
· Chapter 21: Memorials
*sniffle*blinks*sigh*
Beautiful.
Just. Beautiful.
Author's reply
The memorial itself would bring certain memories to the fore; but the clothing itself--these were items which were well known, well recognized. The memories stirred here would be more visceral, more personal, particularly as they showed the physical cost of the journey to Mordor more than did the statue. Every rip, missing button, lost shirt stud indicated Frodo had fallen, been disturbed while fastening his studs, had been grabbed at or had slipped. And the desire to bridge that gap would have been more visceral as well, I think.
And for the guards to see this desire to leave memorials and to bring it to the attention of the King himself just seemed in keeping with the nature of the place, and the additions he and the brothers left just flowed out of that.
At first I wasn't reading this story because I thought: "hobbits in the Shire," and I'm only interested in hobbits outside the Shire. I checked anyway a half dozen chapters ago and discovered all kinds of comings and goings, so I had to go back and catch up.
This is one of my favorite chapters. I love singing!Aragorn and hobbits in Minas Tirith, and sewing!Arwen (she's-so-canon). But mostly the conversations.
And I wanted to present this Reader's Appreciation Award for speedy and regular updates, which relieve the strain on my short-term memory!
Thanks!
Amy
Author's reply
I thank you, thank you deeply, and would like to share my thanks to.........
Yes, I, too, love the thought of singing Aragorn. And certainly embroidering Arwen is definitely canon, which is why I saw her admitted to the Guild of Seamstresses and Tailors as a Master Embroiderer on the basis of the King's banner.
I find I love trying to imagine the conversations, and rejoice they give you so much enjoyment.
There are a few more comings and goings still to happen, so be forewarned.
Dreamflower
· 9 June 2005
· Chapter 20: Morning Encounters
What a sweet and peaceful chapter. I love that Narcissa is getting a good chance to get to know and appreciate the King. And I love the interaction between Aragorn and Sam.
Pippin acting as guard is wonderful, as well. I do love your universe.
Author's reply
Yes, Narcissa is learning Frodo had the right of it--the King is well worth the loving, and is loving in return. I am glad the he and Sam were able to comfort one another, and that Pippin was fulfilling his duties as one of the guards of the King's person.
As I enjoy your Middle Earth as well, the feeling is mutual.
Tigger
· 9 June 2005
· Chapter 20: Morning Encounters
Wow!! I take off to attend two LOTR Symphony performances and look what I come back to. I'm all caught up and they were all so delightful. I love this universe and I love how you have Aragorn treating the hobbits. They really did become family out there during the Fellowship and they treat each other as such. So lovely to read.
Looking forward, as always, to the next chapters. :o)
Author's reply
Oh, I am SO jealous! So jealous! I missed my own concert date--was not feeling well and forgot it was Saturday!
Am so glad you are back and enjoying the ongoing tale. Yes, Aragorn and the Hobbits would feel a good deal like family, or so I've always felt.
harrowcat
· 9 June 2005
· Chapter 20: Morning Encounters
Oh this just keeps on getting better Larner. I love the way that Narcissa turns the tables on Aragorn by telling him how her father recognised him as Strider. I enjoyed Strider's on-going joke in the King's Commission too. I wonder that she didn't feel a little shy approaching him by herself but I treasure their conversation. And the intimate moment between Sam and the King - hand in hand, offering each other comfort, well, I just melted! Everyone needs a soul-friend to confide in. Away from the current story-line, I was also thinking about Aragorn's ride to the Shire to try and say good-bye to Frodo. It is a ride I dread having to do. But to have to go that far and then to miss him must have been totally heart-breaking. (I do have a life away from the computer and LOTR, honestly!) By the way, thank you for the speed with which you answer reviews.
Author's reply
When Mom was ill for the last time, I flew down to be with her for a week, then flew back. Hubby and I loaded my brother and his children into the motorhome and headed back as quickly as we could, intending to take guardianship of her that Grandmother not totally impoverish her once she was released into long-term care. Only while we were on the way Mom caught pneumonia and died anyway. We arrived just in time for the funeral. It was, indeed, heartbreaking. I think that was why I wrote it the way I did in For Eyes to See as Can, although certainly there was no indication that Aragorn was able to meet with the riding on the way to the Havens.
Aragorn and Sam had come to treasure one another for each other and also for the relationships each had known with Frodo. At that moment, I think they would turn to one another, needing that knowing that each was just as bereft, each equally praying the release to Elvenhome was allowing the needed healing, each needing to both give and receive that comfort.
Thanks for the feedback.
Kitty
· 9 June 2005
· Chapter 20: Morning Encounters
Another two-chapter-day :-) - although this probably means no update waiting tomorrow morning, because I've read it already.
Two lovely chapters. I love it how familiar Aragorn and his Hobbit friends treat each other and I think it is a good way for Narcissa, Freddy and the others to see the true nature of the King. The bit about Narcissas father was nice. And of course Aragorn knew at once his grandfather and great grandfather. Sometimes I wonder how many hours the Hobbits on the Quest have spent explaining all the thousand relatives up to the umpteenth degree to their companions. The others must have suffered quite a bit from too much cousins and aunts and uncles.
It is nice to see how even Lord Hardorn delivered his duty to protect Aragorn to Pippin with no doubts because of his size. It truly says a lot about the high esteem they all have for him. And I loved it how Aragorn has sent his cousin to bed and how Hardorn took it. Sometimes Hardorn is way too conscientious. And to want to marry him off ... *grins*
I fear Aragorn is quite right about "civilized men". It is sad, but true - a lot of people thinks so.
Now I look forward to the unveiling!
Author's reply
I left the Unveiling itself to The King's Commission, although we do have a good deal of time spent with the memorial, and a few revelations regarding it.
Yes, I've seen myself just how vicious "civilized" people can get when given the chance.
And, yes, I'm certain Merry and Pippin regaled the entire Fellowship with reams of information about their family ties, although Aragorn, having spent time with Bilbo in Rivendell, probably already had a good idea. I love to think of the old Hobbit waylaying the Dunedan, just returned from some long patrol or another, perhaps before he can even get a bath, to share a talk for a change with the one other mortal then with full freedom to come and go from Imladris.
Andrea
· 9 June 2005
· Chapter 20: Morning Encounters
Finally! After reading at least five chapters in a row I've caught up with you again :) Your update speed is amazing, you know?
And I love your OC's, especially Narcissa and Ruvemir. The sculptor is a fascinating person and he seems to have the gift to listen and with that, to ease pain. There are a lot of people present who are in need of such a person. And I think, he can help, maybe with the unveiling of the monument...
I have not read "The King's Commission" yet, but I will, I promise! I'm just fascinated with Ruvemir!
Thank you!
Author's reply
The actual unveiling is there in The King's Commission, so I don't repeat it here. But there is a need always for those who can listen and help cut through to the heart of pain and grief--there has always been such and always will be such.
And there is more that comes from the memorial to the four Hobbits, as they further come to terms with their grief and their own place in the outer world.
shirebound
· 9 June 2005
· Chapter 20: Morning Encounters
There you go again:
“There is no one so capable of refined viciousness,” he said bitterly, “as someone who believes himself to be fully civilized and who has convinced himself--or herself--that the one to be dealt with is not."
I fear there are far too many in our own world who have not yet learned that lesson. Maybe someday...
Author's reply
This is as true in our world as in Arda.
Thanks so much for appreciating it.
shirebound
· 9 June 2005
· Chapter 19: King and Sculptor
I hope you don't mind that I quote parts of your chapters back to you, Larner, but you truly have a wonderful way of describing things. I loved these passages especially...
He did not greet them formally, but with the joy of family, kneeling in the midst of them, exchanging children, hugging and being hugged. The sight of the tall Man kneeling on the ground outside the great Gates to the city, one arm around Sam and with Sam’s arm around his chest in return, Frodo-Lad on his other arm, would remain in her memory as the defining moment of knowing the nature of their King.
What must it be like for the King, to look into eyes which had seen those of his father, and grandfather, and who knew how many generations before him, and yet looked now into his own with the love of wife for husband?
Once he becomes aware of a need, our Lord King seeks ever to see it fulfilled.
Author's reply
Apparently you've always found certain passages fulfilling, and it's an honor to have you appreciate them. Thanks for making the writing worthwhile.
NiennaTru
· 9 June 2005
· Chapter 19: King and Sculptor
I just finished reading "The King's Commission" last night, so this chapter was a lovely companion piece to read this morning. ;) I liked the discussion of the Husbandmen's Dance especially. I don't believe I mentioned it in the original chapter it appeared, but the picture of Isumbard, Folco, and Reginard leaving a space open between them while dancing the Husbandmen's Dance as a memorial to Frodo was very touching.
Author's reply
I think that they would have wished all to remember him; and that you also see it as touching is a pleasure. The Shire is quietly waking to the knowledge that Frodo was important to them, I think.