This chapter was fun! I'm still grinning widely and can't say I'm overly concentrated on my work! The letter was a very good way to tell the Farozi what to expect and to consider about the visitors. Poor Nefiramonrani, that was quite a lecture in the difference of customs of different races. Shockingly self-sufficient, indeed! *lol* I can't help imaging what she will think if she sees Aragorn tending to the children or Éowyn sparring with the men if she thinks they need help even to dress :-D
Rustovrid proves quite wise to tell the Farozi so much about the informal way between the King and the others, sleeping accommodations, hobbit meals and so on. So they can prepare themselfes for their guests. And it was *very* wise of Aragorn to send so much food ahead as a present. Now he has at least not to worry Pippin and Bard have to starve. By the way, I'm curious how the Haradrim will react to the hobbits, after they seem not to know what they have to expect.
Thank you for the explanation about names. It was very interesting, and I am (still!) quite impressed!
I look forward to the next update!
Author's reply
Yes, Aragorn caring for the children will be a shock, as will Eowyn sparring with her brother and her husband. As for the Hobbits themselves--they will make themselves at home, I think. And the people of Harad will learn a bit more of the love and honor the King holds for others, and that others hold for him.
Raksha The Demon
· 5 August 2005
· Chapter 10: Guest List
Sounds like a great road trip!
I only have one quibble - was it wise for Aragorn and Faramir to bring all their kids? If the expedition falls prey to a sandstorm, or an attack by renegade tribes or bandits, and neither Faramir, Aragorn, nor their kids survive, not to mention Rohan, then great chaos would result.
That being said, I'm glad Faramir gets to go on the trip; he's the type of man who would love to see far horizons and lands not his own. And of course, he would speak Haradri, being a good linguist.
I can't wait to see how the Haradrim react to the hungry, personable hobbits!
eiluj
· 4 August 2005
· Chapter 10: Guest List
A masterful report from Rustovrid! We can see why he was chosen as ambassador.
I am still laughing at the mental image of Denethor confronted by Aragorn's camel....
Author's reply
Thank you for the evaluation on Rustovrid's abilities. He appreciates it thoroughly, as do I.
And we are all still chuckling at the idea of Denethor and the camel, to the point I almost wish Aragorn had sent it to him.
grumpy
· 4 August 2005
· Chapter 8: Road by Sea
Great ending to the first part of your story. Hardorn has his wayward cousin back under his watchful eye. Liked all that snake stuff Aragorn had on him, when he was searched. This whole chapter was great.
Author's reply
He chose the snake carving for Elrond's sake, serpents having so long been considered part of healing in our world to the point the serpents about the scroll has become the sign of physicians from the days of ancient Greece; then he chose the long knife, I think, primarily for its good balance and fine blade; that it was decorated with a serpent was probably incidental. That knives and swords from Far Harad where I've indicated Ghansaret the snake goddess who is a symbol of rebirth is popular would be decorated with her associated animal would be to be expected, of course; all of which would draw attention away from the true meaning of the serpents on the Ring of Barahir, of course. So glad you appreciate it!
And Hardorn must have been driven frequently crazy by his cousin's independent streak. However, two of them together in Harad might have been more suspicious in the eyes of Mordor's agents.
Glad to see you reading this here.
grumpy
· 4 August 2005
· Chapter 9: “To the King of Gondor and Arnor, from the Farozi of Harad...”
Great cont. of the story, So little Rustovrid has grow up to be an ambassador, and Aragorn is still singing the mouse and the frog song, I love the idea of him singing this song and weeding. Weeding is very good for the soul. looking forward to more
Author's reply
Glad you appreciate the singing of the frog and mouse song. It was inspired, of course, by the folksong of "The Frog He Would A-Wooing Ride", although I was unwilling to put one of our songs strictly into Middle Earth, so I changed it a bit. Am now finding myself trying to imagine the tune this song would be put to.
And he's already teaching children by example, both to do what is necessary and enlivening it by singing foolish songs to and with them.
Dreamflower
· 4 August 2005
· Chapter 10: Guest List
Do not underestimate the Pheriannath. Their appearance belies their wisdom and experience, their skills, and their sheer determination. Great ambition is not a common failing of Hobbits; but they are renowned for their demonstrated capacity for responsibility, reliability, and their hardy nature. Be forewarned, however, that they are also remarkably curious and prone to be somewhat unpredictable.
*giggle* In Pippin's case anyway, that's an understatement!
I love the way that you worded the letter. By describing the needs and customs of the Northerners, Rustrovid also sheds great light on the customs and differences of the Haradrim, as he tells of the things they are *not* accustomed to. This is a wonderful device, and very cleverly used. I also like the way everything and everyone is set forth, so that we readers will be more easily able to keep track of who is there and what they are doing.
Looking forward to more of this excellent tale.
Author's reply
Hobbits are going to be quite a new experience to the folk of Harad, I think!
Glad you appreciate the use of the letter. Thank you for the feedback on it, for it could easily be just boring data.
Tigger
· 4 August 2005
· Chapter 10: Guest List
Sorry for not reviewing till now. We've had thunderstorms the last two nights. I've read the past two chapters and enjoyed them. Glad to see the answer to why Aragorn had to give his Ranger star to the pool. If it had been found on his person at the harbour...Also liked how the Ring of Barahir was seen by the guard. If it had been an agent of Mordor, they would have recoginized that Ring in an instant. Nicely done all around.
I can easily imagine how the Farozi's daughter in law would be shocked at the thought of Royals tending themselves. After all, Haradi culture is described by you to rely heavily on slaves and servants. This would truly be a foreign concept to them. Wait till she sees how Arwen and Eowyn are truly mothers to their children and not just rely on the nurse in their retinue. That should just finish her right off right there. ;o)
Looking very much forward to the next chapter. :o)
Author's reply
Yes, I suspect that had the officer and not the guard seen the Ring of Barahir, Aragorn would have been arrested immediately and word sent off swiftly to Mordor of the capture of one who appeared to be Isildur's heir. However, in the light of local beliefs, it was instead interpreted as a further dedication of a serpent goddess not known at all in the North! How well we tend to project our own beliefs and customs on those of different cultures!
And, yes, Neferamonrani is going to be even more blown away as she comes to know the four women who accompany the great King of Gondor and Arnor.
Glad your thunderstorms did no damage to your equipment.
Kitty
· 4 August 2005
· Chapter 9: “To the King of Gondor and Arnor, from the Farozi of Harad...”
Another unexpected reunion, at least for Rustovrid! He was obviously not aware Horubi'ninarin was the one which saved Sohrabi's life. But of course, they didn't talk about what truly happened and how the crocodile was able to catch Maruset. (By the way, I sometimes wonder how you are able to come up with so many exotic names! I would be at a loss if I should think of only one fitting name!)
This will be quite an unforgettable birthday for Sohrabi with so many noble guests! I loved it how Pippin at once agreed to accompany Aragorn and then so many others decided to go, too. It is always nice to have all of my favourites together, or at least most of them. Only a pity Merry and the other hobbits didn't go, too. But thinking about it, the Haradrim probably wouldn't have enough food to feed more than two hobbits ;-)
Author's reply
As for names--Sohrabi and Rustovrid's names originally came from an Iranian legend, the tale of Sohrab and Rustom; using their names in a more Egyptian setting might not be quite kosher, but then Rustovrid is from Far Harad and therefore of a more black-African culture, so his name is likely to be different anyway, while Sohrabi does have the name of Ra in his own name.
The Egyptians tended to have one or more names of gods worked into their names, so I have adapted this to an extent, creating honorific prefixes and "common" feminine and masculine name endings in some cases.
No, I doubt Rustov would have connected the King with the one he had met when he was a child; and as he was not told the name of the agent of Mordor who'd worn the lesser ring there was no means of connecting that to Maruset or the disappearance of Virubat to Horubi'ninarin, either.
You will find in today's chapter that the King was evidently worried about bringing just two Hobbits to the Farozi's court! (Grinning!)
aragorn_reader
· 4 August 2005
· Chapter 9: “To the King of Gondor and Arnor, from the Farozi of Harad...”
A post-restoration trip to Harad!
*weeps with joy*
Amy
Author's reply
Well, it's the story of TWO visits to Harad, after all. Glad you are pleased.
utfrog98
· 3 August 2005
· Chapter 9: “To the King of Gondor and Arnor, from the Farozi of Harad...”
I was so hoping that Ruvemir, etc. would make an appearance and here they are. Loving the story.
Author's reply
Well, of course! So glad you appreciate the second trip involves far more than just Aragorn. Thanks for the feedback!
Dreamflower
· 3 August 2005
· Chapter 9: “To the King of Gondor and Arnor, from the Farozi of Harad...”
**Oh joy!!!** Pippin's going! Pippin's going too!!! *jumps up and down in excitement*
I could wish Merry along, but your scenario makes sense. Merry's sense of responsibility would make him wish to do both, but he knows that their families actually need him more than Pip does. But I'm so glad Isembard's going--it will be good for Pippin to have at least one other hobbit along, and Bard will have a fresh POV about everything!!!
Oh, I'm so *glad* hobbits are going! I know you hinted at it, but still--can you tell I'm happy at this development? *grins fool head off*
Author's reply
Yes, I can definitely tell this turn of events has you pleased. Now, if I can just write fast enough to keep even with my usual publishing schedule. Am catching up rapidly, I fear.
finafyr
· 3 August 2005
· Chapter 9: “To the King of Gondor and Arnor, from the Farozi of Harad...”
You know my dear Larner.. I have thought it before.. and I will say it even though I may have said it before.. your writing is the highlight of my century.. and I look foreword to each and every word that flows from your keyboard.. I love the way that you have written these characters.. they are sooooo much Tolkien with your distinctive flair.. I wish that I could get them all in book form.. you are one of the writers that I wish could just make a book. you are in my opinion.. (for whatever that is worth) worthy to be in print with these stories.. there is something wonderful about your characterizations.. please keep up the good work..and thank you .. from the bottom of my heart..
Author's reply
I am truly honored, Finafyr. That you wish these could indeed be published....
I've felt that about some, particularly some of Baylor's works, a few more by Lindelea and Ariel and Tom Fairbairn (also known as Chip of Dale), and most recently by Primsong and Pipkin. Do read "Nothing of Note" by Primsong, as I think you will find it exceptional.
To be numbered with these is a great honor. Thank you indeed!
Kitty
· 3 August 2005
· Chapter 8: Road by Sea
That was a narrow escape for Aragorn at the haven. How lucky they found the snake-tokens first and drew the wrong conclusions. I loved it how he asked the boss for a confirmation he was already searched. A pity not all are able to do so - these guards are quite nasty.
Virubat got what he deserved for so many murders. After the familiar argument between Aragorn and Hardorn of course - sometimes I wonder how often they went through this over the years.
And the end was somehow fitting. It was good to know Aragorn has send them all the letters to help them a bit to defeat the Dark Lord and his spies.
Author's reply
Oh, I agree. And one gets working for one the type of person one deserves, I think. Corrupt ones such as Sauron will draw to his service those with orcish tempraments at the lowest levels, and that's the attitude shown by the lower guards, who have found easy profits in stealing from those they are supposed to be guarding. Nasty indeed, and yet I've always pictured Aragorn canny enough to figure out how to circumvent them.
I'm certain Aragorn and Hardorn must have repeated that argument many times, and suspect Hardorn would have won usually only when Aragorn was exceptionally ill, wounded, or exhausted.
And I'm certain Aragorn felt forewarned is forearmed, and that this consideration led him to send those dispatches which would be useful to the Farozi and his sons to their hands by the one best able to recognize their value.
aragorn_reader
· 3 August 2005
· Chapter 8: Road by Sea
Read this last night: absolutely delicious! *shivers with excitement*
Wonderful how the snake imagery worked in Aragorn's favor, and having sacrificed his star brooch.
Am still contemplating his warrior/healer roles and how difficult it must have been to reconcile those in one person, with the violence undercutting the healing.
Author's reply
It has long been said there are no true accidents, and I see this working for the safety of Aragorn. The watchers in the South are told to look for spies from among the Dunedain bearing star tokens, but not for the descendant of Barahir bearing a ring picturing two serpents; and so when they find two incidental items depicting serpents they assume in accordance with the cultures of Harad they and the ring are all depictions of Ghanset chosen out of honor for that one.
Aragorn was asked to sacrifice his star brooch, the sign he is a Ranger of Arnor and a physical tie to his unknown father and grandfather and who knows how many of the Chieftains of the Northern Dunedain before him, and so is saved from discovery. The Valar know what they are doing.
As for reconciling healer and warrior, I think he would come to see the warrior side of his heritage much in light of surgery--the removal of evil growths that the whole organism might live to fulfillment. But it wouldn't make it any the easier to order executions when he himself and those he personally guards are not in immediate danger; yet he knows such things from time to time must come and so he bears what he must.
Thanks for the thought-provoking observations.
Dreamflower
· 2 August 2005
· Chapter 8: Road by Sea
This was marvelous!
I love the way that Aragorn dealt with the searching guards, and with the captain as well. Again, he told no real lies, but the truth cunningly concealed. And how fortuitous that the priest had seen to it that he did not carry the Star of the Dunedain with him!
I also enjoyed Hardorn's greeting of his cousin, and I appreciated the way in which they dealt with Virubat. I am sure Aragorn did wear that dagger to tempt him--much easier to kill in self-defense, than cold-bloodedly.
And the ending was great: now the Farozi is well aware of the Enemy's strategies, and for a good long time, at least, deal with them.
And now the stage is set for the next visit...
I look forward to his seeing once more the friends he has made during this journey.
Author's reply
Yes, Aragorn doesn't lie, yet doesn't let all the truth be known; and realizes what needs doing to protect himself.
Am not myself certain he wore the dagger so to tempt Virubat, but he certainly used the reaction properly.
I'm still certain that he would not easily take to killing in cold blood, even when it is necessary and so well deserved.
And now we await the second visit....
Kitty
· 2 August 2005
· Chapter 7: Heading Home
It is good to know Pe'elisiri doesn't want to spy any longer and has now another place where she is probably save. I loved it how the priest wanted Aragorn present during the questioning. That was a lot of trust to a stranger. But of course, he probably suspects something, even if he surely can't guess the truth. And I hope the Farozi and his family have now peace from Mordor for some time.
Rustovrid was quite the inquisitive boy, wasn't he? This interest in other people is a good thing for a future ambassador, I think.
*shakes head* Of course you are right, I had mixed up which of the two Haradrim was Rustovrid's father. I suppose I shouldn't so often read and review at work, with one eye at the door in case someone shows up who shouldn't catch me at SoA. It is not very good for the concentration ;-(
The rest was quite amusing, especially the 'haggling backwards', as Gimli put it in one of Dreamflowers fics. I certainly wouldn't have paid more than necessary for my pony, but I had of course not the healing of my father to be grateful for. And I loved it how they all wanted Aragorn to stay.
Now I hope you will tell us what happens with Virubat, and I look forward to a reunion of Aragorn with his Haradrim friends in the future!
Author's reply
Well, there are TWO visits this story is to be about. Hope you enjoy both.
Yes, I wanted for Pe'elisiri to be able to find a safe place where she could no longer be exploited. And the haggling backwards was fun to write as well. Gimli in Dreamflower's fic described it well.
Anyway, I'm working on the next few chapters and will post the next one later today. As for reading at work--I couldn't do that easily in the school district, and when I do that in my present job I'm not on the clock so they can't really complain about it. Mostly write from home, however.
Thanks again for reviewing so regularly. I appreciate it very much.
Tigger
· 2 August 2005
· Chapter 6: The Valley of the Sun
What a chapter!! I was completely facsinated by how you described the operation and how Aragorn uses both the respective herbs and the skills of someone trained in the art of hypnosis to combine the two for a Middle Earth version of general anesthesia. That very brief description of how it was done two stories back when Aragorn was "taking off" the hands of the Angmarians had me wondering just exactly how he pulled that off. Thanks for the more indepth fleshing out of that.
Loved all the omens and how the priest was able to tell what each one meant in regards to Aragorn. Especially the birds. Birds are very powerful creatures in many cultures and feature strongly in their mythology. Same w/the number combinations. Especially seven flowers for the Rightful Owner of the Seven Stars of the Palantiri. Nice touch. Same w/the Tale of Eärendil also being told in it's own fashion in Harad. Many cultures also share the same tales/myths. Just proves we really are much the same in many ways.
Knowing you, we'll be seeing Aragorn/Arathorn/etc's Ranger Star brooch again in the story. Just got a notice letting me know the next chapter's up. So, off I go to read. Looking forward to seeing what happens next. :o)
Author's reply
The art of divination from the study of the flight of birds is an ancient one which was reportedly very popular in Rome. Much less nasty than examining the entrails of sacrificial animals, and more in keeping, I think, with what would be preferred by the Lady of the Stars to occur within her temple precincts. And I felt she would be one of the older gods accepted by the Haradrim, perhaps the honoring of her going back to the earliest sailings of the Numenoreans to Middle Earth, and so her temple is plainer, more basic and less given to ostentation and flourishes.
As for the different lilies blooming--the idea that the seven bloom for the rightful Lord of the Palantiri and the princes who bore the seven stars of the Dunedain is a wonderful one. I'd seen it as a form of putting right--these are, obviously, the numbers of the rings of power, three for the Elves, seven for Dwarves, Nine for Men, One for the Immortals; but now the indication is that the Valar would see all brought to proper respect through the example Aragorn is to embody of obedience and proper rule and honor. It was through the love for the Lord of the White Tree that Elves and Dwarves at last gave up their ancient enmity and began working together in the White City, learning at last to cooperate, tolerate one another, honor one another's skills and gifts, and together bow out of Middle Earth's politics, leaving that to Mankind for good or ill. Nine great Kings of Men no longer roaming the world in spirit form, but one Lord standing above all teaching through his own example, ruling with justice, mercy, wisdom, respect, and, I hope, humor as well as love. A ruler followed not out of solely respect and/or fear of power displayed, but through Love of the Love he himself displays for all others.
Yes, I suspect that star will resurface eventually in the tale.
That many tales would be similar between the Dunedain and the Haradrim is indeed similar to what we know today from comparative mythology and religion studies.
Oh, dear, I see I'm going into lecture mode. Better let off before I bore all silly.
Thanks so much for the review--it is much appreciated.
Dreamflower
· 1 August 2005
· Chapter 7: Heading Home
Well, Aragorn's on his way now, as he said he would be. Of course, you have promised us a *second* visit, so I know this story's not over. *grin*
I enjoyed all the little practical details of leaving--I find it humorous that both Ma'osiri and his brother tried to recruit Aragorn. And I enjoyed the "haggling" over the horse. I still wish he could send the camel to Denethor, but I suppose he's right, the animal would not be very comfortable there. I also liked the way you took care of the Farozi's concubine spy. To enter the service of the temple would go a long way to assure her safety.
Will you be showing his reunion with Hardorn at the docks? Or will you go right on to the other half of the story?
Author's reply
Yes, it was nice to find a way to protect Pe'elisiri from being further used. And I think almost anyone who met Aragorn and realized his competence would wish to recruit him.
As for what's coming--HEH! Are you one who wishes to know what's to be set on the table before it's time? (SMILING GLEEFULLY)
Baggins Babe
· 1 August 2005
· Chapter 6: The Valley of the Sun
I just wanted to tell you how much I am enjoying this story, which gives us such an intriguing glimpse into Aragorn's life before we meet him in Bree. I have been fascinated by Ancient Egypt since I was tiny, and I found it fascinating to compare the various myths and gods with those of other cultures.
It is wonderful to see the similarities with those of Middle-earth.
Can't wait for the next chapter - your characters are so multi-dimensional and real.
Author's reply
It is an honor to have my readers express the belief my characters are believable individuals. I do try to make them so, but sometimes I feel I fall short.
It's fun to take aspects out of our world and apply them to Arda, and to make cultures that are both recognizable and yet unique at the same time. And it's also fun to speculate on what Aragorn's trip to Harad MIGHT have been like. I'd touched on his trip to Rhun in "The King's Commission," after all.
Thanks for the feedback.
utfrog98
· 1 August 2005
· Chapter 6: The Valley of the Sun
This chapter gave me cold chills! Your writing is now very sophisticated and skilled. Wonderful story.
Author's reply
It's nice to get the feeling that you find my writing has improved so, and love that you find it moving. Thanks for the feedback.
Kitty
· 1 August 2005
· Chapter 6: The Valley of the Sun
Ah, so Ambassador Rustovrid was the son of Ma'osiri! I thought he must be somehow from this family. It is so nice to see the characters again ;-)
The operation was very well described, and the way to anaesthetise the Farozi was quite fascinating. I am glad it turned out so well. And I loved the omens and how the priest interpreted them. Poor Aragorn must be quite confused about the brothers, but for someone who'd read your other fics it was so clear and I enjoyed the hint. And now we know why Aragorn is the only one ranger not to wear a star.
Another bit I loved was the comparing of the Gods. To see Seti and Morgoth alike was quite fitting, as far as I remember what I've read. And Osiri and Eärendil ... (too bad Aragorn couldn't say he was the brother of his foster father and his own ancestor, Ma'osiri would've thought him crazy). For me it was very lovely to see this comparison.
I enjoy this story more with each chapter!
Author's reply
I agree, it must have been tempting for Aragorn to have affirmed his relationship to Eärendil. I know I was strongly tempted to write it in, but as you pointed out, Ma'osiri would indeed have thought him crazy; and if he had then repeated the story anywhere where an agent of Mordor could hear, it would have blown Aragorn's cover and would have endangered the life of Ma'osiri that much the more.
Rustovrid is the son not of Ma'osiri, but of Bherevrid, a captain of the Farozi's private forces. But Ma'osiri, as you will find out in today's episode, has a special relationship with Bherevrid for good reason.
Thanks so much for all the faithful feedback.
Elemmíre
· 31 July 2005
· Chapter 6: The Valley of the Sun
Hoom hoom, very good! I liked the bit about the omens.
:),
Elemmíre
Author's reply
Hoom barum, glad you like it, and especially the omens! Thanks so much for the feedback!
Dreamflower
· 31 July 2005
· Chapter 6: The Valley of the Sun
Wow! This is just magnificent! The surgery was beautifully described, and the scene with the portents was masterful--I do love the knack you have for dropping hints that the reader can easily understand, but the characters do not, necessarily. The part about his brothers, for example, would only have meaning to one who has read "Fostering". Very nice!!
Author's reply
Yes, this must have Aragorn quite confused! And it is fun to think of omens and portents and how they might be read by one trained to read them. Can't remember the name of the type of divination done by watching the flight of birds, but know it was done, and was quite popular in ancient Rome. So, I sort of moved it south just a bit into Harad.
Added in the use of a hypnotic herb and the use of hypnosis as a form of anethesia--if they ever have to do another operation on me, this is what they'll undoubtedly have to do for me, as I'm horribly needlephobic with things gatting worse as I age rather than getting better.
Thanks for the quick feedback--you'd done a review before I managed to post this on the other sites where I post my stories.
Kitty
· 31 July 2005
· Chapter 5: An'Horubi
This is more and more intriguing. The family of the Farozi seems mostly to be decent people, and I begin to like them. No wonder they sent later the ambassador to take up diplomatic relations. And I think it would be amusing if one of them then still lives to meet the king ;-) Sohrabi is probably young enough for it. It would be a nice surprise for him, I think.
This will probably be Aragorn's first try to operate someone with cancer on his own, without help of Elrond? I suppose very few were able to do this so long ago, others than this great elven healer. It will be intriguing. But I hope there are no dire consequences for all of them. Aragorn's doubts are not easily to dismiss.
Can't wait to see how they will use the spies to their own advantage!
Author's reply
Once the identities of spies are known, they can be easily fed misinformation to the disadvantage of the enemy, and so I suspect these will be treated.
I would be surprised if Aragorn were not able to deal with the tumor after the experience he's had under Elrond. Of course, one never knows what might happen over the long run, of course.
You will learn that Ma'osiri had good reason to distance himself from Mordor, for Sauron's agents have sown the seeds of his growing distrust themselves. So it is, as Tolkien himself commented in LOTR, evil will often in the end causes damage to its own cause by seeking to do too much too soon. Or, to paraphrase Galadriel in BookVerse, often the very end evil seeks to avoid is brought about when those seeking to avert it go out of their way to attempt to do so.
Dreamflower
· 30 July 2005
· Chapter 5: An'Horubi
More and more intriguing. I find myself wondering what Aragorn will do with Virubat--I suppose that he will take him with him somehow. And now it looks as though he will operate on the Farozi's cancer--it's fortunate that he has been trained by Elrond--I'm sure no other healer of that time would have been able to do so.
The bit of poetry was beautiful, and seemed very authentic sounding.
I am eagerly looking forward to more.
Author's reply
Partly based on the Song of Songs, partly on translations from Egyptian hieroglyphic poetry; glad you find it authentic sounding. And of course it would be Elrond's protege trained to use the Healing Hands of the King who would be able to remove such a growth.
As for Virubat, I've already written his disposition, so you shall see what you shall see when we get that far.
Thanks so much for the feedback.