Lesser Ring by Larner
grumpy · 11 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Returns
What a nice chapter, not only did Aragorn get some more athelas, both I loved the return of his star, and who he cave it too.
Author's reply
Am so glad you like it, Grumpy! I so appreciate the feedback.
Baggins Babe · 11 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Returns
The last few chapters have been an incredible rollercoaster of stress and emotion - and I've loved every line of them! The bravery of the Farozi's grandson, almost sacrificing himself for his father, and the way Benai has been given the sword, which he will no doubt need when he returns to lead his people. I was on the edge of my seat hoping the boy and his father would survive - Harad will need these wise rulers if it is to thrive as a nation. The most wonderful part of this chapter was the communication between Aragorn and Frodo - how touching that there can be such a meeting of spirit, which I have always believed in. Beautifully imagined and written, Larner.
Author's reply
Apparently I hit the back key instead of the post key when I answered this yesterday. I like to think that wherever Aragorn goes he leaves behind an example of leadership and integrity that makes a tremendous impact on others. That he would be part of the healing of Ankhrabi was a given, I suppose; that Ma'osiri would be sent back was the grace given that insisted it be included. But more and more the land of Harad is being drawn into the new age of Middle Earth, and is finding that to keep the still somewhat tenuous balance it knows now it must tie itself more and more to the example of the North. Benai is being groomed to return to his land and serve and protect it, adding more ties to those already being established between the descendents of the Dunedain and Harad; and Aragorn is given the reward he needed at the moment while Frodo has one more grace to appreciate--a moment of shared wonder with one he loves who is afar off, and a shared touch that both need. As an Anglican, I believe in the "Communion of the Saints" where all are in fellowship with one another whether together or apart, in this realm or the next; certainly I've had moments when I've felt the loved presence of those I've loved and a stronger presence still; that now and then Aragorn and Frodo or one of the others who loved him would know such communion with Frodo seems just natural. The heart just seems to have to bridge such gaps.
Kitty · 10 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Returns
The lore of Arnor and Gondor and Númenor will be well known in Harad, or at least in certain circles of the Haradrim, after this visit. It is nice to see how interested they are in each other. I loved the visit to the temple of Neryet, the flower and dove omens, the falcon, and most of all, Aragorn’s vision and the return of his brooch. It was wonderful he could see Frodo for some moments and so full of joy at that! And although I’d loved to see Aragorn with his old brooch again, it was good he gave it to Ma’osiri. The little one was so brave and is worth of it. Oh, and I wonder if Eldamir has some foresight, too? How very thoughtful of him to send this packet of athelas, just after Aragorn used his last leaves to save Ma’osiri and Ankhrabi! As for the last chapter, I wonder if Setra’amun is completely sane? I know some people are like this, but for me it is a bit insane. To be honest, I am quite curious what Sohrabi will do with him.
Author's reply
I think that, from time to time, Aragorn and Frodo just need a little brotherly time together, even if it's just in a momentary vision. And that they'd be granted such an occasion seemed possible, so I love to find where I can slip such in where it is appropriate. And for Aragorn to have reassurance Frodo is knowing healing there just seems so right. As for Eldamir, perhaps not so much foresight as experience with his sovereign and colleague within the Houses of Healing in Minas Anor, knowing that the King will find himself using up what he has and wanting to make certain he isn't left too short! As for Setra'amun--he's partly patterned on family members and friends who are bipolar. To try to appreciate the thought processes of someone who is mentally ill in this way can be mind-boggling. I've tried to reason with such folk when they are out of sync, and it is very difficult. I also find it in fanatical nonsupporters in a court case I follow on the web--you can face them with all the evidence there is that the crime wasn't committed as presented by police and prosecution, and they keep going back to one little emotional detail that they have glommed onto that makes it okay for the courts to have convicted three probably innocent guys, and you are left shaking your head, wondering, "HUH?" Other day I even asked one of them what color the sky was in the world he inhabited--he responded "Purple." As for what Sohrabi will do with him--I think you will find it shocking and all too appropriate.
Grumpy · 10 September 2005 · Chapter 36: Healings and Betrayals
Great chapters, and I still have one more to read. So much exictment, pain and healing. I love the part, where the two shining figures turn the boy about, and gave him a push back towards Aragorn.
Author's reply
Yes, I think the Lords of the Halls of Mandos are amused and pleased to send one small boy back to Middle Earth, realizing Harad needs him right now. Thanks so much for the feedback, Grumpy.
Bodkin · 10 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Returns
Good thing Arwen was there (and the Eagle) or Ma’osiri wouldn't have made it. But now that he has, he seems to be a great symbol of better things to come. Bound in love with lords of the north and with Benai to the south. I hope his twin doesn't become disaffected like Sa’Harpelamun's. It can't be easy being twin to a hero. But he has good parents and good examples round him, so probably not. Glad to see the stock of athelas has been replenished.
Author's reply
As you say, it's not easy growing up in the shadow of those who are heroes, but I think Ankhrabi's got a good head on his shoulders, and that the boys have a good relationship they'll build on as time goes on. Where the King of Gondor and Arnor goes, will the Valar's messengers be too far behind? And even the Dunedain of Camaloa know the significance of the Great Eagles, which may indicate not all of them might nest in the Misty Mountains.... Gonna leave that one an open question for a while, I think. As for the athelas, I suspect that Eldamir, after ten years working alongside his King might have an excellent feel for how quickly he's likely to use up his stock of athelas and other commonly used herbs. So glad you've been following it all and giving so much feedback. You know how much it is appreciated.
harrowcat · 10 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Returns
Oh happy sigh to take me through the day. What gifts and imbued with so much meaning. I love the idea that the original Elessar Gem was found in Saruman's hoard. Where did this idea come from - if it is original Larner then it it is inspired! Or is it from the Prof and in something I haven't read? (Far too much I confess.) And I am glad that Aragorn has re-stocked his Athelas. The way you (and other writers) make him get through it it is amazing there is any left in Middle-Earth.
Author's reply
The finding of the original Star of Elendil gem in Saruman's hoard is from Tolkien's Unfinished Tales. Also found in that hoard was the locket that Isildur carried the Ring in--there the film followed the pattern for Frodo rather than going into UT. Can't remember where he had the one in which he gives one of the Star of Elendil gems to Sam, but if you find that in a fan-fic that was one from Tolkien himself, too. As for the athelas stocks in Middle Earth--the kingsfoil plants tend to grow where the Dunedain settled, and I've made Sam one who now purposely cultivates it in Arnor. Knowing that Aragorn uses athelas and it answers to the King's hand, I strongly suspect it would now be a staple in any herb gardens that serve wherever the King is likely to go in Gondor and Arnor now. Thanks so much for all the feedback!
Radbooks · 10 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Returns
I'm so glad that they are back in Thetos and at least somewhat more protected for awhile. Though I am somewhat concerned about the package of athelas leaves that Aragorn just received. I'm glad he has it, but it does raise questions on whether or not he will need it again. Though hopefully it will just need to be used for the two who are currently injured. The story of Benai's sword was interesting, I had wondered at the story behind it because of the star on it. I didn't think that another man from the north would have traveled there and so that was a touching story. It's going to be interesting to see what will happen with Benai and his people and the slavers or other tribes/people around them. I would imagine that Aragorn would help as Benai's kinsman and lord - he would have a duty to see that they not be enslaved or threatened, etc. So it will all be very interesting to see how it all plays out in the long run. It is so far from Gondor though and it will be hard to help them in that sense. I liked that Aragorn gave his star to the boy and it makes you wonder what will happen to the boy as he grows. He has a neat heart and will someday make a good Farozi and the chances are that Aragorn will still be the king in Gondor when he is in power in Harad so it will be interesting how that would all work out. Great job once again!
Author's reply
I suspect the athelas were sent by Eldamir on a schedule he's worked out as to how often Aragorn is likely to have gone through his known stock. Aragorn would want them fairly fresh, and so probably every two or three weeks the herbalists for the HoH would try to see to it he had enough on hand for what emergencies he might come up against. And again Aragorn's example is reinforcing for others that there is another way than totalitarianism that can work and is better for everyone. The reinforcements Benai gets from Gondor will be mostly moral support, I suspect, as well as possibly some gifts of armaments and trainers and some physical help. But Benai is going to go home intent on shutting down the G'bani slavers, I'm certain. Wish we could do that in Africa now. Thanks so much for the feedback.
lindahoyland · 9 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Returns
I'm glad that Aragorn has more athelas,I was getting worried what he would do if anything else happened ! I agree the villian is quite mad,much as my Mahrod was save he was a psychopath. I love all the spiritual imagery in your work,I was expecting the brooch to turn up again. I liked the way Aragorn cares for the wounded boy on the way back. I'm glad I'm following this on SOA as the other site are still not sending me alerts !
Author's reply
Sorry the other site is being less than helpful. How sad! Yes, the brooch showed up again, and I hope went where it was needed, to one who will need that guidance when his day to follow his father comes at last. And Eldamir must have a good sense of what Aragorn is likely to need as time passes--they've been working side by side now for ten years, after all! Thanks so much for following this here.
Tigger · 9 September 2005 · Chapter 38: Returns
Oh Larner...That breathtakingly beautiful. Aragorn and Frodo got to see one another and touch for a brief moment. It choked me up. Wow!! And the little Prince was given Aragorn's brooch. What a lovely gift. Especially considering it was Arathorn's before it was Aragorn's. Thank goodness they all got back to Thetos w/nothing else happening. I'm assuming tomorrow will be judgement day for those who took part in the ambush. If so, then Eldamar's sending of the athelas could not be better timed. Aragorn's going to need it. As always, looking forward to the next chapter. :o)
Author's reply
I'm not certain how much Aragorn will need the athelas right now--not, at least for himself. This is Harad's business, although I think you will find the punishment planned for Setra'amun will be most appropriate. And I think that the moment shared with Frodo was worth more than a brooch he'd given long ago to Aragorn at the moment.
Radbooks · 9 September 2005 · Chapter 37: Questions Asked
That poor misguided man - who deceived himself by thinking he was smarter than others. Never thinking that a simple answer... simple truth was enough. That it was too easy and there must be something more, something more complex and that others were too foolish not to keeping looking for the 'real' truth. People like that are scary! And, as you described him earlier - fanatical. I liked how Aragorn stopped the questioning and sort of turned it back on Setra'amun and made him admit that he was doing exactly what he was accusing the Farozi of doing - having the power of life and death over people. Then Eomer asking all the questions about the supposedly bad things the Farozi was doing and Setra'amun couldn't come up with even one thing. I hadn't realized that he was the Farozi's nephew, though maybe it hadn't come up earlier when he was first introduced.
Author's reply
I'd indicated that the father of Setra'amun and Harpelamun was one of the youngest sons of An'Horubi who'd been taken by the agents of the red temple. It was rather a throwaway, I think, and perhaps its significance wouldn't easily be recognized by those who by this time have forgotten about An'Horubi and the concubines he was encouraged to take by Virubat and Maruset. Yes, those who seek to fabricate truths for themselves to justify their actions and who become fanatical about it are always dangerous. It was precisely how Hitler and his folk justified all their actions, to taking over Germany, to killing the disabled, Jews, Gypsies, Poles, and thousands even of their own people, and justifying their attacks on everyone else. And it's the way in which fanatics today justify bombing buildings and assassinating whom they please. They always are convinced their own logic is true--for themselves, at least, but never for anyone else. Thanks for responding.
lindahoyland · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 36: Healings and Betrayals
I forgot to say just how much I liked the way that Faramir,Eowyn and Eomer comfort Aragorn.This is my very favourite chapter.The eagles were wonderful too.I've just read it a second time as there was so much in it !Benai is a very likeable character.
Author's reply
Who heals the healer when the healer needs healing and is just about exhausted from a fight, adrenalin rush, a long ride each way, one way at speed with a wounded man in his arms and having to keep the pressure on, a complicated lealing, and then realizing he, himself was wounded? Yes, I think those who have known his touch personally and have seen firsthand what he's done in the past would be there for him, particularly Eowyn, who has taken up healing after all. So glad you enjoyed this chapter. The Valar helps those who seek to aid the world to be a better place, I think; and I believe Harad needs both Ankhrabi and Ma'osiri in the coming times. Thanks so much for the feedback.
lindahoyland · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 37: Questions Asked
Setra’amun is a very interesting and evil villain. I have to say I much prefer the way he was treated than the other plotters,as you make me want to execute him myself ! This is a truly gripping story,which I eagerly await each update of.
Author's reply
The proper end for Setra'amun, I fear, isn't likely to be nice. Personally I don't see him as evil as Mertirion, but certainly he is as dangerous right now, for he's given himself over to trying to remake the reality of the world in his mind, thus giving him any excuse to do as he pleases and justify it in his own mind. I suspect he's bipolar (as he's partially based on one who IS bipolarm at least); and anyone who's dealt with someone who is bipolar can tell you it is a condition that can be hell to live with in one who won't accept treatment.
harrowcat · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 37: Questions Asked
Sorry I haven't been as faithful a reviewer as I would like for this story Larner. It's not lack of interest as I am following your twists and turns avidly. It is lack of time, even this early into my working year and lack of energy, which is worrying! I find fanatics impossible to understand be they religious, political or emotional - with the possible exception of LOTR fans of course! But you seem to be able to get into their minds and expose what makes them tick. Didn't someone once say 'all it takes for evil to flourish is for good men to do nothing'? I am glad that our good 'men! (women, hobbits, elves, Dwarves) are busy and active. I especially loved your eye-opening discussion about prejudice and the need to educate the whole community! Yea!
Author's reply
The special ed teacher in me does tend to come out, doesn't it? And here we do indeed have the people around the intrigue taking an active part in making certain it doesn't spread further. As for trying to understand fanatics, I still have my moments of wonder as well. I follow a court case where the guilty verdicts given to three young men is still incomprehensible to me, particuarly as the physical evidence indicates the victims could not have died where and how they are represented to have died. Yet those who insist the verdicts are just keep insisting that white is black, that stagnant water flows sufficiently to wash away blood, and that individuals who have been heavily bludgeoned and stabbed couldn't have bled as heavily as we keep trying to point out. I stand amazed as I try to understand the working of their minds.
Tigger · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 37: Questions Asked
First off, I'm so sorry I haven't reviewed the last few chapters. I've been busy worrying about friends in New Orleans and also trying to find out how I can help from here at home. Thankfully they're okay and they've got their fingers crossed their home is too. Wow...Such powerful twists and turns the last few chapters. It would have disheartening for Aragorn and all of the Northern Party to realize there were those who wished for Sauron to still be there. Sadly, evil begets evil and it always will. There will always be those wishing for power over all. That's when it is most important for light and hope to be shown. Poor little Prince, but happy he was able to be healed by both Aragorn and Arwen. This ambush will serve to do the opposite of what was hoped. Instead of sowing dissent, it will serve to strengthen the bonds of Gondor/Arnor and Harad instead. Setra'amun is not only an idiot, but a fanatical idiot. The most dangerous kind. You can't reason w/people like that sadly. When the Farozi disowned him should have given him a wake up call, but he's too far gone to even care. I'm assuming for attempted murder and attempted murder of the ruler of Harad and visiting rulers to Harad will not end up in simple hard labour. Will this end up being another execution Aragorn will have met out? I hope not. Once again, you're keeping us on the edge of our seats. As always, looking forward to the next installment.
Author's reply
So many of us are worried about friends and fellow-countryment displaced and still missing down in the Gulf area. One guy was heading for Houston, saying he'd had enough of hurricanes, apparently unaware Houston, also has been hit in the past with such things. Fanatics are always difficult to deal with, and that is what our folk are facing now--not just fanatics but fuzzy thinking leading to the impression the fuzzy thinkers can outthink others generally. It's a difficult situation to deal with, I know from experience. And again the opposite has happened from Setra'amun's intent--now there is indeed more reason for those from Harad and Gondor/Arnor/Rohan to trust one another, more reasons to strengthen the alliances already made. And, in the end, all of Middle Earth is strengthened as more are aligned with light rather than the Shadow. Thanks so much for reviewing, and glad you are all right.
Bodkin · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 37: Questions Asked
Setra’amun is an idiot. So obsessed with his own cleverness that all he can admire is the gleam of his own sparkling intellect. But like a lot of very clever people, he is completely lacking in empathy. A waste. But there you are.
Author's reply
Oh, I know. When a young teen my stepson was much the same, the same certainty that the truths he thought he'd found were profound when in reality they were wish-fulfillment. Found myself writing the experience of that time, the twisted logic which failed to recognize its own inconsistencies, into the story. Now the Kid looks back on what he was like then with a shake of his head for the idiot he was at the time, and he's now been known to counsel others who prove to be prone to the same fuzzy logic. It was so wonderful to see his great empathy return to him, and to see it grow to this day. Thanks so for appreciating it!
Kitty · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 36: Healings and Betrayals
After reading your last response and the title of this chapter, I was tempted to start reading at the end of the chapter, I was so anxious! What a moving chapter! And so many wonderful parts (even if some had me on the edge of my chair!) How Aragorn and Arwen visited the infirmary and discovered the poisoned childs was a surprise. I was so glad they found out who did this! And I hope you do tell us what happened to the father of the children - and how their bad grandmother will going to be punished. It was really touching how Berevrion, Haleth and Pippin gave the Farozi and his family their mails, knowing an assault would come! Another detail I enjoyed was how Rustovrid got ahead to slip behind the enemy. He can't deny his origin. Imagine an ambassador of our modern time doing something like this! Then you scared me to death! Honestly, I thought Ma'osiri dead, and was so sorry for the boy. It was so moving how he tried to protect his Baba and sacrificed himself without thought! He is a sweet, brave little boy, and I am so glad you didn't kill him. The same goes for Ankhrabi. Oh, and I loved the idea the great eagles came to help! Another connection to the dreams. Hm ... didn't you say somewhere Aragorn has a special connection to people he has healed? If I remember that correctly, it should prove well for the relationship between Gondor and Harad in the future, after he has drawn back both the future Farozis from death. But poor Aragorn - he must be totally exhausted! It says something that he didn't even notice his own injury because he was so busy healing Ankhrabi. I was so glad the others were there for him then - Éomer, Faramir, Éowyn ... And it was telling again he thought more of the others, even the not injured family members of the Farozi, than of himself when he awoke. Once again he went to the little boy and spent his already dwindling strength for another. By the way, that was wonderful written, including the last remark of the Shining One to Aragorn. I think the Haradrim will adore him after this ;-)
Author's reply
He is one who draws the honorable to him, and precisely because he himself is the height of honor. This is why I've long thought of him and Frodo as brothers on a spiritual level, for both did this. It is with reason that the White Tree sprang up only when the time came for him to look to come south, to renew the kingship and take to himself the Winged Crown and the Sceptre, reuniting the lands of the Dunedain. Thank you for appreciating the thought that went into the chapters. I'd thought myself that Ma'osiri was dead until I found Benai summoning Aragorn to the side of Arwen, and found why Benai had taken the last leaf of athelas....
Radbooks · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 36: Healings and Betrayals
Wow, oh wow! How to describe this chapter. It was so moving, Larner. It moved me to tears here. The first time when Aragorn and Arwen were dealing with the children who had been poisoned... their fury and then the mother's anguish. Then the sacrifice of the two men and Pippin to give up their mail so that others could be protected and Aragorn's response to them. The boy taking an arrow for his father like that and then wanting Aragorn to heal him, somehow knowing that his own wound was fatal. Aragorn so trusting his men to deal with the enemy so that he could focus on healing. Eomer and Faramir holding Aragorn's hands and just being there for him as he passed out from the pain of his own injury. Eowyn wiping Aragorn's face after he wept. Knowing that Arwen had sat there for HOURS holding death back for the boy until Aragorn could come and help her and then of course when they were able to call him back to life - or to have him returned since it obviously wasn't his time to go! :) And then the utter, utter exhaustion of Aragorn and Arwen and the care of Benai and Avrieth. As I said, incredibly moving. I can't wait to see what happens to the men that attacked them, though I doubt if a lot of mercy will be extended to them when you attack a party like that.
Author's reply
It was pointed out earlier by one of you who reviewed the chapter in which the Farozi visited Aragorn's folk in their quarters that those who came on this journey to Harad came as an extended family, and certainly that is true. All here have seen Aragorn put himself at the forefront of the fight to protect them and their lands and peoples. All have learned to follow his example. All have seen and often been the recipient of his healing touch. Now he is the midst of a firefight, and he must make the decision to heal now when he can, or to fight, and probably lose the two most in need of his gift--and he gives over the fight to others to serve as healer as only he within the company can. And the others do what they can for him as well, being there for him as he has been there ever for them. I am so glad you appreciate seeing that. I think all have had their respect for him increased, and a good deal of good will has been born between the two nations which had formerly been enemies. When you fight evil, it's often best done without swords.... Thanks for the feedback. I pray for all who are still recovering from Katrina, and hope many can return to us soon.
lindahoyland · 7 September 2005 · Chapter 36: Healings and Betrayals
This chapter was just wonderful,you show Aragorn at his very best with all the wonder power and greatness he has,and yet very human toowith the frailty we all share. I just love your healing chapters and when you show good triumphing over evil with a lovely twist. A friend who was reading my stories was grumbling about Aragorn being so hands on,but I love reading and writing him that way and showing him as a man as well as a KIng. Thank you for not minding about the athelas,and do feel free to use any idea of mine that might inspire you.
Author's reply
Would your friend be happier with a King who did nothing but sit on his throne every day and makes great judgments and does nothing on his own any more? I think, personally, that Aragorn would hate such a life with a passion--I know I would. He's the best of the heirs of Elendil to date, with the stamina of Isildur without falling to the same lures; the courage of Earnur but with both more common sense and with a love of beauty Earnur couldn't find. He and Faramir make good partners--both capable, both leaders of men, but who are also both capable of keeping things in proper perspective. I suspect Aragorn actually enjoys fighting more than Faramir does, but doesn't enjoy killing. He does what he must, and will train his son to do what he must. He will not leave his heir believing that there's no maintenance that might need being done; Eldarion will be as consumate a warrior as his father, although he will probably be more involved in diplomatic and managerial tasks than his father was. But, when the push comes to shove, the Telcontar Kings will fight for what needs to be fought for.
Amy · 7 September 2005 · Chapter 36: Healings and Betrayals
This chapter is so moving, Larner. I'm sorry that I've been too busy to leave the kind of review I'd like, but I wanted to let you know that I'm still reading and squeeing when I see another update. I'm trying to read carefully to keep up with your plot twists. I really enjoy your road trip stories, esp. when Arwen and the hobbits get a chance to see new lands, and Harad is even more exciting than I imagined it would be.
Author's reply
I think that almost all of them could do with a dose of dullness right now, though, don't you? ;-p And I'm glad you enjoy seeing folk learning about other cultures and seeing new places. As for thinking of them as "road trips"--I find myself singing "We're off on the Road to Morocco...." Bing and Bob might enjoy themselves in Middle Earth, don't you think? I'll have to consider doing that as an AU at some far time. Where would I place Dorothy Lamour, do you think? Thanks so much for following the story and enjoying it so.
Bodkin · 7 September 2005 · Chapter 36: Healings and Betrayals
Goodness - that was a surprise. I am glad the child was sent back. But Aragorn and Arwen must be desperately in need of rest now. And they need more athelas. This is a very interesting and complex society!
Author's reply
I'm glad I've been able to make it both interesting and complex, and thus more real in the long run. I prefer to think of them as real cultures, with all the strenghths and weaknesses seen in our cultures today. And, yes, they truly need more athelas now. That the Queen of Gondor is also descended from Earendil is a handy thing, as is the realization that the Great Eagles sometimes are sent at times of great need. That the child would be willing to offer himself for his father after what he'd heard the previous day seemed logical, as well as the realization Harad needs such selflessness right now if it is to move into the Fourth Age as an equal to Gondor and Rohan. Thanks so much for the feedback.
Kitty · 7 September 2005 · Chapter 35: Omens and Dreams
I don't like these dreams, not at all! Now I am very worried about Sohrabi, Ankhrabi and Benai, and maybe some of the Rangers, knowing the others still lived many years later. You don't intend to kill one of them, do you? Maybe the sword Aragorn found there is a better omen? I look forward to the next update(s) with some anxiety! Your little brother certainly knew how to get rid of his clothes, LOL! To throw them in the duckpond ... *giggles* ... I suppose his Mom and sisters had a lot to do with recollecting them!
Author's reply
The answer to that has already been posted, my friend, and I hope it doesn't disturb you too much. You are right to be concerned by them. As for my little brother and his clothes--we were able to get the clothing back okay, but the shoes were lost until the height of summer when the pond finally dried up. It was interesting dealing with Little Bro at times, you know. Thanks for the feedback.
Radbooks · 7 September 2005 · Chapter 35: Omens and Dreams
Oh, this is scary stuff and I don't like it at all. Makes me shiver... and yet I can't wait to see what is going to happen! :) It's so sad how people still are so attracted to evil even when it's been defeated like that. I know it happens all the time - mostly for the power, but it's so heartbreaking because the average, everyday people are the ones that get hurt most by it. I felt so for Aragorn and you could just sense his weariness that all of their hard work and the things they had suffered and still evil could come back. I remember in Return of the King when they were deciding to march on the black gate, Gandalf said something to the effect that evil would come back eventually, but they were only responsible for dealing with what was there right now. But for Aragorn to see it so quickly and to know that his friend, the Farozi, was going to have to deal with it was just hard. And you know that he doesn't want to get caught up in it, but he fears that he might - or his son might. It will be interesting to see what this young priest will be doing in Minas Arnor. Anyway, looking forward to the next chapter!
Author's reply
Evil is always there, and we must always fight it. Hope you are reassured by today's chapter.
Anonymous · 7 September 2005 · Chapter 35: Omens and Dreams
Ooh, I love how the ominous sign of the vulture is insinuated between the happy talk of Arwen and the doves, and meeting Benai, and yet is still so striking! I rather hope Aragorn has to deal with whatever danger the vulture presages himself. I think he would prefer that to one who close to him intercepting it.
Author's reply
That is coming up tomorrow, the matter of the vulture. Aragorn has to deal with it, but I don't think you really want to see him having to intercept it himself. Glad you find the imagery appropriate.
lindahoyland · 6 September 2005 · Chapter 35: Omens and Dreams
This was a truly fascinating chapter.I like the relationship of Aragorn with the priest and the symbolism of the birds is wonderful. I like to see the vulture as the evil doers. Many thanks for all your kind reviews of my story.I'm so pleased you are enjoying it and hope you did not mind that I used your idea of Aragorn needing athelas after an execution.I wanted him to use it on Faramir and then the image jumped in my head,he needed it as much !
Author's reply
As much as we are inspired from one another and as much I have incorporated images from others into my own work, don't think you have to ask. That's just a possible and very logical use of the athelas from what I can tell, which is why I tend to use it. I'm glad the use of the vultures as a symbol of impending evil works apparently for you and others. Actually, for the ancient Egyptians vultures were the sign of one of the positive gods, along with the cobra, which was why Nekbeth the vulture was pictured with the cobra on the Double Crown.
Kitty · 6 September 2005 · Chapter 34: Questions of Succession
Poor Pippin, I can understand him so well. For someone who has not lived for so long in a country controlled through Mordor, it is very hard to understand why some people want the time of Sauron back. I hope this young fanatic doesn't try to hurt someone or something like this! I'm a bit suspicious. So, the Farozi appreciates Éowyn :) And her try to get her son dressed was fun. In this heat it is no wonder little Elboron didn't want clothes. Another part I liked was the singing of the Lay. This exchange between the cultures is encouraging. And our friends were able to held their ground in wrestling, too. I love it how realistic Aragorn is about his own possibilities. But the end was a bit sad. Somehow I am thinking the same as Ankhrabi - I don't want the Farozi to die any time soon, I came to love him! (Well, that goes for all of them ...) And I am *very* glad Ankhrabi doesn't have to kill someone then, although it was a good idea to use at least a criminal for this purpose. But a ritual without bloodshed would be preferable. I am truly amazed about all the details you're weaving in this fic!
Author's reply
Someone in Harad needs to appreciate Eowyn's form of femininity! Have been reading The Inklings, a description of the group to which Tolkien, Lewis, and Charles Williams all belonged at Oxford, and have come to the part where the author examines the strong feelings toward relationships that various members, but particularly Tolkien and Lewis, held. That men and women could have similar relationships to men and other men was something these two both didn't truly realize for much of their lives. I found myself wanting to counter that somewhat, for I truly feel that Faramir and Eowyn would have found themselves in a warmer, more equal relationship, both keen warriors who'd proven themselves, both drawn back from death by the same hand, both coming to realize their relationship to the other in response to the affections each held for the King Returned. And I can see a small toddler resisting being dressed in such heat. My own little brother was a nature's baby by his own choice till he was three, at which time he finally agreed to stay clad--until then in the summer the clothes would come off again as quickly as he could get free of Mommy and fussy older sisters, and often they would end up being flung into the lilac bushes off the porch, until he started to take them further afield and threw them into the large duckpond on the property. As for the rites insisted upon by Mordor--I would think Sauron would have wished to have gained some level of personal power from them, and that he would have those becoming rulers under him see themselves as corrupted by them, tying their own fate to his. That An'Ma'osiri and An'Sohrabi should have sought to distance themselves from such a rite by making it an act of justice instead of gratuitous violence alone, and should have invoked the Guide of the Dead and the great Judge of the Soul instead of Sauron I see as a part of their continued distancing of themselves and the post of the Farozi from Sauron's party and control. By encouraging the betrayal of An'Horubi's younger son, Sauron himself managed to lose any loyalty from the house of the Farozi and from his heirs. And again the Haradrim are learning how the Northerners express themselves and how they feel about those who assisted in the fall of Mordor and its dread lord. Thanks so much for responding.