The Acceptable Sacrifice by Larner
Queen Galadriel · 28 January 2006 · Chapter 77: 77: Lobelia's Redemption
I'm glad poor, dear old Lobelia found a peaceful end. I think she deserves it. Hmmm, think I'll go back and compare this chapter to the first and see which is shorter. :) Sorry, I shouldn't tease, but I just couldn't resist. :) God bless, Galadriel
Author's reply
I, too, like to think her ending was better than so much of her living. And the first chapter is shorter--I already checked GRINNING
Andrea · 28 January 2006 · Chapter 76: 76: A Dwarf's Touch, and Shadows
What a contrast between the wonderful work Gimli did at Bag End and the desolate state it was in when the ruffians left. It is as if they did everything to destroy Frodo's home beyond repair, and all only for one purpose: to show him their deep hatred for what he had done with the Ring. But hobbits don't give up so easily and Gimli's observations of their fine workmanship show us in detail how they rebuild their homes. And the dwarf joins them in their work to let Bag End look better than it ever has. I particularly liked the carvings around the mantlepiece. “I hope you’ll accept your invitation also, Frodo Baggins. If anyone ever deserved it, it’s you, far more than me.” I loved the conversation between Gimli and Frodo and the honesty that lies in Gimli's words. Maybe he helped Frodo to make the last decision.
Author's reply
Sharkey had wanted to leave Frodo without a hope of having things anywhere near what he'd remember, and as you pointed out to punish him for his courtesy on the road as well as the loss of the Ring. Saruman lost all hope at becoming the "guiding light" for Middle Earth when the Ring went into the fire. And am so glad you like the carvings. I think this is just one more of the events which in the end helped Frodo make the final decision.
Linda Hoyland · 28 January 2006 · Chapter 76: 76: A Dwarf's Touch, and Shadows
It is a nice thought that Gimli visited the Shire.I can well believe that Aragorn would be furious when he learned what had happened.
Author's reply
As Dwarves were not affected by the ban on Men entering the Shire, I think Gimli made the perfect one to bring the larger things left behind in Gondor; and that he'd help in the reconstruction of Bag End as he could seemed logical. And I agree--Aragorn was undoubtedly upset for Frodo when he learned how specifically Frodo and those close to him were targeted.
Bodkin · 28 January 2006 · Chapter 76: 76: A Dwarf's Touch, and Shadows
It's good to see Gimli in the Shire! He makes a good go-between to make contact with both Frodo and Aragorn. And his words on accepting the place on the ship would probably mean more to Frodo that anyone else's. It would be difficult to go back to Bag End, I think, knowing it had been systematically destroyed out of sheer viciousness. I'm not sure that even its loving repair could quite wipe out the feeling of contamination. Quite a lot of the Shirefolk are determinedly wearing blinkers - but some of them are beginning to understand more.
Author's reply
Of the Fellowship, I think Gimli would be most easily accepted, and indeed helps both Frodo and Aragorn to know what's happening in the other place. And you are right--that Gimli is accepting his own grace will help Frodo to accept the gift offered him. I know what you mean about the feeling of contamination; but love can cancel out a good deal of the feeling of violation. And, yes, some are beginning to open themselves to understanding.
French Pony · 27 January 2006 · Chapter 76: 76: A Dwarf's Touch, and Shadows
Yay for Gimli! He just got right to work, didn't he? I'm sure the Hobbits were happy to have him helping, and his assistance probably meant that Bag End was finished much sooner than it would otherwise have been. In fact, I'll bet it looked better than it did before, since a Dwarf worked on it with such love and care. I think Aragorn is just going to have to face up to the fact that you can't force somebody to believe something. Merry and Pippin's parents are in deep denial, probably shielding themselves from a reality they can't bear to face, and they will not understand until they are full ready and willing to do so.
Author's reply
Yes, we have the best of the best to see to the stonework here, and he's certainly caught the attention of one young Hobbit who one day will approach a sculptor from Gondor in the hopes of learning to do what he's seen Gimli do, added to what he learns Frodo's father did.
shirebound · 27 January 2006 · Chapter 76: 76: A Dwarf's Touch, and Shadows
“Let those who come after know the Ringbearers rested here,” he grunted as he finished. What a lovely, tender scene between Gimli and Frodo. And I *do* hope the King writes a letter! *hugs Frodo*
Author's reply
All who truly know Frodo love and honor him, and Gimli also wishes to encourage Frodo to accept his options as well. And he wants, I think, to leave the marks of honor for those who have eyes to see may know Frodo and Sam went this way. The question if Aragorn writes another letter, will Paladin understand or accept it more than what has already been written and they've tried to tell him.
Antane · 27 January 2006 · Chapter 76: 76: A Dwarf's Touch, and Shadows
That conversation between Frodo and Gimli was surprising and interesting. I'm glad Frodo was able to have a good cry with his friend. The wounds are so deep though, so very deep... Decide, darling, decide to leave and have some peace. I wish it could be done in the Shire, but another home awaits you. Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
The wounds are deep indeed, and Gimli also tries his best to convince Frodo to accept the one option which offers him hope of healing.
Queen Galadriel · 27 January 2006 · Chapter 76: 76: A Dwarf's Touch, and Shadows
*sigh* Frodo certainly did a pretty good job at hiding most of his illness from the Cottons. That's a horrible feeling, to be suffering and feel like you have to hide it, I know it is. I don't think poor Frodo realises that so many worry for him because they love him, and that sometimes hiding it like that can only make it worse. But I'd probably do the same thing, if I could. And I love the way you write Gimli-very true to canon! He acts so tough, but he's got a heart of gold. And the image of him grinning foolishly after being kissed by a pretty hobbit lass is just hilarious! *snickers* God bless, Galadriel
Author's reply
Yes, Frodo tries to hide his condition, but isn't quite as capable at doing so as he thinks. And so glad you like how Gimli is written, and his reaction to Marigold's kiss. I find I love the dear Dwarf.
harrowcat · 27 January 2006 · Chapter 76: 76: A Dwarf's Touch, and Shadows
It is great seeing the restoration of the Shire and even the disintergration of Frodo from Gimli's POV. I love the exchange between the two of them and the way he encourages him to accept the offer. His hand in the resoration of Bag End is beautiful too. Gimli's report to Aragorn is pained and painful. The four Travellers are beginining to make the new King known and it is Frodo who finally gets through to the Thainand the Master but Aragorn really must not be an absentee King in the North for too long. Mum is finally out of bed for an hour at a time. When she gets to four hours she can come home! And Jet will be glad to get his stitches out and his hood off on Monday!
Author's reply
Frodo's received the letter from Arwen, has from a couple sources Bilbo is accepting the offer, and now knows Gimli will go himself. They may not be allowed to urge him, but they will keep reminding him he has the option. Once he's seen the damage, I'm certain that Gimli would insist on doing his own part in the restoration, and that he'd leave his mark openly on the mantels. And indeed Aragorn is realizing he must make himself known to the peoples of the North. And the news of your mom is wonderful! My prayers for her are continuing. Am at my friend's place, and her guide dog Dinah sends a full Labrador wriggle, and offers to share her squeaky moose. Author Reply: And, from demeter d: My thoughts and prayers to Baggins Babe and Harrowcat for their family troubles.
Dreamflower · 27 January 2006 · Chapter 76: 76: A Dwarf's Touch, and Shadows
Oh, I'm *so* glad you showed Gimli's visit! I loved the descriptions of the floors and of the marvelous stonework he did! And what a wonderful conversation with little Pando. I wonder if it was seeing Gimli's carvings of the mantlepieces that put it into his head to become a sculptor? Seeing it all first-hand must have been hard for him, and realizing in what kind of shape Frodo was must have been harder. I really like the way you wrote the farewell between Gimli and Frodo--I don't see Dwarves as very huggy types, generally, so to be that way with Frodo shows a great depth of feeling. It's also clear his visit was for more than just delivering supplies and assissting with the restoration. He was also Aragorn's eyes and ears to let the King know how his hobbits were faring. I hope Aragorn does write to Merry's and Pippin's fathers (mine did) for even if the letters don't make them understand when first read, it would give them food for thought, and perhaps become a part of the process by which they eventually understand. But I do think that it is something he would have done, if for no other reason than to express his gratitude to them for all their sons had done.
Author's reply
I think that for Gimli Frodo and Sam are a part of the realm of Gondor, and deserve Gondor and Arnor's symbol on their floors and mantels. And I do think that seeing the carving of the mantelpieces might indeed have had an effect on Pando's decision to try sculpting, much as watching Ruvemir carving the sculpture of Pippin led Owain the same way. If you remember in The Hobbit, the pillars of Erebor were carved like tree trunks, and the corbeling was like the lower branches of the trees. That he'd use that motif on the mantels seemed appropriate, as well as tying himself and Frodo and Sam to the Elves as well. And I agree about his leavetaking from Frodo. Yes, Gimli is checking things out for their mutual friend. As to whether or not Aragorn will send another letter (he's already sent several) is still in question.
Radbooks · 26 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
It was interesting to see how quickly things are being restored physically around the Shire, though of course the trees and such will take a long time to grow. But houses and things are almost finished. All the missing people is so horrible! I hope they are just in Bree or somewhere like that. :( Rosie is a very practical hobbit lady and I like her. I want to shake Esmeralda and Eglantine and tell them to 'wake up!' How can they not understand?! They have heard so much from so many different people, they must be getting some idea of what their sons went through! Oh well, it will come eventually. :) I'm just sorry for the pain that Pippin especialy has to go through.
Author's reply
Yes, things are improving throughout the Shire, as the Master has told us all were willing to aid in the restoration, from young to old. It is the missing folk who will prove the hardest to accept, I think. Some are probably murdered, and some probably flown, and some simply still in hiding, not quite believing the rumors that it is all over. But that understanding will come, at least. I myself want to shake Eglantine, but feel with Esmeralda who DOES want to understand but who needs to hear it again more slowly so she can understand fully what has happened to her son, her former fosterling cousin, and her nephew, not to mention Sam. Mina has lived with Frodo, and look how long it has taken for her to learn and to accept, after all. But Pippin and the rest, including the parents, will come through this, after all. Thanks so much.
Radbooks · 26 January 2006 · Chapter 74: 74: A Mother's Love
I enjoyed this chapter and having Mina there to be with Frodo as he struggled there - for him to have someone there to 'mother' him for a time. That was nice for him. And they are all much too smart to not start figuring all of these things out! Bucca and Pippin's talk was good too, with Bucca being so very respectful and understanding of Frodo and his pain and sacrifice. Pippin must have appreciated having someone that finally accepted that what they were saying was the truth - after dealing with his parents unbelief.
Author's reply
It is a relief to be able to tell to those who no longer doubt, who are willing to accept. Yes, this has been a gift for Pippin, and a needed gift of information for Bucca, who with Aster and Mina will serve as the core of the everyday folk of the Shire who will begin to understand just what was given for all of them. At times we all need mothering, and Mina was able to stand for her cousin when Frodo needed her--and I think that through Mina Primula was able to be there, to help calm and soothe. And perhaps that moment of communion with her lost cousin helped her to begin to accept the full truth, as much as they can be brought to share at the moment, at least. Thanks so much for your responses, Radbooks.
Kitty · 26 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
Why have I the distinct feeling Sam now does know *every* tree in the Shire personally? *grin* But I have to admit, the hobbits have been very busy and restored astonishingly much of the Shire in very short time. Somehow it is quite ironic that Rosie, who's only a farmer's daughter, is more understanding and knowledgeable than the wives of Thain and Master and able to explain some things to them. And it is not only because she is Sam's sweetheart, for the other two are the mothers of Pippin and Merry, after all, and could have access zu the same information. I think Rosie *wants* to understand, how horrible it may be, and that is something in which particularly Eglantine is lacking. It's interesting to see their slow realization again, this time from another point of view.
Author's reply
I think that Sam, having replanted a good number of them and prepared to replant more, just DOES now know all the trees--those that survived and the new ones going into the ground. It's been a good deal of work, but the Master did indicate he had the help of every available Hobbit at his disposal, from the fresh ones of the littlest lads and lasses to the horny ones of the oldest gaffers and gammers. Esmeralda wants to understand, but Merry can't be brought to say much; Pippin's eager to tell, but his folks won't believe him. Which indeed leaves Rosie as the one who is able to tell each more; and possibly she, Mina, and Aster are the three ladies of the Shire who know the most as to what the four Travelers actually managed to do out there. The reluctant education of Eglantine Took does continue. Yes, ironic indeed.
Andrea · 26 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
"Mr. Merry and Mr. Pippin learned to fight with their swords, and learned to fight well, they did. Master Frodo and my Sam--well Mr. Merry says as they fought the Enemy with their wills, and managed to bring him down." Now, that is interesting! It must be frightening for the two hobbit ladies to think of their sons fighting against men and orcs. However, from their own experiences with the ruffians they are able to imagine such a fight. But how does one "fight" only with his will against the Dark Lord - to finally bring him down? I can very well imagine that Esme and Eglantine don't understand what Rosie tries to explain to them. They have seen from the looks of Frodo and Sam that they suffered a lot and are still suffering. But they are only beginning to comprehend what really happened on the journey. BTW, I have to agree with Dreamflower that I really would like to read more about Gimli's visit to the Shire!
Author's reply
The idea of fighting with ones will is a difficult one to encompass, probably. And I'm certainly glad that the two of them learned to do just that. You're right that this would be a most difficult concept to understand, and especially for Englantine. But hopefully they will in the end understand before Frodo leaves the Shire. Gimli's point of view comes in the next chapter, which I hope to post tomorrow.
Queen Galadriel · 26 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
This is so ironic: Rosie, the youngest and the one most likely to be looked down upon, if these matrons were the sort to sink so low, understands the most among them. And when she tries to explain, she completely bewilders the others. I wish she could have explained it-or somebody could have-I don't believe I'll ever forget that talk with Paladen, Eglantine, Esmeralda, and Saradoc in "For Eyes..." AT the time I read it I was dumbfounded. God bless, Galadriel
Author's reply
As Rosie is most open to understanding and in the end has the most access to all four of them at moments when they are probably most willing to confide, Rosie is best able to understand. But if the four haven't been able to explain fully to Esme and Lanti, it's unlikely Rosie or Mina will be able to do so, not that either fully understands what happened. They, too, also only have partial information at this time. And so glad you remember that conversation in "For Eyes to See as Can." It must have been so difficult for Frodo to tell what he did, and for the parents to hear the stories of their sons read from the Red Book--but at last they had the full details.
French Pony · 25 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
Well, that was quite an infodump! It was nice to hear what Sam and the rest of the Hobbits have been up to, though I would have preferred to see it "in person." Also nice to hear that Gimli has paid a visit and that Galadriel herself isn't above helping out.
Author's reply
Whether through her native foresight or the Mirror, Galadriel has sent her gift for the restoration of Bag End; and they'll undoubtedly find each carpet fits a particular room--how much do you want to bet? ;-) I'd thought of following Sam during a planting trip, but realized that at 75 chapters this story is already going VERY long; if I'm to close off this story EVER, I need to be a bit more Scotch with my descriptions, I think. And thanks for the comments.
harrowcat · 25 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
Not understanding yet maybe, just maybe, beginning to accept that these four may have had large places in bigger events than evil in the Shire. And I loved the description of the different facets of the King Larner.
Author's reply
Yes, at last beginning to understand their sons and foster son and Sam have done special things "out there" that have special meaning to what happened and will continue to happen "in here" as well. And to realize that this King is a multifaceted personality in his own right and that he especially honors Frodo and Sam is something these two need to understand. This distant King, after all, isn't likely to remain distant if Merry and Pippin continue to remain friends with him, and if there are possibly visits back and forth to look forward to in the future.
harrowcat · 25 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
Haven't read this chapter yet Larner but just had to respond to your last response. Given that it is Pippin's understanding then what you have put in is great. Actually, the image of Bilbo repeatedly trying to shove such a large packet as this must be, (it is a complicated will after all,) into his pocket is quite funny. Oh I do wish you were coming over to England soon as I would like to meet you in RL. Or that I could afford to visit the States any time soon. It sounds like we have much in common. I have also just invested in the complete CD set of Rob Inglis reading LOTR having worn out my cassette version trogging up and down the motorway. I was also contemplating swapping my car stereo for a CD player but have found an adaptor that lets me play my CD or MP3 player through the stereo. I could always send you one. I also play many listening books both in the car and at home for the same reason as you. It helps me stay alert in the car and helps me get to sleep at night. I don't sleep all that well and a tape helps me drop off again. Rather like Sam singing to Frodo I guess! They are an absolute life-line for my Mum as she finds reading very tiring now. She belongs to a Listening book club and for a modest fee is listening to one book while the next is in the post. I wish I could join it but it is only for the disabled. Anyway I had better sign off and go read the chapter.
Author's reply
My late husband was totally blind due to an accident when he was nineteen, and so I lived twenty-seven plus years hearing Talking Books and Cassette Books whenever he went to bed. Makes for some interesting tales. He was so glad when cassette books began to be made available commercially so he could begin building up a library of his own as he had before he was blinded (as with many blinded when older, he never became so proficient at braille he could read a book in it). Many of his first ones, indeed, we bought in England to read as we tootled down the lane. Our portable CD player got stolen soon after I moved to my current home, and I have few questions as to what became of it. Long, dreary story. But I DON'T sleep well with any speech going on around me, so don't usually listen when I go to bed. I have listened to LOTR on the boom box in the bedroom, though, while working on other tasks. I don't know the requirements for your mother to be enrolled in the library for the blind system in England, but here she'd be identified as reading impaired and could be enrolled in our system. Contact the RNIB to get more information as to requirements there.
Linda Hoyland · 25 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
It's good to see the Shire returning to normal.I always enjoy hearing what the Hobitts feel about Aragorn.
Author's reply
Yes, at last the Shire is returning toward normal, and the blessing of the Shire with the Lady's gift has begun. And as for Aragorn, the love the four bear him will one day be shared with so many more.
Dreamflower · 25 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
A very detailed chapter: I like the look "behind the scenes" at the nuts and bolts of restoring the Shire. I can well believe Sam keeping track of each and every tree he planted, and Merry's and Pippin's reports on getting rid of the rest of the Ruffians, and Frodo's report on the state of the investigation. I see you came on the same solution as I with having a trial period for the Ban, before it became permanent--really, that's only logical, when you think about it. They had to know whether it was feasible or not before it became a permanent edict! And I'd like to know more of Gimli's visit--that must have been a very nice and unexpected reunion with his young friends! And I wonder what he let drop about their deeds while he was there. I don't much imagine the Son of Gloin would have stood for any disrespect or incredulity to "his" hobbits! I also like the idea that Galadriel sent rugs and carpets--how lovely! The part at the end, with Mina and Rosie talking to Eglantine and Esmeralda must have been something of an eye-opener for the two of them--though clearly from the course of events, it still did not quite sink in for Eglantine.
Author's reply
I don't want to drag the story on forever, so tried to summarize reconstruction and investigation to date here; it's so important a part of the Shire beginning to recover from the Time of Troubles, after all. Yes, the temporary Ban makes sense at the first. I don't know how much Gloin saw the Travelers while he was there--I suspect it wasn't a great deal, after all; but I, too, doubt he'd allow any disrespect offered to them. And I thought that Galadriel would be the most likely to offer the new carpets--perhaps one of her last gifts to those she came to cherish in the Mortal Lands, knowing that they would come to Sam all too soon, one way or another. And Frodo's nominal aunts need to begin understanding what happened to the four of them. It's information Esmeralda wants to know, and that Eglantine fears but needs to know. Thanks for your comments.
Dreamflower · 25 January 2006 · Chapter 71: 71: Bag End Returned
Definitely solves the difficulty! Well done!
Author's reply
Thanks--what a difference just a small change in wording can do, right?
shirebound · 25 January 2006 · Chapter 75: 75: Wrongs Righted
the Shire is once again our own. The hobbits really worked tirelessly to restore their Shire. What an incredible achievement.
Author's reply
I agree--a wonderful achievement indeed. The Hobbits are driven to make their land as it was before the coming of the Big Men.
grumpy · 24 January 2006 · Chapter 70: 70: What Iluvatar has Wrought
Loved Aragorn's trip to see the home for children, and to collect Arwin, so Aragorn can sleep at night. Maybe it was Gimli's axe that made the boy think he would like to see the woodpile. What a great reaction from Legolas, when he learned that Gimli could sail with him.
Author's reply
Now that Aragorn finally has his queen by him, I suspect every night spent away from her is welcomed grudgingly, and he'd do anything to have her by him again. She's now a part of his life in the relative peace to have followed the War of the Ring. And I do suspect that it was the axe that would spark the boy's determination to show Gimli the wood pile. After all, what other reason does the child know for carrying axes? And I suspect Aragorn is just as glad this is true for the child. And I've long suspected the allowance of Gimli into Aman was done as much for the comfort of Legolas as for Gimli in the end. So glad you approve.
lotrgirl1415 · 24 January 2006 · Chapter 74: 74: A Mother's Love
Sorry for my delay of reviews I've been so busy with school competitions and stuff. I know, EXCUSES! EXCUSES! lol I've just now read up to date and love it too much for words! Also I’d like to let you know that I LOVE your portrayal of Frodo in this fic. For I've noticed so many fanfic authors have rather enjoyed depicting him as an over conceited whiny "child" if I may say so.... But you depict him as such a sweet and sadly vulnerable "adult" and I love that sooo much. I do hope some of that made sense...I'm not very good with words...lol Keep up the great work. Lots of love, --Katie
Author's reply
I've seen a few such stories as you've indicated, although those that depict Sam as unable to have an opinion other than Frodo's own tend to annoy me more, as do those in which Frodo seems to be tortured interminibly. Both lengthy Frodo and Faramir torture tend to upset me. So glad you appreciate how I depict him. Now and then Frodo does become rather fretful even in my own stories; but considering what he went through, I certainly can't fault him much for that, considering how awful I sometimes behave when I feel bad. So glad you're able to keep reading in spite of all else. Next chapter is now up.
Linda Hoyland · 24 January 2006 · Chapter 74: 74: A Mother's Love
I enjoyed the conversation between Pippin and Bucca.Poor Frodo to have such nightmares,at least he is being cared for.
Author's reply
So glad you enjoy that conversation, Linda. Bucca's figured out how to get some answers, at least. I would expect all four Hobbits to have their own nightmares; that Frodo now has others willing to help him soothe when he has one and Sam's not at hand gives me a lot of relief as well.