Larner · 22 September 2006 · Chapter 12: Between White Stone and Shadows
They got out with him, and down the ropes apparently to freedom? It doesn't seem fair, somehow. Hurry, Aragorn, and capture them! And clever, clever Merry!
Shadows of a Nameless Fear by Budgielover
Reviews (316)
Larner · 22 September 2006 · Chapter 11: Out of a House of Flame
Drat! Went right past him, did they? But hopefully the place will be remembered and the word seen and Pippin found before it's too late. Poor Pippin, once again dragged about by orcs!
Author's reply
*grins* In plotting this story, Larner, the temptation was overwhelming to have Merry captured too, as an echo and tribute to Our Movie. But that was stretching the action too far. And there is something so evocative about the littliest hobbit all alone and in danger. He brings out our protective instincts. *takes another look at the plot and wonders what happened to mine*
Larner · 22 September 2006 · Chapter 10: Through a Doorway of Heat and Flame
The cliffhangers are terrible, my love--terrible but well, well done. And what Hobbits has our friend been commenting on, we wonders, we does?
Author's reply
Your words reminded me of the first Harry Potter book (and movie), Larner. "Great things, yes. Terrible things but great ... or something like that." Thank you so much for your kind words!
Larner · 22 September 2006 · Chapter 9: Down Devious Paths
The men were fools, and the orcs moreso. And Pippin has identified Frodo's hiding place for Aragorn, but allowed himself to be taken. The wise fool! But it's why we love him, after all.
Larner · 22 September 2006 · Chapter 8: At the End of All Roads
Brave lad, our Pippin. Well done. Now, will they find Frodo in time? A punctured lung can be deadly.
Larner · 22 September 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness
Yes, indeed, Trollslayer--you can do more than take on these three fools, as injured as Frodo has left them. Earn your sword, Pippin! Exciting. But, of course, I worry for Frodo's safety down that hole.
Larner · 22 September 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones
I read this one before but don't appear to have left a review. Excellently done. No, taking the Ringbearer shouldn't be an easy task, and am so glad Frodo's as good with thrown stones as only Hobbits can be.
Author's reply
Bless your heart, Larner dear - I just realized you have left a review on every single chapter. I am 'catching up' tonight on thanking people for their reviews (some people are so good at that ... I am not one of them, unfortunately) and wanted to tell you how much I appreciate that.
Linda Hoyland · 22 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
THings seem to be going from bad to worse for the poor Hobbitts,gripping as ever.I eagerly await more.
Author's reply
Right there, Linda dear, you have described every one of my long-form stories. *grins*
GamgeeFest · 21 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
Oh my goodness gracious! You just love putting our hobbits on mortal danger, don't you? It seems the only who stands a chance of getting through this with only minimal harm is Sam! I love that Frodo requested for Sam to remain with him. Very fitting, and reminescent of Cirith Ungol. Merry might have stood a chance if he hadn't allowed himself to be distracted. Or he could have pretended to be distracted, allowing the man to make his move only to thwart him. I hope those soldiers don't take too long finding Merry. It might already be too late for Pippin, unless his Tookish luck kicks in. *on pins and needles*
Author's reply
Yes. GamgeeFest, you have pegged me. But I get them out again, don't I? I hadn't thought of the comparison with Cirith Ungol, but you are right. I loved your comment about Pippin's 'Tookish luck' - you are right there, too. Thank you for being so supportive of this story!
Andrea · 20 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
Wow! I think this is your personal record. Three different storylines, and *each one* ending with a cliffhanger. Again, Wow!!! Can it get worse? Pippin is lost somewhere and in the hands of Orcs, Frodo is fighting for his life and Merry had to capitulate, after a real good fight, I must say. Only Sam seems to be not in danger. But can I be sure of that? I don't think so ;-) At least Aragorn and company will search for Merry and Pippin everywhere they can think of. But what really makes me uneasy are Gandalf's words full of anger and grief! If Gandalf loses hope, all is lost! Please update soon!
Author's reply
Oh, Andrea, you should know never to ask,'can it get worse?' I take that as a challenge. *grins* I think I did actually have four cliffhangers in one chapter, in either "Some Nameless Place" or in "Recovery in Rivendell;" I can't remember this. But three a chapter is a good effort. Now the HARD part begins ... tying up all those storylines into one again, like weaving the strands of a rope.
Queen Galadriel · 20 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
Oh no! Is it *possible* that they all live through this? No one has the slightest idea where Pippin is, Merry is now under a sword... At least I don't have to worry for Sam, and at least Frodo is in good hands, though not out of danger. Still, he's in less danger than his young cousins, I know he is. I'm *so* *glad* Elrond didn't send Sam off alone-who knows what would happen, and Frodo needs another Hobbit by him. Can't wait for more! God bless, Galadriel
Author's reply
I have to confess, QG, that I had plotted out a dreadful fate for Sam, once he was alone and unprotected. However I don't think people could take another hobbit in danger in this fic. ;) The angst-overload might kill someone (probably me). So we continue with Merry and Pippin and Frodo, with the turning of the story just around the corner.
Pearl Took · 20 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
Worser and worser. Is there any hope? for Merry and Pippin I mean.
Author's reply
I should steal your (and Lewis Carroll's) quote, Pearl! I could answer with Gandalf's "a fool's hope," but you know me better than that. We are almost to the point of comfort with blankies and food and pillows and Elrond being stern and the hobbits abusing Aragorn ... and I am so looking forward to that!
Elflingimp · 20 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
Ugh!!!!!! How could you leave it there? The torture! You made quite a story out of this,I really admire your imagination, Poor Pippin I wonder how he is,now Ill have to wait until the next chapter to find out,(evil cliffy) again Ugh! P.S. This is really good!
Author's reply
Love your comment, Elflingimp - all of them. Thank you for the compliment, and for being so encouraging. Somehow I never run out of ideas on how to put hobbit in danger/torture them/burn down towns/ etc. Frightening, isn't it? ;)
Elwen · 20 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
Wow! Merry has certainly learned a few fighting tricks. I hope Elrond can follow Legolas' tracks to that inn quickly. He needs to see to our poor Frodo.
Author's reply
Elwen dear, I have you very much in mind when writing Elrond in this fic. You write him so beautifully, with such compassion and dignity and Elvish grace, that I don't want to disappoint you. As for Merry's fighting techniques ... I grew up with two much older brothers. I learned Merry's trick early. ;)
harrowcat · 20 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
Oh No! So who is NOT in any danger? Sam? But he looks in danger if losing half his soul! Well done at spotting the missing in action Gimli! Now go, men, go!!!!!!!!!!!! Find those hobbits!
Author's reply
I did have this idea, Harrowcat, of having Aragorn rib Gandalf about the fire ... asking the wizard if he'd started it or something like that (insider joke to "Some Nameless Place"). But considering Gandalf's mood, he might have blasted the King, which wouldn't do at all. So the Big People escape much danger in this fic. (Loved your comment about Sam. Beautifully phrased!)
Lindelea · 20 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
Ah, yes. You did say that you like to torment your readers by putting a character in peril and then ignoring him. And now how are you going to manage to ignore all three--Pippin, Frodo, *and* Merry? Something's got to give. *g*
Author's reply
I think I shall go on holiday now... tra la la la la (hugs you)
Dreamflower · 19 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
Oh wow! Every time I think it's as tense as it can get, you ratchet the stakes up another notch! Now every single one of our lads has had a chance to do something heroic, and be in danger or hurt! Poor Merry! He came so *close*! But Gimli and the others are searching for him...let's hope they find him in time! *whoosh!* Budgie, you are doing a real number on my poor fingernails!
Author's reply
I tell you, Dreamflower, this story is exhausting. (I'm sure you know what I mean!) Not to mention all the odd looks people give you when you are at work or shopping and working out dialogue to yourself under your breath. Especially my stories... *grins* *wink*
Ariel · 19 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
*Ghaeewrgrh!!!!* *munches madly on her popcorn* Eeek! Merry! And poor Frodo! Well, at least they know that Pip and Merry are missing!
Author's reply
*Ghaeewrgrh!!!!* ?? Now surely that is a scream of angst overload? (Or of choking on popcorn.) Honestly, Ariel, this is about the first long-form fic I've written where I am looking forward to starting the 'comfort' part after all I've done to our beloved hobbits.
Periantari · 19 September 2006 · Chapter 13: Out on the Cobbled Streets
omigosh! how much angst does this story have? First Frodo, then Pippin and now MErry's in danger! and i thought he had the upper hand in the fight with the Man and could learn about Pippin's wherabouts. ::bites fingernails in anticipation to what will happen with Merry:: THe second part with Frodo ...gosh.. suffering Frodo makes my heart wring with pity and worry and..ugh i hope that he will be all right soon--but please bring in the "c" and the healing for that very soon! So sweet of Sam to help Elrond but gahhh, i can't imagine Frodo being in this condition! ::imagines Frodo all healed and better soon!:: “The danger, the hurt. Frodo endured more than we thought anyone could, and he deserves only peace for the rest of his days. That line gave me tears because it's oh so true of what i wish of him. And it's so like Gimli to think something's amiss with 2 hobbits missing! I hope there is more PIppin next chapter and more Frodo saving too! and hope Merry recovers to smite that evil ruffian!!! THis story is awesome--please bring in some more rescue and healing though! (or i'll be crying soon. ;)
Author's reply
Periantari, my dear, you will be happy to hear Chpt. 14 starts with Pippin-lad. Thank you for reading this story with such attention - I really appreciate your reviews. Thank you especially for your quote of Gandalf's - I worked and worked and rewrote that, trying for just the right words. I don't know if I succeeded, but you make me think so. And the "c" is coming, very soon it is coming. Hold on, Periantari!
lotrgirl1415 · 29 August 2006 · Chapter 12: Between White Stone and Shadows
(please ignore spelling errors/teen abbreviations in this review!!For I know there may be some...and I can't open a spell check) YAY an update!!Thnx for the review reply..xoxo OOOoooOOOoooHHHhhhHHH Such a brave Merry!!He's totally kicking some major man-butt! OH my Poor Pippin! I do hope nothing happens to his lil hobbity tongue!!Orcs are so mean...*pout* I shall come to Pippin's rescue!! -------- [Katie:]" hey you!Evil orc dudes, put the hobbit down!" [Orc Dude #1:] "no...I dont think I will..." *evilglareofdoom* [Orc Dude #2:]*evilknucklecrackofdoom* [Orc Dude #3:] "as if you could stop us you puny human!" *evillaughofdoom* *theycometowrd me with evil intentions* *forbodingmusic* [Katie:] You think you can intimidate ME?!?! *forbodingmusicslowsakwardlytoastop* Wait a second...."Puny Human"?!? Oh NO YOU didn't! *SHAZAM* *KICKSSOMEMAJORORCBUTT* [Orcs Dude 1,2&3:] *buttskicked**bamboozelded* [Katie:] Pippin! [Pippin:] Katie! *slow motion music begins to play as we jump into each other's arms* [Pippin:] My hero! [Katie&Pippin:] *lovingsnuggles* [Frodo:]*appearsoutofnowhere* I thought you loved ME Katie!*tears* [Pippin:] no she loves me!! *pippin and Frodo seem to get angry with each other* [Frodo:] SHE'S MINE! [Pippin:] NO, SHE'S MINE! [Katie:] relax you two!You both can have me! [Frodo&Pippin:]OKAY!^-^ *and they all lived happily ever after* ^-^<3^-^<3^-^ ---- Well that was fun.A little bit of buttkicking goes a long way dont you think? Well my dear I hope my power doesnt go out this hurricane season...so that i will get to read each update wheever it appears...*sigh*...I hate hurricane season..*pout*...It is just about the only negative thing about living in Florida. thnx for the update and birthday wishes! lots of love Budgie-kins!!! update soon! ----Katie
Author's reply
Katie dear, I can just see you bristling at the orcs, and them cowering in terror. Your generous heart shows in your willingness to share with Pippin and Frodo - you will be the envy of every lass in the fandom. This really does call for a Mary-Sue, you know... ;)
Andrea · 29 August 2006 · Chapter 12: Between White Stone and Shadows
The orc carrying him barked a laugh. “The tongue to start,” it said with satisfaction. My god! They are already outside the walls of Minas Tirith! There isn't much hope that someone will find the smuggler's bolthole. And what will those orcs do, if they find out that Pippin is not the Ring-bearer? Still, there is hope, because there is Merry :) Merry leaped, curling into a ball as he flew through the air. He hit the small of the Man’s back and felt him stumble. Wow! I wished I could have seen that attack! Boromir would have been proud of him! I really hope that man knows enough for Merry to get on the right track.
Author's reply
Andrea my dear, your reaction concerning Pip's predicament is exactly what I was shooting for - thank you. And we will return to Pip in Chpt. 14, so you will have your question answered. Poor hobbits - they really won't speak to me after this one...
Linda Hoyland · 29 August 2006 · Chapter 12: Between White Stone and Shadows
Poor Pippin,things look very bleak for him.A nail biting chapter.
Author's reply
You know, Linda, for the longest time I had great difficulty writing Pippin in peril. Funny now, isn't it? I bet the poor lad longs for the days gone by when Budgie was overly protective... :)
Periantari · 28 August 2006 · Chapter 12: Between White Stone and Shadows
omigosh~! THe angst just mounts doesn't it? oh poor PIppin! I feel so horrible for him and the orcs' treatment is just abominable! :( I'm so frightened for Pippin now... poor Pippin! Please get him some help soon, please? i have no more fingernails left to bite for this fic. lol ANd i love your Merry in here Then Merry said in a soft, certain voice, “Tell me where the Ring-bearer is or I will kill you.” Awesome~ i love that determination and that courage that Merry had. And love the flashback to Boromir too. The angst is making me dead--some rescue soon please? :) Awesome chapter--and yes, i haven't recoverd from the last one enough to review but omigosh--please save both Pippin and Frodo soon! Can't wait for more. =] <--nervous smile
Author's reply
Oh, Periantari, you encourage me. Not the part about 'the angst making you dead' - never that! But by your generous words and vocal involvement in this story. As you know, sometimes it is difficult to make room in our lives to write and read fan fiction, and to know that one's work is being read and appreciated makes it worth it.
Frodo Baggins · 28 August 2006 · Chapter 12: Between White Stone and Shadows
Oh Budgielover! You *finally* updated! I know that sounds rude, but you left me hanging on a cliff by one finger, and I was about to be dropped. I thought I was saved until I saw the ending of this chapter... :) So would you mind saving me again? Pleeease? And what about Frodo? ANd Sam? Poor Pippin! If you don't take care him... Namarie! God Bless, Frodo Baggins P.S. I really didn't mean to sound rude. I'm glad you're back. :)
Author's reply
FB, you didn't sound rude - don't you worry. I felt bad about not getting that chapter up earlier - I look at writing a story as a responsibility as well as a joy. If only Real Life would not get in the way so! I'm so glad you enjoyed it, and I hope to be more prompt with Chpt. 14.
Queen Galadriel · 28 August 2006 · Chapter 12: Between White Stone and Shadows
No! You cannot stop here! How can there be hope for Pippin now? And who is this man that Merry is fighting? And what about Frodo and Sam? This is like a tripple cliff-hanger! :) I love how Merry's memory of Boromir inspires him, and how Pippin's mental image of furious Frodo helps him to go on. You're very true to the characters, Budgie. More soon...pleeeeeeease! :) God bless, Galadriel
Author's reply
Thank you, Your Majesty! For your enthusiam and for your compliments. It is easy to be true to the LotRs universe; we love it with every breath we draw. True, yes?