Dreamflower
· 28 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
Oh my, Shirebound! This chapter is pure poetry--the description of Frodo's quiet and timeless days, the journey, and the view as it appears to him--it's wonderful! Your prose is so warm and gentle. I love the imagery, and the ideas you are bringing forth here--yes, this is an important step in Frodo's healing...
And I love the quote at the beginning. The tale of Earendil and Elwing is one of the few things in the Silmarillion that really strikes a chord with me--it's so sweet and romantic, and yet filled with spiritual significance.
Author's reply
Thank you, Dreamflower! "Quiet and timeless days" is the precise feeling that I was trying to convey.
Cuthalion
· 28 November 2006
· Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
“Only those who desire to rule others wish to stand alone, Frodo. To claim the Ring could have been accomplished alone, at any time during your Quest. But to destroy it took many people, and many events coming together – as well as the blessing of Powers beyond our knowledge.
Very wise, dear... that whole conversation is astonishing. I'm very glad that you made them meet. *smiles* (And yes, it took me quite some tome, but now I'll finally read the rest!)
Mona
Author's reply
Thank you, Mona. This particular line you highlighted is a lesson I'm still learning, as well -- that not all things can (or should) be accomplished alone.
Larner
· 28 November 2006
· Chapter 7: Letting Go
Ah, how wonderful to see that task done, and with such grace.
Beautiful imagery, Shirebound.
Author's reply
I think we both see Frodo as someone of 'grace'. I love thinking of him in this "timeless" land, gently learning, healing, and living somewhat as an equal amongst the Wise.
lbilover
· 28 November 2006
· Chapter 7: Letting Go
There was so much I loved about this, I could quote the whole story back to you, but I think this moved me most: "As for Vilya...” She smiled warmly at her son. “Your father wishes to wear it. Its final home will be amongst the stars, on the hand of a father who is most proud of his son.”" What a lovely thought, and it brought tears to my eyes, too. I love the hopeful ending, that Bilbo will still be there when Sam arrives (oh, and Frodo's surety that Sam *will* arrive!!). Then of course, Frodo's strength to give up Narya voluntarily, and his acceptance that he could not have given up the ring so close to where it was created. Oh, and Elwing's transformation was wonderful, too! And I'd be horribly remiss not to mention this:
"“Where’s Mellon?” Frodo asked, his eyes closing.
“Walking next to us,” Gandalf replied softly. “She is at your side, and always will be.”"
*meep*
Author's reply
Oh my, thank you! I think you highlighted all *my* favorite parts, as well!
I've always thought that if Frodo could "see" Sam's children before they were born, he might have been able to glimpse other things -- such as Sam sailing West someday. :D
SurgicalSteel
· 28 November 2006
· Chapter 7: Letting Go
I would *love* to see Bilbo interrogating Elwing over tea. Omigosh, what a wonderful scene that would be!
This was just lovely, peaceful, gentle... *sighs happily* Lovely as always!
Author's reply
Thank you so much! I wonder if Bilbo would be moved to recite his "Earendil was a mariner" verse to her? He's such a dear hobbit.
Gentle Hobbit
· 28 November 2006
· Chapter 7: Letting Go
Oh... nice. Very nice. I always feel more relaxed, and warm and comforted when I read your stories. I know that writing such stories is both your goal and your joy, so I can tell you (although I think you already know) that you are successful!
I just love the idea that Frodo gets to explore a way of healing that involves him taking on the very deed that has haunted him: giving up a valued ring. I loved how you tackled this and I eagerly look forward to your next thoughtful story.
Author's reply
What a lovely thing to say, GH. I really appreciate hearing that.
harrowcat
· 16 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
Sorry Shirebound = laptop problems.
I am holding my breath along with Elrond for the next chapter. This is great.
Author's reply
Oh no, laptop problems! :(
Thank you. I hope to get the next chapter written as soon as possible (but probably not until after my Thanksgiving trip back east). I want to see what happens next, too!
Grey Wonderer
· 15 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
(Special occasions and remembrances were celebrated with great feasts, during which there was much singing, dancing, and rejoicing in bounty from land and sea.)
That sounds so very Hobbity. No wonder Bilbo and Frodo felt right at home. I loved the bit about Frodo never having seen Lord Elrond excited! LOL I couldn't hardly picture it either.
I can't wait to see what happens next!
Author's reply
It *is* a bit hard to picture that, isn't it? *grins* Thank you for reading.
Glory Underhill
· 14 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
This was absolutely beautiful! I'm on pins and needles for what will happen next!
Author's reply
Thank you, Glory. There's something about these stories that take place in the West... they just seem to have a different flow and rhythm.
lbilover
· 14 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
Oh, how beautiful. I love how you describe Bilbo's and Frodo's lives together, and how they grow into the rhythm of life there. Frodo's dream and the white flower were so comforting, and now I am anxiously waiting to see how they return the rings to their elements. This is such a healing fic to read.
Author's reply
Thank you very much. This chapter was a surprise to me -- I hadn't planned it, but it just started flowing. I'm trying to imagine what it would be like to live in a place where time flows more gently, and life unfolds in a completely different rhythm than we're used to.
Baggins Babe
· 14 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
Oh Shirebound, this was such a lovely chapter! Frodo with the white blossoms of a young White Tree sapling nestling in his hair, Mellon carrying him far and wide, Gandalf and Shaowfax, and the prospect of meeting Elwing. It is so wonderful to think of Frodo healed and himself again, enjoying life with Bilbo and the Elves.
Can't wait for the next one and the chance to meet Elrond's mother at last.
Author's reply
Thank you so much. I just can't imagine Frodo's future -- in your tales or my own -- as anything less than a journey of healing and peace, surrounded by loving and supportive friends.
Daynawayna
· 14 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
OOoooohhhh, the plot thickens again! Could this be Elrond's Momma? ::jumps for joy and claps her hands:: Oh it is, it has to be!!! I can't wait for more, Janet! This is getting better and better all the time! :)
Author's reply
Thank you so much! You're as excited as Elrond! :D
Andrea
· 14 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
It was worth it, was Frodo's first thought upon waking. All of it. I wouldn’t change a thing.
*Smiles*
Maybe the healing is still in progress, but the hardest part is already accomplished, I think!
Now, let's see how Elwing can help Celebrimbor and Frodo with their task.
Beautiful chapter :)
Author's reply
Thank you, Andrea. Yes, Frodo's healing is a subtle and ongoing process (as it is for most of us), but it will also be a gentle, supported, and interesting journey that will bring him joy.
Larner
· 14 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
Ah--the joy of seeing his mother once more. Wonderful for Elrond, this reunion.
Author's reply
I'm both excited and nervous about writing it!
SurgicalSteel
· 14 November 2006
· Chapter 6: A Gift of Time
Lovely - the flowers bringing remembrances, the discussion of happier (but equally important) rings, and I believe that's Elwing approaching at the end.
Just lovely - as usual!
Author's reply
Thank you so much. This is a challenging story to write.
Celebrimbor has some very interesting things to say in this chapter. I find myself wondering what will happen next and if it will involve Frodo and Mellon too of course. Looking forward to more of this.
Author's reply
I've *finally* got a handle on "what happens next", after many weeks of trying to work it out. And you can be assured that every chapter will involve Frodo and Mellon!
Grey Wonderer
· 11 November 2006
· Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
(“Alas, loss is one wound that even Time itself cannot always heal,”) That is so very true. I love that Mellon wanted to guard Frodo against the danger of the water and against his own fears. Another splendid chapter!
Author's reply
Thank you! I think we'd all love a devoted companion like Mellon, even if she does get a bit over-zealous at times. :D
Grey Wonderer
· 11 November 2006
· Chapter 3: Among the Trees
Eärwen's talk with Frodo was lovely. It must have been very difficult for her to understand how he could offer such a percious gift. You write the Elves so very well.
Author's reply
Oh my, thank you! I'm *never* sure I'm writing Elves correctly. And it's such a challenge to bring in a character about which almost nothing is written in canon.
Grey Wonderer
· 11 November 2006
· Chapter 2: Along the Shore
I think I had read this part before but I am doing a bit of catch up on my reading tonight and so I read it again. I love Gandalf in this part and I simply can't get enough of Mellon.
Author's reply
Thank you so much. Surrounding Frodo with attentive, gentle, and wise friends -- dogs, wizards, or otherwise! -- is just something I can't get enough of. And I finally got time today to work on chapter 6, at last!
Mariole
· 10 November 2006
· Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
This is just gorgeous. So gentle, yet so powerful. I love how you are bringing all these ancient and powerful Elves to life. You make them real, yet give them their dignity and their special Elven flavor. This is a wonderful story, and I'm very glad you are posting it.
Author's reply
Mariole, I can't thank you enough for saying that. I never feel truly comfortable writing Elves, but I do try to show them as living, thinking, and 'feeling' different than others. How could they not be? Some may live 5000 years and learn very little, and others may find a wisdom and clarity they can pass along to others who need it. Like Frodo. *hugs you*
Antane
· 5 November 2006
· Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
Wow, there is so much depth here! Sorry to be reviewing so late, busy, busy. Kindred spirits indeed. There will be healing now for Frodo. Love the tears and embrace at the beginning. I could quote more but I'd be returning the whole chapter back to you. Very interesting little talk these two had. Please update soon!
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
I know how it is to be busy busy! This time of year always seems especially busy. Thank you so much. I just insist on comfort and healing, no matter where Frodo finds himself! :D
Dreamflower
· 2 November 2006
· Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
Shirebound! This is a *brilliant* idea! For Frodo to willingly assist in the dispersal of the Three may go a very long way to assuaging his guilt at being *forced* to part with the One! Wow, what a unique concept! You amaze me, sometimes, at the insight you come up with!
Author's reply
Thank you so much! *bounce bounce* I've been toying with this idea for *ever* so long.
Andrea
· 1 November 2006
· Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
"Would you assist me in seeing these rings to their final destination?"
"A new quest?" Frodo asked hesitantly, his heart sinking.
Oh my god, Shirebound! I can see him saying that. *Sigh*
But I believe this "quest" will be healing to both of them. As Celebrimbor pointed out, no one should try to destroy a Ring of Power on his own. He needs help. And that's how Frodo managed to destroy The Ring. It was only possible because Sam and Gollum where with him. Now, Celebrimbor asks him to help him destroy the three Elven Rings. That is meant as an honor - and also a plea!
I'm looking forward to seeing both of them receiving the healing they deserve!
Author's reply
Thank you, Andrea. Frodo will have time to process all this, and realize how true Celebrimbor's words are. Now I just need to find time to write it! :D
Larner
· 31 October 2006
· Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
Now I am very intrigued to see with whom this meeting is to take place. And I can understand why this may well be healing to Celebrimbor, and by extension to Frodo as well.
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner. I wish I had more than bits and pieces of time in which to write, as I'm looking forward to experience this 'meeting', as well! :D
Good grief, Shirebound, you do have a knack for finding links! It had never occurred to me that Celebrimbor and Frodo were kindred spirits but you're right. I am fascinated to see what happens next, but it makes sense that the Three should be returned. And the great Elf has asked Frodo to help him.......
Author's reply
Thanks, BB! I'm really enjoying bringing these two together for mutual healing. What fun to explore this part of Frodo's story. :D