The Path to Healing by shirebound
Daynawayna · 31 October 2006 · Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
I loved it! Double-healing! Elf/hobbit h/c!!! I'm in HEAVEN!!! LOL :D I can't wait to see what you have in store for them, SB. Very wonderful fluffy puppy hobbity stuffs! :D Because you KNOW Mellon is just an overgrown puppy after all..... ;)
Author's reply
Wow, thank you! Your enthusiasm makes me all bouncy. :D
harrowcat · 31 October 2006 · Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
Oh what an absolutely wondrous chapter Shirebound. I could quote it all back to you so I won't. But.... The best acts are not achieved alone, but with others of like will and heart. I so agree with this. But I would love to see a chapter that includes the three bearers giving up their rings. And Elrond as an apprentice! *ggggg*
Author's reply
The best acts are not achieved alone, but with others of like will and heart. I agree, too! Frodo did try to slip away many times and achieve the Quest on his own... even at the end, he walked alone to the Crack of Doom. I think he really felt he could --or should -- destroy the Ring on his own, somehow. But most great achievements are accomplished as a team, with "others of like will and heart". Thank you, harrowcat.
Glory Underhill · 30 October 2006 · Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
Wonderful! Celebrimbor was vibrant. I'm on pins and needles to see what their upcoming 'quest' brings them.
Author's reply
Ooooh, 'vibrant'... thank you! :D
lbilover · 30 October 2006 · Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
Oh this is fascinating, and so very moving. I love the ending, and Celebrimbor's words to Frodo. You have such great insight into the effects of the Ring and Frodo's hurts. I'm looking forward so much to reading more of this wonderful tale.
Author's reply
Thank you so much. It's difficult to fully heal, if you can't confide your deepest feelings to someone who's had a very long time to think about the very same things you're going through.
SurgicalSteel · 30 October 2006 · Chapter 5: Kindred Spirits
I absolutely love this - Celebrimbor becoming a healer, and Frodo helping him to finally dispose of the Three. And interesting that the final homes of the Three will parallel the final 'homes' of the Silmarils - Air, Fire, and Water. I don't think I've ever seen anything written of Celebrimbor after a return from the Halls of Mandos - in fact, I don't think I've ever seen him written as anything other than rather arrogant and cold. This is a lovely notion, and I'd think he must have been cured of a great deal of arrogance/secretiveness simply to get out of the Halls of Mandos. Just lovely!
Author's reply
I'm so happy you're enjoying this. We don't know exactly what it takes to be released from the Halls of Mandos, or how many Elves choose to "return", but Celebrimbor's journey seems a natural progression, to me. Step by step, I've been just letting this story reveal itself... and this is the Celebrimbor that has emerged. Thank you so much for reading.
Cuthalion · 24 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
“And they truly are your friends,” Gandalf assured him. “You need not question that, ever again. No, this is a very special Elf, one who has been to the Halls of Mandos and back.” Frodo stared at Gandalf, wide eyed. “Like Glorfindel?” “Yes, exactly like Glorfindel. His name is Celebrimbor.” Ah - Celebrimbor died before he could reach the Undying Lands (as you once mentioned in your LJ, I think), and now you have given him Glorfindel's fate to make things possible. Very good! I'm really looking forward to the next chapter! Mona
Author's reply
I'm looking forward to it, as well! I've been thinking about him for many months, and believe he and Frodo will have some interesting things to teach one another.
Cuthalion · 24 October 2006 · Chapter 3: Among the Trees
This is so beautiful - and what a brilliant idea to make the ancient elves of the first age feel reluctant to meet those two strange mortals! This tale is like the slow, easy walk through a blooming garden in summer... thank you so much. Mona
Author's reply
Thank *you*, Mona. Imagining Frodo's life in the West is completely up to each person's interpretation, and I'm so happy you're enjoying this.
Cuthalion · 24 October 2006 · Chapter 2: Along the Shore
As they travelled, Frodo let fall the sparkling gems, one by one -- returning them to the sand. He was unaware of the small gathering of Elves, watching quietly from the bluff overlooking the beach. He doesn't need any treasures either, does he? *huge smile* This was marvelous, Janet. Mona
Author's reply
Eeee, thank you. Elves in the West would have a hefty wariness of mortals, I would think.
Cuthalion · 24 October 2006 · Chapter 1: In the Meadow
How heartwarming, Janet. The description of the island makes me want to go there, too, and the dog is a wonderful surprise. She's a very special puppy isn't she? -- The whole chapter has an atmosphere of deep peace and an almost dreamlike quality. Absolutely beautiful. Mona
Author's reply
Thank you so much. Heartwarming, peaceful, and dreamlike are exactly what I'm trying to convey!
lbilover · 24 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
I wonder what Celebrimbor will have to say to Frodo. *waits impatiently for next chapter* I love Mellon's care and concern for Frodo, and Frodo quoting Sam's words about the garden, and the way the Elves are coming out hiding, so to speak. It's just wonderful to see Frodo's path to healing taking place, and his growing happiness!
Author's reply
Thank you so much! I think healing is a subtle thing, and doesn't happen all at once... but wise, caring, and supportive friends are often the best medicine.
SurgicalSteel · 22 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Loved this - the Elves finally warming up to Frodo and Bilbo, Frodo enjoying a day at the sea - and can't wait to see that meeting with Celebrimbor!
Author's reply
Thank you. I'm afraid Frodo is in for nothing but disgustingly sweet happiness, healing, and support. Just can't help myself...
pebbles66 · 22 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Oh, I liked this! I've been re-reading The Hobbit with my daughter, and had noticed Bilbo's description of the elves being merry and possibly even silly. That seemed very different from the elves described in LOTR. I'm glad that you explained the difference.
Author's reply
Thanks, pebbles! Yes, "The Hobbit" has a lot of lightheartedness that LOTR doesn't. It's an interesting book to re-read.
Antane · 21 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Now that's an interesting little cliff-hanger ending. Please don't keep us waiting too long to be a fly on the wall at that meeting! Glad that our dear is so happy, making friends, overcoming his fear of swimming and seeing Bilbo happy. Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
I promise we'll all get front-row seats for that meeting. I'm looking forward to it, too!
Tigger · 21 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Ooooh...This is a development I didn't expect, but very much looking forward to reading about it. I just love Mellon. Such a wonderful and lovely companion for Frodo. I also love the tone of your Erestor. I've always had the feeling he was one of those who while they may seem prickly, have a heart of gold underneath. I think the Battle against The Enemy kept Erestor from showing his true self in Imladris. At least, that's what I think. :o) This is a lovely story and after Gandalf telling Frodo who his next visitor is going to be, I am *very* much looking forward to the next chapter. :oD
Author's reply
Thank you, Tigger. I need to sneak in *some* tiny surprises in my stories, at least here and there! I hope you like what's ahead for Frodo... and Celebrimbor. This story has been such fun to research and plan.
Elflingimp · 21 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Wow I would like to meet him myself! I cannot wait until the next chapter!
Author's reply
I hope I do him justice! It's a challenge to think about someone who appears so briefly in the Trilogy, but has such an effect on the history of Arda.
Larner · 21 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Aha! Celebrimbor himself! I hadn't put that encounter into my stories as yet, as you know. But I am very much looking forward to this meeting. Lovely anticipation going on now!
Author's reply
Thanks, Larner! I started pondering back in August about incorporating Celebrimbor into this story somehow. I think he might turn out to be a very interesting part of Frodo's "path to healing". Still working out the details... What fun!
Andrea · 21 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Wow! Celebrimbor wants to speak with Frodo? That is going to be very, very interesting! Here, at last, were the Elves of Bilbo’s earliest stories – those who laughed and teased, sang, danced, and feasted -- and seemed to have cast off any weight of evil or dark memories on their hearts. You're right, Shirebound! Even the elves had forgotten how to laugh and tease during the long period of darkness. Not only for Frodo and Bilbo, but also for them, living on Tol Eressea is a "purgatory experience" (see Tolkiens letters), burning away all that made them feel guilty and sad, leaving only the light. Elves singing nonsense songs as they did when Bilbo arrived in Rivendell for the first time - I really like that :)
Author's reply
Thanks, Andrea -- I hope the meeting with Celebrimbor *is* interesting! I need to find time to write it... I love the silly, singing, carefree elves Bilbo meets outside Rivendell in The Hobbit. I wanted to give Frodo a chance to experience that.
Elemmírë · 21 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Oh I simply love Mellon more and more every time you write her, Shirebound!! She is just so protective of Frodo and such a comfort to him (and Bilbo no doubt) as well. *Good dog* Also love how the Elves of the island have now realized the hobbits' accomplishments and are no longer frightened of that which they barely knew of. It's kind of funny to imagine these great shining Elves scared of two tiny hobbits, but in a way it makes sense for most of them had never even heard of the race of hobbits let alone seen one. I'm glad they've all come out of their shells are now helping Frodo and Bilbo in many different ways. Celebrimbor wants to meet Frodo and discuss rings with him? I can't wait to read that conversation!! It sounds very intriguing, whatever you have planned. :D ~Elemmírë~
Author's reply
Thank you! *Mellon wags happily at you* Any elves on the island who remember the 'invasion' of Men before Numenor was destroyed must have still been wary of mortals, and their intentions. It's been interesting trying to think about this from their point of view. I've been thinking about Celebrimbor for months now. I think he and Frodo might have some very interesting things in common.
harrowcat · 21 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Oh wow lots of comfort is shifting to make way for loads for curiosity! Great stuff Shirebound!
Author's reply
Thank you! :D
Dreamflower · 21 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Oh goodness! Somehow I had missed a chapter, and now I get two at once! I am so pleased about Earwen's welcome to Frodo, and the easing of his fears of loneliness by her understanding. And you have been dropping some hints about the spider bite--I look forward to seeing what your imagination has made of that! And now Frodo will get a chance to speak to Celebrimbor, who forged all the Rings except for the One. That will be an interesting experience indeed! I love all the gentle interactions between Frodo, Bilbo, Gandalf and their Elven friends. You show so well the love and respect which Frodo engenders in all who meet him.
Author's reply
Thanks, Dreamflower. I think "gentle interactions" is probably a driving theme of this story. :D
Armariel · 21 October 2006 · Chapter 4: A Gift of Friendship
Oh my, Gandalf doesn't have his ring anymore? Eek! Look forward to meeting Celebrimbor....hmmm!! ~~~{~@
Author's reply
I'm looking forward to it, as well! I have a lot of thinking to do about the next chapter. :D
Siorah · 18 October 2006 · Chapter 3: Among the Trees
Hi Shirebound, I did a happy dance all around the house when I saw that you were posting another story. (It is quite a site by the by) I can't wait to here of Frodo's life in Valinor. Keep up the great work, Siorah (Kathleen)
Author's reply
Eeee, a happy dance! What a lovely compliment, Kathleen. Thank you so much. :D
Baggins Babe · 14 October 2006 · Chapter 3: Among the Trees
This was an absolutely beautiful chapter with so much to revel in. Frodo's offer to heal the Trees was perfect and so in character, and I loved the interaction with Earwen. How amazing that she was willing to humble herself. I'd never thought that some of those in the West might be suspicious of mortals. Your stories are lovely and not full of horrible angst but you always manage to make me think about this incredible story.
Author's reply
Thank you so much. I think I'll leave the "horrible angst" to others, and concentrate on the growth, support, healing, and peace I love to see Frodo receive... and give!
shirespirit · 12 October 2006 · Chapter 3: Among the Trees
I laughed at myself when I read the first part of this chapter. Frodo was stalked, bitten, and poisoned by a spider three or more times his size, but he's not afraid of spiders. Yet I scream and run in terror every time I catch sight of one, even if it's so tiny you can barely see it without a microscope. Lol. ;-P “I thought...” Frodo stammered. “When I heard the tales, it occurred to me that someone could use the phial -- perhaps break it open -- to rekindle the Trees. I thought it was something I could do, to show my gratitude for Bilbo and myself being allowed to dwell here.” So typically unselfish of Frodo to offer to give up the Phial for the sake of others. Loved it. I also loved Eärwen and hope to see more of her! ~shirespirit~
Author's reply
I'm not crazy about spiders, myself! But I'm sure Frodo's seen plenty in Sam's lovely gardens, and just hiking in the woods, over the years. Thank you, Shirespirit! :D
Andrea · 12 October 2006 · Chapter 3: Among the Trees
“If I have learned to love dogs, I now believe that anything is possible.” Very true, my dear Frodo! Everything is possible! Even that a legendary Elven lady apologizes for not having greeted him properly. And what a wonderful idea to try to revive the Two Trees with the phial of Galadriel! I felt his mood lighten as he heard you explain that intention is as great a gift as accomplishment. Also true, and very wise! Thank you :)
Author's reply
Thank *you*, Andrea! :D