Pippin laughed. “Remember, Gandalf, I told you I wished to know all the history of Middle Earth and the stars and the Sundering Sea and all. Well, it was from my own father that I inherited my curiosity. We’re all descended from the Old Took, you realize.”
Wonderful! I'm really glad that Gandalf is still there. Without him there would not have been any laughter, I fear!
“He agrees now, Narcissa, that he ought to have opened to the possibility of a love between you earlier, when he first returned.
Oh, how I would have liked to see that come true. But it's too late now. Still, I'm content that Narcissa (and her mother) understand and accept now, why Frodo reacted the way he did.
Last, but not least I'd like to quote Dreamflower: "Well he make it in time, this time?" Please?
Author's reply
I've never forgotten the vision of Gandalf returned as being filled with sufficient joy and humor to set kingdoms laughing, and I've ALWAYS felt that was why he had, in the books, his silver scarf, and why he chose to wear the great blue hat. And even in grief there should be a reason to see the joy and delight beyond the present moment.
It would have been delightful had Frodo been able to know love, whether with Narcissa Boffin, Iris Whitfoot, Miss Maggot, Lily Proudfoot, Pearl Took, or anyone else one might imagine, either in or beyond canon. But with Frodo there I think Narciss would have in the end known a quicker healing than she would have after his sailing.
As for HIM, well, you'll just have to wait and see. After all, Roheryn did sprain his hock there in Rohan, you know....
White Gull
· 5 March 2007
· Chapter 3: Acceptance
I wish that Frodo HAD been loved so dearly by so many in the Shire. If he was, maybe he wouldn't have had to leave. I love this AU, for I think Tolkien made it clear that Frodo, and Bilbo, were misunderstood by almost everyone. If the heroes of the quest were understood in fullness by the Shire, maybe it wouldn't have faded, and we would still have hobbits today, in peaceful interaction with the children of Men. :)
WG
Author's reply
I suspect Frodo was thought of by most as Old Mad Bagginses almost equally cracked ward and heir; but there had to be those who loved him beyond his younger cousins. After all, heroes aren't made in a vacuum, as I noted once.
And in my version, the relationship between Frodo and the Thain, not to mention that between Paladin and his son, had been somewhat bent out of shape by Pal's reaction to having to accept the mantle of authority left him by Ferumbras and his anxiety to doing it right leaving him with not enough time to maintain his earlier loving relationship with his son, as well as the desire to deny anything beyond his experience could have happened. In part Frodo helped to spark the healing of that rift.
So glad you like this AU.
Dreamflower
· 5 March 2007
· Chapter 3: Acceptance
I'm glad Gandalf stayed on a little while; somehow, I don't think that ship will leave without him.
I like the way everything is now coming out into the open, and so much is being revealed. You know, it had never occurred to me to wonder what could have become of any ring Saruman had. Very interesting speculation! Are you going to go into more detail about this in "Stirring Rings"?
And I'm keeping my fingers crossed that a certain well-loved Big Person will make it in time, this time!
Author's reply
No, I doubt the ship would leave without Gandalf; but in the end I think he leaves the resolution of Frodo's mortality to the mercies of other mortals, as all find themselves putting aside their fears as they seek to hold Frodo while they can.
As for a certain well-loved Big Person.........
Elanor Silmariën
· 4 March 2007
· Chapter 3: Acceptance
Oh, I just love how you write hobbits! The way they talk amongst themselves makes me smile! Oh, I'm worried though about what will happen to Frodo! *is nervous* I love how Frodo figured out who Gandalf really was, though, and I'm glad his family is being understanding and/or trying to understand. Please update again soon!
God bless,
Ellie
Author's reply
Am so glad you enjoy the Hobbits as they show themselves in my stories. I find I like the folk of the Shire a good deal, which is why my stories keep being taken back to it.
And as Frodo learned at least some Sindarin from Bilbo, I'd think he'd have indeed picked up the knowledge of Gandalf's origins along the way from hints here and there.
And at times like this families either try to understand, or they fall apart altogether; and I can't imagine those Frodo had always loved falling apart.
So glad you like it.
Plan to post the next chapter tomorrow, God willing and the creek don't rise.
eiluj
· 4 March 2007
· Chapter 3: Acceptance
The fate of Saruman's ring -- now *there's* an issue I've never seen covered in fanfiction. And even Tolkien didn't address it. I'd rather think that Saruman's ring was destroyed than left in the dirt to be found aeons later by some petty soul with more ambition than was good for him, or a grudge against humanity, or an idea for a new cult....
Excellent job as always.
Author's reply
I've been considering Saruman's interest in rings of power as I continue work on Stirring Rings, of course; and as I've played with the idea Sauron himself might have tried his hand at making some and finding they aren't as effective as he would have liked unless the recipient was already well on the way to falling, I had to consider what kind of ring Saruman might try his hand at.
But the idea of someone in the future finding the horrid thing and founding a cult on it.... Now, there is a nuzgul. Someone catch it right away before it gets into my jewelry box along with the one already there that I've been coaxing out of it!
Queen Galadriel
· 4 March 2007
· Chapter 3: Acceptance
A very appropriate title for this chapter. Oh, to have to accept that! I'm glad Narcissa and her mother came; both she and Frodo needed that acceptance, I think.
Very interesting about Saruman's ring. I won't repeat Gandalf's epithet, but I agree with him! Really stupid of Saruman, the pitiable (disgusting thing) thing.
There's a peace about this, an undercurrent of familiarity, that is somehow comforting and heart-breaking at the same time. I just love it. It's so true to life: everyone gathers around the failing loved one, but the ordinary, everyday things stay the same, and the tears are mingled with laughter. Beautiful.
God bless,
Galadriel
P.S. Is Aragorn coming? Please?
Author's reply
It is a difficult situation to accept, but must indeed be accepted time and time again, as you know from your own experience.
I'm not adverse to repeating Gandalf's estimation of Saruman--anyone who chooses survival and power over what he knows to be right is a most dangerous kind of fool; and Gandalf also considered Sauron a fool, if you'll remember, one prone to judging all others by his own behavior and motivations. But you are right, Saruman was pitiable.
And by accepting the absurdities and laughter along with the grief, in the end I think they all make it easier for Frodo to go on, knowing they will be healed and will not ever by bowed down by grief for him.
Do you think Aragorn ought to be allowed to come? What about his still temporary edict banning Men from the Shire, then? How should he resolve that dilemma?
Linda Hoyland
· 4 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
Gandalf's words are very wise.
I agree Sam is also the Renewer.
Author's reply
Gandalf was the one fully intended by Manwe himself to stand against Sauron, after all. The wisest of the Maiar, and probably, along with Sauron, one of the two greatest in power. Those given to evil may appear to wield more power, but as Professor Dumbledore was advised, it is because those given to Good are too noble to allow themselves to perform the more crushing blows and actions. And in the end Love holds the far more potent magics, perhaps because it is so much more subtle and invasive--and enjoyable and fulfilling for all who share it.
Linda Hoyland
· 4 March 2007
· Chapter 1: Last Riding
What an interesting idea for an AU!Sam is so unselfish,
Author's reply
Sam was always unselfish, which is why, I think, so many of us love him so.
Thanks for the comments,
Linda Hoyland
· 4 March 2007
· Chapter 0: Prologue - Might Have Beens
What a charming family scene 1
Author's reply
I'm honored you find it so, Linda. Thank you.
lotrgirl1415
· 3 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
Oh my....this fic is so sad....I'm about to cry.....
*holds on to Frodo and bawls!*
You are such a talented writer!
xoxoxxooxoxo
--Katie
Author's reply
Sad, but definitely part of life. As Gandalf tells Pippin in the movie, Death is but another road, one we all must take. For some the need to set foot on that road comes earlier and for others it comes later; or perhaps some find the current takes them far faster than it does others. Frodo has accepted he's traveled it faster than he'd have liked, but he's ready to cross into the land where it leads as he must with few regrets of note; and the burdens he's carried are at least lightened a good deal by Gandalf's visit.
And thank you so much for the compliment.
Bodkin
· 3 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
I suppose I can see why Frodo wouldn't want to sail - would prefer to make an end of it in his home surrounded by those who loved him. And Bilbo has long since made the break to dwell among elves and would welcome this last adventure. Gandalf's words are relieving a weight on him - and it's good that he could hear them before the wizard leaves him.
Author's reply
I cannot imagine that if Frodo had indeed chosen to stay that Gandalf would have been denied one last visit of this sort. And I do believe that to sail would indeed have been offered as a choice, one those who granted that choice desired he might accept, not a sacrifice insisted upon.
And I do agree with all you've said, and am glad you appear to have seen in this chapter so much of what I'd intended to convey. Thanks so much for the response.
White Gull
· 1 March 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
This is delightful, so far. If this is going where I think it is, I'll be smiling. I've never been tempted to write an AU of this sort, and I know that if I was, I could never match your equisite prose. I look forward to your next chapter! :)
WG
Author's reply
I am very honored, White Gull, considering your talent with poetry and your love of giving Frodo loves of his own. I fear my loves for him were never consumated, or at least not in THIS story, at least. Maybe in other "Might Have Beens"....
Althea
· 28 February 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
I have read this chapter twice. The first time I I was almost overwhelmed by wisdom, comfort, and peace your words conveyed. The second time I read through the chapter, I was trying to think of words I could to let you know how deeply the message and insights of this installment affected me. I can't begin to match your expressive prose. All I can say is that I love this chapter and the peace and forgiveness it brings. I love the emphasis on the fact that a higher power was involved and had a benevolent plan all along.
I have always felt that Gollum had already made plans with Shelob before the "sneaking" conversation, so I was very happy to see this idea featured in the story. I also love the fact that Elanor's first word was "Fro." I like the idea of the Creator's forgiveness of Gollum for being of use in the plan. There are so many wonderful ideas and lessons in this chapter, but I particularly like this, "You will learn that the Creator has a distinct sense of humor, and enjoys hiding His greatest treasures in the most difficult places to access. Why do you think diamonds and emeralds of great worth are found hidden in common soil and stubborn rock?”
Thank so so much.
Author's reply
"Bilbo was meant to find the Ring, and NOT by Its maker. And in that case, you, too, were meant to have it, and that is a comforting thought." Tolkien tried to expunge religiosity from his story that it not appear preachy, yet its basic truths are with us.
Gandalf was sent by the Valar, and sent back by Valar and Creator to finish his task. He now speaks with a good deal of authority, I think; and now, since Frodo won't have time in the Undying Lands to come to full terms with what he accomplished here and how likely it is that even Gollum, having been used by Divine Providence, is likely to find his way back to the Light, then I believe Gandalf would feel the need to give him a crash course to make his way once through the Gates easier and better guided.
Certainly the idea Gollum had already been working to betray them is supported by Gollum's appearance from up the stairs.
And so glad you like that line in particular.
Thanks so much for the review.
Queen Galadriel
· 28 February 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
Yea!!! You updated!!! I was truly beginning to think I really couldn't stand it any more. :)
I love this chapter; I'm so glad Frodo has already found some healing, and I have a feeling he might find more before the time comes. As always I love Gandalf's gentle but firm manner of pointing out exactly what's what and where responsibility and blame belong.
“It appears that, no matter what my wishes are, I’m to have a birthday party of sorts after all,” Frodo said, shaking his head in disbelief.
“Although what kind of birthday party is it when the host must perforce leave in the midst of it?” A tear escaped him, just as Sam found himself inexplicably
starting to laugh. Rosie and Frodo looked at him aghast, only to see he couldn’t help himself at all.
Sam sank down on the bench and held his sides. “Of all I could ever imagine,” he finally choked out, “who’d a’thought of such a thing--that those
as love you best would descend on you like this, leavin’ you with no way to hide from them? Oh, my Master, they love you, and you must face the fact as
none of them is lackin’ in brains. You’ve tried to hide it, but you can’t--you can’t at all. Mr. Merry and Mr. Pippin--they’d already told me, last time
as they was here together, they were comin’ for the sixth. The other night when the Thain and Master and their ladies was here, they could see the truth
of it.” The laughter had faded and tears were now forming.
We do laugh at the oddest times, don't we? *tears* Obviously I can't laugh just now, reading it, but this conveys very well what you've said before and what I've recently found to be true: sometimes we have to laugh just to get through the rougher times, even if there's little or no real humor in it. But that's not what I was going to say; I was *going* to say that I love how all his family and friends just flock to Frodo's side as he prepares to accept the Gift.
Frodo’s shoulders were shaking as he wept into Elanor’s gown. At last they could hear, the tone muffled, “I don’t want to have to----”
“To say goodbye?” finished Gandalf gently after it became obvious Frodo could say no more.
Oh, poor Frodo! I can sympathize--I've come to hate "good-bye" (though I don't exactly have a good reason like he does).
And how sweet and wonderful that Elanor's first word is "Fo"! Aww!
Oh, I so hope Frodo needn't pass while the memories are upon him, in that dreadful time!
That Sauron spoke the curse first and the Ring shared it with Frodo is very intriguing and explains a lot. I always thought that Frodo must have been either very angry or under the Ring's influence (leaning more towards the latter because of the description in the book) to say those words to Gollum.
Yeah, my internet connection hasn't been terribly fabulous lately either, and my computer is falling apart. Really! The screen is coming off (it's a laptop). Erg, if it's not Jaws or the book player or the pac mate being goofy, then it's something physical that makes me wonder how long I'll *have* a computer. But hey, like I always say, it makes life more interesting :( I wish I could just detach the blasted screen; all it's ever done is get in my way, and it's not like I need it, whatever my brother (my supposedly mature and knowledgeable thirteen-year-old brother who has lived with me every day of his life) might think about a computer having to have a screen in order for Jaws to read it, LOL! (I love his logic! "It's a screen reader, right? So it has to read the *screen*!" Hahahahaha!) I do hope something can be done about your connection. *good computer wishes* :)
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
This was SUPPOSED to be a single-chapter story, but refuses to behave and cut itself short. Now I'll have to retitle the whole thing, and hope that doesn't confuse people too much.
Humor is based on the absurd; and absurd thoughts will show themselves at the oddest and most inappropriate times. One moment all looks to end in moments, and just then Sam utters the totally unlikely wish to know just how their story will be told--and on awakening that one wish is granted. Frodo had a moment to appreciate, "How on earth can he think of a thing like that at a moment like this? Oh, but how very much that's my Sam!" and then they awake to find they're not the only ones to think of such a thing!
And we need to laugh at such moments.
For such individuals who are loved as Frodo has come to be loved by his family, their families WANT to be with them to fare them well. And it appears to be heartening to those who are dying to see their families gathered, and for the moment in amity with one another, quarrels and arguments and rivalries forgotten, comforting one another, being there for one another. That's how we're supposed to be at all times, and how we all too often aren't.
I've always felt that Gollum was intended to serve a divine purpose, and I am certain that with some of his awareness of beauty and peacefulness and integrity restored to him there is something the Creator can work with to help bring Smeagol back to Himself fully, now he is no longer under the Ring's influence.
As for your brother and "the screen reader needs to read the screen"--how wonderfully naive! He still thinks the screen is necessary! How does he think you read on the PackMate? Treasure him, our Lady, treasure your own personal Gollum.
Good luck with your computer hassles.
Kitty
· 28 February 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
Oh, it is wonderful that they all have come to Bag End! I am so glad! Even if I know how Frodo feels about farewells, it’s still not right to leave them all without saying anything.
Was glad to have Gandalf there, who seems to understand best of all not only why Frodo refused to sail, but understood his feelings of guilt and failure so well. You did a great job pointing out the connections between Frodo, Gollum and the Ring, and the most intriguing was probably that Sauron hat predicted exactly what Frodo said to Gollum later. I fervently hope Frodo will think this over and let go of a good part of the burden he is carrying.
*sigh* The way Gandalf eased at least some of Frodo’s guilt gave me a tiny spark of hope that Frodo would make it through the sixth and the following days. But then I remembered that his heart is failing, and now I don’t dare to hope :-(
Author's reply
This is the way it tends to happen when families realize a loved one is failing--they come to spend what time they can while they can. And at least they know that Frodo is able to appreciate it, even if he hadn't wanted all this. I think the new herbal mixture is helping a good deal to help keep him focused and less stressed; but just accepting that his family also has need to deal with his gradual weakening and potential loss as they can is easing to all of them.
But whether he'll make it through the sixth or not we don't know as yet.
Kitty
· 28 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Last Riding
Well, at least this time Frodo didn’t keep everything secret, but told Sam a bit about what he planned. I’m glad he got to see Bilbo once more, though I hate the thought of Frodo going back only to die some days later. If he is staying behind in his beloved Shire, I want him to survive and be happy *sniff*
It was obvious from the beginning that it is fruitless to argue with him about his decision – Galadriel is right, he is a stubborn Baggins after all.
But now I fear I should keep some hankies ready for the next updates and *not* read at work, knowing how much I tend to cry ...
Author's reply
I do need to invest in stock with Scott Paper products and Kleenex tissues, don't I? (Heh!) But I think that even this way it won't be as bad as everyone expects. And there may be a few revelations along the way.
Yes, I think that Baggins stubbornness has been both his greatest strength and in some ways his greatest weakness at the same time. Too bad for the Ring it didn't realize how to use it against him, but good for Middle Earth.
Kitty
· 28 February 2007
· Chapter 0: Prologue - Might Have Beens
Oh, how I want this could have been true, Frodo being there with them and just doing what Sam is describing ... *sigh*
They certainly aren’t the only ones to wonder what would have been different.
Author's reply
I, too, wish this had could have happened, as does, I'm certain, Sam. But if Frodo had stayed, would he have been ever able to accomplish such things?
Andrea
· 28 February 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
That's what I feared would happen. I could really see no other way!
I'm glad that Gandalf was there and could relieve Frodo from at least one part of his guilt. Sauron was the one who uttered the curse first, and through the influence of the Ring Frodo repeated these words. Wow! That's a reasonable explanation for what happened!
I also liked Gandalf's words to Sam:
Why do you think diamonds and emeralds of great worth are found hidden in common soil and stubborn rock?
A perfect image! Thank you for that :)
Last but not least I'm satisfied to see that Saradoc and especially Paladin have come to accept the truth much earlier.
Great story, Larner! But I must admit that I'm a little afraid of what will happen next.
Author's reply
A grievous time, but a time for blessing for all as well, as each comes to terms with Frodo's loss, even if this time they do not know he is healing in Tol Eressea; yet they do know he is prepared to accept peace and healing beyond the bounds of Arda.
Diamonds and emeralds are so much a part of Middle Earth and its cosmology, it only seemed right that such stones would be used in this metaphor to help Sam realize he is important, just as important and worthy as Frodo and Aragorn himself.
Saradoc and Paladin are getting the details a bit earlier as to Frodo's own part in the quest; but they did have the meeting with Frodo a few days earlier and so are not totally ignorant of their sons' parts now.
Death is a part of life, and an important part of life. We don't know when it will come, which is why we are enjoined to live as if each day might be our last, that we rejoice in what we can, and don't do things we will regret at the last moment. How long one lives isn't as important as what we accomplish and how many people's lives we touch along the way.
Dreamflower
· 28 February 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
Well, I do see which road you chose, now.
I am glad Gandalf was there--truth is, he needed to say these things to Frodo, and Frodo needed to hear them.
I am also glad that all those others will get their chances at farewell. It makes me also hopeful that *one* person, who was too late to say farewell at the Havens, may possibly have time to say farewell *this* time. (And it's still seven years till the Ban is official.) *crosses fingers*
And Elanor is adorable.
Author's reply
I suspect these topics and more were what Frodo had to deal with in his recovery in the Undying Lands. Certainly Tolkien indicates that Frodo needed to develop a more realistic view of his own place in the scheme of things, and accept he was no better than the worst of the Creator's creatures, and no worse than the best.
As for just that one more individual arriving in time--well, you know he is on his way.
As for Elanor, she's ALWAYS a delight. Frodo's separation from her must have been among the worst he suffered.
harrowcat
· 28 February 2007
· Chapter 2: Dealing with Guilt
Yes definitely fast and rather rough therapy by Gandalf. He must be feeling that must do what he can but it is obvious that he wishes Frodo had chosen differently.
You pick up so many threads in this. I have always loved the way that everybody's part had to be played out and fit together like a jigsaw for the Ring to reach the fire and so much good come out of the evil. The bit about Souron's curse of Gollum was very much a wow moment.
Too many great things to comment on as I dash off to work but loved the lighter touch of Elanor's first word. Children are such a powerful influence! Great to see Frodo being faced with some home truths and surrounded by thse who love him.
Good News - Have seen the Motor Home I want and, guess what, it is called a Bilbo! No, I'm not joking!
Bad News - No money :(
Good News - the MS Consultant is coming all the way from Nottingham to assess Mum.
Bad News - Dad is so depressed at the moment that I am more worried about him than about Mum. And no respite or day care in sight!
Author's reply
Tolkien made it so clear each individual had a part to play in fighting Sauron, and none was asked to do more than he could. But Frodo has to accept, in his heart as he knows intellectually, that he wasn't responsible for it all. Tolkien indicated in his letters Frodo's pride was partly at fault, for he had difficulty accepting his "failure" due to the fact he'd not disposed of the Ring itself. He also undoubtedly felt he'd totally failed with Gollum, what with that final attack and the bite resulting in the destruction of both Gollum and the Ring. To realize that just his being there for Gollum may have been a blessing to the wretched creature must have been a relief.
A Bilbo? Oh, I want one! Are they available with automatic transmissions? I've not had a motorhome for three years, and do I miss it!
As for no money--I certainly relate.
Glad a new consultant is coming. Multiple sclerosis? That's a good drive, having to come from Nottingham.
Good luck with your father. I understand depression, having been through my own bouts and watching it in my husband and several of his siblings. God bless you all.
And love to Jet.
Queen Galadriel
· 27 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Last Riding
Yeah, I've already reviewed, and I tend to get on people's nerves with not-so-subtle "indirect begging" (but if I said I was ashamed of that right now I'd be telling a fib *grins*), but I had to let you know this has been in the back of my mind constantly for the last two days tantalizing me! And I also forgot to tell you my favourite part:
Frodo stirred against him, looking up into his eyes. “Nothing is certain, Sam, not even there in the Undying Lands. And my heart is here.” He
turned his head on Sam’s shoulder. “My heart is here, here in the Shire,” he murmured as his eyes closed once more.
Oh, it just makes me want to cry, but I love it.
Okay, I'll leave you alone. :)
God bless,
Galadriel
Author's reply
No getting on my nerves. Now, Hughes.net is getting on my nerves, the connection from home has become so blamed iffy! I am about to scream and yell about getting my money back for the new satellite modem, as this is becoming such a great problem!
And I do think the question of whether or not Frodo would accept the offer to go to Tol Eressea would not have been answered until late in the game. Now you know why I believe he would have decided not to go if that was his end decision.
elanor winterflowers
· 27 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Last Riding
Beautifully written—so quiet and delicate and sturdy all at once. Every word is perfectly chosen! I love the sound of it, and as for the suspense: well! I'll be back for more. :)
Author's reply
Thank you so very much, Elanor Winterflowers! I am so flattered. Thank you indeed.
Elanor Silmariën
· 27 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Last Riding
I wonder where this will end up? Interesting AU, I like it! I can't wait for more!
God bless,
Ellie
Author's reply
I hope you continue to like it in spite of the realization all have that Frodo is choosing to die sooner rather than later. But I do feel he needs an understanding of what he's just given up.
Thanks for the review.
cookiefleck
· 27 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Last Riding
Looking forward to future chapters. You're off to a wonderful start.
Author's reply
So glad you like it, and especially since this one is told primarily from Sam's point of view. Thanks for the review.
Althea
· 26 February 2007
· Chapter 1: Last Riding
I love the tenderness and sadness of this.
Author's reply
Thank you, Althea. There is sadness, but such sadness is a good part of life, and the other side of our joys, for it shows we did know them and appreciated them while they lasted.