With Hope and Without Hope by docmon
Celeste Lucretia Black · 12 May 2021 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
Aw, that's it
Author's reply
Oh, thanks, Celeste! Sorry to disappoint in ending it there. I'm just amazed my stories are still being read. That's amazing. I'm afraid I won't be adding any more to this or writing more fanfic, as I'm now publishing my own work. :-D
sassy · 29 December 2012 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
Love this story. so many surprises and twists and turns loved it all
Author's reply
Thanks, sassy! Good to know the story's still being enjoyed by readers. This was a great undertaking when I wrote it. Author Reply: Thanks, sassy! Good to know the story's still being enjoyed by readers. This was a great undertaking when I wrote it.
PipMer · 14 December 2008 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
Finished! And what a fine tale it was, too. I'm glad that everything came together almost as it had in canon. I was concerned there for Legolas and Gimli, but thank goodness that worked itself out! Again, I wish to say that this was a most well-deserved MEFA win!
Author's reply
Thank you, thank you, PipMer! My whole idea was to bring them all back to canon in the end (and leave the story at that point). I'd never done a story such as this, and I thought it important to keep the original story in mind, even though it was an AU. Thank you again for taking the time to write your review!
PipMer · 11 December 2008 · Chapter 10: Reality
I found this story through the MEFA website that listed this year's winners. So far, I am finding this story very enjoyable, and very well written. The descriptions you paint are so vivid... you certainly deserved to win first place with this one :) Will continue to read, and leave more reviews.
Author's reply
Why thank you, PipMer! I was truly honored by my win in the MEFA competition. I certainly didn't expect First Place!! I appreciate you taking the time to write a review. I hope you continue to enjoy the story.
utfrog · 24 November 2008 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
Thank you for a wonderful story - very powerful.
Author's reply
Why thank you, utfrog! And thank you for taking the time to write. Every review is appreciated.
Linda Hoyland · 20 November 2008 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
This was a truly gripping story.Thank you for a great read.
Author's reply
Ah, you finished the story! I'm so glad. And happy you enjoyed it. Thank you for all your reviews!
Linda Hoyland · 20 November 2008 · Chapter 19: Farewell
You brought the story back to Tolkien's version very nicely here.
Author's reply
Yes, thank you. That was always my intention, to bring it back to Tolkien, and end it at that point. I had no idea what it would become in the meantime, nor that it would take 20 chapters to get there! I'm glad you liked how I managed to steer the story in that direction. It was all easy maneuvering. Thanks for writing.
Sulwing of Mirkwood · 12 November 2008 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
This is a great LotR fan-fic story! You hooked me so well I stayed up until 3 a.m. reading it. I wish it didn't end! Great job on the characters. It was interesting to think about what would have happened if the Three Hunters did keep running through the night. The odds were kind of stacked against them. Start a new story soon please!
Author's reply
Why, Sulwing, thank you for your review! I'm complimented that you stayed up till 3 am to read it! I've read stories that I couldn't put down, so I know how it feels, and I'm honored that you've put me in that pile. That thought was what got the whole thing started for me - what would happen if... And while I've never been one to look for AUs, I now am a big fan. It was so much fun to change one thing and see where everything fell, how things might be different, and what might stay the same. Gandalf ended up with a far longer vacation than everyone cared for him to take [;-) read some of the earlier reviews to understand that comment] but the others didn't fare so well. I did put them back undamaged! Well, fixed up, at least. And I have begun a new story! But I'm at the very beginning, so I can't promise any sort of time for when you'll be seeing chapters posted. Thank you for your interest!
Thundera Tiger · 11 October 2008 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
Okay, I am a horrible person. For some reason, I haven't yet reviewed the epilogue. Actually, now I'm in something of a panic and wondering if I reviewed the last chapter. I'll check in a minute. Anyway, hats off to you, Docmon! The story is finished, and what a finish it is! We're back in canon, everyone is heading out to where they might normally go, and yet there are still a few things left unfinished. Which is something I love in stories. It makes them bigger than they really are. Eowyn's eyes were briefly on Legolas instead of Aragorn. Denethor is already aware of Pippin, or at least to a greater extent than he was in canon. Merry and Pippin bear a greater part of the shadows thanks to their stay in Orthanc. These are small things, but they add nuance to the story as the Fellowship heads out again. And that nuance makes it seem as if your story stretches even further into the future despite the fact that it's drawn to a close. But even so, there is still closure. The story comes to a satisfactory end with the important threads all tied up, and it's something of a testament to destiny and hope that even something like being captured by Saruman hasn't derailed the Quest. Not for long, anyway. Awesome work all around! Thank you so much for sharing!
Author's reply
LOL, so I'm just as horrible for taking so long to reply! It is quite a feeling to have finished such a long story, seeing as it's also my first truly chaptered story. I had to leave some threads hanging there. Gives the imagination something to work with. ;-) But no, let me make it clear, there is no sequel planned. Not at this point, at least. This story wouldn't have gotten off the ground (much less have landed) without your help! All my thanks to you, Thundera, the bestest beta ever! ;-D
Linda Hoyland · 9 October 2008 · Chapter 18: Going Forth
I loved Pippin in this chapter. You bring home in this story just how carefuly Tolkien wove his plot threads.I do hope Eomer will grow to like Aragorn. I loved the Aragorn and Halbarad scene.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! Yes, Pippin got to shine here, didn't he? I did like him taking a stand as he did. And Tolkien not only wove his plot threads carefully - he made it look easy! And easy it is not, I have to admit. Sometimes, the different threads threatened to run away on their own. It makes me have all the more respect for the Professor. :-D Glad you liked the Halbarad scene. Now _that_ was just fun to write!
ziggy · 27 September 2008 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
Oh I am sad it has finished so I do hope you are busily planning another one very soon. I liked the resolution between Gimli and Legolas- Gimli just gets to the point and Legolas has been faffing about with his own rather complicated feelings. I am glad he 'fessed up though as it not like him to cower from the truth, but the torture he suffered had a profound effect on the way he saw himself too- and that was so brilliantly done, and convincing. I like the way Legolas has anticpated what Eowyn will do and recommends her to Merry - he know they will meet again- (I do feel there is a lot more you have to say on the relationship between Legolas and Eowyn - a little plot bunny hopping about somewhere perhaps? He has not really finished with her , has he? And she seems to have barely noticed Aragorn?) I think you have explored the relationships between the characters really effectively- and played around with the ties between them as they are in canon, so those who are taken care of in canon become caretakers themselves of the stronger characters. So Aragorn and Pippin have developed a deeper understanding, with Pippn the caretaker, and Merry becomes Gimli's caretaker. Legolas loses out and gets Gandalf who is not quite as solicitous, but rather effective for an elf who has all sorts of complicated emotions about his capture and torture. What is interesting also, is the way you changed Legolas over the course of this story- he starts out as the strongest in many ways- he defends the others when they are captured, he is the most brutaly abused and stands up to Saruman on every occasion. However, even he crumbles and cannot face going back into Orthanc, he starts at every noise in Fangorn and is the one in most need of healing from Eowyn. But he regains his dignity and resolves the fellowship once more by stating he will follow Aragorn for friendship. Lovely stuff.I have rushed home every Friday to read the latest update and will miss this hugely- so thank you.
Author's reply
Oh thank you, ziggy, for the wonderful review! You sum up Gimli and Legolas so well, including the effect of Legolas's experiences on him. Yes, even the potential for plot bunnies hopping around. I've been ignoring Legolas/Eowyn plot bunnies hopping around my brain, hoping they die of neglect. This was my one indulgence to them, and I chose to alter canon somewhat for it. The luxuries of the AU! How perceptive you are in your analysis of the characters roles - it was just what I set out to do! Pippin was to find himself needing to be strong for Aragorn; Aragorn's struggle was to be in need of such support. To a certain extent, it was the same for Gimli and Merry. How funny that you see Legolas "losing out" with Gandalf. Never quite thought of it that way. But as you say, it was what he needed at the time. He had been pushed to his limit and was forced to accept aid, support, and healing from others. One of my favorite plotlines in a story is to take the strong character(s) and put them in a scenario that pushes them to and beyond their limits. Ideally, this forces them to accept parts of themselves they usually ignore, such as their mortality, weaknesses, etc. The result should be that they grow to be more than they were at the beginning of the story. I suppose if I had continued the story beyond this point, I could have explored more how the characters had changed, not letting the characters simply return to what they once were, but showing how they changed for the long-term. No, sorry, a sequel is not planned right now. ;-) But I am planning - and writing a new story. It might be a while, though. It's turning out to be rather complicated. But it'll show up one day! Thanks again for your review!
Fantasia · 25 September 2008 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
This was a wonderful story. I'll miss it. You really surprised me several times and I enjoyed your characters a lot, especially Legolas. The end was perfect, back to the book. Well, Legolas will be surprised with Eowyn, a Formidable woman, no doubt. I hope that you have more stories coming soon, we are not having too many good ones lately. Thanks to you for writing and to your beta for her suppor (is she updating any of her fics?). Fantasia
Author's reply
Thank you, Fantasia. It's great to hear that I surprised you during the story. And that you'll miss it - well, you're just terrific for this writer's ego! ;-) I actually do have another one in the works. But it may be a while. It's in the early stages, and is turning out to be rather complicated. Thanks for all your reviews!
Linda Hoyland · 25 September 2008 · Chapter 15: Healing
I love your heroic Eowyn. It is great to see Gandalf defeat one of those evil Nazgul!
Author's reply
Thanks, Linda! I'm glad to hear it. I haven't written Eowyn before, so I was a bit worried about this first try. And aren't we all glad Gandalf came back rested from his Caribbean vacation! ;-) Writing a fight scene was a... learning experience. Hopefully the next one will be better. Thanks for writing!
Naledi · 23 September 2008 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
So at last the Company is back on track and each of its members is back on his appointed path. I've agonised over all their trials and rejoiced at their triumphs and now although I'm relieved that everything is back as it should be - as much as is possible, given what they've been through - I'm also sad that I won't have any more of this story to look forward to. Thank you for sharing it with us, and I do hope to see more of your work before too long.
Author's reply
Thank for the review, Naledi! I'm quite happy to hear I've put you through the emotional wringer ;-). If my story can do that, I've done my job. But all stories must end, and all writers must get some sleep! And yes, there's another one in the works! :-D
Cairistiona · 23 September 2008 · Chapter 20: Epilogue
*deep contented sigh* And a small sniffle because we've now reached the end of this tale. I have to say, I never have enjoyed an AU tale more, and it was largely because throughout, canon was still respected and visible at the end of the long dark tunnel. You managed to keep everyone in character, and that made this work. The ending was very poignant, just as so much of Tolkien's stories are ... it gives me that same sort of ache I get when I read LOTR (I can never quite put my finger on what it is about Tolkien that puts that feeling in me. The books and the movies both do that to me). I really like how you handled Aragorn and his doubts. He does not shirk from his destiny but doubts his abilities to attain it and that's what makes Aragorn such an endearing hero to me. I've never been one to enjoy the super-confident, never a moment's doubt type. I like how you have him "appear" at Legolas' side--yes, Rangers are sneaky that way, aren't they? And enjoyed Legolas very laconic summing up of Eowyn, "Formidible." Indeed! Well done, and I hope you have more new tales in the works for us to read someday. :)
Author's reply
Thank you, Cairistiona. It's very satisfying to hear you point out that I accomplished what was important to me while writing this story: to remain "parallel," as I put it, to canon, keeping each character in character, and to handle the story in a similar way as Tolkien would (not inserting behavior, events, or even dialogue he wouldn't bring into M-e). Aragorn did express doubt in himself several times. So I felt that what he went through (Ok, what *I* put him through [beg]) simply expanded on what was established in Aragorn's character. And Rangers are a sneaky bunch, though they can't hope to sneak up on an elf. Glad you enjoyed the closing. I felt it was enough to send the Fellowship on their way. I had to hope readers felt the same! Yes, someday, there will be more. Thanks for all your reviews!
Thundera Tiger · 22 September 2008 · Chapter 19: Farewell
Ah, and the story begins to close. Such a very satisfying chapter! So many loose ends begin to come together, and the remainder of the Fellowship veer back toward canon. I absolutely love the discussion you have here. It flows so naturally! All the considerations and motivations are taken into account. Pippin and Merry want to go with Aragorn and Gimli, while Gandalf's perspective on the bigger picture gives him the ability necessary to counter their desires. Though of course it can't be too easy. I especially loved Aragorn's sigh and Gandalf's reflection that it's the sound anyone makes while trying to win an argument with a hobbit. Loved the humor! But perhaps my favorite part was the resolution between Legolas and Gimli. Yeah, big surprise there. They are my favorites. But this was handled so well! Legolas reveals his own betrayal as part of the reconciliation, and I love Gimli's evaluation of the entire thing as simply being even. It's such a neat and dwarven way to tie it all up, since neither can really be faulted for leaving the other. Awesome chapter, as usual!
Author's reply
Thanks so much, Thundera! I'm glad it's satisfying - I *am* trying to tie up those loose ends! Aragorn has had much experience with hobbits, but not nearly as much as Gandalf. He still has much to learn. Like how stubborn hobbits can be! Legolas and Gimli *had* to reconcile - but as elf and dwarf they had to do it in their own ways. The elf provided the drama. (:-o I didn't say that!) And the dwarf cut through it all to the essentials. I'm not being biased towards dwarves; it's just how I see them each dealing with emotions. Thanks again, Thundera! You've made this all possible!
Larner · 21 September 2008 · Chapter 19: Farewell
I am so glad Legolas could give over his anger and frustration at the end as he did. He went through so much! At least now faith is restored for all of them, and the friendship as well. And at last all begin to set out on the paths appointed for them. Loved the realization that all each did helped in its way to safeguard Frodo and Sam. Yes, wonderful, Docmon.
Author's reply
Oh, Legolas just needed some chill time! ;-) Yes, it has all come full circle, to an extent, at least. Now, it's onward with the Quest. Thank you for all your comments!
Ithilien · 20 September 2008 · Chapter 19: Farewell
It looks like you've put all the pieces, or most of them, into place, as they were meant to be. Now how did Legolas know Merry should seek out Eowyn to give him guidance on choosing his direction? Does the elf also have foresight? It's an interesting thought. I was delighted to see Legolas make his confession. I loved Gimli's argument that they would have found a way to get the elf out. It was a moot point, but it proved he did not bear a grudge. And now the mood has lifted and the Fellowship is once again the Fellowship, all fighting for the same goal. Back to business. I'm going to be very sad to see this story end but obviously it must. You've done a great job on this story!
Author's reply
Thank you so much, Ithilien! It means so much! I'm glad you liked the confession scene. Yes, Gimli's point was moot, but that was the point exactly. Gimli would never have given up. And Legolas was right, they would have lost their chance in the process. But Gimli's loyalty is to the end. Legolas isn't going *so much* on foresight, though I allowed the possibility for that a teensy bit, but more on conclusions he had drawn from his interactions with her. Between words she said and those she did not say, he has seen the impatience and wanting in her for something more. Other than that, she intrigued him, so perhaps he thought she would have worthwhile input for Merry. And he basically had a hunch, let's say. Or we could call it foresight! :-D And now things are nicely wrapped up, ready to go back to business. Just the finishing touches left. It's been a great ride. Thanks again for all your comments!
Linda Hoyland · 19 September 2008 · Chapter 14: Brief Freedom
I loved Eowyn in this gripping chapter.How scary a Nazgul is around!I hope Gandalf will save them all.
Author's reply
So glad you enjoyed my Eowyn! And the Nazgul! Scary is good! I've had a talk with Gandalf. He knows what he needs to do, now that he's shown up!
Cairistiona · 18 September 2008 · Chapter 19: Farewell
Aw, only one more chapter? I suppose the story is coming to a satisfying end, although I wish it would go on and on. This chapter was excellent ... good to see Legolas finally coming to grips with things and it felt so right that he found his strength coming from the company. I enjoyed Gandalf's study of the fellowship and his crotchety moments. Looking forward to the final chapter!
Author's reply
I have never written a story this long, and I think that went on long enough! :-D Though, I had always intended to end the story as it returned to canon, and not go any further. That just took longer than I expected! I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the chapter so much. I was hoping I didn't overdo all the emotional venting. It had to be done, and I would _never_ have left readers without those issues resolved! But I'm not one for so much drama, so I had to break it up with a crotchety wizard and such. The epilogue will send everyone off into canon, and then it's goodbye! Thanks for all your reviews!
Naledi · 17 September 2008 · Chapter 19: Farewell
I am so relieved that Legolas is friends with Gimli again. I really admire him for making that admission to Gimli about not going back to look for his friends when Treebeard rescued him. At last I can believe he's on the mend. All the way through this tale, you've highlighted the hobbits' resilience and courage, and I liked the fact that it was their example, rather than Gandalf's words, that helped Legolas to make up his mind.
Author's reply
Yes, Legolas, and all the rest, are on the mend, as the story returns to canon. It has been returning for the last couple of chapters, but here we have arrived nearly at the merging point. You make such a good point, Naledi. Legolas's answer had to be as it was, because the story had been about their struggle, and not so much their triumph over it. Gandalf gave it his best, but he was not there at those crucial times. Even a wizard can miss the mark on occasion. ;-) Thank you for all your reviews!
Fantasia · 17 September 2008 · Chapter 19: Farewell
The company is together at last! Very emotional Legolas apologizes to Gimli. It seems that l, everything is going back to following the books. I will miss this fic when you finish, we are having less and less good fics around. I love your Legolas, and I want to point that I was always a Faramir fans (Faramir books, of course) Love the description of them n the terrace, and Gandalf, doing his wizard meddling and Merry comments, Orc-size hole indeed. As usual I'm reading this at work and can’t review it properly and I have no time at home, so thanks for this wonderful story and I'll be wanting for updates and new stories as well. Thansk, Fantasia
Author's reply
Thank you, Fantasia! Yes, this chapter was very emotional. I tried to not let it get overboard. ;-) But there was business that had to be attended to. I always aimed to bring the story back to canon, and at first, I actually thought it would come back earlier. It soon was clear it had to run all the way to Edoras. Thank you for your compliments, Fantasia, and for all your reviews!
Ainu Laire · 17 September 2008 · Chapter 19: Farewell
I'm sad to see this story nearing an end, but I am so happy all set itself right. That makes me happy, very happy. These last few chapters have been magnificent. Of course, one must wonder what will happen with the orcs coming to Rohan, and, of course, how Saruman will bail himself out. I cannot remember if Grima is still loose or not, but it would work. Now... someone has to ask this question... what are you planning for your next story(ies)? What can we expect, and when can we expect it? You certainly have a knack at characterization and plots, so there must be more! :)
Author's reply
I'm so glad you're happy, AL. I don't doubt you'd have the Staff Elf after me if you weren't. :-D Well, all loose ends won't be wrapped up so neatly. I have to leave something for the reader to wonder about. Of course, that's also known as a nuzgul, and I freely release any and all nuzgul that may escape from this story. [beg] If you feel nibbling around the ankles, well, you know what it is... I do have something in the works, but it will be quite a while before that sees the light of day. It's still in the early stages. Sorry I can't give more! Thanks for all your reviews!
Thundera Tiger · 8 September 2008 · Chapter 18: Going Forth
Some of my favorite moments in various stories are those moments when people reunite, catch each other up to speed, and prepare for whatever comes next. It's a time to gather momentum, redirect, and allow for some much needed healing/venting. And I think you handle that perfectly here. Aragorn gets a chance to really talk about what's happened. He hasn't even shared much of this with Gandalf, so it's good to see him get it out in the open. I really do like the response from Elladan and Elrohir: equal parts exasperation and concern. The concern really comes out toward the end of Aragorn's tale as they realize just how serious Aragorn's predicament was, and you get a good balance going between the attitude of older brothers/mentors and the attitude of concern/vengeance/here-we-go-again. Halbarad was also a nice addition to the mix, and he plays exactly as I would expect another Ranger to play. He's a quiet presence, but you never quite forget that he's around. And Pippin definitely shined by the end of the chapter. It was good to see him stand up for what he knew and make an impact on the war council. Awesome chapter!
Author's reply
Yes, I needed to write this reunion as much for myself as for the characters! And it is the first time Aragorn's said this much about their experience. It doesn't go smoothly for him, unfortunately ;-). If only the big brothers hadn't been there at that point! Glad you like my Halbarad. It's not like we have much to go on for his character, after all! Thanks for everything!
Fantasia · 8 September 2008 · Chapter 18: Going Forth
You know, I was thinking Who else is coming to Rohan? Are they having a party over there? Seems that all Middle-Earth people have decided to visit Rohan, it is getting crowded there.. I wasn't expecting the twins and Halbarad, Oh well, you are always unpredictable. Love Pippn defending Strider. Worry about Legolas not being strong enough to go with them to Gondor, I supposed that the twins can help, they are healers too. Eomer reaction to Aragorn is different; I don't see how they will be as brother, if they don't fight together in Rohan. I guess that Pippin will go with Gandalf to Gondor because Denethor saw him. I'm not coherent, but I'm work pretend that I'm working and reviewing this chapter. Love your story, keep posting, Thanks,
Author's reply
Oh, the gathering is over. ;-) But I had to add the twins and Halbarad! In canon, they find Aragorn on the plains. But in my story, they would miss them, as the Three Hunters were not in that convenient spot where they met. It was a logical guess, I thought, that the Grey Company might go to Edoras next. Just keeping close to canon! Yes, Pippin was fun to write there. And it's all about what I bring back to canon, and what I leave as AU at the close of this, isn't it? [beg] Thank you so much for your review!