The Farewell in Gondor by Larner
SurgicalSteel · 2 March 2008 · Chapter 4: IV
Somehow, I'd expected Frodo to die in Minas Tirith. So he took ship on the Anduin instead!
Author's reply
Aren't you glad? And I'd think that Frodo would be horrified to think of being laid in a tomb in the Hallows, myself! Heh!
harrowcat · 2 March 2008 · Chapter 4: IV
It is no good Larner. I really must remember to save this until i get home. Crying at work always provokes difficult questions!
Author's reply
I'm sorry, Harrowcat! Don't mean to get you all weepy! Hope your folks are better, and that the pressure sore is healing.
Kitty · 2 March 2008 · Chapter 3: III
Oh, you didn’t forget that in this AU there has to be another way how Aragorn gets his new steed! :-) You know, it is touching to see how much the people of Minas Tirith care for Frodo and are concerned for him. And I was shaking my head as Frodo woke up and his first thought was how exhausted the others had to be. It’s about time he quit worrying about others and thinks of himself first! So Frodo has only waited to see his friends again? Well, it seems to strengthen him, and sleeping surrounded by all his loved ones has to be good for him. It was interesting that he questioned everyone available about what they thought he ought to do now, but Legolas is right – Frodo has to make the decision for his own sake, not for the wishes of others. (Not that I doubt their common acceptance of him sailing helped him to finally accept the gift!) Frodo truly did think of everything, didn’t he? To make sure all these papers were prepared and that Pippin is bringing them with him to Gondor ... Hm ... from what Sam tells here, I believe Will and the others may think of him as a good Mayor rather easily, after he took over things Gordolac should have done. No Frodo there this time in whose shadow Sam could be hiding ;-)
Author's reply
"All things work to the Good..." goes the scripture, and I like to think most would turn out well in spite of the incompetence of Gordolac Whitfoot. So, how would things change in this instance? And without Frodo there, Sam's own abilities shone out the more as you've pointed out--at least for those who truly know what all the Mayor ought to see done. And I agree that the common acceptance of his going undoubtedly helped him accept that it was right that he accept this grace. Am so glad you had the chance to read it--and now the next chapter is up.
Stefania · 29 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
Good set up of your AU elements so far, Bonnie. Frodo has had a heart attack? Yikes. That's terribly upsetting. I'm eager to see how Frodo's life in Minas Tirith has unfolded, Gondor babe that I am. - Steff
Author's reply
Am so glad you like it, Stefania. Hope you've been following it and have seen some of how I've envisioned Frodo's acceptance within Gondor. Many of those who send flowers to Frodo in the Citadel are described in The King's Commission, The Ties of Family, The Acceptable Sacrifice, or some of my short stories in the Moments in Time collection. The peacock feathers refer to events in Iridescence and Unbelief. I love Gondor, also; but love the Shire at least as much.
Claudia · 29 February 2008 · Chapter 3: III
I really really like this. A lot. I ADORE any and all Frodo and Aragorn friendship fics, and I had actually been thinking of some time doing one post-quest. This is so sad and angsty and I love it!
Author's reply
I hope you continue to do so. Thank you.
cookiefleck · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 3: III
Hmmm, I am wondering what you have up your sleeve, as I expect some sort of twist from the obvious "he goes or he dies and everyone is sad" options. This was a moving chapter. It was distressing to see Frodo so ill.
Author's reply
I don't know that there's a good deal of surprise in this one, unfortunately. I admit I don't see it as one of my most original stories, of course. But am so glad you found it moving. I appreciate hearing that. Thanks.
Agape4Gondor · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 3: III
So now you bring on the angst! The 'first look' at Frodo's hand in so long was very touching and sad; the well wishes of the people of Gondor; the 'red ink' (lol) and the truckload of paperwork; and finally the leaving of Bag End to Sam. Lovely chapter.
Author's reply
Thank you so much, Agape. And there will be "red ink" when Hobbits are involved, of course. Thank you again.
Andrea · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 3: III
Unlike SurgicalSteel I don't see yet where this is going! There are still two possibilities. Frodo will make it to Tol Eressea, or he won't! I fear the latter is more likely, but I would be glad if I'm wrong :) I loved all the bits of information we received, from the people who sent Frodo flowers (all of them appearing in your stories) to the documents Pippin brought with him for Frodo to sign. You even included Fosco and his sister. Now, I really hope Lord Elrond's draughts are as good as their reputation!
Author's reply
Well, just how much anyone sees of where it's going is still open, of course. But Elrond is there now, and there is some strengthening going on. Ther's still hope, of course.
SurgicalSteel · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 3: III
I see where this is going. *reaches for hankies*
Author's reply
I hope you don't mind them being there by you. Hope that the next two chapters please you.
Linda Hoyland · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 3: III
It's a very long time since I've read anything as moving as this.Very well written and an emotional experience to read.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda. It's an honor to know my writing is able to move folks so.
Linda Hoyland · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
So many what ifs.I guess we will never know what was right for Frodo.It is very interesting to wonder.
Author's reply
I'll agree with that, Linda. We at least get to play with different scenarios as writers of fanfic, however, which gives us a chance to see how it MIGHT have gone.
cookiefleck · 26 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
Interesting chapter. This is really very AU, as it's hard for me to wrap my mind around the idea that the hobbits wouldn't have thought Frodo would be best off in the Shire, especially Sam whose honed instinct is to care and protect Frodo. I hope Sam, Merry and Pippin don't suffer too much guilt, though.
Author's reply
Well, I WARNED you it was AU, didn't I? Now, to see what happens as they reach Gondor....
Agape4Gondor · 25 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
Great chapter - though their destination in shrouded in sadness... I had to laugh quite often. Very job with this.
Author's reply
Glad it's not all angst. There's a need to be by Frodo's side, to comfort and be comforted. And Pippin remains Pippin, of course!
Agape4Gondor · 25 February 2008 · Chapter 1: I
Oh my! I've been dying to read this. Something about it just spoke to my heart - and today I was finally able to cram in a moment. I love it! It's wonderful. Going on to the next chapter! *claps hands in delight*
Author's reply
Am so glad you do. A possible AU, and perhaps not as sad as many anticipate.
harrowcat · 25 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
Am sneaking in and snatching reading time at the moment Larner. Really great to have such wonderful speculations to enjoy.
Author's reply
I certainly hope it proves to be a wonderful set of speculations. Still praying for your mother and dad. Love to Jet!
Queen Galadriel · 24 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
Oh, no...He's going to die! Again! But you surprised me last time, and so far as I know you've never written anything with a completely sad ending, so I have faith in you. *tries to smile* Interesting how things worked out with Frodo not there. I can't believe they argued him into staying though. In their place, I could not have done it. That coming close to begging would have completely undone me, I think, but they couldn't know that this would happen. The thought of Bag End, lonely and empty, is just so sad, though. Oh, they have to make it in time, they just have to! This is going to be a tearjerker and probably tough to me right now (angst and drama, the story of my life...*sighs*), but I know it's going to be beautiful and amazing too, and because of that I look forward to more, though it's just wrong to say one looks forward to a death and that's what it sounds like, I look forward to seeing how you write this and what way you find to make it shine as brightly as the other gems in your library turned treasure trove. God bless, Galadriel :)
Author's reply
Ah, don't be so certain, my Lady. The grey ship also speeds southward, as swiftly as Ulmo's currents and Osse's help and Manwe's winds can take it. Perhaps not as angsty as some stories I've written. And angst does appear to fill your life! A joyful Lent to you!
Kitty · 24 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
Ah, good. I was worried Merry and Pippin were going to be left out. They have to come, too. Of course Gandalf had to be one of these who went to Crickhollow! And it is nice to have at least one of the twins in the story. Now I think I can see where that's going and how it is changing the story that Frodo remained behind. Hm ... some things may have worked out better if he had returned to the Shire, but it is certainly understandable that the other hobbits hoped that he would heal in the presence of Aragorn and Arwen. Elrond and Elros being fraternal twins instead of identical ones is an intriguing idea. It could be, and would probably explain their different choices better. In any case, it was an interesting talk about osanwë and the connection between twins. That reminds me - some years ago here was the amazing case of twin sisters, of whom one was pregnant. When the baby was about to be born, the *not pregnant* sister got the labour pains, and the pregnant sister had to give birth without being in labour.
Author's reply
I've heard so much of similar things, although this is the first time I've heard of the labor pains going to the non-pregnant sister. A friend in Las Vegas experienced sympathy pregnancy symptoms when his wife became pregnant, and his started before they knew they were expecting and were worse than hers were. Those who are truly close often seem to share such things. But I do suspect Elros and Elrond were fraternal twins, much as my Aragorn and Gilorhael would have been. And Merry and Pippin would have been summoned, I think, just as was Sam. Frodo needs to say goodbye to all three, just as he did in canon, I think.
Andrea · 24 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
Things worked out nearly the same as they would have if Frodo had returned to the Shire, that's true. But only nearly! Saruman provoked Merry, not Frodo, to kill him. And Merry did not send him away like Frodo did. Saruman was shot, but he did not experience Frodo's mercy which was in his eyes the worst humiliation he could receive, or that's how I see the original scene. With Frodo not acting as deputy Mayor it took more time to review all the documents. But Timono was arrested anyway. Merry and Pippin ended up in Crickhollow with and without Frodo. But I was surprised about Sam's remark to Gandalf: Good thing as the Master’s brighter’n the Mayor and Thain both and set up a gaol of sorts to hold him. He does not seem to have a high opinion of Paladin Took, does he? And he seems to have forgotten what is "proper" to say and what not. What leads him to say that, I wonder? Anyway, they have little time to discuss such matters. They have to reach Frodo as soon as possible, before it's too late. I'm looking forward to reading more!
Author's reply
I suspect the very thought of the Thain not believing his son would lower his standing in Sam's eyes. The very important things I think the Creator would see working out as best could be done; but the Shire doesn't have Frodo's model of intelligence and compassion to follow this time, so many things end up more muddled. But I always suspected that Saradoc was in many ways steadier and more far-seeing than his brother-in-law; Paladin may or may not have inherited the "Took-sight" but he does tend to go a bit overboard when his emotions are riled. Now, to the rest of the ride.
SurgicalSteel · 24 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
Interesting that the hobbits were the one to talk Frodo into staying in Minas Tirith. I also like the notion that perhaps Elros and Elrond were fraternal, rather than identical, twins. The different choices they made make much more sense that way... Odd, random thought. It's known that fraternal twins can result from different - hm. I'll use my characters usual phrase and say 'marital acts.' Wonder what it would have felt like for a young elf-woman who knows she's conceived to realize that she's conceived again? /random
Author's reply
Yes--sometimes it's possible for fraternal twins to be conceived separately, I'm told. That would be a question--how might Elwing have experienced the situation, had that happened?
Soledad · 24 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
So, Gandalf was against Frodo staying in Minas Tirith, while all three of the hobbits were for it? Interesting. And I like what you did with Elladan and Elrohir. Elrond & Elros were not identical twins, eh? Makes sense, I think, or else they might not have been able to make such different choices. Looking forward where all this will lead. Knowing your work, it will surely be exciting and surprising.
Author's reply
I'd always thought of those two as fraternal, while Elladan and Elrohir appear to have been identical. Certainly Feanor's twins appear to have been identical, and almost interchangeable. As for Dior's sons--I don't remember hearing one way or another. I know twins run in the family, and wanted a pair myself. However, instead I got the almost twins of stepson and adopted daughter who were only two and a half months apart in age. Not quite what I'd envisioned. I rather think that Gandalf would have recognized that Frodo was needed by the Shire. Qne we'll see where it leads.
Fiondil · 24 February 2008 · Chapter 2: II
It's interesting to see how things worked out nearly the same but not simply because Frodo ends up not returning to the Shire with the other Hobbits. An interesting discussion about twins and ósanwë. BTW, it's "My brother and I". Sorry... English teacher. *grin* Looking forward to seeing how this works out.
Author's reply
Have you never noticed that sometimes we start writing and spelling like our students? My worst year for spelling was the year I taught third grade! Heh! But some things would certainly have been different, don't you think? Frodo's steadiness and compassion would have given a definite model for others, I'd think. Had a friend who always seemed to know what her sister was up to, and was almost always right, although they weren't twins. Reports on twins do indicate this is often very common, particularly in identicals.
Soledad · 22 February 2008 · Chapter 1: I
I must say that Rosie Cotton is certainly the most understanding and generous women in Middle-earth. Few others would understand - and accept that their hubby would leave them alone for a friend, and that with a small babe, no less. I'm properly intrigued about the path this AU is going to take.
Author's reply
I agree, Soledad. I so love Rosie, and am glad that the Master gave her to us along with Sam. But she's going to try to insure her Sam comes back to her--and so she gives him THAT kiss....
Radbooks · 22 February 2008 · Chapter 1: I
Oh, what an intriguing start. Never really considered that Frodo might just stay in Minas Tirith because the Shire seemed such a part of him, but this is a neat idea. Of course Sam is sensitive enough and would feel Frodo's need even from that distance. What a wonderful elf you sent to carry him to Gondor!!! Glorfindel is a good choice. :) I'm looking forward to reading the next part of this tale.
Author's reply
It was a distinct possibility, so I decided to play with it. How it was he was convinced to do so will be revealed in the next chapter. And Glorfindel was the proper one to send for Sam, I felt. My prayers are still going up for your parents, particularly your mom. Love to Jet.
Baggins Babe · 22 February 2008 · Chapter 1: I
A very intriguing idea and one I have sometimes thought about. Poor Frodo - hopefully Aragorn and Sam can join forces to help him. I love the bond between Frodo and Sam which means Sam knows when he is needed, plus your understanding Rosie and the Gaffer. And Glorfindel has arrived! Wonderful!
Author's reply
It's interesting to see so many agree that this is a possibility they've considered as well as me. As for the Gaffer--he understands Sam's desire to offer service and fealty where it's well received, while Rosie understands Sam's love--although she does make certain he goes off with a good reminder of HER love for him, to insure he'll wish to return to him. And I felt Glorfindel was the proper one to fetch Sam.
Linda Hoyland · 21 February 2008 · Chapter 1: I
What an interesting idea that Frodo might stay in Gondor and something i've thought about.A Nice dramatic opening leaves me eagerly awaiting more.
Author's reply
I'd wondered about it, too, Linda--obviously! Am glad you appreciate the opening.