“Just Éomer, please,” the young man said gently. “I am not your king, Frodo. I scarcely feel as if I am anyone’s king; but I will do my best, as will Aragorn.”
I love how you write Éomer here... and Legolas' way to speak the truth without really telling it makes me smile. Very Jesuit-ish. *wide grin*
Author's reply
Thanks, Mona. I think that over the long lifetime of an elf, he or she would probably be able to draw on many past experiences to assess a situation quickly. For them, there is probably very little new under the Sun!
Dreamflower
· 16 May 2008
· Chapter 2: Safeguarded
Oh, this is going to be fun very comforting! Aragorn will have to stay all tucked up there with the hobbits, and Frodo will have to stay all tucked up with him as well, to lend verisimilitude to Legolas' story! Clever Elf!
And poor Aragorn, he'll have to put up with hobbits putting blankets on him, and snuggling with him and feeding him and telling him stories and generally coddling him to within an inch of his life. Such a fate! ;-)
I like the reasons Eomer thought it important to keep the new king's illness a secret. He would know better than anyone how quickly gossip could spread insecurity!
I also loved Frodo thanking Roheryn at the end--so nice, and very Frodo-ish!
*rubs hands in anticipation*grin*hobbits looking after Aragorn...*
Author's reply
Yes, poor Aragorn. Hobbit cuddling and comfort and blankets... life can be so cruel. Thank you, Dreamflower! :D
grumpy
· 10 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Well Frodo is in guite a pickel, what to do, when the big guy goes down ill, and not a healer or hospital in sight. Love how Frodo wanted a horn to summon aid. Hope the horse puts on the brakes when it hets camp
Author's reply
Frodo's taking the only action he can think of. Ride, Roheryn, ride!
Antane
· 9 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Oh, poor Aragorn and poor Frodo. :( Don't keep us hanging them - and us - over this cliff too long!
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
Sorry about the cliff, Antane! I'll do my best to get everyone safe and dry and on the road to recovery as soon as possible. :)
Lady Sandry
· 8 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
An ill Aragorn! What a novel idea! I mean, of course, there was Quarantined. But he seems to be invincible after he becomes king, which is silly. I mean...I'm not expressing myself very well. I think it may be because *looks* it's 2:30 am...how did that happen? My point is that this is a great story idea, and I can't wait to see how it goes! Plus I'm thrilled that you still write, the rush of LotR fanfics seems to be slowing the more time passes after the movies. I love your stories, and I'm glad you haven't run out of inspiration! Plus, this fic promises a lot of Aragorn, my one true love. *looks around* I hope my boyfriend didn't hear that. :)
Can't wait for more. I swear I'll be more coherent next chapter. *hugs you*
Author's reply
Thank you, Lady Sandry. I'm thrilled that I still write, too! After each story I wonder if it was my last, and then... Well, so far so good. I've had to slow down my writing due to wrist problems, but hope to never have to stop entirely.
Glad you're enjoying this! Yes, even Aragorn needs tending once in awhile, poor dear. :)
*hugs you back*
Nilmandra
· 7 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
LOL, I have to admit to some nervousness at those plot bunnies! A little Aragorn h/c is good though, and I look forward to seeing what you do with this.
Author's reply
Don't worry, this is a typical Shirebound story! All plot bunnies bow to my will but no puppies this time, alas. :)
Agape4Gondor
· 7 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Wow - what an incredible chapter. I loved the lightness of it and Aragorn and Frodo being able to have some time together - but especially that they had some time away from the hustle and bustle of what that HUGE camp must have been like...
But then for Aragorn to become so deathly ill... Needless to say, I'm grateful his stead accepted Frodo - and I do so hope that the Hobbit gets help in time. I don't like the thought of Aragorn alone in Ithilien so soon after the battle with no one to help if danger comes!
Yikes!
Author's reply
I agree, that camp must be quite a wild scene with boats, horses, supplies coming and going, all the men (wounded and unwounded), tents, kitchens... No wonder Frodo, after the quite Shire and months in the wilderness, can't quite cope with it yet.
Glad you're enjoying it, and thank you for reviewing!
Iolanthe Rosa
· 7 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
What a good idea to turn the caregiving tables. What I think will be interesting about this story is seeing post-Quest Frodo in action, with all his hard-earned strength and wisdom. Can't wait for the next installment!
Author's reply
Frodo in action, with all his hard-earned strength and wisdom
I *like* how you say that! *grins*
Linda Hoyland
· 7 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
What a great idea for a story! I always felt that Aragorn's labours must have taken a great toll on him and in my "Hidden Days of Healing" had him collapse soon after saving the Hobbits after the battle,but he's had superhuman strength at that time in all the stories I've read.
I wonder what is wrong with poor Aragorn here?
I'm greatly looking forward to seeing how Eomer and the Hobbits look after him. It is always a treat to find a new story from you.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda. Yes, even the strongest reach their breaking point, but at least Aragorn is surrounded by friends and the best of care. I think it's important for the Small Folk to help tend the Big Folk once in awhile. :)
Author Reply: Linda, I just re-read your story. We definitely have a few similar ideas, as you'll see as mine unfolds. I really enjoyed re-visiting yours. :)
Gentle Hobbit
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Oh my. Ride, Frodo, ride!
This is a bit of a switch: Frodo being the helper and Aragorn needing the help. I'm looking forward to seeing where this goes. Also, I really liked the feeling of Frodo's longing to stay in that beautiful place, even though the weather was turning and Aragorn seeming "off his feed". It felt very strong - the sounds of water and of birds, the rich, fresh colours of grass and trees and stone, and even the gathering clouds seemed to give it all texture and exquisite clarity.
Author's reply
Oh my, thank you. I'm never that confident about my ability to write descriptively, so I really appreciate that. Yes, a bit of role-reversal is fun to explore. :)
eiluj
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Lovely idea! So much happened in Ithilien that we've never been told about....
Apparently it's not enough that you've afflicted poor Aragorn with both dizziness and a stomach upset -- unless I miss my guess, he's about to be rained on, doubtless adding a chill to his other problems! (And poor Frodo will have to ride back in the rain: are you sure you don't have sinister plans in mind for the hobbit as well?)
Author's reply
So much happened in Ithilien that we've never been told about
I agree! The reason I didn't label this as "AU" is that so much *could* have happened in those few weeks that the Professor didn't go into detail about.
Sinister? Me? I just like to wrap folks in warm blankies, that's all...
Lily Baggins
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
jgkdsjgkdjskjjjjjjjjjjj----oh my gosh, oh my gosh... *hyperventilates*
This is perfect, this is lovely---this is awesome!!! It's absolutely full of Frodo and Aragorn friendship, and yet it's such a treat to see Frodo as the responsible caretaker here.
I do so enjoy the "pictures" you paint of the beauty surrounding Frodo and Aragorn. The peace and quiet and beauty really contrasts with the fear and panic Frodo feels toward the end of the chapter... very nice. And Frodo is so hobbity and adorable here as he chit-chats, and very observant, too! Always thinking of others, he is.
And EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE the convulsive vomiting!!!!!!! Can I beg for more of that in the story? *grovels* That is, maybe Aragorn being unable to keep most of his food or drink down as others are caring for him? Guh, I would die for more vomiting, lol! I guess I am pretty darned strange. :) But it makes him so helpless and vulnerable ... omg so delicious.
I'm babbling. Yes, babbling.
I just can't wait for the next chapter---I say you deserve a week off from work to do nothing but write this story and think about hobbits!!!!
Author's reply
Lily, I'm so thrilled you like this. I never would have even thought of this setting or plotline without your lovely bunnies. I can't promise anything, since I'm taking things one chapter at a time, but hopefully I can continue to craft a story that you'll enjoy. Aragorn deserves TLC, and Frodo deserves to be in a position to make decisions about things. *nods*
Oooh, time off work to think and write about hobbits and rangers and shivering and tending and... *happy sigh*
BlueEyedElf
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Okay, I'm hooked!
Wow, that was intense. Whatever this is, Aragorn was hit awfully suddenly. That can't be good.
I hope for Aragorn's sake it doesn't rain before Frodo gets back with reinforcements. He doesn't need pneumonia on top of what he already has. (Thought that would be a great angst fest). LOL
Frodo is great here. It was really brave of him to be willing to ride the big, fast horse. It was also very brave of Roheryn to let him. I like how you made Roheryn a character, instead of just a prop.
I will be looking forward to the next chapter. Hopefully, I will not have to endure the suspense very long.
Author's reply
Thank you for your very nice comments. Yes, I like to imagine that Middle-earth consists of many diverse characters we can explore and embrace -- and that definitely includes horses. Our dear Frodo is a practical, as well as courageous, hobbit and friend. He saw the fastest way to get help, and had to attempt it.
Periantari
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
I love the beginning so far-- the description of the area and Frodo's comfort are two highlights for me. And *of course* when poor Aragorn started getting sick-- that was pretty intense and exciting. And brave Frodo going to seek help was awesome as well.
Can't wait for more! =)
Author's reply
I can't wait to *write* more! Thanks, Peri An. Frodo's comfort is always very important, as you know. :)
Neilia
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Oh! You did it again, Shirebound. My heart is in my throat and I am riding with Frodo trying to keep him from falling off...and I am with Aragorn trying to keep him awake and dry...oh...more soon? :o Love and hugs, Neilia
Author's reply
They both appreciate your help and companionship, Neilia! Thank you. I'll try to gallop towards another chapter as soon as possible. :)
Elflingimp
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
I like the beginning of this story, can't wait for more. Deb
Author's reply
Thank you very much.
pebbles66
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Yay! A new story from Shirebound!
Author's reply
Thanks, Pebbles! :)
Andrea
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Wow! That's a promising beginning!
I read many stories in which Frodo turned seriously ill and Aragorn was there to help him (by you, for example). But this time their roles are reversed!
I'm quite sure, Roheryn would never drop Frodo. So, there will be help in no time. But I fear there will be complications!
I'm looking forward to reading the "ccc"-part :)
Author's reply
Thanks, Andrea. Yes, a bit of role reversal, just for fun.
Ahhhh, the 'ccc'. My favorite part! :)
Cuthalion
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Noro lim? No wonder that Frodo remembers the words. And poor Aragorn! I'm really glad that after a lot of hurt comfort will inevitably follow - like always in your tales - or I would really be worrying now. *smiles*
Cúthalion
Author's reply
Well, you know me... I could never put anyone through a *lot* of hurt. Just enough to warrant lots of comfort, and maybe some interesting revelations (that I have yet to work out, LOL).
Ainu Laire
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Ooh! You just read my mind! I just needed some nice Aragorn h/c, and look at what you came up with! I love hobbity heroes, too :)
I remember that Aragorn's healing leaves him weak and vulnerable- I wonder if all the energy he spent on Frodo, Sam, and Pippin left his immune system down so he caught a really nasty bug? I can certainly see it happening.
I imagine Frodo did not like leaving Aragorn all alone; Roheryn, too, must have been reluctant. I love how you've portrayed his relationship with the horse ^^
I cannot wait for more! Don't make us wait for too long :)
Author's reply
Thanks, Suvi. A little h/c to brighten the day!
You're a good guesser, but don't tell anyone. Shhhhh.... :)
Idril Celebrindal
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Oh I have to agree with everyone else, what a way to get us into the story!
"Without Warning" indeed!
Thanks for another new story to look forward to!
Idril
Author's reply
Thank you! Somehow this first chapter just started galloping along as fast as Roheryn. :)
Cairistiona
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Wow! This story's off and running right off the bat. I really like how you've written both characters--they seem to leap from the page, fully alive. Now let's just hope poor Aragorn stays that way....
Author's reply
Thank you very much. LOL, characters in my stories *always* "stay that way"! And usually after a heaping helping of comfort, healing, and supportive friends.
Larner
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
This sounds VERY serious, if Aragorn himself is so violently ill, and the worst takes him so swiftly! Noro lim indeed, Roheryn!
Author's reply
Roheryn is flying like the wind! Aragorn is at least surrounded by friends and companions, and not alone in the Wild. :)
Sila Lumenn
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Oh, this is good! You sure know how to keep us anxious for more. :-)
Author's reply
Awww, thank you. :)
Dreamflower
· 6 May 2008
· Chapter 1: Without Warning
Oh my goodness! What an exciting beginning!
I like the first part of the chapter, just the two of them enjoying their friendship and the peace and quiet. I could just imagine the scene as they rode.
But good heavens--what a sudden reversal! (And, of course, I *LOVE* that it's Frodo who is taking care of him, and bravely going for help. When those he loves are in trouble, Frodo always proves his competence and strength of will!)
Author's reply
I don't think Frodo and Aragorn would have had many opportunities to just enjoy one another's company without other people around (or a dangerous Quest to accomplish). I like giving them the chance.
And it *is* fun to reverse roles once in awhile. *grins*