Hearing "I am fine" from Aragorn by now really makes me want to grab him and shake him hard until he finally confesses that he's *anything* but fine! *shakes head* Yay at Gandalf's appearance, though! Between Gandalf and Elrond, Aragorn won't have an easy time trying to pretend he is 'fine'.
I wonder why Aragorn's condition is actually getting worse since he's in Rivendell - perhaps the part of him that's been influenced by the Nazgul is allergic against Vilya. ;-) I don't like at all that he doesn't seem to care about his own health at all anymore. I very much hope Gandalf won't believe him. It seems as if a part of Aragorn actually wants to share the burden of his dark thoughts. *nudges him encouragingly*
I hope the next chapter starts with a loud, disbelieving snort from Gandalf. *bg* Loved it! :)
Almut
Author's reply
Thank you, Almut! You know, I think the general consensus here with this chapter is that *everyone* wants to give Aragorn a good shaking... and I would have to agree. You're right in that part of Aragorn really does want to share the entire burden, but the "leader" in him, that same part of his character that is usually a strength--his selfless, his looking after others' needs before his own--really is working against him here. And of course, he's feverish from the arm wound and hasn't slept (much) in ages. So there are a multitude of factors working against him and against his thinking clearly. I don't think Vilya is probably much help with all that's going on with him... although yes, like Aragorn thought, you'd think it would have some influence, but I think probably only once Elrond actually uses it. But perhaps it does still have a bit of effect--Aragorn might be dead by now if he were alone out in the Wilds. Hard to say, really, other than Aragorn's in very bad shape--it's only his incredible stamina--the same stamina that helped him run all those leagues after Merry & Pippin, and helped him ride all those miles with the Army of the Dead to Pelargir-- that's keeping him going right now.
Thanks as always for the review! And yes, we'll see what Gandalf has to say about that "I'm fine" assertion! *grin*
BeeGee
· 6 April 2009
· Chapter 20: Splintered Fragments
You know, I love this story, I really do. But I think if Arwen were with Aragorn right now, she would give him a little swat across the head! :D I think she'd say something like.."Manwe's Breath, get over yourself, boy, don't be so stubborn!" Of course we know he is under the influence of the Black Breath, so I'm giving him leeway here. Hopefully Gandalf won't be so easily fooled, and will help! He will, yes? I know, I'll have to wait til Thursday....
Author's reply
Thank you, BeeGee! I'm glad you're enjoying the story, and yes, I think we're all about ready to give Aragorn that swat. ;) But you're right... he's not exactly in his right mind, is he? Thanks for leaving a review, and yes, next installment should come on Thursday. :)
Casso
· 6 April 2009
· Chapter 20: Splintered Fragments
Thats it! I have totally run out of patience with Aragorn. Or maybe with everyone else, from Glorfy and the twins, Halbarad, Elrond and now Gandalf. Someone needs to take charge and deal with Aragorns hopelessness. Obviously he can't deal with it himself. Can't anyone see that he is exhausted, injured, desperate and suffering from his encounter with the Nazgul?
Where the hell is the great Elrond? He needs to get a move on and see to his Son. Right now.
PS, Great story, you have really got me in.
Author's reply
LOL! Thank you, Casso! I'm glad you're enjoying the story even if Aragorn and everyone else is about ready to drive you over the edge, from the sounds of it. Alas, Halbarad is unfortunately currently unconscious or at best semi-conscious, and Elrond is busy with said unconscious and/or semi-conscious Ranger. Glorfindel, well, he's still playing Chase-A-Wraith with Elladan and Elrohir. So that leaves Erestor, who really doesn't have excuse other than Aragorn's really good at hiding illness, and Gandalf.
Obi-Gandalf, you're our only hope!!! Oops, sorry. Didn't mean to cross over...
Thanks for the review!
Larner
· 6 April 2009
· Chapter 20: Splintered Fragments
Ah--that one little white lie could destroy him if his father doesnt get to him soon! Love the details here!
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner! This chapter really does have a lot of detail... so much so, in fact, that this chapter and the next were originally one chapter that I realized was just too big. So you'll get the rest of the conversation hopefully on Thursday. :) Thank you for your kind words, always!
Aragorn is an idiot, that's what he is :P Good thing he is surrounded by people just as stubborn as he is and will wiggle it out of him soon.
And, if not, Halbarad will be sure to tell Elrond or Gandalf anyways :P
Author's reply
LOL... yes, I think his days of hiding how bad a state he's in are numbered, probably to less than one now. Thanks for the review!
Fantasia
· 6 April 2009
· Chapter 20: Splintered Fragments
I just want to slap Aragorn...again. I know, he is under the Black Breath, but he needs HELP!!! Where is Elrond? I know that Gandalf will help too.
Just a funny thought that I have, when Aragorn was in his room looking his bed, I was thinking, no way I will let him to sleep in that bed without taking a bath first, it is just that I was finishing my family laundry and was folding the clothes, so I wasn’t feeling that bad for him sleeping on the floor, sorry, not very sympathetic with poor Aragorn...no melancholic this time...waiting for more
Thanks, Fantasia
Author's reply
LOL! Fantasia, your reviews always leave me smiling and this is no exception. No sympathy for dear Aragorn flinging himself to the floor in a fit of self-loathing angst, eh? LOL I'm spending the day at laundry myself so I can understand where you're coming from, most definitely.
And yes, it's a bit of irony that here Aragorn finally gets to Rivendell... and Elrond is too busy with Halbarad to help him... and Halbarad was the one that wanted to get Aragorn to Rivendell to start with... ack! The irony circles 'round and 'round.
Thanks as always for reading and for reviewing. :)
Calenlass
· 6 April 2009
· Chapter 20: Splintered Fragments
"No, not defeat," he whispered.
This is very "Aragorn." :)
Poor man...coping with trauma and nightmares. Never a good combination.
I needed this chapter today to counteract the icky weather. Hope you can find time to breathe and relax!
~Cal
Author's reply
Thank you, Cal! Glad to have assisted with the icky weather. :)
That line does sort of say "Aragorn", doesn't it? I see him as someone who would be hard pressed to ever admit full defeat... and even in the midst of this struggle, he's beaten down but not really defeated, even if he's starting to worry that perhaps this time he is. Complex man, our Ranger.
Thanks for the review!
Larner
· 4 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
I think the time has come for Elrond to work rather quicker on Halbarad that he might come the sooner to Aragorn, who in some ways is the worse hurt. Someone needs a hope infusion.
Love the story of the willow!
Author's reply
A hope infusion, I love it! LOL That's definitely what Aragorn needs. Glad you liked the willow aspect of this... it's based a bit on my own fondness for willows, dating back to childhood and that big old lovely willow in the front yard. :) Thanks for the review!
Linda Hoyland
· 4 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
PS. I forgot to add that I love willows too. These grow along the riverbank in my town and I always think they are where Aragorn and Faramir sunbathed and Shelob's daughter dwelet in the roots!
http://www.freewebs.com/lindahoyland/backgroundinformation.htm
Author's reply
What a lovely picture! Yes, that's a bit what I visualized with the willow, although my willow has fronds that grow all the way to the ground to create a bit of a secret room... I had a willow like that in my yard as a child and it was a wonderful place to play. :)
Linda Hoyland
· 4 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
Poor Aragorn, he seems to have reached the depths of utter despair. I hope Elrond can help him once halbarad is out of danger. I eagerly await what happens next.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda--yes, Aragorn's just about at his nadir, isn't he? And Elrond too busy saving Halbarad... it's a hard spot for him. I think it would be hard on a good day to know that the fate of the world rests upon you; Aragorn's far from having a good day, and the weight is becoming more than he can really bear, I fear. Thanks for the review!
Linda Hoyland
· 4 April 2009
· Chapter 18: Ride Through a Nightmare
What a errible nightmare ride and what courage Aragorn has!Asfaloth is a hero too. I hope both our heros now get some much needed TLC.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! It was a hard ride, but thank goodness for such a powerful, well-trained horse. Asfaloth definitely is a heroic animal, isn't he? I really enjoyed writing about him. Thanks for the review!
Linda Hoyland
· 4 April 2009
· Chapter 17: Balrogs Are Quieter
Poor Halbarad.That was a shock! At least Aragorn is going to Rivendell,but in dire circumstances.Another gripping chapter.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! Definitely a shocking turn... it really threw poor Aragorn for a loop, didn't it. But yes, they're now unequivocally heading to Rivendell! Thanks for the review!
Elflingimp
· 3 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
Looks like Aragorn is at the end of his rope, with the shadow taking his spirit over without him realising it and physically he's not in to great of shape either,hope Elrond will show up in time, I feel so bad for Aragorn. Hugs The Imp P.S. Thanks for the Thursday update, that was so nice!
Author's reply
Thank you! I'm glad you liked this chapter... and you're certainly welcome for the double update this week. Yes, Aragorn has a lot of things going on and the fever and the BB really is hindering his ability to think clearly. I'm glad the story's generating sympathy in you for poor Aragorn! I'm going to *try* to update again on Monday again, if the chapter is ready to go. Thanks again for the review!
Silivren Tinu
· 3 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
I'm beginning to think this was the wrong time for Halbarad to get injured. ;-) He certainly wouldn't have allowed Aragorn to drift off into darkness like that, but, on the other hand, I doubt even Halbarad would have been able to permanently keep Aragorn from despairing as long as something isn't done about the cause of said despair... and I think there's certainly more to it than Aragorn's own doubts. I don't think he'd be likely to consider committing suicide if a certain Nazgul hadn't meddled with his mind somehow. I'm really glad he's at least in just the right place to get healed. :)
That place by the Bruinen with the giant willow tree sounds wonderful! I think I would love to spend time there, too. It was a good idea of Erestor to lead Aragorn there, though I don't think Aragorn really cares at the moment. ;-)
I wish Elrond wouldn't be busy right now, though I really don't want him to stop treating Halbarad. *sigh* Methinks Aragorn could really use some fatherly support at the moment.
*anxiously looking forward to the next chapter*
Almut
Author's reply
Thanks, Almut! You're absolutely right in thinking that Aragorn wouldn't be in such despair without the Black Breath having a hand in it. Normally I don't see Aragorn as ever entertaining such thoughts, but one of the effects of BB is despair... and I think when such deep despair hits, the mind of even the strongest man might flirt with the idea of just walking away from it all in whatever fashion he can. And yes, poor Elrond has no idea just how bad off his "other patient" is, does he? Even an Elf Lord can't be two places at once, unfortunately.
I'm glad you liked the willow... I love willow trees, and I wanted a willow that *wasn't* evil. LOL And then after I'd roughed that part out, I ran across the bit about Nan-tathren in the Silm and it all sort of clicked together.
Thanks for the review, and I may very well star updating twice a week. Readers seem to be wanting the chapters a bit sooner and you know, I kinda want to get the story told, too! :)
Ainu Laire
· 2 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
Well. Methinks that Black Breath is still affecting him. He seriously needs to see to that... he is not well at all.
Author's reply
No, he's not... and Elrond's still busy with Halbarad... Hard times for our Ranger!
Thanks for the review. :)
Inzilbeth
· 2 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
Oh, Cairistiona, you create such a heart breaking scene here. Aragorn is home; the one place he should find peace and hope but both elude him completely. You really have taken him to Hope's Edge.
An excellent chapter in an excellent story.
Author's reply
Thank you, Inzilbeth! I'm glad you liked this one... he's just about on the brink, isn't he, poor Ranger. But in life peace usually has to come from within, as helpful as being in peaceful surroundings are. And Aragorn has a lot to get through before that peace he's so desperate for can finally arrive. Thanks for the review!
Calenlass
· 2 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
:D
Angsty chapter. 'Nuff said. I've had a hankering today for some more, and this was a nice one.
You wrote in Erestor--a very, very pleasant surprise. I loved the part :) And...it also serves as a reminder I have that fic still to be finished. *sheepish grin*
Tsk, Aragorn, you of all people should know better. I thought you were a healer. He never learns, does he?
~Cal,
P.S. Who apologizes if this review is disjointed because...well, she doesn't have a good reason. :/
Author's reply
Glad to have fulfilled your hankering! :) And thank you... even disjointed reviews are always appreciated. I wondered if you'd be surprised at Erestor showing up. I know I was! I enjoyed writing that entire bit--Erestor's fun, isn't he? And yes, Aragorn... well, I wouldn't say *never* learns but he's a stubborn study.
Thanks for the review!
Fantasia
· 2 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
What a nice surprise!...well he really has a big depression, Hurry!!! He needs Dr. Elrond immediately and to complete the picture, an infected wound. Poor, poor Aragorn, having suicidal thoughts is no good, no good at all.
I loved the detail of Rivendell's scents and how he feels at home, I can relate to him with that, do you know that every time that I smell rain, the damp earth smell, I remember my home, it is such a bittersweet moment and memory (I don't live in my home country, and as much as I love my live and my new country for many years now, I still miss my childhood land). Now I'm melancholic, you are a great writer...
More please, please….
Fantasia
Author's reply
Oh dear, I don't aim to depress my readers! Quick, go read Keeping Watch for some humor! *grin* But thank you, I do know what you mean... this chapter did have so much angst and heaviness to it, didn't it. Poor Aragorn! The river tempted him, and though he heard its call, he didn't give in. I think a lesser man probably would have, if he had all the burdens to bear that Aragorn has. And yes, it is always a bittersweet thing to be reminded of a home that's not yours anymore... I think Aragorn probably feels a bit like you do. Rivendell was his childhood home but no longer, and that's always a bit sad. I still live in my home country but not the city where I was born... and it's always a bit hard going back and seeing the changes. My old childhood home is no longer there (washed away in a flood long after we'd moved out), but the trees I climbed as a child are. It gives me an odd feeling, seeing them alone with no house near them.
Well, I do hope I didn't depress you *too* much! Hang in there! I may start updating twice a week instead of once, since we're nearing the end... it will depend on "real life". But updating on Monday and Thursday might not be a bad option if I can get it accomplished. We'll see! And thank you as always for your review.
Elentarri
· 2 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
Beautifully written as usual. I just wish you would update sooner :-)
Author's reply
Thank you, Elentarri! I'm glad you're enjoying this, and yes, it's hard to know how quickly to update. Much depends on real life allowing me to get each chapter ready. But I might start doing 2 updates a week now that we're getting nearer the end. Have to see how it goes. Thanks for hanging in there with this story, and for your review. :)
Marethiel
· 2 April 2009
· Chapter 19: No Answers
Oh, my.
Finally, out of nothing more than a vague sense of duty as a healer, he roused himself to lift his left arm. There was a sharp sting as the muscle flexed. He peeled back his shirt. The bandage was stained with dried blood but there was evidence of fresh bleeding and some yellowish pus. He laid his hand over it and felt heat even through the layers of bandage. He sighed and pulled his shirt back up. So it was infected, probably much worse than before. "You said you would keep an eye on it, Halbarad," he whispered, and his throat ached.
You got me there, babe. I was in tears.
Every one of these chapters has been exciting to read, but I think this one is one of the very very best.
Many thanks for sharing!
~Marethiel
Author's reply
Oh, I made you cry! *hands over tissue* Thank you! I'm so glad this chapter moved you... it was such a wrencher to write, to get at the emotions in a way that would move the reader and give us a peek into the turmoil besetting Aragorn from so many directions, while staying true to Aragorn's very strong character. I can't tell you how many times I rewrote this chapter. So to know that you were moved to tears and found it to be among the best is very, very gratifying. Thanks so much for the review!
Minerva Organa
· 1 April 2009
· Chapter 18: Ride Through a Nightmare
"Home. He was home. Whatever awaited upon his meeting with the father, nothing ever took away the warmth that bloomed in his heart whenever he rounded the last bend and the great house of Elrond spread before him"
I loved this!! It's such a wonderful description of what it feels like to come home after a long time, no matter what else is going on =). And great chapter overall!! Thank the Valar they had Asfaloth...the journey sounded painful and difficult enough as it was. And I loved the exchange between Elrond and Aragorn. It was great to see how strong of a bond they clearly have, despite all of Aragorn's worries. =)
Author's reply
Thank you, Minerva! I'm so glad you liked this, and especially that particular sentence, which was very literally a last minute addition the day before I posted (I don't think I ever quit "fiddling" with my stories... but finally have to just post them anyway! LOL). I think when you have that strong bond of family love, even when things get tense, there's always at least a remnant of that feeling of safety and love when you return home, no matter what else may be clouding the relationship. And indeed, even though Elrond and Aragorn had that betrothal issue between them, Elrond never stopped loving Aragorn. But Aragorn being the type of man he is, no doubt occasionally fell prey to doubt and probably always looked to himself as the source of blame, leaving him with the worry that one of these days, Elrond might just throw his hands up and be done with him. It's an interesting dynamic to explore, those two!
Thanks for the review!
Linda Hoyland
· 31 March 2009
· Chapter 16: Go Forth and Fight
A very exciting chapter.At one point I could have shaken Aragorn,but he had the grace to say sorry.You had me worried about Halbarad.I'm hopingI'll catch up soon,but am still dreadfully behind with everything!
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! No worries about falling behind... I'm just grateful you're putting this story on your to-do list when you're already so busy. I'm glad that you liked this chapter... yes, Aragorn really did need someone like Halbarad to give him a good shake. Unfortunately, our Ranger knows too well how to slip away before anyone can, doesn't he? Read when you can, and thanks for taking time to review!
Silivren Tinu
· 31 March 2009
· Chapter 18: Ride Through a Nightmare
What a terrible ride through the night! I doubt either of them could have made it on any other horse (and it would be really hard for me to return Asfaloth to Glorfindel, too! ;-). I was just as relieved as Aragorn was when they finally reached the first sentry.
I loved your description of the Last Homely House and Aragorn's feelings apon seeing it. It is so like Halbarad to reassure Aragorn even if he himself is probably more than half-dead by now! *huggles wounded ranger* Aragorn's reunion with Elrond was so sweet. :) I wasn't surprised at all about Elrond's warm welcome, but it was still a relief to see that all of Aragorn's fears had been for nothing.
I'm really glad Elrond wasn't deceived by Aragorn's words and will hopefully take a close look at his son once he has saved Halbarad. I wish someone would drag Aragorn in a room with a bed, though - once lying down, he might find it easier to rest than he believes right now. ;-) I guess the only good thing that could be said about his condition is that he's still in a better state than Halbarad... for the moment.
Loved it! :)
Almut
Author's reply
Thank you, Almut! Yes, that is about all you can say about Aragorn's condition... that he's a tad better than Halbarad at the moment.
I do believe there had to have been times in Aragorn's life that he mistook the reasons for Elrond's grumpy moments or any little cross words as being related to the situation with Arwen. Seems like if there's ever some unsaid "issue" lurking between two people, even the most innocent things can get misinterpreted, and this story definitely plays on that. So Aragorn needs not only to be healed of the Black Breath, but also get the air cleared between them. And get that arm wound taken care of. And.... who knows what else may be wrong with that boy! Elrond has his work cut out for him, methinks.
Thanks for the review!
Raksha The Demon
· 31 March 2009
· Chapter 18: Ride Through a Nightmare
Home to Papa, praise the Valar! And no close encounters of the Nazgul kind on the last leg of the trip either.
Good job detailing Aragorn's fear and utter weariness. Now hopefully he and Halbarad can both get some healing and chicken-or-lembas soup...
Author's reply
Thanks, Raksha! Yes, they made it to Imladris unscathed, more or less, if not exhausted and feverish. Glorfindel did a good job scaring off the wraith after all. :) Now to get Halbarad sorted, and Aragorn sorted! And yes, get some chicken soup... or at least some willowbark tea... down Aragorn's stiff-necked throat! Thanks again for the review!
Larner
· 30 March 2009
· Chapter 18: Ride Through a Nightmare
At last--in Rivendell and about to be sat upon, I'm guessing! Elrond and the other children will see to that, I am certain!
Author's reply
LOL... thank you, Larner. Yes, he's finally in Rivendell. Whether he'll stay still long enough to be sat upon is another matter. Elrond's a bit busy with Halbarad, and the twins of course are still chasing the wraith away. But I imagine somehow they'll finally pin him down. Thanks for the review!