Ellynn
· 10 January 2011
· Chapter 4: A Bit Feeble in the Feathers
What could be causing this fever, Gandalf wondered. The wound seemed better (...)
Knowing you, I bet Aragorn has some other wound/problem/something third, well hidden, that Gandalf failed to notice. You always have to push him to his limits and beyond, don't you? :p
P.s. Aww, Menelris is wonderful. :)
Author's reply
What?? "Knowing me"?? I have *no* idea what you're talking about. I never push Aragorn. *blinks innocently*
Okay, I'm lying through my teeth. LOL But thank you... I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter, and glad I've got you wondering. *g* Thanks for the review!
AzureSkye
· 10 January 2011
· Chapter 4: A Bit Feeble in the Feathers
Menelris is amazing. I was expecting a generic eagle, and then she shows up. She would like the name Thorongil wouldn't she? "forgotten by all save a remnant few of his own people, and a scattering of Elves and apparently at least one Eagle." For some reason, that line made me laugh, even though the rest of that paragraph was rather bitter. Is Aragorn scared of heights? It seems rather odd, but that the only thing I can use to rationalize his fear of riding Menelris. Well, depending on how many more chapters you have planned, either Aragorn is beginning to recover, or some nasty complication is going to develop.....Great chapter, and I can't wait for the next! More Menelris!
Author's reply
Thank you, AzureSkye! I'm glad you liked this, and yes, that line does have a bit of wry humor to it, as I think Gandalf would tend to express himself that way sometimes. :) So chuckle away--it's part of Gandalf's charm.
As for Aragorn's unease... without spoiling future chapters in which events unfold to show exactly why he's uneasy, I'll say that part of his unease stems simply from the fact that, with a few exceptions, the folk of Middle-earth simply did not fly, ever. "Oh, why would you be frightened of flying; people do it all the time" doesn't apply to M-e. So even someone as brave as Aragorn would naturally be nervous, at the least, at the idea of flying. And of course, we all know that bravery does not mean an absence of fear, but the ability to overcome that fear.
And definitely no generic Eagles in this tale! I always wondered about all the other Eagles in Tolkien's stories, and figured they all had unique and interesting personalities, and this story is as much about that as about Aragorn and Gandalf.
Thanks for the review!
shirebound
· 10 January 2011
· Chapter 4: A Bit Feeble in the Feathers
You are as canny as you are beautiful.
I want to remember all these compliments in case I ever need the assistance of an Eagle! :)
Gandalf's last line, and deep respect for Aragorn, are incredibly moving.
Author's reply
Thank you, shirebound! I'm so glad this moved you... and glad I've given you some lines to use, just in case. *g*
Fantasia
· 10 January 2011
· Chapter 4: A Bit Feeble in the Feathers
I wish that they can go to Elrond, but it can't be. Your Eagle Queen knows everything, I like her. I guess that Aragorn was right to think himself crazy, to see an eagle visiting you seems very strange.
Now, the fever, it is just because infection or you are planning something more sinister to poor Aragorn?
Author's reply
Ah, now, you know I can't answer that! *g* You'll just have to keep reading. But thank you, Fantasia... I'm glad you like Menelris! And yes, it would be very odd to be in a cave and then wake up to a giant Eagle brushing your cheek. *g*
Thanks for the review!
Mirach
· 10 January 2011
· Chapter 4: A Bit Feeble in the Feathers
A female eagle is such a great idea! We always see male eagles in the book, so it's easy to forget that female eagles exist in Middle-earth at all =) She is really majestic, and I like the way how Gandalf is speaking to her - he knows the nature of these birds well.
I liked also the idea that she doesn't like the name Strider, and prefers Thorongil, which is very understandable if you think about it.
But poor Aragorn! If even she noticed that he is faring bad, then he really must feel terrible... It's good that Gandalf is with him!
Author's reply
Thank you, Mirach! I'm glad you like Menelris... I didn't realize she'd be a female until she literally flew onto the page. Funny how characters will take on a life of their own. :) She is a very dignified bird, yes, and very kind and noble and all those good things. And I figured to an Eagle, "Strider" would be a terrible name. LOL Glad you enjoyed the chapter... more Eagles to come!
Thanks for the review. :)
LisaG
· 10 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
Ha! I was wondering when Gandalf was going to come out of his musings and think of the eagles for help! ;)
You had me giggling a bit at the thought of a cross-eyed Aragorn when Gandalf was thinking about seeing other after effects from head injuries! But oh boy, is that poor man going to be SORE when he *really* is alert and awake! Ouch!
I look forward to reading the next chapter! :)
Author's reply
Thanks, LisaG! Glad you like it... and yes, Gandalf had everyone hopping up and down pointing out the Eagle to him, didn't he! LOL Aragorn's going to be very uncomfortable for a while, poor Ranger. Fortunately, cross eyes won't be among his problems (hey, one thing had to go right for the poor man...! *g*)
Thanks for the review!
Estelcontar
· 7 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
You know I really like the tittles you gave to your chapters. They are much more inventive and descriptive than the chapters IIIs and IVs I was used to.
I really love the opportunity of seeing Aragorn through Gandalf's eye. Gandalf does really know the hidden core of strength which sustains our future king.
Aragorn was very lucky to have stumbled upon Gandalf, but they both are in a tight corner there, aren't they? I see though that the eagles are about to come to the rescue. Bring them on.
"You are built like that Eagle, Aragorn. Meant to soar, and soar you shall..." Indeed Aragorn shall, and soon too.
Author's reply
Thank you, Estelcontar! I like having intriguing chapter titles, although to be honest, I, II, III etc is soooo much easier. LOL And I'm with you--I've enjoyed seeing Aragorn through Gandalf's eyes. Seeing Aragorn through any other character's eyes is always a pleasure, since it gives us a chance to look at him from a fresh perspective. Always fun, that!
And yes, Aragorn will soar... metaphorically at the very least, but hmm, I have a hunch he might physically, too. *g*
Thanks for the review!
Silivren Tinu
· 7 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
I hope the eagle will turn out to be friendly, bored, and just in the right mood to carry people around. *g* Poor Aragorn could really use some good luck for a change. It's so - well, I'm not entirely sure if "funny" or "interesting" would be the best fitting word here - to see Gandalf in the role of healer/nursemaid. It's quite... entertaining, though he really is surprisingly good at it. I love the way you manage to convey both his dry wit and his gentleness. I hope you won't be able to shake off your Gandalf-plotbunny anytime soon, because I really enjoy what he comes up with! :D
Author's reply
Thank you, Silivren! Yes, let's definitely hope for Eagles in generous moods and Gandalf muses to stick around. I really do like writing Gandalf--he lets me express my inner curmudgeon. *g* Halbarad's the same that way... hmm, now there would be a story--Gandalf and Halbarad together on a misadventure.... hmm, maybe I should pause in updating this one to go chase down that bunny...
No? Okay, I'll finish this one first. ;) Glad you're enjoying it and thanks for the review!
Linda Hoyland
· 7 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
Another great chapter, which I enjoyed very much.Poor Aragorn.I loved the way you compared him to an eagle.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! Aragorn just seems to lend himself to Eagle comparisons, what with all his nobility and grace and strength and... see, there I go again! LOL I'm glad you're enjoying the story. :)
Midnight Promise
· 7 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
Dangit, Gandalf . . .! If I was in Aragorn's position, I would have grabbed that old wizard's whiskers for that befuddling talk! Though, that's the point because that IS how the old coot is. :_3 So, bravo on characterization! :D
HAHA! Ending quote from Gandalf was perfect! Lol, very creative and Gandalf-esque.
YAY! ^0^ Sharp-Eyed-Reader Award! Woot woot! . . .Does that mean that updates will forevermore be posted in five minute intervals?!!! :D No? *sigh* I guess I will just have to content myself with future h/c. :3 Lol.
YES! Future plot bunny is at hand! And I almost spelled it "blot ponny", that's how excited I am! Haha.
Aw. . .Someone give that ranger a hug. Human or eagle is fine, as long as they are not evil. . .*sees movement - does facepalm* . . Sauron, you're out - go back to your tower. -_-;
Can't wait for the next chapter; especially the eagles! :D And I forgot I haven't been explicit in my appreciation for your story, so here we go: I. Love. It. Oh! And, as always, I am blown away by the details that pull everything together, and your portrayal of the characters always makes me smile. :)
Take care!
MP
Author's reply
Alas, MP, no, the Sharp-Eyed Reader award doesn't include 5-minute updates, much as I'm tempted to. *g* But thank you for your very kind words! So glad you're enjoying Aragorn's misadventure and Gandalf's grumpy musings and all of the details--I do love putting in detail whenever I can.
Oh, and thank you for chasing away Sauron. That sort of cold comfort Aragorn really doesn't need right now!! ;)
Thanks for the review!
Lily Baggins
· 7 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
Oh, how I LOVE Gandalf's private musings! His steadfast refusal to allow Aragorn to see his despair, his wistfulness for a younger and stronger body, his worry for Aragorn's health...
Gandalf can be so tough, I think, to characterize and get just the right balance of tender and kind with tough and shrewd. You are doing it superbly---I adore your Gandalf! He's just as I would imagine him to be in such a situation.
And Aragorn finally woke up, a bit dazed and confused, and oh my---he's still got a ways to go to recover. *salivates* And ptosis! How lovely to have given him a little ptosis---I can't help but wonder if Gandalf is right and that "bang on the head" is going to cause Aragorn some suffering. I really enjoyed seeing Aragorn irritable and furious when he woke---and groaning in pain, too.
This was an awesome chapter, as they all have been. I meant to tell you that Gandalf's stitching the wound so as not to leave a scar amused me in chapter two. That's so touching... Aragorn probably has so many scars, but Gandalf is considerate enough to be concerned about him suffering one more.
Is it Monday yet? Gosh, this is going to be a long, slow weekend in waiting for that next chapter!
Author's reply
Thank you, Lily! And I'm giggling because anyone reading my reviews is now lunging for google and typing, "ptosis definition". *g* But yes, he's got a few minor problems from that bang on the head... concussions will do things like that. Thanks for the comments about my Gandalf characterizatin--you're right in that it's difficult to get that balance between cantankerous and caring with him. I think it helps me that I know a few people in RL who are very much that way, but also Tolkien did a superb job of showing those sides of him, so he left a nice map to follow. As for the tiny stitches--I realized that in my story about Aragorn's wedding night, I didn't really give him any scar in that spot! So this one has to heal up cleanly.
So glad you're still enjoying, and it's going to be a slow weekend for me too, because I'm anxious for everyone to see that Eagle! But Monday will be here before you know it.
Thanks again for the review!
Larner
· 6 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
Indeed, when faced with one of Manwe's greatest servants, it's time to approach them when aid is needed! Love the analogy here! Excellent!
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner! Yes, Gandalf definitely needed to get out there and flag down the Eagle. Glad you liked this chapter. :)
shirebound
· 6 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
I was wondering how long it would take Gandalf to 'see' that Eagle! He's so worried and lost in his thoughts. What a dear chapter. I love the way Gandalf sees the differences between himself and Aragorn -- "I was given a shape for blending in, for appearing harmless, for instilling confidence and love, not for leading Men and Elves in majestic power."
Author's reply
Thank you, shirebound! From what I'm seeing in the reviews, I'm imagining the readers all shouting at Gandalf, "The Eagles, the Eagles!! The Eagles are coming!" *g* But yes, the poor wizard has too many worries on his mind to catch on as fast as he would have normally. I'm so glad you liked Gandalf's thoughts comparing himself with Aragorn... Tolkien painted too marvelous portraits in those characters, without a doubt.
Thanks for the review!
Elflingimp
· 6 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
I was wondering why Gandolf did not call the Eagle to him. Foolish wizard getting lost in his own thoughts!The chapter was excellent and I wish it would just go on and on. Will be waiting for the next. Hugs The Imp
Author's reply
Thank you, Imp! Yes, Gandalf's a little slow on the uptake... he has too much on his mind, I think. But fortunately it does seem as though he came to his senses just in time!
Mirach
· 6 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
Beautiful chapter, so very tender and caring... I will use your words and say that I was melting in places. And "if you have any ideas on that subject, feel free to awaken and share them with me" made me almost chuckle. Of course the eagles are a solution, Gandalf! Great saying you have there =) And I liked the "prophetic" part. It's clear that the plan is already somewhere on the edge of Gandalf's mind, but he cannot grasp it yet. I also loved the comparison of Aragorn to the eagle, and I can't wait the see him fly!
Author's reply
Thank you, Mirach! (I do use that "melting" word a lot when I beta your stories, don't I!) I'm so glad you had your own "melty" moments with this. That's the fun of the cccccccccc that follows the "h". And I do like to include a little bit of humor to lighten things up a bit. As for Aragorn flying... wait and see!
Thanks for the review!
Fantasia
· 6 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
Well, the eagles to the rescue!
I miss the merry band of Aragon's Rangers. I re-read some of your old stories and now I'm missing them, especially Halbarad and Denlad, any chances to see them in this story or in a new one?
Hope that poor Aragorn gets better soon, I watched one of those shows of survival in TV, about a girl that was impaled by a tree branch in the mountains, it really looked painful and so strange, she needed surgery and the risk of infection was great, I can only think in poor Aragorn in the wilds so sick.
Waiting for more and thank you.
Author's reply
Thank you, Fantasia... and yes, I do have Ranger stories still to come that include the "regulars" like Denlad and Halbarad. Hopefully this year will be kinder to me than last year and I can actually get them written! But in the meantime, I'm glad you're enjoying this story (and Aragorn *is* a Ranger, after all, so technically I'm not completely abandoning my Ranger tales *g*).
And yes, getting impaled like that is very dangerous--I might be stretching the medical details of this version of a similar accident a bit in the name of dramatic license, but the risk of infection is great. In real life, I don't know that Gandalf's measures would be enough!
Ellynn
· 6 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
Oh, I just *love* the hints of humor in this chapter. :)
Author's reply
Thank you, Ellynn! I does like injecting a bit of humor, I does. ;)
Radbooks
· 6 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
I'm really enjoying this story! I love Gandalf's 'prattle' as he worries for Aragorn. :) Thanks so much for sharing with us... I wish I could find my muse again. sigh
Author's reply
Thank you, Radbooks... so glad you're enjoying this little tale. I hope you do find your muse--I always enjoy your writing.
*shakes bushes, hoping to scare your muse from hiding*
AzureSkye
· 6 January 2011
· Chapter 3: Wishing For a Penny Beyond Reach
Aaaand here come the eagles! LOL. I have been waiting for that. Well, Gandalf is right, and wrong. It will be the small that win through, but not because they're all thats left. So, head injured Aragorn. That may not turn out well....but when he was glaring at Gandalf I was laughing hysterically. I was again at "wishing for a penny beyond reach when a dragon hoard of mithril is at hand!" That was brilliant, and so Gandalf. Well, anyway, I can't wait to meet the eagles! Great chapter!
Author's reply
Thank you, AzureSkye! Yes, finally... the Eagles are in sight (or at least one is). Took me long enough, didn't it. LOL And yes, poor Aragorn is a bit concussed and out of sorts and exhausted... who can blame him for going back to sleep!
Glad you liked the bits of humor, and thanks for the review!
layne67
· 6 January 2011
· Chapter 2: Better at Blazes Than Bandages
Oh poor, poor Aragorn. And it's so very endearing to see Gandalf fussing and worrying over him, that wizard really loves his ranger, doesn't he? ::happy sigh::
Author's reply
Thank you, Layne! Yes, I do believe there's great love between Gandalf and Aragorn--sort of a father/son relationship, in some ways, and a friendship-between equals relationship in others. It's great fun to explore, although I think Gandalf probably isn't to happy with how I've treated his poor Ranger!
Thanks for the review!
Larner
· 5 January 2011
· Chapter 2: Better at Blazes Than Bandages
It appears he has done all he can for the moment, at least. Now--to let rest and Aragorn's own native strength take care of the rest....
Author's reply
Thank you, Larner! That's the fun part of writing Aragorn when he's injured--knowing he does have this incredible innate Numenorean strength to help him through what might be fatal to normal men. But how to get him off that mountain! Thanks for reading, and for the review!
SurgicalSteel
· 5 January 2011
· Chapter 2: Better at Blazes Than Bandages
The medical bits are much better done than they are in some of your other fic - color me pleasantly surprised and impressed!
Author's reply
Thank you, SurgicalSteel... I'm glad this one at least seems to have passed muster. ;)
Fantasia
· 5 January 2011
· Chapter 2: Better at Blazes Than Bandages
Cairistiona
Happy to see a new story from you. As always, poor Aragorn, and poor Gandalf! waiting for more. I really like your stories. Thank you
Author's reply
Thank you, Fantasia--so glad you're enjoying this new story! Thanks for letting me know. :)
lovethosehobbits
· 4 January 2011
· Chapter 2: Better at Blazes Than Bandages
Oh, Lily must be in hog heaven. This is wonderful and I can't wait for more...
Author's reply
Thank you, lovethosehobbits! I do think Lily is enjoying this, yes. *g* I'm glad you are, as well--thanks for the review!
Linda Hoyland
· 4 January 2011
· Chapter 2: Better at Blazes Than Bandages
Poor Aragorn, he is in a sad way!You are making me want to go and write some h/c now! I just love your Gandalf and your chapter title!I eagerly await more.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda! Glad you're enjoying this... and yes, by all means, go write some h/c! There can't be too much of it, after all. :) And I'm tickled that everyone seems to like that chapter title--I think I've gotten more comments on it than I ever have for a chapter title before.
Thanks for the review!