Mire
By: Cheryl W
Disclaimer: I don't own The Lord of the Rings or anything in conjunction with the Lord of the Rings nor am I making a profit from this story. No copyright infringement is intended.
Replies to Reviews are at the bottom of this chapter.
Now on with the angst!
*********************************
Chapter 7
Dawn was lighting up the valley of Rivendell but it brought little hope to Aragorn's loved ones. For the millionth time, Elrond put his hand upon his son's forehead, praying that this time he would notice a decrease in the fever. He clamped his eyes shut as fear gripped his soul. The fever was increasing.
All eyes settled on Elrond, knowing by his reaction that this new day only beckoned in more ill news. Swallowing hard, Legolas tried to keep a reign on his emotions. How could he bare to lose his best friend?!
When Elrond opened his eyes, he sighted on Gandalf. "I need to break this fever now if he is to have a chance to survive." There was no question in his words and yet Gandalf felt the weight of Elrond's gaze. The father needed some assurances that his next actions were sound and justified. Gandalf nodded his head. Yes, the fever would take Aragorn's life soon if it continued it's grasp upon the human's mortal body.
"How?" Elrohir quietly asked as he lifted his eyes from Aragorn's face and searched his father's eyes.
Elrond's words were firm, calm and Gandalf alone recognized the uncertainty in the elf's soul, "We must submerge Estel in cold water." And Elrond's eyes again sighted on the wizard's, wanting his consensus on this method.
By simply raising an eyebrow, Gandalf poised a question he would not give utterance to here among the young elves. But Elrond knew the question only too well and he nodded his head solemnly as he silently replied, 'Yes, my old friend, I know the risk I take with this action.' For both elf lord and wizard knew trying to break Aragorn's fever in this fashion had but two outcomes: Either Aragorn's fever would break or Aragorn's heart would cease to beat and he would die. Slowly, Gandalf nodded his head in agreement with Elrond's decision. There were no other options left for them to take.
Elrond felt some of the burden lift from his soul as Gandalf gave his nod, agreeing with Elrond's choice. With utter gentleness, Elrond picked Aragorn up in his arms and headed for the bathing chambers, unaware of the three elves and the wizard that followed in his wake. Looking down at the colorless face of his son as it rested limply against his chest, Elrond's heart clenched. How could one so vibrant with life be summoned so unexpectedly to depart this mortal existence? For all his long life, Elrond could never fathom the cruelty of mortality...of death.
Entering the bathing chambers, Elrond placed Aragorn in a tub. Turning to find the room now occupied by his two sons, the prince and the wizard, Elrond instructed, "Draw the coldest water from the springs. We must bring his temperature down as quickly as possible." Without further prompting, Elrohir, Elladan and Legolas set off to fetch the water.
Kneeling beside the tub, Elrond began to remove Aragorn's shirt and was startled when Gandalf knelt on the other side of the tub and gently pulled Aragorn forward, holding him gently but firmly in his grasp. A look of gratitude entered Elrond's eyes as he more easily finished his task. Once the shirt was removed, Gandalf eased Aragorn back against the tub, settling his head gently against the metal.
Elrond's eyes met Gandalf's across Aragorn's ill body, "I know not whether I am condemning him or saving him with this choice of action," Elrond quietly revealed, "but I know of no other options."
"The time for options has long passed...it passed as soon as Aragorn entered the mire. All our actions to save him are out of desperation." A small smile turned up Gandalf's lips, "But that does not mean our actions will not be effective."
Elrond could not do more than nod his head. He could not talk of hope now. Right now, entrapping hope is his heart was a hard enough task.
Elrohir, Elladan, and Legolas reentered the room, each bearing a pail of water. Putting his hand in Elrohir's pail to test the temperature of the water, Elrond was pleased to find the water almost frigid. "Pour the water over Estel, starting with his head," Elrond instructed and Elrohir came to stand over the tub that bore his little brother.
Hesitation sprang into Elrohir. It seemed cruel and harsh to douse Estel is such freezing water when he was so weak, and ill and fragile. No, it seemed more reminiscent of the pranks they loved to play on one another. His eyes drifted down to meet Elrond's.
Sensing his son's thoughts, Elrond stood and put a hand on Elrohir's shoulder. "I know this treatment seems unkind, but in truth, it is the only choice we have left to break this fever. If we do nothing and this fever continues even for a short while longer....Estel will die."
Fear and resolve warred within Elrohir but he nodded his head, "I understand, ada." And he poured the water over Aragorn's head, drenching the unconscious man in the icy water. Aragorn flinched under the cascade of biting cold water but did not awaken. Without regret, Elladan emptied his own pail over Aragorn's head, earning another flinch from Aragorn.
Legolas came to stand by the tub and his eyes met Elrond's. "Pour your water over his chest, Legolas," Elrond instructed. Legolas obeyed and he flinched as Aragorn began to shiver. Elrond raised his hand to settle it on the prince's shoulder for reassurances but before he could make contact, the prince quickly left the room to refill his pail.
When the tub was half way filled, Aragorn's body shook continuously from the cold of the water. Elrond touched his son's forehead but to his disappointment, Aragorn's skin still gave off the burning heat of a fever. Nodding to Elladan, Elrond watched as Elladan poured yet another pail of cold water over Aragorn. Legolas continued to sponge Aragorn's face and chest with the cold liquid as he had begun at Elrond's prompting.
Elrond swiftly came to his feet, drawing the worried eyes of the three young elves and the wizard. A look of anguished frustration creased the elven lord's features. "The fever still rages...even after so long a time immersed in this cold water!" his worry and desperation rang through his words. Pacing across the room, Elrond scoured his extensive healing knowledge for a remedy for his son's condition. Suddenly he stopped and his eyes shot to Legolas. "Your theory... about Estel's human blood...maybe if I could weaken the strength of the elven blood that flows through Estel..."
It was Gandalf who finished Elrond's musings, "then maybe Aragorn's human blood could gather the strength to win this struggle against the curse."
Elrond nodded his head, "What think you, Gandalf?"
The wizard's eyes fell to the fever wracked body of Aragorn. When he raised his eyes to Elrond, sadness permeated their depths. "He will not live long now. We have nothing to lose in pursuing this theory."
The words hung heavily in all their hearts but none could refute the truth of them. Elrond nodded solemnly, "Keep dousing him with the water. I will mix the drug." Then with one final heartbreaking look to Aragorn, he left the room.
Gandalf sat in a chair and studied the scene before him. Legolas and Elrohir sat on the floor around the tub that held Aragorn. Elladan was pouring yet another pail of water on his little brother. Elrohir watched with stunned despair and Legolas continued to sponge Aragorn's face and chest with tenderness.
Surprising all of them, Elrohir sprang to his feet. "Sweet Eru! Tell me this is not happening! All we wished for was to go hunting...to catch that stag that has been so boldly eluding us all season!" Bitterness coated his words but the next words were chocked with despair, "But truly all I wanted was to spend time with Estel," tears rang through his words, "I have missed him so deeply these past years." Tears slipped down his checks.
Elladan hung his head, trying hard to not break down into sobs. Legolas turned back to his best friend and put a gentle hand upon Aragorn's cheek, "Please do not leave us, Aragorn. We, none of us, can bear the thought of losing you." A tear escaped from Legolas' eye. "You have never understood how deeply our love for you goes into our very souls." Tenderly he brushed the wet dark locks from Aragorn's brow. "An elf does not lightly offer love, nor easily open his heart but once that love is bestowed, it does not tarnish or fade. Ever. I risk much in claiming you as my best friend, my brother, I expect you to honor that by defying this curse's manipulations. Exert your famous human stubbornness and cling to this life."
Elladan dropped to his knees beside the tub and pleaded, "Please, Estel, fight the darkness that has begun to seep over your soul! Do not accept defeat!"
Crossing again to the tub, Elrohir bent down and grasped Aragorn's hand. "You have the strength to beat this, brother. I know you do."
For all their entreaties, there was no change or reaction in the ill human. Gandalf hung his head sadly, his own hope that the words of Aragorn's best friend and brothers would cause some improvements in the man dashed. He looked up as Elrond reentered the room, carrying a cup. At Elrond's questioning look, Gandalf shook his head, indicating that there had been no improvements in Aragorn's condition.
With an inaudible sigh, Elrond gripped the cup tighter. Truly this potion was their only chance to save Estel.
TBC
************************************
I NEED HELP!! (And don't panic, I already told you Aragorn will live). I know Elves who die go to the Halls of Mandos...where do humans go when they die and leave Middle Earth?
O.K. now on to the replies to my FANTASTIC reviewers!!!! You guys are THE BEST!!
Star Stallion: I'm glad you are relieved Aragorn will live (though the evil part of me wanted to withhold that information ...but the good part of me won out!) Glad you liked chapter 6 and I'ld love to hear what you think of this chapter! Thanks so much for your loyalty to my story!
Tailspin: I love story lines where an old or not so old war injury causes a character problems and of course gets them some much deserved concern! So of course I had to throw some of that stuff in wherever I can! (I'm blushing over your compliment about that scar scene...ahh shucks!) And yes, I too am a HUGE fan of Aragorn angst/comfort and that only works well if someone who cares deeply for him is in the story to worry and take care of him...like our favorite elf prince! Thanks for your review and let me know what you think of this chapter!
Marbienl: Ah...I see that you are not disappointed that I kinda spoiled the ending. Well, I just couldn't stand it that you thought I was going to kill Aragorn...it my younger days I would have killed him off but now that I'm older, wiser, realize reality is something to be avoided at all costs whenever possible, now like I said, I'm all about happy endings. And as you can tell I'm working through my anger at Elrond...I know he's not a bad elf and all it's just I'm very protective of Aragorn! As for how the mire became cursed, oh I had some crazy thoughts on that one but it required that I actually know something about previous elves that lived there and their legends and well, my theory was even boring me! And yes, it is quite frustrating that the elves in Aragorn's life can not come to terms with his strength. Finally Legolas was forced to point out Aragorn's scar...I couldn't let a juicy secret like that remain hidden for long! As for the history between Aragorn and Legolas, well I'm actually building on the stories by Cassia and Sio in their wonder Mellon Chronicles series. If you read "First Meetings" under "Cassia" you'll understand the basis I used for my references in this story. And actually, I liked their version so well, I never concocted my own version of Aragorn and Legolas' first meeting. Well thanks again for your awesome review, which included quotes you liked, your thoughts and compliments. All this shapes me "hopefully" into a better writer!
Bill the Pony2: Ok, maybe I've been tricked into reading some death stories but, no matter how beautifully written they are, I'm still in the dumps! (Death can do that to a person). But I'm relieved that you didn't abandon this story after you learned it was just going to be good old angst. I really love to hear your comments after each chapter!
Grumpy: I'm blushing again! I'm so honored that you consider this one of your favorites! And when I first watched LOTR:FOTR, I knew nothing about the storyline and was so shocked when Boromir died..( by that time in the story I was seriously in love with Sean Bean) but I reconciled myself with the knowledge that he died a good death, an honor death. (BTW, if you like Sean Bean you should see him in the Sharpe movies, he's awesome!). And yes, Legolas and Elrond have worked out their issues and come to realize they both want the same thing...to protect Aragorn. I'm relieved you liked the background I did on Aragorn becoming Elrond's son...I thought I might have gone too AU there. I hope you'll tell me what you think of this latest chapter!
Alex mistress squirrel: Author's notes do tend to drag on and I've skipped many of them. ( I guess that's why I hedged my bets and restated the "Aragorn lives" clause in my reply to you.) Thanks for "loving" chapter 6 and I hope I didn't make you wait too long for this chapter. Drop me your comments!
Silvertoekee: You really had me worried there! I thought I totally spoiled this story for you! And yes, I was really tempted to NOT tell you the outcome but ...well, it is nearing Christmas and I was worried that an evil trick like that would work against my gift getting prospects. Thank you for thinking my story is original! I'm always afraid that I'm unknowingly writing the same thing that has been done before! And I love when everyone tries to protect Aragorn, especially when he resents it! I'm happy that you like my story and I appreciate your review. I hope to hear what you think of this chapter!
Roccovende: I really appreciate your flattering review! I absolutely love delving into the emotions of others...it's like getting a glimpse into their souls. As for the blood poisoning/tainting..."when in doubt, make it up" is my motto. The only medical knowledge I have is tv shows and movies! But heck, I figure if they can write hokey medical procedures then so can I. And on occasion, I've been tricked into reading a death fic and yes, my computer has been in jeopardy just like yours. As for a sequel...I'm tickled pink that you'd want one! When this story is wrapped up and you've read the ending, drop me a line and give me suggestions for a sequel. Maybe between the two of us we can get the makings of a continuing story. Thanks for your review and I hope to hear your opinions on this chapter.
Lady Jaina: I am so glad to come across another ravenous angst reader! I hope this chapter gave you a good helping of angst...but next chapter...well, come hungry for angst. And I just had to put Elrond through the angst wringer...that is every parent's burden once and awhile. Love to hear what you think of this chapter!
Luinthien: I'm glad you liked chapter 6 as well as the part where Legolas sees Aragorn's wounds. (I love when concealed wounds are revealed!) And we can only hope that Legolas (and Aragorn) realizes Aragorn has strength enough to see him through the dangerous paths he has to transverse in his life! As for the Elrond and Legolas conflict, I think there is too much respect and even love between them to let that argument destroy their friendship. Hope you liked this chapter and I'ld love to hear your comments!
Lady of the Lake2: I appreciate your compliments and welcome your future comments. And I never thought about the "fly on a wall" aspect of this story. I like that thought..a lot. (I just got your official review! So here's my reply to that). I made you whimper?! (Oh I just LOVE that!) And, though Aragorn is being sorely treated at my hands at the moment, I will be sure to dust him off, clean him up and ship him over to your wonderful tale so that you can have him fall from that cliff on the way to Helm's deep and then be rescued by Legolas and Gimli. Loved to hear your thoughts on this chapter!
Tychen: Ah, so your boys have again returned to school....but then you got sick! No fair!!! However, I'm glad my little post helped to cheer you up. AND it was your sob story that finally pushed me into posting this story today (Tuesday) instead of Wednesday. I mean if I can do good in the world WHILE I'm torturing Aragorn, I had to go for it! Hope you feel better and I'ld love to hear your comments on this chapter!
Daniela: I truly believe that Aragorn is someone who is so giving of himself, that it is nearly impossible to not like and respect him. And the books seemed to suggest Gandalf and Aragorn traveled together and were friends so of course I had to throw that into my little tale! And I guess I was tired of thinking of how "inferior" Aragorn always "seems" compared to the elves that I thought well, maybe there is strength in him that surpasses the elves....maybe...just maybe. I'm glad you are being so understanding about my whole inaccuracy about the blood poisoning and can accept the lame "it's cursed" theory I'm running with! It's really hard being really vague about things you are clueless about! And now you've read chapter 7...so what do you think!!!
By: Cheryl W
Disclaimer: I don't own The Lord of the Rings or anything in conjunction with the Lord of the Rings nor am I making a profit from this story. No copyright infringement is intended.
Replies to Reviews are at the bottom of this chapter.
Now on with the angst!
*********************************
Chapter 7
Dawn was lighting up the valley of Rivendell but it brought little hope to Aragorn's loved ones. For the millionth time, Elrond put his hand upon his son's forehead, praying that this time he would notice a decrease in the fever. He clamped his eyes shut as fear gripped his soul. The fever was increasing.
All eyes settled on Elrond, knowing by his reaction that this new day only beckoned in more ill news. Swallowing hard, Legolas tried to keep a reign on his emotions. How could he bare to lose his best friend?!
When Elrond opened his eyes, he sighted on Gandalf. "I need to break this fever now if he is to have a chance to survive." There was no question in his words and yet Gandalf felt the weight of Elrond's gaze. The father needed some assurances that his next actions were sound and justified. Gandalf nodded his head. Yes, the fever would take Aragorn's life soon if it continued it's grasp upon the human's mortal body.
"How?" Elrohir quietly asked as he lifted his eyes from Aragorn's face and searched his father's eyes.
Elrond's words were firm, calm and Gandalf alone recognized the uncertainty in the elf's soul, "We must submerge Estel in cold water." And Elrond's eyes again sighted on the wizard's, wanting his consensus on this method.
By simply raising an eyebrow, Gandalf poised a question he would not give utterance to here among the young elves. But Elrond knew the question only too well and he nodded his head solemnly as he silently replied, 'Yes, my old friend, I know the risk I take with this action.' For both elf lord and wizard knew trying to break Aragorn's fever in this fashion had but two outcomes: Either Aragorn's fever would break or Aragorn's heart would cease to beat and he would die. Slowly, Gandalf nodded his head in agreement with Elrond's decision. There were no other options left for them to take.
Elrond felt some of the burden lift from his soul as Gandalf gave his nod, agreeing with Elrond's choice. With utter gentleness, Elrond picked Aragorn up in his arms and headed for the bathing chambers, unaware of the three elves and the wizard that followed in his wake. Looking down at the colorless face of his son as it rested limply against his chest, Elrond's heart clenched. How could one so vibrant with life be summoned so unexpectedly to depart this mortal existence? For all his long life, Elrond could never fathom the cruelty of mortality...of death.
Entering the bathing chambers, Elrond placed Aragorn in a tub. Turning to find the room now occupied by his two sons, the prince and the wizard, Elrond instructed, "Draw the coldest water from the springs. We must bring his temperature down as quickly as possible." Without further prompting, Elrohir, Elladan and Legolas set off to fetch the water.
Kneeling beside the tub, Elrond began to remove Aragorn's shirt and was startled when Gandalf knelt on the other side of the tub and gently pulled Aragorn forward, holding him gently but firmly in his grasp. A look of gratitude entered Elrond's eyes as he more easily finished his task. Once the shirt was removed, Gandalf eased Aragorn back against the tub, settling his head gently against the metal.
Elrond's eyes met Gandalf's across Aragorn's ill body, "I know not whether I am condemning him or saving him with this choice of action," Elrond quietly revealed, "but I know of no other options."
"The time for options has long passed...it passed as soon as Aragorn entered the mire. All our actions to save him are out of desperation." A small smile turned up Gandalf's lips, "But that does not mean our actions will not be effective."
Elrond could not do more than nod his head. He could not talk of hope now. Right now, entrapping hope is his heart was a hard enough task.
Elrohir, Elladan, and Legolas reentered the room, each bearing a pail of water. Putting his hand in Elrohir's pail to test the temperature of the water, Elrond was pleased to find the water almost frigid. "Pour the water over Estel, starting with his head," Elrond instructed and Elrohir came to stand over the tub that bore his little brother.
Hesitation sprang into Elrohir. It seemed cruel and harsh to douse Estel is such freezing water when he was so weak, and ill and fragile. No, it seemed more reminiscent of the pranks they loved to play on one another. His eyes drifted down to meet Elrond's.
Sensing his son's thoughts, Elrond stood and put a hand on Elrohir's shoulder. "I know this treatment seems unkind, but in truth, it is the only choice we have left to break this fever. If we do nothing and this fever continues even for a short while longer....Estel will die."
Fear and resolve warred within Elrohir but he nodded his head, "I understand, ada." And he poured the water over Aragorn's head, drenching the unconscious man in the icy water. Aragorn flinched under the cascade of biting cold water but did not awaken. Without regret, Elladan emptied his own pail over Aragorn's head, earning another flinch from Aragorn.
Legolas came to stand by the tub and his eyes met Elrond's. "Pour your water over his chest, Legolas," Elrond instructed. Legolas obeyed and he flinched as Aragorn began to shiver. Elrond raised his hand to settle it on the prince's shoulder for reassurances but before he could make contact, the prince quickly left the room to refill his pail.
When the tub was half way filled, Aragorn's body shook continuously from the cold of the water. Elrond touched his son's forehead but to his disappointment, Aragorn's skin still gave off the burning heat of a fever. Nodding to Elladan, Elrond watched as Elladan poured yet another pail of cold water over Aragorn. Legolas continued to sponge Aragorn's face and chest with the cold liquid as he had begun at Elrond's prompting.
Elrond swiftly came to his feet, drawing the worried eyes of the three young elves and the wizard. A look of anguished frustration creased the elven lord's features. "The fever still rages...even after so long a time immersed in this cold water!" his worry and desperation rang through his words. Pacing across the room, Elrond scoured his extensive healing knowledge for a remedy for his son's condition. Suddenly he stopped and his eyes shot to Legolas. "Your theory... about Estel's human blood...maybe if I could weaken the strength of the elven blood that flows through Estel..."
It was Gandalf who finished Elrond's musings, "then maybe Aragorn's human blood could gather the strength to win this struggle against the curse."
Elrond nodded his head, "What think you, Gandalf?"
The wizard's eyes fell to the fever wracked body of Aragorn. When he raised his eyes to Elrond, sadness permeated their depths. "He will not live long now. We have nothing to lose in pursuing this theory."
The words hung heavily in all their hearts but none could refute the truth of them. Elrond nodded solemnly, "Keep dousing him with the water. I will mix the drug." Then with one final heartbreaking look to Aragorn, he left the room.
Gandalf sat in a chair and studied the scene before him. Legolas and Elrohir sat on the floor around the tub that held Aragorn. Elladan was pouring yet another pail of water on his little brother. Elrohir watched with stunned despair and Legolas continued to sponge Aragorn's face and chest with tenderness.
Surprising all of them, Elrohir sprang to his feet. "Sweet Eru! Tell me this is not happening! All we wished for was to go hunting...to catch that stag that has been so boldly eluding us all season!" Bitterness coated his words but the next words were chocked with despair, "But truly all I wanted was to spend time with Estel," tears rang through his words, "I have missed him so deeply these past years." Tears slipped down his checks.
Elladan hung his head, trying hard to not break down into sobs. Legolas turned back to his best friend and put a gentle hand upon Aragorn's cheek, "Please do not leave us, Aragorn. We, none of us, can bear the thought of losing you." A tear escaped from Legolas' eye. "You have never understood how deeply our love for you goes into our very souls." Tenderly he brushed the wet dark locks from Aragorn's brow. "An elf does not lightly offer love, nor easily open his heart but once that love is bestowed, it does not tarnish or fade. Ever. I risk much in claiming you as my best friend, my brother, I expect you to honor that by defying this curse's manipulations. Exert your famous human stubbornness and cling to this life."
Elladan dropped to his knees beside the tub and pleaded, "Please, Estel, fight the darkness that has begun to seep over your soul! Do not accept defeat!"
Crossing again to the tub, Elrohir bent down and grasped Aragorn's hand. "You have the strength to beat this, brother. I know you do."
For all their entreaties, there was no change or reaction in the ill human. Gandalf hung his head sadly, his own hope that the words of Aragorn's best friend and brothers would cause some improvements in the man dashed. He looked up as Elrond reentered the room, carrying a cup. At Elrond's questioning look, Gandalf shook his head, indicating that there had been no improvements in Aragorn's condition.
With an inaudible sigh, Elrond gripped the cup tighter. Truly this potion was their only chance to save Estel.
TBC
************************************
I NEED HELP!! (And don't panic, I already told you Aragorn will live). I know Elves who die go to the Halls of Mandos...where do humans go when they die and leave Middle Earth?
O.K. now on to the replies to my FANTASTIC reviewers!!!! You guys are THE BEST!!
Star Stallion: I'm glad you are relieved Aragorn will live (though the evil part of me wanted to withhold that information ...but the good part of me won out!) Glad you liked chapter 6 and I'ld love to hear what you think of this chapter! Thanks so much for your loyalty to my story!
Tailspin: I love story lines where an old or not so old war injury causes a character problems and of course gets them some much deserved concern! So of course I had to throw some of that stuff in wherever I can! (I'm blushing over your compliment about that scar scene...ahh shucks!) And yes, I too am a HUGE fan of Aragorn angst/comfort and that only works well if someone who cares deeply for him is in the story to worry and take care of him...like our favorite elf prince! Thanks for your review and let me know what you think of this chapter!
Marbienl: Ah...I see that you are not disappointed that I kinda spoiled the ending. Well, I just couldn't stand it that you thought I was going to kill Aragorn...it my younger days I would have killed him off but now that I'm older, wiser, realize reality is something to be avoided at all costs whenever possible, now like I said, I'm all about happy endings. And as you can tell I'm working through my anger at Elrond...I know he's not a bad elf and all it's just I'm very protective of Aragorn! As for how the mire became cursed, oh I had some crazy thoughts on that one but it required that I actually know something about previous elves that lived there and their legends and well, my theory was even boring me! And yes, it is quite frustrating that the elves in Aragorn's life can not come to terms with his strength. Finally Legolas was forced to point out Aragorn's scar...I couldn't let a juicy secret like that remain hidden for long! As for the history between Aragorn and Legolas, well I'm actually building on the stories by Cassia and Sio in their wonder Mellon Chronicles series. If you read "First Meetings" under "Cassia" you'll understand the basis I used for my references in this story. And actually, I liked their version so well, I never concocted my own version of Aragorn and Legolas' first meeting. Well thanks again for your awesome review, which included quotes you liked, your thoughts and compliments. All this shapes me "hopefully" into a better writer!
Bill the Pony2: Ok, maybe I've been tricked into reading some death stories but, no matter how beautifully written they are, I'm still in the dumps! (Death can do that to a person). But I'm relieved that you didn't abandon this story after you learned it was just going to be good old angst. I really love to hear your comments after each chapter!
Grumpy: I'm blushing again! I'm so honored that you consider this one of your favorites! And when I first watched LOTR:FOTR, I knew nothing about the storyline and was so shocked when Boromir died..( by that time in the story I was seriously in love with Sean Bean) but I reconciled myself with the knowledge that he died a good death, an honor death. (BTW, if you like Sean Bean you should see him in the Sharpe movies, he's awesome!). And yes, Legolas and Elrond have worked out their issues and come to realize they both want the same thing...to protect Aragorn. I'm relieved you liked the background I did on Aragorn becoming Elrond's son...I thought I might have gone too AU there. I hope you'll tell me what you think of this latest chapter!
Alex mistress squirrel: Author's notes do tend to drag on and I've skipped many of them. ( I guess that's why I hedged my bets and restated the "Aragorn lives" clause in my reply to you.) Thanks for "loving" chapter 6 and I hope I didn't make you wait too long for this chapter. Drop me your comments!
Silvertoekee: You really had me worried there! I thought I totally spoiled this story for you! And yes, I was really tempted to NOT tell you the outcome but ...well, it is nearing Christmas and I was worried that an evil trick like that would work against my gift getting prospects. Thank you for thinking my story is original! I'm always afraid that I'm unknowingly writing the same thing that has been done before! And I love when everyone tries to protect Aragorn, especially when he resents it! I'm happy that you like my story and I appreciate your review. I hope to hear what you think of this chapter!
Roccovende: I really appreciate your flattering review! I absolutely love delving into the emotions of others...it's like getting a glimpse into their souls. As for the blood poisoning/tainting..."when in doubt, make it up" is my motto. The only medical knowledge I have is tv shows and movies! But heck, I figure if they can write hokey medical procedures then so can I. And on occasion, I've been tricked into reading a death fic and yes, my computer has been in jeopardy just like yours. As for a sequel...I'm tickled pink that you'd want one! When this story is wrapped up and you've read the ending, drop me a line and give me suggestions for a sequel. Maybe between the two of us we can get the makings of a continuing story. Thanks for your review and I hope to hear your opinions on this chapter.
Lady Jaina: I am so glad to come across another ravenous angst reader! I hope this chapter gave you a good helping of angst...but next chapter...well, come hungry for angst. And I just had to put Elrond through the angst wringer...that is every parent's burden once and awhile. Love to hear what you think of this chapter!
Luinthien: I'm glad you liked chapter 6 as well as the part where Legolas sees Aragorn's wounds. (I love when concealed wounds are revealed!) And we can only hope that Legolas (and Aragorn) realizes Aragorn has strength enough to see him through the dangerous paths he has to transverse in his life! As for the Elrond and Legolas conflict, I think there is too much respect and even love between them to let that argument destroy their friendship. Hope you liked this chapter and I'ld love to hear your comments!
Lady of the Lake2: I appreciate your compliments and welcome your future comments. And I never thought about the "fly on a wall" aspect of this story. I like that thought..a lot. (I just got your official review! So here's my reply to that). I made you whimper?! (Oh I just LOVE that!) And, though Aragorn is being sorely treated at my hands at the moment, I will be sure to dust him off, clean him up and ship him over to your wonderful tale so that you can have him fall from that cliff on the way to Helm's deep and then be rescued by Legolas and Gimli. Loved to hear your thoughts on this chapter!
Tychen: Ah, so your boys have again returned to school....but then you got sick! No fair!!! However, I'm glad my little post helped to cheer you up. AND it was your sob story that finally pushed me into posting this story today (Tuesday) instead of Wednesday. I mean if I can do good in the world WHILE I'm torturing Aragorn, I had to go for it! Hope you feel better and I'ld love to hear your comments on this chapter!
Daniela: I truly believe that Aragorn is someone who is so giving of himself, that it is nearly impossible to not like and respect him. And the books seemed to suggest Gandalf and Aragorn traveled together and were friends so of course I had to throw that into my little tale! And I guess I was tired of thinking of how "inferior" Aragorn always "seems" compared to the elves that I thought well, maybe there is strength in him that surpasses the elves....maybe...just maybe. I'm glad you are being so understanding about my whole inaccuracy about the blood poisoning and can accept the lame "it's cursed" theory I'm running with! It's really hard being really vague about things you are clueless about! And now you've read chapter 7...so what do you think!!!