*salutes back*  Hi there! *g*   I figured you'd start reading this at some point, now that it's complete.  I'm glad you like the start of it, in Gandalf's POV.  It's not a spoiler really to say that the first 5 chapters are from his POV and the last five and epilogue from Aragorn's.  It was fun to jump into Gandalf's head for a change... he's a fascinating character and I've always loved the friendship he and Aragorn had.

As for how many chapters to get Aragorn upright... telling that at this point WOULD be a spoiler. *g*   Hope you enjoy the ride!

Thank you, Etain!  I'm so glad you're enjoying this, and took the time to leave a review.  Gandalf is none too pleased with his slow wits at the end of the chapter, is he.  But I think, given all he's had to deal with, he has good reason to be a little late in recognizing the boon about to land on his doorstep. :) 

Again, thanks for the review, and I hope you continue enjoying the story.

Thank you, babschwi!  So glad you liked this chapter and the humor in it... that orc repellent is actually Halbarad's horse balm, which showed up in my story "At Hope's Edge"... it's horrible smelling but works very well on sore muscles on men as well as horses.  It's just too bad Gandalf doesn't know that!   Another chapter coming tomorrow!  Thanks again for the review. :)

Thank you, babschwi!  I'm so glad you liked this... and it will continue with the next chapter on Monday, if all goes well.  I'll be posting 2 chapters a week until all 10 and the epilogue are up.  Thanks for the review!