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A Cat in King Elessar's Court  by Agape4Gondor 8 Review(s)
StefaniaReviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/22/2008
Faramir jumped when he heard Alqua speak in his mind!

I almost jumped, as well. I did not expect the cat to speak into the mind of Denethor's son, although I certainly think Faramir capable of establishing such a "psychic connection" with this gifted animal. I expected Alqualonde to remain steadfastly loyal to Denethor. However, I do understand that the cat might want to offer a feline farewell, given the dire circumstances.

- Steff

Author Reply: There is loyalty, dear Stefania, and then there is loyalty. The Cat knew Denethor understood. The Cat felt that Denethor could not follow the boy and offer comfort... not in these circumstances. So he 'stood in' for the father. At least, because the Cat is slightly blind when it comes to Denethor - that is his hope.

The cat hopes you had a soft landing if you truly jumped... He offers pillows for the sore part????

Linda HoylandReviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/12/2008
A very moving chapter.

Author Reply: Thank you. The cat could not let Faramir leave without some word of hope!

shireboundReviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/11/2008
Oh dear, I suspect this is going to get far sadder yet. What a difficult time for everyone.

Author Reply: Well, as we all know, it gets much sadder and much darker.. but there will be a light... but not for Denethor - I hope there is one for Alqualonde....

Thanks for your review!

Pearl TookReviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/10/2008
Well written as always Agape!

Odd, in a way, that Alqualondë hadn't spoken to Faramir before.

Poor dear Faramir.

Author Reply: Alqua might have spoken with Faramir if he had been around when Faramir was a boy... as it is, Faramir was already 16ish when the Cat came to Denethor. By that time, the boy was already in Gondor's service, probably might have been a lieutenant by that time. No time for playing with cats.... Sad.

Thanks for reviewing. It is most appreciated.

DreamflowerReviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/10/2008
Oh my. Poor Faramir--but it completely makes sense for Alqualonde to reveal himself to the Steward's Heir at this point in time.

You really bring forth the sense of despair and hopelessness that pervaded the city at that particular point in time. They all feel they are only playing a "waiting game", trying to push the inevitable back.

But I'm glad that Alqualonde assured Faramir of his father's love.

Only Gandalf and Pippin have any hope left right now--and that's the fool's hope they spoke of in previous chapters. *sigh* What a horrid time that was!

Author Reply: I hate to have to write this time of desperation - but there it is... I'm glad it comes through to my readers. It gets worse! But then it will get better. I hope the Cat is around to see it!

I'm glad you agree with the muse - that the Cat really had to 'speak' with Faramir...

Thanks for reviewing!

LarnerReviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/10/2008
At least for the moment he knows that the cat loves his father and will do his best to care for him. And he has plans....

Author Reply: I hope you are right - that that is one weight off of Faramir's shoulders as he goes to do the impossible... hold the garrison of Osgiliath for one more moment.

Thanks for reading!

Grey WondererReviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/10/2008
Alqualondë is needed everywhere! The poor dear is trying so hard to comfort both father and son and they do need it. You can see Faramir's concern for Denethor in the way he relates to the cat. I had tears in my eyes during the part about finding Boromir and laying him to rest. Wonderful chapter.

Author Reply: Thanks GW - I'm sorry it brought you to tears - but perhaps in a happy/sad way?

Isnt' it wonderful that Faramir knew that the Cat and Denethor needed each other??? Love a happy Cat/Master relationship... or is the cat the master???

Blessings!

eilujReviewed Chapter: 13 on 4/9/2008
Ah, so sad!

And what a surprise that he spoke to Faramir. I look forward to seeing Alqualondë's interaction with Faramir after he returns to the city.

Author Reply: Up until now, Alqualonde has not shared his secret with any but the Steward. However, his deep love for the Steward's sons forced him... he could not let Faramir leave thinking his father did not love him, or that Denethor would not 'guard his back.' So he was forced to give up his secret... But what else could a cat of quality do???

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