Miss
· 21 January 2007
· Chapter 41: In Some Corner Of A Foreign Field
Thank goodness,you've updated....
“Shall we retire to my tent?”
....
My heart was thumping very fast!! I was so exited about their reactions!
It warms my heart that Penny still has a chance to visit Imlardis for on last time. It was a good desicion, because might want to say their farewells....
The last part of this chapter was very mooving. I felt so sorry for Penny.
Where did you leave Penny's dearest elf friend (gosh!! I forgot his name!!!!!!) The one who learend her horseback riding. Does he know about her descion? I learned (in the previous chapters) that he is more close to Penny than Mirith and Eleniel. I guess the funeral part was your firt priority.
Good chapter!!!
Author's reply
I'm glad you enjoyed it - thanks for taking time out to review.
You mean Lindir, I assume? ;D The thing is much of the story has, by necessity, had to focus on the Dunedain, and Halladan in particular, as well as Penny's own issues of late. The elves are around but preoccupied with the coming loss of Arwen - when Lindir leaves Rohan he will never see Arwen again, so too with Mireth. Also the elves have always assumed that Penny would come back to Imladris with them, and many might well have assumed or suspected once Halladan and Arvain took on the role of guardians that she might then one day leave Imladris to stay with them - so it won't be any surprise to them whatsoever.
Lindir has been shown to be quite important within the Imladris hierachy so he would have been involved in the processional with Elrond and the rest.
My apologies for not mentioning him specifically, but his reaction would have been little more than 'And? Is this news?' ;D *lol*
Daynawayna
· 20 January 2007
· Chapter 41: In Some Corner Of A Foreign Field
Yet another amazing chapter my dear. I love how you wrote the burial... very moving. And too, how Penny comes to terms with her own losses in ME and London. I just wish she wouldn't compare her losses to Halladan's or others; her loss is no less than theirs, and she needs to realize that the circumstances of the loss should not belittle the fact that she lost her family. I'm glad she's finally coming to terms with it.
Now it's onward and forward to Rivendell and then.... to Hallbarad's house! :D LOL
Author's reply
Thank you. I'm quite astonished (and thrilled) by how much positive response the burial has had. I hoped it simply made sense, but it seems many found it fitted canon well and moving also - so I'm very pleased!
It's not right of Penny to compare her losses to Halladan, it's true. Alas, it's an all too human thing to do, though. She can only think of Halladan watching Hirvell being butchered to pieces in front of him, the trauma of that moment and how he is suffering as a consequence. She forgets that her situation, as you say, is just as traumatic in some ways. That said she did go through a lot of the process back in Don't Panic, but even so, yes, she know has to go through her own acceptance of the finality of the situation, and it will take some time for that really to sink in.
Now it's onward and forward to Rivendell and then.... to Hallbarad's house!
Indeed! ;D
Bodkin
· 20 January 2007
· Chapter 41: In Some Corner Of A Foreign Field
That was a very powerfully written funeral ceremony. And very well thought out.
I think everyone is of the mind that Penny has chosen the best place for her - and I'm not surprised that the whole atmosphere of grief has been enough to make her realise what she has lost. She's been too busy just trying to cope up until now - but things are starting to settle down a bit and soon she will just have to get on with life. Halladan is being rather gorgeous, though - and very supportive.
Author's reply
Thanks, Bodkin.
She's been too busy just trying to cope up until now - but things are starting to settle down a bit and soon she will just have to get on with life
That's exactly it, and as that realisation dawns, or at least as she accepts that that is the case, at first her loss will seem all too real in some ways, precisely because she has to finally accept and face it at last (and has the time/ability to do so now a lot of other stuff is out of the way). It will be an emotional time for her, but one that will, ultimately, be much more positive in many senses if only because she is not in limbo anymore - she is looking forward at last.
Kitty
· 20 January 2007
· Chapter 41: In Some Corner Of A Foreign Field
Glad to see an update :-) And I hope you feel better.
It is good to see how much all of them approve of Penny's decision to stay with the Dúnedain, and I am sure Penny feels the same.
You described the burial so well I could see all of it before my eyes. Very well done! And I think the parts you took not from JRRT but from the old cultures in the north are not only fitting, but correct as well. I did read a bit about excavations of old graves from these cultures and recognised many details in this chapter.
And it was fitting to let Penny grieve for her family in our times just now. No doubt the burial had to trigger these thoughts, and as she has made peace with Elrond and made her decision where to stay, she is not so burdened with these problems any longer and able to accept the repercussions of her decision. Oh, and need I to mention how glad I was that Halladan came after her and comforted her? ;-)
Author's reply
I do feel better, thanks. Still not completely recovered but MUCH improved, thankfully!
I'm so pleased with the reaction the burial seems to have had - that people felt it was detailed enough so that they could follow it clearly and that it seemed both realistic and reasonable in terms of matching canon. And, yeah, it was the right moment for Penny to stop, take stock and reflect on some things she's not really had time to consider before now.
Thanks - I'm glad you enjoyed it!
el_esteleth
· 19 January 2007
· Chapter 41: In Some Corner Of A Foreign Field
*sniffles*
What a *wonderful* chapter. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Thank you for sharing. It's just wonderful how you're able to portray situations so that they feel real and the people seem real and react in a real manner. Thank you again for sharing. I greatly enjoyed it... even if you did make me sniffle.
Es.
Author's reply
Thanks, el_esteleth. I think it's one of the best compliments you can give an author - that their characters' reactions seem 'real' - so thank you very much for that, I'm glad you found that to be the case in this chapter - it means a lot.
obsidianj
· 19 January 2007
· Chapter 41: In Some Corner Of A Foreign Field
This chapter held a very somber mood, but it was right for the burial and it gave Penny the chance to mourn for her family left behind in a distant time.
I loved the description of the burial. I haven't seen such a detailed description of Theoden's funeral so far, and though you say you made it up mostly, it felt perfectly fitting for the Rohirrim and their noble, beloved king.
Author's reply
Thank you - I felt it was important that the mood imbue everything, as much as anything since the elves were already in a sombre state to begin with. I'm glad you enjoyed it and felt it all worked.
Pearl Took
· 19 January 2007
· Chapter 41: In Some Corner Of A Foreign Field
I'm sitting here in tears - for beloved characters that seem so real and for all who have gone through those sorrows you mention in the last paragraph. This is one of the most impressive accounts I have yet to read of the burial of anyone, fictional or real. This is truly beautiful and powerful.
I'm a hobbit writer, as you know, and your mentions of the four are perfectly done - Merry especially.
Beautiful.
Author's reply
Thank you - that you were so moved means much, as does your approval of the 'hobbit moments'. Thanks for reading and taking time out to let me know you enjoyed it so much.
Dreamflower
· 19 January 2007
· Chapter 41: In Some Corner Of A Foreign Field
*sniffle*
This chapter was just right. Its somber and respectful tone perfectly capturing both the sense of personal grief, as would be felt by those close to Theoden, and of national grief as felt by his people, and of the more general grief felt by others who had been affected by the War.
Penny's time of grieving over her family, whom she will not see again, seemed very appropriate.
I really liked the ritual as you described it. It took in all the canon elements described by JRRT himself, as well as some obviously meticulous research, to meld into a ceremony that was fitting for such a great King and warrior as Theoden had been. Your description of Merry, sobbing at the entrance to the barrow made me tear up as well.
Beautiful job.
Author's reply
Thank you, dreamflower, I'm glad you felt the chapter had a sense of everyone being able to grieve in some way whatever their circumstances. That the 'tone' came through to readers too means a lot - it was something I felt it was important to try and express both so it could inform other matters, such as Penny grieving for her family, but also since I felt it only right that that would be how the Rohirrim would behave for a fallen King and one who was so well loved and respected to boot.
I'm glad too that so many have found the funeral exactly fitting.
Aelfwine
· 19 January 2007
· Chapter 41: In Some Corner Of A Foreign Field
I'm glad you are feeling better and thrilled to have an update to one of my favorite stories online. Stay well and I look forward to reading more.
Author's reply
Thanks, I'm on the mend at last (thankfully). :)
Nessa
· 17 January 2007
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
AARRRGGGHHH!!! Is this the last chapter? Is there More? Actually, I hope that you will be able to continue this story soon. You are such an excellent writer, it would be a sadness if you could not finish because RL got in the way. Love your stories.
Love ya,
Nessa
Aelfwine
· 3 January 2007
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
I am anxiously waiting an update ;o)
Author's reply
My apologies - circumstances have been even more horrendous than usual, to whit: lurgi. Big time. I was ill for four weeks, then was well for not even a week, when I got hit by the vilest flu-like cold imaginable. I am still suffering, though slowly on the mend (and on antibiotics as of yesterday). I would have had a chapter written and posted by now if it were not for that. However, I know where I'm at - having overcome an unforseen MAJOR blip in this chapter - so it's a case of finding the time (and the energy/ability) to get some writing done. If I continue to improve in terms of health and can find some time, then perhaps within a week/week and a half max (depending on my beta's schedule as well, obviously).
Sorry! :\
valjean
· 10 December 2006
· Chapter 18: The Morning After
The game that you call "stick in the mud", is known as "freeze-tag" this side of the Atlantic.
Eilenach
· 8 December 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
I've spent the last few days going through "Don't Panic!" and "Okay, NOW Panic!" Every time I think I've found all the really well-written LOTR fan fiction, I stumble across another one, and yours is way up there! You have filled your stories with well-drawn, believable characters, great descriptions and dialogue, and angsty plot-lines. Your story is set apart from others by the language situation (being dumped into Middle Earth not knowing any of the languages -- Penny needed a Babel fish!,) the realism of living conditions (although as a lover of Eomer/Lothiriel stories I rather hope that Edoras was "enlightened" in the hygiene area,) and the addition of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome to the plot. Altariel's "A Game of Chess" is the only other story I've come across that seriously addresses this issue.
My understanding of a Mary Sue is a perfect non-canonical character of out-of-the-ordinary skill who forms a romantic liaison with a canon character. Penny is definitely not perfect, and pretty ordinary. I do hope her future has some romance, and it seems you are headed that way, hopefully with Halladan! I hope that his role as her guardian does not keep this from happening -- in another story that I read, once a man had become a woman's guardian, he was like her brother, and a romantic relationship was out of the question. Hopefully not in this case!
I will wait patiently for this story to be updated. I understand that real life intrudes terribly. I appreciate it so much that you are willing to spend time on this wonderful story that will never earn you any payment other than the pleasure of your readers.
Author's reply
Thank you so much - both for reading let alone commenting and reviewing.
the realism of living conditions (although as a lover of Eomer/Lothiriel stories I rather hope that Edoras was "enlightened" in the hygiene area,)
Ah, well. Gotta find my means of comedy somewhere, right? Plus, any excuse to make life miserable for poor Penny. ;D
A woman's guardian would indeed be like a brother. In addtion, as has been pointed out by various people, including Halladan himself, if Halbarad had lived he would have taken Penny on as a sort of adopted daughter, which would have meant Halladan really would have been akin to a brother to her. Arvain also, of course.
Eilenach
· 8 December 2006
· Chapter 38: Persuasion
A heartbreaking chapter with great dialogue. I can feel the tension as Penny attempts to get through to Halladan without causing him to blow up and leave. As with all the other chapters, I appreciate your cold, clear look at what the trip with Theoden's bier might REALLY have been like.
Author's reply
Thank you - I'm so glad the dialogue seemed real to you. It's something I do try to get right as best I can.
Woodentree
· 4 December 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
As much as I'd love to give you a decent review with critic points and all that, I am way to overwhelmed to even know where to begin. (plus I am sure that loads of more capable people have already done so. ;))
It took me a while to get to this point (meaning the last update) but throughout the way your fanfiction was incredible. I absolutely adore your writing style and even though I am not that familiar with the whole Tolkien universe, you got yourself a fan. ;)
Unfortunately I know nothing more to say so I hope you feel well reviewed and I'm crossing my fingers that real life wont get any more stressful as I am eager to know how this story continues. :)
Author's reply
Thank you so much for taking time out to comment, let alone read all of this thing so far. And thanks for your kind words and encouragement, I'm so glad you've enjoyed it all so far. :)
AspenJules
· 28 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
*bounce bounce bounce!!* OH, I LOVED this chapter!*bounces some more!* Especially the ending!! *grinning madly* I've thought all along that that would be the best solution, for Penny to go live with the Dunadan. I'm glad that Faelon thinks that his wife would really like her, that means Penny would have a good female friend there, which she would definitely need. AND... it would make it possible for certain relationships to continue to develop!
One thought/question, though. Considering they are her guardians, would Penny live *with* Halladan and Arvain? Do they have their own houses or live in larger communal dwellings like the Elves? If they have individual houses, how appropriate would it be for Penny to live with them, even as their ward? Or would that be what was considered the proper thing? Hmmmm... so much to contemplate. I'm so glad you updated Boz... it was a wonderful chapter! (Even with the sadness of the elves and all...)
Author's reply
Thank you! :D People certainly seem to like this 'alternative' solution, and many hoped or suspected it might be what I had planned, I think.
Your questions are very good and pertinent ones. This is an issue that will be dealt with in coming chapters. :) It would not be appropriate for her, Arvain and Halladan to live all alone in a house together miles from anywhere. That is not what will happen.
Flintheart
· 27 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
To Go or Stay
To stay or go?
And what to say?
And how to know?
The endless choices
multiple voices
offering possibilities
hopes and fears
with answers both
of Love and Tears
Hey, it made me snifle
Author's reply
Thank you. Really. These make my day when you post one of these. :)
runnerbeast
· 26 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
I totally LOVE your story... This was a great chapter.
I'm so glad she made the decision to go with the rangers. I would have been happy if she stayed in Imladris, but I was so scared she was going to go back to Minas Tirith because she felt it was the 'right' thing to do. Thank heavens she didn't. whewww! I'm one of the few, probably, that would be fine if she didn't get together with Halladan *ducks flying objects*, but I really like their relationship and you can kind of see where it's headed, but with your wonderful writing you can never tell. It's always fun - it's always a rollercoaster. I always look forward to the next installment!
Author's reply
Thank you. :)
Well, if it makes you feel any better: Halladan/Penny is by no means certain, far from it, at this stage. Whatever feelings they might develop might not be mutual, and even if they are would they act upon them? Both have huge self-esteem issues and pyschological complications just for a start. Nothing is certain, basically, and should not be taken as a 'fait accomplis'.
Selene
· 26 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
I think it is a great idea for Penny to go and live with Halladan and the others, after all she is mortal. I can't help to think that there is something very nice growing here ;)
I love this story so keep it up.
Author's reply
Thanks - for reading/reviewing and for enjoying the chapter. And yes the fact that she'll be in mortal company is an important point re. her choice of where to stay, I agree.
paranoidangel
· 26 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Oh Halladan's such a sweetie. This was definitely worth the wait.
Author's reply
Thank you. :D
Yanic
· 26 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Oh will they just get a room already! LOL, I actually love the relationship between Penny and Halladan, and I am excited that she finally came to her decision. Staying with the Dunedain really is a great decision, now she just has to stay with one particular Dunadan... I can't wait for the next chapter, but I don't want this story to end... I'm a bit torn here. Thank you!
Author's reply
Thanks for taking time out to review, and I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter. :) To stay with the Dunedain was, as she herself realises, the only sensible solution, the ideal solution indeed. :)
Silvae
· 26 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Just marry her already!
It's good to "have Penny back", and as wondeful as she always is. As you bring to our notice how much she's evolved, I find myself missing Feisty!Clumsy!Penny ^^.
Cheers!
Silvae
Author's reply
*lol* Ah, but it isn't that simple, and who's to say feelings are developing, and even if they are that doesn't mean that they'll be reciprocated fully or even acted upon. ;)
I'm sure there'll be moments for Feisty!Clumsy Penny in the future, but she went through so much in Gondor that she couldn't help but change, the whole business with Elrond in particular, but also all the stuff with Halladan and his illness. It's put things in perspective, meant that she's HAD to mature, has to be more in control of herself and consider social behaviour before she lets rip.
Miss
· 26 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Well, that was some chappie - ride....
"Of the many things raging through Penny’s head as they arrived at Edoras, the most immediate was a genuine fear that she might get ill again and how best she could try and avoid this">>>>> very true!! Seems a very wise thought of Penny!!
The most briljant part of this chapter are Penny's new pair of shoes. Penny, walking to her new home with her new shoes on. And made by Mister Halladan himself. Kind of poetic.....
You are very right to make a change in Penny's personality. But I can't help thinking what her reaction might be at the shoe-maker nerves glares at Hallandn.....would be a good laugh......But reality bites, though I really liked the 'fiery Penny'.
Deep down I knew Penny would choose to live with mortals, but I kind of hoped she would live with the elves. They really get along with Penny and vice versa. She bonded very good with Linder, Merith, Celeb....., Eleniel, and Erestor.
Great chap!!
I can't wait for the next chapter!!!!!!!!
Author's reply
Well, thank you for taking time out to come back and review once you'd read it. So glad you enjoyed it. :D
I guess the thing with the shoes is kind of poetic, though he didn't make the shoes, only bought the leather and had them fixed. It was only the hair tie that he made.
Firey Penny will always be around, but she is that much more settled in some ways, more in tune with her surroundings that it would take quite something to bring it to the surface these days - much like her explosion with Elrond. Indeed, that very explosion means she will be keeping an even tighter control on that side of herself at least for the time being and for the forseeable future, I suspect.
She has bonded very well with the elves, you are right, but nearly every one you mentioned is likely to be leaving with Elrond. While some elves will stay with Elladan and Elrohir, most will leave - it won't be the same place that she knows it as now in two years time.
Miss
· 26 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
THXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXx a BILLION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! NOW I AM GONNA READ....BE RIGHT BACK AT YA WITH A PROPER REVIEW :):D
Bodkin
· 26 November 2006
· Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Very nice episode. Very, very nice. The heart-rending separation of Elrond and Arwen is yet to come, but Penny has made some good decisions, I think. Up to and including her future plans for Corunir. And good longer-lasting decisions, I think. (And here's hoping that Halladan features in them.)
Author's reply
Thanks, Bodkin, I'm glad you thought so.
Yes, the separation is refusing to allow me to get to it at the moment. *lol* Hopefully next chapter (but then I've been saying that for two chapters at least!).
Penny has made some good decisions, I think. Up to and including her future plans for Corunir.
*lol* Quite.