Episcopal Witch
· 7 February 2007
· Chapter 16: Fire
So the bolt of lightning finally strikes Eomer! Yet he's still so innocent that he doesn't figure out that his "unchaste thoughts" are bound up in his genuine love for Lothiriel. I love the moment when he angrily tells her to wish for the moon.
Wonderful complicit Amrothos!
If you'd ended the chapter at the three asterisks, we'd have had pure romance--but the ending actually intensified the impact of the growing love between Eomer and Lothiriel by showing us how it's about to be threatened. I know they're going to end up just fine, but you've managed to make the suspense very real.
Lovely title for the chapter - so simple, yet covering so much of what happens.
Author's reply
Like Eomer, I think that if you don't have dreams, you might as well be dead - so wish for the moon! But yes, it's all a bit much for poor Eomer to take in!
And there are more threats to their love than just Muzgash and some of them not that straightforward! More next week...
Lia
daw the minstrel
· 6 February 2007
· Chapter 5: Protector of the Weak
Amrothos amused me with his "let's just go take a look." I'd have been dying to go too. A broken-down pony is just exactly the right animal to lay on the King of Rohan. LOL.
Author's reply
Well, being such a connoisseur of horseflesh, he did of course see Gallant Gallador's potential ;-) I'm sure that's why he took him on.
daw the minstrel
· 6 February 2007
· Chapter 2: The White City
So I cheated and read the most recent chapter first to see if I wanted to read this, so I know things I shouldn't. I'm very impressed by what you did with the sensory imagery in this chapter. Clever writer!
Author's reply
Tsk, tsk, tsk. Cheating!
It was fun to write this chapter, trying to give some clues, yet at the same time not give the game away completely. Thank you!
Cuthalion
· 6 February 2007
· Chapter 16: Fire
Brilliant! Éomer, finally recognizing what the rest of the world has seen for a long time, and Muzgâsh, deciding to use a blind princess as a weapon against his foe. I can barely wait for the next chapter. (Oh - and Lady Wilwarin, shamefully neglected - hehehe.)
Cúthalion
Author's reply
Eomer can be a bit slow at times, can't he. Even now, he might not have quite the right impression of what Lothiriel thinks of what just happened.
I quite enjoy writing about Muzgash, he's so nicely villainous (hmm, wonder what that says about me as a person?).
Bodkin
· 6 February 2007
· Chapter 16: Fire
Ooo-er! Eomer has really begun to realise what's happening! (And so has Lady Wilwarin!) I don't think Imrahil is too thrilled at the idea, though. Although Amrothos is definitely on the side of the two as-yet-uncomprehending not-quite lovers. And Eowyn's cheering for them.
Muzgash might actually be Cupid in disguise. A pretty thick disguise, but nonetheless ...
Most enjoyable.
Most.
Author's reply
Cupid? That nearly made me choke on my tea! A very thick disguise, although I suppose he would enjoy the bow and arrow thing.
And Eomer is getting a bit more in touch with his subconscious at last. Now that he's got his ribbon, all he has to do is claim his forfeit... but I have to warn you, it's not all plain sailing from now on (but then you know me - 'evil' is my middle name!)
Lia
Larner
· 1 February 2007
· Chapter 15: Tokens
It appears one important individual didn't sport a blue ribbon that day, and to identify him all Eomer has to do is examine his own forearm. (Grinning widely)
And his heart and imagination are already caught, while his conscious mind still has a bit of a way to go before it is ready to accept he's already in love with the one to whom his future is tied. And LOVE Eowyn's natural antipathy toward Lady Wilwarin. Heh!
Author's reply
Yes, I think Eomer's subconscious has already noticed the lack of a token and might take steps to remedy the situation, while his conscious mind is still lagging a step behind.
Lia
Bodkin
· 1 February 2007
· Chapter 15: Tokens
I think a little bit of jealousy (or whatever he chooses to call it) from Eomer is a jolly good thing! Perhaps, in a while, he'll notice just how much Lothiriel touches his heart - and just how perfect she is for him.
Although the nauseatingly perfect Wilwarin will do her best to throw dust in his eyes. He ought to think the matter through a bit - and realise just how irritating he will find Little Miss Perfect if he is actually stuck with her for any length of time.
I suspect that Eowyn has her plans! Her brother should bear in mind how dangerous she is to cross - or, perhaps, remember that she does actually know what she is talking about when it comes to who will make him happy.
Lovely chapter. But I can't forget that the doom is still in the wings and feel decidedly edgy!
Author's reply
Jealousy? He's just concerned it might not be seemly conduct... maybe he's been reading too much Belecthor? Or being king has gone to his head? But you are right he's really the blind one in this chapter. However, there might be an eye-opener for him in the near future.
And you're right to worry. *ominous music*
Lia
obsidianj
· 30 January 2007
· Chapter 15: Tokens
LOL! That ribbon contest sounded like fun. When will Eomer get his ribbon? It seems he is already envious of all the other men who could get a ribbon without second thought. I hope Imrahil takes another while to figure out his daughters activities.
Author's reply
Well, there is of course still one ribbon around that Eomer might lay his hands on and fortune favours the bold! Imrahil is slowly realizing what is going on and I get the impression he won't be too pleased about it.
ponypetter
· 28 January 2007
· Chapter 15: Tokens
Poor Eomer is jealous. At least Eowyn knows what's up. She's the only one who seems to understand both Eomer and Lothiriel. Typical!
Author's reply
Somehow in my stories Eowyn always ends up trying to manage her brother and his affairs - more or less successfully. And she can be pretty devious!
Cuthalion
· 28 January 2007
· Chapter 15: Tokens
*claps and cheers*
This is fantastic - Éowyn, never fooled by a pretty face and an oh-so-soft voice, riders of Rohan, standing in line to get a blue ribbon from the courageous princess and - last but not least - Damrod winning the contest, together with a rohirric archer. The time frame may not be completely correct, but I don't care - I feel honored!
P.S.: I could kick Éomer - when will that man wake up and see what's lying directly under his nose?
Cúthalion
Author's reply
Hello Mona,
Yes, I know about the time frame, but I needed one of Faramir's rangers, so of course Damrod came to mind. Thanks once more for letting me borrow him and his family!
Don't worry about Eomer, he'll wake up pretty soon...
Lia
Bodkin
· 20 January 2007
· Chapter 14: Strangers and Spices
They should elope. Right away. They are clearly made for each other - and everyone can see it ... except them ... ... ... and Lothiriel's family, probably. Lady Killer-Bee will definitely be able to see it, but that won't stop her. While the Creepy Watcher won't care.
I loved them going through the fair, stopping to listen to all the story-tellers. And Eomer's clever method of avoiding becoming the director of the Rohan Home for Abandoned Dogs. (I think that increased Faramir's recognition of his future brother-in-law's talents, too!)
Only - it's all going too well! All this pleasantness is going to blow up shortly - and the fall-out is going to be hard to take now I'm so lulled into contentment!
Lovely story. Looking forward to the next part.
Author's reply
Yes I agree, they should elope. But their problem is that they're in the clutches of a sadistic author (me), who won't let them! And as usual you're of course also right about the whole pleasant situation shortly coming to an end. Not for a few more chapters, though.
Lady Killer-Bee...somebody told me on another site that butterflies are really pests and even occasionally gather on corpses! So maybe the name was well chosen.
Glad you liked their visit to the fair. We've got a really nice one here every autumn, pretty much as I described this one - just without the strays ;-)
Lia
BM
· 19 January 2007
· Chapter 14: Strangers and Spices
I still have to say that the first story you wrote about Lothiriel and Eomer is still my favorite, but this one is also wonderful! It's a unique idea for the couple and as usual written with your flair for creativity and realism-I hated to reach this latest chapter! You left me hanging, wanting more! and of course, you tantalize me with little pieces of Faramir here and there......:D anyway, great work, I'm really enjoying it and I am looking forward to more--the build up to the climax is driving me crazy! I can't second guess where you'll be going from here and the mystery involving the Haradman and wondering what lengths the lady will go to secure her supposed deserved place as queen of rohan have me on the edge of my seat! Please, keep up the good work!
Author's reply
Thank you very much for your review and what you said about my writing style! There will be more glimpses of Faramir for you along the way, including of his wedding to Eowyn. He's also one of my favourite characters.
I'm busy writing away most evenings, but this has turned into another long story (I think I'm only about halfway) and it's a lot of work. But you'll find out more about the man from Harad eventually and also to what lengths dear Lady Wilwarin is willing to go to.
Lia
obsidianj
· 19 January 2007
· Chapter 14: Strangers and Spices
Another enjoyable chapter. Eomer is learning fast, but may be not fast enough. And what is Lothiriel up to?
I loved the innuendo with the little fireboats. How many times will either Eomer or Lothiriel do something like that in ignorance of the other's customs completely innocent, of course, but it will set the tongues wagging.
Author's reply
Well, at least Eomer is learning how to handle strays! And Lothiriel was only teasing him.
There will be another custom coming up in the next chapter, this time one from Rohan, that has even more tongue-wagging potential...
Lia
Larner
· 19 January 2007
· Chapter 14: Strangers and Spices
Aha--she is a most worthy one to become queen of Rohan one day. And LOVE the question as to what form of thanks Eomer should receive, and Eomer's realization it was indeed time for Eowyn to get married off! Just right!
Now, the assassin is preparing for his assault, is he? And the warrior's instincts are warning him! Excellent.
Author's reply
I'm afraid you'll have to wait for a while yet, before Eomer gets his thanks in a more substantial form than a rind of bread. The assassin has the problem that Eomer is rather well guarded and able to take care of himself, so he'll probably have to look for the proverbial chink in Eomer's armour first.
Lia
Larner
· 19 January 2007
· Chapter 13: The Houses of Healing
Borrowing some computer time and catching up. The princess blinded in an accident herself is perhaps just the right one to help Guthlaf accept he will need to look for alternate ways, but will find what he needs when the time comes. She's been there and done that herself, after all.
Love the encounter and the growing appreciation between herself and Eomer. Yes, this young woman has the strength Eomer needs beside him, whether she sees with her eyes or only her heart.
The ability you show to imagine how Lothiriel would experience her world is excellent.
Author's reply
I agree there are many different ways to 'see' and some people are blind with their eyes wide open. While Lothiriel has perhaps a much truer grasp of the world and her abilities than most people would think. As I believe Eomer is slowly finding out - but he can be a bit blind himself at times!
And thank you for saying that I'm able to show how Lothiriel experiences her world! I find the chapters from her point-of-view more difficult to write, but very rewarding.
Lia
ponypetter
· 18 January 2007
· Chapter 14: Strangers and Spices
When the subject of the dogs came up, I was sure Eomer was going to end up with a herd of strays to go along with his horse. After accepting the horse, he knew he'd have trouble saying no about the dogs. Clever move on his part!
I have the feeling when we get to the races things are going to heat up. Can't wait.
Author's reply
Éomer is getting wise in his dealings with Lothiriel, isn't he. When you can't say no it's much better to avoid getting asked in the first place.
And you're right, the day's not over yet!
Galimeril
· 18 January 2007
· Chapter 14: Strangers and Spices
What a hoot! I love Lotheriel, I don't think I stopped laughing the entire time! Hope you have a good one, can't wait to hear what happens next!
Author's reply
Well, the last chapter was rather serious, so all my pent-up frivolity needed an outlet. More fun coming up in the next one.
Cuthalion
· 18 January 2007
· Chapter 14: Strangers and Spices
Éowyn leaned over to pat Firefoot and flashed Éomer a wicked grin. “And what is my brother going to get?”
Éomer frowned at her. “The princess has already thanked me.”
Lothíriel chuckled. “Anyway, I only had the one piece of bread.”
Éomer could not suppress a certain amount of irritation when his sister doubled up with laughter. It was high time she got married off.
Muahaha! I always admire your skill to write dialogues that simply hit the spot. This is funny and clever... and Éowyn is clever, too. She clearly senses more than meets the eye. *smiles*
Author's reply
Hello Mona,
Yes, I wonder what Eowyn has in mind? More deviousness on her part is coming up in the next chapter in fact. And she's definitely quicker on the uptake than her brother (at least in some things).
Liebe Grüsse
Lia
Cuthalion
· 18 January 2007
· Chapter 13: The Houses of Healing
“If she has any sense at all, she will be grateful you survived. And let me tell you, if your girl decides to turn her back on you for this, you’re better off without an utter fool like that.”
*applauds*
Wise girl. I like her more and more. The whole scene is gripping and dense... very, very well written.
Author's reply
Thank you! I believe that her disability has given Lothiriel insights into life beyond her years. Now if only Eomer wakes up to it!
Alatriel
· 15 January 2007
· Chapter 13: The Houses of Healing
Hi Lia! Hope you had a great Xmas and Happy New Year to you and yours. Let me assure you it was challenging sitting patiently waiting for this chapter but as always it's definately worth the wait. This has turned into such a deep story. I love the pace your taking us through it. And the way you are describing L's disability is quite eye opening. Poor G. You really do have to feel so sorry for him, being a warrior and losing your arm would be a crushing defeat. I like the way you described him in the houses of healing when he was, as one would expect, really focused on himself and what his future would hold if he could no longer be called to arms.
Eomer is enjoying L's company very much and so is Eowyn by the sound of it. I wonder, does Eowyn actually see L as the future queen of Rohan or will she be as shocked as everyone when this romance really takes off? The thought of a blind queen would give Eomers advisers coronaries I'm sure!!!! Ha Ha!
I'm certain it will give Lady W one!
Thanks for the pleasure.
Alatriel
Author's reply
Hello Alatriel,
thank you, I've had a nice, peaceful Christmas and even got some writing done over the holidays. Glad to hear you like the pace of this story - somehow each 'real day' turns into a month's worth of writing, so much is happening!
Guthlaf probably has a rough time ahead of him before he comes to some kind of acceptance of his fate. I thought that at first the natural reaction to something like that would be anger and despair, but maybe Lothiriel can help.
Eomer gets to enjoy Lothiriel's company some more in the next chapter. As for Eowyn, I think she's looking for much different qualities in her brother's wife than is on his 'official' shopping list. And she can be quite devious...
More later this week and thanks for reviewing!
Lia
Bodkin
· 14 January 2007
· Chapter 13: The Houses of Healing
Poor Guthlaf! There's no-one around, though, really, who can better understand what he's going through than a certain Princess. And I'm sure she will do her best for him.
The E/L relationship is going so well - with such support from key players such as Eowyn - that it's hard to imagine it all going wrong. But the honey-voiced stinger is there to do her best to make it all go awry - and I'm sure she will.
Author's reply
Yes, I'm sure Guthlaf will come to appreciate her honesty and she'll keep her word and visit him again.
They are getting along well, aren't they. But you are of course right to worry about things going wrong. Lady Wilwarin hasn't given up yet and neither has a certain lurker...
Lia
obsidianj
· 10 January 2007
· Chapter 13: The Houses of Healing
So, Eomer and Eowyn are already plotting to get Lothiriel out of the clutches of her overprotective father and it worked. Let's see how long it takes Imrahil to catch on...
I loved the visit to the houses of healing. Lothiriel can understand the young rider so well after being through something similar. I love the way Eomer picks up on Lothiriel's distress when entering the houses of healing and how she learns to distinguish small nuances in Eomer's voice. The young rider is also drawn very well. I like his lack of respect to his king when he is overcome by his predicament
and the way he is not ready to accept his situation.
Author's reply
It will take Imrahil a while to catch on and catch up, not till the afternoon in fact.
It's true they are learning to recognize each other's moods and thoughts. I'm sure Lothiriel has a lot of practise by now on how to interpret the tone of someone's voice. And like you said, she has of course been through a similar experience, although naturally she's much further down the road to acceptance than Guthlaf.
More coming up next week!
Lia
ponypetter
· 9 January 2007
· Chapter 13: The Houses of Healing
I'm amazed Lothiriel managed to keep her cool while he complained about the loss of his arm. I can't imagine being so empathic had I lost my sight.
Eomer is obviously falling for Lothiriel too. I wonder when she will start to catch on?
Author's reply
Well, since Lothiriel has been through the same process she probably knows only too well how Guthlaf feels at the moment. Also she shares Eomer's belief of being responsible for everybody around her.
When will she catch on? You'll see...
galimeril
· 9 January 2007
· Chapter 13: The Houses of Healing
Thanks for another great chapter. This is one of the better stories I'm reading at teh moment, if not the best. I enjoy it greatly and it is a much welcome relief from studying for finals.
Agalin thank you for such a great piece, you have real talent as a writer.
Galimeril ;D
Author's reply
Thank you! I enjoy writing it and perhaps because of Lothiriel's disability a few more serious topics than usual have crept into this story, as in this chapter. Also writing from a blind person's point-of-view is a challenge in its own.
Good luck with your finals!
Lia
uhohspagettios24
· 9 January 2007
· Chapter 13: The Houses of Healing
I'm really enjoying this story. It has a lot of depth. The conversation with Guthlaf was so well written. Good job! Keep writing, I'll be waiting. haha.
Thank you for writing!
Author's reply
Thank you for reviewing! I'm pleased to hear you like my writing and what I'm trying to do with Lothiriel and Eomer's story.