Neilia
· 7 December 2007
· Chapter 6: On Lordship and Responsibility
Oh, this chapter is wonderful! So full of information and hope for the people of Gondor. Lordship and responsibility...if only our leaders would keep at least some of the things the King said at full strength with themselves! *sigh* Then the sacrifices our daughters, sons, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, etc. make on the front would be more 'worth it'. My son is proud of what he could do in Iraq...are we proud of him?
Author's reply
Yes, if only ALL folks would follow the Lord King Elessar's example and admonitions. Aragorn WAS the Elessar and Envinyatar--the healer and renewer, come to the needs of Middle Earth in the wake of the final destruction of the power of Sauron and Mordor, after all--the Sacred King who helps to purify and renew his people and lands.
And I honor your son for his commitment to trying to make things better in this world.
Kitty
· 7 December 2007
· Chapter 6: On Lordship and Responsibility
Ah, now Mistress Gilmoreth (and not only she) knows what Canelmir said in the hearing of the girls. Good. And to know all these thoughtless, from servants overhard remarks are now used against him is so very satisfying :)
I am very pleased that Aragorn stripped Canelmir of his rank and banished him. And I’d love to watch him cooking his own meals and doing the other household tasks *evil grin* The sentence for his cousin seems a bit harsh in comparison, but the Pony is no bad place to be, and maybe it is not too hard for Narthord.
Even more pleased I am that Ivormil gets the chance to redeem himself; he is not bad and now truly trying to improve. The way he accepted the banishment, thinking he would be included, and worried about who would care for his father was promising for his own development.
Pippin’s and Aragorn’s explanations what they were expected to do at home were impressing for everyone who listened, I think. Now all these people know how their new king thinks and what he is expecting from all and that he will not tolerate anyone who is neglecting his or her duties. You know, there are people in our days who would do well to read this story, and this chapter in particular, and then think long and hard about it ...
And I am glad Systerien and her friends are so happy with this change.
Author's reply
Yes, the words of Canelmir come back to haunt him at last. It is satisfying indeed!
In the end it's likely that Narthord will find his own punishment actually pleasurable, while I doubt Canelmir will ever accustom himself to HIS. Meanwhile Ivormil will at last get the kind of modeling he OUGHT to have known with his father, and realizes he is not judged harshly beyond his deserving, although you are certainly right about how his desire to not see his father suffer alone does speak to his own better character.
The admonitions Aragorn offers are very old and traditional ones, I suppose you already realize, and are in keeping with how I see him having been raised. And indeed the people of Gondor are beginning to realize that the King has a far different standard of personal responsibility than many within Gondor have ever thought to know. Those who have ever served as a means of making their living can only rejoice to know that this King truly appreciates what they do, while it serves as a wakeup call for the rest.
As for people of responsibility in RL learning from this chapter--most would never dream that the lesson applies to them--not unless one like Aragorn were set over them to drive home the lesson.
Theresa Greenfalcon
· 7 December 2007
· Chapter 6: On Lordship and Responsibility
I *like* this chapter... gain - I wish that *all* people of power and wealth in the "real world" had to learn this lesson. It's true that some do learn, but there are the Paris Hiltons of the world, of course...
Better then the treat of a piece of good Belgian or Swiss chocolate for me today - thank you again.
T
Author's reply
I'm honored, Theresa. If ONLY more in positions of responsibility and power truly appreciated what this means. Most hear these admonitions regularly, and those who account themselves religious read them again and again in the Gospels; but they seldom appear to accept it is true for them as it was so long ago. And it's NOT just the Paris Hiltons of this world who need to pay attention.
"Even as ye do this for the least of my brethren, you do this for me." Pretty explicit, no?
And to compare this to a piece of good Belgian or Swiss chocolate? Ah, but that is indeed a wonderful compliment indeed. Am having difficulty keeping my hands off those chocolate bars the daughter has sitting on the kitchen counter to be used in the making of almond bark.... Heh!
Linda Hoyland
· 7 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
I loved the sparring.
I was right that Aragorn and Faramir were not fooled in the slightest, I see.I'll be interested in what punishment Aragorn devises.
Author's reply
No, not fooled at all. As for the punishment, I hope it doesn't disappoint, although it would have to be one of the worst imaginable to the likes of Canelmir.
Radbooks
· 5 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
I don't have time to leave a proper review as I'm not feeling well, but I wanted to let you know I loved the chapter and I can't wait for the next one!
Author's reply
Oh, I'm so sorry you're feeling badly--hope you recover well. Next chapter should be posted Friday, God willing and the ISP from Mordor cooperates.
Baggins Babe
· 4 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
I think everyone would be much nicer if they could spend more time with hobbits. Systerien has definitely been influenced for the better since she met our friends from the Shire.
I feel rather sorry for poor Narthord, who can't be expected to bear all the blame for the iffy book-keeping. I'm sure Aragorn will make sure he knows that too. Our wise King and Steward know where to pin the blame.
Looking forward to the next chapter.
Author's reply
Between the King and the Hobbits and seeing their beloved Faramir made a Prince of the Realm, she has known some mellowing.
Unfortunately, Narthord does appear to take the brunt of the punishment--but, then, you will see to what he and his cousin come. In the end the apparently harsher punishment may actually bring him the greater redemption in the end, although that's beyond the scope of this story.
Andrea
· 4 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
If Master Samwise was surprisingly graceful, Master Frodo was wondrously so, and all were now standing, barely breathing, to watch the beauty of the Hobbit’s movements
Great description, Larner! It's like a dance! But while Aragorn had to fight many battles during his life and had to accept the necessity of fighting back, even killing, Frodo would never do so. He still believes that there is something good in everyone. Unfortunately he does not see that it was this belief of his that saved Middle Earth.
I liked how Faramir revealed the truth about the accounts.
Being part of the dower lands granted to the last Queen of Arnor, it passed in its turn to the line of the heirs of Isildur, the most recent of whom has been identified.
Hah! That sentence hit me like it did Ivormil! And it's even better that this poperty is now part of Sam's premises. All three hobbits will thoroughly inspect the books, I'm sure.
Author's reply
It is Frodo's ability to see that there is something worthy of saving in everyone that in the end makes him more worthy himself.
Am so glad you enjoyed that one sentence! Thanks for letting me know. And now it has passed to Hobbits, who will, even from afar, most likely see to it that it is well administered. And it will add reason to examine the books indeed.
Fiondil
· 4 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
Stupidity and arrogance... such a fatal combination. Too bad it's as true in our own world as it is here. And Canelmir doesn't strike me as someone who is capable of reforming, unlike Ivormil. I also feel sorry for Narthond, not for his wrong-doing, but for his possibly feeling that the brunt of the King's ire will fall upon him because of the mistaken belief that Canelmir, as the Lord of Bidwell, is untouchable, while he, while a kinsman, nevertheless has no title to hide behind. An obvious misconception but a likely reason for him going so grey as he did.
Systerien is shaping up nicely. She seems somewhat calculating when we first meet her, but I think her true nature is slowly coming to the fore. Her interaction with the Hobbits and Ivormil are obviously helping.
I can't wait to see how the relatioship between the two young people develop, if only to enjoy seeing Canelmir's discomfort when he realizes his son and heir has a thing for a "mere maid", and worse, the King approving the match. LOL
Enjoying this story immensely, Larner.
Author's reply
I fear you are right--Canelmir has lost too much of his potential, having given himself over to such envy. And there is a political aspect to Canelmir's position that appears to make him look untouchable, although that can and will be worked around.
Yes, Systerien is maturing and mellowing, and much of it is due to the changed aspect of the world about her, including the presence of Lord Elessar, four Hobbits, and a certain young lord of the realm. And Canelmir would be totally appalled to realize where the mutual awareness of his son and a chambermaid might lead.
I do seem to have a thing about chambermaids, don't I? Heh!
Thanks so much, Fiondil.
EpiscopalWitch
· 3 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
I dizzed out a bit during the explication of the accounts (of course, that might be because my company's "Nutcracker" opens the day after tomorrow and I've been working 12-hour days!), but on the whole I enjoyed the chapter. The conversation between Canelmir and Narthord in the beginning, discussing incriminating matters as though Systerien, Airen and the valet reminded me of James Armistead, a slave who volunteered to join the Continental Army during the Revolution. He ended up as a waiter in Cornwallis' camp and picked up an amazing amount of intelligence that he passed along to Lafayette. Nobody thought twice about discussing sensitive information in front of him, and it never occurred to anyone that he could be acting as a double agent.
I'm looking forward to more Ivormil/Systerien interaction!
Author's reply
Sorry about the complications of the accounts, but I an understand being tired. I don't get much sleep on weekends anyway with my work schedule; but with a swift snow in a region where folk aren't good at driving in it I ended up with working 38 hours straight after a fourteen-hour shift Friday night and Saturday morning with a total of about six to seven hours sleep in three days time.
I'd not heard of Armistead, but I'm not surprised. So many will speak openly in front of servants and waiters and the like as if they weren't people at all--a most amazing situation, I've always thought.
Glad you're continuing to read and enjoy it. Thanks so much for the feedback.
harrowcat
· 3 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
I'm reviewing as I read Larner. Not done that for a bit!
Three and a half weeks to turn up is cutting it fine. I just hope that they actually live far enough away for that to be a reasonable excuse. Trust Canelmir to blame his son for his situation. There is a fatherly protective streak but it certainly doesn't have anything of honour to it!
Is it your mind that Pippin has been getting in more practice than Merry, or that, being the youngest he has most stamina? I just loved the sight of Sam and Frodo practising. But, yet another thing curtailed by illness!
Canelmir's defence about why he did not fight holds echoes of Wormtongue's wish to avoid Helm's Deep.
I suspect that Canelmir's servant would be in too much fear of reprisals to speak of what they hear. It is good to see that Ivormil has remembered the proper form of address for Frodo and Sam.
Go, Steward, Go! Faramir is formidable when it comes o money it seems! Beware your sins will find you out Canelmir! Does Gondor have compound interest?
Oh I am positively gurgling with glee over Strider's/Faramir's deviousness. Just happened to arrive just after you left indeed! *g*
And King turns healer at the drop of a hat! And knows exactly who is in the Citidel and what for of course!
Ooh a talent of Merry's that the King had yet to learn of? Well Hobbits are full of surprises!
Oh Frodo! *Harrowcat also huffs in exasperation*
And well-observed Master Balstador!
Great Chapter Larner. Now it is well past my bed-time! Night all
Author's reply
I suspect that, coming from west Lossarnach close to the mountains, Bidwell was probably about a five-day journey from Minas Tirith traveling at a steady pace and in easy stages; if Ivormil stayed one to two days after the disastrous audience, this might just be about the length of time one would expect to see pass, particularly if Canelmir and his cousin were having debates about what records should be shared and which withheld, and which doctored.
Oh, I suspect that being the youngest Pippin had the most determination to prove himself, to find out just what he could do, as well as possibly more basic stamina than the others, now they have access once again to proper rest, food, and comfort. And I suspect that the results of Frodo's wounds would have shown themselves rather insidiously as slowly over time he realized he no longer had the stamina, the full strength, the basic physical well-being, to do what he used to do. He'd be about the equivalent of a Man at about thirty-six when he started out in the body of one about twenty-two; now he must be feeling positively ancient!
There are tales told in my books on the Holocaust of dancers and actors and musicians and so on who were allowed to survive in the camps as long as they continued to provide shows for inmates and camp officials. Somehow, in spite of the starvation diet and heavy workload, in spite of it being less than what many other prisoners knew, and in spite of the rampant typhus and so on, they continued on, dancing or singing or acting or making jokes just one more day and then another; afterwards many of them could no longer do what they'd done during their imprisonment as their pushing themselves while at the ends of physical resources left its mark. That this was possibly true of Frodo as well is all too likely.
I hadn't at all thought of Wormtongue's arguments with Theoden when considering the likes of Canelmir, but the comparison is so apt! Thanks! And I suspect Faramir, having been raised by his father as well as having the gift of reading hearts, once he realized his father had already planned to investigate affairs in Bidwell would suggest this ploy and Aragorn would have bowed to that wisdom. And Aragorn was, after all, raised in the house of the greatest healer in all of Middle Earth at the time--being the Healing King would, I'm certain, be important to him, particularly once he began fully appreciating the strength of the Elessar and it found release of its power through him. And what chance, do you think, has there been for Aragorn to truly appreciate all of the strengths the Hobbits have?
And, I agree--Oh, Frodo!
Balstador and Gilmoreth handle the household of the Citadel pretty well, don't they? And they'd surely appreciate seeing a formerly overly-ambitious girl settling down and finally beginning to mature, don't you think?
Thanks so for the comments!
I've gotten some sleep after a weekend when I might have known perhaps seven hours sleep in three nights of work, so I appreciate how you feel. About ready to go back to bed again.
Dreamflower
· 3 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
Oh dear! Poor Ivormil--he's going to be *so* disillusioned by his father!
And Canelmir has managed to really muck things up "Royally" if you will pardon the pun! But I don't suppose it would have mattered to him if he'd *known* the property belonged to Isildur's heir, since he holds the Kings lineiage in such poor regard.
I love that Merry, Frodo and Sam are going to go through the cooked books. *giggle* Since the property belongs to Sam now, I would imagine that Merry and Frodo, especially, will be *VERY* thorough, LOL!
I enjoyed seeing Systerian's interactions with the hobbits in the garden. Poor Frodo. But I was glad to see Merry and Sam being firm with him and taking advantage to get him to eat and drink.
Author's reply
I agree about Ivormil. As for realizing the property belonged to Isildur's heir--I suspect that, like the Hobbits, many within Gondor truly doubted the King COULD return, much less would. Why worry about an absent landlord as long as no one complains about all the money not being forwarded to the collection account?
I certainly agree about the Hobbits helping in the auditing.
And am so glad you appreciate what Systerien is observing about the Hobbits. Yes, let's get Frodo eating and drinking properly, and not accept him running himself down!
Thanks so for the comments, Dreamflower.
Theresa Greenfalcon
· 3 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
The more this story continues, the more I enjoy it... I was right about Lord Canelmir ! Now - the reaction behind closed doors should be fascinating!!!
Author's reply
I'm so glad you appreciate it, Theresa. Canelmir is beginning to reap a bitter harvest, and will continue not to accept his own responsibility for what he's brought upon himself and his son. Next chapter hopefully to be posted Friday.
Neilia
· 3 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
HeeHee. So Bidwell thought he could put one over on the King, did he? Good thing his son did not know about the 'cheating'. I think Ivormil will make a good 'Lord' once he does some more growing. I like it that he is more serious about learning sword skills. Yep, he might make a good husband for our 'maid' yet!
Author's reply
Oh, Canelmir's learning differently now! Meanwhile Ivormil is starting to act on the lessons learned during his interviews with Hobbits and King shown in "Vocabularly Lessons." If nothing else, he's learning the responsibilities of being an honorable man within his society.
Now, to see if Systerien is truly keeping pace with him!
Andrea
· 3 December 2007
· Chapter 4: Lord in Question
I don't think Aragorn will be fooled by those false accounts.
Canelmir is far too arrogant. His Lord King will notice that, and he will not be amused ;-)
However, I won't have to wait for the next chapter. I can just read on. That's great :)
Author's reply
As, wonder of wonders, I have this entire story completed ahead of time, I am trying to schedule updates to Mondays and Fridays, God willing and the creek don't rise--and the ISP cooperates, of course.
No, Aragorn isn't going to be fooled or amused at all. Hope that the next chapter is as pleasing! Heh!
Kitty
· 3 December 2007
· Chapter 5: The Accounts of Bidwell
Ha, I only needed to read the first few lines and was rubbing my hands in gleeful anticipation of what was to come – it’s too obvious Canelmir is in for a very nasty surprise. And the way he is talking in the presence of servants could very well be his undoing anyway, even if he would get away with all this otherwise. Too stupid for words.
Enjoyed the weapons practice, particularly Pippin fighting Aragorn and Sam at least trying. Really, it would be a shame to have Sting and not to be able to use it, at least in self-defense. And I imagine Frodo would have been a very graceful fighter, if circumstances had been different. (Oh, and maybe you want to change ‚Narsil’ to ‚Anduril’?)
Ah – Canelmir messed with the property of Aragorn himself? One of these he gave to the hobbits? *evil grin* He will rue it, no doubt. Oh, it was so much fun to read what Faramir said about the difference in the records! I can’t say I am sorry for Canelmir and Narthord. Only for Ivormil. But I trust Aragorn not to punish him for his fathers crimes.
Glad to know Systerien is doing so well and Gilmoreth and Balstador have noticed it.
This chapter was a lot of fun – thank you!
Author's reply
Canelmir has forgotten the need to be circumspect in what he says, particularly among those he doesn't know. Those who are convinced of their own cleverness are all too often certain no one will ever question them, and totally overwhelmed when they realize they are NOT invulnerable after all.
Thanks for the catch on Narsil--how I missed that one I have NO idea--when the mind glitches, it does it well!
I do love to imagine folk sparring from time to time, but doubt that Frodo would have developed much stamina by that time; and I'm certain he would only have lifted a sword against others in defense for those he saw being attacked, and for no other reason. But I do think he'd have brought a degree of grace to most of what he did.
Yes, Canelmir did a bit of embezzling, and has now been properly caught, and must pay the price. No, I don't think Aragorn will punish him for his father's offense, either. And changes in attitude that are obviously for the bettter WILL get noticed. Am so glad you approve.
Thanks so much for the feedback.
Baggins Babe
· 3 December 2007
· Chapter 4: Lord in Question
Hmmmm. I don't think it will be a good idea for Canelmir to produce false accounts to Aragorn! I think that will result in more trouble.
I'm delighted to see that Ivormil has become so attached to the King and Frodo - and the pretty chambermaid, of course!
Author's reply
Oh, I agree. Canelmir is nowhere as intelligent and clever as he considers himself, and will reap the harvest he's sown all too soon.
As for Ivormil, he's finding he's at last building his own priorities, and that they are ones of which he might find himself proud.
Thanks so much for the comments.
Baggins Babe
· 3 December 2007
· Chapter 3: A Young Lord Disgraced
Ivormil has more self-awareness than I thought he might. He realises that he has made a huge mistake and is intelligent enough to admit it. I think he will take his lesson on board and be all the better for it.
Do I spy a romance brewing? Wonderful!
Author's reply
Yes, he's had an awakening and is quick to learn from it, which stands to his benefit.
Yes, this is, after all, a romance story primarily.
Linda Hoyland
· 2 December 2007
· Chapter 4: Lord in Question
I fear the father will be less willing to learn than the son. I'm quite sure Aragorn will not be fooled by the amended accounts!
Author's reply
Oh, I agree completely, Linda. Canelmir long ago gave up his integrity, while his son has just had his awakened. No, no question of Aragorn and Faramir being fooled by the amended accounts!
harrowcat
· 2 December 2007
· Chapter 4: Lord in Question
Hmm meethinks cooking the books isn't going to fool Elessar nor his advisors!
True love and respect know no artificial boundaries but peoples' perception of those boundaries can cause such unnescessary difficulties!
I hope that Canelmir can change as much as his son seems to have begun to but I don't think so. Ivormil already shows so much more honour than his father. I am looking forward to hearing more about his mother as you have hinted a lot about her influence.
I am getting quite fond of Galador! I am very glad to see that, in spite of his irritating ways he is also a man worthy of respect and honour. of course, the King saw it even if I didn't! *g*
Sorry to hear that the ISP from Mordor is still causing problems. Mum is home safe and sound and seems to have really enjoyed her week. I didn't enjoy the 90 minute drive back that took four hours on Friday due to rain, wind and a bad accident.
Author's reply
No, not going to fool Aragorn at all. Ivormil is finding his own integrity just as he realizes his father dismissed his own years ago. And we do make such difficulties for ourselves when we accept "class boundaries"--I can see Bilbo, Frodo, and Aragorn all three becoming very dismissive of them, as you know.
As for Galador--he's a rigid sort, but knows his job and does know his proper worth, I think. Certainly he has more integrity than Canelmir has! One doesn't have to be close friends with someone else to admire and respect the other's abilities and innate honor. It's only it's hard for many of us to become close to those who have tendencies toward inflexibility and lack of imagination.
I'm so glad your mother had a good time. I certainly appreciate the traffic thing. I got stuck at work and ended up doing a whole additional ten-hour shift as snow and wind isolated my relief in their own driveways. And one time we arrived at Heathrow in the midst of a terrible windstorm--we saw lorries being picked up by the wind and rolled over on the motorway, one of them hitting John's car a glancing blow near the petrol fill. One van with fiberglass side panels was picked up and literally impaled on a light post. It was rather scary. We were only driving from Heathrow to Banbury, and it took us hours and hours and hours!
But that landing was the smoothest I've ever known. We passengers stood to give the pilot a standing ovation!
Halrohir
· 2 December 2007
· Chapter 4: Lord in Question
Enter the antagonist.
Not everyone, it seems, is optimistic for the future of the Kingdom. Lord Canelmir fears loss: loss of position, of prestige, and now he sees the loss of his son's esteem, as well.
Calenmir finds the political deck is stacked against him - i will be a challenge to see how well he maneuvers himself and finds a new position in the birth-pangs of Gondor.
And we also see, the fascination that our good Ivormil has for Systerien, from afar. And also how his loyalty to the throne of Gondor is growing as well. Will the son outstrip the father? Will he find courtship at court? Please, write on!
Author's reply
If Canelmir fears loss, it is because of what he himself has made of his life and position. And I don't think it's as much that the deck is stacked against him as it is that Canelmir is suddenly realizing he isn't the dealer any more, and his own stacking of the deck is now exposed for all to see.
THIS story is complete--it's just that I'm posting new chapters twice a week until it's all posted. So you will be easily able to see just how Ivormil develops as a person as well as how the relationship grows between himself and Systerien.
Halrohir
· 2 December 2007
· Chapter 3: A Young Lord Disgraced
And now, we see how Systerien has become part of the life of the White City, and we see how court intrigue is beginning to swirl about the newly Reuinited Kingdom.
Mis-steps in protocol and courtesy are bound to happen, and so they have already. Young Ivormil of Bidwell has found a tentative interest of sorts in our good Systerien, to the delight of the major players.
I am enjoying this as time goes on, please, continue!
Author's reply
Ah, yes, court intrigue and activities, particularly as it becomes increasingly obvious the new King is a "hands-on" person who is less impressed by class distinctions than was his predecessor.
This story was written as a sequel to a single-chapter story in my "Moments in Time" collection; you can see precisely how Ivormil managed to make an ass of himself in "Vocabularly Lessons." At least he has shown himself an apt pupil. Both he and Systerien are starting to grow as individuals now that they are exposed to the full court brought together by Aragorn.
Kitty
· 1 December 2007
· Chapter 4: Lord in Question
Canelmir has changed his records to be more presentable? *raises eyebrow* And he thinks he will get away with that? Somehow I doubt it ... and I am waiting eagerly for his comeuppance. Interesting that he dislikes Mithrandir – I take that as a sign that he left an unfavourable impression on the wizard.
Ivormil, on the other hand, I could come to like, I think. Over time, with more experience and education, he’d probably be a better Lord for Bidwell than his father ever was.
Fascinating story – I can’t wait for more!
Author's reply
Yes, Canelmir and his cousin are engaging in some creative bookkeeping changes--don't think they've experienced an audit before. As for leaving an unfavorable impression on Gandalf, I rather suspect he did!
Am glad you are finding yourself liking Ivormil, and thanks so for the feedback.
Antane
· 1 December 2007
· Chapter 4: Lord in Question
“And one thing more--he has stated that all who would serve the kingdom must know the meanings of nobility, honor, humility, and service. And as the exemplar of those qualities he holds forth the person of Lord Iorhael.”
"Some people come into our lives and quietly go. Others stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts and we are never the same." - Flavia
Oh, how much I have learned from "Master Frodo" and his Sam. And much also from their kingly brother.
Advent is coming and I am taking a break until Christmas from hobbity fic reading, though I'm continuing on my book - just to warn you that you won't hear from me for a while. I hope you have a glorious Christmas! Christ is born! Glorify Him!
Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
Author's reply
That is such an appropriate quote, Antane. I think that Frodo would indeed have managed to do just that--leave indelible and treasured footprints wherever he went.
God bless you as you prepare for the Nativity.
Sarah
· 1 December 2007
· Chapter 4: Lord in Question
A very well written and engaging story. Your story has an air of realism and plausibility about it that is hard to attain. Good characterisation and good knowledge of LOTR on display. Very well done!
Hugs,
Sarah xxx
Author's reply
Thank you so much, Sarah. I've now been imagining Aragorn's court beyond what we see in LOTR for the past four years, and I'm always so flattered when people feel what I write does feel realistic and plausible. Thanks so much for the feedback, and hope you continue to follow the story as it's posted--I'm trying for a schedule of twice a week.
Fiondil
· 1 December 2007
· Chapter 4: Lord in Question
Oooh... not only greedy but stupid, too. I'm naive about a lot of things, I will admit, but even I know that you don't take a *new* book to present to the king, you make sure it's beaten up some so it *looks* as if it's been around for quite some time and then you do things to make the ink look faded as if it's been years since the first entry was made. Honestly. Some people are too stupid to live, IMHO. *lol*
Glad to see the son has fallen in more than one way. *smirk* And I wonder if he realizes what his adar and cousin are doing with the books and if he'll tell Aragorn or someone about it. That would certainly show that he's not as stupid or as arrogant as he seemed in "Vocabulary Lessons".
Looking forward to the rest, Larner! Off to read "King's Commission" (again) *grin*
Author's reply
Oh, you are SO right about the doctoring of the books! But Canelmir has become unimaginative in his comfortable life as lord of Bidwell, and has his own reawakening coming swiftly. And in his second "falling" Ivormil will find in the end perhaps that very fall manages to increase the lift he's now getting from those about him.
Will be soon doing a major editing job on "King's Commission," by the way. Am preparing it for submission to HASA for review some time after the new year starts, so as I now have a beta reader we're looking at correcting some spelling errors and inconsistencies in naming conventions, etc. Am so glad you like it--Ruvemir still owns a big piece of me, I find.