A Cat in King Elessar's Court by Agape4Gondor
Szepilona10 · 15 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
I loved this story and I am sad to see it be done! God Bless! ~Szepilona10~
Author's reply
I too am saddened over the ending of this tale.... I'm hoping, once I finish Denethor, that the Cat will be ready to tell the Scribe more.... God bless you too!
Szepilona10 · 15 July 2008 · Chapter 38: A New Role
Tobit is one of my favorit stories too. Great chapter! God Bless! ~Szepilona10~
Author's reply
Oh - it's so neat to find another 'Tobit' fan! Thank you so much!
Tari · 7 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
Thank you for taking the time to write this glorious tale. Were there bouncing emoticons on this site, I would post a bunch of them. The only thing that eases the sadness of knowing the end has come is knowing there just may be more in the future. This dear little cat has captured my heart, and Aragorn's it would seem. This story is very different from your others, but was just as enjoyable to read. You rock! Tari
Author's reply
Humor seems to be becoming part of my tales as of late. I think I'm finally healing over a few things in my life... In fact, the next tale that I'm starting is part of that process that Eru uses for some of us to face things that are difficult through the tales He helps us write. If that makes any sense whatsoever! I'm glad you like the Cat - there might be something later on this year - who knows!
Edlyn · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
I'm very late reviewing (as has become usual, alas!) but I thought this was the perfect ending for the story. I do so hope that Denethor was waiting on the other side of death to greet Alqualonde after he was released (I am a firm believer in the idea that God permits those we love to be with us after death, including Cats!). Balian came and sat on the desk as I read this last chapter aloud and saluted the Cat with dignity and respect (perhaps my resident Cat is growing up). I'm still surprised that my comment made such a difference but am glad that it did. Take care, both you and the Cat. Hugs, Edlyn
Author's reply
That is a very nice picture you paint... for the Cat was never disloyal to Denethor nor forgot his love for the Steward... *sobs* Alqualonde, servant of King Elessar, humbly acknowledges Balian's salute and ask if he might like to join the Cat sometime in a quick meandor across the Court of the Fountain and a stop at the Third Company's buttery? Both the Cat and the Scribe accept the hugs and return them with dignity.
Grumpy · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
HI there, just thought I would tell you how much I have enjoyed reading your story of the brave cat; Alqualonde. As a owner of 4 cats I much enjoyed it.
Author's reply
Thank you very much. I haven't been owned by a cat for way too many years... but once you've loved you, I guess you never forget the little things they do to make you their slave.... Blessings and thank you for reading and for the review.
Sarasrati · 6 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
A lovely ending to a wonderful story!
Author's reply
Bless you - I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Grey Wonderer · 5 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
I know, I know, I reviewed this already but as so often happens I thought of something that I wanted to remark upon. It hit me that in the end the cat's thoughts remind me of Pippin as the Troll was falling on top of him. (I felt my King’s tears fall. I tried to lick his face, but the pain from my reumatismi held me firmly in its grasp. ‘I wish Pippin were here,’ I sighed. I looked up at him one more time. The face that so resembled my beloved Denethor smiled back at me. ‘I love you, my King. I have only served you in love.’) Pippin wished for Merry at that moment thinking it to be his last and the cat thought of Denethor and wished to see Pippin once more. Very nice connection. Now, that's all of the reviewing for this one I think. LOL
Author's reply
Oh my gosh - I hadn't even thought that as I was writing... the Cat probably did and giggled at my obtuseness... dratted Cat! But its perfectly perfect - isn't it? Thanks for noticing and bringing it to my attention so that the Cat can't hold it over me!!! *heavy sigh from the Scribe* Difficult living with a Cat, you know!!!
Pearl Took · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
Bravo! Bravo!! Bravisimo!!! A truly marvelous and original tale, Agape :-) Thank you so very much for sharing it with us. Hearty Hugs! Pearl
Author's reply
Many, many thanks, especially for the hugs. The Cat rarely accepts them, but this time, because of your effusiveness, he did. The Scribe grabbed a couple too!!!
Pearl Took · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 38: A New Role
Dear Alqua! I'm so glad he has two legged folk that love and care for him, and that his King will return him to his position in the court. :-)
Author's reply
I was glad too - Aragorn could have turned him over to Faramir and told him to be taken to Emyn Arnen - after all, the Cat was Denethor's cohort... and yet, he saw the love and loyalty in this particular feline and loved him back... *heartfelt sigh* Glad you felt comforted for the Cat - I'm sure he is grateful... well, maybe he's grateful... one never knows with this Cat... the Scribe doesn't :-)
Pearl Took · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 37: Bright As A Jewel
Your liberties are fine - haven't we all taken some liberties with the dear Professor's words? This was a wonderful way to handle Pippin's fall. *applause*
Author's reply
The Scribe tried to bow graciously, but the Cat batted her aside and took the bow instead... Dratted Cat... I don't know if we can ever collaborate together again... Tried my patience to the nth....
Pearl Took · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 36: The Unthinkable
Fantastic! Marvelous! Must read on!!
Author's reply
*blushes* Thank you!
Esquire_of_Rohan · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
Very good! An excellent story! I really enjoyed this one!
Author's reply
Thank you very much! For a tale that was only going to be a chapter or two - this one certainly gook on a life of its own. I'm sure that's because the Cat was so gracious in sharing his tale. Bless you for your kind support and reviews!!!
Neilia · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 999999: Timeline - SPOILERS
Lovely! Thank you for the timeline. Keeps things clear. Love and Hugs to the Scribe, Neilia
Author's reply
I have discovered that, even if it is only a short few days for a tale, a timeline keeps things clearer for the Scribe... With the Cat constantly interrupting his own story and telling me other tales that don't belong to this one, it's hard for the Scribe to keep track without the timeline. Glad it helped!!!
Neilia · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
Fitting end, my dear Scribe! This has been one of the best tales in SOA. You and the cat, of course, deserve all the hugs floating around in space...quite a few, I believe! Love and hugs to the Scribe. Thank you for your note in the Epilogue. Neilia
Author's reply
I am truly blessed to have such a reviewer as you, Neilia. Your reviews always 'made my day.' I can't thank you enough for taking the time to do so. As for 'one of the best' - the Scribe can only blush - the Cat accepts your homage.
Grey Wonderer · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
Lovely from start to finish or should that be 'Finnish'? hehehe Thank you for a wonderful tale and do thank Alqualondë for me, will you? The cat tells a very entertaing story and I'm very glad you chose to share it with us.
Author's reply
LOL - loved the little pun... blessings and thank you for the reviews and support during these past few months. The Cat, being ever wise, knows of your gratitude and graciously accepts it... The Scribe thanks you also.
Larner · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 999999: Timeline - SPOILERS
Nice to have, Agape. Thanks.
Author's reply
NP - I find I need them to write... I get lost in the tangle of characters, places and times... I'm glad you liked it.
Irene · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
THANK YOU! (Both Cat and scribe).
Author's reply
You are MOST welcome. Thank you for your kind support over these many months! The Cat and the Scribe salute you.
Linda Hoyland · 4 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
I'm going to miss this story .The end was very moving. I am so glad Aragorn and the cat grew to love one another and the King found time for the Cat! I do hope one day you will write more,maybe of what the cat thought when he saw Arwen and the White Tree in bloom. Thank you for a most enjoyable read.
Author's reply
So many other things happened to the Cat that should be written... but he has grown weary and the Scribe respectfully gives him his rest... Thank you for reviewing! I too will miss this story....
Baggins Babe · 3 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
oh but.............! Drat! The story is over. *pouts* There is so much else I wanted to see - Alqualonde meeting Frodo and Sam, what did he think of Arwen, Elrond and Galadriel? Did he have the chance to speak with Gandalf? Did he ever find a mate and continue his noble line? How did the other cats in Minas Tirith react when he returned? (I hope they acknowledged him as a hero) I have loved this story - events seen from the unique perspective of a cat, and such a special one at that. I also agree with some of the other reviewers - Beruthiel's cats are mentioned so Alqualonde isn't really AU. As a totally besotted slave to cats I can only thank you for this wonderful tale and hope there will be others in which we learn more about Alqualonde and his mother.
Author's reply
Well, with such an uproar ---- The Scribe promises to harrass the Cat until he decides to speak up once more. Right now he is resting in some verdant pasture with a ball of yarn, a bowl of fresh cream, and a friend at his side... I don't think I can pull him away just yet....
Baggins Babe · 3 July 2008 · Chapter 38: A New Role
*shudder* Cats' eyes are so luminous and beautiful but delicate. An Orc's blood would probably be horribly corrosive. I hope Alqualonde recovers fully (as much as is possible)and I'm sure his knowledge of the city and his network of felines will serve the King faithfully. Loved Gimli's attitude to the healer. He is obviously very taken with this Cat and determined to do whatever is necessary. I like Gimli! Stroke the brave Cat's head for me (respectfully, of course).
Author's reply
Isn't it true about their eyes!!! He will serve the King faithfully for four full years... blessed years for both. As for Gimli - I just have a ball writing him... he is definitely NOT the comic relief that PJ made him, but a compassionate and loyal friend... The Cat gratefully accepts your kindness.
Tigger · 3 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
I certainly hope we see the two of you again. This was wonderful and I loved evey momnet of it. At least Alqua recieved release in the arms of his beloved King, which is so perfect. Cuddled in arms that loved him and respected him the same as Denethor. Lovely. I'd love to see more of Alqua's interactions w/the other felines of The White City. How did they respond to his return w/a missing paw and blind in one eye? Did Alqua have to prove to them he was still the Chieftain of the Cats of Minas Tirith or did they respect him so much, it didn't matter? What? I'm wondering!! ;o) I'll miss reading this. It was so wonderful and true for a Cat lover like me. Thanks Agape!! :o)
Author's reply
Thank you so much for your kind review... and for nuzgulling my poor ankles!!! Of course, I had wondered too, but as I said... the Cat seemed to think, and I agreed with him, that the time has come to end this... However.... if the nuzgul have bitten his three little ankles as well, perhaps we will have a sequel... once I finish Denethor - for the man is getting quite irritated with me!!!! Blessings!
6336 · 3 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
Hi Agape, thanks for the mention, I enjoyed this tail, LOTR and cats what more cold I want. I am sorry to see this tail end but I do have something to occupy my time while waiting for the sequel, I have just adopted two kittens, Mischief and Mayhem and they seem to be living up to their names, when not 'killing' each other they are killing something else, watching them kill each others tail is not to be missed! More please, when the Scribe and the cat are ready of course, Lynda
Author's reply
Wee little kittens... poor Alqualonde was too busy taking care of the Steward to have any of his own.... I'm glad you've got a couple to take care of you....... :-) There could be more - I really did have a great time writing this... and the comments from reviewers like you - made it worthwhile!
Larner · 3 July 2008 · Chapter 999999: A word from the author
No--the only AU element I've seen has been the cat--and Gimli not taking Pippin for dead upon the Pelennor! Heh! Love the commentary you've given us here--and I'm glad I saved the best for last. Thanks for the story!
Author's reply
Well - one of my other reviewers suggested that, since Beruthiel's cats had once been a part of Gondorian history, that the Cat wasn't necessarily an OC... so - it's not an AU.... :-) Very glad you liked the commentary. I am indebted to all who made such comments; it really helped solidify where I was going with this... Thank you for your support during this tale!
Larner · 3 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
Well, he has always served the RULERS of Gondor; and I doubt that Faramir would have been ignored during his stays in Minas Tirith. And, if the Cat has not nine lives, there is still the hope that his children will at one time or another show themselves! Heh! And Frodo hopefully was able to spend a little time with him, after all! And I loved the bow toward one of Tolkien's favorite languages!
Author's reply
Who could ignore Faramir??? I wonder if the Prince ever took him to Emyn Arnen? Oh well.... Oh - drat - I would have loved to have written the Cat and Frodo - already, even without meeting him, the Cat was smitten for this brave Hobbit.... Kiitti http://www.elite.net/~runner/jennifers/thankyou.htm Now - isn't that just the perfect way for a Cat to say thank you. Finnish.. *giggles* looks like Kitty to me....
Dreamflower · 3 July 2008 · Chapter 9999: Epilogue
Aw...a bittersweet ending, but appropriate. And you've left yourself some gaps to fill. Perhaps later you might tell us a little of the intervening time, if the Cat decides to let you in on it. I wonder did he ever find a mate to continue the line, and what he observed in the King's court--maybe someday he will tell us. This was a lovely tale! I will miss seeing more of Alqualonde.
Author's reply
I really hope the Cat might come back and share some more of what he went through and some of his and Elessar's adventures.... perhaps he went to the Shire one time or another to visit Pip... who knows. I have a feeling his mom is thinking she needs to be represented too! Oh my gosh! I hate nuzguls.... Bless you and thank you for your support during this and for your continued reviews!