irene · 7 March 2008 · Chapter 7: An Unexpected Chat
I SIMPLY LOVE THIS STORYY!!!
Author's reply
The cat is pleased that he is able to entertain you. The scribe thanks you profusely!
A Cat in King Elessar's Court by Agape4Gondor
Reviews (386)
Tari · 3 March 2008 · Chapter 7: An Unexpected Chat
A battle of wits between a cat and a Wizzard. What next? This tale gets better with every chapter. Pippin has a guardian cat and doesn't even know it. Tari
Author's reply
Glad you're enjoying this! Thanks for the review...
Tari · 3 March 2008 · Chapter 6: Ill News and Foul Memories
The cat bows as would a soldier and can count. What a hoot. I love it. Wouldn't he have been a neat addtion to ROTK? I think so. Tari
Author's reply
Yes - I think Tolkien having a fox in the tale was totally wasted. Should have been a cat and Minas Tirith is a perfect place for a cat.
Dreamflower · 1 March 2008 · Chapter 7: An Unexpected Chat
This was definitely a necessary conversation--I liked seeing the unflappable Alqualonde flapped a bit by the Wizard's regard. It may have ticked him off a bit to have been "caught", but I think he's going to have a more open mind in regards to Gandalf now. And I'm glad Gandalf asked him to watch Pippin.
Author's reply
*giggles* I don't think Alqualonde is very happy about being flapped... but if it amuses you, he will live with it!
Larner · 29 February 2008 · Chapter 7: An Unexpected Chat
Well, about time he realizes Gandalf is a special person also. And am glad the cat is willing to keep an eye on Pippin.
Author's reply
I'm not sure how 'special' he considers Gandalf... but he is an open-minded cat and will consider all options....
SurgicalSteel · 29 February 2008 · Chapter 7: An Unexpected Chat
An interesting conversation!
Author's reply
Thank you! Strange where the muse will take you. I had no intention of writing this!
shirebound · 29 February 2008 · Chapter 7: An Unexpected Chat
I bristled at that and he realized his mistake. “So, you have no master? Well, I can understand that.” He smiled. “I have no master myself, but that does not mean I do not serve.” My smile returned. A delightful 'conversation'!
Author's reply
Thank you - I had no intention that the two would meet let alone speak. I started to write about the next day and the cat grabbed the keyboard and started typing. Go figure! As for that quote - it is based loosely on Gandalf's about him being a Steward... I liked that line. Glad you liked their little tête-à-tête; I'l tell Alqualonde!
Fiondil · 29 February 2008 · Chapter 7: An Unexpected Chat
Well of course Gandalf would be able to speak to Alqualondë and know what she was about. He is a Maia after all, even if in disguise. “I have no master myself, but that does not mean I do not serve.” Well, I'm not sure if that's strictly true, seeing as how he is one of Manwë's People. *grin* But I suspect he means he has no 'earthly' master and that would certainly be true. I'm enjoying this tale very much, Agape, (as what cat lover could resist?) and look forward to seeing how this all turns out.
Author's reply
This cat had no intention, I thought, of even being seen by Gandalf... so I was surprised to see them meet! I'm sure he considers himself a servant of the Valar - but who on Middle-earth knows his true identity! Very glad to see you're enjoying this - however, I have no idea where the muse or the cat are taking me - I am betwixt two very powerful forces! LOL
eiluj · 28 February 2008 · Chapter 7: An Unexpected Chat
I am still loving your portrayal of this cat with his difficult and mixed allegiances. Watered milk! Poor baby!
Author's reply
Bless you and thank you for the review.... As for the watered milk - poor Pip comments about it in the book the next morning... and the paltry breakfast Gandalf brings him. I just loved it - and to think the cat got some of Pip's milk! ROTFLMAO
Pearl Took · 27 February 2008 · Chapter 6: Ill News and Foul Memories
Denthor's wee spy should have stayed and listened to the hobbit and the boys. But then again, he learned some interesting things. Poor kitty, having to go on rations like everyone else. What a horrible fate his mother had!! It is so sad that often cats are more the victims of torture than dogs - and sad that such things happen to either species! Well done and keeping on eye out for the next installment :-)
Author's reply
He did learn a lot today - from Beregond's treason to the disappointing showing of the 'relief' forces. That must have been incredibly hard for Denethor.... and the cat to have to tell him. I really really hat animal abuse - this, however, is one cat who will not let himself be abused... hmmm - I wonder if he jumps on the pyre to save himself from such a fate.... Naw!!!! Glad you are enjoying this - Author Reply: That's I really really HATE animal abuse.
Dreamflower · 27 February 2008 · Chapter 6: Ill News and Foul Memories
Aww...poor kitty! Though I suppose so dignified a cat as he would scorn sympathy. Seeing so few men come to Gondor's aid, having to report bad news, and then learning about short rations. He's had a very bad day, poor baby!
Author's reply
Alqualonde is very thankful for your concern. He has had a bad day. Of course, he would scorn your sympathy if he was but a common feline, but he is too kind and well-bred for that. Instead, he will purr gently and walk away.
Larner · 26 February 2008 · Chapter 6: Ill News and Foul Memories
At least he is courteous to his feline spy, for which I'm glad. I certainly hope Bergil had nothing to do with Alqua's mother's fate! Poor kitty!
Author's reply
Bless his heart, I don't think Bergil would do that - though the lad seems to be quick to a fight - LOL. Thanks for reading! Blessings...
Inkling · 26 February 2008 · Chapter 6: Ill News and Foul Memories
I love the relationship between Alqua and Denethor...but dread the coming tragic end of it! A pity he won't be able to save his lord from madness and despair... One of the things I'm enjoying about this story is Alqua's fierce loyalty, not just to Denethor but to Gondor. So often it's dogs that are portrayed as loyal, while cats are written as somewhat selfish and out for themselves. And I love how informed he is, even to the strategies of the enemy in keeping help away from the city. A cat to be reckoned with...
Author's reply
Ah ha! You are sadly correct for this is NOT an 'AU' - This is one awesome cat, IMHO. His loyalty will be tested, as many of Denethor's servants/friends/soldiers were that fateful day. Thanks ever so much for reviewing!
Grey Wonderer · 25 February 2008 · Chapter 6: Ill News and Foul Memories
(A cat knows these things, senses them. ‘The Lord Denethor must have cat in his veins,’ I thought ruefully, ‘for, with all my gifts I am still unable to read many. Whereas, I believe he could read one of the Valar themselves, if he put his mind to it.’) I adored this line of reasoning. Lovely chapter and it is nice to see Denethor with the cat in moments of complete relaxation. He lets himself be at ease with the cat.
Author's reply
*giggles* I thoroughly enjoy this cat. And he does love and respect Denethor. Though further along.........
SurgicalSteel · 25 February 2008 · Chapter 6: Ill News and Foul Memories
Poor kitty, forced to watch that sort of thing happen to her mother!
Author's reply
Was sad, wasn't it... but this cat will not let that happen to him!
shirebound · 24 February 2008 · Chapter 6: Ill News and Foul Memories
With a palantir *and* this canny feline, no wonder Denethor knew so much about everything going on!
Author's reply
And a number of spies... Denethor is in the midst of a battle for all of Middle-earth - and he knows it. And - he is just wary enough not to trust anyone. Except our furry creature!
Golden · 23 February 2008 · Chapter 5: Greetings and Salutations
Very nice story. I like the cat a lot and god thanks that one day she will be free of Denethor. Will she then be Faramirs cat? And good that Pip understands so quick, that he should not tell her everything. Write more soon please. :)
Author's reply
Ah - a cat is no easy thing to sway. This one loves and respects Denethor. It will take him a bit to 'switch' allegiances. Writing fast and furiously!
Larner · 19 February 2008 · Chapter 5: Greetings and Salutations
Pippin's quite sharp here! Bless him!
Author's reply
I am enjoying writing a bit about Pip - hope there will be more.
Tari · 18 February 2008 · Chapter 5: Greetings and Salutations
I so love this cat. How does he communicate with humans? Is it through thoughts, or does he actually speak to them. He and Pippin could have such fun. Too bad he couldn't turn Denethor from his path of self destruction. Tari
Author's reply
HI, Yes - it seems to be more through thought than verbal - but then again, any cat worth his salt can make just about anybody understand him/her! LOL Ah Denethor...............
Dreamflower · 17 February 2008 · Chapter 5: Greetings and Salutations
I love how the cat urges discretion, and in keeping Pippin from telling him something he'd feel bound to inform Denethor of, and I love how he's keeping poor Pip company in that big lonely City! I'm really looking forward to seeing a cat's eye view of certain regrettable events that are just over the horizon...
Author's reply
Won't think about regrettable events right now... bwah! The cat is growing increasingly fond of Pippin - though fiercely loyal to Denethor - he knows that some information should be kept to oneself. And as long as Pip doesn't tell him... and he doesnt' figure it out (yeah sure)- well, we'll see how this battle of loyalties will play out. Having a cat to sit with when lonely is one of the greatest joys in life IMHO. Thanks so much for reviewing!
SurgicalSteel · 17 February 2008 · Chapter 5: Greetings and Salutations
I like Pippin being quick to pick up on the cat's non-verbal communication!
Author's reply
Yes indeed - Pip is quick - but I think it's cause he comes from a farm-like community. They'd have to have had 'dealings' with all sorts of animals.
elanor winterflowers · 17 February 2008 · Chapter 5: Greetings and Salutations
Ah! I really like this story! I've been sidetracked for a while in terms of reading, but found your little gem again this morning and just want to let you know I think it's delightful. Among all the epics that we fan-fic writers conceive, this deceptively simple story is beautifully focused and so cleverly woven into the fabric of events in Minas Tirith. I love the cat, and her relationships with Denethor and Pippin, and her initial approval of Pippin based on his interest in food! The perspective is unique and often surprising, lending considerable depth to the cat's role as spy and advisor to the Steward. I totally believe in her; in fact, she's making me look at my own cats rather thoughtfully! Thanks for a charming read!
Author's reply
Alqualende suggests you feed them well - that should ensure loyalty! :) Thanks so much for your kind words. I am truly enjoying writing this! Blessings! Author Reply: Oh *giggles* - don't tell the cat I forgot how to spell his name!
Pearl Took · 16 February 2008 · Chapter 5: Greetings and Salutations
Pippin is being quite quick to pick up on what his new friend is trying to convey. And I understand her feeling toward the "rug rats". Boys are often mean to small creatures. I anxiously await finding out if she likes Bergil. This is such a creative story Agape!! I love it :-)
Author's reply
I think it might take our stalwart creature awhile to become enamored of a small ten-year old boy. Not that Bergil is mean, but boys tend to play 'hard.' I don't know if it's that Pip is quick to pick up on things as it is the cat is QUITE vocal in letting him know exactly what he means! LOL
Pearl Took · 16 February 2008 · Chapter 4: Reports
Sorry I'm late with this chapter. Bless her heart, liking Peregrin Took! He is such a likable lad. And how sad that she remembers Denethor's smile as being like the ones he smiled before his wife died. *sigh* He smiled too few of them afterwards. Wonderful Agape!!!
Author's reply
Hi, Pearl! Thanks so much for the 'wonderful' - it is most appreciated! As for Alqualonde - he is well able to pick and chose his friends. As all cats do. No dogs for Denethor! LOL
Grey Wonderer · 16 February 2008 · Chapter 5: Greetings and Salutations
Oh, good. Pip has made a friend and he is wise enough to know that this time it is the cat's rules they will follow. (This is true with most relationship involving cats.) I was glad to see this update as I am enjoying this very much. I wonder what will happen next and what the Lord Denethor will be told when the cat returns to him?
Author's reply
The poor cat is slowly being torn - his loyalty to Denethor versus his obvious fondness for the Hobbit. I'm not sure which will win over. Or indeed if either really needs to win.... Thanks so much for reviewing!