A Cat in King Elessar's Court by Agape4Gondor
Linda Hoyland · 7 June 2008 · Chapter 30: The Whole World Will Know
I guess i would faint too if my cats said more than "No" or "hello" in English! I love the way the cat refers to" my king".
Author's reply
Like Faramir, he fell in love with Aragorn the moment he was held in the King's arms. Elessar is truly 'his' King. Thanks ever so much for reviewing!
Grey Wonderer · 7 June 2008 · Chapter 30: The Whole World Will Know
Húrin certainly got a surprise! But then Alqualondë is full of surprises these days. With everything and everyone on edge and with doom breathing down their necks it's no wonder that all concerned are acting less like themselves than usual. I wonder if Alqualondë will get to finish saying what was planned or if Húrin will be unable to accept a talking cat? Loved Alqualonde's observations about the hobbits and his concern for Faramir.
Author's reply
Doom is certainly breathing down their necks... and Alqualonde sees it and cannot sit still while others battle it - even if it means... well, we'll leave that unsaid for a bit.... The Cat certainly loves Pippin and Faramir -
Linda Hoyland · 4 June 2008 · Chapter 29: A Slip of the Tongue
The cat is almost human in this chapter!
Author's reply
The Cat is appalled and hopes that some stress has caused you to offer such a hurtful notation......... The scribe giggles.
Grey Wonderer · 3 June 2008 · Chapter 29: A Slip of the Tongue
LOL I LOVE this! (I put my paws over my head and mewed in distress. My mouth was as unchecked as Pippin’s.) Poor Alqualondë! Just look what associating with Hobbits has done to the cat. This was excellent and now we have a bit of romance? Again, I am so loving this story and Alqualondë.
Author's reply
The Cat didn't tell me about this incident. Faramir did. Don't tell Alqualonde that I 'let the cat out of the bag' - *giggles hysterically* I'm so very glad you are enjoying this. I'm having a ball writing it!
Neilia · 3 June 2008 · Chapter 29: A Slip of the Tongue
uh oh, Alqua let the cat out of the bag! *giggle* Poor kitty is not doing so well is he? Nice touch...the dream about Eowyn and the cloak. :) Neat way to quickly get her into the tale. Hugs, Neilia
Author's reply
Thanks, Neilia.... It was Faramir who insisted that the White Lady be included some way or the other! :-)
Larner · 3 June 2008 · Chapter 29: A Slip of the Tongue
Hobbits! They will insist on being and remaining obbits in spite of all! And the singular would be "Perian" or "Pherian," depending on whose authority you seek! Love the prescient dream of Faramir's and the worry of Alqua for his welfare.
Author's reply
Thank you ever so much for the correction, Larner. Most needed. Yes - Alqualonde (he asks that you refrain from using the familiar form - if you must - just write the Cat) does worry about Faramir but things will change soon and he must 'let Faramir go' whilst taking care of the greater good. A trick he learned from Denethor. :-(
Dreamflower · 3 June 2008 · Chapter 29: A Slip of the Tongue
I think the hobbits must be having an influence upon the Cat! I am quite sure he was *never* so indiscreet before he met Pippin! I loved the description of Pippin and Merry enjoying themselves--being together again has made them quite giddy with relief, I'm sure. And Faramir is dreaming of Eowyn, eh! *grin*
Author's reply
He went some twenty odd years with ONLY Denethor knowing - he gratefully accepts your assessment of the situation... It must be all the Hobbits' fault! Pip and Merry were quite giddy - can you imagine? Both of them thinking, well, at least Merry, that Pip was going off to die... and then Merry being so badly wounded and Pip thinking Merry was gonna die... Yikes! I'm glad the two of them didn't jump on the bed with Faramir... the poor man would have definitely some 'stitches' issues! Author Reply: Oh Oh! And it was great to give Faramir another one of his dreams... this one, at least, was happy!
shirebound · 3 June 2008 · Chapter 29: A Slip of the Tongue
Alqua is such a wonderful liaison between the hobbits and Faramir, and between... well, everyone. I'm sure he's finally feeling busy and more useful.
Author's reply
Thanks shirebound... He's going to really feel busy and useful in a moment...
Esquire_of_Rohan · 3 June 2008 · Chapter 29: A Slip of the Tongue
Very good. I am eager for the next chapter.
Author's reply
Thank you - I am too! Wish I could post faster!!!
irene · 3 June 2008 · Chapter 29: A Slip of the Tongue
Well! Fine! Finally, Alqualonde remembered that there also existed a certain Faramir, son of her late master... Otherwise, charming as ever!
Author's reply
*ducks her head* Sorry, irene... but the sleeping draught would probably last quite some time... and the Cat knows Faramir is in the best of hands... The Cat apologizes profusely...
Baggins Babe · 2 June 2008 · Chapter 28: Comrades Found
Oh my1 Now our brave Cat has a cuddle from Gimli! And he remains polite, even with Gimli's beard getting into his increasingly warm cream! I hope he was able to get to it before it spoiled. I love Gimli and Legolas here - gentle, concerned, and full of love for the Hobbits and for Alqualonde.
Author's reply
Oh good grief - I'm sorry - I missed responding to a couple of your reviews... and they were soooo worthwhile. Forgive me! Yes, cream and a hug - almost too much to bear :-) I too loved Gimli and Legolas - perhaps, if there is a sequel, they will spend more time with the Cat.
Baggins Babe · 2 June 2008 · Chapter 27: Allegiance
Awwww! I love the image of the Cat having a cuddle with Aragorn - and swearing his oath. The dear brave soul. Now he has been given a number of responsibilities but he will carry out his duties wisely I am sure. *bows in honour of Alqualonde's high lineage*
Author's reply
Very sorry for the late response... just going thru the tale to make sure I responded to all the wonderful reviews and had to thank you for your kind support! Especially for the Bow - the Cat has told the Scribe that she is an idiot to have missed responding to this review. The Scribe is dutifully chastened... Bless you and thank you!
Dreamflower · 1 June 2008 · Chapter 28: Comrades Found
Please, reassure the Cat that I meant no offense by the snicker! It was simply the amusing mental image of Gimli attempting to cuddle him. I don't think the Dwarf really understood cats...
Author's reply
The Cat forgives the snicker. He too had to stifle a laugh. The Dwarf did not even hold him correctly, but what could the Cat do but be gracious?
Grey Wonderer · 1 June 2008 · Chapter 28: Comrades Found
LOL I do believe that a certain dwarf is nearly as disruptive as a certain hobbit! Oh, Gimli! Priceless! I love how he and Legolas came to be of help and the cat was very polite indeed to let Gimli keep him from his cream.
Author's reply
LOL - I think you're right about the Dwarf... at least this one! I love that Tolkien has this Dwarf proud and strong and feisty... The Cat, and Aragorn (and Pippin) will need that, later in the story!
Linda Hoyland · 1 June 2008 · Chapter 28: Comrades Found
Another lovely chapter,both touching and amusing.I'm glad the cat is finding some new friends.
Author's reply
The Cat was desperately in need of friends who were 'removed' as it were from the events in Minas Tirith... and who, he felt, were trustworthy. Thanks for the review!
Pearl Took · 31 May 2008 · Chapter 28: Comrades Found
I think Alqua is a bit too much like his former master - he easily assumes the worst and is quick to take affront. If he had given himself time I'm sure he would have understood why Dol Amroth's flag flew over the Citadel and not been so concerned. But, I think he is starting to learn not to be so hasty in those regards as he was already loath to doubt Aragorn's intentions. I love how you have Alqua relating to Gimli in particular :-) Well Done!
Author's reply
He lived with the Steward of Gondor for eighteen years. The worst always came to Gondor during his lifetime; none can deny that. Taking affront... well, he bristles a lot, but his bark is worse than his bite. Though he is still reeling from Denethor's death and so many other things that I think we can cut him some slack... at least for the nonce. He and Gimli seem to have struck up quite a friendship. I think it's all the hair????
Dreamflower · 31 May 2008 · Chapter 28: Comrades Found
Oh, I loved the image of gruff Gimli trying to snuggle the little kitty...ahem...Cat! I can see that it would be an affront to Alqualonde's dignity, but he was right to be polite; the Dwarf was only trying to help, and probably had no experience of Cats of Alqualonde's caliber. *snicker* And of course, there's no hiding things from an Elf. But his secret's no secret anymore... I think that he will soon be reassured about the way things will be done in Minas Tirith.
Author's reply
I know the Cat already respects Aragorn and that is a huge thing for any relationship.... As for the Cat's dignity - he is court-born and knows to stifle his own discomfort so as not to humiliate another. Especially someone whom he knows is a friend of the king's! Not particularly wise to upset the king. I love the 'caliber' line - the Cat thanks you for noting his 'high' lineage. Though he is hoping the snicker doesn't mean otherwise? In fact, he threatens if the snicker meant what he thinks it means.... The scribe ducks!
Larner · 31 May 2008 · Chapter 28: Comrades Found
More--pleasant--shocks for the kitty to absorb as he comes to terms with the new order. Wonderful!
Author's reply
Thanks, Larner. I hadn't thought the Cat would do much more than 'see' the Elf and the Dwarf in meetings - so this little moment in the inn was a surprise to the scribe too! Glad you are enjoying this!
Neilia · 31 May 2008 · Chapter 28: Comrades Found
Oh, so very grand! I love this! Our kitty unbending to two more folk...an elf and a dwarf no less. I hope he eventually got to drink the cream. :D Can't wait for the next chapter. Hugs, Neilia
Author's reply
The scribe already has decided that the cream was not drinkable... but you know cats - they lick their own fur, for goodness sake! So I'm sure, warm or cold, full of Gimli's hairs or not, he drank it.... Thanks, as always, for the hugs!
shirebound · 30 May 2008 · Chapter 28: Comrades Found
“We are your friends, for Boromir was ours. Does that not make us like unto kin?” How lovely and gentle. Alqua surely needs friends as the foundation of his world shakes and settles.
Author's reply
Shaken but settling is right, shirebound. But so much more to come in such a little time... life is hurtling by the little thing and the scribes heart goes out to him. Don't tell him....
Tari · 30 May 2008 · Chapter 27: Allegiance
What a touching chapter. I can just picture Alqua standing on his hind legs, paw over heart, giving his oath to Elessar. That would really shock anyone who happened to walk by. He’ll be quite busy running back and forth between his charges. That should keep him from worring overmuch about the battle to come. Tari
Author's reply
Hey - there's no way he was standing on his hind paws.... he's shocked you would even think that.... He stood on all fours, head held high, tail up (not wagging like some silly dog) and ears pert and listening.... heart, however, was in his hand....
Stefania · 28 May 2008 · Chapter 999999: A word from the author
Hi Agape - I just wanted to tell you that I really enjoy this story and have no issues with your Denethor. I do find troubling the copious amount of weeping poor Alqualonde goes through. Talk about angst! His coat must be soaked by now. If he were my cat, I'd have him at the vet right away for some eye drops. IMHO, the only one who writes Tolkien's Denethor is Tolkien. So Jackson's Denethor is not Tolkien's Denethor, as you point out. Nor is mine nor yours nor anyone else who writes Denethor. We all have different takes on Tolkien's characters, which is what makes well-written fan fiction so much fun to read. Therefore, I strongly uphold anyone's right to write abusive Denethor fics, while I continue to write Denethor (film-based, yet!) as a strong but terribly troubled leader who loved (and did not beat) his kids. In their reviews for your "explanatory" chapter, people mention the palantir as a "tool of the enemy." The palantiri were not tools of the enemy. They were tools of the Numenorean Kings, as one of the reviewers here (Fiondil, I think) points out. In "Unfinished Tales," Tolkien tells us that during the time of the Gondorian Kings, their Stewards were just as likely to look in the palantiri and report back to the boss. So the Stewards of the House of Hurin had the right (and the duty) to use the palantir. The palantiri were not evil. The problem was, two of the stones got into the hands of evil characters who used their palantiri for evil purposes. Denethor (book and film) got snared and marred and deceived by Sauron (and possibly Saruman) when they discovered him looking into the Anor stone. Denny had a lot of personal issues, not to mention trying to improve the tragic state of Gondor, which could hardly improve his mood. But I think he loved BOTH his sons, though film Denethor had more or less given up on controlling Faramir, in my interpretation. Sorry for being so long-winded. I was troubled that some have criticized you as to whether your Denethor was or wasn't canon enough. Only Tolkien writes canon. But then I went on and on to explain that the "evil palantir" really isn't canon. So first I get annoyed at canonistas and then act like one myself. Geez. I can't win but this has been fun. Keep up the good work. - Steff
Author's reply
Ah Steff... canon vs whatever can be difficult... I definitely have a hard time with nasty, viscious, kid-hitting Denethor, but that's just my own hang-up. Your words are well worth thinking about... As for the Palantir, I have another 'Denethor' tale that I'm in the midst of writing and the Palantir is a prominent 'character' - however, Denethor looks upon it as a gift to the Faithful from the Elves... so its use by Sauron is even more insidious and unbelievable to Denethor than if it had been a plain, seeing stone. If there could be such a thing.... As a gift from the Elves, Denethor cannot believe that it would lie to him... and Tolkien does say that Sauron cannot make it show things that are not true... however, Sauron can manipulate it to show only the darkest things... hence, Denethor's belief that what he sees is true... but not realize that there are other things happening that he does not see... At least - those are my thoughts from reading some of the HoMe books and letters and such.... Blessings! Thanks ever so much for reading. The whole Cat story has been fun... just a quick whim and suddenly the Cat took over. I think this was only going to be one or two chapters. LOL PS - weeping is done for awhile...
Tari · 28 May 2008 · Chapter 26: Questions
What a difficult question for the cat to ponder. Will he finally realize the palantir had corrupted Denethor? This is so sad all the way around. Tari
Author's reply
I don't know if the Cat will ever fully accept a lot of what happened... Sad indeed... thanks for the review!
Linda Hoyland · 28 May 2008 · Chapter 27: Allegiance
This was my favourite chapter so far.What a delightful surprise that the cat should swear fealty to Aragorn and accept a cuddle! I can just hear him purring.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda... I was happy to see it too. I wasn't too sure what the Cat was going to do... especially with regards to Mithrandir... and of course, the king..... Ah - the cuddle was long in coming, wasn't it??? Thanks for the review!
Neilia · 27 May 2008 · Chapter 27: Allegiance
Yes! Kitty is going to be all right! Whew, I am so glad he swore that oath. Sweet little mite. He may think himself powerful, but as all kitties, he needs one human he can totally trust and love. Feral cats are the saddest and live the shortest lives of the small feline population. Yes, I am a passionate 'cat lover' and am not the least timid about it. Hugs for the Scribe, Neilia ^-^
Author's reply
Thanks for the hug, Neilia... especially since the Cat got one from Aragorn! Feral cats are the saddest indeed... But is it Aragorn that the Cat will totally trust and love???