A Cat in King Elessar's Court by Agape4Gondor
shirebound · 21 May 2008 · Chapter 25: A Tent Full of Wonders
Oh my, such bitter and yet such important revelations. The entire world is shifting under Alqua's paws feet, and hopefully he can adjust to a new Age along with everyone else.
Author's reply
Wow - you've got that right, shirebound... It is a new Age - I wonder how the Cat will do...... Thanks for reviewing! Most appreciated.
Linda Hoyland · 21 May 2008 · Chapter 25: A Tent Full of Wonders
I enjoyed this chapter very much as the cat discovers a wider perspective of the world.
Author's reply
Yes - I liked the fact, too, that he saw those who were perhaps deemed 'unsavory' characters in a new light. We'll see how he reacts when he truly meets an Elf face to face... *giggles*
Inkling · 21 May 2008 · Chapter 999999: A word from the author
What to do when you’ve fallen way behind on a story? Read the author’s notes, of course! :) I’ve not read many Denethor fics, but am surprised to hear that some consider yours AU. Your Denethor seems completely canonical to me. Tolkien’s Denethor was such a complex, fascinating, and intelligent character…not the boorish jerk of the film. It’s been a while since I read ROTK, but my memory is not that he was mad…not even at the end, but rather that pride and despair drove him to suicide. His reasoning was actually quite logical, based on what he thought was happening. I think Gandalf’s point was valid, though…that as Steward he should “go down with the ship,” and die in battle defending his people. Their conversation in the pyre scene is wonderful, one of the book’s most memorable, and one of the best articulations of Tolkien’s own views on honor and resistance in time of war. And the scene Pippin witnesses at their first audience with Denethor, when he and Gandalf exchange that electrified look…marvelous! Your Denethor is right in keeping with this, I think, even though I haven’t gotten to the death scene yet. (BTW, you might want to date these notes, or indicate which chapters they pertain to, as I think your story has gone well past this point now, right?) And as for Alqualondë, rather than AU I’d say he falls into the realm of what I like to call “speculative canon”! :) Hope to catch up with the rest of this soon…
Author's reply
Oh good grief, Inling! I've got to figure out what chapter those notes were for too - though they really encompassed the whole tale - they were also quite specific for the canon discussion. I'll go back eventually and do something.. drat I would have thought Denethor would have 'gone down with the ship' too - but I think his overall concern was for Faramir now. He had to 'protect' his son. *shivers* Faramir was really the only thing left to him... Gondor, in his opinion, was lost already and all its people. I hope you enjoy the rest of the story - I think we're coming down to the wire. *giggles* but I've said that before about other stories... and they are still going strong... but this one feels different.
Larner · 21 May 2008 · Chapter 25: A Tent Full of Wonders
I agree about Gandalf having been unable to properly reach Denethor at that horrible moment as he insisted on his own death. Poor Alqua--now the cat begins to understand just how much the Enemy had poisoned his beloved master. And he realizes Gandalf was doing the best he could to encourage the behavior that was truly needed, and that those here realize that none of them could wield the Ring. Now he understands that openness can be an effective strategy for rule. Now, can he truly be comforted?
Author's reply
I do so like the fact that he saw a different way of being leader... not that Denethor's was bad, mind you. Tolkien did use Denethor as a foil to make Aragorn look better... However, to the Cat's eye, Denethor is still the better man - at least for today.......... as his wish that Denethor had been there in the capacity of Steward... I was surprised that he wasn't thinking about Faramir instead.... but there is where his heart is... Comfort? I don't know when - things are happening very quickly now.... Thanks for the review, Larner, most appreciated.
Fiondil · 21 May 2008 · Chapter 25: A Tent Full of Wonders
Hey Agape, I refuse to accept responsibility for your muse! LOL But I do appreciate seeing a new chapter about the Cat. Glad that he's beginning to understand that even if Gandalf had told Denethor about Rohan and all, it still was too late for the Steward. He was doomed. I hope someone besides Gandalf notices him in the tent and offers him comfort. Maybe one of the Elves? Because I can't imagine an Elf NOT noticiing a cat in their midst. *grin* Good read as always.
Author's reply
I believe, Fiondil, that the Elves noticed the Cat - and perhaps someone else too - but their good manners prevented them from bringing him to the forefront as he seemed to want to stay in the background... I wonder if Aragorn told his brothers that the Cat can 'speak' - or if he even remembered, in the midst of the horror of the night of healing...
Tari · 19 May 2008 · Chapter 24: Legacy
Alqua nods at Beregond as he walks past. I can just see it. What a hoot! The affect all the devistation of war has on the cat makes him appear to be almost human. His eyes must have gotten as bit a saucers. However, he seems to have no problem being a cat when it comes to sneaking into Elessar's tent. The little rascal. Tari
Author's reply
Ah - The Cat does not know that Beregond knows.... at least, I dont' think he does???? It will make things interesting, won't it.
Soledad · 19 May 2008 · Chapter 999999: A word from the author
I might get back to individual chapters to comment them later - this is a very lovely story which I enjoy greatly - but I wanted to thank you specifically for this one. I'm one of those rare people who actually like Denethor a great deal, despite everything, and I'm getting tired of having to defend him all the time. Had Tolkien not deleted a few significant lines from the earlier drafts - perhaps to make it easier for the readers to side with Aragorn - people might see him differently... although, knowing poor Thranduil's treatment, not even that is sure. Anyway, great story, and I love your Denethor.
Author's reply
Very glad you are enjoying Denethor and I know EXACTLY what you mean about being tired of defending him. After I saw ROTK - I thought I would see red! I began an epic tale that still continues - though now that I'm approaching the end... I am finding it more difficult to write. It is very long - but begins at Denethor's birth and goes all the way till the end... I have stayed as close to canon as possible, merely creating gap-fillers... I hope you get a chance to read it. I would value your comments - as one Denethor lover to another. The title is Ten Thousand Years Will Not Suffice... it is archived here at SoA. Blessings and keep the faith!
meckinock · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 24: Legacy
Gosh, I hope Alqualonde doesn't decide to attack Gandalf again. It would be a bit awkward to engage in the Last Debate with a hissing, clawing cat all over you.
Author's reply
LOL - that would be a sight, would it not! But I think the Cat has had a moment to calm... he will bide his time...
meckinock · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 23: Reality and Relief
I love Faramir describing himself as nothing but a poor recovering soldier - and meaning it. He has such a wonderful humility about him. And Beregon covering for the cat - poor Pippin. Well, he does tend to open his mouth too much at times. Imrahil is so noble - loved it when he told Faramir he had seen the king, too.
Author's reply
Ah yes, meckinock... Faramir is a dear humble soul... Beregond is indeed covering for the Cat - I wonder why... I definitely do so love Imrahil...
meckinock · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 22: Grief Shared
I always wondered who got to fill Faramir in on the gory details. The cat is a good solution. And I can see how Alqualonde would succumb to survivor's guilt at this point.
Author's reply
Thanks, meckinock. It does seem kind of right for the Cat to be telling Faramir what happened. Gandalf was not privy to the whole thing... nor was Pip for that matter. Survivor's guilt - definitely. Bless you for the review!
Grey Wonderer · 18 May 2008 · Chapter 24: Legacy
Oh, I am looking forward to Alqualondë's discussion with Aragorn. I wonder if Alqualondë will let the fact that Gandalf is there change his mind or if he will go ahead with his plan to speak with the new King?
Author's reply
Sorry - we'll have to wait and see....
Larner · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 24: Legacy
He still has a lot to learn about Gandalf's true nature. I'm glad he's taken with Aragorn, though.
Author's reply
He really seems to be taken with Aragorn... I think it will take some time, if ever, to discover Gandalf's true nature.... The Cat has other things on his mind... However,,,,
Dreamflower · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 24: Legacy
Hmm...now *I'm* curious as to why Merry didn't say anything. And I was glad to see that Faramir was curious enough to at least *think* about asking about "second breakfast". And I am very glad the Cat is going to talk to the new King. I do hope he won't let Gandalf's presence stop him from it.
Author's reply
Oh! I'm glad you caught that about the 'second breakfast' - I certainly felt for Faramir - he seems to be assailed on all fronts with new thoughts, names and oddities! Thanks for reviewing!
Neilia · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 24: Legacy
ooooo, the wizard! Poor kitty. He did not want to meet up with him again. I cried with the kitty over the city he loves. Perhaps the next chapter will tell of some sort of truce? hmmmm? Oh well, you are the Scribe. I am the mere hanger-on, the nosy reader. :D Hugs, Neilia
Author's reply
Ah - you must have some cat-blood in you - curious! The Cat is humbled with your sharing of his deep emotions.
Golden · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 24: Legacy
I just catched up with all the new Chapters. I love the story. It is very well written and the cat is such a fine little character. I like his interaction with Pippin very much and am curious if the cat will really introduce himself to Merry and also what he will say to Strider.
Author's reply
The Cat has NOT told me what he will say to Strider... but I know the Cat and know he will not hold back with anything... but then again, neither will Strider! Pip will not leave Merry alone until they are 'truly' introduced... Glad you got caught up - another chapter will be coming soon!
Baggins Babe · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 24: Legacy
I shall be whining too at this rate! The suspense of waiting for Alqua's meeting with Strider is driving me mad! I do love the hobbits and the Cat's realisation that he should have introduced himself to Merry - of course the proper forms of address should be observed, by cats as well as hobbits! Eagerly awaiting the next chapter, and respectful hugs to the Cat.
Author's reply
Sorry - I know they are meeting, and I know what Estel is going to say, but I haven't a clue as to what the Cat is going to say....... Driving me mad too! The Cat is a proper born Cat... it was really Pippin's place to introduce them, but the Hobbit must be forgiven, after all, dear Merry just got up from what very much looked to Pip like Merry's death bed! The Cat, surprisingly, purred when he saw your respectful hug - he bows in acknowledgment...........
Linda Hoyland · 17 May 2008 · Chapter 24: Legacy
I loved your description of the cat's search for Strider. You conveyed the horrors of war well from this unusual angle.
Author's reply
Thank you, Linda... one has to remember that the Cat was in the upper room of the Tower, in the Hallows, and in the Houses of Healing during all of the siege... This was his first look at the damages done to the Pelennor. A wee bit of his horror and pain was knowing how Denethor knew and had 'seen' this in the Palantir...... *sobs* Oh well.... Thanks for the review!!!!!
Tari · 15 May 2008 · Chapter 23: Reality and Relief
I like the idea of Imrahil giving Beregond support. What he did was very difficult for him, so having this kind of support would mean a great deal. How may people can hear that little rascal Alqua speak beside Denethor and Faramir? First Pip and now Beregond. He wouldn’t be a very good spy if too many people knew. Tari
Author's reply
It's not really his fault, lately. When you consider that he served Denethor for eighteen years and only Denethor knew - well... it's a very difficult time now.
Baggins Babe · 15 May 2008 · Chapter 23: Reality and Relief
'Happy chatter' - yes, that's our hobbits! I hope that their cheerful conversation will cheer both Faramir and the Cat. I really like Imrahil and I loved his words to Beregond. He did what he could, and no-one can do more than that.
Author's reply
I really like Imrahil, too! *heavy sigh* Great character and true blue. I really think he was quite loyal to Denethor... and would only have love for Faramir... and complete understanding for Beregond! The Hobbits will continue to 'chatter' - but isn't it odd how delightful their chatter seems compared to Ioreth's... *grins widely*
Baggins Babe · 15 May 2008 · Chapter 22: Grief Shared
Poor, poor Alqualonde! My heart quite broke for the dear Cat. He feels he should have died with Denethor. I hope he can be reassured that he did do the right thing in following Faramir, and I'm sure that Denethor would have wanted someone so loyal to stay beside his son. I feel another hug coming on for this loyal and dignified Cat - I hope he won't mind. :-)
Author's reply
Right about now, the Cat will take a hug - if it is done quietly and with dignity......... :-) Truly, Denethor would desperately want the Cat with Faramir, especially thinking that Gondor will fall........ :-(
Episcopal Witch · 14 May 2008 · Chapter 12: Comfort
Pippin is a breath of fresh air at the beginning. "I liked the fact that he knew I watched. It was heartening. ‘Mayhap Frodo is not as witless as I think.'" The Cat can make me laugh even as events get worse! The NERVE of that Gandalf. How dare he twit the Cat that way! ‘You have Faramir’s respect and his love.’ Alqualonde sees clearly. If only Denethor could believe this.
Author's reply
Glad the Cat makes you laugh... it will be sorely needed in the future! As for Gandalf... in the books, he can be a bit sharp(e) *grins* I think the Cat will forgive him this... later on? Who knows.... Denethor needs total support now, more than ever. He doesn't see it from his son - not in the way he needs it.. very sad. Blessings and thanks for the review!
Episcopal Witch · 14 May 2008 · Chapter 11: Understanding
So the Cat pads off to keep an eye on Gandalf--and even though he probably wouldn't deign to admit it, to try to find some comfort. "‘So we are the mouse and the Dark Lord the cat?’" Wonderful! "Tears filled my eyes. ‘Why did not you say this to Lord Denethor? He would have understood.’" This is one of those places in this story where I want to jump in and make things turn out differently. If Gandalf had truly gone on to explain his plan...would Denethor have understood? Or although he might have then understood what Gandalf had in mind, would he still have thought it foolish and wrong? One of the constant delights of this story is the way that Alqualonde is always a Cat. The milk, and jumping into Pippin's bed to cuddle!
Author's reply
I really have to giggle, as the scribe. The Cat continues to remind me that HE is the Cat. Yes, I really think the Cat was looking for comfort, but not from Gandalf :-) I want to shake them all every now and again... but this is what Tolkien wanted for his tale and who am I to say he was wrong??? *goes off in a corner mumbling about Boromir being killed* I really don't much think he would have changed his mind about sending the Ring to Mordor. Anyone in their right mind, would think the same thing. Too dangerous, Hobbit too ineffectual as a warrior, Sauron too powerful. Better to hide it. What is interesting is the fact that Denethor would think he could keep it and not be tempted to use it. By this time, the Palantir is an obsession; the Ring would be the same and worse, as we all know!
Episcopal Witch · 14 May 2008 · Chapter 10: Daggers
This powerful and aptly named chapter sent me back to rereading the scene in RotK--a scene I will never again be able to read without seeing the Cat's place in it. I count that quite a gain! The opening was unexpected and moving. I can see that happening, the false news being brought to Denethor. And it makes his reaction when Faramir really was mortally wounded even more poignant. "Faramir responded with a deeper cut. That it was his own father who sent Boromir to his death." Yes! Faramir in his quiet way is dealing wounds just as lethally as Denethor. Tolkien's father and son, as opposed to the movie aberrations, are equally matched. "Blow upon blow they delivered upon each other with nary a thought as to the love between them. Sometimes the words spoken in anger; sometimes in quiet accusation." You have so nailed it. I love how the Cat takes Denethor's part completely, both for love and for reason. "And now, the boy’s own actions were such that any father, even if not the lord of this great City, would have to chastise his errant son." Because sending the Ring into the heart of the Enemy's territory was, on the face of it, insane. The Cat helps us see that afresh. Poor Cat and Pippin, both out of their depth and doing their best; I'm glad they have each other! (Favorite reviewer! My goodness--thank you!)
Author's reply
Once again your review rocks me! Thank you. I sobbed and struggled over this chapter, for I knew what needed saying, and it needed saying in a small space. I'm glad it worked. Very glad, according to your review. I'm in the midst of another tale and have hit a major roadblock because there is something that needs saying there too, and I can't find the 'exact' words that are needed! *groans in despair* I cannot tell you how proud I am that my chapter brought you back to the Master's own work! That is quite a gain. And something I love about writing LOTR canon fanfic. I have to go back to the book always and it is always an eye-opener, a delight, and a joy! I find little treasurs every time. Glad I could help a wee bit!
Grey Wonderer · 14 May 2008 · Chapter 23: Reality and Relief
Ah, Pippin yet again. I did like the way Beregond made good use of Pip's "way with words" and managed to avoid telling about Alqualondë. I like the fact that Alqualondë's secret, while revealed to some will remain a mystery to others. After the terrible choice that Beregond had to make I do think it only fitting that he be one of the keepers of the secret.
Author's reply
Hi, GW! Poor Beregond was torn - he did not want to have Imrahil think poorly of Pippin, but he could not let the Cat's secret out - after all, was he not a Guard of the Third Company? Did he not still owe allegiance to the Steward? And was not the Cat a trusted part of the late Steward's retinue? Though he had NO idea before, just what role the Cat must have played. Can you just imagine him tonight as he sits in his own house and thinks about the Cat??? :-) For the Cat - too many now know a secret that was so long reserved for one. Hopefully, though, this will help in his healing....
Grey Wonderer · 14 May 2008 · Chapter 22: Grief Shared
(He should have died with his master. Is that not what a good servant does?) Somehow I just know that was how Alqualondë felt. I am glad that the two of them were able to share their grief rather than each alone. In the cat's words about Gandalf do I sense that he is not quite as angry as before? Or was that only Alqualondë giving the facts of the matter to Faramir?
Author's reply
I think that, for a moment, clarity bereft of loyalty, came to the Cat. We will see... I think Faramir has much to be grateful for - having Denethor's Cat with him... and vice versa... Denethor's son having the Cat with him.