Or Perchance, When the Last Little Star by Larner
curiouswombat · 12 January 2011 · Chapter 9: The Spring Tournament
Always such a pleasure to find a new chapter of this has been posted. I have to admit to being too sleepy to say anything more coherent just now.
Author's reply
Am do glad that the chapter pleased you! Now, to get some other works moving along a bit--nudging my muse to work on WIPs for a change! Heh! And thanks for letting me know, CW.
Kitty · 21 March 2010 · Chapter 8: Interference
Yay, you updated this! Had already wondered what became of that story; really like it. This chapter left me feeling quite sorry for Lynessë. Her mother is such a pain in the backside with all her interfering! And to be honest, that's just the type of person I quite dislike: People who judge others only by their rank and social standing, not by their character or achievements. No wonder that Lynessë used the chance to escape for a while with Húrin. (Not that she wouldn't enjoy that little outing anyway, mind you). And Rigil seems not much better off, poor guy. Glad the two took him and decided to help a bit to get him away from interfering busybodies. Enjoyed this chapter and hope there will be more soon!
Author's reply
Yes, finally got the next chapter finished! At last! And am working on "Stirring Rings" as well. Maybe something will come of this after all. Interfering mothers are nothing new, unfortunately, and at least Endore does mean well. As for interfering grandmothers--well, having had one such creature I can assure they are even worse than interfering mothers! Heh! Rigil may well come into his own soon, though. We shall see!
Radbooks · 19 March 2010 · Chapter 8: Interference
It was nice to see this story again! I re-read it last night and today to remember what happened before and I thoroughly enjoyed it all over again. Her mom is such a busybody - it would drive me crazy! But, times were so different and so she would have to show her the greatest respect. :)
Author's reply
Indeed, in the past it was the norm for more socially prominent mothers to maneuver their children, and particularly their daughters, into "suitable" matches whenever they could, and said children were expected to simply take the situation as it came and make the best of it. I bet there were plenty of couples that found themselves ruing the matches made for them.
Andrea · 19 March 2010 · Chapter 8: Interference
Interference indeed! But there is good and bad interference. The latter was demonstrated by Lynesse's mother who started matchmaking is soon as she arrived. And the good interference was initiated by Lynesse and Hurin when they allowed Rigil to accompany them. He seems to be a fine young man who deserves a chance to show his qualities. I'd love to see Hurin interfere even more. Thank you for updating :-)
Author's reply
Yes, I finally updated! I can't believe I finally got this chapter written and posted! It's taken SO long! And Lynesse and Hurin definitely depict the two different extremes folk can go to when they seek to interfere in the lives of others! Thanks so for your comments!
curiouswombat · 19 March 2010 · Chapter 8: Interference
How lovely to see another chapter of this story - and with a whole group of new arrivals for Lynessë to deal with, not to mention her mother! I am so impressed by the way in which all these characters have their own, distinct, personalities sketched with just a few deft strokes of the pen.
Author's reply
Thank you so, CuriousWombat--that others feel I've managed to create convincing characters is so reassuring as a writer. And, yes, a new group of folk for her to deal with.
eiluj · 18 March 2010 · Chapter 8: Interference
Many interesting things going on in this chapter, but I was most impressed by Lord Bard's careful and clever answers at dinner. An interesting assumption that the small items made for the Shire were for children. Such fun (not) to deal with antagonistic employees; I'm glad I don't have that hassle anymore. Maybe Lynessë should talk to the farmer with the greenhouse about milder radish varieties. Then again, I'm sure she doesn't believe there might be any radish she could tolerate. Does she ever encounter radish leaves in salad? How does she feel about that? [They're not bad, if occasionally a bit prickly; less prickly if cooked.]
Author's reply
I'd suspect that Gandalf had suggested that those in any deputation sent to Gondor should be most politic in what information they shared regarding other lands and peoples with whom they traded. And considering the types of goods purchased on Bilbo's behalf, and particularly for the Party, I'd think that the folk of Dale would have been easily convinced that the Hobbits appreciated gifts for their children. I agree about dealing with some employees. I've worked with disabled folk all my working life, and I've found it easier working with my students and clients than it has proved dealing with some of my co-workers! Heh! I swear many so-called "normal" folk are far stranger and less cooperative than folk whose disabilities are more openly expressed! Don't know how she likes radish leaves--I may have to ask her that! Thanks so!
Fantasia · 18 March 2010 · Chapter 8: Interference
I have missed this story. It is funny how many times we interfere in other peoples lives and we don't even notice or we think that we doing for good. Looking forward for next update. Thank you,
Author's reply
It's been frustrating that so much of my writing nowadays ekes out in dribs and drabs, but that's how it's been for my longer stories. Now I hope I can keep it up, although the last two paragraphs of this story took three weeks to get written for some dumb reason! And we DO tend to interfere in the lives of others a bit too much, don't we? Thanks so!
Dreamflower · 18 March 2010 · Chapter 8: Interference
How delightful to see another chapter of this! Poor Lynesse-- her mother's still at it! *sigh* And I fear there may be future trouble with "Lady Butterfly" and Lynesse. That's another with an interfering relative-- only she goes along with the manipulation, while Lynesse does not. And Rigil-- with the interest that Hurin and she are taking in him, his future may look a bit brighter. Dare we hope to see some of him in a tale of his own someday? And I have to say, I am very impressed with Lord Bard. He's managed to describe all his part of the world without once referencing the fact that a number of the "small lands" he speaks of are not inhabited by humans! (Though I do wonder: it seems very likely to me that an event as momentous as the Battle of Five Armies would have been heard of, even as far away as Gondor. Surely Ecthelion and his son were aware of who took part in *that*! But perhaps Denethor simply does not wish to bring it up.)
Author's reply
It is amazing what we can believe in--and equally disbelieve--when we put our minds to it, is it not? Yes, I suspect there will be a confrontation between Lynesse and Aldunieth eventually. As for Rigil--who knows what may come of him in future stories? We'll have to wait and see, I suppose. And I do believe Bard was chosen to go on this mission precisely because of his skills as a diplomat. Thanks so for your comments--I appreciate them so much!
Szepilona10 · 18 March 2010 · Chapter 8: Interference
That was a great chapter! I love Hurin and Lynessë together! How old is Rigil? I have been looking forward to this update for a long time! God Bles! ~Szepilona10~
Author's reply
Rigil is in his mid to late teens. And am so glad you appreciated seeing this posted at last! Thanks, Szepiona.
Sunny · 18 March 2010 · Chapter 8: Interference
I see you have managed to pry another chapter of this story out of the Muse. Dare I hope she may become more cooperative about your longer stories than she seems to have been for a while now? Endorë is visiting, I see. And I guess the timing is fortuitious, with so many targets as the matchmaking mama shops for a husband for her daughter – which should have the effect of diluting her efforts, instead of concentrating them on one. ;-)
Author's reply
Finally--it has taken so long just to get the last two paragraphs written satisfactorily for this one. Oh, I DO want to get more written on the longer stories, but have no idea as to how successful it will be. Oh, there will be quite a good number of eligible men about soon anough, with the Spring Tournament coming up! Thanks so, Sunny, for you know how I appreciate feedback.
Linda Hoyland · 5 August 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
I loved learning more about the background of the books and it was fun meeting Bard. I fear Hurin will be jealous! I'm currently working on a story about surviving dragons. One of my readers wrote me a comic drabble in my LJ about why there were flies in the Citadel! Superstitions are always interesting.Here we never put new shoes on a table and spilling salt is considered bad luck. I'm eagerly awaiting more of this.
Author's reply
I find I rather hope Hurin does become at least a bit jealous--it just might move him to begin becoming more assertive in his wooing! Heh! I hope to get back to this perhaps later this week, or early next week at the latest. It's been a stressful week, this past one! I hadn't heard of not putting new shoes on a table as a superstition, but certainly spilling salt and throwing a pinch over your left shoulder or seeing pins or pennies and immediately picking them up are common enough. And I'm trying to finish my next challenge piece in time to get it back from RiverOtter and post it by next weekend! Have fun, Linda!
Kitty · 5 August 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
Like that bit about Emyn Arnen; it made me happy to know that Faramir's wish was fulfilled some years later. Sneaky Denethor! Oh yes, he dragged Bard along on purpose! And Húrin took it quite gracious, though I suspect he's not so happy about this particular guest. Bard is getting along with Lynessë a bit too well ;) Interesting account about how things are in the north; it was nice to see that Elves, Dwarves and Men are now working together.
Author's reply
It appears that Faramir truly loved Ithilien. That he would wish to see Emyn Arnen restored just seems to like him! Just what Denethor's intent was for bringing Bard may not be clear, but he does have his own unique sense of humor. And I suspect that no matter what the feelings Gloin and his son might hold toward Thranduil and his family, Dain has probably done his best to develop, if not cordial, at least mutually respectful relationships with the Elves of the Greenwood. And I suspect Bard was advised not to mention what kinds of peoples they are unless specifically asked--if then. The folk of Gondor have not had much in the way of interactions with Elves and Dwarves for quite some time, after all! Thanks so, Kitty!
Kitty · 5 August 2009 · Chapter 6: A Question of Degree
I always like to see Húrin and Lynessë together, so I enjoyed that visit. I wonder how long it will take until they realise their feelings ;) How very Boromir to simply drag Húrin along without asking his father beforehand! Not that I have anything against his presence, of course *grin* And the snowball fight was fun. Interesting debatte between Lynessë and Denethor about degrees. Admittedly I'm more with Lynessë here. She's a formidable opponent in that regard, I must say. Though I hope she's careful; I sincerely doubt Denethor will appreciate it for her to have the last word too often.
Soledad · 2 August 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
Hmmm... perhaps the appearance of Bard would wake Húrin wake up a little and finally make his move. Otherwise, they would still be unmarried by the time of Sauron's fall.
Author's reply
Oh, I'm certain you have the right of it, Soledad. Heh! Thank you so for the feedback.
Agape4Gondor · 1 August 2009 · Chapter 6: A Question of Degree
Mistress of the Stillroom - Oh good grief! I definitely want to be the Mistress of the Stillroom!!!! "...his younger kinsman’s desires are more a force of nature..."I REALLY like this phrase and Boromir's entrance and everything about those first moments - exactly what I would have imagined Boromir to be like in such a situation. Sure of himself and his place in the Citadel and welcoming of all - someone you would definitely like to know... And her last question.... she and Denethor will lock horns again, I expect. Good chapter again!
Author's reply
Am so very glad you think so, Agape. I am honored! Yes, I do believe that Boromir would be like a force of nature here in his home, with his adoring father and brother both at hand. As for them locking horns again--well, we shall see! Heh!
Radbooks · 30 July 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
Oh, goodie, another chapter! :) I enjoyed it very much, even though I was a little worried about Bard. He was a very nice man, but I was concerned that he might pull Lynesse away from Hurin. However, since Hurin obviously hadn't been paying much attention to her, she should get some attention from other men - she's a very nice person and other people won't take her for granted as he seems to be doing. Hopefully, he won't anymore! :) Thanks so much for sharing. I know it's driving you crazy because it keeps getting longer, but I'm really enjoying it.
Author's reply
Oh, yes, this one keeps growing longer! But I intend to finish it! And although Bard is a decent sort, she's NOT really in love with him, and I doubt he's truly attracted to her, either. And if it gets Hurin moving, it may be worth it!
Raksha The Demon · 30 July 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
OMG! Lynesse and Faramir have found a book given by Elrond to Aragorn, left in the White City by Thorongil! It has to be! You have to write something where Faramir returns the book to his new King, maybe while Elrond is still in town. I think young Bard is sweet on Lynesse; and that Hurin is j-e-a-l-o-u-s... Loved the conversation about Dale. One day, after the Ring War, I hope that Faramir would get to go there as Prince-Steward-Envoy...
Author's reply
Yes, they have indeed found such a book, and HAVE you looked at the last single story I put up there? DO give it a look! It may be that Bard is indeed sweet on Lynesse, or he may just see her as someone he finds friendly in a foreign clime, or he might have been told by his father that the future King of Dale should perhaps look for a suitable mate who might help cement relationships between Dale and Gondor.... And you do love flinging plotbunnies and nuzguls, don't you? Heh!
Kaylee Arafinwiel · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
Did I say Faramir? I meant Boromir, didn't I! *facepalm* The brothers 'Mir shouldn't be *that* easy to mix up! Sorry! *is looking forward to more* Kaylee
Author's reply
Don't worry about it--I just had to remove a Silmaril from the Tower of Ecthelion in order to replace the Palantir that should have been there! Heh!
Sunny · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
Bard seems to be a nice young man. And if he is reasonably attractive, I suppose Húrin may be getting nervous. Although I suppose a bit of competition can add spice to a budding romance. I noticed that Bard is rather circumspect when mentioning the neighboring realms. Denetor may or may not know that those neighboring realms are peopled by Elves and Dwarves, respectively, and Bard is certainly not pubbing anybody’s noses in it. And while the people of Dale may be used to nonhumans, others who are not used to them are likely to be more xenophobic. The book with The Lay of Leithian was definitely Aragorn’s. And as for the inscription – well, we all know that he got his heart’s desire eventually. Which was very similar indeed to _Beren’s_ heart’s desire.
Author's reply
I strongly suspect that Bard has been warned by Thranduil, and perhaps by Mithrandir as well, to be careful what he says of the other races, little of which has been heard of save through tales and song for quite some time there in Gondor. And if you've read my latest single story you'll have learned more about that book! Thanks so, Sunny!
Andrea · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
Competition indeed! Bard seems to be a nice young man and many women would love to marry him, I'm quite sure. But he's not the right one for Lynessë! I'd say she would still prefer Hurin. Let's see if I'm right. And why on Middle-Earth did "Thorongil" leave that precious book in Gondor? I can't imagine he simply lost it.
Author's reply
Oh, yes, nothing like at least a bit of competition. As for the book--well, now you know! Heh! Am trying to catch up on responses for the last few days this morning. Thanks so!
Lady Bluejay · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
Ah, it looks like the first stirrings of romance. Good. Great story. LBJ
Author's reply
Yes, there is more than a mere trace of romance going on here. Thank you so! And the single story I wrote the other day tells the story of the books.... Thanks so, LBJ.
Lady Bluejay · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 5: New Duties
Oh, I am so glad I found this, Larner. What a fabulous story - I love all your detail. And I am extremely happy to discover that I am not the only author obsessed by plumbing LOL . I devised a wonderful system for Edoras, and now there is one for Minas Tirith as well. Must get on with the next two chapters. LBJ
harrowcat · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
Hmm...compertition eh? No bad thing it it nudges Hurin into action. I loved the Rivendell and Thorongil reference.
Author's reply
Oh, yes, just a bit of competition might just be what the doctor--or in this case, the Steward--ordered. And it's been fun finding ways to include echoes of Rivendell here, and to do my own nudging of Denethor by way of the story book and Thorongil's copy of "The Lay of Leithien."
Elena Tiriel · 29 July 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
Ah, I am so enjoying this story, Larner! *Nudges Húrin closer to Lynessë* Complications??? *gets worried* Very nicely done! - Barbara
Author's reply
Well, of course there will always be complications, and to a large extent due to who might be visiting the Citadel at any particular time! Heh!
Kaylee Arafinwiel · 28 July 2009 · Chapter 7: An Embassy from Rhovanion
*snickers* Someone's jealous...good for Hurin! and good for Lynesse! I'm quite liking young Bard though I wouldn't think him a suitor for Lynesse...she won't have anyone but Hurin for sure! And Denethor's quite sneaky isn't he, sending Fara and his friend off on the same mission so they can't lose against each other in competition! Good for him! Well done, still reading and liking it Larner! Kaylee *whose sunburned day was made a bit brighter by this*
Author's reply
Yes, Hurin is a BIT uncertain at the moment. Heh! And sometimes it takes a bit of perceived competition for folks to begin making their moves! Well, at least we know that Denethor is a concerned father, making certain that if Boromir can't compete for the Golden Spurs this year, at least neither will the one who won them last year! Now, to get the next chapters done! Thank you!