Okay, NOW Panic! by Boz4PM
aelfwine · 25 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
wonderful update. So, is she going to wind up married to one of the brothers? I look forward expectantly to the next chapter
Author's reply
Thanks. :) And who can say what the future may or may not hold for Penny? After all, Gandalf might have been wrong - she could zap back to the year 2004 after all. ;)
Daynawayna · 25 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Wow Boz. I'm just as enthralled as when I first started reading Don't Panic! back in December 2005. Wow, a whole year!! I just love everything you've done with this; Penny has come so far, and all the characters (cannon and non) are so real and fleshed out it's amazing. I'm sorry for not posting reviews recently. I've been printing out the chapters and reading them at work or offline, and then I forget to come and review them. Needless to say, I am continually amazed at the depth and breadth of this story and it's peoples. Now onward to THIS chapter! I love that Penny and Halladan are starting to be a little "unsettled" around each other; you know I'm one of your biggest Halladan/Penny shippers! :) I love the fact that he made her a ponytail holder, and that he took the time to decorate it. That ranger is at the very least smitten with his ward, and I wouldn't have it any other way! LOL :) I am seriously looking forward to her telling Elrond she'll continue her travels with him because I know he will be genuinely touched and relieved by this. I think it will somehow ease his grief since he will have someone to watch over, someone who can tell him about Arwen's last days and share in his greif. As painful as it would be for Elrond, I know that Penny can help comfort him. But I jump ahead of myself. Going to live with Halladan and Arvain!?!?!? ::does the happy dance:: Wheeee! I love it! I'd thought about it before, but wasn't sure how that would work, but now I know it would and I'm SO EXCITED FOR PENNY!!! :) Now I just hope your real life will give you a breather so you can post faster! LOL Although I have to say (if I haven't before), that when I wrote my mamoth novel, I actually put the story on the back burner for almost 5 years. What few readers I did have vanished, except for the 2 I knew really well. :) Please don't do that to us! (even if I deserve it! roflol!) :) God Bless and thank you for perservering, Dayna
Author's reply
Aw, don't worry about not managing to review every chapter - whenever you're able is great, and thanks for taking the trouble to do so now. :D I'm so glad that you, and so many others, seem still taken with this tale, despite it's length! *lol* Oh, I dunno about 'smitten'. Perhaps, perhaps not. He likes her, yes, but whatever the extent of that feeling may (or may not) be, it's barely even conscious on his part. They just get on well at this point. ;) Oh, I seriously hope I won't disappear again, or at least not before this thing is finished. Even if I have to grind chapters out horribly slowly, I'll stick at it, never fear! :D
Dreamflower · 25 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
*whew!* I'm so glad my computer allowed me to come online and read this! I've been so looking forward to this chapter--and the outcome was very much what I was expecting! I just had a hunch that Halladan was going to offer her that alternative. This was a great chapter--and it means that Penny will continue traveling with them for a while longer! Yay!
Author's reply
Sorry for all your computer woes, and also that this chapter took so long in coming. Glad you approve the direction it's gone in, and it's matched your hopes/suspicions. :) Thanks!
Mopsy · 25 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
SQUEEEE!!! Squee to the max. Another wonderful chapter. I loves the P/H relationship. Halladan is so adorable. Where can I get me a Dunadan? I'm a bit torn. On one hand, the chapter delay is nerve wracking (I understand what you mean of course - RL is RL after all). On the other, it means the story lasts longer. SOo...keep 'em coming in your own time, and be well. :)
Author's reply
Thank you, and you. :)
harrowcat · 25 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
I know what you mean. RL is cutting into my reviewing time dreadfully at the moment so can I just echo everything that Kitty has said, (and so much better than I could)? Great solution to the dilemma!
Author's reply
Thank you. :) And thanks for finding the time to review at all - much appreciated! :D
Kitty · 25 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
I'm glad RL allowed you to finish another chapter. Thank you for taking the time! As my own RL is very busy at the moment, I know how you feel. *does a happy dance* Exactly what I wanted to read! It was so sweet of Halladan to make the hair fastener for Penny and to take care of her shoes for her. And they *finally* came to the solution I'd found months ago - Penny should stay with the Dúnedain - or, even better, with a *certain* Dúnedain, and considering the end of the chapter, it is very likely to turn out just this way :-))) Do I need to tell you that I don't think their embrace was too long? On the contrary *grin* And Halladan would've deserved a 'thank you'-kiss (I know, I am hopeless - but you probably already know that) Aside from this, I agree with the reasons why Penny would feel better with the Dúnedain in the long run. They said exactly what I'd thought already. She would never be happy in Gondor, and I am not sure how she would feel in Imladris for a long time, the more so as probably most of her friends will sail in two years time. And I am sure she will now feel *much* better; to have this difficult choice to make was a very heavy burden for the poor girl. Btw, I completely agree with your AN concerning the twins. In LotR itself it seemed they chose mortality, but the Letters could be interpreted differently, an I chose to believe they sailed in the end. It would be too cruel to Elrond to lose all his children, particularly after all his other losses, and I can't imagine the twins would do that to him, either, seeing how difficult the parting from Arwen is. And Gandalf is a Maia, after all - if he could get leave for Frodo, Bilbo and probably Sam to sail West, why souldn't he get permission for the twins to stay a bit longer? They fought against the Shadow for millennia, after all, and deserved a reward. Now I can wait more patiently for the next chapter. Don't hurry yourself too much about it but take your time, my dear.
Author's reply
I like to think they sailed too. I think most people do who know of the comment in the Letters, but it is open to debate. *lol* at all the Halladan/Penny shippiness around. I shall say nothing on that score - time will tell one way or the other. As you say, though, staying with the Dunedain is by far the best solution for her. Gondor was not really an option - hence her extreme distress and depression at the thought she had truly blown her chance of Imladris when she exploded at Elrond. Thanks for taking time out to review - so glad you enjoyed the chapter. :D
Aelfwine · 24 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Thanks for finaly updating. Great chapter. I look forward to the next one.
Author's reply
You're welcome, and thanks. :)
speckled_llama · 24 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
I completely agree with daw's comment about the cobbler- Penny has adapted so much to her new environment! And do I detect just another hint of Penny/Halladan...? Oooo! As usual, another wonderful chapter with great characterizations
Author's reply
She has changed a lot, and it was a perfect moment to show exactly that. Thank you - I'm glad you liked it, and thanks too for taking time out to review. :)
el_esteleth · 24 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww! *bounces* What a wonderful chapter. Well worth the wait, as always. *bounces* Wonderful Penny/Halladan moments. *grins* And she finally made her decision. *grins.. bounces* That means Penny and Halladan will get to spend even more time together. *bounces* Wonderful chapter. Thank you for sharing. I greatly enjoyed it. *hugs* Es.
Author's reply
I'm glad you enjoyed it! :D
Pearl Took · 24 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Oh, Boz! What a wonderful option!! Poor Edoras. Not quite the armpit of Middle Earth, but aparently close! LOL Things are looking up for Penny :-) Most Excellently Well Done!
Author's reply
Not quite the armpit of Middle Earth, but aparently close! *rofl* Very true, though I think Bree has it beat by just a whisker. ;D And thank you - glad you approve. :)
daw the minstrel · 24 November 2006 · Chapter 40: Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
Boz, I was really struck by the scene with the shoemaker. Penny's sense of propriety has changed, showing how she's adjusting to the culture she's in. That was very nicely and subtley done. I'm glad she's going with the Men of the North. That makes sense.
Author's reply
Thank you, daw. I'm so glad that little moment stood out for you. I had not planned it, but as I was writing the scene and realised the likelihood of such a thing occurring, the reaction of those around her to it, I just knew she would react also as a consequence. As you say, it does show how she has changed, both in herself but also to fit the society around her.
Nessa · 14 November 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
Good morning Boz! Still waiting for the next chapter,but was wondering also if you are ok.This,and "Dont Panic" are two of the best stories Ive ever read on SOA,and I look forward to your writing.Maybe I'll start this one over,as it's been awhile,and you may have things going on in your life that will make you take more time.Such a good story,that I dont mind reading it again,and refreshing my memory of the story.Just know,I'm sticking with you here! Hope things are well with you!Thanks,Nessa Also,I noticed there are 2 of us by the name of Nessa.For any reviews for you should I tack on something else so you know that it's me?? *smiles* Have a good day!
Author's reply
Morning! Yes, my apologies on the LONG wait for the next chapter. RL is getting more and more busy and personal circumstances of about a week ago only exacerbated it. I have just posted on my LJ that I'm actually going to try and go, if not completely offline, then very offline for a week or two because I have next to no decent writing time for Penny these days. So, I am trying to work on it, but it's been near impossible this last month or so! So, chapter is coming, but dunno when. If my plan works then hopefully not too long, but then it might not work... :\ There are two of you?! I had assumed you were one and the same! *lol* Ah, well, if you wish to add something on to make yourself distinct then do do so. :)
Flintheart · 11 November 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
The journey home from war Is one that never ends The memories never fade of grief and fallen friends Each day you wake remember Some have died for you to live honor them by living wisely cherishing each breath you take Each new friend you make Honor them by the life you live not the life you lost
Author's reply
So very true for RL as well as this fic. Thank you so very much for this.
Paladin1420 · 15 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
I really like the way you're treating Penny's story as well the main story from the book. I can understand why Penny has been avoiding Elrond, it must be very unsettling to have one of the highest ranking beings on the planet upset with you. I'm glad she's working through it. The way you portray the mood of the procession as it gets closer and closer to Rohan and the reactions of the elves as the time for leaving draws near is wonderful. I've never really picked up on this from the books, although I'm sure the Professor has it in there, I'm usually rushing ahead to get the hobbits home because I know what's waiting back in the Shire. Please keep it up. I always look forward to the next chapter, even when it takes a while it's always worth the wait.
Author's reply
I've never really picked up on this from the books, although I'm sure the Professor has it in there, I'm usually rushing ahead to get the hobbits home because I know what's waiting back in the Shire. Well, the whole journey from Minas Tirith to Imladris is rather rushed. You get some detail in Rohan, and again at Orthanc, but otherwise it speeds through to the moment the hobbits and Gandalf arrive in Bree. You hear next to nothing about the elves in many respects. The telling point, though, is that Arwen and Elrond take their leave of each other in Rohan separate from everyone and stay a very long time and, while I don't have the book in front of me, so can't give you the exact wording, it's made clear it was a distressing and traumatic moment for them both. Thus I think it not unreasonable for me to extrapolate from that to what I wrote in this chapter, though someone else could just as reasonably write it completely differently. Thanks for commenting. Glad you enjoyed the chapter. :)
Kitty · 9 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
I am so very glad Halladan isn't angry at Penny and, even more important, finally able to talk about his experiences with his brother. It seems to help not only Halladan, but Arvain as well, and I suppose it makes it in some respects easier for others to deal with Halladan. And as the "Halladan Protection Squad" (nice name!) is screening him from questions and other reminders, I hope he can begin to heal. Penny must be relieved that Gandalf approved so obviously of what she did and at the same time accepted her silence because of her promise to Halladan. I think after the debacle with Elrond she needed the reassurance even more. Speaking of Elrond, I am glad Gandalf broached the subject, too, and got her to do the first tentative step back. Though I think it is speaking for Penny that she was still ashamed and avoided Elrond; if she had acted as if nothing had happened, it would have looked as if she didn't care at all. And Penny is probably delighted about Gandalf's (well deserved) praise how she has coped with her odd situation. You described the mood around Arwen and her choice very well and plausible, though I fear my English is not good enough to express my feelings about it; I simply can't find the right words for it. Am glad Éomer was so considerate of the widow and offered help at once.
Author's reply
Yes, I think this process is as important for Arvain's healing and grieving process as it is Halladan, even if Halladan is in a far worse a state than his brother. I'm glad you see Penny's reticence with Elrond as appropriate. It does show a level of maturity on her part (I hope) - something she was seriously lacking way back at the beginning of Don't Panic to some extent. I'm so glad you enjoyed the chapter - thanks for taking time out to review. :)
Miss · 8 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
Finaly, there is chapter 39!! Thank you!! I have nothing to say really, great chap! And I really hope that this story doesn't end very soon....
Author's reply
You're welcome and thank you. Apologies for the delay - RL just leaves me so little quality writing time at the moment. :\
Inglor · 7 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
What I really like about this fic is that it never fails to surprise me. Though I did slap my forehead with a "Duh" about Elrond not holding a grudge. And I tend to agree with a previous reviewer about Penny and the Dunedain. Blah blah, most realistic..., blah blah, great story..., blah, blah, I should be paying for this, etc, etc, etc. *dusts off knees, forhead and hands*
Author's reply
*lol* Well, I'm glad you're still enjoying it enough to continue reading it. Thanks! :)
Bodkin · 7 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
I'm glad Gandalf's words make Penny feel more at ease with Elrond. And that she is part of the Halladan Protection Squad - she did a good job with that noble of Dol Amroth. She is getting on well with the Dunedain of the north - I see her being much more likely to make her ultimate home among them, even if the author refuses to go for the obvious path. The gloom hanging over the elves isn't surprising - the end of Arda is a long time for them all to be separated from Arwen. And the elves are probably more sensitive to Elrond and Galadriel's pain, too. I just hope Penny watches what she eats and drinks in Edoras this time. She doesn't need another dose of illness.
Author's reply
She is getting on well with them, for various reasons, not least of which is that, of all mortals, they are the ones most likely to understand her/be nearest to her wavelength. That she has been of such help to Halladan in turn also helps to strengthen the bonds from their POV as well - it's a mutual thing. All to the good. Ah, but there is some debate as to whether they would even met her after the end of Arda. I don't have the quote to hand, but it does say somewhere (in ROTK or else in the Appendices?) that she and Elrond were seperated beyond the unmaking of the world. Some argue that that cannot be the case and cite other evidence, but it is a valid view that she will indeed be separate forever from her kin. Have no fear - Penny will be very wary of eating anything at all while she's in Rohan. She's not as cabbage as she's green looking. ;P
Mopsy · 7 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
I printed this out (and paid £2.80 for the privilege, such is my devotion) and read it in a coffee shop...and was nearly crying into my coffee. The entire situation with Penny adjusting to being so removed from home and making a new one, having problems and overcoming them slowly, making stupid mistakes...and Halladan. I feel like something is slowly developing between them, but that's probably wishful thinking. If it is romance, it's beautiful, gentle and chivalrous, unlike most of the advances of men I've known, who basically come at you with their tongue poking out and start gnawing at your mouth. Anyway, keep up the good work. And the longer between chapters, the further away the end of the story is.
Author's reply
Good grief, I would call you a loon for paying, but I am too grateful that you would want to read it that much! So glad you enjoyed the chapter and that Penny's situation is still moving to read about, for all it is getting resolved in some respects. Thank you!
aelfwine · 6 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
Thanks for the update . You are such a talented writer! I hope R/L calms down for you soon as I watch for your chapters with baited breath from the edge of my seat. In the meanwhile may your life be pleasant and relatively problem free.
Author's reply
Thank you. :) I'm only glad that you have enjoyed the fic enough thus far to still want more. Thanks for taking time out to read it, let alone review. :)
el_esteleth · 6 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
*bounces* YAY for Penny and Elrond being ok again. *bounces more* YAY for Halladan talking to Arvain and accepting help. *bounces even more* I really enjoyed this chapter... as I've enjoyed all the previous ones. *grins* I just finished reading "Don't Panic" again last weekend and plan on reading "Okay, NOW Panic!" this weekend. *grins* I really enjoy reading your stories and am learning a lot about writing, etc, from reading them. *grins* Thank you for sharing. *grins* There's a Penny where I work and every time I see her (since I figured out what her name was a few weeks ago) I think of Penny. That's actually how I finally remembered her name. :) Silly little anecdote of fanfic intersecting RL, but I thought it was interesting. *grins* Again, thank you for sharing your stories. I greatly enjoy them and look forward to reading more in the future. Es.
Author's reply
:D Glad you liked it. And, see - I helped you remember a work colleague's name! My fics DO have some sort of useful function! Hurrah.
Pearl Took · 6 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
"And perhaps the straightest in his place of them all was one who had not wavered once in his duty, who had stood by his king for at least an hour or more every night while they had journeyed, and ridden beside him every day. As the horns sounded one long mournful note and the wain began to move slowly up the hill and past the mounds of the other fallen kings of Rohan, Merry adjusted his tunic, swallowed, and put on a determined air as he performed his duty by Theoden King one last time." ****************** Ok, I'm a hobbit fanatic . . . but this is so elegant!! A beautiful and varied chapter. I love Gandalf! Your description of how the Elves are feeling is, I think, spot on. I love the Rohirric women being guided to the wrong king, I love Eomer not fussing over the mess up, and I love haow he helps the soldier's widow. Beautiful!!!
Author's reply
Thank you, Pear Took - praise from you on something hobbity is praise indeed. ;D I'm glad you liked the bit with Eomer and the Rohirric widow. I felt it was important we get to see Eomer in 'king mode' as it were, and how, even if he was so young, he became known as such a good and glorious ruler.
Abney · 6 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
OK, well. I've been reading this one for a good long while now, but I've never left a review before (I know, shame on me). I just wanted to say how good it is to see Halladan dealing, and that you made me cry! I haven't actually cried at a fanfic in years, but the last two paragraphs concerning Merry just really got to me. And believe me, none of your faithful readers (me included) begrudges you a month or two to finish the chapters when they're this good!
Author's reply
Oh, don't worry about not reviewing previously - I'm just grateful that you took time out now to let me know you are enjoying it all so far. Yeah, that last bit with Merry's been commented on by a few people. It was a last minute thing, just as I was writing the end of the chapter it suddenly occurred to me what Merry's POV/position would be, and I found it moving to think about and felt I had no choice but include it. Thank you!
Dreamflower · 6 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
Wow! A great chapter, and one well worth waiting for: I don't mind waiting for fics to be updated as long as I know that they *will* be, and that they will be of high quality when they appear. There was so much to like about this: Penny is resolving the problems surrounding her presence one by one--it seems that she should have a fairly clear head when her decision must ultimately be made. I especially liked her diversion of the lord from Dol Amroth, and her conversation with Gandal--wily old fox! LOL! And that last paragraph made me tear up. Poor Merry! I always felt so badly for him in this situation--such a difficult one for a hobbit! But he bore it all with such bravery and dignity. And, you know, I didn't even think about the song when I saw the title! LOL! Of course *now* it's in my head! Look forward to more when you are able to get it done!
Author's reply
Thank you, Dreamflower, I'm so glad you liked it. I dunno how clear her head will be - this is Penny we are talking about, after all - especially given she'll be angsting on behalf of Arwen and Elrond half the time I suspect, and she's still going to be all over the place as to where to stay, but yeah, things in this chapter will have helped in some respects. Gandalf IS a wily old fox. I always liked that aspect of him - that gentle mockery and laughter with the hobbits, and yet plotting and planning, weaving his web with meticulous care. *hugs Merry* Poor Merry indeed. And sorry for putting the song in your head, but at least you now know my pain. ;P
Yanic · 6 October 2006 · Chapter 39: The Final Countdown
I was so excited to see an update on this! And might I add that it was totally worth the wait, as always! I loved that Arvain and Halladan are finally talking it out. Couldn't help but be reminded of the saying that behind every strong man there is a strong woman with the beginning of this chapter. Halladan needed Penny to bully him, although it's quite an image! I also loved how you worked things out between Penny and Elrond, it was an uncomfortable situation for us all. Can't wait to see what her decision is, looking forward to November and its update already!
Author's reply
Halladan needed Penny to bully him, although it's quite an image! Isn't it just? And you're quite right, Halladan did need it. I think once (or if) Penny finally settles and finds her feet she'll feel more able to be her brash self (within reason), since she'll better know how and when to be stubborn and wilfull. She'll become an indomitable old bag given half the chance IMHO. Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for taking time to comment. :)