daw the minstrel
· 3 April 2007
· Chapter 23: Fogbound
Yeah for Eomer and Eowyn for dismissing the dishonorable Wilwarin.
Now I'm recalling the villain's thoughts about where Eomer's weakspot lay and thinking the ride back to Minas Tirith might not go as smoothly as Imrahil expects. That should provide a chance for both Lothiriel and Eomer to show their quality.
Author's reply
Hmm, you are of course right to remember the villain's thoughts. However, he's the patient sort. Why go hunting for your prey when it will just walk into your den eventually? He's had plenty of time to get ready now...
Lia
vaske
· 3 April 2007
· Chapter 23: Fogbound
The mental picture of Eowyn throwing Wilwarin into the midden was priceless. Almost as good as Wilwarin being banished by Arwen! I can't wait to see the next meeting between Imrahil and Eomer.
I hope you get well soon, having a bad back is really horrible:(
Author's reply
Yes, I was actually tempted to write the scene, but then that would have been over the top. I'm sure Eowyn would have enjoyed it, though!
Lia
Cuthalion
· 3 April 2007
· Chapter 23: Fogbound
Now... it was somehow clear that getting Imrahil's permission would not be too easy. They will manage it anyway, I'm sure... and there's still a certain villain looming in the background, and what is he up to? --- The scene with Wilwarin was a delight, of course - banned by both, Éowyn and Arwen, and falling back into meaninglessness - hehe, well deserved. I'll try to be patient while you try to take care of your poor back!
Gute Besserung!
Cúthalion
Author's reply
Yes, Imrahil is having a bit of a rough time. It's difficult when your little girl suddenly decides to grow up! But then all their plans might still go awry anyway... At least the butterfly has been dealt with.
I'm trying not to give in to temptation and start writing again while my back is not quite well yet. But then you know all about that, don't you!
Lia
vampfan30
· 3 April 2007
· Chapter 23: Fogbound
Finally, they put that .... ***** in her place ! Glad to see it, and, as for the back problem, I totally get it. I have a messed up rotator cuff that makes computer time "fun", too. Get better soon !
Author's reply
Sorry to hear about your shoulder - my back is slowly getting better again. And I'm pleased to hear you enjoyed the chapter, I had fun writing Lady Wilwarin's good-bye.
Lia
SurgicalSteel
· 3 April 2007
· Chapter 23: Fogbound
Oh, help! I absolutely adored the way that Wilwarin's plans completely imploded on her. Absolutely perfect! What a fun chapter!
Author's reply
Hopefully she'll learn something from it - she will have lots of time to ruminate on her wrongdoings now.
Lia
Bodkin
· 3 April 2007
· Chapter 23: Fogbound
Delay??? No!!!!!!!
You need voice recognition software! Immediately.
Much as I enjoyed the Eomer / Lothiriel interaction - up to and including the sneaky kiss - and Imrahil's reluctance - which will, I think, find it hard to stand up to a determined Rohirric attack, I think I relished most of all the humiliation of the butterfly. She did, I have to say, deserve both her rejection by the Princess of Ithilien and her dismissal by the Queen of Gondor. Seeking a rich and powerful husband is understandable - but outright dishonesty is another. Boats, I fear, burned.
But I am a bit concerned about Lothiriel's safe return to the White City. I'm sure Cupid will do his best to prevent her arrival - and I'm only too glad that Imrahil's survival is guaranteed. (Although I shall be miffed if you decide to off any of Lothiriel's brothers. They have potential.)
Author's reply
If I had voice recognition software the next chapter would have consisted entirely of moans and groans ;-)
You might have noticed that I borrowed an idea from one of your earlier reviews. Wasn't it you who mentioned dropping Wilwarin in a heap of dung? For some reason the picture stuck with me. And Eowyn uttering that threat seemed to fit with my characterization of her.
Cupid is a bit like a spider. He's spun his web and now he's waiting for the unsuspecting flies to get tangled in it. But don't worry about her brothers, I like them myself!
Lia
Unheard Chime
· 3 April 2007
· Chapter 23: Fogbound
First of all, I hope your back starts to feel better soon!! I wish you luck on your recovery... don't worry about updating until you feel better!!
Next: Oh wow, the confrontation with Wilwarin was PERFECT. I was rather expecting Eomer to explode, but the underlying, tightly controlled rage was beautiful. And I hadn't thought about how Eowyn would react... I rather wished that Wilwarin had stuck around so we could have seen Eowyn through her into the midden. And Arwen's reaction was just the icing on the cake.
As for Imrahil's reaction, it was pretty much how I would have expected. At least he didn't beat Eomer to pulp; fathers can get irrational. I wonder what Lothiriel's brothers will do? Whose side will they fall down on?
Enjoyed this chapter very very much!!
Author's reply
Thanks! The back is feeling a little better every day, but I have to watch out that I don't overdo it.
I'm glad to hear you liked the way I dealt with Wilwarin. I wasn't sure if it would seem too tame, but I really couldn't envision Eomer offering her violence. And she will have a lot of time now to think on what she's done.
As for Lothiriel's brothers, they've had a thoroughly confusing time! They will probably first have to get used to the idea of not having to turn Eomer into warg bait.
Lia
ponypetter
· 1 April 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
I suspect poor Imrahil feels like he's lost complete control of the situation. At first he's worried Lothiriel will have her heart broken by naive hopes, then suddenly she seemed to regard Eomer as the scum of the earth, and he's compelled to stand behind her. Now she's swung the other way and he's faced with what looks like very inappropriate activity!
Author's reply
Yes, the last few days must seem like a roller coaster ride to Imrahil and I think he's had his fill of it (I'm feeling a bit sorry for him myself). The next chapter will show his reaction to events.
Lia
ponypetter
· 1 April 2007
· Chapter 21: The Prince and Princess of Ithilien
Oh, the insult, apologizing to Girion and not Eomer! Lothiriel's going to have a lot of explaining to do. It's great that Eomer's fully acknowledging his feelings, though of course it takes Eowyn to make him admit it out loud.
It looks like Wilwarin's plan is about to unravel!
Author's reply
I agree Lothiriel will feel very bad about her actions when she finds out! But like you said, at least one good things has come from the whole misunderstanding, Eomer acknowledging his feelings to himself. Eowyn can be pretty persistent!
Lia
Bodkin
· 30 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
Well - I'm glad Hareth judged Eomer and found him good! (There might be rather greater problems with Imrahil. Shame Eomer couldn't seize the advantage and make his wishes plain at once. Before there's even more potential for confusion!)
And Wilwarin's perfidy is discovered! And I don't think Eomer's very pleased. Except, of course, that in the joy of revelation, he and Lothiriel managed to end the evening very pleasantly.
I wish I could believe that they were about to have a joy-filled tomorrow ... But that just seems a bit too easy. And, of course, Cupid is waiting his chance ...
Author's reply
Well, I'm not sure if turning up at Imrahil's door with a dishevelled looking Lothiriel in a soaked dress would have made a very good impression. Although it's an extremely tempting scene to write! However, I have different plans for them.
Wilwarin - although like you said they forgot about her for the moment, she still has to be dealt with. By the way I borrowed an idea of yours from a long ago review.
And did I mention that with me in charge, joy-filled tomorrows have to be earned...
Lia
obsidianj
· 29 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
Uh oh, now that Lothiriel and Eomer have resolved their difficulties, I see new storm clouds on the horizon. Imrahil's opinion of Eomer is low to begin with. If he now comes to the conclusion that Eomer took advantage of his daughter and can't be serious in his promise that he wants to marry her than I see Lothiriel being whisked away to Dol Amroth and Eomer in big trouble ;-)
Author's reply
Hmm, yes you're not too far off. Getting caught sneaking back into the house, soaked to the skin, probably won't help either! Not exactly a very responsible and queenly behaviour, is it. But you'll see next week, I promise.
Lia
obsidianj
· 29 March 2007
· Chapter 21: The Prince and Princess of Ithilien
Ouch! What could have been such a nice opportunity for Eomer and Lothiriel to spend some quality time together is uncomfortably tense and awkward. I hope Eomer's little talk to Lothiriel next will clear the air and not lead to more misunderstandings.
I like your unique wedding description. I haven't read a wedding ceremony like that in fanfiction so far.
Author's reply
Yes, the weather forecast for the ride to Emyn Arnen: icy winds and subzero temperatures ;-)
Since there does not seem to be any religion as such in Middle Earth, I tried to come up with a wedding without anybody presiding - it makes more sense to me that way. And I love inventing customs and sayings for Gondor and Rohan, anyway.
Lia
Episcopal Witch
· 29 March 2007
· Chapter 21: The Prince and Princess of Ithilien
Answers coming! Whoo hoo!!!
Poor Eomer and Lothiriel, their romantic troubles overshadowing what should have been a day of pure joy! But it seems that Lothiriel’s sound instincts are at work, leading her to lean toward Eomer despite what she thinks he’s done.
I simply love the idea of Faramir and Eowyn’s wedding taking place at Emyn Arnen. I don’t think I’ve seen this in any other fanfic. It makes so much sense from every standpoint. Politically, it recognizes them in their new status as Prince and Princess of Ithilien Psychologically, it’s a fresh start just as their marriage is, without the mixed memories and emotional baggage of Meduseld and Minas Tirith. And it puts them on equal grounds right from the ceremony, instead of one of them being a fish out of water on the other’s turf.
I also like your invention of the details of the ceremony; it seems a beautiful leftover from a simpler time in Gondor’s past, with which Eowyn would be comfortable.
(Yes, I love F/E, my favorite characters and my favorite pairing in all of Tolkien - though your Eomer and Lothiriel are definitely now running second!)
Author's reply
I really like Eowyn and Faramir, too, so I enjoyed being able to include their wedding. They really deserve a fresh beginning and some happiness after the hard times of the past and losing so many family members. And like you said, Emyn Arnen seems to be the perfect place for it. As for the wedding ceremony, I just tried to imagine what would make sense in Middle Earth. Some things like sharing food and drink are pretty universal I believe. I'm pleased to hear you liked it!
And the day is not over yet, of course...
Lia
galimeril
· 27 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
Finally, I thought he would never find out about that little twit Wilwarin! This seems like a case of Pride and Prejudice, I love that movie! I can't wait to see Imrahil's reaction! Please write more soon!
Author's reply
Pride and Prejudice is actually my favourite Austen story, probably because Lizzie is quite cheeky. You'll get Imrahil's reaction in the next chapter and also Wilwarin's.
And I'm busy writing!
Lia
SurgicalSteel
· 27 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
Chiming in late - I've been following this story but seem to have been dragged away from the keyboard prior to leaving a review before. I'm very much enjoying this very different take on this romance and your remarkable young princess!
Author's reply
Good to see you managed to hang on to the keyboard this time ;-) I'm pleased to hear you're enjoying the ride and thank you for your review!
Lia
Larner
· 27 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
I can hear it now--"Yes, Ada, I was angry with King Eomer, but it was all Lady Wilwarin's fault you know. I really love him, and he just asked me to marry him....
"My shoes and dress? Well, I know it looks awful, but we--we---we-----"
At least she now knows the truth and knows he loves her as much as she loves him.
Author's reply
Just a little accident in Eowyn's fountain... ;-)
I agree explaining the whole mess to her father won't be an easy task. But she's probably to happy to care, anyway.
Lia
Carol
· 26 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
Great story!! I wonder who is going to confront Wilwarin first, Imrahil when he finds out who caused his beloved daughter so much unhappiness, Eomer who was also a victim, or Lothiriel. My bet is Lothiriel. Eomer might be to angry to confront Wilwarin first, despite his threat he would never injure a woman. Imrahil might be torn between who he wants to be angry with Wilwarin or Eomer. Lothiriel would not stop to think first. Wilwarin is going to find herself in deep trouble no matter who confronts her though.
Author's reply
Well, I'm afraid you're off with your guess. Lothiriel has too many other problems just now to concern herself with confronting Wilwarin. But you will see in the next chapter who this task will fall to.
But I agree that Eomer would not injure a woman, despite what he might say about turning her into warg bait, so it's going to end absolutely unbloody. Thanks for your review!
Lia
vaske
· 26 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
I just started reading this story this morning and couldn't stop clicking the 'next' button. I was so excited by the time Eomer proposed, but I have a feeling it's going to take a while to convince Imrahil...
Author's reply
You were lucky then, to escape that last cliffhanger! But never fear, there will be more of them ahead... And your feeling is of course right, for I don't think Lothiriel's behaviour over the last few days will make him think she's ready to become Queen of Rohan.
Lia
Unheard Chime
· 26 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
Oooooh you have no idea how happy you've made me!!
First of all, thank you thank you thank you for being a writer who updates reliably and quickly. And also, thank you for not dragging the Eomer/Lothiriel/Wilwarin drama on and on for fifteen chapters, as some authors might be tempted to do!
I was so happy when the truth finally got out there in the open; I was absolutely terrified that someone would come interrupt them in the middle of their conversation. I wonder what they're going to do about Wilwarin... disgrace her in front of the entire court, or let her back out quietly?
Eagerly awaiting the next chapter,
UC
Author's reply
It's nice to be appreciated! I do try to update regularly because I think the story makes much more sense this way, rather than read over a period of a year or longer. But it takes up a lot of my free time!
And yes, they finally got the chance to sort out their misunderstanding. I thought dragging it out even longer would have been unrealistic. All they needed really was some time together for the truth to come out.
As for Lady Wilwarin, you'll see in the next chapter what's in store for her.
Lia
Cuthalion
· 26 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
“Because you are engaged to marry Wilwarin,” she whispered, the words like shards of broken glass in her mouth.
...which exactly was the moment when I collapsed over my keyboard, nearly sobbing with hysterical relief. Fi-nal-ly.
Deep within her, at the very bottom of her soul, something woke. It stirred and lifted its head, slowly stretching curled-up wings, and then with a mighty leap took off into the air. The dragon’s deafening roar filled her ears, its fire flooded her veins, running like a wildfire through her, burning away all rational thought. Hunger. Need. Desire. She pressed her body against Éomer and buried her hands in his hair, roughly pulling his head down, demanding more. For a heartbeat he froze, then his arms clamped around her with the strength of a battle-hardened warrior, one hand holding the nape of her neck like a vice. His kiss neither gentle nor restrained, but scalding hot and insistent. The dragon within her rejoiced, matching him passion for passion, and she let herself slip into a spinning vortex of colour, a vibrant swirling of red and gold.
Ohhhh. Wonderful. Deliciously hot and sensual. Brilliant description, my dear.
Can't wait to read more!
Author's reply
Like I said in my last reply, I couldn't resist adding a few more misunderstandings, but they did sort things out in the end. Isn't it a good thing Eowyn's garden is so neglected that it abounds with fireflies?
And I've been trying to include pictures of light and darkness and of fire throughout the story, so the dragon seemed to fit. Thank you for your praise!
Lia
daw the minstrel
· 26 March 2007
· Chapter 22: Fireflies
Oh my. That was such a satisfying chapter. Thank Eru they spoke truth to one another. The passage that starts
Deep within her, at the very bottom of her soul, something woke
is extremely well written. Very powerful.
Imrahil may doubt his daughter will make a good queen of Rohan but he's going to have to stop seeing Lothiriel as incompetent and accept it. And I still fervently hope something horrible and public happens to Wilwarin.
Author's reply
Thank you! Yes, I think the two deserve a little bit of happiness after all the trouble I've put them through! Especially as you never know what the future will bring...
Imrahil might still take a bit of convincing, though. I don't think that Lothiriel's behaviour the last few days has pleased him very much.
Lia
Paladin1420
· 24 March 2007
· Chapter 21: The Prince and Princess of Ithilien
Just want to say that I have been following this from the beginning and am enjoying it very much. Poor Eomer. It must be tough to be a King and not be able to figure out whats going on.
Thanks for a great story.
Author's reply
It's probably worse when you're a king, because all your mistakes and misunderstanding are so embarrassingly public. At least if Lothiriel is involved... And thank you for reviewing!
Lia
AnthroSpaz
· 22 March 2007
· Chapter 21: The Prince and Princess of Ithilien
This is absolutely my favorite story...I get so excited to see an update! Though I hate to join the angry mob, I hope Eomer makes mince meat out of Wilwarin too. Thanks so much for such a great story!
Author's reply
Well, I can't really see Eomer offering violence to a woman, much as he might be tempted to, so Wilwarin will emerge in one piece at the end of the story. And thank you for your review, I'm pleased to hear you like my story!
Lia
daw the minstrel
· 22 March 2007
· Chapter 21: The Prince and Princess of Ithilien
Oh yay yay yay! He's going to talk to her and Annarima did the right thing. I hope Wilwarin is kicked down the stairs.
Author's reply
Poor Wilwarin, all my readers want to make mince meat out of her. She will leave the stage soon, but completely unbloody. More next week!
Lia
vampfan30
· 21 March 2007
· Chapter 21: The Prince and Princess of Ithilien
it's been a while since I reviewed, but, I am still with you ! I think Annarima is going to help save this mess, or, so it appears.... good that someone is...... I just like Lothiriel & Eomer too much to see them at odds.......
Author's reply
Nice to hear from you again! I of course rather enjoy seeing Eomer and Lothiriel at odds, but I do promise a happy end for them...eventually.
Lia