Sailing Away Discussion Thread

[piosenniel]

Firefoot invites you to play in her game:

Sailing Away

Historical Background: The story takes place in the spring preceding the War of the Ring. The Bounders of the Shire have been very busy trying to keep ruffians out of the boundaries of the Shire. Strange rumors are spreading about dark things in the east.

[piosenniel]

Basic Storyline: Several young Brandybucks, inspired by tales from their elders, decide to build a raft and sail the Brandywine. Their voyage takes a turn for the worse, when their craft is swept away on the river’s current and they capsize near Sarn Ford, well beyond the bounds of the Shire. The river journey is just the first part of their adventure. Accompany them as they struggle to return to the Shire through strange and unfamiliar lands inhabited by the Big Folk.

[piosenniel]

The purpose of the story is to: Sail down the Brandywine, return to Buckland.

This means we will know the story is over when: The young hobbits return safely to Buckland

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Starting Location: Buckland

Likely destination: Buckland

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Here is a MAP (http://perso.wanadoo.fr/hugo1900/MAP-OF-MIDDLE-EARTH-VERSION-7.html) for your use.

[piosenniel]

Timeframes:

This game takes place in the 3rd Age at around year 3018 (spring).

The storyline itself or plot covers two and a half weeks.

This game requires a time commitment of 11 weeks from me, the game owner and from the major players.

[piosenniel]

Firefoot’s Character

NAME: Sondo Brandybuck

AGE: 14

RACE: Hobbit

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: Like all hobbits, Sondo has exceptional aim throwing stones. His only other weapon is a belt knife confiscated from Brandy Hall. It is about eight inches long. Sondo thinks this to be a useful weapon for adventuring, but in truth he would be doing well if he doesn’t hurt himself using it.

APPEARANCE: Sondo is rather small, even for a hobbit. He is only 2'8", and light in build. His sandy brown hair is curly and usually unkempt. His eyes are dark brown, and don’t miss very much. His face is lively and expressive, and he is usually seen with a smile on his face.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Sondo sees everything as an adventure. He loves to hear tales of heroes that go off on adventures. As much as he likes the bustle of living in Brandy Hall, he also finds it rather confining. He dreamed of someday having his own adventure, and now that he has made up his mind to do so he has gone about preparing for it with fervor. Sondo fears very little and does not back down from challenges. Optimism and enthusiasm are two characteristics he by no means lacks.

Sondo has always been the leader of his group of friends, mostly other young hobbits also living in Brandy Hall, and with good reason. He has always been the one to come up with ideas for mischief and the ways to carry them out. He is quite clever, but he does not always use this intelligence for worthwhile causes (for example, stealing mushrooms). Despite his small stature, he has a presence about him that make people notice him and listen. He learned to read and write, but neither of these things interested him very much.

Sondo is also a touch arrogant, and usually thinks himself to be right. Without intending to, he can be callous and seem unfeeling. He is a very fun person to have as a friend, but a terrible person to have as an adversary.

HISTORY: Sondo has two older sisters (twins), two older brothers, and a younger sister. He is on fairly good terms with all of his siblings, but not particularly close to any of them. He has lived in Brandy Hall all of his life, though his mother is a Took and he has travelled to visit his Tookish relations many times. He does not fully understand hardship, loss, or death, because he has not had much if any experience in these things.

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Firefoot’s post FIRST FOR GAME

Sondo hurriedly shoveled down his breakfast. He was eating by himself this fine May morning, a rather unusual occurrence. His friends, scattered across the large dining hall, were likewise alone; they had all agreed it would be best if they were not seen leaving Brandy Hall together so as not to arouse suspicion. For this was the day that his adventure was to start! Sondo had been awaiting this day for some time, ever since he had decided on his newest and grandest exploit yet: to sail down the Brandywine and explore new lands and come back, maybe even with treasure like old Mad Baggins had.

Upon finishing his breakfast, Sondo stood to take his plate back to the kitchen. Such was his good mood that Sondo bid the cook a good day as he delivered his dish. She recognized him; Sondo had caused trouble more than once in her kitchen.

“Be off with you!” said the cook, smiling and shaking her long spoon at him. “And if you are to cause any trouble this day, make sure that it is not in my kitchen!” Sondo laughed and promised that he wouldn’t, for once meaning every word. As he threaded his way back through the long dining tables, he passed a few of his friends and exchanged discreet conspiratorial glances. Those who knew Sondo well would recognize the look on his face as the one he wore when he was up to something.

The hallways were fairly busy, but Sondo passed through them unnoticed - it was the start of a busy day and no one paid much attention to a young hobbit lad. He slipped out one of the side doors while no one was watching. It was the perfect day to start an adventure: the sky was deep blue and a light breezed caressed his face, carrying with it the sweet fragrance of spring. He struck up a fair pace and whistled as he walked, taking the road south past the turn to Bucklebury Ferry.

As he walked, Sondo allowed himself to review the past few weeks with great satisfaction at what had been accomplished. There had been much to do and plan before he could leave. He had first needed to convince his friends what a wonderful idea it was. This had perhaps been the easiest part, because Sondo could make even the most fool-hardy plan sound like a brilliant idea to his group of friends, and they had taken to the idea almost immediately anyhow. He could not even begin to count the near-misses and scrapes he had gotten them into, but still they listened to him, for often as not his ideas worked out excellently and they had a fun time carrying them out.

The next step had been to build a raft and secure supplies. After all, one could not have an adventure without proper supplies. Slowly, secretly, they had confiscated tools and food from the immeasurable resources of Brandy Hall. Someone had found an oilcloth to keep the needed supplies safe from water, because whatever they found had to be stored in their secret stash near the bank of the Brandywine. This was the same cove where they had kept the unfinished raft. Sondo had found himself a hunting knife, a weapon he deemed fitting for adventures. It was in his pocket now - he could not have worn it outwardly inside Brandy Hall because it would have been noticed for sure. The food, enough for several days, had been stolen from the kitchen over the course of the past week. Their sailing vessel was of simple design: logs roped together and caulked with tar, and a makeshift mast with a sheet tied to it for a sail. The hobbits had only finished and tested their raft yesterday, and found with great jubilation that it floated easily, even with all of their weight on top of it. Then they had secured their supplies to the raft and covered those with the oilcloth, ready for sailing.

It was not long before Sondo came to the little creek that crossed the road. The road was clear, so Sondo turned to follow the stream to the Brandywine. The land here between the road and the river was covered by a sparse forest, so the Brandywine did not come into vision until he was nearly upon it. The surface of the muddy river appeared to flow lazily, but Sondo knew that the current was much swifter than it looked. He turned left to reach the storage location of the raft. The place was a little inlet, invisible from every angle except the north, and only then at a close range.

Sondo was the first to arrive, and he was relieved to find everything exactly as it had been left. He resisted the urge to look and make sure the oilcloth was secured correctly. It had been checked several times already and the supplies had been arranged specifically so that the things that would be needed first were on top. There was no need to rearrange. Having nothing else to do, Sondo sat down on the raft with his back to the mast and waited for his companions to show up, dreaming of the adventures he would have, each one being more fantastical than the last.

[piosenniel]

Dedicated character --- Nurumaiel's character

NAME: Falco Brandybuck

AGE: 13

RACE: Hobbit

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: Falco has no 'sharp' weapon, for his mother is somewhat protective of him. Yet he carries with him a simply-fashioned cudgel that he can wield with considerable force.

APPEARANCE: Falco's hair is brown, with a bit of a touch of auburn in it, and slightly wave, and his eyes are also brown. His cheeks are rosy from constant exercise, and sprinkled with just a few freckles. A very slight tilt-up of his nose indicates some arrogance. He's of average height and weight, but despite his not over-impressive stature, he carries extra strength than normal.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Falco is a generally cheerful lad, who amuses himself in typical boy's games. He enjoys the company of all his friends and companions, and has deep admiration and loyalty to anyone he looks upon as worthy. He could not be said to be an unnaturally adventurous boy, but he has a boy's natural inclinations towards fun and excitement. He's a very bold lad not easily intimidated, and is not opposed to throwing himself recklessly into dangerous situations. He has a deep fondness for any who are close to him, yet he hides it with a show of gruffness and an attitude of non-caring. Falco has arrogance of a certain kind. He will submit himself to another's will if he shares the same opinion as that one, but if the views differ Falco will immediately draw back and become assertive, and try to take the position as leader. Coupled with this is a stubborness, and so even if he realizes that the other is right he will still hold to his own ideas, and arrogantly tell others that he is right, despite his own sense that he is not. He also has an annoying habit of not paying close attention to what people are saying, so more than not he is left in a sort of ignorance of what is going on.

HISTORY: Falco was born to Merimas and Ruby (Gamwich) Brandybuck, and was raised in Brandy Hall. His father worked on the other side of the river, so most days he spent with his mother (who he loved very much, but didn't show it), his older brother (who he admired with a fierce admiration), and his little sister (who he thought very annoying, but also worthy of secret love). When he was younger he was very clumsy and was forever knocking vases off the shelves and running into walls, and tripping over his own feet and falling on his face, so his older brother gave him the nickname of 'Fally,' pronounced as if saying 'fall.'

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Nurumaiel’s post

Falco Brandybuck sat up in the apple tree, picking the fruit and studying them carefully, and then choosing which he would eat and which he would cast aside as no good. Every now and again he would look out of the corner of his eye towards Brandy Hall, where his family was, more than likely, just finishing breakfast. He had had some difficulty in deciding which he preferred more: to go eat the fine breakfast with his family, or to climb the tree and sit nearer the sky, and dine upon his desserts at once. He knew well he would be scolded for taking his dessert before he had eaten a single meal, but he knew also that it would not take the taste of the apples from his mouth. He didn't know, or rather he had forgotten, that his mother was going to make apple pies that day. Having forgotten (for he had not paid her close attention when she was speaking), it never occurred to him that he would be punished in the manner of being denied his fair share of pie.

He was ignorant, and he was happy. The apples tasted fine, the clear spring breeze rustled through the leaves and through his hair, and he was at peace.

A little pattering of feet on the grass below called his attention, and he saw a head of waving brown hair below him. It was his sister. He choked back a laugh of excitement, for he was hiding and she was searching for him. He put a half-eaten apple into his pocket, in case she should find him, for he did not want to be caught in his guilty act, and he pressed himself against the tree trunk. She looked here and there with a perturbed frown on her face, pattered a little way further, and then returned, her hands on her hips and her head cocked angrily to one side. She looked here and there once again, and then she rolled her eyes upwards in a sigh of annoyance. She caught sight of his blue shirt, and was immediately at the foot of the tree, calling up to him.

"Falco, Mamma 'as been looking for you everywhere and she's very angry. Why do you run 'way from breakfast?" And then her big eyes widened and she said, "Were you eating apples up there?"

"Yes," said Falco, and brought himself to the ground. "But don't tell Mamma, Rosa, and I'll give you an apple too."

"Oh no, naughty boy," she said, shaking her finger (and looking just like her mother). "You are very naughty to be stealing those apples, and I won't 'elp you."

"Stealing?" said Falco indignantly. "Why, I was just eating them because I was hungry!"

"You should 'ave et your breakfast, naughty boy."

"Please don't tell Mamma, Rosa," said Falco, his voice pleading and his hands catching her own.

She pulled away from him and fixed her determined eyes on the Hall, but she did not move. Rather, she cast him a keen sideways glance and said, "Will you give me your piece of apple pie if I don't?"

"Apple pie?" said Falco, very stupidly.

"Yes," said Rosa. "Mamma is making apple pie and if you don't give me yours I will tell 'er that you et those apples!"

He had forgotten about the pie. Ah, well. Either way he would lose his share. It was better to lose them to Rosa and escape a scolding. He nodded. "You can have the pie, Rosa, but don't tell Mamma."

"Then I won't," she said.

"I'm sure Sondo and the other boys were looking for me?" he said, and he presented it as a question.

"No, no," she said. "But soon everyone will be looking for Sondo and the other boys."

"What do you mean?" said Falco, quite as stupidly as before.

"I saw 'im leave very quietly, and he ran 'cross the grass towards the river. I wonder if 'e's running 'way?"

Falco turned pale. How could he have forgotten? He recalled, vaguely, that Sondo had been saying something about an adventure, and something about the river, and the raft. Again he questioned himself: how could he have forgotten?

"Rosa, I have to go now," he said. "Don't tell anyone that you saw Sondo leave, or that you saw anyone leave, or that you saw me leave."

"What will you give me if I don't?"

"My piece of apple pie."

"You already gave that to me."

"Then you can tell Mamma about the apples." It didn't matter if she knew. He wouldn't be about to be scolded. "Tell Mamma about the apples, and I'll give you my pie for not telling about us going."

"Very well," she said, "but don't you be running 'way too."

"Of course not, Rosa," he murmured, and giving her a little pat on the cheek he turned towards the river and ran with all speed he could muster.

[piosenniel]

CHARACTERS NEEDED:

5 Hobbits - male: They should be young Brandybucks (13-15 years old) and should live either in Brandy Hall or very nearby.

1. Brandybuck male (13-15 y/o) 2. Brandybuck male (13-15 y/o) 3. Brandybuck male (13-15 y/o) 4. Brandybuck male (13-15 y/o) 5. Brandybuck male (13-15 y/o)



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Character types which would not belong: Anything other than character types listed above.

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[piosenniel]

Prospective Game Players:

Please use this form for creating your character to post on the discussion thread.

1.) It is a requirement that all potential game players in the Shire will have posted in The Green Dragon Inn or have played to completion an RPG on the Barrow Downs.

2.) Those who have not played before in a Shire RPG will be given preference. Final preference, though, will be at the discretion of the Game Owner.
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Character Description Form:

1.) Have you ever played in an RPG at the Barrow Downs? – YES/NO - Which one?

2.) How many RPG’s on the Barrow Downs are you currently involved in?

List them, please:

Please note you may play in only 2 (TWO) Shire games at one time. Exceptions to this may be made for this on a case by case basis by the Shire Moderators. (The Green Dragon Inn DOES NOT count as a game for this.)


3.) Have you posted in The Green Dragon Inn – YES/NO

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For your character please include:

NAME:

AGE:

RACE: Hobbit

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS/EQUIPMENT (No magical, super-hero, mithril weapons. Just good solid Middle-earth weapons and armor only that is appropriate to the race of the character and the time period.): NOTE: Hobbits do not have swords. Slings for stone throwing, small knives, a stout stick, a very small bow for hunting small game, rope, little snares for game.

APPEARANCE:

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: (No half-Elven characters. No mixed-type characters. No super-heroes. No assassins. No one all powerful, martial arts proficient, or having any magical traits. Just regular characters with normal abilities for their races only):

HISTORY:

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First post for your character: (required to be submitted with Character Bio)

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First posts should include “escaping” unnoticed and coming to meet Sondo by the raft

~*~

[piosenniel]

** Happy New Year to All! **

The Discussion thread is now open to take on players.

Please read the proposal carefully and submit your Character Bio with a First Post for the game.

~*~ Piosenniel, Game Moderator

[Firefoot]

Happy New Year, everybody, and hi! Just checking in. I have high hopes for this game and I think there will be some interesting characters and players. I'm really looking forward to this. :)

-Firefoot, Game Owner

[Boromir88]

1.) Have you ever played in an RPG at the Barrow Downs? – YES/NO - Which one?
Yes, Ungoliant's Children.

2.) How many RPG’s on the Barrow Downs are you currently involved in? One

List them, please: Siege of Gundabad

Please note you may play in only 2 (TWO) Shire games at one time. Exceptions to this may be made for this on a case by case basis by the Shire Moderators. (The Green Dragon Inn DOES NOT count as a game for this.)


3.) Have you posted in The Green Dragon Inn – Yes.

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NAME: Rorinac Brandybuck (Rory to his friends)

AGE: 15

RACE: Hobbit

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS/EQUIPMENT: A Short blade. It isn't very sharp, more suited for giving you marks and bruises then cutting through armor. Always carries a pouch full of sharp throwing stones.

APPEARANCE: Just over 3 feet tall, with slightly curled brown mop. Blue eyes and is thin compared to hobbit standards.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES:
You never see Rory with a frown on his face. He's always getting himself into trouble, his friends think he's clever and cheerful, but his parents only see him as a mischievous prankster. Anything his friend Sondo suggests, Rory is the first to pitch in, always anxious to find adventure (as well as trouble). Rory doesn't have a sharp understanding of the ideas Sondo conjures up, he just joins in because he thinks it sounds fun. Rory often gets himself into problems he can't handle yet, because he isn't at that age, as hobbits would say, and looks for others to get him out of sticky predicaments he has gotten in to.

HISTORY:
Rorinac Brandybuck, son of Filiburt and Daisy. He has an older sister Mirabella (Age 17) that is always snooping to try to get him into trouble. Also two younger brothers Rufus (8) and Madoc (7), who look up to Rory, and are constantly trying to join him and his friends. Rory is always finding himself into trouble, and is always forbidden to hang out with his friends. His mother is constantly telling him they are a bad influence, and she doesn't want to see him around them anymore. However, Rory is always finding new ways to slip out, and get himself into deeper trouble.

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Boromir88's post

This morning Rory was forced to eat with his parents, and siblings, because of the last incident. Rory convinced his youngest brother, Madoc, that Mirabella had taken his mushrooms they got from Old Maggot. Madoc ended up throwing his tea on his sister's dress. Like always Rory's parents found out he was behind it, and forced him to wash the dishes after every meal, and eat next to them, away from his siblings.

Rory sat eating next to his mother, who kept shooting glances at him. He wondered how he was going to be able to escape this time, his mom barely kept her eyes off him. Rory knew he had to escape, and sat contemplating how to do so. He already spotted Sondo had left, so he figured he better get out soon.

They already had food stocked by the river, but he managed to slip in some extra bread and berries into his pouch. Mirabella began to complain that she wanted some more tea. "I'm thirsty mama" she whined.

"Honey," Daisy said turning to her husband, Filiburt. "Could you get the kids some more drinks."

Rory perked up, this could be his chance he thought, "I'll do it." His mom looked at him suspiciously, but thought with all the trouble Rory was in, he should do it. "Ok, just don't you go causing any trouble for the cook. She fixes you these meals, you should be more grateful."

"Don't worry mama," he tried not to smirk, or appear he was up to something. He ran up to the cook and kindly asked, "May I get some more tea m'am?"

"Why of course you can, since you asked so nicely. I can't stand hobbits with no manners." She gave Rory a tray, with 6 cups filled with fresh, hot tea.

"Thank you m'am" he replied.

"Why anything for a generous little hobbit like yourself." she smiled.

Rory began walking back towards the table he was eating at, and figured it was now or never. Suddenly, he tripped over his feet and fell flat on his face, as the tray and tea cups went shattering on the floor. Every person dining in the hall turned their eyes on Rory, and the cook began to get red faced, she couldn't stand having to replace her precious china. Rufus and Madoc started cracking up laughing, acting out the scene, and Mirabella began to smirk realizing her brother was about to get it again.

Rory tried his best to keep a straight face, "Gee, I'm sorry m'am. This is all my fault, I'll go get a broom and sweep up this mess. I'm sorry, I'm just so clumsy sometimes." Rory let out a fake frown.

The cook's face which was flooded with red subsided back to normal color, "Oh it's ok, that sort of thing happens a lot around here. You're a nice boy. Yes, go get the broom, and sweep this up."

Rory spotted his parents rushing up to where he tripped. They had an expression of worry, and anger in their faces. Definitely worried they wouldn't have to compensate the cook, and angry at their son.

"Oh, I hope he hasn't caused you any trouble." Daisy pleaded with the cook. "Forgive him, he's constantly causing trouble." She let out a sharp glance at Rory. Rory bowed his head, knowing he was going to get in trouble, and probably be in more trouble when his parents found out what he was going to do.

"Not a bit," the cook responded, "your son was very kind, he even offered to clean this up. Don't worry about it." She then looked at Rory, "Just go get the broom, I'll sweep this up."

Mirabella had joined behind her parents, hoping to eavesdrop on the conversation. Daisy and Filiburt kept saying how sorry they were, and hope that Rory didn't cause her any problems. The cook kept reassuring them everything was ok.

Rory sprinted off, recognizing now was his chance. With his brothers occupied, fighting with eachother, and his parents and tattle-tale sister up with the cook. He bolted out of the door as fast as his feet could carry them, without stopping until he couldn't see the hall anymore. Oh boy, I'm going to get it when I get back, he thought. He quickly brightened, when he heard a faint chatter up towards the river, some of the hobbits must have already appeared. He figured they were waiting on him. He got to the hiding spot, Sondo and the other hobbits signalled him over, they were still waiting on a few others who said they would come. Atleast he got away, but he wondered if his parents knew he was gone yet, probably, it was a good ten minutes since he left the hall. He couldn't turn back now though, he knew he was already in deep trouble, might as well make the best of his opportunity.

[Firefoot]

Looks pretty good, Boromir88 - Rory will be a good addition. Welcome aboard! (No pun intended :p ;) )

[piosenniel]

If you see an "edited by piosenniel" on your submission, it's just me, setting up your First Post for easy transfer to the game thread.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot -

This sounds like fun! Here is my proposed profile and first post...

Character Description Form:

1.) Have you ever played in an RPG at the Barrow Downs? – YES/NO - Which one? Yes. Among the games I have played in are Voyage of the Lonely Star, Shadow of the Star, Hunt for the Palantiri, Farmer in the Dale, Breelanders All!, A Land to Call their Own, Corsairs and Corsets, Flight from Rohan, Hunt for the Dragon, etc.

2.) How many RPG’s on the Barrow Downs are you currently involved in? One

List them, please: Here There be Dragons

Please note you may play in only 2 (TWO) Shire games at one time. Exceptions to this may be made for this on a case by case basis by the Shire Moderators. (The Green Dragon Inn DOES NOT count as a game for this.)


3.) Have you posted in The Green Dragon Inn – YES/NO Yes.

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For your character please include:

NAME: Bingo Brandybuck

AGE: 15

RACE: Hobbit

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS/EQUIPMENT: One of his uncles taught Bingo to hunt conies and other small game with a Hobbit-sized bow, and he is bringing that along. Since Bingo is the sort of lad who thinks ahead and anticipates the worst, he made sure to take a rope, a blanket, and even a spare change of clothing inside a satchel. His pockets are overflowing with treasures including three copper pennies, a line and hook for fishing, and several flints that an older cousin had told him were useful for starting a fire.

Despite his resourcefulness, he has absolutely no experience in fighting. His natural inclination is to give in or hide when faced with any lad who wants to pick a fight.

APPEARANCE: Bingo has a mop of curly brown hair and large brown eyes that make him appear unusually pensive for a young Hobbit. He looks more Harfoot than Fallohide with a stocky build and nut-brown skin. He has a definite weakness for sweets and pastries, and any dish made with mushrooms, which may partially account for his stockiness.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Bingo’s personal situation is more fluid than the other lads in this story. Bingo’s parents died seven years ago. (See “History” below.) He has one brother, two years his junior. He and his brother are very close.

Despite some differences of opinion that had once marred relations between his father and the Master of Brandy Hall, Bingo’s kin thought it best to provide him a home after his parents’ death. The brothers have been passed between various aunts, uncles, and elder cousins over the past seven years. These well-meaning kin are concerned that the lads have enough to eat and a decent place to live, but they do not shower them with personal affection or even punish them for minor misdeeds. Since there is no one person responsible for their upbringing, Bingo and his brother often “fall through the cracks”, happily going their own way in the wild maze of tunnels that make up Brandy Hall.

Because he’s had to adapt to varying circumstances, Bingo is more independent than most lads his age: new things are less likely to unnerve him (with the exception of those situations where fighting is involved). He has always made his own decisions about many things. Bingo has gotten into a scrape or two involving a platter of mushroom pasties left unguarded in the kitchen, but he is generally considered a responsible young Hobbit. One of the things that most concerns him is to be a good older brother.

Bingo’s special love is the Baranduin where he spends endless hours swimming, fishing, and floating toy boats downstream. One time, his uncle allowed him to row out with a boat and fish. He has never sailed or been on a raft.

HISTORY: Bingo and his brother are the sons of Dinodas Brandybuck and his wife Adelaide Goodchild. The Red Book of Westmarch includes the name ‘Dinodas’ as the younger brother of Primula in the Brandybuck geneology. However, there is no mention of a marriage or subsequent offspring, or even of the untimely death of Dinodas and his wife. The latter occurred in 1405 when ruffians assaulted the couple on a journey back to Bree where they planned to attend the handfasting of one of Adelaide’s many cousins.

A tangled tale lies behind this conspicuous omission. When approaching seventy years, Dinodas did a most unusual thing: he travelled to Bree and returned with a young wife. Saradoc, master of Buckland, was not happy about this wholly unexpected match. The fact that Adelaide was a Harfoot of humble origins from so far away did not earn his approval. Nor was Saradoc pleased that the normally sensible Dinodas had married a girl some thirty years his junior. The Brandybuck kin grudgingly accepted the marriage (which appeared to be a happy one), but Saradoc was careful to omit the name of the bride and her offspring from the official record in the Red Book and other written genealogies.

While Bingo was not yet fully aware of this tangled heritage, he could sense that his elders did not wholly approve of him. This history only reinforced his natural tendency to lay low and avoid trouble at all costs. Seeing that such bad things happened to people when they went on trips, he was also a natural stay-at-home. He loved the river and the forest that lay at his doorstep and saw little reason to go anywhere else. It was only his desire to be accepted by the other lads, to be included in their schemes, that had led him to agree to this escapade.



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First post for your character: (required to be submitted with Character Bio)

~*~

First posts should include “escaping” unnoticed and coming to meet Sondo by the raft

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Child of the 7th Age's post

Bingo fidgeted impatiently as he shoved the last morsel of breakfast into his mouth. Although the lad normally returned for seconds and thirds, he did not intend to linger over his platter this morning. Bingo was almost too excited to speak. He had finally been invited by young Sondo to share in a grand adventure. Bingo really didn’t care where the lads were going or what they were doing. He had paid little attention to all the details. The important thing was that he was not being left out. The young Hobbit had risen early, packed his little satchel, and made sure that his bow and quiver of arrows stood nearby. Then he had done the same for his brother.

Bingo watched as his Aunt Hilda bustled back and forth between the kitchen and the table, carrying platters of hot cakes to be shared by her three offspring who were hungry young tweeners. Bingo reflected that it was as good a time as any for he and his brother to make their escape…..

“Aunt Hilda, I hope you won’t mind…. Just last night Cousin Melilot talked to me and suggested we stay with her a bit.”

Aunt Hilda looked back with a question on her face. “But I thought she and her husband were just getting settled into that small burrow, the one down by the river?”

“Yes,” continued Bingo, thinking as quickly as he could. “They need two young lads to help them unpack the furniture and parcels, and get things in order. Please, Aunt Hilda, we can help her.”

The night before, Hilda had been thinking how nice it would be if her widowed mother could pay a visit from the Southfarthing. She did not want to toss Bingo and his brother out the door, but they were staying in her only guest room. Hilda had considered asking them to sleep in the pantry, but this new suggestion seemed to fit in perfectly with what she had been considering. She looked at the two youngsters and smiled, “Yes, I suppose a visit to Cousin Melilot might be a good idea, especially if you two can be of help to her.”

“We’ll go this morning,” Bingo added. “As soon as we’ve helped you clean up.”

Within the space of an hour, Bingo and his brother were headed out the door of Brandy Hall, lugging their belongings with them, along with a generous wrapped luncheon packet that Aunt Hilda had provided. They quickly reached the large oak that marked the path where Cousin Melilot’s new smial stood. “Down there,” urged Bingo to his brother. “Go on. Just tell Cousin that I’m staying at Brandy Hall for a few more days to help Aunt Hilda arrange her library. I’ll come later.”

“But Aunt Hilda doesn’t have a library! And what if our kin start asking questions?” his brother objected. “Anyways,” he added more gently, “I don’t want you to leave me. Why can’t I come with you?”

“No, not this time. You weren’t asked. And for once I want to do something with Sondo. Anyways, no one will ask questions. They’ll just be glad we’ve gone somewhere else for a while. I’ll be back in a day or two. I promise. Don’t worry!”

His younger brother sighed, and reluctantly turned down the pathway that led to Cousin Melitot’s burrow. Feeling free and happy, Bingo raced down the other path that led towards the River. Ahead of him, he could see the raft bobbing in the water, and one or two Hobbit lads gathering their things together on the shore.

[Firefoot]

Very nice, Child! Bingo sounds like an interesting character. I'll look forward to RP'ing with you. :)

[Boromir88]

Thanks for the acceptance Firefoot, I look forward to roleplaying with you again. As well as roleplaying with Child and Nurumaiel for the first time. :)

[Kitanna]

I'd like to take a stab at this RPG.

~*~*~

1.) Have you ever played in an RPG at the Barrow Downs? – yes - Which one? Hunt for the Palantíri
2.) How many RPG’s on the Barrow Downs are you currently involved in? None
3.) Have you posted in The Green Dragon Inn – yes

~*~*~

NAME: Marroc Brandybuck

AGE: 13

RACE: Hobbit

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS/EQUIPMENT: Marroc doesn't really carry weapons around with him. Though he has been known from time to time to carry stones in his pockets for his slingshot. He usually carries a walking stick for trekking across open fields or fighting off his older brothers.

APPEARANCE: Marroc is considered quite tall for his age and is very plumb. He has light brown hair that in always falling in his green eyes.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: He is a kind and loving Hobit lad. He is always laughing and making those around him laugh. His best strength is his quick thinking. He's been able to get himself out of many jams because of how quickly he thinks on his feet. His biggest weakness is he is always trying to prove himself to his older brothers.

HISTORY: Marroc is the youngest child of Mongo and Ruby Brandybuck. He has five older sisters and three older brothers. He was born to be the trouble maker of the family. He has, in the past, wandered off in the early morning and not returned until long after supper. His father tries to keep him busy by having him help bring in the crops or sometimes help his mother with the meals. Still Marroc can be an extremely clumsy lad and finds a way to make a mess of almost every situation. Still his parents cherish him as the baby of the family and are forever trying to turn him down a less worrisome path for life.

Marroc was invited by Sondo to join their little adventure and at first he was a little nervous. He had never been asked to join anything like this at first. The more Sondo explained the plan to him the more it appealed to young Marroc. The only member of the raft party Marroc really knows and is friendly with is Sondo and he thinks he's going to make a fine leader on their adventure.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kitanna's post

Marroc shoved a last piece of bacon into his mouth, hoping now to get away to join Sondo. Marroc pushed back from the table and headed for the door. "Where do you think you're going?" His mother said, pulling him back into his chair.

"Out to help Father."

"Not without more than a few pieces of bacon you're not." Ruby shoveled more bacon and some eggs and bread onto Marroc's plate. "You'll need your strength to go out with your father and brothers today."

Marroc dug into his food, barely taking anytime to chew it. "You're going to be sick." His oldest sister Daisy said. "No one will get any work done today if you get sick and they have to carry you back."

Marroc tried to say something with a chunk of bread in his mouth. "Daisy's right, take your time."

The Hobbit lad mumbled and paced himself. But the entire time his tapped his foot nervously on the floor. He had to get away. He had to go join up with Sondo.

Finally he cleared his plate of all traces of food. "May I go now? Please?"

Ruby looked over him and smiled warmly. "I suppose so, but stay out of trouble. There's work to be done and there's no time for your foolishness."

Marroc jumped out of his chair and ran outside. He did a quick check to make sure no one was watching and he headed away from the field. On his way to meet Sondo and the others Marroc stopped off at a hollowed out tree trunk. Inside he had hidden his knapsack with his slingshot and plenty of stones, a few apples, and water. He grabbed his walking stick as well and headed off.

[Encaitare]

Note to Firefoot: Child and I have been conversing via PMs about the possibility of her character's younger brother, mentioned in her post, deciding he wants to come along and showing up just before the friends leave. I'm posting a bio for this character to go along with this idea -- but it's your call whether this is okay.


Character Description Form:

1.) Have you ever played in an RPG at the Barrow Downs? – No.

2.) How many RPG’s on the Barrow Downs are you currently involved in? - None.

3.) Have you posted in The Green Dragon Inn – Yes.

_______________________________________


For your character please include:

NAME: Reginand (Reggie for short)

AGE: 13

RACE: Hobbit

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS/EQUIPMENT: Like his brother, Reginand is not much of a fighter. He does carry a small sling and several well-chosen stones for it, but the only thing he has ever hit with them are targets painted on trees. He also has a little pocket-knife which he generally uses to peel apples, although he's dabbled in throwing it a bit (much to the annoyance of the neighbors). It could come in handy, though, he always thinks, and likes to show off with it to his friends. He happens to have a bit of rope in his back pocket. He also has with him the satchel which Bingo packed for him, in which are a clean shirt and trousers and some food.

APPEARANCE: Reggie is thin because he is constantly active, and he is rather short. His hair is dark brown and occasionally gets grass caught in it from playing outdoors. While he has his quiet moments, he is usually smiling.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: He is outgoing and happy most of the time, and does not allow himself to be discouraged. He usually can find a way out of a fix, and being perhaps more curious than is good for him, often has to do so. His greatest strength is his stamina; his greatest weakness is the fact that he is always getting himself into trouble.

HISTORY: Since he was only six years old when his parents were killed, he does not have many prominent or clear memories of them. He likes his independence, but also loves to hear stories about his parents from Bingo. The fact that he is different from his other relatives because of his unusual parental situation does not really bother him; in fact, it has only made him closer to his older brother, whom he relies on and admires very much.

___________________________________


Encaitare's post

Reginand felt rather abandoned as he watched Bingo go happily off down towards the riverbank with a spring in his step. He looked gloomily towards Cousin Melilot's door, bright yellow in the side of the hill.

I could still go back home, he thought, dreading the idea of spending several beautiful spring days indoors. But then that would give Bingo away, and I can't do that either.

The young hobbit found himself dragging his feet as he slowly made his way up the path, gently swinging his satchel around. It was a sunny day, and the whole Shire seemed to be coming alive again. He ought to be outside romping in the grass or playing by the river with Bingo, not left by himself to unpack boxes and move furniture.

Another look at the yellow door did it for him: there was a cart just outside of it, covered in bundles and packages. He wouldn't have minded so much if Bingo had stayed, but there was not a chance that this was how he would spend these days. Why shouldn't he have an adventure too, like so many of his older Took relatives, or even that funny Bilbo Baggins?

Making up his mind, Reggie turned about and raced down towards the riverbank. There he could see a raft floating in the water. Bingo was there with Sondo, and another hobbit who he knew to be called Rory. Bingo noticed him approaching and looked at him sternly.

"Reg, why aren't you at Cousin Melilot's?"

"I can't go there and unpack things for half a week! If you think I'm going to do that, boy, you're crazy, Bingo Brandybuck--"

His older brother did not look amused. "You must go, or else Aunt Hilda will come looking for me. Come on, Reggie," he said more quietly. "Please, just go."

"Can I come with you?" Reginand said, turning to Sondo, who was watching the whole spectacle. "I won't take up much room on the raft, and I won't weigh it down at all -- see? I'm small enough!" He jumped up and down a couple of times for emphasis. "I can help you lads with whatever you need. Please?"

[Firefoot]

Kitanna - There are a couple of minor things that I have sent via pm that should be very easily addressed. I'm going to go ahead and accept Marroc now, though. He's an interesting character. Welcome to the game!

Encaitaire - It's fine with me if you want to play Bingo's little brother since it is fine with Child. It should make for some interesting characer interaction between your two characters - I'll look forward to it. A welcome to you too!

I've really liked the character submissions so far. Only one more player is needed - looking at other submissions so far, it might be interesting if that character was a real grouch. Not to sway that potential player's ideas, or anything... ;) :rolleyes:

[Kitanna]

Firefoot~

I added those few things tou suggested about Marroc and how he felt about all this. I put it at the end of my history for him.

[Crystal Heart]

Hey Firefoot! I wanted to join this game. It sounds like loads of fun. And here's the grouchy person that you wanted! ;-)

-Crystal-



Character Description Form:

1.) Have you ever played in an RPG at the Barrow Downs? – YES/NO - Which one? Yes- Legacy of Traitors and Seekers of Truth

2.) How many RPG’s on the Barrow Downs are you currently involved in? none as of currently

List them, please:

Please note you may play in only 2 (TWO) Shire games at one time. Exceptions to this may be made for this on a case by case basis by the Shire Moderators. (The Green Dragon Inn DOES NOT count as a game for this.)


3.) Have you posted in The Green Dragon Inn – YES/NO Yes

_______________________________________


For your character please include:

NAME: Samuel (Sam for short)

AGE: 15

RACE: Hobbit

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS/EQUIPMENT: a small knife from his father and a small bow and arrow that was his great grandfather Samuel Brandybuck's

APPEARANCE: He has short, wavy brown hair and deep brown eyes. He was trying in vain to grow a beard, but it wasn't entirely working so he goes clean shaven around the Shire. He wears an off white top shirt and earth brown trousers.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Samuel usually is an easy going person. He doesn't really get upset unless he is in a dangerous situation or too far away from the Shire. That's when he gets grouchy. He also gets grouchy when he feels put out, unfed, underfed, etc. In other words, he gets grouchy alot. But other then those times he acts completely kind and sweet. His weakness is food and his strength is anger. His anger is what fuels him. Especially for food.

HISTORY: Samuel hates his parents. Always has and probably always will. All because of the fact that they tell him what to do. If they didn't tell him what to do then they would probably get along. He would have run away years ago if it weren't for the glorious array of food his mother cooks. Although he doesn't get along with his parents he gets along with the rest of family, except for his grouchy times (which are often).

__________________________________


Crystal Heart's post

Samuel tip toed as lightly as he could towards the door. Today was the day that he would go out on adventure, or something. As long as there was food involved. That's all that mattered. That's what the others had said. They had promised him food. That and a vacation away from his parents which in his opinion was the greatest present anyone could ever give him.

"Samuel Brandybuck, where do you think you are going?" His mother's shrill voice yelled from in the kitchen. He swore under his breath.

"I'm going to the secret hangout with the cousins, Mum," Sam answered, trying not to let the anger show in his voice.

"Without doing your chores?" His mother's voice questioned.

"I did them!" Sam shouted back.

"You have not Samuel and you know it. Don't you lie to your mother." Sam sighed and rolled his eyes. He looked at the door. He could just run. What could she do? She would never be able to catch him, that he was sure of.

"Okay, I'll go do them," Sam answered as he opened the door and walked right out. He laughed to himself as he walked down the path. He walked down to what he usually called the "creek of death", due to reasons even he didn't entirely understand, and the raft where Sondo had told him he would be.

He wondered if his mother would be mad and realized that she would be. He started to think about the punishments she would ensue. Probably locking him in his room for a week. Maybe even doing even more chores, if there were more chores. Then a thought hit him. She could take away the food, but she would never..... He stopped and thought about it. Should he take the chance?

Sam shrugged his shoulders, knowing that his cousins and other family members would never allow another Brandybuck to go hungry, and headed off towards the creek of death.

[Firefoot]

Kitanna - looks good. :)

Crystal - Long time, no see. ;) I like Sam very much - he's very different from the other lads. Welcome aboard!

[Boromir88]

Good to have you along Enca, Kitanna, and Crystal :) .

[Encaitare]

Thanks, Firefoot. This should be fun, we've got a great group of people assembling here!

[Child of the 7th Age]

Looks as if we're just about ready to sail!

Cami

[piosenniel]

Here's the crew:

Players/Characters:

1. Boromir88 (Rorinac Brandybuck, “Rory”; 15y/o)
2. Child of the 7th Age (Bingo Brandybuck; 15 y/o)
3. Kitanna (Marroc Brandybuck; 13 y/o)
4. Encaitare (Reginand Brandybuck, “Reggie”;13 y/o – Bingo’s younger brother)
5. Crystal Heart (Samuel Brandybuck, “Sam”; 15 y/o)
6. Firefoot (Sondo Brandybuck; 14 y/o)
7. Nurumaiel (Falco Brandybuck; 13 y/o)

~*~ Pio, game moderator

[Firefoot]

Let's go with this order:

Firefoot
Boromir88
Child of the 7th Age
Encaitare
Kitanna
Crystal Heart
Nurumaiel

~*~*~

This is shaping up really nicely, everybody... I can't wait to actually get started! :) The lads are in for several surprises. ;)

[piosenniel]

The Game is now open for play. Have fun! :)

Please remember to REMOVE SIGNATURES from every post to the RPG Thread, including SAVES.

Also - SAVES are to be filled in in 24 hours. And please leave a brief description on your SAVE of what you are planning in general to say.

~*~ Pio, Game Moderator

[Crystal Heart]

Thank you! I've never been a hobbit before and am quite looking forward to it. I'm glad to be a part of the RPG!

-Crystal-

[Boromir88]

Me neither Crystal, on my little contact list for RPG's I actually said any race except hobbits, I had no real desire to play hobbits. Then I saw the great storyline to this, and I thought, I'm tired of being stuck up men and elves, I think it's time to be a cheerful, prankster hobbit :) . I look forward to RPing with you (and everyone).

[Crystal Heart]

I know what you mean Boromir. All I have been is human women in the RPGs and I read the plot and thought it would be so hilarious to be a grumpy 15 year old hobbit. I also look forward to RPGing with you and everyone else here.


Firefoot, who do you wish to start posting? Do you have a particular order? I thought I might ask before I started my post.

-Crystal-

[Firefoot]

Crystal (and everyone) - Anyone can start posting now. I have no order or anything in mind.

[Child of the 7th Age]

OK, we're off and running. Unfortunately, Bingo has just accidentally poked Samuel in the ribs. :eek:

[Crystal Heart]

Yes and Samuel now hates Bingo with a deep passion. Sorry about that Child! LOL

[Boromir88]

The foolish argument (no offense I like the twist) caused even bigger problems between the hobbits, hope they can find their way out of this jam. It just keeps getting better and better and it's not even the end of the first day. :D

[Child of the 7th Age]

Several Hobbits are stuck in some tree branches in the middle of the river. (This actually happened to me when I unwisely went tubing on the Guadalupe a week after a tropical rain storm.) Several others have gone off to try and get the raft.

I haven't listed any names so you can have your character belong to either group.

Somebody had better retrieve that raft!

[Firefoot]

Enca, I borrowed your character for help in getting the raft under control. If anyone else would like to be included in this, or if you'd rather have Reggie elsewhere, I can edit accordingly.

The raft is tied off downstream, and the hobbits all (should be, but maybe not... ;) ) are at the scene of the spill. I made no moves to help this problem - I'll leave that to you all.

Once everything is under control, the hobbits will be heading back to the raft to get dried off and take stock of the situation. Also, I think Bingo and Sam are in for a bit of a tongue lashing. ( ;) ) Any loose supplies (such as the extras several hobbits brought along) are lost, but the rest which was secured underneath of an oilcloth are still there. These would be the majority of food, blankets, a bit of rope, etc. I would ask that none of the hobbits go digging through there just yet, however, since there is a bit of a surprise waiting there... :p

[Child of the 7th Age]

Bingo has made his way back to the raft and has raised several questions with Firefoot. He is prepared to take his tongue lashing whenever you are ready. :D Feel free to barge ahead and interrupt me.

Is everyone accounted for? Shall we take stock of our situation then, and continue onward, or are there other loose ends to tie up?

~Cami

[Crystal Heart]

Alrighty, Sam has made a surprise apology due to a spirt of remorse. Is Sam changing??? Hmm..... lol

Yes, I the creator of the Samuel Brandybuck character is thoroughly ready for whatever tongue lashing you can put upon him. lol

If you're reading this and think that I'm being weird, I'm just in a silly mood.

Ta ta!!

-Crystal-

[Child of the 7th Age]

Fine post, Crystal. I've put up a save for Bingo to respond (hopefully by late tonight), and also made a slight change in my final sentence to provide a better lead-in. Maybe Sondo will be so flabbergasted by our unexpected rapprochement that he's forget about that tongue lashing. Then again, maybe not! But a hobbit can always hope.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Back again. Boromir88 - I've added a bit of description to my earlier post (#20) to try and lead into your description in the save. Here is what I put:

The last to be rescued had been Rory. The young lad had been half drowned, until Bingo had managed to drag him over to the tree stump, and others had come to guide him to the shore.

Please let me know if I should edit this in any way, after you finish filling in that save. Anything you want me to say is fine: I just thought we might want to include Rory in the descriptive lead-in I put up.

Meanwhile, I am going back now to fill in my save that comes right before yours.

Cami

[Boromir88]

That's fine Child, I didn't have anything in mind, Rory was just going to add some extra words to the conversation.

[Boromir88]

The rest of my post is filled, no curves this time, I just wanted to make sure Child didn't throw in any trickses ;) .

[Firefoot]

My save is filled as well. I now have the pleasure of introducing Sassy Brandybuck, to be played by Primrose Bolger. She will have a post up soon, and we will hopefully ( ;) ) be able to continue without further mishap, at least for a while...

[Child of the 7th Age]

Private comment meant only for Sondo's eyes: A hobbit lass? You let a hobbit lass stowaway on our raft? And worst of all your twelve-year-old sister? This is terrible! This is an even greater mishap than dumping our personal supplies...

*********************************

Public Note:

Welcome, Primrose! I'm very glad you'll be joining us in this RPG.

Unfortunately, Bingo may feel slightly less sympathetic to your character. :( I guess we'll just have to try and work things out.

Your fellow adventurer,

Bingo Brandybuck

[Encaitare]

Welcome, Primrose; nice to have you aboard.

*Enca dons her Reggie suit and scampers off to the game*

[Primrose Bolger]

Meet Sassy: :)

-o-o-o-

NAME: Sassafras Brandybuck; “Sassy”, for short

AGE: 11

RACE: Hobbit

GENDER: Female

WEAPONS: A small sling with a pouch of nicely rounded river rocks; a pair of sharp scissors which are supposed to be kept in her sewing box; her knitting needles

APPEARANCE: 2’ 4”; an unruly mop of copper colored curls frames a round, open face with inquisitive brown eyes and an easy, wide smile. There is a sprinkle of light freckles across her short nose. She is given to wearing her brother’s outgrown breeches and a bright red and yellow vest her Gammer Brandybuck made for her with numerous pockets just right for all the little things she finds interesting and likes to collect – in one of them, is a small carved whistle from her Da.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Daredevil – life holds no fears for her, only possibilities. She is an easygoing, agreeable child, unless pushed. A quick thinker, prone to action; often ignores the consequences of those actions as long as they get her to her goal. She adores her older brother, Sondo, though he, for the most part ignores her. Much of her willingness to take a dare is her hopes that he will notice her. She thinks he is the most amazing person there is, and truth be told, she would like to be just like him. Her other hero is her Gammer Brandybuck. Sassy often sits with her, her young fingers fumbling over some piece of needle work or tangling yarn with her knitting needles, as Gammer tells of her own girlhood pranks and adventures.

HISTORY: Sassy’s history is much the same as Sondo’s. She is the youngest child, and suffers an odd combination of being both indulged and ignored by her parents. Her Da is busy with his little apple orchard; her Ma with the running of the household and her large garden. There are plenty of hands other than hers (the older boys and girls of the family) to help out, so she is left to her own devices. And reined in only as need be.

Her main preoccupation, of late, has been tagging along after Sondo . . . in as discrete and stealthy a manner as she can manage. He’s had that certain look in his eye which she’s come to realize spells the start of a grand adventure or scheme of some sort.

On the last one he and his friends found her out as she crept along with them. Much to her shame, her brother sent her packing back to the Hall. Her saving grace was that he did not tell on her later – but only because he did not care to let his parents know what he and his friends had planned.

She is determined to be part of this adventure and is looking for the chance to do so.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hallo, Bingo!

She's just 11, but has a very large spirit for her tender years and small stature.

And you may be the one who needs sympathy if you tangle with her . . . ;)

-o-o-o-

Enca and all

Looking forward to playing in the game with you! :D

-o- Primrose

[Boromir88]

Welcome aboard Primrose (no pun intended...ok...maybe it was :rolleyes: )

[Kitanna]

Welcome Primrose (aka Sassy!) Looking forward to having you on board!

[Encaitare]

Welcome aboard Primrose (no pun intended...ok...maybe it was :rolleyes: )

Don't be ashamed... my pun was entirely intentional. :p

I like the character, Primrose; she sounds like a real live wire!

[Firefoot]

I have a couple things to say here.

First - I love the way the way the game has started off. There have been some great posts, and the way this episode with the tip has resolved itself really bodes well for further 'mishaps' along the way. Keep up the good work everyone!

Second, on saves - if you are going to use them (and I have no problems with that!) please leave up a short description of what you plan to write. It makes it so much easier on everyone else who wants to post before you have filled your save if they have some idea of what will happen in your post.

Third, on the next week or two of posting - I want to wrap up the first day pretty soon. Briefly, here is what I have planned to happen in the next couple game days:

Day two - Not a whole lot. If someone wants to introduce a plot twist, great. However, I don't want to spend a whole lot of time on day two. This may be the time for spirits to rise again before the plunge...

Day three - Here is where the adventure really begins - early in the day it will start to rain, and the current of the river will have gradually increased so that in the evening the hobbits will lose control of the raft and be unable to get to shore for the night. The raft will crash on some rocks after nightfall. The hobbits may not be fully reunited until morning.

[piosenniel]

Please note:

1.) SAVES do need to contain a short explanation of what you intend to put in your post, so that other gamers can post around you.

2.) SAVES will be removed from the game after 48 hours. After that, you can post to the Discussion thread and asked for your post to be moved where it fits in.

3.) Please don't put 'reasons for editing' on the game posts. If others need to know the reason you edited - then put the reason on the Discussion Thread.

Thanks!

~*~ Pio

[Firefoot]

I brought the game to the night of the first day. Someone else may move it on to Day 2, or I will if no one else does within about a day or two.

[Firefoot]

It is now Day 2. As I said before, I don't want to spend a lot of time on this day. Feel free to include time fillers in your posts (e.g. "and so the morning continued" and that type of thing), since I would rather have more time to spend on Day 3 and the following mini-adventure sequences than on Day 2, which probably won't see a lot of action.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot,

I've gotten us down to lunch of day 2, and we've stopped to eat.

Primrose,

Softhearted Bingo has put out a latch to Sassy in the plot. If you'd like to pick up on that, please feel free. If you'd prefer to have Sassy remain aloof, or we get under way again too quickly, that's alright too (although I can always slot your reply into the end of my box, even if the thread continues on).

In any case, the ending of my post is open-ended enough to go either way. (If you do catch a turtle, feel free to use Bingo as needed.)

Cami

[Child of the 7th Age]

Thanks, Primrose for that great post!

I've filled in my save and now the raft has resumed its southward journey. Perhaps someone wants to take us on to our evening's destination, and wrap up day 2 as Firefoot originally suggested?

Cami

[piosenniel]

Please don't put 'reasons for editing' on the game posts. If others need to know the reason you edited - then put the reason on the Discussion Thread.

~*~ Pio

[Crystal Heart]

I am so sorry. I have been in the hospital for the last couple of days. I got hit by a car walking across the street. I've finally reached a computer and I thoroughly apologize for my absence.

-Crystal-

[Encaitare]

I got hit by a car walking across the street.

:eek:

Glad you're okay. :)

[Firefoot]

I got hit by a car walking across the street. :eek:

Glad you're okay. :)Ditto that. It's quite all right, Crystal. Do we need to be carrying Sam along for you (even if just a little)?
Perhaps someone wants to take us on to our evening's destination, and wrap up day 2 as Firefoot originally suggested? That would be great... ;)

[Crystal Heart]

Sam won't need to be carried. I don't have much else to do except for sit around. Thankfully I only sprained my ankle. It's pretty bad and I have to wear an air cast and it is horrible with these crutches so I should be on more often in between studying.

-Crystal-

[Child of the 7th Age]

Crystal

I hope you feel better soon!

Kitanna -

Good post! But I am wondering if we don't need to shift it back a bit. Firefoot has a post right before yours where we are plummetting down the river. Your own post ends before the raft gets started.

Firefoot and/or Kitanna - What if Pio or I cut and pasted this at the end of Encaitare's last post? Chronologically, Kitanna's post would seem to fit better there.

Cami

[Firefoot]

Okay, here's the deal. I moved my post so that Kitanna's is before mine. I think this makes sense since Kitanna does mention how Sondo and Reggie caught some fish.

However, Kitanna, it would have already started to drizzle at the end of your post. Not pour, just chilly, wet drizzling. If you could change that then I think everything would be correct, chronologically and otherwise.

[Boromir88]

Crystal, don't be ashamed, we're just glad it wasn't worse.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Thanks, Firefoot . That works much better than my earlier suggestion in view of the fish.... It just didn't seem to fit in at the very end.

[Kitanna]

I should have put my post here and asked to have someone put it in where it fit, but I didn't even think about that. So sorry.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Kitanna -

No need to apologize! It wasn't a clear cut thing at all. Plus, the give and take is part of the game.

Everyone -

We're close to 'lunchtime', only I'm not at all certain if Sondo is prepared to stop the raft. In any case, Bingo is feeling rather queasy, what with the raft bobbing up and down.

Cami

[Primrose Bolger]

Well, Sassy tried to help . . . :rolleyes:

The raft is mainly out of control and the poles that were used to push and steer the raft seem to have fallen in the river.

Poor Bingo, I'm sure he's thrown up by now. :(

I wouldn't be surprised if they just pushed the 'bad luck' girl into the river. :eek:

[Boromir88]

After short turmoil on the boat, Sondo saved his sister (awww sibling love). Then I ended with Sondo asking who's with him to try to pull the boat to shore...If there are any objections I will be glad to change them. ;)

[Firefoot]

I like the way everything is picking up here. I will have a post up soon, hopefully within a couple hours but maybe not until tonight. I may put up a save anyway - I'm not sure yet.

Kitanna - (I'm not picking on you, really - it's not your fault. This has happened to me before, where posts just get written in the wrong order.) If by the subject line in your save you mean that Marroc will be helping Sassy get the raft to shore (which is the impression I got - tell me if I'm wrong), I think we're going to need to move some posts around again. The sequencing would probably work better if yours came before Boromir's. If that is the case, Boromir, would you mind moving your post to after Kitanna's?

Also, Boromir, this is really minor, but would you mind taking out the line where Sondo says "Who's with me?" He'd be more likely just to expect them all to listen... ;) If you want, though, Sondo could give Rory some kind of pointed look, something more 'personal' between the two.

[Firefoot]

Okay, my post is up (if sooner than expected :D). I'm going to write a post "crashing the raft" sometime soon, as time permits. What should happen between now and then:

The hobbits, for whatever reason (rapids, maybe? Be creative!) start getting up and ignoring Sondo's safety precautions. Perhaps the storm could *temporarily* let up, and then return with a vengeance... At any rate, the raft will crash sometime in the late evening - I want it like this so that it is actually dark, and the hobbits will have a rather sleepless night, not meeting up until morning (does this sound cruel or what? ;) ). Sorry for what seems like a break in the action right now - I hadn't planned on the storm picking up so violently already, and I'm trying to get us on to nighttime.

On post sequencing: with my post 'being in the way,' Boromir can't just move his post, so Kitanna, fill your save as you want and we'll work it out then.

[Boromir88]

Also, Boromir, this is really minor, but would you mind taking out the line where Sondo says "Who's with me?" He'd be more likely just to expect them all to listen... If you want, though, Sondo could give Rory some kind of pointed look, something more 'personal' between the two.

Sure thing ;) .

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot and fellow rafters

I am wondering if we have another minor conflict that needs fixing.

In Primrose's post, she says this:

The rest of the steering poles, which had been stacked near her clattered into the river as the raft bucked on what was normally an area of low rapids, but was now swollen with rain.

I got the feeling that all the remaining poles (except for Sassy's broken one) went overboard. Or are there other poles than the stacked ones that Primrose had go over?

Firefoot's post for Sondo that comes later says this:

Everyone else pair up on the remaining three poles and try to guide the raft closer to shore. We need to work together, everyone!”

So do we still have poles at the beginning of this post? (I understand they will all be lost in the later part of Sondo's post...)

[Primrose Bolger]

I did say that all the poles had gone into the water. If you still want the other three poles on the raft, please advise and I will edit

-----

I would like to discuss one thing that I noticed in this game. And it may be because many of you have gamed together and feel ok about using each others' characters.

I would like to be the only one writing for my character in so far as how she acts, speaks, or feels about whatever situation is going on. Any of you can, of course, PM me or put a note on the discussion thread saying you want to use my character in a certain way. We can then agree on it and you can leave me a 'hook' in your post to react to what you've set up.

I'll do the same for you as needed.

OK? Questions?

Respectfully,

-O- Primrose

[Encaitare]

Primrose--

I shall certainly honor your wishes regarding Sassy, but is a small bit of dialogue or action here and there okay? Nothing hugely deep or important, but just enough to move things along?

[Firefoot]

Prim and everyone -

I think that's a good thing to address. I know that I have been fairly liberal in mentioning other people's characters in my posts, and if anyone has a problem with something, please do say so. This goes for everyone. If you have a problem, please do speak up. We're not going to bite you. ;) :) That in mind, Prim, do you have a problem with the way Boromir88 and I handled Sassy's 'rescue'? I think I'm going to edit slightly anyway (not reading close enough, again, see below) since I had originally though Sassy was partially overboard. As you requested, I will take out anything specifically saying how Sassy responded. Then you can deal with it as you like.

Concerning the poles -

That was my fault; I didn't read closely enough. How about this: Prim, you leave your post as it is. I think Kitanna is planning on having Marroc agree to help - this would leave them with one pole. I will edit my post accordingly.

Can you tell I was in a time crunch before? I may as well change my whole post. :rolleyes:

EDIT: Okay, my post should now be in line with what the other posts are saying, and I've left Sassy's reaction up to you now, Prim.

[Boromir88]

I'm also to blame here, I will refrain from using other characters...it's just I'm a dialogue person and the other RPG's I was in I had carry alongs for my character to talk to, so I've been too free in using other characters, from now on I'll just ask.

[Primrose Bolger]

Thanks, everyone!

Just to answer your question, Encaitare - I really would prefer you just leave me a 'hook' to respond to or work along with your character. If you can just be very descriptive with what your character is doing and saying then I can have Sassy pick up on that.

Thanks, again

-o- Primrose

[Kitanna]

I took off my save because I changed my mind on what Iwas going to say. Then I got a PM from Primrose about her changing her post so if it's alright I'm going to type up the post and put it in here tomorrow. If that's a problem at all let me know.

[piosenniel]

Kitanna

When you put your post here - just let us know where you want it fitted in (tell what post # you think it best comes after).

Either Child or I can then slot it in for you. :)

~*~ Pio

[Kitanna]

I could do that. Thanks so much! :D

[Encaitare]

I know that I have been fairly liberal in mentioning other people's characters in my posts, and if anyone has a problem with something, please do say so.

I personally don't have a problem with it, as I'm new to this and can often use a nudge to get me moving!

I really would prefer you just leave me a 'hook' to respond to or work along with your character.

Will do. :)

[Crystal Heart]

What do you want me to do. Sorry I haven't posted this weekend, we had a blizzard and I was over at a friend's house who just happens to not have internet.

-Crystal-

[Firefoot]

Crystal - I suppose just catch up on the posting (if you haven't already) and respond appropriately. This is what I said yesterday for short-term posting:The hobbits, for whatever reason (rapids, maybe? Be creative!) start getting up and ignoring Sondo's safety precautions. Perhaps the storm could *temporarily* let up, and then return with a vengeance... At any rate, the raft will crash sometime in the late evening - I want it like this so that it is actually dark, and the hobbits will have a rather sleepless night, not meeting up until morning (does this sound cruel or what? ). Sorry for what seems like a break in the action right now - I hadn't planned on the storm picking up so violently already, and I'm trying to get us on to nighttime. Anyhow, you just don't seem to be having the greatest luck lately... do your best. I can certainly sympathize with the snow - we got 2+ feet the other night. Nasty, tricksy weather.

[Kitanna]

PLACED ON GAME ~*~ PIO

Ok this is the post for when Marroc agrees to help Sassy. It would best fit behind Primrose's #50 post.
~*~*~

Kitanna's post

Marroc wished he had never gotten up this morning. Things just kept getting worse. He was tired, wet, and just generally miserable. He was sitting next to Sassy and he found himself jealous of the turtle shell hat she had made. Her head must be dry as a bone, he kept thinking.

Marroc tried to forget that he was wet and miserable and decided instead to focus on being hungry and miserable. He wanted to ask Sondo if it was possible to stop. It would be the smart and safe thing to do. After all poor Bingo was sick and everyone else would catch their death in this weather if they didn't seek shelter soon.

"Hey, give me a hand," Sassy's voice broke through Marroc's thoughts. "I want some lunch and I want it under the cover of the trees on the riverbank."

At this point Marroc should have used some common sense and stopped Sassy. Instead he followed her. She took up a large steering pole and Marroc helped her. They both had to work hard to kept from slipping all over the slick surface on the raft.

With the help of Marroc Sassy pushed the pole against a rock. The other lads were yelling for her to stop. Marroc let his hold on the pole loosen, another stupid move. Sassy had the pole stuck on the rocks. It snapped. Sassy hit the raft with a thud, as did Marroc. Almost, if not all, of the other steering poles, fell into the water. Marroc realized his error now. It had been stupid to try to help Sassy. He should have stopped her.

Looking up he saw she was clinging to the side of the raft. Sondo rushed to her aid and pulled her up. Everyone was safe, but for how long? With no steering poles what hope did they have of getting off the river before things got even worse? Though Marroc didn't think things could get any worse.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot -

Sondo is looking a bit wet. :eek: Just wanted to clarify..... Is this the point in the story when you want everyone tossed off the raft and into the drink? See your earlier comments below:

At any rate, the raft will crash sometime in the late evening - I want it like this so that it is actually dark, and the hobbits will have a rather sleepless night, not meeting up until morning (does this sound cruel or what? ). Sorry for what seems like a break in the action right now - I hadn't planned on the storm picking up so violently already, and I'm trying to get us on to nighttime.

Can I assume that we should not be able to retrieve the raft or our supplies, and that we will be unable to hitch up again as a group until the morning, though one or two of us may bump into each other?

I wanted to check before I filled in my save.

Child

[Firefoot]

Child - correct. The raft has crashed and all the hobbits are in the water. Between the dark and the storm, the raft and supplies will now be unretrievable. When the hobbits make it to shore (and also, I hadn't said this, but if anyone is going to mention it, I want all the hobbits to be on the east bank) they can meet up in pairs or so before morning when all the hobbits are reunited.

[Boromir88]

Might as well ask now, so I can start thinking about my post. Who would like to meet up with the troublesome/annoying Rory?

[Encaitare]

Anyone care to be buddied up with Reggie? Not Bingo, probably, though, since that would make things a little less ... urgent, I guess. Too comfortable.

Reg could go with Rory, if you like, Boromir; or perhaps he could go with Sassy, seeing as he's felt some sympathy for her thus far.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Primrose -

I wanted to respond to your offer of a candy but I was slow in posting and Firefoot had rightly pushed the action forward. I've put my response in the bottom part of your save box. I hope this is alright with you. Otherwise, let me know.

Off to fill in that other save....

*************************

Edit: My save is filled in. I am presently hurtling down river. My plans are to beach my "craft" and begin walking back, even if it will take half the night.

Just a warning.... Someone may get a "ghostly" visitor in the middle of the night, while you are trying to catch a few winks of sleep. Bingo is bleary eyed and half asleep. He'll probably slink in and, given his present condition, will not be certain of who you are. He may effectively give you a bit of a scare. Feel free to "attack" the scary intruder. :eek:

Cami on behalf of Bingo

[Boromir88]

Reg could go with Rory, if you like, Boromir;
That's all right by me. :)

[Encaitare]

Righty-o. When I fill in my save I'll work that out.

[Boromir88]

I filled in my save...

Enca, I've set you up, strangely Rory thinks you're a ruffian...so don't scare him to bad when you show yourself, it might be the last thing Reggie does :rolleyes: :D .

If there's anything that you don't like, I'll be glad to change it.

[Firefoot]

At the end of my post I have Sondo approaching an unknown hobbit... I don't really care who this is.

Also, soon (tomorrow night, I'm thinking) I am going to put up another post moving the hobbits on to morning. If you want a(nother) post in for the night, please do that soon. There are several more adventures planned after this one, and I want to make sure there is enough time for those as well.

[Encaitare]

Boromir--

I've just filled my save in. Reggie gives Rory a bit of a scare, but not too badly! I've currently got them in the woods; Reggie is asleep and Rory is keeping watch. Let me know if you don't like anything I've done with Rory!

[Primrose Bolger]

Cami

Poor frightened Sassy has whacked Bingo hard on his leg, thinking he was a bear.

But I don't know what will be worse for him - she was so happy to see it was someone she knew, she's given him a big hug! :eek:

If I need to change anything, please advise . . .

-o- Primrose

[Nurumaiel]

Firefoot,
At the end of my post I have Sondo approaching an unknown hobbit... I don't really care who this is.

If it's all the same to you, m'dearie, that unknown hobbit is Falco, remarkably cheerful about the whole affair... though he couldn't resist taking one barely noticeable jab at Sondo.

[Crystal Heart]

Sorry for my absence. I have posted.

[Kitanna]

I put up a save and the best description I could put for it was catching Marroc up. I'm going to backtrack a little in my post to right after Marroc is thrown over board to the next morning when he starts looking for the other hobbits. I'll try to fill it tomorrow when I get home form school.

[Primrose Bolger]

I've filled in my SAVE - Bingo and Sassy should be back with Sondo and perhaps Reggie.

[Boromir88]

Sorry for not posting...I was delayed on business, I should get a post up today.

[Primrose Bolger]

I edited my last post - poor Sondo! His sister is hugging him and using an old nickname I'm sure he doesn't want known! :eek:

[Nurumaiel]

Falco is waiting for some of the lads to go along with him... will anyone go on to Sarn Ford, or will they all go back with Sondo? I believe it would be a good idea if at least a couple of the lads came to Falco's way of thinking, but do what you will.

This is such grand fun. :D

[Child of the 7th Age]

Encaitare,

Bingo is going with Sondo, since I've already made that clear in my earlier post. Do you want to have Reggie go ahead with Falco? That way, Bingo can worry about his brother.... :D

Let me know.

Cami

[Encaitare]

Child, I just read your post. Bingo makes a very good argument! I think I shall have Reggie still go on with Falco, though... maybe he can be on a little bit of a guilt trip for a while afterwards.

There will soon be a parting of the ways; should Bingo and Reggie part on good terms? Or should they argue?

[Boromir88]

I deleted my previous save and will put up my post now. I felt what I wanted to do it would fit a lot better after Child's and everyone else's then it did in the previous spot. :)

Interesting occurences, you got me, I have no idea what you got up your sleeve next Firefoot. ;)

[Child of the 7th Age]

should Bingo and Reggie part on good terms? Or should they argue?

Encaitare -

Hmm.... I'm pretty flexible here. My guess is the real answer would be somewhere in the middle. I don't think Bingo would start screaming at his brother since that isn't his style. But I do think he'd probably try to put on a "magnamimous" big brother act and pressure him, which might get Reggie's goat. He probably still sees his brother more as a kid than Reggie would like him to. Just how much all this would get your character's goat is up to you. :D

Why don't I put up a save and have Bingo pull his brother to the side and politely lecture him? Then you can decide whether to get really miffed and explode, or just to part on strained but decent terms, with Reggie determined to show his brother he's not a little kid anymore.

Cami

[Boromir88]

My post is up, Firefoot...

I'm afraid Rory has put Sondo on the spot, if you can agree to his term he follows...if not you got another one lost to Falco.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Encaitare -

My save is filled in. It's up to you now.

Cami

[Encaitare]

My post is up; Reggie is deciding to act a little more independently than he usually does. He's acting civil but, as you said, things are a little strained.

That post would probably fit in best right after Bingo's (post #81) -- Child or pio, would you mind moving it there? Thanks. :)

[Firefoot]

Great writing going on, everyone. My internet was acting up this weekend (it's fixed now, thankfully), and I can't help but be pleased at how everything's going. I must admit, this controversy is turning much larger than I ever realized it would (that's a good thing. :) ).

In light of this, I want to pose a question to Nuru and Enca (and possibly Boromir, if Rory isn't satisfied with Sondo's answer...), and I'm interesting in hearing the rest of all of your input as well: I had originally intended on the hobbits all ultimately going North. However, both your characters seem pretty dead-set, so what if they did decide to attempt going south for a little ways? Eventually, for whatever reason, they would have to turn around in order that the group would be together for most of the way home. I am open to either way; both could make for interesting development of both plot and characters. I do ask that a decision is made soon.

[Nurumaiel]

Firefoot,
This is what I was thinking (that is, if it's all right with you and all others)...

Falco is a stubborn character. He's not going to go back with Sondo now that he's made up his mind to go South. He's going to try to get as many of the boys on his side as he possibly can, and then move on South with them. Something or other will come up, something somewhat similar to that which has already been delaying the characters... something that will be enough to make his followers either openly 'mutiny' against him, or sneak away to get back to Sondo and the others. Falco will hold out stubbornly for as long as possible, but eventually he'll head back... though not necessarily humbled and asking for forgiveness. ;)

How does this sound?

[Encaitare]

These sound like some great ideas! Mutinous, anarchistic little hobbitses. ;)

Everyone will eventually be going back north, as Firefoot said. If Falco does do something to make the ones who go with him upset, or if he's not as effective a leader as he thought, I'm thinking that maybe Reggie's guilt will get the better of him and he'll sneak off. Could be interesting...

[Kitanna]

I filled in my save. Oh those poor hobbits, they're so divided!

[Child of the 7th Age]

Encaitare -

I moved your post right after mine. I also added a very short response of my own. Seems like Bingo's feelings are a little hurt! He did leave the door open if Reggie should want to return. :p

Cami

[Boromir88]

Rory isn't too enthusiastic about Sondo's response...and isn't really too sure about Falco. All Rory wants to do is go home, he's had enough...so could Rory simply wonder off on his own? Then later bump back into Sondo and everyone? Or maybe he just reluctantly goes with Sondo, simply because he doesn't want to continue the adventure.

[Nurumaiel]

Lads and lassies,
Falco's decided to leave right away. If anyone wants to make any last minute decisions (namely Rory, who has to choose between Falco and Sondo still), tag along with him. It appears that the majority of the lads will be going back with Sondo... quite wise of them, though poor Falco isn't feeling happy about it.

Excellent writing so far! I'm enjoying this one... grand story you've come up with, Firefoot!

[Firefoot]

Thanks, Nuru. (BTW, I love your latest post - poor Falco!)

Boromir - I'm glad Rory feels that way - it's kinda what I was going for. ;) It might be interesting if Rory decided not to go with the group, since it seems that Reggie and Falco are the only two who seem to be prepared to leave.

Keep up the excellent writing, everyone!

[Encaitare]

I just put up a post in which Reggie and Falco are just beginning to leave. If anyone wanted to put in anything else before they go, I will be glad to edit it as necessary. :)

[Firefoot]

Okay, here's the deal. In the next several game days (about four) there is not a whole lot planned. Sondo's group will be travelling north, and Falco and Reggie (and Rory?) will start south and then turn back north. Towards the end of this time they all can meet back up again and then... *suspenseful music*. ;) Anyhow, after Day 4 is finished (this should be wrapping up pretty soon...) I am going to put up a blanket post for Days 5-8. If there is anything in particular that you want me to include about your character, like their mood/outlook (and keep in mind, this will be largely through Sondo's perspective) please pm me.

Nuru, Enca, B88 - check your pms.

[Firefoot]

I moved Sondo's group onto just past lunch. Anyone may feel free to continue them on to suppertime - they don't quite have enough food for a (hobbit-sized ;) ) dinner; they may try to catch some fish with what supplies they have...

Also for reference to you all: Boromir has let me know that Rory will be staying with Sondo's group.

[Boromir88]

I filled in my save, Rory's spirits have rose as for right now.

[Encaitare]

Thanks for the heads-up, Firefoot. Reggie is back now, having been reunited with Bingo, who was presumably on watch. (How convenient! :p) Child, I left it open for you to write Bingo's response.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Great post, Encaitare! I have responded and am leading us back to camp. I suspect the others are going to want to know exactly what happened to Falco and where he is at right now.....

You do know the answer to that.....don't you? :eek:

[Crystal Heart]

To whom it may concern:
The original Crystal Heart died today at approximately 12:10 a.m. Pacific Time due to complications from her diabetes. As her sister, I am writing to tell you all that she loved the RPGs on this website and spoke about them often. Especially this one as of late. I regret that I must inform you all of this horrible event. Our family is still in shock and ask you all for your prayers in the weeks and months to follow.

Sincerely,
Melissa

[Firefoot]

Oh. My. Goodness. :(

Thank you, Melissa, for informing us. Crystal will be greatly missed. My sincere regrets to you and your family. I will certainly be praying for you all.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Melissa -

It's with great sadness that I read your post. I am one of the Shire Moderators and have played with Crystal in several of her games as well as moderating a game that she founded.

She will certainly be missed in the Shire. She put a lot of effort and energy into her writing, and many people enjoyed gaming with her. I am putting up a thread in the Barrowdowns Forum to let people know this sad news. Some of Crystal's friends may want to share their thoughts. Once I put it up, I will post a link here, so you can click on it if you wish.

Again, I am so sorry to hear this. My prayers are with your family in the days ahead.

Child of the 7th Age

*****************************

Note -

If anyone wishes to express their condolences to the family, please click on this link. (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showthread.php?t=11675)

[piosenniel]

Hi!

I've 'spoken' with Firefoot and offered to pick up Crystal's character and carry him to the end of the game.

I'm sorry Crystal couldn't be here to do this herself, but I'll do the best I can for her Sam.

~*~ Pio

[Firefoot]

All right, everyone, here's the deal. Posting seems to have slowed down a bit, so I want to be moving on soon - I'm going to be putting up a post tomorrow afternoon, so please get in any replies you intend to make concerning Reggie's return before then. Nuru, please be ready to bring Falco back soon. The hobbits' next adventure is about to begin, hopefully this weekend. (Hint - there may be some fighting involved...)

[Nurumaiel]

Firefoot, I didn't have time to put up a post for Falco right after Reggie left, but I can easily write about his return to the group, including a flash-back to his thoughts and actions when he learned Reggie was gone.

Do you want me to put a post up as soon as you do the one you've mentioned?

[Firefoot]

Nuru - Yes, please. That would work out well.

[Primrose Bolger]

Woo-hoo! Sassy's found a friend!

:D

[Child of the 7th Age]

My save is filled. Prim - it's your turn now.

[Nurumaiel]

My SAVE is filled in, and I've posted again. Falco is feeling a little better as a result of the kindness of Bingo and Sammy.

[Encaitare]

Child, you wrote in post 109 (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=377160&postcount=109) :

“Look!” Bingo grabbed Prim firmly by the sleeve to get her attention and pointed excitedly toward Falco who was standing in the clearing talking with Sondo.

I'm sure you mean Sassy, yes? :)

Great writing thus far, everyone! As soon as the hobbits get moving again, Reggie will sort of come up to walk with Falco and talk to him just to make sure there are no hard feelings.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Thanks Encaitare for catching that. I will fix it.

[Crystal Heart]

Everyone! It is me Crystal. My stupid sister.... I apologize for the pain that she has caused you all.

I had originally asked her to take my place in the game while I had surgery, thus ensuring that you still had Sam's character even though I was detained. I have finally been able to come home, eager to get back to my game when I found the lovely little portion for me and my "death" and the message that my sister had wrote. I confronted her immediately and she said that she "just didn't feel like actually playing."

Thus I apologize to you all for the distress her message caused, but it was only a lie. I am here and will be reading the posts first in a couple of hours before posting.

Child if you could please announce this to everyone with my apologizes, I would truly deeply appreciate it.

Again, I am sorry for what Melissa has done to you all and I do hope that I have not lost any friends due to this.

Sincerely yours forever,
Crystal Heart

P.S. I was having surgery on my knee.

[piosenniel]

Crystal

Please get a post up today.

Next time, simply leave a note on the discussion thread that you will be away; then another gamer will carry your character for you.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

All Gamers

Do not have someone post in a game for you unless you or they have discussed it with the Shire Moderators.

~*~ Piosenniel, Game Moderator

[Child of the 7th Age]

Prim -

Bingo is talking to Sassy. Please stick your nose out and answer if you would like to, or tell that nosey Bingo to go away. :p

I'm not sure how long Firefoot wants to wait before going on to the action scenes. If she needs to go ahead with the storyline, you can post your answer on the discussion thread and I'll paste it underneath in my own box.

[Boromir88]

I will have time tonight to fill in my save and add on a new post...Sorry for being slow lately, it's just been a busy last couple weeks.

[Firefoot]

I'm going to be moving it on to the action scene very soon - tomorrow morning, to be precise. So if you want to have any say in the 'planning' section, please post soon. Sondo will be laying down the specifics of the plan and setting up the scene. He's going to be looking for one, maybe two, volunteers to go along with him to filch some food and supplies off the Big Folk - anyone want to volunteer their character for this job?

[Boromir88]

Rory feels it is time for him to do something, the thought of theft will definately interest him, if Sondo doesn't object.

[Kitanna]

I'd like to have Marroc help, if Sondo decides on two people to go.

[Firefoot]

Okay, the action has (un)officially started. Rory and Marroc are with Sondo; the rest of the hobbits are waiting on the other side.

Boromir, Kitanna - either of you can start the infiltration of the Big Folk's camp. First order of business being to knock out the guard...

The rest of you - the Big Folk are coming after you. How your characters react is up to you.

Have fun! :D

[Child of the 7th Age]

Prim -

I've added a very brief response to Sassy at the end of your last post. I pasted it in at the end of your post.....

Bingo is ready to march off and fight.

Child

[Boromir88]

Kitanna, if there are no objections from Marroc, Rory was going to sneak around the back, and Marroc can come in from the side. I wanted to check with you first before continuing :)

[Crystal Heart]

Sam would just love to go with you guys.

-Crystal

[Firefoot]

Actually, Crystal, I would prefer it if Sam stayed with the others - Sondo would not leave only three lads plus Sassy to deal with four (possibly five - they didn't know at that point) Big Folk. Sorry, but Boromir and Kitanna both got there first, otherwise I'd let Sam come with in a heartbeat. I really only wanted two volunteers with Sondo at the most.

[piosenniel]

From Crystal Heart's post

Rework: Will rework when Kitanna and Boromir make posties :-)

Please put all your out of character comments on the discussion thread -- not on the game thread.

~*~ Piosenniel, Game Moderator

[Kitanna]

Boromir, go ahead and send Marroc in from the side if you want Rory to go in from behind. I really had no true plan as to what I wanted Marroc to do anyway.
BTW I'm hoping to have my save filled tomorrow evening when I have the time to sit and write it.

[Kitanna]

I filled in my save. Firefoot, let me know if you had something else in mind for the thieving little hobbit.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Bingo is in just a wee bit of trouble! Hope someone is out there to intervene, or it's curtains for my character. :eek:

Cami

[Crystal Heart]

Samuel has just done a wee bit of battle and has saved Sassy. If this is not how it was suppose to go, please tell me so I can fix my postie.

-Crystal-

[Encaitare]

Firefoot, what sort of fate did you have in mind for the hobbits? Are they to be captured (some or all), or will they escape to safety?

[Firefoot]

I was planning on having them escape. However, the Hobbits need not do it on their own; to be drawn by the sound of fighting will be some wolfish visitors (call it a blessing in the curse). I'd like this to happen soon; probably tomorrow morning at the latest.

[Nurumaiel]

Firefoot, I was wondering where Falco should be during this action piece. Because of his recent tramp, his exhaustion and aching legs, it's unlikely that he would be moving around much. I wonder if you'd mind if he hid somewhere, realising he can't run and be a help to the others? It brings up possible conflict, for it might make things look dark against him, as if he had been a coward.

[Firefoot]

That's fine, Nuru. Whatever works. :) (Conflict is always good... ;) )

[Firefoot]

Kitanna - To keep in mind when you fill your save, I put it so that by my post Sondo and Marroc had managed to free four of the five horses.

The raid on the Big Folk's supplies is done; Sondo, Rory, and Marroc are heading back toward the others.

[Kitanna]

Ok, I'll have my post up later tonight.

[Nurumaiel]

My SAVE has been filled in. I apologise for the slight delay... we've been having some problems with our connections.

[Firefoot]

If anyone else wants to get in a reply to the wolves, please do so soon. The game seems to be slowing down, and there's really not a lot of time left in the game. They haven't even made it to the Old Forest yet. Sondo's going to be sending word out that they need to get away (though probably not so all the Big Folk can know), so if you want to have your character start moving in that direction it would be well.

[Firefoot]

Okay, here's the deal (in case anyone isn't clear):

Sondo sent Rory and Marroc off with supplies.
Sam went off to find Sassy, and will presumably find Bingo as well, since they were in the same tree.
Reggie was sent off by himself.
Sondo is with Falco; I wasn't sure how open or proud Falco would act so I left that to you, Nuru.

They will be meeting in a stand of trees; they will camp there for the night and have a real dinner. (Feel free to include this in your posts...) The wolves will back off into the shadows again; I'll put up a closing post for them sometime soon. By tomorrow afternoon (providing everything has wrapped up) I will move it on to the next day, and the hobbits will finally reach the Old Forest.

Okay?

[Primrose Bolger]

Crystal Heart

I know that Firefoot's character has sent you to fetch Sassy -- but she's not going with you, so please don't get her down from the tree.

------------------------------------------------

Child of the 7th Age

Sassy and Bingo must be in different trees. Sassy ran far away from the action; it's quiet for the most part, around her tree.

-o- Primrose

[Child of the 7th Age]

Primrose,

Thanks for the tip. I'll "relocate". :D

Child

[Boromir88]

I've been busy this week in hiring an HR intern, and some store managers, I shouldn't have much to do until late April, so I'll be able to get back to posting regularly. Sorry for any problems.

[Crystal Heart]

Primrose-

He's only going to try and find her. As soon as your post is filled I will fill my appropriately. Thank you for telling me otherwise Sam would wanted to have saved Sassy. :-) lol

Crystal Heart

[Firefoot]

Primrose, Crystal - I think that your posts may need to be switched, if what I understand is correct. It wouldn't make a lot of sense if Sam finds Sassy and she comes down, and then Crystal writes about Sam going off to find Sassy. Unless, of course, Sassy will be coming down before Sam finds her?

[Primrose Bolger]

My SAVE is filled in.

-o- Primrose

[Crystal Heart]

I figured that Sassy would come down before Sam found her. That is why I was going to wait upon the post.

[Firefoot]

What you have is fine, Crystal and Primrose. I wasn't sure how you were going to work it before.

Child and Enca, Crystal and Primrose - if you could finish up your characters' conversations here soon, that would be great. I want to be wrapping up this day pretty quick here. What will need to happen is they will all need to gather in together (and eat!), and then I think they're going to have to do something about the Big Folk, possibly burning the bodies, as Bingo suggested. Please feel free to include these events in your posts! Once this business is finished up, I will move it on to the next day and the Old Forest.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot - I think I've tied up our loose ends so Bingo can move forward.


Enca - I had Reggie select a dagger for his own. If you aren't comfortable with that, let me know and I'll edit.

[Primrose Bolger]

Sassy's ready to move on whenever the rest of the group is.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Please remember to fill in your game saves promptly. Ideally, that would be within twenty-four hours, or forty-eight hours at the latest. After the forty-eight hour window expires, Shire mods can and will erase the save. See the Red Book for more details.

If you still wish to insert a post earlier in the game, you may place it on the discussion thread with a request to the moderators to paste it on the game thread. However, that post must conform to everything that has gone on subsequently in the storyline.

Thanks for your help with this.

Cami, Shire Mod

[Encaitare]

It's fine by me that Reggie took the dagger. :)

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot -

Should everyone just record their feelings about the woods, or would you like us to push the action in a particular direction?

My own save is filled so others can post.

Cami

[Firefoot]

I wasn't planning on there being a whole lot of action this night, other than "normal" Old Forest happenings. They will end up spending the night in the forest, though, meaning they won't be able to figure out how to get out, so that type of thing can be included in posts. Okay?

[Firefoot]

Crystal - I'm a little confused. I think (?) you switched the posts you wanted earlier in the game and the one you placed on the RPG, because this one on the DT talks about the forest while the other is about finding Sassy. (BTW, Primrose specified in an earlier post that Sassy found her way back to camp alone; perhaps you want Sam, not having found Sassy, wander back to their camp and find Sassy there instead?) Also, please specify where at on the game thread you want your post (for example, and the end of X's post, #546).

Thanks!

[Crystal Heart]

That post needs to go after post number 142.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Crystal Heart

In the interests of making sure we are all on the same track, I am posting a copy of the most recent instructions sent to Crystal:

As a moderator, I am deleting your recent posts from the game and discussion thread and returning it to you. Both these posts state or infer that Sam meets up with Sassy. These do not fit into the story. As I previously explained, a save or a post that is to be pasted up on the game must agree with the action that has already taken place. Since Sassy has already come down from the tree and gone off on her own, and Primrose has already done an additional post for her in the Old Forest, it is clear that Sam did not meet up with Sassy.

At this point, do not try to fill in the back story. Since we have now turned to another chapter, it will only confuse things and get your character further behind. Your next post should center on the current action: what it is like to be in the Old Forest. If you'd like, you can handle the transition with a single sentence at the beginning of that post that you were unable to find Sassy on your own and went back to join the whole group.

Contact me by pm if you have additional questions. A copy of this is also being posted on the discussion thread so we are all on the same page.

Cami Goodchild, Shire Mod

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot -

Could you clarify something for me? At the end of post #157 as well as at the end of Kitanna's post, it sounds as if we are divided: half in the ravine and half on top:

Firefoot:

"Didn't we have a rope left over from the raft?" he asked. Everyone dug into the supplies, and one skinny rope, perhaps ten feet long, was turned up. An end was let down, and Sondo grabbed ahold. "I'm the lightest," he said, "and I'm not sure this will support me. Try to pull me up, and I'll brace against the sides." He felt the slack go tight, and he was slowly pulled upward. He was about to grasp the edge of the ravine and hoist himself up when someone shouted and the rope slackened again. Sondo fell back to the bottom, and Rory came right behind. "That tree root tripped me!" he complained.

"There goes that plan," sighed Sondo. "The rest of you, stay away from the edge so you don't fall in, too. It looks like we're going to have to follow this ravine after all; the southward way looks impassable." He hesitated, noting the growing shadows. "And everyone? It looks like we're going to be spending the night here. Be on your guard. This place... I'd bet anything that it's far more dangerous to us than those Big Folk ever were."

Kitanna: The hobbits were divided now. Half in the ravine and half still above. What happened when they went farther and they discovered there was no way out. What would happen to their group then?

Is the group still divided in two (half in the ravine and half on top) in your very last post #160? I can't see anywhere that we have been reunited, but your latest post mentions only one group going onward. It's the middle of the night here, and I may have missed something when I read. Could you clarify who is on the bottom and who is on the top, or are we all in one place? Are we now "lost" from each other: one group continuing on in the ravine and one group continuing on top? I wanted to make sure before I put up a post.

Cami

[Firefoot]

Sorry, maybe that wasn't very clear. They are still divided, and both groups moved on - they are at least nearby each other. The only sentence I gave as a hint was this: Some wood was gathered by those not trapped in the ravine. Part was let down, and tinder was brought out. Soon there were two small fires going, one on top and one on bottom. As for who is on top and bottom: I had deliberately left that vague before so that people could specify where they preferred their character to be. Based on recent posts however, I would say this is what it looks like:

Bottom
Sondo
Marroc
Bingo
Rory

Top
Sassy
Falco
(Neither Reggie nor Sam have been mentioned to be specifically in either location; however in order to even out the numbers I suppose they would be on top.)

Okay? Sorry if any of this was unclear in my post. I think I'll edit in a line or two of clarification into my post as well.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Sounds good! They haven't lost each other then....both groups can hear and see each other but they are physically separated. Thanks.

Cami

[Child of the 7th Age]

Poor Bingo! He's definitely looking for some help.

Cami

[Crystal Heart]

I'll be with the bottom group. I just got so confused on what was going on that I decided it would be best to wait until I posted.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot

I pushed it forward to morning. Hope this is ok. If not, I will edit as you request.

Bingo must be a bit out of his head as he thought he saw a horrible ghostie floating through the woods. :eek:

Cami

[Primrose Bolger]

The delirium must be contagious . . . Sassy is seeing something out of the ordinary, too :eek:

- o - Prim :)

[Firefoot]

Well, if anyone (like Sondo ;) ) hasn't figured out the identity of the mysterious ghost from my post yet... it's Gandalf the Grey himself. Sondo's pretty suspicious (I'm sure he'll regret it later...), and if any of the other hobbits are quicker on the uptake than he is, or perhaps thinks the man really does mean them good, well, feel free to defend Gandalf.

[Encaitare]

Meep! Plot twist much?!

I love it; great idea, Firefoot.

[Primrose Bolger]

Sassy's all for letting the old fellow help them out . . . :D

- o - Primrose

[Primrose Bolger]

A quick question - who is above the ravine with Sassy. Is it only Reggie, and everyone else is down below?

[Encaitare]

Falco is on the top too, I believe, if Firefoot's post above is correct.

[Nurumaiel]

Oops, forgot about that! Thanks, Enca, for reminding me. I'll be editing my post to have Falco climb down before he speaks with Gandalf.

[Boromir88]

Rory is definately suspicious of this so-called Gandalf. :)

[Firefoot]

Boromir - one thing: the RPG takes place in spring 3018, the spring before Frodo first leaves for Rivendell. Sharkey has not yet come into the picture...

[Boromir88]

Oh, I'm sorry Firefoot, I thought the timing was after the Scouring. Do you mind if I just leave that post there now, I got to get going, and don't have time to fix it now, but I will get things straightened out, just ignore it for now. Thanks. :)

Edit: I've altered my post, instead of Sharkey, fireworks seemed to be the new topic. Despite the other Hobbits' fond approval, Rory for some reason still isn't so sure....

[Firefoot]

Thanks, Boromir. :)

Also, the hobbits have (more than) started on their trek out of the forest. Someone may feel free to have them stop for a lunch break (if they want to spend another meal under the trees... Who knows? They are hobbits, after all...), or even come to the end of the day and the forest completely.

[Firefoot]

Hey, all -

We're coming into the homestretch of the game, now; less than a day (gametime) before the hobbits are home.

Unfortunately, I will not have computer access for the rest of the week. For now, the hobbits are trekking across marshy land. I will be leaving a post with piosenniel to be posted while I'm away - it will bring the hobbits to the bank of the Withywindle River. It'll be up to you all to get them across...

Once I get back, the game will finish up with the hobbits getting home to Buckland.

[piosenniel]

I've put the post Firefoot sent me to the game thread.

The Hobbits are now on the banks of the Withywindle. They have only to cross it and they can head home.

~*~ Pio

[Firefoot]

Just to let everyone know I'm back. Many thanks to Pio. :)

Now, surely someone('s character) has an opinion on whether the hobbits should be crossing the Withywindle in the dark! (Yes, Sondo is asking for opinions... ;) )

[Firefoot]

Okay, Nuru and I just cross-posted, and I think my post would probably fit better before Nuru's. Could my post be moved to the end of Crystal's or the start of Nuru's? Thanks.

And it sounds like they're going to be staying the night between the Withywindle and the swamp... poor Sondo. All that opposition. ;) :D

[Child of the 7th Age]

Done! The post is at the beginning of Nurumaiel's box. :)

[Firefoot]

Thanks, Child. :)

[Primrose Bolger]

:eek:

Looks like poor old Sassy won't make it home after all . . .

---------

Been fun playing with you all!

-o- Primrose

[Encaitare]

:eek: is right, Prim! I never saw that coming...

[Firefoot]

:eek: Poor Sassy; what a horrible way to die... :(

I think Sondo's going to need a bit of support from the other lads... he's an emotional wreck.

[Kitanna]

:eek: Poor Sassy!

[Encaitare]

I am going to be away for the next three days (Wed-Fri) and probably will not be getting back until very late Friday night. I won't have internet access during that time, and I'm assuming the game is going to end pretty soon. And we'll have to wrap up the game with "returning home" sorts of events.

Child, in the event that it ends by Friday, could you wrap things up with Reggie since he and Bingo are going to the same place? I hope that we'll at least be allowed until Saturday to get our final posts in, but I'm asking just in case. I'll do a concluding post for Reggie when I get home and find a place for it to fit in, if that's possible.

Thanks. :)

[Child of the 7th Age]

Encaitare -

I will wrap things up if that is required before the game is hauled off to Elvenhome.

Child

[Encaitare]

Well, I see that it was not necessary after all. Thanks anyway! :)

[Firefoot]

And so the last day begins. Sondo has laid out a plan for crossing the Withywindle, but I did not start the crossing. Anyone may start the crossing in your posts!

[Kitanna]

I sent Marroc over first, if that's alright.

[Firefoot]

That's fine, Kitanna.

If no one else posts within the next 24 hours or so, I am going to put up a post finishing the crossing of the river and on home. There will then be a chance for everyone to put in wrap-up posts for their characters, and I will write a short conclusion. All right, everyone?

[Firefoot]

A couple things to address here, and I would like your input.

I would imagine that most of you will be writing some kind of wrap-up for your character. I am finished writing for Sondo, but I will write some general wrap-up/conclusion as needed. There are a couple ways that this could go; originally I had thought that there might be some reunion scene at the end with relatives, etc., but this may be unneccessary, even chunky. With the crossing of the Withywindle, the adventure really is over. Not the journey, but the adventure. So, in this sense, I would almost prefer to leave reunions alone, and just take it right up to this point instead, unless you all feel different? Opinions, anyone?

[Encaitare]

Either way is fine for me. I do like your idea, though, Firefoot.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot -

I think your idea is a good one. With Sassy's death, it would be very hard to do reunion scenes. We'd inevitably have to get into explanations to the people at Brandy Hall: what happened and why. Then they'd have to respond in some way. That's too much to take on at the end of a game.

I guess I see it this way. The game should come to an end on the banks of the river. The essential thing that happens is the resolution of the hobbits to go on home despite the bad things that have occurred: the whole idea of hobbits pushing on with living even when things get tough.

It's possible that some posters would want to briefly summarize what their character has learned and/or how they feel as they stand on the bank and make their personal decision to go home. You could leave the game up a day or two to see if anyone wants to do that. Then, later in the week, whatever happens in terms of posting, you could come in with your own "wrap up/conclusion" to end the game as we trudge off into the sunrise.

BTW, I also feel that Bingo has basically said what he wanted to say so, if we handle it this way, I am done posting. The exchange between our two characters resolved things for me...kind of bittersweet. Firefoot - I really liked your response. Thanks.

Child

[Firefoot]

All righty, then. I'll wait until Friday afternoon to write up a conclusion so any of you as wants to can write up a wrap-up for your character. The end of the game will occur here, on the banks of the Withywindle and Brandywine.

Also, Boromir, you still have an unfilled save which needs to either be filled or deleted before the game ends. :)

BTW, I also feel that Bingo has basically said what he wanted to say so, if we handle it this way, I am done posting. The exchange between our two characters resolved things for me...kind of bittersweet. Firefoot - I really liked your response. Thanks. Thanks, Child.

-Firefoot

[Crystal Heart]

It is sad to see this end, but it was an honor to be apart of this game with you all. Thank you for your patience with me.


I hope that I will be able to RPG with all of you once again!

-Crystal Heart

[Encaitare]

Just put up a final post for Reggie. It's been really fun gaming with you all; hope to see you in future games! :)

[Nurumaiel]

Firefoot, I don't think I'll do anything more with Falco... I think where we left off, with his reconiliation with Sondo, is a fine place to leave him off for good.

It's been lovely playing with you all! 'Twas a splendid game, and I enjoyed it very much.

Sincerely,
---Nuru

[Kitanna]

I put up my final post for Marroc. This was a fun game and I look forward to gaming with you all in the future! (:) hopefully)

[Boromir88]

Firefoot, I will delete my save, and get a post up today. I apologize for any problems.

[Firefoot]

I have put up my final post.

Boromir, please put your final post here on the DT; it can be inserted before mine or after Enca's. I would have waited a little to write the last post, but I'm leaving for the weekend in about an hour so it had to be done now.

It was great RPG'ing with you all! I hope you all had as much fun as I did. I'll hope to see you in future games. :)

-Firefoot

[piosenniel]

Good game, everyone!

~*~ Pio

Boromir:

I'll leave the Discussion Thread open until Monday morning early - Pacific Time, U.S. Please get your post on by then and I'll slot it in for you.

Then, the game and discussion thread will both be sent to Elvenhome.

[Boromir88]

I thank you and appreciate all of you for patiently waiting for me to find time to get a final post up for Rory.

POST PUT ON RPG ~*~ PIO

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Boromir88's post:

Rory thought he would never see the day when he'd be so excited about returning back home. He knew he was in for a pretty big licking, but that was a lot better than never seeing his family again, or them not knowing what happened to him.

They finally crossed the Withywindle, and were gradually getting closer to the Shire. I would give up anything for a warm bed and some delicious eggs right about now, though Rory. He looked at Sondo who had his face down and was slowly trudging along.

"It wasn't just your fault Sondo. We all should have been nicer and payed attention to her more than we did." Rory had to use the word "her." He could not bring himself to saying the name. Sondo nodded, not feeling any better. It was going to be a long time before the Hobbits ever decided to do something adventurous again, if ever.

[piosenniel]

** To Elvenhome **