The Fellowship of the Fourth Age (Part 1): A New Beginning Discussion Thread [Archive] - Page 2

Child of the 7th Age

07-25-2006, 04:48 PM

Folwren & Hilde & everyone in this rpg.....

Durelin and I were thinking this may be a good time to stop and do some serious group planning, and make sure we're on the same page.....for the orcs and slaves as well as the fellowship. Folwren -- I hope this will answer your concerns plus a lot more thrown in as well.

I'll give below what Durelin and I had envisioned. If it doesn't work, we'll fiddle with things of course. Plus, there are many questions that still need answering.

The children were kidnapped during the night. So far everything that has happened to Kwell and Azhar occurred in the space of a single night: imprisonment and attempted escape. The fellowship has now arrived at the slavers' camp early the next morning. It's still fairly early....the sun has risen and it is daylight.

At this point in the storyline, most of the slavers are scurrying around camp trying to figure out who/what has stolen the horses/donkeys. Their attention is not on the children. I was going to do one post by the orc Makdush that would throw the camp into even greater turmoil with the theft of Imak's valuable sword. Because of this loss, Imak's attention will be diverted from Kwell and Azhar at the last minute, perhaps just when he is striding over to deal with them. This will give the fellowship a chance to rescue the children while only having to confront a few guards. Even aside from the timing and the theft, my feeling is that no matter what Kwell has done, Imak is unlikely to kill him. The slavers are motivated by money, and they want to get their due for the slaves they have captured.

I also think Imak will decide the most likely culprits who stole his sword and the horses would have been some slaves who'd managed to track them down. The slavers are out in the middle of nowhere and, as far as they know, no one else is nearby. Moreover, Imak could not imagine slaves willingly coming to the slavers' camp just to rescue two useless children. That is beyond the realm of anything he would do. He assumes most of the slaves will try and flee; a few might come over and try to steal from him. If Imak thinks even a small gang of slaves is stealing from him, he is likely to want to take revenge by assembling a war party and turning swiftly on the entire slave camp as he threatened to do initially.

Imak's idea of revenge would not be killing a single boy, but turning against all the slaves and leading an attack on them. The greater danger would be that Imak would be preparing to launch that attack very shortly after the fellowship arrived at the slavers' camp. Perhaps the members of the fellowship can notice that preparations are going on to launch an attack later that day?

Durelin and I originally talked about whether the fellowship should be the only ones to rescue the kids or whether the slaves would send a party to do that as well, and the two groups (fellowship/slaves) would meet up at the slave camp. (The main body of slaves would presumably be camped some distance away with some women, the children etc. --this would be a smaller group sent out.) We decided to leave that question up in the air. Since the slaves were very involved with problems of their own (that required some interesting character development), we agreed that the fellowship would go ahead and do the rescue, if they got to the slave camp first. However, both of us agreed it could go either way.

So we have several options here:

The fellowship alone rescues the kids. They ride back as fast as possible to the main slave camp with the slavers almost following on their heels (or perhaps not quite as closely as that).,
The slaves send out a party to try and rescue the slaves themselves. The two groups meet up and do a joint rescue. (If we do this, my personal preference is that the groups act together without questioning each other's motives/roles etc., which may happen later.) The slaves and fellowship ride back together to the slaves' camp with the slavers not too far behind.
Something else entirely that I haven't thought of, and perhaps someone else will.

Either way, the next scene would be a major battle between the slavers and the combined slave/fellowship group with heads rolling and such :D where the slavers are defeated.

After that we would immediately bring the orcs into the picture. Durelin and I had originally discussed the slaves/fellowship occupying the slavers' old camp (perhaps getting the rest of the supplies for themselves?). The orcs will continue to rob for food --- slaves or slavers would make no difference to them, and several of the orcs (all of those actually played by people?) would likely be discovered.

There is an interesting statement by Tolkien about orcs in HoME. I'll have to find it later for the exact words. Basically it said that no orc had ever asked for mercy but that if one ever did, a "good person" would be obliged to give that mercy. That is the situation we were thinking of.....one or more of the captured orcs (possibly a woman?) would make such a request. The slaves/fellowship must decide what to do. :eek:

There is also the complication of Orc children. As much as the slaves hate the orcs, how are they going to feel about murdering a nine-year old in cold blood? That is what would have to happen if they decided to slay the orcs for robbing them. One other possibility I know about is being planned behind the scenes--the possibility of at least some independent and semi-positive contact between the captured slave children and the orc child. This is another complication to put in the pot.

In the long run, there has to be some reason for the orcs to stay together with the slaves/fellowship. Presumably that reason would have to be one or more threats too big for either of them to handle. They are forced together out of necessity. (Maybe the orcs even leave and then come back because of what they've seen or experienced??) That is the next thing we'd have to work on.

Durelin and I had some idea about what that threat might be, but would love to hear other suggestions as we haven't nailed this down. So if anyone has good ideas about this or something else in the plot, feel free to post here or, if you prefer, send a pm. I know there are individual "secrets" and I'm not asking for those here -- just general plot stuff.

At some point after the three groups join, there will likely be a time condense post where we chew up a lot of time and ground in getting north.

Folwren -- that's a long answer but does it help?

Hilde -- The scouting post doesn't have to go up today, especially since we've raised a planning issue here that will take some time for people to respond. Do you think you'd be able to do a post like that in the next few days in conjunction with one or more by Durelin for her Dwarf?

Hilde Bracegirdle

07-25-2006, 05:55 PM

So sorry to have been silent at this end. But my tribe and I were all under the dental drill and have just returned from our adventure! :D

Thank you too, for taking the time to get us all coordinated. Am I to understand that the dwarf has also been volunteered? I could try to get some thing written in the next few days, but I am thinking that I might not find a sizable chunk of time until Friday evening.

Child, I will be sending you a PM shortly.

Regin Hardhammer

07-25-2006, 06:38 PM

I deleted my old save and put a new post up. Nogrod take a look at it and get back with me.

- Regin

Folwren

07-25-2006, 07:52 PM

Well, see here. . .one thing I see is that realistically, the slaves could not have caught up to the slavers that night to rescue the kids in the early morning. I think Imak would figure this out, with his stuff dissapearing and all that. It is especially not likely since for some time after the attack, the slaves have been busy in their ranks with inner problems and haven't even decided if they should go after them. I am not writing any character that is part of the slave group, but it is my humble opinion (not given so humbly now, I know, but I'm still alright with it being ignored) is that the slaves should not be there for a joint rescue. If you think you can somehow figure out how the slaves could be there, then that would be fine, I guess. . .but, really, I can't think. Didn't the slavers attack late at night?

Here. . .let me draw the times out.

What season is it?

Okay, between 8 and 9 it becomes dark. Watches are set. Two - three hours each? I'm not sure which, I would guess two hours.

First watch - 9-11
Second watch - 11-1
Third watch - 1-3

The boy, Adnan, has promised to watch well, but he doesn't and doze off. But a chap who's promised to stay awake will, for most of the time. So, the slavers attack around 2:30 a.m. They're in and out by 2:45. The slave camp is set into uproar for at least an hour. By then, it's 3:45. Dawn is in two hours, or two and a half. The slavers rode for about an hour, too, and they didn't ride slowly.

I don't know what sort of time there is after that. We've crammed a lot into that time.

How many slavers are there? Can the fellowship just march in, kill the three guards, and take them without being really opposed? Where are the rest? Are they actually going to go off searching for their missing goods? I guess it really wouldn’t take that long to haul the two kids out of the pit. They can take care of the guards quietly, the elf, Dorran, and Rog can manage that. Then Aiwendil and Vror can rush in to help. Two people can drop down into the pit to unbind the children and lift them up so that the others on top can pull them out. Athwen and Carl will not be needed for this approach of rescue, both being unfit for dragging the kids out of the pit like that and also unable to jump back out again.

On the ride out away from camp (do they know in which direction the slaves are?) the children can be put up onto a horse in front of another rider – one strong enough to hold them up as they run the horses. The children are probably not used to riding and they will also be worn out and liable to slip off if not stabilized.

I have no time to think further than this on the matter. What I have just said is only my opinion stated at length. Take it or leave it as you think best. You can do whatever you think best.

As for what you wrote answering my question. . .I guess it does. Kind of. But if Imak is getting robbed right and left, would he just pack up camp and move out, in the hopes of being able to out-run whoever is pestering him? Also, I know that he wouldn’t kill Kwell, but goodness knows what a man like that out of temper will do when he knows his limits, and when his limits allow certain brutalities to be done. But there really doesn’t seem to be much time, which is good. . .

Goodness, the more I talk, the more confused I get and feel like I’m running circles. There are so many people to think about in this. Has what I just said made any sense? I hope it did, because I’m leaving now. I’ll do more brainstorming for you tomorrow when I’ve more time.

-- Folwren

Child of the 7th Age

07-26-2006, 12:19 AM

Thanks Folwren. Many of your ideas make great sense! Yes, it is confusing because we have three separate story strands and we're coming to the point where they need to join together. Not easy to do that. Let me spell out where I agree and disagree.

. . .one thing I see is that realistically, the slaves could not have caught up to the slavers that night to rescue the kids in the early morning.

it is my humble opinion... that the slaves should not be there for a joint rescue.

About the distances and times..... First, you did a great job sketching out the timeline for the night. It makes it much clearer.

I agree. The slaves could not get there by early morning. Your timeline shows that. If we assume the slavers took one hour to return to camp and galloping horses go 6.7 mph (Fonstad's figure), the distance between the two camps is 6-7 miles. A person can walk 2.5 mph. That means the slaves would need three hours to get to the slavers' camp. The best a group of slaves could do would be to make it there by mid-day. If we wanted to make it a joint effort, the fellowship could put off their rescue until the cover of darkness the following evening. (They may or may not decide to do that anyway.) That would be doable, since I think the slavers would likely not try to ride over to attack the slaves till the next morning.

Still, I agree with you. My personal preference is to have the fellowship alone rescue the slaves -- it's easier and cleaner and faster -- and only then ride to the slave camp.

I still think Imak assumes he's been robbed by slaves. He doesn't know about about several things, including the tumult in the slave camp. Plus, just seven slavers orginally attacked the camp. They were in and out quickly. There were 65 slaves spread out around a series of small fires. That's a lot of ground to cover. Imak knew the slaves didn't have large numbers of horses, but he didn't see the whole camp. In his mind, the most resourceful slave leaders might still possess a few horses. If even three or four were mounted, they could make it over to the slavers' camp and do mischief. And if Imak really thinks that a few slaves have stolen his precious sword, he will definitely want to get back at them.

How many slavers are there?

25 in all, but one or two now lack horses, thanks to "our allies" the orcs.

I think the seven members of the fellowship can rescue two prisoners in a disorganized camp, especially at night. I liked your description of the pit rescue a lot. The amount of resistence would depend on how we structure the rescue. If we're only talking about guards on the perimeter and one person watching the pit, I think resistence could be minimal.

As for Athwen's or Carl's role, that would be up to you and Hilde. There are things that could be done by "smaller" characters--creating diversions, helping to calm the children, gaining access in tight quarters or, perhaps even better, sneaking in and managing to add a sleeping potion to the flasks that the guards are carrying. (A healer with knowledge of herbs would be of great use in that situation. Such a move would definitely cut down on resistence :D .)

What season is it?

Not sure??

Durelin

07-26-2006, 11:31 AM

As I've told Child, I like best the idea of the Fellowship rescuing the two children and triumphantly entering the slave camp with them. Well, not so triumphantly, since chances are there will be angry slavers at their heels.

Here's an idea: the slavers are getting prepared to go after the slave camp cause Imak's rather...irked...by them, and they seemed to have such an easy time of it last time; they can at least rough 'em up a bit more, capture a few more for some big money. They leave in the morning? Or perhaps even at night, and the Fellowship watches them. They lay low until just before/when the battle starts, and then in the confusion, rescue the children. Perhaps Athwen and Carl could then take them to safety, while the others fight the slavers from the rear. Then the Fellowship are the mysterious rescuers for the slave group, as they are better armed and better prepared.

Just an idea I wanted to throw out there. Which in and of itself might have been a bad idea, because it might just add to any confusion/difficulties.

What season is it?

I think the consensus has mostly been that it is hot, and even though it is Mordor and that could mean a lot of things, I think we can assume it's spring or summer.

Most likely it's actually summer, since I doubt the Fellowship would have left sometime in the winter.

Has anyone been thinking of it very differently?

Folwren

07-26-2006, 11:57 AM

I was thinking it was summer.

Would a full out attack from the slavers on the group of slaves really be all that possible to do? I mean, it's possible, but it seems to me the slavers would come out definitely the winners, seeing as all of them are fully armed and are also trained fighters, also much better fed and physically prepared for a fight.

-- Folwren

Durelin

07-26-2006, 12:08 PM

25 versus 65 plus an Elf, two men, and a Dwarf well-armed (and with six horses), plus an Istari (well, I imagine Aiwendil can hold his own in a fight, heh)...and then Athwen and Carl, who I think could take out a baddie in a pinch.

Numbers do matter. Besides, at least I'm not imagining the slavers as that well-armed. It's still Mordor, and it's not going to be a place where any good weapons and the like are easy to come by. And these guys are bounty hunters trying to earn money for a reason, so I imagine they're not well-off in any way.

That's at least how I've been picturing them, though perhaps I've been in my own little world....

And though the sixty-five includes women and children, they're by no means completely helpless, even if Khamir sometimes thinks they are. :D

Perhaps we could kill a number of slaves off to make things as realistic as possible? I'm always up for lowering the numbers in such a way. ;)

If all else fails when it comes to realism, we pull the Istari card.

Speaking of which... What can Aiwendil talk animals into doing? :p

To try and be more helpful...a more specific response to this:

seeing as all of them are fully armed and are also trained fighters, also much better fed and physically prepared for a fight

Trained fighters I doubt. They're not soldiers. They're bandits who deal with human beings, essentially. And better fed, maybe, but the slaves are not weak. They've been living in worse conditions than they are on the move for years as slaves. Their bodies are probably reacting positively to such.

Just my thoughts, though they are mostly based on assumptions. Not that we have much else to go on.

Folwren

07-26-2006, 12:39 PM

Oh, okay, that's fine. My thoughts were all based on assumption, too, and your assumption carries more weight than mine, I think. ;)

-- Folwren

Nogrod

07-26-2006, 04:24 PM

Some thoughts before I leave for the youth-camp...

I can't see any realistic scenario where the slaves go after the two kidnapped ones. The Easterlings took them at night by horses and the slaves don't know where and how far they went. And at the time of an imminent danger, splitting the group would be too dangerous and the chances of a successful mission minuscule.

So let the fellowship rescue them?

How about, if the slavers make a revenge-attack (to gain the lost property & new captives) the next night? The fellowship or some of the slaves might anticipate it and they would build a trap to them? Thence the situation might be made more even and the Fs & slaves might win.

The orcs would stay around as they would see that the slavers are not getting away when the day comes - waiting for the spoils the next night again. And how happy would they be to see almost all the slaver camp take to their horses and ride away when the night comes, leaving just the horseless ones + a couple extra perhaps to guard the camp (remember, they believe it was the few slaves with horses that made the robbery last night)?

Then on the next day after the nightly trap has worked and the slavers are defeated, the fellowship and the slaves would go to check the slavers camp for supplies and possibly meet the orcs there?

Or the orcs would get away from the slavers camp when seeing them coming towards the camp they have devastated and then the orcs would follow the fs & slaves in hope of supplies to steal from them?

Or something.

Nogrod

07-26-2006, 06:52 PM

... a bit more, sorry... :)

So in the morning as the the fs & the slaves have greeted and appreciated each others (or not), they would realise that:
a) the slavers would be back the next night
b) open fight is too risky
c) fs knows where the slaver-camp is and could estimate there being lots of food & other stuff in there

They decide to move a bit forwards, finding a suitable location to the trap they would lay and then camp there?

In the evening they would put up decoy-sleepers by gathering sacks and bags and stones and whatever and cover them with blankets around small fires. Maybe a couple of guards out in the open just to look believable (not only one any more as they have the experience of the last night)? And all those able to use weapons - and to whom there are weapons to share - to wait in a suitable position, hidden from the sight of anyone approaching the camp?

Maybe some more sophisticated things too? If they would have a net, they could lay it through a suitable trail into the camp, laying it to the ground so that it could not be noticed from afar, and then hoist it as the riders come rushing over it? I believe we could come up with many possible traps together... If there would be a few trees or piles of stone / big rocks, some could hide in them and then drop the riders from their saddles with a simple rope that could be hoisted high enough when they pass the trees / rocks, whatever...

Just some ideas for you to elaborate...

Then a wish.

If the "battle" takes place before I come back, I would like someone of you to mention Hadith somewhere so that I could continue from there. My idea is, that he's now gotten an experience of not being able to do anything (the first phases of the first attack) and of succeeding (dropping the Easterling), of humiliation (been stolen the knife) and of a triumph (proving Khamir he had been right and making it somewhat in a "manly" fashion). So now he would need a real challenge with these manly arts he so much appreciates and seems to crave for.

So someone could note (or order, if it's Khamir :) ) him to take a responsible or tough place and maybe to notice him to have trouble with it. What I'm after is that Hadith would be very self-assured and proud to take that post and then learn that it's not so easy to be a hero...

PS.
I have sent Regin some outlines for the discussion between Ishkur's and Gwerr's little get-together from Gwerr's part. So Regin will be using Gwerr with my full approval and confidence while I'm away.

PS.2.
See you on the August 4th. I just can't wait to see where you have gotten this story by then!

Folwren

07-26-2006, 07:16 PM

Good gracious! I like your thoughts Nogrod! Most of them, anyhow.

I really like the Fs and the slaves setting up some sort of ambush. That would be a good way to use their advantageous numbers and help get rid of a few of the slavers from the very get go.

However, about the orcs staying around. . .I would think that after having robbed all that they could carry, they would get out of their as quickly as possible. They don't want to stick around and run the risk of getting caught again. I think in their situation, they'd take only what they could carry, maybe (since they're orcs) destroy the rest, if they could do so safely, and then run off. But they're fairly smart- they won't do anything terribly unsafe. And I think that the slaves would really appreciate it if they didn't destroy the rest of the goods. :rolleyes:

-- Folwren

Nogrod

07-26-2006, 07:48 PM

However, about the orcs staying around. . .I would think that after having robbed all that they could carry, they would get out of their as quickly as possible. They don't want to stick around and run the risk of getting caught again. I think in their situation, they'd take only what they could carry, maybe (since they're orcs) destroy the rest, if they could do so safely, and then run off. But they're fairly smart- they won't do anything terribly unsafe.You speak like Gwerr, Folwren! That was just as he suggested in #107! :D

But I think our storyline requires the orcs at least to stick around somewhere...

I'm looking forwards to hear how Ishkur or / and Makdush argue the orcs to stay where they are and not take Gwerr's advice to get away asap, as they don't know of the requirements of the storyline. :)

Have fun everyone! I try to hold my horses at the camp without a possibility to check how this is going... :confused:

Tevildo

07-27-2006, 01:04 AM

Let us hope that, with all this excellent planning, the fellowship or some other rescuer will come soon. Azhar has collapsed on the floor of the cave from some unknown trauma, unconscious and with a high fever. I have a feeling that the slavers will put up with a sullen, rebellious slave but they may have no interest in dragging along one who is seemingly half dead. :eek:

Folwren

07-27-2006, 09:38 AM

How much time are we from the fellowship stepping in and taking the kids? I'm working on a post for Kwell and I would like to say that he heard something above him or from somewhere and although he doesn't know what it is, I think it could be from one of the fellowship. Is this doable?

-- Folwren

Child of the 7th Age

07-27-2006, 10:01 AM

Sounds good, but could you hang on to that post for just a bit?

We've gotten our two volunteers to spy in camp: Carl and Vrór. Durelin will do an introductory post where she "accepts" the mission for her character and for the hobbit. At the end of her post, or possibly in Lindir's response, there will be an indication that the two have left camp. Once that indication goes up on the thread, Kwell should be able to hear something that would lead him to think that help is on the way.

Possibly one of the scouts could even make a reference back to having made more noise than is advisable. :D I'm not sure about that, but you could write and ask them.....

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

Folwren & Nogrod --

Durelin and I will look at some of the great ideas you've come up with and see if we think something is doable.

We are still short staffed, which makes it tough to get a continuous storyline going. I'll post another absence report later today.....

Folwren

07-27-2006, 11:15 AM

I'm about to post a post, still, though. He's going to wake up right after Azhar breaks her ropes (or whatever happens to them). He will not hear any of the fellowship.

Thanks for responding. It sounds excellent. Don't worry, when I post, though. I'll be able to post again after the two fellowship members move in. I just want to put Kwell's reaction to Azhar's condition right now. . .

-- Folwren

Durelin

07-27-2006, 02:06 PM

Apologies, particularly to Hilde - that took me longer than it should have to get up.

But I have posted, and I have it is adequate. I tried to use other characters as little as possible, because I don't like to borrow, but I hope any ways that I used Lindir and Carl (and described them) is alright.

And of course let me know if I messed anything up.

Hilde - I hope that where I brought Carl and Vror up to (just leaving) is adequate.

Hilde Bracegirdle

07-27-2006, 03:24 PM

Durelin, it is just perfect! And no need to apologize. I feel quite bad that I'm still not finished yet. Three paragraphs and still revising, but not finishing!

Hilde Bracegirdle

07-28-2006, 06:12 PM

So sorry to have taken so long here, but Carl's "save" has been filled in.

I was thinking that the children could possibly be rescued through a side route, making use of the side tunnel and brook mentioned in Tevildo post for Azhar, perhaps reducing the number of slavers by picking them off as they happen to get too close to the excavation. That way the fellowship might be able to get back to their horses before being found out. But if the fellowships' hearts are keen on keeping above ground, I suppose that the tunnel might easy prove too small or be partially blocked. :D

Edit: Also, Durelin or Child, just let me know if this post needs to be placed later in the stream of events.

Firefoot

07-29-2006, 04:38 PM

Fascinating how everything's developing here. I've more or less caught up and agree with most everything that's been said here (may comment further later). A post for Grask will be coming either tonight or tomorrow sometime.

Child of the 7th Age

07-29-2006, 08:08 PM

Firefoot - Good to see you back!

Hilde

Great post, and thanks! The side route is definitely interesting, but I'm having trouble visualizing it because that has never been my strong suit. Is the side tunnel a clear, open space, or is there a point where only a child and a hobbit or a dwarf could squeeze through (the latter with difficulty?) The ending of your post suggests the latter and something that will have to be dug out? Is that right? (Good job for a Dwarf or a Hobbit)

_________________

Great suggestions on the thread and by pm about planning! Special thanks to Folwren and Nogrod. We've patched ideas together to make a rough outline. None of this is set in stone, and I look forward to any further ideas/comments from those who are returning from time away (as well as those who've already shared in the discussion).

Proposed Plot Outline

Imak’s sword is missing.

Orcs agree to make one last raid after dark before clearing out.

Vrór and Carl spy on the slavers and develop a plan.

The fellowship rescues the kids at night and kills several baddies to even the odds. Orcs raid the slavers’ camp at virtually the same time.

Imak deals with both disturbances, rides out but then turns back at the slave camp, vowing revenge.

The fellowship triumphantly enters the slave camp with the children.

The good guys must decide whether to flee immediately, or to stand their ground since there is certain to be an attack the next night.

Orcs learn of the slavers’ plans for an outside assault and decide to stick another night to help themselves to more goodies, since there will be no one in camp.

Fellowship/slaves set up a number of tricks as discussed on this thread, e.g, nets, trenches, decoys.

Slaves victorious in battle. They decide to march the six miles back to the slavers camp to reap their rewards.

The orcs are discovered---this still has to be worked out

Folwren

07-29-2006, 08:20 PM

Looks excellent to me!

I was thinking that if Kwell had a very bad time of it by Imak's hand, then he may be rather keen on reaping revenge, too. Of course, this is a foolish and dumb thing for a boy to think, but if they're in a winning battle against the slavers, he may get it into his thick head to try something. For the sake of it not being realistic and because I don't want him to kill Imak anyway, I think if I'm allowed to do this, I won't have Kwell end up succeeding in taking out said revenge, but maybe getting hurt in the process. . .? Unless this would give unwanted delay to the game, or if anyone can think of any other reason for me not to do it, may I?

EDIT: I assume that if the Fellowship are going to be waiting an entire day, Imak will happily over look and ignore Kwell and Azhar?

-- Folwren

Regin Hardhammer

07-29-2006, 10:12 PM

I put up a save where Gwerr and Ishkur will agree to stay and raid another night. Nogrod had said I should handle his character while he's gone.

____________

Undomie -

Thanks for adding Ungolt's response to the orc sisters and also for the sisters' response to Ungolt.

For everyone else, the revised post is here. (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=481107&postcount=96)

- Regin

Child of the 7th Age

07-30-2006, 02:33 AM

Food for thought.... Here is the quote I mentioned before.

But even before this wickedness of Morgoth was suspected the Wise in the Elder Days taught always that the Orcs were not 'made' by Melkor, and therefore were not in their origin evil. They might have become irredeemable (at least by Elves and Men), but they remained within the Law. That is, that though of necessity, being the fingers of the hand of Morgoth, they must be fought with the utmost severity, they must not be dealt with in their own terms of cruelty and treachery. Captives must not be tormented, not even to discover information for the defence of the homes of Elves and Men. If any Orcs surrendered and asked for mercy, they must be granted it, even at a cost. This was the teaching of the Wise, though in the horror of the War it was not always heeded. Morgoth's Ring, HoMe X, 419

The italics are mine.

____________________

I've also added a short addendum to my original post by Imak to show the identity of the thief who took the sword: here. (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=482040&postcount=118)

Hilde Bracegirdle

07-30-2006, 05:38 AM

The side route is definitely interesting, but I'm having trouble visualizing it because that has never been my strong suit. Is the side tunnel a clear, open space, or is there a point where only a child and a hobbit or a dwarf could squeeze through (the latter with difficulty?) The ending of your post suggests the latter and something that will have to be dug out? Is that right? (Good job for a Dwarf or a Hobbit)

I really, didn't have my heart set on a major excavation, unless other's of the fellowship's writers think it necessary, or perhaps more credible. The easiest/quickest scenario would be for the hole begun by Vrór to simply need enlargement at its opening. Perhaps it leads to a sort of cavern, so that the fellowship’s members can all hide in there?

I don’t want to have the slavers appear too stupid, though. I don’t think they would lower the children into a pit they haven’t checked out, especially if they felt they might lose them to a maze of underground tunnels. I personally would opt for the tunnel to be seemingly impassable for a short distance very close to where the children are.

Of course, a dwarf (and maybe a hobbit) would know what's really impassible and what's not. :)

Child of the 7th Age

07-30-2006, 10:37 PM

Hilde,

I think those ideas work well.....

A small hole needing enlargement that leads to a larger cavern where the members of the fellowship can hide, plus a seemingly impassable stretch of tunnel near the children that would fool the slavers but not a bright hobbit or Dwarf......

____________________
Yay! The wireless at the motel does seem to be working so I will hopefully be able to keep up this week.

Hilde Bracegirdle

07-31-2006, 03:10 AM

And I will keep my fingers crossed that there are no major spiders who devour light or hobbits in there. That might rather tie up our story, (or suspend action) for the rest of us! :eek: :D

Brinniel

07-31-2006, 11:48 AM

Alright, I'm finally back. Sorry I didn't post sooner- my two week vacation was actually two weeks of an intensive dance camp and I needed a few days to recover.

It took me awhile, but I've managed to get caught up on both threads. Now I just need a few hours for my brain to absorb all the new information.... :rolleyes:

Child of the 7th Age

07-31-2006, 07:35 PM

Brinniel,

Glad to see you back! I also received a note from Novnarwen. She's returned but has been having some access problems. She hopes to post shortly.

Child

Regin Hardhammer

07-31-2006, 11:12 PM

My post is up. Gwerr and Ishkur have a disagreement, but manage to smooth things out enough at the end. I am assuming we'll do like child said in her outline and we'll be raiding at the same time that the fellowship will be rescuing.

Nogrod- When you get back, please tell me if you are okay with how I used Gwerr.

- Regin

Hilde Bracegirdle

08-01-2006, 06:00 AM

Just wanted to update my planned absentee dates. It looks as though the August 4 - 6 will now be August 10th evening through the 13th morning instead. I should be able to manage to read though.

Also I have been having a hard time getting online at home, so if I don't answer PM's right away, please bear with me. Access during free time at work is also a problem. Somehow they 'Websensed' me out of the Barrow-Downs again yesterday, *horrors*. Luckily, I was able to find a way back in!

Durelin

08-01-2006, 11:11 AM

Apologies for not being active lately. My internet has been acting up, so my net access has been on and off.

We're going to have someone come take a look at it, but probably not until after the trip (when I will be gone from the 8th - 16th).

Today it seems to be doing alright, but I've got my fingers crossed.

-Durelin

Durelin

08-02-2006, 04:27 PM

I'd love to have some opinions on this:

Should Vrór and Carl figure out this tunnel business before reporting back? I'd think they'd be torn on whether or not to make any bigger holes for fear they would be found (not at the pit end, but at the end they entered from).

Perhaps they would go with the assumption that it can lead them to the pit, but, when they actually go for the rescue, they run into a bit of difficulty - they find the way seemingly blocked, and realize that they should have expected the slavers to be a little more observant. But, either Vrór or Carl or someone else, perhaps even Rög with his *many talents* would find a way to get through? ;)

I want to make a post for Vrór before I leave, but wasn't sure if I should just have Vrór and Carl do a bit more investigating to feel pretty certain that it leads to the pit, and then have them report back to the Fellowship; or, if I should have them make a bigger hole and climb through to find things to be 'blocked' (and then between the two of them they figure out a way to unblock it/get past).

Folwren

08-02-2006, 04:52 PM

Well, my inexperienced opinion is this.

Firstly, they should figure out how likely it would be for them to be discovered - that is, find out what the slavers are doing - are they sleeping, moving on, what's their level of awareness right now?

Secondly, then, they would go back to their hole, decide that it probably does lead to the pit and then try to decide what to do with it.

Now, as to what that decision should be. . .I would think, seeing as they were only sent as spies, that they would not delve into it by themselves, but rather slip back with the information they have and tell them what they’ve discovered about the hole and the underground tunnel leading into the pit where one child’s voice has been heard.

-- Folwren

Durelin

08-02-2006, 05:30 PM

Now, as to what that decision should be. . .I would think, seeing as they were only sent as spies, that they would not delve into it by themselves, but rather slip back with the information they have and tell them what they’ve discovered about the hole and the underground tunnel leading into the pit where one child’s voice has been heard.

I was thinking along those lines. Glad someone else agrees!

Thanks for the suggestion about checking on the slavers level of awareness. Didn't think of that one. See what kind of spy I would be? :rolleyes: ;)

Thanks so much, Folwren.

Tevildo

08-03-2006, 02:58 AM

I have a post up for Dorran. Any of the fellowship in camp can answer or it can just be a rhetorical question

I need to paste in the diacritics and will do that tomorrow. I am struggling with a laptop that won't let me do it the regular way. At least it's better than a desktop computer that isn't working!

Durelin and Hilde -- Sorry about Dorran's Mannish pride!

Hilde Bracegirdle

08-03-2006, 10:23 AM

Durelin and Hilde -- Sorry about Dorran's Mannish pride!

No worries from this corner, Tevildo!

And I am sorry Durelin, I'm having a devil of a time getting online at home, (seems I can only get a connection in the early morning). Work is a bit easier at the moment.

I'm fine with whatever you have chosen to run with, although Tevildo's post reminded me that if the fellowship were to worry because their spies haven't returned in a timely fashion, they might start out to try and find them, perhaps meeting the spies as they made their way back. Would this route cut down the time required to move on? Just a thought. I'm also wondering what is to be done with the horses.

Durelin

08-04-2006, 03:30 PM

No, no problem at all, Hilde! I actually didn't expect you to be able to really be able to get online at all these past few days. But either way, it's no problem.

Tevildo - I was actually thinking I would be bringing Vror and Carl back already in my next post. Is this a problem for you and Folwren, or anyone? Hilde - were you planning on more with the spying? I think we need to get moving towards the rescue before things have a chance to slow down.

Child is returning from her trip today, and so might be more likely to be able to post soon, though I have not heard from her, and I don't want to have pressure on her to post for Lindir and Aiwendil to make a decision. If I do not get my post up soon, and she is unable to post for a few more days, you might want to 'stretch out' some decision making between Dorran and Athwen until Vror and Carl get back.

Telvido, Folwren - is it alright if Vror and Carl show up before anyone has a chance to make a decision about going to make sure the two are alright? (And sort of interrupt things.) This will only happen if I get my post up before anything else starts moving along (which I'm hoping it will, actually; I want to get it up as soon as I can, though I guess there are no guaruntees).

Sorry; let me know whatever and whenever you can. PM me if you prefer.

Sorry, I don't know how I missed this:

I'm fine with whatever you have chosen to run with, although Tevildo's post reminded me that if the fellowship were to worry because their spies haven't returned in a timely fashion, they might start out to try and find them, perhaps meeting the spies as they made their way back. Would this route cut down the time required to move on?

Well, it could cut down the time for the Fellowship in the roleplay, but it wouldn't cut down on the time in 'RL.' But it would only cut down the time if they packed up camp and everyone went to look for the spies, I imagine.

Folwren

08-04-2006, 04:35 PM

No, it makes no difference to me and I doubt Tevildo would mind if you post their return before we had a chance to depart from camp. It seems alright. Do whatever you've a mind to.

-- Folwren

Tevildo

08-04-2006, 04:50 PM

Not a problem for me either. I can go with the flow either way. Hopefully, you'll do the post where the scouts return before your vacation break. If not, I'll spin it out some more. ;)

Hilde Bracegirdle

08-04-2006, 05:36 PM

I'm fine with them coming back with your post Durelin, and surprisingly it seems that my DSL troubles have cleared up. (This said with multiple fingers crossed). Can't help but wonder if it was somehow related to the heatwave and limited power supply.

Actually, my dates for being tied up are now running over next weekend instead of this one. Hopefully I will manage a post before then.

Nogrod

08-04-2006, 05:38 PM

Regin: Your treatement of Gwerr was just fine, no problem. Hopefully the few lines I put into the mouth of Ishkur in my last post are right too... (I'll surely change them if needed, but I tried to use a kind of lines he had already used)

Durelin: My last post with Hadith is not exactly meant to make a new twist to the story by implicating any kinship between Hadith and Khamir - not to talk of anything even more drastic. But make it the way you wish. Basically I was just thinking that Hadith would recognize the "race" in Khamir, but surely we could make it somethnig more if we wished for it. Up to you.

Yay! Nice to be back. The youth-camp was great, but nothing beats your own home... well almost nothing. :)

Orofaniel

08-05-2006, 10:16 AM

Hm..

I'm sorry you guys. I have been unable to keep up with this game thus far, and there is no way I'm going to be able to get a hold of the story now. My semester starts again in a week and I've been so preoccupied with work etc.

Since I haven't bee writing much my characters won't be much of a loss to the story.

Yep. That's it. :) Sorry about any inconvenience.

Have a good weekend,
Oro

Hilde Bracegirdle

08-05-2006, 12:23 PM

Durelin, I have tried to send you a PM, but you seem to have a very popular mailbox! Do you think that you might be posting for Vror, before you leave? I'm under the impression that you will be. If not, would you drop me a line, and if so would you drop me a line anyway, letting me know where your ending point might be? I'm thinking I should get writing.

Durelin

08-05-2006, 12:59 PM

So sorry, Hilde! Yes, I will be posting before I leave. Sorry for any confusion, and for taking longer than I should to get a post up. I will hopefully get a post up tonight; and if not, I'll be writing it late tonight and posting it tomorrow morning.

But if you'd prefer to write more, I can cut my post off at any point and let you handle the rest, Hilde. Also, I will not disappear completely on vacation, so if there are any problems with my post, they can be fixed fairly punctually. :D

Child agrees that it would be ideal to have the spies back at camp before I leave on vacation on the 8th, and then Hilde leaves on the 10th (as I recall). So lets keep things moving. (prods herself) :)

Hilde Bracegirdle

08-05-2006, 02:15 PM

Very good, I will look forward to seeing Vror's take on the situation! :)

Child of the 7th Age

08-05-2006, 07:34 PM

Glad to be back again....

I dropped a note to Orofaniel to acknowlege her post on this thread. Durelin and I are discussing what to do with her character.

_____________

Here's our updated absence list for August from notes on this thread and pm's. If anyone needs to add anything to this, let me know.

Updated Absence List

Durelin: August 8-16 (will have some access)
Hilde: August 10-13
Folwren: August 13-28 (will have some access)
Tevildo: August 22-28 (access uncertain)
Child: August 23-27
Regin: August 23-30

_____________

Since Durelin plans to post shortly, I'll put up a save where Aiwendil or Lindir counsel "patience" for Athwen and Dorran. :D

Durelin

08-05-2006, 07:51 PM

And my post up! Anyone/everyone let me know if there is anything wrong with my post, particularly Hilde. I hoped I 'used' Carl properly, and not too much (though I ended up having to use him more than I planned...).

I do hope that was a fine enough spying run. :p

Also, I wasn't positive about what the slaver camp would be like, so sorry if there are any inconsistencies with that.

Again, let me know if there are problems.

Unfortunately I'll be gone almost all day tomorrow, but I should be able to check up on things in the evening.

Folwren

08-05-2006, 08:08 PM

Also, I wasn't positive about what the slaver camp would be like, so sorry if there are any inconsistencies with that.

Oh, I think it was excellent. Especially the part of kicking and throwing rocks and dirt into the pit. May give me something to write about for Kwell tonight or tomorrow. . .more trouble for the boy to stir up for himself. I'd enjoy to give a few jabbing remarks and insults to the men.

-- Folwren

Hilde Bracegirdle

08-06-2006, 04:27 AM

Beautiful job, Durelin! And you handled Carl very well, thanks.

Child of the 7th Age

08-07-2006, 03:12 AM

Great job, scouts! :D

Members of the fellowship....

I've filled in my save (#131) to respond to Dorran and Athwen. I've also put up a transitional/narrative post (#133) to get us into the planning for the night. Since I am using other characters to a limited degree, let me know if any change is needed.

Also please take a look at the questions Lindir has raised and respond briefly for your characters. I am not sure Lindir totally understands the camp lay out and likely course of action as well as Carl and Vrór do, so please correct me if I've misunderstood or misrepresented anything. Also, if you've got any ideas to throw into the pot, be my guest.... It would be nice to get the actual rescue rolling in a few days as this will also give the orcs a chance to post again and wreck more havoc.

CaptainofDespair

08-09-2006, 08:09 AM

Durelin has asked me that I post here to inform you all that she does not have internet access at her current hotel. Also, since she feels there may not be access at future hotels, she may not be able to post until she returns.

-The Mouth of Durelin

Child of the 7th Age

08-09-2006, 11:48 AM

Thanks, Captain of Despair, for passing that on. Also, please check your pms.

Tevildo

08-10-2006, 02:19 AM

I've filled my save. Dorran has volunteered to guard Carl and Vrór.

Child

I've used Lindir and Aiwendil as you suggested. Please let me know if I should change anything.

Child of the 7th Age

08-10-2006, 11:58 AM

Lindir looks fine!

By the way, and this is especially for the Orcs who are currently lost in slumbers, you can assume that time has now advanced to the point that twilight is falling so feel free to drag yourself out of bed..... I will indicate that advance of time in my save, which I hope to do late tonight.

Nogrod

08-10-2006, 01:25 PM

Do I have it right if I think that basically nothing has happened with the slave-refugees?

So they are still confused after the attack of the slavers and their own internal polemics?

Bad that Durelin is not here now.

I thought of making a post for Hadith, but I'll just have to be careful with it, I suppose.

Would it sound reasonable enough that f.ex. Beloan would put Hadith to guard on a hill nearby if they can't continue for a while because of the wounded?

And surely the writing with the slaves has ended at some early morning hours, so should we try to write them also to the evening now? I thought that the FS would meet them (the slaves) with the children at the early hours of the day and fight against the slavers the next night - raiding their camp after that (and then meeting the orcs)...

Do the slaves come up with their own plan of making a defence (and traps) for the night or do we wait for the fellowship to give them the ideas? Or should they try to run farther away when there still is a whole day in front of them?

And when should the orcs come to the stage? It seems now that they first meet the fellowship alone trying to free the two children... not the FS and the slaves together as they come to attack the slaver-camp? So is the FS's rescue-operation now a day late?

Sorry, but the time away from the story has raised these issues of small confusion.

Nogrod

08-10-2006, 02:07 PM

I have tried to arrange the timelines in my head to have some understanding about them.

If I'm wrong, please correct me.

So, if we call the night when the slavers attack the refugees and take their captives as Night1, we should get the following scenario...

Night1
- slavers attack the refugees and take two children with them
- orcs raid the slaver camp after the slavers have come back at the last hours of the night
(late night / early morning: Ishkur argued against Gwerr for not running away from the slavers because it was getting bright already
the same night: slavers would not waste two whole days + one night not to attack the refugees a second time - and surely not before as at least Grask had noticed the children)

Late night / Early morning1
- refugees have their internal tensions flaring with Johari & Eirnar protesting + the trio caught up stealing weapons

Day1
- slaves caring about their wounded
- slavers making ready for a raid on the refugees the next night
- orcs sleeping

Night2
- slavers attack the refugees again
- slaves: have they any defences? have they prepared? have they any help? (what have they done the whole day?)
- orcs hitting the slaver camp again for more loot as they see the slavers leave the camp for their raid on the refugees

Would that be the scenario without the fellowship's influence over matters? Now where indeed the FS comes to the play?

My first impression was that the FS scouts would free the children something like early morning1 and then the FS & the children would meet the refugees on day1 - and build the traps against the slavers on day1 - to execute them on night2 as the slavers attack. Then they all would check the slaver camp on night2 / early morning2, after the battle, to meet the orcs there...

Durelin

08-10-2006, 11:42 PM

Do I have it right if I think that basically nothing has happened with the slave-refugees?

So they are still confused after the attack of the slavers and their own internal polemics?

Well, essentially, their internal issues plus the fact that they have wounded to take care of keep them from going anywhere. The wounded are the main factor, and are the main reason Khamir lets things go for a little while (well, at least that's the reason he tells himself). They'd have to leave the wounded behind and people to care for them, but they're not about ready to split up...it actually takes a well-organized, tightly knit group to do that successfully.

As for the timeline... I was thinking the slavers were planning a raid for Day 2, because they will be dealing with other disturbances that night - both the Fellowship rescue and the Orcs once again plundering from their camp. So, the Fellowship would actually be rescuing on Night 2 (the Night of Day 1). I am perhaps forgetting the plot outline completely right now. My brain is mostly mush after so many hours in an airplane and in a car, with a timezone switch thrown in... (Speaking of which, if anyone would like to see pretty pictures from Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone, PM me and I'd be glad to share when I get all the good ones uploaded. :D I even have bear pictures! :p)

Sorry to everyone for my traveling and my net difficulties! I'll do my best to work on a post (or two) tomorrow (it's getting close to midnight here, so I'll have to shoot for that).

Child of the 7th Age

08-11-2006, 01:24 AM

Imak’s sword is missing.

Orcs agree to make one last raid after dark before clearing out.

Vrór and Carl spy on the slavers and develop a plan.

The fellowship rescues the kids at night and kills several baddies to even the odds. Orcs raid the slavers’ camp at virtually the same time.

Imak deals with both disturbances, rides out but then turns back at the slave camp, vowing revenge.

The fellowship triumphantly enters the slave camp with the children.

The good guys must decide whether to flee immediately, or to stand their ground since there is certain to be an attack the next night.

Orcs learn of the slavers’ plans for an outside assault and decide to stick another night to help themselves to more goodies, since there will be no one in camp.

Fellowship/slaves set up a number of tricks as discussed on this thread, e.g, nets, trenches, decoys.

Slaves victorious in battle. They decide to march the six miles back to the slavers camp to reap their rewards.

The orcs are discovered---this still has to be worked out

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

As my own balliwick is more the fellowship and orcs, I will leave most of the details of the slave plot to Durelin. But it may help if I post our general outline. See above....

This is my understanding based on the outline and the story. We have completed #1-#3 and will be taking on #4 shortly. This is the fellowship's second day in Mordor, and they have only slept a few hours the night before. It is turning towards evening now of their second day and the fellowship will attack at night. An orc raid will take place at about the same time. I would suspect the fellowship will arrive back at the slave camp in the dead of night, perhaps a few hours after midnight.

Just a reminder....While the Dwarf and Hobbit were spying on the slavers camp in the day, Imak sent out a spy to the slave camp. See below and my italics. Since the slaves are not moving anywhere, Imak would decide to attack the following night....that would be the night after the fellowship's rescue of the children.

"We will ride against the slaves," Imak snarled. "Those thieves not only stole our mounts but the finest sword in this camp. I will retrieve that weapon and personally cut off the head of whoever did this. The rest of them will be dragged off in chains and taken back to the plantation."

"Gurug, come here." He jerked a finger at one of the men. "You will ride this morning to the slave camp. find out what's happening, and then come back. If the slaves are packing to move, we will strike at them immediately. If they dally, we will wait till the following night. There is much to do to prepare....."

Imak will understand that you can't get a group as large as that moving without some preparation. Since the slaves aren't making prepatations to leaves, Imak will know there's no way they could get off the next morning. This is why he feels "safe" delaying his attack. After the fellowship's theft of the children, Imak's resolve will double but his plan will remain the same....to attack the slaves the next night, just as he had originally proposed.

Don't know if this makes sense---my brain is also spaced out---but this is how we originally laid things out.

Child of the 7th Age

08-11-2006, 01:49 AM

Save filled...short and to the point. Pio - feel free to use Aiwendil to agree to whatever scheme you're concocting.

After that, I'll do a post that will get the fellowship out of camp and heading towards the tunnel.

piosenniel

08-12-2006, 12:24 AM

Will do in the a.m. :)

~*~ Pio

piosenniel

08-12-2006, 12:14 PM

SAVE filled - Rôg has proposed the outline of a plan to Aiwendil, leaving much room for improvisation as needed.

:D

Child of the 7th Age

08-12-2006, 06:49 PM

Thanks, Pio. Looking good.

My own save is filled. Imak, good fellow that he is, has inadvertently assisted the fellowship rescue by sending five scouts to block anyone who might ride out from the slave camp. Five less bodies to deal with, plus there is "socializing" going on amongst Imak's men. They will keep their wits about them but their guard has definitely been lowered.

Nogrod

08-12-2006, 06:58 PM

Should any of this buzzing be seen by Hadith as he is guarding the slave camp at the top of the highest hill around to the east of the camp, something like a mile away from the camp of the refugees?

Who would he see first? The FS and the captive-children?

Brinniel

08-13-2006, 10:10 PM

Sorry I haven't written for some time. I've been trying to brainstorm something up.

Shae is bored and becoming rather impatient watching the others sleep. Fed up with Khamir and following his orders, she has a strong urge to abandon the camp and perhaps find a way to rescue the children on her own. Little does she know, there are more than just slavers beyond the camp....

I don't know.....it was just an idea. I wanted approval before I put this thought into action.

Child of the 7th Age

08-14-2006, 01:15 AM

Brinniel - An interesting idea! I'd normally wait for Durelin to give her approval for this plot twist, since it involves the slaves. However, since she may not be online till Thursday, I would say go ahead and give started on it before then. It will be Khamir's "welcome back" present--another headache for him to deal with.

Of course, I am assuming you will be stopped on the outskirts of camp by the presence of Imak's riders. I would not have a problem if you and/or some other slaves managed to take out a rider or two. I would also not have a problem if you narrowly escape with your life and hightail it back to the slave camp, bringing your tale of woe to the others.

Nogrod -

Please check your pms.

_______________

I hope to get the fellowship to the slavers' camp tomorrow in a narrative post....

Nogrod

08-14-2006, 11:34 AM

Nice idea Brinniel!

Hadith probably won't be guarding the whole day - or then he could... this has to be thought about (that's relating to the question, whether he would notice the FS coming in the afternoon).

But he could see Shae getting out from the camp in the morning. That would be fine. I'll wait until Brinniel has made her post to react to it somehow.

Regin Hardhammer

08-16-2006, 02:21 AM

Save filled. Nogrod, Child, Firefoot, or Undomie.....you are welcome to have your orc characters respond.

Sorry this is so late but things are nuts as I am getting ready to leave next week. (Plus I was watching a baseball game that went 18 innings!)

- Regin

Child of the 7th Age

08-16-2006, 03:58 AM

I am also a laggard. I beg your indulgence. I'm dealing with unavoidable family problems--nothing terrible, just time consuming. I will be home tomorrow waiting for an AC repairman to come so should have time to get that save done then.

Durelin

08-16-2006, 07:13 PM

Finally back! Hopefully I can get back into the swing of things really quick. Unfortunately the start of school is coming up much faster than I'd like, and I have summer work to do. But...I've ignored it till now, and I'll ignore it more. Shouldn't be too difficult anyway.

Right now I just need sleep. :D

I promise I will read up on everything tomorrow and work on a post.

And as for plot twists and headaches...anything goes! :p

Child of the 7th Age

08-17-2006, 02:30 AM

Durelin,

It is good to see you. I also need sleep :D and will drop you a note tomorrow. I hope you had a good trip.

_______________

Finally, we are there at the camp....

I have briefly used some of your characters. If anything needs an edit, please let me know.

Durelin

08-17-2006, 07:18 PM

Alrighty...I've posted for Khamir. I'll have a post up for Vror tomorrow.

Brinniel - I hope my post is alright. It leaves it open for Shae to be anywhere you'd like at this point; perhaps she has already ran off, or perhaps she is preparing to. Maybe she's even trying to convince someone else to go with her? It's up to you.

If you don't like it that I mentioned Shae being gone (or just Shae in general, really) in my post at all, it can be completely redone.

Brinniel

08-18-2006, 11:50 PM

Durelin, are you setting up your last post to the morning after the children were captured? The mention of Shae is fine, except I was planning on her to leave the evening before the rescue of the children. Perhaps if you changed your time to evening and squeezed in my post before yours, that would be great. That way Nogrod could post for Hadith (maybe witnessing Shae leaving the camp), and then I could make my next post the struggle between a rider and Shae. :)

Anyways, if you could just place it above yours, here's my post:

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

Brinniel's post

Dusk approached, marking the end of a long, uneventful day. Shae sat facing the west, staring out at the orange and pink hue that was left of the sun. As each minute went by, she could feel the restlessness spread throughout her body. A whole day had been wasted by sitting and doing absolutely nothing. And why was that? Khamir. The slightest thoughts of him made her clench her hands into fists. The previous night had been spent in complete chaos, mostly in disapproval of Khamir’s actions, yet the ex-slaves still followed his orders.

Shae kept thinking back to the children who had been taken—Kwell and Azhar were their names. Surely they have given up on all hope of being rescued by now. Shae hated to think of the suffering they would forced to endure. It shouldn’t be so. Leaving innocent children in the hands of slavers while the others simply rested. And even worse, there were no intentions to depart the next day. Shae’s nails dug into her palms causing her old wounds to reopen and bleed through the bandages. She turned around and gazed at the others. Most were either eating or sleeping. No objections to Khamir’s orders. And not even the slightest bit of sympathy for the captured children. Shae couldn’t take it. For years, she had been reliant on others to help her. But not anymore. If anything were to be done, she would have to do it herself.

Standing to her feet, Shae searched for Khamir with her good eye. He stood in the back of the camp occupied with Beloan. Perfect. Few ever noticed her presence among the ex-slave. It would be a long time before anyone discovered she was gone. With one last look at the camp, Shae took off in the direction of the slavers’ camp

Durelin

08-20-2006, 12:41 PM

Brinniel - I'm pretty sure I left it open so that Shae could have left sometime in the evening, because neither Khamir nor Beloan state that they have seen her at any point, really.

Nogrod brought the time up to dawn, unless I really misinterpreted his post, so I think he should probably place your post before his. Reading your post, I think it fits there fine.

If you'd rather try to fit it in somewhere else, just let me know.

Sorry for all the confusion.

And I apologize for not having a post up for Vror yet. I can't believe school starts in a week! :eek:

Brinniel

08-21-2006, 01:05 AM

I'm sorry, I getting confused on the posts and when they all take place.

I believe Nogrod's post is the morning after the ex-slave camp is attacked. The next posts pass throughout the day into the evening. And it is that same evening that I plan to have Shae take off. Durelin, does your post take place the same time as Nogrod's post, or is it the next morning?

Nogrod

08-21-2006, 07:39 AM

I believe Nogrod's post is the morning after the ex-slave camp is attacked. That was the intention. :)

Child of the 7th Age

08-22-2006, 02:29 AM

An update on summer absences. This week will be "hard hit". Here is a list of those gone.

Folwren: August 16-28
Child: August 23-27
Regin: August 22-30
Tevildo: August 23-29

Additionally, Hilde is currently snowed under with other responsibilities and Piosenniel will likely be absent a few days as well.

Durelin and I have discussed this situation. We will keep the game thread open. If you're here, please feel free to post, although the plot will likely move forward very slowly, especially the fellowship rescue. Once our vacations are over, we will try to get everything back on track again and finally get the three groups together!

We are also hoping that Thinlomien will be joining us shortly as we had originally planned.

Durelin

08-23-2006, 10:11 AM

And it is that same evening that I plan to have Shae take off.

Ah, the evening of the day following the attack of the camp?

My post takes place just a little after Nogrod's, so Shae just hasn't left yet. I don't think Khamir or Beloan are going to bother looking for her until much later, and by then she will be gone...

I don't know how good of an idea it is to jump to the second evening quite yet. As Child has said, things are going to move very slowly. Perhaps you could have her decide to and start to prepare to leave in the evening rather than jumping straight into that? Sorry...the Fellowship has yet to even complete their rescue. :D

But it's up to you.

Perhaps I could have Khamir go looking for Shae, or simply edit my post and have Khamir run into her...and then perhaps there could be a confrontation between the two that might seal (even further) Shae's decision to take matters into her own hands? I'm up for anything.

Also, Nogrod, I was thinking that maybe Adnan could approach Hadith...to ask him 'how he did it,' how he managed to take a man down. Though perhaps we should keep it as a fairly short conversation? Could go either way...Adnan isn't very talkative and will feel awkward talking to Hadith, but I also think Hadith can talk quite a bit... PM me about it if you'd rather. :)

Brinniel

08-23-2006, 01:51 PM

or simply edit my post and have Khamir run into her...and then perhaps there could be a confrontation between the two that might seal (even further) Shae's decision to take matters into her own hands?
That could be quite fun. :D
Then I could edit mine and add in Shae's reaction.

I don't think the timing of my post is really a problem. If I remember correctly, it is already early evening for the Fellowship. But I will wait to post in case you want to edit yours.

Folwren

08-25-2006, 05:14 PM

I am back and I am sooooooo sorry. There was no inernet access where we were, as you probably noticed. I thought for sure that my brother had inernet, but evidently he only checks his online stuff when he's on campus, as sad thing for me, because we didn't go to campus long enough to sit down and do anything.

But, be that as it may, I am back, and early, at that, so I'll have to make due. I will read everything and will try very hard to start writing posts by Sunday.

-- Folwren

piosenniel

08-26-2006, 01:48 AM

Hey Child!

SAVE filled . . .

Looking forward to your post :)

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

I'll be gone from Aug 30 - Sep 3; camping with no internet access.

Folwren

08-26-2006, 10:52 AM

Um...Pio....you don't really mean August 30th - November 3rd, do you? That's two months. Previous post edited ~*~ Pio

Alright, I am relieved to see that the game has not progressed as much as I was imagining while I was gone. . .there were nights when I laid awake thinking 'Golly . . . I'm going to be so far behind.' But I was wrong.

Tevildo is gone, I see. I think I'll try to post two posts later on today. One for Athwen and another for a quick living-through-the-day post for the two captives. At least, I will for Kwell. Azhar, from what I understand, is not going to be experiencing much. Tevildo said nothing about my carrying his character, so I really don't know what he had in mind for her.

-- Folwren

Thinlómien

08-27-2006, 03:20 AM

I'm here to say that I'm alive and still interested in this game and in playing with you guys. I'm hopefully joining this game soon. How soon, it depends on two things: when I will be able to get a stable and working net access and when I have read through the RPG well enough and made my character.

Folwren

08-27-2006, 08:07 PM

I had almost finished a post today but didn't quite make it, so I had to stick up a save. I will be filling it tomorrow morning, hopefully early.

As for a post for Athwen. . .I can't think of a thing to write without consulting Tevildo first, so I'm going to have to wait for his return.

-- Folwren

Brinniel

08-27-2006, 10:35 PM

Umm...to help keep this RPG moving, I think I'll finally put up Shae's post in the other thread (after all, I did write it some time ago).

If you plan to edit your post, Durelin, just let me know. :)

Durelin

08-28-2006, 06:45 AM

Sorry everyone! I've been painting and doing summer schoolwork for the past 4 or 5 days. I'm all finished, though. Well, until I get more work (luckily that shouldn't be for a few more days, and then it shouldn't be heavy work)...

Brinniel - I don't think I'll edit my post. Jumping to the evening works well enough.

Hello, Lommy! I'm so glad you will still be able to join us! Take your time reading through the game; and I do hope you find yourself in a better situation when it comes to net access.

Child of the 7th Age

08-28-2006, 09:22 AM

Just got back. Will be reading through things and trying to post later tonight. :)

Lommy - we are glad you'll be joining us!

Hilde Bracegirdle

08-28-2006, 10:13 AM

I am also back among the living, so to speak. Sorry to have been dormant so long.

Durelin are you planning to write for Vror soon, or shall I get something on board from the hobbit? A post from Carl is long over due, I know, but I didn't want to write if you are already in the middle of a post. I apologize for the confusion and delay of the past few weeks.

Folwren

08-28-2006, 12:38 PM

Save filled. Sorry about it being later than I expected. School started today, you see.

Hilde Bracegirdle

08-28-2006, 01:59 PM

Best wishes for a good school year, one and all, students and parents, educators and innocent bystanders alike!

Durelin

08-28-2006, 03:57 PM

I should have written a post for Vror a long time ago, but I haven't even started on one yet. So if you'd rather write one for Carl, Hilde, that would be quite fine with me. I'm so glad everything's alright again, and I do hope they stay that way.

If you do wish to and are able to write a post, I'll take the opportunity to post to keep something interesting going on in the slave camp before I get my first week's assignment for calculus. ;)

Hilde Bracegirdle

08-28-2006, 06:54 PM

Thanks, Durelin, I am off to put up a save for Carl so that the action (or interaction) with the fellowship can continue on.

Child of the 7th Age

08-29-2006, 01:55 PM

I am back from my trip with a bang.

The Dwarf and Hobbit had better get digging..... :D

piosenniel

08-29-2006, 02:15 PM

Child

I'll fill in my SAVE after work, most likely. Then tomorrow I'm away to the waters and the wild for 5 days.

Please carry Rôg along as needed. :)

~*~ Pio

Durelin

08-29-2006, 03:31 PM

Nogrod - Well, Hadith's in for it. ;) Please let me know if anything about my post needs to be changed.

I'm pondering putting up a "save" for a post for Vror, just in case. I'll probably hold off until later this evening, though, if I do.

Vror next...then Khamir, with the full realization the Shae is gone now! :D

The Dwarf and Hobbit had better get digging.....

I'm sure the Dwarf will have something to say to the crazy old man playing with fire when this is all over! ;) Absolutely loved your post!

Tevildo

08-29-2006, 11:52 PM

Glad to be back and will try to get up a post for one of my characters shortly.

Child of the 7th Age

08-30-2006, 01:53 AM

Pio,

Best of luck in the waters and the wild! Aiwendil will attempt to keep Rôg out of mischief during your absence. I look forward to reading your post.

Child

piosenniel

08-30-2006, 03:27 AM

Save filled ;)

See you Sunday . . .

~*~ Pio

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-01-2006, 01:15 PM

The save for Carl has been filled.

Once again, apologies for my tardiness, and for the cavalier treatment of the physics of light! As always, if any changes are needed, please let me know.

Brinniel

09-01-2006, 01:31 PM

Just an FYI, I'm leaving for college tomorrow and though I will have internet access starting Sunday afternoon, I'm not sure how often I'll be able to get on the computer next week. They like to keep us pretty busy during orientation week. :rolleyes:

Anyways, if I have time, I'll try to write a post on Shae's encounter with a rider tonight. I need to get her a bit closer to the slaver camp so she won't miss witnessing the rescue....

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-03-2006, 05:32 AM

I have changed Carl's post a bit, as it has been pointed out to me that the torch mentioned in Kwell's post is now above ground shining down into the pit. So now when Carl thought he saw a light, it was in reality the reflection of his own torch that he saw.

Sorry about that, but now we are in better accord with physics as well! :)

Tevildo

09-03-2006, 12:53 PM

Save filled. It appears there has been a great explosion and a show of fire and light in the sky. :D

Firefoot

09-03-2006, 01:52 PM

My save is filled as well.

Durelin

09-03-2006, 04:34 PM

I posted as Khamir, and just wanted to clarify a couple of things:

First, I left the post rather open. Somehow and at some point in the evening, Khamir and Beloan announce to everyone about the plans, which of course will never come to fruition - but, it means the slave camp will be a little more prepared when the slavers all of a sudden come to get them!

To Nogrod in particular - I left it open in particular for Adnan and Hadith's conversation, as the announcement and my entire post could occur after their conversation is over, or, Khamir and Beloan start to pass the word around and it only reaches Hadith and the two after their conversation is over, or at least, over to us. :D

I also apologize. That should have been a post for Vror, but, I found myself traveling today, and though I printed out your post, Hilde, my printer messed it up and made numerous parts of it completely unreadable. I'll be working on a post for him tomorrow, though, hopefully. I don't have too much homework, at least that I can recall atm....

Child of the 7th Age

09-04-2006, 02:41 AM

My save is filled,

Vrór and Carl - I confess I have mercilessly used your characters, making your "hurried sloshing" through knee deep water responsible for the detection first by the owl and then by the guard. If this doesn't fit in with your understanding of the scene, please let me know and I will edit and come up with something else to attract the guards.

I am having a tough time understanding exactly how the hole, tunnel, and creek bank physically fit together. I am always bad visualizing things like this so please correct me if I have misrepresented something.

Dorran - it's your turn now. Use Lindir as needed. :D

Durelin

09-04-2006, 04:40 PM

Child - I think it works just fine! And makes things even more interesting. :D

My understanding of these things isn't that great as well (I am never that good at reading maps and having some sense of direction, much less being able to imagine a situation and have some sense of direction and positioning and the like), so I also ask that anyone who notices anything off in my post for Vrór just speak up. :)

I apologize for not having my save filled yet (especially since it has been up for at least 24 hours, I think). I felt that a post for Vrór was a little more pressing, but also did not want Hadith and Adnan's conversation to get lost in everything that is going on. I will start to work on a post for Adnan immediately, and will hopefully get it filled later this evening.

Edit:

Save filled!

And (I forgot to note this...) Hilde and Folwren - I am sorry for having Vrór interrupt things! Just let me know if it is a problem, and I can change and/or move my post accordingly.

Folwren

09-04-2006, 05:30 PM

No! Oh, no, it's absolutely fine that Vror interrupted things. . .Kwell wasn't getting very far anyway.

And would any of us, I wonder? All of a sudden, two little men come popping up out of the ground!! I think any one would be surprised! lol!

Just posted for Athwen. May or may not write another, short post of even more surprise for Kwell. Don't wait for me, though, Hilde, if you feel like writing a post first, go ahead. :)

-- Folwren

Undómë

09-05-2006, 02:55 AM

I filled in my SAVE, #159.

-------

Regin

I had Ungolt be with the 2 sisters and used her only a little. Let me know if an edit is necessary.

-------

Pio

I've had one of the sisters, Mazhg, watch the cat. You can do with that what you will. :)

piosenniel

09-05-2006, 03:11 AM

:)

Will see what I can do!

~*~ Pio

Nogrod

09-05-2006, 03:01 PM

To Nogrod in particular - I left it open in particular for Adnan and Hadith's conversation, as the announcement and my entire post could occur after their conversation is over, or, Khamir and Beloan start to pass the word around and it only reaches Hadith and the two after their conversation is over, or at least, over to us. :DI guess it's best the word reaches Hadith and Adnan only after their discussion. I might try to wrap that discussion up with a short post tomorrow or the day after - the discussion might even end with the word coming to them? Or would you like to continue it after they hear the news? That's possible also, I think...

------
And sorry all you in the fellowship itself! (I'm kind of ashamed to confess this) I just haven't had time to dive in to your adventure so far, a couple of occasional posts not included. In the beginnig I thought that I would read them conveniently just before the different parties meet up. Today I thought of looking... and there surely is a lot of it! I'll update myself on it in the days to come to be at the state of things as a co-writer when the meeting actually happens (my characters surely will be totally ignorant of their personalities, as they need be :) )!

Durelin

09-05-2006, 03:35 PM

I guess it's best the word reaches Hadith and Adnan only after their discussion. I might try to wrap that discussion up with a short post tomorrow or the day after - the discussion might even end with the word coming to them? Or would you like to continue it after they hear the news? That's possible also, I think...

I did my best to leave it open in my last post for Adnan (the one I filled the save with) for the conversation to continue, and for Adnan's getting up to leave being interrupted, either by Hadith or by Beloan/someone informing them of the decision.

Perhaps it should be a full on *announcement*? Perhaps Hadith and/or Adnan could be interrupted, hearing shouts, and they gather around with the others, while Khamir gives a (very) brief speech?

Who's up for the speech? I wouldn't mind writing another one. :D

Folwren

09-05-2006, 05:44 PM

And sorry all you in the fellowship itself! (I'm kind of ashamed to confess this) I just haven't had time to dive in to your adventure so far, a couple of occasional posts not included. In the beginnig I thought that I would read them conveniently just before the different parties meet up. Today I thought of looking... and there surely is a lot of it! I'll update myself on it in the days to come to be at the state of things as a co-writer when the meeting actually happens (my characters surely will be totally ignorant of their personalities, as they need be :) )!

Haha! Don't apologize. I haven't been reading more than half of the slave's posts. :) I glance over most of them, but don't read them all...not even close to read them. Sorry.

-- Folwren

Regin Hardhammer

09-06-2006, 09:24 AM

Well, I'm back. Kind of... I am trying to get my schedule under control.

I'm afriad I am worse than either of you because I haven't read any of the posts on either side of the story. I am going to try and catch up with the reading and then do a post.

It will be nice when the two sides of this story (I guess actually 3) come together.

- Regin

piosenniel

09-07-2006, 12:45 AM

;)

OK - Rôg has attempted to assist Lindir and Tevildo with his version of a rocky, rising fastball . . .

~*~ Pio

*taking her box of kleenex and going off to bed now . . .

Tevildo

09-07-2006, 01:53 AM

Thanks for the hand, Piosenniel! I hope you feel better.

Child - If you want any changes for Lindir, let me know.

Where or where is Dorran going? :D

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-07-2006, 11:03 AM

The save for Carl is filled in. Folwen, Tevildo & Durelin please let me know if I handled your characters alright. If not, I will amend.

Sorry that I have been mostly lurking about. Time is still tight, but I have managed to stay fairly current with the 3 groups. Names of characters are still a bit of a problem though! Certainly with the orcs! :D

Durelin

09-07-2006, 05:29 PM

No problems her at all, Hilde! :D

I have but one issue, because there are two ways I can think of going about this:

One, I can post for Vror with his suggestions for how to get all of them out successfully - in particular, how to get Azhar out. He'll have two suggestions: one that has Carl going through first, and waiting to help them on the other side; and the second that has Vror going first to help on the other side. I'll leave the post as that, and then you can have Carl decide which plan to go with.

Or, we can go ahead and decide which plan the two will go with before I post, and I can wrap things up with getting Vror, Carl, and the kiddies out of the pit.

What would you prefer? (I don't know how much time you have available for posting, so I definitely wanted to ask.)

And, of course, Carl can have his own plan...he has the start of one, at least. ;)

(And with 'plan,' I'm not talking about a detailed one. Basically I'm talking about Kwell and either Vror or Carl almost...maneuvering...Azhar out, with either the Dwarf or the Hobbit leading the way (since they know the way), and one on the other side to help hoist the girl out (and the others, hehe).)

Folwren

09-07-2006, 06:00 PM

There, I just placed a post.

Durelin, you can place what you were planning on posting for Vror pretty easily, I thinks, as he was going to suggest a way of escaping. Kwell's not very much convinced right now of any possible way out through the water. And I don't, either, to be honest. He voiced my thoughts exactly. An unconscience person breaths underwater and when someone breaths underwater, he dies. If we could somehow get her under and stop her nose and mouth, then possibly...just possibly she'd make it. But the opening is too small.

I'll be willing to hear your plans. :)

Gotta run.

-- Folwren

Durelin

09-07-2006, 06:04 PM

But the opening is too small.

Perhaps...I can't say I have any positive image of how big it is, unfortunately.

Is some underwater excavation work in order, then? :D

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-08-2006, 03:39 AM

My thought had been that the hole was sufficiently large enough to get the kids through, but small enough that a muscle bound slaver wouldn't fit easily. After all it is big enough for a hobbit with room to spare. ;) It is also not that long of a trip under water. Straight down then maybe 3 to 8 feet or so of rock to travel under. (Hilde pulls out her handy tape measure.)

As for the plan, I had imagined that Vror and his axe might go first, just incase some baddies made it into the cave from Lindir's side. Carl could get in the water to guide Azhar through while keeping her nose and mouth shut or maybe holding something over her face that would trap air. (Like how wet jeans do). Vror might need to pull on his ankles to help them out. Kwell could go last to help lower Azhar into the water, and also so that any guards peeking in might not notice the mischief. Or maybe because he doesn't trust them. But this all isn't the way it has to go, by any means. Just what I had pictured.

After she is out of the water though, is problematic to me. How will our three carry her? As a joint effort? :p Or is one strong enough to carry her on their own. I know Carl couldn't, and I do hope Kwell might decide to pitch in.

I also thought that the water bath might help rouse Azhar or cool the fever...or make her worse off. :eek: Tevildo, how do you think Azhar would react, once in the water?

But for posting. Durelin, I will have some time to write Saturday evening, but after that it will be back to 15 or 30 minutes here and there. I'm up for any senerio really, but might have to put in a save if my turn at bat comes up after tomorrow.

Got to run! Going to be late for work...eek.

Child of the 7th Age

09-08-2006, 07:29 AM

After she is out of the water though, is problematic to me. How will our three carry her? As a joint effort? Or is one strong enough to carry her on their own. I know Carl couldn't, and I do hope Kwell might decide to pitch in.

Remember that you have a good sized Elf waiting at the entrance to the tunnel. I really don't think it would be too much of a problem for Lindir to grab the girl, cradle her in his arms, and make his way across the plains. It will slow down the speed of their exit, however. There is another possibility. As I will post this morning, there are now a lot of horses running loose on the plains. It's conceivable that at least Lindir could do what Tevildo had Dorran do--- grab at least one of them and mount up. He could race off and head for the meeting point sooner since it's clear that Azhar needs medical help.

Getting out of the tunnel and and through the water is another matter, as my character can't get through the hole. ;)

Tevildo

09-08-2006, 08:53 AM

I think I have a solution no one could possibly argue with. :rolleyes: Just give me a few minutes and I will return....

EDIT....Post done. Azhar is up and kind of moving. Let's get out of the pit! :p You are welcome to use my character in your posts getting up to the surface. Azhar will be insistent she is "fine" but she is really pretty weak and wobbly, and is still burning up with fever. she will definitely need some help.

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-08-2006, 10:07 AM

Ho, ho! Problem solved!

Folwren

09-08-2006, 10:49 AM

Okay, Tevildo, good job. Her being awake solves a lot of the problem. The rest can be solved by the other three helping her. All she'll have to do is hold her breath and not panic as we push and pull her through the hole.

One thing that may be interesting in the story - Kwell and Azhar have probably never been submerged completely in water. I have heard of five year old kids (much less 12 or 13 or however old Azhar is) being terrified of baths, much less being put under water, under rock, in cold, unknown water. Is this going to be an issue? Do we want to ignore the fact that realistically, either one of them could be terrified to death, and just go over it without comment?

Whatever you all want.

Mom needs the phone, so I've got to run.

EDIT: Never mind. Azhar apparently has been swimming. Well, Kwell probably hasn't. But I don't know if it's quite in his character to be afraid of water. Though I can still see being scared of cold, dark water that goes underneath rock for a little way. . .

I'm not intending to put a post up yet, so Durelin or Hilde, please do write.

-- Folwren

Tevildo

09-08-2006, 12:06 PM

Azar really did get away with murder while she was a slave because of her privileged postion running errands for the guards. Yes, she does know how to swim. And wouldn't it be interesting if the weakened girl was more adept in the water than her somewhat frightened male companion? :D But that is up to Folwren.

Child of the 7th Age

09-08-2006, 01:10 PM

My earlier save is filled. Imak is having the men round up the horses and says he plans for them all to ride out tonight and tonight. In actuality, the slavers will have a much harder time herding in those animals. Imak will have to be content with mounting up a smaller group to head to the slavers' camp and have a look at things and then decide to attack the next night (as we already decided).

For the moment, however, the fellowship has a more immediate problem. Imak and three slavers are on foot running towards the slave pit. You guys had better get a move on. I do expect a brief skirmish as you get away, unless someone objects. :eek:

Does anyone have something that could be used as a weapon in a pinch, maybe from those tools you're carrying? Perhaps Kwell will want to fight back against the brutes who've captured him?

BTW, Aiwendil has returned and will be waiting with Lindir and Rôg at the mouth of the tunnel. You're welcome to mention him when you emerge from the pit. I just didn't want to do a separate post.

Durelin

09-08-2006, 01:33 PM

Ah, thank you, Telvido. :D

And now I'll get to posting...

Edit:

Posted! Please of course let me know if anything needs to be changed. I do hope it is alright that I had Lindir peeking in to see what on Middle-earth was taking them so long, Child. :D

And sorry I didn't answer your question yet...

I guess Carl is stuck trying to get out of there before Imak and his gang show up at the pit. And then I suppose they will all run into the baddies on the escape out of the tunnel with Lindir?

Vror had to take his axe with him, and he has his hammer, as well. Surely one of them has a small pick axe type deal (chisel, maybe, but that seems the wrong word...), so I think Carl and Kwell could be armed at least, probably Azhar too.

Regin Hardhammer

09-09-2006, 10:59 AM

My save is filled. I am sorry it is so looong. Lindir had better watch out!

Durelin

09-10-2006, 12:03 PM

Posted again...Vrór's nerves have been stretched a little too far...the inevitable battle will be difficult for him.

I didn't plunge into it yet...thought someone else might like to. :D

I hope everything in my post is alright. Let me know if anything needs to be changed, and/or if I should add to it and bring them into the battle.

I also hope that everyone can realistically use their 'weapons.' :p

Folwren

09-10-2006, 02:26 PM

What exactly is happening next? Are we going to be sticking around the embankment there or make as quick a dash as we can back to the horses to ride off?

-- Folwren

Nogrod

09-10-2006, 03:39 PM

I have basically written an answer to both Hadith (to Adnan) and Gwerr (to Ishkur). I just have to get to sleep about now... I will try to send my posts in 24 hours to both of them...

Durelin

09-10-2006, 06:40 PM

What exactly is happening next? Are we going to be sticking around the embankment there or make as quick a dash as we can back to the horses to ride off?

The latter...though in our attempt to make a break for it, I believe Imak and the men with him will catch up to us, or we will run into them.

Basically the plan was go in, get the kids, and get out...like all good rescue plans. :D

Sorry for the confusion and lack of clarity!

And, of course, correct me if I have the plans all wrong, Child.

Brinniel

09-10-2006, 07:20 PM

Alright, save filled.

Let me know if I covered the situation okay, Tevildo.

Child of the 7th Age

09-11-2006, 09:54 AM

Basically the plan was go in, get the kids, and get out...like all good rescue plans.

Sounds good to me! I am definitely in favor of a quick dash.

Tevildo

09-11-2006, 10:41 AM

Looks fine! I've sent you a question or two in a pm. I don't plan to fill my save till late tonight. If I don't get an answer by then, I'll do the best I can and edit later as needed.

Tevildo

09-12-2006, 12:57 AM

Save filled....

Brinniel, feel free to use my character as needed to get the two of us back to where the fellowship is (unless you decide I should just crawl back by myself - :D ) and join in the fighting and the flight....

If you'd like me to edit anything, just let me know.

Yeah! We've at least joined up with one slave.

Brinniel

09-12-2006, 09:33 AM

Looks good.

I'm not sure if I'll be able to fill the save tonight, as I have my first four page paper due tomorrow. :eek: But I will try my hardest to get it filled within a day or two.

Regin Hardhammer

09-12-2006, 12:43 PM

Piosenniel, Undomie

My post is up for Ungolt. If you see any problems, let me know.

- Regin

Folwren

09-12-2006, 03:10 PM

As soon as Piosenniel and Brinniel have filled in their saves, I'll write a post for Kwell.

Also, Tevildo, is Dorran really going to be able to fight?

-- Folwren

Nogrod

09-12-2006, 03:32 PM

Regin - I have answered your post somewhat along the lines we discussed. Hopefully in a way that is okay with you. Sorry it took more time I initially thought it would take.

And slave-escapees in the camp. Just too full days right now to be active enough... I try to get my "Hadith answers Adnan" -post up asap (possibly in just an hour, or then tomorrow), but don't wait for it if you wish to move things forwards.

Sorry.

piosenniel

09-13-2006, 03:15 AM

SAVE filled - #176.

Tevildo

09-13-2006, 11:36 AM

Also, Tevildo, is Dorran really going to be able to fight?

Probably not. But he feels compelled by duty to try. There is a personal reason why he is so anxious to get back. If he does not do so, Athwen may be a bit worried when the other members of the fellowship show up minus Dorran. :D

Folwren

09-13-2006, 11:51 AM

She'll be worried anyway, especially if she learns that he went back to try to fight after getting hurt!

-- Folwren

Child of the 7th Age

09-13-2006, 12:13 PM

I've put up a save. I wanted to make sure that I posted Aiwendil's response to Rôg before the actual flight and/or fighting started. If any other poster wants to go ahead and take that next step describing the flight and/or the fighting in a new post, you don't have to wait for my save to be filled in.

If no one posts before I fill my own save, I will push the action forward a little further.....but not too far since I know we're still waiting for Tevildo and Shae.

That's probably as clear as mud!

Brinniel

09-13-2006, 08:16 PM

Save filled.

Just let me know if everything looks all right, Tevildo.

Child of the 7th Age

09-14-2006, 02:23 AM

In order to get us started, I've used several of your characters. Lindir has also made some decisions as to what we're going to do. Please let me know if anything is a problem.

Tevildo - please feel free to encounter us shortly in any form or fashion you choose.

Tevildo

09-14-2006, 08:04 AM

Brinniel -

I've am sending you a pm. Please let me know what group you want Shae to be with and also whether he can borrow the horse.

Your earlier post was just right.

Tevildo

EDIT AND CORRECTION: Your message box is full :(

Folwren

09-14-2006, 09:33 AM

Hm....would Kwell know the difference between a hobbit and a dwarf? They're both shorter than men and he probably hasn't seen or heard of either one before.

Anyhow, I'm about to fill my save in which he clumps them both into the class of hobbits. (Carl told him he was a hobbit in pit.)

-- Folwren

Nogrod

09-14-2006, 02:38 PM

Oh this RL is killling me!
(And being in a WW-game during the little sparetime awake one has doesn't help RPGing either... :) )

Durelin: I've posted for Hadith. I haven't mentioned the information about Khamir's decision in the post, so the lads are still not knowledgeable of the situation. So it's up to you now.

Regin: I will be away during the weekend, but will try to post something asap. as I return. If you wish, please continue. Gwerr would accept Ishkur's offer and at least show a good comradeship... maybe he has it too, but it's on a somewhat shallow ground still.

Durelin

09-14-2006, 06:22 PM

No worries, Nogrod! I do hope 'RL' gets less crazy for you, though.

I just posted...twice, shamelessly. Adnan's response, and I went ahead and had Khamir address the entire camp. Perhaps it seems a bit far-fetched that he could just address them all at once like that, but I doubt they are very spread out - I rather expect it's quite the opposite!

At any rate, Khamir is in for a rude awakening when the Fellowship shows up, stealing all his glory. ;)

Hopefully I can get a post for Vrór up tomorrow, perhaps having a word or two to say to Kwell. :p

Unfortunately, I will have a busy weekend, but that shouldn't be a problem...

Folwren

09-14-2006, 07:09 PM

Hopefully I can get a post for Vrór up tomorrow, perhaps having a word or two to say to Kwell. :p

Ha. Can't wait. :p

-- Foley

Tevildo

09-16-2006, 10:02 AM

Save filled. Child and Brinniel - As we discussed, I used your characters. Please let me know if I should edit anything. I wasn't sure about the Elf thing and Shae. If that's wrong, let me know.

Group out on the plain....whenever the next person posts from that group, you can assume that Dorran has joined you and that Azhar is now on horseback (she's my character too).

It looks as if the other group is hiding in the tunnel entrance just under that blanket...

piosenniel

09-16-2006, 10:42 AM

Would you mind if Azhar rode with Rôg? Or does she need to be on a separate mount?

~*~ Pio

Tevildo

09-16-2006, 01:32 PM

Riding together is fine. You're welcome to use Azhar in your post.

Folwren

09-16-2006, 06:03 PM

Save filled. Child and Brinniel - As we discussed, I used your characters. Please let me know if I should edit anything. I wasn't sure about the Elf thing and Shae. If that's wrong, let me know.

Erm. . . I don't have much say, considering I don't own either of those characters, but I didn't think that it fit very well. It seems Lindir would be pretty quick to notice that she was a woman, for one thing, and that she didn't look very much like the other slavers for another. When Dorran mistook her for a bad person, that was understandable, considering his position, but Lindir's putting a knife to her back doesn't make sense.

Also, why, in both your posts, does it seem that Shae has no clothing on? It's very confusing and I'm bothered if that's the case. Very, extremely bothered. I'm sorry to be the one to complain, but it seems mighty uncomfortable to me. If she is clothingless, yick, if she is not, Tevildo, sorry, you're posts make it unclear to me.

To finish, if this post seems short tempered, it's because I am short tempered just now and very tired.

My apologies in advance.

-- Folwren

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-16-2006, 06:18 PM

I filled in Carl's save. Hope that it passes muster, as I am feeling a bit scatterbrained. I did mention Shae's clothes if it is any help, Folwren! ;) But I do apologize for not giving time for Shae and Kwell to talk immediately. Hopeful they can now at their leisure.

Brinniel

09-16-2006, 09:41 PM

Also, why, in both your posts, does it seem that Shae has no clothing on? It's very confusing and I'm bothered if that's the case. Very, extremely bothered. I'm sorry to be the one to complain, but it seems mighty uncomfortable to me. If she is clothingless, yick, if she is not, Tevildo, sorry, you're posts make it unclear to me.
Shae is wearing clothing, though they do appear more as tattered rags. Did you get the indication that she wasn't by Tevildo's mention of the brand on her ankle? Shae doesn't have shoes- just rags on her feet. Basically her legs are bare from the knee down. So much to one's joy/disappointment ;), Shae is definitely not naked- she'd probably attract too much attention if she were. :eek:

It seems Lindir would be pretty quick to notice that she was a woman, for one thing, and that she didn't look very much like the other slavers for another. When Dorran mistook her for a bad person, that was understandable, considering his position, but Lindir's putting a knife to her back doesn't make sense.
You know, I did like the whole mistaken identity idea, but you do have a point. As an elf, Lindir would most likely not mistaken Shae for a slaver. Perhaps if the roles were to be reversed and Shae mistakes Lindir for the enemy. After all, being blind in one eye, Shae's vision is fairly poor, plus she has never seen an elf before.

Just a thought. It's all up to Tevildo to make the changes....

piosenniel

09-17-2006, 12:36 AM

Folwren and Tevildo - please check your PM's.

Thanks!

~*~ Pio

Child of the 7th Age

09-17-2006, 02:26 AM

Since Lindir is my character, it may help if I share some information. Tevildo and I communicated before the post, and it's essentially what we discussed.

To make things more believable, we felt Shae should approach on horseback. That way, Lindir wouldn't see her full profile, but merely glimpse an unknown rider hunched down on the back of a horse. Lindir would have sprung up and dragged Shae off from the rear and then held the dagger to her throat. Shae probably cried out as she was wrestled down. When Dorran arrived, the Elf's knife had just touched her throat. Had he come an instant later, Lindir would likely have recognized his own mistake and released her.

I imagined Lindir waiting in the tunnel just beneath that blanket. (This wasn't spelled out in the actual post.). That way, his view of anyone approaching would be limited. Still, I don't think the tunnel is critical. Lindir is just plain edgy--worrying about the prisoners, worrying about Aiwendil's group, worrying Dorran has been injured or killed--and more likely to make a mistake. I envisioned Shae in a floppy tunic and pants, clothes that would mask the fact she was a woman. Interesting that we bring away so many different images from a single story!

I've used Lindir several times. His distinguishing characteristic is that he is an Elf who does make mistakes. He's not malicious but has made some boners in his long life. I've done this intentionally--I cannot stand 'perfect' Elves. If you think it would clarify things, I can interject a short post of my own somewhere inside Tevildo's, explaining the situation from the Elf's perspective up to the point he tackles the rider. Just let me know....

Folwren

09-17-2006, 09:44 AM

I am sorry. Apparently I've made a mistake in my reading of the posts. . .

Thanks for clearing up my mistake, Brinniel.

Don't worry about making a short post of your own to go into Tevildo's, Child. I'm fine. :)

Once more, I'm very sorry.

-- Folwren

Brinniel

09-17-2006, 11:25 AM

Thanks for clearing that all up, Child. The whole situation does make better sense now. :)

Tevildo

09-17-2006, 12:06 PM

Folwren,

That's alright. Mistakes happen. And thanks to everyone who helped clear this up.

Tevildo

piosenniel

09-18-2006, 01:58 AM

My post is filled.

I've put in a hook for Azhar at the end of it. Let me know, Tevildo, if any edit is needed.

~*~ Pio

Folwren

09-18-2006, 08:25 AM

I will hopefully fill my save this morning or early this afternoon.

Tevildo, I wanted to know, is Dorran going to be arriving just after the three who just arrived? In what sort of condition is he? That is, is he on the verge of fainting, or is he pretty steady? Mostly, what should be Athwen's first idea when she sees Dorran? Also, where is the cut and how deep is it?

Azhar still has a fever, doesn't she?

Pio, Rog's wound has quit bleeding and he's still walking and has ability to speed up and catch up the others. He doesn't seem to be about to topple over. How long and deep is it? Is it just a painful flesh wound that will heal with little mending? The arrow just skimmed his ribs, right?

piosenniel

09-18-2006, 10:01 AM

Folwren

09-18-2006, 10:23 AM

Folwren

The arrow sliced a long, shallow, ragged gash along his right flank. Rôg's tunic is all stuck into it by the dried blood. His left shoulder is just massively bruised and painful from the whack on it by the flat of one of the slavers' swords.

Hm. I know where a horse's flank is, and I would assume a man's would be between the rib cage and hip bone, correct? That would hurt. I'll fix you up (that is, Athwen will fix Rog up. . .).

Dorran finally makes it back to the knoll, grimacing through clenched teeth but trying to act as if nothing is the matter.

I have to chuckle. That's just like a man. :p

-- Foley

Tevildo

09-18-2006, 10:25 AM

Folwern -

Dorran will be meeting everyone at the knoll as soon as I manage to fill my save, probably tonight. His main problem is that cracked rib, which is hurting. The gash on his head is not large, and he has an assortment of bumps and bruises. He's likely to grit his teeth and tell his wife that he is just fine! He's not badly hurt but needs to be reminded to slow down and take a breather.

Azhar is another matter. She is worse than she looks--burning up with fever. The origin of this fever should not be known to Athwen, please.

You're welcome to use my characters to get things started. If you fill your save before mine, I'll merely respond to what Athwen said or did.

EDIT: P.S. We crossposted, and, yes, Dorran has a bit of male pride as well as not wanting his wife to worry.

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

Pio -

I'd very much like to have Azhar briefly say something to Rôg. Could I post it on the discussion thread and you could slot it into your box?

Folwren

09-18-2006, 10:31 AM

Azhar is another matter. She is worse than she looks--burning up with fever. The origin of this fever should not be known to Athwen, please.

Don't fear about that. :) She'll probably think Azhar's been pushed to the point of physical break down and exhaustion. Besides, I hardly know the origin of the fever myself. I know nothing about tending fevers. . .I need to start looking stuff up in Mom's natural healing book.

-- Folwren

Durelin

09-18-2006, 12:58 PM

Ah, apologies to everyone. I had an important college visit on Saturday, and then yesterday the cable was out...was out for most of today, as well. Right now I'm at home only because of a severe sinus infection (I'm one of those chronic people, but every so often it flares up really bad...).

At any rate, I apologize that I did not follow through on getting Vror in on the action. I will as soon as all those saves are filled in and I figure out how everything's playing out. :D

piosenniel

09-18-2006, 02:12 PM

Tevildo

Be happy to place the post for Azhar. :)

~*~ Pio

Folwren

09-18-2006, 06:03 PM

My save is only half filled. Well, more than half, but uncompleted. I was interrupted at work while I was typing it and it was time to leave before I could finish. . .

It's time for dinner now. Spent the last two hours with my horse. I'll finish writing the post later this evening. Hope no one minds a terrible amount. . .

EDIT: I am sorry. Still didn't get around to it. Tevildo, go ahead and fill in your save. I will work with what you write. I can do that, really, and I should have had my save filled long ago. I've really written as far as I was planning to before having Dorran be spotted riding towards camp, so just write what you want. Before Dorran comes, I think I was planning on having Athwen ask where the others were, what had happened, and if anyone was hurt, at which time, she would have heard that Rog was wounded and maybe asked him what was wrong, but then Dorran would come trotting in, so. . .just do whatever. And, goodnight.

-- Folwren

Tevildo

09-18-2006, 11:40 PM

Pio

Could you paste this up as we discussed? Am I right about Rôg's lack of weapons? I believe your profile mentioned this. If not, let me know.

Thank you.

_______________________

POST PLACED ~*~ PIO --you're right, Rôg bears no weapons, except for a small knife for sharpening quills

Tevildo's post - Azhar

When Azhar tried to remember where she had heard Rôg's voice, she could only dredge up stray images of flashing lights and roaring animals. Since these made no sense, she tried to push all thoughts aside except the need to place one foot in front of the other and push on as quickly as possible to the chosen meeting point. Struggling for a while to match Rôg's longer stride, she couldn't help but think how out of place the man seemed heading across the plains of Mordor. Rôg's face and demeanor were gentle. He did not wear a sword or long-bladed dagger around his waist. The elder who now led their group at least carried a hefty wooden staff that could double as a weapon. But for some reason that Azhar could only guess, Rôg preferred to do without. No freeman of Mordor, scoundrel or honest man, would set out on a long journey without picking out a sturdy sword and battle knife. Azhar remembered how the freed slaves, almost all the men and many of the women, had fought over the privilege of carrying a sword. Then how could she explain Rôg?

This was not the only question troubling Azhar. Despite the pounding of her head and the hot flush spreading across her cheeks, the girl was struggling to understand the actions of her rescuers. Why had Rôg and his other companions come all this way to risk their lives for the sake of slaves they didn't even know? There was nothing in Azhar's past to help her understand this. Over the years, she had tried her best to manipulate the guards, wrangling or negotiating small treats and special favors. The thought of doing something for someone purely out of a caring heart was foreign to her. Perhaps the closest she had come to it was her sympathy for Kwell in the pit.

The girl glanced over at Rôg, wondering if there would be time to ask her questions. But before Azhar could speak, she glimpsed a grassy knoll just ahead and a woman beckoning them all forward. Reluctantly, Azhar slipped away from Rôg. Her questions would need to wait. It was probably a good thing. The fever was dragging her down both in body and spirit. Unsteadily, she grabbed onto Aiwendil's arm for support, shivering slightly.

Tevildo

09-19-2006, 10:49 AM

I filled in Dorran's save. Folwren -- I don't think it will interfere with finishing your post. I just have Dorran sitting on the ground watching you work with patients. But if you do need an edit, let me know.....

Folwren

09-19-2006, 11:04 AM

No edits necessary. I'm nearly finished with mine. :)

EDIT: K, save filled, mostly. I had one question left for Pio. I don't know if I should have the wound bandaged or not. Since it's not dangerous, now that the bleeding has stopped and it's been cleaned and dressed (probably with some sort of herb to take care of bleeding and infection, like plankton, and oil or honey), I was thinking it may be a good idea to save the limited bandages for more dangerous things. What do you think?

-- Folwren

piosenniel

09-19-2006, 02:44 PM

Folwren

I think your cleansing of the wound and some unguent/salve will be enough.

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

Tevildo

I'm going to put up a SAVE. If you don't mind, Rôg will sit down by Azhar and speak with her. If it's OK, I'll mention she's dropped into a light, troubled sleep. Wil that be alright?

~*~ Pio

Tevildo

09-20-2006, 01:45 AM

Pio,

Thank you. That sounds fine. Use her as needed in your post.

Tevildo

Regin Hardhammer

09-21-2006, 12:39 AM

Nogrod,

I kept hoping you'd get back to post. But now I've gone ahead and filled in the save. I've used Gwerr a lot. Let me know if anything should be changed.

- Regin

Durelin

09-21-2006, 02:40 PM

I have posted, and I do hope I have assessed the situation correctly.

Brinniel - I used Shae a little bit, so let me know if I handled her properly.

I got everyone at least started on the way back to the camp, and I do hope that's alright. Seems we've avoided true confrontation with the slavers at this point, but...that will not last for long. :D

Please, anyone let me know if I need to change anything about my post.

Nogrod

09-21-2006, 02:51 PM

Regin: Everything's alright, but one little detail... I think Gwerr is more than happy with the next night's raid - if the slavers actually will be away, that's the thing he is doubting. So the next one in the end:
"Alright, Ishkur. You've had your fun. Let's get out of here and back to camp. Then we can talk about tomorrow's raid. I'm willing to consider it if the slavers really do clear out."Would more likely be:
"Alright, Ishkur. You've had your fun. Let's get out of here and back to camp. Then we can talk about tomorrow's raid. I'm all in if the slavers really do clear out."

I'll try to come up with a post in a couple of days (sorry, but RL seems pretty hectic now with the national examinations underway)

Slave escapees: I have basically written a post (by hand) where Hadith makes a speech - not the least to his own surprise. He will call for all to be free men and so not to blame Khamir, but not either doing what he is planning right now by just obeying. Hadith will stay at the camp and defend it, if that comes about... I left a save for it to be filled, soon enough, I hope. But just for you to go on if you will go forwards...

piosenniel

09-21-2006, 03:59 PM

Tevildo

My SAVE is filled in. I'll leave it up to you how much or how little Azhar heard of Rôg's story. :)

~*~ Pio

Durelin

09-21-2006, 06:47 PM

Slave escapees: I have basically written a post (by hand) where Hadith makes a speech - not the least to his own surprise. He will call for all to be free men and so not to blame Khamir, but not either doing what he is planning right now by just obeying. Hadith will stay at the camp and defend it, if that comes about... I left a save for it to be filled, soon enough, I hope. But just for you to go on if you will go forwards...

Ooo! I look forward to it with much excitement! I'm sure Khamir could use someone 'backing him up,' or at least, keeping him from getting lynched. Plus, there needs to be someone better at speech-making than him in that crew. :D

Brinniel

09-21-2006, 11:51 PM

Brinniel - I used Shae a little bit, so let me know if I handled her properly.
Looks all good to me. :)

I've added a bit of a twist. Shae has lost her brother's necklace- a devastating factor to her. But this necklace could be useful. Perhaps the slavers will find it, or maybe the orcs. If Shae lost it closer to her own camp, perhaps Khamir will find it and think something happened to her. I don't know. Anyone who wants to include this item in their post is welcome...

Folwren- When Shae reaches the camp, perhaps Athwen could take notice and tend to Shae's wounded hands. Now that her bandages are gone, the wounds and blood will be quite obvious.

Also, for all those whose characters I used, let me know if you disapprove of something.

Tevildo

09-22-2006, 01:00 AM

Folwren,

I've sent you the post we discussed. Feel free to adjust and add as needed.

Pio -

Yes, I will have her remember some things in a rather jumbled way. I'll put it in a new box.....she may not wake up for a bit.

Folwren

09-22-2006, 06:51 AM

Folwren- When Shae reaches the camp, perhaps Athwen could take notice and tend to Shae's wounded hands. Now that her bandages are gone, the wounds and blood will be quite obvious.

Okay. Sounds good to me. If people shook hands in ME when they met, that'd be a really easy way to find out, but I don't know if they do. . .I mean, I can see Hobbits doing it, but I'm not sure if the Rohirrim did.

--Folwren

Folwren

09-22-2006, 08:41 AM

Save filled! The post was written by both Tevildo and myself. :) (Tell me if anything is wrong with what I did after you worked it, Tevildo.)

-- Folwren

Child of the 7th Age

09-22-2006, 10:02 AM

Hilde, Durelin, Brinniel, ...

If no one objects I will do a short "generic" post that has Lindir lead our small band westward. The post will end as we approach the knoll where Athwen and the others are waiting. I'll wait till Saturday evening to put this up. That way, if anyone has anything they want to say or do before we arrive at the knoll, they'll have a chance to post first or at least reserve a save.

As it stands now, there will be no immediate attacks from Imak per his last post. (Given the state of several of our members, that is a lucky thing!) Lindir will be fairly certain that there won't be a mass attack but will still wonder if there might be a slaver or two taking pot shots at us. Fortunately, that will not happen.

Everyone (except the orcs who are patiently waiting)

Once everyone gets to the knoll, I am assuming we'll move out fairly quickly and make our way uneventfully to the slave camp. We haven't really talked or planned for what will happen once we get there. I am thinking we might want to talk about this a little on the discussion thread (not that everything has to be pinned down). Even if we don't spell out the specifics, it's nice to get an idea of the general outline of things.

Just a few random thoughts/questions......

What kind of reception will the fellowship get from the slaves and the leaders of the slaves---(hey, guys, give us a warning if you're going to drum us out of camp.)
Would there be any slaves arguing that the group should take off the next day without fighting (despite what Imak thinks) since the prisoners have been released, or would this not even come up in discussion?
Assuming we fight, what do we do to protect the children and those women who do not feel comfortable wielding a sword? Do we just find them a good shelter, or is there a role for "noncombattants"?
Presumably we'll have to set up some kind of "planning body" to decide on and carry out the various traps and decoys we talked about earlier...., and,
Who is well enough to fight and who isn't? Both physically and mentally! I have my doubts about some of those slaves. :p

Anyone else with thoughts on this or additional questions/ideas?

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

Secondly, I just wanted to tell everyone how much I've enjoyed the quality of writing in this game. Some really great stuff! I am looking forward (maybe that's the wrong word?) to pulling the slaves and fellowship together and then bringing the wild card--the orcs--into the equation.

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-22-2006, 10:20 AM

No objections here.

Durelin

09-22-2006, 01:54 PM

What kind of reception will the fellowship get from the slaves and the leaders of the slaves---(hey, guys, give us a warning if you're going to drum us out of camp.)

Well, I imagine Shae will approach first, and Khamir will be quick to receive her, having been worried about her. Then, what follows... Well, Khamir will be shocked. How the rest of the slave camp reacts...well, some will be thankful for the Fellowship, others I imagine will be insulted by the 'help.' Particularly since they are so used to being without it. I don't see the slaves getting together enough to actually be *against* the Fellowship, so I think they will be as technically accepted as they can be.

Really, I think the majority of the slaves will readily accept the Fellowship. I imagine a few will be bitter, but mostly I imagine they will readily accept an outside force as more of a 'leader' (though they would never consciously admit that they need to be or want to be lead by anyone or anything), in place of any leading Khamir has done.

Would there be any slaves arguing that the group should take off the next day without fighting (despite what Imak thinks) since the prisoners have been released, or would this not even come up in discussion?

If the Fellowship arrives late in the night, I don't know if things will be 'settled' enough before the next day for anyone to even bring up moving on... I'm not imagining there being enough time. Either there will be some rejoicing, or there will be utter confusion.

Or...the Fellowship can be readily accepted because they are the rescuers of the children, and are those who were promised by the King of Gondor (and the slaves are ready to accept aid from Gondor), and someone(s) calls for revenge on the slavers. Or, someone could be a voice of 'common sense,' either in the Fellowship or one of the slaves, saying that there's no sense in them running off if those slavers are just going to be on their tails the rest of the way...wherever. (I can see Vror doing that, if need be. ;) )

Assuming we fight, what do we do to protect the children and those women who do not feel comfortable wielding a sword? Do we just find them a good shelter, or is there a role for "noncombattants"?

Perhaps the "noncombattants" can play a role in those traps and such that were discussed?

I'll have to think about those questions, and the others, a little bit more...

Also, I'd like to second that remark on the quality of this game. It's really marvellous! I can't believe everyone's been so into character development and interaction that we've gone five pages already without getting all the groups together that we initially intended to have together near the start of the game! It's astounding...in a wonderful way, at least in my opinion. :D

Nogrod

09-22-2006, 05:06 PM

I'm bent to the direction of the ex-slaves greeting the fellowship as the saviours who will solve all their problems... That would be just natural. Surely some would grunt, though.

But at the same time it would leave open the question of the ex-slaves freedom in the first place: so just changing a bad lord to a good one - where is the freedom if you are under someone's orders anyhow, good or bad??

Looks very good indeed!

Firefoot

09-22-2006, 05:29 PM

Johari's going to be somewhere between neutral and opposed, I think. She certainly won't be welcoming them with open arms. :D

Undómë

09-22-2006, 06:21 PM

A quick question - can you give me an estimate of how many women and children are in the slave escapee party? What would be a good number to assume?

Brenna has been a slave for a long time - she will greet the fellowship with a misxture of fear and hope once she sees how they've rescued the two children.

I don't think she's at the place where she can consider what it means to be free, and so she would see being under the protection of/subject to a good lord/ruler/decision maker as being a right move for her.

Nogrod

09-22-2006, 06:31 PM

My save #199 is filled... at last.

A quick question - can you give me an estimate of how many women and children are in the slave escapee party? What would be a good number to assume?I think this was discussed in the planning phase already... So check from there, if no one remembers that out right.

Durelin

09-22-2006, 06:33 PM

A quick question - can you give me an estimate of how many women and children are in the slave escapee party? What would be a good number to assume?

Hmm... Well, should we assume that more men would have been able to escape, or more women and children? Perhaps more men were the 'force' in the escape, and so more likely to be killed or recaptured in the escape because they made sure the others could escape? Or perhaps more men escaped because they were 'stronger?' Or perhaps more men escaped because there are more male slaves working on the plantations? Or, vice versa (more women and/or children escaped for that reason).

I think anything can go. Perhaps we should say there are more women and children together than men, but men out number women?

We could say there are 37 women and children, and 23 men. Out of the women and children, 9 women and 7 children can and are willing to fight. Or something like that. Though I suppose it also depends what we determine 'children' are. What age makes a boy a man, a girl a woman? Perhaps as early as sixteen, considering??

I think I might be making this more difficult than it really is. :eek: :D

Nogrod

09-22-2006, 06:40 PM

Yeah. Is Adnan "a man"?

Or some others sharing his stature?

A mod-decision here would be worthwhile as we close the action / meeting...

Brinniel

09-22-2006, 11:55 PM

perhaps more men escaped because there are more male slaves working on the plantations?
Keeping in mind the patterns of the history of society in RL, I always thought that certain aspects of ME history would be similar. If I remember correctly, in real history the percentage of female slaves has always been much higher than males. Of course, you do have a point- it's more likely that the males were doing the most physical labor, working in the plantations.

Anyways, let me see if I can get to what I'm trying to say.... :rolleyes:

We could say there are 37 women and children, and 23 men. Out of the women and children, 9 women and 7 children can and are willing to fight.
I kind of have to disagree that there would be more women/children. Though there are more female slaves, few would be required to do the more physical tasks that the men must do. Most likely they'd do tasks that would fit the role of women- cooking, caring for children, etc (of course there are exceptions for the younger, stronger women such as Shae). Anyways, since their tasks are less exhausting, the women are probably more accepting of their position as slaves and less willing to risk their lives to escape. I would imagine very few children attempting escape. No mother would risk their child's life like that. All the children that have escaped are most likely orphans, who really don't have anyone to care for them, and they should be capable to escape on their own (even if barely). Though it is likely more men would die in the process of escape, I think there would be twice the amount of men than women escaping in the first place. And don't forget we're also including the fifteen experienced ex-slaves (14 men + Shae). My guess is that the numbers would be around (this is including the fifteen) 37 men, 21 women, and 7 children (children being 11-15 -I assume there wouldn't be children any younger than that). We do have 65 ex-slaves total, right?

Remember, these ex-slaves are the most radical of slaves. Slavery is a horrible lifestyle, but at least as long as a slave is obedient, they have a chance to survive. By escaping, all these ex-slaves put their lives on the line. Though few may be skilled in weaponry, because they managed to escape in the first place, almost all the slaves should be capable of fighting. Exceptions are but not limited to the oldest of the ex-slaves, the youngest, the injured, the mentally incapacitated, and of course, those who aren't willing to participate (which would most likely be more women than men).

Anyways, I apologize if I just rambled- it's a bit late, but hopefully I did make some sense. Just my thought on the matter.... :cool:

Regin Hardhammer

09-23-2006, 08:55 AM

Nogrod,

I made the change. Thanks.

___________________________

But at the same time it would leave open the question of the ex-slaves freedom in the first place: so just changing a bad lord to a good one - where is the freedom if you are under someone's orders anyhow, good or bad??

I don't think most slaves felt like that. Morodr isn't like the Shire. It's too dangerous. It's a place where protection is needed to survive. Most slaves would want to find a good leader and live under his protection. Of course, they'd still have a lot more personal freedom than on the plantation.

Yeah, there might be a few rebels who wanted to be totally on their own. But those people would probably choose to live a life of wandering.

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-23-2006, 11:09 AM

- it's more likely that the males were doing the most physical labor, working in the plantations.

I don't know about this Brinniel. A woman's role is effected by the culture she lives in and her place in that society. I remember my utter astonishment to see road and construction crews in rural India, which were predominately female. For instance the men would mix cement and load it into pans that the women would carry up ladders and onto rooves etc. Another man or two would oversee and perform the more skilled part of the operation, but the women were definitely the grunt labor. On road crews the work was just as cruelling and the women would rig their infants in makesift hammocks by the side of the road while they 'manhandled' piles of gravel and stones. :eek: A lot of these women didn't seem very young or hardy to me, but they certainly had endurance!

It was an eye opener to me.

Durelin

09-23-2006, 11:40 AM

Everyone has excellent points here, and I think the solution is simply to choose, since we determine what is appropriate for Mordor's inhabitants at this time in ME history.

Trust me, I can be quite the feminist, but I'm also often a stick-in-the-mud realist when it comes to roleplaying and storytelling in general - and right now I'm just trying to figure out what could be 'realistic' in the Fourth Age of ME Mordor. ;)

At any rate, perhaps the wisest way to go is to say that all of the slaves will play a role, all will be armed with whatever they can find, but, the older slaves, the women who are not accustomed to fighting or would not like to fight (or who simply volunteer to look after and guard the children), and the younger children will be in charge of the traps and decoys we must plan. The men, women who are quite fine wielding a weapon, and the older children (which could range from even 13 or 14 on), will be taking up the 'better' weapons available, and being the core of the slave fighting force.

What those numbers are is relative, I think. But I think it is safe to assume that the majority of the slaves will be fighting. We could make it simple and approximate 40:20, or even 45:15, to get an idea.

Does anyone (or everyone) feel we need specific numbers? I don't know if that's quite important.

Undómë

09-23-2006, 03:26 PM

Thanks for the answers to my question - I only wanted to get an approximate idea of the numbers of women and children who might be along.

So, I've filled my SAVE. And been vague about the numbers of women and children.

There are two characters I used/made up:

Gwenith - @ 11 y/o girl

and Nia who I see as @ 16, and so a 'woman', really.

Granny and the women and girls gathered about her will certainly able to offer some defence if attacked as you can read in the post.

Hope this serves.

~ U

Nogrod

09-23-2006, 04:59 PM

This looks good Undome!

I hope you don't mind if I will make Hadith to call for the females so ready alredy... We need to have an organised defense for the the slave-escapees anyhow. They would be stupid indeed not to pay attention to any common effort...

Firefoot

09-23-2006, 05:01 PM

My save #195 is filled. I'm sorry it took so long; RL has really been catching up with me lately and writing time has been scarce this week. I promise my involvement will pick up after the next two weeks or so. A lot's happening right now and I really wish I could post more.

Concerning gender ratios: I don't think it's ultimately important. The same goes for age; unless it becomes important for some reason, I'm comfortable going for now with general guidelines such as about twice or three times as many men than women, and most of the people are probably between 15 and 35 years old. But that's me.

Nogrod

09-23-2006, 05:07 PM

They would be stupid indeed not to pay attention to any common effort...I didn't want to sound anything like a chauvinist here... It was meant to cover all the slaves.

Undómë

09-23-2006, 06:50 PM

They would be stupid indeed not to pay attention to any common effort...

I didn't want to sound anything like a chauvinist here... It was meant to cover all the slaves.

Now that's funny, because I thought you were referring to the men as stupid! :p

Yes, you can have Hadith drop by. That would be good.

Hmmm . . . Hadith is 18 right?

~ U

Nogrod

09-24-2006, 05:08 AM

Now that's funny, because I thought you were referring to the men as stupid! :p

Yes, you can have Hadith drop by. That would be good.

Hmmm . . . Hadith is 18 right?

~ U :)
How we can see things! :rolleyes:

Yeah, Hadith is 18.

I'll see if I have time to make a drop in today, tomorrow...

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-24-2006, 03:50 PM

The save for Carl has been filled.

Child of the 7th Age

09-25-2006, 01:31 PM

My save is also filled. Dorran - you have your lead-in. Use Lindir as needed.

Folwren

09-25-2006, 02:51 PM

I was thinking about the riding double thing a few days ago. . .Azhar will have to ride with someone who can keep her up on the horse and steady. She's not going to really be strong enough to keep herself up. (That is, I don't think she'll be able to in her present condition, but if Tevildo wants to change that, that's fine.) I was thinking (others can disagree with me) that Azhar would ride in front of the original rider, where he could keep and arm about her as they rode. Athwen can't keep her up. She's too small. Azhar's probably as tall as she is (I can't remember how tall Tevildo said Azhar was) and a weight like that would be hard to keep on a horse. Can Lindir take Azhar with him?

We also have a few additional horses, with Shae's and that slaver's horse that Dorran picked up. :)

Kwell can ride behind anybody.

-- Folwren

Child of the 7th Age

09-26-2006, 01:48 AM

Can Lindir take Azhar with him?

That's fine Folwren. Lindir will be glad to help. What you say makes sense.

Tevildo, how does that sound to you?

Folwren, Tevildo -- Shall I edit Lindir's original suggestion in the post, or shall we deal with the change of plans in the actual story? I'm very open here to either option.

Folwren

09-26-2006, 06:25 AM

Folwren, Tevildo -- Shall I edit Lindir's original suggestion in the post, or shall we deal with the change of plans in the actual story? I'm very open here to either option.

Either way works, but I was thinking as I read it that we could just change it in the story. Have Athwen say something to the effect of what I just said and go on.

But I don't care that much. Whatever you want to do.

-- Folwren

Child of the 7th Age

09-26-2006, 10:35 AM

I was thinking as I read it that we could just change it in the story.

I also think this is the best approach.

Folwren

09-26-2006, 02:41 PM

In the post I'm about to place, I used Shae a bit, Brinniel. If you need anything changed, let me know, of course, and I'll be quite happy to change it.

Hilde, I'd gotten from your last post that Carl was going to tell Athwen about Shae's hands. That's what he was speaking to her about when Aiwendil walks up. (Anyway, it will be, once I place my post.) I did not think that he would have mentioned the stone just then. If you want him to tell her sometime, you can write it. :)

And I think that's all. If not, I'll edit this again after I finish and place the post.

-- Folwren

Brinniel

09-26-2006, 03:15 PM

Her had feared being stopped by the slavers, attacked and forced to fight.
You mean "he" right? Not a major typo, but enough to almost confuse me... :rolleyes:

I think everything looks good for Shae on your post, Folwren. I think I'll put in a save, but due the load of schoolwork I'm not sure how soon I can fill it. Friday night would probably be the latest; if that's too long, let me know and I'll remove it.

Folwren, most of my post will most likely be between Shae and Athwen. Let me know if there's anything specific you would like me to add into it.

Hilde Bracegirdle

09-26-2006, 06:16 PM

Thanks Folwren. Carl with have to work up the courage to tell Athwen. :p

Folwren

09-27-2006, 07:42 AM

Hm, yes, I did mean 'He had feared'. I'll fix that. Thanks. :D

I can't think of anything I want Athwen to do or say in particular, besidse trying to clean it and put something onto it to help it heal. She'll probably ask what it is from, though, but if Shae doesn't want to tell her, she's not likely to push for an answer.

Thanks Folwren. Carl with have to work up the courage to tell Athwen.

I thought so. ;) Go ahead and work up the courage. I'm patient.

-- Folwren

Tevildo

09-27-2006, 12:36 PM

Lindir and Dorran are doing a joint post. I've put Child's post in the save and will give my response for Dorran later, hopefully tonight. So for now please bear with me for a half done post.

Tevildo

09-29-2006, 05:03 PM

I haven't forgotten the rest of my save. This has been a crazy week. Every time I set aside time to write, something messes it up! :mad:

Tevildo

09-30-2006, 06:42 PM

OK, I filled my save. I put it in a new post. Child wrote the end of the post and I put that up with mine.

Regin Hardhammer

10-01-2006, 01:48 PM

I didn't want people to think I've dropped out of the game. Since both my characters are orcs (and there aren't many of us), I am having a hard time coming up with an idea till time moves forward. Once the slavers move out of their camp, Ishkur will have plenty of things to do. :D

If any of you other orcs have any ideas for right now, please send me a pm. I won't be on till late Monday night.

- Regin

Brinniel

10-01-2006, 02:10 PM

Okay, save filled.

Sorry it took so long. I swear I was planning to fill it last night, but for some reason I couldn't get onto the site...

I hope you approve of my use of Athwen, Folwren. :)

Hilde Bracegirdle

10-01-2006, 02:31 PM

Seems like I'm in the habit of saying this on this thread, but here we go again....
Carl's save is filled.

EDIT: Nice image of a tower Child. Thanks for including it.

Folwren

10-02-2006, 12:40 PM

I hope you approve of my use of Athwen, Folwren. :)

She was fine. You used her well. :)

-- Folwren

Undómë

10-03-2006, 02:24 PM

SAVE filled.

Just waiting for Hadith to introduce himself and tell his plan.

Child of the 7th Age

10-03-2006, 06:45 PM

Regin,

I am having the same problem you are with my secondary character. Until time moves forward, it's difficult to find something to post for Makdush. Just hang on .... The fellowship will be arriving in the rebel camp shortly, and things should begin moving ahead. If I can think of anything else before then, I'll get back to you in a pm.

____________________

Everyone

Tomorrow at mid-day, I am going to have Lindir do a narrative post that will take us across the plains to the outskirts of the slave camp. It will be about an hour before dawn. If anyone needs to put up a save or post before then, please go ahead. Also, let me know if there are any problems with this brief time leap.....

Hope you won't mind us bursting into the camp in the middle of your conversations!

Durelin

10-03-2006, 06:46 PM

Hope you won't mind us bursting into the camp in the middle of your conversations!

Personally, that's how I always imagined it! :D

Undómë

10-04-2006, 11:00 AM

Nogrod

Durelin's 'Adnan' has made a response to Brenna and company - do you want to jump in with a post. Or shall Brenna just carry on from there.

Either way is fine with me.

~ U

:)

Child of the 7th Age

10-04-2006, 05:36 PM

Yeah! First contact....

Folwren, Tevildo, Brinniel -- Let me know if I should edit anything regarding your characters.

I have assumed that the camp would still have guards stationed at night, and they would raise the alarm at the sight of any outsiders. Folwren or Brinniel -- it would be helpful if at least one of your characters vouched for us before the angry slaves descend with their swords and pitchforks. :eek:

And trampling hoards of slaves -- feel free to come "meet" us....

Brinniel

10-05-2006, 12:08 AM

Durelin- I sent you a PM about the post that will go in the save. Once I have your response, I will go ahead and fill it in.

Brinniel

10-05-2006, 02:14 PM

Saved filled.

Distracted by her conversation with Khamir, Shae ended her introduction rather openly, so the Fellowship may say whatever they like to the ex-slaves, or vice versa. :)

Folwren

10-06-2006, 04:56 PM

What exactly is it that's making the ex-slaves murmur in anger just now? What have the fellowship said or done? I have the assumption that it's not really serious because they haven't done anything wrong. Kwell doesn't put up with stupidity very well and I think this next post may be interesting, but I need to know just what's causing this unhappy reaction.

-- Folwren

Brinniel

10-07-2006, 01:53 PM

What exactly is it that's making the ex-slaves murmur in anger just now?

I think it's simply the unexpected arrival of the Fellowship. Some may welcome help, but there are others who will not like the idea of strangers coming in and taking over the situation.

Tevildo

10-07-2006, 04:47 PM

I don't think it's strange that the slaves would be split and divided about a group like this appearing out of nowhere. Who knows if all of them even knew about Khamir's original letter? That was months ago anyways so they probably forgot it. But it also seems logical that a young person like Kwell would be impatient with the slaves for not jumping on a good thing.

I've put up a save. Folwren -- I'll see how your post goes and take the lead from you, what ever that is. If needed, Dorran can try to "mend fences" since he has the advantage of being older than Kwell and also has seen things from both side of the fence, both as a slave and member of the fellowship. I'll wait till you post to do mine.

Folwren

10-07-2006, 07:01 PM

Save filled.

Tevildo, take it away. I gave you a lead in, and it actually works wonderful because I don't know how I would have ended my post otherwise. And you can ignore the PM I sent. I sent it while you were online, but you must've missed it before you left.

Well, I'm running. Please do tell me if I need to change anything, anyone. I was unsure of it.

-- Folwren

Nogrod

10-09-2006, 10:00 AM

Tevildo: I hope you could hold your horses just for a while. I've planned a post and would like you to read it first before you continue. If that is not possible, we can surely change the ending of my post then. But otherwise you should put your post after mine as Hadith addresses Kwell and his words in it (and I don't know as yet what Dorran would be saying).

Mine will be posted in a hour or two at most from now...

Nogrod

10-09-2006, 12:40 PM

My post done.

I have tried to fill in the gap between the discussions on the ex-slaves camp and the arrival of the fellowship.

I hope everything is okay with you. I have used both Khamir and Brenna to a degree, so let me know if there is something not right there. I'll change those parts immediately.

And really Tevildo, sorry, but as you had just a save there and didn't fill it, I thought it was okay by the rules that those having saves must oblige to things happening in the thread (I will not have a chance to write anything over wed -fri as I'm going to have a minor operation in a hospital and so thought of writing this one now as I had time to do it).

I hope you agree with my overall explanation why the ex-slaves were such reluctant to get aid (they had the first time created an "us" feeling and the strangers are going to break it)...

Folwren

10-09-2006, 12:58 PM

Hahaha! I didn't figure Kwell's outburst would go over very well and obviously I was right, but I'd no idea it'd be taken so bad. :eek: Hope the fellowship can figure out some way to mend the gap he's just created.

Tevildo, Dorran is right there next to him and you're planning on having him try to calm things down, if I understand correctly. Check your PMs, I've got an idea.

-- Folwren

Nogrod

10-09-2006, 01:06 PM

Hahaha! I didn't figure Kwell's outburst would go over very well and obviously I was right, but I'd no idea it'd be taken so bad. :eek: Hope the fellowship can figure out some way to mend the gap he's just created.Well, I guess the fellowship is chosen for their abilities and they should be able to make good this kinds of small rifts?

But yeah. Leadership is needed, but how will people who have just learned to be self-steering tune themselves with outside authorities? Good question, I say... :smokin:

Brinniel

10-09-2006, 01:09 PM

In an instant Hadith realised that he had not seen or thought of Khamir in many hours. Where had he been and why had he not been with the others as they discussed their tactics and overall defence. Had he gone away and was now back or what?
You know, I always thought Beloan would stay with Khamir, but your post proves otherwise. Perhaps Khamir really did intend to go after the children and Shae on his own. With a comment like that, I can't help but wonder what Khamir really was doing the moments before the Fellowship arrived. Did he leave and come back?

Nogrod

10-09-2006, 01:23 PM

You know, I always thought Beloan would stay with Khamir, but your post proves otherwise. Perhaps Khamir really did intend to go after the children and Shae on his own. With a comment like that, I can't help but wonder what Khamir really was doing the moments before the Fellowship arrived. Did he leave and come back?I had the same thoughts myself but then decided to pull Beloan as the one to bring the ex-slaves together. I think it was needed as Hadith would not have been the figure to do it, anyway. He's no leader even he might be outspoken (at least for the time being). And someone had to be the believable one to gather the discussion, even if the discussion were to be democratic in a sense. I found no better candidate than Beloan for that. And it sounded believable that he would have chosen the lot against Khamir - even though he seems to admire Khemir a lot - that could have been a place where Beloan would have chosen otherwise, seeing the foolery of the effort Khamir was proposing (as Hadith said: we didn't know in what direction the slavers camp was, or was it five or fifty miles away! So foolishness to go and try one direction by foot when those others have horses...)

I think Durelin left it open enough that Beloan might choose otherwise and in this situation I thought this "other choice" to be more believable and giving Durelin the freedom to make Khamir the dramatic character she obviously is wishing to make him... :)

But let's hear Durelin. I'm ready to change the casting of my post if needed, surely. I know I have taken some liberties as I tried to bring the things in the ex-slave camp to even the things happening outside (eg. the fellowship coming to them) and tried to come up with reasons why they were not just receiving them with open arms.

And if you have complaints against my interpretation of these reasons, just call me and we'll consider them...