The Fellowship of the Fourth Age (Part 1): A New Beginning Discussion Thread

[Child of the 7th Age]

Durelin,

That is great news! I know how time consuming it was for us last year when our son had to make his choice. It's a good problem to have but very time consuming. Have fun choosing!

[Tevildo]

Congratulations, Durelin! Did you want to bring us to the edge of camp? If so, I'll wait to post....

[Child of the 7th Age]

Durelin,

I also wanted to check with you. Will you be doing the post that gets us into the village? If yes, I'd like to have Makdush get a glimpse of what is coming, and ride back to tell Ishkur and Gwerr....if that's alright with the other two orcs (Regin? Nogrod?).

[Nogrod]

I'd like to have Makdush get a glimpse of what is coming, and ride back to tell Ishkur and Gwerr....if that's alright with the other two orcs (Regin? Nogrod?).That would sound good enough.

That would also be one way of making the the two thinking better of the Uruk if he came to warn them early enough while they knew nothing about the timetable of the possible oncoming forces.. then again the two had said they were about to leave some hours ago (to make Makdush get away from the tent) and now they would be caught still remaining in the tent... not a bad thing for the overall plot, I think?

There could also be some heated words about whether they should try to help their friends that are drunk... and surely there would be no time in the end to do anything as the plot requires the others to be caught... So many places for the three (Makdush, Ishkur and Gwerr) to blame each other and to start to work together for better results...

Go for it Child!

[Child of the 7th Age]

Nogrod -

That sounds good. I also got a pm from Regin telling me to go for it.

Unless I hear otherwise from Durelin, I'll do a post where Makdush sees the men coming across on the plain before they actually enter the camp. Then he races back to Gwerr and Ishkur to give them the news. (Just to make sure, I'll even have Makdush overhear some vague snatches of conversation that indicate where the group is going.)

[Durelin]

That sounds good to me, Child. For some reason I wasn't even thinking of getting the group to the slaver camp itself already, but that probably is best, isn't it? (I was actually just thinking of getting them out of their own camp, which Child covered.) But yes, please go ahead with your plans for Makdush.

I'll go ahead and post to get them to the slaver camp if that is preferable, but in the mean time please feel free to post anything, Tevildo and everyone. Unfortunately I have a project due on both Monday and Tuesday (each), but I cannot work without large breaks, and I will make posting my top priority when I do. Actually, I will try and write the post now...if my brain will cooperate... It's taking me forever just to write this post. :rolleyes:

I am so, so sorry about how much I have not been around. And thank you so much for the congrats, Child and Tevildo And thank you, Child, for all your help with that applying mess. Your thoughts and experience were of great help and reassurance!

[Folwren]

Hahaha! Post finished! I'm very glad to have that done.

-- Folwren

[Child of the 7th Age]

Durelin,

Since you've got school projects, just work on it gradually and don't worry if it doesn't get up till mid-week. Once I get my post up, I think the other "orcs" will be able to post, and that will keep us going for a while.

[Nogrod]

Looking good!

And sorry. We've had the annual national exams in the senior secondary high-schools during the past couple of weeks and then my choir had three performances this weekend accompanying a movie from 30's in a movie theatre (making the sounds, ie. sound-effects and music live on the spot). So I have been more than busy.

But I'm coming back again now... :p

Just beware! :D

[Durelin]

Finally posted! I hope that the content of my post is alright, as well as its placement. Let me know if it needs to be moved. Unfortunately I cannot say how much I'll be able to be on the next few days, as I am currently at relatives' house and will be until Saturday, and then on Sunday I am traveling again. I might be gone Monday and Tuesday, but at this point I think I likely will actually cancel plans for those days and then have all the time in the world (ha!) for a few days, which will NOT be spent doing homework. :D

But just let me know if there are any issues and I'll see to them as soon as possible!

[Child of the 7th Age]

Durelin - Looks good to me.

Nogrod, Regin --

We need to get over there fast! :D

Let's have a quick argument and then take off.

Everyone - We need to be careful about the timing on this.

[Regin Hardhammer]

Child - I got your pm and put up a save. I'm going to have Ishkur argue for going to help the others. That way, Gwerr can decide. :D

Scouts - Could you hold off attacking the orc until Nogrod and I get our posts up?

- Regin

[Nogrod]

Child - I got your pm and put up a save. I'm going to have Ishkur argue for going to help the others. That way, Gwerr can decide. :D

Scouts - Could you hold off attacking the orc until Nogrod and I get our posts up?
Okay, Gwerr decides then...

And yes, please wait a second. I can post today or tomorrow, as soon as Regin gets his post on first.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Firefoot,

My inbox was full, but I've cleaned it out if you want to send that pm again.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Brinniel,

Were you going to have Shae be the first one to pull a knife on the sleeping orc as we discussed earlier? Check your pm box....

[Brinniel]

Yeah, that's what we talked about, so I'm still planning on it. :cool:

Right now, I'm just waiting for everyone to get their posts up. Let me know when you're all ready for Shae to make her move, and I'll start writing. Unfortunately, I can't exactly promise how fast I'll be. My RL is as crazy as everyone else's seems to be. It's the last three weeks of school, so from here on, things are about to get very stressful for me.

[Nogrod]

Go on Brinniel.

I've made a save for Gwerr's answer and will fill it as soon as Regin fills his. So for our part it's alright to go forwards. Just don't make anyone step into the slaver-leader's tent just yet... :D

[Folwren]

I'm not exactly sure where Kwell is. Could someone set me straight? Is he and Azhar with their horse with the riders who discovered the orcs? Did the ex-slaves separate?

I would like to try to write some post for Kwell. I like the character and haven't worked with him in a while.

-- Folwren

[Nogrod]

I'm not exactly sure where Kwell is. Could someone set me straight?

Within a short span of time, Lindir has accumulated his list of volunteers, "This looks to be it." he noted, calling out the names of those who had agreed to go, "Azhar, Shae, Johari, Kwell, along with Beloan and myself, and the five that I already mentioned. That makes eleven in all, which should be enough if things get tight.And as Child agreed, Qat will be added to the list so it makes twelve.

[Tevildo]

Here I am.... Back from the dead. :D I have a major project that is winding down tomorrow and hope to get a post written then.

Yes, I understood we were on the same horse and with the group that was going in to the slavers' camp.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Could anyone fill me in on where the orcs the gold laden horse is at the moment? Just curious. ;)

[Nogrod]

Could anyone fill me in on where the orcs the gold laden horse is at the moment? Just curious. ;)The horse laiden with gold is in the slaver-captain's tent with Ishkur and Gwerr who loaded it in the first place - and now also Makdush is in there. They are the three males (two orcs and the Uruk) who still are in their senses. The other males are sleeping their drunkenness off around the camp. And the females have disappeared...

We might still think together which way is the best. Should the females come to beg for mercy on the drunken and the three sensible males should then come to a rescue (which would fail) or would it be better that the three try to rescue their male-friends first and when they in the end are captured the females would come to beg for all of the males?

[Regin Hardhammer]

Save filled. Nogrod - If that's not a good lead-in at the end for you, tell me and I'll change it. Maybe we should take a minute to hide our gold? What do you think?

I kind of like the idea of us doing something very brave, almost escaping but getting caught....and the women and young boy coming to beg for our life.

Brinniel - I wouldn't mind if Shae tried to run me through later and then got stopped by Lindir. :D It would teach Ishkur something about female fighters. He's never encountered one.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Thanks for the summary, Nogrod. Very handy to have!

[Durelin]

We might still think together which way is the best. Should the females come to beg for mercy on the drunken and the three sensible males should then come to a rescue (which would fail) or would it be better that the three try to rescue their male-friends first and when they in the end are captured the females would come to beg for all of the males?

Well, on one hand I think it would be neater to have the sensible males attack first and get overtaken (by pure numbers), and then have the females "come to their aid" last. I think it would be an interesting twist for both the orcs and the 'Free Peoples' that way. Plus it would leave the females pleading for the lives of the males to be spared (and putting themselves in harms way to do it) as the last thing in the Free Peoples' minds.

But then there is the issue of how much damage three male orcs could do. Well...unless they decide on a wild attack once the whole group of slaves and Fellowship is there...then I wouldn't be too concerned about how much more our poor battle-worn group can take. :D

[Child of the 7th Age]

Yeah....I guess I also favor the women pleading as well, but could adapt to whatever we decide to do.

But you're right about the fellowship group. Some members would be hard put to defend themselves at this point. On the other hand, if the orcs are trying to free the other "hostages", then those who were most "able" would rush forward with their swords to fight. We must have three characters in "ok" shape to do this. Lindir is hale and hearty. The trick will be to have no one, on either side, getting killed. (That would generate too much ill will for any kind of grudging cooperation to be possible.) If Shae attacked a sleeping orc, Lindir would stop her. But he is certainly not likely to tell someone not to strike a lethal blow to prevent the release of the other orcs or to protect themselves.

The question is this: are we still going with a two-pronged situation. First, Shae tries to strike a sleeping orc and is stopped by Lindir? Second, the male orcs try to attack and free their comrades?

If that is the case, I would assume that Lindir pens up the other orcs and keeps them that way overnight and sends a messenger back to the old camp to tell the others to come the next day. Then, wouldn't Ishkur, Makdush and Gwerr be more likely to stage a surprise assault in the middle of the night to free their companions? They would not so much be attacking members of the fellowship, but trying to get their own people free. But perhaps somehow, someway, Lindir has anticipated that possibility and has guards who raise the alarm and immediately ambush them so they also end up in the pen??

Is that possible, or are there other ways of looking at this?

[Durelin]

Is there the possibility of the orcs attempting only to free their comrades by trying to sneak into the pit...possibly by putting the tunnel that the Fellowship used to use again? Maybe Vror and the others didn't put the rocks back as well as they thought they had to cover it up? The orcs in the pit wouldn't be able to find it, and certainly not through the water, but the orcs outside might.

But again, Lindir could have been anticipating this, and they get caught as well in the pit. (They get into the pit to help free their companions and then a bunch of guards pop up above the pit, and there are some at the other end of the tunnel as well.) Then there isn't a direct confrontation, so neither any orcs or any of the fellowship will get harmed...?

Hope that made sense...

Basically what you're saying, Child, just fleshed out a little differently...I think. :D

[Child of the 7th Age]

Hmm... Interesting.

I originally wasn't thinking of the pit as the holding place, but this does make sense from a logistics standpoint. I am assuming that an individual orc would be able to do more than an individual man in terms of shifting large stones. The three orcs are able to move aside the one stone that is blocking their path. Once they are inside the actual prison, they are discovered.

The orcs would get into the inner prison but couldn't get out as folk with arrows could be positioned at the other end of the tunnel. The Fellowship could just pen them all in together. We'd just have to replace the one stone that the orcs have moved to make sure they are all trapped inside. (Maybe even use horsepower to do this?)

I think this would work for Makdush. Regin and Nogrod, how about you?

[Nogrod]

Regin: your lead-in was really good. Thanks!

About the situation overall: I think I'm going to fill my save with Gwerr demanding all of them to get out of the tent (with the horse - no mention to Makdush w´hy the horse is so important) and make themelves safe first. Calling for Ishkur to stay calm for a moment: it would be better they tried to sneak than just go to a full frontal attack with a dozen of humans...

So I could leave them outside the camp where the scouts can do whatever they will to the drunken orcs. If you wish I could already start the planning of the attack with Gwerr. It shouldn't be anything lengthy but a post or two and then the orcs would make their assault to save their fellows - and get caught...

I do think that Child is right that if someone gets killed the tension might be too high for any reasonable settlement thereafter. But we also have a lots of NPC characters among the scouts (some of them have only been named) so if wished for, we could also produce a dead or two ob both sides if we wished so (there are several NPCs within the orcs too).

What I was thinking is that the orcs; Makdush, Ishkur and Gwerr are real fighters. Two are thousands of years old warhorses and one is an Uruk. They would not be trapped easily... They would make a fight and not be bad at it, at least if we compare them to wounded slaves.

So any ideas?

I will post for Gwerr (and the the two others) within 24-hours as it's getting time to bed now. Happily all the rest of my questions can await as I will only post them out of the tent and possibly prepare for a rescue mission...

Let the females come forwards after the males have made their futile effort?

[Durelin]

What do you think of them sneaking in through the tunnel into the pit (where Azhar and Kwell were kept) where their formerly drunken companions will be kept, instead of them full-out attacking a larger group?

But, as it stands, regardless of the details, I'd say we're going to go with the three males making their futile effort first and then the females coming out sometime after.

[Regin Hardhammer]

My gut feeling is that we should try and set this up so no one ends up dying. There will be so much built-in resentment between the two groups that piling deaths on top of that will be very hard to deal with. I think Durelin's idea of sneaking in through the tunnel and then getting caught would let us do this.

[Nogrod]

Sorry I was a bit too optimistic about my chances to write that orc-stuff today. The ww-game got a bit too exciting in the end to give me a chance to stray away from it...

But here is the outline of my post to come tomorrow if anyone (Regin / Child) wishes to move on from it.

Gwerr will speak sense to Ishkur that it's foolish to try and attack the riders full-frontal. So they will sneak out from the tent and leave the horse in a safe place (not giving any hints to Makdush, if possible). Then they will start pondering what to do and how to save their friends.

I will not include anything of this discussion so either Regin or Child could pick up from that whenever they wished. I'll end my post in the situation where they all think "what's the next move?".

If neither of you (Regin / Child) have posted when I'm making this tomorrow I will take the liberty to begin the discussion...

[Durelin]

Happy Birthday to our marvellous game owner, Child of the 7th Age!!!

*confetti and cake*

And this game will be celebrating its first birthday not too long from now, eh? :D

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Oh yes! Happy Birthday Child!!!! And many happy returns of the day!

PS Carl's post is in place.

[Nogrod]

Oh well! Happy birthday Child!

May you have ten times the birthdays you've already gotten!

-------
The save is filled now. Please Regin and Child check it, I tried to use your characters as little as possible as I wasn't quite sure about how they would react but we were in a hurry to get the three out from the tent.

I made Gwerr suggest they try to find the females and attack with a larger group, but clearly that is not going to happen. So we'll have to just write them not being able to search well enough or whatever. But your turn now...

[Regin Hardhammer]

This looks good. I am home for the weekend and will try to get something up.

- Regin

[Firefoot]

Out of curiosity... where are the female Orcs now?

[Nogrod]

Out of curiosity... where are the female Orcs now?"Whobody" knows? :D

They're hidden somewhere outside the camp. Maybe at around the orc-camp, maybe somewhere else.

Only they know...

[Nogrod]

So great to see things moving on again!

Kudos to everyone!

It's really interesting to see this going forwards again!

Hopefully we can carry this on with the same enthusiasm (or something like it)!

[Tevildo]

My save is filled. Over to Lindir...

[Firefoot]

My save has also been filled now.

[Child of the 7th Age]

I think I've opened up the storyline again. I've posted for Makdush and Lindir.

Lindir has asked the others to bind and imprison the orcs.

Regin - I gave you the set up you asked for. Go ahead now. But if you want anything changed, tell me.

Nogrod - I used your character for just one reaction. Let me know if there's any problems.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Save filled. (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=518101&postcount=376) .

Tevildo - your turn.

[Durelin]

Tevildo - I've jumped in...if it's alright, Beloan can help Azhar out and the two of them can head back to the camp. Don't worry, though - Beloan isn't like Khamir, he'll let her do everything until she can't do something. :D I can easily edit and make Beloan stay behind and help imprison the orcs, though, so just let me know.

[Brinniel]

Did you still want Shae to cause some trouble?

I could still have her threaten her sword at a sleeping orc or perhaps she could have an encounter with one of those sneaking around...

[Child of the 7th Age]

Brinniel,

I think that would be great if Shae wanted to "cause some trouble" :rolleyes:

I don't think we have any sneaking around at the moment. They're either asleep or well hidden. But there are several possibilities for action here.

We're supposedly in the process of rounding up some orcs and imprisoning them in the pit. There are 6 of them asleep who need grabbing. You could be helping with this and either attack an orc who's still sleeping out of sheer disgust and frustration, or perhaps have trouble with one who has awoken and attempts to break away....whatever you think would work.

Please don't hack the poor orc's head off....we need them all for the storyline. :D You are welcome to have my character cry out somethng like "Halt" at the end of your post, and I'll do a subsequent post where Lindir will insist you draw back your sword. To make this work, it would have to be a scenario where the orc is simply asleep or attempting to run away...he can't be threatening you with death, since even Lindir would not stop anyone from killing an orc who has put a sword to their neck.

Will this work for you? Feel free to drop a note if you have any questions or want to put in some unique twists that you've come up with. That way, our characters would be on the same page.

[Brinniel]

Hmm...I'm thinking that in the process of putting these orcs in the pit, perhaps one of them could awaken as Shae grabs him and in response, he cries out and begins to struggle. A startled Shae would then draw her sword and perhaps even prepare to do harm until she is stopped by Lindir.

Please don't hack the poor orc's head off....we need them all for the storyline.
Don't worry...the worst I will do is a tiny prick, and that should be just enough to scare him. That'll teach these orcs never to underestimate a woman. :D

[Child of the 7th Age]

Brinniel,

This sounds great to me. We haven't had anyone write yet from those characters who are actually subduing the orcs and throwing them into the pit. It would be very realistic that the first two or three would still be sleeping and dispatched with minimum hassle, but that at least one or two we were trying to subdue just after that would wake up with all the noise and try to make problems.

Realistically, we only have 12 scouts versus 6 sleeping orcs, and at least four of those in our group are off doing other things....plugging up the pit or getting news back to the other camp. So having 8 people seize six orcs (even sleeping ones) and binding them would not be that easy to accomplish. Inevitably, you'd get some later orcswaking up and trying to fight or bolt out of camp.

Definitely go for it, small wound and all!

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

Just realized that I had neglected to add Qat's name to the list of scouts. I've gone back and done that here. (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=512314&postcount=352) sorry, Nogrod, about that delay. I thought I'd already done it.

[Nogrod]

Realistically, we only have 12 scouts versus 6 sleeping orcs, and at least four of those in our group are off doing other things....plugging up the pit or getting news back to the other camp. So having 8 people seize six orcs (even sleeping ones) and binding them would not be that easy to accomplish. Inevitably, you'd get some later orcswaking up and trying to fight or bolt out of camp.I thought the same. This might not be so easy... and if something goes even a bit wrong there might be a few people who would grunt over Lindir's decision asking why didn't they just kill the orcs in the first place. ;)

This also makes it more important that the still free orcs (the three and the females) don't meet as together they might be a bit too tough gang against the scouts. At least we couldn't then prevent the blood from running.

Just realized that I had neglected to add Qat's name to the list of scouts. I've gone back and done that here. sorry, Nogrod, about that delay. I thought I'd already done it.No problem, Child. Although now as Durelin has written Beloan off I don't think I have a reasonable cause to use him as it might be a bit awkward to post solely for an NPC. But anyone who can write for the scouts is free to use him. He is well after the fight and quite a soldier (a really a big man) - and possibly a bit short-nerved - so if something happens he would probably be at the place as one of the first, ready to fight anyone. So he might be one of our "troubles"...

I'm coming back as soon as I get the exams out of my hand - which should be on Monday. So on Tuesday possibly... hopefully.

[Durelin]

I'm so sorry for stealing Beloan! Please go ahead and steal him back.

And if you'd like I can edit my post.

I just had to go and maim all my characters, so it's my own fault if I'm not where the action is. ;)

[Nogrod]

I'm so sorry for stealing Beloan! Please go ahead and steal him back.

And if you'd like I can edit my post.Don't worry about that Dury. A shared character goes in the ways the writers make it go... I might "steal" him one day to continue the trek with Azhar though.

But I have a lot of catching up to do with others as well (also in other RPGs) so there is no rush from my side to use Beloan. And as Tevildo is already engaged it wouldn't be nice to change it anyway.

I'm not sure if it was "beloanish" to volunteer for a trip to get out from a place where there is action and decisions to be made but characters are able to surprise one every now and then... I'm not at all worried with that. It might even turn out to reveal new traits from him. And that would be interesting. Maybe he wished to be away because he had the moral dilemma with the issue of killing the sleeping orcs or something? We'll get that.

[Durelin]

I'm not sure if it was "beloanish" to volunteer for a trip to get out from a place where there is action and decisions to be made

Haha...when I was writing that post I considered the options and started writing a bit about how Beloan didn't want to be away from the 'action' or something, and then I deleted it because I thought I was channeling too much Khamir. :eek: :rolleyes: :p

I guess part of my choice was so that you, Tevildo, weren't stuck doing the little trip by yourself.

But, ah, I guess I'd better stop trying to explain myself and let things continue or see about editing at anyone's request...

[Regin Hardhammer]

Undomie and everyone -

The second half of my save is filled.

- Regin

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Carl's post is up and the pit is now sufficently plugged. Please feel free to have the plug work as well or as poorly as would benefit the story. I thought perhaps the threat of having the dam burst or the maybe the discovery that it has indeed burst (resulting with the orcs in dire need of help) might be another option.

Also, I wasn't quite sure if the orc ladies were nearby the same stream Carl is momentary going to show up at. If so, feel free to use him or sight him if you'd like. He will be heading back for the camp.

[Regin Hardhammer]

Hilde -

I don't know what other people think. I like your idea of the dam about to break. One way to do it is to have the orc prisoners needing rescuing. But wouldn't it work better if the orcs were maybe hauled out of the pit and being "tried" topside and then have the emergency threaten both the orc and human kids, who were messing around near the brook or maybe even inside the pit? The two groups have to pitch in to avert a disaster?

I always thought these groups hated each other enough that they'd never cooperate except they're forced to by the circumstances.....needing each other against some kind of common enemy.

Would something like that work? I don't have the pit or the water very clear in my mind, but I guess one of the reasons I like this is that some of the orcs could potentially come off looking good and not just a bunch of drunkards. Maybe the female orcs could try to intervene and also Aiwendil could give his speech to "spare" the orcs. There's a vote by the group, and the vote is death. (Isn't that realistic given the experiences of the slaves?) But then something like this happens to change the whole equation.

- Regin

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

I think that the pit would be the most likely to fill with water, as I had described Vror and Carl as having to walk down an underground sloping passage toward camp in order to get to the chamber on the other side of the wall from the pit. I do apologize for any confusion. I see it in my mind's eye and think I haven't written it as vividly as I see it. :p

Maybe some people might be in the pit trying to repair the plug or move the orcs out of there when it bursts? Another option could involve children getting lost in another underground passage, but I think the first might be the stronger of the two. No time to think, just have to act quickly, you know?

[Folwren]

My save is filled. I am so sorry it took so belatedly long.

-- Folwren

[Nogrod]

I always thought these groups hated each other enough that they'd never cooperate except they're forced to by the circumstances.....needing each other against some kind of common enemy.I thought Child already created us a formidable enough enemy... :eek:

[Tevildo]

I filled in my save late last night for both Azhar and Dorran and asked Athwen a question....

**********

I thought Child already created us a formidable enough enemy...

In the long run, that's definitely true :D , but our enemy isn't there right now. We haven't even seen him yet, and who's to know if people will believe Aiwendil's wild report when he first returns. Some kind of incident like this would put pressure on the groups for immediate cooperation.

[Durelin]

The flooding of the pit is a good idea, and I think it could be added to the list of things that start the slaves and Fellowship members thinking that maybe Orcs aren't that different from them. But I assume this would be separate of when the final decision is being made of whether or not to kill the Orcs and the females come out of their hiding place to plead for mercy?

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

I have been thinking again about the situation in this story, and can’t really see why they would keep the orcs imprisoned long term, unless they intended to use them as bargaining chips should a large group of orcs show up. I might be missing the obvious but wouldn’t they prove a far too dangerous liability on the road? I should think that the question of whether or not to kill them or set them free would linger on the edges of everyone’s mind. All choices would be unsatisfactory, of course. With a flood and the females’ pleas mercy, wouldn’t a large number of the captors start identifying with the group of orcs, especially when finding out they have a similar goal in mind and were similarly oppressed? Perhaps they would recall their own imprisonment and consider freeing the creatures…but when Aiwendil returns, the two groups might decide that there is safety in numbers and that should make some sort of non-aggression pact and travel together. They curiously have common enemies as well. But how does one learn to trust an orc? If of their own accord the orcs save Men or Children from the pit, how far does that go towards earning the Men’s trust? I should think it might go far enough.

These are just some rambling thoughts on the matter

[Child of the 7th Age]

Hilde and Durelin and everyone,

I have been meaning to post my agreement on this for some time. I think it is a good idea, and we should run with it as a number of folk have posted positively.

This is where I think we are from previous posts but please tell me if I'm wrong. :eek: I am assuming the orc attempt to rescue the prisoners would come at night. At that point, Gwerr and his two companions would be trapped in the tunnel and thrown in with the rest. The rest of the camp would arrive tomorrow game time. Then the "trial" would take place.....to execute the orcs or let them go. Letting them go would probably mean setting them in the middle of nowhere minus their weapons! I doubt we're talking about cooperation at this point.

Grask's "attempt" to rescue the male orcs and the females' begging for mercy would be part of that trial. If someone wants to brandish a sword threateningly as part of all this, be my guest. The "young folk", both orc (one male, one female)and human, would be wandering off and get into trouble, but no one will know that. We've never set the female orc's age so we might want her to be younger than Grask.

Meanwhile, the entire camp could be at each other's throats....definitely the fun part! Aiwendil would come stalking in and tell everyone about the giant trolls out there on the plain. Give this situation, Aiwendil will actually suggest the possibility of the two groups cooperating, but I have a feeling that he will be ignored or rudely shouted down in the tumult of the moment. In the midst of this mayhem we get the word of trouble in the pit, and everyone has to pitch in.

Firefoot -- Grask would play a key role here, presumably as a "leader" or those who are trapped by the rising water, especially since he is physically bigger and stronger than the others. I can see the children struggling to work together in the face of impending doom. Perhaps they can teach their elders a lesson. Would you feel comfortable with this?

***********

Please excuse my recent scarcity. Every single member of my family is flying somewhere next week and they are all going in completely different directions. As a result, I am running in circles. I will be heading out to help my eldest get his stuff back home after the end of the school term.

Unless someone objects, I will put up a generic narrative post in the next day or so that will take us to nightfall. Then the three orcs are free to try and stage their break in and get trapped. That should get us to the point where we begin to have some action.

[Firefoot]

Firefoot -- Grask would play a key role here, presumably as a "leader" or those who are trapped by the rising water, especially since he is physically bigger and stronger than the others. I can see the children struggling to work together in the face of impending doom. Perhaps they can teach their elders a lesson. Would you feel comfortable with this? Quite comfortable. Sounds exciting! :)

I'm not sure how quickly all this is going to start moving, but just as a heads-up... I'm going to be out of town this weekend, and time is going to be tight over the next couple weeks (AP tests, for those of you who are familiar with them... not to mention other end-of-school banquets and such). I'll try to stay available, though!

[Child of the 7th Age]

Sounds good, Firefoot. Judging from past experience, we will continue moving forward but slowly, so hopefully that will work with your schedule. I'll work on that post this weekend to move time forward in the scout's camp.

[Tevildo]

I'd like to have Azhar be part of the group that gets stuck in the hole. Since she's just a teenager, I thought that would be alright. Perhaps she could come along to keep an eye on the younger human children (plus she is curious to meet Grask).

[Nogrod]

I am assuming the orc attempt to rescue the prisoners would come at night. At that point, Gwerr and his two companions would be trapped in the tunnel and thrown in with the rest. The rest of the camp would arrive tomorrow game time. Then the "trial" would take place....Are one of you Child or Regin going to write this unlucky operation of the three orcs rescue-party? I have to admit I don't have any idea of this "tunnnel" as to what it is and how the orcs would end up there...

[Child of the 7th Age]

I'll try to get us started after I get up that post shifting us to night. I'm never good at these kind of logistics but will do my best. I'll include some general narrative that will include our joint decision to try and rescue the others. Let me know if you're uncomfortable with anything I've said or implied for your character.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Yes, I have an abiding curiousity about the tunnel itself. This is not the same tunnel used to resue Azhar and Kwell, is it?

Also, I will be out of touch both Monday and Tuesday, as Mr. Bracegirdle is scheduled for surgery, first thing Monday morning.

Many thanks Child, for outlining what will be happening. It will undoubtably be a big help to me, for one!

[Child of the 7th Age]

Hilde,

Ah....

I hope the surgery goes well. I'll be thinking of you and your family.

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

Yes, I have an abiding curiousity about the tunnel itself. This is not the same tunnel used to resue Azhar and Kwell, is it?

Gosh, I'm not sure. I guess we'll see when I write the post. I just wanted to get them "cornered" somewhere. A tunnel seemed possible. If not, then I'll try to think of something else. If anyone has any bright ideas on this, please post here. If not, Makdush will hopefully come up with something.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

If it is does wind up being the same one, just remember that the lower end of it is filling up with water and the upper end is at least ankle deep. Don't know how orcs feel about washing their feet! :p

[piosenniel]

♥ Notice of New Game Opening ♥

Durelin and Firefoot are starting a game in the Shire.

Blood Run: A Terror Returns

If you are interested, please read the proposal – HERE (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showthread.php?t=13884).

The Discussion thread will open soon to take on players and to answer any questions.

See you there!

~*~ Pio

[Folwren]

I am so confused. I'm very sorry, but I really haven't been keeping very good track of the story ideas going on here. Does Kwell have anything to do with this tunnel plot? And is Athwen going to have a part in making sure the men don't kill the orcs?

I just got finished directing the filming for my very first movie, so I should hopefully be less sidetracked now...that is, until June starts. :rolleyes:

If there is anything I really need to know, please tell me, so I can go back and read everything carefully. Otherwise, I'll leave it be.

-- Folwren

[Folwren]

Save filled.

I nearly wrote a quick narrative about getting all the wounded in the cart and everyone underway, but there are a lot of people's characters involved, so I didn't. If no one wants to write about their wounded characers' reactions or thoughts or anything, then I can write about moving out of this camp and going on to the next.

-- Folwren

[Child of the 7th Age]

I made it out of town, but did not manage to do my post. :( However, the hotel where I'm at does have a terminal in the lobby so I will try to write the post for "night falls in the scouting camp" after I get back tonight. I've put up a save for that. I'll also add a lead-in for Makdush speaking with the orcs and them setting out to try and rescue the prisoners. Makdush will have heard that only two guards will be stationed at the prisoner's pit tonight. That's a realistic possibility -- we have a very small contingent of very tired scouts and their numbers were reduced even further by the departure of two. Since Lindir does not require the same amount of sleep, he will realistically be one of the guards.

We need a second guard for the shift when the orcs strike. Folwren - Any chance that Lindir could name Kwell to do that?

Tevildo has promised to have Azhar describe the other camp getting on the road the next morning, but that won't happen till after the orcs get nabbed.

I've sent a pm to the orcs to plan.

Written in haste....

[Folwren]

Yeah, Lindir can name Kwell for that place...if he (and you) trusts him. :rolleyes: That'd be fine. I'd be able to write with him again. :)

So...it's later in the afternoon now. I've been confused in my time and stuff. I think I'll have to edit some previous post or something.

-- Folwren

[Child of the 7th Age]

Regin, Nogrod, Folwren,

OK, the pm is sent regarding the orc attack. Please read and let me know if you think this is doable.

___________________

Yes, I think it is later afternoon/early evening now....

[Child of the 7th Age]

OK, I've got a pm from Regin to go ahead, but Nogrod hasn't picked up on his mail yet. I'm going to give it till morning until I fill in the save.....

[Nogrod]

I'm back again... Basically I think your plan a good one.

I have one idea though but I will PM to those involved in a moment...

[Regin Hardhammer]

I'm finished with exams ( :D ) and home for the summer. I'll be taking a class or two but hope to have more time to write.

I read the pm and can go with the flow...whatever works out best for everyone.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Folwren, Nogrod, Regin,

Please check your pms. I will post as soon as we nail this down.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Nogrod -

Please clear your pm's. Of course, I am the one cluttering up your box! :D

[Nogrod]

Nogrod -

Please clear your pm's. Of course, I am the one cluttering up your box! :DDone... and answered. Let's go on with your plan.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Post up. It still needs cleaning up but I will do that later since I am going to the dentist. :(

Gwerr, Ishkur -- I spoke for you. If anything needs to change, tell me and I will edit.

We should be able to go straight into the action with the orcs approaching the camp and the attacker lying in wait.

Tevildo - you can do the "sister" post with night coming to the main camp.

[Nogrod]

Great solution Child! Kudos for the "rain coming after the windstorm" -idea!
(Although this "let's help the nature" -thing might be overdoing it? Wouldn't the rain be enough?)

I'm not going to put up a save for the orcs if someone wishes to post an "in preparation" -post soon. But I would like to bring the orcs to the trouble tomorrow (RL). That is, if no one else has a good idea s/he would wish to execute here.

[Nogrod]

After Child's PM to everyone I would also encourage all to post now. I will be more than happy to write the orcs into the trouble but will not do it right now as to give the other characters time to settle with this ambush-stuff first.

But I'm going to Turkey for a week on Wednesday and I will post for the orcs before that as I have no idea how much spare time I will have there or are there any decent internet connections in the place we're going.

Please remember the coming rain as that is essential for our plan to get the orcs slipping...

PS. And anyhow, Child can move my post further away if it comes too soon...

[Brinniel]

Sorry guys...I'm trying to keep up, but I seem to be falling more and more behind... :confused:

Did you still want me to post Shae's interaction with a sleeping orc, or are we beyond that?

Sorry again...I'm just feeling slightly confused. I promise I'll try to keep up better than I have lately... :o

[Nogrod]

Okay.

The orcs are in the middle of trouble now. If either of you Child or Regin feel that I have used your characters badly please inform me. I had to use your characters somewhat to get a lot of things happen in a single post but I tried to handle them in the way I feel you would have used them. Correct me if I have been wrong.

A few points in principle.

I had to make this post now as I'm going to be away for a week from Wednesday on. If it feels that my post is there "too early" please move it farther away or let me move it as I come back. So do not let it tie your hands if you wish to post for things before the attack begins.

I have laid a situation for someone to write hiding in the bush which Gwerr is about to inspect and turns around at the last moment. Maybe it was a stone in there in the end... but if someone wishes to use the chance feel free to do it.

I made Gwerr to have the good instincts in my post but that was quite the only possibility as both Ishkur and Makdush have been loud on rescuing their mates and I didn't dare to use your characters to making different opinions as you have voiced this far. But to compensate I have made Gwerr drop already... :)

I wrote the ending quite vaguely in purpose to allow different interpretations. So either Gwerr just tumbles on Ishkur and falls to the pit or then Ishkur falls down with him. It's up to Regin to decide which way it goes. If you need a quick resolution to this Ishkur should fall with Gwerr and the fight is over after you figure out how Makdush will be beaten but if Regin wishes to post Ishkur's defence it's open for him to do it.

I have only mantioned rocks being thrown as I think arrows might be too heavy weapons if we think that these three would have to be in shape to fight alongside the humans against the Olog-Hai later...

The overall design of this pit was pretty unclear to me so I tried to refer to it as little as was possible. If there are discrepancies with the way you have figured the pit to be like please let me know.

So. Forwärts!

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Carl's save is filled in. I left it with him wondering around, so if no one else takes Nogrod up on the "whose in the brush" offer, feel free to have it be the hobbit.

[Folwren]

Okay...I'm about to post and fill in my very shortly kept save, but I wanted to say for Nogrod and Child and Regin that Kwell's not going to fall in like I sugested by PM. Too much trouble.

-- Folwren

[Child of the 7th Age]

Please excuse my recent absence. We are dealing with real life headaches that are eating up my time. My mom's health is fine but she needs to make some other living arrangements and I am trying to get that sorted out long distance and planning a trip to help her move. I am hoping to come up for air on Monday, hopefully pushing the story forward.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Save filled. Later tonight, I will be doing a general narrative post that gets the camp to noon the next day. I've asked Tevildo/Azhar to do the same for those who will be arriving from the original camp. That should get us to the point when we can debate the orc situation and kick the story forward.

Brinniel - I am going to be sending you an email later today.

[Regin Hardhammer]

Nogrod, Child,

I used your characters a little. If there's a problem, let me know.


- Regin

[Child of the 7th Age]

Save filled. Sorry about my dreadfully long post. Tevildo - please go ahead and have the others enter the camp.

[Firefoot]

Save filled.

[Tevildo]

Firefoot - I like your post. I will be really glad to see these characters finally brought together.

Everyone -

Ok, the others have arrived.

Child -- I stuck in the rain I mentioned to you. I figured this would fit in with the scenes where the orc and human "children" get in trouble in the pit with rising water. Rain can't help.

[Nogrod]

"Long time no sea!" as Kath's signature says...

I try to read myself up to date this weekend and if not earlier then after the Midsummer eve's party I will be joining again with full effort...

I have not forgotten this game. It's just that the RL keeps running over...

[Child of the 7th Age]

Ah, good. We are just getting into the "trial" of the orcs so that would be very helpful.

[Nogrod]

Ah, good. We are just getting into the "trial" of the orcs so that would be very helpful.Can't wait that! I quess Gwerr will have one or two opinions if he's allowed to voice them... :D

[Folwren]

Hm. We're getting somewhere exciting, and I'm about to leave for another week at camp.

I will try to post something for Athwen tomorrow before leaving. If I don't manage, it won't be too terrible.

However, I would like to be able to have some work with Athwen and Kwell during the 'trial' of the orcs. I believe Athwen was going to have a fairly strong voice in the argument of whether or not to kill them...? If things progress while I am gone, however, past the point where she should talk, then I can accept that and you should go on without worrying or thinking about me.

-- Folwren

[Child of the 7th Age]

My post is up. Anyone is welcome to take a "shot" at what Lindir and Aiwendil have said (or to support them).

Folwren - Things are going slowly so I think you will have plenty of time to post. Nogrod, as well....

I don't mind if we go forward slowly over the summer as long as we don't grind to a complete halt.

[Durelin]

Khamir will definitely have something to say. :D

I figure it's time to officially say that from July 2nd till the 11th I will be hopping around northern Europe, and will not have net access.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Lucky you! Have fun, Durelin. It should be a trip you will long remember. Hopefully, you'll get a post up before you leave. Either way, I suspect we'll be going forward quite slowly.

I will be out of town July 10-14 helping my mom find a new place to live, and will likely not have internet access at that time.

[Firefoot]

Just to let you know - I'm going to be out of town next week, and I'm not sure about how much internet access that I'll have.

[Durelin]

Thank you, Child! I am certain it will be very memorable! And I'll be taking tons of pictures. :D

I hope everything with your mother goes well.

I'm very sorry it took me so long to get a post up, but one is up and I hope it is okay. Please let me know if there are any problems and I will fix them before I leave.

[Folwren]

Oh deary me. My humblest apologies. I made a save and then utterly forgot about it. I will try my best to fill it tomorrow.

I was thinking, now is probably not the time that Athwen will really interfere. She'll put in a quiet word, but it's not until later that she'll make any really moving speech or anything. I figured that should wait until things get hotter and more people get involved.

What do you all think?

-- Folwren

[Tevildo]

Don't feel bad. My save has sat longer than yours.

I think your comment about Athwen is wise. Azhar will also be quietly upset but will likely not say too much at this point. Dorran, however, will be more visibly upset.....remember that his parents were killed by orcs. I am going to jump my save forward. When I do post, Dorran will have something to say, although he will try to make a reasoned argument to persuade Lindir to change his stance and not just go crazy. If you want to have Athwen say something about seeing Dorran upset, that would fit in with what I'm doing (but of course it's up to you.)

Hope your summer is going well.

[Folwren]

Alright. My save is filled.

Tevildo, I did nothing with Dorran because I'm not positive about what you're planning on doing with him.

Child, I formed my post to run right into yours, so...I hope you're happy. :) Also, it's Khamir in this story and Khandr in the Treachery of Men story. Thought you might want to be told. Also...in your other last post on the game thread, you kept writing Athwen when I believe you meant Azhar.

-- Folwren

[Nogrod]

I know I've promised this possibly a few times already, but I will be with the story in a Day or two...

But really all kinds of things have been in the way, mainly unexpected works and enjoying the summer with Lommy & her sis. But now I'm going to be alone in the city for a couple of weeks and should have time also to catch up and take part in here...

See you soon.

[Tevildo]

I've put up a save for Azhar and Dorran each to speak their mind. At the end of that post, Azhar will wander off with the children in preparation for the scene when they get in trouble in the water.

Folwren - No problem with that. After this post, your character should have an idea how Dorran feels.

Nogrod - I'm looking forward to your return.

[Child of the 7th Age]

"Athwen"? "Khandr"? :o

Wow! I better start taking ginko..... I think I've corrected them. That was a great lead in post, Folwren.

Durelin - Please excuse my edit tag. At one point, before reading Folwren's lead-in, I relocated my post at the tag end of your box, and then removed it so it could come later in the string.

[Nogrod]

I posted for Gwerr and the other orcs first as Regin was online and had a tied schedule.

What I had in mind was that the orcs might have something interesting to post while the meeting of the fellowship & the slaves goes on and we wait for the female-orcs to come to pledge for the male-orcs lives.

So I'm not suggesting the male-orcs could actually manage the charge. That would inevitably lead to deaths and to the impossibility of uniting the two sides.

But is it now a deal that there will be a flood of sorts putting both human and orc children to a risk? If it is, we should then think about the order of posting a bit. The slaves & the f-s will discuss their future and the fate of the orcs while the male-orcs climb up and finally get to listen to what happens outside the door (unfortunately for them the meeting is taking place in front of the pit so they can't charge straight away as everyone's there). Then we need the children going to dangerous places and the females to come forwards with their pleas, right?

And then the flooding and the children in despair?

What follows then should perhaps be discussed... or if I am wrong, please bring me back to the present general idea about how we proceed.

PS. Child: Let me know if I have mishandled Makdush. I will naturally change everything you suggest should be changed.

[Nogrod]

Hadith's post is in too. Nice to be back.

Tevildo: should you consider removing your save when you will actually fill it as I have not been able to pay heed to what your characters were about to say as there was no information on that? So as Hadith has already spoken your characters should speak after him in the thread?

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

So sorry to be late in getting Carl's save filled, but it up there now. Haven't been able to read the last few entries, but it is nice to see things moving again. I'll be playing catch up with my reading at lunch tomorrow I should think.

[Regin Hardhammer]

Save filled. I tried to give a lead in for more water seeping into the pit.

If I understand things right, the orcs will have to leave before the kids can come in and get stuck there. Isn't that right?

[Tevildo]

Nogrod - I think you're right about my save. I pushed it forward.

Regin - Thanks for doing a set up for the rising water. I understood that the orcs would be out of the pit when the kids went in and got in trouble. What you and Nogrod are doing will work fine with me.

This is what I'm thinking of, unless someone would like to add other ideas. I'll have Azhar wander off with the kids but they will first play around on the banks of the stream. Azhar will have her hands full keeping them away from the rising water. After the orcs get out of the pit (whether they are dragged out or come rushing out), the kids will pester here to have a look inside. She'll figure it's better than the rising bank of the stream where the kids might fall in. And she's very familiar with the cave since she spent so much time there. Of couse, what she doesn't is know how bad it's going to get inside the pit when those rocks give way.....

BTW, could one of the orcs leave that rope nearby so it will be eaiser to climb down into the pit/cave?

[Child of the 7th Age]

Glad to see the game going forward. I definitely have no problem with the orcs kicking up a ruckus as long as no one gets seriously injured or killed. In fact, Makdush will be glad to join in the ruckus. As long as the orcs leave the pit one way or another before Azhar brings the children in and the water breaks through the rock "plug", that will work fine. Perhaps, the orcs will put up a fight but will be overwhelmed, rebound, and dragged out to "hear the sentence"? My assumption was that, even with the plea of the women and Aiwendil's warning of danger, the vote will go against them. It's only the danger the children are in and the help they give each other that suggests some limited cooperation is possible.

BTW, from the looks of some posts on other threads, a number of posters are having trouble giving rep and anything involved with clicking links....the links just don't come up. If anyone has that problem, just right click and open the link in a new window.

[Nogrod]

Let's consider this a bit.

The situation now:
The ex-slaves and the FS are having a meeting in front of the pit about what to do with the orcs and the possible threat of the Olog-hai. At the same time the orcs are getting free down in the pit and will make a pyramide to get one up to the door and throw ropes to others to climb up as well.

Where we need to get:
The pit must be empty for the children to get there in the first place so the orcs need to be out from there. And still everyone (orcs & the goodies) need to be near enough to hear the children's distress. And the female orcs need to be in place as well...

So how do we achieve this?

One suggestion to follow. Please make other suggestions...

The male orcs reach the top and listen behind the door while the people discuss. Then the female orcs (and orc-children) come forwards and plead for the males. After some harsh words come from the ranks of men ("more of these beasts, let's kill them once and for all as they seem to spawn from all over the place before it's too late", or something) the males burst the door open and get ready to defend the females. Maybe they'd run to stand by the females (hoping surely that the females would have arms to give them as they only have Makdush' blade with them).

That way we could create space in front of the doorway to the pit so that both the orc and human children could slip inside and use the ropes left by the orcs to get down. There would be some heated words thrown over both sides so that no one would notice the children sneaking down to the pit.

Then there would be the calls for help from the pit and everyone rushing to their aid...

Other ideas?

[Nogrod]

I just reread Child's last post here (one above mine) and got a feeling that I may have missed something. So is there already a plan (Azhar bringing the children to the pit) how the things will unfold?

But how do we get the orc-children there as well?

And will it be the co-operation of the children or also that of the adults as well?

In case the adults would co-operate as well (which I kind of like as an idea) from the side of the orcs there might be a few females and possibly Ishkur giving a hand. Gwerr and Makdush I think are a bit too cynical to take part in that kind of an effort...

[Child of the 7th Age]

Save filled....

Makdush will not help anyone! ;)

OK, I'm not sure. I've got a vague idea but definitely not a concrete plan. A lot of this will depend on Tevildo's posts and Firefoot's. I could see it falling out one of two ways. The two groups of kids could actually be cautiously getting together, or at least some of them. One or more orc children could have folowed the human children into the pit and be staring at each other. Actually, it might be better if it was the girl orc who was tagging along behind the human children and Firefoot's character could see from the top of the pit that they are all in trouble after the rock plug gives and water rushes in. He could try and help but then run back to tell everyone. I do think a few on both sides of the divide would help drag the kids out. My guess is also that Ishkur will grudgingly help...perhaps do something decisive because of his natural strength?? But that is up to Regin.

Azhar could be down in the pit with the kids, or up on top with the other orc kid....whatever Tevildo wants.

Would that work? Any other ideas, Nogrod or anyone? The adult orcs, of course, have to be out of the pit when this happens.

[Nogrod]

The adult orcs, of course, have to be out of the pit when this happens.I can handle this getting out of the pit-stuff but I think we need the females to come in with their pledge first... (I can post for the orcs getting themselves up and listening to the conversation but they will burst out only after the females enter with their plea).

Your plan looks good.

So let the the females come forwards (after a few posts by the slaves?) and then the children getting into danger. I agree that from the orcs Ishkur might be one to help and one or two females (possibly Undome's sisters - is she still around?). From the slaves / FS, well you people decide... Hadith might go for it if there are too few writers arounds but as he is wounded and such a young person he might not be the obvious one... Beloan would be an easy pick of course and I could write it while Dury is away.

[Folwren]

I want Athwen to speak rather passionately about having mercy on the orcs, remember.

[Tevildo]

This is all good to me. I'd kind of like to leave it open whether Azhar is in the pit or at the top with Grask (assuming Grask is at the top). I'll just see how the story unfolds.

Would anyone mind if I handle the girl orc character at least for this scene? I think she's a NPC.

[Nogrod]

As I went back to find out who the orcs actually are to help me writing the next posts I thought of reminding you others of them as well as the research has now been done anyway.

So there are ten male orcs in the pit right now. Three of them are Uruks: Makdush (Child), Illak and Kurrak. Seven are "regular orcs": Ishkur (Regin), Gwerr (Nogrod), Colagar, Zuhut, Griwzan + two orcs with no names yet (or then I have missed the post where they have been named).

Outside somewhere there are the four females: Zagra and Mazhg (Undómë), Ungolt (Regin) and one unnamed (the girl, that is...). And of course the male-child Grask (Firefoot).

I think you could well take the orc-girl Tevildo. Give her a name as well...

[Firefoot]

Wow, this RPG seems to have gotten more attention in the last week that I was gone than in the entire previous month! ;) Nice to see things moving along.

I agree with Nogrod, Tevildo, you can go ahead and take over the female child Orc.

As far as the plotline goes, it seems that right now, without the influencing factor of the females and children, the side advocating letting the male Orcs live would probably win out eventually - so the appearance of the females and children will not be so much the deciding factor as the way to convince those who are arguing strongly for killing the males. That's how it seems to me, anyway.

Now, Grask's typical way of dealing with situations is to stay unobtrusive and hope things work out for the better without him becoming involved. He won't do anything so impetuous as run out into the midst of the Men unless it looks strongly as if the males will be killed - as in, they're at sword point. This doesn't look particularly likely with the direction the plot is heading right now.

On the other hand, I could see the females maybe showing themselves (perhaps telling the female child to stay hidden 'just in case'?) - this would take the focus off the children and allow them to get into some trouble. Additionally, if the male orcs burst out of the pit to protect their women, it would show a more 'human' side to the Orcs. Somewhere in here it would be useful if they moved away from the pit a bit so that the children are unnoticed.

In the meantime, the children (as Grask watches... he still hasn't come out of hiding) get into trouble in the pit. He comes out to see what's going on, realizes the trouble and gets help...

OR... when Grask sees the women go out, maybe he finally gets up the nerve to actually approach Azhar. (Are Azhar and Kwell the only human children we're working with?) If the female child orc is hidden, he could show her to Azhar (and Kwell)... otherwise, they could just wander off together to leave the adults to work it out. If it goes this way (and I think this is more interesting), I think it would make more sense if they were all down in the pit, and then maybe Grask was the only one able to make it out rather than just having him stay at the top.

Thoughts?

[Nogrod]

When the male orcs make a run (to the females, to run away, whatever) there will be three ropes left that are attached to the gaging and hang down to the pit. So it will be both easy and fascinating for the children to go down with the help of the ropes...

Btw. my last post on orcs (in the thread in five minutes) shows that Gwerr has a misunderstanding of their overall situation and that might make the orcs to act more aggressively than they would otherwise have done at least in the beginning... I think it's still possible that when they get all up they might understand the situation better before they charge... and thence wait.

But just to build up some suspense I've decided to make the situation look gloomier to the orcs for the time being.

[Child of the 7th Age]

(Are Azhar and Kwell the only human children we're working with?)

Some of our early battle scenes suggest there were quite a few human children in the group. Rôg mentions taking 4 or 5 older children over to the side to show them how to use pointed sticks as weapons. All of the human children except the older Kwell and Azhar are NPC's. Grwell was the older child that Aiwendil appointed to be in charge of the others. Azhar also had several scenes with seven-year old twins Lisel and Liriel and their younger brother Tom, who was a real imp! Perhaps we could use some of those as NPCs? I don't know what kind of numbers people were thinking of, but maybe a group of 4-5 trapped in the pit?

Nogrod - I like Gwerr's misunderstanding. It's very realistic. Words would have been flying a mile a minute up above. The orcs could undoubtedly speak the common tongue, but it would not have been their native speech.

[Folwren]

Child's answer about the number of children sound right. 4 or 5 is fine. Quite honestly, I would expect a lot of the kids would be tired and not necessarily up to exploring and getting themselves half drowned.

-- Folwren

[Tevildo]

OK, my save is filled. I tried to answer Hadith...to say that the King would be more than willing to help but there are real practical problems that prevent that. I got my geography stuff out of page 92 of Fonstead's atlas. Secondly, I've tried to give a lead in to the female orcs. Dorran said the orcs should die but that he might reconsider if he understood what they were doing out there on the plain. Conceivably, if any of the female orcs heard this, they might be willing to come forward and try to explain to save their lives.

Could we do this? Have a vote.....and the vote is death. But then one or more female orcs comes out of the bushes to talk. I'll put up a save for Azhar to go off with the kids once the sentence of death is given. She doesn't want them to see what will happen..... :(

If you like this, who wants to do the post where the vote is death? It could be from the perspective of any character...one who likes it, one who doesn't or one who has mixed feelings. (Even from the perspective of an orc!)

P.S. It's vaguely possible that Ellessar's troops could arrive at the end and help us out of a jam if those reinforcements show up after we killed the others. A nice eucatastrophe or whatever they call it....:D

[Brinniel]

Okay, my disappearance was a long one...sorry about that. But I finally caught up on my reading.

Anyways, I'd really like to put a post up soon, but I'm not quite sure how soon that will be since I have varied internet access for awhile, plus my brain is still trying to get back in the program and into character mode... I'll see if I can get something written this week, even if it's short.

FYI, Shae will most definitely be voting for death to the orcs. Though she may be more quiet, she feels just as strongly about this issue as Khamir does.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Brinniel - Glad to see you and am looking forward to your post.

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

I will be gone July 11-17 to help my mother sort out her living arrangements. Please feel free to go ahead with the vote and, if you get that far, use my characters as needed. Aiwendil and Lindir will vote against death.

[Nogrod]

Hoping to see you back soon Child!

For those of you wondering the all-cognisant author of my last post, that is due to the post being constructed by Firefoot and me together... I have just combined our dialogue and the suggestions for the stances in it to a post.

And please Firefoot, if there is anything I've interpreted badly or something then let me know...

It's interesting how much fun it is to write dialogues & interactions between people who really are not ready to make any small-talk... like the most reserved Johari and the most confused Hadith... Like the proverbial Finns they are! :D

Fun indeed!

PS. Foley, if Athwen wishes to speak passionately for the orcs shouldn't she come forwards now?

[Durelin]

Wow, I have a number of posts to read. :D I'll catch up ASAP, and see if it's proper to have Khamir rage some more...otherwise I'll get Adnan and Vror into the mix.

Brinniel - Let me know if maybe Khamir and Shae to share some 'thoughts' each other, hehe. Just a possibility, particularly maybe if you think she won't be so into telling everyone exactly how she feels as Khamir does? No rush, though. Glad life is a little less crazy for you!

As far as the plotline goes, it seems that right now, without the influencing factor of the females and children, the side advocating letting the male Orcs live would probably win out eventually - so the appearance of the females and children will not be so much the deciding factor as the way to convince those who are arguing strongly for killing the males. That's how it seems to me, anyway.

I think the problem is that, naturally, it's only been from the perspective of certain characters. That's what RPing is. The big picture, though, is very different. I mean, mostly those speaking up are either the people from Gondor or children, who really don't represent the whole. It seems like a question of demographics almost to me, hehe. Even though I think there are a number of children among the slaves -- well, first off there's nothing to say all the children will want the orcs spared at all.

In my opinion, I think the majority of the slaves, regardless of gender or age, will feel that they should be killed. They have no reason to feel morally obligated to protect *all life* like that. I don't want to get personal opinions involved, but I will say that (yes, personally), I'd look at someone who was a slave in the sort of conditions they were and who felt any great amount of sympathy for the orcs and though I would think their ability to show compassion extremely admirable, I'd also think they are a little crazy.

Particularly if I were also a slave who had experienced the same sort of life (not just isolated events or anything, but living in Mordor enslaved) I would think them pretty crazy, hehe, for perhaps lack of a better word. That's just to put it in perspective, not to cause debate, so sorry for getting personal things involved.

Anyway…I guess it does depend on perspective, but I think that there are a number of factors to consider that really at least to me make it pretty certain that the majority are going to go for putting the orcs to death. Just thinking of the world they live in and have lived in…their worldview and their view on ‘morality’ and what have you is going to be pretty different (if not vastly different) from ours.

Sorry for the lengthy rant. I hope at least some of that made sense. I also hope I don’t seem nasty or anything: that’s just my view, just some thoughts, and I’m not claiming it to be the *final word* or anything, hehe.

Tevildo – I’d love to do a post from Adnan’s perspective about when the actual decision is made, if that seems appropriate when the time comes and if no one minds me doing it. Obviously part of it will be whoever gets to it first, hehe, but… At any rate, I think giving everyone a little more time with just the ‘debate’ (which could mean for some characters just considering it to themselves), because…well, at least I’m finding it so interesting to consider as my characters. Specifically I hope Brinniel will have the chance to give us Shae’s viewpoint. (No, no pressure, I promise!) :D

[Firefoot]

That makes sense. I'll wait and see what happens, then, before I decide how Grask will make his appearance.

So are we ready to call for a vote? If so, I could do it later today or tomorrow - it's the sort of thing Johari would do; she dislikes that the "interlopers" seem to have all the say...

I'm going to be having rather sketchy internet access the rest of the month, just to let you all know... Next week I'm gone M-F (I'm hopeful of at least some internet access, though), and then July 27-Aug 1.

[Durelin]

I'd like to wait a few more days because there is so much to the dynamic of the debate, but you have real time constraints coming up, Firefoot, and I think others probably do, too. That seems to be how the summer works...everyone's in and out. :D

I don't know what kind of pace we want to try and keep up, much less what pace we'll be able to keep up...

I know I want to get at least one post up before the vote, but if someone wants to plow on ahead and do a post about the vote themselves, feel free. Otherwise I'll be glad to do that, too (as I said in my previous post), whenever the time is right.

If someone wants to just call for the vote and get moving towards that, also feel free to do that, just let me know and I'll at least get a save up. My post will be pretty general I think, so there's no need to wait for it.

Brinniel - Once again, if you have some things in mind, just say the word. Even if you like the idea of a little interaction between Khamir and Shae we could perhaps work it out in one post if things are moving ahead. (Sorry if I'm sounding pushy! I just know it can be hard getting back into things, particularly if there's talk of wrapping a section up to move on...and/or I'm just particularly annoying today.)

Basically I don't want to slow this game down at all, but I also don't want to force it ahead as long as there's plenty to do with the present situation...so I guess that's why I sound pretty wishy-washy and torn...because I am and all that...heh.

[Firefoot]

Okay, I'll hold off. (I'm not calling dibs on the vote or anything - I just thought I'd offer.) I have a hard time judging the pacing of this game... it slows down, then shoots forward, and sometimes stuff gets planned ages ahead of when it actually happens...;)

[Nogrod]

I do agree with Dury that we probably should not make the voting yet as only a few have spoken... even though I'm very eager to continue as well as my days of having a lot of time in my hands are getting fewer and fewer... :rolleyes:

But that means just more posting.

[Brinniel]

Okay, I put up a save because that should push me to get this post written up sooner than later.

I'm going in for a very minor surgery in the morning (wisdom teeth), so I don't think I'll be able to write anything for another couple days when I'm not so loopy. :rolleyes:

[Durelin]

Agh...yes, I'll probably have to get those taken care of soon(ish)... It may not be major, but take all the time you need to recover! :(

[Nogrod]

Where are the female orcs? Or the other male orcs?

And are there anyone else to voice their minds but Brinn/Shae?

I could - or Dury could write something for Beloan.

Let's not wait for emptiness - but let's wait for at least Brinn who has said she will post...

[Folwren]

PS. Foley, if Athwen wishes to speak passionately for the orcs shouldn't she come forwards now?

Probably - but I can't. I'm still at camp and won't be home and able to post until Saturday! I'm so sorry. :confused:

-- Folwren

[Nogrod]

Probably - but I can't. I'm still at camp and won't be home and able to post until Saturday! I'm so sorry. :confused:Don't be sorry... we all seem to have our RL-duties and the storyline is getting forwards quite slowly indeed.., - But if Dury won't write anything soon I will post for Beloan to make the things move at least a bit more forwards - and where are the other orcs? Regin, Child...?

[Folwren]

I put up a save and will fill it once Brinniel fills hers.

-- Folwren

[Tevildo]

I also have a save up. I'll definitely post for Azhar. I may or may not post for Dorran depending on what's said before.

Sits and waits.....

[Nogrod]

Brinn, Foley, Tevildo!

I hope you take account to what Beloan has said and fit your posts accordingly (the silence before he opened his mouth and such)... so when "filling your save" indeed move them after my post on Beloan if possible... and possibly react also to what he has said as well... (even that surely is no requirement - just look at how people discuss in the real world... :D)

Yes these saves are a bit problematic when things are getting on this slowly. But this was about my last chance in a couple of weeks to write anything here and I just couldn't wait untill you filled your saves... Sorry.

[Folwren]

Understandable. I moved my save, but will still wait for Brinniel. In fact...I may as well remove my save altogether and just wait. I think I'll do that.

-- Foley

[Brinniel]

So, here's the deal...

Now that I've recovered from the whole wisdom teeth ordeal, my parents are repainting and shortly recarpeting the only room where I have internet access, which unfortunately, limits my computer time a great deal. I apologise for making you all wait even longer, but there is no way I can write anything under these conditions until the remodeling is completed (which should be in a few days).

Sorry if this is an incovenience to anyone... :(

[Folwren]

Are you going to be able to fill your save anytime soon, Brin, or should I not wait?

-- Folwren

[Durelin]

Apologies, once again, not that I necessarily deserve forgiveness. ><

I think I'm going to go ahead and bring things to a vote soon (unless Nogrod did so in his post; have yet to read it); I will at least make a post from Adnan or Vror and perhaps they will voice their own position and concerns.....

I say never wait for a save -- posts can always be placed anywhere (in other people's posts) by our wonderful mods, so if someone comes back with a post that may or may not fit anymore where the save is, it can be placed somewhere else.

I guess unfortunately sometimes a person will have to adjust a post, but...well, once you've got a post there adjusting usually isn't too bad I don't think.... I hope Brinniel won't have that problem at all, though.

Anyway...yeah, I've got some motivation back and I've read the Harry Potter book so I can be in contact with the outside world and use the internet without fear... :p

[Brinniel]

Okay, I'm back and planning to read the new posts, then write something up today.

Sorry for the wait...

[Nogrod]

I will be away for a week and after that only able to hang around a few days before disappearing for another week.

Use my characters if you think it fits. I'm pretty lenient with it. :)

Have fun! I will have fun as well...

[Brinniel]

Save filled.

It's a bit shorter than what I usually write, but I think it says enough. Durelin, I did add an interaction between her and Khamir, however brief it may be.

[Child of the 7th Age]

I am writing this from a hotel in Michigan. I've flown back and forth several times to try and help my mom. (Things are ok here, but she needs practical help with a a number of things.) We've found a place and are making arrangements for her to move in mid September. My kids and I are starting to box things up. I will be back home later next week and will try to get something up for the story! It seems as if the summer has been a little crazy for a number of us.....

[Nogrod]

Good to hear that everything's allright Child... well, "alright" being a relative term. :p

But like I said the last time I'm on my way to a summercamp tomorrow and will be back in a week just to start the school-season (the first days will be pretty rough). But I hope to turn back to this in 1½-2 weeks with at least some effort. I do have a few larger projects in the beginning of the season but it should ease a bit when September comes.

[Folwren]

Well.............Athwen's spoken. I am tempted to revise and re-write, and I may, too, but it's there, so things can move on without worrying about me. If I have a chance and if I edit it again, I'll let you all know.

Tevildo, I used Dorran there at the end. If you think he'd act differently towards her, then go ahead and let me know how you'd like me to write it. I wasn't sure quite what to do just then. Just let me know if it's alright or if it isn't.

-- Folwren

[Durelin]

Well, that post is finally up. Finally.

A couple of things:

Tevildo - I can edit and leave it open for a response from Dorran before Aiwendil shuts everyone up.

Child - I used Aiwendil and Lindir very briefly, I hope it's alright. I can edit however you'd like.

[Folwren]

Wow. I'm glad I know you like Athwen, Durelin, 'cause Khamir sure doesn't.

Now...she didn't make that much of a mistake calling Shae a girl, did she? Shae's only in her early twenties at most, isn't she?

-- Foley

[Durelin]

Oh, Khamir just didn't like her tone with the 'girl' thing...and I'm pretty sure he wouldn't want to think of her as just a girl... :D I dunno - but no, I didn't see it as a mistake.

And yeah, sorry...he certainly has his opinions... ;)

[Firefoot]

Well, Grask is about ready to make his move. First, I think, the male Orcs need to be moved out of the pit, because a) it needs to be free for the kids and b) Grask would be more likely to act seeing them about to die rather than just knowing it in his head - especially if it was Ishkur who was set to die first, who Grask feels a special sort of loyalty towards.

Someone else can write that part or I will, if no one jumps on it... but Grask is still just an observer until he actually comes out.

[Folwren]

Yes, he most certainly does have his opinion. lol! I was getting ready for bed yesterday after reading your post and I couldn't help but think....

"Brainless? Spineless?" said I to myself, "She is not so reputed! Athwen's not spineless. After stitching them up all night, they're a pack of grateful people now aren't they?"

I had to keep reminding myself - "Athwen didn't hear those words...She doesn't know that's what he was thinking...besides, she's older than you and not like you, she won't fire up at the insult..."

You're post was obviously stirring in one quarter. :D

Edit By the way - it would be awesome to see a response from Dorrran, Tevildo.

-- Folwren

[Brinniel]

Now...she didn't make that much of a mistake calling Shae a girl, did she? Shae's only in her early twenties at most, isn't she?
Shae is twenty-five, and nowhere near being a girl in her opinion. Of course, Athwen is quite a bit older, right? So, it's not too strange to have her see Shae as a girl...

Anyways, don't expect any kinder thoughts from Shae. Any words that may hint to her being weak is the worst of insults in Shae's book. If Khamir hadn't come to her defense first, who knows what would've happened... ;)

[Folwren]

Shae is twenty-five, and nowhere near being a girl in her opinion. Of course, Athwen is quite a bit older, right? So, it's not too strange to have her see Shae as a girl...

Hm. I thought she was around twenty. Athwen is only thirty, unless I'm mistaken (which I may be, seeing as I haven't read her profile in a bit). But, drat.

No, twenty-five isn't a girl. That's what comes of assuming something without looking it up before writing it. Should I change what I wrote?

-- Folwren

[Brinniel]

Athwen is only thirty, unless I'm mistaken (which I may be, seeing as I haven't read her profile in a bit).
In your bio, you wrote that Athwen is 39 (I just checked).

I wouldn't worry about changing that comment...it's fine the way it is. Besides, Athwen could've easily mistaken Shae to be younger than she really is.

[Folwren]

Thirty-nine? Good grief! My character just lost nine years of her life! Just kidding. But it is a shock to learn that ones character who one thought was only thirty is thirty-nine...

Okay, then, I'll keep it as it is.

-- Folwren

[Tevildo]

My save is finally filled. I think Dorran may be in hot water. :eek:

Azhar is asking Athwen to go with her and the children.....

[Nogrod]

I'm so sorry I have been taken away from this the last weeks - and will be hands full of work for a few days still.

Just work from early morning to over midnight every day... :(

But I'll be back as soon as I can. Within a week I hope. Let's see how we can turn the tide...

[Durelin]

I'll do my best to get a post up very soon that brings the orcs out of the pit (they're still in the pit, right? Err...) and close to execution.

But if anyone wants to do that, feel free to jump in. If you want to cover anything else before that, put a save up or let me know, or both. ;)

And then we just have to work out the 'rescue' so to speak. *is excited* This is great stuff! :D

[Durelin]

Forgive the double post...

I have finally posted. The execution has commenced.

Alright, so, my post is a little weird...I was kinda in a weird mood...it also is a little dramatic...perhaps too dramatic. Basically I have it so that the executioners are poised to kill when the Orc women and/or children come to the condemned Orcs' aid.

Too dramatic? What we had in mind? Was I too vague?

Just let me know.

Also...do we have Orc women and children around to step in?

[Folwren]

I liked it. I don't think it was too dramatic, either. Poor Athwen, though.

Hey, Durelin, I had an idea. If Khamir really thinks as badly of Athwen as your previous post made out, it might be humorous if sometime fairly shortly, he is wounded and comes under her care. We could make something interesting of it, and you could do a great deal of interesting character development there. what do you think?

-- Folwren

[Durelin]

Thank you. ^_^

And yes, that sounds awesome! Khamir actually holds great respect for Athwen because he's seen her work so hard to help people, so it will be a very interesting conflict when he's actually forced to confront her, and particularly in a situation where he is the one in the weaker position. ;)

I'll look out for an opportunity for that. :D

[Firefoot]

A post for Grask will be forthcoming either tonight or tomorrow night. I've been waiting for this. :D

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Yes Durelin, the post is great. It transitioned very well and sets the tone rather wonderfully!

[Brinniel]

It's been so quiet. Alas, has our RPG come to a halt? :(

I would add a post, but I am not sure where to go with the whole rescue coming up. But if someone puts me in the right direction, I am anxious to write again soon...

[Folwren]

Brin, I'm not sure what happened to everybody. I think people are extremely busy with lots of diferent RL stuff. :( I don't believe that everyone has fully given up on the game, though - it's too good for that. :D

I'm not quite possitive what is happening with the rescue myself, so I fear that I am a bad person to set you in the right direction.

-- Folwren

[Nogrod]

I do agree with Foley, this is too good to be deserted at this point!

I do apologise my absence but basically I can't help it. Too much work... :mad:

Everytime I think there seem to be idle evenings coming forwards in my calendar they get filled with this and that needed to be taken care of.

I might have chances to update myself on the story this week and possibly write something the next one.

Let's keep this alive!

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

I do apologise my absence but basically I can't help it. Too much work... :mad:

Everytime I think there seem to be idle evenings coming forwards in my calendar they get filled with this and that needed to be taken care of.

Or they just plain evaporate unexpectedly.... Wow, Nogrod! Sounds like your living my life!

Yes, I agree. I'm not ready to give up. And have another simple post for Carl in mind, but haven't gotten around to putting it in words yet. Sigh...wish that life could hold on long enough to give me a bit o' play time! :D

[Child of the 7th Age]

I would also like this story to continue if that is possible. I am rusty as the blazes as far as writing goes and am trying to crank out a post for a story in the Shire. Let me try to get something up in the next few days.

P.S. Maybe we should all go on strike in our regular life and demand better hours and working conditions!

[Brinniel]

Brin, I'm not sure what happened to everybody. I think people are extremely busy with lots of diferent RL stuff. I don't believe that everyone has fully given up on the game, though - it's too good for that.
No, I didn't think everyone had completely given up on the game. But I have been in abandoned RPGs before (quite frustrating), and after a month of no posts, I was getting worried.

I can understand the whole RL situation as well...back in school, while I have had quite a few free days lately, there are some days I can get really busy too. And my freetime will only decrease with each month as it draws closer to the end of semester (that's when the all-nighters begin).

In spite of all our busy schedules, hopefully we can manage to bring this RPG back on its feet sometime soon. :)

[Durelin]

*peeks in*

Sorry, I am alive. I can give excuses, but...why bother.

I'm kicking my butt back into gear in the RPing world, so I'll do my best to get posting again...

I absolutely love this game, and I too could not give up on it.

I need to have Khamir react to seeing a little Orc kid, and I'll do that very soon, promise.

[Nogrod]

Is there anyone around anymore?

What do you think if I make a post to get this going?

With your possible admission I could write something to turn this into something that moves again.

Who's around anyway?

I have until the new year time to sit down and to write in all peace without too many RL hindrances so I'd appreciate your answers in a day or two.

Are you ready to give me free hands to make this go further with a sweep or do you have some reservations what certain characters would not do (I would of course try to handle all the persons as true to their earlier postings as I could).

I just thought we should really make this alive again and I can try to do it with changing the situation.

[Folwren]

Nogrod,

I am still around, but you may do whatever you need to with my characters - if it is necessary.

-- Folwren

[Nogrod]

I took a quick look at the activities of those people who have written here somewhat actively... which is a relative thing as the last entry in the game itself is 3½ months old... ;)

It seems that everyone else but Durelin and Tevildo have been around quite lately. I think the problem is that we are missing the orc-females (Undómë and Regin) and there seems to be a general confusion as to how things would start unfolding.

I try to come up wirth something. If what I write is okay to you let's kick this going once again... and if you dislike my solutions I can either modify them or delete the whole thing and try again differently.

I try to use those NPC's as much as I can but I'm afraid I need to lend some of your characters as well to make things believable. I'll promise to be careful with them.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

I'm still around and still interested, just have had too little free time, and at the moment a too much of a nasty cold.

[Nogrod]

I've posted now and things have developed a bit.

There should be lots to react for everyone!

And even if the first female addresses Beloan you should not wait for myself or Dury to write for him. On the contrary I'd suggest you took to writing all of you. And surely fex. Lindir and Aiwendil would have stature to speak generally in this situation. And why not others as well?

I wrote about the general mood changing, disquieting indeed. But that doesn't mean that everyone is just happy to give into the pleas of the orcs. It would be easy to imagine some like Khamir or Shae for instance to be quite ready to get rid of them all (or then not... up to you Dury and Brinn).

There is a small discrepancy between my account and Dury's account in "the Execution" but I think that Dury's description ran a bit contrary to all those posts made by the orc-writers before her that I decided to correct that. It's easier to edit one or two sentences from Dury's post than to edit or delete a bunch of posts of three writers from earlier on. Otherwise I tried to write my post in way that would be compatible with Dury's account.

I managed to write the post with quite minimal references to active player-characters. That led me to make the female orcs appear unnamed. If someone of you wishes to have her/his characters name to appear in the post I'm happy to add it there.

And last but not least. I needed to check the orcs from a host of different places and saw that we have gained one more female orc (by courtesy of Regin)! So just that everyone has the same idea about them I'll end with an updated list of the orcs.

"Basic" orcs

5 females:
Zagra, ~36 (Undómë, major character)
Mazhg, ~36 (Undómë, major character)
Ungolt, 28 (Regin, minor character)
Gwella, “younger” (no player)
Urga, “older” (no player)

8 males:
Ishkur, millenia old (Regin, major character)
Gwerr, millenia old (Nogrod, minor character)
Colagar, millenia old (no player)
Grask, 9 ( Firefoot, minor character)
Zuhut, 40+ (no player)
Griwzan, 40+ (no player)
no-name, ? (no player)
no-name, ? (no player)

The Uruks

3 males:
Makdush, 35 (Child, minor character)
Illak, ? (no player)
Kurrak, ? (no player)

PS. As usual: if you have any corrections to be made just inform me about it.

[Nogrod]

Ah, two more things...

If you think the way I handled the situation is bad in the first place please let me know and I can try it another way.

Secondly the thing where Dury's and my accounts differ. Now as I look at it again I don't think it's a major thing. Possibly nothing has to be changed. Dury wrote the following : Weapons drawn and held close to the victims, the Orcs were ordered and led out of the pit, the men and women who were not their executioners still standing by with their own knives, bows, slings, and spears at the ready. But there was little resistance left in the condemned creatures, with their empty stomachs and bodies still heavy from the night before.Now in a way all this fits to my account after all.

Now there is no mentioning of the skirmish that took place... and it had to take place as we had spent a bunch of posts where the orcs prepared for their runaway so they were in fighting spirits. And anyway as one of the persons writing for the orcs I couldn't believe an account where they just gave themselves away without a fight.

But as I said maybe it's just okay as there is no apparent contradiction involved.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Nogrod,

Thanks for the post. I'll read it more carefully but I'm sure it is fine.

I'd like to go forward if that is possible, though preferably at a slower pace than before. My time is limited the next few days because of family obligations (company visiting over the holidays).

I think we need to see who is still interested in posting and has the time to do so either now or at some point in the near future. We should probably contact people by pm and see if they respond. Then we can just start posting and carry along those characters we're not sure about unless and until someone surfaces.
I'll try to get out the pms in the next few days and see who responds.

[Folwren]

I'm willing and eager to post. :) Will do so this afternoon for Athwen's reactions.

[Nogrod]

I think we need to see who is still interested in posting and has the time to do so either now or at some point in the near future. We should probably contact people by pm and see if they respond.I PM'd the same thing to ten people, that is Child, Dury, Foley, Brinn, Pio, Regin, Tevildo, Hilde, Firefoot and Undómë...

Dury's PM box was full but others should have gone through (indeed many of them has been marked read already so I'm optimistic about that).

Let's hope for people to turn up here - and in the thread itself.

[Undómë]

I've put up a SAVE and will try to get it filled tomorrow. Not sure how it will go. Mazhg is not the sort to fall on her knees and beg for anything - especially for the Orc males. And most likely if the two sisters reveal themselves they will be taken for boy-Orcs, as that is the style of dress and manner they've tried to adopt.

Ah well, we'll see what I can come up with.

[Nogrod]

I've put up a SAVE and will try to get it filled tomorrow. Not sure how it will go. Mazhg is not the sort to fall on her knees and beg for anything - especially for the Orc males. And most likely if the two sisters reveal themselves they will be taken for boy-Orcs, as that is the style of dress and manner they've tried to adopt.Good to see you back Undómë!

All the female orcs are now said to have come forwards. If there were some hiding still the number of the ones pegging for mercy should be fewer... I can fix that if you wish to have your characters to stay behind. That's no big deal.

If you settle with Zagra and Mazhg being there so please tell me how they would have spoken - if they would have spoken in the first instance. I kind of thought about this as I wrote the post and wasn't comfortable with any of those female "speeches" being suited to your characters but I had no energy to think it further then. I'm ready to make any changes you see fit.

And anyhow. As both you and Foley are wishing to write something I think Child could delete her save and see whether your posts come first - unless it postpones the advancement of the story once more to some unknown future...

Maybe Child - and everyne around - should just post when they can, without saves, and we could work those posts in reasoned order then afterwards if there are discrepancies?

I mean with this level of activity in posting we should not discourage anyone to post a.s.a.p.

Let us write this again and deal with timelines later as posts can be readjusted.

[Undómë]

I think I'll ask you to reduce the # of begging women by 2, if you would. Thanks in advance for doing so.

Mazhg and Zagra will be watching from the safety of some nearby hiding/spying place. If Child has posted before me, then I'll accommodate what's in her post.

Pio has agreed to work with what my two do. Her character is rather sidelined at the moment, too, it seems.

[Nogrod]

I think I'll ask you to reduce the # of begging women by 2, if you would. Thanks in advance for doing so.That will be done. Just a minute...

[piosenniel]

Yeah, I'll have Rôg do something to bring these two forward, U. Can you just set it up for me?

[Nogrod]

Changes made. The two sisters are outside the scene now.

It's kind of a good twist to the plot indeed that they're away as well as Rôg. Makes the future a bit more complicated... trust gained can be easily lost and that's a part of a gripping story. :)

[Folwren]

Hey, everyone. I apologize about not posting today or yesterday, as I had hoped. Tomorrow I should have plenty of time to write something. I will do my best to get a post up.

-- Folwren

[Child of the 7th Age]

Post up....

Nogrod - I assume that the third female orc in your revised post must be Gwella. Could you possibly remove her from that earlier scene and have just two female orcs make the plea? I had planned and written this based on your ORIGINAL post when you had used Undomie's two sisters. I didn't realize you'd involved Gwella. If necessary, I'll delete my own post but I'd rather not do that.

[Tevildo]

I'm kind of rusty so I hope this is ok. I'll try to do better posting. If the story picks up, it's easier to write. I also hope it's alright that I used Gwella. If anything needs changing, tell me. So far. no one in the other group knows what's going on by the pit. :D

[Nogrod]

My post is revised. From five female orcs we've come down to two... I have now named them in the post being Urga (NPC named earlier by Regin) and Ungolt (Regin's character). You were right Child, the third one was meant to be Gwella.

Please let me know if either or both of the two remaining females wish to get out and I'll think the whole post a new. :p

So the incident at the flooding pit is developing then? Good.

But at least I would like to read a reaction or two from around the execution as well. I mean that's quite a situation: orcs begging for mercy on behalf of other orcs... and the kid (Grask) as well...

I'll write some myself if I have time today as I still have Hadith and Beloan (as a shared character with Dury). But it would be nice to see other reactions as well. All of the fellowship is there (except Rôg it seems), all the played characters should be there...

[Folwren]

Golly. My post felt very choppy and poorly done.

I have to go now, that's why I stopped where I did. That, and I didn't know exactly what to do with Athwen. So, if Child or Tevildo wish to write for Azhar or Gwella, it'd be great. If not, let me know what's supposed to happen next and I'll post again.

-- Folwren

[Undómë]

SAVE filled.

Go ahead, Pio.

[piosenniel]

OK - I hope I've handled your two characters with a light hand, Undómë. Let me know if changes need be made. Rôg thinks they are young male Orcs as you indicated.

Rôg is now being offered as a hostage exchange for the Orc males. It offers a way for the men to 'save face' in letting the Orcs go.

Of course, there's always a chance the men won't take the offer. :eek: Yikes! Then I'd have to think of some way to get Rôg out of there in an expeditious manner.

:)

[Undómë]

Looks fine, Pio!

Maybe I can do one more little follow-up post later this evening.

[Firefoot]

I've been out of town this last week, but I'm glad to come back and find things moving here! I'll be able to write something up tomorrow.

[Undómë]

Just so everyone has a reference for the Orkish words I used:

Orkish & the Black Speech (http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf/orkish.htm) from the Ardalambion (http://www.uib.no/People/hnohf/) site.

Looking forward to seeing how this situation works out.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Tevildo -

I used Azhar just a little. Let me know if anything should be changed. I'll try to get something up for Aiwendil tomorrow.

Tevildo or Folwren...feel free to use Gwella as needed. She's trying to help the kids but presumably gets stuck herself. We need to develop this thing slowly so that the other side of the plot --the incident involving the orcs and Rog--- has time to play itself out. At some point presumably, someone has to go and ask for help....

[Firefoot]

Nogrod - In the last paragraph of your last post, you have Grask running and hiding himself in one of the female Orcs' laps - would you mind changing this? Having never known a maternal figure, he wouldn't see this as the same source of comfort that most children would. I'm writing my post to have him run around behind the females and shield himself there. (Otherwise I really like your post though.)

[Nogrod]

Nogrod - In the last paragraph of your last post, you have Grask running and hiding himself in one of the female Orcs' laps - would you mind changing this?Sure. No problem.

Great to see all this posting!

And the thing going on in the pit looks interesting indeed. I've already fallen in love with Gwella! :)

[Folwren]

Yes, it does look interesting. Pity Athwen's the one coming - she's one of the smallest grown-ups that could possibly have come to help...

[Folwren]

Alrighty, I posted under the assumption that the pit was carved out of rock. I remember in earlier posts when Kwell and Azhar were kept captive there that they were surrounded by stone. If this is the case, the people down there should have something to cling to. Once all of them are at the wall, the danger will quickly become the water rising and filling the entire pit up to the ceiling.

We need help, that means. ;)

-- Folwren

[Nogrod]

We need help, that means.I think the way I ended up my last post would give an incentive for many people to go back there and check the situation.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Tevildo,

I just got a note from Hilde. I believe help is on the way in the shape of a dwarf. Could you possibly have Azhar run into him and ask him to come back to the pit. Remember that one of the girls is still trapped by a rock.

[Brinniel]

After a week and a half of no internet, I've finally returned to the BD. I admit, I'm surprised to see so much activity here. Thank you Nogrod for getting this RPG going again. I was worried it would completely die out just like one of the last RPGs I was in.

Anyways, I did manage to read everything, though rather quickly. I can't say how soon I'll write my next post, though I will be sure to do so once I get the opportunity. My winter break has been busy with travel disasters and family stuff thus far, but I'm home and aside from making preparations for next semester, I should have enough time to do some writing. I'm studying abroad starting mid-January, so I'm afraid my time will be limited after that though I cannot say how much so.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Telvildo,

Make that the shape of a hobbit if you would. Carl is off alone by the wagon, which I think could be as near the pit as you like. I hope to fill in the save very soon with a short post, so that you know what Azhar is likely to find him up to.

All she need do is ask, and he'll come running.

(Nice to be feeling somewhat human again! :p)

[Child of the 7th Age]

Hilde,

Whoops! My apologies.....calling a hobbit a dwarf. :eek: I thought hobbit and wrote dwarf. Actually, I am missing Durelin's Vrór.

[Tevildo]

A hobbit it is...

My intro is up. Hilde, if you need something changed, tell me.

And happy new year, everyone.

[Nogrod]

Could anyone of you people writing about things going on at the pit consider someone there Azhar, Athwen, Carl... or one of the children calling loudly for help?

That could have interesting consequences as people wittnessing the other drama are right now quite worried about there being more orcs around and scared for the sake of their youth...

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Thanks Tevildo, it's perfect. I'm hoping to get another post in this morning.

Not to worry Child I'm also missing Vror, and very much wish he could be there to help out.

And Nogrod I have an idea for a bit of noise, if everyone deems it the right timing. I'm wondering if it should happen after Rog's situation/ploy has played out though.

Happy 2008 everyone!

EDIT: The post is up. Please let me know if I need to change anything. I might not be able to peek in again until tomorrow afternoon.

[Nogrod]

Let's keep up with the involvement...

This one still needs a push and we have done it nicely the last days. Let's not just think it will go on by itself from now on.

If you don't post I will.

And that's a threat! :rolleyes:

[piosenniel]

So, is it pretty much the consensus that you are going to kill those captive Orcs? No one has spoken up about any other sort of deal; that's the sense I get from Nogrod's last post.

If so - then I need to figure out something to do with Rôg and Undómë will need to do something with her 2 characters.

Was Lindil or Aiwendil going to chime in?

[Folwren]

Pio, his last post (if you're talking about the last one here on this thread) was humorous...almost sarcasm, methinks. His threat was commical. He's not killing any orcs.

I believe that the plan is to have everyone distracted by the kids in the pit, though how that will cure the problem entirely, I'm not yet certain.

Whatever the case, you're right. Things do need to be figured out with Rog and Undome's two characters. :)

[Nogrod]

So, is it pretty much the consensus that you are going to kill those captive Orcs? No one has spoken up about any other sort of deal; that's the sense I get from Nogrod's last post.Ahh... sorry!

Child wishes to get Makdush killed and a row in the crowd would make a good explanation why someone kills Makdush in sudden anger (someone just jumps on one of the orcs and that happens to be Makdush) before anyone can stop the act.

I should have said that...

Other orcs should stay alive I believe.

[Nogrod]

that's the sense I get from Nogrod's last post.If you refer to my last post in the actual thread then I think I need to explain it shortly.

It seemed that everyone (our characters) would be for letting the orcs live - and why not as it's our aim in the end. Now just a moment ago they were ready to kill them. There needed be some credible opposition so I tried to bring that forwards in my last posts in the thread so that our characters could argue against an openly spoken "let's kill them" mentality.

I've never wished for the orcs to die (I even opposed Child's decision to kill Makdush - well I lightly protested to her about it - but surely it's her character and she can do with him whatever she wishes). On the contrary. Writing the orcs has been one of the most interesting things of this game!

[Child of the 7th Age]

I've put up a save for Aiwendil and Lindir, which I'll try to fill late tonight. Tolkien quite clearly states that, if an orc ever begged for mercy, the free peoples would be obliged to extend that mercy. Perhaps my two characters can be very clear about that.

Yes, I would like Makdush to die at some point, but not now..... I can think of several ways that his death could contribute to the story line. We'll just see how things play out. My guess is that, even if the orcs and uruk agree to travel with the larger band, they will not be in total agreement on the wisdom of so doing. Not that ANY of the orcs would be %100 enthusiastic about travelling with a group of humans, but some may be more or less hostile.

I've spoken with Regin about his characters. He sees no way he can participate in an RPG before the summer. I agreed to carry Ishkur, and I feel he is more central to the plot than Makdush.

My personal preference is that the group decide, with some misgivings, not to execute the orcs. However, I also think that the decision to travel together would not come at this time. Surely, the fact that Gwella, of her own free will, offered to help the children would have some bearing on this.

[Undómë]

The exchange of the captive Orcs for Rôg would offer the humans at least one way of saving face about letting the perceived enemy go. Saving one of their fellowship would take precedence over letting him be killed, don't you think?

Or it's at least a credible point to start in making that decision . . . or so it seems to me.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Undómë -

I could definitely live with that. I'll try to take that into account as I do my post.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Child wishes to get Makdush killed ....

Aww darn, I really enjoy reading about Makdush!

[Child of the 7th Age]

Ah, but his death will mean something, and I won't kill him off unless this is so.

[Tevildo]

I could do a post where Azhar runs over to tell everyone what's happened to the children, but before that would anyone like to do any further posts in response to Lindir on the release of the orcs and/or Rog? Or shall I just add a sentence or two at the beginning of my own post, mentioning that the orcs are now free?

[piosenniel]

Hey Tevildo!

I just put up a SAVE - I'll try to get something up a little later that leaves the Orcs freed and Rôg back with the fellowship.

Does that sound alright?

~*~ Pio

[Tevildo]

Meow....meow! :D

Sounds good to me.

[piosenniel]

Tevildo

I've left a lead in for Azhar or someone to bring the news of the children's plight.....

:)

[Nogrod]

I'll write a few lines for Gwerr (and possibly some of the other male orcs) to put things a bit forwards on that front as well.

The pit-scene looks great!

[Child of the 7th Age]

“Yes, hobbits are infinitely more frightening then goblins!”

A true classic! ;)

I'll try to get something up for Gwella and maybe Regin's Ishkur late tonight or tomorrow.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

:D Thanks, Child.

Nogrod, I wanted to say how much I enjoyed reading your latest installment. I found Gwerr's reasoning to be very believable! :eek:

[Child of the 7th Age]

OK, OK...we don't want thisstory to grind to a complete halt again. I will try very hard to get something up for Gwella and Ishkur in the next day or so. If anyone else wants to go before me, however, please be my guest!

[Nogrod]

I'd like to see something happening with the orcs and men as now my post is last in there and I wouldn't like to carry that scene alone. So I'll wait for you Child at least to post first.

Anyway Lommy and A Little Green will be here the weekend so I will not post a lot until Sunday evening.

I might consider also making Hadith pull back from the scene with orcs as he might be too baffled to follow it and to make him notice there's a trouble at the pit... I'm not too sure, looking at his character, if it's believable (as I think he would stay and see the end of the matter between the orcs and men but I could come up with something). I mean if we need helpers at the pit Hadith might be just the right person...

[Folwren]

I will try to post something this weekend. As of now, I have nothing planned going on. Not only that, but it's supposed to be extremely cold these next few days, so I highly doubt I'll be much tempted to do anything outside. Therefore, I'm hoping for a chance to sit down and catch up to all three of the RPGs that I'm behind in.

-- Folwren

[Nogrod]

It looks like I need to either open the situation with the exchanging of prisoners or to find out a reason why Hadith would leave the scene to find the trouble at the pit... Unless someone comes up with better ideas.

Let's not kill this off now as we just got it going again!

[Nogrod]

Do I need to post something drastic enough you all will oppose enough to start posting again?

Maybe I will make a few humans (those who were ready to slit the throats of the captured orcs in the beginning added with a few others) to attack the orcs while there is the change going on and turn it to a bloodbath? And who would be alive after that? Well, no one can tell...

Or maybe I should write Qat coming to see the problem at the pit and rescuing the children - and killing the nasty orc-child who complicated the things too much with his bare hands?

Or do you have better ideas? :)

[Folwren]

lol!! Less drastic means might be used. I suggest PMs first of all. Patience secondly. And motivation, third. I need the motivation...I will try to post for Athwen this weekend.

[Nogrod]

lol!! Less drastic means might be used.:D

Just testing the waters to see if anyone is still around...

[Child of the 7th Age]

Still around. Will try to post, but it will probably be late Sunday night.

[Durelin]

Um...not even sure where to start...

Hi... Sorry...

I really want to come back, and I will do my best to, if you will still have me.

[Nogrod]

Good to see you back Dury!

[Durelin]

Thanks!

I think I know what's going on, hehe...so here's my two cents worth:

I can see Khamir and anyone else who's typically "kill all orcs" taking the "exchanging hostages" route to avoid giving in, but also to avoid confronting fully the concept of Orc women and children, and Orcs who are "like them" in any way...and particularly to avoid dirtying their hands with killing them.

But then there's also the saving the children bit. Should everyone get involved with that? As in, should it be a mad rush to save them? Or should it be that some go to help, others stay to continue watching the orcs and stuff, and someone allows at least one of the orcs to go help (others don't notice or can't do anything about it cause of the confusion)?

I hope I'm not way off on what's going on precisely, and what the atmosphere is supposed to be like...I need to read through things more thoroughly.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Durelin --

Ach! It is good to see you. Take your time reading and let us know what you think. I have been equally remiss, but I do have a long weekend coming up.

[Durelin]

Thank you, Child! I'm sorry I've been slow with getting anywhere... I edited the last post I made (wayyy too long ago...) to fit more with Nogrod's. Hope it's alright. Now that I'm done back-tracking, time to move forward...finally...

Edit: *sigh* Sorry...but I have finally started working on a post! Finally! Yay!

[Durelin]

Okay, I am definitely going to finish that post I started like...3 months ago. >< :o

But I have a suggestion for the game in general. I think we should put the game officially 'on hold' (novel idea, eh?), by 'ending' it here as a Part 1. We can maybe make it seem wrapped up a little, if enough of us are able to and still interested, but leave everything sorta hanging as to what's going to happen between the slaves and the Fellowship, and the Orcs.

Then, we can discuss things for plot two, make periodic head-counts as to who is around and still interested, and maybe even bring one or two new players into the game if there is 'room' (there's plenty of room in regards to characters to be had, but obviously there can be too many players).

So kinda starting a new game, but not really. We could start off again with a narrative post (or two, or whatever) kinda bringing everything together from the beginning, and then plunge right back in...or we can just plunge right in from the start. I don't think there's any need for a new thread, unless people might like that (maybe to really make it seem like a fresh start again). I would kinda like to see us post another 400-some posts on our one thread myself... ;)

Of course all of this is subject to mod approval, and Child's approval as game owner, in addition to of course to what all the players want. So...let me know what ya think.

(I guess this is also a sorta unofficial head-count, just to find out the status of people involved. Able to participate or too busy to even think, interested in continuing or not, full of creative energy or not... :D)

Edit: Holy crap, it was exactly three months ago today I started that post. Wow.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Sounds like a good plan to me.

[Child of the 7th Age]

I would be interested in doing this. There are some things that are wrapping up for me by next Thursday so I will hopefully be more available.

I would want to talk about how we end part I. Is it better to leave it as a "cliffhanger" with no decision made on the orcs, or to make the basic decision that they will be allowed to live, and then sent off into the wilderness with a few supplies (minus weapons?)? Presumably, they would still be in the vicinity and the early portion of part II would be to bring the two sides back together again to cooperate against some kind of joint enemy.

I am not wed to one idea or the other and am flexible but would like to hear your ideas on this.

Also, Durelin, should you (or I) send pms to the other players and see who answers?

[Firefoot]

I'm here and able to post.