Tears of Mirrormere Discussion Thread

[piosenniel]

Thinlómien and Groin Redbeard invite you to play in their RPG:

Tears Of Mirrormere

[piosenniel]

Basic Storyline: After the death of Balin, Lord of Moria, his people are attacked by an army of Orcs that comes up the Silverlode. The Dwarves hold off the enemies and when the Balrog awakens, there is a battle and the survivors try to flee to the Eastern Gate, where they find that they are trapped between the Balrog and the orcs and the Watcher and flee back to the Chamber of Mazarbul, where they are eventually slain.

NOTE: To refresh your memory of what Tolkien wrote about this period in Dwarvish history please re-read – The Fellowship of the Ring; “Chapter 5”, The Bridge of Khazad-dum (about the first 3 pages).

[piosenniel]

The purpose of the story is to: Give an account of the Dwarves' desperate defense at the Eastern Gate, in the Twenty-First Hall, Hollin Gate and eventually the Chamber of Mazarbul.

This means we will know the story is over when: When everyone is dead!

[piosenniel]

Starting location: The Dimrill Dale, near Mirrormere.

Likely destination: Hollin Gate and back to the Chamber of Mazarbul.

[piosenniel]

Map of Khazad-dûm - HERE (http://users.skynet.be/NightGem/hkhazad.htm#map)

Map of geographic area in which Khazad-dûm lies & article on Khazad-dûm history – HERE (http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/k/khazaddum.html)

Geography & History of Khazad-dûm/Moria - HERE (http://www.tuckborough.net/moria.html)

The layout of Moria based on LotR quotes - HERE (http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?t=126670)

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Links to various articles on Tolkien Dwarves:

The Encyclopedia of Arda: Dwarves (http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/d/dwarves.html)

Tolkien Gateway Wiki: Dwarves (http://tolkiengateway.net/wiki/Dwarves)

Dwarves - Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dwarf) - Click on Dwarves(Middle Earth) once you've accessed this page.

Them Dwarves, Them Dwarves (Suite 101 article) (http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/tolkien/28918/1)

Them Dwarves, Them Dwarves II (Suite 101 article) (http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/tolkien/29244)

Where Tolkien Got His Dwarf-names From (http://axebow.hakaze.com/char/edda.htm)

How Dwarves Age - HERE (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=573034&postcount=44)

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Barrow-Downs' Threads

Dwalin the Dwarf - @ ages of Dwarves - HERE (http://www.forum.barrowdowns.com/showthread.php?t=14302)

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The Dwarvish language - Khuzdul (http://folk.uib.no/hnohf/khuzdul.htm); in addition to this secretive spoken language, the Dwarves also had a secret hand language/gesture code called Iglishmêk

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Parts of an axe - for all you axe-loving Dwarves can be found HERE (http://www.gransfors.com/htm_eng/yxboken/bok24.htm).

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Some Dwarvish Equivalents for Sindarin or Westron terms:

Mahal - Dwarvish name of Aulë, the Vala who created the Dwarves

Sigin-tarâg - "the Longbeards"; Durin’s Folk, the oldest of the 7 clans/Houses of the Dwarves

Uzbad Khazaddûmu – Lord of Khazad-dûm (Balin, in this RPG)

~*~

Azanulbizar - "Dimrill Dale"; in Sindarin Nanduhirion

Khazad-dûm - "Dwarrowdelf"; in Sindarin Hadhodrond then renamed Moria (The Black Chasm) when the Dwarves deserted it

Kheled-zâram - "Mirrormere"

Kibil-nâla - "Silverlode River”; in Sindarin the River Celebrant

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The three great peaks in The Misty Mountains which topped Khazad-dûm:

Barazinbar - "Redhorn", one of the mountains over Moria; in Sindarin Caradhras

Bundushathur - "Cloudyhead", one of the mountains above Moria; in Sindarin Fanuidhol

Zirak-zigil - "Silvertine", one of the mountains over Moria; in Sindarin CelebdilThe

[piosenniel]

Timeframes:

This game takes place in the Third Age at around year 2994.

The storyline itself or plot covers 1 week, plus 1 Day (or longer if need be).


This game requires a time commitment of eight months from me, the game owner and from the major players, (but we're not too sure about this).

[piosenniel]

Types of characters needed:

Dwarves, lots and lots of Dwarves! Specifically dwarves from the Iron Hills and Erebor, and I think that rogue Dwarves would be fine. Dwarf children and women are welcome in this game. (Please note that we have decided to have no beards for the females.)

All characters for this RPG will be of the Dwarven species.

Six male characters, with a maximum of three females and two children. We can be flexible if the number is higher than we expected.

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*** We have two Dwarves that are mentioned by Tolkien as being part of the colony, but we don’t have any information from Tolkien on. If any of the players want to take them as their own and interpret how they might have been, we’d happy to see them doing so.

These Dwarves' names are: Lóni and Náli.

NOTE: Lóni and Náli die off rather quickly in the Twenty-First Hall. It might be a good idea if someone wants to take up a secondary character as well.

[piosenniel]

Character types which would not belong: Anything that isn’t a Dwarf.

[piosenniel]

NOTE: First Posts for your characters are NOT required for this game – just your Character Descriptions.

[piosenniel]

PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST

Groin Redbeard – Trór 140 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572076&postcount=11); Nîsa 87 y/o (http://www.forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572076&postcount=11); Nali 227 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=574287&postcount=100)

Thinlómien - Ori 194 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572077&postcount=12); Vigdis 147 y/o (http://www.forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=574207&postcount=93)

Legate of Amon Lanc - Óin son of Gróin 220 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572078&postcount=13); Onli 126 y/o with Vriti, his pet ferret (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=574029&postcount=81); Lóni (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=575035&postcount=126)



Gwathagor - Frar 175 y/o; Buri 85 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572703&postcount=27)

Durelin - Kór 88 y/o; Kórin 92 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572658&postcount=19)

Lilly - Lilly – Lys 87 y/o; Tív & Tíva 7 y/o (secondary characters) (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572671&postcount=21)

Arry - Vitr 101 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572678&postcount=23); Tív & Tíva (secondary characters with Lilly)

Dimturiel - Bain 80 y/o (http://www.forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572822&postcount=33)

Kitanna - Iari 10 y/o; Kéni 20 y/o (secondary character) (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=573278&postcount=63)

Folwren - Kénan 210 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=573282&postcount=64)

Boromir88 - Gror 95 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=573315&postcount=66), messenger from Erebor

Himaran - Dalin 100 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=573866&postcount=76)

Ilya - Adela 52 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=573869&postcount=78)

Kath - Svior 130 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=574234&postcount=97); Hepti 125 y/o (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=574236&postcount=98)

[piosenniel]

Groin Redbeard’s character:

NAME: Trór

AGE: 140 years old

RACE: Dwarf

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: Trór is capable of using anything as a weapon, he is proficient in his skills with the axe, sword and spear. When fighting scattered enemies he favors a shield and a spear for thrusting. When the fighting gets dense, Trór takes up his strong single edged axe.

APPEARANCE: With an extremely strong build he stands at average height with a strong upper torso. Tror wears a braided, thick, dark brown beard and has a bushy brow. His eyes are piercing in nature and look as if they can read a man's thoughts. His face has the appearance of one who has seen many arduous trials.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Trór is loyal, trustworthy, dedicated, gruff, tough and is always prepared to sacrifice himself for a cause. For the most part he is blunt and callous, but can also be quiet and understanding at times. A leader in warfare he leaves no room for error and demands perfection from his colleagues.

Most of the time his ego gets in the way of what’s important. He has a temper that can explode at anytime and he tends to take his troubles out on the people that he loves. Although he is content with peace and quiet, he is a warrior first and his true home is on the battlefield.

HISTORY: Trór was born in the Iron Hills while under the leadership of Náin, and later Dain II Ironfoot. As a young Dwarf he was dedicated to learning ancient lore and maintaining his great physical fitness. It was not easy living in the mountains in those days, it was home to many fowl creatures not found in the south and when alone outside the protection of the great halls one had to be extremely careful. This rough lifestyle toughened him up physically and emotionally.

Náin issued forth one day from the Iron Hills to come to the aid of Thráin in the war between Dwarves and the Orcs. Trór was bitterly disappointed at missing this opportunity to fight for his king. Nevertheless, his disappointment did not stop him from harkening to the tales of the warriors that had fought there.

When he became of age (33 according to Dwarf custom) he became a soldier and was immediately singled out as a hard and tough disciplinarian and perfectionist. This attitude soon got him a promotion, now he was leading Dwarves instead of being led.

Trór fought in The Battle of the Five Armies with many other notable Dwarves such as Thorin, Glóin, Óri, Óin and Balin. The battle was Trór's first great test as a leader and warrior. During the battle, as a sea of Goblins and Wargs swarmed about them, he and his Dwarves stood like a rock. He was unmovable, despite being wounded twice by Goblin arrows (thankfully they weren't poisoned). After the battle he was privileged to meet Óri and Óin, he took an immediate like to them and they worked long and hard together under the rule of King Dain.

Erebor would be his home for around fifty years, and he was in a prominent position with the king and his counselors but the splendor and wealth of Erebor under King Dain’s rule was not enough for him, he wanted to restore the Dwarven race to it’s former prominence of old. At Erebor Trór became acquainted with Balin and several other Dwarfs such as Loni and Nali. Together Balin confided in them (including Óin and Óri) a plan to take back the great Dwarf colony of Khazad-Dum. Trór met his proposal with enthusiasm and did all that he could to help his new friend.

Together they drove out the hordes of Orcs the dark halls and accumulated wealth. When the colony was once again theirs, Balin appointed Trór as his second in command. Honored by this appointment, Trór did all that he could to help things run smoothly in Khazad-Dum. However, even after five years of a well lived life in the colony he can’t seem to shake a feeling of foreboding of a terror that has been rumored to still lurk in the shadows.

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

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Secondary Character


Name: Nîsa

AGE: 87

RACE: Dwarf

GENDER: Female

WEAPONS: Has never wielded a true weapon in her life, but has taken up the mattock to help with the work in the mines.

APPEARANCE: She stands a little shorter than the average Dwarf an has long dark hair. Her girth is normal for a Dwarf: thick and heavy, but is not at all unfit.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Nîsa is a kind and caring maiden to her people, devoted to the well being of others. She is a cook and somewhat of a healer, using the moss and roots that grow underneath the mountains.

She is currently in search of a husband and desperately wants to be loved by someone and to on day have children, but she has yet to find a Dwarf whom she loves. Nîsa is an outgoing maiden and is quite friendly to all who know her.

HISTORY: Nîsa is the youngest cousin of Trór and grew up with him in the Iron Hills. Her life for the most part was uneventful living like a typical Dwarf, but all that changed when she moved to Erebor at the request of her cousin. She was immediately taken in by Trór and was given a position of authority with the other ladies of the of the colony because of her family ties and her skills as a healer.

Nîsa became well acquainted with Óri and Óin when she settled in Erebor. On day Trór came to her with the news of his departure with a large army of Dwarves bound on a quest to the kingdom of Khazad-dum. She was saddened at her cousins’ departure with many of her friends and soon made up her mind to brave the dangers and follow him.

With the other Dwarves, she helped to rebuild the ancient city and met a Dwarf named Frar in the process. Nîsa is very happy in her new home and has no intention on leaving anytime soon.


LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[piosenniel]

Thinlómien’s character:

NAME: Ori

AGE: 194 years

RACE: Dwarf

GENDER: male

WEAPONS: Ori's old broad-bladed axe is simple and well made. He also carries two knives made by himself, one being about seven inches long and the other barely three inches but very sharp. These are designed to be tools more than weapons, though.

APPEARANCE: Ori's hair and beard used to be yellow, but partial greying has turned them into a dirty, unflattering colour. His eyes are brown with a hint of green. He's of average height and thin but strongly built. Despite his wealth, Ori prefers wearing simple clothes, although he has a soft spot for silver embroidery. He is most often seen in a grey cloak and a black or brown tunic. Even though he aknowledges its utility, Ori dislikes his chain mail and doesn't wear armour unless it's absolutely necessary.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Ori has always been rather quiet and reserved and has become a little grumpy as he has got older. Ori is not friendly, but he treats his friends well and is loyal to them. He is not easily angered, but his hatred is deep. He is often able to keep his calm while others are too grieved or furious to think rationally. He has never been particularily ambitious or greedy, but enjoys all the amenities wealth and fame have brought him. He values simplicity in life more than most other Dwarves yet still delights in objects of beauty and possessing them. As a craftsman, Ori is an ironsmith and his works reflect his values: they are simple yet beautiful.

Traveling has given Ori special skills and experiences that are not very common amongst his people: he has some idea how to survive in the wild and he is used to being content with very little. He is good with his trusted axe although he has never indentified himself as a warrior, and he is handy with a knife, thanks to his nimble fingers. Ori is a learned man and has an interest in history. Going through old documents, he has come across the Elvish script and seeing it as a more practical and aesthetic way of writing, he has adopted it and used it ever since. Another special skill of Ori's is playing the flute.

Ori is not socially gifted nor empathetic and he often loses patience with people who don't understand him or think too differently from how he does. Like any Dwarf, he is too easily motivated by greed or vengeance. He is also easily suspicious or envious of other people, and although he is not proud, he dislikes admitting his mistakes or apologising. Ori has always been rather uncomfortable around women and does not like them. He believes them to be inferior to men and doesn't take them seriously.

HISTORY: Ori was born in the early spring of year 2800 as the eldest son of an ironsmith. Soon he got younger twin brothers, Dori and Nori. All the three were brought up to their father's profession and while they did well enough in it, they never developed a particular interest in it. They never had a particularily warm relationship with their father anyway, as he was a strong supporter of Thráin's but mistrusted Thorin, who was much revered by Ori, Dori and Nori. It was indeed partly because of their will to prove their old father wrong that they joined the quest of Erebor.

The quest of Erebor became the turning point of Ori's life. It forced Ori to look at life differently and it made him and his brothers move to Erebor, and also suddenly made them rich men. There was no need for iron-working anymore unless they desired it. After the reconstruction of the Kingdom under the Mountain, iron-working did become a mere pastime to Ori, and he focused on books and ancient records in which he had lately taken interest. His life was happy, and as he grew older he started to wonder if that was how he'd spend the rest of his life.

But life had one more adventure in store for him. His old friend Balin started talking about the recolonisation of Moria, and by 2989 he was leaving. Even though his brothers were objecting, Ori decided to go with him. His loyalty to Balin was deep, and the old records he had gone through had awakened in him a great desire to see the great Khazad-dûm and help to rebuild it to reach its glory of old.

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LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[piosenniel]

Legate of Amon Lanc’s character:

NAME: Óin son of Gróin

AGE: 220

RACE: Dwarf of Durin's Folk

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: Short broad sword made of steel, forged in Dáin the King's forges under the Mountain. A curved knife he keeps behind his belt. He has also a shortbow of oakwood, which he does not carry with him all the time, and a quiver of currently fourteen arrows he does not redeplete.

APPEARANCE: Óin is not very tall for a Dwarf, maybe a bit shorter than average. He is heavyset, but he was never particularly fat, even during his rich years in Erebor, and the stay in Moria did not help it much. He wears a short white beard and has almost shoulder-long white hair. He has bright blue eyes and wears brown hooded cloak, almost all the time having a light chain shirt underneath it, except when sleeping, but even that may change under drastic circumstances. Besides that, he has a leather cap which protects his ears, and sometimes wears with it an iron skull cap of dwarven warriors.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Óin is a true scout. He is very curious, but also stealthy, cautious, but at times also reckless and not thinking well enough in advance and not evaluating all possibilities. His personality is rather quiet generally, but when it comes to him, he can get really angry and start a fight because of otherwise unimportant things. He is stubborn, most of all, and when he chooses to do something, nobody will convince him otherwise. This played a role in his choice to go with Balin to reclaim Moria.

Óin is not very clever nor he has especially good memory, but there are certain things he remembers well and which simply stuck in his mind. He has a very good orientation sense and good memory when it comes to "architectonic" things: he can remember blueprints, he can even make them, he remembers instructions for various processes and is capable of thinking of directions needed to take to reach certain goal. He is not capable of that much manual work, unless it is connected with some mechanic work which follows a certain set of actions.

He is very good in making fire, he can light a fire almost in any circumstances even with the smallest bit of resources. He always carries a tinder-box with him, what more, he usually has one in reserve had he lost the first one, and that one he is carrying in his backpack (the other one is in his belt pouch).

HISTORY: Óin was born in 2774 TA and spent his childhood in Dunland, where he lived with his family among the folk of Thráin son of Thrór in exile. When he was 25 (very young still), he fought alongside his father in Azanulbizar. Thus, he was in the first assault lead by Thráin, and was among the others pushed back into the wood, and there he was separated from his father, as a large group of swift Orcs split the Dwarves. There he saw his uncle Fundin fall to a large Orc, who was later killed by Balin, who alone remained with Óin in the end, pushed to the corner by goblins, until Thráin came to their aid with Dwalin and others. At that time, Náin's folk at least came, and the Orcs were pushed back, but Óin did not rejoin his father until the end of the battle, and he did not see the battle in front of the gate when Azog was slain, and they were battling the Orcs who first assailed, but later tried to defend themselves in the woods, and they were there all night. Thráin had one eye blinded, and Óin was slashed to his arm by a poisoned Orc scimitar, and he nearly fainted. But by the morning, everything was well, and they joined the victors.

Óin was slightly disappointed when the Dwarves did not reclaim Khazad-Dûm after the victory in Azanulbizar, but his father was serious and told him that he is too young and too rash to understand, reminding him also of the death of his uncle.

In the following years, Óin was living with Balin and the rest of Thráin and Thorin's folk in Dunland, but shortly after they moved to the Blue Mountains. Óin partially did, but partially did not like that change: they could not see anymore the Mountains of Moria in clear morning air; they were longing for that sight, but at the same time they knew how it hurt to see them and know that underneath them, the halls of their fathers lie dark and empty.

Half a century later, Thráin left with several companions for a journey; Óin stayed behind, despite his good friend Balin went, too. But some time later, Balin and the others returned, saying that they lost Thráin. Since then, Balin seemed a bit different, but Óin kept close to him. Nothing interesting was happening until the time when Thorin Oakenshield gathered those of his folk for the journey to Erebor. Óin and his brother Glóin were there, too, and they got to know Bilbo Baggins, and went as far as Erebor and after Smaug's death, they fought in the Battle of the Five Armies alongside Thorin. This was for the second time when Óin fought alongside Balin surrounded by a host of enemies, and saw his friends die.

For the following half a century, he lived in Erebor, helping in arranging the trade with the Lake-Town and the rebuilding of the town of Dale. When the power and splendor of the Kingdom under the Mountain grew, many started to talk about re-occupying Moria. Óin was among those who accepted this from the beginning, he wanted to visit Khazad-Dûm and see for himself what treasures may lie there. And when Balin agreed to go, he was among those who wasted no time to join him and go.

During their first days there, Óin once again fought alongside Balin, but this time as victorious returned exiles, they claimed the Chamber of Mazarbul and Óin explored all the chambers he could, he went alone on several expeditions, supported by knowledge from old records provided by Ori. The most important was his discovery of the upper armouries on Third Deep.


LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[piosenniel]

FIRST POST FOR THE GAME:

From the quill of loremaster Drok . . .

Here in lies the tale of the realm of Khazad-dûm, and the dwarves, who with Balin, son of Fundin, set out on a quest to drive the Orcs out of their ancient colony in hopes of restoring the colony to its former glory. Before it became a place of dread and the Eldar renamed it Moria: The Black Chasm. The tale that you are about to read is about the final days of Balin's glorious re-conquering of Khazad-dûm and of the brave Dwarves who travelled with him. Among these most notable of dwarves were Oin, brother of Gloin, and Ori, the scribe of the company and Balin’s good friend. Many years before Oin and Ori had travelled with Balin on Thorin Oakenshield’s quest for Erebor. The bold quest has also been answered by the call of many warriors: Loni and Nali, brothers, who were also joined by Frar and Floi, fabled for their skill with the axe and bow. The mightiest of those to answer the call was Tror, lieutenant to Balin on the quest. Many other followers came with Balin, but there number is too numerable to be listed here with due respect, and the heart could not bear the pain to recant what has become of them, but let us not be getting ahead of ourselves.

Let me start at the beginning. My name is Drok, a lore master and once scribe of King Dain. I have been charged with telling you this tale to preserve the memory of my kinsman. This tale took place many decades ago when I was young, a mere scribe in the service of the king. It was many years ago that Balin called together the high council of Erebor, he would not reveal the intent of the meeting but insisted that the it was of the highest importance and that the King call for one to convene at the earliest time possible. So it was late at night, deep under the roof of the mountain that Balin revealed a plan of magnanimous proportions: to conquer, nay, take back the city of Khazad-dûm that Men call Dwarrowdelf and the Elves, Moria. King Dain met Balin’s plan with dismay and pronounced that it cannot be, though the entire council was against him. Through many arguments and rash words Dain reasoned with the nobles and won most of them back on his side, but when the King saw that Balin's will was still adamant, he pleaded with his friend to forget the futile idea. It is worth noting at this moment that it was he, Dain II Ironfoot, who long ago had fought in the great battle of Azanulbizar on the very threshold of Khazad-dûm, and dared to look past the gate into the ancient realm. King Dain had long ago prophesized that another power, greater than the dwarves, would have to come before Durin’s Folk could again settle in the halls of their fathers. However, Balin was unmoved by the king’s words and insisted that it could be done and the threat that had loomed there before had long been gone. Such passion was aroused in the in some of the nobles that Dain dared not hinder them lest the gap between them grow wider. Thus it was that Balin set out from Erebor with a mighty company of dwarves all bound for Khazad-dûm, but without King Dain’s blessing. The king grieved for the departure of his friend, knowing that the quest could not meet any other destiny but ruin.

It was after many days and nights of traveling they came within sight of the hallowed mountains, in ages long past their ancestors had called home. Thus it was that the host came to the Eastern gate, surprised and slew the Orc garrison gathered there. The dwarves rushed into their new home with hopes and anger running high. They swarmed over The Bridge of Khazad-dûm before the Orcs could gather in sufficient numbers to repel them and fought their way, through the First and Second Halls, to the Twenty-First Hall where a great melee ensued. Floi fell in the battle, but so great was the fury and might of the dwarves at his death that no Orc opposed them for long. It was lastly the Goblin Chief sprang from his lair in a desperate attempt to drive Balin out or kill him in the attempt, but Balin proved the better fighter, he was on sacred ground and nothing would drive him from it. So it was that Balin slew the great Goblin Chieftain and a great rout began to take place as the Orcs tried to scatter, no Orc ever dared enter Khazad-dûm again for five years.

It was after this victory that Balin found the Axe and Helm of Durin cast aside in some heap of rubble, discarded by the Orcs in fear of its memory. The relics were handled with the greatest of reverence, steel of the helm was undimmed and the blades of the axe were still sharp, and Balin claimed these for his own. A throne was erected in the Chamber of Mazarbul and it was with the greatest joy that the dwarves proclaimed Balin their King, Uzbad Khazaddûmu, lord of Khazad-dûm!

Balin’s people went to work in the following years repairing the evil wrought by the Orcs. Many chambers and halls were explored and the mines were once again being worked in. The halls of Khazad-dûm shone again with a brilliant light and the grander of days long past had been restored. There it was that delver mined and the mason built, weapons were made and gems were uncovered; but of the greatest of all these delights was the true substance for which Khazad-dûm was known for: Mithril, true silver was once again uncovered.

For years there was great prosperity, the miner worked with joy, the graver renewed the faded words and symbols upon the pillars and gates, and the smith made many weapons of great quality. Many expeditions were sent to explore farther and the dwarves mined in deep shafts that were long forgotten. Thus it was that Oin, son of Groin, made plans with Balin to set out from the Twenty- First hall in search of the armories of the Third Deep. It was not until many weeks later that Oin returned with new that he had driven the last remaining remnant of the Orcs from Khazad-dûm, and he returned with scores of weapons and armour from the armouries of the Third Deep.

It was on November the 10th, in the year 2994 of the Third Age that Balin ushered forth from Khazad-dûm, accompanied by his closest companions, to look upon Kheled-zâram, that Men call Mirrormere, a lake at the mouth of Azanulbizar, the Dimrill Dale. It was at this lake that Durin the Deathless the Father of Durin’s People, looked into the water of Kheled-zâram and saw a crown of stars above his head, and it was he who founded the great city of Khazad-dûm.

It had been nearly five years since the dwarves drove the Orcs out of the halls. Everything was as it was in the days of Durin, but it would be short lived. The Orcs of the Misty Mountains had been stirred by rumors of wealth that the dwarves had accumulated during their stay; an army had been mustered and was marching on the Eastern gate that very day. Yet something far more fearful had been aroused in the depths of Khazad-dûm’s mines, Durin’s Bane was aroused and his anger was great.

May it please you gentle reader to hear now the recounting of Balin, son of Fundin, and the brave dwarves who accompanied him. Draw closer to my fire and harken to the tale of my kinsman and how they gave their last full measure of courage in the halls of Khazad-dûm.

~ Groin Redbeard

[piosenniel]

Use the following form for constructing your character. Post it completed on the Discussion Thread.

Please Note: In order to play in a Barrow-Downs' RPG you must have previously posted in one of the Inns in the RPG Forums here or have played in an RPG in the Downs RPG Forums.

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

What Inn, Mead Hall, or RPG in the Shire, Rohan, or Gondor have you played in?



Character Description Form:


(Your-Name)'s character

NAME:

AGE:

RACE:

GENDER:

WEAPONS (No magical, super-hero, mithril weapons. Just good solid Middle-earth weapons and armor only that is appropriate to the race of the character and the time period.):

APPEARANCE:

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

HISTORY:

[piosenniel]

This Discussion Thread will open for posting on November 10th, sometime in the morning U.S. Pacific Time.

Until then, please read the RPG proposal thoroughly and develop a character you'd like to play in this game. Once the Discussion Thread opens go ahead and post your Character Description form to it.

Thanks!

~*~ piosenniel (Pio), RPG moderator

[piosenniel]

The discussion thread is now open to take on players for this game.

Have fun!!!!!

~*~ Pio

[Groin Redbeard]

Thanks so much Pio!:D

Alright, *bangs gavel on the table*;) I guess the first order of business would be to have all the players who Lommy and I have contacted through PMs to and get their character biography's in. All the other newcomers can take a look at the information that Pio, Lommy, and I have obtained and to go check out the first post of the game.

Looking forward to playing with ya'll and to reading those character biography's!:D

P.S. Don't forget, if you need a player, or just need a Dwarf name, we still have two characters Nali and Loni who could be taken up as characters.

[Durelin]

Well, I am going to be quite greedy and obnoxious and submit for two roles. If need be, I can determine which is a secondary character, but at the moment I'm really not sure, so... Anyway, I also hope that a combined history for the two, a pair of siblings, is alright.


NAME: Kór

AGE: 88

RACE: Dwarf, Longbeard from the Iron Hills

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: He bears a simple one-handed axe on his belt on his left side, and three small throwing axes on his right.

APPEARANCE: Kór is of average dwarf height who carries some excess weight around his middle. His beard is a fiery orange and is not very long but very thick. He bears a single braid down the middle of it. The hair on his head is both thick and long, falling almost to his waste. He keeps it out of his eyes by braiding a section in the middle of his head. His eyes are dark brown. His nose is slightly squashed-looking like his mother’s. Kór wears chainmail over a brown leather hauberk, with dark brown studded leather leggings, boots, and gloves, and hard, studded leather spaulders. Strapped on his back is a thick, soft leather bag containing a small (folk) harp.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Kór is a fairly quiet and reserved dwarf, though he always has a smile ready for anyone. He is naturally rather cheery and optimistic for a dwarf, and enjoys uplifting spirits. His true love is music, and he often plays his harp. He never sings, but is happy to play while others do. He does compose his own tunes, normally only pieces at a time, in addition to knowing some traditional melodies. He makes an appearance of being reluctant to play in front of others, but he truly enjoys any opportunity to do so. And often Kór will simply pull out his harp and play to himself. Kór is not one to share his opinions and certainly not his feelings – not even anger most of the time, though if he feels someone has slighted him he will seethe over it and bear a grudge forever. His confidence in anything other than his ability with the harp is lacking, and he often is overshadowed by his sister’s personality. Like all dwarves, he is not lacking on the battlefield, though he is nowhere near the quickest to the fight. He is slow to make decisions in general, though he rarely regrets those he makes.

~

NAME: Kórin

AGE: 92

RACE: Dwarf, Longbeard from the Iron Hills

GENDER: Female

WEAPONS: On her belt she carries a one-handed mace on her left side and a knife on her right.

APPEARANCE: Kórin is a little shorter than her brother, but more muscular. Her hair is the same fiery orange as her brother’s and is even longer with five braided sections amidst the loose, thick hair. She has a very prominent nose – her father’s nose. She also has dark brown eyes. She wears a dark brown studded leather hauberk, and thick black leather leggings, boots, and gloves. She also wears a dark grey cloak.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Kórin is a very boisterous dwarf. She loves good ale, good food, good pipeweed, games, gambling, tricks, jokes, and a good laugh. She shows affection largely through insults. She especially gives her brother a hard time, though she wishes he would dish back the same more often. She actually has a very nice singing voice (she is a contralto). She will sometimes sing while her bother plays the harp, but not often, for she is fonder of livelier music with fiddles and the like. Kórin is as quick to anger as most dwarves, though she also happens to be as quick to forgive or at least to forget. She has more of a fighter’s nature in her than her brother, but she does not act rashly. She can be very calculating and cunning when she wants to be.



COMBINED HISTORY: Kór and Kórin’s father, Grundin, came from the Iron Hills to aid in the War of the Dwarves and Orcs in 2799. Though he afterward returned to his home in the Iron Hills with his wife, Grundin followed Dain II to Erebor for the Battle of the Five Armies. He decided to settle at Erebor, where his wife and two young children later joined him. While their father protested he was much too old (and certainly the two do not expect to see their father again should they return to the Lonely Mountain, even soon), Kórin was most enthusiastic about following Balin to truly re-conquer Khazad-dûm. Kór, who was always quietly protective of Kórin though she is his elder, would not let her go without him.


Thanks very much for reading and considering my bios!

-Dury

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LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Thinlómien]

Yes, indeed - welcome everybody, don't be afraid to approach this thread: this will be a marvellous RPG. :D

Durelin - I've said this already, but your bios are great. :)

Oh, and I thought I'd mention - I'm going to take up a secondary character as well, but I don't want to decide anything before I know what kind of party we're going to have.

Other than that, I have little to say right now. All kinds of comments, questions and character bios are warmly welcome.

[Lilly]

Here are my characters for your consideration. :) Arry will be bringing his character (Vitr) in soon.

We'll both play the child characters as secondaries.

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

Lilly’s characters:

Wife/Mother

NAME: Lys Silverfist

AGE: 87

RACE: Dwarf - Firebeard House

GENDER: Female

WEAPONS: Her quick wit. Does have a knife she uses for skinning. Wields a big marble rolling pin when she bakes – a good, stout clout from it could put a healthy dent in a foe’s skull or hobble him if aimed at the kneecaps

APPEARANCE: About 4 ft tall, sturdy build, coppery red hair worn in two long plaits down her back. Round, pleasant face; brown eyes. Favors dark blue, woolen dresses, mid-calf length. Soft, dark brown leather knee-high boots. Supple leather knee-length apron with three spacious pockets – worn for cooking and working on her little enameled jewelry pieces.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Even tempered for the most part; does have a spark of the well-known fiery temper of the Firebeards when pushed too hard. Good sense of humor; loves to sing. Good cook; deft hand working precious metals into intricate pieces of jewelry. Her strength is rooted in her family; they are also her greatest weakness as she would do anything to keep them safe.

HISTORY: Lys’ family, the Forgefires, were part of a small bevy of Firebeards who affiliated themselves with the Longbeards in Erebor. She married Vitr Silverfist of the Longbeard House when she was 70 years old. Their first child, a daughter, died in infancy. She had little hope of having another, it seemed, as the years passed without a child blossoming in her belly. At the age of 80, by the grace of Mahal, she and Vitr became the parents of a lively pair of twins - Tív and Tíva When the children were 2 years old, she and Vitr moved south with those of the Longbeard House who were seeking to reclaim Khazad-dum. Tales of gems and vast veins of true-silver made them hopeful that they could build up a bit of wealth for their family.

_______________________________________

Son

NAME: Tív Silverfist

AGE: 7

RACE: Dwarf – Longbeard House

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: slingshot; stout wood short sword

APPEARANCE: Wiry build, about 2 ½ ft tall; dark chestnut hair worn short, above his collar, usually tousled. Brown eyed. Wears tunics and short leg breeches – old and tattered, comfortable, if not directed otherwise by his mother.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Bright, cheerful personality; inquisitive. Energetic; likes to go on ‘adventures’. Sometimes exceeds the limits of his abilities and winds up getting hurt. Loves sweets. His sister is his best friend and confidante.

HISTORY: Does not recall much of his first two years or the travel from Erebor to Khazad-dûm. These five years since his family’s arrival at the halls beneath the three great peaks have been filled with adventure and delight.

_______________________________________

Daughter

NAME: Tíva Silverfist

AGE: 7

RACE: Dwarf – Longbeard House

GENDER: Female

WEAPONS: Quick on her feet; an expert at hide-and-seek; slingshot and a bag of rounded pebbles of various sizes.

APPEARANCE: Same build as her brother – wiry, about 2 ½ feet tall. Her hair is chestnut, also, but with a few more fiery highlights than her brother’s. She wears it long, in two thick braids. Prefers the same tunics and short-leg breeches as her brother. Will, with some coaxing, put on a dress for special occasions.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: She is for the most part a sunny-dispositioned child, but one who is more reticent than her brother. A cautious person. Willing to go on adventures, but likes to have something of a ‘plan’ in place. She has a wicked sense of humor at times and loves to pull practical jokes on her family. She finds her brother an especially gullible target.

HISTORY: Does not differ much from her brother’s. She loves her brother fiercely and will defend him with words, and fists if need be.
____________________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Wow, it indeed seems great and like an interesting party (need to read the biographies deeper, though. Just skimmed through them). This rp looks really promising!

And seeing that everybody takes two characters, I am thinking of taking one more, too. After all, Óin dies already before the final encounter. I was thinking about Lóni or Náli if nobody takes them, but that would be the last resort - really just if nobody wants them. But like Lommy, I will probably see what kind of folks we have around here, and according to that pick some second.

[Arry]

So, I hope you find this Dwarf will be acceptable for the game. Looking forward to playing!

Arry’s character

NAME: Vitr Silverfist

AGE: 101

RACE: Dwarf – Longbeard House

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: Mattock; for battles in larger, more open spaces, he bears an oak hafted pole axe with a razor sharp edged steel head. Iron helm embossed with runes; long chain mail; thick boiled leather vest; plated arm and leg guards

APPEARANCE: 4’ 6”; 155 lbs, thickset build. Weathered face; merry dark blue eyes with a great tangle of eyebrow above each; an easy smile. Brown hair worn in one long plait down his back and bound with a leather thong. Thick brown beard, worn in two braids on either side of his chin, when working, he tucks the ends under his belt. Dark brown breeches, tan tunic. Thick brown leather belt with loops hanging from it – he carries some of his hammers and other tools in it. Black leather knee high boots, well worn, thick soled. Granite grey, hooded cape.

PERSONALITY: Vitr’s family is at the center of his life, the most precious jewels in the setting of his sense of self. He cannot imagine a life without them.

He is for the most part a calm, thoughtful man – not one quick to anger, save where his family is threatened. And then he can become a fierce and savage foe of any who threaten harm to them.

Vitr is a patient craftsman in all his avenues of endeavor, from stone masonry to gemwork to the crafting of truesilver. The last is his most favorite sort of work, be it finely spun jewelry or the more substantial, protective pieces of mail.

He takes great pride in the fact that he is one of Durin’s Folk, a Longbeard. He has a great sense of responsibility with respect to his clan and feels a definite sense of duty toward his Lord, Balin.

HISTORY: Shortly after Erebor was reclaimed by Thorin II Oakenshield in III 2941, Vitr’s father moved his family from the Iron Hills to the Kingdom under the Mountain. Vitr was a young man of 48 years at that time. Under his father’s steady hand, he learned the skills that helped him to become the craftsman he is today. At the age of 84, he met and married Lys. And ten years later he became the father of twins – a boy, Tív and a girl, Tíva.

Vitr was glad to follow Balin southwards from Erebor to the old stronghold of the Longbeards, Khazad-dûm. He had felt then it would be a good place for him to establish his stature as craftsman and would be a fine, secure home for his family. And it has been, for the most part. But now he is not as sure about that security as reports of Orc intrusions into the area about the East-gate are increasing.

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

Secondary child characters - Tív & Tíva with Lilly (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572671&postcount=21)
_________________________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Thinlómien]

Welcome onboard, Lilly and Arry! Your characters look great. :)

[Lilly]

:)

Thanks! Looking forward to playing with you all!

[Groin Redbeard]

Great character bio Arry and Lilly, that was really smart to combine characters like that.:D Durelin, glad to have you on board, love your bio!:D

When more people start coming in I'll give some general information on how the game will begin so that you will have a better idea of how to write your post.

[Gwathagor]

NAME: Frar

AGE: 175

RACE: Dwarf

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: Large double-edged ax

APPEARANCE: Massively built: tall, broad, and strong. An imposing figure. He is of great girth, but not at all fat or flabby; he is almost exclusively bone, muscle, and beard. Very long and thick black hair, pulled back behind his shoulders, but un-braided. Thick graying black beard, also very long. FRAR DOES NOT LOOK LIKE HAGRID. Expel that particular mental image immediately! Green eyes. Thoughtful facial features. In battle, wears a shirt of heavy chain mail, a blue tunic, and no helmet.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: A noble and jovial spirit: courageous, expansive, selfless, generous, and determined. Kingly in nature. Incapable of admitting defeat. Loves conversation, but dislikes small talk. A booming laugh. Can out-eat or drink anyone.

HISTORY: A renowned warrior. Distinguished himself in The Battle of Five Armies. Following the restoration of the King under the Mountain, he continued to roam the countryside as part of the King's patrols, pursuing the enemies of the Mountain: goblins, wargs, bandits, etc. These have increased in number in recent years. Frar has fought in many battles, and received many scars. Old, but showing no signs of weakening.

----

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio


*****


NAME:Buri

AGE: 85

APPEARANCE: Dark-brown hair, blue eyes, dark green cloak and hood, sturdy leather belt and boots, heavy brown tunic.

WEAPONS: Only the spear and short sword given him at the beginning of the expedition.

PERSONALITY: A cheerful, friendly dwarf, relatively inexperienced, with a lack of confidence about anything that does not pertain to his smith-work. He takes great pride in his work. Very practical and plain-spoken. Generally quiet.

HISTORY: Not a warrior - a smith. His family travelled from the Iron Hills to Erebor following The Battle of Five Armies. He learned the smith trade from his father, and is moderately skilled at his work. Was recruited by one of the members of the expedition to help maintain tools, arms, and armor on the expeditin to Khazad-dum. This will be only the second time in his life that he has left home.

---

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Gwathagor]

http://axebow.hakaze.com/char/edda.htm

[piosenniel]

Gwathagor

Thanks for the preceding link on where Tolkien got his Dwarf-names from.

I put it on the Shire Thread "Resources for RPG's" as well as in the Links post (#5 (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572069&postcount=5)) for this RPG.

~*~ Pio

[Folwren]

Right-ho, well, I'm definitely playing now that I see both Arry and Durelin are on board and those two were both in my first game and both launched me into my roleplaying days.

I have not thought at all on my character...maybe characterS, but I kind of doubt it. I will get a bio up hopefully within the next couple of days.

-- Folwren

[Durelin]

Woo, definitely looking forward to playing with all of you!! It's always a pleasure to RP with you, Folwren, and I'm very glad to see you again, Arry! :D And hey, you're dwarves again. ;)

When more people start coming in I'll give some general information on how the game will begin so that you will have a better idea of how to write your post.

So we will be writing first posts? I have no objection to this at all, (I mean, I'm used to them), but it does say in the game info above:

NOTE: First Posts for your characters are NOT required for this game – just your Character Descriptions

Doesn't matter to me which it is, but just want to know what I need to start thinking about.

Thanks!

[Thinlómien]

There are no official first posts, like this thread states. I think Groin was merely referring to first game posts or the point we're starting from...

And welcome, Folwren! Great to be writing with you once again. :)

[Dimturiel]

Well, here I am and here's my character bio. I've been working on it since last night only I did not have time to post it until now.

NAME: Bain

AGE: 80

RACE: Dwarf

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: A short axe, although he can be handy with a knife as well.

APPEARANCE: He is of average height and well built. He has long brown hair which tends to get tangled very easily. His eyes are clear dark blue.

PERSONALITY/ STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: He is usually of a quiet disposition-unless he is drinking with his friends, a thing he is most fond of doing. He is not very much of a practical thinker and gives no thoughts to the consequences of his actions. Actually, he thinks it is the here and now that matter and that no one should bother with what the future will bring. He is a craftsman and he likes making things and spends most of his time thinking what he should forge next. He is loyal, but he claims he gives his loyalty only to those who are truly worth it.

HISTORY: Bain was born in a family of craftsmen and he had always been very fond of this trade. A year or two after the Battle of Five Armies, his entire family moved from the Iron Hills to Erebor, and that is the place that he considers home. However, when Balin had asked him to come to Moria as his skills would be needed there and he would have the chance to make much more wonderful things, he felt pleased and did not refuse. He did not once think that things in Moria could ever go wrong and he followed Balin to Erebor without a worry.

Well, this is my character. Let me know if you want me to add/remove/change anything. Thanks again for inviting me-I can't wait for the game to start:D
___________________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Kath]

Alright Lommy, I haven't stopped thinking about this since you mentioned it so here I am! I'm still thinking on characters but just wanted to say that I would love to play. I will probably have two characters, Dwarf and wife, if that's alright. Will try to get bio's up within the next couple of days.

[Thinlómien]

Alright Lommy, I haven't stopped thinking about this since you mentioned it so here I am! I'm still thinking on characters but just wanted to say that I would love to play. I will probably have two characters, Dwarf and wife, if that's alright. Will try to get bio's up within the next couple of days.Oh, that's lovely, Kath. :D

And Dimturiel too - so great to have you both here, and Dimtury's* bio looks very good. :)

*Do you have a proper nickname? :D

Oh, and lastly, I think our female quota is about full after Kath's characters...

[Kath]

Do you have a proper nickname?
You mean we can't just call her Dim? :p

[Thinlómien]

You mean we can't just call her Dim? :pWell, I figured it could be a little offensive unless she herself says it's a valid nickname for her... :D;)

[Gwathagor]

Wow. This is a lot of dwarves.

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

"The more, the merrier," said the Orc and sharpened his scimitar.

[Folwren]

I've got a question and I'm not sure where to find the answer in the books. How old do dwarve's get? If they're considered on the young side until they're 100, when are they considered old?

-- Foley

[piosenniel]

There are links for various sources of Tolkien Dwarves' information in Post # 5 (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572069&postcount=5) of this thread.

I believe there is a short entry about Dwarven Mortality in the Encyclopedia of Arda link in the afore mentioned post.

~*~ Pio

[Folwren]

Okay. I looked at a couple of the links (the ones I thought would have the info I needed) and didn't find it. I'll look again and then ask if I still don't find my answer. :) Thanks, Pio.

EDIT: I found it... Thanks again and sorry for bothering you all and cluttering the thread.

[Gwathagor]

I've got a question and I'm not sure where to find the answer in the books. How old do dwarve's get? If they're considered on the young side until they're 100, when are they considered old?

-- Foley

I have been under the impression for some time that 250 is an average dwarf lifespan. I imagine, then, that they would begin to be considered old when they reach 180 or 190? The stages of length (youth, middle-age, etc.) get drawn out, of course, since the life as a whole is much longer than a human's.

[piosenniel]

How Dwarves Age

So, I dug a little further into the question about Dwarves ages and found this reference in a book by two well respected Tolkien scholars:

The Lord of the Rings, A Reader’s Companion by W. Hammond and C. Scull; pages 709 – 710 (About “Appendix A” of LotR) – Under the entry: Dwalin 2772 – 3112:

By Hammond/Scull

Tom Delaney observes in a letter to Beyond Bree, July 1986, p.9, that Dwalin ‘lived to be a 340, a full 78 years longer than every other known dwarf’. In The Peoples of Middle-earth Christopher Tolkien quotes from his father’s ‘Notes on Chronology of Durin’s Line’, made while he was evolving the Dwarf family tree:

“Dwarves of different ‘breeds’ vary in their longevity. Durin’s race were originally long-lived (especially those named Durin), but like most other peoples they had become less so during the Third Age. Their average age (unless they met a violent death) was about 250 years, which they seldom fell far short of, but could occasionally far exceed (up to 300). [Christopher Tolkien comments: It will be found in the genealogical table that the life-span of all the ‘kings of Durin’s folk’ from Thrain I to Nain II varied only between 247 and 256 years, and no Dwarf in the table exceeded that, save Borin (261) and Dwalin, who lived to the vast age of 340 (the date of his death appears in all the later texts of the table, although the first to give dates seems – it is hard to make out the figures – to make him 251 years old at his death.] A dwarf of 300 was about as rare and aged as a Man of 100.

Dwarves remained young – e.g. regarded as too tender for really hard work or for fighting – until they were 30 or nearly that (Dain II was very young in 2799 (32) and his slaying of Azog was a great feat). After that they hardened and took on the appearance of age (by human standards) very quickly. By 40 all Dwarves looked much alike in age, until they reached what they regarded as old age, about 240. They then began to age and wrinkle and go quite white quickly (baldness being unknown among them), unless they were going to be long-lived, in which case the process was delayed. Almost the only physical disorder they suffered from (they were singularly immune from diseases such as affected Men, and Halflings) was corpulence. If in prosperous circumstances, many grew vary fat at or before 200, and could not do much (save eat) afterwards. Otherwise ‘old age’ lasted not much more than ten years, and from say 40 or a little before to near 240 (two hundred years) the capacity for toil (and for fighting) of most Dwarves was equally great. [pp. 284-5; p. 288, n. 17]
____________________

So for the average Dwarves who live to be 250:

Until the age of 30, they are considered too young for hard work or fighting.

From 40 to 240, they are fully mature in looks and physique, remain very hardy and capable of hard work and are battle-ready.

From 240 to 250 (the last ten years of their normal lifespan), they begin to "age" - they become wrinkled, and their hair (which they do not ever lose) turns white.

~*~ Pio

[Gwathagor]

Oh, that makes sense. Thanks pio.

[Boromir88]

First, thank you kindly for the invite, and I am signing up. :D

Second, quick question, would it be alright if my character was a messenger from Erebor? I know there was contact between the two places, and it stopped, but I'm not sure if there was an exact date given of when contact between Erebor and Moria stopped...just wondering.

[piosenniel]

Just an FYI (for future reference), though I know it’s been agreed that the woman Dwarves in this RPG are without beards:

The Lord of the Rings, A Reader’s Companion by W. Hammond and C. Scull; pages 710 – 711 (About “Appendix A” of LotR) – Under the entry: ...there are few dwarf-women . . . other peoples cannot tell them apart:

By Hammond/Scull

In The Peoples of Middle-earth Christopher Tolkien comments that what is said about dwarf-women in his father’s ‘Notes on Chronology of Durin’s Line’ is similar to that published in Appendix A ‘except for the statements that they are never forced to wed against their will (which “would of course be impossible”), and that they have beards’ (p. 285). Tolkien expanded on the importance of beards to dwarves in a revision to the Quenta Silmarillion in 1951:

The Naugrim [Dwarves] were ever, as they still remain, short and squat in stature; they were deep-breasted, strong in the arm, and stout in the leg, and their beards were long. Indeed this strangeness they have that no Man nor Elf has ever seen a beardless Dwarf – unless he were shaven in mockery, and then be more like to die of shame than of many other hurts that to us would be more deadly. For the Naugrim have beards from the beginning of their lives, male and female alike; nor indeed can their womenkind be discerned by those of other race, be it in feature, or in gait or in voice, nor in anywise save this: that they go not to war, and seldom save at the direst need issue from their deep bowers and halls. [The War of the Jewels, p. 205]
___________________

(Bolding in the above quote by me....)

So, it looks as if Dwarves are born bearded, both male and female.....

~*~ Pio

[Lilly]

Do you want my female character and her 2 children to be bearded?

I don't really mind, since it is what Tolkien wrote for his Dwarves.

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Second, quick question, would it be alright if my character was a messenger from Erebor? I know there was contact between the two places, and it stopped, but I'm not sure if there was an exact date given of when contact between Erebor and Moria stopped...just wondering.

Ho-ho, welcome, Boro! I really see the people are coming... great!

As far as I know, and I dare to say that, there is no exact datum on when the contact ceased. I find it quite possible that there was some messenger right then when "the incident" happened.

As for the beards, this only supports what I wondered about all the time - but I thought this is just some special rule for this time, that the Dwarven women have no beards.

[Groin Redbeard]

Welcome Gwathagor, Dim, Kath and Boromir88, we are so glad that ya'll could join!:D This is shaping out to be a merry band of players, ten already.


Second, quick question, would it be alright if my character was a messenger from Erebor? I know there was contact between the two places, and it stopped, but I'm not sure if there was an exact date given of when contact between Erebor and Moria stopped...just wondering.
This is a splendid idea. Over twenty years had elapsed before Gandalf and the Fellowship traveled through Khazad-dum, so we could take the point of view that somewhere within those twenty years the attempts at communication had ceased. You may feel free to have your character Boromir88.

The wheels are turning in my head, this could give the defenders the false hope that Dain might come to their rescue. Oh this is thrilling!:D

Lilly, Lommy and I have made our first sin against Tolkien and went along and purposely ignored that very explicit detail simply because it would be rather uncomfortable to have women with beards. :p

OK, here's the set up for how the game will begin. It is recorded that Balin was killed standing next to Mirrormere by an Orc archer. The game will start at Balin's death, a small group of his most trusty subjects will be standing a short distance away and will witness his death and the coming of an army of Orcs up the Silverlode.

Everyone elses charcters will be within Khazad-dum itself when the news of an attack has been spread. This will mean that Ori, Oin and Tror will definately be with Balin when he dies. I'm not sure if Frar will be with him, seeing that he's merely a great warrior (ya, only a great warrior), and if Boromir88's character has arrived a couple days before that day he might also be with the group. Although it would be thrilling to have Boro's character just escaping the clutches of the Orcs.

[piosenniel]

Pass on by.....

[Kitanna]

Since there's still room to play I'd would like to take up one of the roles that's left open, a Dwarf child if possible. I can get up a character bio later today or early tomorrow.

[Dimturiel]

Just one question: when will the game actually begin? (I'm being a little restless and excited about all this, you see;)). Oh, and Kath, Lommy, Dim is fine, Dimtury is also fine, whatever you decide to call me is fine with me:D.

[Groin Redbeard]

Since there's still room to play I'd would like to take up one of the roles that's left open, a Dwarf child if possible. I can get up a character bio later today or early tomorrow.

Yehaw, welcome to the game Kittana! Sorry I forgot about you Folwren, glad you could make it!:D Wow, already we have the minimum number of players, this is turning out better than I thought!:D

If you want to take up a male character for a short time, Kitanna, Loni and Nali are open for the taking. Just note that they die off rather quickly in the game (In the Twenty-First Hall to be precise).

As to your question, Dim (I'm so glad we abreviated your name;)), I don't know when we are going to start. Pio has a post up in the game thread saying that she'll move it when all the players have posted in the Discussion Thread, so I'm assuming we'll get things started when everyone get their character bios in. Whenever it begins I hope it will be soon.

[Kitanna]

If you want to take up a male character for a short time, Kitanna, Loni and Nali are open for the taking. Just note that they die off rather quickly in the game (In the Twenty-First Hall to be precise).

If Loni or Nali are just secondary characters I can take up one of them until they are killed.

[piosenniel]

Once all the Character Bios are on board, I'll open the RPG Thread for play when the game owners give me the 'okay' - that they are ready.

~*~ Pio

[Groin Redbeard]

If Loni or Nali are just secondary characters I can take up one of them until they are killed.
Whatever you want to do with them.;)

Once all the Character Bios are on board, I'll open the RPG Thread for play when the game owners give me the 'okay' - that they are ready.Fantastic!:D Lommy, still has to get in her secondary character that she wants. Legate, are you going to pick up a secondary character or are you going to stick with just Oin?

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

This is a splendid idea. Over twenty years had elapsed before Gandalf and the Fellowship traveled through Khazad-dum, so we could take the point of view that somewhere within those twenty years the attempts at communication had ceased.
Well, the communication obviously ceased around the time when the Dwarves were wiped out ;) Or attacked, for that matter. Obviously, because nobody knew about Balin's demise. The last words from the colony were that big labours began and such. Positive news. Boro's character - or so I understood it - would be just a messenger who happened to be around in the bad time, and ended up stuck here with the rest of us.

Fantastic!:D Lommy, still has to get in her secondary character that she wants. Legate, are you going to pick up a secondary character or are you going to stick with just Oin?

Well, if there is a possibility - I thought with the list being full, that's it. I would have taken a secondary character, but the other things is, we don't want a horde there (although there was a horde, of course). I pity a little Lóni and Náli - or maybe just one if Kitanna's going to take one of them - for when they are named, I'd have expected them to show up (although when I was thinking about taking a second, I would have had preferred another one, too - just because Oin himself dies earlier than most, too, so having only early-dying characters won't be that much of help).

[Ilya]

Very late to the game, alas. Is one of the secondary characters still up for grabs? I'd take Loni or Nali, since all the other spots are now filled.

[Kitanna]

If Ilya wants to take Loni and Nali I'll happily relinquish the role.

[Durelin]

Lommy and I have made our first sin against Tolkien and went along and purposely ignored that very explicit detail simply because it would be rather uncomfortable to have women with beards.

Bah, get over it. ;)

I definitely would not mind to explicity give my female dwarf a beard. I only skirted the issue cause I wasn't actually sure if that was actually canon or not.

Yay, Boro! It will be great to RP with you again! And I really hope you can play, Ilya! I'd love to RP with you again

I'd also like to second Gwathagor's statement...this is lot of dwarves! I hope I can keep up with everyone...

[piosenniel]

Groin and Lommy

Please check your PM's.

~*~ Pio :)

[Kitanna]

Name: Iari
Age: 10
Race: Dwarf
Gender: Female
Weapons: A slingshot, but she constantly misplaces her pebbles thus making the slingshot useless.
Appearance: She's about two feet tall, very stocky build. She wears long dark brown hair in one thick braid.
Personality/Strengths/Weaknesses: She's shy and can be a bit flighty at times, but she clings to her older brother. However, she's terrified of her grandfather because of his temper and often seeks to hide from him.
History: Iari is the younger sister of Kéni. They hailed from Erebor and are the children of Kéndrin and Ai who migrated from the Blue Mountains after the Battle of Five Armies. Ai died shortly after Iari's birth so the girl has no real memory of her. For two years Kéndrin, son of Kénan, raised his children alone delighting in their presence yet silently grieving for his dead wife. Kéndrin died under mysterious circumstances leaving his daughter to only have faint memories of her father. After Kéndrin's death her grandfather Kénan took Iari and Kéni in, eventually moving them with him to Khazad-Dum. Iari has never been particularly close with her grandfather. Because of her shyness she's always found Kénan's temper terrifying, though Kénan rarely directs his anger toward the young girl she still feels that somehow his anger is meant for her.

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

(Secondary character with Folwren)
Name: Kéni
Age: 20
Race: Dwarf
Gender: Male
Weapons: Kéni inherited his father's ax after Kéndrin's death, though his grandfather does not feel he is old enough to use it. He also retains a slingshot and bag of pebbles, as well as keeping his sister's bag in his keeping.
Appearance: He has the same thick brown hair as Iari. He keeps it long enough to keep it in a short braid. He is continually growing and has the stocky build of his family.
Personality/Strengths/Weaknesses: He is a protective older brother, but can be overbearing to Iari and often acts much older than his age.
History: He has better memories of his parents than Iari, but his memories of Ai are not as clear as his memories of Kéndrin. In the first few years after Kéndrin's Kéni was a bit unruly and was quite the troublemaker. His behavior caused Kénan to lose his temper on several occasions. Kéni grew accustomed to Kénan and his temper, under his grandfather's wing the young dwarf began to learn discipline. Kéni is much closer to his grandfather than Iari and is often acting as a go between for his shy sister and grumpy grandfather. He often imagined Kénan's temper toward him in their first years together had a profound effect on Iari and that was why she feared their grandfather.

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

Folwren and I have been working out a plan for our characters. We were thinking of having Kéni die at some point before the untimely end of the rest. We haven't figured out how yet, so we're waiting to see how the story progresses.
___________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Folwren]

Alrighty. Here I am with my character bio. As Kitanna has stated, she and I have been doing some plotting behind the scenes. We are sharing a minor character, 20 year old Kéni and already have plans for him. (erm...) Anyway, here is my ol' chap. Hope you all like him.

Folwren’s Character

NAME: Kénan son of Kénor

AGE: 210

RACE: Dwarf

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: A large, double bladed battle axe. He can use a bow and arrows if necessary, but the axe is his favorite weapon.

APPEARANCE: Kénan is an average sized dwarf, slightly stooped now with age, but scarcely the less strong because of it. His shoulders are broad and still muscular. His beard is a light gray, almost white, and his eyebrows are long and bristly. His brows are bent far down over his eyes which are often not seen except in moments of keen excitement, during which they flash fiercely, then their gleam is only caught at brief moments, for his brows are often drawn down further in such moments of excitement or anger. He wears a chain-mail shirt over a leather tunic in battle with a broad belt to carry his axe when not in use.

PERSONALITY: Kénan is a very opinionated old fellow with a swift and furious temper. He has a keen sense of duty and loyalty to his family and his people. He’s a staunch character and would never break his word nor betray anyone. He’ll fight do the death for anything he thinks worth it and for anyone who he is loyal to. If anyone disagrees with him, it is just about impossible to convince him of something other than what he already believes.

HISTORY: Kénan was born in during the exile of the dwarves, between the time that Dale was destroyed and they migrated to Ered Luin. His earliest memories were those of his father going off to fight in the Battle of Nanduhirion, when he was around 13 years old. His father survived the battle and moved him and his mother to the Blue Mountains with the rest of their kin. There, the family lived in relative quiet. Kénan married and he and his wife had one son, Kéndrin. When Thorin Oakenshield left and defeated the dragon Smaug at the Lonely Mountain and Dale was freed again, Kénan with his wife, and his son and his wife, along with many other Dwarven folk, migrated from the Blue Mountains to Erebor.

Eight years previous to the time of this story, Kéndrin died, leaving his two children orphans. Out of his deep sense of duty to his family, Kénan took the children. Three years later, when he decided to go with Balin to Moria, friends tried to persuade him to leave the children in Erebor, but he would not be dissuaded from his sense of duty, and so took them along. He was helped by some motherly dwarves on the journey in the care of the children, especially the young Iari.

Since then, they have lived in relative peace in Moria.
_______________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[piosenniel]

Nicely done old guy, Folwren!

[Boromir88]

Although it would be thrilling to have Boro's character just escaping the clutches of the Orcs.~Groin
I could do that. ;)

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

Name: Gror

Age: 95

Race: Dwarf

Gender: Male

Weapons: skilled with a long bow, carries a two-handed poleax from his father

Appearance: Gror is slightly below average height, but stout and broad-shouldered. His dark-brown hair (as well as his beard) hang down below his waist. Prefers wearing a leather cap rather than a steel helmet.

Personality: Like most dwarves Gror does not easily forget past grievances. He distrusts Elves, but most of all hates Orcs. He is not the fastest dwarf, but is still quick (according to dwarvish standards), and a high endurance that has not been matched by any dwarf in Erebor. However, some of Gror's ideas are unpopular amongst other dwarves. For example, Gror has taken a particular liking to Men (especially their women), and loves to talk amongst Men every chance he gets. In fact, to other dwarves, it appears that Gror would rather be akin to Men, than his own kind.

History: Gror was born in 2899 of the Third Age. He has no siblings and his father Bror served in King Dain's personal guard, up until his death two years ago; because of that, Gror's family was wealthy and well respected. After receiving word Bror had died, King Dain offered Gror the chance of serving as a messenger of the King. Gror, gladly accepted the position. Even though some would grumble the reason he got the opportunity was because of his father, no dwarf could argue Gror was not capable of performing his duties well. In fact, a lot of dwarves in Erebor would probably tell you Gror was the best dwarf for the job.

However, Gror's own personal ambitions were to follow in the steps of his father. His ultimate dream would be to serve in King Dain's personal guard, but he knew even though he was quite the marksman, he would have to learn to wield an axe better if he had any chance of that dream. So, he took out his father's axe and would practice with it everyday.

Until one day, King Dain approached Gror with some new orders: Go to Moria and speak with the Lord Balin. Then return to Erebor and report back to him on the colonization of Moria. It seemed to Gror like a pretty straight forward task, but he saw it as his first real chance at proving himself to the King. Before this opportunity, Gror had mostly been sent, as an emissary, to Dale. But now he would be making a journey all the way to Moria, and would be speaking with the Lord Balin himself.
_________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Thinlómien]

Goodness I'm losing track of players and characters but I'm so glad we have so many so great players! Welcome everybody.

Lilly, Lommy and I have made our first sin against Tolkien and went along and purposely ignored that very explicit detail simply because it would be rather uncomfortable to have women with beards.Well, to elaborate, I asked Groin about the issue and he said we can take everything that is said in the histories of M-E of Dwarves with a pinch of salt since history is always written by Elves or Men. I considered that as a valid point. But if a majority of the players prefers women with beards, we can change it. My main objection to Dwarf males and females looking alike is not that I would have anything against bearded women (such exist in the real world too, anyway) but rather that I cannot quite take for granted a description that says that the males and the females of a certain race are appearance-wise identical. (Although... hmm... that's kind of very equal, isn't it? But bah, if women differ from men by having less freedom and power in the Dwarven society, let them differ by appearance too. I cannot say it's very fair that their life is more restricted and that they are as ugly. ;)) Okay, I'll stop rambling now. :D Whatever we decide is fine with me.

Just one question: when will the game actually begin?As soon as we're ready... ;)

If Loni or Nali are just secondary characters I can take up one of them until they are killed.Yes. Just one thing concerning them. I might be mistaken but I think they would be in some way important that they should be named that way in the book. So not maybe by rank, but they could be related to King Dáin, or something.

Lommy, still has to get in her secondary character that she wants.Yes, I'm debating about that. I have a tempting idea for a Dwarf woman, but on the other hand, I would love to have one really old Dwarf around... Maybe I will just pick one of these ideas for my character and use the other for an NPC because I think there will be those as well... I will have to think a little more. But I promise to be ready as soon as everybody else is - I can write a bio for either of those characters in half an hour.

[Folwren]

Yes, I'm debating about that. I have a tempting idea for a Dwarf woman, but on the other hand, I would love to have one really old Dwarf around... Maybe I will just pick one of these ideas for my character and use the other for an NPC because I think there will be those as well... I will have to think a little more. But I promise to be ready as soon as everybody else is - I can write a bio for either of those characters in half an hour.

I've created a pretty old dwarf, Lommy, so if you wanted to, you could have your Dwarf woman.

[piosenniel]

Pass on by.....

[Groin Redbeard]

Well, we can forget about having a nice small RPG here. I thought that we could have small RPG but noooo everyone had to get in on the fun!:D:p This is really fantastic, I never dreamed that Dwarves were such an attraction to RPGers.:D

Thanks for keeping that list up to dat Pio, and great job on your new characters Folwren and Kitanna. Nice job with sharing your characters I love it when people do that!

I could do that. Would you? That would be splendid if you did, but once again it's your character and I don't want to make it sound as if I'm pressuring you.

Bang on job with your character, yours is probably the most original out of all of them.

Yes. Just one thing concerning them. I might be mistaken but I think they would be in some way important that they should be named that way in the book. So not maybe by rank, but they could be related to King Dáin, or something.Very good point Lommy. I was also thinking that due to the similarity in names that they might be related. Like Fili and Kili, Loni and Nali aren't that much different when it come to pronouncing them

[Himaran]

Hello everyone!

This looks like a fantastic game in the making; I look forward to playing with all of you. A special thanks to the benevolent owners for letting me in at late notice!

I will have that bio up as soon as possible.

- Himaran

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Yes. Just one thing concerning them. I might be mistaken but I think they would be in some way important that they should be named that way in the book. So not maybe by rank, but they could be related to King Dáin, or something.

My goodness, Lommy, I hope you mean distant relatives. I won't go for any more uncanonicity! :eek:

[Groin Redbeard]

I was looking at everyones characters in hopes of getting better acquainted with their looks and personalities before the game actually begins. I enjoyed looking through them all again and I am glad that we have such enthused players.:D Something struck me in Boromir88’s description of Gror. Since his father was in such a high position as to be part of King Dain’s royal guard it would be probable to have Gror mixed up in the higher society of Erebor. Anyway, the point that I’m getting to here is that it would not be at all unlikely for Gror to have met some of the characters that now dwell in Khazad-dum, especially the military figures such as Ori, Oin, Tror and Frar.

Also, if we could get those character biographies in as soon as possible that would be grand.:) I’m rather anxious to get started. ;)

[Thinlómien]

My goodness, Lommy, I hope you mean distant relatives. I won't go for any more uncanonicity!Oh I'm so delighted to have a canonicity watcher of our own with us here... ;) But yes, obviously I meant that. You may be at peace. ;)

I've created a pretty old dwarf, Lommy, so if you wanted to, you could have your Dwarf woman.Yes, pretty old, but I mean really old. :) Like 240-250. Oh well, I'm still thinking about it...

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Oh I'm so delighted to have a canonicity watcher of our own with us here... But yes, obviously I meant that. You may be at peace.
Obviously, I will hold that post with responsibility ;) And good to hear that. ;)

Yes, pretty old, but I mean really old. Like 240-250. Oh well, I'm still thinking about it...

Oh, great. That would be actually somebody older than Ori, at last. :)

[Himaran]

Name: Dalin

Age: 100 (Estimated.)

Race: Dwarf

Gender: Male

Weapons: Dalin carries a large single-headed ax, complemented by a walking stick which is very dear to him.

Appearance: Dalin is a middle-aged dwarf of average height and small build. His hair is of a light brown hue, and his beard is short for his kind. Not considered particularly attractive amongst other dwarves, he has puffy cheeks, a furrowed brow, and a deep, booming laugh.

Personality: Dalin is friendly, boisterous, and proud. He believes that he can take on any task, no matter how great, and is rarely proven wrong because he has actually done very little in his life. Never having fought in a battle, he nonetheless considers himself a skilled warrior. He often boasts (or outright lies) about various exploits to compensate for his insecurity regarding his lack of combat prowess. He is very loyal to his friends, but has never had to put himself in harms way to protect them. He may be a coward at heart, or may possess a deep inner strength; only time will tell. Dalin is, however, a relatively skilled craftsmen of arms and armor, prefering to spend his days in the forge rather than hunting or exploring.

History: Dalin was born on an uncertain day to parents unknown. To the best of his knowledge, they either died or disappeared when he was too young to remember. He grew up as an orphan in the Iron Hills, and was cared for by a number of different families. Unfortunately, he never grew close to any of them; the forge was always his home. He did make many friends while growing up in the Hills, and eventually migrated to Erebor. Failing to marry (though not for lack of trying), Dalin has yet to father any children. As his friends slowly drifted away from Erebor to travel and seek better fortune, he decided to follow Balin to retake Moria. He has worked mostly repairing the arms and armor of Balin's force, and has thus far yet to kill a foe in battle. With rumors growing of orcs in the region, Dalin is beginning to worry that his decision to travel to Moria was a faulty one.

____________

Can't wait to start playing; let me know if any edits are required/advised.

____________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Groin Redbeard]

Great job Himaran, a good looking character!:)

This means that Kath, Ilya and (yes, you) Lommy need to get their biographies in.:) Loni and Noli are still up for grabs, if anyone wants them now is the time.

[Ilya]

Name: Adela
Age: 52
Race: Dwarf
Gender: Female

Weapons: Kitchen knives and a wit just as sharp.

Appearance: Adela is of middling height and lean build with a hungry face and thick black hair. While her cloth is poor and her dress is plain, the fierce spark in her brown eyes ensures she never goes unnoticed.

Personality: Proud, willful, and distrustful, Adela doesn't give the best first impression. Her tongue is biting, mocking the very things most dwarves find most admirable -gold, spirits, the virtues of the mine. Her penchant for "borrowing" things gets her into trouble, though not as often as it used to. She's slow to trust, and nurses a grudge with an heated iron unquenchable by air or water. But her pride in equal measure drives her to continually better her craft and her mind. No one judges Adela more harshly than she does. Once she trusts, she trusts with her whole soul, giving of her kindness and loyalty to the utmost measure. She's especially gentle with children, although she does a good job of trying not to show it.

History: Though she wasn't alive at the time, Adela was in a way a casualty of the Battle of Five Armies. Her father, a lieutenant in the service of Dain, was felled by a warg and her mother died in childbirth on the same day. Shifted around from one set of relations to the next, she earned repute for being a hellion and a pickpocket. Her escapades punted her from the Iron Hills to Erebor to even Esgaroth for a little while. When an elderly uncle with a sardonic sensibility to match her own offered her a place, though, she stayed. Adela found a home in his kitchen, where one could slice and press and roast things with delicious consequences, where taking an extra apple from the larder never ended in a beating. She learned fast, becoming quite the cook for only an apprentice, although she was often jokingly told that she was far too skinny for her profession. After her uncle's death there wasn't much to hold her in Erebor, and even though she stayed on to serve the cousins who moved in, it was a great relief to both her and their nerves when the expedition to Moria was announced.

Although she still has something of a reputation for willfulness and a checkered youth, Adela has thrived in Dwarrowdelf these last six years, finally able to breathe in a new place away from her kin and with home for herself. So dear has it become to her that she stubbornly refuses to see the danger she might be in if she remains.

_____________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Folwren]

I can't wait! This game is going to be so much fun!

-- Foley

[Groin Redbeard]

I can't wait! This game is going to be so much fun!If Lommy can get her new character typed up and put it up by tonight (I'll PM Kath:)) then we can get the game underway it seems like forever to get started.;)

Lommy, and all you other players who want to have a say in it, who do you think should be with Balin when he dies? Should it just be military leaders, or should we include some of the craftsmen as well? If it is just going to be military leaders then I'd say that Tror, Oin, Ori and Frar would be the only ones with him. What do you think?

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Okay, after pondering whether to take one or not, as I did also on this thread, I have decided that it will be good for me to take a secondary character after all. I have been talking about this to Lommy at least, and she approved. It will be really just a secondary character, but he will be around, and I am planning for him to survive longer than Óin, so I can have somebody to play even after Óin dies :)

NAME: Onli

AGE: 126

RACE: Dwarf of Durin's Folk

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: Onli carries a short iron spear with him, but very often, he walks around unarmed. The spear is just a simple weapon he packed with himself on the journey. After the invasion becomes apparent, he picks a heavy two-handed mattock.

APPEARANCE: Onli is sturdy, rather fat, with a tanned skin. His hair and beard are both short and red, his eyes in deep sockets are dark brown. He often wears a green hooded cloak, big brown boots and a brown belt with a large golden buckle. He has a pretty big pouch filled with gems behind his belt, and another one in the back, usually hidden from the sight of others. In an inside pocket of his cloak, he keeps his greatest treasure – a shard of mitril. He does not prefer to wear armor, but if need be, he can be persuaded to take on some.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Onli is very good in counting, especially when it means counting profit (even in metaphorical terms), has some good diplomacy skills and is very good in appraising valuable things, jewels, gems etc. just by sight. His dominant character traits are greed and cowardice, mixed together in the well-balanced way for Onli to survive and at the same moment to gain the most profit from his situation. His behavior, which is more calculative than friendly, has made him many contacts, but very few friends (and some people who dislike him a bit... or a lot).

HISTORY: Onli comes from a family of simple miners. He had a brother and a sister, but as soon as he could, he went on his own and practically cut all the ties with the family. He started in the Blue Mountains as a helper of one of the local „trade managers“, a Dwarven caravan master Vill. He got his hands close to the preparations of the Quest for Erebor (being one of the very few who knew about it from very early) and several years earlier, even to the mysterious quest of Dúvi of the Firebeards, which was a big subject of gossip back then. After the reoccupation of Erebor, Onli quickly sniffed the opportunity to make a quick profit and moved to King Dáin's realm. Unfortunately for him, Dáin had already his own closest counsellors for the things concerning trade, mining and finances in general. Had Thorin been the King, Onli would have surely managed to gain an important position next to him. Still, he managed to profit well on the activities connected with rebuilding the Kingdom and Dale. However, he was not content. And thus, when the gossip about return to Moria started to go around, he was most excited and tried to subtly manipulate people around him, pulling the strings of the many contacts he had, working both ways for making it possible to go and at the same time trying to work upon discouraging the higher places from any kind of „official“ recolonisation. This way, he wanted to ensure that neither of King Dáin's most important „financial advisors“ is among the first ones to go, and when it seemed clear that Balin will be the one to lead the colonists, Onli was fast to offer his services to oversee the administration of the mining (if there will be any) and listing all the loot and hoard that is going to be found (if there will be any). Listing, counting profit, appreciating found treasures, that's what he did, and he was among those to encourage the most the search for mitril. When some has finally been found, Onli was there and it pleased him to take the a shard, a share of the first profit for himself.

PET - Vriti, ferret: Onli has a pet: his sparking orange-furred (with three black strips on the back) Eastern mountain ferret Vriti, who is over six years old and traveled with him here from as far as Erebor, where he bought it once from an animal tamer from Dale. Vriti has shiny green eyes, sneaky and sometimes aggressive nature and has big dislike for strangers, and for several Dwarves whose smell she probably dislikes. Often, when being with Onli, she sleeps curled on his shoulder or around his neck. Vriti is most probably the only creature Onli cares about (though if Vriti cares about Onli more than because he gives him food is unknown), and surely the only companion he often has.
________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Thinlómien]

Okay, sorry, I've been occupied with... other stuff today so I haven't got almost anything done for this RPG... :o:) I will post the bio of my secondary character, reply some things and send Groin the PM I promised to send him ages ago tomorrow, now it's just too late...

[Kath]

*waves*

Got the nudge. :p Been a bit busy sorry, will try to get those bio's up tomorrow. :)

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Bah, come on, at least writing a character description (well, of course presuming you have some general idea about the character already) is nothing that hard. ;) For example, I did manage to write the description of my secondary character almost all by today. :p I just wonder what you people do... :Merisu:

[Durelin]

I will never ask anyone to hurry up! (I wonder why...) :D As far as I'm concerned, take your time writing your characters and finalizing things for the game...

I think more than just the warrior-types could be with Balin at the Mirromere, couldn't they? Obviously they are still wary of dangers, but there has been peace for a while, and Balin's purpose is simply to see it...couldn't others tag along because they want to see it, too?

On the other hand, I can see Balin and the leader-types, or the warrior-types, not allowing it all the same. I especially can see them not allowing the women... ;)

And I suppose there is the simple limit that you can't have a whole bunch of dwarves following Balin around outside... So perhaps limiting it to a specific type - the 'military leaders' as you called them - is the best way to go, Groin, to keep it simple.

Anyway, just my bit. I'm fine with either way. I do think not all will go/be allowed to go with Balin, of course, and I'm sure those who aren't along will find plenty to do before all hell breaks loose.

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

I would agree with most of what Groin and Durelin said on the subject of following Balin, these "military leaders", and probably Balin's closest friends. Obviously, it will be also easier to get the events out there rolling just with the smaller number of Dwarves, there may be also need to send somebody to call upon reinforcements when it shows up that there is more Orcs than what is good for them etc., etc.... whatever the Mods also may have planned, for that matter.

And as for hurrying up, I am of course not pushing anybody to hurry hurry finish their character ;) (I am actually surprised that the bios have been done so fast). Better to take your time and make your character the way you know you are really going to like him and know you would like to unfold his personality in this direction you set...

[Gwathagor]

I'm all for just a few dwarves going with Balin to the Mirrormere. Why does he choose that day to visit the pool?

[Durelin]

And as for hurrying up, I am of course not pushing anybody to hurry hurry finish their character

I know you were just teasing. :D

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

I'm all for just a few dwarves going with Balin to the Mirrormere. Why does he choose that day to visit the pool?

I have no idea, but is it not possible - as it's the tenth of November, which is close to the end of autumn - that it was the Durin's day for that year? That would make a lot of sense. I cannot look it up now, but in The Hobbit chapter 3 when Elrond reads the runes, Thorin explains what exactly Durin's day is and that it is something like the last day before winter when the moon shows in the sky during the day or something like that. If we could determine if it was possible that year to be the 10th Nov... but I find it probable.

[Gwathagor]

Yes, I was thinking it might be Durin's Day or something similar.

[Groin Redbeard]

Yes, I was thinking it might be Durin's Day or something similar.
I have no idea, but is it not possible - as it's the tenth of November, which is close to the end of autumn - that it was the Durin's day for that year? That would make a lot of sense. I cannot look it up now, but in The Hobbit chapter 3 when Elrond reads the runes, Thorin explains what exactly Durin's day is and that it is something like the last day before winter when the moon shows in the sky during the day or something like that. If we could determine if it was possible that year to be the 10th Nov... but I find it probable.

Ah, you little mind readers you! :eek: I was just fancying the idea, that on the last day that the Dwarves are alive, in the Chamber of Marzabul, they see the moon and sun in the sky through the tunnel of light that focuses on Balin’s tomb. I forgot that we had some scholars in our midst,:D but I don’t think November 10th was Durin’s Day.

Holiday of the Dwarves, Durin's Day, occurred only when the Moon and the Sun were in the sky together on the Dwarves' New Year's Day - which was the first day of the last Moon of autumn. By the end of the Third Age, the Dwarves no longer had the ability to calculate when such a phenomenon would occur. According to my calculations, the Autumn in the northern hemisphere is assumed to start on the autumnal equinox, generally on September 22nd, the season runs until about December 21st. The first day of the last new moon of Autumn could thus take place any time between about November 22 and December 21.

That’s my two cents on the matter, though don’t take my word for it, I’m not entirely sure that I calculated correctly. However, as to Balin issuing from Moria to look upon Mirrormere I think that this was just an urge that he had. Years ago Durin looked upon Mirrormere and saw a crown of stars appear above his head in the reflection. The Dwarves set a pillar up to commemorate the spot on which these events occurred and it was here that Balin died (I hope I’m not preaching to the choir on this).

It is possible that Balin was going to give a speech of importance to his leaders and wanted a moment to meditate alone at the site on which their (meaning Durin’s Folk) greatest leader had had his inspiration to found the colony of Khazad-dum.

Anyway, your new character looks great Legate! I trust that this will be the Dwarf who will survive until the very end? Thanks for getting yours up too, Ilya, it looks grand! Kath, the pressure’s on!:D

P.S. Whoever want's to take up Loni or Nali as a secondary character better make up their mind quick. It looks like we are winding down here with the preparations.

[Gwathagor]

It is possible that Balin was going to give a speech of importance to his leaders and wanted a moment to meditate alone at the site on which their (meaning Durin’s Folk) greatest leader had had his inspiration to found the colony of Khazad-dum.

Possible. He had been there for several years, though, so why then on that particular day? The dwarves were a fairly ritualistic race, and it seems at any rate possible that there was some specific reason for his visit to Mirrormere.

[Thinlómien]

Alright, here comes my secondary character (whom I can hopefully kill off before the end ;))...

NAME: Vigdis

AGE: 147

RACE: Dwarf

GENDER: female

WEAPONS: A beautiful, heavy sword with runes of protection as a decoration.

APPEARANCE: Vigdis' hair is black and she keeps it on a single braid that reaches below her waist. She has a broad, plain face the only striking feature of which are the dark grey deep-set eyes that betray little of what goes on behind them. She's of an average height for a Dwarf woman and a little sturdier.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Vigdis is a skilled mason dedicated to her work. She's hard-working and ambitious, which has enabled her to achieve a lot in her profession. She also makes sculptures of stone, but doesn't regard them as anything else but the crude work of an amateur.

Vigdis is reserved and honest and she has an exceptionally good memory. It has aided her in many ways in the course of her life, but it has little by little turned her grudging and spiteful. This unpleasant trait in her character is only enforced by the typical Dwarven determination and relentlessness that live strongly in her.

HISTORY: Vigdis was born in the Iron Hills on the last day of year 2846. She was the only child of a famous warrior and his wife, and became disappointment to her father just because of her gender. When she grew older, he wanted to train her in the arts of war nevertheless. Her mother considered this very inappropriate, for Dwarf women do not go to war. Therefore, she left her husband and moved to another settlement, taking her young daughter with her.

However, Vigdis became a disappointment for her mother too. She would have liked to see her become a scribe and a rune-master, but Vigdis could not have been less interested in ink and dusty tomes. Instead, she seeked to be apprenticed to a master mason, and to the surprise of her mother, was accepted.

For the next several decades, she studied her craft and developed her working methods. Before long it became evident that she had surpassed her master both in knowledge and skill and a rivalry appeared between them. The mutual trust and respect were turning into jealousy and forced courtesy. When Dáin became the King under the Mountain, Vigdis was ready to join those of his folk who followed him.

Erebor changed Vigdis' life. There was plenty of work for a willing and able craftsman like her and she could finally lead a life without the pressure of her family or her tutor. Also, it was in the Kingdom under the Mountain that she met Balin, son of Fundin, and fell in love with him. It was evident, though, that Lord Balin desired no wife. Proud and stubborn like the womanfolk of her people tend to be, Vigdis decided that if he would not have her, she would take no other husband for no one else would fill her standards. So she nurtured her love in silence and dedicated herself even more to her craft. But when Balin announced that he would go to Khazad-dûm, there was no question about Vigdis following. The colony has given Vigdis more freedom and more work than she could ever have imagined and thanks to the continuous skirmishes with Orcs, she has been able to refresh her skills with the sword as well.
______________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Thinlómien]

Himaran and Ilya - your characters look great. I'm very excited to get to write with you!

Legate great character bio too... but did you really have to pick those names? :eek::D

I think the idea about Durin's Day sounds credible.

these "military leaders", and probably Balin's closest friends. Obviously, it will be also easier to get the events out there rolling just with the smaller number of Dwarves, there may be also need to send somebody to call upon reinforcements when it shows up that there is more Orcs than what is good for them etc., etc.... whatever the Mods also may have planned, for that matter.I agree with this. I think we should assume that Balin would have a small selected group of trusted men with him, and there could be more Dwarves further away guarding their backs.

PS. I'll send you the promise PM later today, Groin. :)

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

First: Yay, your secondary character seems even better than I thought, Lommy. I say, great to have her there. (And as for me, yes, I did have to pick those names ;) What's wrong with them? They are Dwarvish a lot!)

Second:
Holiday of the Dwarves, Durin's Day, occurred only when the Moon and the Sun were in the sky together on the Dwarves' New Year's Day - which was the first day of the last Moon of autumn. By the end of the Third Age, the Dwarves no longer had the ability to calculate when such a phenomenon would occur. According to my calculations, the Autumn in the northern hemisphere is assumed to start on the autumnal equinox, generally on September 22nd, the season runs until about December 21st. The first day of the last new moon of Autumn could thus take place any time between about November 22 and December 21

I cannot count at all and I did not count this by myself, but if that may be of any help to anyone (who could for example deduce something from it ;) ):

On the year Bilbo came to Erebor (2841), Durin's Day was not later than on 30th October (according to Karen Wynn Fonstad's Atlas of Middle-Earth) - and certainly somewhat later than 9th October, when the Dwarves left the Lake-Town.

According to the Encyclopedia of Arda (http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/d/durinsday.html), "The first day of the Dwarves' year was calculated according to the last new moon of autumn (that is, the new moon that occurs within two weeks of 6 October, on a modern calendar)." That would be, according to the same website, 15th October in LotR calendar, which is the number relevant for us.
The page also shows the Durin's Days for the current time, and the dates shown are between 22 Sept - 18 Oct (in LotR counting that would be 13 Sept - 27 Oct).
(Does this seem curious to anyone? Just asking. But at least, the datum of Durin's Day in TH fits - very closely - the timeframe set here.)

So, I have no idea about this and all and I am saying only what I read from these resources: it seems that usually, Durin's Day would occur rather sometime during late October or such. And thus, not by the time we need it. Bah. Horrible, actually. (I shouldn't have started with that anyway.) I haven't even managed to think (by trying to switch the date of 10th November into various calendars ;) ) of any trick how to make the date fit into the timeframe of our tale.

In any case, together with Gwath I would say that I am inclined to think there was some special reason for Balin to go to look into the Mirrormere on that particular day.

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Okay, double-post, which may help us and also perhaps ignore the rant above ;) (I spent about three quarters an hour with searching all this stuff... gah) I decided, just when leaving, to look up also on Wikipedia.

Does not anybody have some kind of HoME with calendars with marked Durin's Day for each year of the Third Age, or something like that? It would make things a lot easier...

Anyway, the Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durin%27s_Day#Durin.27s_Day)- what surprised me was the information I found there, which differed completely from the above :p but went close to Groin's countings:

The first day of the last new moon of Autumn could thus take place any time between about November 22 and December 21.

But then it continues:

However, the seasons in Tolkien's work have the four solar markers at the center of the seasons, not the beginning. For example, Midsummer occurs on the summer solstice, Midwinter on the winter solstice, etc. Autumn would therefore begin midway between the summer solstice and the autumnal equinox in early August and end midway between the autumnal equinox and the winter solstice, usually around November 6.

That sounds a lot better, because in the LotR calendar, Nov 6 would be Nov 16 (not much of a difference for us anyway). Thus, our Nov 10, when Balin dies, would be really "around" the date supported by Wikipedia.

I have no idea, though, as I don't see into these countings at all, which information is more relevant. But we may as well take for relevant the one that fits us more, what do you say ;)

In any case, I would be more inclined to support the idea of Balin going out on Durin's Day.

And now, I am going to be late for class...
Actually, I won't. For simple reason:
*dies*

[Kath]

Right I've written one of the bio's so I'll post that and then get back to you with the other soon.

Here be Svior - my male Dwarf:

Name: Svior

Age: 130

Race: Dwarf

Gender: Male

Weapons: Svior’s preferred weapon is his single edged axe with which he is extremely capable. He will and can fight with anything else to hand but upon entering battle it is always his axe that he will reach for first. He does also carry a dagger and a shield.

Appearance: Average height but a slightly less stocky build than most, which gives the false impression of inferior strength. Has a mane of dark hair and a dark beard, both of which are wound into a tight braid. His eyes are a deep brown and gentle unless seen in the heat of battle. Svior practically lives in his armour but if he is out of it he wears a sturdy dark coloured tunic, always with a belt around to hold his axe.

Personality/strengths/weaknesses: Svori has always been quite extroverted and as such he is well liked and has many acquaintances. Much of his time is spent singing and talking about past battles or simply the occurrences of everyday life. However, despite this there are few that he calls true friend and it is only the most loyal and trustworthy that gain this honour. In deference to keeping the peace between all those he knows he does not make this distinction obvious.

He does not have a hot temper but is easily drawn into disputes because of his innate curiosity. This same curiosity has led him into many different avenues in life. He has tried deep study, musical appreciation, smithwork, mining and other occupations but has found it difficult to settle on any one course because he is always interested in the next thing.

His ease with his fellow Dwarves extends to the women as well among whom he has always been popular as he treats them as he would any male, only with a little more good natured teasing. There is one specific woman, Hepti, whom he has his eye on and has done for some time, and it is for her sake that he is currently forcing himself to concentrate fully on improving his mining skills.

History: Svori spent most of his youth learning many skills to a certain level but none to true Dwarvish standards of perfection. None bar fighting, that is, which he greatly enjoys and thus practised the most. However, in recent years he has found himself smitten by Hepti who is not quite so smitten with him, and who has demanded that he make something of himself before he approaches her. Upon finding out that Hepti would be part of the group setting out to retake Moria Svori bent to the task of becoming a good enough miner to join the company. With such an incentive he soon found himself much improved and entitled to be a part of the mission.
_____________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Kath]

And here is Hepti, my female one:

Name: Hepti

Age: 125

Race: Dwarf

Gender: Female

Weapons: One double-headed axe and two small daggers are always on her person.

Appearance: Hepti is of average height and build, with long dark brown hair usually coiled at the back of her neck to keep it out of the way and deep green eyes. She wears a dark green tunic.

Personality/strengths/weaknesses: Hepti is one to find amusement in everything, but she is also a very hard worker. She has long been a very skilled smith and can do almost anything with metals. The dedication she has to her work does mean that she has few friends as she rarely bothers to try making them, and her humour often does not sit well with other Dwarves.

She also has a habit of regarding males as a lesser species, especially those like Svori who cannot hold to any one profession. It gives her great amusement to demand things of them that she suspects they cannot manage and enjoys the power this gives her.

History: The challenge that rebuilding Moria offers is what made Hepti join the group. Having reached a level of skill at home that she could not improve upon she decided to take on a new venture in the hope of learning something new. She was surprised to find Svori coming along as well, having expected him to give up on her given the hard task she had set him. The fact that he has persevered puts him in her good books.
___________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Groin Redbeard]

Alright, November 10th sounds like a good day. Durin's Day will be on the night of the 10th. :)

Kath, thank you so much for getting those character bios done so quickly, wonderful job!

I'll send you the promise PM later today, Groin.I'm looking forward to it.:D Great job on your new character. Very unorthodox for a dwarf girl, but very well done, it will be interesting the way that your character plays out.

I guess since nobody has taken Loni or Nali, I'm going to take the Nali. If nobody takes Loni by tomorrow, I will take him as well. Hey, since all the character bios are in, except for Nali and Loni, I guess that it's OK to open the game thread!:D Huzzah!

[Groin Redbeard]

NAME: Nali

AGE: 227

RACE: Dwarf of the house of Durin

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS:His tongue is his chief weapon, though when in times of war he has a single handed mace, which, when in the arms of a powerful warrior, can smash the helm or hauberk of any opponent. He also has a richly decorated short sword/long knife which he always carries on his person, but it is more for decoration than fighting.

APPEARANCE: Nali stands a little taller than the average Dwarf and is not as strong as most of his kinsman. His beard is for the most part gold colored, but the signs of age are beginning to show and long streaks of white are beginning to appear on his head. His nose is long and crooked, wrinkles mark his face and emphasize the appearance of his sunken grey eyes. One can tell that he is a figure of importance by the way he bears himself.

Nali adorns himself in rich clothes and jewelry, several rings are always on his hands and gold bracelets are on both his wrists. When traveling abroad, Nali wears a long green robe which falls nearly to the ground and cover his arms up to his hand. When his abode he dresses in a simple tunic for studying and writing.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Nali's mood is for the most part mellow and quiet, but he posses great wisdom, attained from his long life. He follows easily enough and will not lead other people, leaving all the glory for the younger Dwarfs.

Some people mistake his quietness and sad expression for laziness and a lack of will. Make no mistake, Nali is a proud Dwarf and will not suffer to be scorned by the likes of others beneath his contempt and is capable of bending others to his will. When roused he is a deadly foe.

HISTORY:Nali was born in the year 2766 TA and is the the older brother of Loni. His father was a wealthy Seer in the Dwarven colony in the Blue Mountains. Nali's life was a pleasant one in the mountains. While still young, Nali developed a keen curiosity for things and he often went exploring in the caves with his younger brother Loni. Such curiosity led his parents to believe that he would be a gem tradesmen, but Nali's interests soon were turned towards lore and languages.

After the declaration of the War of the Dwarves and Orcs, their father left Nali and Loni to fight alongside king Thrain II. Their father was killed six years after his departure at the battle of Azanulbizar, and several years after this he left with his brother to become Thanes under King Dain II Ironfoot.

The king was pleased with their service and both the brothers were high in the king's thoughts. Nali, being the more studious of the two, he would often spend nights and days looking over old parchments. He was in-particularly interested in the old writings about Khazad-dum.

When duty called again, he mustered Dwarves and fought at The Battle of the Five Armies. Although he led a small band of Dwarves, under the fierce leadership of a Dwarf named Tror, he did an admirable job with keeping his band together. After the victory, Nali was content to go back to his home in the Iron Hills and live there in peace.

However, after fifty, or so, years of solitude word began to spread about a expedition, led by Balin, to retake the Dwarrowdelf for the the Dwarves. This news excited him at first, but it took much debate with himself in order to convince him to take the matter seriously. Finally, he consented to the urge to follow Balin, and gathered his house and overtook Balin just as the group was leaving. Since then he has lived in comfort in his new home and has not regretted the choice he had made five years prior and is most fond of his new found friends in the colony, namely the masons.
____________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Very unorthodox for a dwarf girl, but very well done, it will be interesting the way that your character plays out.

Unorthodox? I actually think she is pretty close to "THE" Dwarf woman, in many things, as the Dwarven women are described in LotR.

Anyway - the other thing - nice characters, Kath! And I like your Náli too, Groin - especially him and Kath's Hepti provide some interesting variety (Náli especially in his weaponry - did you notice that almost EVERY Dwarf here has an axe? I mean, yes, it's classic, but what the??? Even "average" Dwarven warriors did not all fight with axes, I would actually even dare to speculate that axes were in minority. Look at what Dáin's people had in the Battle of the Five Armies - just like every army. Anyway). Is there anyone willing to take Lóni? I won't mind taking him (and, he's going to die soon anyway), but if anybody wishes to take him... Groin, maybe you should have given people more time, there are many people who have just one character and perhaps somebody would like to take Náli or Lóni for a short while as a second.

[Thinlómien]

You people are making all this date stuff unnecessarily complicated. Legate dear, do you understand you could actually have saved that 45 minutes of work if we had just simply decided Durin's day could have been November 10th? ;) Anyway, if the matter is now settled, I'm not complaining by any means...

Kath and Groin - more great bios, I see. I'm especially curious to see what will happen if Ori and Hepti meet if he scorns women and she scorns men... :D

Very unorthodox for a dwarf girl, but very well done, it will be interesting the way that your character plays out.Not actually. I think the only unorthodox part is the one about military training, but it actually came there accidentally... And don't you call her a girl, she's older than your Tror... :p

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

You people are making all this date stuff unnecessarily complicated. Legate dear, do you understand you could actually have saved that 45 minutes of work if we had just simply decided Durin's day could have been November 10th? Anyway, if the matter is now settled, I'm not complaining by any means...
Silli, I wanted to ensure we are not going to be uncanonical! And in any case, I feel better when knowing that whatever thing I write about, it is supported by what is written. :) Besides, if anything indicated for example that the Durin's Day will more likely occur later than earlier, I would go for supporting Groin's original idea (of having it on the last day).

Anyway, I am looking forward to any possible exchanges between Ori and Hepti too :D That sure should happen, at least once... ;)

[Thinlómien]

Silli, I wanted to ensure we are not going to be uncanonical!Yes, yes, canonicity guard strikes once again... :p;)

Anyway, I'd like to say two things to everybody now that I still remember - there are two things you should come up with for your characters in case you already haven't.
1) You should think what your character has mainly been doing in the colony, how is his/her ordinary life there. Writing will be difficult if you don't know this.
2) You should think about which other characters your character knows. It will be easier if you have friends or family around. Also, the colony is after all rather small, so you've probably at least seen almost everybody, so it would make sense you'd know at least one of the other characters. And like I said, it's always easier to start if you have someone you can easily interact with... :)
I will look for possible friends/acquaintances/enemies/relatives for my characters tomorrow and then make some suggestions. Right now, I'm too tired to take up such task and it's late anyway...

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Yes, good points, and actually good idea with the other characters - it occured to me that I could for example write (maybe just for my own orientation, but maybe also for others', also for them to eventually consult it with me) a table, resp. a list of all the characters, and note to each what relation, or at least what feelings my character has towards each of the others (and how well he knows them, if just casually, or more, friendly etc.). I will do that separately for each of my characters... in this way, I think maybe everybody could do it like that? It would be an easy way to clear things up, first for yourself, then for the others, too. (And eventually, the first drafts can be rearranged by consulting among the players - like that they talk and mutually agree that their characters are actually going to hold a grudge against each other, or quite the opposite, be long-time friends, etc.)

[piosenniel]

I guess since nobody has taken Loni or Nali, I'm going to take the Nali. If nobody takes Loni by tomorrow, I will take him as well. Hey, since all the character bios are in, except for Nali and Loni, I guess that it's OK to open the game thread!:D Huzzah!

Are both you and Lommy ready to facilitate the game?

If so, I'll open the thread. Are there any directives you'd like to give the posters about their first posts?

Please do get the Character Bio for Loni on board before you post for him.

Since Child of the 7th Age is busy at the present, I'll be the Moderator for this RPG. I'll read along and step in only as needed or requested.

Looking forward to seeing how this game plays out!

~*~ Pio

[Thinlómien]

Are both you and Lommy ready to facilitate the game?
If so, I'll open the thread. Are there any directives you'd like to give the posters about their first posts?I think we should wait a couple of more days so everybody gets to negotiate a little about their characters relations before action begins, also, I think we game owners need to exchange one or two PMs before evreything is clear.

And this is important: I will write the first post and Groin will write the next one, but after we've got the ball rolling, everybody may post in any order and just as much as they please.

We will inform you a bit more about the starting point once we've decided about a thing or two. Please bear with us... I'm sometimes incredibly slow at planning things or getting them done. But like I said already, we should be able to start the game in a few days. I will start drafting my first post already today so I may post it as soon as pio opens the thread.

[Thinlómien]

Just because I was curious I wanted to list all the characters in an order of their ages... It looks rather interesting:

Nali 227 (Groin)
Óin 220 (Legate)
Kénan 210 (Folwren)
Ori 194 (Lommy)
Frar 175 (Gwath)
Vigdis 147 (Lommy)
Trór 140 (Groin)
Svior 130 (Kath)
Onli 126 (Legate)
Hepti 125 (Kath)
Vitr 101 (Arry)
Dalin ~100 (Himaran)
Gror 95 (Boro)
Kórin 92 (Dury)
Kór 88 (Dury)
Lys and Nîsa 87 (Lilly and Groin)
Buri 85 (Gwath)
Bain 80 (Dim)
Adela 52 (Ilya)
Kéni 20 (Kit)
Iari 10 (Kit)
Tiv and Tíva 7 (Lilly&Arry)

I think the ages go rather nicely...

And looking at all these Dwarves, they amuse me. Somehow people always pick names that amuse me as a Finn. Don't worry, there's nothing too bad around this time :D - just that: tror = believe (Swedish), naali (close enough to Náli) = arctic fox (Finnish), and ori = stallion (Finnish again, and I know, it's me who plays him... and as a sidenote, "kili" means a little goat in Finnish). And Jari would be a Finnish man's name but it took me a very long time to even vaguely connect that with Iari.

Okay, to return to a bit more serious stuff...

I also thought a list of professions would be good (now please correct me if I've got something wrong about your characters) if not for anything else, than at least when thinking about possible connections:

Trór - Balin's second in command, warrior
Nîsa - sort of a healer, no special profession
Nali - loremaster, warrior
Ori - ironsmith, sort of loremaster, semi-warrior
Vigdis - mason, semi-warrior
Óin - scout (that includes warriorism/semi-warriorism)
Onli - adminstratory guy
Frar - warrior
Buri - smith
Kór and Kórin - no special professions?
Lys - jewellry smith (is that a word?)
Vitr - jack of all trades craftsman (prefers working on mithril)
Bain - craftsman (not specified)
Kénan - no special profession?
Gror - warrior, messenger
Dalin - weaponsmith (again, is that a word?), semi-warrior
Adela - cook
Svior - jack-of-all-trades, semi-warrior, learning mining
Hepti - smith

Kath - do you think Vigdis and Hepti being friends would sound good? Not probably very close friends as they both strike me as a bit workaholic ;) but I just have the feeling they would probably get along well...

Groin - you said Nali is the friend of masons? That would mean he'd know Vigdis, most probably. Do we want them to be friends or do we want Vigdis have some silly old grudge against him? I think either of those ideas would be good... Also, as a loremaster and old, important dwarf, Nali would probably know Ori. I think we can assume they're friends?

Legate - I have no idea why I'm writing this as it's so obvious, but Ori and Óin are surely friends?

Arry - you mentioned stone masonry as being one of Vitr's professions. Would it be ok for you if he and Vigdis were friends?

Okay, that's all that seems obvious to me. I will try to think of a few more connections to my characters... also, anyone, if you'd like my characters to know yours, just ask - it'd be great. :)

And now, lastly, one more reminder for everybody: practically everyone is going to die in this RPG. Also, we have quite a lot of characters. So, especially those who have more than one character, don't shy away from killing off them even quite early. It's better if they don't all die in the last battle. I may personally say that I will save Ori to the last moments since that's what LotR says, but Vigdis will be killed of before that. Also, hmm, don't take these words of mine too seriously - don't ruin your RPG experience by pondering all the time how you could get your characters killed. *would add a smiley, but you know, there's a limit....*

[Folwren]

Don't you think that to a certain extent, all the dwarves would know each other? At least on speaking basis. They won't all be perfect strangers to each other, surely. It'd be something like a small town community. First, they had to travel together from Dale to Moria, and then they've been living in the same area together, and there really aren't all that many of them.

Just my thoughts on the matter...

[Groin Redbeard]

Not actually. I think the only unorthodox part is the one about military training, but it actually came there accidentally...
OK, not very unorthodox (a better word would be original). That military training struck me as strange, but not unlikely;), that and her parents breaking up but that was about it.

And don't you call her a girl, she's older than your Tror... Yes ma'am.:p

Groin - you said Nali is the friend of masons? That would mean he'd know Vigdis, most probably. Do we want them to be friends or do we want Vigdis have some silly old grudge against him? I think either of those ideas would be good... Also, as a loremaster and old, important dwarf, Nali would probably know Ori. I think we can assume they're friends? I think that it would be more likely for a certain level of animosity between the two of them. Vigdis you say likes masonry and turned books down a longtime ago, whereas books are Nali's pursuit. Also, Nali might not appreciate a girl (oops...:D) such as Vigdis, being a dwarf of high quality he's use to higher class women.

Don't you think that to a certain extent, all the dwarves would know each other? At least on speaking basis. They won't all be perfect strangers to each other, surely. It'd be something like a small town community. First, they had to travel together from Dale to Moria, and then they've been living in the same area together, and there really aren't all that many of them. Right, there should be a certain level of familiarity between the Dwarves, but people do tend to hang out with people who they like.

I'll see what I can do for my characters.

[Kath]

Kath - do you think Vigdis and Hepti being friends would sound good? Not probably very close friends as they both strike me as a bit workaholic but I just have the feeling they would probably get along well...
Sounds like a plan Lommy. A bit of a friends when they meet but they don't really seek each other out thing?

[Groin Redbeard]

There are so many wonderful characters here that I found great difficulty picking out the ones that my characters most adapt to. Fortunately there is at least one of every type of personality here, no shortages on characters to choose from.:)

Tror

Thinlomien- Ori and Tror definately know each other and obviously are friends.

Legate- Same thing as I told Lommy, although Oin might be Tror's best friend. Oin is obviosly more of a battle hardened type and Tror would depend on him greatly when in battle, ergo a relationship must have been formed if they are to work closely together.

Gwath- I had trouble with your character. Frar is definately a warrior like Tror and by the looks of it they are pretty much par with fighting ability (but if one is to be better than the other, I'd say you win), now Tror can take this as rivalry or he can simply acknowledge that you are the better man. Personally I think a bit of rivalry between the two would be nice:p, what do you think?

Folwren- Your character Kenan is pretty much in line to Tror's way of thinking. Although he is younger than your character I think that Kenan and him are pretty much alike. Unfortunately I don't know where to go with it, should there be a quiet fatherly friendship between the two?

Nisa

Kath- Nisa might have a crush on Hepti, would that be fine. *smiley*

Ilya- I think that it would be probable that Nisa and Adela would know each other, being the same age and all. Would this be alright with you?

Lilly- Lys, if it is alright with you, would be the one that Nisa would hang out with the most. Although your character is a bit rough (personality wise) something just keeps telling me that Nisa and her would get along. Would this be fine?

Arry/Lilly- Children would be a soft spot for Nisa, giving her gentle nature, would it be fine if the children new her?

Kitanna- The same with your character Iari, she's so cute and think that Nisa could resist to lover her. *big grin*

Lommy- That girl (oops... this is getting fun *big smile*) Vigdis would grind with Nisa's gentle nature. Do you think that it would be alright to have a some resentment towards them (working class vs. aristocracy)?

Nali

Lommy- They would definately know each other and intrigue each other.

To your character Vigdis, I've been thinking about it and Nali might actually like Vigdis more than I thought. Maybe just some mere admiration for her work, but I don't know if Vigdis will accept this or be disgusted by it.

Durelin- I thinking that it might be possible that on some occasion your character, Korin, made an insult/joke at Nali and being the silent serious fellow he is, took it to heart and has had contempt for her since. Something along those line *smiles* if this sounds good to you that's fine, but I don't think that Nali would get along with Korin even if that didn't happen.

Folwren- Do you think that Nali and Keanan might get along? Being around the same age I thought that they might know eath other, those oldtimers kind of stick with each other.

All you players who have feisty dwarves- Nali is a thinker and might often listen to the debates that the other dwarves have, but rarely take part in them. So just a note that some of the dwarves, whose nature is to argue, might know him (and he know them).


Wow, my characters have a lot of friends!:eek: I might have to cut back on them before the game begins! *winks*

[Durelin]

Hmm, I guess Kor and Korin are a little purposeless...do you want me to give them a craft? I mean, they could easily be fine basic laborers. But mostly they're *here* simply for the adventure and because of pride for their people. Especially Korin. Kor is more of a tag along.

I thinking that it might be possible that on some occasion your character, Korin, made an insult/joke at Nali and being the silent serious fellow he is, took it to heart and has had contempt for her since. Something along those line *smiles* if this sounds good to you that's fine, but I don't think that Nali would get along with Korin even if that didn't happen.

I think Korin would rub a lot of people the wrong way - probably she wouldn't get along with Nali or Nisa. Kor on the other hand will probably get along with everyone, because outwardly he is quite nice and polite and soft-spoken, though I am sure especially some of the warrior types might think he's a little odd. Nali might actually like him, though...we'll have to see I think. :)

I think we'll see as the game gets started what characters just seem to gravitate to others...but I agree with Folwren that at least all of them should know each other by face/name. It's also simpler that way for the game. :D

[Dimturiel]

I just realised I did not say what exactly Bain does as a craftsman. Well, I was thinking he might be a smith-working mostly with jewelry, but also with weapons from time to time. Also, I was thinking that the obvious people he is most aquainted with are those that have the same profession as his. I believe they were bound to have spent quite a lot of time together in the colony, especially at the beginning when they have probably been working together at all sorts of things...

[Kath]

Haha that would be absolutely fine Groin! :D

[Ilya]

Groin: Nisa's actually a few years older, but I can see them definitely knowing each other and Adela slipping her herbs and stuff on the sly or something. :)

[Thinlómien]

Just to clarify, yes, the Dwarves will probably know each other's faces at least. Also, no way do we have to know who's whose friend at this point. But everybody who thinks they'd feel better knowing their characters relations beforehand, feel free to make suggestions. It's just whichever way of working you prefer. I will probably ask for more friends/relations/rivals for my characters as the game progresses and inspiration strikes, and you others are encouraged to do that too...

That military training struck me as strange, but not unlikely, that and her parents breaking up but that was about it. Oh, but that was even more accidental. :D Dwarf women just always struck me as rather independent, and of course it was no way an official divorce of anything, if that eases your conservative mind, my friend... ;)

And anyway, I predict it will be good to have one woman around who is not so young (not that she's old either...) and who has some military training...

I think that it would be more likely for a certain level of animosity between the two of them. Vigdis you say likes masonry and turned books down a longtime ago, whereas books are Nali's pursuit. Also, Nali might not appreciate a girl (oops...) such as Vigdis, being a dwarf of high quality he's use to higher class women.Sounds good. And PS. Nali may call Vigdis a girl since he's that old, but I don't promise she will take it kindly... *mischevious grin*

Sounds like a plan Lommy. A bit of a friends when they meet but they don't really seek each other out thing?Yep.

Lommy- That girl (oops... this is getting fun *big smile*) Vigdis would grind with Nisa's gentle nature. Do you think that it would be alright to have a some resentment towards them (working class vs. aristocracy)?Yesss! I think Vigdis would consider women like Nîsa pretty useless... ;)

To your character Vigdis, I've been thinking about it and Nali might actually like Vigdis more than I thought. Maybe just some mere admiration for her work, but I don't know if Vigdis will accept this or be disgusted by it.
Oh, sounds good - I will think about it how Vigdis thinks about him and his attitude...

Hmm, I guess Kor and Korin are a little purposeless...do you want me to give them a craft? I mean, they could easily be fine basic laborers.They don't necessarily need to have one, but you should maybe think about whow they made their living back home etc...

And lastly, if the last-minute planning takes time, it's all my fault. :-)

[Gwathagor]

Dwarf women just always struck me as rather independent, and of course it was no way an official divorce of anything, if that eases your conservative mind, my friend... ;)


What a picture you must have of conservatives.

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Legate - I have no idea why I'm writing this as it's so obvious, but Ori and Óin are surely friends?
Of course. Indeed pretty unnecessary to even ask that :)

Legate- Same thing as I told Lommy, although Oin might be Tror's best friend. Oin is obviosly more of a battle hardened type and Tror would depend on him greatly when in battle, ergo a relationship must have been formed if they are to work closely together.
The first part sounds good - although that doesn't necessarily mean that Óin considers Tror his best friend, because for certain, he knows at least Ori probably for lot longer and had gone through more and more dramatic situations with him (like being almost baked by a Dragon ;) ). As for the battle thing, Óin is more of a "solo" type when it comes to fighting: he has this military experience and knows about tactics and sticking together, but he is not a "professional" warrior. It was just his "racial responsibility" to go to Azanulbizar when he was younger. Then, it is probable that in all the occassions when Tror and him fought together (i.e. here in Moria when they were chasing the Orcs out), he was together with him in a few battles, but Óin is not the one into big battles, but rather a member of a small group who flanks the people etc., where I would probably expect Tror to be the leader of the main wave. So, what do you think?

Oh, but that was even more accidental. Dwarf women just always struck me as rather independent, and of course it was no way an official divorce of anything, if that eases your conservative mind, my friend...
Well, I would have hoped you did not have any "official" divorce in mind in the first place - for that will sound really out-of-place. *incanonity police goes back again to its office*

Say what, I will re-read all the characters and will post another longer post (now this sounds like WW! Oh my!), now concerning the possible relations of my characters towards everybody.

And, by the way, I did not seem to see any answer, not from Groin, nor from anybody else: I take it that I should take Lóni, then?

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Well, I guess in general most of the relations would form really "on the run", during the game, when we'll see which characters appeal to whom etc. But at least now, as for any deeper relationships, for Óin (I have noted it also for myself, but half for you others, possibly only as some outline which may serve you for inspiration):

Trór - well, I already said that above. Most likely, Óin is going to regard Trór in the context of his memories, sort of identifying him unconsciously with Thráin or Thorin Oakenshield, the military leaders he knew (aside from Balin). He also sees him as a young leader who has the pespective to become a "Thorin of Moria" (or Thráin), if the colony continues to exist.

Nisa - As you also write, she probably knows Óin a bit better, and I think Óin finds her a kind and nice young girl, although he just thinks it and does not say anything much to appreciate her or such.

Náli - Óin counts both him and Lóni as "veterans" and I find it likely that THEY are of the "good old friends" type. So, I actually think this "buddy"-feeling is with those two, while Trór is a (perspective) youngster for Óin still. The more, all these explorations and things make it likely that Óin was somewhere just with Náli and Lóni several times, exploring some levels of Moria and perhaps making a discovery or two.

Frár - same as above with the veteran thing. I think they could know each other for a long time, like the types who meet with other friends around a... barrel of beer or something.

Kór&Kórin - actually, I am pretty convinced Óin likes their music and would like to hear them more, although he does not get to tell that to them usually, he admires them mainly because he is not such a good musician as many others are.

I also think that Óin would have some friendlier and more than just "I know about that one" attitude to Kénan (though maybe a bit more formal, like, sort of reserved, "two old gentlemen who are not much extrovert"?).

Say what you think, if you agree or disagree on something... and if anybody thinks of anything else, just tell me.

***

As for Onli, I am not particularly clear on all relations he has, but I am pretty positive that he was trying to make acquaintances with everybody around here. He surely was in more contact (on a business-basis, mostly) with:

Trór (trying to get on a friendly side with the high-ups), Náli (mapping carefully the progress of any of his new finds), Ori, Vigdis, Óin (same as with Náli), Buri, Lys (!!!), Vitr (!!!) - I think Onli was trying to exploit the family in the past, by the way - Bain, Gror (surely started to get all friendly with him immediately after he appeared, trying to get news about what's going on in Erebor), Dalin, Svior and Hepti.

Enough in contact, I believe, for them to make their opinion on him. He is this smooth-talk like people who stop you and try to sell you something, I hope you all get the picture. So not everybody must necessarily see through him, but I am convinced that there will be people - but that's rather on you to choose - who will dislike him (and some who could be simply annoyed with him, but not more perhaps?). Also, there may be somebody who has either problems or on the other hand, who likes his ferret. Óin, for one, is a bit annoyed with the animal popping up at him when he returns from some lonely journey to upper/lower levels.

[Folwren]

Groin, I finally having time to answer your inquiries about your characters' relationship with my character, Kenan.

Folwren- Your character Kenan is pretty much in line to Tror's way of thinking. Although he is younger than your character I think that Kenan and him are pretty much alike. Unfortunately I don't know where to go with it, should there be a quiet fatherly friendship between the two?

Well, there are two options. Either we can go ahead with what you just suggested, a quiet fatherly friendship between the two...in which case Kenan would view Tror as somewhat...foolish maybe? to loose his temper a lot - of course, failing to see that is how he is himself. Probably at this point in time (with Kenan being 210 and Tror 140), Kenan does not give advice like a father would a son.

A more likely scenerio would be for the two dwarve's characters to clash - for the two of them to not even like the sight of one another. This could be easily explained - they had a quarrel over something and neither can get over it. This could provide some interesting writing fodder for us, if the game ever gets boring. ;)

So, you decide what you want with these two characters and how they relate to each other. I am not necessarily looking for enemies at this point, I am honestly thinking that Kenan will have no difficulty in making other people mad at him.

Do you think that Nali and Kenan might get along? Being around the same age I thought that they might know eath other, those oldtimers kind of stick with each other.

Yes, I think that this is a likely do. The opposites in character types will help in any friendship we wish to create.

---------

So! When do we start?

-- Foley

[Thinlómien]

So! When do we start?I have asked Groin if we should suggest that pio would open the thread on Monday so that I'd have my first post written already then and could post it rightaway, but he has not replied... I need a few days to write a proper thread for Balin. ;)

edit: like Legate nicely pointed out, I should have written "a proper death", not "a proper thread" :rolleyes: :D

[Groin Redbeard]

Trór - well, I already said that above. Most likely, Óin is going to regard Trór in the context of his memories, sort of identifying him unconsciously with Thráin or Thorin Oakenshield, the military leaders he knew (aside from Balin). He also sees him as a young leader who has the pespective to become a "Thorin of Moria" (or Thráin), if the colony continues to exist.Thorin of Moria? That would be an honor!:D

It sounds like Tror and Oin would have more of an professional understanding rather than a true friendship, this sounds good.

Also, there may be somebody who has either problems or on the other hand, who likes his ferret. Óin, for one, is a bit annoyed with the animal popping up at him when he returns from some lonely journey to upper/lower levels.Well Tror for one would be very anoid by it, Nisa would think that it's cute, and Nali would dismiss it as typical silly younger generation.:)

Lommy, I replied to your PM. Monday it is!:D

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

*cough* Groin, are you sure you are not mistaking me with Lommy? In the post above where you quote "her", that is ;)

[Groin Redbeard]

:o Sorry Legate, I just finished sending Lommy a PM. I quoted and pasted her so much that I must have put her in here by instinct. I fixed it, is it better?:D


A more likely scenerio would be for the two dwarve's characters to clash - for the two of them to not even like the sight of one another. This could be easily explained - they had a quarrel over something and neither can get over it. This could provide some interesting writing fodder for us, if the game ever gets boring. I like this idea better of the two. Tror and Kenan, for themost part, will be at odds and the friendship part will be left up to Nali. Smart observation with Nali and Kenan, opposites attract in chemistry.:D

So! When do we start?Hopefully Lommy will have her post done on monday and it will open then.

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Fine now, Groin :) And now, here comes Lóni - we should be complete now:

NAME: Lóni

AGE: 224

RACE: Dwarf of the house of Durin

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: A simple shortbow with twenty arrows. The arrowheads are ones made by a smith* in the recaptured Moria. Lóni is a good „sniper“, but for possible close-combat he never forgets to carry a flangless light mace with him, which is not very different from a simple club.

APPEARANCE: Lóni is a bit taller than an average Dwarf, even perhaps an inch or two taller than his brother, even though being the younger one. Like his brother's, his beard is golden, and his one eye is mild grey. He lost his right eye during the Battle of the Five Armies, being slashed (just „touched“, almost, but enough to damage his eye) by an axe – probably Dwarven one, though carried by a goblin. He still has a scar running from the root of his nose towards his right cheek.

Lóni does not have as much liking of jewelry like his brother does, although he wears two silver rings on his fingers. He likes to wear bright yellow cloak with orange hood, since his coming to Moria he wears it over a simple leather armor. Into the battle, he carries a hauberk of bright mail hanging down to his knees and a helmet covering the sides of his head and his nose, and it has a round-shaped honey-yellow stone set in the forehead covering. The helmet is a part of treasure found in Moria, protected from goblin loots by lying along with its former owner in a deep cistern near the entrance to deep mines under Caradhras. Lóni always cares about his arms and armor to be in a perfect condition.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Lóni is an outgoing fellow, friendly and kind to those around him, ready to support them with a helpful remark. He does not have as much wisdom and knowledge as his brother has, nor has he had the patience to study old tomes and scrolls, but he remembers a lot from what his brother had ever told him. When being in a leading place, he tries to do the job well, but at the same time keeping friendly attitude to everyone. He does not desperately wish to lead, but he often ends up in such a position and knows what to do. He is not too talkative, but he knows when it is right to say a few words. Lóni gets hardly ever angry, and overall it is unusual for him to show strong emotions, though his mere presence can be supportive for many.

HISTORY: Lóni was the born the same year when dragon fire descended on the Dwarven kingdom of Erebor. Perhaps this is why his parents both saw Lóni as being born in the times of strife for all Dwarves as a sign of hope, that there will be things which will continue despite all sorrows of the world. Certainly, during all his life, despite the fact that he was not lucky in finding himself a wife, Lóni made his parents and many Dwarves around himself happy. With recounting old tales he learned from his brother, he is a companion sought out by many. Since being young, he mimicked his older brother Náli in many things, consciously or unconsciously, with more or less good results. His brother is very important to him, more important than anybody else. Together, they were in Azanulbizar, in service of King Dáin in the Iron Hills, in the Battle of the Five Armies, later in Erebor, and now in Moria with Balin, whom Lóni had always regarded as a very honorable Dwarf.


*I would like to ask one of you smith-character-owners to be the ones who made Lóni's arrows. It may be a nice feature and the characters may know each other a bit better, perhaps, too. Which will, by the way, mean that your character will have one loss of a friend happening in his life soon (Lóni is going to die relatively early). Any interest?
________________________

LINKED TO PLAYER - CHARACTER LIST (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=572075&postcount=10) ~*~ Pio

[Gwathagor]

*I would like to ask one of you smith-character-owners to be the ones who made Lóni's arrows. It may be a nice feature and the characters may know each other a bit better, perhaps, too. Which will, by the way, mean that your character will have one loss of a friend happening in his life soon (Lóni is going to die relatively early). Any interest?


Buri could do it.

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Buri could do it.

Sounds good. If you wish, we can do it the way that Lóni and Buri are on quite friendly terms, like being really friends - as Buri seems to me, they could get together well quite easily.

[Thinlómien]

This looks great. :)

And I'm almost working on schedule, too. ;)

One last thing for everybody to chew: please think what was your character's relationship with Balin. (Did they know personally? If yes, why and how? Did your character like Balin or dislike him? Respect him? Has Balin's Moria quest been a disappointment or a satisfactory work for your character?)

[piosenniel]

I just opened the RPG thread.

Everyone - please wait until Lommy has put up her post before you begin posting.
____________________

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. . . I always ask myself if any of these words or euphemisms for cursing would be found in Tolkien's works. So I always say no to cursing and to any 'pseudo-cursing'. They need to keep it clean. -- per The Barrow-Wight

[Thinlómien]

I will submit my post as soon as I've written this.

Now, Groin and I were thinking that Ori, Náli, Lóni and Trór would probably be there when Balin is shot. Foley and Gwath, you may decide whether Kenan and Frar are there (depends on how well they know Balin). There can be a couple of Balin's NPC friends, too, but we don't have to think about them too much. Legate, we were thinking that Óin wouldn't be there, but scouting around and he and his companions could then bring the word of the bigger Orc group.

We will try to get Balin's killers killed and his body to Moria in a few posts so that we are all more or less in the same place (except Boro, who I understand has been making special arrangements with Groin). But you others don't have to be idle while we write about Balin's death and the fight, of course - you may write about your characters' normal life, it will bring a nice (nice?) contrast with the soon coming news of Balin's death and the approaching Orc army...

And lastly, Groin, Boro and Legate, you need to get this Orc army/scouting/where are Óin and Gror stuff solved, I don't want to get muddled in it because Groin was the one who had a clear vision about it. ;) So, basically, we can expect that Groin will talk about these things with you players and inform me when it's solved. ;)

I guess that's all for now. Feel free to post (and ask questions, many things are open even to me at this phase :D).

[Thinlómien]

And just one more thing - whoever writes about the fight next may take Ori into the action, too. His numb staring is to be momentary, he won't stand there for more than half a minute or so... ;)

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Legate, we were thinking that Óin wouldn't be there, but scouting around and he and his companions could then bring the word of the bigger Orc group.
Sounds fine with me. In that case, if Groin informs me of any plans he has, no problem :)

Ah... this looks just great. Huh! Now, let's see how this runs... And I hope I will be able to post for Lóni soon! (After all, he has a bow, so he actually has probably the first chance to do something...)

[Gwathagor]

I think that I would like to have Frar there. Should I determine myself what his relationship with Balin, or would you (Thinlomien) and Groin like to decide based on what works best with your plans for the story?

[Lilly]

Lommy - I've cued off your the first drumrolls of doom and destruction echoing loudly in the cold autumn air... and made a drumroll of an altogether celebratory nature.

Durin's Day is the birthday for the twins. And once Arry's Vitr has quit the workshop and come home, I hope many of you Dwarves not involved in the outside occurence will drop by and have a drink and a little something to eat.

[Arry]

Nicely done, Lilly! Making Durin's Day Tív and Tíva's birthday!

I'll get a post up later tonight that brings Vitr home to his little family. Gee, I guess he better have thought up some sort of gifts, eh?

- Arry

[Thinlómien]

Great posts, everybody! :D I'm enjoying this RPG so much already - I hope I'm able to get a post up for Vigdis soon. (Lilly, that drumroll thing is very much approved. I always like it when someone comes up with a fitting connection like that. ;))

I think that I would like to have Frar there. Should I determine myself what his relationship with Balin, or would you (Thinlomien) and Groin like to decide based on what works best with your plans for the story?We trust your judgement. (If we had a special wish, we would have informed you. :))

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Yea, this far, great posts everybody! I only look forward to what more is to come! I like it the way it goes now.

Ookay... so, I posted a bit, not for the one who is "in the heat", though (Lóni), because I wanted to write something "proper" for him, and I just got a stroke of inspiration when I saw dim's post. (I hope that's okay how I did it? That was classic Onli for you. :) ) Anyway, looking forward to more posting... I think now is the great time to introduce all our characters...

And I should post soon for at least Lóni, too...

[Groin Redbeard]

Great posts everyone!:D This RPG is off to a grand start, unfortunately I don't have time to praise all your wonderful posts, I'll do some repping tomorrow.;)

I think that I would like to have Frar there. Should I determine myself what his relationship with Balin, or would you (Thinlomien) and Groin like to decide based on what works best with your plans for the story?

I talked to Lommy about this and I thought it probable that Frar be with Balin, but Lommy has wisely not imposed upon your character and let you choose for yourself.:)

I have a post ready for Nisa, but first I need to know something. Do any of ya'll think that there would be a feast on Durin's Day?

[Arry]

Groin R

A feast would be good. I should imagine that Dwarves would love the chance to party!

Vitr, Lys, and family would most likely be a little late for the party - it is the twins' 7th birthday.

Anyone who'd like to stop by their place before going on to the feast can raise a cup of Lys' special brewed ale or a cup of Vitr's Dwarven Spirit homebrew. :)

---

Lilly

So, there in one off the cuff sentence I've managed to make you a brewer of ale! :p

[Gwathagor]

Exactly what part of Khazad-dum have the dwarves occupied? Just for context, I'd be interested to know where they have set up their living quarters and other such things.

[Arry]

According to the references, the Dwarves from Balin's expedition are living in the Twenty-first Hall.

From the Thain's Book (http://www.tuckborough.net/index.htm):

In 2989, Balin led an expedition to Moria with a number of Dwarves from the Lonely Mountain, including Floi, Frar, Loni, Nali, Oin, and Ori. When they arrived in the Dimrill Dale, Balin and the Dwarves found Orcs guarding the Dimrill Gate. Floi was killed, but the Dwarves slew many Orcs and took up residence in the Twenty-first Hall. Ori began to keep a record of the colony called the Book of Mazarbul.

Balin set up his seat in the Chamber of Mazarbul and was named Lord of Moria. The Dwarves found mithril in Moria but their colony lasted only five years. On November 10, 2994, Balin went into Dimrill Dale to look into Mirrormere and was shot and killed by an Orc. He was entombed in the Chamber of Mazarbul.

-- For more of the geography/layout of Khazad-dum/Moria see HERE (http://www.tuckborough.net/moria.html)

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

More about the location of the Twenty-first Hall in relation to the Chamber of Mazarbul:

The Chamber of Mazarbulwas located on the Seventh Level of Khazad-dum, six levels above the East-gate. It was north of the Twenty-first Hall on the right-hand or east side of the corridor. The main entrance from the corridor was a stone door on hinges.

The Chamber of Mazarbul was a large square room. There was a window shaft high in the eastern wall and below it was a second door leading to a downward staircase. Records were kept in wooden iron-bound chests that were set in recesses in the walls.

-- Full Reference - HERE (http://www.tuckborough.net/otherbuildings.html#Chamber-Mazarbul)

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

This is a good reference site for game-players about the layout of Khazad-dum based on quotes from The Lord of the Rings - HERE (http://forums.lotro.com/showthread.php?t=126670) (see the entries on the Twenty-first Hall and the Chamber of Mazarbul, especially).

[Groin Redbeard]

Thanks for that information Arry, I'm glad to see that some of our players are knowledgable on the subject!:D

If it's alright with everyone I'll get a post up for Nisa this afternoon. It's sad that we have so much merry making at the moment. It will all have to come to an end when the nobles return.:(

Speaking of the nobles, Gwath, have you decided yet if Frar going to be with them?

[Thinlómien]

If it's alright with everyone I'll get a post up for Nisa this afternoon. It's sad that we have so much merry making at the moment. It will all have to come to an end when the nobles return.:(But that's the main point in all this! It works incredibly well! :D I mean, I think it has been awesome this far - all the merry-making and everyday work contrasted with the few posts about the fight by Mirrormere.

PS. Groin, I edited my post for Ori so that Tror shouts the same words in both our posts, I figured it would make more sense. ;)

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Looks very, very good to me this far. Only, Gwath, one thing. Perhaps you should edit your post - neither Náli, nor Lóni bear axes. That said - and that goes for everyone - when writing about somebody else's character, you should at least check what equipment he has or how he uses it, when you are already writing about him.

And actually, maybe this is the time to remind - be careful when writing about somebody else's characters. It is one thing to include another character in your post, but a different thing to choose how he acts. Actually, I think it's one of the prime things you should have in mind when writing in the RPG, try to not act for other people's characters as much as it is possible. Let their players do it themselves.

P.S. I thought at first I would post something short for Lóni at least now, but seems I really need more time for that. On Friday I should have time at last. Well, many others can still post meanwhile...

[Groin Redbeard]

PS. Groin, I edited my post for Ori so that Tror shouts the same words in both our posts, I figured it would make more sense. ;)Ahh, did I do that. I specifically told myself to watch out for that and to get the words right. I guess I didn't listen, thanks Lommy.:D

Gwath, glad that you decided to join in the action. I was afraid that it would seem to superhero like if only four dwarves took on an entire band of orcs (not that I'm saying they couldn't do it;)).

I'll get my post up for Nisa now.

[Lilly]

Arry

I've left it to you to get us to the celebration. :)

[Arry]

I was wondering what sort of gift Vitr had made for the twins!

http://www.creativecrafthouse.com/bmz_cache/7/7ac011b8be86b102a167485a1eb81294.image.118x120.jpg

Nicely done!!

Alright, then I'll bring us to the Durin's Day party today.

[Thinlómien]

Folwren - do you want Kenan to be there with Balin or not? If he is, I'd like to see you write for him soon-ish so that we can bring the dead Lord in... (no hurry, though. This RPG has been moving on very well this far.)

[Arry]

I've put up a SAVE which I'll fill in later this evening. I'd like our little family to be in the midst of the revelries when when the news comes.

[Arry]

So, said SAVE is now filled. :cool:

Groin R - - Tív and Tív are making their way toward Nîsa, hoping she might have remembered it's their birthday. :p

Others of you Dwarves who are at the party already, I hope you'll say 'hello' to Vitr and Lys as they make their way through the crowd. :)

[Folwren]

I don't see any particular reason why he would be. He's old and is no one in particularly special. I can do it - that would be easy for me. The reason I haven't posted is because I haven't decided how to bring my character in, and I've been too busy with Thanksgiving and guests and all to sit down and think really hard. If I haven't posted by the end of today, then assume that I decided that he wasn't there with Balin.

-- Folwren

[Thinlómien]

Do whatever you will, Foley. :)

[Groin Redbeard]

Sounds good Arry, I'll get a post up for her later today.:)

Folwren, I was going to mention Kenan in my post for Nali, but I read your post here first. If you want I can edit my post and include Kenan in the action, I had a paragraph describing his fighting in the original post.

Things are moving beautifully everyone,:D I just wish that some of the other players might make their intro post soon.:)

[Folwren]

I have fulfilled your wishes, Lommy! I hope I have not exceeded them..:o I have posted for Kenan and brought Balin in. If that's a problem, I could edit it.

Thanks, Groin! It would have been interesting to see what you wrote, but I rather like it this way.

Let me know if anything needs to be changed, anyone.

--

Kitanna, I have mentioned in my post that the Grandkids would be at the Durin's Day party, if you are looking for a place to post and wondering where your kids would be. :)

[Durelin]

Others of you Dwarves who are at the party already, I hope you'll say 'hello' to Vitr and Lys as they make their way through the crowd.

Korin has done so! And I gave her a craft! Yeah. :D Kor is maybe just a bum...a bit of a beatnik. :p

[Thinlómien]

I have fulfilled your wishes, Lommy! I hope I have not exceeded them..:o I have posted for Kenan and brought Balin in. If that's a problem, I could edit it.You did well. :) Whoever wants may write about Balin being taken in now...

Although, I think we should wait a few days still and give Kath, Ilya and Himaran chances to post cheerful celebration posts before the news strike. But of course there's no point in waiting them if it's going to take ages. So let's see...

[Ilya]

Hey all! Sorry I've been AWOL for a while. Will make it my goal to put up a post tonight.

[Thinlómien]

Hey all! Sorry I've been AWOL for a while. Will make it my goal to put up a post tonight.Never mind and nice. :)

[Himaran]

Dalin got a little carried away in the forge and has missed (at the very least) the first portion of the celebration. He'll head there next, perhaps arriving during the imminent horror/confusion/pandamonium caused by the news of Balin's death... or before it, makes no difference to me. But do feel free to cart our lord on in!

[Boromir88]

I will be ready to enter with Gror whenever I'm needed.

If you would like I could do a post about leaving the Lonely Mountain and setting out for Moria. But I didn't think for this "tale" that would be necessary...?

Legate, check your PM. :D

[Thinlómien]

Ok, now we only need Kath and Ilya to post. It's going fine!

Himaran (do you have a nickname btw? :D) - wasn't your character's name Dalin, not Dwalin? ;)

If you would like I could do a post about leaving the Lonely Mountain and setting out for Moria. But I didn't think for this "tale" that would be necessary...?Well, it wouldn't fit there as such... but you could write Gror's musings and memories about it in some (not necessarily the first) post of yours. :) Just see and do what seems fit.

[Himaran]

Thinlómien: Yes, yes it is indeed... hmm thanks for pointing that out - post has been edited.

As for a nickname, you can just call me Him, which is amusing but honestly it's what people usually resort to. Or you can make something up. :D

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

All right, I have posted for Óin now and it is up to Boro to continue on with this part of the plot. I see it the way that eventually, news will be brought into Moria about the new threat: but for now, I think there is time to go on with the celebration, resp. with Balin's body being carried in, and with the reaction of everybody on that.

I may post for Onli in concern with the celebration now yet, but that's not the most important thing. We'll see.

[Boromir88]

Posted. Our meeting is finished Legate, if I need to change anything, let me know. :)

I didn't know when you wanted the Orcs to get to the East Gate, I just had Gror say he suspects they would be on top of the dwarves by nightfall. Next, I can have Gror see that a skirmish had just taken place near the Mirrormere, and learn about Balin's death. But anyway, Groin, whenever you're ready to have Gror give Tror the dire news, he's ready.

[Groin Redbeard]

Great posts everyone, glad to see that Him, Ilya and Boro haven't left us. Excellent posts, and well worth the wait.

Boro, whenever you want to talk to Tror that would be alright. I'm getting a post up for him. If it's alright I'm going to have the group of nobles stand for a moment outside the Eastern-Gate, it will not be a pleasant task anouncing the death of Balin.

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Posted. Our meeting is finished Legate, if I need to change anything, let me know. :)

Looks great, Boro! :) Only one thing, maybe, since you asked about it - if you could change the mark after "That is a threat indeed." into an exclamation mark. Just to give Óin's reaction a bit of a less "casual" tone. :)

[Groin Redbeard]

Alright, I'm done. The lone figure coming up the rode is Gror, but Tror does not know it and has asked if Ori could stay and give the news to who they think is Oin coming up the road.:)

[Thinlómien]

Alright, I'm done. The lone figure coming up the rode is Gror, but Tror does not know it and has asked if Ori could stay and give the news to who they think is Oin coming up the road.Nice scheming and overall - great posts everybody. :)

I will write something for Ori tomorrow and something for Vigdis as soon as the news have arrived and people have started wailing so much that she can hear it and come to see what's happening. (Ooh... I know I'm terribly evil but I can't wait to get to write her reaction! :D)

And lastly, in case someone is wondering about our last missing player, I've been talking with Kath and she's terribly busy with RL but she's aware this is going on and will post as soon as she can. :)

[Kitanna]

I have filled in my save though it took longer to do so than I had wanted. I do apologize for that.

[Arry]

Lilly

So, I posted. Let me know if I need to edit anything. I tried to keep within the bounds of how Vitr is looking at and thinking of Lys. And in keeping with our PM discussion.

-- Arry :)

[Lilly]

Looks just fine, Arry!!

I'll fill in my SAVE tomorrow that brings the Silverfists back together.

[Thinlómien]

Kath has asked us to wait with the big scheme of things before she posts, so let's not bring the news of Balin's death before she has written something for her characters. From what she said I assume she will try to post in a couple of hours from now, so it's not a big delay at any rate. :)

[Thinlómien]

I've left it for you to carry on, Boro. :) I assume Ori would take Gror to Tror. You can make him act a bit nicer and present himself, I should think he should have calmed down by those last words of his.

[Folwren]

Groin,

When I posted, I had no realized that Tror would be second in command, after Balin, and therefore now Lord of Moria. If you think it appropriate, I can edit my post and have it reflect that position with how Kenan addresses him.

-- Folwren

[Kath]

Right! I'm finally there. Sorry it took me so long - this week was just ... insane.

[Groin Redbeard]

Wow, when sun goes down, things get active in the Downs.:) I'm going to have to catch up on some of y'all's posts.


Kath- Nisa might have a crush on Hepti, would that be fine. *smiley*

What was I saying here? I just found remembered that I said this, I must have confused Hepti with your Svori character, Kath. That's really embarrassing, I have to read posts more carefully next time, sorry!:o

When I posted, I had no realized that Tror would be second in command, after Balin, and therefore now Lord of Moria. If you think it appropriate, I can edit my post and have it reflect that position with how Kenan addresses him.
I don't think that Tror has realized that this is so. Balin has only been dead for so short a time and he would most likely snap at anyone who called him lord before Balin was properly buried. Leave things the way they are, Folwren, I'm sure it's fine.:)

I'll get a post up tonight for Tror and Nisa. Since Kath has already posted (yeah!) is it alright if we announce the death of Balin?

[Kath]

Haha oops Groin! Well Nisa can like Svori maybe?

Yep, yep I'm fine for you to go ahead and bring Balin in now. :)

[Thinlómien]

Haha oops Groin! Well Nisa can like Svori maybe?Isn't his name Svior, not Svori? ;):D

And it is fine by me too to bring Balin in now. :)

[Kath]

Oh no! I wrote it as Svior the first time and went and changed it in my post - fool. I'll go back and edit it later. It is Svior.

[Groin Redbeard]

I've got my post up, Balin's death is now known to the colony. I tried to make the post proper, fitting to what a soldier might say.

Great post for Onli, Legate.:) Who was that other character you wrote for? I couldn't find the person on your character list.

[piosenniel]

I've clarified that, Groin. Vriti is a ferret - the pet of Onli.

~*~ Pio

[Groin Redbeard]

Thanks Pio, I'll remember that.:)

Nice post Boro, I like the way that you filled in Ori's reactions, they seem very typical for a dwarf in those circumstances.:) Should I wait for you to write about Gror finding Tror?

[Arry]

Groin

I'm a long time fan of Star Trek. I got a chuckle out of reading this in your post (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=576449&postcount=35):

The needs of many out weigh the needs of a few, or of one

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982) -

Spock: "... logic clearly dictates that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few".
Kirk: "Or the one".

Love it!!

http://barzilai.org/cr/icons/trek-hand.gif

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

Lilly

I posted the initial reaction of the twins and Vitr re: Lord Balin's death

Ball in your court again! :)

http://www.oz-designs.com/oz-designs/images/player_small.jpg

[Lilly]

Great post, Arry!

I think I'll wait 'til more of the Dwarves have said their farewells to Lord Balin and are beginning to disperse a bit from the Chamber before I pick up with what happens when Lys and the twins get home.

[Groin Redbeard]

Groin

I'm a long time fan of Star Trek. I got a chuckle out of reading this in your post (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showpost.php?p=576449&postcount=35):

The needs of many out weigh the needs of a few, or of one

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982) -

Spock: "... logic clearly dictates that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few".
Kirk: "Or the one".

Love it!!

http://barzilai.org/cr/icons/trek-hand.gifThanks Arry, I'm glad someone recognized where all that was from.:)

Everything is coming along splendidly! :D I probably won't post for Tror until Gror finds him, Nali and Nisa will be next (Tror will be standing next to Balin's body for future references).

[Arry]

Everyone/Anyone

Vitr will be standing about in the chamber where where Lord Balin lies for a while - please feel free to come up to him and open a conversation with him.

-- Arry

[Folwren]

Arry, I went ahead and had Kenan ask him something.

Kitanna, I don't know what you were planning on putting into your save. Very hopefully, I have not ruined anything for you. I haven't done anything drastic.

-- Foley

[Kitanna]

Kitanna, I don't know what you were planning on putting into your save. Very hopefully, I have not ruined anything for you. I haven't done anything drastic.

-- Foley
No, I checked out your post and it in no way ruins what I was going to put in.

[Thinlómien]

Great job, people. :)

I'll try to post for Vigdis soon, but I'm afraid "soon" means Wednesday...

[Boromir88]

Groin, I will be pretty busy the rest of the week, so if you'd like to keep things moving along, you can write in Gror informing Tror. If it wouldn't be a bother to you. :)

[Groin Redbeard]

All done Boro, although I think I rushed it and made things move along faster than needed. What do you think? Also, how is your character? Let me know if I wrote something wrong, or if you want to write for him instead.:)

Ilya, Nisa has approached Adela. She thinks Adela looks sick, but this could also be from what Nisa is feeling, you decide.:D

[Thinlómien]

I made a save because I doubt I can get anything done as soon as I'd like to. I'm pretty clear on what I'm going to write for Vigdis, but I have to negotiate with Legate before I can write for Ori (obviously, I need to know when Óin's coming back).

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

I really couldn't post anything lately, and I am afraid that if I don't post by today or tomorrow, then I won't post again until the start of next week. But I hoped that there is still time for all the Dwarves to pay their respect to Balin or whatever. We are probably going to discuss this with Lommy yet, but my general idea was that Óin will come just with the Orc army at his heels. And I would think the others are not going to just sit there and wait anyway (after all, they don't know, Óin may be dead as well).

[Ilya]

Groin, that's fine. I don't think Adela would admit it, though.

Will try to post something by the end of the day, but no promises, alas.

[Thinlómien]

I've edited my save into a post for Ori. I will write for Vigdis tomorrow.

Just a quick question (or two, actually, no, three :D) for you, Groin - if the council is to be held at the East Gate, does that mean that they're going to hold it outside, where Ori and the door guards are now? :confused: Also, Gror's supposed to take part in it, isn't he? And lastly, is that what you're going to write about next? Because, I have an idea (just a small one, though) how Ori would greet Tror and I'd like to write it...

[Groin Redbeard]

Nice fill, Kitanna!:) I'm looking forward to see how everyone else fills in their saves.

Okay, question and answering time.


if the council is to be held at the East Gate, does that mean that they're going to hold it outside, where Ori and the door guards are now? Yes, the guards will be dismissed to the inner chamber so that the dwarves can get a look at the ground that they will be fighting on. I think that this is what a soldier would do, what do you think?:)

Also, Gror's supposed to take part in it, isn't he? Yes, Gror has only told Tror very little, and Gror will need to give a full accounting to him and the other dwarves gathered there. I was hoping that Boro could do this, that's why I didn't make him say to much to Tror in my post.

And lastly, is that what you're going to write about next? Because, I have an idea (just a small one, though) how Ori would greet Tror and I'd like to write it...I'll probably stall a little while for Boro to get done with whatever is so hectic in RL.;) I'll notify you in a days advance if that's what you want. Were you thinking about writing Ori's greeting after Tror has arrived or would you be the one introducing Tror coming out of Khazad-dum? Either one is perfectly alright by me if it makes you happy.

[Thinlómien]

I'll probably stall a little while for Boro to get done with whatever is so hectic in RL.;) I'll notify you in a days advance if that's what you want. Were you thinking about writing Ori's greeting after Tror has arrived or would you be the one introducing Tror coming out of Khazad-dum? Either one is perfectly alright by me if it makes you happy.Ooh, Groin, you gave me a magnificient idea...!!! :D Well, it will suffice if I say that what I had in mind is what he would say to Trór immediately when he sees him and now I just got an idea for an addition...

I think that all in all, your plans make sense. I just wanted to be sure. :)

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

All right, so, for me, it's like I said - I will fill the saves either tomorrow (at least partially) or by the beginning of the next week; and there's probably nothing in which Onli or Óin would interfere with the others (Óin is going to come right before the army, and I would like to write one post about it there before it happens, and I presume things won't go that fast so that the Orcs would be to come before next Monday? ( ;) ). Because, I think anyway, people would like to post something for their characters, if somebody hadn't already, and perhaps something more where they could portray their characters or interact with others just a little bit.

In either case, we'll see - the main thing is what I said at the beginning, and I will try to fill my save. Groin, if I am not around to post, feel free to handle Lóni together with Náli, they are brothers after all - and thanks for doing it anyway, good job. (As soon as this week ends, it will be hopefully a lot better with me posting.)

[Himaran]

Lovely writing everyone!

Just wanted to note that I have filled in my save for post # 37 near the bottom of the first game thread page.

- Him

[Groin Redbeard]

Ooh, Groin, you gave me a magnificient idea...!!! :D Well, it will suffice if I say that what I had in mind is what he would say to Trór immediately when he sees him and now I just got an idea for an addition...
Goody, this gives me something to look forward to.:D

I've just put up a post for Loni and Nali. Nali is talking to Folwren's character and Durelin's will soon be called into play. I thought that a little more interaction would be nice, so I added Korin to the council's members.:) Legate, let me know if I have overstepped my bounds with Loni, I do not know if the proposal he made would be in accordance with his character.

[Thinlómien]

Groin, when would you like me to write for Ori?

I'm afraid I won't have time to write for Vigdis today as I can't be making noise with typing much longer tonight and I have history homework to finish... but I will try to find time to write something for her tomorrow and if not then, I should have at least a little time on Friday...

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Legate, let me know if I have overstepped my bounds with Loni, I do not know if the proposal he made would be in accordance with his character.

Hmm, actually, yes - I don't think Lóni would be proposing any of these. Maybe if you think Náli could do this, you could merely change the roles in the dialogue (of course the "attitudes of his brother" comment would have to be altered). Because I don't really think Lóni would be the active one in this. The best will be really just switcing the names in the dialogue.

[Thinlómien]

By the way, both Vigdis and Ori are so much going to love that wailing of the women and the special means to stall it... ;) :rolleyes: :D

[Folwren]

AHA! I am FINALLY getting into this character! He is beginning to fit what I had originally imagined.

Okay, folks, I've posted again. Not that I needed to blare a trumpet or anything. Kitanna, I have joined the grandchildren and grandfather, and may now wait your response.

Groin, I have answered Nali, but sent him off again. Kenan will soon be at your convenience. I think, though am not sure, that there will be some choice words spoken at this said council. Things may be...eh...interesting, shall we say? ;)

I am looking forward to it.

And, Arry I would have had more discussion with your character (I wanted to let you post again after Kenan got so heated), but since Groin had posted with Nali coming up, I didn't feel I could keep him waiting. However, if you think it likely (as I did) that Vitr would say something in response to Kenan's outburst of feeling, you can write something and PM it to me (or something) and I can edit it into my post. Whatever you want to do. I did not want to venture writing for your character. :)

-- Folwren

[Kitanna]

Okay, folks, I've posted again. Not that I needed to blare a trumpet or anything. Kitanna, I have joined the grandchildren and grandfather, and may now wait your response.

I've put up a save and hopefully will respond soon. Hopefully it will only take me a day or two to fill the save.

[Arry]

And, Arry I would have had more discussion with your character (I wanted to let you post again after Kenan got so heated), but since Groin had posted with Nali coming up, I didn't feel I could keep him waiting. However, if you think it likely (as I did) that Vitr would say something in response to Kenan's outburst of feeling, you can write something and PM it to me (or something) and I can edit it into my post. Whatever you want to do. I did not want to venture writing for your character. :)

I think I'll have Vitr head back to his family. Kenan has certainly given him something to think about - I think Vitr would not have questioned Balin's decision to go out alone, but now here is an elder Dwarf voicing the opinion that that was essentially an ill-thought move.

We'll see what I can come up with.

& thanks :) - about the 'not venturing'.

-- Arry

[Groin Redbeard]

Groin, when would you like me to write for Ori? It's near the end of the week right now, so today I'll have Tror ask Frar and Nali fetch Korin. When Gwathagor and Durelin respond they can bring the characters to the Eastern-Gate. I'll make sure that we get there as swiftly as possible.;)

Hmm, actually, yes - I don't think Lóni would be proposing any of these. Maybe if you think Náli could do this, you could merely change the roles in the dialogue (of course the "attitudes of his brother" comment would have to be altered). Because I don't really think Lóni would be the active one in this. The best will be really just switcing the names in the dialogue. No problem, I've edited the posts and sent Loni off to the gate.:) I hope that was alright, unless you have something for Loni to say to anyone in the great hall.:confused:

[Thinlómien]

It's near the end of the week right now, so today I'll have Tror ask Frar and Nali fetch Korin. When Gwathagor and Durelin respond they can bring the characters to the Eastern-Gate. I'll make sure that we get there as swiftly as possible.;)Alright, but I won't be able to write anything during the weekend, except maybe Sunday evening... :)

I was planning to write for Vigdis today but work exhausted me and writing Christmas cards took more time than I thought it would... I'll write for her tomorrow, and that's a promise I will keep. ;)

[Boromir88]

I'm good to go again, hopefully I didn't leave you all having to stall too long. Nasty little court case that we had no business being at. The deputy who pulled over one of our drivers even said he wasn't sure what the law said but gave him a ticket anyway. :rolleyes:

All done Boro, although I think I rushed it and made things move along faster than needed. What do you think? Also, how is your character? Let me know if I wrote something wrong, or if you want to write for him instead.~Groin
Post is great, it works nicely with Gror. :)

I think it might be better if Oin informed everyone about the orcs...I mean Gror just knew there were a lot of them, that is if you want a detailed account from someone. Now, Gror can of course state his business for being in Moria in more depth, and perhaps (unintentionally of course :p) give the dwarves false hope that their fellows from Erebor will be coming?

[Durelin]

Groin - I left it open in my post whether or not Nali has left Korin and Kor. I think right now the siblings are perfectly capable of carrying on a conversation between themselves while Nali's still trying to talk to them. So up to you whether or not Nali has more to say.

[Thinlómien]

I didn't mean to write a novel, but... :o

I think it might be better if Oin informed everyone about the orcs...I mean Gror just knew there were a lot of them, that is if you want a detailed account from someone. Now, Gror can of course state his business for being in Moria in more depth, and perhaps (unintentionally of course :p) give the dwarves false hope that their fellows from Erebor will be coming?Yes, but Gror will obviously be asked about it because no one knows when Óin will return...

And really, everybody, I tell you, I love this RPG. :D

[Groin Redbeard]

I think it might be better if Oin informed everyone about the orcs...I mean Gror just knew there were a lot of them, that is if you want a detailed account from someone. Now, Gror can of course state his business for being in Moria in more depth, and perhaps (unintentionally of course :p) give the dwarves false hope that their fellows from Erebor will be coming?I second what Lommy has said, also, Legate wants Oin brought to Khazad-dum with the orcs nipping at his heels. The confusion and lack of information won't be an odd or an unwelcome thing, it is usually how battles are planned, plus it makes for some interesting writing.;) Personally I like it better if Gror explains everything, that way I can use a subplot that I have been waiting to use with Oin and Tror.:D

Durelin, I'll have Nali stay and listen to Korin and Kor's conversation. He'll probably want to make sure that his idea gets to the council as soon as possible.

[Gwathagor]

Hey Groin, "whilst" is actually an archaic form of "while" rather than "will." :)

[Groin Redbeard]

Hey Groin, "whilst" is actually an archaic form of "while" rather than "will." :)Awe, and I was having so much fun using those old words.:(

Just so you know, Gwath (you might have already seen this, but just as a reminder...), Tror has encountered Frar in the hall leading to the bridge of Khazad-dum. I hope that it was alright that I made that short little confrontation between the two, I remembered what you said about Frar beginning to devise a plan so I thought that I would use that in my post.:) Let me know what you think.

[Lilly]

Save filled! Lys and twins are safe at home.

The door is barred, though, so Vitr will have to knock, Arry!

:)

[Arry]

Looks good, Lilly. :)

Will try to get a post up sometime to day!!

-- Arry

[Groin Redbeard]

So far we have Loni, Ori, and Gror ready for the council; and we are still waiting on Kenan, Tror, Frar, Nali, and Kori. Kenan comes in his own good time, I just need a response from Durelin and Gwathagor to get the council going, so whenever you two get the chance could you please post?:D I am rather anxious to get the council started (partly because I want to see what Lommy has planned), sorry if I'm pushing y'all around too much.

I'm loving these saved posts, can't wait to see them all filling up!:)

[Boromir88]

Yes, and I'll be ready to have Gror give his limited information whenever we're ready. :p

[Folwren]

So far we have Loni, Ori, and Gror ready for the council; and we are still waiting on Kenan, Tror, Frar, Nali, and Kori. Kenan comes in his own good time, I just need a response from Durelin and Gwathagor to get the council going, so whenever you two get the chance could you please post?:D I am rather anxious to get the council started (partly because I want to see what Lommy has planned), sorry if I'm pushing y'all around too much.

I'm loving these saved posts, can't wait to see them all filling up!:)

I'm sorry, I hope I don't end up holding up the council. I'm waiting on Kitanna to fill her save. I imagine Kenan will be able to join the gathering just as soon as he has talked with his grandkids a little.

-- Foley

[Thinlómien]

(partly because I want to see what Lommy has planned)Better stop being so excited about that, it's nothing special, just a few lines! :eek::D

[Groin Redbeard]

Great posts everyone, the story is wonderful so far!

Better stop being so excited about that, it's nothing special, just a few lines! What? I love your writing not matter how small the plot!:D

Durelin, nice job with Korin. It really cracked me up when she sloshed her beer all over Nali's boots, great stuff!:D

[Kitanna]

I'm sorry, I hope I don't end up holding up the council. I'm waiting on Kitanna to fill her save. I imagine Kenan will be able to join the gathering just as soon as he has talked with his grandkids a little.

-- Foley
Ugh, it's finals week and I've lost the time to fill my save. I'm going to try to fill it tomorrow, if not then I'll fill it after I take my last test on Thursday. If that's a problem I can just delete my save and put up a post when I actually have the time to fill it.

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Ugh, it's finals week and I've lost the time to fill my save. I'm going to try to fill it tomorrow, if not then I'll fill it after I take my last test on Thursday. If that's a problem I can just delete my save and put up a post when I actually have the time to fill it.

Yes, well, you are not the only one. :rolleyes: But at least I hope nobody relies on my save for now. As soon as the pre-Christmas busi-ness in school ends, I will be able to post normally again. That means, on Friday you can expect me finally posting all I wanted. I promise I will do it then at last, but there's been really no time to do anything now.

Just one checking thing - Groin, Lommy, especially you two - do you have any more concrete idea how many Orcs approaching are we talking here? At least this party which Óin could see now.

[Folwren]

Ugh, it's finals week and I've lost the time to fill my save. I'm going to try to fill it tomorrow, if not then I'll fill it after I take my last test on Thursday. If that's a problem I can just delete my save and put up a post when I actually have the time to fill it.

No, don't delete the save, because it doesn't make any difference on WHERE in the thread your post is - Kenan is going to wait for an answer before going off to the council.

But don't fret! I understand entirely. I've got finals this week, too, and haven't been able to write much as a consequence. We can wait until Thursday or whenever for your save to be filled. :)

Good luck on your tests.

-- Foley

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

File saved. Errr, save filled. :) Now Óin may encounter yet something before he comes home, but at least I have time to focus also on the others, Onli (when he finishes what he is doing now) and also Lóni. Well, fine. Let's see how this goes :)

[Groin Redbeard]

Hurrah! I've been keeping my eye on that post in hopes that it would be filled soon and I am glad to say that I was not disappointed. Well done, Legate.:)

Just one checking thing - Groin, Lommy, especially you two - do you have any more concrete idea how many Orcs approaching are we talking here? At least this party which Óin could see now. I don't think that Lommy and I have discussed this (and if we have, Lommy please refresh my memory:)) but it would have to be a considerable amount seeing that the orcs don't know if the colonists have had any reinforcements from Erebor and also if they mean to storm the halls it would have to be a huge arm. I might say that it is as large as 5,000 strong. Does this sound good to you?

I will get a post up for Nali today and bring Korin, and possibly Kor, to the council. Gwathagor, I'm ready to begin the council after I post so if you want to get a response up for Frar that would be great! ;)

[Thinlómien]

I don't think that Lommy and I have discussed this (and if we have, Lommy please refresh my memory:)) but it would have to be a considerable amount seeing that the orcs don't know if the colonists have had any reinforcements from Erebor and also if they mean to storm the halls it would have to be a huge arm. I might say that it is as large as 5,000 strong. Does this sound good to you?I suck with numbers, so whatever you say is fine by me. :D (And no, we didn't discuss it earlier. :))

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Well, 5000 is quite a lot. It is half of what attacked Helm's Deep. Théoden came with 6000 riders to Pelennor. If this is going to be 5000, that would have to be everything that really came to Moria. I would imagine that the Orcs who later were in Moria did not come all at once. But okay, it could be several thousand, possibly. Or does anyone else have anything to say to that?

[Lilly]

Perhaps I missed it, but - how many Dwarves are we thinking there are in Khazad-dum at present? And what would be the breakdown into #'s of men, women, children, do you think?

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

That is actually a good question. To the latter, certainly there will be far, far, far more men than women and children, if only because there were always too few women among Dwarves. I think it may be even something like 70% (or even 80?) of men, and some really small number of children (there should be even less of them than women - and far less, because for the time of the existence of the colony there hardly were more than a few born. If I say five children born there, then I am highly, highly overdoing it. And I don't think many parents with children would choose to venture into these uncertain, though of course legendary areas).

And the number of the Dwarves really should not be very big. We are certainly talking less than thousands here. But I am not really good in counting things like this.

[Lilly]

Also - is it a foregone conclusion that every one of the Dwarves in K-d dies? Any wiggle room there?

[Kitanna]

I filled in my save, finally. It's just a brief conversation between Kénan and Kéni.

[Thinlómien]

Groin had an idea bout the numbers but as I'm bad with numbers I already forgot it. :rolleyes: It really doesn't matter much to me...

Also - is it a foregone conclusion that every one of the Dwarves in K-d dies? Any wiggle room there?Well, as the Fellowship were apparently the first ones to find about the fate of the colony, I'd say no. However, that is not 100% definite - I have a few ideas and if they work out fine there might be a little wiggle room... We'll see. :)

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Also - is it a foregone conclusion that every one of the Dwarves in K-d dies? Any wiggle room there?

Well, as the Fellowship were apparently the first ones to find about the fate of the colony, I'd say no. However, that is not 100% definite - I have a few ideas and if they work out fine there might be a little wiggle room... We'll see. :)

Well, I believe the main problem would be that there are many years passing between Balin's death and the Fellowship's coming, and nobody learns about the fate of the colony until the Fellowship passes through there. Of course it would be possible to work out something, but certainly you cannot count on anybody escaping or anything like that.

[Groin Redbeard]

Perhaps I missed it, but - how many Dwarves are we thinking there are in Khazad-dum at present? And what would be the breakdown into #'s of men, women, children, do you think?I have read somewhere that the usual ratio for men to women with Dwarfs are 3/1, and the same with children. I don't know about y'all but I would say that that ratio would be greater in favor of the men in Moria, especially since it was considered a dangerous place. I think that the ratio would be 5/1 in this case, with almost no kids, the twins and grandchildren are probably some of the few that the dwarves brought with them. What I'm saying isn't set in stone, I'm just thinking out-loud here.;)

Also - is it a foregone conclusion that every one of the Dwarves in K-d dies? Any wiggle room there?No wiggle room! Everyone must die!:D Daaark RPG here!

If we were to use this idea the only time that I think it probable is when the Dwarves try to exit the Hollin Gate and a few get past the Watcher in all the confusion. Although, this would mean that those survivors could not get in-touch with any civilization in the nearly sixty years that elapse between the fall of Balin and the coming of the Fellowship. If they were to come in contact with anyone I am sure that they couldn't help but spill the beans on the whole matter. Not to say that we couldn't do this, just thinking out-loud again.:cool:

[Folwren]

Great. I'll get Kenan moving within the next day or two and get him going towards the council.

-- Foley

[Ilya]

Finals: 0, Me: 1. Now, if only the Saints had a similar record...

Finally filled in my save and hopefully I'll have the chance to catch up on everybody's posts tonight and tomorrow. :)

[Arry]

Nice post, Lilly! I'll try to continue the conversation from Vitr's side sometime later today.

"Wiggle room" - what might you be cooking up that you need it for? :)

-----

Great posts, everyone! Am very much enjoying writing in and reading along on this game!!

[Arry]

Lilly

What a bomb to drop on poor Vitr! :eek:

I'll see what I can come up with for the sure-to-be duty-torn Dwarf.

-- Arry :)

[Groin Redbeard]

I have PMed Gwathagor, Folwren, so Frar and Tror will make it to the council soon. They'll probably begin the discussion as soon as they arrive, just go ahead and get Kenan to the council whenever, it might actually be fun if he showed up late.:)


What a bomb to drop on poor Vitr! :eek:

I'll see what I can come up with for the sure-to-be duty-torn Dwarf.

Indeed, I wonder if the Dwarves have the draft instituted.:rolleyes:

[Gwathagor]

Tror and Frar are on their way to the council. If you'd like them actually in the chamber itself, I can arrange that.

[Groin Redbeard]

Tror and Frar are on their way to the council. If you'd like them actually in the chamber itself, I can arrange that.

That was perfect Gwath, excellent bit of writing!:D I love the way you have them talking like old friends! I'll go ahead and write something for Tror tomorrow that will bring him and Frar to the East-Gate, but first I'll put something up for Nisa. Thanks again Gwathagor.:)

[Gwathagor]

That was perfect Gwath, excellent bit of writing!:D I love the way you have them talking like old friends!

War does that to people.

[Groin Redbeard]

I've edited my post from yesterday for Tror. The council will begin soon, right after Lommy shows us what her small little plan was. Even if it is a sentence I would still be excited!:D

[Kitanna]

I put up a save that I'll fill in tomorrow. Then I'll be away from computer access for at least a week and a half, but probably more.

[Folwren]

I've edited my post from yesterday for Tror. The council will begin soon, right after Lommy shows us what her small little plan was. Even if it is a sentence I would still be excited!:D

The council should be very interesting. Have I said that before? I hope we can start it soon.

[Thinlómien]

Mmmm, sorry, Christmas has kept me busy. I will post today. :D But after that, I feel there might be another week of not participating very much... and after that, I should really be able to concentrate on this again. :)

[Legate of Amon Lanc]

Mmmm, sorry, Christmas has kept me busy. I will post today. But after that, I feel there might be another week of not participating very much... and after that, I should really be able to concentrate on this again.

Seconded :) I am not sure if I will be able to post today, but if I can, I will... but I doubt as I am quite busy even now... But I will try to do my best, and also in the future (although even in the week after the 5th I could be quite busy with finishing some things for the end of semester at school, but perhaps some RPGing will refresh me a bit in course of that :) ).

[Thinlómien]

There you have it, Groin, nothing special. :D Now you may carry on and Trór may start the council...