The Lingering Darkness Planning/Discussion Thread

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Well, Nerindel, it looks like we were both working on the situation at the same time, I am sorry if the posts overlap a bit. smilies/tongue.gif Went to post and there was Dulrain! Glad to see him.

[Nerindel]

no problem Hilde, It's always good to get the prospective of other characters in such situations smilies/biggrin.gif

Hey Snowdog, glad your enjoying our little story. smilies/wink.gif

[Ealasaide]

Hey, Snowdog! Glad to see you are still following along with us! smilies/biggrin.gif

Imladris - I am going to wrap up the encounter between Kaldir and Dulrain in my next post so that Dulrain can move on and find Maethor.

Great posts, everybody!

[Nerindel]

Elora, Toby is ready to be picked up by Naiore whenever your ready. smilies/eek.gif

Hilde hope Rauthain doesn't miss his pouch to much smilies/evil.gif

[Elora]

Just thought I'd say, great posts everyone! smilies/biggrin.gif

[piosenniel]

. . . and with a smile in her direction he turned back to meet his fate.

Ack! You've left me hanging! smilies/eek.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Nerindel – We’ve done it again, I went to post Rauthain this morning before leaving for work and there was Toby just minutes before! Too funny, I did a rush edit at lunch to make it work, before posting. Luckily we were heading in the same direction. smilies/biggrin.gif

Haven't caught up with the other posts yet.

[ October 23, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Nerindel]

Pio hehehe! you like that then smilies/evil.gif but I'm sure Elora and Everdawn won't keep you waiting long. smilies/wink.gif

Hildelol, yes I saw you come in just as I was leaving, I'm glad it didn't interfere with your post to much. smilies/smile.gif

Ealasaide Dúlrain has left your characters with a parting gift. "Use it wisely," (sorry couldn't resist) smilies/biggrin.gif

Imladris Dúlrain has now found Maethor and roused him from his forced slumber. smilies/wink.gif


Elora/Everdawn Tallas has had his fun and is now ready to face his fate at the hands of Barrold and Anavill. smilies/eek.gif

Well I think thats everyone.

I must be crazy Five characters at once!!! but honestly I'm loving it. smilies/tongue.gif just be sure to let me know if I'm slipping with any of them.

[Ealasaide]

Nerindel - Aha! That's excellent..I expect we will be hearing the call of that whistle before the end of this adventure... but from whom and why..that remains to be seen! smilies/wink.gif

[Elora]

Well, I could let it dangle for a little while longer.... smilies/wink.gif

[piosenniel]

Hilde

Your post is moved. smilies/smile.gif

Good-night! smilies/wink.gif

~*~ Pio

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Pio - I think you must have been up late waiting for Elora to post on Toby's fate! (I wonder if Rauthain will get his money back? Hmm...) smilies/wink.gif

[Imladris]

I edited my Maethor post...forgot a serious part of his character when I wrote him. That's what I get for crafting it near midnight last night. Was it okay having them go to the inn?

[Everdawn]

Dont feel bad for forgetting Imladris, at least you oculd post. What i mean by that was I am so sorry for the lack of creativity in my last post and becuase i havnt posted in the past few days, as i had two assignments i left till the last minute.. (i dont recommend this at all! smilies/eek.gif )Anyway, that basically drained me of what writing ability my mind had to spare!

BTW- Ha! that Tallas post was good, nice how you mentioned Avanill's father, i am having so much fun figuring how Avanill will react. smilies/wink.gif

[Nerindel]

Glad you liked it, Everdawn smilies/wink.gif

Tallas has had many an adventure in his long years and met many good and interesting people, he is skilled in many ways and keeps merticulous records of all his adventures and thoughts, much information can be found in his books for those who knew what to look for. smilies/tongue.gif

[Ealasaide]

Hey, Nerindel... a quick question for you:

Was Dulrain among the Rangers at Raven Falls? I know he found Kaldir's sword and bloody cloak there, but I was unsure whether that was later or what. You probably covered this in Dulrain's bio, but I can't seem to find it. Actually, I'm hoping you can post Dulrain's bio again. please?

Hilde tells me that Rauthain was there and that, to her knowledge, Dulrain was not. I need to get my facts straight! Kaldir's a little foggy on the details, but he has a good excuse.... smilies/wink.gif

[Nerindel]

No, he was not at Raven falls but arrived with Amadur, were he learnt of the loss of his friend. He search relentlessly for his friends body never finding it only the blood soaked cloak and sword and only stopped his search when he was called to the aid of his chief, something he knew his friend would not wish him to abandon.

anyway here is Dúlrains Bio smilies/biggrin.gif

Name: Dúlrain

Age: 39

Race: Man (Dunedain)

Gender: Male

Weapons: Arthedain Broad sword, a jewel encrusted companion sword, given to him by a wealthy young woman in gratitude of his assistance when she and her companions were waylaid by bandits on the west road, he also carries a belt knife and a crude long bow, his dark green quiver hangs from his belt rather than his back. Dúlrain carries a second sword, which he wields only against orcs, it once belonged to a close friend who was killed by orcs at Raven Falls (or so he believes).

Appearance:[B] Dúlrain is tall, lean and muscular like most of his kin, his hair is raven black and sits to his shoulders, He is darkly tanned and his eyes are a soft, kind, gentle grey. Dúlrain is lucky enough not to be marred with many battle scars infact the only prominent one is a scar left from an arrow wound to his left shoulder.

Like most of his brethren he clads himself in browns and greens of the forest, His dark Brown boots and cloak are well worn and weather beaten from his many travels.

[B]Personality/Strength/Weaknesses: Dúlrain is intelligent, strong willed, brave, confident and practical, he speaks his mind when he feels it is necessary and is generally of good humour though it is said by many that his humour has grown somewhat Sarcastic and dry over the years. To those he calls friends he is loyal and trustworthy. He is generally undaunted by the evils of the world believing that good always prevails. He is loyal to his king and is always completely at his disposal, he never doubted that Aragorn would take his rightful place as King of the reunited kingdoms.

Dúlrain's strengths are his expert swordsmanship, his speed and his agility, these being the main reason why he bares little scar of battle, he is proficient with bow and his eyes are keen. He prefers to leave tracking to others, but his speed and agility make him an excellent scout and he is always cautious, ready for what ever may be around the bend!

Dúlrain's handsome features and soft gentle eyes have always attracted women to him, giving him the reputation of being a bit of a ladies man, but he is not arrogant with it. Those who know him know that he has a weakness for women in distress and will willingly risk his life to protect the fairer sex.


History: Dúlrain was raised by his father in the wilds of the north, a dangerous and harsh upbringing that has made him the ranger he is today. Dúlrain has been fortunate the have rode and fought in the company of both Amandur and Hanasían.

Dúlrain was with Amandur when they met the remnants of the battle of Raven falls, when Elendir and his company had failed to return at the expected hour, Amandur and a few others, Dúlrain included where sent to see what had happened to them. Dúlrain was concerned as a close childhood friend rode in that company. On rendezvousing with Elendir's company he was dismayed to hear that his friend was lost, but although he search for his friends body he never found it, but he did find his kins sword and his blood soaked cloak torn and discarded by the river. The war ended his search and he rode to Gondor with the grey company.

After the war he joined Hanasían and aided the Rangers of Ithilien in their search for the criminals of the dark tower. He knows nothing of Kaldirs capture or his years of imprisonment in Mordor, nor that his friend yet lives and is following the path of a bounty hunter. Dúlrain believes Kaldir was killed by the orcs at Raven Falls and his body was lost to the river.

He was with Hanasian when they hunted the remnants of Sauron's elite followers, he had wavered and stayed his bow as the beautiful elven woman ran from the hut he and the archers of Ithilien had surrounded, it was only her cold callous laughter, which chilled him to the bones, that reminded him of the monster that she really was, the pain and torment she had caused to so many came flooding back and even as she used one of her companions as a shield he let loose his arrows angered at his hesitation.

For the past six months Dúlrain has watched the south downs for signs of Naiore the last of Saurons Revennor's and the most deadly and elusive of all his servants it is said and having seen and tracked her for many years he does not refute these claims. But while on guard he caught sight of one who had long been thought lost, but as he approached the figure disappeared, he searched long but found nothing, but when he decided to leave he saw the man again and was sure that it was Hanasíans father, but again as he approached he disappeared so he rode at once to find Hanaísan.

he found Hanasian just Southeast of Bree, and told him what he had seen, Hanasían then bid him to ride to Bree and join with Amandur and a few others of their brethren, telling him that the trail for Naiore had again grown warm.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

I would imagine Kaldir would feel abandoned by everyone not just the rangers at Raven Falls, though he may have a heavier axe to grind with them...

[Ealasaide]

Nerindel - thank you so much! smilies/biggrin.gif

Hilde - too true!

[Elora]

Everdawn, I didn't want to steal any of Avanill's thunder. Hence I left room in the account of their struggle with Tallas for Avanill's thoughts, actions, words and so forth.

Hope that's OK.

Nerindel, I kinda feel sorry for Toby. I'm sure he's not so nasty as to deserve being gangpressed into helping Naiore.

Once again, stirling work everyone! smilies/biggrin.gif

[piosenniel]

Muddy Bells!!!!!

Tallas is dead! . . . ack!!! smilies/frown.gif

[Elora]

Vanwe shall be sure to put his dagger to fine use. smilies/frown.gif

[Ealasaide]

I just posted with Benia and wanted to let everyone know that I am not springing any new surprises. When Kaldir says that Naiore stole something from him that he intends to get back, he is referring to intangibles such as his prior life and his dignity.

...and maybe his face! smilies/tongue.gif although it's not likely he'll be getting
that back.

[ October 26, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Elora]

Fantastic post, Ealasaide. smilies/biggrin.gif

Nerindel Did Avanill learn of an Elf called Menecin in nearby Imladris from Tallas, overhearing him whisper that to Vanwe?

Wanted to check if that happened before I go high-tailing it down yet another tangent. smilies/wink.gif smilies/tongue.gif

[Nerindel]

Nerindel, I kinda feel sorry for Toby. I'm sure he's not so nasty as to deserve being gangpressed into helping Naiore.


oh! I have plans for master longholes, you feel sorry for him now but you might not think that later as our story progresses smilies/evil.gif

Nerindel Did Avanill learn of an Elf called Menecin in nearby Imladris from Tallas, overhearing him whisper that to Vanwe?


No he learned nothing from Tallas, but knowledge resides in the house if one knows were to look smilies/tongue.gif

A point that may intrest Barrold, all Tallas journals are leather bound and gilded with mithril, but they are all written in the ancient script of the Noldor. smilies/wink.gif

RIP Tallas *sniff sniff*

(Irony) the knife Tallas gave to Vanwe, is Barrolds. smilies/tongue.gif

Wasn't sure if you missed that or not. smilies/wink.gif

[ October 27, 2003: Message edited by: Nerindel ]

[Elora]

Not at all! smilies/wink.gif

I was planning to put that little gem to good use. As for Tallas' journal, my thanks for that pointer. Should provide interesting reading for one Naiore Dannan, Noldorin Lady of the Swan, of Belfalas Nobility..... smilies/smile.gif

[Imladris]

Quick question: are Lespheria and the Rangers going to go back to the woods to see if they can pick up Vanwe's trail?

[Nerindel]

Yes! We will go back to the woods to follow Vanwe, Barrold and Anavill's trail, where Lésperia will discover that they are heading towards Tallas' place.

I would think as we approach the old mans house we would discover the their tracks leaving in a different direction.

Léspheria and Amandur would carry on to Tallas's leaving the others to follow Vanwe et all. smilies/wink.gif

This gives Kaldir et all, ample time to pick up the trail ahead of us. smilies/tongue.gif

[Nerindel]

Ok, everyone I've put a post up for Amandur, sorry if its a bit long, but it had to be done. smilies/wink.gif smilies/tongue.gif

I'm in the middle of composing a post for Léspheria, which should fill in the blanks in Amandur's posts, but it is late here and I need some sleep!! smilies/rolleyes.gif

But I have one question before I go, Hilde, Imladris How much do Rauthain and Maethor know about Kaldir, past and present? does either of them know that Benia and Gilly are his Prisoners?

ok I know thats two questions, but I'm really tired! smilies/tongue.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Nerindel, Rauthain knew Kaldir before he was taken captive, and grew to know Kaldir’s father after that event took place. He has only recently learned that Kaldir is truly alive, and has no knowledge of Benia & Gilly (though he did see a familiar seeming personage, from the back, with three horses near the Forsaken Inn).

Another couple of points I wanted to mention are that in my mind Rauthain can not read or write and is more or less like an enlisted man among officers in this group.

Hope you had a good rest. I know I'm could use some sleep and it's early yet!

[ November 04, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Imladris]

There are only a few things that Maethor knows about Kaldir: that he has turned bounty hunter and what Naiore did to him. He does not know about Benia and Gilly.

[Nerindel]

Thanks Hilde, Imladris that helps smilies/biggrin.gif

Ealasaide it looks like Dúlrain won't find out the truth about Benia till a bit later in our story. smilies/wink.gif

ok I'm really going to bed now, goodnight. smilies/tongue.gif

[Ealasaide]

Nerindel - okay! Sounds good. He can feel guilty a little longer! smilies/evil.gif

Everybody - I am working on the post in which Kaldir will find the cave & get back on Naiore's trail. I should have it up sometime tomorrow. It's half done now but I am so tired I can't type anymore tonight. Sorry! Goodnight!

[ October 30, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Nerindel, the two characters who could figure out that Kaldir has Benia, would be Lespheria and Hanasain. Could Hanasain have mentioned Benia's troubles to Dulrain?

[Nerindel]

Hilde,No, Hansian didn't mention it! he was too preoccupied by thoughts of his father smilies/rolleyes.gif imagine smilies/tongue.gif

Anyway my original plan was to have Léspheria and Amandur tell Dúlrain his mistake, but alas the oppertunity was missed, But no matter he will find out eventually.

Another thing Dúlrain, has no Idea that any of the rangers already know of Kaldir's survival least of all that they all know!! So he will be none to please to find out that his revelation is old news, especially with Amandur who he respects not only as a leader but a friend, it will come as a harsh blow that he found Kaldir and never told him.

One more thing, anyone who knows Kaldir personally should also be aware of Dúlrain. Where ever Kaldir went his friend was always found two steps behind, but never in his shadow. The only time they were parted was Ravenfalls hence Dúlrain's guilt.

Also another thing in my mind, Dúlrain once harboured bad feelings towards the Rangers that survived Ravenfalls holding them like himself partially reasonsible for Kaldir's fate, but after the war and his time riding with Hanasain these feelings left him, but I see them returning with his own guilt.

Hilde, its been what 15/16 years since Ravenfalls, so Dúlrain has not recognised Rauthain as one of the men who was with Kaldir at that time, But I'm sure when Rauthain talks about Kaldir he will remember and some of those bad feeling will resurface. smilies/mad.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

OOOooo the plot thickens! smilies/evil.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[Imladris]

Did I mess you up, Nerindel? Because if I did I am so sorry...I didn't know you had wanted to do something...

[Ealasaide]

Everybody - I've just posted with Kaldir. Sorry to say, they are still on the hill outside the cave. I hope to post with Benia later today & get them moving so that the Rangers can find the cave.
Sorry to be so pokey! It's just that Kaldir's post had gotten so long and I was still going...
It was time for a change of POV.

Hilde - Gilly can jump in anytime here, too. smilies/smile.gif

[Nerindel]

Did I mess you up, Nerindel? Because if I did I am so sorry...I didn't know you had wanted to do something...


No worries Imladris that is the nature of the game and I'm nothing if not adaptable. smilies/wink.gif


[EDIT] oooh! great post Ealasaide, I can't wait to see Benia's.

[ October 31, 2003: Message edited by: Nerindel ]

[Elora]

Fantastic work everyone! smilies/biggrin.gif

I'm having a ball reading along for the moment. smilies/smile.gif

I had planned to post next at nightfall, when Naiore and co had camped down for the night. There's a fair bit to happen in that... including Naiore's change of planned direction, plus a few more ideas that have been bubbling away in my mangled grey matter. smilies/evil.gif

I don't want to cut anybody else off. Please let me know when your characters are in place and the nightfall post can roll in. I am determined not to gazump anyone.

In fact, if someone else wants to mention the passing of time from day to evening in their posts, that would be great! smilies/biggrin.gif

I'll just follow that cue most happily.

[Nerindel]

Just a quick note to let everyone know that I have edited Léspheria's post to the end of Amandur's. Not that you would miss it of course, another long one am afraid. smilies/rolleyes.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Thanks For letting us know Nerindel. I rely too much on e-mail notification and such things don't show up on that radar screen! smilies/wink.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Imladris I hope that my post is Ok with you and doesn't mess anything up.

Nerindel Sorry it took a while, but Dulrain now has quite a bit to think about. From what I remember, he did not know that Kaldir had been captured.

[edit] Finally, read Lespheria's addition. Beautiful post!

Feel free to mention Rauthain come trotting back at any time.

[ November 01, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Imladris]

Very nice post, Hilde!

[Ealasaide]

Sorry I have been holding things up again. Work & family obligations have been walking all over my writing time again. I will have something up tonight that moves Kaldir & co. along.

Elora - please wait before changing the time frame!!! I need to get my group off of Bree Hill and out of Bree before nightfall.

[Ealasaide]

Oh. Well, having read the thread now, I see you didn't wait. I will have to edit mine in at the end of Kaldir's, I guess.

In that case, since I am not holding anyone up, I'll post mine tomorrow when I am not quite so tired & in a better position to write a decent post.

[ November 01, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Elora]

Yipes! Sorry Ealasaide.... I'll remove mine, save it and post it later so that it makes more sense.

I didn't see your note here until after I had finished crafting up the post.

Again, my apologies. smilies/redface.gif

[Everdawn]

I was thinking.. (shock horror!) about how Barrold and Avanill are supposed to have stolen several books form Tallas place. Since it was Avanill who raided the place, and seemign to be the more literary man, im guessing that he must have picked it up...

I really want to do something about this because i believe it could be really interesting. So i need some help... What exactly would the books contain? Im hoping this will be something exclusive to Avanill that he can keep in his mind for later or that it is details about the past of certain figures in society (or details that Tallas may have come across when two of the greatest Bandit threats of Middle Earth came to clashed with oneanother and one was killed.... (Avanill's father) ) Which would make Avanill more and more unsure about whether helping Naiore is the right thing or not...

Help!!! smilies/wink.gif

[Nerindel]

Everdawn unless your character can read ancient Noldorin the only words he would be able to read are maybe the names of his parents, that might not be translatable in to that ancient tongue?

The Tomes themselves are more to do with the Elves, Especially the relationship between, Naiore, Vanwe, Menecin, Valaindon (Léspheria's mother)and Léspheria, his and the council of Imladris belief that the Fates of all five are some how bound together or at least intertwined. And of course the revalation that Menecin is still alive and is under the protection of Imladris!

I did not realise when I wrote my post that only Avanill went inside, the destruction I described in my last post was more fitting with Barrold than with Avanill and I also thought that the Mithril bound tomes would catch his eye, as that metal is very rare and would fetch a fair price on the black market! Do I have to adjust my post or is it feasible for us to assume that Barrold entered the house after Avanill??? smilies/confused.gif

(For some strange reason I thought he had *shrugs*)

Everdawn just an after thought, not all Tallas' books were in ancient tongues,Texts relating to Avanill's parents would likely be in westron and in a more ordinary looking book, don't you think! smilies/biggrin.gif

[ November 02, 2003: Message edited by: Nerindel ]

[Elora]

Perfectly feasible to assume that Barrold entered after Tallas. He would have pilfered first and destroyed later...

As for the books, I had an idea.... brace yourselves.... hard hats on? smilies/tongue.gif

The tomes that Barrold took are in ancient Noldorin. He lifted them secretively, not trusting Avanill with such a prize, in the hopes of winning some points with Naiore.

However, I think it likely that Tallas had more than those books in his house. Avanill could have found other books that he took, recognising a different value...

Say, books on the history of herbology and local botany.... ancient receipes for plants and herbs.... Tallas' medicinal notes, so to speak.

For his trade, such tomes would be of great value, financial and otherwise.

Naiore' chief interest will be in the books lifted by Barrold. She is a student of lore, a philosopher of a grim bent, and she would immediately recognise their import.

Avanill could use his books to work to his favour. Maybe concocting a new potion of use. Naiore guards her secrets well and only ever purchased raw materials from Avanill's mother. If Avanill proved he had some alchemist knowledge, that would make him both more useful/potent as well as dangerous from Naiore's perspective.

How does that sound? smilies/smile.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Don't forget the Mithril books had a rather stubborn lock. smilies/wink.gif

I imagine that if Tallas keep notes in such rich volumes. Could he not have kept other notes in books, perhaps with gold work?

Ealasaide I do apologize, I feel as though I qued Elora with the reference to the sun! smilies/frown.gif

[ November 02, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Ealasaide]

Elora - thanks! I really appreciate it. I will have my post up there this afternoon... come fire or high water! smilies/biggrin.gif

Hilde - no problem! Thanks, everyone, for your patience.

[piosenniel]

Please assure me that when you are speaking of the books being written in Noldorin that you mean they are written in Quenyan, as opposed to the common Elvish tongue of this period which would be Sindarin.

From the Ardalambrion site:

Quenya or High-elven is the most prominent language of the Amanya branch of the Elvish language family. In Aman there were two dialects of Quenya, Vanyarin and Noldorin. For historical reasons, only the latter was used in Middle-earth.

Here is the entire article on Quenya:

QUENYA (http://www.uib.no/people/hnohf/quenya.htm)

[Elora]

Yes, I tend to use Noldorin and Quenyan interchangably when referring to language, myself.

I believe the tomes bound in mithril are written in Quenyan, using the Tengwar characters. My prediction is that Tallas will deliberately have chosen to use such a rareified language so as to minimise the risk of the information falling into the wrong hands. Of course, that fact that Naiore is herself Noldorin nobility who hails from ancient times means that she easily reads, writes and speaks Quenyan (her mother tongue) and so can understand the information recorded.

smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

My post is up! As far as my characters go, I am ready to move on into nighttime.

Hilde - did you have something you needed Rauthain to do before it is dark? You had mentioned his going to Bree Hill as well and having a look around.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Shwoa Ealasaide! What a post! smilies/eek.gif

It's OK for it to become night. Rauthain is going to keep what he saw to himself for now, I think. smilies/wink.gif

[Ealasaide]

Shwoa Ealasaide! What a post!

I hope you mean that in a good way! smilies/wink.gif

[Everdawn]

That is a really great idea Elora, ill work something up for it and PM you before I use it though...

[Elora]

Great! smilies/biggrin.gif

Look forward to seeing what you have in mind, Everdawn. smilies/smile.gif

Fantastic work, Easalsaide.

I'll put up the diatribe, erm, I mean the post for Naiore/Vanwe. It transitions from late afternoon to evening.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Yes Ealasaide, in the best possible way!

[Ealasaide]

Thanks, Hilde & Elora!

I just noticed, however, that I had misidentified the post as Kaldir's. I went back in this morning & corrected the heading to read "Benia". Oops!

[Imladris]

Greaty post, Nerindel! I have a question: does Rauthain know about Dulrain and Kaldir's deep friendship? I wasn't sure and was going to use it in my post, but decided it would be best not to...

[Nerindel]

Thanks Imaldris smilies/biggrin.gif and good question, I'm not sure about that one myself, I think not but I could be wrong, Hilde would be the best one to answer that question.

Certainly Dúlrain did not know of Rauthain before this mission, as to how Dúlrain and Rauthain never met at Raven Falls, Hilde has pmed me the answer to this discrepancy, before Dúlrain arrived to meet the survivors Rauthain had rode off to tell Kaldir's father the bad news of his son's death.

hope this info helps.

Hilde correct me if any of this isn't right!

Ealasaide fantastic post! I was literally holding my breath through the whole scene with the dagger. smilies/biggrin.gif

I am enjoying the reading as much as the writing of this tale, great posts everyone. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Imladris- Rauthain is just now starting to put this together in his mind. You made an excellent call. Hopefully his next post will explain more.

I agree that everyone has created a very gripping tale here. I find myself checking frequently for the next "installment"! smilies/biggrin.gif

[ November 04, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Ealasaide]

Just wanted to let everyone know that I will be away from my computer pretty much all day for the next three days, as I will be manning a vendor's booth at the annual American Indian Assoc Pow-Wow. I will be able to check the threads and PM's when I get up in the morning and when I get home at night. So... I won't be totally out of touch!

I hope to have posts up for Benia and Kaldir on Sunday, if at all possible.

[Elora]

Sounds fun, Ealasaide. Enjoy! smilies/smile.gif

I'm in and out this weekend, frantically organising things and people for a December o/s jaunt to the States that is fast approaching.

I'm waiting on word back from Everdawn before I do anything by way of a post, so hopefully my level of non-web activity will not be an issue. Fingers crossed. smilies/smile.gif


Have to say, superb writing Ealasaide, Nerindel, Hilde and of course Imladris. smilies/biggrin.gif

Always a pleasure to read the latest offerings from you guys. smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

Hi, gang! I'm back. Just posted with Benia. I should have one up for Kaldir this evening, too, or by tomorrow at the latest.

Also, I have to agree with Elora - everyone's writing has been superb. I can't wait to see what happens next! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Ealasaide]

Elora & Nerindel - I think I might have gotten confused... didn't Naiore go back into Chetwood?

I thought so, which is why I had Kaldir & Co go in that direction. If I have that wrong, then I need to do some editing... and so will Nerindel since she was responding to me. Kaldir is following Naiore's footprints, so he would not go into Chetwood if her tracks did not lead there.

I tried to look back over Elora's posts but now can't find any reference to Naiore's location. Help!

[Elora]

Naiore struck out from her concealed location near the northern gate of Bree.

She made her way through the westerly parts of Chetwood as she planned to skirt the Barrow Downs and enter through Buckland and it's forested cover.

Right now, she's encamped north west of Bree in the thinning Chetwood as the woods skirt up the hills west of Bree.

Hope that helps.

smilies/smile.gif

[Nerindel]

lol Elora,

I think Naiore is holding her map upside down again!

Chetwood surrounds the east side of Breehill, with the town of bree on its western side, smilies/tongue.gif

From what you have just told us I would guess that Naiore is southeast of Bree under the thinning eaves of the chetwood ready to strike southwest towards the Barrow-downs, does this sound right. smilies/wink.gif

The Rangers Dúlrain, Maethor and Rauthain are about a mile east of Combe and I would think that Kaldir and co would be somewere in between does this sound about right to everyone?

Bear in mind that this only puts us about a few hours apart from each other! smilies/eek.gif

[Ealasaide]

Well, it depends on which map you are using. In Fonstad's Atlas of Middle Earth, the map on page 74 shows Chetwood completely surrounding Bree, Combe, Staddle, & Archet. The western side of the woods do extend to the north, which would give Elora's scenario credence.

On the other hand, the map of Bree on page 125 shows Chetwood lying east of Bree, Combe and Staddle, but surrounding Archet. This would lend credence to Nerindel's scenario.

Going Southwest, however, would lead Naiore directly into the Barrow Downs. If her intention is to skirt them, as Elora said, and enter the Shire by way of Buckland, then she would need to be traveling north out of Bree.

It looks to me like Elora had her map straight. It just depends on which map you are looking at. So...which map are we going to go with?

[ November 12, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[piosenniel]

Those two maps show essentially the same orientation of Bree to Chetwood.

On page 75 of Fonstad, the small circle that denotes the town of Bree does lie just west of the forested area. Combe and Staddle are also just outside the bounds of the forest, being, like Bree on Bree-hill. Archet is the one town surrounded by the forest

[Elora]

Erm, I was using Fonstad's atlas but I can't say as I don't turn maps around when navigating either. smilies/tongue.gif

May I make a suggestion?

Rather than get bogged down in the differences of various maps, why don't we say that Naiore is in a lightly wooded area northwest of Bree that may or may not be Chetwood (according to the map you are using). smilies/biggrin.gif

How does that work for everyone? smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

Elora - Works for me! That way we don't have to get into a series of messy rewrites.

Thanks for the clarification, Pio. I guess I should put my glasses on before writing long treatises on small map details, eh? smilies/rolleyes.gif smilies/smile.gif

[Nerindel]

Elora - Works for me too smilies/biggrin.gif

[Elora]

smilies/biggrin.gif

OK, have decided to spice things up a bit with a Ravennor style interrogation.

Naiore's motivation: she's just discovered that Menecin is dead and suspects Vanwe of being in league with her father and her enemies to bring her mother in for capture.

Everdawn I thought this would give Avanill something interesting to watch. smilies/smile.gif

Nerindel I'll leave it up to you to decide if Naiore's interrogation can be sensed by Lespheria. Certainly Lespheria would be familiar with such interrogations from her own exposure to it through her mother. smilies/smile.gif

Ealasaide I don't know if Naiore's activity would somehow affect Kaldir too... nightmares or something? Just one of those random ideas that popped into my head just this instant. Up to you what you want to make of it. smilies/smile.gif

Naiore is unable to offer a more skilled example of her craft. She's in the field, surrounded by enemies and time is short. So, she's gotten straight into it.

Perhaps at a later time, when Naiore has some leisure up her sleeve, she can really show us what she can do. smilies/evil.gif

[Ealasaide]

Yikes! Poor Vanwe...

I'll have to think it over & see how or if it affects Kaldir. I had not really given it any thought as to how much he would be attuned to Naiore's actions. He did sense her presence in the woods at the Forsaken. Because he has been on the receiving end of so much of Naiore's attentions, it is possible that he might have that added edge of awareness.

Good idea! smilies/biggrin.gif

Oh...one last thing...
she's just discovered that Menecin is dead
I think Elora means Naiore's just discovered Menecin is NOT dead!

[ November 14, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Nerindel]

Elora *Shiver* truely a fascinatingly terrifying post! Léspheria will most certainly sense such a butal attack on the young elf, I'm in the midst of crafting a dream post for Léspheria and your new post has given me new possiblities.

I have actually been thinking on Naiore and Vanwe and the blood they share with Léspheria. In my bio and in previous posts I mentioned that Léspheria feels the pain of her mother and brother, but not her father! I was wondering if she would not also feel the pain of the rest of her family? I have been hesitant on this as it would make her quite vunrable, but it may help to strengthen the story between her and Amandur.

I would be grateful to hear what the rest of you think Especially Elora as it would involve her characters directly.

Thanks
~Nerindel

[ November 14, 2003: Message edited by: Nerindel ]

[Ealasaide]

Elora, I hope I got Naiore right. If you see anything in my post that you would prefer I change, please let me know. Thanks!

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

E-gads! Tonight is not a good night to go dancing in the moonlight, is it! smilies/wink.gif

Very good everyone!

Just wanted to add a disclaimer here. I don't want to create the impression that I see Rauthain and Naiore ending this story, quite the opposite. At this point, if any character plays a part in the end of The Ravennor I would say Kaldir, Lespheria or Vanwe would be good choices. I myself am rooting for a certain bounty hunter. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Ealasaide]

Thanks, Hilde! Kaldir would appreciate that. smilies/wink.gif

I know several people (including me) still have a post or two we want to put up before moving ahead to dawn, but looking ahead, I think that we should be moving in the direction of Rivendell very soon.

My question is this: do we want to document the entire journey from Bree to Rivendell with day to day detail? Or shall we sort of slide through the travel time and pick up the action again when Naiore gets into the close vicinity of Rivendell?

My concern is that we may get bogged down in the travel, since there will be very little interaction between the three groups until we reach Rivendell... unless someone has something planned!

Everyone, please let me know what you think.

[Imladris]

I personally think that we should skip the travel time, maybe have one person from each group post a short/long little thing that will describe it or something. That's me. Travelling is so boring no matter what form you're doing it in.

[Elora]

I reckon we speed through the travel too.

I'll need to halt Naiore and group prior to Imladris so as to set up their plan, which is to send Vanwe in to betray Imladris and give Naiore access.

Then there's the betrayal of Avanill and Barrold of Naiore too. That could happen at Imladris, as I don't think either one would care to tag along with Naiore when she flees south once she fails at Imladris.

There's been some talk of Kaldir, Lespheria, Benia, Naiore and co all bumping into each other around Imladris.... Vanwe being waylaid by one of the following parties on her way in to do her mother's bidding.


So there's lots that will be happening once Imladris nears one way or another. I think we should cut to the chase rather than dally with the miles between Imladris and the surrounds of Bree.

Just my opinion. smilies/smile.gif

I'll edit Naiore too, as she's just discovered that Menecin is Alive (doh smilies/redface.gif )

smilies/biggrin.gif

[Everdawn]

Then there's the betrayal of Avanill and Barrold of Naiore too

And ive been pondering this as well. I had some thoughts, Avanill well knows that he owes no alliegance to anyone, but himself.. it has always been, its what his mother taught him. He can be just as crafty.

If Naiore betrays them... Avanill could
1) Betray her back, revealing her plans.
2) Do nothing and go into hiding, (that is unless they are caught or surrounded.
3) damn.. i cant remember them all right now... anyway...

I have been thinking of ways that Avanill coudl proove his 'innocence' Avanill can twist the truth to make it suit him...

I had a menta image of him the other day saying to rangers about his charge of capturing Vanwe (hypothetical), "Well, Vanwe is Naiore's daughter, what makes you think she hasnt fallen in with her mother by now? The are like old friends, It is not I who is the villian here now." **evil laughter**

OK its sounds rushed i know.. But ive been playing around wiht ideas.. All i know is I dont want Avanill to die, i want him to escape somehow or something.. which is why i have been planning diffrent situations so that this might be possible.

Who knows, Avanill at the end may be able to lie thorugh his teeth.. I dont know... And after that i think im going mad..

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Moving quickly on to Rivendell sounds very good to me.

But I do have this question I need to answer first. Or rather Gilly does. Sorry for the delay. My computer was acting up and I lost what I was working on. I will try for this evening or tomorrow. smilies/frown.gif

[Nerindel]

Sorry everyone, I had planned to post for Amandur et all yesterday, but I had some surprise visitor's I will try to get the posts up when time allows. smilies/frown.gif

As to the journey to Rivendell, I think that some of the hunted being hunted should happen during the journey and not at Rivendell, I'm not suggesting we do a day by day account but as Imladris suggested each poster covering two or three days in one post.

Ealasaide if we are still going with the scenario you suggested? If so Dúlrain will need to hook up with Kaldir et all at some point, so that the relationships between the three can develop.

Also as soon as Léspheria realises Naiore's change of course she will make straight for Rivendell to warn her kin and prevent Naiore from passing, something I would think Naiore would anticipate? smilies/evil.gif.

[ November 17, 2003: Message edited by: Nerindel ]

[Ealasaide]

Nerindel - I've been wavering on that. I will send you a PM later today when I get the chance. If you get the chance, send me a PM with your thoughts, as well. Thanks!

Everyone - I was already leaning toward Imaldris' & Nerindel's suggestion that each of us write a transitional travel post that will carry that character (or group of characters) into the area of Rivendell. If a situation comes up in the transitional posts, we will have the flexibility to develop the situation.

When we get to that point, if you do not intend to write a travel post, just notify the rest of us on the Discussion Thread so we will know not to wait for you.

How does that sound?

In the meantime, we are still at night. Nerindel, Hilde, and I all have posts that need to be placed before moving into dawn. Unless anyone else speaks up, we can advance the time frame as soon as those posts are up.

[ November 17, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[piosenniel]

“Might as well jump in with both feet if I’m to drown,” she said. “I just realized that here I’ve been rattling on and I have not any idea which side you fought on during the War. Please tell me your sympathies didn’t lie with the Dark Lord, or I may have just as well slit my own throat and Benia’s too. Oh what a thought!”

Got to love Gilly! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Yes, I wonder if Benia heard that one! smilies/tongue.gif

[Nerindel]

ok, everyone I have finally found the time to put up Dúlrain's (Who I only remembered today needed a post smilies/eek.gif ) Amandur's and Lespheria's posts and am ready when you are to move foreward! Enjoy smilies/wink.gif

Imladris, Hilde I have put in my post that Amandur and Léspheria hope to catch up to the other rangers, but I have also suggested that the trail they are following is growing thin, therefore they will not catch up but overtake as they try to second guess Naiores new course, but don't worry they will eventually have to meet up. smilies/tongue.gif

Yes Hilde I have to agree with Pio I too loved that line. so Gilly smilies/biggrin.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Many thanks Pio & Nerindel! I can't what to see what Kaldir feels about her rambling! smilies/biggrin.gif

No unfinished business for Rauthain to tidy up before Imladris. So all's clear from his quarter.

[ November 18, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Ealasaide]

I have posted with Kaldir and am ready to move into morning.

Imladris, Everdawn, & Elora - do you need to post before we advance the time frame?

[Imladris]

Hmm...?? What's that, Elesaide? You want to know if Maethor needs a post? smilies/wink.gif Actually, no he doesn't...I think that if I did I'd end up babbling...

[Everdawn]

Imladris, Everdawn, & Elora - do you need to post before we advance the time frame?

I dont, but you'd better get the ok from Elora.


BTW... This is getting really good! .. im excited to see what happens next.

[Ealasaide]

Okay, then, I guess we are ready for morning!

Elora - since the rest of us are chasing Naiore, she would be the logical one to get us started. Also, if you have any unfinished business from the nighttime, please feel free to include it.

Let's roll! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Elora]

Ok, point taken. I'll get busy. Sorry for the delay. smilies/smile.gif smilies/redface.gif

I'm going to do a transitional post that will carry Naiore et all through to the immediate vicinity of Imladris... smilies/evil.gif

Nerindel, Naiore would expect Lespheria to attempt to warn Imladris and will make good use of her "helpers" on that score.

I am aware that in the surrounds of Rivendell a lot will be happening. Location of individuals will be a bit of an issue. I'll be more than happy to edit this post to solve any geographical problems, should they arrive.

Naiore, for her part, will be prepared for: Rangers desceding upon her in pursuit; Kaldir, whose troubled mind she will also pick up as he sets pursuit of his own; and, rising dissention within her own camp.

Everdawn, what I was thinking was that Avanill and Barrold would start to have grave doubts about the venture as soon as Naiore announces the change in plans. They were both sold on the idea of pillaging the Shire. A detour via Imladris is time consuming, risky and dubious and I figure neither man would like the idea much.

Therefore, Naiore will be on the watch also for trouble from her own group. Barrold, for his part, will sieze upon any opportunity to make a gain. If he thinks he stands to make more from turning Naiore in to the pursuing Rangers than siding with her in an assault on Rivendell, then he will not hesitate to do so.

In fact, I think that is the path Barrold will take. He'll attempt to wheedle a trade on Naiore, and Toby the thief for good measure, in return for a reward and his own survival. He's never claimed to be anything other than a scoundrel and coward. smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

Great post, Elora! I'm sure we will all be making use of that plume of smoke on the first morning from Tallas' burning books...

[Elora]

Thought that would come in handy. smilies/smile.gif

Also thought it was about time we heard from Menecin too.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Nice post Elora!

[Ealasaide]

Hey! I have a question:

Elora mentions Naiore sending Toby out to scout the terrain once her party is in the vicinity of Rivendell, following two weeks on the road.

Hilde mentions a long set of hobbit prints in the vicinity of the Ranger camp in Bree prior to the journey eastward.

Did I miss something or is this just a slight miss as far as continuity? Someone please clarify! Thanks!

Also, Elora, I am trying to plan an incident that happens in transit between Bree and Imaldris. Can you tell me in rough terms (using Fonstad's map) what route Naiore took? Or does it not matter?

If it doesn't matter, I'll just wing it. Please let me know! Thanks!

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

She chose to dispatch Toby, whose quiet Hobbit feet were virtually silent in the woods, to scout around. Toby had proved adept at such things and had marked the position of those who pursued... two groups.

That is what I was working with. I didn't not mean for the rangers to seem as though they were still in Bree. Maybe I should clarify it?

EDIT: Changed a line. Hope it makes it easier to understand.

[ November 23, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Imladris]

Just wanted to let you know that I will be gone from Wednesday through Sunday...

Cheers!

[Ealasaide]

Okay, Imladris, thanks for the advance notice! See you soon.

Thanks for the edit, Hilde. I guess I was being hasty & obtuse again. smilies/rolleyes.gif I think I'm clear with everything now.

Elora - never mind on the mapping business. I got impatient and went ahead and put Naiore on the most direct route across country. If you see anything I need to edit in my post when I get it up there(it's almost ready!) please let me know. I will be happy to edit. Thanks!

[ November 23, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Elora]

That's fine Ealasaide.

Sorry I couldn't get an answer to you earlier. Barrow Downs has been down all day until 10:15 pm my time, each and every time I tried to get on.

It makes no difference to any of my plans as to which route Naiore took, so I am happy to work with whatever has been set down. smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

That's great. Thanks, Elora! My post is now up on the thread, by the way.

[piosenniel]

Great scene, Ealasaide - between Kaldir and Rauthain.

[Ealasaide]

Thanks, Pio! smilies/biggrin.gif It was surprisingly hard to write, so I really appreciate the notice. smilies/smile.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

I second that! I was drawn in completely.

[Nerindel]

I completely agree great work Ealasaide. smilies/biggrin.gif

I have put up a post bringing Amandur and Léspheria to Naiore's camp. The sound they have heard outside the camp is Meathor, I hope!? smilies/eek.gif

I am working on Léspheria's post but as it will only show her prospective of what I have already posted, I went ahead and put up Amandurs so, anyone who needed to could continue. smilies/wink.gif

Elora did you get my reply to your last pm?

[Elora]

Add my voice to the chorus! It was fantastic, Ealasaide! smilies/biggrin.gif

Nerindel, I don't know if I got your last pm.... can't remember. I'll go check now and if not, report back here. smilies/smile.gif

(me and my swiss cheese memory)


Oh, advance notice of something:

I'll be heading off on an overseas jaunt in 9 days.

From 4 December until 22 December, I will be either hurtling through the air in a metal tube far above the earth, scampering my way through a winter wonderland in Washington, USA, or on my way back.

Likely, once I land, I'll be out for a few days with fatigue and jet lag and then Christmas is upon us.

I'll endeavour to get on-line whilst scampering as I don't wish to abandon my commitments for that long. However there may be long gaps between my posts. I expect to be back in the seat by no later than December 26, at which point I will probably disappear under a slew of unanswered e-mails and to-be-written posts.

Hence, this notice in advance. Also, if you live in the state of Washington in the USA and you see a blonde woman in a SUV with an Australian flg sticker on it's rump go shooting down the wrong side of the road, that's me. Best bet is to maintain a safe distance.

[Imladris]

BTW, add my voice to the songs of praise to your most excellent post for Kaldir.

I got Maethor up and running...unfortunately it is not very good as I'm tired and today has been such a screwy day anyway... I'm sorry it took me so long.

[Ealasaide]

Thanks, all! smilies/biggrin.gif

Have a good time, Elora! Check in with us when you can. We have some ground to cover in the Lone-lands before we can rejoin Naiore near Rivendell, anyway. There may be orcs about!

Nerindel, Hilde - I have a post ready that takes place primarily in the Lone-lands about five days after the encounter between Kaldir and Rauthain. I am guessing that you have posts you need to get in before that.

Please let me know when I am clear to post mine! Thanks! smilies/biggrin.gif

[ 10:38 PM November 26, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Nerindel]

Sure thing Ealasaide smilies/biggrin.gif

Ok I have finally managed to put up my post for Léspheria, I have edited it to the end of Amandurs last post.

After the meeting of the rangers and Léspheria, I will write a post bringing Lespheria's group within sight of the last bridge.

Elora where is Naiore going to try and waylay Léspheria?

[ 12:02 PM November 27, 2003: Message edited by: Nerindel ]

[Everdawn]

Elora:
IM thinking of doing something between Avanill and Barrold, i want to have Avanill begin to confide in him that he is having second thoughts etc, you know?

So i was just thinking, i have no idea where Barrold would stand on that. Would he be willing to do anything so he could get paid and get Vanwe or would he have been smart enought to think that the plan was not going accordingly?

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Nerindel I have edited my last post for Rauthain to go a bit past his arrival among Amandur, Lespheria and Maethor. Here's hoping that this is OK, also that mentioning Lespheria's sadness showed in her eyes is alright as well. I know that she is struggling to not show her feelings in preparation for what is to come. If it is inapporiate, just drop me a line and I will remove it. smilies/smile.gif

[Nerindel]

Hilde Looks great! smilies/biggrin.gif it will take awhile for Lespheria to master her emotions, she is not as mastered as Naiore, Léspheria has always been guided by her emotions, so this will be a tough adjustment for her and it can't be done overnight. smilies/wink.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Very good, many thanks to you and Lespheria!

[Elora]

Nerindel, I thought to follow your lead concerning Lespheria's encounter with Naiore. AT the time I moved things along, by request, I did not know exactly where other characters would arrive to, by way of precise location.

Everdawn, happy for that to proceed between Avanill and Barrold. Think it best if you write the exchange and I'll work from there. smilies/smile.gif

As for Barrold, he knows he doesn't like the shape of things and he suspects that all that bounty is going to vanish into thin air. For that reason, Barrold will decide to cash in on what he does have, Naiore and the price on her head. It's all a matter of greed and cowardice.

If he cashes in, he gets out with a haul in the hand plus he's freed of any worse trouble than what he's already found. Being so close to Rivendell, in the company of a woman he fears, resents, loathes and needs, results in a treacherous creature that Barrold becomes.

Hope that helps.

I'm running short on time. I'm conscious that things may only start flying about once I'm flying about. I hope I don't stall things too much. I'll do my level best not to.

[Ealasaide]

Hey, Nerindel, can I post yet? I was thinking that you wanted to get another one in for Lespheria before I posted with Benia in the Lone-lands, but I wasn't sure.

Please let me know when I am good to go! Thanks! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Nerindel]

Sorry to keep you waiting Ealasaide smilies/eek.gif But Léspheria's post is now up, so post away! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Ealasaide]

Thanks, Nerindel! I have now posted as well.

[Imladris]

Goodness! I had not realized in my skimmings that so much had been accomplished! I'll try and put up a post for Maethor sometime today, more of a character developement post, so to speak covering the journey with Lespheria. Is that all right?

[Snowdog]

Great going with this story everyone! Enjoyed the read!

Um, Elora, surely you will have some computer access while traveling. smilies/smile.gif

[Elora]

Indeed I hope to, but I wonder what post quality will be whilst away. How much of any worth can be done, if one is typing merrily away, only to be distracted by the wonder of snow every 2 minutes, requiring the immediate relocation to the window from the computer to watch the snow?

smilies/wink.gif

smilies/tongue.gif

I just wanted to let people know in case my posts seem scattered or absent entirely.

[Imladris]

I did a little post for Maethor. If I got anything wrong/if anybody has any issues with it, I'll edit accordingly.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Snow? Did someone say snow? I am fortunate enough to be able to watch the goose feathers fly from the 2 enormous windows that flank my computer. Did it last night, as a matter of fact.

Just be careful Elora, while shooting down the the wrong side of the road. You don't need snow to have black ice, be it in the Rockies or the Misty Mountains! And you just may end up going down both sides at once ...sideways. smilies/eek.gif

Hilde of the Snowbelt

[ 4:15 PM December 03, 2003: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Elora]

Yeah.... it will be a brave new world for this explorer. I have never, ever seen proper snow and the closest I have come to ice is in a really thick, deep frost in the heart of our "winter" here.

Needless to say, I am both really excited about this and harbour considerable trepidation.

Today marks the beginning of my travels. I hope to be able to check back here in a few days.

smilies/smile.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Some of the best travels of my life have started with trepidation. I hope you might find that encouraging! smilies/wink.gif

Do have fun!

I'm off to read what Barrold is up too!

[piosenniel]

Nerindel

Please clear out your PM's

I need to clarify something about your post in the Seventh Star Inn.

Thanks!

~*~ Pio

[Nerindel]

Ok everyone, Sorry it took so long but Dúlrains post is finally up, I kept getting distracted. smilies/eek.gif smilies/tongue.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

It was well worth the wait. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Ealasaide]

Brilliantly written, Nerindel! smilies/biggrin.gif

I agree with Hilde - well worth the wait!

[Nerindel]

Thanks Hilde, Ealasaide. smilies/biggrin.gif

So you liked Gilly's little act of heroism then Hilde smilies/wink.gifwhen Dúlrain figures out what happened he will be much in the hobbits debt smilies/biggrin.gif

[Ealasaide]

I just posted with Kaldir. I hope my portrayal of Dulrain works for you, Nerindel. If there is anything you would like for me to change, please let me know. Thanks!

[Everdawn]

Dont worry, i havnt vanished, im just in the process of writing a post for Our side, which is prooving tricky with Elora gone. Any ideas?

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

So you liked Gilly's little act of heroism then Hilde, when Dúlrain figures out what happened he will be much in the hobbits debt

Yes indeed! Glorious day, what would Gilly do with an indebted ranger!


Everdawn - Perhaps you could develop the discontent a bit more.

[Nerindel]

Hilde, Ealasaide are we going to hear from Gilly and Benia before I go on with Dúlrain? And what about Rauthain? whats going to happen with him?.

I noticed in Elora's last post she had Toby report that he had seen 3 rangers and Léspheria, I assume this third ranger is Rauthain???

I have been holding off posting for Amandur, till I saw how the whistle senario panned out and that group caught up time wise! Naiore et all and Lesperia et all are still a week ahead of us!

Again I apologise for holding things up, but I would like to try and have us all near Rivendell before Elora returns, if possible, well in the troll shaws at least. smilies/biggrin.gif

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 8:47 AM December 15, 2003: Message edited by: Nerindel ]

[Ealasaide]

Nerindel - you're not holding things up! I know Hilde is planning to post with both Gilly and Rauthain as soon as she can get to it. I was waiting for Gilly (& hopefully Dulrain) before I posted with Benia. Rauthain will be coming to find Dulrain and there will be an upcoming interaction with him before we are able to advance the timeframe to catch up with those already outside Imladris. I will be posting again with Kaldir once Hilde posts with Rauthain.

Sorry if that is holding you up! With Elora absent, the folks outside Imladris are in a little bit of a stall anyway. The Lonelands Group will catch up as soon as we can. smilies/smile.gif A few more posts should take care of it. I hope to advance the time frame with my next post from Kaldir.

I hope that works for you! smilies/smile.gif

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 12:18 PM December 15, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

I'm working on it! smilies/biggrin.gif Sorry to be a straggler. Ealasaide is right that Rauthain is going to show up with the Lonelands group and after that could be free to join up with Amandur's group if needed. Inthe meantime if they could carry on without him.

But I have been neglecting Gilly, so want to get in a post for her, (not that you haven't been doing a rather excellent job with her!)
Anyway, I finally have had a little time to write, so have begun my post.

[Nerindel]

Ok! thanks guys. smilies/biggrin.gif

I will post for Dúlrain, once Hilde has had the chance to put up her post for Gilly. smilies/wink.gif

[Ealasaide]

Okay - sounds good. Thanks, Nerindel! smilies/smile.gif

(Also, Nerindel, have you been getting my PM's? I notice that I have not received answers to the last three I sent (the last one in response to yours), so I am beginning to wonder. Please let me know! Thanks. smilies/biggrin.gif)

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 3:44 PM December 16, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Imladris]

Um, I hate to be a pain, but does Maethor need to be doing anything? The reason I ask this is the last time I posted for him was on the first of December and technically I'm out of the game because "Any character that goes missing for a two week period of time can be 'killed off' or 'lost' and will be out of the game."

This is not saying I want to be out of the game, because I don't, I just don't know what to do with him, you know? There hasn't really been any opportunity to post with him.

I hadn't realized it had been so long since I posted for him...

[Nerindel]

Imladris Sorry about that, I have so much to do and not enough time to do it in, The next move for Meathor, Léspheria and Amandur, would be to get across the bridge and into the Troll shaw as this is where I think Naiore et all are hiding and I think Naiore has set things up for an encounter???

I was planning to write something for Amandur but I was waiting for the Lone lands group to catch up to see where Rauthain would fit in, because I beleive Elora has also began to set things up for a scene between Barrold and Rauthain.

If you like you can take us into the Troll shaws and into the night setting up camp somewhere, where Lespheria will alert the group that she senses Naiore is near. smilies/biggrin.gif

Hilde, EalasaideDúlrains post is up. smilies/wink.gif

*+*+*+*+*+*+*


Pio please could you place the following post before Everdawns post of December 17, 2003 01:29AM, Thank you. smilies/biggrin.gif

Toby

After reporting to Naiore Toby huddled himself against the bowel of a nearby tree, but he could find no comfort. The closer they got to this place Naiore called Imladris , the more uneasy he had become and now with the revelation that she was bringing reinforcements, which should have to his mind abated his anxiety, but now he found it only increased it, bringing the dawning that they where now dispensable and he had no doubt that if things went awry she and the others would leave him to his own fate, without a second thought.

He fumbled about in his pack for something to eat, food always helped to calm his nerves enabling him to think clearly. "Keep quiet, my hill rat," Toby turned at Barrold's hard words and narrowing his eyes he crunched hard on the apple, but as Barrold shifted he leaned back against the tree, "Hill rat!" he snorted indignantly, "Least I'm no murderer!" he mumbled to himself. staring hard at Barrolds back.

As he chewed through the apple he thought about their pursuers, the Bounty hunter Kaldir and his two female companions, one of which to his surprise was a hobbit, had now been joined by Dúlrain, a ranger that Toby was acquainted with, he kept his thoughts on this group, although he feared the bounty hunter he knew the ranger Dúlrain was a just sort, even when the ranger him thrown in the lock holes for thieving, he had made sure that the judgement was fair and fitting with his crime.

Casting a scrupulous gaze over the others, he wondered if some reward would be placed on Barrold and Avanill for killing the old man, Tallas? and if he could use their crimes against them, after all he was a victim of mere coincidence, a prisoner of his fear and had committed no crimes that would warrant his death! Perhaps during one of his scoutings he could secretly treat with the ranger. But then his gaze fell on Vanwe and he shivered, not from the chill night air, but from the images of Naiore's assaults on her own flesh and blood, if she did this to her own what evils would she bestow on someone who betrayed her?

But as he looked at the young elf, he felt himself pitying her, The first time he witnessed Naiore's brutal treatment of her daughter he had been physically sick, never before had he seen the like and he found himself several times after fighting the urge to cry out for Naiore to stop, his cowardice the only thing keeping him in check. Before he even realised what he was doing he had lifted his water skin and was walking towards Vanwe.

At his approach she looked up, he shivered violently as her serene expression matched that of her mothers. "Here you should drink something," he fumbled holding the skin out to her, but her blue eyes just stared at him blankly. "It's just water " he said taking a drink to assure her. "You should keep up your strength!" he whispered looking over his shoulder to make sure no-one else could hear him. Hesitantly she took the skin and drank deeply, With what was the beginnings of a smile on his lips he turned to leave, but stopped as the elf spoke.

"Thank you."

He did not turn back, but those two little words stirred emotions in him that he thought were long dead, killed when he had betrayed his fellow hobbits and listened to the honeyed promises of old sharky, now so long ago in his memory. Guilt, pain and regret soon followed, After the scouring of the Shire Toby had only helped himself, but this night Vanwe's words had made him feel good and as he lay down to sleep he resolved that if he should happen on one of the rangers he would leave some clearer clue for them to follow, that they may save the young woman from the fate her mother was shaping for her.

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 5:56 AM December 21, 2003: Message edited by: Nerindel ]

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

I apologize, as I feel that I am holding this up. I will try to get Rauthain's done ASAP.

[Imladris]

That's okay Nerindel. I well understand the feeling of being busy! I'm currently quite sick right now, so it might take a day or two to actually get a decent post up for Maethor.

Cheers!
Istawen

Edit: I did a little something for Maethor. I know it's not much, but I suppose it'll do. Oh, and Merry Christmas to all!

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 4:03 PM December 21, 2003: Message edited by: Imladris ]

[piosenniel]

Nerindel

Your post is in place. smilies/smile.gif

I want to let everyone know I've extended the closing date for the RPG. (Holidays and Elora being gone)

Can you aim now for 01/31? And of course with the possibility of extension should you need it.

Great writing as always! I continue to enjoy the unfolding of the story.

~*~ Pio

[Ealasaide]

Yikes! I am away from the computer for a day and a half and everybody posts!!! Great stuff. I will try to get posts up for Benia and Kaldir ASAP.

Thanks for the extension, Pio. We will do our best to wrap it up by the end of January. smilies/smile.gif

[Elora]

Hey ho one and all!


Wonderful reading and I hope my post proves not problematic or disappointing.

I would have had the orcs attack that morning, but reasoned that they are Misty Mountain orcs and so would be very reluctant to do anything beneath the sun. So, orc and Naiore and co will fall on Rangers at nightfall.

I've also dispatched Vanwe to Imladris, and had the foresight (rare) to prepare a post that will deal with Menecin's sighting of Vanwe.

Let me know if any wish also to sight/encounter Vanwe on her way. I see her as moving almost like a vision, fey seeming, through the trees towards Imladris as she struggles with herself.

I'll hold off on writing anything until nightfall reaches us.

It's good to be back. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Ealasaide]

Hey, Elora! Welcome back!
I have not had a chance to read your post, so I don't know if it will affect me or not. I had planned to post with Kaldir as soon as I could find a minute to myself and advance the Lonelands group to Rivendell. If there is a time-frame conflict, I can always have Pio place my post above yours.

Sorry, everybody, for holding things up. I have had a massive influx of relatives in to visit & have not had any writing time at all. I will try my best to get a post or two up on the thread tonight!

[Ealasaide]

Okay...I have finally posted & moved Kaldir's group to the borders of Rivendell.

Hilde - Rauthain is still on Naiore's trail in the Lonelands.

Hilde & Nerindel - Gilly and Dulrain are with Benia and Kaldir just outside Rivendell's border. Kaldir plans to deliver Dulrain into the hands of elven healers as soon as possible (i.e. daybreak). He hopes to keep Gilly and Benia with him outside Rivendell, but will no longer force them to stay with him if they wish to leave.

If there is anything in my post I need to change, please let me know. Thanks for everyone's patience! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Ealasaide]

Ummm, Elora... I was debating whether to say anything or not since I liked your post so much, but I decided for continuity's sake I had better go ahead and mention that there were only four orcs in the group who encountered Gilly & Benia in the Lonelands. All four were killed by Dulrain with no survivors.

[Elora]

Hmmmm, no worries. Will edit. I figure that whilst there were only 4 orcs encountered, a larger contingent would have known of their fate and Naiore would have sensed the turmoil of conflict in them.

smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

Okay...whatever works. They were part of a larger group - probably your group - but had gotten separated and lost, which is why they were bickering and running around in circles.
I don't know how the other orcs would know of their fate as there were no other orcs in the immediate area, certainly not close enough to have seen Gilly and Benia.

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 9:52 AM December 30, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Elora]

I thought it more than likely that the band of orcs would have been using scouts, being as they are in decidedly enemy territory in the surrounds of Imladris.

The four who met their ends split from the larger group to pursue sport following a scout's report. The others remained with the larger group, though by no means were they not in favour of the sport the 4 went after. Simply, they were more afraid of their leader.

smilies/smile.gif

[Nerindel]

ok I'm lost again! smilies/frown.gif

Ealasaide when you say they made their camp outside the boundries of the fair realm, does this mean they have not yet crossed the ford?


Elora Naiore et all are hidden somewhere in the troll shaws close to the ford or a few hours away,is this right?

And Is Naiore going to have the two ranger groups attacked separately or are Kaldir et all going to be close enough to Lespheria's group (who will be ready to cross the ford by night fall) to aid them when Naiores orcs attack?????

My original plan was to have Amandur and Maethor hold off the orc's while Léspheria crosses the ford and hurries to Imaldris, but Elora it looks like you have other plans, please let me know if you what an encounter between Naiore and Lespheria before she reaches her kin.

[Ealasaide]

Nerindel - no, they have not yet crossed the ford. If this mucks up anything you already had planned, please let me know. It would only take me a few seconds to do an edit. smilies/smile.gif Basically, I can put them anywhere anyone needs them to be!

Elora - okay! smilies/smile.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Hmm...I thought that Naiore and crew were north-east of Imladris already. I'm quite curious to find out where indeed they are, as is Rauthain. smilies/tongue.gif

[Imladris]

Yes, I'm quite confuzzled as well. Aren't we going to be attacked by orcs pretty soon too?

The main point of this post, besides the fact that I'm slightly hazy on the details, is to notify everyone that I'm still here and haven't disappeared.

[Nerindel]

Ok, Amandurs post is up and the orcs are attacking. I will post for Léspheria once I see Naiores next move. smilies/evil.gif

But I have put saves up for Toby and Dulrain, after Vanwes silent plea, Naiore's treatment of Barrold and the realisation that he is repeating the same mistakes of his past, he will sneak away and be caught by Kaldir et all or he may even seek them out, still undecided on this.

Dulrains post will incorporate both Ealasaide and Hildes last posts and add to his growing affections for Benia and the realistaion that Kaldir too has feelings for the southern woman, and will end with the finding of Toby.

I will try to fill these saves as soon as possible, if not tomorrow it will be tuesday.

[Everdawn]

OK, now would be a time for Avanill to decide to do something. Im just in a predicament over whether he should get captured or wait to get betrayed by Naiore, however, i feel that Avanill would be more perceptive than that as he already beginning to suspect that something is going to happen to him.

I just dont want him to die, but i do want him to lie and cheat or possibly kill his way out of it. What do you guys think?

[Nerindel]

Imladris What the !!!!! smilies/eek.gif It would never happen, For one Amandur said to pull back if they became over powered and he would see to Maethor's safety before his own.

It's a great post, I'm just sorry to see Maethor leave our ranks in such a horrific manner. smilies/frown.gif

Everdawn Just to let you know, both Amandur and Dúlrain will wish to take Avanill in for the murder of Tallas.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Ack! Imladris,what have you done?! Here I was supressing the urge to shout medic and wondering if his tetnus booster was up to date and then I read the last lines. Holy Snikeys! Rauthain will be seriously upset. smilies/frown.gif

(I hope that this is not a part of some ill-advised New Year's Resolution regarding the Downs! smilies/wink.gif )

[Imladris]

Yikes, calm down you guys!!! Let me first explain all this.

Maethor was a bit busy don't you think, and I'm sure that Amandur was as well.

And how many orcs were there? I tried to find at least a general number and failed. Ah well...

How many thing go according to plan in battle? Here is a group of orcses (sorry, coudn't resist mate) and two men, rangers albeit but also men. I don't think it's relistic to have them holding off orcs that outnumber them. It couldn't happen! In movies yes but not so in real life. Especially when you are in the open and easily circled.

I was adding a bit of realism to the game...plus a little plot twist. It just seems to me that the whole hero stuff is overrated. Sure rangers could fight extraordinarily well -- but they were still only human. If, maybe, they were fighting upon a bridge where only two could have come upon at a time, Maethor wouldn't have died. A little tragedy adds a lot to the story, I say. And what could be more tragic than a ranger who has had nothing to do with Naiore before all this and who has a gentle and kind heart?

I hope that this is not a part of some ill-advised New Year's Resolution regarding the Downs!

Oh no, you'll still see me around just as obsessively as before! smilies/biggrin.gif

[piosenniel]

With a struggling gasp, Maethor glanced towards the ford. A rainbow shimmered in its waters.

Well done, Imladris!

Can't wait to see the other characters' reactions.

[Everdawn]

Maethor’s head rolled upon the ground

Dude! Nice death! smilies/wink.gif


Anyhow...

Yes i suppose they will want to get Avanill wont they. Hmmm, ok, i can work with that, i need to perpare some htings in my mind first.

Is Elora still on holidays?

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 10:03 PM January 05, 2004: Message edited by: Everdawn ]

[Ealasaide]

Yikes! smilies/eek.gif I'm away from the computer for one day and we lose one of our companions!!! Sorry to lose you and Maethor so abruptly, Imladris. I guess Maethor won't be helping out Vanwe after all, eh? Too bad!

Excellent posts, all! I will wait to post again until Nerindel fills those saves. (I thought we banned saves on this game?!?) Anyway, good work, everyone! smilies/smile.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Ellora are you out there? I am beginning to wonder if you are having some difficulties, for it has been a while since we have heard from you. I hope that all is well.

I hope also that Rauthain's location is alright by everyone. I figure that he is still a good deal north west of the ford, but do feel free to have him pop up in your posts if you'd like. smilies/wink.gif

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 8:48 AM January 07, 2004: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Imladris]

Death does come abruptly, doesn't it?

Thank you for all the compliments for the death...inspiration struck me when I was brushing my teeth (interesting place for the Muse to strike, eh?). I will still be reading the game, though...it's very interesting.

Cheers all!
Imladris

[Everdawn]

Elora are you out there? I am beginning to wonder if you are having some difficulties, for it has been a while since we have heard from you. I hope that all is well.

And now im getting worried that she got attacked by some Nazgûl getting off the plane or something! Especially since im in the dark about what is happening to our party next!

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

From what I had understood, she was back by December 26th or there abouts and had been catching up on the RPG's.

Let's hope that she has just locked herself in a room with a pencil and a ream of paper and is busily writing away! Or has some other similarly pleasant distraction.

[Nerindel]

Ok everyone my saves are filled. smilies/wink.gif

Ealasaide the snapping twigs is a tired Toby. smilies/biggrin.gif

Imladris it was good writing with you and good luck with your Moria Rpg it looks great. smilies/wink.gif

[Ealasaide]

Nerindel - thanks for the heads up! And great post. It gives me quite a lot to work with. I will try to have something up there in the next day or so if all goes according to plan. smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

I have posted with Kaldir and Benia. Toby has been nabbed and is now in the custody of Kaldir and Dulrain.

(A perfect instance of good cop/bad cop, eh?)

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 11:57 PM January 09, 2004: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Everdawn]

OK i dont mean to be a bother,(or sound like an airhead-blonde) "But im totally stressing out here right now!"

Did Elora leave any note with anyone on her specific intentions with her part of the game? Becuase Avanill at the moment is in situ. I dont want to change anything drastically incase it wrecks something and i dont want Avanill to abandon the part at this point in time.

[Everdawn]

&gt;

By the way, I love the posts between Benia and Kaldir, im just like "awww". I hope there is a happy ending for them both after this.

[piosenniel]

Let me PM Elora and see when she'll be able to get back to this game and her other one.

I do know she said she could not play in the Game in Gondor because of being very busy this week, and possibly next.

Let me see what i can find out from her.

~*~ Pio

[Ealasaide]

Hilde & I both already have sent PM's to Elora, regarding whether or not she will be able to continue. I hope she answers one of us soon.

Everdawn - thanks! smilies/biggrin.gif

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 9:17 AM January 10, 2004: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Elora]

WOW smilies/eek.gif

So much has happened and here I was thinking a week or so would make little difference to the flow of the RP. Foolish me.

Imladris, wonderful post! Sorry to see you go. I was looking forward further to Vanwe's interaction with your character. But your character and your call. Besides, with such a well written post, there is no merit in my own plans to ask you to reconsider.

For those still in the land of the living, applause to you also and my sincere apologies.

Yes, I did land back at my home very late on the 23rd. Due to a case of jetlag (after a 22 hour flight and 3 days spent in transit at various airport hells) and christmas, it was a further few days before I could get back to Barrow Downs. Family came first, given that I had been absent for 19 days or so.

On New Years Eve, I was called away at short notice. So short, I could not get a P.M fired off. I had to go a-visiting places to promote my profile as an author, places with little internet facilities for the likes of me. In Australia there are lots of places where Internet consists of an antiquate terminal crowed by a line of patiently waiting people determined not to give up on the promised wonder of the technological age and defying the temptation to give up and write a letter instead (be a lot quicker than internet).

So, my net time was sporadicas a result. Now, I am back in my chair for another 2 weeks at least and I shall not be dropping the ball in play during that time.

My apologies once again, but such are the occupational and regional hazards of my job and home. smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

Excellent post, Elora! Good to have you back! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Everdawn]

*Everdawn is VERY VERY relieved* ok now that ive recovered from my heart attack. smilies/biggrin.gif WELCOME BACk Elora!...
I had no idea you live in Australia, me too! anyway, back to business i guess.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Glad to have you back safe and sound Elora!

[Elora]

Must say that it feels grand to be back amongst such fine company. smilies/smile.gif

Everdawn, an Aussie indeed I am. I think you're a Sydney-ite. I'm up in Northern Queensland, a veritable country away. Hope you fare well in bushfire season.

Just some notes on my tenuous plans for Naiore, Barrold, Vanwe and Menecin (did I forget a character on my writing list.....)

I plan to have Vanwe reach Rivendell in late dusk. The place will be in uproar with the orc incursions at the Ford and hence she will find Imladris remarkably quiet, with most attentions diverted to the impending threat. There, she shall wander close to her father's "cell", he shall sight her, raise hell thinking it Naiore, and bring to Imladris' attention the intruder. Vanwe shall be taken into custody in the resultant confusion, and there fall into a tried and true habit when jailed through mistaken identity: say nothing, do nothing, and let them figure it out for themselves as they tend to do with enough time.

What Vanwe does not know is that her mother's compulsion cannot be lightly set aside. It has it's barbs deep into her. Penned as she will be, Vanwe will be unable to eat or rest. No relief or succour until she has delivered her father to her mother. As a result, Vanwe's refusal to eat will be seen as a manipulation by the sons of Elrond and further count against her.

Menecin will be the only one who in the end frees Vanwe, establishing that she is not Naiore and is, in fact, his daughter.

Meanwhile, Naiore will move into action with the orcs. Battle is a dangerous thing for her. She will not fare well and will fail, driven off to hide and await the only iron she has left in the fire - Vanwe. When Vanwe fails to return, Naiore will take flight and so the hunt will be afoot again.

Barrold will endeavour to preserve his hide and make a profit by selling out Naiore to the first available person willing to pay something for the information. I was thinking of having him bump into Kaldir, which in turn would lead him to Naiore's whereabouts. Naiore will be after Lespheria predominantly, and will direct the orcs towards Kaldir's location.

Confronted by both Lespheria and Kaldir, spectre of her past, Naiore pulls back when she realises that this catch is too big for her with such an undisciplined force. The treachery of Barrold will have undone her, as will have Toby's. Everdawn, I don't know if you want Avanill to buy into Barrold's latest money making scheme or not. I'll leave that up to you.

Naiore's only consolation will be to kill Barrold herself, with her bare hands, before she is driven off to await Vanwe.

Now, they're just tenuous plans at best. Hope they make sense and fit overall with other plans.

Let me know if you think there's a snag or want to weave something into that for your own characters. Always happy to do that. smilies/smile.gif

[Nerindel]

Great to have you back Elora! smilies/biggrin.gif

I've put a post up for Léspheria if anything doesn't fit let me know.

[Ealasaide]

It seems I have created a time warp! I thought Naiore's orcs were going to attack Rivendell at night, so I wrote my posts for nighttime. Now I see the battle is taking place during the day. Whoops! I will be performing a quick edit to put us all back on the same time frame.

It shouldn't affect anything anyone is doing now. It will just bring us all on to the same page, so to speak.

We are in the late afternoon outside of Rivendell. smilies/smile.gif

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

Barrold will endeavour to preserve his hide and make a profit by selling out Naiore to the first available person willing to pay something for the information. I was thinking of having him bump into Kaldir, which in turn would lead him to Naiore's whereabouts. Naiore will be after Lespheria predominantly, and will direct the orcs towards Kaldir's location.


Elora - this sounds good to me. I have a few particulars to work out with Nerindel, but overall it looks good. smilies/biggrin.gif

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 4:07 PM January 12, 2004: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Everdawn]

Everdawn, an Aussie indeed I am. I think you're a Sydney-ite. I'm up in Northern Queensland, a veritable country away. Hope you fare well in bushfire season.


Nope, im Queenslander, im in Brisbane.


Ok this is what i was hoping for. IM thinking that Avanill realises that he is way too deep and for once *shock horror* he cares not for the money or for the things that Naiore said she could give him. He has long suspected that they would fail.

Now, i think he will put Barrold into a sleep or something soon (you know, like "hey Barrold, you look thirsty, here have a drink, sucker") and then he leaves them, and is captured by... (have no idea) but he spins this brilliant web of lies which will give Barrold's account no credibility- I was tinking somethign along the lines of, "elf magic" "he was really trying to rescue Vanwe, and tell some lie about how he loved her and wanted to rescue her and it's only now that he realised he cannot do it alone. He could then say Vanwe's gone mad, Naiore is contorlling her, she has been controlling all of them.

As for the murder of Tallas, he burned his shirt and there is no evidence that Avanill was involved, (he was smarter than this, and while the rangers know he was involved they cannot tie him to it,) besides, he will blame it all on Barrold.

And thats al ive come up with, how does that sound Elora?

[Nerindel]

It seems I have created a time warp! I thought Naiore's orcs were going to attack Rivendell at night, so I wrote my posts for nighttime. Now I see the battle is taking place during the day. Whoops! I will be performing a quick edit to put us all back on the same time frame.

Ealasaide how do you make it afternoon?

by early evening they could hear the crisp clear sound of the river Bruinen as it ran it's course to join the Mithiethel. (Amandur's post jan 3rd 10.50pm)

The setting sun held not its exqisite wonder, but reminded her of the blood that would be spilled this night in their fair realm,

It would have also taken Toby some time to find Kaldir et all, he would have backtracked to their last known location then followed the trail to their current position, I thought they would hear the battle as they finish questioning Toby?

[Ealasaide]

Okay... it's around dusk (which to my warped mind is late afternoon. Very late! smilies/wink.gif Does that work for everyone? I just initally wrote the capture of Toby to take place in the dark. I have since changed it to daylight.

Yes, that sounds good regarding their hearing the sounds of battle just as they finish questioning Toby. But, I would think Toby was nabbed before dark. On the other hand, if my post works better the way it was before, let me know & I can change it back. I seem to be muddying the waters when I was actually trying to clear them.

Ooh, Yikes! Nerindel & Hilde- Elora is sending orcs after us! Do we fight or make a run for it into Imladris? Or both?

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 11:35 AM January 13, 2004: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Elora]

Lemme know what how you want to handle the orcs that Naiore, not nice Elora ( smilies/wink.gif ), is sending after Kaldir, et. al.

If it's dusk, I shall write something for Menecin. I won't do anything for Naiore until I know how you folks are responding to the attack a little further.

Everdawn, fellow Queenslander, that plan for Avanill sounds great. I should imagine that when the chips are falling, neither Barrold nor Avanill will be minded to help the other fellow out. smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

Oops! Sorry, Elora! smilies/biggrin.gif

Naiore is sending orcs after "us!"

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 5:53 PM January 13, 2004: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

My apologies Nerindel! I just realized that Toby is not even a "mite stout" so I have amended my post after finally unearthing his character description.

I had thought to bring Rauthain back down toward the road and find a few orcs on the way. If you would like for him to meet up with Avanill that would work fine for me.

He will be trying to find the rest of the rangers at that point.

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 12:05 PM January 14, 2004: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Nerindel]

No worries Hilde smilies/wink.gif

Ooh, Yikes! Nerindel & Hilde- Elora is sending orcs after us! Do we fight or make a run for it into Imladris? Or both?


Toby will want to run for it, no doubt in that!

Dúlrain really really doesn't like orcs and will what to fight, but either Benia or Kaldir could convince him otherwise.

If Gilly needs a weapon before we reach Imladris Dúlrain could give her his companion sword it is slightly longer than a dagger, but surprisingly lighter, he would probably give it to her even if they decide to run for it, just incase smilies/wink.gif

[piosenniel]

Just checking in to tell you fine writers once again how much I am enjoying the development of the game.

~*~ Pio

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Dúlrain, always such a gentleman, sigh.... smilies/biggrin.gif Many thanks Nerindel!

[Ealasaide]

Thanks, Pio! smilies/biggrin.gif Thanks also for being such a good sport about time! (I know we are way overdue!)

Elora - yes, it is dusk. Go ahead with Menecin!

Also, Kaldir's group will make a break for Rivendell, but I expect them to have to fight their way through. I hope to get a post up for Kaldir sometime tonight to get it started.

[piosenniel]

You're welcome!

And please don't rush the story to meet an arbitrary deadline . . . it's going along just fine.

~*~ Pio

[Ealasaide]

Ah, marvelous! Again, many thanks! I hate arbitrary deadlines!!!! They put such pressure on a person... smilies/smile.gif

[Ealasaide]

Okay, my post is up. Kaldir & Co. are on the move, riding quickly in the direction of the river. They intend to cross north of the ford but south of the waterfall. They expect to have to fight their way through.

Elora - Naiore's orcs may attack at any time.

Nerindel - I hope I handled Dulrain & Toby in an acceptable manner. Please let me know if I need to change anything!

Hilde & Nerindel - I didn't know how to handle the bit about the sword, so I left it for the two of you to work out. I see it as happening anytime after Kaldir and Dulrain move to break camp.

[Elora]

OK, I've written a post for Menecin and Vanwe at Imladris.

As for Naiore and her orclings, I think the best way to do it is for those being attacked to write in how they deal with the attacks. That way, I don't god-mode your characters unsuitably.

So feel free to write the encounter for the perspective of your characters, as I think you each have the best feel for how orcs will challenge your character's abilities.

[Ealasaide]

As for Naiore and her orclings, I think the best way to do it is for those being attacked to write in how they deal with the attacks. That way, I don't god-mode your characters unsuitably.

So feel free to write the encounter for the perspective of your characters, as I think you each have the best feel for how orcs will challenge your character's abilities.


That makes sense to me! smilies/smile.gif

[Everdawn]

Hilde, sounds great!
Im going to give Barrold the slip pretty soon, is that good with you Elora?

[Everdawn]

oH BOY, Now i find myself stuck in the bush with no computer! Im back on Monday, which is in two days and i promise i have so much written but the disk it was on which i was hoping to post today doesnt work in this computer im on at my cousins house!

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Very nice post Everdawn!

[Everdawn]

Thanks Hilde, The next post which im in the process of creating will have Avanill coming your way, so get ready. smilies/wink.gif

[Nerindel]

Ok Everyone, Léspheria is finally in Rivendell.

Elora, I wasn't sure what you were going to do next with Menecin so if hearing and misconstruing his rantings doesn't work for you let me know. I just put it in so that when she hears the rumours we discussed, she puts two and two together and realises her error.

Ealasaide, your potrayal of Dúlrain and Toby is great! Thanks. smilies/biggrin.gif

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 9:19 PM January 20, 2004: Message edited by: Nerindel ]

[piosenniel]

. . . Gilly dug her heels into the pony and shouting “for the Shire!” . . .

Go get 'em, you stout hearted Hobbit!

~*~ Pio smilies/biggrin.gif

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Many thanks to Ealasaide and Nerindel for helping give Gilly more of a backbone than she might normally have if left to her own devices! smilies/wink.gif

[Everdawn]

Hilde, ive posted. I hope the dialogue between our characters is ok, if it's not just let me know and i shall change.

-Everdawn

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

It is fine Everdawn.

[Ealasaide]

Hi, everyone! I just wanted to let you know that I am trying very hard to get a post up from Kaldir, but it is giving me fits. I'll do my best to get something up today. Sorry for the delay!

[Ealasaide]

Okay...my posts for Kaldir and Benia are finally up...such as they are. Again, sorry for the delay. It's been a tough week. smilies/tongue.gif

[Ealasaide]

ANNOUNCEMENT:
Since it has been 16 days now without a post to the game or even a note on the Discussion Thread regarding her absence, Elora is now officially missing in action.

In accordance with BD rules, Elora's characters can now be picked up and carried along by the other characters. Everyone, please be sure to continue playing her characters within the bounds of their character bios and the previous courses of action Elora has set for them. Pio has notified Elora of all this.

Elora - We miss you! If you happen to find your way back to us, please contact me about rejoining the game. Nobody else can write your characters the way you can! smilies/smile.gif

[Everdawn]

Maybe her power got cut off! We have had really huge storms in Queensland at the moment. Ah well. Will post for Avanill soon!

[Ealasaide]

Excellent posts, Hilde & Nerindel!!!

I will try to have something up in the next day or so in response.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Oh, I second that one Nerindel! Poor Dulrain! Actually, poor Benia & Toby too!

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 6:56 AM February 03, 2004: Message edited by: Hilde Bracegirdle ]

[Snowdog]

Just stepping in here for a friend. There is much going on with Elora since returning from the states, and I know from experience that its is sometimes hard to pick up writing in story suddenlike after time off. I will let her know she is listed as MIA, for I don't think she wants others to write her characters.

On my own front, things are such in RL where I may be able to write again on a limited basis. I wont get into any commitments, but will write in the Inn threads for a bit to try and regain my muse. I have a side story on what was up with Hanasían after his departure here.

Anyway, good writing all!

[Ealasaide]

Good to hear from you, Snowdog. Yes, please let Elora know that she is missed. None of us are particularly eager to take over her characters because they are so uniquely hers.

At the same time, though, the story is just building to the final climax. We have been tying up quite a lot of space on the forum for quite a long time and the Mods are eager for us to finish. We need her NOW! smilies/biggrin.gif Please pass the word along and tell her that we are all hoping she will be able to finish the game with us.

(Unfortunately, until we hear from her directly, she will still have to be considered MIA. smilies/frown.gif )

I'll be looking forward to seeing you & Hanasian around the inns! smilies/smile.gif

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 10:33 PM February 02, 2004: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Snowdog]

(Unfortunately, until we hear from her directly, she will still have to be considered MIA. smilies/frown.gif ) Yeah, I know, and she knows too.

[piosenniel]

Please do understand that Elora and I have now been in contact. She is plowed under with deadline work on her novel for a number of weeks into the future, and cannot post to her games.

She does understand that the games must go forward, and that her characters will be handled as gently as possible.

Thanks!

~*~ Pio, Game Moderator

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 10:51 AM February 03, 2004: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Nerindel]

Thanks Pio!

Towards the end of November myself and Elora discussed how we saw our characters unfolding as the story reached Imladris, she pm'ed me how she saw her characters progessing, which I will now in part (as most of that which we discussed has come to pass)post here:

*Naiore finds things go ill for her. She despises battle. Vanwe has not returned. Her foes are drawing in. She finds herself surrounded by orcs, whom she detests, caught in battle which she loathes. It is all coming undone. Despair, bleak and cold, strips away all her calmness and in the midst of battle, Naiore is revealed for what lies at her heart, buried deep - an elf woman lost and snared in shadows. She flees as best she can, still hoping that Vanwe will return and with no option but to wait. The prospect of a hunted retreat looms before her. It is all coming undone.

*Vanwe finds herself in a secure cell of Imladris. She is soon discovered not to be Naiore. The sons of Elrond discover that within the first hour of her detention. However, Vanwe is not providing her captors with anything. Caught in a cell again, she draws within herself and refuses to speak, all food and water. Somehow, she believes that her mother will come for her.

*Menecin encounters his daughter as a last measure to break her silence. He saw her and uttered the cry that alerted the guards and has been clamouring to see her ever since. At first, he had thought it Naiore. When she turned, and he saw his own eyes (clear and not mad) gazing back at him, he was shocked to come face to face with his daughter. Elrohir and Elladan were stiffly reluctant to allow him to see her. It is Menecin that finally breaks Vanwes silence and starts to unravel the evil and lies that bind her.

*The orcs discover that their leader has left them to their own devices. faced by Rangers and Elves, they decide to preserve their own hides and themselves slip away as best they can, swearing oaths of retribution for the Elf that left them to die.

*Naiore realises she cannot wait any longer and is forced to run like a hunted animal. Her mood is dangerously bleak. She is a woman with nothing left.

*Vanwe proves herself her mother's daughter in her ability to rally back. When the hunt for Naiore resumes in Imladris, Vanwe insists on coming with them. With them also travels Menecin. He is strangly calm and reasonably lucid, but not entirely sane. It is his daughter that achieves this.

I hope this helps.

[Ealasaide]

Thanks, Pio! It's good to know that Elora is off working on her novel, which is positive thing for her. I was afraid something awful might have happened. Very glad to know that all is safe & well!

Thanks, Nerindel! That helps quite a lot.

Okay, gang... our work is all set out for us. Let's keep the momentum rolling and give this wonderful RPG the strong ending it deserves! smilies/smile.gif

<font size=1 color=339966>[ 12:37 PM February 03, 2004: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

[Snowdog]

Write on! smilies/smile.gif

[piosenniel]

Note to All Players

The move to the new board restored all your signatures to previous game posts.

Don’t bother fixing them!

Just remove signatures from the new posts you place on the game.

~*~ Pio, Shire Mod

[Ealasaide]

Great post, Hilde!
Nerindel, Everdawn - are you with us? Just checking that you made the jump to the new forum!

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Thanks Ealasaide.

I have seen traces of Everdawn's making the jump. Happy belated Birthday, by the way! ;)

And Nerindel if you are out there, did you post on the thread and then lose it? I got a e-mail notice of your posting, but never saw it. Perhaps it was a fluke with the change to the new message board.

[Everdawn]

Ta! and yes im here!glad you all made it. Jeez, it sounds like we made a pilgrimage or something doesnt it? :D

[Ealasaide]

Good to see you, Everdawn!

Hilde - I think the e-mail alerts also cover edits now, whereas before we were only alerted to new posts.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Ah, so many new goodies. That one will come in handy!

[Nerindel]

Yes, I'm here! ;)

No post Hilde, I just removed my sig. before pio kindly informed us not to bother. :o


I'm trying to put together a post for HTBD's at the moment, (Which unusually for me, is proving quite a difficult task.:eek: ), but I have also began working on a post for Amandur in which I will have him seeing Naiore disappearing back into the shadows leaving her allies to their fate.

[Ealasaide]

Good to see you, Nerindel!

We'll be looking froward to seeing your post whenever you are ready! I, too, am working on a post that will bring Kaldir & Co to the Stair. As I see it, they won't actually gain the stair until after Amandur & the elves drive Naiore & the orcs back.

[Ealasaide]

So, Hilde, all other map discussions aside;) , where exactly are Rauthain and Avanill in relation to Rivendell and the Battle of the Ford?

[Aredhel Ar-Feiniel]

IM posting this on behalf of Everdawn.

Yesterday we did the Mundara Endurance, which is an endurance horse race in Queensland, at about the 3/4 mark there was a Taipan on the trail and her horse did not see it until it was right in front of him and Everdawn was thrown and is in hospital with two broken ribs and some damage to some other muscles and something else, (i cant remember). This means she cant post here for about a week, so she has asked me to be her go-between. I went to her house this morning and collected from her place here posts and notes on all her games. She is writing things as best she can from hospital and i was wondering if it was ok that i post them here for her. That shouldnt be a problem should it?

And i will print out all posts she has missed on both the Discussion Threads and the Rp and deliver them to her so she can review them.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Oh, poor Everdawn! :( Please give her our best wishes along with those posts! I hope that they are keeping her comfortable.
And thanks Aredhel Ar-Feiniel for helping her out.

Ealasaide I was going to say that I left Rauthain and Avanill just about to cross "The Ford" and didn't know if Everdawn wanted to write a post for Avanill before they headed for the stair to Rivendell. I had pictured that there would still be a few orcs left watching the east side of the Ford and that their numbers would grow the closer one got to stair and the passage to Imladris, where the main fighting was. Is this right? But I defer to Nerindel on the exact location of the elves.

The arrow that was shot in Rauthain's last post was from the orcs watching the river for the rest of the rangers etc. Not from the fight proper which had appeared to me to be at the stairs.

Now the impression I got from Nerindel's post for Lespheria was that the stairs started off going up rather than down and were quite close to the Ford, so perhaps we should continue with that perspective in mind. Also Rivendell seemed quite close as well.

Does this work for y'all? I'm willing to follow whatever lead you want to take here, just let me know whatcha wanna do.

But now I'm not sure if we should wait for an Avanill post. Everdawn could insert one in at a later time if she wanted to. :(

[Ealasaide]

Oh, poor Everdawn! Thank you, Aredhel Ar-Feiniel, for stepping in as go-between. Do give Everdawn our best wishes for a speedy recovery. We will look forward to hearing from her through you until she is able to return. Again, many thanks for stepping in! Yes, please feel free to place her posts on the RPG thread for her.

Hilde - that sounds good. I am posting with Kaldir now. He and his group have just been intercepted by a patrol of Elves.

[Aredhel Ar-Feiniel]

I rang Everdawn, (her sister snuck her Mobile Phone in and it's switched on silent so so far we have been able to have contact without being caught by a nurse.) She said that she has about half a post written and will probably have the ohter half done by tomorrow, so what ill do is go to the hospital tomorrow afternoon and post it for her when I get home.

Oh yeah, Everdawn says thanks for letting me do her posts.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

It is wonderful of both of you, Aredhel Ar-Feiniel! Many thanks for helping.

[Ealasaide]

Ditto, everything Hilde said!:D

[Aredhel Ar-Feiniel]

Everdawn pretty much has the thing written but she is unsure or cant remember, (might be the drugs she's been given) whether Naiore is supposed to be on the other side of the river where Avanil and Rauthain are. Any help with this one?

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

She was last mentioned to be on the shore that Avanill and Rauthain are on, but I had written assuming that Naiore had crossed over at the Ford by now. Of course assumptions can be rather dangerous things! ;) Sorry, if I have confused anyone.

That being said, I do not think that Naiore would fall for Rauthain's trick. I'm sure that she has more pressing matters to take care of at the moment.

[Nerindel]

Oh my so much has happened,
Sorry to hear about Everdawns accident, I hope she is feeling better (I'm sure the drugs will help;) ) and will be up and about soon.

Aredhel Ar-Feiniel it's super you are able to post for her, I add my Thanks to that of my fellow writers. :D

Great post Ealasaide just one small thing, could you change the name of the elven captain as Fintar is with Amandur in the main battle and not with the flanking patrol. Thanks

Hilde, Aredhel Ar-Feiniel I am putting up a post that will have Amandur catch sight of the fleeing elf woman suggesting that she is indeed now on the same side of the river as the battle. :)

[Ealasaide]

Oops! My bad... I thought you had said in an earlier PM that Fintar was with the flanking patrol. I will make the change.

[Nerindel]

Thanks Ealasaide! :)

What do you think we should do about Barrold ferny, currently he is still knocked out by Anavill's sleeping draught!:eek:

I was getting the distinct impression that Elora wanted to have the villian killed by Naiore, but I think that oppertunity has passed, I was thinking that waking up and finding himself alone and hearing the battle ahead he would just slope of with his treasure (the mithral covers), cutting his losses so to speak!

I woud also be greatful if you think we should write something for the old villian, if someone else could write it as my hands are quite full at the moment.

[Ealasaide]

Yes, I was thinking the same thing regarding Barrold Ferney. Everdawn would be the most likely candidate to write the exit scene for Barrold since she, of all of us, has dealt most closely with his character. What do you say, Everdawn?

If she is not up to it - whch would be understandable - I will give it a shot.

[Aredhel Ar-Feiniel]

I couldnt ask her today becuase when I went up to see her she was sleeping. Ill try an see her tomorrow, either that or ill ring the ward later on.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Nerindel I didn't know if you ere working on anything for Dulrain, but wanted to let you know that I should have a post up for Gilly tonight that runs her up to the same time as Kaldir's post left off at. Basically, she follows Kaldir at the end.

[Ealasaide]

Thanks, Aredhel!

[Nerindel]

Hilde Dulrain is semiconcious and pretty incoherant at the moment, and I am trying to put together a post for Lespheria, Vanwe and Menecin bringing them to a point were the two healers will be ready to help tend the incoming wounded. so don't worry about posting for Gilly.;)



Ealasaide I was thinking that Dúlrain in this lucid state, fleeting in and out of conciousness would mutter his troubled thoughts, the tear between his heart and the love of a brother, so on so forth what do you think?

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Nerindel - Yes, I had thought that Dúlrain’s thoughts at the moment might be more like a dream state, but thought I’d better get the go ahead. :D

Which brings me to asking Ealasaide, please let me know if Gilly’s post passes muster. If not I will rework the ending to suit.
:p

[Ealasaide]

A marvelous post, Hilde! :D I offer a hearty round of applause! Don't change a thing. (Go Gilly!)

Nerindel - that sounds great! I will be looking forward to seeing your posts as soon as you can can get them up. :) I imagine the healers will shortly have quite a lot to do...

...which reminds me... poor Amandur! That was an excellent post, too. Deserving of its own hearty round of applause. :D

[Everdawn]

Sorry for the delay! Quick note to say, im back and thanks for the messages you are all sweeties. I was in hopsital longer than I had expected and ive been home for a few days but I have been unable to get to the computer.

And, yes, I will do Ferney for you guys, I know him well.

[Hilde Bracegirdle]

Glad to see you Everdawn! Hope that you are feeling a bit better.
(Can't help but wonder if you were riding Avanill's horse...:p)

Thanks to, for taking on Ferney. Is he by chance part of the fate mentioned in your post? ;)