A Ride to the Dark Side--Discussion Thread

[Bêthberry]

This is a short game to keep us occupied over the holidays. It should not last longer than one to two weeks.

Bethberry invites you to play her game...

Basic Storyline: Horses, some of the finest in all Rohan, have been stolen right out of the stable at The White Horse Inn. Ælfritha, who owns some of them and was taking them to new buyers, gathers a group of people at the Inn to track down the horse thieves and recapture the horses. However, these are no ordinary horse thieves; the story provides yet another example of the dark times that are come upon Rohan in the years just before The War of the Ring.

As a chase, the purpose of the story is simple: to recover the horses, deal the thieves a resounding defeat, and return with the animals to The White Horse. It is possible this aim could be itself defeated. And there will be deaths along the way.

Starting Location: The White Horse Inn, Edoras.

Likely destination: Perhaps we will be involved in a pursuit to Barad-Dur or elsewhere in Mordor, but eventually we will return to The White Horse.

Timeframes:

i) This game takes place in the Third Age at around year 3009.

ii) The story itself or plot covers no more than one month.

iii) This game requires a time commitment of one to two weeks from the game owner and the major players. This game is intended to provide some fun during the holiday break.

Characters:

The characters fall into two groups: the pursuers and the pursued or perpetrators.

The pursuers are Men (and women) of the Mark and travellers in The White Horse Inn, people who know themselves and their business. Horse stealing is not treated lightly in Rohan; this is a posse, although a posse resolute and determined rather than angry, vengeful, or vindictive.

Main pursuers: Ælfritha (Bethberry), the Merchant at the Inn (Anglachel). Other positions available are two Riders of Rohan and any interested patrons at The White Horse. Gamers who have not posted at The Horse are also welcome to submit characters on the discussion thread.

The pursued are the horses themselves and the thieves, Easterlings. Perpetrators are Minions of the Dark Lord, the Nazgul themselves, more Easterlings, the inevitable orcs I suppose.

Character types which would not belong are faint-hearted beauties, plucky but inexperienced lads and lasses, superpowered characters (except for the Nazgul). This isn't a Shire picnic.

The game owner will play Ælfritha. This game provides a backstory for her. She is a character who will soon join Gilthalion's and Thenamir's Rohan RPG ; her full character bio is posted on the Rohan RPG Discussion thread.

To join the game, post your character backstory/bio here and your first post, as a kind of audition. Help me understand what your character is doing during Ælfritha's first post. I'm partial to good writing which shows some thought, flair and creativity. I'll post acceptances here and then you can put your first post up on the game thread.

======

This game starts off with this post at The White Horse Inn:

A muffled neigh and many whinnies caught Ælfritha's ear in the midst of all the festivities at The White Horse. Despite the inky darkness of the sky and the biting cold, she grabbed a large lantern and exited promptly to the stables, where she found the main doors swinging open, the stalls empty, the stable boy, Heórrend, unconscious.

Dropping to her knees, she held him, wiped blood from the large dark welt at the back of his head, and shook him gently. Relief softened her shock as he returned to consciousness. He was one of the few people in Edoras with whom she had forged any kind of acquaintance beyond simple formalities and her concern was honestly felt. His club foot had rendered him unfit for duty as a Rider and often shunned by other more able-bodied men, but he was one of the most knowledgable horsemen in Edoras despite his young age.

"Men," he choked, "many men, Easterlings dressed as us. They wanted the horses." Ælfritha nodded silently, her face in the lantern light an impassive stone of fury.

Woozy and unstable, he climbed to his feet but fell against her. Cradling him, one of her arms around his shoulder, one of his around hers, Ælfritha led him back to the Inn, to Bethberry's quiet alcove, where the Innkeeper immediately rang for aid and a call to arms.

Sickened and fearful, Ælfritha strode into the main hall. "Good people of Rohan and guests of the Mark, we are abused and assaulted within our very gates. Our horses have been stolen, four of them mine, those of others as well. One of our own has been wounded. Who will join me in pursuit to recover the horses?"

===========

The game then moves to the first post in the RPG thread:

Dismay, confusion, anger, helplessness reigned. Many feet trod over the stable floor, the street outside, more with incomprehension than with clear purpose. Finally, a strong voice cried out over the milling crowd. It was Anglachel, calling them to order and purpose, with quick results. Then old Eomund spoke up.

"I am too old to ride with you in pursuit, but I know your family, Ælfritha, and would help you all I can. Take these two horses, Nithal and Doric. It looks like the thieves took the back alley and thence to the gate. The gatekeeper, too, has been attacked. He yet lies unconscious."

"I am appalled to hear that more harm is done. These are brutal thieves and arrogant in their daring. My family will remember your aid, Eomund," spoke a stern Ælfritha, her face full of stoic resolve.

Another voice spoke up, but of lighter timbre. It was Bethberry.

"I cannot leave the Inn, but I can offer you provisions. Here, saddle bags of biscuits, dried fruits, meats, canteens. Blankets also." Ælfritha nodded her thanks, wordlessly.

Other voices called out offering arms, ropes, spare tack, ointments and unguents for horse care, provisions. All of Edoras had been awakened, even the Golden Hall, which sent two Riders and four horses before dawn had creased the night sky. Ælfritha and Anglachel spoke quietly with them. Quickly, a posse was forming for the pursuit.

============

[ December 27, 2002: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Orofacion of the Vanyar]

May I join fair lady? smilies/smile.gif

My character:

Ulfeg: An easterling with a nasty sneer and equally unpleasant disposition. Recently his high ranking status was removed by the tribal elders, but he has plans to regain this status... in some way. Ulfeg is not very bright, but he is cunning in the ways of deceit. He's blinded by ambition, and has an affinity towards strong brew and stronger women.

Ulfeg is not ignorant, nor is he well educated, he's "street smart" and learned in the ways of the world. This gets him into a bit of trouble at times when attempting to go up against that which he knows nothing of.

He stands 5'11" with a rough mustache that reaches a few inches past his chin. He has long raven hair with brushes of gray here and there, which he ties in a large, thick ponytail. His love of brew shows in his belly, which protrudes a bit over his belt, but not by much. Ulfeg is hairy. Despite his girth, he can get up and go if needs be, but prefers to use his cunning and not his feet.

Should I post an audition? smilies/biggrin.gif

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Orofacion of the Vanyar ]

[Maikadilwen]

Name- Rhana
Age- 26
Description- 5'7" tall, long black hair and dark brown eyes. She is usually bruised from beatings, since she is "only a small woman among savage men"... Her clothes are dark and when it is cold, she's wearing a large fur-coat which she stole from a sleeping man. Missing part of her fourth finger (ring-finger) on her left hand.
Personality- A tempered, sadistic Easterling, with a tongue much too quick and sharp for her own good
Skills- A skilled thief and a good drinker and gambler

Background: She was born in a roving band of brigands and thieves and, since her mother died giving birth to her, was raised by the entire group which she refers to as "her fathers" since no one can tell exactly who of them is her real father. There are several possibilities.

She only carries one weapon, her long knife which she is not afraid to use if she gets in trouble (which she often does) especially not if people have their backs to her.

For hire to who pays the most, which is why she is now stealing horses in Rohan

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Bêthberry]

My dear Orofacion,

So good to see you!

Knowing your work and writing so well, I look forward keenly to Ulfeg joining the Ride to the Dark Side, but don't delay us the pleasure of reading your post, good sir. smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[Helkahothion]

Altough it will be sad to have to kill Maika I want to be a rider of Rohan. You sayd that two riders came on horses and brought 2 extra's. It will be an honor if I cauld be one of them.

name:Hading
age:Human (rider of Rohan)
outfit:He wears a chainmail that covers him from neck till knees,brown pant's, a light plate male on his body, kneecap's, arm caps, a bow and arrow's on his back, a sword and a combat knife.
description:He is send out from the Golden Hall's to aid Elfritha in her quest to get her horses back. He's quickluy angered when meeting horse thieves and has no intention's to let one of them life. On his horse Hunding he makes a lethal team shooting while moving and not holding back when melee combat occures.


Well here it is.

*sigh*

Man I never knew making a character would be that hard. Thank you Maika.

Anyway here it is Bb hope you like it. If some adjustments are to be made just tell me.

Greetings

Anuion
________
VAPORIZERS (http://vaporizer.org/reviews)

[Bêthberry]

I have already met Rhana, Maika and certainly look forward to knowing more of her. smilies/smile.gif Your place is saved and I look forward to your edit of the post.

I hope we can start in a day or so.

Bethberry

[Helkahothion]

Sorry about that double post people, sometimes my computer has a mind of it's own.
(In the meanwhile I accendently pressed enter.)

Anyway if you'd accept me Bb, let me know. Ill make my firsth post as soon as I can.

Oh and by the way I have forgotten to describe my character.

He has brown hair till his shoulders and blue eye's. He is about 1.84 meters high(sorry I don't know feet measures) and is normally buildt.(Not an increddible Hulk but not Steve Erkel either. Let's say something like Eomir)

I guess that's a wrap for Hading. Hope to here from you soon.

Greetings

Anuion

[ December 27, 2002: Message edited by: Helkahothion ]
________
UHWH (http://uhwh.com/)

[Bêthberry]

Hello there, Helkahothion,

Because you sent me a PM before you posted your character here, I have replied to you in PM. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Bethberry

[*Varda*]

Character

Name – Malienna
Age – 36
Personality - Hates injustice, but is a hasty person, and will jump to conclusions.
So while she’s working for good, it often causes many problems along the way. However, she does try and help friends in need, and is loyal.
Skills - Good rider – she has a horse named Naroch - handy with a sword. Being a woman and not of nobility, her parents were against her learning to fight, but she would sneak out and practise with her brothers and sisters. She is capable of defending herself and fighting.
Appearance – Long dark hair, usually tied back. Some chain mail, but she doesn’t like being encumbered by much armour. She has a sword, and two short knives by her side. She has a helmet, but often doesn’t wear it.

First Post

Malienna stood up as Aelfritha made the announcement. Her first fear was for her own horse, Naroch, until she remembered he had been stabled elsewhere for the night. That feeling of worry now over, she turned her thought to the matter in hand. Surely others would be feeling the worry of the loss of a horse, and her first task was to help them. Surely she could not sit in the Inn allowing the others to go, when she could help?

“Aelfritha, I will go with you. I will help in any way I can,” Malienna spoke to the woman, who merely nodded, and continued her preparations. Malienna slipped up to her room, placed a few items of clothing and herbs for healing in her bag, for they could be useful, though she had little skill. She put on her chainmail, but feeling selfconscious, she fastened another top over it. With her sword by her side, she went back downstairs.

She slipped outside and asked a stableboy to make ready her horse before they would leave. This done, she stepped back into the Inn to see who else was accompanying them on this quest.


~Varda

NB - Malienna is perfectly happy to die. Death scenes sound fun smilies/smile.gif

[ December 27, 2002: Message edited by: *Varda* ]

[VanimaEdhel]

Hmmm...so many women. I was planning on playing a woman as well, as I have been men for quite a few of my last RPG's. You don't mind one more woman, do you?

Name: Izrênna
Age: 29
Race: a woman of the Rohirrim
Gender: female
Physical Description: She is about 5'3" (pretty short), and fairly small in stature. She is not really "pretty" but has a cute, fiery look about her. She has fiery red hair that she keeps back in a braid and bright green eyes. She generally wears simple armor.
"Profession" (of sorts): Her small, light frame allows her to be very light on a horse's back, so she is used quite frequently to carry information.
Personality: Izrênna is quite perky and is very optimistic. She is not tremendously bright, but she tries, and can usually think her way out of situations without having to try to use what little strength she has. She is the type of person that always wears a smile on her face. She is not loud and boisterous, but is very visible when there is a conversation going on.
Brief History: She is the daughter of Karabar and Zamîn. Karabar was a Rider of the Mark. He was not very famous, but he was a loyal rider. Zamîn was a fiery woman, much like her daughter. She was the daughter of one of the captains of the Rohirrim. Izrênna always wanted to be an warrior of Rohan, but, as she was female and was not large, could not. She worked hard, however, to become a great rider and, because of her stature, was light on the horse's back. She had tremendous balance, as her center of gravity is fairly low. She is unmarried, although she hopes to find a mate someday.
Weapon: While she was training to ride, she also worked very hard on her bowmanship. She is pretty good with a bow and arrows, but, as she is small, she cannot do hand-to-hand combat.

First Post
Izrênna did not even think before she grabbed her small, light pack.

"I will come!" she shouted, barely hearing her voice over the uproar.

She imagined what Karabar, her father, would say of her offer. She would get a tremendous lecture when she arrived home, that was certain.

She found the person who had made the announcement.

"I have my own horse," she said, "And, as I am quite light, my horse can hold another if it is needed."

"Thank you for your offer," Ælfritha said, looking down at the small figure. Ælfritha was obviously busy with other things as well, so Izrênna slipped away.

She looked around, in the confusion, and decided to make her way toward the door.

"I will be outside," she said to the bustling Ælfritha as she quietly exited the Inn with her baggage.

She quietly moved in the shadows towards the stable. She led the grey horse out of his stall, and hefted the saddle onto his back. She quickly bridled the willing horse, and led him in front of the Inn, waiting for the group to assemble...

...

Is that okay? I can change it in any way if you so desire...

[Maikadilwen]

Awww, Vanima. Couldn't you at least have been an EVIL woman? smilies/wink.gif

I almost feel alone here... How come nobody wants to be the "enemy"?

[ December 27, 2002: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[VanimaEdhel]

I've been a bad guy a lot in my current RPG's too, actually...been fun...I get to die...I played Morluinien, an evil Elven witch, and her enchanted henchman, Bran...

I hope you don't mind, Bethberry, that I kind of set up Izrênna a bit...going back a few minutes, just to get her into the Inn and introduced so she didn't pop out of thin air into the Inn...

[Anglachel]

Oro, great to have a chance to write with you again. I think this time around I'll be able to take a more active role.

All, look forward to posting with each of you and I expect this journey to be a good experience for all involved.

Anglachel, being a well-traveled merchant, is quite familiar with the roads we are about to take. Hence, he will help to guide the posse once we depart the more familiar lands of Rohan. I'll develop this idea in my first post which should come shortly, as I imagine we will be departing soon.

Good luck!

[Orofacion of the Vanyar]

I almost feel alone here... How come nobody wants to be the "enemy"?

*Ahem* smilies/wink.gif

Bethberry,

I would of course be glad to add my post, but I would like to wait to see if someone would take up the leadership of the robbers. This way would be more constructive to my character's introduction I believe. Of course, if no one will take the role, then I'll post accordingly. Glad to be a part of the fun! smilies/smile.gif

Anglachel,

I as well look forward to the writing process. Here's to a intruiging game! Cheers

[ December 27, 2002: Message edited by: Orofacion of the Vanyar ]

[Maikadilwen]

I meant that in general terms, Oro. smilies/wink.gif So far it's only you and me.

Which leads me to your comment about leadership. Since I doubt this group would be lead by a woman AND taken into consideration that Rhana is just going for the money, I automatically stepped back.
And since you've stated that Ulfeg is NOT the leader, I'm sort of waiting for someone to take that part.

Another thing that would be really nice to know is, exactly how many people are we in that group?
It's pretty difficult to make a first post without knowing what I'm dealing with.

Oro (and any other "baddies" who might be joining), any ideas, suggestions, requests... Feel free to PM me any time. smilies/smile.gif

[ December 27, 2002: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Deorlin]

Bethberry,
I'd like to join your game. Here is my character:

Deorlin: rider of the Mark, newly arrived back in Rohan from a few months of travelling all over Middle Earth as messenger/emissary for King Theoden, trying to assess the various races/kingdoms/peoples reaction to the rumors of Sauron's rise in the East. He comes from a fairly important family of the Westfold, his father being Deorwine, First Knight to the King. He's about 20 and just your typical Rohirrim - a good rider and fighter, rough, simple, straightforward.

game role: Deorlin will have just arrived at the white horse, stopping briefly for a drink and to catch up on news of Rohan before he makes his way to Meduseld to give his reports to Theoden. His own horse was stabled at the inn and has been stolen. Even the pressing need to report to the king can't override his loyalty to his horse, so Deorlin is beside himself to get after the theives and recover him.

First Post:

Deorlin was just finishing his ale and wiping his mustache across the back of his hand when Aelfritha came running into the inn, carrying her grim news of the stolen horses. He was on his feet in an instant, making for the door. All was confusion as the inn patrons talked loudly amongst themselves or joined the stream of horse owners, and the merely curious, going to see which beasts were missing. Deorlin swore under his breath as he pushed his way out into the darkness of the yard and thence to the stables. If Frey was gone . . . he wouldn't even allow himself to finish the thought.

A few short strides brought him to the stall where he had tended to his friend no more than 30 minutes before. Like all Rohirrim, to Deorlin his horse was more than just a means of travel, or beast of burden - he was a friend, a true and loyal companion. More like a beloved family member than a four legged servant, or pet even. The bond formed between rider and mount was almost indescribable. In Frey, Deorlin would place his utmost trust, and there was no value in gold or jewels that could be placed on him. So without question, whenever they stopped for a respite from their journeying, Deorlin always tended to Frey's needs before his own. And he had left his friend here in this stall, with a bucket of fresh water and a manger of sweet smelling hay. And now . . .

Empty! Deorlin's heart pounded in his chest, his blood throbbing in his temples. No! This can not be! he thought wildly. I must get to Theoden.I must report on all that I have witnessed and heard these last few months. But, Frey . . . where have they taken him? What fate awaits him? I can not abandon him . . . but my duty to the king!

Torn between his two conflicting loyalties, Deorlin hesitated a mere moment before deciding what he must do. Resolutely he strode back to the inn, pushing his way through the noisy crowd. Standing tall, even amongst his fellow Rohirrim, he soon spotted Aelfritha and called out to her.

"Here am I, Deorlin, son of Deorwine, rider of the Mark, newly come back to our beloved land of Rohan. My horse, my companion, Frey, has been taken. If there is anyone who can lend me the use of a mount, I will ride with you and not return unless it is with my Frey, and the others which have been taken. Say you now, is there a horse I can borrow?"

While waiting for the woman's reply, the thought flashed through Deorlin's mind - these were dark days indeed when strangers came boldly into the very heart of Rohan, undetected, and stole good horse right out from under the noses of their people. The time was drawing near, very near, when all must look to their hearts and their sword arm to fight for what they held most dear, be it horse, family or country. there was no doubt in his own mind, the east was rising, and swiftly too!

[Bêthberry]

Writers on the Mark, get ready, set, go...

Varda, Malienna is welcome. Should it be her doom to die, we will see she dies a noble death.

Vanima, I will accept Izrênna as the final female, in part because she is Rohirrim and not your beloved elves, but on this condition: that you work on writing longer prose posts with less dialogue. You are ready to stretch yourself.

Deorlin, your character is most welcome. I would offer one suggestion, though: Are you sure you want to use your nick for your character's name?

Helkahothion, I have an alternative plan for you. Check your PMs

Maika and Oro, perhaps between the two of you in PM, you could 'create' the gang of horse thieves, carrying several secondary or minor characters.

Any future gamers must post characters as either the pursued or the perpetrators, or as males.

The game will start tomorrow, with a post from Anglachel. Feel free to make your first posts in any order, as long as they are appropriately interactive. Remember not to make any great claims for other gamer's characters that are not consistent with the owner's conception of the character.

Since this is a short game, feel free to make more than one post a day if you wish, although there is no rush to do so. Don't double post, though!

Regular characters and gamers for A Ride to the Dark Side are these (there will be cameo appearances by others):

Ælfritha (Bethberry)
The Merchant (Anglachel)
Malienna (Varda)
Izrênna (Vanima)
Deorlin (Deorlin)

Ulfeg (Orofacion)
Rhana (Maika)

One final note: Please remember to disable your signatures for all of your posts on the RPG thread. (You will have to do this for every post.)

Tomorrow, then...

Bethberry

[Sadbh]

Bethberry said:

Any future gamers must post characters either as the pursued or the perpertrators, or as males.

Just to clear this up- would it be alright if I were an Easterling female? I did post my bio and first post once, and than I edited it. (This is the second edit.)

I won't post my bio again in this post, but if its okay to play an Easterling female, which is the role I had in mind anyways, I'll write another message with the information and audition in it.

Sorry, thanks. smilies/redface.gif

[ December 28, 2002: Message edited by: Sadbh ]

[Garen LiLorian]

In all modesty, smilies/tongue.gif I'd like to take on the part of the Easterling leader. Let me know if you need anything different, or would like me in a different part, or whatever.

Name; Gormel
Race; Dunlending
Position; Leader of the horse theives
Bio; Gormel is a huge, hairy, bestial man. Not a lover of subtlety. He is not intelligent, but he knows what he likes and he takes it. Thus far, his strength has always carried him through his numerous mistakes, and he retains leadership of the band in the old-fashioned way; by killing anyone who challenges him.

I look forward to dying a horrible death, either at the hands of the Forgoil, or my own henchmen!

First post;

The air was thick and warm. The moon shone coldly down, reflecting off of the Forgoil's dwelling-places, and giving the whole scene an chill. Gormel bared his teeth in an animalistic smile as he loped through the streets of Edoras, confident in his band to quiet any disturbance his appearance might create. Indeed, a sharply indrawn breath betrayed the presence of one of the Strawheads, out for an evening stroll perhaps, but it was quickly followed by a spinning blade, and a choked sigh. Gormel never paused.

He reached the Inn. Golden light spilled from its windows, and the sounds of merrymaking floated forth into the night. Gormel paused at the entrance to the stable, and motioned with his free hand. Two figures, cloaked and hooded, slipped past him into the stable. Gormel allowed himself a noisy exhalation of breath then, although his sharp eyes never ceased roving the landscape. This was the most dangerous part of the operation, he knew. One discordant sound from the four-legs, and the cursed Northerners would stream from the building like a kicked anthill.

Rhana would be inside now, blindfolding the beasts and persuading them to come quietly, while Bhurthnin, his loyal second, stood by to dispatch any beast that caused trouble. Better to arrive a few horses short than be caught in the act, he thought, and showed his teeth in what could be taken for a smile, by a blind man. A blind man facing the wrong way, on a moonless night. Maybe.

A soft nicker brought his attention back where it belonged. Rhana was leading the horses out, silent as a wisp of cloud. She had swathed their hooves in cloth. Gormel nodded approvingly. For a foreign mercenary, and a woman to boot, she had her uses. Several other "uses" flickered through his dark mind, and he grinned again.

He caught Bhurthnin's eye, and raised one eyebrow. His second showed his blade, clean of blood but for a spot on the hilt, and Gormel nodded again, less happily. He was displeased that the man had merely clubbed whoever had been in the stable, and would deal with it later, but he couldn't waste time finishing the job properly now. The time for secrecy was nearly at an end, then it would be a race back across the Riddermark.

Gathering his band around him, he led them back through the streets of Edoras, out the gate, and down the hill into the night.

[Maikadilwen]

I don't mind you being the leader, Garen.
Ah, I knew Rhana would become popular in a group of men... smilies/tongue.gif But watch your back!

[Helkahothion]

I'm curious to know: what is a cameo apearence?
________
The Apprentice Forum (http://www.tv-gossip.com/apprentice/)

[Bêthberry]

Tremendous opening posts, Anglachel, Deorlin, and Varda! You have set a fine standard for quality, interest, and creativity.

Sadbh, given the times of our posts, I can understand that you were composing as I posted. Thus, I'll consider your female Easterling. Post her bio and first post here and I'll reply as soon as I can.

Garen Liborian, welcome indeed. A great first post. Leader of the horse thieves is fine with me and it appears to fit in with Oro's and Maika's plans as well. Make your first post on the game as soon as you can.

Helkahothion, I've sent you a PM and more will come on the cameo role. A cameo means posting for a limited time in a single, dramatic episode rather than as a long-run regular character.

And to clarify: Any future characters need to be male, either Easterling or Rohirrim; I would entertain arguments about dwarves and elves. Horses might also make for imaginative characters, of either gender. Or gelded. smilies/wink.gif

Bethberry

[Sadbh]

Name: Sadiya
Age: In her old community, it was considered tempting fate to count your years. She seems to be around her early to mid twenties.
Gender: Female
Appearence: She is dark of hair and eyes, though neither could be called 'black', exactly. Her skin is darkened from the sun, and she has two jade tatoos on her cheekbones. She is slim, from both malnutrition and a harsh lifestyle.
Personality: She is quiet but strong. She knows better than to complain. Harsh living conditions have made her thrifty and bright, which her husband often says is overly pessimistic and unnescesary.
Bio: She was born in a nomadic camp in the northern part of Rhun. Times were hard, and when she was around twenty, her family gave her as a wife to one of the men in the group for eight sacks of grain. She recently had her first child, a girl.

I know, I know. What a tremendously dramatic person I am! smilies/rolleyes.gif smilies/redface.gif

First Post-

Sadiya shrugged the tattered buckskin further up her shoulder, rubbing her hands together for warmth. In front of her, on the close cropped grass lay a tightly woven wicker basket. She reached down and cradled the basket gently staring at the small, soft, face inside. The child had been given a draught of herbs only hours before to give her sleep, lest one of the straw-heads from Edoras hear the cries of a child outside the city walls. She tucked another soft rag around the child's head, to supplement the lining of rabbit fur. It was a cold night, but a fire would have been immensley impratical, given the circumstances.

The woman knew that the band faced a long night and morning, and that they would travel hard to put distance between them and the straw heads. The only regret she had was for her child, for she had been raised a nomad, and was very used to travelling many, many hours with no food, fire, or rest.

The girl, sighing in her sleep, reached out a small fist and tugged at the end of her mother's braid. As Sadiya reached out to place her arm back into the warmth of the basketthe great gate groaned ever so faintly. She turned to see the group and stood, strapping the small cradle to her back. She helped coax the gate gently open. As the men and horses filtered from the city of Edoras, her husband grabbed her by the elbow and steered her away from the others.

"I hope the brat didn't cry?" He shook her as he spoke.

"No, she didn't wake at all!" Sadiya whispered fervently. Her throat pained her as she spoke. The man eyed her critically, but let go of her arm. As the group of horse thieves moved away from the city, she followed nervously, and cautiously. Her husband kept her at his side at all times, and she had learned by now that any wrong move would result in a cuff around the ear, or slap in the face. She sighed and hung her head, breath soft white in the cold air.

Yes, I am melodramatic, how did you know?

I hope this works. If you want a tougher person (which I hope you don't because my brain is still hurting from making this character) I can do that, too. Although this character is tough, just not ruthless.

O Well.

[Bêthberry]

Sadbh,

Sadiya will provide an intriguing perspective on the story. "tough but not ruthless" is a good description also. Welcome and start posting!

Bethberry

[Garen LiLorian]

Something unexpected has come up, and I have to go to Hong Kong for a day or two. I don't know whether I'll have a computer to post on or not while I'm there, but I thought I'd let everyone know.

Any adjustments you need to make are OK by me, including killing or taking control of my character.

If I don't post in the next day or two, I guess you can just count me out of this RPG.
Sorry for the inconvenience.

[Sadbh]

Sorry, I just realized something-
I'll have to make some changes to my first post because Garen LiLorian had posted that-

The air was thick and warm.

And I was talking about how cold it was. I'll post as soon as I can make the adjustments. Oops. smilies/rolleyes.gif

Just wondering, did the Easterlings arrive on horses as well?

[ December 29, 2002: Message edited by: Sadbh ]

[Bêthberry]

Actually, the weather is cold; winter season is upon Rohan, Sadbh, so we will change the other reference, to be consistent with the statements from The White Horse. Keep yours as it was. smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[VanimaEdhel]

*Salutes*

Will do, Bethberry. In keeping with the less dialogue, I changed my first post to keep the same idea, but to only have one piece of outward speech.

And sorry about so much dialogue. I write a lot of screenplays when I am bored, so it has just become habit to say "he says:" "she says:" and so on. I'll try to be better though!

And: I'm not really attached to Elves in particular, it's just that I use Menelduliniel and Estelarion for Inns and Parties as they are the first two characters I ever created. And, as they have a history with Gandalf, when he has RPG's, he sometimes asks me to bring them along. *Smiles, flattered*

[Bêthberry]

Nice work, Vanima!

Let's let Oro and Maika carry Garin's character Gormel for a bit. If he cannot return, then perhaps the game will have a natural casaulty.

And speaking of Oro and Maika, where are they? Have we lost them to PM planning? Tsk, tsk.

And just so everyone knows, Helkahotion, better known as Anurion, will be playing cameo roles for us along the way. smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[Amanaduial the archer]

Hmm, lala, Im had the same problem Bethberry, with finding bad guys; there seems to be a distinct lack of them recently! Therefore, I feel it my duty...Sadbh, melodrama, my dear friend, is the only way!

How about...

Name: Kane
Age: 19
Race: Easterling
Description: Kane is a more quiet member of the eaterling party and, unlike Dunlending, subteltly is a high point of his. The easterling is sneaky without appearing so (we are NOT talking Grima Wormtongue here!) and little love is lost between himself and Dunlending. He can hold himself well in a fight, with numerous throwing knives and small daggers concealed about his dark clothing; just so you know where you stand, a long sword hangs in a sheath on his back. He is not unfeeling though and watches all; he feels for Sadiya and wishes to be able to get closer to her.
Kane has dark skin, very tanned. His eyes are also dark, black almost and very direct.

Like it? I hope to be accepted. See Beth, I do play others than elves! smilies/smile.gif
lol
aman

[Maikadilwen]

Actually, I was waiting for Sadbh's post to be moved into the RPG, since I had planned to pick it up from there.

I haven't seen or heard anything from Oro, so I really don't know what's going on there.

[Sadbh]

Thanks,Bethberry. smilies/smile.gif

And my post is now in the main thread, hot off the key-board.

[Bêthberry]

What! Has Oro stood Rhana up, Maika? That cad. Don't wait for him, but post for your group as you see fit. smilies/smile.gif

Fair enough that you waited. Helkahothion will also be posting, but I wouldn't think your post will depend on his.

Aman, my dear, I am quite happy to see you disabuse me of my wrongful notions. smilies/smile.gif Some day I will return the favour and post for you as an elf. (Since Susan is playing with you, I didn't think you would want me along too.)Since you are the owner of a game at Rohan, I won't ask you to post your first post here; simply go ahead and join the game. Welcome and happy posting.

Once all our first posts are in, Æfritha or Anglachel will lead us out.

Beware, the journey could prove more dangerous than you yet expect.

Bethberry

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Maikadilwen]

Yeah, well it's definitely not the first time I make a guy disappear... smilies/wink.gif

[Sadbh]

Wow, Rhana, you're so polite. smilies/tongue.gif

Better watch it, or it might not be one of the Rohirrim that *ahem* does away with you. smilies/rolleyes.gif

Mean person! smilies/tongue.gif

[Bêthberry]

Sadbh, that is a very nice first post. I particularly like your description of the cold!

Now, for some directions. Here is a large map of Edoras to Barad-dûr, detailed (http://lotrmaps.middle-earth.us/set/r3t_07grm.jpg)

And here is the same area, but less detailed: less detailed map (http://lotrmaps.middle-earth.us/set/r3t_05third.jpg)

Using the speeds of travel given in Fonstad's Atlas of Middle Earth, I have calculated that it would take riders of Rohan horses over six days to ride to Barad-dûr. No horse can gallop nonstop for six to eight hours; one to two hours is the max, and then they need to walk or trot for several hours.

Rohan horses are faster than Dunlending horses, however, and I assume that includes Easterling horses also, so we have a slight edge.
As long as nothing delays us.

Bethberry

[ December 29, 2002: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Maikadilwen]

As long as nothing delays us.


Which shows exactly why I'm not the leader. With my skills in map-reading we would probably reach Barad-dur some time next year, game-time... smilies/rolleyes.gif

Yes Sadbh, isn't Rhana just lovable? smilies/tongue.gif

[ December 30, 2002: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Lugbúrz]

Bethberry,

I have at last been able to peruse both the threads.

I will be delighted to play a part, somewhat in accordance with your suggestions.

Hopefully this shall be the chance to enter into a covenant with the Barrow Downs, finally (with overdue apologies to Birdland). Thank you for the prospective opening. smilies/smile.gif

*bows*

All,

The Eye is upon this pernicious quest.

[Helkahothion]

Hm facinating quite facinating.

Since I will do a cameo and will be killed I would graceously give the honor to Maika.
*give's a little wink to Maika*
Hahaha Gues the love story isnn't going to happen and you will backstab me like you so cleverly read in the future. hmmm maybe your the new profecy jezus?.........But then again maybe not smilies/wink.gif

Greetings,

Anuion
________
List of suzuki motorcycles history (http://www.suzuki-tech.com/wiki/List_of_Suzuki_motorcycles)

[Maikadilwen]

The socalled "lovestory" you're refering to, only exists in your head Anuion! Like I told you.

Welcome aboard all you "new" people. Amy it's darn good to see you. smilies/smile.gif

[ December 30, 2002: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Thanks Maika. And great to be seeing you too. Havent played with you for a long while, something I have missed!

Some day I will return the favour and post for you as an elf.

Well, I will wait fo that with baited breath Bethberry! smilies/biggrin.gif Thanks for the acceptance. Abd of course I would accept both you and Susan! If you do rethink, I would still be glad to take you. (although, your elvish chances wouldnt come in here! smilies/biggrin.gif )

lol, ok Ill go post now,

aman

[Anglachel]

Great posts everyone! Hope you are all ready for the chase to begin.

Lugburz, greetings once again, though under a different name than before.

[VanimaEdhel]

Deorlin: Thank you for giving me a bit of tension to work with! I will talk to you further about plot possibilities in Private Message!

[Bêthberry]

The Rohirrim are in hot pursuit of the horses thieves. Have fun posting, but remember to keep the thieves ahead of the pursuers. We don't want to catch up to them too soon and shorten the fun.

The thieves should be by the fork of the Snowbourne and the Entwash by Wednesday night, camping just outside that forest. The thieves want to make fast time, and so should skirt the edge of the forest, but perhaps the pursuers might take a false lead and enter the forest, so they will not get to that fork of the two rivers until Thursday morning.

I hope this gives each group time to develop some interaction with the group members.

Very good to see you, Lugbúrz. smilies/smile.gif I'm sure everyone will be intrigued to have you aboard. I'll be PMing you!

Happy New Year, everyone.

Bethberry

[Lugbúrz]

I shall await your PM, Bethberry. Will be gone until the morrow.

Happy new year to one and all. smilies/smile.gif

[Estel the Descender]

BTW, you are welcome to join Ride to the Dark Side if you wish. -- Bethberry (PM)

Very well, I will be Béowulf, a young knight of Rohan (my elf character was in Mirkwood around TA 3009 so I cannot use him).

Name: Béowulf

Race: Man of Rohan

Date of Birth: 1 May TA 2991

Gender: Male

Height: 6’

Early History: Béowulf was the son of Ecgthéow (Ecgþéow: Swordthane), a knight of Éomund's éored and grandson to Thengel King by his third daughter. Ecgthéow was killed in 3002 along with Éomund in an ambush. Since then, he lived with his mother in Edoras and later served as a squire to Théoden King and was friend to Éomer. On his fourteenth birthday he was given Léod, a mearas, but Béowulf had known Léod and been his friend since the horse was born four years earlier. When he reached the age of sixteen (TA 3007), Béowulf decided to go to the place where his father died. Bringing his father’s sword, shield, and spear, Béowulf and Léod journeyed to Emyn Muil. There he wandered for almost a year, killing orcs whom he would encounter. But after having slain one hundred orcs, he grew weary and decided to return to Edoras. Unknown to him, his feats were told in the halls of Meduseld that upon his return he was granted a knighthood and became a member of Théodred’s éored.

Later History: TA 3019: fought in the Battles of Fords of Isen, 25 February and 2 March; 15 March, Battle of the Pelennor Fields; 25 March, Battle at the Black Gate.

Personality:

1. Emotions-positive – dynamic and active, must correct wrongs, curious, sincere at heart, appreciative of beauty, conscientious, idealistic.

Emotions-negative – won’ give up even when losing, impatient, has restless energy, remembers the negatives.

2. Work-positive – persistent and thorough, economical, moves quickly to action, volunteers for jobs.

Work-negative – hard to please, deep need for approval, may make rash decisions.

3. Friends-positive – makes friends easily but cautiously, thrives on compliments, apologises quickly, faithful and devoted, will listen to complaints, has compassion and concern.

Friends-negative – critical of others, dislikes those in opposition, judges others.

4. Psychological Profile – Cruelty, Some; Loyalty, Total; Passion, Some; Piety, High; Sanity, High; Selfishness, Some.

5. Weaknesses – Can be goaded into a fight even against better judgement.

Accoutrements: Father’s sword, lance, shield, mail coat, light helm, and jeweled dagger.

Appearance: Yellow-haired, lean and muscular, steel-blue eyes, ale-belly (just had to much ale sometimes).

Will my character do? And how soon can I begin posting?

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Estel the Descender ]

[Bêthberry]

A very clearly thoughout character, Estel the Descender! The only point I would hesitate over is the use of the name Beowulf itself, because of the OE poem. (In the RPG Resources thread in The Shire, I gave a link to lists of Old English names for men and women.) However, if you want to use it, that is your choice.

I had asked gamers to provide a first post here before accepting them, but since your character is so well-developed and since I know your work on your proposal (and since this is a short game which has already started), I won't wait to see the post here.

Most welcome you are! Join the game whenever you are able to start posting. The Rohirrim are already on the trail, so you will have to join them there.

All, Garen would like us to carry his character Gormel rather than kill him off and so I ask our horse thieves to do that.

By the way, where are our horse thieves? We are hot on your trail. Post on, me hearties.


Bethberry

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Im a little patchy on what the exact route is; has anyone got a map?

[Bêthberry]

Links to two maps are posted on the first page of the Discussion thread, Aman in my post dated December 29 at around 10 pm. I hope this helps.

Bethberry

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Thankyou Bethberry. Hmmm...not a great one for geography, I tend to get good marks by fluke... ah ha! Got where we are now.

Hmmm, is it wednesday night your time, or wednesday night my time? See, if its my time, its wednesday night already, so then should I make us arrive (or be about to arrive) at the fork now?

[Bêthberry]

Wednesday BarrowDowns' site time, which is Eastern Standard Time, North America, I believe was what I originally had in mind.

Maybe today is busy for everyone, and we should allow an extra day? What do you think, Aman? Plan to have the horse thieves at the fork of the two rivers by Thursday night, Jan 2, BD site time? The pursuers will then get there Friday morning, Jan 3, BD site time.

Is this a better scenario? Will it give more opportunity for some interactive posts? Let me know. (Plot thickens and all that. smilies/wink.gif )

Bethberry

[Amanaduial the archer]

Sure. I think thats about +6 hours time difference.

[piosenniel]

Deorlin

He turned to Anglachel and said "If I recall rightly, there is a ford across the river some ten leagues or so hence. Think you the theives will make for that, or continue on along the northern bank?

Can you clarify this for me? You say about 30 miles (ten leagues) from Edoras there is a ford across the Snowbourne. The Easterlings are on the northern bank of the river - why would they think of crossing it and where would they have gone if they did?

Amanaduial

"What is our route?" Rhana continued.
"Snowbourne." He grunted in reply. "We will cross the ford."

So, the Easterlings are crossing south across the River Snowbourne? And what are they heading for - the River Entwash?

~ An interested reader, trying to understand the thoughts of the characters.

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Maikadilwen]

I haven't been home for a couple of days but I'm here now and (apart from a slight hang-over smilies/wink.gif smilies/tongue.gif ) I'm trying to figure something out.

Uhm... About Aman's post... I may be wrong but I thought that we baddies had our own horses. It's a pretty long trip from Mordor to Rohan on foot. Bethberry?

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Deorlin]

Pio (and all)

Sorry for any confusion! I guess my geography is about as good as Aman's. I wasn't quite sure when we set out if the thieves were travelling along the north or south shore of the river. So I guessd the north shore, as there was some comment about whether they would go north into the forest. I then also thought that the posse didn't know for sure if the theives were easterlings, just that they had set out in an easterly direction, so we didn't know exactly where they would be heading. And there was also some talk of the great western road as being the quickest, although for them the more dangerous ruoute, east.So Deorlin's comment was just kind of a general surmising as to what the thieves were up to, and to tell the truth, was written by me in order to have some interaction with Anglachel and let him do some "I know this area" stuff. smilies/rolleyes.gif smilies/rolleyes.gif I hope this helps clarify my disoreinted thought process. I can edit if that would help explain things better in the story itself?

[Bêthberry]

Wow! We've got a reader! Thanks for catching that, Pio. My geography is also not reliable; my Fonstad is beside me whenever I post.

If the thieves are on the north side of the Snowbourne, they will need to ford to the south side, so they can skirt the forest and camp at the fork of the Entwash. Getting there by Thursday Jan 2 real time is fine--a day's delay does not hurt due to the holiday.

You are right, Maika, that the thieves should have horses. On foot they would be caught too quickly. Or they can use some of the stolen ones.

Aman, that's a tremendous effort pulling everything together. Check my comments above for details.

All, I am very busy with a dinner party and house quests, so I won't be back on until very late tonight, BD site time.

Bethberry

[piosenniel]

The Snowbourne River runs directly East from Edoras to the Entwash River. The last ten leagues (30 miles) of it, before it joins the Entwash, is through an unnamed forested area.

So, now I see that the the route is to cross the Snowbourne from the North at the ford mentioned, travel past the forest in a southeast direction, making for the place where the Entwash breaks into its many mouths that flow east to join the Anduin.

That direct southeast route, from the ford to the fork of the Entwash, will be about 90 miles.

Where are you going from there?

[Maikadilwen]

I have absolutely no idea where we are. But then again, I'm the person who can almost get lost in my own apartment.
Could somebody please try to tell me where we are? Maybe in a PM? smilies/frown.gif

[VanimaEdhel]

Maika: sorry, but when we did orienteering in my school, I got lost...literally...so don't trust me.

General comment to anyone and no one: As there are so many "SAVE"'s, I did a fairly ambiguous post in regards to where we are, as I do not know where the previous posts will take our company.

All: Happy New Year!

[Orofacion of the Vanyar]

*A tall man slips in from the backdoor*

So sorry I'm late, Bethberry I've replied to your PM. I've been having computer problems as of late, though they are now amended (I hope! smilies/smile.gif ). I've read up on what yall have got so far and am delighted to see such a wonderful cast.

Horse Theives,

I've tried to fit my character in better, seeing as how me just appearing in the group out of nowhere would seem a bit odd. I hope this works for everyone.

[Maikadilwen]

Sounds fine, Oro. I've removed your name from my earlier post to make everything fit. smilies/smile.gif

[Airerûthiel]

This is a biography for my character Maikadurion:

Name: Maikadurion (My-ka-du-ri-on)

DOB: TA 31 October 2994 in Ithilien (so he's about 15 in this story)

Race: A real mixture - his mother was a Mirkwood Elf, but his father had a mix of Gondorian and Rohirrim blood

Family: Mother Orowethwen (deceased); father Théomer (deceased); aunt, uncle and three cousins, of the house of Rocconinquë (deceased); younger twin brother Laitalathion (unknown to Maikadurion); cousin, Airerûthiel of the Rocconinquë (unknown to Maikadurion)

Appearance: Dresses like a Ranger of Ithilien; shoulder-length red-gold hair; dark blue eyes; fairly tall

Weapon: Lisran, one of his father's swords

Personality: Maikadurion is loyal yet stubborn, and can be intensely sarcastic. He is self-reliant and prefers solitude to company. Although he will defend his friends and those weaker than himself to the death, he is distrustful of strangers and does not make alliances easily.

He rides an exceptionally fast silver-grey horse named Formenelen, and possesses the gift of being able to communicate with horses.

Bio:
TA 4 July 2995 - Théomer is slain by wargs whilst out on patrol in Ithilien. Although she has sickened and is weak, Orowethwen takes her sons on a two-year trek across Gondor to find a haven for them.
TA 1 September 2997 - Orowethwen, Maikadurion and Laitalathion eventually settle in the house of the Rocconinquë with Orowethwen's sister and her family.
TA 3 January 2999 - Orowethwen eventually dies of grief at her husband's death. Maikadurion and Laitalathion are now orphans.
TA 1 March 3003 - Maikadurion and Laitalathion run away west to learn of their mother's people.
TA 21 June 3005 - Maikadurion and Laitalathion, having visited the location of many Elvish dwellings, return east to Gondor.
TA 6 August 3005 - Maikadurion and Laitalathion reach the border of Gondor with Rohan, but are barred from entry as their father is accused of treason against the stewards. The brothers quarrel over what to do next and Laitalathion returns west. Maikadurion seeks work in Rohan.
TA 1 December 3008 - Maikadurion finds work at the inn of the White Horse in Edoras.

~*~*~*~*~

Maikadurion's first post (ie what he is doing in Ælfritha's first post) will be posted here asap!

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: Airerûthiel ]

[Airerûthiel]

This is Maikadurion's first post (what he is doing during Ælfritha's first post):

~*~*~*~*~

Maikadurion listened intently at this talk of stolen horses. He knew that such treachery was frowned upon intensely in Rohan, and that to have a horse stolen in the land of the horse-lords was like parting a mother from her babe. Despite the comfortable routine he had got himself into working at the inn of the White Horse, in his heart he still yearned to break his vow and seek adventure in Middle-earth once more.

Then suddenly his thoughts leapt outside to the stable. "Formenelen," he whispered, and his heartbeat quickened, pounding in his ears like raindrops onto a roof of Edoras during a downpour. If his mother's horse had been taken...no, it would be too great a blow to his memory. The image of her pale face with its long hair as golden as oak leaves in autumn and the ice-blue eyes as cold as the first spring morn had all but faded from the memory of nine years, when he saw her lying in state in the Great Hall of his uncle.

As the throng of people poured forward from the door of the inn like a river in flood, he slipped in among them as silently and quickly as a shadow or a breath of wind, noticed by none, and made his way across the cobbled courtyard to the stables.

The half-Elf quieted the horses in Rohirric and the tongue of his Elven kin, and they were still - he had possessed the gift prized so highly by Men of the Riddermark for as long as he could remember. Going through each one of the remaining beautiful beasts, whose eyes had grown in their heads to twice their size and were immersed in a liquid trauma that gazed out pleadingly at him, Maikadurion reached the stall of the North Star. He closed his eyes as his delicate fingers ran themselves over the engraved brass plate on the stall door, and then slowly opened them as he stood up, already knowing what it was he would find there.

It was as empty as a tombstone that waits with yawning open mouth, hungry for its eternal meal of a coffin and a life.

"Then I know what I must do," he said to himself in a saddened and sombre tone, his feet as heavy as the helm with the treacherous path laid before them. "I have no choice but to leave, to return to my old life...to go back to what appears to be my destiny."

He walked back into the inn alongside the stragglers who offered only provisions to the troupe of riders, and then walked towards the bar.

"Drink this, my friend." Maikadurion glanced up to see Bethberry's kindly face as she took in his own expression. "I am surprised you are not on this side of the bar; after all, you seemed more content there than you do when we are divided by this wooden barricade."

"Good lady Bethberry, I have a boon to ask of you," said Maikadurion, opening his mouth to continue with his request. But he got no further; the innkeeper's sorrowful half-smile told him all he needed to know.

"You were not destined for the simple life, my friend," she replied. "Although for a short time you were content to work for your living, I see that in your heart your desire is to taste adventure all your days in Middle-earth. And maybe one day our paths will cross again. Go now, and fulfil your desires."

Maikadurion kept a pack behind the bar, filled with everything he would need should he choose to leave Edoras for the unknown, and he gratefully took this now from Bethberry. "You have been good to me, and I owe you a great debt. I leave you with my promise that one day I will return to the White Horse."

"And I shall hold your faith to that promise," replied the innkeeper. "You are strong and brave, and you leave this place with honour, having proved your worth. Go now; without horses to spare and your own mount taken, it will be a long journey on foot, even for the son of Elves and Men."

[*Varda*]

Finally got away from relatives...

I feel so hypocritical insulting Izrenna's size, when I'm no taller than 5'3 in real life smilies/rolleyes.gif

When abouts will the RP finish, by the way? Just so I have some idea of time.

~Varda

[Bêthberry]

Airerûthiel, welcome to the game! If it is okay with you, I will add your first post to one of mine, so that it is in proper chronological order, with your name given. I look forward to seeing more of your posts.

Deorlin,

In your post of Dec 30, 2:08, your character mentions The Shire. Is this knowledge that a Man of the Mark would have or should have at this time? Careful, you do not know who might take umbrage at such indiscretion. I pass on this warning from one who would make you rue it.

Varda and Everyone ,

The game should finish sometime next week, between the 8th and the 11th, unless we get sidetracked.

I have made a SAVE post for the horse thieves, to get them to the Entwash. With Garin away, it is hard for you to regroup. If anyone of the thieves wants to do this post, send it to me via PM and I will add it here, under your name, or I will write, as a third person narrator, the post myself.

PLEASE remember to disable your signatures when you post. Some of the posts need to be edited for this.

Keep a wary eye out ...

Bethberry

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Lugbúrz]

I'm rather unfamiliar with posts being saved for later but am reasonably confident that my post will not hamper the role-playing. I would rather have had it that the characters do not read my post until they add onto the missing ones.

Shall we just say 'the Jury must disregard what has been said and it be stricken off the record'?

Except that it is very much on the record. smilies/smile.gif

[Airerûthiel]

Bethberry, is it necessary for me to put Maikadurion's first post in The White Horse to make it fit in with the RPG there, or do I just leave it here?

I just thought I should consider providing a reason for him going on the quest instead of just disappearing...

[Bêthberry]

Because this story is linked to The White Horse, Airerûthiel, you needn't worry about lack of continuity there. Your post is good and belongs here, as part of the preparations. Is this okay?

Bethberry

[Airerûthiel]

Thanks for clearing that up, Bethberry.

[Bêthberry]

Writers of the Mark, may I now introduce you to one of our cameo writers, who has added a little bit of excitement to our story, as some of us had planned, The Barrow Wight.

Welcome indeed, and very nicely done, Barrow Wight.

Bethberry

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Maikadilwen]

As if we weren't few enough... smilies/wink.gif

Well done, Mr. Wight, though I think I better go check on Rhana's fingers. She may be down to 8 now. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Gryphon Hall]

Uhmmmmm... I want to be one of the pursuers, but I know I come in a bit late. smilies/biggrin.gif I've included my character bio and my first post. I hope it works.

Name: Corrin the Dwarf

Race: Durin's folk

Date of Birth: Please see timeline below

Gender: Male

History: Corrin's prose history is too long at this point, and I haven't really worked out some of the finer details, so I am using the format of Appendix B -- Tale of Years in the timeline below

Timeline
TA 2835 - Corrin, of the House of Durin, born in the Ered Luin. His grandfather was a burned dwarf, his grandmother belonged to the youngest dwarf house.
TA 2910 - Corrin accompanies small band of dwarves looking for work in Eriador
TA 2911 - Corrin reaches Dunland
TA 2913 - Corrin reaches the Iron Hills
TA 2920 - Corrin marries Dáie, kinswoman of Dáin of the Iron Hills
TA 2935 - Darrin, son of Corrin born
TA 2939 - Krís, daughter of Corrin, born
TA 2941 - Participated in the Battle of the Five Armies as one of Dáin's Grim Five Hundred.
TA 2944 - Helps rebuild Erebor and Dale. His family transfers from the Iron Hills to Erebor.
TA 2945-2970 - Travels through Lake Town, Dorwinion, Rhovanion and Rohan on business trips, later bringing Darrin with him
TA 2989 - Accompanies Balin on his journey to Moria, leaving his wife and children, but turns west at the High Pass, with the intent of gathering more dwarves from the Ered Luin for Balin in Moria
TA 2990 - After tarrying along the way, making a stop-over at Bree, finally reaches the Ered Luin but found no dwarves willing to accompany him. Makes long travel back to Khazad-dûm. Corrin cannot find the West (Hollin) Gate, so he goes over Redhorn Pass.
TA 2991 - Reaches Mirrormere and finds the Dimrill Gate overrun with orcs, but watches great dwarf counter-attack. Joins the fray. Stays with Balin for a while, before returning to Erebor by skiriting north of Mirkwood. Last ever seen of Balin and Company.
TA 2992 - Corrin establishes his own dwarven mansion, Gryphon Hall, in Erebor on the South-eastern spar of the Lonely Mountain. Starts adopting orphan children of Dale and apprenticing them. Gets rich from percentages given him by grateful humans. Darrin starts business trips of his own.
TA 2993-3009 - Business as usual, especially with humans.
TA 3009 - "Ride to the Dark Side"


Personality: Friendly dwarf with a good sense of humor, loves making a buck and hoarding riches, but not very greedy and can be very generous with friends or pitiable humans. Loves experimenting with metals and making different types of weapons and armor. Like most dwarves, can walk (not run, mind you) on and on without sleeping, but loves to sleep as much as he can anyway. Not fond of quarreling but loves to join a just fray. Loves to eat, loves to drink, loves to smoke. Loves to travel. Laughs too loudly sometimes when he's drunk. Loves the rain, but hates getting soaked. That's it for now.

Gear: cart with forge, smithy and grindstone, various swords, axes and hatchets (all for sale at reasonable prices); travelling cloak and hood, dwarven armor (hauberk, helmet, mail hose. . . the works), ivory pipe and bag of Tobold pipeweed.

Physical description: Four feet, eight inches hight, long forked and braided beard, brown hair, dressed in brown and green, leather boots with iron greaves, jewel-studded leather belt with gold buckle (engraved on it is the symbol of his hall, as well as some runes in the mode of Erebor)

First post:

It has been a tiring but deeply satisfying few months for the dwarf Corrin. Up and down Dunland, and through the homesteads of Rohan, now enjoying some warm ale and good pipeweed in the White Horse. And such good ale as he hadn't had in a long time, served by such a nice innkeeper, too. Being in the middle of Edoras, he didn't even feel the need to wear his armor; just normal clothes tonight, thank you very much. Aaaaah, yes, the wonderful fact of having sold almost all his wares and enjoying the profits. Nothing can spoil this, thought Corrin.

A woman suddenly burst in and she was obviously distressed. 'Good people of Rohan and guests of the Mark,' she began, 'we are abused and assaulted within our very gates. Our horses have been stolen, four of them mine, those of others as well. One of our own has been wounded. Who will join me in pursuit to recover the horses?' Oh, bother! thought Corrin, And it was turning out to be such a pleasant night, too. He turned to a gaping lad seated beside him, and said, '`Tis a bad thing to steal any of the horses of Rohirrim, you know.'

The lad turned toward him and looked even more surprised. Corrin paid no heed, but added, 'Yes, awful bad thing. Might as well steal one of their women or babies, it doesn't matter.' As he said this thing about women and babies, he thought of his own wife and children, and began to feel hot. 'The Horse-lords will go after 'em like nothing and make 'em pay,' he said, beginning to feel really riled up. 'Maybe,' Corrin added, 'maybe I go with them and test this out.' He was fingering his axe, then looked at the lad he was talking to, but he was gone.

He looked around, making sure that the silly kid didn't just sneak away, but the lad, well, what he thought was a lad was really nowhere in sight. 'Corrin, my boy,' said the dwarf to himself, '`tis a shame that you can no longer hold your liquor, talking to thin air like that.' The initial vengeful reaction gone, he greedily gulped his ale. 'But where's the fun if such good drink doesn't make you imagine stuff awhiles.' He raised his tankard to Bethberry, who smiled back.

By now, others were volunteering to go after the horse thieves and there was a general uproar. Some of the customers were suddenly leaving for the stables, probably to see if at least their horses were spared and left behind. Corrin sighed. 'I guess I can go on one free adventure,' he muttered softly to himself. 'Darrin is still on business and Dáie thinks I shall be returning by spring.' Quickly counting and estimating, he decided to go along with the posse. 'They will need a stout dwarf. Yes, they will.' Basking in his own heroism, and all the ale beginning to go to his head, he went up to his room without informing Bethberry or anyone that he was going. By the time he lay in bed, he had forgotten about the horses and the muster of the posse.

And he snored loudly, too, as only a dwarf can.

The next day, the sun was just about to rise, the posse that left some time before had already followed the trail, and Corrin the dwarf suddenly woke up with a start. He was feeling that he needed to do something important, very important, but he can't remember what.

'Breakfast!' he roared. 'I shall remember when I've had my breakfast.' As was his custom, he started preparing as if to leave. He wore his metal hose, his hauberk, his greaves, but not his helmet. All bundles neatly packed, ready to be heaved on his back, but in the meantime left in his room. He was beginning to feel good again and had forgotten about the posse. 'Tra-la-la-la-la,' he sang on his way down, oblivious to the others who may be sleeping. Hmmmmm... wait a minute, some of the doors are open.

The dining area was, understandably, quiet and almost empty of people, save Bethberry. She seems to have had quite a night, he thought. Looks like she hasn't slept a wink.

'Aaahh! My good innkeeper! Have you got any vittles for a hungry dwarf?' He suddenly felt the nagging doubt in his mind again, that something very important to do. Corrin was suddenly quiet and thoughtful as he went back to the exact same seat he was in the night before. Bethberry quickly brought some food over, as well as ale; too quickly, it seems. The food usually took time to cook. This was still warm. Corrin looked up and instinctly raised his tankard. Bethberry smiled back. He looked to where the gaping lad sat the night before.

And suddenly it all memory of the night before hit him so hard that he actually fell out of his chair. 'Foolish dwarf! There is no time for dilly-dallying!' He motioned to Bethberry, and roared, 'Ho! Inkeeper! Some provisions, if you please, for a week or two of hot pursuit.' Corrin's voice was shrill with dismay and hurry; he hated being left behind for any reason. 'Weapons! I need my weapons!' He ran back up and rummaged through his pack, taking one two-handed battle-axe, two smaller throwing axes, and finally his short broad sword and buckler shield.

Having these, he ran out of the door. And then ran back in. 'Of all the bother in this world!' he exclaimed as he shoved his helm on. He ran down the steps, and then fell down the rest of the way. He rolled back into a standing position and then faced Bethberry, whose hands were on her hips.

'Please, tell me where they went! I can catch up with them, dwarves need no sleep and I, we, can march day and night!' He took a step closer, his voice urgent and pleading. 'They will have to rest soon; I can catch up with them! I can! Please, tell me where they went and let me go, too.'
=============================================
I really hope this works out. smilies/biggrin.gif Sorry for the very long post. Didn't realize it was already this long, but I dare not edit anything out anymore. smilies/frown.gif Sorry.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Gryphon Hall ]

[Bêthberry]

Lovely post, Gryphon Hall and a thoughtful, imaginative character. Welcome to the game.

I can add this to the Ride game, after one of my posts, to fit in chronologically, with the notation that it is yours. Okay with you?

Feel free to ride hastily to catch up. smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[Sadbh]

*is frozen for a minute*

Oh well, didn't really need that character anyway... smilies/tongue.gif

But it was an excellent post, Barrow Wight.

[Estel the Descender]

I have to place my first post here because if I added it to the RPG proper it might seem out of place. But this post will continue into the post I will be placing in the RPG.

=============================================

A rider rode up Edoras on his way to Meduseld with disturbing news to Théoden King: Théodred's company had discovered the presence of Easterlings on the east bank of the Entwash. The rider had riden full speed along the road from the Entwade all night and had just arrived dawn. Leaving all his weapons by the doorway, he hurriedly walked up to the dais where the king sat. Théoden seemed to be awake for some time now. The riser bowed low.

'Arise, Béowulf sister-son,' said the king, 'What news from my son?'

'My king,' began Béowulf, 'I regret to inform you of the presence of strangers upon the east bank of Entwash. . .'

'Easterlings?' said Théoden.

'Aye, my liege,' answered Béowulf, 'But how did you know?'

'A bunch of thieves stole horses from the stables of the White Horse ere ye came,' said the king, 'Already a posse has gone in pursuit of the robbers.'

'My liege,' stammered Béowulf, 'I ask leave to overtake the posee so that I may join the chase. I fear that my news hath come too late.'

'It is well, my son,' said Théoden, 'ye have leave. But refresh yourself first ere ye continue on this journey, for I deem that ye have not eaten supper.

.............................................

After eating his breakfast, Béowulf rearmed himself and mounted Léod and started to ride down Edoras. He was delayed from going out the gate, however, by a cart which was driven by a dwarf.

'Out-of-the-way-halfling!' shouted Béowulf, 'I am already quite delayed and need no further delaying!'

Corrin shuddered with rage and shouted back, 'Halfling?! HALFLING?! You will regret your words, horse-master, but I will not dally with you now, for I too am in a hurry: I have thieves to catch. But once I have caught them, I WILL DEAL WITH YOU, YOU PALE-FACE!'

'Indeed,' retorted Béowulf, 'ever has a dwarf been so-o-o protective of his own property. . .'

'NOT MY OWN, BUT YOURS!' cried the dwarf, 'Horses were stolen from the White Horse where I was a guest and now I am on my way to overtake and aid the posse that was formed to catch the thieves!' Then added Corrin in a whisper, 'Ungrateful whippersnapper. . .'

Béowulf's eyes flew wide when he heard this and he answered, 'My apologies, sir dwarf, for speaking rashly. I did not know that you were going out of your way to help us. I too am on my way to join the posse. I know that by mine actions I deserve your scorn, but since we have the same errand, let us travel together now and swiftly ere the thieves and the posse get too far ahead.'

'Well, I suppose that we have to hurry,' answered the dwarf, 'But once we have done with this business, I will deal with you!'

'Fair enough,' said Béowulf, 'Though I already repent my harsh words earlier.'

Both rider and dwarf rode out the gates and turned east after passing by the barrows, following the path of the Snowbourne.

=============================================

The post continues in the RPG. I hope that neither my character nor Corrin are too late to join the fray.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Estel the Descender ]

[VanimaEdhel]

Deorlin: Our posts don't really conflict. I can't see how to change it to make them fit any better unless I just deleted mine.

[Gryphon Hall]

smilies/biggrin.gif
Bethberry--
Lovely post, Gryphon Hall and a thoughtful, imaginative character. Welcome to the game.

Oh, thank you! smilies/smile.gif Thank you! smilies/biggrin.gif It took me a long time to fix up Corrin's timeline and all that, so thank you.

Bethberry--
I can add this to the Ride game, after one of my posts, to fit in chronologically, with the notation that it is yours. Okay with you?

Okay? Why, I am delighted, my dear inn-keeper!

smilies/biggrin.gif Hello again, Estel smilies/biggrin.gif Meneg Suilaid, or something. Thank you once again for your interest in one of my characters, and I love the way you handled their first meeting. Corrin wasn't driving a cart, though. He was running. He left most of his belongings in his room in The White Horse and his cart parked in front, hopefully to be taken care of by the inn-keeper Bethberry. smilies/wink.gif smilies/wink.gif

Oi, bok! Kelan ba lalabas 'yung proposal mo, ha?

[Sadbh]

Orofacion, not to be picky, but I didn't follow the wargs into the woods. Acording to Barrow Wight:

Sadiya smartly chose not to follow.

Wait a second... don't I get a say in what my character does? smilies/biggrin.gif (Just kidding)

I'm not trying to be trouble, I'm just a bit confused. That's all... smilies/redface.gif

[Bêthberry]

Yes, you do get to control your character, Sadbh. Now you are free to pick the man your character would choose. smilies/wink.gif

Everyone,

Please remember to pay careful attention to where all the characters are when your character interact with them in your posts. Read all the posts carefully. This is tricky because there are two "plot" lines. And we are having some complications and obstacles just to spice up the fun a bit. smilies/smile.gif

Oro, could you make that edit to correct for Sadiya's position? Thanks.

And Deorlin, you have abandoned your charges. Are you sure this is a good idea?

Helkahothion, do you have any other posts to make?

Your friendly Rohan backstage conspirator,
Bethberry

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Estel the Descender]

Hello Gryphon Hall,

Thank you once again for your interest in one of my characters, and I love the way you handled their first meeting. Corrin wasn't driving a cart, though. He was running. He left most of his belongings in his room in The White Horse and his cart parked in front, hopefully to be taken care of by the inn-keeper Bethberry.

smilies/rolleyes.gif Ok-ay. . . I'm editing the first and last paragraphs of the second part of my post:

After eating his breakfast, Béowulf rearmed himself and mounted Léod and started to ride down Edoras. He was delayed from going out the gate, however, when a dwarf suddenly cut in front of Léod.

. . .

Both rider and dwarf went out the gates and turned east after passing by the barrows and crossing the Snowbourne Bridge, following the path of the Snowbourne. The Rider rode while the dwarf ran.

I hope this would do. smilies/biggrin.gif

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Estel the Descender ]

[piosenniel]

*licks lips*

Tassssty . . . fressssh . . . just the way we like them . . .

[Bêthberry]

And another complicating cameo performance, this time by pio. Drat you, writer, you have hauled off my supplies as well! Very nicely done, and thank you, pio.

Deorlin, you are merely injured, of course, and can, like movie heroes, survive a dunking, should you wish. Helkahothion, as we planned, Hading has gone to a noble end. PM me if you wish to do another cameo later in the game, next week.

Well, we have much to do to regroup and recover, don't we?

Bethberry

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[piosenniel]

I'm sure if you traipsed a little way into the forest, you could find at least some of your supplies scattered about. smilies/wink.gif

[Bêthberry]

Cruel taskmaster, that Wharg! smilies/wink.gif heehee, Pio.

All,

Maika has asked, quite rightly, who or what other cameos are coming, since she and Aman might be hatching some of their own plans. Kiara and Lugbûrz are our other cameo players. I have onl a vague idea what they are doing and the extent of their coordination, if any. As for who they are playing... well, that might give away too much. smilies/wink.gif

They are enthusiastic, though, and so I thought I would check with the rest of you about how many complications/ delays/ side actions you want. This was intended as a short--one to two week game--and many of you 'signed on' for that limited time. Do you want more complications? That could extend the RL time of the game. There is no difficulty with this happening, since the length of a game is determined by the problem and the nature of its solution (recover the horses if possible) rather than by any arbitrary RL time limit, but I don't know how many of you would like a slightly longer game. Let me know here, and then our cameo complicators can determine just how many tricks to have up their sleeves. And I can see if I can work in another idea I have. smilies/wink.gif

*wrings hands salaciously and cackles conspiratorially*

Bethberry

[Amanaduial the archer]

Yeah, is Garen coming back? plot plot, plottity, plottity plot...

Ooh, salaciously, thats a nice word...

[Bêthberry]

If Garen is not able to return within a day or two, Aman, I would think you could do with Gormel as you will, but watch for his return a bit longer before anything drastic happens to his character.

A quick note on the appended first posts:

Airerûthiel and Gryphon Hall, your posts have been added to my post of December 29/02 at 3:54 pm.

Estel the Descender, there was an 'empty' post which was not needed for a thieves' post, so I added your first post to it, dated, January 2 at 7:35 pm.

Bethberry

[Orofacion of the Vanyar]

Consider them changed. So sorry about that, I seemed to be developing a bit of dislexia. Try not I'll do again it. smilies/wink.gif

[VanimaEdhel]

Ummm...are we supposed to know that Deorlin's missing? Or were we, as we were regrouping, supposed to forget about him? I can change my post if that is the case...

[Deorlin]

Vanima, I sincerely resent the sugestion that you all could forget about me smilies/wink.gif After all, I am so thoroughly obnoxious towards you, there's no way that at least you wouldn't remember my sneering face smilies/biggrin.gif I just wish that I had turned around and come back to the posse before the wargs attacked so that you could rescue me more directly.

I'm, hoping you all won't forget me and that you will come looking for me and find me - soon(please, this water is getting soooooo cold!) Bethberry, I guess you were right - running off and leaving you all behind was an error in judgement
smilies/rolleyes.gif Live and learn!

So I'll just bob around a little more and wait for the cavavlry to show smilies/biggrin.gif

Oh, and I for one don't mind in the least if the game goes past the original timeframe. Just as long as I get my horse back (Sadiya is riding Frey so please don't anyone kill him)

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: Deorlin ]

[Lugbúrz]

Just to step in for a moment, Kiara and I seem to be well coordinated except that we await her introductory post.

I'm enjoying the game, except that it is a tad quick for my entish disposition. smilies/smile.gif

Great gaming, keep it up while you have your legs to walk on, for who knows when they may be taken away.

I shall take mine on a stroll to the pub. Friends await the expert pool player while beer awaits the connoisseur. smilies/tongue.gif

Good night.

[Anglachel]

Vanima,

I was hoping someone else would realize that Deorlin was missing, as Anglachel was a bit too focused on Hading to notice. I think how you handled it in your post is perfect. Plot-wise, it makes more sense that your character noticed he was missing anyways, considering the behind the scenes tension between you two.

All,

The posts have been great all around. Glad to see that we all didn't fry too many brain cells on New Year's.

[Maikadilwen]

OK, I've filled in my post. Aman, the stage is yours. smilies/evil.gif smilies/biggrin.gif I've made another save so we won't get too far behind the pursuers (we should be ahead of them you know...). Let me know if you'll use it. Or anyone else. Otherwise I'll just delete it again. smilies/smile.gif

[piosenniel]

Deorlin's Horse - Its Doom

Please note that the horse is dead - killed by the Warg. It has been stowed out of sight by the Wolves for a later meal.

There is no possibility that any of you 'see' it riderless in the distance.

[*Varda*]

Well, it was Maikadurion's horse I really saw in the distance in my post. Only Malienna wouldn't know that, would she? She was hoping it was Deorlin's, and that he was ok.

~Varda

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: *Varda* ]

[Bêthberry]

A reminder about some chronology:

This game takes place in 3009.

Gollem enters Mordor in 3009 and is captured and not released until 3017.

This is where Sauron is, according to the entry from The Encyclopedia of Arda:

For a thousand years, Mordor was to be ruled in Sauron's stead by the Lord of the Nazgûl. Sauron himself was slowly and secretly growing in power at Dol Guldur to the north, and did not wish to reveal himself until he had sufficient strength to face his enemies.

By 2941 (Third Age), Sauron had grown sufficiently to face his foes. The White Council attacked Dol Guldur, but he had prepared for this and abandoned that stronghold, returning to his ancient kingdom of Mordor in the following year. He rebuilt his capital of Barad-dûr, and began the ordering of Mordor for war.


While it is true that Sauron sent 3 Nazgul to maintain Dol Guldur after he abandoned it, the focus for this game is on Mordor and Minas Morgul. It is just a short game, after all.

Bethberry

[Lugbúrz]

Bethberry, I have replied to your PM. I'll leave it Kiara to take the appropriate lead.

All I will repeat here is that 3009 was not the year that Gollum was captured in Mordor. A careful scan of the note in Appendix B will show that he was infact captured at an arbitrary time inbetween 3009 and 3017. The Encyclopedia can be tricky sometimes with its entries, as a project underway it lacks detail that are easily accessible in the Appendices.

Sincerely
Lug

[Maikadilwen]

Uhm... OK, I think I'll just stay safely out of that discussion. smilies/tongue.gif

Now where are my pack of thieves? You are very much needed here.

Bethberry, have you heard anything from Garen?

[Bêthberry]

Dear Lug,

I have just answered your PM. Please note that my comment does not specifically say Gollem was captured in 3009, but implies a timeframe only. I summarized hastily from Appendix B.

My point is that 3009 marks the time when "the Mountains and all land eastwards are becoming dangerous", as given in Appendix B.

It is often easier to copy from a generally reliable online source than take the time to type out by hand the text. I don't see any major discrepancy here, since the quotation from the EofA does not mention Gollem, but I do thank you for directing people to Appendix B, which I should have done also.

Bethberry

Edit: Maika, talk about cross-posting! smilies/smile.gifI have not heard from Garen since he left. You might check the discussion thread of the games he is in in The Shire to see if he is back.

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[VanimaEdhel]

Okay, Deorlin already established that he saw the old companionship riding towards him, but what is this new group he sees when the horse is turned? I got very confused and had to reread this Discussion a few times, but I cannot seem to figure out who this new group is...maybe I am blind, I don't know...

[Lugbúrz]

The Encyclopedia is very reliable in general content, but during the course of trivia we have come across many inconsistent chronological notes. Just a point to be wary of. smilies/smile.gif

As to the typing part, I do understand, perhaps you will be interested in an electronic version of some texts? They prove very useful.

Yours,
Lug

[Bêthberry]

Lug,

If you could give me some links to online texts I would be very grateful. smilies/smile.gif

Reminders for Appendix A are particularly needed.

Bethberry,
who is off to read today's posts and see what the discrepancies are, and to make my own post.

[Bêthberry]

Thank you kindly, Lug! smilies/smile.gif

Horse thieves,

Please continue posting. There is much to do to recover from your wharg attack. You have a body to bury and wounds to recover from. Oro, it is not clear where your character came from. How did he reach the group in time for the wharg attack, given where he was in your last post?

Pursuers,

Please refrain from posting until we can straighten out what is happening. I will be PMing several of you about your posts.

Deorlin found only the thieves' trail and some movement in the grasses. He did not see any thieves, although he almost came upon the site of their attack. I think there is some confusion about where our group spent the night.

Aireruthiel, we are only two days' ride out of Edoras. Also, it is not clear how Maikadurion could have been the one to find Deorlin, given that our group was between you and him and given that others had already begun to look for him.

There needs to be a post about pulling Deorlin out of the water, warming him (this is winter, after all, folks, and people cannot survive long in freezing water), treating his wounds.

Everyone, we need to be clear about who goes in search of Deorlin. Ælfritha will not be in that group which searches for Deorlin. She will be remaining to grieve for Hading and seeing that he receives a proper burial, lamenting the loss of her pack horse, and recovering what supplies she can. My save post will cover this and will be done this evening.

We have some major editing to do to provide continuity and consistency between posts. No new posts until this is done!

Again, please read each other's posts carefully, keep track of the general dispostions and likely actions of the other characters, and refrain from galloping forward too quickly with the plot. Keep the focus of your posts on your character, with some interaction with others, rather than a largescale narrative summary of events. Anglachel and I will be doing those posts.

Part of what makes an RPG a good RPG is attention to the consequences of an event.

PM me if you have questions or concerns about what is going on in these revisions.

Bethberry

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Maikadilwen]

Keep the focus of your posts on your character, with some interaction with others

But it isn't easy doing that if you're pretty much alone in doing anything.... smilies/frown.gif

It seems to me, that for every three or four Rohirrim posts, there is only one Easterling post, which is why I've started to make saves every now and then, hoping that my fellow thieves may want to use those, so we can make a better flow to the story. Otherwise we can easily end up with ten Rohirrim posts in a row without a single post from a thief.

I'm not nagging at anyone here, I know you're all busy with other things as well, but there are so many of them and so terribly few of us.

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Bêthberry]

You are right, Maika; it is understandable that you would be carrying several characters. My comment was directed at the pursuers rather than at the thieves, since we have got ourselves into a log jam.

I wonder what has happened to Aman and Sabdh.

Bethberry

[Sadbh]

I'm really sorry I haven't had a chance to post in a really long time. smilies/frown.gif (My Orcan family members spend hours sitting in front of the computer exploding enemy forces with th click of a button.) I am so sorry to Maika for leaving you so, so... thiefless smilies/rolleyes.gif. Couldn't think of a better word... smilies/smile.gif Also, Maika, do you have any specific plans for your next post which was 'Saved'? I don't want to mess up your plans or anything, as would be typical of one like myself. smilies/rolleyes.gif

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Sadbh ]

[Bêthberry]

Okay All Rohan pursuers,

I have just finished PMing most of you with ideas how to clear up the inconsistencies. I'll briefly mention some of them here, for they involve important aspects of gaming.

Each of you, by the way, is doing a great job writing well, with interesting vocabulary, sentence structures, detail and charactertization. No confusion there at all and lots to commend every one of you. What you do need to do, however, is temper your enthusiasm a little, slow down, and pay closer attention to the details and cues of interactive writing.

For instance, my character, Ælfritha, does not carry a sword; she has only a whip and spurs. Yet there are several references to her slashing away at the wolves. Please change those.

Here's another example. Anglachel has his character sticking a knife into the ground during his eulogy over Hading. Yet later he is said to be riding his horse waving a sword around. Oops.

These are small points. What is more important is the 'big picture' of the game, watching to get a sense of the overall direction of the story. Here, there are important clues.

Vanima and Deorlin have already set up some tension between their characters and Vanima's character is the first to notice he is missing. Within the story, this gives her character, Izrenna, the lead in setting up the search for him. She is the one who, by rights of storytelling, should find himor who should at least control that part of the story. This is part of reading the nuances of the storyline.

There will be other times when other characters will take the lead in a particular activity. Learn to watch for these kinds of things so you know when your character will take the lead and when he or she will sit back.

For instance, the loss of horse and supplies and the loss of Hading will be the logical concern of my character. Thus, Ælfritha will not join the group to find Deorlin; she will sit that action out, so to speak. But other characters might want to help her recover the supplies, just as others might help Anglachel bury Hading.

Also, remember to follow through with the logical consequences of actions, such as allowing sufficient time and detail for the recovery of Deorlin from the river. Who else gets wet, if anyone? Do we need to light a fire to warm ourselves? Have the horses sustained any injuries? Are they spooked? Do we need to calm them down? Deal with the implications and realities of each event before running headlong into the next plot development.

Also, this is winter in Rohan; weather is very cold. References to warmth are misplaced and so they should be changed, unless we are dealing with Mordor, which has a different climate. And we aren't there yet.

If you have an idea for a particular kind of interaction with another character, be sure to PM the writer to see if it will fit in with what he or she has planned for the character. Don't set up anything for other characters without first getting their writers' permission.

Some of the suggestions I've made in PM will require substantial editing and some posts which are fine now will have to be changed as a result of that editing.

I'll post here in the discussion thread when all the changes have been made and we are ready to post again as the pursuers.

The horse thieves should continue posting. Here's your chance to catch up!

And again, if any of you have any concerns or questions about this, please PM me.

Bethberry

[Maikadilwen]

Sadbh and all other thieves...
Maika, do you have any specific plans for your next post which was 'Saved'?

No, I haven't planned anything. I saved a slot to make sure that we wouldn't get too far behind. It really makes no sense if the people pursuing us are actually ahead of us. Which is why I have made that "save" so any or all of you guys can get a post in there. If anyone is interested, let me know and I'll put your post in there. If no one wants to use it, I'll just delete it again. smilies/smile.gif

[Deorlin]

To the pursuers:

I'm sorry for all the confusion I may have generated. Although Bethberry's PMs may change some of this around, here is what I meant for my character to be doing:

I thought when we camped the first night out,we were all still on the north shore of the river. When we left our camp the second morning of pursuit, I rode ahead. I made it to the ford (of the Snowbourne) ahead of the group, crossed over to the south bank, and had just ridden a short way up the bank when the wargs attacked me. I was unhorsed (from Sami)and driven into the river. I fell in and drifted some way down, and ended up back on the north bank, in the shallow water.

Pio, I know your wargs killed Sami, the chestnut horse I borrowed in Edoras. I was just asking that no-one kill my own horse, Frey, who is the dun that Sadiya is still riding (I hope). At least I didn't see any reference to him being killed yet. Well, anyway, no big deal.

Deorlin

[Garen LiLorian]

I'm alive!!! *panting*

Sorry, great bloody mess. What with thievery, visas, hotels... etc. Hong Kong is a mess this time of year. Don't go there if you can avoid it. Just kidding. For anyone who cares, I had a blast.

I'll post now on the game thread, assuming my character is still alive, and no-one else has taken complete control of him.

Again, sorry about this whole stinking mess.

[Maikadilwen]

So good to see you, Garen. smilies/biggrin.gif You've been greatly missed.
Gormel is alive, but may not have received the best treatment. smilies/wink.gif

[Bêthberry]

Welcome back in the nick of time, Garen Liborian. smilies/smile.gif

No problem with any of the confusion! This is all part of interactive gaming. smilies/smile.gif

Deorlin,

Please see my PM for full details about our first night's camp. The pursuers are in the forest glade when Pio's whargs attack them. That means they must group after the attack and some of them go off in search of your character. We are not by the river.

And there are several other confusions to sort out, so you're not alone!

Everyone in the game,

I'll copy here the important characteristic of this game in the initial description:

However, these are no ordinary horse thieves; the story provides yet another example of the dark times that are come upon Rohan in the years just before The War of the Ring.

As a chase, the purpose of the story is simple: to recover the horses, deal the thieves a resounding defeat, and return with the animals to The White Horse. It is possible this aim could be itself defeated. And there will be deaths along the way.


There are no guarantees that any of the stolen horses will be recovered. There are no guarantees that any of the characters (except for Ælfritha, who will shortly join a currently ongoing game, where she could well die) will survive, in either group of thieves or pursuers.

Please see the discussion about the difficulty of using your nick for gaming in the rules in the Golden Hall. This is why I had asked you, Deorlin, if you were sure you wanted to use your nick for the character in this game.

This game is not a 'time travel' game of 'what would have happened if'. It follows the chronology and events faithfully of the Third Age. This means that nothing can happen which will give any character any knowledge which would have changed the direction of events in LOTR. We will experience the beginning of the dark times which come upon Rohan, but nothing which would alert Theodon to Saurman's treachery or Grima's falsehood or the rise of Sauron. If we do learn anything specific (as opposed to vague, general unease), we will pretty much be toast, folks.

Bethberry

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Airerûthiel]

This post is to offer a genuine apology to the group in general for messing up the story due to inaccurate posts and edits to said posts, and certain people who have claimed rights to certain events in particular (I believe you know who you are - at least Bethberry does anyway) for stealing your plotlines or any details of these.

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: Airerûthiel ]

[Lugbúrz]

Bethberry, does your last post here indirectly answer one of my PMs?

I have a good feeling about this... smilies/wink.gif

[Amanaduial the archer]

Alright, alright, Im back! I was only gone for, what, three days? This is a fast game...

Maika...lovely, thankyou for that, I will reply directly. Hmmm...welcome back Garen. Well, that knocks out my plans for you. And twould have been so easy right now...ah well, Kane will have to make an attempt I think, even if some pesky henchman comes to stop him.

But we will deal with Bhurthnin methinks. Hes a NPC isnt he? And how to deal with him...ah ha! A plan has formed.

Hmmm, is Helka going to be joining us?

[Maikadilwen]

Aman, I warn you! Don't let Kane get any "ideas"... smilies/wink.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

Garen, check your PMs.

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Who, me? Aw, Maika, Im hurt? Would a gentleman like Kane honestly try anything with an honourable lady like Rhana? *Yeah, now I really need the MSN angel smiley...*

Hmmm, I cant post again with the evil plot til Garen gives permission...thats pesky...

[Orofacion of the Vanyar]

Bethberry,

Ulfeg was to meet the thieves at the eastern shore of the Snowborne. I suppose I could clarrify my inital post placing it a few days before his arrival at the river.

[VanimaEdhel]

This post is to offer a genuine apology to the group in general for messing up the story due to inaccurate posts and edits to said posts, and certain people who have claimed rights to certain events in particular (I believe you know who you are - at least Bethberry does anyway) for stealing your plotlines or any details of these.

It is okay. I can see by the number of posts you have that you are fairly new, at least, to this board. You should have seen me when you first started out! Do not worry: you will improve and, at least by my standpoint, no offense is taken. I did not even mean for Izrênna to really take over. If you know me, that was the last thing I would intend...*Prays that she doesn't completely mess up the RPG now that she's been given this responsibility...*

Okay...is my post okay? Yell at me if it isn't...or calmly tell me what to change. I would prefer the second, but...

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]

[Bêthberry]

Deorlin,

You need to read and follow the directions and comments here in the Discussion thread far more closely. Here are two comments I posted, as the Game Owner, for all of the Rohan pursuers. The first is from a post of Jan 5 at 6:49 pm; the second is from Jan 5 at 10:36:

Please refrain from posting until we can straighten out what is happening ....

I'll post here in the discussion thread when all the changes have been made and we are ready to post again as the pursuers.

The horse thieves should continue posting.


However, you have posted today, Jan 7 at 1:20, before the Game Owner has given that go-ahead. While your post does not contain anything which will create confusion, it does suggest that you do not understand the cooperative nature of RPGing and you do not understand the importance of following the strategy discussions which take place in the Discussion thread. These are both crucial aspects of gaming.

Lugbúrz,

We'll straighten the specific details out in PM, but you're on the right track .... smilies/wink.gif

Oro ,

Thanks so much for making a smoother transition between your two posts!

*curtsies cordially*

Vanima,

Yell? When, my dear, have I ever yelled at you? smilies/smile.gif

Your post is fine, although you could make more reference to Beowulf and Corrin, to allow Estel and Gryphon to post as part of the rescue. One point you might reconsider seriously is whether you really want to split Izrênna and Deorlin off from the group of pursuers by leaving them behind. After all, this confusion came about because in the first place Deorlin split his character apart from the group. It is easier to keep track of everyone if we are all in the same place.

All Rohan Pursuers,

Good work making those changes! Mix ups like this can often doom a game, but you all have come through with great efforts. The confusion has been cleared up. smilies/smile.gif

The game is now open for posting by the Pursuers as well as the Thieves.

Here is where things stand:

Anglachel, Ælfritha, Malienna, Maikadurion are waiting back in the glade for the rescuers to return.

Izrenna has pulled Deorlin out of the water, packed him on her horse, and is returning him to the glade. Corrin and Beowulf are with them.

What we need now: A campfire to warm the wet ones. A decision on whether Izrenna stays behind with Deorlin while the others ride on to catch the thieves--and a discussion of what this entails. An accounting of how many riders we have and how many horses and who will ride with whom. Individual posts are of course quite appropriate, but perhaps Anglachel should do a final summarizing post to head us out?

All,

The game now takes us south along the Entwash, towards Minas Morgul. There is water between us and Mordor.

Bethberry

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Anglachel]

Pursuers,

Glad to see we are back on track. Feel free to use today to make any final posts for your character prior to us continuing the pursuit. At some point tonight, probably later unless no one posts during the day, I will take us across the river (the Snowbourne, not the Entwash - that remains to be crossed) and into the next stage of the journey.

Thanks.

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Anglachel ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Oro, whats meant to be in the letter? I dont know what it is Im meant to be reading.

[VanimaEdhel]

Hmmm...I may have an idea...bare with me: I'm mid-midterm-studying-nervous-breakdown-mode right now, so my head isn't the clearest, but I think I know how I can edit to make it all better...let me to edit my last post...

EDIT: So, *hint hint* Deorlin: maybe your character should come out of his miniature coma soon...

And: the men can speak of anything they wish. I had nothing particular in mind. I assume it will be something that concerns them for some reason...something they don't want Izrênna to know about for whatever explanation you can give...

Bethberry: you never yell! I was not referring specifically to you! If anyone wanted to smack me and say, "Hey! I wanted my character to do this!" I would have changed for them!

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]

[Sadbh]

A Note to My Fellow Easterlings:

Please, please, please, is there anyway that you could stop with the 'saves'? It's really hard to guess what your next actions are going to be. I don't want to post a really simple post if you plan on killing off someone. smilies/frown.gif

Thanks,
Sadbh

[Anglachel]

Vanima,

Just a quick edit for your most recent post: You refer to your two companions as 'Estel and Gryphon' at one point instead of their RPG names. Not a big deal but will be confusing to others reading who are not familiar with the characters. Otherwise, I think you did an excellent job with your post.

All,

As it stands now, if I move the company along with my next post then, out of necessity, I will be making decisions for certain members of the company as to whether they will be immediately joining us on the next leg. However, there hasn't been all that much time since we've gotten everything organized appropriately. Therefore, if anyone has a preference on where their character will be going, be sure to make a post regarding this (either in the discussion or in the RPG) by tomorrow afternoon so I can incorporate it. I'll wait until the evening to post to give everyone ample opportunity for input/posting. Thanks much.

[Deorlin]

Sorry, Bethberry, I wasn't trying to be deliberately ignoring your instructions. I did read them the other day and refrained from posting, but then the next day I read the latest posts in this thread and just clean forgot that you had said that - it just honestly slipped my mind. smilies/redface.gif I apologize for once again putting my foot in it. And when I originally "split off" from the group, I guess I didn't realize I was to wait for more info/direction from you. I (wrongly) assumed that, given you had me placed ahead of you and the rest, I was going to go on and get to the ford first.

My only excuse is this is my first RP game and I just didn't realize that we were supposed to just be doing character development. I'm not meaning to be rude; I'm only ignorant. smilies/rolleyes.gif

My apologies to all.
Deorlin

[Maikadilwen]

Sadbh,

The reason we, or at least I, make "saves", is to make sure we can get a post in the right place and time, since they must also be somewhat co-ordinated with thse of the pursuers.

In the beginning of this RPG, we Easterlings were pretty slow getting on the move and suddenly it was morning and the posse had left Edoras even before we had.
That is what I, for one, am trying to avoid by saving a slot when I see an opportunity for a post but don't have the time to make one or haven't yet decided exactly what to do.

If you have any questions or plot suggestions, feel free to PM me. I'll be more than happy to tell you all about the current plans and eventually hear some new ones. smilies/smile.gif

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Bêthberry]

Deorlin,

Methinks you doth protest too much. smilies/wink.gif

The point is not that gamers must write only character development in this RPG. The point is to read each other's posts carefully and write interactively, taking up and following each other's cues and learning how to advance the plot in ways which will enhance the story and the game and not merely one's own character. Always check in at the Discussion thread, too, before posting. smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[Amanaduial the archer]

Hmmm, would you mind if I didnt use that bit Oro? You cant just drop that on me! I dont know what supposed to be in your letter! Please can you edit it? Me and Maika have a plan here and we need to use it before we leave the camp.

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Amanaduial the archer ]

[VanimaEdhel]

GAH! You're right...sorry...I've done that once before on another RPG, actually...

I fixed it! All set we are! Yeesh: did I just say that? I sound like Yoda...

[Anglachel]

Okay All,

We are now officially again in pursuit of the bad guys. Sorry about the delay in getting us going, but I have just read about 300 pages today on the Theory of Constraints and it took me a while to get back into 'creative' mode. While I'm sure everyone is fascinated by how to increase throughput at a bottleneck, I don't think it would have added much to this particular story.

Since no one has posted, I attempted to wrap things up from the attack and then move us along, but tried to keep it open enough that no character's path is set in stone.

It will be interesting to see what next awaits us on our journey.

[Estel the Descender]

Dear Everyone,

An unexpected turn of events just happened to me: my Dad is suddenly ill and the doctor told him to rest for two weeks. The thing is, I have to fill in for him at his job until he gets better.

smilies/frown.gif That means I won't be able to post for a while (if that's OK for all of you).

You guys can use my character until I return. Please do not kill him or his horse. Wound him, beat him, humiliate him, make him dance ballet or the asere-he, but please keep him alive.

Estel

[Maikadilwen]

Aman, you are so mean! You go girl! smilies/evil.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[Orofacion of the Vanyar]

Amanaduial the archer,

Apologies, I have edited my post.

Everyone,

My grandfather is passing away. I will be gone this weekend, feel free to use my character in whatever way appropriate.

Oro

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Orofacion of the Vanyar ]

[Lugbúrz]

Dark are the times that bring news of illness.

Estel: I hope that your father feels well soon, and I'm glad he has a son like you that he can depend upon. *bows*

Oro: As I said before, may you find strength in yourself, your family and your friends.

[Maikadilwen]

But Oro... Aman has already worked that out. Now she has to edit her post. smilies/confused.gif

Oro and Estel, my best wishes to you both and your families.

[Amanaduial the archer]

I have to change my post now? grr-ishness.

Thankyou Maika my dear, i try my best smilies/evil.gif Come on, post! I want to see the game and...what happens after

Estel, Oro, I hope your grandfather and your father gets better. smilies/evil.gif
Wound him, beat him, humiliate him, make him dance ballet or the asere-he, but please keep him alive. You really feel for your character then, huh? smilies/biggrin.gif

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: Amanaduial the archer ]

[Airerûthiel]

Estel and Oro, I feel deeply for you and your families. May you find strength in family, friends, and faith.

[Bêthberry]

Latest post is up. I thought I would provide a little bit of recollection about discovering the site of the thieves' wharg attack and a tiny bit of interaction.

Feel free to add your own recollections or to move us forward. Deorlin and Vanima, I've left it to you two to decide what you want to do.

Anglachel, thanks for moving us out. Nicely done!

Estel, my best wishes for your father's speedy recovery. We'll carry your character and horse.

Oro, my prayer and thoughts are with you, and we look forward to your return as you are able.

Bethberry

[Maikadilwen]

OK, that was Bhurthnin.

2 down, more to go? smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/evil.gif

[Amanaduial the archer]

more to go?

Hehe, oh yeah! *realises what this could have meant.* But...not kane right? Right?!

That was great Maika, very nice! But now Rhana seems to be traumatised? Oh bother....

[Maikadilwen]

Nah, she just has to get rid of the memory that his disgusting hands actually touched her... ICK! *shivers*

[ January 11, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Gryphon Hall]

By the way, I've talked with Estel and have gotten permission from Estel to have limited control over Béowulf and his horse Léod while he's off.

Just in case you're curious at my liberties with his characters.

[ January 12, 2003: Message edited by: Gryphon Hall ]

[VanimaEdhel]

Just so you know: Deorlin and I are working on a "waking-up" scene, so he will awake before noon, and we will be following you! Just so you know what's going to happen!

And I told Bethberry, but I thought I should tell all of you that, as I have midterms this week, my time on here will be quite limited!

[Gryphon Hall]

I almost forgot! smilies/eek.gif Exams! smilies/confused.gif Sheesh! smilies/frown.gif

I guess I wouldn't be spending so much time, either.

Garn! smilies/frown.gif

I'll be putting a save point soon, then.

[Bêthberry]

This is January 13 and people are running into RL conflicts. Perhaps it is time to move this game towards its conclusion.

I would suggest that both groups resolve what issues and conflicts now concern them--or as much as is possible with carrying characters--and move south. Destiny awaits us.

Shall we aim for a conclusion to the game around the 19th or 20th of January? Unless I hear otherwise from the majority of you, that is what I will be planning for.

Bethberry

[*Varda*]

Sounds good to me, Bethberry, I have exams starting on the 27th.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Well it seems I am almost the only one with no exams. But no, wait, I just have piles and piles of IT coursework instead. Joy. Lucky lucky me.

[Airerûthiel]

The 19th/20th is fine for me...I don't have exams, just lots and lots of lovely Textiles sheets to do! Oh joy(!)

[Orofacion of the Vanyar]

Thank you all for your kind words and well wishes. I appreciate them greatly.

Well I am back and Ulfeg is trying to bring the theives together, in his own crude way, so we can move out. By the way this meet Ulfeg keeps referring to is a place in a secretive place near the borders of Ithilien.

All,

How exactly are we to end this RP. Are we all to collaborate on the conclusion?

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Orofacion of the Vanyar ]

[Maikadilwen]

Just to be really b*tchy and ruin your plans, Oro... smilies/wink.gif smilies/tongue.gif

We started out in Edoras, right? And then we've been going East ever since. Right?
So now my question is, how (and why) are we going to Isengard which is to the NW of Edoras, when we've been heading for Mordor all the time?
Has there been a change of plans that I've missed? smilies/confused.gif

[VanimaEdhel]

Our characters are disobeying orders by following, I know, but we discussed it at length in PM and decided that it would fit in with both characters to disobey orders. And I'm here! And 60% done with my exams! Woo-hoo!

[Gryphon Hall]

Finished with exams, but now I have to grade them. *sigh* I wish I had more time.

I hope to have time around the 19th and the 20th, but I am not counting on it. If I am not posting, please make my character do something cool but not out of character. *sigh* I would appreciate it greatly if you don't kill Corrin yet, or anything.

But if the story calls for it . . . *sigh*

[Lugbúrz]

Bethberry, I've replied to your PM. The dates work well for me too.

[VanimaEdhel]

Bethberry: while I will not be on for an extended time then (I am never online for an extended time...3-4 hours at most), I will be able to finish out a lot, as I am all done taking my midterm exams (luckily, I don't have to grade stuff). I am all yours until finals start (then I will be just as joyous to talk to as I was around here...watch yourself...).

Deorlin: we may have to speed up our running after the others...

[Maikadilwen]

Uhm.... people? Where did you all go?
I'm looking for some thieves here...

[VanimaEdhel]

Deorlin: Yay! You did a fine job with Izrênna! Don't underestimate yourself! Now it's your turn with internal thoughts while you gaze into the fire...

All: So, as we are finishing up tomorrow and the day after that, I take it that Deorlin and Izrênna will not catch up? Or will we meet you guys on the way back, or find your dead corpses, or something equally as joyous? Because Deorlin and I have decided that we are coming after you tomorrow. Tell us if there is any special way you want us to end our part of the story...

[Deorlin]

I'm going to echo Vanima's inquiry as to what the two of us should do - keep posting with our plan to pursue you, or wait til one or more of the other 'pursuers' posts as to what is happening to them?

[Bêthberry]

Here's a general layout which we can all discuss.

There will be an overwhelming force come to claim the stolen horses, a force which surprises even the horse thieves. Both groups, thieves and pursuers, are defeated.

How does everyone want to handle this specifically? Shall the pursuers catch up with the thieves and engage with them, only to be overwhelmed by this other force, or should the force deal with the thieves, and then turn upon the pursuers, who finally arrive? Do you want to get a fight in between the two groups?

Vanima and Deorlin, you can choose when and how your characters wish to arrive. The only stipulation is that, alas, you cannot save the day.

Kiara has been ill and unable to post, but she will be starting us on the conclusion. Lugbúrz will provide the coup de grace but there won't be anything particularly merciful about it. smilies/smile.gif

What else is there to plan?

Bethberry

[Lugbúrz]

Dear Riders to the Dark Side,

Something must be said about the routes and a rather "loose" management of the geography surrounding the pursuit. Bear with me for being a little critical here but pio was correct to point out concerns early on. Unfortunately none replied to her question "Where are you going from there?", or at least I wasn't able to spot a reply, and from the RPG, it is not clear either.

Let me start from the beginning:

1. (Minor) If the journey began in Edoras, the issue of crossing the Snowbourne does not enter the framework. I'm assuming this was an erroneous inclusion due to some confusion? Or maybe they did this to be more clandestine and also confuse the trackers. In that case, good job. smilies/smile.gif

2. (This is one quite harmless) but I was curious: Oro you mention in your first post traveling 'east' with the White Mountains on your left... Where are you? smilies/tongue.gif

3. (Major) The problematic thing in the story is where does one cross the Anduin? The Great River was well guarded in these years, and presents the strongest line of defense to Gondor on the East.

Taking the last point into consideration, and the fact that the quest has not resolved these issues as the Anduin has not been reached yet, I am taking some liberties in my post to add to the story, iron out these logistical issues, address pio's questions and provide a more robust route for the horses.

Please bear with me for this. I am going to post soon, as I will not have the time to post later.

Kiara,

I will send you a PM after my post. I trust you have had the time to discuss things with Bethberry.

All,

It was a pleasure to read the game. Keep up the good work.

[Lugbúrz]

Good Morning Fair Bethberry.

Does this bring back memories? smilies/smile.gif

Here's to in-sync posts in the wee hours. smilies/wink.gif

I raise my glass to you, O Wise One.

[Lugbúrz]

So, Kiara is sick. I hope she feels better soon. Best not to trouble her with details.

Bethberry, should I wait and let all the players demarcate the route, or should I take that into my hands?

I'm hoping I can post over the weekend, otherwise the week ahead seems like a full one.

Lug

[Bêthberry]

Greetings indeed, Lugbúrz. smilies/smile.gif

I have been PMing people about the geography and we have been planning in chat; I'm sorry you can't make it to chat. We were expecting to cross the Anduin around Osgiliath, taking the Morgul Road to Minas Morgul. Neither thieves nor pursuers should have realized that crossing the water was a mistake.

Oro has indeed been most remiss. We should send him to The Shire, where Pio will correct his geography. smilies/wink.gif

I have Kiara's post, which I have now posted on the game thread.

Lug, feel free to include these directions here in your posts. If you don't, I will later today append my post which has Kiara's entry to the game, to force march both groups towards the Morgul Road.


Bethberry

[ January 19, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Lugbúrz]

I see. I did not expect the chase to go so far south before crossing the Anduin.

This only presents more problems. Osgiliath, though in ruins wasn't free to pass for the enemy. It was held strong until the War of the Ring. The Anduin represented an ultimate defense in Gondor that was not breached right until the War of the Ring, when Osgiliath fell (the crossings fell a year prior to the War of the Ring, until when Gondor had full control and a very good watch on it, even then they held the near end of city right uptil the Batlle at the Pellenor) and so did Cair Andros.

Are you expecting the group to cross in extreme stealth despite such enemy territory?

Might I suggest an alternate path into North Ithelien, safely north near the mouths of the Entwash?

I just read Kiara's post. Very well written, but I believe her view of the 'bridge' is a little simplistic. There was no free passage. Can someone check this out?

I've decided to post tomorrow due to the uncertainity.

[Bêthberry]

Dear Lug,

I don't quite understand where the difficulty lies for you, unless you think it would be too difficult for the pursuers and the thieves to cross over into the eastern side. I am not asking your group to cross the Anduin. But then Oro's posting of contrary directions to Isenguard has thrown all of the writers for the horse thieves, who no longer understand where they are. smilies/eek.gif smilies/rolleyes.gif smilies/mad.gif

Here's the scenario:

1. The horse thieves themselves are not aware of who ultimately organized the theft of horses. They are heading south along the rivers (Entwash and then Anduin) solely in order to avoid the Great West Road. They think their ultimate destination is Minas Tirith or there abouts. Thus, crossing earlier into North Ithilien would not make sense to them.

2. There was to have been a double cross, with the new leader then surreptitiously taking the horses towards Minas Morgul via the environs of Osgiliath. This new thief would himself then be done in by the Nazgul.

3. Neither Nazgul nor Sauron would cross west over the Anduin. All of their action would take part east of the Anuin.

4. The pursuers are also equally astounded that the trail heads east at Osgiliath. As they try to follow the new leader of the thieves, they are overcome by the Nazgul.

5. Kiara's post was intended to introduce her character/s and create atmosphere only. smilies/evil.gif: I don't see that her description of the bridge at this point is a problem.

Bethberry

[Maikadilwen]

A warning for all horse thieves.

If I have heard nothing from you by tomorrow noon (late afternoon my time. It's now 9pm my time) your character will meet a terrible end.
Bethberry has given me her blessing in doing so and I will only be following "orders". smilies/evil.gif

[ January 19, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aich. Sorry all, I havent had much time to go on the internet for any amount of time; Im sorry. I will post as soon as I can, but am buried under large piles of Art and It coursework. bear with me please.

No! Maika, please, dont kill Kane...

[Lugbúrz]

Bethberry,

Yes, I see a problem in crossing near Minas Tirith through Osgiliath. This seems both impossible and unrealistic.

They will die at the hands of Gondorians before they cross the river. I would suggest crossing by an arranged boat way up north on the borders of Gondor.

And, Maika, what exactly do you mean by 'meet a terrible end'? Are you writing this down? Now I'm even more confused... smilies/eek.gif

[VanimaEdhel]

*Facepalms* Oi vey, no worries, Bethberry, I hate Mary-Sues and situations in which they appear more than I hate teeny-boppers...and that hatred runs deep.

[Sadbh]

Er... sorry for the unexcused abscence. I just felt 'left-out-of-the-loop' and what-not. As a note, I don't mind if people aproach my character and say or do something. I wouldn't bite your character's head off if they said something to me without consulting me first. Just so long as you don't kill me or my child (in this case) or cut one of my limbs off, I'll probably be okay with it. smilies/wink.gif

However, in acordance to one of Bethberry's posts, I suppose I'll be planning a death scene for Sadiya anyways. Ho-hum.

If I'm still welcomed in the RP, please just tell me if there's anything you want my character to do or say. Sorry for the period of abscense.

Sadbh

[VanimaEdhel]

Sorry, Deorlin, I just had to push things along a tad...

Sabh: If it was up to me, you'd be in, but I'm not in charge, so...Bethberry? What do you say? smilies/smile.gif

[Bêthberry]

So little time left, so many loose ends. *shakes head*

Sadbh, yes, you are still in the game but your character will not survive. If you wish, the child can survive. Ælfritha will take her back to Edoras. Remember for future RPGs that you can always take discussions to PMs to clarify points. Maika was expecting people to PM her with ideas; that would have been a better course.

Vanima and Deorlin, smilies/wink.gif

Varda, you said at the start your character can die, so I assume that will be the case.

Gryphon Hall and Estel, you two can work out your characters' own futures, in accord with what Estel has PMed me.

Lug, all the more reason why so many of the participants here are doomed. No one is ready for or expects the consequences; this campaign reflects the start of the years of increasing difficulty for the people of Rohan. No one understands the nature of the evil which they face or the various factions. If you have made plans which this scenario disturbs, PM me to see what can be salvaged.

Maika was facing a situation where she was the sole thief and had to carry many characters, position them in different ways. This is what her comments refer to, Lug. You will provide the situation which will cause the deaths, but each gamer will have the right to post his or her own death scene.

Everyone, Kiara and Lug are providing the excitement. I am expecting Oro to do the double cross, but his character is toast also.

Bethberry

[ January 19, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Lugbúrz]

Greetings Bethberry.

It shouldn't disturb anything I had in mind. I was more concerned about how and where the group is to proceed. As of yesterday the story seemed stranded far away from Minas Tirith.

I still say that the deathblow is more likely to bet met at the hands of Gondor than from Mordor.

Could you tell me how the Easterlings crossed the Anduin in the first place to enter Rohan? Maybe I'll be able to sit down with a map and reconcile this route, but for now I have a feeling that they could not have crossed into the western bank at Osgiliath when they came towards Rohan to steal.

I'll be waiting for the thieves to fill in their "saves". I assume that I will be able to post on Tuesday.

All,

If any player would like to handle their death individually, you will have a chance to do this after I have played my part. Do not self-distruct without my appearance. smilies/eek.gif

------------
In utter chaos lies impeccable symmetry.

[Garen LiLorian]

I'm here. Don't know if I made your deadline or not. (bloody time differentials) While I'm perfectly happy to die, and rather plan on it, I'd like to;
A) Take control of the group again, since I only got in one post before being injured, and
B) Be all better, so as to at least put up a fight before going down. I'm putting in a post now, that has me be a bit more recovered than people are realizing.

I'm taking control again, so as to have some reason for my ultimate assasination (no real reason for Bethberry's double cross when there is no real leader smilies/smile.gif )

Feel free to assasinate me, but remember that this is a large, manly dude. I'd like to get in a few licks before biting it, if that's OK. smilies/biggrin.gif

[*Varda*]

Deadline? Gah. Well, I'm happy enough to die, but seeing as I'm snowed under by homework and exam stuff, I have limited time to post. I'll do my best to post tonight, though.

[Amanaduial the archer]

There you go. Sorry about the delay, Ive had alot of work like I said. Cause a little rivalry in the ranks there...

[Bêthberry]

It is great to see everyone coming back and getting excited about wrapping the game up. smilies/smile.gifGood recent posts!

Because we are coordinating a conclusion with so many different people, here is a timeline for the scenario.

1. I will post to get us closer to Osgiliath since no one else has. There will be stealth and deception in our movements, but our entrance into Gondor is aided by the fact that there are traitors there who have been prepared by Oro's character. Treat this fact as a given rather than as an opportunity for extensive development.

2. Gormel is expecting to find his boss in Minas Tirith, but instead he is challenged/ double-crossed by Oro's character, who has secret contacts to get the horses across the Anduin. How the thieves play out the double cross is up to them, as long as at least some of them get to the boats. Lots of opportunity for hand to hand combat, derring do and further deceit. smilies/biggrin.gif

3. The pursuers arrive in time to see the boats head out across the river. How the pursuers play out this part is up to them. Some of them might catch the boat; others fight on land with the thieves if they wish. A hurried second negotiation can ensue for a second boat. Again, lots of opportunity for struggle and initiative. smilies/biggrin.gif

4. The boats dock on the east side of the river, where everyone is overwhelmed by what meets them.

5. The horses are lost to Kiara's characters who are in league with Lug's character.

6. Ælfritha does not make it across the river, but is so overcome by the events that she recognizes defeat and leaves to return to Edoras.

This RPG is an interpretation, Lug, of what happens when people are not expecting the depths of evil which ensues. It is a study in the discovery of evil. It is also a short RPG. The only caveat is that no one can return home with any specific information which would challenge or change events as they are set out in The War of the Ring.

If anyone has questions about how to play out their role or character, feel free to PM me or work out things with each other in PM.

Bethberry

[Lugbúrz]

A clarification of the treachery in Gondor would have made things clearer. At the point when I was planning to post, the story was stuck near the Entwash with no hint of where and how the crossing was to be accomplished.

Things are much clearer now that you have let me in on this information.

The end is forthcoming...

--------------
In utter chaos lies impeccable symmetry.

[Lugbúrz]

smilies/frown.gif

Bethberry,

I think it is going to take quite a while before all the points you mentioned are implemented in word, and until then my appearance is rather impossible.

Could you perhaps send me an e-mail when the time is ready, since I'll most likely be posting well beyond the 20th framework? I'm going to be busy rest of the week writing a journal paper, so I'm hoping I'll still manage the time to make my post.

I'll check in once tomorrow evening.

Yours,
Lug.

[VanimaEdhel]

Sorry I was not here yesterday: RL obligations came up fairly suddenly.

Anyway, as it seems I have not missed a tremendous amount, what I was thinking still fits in.

As it seems that we are going to fail this mission, it might be better if Aelfritha met up with Izrênna and Deorlin on the way back. They are too late (thus more than one part of the mission failed: they failed to catch up with the company in time), and have to travel back to Edoras, somewhat shamed that they did not catch up in time to aid the group.

Deorlin: Tell me what you think about that. We can work out the details in PM some more. If you want, maybe Deorlin's wounds could get worse again, putting him in fatal condition (maybe dying). That is completely up to you, of course, but I'm just thinking through my fingers here. They should be fairly close to catching up with the group, but just missing their goal, ultimately failing in their quest to find the others.

[Garen LiLorian]

Maika- What are you planning for this little standoff? Obviously, if Gormel is about to die, I probably shouldn't post again. Also, are you planning to resolve it? (i.e. should I delete my save?)

Thanks

[Maikadilwen]

Garen, the idea I had was turned a little since Aman got to the posting before me, and it seems there are a few errors between your posts that needs to be solved. I'm waiting for a response from Aman to see where she's going with this. It wasn't my intention to let Gormel die now. He hasn't suffered quite enough, has he? smilies/wink.gif smilies/evil.gif

[Amanaduial the archer]

I dont know, I was leaving it up to you. Do you want to die? Otherwise, someone might come between us. Just dont kill Kane.

Do you have a death wish?

[Kiara]

Anyone notice that I mistakenly re-posted my post yesterday? Oh man is it infuriating to be sick: absolutely no control over how I feel, trying to catch up, and nearly hallucinating at the same time....Please forgive my inability to be reached up to this point....Thanks Bethberry for posting my entry to the story. Hope you are all well and ready for the end....

smilies/evil.gif

[Amanaduial the archer]

Hope you get well soon hun. smilies/smile.gif

[Garen LiLorian]

I have no particular desire to die at this moment, no. Maika, feel free to intervene.

Otherwise, I'll write a post that deals with Gormel getting slashed and Kane taking a spearpoint to the ribs. Aman, unless you can think of a reason for Kane not to kill Gormel, I'll have to damage your character. I can't see any other way around this standoff. I won't kill him, but unless he's hurt, there's no way he would keep from killing Gormel. Also, would you mind editing your last post? That reference to Bhurthnin is confusing our dear Maika, I think. It's confusing me as well. Certainly your young, brash Kane can find another excuse for trashtalking and slapping around the old fogey Gormel, no? smilies/biggrin.gif

[Amanaduial the archer]

lol Im sure that could be arranged. smilies/evil.gif

If Rhana was to intervene, Kane wouldnt kill Gormel.

[Maikadilwen]

I'll be right on it. smilies/evil.gif

But beware! You may be dealing with a turn-coat...

DRAT!!!! I had almost finished my post when my puter suddenly re-booted all by itself. smilies/mad.gif smilies/mad.gif smilies/mad.gif
Don't have time to make another new one now. It'll have to wait. smilies/mad.gif smilies/mad.gif smilies/mad.gif

[ January 23, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Oh ouchie, I know the feeling. Well, whenever.

Turncoat?! No, thats my role in games! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Bêthberry]

C'mon, All, to quote Mithadan, all good things must come to an end. And so must Ride, despite the fun which several of you seem to be having with your subplots. Too much emphasis on them and the main plot is lost.

The two groups are in position for the final events. All subplots need to be finished by Saturday, January 25 and events moved forward. I will be expecting to see Kiara and Lug post and missing gamers as well. Thieves, conclude your double cross now. Anglachel, move your character into his destiny.

Posts need to follow the general outline above: the thieves catch a barge onto the river, various pursuers follow them. Darkness falls--oh, wait, back, back, wrong realm. Retreat, XFiles, I say, rereat.

Bethberry

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[VanimaEdhel]

I would post, Bethberry, but I don't want to double-post.

Where is everyone, anyway? Did Faramir break out of role, becoming a really annoying, closed-minded hypocrite, kidnapping and stealing everyone from the RPG, then trying to take the ring from Frodo, thus not being book Faramir and being a big meanie-head?

Oh...sorry about that smilies/wink.gif . Well: if you can lapse into X-Files, I can rant about the movie...

Anyway: post people!

[Maikadilwen]

I tried to recover as much of my post as possible from memory, but with MY memory, that's almost impossible!
I think I got about half of it, not much I know, but it should give you something to work with, Garen.

If not, PM me and we'll work something out, ok?

My puter's still messing up really badly. It keeps re-booting and crashing and sometimes I'm only able to be on-line for 2-5 minutes before it shuts down, so....
The "verdict" says new CPU so I won't make any promises until the problem's fixed, but I'll do my best to try and be here to get this finished.

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Anglachel]

Once we passed the the 20th, so passed my time available for writing, which is why that was set initially as a date on which this RPG was to culminate. Hence, now that that deadline has come and gone unheeded, I am useless to you now as a character. I'll have one more post to determine the destiny of Anglachel once Lug/Kiara make their posts, and then I'm back to the anticipated drilling of RL that we all have to deal with at times.

[Amanaduial the archer]

I cant post until Maika does.

*sulks* I like sub plots...

[Garen LiLorian]

Well, if you're feeling bored, Aman, I suppose you could go ahead and edit out that reference to Bhurthnin in your last post.(Die! Die! Stupid horse, why won't you... Oh. smilies/biggrin.gif )

I like subplots too. And we were just getting to the interesting part, where Sadbh reveals that her child is really the heir of Slytherin, destined to rule all the band, and our young hero Kane, troubled by the death of his father, learns something which will change his life forever... All this and more on the next episode of "All my Horse-Thieves."

[Amanaduial the archer]

Oops, sorry. Going

[VanimaEdhel]

Deorlin? You there? At all? We kind of have a story to finish...

her child is really the heir of Slytherin

Gah! I keep thinking Harry Potter each time to say that word: Slytherin!

[Bêthberry]

Maika, if it helps any, perhaps you could write your posts in Word or WP and email them to me. I could insert them where needed..

[b]Garen, there is always the possibility of squels and prequels for RPGs. I love subplots too. smilies/smile.gif

Great work, All.

Bethberry

[Estel the Descender]

Dear Everyone!

I'm back. . . sort of. My Dad's fine now but he's still weak: I still have to take up some of his work.

I'll be saving a post later. I still have to read a lot of the posts both in the Discussion and the RPG before I could actually write anything.

Thanks all for playing my 'characters', especially Vanima Edhel and Gryphon Hall.

Vanima

"Thank the Vala he is alive," Izrênna whispered, touching the man's face. She suddenly remembered those around her, "Help me move him!" she shouted.
"Does he live?" Beowulf asked.

"Aye, but just barely," Corrin said in a serious tone from where he stood, "We should get him back to the others immediately. Let us help the girl lift him."

The group hefted the heavy man onto Izrênna's horse, and Izrênna boosted herself up behind him. The other two stood a ways off and spoke quietly for a moment, Izrênna knew not what about, then they came and mounted up.

"Let us go back to camp," Beowulf said, "We must give Deorlin aid."

Thank you very much! smilies/smile.gif

Gryphon

Wanna bet, thought both Béowulf and Léod.

My characters, being from Rohan, would not actually use, um, 'hobbit lingo'. But what the hey! smilies/biggrin.gif They probably said something to that effect in their minds. Thanks bro!

Bethberry

Ælfritha rode next to Malienna and Maikadurion, in single file, followed by Currin, Estel, and Anglachel in the rear.

It's Béowulf. smilies/tongue.gif Anyway, thank you very much for keeping my characters alive and active.

Well, I'll be doing some reading and will find a way to make a good post!

Hennaid evyr!
Estel

[Amanaduial the archer]

And we were just getting to the interesting part, where Sadbh reveals that her child is really the heir of Slytherin, destined to rule all the band, and our young hero Kane, troubled by the death of his father, learns something which will change his life forever... All this and more on the next episode of "All my Horse-Thieves."

lol, didnt see that the first time around. LMAO!

[VanimaEdhel]

Estel: No problem! Happy to look after Beowulf! He is easy to manage and doesn't fuss too much. I'd be happy to babysit again!

And I Private Messaged Deorlin asking where, in the name of Manwe, he's hiding.

[Lugbúrz]

I have been waiting for an opportune moment to post for over a week now, but find it hard to do so with the "saves" and Bethberry's post far ahead of where the thieves seem to be yet.

I will be glad to tie things together 'loosely' and end the game, but do not want to upset anyone's personal interest.

Please let me know what is to be done,
Lug

PS: Bethberry, I sent you a PM. I hope it did not get lost, but I understand if you'd like to reply to it at leisure.

[Garen LiLorian]

Deorlin's MIA. PM Sadbh (who seems to be his sister) for details, but unless we hear differently, I'd say we'll be missing him for a few days.

[VanimaEdhel]

Sabh told me to man Deorlin's character, probably for the rest of the RP, so I will attempt to do so.

I send my best wishes and a healing chant to Deorlin. Sabh: tell him to relax and to not get himself further hurt by trying to do things he is not able to do (such as trying to sit up long enough to type on a computer in Role-Playing Games)! My love and wishes to you and Deorlin!

[Orofacion of the Vanyar]

All,

RL engagements snuck up and pounced me this last week or so and I am just now getting through them. My apologies for the unannounced absence.

Theives,

I've PMed you all.

[Bêthberry]

While there has been some good recent interest, this game is lagging on way, way too long. It was intended to be a two-week bit of fun during the holidays. And now that people are back to a regular schedule, we seem to be having great difficulties with consistent posting and coordinating strategy. A short game requires focus and concentration and for various reasons that is becoming more and more difficult. No one's fault--RL just intrudes rudely at times.

This is quite frustrating for everyone, I'm sure. I see some recent interest, but doubt if this is enough. I am quite tempted to tell Lug to do a wrap up post. If I don't see concerted work bringing events up to the place where the thieves take the barge across the river by Tuesday, January 28 at 10 pm BD site time, Lug and I will post a conclusion and I will close the game on Wednesday.

(Events can be handled through a 'flashback' post at the site I placed everyone. See my most recent post on the Rohan RPG as Ulfwine for an example of a flashback post.)

There's been many great posts and interesting characters in the game. I've enjoyed gaming with those of you who are new here and with those I've gamed with before. I hope to see you again in new games.

Bethberry

[Sadbh]

GAH! My life has suddenly become a turbulent sea of frothy frothiness. My brother (Deorlin) had an emergency on Thursday and went into surgery (coincidently the same day my newest sister was born- fun fun). Absolutely no lie! Really!

And now on top of it I find out my child is the heir of Slytherin and why didn't I know this? smilies/wink.gif Have you had somebody check out your fevered forehead, Garen?( smilies/tongue.gif)

Maybe if I stick my head into a Belgian waffle iron I can squeeze a post out... I don't really know. smilies/tongue.gif

Argh! Brain... ceasing... function... oh wait, not yet, anyways.

smilies/wink.gif

[Airerûthiel]

Zoinks! Better post big climatic 'confrontation-with-guard-of-Gondor' thing for Maikadurion...drum roll please everybody! *crosses her fingers in the hope that her idea for drawing the 'planned' - and I stress the word planned - saga to a close works*

[Amanaduial the archer]

Zoinks?!

[Maikadilwen]

I'm at work, using a computer I'm actually not allowed to use, so I'll make this short!

Changing the broken parts in my computer, made the entire system break down and it wouldn't even start. I have someone working very hard on the problem, but I may be without a puter for a day or maybe the rest of the week. Which means that I can't really participate any longer.

Bethberry, all, I'm so very sorry. Good luck with the rest of the Ride. If I can't make it back to kill Rhana myself, please give the little b*tch what she deserves, OK? smilies/evil.gif

[Amanaduial the archer]

She dies?! Well, can Ulfeg kill her then. Cos then Kane has even more reason for some serious payback when Ulfeg turns...

[VanimaEdhel]

However you want Izrênna and Deorlin to meet up with you is fine with me. I don't know whether Deorlin would mind his character dying, but I do not think he would. I just do not want to be the one to kill him off...

They are nearing you now, so it should not take too long on the way back to meet up with them again...

[Bêthberry]

Sadbh, please give Deorlin our wishes for a speedy recovery. I hope he can return to the Downs soon.

Kiara is ill again, so Lug will be carrying her character. Once he and I have confirmed the specifics, and once all those saves are filled in, he and I will post and then I'll close the game. PM me if you have any last minute requests. smilies/wink.gif

No more posts now unless from Lug or me. Then, we're history.

Best wishes All.
Bethberry

[Lugbúrz]

Bethberry

That feels like life renewed to a destitute leper who was unable to use his pen!

I will be easily able to coordinate this with you and provide suitable closure to this perilous jaunt. I will follow after your post tomorrow.

Also, thank you for your kind PM and salutary advice.

[Airerûthiel]

So presumably that means no flashbacks or anything?

Amanduial, i apologise for the 'zoinks' thing...i kinda went into crazy scooby-doo mode (don't ask...)

[Amanaduial the archer]

Lol, seems youre not the only one. On another board I go to theres a whole board called "Jinkies".
*sigh*...

[VanimaEdhel]

No more posts now unless from Lug or me. Then, we're history.

Parting is such sweet sorrow...

Oi vey, I sometimes even make myself sick. I'm sorry...

I leave Izrenna and Deorlin in your able hands, Bethberry! Not that I have much choice, but I would have done so anyway!

[Amanaduial the archer]

Woah, a rather swift and brutal end to Gormel- that has gotta hurt...

[Airerûthiel]

*plays the Funeral March on air violin* RIP Maikadurion son of Théomer! May your time in the Grey Havens be one of peace and happy memories, and may you find the family you lost as a child once more. *has a weird feeling only she feels depressed at this necessary killing-off*

Just a query: do Elves go to the Grey Havens when they die or not? My Middle-earth knowledge is a little sketchy currently...

Edit: Oh wait, Maikadurion's not really an Elf (well, he is but he isn't, if you know what I mean)...but I'm guessing he probably wouldn't go to the Grey Havens 'cause he's mortal

[ February 01, 2003: Message edited by: Airerûthiel ]

[Maikadilwen]

OK, I'm finally somewhat back up and running.
Looks like I'm not of much use here, though.

Airerûthiel , loved your post. A bit of a surprise, I must say. smilies/eek.gif

[Estel the Descender]

I finally filled my save! I apologise for the length: Gryphon and I have combined our contributions and I did not notice how long our augmented post was until we were finished. smilies/tongue.gif Sorry people!

Airerûthiel

I hope you did not mind me making your character do something heroic before he dies. Like, being half-elven, I expected him to do something really cool before the end. Too bad that his brother had to be his doom. smilies/frown.gif

Just a query: do Elves go to the Grey Havens when they die or not? My Middle-earth knowledge is a little sketchy currently...

Edit: Oh wait, Maikadurion's not really an Elf (well, he is but he isn't, if you know what I mean)...but I'm guessing he probably wouldn't go to the Grey Havens 'cause he's mortal


Actually, when elves 'die' their spirits went to the Halls of Mandos and then they would be, well, 'reborn'

The Elves were not subject to disease, but they could be 'slain': that is their bodies could be destroyed, or mutilated so as to be unfit to sustain life. But this did not lead naturally to 'death': they were rehabilitated and reborn and eventually recovered memory of all their past: they remained 'identical'.
Letter draft to Rhona Beare (continuation to letter 211) by JRR Tolkien

The Elves. . . are therefore 'immortal'. Not 'eternally', but to endure with and within the created world, while its story lasts. When 'killed', by the injury or destruction of their incarnate form, they do not escape from time, but remain in the world, either discarnate, or being re-born. This becomes a great burden as the ages lengthen, especially in a world in which there is malice and destruction (I have left out the mythological form which Malice or the Fall of the Angels takes in this fable).
Letter 181 by JRR Tolkien

Men, and half-elves, once they die their spirits are freed from this cycle of reincarnation. In other words, being human entitled one to instant 'Nirvana' from the point of view of the elves.

Elves, however, go to the Grey Havens before the death of their mortal bodies when they get tired of the world.

Everyone

I apologise once again for the extremely long post on page 2 of the RPG.

Estel i-Dhadrantor

[ February 02, 2003: Message edited by: Estel the Descender ]

[Maikadilwen]

So, what's happening now? IS anything going to happen?

[Bêthberry]

Greetings All,

I 've been waiting for those SAVE posts to be filled in.

Airerûthiel, nicely done indeed. You handled our "back room" planning really well. And you actually now have another character to present at The Horse! Clever.

Lugbúrz, that was a very well done first post. I anticipate there will be one more from you, wherein your character deals the final blow.

Because the game is concluding, I have asked Estel and Gryphon Hall to edit their very nicely interlaced post so that their characters die--OR, at the very least, the post must be vague and equivocal, so that there is no clear statement of whether they live or die. There is no time, unfortunately, to recover them and work with the final scene as well.

My next post will see Izrenna and Deorlin catch up to Ælfritha and Malienna. Deorlin will exsanguinate by the river side while Izrenna, Malienna, and Aelfritha fight with the strange Gondorian. He will kill Izrenna and Malienna, but will be stopped from killing Ælritha as well by Anglalchel's arrival. Anglachel, as a merchant headed for Gondor, will know this man, and the two will depart for Gondor, leaving Aelfritha alone.

Thus, I have one post for this fight, Lugburz will then post the end to the thieves and make clear who stole the horses, and then I will have the final post of Ælfritha returning alone to The White Horse.

I assume Lugbúrz will be able to make his post sometime before Thursday, February 6, when I will close the game and move it to Elvenhome.

Everyone is welcome to come to The White Horse this weekend, for a gathering when Ælfritha returns there, to celebrate a successful game. We had many interruptions, and many kinds of interruptions, but everyone covered from them well.

Again, if anyone has any questions or concerns, PM me. (Psst, this might mean Maika and Aman.)

Bethberry

[ February 03, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Amanaduial the archer]

Lol, very subtle hint there Bethberry. Well, my computer is being a but wierd at the moment and I can only seem to be able to open a certain amount of windows, so I cant open the PM window right at the moment. Just one question; what exactly are we meant to be doing now on the RP?

[Lugbúrz]

Bethberry,

Yes, I was hoping to have one more post after you bring the pursuers on par. Depending on how you place them, I will deal with them appropriately. If you would like me to carry the characters instead, just allude to it in your post and I'll try to barge into them. smilies/wink.gif

I have a rather tragic scene in mind for the end, glad you liked the first post.

smilies/evil.gif

[Bêthberry]

Read my posts above, Aman. It's all laid out. I was giving you and Maika the option, since Maika's computer was broken, of making a final post if you had alread planned something.

Lug, I will postion us and then you can finish your work. I look forward to seeing your post.

Bethberry

[VanimaEdhel]

*Claps for Bethberry, even before she sees the actual post* Bravo! This sounds just as good as the fight scenes in "Gangs of New York" (that was such a good movie)!

[Airerûthiel]

Estel the Descender, thanks for your help with the Middle-earth afterlife - that was very useful information to me. Also, no of course I don't mind you making Maikadurion do something heroic just before he dies - it fits his personality.

Bethberry, am I right in presuming that 'the strange Gondorian' you mentioned in your second-to-last post is Maikadurion's brother? Just asking out of curiosity...

[Amanaduial the archer]

Erkle. I, um, kind of havent planned ahead... Maika, Lugburz, over to you!

[VanimaEdhel]

Izrenna's shrieks grew louder until they were stifled by a second thrust of the bloodied sword, into her heart,

Well that was quick...this is beginning to sound like a Shakespearian tragedy: everyone dies...or like Gangs of New York, come to think of it...

[Estel the Descender]

Because the game is concluding, I have asked Estel and Gryphon Hall to edit their very nicely interlaced post so that their characters die--OR, at the very least, the post must be vague and equivocal, so that there is no clear statement of whether they live or die. There is no time, unfortunately, to recover them and work with the final scene as well.

I'm glad that has been made clear. I'm editing the post, with Gryphon's permission, of course. Am about to PM now.

Vague, huh? smilies/evil.gif smilies/tongue.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[Bêthberry]

No, Airerûthiel. The brothers' fight took place away from this scene of action. I am assuming that there is a Gondorian guard who watched the river bank as the barge took off as extra protection. His job was to ensure there were no witnesses.

Bethberry

[Lugbúrz]

If anyone has been inadvertently left out or something is amiss, please let me know. I will most likely be able to edit the post one time before the thread is closed.

See you all around, and in happier times. smilies/smile.gif

[Amanaduial the archer]

That was beautiful Lugburz. That was really a fantastic end post. And Rhana dying in Kanes arm....*wipes away real tears, no I am quite serious...*

Its been a pleasure playing with you all, a first time playing with most of you, all but two methinks. I look forward to playing with any or all of you again.

Farewell my friends, fellow horse thieves and those who followed, farewell.

[Maikadilwen]

And Rhana dying in Kanes arm....*wipes away real tears, no I am quite serious...*

Ah, yes that's very sweet and all...

I just hope Kane never finds out that she was ready to sacrifice his butt in order to save her own! smilies/biggrin.gif

[ February 05, 2003: Message edited by: Maikadilwen ]

[Estel the Descender]

SAVED POST MODIFIED!!!

[Now I can work on my proposal. . .]

[Gryphon Hall]

Post modified.

[Airerûthiel]

*applauds* Well done to all the game members for a fantastic game! This was my first true Rohan game (well, apart from The White Horse), and my first time playing with all but two of you. Great pursuers, great horse thieves, great storyline and most of all great characters and writing. Once again, absolutely brilliant and good luck to you all!

[Bêthberry]

Thank you All for wonderful work. We faced odds of wargs, weather, more villains than we expected, and very frustrating RL interference. But we made it! I enjoyed gaming with all of you on this, Rohan's first completed RPG.

Party at The White Horse tomorrow night. I'm closing the thread now.

Bethberry