Corsairs and Corsets Discussion Thread: Part 2 [Archive] - Page 2

Nurumaiel

09-25-2003, 05:21 PM

Addruran had remained fairly silent up till the arrival of the other men, but when they arrived it was clear to Adrama that he was preparing himself to tell them about the papers in some way or another. She decided to help him a little. Standing, she gave a graceful curtsey to the men and said, "Good day, sirs. Please, do sit down. You haven't missed much talk, and the luncheon has not, naturally, begun without you." Sitting down, she smiled at Addruran. "We were just talking about Addruran's new position in Ecthelion's court."

Addruran felt relief come surging over him. Adrama had solved the problem as to how to start speaking about the important papers. Putting a smug look on his face, he nodded.

Brigon grinned rather hesitantly at Addruran. "This is new to me," he said. "What happened that gained you this new position?"

"I am in charge of delivering an important message from Ecthelion," Addruran replied. "I don't have it with me to show you; it's near the door on top of my cloak. But I remember what it says perfectly. It is an order to attack the corsairs, to say it shortly."

"Are you sure Ecthelion won't mind you telling this to us?" Athadan asked.

Addruran, in an attitude of extreme carelessness, said lightly, "Oh, he won't mind."

Adrama choked on a biscuit she had taken from a plate while no one was looking, and Pelien looked at her sternly, reprimanding her for taking the biscuit before they'd begun to eat and threatening to give the plan away at the same time. While Pelien wasn't looking, Adrama stretched out to put the biscuit back, but it slipped from her hand and rolled under the feet of Athadan. She paused for a few moments, then looked up, to find with a shock that Vieana was looking at her. But the lady of Dol Amroth smiled reassuringly at her, and Adrama decided then and there that she would be fast friends with the three ladies from that moment onward.

"-very important, yes," Addruran was saying. "If they should fall into the wrong hands, Ecthelion would surely behead me. However, I know I can trust all of you. That is why I tell you all this. If I thought any of you might be willing to sell that note for much money, or even be a spy for the corsairs, I would not tell you."

"It's very flattering that you put so much trust in us, Addruran," Aranarth said sincerely. "I hope all of us shall live up to your expectations, and I believe that none of us will disappoint you. But all the same, are you sure it is wise to tell everyone this?"

While Addruran made a very weak reply, Adrama crossed Aranarth off her list of suspects. He had really meant what he had just said, and he couldn't be the spy. Of course, if he were as good an actor as he were a spy, things could be different. Brigon had acted a little nervous when he had heard of Addruran's new position, but that was foolishness. He couldn't have known that 'new position' was the result of an 'attack on the corsairs.' Please let the spy be found out soon, Adrama thought. And don't let be Addruran be hurt when they're surrounding him. Please, don't let Addruran be hurt. She had suddenly realized how dangerous it was for Addruran to be hunting this spy. If the latter was armed, Addruran could be hurt. He was very brave...

Something flickered inside of her, but she drove it away. That was foolishness, and it couldn't be true.

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

Hope that's all right! Off to edit my other post now and correct the errors in it.

alaklondewen

09-25-2003, 08:37 PM

I'm sorry I'm not able to get anything up tonight...I have a paper due tomorrow, but I will have something for you tomorrow afternoon or early evening.

Child of the 7th Age

09-25-2003, 09:38 PM

Thanks Alak for letting us know. And good luck with your work for school. We'll look forward to your post.

Nuru - That looks fine. What a terrible braggard Addruran is. smilies/biggrin.gif

I'll wait till Alak posts to paste them both on the game thread and weave them together as needed.

Cami

[ September 25, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Everdawn

09-26-2003, 06:34 PM

Ealasaide: Thanks for taking Vieana along! you saved my life!

Wow, this little party that is going on looks very interesting....

Orofaniel

09-27-2003, 09:00 AM

Hi!

I know I haven't been writing lately in this RPG, but just tell me if you want me to post a post for the maid, Betuli.

I've read the RPG so, just give me a 'hint' and I'll do a post.

Thanks smilies/wink.gif

alaklondewen

09-27-2003, 06:10 PM

Sorry about the time issue, but here is the post. Please let me know if anything needs editing.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Pelien sat motionless in her high-backed chair listening to the sound of the guards in the next room with her husband. When she watched them filing through the door just moments before, the reality and significance of what was happening in her own home left her in an almost dazed state. Thankfully, Adrama had taken the young ladies into another room, so she didn’t have to hide her nervousness. For the first time, Pelien thoroughly contemplated the possibilities of who the spy might be and what would happen if and when he was caught. What if we can’t catch him? I will be a disgrace in the Steward’s eyes. Her long fingers squeezed the arms of the chair until her knuckles were white. She’d never considered what would happen if they were unsuccessful this afternoon, or what if…What if he lashes out violently? If violence occurred she hoped that Sador would stay out of it. Even though she knew he was a fully capable and respectable soldier, he was her love and she didn’t want him in any danger. Pelien let the air she had been unconsciously holding slowly escape through her lips.

Sador and Addruran returned from the garden and while Pelien’s husband paused next to his wife, Addruran, who looked almost giddy to Pelien, instinctively went in search of Adrama. With one eyebrow raised, Pelien looked up at her husband, but Sador’s only reply was a warm, handsome smile and the gentle squeeze of his hand on her shoulder. As soon as Sador offered his hand to help Pelien up from the chair, Rummel appeared in the doorway announcing that the remainder of the guests was currently coming up the walkway. Pelien inhaled deeply and grasped Sador’s still-outstretched hand. Nodding at one another with the same look of encouragement, Sador and Pelien entered the foyer to greet their guests.

Three young men in full uniform crossed the threshold taking their hats off as they entered. Their faces automatically lifted as their eyes wandered over the décor of Sador and Pelien’s home.

“Welcome to our home, Gentlemen. I’m so glad you were able to join us this afternoon.” Pelien stood proud and tall as she smiled amiably at the young men. Adrama, who must have heard her mother’s voice, led the ladies from Dol Amroth into the foyer to meet their companions for the afternoon. “Oh, good, Ladies, I would like you to meet Brigon, Athadan, and Aranarth.” The guards each nodded respectfully as his name was spoken, and the young ladies smiled charmingly batting their eyelashes. “Here we have the Ladies Averyll, Elen, and Vieana.” Each of the ladies offered her hand, and the young men seemed eager to take them. “Sador, would you mind showing the men to the cloak room, so they can lay down their cloaks and weapons?”

“Of course I don't mind, Dear.” Pelien watched as her husband led the guards around the corner to the cloak room. As soon as they were out of sight, she threw Addruran a questioning glance. He nodded answering her without words…the trap had been set.

In just a moment the men returned. “Now let us proceed to the dining room where we may speak more comfortably.” Pelien smiled the gracious smile of an experienced hostess, and after taking her husband’s arm, she led them to the dining table that was lavishly set for the luncheon. The mannerly men remained standing until the women were seated, and Rummel and her sister immediately began pouring wine for all the guests.

[ September 27, 2003: Message edited by: alaklondewen ]

*Varda*

09-28-2003, 07:29 AM

Not being really sure what I should post, I just have Elena going to see how Dryea is feeling. Just let me know if it interferes with anything else, and I can edit it.

Child of the 7th Age

09-28-2003, 09:53 AM

Nuru, Alak,

Your posts are up. Now we will wait to see what the spy does.

Cami

piosenniel

09-28-2003, 03:09 PM

Your spy now has the letter, and is on the loose, and apparently armed with his wits and his blades . . .

~~ Pio smilies/evil.gif

[ September 28, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Child of the 7th Age

09-28-2003, 05:52 PM

Whoops! This wasn't exactly part of my plans. That crazy spy has escaped with the dispatch! smilies/eek.gif

Nurumaiel, please see your pms as soon as possible! smilies/wink.gif

Cami

Nurumaiel

09-28-2003, 06:19 PM

Child

Thanks for the save! I'll see if I can finish the post today.

So, at last the spy is revealed, as well as the one who will be playing him! Hello, Pio. smilies/biggrin.gif

EDIT: Manardariel, your PM box is full so I'm contacting you this way. What you said sounded absolutely fine. I'd much appreciate if you altered Denethor's dialog, but I haven't a problem with Finduilas. After all, Adrama thought mucht the same thing of Finduilas' sister and her friends! smilies/smile.gif Thanks for your quick response and ready help.

[ September 28, 2003: Message edited by: Nurumaiel ]

Nurumaiel

09-29-2003, 12:49 PM

My post is up! Acting on Pio's instructions, I had Athadan attack Addruran. smilies/biggrin.gif Just let me know when you'd like me to do the Addruran and Adrama scene.

Novnarwen

09-29-2003, 01:37 PM

I have posted too. I thought it was important to get Sador's view of the whole Addruran-Adrama thingy. Anyway, Alak-do you want a scene where Pelien and Sador are together discussing the marrige between the two of them?

This will of course not take place until Addruran has asked Adrama... smilies/biggrin.gif

Thanks!

*nova* smilies/biggrin.gif

Child of the 7th Age

09-30-2003, 12:01 AM

Eckthelion has now made arrangements for a little something to surprise Dryea at the betrothal party....

One way or another, we need to finish this game this weekend. smilies/eek.gif I will post the beginning of the betrothal party tomorrow afternoon. I will also include several saves before the party starts in case anyone has unfinished business -- marriage proposals and such.

Please remember that everyone will be told Athedan's arrest was a dreadful mistake. Only Addruran and Lady Pelien and her family will actually be told the truth by Eckthelion. Of course it is possible that others will suspect....

Maika - Get your "party" post ready that we discussed.

Elora - Get your "rescue" post ready.

We could also use a reflection or two by Alethea!

Anyone else is welcome to sneak in with you two cents before the game winds up!

Cami

Elora

09-30-2003, 01:07 AM

Okey Dokey....

Hmmmm, who will Ruiel rescue? Anyone other than herself? :evil

Nurumaiel

09-30-2003, 10:33 AM

Should I put up a SAVE for Addruran's talk and proposal to Adrama? Alak and Alethea, do you think we can get Pelien's short arguement and the meeting of the two girls done really, really soon? I consider those two scenes rather essential to the game, and wouldn't want them to be passed over in our rush! smilies/eek.gif

Child of the 7th Age

09-30-2003, 11:21 AM

Just a general comment....if anyone thinks that they might need a save, go ahead and put it up. If you don't use it, I'll simply erase it before the game is hauled off to Elvenhome.

While we normally like to have saves filled in within 24 hours, I realize this is a special situation, and, if your schedule is busy, you might be completing your posts on the weekend.

Remember too that I can slot posts into any box with your name written in. Just paste the post on the discussion thread with a note, and tell me where you'd like to see it go (date, time, first or last post in the box).

sharon

[ September 30, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Lyra Greenleaf

09-30-2003, 02:46 PM

Is there anything that Emilia could do in the coming up posts? Right now I feel a bit lost. If there's nothing specific that might be her last post.

Child of the 7th Age

09-30-2003, 03:13 PM

Lyra,

I sympathize. It has been so hard to hold a game this large together with everyone understanding what's going on and feeling part of it.

One thing does come to mind, both for you and the other characters... The betrothal party itself might be a "good time" to make up with Finduilas and/or the women from the "other camp". You allude to this in your post. The latter is true for characters from both sides of the fence.

Since we now have a limited time frame, I would suggest doing this in a single post, having them answer politely. I don't think anyone would object at this point, as long as you don't make someone who's not your character jump off the roof or anything ridiculous! I think this would be possible for all the folk in this story.

It's not required but it would give us more of a sense of closure. The other possibilty would be to go up and welcome Alethea to Gondor. She will probably be secretly relieved that her family has gotten away and she is free to stay.

(The Steward will do a welcoming speech.)

Don't know if this helps.

Cami

Child of the 7th Age

09-30-2003, 03:20 PM

Late tonight I should have the post up opening the betrothal party....

I have saved a few spaces and can slot other posts in as needed. Go ahead and save something if you think you'll need to straighten out some problems prior to the party.

Cami

Elora

09-30-2003, 05:58 PM

Just so that you know, Ruiel won't appear until the chips fall. I shan't be posting until after Dryea is captured as there is little Ruiel can do aside from fill in time. S

he's already in her office scheming and I see little to be achieved by expanding on that. Only distracts from the many other things that are occuring in the conclusion of this RP.

However, if anyone had need of Ruiel in their final throes, please let me know.

Child of the 7th Age

09-30-2003, 11:50 PM

The betrothal party has begun. Please make yourself comfortable--eat, drink, and chat--until the hapless Lady Dryea will arrive...

Cami

Nurumaiel

10-01-2003, 10:55 AM

Alak

Here's what I plan to do. I'm going to fill in my SAVE today, with the Addruran/Adrama scene and where Adrama goes to meet with Alethea. You can PM me your post and I'll put it in between my two posts. Then Arien can either use one of Child's saves or PM a post to me.

That sound all right? I'm off to get to work on it now.

~Nuru

alaklondewen

10-01-2003, 10:57 AM

Cami,

Would you mind slipping this post into the September 29th SAVE? Thank you.

Nuru,

We cross posted. I think that sounds great. I will wait to read the first of your posts, of course, before I produce a finished product. Although, I believe I already know what Pelien will say about the news.

***************
While her guests were moving out to the gardens, Pelien stayed behind to give Rummel orders about cleaning up and the possibility of wine afterwards, but before she could explain herself thoroughly, voices broke out from the cloak room causing Pelien’s heart to jump into her throat. It’s happening! It’s happening! At first her body was frozen, unknowing what she should do or precautions she should make. Then slowly the hostess, with Rummel at her side, peeked around the dining room doorway. She was unable to see directly into the room from where she stood but the soldier who had been knocked to his knees was in her line of vision. As soon as she heard someone cry that Athadan had leaped from the window, Pelien, relieved he was out of her house, scurried down the hall to aid the kneeling soldier.

As she neared the room, the blood coming from the man’s arm was first seen by Pelien and she gasped. “Oh dear, you’re injured! Let me help you up.” The young man shook his head, saying that he was fine and that it was only a minor cut, and then preceded to get up from his spot on the floor. Shouting was heard coming from outside, and the soldier quickly excused himself and rushed toward the commotion.

Pelien let her eyes fall to where she found the young soldier. A moment later, she cried out…a large smear of blood was on her rug. The color drained from her face as she fell to her knees.

“Rummel, quick! We must get this out before it sets!” Pelien wrung her hands as she waited for Rummel to return. She didn’t want to touch the stain, but she was anxious to have it removed.

Rummel arrived shortly with a bucket of hot water and several rags. As the girl sat over the rug scrubbing, Pelien suddenly remembered what was transpiring around her, and after her moments of insanity, the older woman pick up her skirts and hurried out to the gardens through the kitchen door. When her eyes saw Sador, she sighed a sigh a relief and slowed her step. As long as her husband was uninjured, and her daughter as well, Pelien could accept the rest.

[ October 01, 2003: Message edited by: alaklondewen ]

Nurumaiel

10-01-2003, 01:23 PM

Alak

My save is filled in. I structured my posts before and after yours to give the impression that, while Pelien secretly agrees with the idea, at the moment she's raising some protests for pride's sake, as she's been arguing a long while against the marriage. I hope this is correct.

Arien, you're on.

I'll do a ball post later. Manardariel, would it be all right for Adrama to say a few words of apology to Finduilas? This wouldn't mean a post by you, but I'd like the permission to carry on with it.

Manardariel

10-01-2003, 02:50 PM

Hey everyone....
I just want to say, Yall have done an awesome job on this game! Now, due to reasons beyond my reach (family stuff, don´t ask) I can´t be there for the last week! I´m terribly sorry and hope this game goes well!!!
Everyone, have a great time- thanks for everything. Words can´t express how much I owe to you, and your experience. Thanx for everything.
-Manan

Child of the 7th Age

10-01-2003, 03:56 PM

Nuru - and anyone else,

Since Manaradariel is gone, feel free to use Finduilas in your ending posts any way you need to....

Alak - I'll paste that post up this evening.

Cami

[ October 01, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Arien

10-02-2003, 02:41 PM

Here is my post for Alethea's and Adrama's conversation. Nuru, I think it would be best if you placed it afeter you most recent post.

"Adrama, I must talk to you. Things are so horrible!" Alethea’s voice dropped to hushed whisper. "There's something I must tell you."

Adrama took her hand and said in a reassuring voice, "I know what it is, Alethea."

"You know?" Relief and surprise flooded in to Alethea’s heart. But how did she know? . "Oh, but how could you possibly know? Everything has been planned so carefully, and..."

"You don't need to worry about it," Adrama said crisply. "You're the spy, and that's that. We can't do anything about it now."

Alethea looked shocked. "Oh no, Adrama, that's not it at all!" she cried. Disbelief spread over Adrama's face. Alethea hesitated a few moments more, and then she began to speak as the two began to walk through the Gardens.

“I am not the spy, nay. But I did have some work in the treachery. You know about it?” Adrama nodded her head. So if she knew the others did as well. Alethea thought of Dryea snug in false security.

Oh how she would relish the moment that her sister would fall from grace and her mother with her.

“I,” Alethea voice faltered a little but she kept speaking, “I am the spy’s sister…” She looked across to Adrama. Her face held an expression of shock.

“Dryea, but…” She started.

“Yes it is she. Her poisonous have entered your minds and numbed them. No –one could ever guess that it was she. Her air of innocence and her sweetness is too good to be true.” Alethea stopped and looked to Adrama. If her sister were false would she believe that their friendship was an act too? She looked towards Adrama again for reassurance but her eyes looked ahead.

“But..” started Alethea.

“Yes?”

“You must know that our friendship is not a fake!”

“I would never have thought such a thing; or at least I hope it was not.”

“And even though they tried to make me use you, I never did. I could never do it.”

Adrama smiled, “Thank you.” She spoke softly. Alethea was relived that Adrama believed her. If her only friend would not then Alethea would have been distraught. “But tell me something, Alethea. Why never before have you told me or anyone in fact about your sisters deceitfulness?”

“It was not only Dryea, my mother as well. I loved them; they were my family. I could not do that to them. But with recent goings on I could not bare it anymore. They went even as far as to kill!” Alethea finished exasperatedly.

“To kill?” Asked Adrama shocked, “ But who?”

“Rhir, “ Alethea replied solemnly.

“But Dryea..he…”

“I know, but I do not know which one of them did it.”

They talked for a while more and Alethea revealed everything to Adrama about their false life in Gondor and their real heritage. About the plot to shame Finduilas and her arguments with Dryea. Adrama was so understanding and Alethea was shocked to come into contact with such a warm heart; after all the coldness she had received at home.

“But I know not what to do,” Alethea finished finally.

Adrama paused, “You must go to someone. Eckthelion perhaps?”

“Yes I will,” Alethea said firmly. She could not have faith in the fact that she was going to tell him. But what would happen to her? If Dryea was caught and her mother, surely she would be caught with them. She had been a part of these lies and deceit. And even if she had not controlled it she still had had the power to turn them in. And if she was not punished, then what? She no longer had a family, and could the people of Minas Tirith or even Gondor trust her again?
But she must tell him; it was certainly the right thing to do. After a quick farewell to Adrama she made her way back to the Estate to get ready for the ball.

Thanks,

Arien

[ October 02, 2003: Message edited by: Arien ]

Nurumaiel

10-02-2003, 03:41 PM

Arien

It's in place.

Alak

I still need the post from you. Just send it to me whenever it's ready.

Child of the 7th Age

10-02-2003, 05:14 PM

Alak,

I just pasted your earlier post into the game thread. Sorry it took so long. I've had a toothache all week ( smilies/mad.gif ) so things aren't getting done the way they normally would. I've been to the dentist so hopefully that is behind me.

Cami

maikafanawen

10-03-2003, 07:39 PM

I can't open the 7th page of the RPG thread!!!

PANICKING!!! smilies/eek.gif

-Maikafanawen smilies/wink.gif

alaklondewen

10-03-2003, 09:08 PM

Don't panic, Maika. The seventh page is the white page of death, but the sixth page is the last page in the game. So, you aren't missing anything. smilies/wink.gif

alaklondewen

10-04-2003, 12:13 PM

Nuru- sorry, about taking so long, but here is Pelien's argument. I have dialogue for Adrama, so please tell me if anything needs to be changed.

Nova-I'm going to try to get another post out that will bring Pelien and Sador to the betrothal party. I will start the conversation about the marriage there, is that okay?
********************

"He asked me to marry him, Mother, and... and I told him I would.” Adrama stood before her mother with solid determination knowing well that Pelien would not approve of this marriage engagement.

Pelien caught her breath and tried to remain as calm as she could while concealing her shock. How had this happened? Surely, Adrama was not seriously going to marry Addruran. There had been strong chemistry that was visible between the young man and Adrama, but after all of these years of hoping her daughter would marry the future Steward, Pelien didn’t know if she could accept another man as her son-in-law.

“You told him you would marry him without even asking for my consent or at least a hint that this was coming?” Pelien’s voice was full of accusation as she stared into her daughter’s eyes. Adrama should have asked for her mother’s permission in this matter, and anger was rising in Pelien’s chest as she thought about being left out of this delicate process.

“Mother, I am an adult…I do not need your permission to marry Addruran, and for the record, I did not know myself that he was going to propose.” Adrama spoke slowly and softly seeing the resentment in her mother’s face. This was a moment she would remember for the rest of her life, and she didn’t desire to feel the brunt of Pelien’s fury. “I’ve realized I love him, and I intend on marrying him.”

“But Adrama, he’s not good enough for you. You…you’re fit to be the Steward’s wife, why…”

“But you forget, Mother, the Steward already has a wife. He has made his choice, and I have made mine.” Pelien was taken aback by Adrama’s interruption and the seriousness of her tone.

“I see…I still feel that you should reconsider your decision. What if you tell him you need more time to think? Then we can talk about this when emotions are not so…high.” Pelien reached out and touched Adrama’s arm gently. All she wanted was for her daughter to think this marriage through before she jumped into something she’d regret for the rest of her life. Maybe if the girl could be stalled, Pelien could change her mind…make her realize her mistake.

piosenniel

10-04-2003, 12:55 PM

The Game has now been flipped over to Page 7 - please don't delete any posts from Page 6 until the Game is done.

The mods will go through and do that once the game is done and ready for Elvenhome.

Novnarwen

10-04-2003, 02:49 PM

Nova-I'm going to try to get another post out that will bring Pelien and Sador to the betrothal party. I will start the conversation about the marriage there, is that okay?

That's fine by me. smilies/biggrin.gif I am waiting eagerly for you next post!

*nova* smilies/biggrin.gif

maikafanawen

10-04-2003, 04:15 PM

Okay, Cami: When should Ruiel & Dryea arrive?

Elora: Do you want to bring us to the party?

Arien: Will Alethea return home and attend the party with her sister and mother? Or what did you have in mind...

-Maikafanawen

Child of the 7th Age

10-04-2003, 07:11 PM

Maika,

Elora had said earlier that she won't post until Dryea gets in a jam. In fact she implied Rueil won't be at the ball since she mentioned she was in her office scheming. Once Dryea is captured and she hears about it, she will presumably be getting the other agents who will help her free you.

Definitely go ahead and have your character arrive at the party now by herself (or with your sister if that is appropriate). Don't worry about the timing. Remember that I can plug in an endless number of posts in any space so folk can have their posts pasted in earlier if needed.

If possible, I'd like to see the scene up by Sunday where Dryea makes her blunder with Athadan.

Note to everyone: If there is a problem with post placement, put your posts on the discussion thread and tell me exactly where you want them by date and time, before or after the existing post, or in a blank save space.

Arien, Alak- You both have posts on the discussion thread. Do you want me to put those up or will Nurumaiel do that? Please let me know the exact space by date and time as indicated above and I will do it.

Thanks.

Cami

[ October 04, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

alaklondewen

10-04-2003, 07:52 PM

Cami-My post should fit in Nuru's Sept. 30th post. Half way through her post there is a spot marked (Alak's Post). Thanks. smilies/smile.gif

Arien

10-05-2003, 06:19 AM

Cami, Check your PM's and my post has already been placed on the game thread by Nuru.

Maika,

After a quick farewell to Adrama she made her way back to the Estate to get ready for the ball.

Alethea will return home and go with Dryea to the ball.

[ October 05, 2003: Message edited by: Arien ]

Child of the 7th Age

10-05-2003, 09:00 AM

Arien,

Sounds good to me, but check your pms for details.

Cami

Child of the 7th Age

10-05-2003, 09:18 AM

Alak,

Your post is up. That long conversation between you, Nuru, and Arien weaves in very nicely.

Now, let's bring this baby home to the stables!

Cami

[ October 05, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Novnarwen

10-05-2003, 02:35 PM

Okay, Cami could you set this post up please. You have a save for the 4th october 2003 07:05 PM, just after Alaklondewen's post on the seventh page.

__________________________________________________ ______________________

“Oh Sador, what are we going to do?”

Pelien acted like expected; sad that her dear Adrama wouldn't marry the Steward but this Addruran. Sador hesitated. What to do, he thought. The answer was clear. They couldn't do anything, it wasn't really their business. If Adrama wanted to marry Addruran and they loved each other, then.. well...

“We join them.” Sador said after a moment of silence. “…on the dance floor,” the man continued. His wife looked oddly at him, as if he was making a joke of all this. Sador however, stood up, took her hand gently and bowed before he lead Pelien onto the floor.

Sador looked over at Adrama and her husband to-be (hopefully). He realised how happy the was for her, that she had finally found the one. Sador was also proud. "Pelien," he said whispering in her ear. "They do look wonderful together," he said nodding towards their daugher. Pelien gave a sigh. "But it wasn't meant to be..." she claimed.

"Ah well..Why not?" Sador said considering the situation carefully before asking this. He looked in his wife's deep eyes. "Don't you see? Adrama, our daughter was madly in love with Denethor, but she could still see Addruran. Which means in my opinion, that she practically saw this man when he was invisible." Sador swinged Pelien around. "And that is love, my dear wife. She saw him when she was in love with someone else."

Pelien didn't say anything, she just gazed at her husband, looking, searching; to find an answer to why he had said exactly this. Sador noticed the music stop, the dance was over....

__________________________________________________ _______________

Alaklondewen- If you like me to change anything, just ask. smilies/biggrin.gif

Thanks,

*nova* smilies/biggrin.gif

Arien

10-05-2003, 02:39 PM

I have posted for Alethea, the Stweard now knows all that she knows.

[ October 05, 2003: Message edited by: Arien ]

maikafanawen

10-05-2003, 09:07 PM

Hey, I have no idea what Dryea is supposed to do with Athadan. Will he come up to her with a note? Will she take it? What will the note say? I'm very perplexed.

But I did come up with a post for her arrival but I see that Arien's already sort of taken care of it.

Oh well, here's what it is, I guess it can go right after Arien's.

"Oh, just send them away," Dryea complained to Rheaite. The maid stood nervously by the door to the parlor room, waiting to accept the next person come to pay condolences to the grieving woman. 'They were engaged for but six hours,' they would exclaim. 'It couldn't have happened to a dearer girl.' Lady Morthaniawen squirmed with glee at their pitiful faces. She so loved putting on dramatics and watching people's reactions. It was possible that Dryea even over did some of her acts like bursting into tears at the slightest mention of some delicate subject and even resorting to throwing her glass of wine across the room and out the open window. Rheaite knew she was playing a wicked game with these people's hearts and it was all she could do from stopping her.

"My Lady," she said intrepidly after a Ms Dillirdyn and her two daughters of just down the Way had left Dryea to one of her particular outrageous fits. "If I'm not too bold, perhaps if you were less dramatic and more accepting and fallaciously thankful of these people's attempts to cheer you, your loss would be well-harbored in the citizen's own hearts." Dryea stood and turned to glare at her maid. In two strides she was towering over the young girl, her hand raised in mid-strike. A moment before the inevitable slap, there came a knock at the door. "Get it," Dryea hissed to the terrified Rheaite. "And do not mistake me for the weakling of a woman my sister is. I expect you to keep your place!" The maid answered the door, trembling violently and deathly pale.

"The Isindils are here to see Miss Dryea," the butler announced to Rheaite. "Are you alright Miss Rhe?" The maid, nodding fiercely at the butlers inquiry, relayed the message to Dryea.

"Ooh yummy!" the lady exclaimed nastily. "I was hoping they'd come." She took a seat on the settee adopting a rigid and uneasy position. "Show them in," she whispered excitedly. Dryea made her face lack and gave an overburdening grief stricken appearance to her eyes. Then silver tears streamed down her cheeks. Thus Mr. And Mrs. Isindil found her. Rhircyn's mother had also been crying.

When they entered, Dryea allowed them to see her uncomfortable state before she turned to see who they were. She summoned an even more pained expression to her face and stood slowly, making her way to Lady Amowiel. Nearly there she swooned and fell with a dainty thump to the floor.

"Quick!" Lord Gaenry said. "The poor girl's fainted!" Rheaite's anger bottled up inside of her as she ran for someone to 'help'. Lady Isindil knelt beside the girl and cradled her head in her lap, crying softly. Dryea's eyes fluttered and open. Then she too began to cry. Rheaite returned with Ruiel bursting in the lead followed by the butler and a serving girl balancing a glass of water and two pills on a silver tray.

The Isindils left soon after Dryea 'recovered'. They decided it was too soon to speak with her about their son. The young woman thanked them for coming and apologized for fainting. "It's quite all right my dear," Lord Gaenry said solemnly. "We understand." The house was gravely silent as the Isindils made their way out the doors and down the path to their carriage.

Then Rheaite started to cry out of anger and Dryea laughed at her. "Oh get out!" she yelled at the furious maid. Helpless, the girl left her mistress's company and ran down to the kitchens. Ruiel, after making sure her daughter was truly all right, absconded to her office.

"My Lady?" the new maid's voice rang like a bell as she prepared to announce the next visitor. The woman smiled, "Yes?"

"There's a Miss Elena here to see you." Dryea's expression went from surprise, to worry, to acceptance.

"Very well, show her in." Elena entered and looking pityingly at her friend. She walked over to the sofa where Dryea sat in her black dress and veil, pouring a cup of tea—she'd already had enough wine for the morning. After looking her friend up and down, she quickly determined that all was well with her and her reason for dropping in was sincere. There might have been a few questions she'd have been hoping to ask but after Dryea's 'act' she would think it better not to.

"How are you doing?" Elena whispered kindly, laying a hand on her friend's arm. Dryea took in a short quick breath and then sighed just as promptly and mournfully.

"All right, I guess," she muttered weakly. The discussion went well and Dryea kept the posing cloud of despair huddled about her snuggly and politely accepted the condolences that passed through. Once during their talk she even began to cry (again) and Elena embraced her comfortingly.

After an hour or so the student left without asking any of her curious questions, leaving Dryea in her peaceful misery. "That will do for today," Lady Morthaniawen announced. "I'll have no more visitors." She stood and took the pins out of her hat, setting it on the table by the settee. She walked over to the window and looked out over her gardens and at the slightly graying sky overhead.

"Lady Dryea," the maid said in her singsong voice. "Thy mother sends word. Ye are required to attend the ball held by his grace the Steward—" she paused to brush at her nose, Dryea laughed. "She wants ye to be ready by seven this evening." The woman nodded.

"Give my mother my accordance." Bowing, the maid left to do as Dryea bid. In lighter spirits at the girl's wise demonstration of loyalty, Lady Morthaniawen ventured up to her room on the East wing.

The dress for tonight was of midnight black silk: appropriate for her current situation. Woven here and there were dark blue flowers that emitted a pleasant fragrance. Even though the colors were dark and mournful, the style was definitely not so. It was of the latest fashion appropriately implied with lace up sleeves segmented into slight ruffles and a closefitting bodice atop a full skirt. A motif of black roses were embroidered throughout and gave it a regal appearance. "Simply splendid," Mari, Dryea's new maid, had described it. Lady Dryea thought so. It was simple enough to fit her grief-stricken condition, but splendid enough to keep her reputation of utmost majestic splendor encouraged. She finished off the ensemble with a velour ribbon tied around her slender neck in a choker fashion, plus a set of onyx earrings, bracelet and rings.

"Mademoiselle," Mari whispered in her ear after curling the last lock of auburn hair and letting it hang down her back. "You are the finest lady I've ever seen." Dryea beamed. Her hair was curled and let down except for a small portion that was pulled behind her ears and knotted in the back. This was covered by a stylish black cap adorned with a single black rose and some ebony net.

"Is the lady ready Miss Mari?" the butler inquired from without Dryea's chamber door.

"She'll be right along." Making sure she carried all the necessities to a corsair woman's outfit, including every mean of self-defense, Dryea allowed Mari to carry her black cloak, gloves, and fan to the door for her. Not long after, Alethea arrived to hear out Ruiel's final instructions.

"It's not that big of a deal girls," she informed, "but keep your eyes and ears open and stay on your best behavior." There was more and finally the two women boarded the carriage and were off to the citadel.

I have some bad news. I will not be able to post until Tuesday because I'm having a sort of last minute operation tomorrow morning and won't be home until late tomorrow night. I am so sorry for any complications I'm causing having to do with wrapping this RPG up, but real life can't be helped.

I'll be back in Tuesday some time to sort it out. Thank you for your patience. smilies/biggrin.gif

-Maikafanawen

piosenniel

10-06-2003, 12:49 AM

Novnarwen & Maikafanawen

I have placed your posts as you requested.

Elora

10-06-2003, 02:20 PM

Maikafanawen, hope everything goes OKl and you recover well. smilies/smile.gif

Child of the 7th Age

10-06-2003, 05:19 PM

Maika,

Sorry to hear about that. If you are still up and about, please check your pms.

Cami

maikafanawen

10-07-2003, 09:19 AM

Thanks everyone! It was wisdom teeth BUT ... what had happened was that a nerve had gotten "tangled" in the roots of one and the tooth was sort of stretching out the nerve. I passed out twice from the pain and it was a last minute emergency that it had to come out. And if that wasn't enough, I ended up having to have five wisdom teeth that needed removing and because my mouth is pretty small they had to do a lot of extra slicing and dicing. Not too pretty.

But anyways, they didn't touch my hand except for the IV so I can still type for as long as I'm awake. smilies/wink.gif

Okay, Cami: I got your PM, and that will work the best.

Cheers!
-Maikafanawen

Child of the 7th Age

10-07-2003, 12:25 PM

Pio,

I've closed the C & C thread. Could you check it? Have to run to a teacher conference...

I put up Ealasaide's post on 10/4 at 11:21 under Everdawn and went back to edit but the text was gone. You could see the post on the front of the screen but couldn't edit because the text was missing.

Could you check what's going on? If you think the game thread is alright, then unlock it.

Running out the door.....

Cami

[ October 07, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

piosenniel

10-07-2003, 02:08 PM

I reworked the post you had put up for Ealasaide. You must have taken it from a PM to you and posted it directly to the Game - it needed to be reworked in Word and then posted (I think the BD program gets confused easily! smilies/rolleyes.gif )

The game is probably ok now - but for safety's sake - I simply cleared out a bunch of old saves on page 6, and put in a few saves on page 7 that should be enough for the ending of the game.

_________________________________

EVERYONE WHO NEEDS TO DO A FINAL POST OR FILL IN A SAVE:

Place your post HERE on the Discussion Thread and one of the mods will transfer it to the Game. Please don't PM it to Cami.

Thanks!

~~ Pio

[ October 07, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Child of the 7th Age

10-07-2003, 02:23 PM

Pio,

Thank you. Yes, the post did come via pm. I've never had that happen before but will keep that trick in mind for the future.

Again, thanks.

Cami

Elora

10-07-2003, 02:55 PM

OK... my final post will go here. I can't begin to knock one up until I know where the relevant characters are in reference and juxtapostion to Ruiel.

Just so you know that I'm still paying attention. smilies/smile.gif

Maika.... good see you're back with us. smilies/smile.gif

piosenniel

10-07-2003, 03:01 PM

My post is up for Athadan . . . Dryea is betrayed! smilies/evil.gif

Ealasaide

10-07-2003, 03:03 PM

Oh, sorry! I didn't know that sending a post by PM was such a problem. I will not do that in the future. I just was not sure whether what I had written would fit in well with what was happening or not & wanted to run it by Cami first. My bad!

[ October 07, 2003: Message edited by: Ealasaide ]

Child of the 7th Age

10-07-2003, 04:17 PM

Ealasaide,

Check your pms. smilies/biggrin.gif

Cami

Child of the 7th Age

10-07-2003, 04:29 PM

Maika,

Dryea is on. Please check your pms and go ahead with your post.

Hope you are feeling better.

Cami

maikafanawen

10-07-2003, 08:48 PM

Thanks Cami, but on the contrary I was feeling worse for a moment there. Then I got to typing Dryea's capture and it took my mind off the pain! So here it is, I hope it will work alright.

Dryea raised a thin eyebrow as Athadan handed her the vellum. His hands shook only slightly but such was the reaction of some to Dryea's majestic presence.

"A message from Ecthelion to Thorongil, m’Lady. He has agreed to Thorongil’s request to send ships and troops south to quell any chance of problems spreading north toward Gondor." Glancing to the bottom of the sheet, Dryea approved its authenticity.

"Fine Athadan, I'll be hoping to hear from you soon with more information. We've something big on our hands." She dismissed him then with a flick of her wrist and he bowed deeply before leaving her to the alcove. She sat down on the cushioned window-seat and reviewed the contents.

It took her by surprise. What with the marriage between Denethor and Finduilas, she didn't expect Ecthelion to agree so quickly with sending troops. Perhaps things were leaking out of Umbar worse than she thought.

Rolling the vellum up and securing it again with the ribbon, she folded it into the confines of her bodice and left the alcove. Pulling a black handkerchief from her drawstring purse, she dabbed at her eyes in case anyone was watching her emerge.

Then she heard the footsteps. She knew right away that they were not just guests seeking the nearest exit for fresh air or servants on their way to the kitchens. These were the solid steps of guards; and they came from both directions. Dryea was feeling a bit nervous as she began to walk back down the stairs towards the ballroom. She looked up just in time to see the first two guards mount the stairs. They looked up and their expressions held that look of detection that identified her as whom they'd been searching for.

Without thinking she spun quickly and flew back up the stairs, fumbling for her dagger as she went. She had just closed her hands around the hilt as she ran into someone at the top of the stairs. He grabbed her wrist and applied pressure that caused to her to slacken her grip. The dagger fell to the marble floor with a hollow clatter.

"Lady Morthaniawen," said a somber voice. Dryea looked up, a strand of amber curls falling from underneath her hat. Her gaze met with Ecthelion's. His eyes were cold and full of disappointment. The regret written on his façade was so powerful that Dryea even felt a little shameful for her actions. Then her soul hardened against him and she stood ready to lie.

"My Lord!" she curtsied quickly and pried herself from the guard's grasp. "These men attacked me! I was defending myself!"

"Guards of Minas Tirith attacking you?" Ecthelion bellowed. Dryea's expression faltered and her tongue froze.

"I-I, well, yes-no! m-my Lord." Tears of frustration began to well up in her eyes.

"Yes? No? What is it!?" The Stewards stepped forward and gestured for the guards to get her back on her feet and standing level with him. At her full height she was almost as tall as he was. But she felt so much smaller. "Search her," he commanded.

The guards did so indifferently until they'd recovered the message. Confused, Dryea searched the Steward's eyes for an answer. "Athadan!" she choked. Ecthelion's expression remained placid as he weighed the vellum in his hand.

"Take her away."

"NO!" Dryea began to kick and squirm, doing her best to free herself from the guards' hold. "You can't! I-I..." She was gagged then and chains were locked on her wrists. But the struggle continued as she was taken down the back stairs to the iron carriage that awaited her.

About halfway to the door leading outside her gag ripped and she screamed once good and loud before they silenced her again. Hopefully an ally would have heard!

I wasn't sure what else to add. Hopefully that will suffice. Contact me if I'm needed further. I've had so much fun playing Dryea. Will she get one last say? Like may I put a post where she is leaving Gondor and returning to Umbar, just a last thought or something. I could have it ready by tomorrow methinks. smilies/wink.gif Thanks all!!!

-Maikafanawen

Elora

10-07-2003, 10:05 PM

OK, here's a draft Ruiel post for consideration. It may change depending on other final events. If that is so, please don't hesitate to contact me.

I'm working this up somewhat preemptively so that when the time comes I shall not hold things up. That bears an attendant risk that the state of play can change and make my draft redundant.

I forsee though, at this time, that this will be Ruiel's second last post.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rannë shot through Ruiel's door without so much as a word. Ruiel's head snapped up at the intrusion, her expression fiercely cool. It made barely a dint in her normally circumspect and level headed maid's demeanour.

"What is this," Ruiel snapped waspishly at Rannë.
"Dryea has been arrested!"

Rannë wasted no breath on curtesty titles nor tactful words. Indeed, she was still puffing from her sprint through the Manor's halls. Ruiel dropped her nib in startled surprise, ink splattering over the paper she had been working on as well as her silk gown. She ignored both stains as the ink spread darkly. Distantly in her mind, a cool voice observed that the ink very much represented the ill fortune that would undo all her work, inexorably spreaking like a cankerous disease... We are not ruined yet, Ruiel snapped back at herself.

Rannë's wide eyed expression of dismay deepened and Ruiel realised that she had spoken aloud. She abruptly stood, the furrows in her brow deepening. Gone was the cultivated air of a delicate Gondorian noblewoman. Ruiel had little use for it now. Rannë saw her mistress transform into the Umbarian Corsair she truly was, desperation and implacable will garbed in a stained silk robe and clutching an ornate golden dagger like to the one her eldest daughter had dropped.

"When did this happen," she snarled.
"Within the hour," Rannë blurted anxiously. "Dryea was taken into custody by the Steward himself."
"And what of Alethea," Ruiel probed. Rannë blinked, surprised by this sudden turn of seemingly maternal concern.

"I have heard nothing of the young Lady Morthaniawen," Rannë replied. She gasped as she watched Ruiel's expression become one of infinite rage. With one hand, Ruiel swept the contents of her desk onto the floor with a shattering crash.

"Treachery!" The accusation hung in the air. Ruiel struggled to breath through her rising violent temper and Rannë took an involuntary step backwards. The Lady Morthaniawen moved behind her chair and gripped the back of it with white knuckled hands. Rannë was certain she'd hear the crack of wood splintering soon. Such rages were rarely witnessed.

Indeed, Rannë had only seen them twice before in her many years of service to Ruiel. One had been the instrument of freeing her from the Captain. The other had lead to Lord Morthaniawen's death. Both had resulted in murder. Ruiel had not risen to her rank in Umbar's array of spies and courtisans with clean hands.

"Dispose of everything in this office."
"Everything?" All the years of work, to be destroyed. In a chill, bleak voice, Ruiel repeated herself.

"Everything." Ruiel released the back of her chair and stalked from the room, her step becoming swifter and swifter still. If Rannë was found destroying documents then so be it. She'd find a new maid sooner or later. She'd find a new household and house if it came to that.

As for her daughters and herself, that was a different matter entirely. Alethea, if she was traitor, would be protected by Eckthelion. Umbar would have to wait for it's vengeance against her treason. Dryea may possibly be saved. Ruiel had no intentions of leaving her eldest daughter, who knew so much, alive and able to speak, waiting at the Steward's leisure. Dryea would either be rescued or given the only honourable way out.

Ruiel would certainly not sit like a duck upon a glassy millpond whilst the ocean tossed and the wind howled. Too long and too much she had laboured for this. She tore the silk robe from her as she entered her room and riffled through her wardrobe. Tucked away in a dark corner was exactly what she was looking for.

When Ruiel slipped out of her room and crept her way through her house, it was as though she were a common assassin once more. Garbed in common streetwear, her hair tucked up and away in a man's hat, Ruiel melted into the steady traffic of people with only two things in her possession. One was her golden dagger. The other was her right of safe passage across Umbar's borders. No need for frippery now, and let the Steward's men find the matron of Minas Tirith's society shuffling along like a common innkeeper.

Two things were also upon her mind: Death and Freedom.

Child of the 7th Age

10-07-2003, 11:56 PM

Maika and Elora,

Great posts! I have gone ahead and done a transition post leading into Elora's and also another transition post after hers.

Elora - Please go ahead and do whatever you're going to do in the final post. I have traced out the route the guards will use to drag off Dyrea. If you need anything edited in these posts, let me know and I will happily comply.

Cami

maikafanawen

10-08-2003, 12:39 PM

Dryea is going to need a few things to get out of Minas Tirith all right and back to Umbar so I put Mari to some good use. I hope this is all right:

Mari shook nervously as she watched from the shadows of the alcove. A pack of clothes and other few necessities for herself was slung over her shoulder. The maid was unrecognizable in her loose-fitting black clothes with a sword strapped to her belt. Mari instead looked the part of a regular citizen tonight!

No more than ten minutes after Mari had overheard Ränne tell Ruiel of Dryea's arrest, the soldiers were swarming all over the Morthaniawen Estate like maggots attacking a host. Inconceivable fury overwhelmed her and she discarded her cloak of hesitance to do what was needed of her. The maid was two flights of stairs and three hallways away from Dryea's bedchambers and it was hence she ran. Ducking under tapestries and pulling down priceless vases to stop the soldiers who pursued, Mari made it twenty paces before they did and locked the door behind her.

Immediately they began to hack at the mahogany with swords. It took a few minutes for Mari to rip down the cover and loose the chain from behind the tapestry that let fall the iron-gate. It gave a tremendous crash and chips of mortar fell from the ceiling.

"HA!" the maid cried triumphantly. Curses were barely audible from behind the barricade as the soldiers stood dumbfounded, unsure of what to do.

Mari wasted no time. She ran to the closet and tore aside the assortment of gorgeous dresses to the safe in the back. Pulling her own dagger from her frock she picked at the lock until it clicked open. Inside she found the documents Dryea would need to return safely to Umbar. She kissed the envelope thankfully and stuffed it into the leather bag hanging from the peg just inside the compartment.

Next to go inside the bag was a change of clothes for Dryea. She would not get very far in that dress she had left the house in, so Mari included a pair of snug-fitting pants, a black swordsman's shirt, and leather jerkin. "Shoes!" she reminded herself and also added a pair of sturdy black leather boots. She left the closet then, bumping her head on the lowly hung frame. Shaking off the slight dizziness she rummaged through the desk and found a pair of slender long-knives.

Finally she stuffed a handful of jewels into one of the inner pockets in case other things must be purchased. The last thing she grabbed was Dryea's own sword, a gift from her and her mother's employer.

These things tied securely to her belt, or in the case of the bag draped over her shoulder, Mari opened the passageway inside the fireplace and let herself down carefully to the dark hallway below. She walked ten paces before coming across a lever. She tugged on it twice and a door opened into the kitchens. Mari looked around to make sure no one was there and then ran across the scullery to the door at the far side, her boots making no noise as she ran.

A gust of cold wind met Mari as she ran across the back lawn to the alley exit. There were no soldiers waiting for her.

"Mari!" a young masculine voice called. The maid turned to see her brother Drian give her a wink and wave a bloody dagger. "S'all taken care of Sis! Good luck!" Mari nodded and was off to the Citadel, hoping to catch up with Ruiel in time.

Elora: I was just wondering, when Ruiel "rescues" Dryea, she's not going to be mad at her is she? I mean, Alethea betrayed them and Dryea was actually doing really well and all. smilies/biggrin.gif I think they should bond! smilies/wink.gif Oh yeah, I was also thinking that maybe Ruiel can see Mari sort of looking for her and snag her or something. Mari's being a v good little maid here helping to get them out safely. It'd be nice if Ruiel could help out a teensy bit, what do you think? smilies/wink.gif One last thing, are Dryea & Ruiel going to try and do anything before they leave? What about Alethea?

Mm, how exciting

-Maikafanawen

Elora

10-08-2003, 03:14 PM

Thanks. smilies/smile.gif

Maika, Ruiel is angry at impending failure. She's an ambitious woman and doesn't take setbacks, particularly disasterous setbacks well.

Right now, she does not yet know enough to conclude if her kin have disappointed her. Upon reaching Dryea, she could remedy that lack of information, so she will not be angry with Dryea.

Happy to bump into Mari on the way.

I've yet to figure out if it's plausible that Ruiel and Mari get to Dryea, much less win her free. After they are two women and Eckthelion has a Tower full of guards. Should it prove implausible, don't be surprised if Ruiel flees without Dryea. Therein could be Dryeas bargaining chip. A merciful sentance in return for finding her mother. Rest assured, Ruiel's hatred of Gonder and unswerving loyalty shall not diminish over this. If anything, it will be fuel for her fire.

As for Alethea, reprisal against her seems to be another chapter in this story. I wonder if it does not fall outside of our scope on this RP.

Time for me to go do some planning and research for what I expect to be Ruiel's last post for this RP. smilies/smile.gif

maikafanawen

10-08-2003, 04:22 PM

*Throws up hands in defeat* Oh have it your way Elora but please leave Mari behind if Ruiel and her cowardice flees without Dryea for I’m sure between the two of them they could come up with something. I will not leave my character at the hands of filthy Gondorian officials! smilies/evil.gif

Very well, should I wait for Elora to post Ruiel's finale before I pull mine together? I only see one thing left for Dryea to do. And that's escape! smilies/wink.gif

-Maikafanawen

Child of the 7th Age

10-08-2003, 05:45 PM

I've yet to figure out if it's plausible that Ruiel and Mari get to Dryea, much less win her free.

Elora, Maika,

If the scenario I've set up doesn't work for a realistic rescue, please tell me how you want it changed and I will comply by editing my post. I will be very glad to do this.

I do agree that a rescue of Dryea is in order, and I am extremely reluctant to get into additional subplots and allotments of time: having Dryea go after Alethea, or setting up a situation where Rueil leaves her daughter behind and Dryea needs to devise another plan to escape on her own.

The Alethea/Dryea conflict is potentially complicated and could be resolved in a later game. At one point Arien and I even talked informally about a possible proposal involving a wild chase between the two sisters across the seas....

Please let me know if you need additional help to bring this game to a conclusion.

Cami

[ October 08, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Child of the 7th Age

10-08-2003, 06:11 PM

Pio,

Please check your e-mail.

Cami

Nurumaiel

10-08-2003, 06:20 PM

My final smilies/frown.gif post for for Adrama and Addruran is finished, and if either Child or Pio could put it in my SAVE space that would be wonderful. The SAVE is on the 7th page, Oct. 6th, 5:46.

Adrama floated across the floor in a dream, thinking of all that had happened recently. The uncovering of the spy, Addruran, her argument with her mother, her talk with Alethea.... Smiling fondly, she glanced over across the dance floor where her mother and father were also dancing, happy and relaxed. Adrama had been so pleased when her mother had given consent to the engagement.

Adrama's eyes travelled to Denethor and Finduilas. Finduilas was quite relaxed in Denethor's arms, and she was dancing gracefully, looking very lovely that night. Her eyes were locked with Denethor's as they moved about the floor. "Addruran, would you mind if we went and said hello to Denethor and Finduilas?" Adrama asked. When Addruran gave her a questioning look, she blushed and her head dropped. "I've been rather awful to them recently," she explained, her voice filled with shame. "I'd like to make up for it."

Taking her hand and giving it an encouraging squeeze, Addruran led her across the dance floor, where he paused Denethor and Finduilas. The latter two looked at the couple inquiringly, and some concern flickered in Finduilas' eyes as she recognized Adrama as Pelien's daughter. Adrama saw it and took Finduilas' hand, blushing furiously. "I hope both of you will forgive my family," she said slowly. "I realize that you must have been rather bothered that my mother brought up those rumors, but I assure you her intentions were not bad. Perhaps, though, it was rather rude. But our intentions were not..." Realizing that she was repeating herself, Adrama bit her lip. "I have also been very foolish," she said. Her eyes strayed to Denethor's face, wondering what he would think of her if she said, but then she remembered Addruran's presence by her side, and that she didn't care what Denethor thought anymore. And she confessed how she had been hoping all the rumors about Finduilas were true so she, Adrama, might marry Denethor. In speaking of the latter, Adrama blushed a little, for it was hard to admit to Denethor's face that she had been in love with him, but she received no scornful looks.

"I'm sorry for that," Adrama said. "But you can thank Addruran I didn't join with the traitors who have been hiding here, for if he hadn't come and encouraged me I very well might have, whether from despair or hatred of you, I know not." She paused, then, looking first at Finduilas and then at Denethor, said, "I beg your forgiveness."

"And you have it," Finduilas said. "Tessa once met with your mother for tea, and when she returned she told me about you, saying she'd taken quite a liking to you. I myself have wondered greatly about you. You seemed very mysterious."

"Perhaps I hid my feelings because I knew deep inside I was ashamed of them," Adrama replied. "Thank you."

Denethor, seeing Adrama was uncomfortable, skillfully changed the subject. "So you are Addruran," he said. "I have heard about you. My father speaks highly of you, and tells me you played a large part in capturing Athadan, the spy. Thank you for your service."

"Thank you, sir," said Addruran, trying to hide his embarrassment. "We don't wish to interrupt your dancing anymore. Farewell." With a nod to Denethor and a little bow to Finduilas, Addruran took Adrama's hand and they began to dance again.

Dancing forward into my life, Adrama thought as she went over the familiar steps of the dance, falling into a dreamworld. She thought of the children she would raise, and how hard their life would be, yet so easy. She thought forward to the day when their first child would be born, and what joy would come with that day. And then their second, and their third, and so on. And when they were old, and they would have grandchildren to love, and then someday when they had great grand children, until at last they drifted away from this world. It would be a beautiful life, and the beginning of that wonderful and glorious life was now, when at last all had been resolved and all her fears and doubts had been left far behind as they danced on.

I like the idea about the game concerning Alethea and Dryea. Let me know if you decide to go through with it. I wonder if Adrama and Addruran could find any place in a story of the likes? *ponders*

piosenniel

10-08-2003, 07:15 PM

This game needs to wrap up now - it is way over deadline.

Elora - go ahead and have your character take off. A nice long, single post would be fine here. Leave Dryea's maid(?)[Mari, correct?] as she requested.

Maika - I will be setting up a scene late tonight, after I return from a meeting, - there is a pro-Umbar guard who serves in the prison where your character is kept. He will effect your escape with the help of Mari.

I'll set all that up so that you are well on your way to a waiting ship? or however you can flee Gondor. You can then write one post to get you on your way . . .

Then I am supposing there will be a wrap up post by Cami.

Note: There are SAVES set up for each of these posts - so just leave your final posts here on the discussion thread.

This game will be closed on October 10th. so all final posts must be in by then, midnight, Pacific Time, U.S.

[ October 08, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Everdawn

10-09-2003, 01:32 AM

Id like to say thanks to everyone for a great game! Espec. the women behind the women; The Dol Amroth Ladies it was great playing along with you guys. I loved Averyll, Elen, Tessa and Finduilas. Thanks for your support!

Everyone else: Wow! This really turned into one of the great games that you read here. I loved RPing with all you you.

Orofaniel

10-09-2003, 05:53 AM

Hello.

I feel kind of guilty here, because I haven't participated in the RPG for a long time. smilies/frown.gif Since the end is near I just wanted to say that I can post a final post for Betuli if you want me to. Please let me know.. Thanks! smilies/smile.gif

If you don't want me to write a final post for her, I understand.

Even though I haven't written myself I have read the whole RPG, and it is truly wonderful. smilies/smile.gif There are so many excellent writers....

Child of the 7th Age

10-09-2003, 07:15 AM

Oro,

If you'd like to do a post, I'll be glad to paste it up in any space you'd like. However, it does need to be in by the deadline that Pio mentioned.

I can cut and paste into any box on the thread so just let me know where you want it (date and time; before or after the existing post).

Hope that helps.

Cami

Orofaniel

10-09-2003, 07:28 AM

Thanks! smilies/smile.gif I'll start writing right away smilies/wink.gif

Child of the 7th Age

10-09-2003, 07:56 AM

Nuru,

I'll paste up that post as soon as I get home from work early this afternoon.

Cami

Ealasaide

10-09-2003, 08:41 AM

Id like to say thanks to everyone for a great game! Espec. the women behind the women; The Dol Amroth Ladies it was great playing along with you guys. I loved Averyll, Elen, Tessa and Finduilas. Thanks for your support!

Thanks, Everdawn! Yes, I've enjoyed our little group quite a lot, too. Everyone has done a fabulous job! smilies/biggrin.gif

It has been a true pleasure writing with all of you!

Orofaniel

10-09-2003, 09:41 AM

Cami-
Okay, here is my post for Betuli. I would like you to place it: October 07, 2003 02:20 PM, I don't know if you'd like to place it between the two posts that are already placed there, or if you want to place it in the end or in the beginning. It's up to you, where you find it most suitable. smilies/wink.gif

I really hope the post suites the other post that you've already posted. If not, just let me know where there should be adjustments etc.
But I will not have computer access for the next two days, I'm afraid. smilies/frown.gif I have hand it in for repair. So if there should be editing and you don't see this until tomorrow, you can just do it yourself. smilies/biggrin.gif

*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-

Betuli was going towards the ballroom. She though she heard the sound of music while she walked. She imagined how it would be, the lovely outfits, the handsome lads and of course the music. Betuli had always wanted to attend such a nice event, but she had never really been invited, she was after all just a maid. But even though she only was a maid, it had never stopped her from peeking, and sometimes even stand in the entry. But then again, there had not been many balls and similar events yet. She hoped that her Lady's marriage would bring more of these things in the future. Maybe she one day would be invited, but that was still just a silly dream.

A horrible thought suddenly strucked the maid as she walked. What us Finduilas didn't want to keep her old maids when she married Denenthor? What if she wouldn't be able to serve her after Finduilas' marriage? Betuli gave a short sigh. Then she gave another sigh, and noticed that she had stopped walking. Time will show , Betuli though and her feet started to walk again, and she passed one of the kitchens.

Suddenly she heard footsteps. They were going fast and stern over the floor. The steps were walking towards the ballroom, as herself. Betuli couldn't help herself; she was very curious, but a bit anxious at the same time. What could this be? She hurried around the corner, and to her big surprise she saw guards! Guards? Betuli though as she walked slowly towards one of them. They were all in a rush and didn't seem to notice her before she was asking one of them a question.

"What..?" The guard answered, he didn't seem to understand Betuli's question. Or perhaps he hadn't heard her.

"Why are there so many guards here?" She asked again, in a slow and suspicious voice.

"We are going to arrest...." He didn't complete his own sentence. He gave a short nod another guard, probably his head. He to a step away from Betuli and continued: "I'm sorry, but I cannot give you further information, we must move quickly. So if you'll excuse me...." After he had finished he walked over to the other guards, and soon all of them were gone. Betuli heard them going up the stairs, hurried but stern steps.

Betuli was left alone, with an empty feeling. Well, perhaps not empty. She was still very curious about the arrest. Who had done a deed of such an ill matter that there would have to be guards to capture him? The thought of it was not comforting. A person who had committed such things, were to Betuli's disgust.

The curiosity had finally slipped her mind and body when she continued down towards the ball some minutes later.

-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-

It's been a really nice RPG, with excellent writers, as I've already said (Previous post smilies/wink.gif
smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/smile.gif ).

~Oro smilies/wink.gif

piosenniel

10-09-2003, 10:13 AM

Orofaniel -

Nice post. I put it on board for you! smilies/biggrin.gif

~~ Pio

Orofaniel

10-09-2003, 10:17 AM

Thanks! smilies/wink.gif

Nurumaiel

10-09-2003, 11:02 AM

I would just like to drop in for a moment and say farewell and thank you to everyone. What a great game this was! Very thrilling, interesting, and a great challenge to my writing skills. It's going to be great to simply settle back and read it, though I will miss writing for it. I hope to have the pleasure of RPing with you all again!

And thank you so very much, Child, for if you hadn't mentioned having an all-women RPG in the first place, this game never would have never come to be!

smilies/smile.gif

~Nuru

Child of the 7th Age

10-09-2003, 11:16 AM

Nuru,

Your post is up. Pio beat me to it! smilies/biggrin.gif

Thanks to everyone who participated, and especially those who made it through to the end! I look forward to reading the final posts.

Should there ever be a "sequel", I envision it in very different terms as swashbuckling adventure on the high seas with a bit of piracy and kidnapping thrown in to boot. And I'm quite sure Adrama could learn to wield a cutlass if encouraged by her husband, particularly if she unexpectedly found her life at stake!

Cami

[ October 09, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

maikafanawen

10-09-2003, 11:32 AM

I can just TASTE the sequel! Mmm pirates are my specialty!! smilies/evil.gif

Pio: I got your PM. I'm going out the door right now for my appt. concerning these bloody wisdom teeth holes, but I will be back around 3:00. I'll put my final post up then.

S'been fun!

-Maikafanawen

maikafanawen

10-09-2003, 02:23 PM

Okay here's Dryea's final post for the game:

Dryea's kicks and clawing weren't as futile as the guards would have liked them to be. She left a very nice gash on the shorter one's jaw and the stocky one limped from a good kick to the knee.

"You can't do this to me!" Dryea screamed at the oak door after it had been locked. "I was framed! I-I," she paused to catch her breath, "I'm in mourning!"

"You keep an eye on that one," she heard one of them say to the warden. "She’s a tricky one, she is. Don’t let her wheedle you into anything!"

She screamed again good and loud and the stones overhead seemed to shake with the resonating cry. Then the wooden covering was slid over the square barred window in the door and their voices were cut off. Unwilling to give up hope just yet she began to search around the floor of her cell for any sort of hint that could get her out. Her hands still bound, Dryea dug at the mortar between the stones on the wall and stood up on the bench chained to the wall to see out the slit of a window in the back wall.

There was no way out. She jumped down off the bench and stamped her feet in incorrigible fury. Her fists pounded the door and as she yelled and pleaded for mercy, anything to get out and have a go at escape.

When that failed she backed up to the bench and sat down with a force that shook the chains and flakes of mortar fell into her hair.

"Errr—Damn it!" she said slamming the palm of her hands down on the seat. Breathing deeply she pressed her head against the stone. "Oh man, think, think.... Curse you mother! Leaving me to perish for your errs! You should have seen this coming! I knew we'd be betrayed!" Tears of aggravation slid down her cheeks and she stood again, searching fruitlessly for a way out.

A key was slipped into the lock on her cell door and opened it. Dryea crouched behind the door as it opened, ready to pounce on whomever it was that entered. A slender figure wrapped in a fine black cloak entered with a basket on her arm. She instinctively backed up towards the vacant side of the door and shut it so that her foot kept it open and she could see who hid behind.

Dryea stood and advanced quickly ready to claw the person's brain out if she had to. Anything to get free.

"Wait!" the person hissed and she pulled back the cowl to reveal herself.

"Mari!" Dryea gasped in shock. The maid's eyes widened as a signal to hush. The warden entered the cell behind her.

"I've brought necessities," she said deliberately. "Gaeran has let me in to give them to you." Dryea's eyes expanded. Mari nodded, an enigmatic twinkle to her eye.

"We haven't much time," Gaeran said taking off his helmet and setting it on the bench. "You'll have to take my clothes to get out of here." Dryea nodded and began to undress hurriedly. The warden turned his back respectfully as Mari helped Dryea don his clothes so that they gave her a manly appearance.

"Were we under different circumstances," Mari said, tying the warden's belt around Dryea's waist, "I might laugh at you." The respectful tone of voice she'd harbored as a maid in the Morthaniawen's house was gone. She spoke as an equal to Dryea: a friend. Dryea rolled her eyes.

"Maybe I should make you wear my dress and stay here in the cells in my place?" she said threateningly. Mari didn't even blink.

"I don’t think so, because then how will you find the weapons and real clothes I've hidden for you just outside?" Mari smiled. "Besides," she said, picking up one of Dryea's silver soled heels. "Gaeran's offered to do that for us." In one fluid movement the maid had hit the warden over the head, drawing blood, and the two women watched emotionlessly as he slid to the floor unconscious.

"How nice of him," Dryea mused. They wrapped him in the black mourning gown and stuffed him into a sleeping position in one of the corners. "Sweet dreams," Dryea whispered.

"We don’t have time for corny jokes," Mari said handing her the helmet. "We've got to go." Dressed as the prison warden and a love interest on her arm, the two women left the prison, dropping the keys beside the sleeping Forlong. Adopting the prideful stride of the prison warden, Dryea successfully 'escorted' Mari from the prison and out of sight.

Once they had reached the place where Mari stashed their things, she discarded the basket and gave Dryea her leather bag. The fugitive looked inside and beamed. "Very nice Mari, well done!" Slipping behind a tree to change into the more suitable clothes, Dryea listened as Mari relayed to her the plan.

"There's a ship docked at Harlond waiting to take us to Umbar. Drian sent a message ahead to Tr Dalon, the captain, and he's waiting for us there. We'll be back in Umbar by the end of the month at latest."

"And what of my mother?" Dryea asked indifferently. Mari shrugged, "I don’t think she knows of Tr Dalon's attendance at the docks. She'll probably miss the boat unless you want to risk your neck looking for her." Dryea scoffed.

"She's a big girl, Ruiel can take care of herself." Dressed now in her native black leather clothes, Dryea emerged tying her sword to her belt. "So where are the horses?" Mari laughed and the two made their way to the stables. Black horses were ideal for night travel and luckily the two women were able to find them and tack them up quickly. Then they were off at a furious gallop towards Harlond and safely out of harm's way.

The women rode their horses right onto the ship where it rocked and strained against the hawsers which held her at the end of stone wharf that jutted out into the choppy water. "Ahoy Dryea!" first mate Dawser acknowledged the first rider.

"Alright Captain Dalon!" Dryea shouted up to where he stood by the helmsman. "We'd do well to be off now!" The man nodded and shouted orders for the men to cut the hawsers and lower the boats to guide them through the harbor.

"Quickly and quietly men!" Dawser relayed Tr Dalon's orders. Dryea and Mari handed the reins over to one of the younger sailors who took the enervated horses to the ship's small stable. Then they mounted the stairs to greet their captain. The wind blew thunderously and the flags whipped and cracked.

"It's good to have you aboard Mistress Dryea," Captain Dalon said bowing respectfully. "And you Mistress Mari. Your company is always a pleasure. Make yourselves comfortable. Your quarters are adjacent from mine just below where I stand here. You should find things appropriate for a woman's stay on a ship. Your request is my command."

Dryea nodded her thanks and gazed out over the ship's stern as it sailed out of harbor. The wind caught her auburn hair and blew it magnificently about her as she watched the Morthaniawen's failure in conquering Gondor grow distant. Mari came and stood beside her then, her eyes hard and dark and wishing the same fate for the traitors to Umbar. Soon they'd have their vengeance and Gondor would be theirs at last!

It's been fun guys! I'd be interested to see what a sequel to this would look like.

Cheers!
-Maikafanawen

Child of the 7th Age

10-09-2003, 02:42 PM

Great post Maika! I've pasted it in the game.

I will try to work on something tonight, even if I need to revise it again later, after Elora's post comes in.

I'd be interested to see what a sequel to this would look like.

That would depend on who did the proposal! But I would hope that it would be wild and free-swinging, with one sister (you know who) unexpectedly going after a ship which just happened to have the other sister on it and some of her sister's friends. How Rueil would play into this is anyone's guess! This incident could possibly be set four years later and be the precipitating event that led to Eckthelion's decision to let Thorongil have a go against the Corsair fleet.

sharon

[ October 09, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Elora

10-09-2003, 04:10 PM

Well, looks like time zones have carried things forward whilst I was elsewhere! smilies/smile.gif

Here's Ruiel's last post:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ruiel swore plainly as she shook her booted foot free of the puddle she had been forced to leap into. The wagon clattered past, laden with vegetables, the driver not so much as glancing at the person he had nearly run down as he flicked the reins over the rumps of his horse team. Her lips twisted in disgust as the filthy water, oily and dirty, was shaken off. She tugged her hood down further and continued on with her head doggedly bowed.

She was late, on account of Dryea being missing from the Tower! Both daughters were traitors. The thought was sour in her stomach, along with the fact that maternal concern had made her a fool in going to fetch Dryea when she should have left her there. It would be the last time Ruiel ever gave any concern to a hide other than her own. The smell of the docks was redolent in the air. She was close now.

The cry of hawkers with all manner of intriguing wares that would be quickly tucked away at the merest sniff of the Steward's Guard or Customs Officers was everywhere. Ruiel ignored them all, her destination clearly in mind. She jostled and shouldered her way through the press, searching for the ship.

She found Captain Trelan in his customary guise as a civilian ship's master in short order. The dock would not be so crowded were he standing there in his true garb. He turned, shouting an order for the loading of cargo and stopped as Ruiel stepped forward. He smiled and nodded lightly to her.

"Something amusing Captain?" Ruiel was not in a humourous fram of mind.
"Only that I'm a good 3 gold wealthier than I was before seeing you."
"Gambling is a vice of these weak Gondorian rabble that will only lead you into disolute ways," Ruiel stated firmly. Trelan paid her no heed, familiar with Ruiel over many years now.

"Likely," he replied before calling for his First Mate. Eric loped down the boarding plank nimbly, noted Ruiel and then threw his arm back up in the direction of the horizon.

"There's people as you're already knowin' aship," he drawled.
"Eric," Captain Dalon mildly said. Eric scowled at the wooden dock planks.
"We're getting read to set to, C'ptan..." Ruiel left the pair to sort out whether Eric was good for the 3 gold he'd wagered on Ruiel emerging and alternative forms of payment.

Ruiel ascended the gangplank and stood in the prow, watching the departing ship. She'd sort out those passengers soon enough. The rattle of the anchor chain being wound chinked and wobbled as men cinched it up. Ruiel turned from her study and made her way through the tangle of ropes and men dashing about to get to their posts. Ruiel was below deck as she heard Eric call, "Slip the moors!"

Within the hour, she sat with her cloak removed in Trelan's quarters. The Corsair sat across from her, war hardened face speculative and his fingers steepled before him.

"Tell me Madame, how are your daughters?" Ruiel twirled the glass of thick Umbarian brandy in her fingers and only smiled.

"They are Morthaniawen, Captian. Therein lies your answer."

Trelan smiled back at the viper across from him and wondered how long it would be before one Morthaniawen asp claimed ascendancy. It would be a good fight, and he fancied Eric might find some more gold to wager. He raised his glass in salute at Umbar's longest serving spy and the woman that had been responsible for Trelan winning a handsom share of wagers and Eric's ongoing penury.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hope that works.

Great work one and all. It's been a challenge to manage a RP with so many characters that was met admirably by each.

It's been a pleasure. smilies/smile.gif