Experimental Planning Thread: The Princess Guard

[Child of the 7th Age]

Shire posters,

Background

Several weeks ago, I mentioned I would like to see a Shire RPG which featured realistic female characters from Middle-earth. The game would not include shield-maidens or quasi-magical Elves, but would focus on other types of women who normally don't appear in our RPGs.

I even expressed the hope that some of our male posters would take up the challenge of developing and using a female persona. It is not unusual for women to play male characters, but the reverse is still uncommon.

Three Shire posters immediately took me up on developing a suitable storyline: Manardariel, Nurumaiel, and Sophia the Thunder Mistress. Manardariel submitted several story seeds. Some were light hearted, some somber; some focused on poor refugees and others on privileged members of the ruling class. They decided to adopt the following seed.

The Princess Guard - 2976 TA - Finduilas of Dol Amroth is to marry Denethor, the future Steward of Dol Amroth. A group of girls/women (ladies-in-waiting, maids etc.) is to come to Minas Tirith with her. There, they are shocked by the cold, masculine Court Ecthelion and Denethor are keeping. The game would describe how they manage to organize parties and bring some more life into the Citadel.

This can hopefully be the foundation of a witty, humorous game which explores the relations between men and women in the court of Minas Tirith. Manardarial, Nurumaiel, and Sophia will submit the proposal and act as co-founders for the RPG.

This discussion thread has been set up to help them develop their ideas. At the end of the planning process, they will fill out the standard games worksheet and submit it to Piosenniel, Shire Mod, for editing and hopefully eventual approval.

Requirements for Participating in this Planning Process

Anyone who is interested in this game, or wants to learn how RPGs are developed, is welcome to follow along with the thread. However, in order to post on this thread and actively contribute to the planning process, you must meet the following criteria:

1. You must have participated in at least one game in the Downs.

2. You must put a small note on this thread, explaining why you'd like to help with the planning. One of the founders will get back to you, either on the thread or by pm and grant or withold permission for your request.

Please note that I will be quite ruthless with folk who simply set down their ideas without first requesting permission from the founders. Such posts will be immediately deleted. So make sure and ask Nuru, Manardariel, or Sophia first, so I don't have to wear out my delete pen!

Historical Background

Here are a few pertinent historical facts which may prove useful to your planning. These come from the appendices of LotR.

Ecthelion II was the son of Steward Turgon, and was a wise and foresightful Man. He put his efforts into strengthening his realm against the approaching danger of Sauron, who had openly revealed himself in the last years of Turgon's Stewardship. He was aided in this work by Gandalf, and by a mysterious stranger named 'Thorongil', who was later known to be none other than Aragorn. It was Throngil who constantly urged Ecthelion to take a stand against the rebels in Umbar. In 2980, just four years after this story takes place, Thorongil finally got permission from the Steward to go ahead and destroyed most of the Corsair ships with little loss of life. After this Aragorn disappeared, never having set foot in Minis Tirith.

Tolkien implies that Ecthelion's son Denethor viewed Thorongil as his rival and was pleased to see him leave. Moreover, Denethor had a much more negative attitude towards Gandalf. It is said that, even before becoming steward, Denethor learned of Gandalf's plans to restore the Heir of Isildur to the throne, and this accounts for his lifelong distrust of both the wizard and Aragorn.

In 2984, Ecthelion died and was succeeded as Steward by Denthor, who ruled Gondor at the time of the War of the Ring. Denethor's later history and eventual suicide is well known from the LotR.

Finduilas of Dol Amrothwas born in 2950 TA, and married Denethor in 2976, the year this game takes place. She was a lady of great beauty and gentle heart who died when she will still young, just twelve years after her marriage. She was the mother of Boromir and Farimir, characters well known to us from LotR. Tolkien states the following:

Denethor loved her, in his fashion, more dearly than any other, unless it was the elder of the sons that she bore him. But it seemed to men that she withered in the guarded city, as a flower of the seaward vales set upon a barren rock. The shadow in the east filled her with horror, and she turned her eyes ever south to the seas that she missed.

With her passing in 2988, Denethor became increasingly depressed and withdrawn.

[ May 20, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[piosenniel]

Post of Child of the 7th Age


Game Founders,

Just a few qustions and ideas to get you started..... Many more will arise in the course of your talks.

First, will the action of the story take place before or after the actual wedding to Denethor?

Also, one of the things you'll need to develop is a clear-cut ending to the game. One of the thing our worksheet requires is to have a clear goal in mind so you know when the game is over.

You're obviously going to have some kind of conflict between the men and the women, with the men not understanding what the women are asking for and why. The men will resist and have to be won over gradually. But what is your ending going to be, the goal to which you're striving?

Is there some kind of a crisis or problem in Gondor where these feminine skills can be employed and lead up to a defined ending, perhaps even partially in the context of a party? Perhaps spying and untangling some diplomatic intrigue, with the help of friends and servants?

It's interesting to me that Finduilas lived near the sea and loved it, and that the decision to attack the Corsair fleet came just four years after her arrival at court. I almost wonder if she had some subtle hand in influencing her father-in-law's attitudes. Is it remotely possible that she had met and spoken with Aragorn in Pelargir perhaps before her marriage? You may or may not want to go in this direction.

When Pio and I discussed the possible intrigue and spying, she noted the following, "The women and their servants would have their own unique networking setup that could prove quite useful in ferreting out important tidbits of information. Also what to a man might seem unimportant information, to a woman used to reading other subtle signs, it might speak volumes."


Let your thoughts range as far afield as you want, but you will need a defined ending of some kind and probably some trace of wider conflict or intrigue.

Good luck and have fun! I'll drop in to see how things are going.

Cami

[ May 21, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[piosenniel]

This is the form you will use to submit your Game proposal to me. Please read it carefully and fill out each section completely.
_____________________________________________

SHIRE GAME WORK SHEET

Please read carefully and follow all information in The Red Book of Westmarch and in Seed Stories about gaming in the Shire before filling out this form. Please be exact in your answers.

Answer in full sentences and complete paragraphs wherever appropriate so that the Reviewers will have as complete an idea as possible of your vision of the game. Reviewers for the Games are Piosenniel (Pio) and Child of the 7th Age (Sharon).

Title:

Basic Storyline:

The purpose of the story is to:

This means we will know the story is over when:

Starting Location:

Likely destination:

Timeframes:

This game takes place in the ____Age at around year _______.

The storyline itself or plot covers _____ days, weeks, months.

This game requires a time commitment of _____ from me, the game owner and from the major players.

Characters: – be specific as to type (eg., Lothlorien Elves, not just Elves, if that’s what you need; or any other characters types from specific regions) and please indicate the number of each type you will need.

Please note: Race – number needed – and gender needed

Main character types are:

Secondary character types likely are:

Character types which would not belong:

The game owner will play ____ character(s). Fill out the Character Description Form completely for your character.

The first post for the game:
(This should be several paragraphs long, enough to give gamers a solid sense of what the game is about and who might be involved. It should draw both readers and potential gamers into the game.)

Other information of special interest that you would like to include:

Do you want first posts for the game when the players submit their characters on the discussion thread? - YES/NO

Please note that this will mean NO character descriptions will be accepted without First Posts accompanying them. All character descriptions posted without the required First Post will be sent back to their writers.
_____________________________________________


Proposer/Owner (Please use your Barrow Downs ID):

RPGs at the Barrow Downs I have participated in are the following (if you have not, explain where you have developed your RPG skills):

Contact via PM – You must have your ability to receive Private Messages enabled in order to run a Game. We need to be able to contact you.

[piosenniel]

This is the form you will use to create your characters for submission:

For your character please include:

NAME:

AGE:

RACE:

GENDER:

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

APPEARANCE:

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

HISTORY:

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Maikafanawen has Pm'ed me about this thread, so she's all set to post here as soon as she likes. smilies/wink.gif

Sophia

[Nurumaiel]

Pio, those are some interesting questions. I would answer them myself except that the answers to them are quite unknown to me. Manardariel should be able to answer them properly when she comes along.

I'm mainly posting to let everyone know that I'm here. smilies/smile.gif

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Yes, Cami smilies/wink.gif, those are really neat questions. This is the one that caught my eye first. Is there some kind of a crisis or problem in Gondor where these feminine skills can be employed and lead up to a defined ending, perhaps even partially in the context of a party? Perhaps spying and untangling some diplomatic intrigue, with the help of friends and servants?

Has anyone read or seen the musical "The Scarlet Pimpernel"? It's hardly Tolkien, but the whole plot hinges around a scene at a masqued ball where Marguerite, the heroine does some hefty spy work. It's especially dramatic in the play version. This question brought that scene to mind. I think it would be really fun to set up this kind of conflict in an RPG...

Sophia

[ May 21, 2003: Message edited by: Sophia the Thunder Mistress ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Whoops, everyone. I goofed.

Those particular questions aren't from Pio. They're from me (Child, Cami). I stuck my post into Pio's vacant box, and forgot to put my name at the top. Pio and I did, however, discuss the general topic, and she was also thinking along these same lines.

I've run back and pasted my name over the post so no one else will be confused.

BTW, there's no right or wrong answer here. It's just how you decide to develop your story idea. You can stick your neck out beyond what Tolkien actually says as long as it doesn't blatantly contradict what we know to be true about Middle-earth.

It just strikes me that there is a lot of intrigue going on at the court. Denethor doesn't like Aragorn or Gandalf, and his dad does. For years, Ecthelion resisted Aragorn's advice to attack the Corsair fleet. Then four years after Finduilas comes to court, he reverses his position.

Maybe, just maybe, she had something to do with this reversal of policy. Of course, Tolkien himself never said this. But neither did he tell us why Ecthelion changed his mind. If Finduilas was doing this kind of thing, she had to be very skilled and very discreet. Her husband loved her in his own fashion and he never suspected her of anything like this, which would actually go against his own views.

And I agree with Sophia. Whatever you decide on as an ending, you could use intrigue and spying on the part of the women similar to that portrayed in The Scarlet Pimpernel. In traditional societies, where women are often excluded from official positions of authority, they often used these tactics to make what inroads they could.

Cami

[ May 21, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Point of clarification:

Sophia mentioned that my initial introduction was not clear as to whether or not posters could put their requests to the founders on this thread and ask to join in the planning.

The answer to that is yes. As long as you've played in a game, you may do a post on this thread asking the game founders if you can join in the discussion.

I promise not to delete such requests. (I'm not that mean!) When I mentioned deleting posts, I meant people who joined in the discussion without first petitioning the founders.

Thanks, Sophia, for mentioning about Makaifanawen. It helps to put the names of approved posters down in the thread, so I don't erase someone you want to be here!

Cami

[Nurumaiel]

It seems what Manardariel was planning was to have the women want to have a party to liven the place up (and celebrate the wedding?), and the men not wanting to do it. Of course we'll have to wait for her to clarify.

[Manardariel]

Wow, lots of stuff happening here! Ok, too get some suff clear. Thanks for the questions Cami, it´s good to get some inspiration. I liked your idea about the "Femine netrwork" you expressed... that sounded interesting!

Is there some kind of a crisis or pro1blem in Gondor where these feminine skills can be employed and lead up to a defined ending, perhaps even partially in the context of a party? Perhaps spying and untangling some diplomatic intrigue, with the help of friends and servants?

Hmm.. it´s wartime, so the city is probably unresting and stuff. Maybe you could add something like that.. wartime usually comes in hand with a famine or something... I´ll think of somerthing.

MORE LATER!

[Lyra Greenleaf]

I would really like to join in with planning this! Recently I was thinking I'd love to do an RPG which doesn't involve some sort of fighting. Not that I don't love those too, but this sounds really different and original. I've played a variety of female characters, erm, I'm not quite sure what else to say to convince you!

[Manardariel]

Welcoem aboard, Lyra. Thanks for posting that "genuine example" how a proposal should look. smilies/tongue.gif Oh, and if you haven´t played in an RPG with any of the game-founders yet (Nurumariel, Sophia Thunder-Mistress or me), it may be helpfull to include a reference what game you played in. Thanks! smilies/smile.gif

Now, to buisiness.

Clear- cut confict.
Has anyone read The Last great Dance on Earth, about Josephine and Napoleon? Not the most Tolkien- true reference, but it´s quite funny how the author descibes Napoleon´s dislie of parties. We could give Denethor that character trait, maybe even a strong dislike of company. (He was kinda reputant to other peopler in LotR), so maybe that would be a possible confict, especially if his wife is really pro- entertaining.

I´m not sure if the whole Pelagir-thingy is a good idea. I guess we´re trying to make this a bit more houmerous than other RPGs, so maybe that would get to political.. any opinions?

[Carlas]

I'd also like to help with planning this RPG! So far, I have only played male characters, and I think it's about time I tryed playing my proper sex! smilies/biggrin.gif Also, this game looks really interesting and lots of fun!!!

Oh, and I've played in The Road to Erebor, Quest for the Ainereg, and am in the middle of Truth in a Dark Place!

[ May 21, 2003: Message edited by: Carlas ]

[Durelin]

I immediately jumped to this thread when I saw it. I had seen Cami the mighty mod's suggestion in the newcomers thread (right?) and was really excited about the fact that you might actual do something with that idea. Now you have a plot and it is exquisite. It may sound like I am critiquing a food, but I'm a bit at a loss for words. I would just like to help out with this in any way I can, or if you have too many people for that, I hope I can be moral support at least! smilies/biggrin.gif

I, like Carlas, haven't gotten the chance to play someone of my own sex. I will Friday, but she's evil...so...doesn't really count. I have never been too fond of shield maidens, and I like having a variety...so it'd be great to play a female. Plus, she isn't going to be a super warrior ranger woodsman woman. Plus, it works with courtly manners and intrigue and all that...that will be awesome. I will do anything to help, and I mean anything. Summer vacation is almost here for me (YAY!) so I'll be wanting something to do! smilies/smile.gif I'll take any old job, any lowly little job or I'll just help everyone think...

Oh, yeah, I've played in Wolf Run RPG, Search for the Lost Messenger RPG, The Quest for the Ainereg RPG, and I am currently in Truth in a Dark Place RPG, and I will be starting my own RPG (plot of my own creation! heh, heh!): Dark Seduction. Right...thankyou for your time.

~DUR!!~

[Manardariel]

Durelin and Carlas,

Welcome! Ok, anyone, do yu have some ideas? Nuru? Sophia? I´m in school and running out of thoughts!! smilies/smile.gif

Goal, part2
Nuru and me were thinking about the women wanting to organize this really big party, like with a ball and everything... so with Cami´s suggestion.. listen to this. There´s a suspecion going on that two people calling themselves "Friends from Dol Amroth" are actually spies of Mordor. Finduilas and her ladies are especially suspicious because they don´t know the guys, even though they say they´re "Frm Dol Amroth". So they use a party to figure some stuff out.. any good?

[Child of the 7th Age]

Manardariel,

Regarding the "Friends of Dol Amroth". That's a really good idea!

Maybe these agents claim to be an association promoting trade between Dol Amroth and all the cities along the Bay of Belefas. (That covers a lot of territory stretching west and south, all the way down to Harad and Umbar where the Corairs are.)

Of course, all this is a ruse. Their real purpose would be spying and getting information on military plans and forces for their home countries which are secretly becoming allies of Sauron. Four years from now Throngil destroys the Corsair fleet. Maybe that couldn't have happened unless Gondor first managed to ferret out these baddies from the court and destroy their pipeline of information.

Hey, do you want the spies to be the official male representatives of the association, or their wives who are the "real" gatherers of secrets behind the scenes?? That way, you could work in more women's role. Plus, it would make sense that Finduilas would become suspicious as she involves the different women who've come to court on planning these parties. These women friends of Dol Amroth could even claim to be sympathetic to Finduilas' goal of lightening things up and going against the fuddy-duddy men. But we know their real goal!

To keep the story light, you probably wouldn't want to get too heavy into the ties with Mordor or Sauron, but focus on the human intrigue instead. That way, the story could stay humorous and witty the whole way through, which is the point Nuru brought up earlier.

Cami

[Lyra Greenleaf]

I'm not too sure about how it would fit in with the story, but I was thinking maybe there could be jealousy about Finduilas from someone who would have liked to be married to the Steward of Gondor? Perhaps she could try to set Finduilas up to seem a member of the "Friends"?

EDIT: Oh, sorry. I've been in Search for the Lost Messenger, Swan Wood, Quest for the Ainereg, Reclaiming the City, Threat of the Trees and Holiday in the Sun

PS Durelin, clear your PMs! I got into the White Tower!

[ May 22, 2003: Message edited by: Lyra Greenleaf ]

[Manardariel]

NOW were getting somewhere.. smilies/biggrin.gif Oooh, yes, let´s let the evil´s have WIVES!!! smilies/evil.gif Maybe they could be really ambixious, and they were the ones who bullied there husbands into spying. To get the whole thing not to Mordor-ish, maybe the guys don´t know who they´re working for... we can make them REALLY thick. Like totally dumb. Crabbe-and-Goyle-ish. (Sorry for the HP-reference!) Or, another idea: they aren´t working for Sauron, but for the corsairs of Umbra. That would mean they´re not for the total baddies... smilies/smile.gif
Keep being creative, everyone!

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

smilies/biggrin.gif Wow, I really like that idea, with the Friends of Dol Amroth thing too.

I think Lyra's idea: I'm not too sure about how it would fit in with the story, but I was thinking maybe there could be jealousy about Finduilas from someone who would have liked to be married to the Steward of Gondor? Perhaps she could try to set Finduilas up to seem a member of the "Friends"? is rather interesting, although it may make the story a bit complicated. But I'm sure Meela would tell us that Denethor was a very handsome and desirable young man smilies/wink.gif who was additionally going to rule the country. I'm sure plenty of the local Minas Tirith girls were a little jealous of Finduilas. It might be interesting to make there be some tension in the court between the girls from Dol Amroth and say, the daughters of Ecthelion's court.

*rubs hands together* I'm quickly becoming very excited about this.

Sophia

Arien and Annunfuiniel are okay to post, please put a note up here, like Carlas or Lyra did so everyone knows your experience.

[Annunfuiniel]

I'm here, I'm here! smilies/biggrin.gif
Ok, so for my 'experience': I've played/am playing in Swan Wood, In the Footsteps of the Grey Company ( smilies/evil.gif) and Hunt for the Dragon RPGs and visited the Green Dragon briefly. So far all my RPG characters have been male so I think it's about time to consider playing female.

Great ideas, all! My first suggestion is that there might be one older woman in the group of Finduilas' followers. Maybe this would be her old nurse, the 'mark-my-words-that's-mere-trouble-my-child' kind of mother figure, very (read: over-) protective and there's none such thing as 'not her business'. She has certain authority in the women's group (especially in case this story takes place before the wedding) but more or less silent rebelling is one of the girls' everyday sport. If someone tries to hurt "her girl(s)" the attacker better be ready to face a fierce mother bear.

Well, that's my two pennies/cents/whatever for now. Let's see if I can think of something better later. Keep up the good work!

smilies/smile.gifAnnun

[Child of the 7th Age]

I like a lot of these ideas.

Maybe the jealously thing could just be an undercurrent at the beginning so it would be harder for Finduilas to accomplish her goals and make friends. Poor Finduilias arrives in court and half the women are throwing stones at her, even though she didn't do anything! (It's even possible the Friends of Dol Amroth could exploit this and play both sides.)

Perhaps, she'd have some kind of breakthrough in the making friends department fairly early in the game (after 3 weeks or so, real time?). Then she and the other ladies who are leaders in the court could put their heads together and begin to get suspicious about these "Friends".

That means you'd have three main groups in the story:

A. Finduilas and her servants and ladies-in-waiting she brought with her. This would include the older Nurse whom Annun just described.

B. The local court ladies who start out very jealous of group A and only gradually make friends. (Maybe one of them almost got to marry Denethor and is pretty huffed about that at first).

C. The real baddies who pit group A and B against one another, and ho go around spying, but who get found out by the end.

Someone suggested group C could be tied to the Corsairs rather than directly to Sauron, and that's a good idea too.

Cami

[ May 22, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Arien]

Im here too!

My experience: The road to Erebor, The Quest for the Ainereg, Escape from Nurn, Truth in a Dark Place, Sailing Away (and The Fall of Greenwood the Great coming to a RP fourm near you soon).

There are some really good ideas here! I like the whole idea of spying. But I have to go now so I will get back with some ideas in the morning.

[*Varda*]

Is it ok if I help plan this as well? It looks really interesting.

Previous experience - Audience with the King, Castle Maladil, In War, and Sailing Away (even if that hasn't started yet, strictly speaking...)

Varda

[Durelin]

Okay, I was thinking maybe, since you want it to be light and humorous, it could be that these women perhaps set up the wedding. We have suspicions that Finduilas might have had something to do with the attack on the Corsairs and persuading Ecthelion, perhaps Denethor had that suspicion also. So, maybe he had some reserves about marrying her, even if it was mostly set up (I don't know, was it?) And then these women (perhaps Finduilas's maids or something of that sort in disguise, or not in disguise, whatever) scheme and plot, maybe subtly mentioning things about her and working around with rumors with the servants and other nobles and such. Plus, we could include the party idea by having them persuade the men to have a party and then Finduilas comes and then...romantic...goal reached...the end?

Howzat? Just a suggestion...

P.S.- Sorry LyraI I'll hop to it! Cool! You joined! YAY! See you there!!

[maikafanawen]

Heyho all! I'm here too!

Experience: The Road to Erebor; Swan Wood; Quest for the Ainereg; Truth in a Dark Place; The Summons + numerous RPGs on other sites--(not all LOTR).

I have an idea that is only half way formed—which is what is wanted on this thread anyroad so here agoes:

What if we threw a bit of Wormtongue into the plot. There could be a head female spy for the corsairs—I like this idea better than the Sauron idea, kudos to whoever thought of it—and she is known as a lady of Minas Tirith, when in truth she has just sort of meddled her way into the circle. This character would have to be a very strong character who is extremely persuasive and probably very beautiful. She could be the sort of the ‘leader’ of Group C—referring to Cami’s outline. Maybe she had the idea to marry Denethor therefore taking a lot of power into her own hands and when Finduilas comes and her goals are all but shattered. Instead of putting so much violence into the plot, since the corsair spy doesn’t want her true identity revealed, she begins to befriend Finduilas’ group or something trying to regain what she lost and something like that…like I said, I only had a taste of it formed…any additional ideas?

I'm tickled by this whole RPG idea -- this will be so much fun!

-Maikafanawen

Heyho to Durelin--your new RPG looks extremely interesting...once I have a moment I'll read through it all! I hope you're successful with it, you're an astronomical writer!

[Nurumaiel]

All right, I'm finally here. I like all the ideas and I thank Cami for putting it all down in one post! Whew!

I particulary like the idea of the jealous woman who once loved Denethor. In fact, just the kind of character I have never played but would dearly love to do so. Especially after reading all those Agatha Christie books. smilies/rolleyes.gif There are a lot of women like that in those books.

[Durelin]

Thanks Maika! You are a beautiful writer. How do you write so much?! Your posts are always so long!! smilies/wink.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

But, when you have the jealous women, what is the goal a group of women would want to accomplish? Did someone already say that...I am tired, I might have missed it...

[Manardariel]

Thanks Cami! smilies/smile.gif I´m reusing her catigorization to summerize what we have untill now.

Different Groups that would interact:

A) Finduilas and her gang. Would include Maids, the old Mother-ish character someone referred too, Ladies etc.

B) Minas Tirith Gang. Would include girls and ladies who have worked and lived at the court all their lives and are offended Denethor is marrying a "foreighnor" instead of one of the city girls. However, they quickly gang up with group a aginst group C.

c) The baddies. A group of three ambixious women who are intrested in three things: money, contacts and consequently power. Would include the "Friends from Dol Amroth" and their wives, who are really working for the corsairs. One of them has a daughter who could be the evil-ish chick Maikafanawen suggested.

Group C starts to interact with group A as soon as threy arrive to befriend them (again, Maika´s idea- thanks!). Group B is more than unhappy about this and start being nice to group A to get group C off them. How does that sound?

Note: I left out the aspect of jealously, mainly to avoid things to get nasty and bloody (remember Moulin Rouge?) Maybe we could instead just have the key motives as Predjudice/Pride for group B and just plain ambixiousness for group C.

[ May 23, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[Manardariel]

Complete List of People interested in planning and playing

Maikafanawen
Lyra Greenleaf
Carlas
Durelin
Manardariel
Nuru
Sophia
Varda
Arien
Annufuiniel

Important notice: we will exept two more planners/players!! Please PM me if you are ineterested. Do not post here! Thank you smilies/smile.gif

[ May 23, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[*Varda*]

Just a couple of ideas/questions.

I like what everyone's got so far, only I don't think Groups A and B would gang up against C so quickly - If Finduilas and co. are new to the court, and Group C are being friendly to them, how would the Minas Tirith gang turn Group A against the Friends of Dol Amroth? However, while Group B are trying to convince Group A to gang up on Group C, this would probably lead to some hostility/tension between Finduilas & co, and the Minas Tirith gang. (All these groups are confusing me... smilies/rolleyes.gif )

Anyway, that's all my brain can contribute at midnight, but I'll sleep on it and post more later.

[Carlas]

I was thinking we could have a character in group C who was sort of dragged along into becoming a 'baddie'. She could start to become friends with Finduilas and feels bad for really plotting against her but does not want to be disloyal to the person who made her come along. (perhaps a sister or husband)

Though, that might make things a little more complicated! smilies/biggrin.gif

[ May 23, 2003: Message edited by: Carlas ]

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Note: I left out the aspect of jealously, mainly to avoid things to get nasty and bloody (remember Moulin Rouge?) Maybe we could instead just have the key motives as Predjudice/Pride for group B and just plain ambixiousness for group C.

Eek, yes, bloody Vendetta style jealousy is definately something we'd want to avoid. But I thought that general petty jealousy might work okay. Kind of a "What has she got that we haven't got" attitude on the part of the Minas Tirith girls.

If Finduilas and co. are new to the court, and Group C are being friendly to them, how would the Minas Tirith gang turn Group A against the Friends of Dol Amroth? However, while Group B are trying to convince Group A to gang up on Group C, this would probably lead to some hostility/tension between Finduilas & co, and the Minas Tirith gang. Group A would already be slightly suspicious of the "Friends" as they themselves are from Dol Amroth, and as such should recognize the "Friends" but don't. Otherwise, you're right, it would get very messy. I think it's rather more difficult to turn the Minas Tirith girls against the Friends of Dol Amroth, as they don't have any inherent suspicion of them.

Sophia

[Manardariel]

I like Carlas idea about the "not-really-baddie"... maybe that could be "Maika´s evil Chick"´s sister.

To turn group B against group C, maybe we could say especially the "evil-chick" Maika suggested is really nose-up and everything, bossing everyone around, acting like she´s queen of Gondor- naturally, group B is really p*ssed at that... eh?

Conficts

1) Group A vs. Group B Group B (the Minas Tirith girls) are envious and frustrated because Denethor didn´t marry one of them, but a "foreighner".
Resolved: quickly

2) Group A vs. Group C Suspicion from Group A because they don´t know the so-called "Friends from Dol Amroth"
Resolved: doesn´t, but it turns into 3)

3) Group A and B vs. Group C Group A is supcious and Group B is annoyed- they both resolve their own problem to fight against Group C. The girl Carlas suggested would be act as a double agent and tell everything she knows. (maybe)
Resolved: at the end of the game!

Hey! We have a clear cut ending!! smilies/smile.gif

[Child of the 7th Age]

Manardariel,

It sounds like you're on your way, but you need to spell out more detail.

I do have one suggestion about something to add to the games worksheet. You might want a real short section -- just a few sentences--entitled "Historical Background." This could be somewhere near the top, even before the plotline, stating the basic historical background: growing power of Sauron and his allies; growing conflict between Gondor and Umbar which will ultimately lead to Thorongil's (Aragorn's) destruction of the Corsair ships just four years later.

I think that this would help set your RPG into some kind of context.

Cami

[ May 24, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[*Varda*]

So, we have the double agent revealing all to Groups A + B, so they know everything. What happens then? Would they try and solve it themselves (although that could get messy, and really rather complicated), or would they tell Denethor and let him sort it out? To tell Denethor, it would have to be clearer what the Friends of Dol Amroth were doing – what exactly were they finding out for the Corsairs – was it about the possible attack on the Corsair fleet? And did they actually succeed in finding out little bits of information in the short time they befriended Finduilas and her gang, or did they hear anything else around the court?

I wouldn’t really say the ending was that clear-cut so far – we know Groups A and B know about it, but not how they will resolve it.

I’m not sure how much sense I just made, even to myself, but this is just my thoughts on the matter.

[Carlas]

I think the 'double agent' would not want to tell everyone, she would probably go to Finduilas and tell her. Then Finduilas would have to go to Denethor, and perhaps we can have another sort of conflict there. Perhaps Denethor was friends with one of the men, and refuses to believe that he would have anything to do with the thing!

[maikafanawen]

How will Group A and Group B eventually become friends? Will they just poof—one of Group B approaches one of Group A with their concerns about Group C and the representative from Group A says something like, “Hey, wow, ye know, we’ve [noticed/think] that too!!—” etc. . .or will some sort of event take place forcing them into allies?

I think that rumors should be a part of the RPG. The main person of Group C should perhaps weave together rumors that would turn Group B and Group A even more against each other and even Denethor against Finduilas. Then one of the maids from (most sensibly) Group A finds out or overhears something the “evil chic” is saying and sort of begins to piece things together. . . ?

As far as ideas for the clear cut ending—I want to expand Cami’s suggestion. After Group A and Group B uncover Group C’s motives—perhaps they don’t “reveal” them to the rest of Minas Tirith. Instead, they give them false information about how they’re going to take care, of the corsair fleet and “evil chic” begins to get nervous and sends a messenger to the corsairs telling them what she knows. Then Denethor sends his true motives out to the “field,” destroying their fleets for real. Eh?

I think that once Group A and Group B are sure of the true identities of Group C, Finduilas should gather all her proof together and confront Denethor, telling him all she knows. That way, Groups A & B would have even more backing should she be successful in convincing him--see Carlas' idea.

Those are my ideas for the morning.

-Maikafanawen

[ May 24, 2003: Message edited by: maikafanawen ]

[maikafanawen]

Nope, I lied, I've got one more idea. This concerns the vaguely mentioned party--Group B and Group A know about Group C by this time and have been working together. At the Party, the "evil chic" is working to over-throw Finduilas by telling falsehoods about her past or family etc. The ladies and maids of Group A & G are trying to stop them. That's when the double agent can play and extremely significant role. She has to make Group C's "evil chich" believe she's still on her side--(I aggree with whoever's idea that this should be "evil chic's" sister)--while also getting the information to Group A and B. Oooh! AND Maybe even forgetting the second to last paragraph in my above ideas, Finduilas gives a sort of 'thank-you' speech (the Party would be in Finduilas' honor for this to work properly) thanking all of the attendees for coming. Through very clever words and puzzling statements, she could more or less tell Group C that she knows who they are and what they're doing. "Evil chic" realizes it and flees. That's when Finduilas can go to Denethor and tell him everything. And that's what can convince Denethor to destroy the Corsair's Fleet. smilies/biggrin.gif

-Maikafanawen

[*Varda*]

So, ideas for ending it so far are;

1) A cleverly worded speech by Finduilas, letting Group C know she’s onto them. “Evil Chic” flees, Denethor is told, and destroys the Corsair fleet.
2) Groups A and B feed Group C false information, panicking them, and “evil chic” tells the Corsairs what she knows. Then Denethor destroys their fleets.

I like 1) , but at the same time I do like Maika’s idea that rumours should be an important part of the story, and with 2) even more are being spread. Oh, I’m torn between the two – perhaps they can be put together in some way?

3) Groups A and B still spread rumours to Group C about a possible attack on the Corsair fleet, and “evil chick” still sends a messenger to tell the Corsairs what she knows. The party that evening is the ideal time for Finduilas’ speech, and “evil chick” realises that she has been fooled by Groups A and B and flees – she can’t go back to the Corsairs after giving them wrong information, but she can’t stay in the court. Denethor could then find out – the proof is there, as “evil chick” has gone, showing her disloyalty.

So, the game could end when “evil chick” (she really needs a name smilies/biggrin.gif) has left the court and Denethor is told and takes action.

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

I think the 'double agent' would not want to tell everyone, she would probably go to Finduilas and tell her. Then Finduilas would have to go to Denethor, and perhaps we can have another sort of conflict there. Perhaps Denethor was friends with one of the men, and refuses to believe that he would have anything to do with the thing!

Whatever we do with Denethor, we have to make sure that we don't create too much conflict between him and Finduilas. He's supposed to love her more than anything (except perhaps Boromir). So we can't mess around with the functioning of their relationship too much. Question, however on that subject. Does she love him? How does she feel about the marriage? Is it arranged?

3) Groups A and B still spread rumours to Group C about a possible attack on the Corsair fleet, and “evil chick” still sends a messenger to tell the Corsairs what she knows. The party that evening is the ideal time for Finduilas’ speech, and “evil chick” realises that she has been fooled by Groups A and B and flees – she can’t go back to the Corsairs after giving them wrong information, but she can’t stay in the court. Denethor could then find out – the proof is there, as “evil chick” has gone, showing her disloyalty.

So, the game could end when “evil chick” (she really needs a name ) has left the court and Denethor is told and takes action.


I really like this idea (especially Finduilas' speech! Go Maika!) except Tolkien tells us that at no point does Denethor ever agree to take action against the corsairs. His father Ecthelion does it four years after Finduilas' arrival at court. So unless we want the game to cover a time period of four years, there isn't going to be any destroying of corsairs. And whatever's revealed needs to be revealed to Ecthelion instead of Denethor, because if Denethor knows all this stuff that Finduilas is supposed to know, and still opposes attacking the corsairs it makes him more than negligent to the safety of Gondor. We don't want him to come out looking like the bad guy.

Revised ending 3

The rumours are spread, Evil lady sends her message to the corsairs, who believe that Ecthelion is coming to attack their fleet. Finduilas gives a cleverly worded speech at the party informing Evil lady that she's been found out. Evil lady flees, Finduilas goes to Ecthelion and tells him all. Ecthelion begins planning a massive campaign (that will come four years later?) to eliminate corsairs.

Cami- When does Aragorn/Thorongil first come to Gondor? Would Ecthelion have him around to plan the attack with at this point?

lol... ideas ideas!

Sophia

[Manardariel]

OOOH, I just love your ideas! Go maika! smilies/smile.gif

Revised Ending 3

The rumours are spread, Evil lady sends her message to the corsairs, who believe that Ecthelion is coming to attack their fleet. Finduilas gives a cleverly worded speech at the party informing Evil lady that she's been found out. Evil lady flees, tells the corsairs what happened, who kill her for cheating on them, but retreat to Harad. Fiduilas informs Ecthelion who -after hearing of the corsairs´ retreat- starts planning a campaign to eliminate said corsairs.

Does that make any sense?

Question, however on that subject. Does she love him? How does she feel about the marriage? Is it arranged? I think we shouldn´t put another confict in there, with unhappy marriaged. Though the marriage most probably was arranged, Denethor loved his wife, so let´s just have her love him back, kay?

[Lyra Greenleaf]

|If it was arranged then it most likely wouldn't be love at first sight. It could be, but not necessarily. In that case it would probably explain why she didn't tell him. Maybe they were still feeling each other out? Maybe she really liked her father in law (does Tolkien tell us this?)

[ May 24, 2003: Message edited by: Lyra Greenleaf ]

[ May 24, 2003: Message edited by: Lyra Greenleaf ]

[maikafanawen]

Manardariel: I don't think the Evil woman should die. I think she should just flee to wherever and not go back to the corsairs. Perhaps the rest of Group C could go back to the corsairs and tell what she did and themselves beg for mercy, but it would be sort of interesting and mysterious if the Evil woman lived I think. Because any reader could guess that she would die, but it works better for the plot and for other options if she lives.

I agree that it should end with Ecthelion beginning the plans for an attack on Umbar. That way the clear cut ending would be Groups A and B becoming friends and revealing Group C's identity -- and clearing the name of the double agent who might have to go into hiding but who knows. Then Ecthelion tells Finduilas that he's going to start the plans.

The last little event could be the wedding. Or would Denethor and Finduilas get married before all this hubbub started? I think the wedding should be after everything--that's my 2 cents.

And I also think that Finduilas should fall in love with Denethor--we already have a pretty intricate plot.

-Maikafanawen

[Manardariel]

I´d also go with before the wedding. Wedding preperations are a brilliant cover for the groups´ meetings. Hmm... and I think you have a point with the "mysteriousness" of having the ECL (evil chick/lady) live.. so yeah, that´s cool. smilies/smile.gif

[Child of the 7th Age]

Just throwing in my 2 cents...

Fiduilas informs Ecthelion who -after hearing of the corsairs´ retreat- starts planning a campaign to eliminate said corsairs.

Yes, but make it very clear that the preparations will take some time. Perhaps it will take some initial spy work on the part of Gondor (perhaps by Aragorn himself?) before they mount the attack. That would explain the 4-year delay.

Also, with the survival of the evil lady and the necessity of a spying campaign, I can already smell a sequel to this story!

Sophia - Regarding the time frame for Aragorn, the chronology says he worked for both Thengal of Rohan and Ecthelion II of Gondor from 2957 until the victory over the Corsairs in 2980. So there's plenty of time.

Also, I agree that Finduilas should love her husband. Otherwise things become too complicated. And ending with the wedding is good, nice and clear cut.

I do have one question:

I really like this idea (especially Finduilas' speech! Go Maika!) except Tolkien tells us that at no point does Denethor ever agree to take action against the corsairs. His father Ecthelion does it four years after Finduilas' arrival at court. So unless we want the game to cover a time period of four years, there isn't going to be any destroying of corsairs. And whatever's revealed needs to be revealed to Ecthelion instead of Denethor, because if Denethor knows all this stuff that Finduilas is supposed to know, and still opposes attacking the corsairs it makes him more than negligent to the safety of Gondor. We don't want him to come out looking like the bad guy.

Why doesn't either Finduilas or Ecthelion eventually tell Denethor what happened? Perhaps they do...

Tolkien never specifically says that Denethor disapproved of the attack on the Corsairs in 2980. Only that he disliked Gandalf and Thorongil. Tolkien says perhaps Denethor discovered who Throngil really was, and suspected Gandalf of working to supplant the Stewards and bring in Aragorn as king.

Perhaps Denethor knew of the spying and later preparations, but still remained distrustful of the particular policy because Aragorn himself recommended and supported it?

Any ideas? I think you've got to tie up this end one way or another.

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

Runs off to get other hat as a Shire Mod.........

Manardariel ,

I think we need to go with the planners that have applied up till now and cut off the list, since you are now far advanced in your planning of the plot.

Also, in the proposal itself, in the historical background section, you will need a note telling all posters to read this in LotR----the chronology in Appendix B that runs from 2950 through 2988 (just a half page), plus the two pages in Appendix A under part iv, just before the section on Aragorn and Arwen that deals with the history of Ecthelion and Denethor (just two pages).

[ May 24, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Also, I agree that Finduilas should love her husband. Otherwise things become too complicated.

This is what I thought too, just wanted to see what everyone else thought of it.

If we're cutting off planners now, does that mean that we have the full cast of players now as well? Or will there be spaces for more players (like males playing women smilies/evil.gif) when the game opens?

Sophia

[Child of the 7th Age]

I haven't discussed this with Manardariel, but there are issues involved here that go beyond this specific game to get into questions of Shire guidelines and the Red Book. For that reason, I've written a note to Pio to clarify certain things.

In my mind, there is a clear distinction between planners and players. That means there will be people playing in the game who did not participate in the initial planning. These people will sign up when the discussion thread goes up. And I would definitely like to encourage males to apply for female roles. That could be done by notices in the Inn, and by pms to likely male suspects.

I have a note in to Piosenniel to clarify one thing--whether those planners on this thread who want to play should turn in their profiles and posts with the proposal itself, or whether they should wait till the regular sign-up process on the discussion thread. I'll get back to you on this as soon as I hear from Pio.

Meanwhile, you might want to go ahead with some other things. For example, you need a specific list of proposed characters. Some people have made suggestions in the thread for particular characters in the story. Maybe you'd want to go back through the thread and compile a list of those names with the poster listed beside the character.

Then, let the poster say whether or not she would like to play that particular character in the story. In fact, any one who has helped in the planning could at least give an indication of the particular group they want to be part of ---A, B, or C, or wherever the need is greatest.

Then you'll need to look at that list, and see how many others you'll be needing in each group. These would be the regular players who will sign up with the discussion thread. I definitely want some spaces available for Shirelings who aren't part of this discussion, since the Shire does not have fully "invitational" games except those started by the Mods with a specific purpose in mind.

Do you need any male characters at all? Denethor, Ecthelion, some distant Crosair leader? Or will those be played 'indirectly' by the women? Or will there be no direct scenes with males, only indirect ones that are shown through the minds of the women?

Cami

[ May 24, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Manardariel]

Players and Charcaters Issue

I´m not sure how we´re going to resolve that problem. Because we have 11 people who expressed interest, though up to now not all of them really contributed much. We could maybe say that if there´s any intrests in playing a specific role(like maybe someone is desperate to play ECL) they should express that here. When we open the discussion thread, we´ll only exept characters not taken yet by planners. I think that´s only fair to the planners, because they already contributed something to the RPG before it even started, so I would find it unfair if people that planned didn´t get a chance to play. Of course, planners that don´t want to play don´t have to!

Like I said, I think that´s fairest. If any planners have someone in mind who they´d like to play, they can say so now. In that case, we´ll give the people that thought up the characters the stage first. Then we open the discussion for everyone, and those planners who didn´t have a specific person in mind can post as well as the others.

Next, Characters. Here´s a rough draft for the characters we´ll need:

GROUP A
Finduilas
Old Maid
Various Ladies and Maids(about 3-5)

GROUP B
various Maids from Minas Tirith (about 3-5)

GROUP C
ECL
her sister (the double agent)
her mother
(second wife)

I´m not sure if a Denethor/Ecthelion is really necesarry. I mean, most of the game is "behind the scenes". And I don´t think we´ll need the corsairs either.

[ May 24, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[alaklondewen]

Hello! I was accepted by Manardariel and then confirmed by Cami through PMs, and I would like to thank both of them for the opportunity. I am currently playing in Sailing Away and another ME related RPG on another site.

I think the plot so far will be interesting. However, I noticed not much as been said about specific events taking place at the party besides Finduilas' speech. I like the idea of the women spying during the party, so what if they are suspicious of group C before the party, but finally get solid proof (through ECL's sister, maybe) right before Finduilas' speech.

It would allow for some interesting interactions for the ladies of groups A and B.

Well, that's what caught my eye when reading, and I hope I can contribute more as we go.

[ May 24, 2003: Message edited by: alaklondewen ]

[*Varda*]

I should think Denethor and Ecthelion could just be worked into the posts themselves, as it seems most of the game takes place between the women – is it really necessary to have someone else playing them, when they would only be in a couple of posts? Although, if someone doesn’t have time to be in the whole game, but would like a minor part, I don’t see why not.

Yes, Finduilas should love Denethor – I think if we have to straighten out marriage difficulties as well, it could get difficult. At worst, she’d have a case of nerves right before the wedding.

Tying up the Denethor end – I do think Denethor has to know about what was going on at the end – otherwise it doesn’t really say much for the future Steward if his wife and father don’t tell him there were spies in the court. It probably doesn’t have to be a big issue – maybe just an indication of his distrust of Thorongil. So at the end, Denethor has been informed of Ecthelion’s plans for the Corsairs, and that Thorongil will help. The fact that Denethor’s a little less than pleased that Thorongil’s help is being sought with also set the scene for a sequel, maybe.

[Manardariel]

Yeah, Denethor should have a clue- after the party, mind you. Maybe he goes up to Finduilas after her speech and is like "What was THAT??" and she tells him and Ecthelion. Ecthelion runs off to plan a campaign and Denethor, for now, is proud of his wife. The last posts will cover the wedding, and the very last one could be one of the ladies hearing Ecthelion tell Denethor WHO´s going to work out the plan attaking the corsairs. The lady could go "Well that should prove intresting..." to herself. End of game. How does that sound??

[Lyra Greenleaf]

Perhaps I've been watching too many films- Man in the Iron Mas- but masked balls always seem to be a good way to get things done in secret! (Or is it just not Tolkien? He never said there weren't any masked balls- did he?)

[ May 25, 2003: Message edited by: Lyra Greenleaf ]

[*Varda*]

A masked ball could be interesting…do you think Tolkien would really mind? smilies/biggrin.gif It would make for an interesting party before the wedding – maybe Groups A and B aren’t entirely convinced that the double agent is telling the whole truth, and use the masked party to try and get some proof out of ECL, since ECL wouldn’t realie it was really Finduilas or one of her maids. Maybe a little complicated, or unnecessary detail, but it’s an idea.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Manardaril and crew,

Some clarification on the issue of posts and profiles.

I've spoken with Pio, and this is what we're going to run with. This accords with Shire policy and meets the concerns Manaradariel had. It will require some work on the part of the planners, but that's what we're here for! smilies/smile.gif

BTW, regarding the list of characters you've developed, I prefer you go with the figure 5 rather than 3 for the ones you'd listed as "3-5". We want to make sure to have at least some spots open for Shirelings to sign up later on the discussion thread. Also, since it's the summer, you're bound to have some people away for vacation and such, so a bigger crew is a good idea.

First, every planner who wants to play needs to tell that to the founders, and must also stipulate what character she wants to portray. Presumably you will do that on this thread. If there are conflicts over specific characters, you will have to work that out between yourselves with the help of the game founders.

BTW, if you're going to be away for big chunks of the summer, please don't sign up for a character who must be there every day for the full duration of the RPG. Instead opt for one of the more general ladies or maids in groups A and B, since there's more flexibility.

Secondly, when the proposal comes in, it must have the following appended: profiles and first posts from the three game founders (Sophie, Nuru, Manardariel), plus the complete list of planners' names with the characters they intend to play, and the specific spots that are still open for general sign-up on the discussion thread.

The other planners must submit their profiles and posts as soon as possible after the game proposal goes in. There will be a set day for the discussion thread to open. All the planners must get their profiles and posts to Pio before that date. If not, they lose their early sign-up and must take their chances with all the Shrirelings who sign up on the discussion thread.

I'd like to make a suggestion here. I would hate to see any of the planners lose their chance for early sign-up by missing the final deadline, since many of you have put work into this. Manardariel, Sophia, Nuru ---as game founders, you have the right to lay down whatever rules or guidelines you care to (at least reasonable ones!). You could ask that, once the list is decided on, everyone do their profiles and first posts on this thread, and then you could submit them with the game proposal.

Normally, I wouldn't be so nervous about this. However, with the recent concerns about bandwidth, we are understandably limited in the number of new games that will go up. The Shire is a heavy bandwidth user. Because of this, a new game can't go up until an old one ends. In the summer, there may be many people trying to get into a limited number of games. So, if I was a planner, I would definitely want to include my profile and first post with the game proposal. That way there won't be any missed deadlines.

You folk can work this out, but please let me know....

Also, Sophia, Nuru, and Manardariel, I'll be sending you a pm in the next few hours to clarify your duties as game founders.

Cami

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

[Manardariel]

OK Cami, got that. So, everybody: if you already have an idea who (or what kind of character) you´d like to play do so as soon we´re working on the worksheet. Please already include some sort of character description. I´m looking for something like:
*I´d like to play a maid from Group A who´s a bit too outgoing, even blunt.
or
*I´m interested in playing the double-agent. I was thinking of making her shy, and a bit dependant of her sister ECL.

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

Now. *runs over to get checklist* This is the questions we got from Cami in the beginning and part of the Shire Worksheet

1. Game will take place BEFORE the wedding. We decided this... right?

2.Clear cut ending: The wedding. By then ECL and her mom will be found out. Got that.

3. Conflict men vs. women: No. We decided against this. Instead, we have a confict between three groups of women

4. Crisis in Gondor: No, but two spies
and their wives/daughters

5. Finduilas´ infuence on Corsairs attack: Sort of. Finding out the spies, she proves that the corsairs ARE a peril, and Ecthelion starts planning a campaign

6.Network of Women Spies: Ohh yes. You bet... smilies/biggrin.gif

New Plotline: Finduilas of Dol Amroth and a group of her ladies have just arrived in Minas Tirith, where Finduilas is about to marry Denethor. There, they are greeted with some repudiation by the local ladies, and with ador by a group of three women and their husbands/father. These people call themselves "Friends from Dol Amroth". The ladies are suspcious, as they don´t know said Friends, and start investigating. It turns out the "Friends" are really spies of the corsairs, and the it´s the ladies job to stop them.
***********************************

Another Question:
We´re going to start in Minas Tirith, right? The original idea was to start in Dol amroth, but that just takes time and makes no sense, huh?

Wow, we´re pretty far! smilies/smile.gif

[Child of the 7th Age]

I personally feel Minas Tirith would be a good choice. In order to do the game in 8-10 weeks, you'll need to focus on what's really important.

Could the first scene be Finduilas' introduction to the court, after her arrival from Dol Amroth, with each of the characters watching her carefully and revealing their feelings about the situation?

Some of these posts could relate to their disappointment at seeing a "foreigner" come in. Others could concern personal things (e.g., the nurse's reservations on how Finduilas is now a full-grown woman) or the expectations of Finduilas' ladies and maids in hoping that things will go well for them in a new city.

This would be a clear cut way to start things out, and easy for people to compose a first post. Everyone would just need to keep in mind what their characters actually do and don't know about what's taking place.

One question: Will the spies be revealing who they are to the reader of the RPG, or will they keep these thoughts hidden away even from the reader until a certain point in the game??

Cami

[Manardariel]

That´s a great idea, Cami! Thanks!

Hmmm. I´m thinking about the spies being revealed to the reader... of course, it would be much more interesting if not, but also much harder to play. I suppose whoever´s play her would have to do always write "she" or "the woman" instead of a name... on the other hand, as ECL interacts with the other players, it´d be hard to do that. That´s the only way I can think of. If you have any other ideas, that´s fine though!

[alaklondewen]

One question: Will the spies be revealing who they are to the reader of the RPG, or will they keep these thoughts hidden away even from the reader until a certain point in the game??

I really like the latter idea. The reader should be suspicious of group C's manipulativeness, but not know who they are until further in the game. I think it would be more interesting for the reader to watch the spying and such without knowing all the answers.

I suppose whoever´s play her would have to do always write "she" or "the woman" instead of a name...

I'm not sure if that would be necessary. Do you think the reader could see their names, but not know exactly where they are from and what they are doing?

[ May 25, 2003: Message edited by: alaklondewen ]

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Yeah, Denethor should have a clue- after the party, mind you. Maybe he goes up to Finduilas after her speech and is like "What was THAT??" and she tells him and Ecthelion. Ecthelion runs off to plan a campaign and Denethor, for now, is proud of his wife. The last posts will cover the wedding, and the very last one could be one of the ladies hearing Ecthelion tell Denethor WHO´s going to work out the plan attaking the corsairs. The lady could go "Well that should prove intresting..." to herself. End of game. How does that sound??

This is great, Manardariel, perfect way for Denethor to still be informed, to keep things nice between him and Finduilas, but still leave room for Denethor's later conflict with Thorongil.

Cami- I'm still not quite clear on whether Thorongil would be kicking around the court at this time for Finduilas and the other ladies of all groups to comment on, or would he be somewhere else at this time? For the women to really know about T. and D.'s "conflict" he'd have to be around wouldn't he?

A masked ball could be interesting…do you think Tolkien would really mind? It would make for an interesting party before the wedding – maybe Groups A and B aren’t entirely convinced that the double agent is telling the whole truth, and use the masked party to try and get some proof out of ECL, since ECL wouldn’t realie it was really Finduilas or one of her maids. Maybe a little complicated, or unnecessary detail, but it’s an idea.

I love the idea of a masked ball. I don't know how plausible or Tolkien-true it is either, but my first thoughts were on the Scarlet Pimpenel, another excellent masked ball scene. I'd *love* to see this work out.

One question: Will the spies be revealing who they are to the reader of the RPG, or will they keep these thoughts hidden away even from the reader until a certain point in the game??
**************************

I really like the latter idea. The reader should be suspicious of group C's manipulativeness, but not know who they are until further in the game. I think it would be more interesting for the reader to watch the spying and such without knowing all the answers.


I suppose this could be done in two ways, if we needed to know that spying was being done, but not who was doing it, it would be very difficult, as Manardariel suggested, because "the woman" would have to remain unnamed so that nobody would know who she was, but then when it came to interacting with the other characters you still couldn't use her name, or the reader would know that she was the spy, because of who played her.

The other way it could be done is Alak's suggestion, that nobody knows anyone is spying at all until later in the game. I suppose that could work, but I think it would be more interesting to show the spying as it takes place. I think my vote is for the reader to know about ECL from the beginning, or at least very early in the game.

Cami, I'll be checking my pms smilies/smile.gif

Sophia

[alaklondewen]

I'm sorry...I've been misunderstood a little, maybe I should have said it a different way.

When I said that the reader could see the spying without knowing the answers, I meant the spying done by groups A and B, not by group C. It would be similar to a mystery where you know who is acting suspicious, but you don't know the exact details of what they have done.

Sorry for the confusion, I hope this makes more sense.

[Manardariel]

If I got you right, you mean the reader sees everything through group A&B´s POV. In that case, we couldn´t use the POV of group C, which would basically mean we couldn´t have anyone play them, riiight? I don´t think that´s a good idea, but if I mizunderstood you, just tell me, ok?


Cami- I'm still not quite clear on whether Thorongil would be kicking around the court at this time for Finduilas and the other ladies of all groups to comment on, or would he be somewhere else at this time? For the women to really know about T. and D.'s "conflict" he'd have to be around wouldn't he? I guess he wasn´t around all the time, maybe only during occasional visits, and I guess he was invited to the wedding.... but Cami can help you out on that one!

[ May 25, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

"Was Throngil kicking around the court?"

Cami can help you out on that one." ot exactly because I'm not sure!

Hmm, I always had the impression he did not set foot in Minis Tirith at this time, but stayed down in Pelargir and places like that. I know that, after the victory against Minis Tirith in 2980, he disappeared rather than coming back to Minis Tirith and gaining the honor he deserved.

I am not 100% sure. But it seemed from things said in LotR that Aragorn had not been in Minis Tirith for a very long time. But just how long I'm not sure. Does anyone here know more about this? Maybe someone should raise this question in Books.

However, even if he wasn't physically at court, I think people would have heard of him in policy discussions and such. Remember that he was also working for the King of Rohan. And, if Denethor, didn't like Aragorn, that word could have gotten around.

Cami

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

[alaklondewen]

If I got you right, you mean the reader sees everything through group A&B´s POV. In that case, we couldn´t use the POV of group C, which would basically mean we couldn´t have anyone play them, riiight? I don´t think that´s a good idea, but if I mizunderstood you, just tell me, ok?

Oh no! I think both point of views should be played and shown, however group C doesn't necessarily need to say, "hey, we work for the Corsairs!" They could play their parts as power hungry and manipulative and never mention who they are working for (until later of course, I'm just talking about he beginning).

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

However, even if he wasn't physically at court, I think people would have heard of him in policy discussions and such. Remember that he was also working for the King of Rohan. And, if Denethor, didn't like Aragorn, that word could have gotten around.

Aah, that works. Even if he wasn't exactly known per se, at least they'd have heard of him. smilies/wink.gif Drat, probably means there aren't any fair ladies of Minas Tirith who are swooning over the mysterious Thorongil then...

I might actually stick that question in the Books section, simply to get an answer though. Thanks Cami.

Sophia

[Durelin]

Sorry I haven't helped a lot, I tried, but...

Are you sure the women of Minas Tirith should be almost spiteful? Then we've almost have more antagonists...right? Wouldn't it be smoother if the Minas Tirith women helped in some way? Or, we could make it real interesting be having the women with Finduilas working to uncover these spies, and the Minas Tirith women are also? Perhaps then the Minas Tirith women could suspect the women with Finduilas as spies? And then we have a whole ton of interesting twists. Perhaps the reasons the Minas Tirith women could think that Finduilas's people are spies is because of rumors from the bad people (like you already talked about) and also from the way the 'Group A' is acting, trying to find the spies... So, really it's the same thing as everyone had planned out so far, except that the Minas Tirith women are attempting to do the same thing as Group A, but are on the wrong track.

Well, kinda went in a big circle there, and I kept switching around what I called all the groups, but...hmmmm...I didn't really contribute much. Sorry, mesa trying! smilies/frown.gif

[Manardariel]

Oh no! I think both point of views should be played and shown, however group C doesn't necessarily need to say, "hey, we work for the Corsairs!" They could play their parts as power hungry and manipulative and never mention who they are working for (until later of course, I'm just talking about he beginning).

That makes sense! Actually, that´s really cool! smilies/smile.gif I declare this as decided. Does anyone object? (Note to self: stop watching Judge Judy and Ally McBeal smilies/wink.gif) Drat, probably means there aren't any fair ladies of Minas Tirith who are swooning over the mysterious Thorongil then... aww, that´s too bad. But it gives food to rumors, rumors, glorious romurs! "Have you heard of that Thorongil? He´s said to be very handsome..." "Some people think he´s an elf who´s come to help us." That should be fun! smilies/biggrin.gif

edit: Durelin, I like the idea of group B thinking group A are spies... that should be intresting! We should have them combine somewhere in the middle though, maybe with group B accusing group A, who natrually just starts laughing... smilies/biggrin.gif Dudess, I like that one. Only maybe it´s to complicated?

[ May 25, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[Durelin]

Yes, it is quite complicated, though I think it could be pulled off. That is, if we are all smart people here...which we are, of course. Yes, of course. *cough* smilies/wink.gif

But seriously, now that I really think about it...RPGs certainly have limitations...basically on how much the human brain can handle! smilies/biggrin.gif But, it really could be hilarious if we had the masked ball, and Group A was poking around Group C, and Group B sees them and starts poking around Group A...that could be funny, but the reason it would be is because of the chaos. Chaos is hard to RP...

We could have Group A and B combine forces, but each possibly working toward a different end? Maybe they both want to eradicate the baddies, but Group A wants the wedding, and perhaps Group B doesn't because they want Denethor to marry someone of Minas Tirith, so that Minas Tirith is ruled by people of Minas Tirith and Minas Tirith only. Maybe each tries to use the other, but in the end...either Group B comes to like Finduilas, or Group A succeeds in one way or another.

Hmmmmmmm...planning might prove to be the most complicated...

[Manardariel]

No, no, no STOP! I like the idea about A and B misunderstning each other untill some point, but there´s no need to exaggerate. Here´s an idea.

How to bring some Chaos in an RPG
At first group B thinks group A are spies and group C just a nuisance. They start spying around, and somewhere during the maskball (this is not the Finduilas speach party, right? I´m a bit confused) B confronts A, who just go wild with amusement. They have a serious talk, and then combine forces to let C be overthrown. B accepts the fact that the marriage is inevitable and work with A.

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

How to bring some Chaos in an RPG
At first group B thinks group A are spies and group C just a nuisance. They start spying around, and somewhere during the maskball (this is not the Finduilas speach party, right? I´m a bit confused) B confronts A, who just go wild with amusement. They have a serious talk, and then combine forces to let C be overthrown. B accepts the fact that the marriage is inevitable and work with A.


I like this. I think we can definately handle two parties in one RPG, and I also think it offers the most plausible idea of how group B eventually warms up to group A. Plus it's fun and lighthearted to have B chasing the wrong "spies"; could be the source of lots of comical mixups (imagine the "suspicious" things they could overhear! smilies/biggrin.gif).

Then Finduilas' speech party would be a non-mask party, as everyone would be wanting to "formally" meet her then anyway, so it would help to have her face uncovered. smilies/smile.gif I like, I like!

Sophia

[Lyra Greenleaf]

When will the game start, do you think? I really want to get involved but I'll be away for two weeks at the end of july/beginning of august.

[Durelin]

Okay, I'll stop. So, you seriously took my idea! AWESOME!! smilies/biggrin.gif This is going to be fun... You know, I already have begun my bio, and I'm having lots of fun with it! Is it too early for you to receive bios? Because I hope to finish mine quite soon, expecially since we're so deep into the planning...yes...deep. I was thinking I'd play a woman of Minas Tirith. So...what status would these women be? Maids? Ladies? Ladies in waiting? Could the head cook even be involved?

[maikafanawen]

Wow! We are really far along! This is very exciting.

The masked ball—masquerade—is a brilliant idea, and it wouldn’t be the same party dedicated to Finduilas—obviously. You guys are so clever.

I have a question about the character cast for Group C...Who is “her mother”. I thought that ECL was the one who was trying to marry Denethor. I don’t think ECL should be the family. In my opinion, I think that ECL should have two other people behind her—ladies in waiting—and then her sister. Is there a certain reason you wanted her mother there or—I’m just wondering.

smilies/biggrin.gif I am interested though in playing ECL--the head Corsairess. I think that it would be interesting if she was evil--but not enitrely aware of it. Has anyone read Elfsong by Elaine Cunningham? I'd like her to be sort of like Garnet/Iriador. She believes that the corsairs have been robbed of what is rightfully theirs and simply wants it back. However, ECL goes about this completely the wrong way by manipulating people and trying to overthrow Finduilas and claim Minas Tirith for herself, all the while thinking she's just being noble. About 1/3 to 2/3 of the way through however she just becomes greedy and starts being a tad more careless and vengeful, enabling Groups A and B to catch on to her and her posse.

Another question, by the way, what does Group C do that makes Groups A & B start to suspect them?

In order for ECL to attain her position as the head corsairess she would have to be fair and honey-tongued as well as a developed spy. ECL would most probably have been trained in the arts of observation, stealth, and deception in order for her to be the one sent for this job. Also this would make it sensible for her sister (double agent) to have had the same training and is therefore almost as equally advanced--just younger and perhaps less fair--though pure of heart.

I'll also have access to a computer for the entire summer.

-Maikafanawen

[alaklondewen]

Another question, by the way, what does Group C do that makes Groups A & B start to suspect them?

I believe the initial suspicion will come from Group C calling themselves "Friends from Dol Amroth". Since Group A is from Dol Amroth, their not knowing the "friends" will be enough to spark some suspicion.

[*Varda*]

Oh, this is just getting better and better! I love the idea of Group B suspecting Group A - it could just be so funny! – However, what have Group A done to be suspected? Did Group B overhear something Group C said, and mistake it for something Group A said, or is it just because Group A are the newcomers to the court?

Incidentally, I’m quite interested in playing of the maids for Group B. Shy, quiet, follows what everyone else says, mainly. Still working on her character, though.

[ May 26, 2003: Message edited by: *Varda* ]

[Manardariel]

You name it, alak!

MaikaI love your character idea! Ok, about ECL, we originally thought she was one of the "Friends" daughter. Her mother was probably once what ECL is today -head spy of the corsairs- only ECL is actively trying to overthrow Denethor while her mom tried to undermine it. She was the one who taught her two daughters spying and all that. I personally think this would suppost your character idea, because ECL also grew up while hearing "corsairs are good, stewards are bad". Hope that cleared some confusion!

Durelin, and everyone else

Ranks possible to play in group A
Ladies in Waiting
Maids
Scolar (??)
Old Maid

Ranks possible in group B
Maids
Ladies (wives of the court VIPs)
Young aristocratic Ladies sent to court for education
The Head Cook! (I love this one! smilies/smile.gif)

Lyra, and everyone else
If we get the worksheet done sometime soon, we should be able to start playing in mid-June.

[Manardariel]

First (rough) draft for Shire worksheet

Title: The Princess Guard (I don´t like this title... ideas?)

Basic Storyline:
Finduilas of Dol Amroth and a group of her ladies have just arrived in Minas Tirith, where Finduilas is about to marry Denethor. There, they are greeted with some repudiation by the local ladies, and with ador by a group of three women. These people call themselves "Friends from Dol Amroth". The ladies are suspcious, as they don´t know said Friends, and start investigating. It turns out the "Friends" are really spies of the corsairs, and the it´s the ladies job to stop them.

The purpose of the story is to: celebrate the weddding and uncover the spies

This means we will know the story is over when: The weddding is celebrated and the spies are uncovered

Historical Backround: (thanks Cami! smilies/smile.gif)

Ecthelion II was the son of Steward Turgon, and was a wise and foresightful Man. He put his efforts into strengthening his realm against the approaching danger of Sauron, who had openly revealed himself in the last years of Turgon's Stewardship. He was aided in this work by Gandalf, and by a mysterious stranger named 'Thorongil', who was later known to be none other than Aragorn. It was Throngil who constantly urged Ecthelion to take a stand against the rebels in Umbar. In 2980, just four years after this story takes place, Thorongil finally got permission from the Steward to go ahead and destroyed most of the Corsair ships with little loss of life. After this Aragorn disappeared, never having set foot in Minis Tirith.

Tolkien implies that Ecthelion's son Denethor viewed Thorongil as his rival and was pleased to see him leave. Moreover, Denethor had a much more negative attitude towards Gandalf. It is said that, even before becoming steward, Denethor learned of Gandalf's plans to restore the Heir of Isildur to the throne, and this accounts for his lifelong distrust of both the wizard and Aragorn.

In 2984, Ecthelion died and was succeeded as Steward by Denthor, who ruled Gondor at the time of the War of the Ring. Denethor's later history and eventual suicide is well known from the LotR.

Finduilas of Dol Amroth was born in 2950 TA, and married Denethor in 2976, the year this game takes place. She was a lady of great beauty and gentle heart who died when she will still young, just twelve years after her marriage. She was the mother of Boromir and Farimir, characters well known to us from LotR. Tolkien states the following: Denethor loved her, in his fashion, more dearly than any other, unless it was the elder of the sons that she bore him. But it seemed to men that she withered in the guarded city, as a flower of the seaward vales set upon a barren rock. The shadow in the east filled her with horror, and she turned her eyes ever south to the seas that she missed.With her passing in 2988, Denethor became increasingly depressed and withdrawn

Startintg Location: Citadel of Mins Tirith

Likely destination: Citadel of Minas Tirith

Timeframes:

This game takes place in the third Age at around year 2976

The storyline itself or plot covers six to eight??? weeks.

This game requires a time commitment of about two months (a bit more?) from me, the game owner and from the major players.

Characters: – be specific as to type:

Main character types are: ONLY FEMALE!

Finduilas´ Group (GROUP A)
Ladies-in-waiting
Maids
Old Maid
Scolar (??)

Minas Tirith Group (Group B)
Maids
Servants
Wives/daughters of the court VIPs
Young aristocratic girls from the provinces, send to court to be educated

Evil Group (Group C)
ECL
her sister (the double agent)
her mother

Secondary character types likely are: Like the main characters, only they don´t appear that often

Character types which would not belong: GUYS, elves, hobbits, dwarves, ents....

So we still need
*A better title (I think...)
*A better idea how much time we need

That´s all! Wow! So I guess you can start submitting characters... and any critics are welcome. It was only a draft. smilies/smile.gif

[ May 26, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[maikafanawen]

Oh yes, now I understand about her mother. Good idea. I think that there should be a few secondary characters--which whoever plays ECL, or the mother could play that are also maids of the Friends of Dol Amroth. I think they should be a bigger group and also be able to spy throughout the Citadel.

IDea #2: For other secondary characters--such as guys--each person who plays a wife or an auristocratic woman should also sort of implant a few noblemen throughout their posts so it is obvious that there are tons of guys still around the citadel even though they're not being played. I'm sure you've allready mentioned something on that line but just to make sure.

I am so excited for this RPG!! Planning it has been half the fun!!

-Maikafanawen

[Durelin]

Please can I be the head cook? I have the perfect character, and I want to wack people with my great wooden spoon of justice and hard work! smilies/biggrin.gif

But, anyway...I was thinking about the title, and...here's some ideas from me:

The Corset Underground (or The Petticoat Underground, but do they wear petticoats?)

The Furtive Friends of Dol Amroth

The Convoluted Wedding

Emissaries of Silk

I don't know, most were 'spur-of-the-moment' things...Oh, and about the time-span, I think that it would be best if we went with at least two months to play this game. We can really do a lot with it, and if Pio and Cami don't mind, it would be great if we could have time to do that 'lot'. And, if we finish early, it's all the better! What does everyone else think?

Glad to help!

*-Durelin-*(who now signs all of her posts for some reason...)

[Manardariel]

The corset undergroundlol. I love this... brilliant, Durelin. Anyone diagree? smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

Durelin, I´m cool with the head cook. Confirmed. (Unless someone objects...)

Maika- "evil maids" are cool, but I´m not so sure if we shouldn´t leave the guys out of there... I mean, of course you can write stuff like "She met her husband", but I don´t think someone should PLAY that husband. Because afterall this is a "Women Only" RPG... so yeah, I don´t think so. That´s just my opinion though.

Cami or Pio- how long can Shire Gmes go?? I´d also go for 8 weeks, but I´m not sure if it´s allowed... clafirication, please? smilies/smile.gif

More Titeles (most of these suck)

Much ador about a Wedding Lady Spies The Bride and the Spy Behind the Scenes The Three Parties

[ May 26, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[Durelin]

You can usually do two months, that's the time I put on my RPG, but...I guess with the bandwith thing...we might not be able to. We probably could, right goodly mods?

smilies/biggrin.gif

Yay! Head cook bio coming up!

*-Durelin-*

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Maika- "evil maids" are cool, but I´m not so sure if we shouldn´t leave the guys out of there... I mean, of course you can write stuff like "She met her husband", but I don´t think someone should PLAY that husband. Because afterall this is a "Women Only" RPG... so yeah, I don´t think so. That´s just my opinion though.

I'm not sure this would be a problem. I mean, I don't think we ought to write entire posts from a male's point of view, but I don't think it takes away from the "Women only-ness" for someone to post "Denethor looked up in surprise as Finduilas swept into the room..." or whatever, am I making sense?

as for titles:

Emissaries of Silk

I loved this one. I don't have very many good ideas otherwise, but if someone who's good with titles can think of one that has to do with rumors that would be great. If a large part of the RPG is going to occur at the parties it could have something to do with a mask? *bites lip* I don't think these are any good...

Sophia

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Ack! Another question... Is Ecthelion's wife around? Is Finduilas getting a mother-in-law?

Sophia

[piosenniel]

8 weeks would be cutting it close for this RPG, I think, since it seems there will be much subterfuge and subplot deepening in it.

How about we say 8 to 10 weeks? That way you will get a notice from me at 6 weeks and then again at 8 weeks that the game needs to move to its stated end goal.

I do need to clarify a couple of areas with you:

Who are(is) the owner(s) of the game? I prefer that it be 3 or less people. It's easier for me to coordinate with them. And will all the owners share the same ability to make decisions for the game, or will their be one chief owner and the others will defer to her decisions?

I am also thinking there will be dedicated character spots for those who have helped in the planning process. Correct?

When you submit the Game Proposal, I only need the Character Descriptions of each owner and their First Posts on it, for the game to be reviewed. Plus a simple list under Character's Needed of writer's names who will have a dedicated character for the game.

The other writers, then, should submit their Character Bios and First Posts to the owners (and it would be good if the owners dedicated ONE person to receive them). The owners will then review those themselves and ask for changes or additions via PM.

Once they are satisfactory, then submit them to me IN THE ORDER IN WHICH YOU WANT THEM POSTED ON THE GAME.

OR - you can set up this process at the END of the Planning Thread after the Game Proposal is done and sent in - I just need all the posts for the additional writers together, in one place, and preferably in order, or with a clear list of names for me in order. It makes it easier for me to set up the Game.

All the Character Bios and the First Posts of the dedicated characters must be in before I open the Discussion Thread for the Game.
***********

To Summarize:

Submit the Game Proposal with:

1.) Character Bios and First Posts for the owner(s) only.

2.) A list, under Characters, of the names of the writers who will have dedicated character spots in the game. (This is in addition, of course, to the other characters needed that prospective gamers will be able to try out for.)

Then, by PM or at the end of this Planning Thread:

Gather all the Character Bios with attached First Posts for the those on your list of dedicated characters - either put them in order, if you receive them by PM, and send them to me.

OR have your writers for these dedicated characters place them at the END of this discussion thread, grouped together, with a list for me at the end of this group of the order in which they are to appear on the Game.

Thanks! ~~ Pio

email: piosenniel@barrowdowns.com

[maikafanawen]

Title Ideas:

The Masked Betrayal

Rumors of Deciet

Ladies of Majesty and Mystery

--I've got more but I'm running out to my first volleyball game--yippee--

Do I get to be the ECL? I would like to start on a bio soon if I can. Thanks!

-Maikafanawen

[Durelin]

Here's a couple more:

Rumors in Rouge

The Trio of Conniving Delegations

I'll think of more...

EDIT: Another! I like this!

The Masqueraded Espionage of Feminine Scrutiny

EDIT again: Here's another two amusing ones!

The Undercover Moles in Dresses and Stockings

The Needle, the Thread, and the Powder Box of Surveillance

or

The Silk, Flowers, and Powder Boxes of Espionage (or Surveillance)

? smilies/biggrin.gif

[ May 26, 2003: Message edited by: Durelin ]

[Lyra Greenleaf]

*Sigh* Well I guess that means I'll have to take a minor character as I'm going to disappear for 2 weeks half way through. We have to do this again ladies! I'd like a character which involves cattiness, but that will be fine for both Group B and C. I'd like to be someone nobly born rather than a maid or anything. I'll wait and see what you need after everyone else has chosen since- as I said- I'm not going to be around the whole time.

Title Ideas:
Corsairs and corsets (Sounds a bit odd but I like the idea of 2 alliterative but dissimilar words)
A courtly affair (Sounds more like romance!)
A malicious masquerade

[*Varda*]

I love Corsairs and Corsets! It has a nice ring to it! I’m still working on my character – it took me forever to even decide what to play. I’m away for a week at the end of June though, just to warn you in advance.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Sopia, Nurumaiel, Manardariel,

As Pio indicated, we need some clarfication regarding the game founding. I know the three of you will be doing it. (Not the 11 as Pio asked!)

This would be my suggestion. All three of you be listed as equal game founders. But, on a practical basis, if a routine question arises, we'll try to bring it to Manardariel's attention first, since she's taken the initial lead in the planning. She'll coordinate and get in touch with you (Sophia and Nuru) as needed.

However, if there is a clear cut problem on the thread which requires immediate action, we would want all three of you to feel you have the authority to act to correct it, or to respond to an urgent request about the game sent by Pio or myself. So if we can't get hold of Manardariel (which could easily happen), we'll approach either Sophia or Nuru, and any of you will feel free to act quickly.

This does happen sometimes, especially when profiles and posts are first submitted.

How does that arrangement sound?

Cami (Child)

[ May 26, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Sounds splendid to me, Cami.


Corsairs and Corsets

smilies/biggrin.gif That's hillarious! Would it sound better as Corsets and Corsairs?


Sophia

[Manardariel]

Corsairs and Corsets RULES!! This is awesome... I think we have a title. smilies/smile.gif Yeah, Cami that´s fine with me.

Ok everyone. I´ll start a list of interested characters.

Group A
(no one yet, though my character most probably will)

Group B
Head Cook (Durelin)
Catty Noble (Lyra)

Group C
ECL (Maika)

Lyra, *Varda* and everyone else, I don´t think you "have to" play minor characters if you´ll be away for one or two week. We´ll have a fairly large crew, so up to, say, 15 days with no PC acces is no big problem. However, if you want to play a minor character, feel free to do so! Ack! Another question... Is Ecthelion's wife around? Is Finduilas getting a mother-in-law? I REALLY don´t know... and it doesn´t say in the Appendixes smilies/frown.gif. Phew, this may be a problem. We could play with those "bad mother-in-law" chlicees, making her (I´m not sure there´s even a name in there!) the leader of group B... or we just leave her out. If anyone is interested in playing her, I guess we can work her in. If not, let´s just say she´s dead. OK?

[alaklondewen]

I am interested in playing the part of a married aristocrat from Minas Tirith (Group B). She is an older woman who is over-bearing and set in her ways. She also believes her daughter should have been the next in line to marry Denethor, which of course is all in her head. Being most likely the first to feel jealous of Finduilas, she would probably be one of the last to come around and trust Group A.

Since the mother is such a strong character, the daughter could be a secondary character. The daughter could be either mousy and always in her mother's shadow, or she could be a spoiled brat.

Anyway, tell me what you think.

[Nurumaiel]

Okay, I'm here! I apologize for my absence. I just skimmed over everything, but I'll be reading it more thoroughly later when I have time. Just wanted to drop by and see how things were going, let you all know I was still here, and ask if the double agent (the sister, I believe) from Group C was still available. And, if so, if Manardariel would have the kindess to give me permission to play her.

[Carlas]

Darn it, Nurumaiel got to it before me! Well, I can probably be some person in group B, but Ill get back to you guys on that when I've got time to think up a character!

Sorry if I havent posted much this weekend, but it was my birthday, and I went away a lot! But I have more time now!

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

I'd be interested in playing a very lighthearted part. Possibly from Minas Tirith, but I'd really love to be one of Finduilas' girls. Preferably pretty, noble, spoiled, flirtatious, and not too bright. I'll be playing some real heavy parts this summer, so I'd definately like something to lighten the mood. smilies/wink.gif

But I can realistically play anything that's needed, and I haven't thought at all about a character, so I can be flexible and fit anywhere.

Sophia

[Edit: Manardariel, were you going to play Finduilas, I had just assumed you would, being our fearless leader smilies/wink.gif. Someone ought to... ]

[ May 26, 2003: Message edited by: Sophia the Thunder Mistress ]

[Annunfuiniel]

Sorry everyone, I really haven't contributed much to the planning... But I'd really like to play the part of the Old Maid if that's ok.

I won't be online much until next week but I'll try to check in daily to see how we are doing (I'll wake up at 5AM to browse the Downs; that's my only 'free hour' at the moment...).

~Annun

[Manardariel]

Revised Character List
Group A
Finduilas (Manardariel)
Spoiled Girl (Sophia)
Old Maid (Annun)


Group B
Head Cook (Durelin)
Catty Noble (Lyra)
Mother Noble (alak)
Daughter of Mother Noble (also alak? Or is anyone else interested?)

Group C
ECL (Maika)

Carlas: HAPPY BITHDAY! :´) I´m checking with Nuru if you can maybe play the double agent, as you created her... so hang on on this.

[Nurumaiel]

Carlas
I just PMed Manardariel and you're all set to play the double agent.

I also PMed her asking to play the old maid, but it seems as though Annun got there first.

So, Manardariel, may I play the daughter from Group B (Daughter of Mother Noble)?

[*Varda*]

Right now my character is in Group B - a girl sent to the court to recieve an education - she's friendly, loves reading, also lies often, since she wants to seem as interesting as the characters in the books that she reads.

[Durelin]

Do you want us to post our bios here or PM them to you?

'Corairs and Corsets', bloody brilliant, as you Brits would say Lyra!! smilies/wink.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[ May 27, 2003: Message edited by: Durelin ]

[Manardariel]

Group A
Finduilas (Manardariel)
Spoiled Girl (Sophia)
Old Maid (Annun)

Group B
Head Cook (Durelin)
Catty Noble (Lyra)
Mother Noble (alak)
Daughter of Mother Noble (Nuru)
Bookworm Girl (*Varda*)

Group C
ECL (Maika)
Double Agent (Carlas)

>> Please PM me your bios so I can attach them to our proposal. Thanks!

[Manardariel]

Some idea worth discussing

Nicknames
Hey, do you think it´d be fun to have everyone who´s spying gets a "deckname", having to with their character or rank? Like the Cook could be "Big Spoon" or Finduilas "Top Girl"- whaddya think?

Finduilas Role
Is Finduilas going to actively participate in the spying? I´d go for a yes, but I´m not sure if that´s a good idea, afterall she IS a princess...

Kids
I was thinking it´d be funny with some kids, Group A and B´s, that could always do stuff like delaying ECL by nocking paint over her head.... comments?

[*Varda*]

I doubt she'd really be actively involved. Maybe do a lot of the planning, working out what to do - but I can't really see a princess sneaking around and spreading rumours. She'd get people to do that for her. Stuff like the speech seems more up her street.

And the bio is on its way to you.

[piosenniel]

Please note:

I need a bio AND a first post from each dedcated player - please submit them together.

[Nurumaiel]

Manardariel,

Do you have a date set for bios and first posts being sent to you? I still have to catch up on a lot of the thread and plan out on my character a little. Let me know.

[alaklondewen]

I was just doing some research on Ecthelion, and I used a link provided by Bethberry to the Annals of Arda. It shows Denethor II as having two unnamed sisters! I've never seen this, and I've been searching fervently through the Appendices and UT and I can't find where it says this in the Books. Has anyone else seen or heard of these sisters? If they did exist, it might be interesting to see them in the game, even if they are minor characters.

[Manardariel]

Everyone- please submit bios and first posts seperately!! I´m saving both in Word documents- seperate ones. So please send them seperatly. "Due date" will be the First of June. Is that ok with everyone?

Having said that....
Ohhh, Denethor´s sisters... that would be totally cool! Anyone interested?

Do you think it would be ok if I worked in a younger sister for Finduilas as my character? I´d love to play someone involved in the spying, and as Finduilas won´t do that... is that ok with you guys? (Man, I feel soo democratic! smilies/wink.gif)

Any opinions on the Nicks and Kids?

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Nicks I like a lot, if used in moderation. Kids... eh, maybe not? I think it would rather complicate things and really aren't they already complicated enough?

smilies/biggrin.gif If there's going to be a Denethor's sister part going... I'd gladly take it instead of what I have, provided I can give her a rather similar personality to what I was already planning-- flirty and lighthearted and not too bright.

[Edit: I think the only person that hasn't posted a preference of character yet is Arien. We should save her a spot, as she's gone right now and can't post a bio?!]

Sophia

[ May 28, 2003: Message edited by: Sophia the Thunder Mistress ]

[Manardariel]

Sophia, if you want to play one of Denethor´s Sisters- fine with me.

So Nicks yes, Kids no? smilies/smile.gif

Everyone to avoid any misunderstanding- you have to send me a COMPLETE bio and then a first post; those little descriptions are NOT enough. smilies/smile.gif

[piosenniel]

Yes, please use this Character Description Form everyone:

For your character please include:

NAME:

AGE:

RACE:

GENDER:

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

APPEARANCE:

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

HISTORY:

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

A FIRST POST FOR YOUR CHARACTER MUST ACCOMPANY THIS FORM.

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

All right, Manardariel, one complete bio for a sister of Denethor coming right up.

I do have a few questions on how to competently write it however.

Numenorean Aging- How old is old? According to Tolkien at this point Denethor is in his 40s, Finduilas is 26. According to the site Alak found, Denethor's sisters were both older than him. Is this too old for them to be considered among the young ladies of Minas Tirith? Should they be married?

Second Question, Two is better than one? I think it would be fun to write both of Denethor's sisters and make them move as a unit almost. This could work regardless of their age or marital status. Each one would have less individual characterization, but together they'd be a force to be reckoned with. Yes? No?

I do need feedback rather soon if I'm to get a bio to Manardariel tomorrow, however. smilies/confused.gif

Sophia

[alaklondewen]

My question is...where are we in our first post? Are we watching Finduilas being introduced to the court, or can we introduce our characters maybe getting ready for said introduction? Please let us know Manardariel what you think.

Sophia, I think the idea of the two sister working together is a great idea! How fun...and there is a lot of potential for comedy there.

[Durelin]

I am almost done with my first post (my bio has been long complete) and I have decided that I'm going to have the cook over hear some serving boys talking about the suspicious people from Dol Amroth. The cook will run off to tell someone about it (anyone volunteer?) and that passes throughout the gossip group of Minas Tirith, and they will have to decide whether it's group A or B, since they both say they're from Dol Amroth.

That good, you think? it seemed the best way. Information is likely to pass through the kitchens. The noblewoman could've met them, and already know, and so could anyone in a reasonable status. But anyone who's around a servant I could tell. Right?

[maikafanawen]

Manadariel: I also was wondering where we are during our first post. Would my character--ECL--be speaking with nobles etc. or what. Should I begin mine with her being told of her mission etc. and preparing to go to Minas Tirith as a "Friend of Dol Amroth" with her mother and sister? Since there's not really a lot of information regarding character's personalities, I'm just going to throw my first post together loosely, but efficiently none-the-less. I'll get back to you ASAP.

I don't think there should be kids. And since I'm going to be playing ECL I'm going to stand up for her too, smilies/biggrin.gif. ECL is going to be the evil woman. I think that the nobles etc. should fear her and her influence she'll have on Denethor and his father. If there's going to be any story at all, ECL is going to have to have a very good chance at overthrowing Finduilas and her posse, otherwise it would be a slow and hero/disney like RPG. Kids dumping paint on her head is no good, smilies/wink.gif.

-Maikafanawen

[EDIT]: Manardariel- How long will Group C have been in Minas Tirith before Group A arrives? Group B wouldn't be suspicious of Group C right? THey'd wait until after Group A is suspicious because the suspiciousness starts when Group A is wary of Group C's connections in Dol Amroth--right?

[ May 29, 2003: Message edited by: maikafanawen ]

[ May 29, 2003: Message edited by: maikafanawen ]

[Manardariel]

Maika- Judging what we said about the mother already being the spy, at least one geberation.

Everyone I´m sorry to sort of have forgotten about this, but we discussed the first post of the gane being Finduilas being presesnted to court, and the player´s first post wouldbe their reflections on this. Sorry Durelin, and everyone else! smilies/confused.gif

[alaklondewen]

Manardariel-Is it possible that you could post Finduilas' first post, so we aren't all seeing something that is comepletely different? That would be so helpful.

Thanks.

[Durelin]

Sorry? What is there to be sorry about, Manard? Just kinda confused...

How long will Group C have been in Minas Tirith before Group A arrives? Group B wouldn't be suspicious of Group C right? THey'd wait until after Group A is suspicious because the suspiciousness starts when Group A is wary of Group C's connections in Dol Amroth--right?


Did you answer this question already, Manard? I'm confused about that too. This is quite hectic, and especially for you! smilies/biggrin.gif This must be a pain, eh?

[Nurumaiel]

Alak has filled me in a little on my character and her family so I can get my bio and first post done by the due date. Thanks so much, Alak!

Now, for my bio, I was wondering: Since my character was hoping to marry Denethor, she should be around the same age as Finduilas, right? I was thinking about 24 or 25? Does that sound all right?

[Lyra Greenleaf]

EDITED: Apparantly Big Brother fans like to sleep. Sorry about the terrible writing! So, I started to add a love story as a reason for her to want to help out. Otherwise I'm not sure what reason I could give her except for impressing the guy?

NAME: Emilia

AGE: 21

RACE: Human- Gondorian

GENDER: Female
WEAPONS: None
APPEARANCE: Curly brown hair falling below her waist which she takes loving care of. Dark brown eyes which have a wide eyed helpless look around men and a hard glint among women. Rather tight fitting, low cut dresses and lots of jewellery. Freckles- the bane of her life.

HISTORY: Has grown up in the court at Minas Tirith with only a very vague sense of anything outside the city- soldiers are merely to be admired and flirted with. Has a strict mother and a doting father- both of whom are in the countryside visiting her older brother and his new baby. Is now seriously looking for a husband as she does not want to end up an old maid- a type of woman she pities and ridicules. However, she does want to marry for love.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Emilia is clever although she usually only uses it for cunning and thinking of witty, biting remarks. She has few good female friends but admired by most men. Truly loves her father and brother, but has a strained relationship with her mother. Acts empty headed and helpless around men, a policy which other women don’t like but often seems to work in catching male attention. Very manipulative, sees it as a sort of hobby.
*****************

“Oh dear!”
Emilia shook her head just enough to make her hair sway prettily but without tangling it. From the corner of her eye she watched the off duty City Guard. He is looking!Emilia widened her eyes.

“Oh no. What shall I do?”
Once again she looked at the Guard. He was definitely watching her. Quite appraisingly too. Irritation flared. That was very crude of him. With an internal sigh she decided he would never do to marry. Not if he went around looking at all pretty girls like that. Still, he was attractive. Why is he not offering to help? Oaf!

Unhappily she turned to him, deciding to try the direct approach.
“Will you please help me? I’m trying to find the Houses of Healing, and I can’t remember the way.”
Discreetly Emilia batted her eyelashes. It was always best to be discreet, she had never yet been accused of flirting by a man.

Annoyingly the man raised an eyebrow, and gave a slight smile.
“The Houses of Healing? And why would you be going there? You don’t look ill to me”
Insolence! The gall of this man! Emilia was unsure how to reply. She had never been questioned in this way before! Most of the Guards would just be happy to escort her, to talk to her.

“I-I have a message for one of the healers.”
“Very well” the man replied, again with that insolent half smile. Immediately he turned and began to walk briskly, cloak swirling around his legs. Emilia hurried to follow, blood boiling. He was indeed walking briskly, she could hardly keep up.

With a start Emilia realised she was passing her own front door. Her ‘escort’ had not yet looked back to check whether she was following. With a small smile Emilia turned aside and entered her house.
I believe I win, she said to herself.
************
Emilia looked around the gathering in disgust. There were so many women! “Where are all the men?” she asked the old lady sitting to her left.
“Some trouble with, well I own, I hardly know who! Not those Corsairs, I don’t think. The Rohirrim? No, they’re on our side…”

Emilia sighed and wandered away. An Old Maid. No doubt she has no-one to talk to at home so decides to bore to tears anyone she meets!

From a vantage point in a corner of the long room Emilia gazed around. There really were very few men. With satisfaction she noticed Beren. Well, there’s little fear of him going to fight anyone, she thought with contempt, little worm! Nevertheless he is extremely good looking. He makes the City Guard look-
Emilia broke off her thought, annoyance at the man’s attitude resurfacing.

Determinedly she began to walk towards Beren. He was talking with Lorna. Simply because she has fair hair she thinks every man should fall at her feet! Empty headed little-
“Lorna!” Emilia said, false smile spreading over her features. “And Beren!”
”Emilia” Lorna returned, smile stretched even wider.
“I am so parched. Do either of you know where I can get a drink?”
“I will get you one of course Emilia” Beren answered immediately.
Men! So easy to understand and control! It’s sweet really. Except that- Emilia cut herself off again. Not that odious man.


As Beren walked away both women dropped their smiles.
“Emilia I was talking to him first. When you get your drink-“
“But Lorna, I simply had to come and tell you about your hair.”
”My hair?” Lorna looked at Emilia distrustfully. Emilia was aware that somehow she had gained a reputation among the women for being manipulating. It was unfortunate, really- it made everything so much harder.

“Well yes. The interesting effect you have at the back. It’s very bold. I only hope everyone else likes it as much as I”
Lorna put a hand up to feel her hair. Emilia bit back a smile. Nearly as easy as dear Beren!


“I think it’s commendable,” she continued “Court fashions haven’t changed in so long. Whose idea was i
t? The tangled look I mean?”
“T-tangled?” Lorna began, distrust still flickering in her eyes. “It’s not-“
Time for the kill! “Yes, tangled. Letty was saying it looked like a bird’s nest. I stood up for you of course. I think it’s a triumph”

Both women stared towards Letty. Emilia had noticed her looking, a few moments ago. Now, of course, she quickly ducked her head. Looking back to Lorna, Emilia saw horror was blooming on her face.
“E-Excuse me” she said, walking quickly away, hands fluttering up repeatedly to touch her hair. Emilia smiled gently as she watched her leave the room, then waved at Beren, who nodded, rasing his two filled hands.

Indeed people are so easy to control, Emilia thought with satisfaction. That was a most enjoyable interlude. Now, I think, a dance? Beren dances as badly as he would fight- were he ever to try. Reniedil on the other hand…

[ May 30, 2003: Message edited by: Lyra Greenleaf ]

[ May 31, 2003: Message edited by: Lyra Greenleaf ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Lyra,

Still needs a bit of editing, but looking very good. Your character sounds like a real person with foibles and strong points.

Lyra, would you do a favor for me. Break down your post into more than three paragraphs. I have trouble reading such large blocks of print.

Cami readjusts her spectacles and strains her eyes.....

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

Everyone:

I have one suggestion. In order to keep things clear for the other Shirelings who'll join the game later (and for the Mods who are sometimes notoriously dense!), could you stick in a little sentence somewhere in the profile stating which group the character belongs to: A. Finduillas and her immediate circle. B. Women of Ecthelion's court C. What shall we call these nasties?

The character list is arranged in these three groups so it might be helpful if the profiles gave an indication of that as well.

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

Hey, you are all doing a great job here!

[maikafanawen]

Heyo

I don't have a clue on what you meant by this, Manardariel: Could you clarify please?

Maika- Judging what we said about the mother already being the spy, at least one geberation.

It would be helpful if you did a first post before us because I'm v confused. V V V Confused. Thanks.

-Maikafanawen

[Manardariel]

Ok. About timeframes, and all that:

Group A has been in Minas Tirith since: the begin of the game.

Group B has been in Minas Tirith since: all their lives, or at least a year if they´re there to be educated.

Group C has been in Minas Tirith since: at least one generation of people, becuase ECL´s mom was a corsair spy before ECL.

Hope that cleared some confusion, Maika and Durelin! smilies/smile.gif

About First posts:
Leave them off for now. I´ll give you the first game post tomorrow (I´d do it now, but I just came home from the movies and all I can think of are Neo and Trinity smilies/wink.gif), untill then just drop it, kay?

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Manardariel- my bio will be up sometime tonight, probably late. I'll pm it to you.

Sophia

[Manardariel]

First Post (First Draft)
Ok everyone, here´s a draft for the first post. You can come in whenever you want to, but I´d like you to have all B and C people meeting Finduilas Face-to-Face, or at least being at the greeting event. okaay?

Note: Tessa is my main character. You´ll see the Bio soom

Tessa woke up. Pushing her thick, brown curls out of her face, she streched around cat-like, squinting around the unfamiliar room. It took her a moment to realize she was in Minas Tirith, not in her room at home in Dol Amroth. Tessa tiptoed out of bed, careful not to awake her peacefully sleeping sister. The girl peered out of the window, trying to get used to the unfamiliar view unfolding under her eyes. As far as Tessa´s eyes could reach, she saw houses, streets, carts and so many people! The sun had barely risen, and they were already crowding thre city, bustling and babbeling; giving her an idea what she had to expect from the next few years. Not that bad, no. In fact, Tessa liked it. It reminded her of the big spring-market back in Dol Amroth, a big attraction in that lazy, beautiful sea town. Tessa crept back into bed, but she couldn´t go to sleep. Instead, she studied Finduilas. Her sister looked stunningly beautiful, even now that she was asleep. Tessa snuggled in her arms. “Tessa.... lemme sleep...” the woman grumbled. The girl smiled and gently tickled her stomach. “Tessa! Stop it!” She pulled her hand away. Grinning, she gave her sister a hug and wispered “Rise and shine, Lady of Gondor. Today´s your big day!”

My big day, Finduilas thought. Half-smiling, half-frowning, she recalled all the “big days” she´d had in the last few months- the day father had announced her wedding to Denethor, the steward to-be. The day she´d left Dol Amroth. And today, when she´d first meet her husband and all the court of Minas Tirith would be her big day. Like her wedding, like the birth of her first son would be “big days”. Like every day she lived and breathed could be a big day. Finduilas pulled on the richly embroided, white gown she´s be wearing today. With Tessa´s help, she put up her hair into an elaborate bun, and slipped on two beautiful, fish-formed earrings. Adjusting her shawl –it was a bit cool- she looked at her sister. Little Tessa seemed lost in adoration. “I think I´m ready,” Finduilas said quitely. Her eyes filled with tears at the sight of that girl worshipping her like she was some kind of goddess. “Oh Finduilas, you´re so gorgeous!” Tessa cried, hugging her sister. “You´ll be the most beautiful Lady ever”

Nervously, Finduilas tapped her foot. She was to meet the important figueres of the court first, the the Steward and then, at last, Denethor, her future husband. Right now, she was greeting every lady, girl and mother of Gondor, or so it seemed. She smiled, looked elegant and tried hard to remember name after name after name after.... from time to time she caught Tessa´s look.

“How do I look?”

“Brilliant.” Tessa mouthed. With a mock look, she added “You Lady you!”

[piosenniel]

Manardariel - once you receive everyone's (the players other than the Owners, that is) Bio and First post - please put them in the order you want the First Posts placed on the game, then PM them to me.

This is ONLY for the dedicated characters who do not belong to the owners.

The owners Bios and First posts need to be on the Game Proposal sheet itself, with a simple list of dedicated characters and who will play them.

Thanks! Pio

[Nurumaiel]

Manardariel,

In my first post Adrama is present, but she cannot bring herself to greet the woman who is to marry Denethor. Is that all right?

I've finished both my first post and bio, and my bio will be sent later today or sometime tomorrow, but I'm still waiting for Alak to read through the post to make sure it doesn't contradict what she has wrote or was planning, since her mother is in the scene.

[Lyra Greenleaf]

I made my post into little paragraphs, and added italics. (It's so annoying the way they disappear when you copy and paste out of word!). If there's any other editing that needs to be done, please give me a hint! Oh, and should I include someething actually to do with Finduilas in my post?

Oh, and Emilia is Group B.

Uh oh. I just realised Emilia is the name of Niluial's daughter in Reclaiming the City! If I only used it because of that I promise it's unintentional! Subconscious, I guess. I was actually thinking of Emilia Fox though I don't know why. I'm gonig to PM her and ask if I can use it, otherwise it'll be changing.

[ May 31, 2003: Message edited by: Lyra Greenleaf ]

[Durelin]

Wait...so Group C has been in Minas Tirith for a long time? So...of course!! I just got a bright idea, which might be brighter than my original one (which bombed out, of course) So, since Group C has been in Minas Tirith for a while, Group B will know them. So, it will be easy for members of Group C to spread rumors about Group A around, and Group B will believe them. Right? So I can have my cook over hear about what Group C says about Group A, then have my head cook rush off to tell everyone. Could Group C say that they find Group A's claims to be from Dol Amroth faulty since they've never seen them and they would have and etc, etc. And would they say that perhaps the 'poor' Finduilas has been duped by some spies or such since they wouldn't want to try and pin a bad name on a woman of that status and power, perhaps? Hmmmmmm.....?

[Manardariel]

Durelin...lemme think. You´re basically saying Group C would use what is Group A´s evidence against Group C against Group A???? smilies/rolleyes.gif Now that is confusing.... I think we said somewhere earlier that Group C (especially ECL) is being really snobbish towards Group B, so they don´t really like them. Is that OK?

Lyra- nice character! Are you going to chage that name or what? About you´re fist post:
That´s fine, there´s no need to comment Finuilas, Emilia obviouly has other things on her mind... smilies/wink.gif

alak- nice character! We´ll have fun with her!

Nuru- As long as Adrama ís at the event, that´s fine! smilies/smile.gif
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Character List- what we have, who is playing, what we need

Group A- Finduilas and her inner circle

Finduilas (Manardariel)
Tessa, her sister (Manardariel)
Old Maid (Annun)
We need about three more players here!

Group B- Ladies of the Court, wives, daughters and young nobles sent for education

Head Cook (Durelin)
Emilia (Lyra)
Pelien (alak)
Adrama, her daughter(Nuru)
Elena(*Varda*)
Síriel and Tíriel, Denethor´s sisters (Sophia)
This onw is completly full! Sorry!

Group C
ECL (Maika)
Double Agent (Carlas)
We need about three more characters here!

I still need Bios from:
Annun
Maika
Carlas
Nuru
Durelin

I still need posts from:
Sophia
Annun
Maika
Carlas
Nuru
Durelin

Please submit these ASAP! I´s like to submit the worksheet by tomorrow! smilies/smile.gif

[ June 01, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[maikafanawen]

Wait, now ECL--her name's Dryea, so far--is snobbish towards Group B? Hmm, wouldn't she and her posse tried to gain their friendship if they want to hold a high place in Minas Tirith society? We need to figure out how each character is going to react to each group.

I think that Group A should strive to be friends with both B and C because they are new and don't hold any suspicions until they find out from where Group C is supposed to be from then they become suspicious. Then Dryea sort of clues in that Group A is suspicious of her group and decides to get Group A out of Minas Tirith so her plans aren't spoilt.

As far as Group B goes, I would think that Group B would sort of take Group C's side at first until, like Durelin suggested, the Cook overhears--what. What does the Cook overhear that makes her begin to suspect Group C? There really isn't any proof against Group C except for that Group A doesn't recognize them.

I'm going to submit by Bio and First post later today.

Never at any point in my posts will I have Dryea being openly mean or 'evil' to the other players. She will be thinking evil thoughts, and doing evil deeds very discretely. Only towards the end of the game will she start getting nasty. If the other players suspect her too early in the game, it won't work out. Does everyone sort of see where I'm coming from? Does anyone disagree?

-Maikafanawen

PS Carlas I'll also PM you my ideas for my character and you PM me yours so we can blend our two characters. Sound good?

[ June 01, 2003: Message edited by: maikafanawen ]

[Manardariel]

Maika- About ECl, no Dryea not being openly evil: that was exactly what I´d planned. And about E- Dryea being snobbish or not: in your hands. She is now your character and in yur responsibility smilies/tongue.gif smilies/smile.gif

[excheeto]

excheeto

Check your PM's please.

~~ Piosenniel, Shire Moderator

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

[Manardariel]

As far as Group B goes, I would think that Group B would sort of take Group C's side at first until, like Durelin suggested, the Cook overhears--what. What does the Cook overhear that makes her begin to suspect Group C? There really isn't any proof against Group C except for that Group A doesn't recognize them. What about one of the maids saying something like "Lady [Insert name of mother here] likes her fish real salty, like they make them on the ships..." Yeah, that would be a stupid maid. Bad Idea. I´ll think of something... Hmm, wouldn't she and her posse tried to gain their friendship if they want to hold a high place in Minas Tirith society? Ok, I get your point. Maybe they´d seek friendship with the Ladies, especially the more radical ones...but I´d say they´re quite snobbish around the rest. Does that make sense?

[piosenniel]

Posting this for my own clarification:

Owners - 3

Manardariel – Finduilas, Tessa
Nurumaiel - Adrama
Sophia – Síriel, Tíriel

Players with Dedicated Characters - 7

Lyra Greenleaf - Emilia
Durelin – Head Cook – Vernathitia(called 'Vern')
*Varda* - Elena
Alaklondewen – Pelien
Maikafanawen – Dryea
Carlas – Double Agent - NEED NAME HERE

__________________________________________________ ________________________________________

Grouped according to classifications:

Group A- Finduilas and her inner circle from Dol Amroth

Manardariel – Finduilas (bride to be of Denethor), Tessa (her sister)

Group B- Ladies of the Court of Minas Tirith, wives, daughters and young nobles sent for education

Durelin – Vernathitia('Vern')(Head Cook)
Lyra Greenleaf – Emilia
Alaklondewen – Pelien
Nurumaiel – Adrama (Pelien’s daughter)
*Varda* – Elena
Sophia – Síriel, Tíriel (Denethor’s sisters)

Group C – The evil contingent

Maikafanawen – Dryea
Carlas – NEED NAME HERE(Double Agent)

__________________________________________________ ________________________________________

Carlas - please post your character's names for me.

[ June 04, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Durelin]

Here's the bio! I need to get you a first post, but...that's kinda under construction! smilies/biggrin.gif

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

Name: Vernathitia (called 'Vern')
Age: 32
Race: Man of Minas Tirith
Gender: Female

Weapons: None, except for a knife she carries in a pocket sewn on the inside of her dress. For self defense, if need be. Can't be too careful.

Appearance: Vernathitia is fairly short, standing at only five feet, four inches, but the rest of her makes up for it. She is not fat, but she could be called 'plump'. She has shoulders and arms that might belong on a blacksmith, making one think she might just blacken your eye. She is amazingly speedy for her size, and Vern can run around her kitchens to catch someone adding too much salt at lightening speed.

Personality: Vern is a very stubborn woman, demanding and full of energy, always bustling about ready to give orders. She is a smart woman, though not the quickest thinker, and she can pull apart any bit of gossip if she has enough time to mull over it. She has learned that this strategy works the best, and that there is no sense in running head long into a ditch. You must take your steps nice and slow, but steady. Vernathitia is really a kind and caring woman, even with her intimidating disciplinarian self. She has a particular soft spot for young boys and their foolishness, because of her brother who died at a young age. She is always ready to laugh, though her humor is a bit dry. Her weaknesses are many, like all human beings. For one, she is not a forgiving person, in many cases. She holds a strong grudge, and one that people should avoid. She also sees men as stubborn mules, (though she is equally stubborn, if not more so than many men) but she knows she cannot live without them. Her strong will can also be a weakness, since it can blind her from many things. She hates to be wrong, and would never suspect that someone contradicting her could be right. Vern is also quite forgetful, so those grudges can be misplaced. But, so can other tidbits of information, so, even though she has an ear for gossip, she usually jots down anything she wishes to remember.

History: Vernathitia was born in the port city of Harlond, and is well versed in the ways of sailors, including the wide variety of curses. She was the eldest of six children, one of which, her younger brother, Tarik, died of a fever at only 14 years old. Her mother, Tyri, had always been best at cooking, though she taught her four daughters all the proper knowledge of ladies. Vern was the only one to excel in her mother's favorite, and actually came to cook far better than her mother ever had. Tyri was ecstastic, and sent her off to the kitchens of Minas Tirith at age 19. She has served in the kitchens for 13 years, making her way up the 'food chain' (heh, heh, corny, I know) to Head Cook in 4 years. Because of this, Vern has been accustomed to giving orders. Over the years she had also risen to become an 'eyes and ears' of some of the ladies at court. Rumor and gossip flourish in the kitchens, and servants are always likely to pick up bits of conversation, if they are deployed in the right place, at the right time, and quietly!

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

About the first post situation: Perhaps, even though Group C is snobby, Group B doesn't know Group A, so they go along with a rumor spread by group C. Perhaps the evil lady could tell something to a servant, and Vern overhears that servant telling another servant. Or, that servant could overhear it from the Lady (who wants the servant to overhear it) and then Vern overhears him talking about it to another servant. Perhaps the evil lady could say "Watch out for those stinky Group A people, they claim to be from Dol Amroth, but I've never seen them...and I should have." Or something.

Basically, my Head Cook is a simple person, so she'd basically say "What a Lady says, goes" you know? And Group B at least knows that nothing has gone wrong in Minas Tirith since Group C came, and maybe now stuff is happening, caused by group C, who waited until Group A came, so Group A would get blamed? Group B doesn't really have to like Group C to think that what they are saying about Group A might be true. Also, Group B could be all excited that something is happening and they get to spy and such, that they make mistakes, jump to conclusions, perhaps?

Hmmmmmm....

[Manardariel]

That´s cool, Durelin! I understand your point now... smilies/wink.gif so ok, that could work! smilies/smile.gif

Carlas and Annun, I NEED your bios and posts!! This is URGENT!

[Manardariel]

New Draft (final?) for Shire Worksheet Please feedback! smilies/smile.gif

****Post One: Introduction, about planning thread etc****

****Post Two: Worksheet****

Title:[B] Corsairs and Corsets!

Basic Storyline:Finduilas of Dol Amroth and a group of her ladies have just arrived in Minas Tirith, where Finduilas is about to marry Denethor. There, they are greeted with some repudiation by the local ladies, and with ador by a group of three women and their husbands/father. These people call themselves "Friends from Dol Amroth". The ladies are suspcious, as they don´t know said Friends, and start investigating. It turns out the "Friends" are really spies of the corsairs, and the it´s the ladies job to stop them.


The purpose of the story is to: uncovering the spies, and celebrating Finduilas´ Wedding

This means we will know the story is over at: The Wedding!

Starting Location: Citadel of Minas Tirith

Likely destination: Citadel of Minas Tirith

Timeframes:

This game takes place in the
Third Age at around year 2976

The storyline itself or plot covers about six weeks.

This game requires a time commitment of 10 weeks from me, the game owner and from the major players.

Characters: – be specific as to type (eg., Lothlorien Elves, not just Elves, if that’s what you need; or any other characters types from specific regions) and please indicate the number of each type you will need.

Main character types are:

Please Note: Main Chracters are FEMALE ONLY!

FINDUILAS GROUP (you can play)
Ladies
Maids
an Old Maid (please PM me if you´re interested about this one!)
WE WILL NEED ABOUT 4 PLAYERS HERE!

EVIL GROUP (spies and their servants)
maids
the major spies´ mother
´WE WILL NEED ABOUT 3 PLAYERS HERE

Secondary character types likely are:
Husbands
Like the main, only they appear less

Character types which would not belong: hobbits, elves, ents, dwarves, orcs, shieldmaidens.......

****Post Three****
Group system, and your characters (+ bios)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
How does that sound??

[Manardariel]

Announcement

Annun is not playin anymore, thus the space of the old maid is now free again.

[piosenniel]

Manardariel - remember under characters that you will need specific number of character that you will accept - e.g.: on the following groups - don't just say about 3 or 4 players - tell me how many ladies, how many maids; who is the major spy who needs a mother; whose husbands should these be and how many are you taking on?

FINDUILAS GROUP (you can play)
Ladies
Maids
an Old Maid (please PM me if you´re interested about this one!)
WE WILL NEED ABOUT 4 PLAYERS HERE!

EVIL GROUP (spies and their servants)
maids
the major spies´ mother
´WE WILL NEED ABOUT 3 PLAYERS HERE

Secondary character types likely are:
Husbands
Like the main, only they appear less
__________________________________________________ ________________________________________

Also, since your story is set prior to the 'Lord of the Rings', there is an extra section to the Game Proposal that you must fill out: (I can't remember if it was on the one I sent you, but it is now a requirement) - it's the "Historical Background" section. See below.

SHIRE GAME WORK SHEET

Title: Corsairs and Corsets!

Historical Background (This is necessary only for Games set in a time before The Lord of the Rings. It can be 2 to 3 sentences that give some basic facts about what is going on in that time period. This will help clarify the setting for the prospective players.)

Basic Storyline:

Finduilas of Dol Amroth and a group of her ladies have just arrived in Minas Tirith, where Finduilas is about to marry Denethor. There, they are greeted with some repudiation by the local ladies and with ardor by a group of three women and their husbands/father. These people call themselves "Friends from Dol Amroth". The ladies are suspicious, as they don´t know said Friends, and start investigating. It turns out the "Friends" are really spies of the Corsairs, and it’s the ladies job to stop them.

[ June 04, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Manardariel,

Please check your private messages.

Cami, Shire Mod

[Manardariel]

Have done. Oh and happry 3000th post, Cami! smilies/smile.gif

Thanks for the advice, Pio. Everyone else: is the worksheet ok?

[Manardariel]

Characters

*Varda * - Group B

NAME – Elena

AGE – 18

APPEARANCE – – Elena has dark brown, almost black, hair, which is rather wavy, and normally braided or partially tied back to keep it out of her face. Her eyes are brown, tinted with a little green, and she has pale skin.

PERSONALITY – Elena is friendly, welcoming, and gets to know people easily. However, she is often off in a dream, especially after finishing a particularly absorbing book, and wishes she was there. It is mainly her avid love of reading and writing that gave Elena a very active imagination, and Elena wishes her past was more interesting, like characters out of the stories that she both reads and tries to write. Because of this, she will often invent stories to make her past seem more wild and fascinating, and is a convincing liar. Knowing how to lie well has made her more aware of it when people are not telling her the whole truth – yet if she tries to voice this to others, they will often dismiss it as just another fantasy of Elena’s, and something she found in a book. Despite these flaws, Elena is much liked as people know she will listen to their problems, and give advice.

HISTORY – She comes from a well-off background, but managed to avoid being spoilt, as she has younger twin sisters, and the attention was mostly lavished on them, as the babies of the family. Elena, left to her own devices, read a lot, lost in her own world, but she never had as many books as she would have liked. When not reading, she would go off with her friends, often staying out all night, and being a convincing liar, her parents believed her excuses. At 17, her parents eventually decided Elena was not satisfied with the life she was leading, and needed more, and subsequently sent her off to Minas Tirith, expecting her to receive a proper education there. Elena was in her element – she had freedom from her parents, all the books in Minas Tirith to read, and plenty of people to talk to. In the year she has been there, she managed to get to know a lot of the people around her, and made many friends, although her tendency to lie has not been lost from her – she likes to invent stories to make her past seem more interesting, and passes them off as truth.

*+*+*+*+*+

Varda's post

Elena heard the sound of feet running past the door of the library. Snapping her heavy book shut, she went and looked out the large window, curiously to see what was drawing everyone’s attention, and saw the arrival of Finduilas and her maids.

It seemed the whole of Minas Tirith was excited about the arrival of this strange woman from Dol Amroth, here to be married to Denethor. Those that weren’t so excited were jealous, at least that was the impression Elena had picked up from the gossiping maids around the court, and the frowns worn on the faces of the nobility, hoping to have married off their daughters to the future Steward.

Elena, in truth, felt very little about Finduilas’ arrival. It was just another woman who had looked for Denethor’s attention, hoping for marriage, only this time the woman had actually succeeded. What reason had a girl like Elena to care too deeply about it? Hopefully, it would at least bring some excitement to the court of Minas Tirith, which, if anything, had only become increasingly dull of late. Even the maids had been running out of gossip to tell each other. Surely, there would be a few parties in Finduilas’ honour, and then, Elena felt sure, there was a chance to have some fun.

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Manardariel]

alaklondewen - Group B

NAME: Pelien

AGE: 52

RACE: Man

GENDER: Female

WEAPONS: None

APPEARANCE: Pelien is a tall woman at almost 6 feet. Her long, dark hair is pinned up tightly so that her face appears to be stretched. She has high cheekbones, large brown eyes, a small feminine nose, and prominent eyebrows. Her mouth is full and usually held tightly together in a scowl. She carries herself regally and her presence alone demands attention.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Pelien is a strong woman who is set in her ways. Her overbearing personality aids in her controlling nature toward all those around her, especially her husband and daughter. She is goal oriented and when she sets her mind on a task, the task gets finished.

HISTORY: Pelien's husband, Sador, is a member of the Tower Guard and a highly respected man in the community. Pelien sees her social status as the foundation of everything she and her family do. This reasoning is why is believes her daughter, Adrama, should have been in line to marry Denethor instead of an outsider.

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

Alaklondewen´s post

Pelien looped her right arm through her husband’s as they watched Denethor’s new bride enter the hall. As Finduilas crossed the floor, Pelien roughly squeezed Sador’s bicep. “What do you think?” He whispered. Her answer was a disparaging look accompanied by a raised eyebrow. “She’s nothing special,” she spat calmly.

Turning toward her daughter, Pelien touched the small of her back. “Stand up straight, Adrama,” she said shortly through her teeth. The girl immediately straightened her back and raised her chin. That should be Adrama, Pelien thought as she turned her attention back to Finduilas.

“Perhaps we should go greet her.” Pelien stepped forward and waited for her daughter to fall in line. Sador leaned forward and whispered, “Be nice, dear.” Pelien just grunted. She would not do or say anything that would cause an unpleasant scene. Snapping her head around, she shot a warning at Adrama to step forward, but the girl shook her head. That’s fine…I’ll go myself. Straightening her navy dress, she strode across the room still holding Sador’s arm toward Finduilas.

Several ladies surrounded the young woman, but Pelien paid them no attention and interrupted the talk by holding her hand out to Finduilas. “Welcome to Minas Tirith. I am Pelien and this is my husband, Sador.” Finduilas slowly reached out, took the woman’s hand, and said, “It is a pleasure to meet you, Madame and Sir.” Pelien put on a courtesy smile and looked the girl in the eyes. “I’m sure it is,” she said rather curtly then smiled warmly. “Please, if there is anything at all that you need…” she trailed off purposefully leaving the just ask off. Turning her back on Finduilas, Pelien walked away proudly.

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Manardariel]

Lyra Greenleaf - Group B

NAME: Emilia

AGE: 21

RACE: Human- Gondorian

GENDER: Female

WEAPONS: None

APPEARANCE: Curly brown hair falling below her waist which she takes loving care of. Dark brown eyes which have a wide eyed helpless look around men and a hard glint among women. Rather tight fitting, low cut dresses and lots of jewellery. Freckles- the bane of her life.

HISTORY: Has grown up in the court at Minas Tirith with only a very vague sense of anything outside the city- soldiers are merely to be admired and flirted with. Has a strict mother and a doting father- both of whom are in the countryside visiting her older brother and his new baby. Is now seriously looking for a husband as she does not want to end up an old maid- a type of woman she pities and ridicules. However, she does want to marry for love.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Emilia is clever although she usually only uses it for cunning and thinking of witty, biting remarks. She has few good female friends but admired by most men. Truly loves her father and brother, but has a strained relationship with her mother. Acts empty headed and helpless around men, a policy which other women don’t like but often seems to work in catching male attention. Very manipulative, sees it as a sort of hobby.

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

Lyra Greenleaf´s post

“Oh dear!”
Emilia shook her head just enough to make her hair sway prettily but without tangling it. From the corner of her eye she watched the off duty City Guard. He is looking!Emilia widened her eyes.
“Oh no. What shall I do?”
Once again she looked at the Guard. He was definitely watching her. Quite appraisingly too. Irritation flared. That was very crude of him. With an internal sigh she decided he would never do to marry. Not if he went around looking at all pretty girls like that. Still, he was attractive. Why is he not offering to help? Oaf!
Unhappily she turned to him, deciding to try the direct approach.

“Will you please help me? I’m trying to find the Houses of Healing, and I can’t remember the way.”

Discreetly Emilia batted her eyelashes. It was always best to be discreet, she had never yet been accused of flirting by a man.
Annoyingly the man raised an eyebrow, and gave a slight smile.
“The Houses of Healing? And why would you be going there? You don’t look ill to me”
Insolence! The gall of this man! Emilia was unsure how to reply. She had never been questioned in this way before! Most of the Guards would just be happy to escort her, to talk to her.
“I-I have a message for one of the healers.”
“Very well” the man replied, again with that insolent half smile. Immediately he turned and began to walk briskly, cloak swirling around his legs. Emilia hurried to follow, blood boiling. He was indeed walking briskly, she could hardly keep up.
With a start Emilia realised she was passing her own front door. Her ‘escort’ had not yet looked back to check whether she was following. With a small smile Emilia turned aside and entered her house.
I believe I win, she said to herself.
************
Emilia looked around the gathering in disgust. There were so many women! “Where are all the men?” she asked the old lady sitting to her left.
“Some trouble with, well I own, I hardly know who! Not those Corsairs, I don’t think. The Rohirrim? No, they’re on our side…”
Emilia sighed and wandered away. An Old Maid. No doubt she has no-one to talk to at home so decides to bore to tears anyone she meets! [I]
From a vantage point in a corner of the long room Emilia gazed around. There really were very few men. With satisfaction she noticed Beren. [I]Well, there’s little fear of him going to fight anyone, she thought with contempt, little worm!Nevertheless he is extremely good looking. He makes the City Guard look-
Emilia broke off her thought, annoyance at the man’s attitude resurfacing.
Determinedly she began to walk towards Beren. He was talking with Lorna. Simply because she has fair hair she thinks every man should fall at her feet! Empty headed little-
“Lorna!” Emilia said, false smile spreading over her features. “And Beren!”
”Emilia” Lorna returned, smile stretched even wider.
“I am so parched. Do either of you know where I can get a drink?”
“I will get you one of course Emilia” Beren answered immediately.
Men! So easy to understand and control! It’s sweet really. Except that-[I/] Emilia cut herself off again. Not that odious man.

As Beren walked away both women dropped their smiles.
“Emilia I was talking to him first. When you get your drink-“
“But Lorna, I simply had to come and tell you about your hair.”
”My hair?” Lorna looked at Emilia distrustfully. Emilia was aware that somehow she had gained a reputation among the women for being manipulating. It was unfortunate, really- it made everything so much harder.
“Well yes. The interesting effect you have at the back. It’s very bold. I only hope everyone else likes it as much as I”
Lorna put a hand up to feel her hair. Emilia bit back a smile. [I]Nearly as easy as dear Beren!

“I think it’s commendable,” she continued “Court fashions haven’t changed in so long. Whose idea was it? The tangled look I mean?”
“T-tangled?” Lorna began, distrust still flickering in her eyes. “It’s not-“
Time for the kill! “Yes, tangled. Letty was saying it looked like a bird’s nest. I stood up for you of course. I think it’s a triumph”
Both women stared towards Letty. Emilia had noticed her looking, a few moments ago. Now, of course, she quickly ducked her head. Looking back to Lorna, Emilia saw horror was blooming on her face.
“E-Excuse me” she said, walking quickly away, hands fluttering up repeatedly to touch her hair. Emilia smiled gently as she watched her leave the room, then waved at Beren, who nodded, rasing his two filled hands.
Indeed people are so easy to control, Emilia thought with satisfaction. That was a most enjoyable interlude. Now, I think, a dance? Beren dances as badly as he would fight- were he ever to try. Reniedil on the other hand…

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Manardariel]

Durelin - Group B

Name: Vernathitia (called 'Vern')

Age: 32

Race: Man of Minas Tirith

Gender: Female

Weapons: None, except for a knife she carries in a pocket sewn on the inside of her dress. For self defense, if need be. Can't be too careful.

Appearance: Vernathitia is fairly short, standing at only five feet, four inches, but the rest of her makes up for it. She is not fat, but she could be called 'plump'. She has shoulders and arms that might belong on a blacksmith, making one think she might just blacken your eye. She is amazingly speedy for her size, and Vern can run around her kitchens to catch someone adding too much salt at lightening speed.

Personality: Vern is a very stubborn woman, demanding and full of energy, always bustling about ready to give orders. She is a smart woman, though not the quickest thinker, and she can pull apart any bit of gossip if she has enough time to mull over it. She has learned that this strategy works the best, and that there is no sense in running head long into a ditch. You must take your steps nice and slow, but steady. Vernathitia is really a kind and caring woman, even with her intimidating disciplinarian self. She has a particular soft spot for young boys and their foolishness, because of her brother who died at a young age. She is always ready to laugh, though her humor is a bit dry. Her weaknesses are many, like all human beings. For one, she is not a forgiving person, in many cases. She holds a strong grudge, and one that people should avoid. She also sees men as stubborn mules, (though she is equally stubborn, if not more so than many men) but she knows she cannot live without them. Her strong will can also be a weakness, since it can blind her from many things. She hates to be wrong, and would never suspect that someone contradicting her could be right. Vern is also quite forgetful, so those grudges can be misplaced. But, so can other tidbits of information, so, even though she has an ear for gossip, she usually jots down anything she wishes to remember.

History: Vernathitia was born in the port city of Harlond, and is well versed in the ways of sailors, including the wide variety of curses. She was the eldest of six children, one of which, her younger brother, Tarik, died of a fever at only 14 years old. Her mother, Tyri, had always been best at cooking, though she taught her four daughters all the proper knowledge of ladies. Vern was the only one to excel in her mother's favorite, and actually came to cook far better than her mother ever had. Tyri was ecstastic, and sent her off to the kitchens of Minas Tirith at age 19. She has served in the kitchens for 13 years, making her way up the 'food chain' (heh, heh, corny, I know) to Head Cook in 4 years. Because of this, Vern has been accustomed to giving orders. Over the years she had also risen to become an 'eyes and ears' of some of the ladies at court. Rumor and gossip flourish in the kitchens, and servants are always likely to pick up bits of conversation, if they are deployed in the right place, at the right time, and quietly!

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

Durelin's post
"You're lucky my wooden spoon isn't my favorite pitch fork!" Vernathitia, Head Cook of the Kitchens of Minas Tirith, shouted at the men and women rushing back and forth around her. The kitchens of Minas Tirith were a busy place, especially with guests. Ladies of Dol Amroth, and the Lady Finduilas herself, the woman who was to wed the Steward's son! And the wedding itself was not far away.

"Those red-currant tarts better be in the ovens!" Vernathitia, called Vern by anyone she considered a friend or of higher status, strode over to peer over the shoulder of a young girl with blonde curls at a large pot.

"What are you doing girl!" she screeched in utter astonished anger. "The potatoes should have gone in five minutes ago!"

The girl stared up at the imposing woman with large eyes filled with horror, her knees wobbling. Cowering beneath the gaze she lowered her eyes only to stand there.

"Well what are you waiting for, girl? For the taters to grow legs and leap into the soup?"

As the honey-haired girl jumped to grab the potatoes Vern suddenly gasped. The girl jumped. "The salmon!" she cried. Seeing the girl, Vern turned to her with a reassuring look. "No, not you." The girl relaxed and Vern raced off to the back of the kitchens.

Right next to the strangely curved wall at the back, six large grey fish lay on a polished stone surface. Vern quickly grabbed the fileting knife and attacked one of the fish, pulling out herbs and spices. Then the door behind her opened and two young men came up the stairs from the cellar, carrying large wheels of various cheeses. The two were speaking intently to one another.

"…and you know what the Lady Dryea says," said the taller of the two. He had short dark hair and eyes. "What?" asked the other boy. He was a head shorter and had lighter and longer hair. "She says she's not sure about these ladies who came with the Lady Finduilas, from Dol Amroth," the dark haired one continued, "And she thinks they aren't really from there."

That was all Vern needed. She had never liked the Lady Dryea or any of her retinue, they were peevish and quite nasty in Vern's mind, but they had been in Minas Tirith for quite a while. There was nothing really wrong about them. The woman just wasn't likeable and that was that. Now these ladies…she'd just have to keep an eye on them. And of course she'd notify the Lady Emilia about this, that was her job. It would do her quite a lot of good if --

"Ow!" she cried. She had cut herself neatly down her finger instead of the fish. "I have to pay attention to my work, then I can worry about giving my information to m'Lady," she mumbled to herself.

"What was that you said, Mistress Vernathitia?" asked the light haired boy carrying the cheese. She had completely forgotten about the two. "Oh do shut up!" she yelled. "And give that bloody cheese to Master Domon!"

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[Manardariel]

Maikafanawen

Name: Dryea Morthaniawen

Age: Early 30's

Race: Corsair

Gender: Female

Appearance: Strikingly beautiful with amber-red hair, hypnotizing blue eyes, and a golden complexion. Dryea is fair and usually wins the favor of many who come to look upon her enchanting smile. She is slender and tall standing no less than 5’8”.

Weapons: Her eloquence and transfixing charm. Dryea Morthaniawen is also equipped with a dagger: standard for the women of her race. It is a beautiful antique carefully crafted and very expensive.

Personality/Weaknesses/Strengths: Dryea speaks well with force or sweetness as the occasion demands, winning others to her side with bold speech. She has a special gift of furtiveness and knows well how to hide herself from unwanted eyes. A cagey character she is both wary and clever. Despite her claims, she also has a fine ear for languages and can speak most of them with ease and fluency. At home among her roguish companions she was known for her honey-tongued ability. Sweet-tongued and deceivingly courteous, she speaks with kindness even when angered, winning favour with words. To others she is appears very open and innocent. Her pretty features and sweet words are very misleading and most often gain her the necessary allies. Among her own kind, and those lesser than she, Dryea is very intimidating. Her weaknesses are what will ultimately lead to her downfall. Dryea is very arrogant, and filled with the hatred for the men who have outcast her people—wrongly, so she believes. Her hatred often clouds her perception and leads her to make reckless mistakes. Usually she is able to cover them. She also has an uncanny knowledge for the concoctions of poisons and draughts.

History: Dryea Morthaniawen grew up with her mother and father and younger sister in scattered coastal cities and towns, learning the art of spying and etiquette to gain high positions in all societies. Her mum taught her to debate with great skill, the art of guise, observation, persuasion, and inquiry. The belief that all gondorians are their enemies was branded into her mind at a young age and supported by the fact that her people were driven further and further from their ‘rightful’ lands—which of course were never theirs to begin with. Dryea has devoted her life to claim much, if not all, of Gondor for the corsairs.
Her mother before her was a spy in the citadel of Ecthelion and is well liked by the court. Now she has given over the title to her daughter who is trying to gain the same trust her mother had. Everything goes as planned until Finduilas, the future Lady of Minas Tirith comes from Dol Amroth, the very city Dryea and her sister, friends, and mother claim to be from. The court grows tense and Dryea must find a way to send Finduilas and her posse back home before she is discovered.

*+*+*+*+*+

Maikafanawen's post

Dryea Morthaniawen stood in front of the full-length mahogany mirror in her bedchamber, studying her elegant ensemble. Her amber hair was piled on top of her head in elaborate curls and held in place by decorative pins. Her dress was of crimson velour with a seven-inch wide strip of embroidered flowers on cream velour running down the front. Darts on the left and right fronts of the bodice gave it a shapely look and enhanced her exotic figure. The sleeves were snug and ran gracefully down the entire length of each arm, stopping at a point above each delicate hand.

“Exquisite,” said her mother, coming up behind her, dressed equally as ravishing in dark blue velour. She dismissed the maids with a polite nod and smooth out a slight wrinkle on the sleeve. “What about jewelry?” she asked. Dryea glided over to her vanity and chose a long gold chain from which hung a beautiful medallion. The medallion was inlaid with sapphires and was of a fine ship, with tall masts and billowing sails, representing Dol Amroth. The lady also chose a delicate array of bangles that she slid onto her wrist. Taking another look in the mirror, she was satisfied with the view.

“Splendid.” Then the daughter did something unexpected for a lady. She opened a secret drawer in her vanity and withdrew a dagger of unique make and tucked it into a fold in her dress. Her mother didn’t blink an eye for she too held such a weapon. But these noblewomen of Minas Tirith were not at all as they appeared.

Sent here years ago, the mother was a spy from the corsairs whose stronghold lay at Umbar: a city in Harad. For many years the sea-faring men had been looting merchant ships and living off their plunder. Dryea had been raised knowing only what her mother had taught her. So she had believed that her deeds were noble and for the good of her people. However, now as she grew older, and with age came wisdom, she realized that her actions were nothing short of vengeful. But she didn’t change her ways. She thought only of power. And the day when she would rule Gondor and the corsairs would rule the seas yet again. That thought always brought a wicked smile to her magnificent face.

Soon they were joined by Dryea’s younger sister, Alethea. Together, the three of them walked down their corridor length and down the stairwell to the hall where they were being introduced to Lady Finduilas of Dol Amroth, and future Lady of Minas Tirith. This may or may not impose a threat to Dryea and her mother’s plans. If she turns out to be easily susceptible to her charm, she could prove to be an important ally. If not. . .

“We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it,” her mother had said unsteadily as she nodded greeting to guards as they were permitted to enter the hall. It was beautifully decorated with tapestries that hung from the ceiling and were carefully woven with portraits of past kings and stewards of Gondor. Dryea walked down the length of carpet, following the other ladies of the court, until she stopped in front of Finduilas. She was just as, if not more, stunning in appearance than Dryea. The lady looked very confident, although, thought Dryea thinking back to the first time she had come to the citadel, she must be very nervous. She bowed her head slightly in due respect and gave her a reassuring motherly smile and a wink. Finduilas seemed to relax a bit at Dryea’s friendliness and continued greeting the court.

Dryea Morthaniawen then took her place beside her friends of Minas Tirith and watched the procession closely, taking in all the new faces and their unique characteristics whether it be fan-waving, eye-batting, or a slight hop to their walk. Dryea knew almost everything to be known about each member of the court. Soon, she would also know about this Finduilas of Dol Amroth!

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: Manardariel ]

[ June 11, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Manardariel]

Arien

Name: Alethea Morthaniawen

Age: 28

Race: Corsair

Gender: Female

Appearance: Alethea has bronze skin and brown eyes speckled with green. Her hair is amber, like her sisters, but is darker. It flows down to her waist and has a slight wave to it. Her height is 5ft 7 and she is of medium build. And although she is beautiful, she is not as so when compared to her sister, Dryea.

Weapons: She has no real weapons apart from a small knife, with a mahogany handle to protect herself. Her best weapon is her head and she can see through peoples lies quite well.

Personality/Weaknesses/Strengths: Alethea has a quiet personality and rarely shows any of it. She mostly follows the order of her mother and sister and seldom gets to speak her mind in front of them. Still despite the way that they seem to control her she loves them dearly and believes what they are fighting for must be worth it as they crave it with a passion. Around others she is confident and enjoys to talk to those she does not know, she makes friends effortlessly, therefore she can get valuble information. She has a similar trait as her sister, being innocent. Or rather acting it. Her mind is dangerous and she can see through peoples lies with ease. Her weakness according to her mother and sister is her conscience, she always thinks about how her actions will hurt other even if they are the enemy. But her main weakness is her sharp tongue and rudeness to others that has got her into trouble.

History: She has lived in many coastal towns and villages, and following her sister gained high places in many societies. Her mother taught her numerous skills that she would use later in life to help herself and others. As a young child she was taught to hate the Gondarians, who had taken their land from them. And so with her sister she fights to claim Gondor as the Corsairs- as it rightfully should be. Her mother was a spy in Ecthelion’s court before her sister, and now that Dryea has ‘taken over’, Alethea mainly aids her. She is well liked amoung the court by the nobles and servants alike and has several friends there.

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Arien´s post

Alethea lay on her four poster bed. It was covered in a beige spread with several soft cushions sprawled over it. Muslin hung down from the post and were eloquently tied back with golden ribbons. Her dress, which was now no doubt getting creased, was a rich gold. The sleeves covered her bronzed arms and stopped , tied with a weaving lace on the inner wrists. Her corset was tied tightly, with a golden ribbon weaved in at the back. Her front was decorated with a simple starburst of Citrine jewels, backed with the same golden colour, in silk. The bottom part was simple and purely flowed to the floor. Her hair hung loosely in attractive and refined ringlets. Upon her feet she wore simple golden slippers.

Her mother was with her sister. There was no change there. She always would help her get ready as she was the ‘eldest’. Alethea doubted this, it was probably favouritism. Everyone seemed to like Dryea more, but this didn’t really bother her that much. She liked the friends she had.

Alethea got up slowly and peered into the mirror. Resting on her tanned face her eyelashes were thick and dark and her eyes had a faint golden shimmer swept over them. And on her lip elusively hung a brush of intense red. She smiled, her small perfect pearl teeth shone. So today she would be meeting Findulas. The one person, she thought, that could ruin all their planning. Her sister and mother didn’t seem to be bothered about the new oncoming presence but she certainly was. What if she told that they were not from Dol Amroth? But then again her and her maids could be used to their advantage. Maybe it was time to put some of their skills into practice once more. Her trail of thought was suddenly lost by knock on the door. A maid entered.
“Miss, your mother and sister are waiting,” she said timidly.

“Thank you,” Alethea smiled. She quickly sprayed her self with a fragrance of lavender, checked that she had her knife- which was kept beneath the skirt and briskly walked out of her room, locking the door behind her and slipping the key into a purse that hung from her side. She met her mother and sister on the landing, who both looked equally stunning.

“Shall we go then?” she smiled and they proceeded to walk down to the hall. Down there was array of beautiful women and handsome men. Alethea sat beside her Minas Tirith friends and watched as Findulas and her maids entered the court. For better or for worse she whispered to herself.

[ June 10, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[piosenniel]

Ah! Everyone's first posts are in!!

The discussion thread for the Game will go up on Monday, 06/16. smilies/smile.gif

[Child of the 7th Age]

I just wanted to thank everyone for the fine job you did in planning. If your game is even half as good as this planning thread, you should have a great time!

Cami

[Tinuviel of Denton]

Do you still need characters for this one? It looks very interesting.

[Sophia the Thunder Mistress]

Tinuviel, there are going to be some spaces available. The discussion thread is goin up in a while and you can submit a character there when it does. smilies/smile.gif

Sophia

[piosenniel]

Tinuviel & all others interested:

The Discussion Thread for this RPG, Corsets and Corsairs, will be open to take on characters on Monday, 06/16.

I'll probably put it on the board on Sunday, but leave it a closed topic, so that everyone can have a good chance to pick a character, write a Character Bio, and craft a good first post.

[Estelyn Telcontar]

I'm still catching up on this interesting thread (yes, I do practice what I preach and read all posts before taking part in a discussion! smilies/wink.gif ) and would be very interested in playing a role in this fascinating story. I haven't played in a Shire game yet, but my references are:

Rohan forum -
Rohan RPG (the original one) (Taradan and Andros)
Betrayal of Trust (a brief cameo as Annawyn)

and on the Gondor forum:
The Saving of the Seventh Star (character - Estelyn Telcontar)
and founder/owner of the infamous Revenge of the Entish Bow (character - Merisuwyniel)

I have a couple of character ideas, but it depends on what you need, of course. Please let me know if there's a space for me. Thanks!

[piosenniel]

Esty - Please check your PM's

Thanks! ~*~ Pio

[piosenniel]

THIS PLANNING THREAD IS NOW CLOSED

The Discussion Thread for the RPG Corsairs and Corsets is now under construction.

It will open on Monday, 06/16, 0730, Pacific Daylight Time.

Please take time to read it carefully and design a character as specified under "Characters Needed", then work up a First Post to go with it and submit them both to the Discussion Thread when it opens.

It should be a good game!

~~ Piosenniel, Shire Moderator