Castle Maladil - Discussion thread [Archive] - Page 2 - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Gandalf_theGrey

02-22-2003, 11:16 AM

Mithadan:

Congratulations ... Nardol chose the best action he could have possibly chosen by firing on the Orcs! Nardol has gained great respect from Maladil, who has outdone his own men-at-arms, since Cirgon's bottle-throwing wasn't all that effective, and since Tiroedrath, Halblung, and Guilin ran out of arrows so long ago that it's been many long lifetimes of man.

Varda:

Maladil has also grown to respect Poppy Took, though he's too proud to show it. * bows *

Child of the 7th Age:

Yes, I'll be happy to do a better job of remarking on the time of day or night in my posts so that the influence on Andreth can be better gauged. Right now, it's still just shortly after midnight ... and by now, Andreth's ghostly form has become more stable ... she's currently at the peak of her abilities when it comes to clearly seeing, speaking with, and hearing the original castle ghosts. If Andreth is currently close to Whinney, for example, then she clearly sees and hears Daerohil the stable lad, and he will similarly notice Andreth as soon as he glances in her direction, or hears or speak, or something. Meanwhile, Andreth will have quite a bit of trouble communicating on a verbal level with Aislan and especially Alearindu just now.

Vanima Edhel:

Given that Gandalf has been making himself the target of Maladil's wrath for the express purpose of distracting the attention of the ghosts away from Menelduliniel, Estelarion ... your characters strongly have the idea that finding the parchment which is the deed to Laurëondo and bearing it safely out of the castle is of the most vital importance! Since your characters are Elves, I assume they can read the necessary Elvish to recognize the deed.

Now that Poppy, Menelduliniel, and Estelarion are assembled in the Great Hall, you see two staircases going up ... one staircase is in the northwest corner of the Hall, the other staircase is in the southwest corner. Also, there are two doorways, one to the north and one to the south ... each opens into a hallway, and no worries, there are no locked doors or even wooden doors ... just an opening that your characters can easily go through. Near the southwest staircase is a closed and locked door of maple-wood.

Which way do your characters want to go?

~~ Gandalf the Grey

TheLadyAerowen

02-22-2003, 01:25 PM

Alright guys, I'm back up and running for good. It was a little later than I expected...but good things come to those who wait. I hope to get a post up with Aylwen soon, so expect Alearindu to be a bit more active now smilies/wink.gif

~The Lady Aerowen

[ February 22, 2003: Message edited by: TheLadyAerowen ]

VanimaEdhel

02-22-2003, 03:44 PM

Near the southwest staircase is a closed and locked door of maple-wood.

I was talking to Varda in the Chatroom about which way we should go, and we both decided that this sounded most interesting. Would looking for a key somewhere be an option?

Gandalf_theGrey

02-22-2003, 03:53 PM

The Lady Aerowen:

Good to have you back ... welcome! smilies/smile.gif

Vanima Edhel:

Good to see you teaming up and collaborating with Varda smilies/smile.gif ... the three of you find a key in a nook under the third stair of the staircase closest to the locked maple door. You turn the key and all enter the room with no problem. Fortunately, you set off no booby traps. You discover yourselves in the Private Dining Room pictured a few posts above in my post to Child of the 7th Age ...

I'll repost the options you have from the Private Dining Room:

The Private Dining Room is the very room in which Adela died! To this day, the chair in which she sat remains pulled back at an awkward diagonal angle, and there is a smashed wine-glass adorning the stained carpet. There is a locked maple-wood door in the northwest corner of the Private Dining Room. In the middle of the Private Dining Room along the eastern wall is a similar locked door.

NOTE: The door in the eastern wall is the one you've just come through, so your next stop is through the maple locked door in the north-west corner of the room. I need to log off the computer right now, but shall return later this evening to provide more description. Meanwhile, please feel welcome to explore the Private Dining Room if you choose.

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[ February 22, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

Gandalf_theGrey

02-22-2003, 04:33 PM

... Then again, my evening is starting to fill up ... better post now while I have a few spare minutes!

Vanima Edhel and Varda:

The key that you found also opens the north-west maple door. You safely enter to find yourselves in a Private Sitting Room that looks much like the one below, main difference being there's no fire blazing in the fireplace, nor lit candles in the chandelier.

http://www.gtunlimited.com/ccdrawsm.jpg

Along with what you see in the picture, there is a small mahogany table with legs carven as of winding vine tendrils encircling slender tree stems. An unadorned white porcelain vase sits atop the table. It still contains, alive and freshly blooming, the last flowers Adela had ever seen. Lilacs of kingly purple, sprightly magenta, purest white. Their aroma shines out ten times stronger than what mere nature had given them.

[ February 22, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

VanimaEdhel

02-22-2003, 04:55 PM

Regarding: the end of the post
The cabinet's probably nothing, but you never know. A little tension never hurt anyone anyway. And where do you get those pictures?

Gandalf_theGrey

02-23-2003, 04:13 PM

Vanima Edhel:

In the Private Dining Room, Poppy Took sees (but is too short to reach on her own) the following items on the ledge of the fireplace mantel:

Art objects made of pure solid gold: partridge, thrush, owl, and pheasant

A battered tin watch that once kept time according to Shire reckoning

A small silver apple and a small silver pear

In the Private Sitting Room, the following objects are inside the cabinet:

Sewing Basket made of entwined willow containing sewing needles, shears, thimbles, and other accessories

Candles / Gold Candleholders

Silverware including spoons and knives

Tea Set including dragon teapot and mugs

http://www.mayhemltd.com/stonbrdg/dgrnTpotBlu_small.jpg

Silver platter graven with a horse

Silver goblets

... As for where I get the pictures, it's all in the search engine, my friend. smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

Susan Delgado

02-23-2003, 04:18 PM

Hey everybody, I might not be able to come on for a few days. I'm having phone troubles.

[ February 23, 2003: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

VanimaEdhel

02-23-2003, 05:18 PM

I edit'ed the post to include what they see a tad, Gandalf.

Varda: I made a lot of decisions for this past post. You can make decisions and type up the next.

*Varda*

02-24-2003, 12:32 PM

Vanima: I'll get a post up sometime tonight, but my connection's been acting a bit weird the past few days.

Edit - Ok...going up the north west staircase...what can we see now?

[ February 24, 2003: Message edited by: *Varda* ]

VanimaEdhel

02-24-2003, 06:14 PM

Okay, Varda. If you ever have problems, I can fill in for us.

*Waits for Gandalf...*

TheLadyAerowen

02-24-2003, 09:16 PM

Quick note before I go to bed; the last post of mine (first one on page 10) was by both me and Dreamsong. ^^

~The Lady Aerowen

Gandalf_theGrey

02-25-2003, 12:09 AM

Susan Delgado:

Please feel welcome to post as soon as you are able, we're ready for you now, and welcome back! * bows a cheery greeting * smilies/smile.gif

Varda and Vanima Edhel:

When you reach the second floor, there is a door to the east of birchwood, unlocked, very close to the top of the staircase. There is also a door across the hall to the west, of finest mahogany wood, firmly locked and bolted shut ... careful not to set off any traps! Which door do you choose to try and enter first?

the Lady Aerowen and Aylwen Dreamsong:

Awesome collaboration going on between the two of you, and the same compliment should be paid to Varda and Vanima Edhel! smilies/smile.gif

PLEASE NOTE:

At this time, I do not want Estelarion, Menelduliniel, and Poppy meeting up with Daerohil, Aislan, and Alearindu! Thanks.

Gandalf the Grey

VanimaEdhel

02-27-2003, 06:30 PM

We chose West Gandalf. I am restraining from posting until I know what will befall us on the other side of that door (or if we even find a key).

Gandalf_theGrey

02-27-2003, 10:20 PM

VanimaEdhel:

You don't find a key to the Western door. To save time, I'll assume that for right now your characters and Poppy take the easier route and swing open the door of birch to the East ... and in about two minutes I'll send you the description of that room in a PM. Perhaps you can still get through the Western door somehow without a key ... be careful, if you try! And if you want to try, what sort of action do your characters wish to take to get through the Western door? (Please feel welcome to answer here or in a PM, whatever you prefer.)

Gandalf

VanimaEdhel

03-01-2003, 04:02 PM

We're going for the Eastern door (after quick consultation with Varda). Kenelm, here we come!

TheLadyAerowen

03-05-2003, 06:19 AM

Well guys, that last post was once again from both Aylwen and I. smilies/biggrin.gif And, well, today is my b-day. lol smilies/wink.gif

~The Lady Aerowen

Gandalf_theGrey

03-05-2003, 10:49 PM

Happy Birthday, Lady Aerowen! smilies/smile.gif

http://www.wf.net/~lcrump1/ec3.jpg

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[ March 05, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

Child of the 7th Age

03-05-2003, 11:50 PM

Can Andreth the ghost be heard by Calamiel?
Can Andreth the human be heard by Calimiel?
Andreth wants her book back. She also wants to converse with the girl and tell her who she is. Can she take the book back? Can she talk with her and persuade her to hand back the book?

Andreth

Gandalf_theGrey

03-06-2003, 12:11 AM

Dear Andreth:

Here are your replies --

1) Can Andreth the ghost be heard by Calamiel?

MY REPLY:

Since Calimiel has had plenty of experience being a ghost for an entire age, and on top of that needed to develop an inner sight (along the lines of osanwe kenta) to compensate for being a blind ghost, yes, Andreth the ghost can be heard by Calimiel. Calimiel will of course be more proficient at hearing / sensing / seeing the Castle ghosts with whom she's more familiar, but will still be able to communicate adequately with Andreth.

2) Can Andreth the human be heard by Calimiel?

MY REPLY:

Yes, very much so.

3) Andreth wants her book back. She also wants to converse with the girl and tell her who she is. Can she take the book back? Can she talk with her and persuade her to hand back the book?

MY REPLY:

Calimiel is right now enjoying the feel of the book under her fingers, smilies/smile.gif and it is her book after all ... that's what Calimiel believes to be true, anyways. If Andreth attempts to take the book back, you sense there will be a struggle, though Calimiel is unarmed and looks a bit confused / overwhelmed / disoriented. You're sure Calimiel could be easily overcome, if you were in a more solid, physical form.

Yes, Andreth can certainly hold a conversation with Calimiel to try and convince her to hand over the book.

Keeping in mind, curiosity to see just where Calimiel would want to reshelve the book might prove worthwhile.

All:

Aylwen Dreamsong, Belin Ibaimendi, Child of the 7th Age, Lady Aerowen, Mithadan, Susan Delgado, tangerine, VanimaEdhel, Varda

Awesome posting, keep up the good work! smilies/smile.gif

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[ March 06, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

VanimaEdhel

03-06-2003, 03:53 PM

Thank goodness for more snow. I was about ready to have a nervous breakdown. I can actually post now.

Question: How much can the Butler tell them, Gandalf if they say they are looking for the deed?

And I already wished LadyAerowen edinor meren many times in the Chat, but I'll do it again: Happy Birthday!

Gandalf_theGrey

03-07-2003, 12:14 AM

Hullo VanimaEdhel:

What's this about snow and posting? * blinks dazedly in confusion * smilies/smile.gif

As for your Question:

How much can the Butler tell them, Gandalf if they say they are looking for the deed?

MY REPLY:

If you assure the Butler that finding the deed will set him free from the Castle, he'll be happy to help you, but won't want Maladil to find out ... and in fact will threaten you with harm should you betray him. The Butler hasn't really thought about the deed for an entire age, so he'll do his best to bustle about unobtrusively to check out possible places where it might be. He'll want to look among the papers that he got from Celumëomaryu and stashed away in a hiding place, for one thing. The Butler won't want you to know where this hiding place is, so he'll turn invisible and walk through a wall so you can't follow him while he goes to look for the papers. As for what sort of information those papers actually contain ... I can post more about that this weekend. The papers might be valuable, or then again, they might be junk ... or perhaps contain a clue. Meanwhile, you have enough to write up a post with the information I've given you?

Gandalf the Grey

Gandalf_theGrey

03-07-2003, 05:41 PM

SPECIAL NOTE:

This RPG is desgined to have three correct solutions ... and there are now three small groups actively hunting for the deed. We are now so close to successfully reaching the goal of lifting the curse of Castle Maladil, that the first person from one of these groups that posts to take action and move the plot ahead will earn the honor (for themselves personally and for their group) of being the one(s) to find the deed! smilies/smile.gif

Each group has been presented with a major clue as follows:

For GROUP A -

Aislan, Alearindu, Andreth ... the fact that Calimiel now has Andreth's book is the key to finding the deed.

For GROUP B -

Estelarion, Menelduliniel, Poppy ... the fact that the Butler is going to fetch the papers given to him by Celumëomaryu is the key to finding the deed.

For GROUP C -

Hinura acting as a free agent ... the fact that you've discovered the moon runes on the statue is the key to finding the deed.

The curse of Castle Maladil can be lifted either by using Andreth's book, the Butler's papers, or the moon runes on the statue ... First come first served ... whoever posts now from Group A, B, or C shall lead the company to victory and free the castle ghosts! (SAVE posts don't count.) smilies/smile.gif

Congratulations and thank you to all of us who've come this far (ghosts and non-ghosts alike!) ... * bows *

Looking forward to a happy ending to this story, smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

Child of the 7th Age

03-07-2003, 06:21 PM

Group A checking in here with Andreth. She is watching where Calimiel shelves the book in a special place of honor.

Can Gandalf tell her what she's looking at? I am going to ask my partners to keep an eye on this, as I have to sign off for shabbat!

sharon

Gandalf_theGrey

03-07-2003, 06:28 PM

sharon:

Excellently well done! smilies/smile.gif

Andreth's eyes widen in astonishment as she watches Calimiel shelve the family book of Laurëondo next to an identical book ... an exact replica in every way except that this other book has a dark green cover with gold lettering. If you were to pick up the dark green Laurëondo book, you'd notice that it's survived the long years in good condition, is heavier ... and that it's locked ... there's a keyhole directly on the front cover.

Have a restful shabbat. * bows *

tangerine:

I notice you're online! Hinura can still be very much involved ... after all, where there's one keyhole, there must be ONE KEY. smilies/smile.gif Please post either tonight or tomorrow, if you want an active and highly important role in the end of the story. * bows *

~~ Gandalf the Grey

Child of the 7th Age

03-07-2003, 06:32 PM

Thank you Gandalf.

OK, somebody better find that key! And now I really must go.

sharon

VanimaEdhel

03-07-2003, 07:40 PM

How is that, Gandalf? I can type what she reads when you tell me the gist of what it should say over the weekend...

Gandalf_theGrey

03-07-2003, 08:02 PM

VanimaEdhel:

Superb job! smilies/smile.gif

NOTE: I edited my most recent post to include a mention of your Night Lights song that you sang outside of the Castle.

And I plan to post a reply to your post as soon as I eat something ... I'm way late for dinner, but am having too much fun here!

tangerine:

Another wonderful post complete with song from you! smilies/smile.gif Thanks so much for your post ... Hinura discovering the key adds an awesome layer of rich depth to the story!

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

*Varda*

03-08-2003, 06:36 AM

Hm..seems that I chose an interesting night to be away from the computer...still, I pay for it with aching feet.

I'll post sometime later today, after I've caught up with what's going on.

Child of the 7th Age

03-08-2003, 10:29 AM

Andreth is attempting to buy some time by chatting with Calamiel.

Gandalf -- Feel free to use my character as you need as I will be off the rest of the day.

sharon

Gandalf_theGrey

03-08-2003, 11:12 AM

Lady Aerowen:

Just received your PM ... please meet me for a brief chat if you're available, my friend! smilies/smile.gif

Thanks,

Gandalf the Grey

TheLadyAerowen

03-08-2003, 11:16 AM

Gandalf_theGrey

Okay, I should be there all day, but whether or not I'm paying attention, is a whole different story smilies/wink.gif Just page me (say LadyAerowen) and I should look in, unless I'm away, which will be obvious by my nick smilies/wink.gif I'm there now, so talk to you soon!

~The Lady Aerowen

VanimaEdhel

03-09-2003, 04:17 PM

I think I'll let Varda to our next post, as I have done the past few. Although she voted in each aspect that required a choice, I think she should have a chance to have things more from Poppy's view about now...

*Varda*

03-09-2003, 04:22 PM

Sounds good, but any post will have to wait till tomorrow night. smilies/frown.gif I did intend to post yesterday, but the sudden realisation that I had a 2000 word essay due in tomorrow (as yet I've still only written about 300 words, and will probably be up most of the night) and I have a french exam in the morning put it to the back of my mind. Writer's block didn't aid matters either smilies/rolleyes.gif

Hm. In fact, maybe I'll just post just now (procrastination....)

EDIT: Gandalf, if we go through the northern door in the Great Hall, what will we see?

[ March 09, 2003: Message edited by: *Varda* ]

Gandalf_theGrey

03-10-2003, 12:08 AM

Child of the 7th Age:

Very nice posting! smilies/smile.gif I've had my own personal response to Andreth's actions thought out, but am waiting just a bit for others who want to post, because some have informed me of school responsibilities. Things are indeed in motion behind the scenes, in any case, and you'll soon see the results.

Varda:

Monday night will be soon enough, am looking forward to your post. smilies/smile.gif

To answer your question, through the North door in the Great Hall, you enter an inner corridor running East-West. In this corridor, if you look directly East you will see an opening that goes into a kitchen. Along the Northern wall are three locked, plain-looking steel doors.

Things You May Wish to Keep in Mind:

Is Poppy exploring on her own, or with Estelarion while Menelduliniel reads through the Butler's papers? Or is Poppy now aware of what Menelduliniel has read, about the green book with the hidden deed?

TheLadyAerowen:

I've just sent you a PM ... I hope it's coherent, because I was sorta half asleep when I wrote it, but wanted to get you a quick answer. So if you have any questions, please feel welcome to let me know! smilies/smile.gif

Happy to see progress on our way to lifting the curse of Castle Maladil,

Gandalf the Grey

[ March 10, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

*Varda*

03-11-2003, 05:01 PM

And my connection is finally kind enough to let me on to post smilies/smile.gif

What do we see now we're in the kitchen?

Gandalf_theGrey

03-11-2003, 05:37 PM

Dear Varda,

As you enter the kitchen, you see three skeletons ... one Elvish, the other of the race of Man fallen, another Orcish, where they struggled in battle. An nearby axe to this day bears dried black blood dating from the Second Age. (For the purposes of background information, the Elvish skeleton is that of Tella the Cook, and the other skeleton near the axe is that of Anna.)

Below is a picture of what the kitchen looks like. I've actually been inside this kitchen, for it is part of the French Castle at Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown, New York, which still stands. (They've cleaned the kitchen up a bit since taking the picture, btw, ... I've eaten inside this very kitchen while re-enacting the Siege Battle of 1759.)

http://newdeal.feri.org/images/c29a.jpg

There are no closed doors leading to other rooms from this kitchen ... however, there is another opening. This other opening leads East, back out to the Inner Courtyard and the front of the Castle.

Gandalf the Grey

Gandalf_theGrey

03-12-2003, 07:07 PM

ANNOUNCEMENT:

Last Call for Posts !!!

As all the ingredients are now in place for the curse to be lifted ... that is, the Green Book has been found, the Key has been found, the Note among the Butler's papers has been found ... the Castle Maladil RPG draws successfully to a close.

Please note the following deadlines:

1) Wednesday, March 19th --

Is the last day on which I'll accept new posts dealing with any last-minute action your character wants to take before the curse is lifted.

2) Wednesday, March 26th --

Is the last day on which I'll accept new posts dealing with the aftermath of the lifting of the curse ... how your character responds, what happens to your character, where your character may go from here.

Many thanks to all who've shared this path of adventure and assisted in fulfilling this quest! smilies/smile.gif

* deep bow *

Gandalf the Grey

TheLadyAerowen

03-12-2003, 07:32 PM

*sob* I can't believe we're drawing to our close! It seems like two weeks ago we just started smilies/wink.gif Okay, maybe not -that- short, but you know!

Anyhow, my most recent RPG post was Aylwen and my work once again. smilies/biggrin.gif

~The Lady Aerowen

VanimaEdhel

03-13-2003, 06:33 PM

As Gandalf knows, I will be leaving the 15th and returning on the 22nd. I will taking a much-needed vacation (as any of you that have spoken to me recently can attest to, I'm one step away from a nervous breakdown, what with school, softball, etc.).

I will be back to post my reaction though! And I can try to post once more before I leave. Things are kind of hectic, though, so I don't know how much I can do...I'll try though!

VanimaEdhel

03-14-2003, 05:06 PM

Well, I got one more post in. Do with it what you will! Mithadan: if Gandalf wants it changed in any way, as I will not be here, and as you are an Op, feel free to edit my post if you do desire (I know it's extra work for you, but if anyone wants anything different in my post).

Good luck! I will see you on the 22nd or the 23rd, when I return!

Gandalf_theGrey

03-16-2003, 09:53 PM

AWARDS ANNOUNCEMENT:

I am pleased to announce that awards will be given for the following three categories:

1) MVP - Most Valuable Player

Only (1) one person will be selected to receive the MVP award. This person has contributed to Castle Maladil in a way which has vastly enriched the entire RPG, going far above and beyond the call of duty.

2) Successful Quest Lifter or Entrenched Castle Ghost -

If you were part of the living company, your character was instrumental in lifting the curse after reaching the Castle right up through to the end of the game. If you were a Castle Ghost, you hung around through to the end of the game.

3) Honorable Mention -

You were a writer who participated in the RPG long enough for your character to reach the Castle and enter the Castle grounds, without needing to be carried for more than two weeks. Or, you were a writer playing the part of a ghost who participated in the RPG long enough to greet at least one member of the living company, but did not stay through to the end of the RPG.

LISTED BELOW ARE THE NAMES OF THOSE WHO HAVE EARNED AWARDS, along with the prize(s) they may claim:

1) MVP AWARD - Susan Delgado

Congratulations, Susan! smilies/smile.gif You have earned this award hands-down, for the awesome map of Castle Maladil that you created especially for this RPG! Please select one prize each from the following two prize categories, A and B, for a total of two prizes:

A. Either a 27 x 40 poster for $15.99, or a Barrow Downs t-shirt, and ...

B. Your choice of either a 22 x 35 poster for $8.99, an action figure for $9.99, a Barrow Downs coffee mug, or a Barrow Downs golf cap.

2) Successful Quest Lifter or Entrenched Castle Ghost Award -

Aylwen Dreamsong, Belin, Child of the 7th Age, The Lady Aerowen, Mithadan, tangerine, Vanima Edhel, *Varda*

Please select one prize:

Your choice of either a 22 x 35 poster for $8.99, an action figure for $9.99, a Barrow Downs coffee mug, or a Barrow Downs golf cap.

3) Honorable Mention -

The Fifth, piosenniel

Please select one prize:

Your choice of either a Barrow Downs coffee mug or a Barrow Downs golf cap.

Thank you and congratulations! smilies/smile.gif

As to how this all will work, I will need to contact the Barrow Wight or whoever's in charge of the Barrow Downs store at storekeeper@barrowdowns.com I suppose, to figure out who you'll need to e-mail with a shipping address so that the people at the Barrow Downs store will know where to send your prize. (I will also need to contact them to figure out the best way for me to make payment.)

As for the actual information regarding which prize you're selecting (or two prizes if you're the MVP!) ... please send me a PM to let me know what you wish to choose.

We still have about a week and a half left to go in this RPG, but I wanted to make this announcement before the very end. Remember, Wednesday, March 19 marks the deadline for submitting posts regarding the lifting of the curse of Castle Maladil. And Wednesday, March 26 marks the deadline for submitting posts regarding how your character responds after the curse has been lifted. Thanks again for helping to make Castle Maladil a success! smilies/smile.gif

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

piosenniel

03-17-2003, 04:13 PM

Letter via the wandering feet and good graces of Volondil:

The Tower Hills
At the western edge of the Westmarch

25 Rethe

My Dear Gandalf,

So happy to hear that the quest to Maladil's Castle has turned out in the companions' favor. Bird, Olo and I fared favorably from our unfortunate and frightening encounter with the Mewlips, and the gold we carried away has served us well. Your kind offer of a souvenir cup as a remembrance of the quest will be treasured.

Bird is still wandering about the wide world, but her worries have been eased by a pursefull of gold coins. Volondil's heart is with his duties as a Ranger and he has returned to them, as you can see if you have, indeed, received this letter.

Olo and I have handfasted and heart joined, and have set up our own little place here at the far end of the Shire. He continues to employ his admirable skills as a hostler, and I am enjoying the freedom to pursue my sketching. Occasionally, our feet do get the itch to wander (Yes, I'm afraid that stay at home Hobbit that used to be Olo, now likes to see new sights and meet new friends!)

We won't be journeying too much in the coming months, as we are expecting the birth of our first child and wish to get set up for it. But as soon as the wee one can travel, we may come see you to see how you are faring. And of course, you are always welcome in our home.

We remain your affectionate friends,

Holly and Olo

p.s. Peri sends his greetings. And wonders, I'm sure, what has happened to Midnight. - H

Aylwen Dreamsong

03-17-2003, 09:06 PM

Wow! I can't believe how quickly the game went by! Kind of like summer vacation...

Anyways...My last post was brought to you by the Lady Aerowen and Aylwen Dreamsong (We'll be right back after a commercial break smilies/wink.gif).

Aylwen

TheLadyAerowen

03-18-2003, 06:12 AM

Commercial breaks? Ha! Well, at least they'd be paying us.. smilies/wink.gif Anyways. Our last post leaves a kind of cliffhanger. I've always liked those when a friend or I gets to be the one to finish them...because then you know what happens while others have to wait. smilies/wink.gif As I ramble..okay. Gandalf, extraordinary kindness coming from you! smilies/biggrin.gif Thanks a whole bunch and thanks to your imagination and/or life experiences for making this RPG happen! ^^

~Aerowen

Susan Delgado

03-18-2003, 09:15 PM

Wow, Gandalf, thank you very much. smilies/smile.gif
I've really enjoyed playing with all of you. It's been a wonderful few months.

And here's the map, for anyone interested:
Castle Map (http://fringeworld.homestead.com/files/castlemaladil.jpg)

[ March 18, 2003: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

Child of the 7th Age

03-21-2003, 02:07 AM

Thank you indeed for this game. It has been fun.

sharon

*Varda*

03-21-2003, 04:10 PM

This game has been great fun for the past few months, and thanks to everyone, especially to Gandalf, for having put so much effort in smilies/smile.gif

tangerine

03-21-2003, 06:25 PM

I would like to thank everyone, especially Gandalf, for allowing me to be part of this truly excellent game over the last few months, even though I came here as an unfamiliar face.
I thank you all, and hope to see you soon,
Tangerine (eM)

VanimaEdhel

03-22-2003, 07:47 PM

I would like to quickly thank Everyone, as I hate being repetitive, and it seems that all of you have beaten me to all of my compliments towards our other Games.

I regret that I was away these past few days. I am sorry if my last post was not my best work, but I found it somewhat hard to come back after baking in the sun for a whole week.

I would, however, like to especially thank the two people I worked most closely with on this RPG:

Varda: I would especially like to thank you for being my "travelling partner" of sorts. Menelduliniel and Estelarion greatly enjoyed Poppy's company!

Gandalf: Thank you for understanding and making allowances for my insane schedule (even my school advisor thinks I overextend myself, apparently).

All of you have made this an exceptional game that I loved immensely (I think my school friends will hurt me if I mention it once more)! I look forward to working with you all again!

Gandalf_theGrey

03-30-2003, 08:19 PM

** NEWSFLASH **

Originally, I had intended to end this RPG with a final post at this point in time of the story. However, the more I've been thinking about it, if I post ... a whole bunch of loose ends are going to become immediately and clearly evident.

1) Orcs still surround the Castle. Even if the company were willing to fight their way out of the Castle by night or leave more safely under cover of day, that would leave the Castle completely unguarded, ... easy pickings for Orcs to plunder and set up a fastness of their own before a House of Healing can be established. (I envision perhaps sending Midnight with a message to the Ranger's hideout back near Sarn Ford, so that any Men who might be spared can be sent to help.)

2) Anna's fate still needs to be determined. Susan Delgado, the awesomely talented Castle Mapmaker, has sent me a wonderful idea regarding the fate of her character! It's too good to miss. smilies/smile.gif

3) Treasure. Some of your characters may wish to claim their fair share of gold from the sack Gandalf brought. Your character may choose from their portion of gold, or else take one treasure from the Castle itself (as long as two characters don't take the same treasure, of course!) Or, your character may choose to be a generous soul and donate his or her share of the treasure to help finance the House of Healing.

Therefore, it's been suggested to me that I extend the game for a small bit until this unfinished business be taken care of, and that I open the matter for discussion here on this discussion thread, for your input, and to see how many of you might be interested in continuing. smilies/smile.gif

Conversely, if anyone feels that they would prefer to end their own personal participation in the RPG at this time, I perfectly understand and honor that. Everyone who's made it thus far to this point has contributed so much already, that you've already earned my deep appreciation and gratitude, and I expect no more (especially since I was in fact originally planning to end the game here, myself!) smilies/smile.gif

Please feel welcome to let me know your thoughts, feelings, and suggestions. Am open to either ending the game now, or continuing it further, depending on the amount of interest, and I highly value your input.

To Those of You Kind Enough to Have Thanked Me for the Game:

Be assured that the pleasure is mine, and that you're quite welcome. * low bow * smilies/smile.gif

theLadyAerowen:

Your mention of a cliffhanger goes along with what I've been saying about loose ends. And I'd like to take this opportunity to compliment you and Aylwen Dreamsong on your awesome writing collaboration ... as well as extend the same compliment to the team of VanimaEdhel and Varda! smilies/smile.gif

Belin:

I'm always telling you in private how wonderful your posts have been, now here's some much-deserved public praise for you! Celumëomaryu was a stunningly vivid, powerful character portrayed with incredible depth. smilies/smile.gif

tangerine:

Very glad you've come along with us! smilies/smile.gif Hinura's shown quite a knack for appearing at crucial, decisive moments in the game, and putting her bardic talents to excellent use.

~~ Happily At your Service,

Gandalf the Grey

[ March 30, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

Susan Delgado

03-31-2003, 05:02 PM

Gandalf, et al,

I would certainly be willing to continue the game long enough to tie up loose ends. My idea for Anna is that she stay in the House of Healing and offer her services to whomever needs them.

Waiting for everyone else to speak,
Susan
smilies/smile.gif

TheLadyAerowen

03-31-2003, 06:08 PM

Hear hear, I'm throwing my two cents back in and I'd be more than happy to continue! smilies/wink.gif I already have a few ideas floating in my head, so I'm for continuing.

~The Lady Aerowen

By the way, Gandalf, please check your Private Messages; Thanks!

[ March 31, 2003: Message edited by: TheLadyAerowen ]

*Varda*

04-01-2003, 12:13 PM

I'd be happy to put in another post to tie up loose ends.

smilies/frown.gif The RP's almost finished...I kind of miss having to come online to check new posts and stuff. But I have like 2 exams a week now until June, so no RPing for me. smilies/frown.gif

Varda

Child of the 7th Age

04-01-2003, 12:49 PM

Gandalf,

I'm also willing to tie up loose ends, if that will make a better story. Like Varda, however, this is a heavy time of year, but will try to do my best.

sharon

Aylwen Dreamsong

04-01-2003, 04:44 PM

I'd be happy to continue for a while, to tie up loose ends. It's kind of busy over here too though, but I'd certainly try my best to help out and finish!

Aylwen

tangerine

04-01-2003, 06:46 PM

I will be happy to help tie up loose ends as well.

VanimaEdhel

04-01-2003, 06:46 PM

Well...I can't promise I'll be here that often, as I'm back in school, and I have to get all my paperwork in for my trip to Russia/Finland this summer, along with selecting my courses for next year, practicins piano, practicing and playing softball, and doing my normal courseload. I'll try though!

Yavanna Kementari

04-01-2003, 11:52 PM

Hello I am going to be playing the cameo role of a Silvan Elf named Calenoreien.
I am aquainted with the Rangers at Sarn Ford. I am looking forward to helping your
Company in any way I can. ~Calenoreien

Gandalf_theGrey

04-02-2003, 12:12 AM

Welcome, Yavanna Kementari! smilies/smile.gif

You know what they say about saving the best for last, eh? Thank you so much for agreeing to take on the cameo role as Calenoreien. * bows *

Susan Delgado, TheLadyAerowen, *Varda*, Child of the 7th Age, Aylwen Dreamsong, tangerine, VanimaEdhel:

Thank you all for continuing on. smilies/smile.gif Now that I have a clear reckoning of who still wishes to actively participate, it will be that much easier for me to post with a sense of purpose towards wrapping up the game. Am planning to post Wednesday, April 2nd sometime between after dinner and midnight.

At your Service,

Gandalf the Grey

Mithadan

04-02-2003, 08:31 AM

Nardol also has some issues to wrap up.

Yavanna Kementari

04-02-2003, 11:19 PM

Stopping back to introduce myself. As you know I am Calenoreien, an Elf.
I am 5’7” and a medium-built maiden, not too thin. I have shoulder length light brown hair braided back and very bright green eyes.

I wear a white long-sleeved shirt with a green leather bodice decorated with elvish inscriptions, a pair of brown suede leggings and black leather boots that stop just above the knee. I wear a brown leather belt with three small pouches on the right side. The pouch closest to my stomach contains Athelas, the middle one contains a small carving that I am working on and the last pouch contains a picture of my husband.
My elvish sword in sheath hangs on the left side (because I am right handed). My sword has a black double-handed hilt with a green gem and a small leaf. The blade has an elvish inscription on the side that says (in Sindarin) ‘Meleg carach-en-Edehel na Calen” in case you find it and I am not attached to it. I sport a quiver and carry an Elvish bow in hand or on my shoulder. My father, who received it from his father, who was Maedhros, gave it to me, it is black with a design of silver leaves and vines. I also carry a small elvish blade in my boot.

When I know I am going to fight I wear my mail coat and my breastplate. The mail is made of mithril. The Naugrim made it for my Grandfather. The breastplate is Green steel with a design of a sword in the center.

Though I travel with the Rangers from time to time, my closest and most faithful companion is Celebrama my horse. He is silvery gray with a white mane and tail. He is also the only family I have left. He will let me saddle him but will not allow a bridle. (That’s okay, who wants to talk with their mouthful anyway?)

I am a good-natured elf. I try to be kind and patient to everyone I meet. I am honest, trust worthy and loyal. I am strong willed, will fight for what I believe is right and just and will defend fiercely both in conversation and physically. I will also humbly beg pardon for something that I may have done or said to offend for I am not too proud to say I am sorry.

But I also expect to be apologized to when wronged. I can be confrontational when need be. I try to share wisdom with those who seek folly and try to lighten the hearts of those that carry burdens. I can be a great friend and I am easy to get along with.
I also make a very terrible enemy … best to stay on my good side. I have a fiery passionate spirit when it comes to anger. Once I get angry I have a hard time controlling it. I take my anger out on my enemies though, not my friends. If I encounter a friend while I am angry I will most likely shrug them off for a little bit just to try to contain my anger, but then all is well. ~Calenoreien

p.s, you may call me Calen for short.