Castle Maladil - Discussion thread

[Mithadan]

Do not post until the RPG owner has posted first, please. The RPG thread will be opened soon. The Owner has designated this RPG as "invitation only", but will consider characters submitted here until membership is closed. Membership is NOT first come, first served.

RPG Owner: Gandalf the Grey

--------------

RPG Proposal as accepted:

Title: Castle Maladil

Submitted by: Gandalf the Grey

RPG Type: Invitation Only

Number of Spaces Available:

I’ll say ten. However, I’m easily willing to run the RPG with less than ten people, and might possibly be convinced to accept more, if making an exception will enhance rather than detract from the quality of the game.

Spaces Already Filled:

Five spaces are filled already. (Not counting myself.)

Premise:

Join Gandalf the Grey on a quest to lift a curse from haunted Castle Maladil. Though the road known as the Andrath Greenway be short in distance from Sarn Ford to Tharbad, it's plenty long on adventure, peril, and mystery. Brave living foes along the way to reach your destination where you'll face the dead.

"Castle Maladil" is a continuation of "On Patrol." The format of "On Patrol" was designed to combine interactive fan fiction adventure storytelling (role-play) with the element of chance (game). On the role-playing / storytelling side, each participant was given wide latitude when it came to freely choosing a course of action for his or her character. (Of course, each participant was obliged to pay close attention to and coordinate with actions taken by the other characters, for the story to remain consistent.) On the gaming side, certain questions, events, and outcomes were determined by the threadmaster’s roll of the dice. For instance, dice rolls determined how successful were Gandalf’s attempts to battle a wraith, how many ruffians were in a gang of smugglers encountered along the road, who in the company was injured while fighting the smugglers, how extensive were certain injuries sustained, and the strange fate which befell an urgent letter being carried by a ranger from Elrond to Galadriel (long story short, the letter ended up as dinner in someone’s stomach.) Also on the gaming side, this being Middle Earth, it should come as no surprise that a conflict between two characters was resolved through an actual riddle-contest.

The time period of "On Patrol" is nearly the same as that for "Castle Maladil" … roughly a year after Bilbo Baggins’ mysterious departure from the Shire on his eleventy-first birthday. The events of "On Patrol" immediately precede those of Castle Maladil, and occur in game time over the course of several days.

The character makeup of "On Patrol" consisted of various Elves … some with horses and an oliphaunt, a Bombadil, a female Ranger of the race of Men, male Rangers including Strider, a skin-changer, various Hobbits … some with pony carts including Merry who found one after a rainstorm, a wraith, the wraith’s horse, Men, and an Istari who has a fondness for pipeweed. Those player-characters who remained active until the very end of "On Patrol" include Menelduliniel and Estelarion, Bethberry, Birdland, Holly, and myself. The Fifth and Orofacion of the Vanyar both came into the story choosing to make a cameo appearance; both would be welcomed back on either a temporary or permanent basis.

The tone of "On Patrol" strove always to maintain the "look and feel" of Tolkien’s sub-creation, that is, to be "canon" or in keeping with all that we know about Middle Earth as presented in Tolkien’s literary works.

Location/Setting/Time Period within Story:

The company will set out from the Trade Inn at Sarn Ford and journey South to Tharbad. Please note that this RPG takes place about a year after Bilbo Baggins journeyed to stay at Rivendell. Gandalf therefore has no clue that many of the outlaws being encountered are connected with Saruman, nor will he be successful in discovering anything of the sort.

Types of Characters that May Be Involved:

Race: Elves, Men, or Hobbits would be most fitting. A Dwarf or two would come in handy, but you can well imagine that Elvish ghosts guarding gold won’t look too kindly on you, if you take my meaning. Other races will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Other Character Needs: Since it looks like we already have a good blend of diverse talents that complement each other, please feel welcome to add your own individual stamp and preference when it comes to your character’s profession and/or abilities.

(… And yes, mods are welcome to join. ;-) )

Players that Have Already Been Accepted into the RPG:

Bethberry, Birdland, piosenniel, Vanima Edhel, The Fifth as well as anyone else from On Patrol who wishes to become involved again.

Rules that Players of the RPG Must Follow:

1) Your character proceeds on this quest at your character's own risk, knowing full well that injury or death may result from dangerous circumstances, and that actions have consequences. You understand that you may be asked to make a saving throw on a six-sided die in case of an unusual attack … if you miss your saving throw, the results for your character may be rather dramatic. However, whatever happens as a result of failing to make a saving throw can generally be reversed and your character brought back to normal, provided that the company works as a team to help the individual in trouble.

2) Not everybody who applies to be a player in this RPG will automatically be accepted just because he or she submits a character description and asks. If you and I already know each other from posting back and forth to each other in the Barrow Downs forums or through PMs, I am far more likely to accept you. To be honest, if I don’t know you or have never had any contact with you, you probably won’t be accepted. However, newcomers who can show strong evidence of high quality writing ability (such as writing samples that meet my personal, and yes, subjective standards) will find a respectful welcome based upon their merit. Please note that "high quality writing ability" means far more effort, enthusiasm, and creativity than just a skeletal "here's my character, can I join?"

First Post:

Submitted by Gandalf the Grey

Late in the Second Age, Maladil forfeited his Elvish immortality to marry Adela, a mortal woman. They had a son named Kenelm, a daughter named Calimiel, and ten beloved servants.

All was well until Adela died. Then, Maladil bemoaned his earlier decision. One night after smashing glasses and bottles against the bricks of the fireplace in a drunken rage, he swore a mad oath that unless Kenelm sailed West and convinced the Valar to restore his immortality, his fëa would refuse to depart Middle Earth, but remain inside the castle through all eternity, though his body die. Maladil further swore that neither would the Valar take his children or servants the way his wife had been taken, and that Kenelm, Calimiel, and all his servants would share his fate.

That very week, Orcs raided the Castle and slew all the inhabitants in their sleep. But the Orcs stole away no treasure, for the ghosts of Maladil, Kenelm, Calimiel, and the servants drove off those who dared disturb the precious metals and other finery.

It is said the ghosts guard the dread fastness to this day. Maladil shakes the foundations of his Castle with angry pacing footfalls and the stormy shrieks of one gone insane. Kenelm plays a harp with missing strings and sings softly of his captivity. Calimiel tends the ancient herb gardens, reputedly containing plants no longer in existence anywhere else in Middle Earth in this Third Age. Some servants weep, while others resigned to their boredom pass the time with chores to take their mind off their horror.

A recent Council of Rangers held near Sarn Ford has determined an increasing level of peril in the vicinity of the Castle at Tharbad. Outlaws ... and perhaps worse creatures ... are taking advantage of the fell reputation of the area. Though fear prevents foul ruffians and brigands from setting foot in the Castle itself, they expand their territory ever nearer, even unto within sight of its walls. Gandalf the Grey has been asked to see what, if anything, can be done to lift the curse of Castle Maladil or at least drive out what other evil lurks nearby. Those who accompany the wizard may each have their own motives: duty, friendship, interest in rumored treasure, curiosity, seeking their own road in company with strong companions for safety in numbers ... But whatever the reason, it is hoped that all see the wisdom in banding together and combining their talents for the common good.

As a new day dawns, Gandalf and a small band of travelers make ready to leave the Trade Inn at Sarn Ford, to journey South to Tharbad.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Welcome!

Thank you, Mithadan, for initiating this thread.

Without further ado, I hereby pronounce the Castle Maladil Discussion thread open for business. smilies/smile.gif

* bows, straightens up, and soon fireworks appear overhead sending forth streamers of shimmering orange, gold, and red to spangle an obsidian sky *

Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

Thank you, kind Gandalf. After spending 24 hours pondering whether I should be Menelduliniel and Estelarion or whether I should take another approach (okay, some of that time was taken with shrieking quite loudly at my Extended Edition DVD's coming), I decided that they will partake in this adventure. For those that do not know them:

MENELDULINIEL
Name: Menelduliniel
Race: Elf
Age: about 2,900
Appearance: She is about 5'10" with blonde hair and grey eyes. She is slender but fairly strong. She carries two knives. She wears mostly black. She is very pretty (in a cute sort of way).
History: She is the daughter of servants of Thranduil. Because she befriended some people in high positions, she was allowed to train to be a shieldmaiden. She was not too skilled, although she was quite vain and ambitious. She also had a crush on Legolas, who did not return the favor (and never really would). She did not see this, however and, once she knew that he favored her instructor and she favored him, she killed her instructor. She has been trying to live in the wild since. She has been saved by Estelarion a few times, as she always finds her way into trouble.
Horse: Salkadome
Weapons: She uses her two knives mostly, but, if all else fails, she can use a bow and arrows.
Strengths: She is fairly fearless. She is loyal when it is beneficial to her. She has guilt for what she did to her instructor, Poldorawen and, when she loves, she loves with all her soul. She is diligent in all tasks that she attempts.
Weaknesses: She is vain and has a nasty temper (as we saw in "On Patrol"). She is a bit pushy and can be overly ambitious. She doesn't see her flaws and thinks that she could beat even men in fighting, which she certainly could not do.

ESTELARION
Name: Estelarion
Age: about 3,200
Race: Elf
Appearance: He has dark hair and piercing grey eyes. He stands at about 6'2". He, I can honestly say, is very handsome. He is also strong. He wears dark forest green.
History: He is not of noble birth, but his parents were fairly high up in society in the Elf world. He took off into the wilds on his own when he was about 2,100 because he was "bored". He was once captured by Orcs. The Orcs soon caught a young, blonde maiden, Menelduliniel. He eventually managed to free himself and Menelduliniel (with her help, of course), and the two journeyed together for some time. They have been travelling together on and off for many years now. He follows her around a bit, making sure she does not get hurt.
Horse: Amanroch
Weapons: Bow and Arrows...and, later in life, he picks up the art of fighting with a meat cleaver because he was forced to...(not that I'm advertising for "The Whistling Fairy" or anything).
Strengths: He is physically strong and he is brave. He is loyal to Menelduliniel.
Weaknesses: He is a little obssessed with Menelduliniel's well-being and, if she is in trouble, he will drop everything and aid her, even if he will get seriously hurt for doing so. He's also not the most resourceful Elf nor the most trained. He will miss with his arrows quite frequently.

If you want to know anything else at all about them, just ask!

[TheLadyAerowen]

I've read over the description and all, and I'd like to join the RPG, if I may. :-)

Character Bio:
Name: Alearindu
Race: Man
Description: Alearindu is a basically a Ranger. She is quiet most of the time, and enjoys the night. (Hence the name, Alearindu= glourious twilight) She wears mostly black, dark green and/or maroon. Alearindu is best with her sword, yet is good with her bow and arrows, which she carries with her.
Her horse, Mornen ('Black Waters, Thanks The-Fifth smilies/smile.gif) is a completly black horse except for a small stripe of silver-white down the front of his muzzle. In the moonlight, pools of silver shine throughout his coat, which is where he gets his name.
Alearindu doesn't fear many things, but tends to.. not expect the unexpected.

If there is something I left out, I'd be happy to add it for you, Gandalf. smilies/smile.gif

[piosenniel]

Name: Holly
Race: Hobbit from Stoor stock - a little larger than the Fallohides or Harfoots, more independent, and inclined to wanderlust, adventurous, comfortable in the water, and quite capable of a certain ferocity if roused. Originally from Pincup, where her ma and pa owned a small family store.

when Holly's ma and dad passed on, Holly had the store for her own. But as is often the case, her family didn't actually own the building where the store was at. It was on the land of some folks called the Sacksville-Baggins. A grasping group of kinfolk who apparently own half the farthings, and are working on the other half."

"So one day their son and heir comes riding up on his pony and announces that the family plans to raise the rent on the sorry little place. Now of course, Holly was barely making ends meet with her little business, and of course, that weasely son was willing to negotiate, seeing as he had had his eye on our Holly for some time."

"Well, Holly seemed to be in a fix: either take up with that scheming Sacksville-Baggins, or close shop and go live off the kindness of distant relations. But since neither of these things suited Holly's nature, she chose a third way. She threw the key in that boy-o's face, and told him to take his building and to the Void with him . . . packed up what little stock she had on that pony of hers and took to the tinkering life. Hasn't done badly at it, and she travels quite freely around the Westlands; that is, in the areas where it's not too dangerous to go . . . Holly is a right-fair limner. Has been since she was a small lass. She could probably do a lot better with her drawing then her tinkering if she tried, but aside from the odd inn sign or baby portrait, she doesn't get much work in that line. People who have the silver pennies for a good cooking pot seldom have the extra scratch for a drawing, no matter how good." -- courtesy of Birdland

Holly had just come from visiting friends in the Eastfarthing and was making her way to Tharbad when she encountered this group on the road, and travelled with them to the Inn at Sarn Ford. Knowing that travelling in a group is safer in these shadowed days, she has joined forces with them as they travel southeast to Tharbad.

From there, her intention is to go to Isengard and through Fanghorn to the Anduin; then down the Great River to Minas Tirith. From there she wants to go to Pelargir and take the road then to Linhir, where she has a dwelling. The object of this trip is purely for her own curiosity & enjoyment, She is sketching the countryside and sights as she goes and keeping a running description of the trip in her chapbook.

She is travelling with Periwinkle (Peri), her pony.

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

During her stay at the Inn, she met a fellow Hobbit:

Olo Gardener of Michel Delving.

From a large, farming family - the youngest of seven boys. He is a good natured young man, scrupulously honest, and a masterful handler when it comes to working with horses.

(Birdie) smiled to herself, thinking of the not-so-unusual interest the young groom had taken in her friend. But this one seemed to be a little more worthy of Holly's attention. A bright lad, perky but not overly exuberent, with a good head on his shoulders. And he certainly was a good listener! -- courtesy of Birdland

[ November 12, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

I would very much like to join this game. I have sent you a p.m. regarding my proposed character.

I will await your response before proceeding. Many thanks.

sharon

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Vanima Edhel:

Good to hear that Menelduliniel and Estelarion will continue on the road to Tharbad. * smiles then turns thoughtful * For perhaps doom decrees that even the running of those trapped in exile can work for the good of those trapped in exile powerless to run.

TheLadyAerowen:

Hullo my lady. We've met in chat, our paths cross in passing seldom. From my observations you've a gentle charming elegance. Still, I would like to know you a bit better before making a decision about granting you acceptance to the company. Towards this end, soon you will find a Private Message. * bows respectfully *

piosenniel:

Welcome back to Holly, Periwinkle, and Olo. Hobbits, being close to the earth, will keep the company well grounded, and Peri ensure that we've a modest amount of horse sense. smilies/smile.gif

Child of the 7th Age:

Your PM has been answered, and your character duly accepted into the RPG, to present as you wish. Glad to have you join us, we'll all look forward to getting to know and adventuring with your character. smilies/smile.gif

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[Birdland]

Thanks Gandalf! Hi, Sharon!

Character - Birdie the Skinchanger

Physical Characteristics - Birdie is a small woman, "no longer young". She has black hair, with a curious snow-white "streak", and a pronounced "widow's peak". Eyes are black.

Birdie is a Skinchanger, and has the ability to "morph" into another body, similar to the Beorn. She can become a Neekerbreeker, a black and white crow, or an Ent. She carries a sling at her waist, and is good with it, but no other weapons.

At the end of "On Patrol", few know of Birdie's special talent, except for Holly the Hobbit, and (due to an unfortunate accident) Bethberry the Healer. Gandalf may or may not know that Birdie is a Skinchanger. (He is as tight-lipped about it as Birdie is. smilies/smile.gif )

Birdie is a bit of a montebank and grifter, but is basically a kindly soul, who is loyal to her friends, but distrustful of strangers. If you want Birdie to stick her neck out for you, you have to earn her friendship first. She avoids trouble like the plague, and is in no way, shape or form to be considered a "warrior". First and foremost, Birdie takes care of Birdie. (Or so she likes to think.)

She thinks Gandalf is a "nice old man", and at the end of "On Patrol" is 99% convinced that he is actually "the mighty Gandalf the Grey", but is still not entirely convinced that a powerful Wizard would look so scruffy.

Means of transportation - Walking (or on occasion; hopping, flying, or "Ent-strides). Birdie has no horse, being too poor to afford one.

If you would like to know more about Birdie's character, you can check out "On Patrol" or "The Lonely Star" threads.

[The Fifth]

At Gandalf_theGrey's request (or, more to be exact, my choice), here is the Elf-Ghost Kenelm's small profile.

Age: Almost as old as the castle; yet younger than Maladil

Appearance: A ghostly being, a fair, yet mournful elf garbed in tattered robes of white, worn the day the Orcs slew him. Blood stains are still visible. Floor-length hair. Oftens carries around an old harp, and although strings have been worn away and are missing, still plays beautifully.

Personality: Unlike Maladil, he was very quiet, much like his mother. He cared more about the arts of poem and song, and prefers to stay only in certain places. He was often left alone, and remains alone, unless he grows weary and wanders the halls along with the servants. Suspicious of strangers.

[Mithadan]

I think that I should like to join if I may.

Character: Nardol ("flame head"), a Noldorin Elf born in Aman and a follower of the House of Fëanor, who dwelt with Maedhros during the First Age. Wounded during the Nirnaeth Arnoediad in battle with the Sons of Ulfang, he was taken prisoner and made a slave in Thangorodrim until he was released after the War of Wrath. He bears the scars of his torment both on his body and within it.

He declined the Summons of the Valar and dwelt for a time in Lindon with what remained of his family. Later, he joined with Celebrimbor and lived in Eregion until the people of that nation were seduced by Annatar. Having suffered in Angband, he saw more clearly the nature of of the Deceiver and abandoned Eregion with his wife and child, eventually joining with Elrond during the War of Elves and Sauron. After the fall of Mordor at the end of the Second Age, his wife and son grew weary of the world and departed over the sea, but he was not yet prepared to abandon Middle Earth.

He formed a Wandering Company made up of Elves from the House of Fëanor and journeyed far in Middle Earth even into the East where he came upon an enclave of Avari with whom he dwelt for a time. When these Elves were assailed by Easterlings, he led them to Mirkwood where they joined Thranduil's realm. However Thranduil was ever cool to the people of Fëanor and denied Nardol entry into his kingdom. Bitter, he rejoined his Wandering Company and travelled about, becoming friends with the Dwarves of the Blue Mountains and the Iron Mountains who valued his skills at metalworking. At the time of the events herein, Nardol had settled for a time in Imladris, resting before undertaking further journeys.

He is unfriendly towards Men, remembering all too well the treachery of the Sons of Ulfang and the cruelty of the Easterlings. He thinks little of the Men of the West thinking the Tale of the Fall of Numenor is an all too familiar iteration of the weakness and faithlessness of the younger race. He is grim and quick to anger, more likely to frown than smile, but is skilled at arms and woodcraft. He might enjoy having a Dwarf as a travelling companion.

[Bêthberry]

Bethberry raises her hand and says thank you to Gandalf for including her. Bio (another one?) coming later. smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[*Varda*]

Hey, GandalfTheGrey, I wouldn’t mind joining this RPG! This is my profile, but of course it’s up to you whether you accept me or not.

Race - Hobbit
Name - Poppy Took
Age - 33 (just out of her tweens)
Appearance - 3’ 5”, long curly brown hair, a little chubby. Blue eyes.
History - The only daughter in her family, with 5 brothers. Because of this she is very boyish in some respects, and learned how to fight. Since childhood she was often running off to places, and causing her parents no end of worry, and followed her brothers wherever they went. As a consequence of this she knows her way around, and has good instincts. She also began to learn how to ride a horse, and so she is fairly experienced in some useful skills. And as all hobbits, she can, of course, cook.
Weapons - None. She could handle some sword work, and has always longed to learn how to use a bow and arrow, but has never had the opportunity.
Strengths - Is loyal, but has never been in any really tough situations before. Might try and run if fear overcame her. However, if she made friends, she would stick by them and help them.
Weaknesses - Has a short temper, easily angered if someone says anything offending her or her family. Dislike of criticism, although she’s grown up a little and can control herself better.

Poppy encountered the group on the road, while on yet another of her various excursions. Interested by what they had to say, she went with them to Sarn Ford.

By the way, Pippin is her second cousin once removed smilies/wink.gif so she shares some similar characteristics, and adventurous blood.

I don’t think I’ve really had any conversations with you before, but if you want to see any of my writing, I was in the Audience With The King RPG.

Varda Elentari

[ November 14, 2002: Message edited by: *Varda* ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Here is some background information for my character Andreth and her family. It is possible that one or two other family members may have some role to play at a later time, so I am including a general description of the household. I know this reads like a post, but I needed to get a handle on the girl in my head.

Dagnir and Elenwe ranked among the most talented artisans in Bree, skilled in the craft of weaving and the fashioning of elaborate embroidered tapestries. Their hangings adorned the counting houses of the richest burghers in the city as well as nearby homes of landed gentry, both those belonging to the little folk and to their own kind.

Their own fortunes were considerably more modest. The door to their workshop faced the street and generally stood open during the day. The family lived and slept in the small but pleasant quarters above. They had a daughter Andreth who was strikingly pretty, just twenty-four years old. Their younger son Brandir had recently enlisted as an apprentice to serve several of the Rangers. He was valued as much for his potential as a healer as for his prowess with the sword.

It was Andreth, however, who must claim our close attention. She was naturally athletic and skilled with the bow. Still, for reasons that will be made clear, she was not as outgoing as one might expect of a happy young maid. She could be dreamy, hiding within herself, reluctant to expose her feelings or ideas to others. She'd lived with her parents for many years, using her skilled fingers and sharp eyes to produce fine cloths and wall hangings. In most respects, her life had been quite ordinary.

Still, the neighbors thought differently. For they had much to say about this family of artisans. It was true that no one could point to any improper behavior on their part. The parents were respectful of all customs and authority. Yet, there was an air of secrecy about the family, as if something strange was going on underneath. Some even charged that the father had wandered off on an adventure in his younger days and ended up meeting a band of silvan Elves.

Nor did the parents make matters any easier by some of the tales they spread. Dagnir claimed, more than once, that his own stirps had fallen far from where it had once been. No one could make any sense of this, since, as far as anyone remembered, the Man and his kin had lived humbly within the artisan community of Bree.

But the greatest irritant of all, as far as the neighbors were concerned, was the behavior of the girl. She was secretive and distant, and seemingly possessed knowledge and vision of her craft that went far beyond her elders. Many wondered how someone from a humble artisan family could have acquired such a gift. But then, they grumbled, what could you expect from a wild young maid with a mop of red curls and green eyes, which always seemed to have a fey look about them!

As a result of all these whisperings, Andreth was not happy. She'd heard too many rumors, too much name-calling, to be trustful of her neigbors. She did have a few friends among the less conventional hobbit tweeners, who seemed to accept her as she was. Still, the girl was looking for a change, wishing and hoping that she'd find a way to get out of Bree. Then an unexpected messenger arrived at her door in the form of her brother who'd come to spend a few days at home. He bore news of a most disturbing nature.......

[ November 13, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[tangerine]

Wow! I'm impressed. There hasn't been a new thread with this level of structure and quality for quite a while that I've found. Thoguh I am not the veteran in the RPG threads that some of you in here are, I would greatly appreciate if you considered my character for this RPG:
Name: Hinura
Race: Men
Age: 28
Physical Appearance: about 5'4, has shoulder-length, dirty-brown hair and small dark eyes. Hinura wears travelling gear often, and earns a living as a travelling bard.
Bio: Hinura grew up with her parents and older brother in a small settlement near the Carrock, and the Eastern side of the Misty Mountains. While still in her teens, the number of Warg attacks on the settlement grew steadily, and her father decided to move the family to Midgewater, just east of Bree. Hinura often travelled with her brother to Rivendell, where she learned to speak broken Sindarian (sp?) and fell in love with the Elvish lore, woven into their songs.
Hinura travels about Arnor, working as a bard for a living, and carries a small wooden harp (about the size of a keyboard) with her. She carries a dagger at her side, but is loathe to use it in a fight unless cornered, due to her relatively small size, and prefers to avoid fights altogether. Nevertheless, she is is kind to other travellers that she meets on the road, and has an insatiable curiousity for tales, especially those concerning elves.
Whether my character gets accepted or not, I think I'll definitely follow this RPG. It should be interesting to watch this group of charcters interact.

[ November 13, 2002: Message edited by: tangerine ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

There are now 11 people whom I've accepted into the Castle Maladil RPG, and this after stating that I was looking for 10. (Your individual welcome messages appear at the bottom of this post.)

Two people whose names have specially been brought to my attention will also have spaces reserved for them, if they should come here requesting to join: Adanedhel and theWhiteLady, both of whom hail from a different Tolkien forum and both of these, a true pleasure to know.

So as of now, it looks like we're ready to start. smilies/smile.gif

theLadyAerowen

Black waters, pools of silver ... how very fitting will be Alearindu, for still waters run deep, but must be looked into to be seen. Thank you for joining us on our journey!

Birdie:

Welcome back. As we walk along, now that our riddle-game has ended, I wonder whether we'll discover that it's not really over yet? * said in cryptic tones * smilies/smile.gif

The Fifth:

You're perfect to play the part of Kenelm. * bows, doffs his hat to you with due regard for the dignity of so truly noble an Elf caught in such a lengthy doom *

Mithadan:

Welcome! So, an Elf endued with Dwarven skills which include metal-working and wood-working, eh? * lights a pipe at this * Tormented and unfriendly though he be, Nardol too has his tune to contribute to the Music ... and what I sense is a crescendo.

Bethberry:

Welcome back, Merry Light of the Old Forest, in word and deed sparking new song and legend to share with the rest of Middle Earth in the best Bombadil tradition! smilies/smile.gif

Varda:

Always glad to take a Took along on an adventure ... hmmm, now just how closely are you related to Master Peregrin? smilies/smile.gif * bows in the Hobbit fashion * I look forward to sharing the road with you.

Elenna:

Welcome back to the Castle Maladil RPG from On Patrol. smilies/smile.gif I look forward to seeing which character you'll decide on, and to our upcoming adventures together.

Aylwen Dreamsong:

Hail and well met to one graced with gently efficient resourcefulness and circumspection. I thank you for your PM, and bid Aislan welcome to the Castle Maladil RPG. smilies/smile.gif

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[Gandalf_theGrey]

tangerine:

A bard, you say? * peers at you, bows a thoughtful greeting *

Alas that our posts crossed, and the time thus out of joint!

Tell you what ... on the one hand, there are so many who have already joined that we're past the official limit of ten. On the other hand, you look to be a promising bard. Though, you're another one whom I'm not familiar with and would need to get to know more in depth before making a firm decision.

Would you be willing to exchange a PM or two about the matter, and wait to see what fate has in store? You're coming in just under the wire.

Gandalf the Grey

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Everyone!

Hello! Yay! The kindly Gandalf the Grey has accepted my character in this RPG! I am looking foward to working with all of you! Is it alright if I post my characters bio?

Name: Aislan
Race: Human
Age: 21
Physical appearance: About 5'6, with black loosely curly hair and almond eyes. She is strong and slender.
History: Aislin had always been an animal person. Her ma passed on when she was little, and her father is an hostler at the Trade Inn, which is how Aislin became interested in animals. She led a small town life, only learning slightly above average sword skills.
Weapons: Mostly uses her sword, and her two daggers. She does know how to hands-on defend herself though.
Strengths: She is self-sufficient, she is strong and hard-working. She knows all there is to know about horses, and can easily treat one if it is hurt or mistreated. She is loyal and usually jovial and good-humoured, and usually keeps cool under pressure. She can easily lift someone's spirits with her smile. She is always willing to help someone in need.
Weaknesses: She is very impatient. She doesn't like waiting for most things. She sometimes doesn't understand why people do things though, and can be easily short-tempered.

Aylwen

[ February 20, 2003: Message edited by: Aylwen Dreamsong ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

I always did poorly in math, but don't we have twelve? Plus Master Gandalf, of course.

1. Piosenniel
2. Child of the 7th Age
3. Adanedhel
4. White Lady
5. Lady Aerowen
6. Birdland
7. The Fifth
8. Mithadan
9. Bethberry
10. Varda
11. Elanna
12. Aylwen Dreamsong

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Ohhhh, yes...you're right....and you counted perfectly...what does this mean? I mean, it is two over the limit...I could...well...let me count again...*counts carefully, math isn't her subject either* Yup. 12...we could go for a lucky 13? Just kidding.

Aylwen smilies/frown.gif

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Hullo Child of the 7th Age:

(Thank you for providing the further background history, btw.) smilies/smile.gif

Beginning with this quote of mine:

There are now 11 people whom I've accepted into the Castle Maladil RPG, and this after stating that I was looking for 10.

And continuing with this quote of yours:

I always did poorly in math, but don't we have twelve? Plus Master Gandalf, of course.

In response to the above:

Adanedhel and theWhiteLady being future acceptees upon their arrival and agreement, let's just say for the sake of mathematical argument that they have indeed already been accepted, making our total 12, without counting me, for I'd make 13.

In the above scenario, there's an obscure formula that comes into play when dealing with haunted castles. It goes something like this: If you were to substitute me for The Fifth such that I would be one of the twelve, and then add the ordinal number (5th) back into the equation again, his essence being after all passed into Shadow long ago, and an ordinal number denoting order being but a shadow of a cardinal number of quantity, The Fifth would quite naturally be swept into Castle Maladil itself as a restless spirit ... to form part of the Quest itself in a seperately ordered set, rather than being part of the quantitative set of Questers.

Any questions? * blinks *

Hullo Aylwen Dreamsong:

All who've been accepted up to this point, remain accepted, whether your number's come up as 1, 5, 12, or indeed, 13. smilies/smile.gif

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

In the above scenario, there's an obscure formula that comes into play when dealing with haunted castles.

Thank you, Grey Pilgrim. I certainly do understand. That must have been the math class where I fell asleep! But I am most gratified that we will all be travelling together.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Announcement:

When it comes to numbers, I'm afraid we've reached the cut-off point, that bitter pass where unfortunately I'm going to have to start turning away for lack of space those people who submit their own characters.

Status:

1) Am currently waiting for a second PM from tangerine before I am able to make a good decision regarding the possible acceptance of her bard character. Regardless of the final decision, tangerine is the final applicant who just made it in under the wire, since our posts crossed last night.

2) I have meanwhile received a PM from yet another person wishing to submit a character ... I will be sending this person a PM letting them know that due to lack of space, if he/she wishes to participate as one of the servant-ghosts within Castle Maladil, that might be possible, provided that after I check this person's credentials a decision is made in favor of acceptance.

3) As of this time, I feel ready to start the RPG anytime now that Mithadan feels he would like to open the RPG by creating the official thread. If tangerine and the servant-ghost are accepted, they can jump in after I post any such acceptance here on the Discussion thread.

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[ November 14, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[piosenniel]

Gandalf

Would you please just list who will be starting out with us, and their character name.

Thanks!

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Mithadan:

Please check your PMs.

Many thanks,

Gandalf the Grey

[Mithadan]

And................the RPG thread is open!

Good luck to all!

[Gandalf_theGrey]

As per piosenniel's wise request, here follows the list of Castle Maladil participants:

1) Aylwen Dreamsong - Aislan
2) Belin - Castle servant-ghost
3) Bethberry - Bethberry, Wyrd
4) Birdland - Birdland, Castle servant-ghost
5) Child of the 7th Age - Andreth
6) Elenna - Eirian Silversong
7) Gandalf the Grey - Gandalf, Maladil, Midnight, others
8) Mithadan - Nardol
9) piosenniel - Holly, Periwinkle, Olo
10) Susan Delgado - Castle servant-ghost named Anna
11 tangerine - Hinura
12) The Fifth - Kenelm
13) theLadyAerowen - Alearindu
14) Vanima Edhel - Menelduliniel, Estelarion
15) Varda - Poppy Took

Spots reserved for the following:

1) Adanedhel
2) theWhiteLady

[ November 15, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Bethberry,

Did you get my pm this morning concerning Andreth's need for a 'gentlewoman' to keep an eye on her?

sharon

[Susan Delgado]

I will play Anna, one of the Castle servants

Name: Anna (Gift)
She is so named because she was a foundling. That is, her parents had given up on children and grown old when they found a baby girl on their doorstep one morning. She was their gift. No one knows where she really came from.

Race: Ghost (all right, Man)

Occupation: Floor Monitor for the floor containing the family. She was in charge of the chambermaids' duties. She also did some of those duties herself.

Personal stuff: She's fairly young (mid twenties perhaps) but knows her stuff. When she was alive, she was secretly in love with Kenelm. She never said anything, because she was only a servant and he was the son of the master of the castle.
Now that their circumstances have been frozen by their deaths, she follows him quietly and can listen to him play his harp for hours. He's never given any overt signals that he's aware of her, but this does not deter her.

Unlike some of the other servants, she has not bothered to continue her duties as maid: she doesn't see the point.
When she's not listening to Kenelm play, she likes to wander in the rose garden. She and Cemiliel have become friends.

[ November 14, 2002: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[Bêthberry]

Child,

I have just replied to the email. And my box for PMs is now open.

Bethberry

[Elenna]

Hello! This RP looks like great fun, and I have been honored with permission to join!

Name: Eirian Silversong
Age: around 2000 (only she really knows)
Race: Elvish
Appearance: Black hair with a silver streak behind her ear. Dark gray eyes. 5'6".
Occupation: Wandering minstrel and healer. Doesn't fight at all.
History: Was raised in Rivendell. Her parents left for the West when she was a little more than a century old. She left Rivendell and became a traveling singer. She also has great knowledge of herbs, and is a powerful healer. As such, she is morally opposed to causing pain, and does not fight.
Personality: Calm and collected most of the time, and has no temper to speak of. However, she will get a bit angry when people want to fight.

She is intended to be a bit contrapuntal to all of ye warriors.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Notes about Morhâk the Looter, Shagdug Darkspear, and their relationship to the ghostly Butler and Master Maladil:

1) Maladil does not know about the arrangement worked out between the Butler and the two Orcs.

2) I'd prefer not to explain the fate of the living prisoners delivered up by the Orcs to the Butler just yet. Thus, I'd greatly appreciate it if those playing the part of a ghost-character don't develop this part of the plot, and please don't mention these prisoners in their posts, for now.

3) On a related note, Holly with her knack for maps will surely remember at some point that at the Council of Rangers, a map was passed around marked with places where crimes had been committed, and that a wagon and its occupants went missing in the vicinity of Tharbad. Bethberry will also be able to remember this bit of information, as will Gandalf.

[ November 15, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Belin]

Name: Celumëomaryu, "voice of the stream"
Race: Elvish ghost.
Occupation: Castle secretary. She was in charge of any and all accounting, librarian duties, or important letter writing. Occasionally, she would even deliver these letters, lending them an appropriate air of gravity with her severe face.
Personality: She's not winning any popularity contests, this one. Her admittedly useful talents have gone to her head, and she tends to sweep around grandly, to the amusement of some of the other servants and the irritation of the rest. She is opinionated, prickly, and proud.

On the other hand, though a casual observer would never know, she's very attached to Calimiel and would do almost anything to keep her from harm... although, as things stand, harm has already come. So she harbors a certain bitterness toward Maladil, and her loyalty to the family as a whole (other than Calimiel) has waned considerably since her death.

Furthermore, now that she is dead, there has been little or nothing left in the way of secretarial work. For years, she invented things to do, and now that she has more or less run out, spends her time pacing the halls and growing more and more irritable. If the curse isn't lifted soon, talking to her will be roughly equivalent to touching a wounded dog.


....And since I am dead, I can take off my head to recite Shakespearean quotations.. no, wait, that's not right. But I bet I can do the scary laugh thing.

Mweheheheheh!
Bwoohohohoho!
....hm. I can see I'll need to work on this.

--Belin Ibaimendi

[Birdland]

Gandalf - Will you, or someone else, be carrying the character of Calimiel?

[Gandalf_theGrey]

An excellent question, Birdland, and very insightful.

I've been debating the matter myself. I have a feeling that Calimiel will need to be handled with care. Now that Calimiel has been referred to more than once in the posts of a Castle ghost, and Kenelm has made an appearance through a post, it would indeed be opportune for the daughter of Maladil to be more of a presence.

My gut feeling is that I'd like someone else other than me to do most of the carrying of the character of Calimiel ... but whoever does so would need to work closely with me, rather than have free reign over the interpretation of this character. While Calimiel exerts a certain charm over some in the Castle, she exudes a weird aura as well ... It's fascinating to note that her own brother Kenelm does not go out of his way to be near her ... and I did not even hint to The Fifth that he play his character this way!

Gandalf the Grey

[ November 16, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[VanimaEdhel]

f.y.i.: Lyrics (originally in Irish) courtesy of Enya. The song was the translation of "Storms in Africa" which actually has no mention of Africa in it at all. Just thought I'd give credit to the original author of the meaning of the words!

[Susan Delgado]

Excellent choice of song, Vanima smilies/smile.gif

[piosenniel]

Varda - Holly and her pony Peri have just greeted you.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Bethberry,

Your suggested post is fine. As you expected, Bethberry may be more eager to meet Andreth, than Andreth to meet Bethberry. She is feeling a bit self-conscious about being the only maid in the group to have a "chaperone" recruited by such a nervous (and loving) parent.

I will not put up my next post until you do yours.

sharon

[ November 17, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[piosenniel]

Sharon -

Holly has just noted Andreth and is curious about her. Expect to be chatted up when the Hobbit finds the opportunity.

[Bêthberry]

Sorry for the delay, Sharon. I'll post later today--family calls. How exactly will Bethberry know Andreth if Andreth doesn't come up to her?

Or should I edit my first post and have Bethberry appear before Andreth, dirt under nails, moss in hair, and all?

Pio, I had also posted in my SAVE post that I would be hooking up with Varda's character, as she has made a suggestion of that in her prior post, and as Varda and I planned in chat. Does this impact on your post?

I owe you both emails. Tonight I hope.

Bb

[piosenniel]

Bethberry - no real impact.

The gregarious Holly is simply chatting up and sizing up her new fellow travellers. My posts can simply reflect my meeting Poppy after you have greeted her.

[ November 17, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Bethberry and Pio--

Check your pms.

Bethberry--BTW, you can imagine the scene with Brandir any way you please. The one where he asks if Bethberry will keep an eye on his sister. You'll have no trouble spotting her after the description--a mop of red curls, freckles and green eyes. She is described as uncommonly pretty! (I've always wanted to do that.)

Pio -- I will respond to Holly as soon as Bethberry does the introduction post which is reserved several spaces back.

sharon

[ November 17, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

All:

Am here and ready to depart Sarn Ford for Tharbad. Methinks it would suit the storyline best, though, to wait to post as Gandalf until after the meeting of Andreth and Bethberry.


Ghost Characters:

When the time is right, I'll send you PMs regarding what's happening with the three prisoners whom the Orcs brought. So far, I've only told Birdland, who's playing the Butler character and is in cahoots with the Orcs. The first post by Calimiel should be done by me to get the ball rolling. All other ghost characters can now logically start becoming suspicious about the strange goings-on, because you can't long keep a secret like three prisoners from ghosts. (Prisoners get hungry and need food and drink, for one thing.) The prisoners consist of one male and two females of the race of Men. Maladil remains in his own little world and will be no help to any Castle ghost with any questions about the situation.

Gandalf the Grey

[ November 17, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Pat--

That sounds fine about tagging onto my post. Feel free to use that whenever you need. It does give a little extra flexibility.

I think Bethberry is busy at the moment with family things so her post will not come till later.

We are going out to the Tropical Rain Forest for my son's birthday so will also be gone this afternoon and so can't respond till tonight at the earliest. Enjoy the movie, and let me know what you think. I promised to wait till Hanukakah for mine!

[Birdland]

Vanima - read the post just above yours. Birdie is settin' in a tree, and is not available for conversations. smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf - I hope my second Butler post is suitable. If not, let me know.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Birdland:

As to the suitability of the second Butler post ... well, I was kinda hoping that at least the good Company setting out from Sarn Ford would be able to reach the Castle before the curse is lifted. smilies/wink.gif Also, before the Butler can succeed at any attempts to lift the curse, since such actions are incredibly far-reaching, you'd have to let me know via PM which action(s) the Butler is attempting to take, and then my guess is that it would take much dice-rolling behind the scenes to determine the outcome(s) of the Butler's actions ... of course, the dice only being one part of the equation ... the other part being the storyline as a whole and the participation of the other gamers / story-collaborators. That said, the post to my mind can stand as it is, ... but whether the post have teeth or be wistful thinking on the Butler's part, time will tell the tale.

VanimaEdhel:

Many thanks for posting the Enya song in Elvish form! It's a nice touch in adding atmosphere. smilies/smile.gif

Susan Delgado:

Anna as a ghost of the race of Men adds quite a lot of personable color to Castle Maladil. It will be interesting to see what becomes of her friendship to Calimiel. Please accept this as a belated "Welcome Aboard!" * bows * smilies/smile.gif

Elenna:

Good to have another healer like Eirian Silversong in the group, and as an added bonus, she doubles as a minstrel. smilies/smile.gif

Belin:

Celumëomaryu the Elvish ghost, another who adds a resounding depth to the Castle. She'll soon be facing quite a moral dilemma, methinks. Please accept this as a belated "Welcome Aboard!" * bows * smilies/smile.gif

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[Bêthberry]

Gandalf and All,

I have edited my first post to include a reminded of the meeting with Strider from On Patrol where he made Bethberry an Honorary Ranger and a reference to the gift of the pendant. I also added references to my falcon, Wyrd.

And I'm wishing I had Riverdance with me. I just might go to the stables and check with Aylwen's character about Avis Rent-a-horse. smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[tangerine]

I just thought that I should cite my lyrics here as being fromMary Jane Lamond's Gaelic lyrics (http://http://www.maryjanelamond.com/audio/audio.html).

[Anglachel]

Hi GtG,

I guess I'm behind the times again. Check your PMs please.

[ November 17, 2002: Message edited by: Anglachel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

I responded to your collision post. Is there a problem with the order of the posts? Wasn't Poppy involved in the collision? Yet a few spaces above me, I think she's with the horses. Should you cut and paste my post and put it immediately below yours? Then just put the heading Child's post?

BTW, hi Poppy. Sorry I smashed you. My character has had lots of hobbit friends, since she's from Bree.

It's hard to keep things straight on the weekends, because we tend not to post as quickly. I will do whatever you suggest.

sharon

[piosenniel]

Sharon and Bethberry

I saw you ask Bethberry to cut and paste your tumble response post - I went ahead and did it for you on to one of mine.

It now directly follows Bethberry's lead in to it.

Sharon - you can delete your duplicate later post.

[ November 18, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Thank you! sharon

[Elenna]

I shall be meeting you soon, everyone. RL pressures have kept me from your sides.

[Susan Delgado]

Credit for Anna's song is Dan Fogelberg from his album The Innocent Age

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Vanima Edhel:

Please go back and edit the post you made on November 17, 2002 05:26 PM to remove the parts about Estelarion talking to Birdland. Your characters Menedluliniel and Estelarion don't know that Birdland's around, they can't see Birdland, and they certainly can't have a discussion with Birdland.

Remember to read carefully and pay attention to what your fellow story-collaborators are saying in their posts.

Gandalf the Grey

[Rimbaud]

Welcome to Gondor. Since this is a well-managed thread with an experienced Game Founder, it belongs here. I would appreciate those of you on the List of Gondor checking in at the Inn, when it is complete.

Rimbaud

PS Gandalf, I would like to meet with you in chat, or discuss over PM, the length (and other factors) of the RPG (and how I can help), as something of a formality and admin check-up.

[ November 19, 2002: Message edited by: Rimbaud ]

[VanimaEdhel]

Sorry! Haven't had time to come on in a while (so...much...homework...on...Mondays). Okay, Gandalf. I'll go do that right now. Must have had a brief senior moment...I knew I was not supposed to know it today, but somehow I didn't then...

[ November 19, 2002: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

TWO STORY NOTES, WITH OTHER INDIVIDUAL PERSONAL NOTES TO FOLLOW:

1) Bethberry has flown out West for family reasons. During her absence, I will be carrying her character.

2) Rooms and Structure of Castle Maladil

Susan Delgado has in her posts mentioned that Castle Maladil has a third floor. This reminds me of the French Castle located in Youngstown, NY at Old Fort Niagara ... (Oddly enough, this real castle, which I've had the pleasure of visiting for historical reenactment purposes, is said to be haunted too. Something about a soldier having been thrown down a well, perhaps with his head cut off). Let's officially go with Castle Maladil having three above-ground floors. Meanwhile, I'm currently working on putting together information describing various rooms in the Castle and already have a list of quite a number of rooms. If you are a Castle ghost and want to have some input into what a room looks like, please contact me via PM with your suggestions.

tangerine and Susan Delgado:

Thanks for posting lyrics of such evocative poignance. * bows *

Anglachel:

Good greetings to one whom I was glad to know before "sailing West" to the Barrow Downs, and am still glad to know ... I will respond soon to your kind PM.

Rimbaud:

Glad we could meet in chat, if only briefly. smilies/smile.gif

VanimaEdhel:

Thank you for editing your post!

[ November 19, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Pio -- Andreth is addressing you. Please check your pms.

sharon

[ November 20, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Birdland]

She'd noticed her once early on at the Inn, but had been afraid to approach because of that crotchety-looking woman who'd stood close to her, staring down her nose at Andreth. But the ill-natured woman was evidently gone.
"Crotchety"? "Crotchety"! I'll give you "crotchety"...(Birdie give Andreth a dose of the same medicine she gave Holly.)

Gandalf - Conflict: COOL! "Volondil!" screams Birdie, "err...I mean: Oh look. A Ranger has fallen in a hole. Perhaps we should rescue him."

[*Varda*]

Nice twist *wonders how she can post now her character is unconscious....*

smilies/smile.gif

Varda

[Child of the 7th Age]

Pio

Andreth's conversation with you was interrupted by a slight disaster! And I am afraid my character has no rope.

sharon

[VanimaEdhel]

Varda: you can have a dream or something maybe...an interesting dream that can post for a good story as we continue on our journey!

And Menelduliniel is about to show one of her many, many flaws...

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Various and Sundry Bits of Business

1) Story's flowing along very nicely; with everyone participating here contributing in a worthy manner, bringing in their character(s) at the right time and place. The action's now progressed to a point where I'll soon make another post ... hopefully tonight. Thanks for the patience you've shown in the meantime, especially Varda! smilies/smile.gif

2) tangerine who's playing the part of the Bard Hinura has informed me that she'll need to be absent today through Sunday. Here's wishing her well while she's away and looking forward to her return.

3) This RPG strikes me as different than others I've been in, due to the fact that a lot of collaboration is happening out of sight and behind the scenes in PMs, the better to prepare for upcoming story situations / conflicts in a way that maintains suspense, surprise, and mystery. I've asked several of you to keep secret(s) of various sorts ... thanks to everyone for your help in this, it should really pay off well down the road! smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

[Gandalf_theGrey]

QUESTIONS OPEN TO INTERPRETATION:

1) Would anyone like to volunteer to throw down cloth into the hole when Bethberry urges Estelarion to use any available cloth to staunch the bleeding of Poppy and Volondil? If so, please let me know and I can go back and edit my post accordingly.

2) Poppy Took can regain consciousness but will be pale and weak. The gash in her leg is a seriously deep wound, so she'll by no means be back to normal just yet.

3) As to Volondil's condition, he's borderline conscious. His condition will be one issue I bring up in a PM which I shall soon send to piosenniel.

BTW, giving credit where credit is due, I've borrowed Bethberry's healing methods nearly word for word from an earlier post made by Bethberry in an RPG from a different Tolkien forum. smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

My character Andreth is wearing voluminous skirts and underskirts. She will be glad to deposit several of these in the hole.

Also, if it is any help at all, Andreth has a horse Whinney who is presently carrying her packs and belongings. Whinney is slow and steady, and of a very placid disposition. The girl is more than willing to let Poppy ride the horse, and carry her own belongings, if that will help matters.

sharon

[ November 22, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

sharon:

Many thanks, your offer of Andreth's help is gratefully accepted regarding the extra material from voluminous skirts and underskirts. smilies/smile.gif If you prefer to write that up yourself rather than (or in combination with) me editing my post, please feel free to handle the writing in the way most comfortable to you.

As for Andreth offering to let Poppy ride her horse Whinney for awhile, we'll soon see how Poppy feels, methinks!

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

I would be much obliged if you would handle the cloth as an edit. I will add Andreth's reflections after that and her offer of a horse, which Gandalf will respond to in the same way as he did in the discussion thread.

sharon

[Bêthberry]

Thank you,Gandalf, for carrying Bethberry for me. I suspect I won't have even this limited access for the next while.

Bethberry

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Bethberry:

Anything I can do to help. * bows * Take care, my friend.

sharon:

The edit regarding Andreth contributing cloth to the cause of the rescue from the pit has been made, as you wished. Am now awaiting Andreth's reflections and offer of her horse. * bows * Please feel welcome to suggest edits to my edit if you see possibilities in the wording that I may've missed.

(Today has been crazy with a painter deciding to not only touch up a tiny bit of water-damaged closet, but going all out and redoing an entire living room wall and portion of ceiling! Thus I was posting while under the influence of white paint fumes, a bedroom and living room torn up as if Orcs had tramped through, and no lunch!)

Gandalf the Grey

[piosenniel]

BIRD

Get your wings a'flapping! Holly needs her supplies replenished if she's to save the sweet Volondil. smilies/biggrin.gif

Take Peri with you - and while you're out, find us some firewood - we're going to need to stay put for a couple of days while he mends enough to travel.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Pio,

Please take a look at Andreth's response which comes right after your post. She's made an offer to help with transport, or stay herself and build a stretcher/sledge.

Since Holly is a small hobbit, she might need some help lifting such a heavy ranger. Of course, you potentially have Bird, but I don' know that.

sharon

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Of Moss-Gathering and Kings- "Foiled Again," or "A Pun Close to Hand is Worth Two Bird(lands) in the Bush" smilies/smile.gif

Keeping track of details:

Early in the morning (or perhaps even middle night) before the company set out from Sarn Ford, Bethberry foraged for borage aka kingsfoil near an elderberry bush (plus she's carrying a pouchful given her by Strider way back in the "On Patrol" RPG.)

Still, Bird does well to go in search of more kingsfoil, it's definitely a worthwhile way for her to spend her time.

As for the moss, better still that Bird gather a supply!

For while Bethberry gathered moss in her hair during her moonlight harvest, I do not perceive that Bethberry has brought any moss with her ... plus, we all know that it's really Old Tom who's referred to as the Bombadil moss-gatherer, eh? smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

[TheLadyAerowen]

I realise I haven't posted in the discussion thread a bit..lol But I do read everything and all.

But now, since we have three people injured, and some going out and looking for healing herbs, I take it we are probably going to set up camp soon?

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Excellent point, Lady Aerowen! smilies/smile.gif

I've gone back and edited my most recent post to reflect your ideas.

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

Will you let me know when time has started again? Because I had a post written out, then I went back to review before I posted it and realized that you failed to start time again, as I thought you had. I saved the post for when time has once again resumed, so it will not be lost, but...just let us know when you have started time again, Gandalf!

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Your wish is my command, Vanima Edhel: smilies/smile.gif

Time has started again.

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

*Curtsies back, then can't resist herself and gives Gandalf a biiiiig hug.*

I thank you Gandalf! smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

And, I really thought the post was better for where we were yesterday, so I edited it to make it better for today.

[TheLadyAerowen]

Well my friends, I'm going to be heading off for a few days on a trip. Thus, I will not be able to post for at least two days. (I dont know if the computer at the other place works) But, as I told Gandalf, I don't mind if you must use my character, or horse. smilies/smile.gif

Be back soon! And all of you have a nice Thanksgiving (if you celebrate it, that is) lol

~ The Lady Aerowen

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Vanima Edhel:

* returns your hug * You're quite welcome, my friend.

Lady Aerowen:

Enjoy your holiday!

All:

Firstly, Happy Thanksgiving! smilies/smile.gif

Secondly, I'm travelling this week as well. At the moment, I'm using a borrowed computer. Since I time-share the computer at this location, it's likely that I will have some computer access at night. However, what with holiday visiting, I can't count on being around regularly this week. And when I stay overnight Thursday with a different relative, I'll probably have no computer access at all for a day or two. I plan to return to my normal computer Sunday night.

Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

Have a good trip Gandalf. And I will be online tomorrow (on Thanksgiving), so I will wish you All a Happy Thanksgiving then!

By the way, where has Varda got to? I left it open for her to tell a brief story of her character to Menelduliniel, who I thought, in turn, would share a brief history of herself. I was thinking that a Hobbit-Elf friendship would be a nice addition to the tale...

[*Varda*]

I'm here, I'm here, I'm here!

I've just been busy on the computer in the past few days, uninspired, and I didn't want to post a really bad post just for the sake of posting.

I will post tonight

And I think a hobbit-elf friendship would be good.

[Susan Delgado]

I have a request: Would all the Ghosts please post more often. Belin and I have run out of inspiration. Thank you.

[VanimaEdhel]

Yes, apparently I am supposed to tell The Fifth to post already...I was asked if I had any control over him, and I said I didn't think so but that I'd pass the message on anyway!

All: Happy Thanksgiving! May it be a peaceful one!

[TheLadyAerowen]

My computer works here in sunny Florida lol, So I'll be back to regular posting. Happy Thanksgiving to all, and happy posting smilies/wink.gif

~The Lady Aerowen

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Susan Delgado:

Regarding your request to the other ghosts to post more:

1) Definitely a post from The Fifth would always be welcome.

2) Thinking about it, I could put up a post for Lord Maladil, a flashback to the fateful night when Orcs burst in and killed every Elf and Man in the Castle.

3) All of the ghosts, played by yourself Susan, as well as Belin, Birdland, and The Fifth, are doing an awesomely tremendous job! smilies/smile.gif

Vanima Edhel:

Thanks for your well-wishes. Am still travelling, as a matter of fact. smilies/smile.gif

Varda:

Am very glad to see that you recognize the importance of quality over quantity when it comes to posting ... in that it's far better to wait several days if you're uninspired, instead of posting just for the sake of posting. smilies/smile.gif

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[ November 30, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[VanimaEdhel]

As I do not know what will happen in the way of danger, I played it off as Estelarion would if he sensed uneasiness somewhere in the group. If you want them to be completely oblivious, I can change my post. I was trying to figure out a reason why they would call Menelduliniel and Poppy over, and that was the best one of the ones I came up with. As I always say, "Editing is your friend". Well, I do not say it, but I agree with it. If you want me to change Estelarion's paranoia, I will. Oh, and the last post in the Castle Maladil RPG was my 1500th! Yay!

[Gandalf_theGrey]

The Lady Aerowen:

Respectfully, I ask that you please delete the most recent post you made on November 30, 2002 12:13 PM. Gentle or no, for Alearindu to forcibly take Holly by the arm and stop her entry into the woods is not a proper action for Alearindu to take, unless you've first received permission from piosenniel to interact with Holly in such a way. Knowing Holly the way I do, it also strikes me as being out of character for Holly to stand frightened against a tree after she's decided to take action.

Vanima Edhel:

Actually, Poppy's leg still has a huge gash in it, bandaged though she is. Walking normally would cause her to scream in pain. So even if Poppy hears people calling for "others" to help, logically, no one expects someone as injured as Poppy is to do anything that would further harm her leg. Therefore, please edit your post accordingly. (Varda, please keep this in mind for your posts too.)

Also, Vanima Edhel,
I respectfully ask you to please delete the part where you ask Poppy to tell you stories about the Shire ... now that you and Poppy have both exchanged your life stories, it would be preferable to have your posts be about the action currently taking place in the Castle Maladil RPG at this point. There's a time and a place for everything, and lengthy stories about the Shire would not be wise right now. (Nor would it be safe, as both story-teller and listener might end up far worse off than Volondil if they don't pay attention to their surroundings!)

Thanks for the willingness you've shown when it comes to editing your posts! smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

[ November 30, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[TheLadyAerowen]

Ehh..sorry. I still haven't gotten around to not using people in my posts. I usually..don't... I'm sorry everyone.

But now, I'm confused. Are Holly and I still in the forest? (btw..I wasn't asked about going into the forest, but I don't mind if people use my character like Pio did, in-character-ish) I mean..we never came out, and yet pio said Peri blocked her way when she was against that tree.. Oh great. I'm very sorry. I totally messed things up. smilies/frown.gif *sigh*

[Gandalf_theGrey]

the Lady Aerowen:

Here's hoping I can explain further and help clear things up ... and that you'll still be up for adventuring with the likes of me when it's all done. * gentle smile * smilies/smile.gif

Here's the quote where piosenniel used your charactor Alearindu:

Alearindu noted the Hobbit's entrance into the underbrush of the forest, and thinking it odd she should be so armed, followed . . .

To my mind, saying that Alearindu "followed" is open-ended and minor enough such that Alearindu retains freedom of action. After all, Alearindu can follow Holly one step, two steps, all the way into the forest ... or Alearindu can change her mind at any time, all with no major implications to her personality or alternative actions. This is quite different than a situation where one character (Alearindu) prevents another character (Holly) from taking an action once a character (Holly) has already made a decision and started to take an action!

Knowing when it's safe to use another person's character without permission vs. when you must ask another person first before using their character is something that will get easier to understand with time and experience.

As for whether Holly and/or Alearindu are still in the forest, you can find out the answer to where Holly is by reading
piosenniel's most recent post which includes a scene where Holly sets up camp. As for where Alearindu is, you may decide whether she ventures into the forest or not, as you wish.

Many thanks for removing that post. Your gracious apology is accepted, all is well.

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[ December 01, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[piosenniel]

Lady Aerowen

My most recent post reflected the question that your character asked at the end of your last (and I believe deleted post).

Alearindu had asked Holly if she were going to join her and approach the area where Bird and Nardol were having an altercation. Your character was going to offer her help, but my character was held back by the insistence of her pony.

I will fix it so that it no longer refers to your deleted post.

[VanimaEdhel]

*Raises one eyebrow* Hm...I knew Poppy was badly gashed, but I didn't know that it was so bad that she couldn't stand. Okay...all edited anyway.

And it seems that the new development does not change the fact that people are still missing from the group. So I take it that both Poppy and Menelduliniel keeping an eye on the woods would still be a good idea?

[Mithadan]

Gandalf, You comments in the RPG thread are correct. The way the thread developed, Nardol was painted into a corner, needing to either bypass the group to avoid the Ent/Bird, battle the Ent/Bird or "seek" help in avoiding the conflict.

Bird, do you still want your Shape-changer nature to remain concealed? How is Nardol to avoid speaking of this? How is Bird to reveal the fact of the attack on her if she does not reappear?

[Birdland]

Mith - Nah, it's time for Birdie to come out of the skinchanger closet, or else I won't get to interact with anyone else! smilies/smile.gif

Oh, and I barely laid a finger on ya! You were just scared, ya big baby.

[ December 02, 2002: Message edited by: Birdland ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Mithadan,

Please see my post in the story. My character would like to develop a friendship with Nardol in the course of this RPG. But it is clear to her that this will not be an easy task.

From his background, I would guess that Nardol is singulary unreceptive to friendly relations with the guests of Arda, be they male or female.

sharon

[VanimaEdhel]

Sorry, a bit of a lull in Menelduliniel's action. Estelarion is useful, so at least you have him...Menelduliniel is...well, herself...sorry she isn't of much help at the moment...

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Vanima Edhel:

Menelduliniel's been quite helpful in watching over Poppy, actually. * bows * smilies/smile.gif

All:

Look out, I've got one doozy of a megapost to post very soon. (I'd stay and post now but it's after 2:00 a.m. here and I need to get an early start in the morning.)

My post will include a mention of Holly, Olo, Peri, Poppy, Bethberry, Menelduliniel, Nardol, Andreth, Birdland, and where my character Gandalf currently is in relation to all whom I've mentioned. Sort of a taking stock before all heck breaks loose. smilies/wink.gif

An encounter is about to begin, but until I officially post the situation in the RPG, all that your characters will notice is that you hear Midnight neighing in the distance, answered by a couple of muffled battle cries.

The Company's fortunate ... when I rolled the initiative dice, Midnight won the initiative against his assailants. (That just means Midnight strikes out at his assailants more quickly than they can strike out at him during this round ... it does not determine the success of whatever action Midnight takes against his foes, nor does it prevent Midnight from taking damage from them.) One reason why the Company as a whole benefits from Midnight's winning the initiative is that Midnight is the first line of defense, (as in, the horse is drawing off or at least slowing some assailants from their goal of reaching the camp) and starts off with a slight advantage timewise as he fights off his enemies.

More dice will need to be rolled before I can determine what happens to Midnight for good or ill, and how many assailants will come upon the camp. (I know how many assailants there are now, what I need to determine is whether Midnight incapacitates any of them.)

I'll post as soon as I can, and perhaps meanwhile post an official SAVE when I'm more awake than I am now and able to think more strategically.

* bows, wondering what exactly he's just been rambling on about while half asleep * smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

[ December 04, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Elenna]

I am sorry. I know I signed up for this RP, but find that I don't have the time to commit to playing, what with RL concerns. Again, I apologize and wish you all luck.

[TheLadyAerowen]

*reads over the list again* So..nothing happens to me or Mornen as far as I can see. Then again, I can be quite unobservant at times. I am okay about the little lecture. smilies/smile.gif It will only make me better, so it's all good. I hope the rest of you have the luck of the die smilies/smile.gif

[VanimaEdhel]

*curtsies to Elenna*

It has been a pleasure playing with you! I hope that everything is okay in your personal life. You will be missed! Maybe I will have the pleasure of RP'ing with you at a later time!

Hmmm...Menelduliniel's getting some action. Well, she's always looking for trouble...and looks like Estelarion won't be around to protect her. *devilish grin* I wonder how she'll do on her own!

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Elenna:

I wish you success on your road. Thank you for informing us of your need to be away. I shall write out your character Erian in a gentle manner. * bows *

theLadyAerowen:

Please feel welcome to write a post in which your character reacts to the events going on around her and/or describes what she sees ... right about now, with the camp about to come under attack, what would Alearindu do, being a Ranger? Please note that I've gone back and changed the post I put up yesterday, so you'll probably want to read it through again, along with the new post I put up today.

Vanima Edhel:

Please feel welcome to bring Estelarion into the action. Simply, I didn't write anything about Estelarion in my post because he was mainly keeping watch on the fringes of the forest, so Gandalf really wasn't all that aware of him.

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

Okey-dokey. He's going to help Menelduliniel protect Poppy. I tried to not copy Sam's movie lines, but they started sounding a bit like them. I'm sorry, but it's what I think she actually would say...

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Vanima Edhel:

Quite all right about Menelduliniel's dialog resembling Sam's.

piosenniel:

Since the two Half-Orcs that ran up against Holly and Olo were both already injured by Midnight, and since your characters had stealth and the element of surprise in their favor, I'll grant that these two Half-Orcs were indeed killed in the way you describe, without needing to roll dice.

Mithadan and Child of the 7th Age:

My dice are at home and I'm at work. Will be able to respond with the outcome of your chosen actions later tonight.

Castle Ghosts:

You haven't been forgotten, nor has the Maladil flashback, as you know from my contact with you behind the scenes! The flashback shall appear when the time is right (likely soon after the current campsite battle) ... and one of you has already chimed in wanting to post a related flashback of your own, which I'm greatly looking forward to. Many thanks for all your patience and secrecy meanwhile. There's much hidden talent and rich depth and dimension among you, the full extent of which the travelling company will come to discover. smilies/smile.gif

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

Just wanted to check with you concerning the two questions I raise in the latest post:

Question #1, regarding the threat to drag Andreth off to the Castle: I am assuming that, when the Orc cried these words out, it was loud enough for all to hear and understand. If I am not correct in this assumption, then I will edit my post.

Question #2, regarding my question about Bird: I know her identity has been secret till now. However, I spoke with her by private message, and she is now encouraging me to raise this question with you. I believe it is her intention to reveal her nature to her companions so she can more freely use her abilities.

sharon

[ December 08, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

sharon:

Your post is quite good as ever at moving the action forward. * bows in admiration *

Regarding Question #1:

Yes, your assumption is correct that the Orc's words were loud enough to be overheard by the company.

Regarding Question #2:

You're also correct about Bird's true nature as a skin-changer being revealed to the group.

Question #3:

It occurred to me the other day that I hadn't exactly gotten around to drafting the actual text of the letter from Elrond to Galadriel. When I started thinking on this, an intriguing little ... and quite logical ... plot element popped into my mind. Now the whole letter isn't about Castle Maladil, and the contents of the whole letter can't be made public given the confines of Tolkien-canon on our RPG (musings on the Ring shall of course remain secret from the company). However, I wonder under what conditions the part concerning Andreth will come to light? (She's not mentioned by name in the letter.) Maybe sooner, maybe later ...

Gandalf the Grey

[ December 08, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

Thank you for the clarification. Needless to say, there is one part of your post that puzzles Andreth:

However, I wonder under what conditions the part concerning Andreth will come to light? (She's not mentioned by name in the letter.) Maybe sooner, maybe later ...


Now, you've got me wondering! Andreth certainly has had no personal dealings with either of these two valiant Elves. Hmm. I can think of a few possibilities, but I'm not sure.

Guess I'll just have to wait and see.

sharon

[Bêthberry]

My grateful thanks, Gandalf, and others, for carrying 'Bethberry' in my absence.

Child, has Andreth weaned herself from my chaperonage?

Bethberry

[Mithadan]

Speaking of Andreth, I may be suffering from some race confusion. Isn't Andreth a daughter of Man, not a Hobbit?

[Child of the 7th Age]

Mthadan,

Andreth is definitely a daughter of Man. Is there something in the thread that suggests otherwise? Runs to check and see.

Comes back: Oops. Bethberry, could you edit your post? I'm one of the big folk this time around.

Yes, Andreth is definitely trying to wiggle her way out of Bethberry's tutelage. Since you were away, we didn't get a chance to explore that as much as we might have.

sharon

[ December 10, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Bêthberry]

My error, Child. I called her a hobbit lass in my recent post. I must be having problems forgetting Cami. smilies/smile.gif

Thanks, Mith. I'll edit my post now.

Bb

[Gandalf_theGrey]

tangerine:

Please go back and edit your post to remove the name of Eirian. Because Elenna publicly posted her wish to leave the RPG here in the Discussion thread, Eirian is no longer a part of the story. In fact, I've gently written out Eirian ... there's a post in the RPG where Bethberry mentions something to the effect that Eirian has quietly left the group.

Thank you,

Gandalf the Grey

[tangerine]

oops. I know I saw that, but I wasn't thinking then. Sorry about that.

[VanimaEdhel]

I am not escalating any disagreements, I'll just tend to Menelduliniel briefly, okay? She will be off in a corner.

Sorry, I had an insane week. I'm lucky I have this time (technically I should be readying for my piano concert tonight, but...no...I'm not). After this week is over, it should be better...

Edit: Oo: just read the new "no sig" request...okay, will do...

[ December 11, 2002: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]

[Birdland]

Bravo, Gandalf! Loved that last, ghastly post. Especially the part about the newly-formed ghosts gathering in the bedroom to witness the death of Maladil.

Spooky!

[Susan Delgado]

Yes, indeed, very stylish. smilies/smile.gif

So what's gonna happen now?

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Child of the 7th Age:

I caught your reference to glinting eyes ... very clever, assuming we're on the same wavelength. smilies/smile.gif Of course, Gandalf saw not those eyes, nor will he come to know of them on this journey. * nods appreciation *

Birdland and Susan!:

Many thanks for your kind compliments. * bows gratitude * smilies/smile.gif

As to the question,

So what's gonna happen now?

Good question.

For I have the doom of my own Friday the 13th to live through today, and the question applies to my life as well as our story. People have been coming up to me throughout the day, each wishing me farewell in their own manner. One has presented me with the gift of a small travelling bag ... how very appropriate for a Grey Pilgrim! It's been very touching. I'll be missed, and at least I can take that with me now on my road into the unknown.

One of my well-wishers appeared bearing a broken clock. He spoke with me, as if to repair Time itself with words while he set down clock-hands and other parts of the timepiece on my desk, only to pick them up again and set them aright. The metaphor of Time dismantled, I thought to myself. Chills went down my spine, and increased at his words which seemed to read my thoughts, for he knows not that I am Gandalf. But he said to me, "And now for my next trick, I shall reassemble it." Imagine, the reassembling of Time.

Rest assured that the action of Castle Maladil shall proceed apace ... the letter contains a great hope, which shall soon be disclosed to the company, to give them a clearer direction on what to strive for at the Castle.

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[*Varda*]

*runs in breathless*

Sorry I've not really been posting, I've had a lot of homework and Christmassy things on - and for some reason the forum hates me at the moment and has been popping up little Cannot find Server pages all over the place till I get really frustrated. smilies/rolleyes.gif

But, posted and back.

Varda

[VanimaEdhel]

I'm here! I apologize for being busy these past few days! I'm all pumped for Christmas (and ready)! Party on, people!

EDIT: Rather than double-posting, I will credit the song here. It is actually called Llorando, which means Crying in Spanish. It is sung by Rebekah de Rio in the movie "Mulholland Drive". It is the first (and only so far) song that made be break down crying. It's really beatiful and she has an amazing voice. You shoud listen to it if you get the chance.

[ December 18, 2002: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Oopsie admission!

I would like to apologize to theLadyAerowen for not seeing the post she made on December 12th. After having read through the RPG twice one day with very poor eyesight, I came away with the mistaken impression that she was inactive for over two weeks. Since it's my policy to gently write out of the RPG anyone who does not post within two weeks, I did just that.

However, the good news is, that theLadyAerowen can just as gently be written back in to the RPG. We've straightened matters out via PM, and I'm happy to welcome her back (and thankful with the patience she's shown me!)

No, Gandalf the Grey is not perfect, but I am willing to improve as best I can. smilies/smile.gif

I hope within the next 24 hours to come up with a post for both a Calimiel-Anna encounter at the Castle, as well as a post to fast forward the company to Castle Maladil.

Varda and Vanima Edhel:

Glad to see you around! smilies/smile.gif

Actually, everyone involved with this RPG deserves a big round of applause for the excellent progress of this story-adventure!

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[TheLadyAerowen]

*waves at everyone* Yes, Alearindu, Mornen and I are still here. I sent a PM to Gandalf telling him of my business, but no! my computer had to mess up.

I've been busy with finals and Christmas shopping and decorating, and sisters' basketball tournaments. *takes a breath* lol But, starting tomorrow, I'll be on Christmas Vacation for 16 days, so I should be here a lot. Save Christmas day. I'll be out of town then.

I'm sorry for the trouble everyone! That's the second time this RPG *facepalms*. No one may be perfect, but it doesn't hurt to want to be. smilies/wink.gif

[VanimaEdhel]

Welcome back, LA! *hugs*

Gandalf: if you want any of the lyrics to any songs that Menelduliniel and Estelarion would sing, just ask, as you are going to move the game along a bit...I have a bunch stored away (including those to Nallad).

If any of you EVER need song lyrics, for that matter, just ask.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

VanimaEdhel:

Yes, please do send me a PM with the lyrics of the first song that Menelduliniel and Estelarion intend to sing. smilies/smile.gif In fact, how about if you PM me the lyrics to two different songs, so we can brainstorm a bit as to which song would be best to start off with?

The way I envision it, you'll post a song. Hinura can post a song as well. Other members of the company will also want to take actions of their own, and the ghosts will want a chance to respond, so it's best for you to post only one song per round of game play, then wait after your song ... to give everyone here a turn to be a part of the story at so crucial a time.

Gandalf the Grey

[Birdland]

TheLadyAerowen - I just noticed you were a fellow Ohioan. Me, also. (though I do not call myself a Buckeye.)

[ December 19, 2002: Message edited by: Birdland ]

[Susan Delgado]

Is this talk about songs about the contest Belin and I thought up?

[TheLadyAerowen]

*Was originally born in Austrailia* But I am now an Ohioian, yes, Birdland. I've also traveled to many different countries, that's why if you knew me, you'd notice I'll actually have different accents from time to time.

When I yell, I sound almost British sometimes. *laughs* But I picked up that accent from my grandparent's who live there. *realises she is rambling* So;

Birdland- what part of Ohio are you from? (*is from Franklin County, Columbus, Ohio*)

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Susan Delgado:

Wow! The song contest that you and Belin thought up ... (Excellent idea btw!) * bows to your ingenuity *

Why, if that ghostly song contest is held at precisely the same time as the travelling company of the living are standing outside the Castle singing ... that could make the plot just that much more intriguing! smilies/smile.gif

That would probably mean that Anna and Celumëomaryu would be inside the Castle in close proximity to the prize, rather than rushing to doors or windows to look out and see what all the fuss and ruckus is about outside, I would assume?

Tell you what, I can work this into my Calimiel post to set it up for you two ... and then, you and Belin may feel free to start your contest whenever you like ... no need to wait for the travelling company to come calling, you may start immediately, as you wish.

Will now go work on the Calimiel post.

Gandalf the Grey

[Birdland]

(Birdie stands on her roof and waves to TheLadyAerowen) Over here, in German Village!

[Susan Delgado]

Gandalf, I think I'll wait until Belin returns. She hasn't actually told me where she is at the moment, but I suspect she has locked the door to the Downs (metaphorically speaking, of course); it's finals week and she's extremely busy.
Tomorrow's the last day, though, so I think she'll be back probably Saturday.

Of course, I could be wrong and she's just decided she doesn't like us anymore. smilies/smile.gif

[Mithadan]

Done. Check your PMs Gandalf.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Bethberry:

When the RPG thread opens back up and after I have posted to it in my most recent SAVE post ... will you please change the position of your most recent post to Nardol by saving it to WordPerfect, deleting the post, and then reposting it after mine? Thanks for helping the story flow in a more logical chronological order.

Varda:

After you see my post, you will probably want to delete your most recent post entirely and put up a brand new one to replace it. Thanks for your cooperation.

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[Bêthberry]

Of course, Gandalf. I have to leave the house by 5 but will try to keep an eye out for the reopening.

Bethberry

EDIT at 4:13ish: I have just read your post from 2:14, Gandalf. It seems to me to fit well after my 12:49 post, but I don't know what your 12:21 post will be. I have kept my 12:49 post where it is but also made a SAVE should you still want me to move it.

This feels like a game of musical chairs. I even have my a CD playing on my computer. smilies/smile.gif

[ December 20, 2002: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Bethberry:

Actually, I'm just going to go ahead and delete that other saved post, because of certain logistical things that have now made its timing obsolete.

I'd still prefer it if you would move your post, because to my mind, it would be out of character for Gandalf to go thundering "ENOUGH" over Bethberry's gentle words to Nardol ... as well, I feel your words to him would carry more power coming at the end.

Gandalf the Grey

[ December 20, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[tangerine]

Gandalf: will you be needing any lyrics from me? I just recently regained my link to my source of Gaelic lyrics, so I can send you some if you want. Also, I was wondering I was wondering if I will nedd to know the same songs as VanimaEdhel later on.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

tangerine:

Yes, thanks, please send me lyrics from two different songs, if you wish. smilies/smile.gif I'm intrigued to see what sort of Gaelic lyrics you've got. As for your needing to know the same songs as VanimaEdhel later on, that's certainly something that you and Vanima can work together and collaborate on if you two would like.

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[*Varda*]

Well, Poppy is certainly daunted by the prospect of taking all this gold into CM, but it'll start to show more later.

Ok, well now I have to sleep.

~Varda

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Bethberry and Varda:

Many thanks for rearranging and rewriting your posts, respectively. * bows * I continue to be impressed by your contributions, as well as everyone else's, to this story-adventure.

All:

While I'd originally planned to fast-forward the company to the Castle for the sake of allowing the ghost characters portrayed by Belin, Birdland, Susan Delgado, and The Fifth to get in on some action, I now am receiving indications from Belin, Birdland, and Susan Delgado that they would like to start some ghostly activity of their own before the arrival of the company.

I'm referring in particular to the singing contest between Anna and Celumëomaryu, and now to the meeting between The Butler and his cronies. (Birdland wants me to write the actual scene with The Butler.) Both of these subplots should get started within the next day or two, to the best of my knowledge.

I hope it's okay with everyone that since the castle ghosts have spent so much time patiently watching and waiting in the background for the rest of us, that those of us in the living company travelling to meet them will now return the same courtesy, and allow the ghosts to introduce a story subplot or two of their own, while we wait a little bit for them to creatively do their own thing the way we have.

NOTE: When I say, "wait" ... what I mean is, living characters are still most welcome to post, it's just that we'll likely want to hold off our arrival at the Castle for just a little bit.

Our patience in this matter will surely be rewarded by an overall plot which is richer and deeper, and that should allow for more meaningful interaction between living and ghostly characters when the two groups come face to face.

All of what I've written above is based on my perception of what the majority of castle ghosts would like to happen. If any of these castle ghosts has an alternative viewpoint or suggestion, please feel welcome to post it or send a PM. I'm quite open to being flexible when it comes to how speedily we reach Castle Maladil, and believe I should give your ghostly opinions more "weight" at this time based on your long "wait". smilies/smile.gif

Again, living characters are still quite welcome to post, meanwhile. And also, please feel welcome to post in the Discussion thread or send me PMs about any plot suggestions you may have.

At your Service,

Gandalf the Grey

[ December 20, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Expected Travel Dates / Time Away from the Computer:

Depart: December 21
Return By: January 2 (perhaps earlier)

Meanwhile, I'll be staying for certain with at least two sets of relatives.

1) One set of relatives has a computer that I can borrow on a time-shared basis. My hours are typically at night, but with holiday visiting, it's hard to plan.

2) When I spend Christmas night (12/25 - 12/26) at my other set of relatives, the unspoken rule is that no one touches the computer. "When thou be a guest in my dwelling, thou shalt visit with me and my kin, and not visit my computer!"

3) If I spend any time at a third relative's house, there's no computer whatsoever.

Thus, computer access will be available, but sporadic.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,

Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

I will be gone 12/25 through 1/1 with limited ability to post. Bird and Pio, could you carry my character?

sharon

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

I'm going to be gone too, for travelling choir etc. I'm going to be gone from Dec. 26th to Dec. 31st.

I may be able to post once or twice, but I'm not sure.

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Aylwen

[TheLadyAerowen]

Everyone is leaving me *sob* The only day I won't be here is Christmas day. Though, I wish I could go back to the Florida Keys..

[piosenniel]

Sharon - I'll carry Andreth - Email me please about what is going on in the young woman's head. smilies/wink.gif

[TheLadyAerowen]

Alearindu tilted her neck back and pulled gently on a chain, pulling out a pendant with a silver chain and base. The base was two slim leaves intertwined, and the jewels on it were of emerald, which matched the colour of Alearindu's eyes and went well with her copper hair. 'Aerowen's looks the same, except her stones are amethyst, which match her eyes and blonde hair, as well.'


Note: I found myself kinda..lost at how to describe that pendant, but yes, it is similar to Arwen's Pendant, if that helps at all. In fact, I think I might have just stole the base to it. *laughs*

[TheLadyAerowen]

Well my good friends, I am going to my *third* viewing of TTT. smilies/biggrin.gif You have to love friends who pay for your tickets to make you come...sometimes *winks* So, I'll most likely be gone the rest of the day. I hope you all have had the privledge of seeing TTT, if you haven't, I demand you see it ASAP. smilies/wink.gif See you all later!

~The Lady Aerowen

[Mithadan]

You were in the keys and you didn't stop by and visit? smilies/mad.gif

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Regarding Andreth's Book:

Please note that I've already rolled dice to determine how many pages exist in the book, as well as which rooms are described on which pages. I have also been putting together room descriptions behind the scenes with some help from all of the Castle Ghosts ... Therefore, if anyone (for example, Nardol or Bethberry) is asked to translate Andreth's book besides Gandalf, I ask the party or parties involved to please check with me through PMs so that you are able to provide appropriate information that does not conflict with mine.

Thanks,

Gandalf the Grey

[ December 23, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

Yes, I agree. I had already mentioned that to Pio when I discussed that with her. I knew you had given me the information about the number of pages and the number of deletions. I'm glad to hear the ghosts are working on the room descriptions.

I thought it would be alright to put out the general description of the volume, since we had already agreed upon that. And I wanted to get it out before the holiday, since I'll be leaving from 12/25-1/1 and Pio will carry my character.

Hope this is alright.

sharon

[ December 23, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[TheLadyAerowen]

You were in the keys and you didn't stop by and visit?

Yes, Mith, over Thanksgiving week. lol I was mostly in West. Was I supposed to visit you? smilies/wink.gif

TTT is as great as it was the first time. And what really bothered me that time, (I got into a little argument with someone over Estel meaning hope, he said it meant both trust and hope) was that in the movie, Arwen says something like, 'Estelion' for Trust, in the dream scene where she was touching the pendant. So, I go by books, he goes by movies..psh. *laughs* Ah well. I'm back. smilies/smile.gif

[Gandalf_theGrey]

sharon: yes, we're on the same wavelength exactly * nods agreement *

All:

Some Important Guidelines to Keep in Mind for Castle Exploration

When your character is in the Castle, you will need to tell me which direction you are going (West, East, North, or South) and I'll tell you

a) what you see as far as doors in each wall

b) what you see / what if anything happens to you as you enter through a door into a new room (providing you can get through the door safely and successfully)

c) objects in the room, appearance of the room (hint: be observant, ask me questions through PMs about what you're seeing)

Of course, I'll describe what you see, including objects in the room. If there are any hidden objects or other secrets to be found, you'll need to look in the right place (and I would suggest carefully) before I can describe them to you.

As always, (repeating for emphasis) asking questions is helpful for making the most of your environment. PMs are best, for that way your character(s) can attempt their own private actions, and not disrupt the flow of the RPG.

I roll dice in RPG room explorations for such things as:

a) wandering monsters (who knows whether all the Castle Ghosts are sufficiently distracted such that they don't notice you, or whether some ghost happens to come upon
you)

b) traps (whether you find any and successfully disarm them or not, or whether you set off a trap and suffer the consequences)

c) whether attempts at lock-picking are successful

d) whether attempts are successful to locate a secret object / panel / etc.

Another Hint: you'll want a light source in the castle at night for safety reasons, but as I've foreshadowed, Gandalf will try to discourage torches (of course your characters can try sneaking them in if they insist). Remember that carrying a light source carries risks as well as advantages.

As well, Castle Ghosts (as portrayed by Belin, Birdland, Susan Delgado, The Fifth, and myself) might come upon you without the need for rolling dice ... HOWEVER, there are some actions that the ghosts may wish to take, for which I will need to roll dice to determine how successful the intended action of the ghost(s) is.

Further guidelines posted as needed.

Gandalf the Grey

[ December 23, 2002: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[piosenniel]

My cable modem is down (have begged the use of my friend's computer for this) - will not be back on line until probably this weekend.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Since Pio who is my back-up is gone, my character will also be dead in the water till she returns. (I mean that figuratively, not literally. I hope there are no more Orc attacks!)

sharon

[piosenniel]

Cross your fingers - by some DOS magic, I am back on line until the next gremlin attacks me!

[Mithadan]

Gandalf, do you want the RPG thread closed for a few days until you get back?

[piosenniel]

Nardol

Olo has made the overture of friendship to your horse . . . he would be pleased should you allow him to work with him.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

All: MERRY CHRISTMAS! smilies/smile.gif

Mithadan:

Leaving the thread open will be fine. Many thanks for your asking, I very much appreciate all of your assistance. * bows good greetings *

piosenniel:

Glad you're back online!

~~~ Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

I'm here! Really! Well, I'm back in any case.

All: Merry Christmas!

Gandalf: When you reply to my PM, can you use the one with the lyrics to Nallal (I still have to adjust some technical things), as I can type the song in when Hinura, Menelduliniel, and Estelarion sing it, as we are not as far along and I have not missed as much as I thought I would.

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Sorry I haven't been posting much, I'm a last minute shopper and have been very busy lately. I'll try to post soon, at least before I leave for Michigan.

I got a white Christmas! Actually, snow/sleet..but it was white...kinda. I also wanted to remind you guys that I'll be gone from the 27th to the 31st. Just making sure.

Merry Christmas!
Aylwen

[TheLadyAerowen]

Happy..Beleated Christmas! *laughs*

I'm back, too. lol After one day..but I'm sure you all missed me smilies/wink.gif

Birdland- I went shopping at City Center Mall on the 24th, and I also decided to drive through German Villiage since I was in the area. There are some pretty nice houses with interesting styles there. smilies/smile.gif

[Belin]

My lyrics are shamelessly plundered (and slightly altered) from Loreena McKennitt's "Courtyard Lullaby," partly in celebration of this news (http://www.quinlanroad.com/news.html), which is a big deal to anyone who knows why she hasn't had a cd in years. smilies/smile.gif

So I've finally started the contest, and am awaiting a roll of the dice.

--Belin Ibaimendi

[Birdland]

...and I also decided to drive through German Villiage since I was in the area. There are some pretty nice houses with interesting styles there.
Areowyn - smilies/biggrin.gif Yes, unfortunately, I couldn't afford "interesting". But I can enjoy the park, and the magnificant Book Loft book store.

Keep up the good writing, folks. And be careful with those "rod" thingees! Happy New Year to you all.

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

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Vanima Edhel:

As we've discussed in PMs, I really like the new song you came up with, Celaid Myrn, which we'll use instead of Nallal. Thanks again for all your help with finding and translating songs! smilies/smile.gif

tangerine:

You deserve the same gratitude and thanks as Vanima Edhel, for your work also behind the scenes in finding and translating masterful minstrel tunes! smilies/smile.gif

sharon, Aylwen Dreamsong, the Lady Aerowen:

Thanks for keeping us posted as to your whereabouts, fellow holiday travellers! * bows *

Belin:

Courtyard Lullaby is an awesome song, with lyrics both beautiful and unquestionably appropriate. Many thanks for posting it! smilies/smile.gif Fittingly (because if I were judging solely on merit I would have wanted to rate you extremely high as well), on a 20-sided die, you earned a natural 17 ... tough to beat. IMHO, it would be only fair to allow Susan's character Anna the chance to sing before I can fixedly determine the winner. If in fact your 17 stands as the top score, I wonder if you could still go ahead and post a second song, with the understanding that Celumëomaryu comes to full awareness that she's the winner?

Susan Delgado:

Your character still has an outside chance of winning the singing contest. I trust Anna will take that chance rather than concede, and I look forward to enjoying your song. * bow of anticipation *

Birdland:

Happy New Year to you, too! smilies/smile.gif I've sent you a PM, my friend.

piosenniel:

Whence comes the song you and Birdie sing in your most recent post? That's very entertaining as well. smilies/smile.gif

~~ Gandalf the Grey

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

[VanimaEdhel]

Gandalf: As I was really horribly stupid, I did not keep a copy of my own translation for myself. If you want me to type it, do you think that you could send it to me? In keeping with the spirit of the Elvish: Hannon le (Thank you)!

All: Happy New Year! I was watching my Extended Version DVD at midnight and I saw The Two Towers this morning at the first showing at my local theater! I hope you all had a similarly joyous New Year's experience!

[Susan Delgado]

Of course, I posted the beginning of the contest at a time when I was home and had a chance to plunder my own musical stores. I did not anticipate the time it would take Belin to post and am not home now, so if I don't decide to feel poetical and write one myself, you'll all have to wait.

Belin, thanks for that link to QR. Very good news it contained.

edit: Did I fool anyone into thinking that I wrote that song? smilies/smile.gif

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Susan Delgado:

A brave attempt at song on the part of Anna, a poignant attempt, a worthy attempt ... however, I rolled but a 13 on a 20-sided die. * bows regretfully * I do very much thank you for your effort, and have enjoyed the song you chose.

..... Thus, be it known that Celumëomaryu is the winner and may claim the prize. * bows acknowledgement of victory *

Refereeingly yours,

Gandalf the Grey

[Susan Delgado]

Blast.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Belin:

Update: Now that there are posts up for Calimiel, Kenelm, and Anna, it's no longer necessary for you to post another song for Celumëomaryu unless you want to, of course, in which case, you're welcome. * nods *

The Fifth and Susan Delgado:

Excellent suspenseful posts! I daresay Alfred Hitchcock, master of suspense, would be pleased. smilies/smile.gif

"Good eeeeeeeevvvvvvvvening." (Hitchcock reference 1)

* bows as "Music to be Murdered By" plays in the background * (Hitchcock reference 2)

Now the only question that remains is, will the Butler do it?

Gandalf the Grey

[piosenniel]

"Wraggle Taggle Gypsies" is #200 from the Child Ballads collection - The English and Scottish Popular Ballads (1882-1898),

[VanimaEdhel]

Thank you, Gandalf!

That last post was just to establish that the singing program has changed. And I have no clue who wrote "Night Lights". I just found it on a page of inspirational lyrics.

[Mithadan]

Buried under here. I will post tomorrow.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Mithadan:

Well worth the wait. smilies/smile.gif

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

While I'm happy with everybody's story contributions and everybody participating here deserves a compliment, I'd like to single out two in particular for this post:

piosenniel:

Your posts are always so consistently grand at exhibiting excellent quality that perhaps they get taken for granted! Vive la vivid sensory description! (And I did like that song, "Wraggle Taggle Gypsies.") smilies/smile.gif

Vanima Edhel:

Your post of January 2nd was IMHO, your best post ever. The dialog was the strongest its ever been, in terms of moving the plot meaningfully forward according to the theme of the story. smilies/smile.gif * bows *

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[piosenniel]

Thanks, Gandalf!

As to my most recent post - Bird said that I might carry her character for the remainder of the story.

[Susan Delgado]

What's happened to Birdie?

[piosenniel]

Bird is being held captive by the wraiths of Home Improvement and is battling them with paint, plaster, hammer, and nail!

[VanimaEdhel]

Your post of January 2nd was IMHO, your best post ever. The dialog was the strongest its ever been, in terms of moving the plot meaningfully forward according to the theme of the story. * bows *

*Mouth opens and closes in surprise* Wow...

I would have posted today, but there is no way that my characters could enhance the action as of now. They would, of course, be worried about Nardol, but they would probably do nothing to help with his discomfort.

[Susan Delgado]

Belin, Anna is making a move toward Celumëomaryu's prisoner. What are you going to do about it?

[Belin]

Well, first of all I'll have to go back and rewrite the post I've been working on to accomodate the fact that you sent Celumëomaryu away.

Second of all, if Anna is silly enough to make the same mistake that Calimiel did with Calimiel still standing there, Celumëomaryu is going to laugh at her.

--Belin Ibaimendi

[Susan Delgado]

What mistake? Being locked in the cell? That's no problem. They have food and someone will be along to unlock them soon.

edit: How would Celumëomaryu have solved the problem of being locked in the cell?

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Someone will be along to unlock them soon? Or, someone will be along to make sure they don't get unlocked? Hmmmmmmmm ...

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Compliment Post:

This past Saturday, I had a couple of dinner guests over for an Iroquois theme meal of fried catfish, corn and string bean succotash sweetened with maple, pumpkin soup with onions and red and black pepper, fry bread, and tea. (Being a historical re-enactor with a trace of Seneca blood, I enjoy researching such foods.)

On an earlier visit, I made them take an LotR personality test, so I shall from hereon refer to my friends as Man of Gondor and Lady of Rohan, as befits them. The Man of Gondor I'd describe as a moderate Tolkien fan who read the books an Age ago and is interested in seeing TTT but somehow hasn't gotten to the theater yet. The Lady of Rohan appears mildly interested in Tolkien, and open to enjoying fantasy.

During the course of the evening, they had me dress up in the Hobbit garb I'd worn to TTT and were duly impressed when I showed them the One Ring. We also ended up singing snippets of Doctor Demento songs, everything from the backwards version of Yoda to Transfusions. Being avid readers, the Man of Gondor snatched a political news magazine from the coffee table to leaf through while the Lady of Rohan grabbed up my copy of the book "Confessions of a Birdwatcher" to skim through, and insatiably curious as to what species of birds were mentioned therein, she had to list some for us all to hear. (To these people, reading together is a sociable endeavor!)

Thus, you have a better understanding of your fan club. smilies/smile.gif

For I showed my two guests bits and pieces of Page 6 of the Castle Maladil RPG, and they absolutely loved it! They didn't have time to read every post, so they only noticed a couple of people's work in particular, besides my own.

Firstly, they absolutely loved the character of Birdland as portrayed by piosenniel who is currently carrying that character! They also really got into the Wraggle Taggle Gypsy song.

Secondly, they read with rapt attention, half aloud at times, Susan Delgado's post where Anna loses the singing contest and resigns herself to her fate.

Am sure that if they'd had more time, they would have enjoyed the combination of everyone else's efforts as well. * bows *

Just wanted to let everyone know that even people who live in a realm far distant from the Barrow Downs very much appreciate all the time, talent, creativity, and hard work that's gone into the group-writing of Castle Maladil RPG. People are reading and enjoying your words! Great job, everyone. smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

[Susan Delgado]

Makes me feel all squishy inside smilies/smile.gif

[Belin]

Squishy? You've got to stop living in your former body, my dear. It seems to be getting a bit ripe. smilies/wink.gif

Ahem, what I mean to say is, congratulations on the compliments, the both of you, may you recieve many more. smilies/smile.gif

someone will be along to unlock them soon.

....and you call Celumëomaryu "very trusting"? As a sensible (well, not sensible so much as paranoid) ghost, she'd much rather have the door open before she enters the cage.

--Belin Ibaimendi

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Belin ]

[Susan Delgado]

Oh, good point! In that case, I feel...It makes me feel very grounded smilies/smile.gif

Well, I did say that Anna prefers the option that she's being very stupid....

[piosenniel]

Please note:

Volondil is on the mend. Not back among the dangerous warriors of the world, but he's at least on his feet, and walking.

[Susan Delgado]

Fear not, fellow Ghosts. It's all a part of the plan, and Belin and I have discussed extensively. Are still doing so, in fact.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

"The best laid plans of Elves, Men and Ghosts go oft awry."

Susan Delgado:

The good news is, I rolled a natural 19, meaning that Anna has discovered the switch she was looking for.

However, I then rolled a natural 20, meaning that the trap connected to the switch has been set off. Please roll a 6-sided die as a saving throw (or simply, name a number from 1 to 6) ... and I'll tell you what, if anything, happens to Anna. Please note that I've randomly assigned meaning to each of the digits 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, so it's not as if you're aiming for a "high" number or a "low" number, any digit may be as good or bad as any other, regardless of numerical value.

Poor Calimiel, she missed her saving throw, and will suffer the consequences of the trap.

All:

Am planning on posting as Gandalf soon, (most probably tonight), to answer those questions that the company has as best I can ... after which, we'll take to the road once more.

Meanwhile, back at the dungeon, am planning on posting as Maladil when the time is right, which, again, should be very soon now.

Good luck, Susan.

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[Belin]

May I request that Susan edit her post so that it doesn't read as if Celumëomaryu had left the room? She's not going anywhere.

--Belin Ibaimendi

[Susan Delgado]

Already done, Belin.

I rolled a 2, Gandalf.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

Please see my private message. Thank you.

Andreth

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Susan Delgado:

Fitting. As luck would have it, Calimiel also rolled a 2. Looks like Anna and Calimiel will be sharing the same fate together then. Celumëomaryu will be pleased, as will Maladil. The Butler might not be much of a happy camper though, depending on how all this plays out.

Andreth:

Your PM duly received and answered. Happy to help. * bows *

All:

I should probably stress that even after I post as Gandalf and we get back on the road, it would * REALLY * not be a good idea for the company to show up at Castle Maladil exactly at this precise moment. To my reckoning, it's morning now at the Castle as well as around the company's breakfast fireside ... I'd like to say that the rest of the journey will take one more night's camping, and then the evening after is when the company will come within sight of Castle Maladil. That will allow for further healing for Volondil and Poppy, for further musical preparation by Hinura, Estelarion and Menelduliniel, and for other preparations, one of which will be made public shortly. (though not in Gandalf's post)

Thanks to all for helping coordinate the story events so that they proceed according to a logical timeframe in a way that balances the crucially urgent events now befalling at Laurëondo! smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Susan Delgado]

So what happened to us? Did we die?

edit: Well, that's just great.

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Child of the 7th Age:

My bet is that you'll want to place your save after the save I've just done ..... I still have to tie up some loose ends before proceeding to what we discussed via PM!

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[Susan Delgado]

Gandalf, is there some way out of this...thing, Jello Cube? whatever it is, that I have to discover, or is this it? Time to say, nice playing with everybody?

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Susan Delgado:

Where there's life, there's hope. smilies/smile.gif

Please feel free to PM me if you wish.

* bows *

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

On a rare occasion for this week, I am here. I already spoke to Gandalf, but I thought that I should warn all of you that, as I have midterms this week (I had my first the day before yesterday), my time on here will me more limited than my already-limited online time, as my time will be spent between studying and nervous breakdowns most of the time. If you wish to manipulate my characters in some way that would be in fashion with what they would actually do, then by all means, go ahead!

[*Varda*]

I too might have limited posting over the next few weeks, since I have exams very close on the horizon and I need to study like crazy (although I'm sure I'll find myself coming online anyway)

Just a warning, in case I can't.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Aylwen Dreamsong:

Good, strong post you've put up for Aislan ... also, congrats on running an RPG in your own right in Rohan! ("Search for the Book") smilies/smile.gif

theLadyAerowen:

Also a good, strong post from you for Alearindu! That behind-the-scenes chat we had with all the dice-rolling to determine the outcome of the ranger's scouting paid off well. Here's to our next upcoming session for the morrow's scouting mission. smilies/smile.gif

Belin:

Going back a few days, (but then, this shows the staying-power of your words, that even now they come to my mind sometimes as I'm going about my day) ... loved the post containing Celumëomaryu's "wavering music" with your rendition of its accompanying cruelly-twisted lyrics! smilies/smile.gif

Consistently strong posts of course from the likes of Child of the 7th Age and Bethberry. Mithadan's too are always a treat. smilies/smile.gif

And Varda, ... fine writing work on your part to keep the story moving on its course ... here's wishing you and VanimaEdhel the best in your studies, and a speedy return as your schedule allows. smilies/smile.gif

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[tangerine]

Mis' amuigh air luing a' seòladh
'S mi gun dòigh air tighinn gu
baile...

In case anyone's wondering, the translation to this is:
I am out sailing on the great ship
with no way to return home.
It's just a couple of lines from A Mhòrag 's na hò ro gheallaidh from here. (http://www.maryjanelamond.com/audio/audio.html)

[Mithadan]

I will be away on business Thursday and Friday. I will try and post before I go. I may not be on this weekend either though I will try to pop in.

[TheLadyAerowen]

Thank you Gandalf! smilies/smile.gif I look forward to talking to you in a few. But I'm kinda straying away from mIRC...And I've been busy-ish the last few days, but I should be back to regular posting soon. My sister has sports every Tuesday and Thursday or something and I have a few try-outs this week. But I should be totally free on the weekends.


~The Lady Aerowen

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: TheLadyAerowen ]

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

I thank you as well, Gandalf. I too have two long weeks of mid-terms, and I also have concerts and sports competitions all January and February. I may be a bit busy, but I'll still post as often as I can for Aislan. smilies/biggrin.gif

Aylwen

[*Varda*]

Ok, I may be even busier over the next few days, seeing as the other computer completely screwed up and I'm going to have to re-install practically everything. (Or get my brother to)

So I'll just be online when I can get a chance, really.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Quick Note while I'm Cooking Dinner:

The company will camp out one more night, and then have one more day's journey to reach the Castle ... they're not arriving at the Castle "tonight" game time, but "tomorrow night"

... This is important, because probably (hint hint) something is going to happen meanwhile on the night before the group reaches the Castle. (No worries, not any sort of large disaster or anything.)

Thanks,

Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

Okey-dokey, Smokey! Will be prepared! smilies/wink.gif

Question: when exactly should Menelduliniel and Estelarion begin their serenade? When we get nearer to the castle, I assume, but should they begin first thing tomorrow, or will Gandalf give them a cue of some sort when they are ready? I am, as always, yours to command, Gandalf! (EDIT: Oh, by "tomorrow" I mean game time, of course...)

Oh: after tomorrow, exams are all over. (EDIT: Now, by tomorrow I mean real life time...) I will be able to breath again (meanwhile, I have been on here more than I usually am when I have normal school during these exams...)!

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Regarding the Newcomer to Camp:

As piosenniel has picked up on, the newcomer is the sole survivor from Castle Maladil who was let free. Since I'm going to be out of the apartment until about 10:00 pm Eastern, I'd better provide a smattering of information meanwhile.

The man's name is Mat Rushlight, and he's a Breelander. Edwina, his wife, and Linea, his daughter, are the ones who have been taken over by the two female ghosts (Mat wouldn't know the names of the ghosts.) The prisoners whom Mat Rushlight left dead in the dungeon were named Wayne, Wes, and Brooke.

Vanima Edhel:

"Smokey" ? Why, nobody's called me Smokey since back in the day when I used to frequent an X-Files chat room called Spooky's, when my name was Cigarette-Smoking Man! Ah, memories. smilies/smile.gif

I'll let you know when it's time for Menelduliniel and Estelarion and Hinura to start their serenade.

At your Service,

Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

Oh, no! This man is a Breelander. He's one of Andreth's neighbors.

[Susan Delgado]

Just how exactly are you non-corporeal creatures planning to force Anna and Calimiel back into the cell? Even if you can become solid enough to speak aloud or hold (throw) objects, you have nowhere near the physical strength of a genuine flesh-and-bone creature, even a weak and starved one. If you're thinking of killing us rather than let us remain free, that would hardly accomplish your goal of teaching us a lesson, would it? As far as I'm concerned, after we give the dead Men a proper burial (I and Anna have no substantive objections to that) we could just walk out of the Castle, walk right through the front gate and meet the living folk as they arrive. The Ghosts can't hold the doors closed strongly enough to prevent us from simply pulling them open, and even if there are any locking doors on the lower floors (which I doubt), who has the keys? Not Celumeomaryu, I'm guessing. She has only the Dungeon keys, doesn't she?

[Mithadan]

I've filled in my "save" after Bethberry's watery healing of Nardol. He will rejoin the group tomorrow...and we shall see what he's like. Old habits may die hard.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Child of the 7th Age:

It's a small world, after all.

Susan Delgado:

Good questions:

1) Just how exactly are you non-corporeal creatures planning to force Anna and Calimiel back into the cell?

MY REPLY:

There are ways.

2) Even if you can become solid enough to speak aloud or hold (throw) objects, you have nowhere near the physical strength of a genuine flesh-and-bone creature, even a weak and starved one.

MY REPLY:

If you wish, I'll send you via PM the website URL to an article with information on a particular case of poltergeist activity so graphically violent and horrible that I've decided against posting it on the public thread.

3) If you're thinking of killing us rather than let us remain free, that would hardly accomplish your goal of teaching us a lesson, would it?

MY REPLY:

Good point ... of course, Maladil's lucidity waxes and wanes according to his current temper.

4) As far as I'm concerned, after we give the dead Men a proper burial (I and Anna have no substantive objections to that) we could just walk out of the Castle, walk right through the front gate and meet the living folk as they arrive.

MY REPLY:

Fascinating plan. Should Calimiel and Anna have such an opportunity, it will be intriguing to see the results of your attempt. I can tell you right now that despite their new physical bodies, their spirits remain bound by Maladil's curse. However, if Anna and Calimiel manage to walk out as far as they are able to the boundaries of the Castle grounds, it is indeed possible for them to meet with the living folk as they arrive.

5) The Ghosts can't hold the doors closed strongly enough to prevent us from simply pulling them open, ...

MY REPLY:

Debatable. (See Poltergeist website mentioned above.)

6) And even if there are any locking doors on the lower floors (which I doubt), who has the keys? Not Celumeomaryu, I'm guessing. She has only the Dungeon keys, doesn't she?

MY REPLY:

The Butler normally carries quite a prodigious set of jangly keys, meaning that certainly there are plenty of lockable doors within the Castle ... though this topic is more a matter for a PM rather than a public discussion post. smilies/smile.gif

Mithadan:

Welcome back.

* bows *

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[Birdland]

If you wish, I'll send you via PM the website URL to an article with information on a particular case of poltergeist activity so graphically violent and horrible that I've decided against posting it on the public thread.
Oooooooh! I gotta Google that one!

[ January 20, 2003: Message edited by: Birdland ]

[VanimaEdhel]

If you wish, I'll send you via PM the website URL to an article with information on a particular case of poltergeist activity so graphically violent and horrible that I've decided against posting it on the public thread.

Why doesn't anyone carry around sweetgrass or smoky quartz anymore? Actually, even though I'm not Christian, Holy Water actually does work as well, I'll admit to that.

Anyway: I take it that our Breelander friend won't stay? Or will he have guilt-trip of some sort and accompany us? And what are the rods for? I suppose I'll find out in due time...

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Birdland:

Look who's haunting this thread? Good to see you. smilies/smile.gif

VanimaEdhel:

1) I take it that our Breelander friend won't stay?

MY REPLY:

He certainly does not intend to stay. Mat Rushlight simply wants to get back to Bree as fast as he can, while the getting's good.

2) Or will he have guilt-trip of some sort and accompany us?

MY REPLY:

He certainly does not intend to stay. Mat Rushlight simply wants to get back to Bree as fast as he can, while the getting's good. ... * slight grin *

3) And what are the rods for? I suppose I'll find out in due time...

MY REPLY:

smilies/smile.gif

Gandalf the Grey

[Gandalf_theGrey]

CASTLE MALADIL INSPIRATION:

Below is a picture of the French Castle at Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown, New York. This picture was taken in the year 1874. Imagine the outside as being made of golden granite.

http://newdeal.feri.org/images/c27b.gif

There are of course some differences with the layout of Castle Maladil, ... (most particularly Laurëondo's walls), ... and its grounds.

[Susan Delgado]

Hey, that's nearly exactly how I've pictured it!

[VanimaEdhel]

Again: okey-dokey, Smokey!

I can live with that picture! Looks like a house not too far from me, I think...well: it looks familiar to me in any case. Maybe I was there in a past life, who knows... Anyway: the picture works for me.

[Bêthberry]

My post today sets up Bethberry's departure from the game. One last post on the morrow (game time)will see her too ill to continue to the final stages of the game's conclusion.

Her departure leaves no great gaping holes in plot or plans, nothing which the rest of you will have to handle.

I have too much to attend to, and cannot give the game its due, particularly as it comes to its exciting conclusion. I will watch as the curse is lifted--if lifted it shall be.

*curtsies respectfully to all*

Bethberry

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Bethberry:

Good luck wherever your path leads you. * bows *

Regarding game time, keep in mind that now that the company has arrived and is camped within easy walking distance of Castle Maladil, the plan all along has been to wait until nightfall and then go to the Castle after the evening meal. Once Gandalf and Holly return from their mapping expedition, dinner is served, and the sun has set, the final stages of the game's conclusion will at that time be set in motion.

Waiting until the morrow is not feasible according to what's transpired already within the Castle Maladil RPG thread.

One last post on the morrow (game time)will see her too ill to continue to the final stages of the game's conclusion.
Her departure leaves no great gaping holes in plot or plans, nothing which the rest of you will have to handle.

Susan Delgado:

Small note regarding your most recent post ... Based on how you described Anna's attempt to again open the secret door, it's quite all right as written (especially based on the background information imparted to you in one of our collaborative chats!) ... If, however, Anna or anyone else tries to take more vigorous measures to open that door, dice rolls might be required to see what, if anything, happens to the door and what, if anything, happens to the person(s) trying to open it. smilies/smile.gif

Also, glad you and VanimaEdhel like the French Castle pic.

At your Service,

Gandalf the Grey

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Clearing Up Some Confusion Regarding the Planned Strategic Timeline of Events Connected with the Company's Arrival at Castle Maladil

... followed by individual or group personal notes to Belin Ibaimendi, Susan Delgado, theLadyAerowen, The-Fifth and piosenniel ... and a general note to those not receiving a personal note this time around (wherein I'll end up making a personal comment to Aylwen Dreamsong, after all!) smilies/smile.gif

Now on to the main topic of this post:

There seems to be some confusion on the part of more than one person, as to the time of day or night when the company will be physically showing up on the Castle's doorstep.

To answer this question definitively, I've scrolled back through the RPG and would like to quote from a post I made on January 9, 2003 at 8:28 p.m.:

* Gandalf then addressed the entire company. * Our arrival at Castle Maladil should be tomorrow evening. If we arrive during the afternoon, we will set up camp off the main road, within sight of the side road leading to the Castle, and await nightfall.

After sundown, we shall approach the Castle ... the bards, including Hinura, Estelarion, and Menelduliniel wielding harp or flute, others carrying candles or lanterns as sources of light. The music of the bards shall be light to the ear, and I am well pleased at all the practicing and song preparation I've heard so far. You work well together! Hinura, I look forward to hearing Bog a'Lochain. And Meneli and Estelarion, already your choice of song resonates with new notes of hope ... * Gandalf checked himself before saying "to those in exile," preferring to leave the sentence incomplete. *

Please no torches, as torches too often bring to mind images of brigands and marauders. Poppy shall carry the trust of Elrond's gold, and have no light source of her own.

The three rods you've been given are for you to hold in readiness, for their light is fleeting.

piosenniel:

From your post, it appears that Holly has forgotten the above plan to approach the Castle at night. However, please keep your post as is ... there's no need to edit, as you've actually given me something to work with as far as character interaction goes ... Gandalf can remind Holly that they won't be approaching the Castle "on the morrow" but rather, "this very night!" Also, I like how you've failed to have Holly perceive Kenelm's song. Very good, for indeed it would be very iffy as to whether she would be attuned to picking up ghostly apparitions, locutions, sounds, feelings, or presentiments on her own. Indeed, I might likely end up rolling dice to determine what, if anything, Holly is able to hear of Kenelm's harp notes, melody, and the words of his song. I can then describe in my post what effect Kenelm's song has on Holly.

Gandalf as a Maia is of course far likelier to notice Kenelm's song, especially as he's been straining his concentration towards the Castle in the hopes of observing just such phenomena.

Belin Ibaimendi, Susan Delgado, theLadyAerowen, The-Fifth:

You know, those behind-the-scene chats and/or dice-rolling sessions we've had have proved tremendously productive when it comes to the resulting rich posts that you've all written! Awesome work, gang. smilies/smile.gif

All Else:

If your character has not had a personal chance to shine yet ... no worries, you will. Please feel welcome at any time to send me a PM if you wish to inquire about the level of your upcoming involvement, and/or to let me know what sorts of actions you're interested in taking to give yourself a bigger role in the story. Aylwen Dreamsong for example, ... if you're wondering what exciting or unusual or geared towards you and the contributions you can make as a valuable individual, connected with you personally as hostler, can possibly happen to you in the stables of Laurëondo ... methinks you're going to be very pleasantly surprised with what I've been planning for you!

There will definitely be enough action to go around for everybody, and everyone has an important role to play ... and in fact, I'm working, visibly or invisibly, to tailor characters and situations towards each member of the company so that all can be included to the degree and level that each one wishes.

Finally, somewhere around Christmas I put up a post in the Discussion thread concerning the kinds of questions your characters may want to ask, and the sorts of conditions which require dice-rolling once we get to the Castle. It might be a good idea to go back and take a look at that post again, as a review.

At your Service,

Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

Please check your pms.

Andreth

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Andreth:

Your PM happily received ... am currently heating up leftover turnip and leeks soup, and will work on a reply during dinner! smilies/smile.gif

At your Service,

Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

leftover turnip and leeks soup

Very hobbity! But no fish? I await your response.

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

methinks you're going to be very pleasantly surprised with what I've been planning for you!

The key words there are pleasantly surprised...I hope smilies/smile.gif.

I was wondering what sort of things Aislan would encounter in the stately stables!

Aylwen

[The Fifth]

Suggested by a dear friend, here is a translation of Kenelm's song, from Quenya:

Beyond the lake,
rises an elven star.
The first to rise,
the first to fall.

Beyond bright seas,
waters within sand,
the darkness runs,
and shadows flee.
Between two trees,
the Sun and the Moon,
an elven star
rises.

[VanimaEdhel]

Just tell me when to start singing, Gandalf!

And: I may send you a few Private Messages to you too, Gandalf, as I have never played any Role-Playing Games that involved dice-rolling. I may have many, many, many questions (a ridiculous amount, probably).

The rules are on page 4 if you guys don't want to go searching around. They are about halfway down the page in a fairly long post.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Can the living see and talk freely with the ghosts?

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Child of the 7th Age:

... (and please take note, piosenniel, because I'm going to use Kenelm's most recent song as an example to outline how much you can hear of Kenelm's speech and song.)

Regarding your question, can the living see and talk freely with the dead ... excellent question.

The extent to which a living character can see and talk freely with the dead depends on the individual character. For example, Elves will be more perceptive / receptive than Men and Hobbits. Normally, Men and Hobbits will fare very poorly in trying to communicate with the ghosts.

I'm planning on combining dice rolling with the more flexible guideline of "what would make for a good, still believable, story?"

Therefore, I've been making allowance for Holly to hear * SOME * of Kenelm's words, but not all, as follows. Based on the circumstances ( ... ESPECIALLY Kenelm playing the harp !! ... ) I rolled dice, with the result that Holly can hear roughly 25% of Kenelm's words. Holly could at first only see Kenelm's harp, but can now faintly see him, somewhat, through the light of the moon.

In Kenelm's latest song, here are the lines that Holly can hear:

'Tall and green ...
Leaves full and fair, ...
their voices ring, ...
The glittering of light ...
cold autumn's glow. ...
Cold skies turn dark, ...
no more is the spring mirth. ...


[ January 29, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Dice Rolling Results for Ghostly Communication:

By rights, a character needs a 12 to be able to communicate at all. Those wielding a harp, however, are granted a bonus to make communication easier. (That's why Holly was able to communicate with Kenelm, due to Kenelm's harp.) Full Elves are granted an automatic 12 if they roll lower than 12. The higher the number, the better and stronger the communication skills.

LIVING COMPANY CHARACTERS:

1) Holly -- 11

2) Aislan -- 17 (You're quite gifted, as a Human!) smilies/smile.gif

3) Alearindu -- 6 (At least you're starting off paired with Aislan!)

4) Andreth -- 1 (Yes, just a 1! But never fear, your plot idea will still work just as we've discussed. Actually, this will only make the plot just that much more interesting! What we've spoken of in Private Messages still holds true, and will in fact work out wonderfully, though you've got a daunting challenge.)

5) Birdie -- 15

6) Estelarion -- 12

7) Hinura -- 11 (Plus you have a harp ... that gives you a bonus whereby you'll be able to communicate.)

8) Menelduliniel -- 18

9) Nardol -- 12

10) Olo -- 8

11) Poppy -- 18 (Now this is quite fortunate! You are one gifted Hobbit! smilies/smile.gif )

12) Volondil -- 3

13) As an Istari, Gandalf gets a 20 ... there can be a downside to this, as you may come to discover.

CASTLE GHOST CHARACTERS:

1) Anna can communicate perfectly with whomever she wishes = automatic 20.

2) Butler -- 20

3) Calimiel can communicate perfectly with whomever she wishes = automatic 20.

4) Celumëomaryu -- 16

5) Cirgon (Cook) -- 3

6) Daerohil (Stable Lad) -- 12 people / 20 horses

7) Guilin (Man-At-Arms) -- 12

8) Halblung (Man-At-Arms) -- 19

9) Kenelm -- 10 (Plus you have a harp, that gives you a bonus whereby you'll be able to communicate.)

10) Lasrain (Gardener) -- 13

11) Maladil -- 18

12) Tella (Cook) -- 17

13) Tiroedrath (Door-Warden) -- 12

[ February 02, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Vanima Edhel:

You may start singing now! smilies/smile.gif (And who is it with the harp again, Meneli? While Estelarion has the flute?)

tangerine:

Also ready for a song from you! smilies/smile.gif

The Fifth:

Awesome songs from Kenelm! smilies/smile.gif

Aylwen Dreamsong:

You've been given a clue in this thread as to what you'll encounter. smilies/smile.gif

Child of the 7th Age:

* smiles belatedly at the fish comment * smilies/smile.gif

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[TheLadyAerowen]

lol I've been a smidge busy lately, getting ready for my birthday (Even if it is a few weeks away! smilies/wink.gif) and remodeling a room. But I should be finishing up very soon, and it looks like we'll have some exciting scenarios coming up smilies/smile.gif

~The Lady Aerowen

Aylwen- check your PM's please. smilies/smile.gif

[VanimaEdhel]

No, Hinura offered to accompany the two. This is a really short post...

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Sorry for the sort of absence lately, midterms are done now though and the state championship done, so I have more time.

TheLadyAerowen and I have been pm-ing and we are working on a post for Aislan and Alearindu.

Daerohil (Stable Lad) -- 12 people / 20 horses

Does this mean Daerohil can communicate to the horses in some way? If so, there is no telling what he can do to the horses.... smilies/redface.gif smilies/biggrin.gif Aislan will have her work cut out for her.

Aylwen

[ February 02, 2003: Message edited by: Aylwen Dreamsong ]

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Aylwen Dreamsong:

Please check your PM's.

Also, yes, ... Daerohil can communicate to the horses. Should make things plenty interesting for Aislan! smilies/smile.gif

At your Service,

Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

Please excuse my tardiness in posting. I will hopefully remedy the situation tomorrow as soon as I get back from work (mid-day).

[Gandalf_theGrey]

MEGA-POST #1 is on its way after dinner tonight.

1) I've done some preliminary dice-rolling regarding which ghosts are coming closer to meet the company, attracted by the sparklers. How to react will likely be part of Mithrandir's answer to Menelduliniel's question, or if you've thought of an idea, please feel welcome to PM me about it so I can collaborate you into my post (and you can interact/respond in your own posts) with more depth.

2) Gandalf will take notice Andreth's strange plight. Fine suspenseful post, btw, Andreth! smilies/smile.gif * PLEASE NOTE: Nobody else in the company is going to be affected like Andreth is! *

MEGA-POST #2 will be posted after those who wish to respond to the events from Mega-post #1 have had a chance

3) Gandalf will hail Maladil and introduce Poppy as Ambassador.

..... um, trust me, this part won't be as easy as it sounds! * evil laugh *

MEGA-POST #3 will be posted after those who wish to respond to the events in Mega-post #2 have had a chance

4) How that mercurial horse Midnight will interact with Aislan we shall see, for things will get quite "dicey" ... this and related adventure will likely appear ... probably right after Maladil interacts with the company ... thus I may not address Midnight's actions immediately in my upcoming posts, but oh it will come up.

P.S. Nardol, you're going to be involved too as we've spoken of by PM, am not describing in depth here because of what's not public knowledge. smilies/smile.gif

P.P.S. By "Mega-Post" I mean, posts of vital importance containing/introducing key plot points ... I'm not necessarily referring to the length of a post ... as well, these "mega-posts" are likely going to be interspersed with other posts in between allowing for character action and interaction from all who wish to participate.

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

[TheLadyAerowen]

Misfourtune after misfourtune over here. lol All was well until my laptop decided to completely crash. (It's about time, but it was totally the wrong time) But, as Dreamsong has said, we're working on a post for Aislan and Alearindu. I'm sneaking on at school for like 40 minutes and visiting the library at least every other night. About a new computer-- I'm either ordering a Dell asap or getting an eMac on Valentine's Day. But either way, I'll be back up and running at my home soon. smilies/biggrin.gif

~The Lady Aerowen

[VanimaEdhel]

After I posted, I had the strongest urge to say, "Let's split up, gang!" smilies/tongue.gif

I know: that would be a stupid thought, but still...we all know that "Scooby-Doo" is a classic.

Quick question: those that have "12" as their ability to see the spirits would only see them as glimmers, mostly, yes (emphasis on "mostly", maybe, as it seems that everyone sees the spirits slightly differently)? That is how Estelarion perceived them in my post, in any event. I'm asking in here instead of in PM because the answer would aid anyone who had a "12"...

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

I know this is a strange request, but could you let the companions know when we get close to midnight? Perhaps make a comment in the story line?

I don't want to say it's a certain time, if you see it as something else.

Andreth

[Gandalf_theGrey]

TheLadyAerowen:

Sorry to hear about your technical difficulties, my friend! Here's hoping that you'll soon be rejoining us in full force.

VanimaEdhel:

As to your question, you've done a masterful job at answering it in general terms yourself. * bows * Will provide more precision as it becomes necessary!

One thing I should draw your attention to regarding your last post, Vanima ... the main part of the company is not inside Castle Maladil, but rather stands just at the border of the castle grounds. (Andreth is now just within the boundary of the castle grounds.) It is only Holly, Bird, Olo and Volondil who have just entered the Castle by the back way. And since the members of the company outside the front entrance can see the quite physically solid swords that at least three of the ghosts are wielding, my bet is that nobody's eager to enter the Castle right now with ten ghosts watching your every move.

Child of the 7th Age:

As a matter of fact, it's just after 9:45 at night by the Shire clocks.

piosenniel:

Roll for initiative --- Give me a number from 1-6.

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

Well, it was only one place that I said "in the castle", so that was easy enough to change!

[piosenniel]

I'll say '5'

So ..... Volondil and Holly, Olo and Bird just HAD to see what was behind Door #1, hmmmmmmmm?

Yes, Holly is inqusitive as well as acquisitive!

*please let it be the sports car and not the donkey!

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

[Susan Delgado]

What the heck is that thing??

[piosenniel]

Ok! Ok! I'll take the donkey!!!

Susan, I have no idea what it is, but it smells nasty and feels worse.

[Gandalf_theGrey]

tangerine:

Love your last post. Vividly, poignantly descriptive! smilies/smile.gif

... and Aylwen Dreamsong's

most recent post deserves the same kind of praise for its easy-flowing naturalness! smilies/smile.gif

Susan Delgado and piosenniel:

What is that thing hanging out in the smithy? It's one of Tolkien's own creatures ... please feel welcome to PM me for the answer! smilies/smile.gif

All:

Mega-Post Two is coming soon.

At your Service,

Gandalf the Grey

[ February 08, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[piosenniel]

GANDALF

See my post please. Volondil has taken a whack at the Mewlips - is he successful?

[Gandalf_theGrey]

MOVING ON AHEAD! smilies/smile.gif

Due to a combination of real life and other circumstances, I've allowed the RPG to coast the past several days.

Now, however, I am ready to get things rolling again ... currently, we're waiting for Poppy to enter the Castle through the front entrance and walk into the Great Hall to meet Maladil and present him with the sack of gold. If it comes to it, I'll take what steps may be necessary to see to it myself that this scene gets posted ... I am aware that Nardol is waiting to enter the Castle as well, but IMHO it would make more sense right now for Poppy to be the first one to take the initiative.

Meanwhile, Varda, please check your PM's.

Thanks for your patience, everyone! The action will begin again very soon.

* bows *

Gandalf the Grey

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Nice posts!

Will respond at greater length after dinner ... quick reminder note now to point out that as it's midnight story time (actually I had figured it to be more like 10:30 pm or so, but I can go with Andreth's midnight and amend my earlier post to this discussion thread about it being just around 10:00 pm) ...

However, the important reminder note is that with Andreth in ghost form, Holly, Bird, Olo and Volondil are not going to understand all her words to them, and vice versa!

I need to step away from the computer now, will be back with more details later tonight.

Gandalf the Grey

[Child of the 7th Age]

Andreth is scouting for Holly. She has gone in the first room on the back hall to the left. What does she see/experience?

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Child of the 7th Age:

Andreth finds herself in the Private Dining Room, which looks very much like so:

http://www.sonesta.com/supplementalImages/tuscany_castello/Castle_dining_room_2.jpg

Though of course, the room is dark, it being the midnight hour. 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.

Gandalf the Grey

[VanimaEdhel]

Aaaah...the sheer uselessness of Menelduliniel and Estelarion at this point. Sorry about their lack of aid, but the last post was to just keep them, well, alive in the RPG...I promise they will be of more use later (Menelduliniel especially, if all goes as well as I planned once I spoke to Gandalf). Sorry for my lack of real contribution at this moment! Just thought I owed you guys an apology...

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Aylwen Dreamsong:

Have just replied to your PM.

(Have also replied to Child of the 7th Age and Mithadan.)

... * sends good greetings to the three of you! *

VanimaEdhel:

Actually, your post is quite well done! smilies/smile.gif You've given me much to work with and build on. In part of my next post, I'm planning to address the questions and musings of Menelduliniel and Estelarion.

By following Mithrandir's lead and fleeing battle, Menelduliniel and Estelarion are indeed taking the best action ... in fact, the only action possible ... if they are ever to have a chance to lift the curse! Menelduliniel and Estelarion have already accomplished the unthinkable ... they've successfully gotten past Maladil's guards.

(Though at this point in the story, the company has not entered the front door, except for Nardol and Poppy. There's going to be an encounter at the door ... Maladil madly running outwards towards the entrance, as simultaneously some of the company madly runs inwards ..)

All:

Will definitely put up at least one post later tonight.

~~ Gandalf the Grey

[ February 20, 2003: Message edited by: Gandalf_theGrey ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Gandalf,

Andreth has retrieved her book and started to follow her injured horse.

Is it possible to give me some idea in your posts as to the passage of time? I am specifically referring to time as it affects my particular character and the form she takes.

Thank you.

Sharon

[VanimaEdhel]

Now that Menelduliniel and Estelarion are with Poppy, where do you want them to go? Or do you just want them to wait for someone else to catch up? I know they should be looking for the spell to lift the curse, but how should they go about it? Did you have a way in mind? Just some general questions on how to proceed before I post! I figure a general outline of how you want Menelduliniel and Estelarion to go about wandering the Castle. Thank you!