An Audience With The King -- Discussion Thread

[Mithadan]

This is a closed membership RPG. Please do not post here seeking to join the game. Participants were signed up on a first come first serve basis.

What follows is the proposal for this RPG which was submitted to rpg@barrowdowns.com. You can use this as a form for future RPG proposals.
-------------------------

"An Audience With The King"

THE PREMISE:

The War of the Ring is over and Sauron has, at last, been defeated. Elessar Telcontar has ascended to the throne of Gondor and the reunited Kingdom. Seeking the goodwill and friendship of all free peoples, Elessar has dispatched messengers to various lands, such as The Shire, Rivendell, The Lonely Mountain, The Blue Mountains, Mirkwood, Dale, Rhun and Harad
inviting representatives from these various places to meet with him. The proclaimed goal is to renew friendly relations and set to rights any disputes which may yet exist between the lands. The task for the roleplayers is simply to get from here to there with a minimum of mayhem and meet with Elessar. Of course, the kingdoms and their representatives may also have agendas of their own, such as claims against other lands or internal disputes of various kinds. The potential for intrigue abounds!

The REAL PURPOSE is to enlist some more experienced gamers to act as mentors for less experienced gamers in a simple, short game. This will allow people interested in raising the level of their RPG abilities to receive instruction and guidance from those with greater knowledge of gaming. One mentor per group of each kingdom's representatives. The mentors will provide advice,comments, plot wrinkles and, where needed, kill out errant gamers. The
best part is we can do this over and over again with new mentors and new gamers once the process is established!

We have taken various steps geared towards improving our Freestyle RPG room. This will be your chance to help raise the bar and improve the quality of gaming on our site.


The First Post:

The scene repeated itself again and again in many places. A stranger, clad in black rode to the gates and requested leave to speak with the Lord of these lands. After the messenger’s steed had been stabled and the rider given refreshment, he was escorted before the Lord, where he delivered a message which bore a strange seal, one not seen for many years.

Curious the Lord opened the scroll and read the following:

“Elessar Telcontar, of the Line of Elendil of Numenor, Lord and King of Gondor and Arnor sends greetings and invites representatives from your fair land to journey to Minas Anor, known formerly as Minas Tirith, to meet with the King and his Counsellors to renew ties and relations between our countries and to set to right such disputes as may yet exist, even now that Sauron has fallen. Therefore, representatives of your land will be welcome and greeted in Minas Anor on mettare, the last day of this year, to engage in converse with King Elessar and the Lords of many other lands besides.”

Below this message appeared the seal of the King. The message itself was written in gold ink on the finest vellum.

Such messages were delivered to many lands and in The Shire, Dale, Rhun, Harad, Mirkwood, The Lonely Mountain, Rivendell and The Blue Mountains, much discussion was had concerning who should attend, what such representatives should bring to the new King and what should be discussed. But none refused the invitation…

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

This proposal was accepted (surprise!).

This is the backbone of the RPG. The Mentor for each Kingdom has prepared a backstory and first post as well. These will be posted here shortly. Selection and assignment of Members to Mentors will take place tomorrow. Start thinking about this guys. You have some tough taskmasters!

[ September 19, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

[Guildo]

Gah!!!! i cant wait, im so excited to get started.

[GreatWarg]

Yes, the skeletal outline of the whole RPG is quite something! Well, let's hope no one backs out! The sooner everyone gets here, the sooner we can start!

[Susan Delgado]

Indeed. Monday is a long four days away....ah, but anticipation is the spice of life smilies/smile.gif

[Mithadan]

Mentor Assignments!

Please contact your mentor within the next day or so to introduce yourself. Tell them your strengths and weaknesses and what RPG skills you would like to improve. There will be no trading places. These assignments are final!

The Mentors will soon be posting their backstories and first posts here. Review these and start thinking about the RPG. An early issue to deal with will be how to best get to Minas Anor. Those coming from the West need to cross the Misty Mountains (I guarantee that if you try to go South around the tip of the mountain range you will not get to Minas Anor in time smilies/evil.gif ). Those coming from the East need to deal with the Anduin.

Also, talk to your team members as well. This will aid in both character development and creating relationships. Some of the backstories automatically create conflicts between characters. This should be exploited not ignored.

Here are your assignments:

------------
Mentor: Barrow-Wight
Kingdom: Rhun

Great Warg
VanimaEdhel
The Fifth

-----------------
Mentor: Susan Delgado
Kingdom: The Shire

Faye Took
Carneiach
Ringwraith Number Two

------------------
Mentor: Piosenniel
Kingdom: Dale

Nevtalathiel
Kettle of Fish
Collette Took

-------------------
Mentor: Elenna
Kingdom: Rivendell

Belin Ibaimendi
Robin Headstrong
Ransom

---------------------
Mentor: Birdland
Kingdom: Mirkwood

Guildo
Isilya

-----------------------
Mentor:Bethberry
Kingdom: The Lonely Mountain (Erebor)

Anarya Silverbranch
Aylwen Dreamsong
Ithaeliel

---------------------------
Mentor: Child of the Seventh Age
Kingdom: Harad/Umbar

Marileangorifurnimaluim
Brinniel
Alkanoonian

----------------------------
Mentor: Thenamir
Kingdom: The Blue Mountains (Dwarves)

Joy
*Varda*


Please contact your mentor to introduce yourself as discussed above. If you can't quickly find a post by your mentor, use the search function at the top of the page. If you still have trouble, contact me.

Have fun!

[Birdland]

Welcome to Mirkwood, Guido and Isilya! Here is the history or your kingdom and its King, Thranduil, plus his first take on the summons of King Elessar. Pay attention to Thranduil's character. Though he won't be traveling with you, he IS your king. You'll want to be very aware of his attitude towards other races and trade in general, (no matter what you may think of of them personally. smilies/biggrin.gif )

A Short History of Thranduil and Mirkwood

Thranduil was the King of Mirkwood, the great, wooded Elf Kingdom that lay to the east of the Anduin Vales. His people were the Silvan Elves, descendents of the Nandorins who had turned their back, (some say in fear) on the Gift of the Valar to dwell forever in Valinor.

A people such as this are bound to become known as a independent, proud race ( though “stiff-necked” and “pig-headed” were also terms used to describe them). The Silvan Elves shunned the great works of art, architecture and metal-craft that marked the reigns of the other Great Elf-Lords. They had long preferred the more “simple life, natural to the Elves, before the invitation of the Valar had disturbed it.” So the Elves of Mirkwood were always known to be more pastoral and rustic then their more lofty cousins of Middle-Earth. (“provincial” and “backward” were also terms used to describe them, though not where Thranduil could hear it.)

Thranduil had inherited his kingdom after the War of the Last Alliance. The young Elf had witnessed the disastrous charge of the outnumbered army of Malgalad, and had watched his troops - dead and alive - sink forever into the depths of the Dead Marshes. He had stood with his father before the gates of Mordor, and been by his side when he fell. He had stood helpless as Isildur had shunned wisdom and seized for himself the Ring that should have been destroyed.

The horrors of the War at Dagorlad would haunt his dreams through the centuries. “If ever he looked south, its memory dimmed the light of the Sun.“ And though it was said that Mordor “was now broken and deserted and under the vigilance of the Kings of Men, fear spoke in his heart that it was not conquered forever: it would rise again.”

On the road home to his Kingdom, he passed through Lorien, and there met Nivala, who would become his wife. Her heart was touched forever by the sad, young (by Elf standards) King. And his tales of the Greenwood, where the life loved by Nimrodel had forever been preserved, kindled a longing in her. She married Thranduil, and left her life in Lorien forever.

They had three sons. Orodan, and then Finwë, were born early in the Third Age, and assisted their father in the ruling of his kingdom during the years of the Long Peace. A third son was born, surprisingly, in the time when the Necromancer took up his abode in Dul Goldur. His mother, delighting in this gift, named him “Greenleaf”. In her heart, he was a reminder of new life in a land where the trees were darkened, and the court of a King had retreated underground.

(Author’s note: Hey, I’m with Martinez on this one. Legolas is no more than 600 years old in the years of the War of the Ring.)

Thranduil’s distrust of Men, Dwarves, and even his own kin in Lorien had grown through the years He fought the growing darkness in his kingdom alone (or so he thought) and blamed the short-sightedness of Men, and the greed of the Dwarves, for his growing troubles and misfortunes.

It was at the Battle of the Five Armies that Finwë was slain. Nivala had long argued with her husband, considering it folly to try to seize the treasures of the Lonely Mountain as his own. With the death of Finwë, her long love for Thranduil died, as well as her love for Middle-Earth. She sought the Havens, and sailed to the West. Thranduil forbade her name ever to be spoken again.

During the War of the Ring, Thranduil and Orodan led their people against the forces of Sauron. He was reluctant allies with King Bard II of Dale, and Thorin III of the Lonely Mountain. But Elrond credited him and his neighbors with stemming the tide of the Dark Lord in the North, and preventing the Western Lands from falling, even as Gondor stood before the Dark Lord’s gates to the South. Despite the victories, Thranduil still mistrusted the Kings of Men. He had heard their promises in that past that Sauron would never arise again. Even the final destruction of the Ring could not fully convince him that the Darkness of Mordor was truly gone forever.

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

First Post

Thranduil’s Halls were always slightly damp. If skilled Dwarven craftsmen had been allowed to appraise the situation, they would have solved this problem by re-routing underground streams and providing much-needed ventilation. But no Dwarves had ever been in the underground Halls of the Silvan King - save one group, and they had departed as soon as able.

When Celeborn had visited Thranduil after the Victory, he had suggested that the King might want to relocate his seat to another area. “A new court, to go with the new name. The Kingdom of Eryn Lasgalen should be ruled from above ground, as befits this new Age of Light.” Thranduil thought to himself that Celeborn should go chase after his wife in the West, and leave the ruling of his kingdom to him.

Besides, Thranduil loved the Old Halls, damp as they were. They represented the long fight that he had waged to keep the Darkness at bay. Mirkwood may not have been protected by one of the Three as Lorien had, but against Spiders, Orcs, and Sauron himself, his people had prevailed. They may have been assailed, but they were never routed.

Thranduil picked up the missive that had been delivered to him. He had expected such a summons. King Elessar had wasted no time in attempting to bring the races of Middle-Earth into the Mannish fold. Thranduil did not begrudge Elrond’s fosterling his Rule. The Fourth Age would be the Age of Men. It had been long foretold. But he would see that there was one outpost of the Eldar that would remain for all time. Let the others flee to the Havens. The Silvan Elves of Eryn Lasgalen would abide. And when the Darkness arose in a new form - as Thranduil knew it would - then the summons from Minas Anor would take an entirely different tone.

It was the second letter that made the King return to his table again and again. The letter from Legolas, the first he had received since he had sent his youngest son to Imladris two years ago. “Letter” some might call it, but it seemed more like a tome. Legolas had written of all that had happened to him since he had left his father’s realm to attend the Council of Elrond. Moria, Helm’s Deep, Fangorn. It was all there. Nivala’s favorite had traveled far, it seemed. He wrote in glowing terms of his companions, both Man and Halfling. (Thranduil smiled to himself as he read Legolas’ descriptions of the Ring-Bearer and his companions. He had always had a sneaking admiration for Thorin’s Halfling squire.)

And he read of Legolas’ sworn friendship with the Dwarf Gimli. The praises of the Dwarf-Kind’s bravery, his devotion to the Lady of the Wood, his skill at arms and craft, even his poetry as he described the “Glittering Caves” of the Rohirrim. Legolas had said all he could to convince his father that , in bonding himself in friendship to one of Durin’s Folk, he had not lost his mind.

But it was the last pages of the letter that drew Thranduil to return to his desk and read again and again. The descriptions of Ithilien. The intention of Legolas to remain there. The humble request to his father that he inform his people of this Garden of the South, and permit such as would choose to come there to live.

The intention of Legolas to remain there. The intention of Legolas to never return home.

“So once again, Men and Dwarves have schemed to take from me my treasure.” Thranduil crumbled the page in his fist. Then he laid it gently on the tabletop and smoothed the wrinkled paper. He took up the letter and laid it in a box of mallorn wood, which he locked with a key held only by him. Finally, with a sigh, he turned his attention once more to the summons of the King.

Thranduil rang for his butler. When the Elf servant appeared, he said “Find Orodan. Send riders to the corners of the kingdom, if need be. Tell him his father has a mission for him.”

(RPG requirement - I will need someone to play Orodan, son of Thranduil and older brother of Legolas. Other representatives may also accompany Orodan on this mission, either male or female, but please keep in mind that diplomats are required more than warriors. Also needed will be servant-escorts for the representatives. (Trusted companions along the line of Frodo’s Samwise,) who will guard the representatives and see that their needs are met on the long road to Minas Anor. And if they are good at spying on other representatives they might meet on the road - so much the better.)

[Guildo]

Wow that got me even more excited about the Whole thing.
But let me see if i understand this Correctly there only two of us that will be from Mirkwwod and one of them must be Orodan, i would be happy to play him (even though i was fixated on my name Nefros) but i would still love to play him , unless Isylia wants to and you dont find it unapropriate this being my First RPG.

Also it seems that even though their will be only two of us from Mirwood we will have more in our party Correct??

I have lots of questions i just cant think of them all now, but if you want me to play Orudan or any other character will you give me my back ground or will it be up to me to make up.

[Mithadan]

Trick of the trade #1. Need a travelling companion for an RPG and no one available to play him or her? Play that companion yourself along with your character. They also provide convenient cannon fodder in the event of a disaster (be sure to act appropriately sorrowful when they are stabbed, eaten, dissolved, etc....).

[Birdland]

Guido - I sent you a PM. Names are always negotiable. (I'm terrible at them, myself). But one of the characters in "Mirkwood" must be the eldest son of Thranduil. We can change his name easily enough.

And yes, Mith is right: playing multiple characters is fun! Especially if they contrast each other, like master and servant.

Get together through PM with your partner, Isilya and work out your roles.

[Bêthberry]

Welcome, Anarya Silverbranch, Aylwen Dreamsong, and Ithaeliel to Erebor, dwarven kingdom under the Lonely Mountain. Do you know that in the Unfinished Tales Tolkien practically refers to The Hobbit as The Quest for Erebor? Anyhow, here's the backstory and first post for our kingdom. Bethberry
~~~~
A Brief History of Erebor and its King

Recent events have moved rapidly in the life of Thorin III Stonehelm and he is still learning on the job so to speak. Stonehelm is King of the dwarves known as Durin's Folk. He rules Erebor, the dwarf kingdom delved underneath the Lonely Mountain. His illustrious and successful father, Dain II, fell in the Battle of Dale, so Stonehelm assumed the kingship in the middle of the battle, leading his people during the seven-day seige of Erebor by Sauron's forces and then routing them finally on 27 March 3019 III once news of the Downfall of Barad-dur arrived. (These forces would be those of Mislavini, Great Captain of Ozren, described in the Barrow Wight's backstory for Rhun.) The valour of the dwarves and the men of Dale and Stonehelm's leadership thereby protected the northern flank of those battling Sauron and so ensured that Rivendell and Arwen did not fall to Sauron. Bilbo himself has written that Gandalf praised this contribution: Had it not been for the valour of Durin's Folk, "[t]here might be no Queen in Gondor." Stonehelm expects Elessar to recognize this fact with strong support for Erebor's position.

Thorin Stonehelm is a young king with no experience of leadership in peace. His father had fabulous success rebuilding the wealth and fame of Erebor after the Battle of the Five Armies but age had stifled development before the War of the Rings. Not only his father and elder brother but also his father's most trusted advisors fell in the Battle of Dale, as did two of his closest confidants. He has been preoccupied with matters of internal administration, repairing damage to the delving under Lonely Mountain, providing aid to dwarven families displaced by the War, and establishing his own Council. He has worked towards finding peacetime councillors to replace military advisors. Particularly close and helpful has been the advice and support of Dain's widow, his own mother, Ruthen the Cruel Fated. Unmarried, he is aware of his obligation to provide an heir for the kingdom and, indeed, of the great need of the dwarven people to increase their numbers. It can be said he is more a scholar and statesman than strategist or militarist, for it was his elder brother who had been groomed for the throne. He is smitten by Ingeld the Able, a woman instrumental in establishing a system of dwarven education, but in keeping with the right of dwarven women, so far she has maintained a polite distance from him.

Stonehelm is a direct descendent of Durin, the eldest of the Seven Fathers of the dwarf race created by Aule. He is also a collateral relation of Thorin II Oakenshield who fell at the Battle of the Five Armies, fighting with Gandalf and Bilbo to recover the dwarven gold from Smaug. The close ties between Gandalf and the dwarves date from this time and it would surprise no one if Stonehelm named his first son Tharkun, after the dwarven name for Gandalf. Stonehelm is acutely aware of the dwarven heritage and traditions and believes his lineage to be at the very least the equal of Elessar's.

Stonehelm views Elessar's invitation as an opportune moment in dwarven history. He will guard jealously the right of Durin's Folk to claim any artifacts found at Khazad-dum and wants to see the dwarven right to recolonise the ancient city confirmed. (His descendent, Durin the VII and Last, will succeed at this recolonization.) He is also anxious to see that dwarven superiority in smithcraft, stoneworking and delving is 'retooled' towards commodities more marketable for the Fourth Age peace. He particularly wants to advance dwarves as road and bridge builders and as security contingents for trading missions as well as manufacturers of furniture (diversification!). He will need the support of Thranduil for this, for the forests to supply wood. He is a little uneasy that the king of the Dale might be preoccupied with trade with states to the south. Stonehelm is suspicious about what the supremacy of men will mean to dwarves.

First Post

Thorin III Stonehelm watched as his mother led the family in the daily ritual of mourning. She cupped her hands to her heart, her lips, and her forehead and bowed three times. He followed suit and then lowered his eyes to the ground as she picked up each stone which had been positioned around the ornate silver oil lamp, a stone for every member of the family lost in the War. Each stone bore a rune, the work of his own chiselling, which represented the name of one of those dwarves now gathered by Mahal to the Halls of Mandos. Thorin wondered if it was these stones which caused elves to think that at death dwarves returned to stone, but he wondered how it could have been that an elf had seen the ritual.

His mother's voice called him out of his thoughts. Thorin king-son, you have often been lost in thought since we received Telcontar's invitation.

There is much to contemplate, honoured Mother-queen. Instead of celebrating victory over Sauron, I become ill at ease over the rise of men. It was a sombre omen which accompanied the arrival of the messenger. Five black crows! Stonehelm shook his head and lifted his right arm to wave over his left shoulder, pushing the omen away. And then this news that Gimli son of Gloin chooses to camp out in trees. It is an ill sign when a dwarf chooses not to return to his people. Ruthen nodded, put out the lamp, closed the silver door to the family shrine, and offered to listen to her son's concerns. The two sat together, falling into a discussion of the summons to Minas Anor.

Stonehelm wanted a delegation of several councillors. The only remaining dwarf from his father's council, Heremod the Loremaster, could be relied upon to gain Elessar's ear concerning Khazad-dum, while Hengest Thaneson would know how to advance contracts for dwarven manufactures, perhaps also Stonehelm's plan for the Royal Corps of Dwarven Engineers to be deployed by Elessar where needed. Beode Shielding or Freode Strongaxe would be needed if the Corps accompanied the mission. There were too many male dwarves in Erebor with nothing to do since the War ended and too many nightly drinking sessions. Either Beode or Freode would know how to manage twelve or even twenty-four of them on the road, and they could always be counted on for security. One councillor to look behind, one to look forward, and the third to watch sideways. And a king behind to guide them.

And servants. Ruthen had advised Stonehelm to choose the servants wisely, for oft to them fell the most important tasks of listening to the wind and the stream to see where others tread. That would mean sending either Hringa or Halgen.

Then the maidservant Hrethel came for Ruthen, who left to lead the morning devotions at Ingeld's school. Stonehelm had bid Ruthen give his greetings to Ingeld and compliments on the success of her school. Ruthen had smiled quietly, bowed three times, and then withdrew with a final observation.

Aside from the question of how large a delegation to send, Stonehelm needed to decide whether to contact the mad elf Thranduil or Bard of the Dale. And what route to take to Gondor. Stonehelm took a deep breathe and recalled his mother's parting words:

Do not lose sight of the final prophecy. Whatever befalls, remember that when the world is destroyed in The Last Battle, Mahal will call upon us, not men, to rebuild Arda.

RPG requirements:

Sigin-tarag ai menu!. Here are several dwarven characters to choose from, even some women! Ruthen and Ingeld will of course stay in Erebor, as will Stonehelm (ie, me, Bethberry) but they provide an opportunity for a second plot line should anyone be interested. The names I have derived from Old English, for it seems to me that the Scandinavian names of The Hobbit are a tad too informal for the valorous dwarves post-LOTR. Name changes can, of course, be negotiated as long as they are in keeping with dwarven culture. Also, feel free to add other servants and escorts.

Contact Bethberry through PM for info about dwarven culture and behaviour and let's talk strategy.

As for the Royal Corps of Dwarven Engineers, here is their marching song:
We are, we are, we are the Engineers.
We drink, we drink, we do drink beers. (If you know the story of Rorke's Drift, where 100 or so British soldiers led by an engineer held off 4000 Zulu warriors, you will understand the value of engineers. )

It might be a long journey to Minas Anor but it sure should be fun!

[ September 19, 2002: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Hello, Maril, Brienniel, and Alkanoonian---

Greetings from sunny Harad! Please check for pms.

Background

Harad sits below the river Harnen. Nurn (old Mordor) lies to its southeast, and Gondor to the southwest. On maps, it's shown as Near Harad (north) and Far Harad (south). It's made up of petty, warlike kingdoms who don't always agree.

Umbar, on the Bay of Belefas, was originally independent. In the Third Age, it became part of Harad, including the port of Umber and its fleet. The men of Umber, known as Corsairs, were pirates and raiders. This fleet was sadly thrashed in the War of the Rings, so only a few ships remain.

We know about Harad through the eyes of Sam Gamgee and Gollum. (LotR, II, 321-323; 340-342) Sam is fascinated by Harad's Oliphaunts. Gollum describes the people as having long and braided black hair, black eyes, and dark skin, and wearing bright colors like red and gold and many gold ornaments. He says they're cruel: "almost as bad as Orcs, and much bigger." The Haradrim stand second to none in combat, especially when they sit atop oliphaunts.

For Harad, the War of the Rings wasn't a matter of supporting "Sauron" or "Evil." It was a vendetta against Gondor, whom they'd fought for thousands of years. You can argue rights and wrongs, but both sides had long been "locked" into their positions. Harad was fiercely independent; it resented Gondor's occupation in 1050, T.A. and having to pay tribute. There was almost constant war between the two in the Third Age.

The Haradrim were cruel and primitive and loved to fight. But, having said that, they had a real sense of honor. And, as far as we know, none were personally "corrupted" by Sauron. Sam held no personal anger against the Haradrim, as he did with Orcs. When a man of Harad lay dead, Sam wondered what his "name was, and where he came from; and if he was really evil of heart; or what lies or threats had led him from the long march from his home..." If Sam's attitude was "typical" of Middle-earth, it's possible Harad could reach a grudging accomodation with Gondor. But that could only happen if it was treated fairly.

There were two parties in Harad: those who continued to raid, and those who wanted change. It's the latter who go to Elessar's court. These moderates wanted to revive coffee export, a lucrative trade, as well as expand spice, tobacco, and tea production.

Harad is negotiating a coffee agreement with Dale. They'd like to make similar contracts with the Dwarves, possibly even the hobbits. This is their main motive in going to Minas Anor. They're open to friendship with men, just not those of Gondor!
---------------------------------------------
Please look at the thread labelled "Coffee" in Books for differing ideas on the origin of coffee.
---------------------------------------------

First Post

Herumir, King of Ariwenna, paced back and forth. How he hated being cooped up! He wanted to be outside on his oliphaunt, chasing lions through the purple brush of the desert. But he had little choice.

Gondor's victory over Harad had proven bitter. Now Elessar had asked them to travel to Minas Anor to "right such disputes as may yet exist."

Herumir threw back his head and roared, golden chains jangling about his neck and ears. "He thinks to right our quarrel of several thousand years with a single meeting?" Too much anger still ran through his proud people to be bought off with scraps. He himself dreaded the heavy hand of Gondor and its insistence on unreasonable tribute, as had happened in the past.

Yet, Herumir had pledged loyalty to the party seeking to find some honorable road to prosperity, rather than continuing a hopeless war. And once a pledge was given, it could not be honorably withdrawn. Their group would travel to Umber and free at least one ship. The Council had ordered the Corsairs to turn over all vessels, but they had defied that order. Now, he--King Herumir--would force them to obey.

He and Fuinur, King of Leowenna, would then sail up the Bay and the Anduin towards Minas Anor. They must go swiftly. Rumor said one Corsair ship had slipped out from Umber a day before, intending to pillage spots along the river in south Gondor. Such an expedition would infuriate the King and negate his own attempts to foster trade. So they might need to do some "persuading " of these Corsairs. He was an expert at "persuading." It might involve a bit of bluff, physical force, a promise to cut the Corsairs in on a share of trade profits, or perhaps all of the above. He'd have to judge what would work best.

For Harad had learned a bitter lesson. It could not exist only on the might of its individual soldiers. Herumir understood they must bring gold into their coffers. The tools were at hand. The west clamored for coffee, a thing so common in Harad that the poor drank it for breakfast. They also wanted spices and tobacco and tea. All that, Harad could supply, if it could make trading deals. This was the real reason his people had agreed to the meeting. Let the men of Gondor be hanged! He'd take a good dwarf trading caravan any day.

Already, Jarl, a man of some intelligence from Dale, was in Harad to negotiate a coffee deal. Gramil hoped to travel with him to the eastern Nurn to look at the trading outposts Dale meant to establish. Then, Gramil would turn his oliphaunts to the west and arrive in Minas Arnor through the back door. Jarl and his folk were welcome to come as guests aboard the oliphaunts.

There was no pretending otherwise. The great Harad Road was largely gone. They would need to rebuild it and many others if trade was to flourish. And dwarves were reputed to have such skills. Certainly, his own people were not road builders. They might have used slaves, but Elessar had issued an order abolishing slavery in Nurn and Harad. So other sources would have to be sought.

No, Herumir had no desire to be a piece of Gondor's great empire or to build roads with his own hands, but the money that would flow from arteries made safe for trade. That was quite another thing!

NEEDED: Two to play the kings travelling to Umber to seize the ship and sail north up the Bay and the Anduin. One to play the trade negotiator who'll be using the Oliphaunts to approach Minas Anor through the back door. Names can be changed as needed, but let me know.

Get in touch, and we'll talk strategy and characters. You'll also want to drop a line to your fellow Harad delegates.

sharon

[ September 19, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[piosenniel]

Welcome to Dale, Nevtalethial, Kettle of Fish, and Collette Took.

Here is the back story for Dale and a few helpful references:

Dale in the Fourth Age

To the east of the northernmost section of the Misty Mountains, just beyond the northeastern border of the great Eryn Lasgalen (Forest of Green-leaves), known as Mirkwood in the Third Age, lies the now prospering, Fourth Age city-state of Dale.

Established in the Third Age at the southern foot of Erebor, The Lonely Mountain, by the Northmen, nearest in kin of lesser Men to the Dúnedain, it became a thriving center of trade between the Dwarves of Erebor and The Iron Hills and the astute merchants of the city. Originally, the bulk of its trade was in food stuffs for the Dwarves in exchange for tools, stone-masonry, and smithy work. Eventually this commerce expanded into exportation of Dwarven handicrafts to other regions.

With the defeat of Sauron and the promise of an enduring peace, what had started out as a trading network between Dale, Erebor, the Iron Hills, and Laketown (an independent city just south of Dale on Long Lake) is now being expanded by King Bard II of Dale.

The small trade with King Thranduil of Eryn Lasgalen is hopefully to be expanded, although there are some recent disputes over the receipt of inferior quality of Dorwinion wine by said King. Such disputes will need to be rectified soon since Thranduil’s people control the passage of the forest into the western regions of Middle-earth. It would be far more costly for commerce to be routed through a southern route.

Representatives of Dale have gone southeast to Dorwinion, near the Sea of Rhûn to discuss quality control with the winemakers in the hopes of heading off further problems with Thranduil. They are also offering to expand the export of wine in greater quantities to the western regions of Middle-earth, and to open up areas of mutually beneficial trade with the newly recognized regions of Nurn, in southern Mordor, and with Harad.

Nurn, now peopled by the freed slave population of Mordor, is a very fertile region. Dale has heard they have begun the cultivation of an excellent variety of pipeweed, which might well rival that of the Shire’s finest.

Haradwaith, Sutherland, is a key entry for the expansion of the Dale network into the promising lands where coffee is cultivated. This is a rare and expensive commodity in Middle-earth at the present, and one that could well develop into a very profitable enterprise. A representative of Dale is in Harad when King Elessar’s message arrives there.

King Bard II is eager to secure the establishment of certain trading routes and to draw up contracts with the newly expanded areas of King Elessar’s realm.
____________________________________________
Handy references: ‘The Atlas of Middle-Earth’, Karen Wynn Fonstad, pg. 53 & 76-77.
‘The Hobbit’ – the chapters concerning Lake-town
‘The Encyclopedia of Arda’- Arda (http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/default.htm?http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/intro.html)

And here is:

Dale – First Post

Drumming the fingers of his left hand silently on his knee beneath the table, King Brand II waited impatiently for the last representative from the Merchants’ Guild to finish recounting his lists of contracts, grievances profits, and expected losses. His gaze regarded the droning Master of the Weavers’ Guild briefly, and he thought to raise his hand and bring the sleep-inducing speech to an end. Instead he let the words flow over and past him while he turned his thoughts to other matters.

King Elessar and his invitation were foremost in his mind. Now this would be a rare opportunity for Dale, he mused. The ear of the King! And just when Dale had begun to push her trading network farther south and east.

He ran a short list, through his mind, of trusted men he could send to represent him, weeding out the ones whose personal interests might overshadow the needs of Dale, itself. He wished now he hadn’t sent Jarl south to Nurn and Harad. He would be the most politic choice to send to the King’s court - a trustworthy, well-spoken man, and shrewd, though not to the point of dishonesty.

Ah, well, there was no point in wishing he hadn’t sent him, it was too far to send a message to him, and too far for him to return to Dale and start on the road to Minas Anor.

And what about the road to Minas Anor ? There was a sticking point in itself. Thranduil had grown strange of late. Would he allow the representative from Dale to travel unimpeded through the forest? He turned the question over in his mind many times, seeking a way through it.

‘Ah!’ he said aloud, as the answer came to him. The startled Master, having just finished his lists, looked at him, wondering if it were a comment of approval or disapproval. The King smiled, saying ‘Well done, Masters! I look forward to our next meeting.’ He stood, bringing them all to their feet, and dismissed them with, ‘Gentlemen!’, and a brief nod.

Once gone, he called for his attendant, Grim. ‘Find Girion quickly!’ he instructed the man, ‘Bring him to me in all haste!

Alone, Brand sat back in his chair. His son would have to be the one to travel the Old Forest Road and then down The Great River to Minas Anor. He was counting on the old friendship between Girion and the son of Thranduil, Orodan to get him safely through the forest.

He called for a cup of chilled wine, hoping it would ease the nagging doubts in his mind. Sighing, he raised the cup to whatever powers might be listening.

‘Please! Let him be up to the task!’

Needed characters:

Girion, the King’s son
Girion's attendant
Jarl as the envoy to Harad.

Names are somewhat negotiable, but they must reflect the types of names likely to be found in Dale.

Please let me know who you might like to be, as there are some details concerning them I would like you to consider in doing your first posts. Thanks! -- Pio smilies/smile.gif

[ September 19, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Elenna]

Greetings to Ransom, Robin, and Belin, and welcome to Rivendell. Please PM me ASAP, so that we can start to get to know each other and I can talk to you about your characters. Two of you will be playing Elrond's sons, and the third will get a character that has not yet been heard of.

My Character:
Name: Meneciriel "Ciri"
Age: 5452
Race: High Elven
Appearance: deep gold hair, green eyes. 5'6", 120 lbs. Scar across right cheek. Not beautiful, but looks interesting.
Occupation: Warrior and healer
Weapons: A spear and throwing daggers
Personality: Very introspective and intense. Doesn't trust people easily, but also doesn't lose her temper quickly.
History: Used to dwell in Lindon, but now lives in Rivendell. Her family has all gone over the sea, except for her husband, Erestor (yikes! A married character!) and her daughter Eilithien.

Background info:
After the War of the Ring, Elrond begins to plan his journey West. He has lost interest in Middle-Earth, and has passed the day to day runnings of Rivendell to his sons and his counselors, in particular Erestor and his wife Meneciriel. However, without the attention of the Lord, Rivendell is beginning to fall into disrepair.

When the messenger arrives, Elrond does not wish to go to Minas Anor. He chooses Meneciriel, along with his sons and another member of his household, to go in his place.

The First Post:
The messenger had arrived the night before, a burly man riding a gray horse. "I have a message for the Lord of Rivendell!" he had said proudly as he rode into the courtyard. Meneciriel had looked at her husband out of the corner of her eye - Lord Elrond would not wish to receive this man, a rider of Gondor.
"My lord, this message was sent to you. King Elessar wishes to speak to the lord of Rivendell, not to a few of his household advisors," Erestor's voice was agitated as he sat before Elrond. "And Arwen will be disappointed if you do not come."

Meneciriel flinched - her husband had just stuck a dagger into Elrond's most tender spot.

"I care not." The elf-lord's voice was harsh with sadness and pain. "I have said my goodbye to her, and do not need to go again. Elladan and Elrohir will go, as well as some others and Meneciriel, since you do not seem to wish to, Erestor."

"But, my lord!" Ciri cried, sitting up ramrod straight in her chair.

"That is my decision. We need not discuss it."

And so Meneciriel found herself preparing for a long journey. Her companions would be the sons of Elrond, Elladan and Elrohir, as well as (name of other character). She brushed away a tear as she slipped a folded cloak into her knapsack. It would be a very long time before she saw either her husband, her daughter, or her home again.

[ September 19, 2002: Message edited by: Elenna ]

[Mithadan]

Check the list up above Carneiach.

[Mithadan]

All participants, please indicate that you have seen your assignments and have or will be PMing your mentor. I want things to go smoothly!

[Susan Delgado]

Hello, Faye Took, Carneiach, and Ringwraith Number Two! Welcome to the Shire. Come, pull up a chair, we will converse.

As far as history is concerned, we should all be pretty familiar with the area, so I'll just recount some of the recent events around here.
Will Whitfoot is still Mayor of the Shire, but rumors abound about his upcoming retirement. Word is, Samwise Gamgee, who left the Shire to fight in the War, is going to be elected in his place. The truth is, Sam still mourns for the departure of his longtime friend and master, the fabulous Frodo Baggins and has no thought to spare for politics. His eldest daughter, Elanor, is growing up to be the most beautiful little lass anywhere around.
Masters Meriadoc Brandybuck and Peregrin Took have settled in Buckland and The Marish, respectively. They and Master Samwise seem to be very contented Hobbits.
Looks can be deceiving, however. Merry and Pippin find their safe, sedentary lives comfortable but confining and not very exciting and Sam misses his old friends. All of them would like to see mountain and rivers again, go on another adventure like the one at the end of the last Age. Well, perhaps not exactly like that one.
While Sam is in contact with Rivendell and has been there a few times over the years, it isn't the same. He looks East, toward Gondor and Mordor and wishes he could go there one more time, but he must always return to the Shire.
Knowing this, you can imagine how excited he was when Mayor Whitfoot approached him with King Elessar's invitation. Who better to send on a mission to Minas Anor than those who'd gone with the King to the very slopes of the Ephel Duath and back?

----------
First Post
----------

Sam urged his pony along, impatient to get to The Marish as soon as he could. The pony, one of old Bill's fine sons, was none too eager to hurry up. He was just fine moving at a sedate walk, and nothing Sam did seemed to make any impression at all on the beast. Finally, Sam gave up on making the pony go faster and settled to gritting his teeth. He had such news for Merry and Pippin! Eventually, he did reach his destination, and beyond it Buckland, but to his extreme disappointment, neither of his old friends felt they could get away, though they wished they could. Each did recommend someone trustworthy to send in his stead and each wished him well.

Merry introduced him to young Orlo Hornblower, a lad seemingly barely out of his Tweens, but who came so highly recommended by the Master of Buckland that Sam found himself with no choice but to accept him.

Pippin was distraught at being unable to go with Sam to see all their old friends and tried most valiantly to arrange matters so he could, but in the end he was unable to. He sent along a third cousin named Odo Took and his twelve-year-old nephew, Brando. It was a long road to Gondor and Sam didn't want to take a child, especially the child of such a good friend as Pippin. He tried to talk Pippin out of sending him, but Pippin was so insistent that the experience would be good for the boy that Sam finally gave in, hoping nothing dire would happen. If something did happen to hurt Brando, Sam would never forgive himself.

The four of them made the three-day journey back to Michael Delving, to report to the Mayor. While less than pleased at the inclusion of a twelve-year lad like Brando, he was so pleased that Sam had agreed to go to the East Farthing and broach the matter with Merry and Pippin in his place that he indulgently allowed the boy to go, but he also insisted on his own prospect, a sturdy Hobbit of middle years named Hardo Proudfoot.

They all went back to Sam and Rosie’s pleasant little house and settled in for the night. There was more preparation to do before they departed, but with luck, they'd leave before the week was out.

----------
Ok, I need an Orlo, an Odo and Brando, and a Hardo. If you want, you can share Brando equally, or you can switch him off between you on a regular basis. I recommend the latter; it would give all of you practice at controlling more than one character at the same time, rather than have one of you do it the whole game. Discuss it amongst yourselves and let me know.
All the names are negotiable.
----------

Please pm me as soon as possible so I can start getting to know you.

[ September 19, 2002: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[The Barrow-Wight]

The nation of Rhûn looks a lot like Texas to me this week (I'm am on a business trip), so our players will have to wait until Saturday to get their first real tast of our journey. Please be patient as I don't have the resources where I am to start our adventure off correctly. I'll fill you in by Saturday evening.

Sincerely
BW

[Anarya SilverBranch]

This is so cool! I've always wanted to play a dwarf but they always had these elf rpg thingys. But I get to be a dwarf! Sweet!
Also I just pmed you Bethberry, just to let you know! smilies/cool.gif

[GreatWarg]

*does the springle-ringle* I'M IN WITH MR. BARROW-WIGHT! WHOO! Wait, is that because i need restraining and a mentor who won't put up with foolishness? Nah, can't be! Rhun, nice ring to the name. Now I must find a 'Rhunese' name. Saturday seems like a long two days away, Mr. Barrow-Wight, but your life comes first, then your Barrow-Wight life comes next. I'll be waiting...

Vanima! The Fifth! We're in this group together! *bounces around the Barrow-Downs* Er - no tackling me, okay? And The Fifth, no funny stuff.

[Bêthberry]

Here Ye, Here Ye, Hear Ye

A Royal Proclamation

By the authority of King Thorin III Stonehelm, of the Kingdom of Erebor, Under the Mountain, it is hereby decreed that:

Dwarven women do not have beards.

The official pronouncing this decree then distributed a Press Release which elaborated on the proclamation. It read in part that, in ages past, when dwarven women were forced to travel through unknown lands, they were required to travel under disguise, so that they could not be distinguished from male dwarves. This was to ensure their protection in unsafe realms. It is regrettable that the bard Tolkien was not entirely clear or forthcoming about this matter.

An addendum to the proclamation was as follows:

Any opinions concerning this matter on the part of the Honourable Delegation from the Blue Mountains will be entertained by Thorin III Stonehelm through PM. smilies/wink.gif

Signed,
Bethberry,
Press Secretary to Thorin III

[Alkanoonion]

Sound great, I will PM Child of the 7th Age with my details shortly.

Thank you for this fantastic opportunity.
smilies/smile.gif

[The Fifth]

Ah, yes, Rhûn. The mysterious land. I will look forward to playing as an Easterling of some sort, but I guess for now I shall wait for the return of Mister Barrow-Wight.


Oh, and GreatWarg, I promise not to try anything. smilies/evil.gif

[ September 19, 2002: Message edited by: The Fifth ]

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Im a dwarf! Im a dwarf! I have never played a dwarf...but now I am! Yes I have contacted my Mentor bethberry and I plan on staying with the RPG and the members of my group! This was just such a cool idea!

Aylwen
or...dwarfkid smilies/biggrin.gif

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Elenna posted the following. Is this what we post here, or PM our Mentor? Do you want something in this format/level of detail?
*Maril looks about, somewhat bewildered. "I don't think we're not in Kansas anymore.."*
My Character:
Name: Meneciriel "Ciri"
Age: 5452
Race: High Elven
Appearance: deep gold hair, green eyes. 5'6", 120 lbs. Scar across right cheek. Not beautiful, but looks interesting.
Occupation: Warrior and healer
Weapons: A spear and throwing daggers
Personality: Very introspective and intense. Doesn't trust people easily, but also doesn't lose her temper quickly.
History: Used to dwell in Lindon, but now lives in Rivendell. Her family has all gone over the sea, except for her husband, Erestor (yikes! A married character!) and her daughter Eilithien.

Background info:
After the War of the Ring, Elrond begins to plan his journey West. He has lost interest in Middle-Earth, and has passed the day to day runnings of Rivendell to his sons and his counselors, in particular Erestor and his wife Meneciriel. However, without the attention of the Lord, Rivendell is beginning to fall into disrepair.

When the messenger arrives, Elrond does not wish to go to Minas Anor. He chooses Meneciriel, along with his sons and another member of his household, to go in his place.

The First Post:
The messenger had arrived the night before, a burly man riding a gray horse. "I have a...blah, blah.

[Brinniel]

Alright, I have received a PM and will try to send a reply a soon as possible.

[Guildo]

Ok my Fellow Mirkwood Elves i have planed out some what could be my proposed path(which is in red) and a few alternate paths in different colors in case any thing else happens. tell me what you think.
www.glensight.com/mirkwood.jpg (http://www.glensight.com/mirkwood.jpg) www.glensight.com/middleearth.jpg (http://www.glensight.com/middleearth.jpg)

[Bêthberry]

I've just sent PMs to Anarya Silverbranch, Aylwen Dreamsong, and Ithaliel with background info on dwarves.

Birdie and Pio, are your groups interested in joining a dwarven caravan? I've asked this of my group and will let you know the result of their deliberations.

Bethberry

[Guildo]

Birdland i just saw you are online, but i wanted to let you know i PMed you and i have some other ideas.

[Birdland]

Whoa! My elves are using maps! Me so proud! I love it.

These are all good routes, if you just want to travel with your elf companions. If you want to have some "companions" on the road, particularly from Dale or Erebor, then you'll have to meet up with them around the Old Forest Road and convince them that you have some "short cuts" through Eryn Lasgalen.

Of course, remember what Frodo said about "short cuts." smilies/biggrin.gif

[Belin]

*Belin pokes her nose out of her newly discovered Rivendell library for a moment.*

I'm an elf! How exciting. smilies/smile.gif

I've pm'ed Elenna, and am currently thinking about my character. You will all hear from me soon, especially Elenna.

Am I the only extravagant lunatic having a "Bottom moment" here and suddenly wishing to play in all of these games??

--Belin Ibaimendi,
staring up at the mountain ranges ahead.

[Susan Delgado]

Hey, Elenna, do you and your Elves want some Hobbit travelling companions?
I'm sure my three would go along with it, and I'll ask them, just as soon as they show up smilies/smile.gif

[Carnëiach]

ta da! talk of the devil and carnieach appears!
Hi Susan, Im glad to be with you, its a great background.
Id quite like to play Brando, the kid, but Ill PM the other two as soon as I find them. Oh, and I for one am fine with travelling with Elennas crowd.
Ok, Im off to find ringwraith number 2 and Faye Took then Ill write in my description tonight.
lol
me

[Ransom]

*Surfaces from ocean composed of sheets of homework and lab materiel*

I'm PMed Elanna. Currently thinking of character. Will probably finish this afternoon, assuming no more homework.

-Ransom

[ September 20, 2002: Message edited by: Ransom ]

[Bêthberry]

Esteemed Neighbour Thranduil,

There is another route which avoids any Old Forest Road entanglements but it certainly does not qualify as a short cut.

The River Celduin to the Redwater and on down to Dorwinion and those Easterlings. No doubt this is the route which that conniving Bard took to get to Rhun in his search for false stimulants. So quickly he forgets the War of the Dale.

You have been advised.

Thorin III Stonehelm of Erebor

[Guildo]

Pio do you know who is playing Girion, as it looks as if i am playin Orodan and i have some pretty interesting ideas, i want to have layed down by no later than sunday so we can have a smooth start monday.

[*Varda*]

Well, until Thenamir (or Joy) appears, I'm not entirely sure what I'm supposed to be doing, but I'll think about my character anyway. Interesting...never played a dwarf before.

[Nevtalathiel]

Guildo, I'm just about to PM Pio to ask if it will be ok for me to play Girion. As far as I nkow, no-one else is playing him yet, but I'm not sure, so I'll PM you as soon as I know.

[Guildo]

Thats great i just PMed Birdland with my Proposed first post, let me know if your Girion and ill give you my plan, as i have information for Girions ears only.

[Susan Delgado]

All right, I've gotten in contact with my Hobbits. RW2 and Faye Took ought to be posting here soon.

What's the protocal for listing characters? Do they do it here or wait for the RPG proper to start?

[Carnëiach]

Ok wild stab at my first hobbit character:
Name: Brando Took
Age: 12 hobbit years
Race: hobbit
Appearance: Dark, almost black curly hair, which hes very proud of and which in true hobbbit style always looks wild. Dark green eyes, unusual in hobbits. A little short for his age.
Occupation: He takes after his Uncle, Pippin, and is a general mischief maker.
Weapons: Sam wont let him have a weapon of any kind yet, much to his disappointment, so a small penknife is the best hes got.
Personality: Cheerful and mischievious, but if provoked he can give meaning to the word sulk, due to being quite spoilt by Pippin and Merry. Hes not a brat though and easily makes friends. Very curious, which could prove unfortunate.

This Ok? I cant wait til monday!

[Mithadan]

Whatever you prefer. You're the Mentor! smilies/biggrin.gif

[Ringwraith Number Two]

I've read all the posts on this thread, and I'm happy to take any character which is left over- I've no preference. I look forward to this RPG!

[piosenniel]

Hear ye! Hear ye! Men of Dale

Once you have worked out the details to your character and PM'd me with them, and have contacted the others in the game with whom you will interact, then please work on the first post that will bring your character in to play.

Any questions or concerns - PM me.

smilies/cool.gif - King Bard II, His Mark

[Elenna]

Maril - I am a mentor. I thought it would be a good idea for everyone involved to see character ideas and background.

Susan - Sure! Bring your hobbits to Rivendell - we'd love some companions.

Ransom - I'm dealing with a lot of homework too. Don't rush - take your time and make your character awesome.

[Nevtalathiel]

Can anyone give me Kettle of Fishis member number, I need to PM and can't find it!

Thanks

[Susan Delgado]

It's 3155, Nev.

That sounds just fine, Carneiach smilies/smile.gif

[Carnëiach]

a) Thanku susan
b) How the heck do u know peoples numbers like that?!

so wraith, r u playing Orlo and Fayes playing Odo? Woah, im so gonna get mixed up; Odo, Orlo, Ordo, Olo...

[ September 20, 2002: Message edited by: Carnëiach ]

[Mithadan]

OK, we've got good news and bad news. Good news first. The RPG thread will be opened Monday, September 23, 2002 at around 10:00 am EDT. After it is opened, please wait for your mentor to make his or her first post before jumping in.

A word of warning. This is a large RPG. Lots of players going in different directions from different starting points. It may be hard to follow until you get used to it. A tip: focus on people within your own team. They are the ones you are interacting with (unless two or more teams hook up en route). DO NOT try to have a conversation with a dwarf from Erebor if you are a Hobbit from the Shire, etc.

Now the bad news: THERE ARE RULES FOR THIS RPG

1. Out of character comments belong in the discussion forum or in PMs. Do not make OOC comments in the RPG thread unless it is completely necessary and even then, delete them after they have served their purpose.

2. "Chat speak" is not allowed. There will be no: "I thought U were gone 4 good".

3. Chat style posts are not allowed. In other words, no one or two line posts unless they are completely appropriate under the circumstances.

4. Use paragraphs, commas, periods and question marks. If you are speaking to someone, use quotation marks or some other appropriate style (consult your mentor).

5. It is generally bad form to make successive (back to back) posts, unless you are operating more than one character (and if they are at the same place at the same time, there is no reason to use more than one post).

6. No flaming. Settle disputes through PMs or with your Mentor's help on the discussion board.

7. Stay in character and act within the scope of the game at all times. Generally, men, dwarves, elves and hobbits do not spin around in circles for the joy of it, use automatic weapons or fly.

Allow me to re-introduce myself. I am the semi-moderator of this RPG. I will throw in obstacles, wrinkles and problems when I feel like it. These may include fire, storms, floods, avalanches, earthquakes, plagues, assorted nasties and minor "character adjustments".

The latter means that if you violate any of the rules, your character may slip and fall face first into a mudpuddle, trip on a wagon rut and twist an ankle, lose fingers, eyes or limbs, or be eaten by whatever animal/nasty that may be available at the time. Stated otherwise, your character can be "killed out" for rule violations (repeated or bad ones).

Now that the unpleasantries are out of the way, this RPG has been a lot of work, particularly for the Mentors (let's give these guys a hand -- clap, clap), but we think that it will also be a lot of fun as well as a great learning experience (likely for all involved). Have a great time!

[Joy]

Okay, I am here. I don't know too much. Do I make my own character or does Thenamir?

Ps. Is Nogrod still in existance in the 4th Age or was it already destroyed??? I have a character in a fan-fic from Nogrod, so if it is still there, I would probably use some of his information.

[VanimaEdhel]

Joy: from what I've seen, Thenamir will have a story and characters. You and your fellow RP'ers sort out who's who...from what I've seen...

Maybe Thena's on a business trip like my mentor, Barrow-Wight?

In the meantime: we just hang out and read all the other interesting facts and histories I guess? And I'm researching all I can find out about Rhun: you can do that with your area too, if you want.

EDIT: Look at me acting like I know what I'm talking about...sorry about that. One of you moderators can slap me if I'm totally off-track! smilies/biggrin.gif

[ September 20, 2002: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]

[Susan Delgado]

Thanks, Mith smilies/smile.gif

That sounds about right to me, Vanima.

How the heck do u know peoples numbers like that?!
Well, I'm psychic. Whoohooooo *makes mysterious hand gestures*

No, really, he's a player in my own RPG, Blue Sky, Night Thunder, and I looked over there to see. smilies/biggrin.gif

so wraith, r u playing Orlo and Fayes playing Odo? Woah, im so gonna get mixed up; Odo, Orlo, Ordo, Olo...
You guys can change the names if you want; I'm not attached.

[Joy]

As for the area, I know a lot about it, but mostly the Elven history of it. The Blue Mount. is in part of the Realm of Lindon. Contained in the region was Nogrod and Belegost.

I see no evidence that they were destroyed during the sinking of Beleriand at the end of the 1st Age, but I was told that Nogrod was later changed to Mithlond, but this make no sense.

[Carnëiach]

oh right. *feels a little sheepish*

Come on, cant we start the Rp a little early? Cos I wont be able to get on on monday and probably not on tuesday either.

[Ringwraith Number Two]

Yep, I'll play Orlo Hornblower. That is, if its OK with everyone else; as I said, I have no particular preference over any character. So, do I post a description of him here?

EDIT: Here's the description.
Name: Orlo Hornblower

Age: 35

Race: Hobbit

Appearance: Aside from being a little thinner and taller than most hobbits, Orlo has the appearance of an everyday, average hobbit, but with an adventurous glint in his eye.

Occupation: An apprentice to Merry Brandybuck, often going with him on his small adventures in the Shire.

Personality: Orlo may not be the brightest of Hobbits, but certainly has a lot of common sense. Steadfast, rational and trustworthy, he will not abandon any of his companions in trouble.

History: Orlo's family, the Hornblowers, are average hobbits. However, when Orlo saw Merry Brandybuck and Pippin Took returning from their adventures, he longed to go on an adventure of his own. He befriended Merry Brandybuck, wanting learn from him. Orlo's family don't particularly mind their young son going off on adventures, just as he's careful whilst doing that "adventuring lark."

[ September 21, 2002: Message edited by: Ringwraith Number Two ]

[Bêthberry]

Just a quick note for Anarya Silverbranch, Aylwen Dreamsong, and Ithaeliel:

When I copy the first post for Erebor (the one posted above, for your advance notice) on the game thread, I will add Stonehelm's request to a servant for "your characters" to meet with him for a joint meeting that afternoon. Thus, I need to know by Sunday who your characters are. Sooner would be even better. smilies/smile.gif

This anticipated meeting will give you a focus to write around. Your character can reminisce about his past as he prepares for the meeting. He can meet with one of the other characters to discuss the meeting with the King. He can be seeking advice from his family. He can be meeting with tradesmen about trade possibilities and problems--gathering info for the King. He can be buying his personal supplies for the long trip ahead. He can be waking up from a drunken spree. The possibilities are endless. Or your first post can start that meeting. (You will need to discuss amongst yourselves who does this.) Maybe you have other ideas for your first post--that's great; go right ahead and use them.

You might want to talk with each other about these posts in particular when you also are making plans for the route to take. At the meeting with Stonehelm, you will be discussing a request from Orodan of Mirkwood to travel together through Mirkwood. Be prepared to make that decision at the meeting. (If you choose 'yes,' then learning how to get along with these elves will be part of the stuff of the journey, as will dealing with the terrain/geography of the forest.)

Have fun. I'm sort of wishing HRH was going along with you! smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[ September 21, 2002: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Bêthberry]

Carneiach,

I hope it is okay with Mithadan if I copy his answer to this same question, of whether everyone will have access on Monday morning. One of my dwarves will be in school. This is Mithadan's reply:

I'm aware that there may be issues
regarding both school/work and time zones. We have to start sometime. If someone can't post until 4:30pm EDT that's fine. I doubt that your team will depart in the space of 6 hours. Also, she could provide an advance post, good exercise in planning and coordinating with his/her teammates.



Bethberry

[Elenna]

Attention Ransom, Robin, and Belin

Please give me e-mail addresses that I can contact you by - that way, if I have something to tell all 3 of you, I won't have to PM you separately.

And if you wish to contact me via e-mail, I can be reached at elenna@barrowdowns.com

(Many thanks to Mith and Barrow-Wight for setting that address up for me - I'm starting to love it! Makes me feel very official)

[Susan Delgado]

Addressed to Carneiach, RW2, and Faye Took,

Considerations of Route. I think it would be best if we take the road through Budgeford and Whitfurrows and go north of the Old Forest, bypassing it completely. We wouldn't see Bombadil, but then, I doubt we'd see him anyway, and as we all know, The Old Forest is a very dangerous place.

So, from Hobbiton, we'd go East through Bywater and Frogmorton, then Whitfurrows to the Bridge of Stonebows. Go along the road north of The Old Forest to Bree and on to Rivendell, where we'd meet up with the Elves.
It's pretty much a straight shot East to Bree and then to Rivendell.
What do you think?

Here's (http://fringeworld.homestead.com/files/route_to_rivendell.bmp) a map with the route outlined in olive.

[ September 21, 2002: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[Thenamir]

I *am* playing catch-up for this RPG project, but I hope to have background and first post up before Monday.

I see Jo's post above, but have not heard from *Varda*, so if you're reading, please make sure to let me know you're available!

I'm not ignoring this -- just have much to do this weekend! Looking forward to this -- it should be quite good.

Thenamir of Rohan
Onwer of the First Rohan "Domino's Pizza" Franchise

[*Varda*]

Thenamir - You're here! And I posted on the first page.

Playing a dwarf should be an interesting experience.

So, what's our background?

[Faye Took]

Hello Susan and everyone else, I guess I will be Odo if thats all right with everyone else smilies/biggrin.gif

[*Varda*]

Joy, I don't think Nogrod, or Belegost for that matter, were destroyed, unless in a war that I haven't read about. They definitely weren't destroyed in the sinking of Beleriand, because I'm pretty sure most of the Ered Luin survived, and Nogrod and Belegost were in the middle, just above the Gulf of Lune. *looks at a few maps* But don't take my word for it. The proportions look about right though.

So, what's our route going to be? *consults more maps*

[The Barrow-Wight]

Rhûn Nation

Backstory
More than 100 leagues east of Mirkwood forest lies the Sea of Rhûn. This great inland body of freshwater, fed by watersheds of the Grey, Iron and Orocarni Mountains, has more than 2000 miles of shoreline and forms the natural boundary between two nations. On the western side, between the Gondath Hills and confluence of the Rivers Carnen and Celduin lies the country of Dorwinion, famous for its wines. Its people are a mixture of many societies, and it has always traded freely with the peoples of the west, though it has also always paid tribute Mordor. East of the sea, beyond the thick Ernaraw Forest, Middle-earth opens up into a wide land of rolling plains occupied by many small nations united into a confederacy known in Gondor as Rhûn but to themselves as Ozren. Ozren rule stretches to the Mountains of the East and hundreds of leagues south to beyond Mordor as far as Khand. Its chief city, Ozvalda, lies in the heart of the northern plains.

Ozren first came together in the early Third Age under the guidance of Sauron, newly arisen from his defeat at Orodruin. Before that time, it had consisted of small kingdoms contantly warring with each other. The Dark lord used his cunning to convince them to unite and expand to the west. Thus begun centuries of warfare between Gondor and Ozren, and countless lives were lost in the struggles. The enmity between the two lands countinued to grow, and many wars were fought. Finally, at the end of the Third Age in the War of the Ring, the armies of Ozren were devestated in the Battle of the Morannon and the Battle of Dale. Mislavini, Great Captain of Ozren, submitted to an unconditional surrender on 15 March, T.A.,withdrew his forces and returned to Ozvalda.

Since that day, Mislavini has waited in dread for a summons from the king in Gondor. Though there was no immediate occupation of his lands and there were no stipulations put onto him other than to withdraw and not come westward again, Mislavini feared that an invasion was inevitable. Even if the Gondorians were true to their word and did not attack, he knew that Variags of Khand, less devestated by the recent warfare, were likely to encroach. Combined with the exodus of freed slaves from Mordor, Ozren’s southern borders were a military nightmare.


Role-Playing Aid (for a Discussion Thread if there is to be one)
Ozren Society
Ozren Society is a very feudal society that developed from clans that formed nations that eventually formed one confederacy. Mislavini is the Great Captain and rules with an iron fist from Ozvalda. Ozren consists of 23 different nations, each run by its own Great Chief. Each nation is responsible for itself but answers ultimately to Mislavini. Justice is controlled internally and is seldom fair. The rich live well and the poor live dismally. Military service is a way for someone to become rich, or for a family to be rid of an unwanted son.
Ozren Technology
Ozren is less advanced than Gondor, but it is not stuck in the stone age. They have never had the close relationship with Elves that the west has, so their crafting is not as functionally or aesthetically effective as Gondor’s. That’s not to say that they can’t possess things of great make or value, but such things will be rare and highly valued.
The Military
Military officers have horses. Everyone else exept for cavalry walks or rides in wains. Cavalry is chariots and scouts, no heavy cavalry. Organization is simple but effective. Discipline is sometimes lacking but heavily punished.
The Ozren People
Ozrens are strong and brave people, and they are not stupid. They may be a bit dirty and uncouth, but they are not cavemen or hairy Vikings, though they are chauvensitic. They are somewhat superstitious. They are proud to the point of arrogance. They have many vices, including alcohol and smoking – a practice they invented independent of smoking in the Shire. Their pipeweed is not the same pipeweed, but it is similar.
Characters
All characters in this RPG must be Easterlings. Kasteni will be my (The Barrow-Wight) character and will be used to guide the story and introduce new characters. Pay attention to what he says and does.
[I]Our Game[I]
Our goal is to get to Minas Anor in Gondor. That’s a long way. We’ll have to pass through a several nations of Ozren, past the Ernaraw Forest and the Sea of Rhûn. We should pass through Dorwinion and then down to Dagorlad and Ithilien, perhaps straying into the Dead Marshes. Eventually we should cross at Osgiliath and reach the City of Gondor.


First Post
Mislavini sat on his great wooden throne and watched the tark emmisary pass through the tall doorway at the far end of the hall. His golden crown sat crookedly on his brow as he cradled his chin in his hands and pondered the summons from Gondor. Though it had been expected, its friendly tone had not been forseen. Mislavini had been prepared for a humiliating demand for his presense before the new king, but instead he had received what seemed to be a cordial invitation to dignified conversation. Perhaps it was a trick.

Since he was a small boy and his father had been Great Captain, he had heard of the treachery of the tarks and their wicked allies the Elves. His library was full of tales of the many Ozren peoples that had been slain by the enemy to the west, tortured and burned in a manner worse than even the Dark Lord dealt out to his foes. But when he had stood dumbstruck at the Morannon, suddenly bereft of the driving will of the Lord Sauron, he had witnessed mercy instead of malice, wisdom instead of cruelty. It had shocked him, and he had doubted its sincerity immediately, thinking it was but preparation for some later evilness. But the summons had finally come, and it had been a request for peace and friendship instead of a list of demands.

Mislavini stood and beckoned to his steward who stood in the shadows at the side of the hall.

“Kasteni, my friend. It seems we have a choice to make.”

“Indeed we do, my lord.”. The steward stepped into the light. His hair was dark and long like the Great Captain’s, and he shared the same long, hawkish nose and piecing dark eyes. But where Mislavini was massive and muscular, like most of the people of the northern plains, the steward was tall and thin, showing the Carnic* blood that flowed in his veins.

Mislavini stared at his steward, waiting for him to say more, but Kasteni remained silent.

“Well, what do you think?” the Great Captain asked at last. “You heard the message, and it is obvious that we will have to send a representative. With war imminent on our southern borders there is no possibility that I can go, so I must send my best man. But who will accompany you?”

Kasteni smiled and said, “I already have a few people in mind, my Lord.”

He pulled a small sheet of parchment from his pocket and wrote a few quick notes on it.

“Doorward! Come here quickly and then go summon the people on this list!

The chief guard at the door rushed forward, took the note and rushed from the hall.

Kasteni looked to Mislavini. “Let us have a drink while we wait for my companions.”

*The Carnic people were the original occupants of the lands that became Ozren. For many centuries they were persecuted, but over time they once again became prominent in the politics of their own land.

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Susan, it's been a while since I visited the riddlegames.

Well, I'm psychic. Whoohooooo *makes mysterious hand gestures*

LOL!

Wow, this is getting exciting. I'm working it out with Brinniel which of us will play the tradesman, and which the King of Leonarra.

Guys, it seems like Harad (and until now Rhun) have the least-defined cultures, so we'll have to invent something. Ready for a flight of fancy to reject or sign off on?

Harad

Customs and Cultural history
Harad is a combination of the southern tribal culture of the men who did not serve the Noldor when they came to ME, and (whether they like it or no) the culture of old Numenor. Note, I did not say Gondor. Gondor has grown and changed, leaving many outdated customs behind. In Harad, many of the ways of old Numenor are preserved exactly, with little understanding, though the Haradrim assume these customs to be their own. For example, they stand at their seats a moment before dining (though they did not adopt the Gondorian custom of facing West which began after the fall of Numenor). Their soldiers use the Gondorian salute of the arms crossed, though they use the original salute of just the right arm across the breast. The tithe system also continued from the occupation of Numenor. The tithes are currently sent yearly to the king of that particular city state. Consequently the Kings of Harad are fabulously wealthy, their capital cities exotic.

Authority
Strangely, this has served to underscore allegiance. The Haradrim have fanatical devotion and respect for authority, whether it is the head of their family, or the nation.

Language
Numenorean words have slipped into their language, such as 'King', which they've used in place of the tribal word 'Hahn.' It means 'highest' and can denote any leader so long as he is at the top of the chain of command. So a captain on a mission, if he is the highest authority available, is the 'king.' But if there are two of equal authority, then there is no 'king,' even if both by the usual standards of the word are kings. This tends to cause some confusion. It was fortunate that 'King' Elessar had travelled far in his life. He tactfully ommitted the title 'King' from his invitations to Harad, implying he was an equal inviting equals. (Er, right, Child?)

Superstition/Elves
There is an ancient distrust of the western elves and their power, a superstition passed down from the time of the second breaking, a rumor as it were that the elves of the 'otherworld' and their bright jewels brought cataclysm upon the world. The story of Feanor, from the perspective of Men and Middle Earth, is found in their songs. The elves' close association with Gondor did not help this superstition, though the 'elves of this world' (i.e. elves who did not go to Valar, such as those of Mirkwood) are accepted.

Judicial
Each family is responsible for their own. Should a family member be convicted by the 'king,' the family is responsible then for the punishment. Families take this very seriously, as their family name is not cleared until the punishment is abated. Death sentences they can be carried out by the head of the family, or more commonly, the criminal can elect to die in battle serving his family. His hands are tatooed with the family 'name' (Haradrim names usually refer to animals or mythical combinations of animals, so their name will be a picture of that creature. Fairly simple and practical system of names), he is manacled and a member of the family assigned to see to it he carries out his sentence. If you note that this system is ripe for abuse to 'up' conscription, you are quite correct. Numenorean overlords took advantage of this system, and many powerful leaders of citystates have done so since.

The Two Peoples of Harad
There are actually two races in Harad - the inland Haradrim, who are lighter skinned and taller, and the coastal Hardrim, who are very dark and massive. The Numenorean overseers on the various farms in the inlands tended to be cut off from regular contact with Numenor during the occupation. They commonly 'went native' (or joined rebels as the men of Numenor called it). This has blended their races. The inlands have historically been supported by farming and trade, consider themselves more civilized than the coastlords. The coastal Haradrim are more closely related to the Corsairs, have returned often to their raiding ways. They consider the inlanders to be rather weak and effete.

Clothing
The Haradrim (both inland and coastal!) love bright colors and fine cloth, silks in gauzy brilliant hues, gold, and dazzling colorful jewels. Rich and somewhat tasteless, with an appreciation for the exotic and unique - and a little competitive one-upmanship - they are a dwarf's dream customer. The Lonely Mountain is fairly salivating at the opportunity Harad trade represents.
Due to the humidity and high temps, they wear loose flowing pantaloons, loose tunics slit at either side, though they also often go bare-chested. In their love for decoration, they have taken tatooing to an art form. They will tatoo anywhere but the hands. A tatoo on the hand represents a criminal condemned to death, a fairly common event in this aggressive culture.

Music and Education
The original culture of Harad survives in its fullest form in its education system: its songs. Songs have been handed down from the earliest history of man. In fact, surprisingly, outside of the elven histories (where those who witnessed those events are still alive) it is the most accurate history of Middle Earth. It includes history of Man that is not recorded by Elvenkind. This 'export' is more valuable to the Elves than any jewel, and includes information about elven races of the East who had disappeared and lost contact after the Elves went West. Relatives who may be still alive. Legends that have been forgotten elsewhere. They may contain the fate of the Entwives. Locations of Hobbit cultures outside the Shire. The Harad have no idea what they know, and Numenor in its arrogance has dismissed these 'songs.' Even Elessar doesn't know.
The Haradrim warrior priests memorize their oral tradition, teach them to children, and sing them at the feasts of the full and new moon. The midsummer and new year. Music and song is interwoven through the entire fabric of Harad culture. The choosing of the warrior priests is a carefully kept secret.

[ September 22, 2002: Message edited by: Marileangorifurnimaluim ]

[The Barrow-Wight]

That's some great background info, Maril. It will be a fun challenge for your players to stick to them. But that's the fun of roleplay - you get to be someone else. If you can successfully play someone completely different than yourself or your favorite, then you can have a lot of fun!

[GreatWarg]

Mr. Barrow-Wight, you take all the fun out of being an Easterling! Vanima wanted to be evil, too. Ah well, let's see, here goes my really bad try at this:

Ulwyte's (I believe that's what I told you Mr. BW..? Excuse my poor memory.) family had great (for an Ozren family, that is) wealth, and had quite a bit of power in his easternly nation. They had been the least affected by Sauron, for they lived on the brink of Rhun. Ulwyte was a scout for the Chieftein in his small nation, often sent to Ozvalda for running errands. His father traded with countries beyond Middle-earth, and so how their small nation was one of the wealthiest in trade and commerce. Ulwyte himself has never seen Gondor or Minas Tirith, still being quite young, and had been lucky enough to be among the few who continued running their trade with distant and foreign lands while they were at war.

Ulwyte is known to Kasteni because of the messages he carries to the Great Chieftein, and great wealth he brings from his little, nearly-forgotten nation.

Hope that cuts it, Mr. Barrow-Wight!

GW
The Seventh Age Warg

[Susan Delgado]

Boy, Maril, those riddle threads were a very long time ago...mind if I ask what brought it up?
You know, it's funny, those riddles were actually the reason I joined the Downs. Oh what wasted hours an offhand comment over the phone can bring...not that I'd trade the time I've spent here for anything smilies/smile.gif

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Hello, BW! Fortunately generalizations have so very many exceptions, and even 'American culture' varies from town to town. smilies/wink.gif The team can nix any part of it, too. Any slips into Gondorian behavior has been accounted for, of course - the stamp of Numenor it is. Heh. The point is to have fun with it.

Susan, you mentioned the riddles recently in the 'how I found the Barrow-Downs' thread. I think that was in February? Or was it April? I remember being home sick and playing riddle games with you and was charmed to find out that was where you started. There were some real stumpers in that lot! smilies/biggrin.gif

-Maril

[Carnëiach]

yeah susan i spent way too much time trying to work out the answers to some of your riddles...i never got the answer to one of them, but i cant remember most of the riddle, just my guesses on it.

where do u live susan and approx what time will u be postin?

[VanimaEdhel]

Okay: BW: I PM'ed this to you, but I'll post my main character here anyway (tell me if you can get my very minor character in somehow)

Name: Lovek
Age: 43
Position: He's kind of high militarily. Not too high, but high enough to have respect.
Brief History: Lovek was born into a military family. His father held the same position he now possesses. His mother was the daughter of another commander. The marriage was to the advantage of both families. Lovek was basically raised in the military, joining as soon as he was old enough. He has seen many horrible things in the many battles he has participated in. He never married.
Physical Description: about 6'2" with dark, nearly black hair and very fair skin. His eyes, too, are almost black.
Personality: He is pretty arrogant, but also very disciplined. His men, unlike many in Ozren society, are very disciplined by the time they have finished training.
Items:
His father's old sword (which he has used ever since his father dies) A black cloak A necklace of his mother's Basic healing supplies, although he is, in no way, a healer.Since he is an officer, he rides a horse. It is black and big, about 20 hands. It's name is Ratislav. (I forgot to mention that to you in my PM, BW...)

[ September 22, 2002: Message edited by: VanimaEdhel ]

[The Barrow-Wight]

Mithadan, when are we going to build the Discussion threads? (Assuming that each kingdom will have its own discussion thread) Can I go ahead and open them now??

Just so you know, all the Rhûn players have contacted me and are ready to roll!

[ September 22, 2002: Message edited by: The Barrow-Wight ]

[Susan Delgado]

Ah, I loved those riddles...I was sad when they died. smilies/smile.gif

Carneiach: I'm on the west coast, and work, but if Mithadan opens the thread at ten am EDT, then I should be able to get in here witin an hour of the thread opening. That is, if i don't oversleep and have to rush off to work. I'll try not to do that.

For the record, my team's ready and waiting (some of us impatiently smilies/smile.gif ) too

[*Varda*]

Well, I don't know the background or first post or anything like that...I've made my profile and sent it to Joy and Thenamir but I can't do much more.

[piosenniel]

BW or Mithadan

I was unaware you were opening separate discussion threads for each region. It would make it easier to communicate with each other if you did.

[Susan Delgado]

It certainly would...no wading through information we don't need to get to the nuggets we do. Also, this would make the mentors' advice more private.

[Elenna]

I second that - it's a little difficult to PM everyone separately, especially when I want my people to see the same things at the same time.

[The Barrow-Wight]

I'm not sure if we are opening seperate discussion threads. Stand by until Mithadan replies. He's in charge.

[GreatWarg]

Wait wait, who's The Fifth going as? I should at least know his name so I don't have to shift through everything!

And on Monday, I got school (yuck!) and since I live on the west coast, I may be the latest to post. I'll post as soon as I get home from school, but then I have community service, so I may not post again until the evening. I an hoping Mr. BW and my fellow Easterlings won't have posted too fast or else I'll be playing catch-up at the beginning of the RPG!

GW
The Seventh Age Warg

[*Varda*]

Ack, everyone's talking about being last to post and I don't even know what our first post is! I'm feeling confused already! Not the best way to start!

[Elenna]

Well, I'll be one of the first - I have a study hall at 11 tomorrow. So all you Rivendell-dwellers are lucky! You can all thank the computer that did my scheduling.

I don't know about this separate thread thing, but it seems like a good idea to me!

[Carnëiach]

ok well im in england, so dont rush; i dont think the RP wont open till tuesday where i am....somnething like that.
man time differences are a pain!

cant wait for this to open!
lol
Carnëiach

[*Varda*]

Hmm, I think it's good timing for me *does the maths* 5 hours ahead...so it starts at 3pm...I get home at 4:15pm...yeh, I'll post about an hour after it starts. Carneiach (sp?), the times are the same for you.

Still awaiting more knowledge on my bit of the RPG.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Maril --

That background info on Harad is absolutely great!!! I'm printing off a copy for myself. But please check your pms. I still need your bio on Gramil.

Brinniel --

Please check your pms and get back to me with your bio. Also, please get with Alkoonian who's working on the first scenes--stealing the boats--by pm.

Mith -- I agree that indvidual discussion threads would make this easier to keep up with.

Also, Harad delegates, please note I am at work till noon CDT and have no computer access. I'll post the first thread the minute I get home. Thanks.


Sharon

[Joy]

Still haven't heard anything from Thenimir, so what do I do now.

PS> Varda you should be able to PM me now. Found out how to get you off my ignore list. I've just had a bad week.

[Susan Delgado]

Well, it seems unanimous to me. smilies/smile.gif

Faye Took, I still need your bio. Dame tu bioinformacion, por favor.

[Mithadan]

BW- Separate discussion threads is a fine idea! Feel free to open them up.

All mentors: Some of you have e-mailed me about AWOL participants. Could all mentors please post the names of all missing players here as soon as possible. If they don't show up by tomorrow, we'll reopen enrollment and sign up more people. I have also heard that some mentors have received PMs from people wanting to join. Post those here also. They will receive first consideration for any open spots.

Considering the extent of communications problems, we may push the game back one day if it looks like too many people are not responding.

Participants: While I am in charge of the game in general, the mentors are in charge of their kingdoms. They know what they are doing and have a specific vision of where the game should go, so please listen to their comments and suggestions. The first concern of gamers is that the "plot" and "characters" be believable. Your mentors know what they are doing in this regard so please stay in communication (both her and by PM) and follow their lead.

The decision on whther we proceed or not tomorrow morning will be a "game time" decision. We also have a mentor playing catchup, so a short delay may benefit everyone.

[Birdland]

Mirkwood is all ready, and looking fine!

Do you want Country and Character "histories" re-posted in our individual discussion threads?

[The Barrow-Wight]

I have created a discussion thread for each of the nations represented in "An Audience With the King". Please post only in your specific thread.

Thanks.

[Bêthberry]

Mithadan,

I have no character bio or first post from Ithaeliel or Aylwen Dreamsong, although I do have an initial PM from each of them. I have two great character bios from Anarya Silverbranch, who is going to run a secondary character/plot for Erebor.

Also, a new member of the Downs, Tharkun, is very interested in joining the mentoring RPG. He has not yet posted here, but has lurked and is familiar with the game plan. He would like to be placed on a waiting list. Contact me for more info on him.

Bethberry,
press secretary for
Thorin III Stonehelm of Erebor

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Bethberry, Sorry for not sending my bio sooner, but I sent it to you, and I was wondering if Ithaeliel was still Rpg-ing with us? Because I have not heard form her. But I have spoken to Anarya.

SOrry for the lateness, I had a busy weekend, soccer tournament, auditions, sisters b-day (oh goodness!) and renaissance (is that how you spell it) festival.....lol sorry nevermind all that Im just sorry for not sending my bio sooner! See you tomorrow!!

thanks,
Aylwen

[Susan Delgado]

Mithadan, I don't have a bio or first post from Faye Took. She did respond to one of my pms, but she's only posted in this thread once. She also tried to back out; I talked her into staying, but I think she may drift away and disappear. I'll let you know what happens.

[Guildo]

Name: Orodan Greenleaf
Age: 1100-1300
Race: Silvan Elf
Occupation: Seeker of Lore, and Heir to the Throne of Eryn Lasgalen
Weapon: Elvin Long Sword, and a Bow
Appearance: 5’4” dark blonde hair, dark green eyes, very stern face (Imagine Legolas’s Evil twin but not Evil)
Personality: Quite, and has a constant look of aimless wondering and peril, but very friendly to those that approach him, always willing to learn new lore and is always searching for knowledge (Which his father and brother believe will one day be his demise.) Very Passive and only fights when it is extremely Necessary. Usually prefers to ride in the back with the commoners than in the front with the royals. Although Orodan disagrees with many of his fathers Values he loves him more than anything and would journey to the ends of the world at his request.

History:
During the war of the Ring Orodan spent most of his time Scouting the North and East for lost knowledge of the world. Though Elves are not liked throughout Middle Earth Orodan had a strange likeability and developed great friendships with people on his journeys, those that where not afraid to speak to him. ( Because of his stern appearance many people thought him to be a Mad Elf) Some say he befriended the dwarves of Erebor before Legolas met his companion Gimli.
Orodans quest for knowledge was thanks to none other than the Wizard Gandalf. From the first time Orodan conversed with Mithrandir he was overwhelmed by his knowledge and wisdom, and even though Thranduil said “The journey for the wisdom of a wizard is an endless one, and you shall drive your self mad seeking it.” Orodan chose to seek it anyway.
After the last battle of the third age Orodan returned to Eryn Lasgalen (Mirkwood) in hopes to see younger brother Legolas return from the battles, which he hasn’t yet. So while awaiting Legolas’s return he began ridding Eryn Lasgalen from the evil Spiders, Trolls, Orcs ..etc. During this time he developed two very important relationships.
The First with a young Elf named Nefros who had an uncanny ability to cheer up Orodan and put a smile on his face, for this Orodan chose Nefros to be his companion and servant on all his journeys, thus was a friendship unheard of between royal elves and common elves in Eryn Lasgalen.
The second friendship began as mentor’s relationship with his student. Orodan befriended the young child Girion the son of the King of Dale. Girion admired Orodan greatly as a child, and as Orodans thoughts became more complex he considered there to be no better company than the simple minds of human children, and aside from Nefros the Children of Dale was nearly the only thing to put a smile on his face. As Girion grew older, Orodan admired the Prince of Dale just as much if not more. Throughout the years Girion often accompanied Orodan in the ridding of the evils of Eryn Lasgalen, as Girion was one of the few peoples not Elvin, King Thranduil openly allowed in his realm.

Name: Nefros
Age: 622
Race: Forest Elf
Appearance: 5’9” shoulder length chestnut brown hair, and green eyes
Occupation: Bard, and Loyal Servant of Orodan, Will one day be known as the Bard of Lasgalen.
Weapons: Flute, Long Bow, double short swords
Personality: Energetic, always ready to sing a song for those willing to listen, always thinking of the happiness of others. Rarely will you find Nefros without a smile on his face and the only thing he enjoys more than his journeys with Orodan is writing song of them and singing them to his sister Isilya.

History:
Nefros began his Bardhood at an attempt to make his sister Isilya laugh with his songs of the antics of Dwarves, Hobbits, Men, and Fellow Elves. One day wandering through the woods of Eryn Lasgalen, Nefros not looking where he was going, blowing on his flute gazing at over passing birds, ran face first into the steed carrying Prince Orodan. Nefros lying on the ground dumbfounded and quite embarrassed opened his mouth thinking out loud and said “Why thank you my lord you seemed to have broken a dumb spell I set upon myself.” Thus began a relationship that could be compared to Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee.


Orodan & Nefros

First Post

It was early morning, Orodan and Nefros where riding along the the River Runing Southbound having a conversation of Nefros’s young sister Isilya.

She is growing anxious, and im afraid my songs do not give her joy as they did years ago, she deeply desires to take part in our journeys, and quite honestly I would like to see such joy in her face again, my lord, Said Nefros.
As do I Said Orodan,
But it would take great persuasion on my part for my father to allow a maiden as fair as your sister to be put in such danger.

Ironic is it indeed when prince Orodan attempts to put a smile on the face of a frowning Nefros, but………

At that moment a trumpet sounded in the north, it was the trumpet of summons, which has not sounded sense the War of the Ring.

We must make Haste, Shouted Orodan, for deathly thoughts rushed through his head.

Perhaps your Brother has returned Sire.

Or met great peril, Replied Orodan.

Orodan and Nefros rushed to the Kings throne to find he was setting quite Calm rereading the letter from the High King.

Thranduil- welcome back my son, I feared you had traveled outside the sound of the trumpet, Im glad you returned so quickly it shall save us much time.
Orodan- Please Father why such haste.
Thranduil- I do not doubt you my son and I am very proud of your journeys, but it is once again time for you to prove your self worthy of the throne of Eryn Lasgalen but this time I will give you a responsibility that may change our fate for ever.
I have received a Summons from the High King at Minas Anor. Representatives from each Kingdome in Middle Earth shall meet at Minas Anor to establish a trade and Unite the peoples.
You know how I feel about such matters involving Men and Dwarves, but for this matter I will ignore my head and trust my heart I will leave the choice up to you. Of course the loyal Nefros shall travel along your side but you may also choose another representative from Eryn Lasgalen. Your friend Girion as always is welcome to travel through the woods as well as his servants. If the Dwarves wish to follow you the may but they will not have the Magic of the woods on their side and shall only have your party’s protection.
Be off my son you will leave midday tomorrow.

Walking out the Door of the Halls of the King Orodan turned and asked his Father.

Have you word of Legolas father, for I do wish he was by our side again.

That matter weighs on my heart more than you realize my son, and we shall discuss it before you leave, Replied the King.

As Orodan and Nefros where walking from the Kings chamber, Nefros turned to Orodan and said; Perhaps the songs of this journey shall return the joy to Isilya’s face.

Prepare the journey at once Nefros I have two letters I must right at once, Said Orodan.

As Nefros turned away Orodan Shouted; Nefros …….. Perhaps for this journey you will be kind enough to sing of your sister by our side.

Nefros laughed aloud and shouted; you are too kind to us.


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

Letter to Erebor:

Dear Ambassadors, Diplomats, and Servants of Erebor, I Orodan Son of Thranduil King of Eryn Lasgalen invite you travel along my side through the woods of my Kingdom for the journey to meet with the high King at Minas Anor. Though we have had many disputes in our past I propose we declare a new friendship for this new age. I do hope you will accept my invitations and meet us where the Forest River meets the forests of Eryn Lasgalen. I am looking forward to our long journey together.

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

Letter to Girion;

To my Dear Friend Girion I do hope we will travel together on the journey to Minas Anor as my Father has granted you and your servant’s safe passage through the woods. I have also invited the Dwarves of Erebor, but we must give them the best protection we can offer for the magic of Eryn Lasgalen as never been kind to the Dwarven Race.
As you know my father deeply disagrees with the trade im afraid I agree with him but for unlike reasons. As where Most the kingdoms of Middle Earth will greatly benefit from the trade im afraid it will be our demise for where your walls are made of stone and rock mine are of trees and brush which will diminish as new paths are made for the trade. I propose an alliance with Eryn Lasgalen, Dale, and Erebor that will benefit the three Kingdoms equally as well as the King. We will discuss the matters in more detail on the journey. Let us not let these matters break the bonds of our friendship. You have always made the Honorable decisions, and I look for your aide in mine.


Orodan Son of Thranuil King of Eryn Lasgalen

[ September 23, 2002: Message edited by: Guildo ]

[Mithadan]

Bethberry, I think I've heard of Tharkun somewhere. Please PM Tharkun and tell him/her that he's #1 on the wait list. smilies/wink.gif

[piosenniel]

Mithadan

Colette Took has not responded.

I need someone to play Jarl - Barring that, I will play him until you can find someone.

[*Varda*]

Hm, everything does seem a bit up in the air doesn't it? Maybe it would be better to postpone starting till tomorrow, I, for one, have 2 essays to do tonight, and won't be online for more than 5 minutes. Still, if I type fast, I can get a post done. smilies/smile.gif

[Mithadan]

Tough decision. While there are a lot of people anxious to start, Thenamir is still preparing his materials and there are still a few "missing" participants. I think that the right decision is to delay our start one day and begin tomorrow, Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 10:00am EDT. Any participants not reporting in (not first post, I mean in communication with your mentor) by 5:00 pm tomorrow may be replaced.

Unless someone provides me with compelling reasons to start today, this is my call. Everyone take a deep breath. You have one more day to get ready.

[Elenna]

I agree with replacing any players who do not report, but should we take time zones into account?

This is a large RPG, and it isn't fair to the rest of us to halt because 3 people aren't committed.

I guess I shouldn't talk, though, because I have 3 very cool people in Rivendell.

[Bêthberry]

Yo, Birdie and Piosennial,

I have assumed that the first wrinkle of business for our three nations is to decide whether or not we three form a caravan together.

I have also implied that Stonehelm is a little ticked at Bard II's eagerness to enter into trading relations with Rhun. Plus, of course, Mirkwood is Mirkwood. Or shouldn't that be Greenwood now? smilies/wink.gif

Are you amenable to this? And should we discuss this here or in PM? Do we not want to ruin narrative suspense? (er, is there any suspence at this point?)

For Erebor, we are currently working out a few wrinkles in characters and first posts. I've sent my dwarves off to read up on your threads, too.

Bethberry

[Child of the 7th Age]

Mithadan --

I also am missing a poster. Brinniel sent me a welcoming pm at 2 am Saturday morning, but I haven't heard anything back. Don't have her bio or first post.

sharon

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Sharon, I rec'd a PM from Brinniel late on Saturday. I left the final call on who plays Gramil up to her, but assumed that it was okay, and wrote a first post for Gramil today. She may have classes or some such this morning, so I think it's a good call to start a day later.

-Maril

[Mithadan]

PMs have been sent to the 4 "missing" participants asking that they get into contact with their Mentors and fellow teammates by 5:00pm EDT tomorrow. If any of the Mentors know of other persons wishing to participate, please post here.

[Susan Delgado]

Re: Faye Took

The first day or so she seemed very excited and responsive.
She asked if she could play a specific character and sent me her email address, then on Thursday or Friday she pmed me saying she wasn't comfortable playing anyone but her stock character* and that she wanted to back out.
I was very persuasive in my response and she agreed to stay, but I haven't heard from since then except for a very brief IM Saturday night, in which she didn't really tell me anything. I really just don't know what's going on with her.


*See, this one reason we're all doing this: to help eliminate the rut of playing stock characters.

[ September 23, 2002: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Yeah, I'm playing someone easy-going - as different from me as one can get.

What I'm doing is making up a character that is similar to two friends of mine - one person in particular. I'm playing my friend from Bhutan more than anything else. If anyone has trouble playing a different character, that's one way to do it - pick a friend, any friend. I figure the character will probably grow away from those roots as the story goes on.

We've heard from Brinniel. I figure the delay was just due to the Gramil-juggling.

[Joy]

I can't get a hold of Thenimir, I don't have his member #. I am working on my character, so if I do have to leave - will know Wednesday evening EST - the character will be easy to pick up with.

Name: Lerin

Age: 116

Occupation: Smithy

Personality: Easy going, most of the time, but once an issue (anything worth fighting for) is raised, he is unstoppable and can by hasty and dangerous. He is loyal, almost to a fault.

Apperance: Average height and weight for a dwarf. Longbeard, red and unmanagable at times.

History: Dwarf of Nogrod. Very distant relative of Telchar, the famed Dwarf, who made Angrist and Narsil. Has been on one quest - at age 72, with a small group of hobbits seeking vengance on a orc band that killed one of the dwarf's family and several hobbits in Breeland.

Weapon: Double-edged axe, and if necessary a dagger.

[ September 23, 2002: Message edited by: Joy ]

[Susan Delgado]

Mith, if you have someone in mind to replace Faye, feel free. Let me know, but at this point I'm not sure I want her in the game even if she does show up...she's proven herself unreliable as far as I'm concerned, and that's not tolerable in this type of project. How can she improve if she's never around to post?

[Elenna]

Plus, if she isn't willing to step out of her comfort zone to play a new character, the RPing won't be particularly interesting.

[Carnëiach]

ive never seen any of her posts, so i dont know what shes like but it does bug me when ppl always play the same thing, especially if its mary sueish.
Has the Rp started yet? I cant find it

[The Barrow-Wight]

IIRC, Mithadan said 10AM Eastern US time would be the earliest it started.

[Mithadan]

The RPG thread is open. Mentors, please make your first posts. Participants, do not post until your mentor does.

Joy and *Varda*, please PM me when you can.

[Mithadan]

Bethberry, Susan!

As between the two of you, who is in greater need of another player?

We have one or two available.

[Susan Delgado]

If there's only one, go ahead and give her to Bethberry. If there are two, well...how many are there?

[ September 24, 2002: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[Bêthberry]

Erebor could use someone to play a servant who is also the King's eyes and ears. That would save me doing both the servant and the King.

But if Susan's need is greater, give her the help. smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[Susan Delgado]

Bethberry has a specific place to put another character, whereas I would just have an ordinary last-minute inclusion on the trip. So it seems to me Bethberry's need is greater. smilies/smile.gif

[*Varda*]

Mithadan, I tried PMing you, but you have too many messages and it wouldn't let me. What's up?

[Thenamir]

Backstory and setup for the first post for the Blue Mountain Dwarves -- better late than never!! Sorry for the delays!

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

*** Blue Mountains ***


The dwarves of the Blue Mountains, though they were not the equals of the original dwarves of Moria for sheer building size and scope, nevertheless had a long and proud history.

"It came to pass during the second age of the captivity of Melkor that Dwarves came over the Blue Mountains of Ered Luin into Beleriand. Themselves they named Khazâd, but the Sindar called them Naugrim, the Stunted People, and Gonnhirrim, Masters of Stone."

The ancient cities of Belegost and Nogrod were there, until they were destroyed at the breaking of Morgoth's fortress of Thangorodrim. Telchar the Dwarf, the forger of the great sword Narsil, came from Nogrod, and the weapons forged by the dwarves of those days were unsurpassed, though their craft declined somewhat over the ages since. The dwarves of the Blue Mountains aided Finrod in excavating and building the stronghold of Nargothrond. Eöl, the renowned elvish smith, learned much of his craft from the Dwarves of the Blue Mountains.

"At its greatest Arnor included all Eriador, except the regions beyond the Lune, and the lands east of Greyflood and Loudwater, in which lay Rivendell and Hollin. Beyond the Lune was Elvish country, green and quiet, where no Men went; but Dwarves dwelt, and still dwell, in the east side of the Blue Mountains, especially in those parts south of the Gulf of Lune, where they have mines that are still in use."

And so, in the renewed kingdom of Gondor and Arnor, the Blue Mountains and their inhabitants were summoned to the King…

Now in those days, in the immediate aftermath of the War of the Ring, the dwarven miners of the Blue Mountains were a proud and fierce people, even compared to other dwarves. Though loyal to their own brotherhood, they cared little for the doings and dealing of the outside world, now that the threat of Sauron was eliminated, though being so far from the war, they themselves took little part. It seemed good to them to select a new king from amongst themselves, and to redevelop the trade for which they were once renowned, but to otherwise not meddle in the affairs of men and elves (nor to tolerate meddling in their own affairs). And so it came to pass that the arrival of the Summons from King Elessar Telcontar raised great suspicions in their minds. Not knowing him well, and knowing the treachery of certain other men, they were inclined to ignore the summons altogether. Their king, however, cautioned them that this was the King Elessar who had just defeated the armies of Mordor (so they thought), and how could they stand against so powerful a foe if they should make an enemy of him? Better to attend and let their fears be made known than to spurn a powerful king.

So they set about selecting who would represent them at the great council, itself no small debate. For there were those who would open their realm to greater input and trade, and those who wished to close their society to all except traders. The selection would take time, and much loud debate, which only got louder when the ale was served…

[*Varda*]

Woohoo! Thenamir, you're here! Did you get the PM of the profile I sent you? Even though it was kind of brief and not completely finished.

[Mithadan]

Varda, glad you're still hanging in there. Let's see what Joy has to say after the "blessed event" and we'll decide how to proceed.


Everyone! Please preface every post with the name of your team to avoid confusion.

[ September 24, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

[Thenamir]

Yes Varda, got your PM, and wrote your character into the "first post" -- you gave me plenty to work with. Still haven't heard from Joy -- "blessed event"?? Are congratulations in order?

Theron IV Axehand

[Mithadan]

See above. Thenamir, Joy may or may not be playing and Varda expects to be away for a week during the game. You may have to play one or more characters during the duration. Are you up for it? If so, let's role with what we have. Maybe we can get help as we go forward.

[Bêthberry]

This is intoxicating. I will have to write myself into the Lonely Mountain contingent. *grin*

Theron, Thorin has sent you a PM. http://www.gamers-forums.com/smilies/otn/other/vikingsmiley.gif

Bethberry

[Carnëiach]

Mithadan, I think due to the decreasing number of people (Including Faye)you need to start recruiting new people asap.

[*Varda*]

Thenamir...I'll also be away over the weekend, but I'll post immediately before I go (Friday lunchtime, my time) and when I get back on Monday. Which should be earlyish.

Sorry about all my disappearances...After my week in France (Friday 4th - Sat 13th) I won't be going anywhere, at any rate while I'm in France I should be able to make at least one post, I hope. I'm sure my french exchange person will have some sort of internet access. smilies/rolleyes.gif I'll make some posts for the week I'm away once we get into the game.

[Mithadan]

OK. Does anyone know of other persons who wish to be involved? We could use one or two, maybe even three.


Oh, and my mailbox has space now. For some reason it keeps filling up lately....

[ September 24, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

[Thenamir]

No problem Varda. See if you can get in a post or two before you leave, so that I can get an idea of how you want to play your character, so that if I write for you I can try to imitate your style at least.

Bethberry -- though sundered by many leagues, I think some hay can be made of the idea that the Blue Mountain Mining Troop might have some claim on Moria. It will make for some interesting "polite conversation" when we meet up in Minas Anor.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong (which happens often) -- didn't Thorin & Co. hang out working in the Blue Mountain mines before Gandalf organized them into the Smaug Extermination Team? If so, that will give the Blue Mountain Mining Troop even closer ties to those who died in Moria -- the news of Balin's death in Moria will come hard.

Theron IV Axehand

[Rimbaud]

I am following the thread with some interest; while it is still in its infancy I can keep up, at any rate! My only suggestion would be that every player mark the top of their posts with their Nation. If those markers could be homogenous also, that would help.

[Guildo]

Ok im new to the RPG thing but i have a question about travel How long does it take to travel through Woods, compared to open land, or Mountains.

[Bêthberry]

Okay, Thenamir. I'll see your Blue Mountain Mining Troup and raise you my Royal Corps of Dwarven Engineers. In Minas Anor. smilies/wink.gif

Bethberry

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Hey, Stephanos me lad.

Hmm.. Mentors, let's all add this equation up.

Players gone missing.
Some characters need mature adult writers.
Interesting and complex game.

Rimbaud:
Excellent and quirky writer..
Participated in the original Party (the smaller one) thread, generating Random Events..
Adult.. certainly old enough to Kayak..
Has been following story..

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
Psst... Mithadan, you cut off the front door, Pio's got the back. Birdie, Child, everyone, you tackle 'im - I've got the ropes.

NOW!!!!

[ September 24, 2002: Message edited by: Marileangorifurnimaluim ]

[Mithadan]

He's hired if you can talk him into it.

[Bêthberry]

*coughs politely*

Maril, the lineup starts behind Susan and me. *smiles*

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Does everyone agree with me that Nurn would be a real mess? I posited the following in the Dale/Jarl discussion group.


I expect the situation in Nurn will get ugly, so we need things to start out pretty bright. I mean, Nurn is on the verge of civil war.

You did know that Nurn is on the verge of civil war, did you not? Yeah. No one else does either. The fleeing refugees will be the first clue.

What do you expect of a country that was half enslaved (how do you think the slave half feels about the non-slave? How did the non-slave half manage to avoid it?), overrun with fleeing orcs, environmentally damaged, which had a Dark Lord for how long, who thought it amusing to play one person against another. He would promote one family, knowing full well it would cause envy and suspicion, then watch that family get torn down by their own friends. A real sociopath. Toyed with these people before he got absorbed in his war. Worst yet, Nurn has loyalists to the Dark Lord, who have gone underground into secret societies. Though there are also public hangings of those who were Mordor's agents... oh yes, Nurn is not a nice place, not a nice place at all. They have no leader for King Elessar to invite.

Whose dumb idea is it to go there? Herurim's? Jarl, who doesn't know any better?

[Rimbaud]

*Rimbaud looks flattered but, slippery as the proverbial eel, evades their grasping fingers and dives for the door.*

My apologies; the powers-that-be have decided that our company will run more smoothly with fewer employees and a 500% increase in workload. I wouldn't like to make a promise I couldn't keep.

Thanks for the flattery, Maril. I'll ask you out for a drink some time, given the proximity of Seattle and London.
smilies/wink.gif

[Carnëiach]

well, it seems susan is no longer in the queue- faye has rturned. Shes posted on the shire discussion and she said shes tried PMiong u mithadan.

[Mithadan]

I've reviewed the first day's posts. Excellent job everyone!

As matters stand, I think that Thenamir, Bethberry and perhaps Piosenniel could use add a player. Advise if you know of anyone!

[Mithadan]

Mentors, please post here listing the names of any participants who have not yet posted. Also, PM your teams, please and suggest that they check the general Discussion Thread as well as their own countries' thread.

Let's proceed people! You'll never make it to Gondor in 44 days at this rate!

*Crack! Snap!

[ September 25, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Brinniel has not yet posted for Harad, but she has been in touch with myself and with Alk. I am hoping that her post will go up tonight on the discussion thread. sharon

[Bêthberry]

Anarya Silverbranch has just sent me her first post, which I will review shortly. With luck, if she can get access later, she should be able to post it tonight.

A serious RL emergency delayed her response. We have RL lives, too, Mithadan, not just VL.

Bethberry

[Mithadan]

A serious RL emergency delayed her response. We have RL lives, too, Mithadan, not just VL

Believe me. I'm quite aware of that.

[Bêthberry]

If Susan still defers to Erebor's need and if Thenamir does not need help, I think it would be great to have Rose Cotton at Lonely Mountain, if she would want to join us. smilies/smile.gif

[ September 25, 2002: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Thenamir]

*joy* has not posted, but of course we knew that in advance, and are still holding her place for her.

[GreatWarg]

* GreatWarg decides Mithadan should never have a whip again. *

I'm still waiting for my fellows to post again, and also His WIghtness. I am quite sure Mr. BW knows how to get us to Minas Tirith in 44 days! That sounds like around the world in 80 days!

[Mithadan]

*Mithadan looks around the Lonely Star for a whip*

[Thenamir]

Thenamir, with a helpful expression on his face, hands Mithadan a wire whip, such as is used for beating eggs and whipping cream.

Mith: Any problem with the Blue Mountain Mining Crew meeting up with the Shire Hobbit Contingent, since we pretty much have to travel thru the Shire anyway? We'd have to make good time, but then again, since we are the furthest from the White City (except perhaps for some in the Rhun Nation) we would have received our summons' last, and therefore need to really hot-foot it to make up time.

If this is a problem, I can easily withdraw my proposal. Just want to make sure I am not getting in the way of some larger schemes...

[Mithadan]

Hook up with Susan Delgado. She is the Mentor of the Shire crew. If she says OK, its fine with me!

[Belin]

Rats, we almost had him.

I thought the Hobbits were going with us Rivendellians? Or did you WANT to travel with elves?

--Belin Ibaimendi
(yes, I'm working on it now! *ducks whip*)

[ September 25, 2002: Message edited by: Belin ]

[Susan Delgado]

No reason we can't all travel together, Belin. Hobbits and Dwarves and Elves, oh my! smilies/eek.gif

For the record, I have no objections to travelling with the Blue Mountain Crew, Thenamir. Glad to have you smilies/smile.gif

[Thenamir]

SusanDelgado: I assume your path is going to lead you to Bree, then southon the Greenway? How about if we catch up to you in Bree, after stopping to pay our respects to Mayor Samwise in Michel Delving? Don't get there too fast -- our ponies are built for strength, not speed...

[Susan Delgado]

That sounds fine, Thenamir.

[Carnëiach]

Hobbbits and dwarves and elves....oh yeah!

this is really gonna be interestin. I can just picture the elves when we turn up with a merry mob of dwarves...

oh, fayes back

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Hi Rimbaud - we're practically neighbors. smilies/rolleyes.gif You gave us the slip this time, but you won't get away forever.

Is anyone else finding themselves checking three discussion threads plus answering multiple PMs? Or is this situation unique to the Jarl/Garlin/Garvin (and now Ethar) team? I've almost forgotten about the game itself. RPG? What RPG?

[Elenna]

I feel the same way. It's kind of like the game has taken a backseat. I'm sure that situation won't last long, once we get going.

And to all of the hobbits, dwarves, and anyone else who has to cross the Misty Mountains: The Rivendell crew would like to travel with you, but can't wait forever. There are only so many "packing" posts a person can sanely accomplish.

[Elenna]

I know of someone who would be good:

Shadow_staar - She was involved in the Rivendell RPG with me, and I know her in RL. Her spelling and grammar aren't so great, but she is really, really creative and has a lot of good ideas.

Mithadan: Celebmornie hasn't PMed me with her character yet, so she may not be posting for a while.

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Pio and Child have very kindly decided to post everything regarding my Gramil character in the Dale thread - which means the 'thread hunting' is transferred mostly to Child, so I'm not sure it's a solution. But thank you. I was asking the question mostly in relation to how we can avoid such a cumbersome process for all, not really to simplify my own reading.

-Maril

[Rose Cotton]

Hi everyone! I'm with Bethberry now as you might have seen in the RPG.
I've never been a dwarf before. Actually I've never been anything but a hobbit. So Mithadan, if my charicter starts acting like a hobbit you have permition to whack me with your whip.
See you all in Gondor!

[Mithadan]

Elenna, see if Shadow_star is interested. Mentors, I know you've sent me multiple PMs/e-mails. I will try to sort matters out Monday. Thenamir, how are things? Have you heard from Joy? Do you need help/more participants?

Does anyone know of a good cable-layer in Australia?

Sincerely, "The King of Wishful Thinking"

[Bêthberry]

A site's reach must exceed its grasp,
Else what's a Mithadan for?

And that's a compliment. smilies/smile.gif

[Child of the 7th Age]

Mith -- Regardig Harad..... Alkanoonion said they gave him some sort of a temporary line so he's up and running again. Yeah! They still have to lay down the permanent cable. sharon

[*Varda*]

I don't know if Joy's going to come back or not, but it's been almost a week and I haven't heard from her.

[Mithadan]

Shadow_Staar has asked to join. Which team is in the most desparate need for an additional player?

[*Varda*]

I would say the Blue Mountains, it really is just me and Thenamir posting at all. But perhaps another team needs a player more, I've been away and I'm not completely up to date yet.

[Shadow_Staar]

HI, im sry this is really REALLY LATE!!!
But Elenna said i mite be able to join, so if you need another player, im all yours!!
So PM if i can join...
thanx

~Shadow

[*Varda*]

Mithadan, I've spoken to Thenamir and we both think it would be helpful if Shadow_Staar joined us. I really don't think Joy is coming back, and that just leaves me and Thena.

[Mithadan]

Done! Contact Shadow_Staar and introduce yourself. Give her an idea of what's going on and where things are going.

Thenamir, please contact Shadow_Staar as well. She may wish to read at least the basics from the Discussion thread, i.e. the backstories and the rules.

[The Barrow-Wight]

Everyone needs to remember to label your posts with your team title (i.e. * * * * Rhûn Nation * * * * *, ^^^^^^ Lonely Mountain ^^^^^, etc.)

Please use the edit feature to go back and add your title to each of the posts that are missing them.

Thanks

[Mithadan]

As we're a bit more than 2 weeks into the game, I'd like to hear how everyone is doing? Comments, questions, complaints, concerns?

[Susan Delgado]

Has it been two weeks already? It feels like we just started!

[Elenna]

We practically HAVE just started - all of us at Rivendell haven't even gotten on the road yet!

And I for one am a bit confused about what the rest of you are doing - maybe we should all post a summary of our actions to date.

[ October 04, 2002: Message edited by: Elenna ]

[The Barrow-Wight]

Actually, next Tuesday will be day 15, so we're not quite two week into it yet. Still, it does seems as if the going has been slow.

Here's a summary of what's happened to the Rhûn Nation group.

The Great Captain of Rhûn assigned his Chief Advisor, Kasteni, to respresent the Ozren people. Kasteni chose three warriors to accompany him, but he also brought an eleven-man cavalry guard for protection. They took a couple days to prepare and leave the city. On the evening of their first night out, within site of a safe haven along the highway, they were attacked by a pack of were-bears. Three of the horsemen were killed, but none of the characters were seriously injured. Presently, the survivors are fleeing the scene of the attack and hope to make it to the safety of the nearby highway hostel. They are still nowhere close to the lands familiar to the rest of the RPG groups.

[ October 04, 2002: Message edited by: The Barrow-Wight ]

[Elenna]

OK, here's Rivendell's summary.

Meneciriel, Elladan, Elrohir, and Fanelen are currently getting ready to leave for Minas Tirith. The group dynamics are a bit awkward, and we've spent a lot of time tripping over each other physically and figuratively. We were eating what we thought would be our last dinner in Rivendell when a hobbit messenger arrived requesting that we wait for the arrivals of the Shire and Blue Mountain delegations. Needless to say, nobody is very pleased with Meneciriel for agreeing, thus permitting dwarves to join the group.

[Bêthberry]

The Kingdom of Erebor Under the Mountain has spent some time defining itself and a regular posting routine, with the King finally deciding to join the journey. We are slowly but surely developing some good character interaction as we get to know each other. Two days ago, we set out for a three days' journey to a site predetermined for a fateful meeting with elves. Along the way we attempted a story contest, which was handled by some comic relief.

It wasn't the elves which caused our sorrow, but an accident with pony and wagon on a steep slope. Several of the party are bruised with minor injuries while one member was killed. We have yet to show final dwarven respects.

And we are wondering why the elves have not come forward to help with the accident and are shortly expecting the Men of Dale to appear. No one is exactly comfortable with this arrangement.

A long river trip down the Anduin appears on our horizon as the Mirkwood isn't our cup of tea, so we will be discovering what kind of sea legs dwarves have.

Bethberry,
press secretary for
Thorin III Stonehelm

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Yes... Bethberry has about summed it up for us poor old Erebor dwarves. How many days do we have? I lost count a while back..

When you're all alone in the lands of forever, lay under the Milky Way. On and on, its getting too late out. I'm not alone this time, this night

Aylwen
smilies/biggrin.gif

[Susan Delgado]

45, wasn't it?

The Shire delegation is riding down the Old Forest Road. The younger Hobbits seem to have developed a conspiracy of comfort and muffins against their leader, who's been less than absolutely friendly to them.

[ October 04, 2002: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[piosenniel]

Dale, Eryn Lasgalen and The Lonely Mountain group are now seven days journey from the Anduin. Once they reach the River, barring any problems (mwahaha! smilies/evil.gif ) they will be 15 days travel time from Minas Anor!

[Carnëiach]

yup thats right, a conspiracy of muffins, the best type!

anyway, sorry about the delay getting to you Elenna, were going slow so the dwarves can catch up...which they should be doing soon...VERY soon...
Dwarves; can you do a sort of time laps thing to get you here soon? see, weve been travelling for 2 weeks and arent even that far from the shire! Im not going to post yet, as its going to be a bit samey until you get here...pleeeeease hurry up!

[Bêthberry]

Calling all men of Dale and elves of Mirkwood,

Now, we have to regroup and discuss some things here, since the three contingents have just repelled the giant spiders.

Birdie, how are you going to handle the lost of your plucky elven lass? I say you guys need to take the upper hand here in leading the discussion.

Pio, are the men of Dale ever going to say anything to the dwarves and elves?

BTW, Ms-I'm-doing-the-disasters-in-place-of-Mithadan,
doesn't it strike you as a tad over-reaching to claim that the spiders got ALL the horses and ponies? *grins*

I'm assuming that we discuss the forward movement here, but if Dale and Mirkwood don't reply, then Erebor will move us forward.

Bethberry

[piosenniel]

Dwarves

If you will re-read the last spider line - not ALL are going to be eaten but you must decide whether you want to take the time to chase them, or not.

Sorry if the onslaught of the spiders surprised you - It was probably my mistake in thinking the mentors could throw obstacles in for their group.

Would you like me to remove the battle scenes and we'll regroup on the road, half-way to the Ford? I have no problem editing what I've written.

[Susan Delgado]

I for one liked the Spider attack. It was very exciting.

I don't see why the Mentors can't create obstacles, but I suppose it's ultimately up to Mithadan.

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Hey, let's not forget the visiting contingent from Dale in Harad: Jarl and Garlin, and the Harad trade rep, Gramil.

Jarl and Gramil met by accident when Jarl was learning to ride oliphaunts.

The King Fuinur bungled the meeting with Jarl, leaving him to wait at his hotel for a month, no contact, then skipping town to capture ships. At least Jarl's assistant, Garlin got to see the bazaar - a wild sight it is. Gramil tried to get out of being the trade contact (he's retired), but was unable. Gramil's sent his family/staff (hello nepotism) to gather supplies for the trip to Nurn & then Minas Arnor. Gramil and Jarl have both paid spies to gather information on eachother. Ethar, Gramil's assistant, is spying on Gramil for Urken the Bear of Umbar. Jarl and Gramil met formally at the world's worst party. Ethar and Garlin got into trouble with a Rhunian free-sword. Garlin saved Ethar's neck, but the city guard came after them. Garlin nearly got roughed up by the guard for looking like someone of Gondor. And the merchants are ticked off about the damage done to their tent during the fight with the free-sword. Everyone's agreed it's time to get out of dodge. We're going to Nurn. Tomorrow. Finally.

[Bêthberry]

Oh, I agree completely, Susan, that the spider attack is great. And of course the mentors can throw in obstacles for their kingdoms. Earlier, I had added an accident for my dwarves. The problem is one of coordinating three different kingdoms and communicating our intentions.

I had assumed that this was just an adventure along the way and, like Barrow Wight with his attack of the were-bears, was expecting the battle to last longer. I had posted accordingly and was PMing strategy to the dwarves. However, Pio was using the attack as a wakeup call to her contingent which is slow to post. When they didn't post, they were penalized. However, the Erebor dwarves were posting. They were caught in the "friendly fire", so to speak. That was the basis of my comments.

We need some "forward scouts", LOL, to help direct this thing if the three kingdoms are going to travel together.

Bethberry

[Child of the 7th Age]

Harad/Umbar

We have finally captured our ships and will be moving out of the port at Umbar. We have lost one of our two kings due to non-posting, but are dragging his character along. Perhaps, we will make a suitable "sacrifice" somewhere along the way. That means it's just myself and Alk. interacting which makes the posting slow at times. Maril is travelling the Nurn route with Jrl of Dale plus Urken's spy.

However, as we'll be travelling by sailing ship, we should make some good time: 7.2 miles per hour (per the Atlas when going against the current), 24 hours a day, for a total of about 950 miles. That would be 175 miles per day. (Yeah for sailing ships which are very speedy!) That gets us to Minas Anor in five and a half days.

However, there should be a few stopovers along the way. There's a Corsair ship ahead of us we need to keep from raiding the villages along the Anduin as it does not makefor good "pr" for Harad. Plus I have a feeling the "natives" will not be happy to see us coming down the river with two more Corsair vessels, even if or intentions are different. I would anticipate one or two roadblocks along the way.

But, if I were you, I would hurry along as this Urken the Bear looks like a shady character, and I have no idea what he might do should the Harad delegation arrive first in Minas Anor!

sharon

[ October 06, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Bêthberry]

PIZZA PARTAY

Hey, everyone participating in the RPG An Audience with the King. Come on to the Erebor/ Lonely Mountain discussion thread this Saturday, October 12, from 1 to 4 pm EDT, for a pizza party. We can talk about the game, get to know what everyone is doing, AND, get a little rapid-action interactive posting done on the game thread.

Your hosts,
Aylwen Dreamsong, Rose Cotton, Cuthalion (if he ever shows up), and Bethberry
http://www.dominos.com/C1256B420054FF48/vwContentByKey/E5912461AE8EEDEA87256B4C006FD0B1/$FILE/pizzas_1b.gif

PS. This carries Mithadan's stamp of approval, but he probably thinks I'm crazy.

[ October 08, 2002: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Mithadan]

but he probably thinks I'm crazy.

No. He definitely thinks you are crazy. smilies/wink.gif Enjoy, nonetheless.

Rhun, Harad and Blue Mountains Teams: Maybe its time for our participants to learn about compressing time. I'm counting real time days. You can fit more than one virtual day of travel into one real day.

Shire team: Whoops! Sorry! smilies/evil.gif

[Rimbaud]

Such a meeting would seem more appropriate in Chat, no?

[Bêthberry]

For Rhovanian veterans, no doubt, yes, Rimbaud, but for us on AAwtK, posts here would be preferable, especially since the purpose of the game is to get away from chat-style, frivolous RPGs. It would also be good to see the gamers using their discussion threads more to stage their games, moving between the game and discussion threads.

Also, I still cannot get into chat. Java is still denying me access (I have just sent an email to nospoof about this.) and last night's attempts on mIRC ALSO produced denied access through socery.net. I did get into channel 1 through a German server, but about all I accomplished was talking to myself trying to figure out how to get to 08. It was not a particularly entertaining or enlightening conversation. smilies/wink.gif

Bethberry

[ October 08, 2002: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Carnëiach]

Aww poor beth. I know the talking to yourself in an empty chat room feeling. and join the club. My unbelievably annoying and lame computer doesnt let me into chat rooms. What time is 1-4pm EDT in british time?

[Rimbaud]

EDT is GMT -5, so 1-4pm EDT is 6-9pm GMT.

[Carnëiach]

thanx rimbaud. ill try to, um, persuade my dad to let me on.

[Elenna]

I can probably come to the pizza party for a little while, but not for long. I have a pizza party of my own with my friend Marty right after that! TOO MUCH PIZZA!

[Carnëiach]

ah u lucky americans and ure frequent pizza parties....and actually all other people with ure pizza parties...man, i want pizza!

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Pizza??? I'll be there. But I warn you, I'm a slow writer. smilies/smile.gif

Mithadan/Shire - LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL ROFL!

Mith, heh. It has taken over two weeks to go through three days in Harad. But it's likely we're not going to make it all the way to Nurn: Al-Gareth has already left Nurn and is stealthily travelling south. The team is working on how Al-Gareth is going to meet our Oliphaunts.

Guys, I'm just beaming over the Nurn part of our story. I can't help it. I really enjoyed writing such an ugly story from such an innocent children's point of view.

[ October 08, 2002: Message edited by: Marileangorifurnimaluim ]

[Bêthberry]

Well, Maril, you can demonstrate slow and I can demonstrate typos, LOL. Maybe I can come up with a game of duelling edit buttons or something like that. The point is just to provide a chance to connect and enjoy posting that way. smilies/smile.gif

Bethberry

[ October 08, 2002: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[Susan Delgado]

I can make it to the pizza party too! smilies/smile.gif

So, Mith, were those muffins really a crutch, limiting our creativity and grammatical skills while at the same time giving us inadequite nutrition and cavities? Or did you just like your description of the ant army marching to battle? smilies/smile.gif

[ October 08, 2002: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[Bêthberry]

Just remember, Carnëiach, there is only one slice for each post on the game thread! smilies/wink.gif

Looking forward to seeing you both, Elenna and Susan.

Bethberry

[Nevtalathiel]

I'd love to come, but I can't make it; my parents are going away and I'm staying with friends, so no internet for over 4 days smilies/eek.gif . Save me a slice of pizza please smilies/wink.gif

[Child of the 7th Age]

Bethberry --

Wish I could come but unfortunately can not due to family commitments. Sorry. smilies/confused.gif

sharon

[Carnëiach]

dang, limited pizza? man, i knew thered be a catch!

[Amanaduial the archer]

hey all.

It carn, but thanks to mithadans restoration of my password (thankyou thankyou thankyou mithadan!) I have my old account back, so Ill be using it. If u wanna PM me or something, do it to Amanaduial not carn.
thanks
lol
aman

[Thenamir]

Mithadan -- I compressed 4 days worth of travel into a single post. Is that good enough compression for ya? smilies/biggrin.gif


To Marileangorifurnimaluim:

Your writing speed would improve tremendously if you would just shorten your name. It probably takes a week just to introduce yourself!

[ October 11, 2002: Message edited by: Thenamir ]

[Elenna]

I like Maril's name! Personally, I just consider her "Maril", but it's really cool to have such a long name.

I'll only be able to attend the pizza party for a little while, but I'll be there. My favorite kind is Greek (feta cheese and olives) but I eat pretty much anything.

[Guildo]

YUM YUM PIZZA IN MY TUMM

Il be there send me a slice of Pineapple and extra cheese.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Marileangorifurnimaluim is a cool name, but if you had to shout it to stop the host of a party turning and staying invisible.... erm, sorry, never mind... My name isnt exatly short anyway, at three words, but thats cos in real life my name is all of 3 letters...

[Amanaduial the archer]

how long til the pizza part starts? see im not sure on the time difference?
Or has it started?

[Bêthberry]

Go to the Lonely Mountain discussion thread.

[Amanaduial the archer]

thankyou beth im going now *rubs hands in anticipation*

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

LOL, Aman, you remembered that! smilies/biggrin.gif

Thenamir, for brevity's sake you may call me 'M.' Most people just say gesundheit anyways. smilies/wink.gif

Okay, folks, we're off.

[Alkanoonion]

Is it possible for us students to get a grade on how we are progressing with the RPG, are we living up to expectations or are we woefully inadequate? smilies/smile.gif

[piosenniel]

FYI:

I believe we are about 22 days now into the game, real time.

That leaves 23 days, realtime, to get the troops to the Audience.

One other point:

We are all headed to Minas Anor, in Gondor. ARNOR is a quite different location - far north of Gondor.

[Amanaduial the archer]

23 days left?! argh, we arent even at rivendell yet!

[Elenna]

Alkanoonion - Ask your mentor how you're doing. They'll be happy to tell you!

[Tharkûn]

Meril and Pio,

I'll wait for a new post on the game thread from either of you before I do my next post.

Tharkûn

[Child of the 7th Age]

Alk --

Check out the Harad thread and look for a pm. See you later.

sharon

[Mithadan]

Almost since this game has started, I have received a flood of comments which evolved into complaints from nearly all the Mentors.

These comments are:

1. Players are not posting regularly, and sometimes not at all;

2. Players are not putting effort into the RPG;

3. Players are not posting unless prodded into responding to posts by the Mentors;

4. Players are not running their own characters, let alone the game, and are relying upon the Mentors to advance the story;

5. The Mentors are forced to be in charge of the game and the Players merely tag along.

Its gut-check time. This game is an experiment. It is part of a conscious effort to improve the level of posting and RPGing in this forum using the Mentors to try and help Players rise to the occaision. While some Players have responded, many others have not and some have "voted with their feet".

The idea was to have the Players run the game themselves with an occaisional post or behind the scenes comment by the Mentors. Instead, the Mentors have been forced to run the game, guiding the action and movements of their teams and sometimes doing the lion's share of posting.

The Mentors have invested significant time in this game as volunteers. They have no desire to act as hall monitors for recalcitrant students. Some question whether the game should even continue due to the apparent lack of interest by the Players in advancing the game.

What do the Players have to say? Is this a failed experiment? Was it too complicated? Are you all willing to dedicate a little time to make the game work? Are you willing to actively run your characters and your teams, letting the Mentors settle into the sidelines? Because if you are not willing, I am not sure this game should continue.

My initial reaction to all these complaints was to shut the RPG thread and post this to see if there would be any positive response. At the request of a few Mentors, I have left the RPG thread open -- FOR NOW.

Let's hear it people! Speak now or forever hold your peace!

[*Varda*]

Keep it open! I haven't been putting enough time into the RPG, I must admit, but being away and things made it difficult. I will from now on!

Come on people! post!

Varda

[Ringwraith Number Two]

Please keep the thread open..I've depended on Susan a little, but from now on, I will run my character as actively and as independently as possible, and put more time into the RPG.

The RPG is very interesting, I don't think it is too complicated, and it is a wonderful way to let new roleplayers learn. Please keep it open!

[Amanaduial the archer]

a rousing speech mithadan!

dont close it please, im actually about to post now. I just didnt for a while due to a latin project. sos.

[Guildo]

well First of all im having a blast with this RPG and it is improving my creative writing skills.

Second My Mentor stayes pretty busy which is understandable so she isnt always there to help, but i have recieved good help from Mentors outside my Realm.

Third my only other partner ran in to dificulty posting and is unable to play at this time.

So to Sum things up I am the only one playing for my Realm, Im on my own. BUT im enjoying it greatly

So i would like to see what happens at the end of this story, but even if you do decide to close it i would like to say this has been an enjoyable experienced and i cant wait to get involved in my "Second" RPG

[Cuthalion]

This a magnificent RPG! The quality and depth of thought that has thus far gone into it is quite good IMHO. Leave the thread open.

As for myself, Bethberry knows why I have not been able to participate, now that I am however, I look forward to seeing it through to the end. My thanks to all those who had the vision to attempt such an undertaking.

[Elenna]

Rivendell's problem at this time is this: we really don't have anything to do. This isn't your fault, Shirefolk and Blue Mountain dwellers.

However, I would like my players to at least post in the discussion forum for Rivendell so I at least know you're alive! And maybe we can all try to do some character development?

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Keep it open! hehehe. I don't think the dwarves of Erebor have depended upon Bethberry tooooooo much, but she does play one of the main characters, as in the beginnning we has trouble with one of our members. She is a great Mentor, and she has great suggestions! Please keep it open? I have a limited time on the computer for a week or two more, and I have been spending it working on this RPG. Its worth it, I promise!!

[ October 16, 2002: Message edited by: Aylwen Dreamsong ]

[Celebmornie]

I am at School all day then i am only allowed to have limited time on the net so i am tring! Please dont close it!

[Amanaduial the archer]

Yay! We're here! At Rivendell!

[Elenna]

Halleluia! Now we elves won't have to spend all our time TRIPPING OVER EACH OTHER!

[Alkanoonion]

Please do not close the RPG, I have been posting only once a day but I am trying to put substance into my post. For each post that I submit, I have spent at least 2 hrs preparing and reading to my sister for her input and ideas on how my character should evolve. This is not an easy exercise but with time and effort I am sure that this will be the best RPG on the board. Lets all take pride in our work and start enjoying this experience, as for losing people, well if they want to waste such a unique opportunity than that’s their loss. Also the mentors are doing a great job, Thank you Child of the 7th Age for all your help.

[Tharkûn]

Mithadan,

Please keep the thread open. I admit that I haven't been posting every day, but I have my hands wrapped up in school work, and since I'm in the substory with Pio and Maril, I haven't had much to do with the main story.

Tharkûn

[*Varda*]

I'm also one of those people who don't post every day. I just don't have the time. I have a lot of schoolwork, and to spend two hours a night preparing a post would just mess it all up. I post as often as I can and make it as good as I can get it.

[VanimaEdhel]

Mithadan: Please, please keep this open! I know that I can only post about once or twice a day, but it is still one of the best RPG's I belong to now!

[piosenniel]

MITHADAN

I intend for both the southern and northern approach parties from Dale to be at the audience with King Elessar. I would appreciate the game staying open until then.

Thanks! -- Pio, the competitive

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Hi.

I've really enjoyed the creative writing and collaborating with such talented and imaginative people.

I've teetered between being challenged by the collaborative part (Chez moi? A control freak? No...) and the discovery that for me, to put the effort to keep the game alive and interesting, I really need to post every other day. I'm a slow writer, and I can spend hours on one post. I'm currently cornered in some sloppy writing I did late at night just-to-get-the-post-done-'cause-I-said-I-would. Gramil is now headed for Minas Anor for no particular reason. *Sigh* I'm not usually so careless.

In my opinion, yes, the game is too cumbersome. Estelyn was following it, and in chat she likened it to War and Peace - in a good way. She likes Tolstoy. But it is hard to follow. Having other stories interspersed randomly breaks up the flow and makes it difficult to jump off of another person's writing, and it doesn't have the feel of most RPGs I've seen. We're not accomplishing our goal in that sense. I think that is the main reason people aren't running with the ball.

If we were to do it all over again, I'd suggest we have groups of four take different stories, or even the same story in different threads. (Four different interpretations of Jarl.. hm.)

The best feature of the game is the time limit. Most people can stick to their guns for a certain period of time.

In the future, I'd make the time period slighty shorter: either 21 or 30 days. Tops.

In fact, since we find ourselves asking this question at the 21-day mark, that is a good indicator of how long the mentored games should run. Those who are 'into' RPGing (is that a verb?) will want to get into something meatier by then (ahem). Those who find it doesn't work for them will know by then.

We are not spending enough time on the discussion threads!

I think Pio in particular is overworked. She is doing Jarl, Girion, Rubin too I think, and is doing a lot of work on the Lonely Star (I saw 13 posts in a row with her name on them, clearly she was the dealer in that card game). These are all Primary characters in the Dale AND Harad story lines.

The only way to avoid having the work fall on the more experienced Mentors is to not have them play major characters in the game. That traps them. Of course the more experienced players in any kind of game will be handed the ball. Their efforts should be devoted instead to the discussions, and a minor, if valuable, character at most.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the king looked into the Palantir...

Wow. That was long-winded and rambling. To sum up:
Let's keep going
Next time let's have the following changes
Shorter - 21 to 30 days
Smaller - teams of 4 or 5, one simple story line (even if 5 teams take the same story in five different threads, eh?)
Mentors in smaller roles
More emphasis on discussion

[ October 16, 2002: Message edited by: Marileangorifurnimaluim ]

[Susan Delgado]

That's the best suggestion I've heard all week, Maril. I like the idea of having all the teams do the same story; they'd be able to read the other threads and see how different people interpret the same data, and learn from it, probably better than any other suggestion I've heard.

In the beginning, I said (to myself, if no one else) that this time around was really mostly a trial run, so we could see what worked and what didn't and now we've gotten to a point where we can say fairly defintively what those are. I like the size of the individual teams as they are now, but I would defintely have prefered to take a more backseat role. In my introductory post, I tried to do just that, but my players didn't pick up on it (no fault of yours, guys, I guess I just wan't clear enough) so I ended up with a character.

I also agree that the one huge game thread breaks up the stories too much; it makes it very hard for a particular team to build up drama and tension, for example. I would prefer either individual threads for each team, or a very much simpler storyline.

[Rose Cotton]

A wonderfull idea like this should not go wasted. I've known for a long time that I've been dependent on others. That is actually the one skill I need to work on.

But now I'll try to post more and carry my own weight. Thanks for giving us another chance.

Once more unto the breach, dear friends, Once more!

[Child of the 7th Age]

Maril,

I agree with a number of your suggestions on ways we might consider structuring such mentored games in the future.

Because there were only three per delegation, things get critical if one backs out. This happened with Harad, and is the reason why I ended up being a character instead of an onlooker and critic. I'm enjoying it, however, and do not have any gripes about changing my role.

Also, our own delegation chose the option of splitting into two subgroups rather than acting as a unified whole. Looking back, I would do that differently now.

I know Mithadan was concerned about giving too many posters to any one mentor so they would not find themselves burdened under a heavy workload. Ironically, however, I think that more problems come when you have too few posters! My preference would be to see five per group.

Twenty-one days? That may be too short. Let's split the difference at 30.

I also think it would be helpful if we tried this in the summer when younger posters are free from school and homework. I know it isn't always easy to juggle things. Plus, there are always parents. I know since I am one! I have no parent gently batting me on the head to prod me off of the computer. But many out there do.

If I did this again, I would not want to be writing for a central character. Instead, I would be directing the interference and complications for my group, e.g., acting as the pirate ship that raids along the Anduin, or the hawk who eats the pigeon Urken is sending through with a message. I would enjoy such a role, and it would help to focus the action and push the story forward.

One other aside about the "13-posts" of Pio on the Star last weekend. We are mean, cruel taskmasters down there, but we're not that bad! The 13-posts were a collaborative cut and paste effort that took three of us several hours of planning, writing, communicating, and editing. Pio was quite definitely in that mix, and, after editing, pasted in the final posts. So she was collapsing under the table, but at least she had one or two friends collapsing with her as well!

We are seeing the end of that very long story, and I think it's a bit like the horse smelling the hay in the barn.

sharon

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

[*Varda*]

I think part of the problem is, as Child of the 7th Age said, that there isn't really enough people in each group. I think this is part of the reason why it took Blue Mountains so long to get on the road and moving. One person backed out, but we weren't sure if she was coming back or not, as she never informed us and posting kind of ground to a halt.

I think if there were slightly bigger groups next time, it might be easier to keep things flowing should one person be unavailable for a short time.

Varda

[Belin]

I'm here.

I also find it difficult to keep track of all the other groups. I'm enjoying myself a lot and I think I've been posting about as often as necessary (if I'm wrong, someone should let me know). Of course, I need to post again right about now, but I'm very confused by some of the issues that have come from fusing the groups (for instance, it seems to be day, and I thought it was night), and I want to get all of that worked out in my head before I try to write anything that will just suck others into my own confusion. I wonder if this happens to other people; if so, that may be slowing everyone down. But it doesn't mean we're not working on it!

Anyway, welcome to Rivendell, hobbits and dwarves!

--Belin Ibaimendi

[piosenniel]

GENERAL NOTICE FOR DALE/MIRKWOOD/LONELY MOUNTAIN GROUPS

We have now combined our discussion thread into one for those of us Elves, Dwarves, and Men travelling south to Minas Anor together.

Please post all discussion now in The Lonely Mountain discussion thread.

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

[*Varda*]

What's with all the places being held or saved?

Varda

[piosenniel]

VARDA

Some of the players have real life commitments that preclude crafting and posting every day. In order for them to keep their parts of the story line in the flow of events, they save an appropriate place for their posts and then place them when they have time.

Behind this is an ongoing communication with the other members of their storyline so that they can know the general gist of what will be posted, so the storly is able to be moved forward.

[*Varda*]

I was only asking. smilies/smile.gif

Varda

[Marileangorifurnimaluim]

Yes, it does look odd though, doesn't it? I use placeholders quite a lot. There's another reason I use them. Right now I have three characters in three different places, and so to not have to do a three-in-one post (or hog the game with three posts in a row) I put in a placeholder and wait for someone else to post in the game, then put in another placeholder...

-Maril

[Mithadan]

By my count, there are only 10 days left in this game. Lets's check the scorecard at present.

Harad/Unmbar: In Gondor (!)

Dale/Eryn Lasgalen/Lonely Mountain: On the Anduin making their way south.

Rhun: Uh, somewhere out East.

Blue Mountains/Shire/Rivendell: Still in Rivendell (!???? better send in the eagles--they need to get moving).

Am I right on all this? Is anyone ready to meet Elessar? Should the meetings take place in separate threads?

[The Barrow-Wight]

Rhûn isn't going to make it on time. We've lost one player and another is missing. And as you said, we're still waaaaaay out east, still. smilies/frown.gif

[piosenniel]

Harad/Umbar and the southern contingent of Dale are in south Gondor - soon to be in Minas Anor! Possibly by Friday.
The northern approach of Dale, Mirkwood, and the Lonely Mountian will be in Minas Anor by Saturday.

Who will welcome us?

[Susan Delgado]

But the Shire/Blue Mts/Rivendell contingents have barely left Rivendell!

[Bêthberry]

There's rumour of a rumble between the dwarves of Erebor and the Blue Mountains once at Minas Arnor. A real knock 'em down, drag 'em out free for all. smilies/wink.gif

[Alkanoonion]

Everyone! Please preface every post with the name of your team to avoid confusion.

I have noticed that some people are forgetting to do this. Can they please go back and title the post as trying to follow the story is a little hard at the moment.
smilies/smile.gif

[VanimaEdhel]

Oh: Barrow-Wight and I may double or triple post for Rhûn Nation, as it seems that only the two of us are really following. And, Barrow-Wight seems to have a lot of work to do, so it may just be me sometimes.

GreatWarg is still participating, he is just busy. I am too, but apparently not as much as he is. I'll try to come on and move Rhûn Nation along as much as I can.

I just wanted to let you know where Rhûn Nation is stationed and why I may be double, triple or quadruple posting for Rhûn at times and that I'm not just "taking over" for us...

[Mithadan]

HEAR YE! HEAR YE!

Today is the day! 45 days have passed since this RPG began. As we all know, all good things must come to an end. This RPG must also come to an end.

Post now or forever hold your peace. After some reflection, the thread will be kept open until noon tomorrow so that everyone who wishes to may make their last posts. King Elessar and his representatives/guards/jailkeepers may make token appearances where needed and as appropriate to aid in the wrap-up. The final post will be made tomorrow after which this thread will be locked tight (and, under threat of death, namely mine, from the Mentors the key shall be thrown away).

After the RPG thread is closed, please congregate here for the final Q and A and critiques.

Players: be prepared to give us your thoughts on the game, specifically (1) the mentors and their techniques, (2) what you have learned or discovered that you should learn, (3) the game format, and (4) what could be done to make an exercise like this more successful and fun in the future.

Mentors: be prepared to provide similar feedback. Also, please respond to the e-mails which I sent to you all.

If the roleplayers would like personal feedback/critiques/recommendations they should request them from their Mentors via PM or e-mail. The Mentors will not critique the writing or gameplay of their players in this thread. If the players wish to nominate "Best ofs" (Best character, best post, most improved, etc.) they may. There will be no "Worst ofs" (those who went AWOL win these categories hands-down).

Thanks to all the Mentors for their work and patience. To all the roleplayers, I hope that you got something out of this and enjoyed yourselves.

[VanimaEdhel]

Has anyone been in contact with Barrow-Wight? I have not heard from him in a long time, and he's my mentor and all...and GreatWarg, my fellow RPG'er...

I regret to say, if none of you know about them, that Rhûn Nation may have to finish out with one person (yours truly) kind of controlling all three.

[Mithadan]

Then do so Vanima; step into the batter's box and swing away.

EVERYONE:Due to the unfortunately timed service outage, the game is extended through Monday noon, as I am unavailable through the weekend. I will try to jump on where possible, but can't promise anything.

[Aylwen Dreamsong]

Phew thats good Mithadan. I was trying to get to the forum this morning and right after school, and it wouldn't work and I was like "Oh my gosh!" I thought I was the only one that it wasn't working for. LoL. Guess not. Thanks for the extra time... smilies/biggrin.gif


Aylwen

[*Varda*]

Thanks Mithadan! I tried to get on when I got home from school, so I'm relieved for the extra time to sort of wrap things up. smilies/smile.gif

Varda Elentari