[the phantom]

MESPN News
The Phantom

RIVENDELL- As the days pass it is becoming increasingly clear that, shockingly, Elrond will play no part in the team based in Rivendell.

Rumors of alliances based around the newly renovated stadium at Weathertop have been circulating since last season’s playoffs, and after the first few days under the new Arda Cup contract it became clear that Elrond’s primary ownership and playing interests were with that squad.

All signs pointed towards Elrond also wanting to exercise some amount of control over the team in Rivendell, but the other primary investors were evidently bitter about his decision not to sign with his own realm, and they decided to make Rivendell more of a team of the people.

But fans of the house of Elrond need not worry- the children of Elrond have been very vocal about their participation this season, and have all but guaranteed that they’ll be backing and playing for team Imladris. In addition, they’ve been giving winks about signing quality talent to replace their father. “He’s not the only member of his generation that can play,” said Arwen.

Also interesting is Elrohir’s remark yesterday that the “stars shine brighter in Rivendell”, and how that had attracted someone that would help the team immensely. “The deal’s not done and official, so I don’t want to give it away just yet.”

On the issue of Elrond’s squad, it seems that the talk last year wasn’t just talk, as he has been seen emerging from meetings with representatives of Norbury Sport and Angmar Athletic. “We Dunedain have always had a special relationship with our great great uncle,” said Arahael earlier this week. When asked about the inclusion of Angmar and the potential for strife, the chieftain waved it off. “That’s water under the bridge. We’re united now- united in our drive to win.”

Perhaps the most momentous event happened this morning, when Gil-galad and company showed up at the Weathertop stadium offices. When asked about his involvement, Gil-galad said: “Well, I can’t say I’m certain of where I’ll be signing. There’s still paperwork and salary caps to consider. But me and my people are almost certainly in on investing with the team here. This thing has promise.”

While much of northern Eriador is on board, the influential Annuminas Ltd. has its own plans according to various members we've spoken with, including Arvedui, Araphor, and Argeleb. "We're going for a more closely knit and unified squad," said Argeleb. "There will only be one or two 'outsiders' on our team, but even they know our style and have paired with us successfully in the past."

So it appears that Eriador will have four squads (including Shire-Bree United, which other networks have exclusive coverage of). All four seem extremely optimistic about their chances, which perhaps is evidence that the tournament reorganization was successful in bringing increased competitive balance.