* Breelanders All: Planning Thread *

[Child of the 7th Age]

This thread is being opened for the purposes of planning an RPG, which has grown out of an entry in the Chronology, Appendix B of Lord of the Rings.

Its use is restricted to these writers for now:

• Annunfuiniel
  
• Child of the 7th Age (Cami Goodchild)
  
• Nurumaiel
  
• Piosenniel
  
• Beren87
  
• Taralphiel

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No other writers may use this thread.

All posts by those other than those listed above will be deleted.

[ September 17, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Annunfuiniel and Child of the 7th Age invite you to play:

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BREELANDERS ALL!

Historical Background:

The year 1300 of the Third Age was a time of momentous change, much of it for the worse, as the shadow extended its hold over Middle-earth. In this year, the Nazgul reappeared and the chief of these, known as the Witch-King of Angmar, established a stronghold in the northern part of the Misty Mountains. Many hobbits who had lived in this region for some 150 years now fled west towards Bree-land.

In this time of growing distrust and suspicion, intimate contact between differing free peoples was the exception rather than the rule. Yet, somehow, the Big and Little Folk of Bree managed to live together in peace. In this RPG, we would like to speculate how these good relations might actually have developed.


Fictional Background:

Tolkien indicated there were three major groups of hobbits: Fallohide, Harfoot, and Stoor. Most of the hobbits in our story are Fallohide or Harfoot, along with a few Stoor brides who married into these lines.

In our story the original home of the Fallohide hobbits was north of the Hoardale River on the western side of the mountains. These hobbits escaped from the clutches of the Witch King and, joining with their Harfoot kin who were also fleeing westward, settled in the villages of Archet, Combe, and Staddle just north of Bree-hill. Here, they built homes and quietly cultivated the land.

An uneasy truce existed between these smaller communities and Bree, a large trading city settled by the Big Folk. While both the Big and Little Folk preferred to ignore their neighbors, wild rumors abounded, and each side viewed the other with suspicion.

Basic Storyline:

After a few years of relative peace, the real troubles began. In the summer of 1305 Third Age came unusual heat and drought. Since the rains of the autumn were not enough to save the crops, some Hobbits from outlying villages decided to move into Bree and practice their crafts professionally there. But, with the shortage of food, the Hobbits’ timing was as wrong as it could be. Many of the Big Folk defended their territories jealously, resenting the intruders and blaming them for the bad times.

As if that wasn’t bad enough, the Rangers brought the leaders of the Big and Little Folk an alarming message. Several villages in the foothills of the Misty Mountains had been attacked and destroyed by the Orcs and Hillmen months before. These folk migrated westward on the roads, trying to escape the evil forces behind them. Hungry and discouraged, they turning to looting and stealing in order to stay alive in this time of dearth. The main body of refugees waits at Weather Hill. An advance scouting party has been sent to look over the villages and towns ahead of them on the road. Rumor has it that they are now considering an organized attack on Bree, hoping to carry off the riches of its merchants or perhaps even to occupy the town.

Considering that Bree’s ancient defenses--its dike, heavy gate, and thick hedge--are almost ready to collapse, this is dire news. Our story begins when the Rangers call a meeting of all the residents of Bree and surrounding communities to see if they can join together to develop a strategy for defeating the outlaws.

This RPG traces how the Big and Little Folk eventually get beyond their suspicions and jealousies to work together to reinforce Bree's defenses and fight off the brigands’ attack. Each comes to appreciate the contributions of the other making a start towards living together as peaceful neighbors.

[ September 14, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

The purpose of the story is to: Overcome the prejudices and settle the disagreements between Big and Little Folk to get them to work together in defense of Bree.

This means we will know the story is over when: Breelanders reinforce the defenses and physically defeat the enemy.

Starting Location: Bree, but with references to hobbits living in the outlying areas.

Likely destination: Everyone safe behind Bree’s renovated hedge and gate, even those hobbits from the outlying towns, at least until the bandits are defeated.

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Timeframes:

This game takes place in the Third Age, the year 1305 from mid Halimath (~September) to mid Winterfilth (~October).

The storyline itself or plot covers 4-5 weeks.

This game requires a time commitment of 9 weeks from the game owners and from the major players.

[ September 14, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Characters Needed:

• Big Folk of Bree (Race of Man) - 3, no more than 1 female : At least two of these should initially dislike the hobbits.
  
  Little Folk of Bree (Race of Hobbit) – 3, no more than 1 female : At least two of these should initially be very mistrustful of the men.

Suggestions for Constructing a Profile:

Big and Little Folk should choose a realistic occupation such as farmer, cook, miller, peddler, baker, laborer, stable hand, teamster, minstrel, peddler, etc.

We need one of the Big Folk to serve as mayor. If you're interested, pm Annunfuiniel to let her know.

Make sure to say in your profile what your initial opinion will be of the "other" group.

Important:

Each poster who plays a resident of Breeland, Big or Little, must submit a complete profile for their adult character. Use the form below.

Each poster will also create a "carry-along child" of the same race (possibly a sibling group) that you will use in certain sections of the RPG. Just attach a paragraph at the end of your regular profile that includes the following: name, age, race, plus a few words on where they live, what they’ve been taught about the ‘other’ race, and what their thoughts on it are.

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• Outlaws (Race of Men) - 1 - 2 - no more than 1 female.

Again, please include a few words on what happened when their village and/or family was destroyed, and their attitude about attacking Bree.

First posts :

The first posts for hobbits and men should show how your adult character feels about the other group (positive or not), plus your reaction when you hear the news about the threat from the outlaw band and the fact that a joint meeting has been called.

The first posts for the outlaws should show what happened to their familes when the village was destroyed and your feelings about the attack on Bree. . Just how eager are you? Do you see it as a way to get fast treasure or a place to settle down?

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Character types that would not belong: Any not listed above.

[ September 15, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Dedicated Characters:

Annunfuiniel - game founder - will play 2 characters: the hobbits Rosco Woodfarer and Mausi Honeysuckle

Childofthe7thage - game founder - will play 2 characters: Andreth Woolthistle, female, Race of Man, and Kali Honeysuckle, a hobbit child, son of Mausi. She will also make a cameo appearance for Greta, one of the refugees displaced to the Weather Hills.

Beren87 will play 1 character: Minastan Helmman, the human ranger.

Nurumaiel will play 1 character: the child Edmund, son of Andreth (Race of Man.) (cameo).

Piosenniel will play 2 characters: Berilac Woodfarer, the Hobbit ranger and Willem 'Will' Furroweed, child, (Race of Man.

Taralphiel will play 1 character: Lotar, the outlaw leader (Race of Man).

[ September 14, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Annunfuiniel's Character - Rosco Woodfarer

NAME: Rosco Woodfarer

AGE: 47

RACE: Hobbit (Fallohide)

GENDER: male

WEAPONS: Rosco prefers a bow and quiver of arrows. He does own a short sword (a rare genuine hobbit blade; in those rough days Hobbits still knew how to forge weapons) but hasn’t used it for almost five years.

APPEARANCE: Very tall (4'4'') for a hobbit even though hobbits were generally taller back then. Because of his pure Fallohide blood he has light brown, wavy hair. Although his face and hands are tanned, his skin is otherwise fair. Under his eyebrows, which are a shade darker than his hair, sparkles a pair of deep blue eyes. Those who have met him only in business say that nothing but earnestness can be read from his glance, but friends know better - a smile never stays solely on his lips but manifests itself also in his eyes. His other features are further quite un-hobbitlike: disregarding his furry feet, curly hair and a bit of a broad nose, he bears an astonishing resemblance to the Elves.

He likes his clothes to be forest green or the grey of the old tree trunks but otherwise dressing isn’t one of his priorities - a matter on which neighbors sometimes comment. An old hooded cloak, the grey patched one, rarely hangs idle on the rack for he uses it every time, everywhere.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: He is thoughtful and kind, ready to listen to your troubles and help the best he can. As a leader and judge he’s stern but just. Only five years have passed since the Hobbits fled from the clutches of the Witch King and the memory of their desperate flight still shadows his thoughts from time to time - no one needs to remind him that in tough situations hesitation may cost lives as well as rash orders.

He’s considerate almost without exception when it comes to hobbits, but the prejudices and gruffness of the Bree-folk have made him see red and reveal his weaknesses: sharp tongue, his most feared weapon on occasion, has more than once gotten him into trouble. In verbal battle, 'retreat' doesn’t appear in his vocabulary.

But when peace is on the land he’s a merry fellow who loves to wander in the woods day and night, then to return home for a good meal and drink in front of his hearth. And here we come to his last 'oddity': no one knows exactly why - maybe due to his wandering nature and his obligations as the Hobbit leader? - but he’s still a bachelor. Sometimes a feeling of loneliness creeps into his heart at nightfall but then, snatching his cloak from the rack, he heads to the forest, with the stars as his companions - and the next day he delights in the sight of children playing in the dusty village streets.

HISTORY: Rosco was born in TA 1258 to Bardo and Mimosa Woodfarer in a small hobbit settlement on the banks of river Hoarwell (Mitheithel), some fifty miles north from the Last Bridge. He has a brother, _____ who’s five years younger than he [and twin sisters Britnie and Goldy, eight years younger (?)].

After tradition the Woodfarers had ever been the leaders of the mixed Harfoot and Fallohide clan that formed when the first Fallohides came to Eriador over the Misty Mountains (ca. 1150 TA). So when the times grew dark again and the hobbits had to leave their homes (1300 TA) Rosco’s father Bardo took to guide his folk to safety. And he nearly made it...

Bardo Woodfarer perished in an orc-raid and so it was Rosco’s bitter part to take his father’s position at so an early stage. Through many hardships and losses the hobbits finally came to Bree-land under his lead and found others of their kind. On the perilous journey Rosco had gained renown and was soon recognized as the leader of all Bree hobbits - though at times of peace his duties were few.

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Annunfuiniel's post for Rosco:

Rosco stood on the doorstep of his hobbit hole and breathed deep the fresh morning air. The sun was still low on the eastern sky and the wind had not yet woken. What a fine day to go hunting! the hobbit mused and turned to get his bow from inside when suddenly a rattle of cartwheels reached his ears and made him glance back.

A plump pony trudged slowly up the road from Staddle towards Rosco’s burrow and the small red cart behind the beast swayed gently from side to side with every move. On the driver's seat there sat a grey figure that to a stranger would have seemed to be nodding in sleep. But Rosco recognised the comer and smiled.

“Good morning, dear old ____!” Rosco called out and raised his hand in greeting; “You’re early on the road. Going to town?”

“Good morning to you too, Mr. Woodfarer. The early bird catches the worm, they say – and the early hobbit gets a second breakfast says I. It sure looks like a fine day coming; yesterday’s rain was just what we needed! And yes, I’m on me way to Bree to visit me son and his family – he keeps a little shop now, you know; 'What ye can imagine that lad can carve' I used to tell all and now he’s tryin’ to make a living out of that art. And then I must run some errands: sell this and buy that, you see. Though I must say there’s not much to sell… But here we go again! I just rattle on and almost forget the reason for me call!” The old hobbit rummaged around his bags and baskets; “Where did I put it… Ah, there!” he handed out a small, warm package.

“Me wife told me to give this to you. 'Take this bread to Mr. Woodfarer,' she says; 'for bread doesn’t grow in trees and yet he walks in the woods all days long. We must take care of him!'”

The grey hobbit grinned; “'Take care of him?' I says to her; 'Mr. Woodfarer’s no lad anymore; surely he knows how to look after himself!' But did she take heed of me words? Why of course not!”

Rosco listened to this flood of speech smilingly. But he knew well the value of the gift and thought hard how he could repay the old hobbit couple. Finally he had a chance to speak; “Thank your kind wife for the bread and for her concern.” The delicious smell of the fresh baking flowed to Rosco’s nostrils and he had an idea. “But tell me: would it ease her heart if she did the baking for me from now on? I was thinking maybe three or four times a week? I would pay her what I’ve paid to the bakery before.”

_____ took his hat in his hand and bowed his head; “Thank you, Sir; I’ll ask her. But I’d say she’ll be only pleased to hear this offer.”

Rosco watched as the cart and pony disappeared down the hill and then he stepped inside. Soon he appeared again, wrapped in his grey cloak and carrying his bow, quiver hanging from his belt. He headed towards the sunrise and soon vanished into the green shadows of the wood.

[ September 08, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Annunfuiniel's Character - Mausi Honeysuckle

NAME: Mausi Honeysuckle (her children call her Mima)

AGE: 44

RACE: Hobbit (Stoor)

GENDER: Female

WEAPONS: shears and needles; quick wits

APPEARANCE: Years have treated this hobbit kindly when it comes to looks: her cheeks and lips are as rosy as in her tweens and her brown eyes are bright, usually glinting with a smile. Wavy nut brown hair graces her head. She is of average height for a hobbit of those times, reaching just over four feet. She prefers greens and blues in her dresses; yellow is for parties. Over her dress or apron she girds a pocket where she carries her shears, several hanks of string and some other useful item. A bunch of keys also hangs from her waist, clinking as she walks.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Mausi is a friendly, approachable, and generous person and generally good-natured though at times sharp-worded. She is naturally quite talkative, especially with family and friends. Those in difficult or unfortunate circumstances are always close to her heart. She can be firm, positive, and independent in her own ideas and in reaching her own decisions which is sometimes seen by others as obstinacy - and maybe rightly so. Under conditions of stress she may inadvertently react in temper or stubbornness that she later regrets.

Mausi has to plan things ahead to be able to support her family but secretly she enjoys every break in the routines; unexpected opportunities for meeting people, story telling, singing... Emotion and feeling, the desire to be friendly, happy, and a good mother, are the driving forces in her being rather than material success; she wants to do her work well and as long as her family survives with what she earns she is content.

HISTORY: For everyone who is interested in genealogy: Mausi is Cami Goodchild’s (later Oldbuck) - Yes! our Shire mod’s – great-granddaughter in the seventh generation, a descendent of Holly Oldbuck. (To learn how this is possible check In the Shadow of the Star RPG.) Mausi’s kin married into the Fallohide line and entered Eriador about 1150 TA. They eventually settled on the banks of the river Hoarwell (Mitheithel), near the Last Bridge.

For nearly one hundred and fifty years the hobbits dwelled there in peace. But then the realm of Angmar rose and fear spread over the lands as the servants of the Witch-king carried all before them. Mausi had to flee with her husband Meliodias and their three children. The flight was full of horrors; a chaotic nightmare that separated families and family members. (When the raids began Mausi and her family fled west whereas her parents and siblings strolled south, and they lost contact). But the heaviest blow for her was the loss of her dear husband: Meliodas gave his life to save his family
.
Mausi and her children settled first in Staddle; the young widow’s neighbours helped her in delving a small burrow. Rosco Woodfarer and his brother became very close to Mausi and her children. Soon she could provide for her family with the small but steady income she got from working as a seamstress. But times became worse with the drought and the little family had to move to Bree to survive.

FAMILY: Daughter Hollyella, usually just Ella (10), sons Redmond, or Mondy for short (8) and Kalimac, or Kali for short (6) (see profile below).

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Child's Character - Andreth Woolthistle

NAME: Andreth Woolthistle

AGE: 30

RACE: Man

GENDER: Female

WEAPONS: Growing up in a family with five brothers, Andreth learned how to handle a bow at an early age, much to her parents’ dismay. On a day-to-day basis, however, her more usual “weapon” is a good, hearty broom to chase patrons out of the Prancing Pony when they are not being cooperative.

APPEARANCE: Andreth’s most distinguishing feature is her mop of brownish-red curls and her plethora of freckles. She is a woman who cannot sit down. As the proprietor of the Prancing Pony, she is continually active, running from one end of the Inn to the other with her long hair streaming out behind her. Her bright green eyes clearly reflect whatever emotion she is feeling. She is unusually tall for a woman, and sometimes uses her height to keep visitors to the Pony, male and female, in line.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: By nature, Andreth is kind-hearted and helpful, genuinely concerned about those around her who’ve had a harder time in life than she. Yet she is also a person who will not suffer fools easily, and can easily lose her temper when confronted with irritating behavior or stiff-necked opinions that seem to be little more than a cover for stupidity and ignorance. In her capacity as Innkeeper, she has seen too many instances of this among the numerous guests who frequent the Pony.

Although normally energetic and outgoing, Andreth has discovered that life isn’t as simple or easy as she once thought. Brigands roaming the countryside near Bree were responsible for slaying her husband while he was making a short journey to neighboring communities to buy needed provisions for the Inn. She is trying to pull herself out of her grief and focus on life. Her efforts have been complicated by the fact that she must deflect a host of suitors who’ve appeared on her doorstep, hoping to get a chance to become the new proprietor of the Pony.

HISTORY: Andreth is a daughter of one of the oldest families in Bree. She has family stories that suggest her ancestors were descendents of some of the original men of Dunland who founded Bree in the Second Age.

FAMILY: Andreth has a son Edmund who’s seven years old. (See profile below)

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Child's character - Kali Honeysuckle

NAME: Kalimac (Kali) Honeysuckle

AGE: 6

RACE: Hobbit (Stoor/Fallohide mix)

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: His own two good fists!

APPEARANCE: Unlike his older brother and sister, little Kali seems to hearken back to the Stoor heritage of his mother. He is short and chunky, and has even been known to put on a pair of boots when the weather is muddy. He has curly brown hair and brown eyes.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Nothing makes Kali happier than to run down to the pond to swim and fish. He dreams of someday building a boat and sailing away across the sea, much to the dismay of his mother. For now, however, he must deal with the harsh realities of his immediate life. His father died when he was only one year old, and Kali often wonders what his dad looked like, and why he can’t be here with him.

When the children of the Big Folk tease Kali, it bothers him even more than it does his brother or sister. Yet Kali is less afraid of the Big Folk than they are and has been known to go up to one and start a conversation, an action that sometimes brings problems.

Kali has a special love for tales about Elves and longs to meet one someday. He wants to learn to read and write so that he will be able to record all the tales he has heard.

HISTORY/ FAMILY: See profile for Mausi Honeysuckle

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Joint post for Annunfuiniel's and Child's characters Mausi, Andreth, and Kali

Mausi let down her needlework and rubbed her eyes. Three hours of stitching in a row doesn’t do good for anyone’s sight she mused and tried to rest her blurred gaze by looking into the distance. Bright late-morning sun peeked inside from the southern window. Mausi shrugged her shoulders and eyed her accomplishments with mixed feelings: the job was almost ready but it had been a simple task from the beginning - the small, moss green jacket had only needed some patching and new buttons. The money that I get from this work will be spent quicker than Mondy manages to get into new trouble! Mausi grinned sadly. A heavy sigh escaped her lips. How gladly she would have sewn a totally new jacket! But who could afford to make such an order nowadays?

Mausi was just about to pick up the sewing from her lap for a final touch when she heard the front door fly open and the sound of light, quick-paced footsteps filled the air. Mausi startled but then smiled: “Kali, my dear! Please don’t run while inside. Remember what happened the last t…” Her voice trailed off as she heard another, much heavier step. Who could that possibly be? she wondered and stood up, placing her work on the kitchen table beside her.

“Kali?” she asked, now in an alarmed tone.

“Mima!” the boy exclaimed as he burst into the kitchen and ran straight to his mother’s lap.

“Kali, what’s wrong?” Mausi questioned anxiously as she saw the trails of dried tears striping her son’s dingy face; “Where are the others?” She forgot about the other footsteps until a large figure filled the doorway. Mausi held her child tighter in her arms and spoke, unable to hide her nervousness: “Who is it? What have you done that scared my son like this?”

The shadow hesitated but Kali finally opened his mouth: “Mima, this is my new friend. She has done nothing wrong. Please be kind to her. It was the big boys… They called me names and…and…I want to learn to read, Mima!”

Mausi was perplexed, to say the least: “Read? What has reading got to do with all this?” The shadowy figure moved cautiously inside and Mausi saw a woman, one of the Big Folk. She gasped but then controlled her expression. This isn’t the first time you’ve see one of them, you fool!

Although Mausi’s little cottage had extremely lofty rooms for a Hobbit dwelling, the woman was tall even for one of the big folk. She had to bend and dodge the chandelier that hung high above the Hobbit heads. After a short but awkward silence Mausi found her words again, “I apologize for my heedless words! I am Mausi Honeysuckle, Kali’s mother, as you probably have gathered already. May I now ask for your name?”

Mausi eyed the stranger still somewhat suspicious though her son’s words had been reassuring. The woman’s face seemed familiar to Mausi and suddenly like a stroke of lightning it dawned on her: The innkeeper! That’s who she is!

The taller woman extended her hand in greeting to Mausi. “I’m sorry that I startled you so. But your son insisted I come in to meet you. My name is Andreth Thistlewool. I’m the proprietor of the Prancing Pony.”

Andreth turned around to face Mausi, “I found Kali hurt and crying on the back steps of the Inn. Some of the big lads were teasing him. I’m sorry for that.”

“And what did they say to him?” Mausi bristled. She turned her eyes from the innkeeper to her son, but the little boy clammed up and refused to talk.

The larger woman’s face went beet red as she turned to face Mausi. “I’m afraid some of these lads need discipline. They were calling him names, and said he was stupid…” What Andreth did not say was that, much to her embarrassment, her own son Edmund had gone along with the group who’d been tormenting the boy.

At this point the younger lad piped up, blinking back his tears, “Bill, the big one, called me a ‘rabbit’. He said I was too dumb to learn my letters and numbers.” The boy shifted his gaze downward.

Andreth flinched uncomfortably, “I’m so sorry, Mistress Honeysuckle. Some children can be incredibly rude. But I’m afraid there’s even worse than that. Two of the lads stole your son’s hat and flung it about the courtyard, forcing him to go chasing after them.”

As the full explanation came out Mausi’s cheeks flushed with anger though she tried to hold herself back. This won’t do anymore! she mused and then spoke aloud, “Kali, could you go and get Ella and Mondy here.”

Then she realized what was wrong with the whole picture, “Where are they anyway? They were supposed to look after you.” Kali sensed his siblings were in big trouble and kept silent, staring down at his dusty toes.

The innkeeper glanced at him but then turned around to address Mausi, “There were two young Hobbits coming from the Gate as we entered, a boy and a girl. Maybe these were the ones you’re looking for?”

“Most likely so.” Mausi sighed, “They have probably seen something “interesting” again and gone to take a closer look at whatever it is without further thought. Kali, run now and call for them - they can’t be far - I need Mondy to do something for me.”

The young lad still hesitated. “No, they are not in trouble if they come right away.” Mausi assured him, smiling at her younger son’s concern.

Kali ran off, returning soon with his siblings. Mondy and Ella's enthusiastic babbling could be heard as soon as the front door opened. But with them came a third hobbit; a tall and slender man in a patched grey cloak.

"Ro-... Mr. Woodfarer! Just the hobbit I hoped to see!" Mausi exclaimed and hurried the few paces to the door to greet the newcomer.

Rosco Woodfarer took the hand that was extended to him in greeting and shook it lightly, feeling Mausi's strong grip. Still rocking on his heels on the doorstep Rosco scanned the room in front of him. Mister? he frowned. The hobbits had called themselves by first names for years now, except among total strangers. 'What...?' the question didn't have time to form in his mind before his eyes fixed on the red-haired woman.

An awkward silence fell to the room as even Ella and Mondy hushed to stare at the 'biggie' (as they named all of the Big Folk), swaying between fear and curiosity. But Rosco's blue eyes flew from one woman to the other and seeing Mausi's strained face he jumped into conclusions.

"What is this?" he addressed his words to Mausi. "Is there a problem?" His gaze shifted to the innkeeper.

Andreth moved uneasily but Mausi's face reddened at her friend's impoliteness. Then she raised her hands to her hips. "There are some problems indeed..." Mausi began, "-but not with her!" She hissed from between her teeth and beckoned Rosco to come further inside. "...and Miss Woolthistle here was so kind as to bring them to my knowledge. We-"

The front door opened and a gust of wind swept through the rooms, once again carrying the sound of footsteps. What a market! Mausi sighed and spun round, nailing her gaze to the doorway.....

____________________________________________

Additional post for Child's character Andreth Thistlewool

Grimly reflecting on the specific punishment she would dole out to Edmund for his part in this ill-mannered escapade, Andreth clambered into the pony cart and flicked the reins over Bettercup's back. Thank goodness Kali hadn’t guessed Edmund was her son, or mentioned his part in this affair to Mausi. The woman might never have spoken with her. Edmund was only seven years old, yet already he’d picked up the rude language and behavior of the older boys when it came to dealing with hobbit children.

She remembered the group of bullying lads and sighed. There were enough real problems in life to keep everyone busy in these hard times. No need to go out and create others that were totally unnecessary.

Andreth navigated her cart down the main street of Bree, carefully skirting the large potholes, and pulled up in front of the Inn. But before she could run inside to speak with Edmund or ask the stable lad to unhitch Buttercup, she could see another problem already brewing on the front steps. A noisy throng of guests had gathered near the entrance to the Pony; she could hear their voices rising and falling as they pressed foward with insistent questions, bantering back and forth with a tall gentleman dressed in Ranger’s gear. Andreth placed her hands on her hips and inwardly groaned as she took in this scene of mounting confusion. Then she curtly reminded herself to keep her tongue in check.

Several of the guests stood over to one side reading a placard that had been nailed up near the entrance to the Inn. As this group noticed Andreth approaching, one of the men whirled around and spat out his indignation, “Are you going to let this stranger post notices without permission? Humpf! How do we know it’s true? I haven’t seen any bandits lurking on my doorstep. And to suggest we cooperate with those sniveling hobbits! It’s preposterous. If your husband was alive, Andreth Thistlewool, he’d put a quick end to this. This is what comes of letting unattached women run an Inn!"

"And, as for you….” The gentleman stepped forward with his fist raised against the Ranger.

Just as Ned the Miller was about to leap out and intervene, Andreth bounded from the cart and elbowed her way through the crowd, pushing several guests aside until she stood face-to-face with the Ranger who presided over the mob. Her eyes flashed with indignation.

“What’s all this? Who gave you permission to post that notice on the Inn and incite my guests? I’m Andreth, the proprietor here, and I demand to know what’s going on!” She stepped back and stared at the tall figure of the Ranger. He looked at her with a hint of a grin on his face, an expression that registered halfway between amusement and resignation. Then, he gestured towards the placard that was posted near the front door. There, at the bottom of the board, in a conspicuous spot, was the signature and raised seal of the Mayor.

Andreth looked embarassed and bit her tongue. Whatever this was, it was no mere jest. She reached out a welcoming hand to the Ranger and added regretfully, “I’m sorry. It’s not been a good day. I should have looked before I spoke. Please, if you have a moment, step inside and explain what’s happening. Some of my patrons are upset, and I may have to explain things to them.”

With that the tall, willowy figure of the proprietor and the rugged one of the Ranger disappeared down a side corridor of the Inn, heading towards a room that Andreth used as her private office. In the distance she could hear the stubborn protests of her young son Edmund who was already leading Cook on a merry chase through the kitchen and the pantries.

[ September 15, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Annunfuiniel]

Beren87's Character - Minastan Helmman


NAME: Minastan Helmman

AGE: 37

RACE: Man

GENDER: male

WEAPONS: One long sword, named Calalim (Q: light-giver..or close to it), which has gotten little use in it’s time at his side. His skills with a bow are lacking, at best, as his use of stealth allows him to get close enough to never need to use the long-distance weapon.

APPEARANCE: Sandy brownish hair contrasts well with his tanned skin, highlighting his brown eyes. His clothes tend to be meticulously clean, despite his time in the forest, though on close inspection one can see they’re worn from washing and the general wear and tear of a traveler. His face is generally covered by a smirk directed towards those around him, which gives him the appearance of being cocky.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Minastan is, because of his time alone with himself away from town, a smart-aleck when it comes to social interaction. He’s puts up with people well, often explaining things multiple times without ever getting angry, but when he can see the chance to make a wise-crack, he generally seizes upon the moment. This is a put off to some, but he lets it go. He is slow to anger, having attuned his emotions to a point where he’s nearly always in control. Having grown in a village without Hobbits, he was at first oddened by the little folk, but soon learned to live amongst them. Yet, he isn't respectful of his fellow Hobbit Rangers, finding them too meek to do their duties appropriately. He works with them, but doesn't generally rely on them.


HISTORY: Minastan was raised west of Rohan, in the open plains of that rolling country. He led a happy life within a small village, learning the various skills he would need as an adult in the community, to defend against marauders and wild beasts. But at the age of 19, the longing for adventure in his soul took control, and with hardly a warning he embarked out across the wilderness until he was nearly killed by a pack of wolves near the forests of Mirkwood. Yet he was saved by a wandering group calling themselves “Rangers.” He soon joined up with the men, learning their talents of scouting and the ways of the wilderness.

Now at 37 he is a wanderer who lives life as he sees fit, with no ties to anyone around him. His journeys have now brought him, along with a few other rangers, to the village of Bree, after the discovery of marauders on the road.

____________________________________________


Beren87's post for Minastan

Minastan walked along the main road in Bree, the Prancing Pony ahead of him in the distance. The notice he carried in his hand, the ink still slightly wet from the Mayor's assitant, waved in his wake. He continued moving on, ignoring the idle stares of the people of the city. A ranger will always draw stares, he said to himself, lofting his position in his mind higher than the people of the city ever cared to do.

Some began to follow him, interested in the paper fluttering in his hand. They gathered around the steps as he climbed them, growing larger as time progressed. He took out a tac, and placed it on the top and bottom of the notice, then proceeded to step to the side, so that the gathered mass would have time enough to read.

He blinked at the crowd around him, the subtle grin on his face mearly covering the amusement he felt inside for their sudden voluminous chaos. His hand rested lightly on the sign he had just posted. The people weren't generally trusting of Rangers as it was, and he knew that, but surely they would take the words of the Mayor?

"What on Earth does this mean?" shouted one man from the crowd, his voice rising above the rest. "Cooperate with Hobbits? What on earth for?"

A tall man in the front of the crowd proceeded to state "You rangers had best be watching where you're posting these things, I'm sure the Innkeeper won't abide by you simply nailing things to the Pony."

Suddenly, a woman came elbowing through the crowd, her recently unoccupied cart easily seen in the road. He smiled down at her from the step, her grim face revealing her grim attitude towards the commotion his notice was posting. She proceeded to proclaim herself the owner of the Inn, bellowing about posting notices without warning. He merely continued pointing at the sign, waiting for her to see the raised seal on the bottom. Suddenly she flushed, noticing the sign of the Mayor, and then apologized for her initial anger.

Her hand shot out to the door, opening it and then inviting him in, leaving the crowd to ponder as they liked. She led him down a small, side corridor, her pace quickening with the assurance of a widower. A door arose out of the end of the hall, their obvious destination. She opened it without a glance, and invited him in. There were a few ruffles of paper upon the desk, which she hurriedly tidied.

"Now then, what's the meaning of all this?

[ September 09, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Nurumaiel's character - Edmund

NAME : Edmund Woolthistle

AGE : 7

RACE : Man

GENDER : Male

WEAPONS : His mouth is his greatest weapon. He's excellent at tormenting and teasing, name-calling, and other such things that would hurt a fellow boy's feelings, and the use of the older boys he has as friends. Sticks are also quite handy when playing pretend swords with his friends, though he would never be seen using it for real on a living thing.

APPEARANCE : Edmund looks much like his mother Andreth Woolthistle. He has brown curls, and a few freckles on either cheek and speckling his nose. Most people remember him for his lively, sparkling blue eyes that are constantly filled with wild adventure and excitement. It is most likely his eye color came from farther back than his parents. He's fairly slender, though he still has a little bit of his baby chubbiness left, mainly in his cheeks, though a little in his belly. Though he's an average height at the present time, when he's older he will most likely be tall like his mother and father.

PERSONALITY : Edmund is an active little boy who, like most boys, likes to have a good time. Unfortunately, through taking up with the wrong friends, having a good time mostly meant bullying other children. He also has a passion for tormenting the Cook at the inn, mainly hiding various tools from her and stealing food when she's not looking. Edmund is the ideal little terror, even to his friends at times. If things don't go his way, he'll lose his temper and give them a nasty time. Though he was not like this before, it is suspected by most that the death of his father a year previous seriously affected him.

However, he does have his good traits. Like his mother, he has a kind heart, and he only needs to get past the hard crust that's surrounding it, caused by the bad company he keeps. His kindness is mainly exercised in animals, and he's forever finding wounded creatures that he insists need his care. This bothers some people to no ends, but afterwards they see how much it's worth it when they see the gentleness and love he shows as he treats his patients.

Though he's a bother to her, he loves his mother very much, and does everything he can to help her. He can be difficult sometimes, and often throws temper tantrums, but such tears that come from his blue eyes as he runs to apologize to her! He would do just about anything for her.

HISTORY : Edmund lived in Bree all his life, with his father and mother at the Prancing Pony. When he was only six years old his father was killed, and, being very fond of his father, Edmund was very sorrowful. For a long time he was depressed and bored, then he found a way to pass the time by causing trouble with some of the other boys.

____________________________________________

Nurumaiel's post for Edmund

Edmund Woolthistle, a young lad of seven years, sat on a little stool in the kitchen of the Prancing Pony, a basket of potatoes at his feet. His freckled face was bright read, partly with anger and partly because of his efforts. He had already peeled the awesome amount of five whole potatoes for Cook to mash later, and he was feeling pretty exhausted. Cook was, obviously, cooking, but at the same time she was watching Edmund with a stern eye.

He had to endure this suffering all because of that silly hobbit boy! What a crybaby he had been. All they (meaning Edmund and his ne'er-do-well friends) had done was try to have a bit of fun with him (which, you must take note, means teasing) and he had burst into tears. So when they had tried to play a game with him (stealing his hat and tossing it to one another, causing the poor hobbit boy more distress), they had expected him to cheer up, but did he? Of course not! He was a hobbit, so he wouldn't.

I am being punished because some stupid hobbit is a crybaby, Edmund thought ferociously, picking up another potato. I'll be stuck in this stupid kitchen all day because of that stupid crybaby. Reflecting on this grim thought, Edmund felt anger building up at rapid paces inside of him. Forgetting that Cook was watching him, even forgetting that he was sitting in the prison of the kitchen, he took up the potato he had just finished and hurtled it across the room. It narrowly missed Cook's head and with an indescribable noise hit the kitchen wall. Cook immediately turned flashing eyes towards Edmund, but the boy's own blue eyes showed no signs of remorse for what he had just done.

"...and if Edmund should cause any further trouble while in the kitchen, you may think of a suitable punishment for him." Those had been Andreth's words. Cook didn't hesitate to carry them out. "Edmund Woolthistle, you will clean up that mess immediately, and then you will finish those potatoes. Instead of letting you off after dinner like I had originally intended, you will stay and help me clean up. You can expect to be doing many dishes and scrubbing many tables, young man."

Edmund gave her a sour look as he crossed the kitchen to take care of the crushed potato. His slightly chubby face turned an even deeper shade of red, if that were possible. He had planned to take care of his wounded squirrel after dinner, but now Cook had to spoil it all. She would feel sorry when the squirrel died, that she would. But the poor squirrel, that had to suffer so that horrible Cook could satisfy her need for punishing innocent little boys! Edmund thought all these things with the anger increasing in him. The injustice of the world was too great.

[ September 09, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Piosenniel's Character - Berilac Woodfarer


Name: Berilac Woodfarer (Beril the Bowman)

Age: 42

Race: Hobbit, Fallohide

Gender: Male

Weapons:

An expert bowman, he bears a Yew longbow, 57” (1.4 M) made to size for him; deer leather belt quiver with knife sheath; cedar shaft arrows with iron tips; a short sword, twin to his brother’s. Small leather tube bearing a great number of his maps. Rides a small, grey colored horse named Slate.

Appearance:

4’ 6” (54”; 1.37 M); 100 lbs (45 kg); hazel eyes; thick, wavy, dark blond hair, shoulder length, worn pulled back and bound at the nape of his neck with a leather thong. Fair skinned beneath his tanned features; his face bears a rugged, weathered look. Lean, sinewy, muscular build. Normal attire is black mid-calf breeches secured with a dark leather belt bearing a brass buckle; dark grey, long sleeved tunic; a long, hooded, grey green cloak. On the index finger of his right hand he wears a slim, gold band.

Personality/Strengths/Weaknesses:

A reserved man in the company of strangers; allows others to take the lead in conversation or social interaction in such company as it provides him the opportunity to observe them closely. Has a keen mind and sharp senses. Good judge of character; loyal to his friends and family, around whom he shows quite a different side to his character – wicked sense of humor, outrageous flirt when it comes to charming the ladies (learned at an early age how profitable this could be in managing his younger sisters), fond of reciting poetry (especially his own doggerel), is adept at ferreting out juicy pieces of gossip.

Above all, he is a very devoted husband and father. His family is his source of strength and also his greatest weakness. Given a situation in which he must choose between the needs of his family and his own needs he would choose their well-being over his own.

He is less inclined to be harsh about the animosity between the Big Folk and the Little People as are other Hobbits. As a Ranger, he works closely with Men, and finds them to have an equal measure of good and bad traits as do his fellow Hobbits.

History:

Born in TA 1263, the second child and second son of Bardo and Mimosa Woodfarer in a small settlement on the banks of the Hoarwell. His younger twin sisters were three years younger than he, and he doted on them, fancying himself to be their protector. They in turn adored their older brother and would do anything for him – an unfortunate choice for them at times, especially when his ideas of what might be fun conflicted with his mother’s ideas of what was right. His brother, Rosco, was much older than this trio and though his interests were often more mature, at least in his eyes, than the childish antics of his brother and sisters, he often would step in to negotiate between his parents and the Triple Terror as they were known in the family.

He was a young man still, just turned thirty-seven, when the encroaching shadowed times forced his family and the others of their settlement to leave their homes and seek the safety of the larger Mannish community of Bree-land. The death of his father at the hands of the Orcs kindled a desire in him to see that the darkness would not prevail and that his people and all those who dwelt in the lands between the Misty Mountains and the Blue could do so in peace.

Once his mother and siblings were seen safely to Bree-land, Berilac turned eastward on his small horse, Slate, seeking the holding of the Rangers who had traveled often through the area where his family had lived. Rangers who often stopped to confer with his father, bringing news of the areas outside the Hobbit settlement, and in the last years grimmer news of the nearing darkness. He had been taken in by them, several of the Hobbit Rangers giving witness to his character and his woodsman’s skills. The fact that he was considered an accomplished archer with his short Hobbit bow was also a mark in his favor.

Now, he lived in their hidden fastness in The Angle – Rangers, both Men and Hobbits, and their families, in a small settlement in the area between the Hoarwell and the Loudwater, where it joined the Hoarwell’s courses. Under the tutelage of Merimas Thistle he honed his Ranger skills, and was given the gift of a longbow made especially for him by the Rangers' Master Bowman.

And under the motherly eye of Merimas’ wife, Larkspur, he was taken into the family. This bond was made permanent when, at age 39, he married the oldest daughter of the family, Fairlight, two years younger than he. The following year saw the birth of their daughter, Alyssum. And now at age 42, another child is on the way, and soon to be born.

Though he looks forward to seeing his family in Bree-land ance again, it is with great reluctance that he leaves his wife and undertakes the task of journeying to Bree-land to speak with the folk there concerning the troubles coming their way.

_____________________________________________

Piosenniel's post for Berilac

It was a pleasant enough day for tramping down the road, he thought to himself. The mid-day sun was warm against the promised chill of early autumn, and a few late flowers poked their fading heads through the dried grasses along the roadway. It had been nearly a year since last he’d seen his brother and sisters. His mouth curved up in a soft smile at the thought of Britnie and Goldy, both married now with little ones of their own. They lived very near one another (as children they had been inseparable), and every so often he would receive a joint letter from both of them letting him know the little details of their lives and of course always hinting that perhaps, if he could see fit to be decent about it, he would bring his wife and daughter to visit the better half of the family. He could see them now, Britnie with her hands on her hips and Goldie wagging her finger at him, when he told them the latest news – they were about to become aunts once more.

He paused, just before he reached the Southgate and brushed the road dust from his breeches and shirt. He pulled back his hair, undone a little in the breeze, and smoothed it into the confines of the leather cord he used to bind it once more. His hands and face he had already washed in a nearby pool – filled to brimming now with water after the recent shower. He had smiled at his reflection in the still water before cupping it in his hands – how lucky to not be bothered with facial hair like his Mannish counterparts. Days of tramping and living rough would have brought them to Bree looking more scurvy than the ruffians they came to warn about.

As it was, the Gatekeeper admitted him but barely, muttering something about odd looking Hobbits. He cast a suspicious eye on his long bow and knife and debated for a moment whether he needed to alert the Bree watch about this overly armed hole dweller. In the end he decided it was too much trouble and waved him in, returning to his perusal of the bottom of the pint one of his friends had so kindly brought him from the Inn.

Berilac walked slowly across the causeway over the dike and through the gate taking in the details of the town’s defenses. He paused once he was well past the hedge and looked back. His eyes narrowed at what he saw, and he ticked off mentally those things that needed to be fixed or strengthened. The earthen-work dike had caved in and filled up in places; the hedge had not been well taken care of and stood thin at various points he could see from where he stood. The gate itself looked as if it had no cross bar to keep out would be intruders. And the flimsy latch on it would not hold back the efforts of a small child he thought to himself. He sighed, taking in the last problem, but not the least – the Gatekeeper . . . drinking on duty.

He turned away from the gate, and trudged up one of the main paths, stopping to ask several Hobbits along the way for directions to Mausi’s house. With any luck he could bunk down at her place, then visit his brother on the morrow. He laughed to himself thinking of Ella and Mondy and little Kali. Perhaps they could be persuaded to walk about the perimeter of the town with him. If anyone knew where the places for easy ins and outs were along the hedge and dike it would be the children.

Reaching his friend’s doorway he noted a largish cart parked just outside, and wondered if one of the Big Folk had brought some business for Mausi and her nimble fingers. No one answered at his light knock, and he turned the handle of the door to let himself in, as she had so often told him to do in the past. He heard voices and paused not wanting to intrude. From his vantage point he saw a tall woman smile at Mausi and extend her hand in farewell. Her words came clearly to him.

‘Your children are safe, and I see that you have a visitor,’ the woman said in parting. ‘I’m afraid I truly must be going. My own son is at the Inn with Cook looking out after him. He’s quite a handful for her, and I need to get home.’ The woman hurried out of the room and down the hall to the door, nodding at Berilac as she passed.

Berilac’s grin widened as he entered the room where Mausi stood, and he gave an astonished gasp when he saw his brother standing off to the side. They embraced, clapping each other heartily on the back. Mausi standing to one side looked on, delighted to see Berilac and to see his brother enjoying the surprise. Berilac broke from his brother’s embrace and swept Mausi into a bear hug, causing her to squeal as he lifted her from the floor, then deposited her into his brother’s astonished arms.

_____________________________________________


She invited them to stay for supper and sent them down to her small side cellar to pick out vegetables for a thick soup. They were drafted into helping her prepare it while she made a pan of biscuits to go with it. It was during the chopping of the carrots and taters that Mausi inquired, in a soft voice, hoping against hope, about her parents and siblings. Had Berilac had a chance to see if there were any news on their whereabouts, she wondered. Rosco, too, looked up expectantly.

‘Aye, I do have news, and better than I ever thought to find.’ He could hear her short intake of breath at this auspicious beginning. ‘Your family is well and they all send their regards to you and the children. They dwell now in the Angle, as the country that lies between Hoarwell and Loudwater is called. There’s a great hobbit settlement there, with many Stoors, established by our southern cousins that have long been separated from us.’

‘The Angle?’ asked Rosco, his brows rising. ‘Yes,’ replied Berilac, ‘not far in distance from where I live, though our way is hidden to them.’

The soup was bubbling merrily and the smell of the browning biscuits made Berilac’s mouth water after days of cold meals eaten quickly on the along the trail. Mausi was busy getting the children ready for dinner – hands and faces washed. And giving them little tasks to set the table for the meal. Rosco, sitting in a chair in the front room, Berilac near him, took the opportunity of this busy diversion to ask his brother the real reason for this visit. Berilac filled him in on the news about the bandits saying that he and one of the Big Folk Rangers would be calling a meeting for all the folk in Bree-land about meeting this threat.

Rosco listened closely and shook his head at what his brother had said and what he expected. ‘I know,’ said Berilac, reading the expression on his brother’s face. ‘It’s going to take some doing . . . and unfortunately not just in fixing the dike and hedge . . .’

[ September 12, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Piosenniel's character - Will

NAME: Willem ‘Will’ Farroweed

AGE: 14

RACE: Man

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: Carries a one bladed pocket knife; sling shot; pea shooter

APPEARANCE:

5’2” (1.6 M); 107 lbs ( 48 kg), lean, gangly, all elbows and knees, light brown thatch of thick, straight hair cut unevenly about his head; brown eyes; spotty complexion; brown breeches cinched up with a belt, his bony ankles hanging out; sloppy big tunic, patched at the elbows, a hand me down from his 18 y/o older brother; usually barefoot – in colder weather has a pair of brown, calf high, run down leather boots.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES:

A bully with a sharp wit that impresses his little gang of friends. They look up to him as a leader, and delight in the little schemes he cooks up to harass the Hobbit children. He is quick to take offense, but stores his ‘injuries/woundings’ away, letting them fester and ripen into thoroughly nasty retaliations.

HISTORY:

Father: Tomsin (Big Tom) Farroweed
Mother: Letitia (Letty) Rushlight Farroweed

His family has a long history of being pig farmers. And have lived for many generations on a small holding between Staddle and Bree. As in all farming ventures – some years are good and some less prosperous. Of late, fortune has not smiled kindly on the Farroweed family – the market for pork is down, crops are off, and feed more expensive. Of late, there have been a number of pigs gone missing here and there. At first the possibility of wolves or wild dogs was entertained by the family, but now Big Tom is sure it’s the Hobbits that have something to do with his missing swine.

Willem is the youngest of seven children – four other boys and two girls. There being so many other hands to help out with the needs of raising pigs, his mother has had plenty of time to baby him. He is still her 'precious little baby boy’ and can do no wrong in her estimation. His brothers and sisters champion their baby brother against all outsiders.

Willem’s father is a pessimistic man, and of the opinion that the influx of Hobbits will prove the undoing of any hope for continued prosperity by the Men of Bree. His family accedes to his often voiced opinions, and Willem has absorbed this negativity toward the Hobbits as being ‘right’ - it fuels his activities as a bully and tormenter of the inferior and interfering hole-dwellers.

[ September 12, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Tara's Character - Lotar

NAME: Lotar

AGE: 49

RACE: Man

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: rusted longsword, and a small dagger in his boot

APPEARANCE: Tall and thin frame, with dark hair and equally dark eyes, with a streak of grey through his beard being a distinguishing feature. Dressed in heavy worn riding gear, and little or no armour. He looks every bit the sinister character, and when his temper flares, its certainly proven.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Lotar is not the most patient of men when it comes to his peers. He is calculating and quite intelligent when it comes to matters of survival and some war strategies. He has his times of dark mood, where he will seal himself off from everyone and stew over seemingly trifle matters, but most of the time his frustrations is clearly vented. Apart form this, no one has accused him of being a poor leader, and he is known as the most efficient of all of the bandits.

HISTORY: Lotar was one of the men who lost the most in the scouring of his Village by the Dark forces, but he speaks of it little. His only family left is his son Kandel, who is never far away from him This is often found humorous by the other men, as they are at loggerheads over almost every issue of strategy, and are very different in personality.

___________________________________________

Tara's post for Lotar

‘My beard will get whiter waiting for that blasted scout!’ Lotar roared. Pacing to and fro, he kicked the dirt and continued fuming ‘How am I supposed to plan anything if that dolt takes his pleasant time coming back with the mapping!’

‘Its always possible that the man was attacked’ said Kandel coolly, as he leant against a tree stump. Looking up through his long hair, his tone further irked his father. ‘Is your head fullo’ rocks? Who would attack him? One of those Little Men with a pitchfork? Save me!’ Lotar stopped as a young man heaved into the clearing. ‘Lotar sir’ he heaved ‘There be little defense on the way. None actually. They’ve done practically nothing!’

‘Well, at least you tell me what I wish! Now, tell me what the scene looks like! I want every hill and knoll if this is to work! The sooner we get this, the sooner we have our own houses and fires to warm our feet by! This town will make us a pretty amount!' he said with a pleased grin. Kandel watched him and shook his head with a small laugh.

____________________________________________

Tara's Character - Kandel

NAME: Kandel

AGE: 27

RACE: Men

GENDER: Male

WEAPONS: Longsword and daggers

APPEARANCE: Tall and strong like his father, but paler with lighter hair. Handsome features and a mocking smile forever on his face. Wears similar gear to all the outlaws, with a hood he generally hides under.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Kandel has inherited more of his personality from his mothers side. He is cooler and more collected than his father is. Though he shares the same eye to detail as his father. He is quick on his feet and even quicker in tongue. One of his greatest joys is winding his father up with smart remarks, though his devotion to him is clearly seen. He is rarely found very far away from him, especially in moments of action. Many see him as taking life as fun and games.

HISTORY: Orcs killed His mother and sister when his village was raided. He has wandered with his father since. Because of this he has developed a reasonable skill with the blade out of necessity, and boasts that he rivals his father.

[ September 12, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

It is a requirement that all potential game players will either have posted in one of the RPG Inns (preferably in The Green Dragon) or have played in an RPG on the Barrow Downs.

Please use this form for creating your character to post on the discussion thread.

Those who have not played before in a Barrow Downs' RPG will be given preference. Final preference, though, will be at the discretion of the Game Owner.
___________________________________________

Character Description Form:

1.) Have you ever played in an RPG at the Barrow Downs? – YES/NO - Which one?

2.) How many RPG’s on the Barrow Downs are you currently involved in? Please note you may play in only 3 games at one time.

3.) Have you posted in The Green Dragon Inn or in The White Horse in Rohan? – YES/NO – Which one?

_____________________________________________


For your character please include:

NAME:

AGE:

RACE:

GENDER:

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

APPEARANCE:

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

HISTORY:

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

A FIRST POST FOR YOUR CHARACTER MUST ACCOMPANY THIS FORM.

It is a requirement for this game. Character Descriptions without a First Post attached will be sent back to the writer. They may be submitted again, once there is a First Post to go with them.

[ September 15, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Annunfuiniel,

I managed to get those two notes out before I left.

See you soon.

Cami

[Nurumaiel]

Hello, everyone! I'm extremely excited about this game and can't wait to begin playing with you all.

I'll get to work on my bio for Edmund soon (I have to fill in a save at C&C, and I consider that my first duty). Should I include a first post with the bio?

[Beren87]

Oh, this is good.

Thank you for the invitation, all. The role of the human ranger sounds exquisite, a character I'll have fun playing.

This is..more or less my first RPG, since Reclaiming the City was..err..a mess. I'll have my character's bio and first post, interacting with Child's Andreth obviously, up tonight. (bearing any natural disaster).

Thank you again for the warm invitation. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Beren 87.

Glad to hear it. Take the time you need for the profile and post. This is just the planning thread so there's no rush.

I'm visiting friends in Austin, Texas and will be back home on Tuesday.

See you then,

Nuru,

Do whichever you prefer. We have plenty of time if you want to wait till I get back and some of the other dedicated characters sign up.

The first place to start would be the profile.

But if you get adventurous , go ahead with both. What kind of punishment would Andreth give her child? Any ideas?

Cami/Child

[ August 17, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Annunfuiniel]

Beren - a hearty welcome!

Nurumaiel - 'excited' is the word of the day! [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img]

Sharon - some minor edits (maybe) coming for Rosco's history. And 'slicing' the schedule into three-week periods sounds like a good plan - and I do have a couple of ideas for some action... But at the moment I must get something done with Swan Wood so I'll get back to you when you've returned. Have fun!

~Annun

[Beren87]

NAME: Minastan Helmman
AGE: 37
RACE: Man

GENDER: male

WEAPONS: One long sword, named Calalim (Q: light-giver..or close to it), which has gotten little use in it’s time at his side. His skills with a bow are lacking, at best, as his use of stealth allows him to get close enough to never need to use the long-distance weapon.

APPEARANCE: Sandy brownish hair contrasts well with his tanned skin, highlighting his brown eyes. His clothes tend to be meticulously clean, despite his time in the forest, though on close inspection one can see they’re worn from washing and the general wear and tear of a traveler. His face is generally covered by a smirk directed towards those around him, which gives him the appearance of being cocky.

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Minastan is, because of his time’s alone with himself away from town, a smart-aleck when it comes to social interaction. He’s puts up with people well, often explaining things multiple times without ever getting angry, but when he can see the chance to make a wise-crack, he generally seizes upon the moment. This is a put off to some, but he lets it go. He is slow to anger, having attuned his emotions to a point where he’s nearly always in control.

HISTORY: Minastan was raised west of Rohan, in the open plains of that rolling country. He led a happy life among a small village, learning the various skills he would need as an adult in the community, to defend against marauders and wild beasts. But at the age of 19, the longing for adventure in his soul took control, and with hardly a warning he embarked out across the wilderness until he was nearly killed by a pack of wolves near the forests of Mirkwood. Yet he was saved by a wandering group calling themselves “Rangers.” He soon joined up with the men, learning their talents of scouting and the wilderness. Now at 37 he is a wander who lives life as he sees fit, with no ties to anyone around him. His journeys have now brought him, along with a few other rangers, to the village of Bree, after the discovery of marauders on the road.

Well, there's my character's Bio. The first post has taken a bit longer than I had expected, so I'm not happy with it yet. I'll have that up soon.

If there are any suggestions as to changes for my character, please, well, suggest them.

[ August 18, 2003: Message edited by: Beren87 ]

[piosenniel]

Rosco - meet your brother, Berilac.

Character Description

Name: Berilac Woodfarer (Beril the Bowman)

Age: 42

Race: Hobbit, Fallohide

Gender: Male

Weapons:

An expert bowman, he bears a Yew longbow, 57” (1.4 M) made to size for him; deer leather belt quiver with knife sheath; cedar shaft arrows with iron tips; a short sword, twin to his brother’s. Small leather tube bearing a great number of his maps. Rides a small, grey colored horse named Slate.

Appearance:

4’ 6” (54”; 1.37 M); 100 lbs (45 kg); hazel eyes; thick, wavy, dark blond hair, shoulder length, worn pulled back and bound at the nape of his neck with a leather thong. Fair skinned beneath his tanned features; his face bears a rugged, weathered look. Lean, sinewy, muscular build. Normal attire is black mid-calf breeches secured with a dark leather belt bearing a brass buckle; dark grey, long sleeved tunic; a long, hooded, grey green cloak. On the index finger of his right hand he wears a slim, gold band.

Personality/Strengths/Weaknesses:

A reserved man in the company of strangers; allows others to take the lead in conversation or social interaction in such company as it provides him the opportunity to observe them closely. Has a keen mind and sharp senses. Good judge of character; loyal to his friends and family, around whom he shows quite a different side to his character – wicked sense of humor, outrageous flirt when it comes to charming the ladies (learned at an early age how profitable this could be in managing his younger sisters), fond of reciting poetry (especially his own doggerel), is adept at ferreting out juicy pieces of gossip.

Above all, he is a very devoted husband and father. His family is his source of strength and also his greatest weakness. Given a situation in which he must choose between the needs of his family and his own needs he would choose their well-being over his own.

He is less inclined to be harsh about the animosity between the Big Folk and the Little People as are other Hobbits. As a Ranger, he works closely with Men, and finds them to have an equal measure of good and bad traits as do his fellow Hobbits.

History:

Born in TA 1263, the second child and second son of Bardo and Mimosa Woodfarer in a small settlement on the banks of the Hoarwell. His younger twin sisters were three years younger than he, and he doted on them, fancying himself to be their protector. They in turn adored their older brother and would do anything for him – an unfortunate choice for them at times, especially when his ideas of what might be fun conflicted with his mother’s ideas of what was right. His brother, Rosco, was much older than this trio and though his interests were often more mature, at least in his eyes, than the childish antics of his brother and sisters, he often would step in to negotiate between his parents and the Triple Terror as they were known in the family.

He was a young man still, just turned thirty-seven, when the encroaching shadowed times forced his family and the others of their settlement to leave their homes and seek the safety of the larger Mannish community of Bree-land. The death of his father at the hands of the Orcs kindled a desire in him to see that the darkness would not prevail and that his people and all those who dwelt in the lands between the Misty Mountains and the Blue could do so in peace.

Once his mother and siblings were seen safely to Bree-land, Berilac turned eastward on his small horse, Slate, seeking the holding of the Rangers who had traveled often through the area where his family had lived. Rangers who often stopped to confer with his father, bringing news of the areas outside the Hobbit settlement, and in the last years grimmer news of the nearing darkness. He had been taken in by them, several of the Hobbit Rangers giving witness to his character and his woodsman’s skills. The fact that he was considered an accomplished archer with his short Hobbit bow was also a mark in his favor.

Now, he lived in their hidden fastness in The Angle – Rangers, both Men and Hobbits, and their families, in a small settlement in the area between the Hoarwell and the Loudwater, where it joined the Hoarwell’s courses. Under the tutelage of Merimas Thistle he honed his Ranger skills, and was given the gift of a longbow made especially for him by the Rangers' Master Bowman.

And under the motherly eye of Merimas’ wife, Larkspur, he was taken into the family. This bond was made permanent when, at age 39, he married the oldest daughter of the family, Fairlight, two years younger than he. The following year saw the birth of their daughter, Alyssum. And now at age 42, another child is on the way, and soon to be born.

Though he looks forward to seeing his family in Bree-land ance again, it is with great reluctance that he leaves his wife and undertakes the task of journeying to Bree-land to speak with the folk there concerning the troubles coming their way.

_____________________________________________

Pio's post

It was a pleasant enough day for tramping down the road, he thought to himself. The mid-day sun was warm against the promised chill of early autumn, and a few late flowers poked their fading heads through the dried grasses along the roadway. It had been nearly a year since last he’d seen his brother and sisters. His mouth curved up in a soft smile at the thought of Britnie and Goldy, both married now with little ones of their own. They lived very near one another (as children they had been inseparable), and every so often he would receive a joint letter from both of them letting him know the little details of their lives and of course always hinting that perhaps, if he could see fit to be decent about it, he would bring his wife and daughter to visit the better half of the family. He could see them now, Britnie with her hands on her hips and Goldie wagging her finger at him, when he told them the latest news – they were about to become aunts once more.

He paused, just before he reached the Southgate and brushed the road dust from his breeches and shirt. He pulled back his hair, undone a little in the breeze, and smoothed it into the confines of the leather cord he used to bind it once more. His hands and face he had already washed in a nearby pool – filled to brimming now with water after the recent shower. He had smiled at his reflection in the still water before cupping it in his hands – how lucky to not be bothered with facial hair like his Mannish counterparts. Days of tramping and living rough would have brought them to Bree looking more scurvy than the ruffians they came to warn about.

As it was, the Gatekeeper admitted him but barely, muttering something about odd looking Hobbits. He cast a suspicious eye on his long bow and knife and debated for a moment whether he needed to alert the Bree watch about this overly armed hole dweller. In the end he decided it was too much trouble and waved him in, returning to his perusal of the bottom of the pint one of his friends had so kindly brought him from the Inn.

Berilac walked slowly across the causeway over the dike and through the gate taking in the details of the town’s defenses. He paused once he was well past the hedge and looked back. His eyes narrowed at what he saw, and he ticked off mentally those things that needed to be fixed or strengthened. The earthen-work dike had caved in and filled up in places; the hedge had not been well taken care of and stood thin at various points he could see from where he stood. The gate itself looked as if it had no cross bar to keep out would be intruders. And the flimsy latch on it would not hold back the efforts of a small child he thought to himself. He sighed, taking in the last problem, but not the least – the Gatekeeper . . . drinking on duty.

He turned away from the gate, and trudged up one of the main paths, stopping to ask several Hobbits along the way for directions to Mausi’s house. With any luck he could bunk down at her place, then visit his brother on the morrow. He laughed to himself thinking of Ella and Mondy and little Kali. Perhaps they could be persuaded to walk about the perimeter of the town with him. If anyone knew where the places for easy ins and outs were along the hedge and dike it would be the children.

Reaching his friend’s doorway he noted a largish cart parked just outside, and wondered if one of the Big Folk had brought some business for Mausi and her nimble fingers. No one answered at his light knock, and he turned the handle of the door to let himself in, as she had so often told him to do in the past. He heard voices and paused not wanting to intrude. From his vantage point he saw a tall woman smile at Mausi and extend her hand in farewell. Her words came clearly to him.

‘Your children are safe, and I see that you have a visitor,’ the woman said in parting. ‘I’m afraid I truly must be going. My own son is at the Inn with Cook looking out after him. He’s quite a handful for her, and I need to get home.’ The woman hurried out of the room and down the hall to the door, nodding at Berilac as she passed.

Berilac’s grin widened as he entered the room where Mausi stood, and he gave an astonished gasp when he saw his brother standing off to the side. They embraced, clapping each other heartily on the back. Mausi standing to one side looked on, delighted to see Berilac and to see his brother enjoying the surprise. Berilac broke from his brother’s embrace and swept Mausi into a bear hug, causing her to squeal as he lifted her from the floor, then deposited her into his brother’s astonished arms.

_________________________________________________

She invited them to stay for supper and sent them down to her small side cellar to pick out vegetables for a thick soup. They were drafted into helping her prepare it while she made a pan of biscuits to go with it. It was during the chopping of the carrots and taters that Mausi inquired, in a soft voice, hoping against hope, about her parents and siblings. Had Berilac had a chance to see if there were any news on their whereabouts, she wondered. Rosco, too, looked up expectantly.

‘Aye, I do have news, and better than I ever thought to find.’ He could hear her short intake of breath at this auspicious beginning. ‘Your family is well and they all send their regards to you and the children. They dwell now in the Angle, as the country that lies between Hoarwell and Loudwater is called. There’s a great hobbit settlement there, with many Stoors, established by our southern cousins that have long been separated from us.’

‘The Angle?’ asked Rosco, his brows rising. ‘Yes,’ replied Berilac, ‘not far in distance from where I live, though our way is hidden to them.’

The soup was bubbling merrily and the smell of the browning biscuits made Berilac’s mouth water after days of cold meals eaten quickly on the along the trail. Mausi was busy getting the children ready for dinner – hands and faces washed. And giving them little tasks to set the table for the meal. Rosco, sitting in a chair in the front room, Berilac near him, took the opportunity of this busy diversion to ask his brother the real reason for this visit. Berilac filled him in on the news about the bandits saying that he and one of the Big Folk Rangers would be calling a meeting for all the folk in Bree-land about meeting this threat.

Rosco listened closely and shook his head at what his brother had said and what he expected. ‘I know,’ said Berilac, reading the expression on his brother’s face. ‘It’s going to take some doing . . . and unfortunately not just in fixing the dike and hedge . . .’



_____________________________________________

[ August 20, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Beren87,

A good start indeed!

One minor thing you might want to add.... Since the plot focuses on relations between the Big and Little Folk, you could use a sentence or two to clarify how Minastan feels about hobbits in general, the hobbit rangers he works with, or the general relations between the Big and Little Folk (whatever you'd prefer to handle).

I'm looking forward to your first post.

*******************************************
Pio,

"The Triple Terror"....that poor mother!

Cami

[piosenniel]

Annunfuiniel

Berilac would have been 37 when his family fled their home on the Hoarwell. In my history for him, he is not a Ranger prior to coming to Bree-land. In fact, he makes his decision to join the Rangers on that terrible trip.

He sees his family safely to Bree-land, along with his brother, than he heads back east to find the Ranger settlement in the Angle. I should think he has visited his brother and sisters, as well as his mother, as often as he could, but I do not see him living for any extended period of time in Bree-land.

So, I think it is Rosco who is closest to her and her family. Berilac is a kindly man, and quite enjoys children, so he would of course feel quite protective of anyone of whom his brother was especially fond.

I see Berilac as coming to the area around Bree-land perhaps once a year.

[piosenniel]

First Post for Berilac Woodfarer is on board.

Please advise of any needed changes.

[Beren87]

Revised Personality Description for Minastan

PERSONALITY/STRENGTHS/WEAKNESSES: Minastan is, because of his time’s alone with himself away from town, a smart-aleck when it comes to social interaction. He’s puts up with people well, often explaining things multiple times without ever getting angry, but when he can see the chance to make a wise-crack, he generally seizes upon the moment. This is a put off to some, but he lets it go. He is slow to anger, having attuned his emotions to a point where he’s nearly always in control. Having grown in a village without Hobbits, he was at first oddened by the little folk, but soon learned to live amongst them. Yet, he isn't respectful of his fellow Hobbit Rangers, finding them to meek to do their duties appropriately. He works with them, but doesn't generally rely on them.

Edited to remove pipe-weed referance.

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

First post for Minastan

Minastan walked along the main road in Bree, the Prancing Pony ahead of him in the distance. The notice he carried in his hand, the ink still slightly wet from the Mayor's assitant, waved in his wake. He continued moving on, ignoring the idle stares of the people of the city. A ranger will always draw stares, he said to himself, lofting his position in his mind higher than the people of the city ever cared to do.

Some began to follow him, interested in the paper fluttering in his hand. They gathered around the steps as he climbed them, growing larger as time progressed. He took out a tac, and placed it on the top and bottom of the notice, then proceeded to step to the side, so that the gathered mass would have time enough to read.

He blinked at the crowd around him, the subtle grin on his face mearly covering the amusement he felt inside for their sudden voluminous chaos. His hand rested lightly on the sign he had just posted. The people weren't generally trusting of Rangers as it was, and he knew that, but surely they would take the words of the Mayor?

"What on Earth does this mean?" shouted one man from the crowd, his voice rising above the rest. "Cooperate with Hobbits? What on earth for?"

A tall man in the front of the crowd proceeded to state "You rangers had best be watching where you're posting these things, I'm sure the Innkeeper won't abide by you simply nailing things to the Pony."

Suddenly, a woman came elbowing through the crowd, her recently unoccupied cart easily seen in the road. He smiled down at her from the step, her grim face revealing her grim attitude towards the commotion his notice was posting. She proceeded to proclaim herself the owner of the Inn, bellowing about posting notices without warning. He merely continued pointing at the sign, waiting for her to see the raised seal on the bottom. Suddenly she flushed, noticing the sign of the Mayor, and then apologized for her initial anger.

Her hand shot out to the door, opening it and then inviting him in, leaving the crowd to ponder as they liked. She led him down a small, side corridor, her pace quickening with the assurance of a widower. A door arose out of the end of the hall, their obvious destination. She opened it without a glance, and invited him in. There were a few ruffles of paper upon the desk, which she hurriedly tidied.

"Now then, what's the meaning of all this?

[ August 20, 2003: Message edited by: Beren87 ]

[Annunfuiniel]

Beren – good, now we know how Minastan feels about the Hobbits (do I sense possible trouble coming?? [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] ). One thing though:

especially enjoying their weed.

The Hobbits haven’t learned the “skill” of smoking yet. Too bad, I know! Great job with the post.

Pio – what a great first post! I loved the ‘family reunion’ part at Mausi’s.

But could you change the scene where Beril enters the town a bit? For I don’t think he knows (exactly) where Mausi lives as she has moved to the town only recently (maybe a month earlier). Maybe he’ll ask the Gatekeeper for directions (though I wonder where he’ll end up then&#8230 [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img].

Sharon – I haven’t really had much time to think about the events for each three week ‘session’. But anyway here are some ideas to consider:

Part 1: the conflicts could include one between Mausi and the town’s other seamstress who feels her position threatened, especially when she learns that Andreth has turned to Mausi with her order. Other troubles of this sort seem inevitable. And I don’t see the meeting which the Rangers have called to go very well…

For part 2/the break where things turn for the better: a fire at the Pony, maybe while the children are there at school. Cooperation comes naturally in crisis like that…

Part 3: Last minute reinforcements arrive to Bree from the Angle; some Rangers (Hobbit and Men) – and Beril’s family, with its newest member. Pio, how do you feel about this?

Ok, that’s that for now.

About Rosco’s History: there seems to be nothing to change now that Pio accepted the sisters as part of the family (I wasn’t sure if they were ‘necessary’ or not, that’s why the question mark). Btw. Any ideas where Mimosa Woodfarer would be living?

~Annun

[piosenniel]

The post is edited - Berilac asked some Hobbits for directions.

Fairlight will not be coming to Bree-land. Sorry! But being a cautious man with respect to his family, they are safe within the Ranger encampment - they would not be safe on the journey to Bree. Fairlight would be content to wait for him - her family is there.

The Rangers could certainly bring him news of the birth and whether he has a son or daughter.

[ August 20, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Pio and Annunfuiniel,

Please check your pms.

Cami

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

[Child of the 7th Age]

OK, sorry I have been so tied up this past week. Things should be a bit better now.

Let's take a look at this outline and see what we have. Everyone, please eyeball this and come up with suggestions and specific ideas and examples that can be added in. Nothing here is set in concrete, except perhaps the large A, B, C divisions.

I don't want us to be so tied to an outline that we can't accomodate other subplots, but we do need some idea of which way we're heading.

A. Initial period of growing distrust and suspicion. (3 weeks real time)

1. Rangers bring notice about the bandits and the meeting: folk give their initial reactions in their first posts.

2. Conduct of the meeting: Acrimony, argument and inability to agree on anything; Evidence of discord even among the Rangers.

3. Andreth attempts to start an afternoon school for the children to help bridge the gap between the communities.

4. Step #3 above encounters disaster: anyone have ideas on this? There should be some sort of event which epitomizes the distrust of the two communities and shows them at their nadir.

B. The tide slowly turns: Steps towards rapprochement. (three weeks real time)

1. Perhaps some kind of a crisis where the communities are forced to come together; Annunfuiniel's suggestion about saving the children from a fire might be a good one.

Instead of a fire in the school....how about a forest fire... ? We said there was drought. Perhaps the hobbit children run off into the woods for a holiday and the Big Children follow along in order to tease/torment them---only they all get caught behind the fire lines.

Anyone have any knowledge of fighting forest fires?

2. Several joint missions/projects by Big and Little Folk to prepare for the onslaught.

---spying on the bandits in their lair?
---rebuilding the dyke and wall?
---rounding up the "refugees" from outlying hobbit communities and persuading them to come inside the big fence
---anything else?

C. The Successful Defense (two weeks)

I need help here! I am no expert in battles....

1. Possibly an initial scene where the bandits launch a siege attack against the town and the Breelanders defend themselves on their city walls?

2. Possibly some sort of a party sneaks out of the city by night and tries to set up an ambush to encounter the bandits outside the walls?

3. Some sort of post victory celebration.

Questions:

1. We need to have a few folk pushing for reconciliation even in stage A. From the profiles, it almost sounds as if the hobbit ranger would be the one on the Little Folk's side, and Andreth on the big folks.... What do others think?

Any chance of setting up a sparring type of friendship between Andreth and the human Ranger? Their differing views might make this interesting.

2. If the children are going to play a critical role in the school and fire scenes, how will we manage that with our characters? I am wondering if everyone who plays an adult human or hobbit should also be explicitly told to have a "secondary" child, son or daughter, to participate in these scenes? Otherwise, these posters will be sitting around and getting "bored" while the action is going on with the children.

So far, we have Nuru with Edmund, me with Kali, and Mausi with the rest of her children...

3. Do you think we have the right number of characters? You don't want too few....if you lose someone then, you're in big trouble. But too many is not good either....people tend to get lost in the plotline, and to feel less of a connection to the game.

Any ideas?

[piosenniel]

A. Initial period of growing distrust and suspicion. (3 weeks real time)

1. Rangers bring notice about the bandits and the meeting: folk give their initial reactions in their first posts.

2. Conduct of the meeting: Acrimony, argument and inability to agree on anything; Evidence of discord even among the Rangers.

3. Andreth attempts to start an afternoon school for the children to help bridge the gap between the communities.

4. Step #3 above encounters disaster: anyone have ideas on this? There should be some sort of event which epitomizes the distrust of the two communities and shows them at their nadir.

I have a character I’m working up – 14 y/o son of one of the local pig farmers in Bree. Punky, pimply faced guy. Perhaps I can have him think of something that he and his little gang does, then switches the blame for it to the Hobbit children – pigs gone missing, or killed?!
_____________________________________________

B. The tide slowly turns: Steps towards rapprochement. (three weeks real time)

1. Perhaps some kind of a crisis where the communities are forced to come together; Annunfuiniel's suggestion about saving the children from a fire might be a good one.

Instead of a fire in the school....how about a forest fire... ? We said there was drought. Perhaps the hobbit children run off into the woods for a holiday and the Big Children follow along in order to tease/torment them---only they all get caught behind the fire lines.

Anyone have any knowledge of fighting forest fires?

Unfortunately, at this point in history – there would be no effective method for fighting a forest fire, except to let it burn itself out, and hope for the best that it doesn’t head toward town where the bucket brigade would have to deal with it. How about a fire at an Old Mill (would have to be a wind-powered one)? The Hobbit children use the upper story as a clubhouse (pretend it’s a castle, something like that). The Big folk kids go there to harass them, sneak up the stairs, and in doing so knock over a lantern on the first floor (should be night for this) – starting a fire that traps them in the upper stories.

2. Several joint missions/projects by Big and Little Folk to prepare for the onslaught.

---spying on the bandits in their lair?

---rebuilding the dyke and wall?

---rounding up the "refugees" from outlying hobbit communities and persuading them to come inside the big fence

---anything else?

Gathering up suitable arms for all. Chance for the Big Folk here to make a gesture with offers of smaller sized bows, long knives, etc that their Hobbit compatriots can use. Hobbit smithy can be volunteered to turn out the needed arrowheads and spearheads while the Mannish smithy works on the swords and fitting of blades on the cudgels. I’m sure the players can think of more such stuff.
_____________________________________________

C. The Successful Defense (two weeks)

I need help here! I am no expert in battles....

Let’s all plan the battle once we get nearer to it.

1. Possibly an initial scene where the bandits launch a siege attack against the town and the Breelanders defend themselves on their city walls?

There also needs to be defenses set up on the top of Bree-hill to defray any bandits from sneaking in that way. How many bandits, total, are in this party, by the way?

2. Possibly some sort of a party sneaks out of the city by night and tries to set up an ambush to encounter the bandits outside the walls?

After any bandits who try sneaking up to the top of the Hill are taken care of, The combined forces of Bree can send a contingent of armed Men and Hobbits out that same way to circle round behind the other bandits who are attempting to breech the wall.

3. Some sort of post victory celebration.

Woo hoo!!! Party!!
_____________________________________________

Questions:

1. We need to have a few folk pushing for reconciliation even in stage A. From the profiles, it almost sounds as if the hobbit ranger would be the one on the Little Folk's side, and Andreth on the big folks.... What do others think?

Berilac would be happy to promote this, and will drag his brother in on it.

Any chance of setting up a sparring type of friendship between Andreth and the human Ranger? Their differing views might make this interesting.

This would be a good idea.

2. If the children are going to play a critical role in the school and fire scenes, how will we manage that with our characters? I am wondering if everyone who plays an adult human or hobbit should also be explicitly told to have a "secondary" child, son or daughter, to participate in these scenes? Otherwise, these posters will be sitting around and getting "bored" while the action is going on with the children.

I do think all the adults should have a carry-along child character. Not someone who has to have a fully fleshed out character bio – but just a name, age, race, and a VERY brief history of where they live, what they’ve been taught about the ‘other’ race, and what their thoughts on it are. The player’s main character can be the parent for this child, or even a couple of children if the writer wished to write for a sibling group. Does this sound doable?

So far, we have Nuru with Edmund, me with Kali, and Mausi with the rest of her children...

And you will have Willem ‘Will’ Farrowman, the 14 y/o disaffected teenager from me. That is - if you agree to him.

3. Do you think we have the right number of characters? You don't want too few....if you lose someone then, you're in big trouble. But too many is not good either....people tend to get lost in the plotline, and to feel less of a connection to the game.

I would think 3 maximum 4 each of the Big and Little Folk might be enough – considering they will also be doing carry-along child characters. That gives the game 6 to 8 players, plus all the dedicated players (Cami, Annun, Beren, Pio, Nuru) and 2 bandits. That makes 13 to 14 players if we cut down the number of Big and Little folk. What do you think?

[Child of the 7th Age]

Pio,

This sounds good--especially your nasty character, the number of posters to invite, and the idea about the mill. I am leary of getting so many posters that we lose a sense of connection. I'll get back on Monday with a more detailed response to you (point by point) on the thread.

Annunfuiniel is in transit from vacation with her family to her regular home this weekend. So I will be surprised to hear from her before Tuesday.

Beren, Nuru -- please do add your comments and ideas.

Cami

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

[Beren87]

Evidence of discord even among the Rangers.

Yes, I'd like to emphasize Ranger-Ranger interaction quite a bit, especially in my own posts. I set up my character's profile to set the mood for future distrust of the rangers.

Minastan isn't a hobbit...hating character, per-se, he just doesn't think they have the same abilities. The fire is an excellent idea to show that the Hobbits are able to do more than the Big Folk think.

[Annunfuiniel]

Hullo, I'm back! (And boy have I ever been on more exhausting 'vacation' than the one that just ended!)

Ok, things seem to be moving forward nicely.

I'll gladly welcome Willem to our crew; he sounds like a character who'll put things rolling, may that then be desirable or not (mental image: Will &co. stuffing little Kali into a barrel and rolling it down the Bree-hill. Sorry, couldn't resist!). [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img]

About the fire then: I'd still prefer the forest fire. I think the mill would burn down so fast that a successful rescue operation seems impossible to organize, in time. (I'm no expert in this, so please tell me if I'm totally lost here.) It's true the means of fighting a forest fire weren't very efficient but the Breelanders can at least try and keep the fire from expanding by digging trenches and cutting down the trees before the fire line while a rescue group goes to search the children. This would be a good opportunity for the Hobbits to prove themselves useful, what with the digging and all... Ok, that's my two pennies.

Total of 13-14 players sounds right to me so we definately should reduce the number of Big and Little Folk to max. 4 each.

Piosenniel, good question about the bandits; how many there'll be. I don't know for sure but they'd have to be quite numerous (tens at least, maybe closer to one hundred?), after all they are considered to be a real threat. Or are they? Maybe the townspeople don't take this threat as seriously as they should at first? Sharon, what say you?

Also about the bandits: I believe they'll appear in posts from the very beginning of the game: planning the attack, scouting, 'recruiting' more baddies etc. This leaves me wondering what might be the reason they won't attack until later? Don't they know that their existence and plan has been revealed? Maybe they need reinforcements? Would some smaller attack (or attempt of such) before the real onslaught be plausible? This might possibly feature in the stage B.

Ok, I'll let you consider these thoughts for a while now.

~Annun

[piosenniel]

Digging ditches is a possibility - since they are doing this all by hand it would require many, many of them in this effort which would be good. And they could clear brush away from the established fireline.

But cutting down trees is somewhat implausible, given the tools they had to work with - felling a single tree could be a whole day's operation.

The fire would need to be in a large isolated copse if you didn't want it spreading from tree top to tree top and rushing toward the villages. Perhaps one that abuts up against a tall, bare hillside - maybe one with a little cave the children think they will be safe in.

I did ask my husband (he just finished managing a large forest fire where we live) what he thought would happen given the possible technology of that time. He could see establishing a cleared, fireline - then he added - 'Their best hope would be that the wind changed and blew the fire back in on itself.' That, of course, would be even more dangerous for the trapped children.

As to how they would go through the fire - some would need to bear a water source - those going inside the fire perimeter would need to keep their clothes wet, a wet cloth over their hair, and a wet bandana tied across their nose and mouths to breath through.

Just some suggestions - are we looking at only one day or ? for this rescue to take place?

[Annunfuiniel]

Thank you, Pio, for the info: great to have an expert's view on things. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

Perhaps one that abuts up against a tall, bare hillside - maybe one with a little cave the children think they will be safe in.

Yes, I think hiding is an instinctive way for the children to react in a situation like that (or that's what I've been told).

So maybe this isn't really a fight against the fire but against time: maybe the rescuers manage to go round the fire front (come down the suggested hillside or something like that? Those Men and the few Hobbits that have horses could perhaps manage the circling?) and find the kids just in time. Would this work?

~Annun

[Child of the 7th Age]

Regarding the "forest fire" that I first mentioned. True confessions: this wasn't actually an original idea. Has anyone read the Darkover series by Marian Zimmer Bradley? I read this series a long time ago, but if I remember correctly fire was a constant thread in that "primitive" society. (There was some interaction with the more technologically advanced Earth, but machines and such were banned.)

However, I also think things were organized a little differently in Darkover than in Middle-earth. They actually had people watching the forests and a system of fire beacons set up to give advance warnings to the communities. The whole community turned out to battle the blazes. And they had some psi gifted individuals who could communicate with each other, kind of like osanwe. Obviously, most of that wouldn't apply to Bree.

So I'm not an expert on what would actually be feasible within the context of Middle-earth. But I do think we have complete freedom at this point how long the fire and/or rescue would take. We can craft that however we want. It's an interesting idea if it's feasible. Pat, since you have more knowledge in this area, or at least access to knowledge, I'll be curious to see what you say on this. What's reallistic and what's not? Would Annun's idea about rescuing the children and letting the fire burn out work?

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

Regarding the bandits.....

It would seem to me that a lot of people in Rhudaur would have been displaced by the Nazgul's movement in the mountains, not just hobbits, as everything pushed westward. By 1350 that entire kingdom of Rhudaur would fall under the Hillman who were in league with Angmar. Is it possible that some hints of this started as early as 1305, with individual villages in the eastern parts of Rhudaur being wiped out by the Orcs or hillmen or such? That would explain why large groups of people were turned out on the road and became "outlaws" as they headed west. They'd be pretty desperate by the time they reached Bree, especially in a time of dearth.

Is this possibly the kind of phenomenon behind our "bandits"? In this case, we'd be talking about fairly large numbers. Perhaps we should call them "outlaws" instead of bandits to get the right tone across?

I don't want to turn these outlaws into angels, but it does soften the picture a bit. But Tolkien himself does this in his depictions of certain peoples -- i.e. Sam's reaction to the fallen Easterling. I guess I'm asking if we want to paint the baddies only in "black" tones, or to have some "black and grey" mingled together?

(Pio, remember my post on Stoatie's childhood?)

Another question.....do we want these outlaws to be working totally independently, or do we want them to have established any ties at all with the forces of darkness (as the Hillmen did in the next forty years?).

I am really thinking out loud at this point and would appreciate some help in sorting this out as to what is possible and what is not.

So my guess is that whoever writes for the bandits would be representing a small "community" of outlaws, more than just a handful. If they're not professional baddies, but persons driven by circumstance, this would explain why they waited to attack Bree. They themselves might be split as to what to do.

My preference is that the outlaws are not aware that Rangers have picked up on the clues and understand that an attack on Bree might be immiment.

As I think about it, if we were to get one more dedicated character, perhaps it should be an outlaw. We have rangers, hobbits and humans who are dedicated characters. But perhaps we should have an outlaw be in on the planning? They would be pretty critical in directing the story. That person would need to delineate how they'd been forced out on the road, finally made their decision to attack, etc.

If we decide to do this, is there anyone we might ask?

How does all this sound?

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

I will adjust the number of characters in the proposal.

Cami

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

[Annunfuiniel]

Sharon,

Sounds good! I've Pmed the person we talked about. *twiddles thumbs while waiting for the reply*

If they're not professional baddies, but persons driven by circumstance, this would explain why they waited to attack Bree. They themselves might be split as to what to do.

Yes, this would surely explain their inability to act sooner. Maybe the two outlaws played by individuals should represent these differing views in their extreme?

~Annun

[Annunfuiniel]

Please welcome the newest member of our fine group: Taralphiel! [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

She'll be playing the leader of the outlaw band as a dedicated character. Hope we hear from you soon, Tara! I'll throw you a PM too.

~Annun

[Child of the 7th Age]

Tara,

Welcome! I'm so glad you've agreed to play. The outlaws have grown in importance and complexity since we first envisioned this game so your strong posts will be most welcome. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

Everyone,

I'll be working on the earlier part of the proposal today acording to what we've already discussed: revising the numbers, the description of the outlaws and their background, and adding the requirement that every human and hobbit poster carry along one child. When I finish, I'll put it forward on the thread for everyone to see.

This RPG will be a challenging one: we'll initially have three subplot - human, hobbit, and outlaw, with the rangers running back and forth between all of these. The human and hobbit subplots will quickly join together, but the outlaws will remain separate till later in the game.

Those dedicated characters playing in each of the subplots may occasionally need to give a helping hand or hint on the discussion thread or even by pms to less experienced writers. With two to three subplots going, it's easier to get confused so we'll need to pitch in together!

Cami

[ August 27, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[piosenniel]

Welcome, Tara!

Looking forward to writing with you again! [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

~~ Pio

[Nurumaiel]

Apologies for being so slow in getting Edmund's profile up. I've been reading along with the discussion thread and thinking about him a lot, and all I have left to do now is to type it. It will be this week, providing the computer doesn't break down or something to that measure ( [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] ), all I need is that little bit of free time.