A
Rider’s Tale
by Eomund
It was late when Eomund arrived in the Shire. The black curtain of night drew out and was covering the whole landscape with an inky, black glow. The stars too were out, scattered around the sky and shining, shining just like the Silmarils of old had done in the Elven lands that were now either perished from the battles that had happened there, or else had just been engulfed by the cruel sands of time. He crossed the Brandywine river that was flowing throughout Hobbiton like some gigantic piece of ribbon that was constantly flowing and could not be stopped. He crossed the hill, overlooking Hobbiton and saw the village laid out before him. Many of them had their lights extuinguished and had long since slipped into the deep slumber of sleep, but there was one whose lights were on. Glaring out in the darkness like four beady orange glows that pierced the black curtain that had drawn itself around Hobbiton.
Both Eomund and his faithful steed, Firebrand, made their way along the row of small, quaint Hobbit Holes that were covered with flowers and plants which not only signified he was in The Shire, but also that he was in the right area for the one thing he would always remember about this place - its love of botany. Finally, towards the end of the row he spotted a large rose tree in a fairly spacious garden which signified he was in the right place. “Woah there,” he said softly to Firebrand who slowed down outside the door of Number 10, Bagshot Row. Eomund got off his faithful steed and went up the garden path with his heavy bag pack strapped to his shoulder. His leather-heeled boots crunched quietly on the gravel as he approached the front door. He took his walkng stick and tapped three times on the round, dark red door. He was only waiting a minute or two when the door was opened with a slight creak and a Hobbit was revealed, standing in the doorway. He allowed Eomund into the hole and then went out to see to Firebrand. Eomund went into the sitting room where a great many hobbit children were sat around a handsome, leather rocking chair, awaiting his tales. Eomund sat himself in the chair and reached into his bag for his leather bound Book of Tales which he carried everywhere with him.
“The men that dwell in the Mark are a curious lot,” he began deliberately keeping his tone steady “sometimes they can be as pleasant as a summer’s eve and on other occasions can be as quiet as a mouse and not say a word to you, unless given good reason to. When I visited them last however, there were many things that they were talking about. Some massive, some rather minor, but something which seemed to be of particular importance was the recent departure of a renowned rider by the name of Caewyn Sharashi. She served The Riddermark for many years but, sadly, moved on to the Blessed Realm not two months ago. All who cared for her are currently paying homage to her at the monument set up in her memory.”
Eomund paused from a moment and looked up from his book at the captivated audience who were now sitting before him. There were some who had tears in their eyes, those who had known Caewyn best and some looked saddened but did not fully appreciate how much she had done for the Riddermark for they had not known her that well. He continued when the silence was too much to bear.
“However, there are also tidings which are good to hear from the Land of the Horse-Lords” Eomund said with a smile at all of the little Hobbits sitting around him “Every month the rulers of the great lands, King Eomer and Queen Eowyn, reward a few riders who they feel have served the great kingdom best both in times of need and in times of peace. The month of June saw Lady Daewyn, Lord Hal, and Lord Searogrim receive this great honour and all those who know (and a great many who don’t from neighbouring kingdoms) have gathered to congratulate them in The Field of Celebam if you would like to visit.
In addition to these glad tidings, we have the Meduseld re-enactment team who specialise in re-enacting famous battles or quests from our very own rich history. At the moment they are re-enacting the infamous “Ride of Eorl” which tells the story of how Lord Eorl and his Eothed rode to the rescue of the Gondorians when they came under attack in the Second Age. Although they are not currently looking for participants for the Eothed, anyone from any kingdom, of any age, is more than welcome to visit them and watch their progress. It is a most entertaining performance, that I can guarantee for I myself play the part of Eorl in it!”
He noticed a few of the younger Hobbits gasp out loud at this revelation and the applause broke out. “Yes, thank you my dear Hobbits, thank you very much” Eomund said, quieting them down. We now move on to the month of July which is proving to be more exciting than the month of June was. As I said previously, the Lord and Lady of the Mark have taken to rewarding their subjects whom they feel have performed and served the kingdom excellently during the past month with a little present from them. This month, we must congratulate Lady Æmma, Lady Measceasky, and Lady Greenbean if you wish to congratulate them personally please visit The Field of Celebam in the Riddermark.”
Eomund paused and looked around the room. There was quiet in the cosy room where the only sound that could be heard was the fire crackling merrily in the grate. “And now my Hobbits,” Eomund said, trying to create a little build up as this was the most important item out of all he had spoken of that night. “It is time for me to tell you of a very grand event in The Riddermark’s culture. It is called The Summer Festival. This is a huge festival to which everyone from all the corners of Middle Earth is invited. In this festival there are four events of special significance. There is the Obstacle Course, the Badger Races, the Tournament of Arms and finally the Mearas Masquerade.” Eomund saw several very confused faces “However, let me enlighten you all” he added.
The Obstacle Course involves ten riders. There are ten rounds in total. The riders choose which way they go, either left or right, and the obstacle they have to tackle depends on which direction they choose. The tenth round is a gigantic maze with everything from orcs to cave trolls in there which they must get through and whichever contestant finishes the maze first is the Champion of the Course.
The Badger Chase is a race. However, rather than race horses or something of this kind, they race badgers. One badger is released at the gate of the Riddermarket, and all competitors will chase after the badger on their horse. There are a maximum of twenty Riders per race and any amount of spectators can watch.
The Tournament of Arms is a very grand event which involves ten competitors and three main rounds. There is the archery round, the ring tilt, and the jousting round. Each round is worth a maximum of thirty points and the rider with most points at the end wins.
Finally the Masquerade. This festival is about celebrating the wonderful horses we all know and love, and how better than by giving them their very own party? It is held in the large stables where the horses stay in comfort and warmth when they are not riding, and there they throw a party to be counted among all horses as a true party.”
Eomund closed the book and rubbed his eyes with the rough edges of his fingers. “That my little Hobbits concludes my tale for the hour is late and it is time you were all snug away in your beds” he said closing the book and standing up..
The
Mysterious Realm of the Wizards
by Treoweblaed
Not long ago did I find myself riding towards the borders of Isengard, the land of mystery and mayhem. I had begged my superiors to spare me the journey, but they had forced me to go. Why, you may ask? To ensure the safe return of our beloved Eowyn, should she be acquitted at her trial. A trial where Lady Eowyn’s stunningly natural golden locks had been unjustly targeted by the ever-persistent Pearsomir. For all the love in my heart towards Lady Eowyn, I could not have put myself within Isengard for all the gold in Middle Earth. “Those Wizards are always up to no good,” my mother used to always tell me, “Never trust a Wizard, never.”
And yet there I was, riding my stallion across Isengard’s borders, into the realm of magic, mystery and mayhem. It was early when I arrived, and thought I might grab a bite to eat at the first pub I could find. Passing through the eerie streets, the hair on the back of my neck stood on end.
Music suddenly filled my ears. A smile played upon my face as I imagined listening to a heartfelt song sung beautifully in the summer air. How wrong I was. When the voices began, I clutched at my ears. It wasn’t music…it was karaoke! There was no way I could possibly stay with that wailing all around me, so I hurried onwards to the next pub I could find. Thankfully there was no singing further on the road, and I thought I might find somewhere decent. That was until I reached the doors of the Troll’s Haven Pub. The sign above the door should have given it away, but I foolishly walked inside without so much of a glance at it. What first hit me was the smell…it wasn’t human.
Suddenly a Troll approached with a smile on her face. The dreadlocks hung down loosely and she grinned at my shocked expression. In my frozen state I gazed about the room and saw the palm trees and decorations, surrounding several more Trolls and Wizards. “What in Bema’s name…” was all I could utter. I had left when my senses returned, my heart pounding as I galloped down the cobbled street.
Orthanc! That was where I wanted to go, away from the strangeness of the pubs. Surely I would find refuge nearby the mighty tower? Refuge, perhaps…but not without the commotion of conspiracy, murder, kidnapping and evil shadows. Wizards ran to and fro, chaotically racing about the Tower, ignoring my very presence. When I finally found escape in a room, I was only met by the Council of the Wise discussing the history of the little Halfling Bilbo and the Arkenstone. They waved me off in the direction of another hallway where I found myself in the middle of an induction ceremony. The names of Alteru, Mithhen, Melia, Mithelen and Trillian were announced, and I watch in awe as they were inducted into the Order of Anor.
Moments later, another Wizard crept beside me and showed me the way outside. A kind old man he was, and he led me through my paranoia. On the way to the Court Room we passed an unusual golf course where the tournament of “Valinor Meets The Golfimbul” was well underway. I mused at the games of the Wizards and soon found myself amidst the Old Angren Street Market. People rushed to and fro and above all the noise I heard the calls of an auction. Upon closer inspection, it became evident that some of the stores were being auctioned off.
A fellow Rohir had just placed a bid on Gelir Gannèl, and I fought my way to the front of the mass to hear any counter bids, but all was silent. Another voice broke through the air and Darkholm placed a bid on Harney’s shop. I wasn’t able to hear the end of the auction due to niggling old Wizard still adamant on leading me to my destination.
I had made the foolish mistake of relaxing a little as the old man led me along, for as I rounded another bend an open field greeted me. But the skies erupted. Flashes of light and colour reflected in my horrified eyes as my ears filled with the booming sound of fireworks. The Istari’s Illuminators Guild had begun their July celebrations, but my soul crumbled. It was true…the magic of the Wizards existed!
The old Wizard merely laughed as I mounted my stallion and took off, bound for the safety of Rohan and away from the mayhem of Isengard. Lady Eowyn would have to find her own way home, without the company of an escort. My feverish ride home was taunted by the voice of my mother in the back of my mind whispering, “I told you so, never meddle in the business of Wizards, for their magic, mysterious and mischievous ways are beyond your understanding.”
Attack of the Bovin
by TMM Lupines
It was a particularly unusual morning when I found myself stirring to the sound of the dull lowing of a dozen or so cows. At least, I assumed it was morning...sometimes it was hard to tell when you lived underground. Some of the cows were idly sitting in my quarters, their speckled bodies outstretched on the floor because if they stood they would bash their little horns on the perilously low ceiling. A few were still sitting in the hallway outside, I realised with a groan, and then it struck me that the odd banging I had heard last night was of drunken miners finding the way back to their chambers blocked by a herd of not-so-placid cows. That was another thing I had to sort out. The rest of the bovines had been shunted off into the chambers of the Little Mattock, the deputy leader of the Morog clan. She was out for the week, and breaking into her room had never seemed so urgent when a pack of my beloved creatures were standing at my shoulder still shivering and dripping rainwater. The storm had not been the reason I had moved them out from their mountainside home, however. It still filled me with horror, thinking of the lifeless heaps of bones that had previously been Sally and Chorkin. They were amongst the first prey to a trio of dragons that were invading the kingdom.
I sighed as I armed myself and absent-mindedly patted a few of the animals on the head. The Morogs were one of KD’s seven clans - the mining clan, and in my mind still the best. But everyone was suffering of late, including the clan leaders, their deputies, and the senior army officers. They had all been summoned to a War Council to try and deal with the threat, and I didn’t envy them the job. I couldn’t help but think what should happen if a dragon had somehow stumbled across them during a meeting, with all of the kingdom’s most powerful converged in one small chamber. I tried not to smile at the potentially destructive thought, but something must have given, as the cows were looking at me with questioning gazes. I stood by the door a moment, thinking quickly. Every clan had orders to try and help live out this siege, but I knew they could do without me. No one had missed me last night when I was sneaking up to the cow farm had they? I nuzzled Verona’s jaw with my hand, before suddenly darting through the doorway and slamming the thick wooden door behind me. I could deal with my pets later. They were safe where they were, and they had already feasted last night on enough of my beard and clothing to surely fill their stomachs for the rest of the morning.
The day had began at midnight up on the mountaintop. I was trying to lure the herd into an impossibly narrow tunnel, in a darkness so thick I couldn’t see my own boots, in the pouring rain with thunder crackling overhead and lightning streaking the sky, with danger hanging thick in the air and a chill fear paralysing the leg muscles of every cow. But this seemed to add extra energy to their chomping jaws and frenzied lowing. The day continued in a similar fashion as I ran into a cow still lurking in the corridor, and then backed away so fast I forgot to look where I was going and ended up tripping over a slumbering dwarf. I picked myself off the floor angrily, glad for once I had nowhere special I needed to go as I paused to consider my scuffed boots messed beard. The still soundly sleeping dwarf was in an Anghâk uniform, albeit one covered in ale stains and cow saliva, that showed he was a melee soldier in KD’s army. Not too long ago I had worn a similar outfit myself, but the last time I had was against the recent goblin invasion. An army of the scum had fought their way past our scouts and were beginning their main incursion when we set out to meet them, and with a mixture of canny tactics and sheer force of arms we wiped them out from the realm. The army got plenty of action, I had to admit, especially when we now faced a few dragons encircling our borders.
I kept on my way, attracting only a few openly curious glances from the dwarves I passed. Most people had learnt to avoid my notice a long while back, especially here, in my clan halls. I was working my way upwards, and soon I was traveling through the main passageways of the kingdom. Everywhere I looked I saw hurrying dwarves and nervous, tense eyes; a sign that the current state of affairs was affecting everyone. Even the coronation of a new Queen could not lift the worried atmosphere. It had been upsetting for all to see Queen Hrive resign, and I inwardly wished her well. But now we had a new ruler, Queen Alameda, and I knew the grin on my face reflected the pride that was surging through my chest. She would do well beside her husband, King Delny, I just knew it! Or at least I hoped she would, as right now we needed a strong ruler more than ever. Even better, she was a Morog too! And she had befriended my cows, or at least she had braved the farm and returned still the owner of a full set of limbs. My path took me past a relatively new addition to the kingdom, the KD playground. It was opening once more in September, hosting games and a good way to spend coins. I planned on visiting it come the autumn, if I still lived.
I tried to enter the Throne Room to check on recent affairs, but the Berserkers on guard stopped me without even questioning me. Evidently they had not recognised me as their former commander, but as I looked down I could see why. My brown tunic had been bleached with ale and my hair was a fuzzy mess encompassing my head. Various scratches lined my arms, and there were even a few bald patches on my chin. I carefully moved away, not wanting to embarrass myself further. Maybe it would be best if I did go back to my rooms soon. I headed back to the Morogs with my face a mask of grim determination. The next few months would be a trial for all of KD, not just a test for my hair to see if it would ever regain its normal texture.
Happenings
in Gondor
by Arteris Silverquill
Chronicling the last few months is a task that is no small one, but to try to condense the happenings into a short form, that is where the challenge comes in. But I have always been a man of challenges, and challenges of the quill seem to be my specialty. So let me turn my head backwards, since memory isn’t always my strongest virtue:
Ah, but of course! How could I forget that, resignations and coronations, yes! After long terms of services, Naith Liathant and Laielinwen removed their crown and tiara, respectively, and announced it was time to move forward. Their long years of service will not be soon forgotten by the men and women who wear the black, and their influence will be forever impacted into the stones of Minas Tirith. Their successors came as no surprise to many, as Tarkano and Tiana were offered the thrones, and with high hopes and large expectations, they both graciously accepted. For the past couple months, they have worked and adjusted, and have already fallen into the groove of things. Naith and Laie have been called away by the winds, and where their paths have taken them we can only hope to hear in future days, to bask in the stories they are sure to have for us.
As for military affairs, the campaigns in the South near Tir Ethraid, have, for the most part, come to completion. Reserve Captain Finduilas Fael is currently conducting a followup mission with some of the Reserves, and their outcome is yet to return to the White Tower. We can only assume that they will return safely. The situation in Dol Amroth has calmed for now, but there are reports that things may flare up once more.
The past months have brought the goodbyes of several of our finest men and women, to business away in foreign lands, extended military campaigns, or resignation and retirements of duties. Gondor suffered a great loss as Sir Hoyamir Saxelain was called away on his own duties, and we have not heard from him since his departure. We all hope that he is well. Thorongil has retired his titles in the White City and gone off on business, as has Gwaihir. Mathen Nors, who had left some moons ago, is still serving in foreign lands, and everyday we pray that he is safe. Some faces have waned, while some are arriving again, and I fear memory will not allow me to go into detailed comings and goings, but we send our best regards to those who are away from us, and to those who have recently returned.
Other than these few things, life remains fairly constant. The Scribes and Sages’ Guild has taken off under the hand of myself, and is the first of several Guilds to get up and running. The Guild expansions, formulated by Naith and Laie, are just now getting off the ground, and we hope that they will expand in the future. Word has reached my ears that our Debaters are again in the playoffs, and looking to bring home the championship trophy once more. The Pelennor Pigskin league has been on hiatus for some time, with transfer of commissioners, hiring of new staff, collapse of a few teams, and restructuring; but the season is ripe to continue again very soon. The inter-kingdom race season has begun as well, and Gondor seems to be having some trouble in the early season, but we are hoping to turn that around and make a run for it all.
There are, as always, many more things to report than I have time (or ink) to write down. I will just leave anyone reading with these words: Our gates are always open, the doors of our inns always welcoming to foreigners. If ever you are passing our way, please don’t hesitate to rest for a spell in the city of stone. We are always glad to treat to visitors, and hear tales of distant lands and different things.
And with that, I will sign off, thank you for sharing your time with me, and may the coming days be happy and fortunate.
Light
on the Water
by Keleos Nenharma
Keleos unwrapped the bundle, removing the heavy tome from the thick cloth that wrapped it. She did not dare to touch it, and for three months it had sat on her mantelpiece quietly. Her hands ran over the cover of the book, feeling the oldness sweep right through her. Tonight, as she sat by the Bruinen, she was going to write all that happened in Imladris, a single month after her brother had left, just so that she could carry on with what her forefathers had began to do.
She lifted her quill to a fresh page, and began to write.
“There has to be an unspeakable number of changes in Imladris these months, and even as I write, I’m suspecting that something could happen anytime.
“The month of May marked great changes in the Kingdom of Imladris. Laebeth left the Last Homely House to cross the Sea, becoming the Lady Yavanna, giver of the fruits and much respected in the land. Tinw was up to fill her shoes as the Lord Elrond, partnering with Taramiluiel. With their wonderful partnership, we know that Imladris will only see better days. Of course, the month would not be complete without the coming of several special characters: Diava bringing in Celebrian, Isilindil bringing in Elrohir and Morfindel coming along with Gildor. The final months were marked down with the interesting Host of Imladris activity of an Obstacle course.
“June came silently and quickly, bringing on great cheer to the valley. Yet the month was marked with a great disaster, some may call it, for one morning, the valley was ablaze. As some struggled to put out the blaze, others decided that Rivendell was in need of a makeover, and camps began to form. At the end of all things, Arwil was found to be the culprit and promptly put into prison, where she will continue to plot for more things to come. By the end of the month, there was news rife in the valley the many of the regiment of Elves had gone missing after a fearsome storm that caught them unconscious. When they were found, all safe, save for a few cuts and scratches, the elves all heaved a great sigh of relief. A further few elves were recognised this month for their wonderful contributions to the valley, Ailaya as Celebrían, Cumehtar as Gilgalad, and Galen as Erestor.”
“July was the month of the endings, as it marked the end of the debate season. This was celebrated by the special occasion of Athrabeth Nuin Gilliath, or Debate under the Host of Stars. This was painstakingly arranged by Lorinol Noldo, who himself was honoured as one of the top few debaters in all of Middle Earth. The Elven Artist Association also saw, sadly, the end of a wonderful artist. In a touching tribute arranged by them, Hirillonwe was remembered, as news came early that month that he was lost to the Halls of Mandos. In another bittersweet event, there came news of a ship leaving for the Grey Havens, and elves made the painful decision whether to leave, or not to leave. In this spirit of poignant separation, Eglagaladiel was honoured as Elladan, Eragorn as Gilgalad, and Nuladiel as Erestor.”
And now we have finally come into August, Keleos thought wistfully, as she remembered the day her brother told her that he would be leaving for the Western Shores. Her finger traced the page she had written on, as she felt the coolness of the night wind come to her. The valley was a wonderful place at night, though it was hard when it came to leaving and separation. She shut the heavy volume containing years of histories, effectively shutting out her thoughts as well. The time would come again when she would reopen it and write something more than this.
When it came to loss and separation, people tend to meet again.
Goodbye
in the Golden Wood
by Firien Echui
There is one bright, shining event in Lothlorien in the month of July that stands out above all others. As we know, our former Lady Galadriel Imfalas, who served the kingdom faithfully for over a year has stepped down, but this month after quite a lengthy wait, Lorien finally has its new Lady of Light. As we say goodbye to one of Lorien’s most unanimously favored rulers we say hello to young hopeful Nenedhel Engrin, who has been named for the position and has now assumed her place beside our Lord Celeborn. Many were surprised with this decision, as she is a relative unknown in the forest who has of late been scarcely seen, but we all have faith that she will do well with her new place on the throne of the Golden Wood. Already she has become more active in the forest and can be seen in numerous places including the Garment Crafters of Lorien, which she herself manages after the departure of its founder Alatarwen.
Otherwise the Wood continues on as it always does in its typically prosperous fashion. The Gardens grow and thrive, drawing closer with each day to a bountiful harvest. The Lawn of Lorien is bustling with happy faces from all over Middle earth who come to spend time with their Elven friends in Lothlorien. The Elves themselves have encountered a rather odd predicament though, as several were turned into animals of all sorts, and the great mellyrn began to wither and fall. The source of this most peculiar problem is yet to be found, but we hope to discover its source before too many things have gone awry. Even as this occurs though many parts of the forest go on as usual. Macili o Lothlorien, a reincarnation of our former dueling grounds, the Glade of Honour, has opened this month and is ready to take fighters looking for a beautiful locale to hold their duels, or just to brush up on their training. The guilds are also busy this month, and area always looking for new members so if you are interested in music, poetry, or architecture stop by and check them out.
Fangorn in Flames
by RohRowFire
The last quarter in Fangorn started innocently enough - with a good spring cleaning. Our fearless rulers Morim and Mojo decided that Fangorn was looking just a little bit dusty and needed “spruced” up a bit! All members of the forest were asked for their ideas and suggestions on how to revamp the old threads as well as discussing ideas for new threads. It was during this cleaning spree that the idea for the Open RPGs was born. This brilliant idea is a first for any kingdom, and allows any forest-dweller, of any rank, to open an RPG of their own without having to get ruler permission. Not only does this encourage those shy Ents among us to try something, but it’s also given us several RPG’s that are different from the usual fare. Our Open RPGs are not only open to all Ents to run, but open to all members of the Plaza to participate in, so next time you feel the need for seed, come and give one a try!
One open RPG that garnered quite a bit of attention was the Adminmania Cage Match of Doom. This stemmed from a prior auction in KD where some of the rulers and admins were auctioned off to the highest bidder. Being as I bought one Miss Varda - Lady of the Stars and Star Flower had purchased the Hothinator of Doom, well it only seemed logical to throw them together in a cage and have them fight to the death, right? Several other brave R/As stepped into the cage that day - Vairë owned and operated by Pellakal, Mahal owned and operated by Delnynalvor, Gléowine owned and operated by Tangled Axe, Tom Bombadil owned and operated by Eithil, and Fëanor owned and operated by Laurieanna. As planned, Miss Varda kicked bootay and was down to the very last contender, one Mr. Bombadil, when the shock of the century (to the betting world at least) took place - Mr. Bombadil managed to live! Yes the musically challenged blue and yellow boy took home the championship trophy. We think he cheated of course, and our lawyers are still trying to settle the matter.
And speaking of auctions, another Open RPG brought us the BachelorENT auction where Fangorn’s finest male-type residents were auctioned off. The entire auction was loads of fun for all the bidders, with some of the contestants throwing out rather large bribes in addition to their own manliness to up the ante. The biggest news story from that auction is that a relative newcomer, Region, brought in more money than our aged leader, Morim - please consider it your civic duty to tease Morim terribly about that one. Our suspicions are that his lovely wife Sere rigged the bidding so she would have something to hold over him during one of their many lover’s quarrels, but as of yet we have found no proof that would stand up in an Entmoot.
There have been several other exciting things happening in the forest of late besides the Open RPGs. The TreeGarth, Fangorn’s defense squad, has revamped and reopened, welcoming anyone of any race who wishes to help protect the forest. Under the leadership of Akaja and Moicalindale, the TreeGarth has come back with style, first with a reunion pulb, then headquarters, and now the beginning of basic training. My evil roots adore anyone willing to spend time to protect me, it gives me more time to further my plans of a take-over. Oops, I wasn’t supposed to mention that part! *ahem* The TreeVoice, Fangorn’s first-rate newspaper, flourished under the editorship of Silver, but alas a large boulder fell on the poor dear causing severe brain damage. It was in that state of mind that she wandered off to Imladris to wear the orange and yellow, leaving us without an editor. We miss her dearly, of course, but her editorship was bravely taken up by Lanthir Lamath, who I believe is currently paying Old Woman Willow to conduct an auction for a co-editor. The one with the most nuts wins! And if you think Ents just sit around and moot all day, well you haven’t seen our lovely updated kingdom pages. Several hard-working Ents re-organized, re-wrote, and re-drew what can only be called a masterpiece! Check them out when you have a chance.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention all the new blood in Fangorn (or new sap in some cases). I myself left my purple flame candle behind and joined the forest, closely followed by the purple-haired elf Pan Macha, and most recently by the Dark Numenorean resident of Khazad-Dum - Star Flower. Another newcomer, not just to the forest but to the Plaza in general, by the name of Region, has made a big dent already by garnering an admin tribute rank after only about 3 months of membership. Just goes to show that us Ents can be hasty if we need to be.
The biggest news to hit Fangorn, yes even bigger than the lovely Roh joining the woods, is that the Olympics are coming! You heard correctly - the Olympics are coming! Fangorn has been awarded the rights to hold this year’s Plaza Olympics in our own backyard. And we have a big backyard! Games are currently in the planning stages, all Ents are encouraged and welcomed to give their input. And if anyone is on the fence about maybe joining Fangorn, all I can say is that we could sure use your help. We have many games planned and will need lots of threadrunners and athletes to help us continue the tradition of the host country winning the most medals. *does a Mick Jagger impersonation and begs and pleads for your sympathy - I don’t mind, ’cause it means that much to me* The Fangorn Olympics will begin with haunted forest opening ceremonies correlating with Halloween - attend if you dare!
Alas, I’m afraid that I must dash off to the Entwash now. You see myself and the entire forest has recently been set afire. That’s right, many of our beautiful trees are fully aflame in brilliant oranges and reds, making even the flaming Eye of Sauron look drab. This is what happens when both rulers take the same weekend to be away and before departing make the Ents promise to NOT burn down the forest. Haven’t M&M heard of reverse psychology? Anyway, someone decided that an Ent promise was just made to be broken and poof! the entire woods has gone up in flames. I blame the minions of Mordor myself. They just couldn’t stand the thought of evil residing in lush greenery instead of their old dry dusty barren land. Yup, it was the minions, of that I’m sure...
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Out
From Beneath My Rock
by Orc #696
On the rare occasion that I actually come out from beneath my rock, it was to my pure horror (aka delight) to discover that there is a larger assortment of minions wandering throughout the Black Lands. Why did this tickle my fancy? For the reason that one can not go around killing all that are good without at least corrupting the corruptible to keep the kingdom stocked with fresh blood. One never knows when we might get trapped within the mountains that encircle Mordor once again. Like the time before the War of the Ring. Never again do I wish to live in such close quarters with a bunch of such miserable whingers like back then. The memory still haunts me to this day. And we won’t even mention that time when Shagrat decided to run nude through the Tower of Cirith Ungol…
I was told that the sun rose this morning, though I am not sure I believe it for I did not see no peep of the thing the entire day. Yes, you are reading this right. Today was a complete day of darkness. The reason was to be unveiled later during the so-called day.
A new power has risen. A fiery, flaming, and very dangerous one to be exact. Gothmog has returned from what was thought to be his grave, using the alias Turin. But what’s in a name? He is back, as scary and malicious as ever. I am not ashamed to write that I am actually quite afraid of him. Who wouldn’t be? Sure he is hot and the irresistible urge to toast a hoppit foot on him keeps creeping into my subconscious, but he is back and male – after all, we all know that males are to be feared for such a clumsy species and cause many a folk to be killed before their time.
A look in at the Blood Fields shows the army of Mordor is amassing again. Is a battle not far off? This makes me think that maybe I should just go back to my rock, it’s safe there, dusty but safe. Over the far side of the field, beating the life out of each other, Nihtferhðwyn and Narguzîr are seemingly unaware of anyone else occupying the field as they take out their every frustration on each other. It takes only a short time for me to realize that standing around in a place such as that is not a good idea. How many times must I tell that ugly orc that I really did not want to fight him. I quite like having my head attached to my body, thank you.
Later that day, well at least I think it was still day, I dropped in at the Breeding Center to view the spawn of the underworld that that are being bred each day. An interesting lineup of creatures is on display there. It got me thinking that perhaps I need a bat, or something that flies so that I can still send letters, but not actually leave the confines beneath my crumbling rock. Yes, I am certainly liking that idea more and more.
This is me signing off on another successful expedition – successful for I did not die in the process – I’ll be sure to write down my adventures on my next annual trip to the Heart of Mordor.
Getting
in between the hair growth
by Stella Inspect-a lot
When I was giving the rather beige task of reporting on the Shire, my initial thought was to pay someone to do it for me. A sort of sub-tasking, if you would like to call it, when I realized that I wouldn’t be able to find someone to do this for me for an adequate price. I had to dare the small village life of the Shire and went forth into the Hobbitness.
A grown woman walking around a bunch of midgets never does much for ones “comfort” levels, and thus I always felt as though I was being stared at – something I was not too keen on. I don’t mind being stared at, if it’s a hunk of meat like Aragorn, King of Gondor, but little people have never been my favourite. Promoting a Kingdom I have never been partial to I found quite daunting, but as I spent the day there I found promoting it wouldn’t be as difficult as I once expected. It has a lot to promote itself to the outside world.
Shire Players XXVIII: A Mid Summer Night’s Dream was hosting one of my favourite stories of all times and they have some wonderful actors under their wings. I did think that it was difficult for them to truly portray the characters in the story considering their height did shorten their ability to play to the full expectations of the human characters. However I have no doubt that this is a brilliant portrayal of the play and would recommend this to anyone.
Before I visited the Shire I had always presumed that Hobbits didn’t have much to laugh about. I don’t know about you but to me they are a rather serious race - perhaps this comes from years of avoiding them. An epidemic of laughing, giggling and hysterical behavior has overtaken a small population of the Shire. I would be very much amused if they would be able to do all three actions at the same time but just seeing these hobbits rolling on the ground is amusement enough. You know what they say – laughing is contagious.
Something that many might not know about is the Shire Survivor currently being run. Contestants need to outwit, outplay and outlast the rest of the entrants. This makes for a riveting show which can be watched from one of the many outlets in the Shire. News about these stars in the making is constantly being given to the inhabitants of the Shire, and I am sure that if you ask nicely enough you might even get to see your favourite contestant. I know who mine is, now, who is yours?
As I decided to end off my rather entertaining and eye-opening tour of the Shire, I couldn’t help but notice a quite fitting group of hobbits – Mushie Addicts. I don’t think that many would have believed it but I swear by the ink on this parchment that a group of hobbits where actually starting to admit their addiction to mushrooms. Why they would be addicted to a fungus is beyond my comprehension but as one of the kind hobbits told me (she would like to remain anonymous), “There is a saying, there can be too much of a good thing. Well mushrooms are a good thing but hobbits at Hobbits Anonymous are just admitting to it being too addictive. I lost my gardening tools and nearly even my house to this addiction. We’re just trying to deal with it.”
As I tried to keep a straight face as her brown-tinted eyes looked up at me with shame and worry I couldn’t help but feel a little guilty. While this might seem unimportant to us, in all fairness, it is important to them. As my tour finished off, I scuttled happily out of the Shire. While I don’t dislike it anymore I wouldn’t want to stay too long in the miniature Kingdom. However I apply to all of you adventures and explorers to go and visit Hobbition. You never know, you might spot the infamous Sam Gamgee. I didn’t but I’ll be back, and maybe I’ll be lucky next time.
The
Poetry Corner: Warm, Fuzzy, and Up n’ At ’Em..
by Scea
What do you picture when you think of the Poetry Corner? Is it homey? Is it cheerful? Or is it just some place you’ve never been because poetry isn’t your thing? We’ve asked a few folks for their thoughts on this oh-so-important nook of the Plaza and here is what they had to say:
It’s a fun place, filled with many opportunities to make friends, write, and review. The people there are encouraging, the contests fun, and the rewards great. Not only in the tribute you might get, but in the progress you make with your writing skill from constructive comments and new poetry forms used in contests to challenge those who participate. All in all, the poetry corner is a great place that I love going to, there are many very inventive people whose poetry I just adore reading and reviewing, and many chances to learn, so many that I can’t even begin to name them all. -Tarin, Mordor, Current Thread: Angel of Light, Angel of Darkness
Some people consider the PC as a low priority forum on the plaza, but I truly believe that it is one of the best areas to find inspiration for your muse and at the same time enjoy yourself. We have so many talented poets in the PC, that I spend hours just reading through the poems. The Plaza has created an environment where we can challenge our imagination and expand our creativity. Before I came on the Plaza poetry was the last thing on my mind. I didn’t write poetry, though I did read it. Through the Plaza I started writing poetry. Thats why I love the PC. - Star Flower, Fangorn, Current Thread: Whisper of a Thrill
I love it, I think it’s a great place to share your poems and get your work out there without it being terrifying. The people there are all talented and beyond sweet. The environment is great to improve yourself, the folks will be honest about your poetry but still be kind. The Poetry Corner is a great place to improve your writing and start to share your poems.- Melia, Isengard, Current Thread: Vulnerable- Mithy’s Ninth
Those are just a few of the feelings towards the Poetry Corner. So for those who work hard there, at reviews, writing, contests, and the ever important moderating, know that yours is a job well done and we all appreciate your efforts.
And what about the "reviews, writing, and contests"? With summer came the birth of many ideas. Several new poetry contests have risen in popularity and are enjoying their moments in the spotlight. These include the Poetry Contest of Up and Down, dedicated to the acrostic, and Inspiration and Intuition, which uses a line from a famous or not so famous poem to inspire further writings. The old n’ goldies are still moving well, perhaps a bit affected by the influx of new contests, but they didn’t become what they are from lack of interest.
A recent addition thanks to the Poetry Maiar is CRIFT’s Crafty Cookies, a thread which spotlights reviews and poems that have caught the passing eye of the one of the Maiar. One notable poem that made it into the thread was Leinwe Kalthwin’s Angels Never Quarrel.
Well flowers don’t
blossom when trampled,
And that blessed sunshine doesn’t gather then,
Cause it’s just the moon that finds the flowers crumpled
So now tempered winds
come here these days
Wishing away all our heated words,
Saying, "We’ll take away your destructive ways.
Cause Angels never
quarrel this way
And Songs in heaven won’t come here,
Not during this constant fray."
Well truth is hard
to turn from when it showers
But I knew there was sunlight somewhere,
And I said, "I saw life in those flowers."
And of course, everyone -or almost everyone anyway- knows about the fresh face belonging to Caewyn that has only recently been brightening up the Corner with her lilies and sweet self. Best of luck to you, Cae!
Cuz’ only the cool stuff sticks
by Star Flower
When I saw the opening for writing an article for the Out of Middle-earth (OoME) forum, my first instinct was to pass it up, but since I am quite a regular in the OoME I figured to myself – why not? Sure a majority of the threads that are opened there are the same-boring old thing but then again there are a few interesting threads or “happenings” as I like to call them that stick to one’s mind. With this in mind I have made it my duty to inform all of you non-OoME(ers) what happens in this forum.
Possibly the first thing that comes to mind is the Harry Potter influx of threads in this forum. As I went through each page looking for somewhere to post whilst taking a rest from the exhausting world of role-playing, I must have seen at least twenty various Harry Potter threads which discuss the book in detail or threads which promote blatant lies about the various characters. Fun, right? I guess one can only consider it fun if one has read all of the books and if one was a big enough Harry Potter fan – fortunately, yours truly is. While the whole excitement of the book has died down one can still find a few threads still talking about what will happen in the Seventh book.
Continuing with non-plaza related threads as I was scrolling through the pages there was a thread that caught my attention immediately. QP: The Quantum Physics Group ll is a thread that discusses Quantum Physics, Wormholes, Zero Point Energy (ZPE), Physics, Astrophysics and other interesting stuff like that. I don’t know about you, but personally I was a bit shocked to see this thread there. It just goes to show what a variety of people we have on the plaza – and you know what they say, variety is the spice of life. They are currently discussing … actually, I wouldn’t be able to tell you what they are discussing because I got bored after I read the first sentence in the opening post. BUT this does not mean you shouldn’t stop by and take part. If this interests you – go and chat, they are having wide discussions about QP type of things.
Right, let’s start discussing threads that affect the plaza or discuss plaza people. One of the happiest events that I have heard of in a quite a long time is the little peanut our Lord of the Mark is carrying. Feawen, the ex-weaver admin, is going to be a mother. When she told me I couldn’t have been more happy and elated, children are such a precious part of our life and if you would like to go and give our Lord of the Mark a belated congrat’s on her pregnancy the thread can be found here: Fëa’s gonna be a mommy.... There is even a little sonar picture of “Peanut” as Feawen so warmly likes to call it since the sex of the baby is yet unknown. I guarantee this picture will get an awww out of anyone.
The Plaza Top Model Competition is currently on its second round – Toga’s. Twelve plaza members were chosen to take part in this real-life picture beauty competition and each round one of them is voted off by the general plaza public. The runner of the competition, the lime-green junkie Aeo is always bumping this thread along so if you like make a stop and see some of the Plaza’s prettiest people strut their stuff. Even Sere, once known as Hot-lips is taking part and giving Valinor some exposure by taking part in the competition. She is certainly making a wonderful mark in the competition; we wonder how far she will go. However I have to add that the hunks of the competition Aduchil and Erlend are hot favorites… if you wonder why, take a peek in the thread which can be found here: The Plaza’s Next Top Model -:- Round Two
We all know that in the Out of Middle Earth forum we will find all sorts of groups being formed, one of the latest ones is N.E.W.B.I.E. Wondering what that might stand for? Wonder no more, it stands for NEWBIE EATING WINGED BALROG INVALIDATORS EXTRAORDINAIRE. The fancy name basically stands for Elenhir’s cronies as they like to call themselves. They currently have eleven members and are looking for new members all the time. Of course in order to join this super-exclusive group you need to abide by all of their rule and regulations. The most important being that you have to admit that Balrogs do not have wings and if you don’t admit this, it might be punishable with a hit from one of their exclusive lore books that members get upon entry of the club.
These are a few of the threads that have been opened throughout the last two months but for me the saddest few have been opened recently. Niht, used to be known as Twin Demon, suddenly left the plaza, followed by Azrubel and then by Elfhild. You can go and say goodbye to Elfhild at the following thread “I’m Gone” and go and say goodbye to Niht at the following thread “I’m Done”. I can imagine this is a huge blow to Mordor as these are some of their most hard-working minions but I am glad to report that in spite of all of this leaving, there are a lot of people staying. Vin, one of our reporters for the Middle-earth Messenger, has opened a thread “I’m staying”.
It’s reassuring to know that a lot of people still believe in the dream we have all worked so hard to build! And that’s all for this edition of the Middle-earth Messenger, until next month – enjoy a few moments in the OoME forum, you never know where you can find a laugh.
