Parth Canthui ~ Volume V
Pennas Nórui ~ June Issue

Note: The following magic symbol returns you to the top of the scroll: 

Elenaro Fireblade walked down a flowered path on the way to a new guild.  He had heard that there were openings for ambitious, and creative elves here.  He stopped in front of a magnificent building, within the Valley's walls towering over the main building.  Elenaro gazed at the building in front of him, and admired the pillars the seemed to reach up in spirals.  He thought it fitting for the Guild he was about to join.  He pushed open the doors and stepped inside.

The first thing he saw upon entering the Imladris Architect Guild were several rows of desks, and at the head of the room, one large desk with a lone ellon in the room.  The main hall was brightly lit, to provide light for all potential designers.  He walked to the elleth at the desk, and filled out his application.  The ellon greeted him saying that he was the Guild's master, and his name was Aikanar.  Elenaro choose a desk somewhere near the middle front of the guild, and started designing a building.

Joining the Guild was just that simple.  As Elenaro was working on his draft, elves started to trickle in slowly. One by one, they chose desks wherever they felt comfortable and started drawing up designs.  Elenaro thought this a productive use of manpower.  On the board on the wall it listed what professions one could choose.  So far all who had joined wanted to be designers, but there were openings for builders as well, and without builders, these designs wouldn't work.  

So far only one commission has been received.  Koranti filled out his requirements, and now the Guild is designing a formal garden for him.  There are designers aplenty, but builders are still needed. All those interested in joining, please walk up the flowered path, and talk to Master Aikanar of the Imladris Architects Guild.

~ Elenaro Fireblade

 

Greetings mellyn nin; come join us for awhile and enjoy an evening with those who wish to share the words that float up into the night skies with song! During the most recent thread we visited the halls of Rainbow's End: Shining Cascades. We had a very relaxed atmosphere with a roaring fire, good friends, and even a fine drink or two to be found for parched throats. This thread saw many a varied patron stop in to share a bit of the music floating through their minds, even visitors from Mordor itself!

The atmosphere of the Bard and Writer's Guild is not as formal as some would believe, for all who wish to share their works with those gathered therein are welcomed. New and old are encouraged to come and play in the guild halls; visitors need not share songs or tales of lore if they don't feel like it though all appreciate hearing the works of others.

So come mellyn - and join us in the Guild halls for a bit of rest from the world that wearies, and rejuvenate while listening to the songs of the Bards now back in the Hall of Writings: The Sun Triumphant

~ Nurbor

 

JR Drill Team

So what is Drill?
And what is Junior Drill?
Both good questions and both I shall address.
Drill is basically a test of Lore knowledge and Juniors as I’m sure you’re aware simply have less books from which to find quotes.

I digress - you want to hear about the adventures of the Imladris Junior Drill Team and I feel great honour in being the one to share our triumphs and losses. It all began last year when Junior Drill was born, we started small, so small in fact we were fortunate to host our own team with only three of us. Feowen and Tanequil were Co-Captains and I made up the third. Would that spell our doom? Far from it - it fuelled us with determination and we went forth to face Mordor in our first match which was fought tooth and nail. It eventually ended as a draw after a good many of appeals. Who said it doesn’t pay to object? After that match our team grew, Finrod joined us and we scoured the books together to compile quotes and answers, we never tired. Come the play-off stage that first result against Mordor proved to be vital and we went on to the playoffs and came out as the Champions of the First Season of Junior Drill.

Now came our second season, and it will go down in Imladris history as a heart breaker. By now the team is large, we were fourteen strong. Tan unfortunately was away so Finrod was made Co-Caption alongside myself. The entire season we made little error and went through to the play-off stage undefeated, and that perhaps was our undoing. Perhaps we were a little too full of our own self importance? We had put ourselves forwards to be knocked down and we were. We fell as surely as Barad-Dûr, but unlike the Dark Tower we shall rise again and we shall conquer!

And they say that Junior Drill is the less competitive kingdom sibling! To that statement I cannot agree; we are a driven Team and the Third Season shall see an even stronger team with new members. So watch out, Imladris shall be back raring to avenge our defeat!

No article is complete without the names of those that made it possible, so without further ado let me present to you the team:
Tanequil, Gildor Inglorian, Hithleen, Yávien, Delehathol, Canis, Nimloth, Obhakhar, then we gained three more renowned Junior Drillers Maglor Seregon, Nurbor and last but definitely not least Ealena.
And as the Season ended for us Finrod and myself (Ilúvefailisse) share the Co- Captaincy of a mighty Team of Junior Drill.

And my sincerest thanks to them all.

There is another chapter to be written soon, one of great importance but my friends that shall be told in good time, but now is not that time.

~ Ilúvefailisse

 

Minestor Ancalima is treating Falswen for headaches and some other wounds. From what I have heard from one of the passing taidors, our patient is healing well now and soon Falswen will be released to go to the gardens and the recovery room. Nestor Idhwen is busy treating Koranti, who has brought in unconscious. His wounds are taken care of. His mental condition is still uncertain, as right now he is still unconscious. I hope soon to receive the message that he has woken up and is all right.

After a month our dear Tanestor Tinessael is back. While walking in the gardens she found an old patient. She has taken Legolas to the recovery room and helps him with the last of an old wound. Wilara, our receptionist, keeps track of the patients and the healers. The other nestors and aphadors are busy in the gardens, helping water the plants. Unfortunately it has not rained for a few days and some herbs can’t stay too long without water.

In the aphador class a couple of eager students are doing well in class now under guidance of Fuin Elda. Their first serious case was helping Isiliel get glass out of her hand and stitching it. Their second serious case is a little 9 year old girl, Nienne, who was playing outside and fell while trying to catch a ball; she broke her left arm near her elbow. When Nienne is treated, the class will move slowly to finishing a test. I wish all candidates good luck in advance!

We are always looking for new taidhrim. If you want to take your first steps into healing, go over to the office and ask for a test. Minestor Ancalima or Tanestor Tinessael are there to help you with instructions.

~ Lady Aikári

 

Poetry Team report

I am fairly new to the plaza and to the Imladris Poetry Team, but the Second Season, Round 7 match 2.  It has been a fast paced and exhilarating first to competitions for myself.  The First match of round 6 for Team Imladris was fortunately fixed as a home set, and We came in second captained by Feowen and Turgonian.  The main poets were Taniquetil and Elenaro (myself). The captains' critique were helpful to say the least, and the competition was seriously good.  Over all it has been a fun beginning.

The Poetry Team has had one major setback this season as far as I can tell, and that is that dear Feowen has unfortunately been required to leave us. We hope it is temporary, and wish her the best of luck in her endeavours, I am sure.  Also Taniquetil has put together some truly amazing poems this season and delivered them perfectly. Captained by Turgonian, we are headed into Round 7 going strong.

I would like to thank the Imladris Poetry Team for welcoming me into their group with open arms.  Even more they are kind enough to give a newfound elf a starting place on the teams.  It has been much fun and continues to be so. 

In this last round we faced some great competition and came in last.  Taniquetil, Janowyn, Eria, and Thali, all did what we could, but didn't finish with the winners.  Minas Tirith and Mordor tied on a job well done.  Unfortunately Turgonian was not able to captain us this round, but we had Taniquetil with her ZaniLaRhyme to help us through.

Congratulations Team Imladris on another match completed.

~ Elenaro Fireblade

 

After the rather disastrous loss against Isengard, the Cheetahs of Imladris pulled themselves together and even in the frightening land of darkness, Mordor where it is said that danger lurks behind every corner and the stink (from the minions) is unbearable, managed a team victory, with our racer Amrothil with Makouli second after Ghalamir with Baldrick.

Alas! After that, our team clearly partied too much and did not turn enough attention to training and strict regime. In short they all let themselves loose and the negative results did not wait too long to appear. The next race, against Riddermark was lost, but the good news is that Imladris at least got an individual victory by Falswen with Marhil, who managed to move 24 spaces!

Repeating the cycle, after letting the opponents win, the cheetahs focused again and won against the skunks of Minas-Tirith, with twice as many spaces as them. Our racer, Nenime with Korri after a strenuous fight, shared the individual victory with Gondorian Nimloth with Denis, both managing to pass amazing 22 spaces.

This time the racers restrained themselves and kept focused on their goals, and the also the next race, against Shire and their coney’s, managed a win. Although it was very close with Imladris having 112 spaces and Shire 114 spaces. The points gave the victory to us. However the individual win went to the hobbit Menolly with her coney Apple.

At the moment the race against the Khazad-Dum is coming to an end, and let’s hope it would be a good one! Keep your fingers crossed and come to root for your favorite team, when we race against Lorien right here on our own stadium!

In the end I want to thank my fellow racers and the captains for doing an amazing job and add that overall this has been a wonderful season, with all rosters filling up long before the start of the races.

~ Tinessael

 

 

 

Kingdom Events

SCRs of the month!

There was the sound of bells pealing with joy through the silent morning of the valley. It sounded through, disturbed the rests of some, but no one seemed to mind. The bells were sounded in times of danger and celebration, but the Elves of Rivendell all knew that this peal resonated with joy and peace that could only be tied to that of the honour of some of their very own Elven friends.

"Friends," Elrond says, "Today it is time to honor three Elves of our fair home, all of whom have long served with dedication in quiet or very public ways." Eluglin has been so active and enthusiastic around the Valley but in particular in the Host and in the RP Training threads was honoured in the presence of our handsome twin Elrohir. Meanwhile, Turgonian who has been shining away like a beacon of creativity for a long time as Captain of the Imladris Poetry Team was chosen to look after our gracious Lord Erestor.

Indeed, as the Lords would say, we should praise them with great praise. Eglerio hym!

~ Adapted from an original article by Keleos Nenharma

RPG Summary - New Era

Ever wonder what became of Imladris with the passing of Elrond into the west? Well, you weren't alone. This idea was creatively explored by a brave group of players. The RPG moved from the peaceful life of Imladris through a whirlwind of plot twists and canon depth. With the guidance of (then Host Commander) Anarie the residents of the valley began to prepare for a rumored dark tide lurking in the mountains.

A battle ensued and ended with a brilliant bit of memory and song at the end. Imladris shall stand on beneath the guidance of the Twins into the Fourth Age while they wage their silent quest of vengence against the yrch left in the Misty Mountains.

~ Nurbor

The History of the Histories

The kingdom Histories are something that Rivendell has tucked away among the Kingdome Pages.  They span from February 2002 to roughly now, as they get updated monthly or bi monthly as depends on the time the historian has.  Though regardless of how much time they have each month is done as its own separate entity.

In the beginning the histories were rather comical, documenting a time in Rivendell when fun rather than canon was the first thing on the minds of the Ruler(s) and entries included the invention of floating keyholes, and the introduction of badgers to the Plaza and the creation of ELP.  Of course not all is fun and games in the first entries.  Documentation of new rulers stepping up, high ranking members, by standards of Kingdom esteem, quitting their positions and leaving for other Kingdoms.

The History has been recorded by many elves, Pip, Mori, Arlo, Ally, Lae, Gall, Eithil, Arwil, Firerose, and Fuin Elda.  With this progression of Historians, time and Rulers, the Histories themselves have changed from their first carefree entries to serious notations of all important happening in the Kingdom that the current Historian can find.  Regardless of this metamorphosis the Kingdom Histories remain a vital link to days gone by whether they were yesterday or days long past.

The Kingdom Histories can be found here - http://www.lotrplaza.com/elves/history/default.asp

~ Fuin Elda

 

Kingdom Survey

With the Summer coming into view, the time is there to reflect on things so Lord Elrond and Lord Glorfindel have called upon the inhabitants of Imladris and their guests to help improve the kingdom. A survey has been created as a prelude to an open discussion, to see how you feel about the ruling and life in Imladris.

Kind regards,
Loriwaynen and Rilómë

You can fill out the survey here: http://www.lotrplaza.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=219551

 

IK Poetry Report (Season 2 Round 5)

Never let it be said poets can't continue to grow, bringing out a certain beauty in words. That would be an understatement for this round we just passed through. With both of us on the Council watching these teams through each round, I have seen some of the most inspiring and intriguing poetry ever presented before on this site or for that matter, anywhere. Much to the likes of Robert Frost, Edgar Allen Poe. Surreal. The matches are flowing like a well-tuned fiddle, or flute. Fluidity does make the music all the more liked, as in bringing out the best in each one of us. As for what else is happening around the plaza to do with IK Poetry, those Quick Fire Matches are also doing rather well. Which is a great pastime to give people a bit of a break from all lore-based poems. Some have been hilarious to be honest. Without further ado, lets get into those matches shall we?

For the theme this time and round, we chose Merry and Pippin. Many different ways of writing about these two Hobbits were seen, which really showed the versatility of each team. For our forms, they were as shown below.

Constanza

The Constanza, created by Connie Marcum Wong, consists of five or more 3-line stanzas. Each line has a set meter of eight syllables. The first lines of all the stanzas can be read successively as an independent poem, with the rest of the poem weaved in to express a deeper meaning. The first lines convey a theme written in monorhyme, while the second and third lines of each stanza rhyme together.

Rhyme scheme: a/b/b, a/c/c, a/d/d, a/e/e, a/f/f.........etc.

CinqTroisDecaLa Rhyme

The CinqTroisDecaLa Rhyme, a form created by Laura Lamarca, consisting of one 10-lined stanza. The rhyme scheme for this form is AABBCCCABC and a syllable count of each line is 15.

With all the teams having taken their quills out, parchments, they soon were off and writing, muses flowing as smooth as time itself. Some teams wrote eloquently, some more straight to the point and some so diverse, it was tough to score as well as chose winners for the judges as you will soon see why. Though a part of the Riddermark Team, as its Captain, I was so delighted to see Rohan had taken second place. Wonderful! Here are the results.

Match 1 consisting of Khazad-dum, Lothlorien, Fangorn, The Shire and Mordor, here is the final results for that match...

Winners by Scores:

Khazad-dûm	120.5
Mordor	120
Fangorn	118
The Shire	116.5
Lothlorien	107.5

For Match 2 consisting of Minas Tirith, Riddermark, Isengard and Imladris, here are the scores for those teams.

Winners by Scores:

Minas Tirith	121
Riddermark	111.5
Imladris	109
Isengard	105

With Round 6 already finalised, I can't wait to bring the news to you how well Rohan did, but that....as we say, is for the next time. ^_^ Please though, some personal words - wouldn't it be great to show your support to those team members in that match and show how proud and happy you are they are doing so well. Until we meet again, this is Goldmoon Dunami saying have a great day!

~ Goldmoon Dunami

 

Interview with Laivindil

It doesn’t happen often that a great warrior of old times returns amongst us. I had the honour of talking with Laivindil Phairémo, Othrim High Commander of Honour and kinsman of the great generals of old. After some time of absence he returned to our beloved kingdom.

Eluglin : Can you tell something about yourself?
Laivindil : My history is a long one, but I will not bother you with the details of my life. Suffice it to say that I have walked among elves and men for a long time, since I was first born in a little village not far from Alqualondë. As I was but an infant at the time of the exile of my people, I remember hardly anything from that time. Since then I have travelled far and wide, serving lords and houseless wanderers alike. The name Phairémo I have taken in love of my wife Aurëthil and in honour to the father of her children.

Elu : I understand you have made a comeback in the host?
Laiv : While Imladris is the one place I most call home, I am a wanderer at heart. My wife Aurëthil and I have two homes, one by the seas in Forlindon and one under the trees of Mirkwood. We never dwell long in either of those places, but both are home. Yet the peace of a retired life suited me little. True, in Mirkwood there is evil to keep at bay also, but I missed the host greatly. Aurëthil now stays in our home in Mirkwood, for her heart lies there, but she has also given her love to me and sent me on the path my heart ached to travel. In the end I stepped upon the road with no destination in mind and my steps brought me back here.

Elu : How was it to see familiar faces again, or not to see familiar faces anymore?
Laiv : It saddens me greatly that there are so few of those I called friends who have remained. It filled me with a sense of irony that great warriors I personally helped train have now left the Host and Imladris altogether, retiring from their posts.
It lifts my heart, however, to find that many of our kind still dwell in Imladris and do their best to fill the places of those that left us. In them I see courage and an eagerness to prove themselves that will be much needed in the days to come.

Elu : Is there a difference in mentality between the soldiers now and back then?
Laiv : I see little difference there. While there are of course different soldiers in the Host, I find that no matter when you look, you will find soldiers there that are courageous, skilled and disciplined. They share a love of life and all things good that is so important for a soldier. Only one who loves life is ready to give his or her life in order to save that of others.

Elu : What do you like about the present host and what do you miss?
Laiv : I like the present Host in that it is exactly what this age needs. We no longer have the great numbers as the Lords of old and we all live our lives as we please. Yet when our home, or even the homes of innocents not of our kind, are in peril, we leave home and family behind to fight together. What I really miss are of course the people that have given their lives for us to live. As far as the organisation of the Host in concerned, I really miss my old station in the Grey Havens. For a while I lived there, serving on and later commanding one of the last ships of war that were stationed there to keep the coasts safe so that our people could always sail West in safety.

Elu : Do you think/hope that the Host will eventually get back tits former level?
Laiv : With ever more of our kin being drawn back to the Undying Lands and others being slain in battle, I fear we will never again reach the numbers we once had. There is no lessening in valour though, and in that we are equal to the old Host and even to the great hosts of old.

Elu : And what about the organisation from back then? Do you think that there will be different divisions once more?
Laiv : When our numbers grow again, I am confident that there will be more than one division. In what way those divisions will be different, I do not know. Perhaps we will once again have a home guard and a division that travels the lands further away, perhaps we will have a division of swordfighters and one of archers, or maybe we will divide the soldiers again according to their skill in horsemanship or lack thereof. That is for the future to reveal. With our current numbers, it has been a good decision to fight as one group.

Elu : Any last words for the readers?
Laiv : Always follow your own heart and fear not to make new friends, for only if you live with an open heart will you truly live.

~ Eluglin

 

Newbie Perspective

Elenaro rode his steed over the ford on the River Bruinen, and was immediately assaulted by the fragrance of flowers, the sound of song and merriment in abundance.  He rode into the heart of Imladris, and straight to the Last Homely House.  He found the stables with ease, and stabled his horse.  Then he went wandering around, meeting numerous elves in the Gardens, which were filled with the rarest and most beautiful of life capable of growing in Middle Earth.

Elenaro wandered around till he heard the sound of training.  He followed the noise and then saw the Elves of Imladris training with their fellows in arms.  He joined immediately and then went on an escapade in the mountains.   The Host of Imladris was highly accommodating to a newborn elf, who merely wanted to learn, and belong.  The adventures in the mountain passes has taught this newborn elf, the true value of companionship, and loyalty.

After his first stint with the army Elenaro decided to wander elsewhere in Rivendell, which is how he stumbled upon the Guilds of Imladris.  He was welcomed with open arms to the Lore Team, Poetry Team, and the Architects Guild of Imladris.  

The Architects Guild is just now restarting and is an amazingly peaceful place, where all are accepted, and capable of learning.  The Lore Team has a nifty little test you must pass in order to actually become a part of it, and the Poetry Team is amazing.  Elenaro has competed now twice with his fellow poets, and the have come in 2cnd once, and in this new match they are awaiting a verdict from the judges.  

All in all, the Valley has been very accommodating to him.  He has been welcomed with open arms, and is enjoying himself immensely in Imladris.  With one final notice: The Valley is a great place to relax, or if you are an adventurous sort, an amazing place to go and participate in full time activities.  There is so much to do, and most of it is all-inclusive.  I, Elenaro cannot possibly think of a place that I am more at home, than the Valley of Imladris.

~ Elenaro Fireblade

 

Another Tolkien Day Job

So, my fellow Plazaite, one job is not good enough, eh? Nope. It’s not that easy to satisfy us, you cry. Very well, on to another Day Job of Tolkien’s it shall be then. I’m surprised the Master actually has time to do so much, what with his psychic abilities and all. (Editor’s note: In an earlier article for another publication, the author conclusively established that Tolkien was in fact psychic, having predicted the Plaza’s future existence sixty years before it became fact) I mean, it’s pretty obvious that Tolkien wrote the Lord of the Rings, the Hobbit, and a few other books. What is also known is that basic information was laid down, enough for the Unfinished Tales and History of Middle Earth series. And most also know that there exists the Letters. If by now, you still have no idea what in Arda I am talking about, (and what in Arda is what in Arda?), then you better listen carefully, or rather, read carefully now. But that’s another story for another time, aye? Oh yes, I think there will be another time. But now, let’s move on with the actual text, and not too much of this rambling, like I tend to do. I’m here, to prove to you, that not only was he a psychic, he was a biologist.

Yup, one of those people who have the uncanny knowledge of where your body parts are, or something like that. I mean, jeez, you have to be quite good to tell the difference between your trachea and your œsophagus , right? Or you’d be choking. But I digress again. The Master was a biologist! I’m pretty sure of that, and what’s more, I’m going to prove it to you. So all you sceptics out there, which is probably like everyone reading this - listen up!

Where better to begin with than the first chapter and the first page of his first publication, The Hobbit, Chapter 1, An Unexpected Party? And here goes. Your digestive system, Tolkien Style! Let us begin our eerily squeamish journey through the body with a visit to the digestive system of Bag End!

It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle.

This be your mouth. A door. That’s how you enter the body, if you’re food. And by the way, for your kind information, we are food for this part of the journey, so sit back, relax and digest. Yep. Digest. (Editor’s note: Ewwww!)

The door opened on to a tube-shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats - the hobbit was fond of visitors.

This be your stomach, where you digest. We’ll be moving along in about five minutes, so everyone, hop off the bus and take your pictures! This place is really, fond of visitors! So hang in there for a while! I, your tour guide, will be moving on in just a short while!

The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill - The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it - and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another.

This be your intestines. And the round doors, where you absorb the lovely nutrients from your food, of course! Shall we take a detour? Votes? Alright! That’s a yes then. Come on, ladies and gentlemen! This way to your blood vessels. Follow the trail of food!

No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining-rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left-hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep-set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river.

And this be a nice description of the blood vessels which help your intestines work! Look closely! Maybe we’ll be taking a trip up and into your heart soon! I think we’re on the way. And yes! We’re there! Still in The Hobbit, but now at Chapter Four, Over Hill and Under Hill.

At that he woke up with a horrible start, and found that part of his dream was true. A crack had opened at the back of the cave, and was already a wide passage. He was just in time to see the last of the ponies' tails disappearing into it. Of course he gave a very loud yell, as loud a yell as a hobbit can give, which is surprising for their size.

Hang on, everyone! Here we go! Through the valves of the veins and into the heart! Look around you, everything just gets a little more pressurising (darker), in the literal sense! And hear that yell? That was the ‘lub’ in the ‘lub-dub’ of the beating of the heart!

Out jumped the goblins, big goblins, great ugly-looking goblins, lots of goblins, before you could say rocks and blocks. There were six to each dwarf, at least, and two even for Bilbo; and they were all grabbed and carried through the crack, before you could say tinder and flint. But not Gandalf. Bilbo's yell had done that much good. It had wakened him up wide in a splintered second, and when goblins came to grab him, there was a terrible flash like lightning in the cave, a smell like gunpowder, and several of them fell dead.

Ooh! And look what we’ve got! We’re now in the heart, sucked in by the change in pressure! I told you Master Tolkien knew his stuff. And what’s that? A blockage? Or was that… cholesterol build up? Oh yes. That’s why not all of it is in the heart. Someone is still outside!

The crack closed with a snap, and Bilbo and the dwarves were on the wrong side of it! Where was Gandalf? Of that neither they nor the goblins had any idea, and the goblins did not wait to find out. It was deep, deep, dark, such as only goblins that have taken to living in the heart of the mountains can see through.

The plot thickens, my friends and fellow travellers. We are now shut in the heart. Feel that pressure? That’s right? We’re going to be out of here in a while! A very short while, so all of you, hold on tight! It’s going to be a rough ride! Who knows where we’ll end up?

The passages there were crossed and tangled in all directions, but the goblins knew their way, as well as you do to the nearest post-office; and the way went down and down, and it was most horribly stuffy. The goblins were very rough, and pinched unmercifully, and chuckled and laughed in their horrible stony voices; and Bilbo was more unhappy even than when the troll had picked him up by his toes. He wished again and again for his nice bright hobbit-hole. Not for the last time.

What? We’re… oh sorry. We’re just taken a detour to the lungs, it seems! Through the many twisting and turning, tight and uncomfortable capillaries within the lungs. Ooh. That was bad. I think I preferred the digestive system, didn’t you? But maybe there’ll be a way to get out from here?

Now there came a glimmer of a red light before them.

Yup! Up up and away! See you another time! Don’t forget to sign up with Baggins Tours the next time you feel an urge to explore the human body!

There now, is that enough proof? I should like to think so. I hoped you enjoyed this piece.

Navaer!

~ Tanequil Silverleaf

 

 

Things are looking up in the Golden Woods! There has been plenty of activity hereabouts and the number of visitors seen amongst the elves is very pleasing. New threads have opened up as truths behind the faces of certain elves are revealed, and songs of praise are being sung to Lord Celeborn and Lady Galadriel.

And in the midst of all this was a raid by the minions of Mordor who dared to pass the borders of Lothlorien. One wonders how they managed to get past the enchanment set about the Woods, and one wonders what purpose was there behind that attack. They came upon the Galadhrim and their visitors on the Lawn quite unexpectedly one misty morning. The screams and sounds of dying were quite devastating to a land which has seen nothing of this nature since the Balrog. It was with luck that a few marchwardens of the Guard were present on the Lawn and were able to rally together forces and launch a defensive. They managed to send the minions back from where they came from. There were speculations that the attack was prompted by sheer sadistic desire for elven blood. The Lawn has been opened now, after a few days to heal its wounds from the unlooked for attack, and it celebrates the victory of the elves over the minions and mourns those lost in that meaningless battle.

And speaking of 'meaningless battles' yet another theft has occured in Lorien! What is Middle-earth coming to when elves cannot keep from taking things that are simply not their own!! No one is sure as yet as to what as gone amissing, only that something is missing. The call for hunters has brought out twenty-four brave and witty souls to take on the challenge of finding the thief who seems to have headed toward Rohan. One hopes that this search will bring about fruitful results.

So, until the next time Lorien brings to you it's golden news...Navaer!

~ Shadowheart

Minas Tirith Report

Hail Eldar of Imladris; news comes of the White Tower of Minas Tirith. A bustle of activity has swept through the streets of the Tower of Watch, ranging from a pub to celebrate a birthday in silly fashion to the revamping of the Tower Guard. Also with this past month has come the revival of Minas Tirith's White Tree Registry, one of the other news chronicles of the Plaza.

Along with the reinstatement of the Tower Guard there have been some other changes in the Minas Tirith Ranger Corp and their training procedures. With all this military might being amassed one might wonder what war it is they prepare for, but it should be remembered that long has the Tower of Watch stood to stop the hands of foes and so shall it continue to stand.

With this bustling activity there have also been many people being put through the doors of the Dungeons for crimes against the Crown and its people. With all this on the rise, it makes one wonder what else could possibly be happening. Rumor has it that there may be a new endeavour for those of the merchant class to embark upon, travelling the trade routes to Pelargir and Osgiliath .The Crown says nothing of it thus far to confirm the safe passage south. With enough of the citizens of Minas Tirith going about their busy days, it means there's just one more thing on the horizon beyond the markets for trade.

Come rest awhile in one of the pubs, and enjoy the life of a citizen of Gondor!

~ Nurbor

 

 

Rohan Report

 

Suilad mellyn nín, Westu hal! It gives me great pleasure to bring you news from the land of the Horse Lords once again, for the oncoming summer. Many wonderful things are occurring this time of year, and to name some would be The Summer Festival HQ, now taking thoughts and ideas on some of the fun things that might be going on. Come in and give some thought on perhaps one of those or give us one of your own. There seems to be rafting, dancing, volleyball, jousting, to name just a few of the ideas.

Surely this will bring about a most pleasant summer for fun. In further news, our Bards from all over Middle-Earth are gathering in the festivities within the Edoras Solstice Eisteddfod. This is open to all poets; and so far some of the ones sung or recited, have truly been admirable. This event will run through to the end of June so come down, let your muse free or just sit within this field gazing into the fire and listen. The Æthelmund (Cavalry only) tavern seeing many riders within, are there for a celebration among their new promotions. Of course, no one can escape that all to familiar vile brew the Bilewitox that makes all stomachs rumble and, well, its not the best tasting drink in Middle Earth, I'll say that much. *g* So glad I wasn't one of those that had to drink it. The Cavalry has seen many new entries into their number. A grand and illustrious site to behold, and even the Patrols are now looking better than ever. There is word that Survivor (a challenge) has seen two days so far, and the epic adventures are just now beginning. Within the Riddermarket, new shops seem to be sprouting up. Our Golden Halls within the Throne Room seem to be in a bit of panic with some new Mondorian's making their entrance. What will become of this is soon to be seen, though the Cavalry Patrols are there, so we hope all will be for naught and our King and Queen remain safe. Another wonderful game as well, RPG style event, The Magic Chest is also seeing many visitors. Come and see what the chest will and can do for you.

And lastly, our SCR recipients were as follows;

Éile as Théodwyn
and to
brego58 as Stybba

So with all those and much, much more going on within Rohan, all should stop by and see what’s happening for this summer. Looks to be an awesome time, fun and enjoyment for everyone.

Until next time, I hope the wind be forever at your back, smooth seas beneath your feet.

This is Goldmoon Dunami saying, namarie.

~ Goldmoon Dunami

Lore: Annúminas

Annúminas was a town on the shores of lake Evendim, which is Nenuial in elvish. Its name is Sindarin and means Western tower, or Sunset tower. It refers to Númenóre. This town was the chief city of Arnorian kings many many years ago, shielded in the south by the Emyn Uial. East of the town, around the horn was the source of the river Baranduin flowing south-east It was founded by Elendil in the year 3320 of the Second Age, and stood for about 1000 years. In that city one palantír was kept. But soon after Elendil established it, the numbers of the Dúnedain began to drop in that area and city was slowly falling into ruin. Most of its citizens moved to Fornost, including the Kings. But the palantír and sceptre of Annúminas somehow survived those events; the palantír was later lost in the sea along with Arvedui, last King of Arthedain, one of three minor kingdoms after the split of Arnor. The sceptre, which was brought from Númenóre, as a sceptre of the Lords of the Andunie, through the millenia came into the hands of Aragorn, King Elessar as his inheritance. The city of Annúminas , neglected in ruins, became again the city of the Kings after Aragorn was made King of Arnor and Gondor, and it was re-established as the chief Arnorian city, more than two thousand years after its foundation.

~ Númellótë

Language: Quenya ~ Exercise

Today's lesson will be excercising simple thing what we have learned so far. All you have to do is translate sentences into Quenya. There will be 8 of them in total, where you will have to take care of copula, plural, article or dual number.

First to give you words:

Isil = moon
Calima = bright
Atta = two
Oron = mountain
Rocco = horse
Tie = path
Ercasse = holly
Aran = king
Úmea = evil

1. Moon is bright
2. King is evil
3. Two ships
4. Two ship (alike)
5. Mountain is holly
6. Horse
7. Two paths (any of them)
8. The horse.

You will find the answers in the next edition, along with another new lesson.

With the help from Ardalambion

~ Númellótë

 

 

Crafts - Beading

Nimble Fingers and a Bowl of Beads

Beading is a craft that takes time, a design, a sharp eye and like all crafts patience.

String, seed beads (of whatever color you wish) a special beading needle, and a place and way to secure the string.  What is special about the needle you might ask?  Well, most needles have wider eyes, so thread can go through them easier, however a beading needles eye is about the same size as the rest of the needle so it doesn’t get wider at the end.  This is important because otherwise most of the delicate beads would just get stuck.

Now one could do a simple string of beads, but just about anybody can do that, so we are going to make it a bit trickier.  We are going to do loom beading.  Without the loom as it can be done this way with ease.  To start you need a simple pattern, here is an example of what a pattern would look like:

This pattern involves only two colors and four rows of beads, a relatively easy pattern.  Once you have this you need to determine how many anchor threads you will need.  Anchor threads are those that do not get the beads put on them but hold the main thread in place. To do this, draw a line on each side of the pattern and then a line between each row of beads. That is how many anchor threads will be needed.  Like so:

This particular pattern needs only 5.  These threads should all be the same length and cut to size.  I suggest starting with a bracelet as this take less time than a necklace.  For length all one needs to do is measure out one piece of thread around their wrist and then give enough extra length so that you can tie the pieces off and then tie them together.  And then you will need the main thread.  The main thread is the one that will have all the beads on it.  As such it needs to be longer.  About the length from your hand to the shoulder farthest from that hand should be enough as it is easier to cut off the end of a string then try to add more if you do not have enough.

 Once you have all the strings cut, tie them together with a simple knot. And then anchor them to whatever you chose to, I happen to use tape and a small block of wood.  Once you have this knotted end anchored, space out the anchor threads and secure them in position as well so that they don’t move. Now begin beading.  The easiest way to start is to simply put two or three rows worth of beads on before actually weaving them. So if your pattern is like mine, with black and white beads, you would put on a white bead, then two black beads, then two white beads then two black beads then two white beads, black beads and then another white bead and you would have enough beads for the first three rows.  Once you have the beads on the beading string (the long one) then you can begin weaving.

To weave all you need to do is pick a steady pattern of over under.  If you go over the first thread you need to go under the second and then over the third and so forth and then loop back with the opposite pattern (so if you finished by going over the last thread you will need to go under and weave your way back).  If you don’t, then the beads will not be held in place and you will know right away.  The first few rows will not want to sit right, so you will have to take your time and patience to get them to do so. But once they are sitting right it gets easier to do the rest, either in groups or one at a time.  The first rows need to be done in a group or they will not sit right though doing the loom work this way.  Continue the pattern until the end where you loop the beading thread back through the second last column of beads and the last one again before putting it in with the anchor beads and ting a simple knot like on the other side.  Once you have done this it is ready to be worn.

~ Fuin Elda

 

Poetry

An epitaph for colours

Red is no more,
An ache that remains.
“You revived a sore,
Heating my veins.”

Yellow is glad,
Made a fool of its game.
“All the fun you had,
Directing so high the aim.”

Green is gone,
Its memory is this.
“Trust in you was wrong,
Remain now in the abyss.”

Blue lingers still,
Leaves as the last.
“You chide the thrill,
That left so fast.”

White brought them all,
From green to blue.
“My descent and fall,
My thirst and dew.”

Black is left,
When all else is gone.
“Now that I am bereft,
I have seen my last dawn.”

~ Aduchil

 

 

Word Search

Places of Middle Earth

ANDUIN
ANGBAND
BELERIAND
BUCKLAND
EDHELLOND
ENTWASH
EREBOR
FORODWAITH
HITHAEGLIR
HITHLUM
LINDON
MENELTARMA
NARGOTHROND
RHOVANION
RHUN
SIRANNON
TIRION
UMBAR

~ Elizabeth Swann

 

 

What happens when a LotR and Elf-Fanatic gets a day off

9:00 - I wake up, 4 hours after my alarm clock was supposed to ring. I feel very guilty. Elves probably woke at dawn without any alarms and I can’t do it even with one.

9:15 - I get dressed, in leggings (or an imitation thereof) and a large tee. It still looks like a tunic!

9:20 - Breakfast. Fruit-salad, because I guess that what elves would eat for breakfast.

9:25 - I go jogging. I think that elven soldiers do that. Right?

9:45 - I do archery! The bow is wooden and the protections are leather. The target is rather elven, too. I only have 2 arrows, so doing 20 shots per minute is a tiny bit complicated, and I don’t have a normal quiver, but I do hit the center sometimes. ^^ I read somewhere that 250 shots per day are enough.

10:15 - The 250 shots are done. I think. It might be only 150 though. I sort of…messed up somewhere in the middle. Anyways, now I will practice sword-fighting with my wooden stick. I only can dream of that real sword I saw in that shop. *sigh* It felt sooo nice.

10:25 - Okay, I give up. Wooden stick is not a good substitute for a sword. But it something. Time for kickboxing.

10:40 - I’m done! There was no wine at home. Pfft. So I had to drink water. Then took a nice bath, just as elves do. However, had to use shower gel, as do not have natural soap. Mental note: buy it.

11:10 - Plaaaaaaaaaaaza!!!!!!!!!! I posted in the Army RPG, loose thread, Valley of Rivendell, Bards’ Guilds, Govannas, AN, Racing, the Drill, Siniath. Then for a break, I reviewed 10 art threads. Then I wrote the three articles for the Herald and two for MeM and Rivendell reports for Fangorn, Rohan and Shire newspapers. Whew. Then I reviewed another 10 threads of fan-fiction. Then I posted in BL, Peoples, Locations, even in AL! Then my mum came home, so I only had two hours more. I updated the Caption Contest, answered a newbie, posted a picture of me doing archery. And that silly thread. With the remaining time, I raided Lorien. The Maze, the Gardens, The Lawn, The Hollow. Then I remembered and came back and posted in the library and the forge in Rivvy. And that was it.

19:00 - I read FotR. *happy sigh*

21:00 - I watched FotR to the annoyance of my parents. I do not understand. They say I watch it every third day. Yes. Who wouldn’t want to watch FotR every third day?

~ Tinessael

 

 

The Foo

~ Fuin Elda

 

 

Oops!  Jano did ‘it’ again!

When an important figure in the Valley gets hitched every one knows about it.  It even generally makes the paper when it involves not just one but two elves that are well known.  

This was exactly the case with Janowyn; earlier this year the Herald ran an article about her wedding to Telly (Sergeant of the Valleys F.W.A.T. team).  Later this report was rabidly denied by her, even though she’d been spotted several times wearing a wedding band.  You guessed it.  It was a match set with Telly.  Who was also wearing his ring.  Next we’ll be getting it was a wardrobe malfunction…

Yet rumor has it that she is engaged again to a different elf.  Which will likely be just as crazy as Telly was.  Sadly it’s quite obvious that this ‘star’ of the Valley has not told her purported beloved (unless it was a tree that I spotted her snuggling with) about her previous fiasco with the Sergeant Cue-ball.  One can only wonder how long this relationship can last before dear Jano moves onto husbands 3, 4 and 5.  I give her a year, and then maybe she’ll cut off her hair in a fit.

Obviously that nonsense about marriage being a joining of elven fëas was a load of Asfaloth’s best soiled straw.  As I don’t remember either Telly or Jano going to the Halls of Mandos?

Editorial update ~ *desperately tries to stop nostrils flaring - fails* having checked with our sources very carefully (bearing in mind the litigious nature of the lady named herein) we can confirm that the marriage - fake or otherwise - between Janowyn and Sgt. Savaloy has been publicly disavowed by both Elves before distinguished witnesses in the Chamber of Audience. Any bonding vows have therefore been officially relinquished and dissolved so both Janowyn and Sgt. Savaloy are free to plight their troths (or anything else but that’s another story) elsewhere as they see fit. No journey to Mandos’ Halls is therefore required in either case.

Stop Press ~ In a vehement statement last night Sgt. Savaloy made the following comments:
Elda! Sheesh! Lay off with the stirring you dippy broad! We sorted it OK? I’m on official bachelor status again – on the dating market again… So if any of you lovely maidens out there are looking for lurve then I’m your ellon! *moves Elrond-like- eyebrows in a mysterious way*
Hey Elda - dint’cha used to be a girl once? Sure I saw you in a dress sometime… Hey yeah! The ARPYs! Where ya goin’ now? – come back right here missy!