~The Middle Earth Messenger~

June 2004

Messages from Eru	Index
Eru

Library Update

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Just like any other aspect of plaza life, the Plaza Library is a way for plaza members to delve into all parts of Middle Earths colourful and intricate history and find out more about the world we have all come to know and love. Since last issue, we have made further progress on our mission to make the library one of the most comprehensive sources for Middle Earth's history and other related research on the net. The first age is now complete and the second and third ages are not far behind. As to the fourth age this is proving to be a tad trickier due to the fact not an awful lot is known about it but however we still struggle on and MM insists we can reach our goal (if not sometime before the plaza 50th anniversary!) As this is an official TH article I have been exploring the many tunnels and passages of information contained within the library to find a likely recipient of the "TH's article of the month award" and I am pleased to note that this month it has been a struggle finding one winner as there are so many A* articles out there. However, I managed to pick one and it is Elberone for the outstanding article produced on "The Attack on Valimar" as this one was a particularly long piece, I'll just post an excerpt here and then you can go and check out the full article (link later in this article) In the year of 2941 of the Third Age, Bilbo and his companions embarked on a quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain (or Erebor) from the dragon Smaug. One hundred and seventy one years before the start of the 'Quest of Erebor', the dragon Smaug had descended on Erebor, an ancient kingdom of the dwarves to the east of the Misty Mountains and beyond Mirkwood. Here he took home in the Lonely Mountain and the dwarves of the kingdom that survived scattered themselves across Middle-earth. The idea of the quest came to the mind of Gandalf after he discovered Thrain, son of Thror, in the dungeons of the Necromancer (who is really Sauron) at Dol Guldur. There, the Ring of Thrain was taken by Sauron, but Gandalf retrieved an ancient map which revealed a hidden passageway into the Lonely Mountain. He also knew that in years to come, the death of the great, green Dragon, and a new Dwarven stronghold in the North would be crucial to Middle-earth's survival during Sauron's growth in power. Gandalf thus brought his idea, and the map, to Thorin, son of Thrain and rightful heir to the throne of the Kingdom of the Mountain. Thorin had lead many survivors to the Blue Mountains near the Shire where they settled. Whilst here, Thorin and Gandalf plotted their revenge upon the dragon and Gandalf convinced Thorin that a Hobbit should accompany the 12 dwarves (including Thorin)on their quest: a hobbit, for his small size and silent feet, would be necessary for its success. As you can see by the article above the Library has a team of very dedicated and talented writers working to make the library a better place for all. However, if we are ever to achieve our goal then we need more helpers to write about more and more subjects. If you wish to be a part of this (very worthy) cause then please visit the Third Age II thread in the LOTR Library and Newsletter Forum and sign up. As I said it is a very worthy cause and as an added incentive all article published on the library will be awarded with a certain amount of points. Hope to see you there! By Thorin Windhelm

Advanced Lore of the Month

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Just a Lucky Arrow? T his month's ad lore of the month focuses on the killing of Smaug by Bard with his black arrow. Bard's Black Arrow was more than just a simple arrow. It was forged in the forges of the king under the Mountains. And it lucky that it was, because a simple arrow would not have been able to kill a dragon. Now it should be remembers that it was not just Bard's arrow that contributed to the slaying of Smaug. Bard also happened to be told of the weak spot in Bard's armor by the thrush, who had overheard it from the dwarves and Bilbo. First the discussion turned to the matter of whether or not the arrow was more than just lucky in the first place. It then moved to how any arrow could possibly kill a dragon in the first place, no matter how lucky or magical it was. There was a quick side discussion over what happened to the arrow after Smaug fell from the sky and a popular conclusion was that it dissolved, having completed the task for which it was destined. The discussion has lastly moved to what makes and object 'lucky.' The Black Arrow of Bard is an interesting discussion filled with thought-provoking material. It is definitely a thread that is very interesting to read. Hopefully it will continue to do so. It is one that I will be watching closely. By Nylara

Plaza Wide Competitions

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Welcome to this months edition of Plaza wide competitions. This month I will be covering a competition from two kingdoms. The Shire is currently playing host to many activities, but I think this month I will take a look at the Drill Team playoffs. The current playoff is Fangorn VS Rohan. Both teams are currently putting up a great fight, with each team having very good players. The rosters for each kingdom are as follows: Fangorn Morim (co capt) Arallyr (co capt) Yuca MegB Fern Silver Snik Alts: Tele Rohan Rock (Éoarod) co-capt Pegs (Andér) co-capt Doom Eilonwy Elvh Fhoma Gem lcdh Luke Ragnelle Rivendell has always been a place of exciting competitions, but now they have gone to the extreme. They have created a competition called Survivor: Middle Earth. It is a recreation of the TV show Survivor, where there are two teams who battle it out till there is one person who is the winner. The two teams in this edition of Survivour are the Menels and the Cemens. This competition is virtually a recreation of the TV show, but an RPG version. I urge people greatly to take a look at this competition, as I think it is a great way to view some of the people of the plaza and what they would do to survive. By Moonlite Shadow

Rivendell

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Rivendell Ramblings It's been a busy month this month - this poor elf doesn't know where to start! First, the Special Character Ranks were awarded - the lucky five were Eithil (Gildor), Lady Shadowdawn (Lindir), IdrilCelebrinda (Erestor), Lilu Olnathron (Galdor of Mithlond) and Elnarsil (Cirdan). Along with this, an RPG was opened, called the Mandate of Ulmo, as a setting for the ranks to be used. Elves from all over Middle Earth were summoned to the Grey Havens, where Cirdan had received a message from Ulmo - they were to build a ship to rival Vingilot, the reason as yet unclear! The elves set to with a will, and very soon had crafted a ship both beautiful and seaworthy. Gathering to hear what they were to do next, imagine their surprise as Ulmo himself (played magnificently by the most adorable Arlo) appeared in front of them to bless their voyage! Still unsure as to their mission, the elves are as I write this taking their new ship (Cirestel, ship of hope) out for her maiden voyage…the ending remains unknown! Ever wondered where the Hall of Fire was in Elrond's house, or the Belfry? Now's your chance to find out more - half a year in the making, Project Imladris is finally completed! Originally thought of by Lae, this ambitious project sought to map and describe the whole of the valley, and it has most definitely succeeded! With contributions from countless elves, some nifty coding and hours of work by Arlo and Lae, the final product (although still being updated) can be seen here! This month also saw the results of the Edenidhrinn contest announced - for a full list of all winners, please take a peek at the thread . Two new games were also started - Lilu first killed off 25 poor innocent ME dwellers with her Necromancer's Fortress challenge (why not sign up yourself next time, and try to beat the Fortress? A survivor has yet to be found…) Then Rhîn opened her Rivendell Challenge thread, a test of lore for the six teams who signed up; spectators are welcome - come see if you know more than those on the teams! Now for your regular Survivor update - Menel managed to fight back and win the Immunity Challenge, despite being at a disadvantage due to less tribememebers, and the unlucky votee was Rilome of Rivendell. This leaves Cemen only one teammember up on Menel - things are getting interesting! As always, spectators are welcome - do come along and support your friends! Finally, with the Last Alliance RPG in full swing, the Rivendell Army has seen some major changes. Instead of four regiments, they now only have two - the Othrim and the Beriadrim, warriors and defenders. Each have three divisions, but their main difference is that the Othrim are cavalry while the Beriadrim are infantry. Kingdoms with a history of invading (*coughMordorcough*) should note that it is now an even worse idea than ever - Rivendell is too well defended! On that happy note, here are the threads open to everyone in Rivendell at the moment. Writers Guild Siniath Imladris (Mail thread) Survivor: Middle Earth Animal Care Centre Towers of No Return Bards Guild ELP Clinic! Council of Elrond (Foreign Announcements) Conundrums of Arda (Riddle) By Eithil

Khazad-Dûm	Index
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The Shire	Index
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The White Council

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Tales from the White Council May has seen many changes for the White Council. In the ongoing story of The Night Mage, the travelers have learned some new information about the mysterious Mage, and continue their search after a week of rest. This epic RPG, still underway, began with a simple investigation of a strange attack on Edoras by strange beasts. From there, the journeyers have faced a strange flock of birds and a bull, traveled across Eriador, and even gone so far as the Sea of Rhûn. However, the quest has been temporarily postponed; it should resume shortly. For those whose idea of an adventure focuses less on saving the world and more on self-entertainment, another expedition, lead by Elen Sila, is traveling off to the pits of despair, where they will face… well, nobody knows what. They have already gone off in search of the evil pirate Gilligan, the famed kidnapper of El's teddy bear. Encountering a number of strange people on their journey, the group was eventually faced against the Umbrians. In a moment of genius and, yes, having watched too many movies, El directed the creation of a wooden badger to sneak into the Umbrian fortification. Unfortunately, El never remembered to load the army into the badger, and the result was the use of the wooden animal for catapult ammunition by the Umbrians. In the most recently started RPG, a group of snooping wizards has broken into Arwe's suite and is searching through her belongings for anything they can find after huddling together during a scary night in May's installments of the ongoing short RPGs, the Around and About Orthanc series. In the more scholarly activities, Coa Ingoleva, the magic discussion forum, has focused its current investigations to the field of magic and machinery. Specifically, it has been formulating working definitions for tool, machine, and weapon, and will soon move on to examine the role of magic with all of these. Also, Parma Knolwe, the group which analyzes works by Tolkien other than those of Middle-earth as well as similar works by others, has begun a discussion of the Narnia series. As the analysis of Middle-earth continues, even newer threads are being created in the ever studious WC to fully understand it. The WC Bard's Guild has begun a detailed investigation of music and poetry in Middle-earth, cataloging as many songs, lays, and even couplets as possible. The Orthanc Observatory is creating a concise description of the night sky of Middle-earth. Furthermore, an old activity in the WC has reemerged after more than a year of collecting dust in the archives - the Council of the Wise, which has come to discuss whether pure evil may exist in Middle-earth and whether Orcs are inherently evil. The Order of Merlin, the honor group of the WC, has changed in membership, with the sad retirement of Eltirme, Derom, and Palamorn, coupled with the joyous inductions of Earane Ancalime, Ultchuk, Loremistressre, and Mædhros. Where are these wonderful inductees to eat? In the WC pub, of course! The pubs for the month of May included the popular White Hand Pub, in which each customer was smacked on the forehead with a hand coated in flour to make a white hand like Saruman's former emblem, as well as the Pub of Travel and Adventure, Fantasy Trip Café, the home-themed pub, and the Bed and Breakfast Pub. Of special significance for all non-Istari this month is the implementation of a new rule. Beginning now, in the Istari Correspondence Office (ICO), banners, advertisements, and other invitations from other kingdoms are no longer permitted, as well as notices regarding family members or other relations; these should be taken to the Out of Middle-earth forum or the houses. Non-Istari are still permitted to participate, but no advertisements should be posted. With these changes, the remainder of the White Council activities is still ticking on, including: The Round Table of Orthanc Old Angren Street Market StarQuality Robes Ltd. Fantasy Trip Cafe Orthanc Library MM&PP The Armoury of Isengard Ye Olde Staff Shoppe Fires of Industry VIII Heren Istarion Elen (April Edition) By Donedhelien

Minas Tirith

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The buzz words around Minas Tirith these days are still "cart racing", with the Gondorian Championship in full swing and the second race, sporting the moniker "Pelargir Purgatory" well under way. Heated debate, thrills, spills and underhand tactics appear to be the order of the day with new and old cart racers alike battling it out for a podium finish, who will take that elusive first place spot over the line? Watch this space! The Special characters for June have been recently announced and there's once again a good spread of 4th age characters bestowed upon a deserving group of individuals which should lead to some exciting role play possibilities in our monthly Mini-RP's. May's collection of Special Rankers have certainly enjoyed playing their new roles in some RPG's organised specially in their honour and there has been much excitement as others came forth eager to play their fathers, mothers and ancestors in a series of retro pieces set in the past. A certain Arteris has certainly been eager to Boromir his way around the plaza and certain talk of killing himself off in the defence of hobbits has subsequently been raised. Elsewhere we find it is week 9 for the plaza famed Inter-Kingdom debates and Minas Tirith is currently playing host to Lothlorien. The topic this time hovers over the hot potato of the Valar's possible error in the setting free of Melkor, with MT in Support and Lorien handling the Opposition. Should be another exciting battle of wits, shame both teams came unarmed. Ahem apologies there… The independent production of the now well-known piece "The Orcs Who Say Ni" is continuing within the White Tree theatre and distinguished guests are currently enjoying a much needed intermission as hard working Gondorians unleash their creative talent on the audience. May the 8th marked our venerable King Naith Liathant's 1 year anniversary as ruler of Gondor and the White City. Citizens turned out in swarms to offer their congratulations and the most creative minds worked hard to offer pieces of poetry and artwork to commemorate this momentous time. May we enjoy many more of these anniversaries in future. Eru save the King! In other news the Jello Wrestling Tournament has once again proved itself a hive of activity as we see all manner of high-ranking and well thought of citizens of Minas Tirith pelting one another with the multicoloured confection or merely grinning in amusement from the stands as rather sticky competitors wrestle it out for pride and renown. Towards the beginning of May we saw the return of our wonderful Queen Laielinwen after she left us mid April for health related reasons. There was certainly much worry and turmoil in her absence and although King Liathant coped admirably single-handed there was obviously no replacing Laielinwen, if even for a short while. However, return she did and citizens of all Kingdoms turned out in force to welcome back her Highness and it almost seemed to this reporter as if Minas Tirith as a whole had breathed a collective sigh of relief in learning our much missed Queen had come back to us safe and sound. Eru save the Queen! May also marked the beginning of the sign up phase for Minas Tirith's part in the plaza-wide Last Alliance RPG with King Naith Liathant himself portraying King Elendil of men whilst Ranger Commander Hoyamir took the reins to the character of Anarion, with Ranger Second in Command Pellaadarion stepping into the shiny shoes of Isildur Those interested can witness the events unfold by visiting the Last Alliance RPG threads located in Rivendell where the Alliance undertake their arduous march South toward Mordor, intent on defending Middle Earth on behalf of all free people. Well, enough for this Month Plazarites so take care and enjoy yourself… oh, and come visit Minas Tirith, most of us don't bite! By Pellaadarion

Lothlorien

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The Kingdom of Lothlórien has now existed for more than four months, and has reached a great level of activity. It has more than 1,500 members and is a good mix of role-playing games, guilds and contests. Although it might seem for many that nothing happens in Lothlórien, things go on all the time, and that makes us all proud of being members of the Golden Realm of Galadriel and Celeborn! New Ruler After a bit more than four wonderful months as Ruler of Lothlórien, Master Herdir, the one with many names (Master Herdir, Master Heledh, MH Sneezes), abdicates. Leaving the whole kingdom of Lothlórien in shock, he opens a thread simply called "Mandë", and says his farewells to the Galadhrim. In the same thread he announces the new member who achieved the rank of Lord Celeborn: Imfalas. All Galadhrim wish both Imfalas and Master Herdir good luck! < Special Ranks The "Lord of the Rings Fanatics Plaza" has introduced a new "special-rank" system, as most members know. Five lucky members from Lothlórien got their ranks as follows: Firien Vorondil got the rank of Haldir Menthol got the rank of Calaglin Naurloth got the rank of Orophin Ecaps got the rank of Rúmil Tari Carnesir got the rank of Nimrodel A few comments here given by the Ruler who announced the SCRs. · About Firien: Firien Vorondil will receive the rank of Haldir for his hard work, commitment and dedication. · About Menthol: Menthol will receive the rank of Calaglin for her work as warden and for her dedication to Lorien. · About Naurloth: Naurloth will receive the rank of Orophin for her hard work throughout the plaza, Lorien and the Guild. · About Ecaps: Ecaps will receive the rank of Rúmil for his many talents and tireless efforts. · About Tari Carnesir: Tari Carnesir will receive the rank of Nimrodel for all of her work and dedication in the Gardens, Lorien and the plaza. Congratulations to this month's receivers of the SCRs from all Galadhrim! Ruler of Lothlórien gets married Lairë Vendelotë, the incumbent Ruler of the Golden Wood, got married to Aduchil, who moved from Rivendell after his rank as Gil-Galad expired, on 5 May 2004. Aduchil proposed extravagantly in Caras Galadhon after he had ordered a precious ring from the Lothlórien Jewellery Association. The LJA worked hard for a few days to finish the ring according to Aduchil's deadline. A great wedding feast was arranged. Merl Moriestiel and Nayeldraccon got married on the same day, and the two couples celebrated in "I Vestad Edhil Ganad". New Activities The Lórien Hollow Lothlórien's first pub, called the Lórien Hollow, was opened for the very first time on 8 May 2004. The first thread, opened by Naurloth, was called "The Lórien Hollow - Grand Opening!", and was a big success. The pub reached 113 posts in only 3 days! That gives an average of approx. 38 posts a day! A banner contest was started in the second thread, "The Lórien Hollow of a Banner Contest!". Good luck to the three pub operators Naurloth, Narquelië and Endilion! The Mirror Merl Moriestiel and Himlithion have worked hard to get Lothlórien's newspaper, The Mirror, up and going again. And up it went. A strict and meticulous schedule has been set up. The articles about the many activities of Lothlórien are to be written by the head of the activity. A substitute, in case the head of the activity cannot write the article, will be an active member within the activity in question. The Mirror edition for May will be up by Friday 28 May. A whole planning thread called "The Mirror Editor's Office V" has brought this edition to life. Birthdays A-R-A-G-O-N of Lothlórien has opened a thread where elves of Lothlórien only are to post their birthdays so that they can be added to the kingdom pages. The thread is simply called "Lothlorien Birthdays II". People who post there do post their month and day, but they aren't forced to post the year if they don't want to. Only members of level 4 and higher are allowed to post their birthdays. Diaries of the Borderguards Nayeldraccon opened on 20 May the "Diaries of the Borderguards". It is a thread where Galadhrim may post how they once killed an orc. It sounds easy, but it isn't. The posts have to be long and specific, and very original. It is meant as a competition, and therefore everyone has to do his or her best to win with the best entry in the Diaries of the Borderguards! Himlithion

Meduseld

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S ummer is finally here and with some of our time now free, we are now able to focus on changing, growing and expanding. New projects have been launched, new ideas spread and new responsibilities have been formed. Some return to us from long breaks, yet others leave us, yet we will always remember and honor their contributions to our kingdom. With the winds stirring, everyone can feel and see the changes, for summer brings new ideas and hopes for all of us! All good things must come to an end, such as The Horsemanship Trials run by Starfire. Ending after three months of challenges, the winners have finally been announced, with a tie for second place. Winning the first ever Horsemanship Trials is the rider Rocheril. In second place, Iddesteda and Gypsy both tied followed by Elionwy in third. Another good thing that came to an end was Lác in Ælemiddeland run by Faenen from Rivendell with the help of Ele Isenfolme. Originally started and thought up of by Narquelië of Lothlorien, Faenen had helped run that and brought the idea to Rohan. It was approved in Rohan within a week or two, yet not as a permanent thread. Because of the first rounds great success, the game has been allowed to run again, yet with the understanding that the rulers still have not approved it as a permanent thread. As many are aware, a huge event has been taking place in the kingdoms. The Last Alliance, a major RPG, has started in Rohan. With the Rohirrim playing as Easterlings under the command of two black Númenoreans. Starting in the Brown Lands, our army marched to the banks of Anduin in the west. After a rest, the army began moving northward up the east side of the river, planning to fortify the Old Forge between Mirkwood and the Misty Mountains and then ambush the Alliance. In Cavalry news, many promotions have been given out, and sadly, some have left us. Our 2nd Marshal has left, and Marshal Malorn has stepped up to fill the gap, leaving the position of 3rd Marshal empty. Eormed was called forward to accept the duties of 3rd Marshal of the Westmark! In addition, a new rank has been added to the warrior ranks. They are now Sperewigend, Scyldwigend, Sweordwigend and Eowigend. In the Eastmark, four riders have moved up to Scyldwigend, three riders have moved up to Sweordwigend and two riders have moved up to Eowigend. Four riders have been promoted to Maegisterwigends of the Werods, and two riders have been promoted to Aethelwigends. Ele Isenfolme has been promoted to Feldmarshal and one rider has been promoted to Ærest Paethfindian and one has been promoted to Paethfindian have been promoted. In the Meduseld Eored, three riders have moved up to Scyldwigend, four riders have moved up to Sweordwigend and four riders have moved up to Eowigend. Three riders have been promoted to Maegisterwigends of the Werods, and one rider has been promoted to Aethelwigend. Starfire has been promoted to Feldmarshal and one rider has been promoted to Ærest Paethfindian and one has been promoted to Paethfindian have been promoted. In the Westmark, four riders have moved up to Scyldwigend, three riders have moved up to Sweordwigend and one rider has moved up to Eowigend. Four riders have been promoted to Maegisterwigends of the Werods, and one rider has been promoted to Aethelwigend. One rider has been promoted to Ærest Paethfindian and one has been promoted to Paethfindian have been promoted. With the start of a new season, it's rat-racing time! Our team has been chosen by Imbeannowyn, Anawen and Twin Demon who will be moderating and leading the team in the rat races. We are ready for our first race against Lothlorien, starting June 27th. We will be hosting the event, with KD moderating the race. All of are racers are excited, this season looks like it's going to be a good one! Promotions are a big part of Meduseld. As our riders move on to higher ranks in the Cavalry, pass into the west or deal with RL issues, we are constantly looking for responsible riders to help fill the gap, yet with the understanding that those who have left us can never be replaced. This month, as winds begin stirring in the Cavalry and stranger things occur, Eléowyn has resigned from her Lædanmangere position in the Riddermarket, as so she could focus her attention on her Cavalry duties. Both Fëa and Eléowyn agreed that Penny Lyscop was to be the new Lædanmangere of the market, and she has happily accepted, running the market beside out resident Vala Fëa. As Maiarian Man sadly left us and handed the title of Bilbo The Librarian to another worthy member, Rohan was honored to wish our own ride Andér luck as he embraced the title with pride. It is an honor Andér deserves, and Rohan couldn't be prouder. The second round of Lác in Ælemiddeland is under way, yet the GM Faenen Erurén decided that he needed help running the game, so Twin Demon has stepped up to Co-GM with him. As Rohan is growing, one young rider had the idea of opening a Guild of Historians. Anka's idea was approved by our rulers, and guild has had it's opening! The guild ranks are (from lowest to highest) Leornere, Frea, Gelyfed-frea, Runwita and Hyrde (in English Learner, Master, Advanced Master, Councellor, Guardian). The members will move up in the ranks depending on their activeness and contributions. The guild motto of Myntan, Raedan, Awritan (Think, Advise, Write) is an inspiration to us all. The aim of the guild is to construct a detailed history of Rohan and the Rohirrim that is true to Tolkein's writings. With the process of dividing riders into groups of two or three to research a certain topic and then come together to make sure it is true to Tolkein's works. Then they will write it in a detailed manner and present it to the guild for review (praise, constructive critisim, etc). Eventually Anka Is confident that the guild will be able to produce an accurate account of Rohan's history. What does every rider want? A chance to serve their kingdom! And now they can, better than ever! To many riders' joy and surprised, our rulers have opened an application thread to apply for special positions in the kingdom. The positions available are Art Guildmaster, Pubmaster, Festival House Co-owner and Newbie or non-Newbie RPG GM. The Art Guild Master will be a rider who can start the guild from scratch and a passion for art. The pubmaster(s) will be a rider or two riders who can control the open pubs, moderating them instead of our rulers. They will be the ones creating the new pubs, closing the old ones and coming up with crazy themes for us all to enjoy! The RPG GMs will be riders who are experienced in the RPGing area or who want to learn how to GM so they can move up to GMing by their selves. They would help run all the RPGs in Rohan. Since it has come to the rulers' attention that the Rohirric KPs need to be updated and more can be added, the Rohirric KP project has been launched! Any rider who wants to help may, but the rulers are hoping to get some HTML knowledgeable riders to help also. With around ten pages being updated and eight new ones being added, once the project is finally finished, it will be worth the long haul! And finally this months special ranks have been handed out! The receiving riders are Culfinwen, Imbeannowyn, Rorina, Lail, and Anka. Two RPGs have been started in honor of their hard work. It's All Child's Play is already on its fourth thread! Come visit the Riddermarket with all the young children of the mark. No adults are allowed, and candy is more abundant than flowers! Pony rides also grace the scene! As The Wold Turns (A Saddle Soap) is the drama of Eowyn and Faramir's cross country ride and the mystery of the missing statue. As the shield maiden and Faramir return to Meduseld, Eomer looks for his statue of Felaróf, which has disappeared. And when things couldn't get more dramatic…he gets a message that his wife's father is coming to visit, as is his…dead…mother? That's right! And the poor Queen has fallen into a coma with all this stress…what will happen? Culfy Imbe Rorina Lail Anka By Twin

Fangorn

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Unfortunately for our blessed land, the greatest ent and entwife has departed, Collecthor (Achoo) our beloved Treebeard and Marina, our wonderful Fimbrethil. But fortunately, two outstanding members have stepped up to fill there shoes, and we all know how hard that can be, Casaroo (Roo) and Morim Featauron. Morim, although becoming Treebeard but a little more than a week ago is already doing fantastic and it is wonderful to have such a great role model leading Fangorn. Roo, who has been Quickbeam for the last month or so, is also doing fantastic, hopefully their reigns are long and fruitful, and the Golden Age that we have been experiencing shall definitely live on under their leadership. The special character ranks have been issued in Fangorn each month to five members who have either served as a great mENTor to our younger entings, one who is a Jack of All Trades and who's influence is seen throughout Fangorn, one who has shown great expertise in Lore and has emerged as a leader in the Lore activities, the most promising newbie, and lastly one who has displayed exceptional talents in IC posting and is involved in most if not all activities involving IC participation. There has also been a change of leadership in the relatively new Wanderers Guild; Silver Leaf has been added as a Head Guild Mistress along with Lanthir Lamath and Eruantuel. The guild has been prospering with the compilation of a complete guide to the locations of middle earth, including interesting travel facts and cultural analysis. The Crafting Guild has come into form, founded by EL Sneezes and Fingolfin, the guild has been doing wonderfully, with many orders and return orders the Guild is kept very busy and prosperous. With four branches of specialists in Furniture making, Sculpting, Pottery, and Decorations and Inscriptions, they can do everything, well…everything except if it involved wood! The TreeGarth as always, is progressing as it usually does, with a steady pace of great posts and participation. The TreeGarth currently has a RPG open call "Storm Warning" in which the TreeGarthers are battling horrific weather coming from Isengard and are going to great lengths to stop whoever is causing this devilry. The famous and loved Ghaladir and Nulaur (Snik) has returned to the great forest, immediately making a great impact throughout the forest and especially in the TreeGarth among others. The Entwash Falls Medical Center has been reformed in the Healing Grove and is definitely rolling along at a great pace, with an influx in members and patients the grove remains ever active and interesting. If you ever have an illness, you know where to go, The Healing Grove in Fangorn, where there are four different branches of specialty, including potions, surgery, herbs, and diseases. By EL Sneezes (Entlor)

Mordor

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After a long hiatus, the time has finally come for the Army of Mordor to march once more - against the Last Alliance. Currently, however, the Army is unaware of the turn in events soon to come, and is on it's way to invade Gondor, having just reached the Morannon. The Army is led by Shadwell (also known as Loke or Gothmog, and the Lieutenant of Sauron for this particular RPG), Azog (the Prime Minion of Mordor, and in the RPG the Witchking of Angmar) and Raven (currently masquerading as Immacolata, and Ravenlock the Orc Captain). This is the first war we have been involved in since the (in)famous Lothlórien War, and despite the fact that we already know the Last Alliance wins at the end of the day, Minions have been enlisting to play a part in this war like there's no tomorrow... Lately Mordor has experienced a flood of "new" Minions, those who have converted from other Kingdoms, and those who have returned after a time away. We wish to welcome Seralqua, Anonymouse, and Elberone back to the Land of Shadow and Ash, and also wish our newly converted slaves (including the eminent Marina Lassion, language expert Beren, and Pharazôn) a bloody and torturous life in Mordor. The Debating Den is reveling in what is undoubtedly the best season we have ever experienced, with the tally so far standing at four wins, three losses, and no draws. Congratulations go to the debaters, and especially to our team captain, Loke! At the moment, we are involved in our ninth debate, against Rivendell, in Mordor - spectators are, as always, most welcome... Minion of the Month for June is Rohanna, one of the finest Minions to ever walk the land of Middle Earth. A fairly recent convert from Rohan, she has quickly proven her dedication and skills, and now runs the Route 666 RPG, is the Editor of GRaBT (the Mordor Magazine), and is the Pub Wench a.k.a. Lord of the Pub. Congratulations - it's certainly well-deserved! Fancy yourself as an artist? Well, here's your chance to prove it! Mordor is currently running an Art Contest, open to all kingdoms, on the topic of the Last Alliance. Points will be awarded to the best entries. Go on and enter! In other news - The Caption Contest is now open to all Kingdoms - A Thief is still on the loose in Mordor...visit the Thief Hunt to try and catch him/her/it - Brand new Minion-only game, Domination, begins - First ever Magazine of Mordor (GRaBT in an all-new layout) awaits you in the Mordor Forum... By Raven Enter Here

Through the Keyhole

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Welcome to this months edition of through the keyhole. Since I have taken on the job of this article I have been seeing a lot of beautiful houses that people have spent a lot of effort on. I hope that everyone will keep up the great work, so I can keep enjoying writing this article for you all to see. If you have any houses you would like to see reviewed, then please email the link to me at Moonlite_Shadows@hotmail.com. This month we will be looking at The Shire Players pavilion and the The Middle Earth Social Room. The Shire Players Pavilion: Since Lord Of The Rings was published all those many years ago, people have been making recreations of Tolkien works for the enjoyment of many. But although these plays are brilliant, they forget the people of the internet and the plaza. This house provides a company for common lord of the rings fans like us, to enjoy there many plays, or to even participate in one of them ourselves. I believe this house is a great stop for would-be actors, to show there talents to the people of the plaza. To sign up to have a position in the plays, or to work backstage for the pavilion, you need to gohere, and fill out the form provided. This talented group of actors, actresses and others have gotten to make a lot of performances all around the plaza. Some of the plays that they have recreated are: The Crystal Heart Their first ever performance in the Shire, the kingdom from which this group was formed. Based on a Vietnamese legend, The Crystal Heart is the story of a young princess named Mi Nuong, who learns that appearances can be deceiving, but it is the heart that speaks true. Starring: Sharvak_Saelta, Lalaith Mel, Istya Alassea Alora Lantri, Finduilas, ecaps and Fioni Aranel Music by ecaps Props by Marine Took Sound and lighting by Tari Boffin and Hanna Banks Directed by Mitzi Forlark A Love Immortal In honour of the newly-weds, Blackrose Bug and Hoth. Currently underway - A story of eternal love Actors/Actresses who participate in this company must, like real actors learn scripts, and learn to act (but using rpg instead of real acting.)They must take the scripts given to them, and then transform them through there acting, and much editing into the marvellous plays that take all of our breaths away. The script writers in the play, although people don't notice them very much, are the people who actually turn these plays into what the actors make them. (So make sure you comment the script writer next time you see a good movie/play!) Some other important people in the company are the makeup artists, the props designers and the technicians. But we all know one thing for sure, is that none of this could be made possible if it weren't for all these people. So next time your feeling bored, or are just looking for fun on the plaza, visit some of the plays, or even sighn up to help with the plays. The Middle Earth Social Club In a cosy little Hobbit hole in the Shire, lies a place that exists for the delight of all of the people of the plaza. Weather you be and old timer on the plaza, or even a wee ickle newbie this is the place for you. It has activities to suit most personalities, and is loads of fun for those seeking some new friends on the plaza. For those who have a slight dancing side in them there is a Dance Hall, where you can participate in dancing lessons once a week or even teach them! You can have a party here or just socialise with the people of the plaza. And for those who feel that they want there voice heard by many, there is a song room, where you can sing your little hearts out, and no-one will dare criticise you(although they cant really criticise, cause they cant here you sing.)You can even post songs you have written for the enjoyment of all. And lastly for those fond of socialising over a good drink or meal, the pub is for you. The food and drink there is delicious and everyone is friendly so pop in and say hello. Although this house is only a new small(but ever growing)house in the big world of The Shire, they have managed to bring to the plaza, what people cannot usually get in normal rpg in the kingdoms. They have brought the gift of art, and the gift of socialising together, to create a bond that I'm sure will help them grow, and help improve the plaza in many ways. The Middle Earth Social Room, is a place where all races of Middle Earth can get together with people of there's or other races. It includes a song room, a war room(Only for Hobbits though),a Dance Hall, and an excellent pub. By Moonlite Shadow

Poetry and Plaza Art

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The Poetry and Fanfiction Forum is also host to something else...art! The unique "Art Café" located there hosts the many different forms of art created by Plaza members. One feature of the Art Café is that any artist who posts eight pieces of approved art is eligible for his/her own art thread! As of this writing, twenty-one artists had received that privilege. One of the artists who has earned her own thread is this month's showcase artist: Minyadagniriel. This talented Rider of Rohan has been drawing since she was two, though the charcoal medium used above is somewhat new to her. She has said that this untitled artwork took about three hours to create. A unique aspect to Minyadagniriel's art is that, instead of striving to make everything perfect, she intentionally puts a flaw into every one of her drawings. To her, they're a trademark. To visit her art thread, go here. You can also see her art in a few of the Art Cafés and request her artwork in the character creation thread. Some artists specialize in artwork done on the computer. Our beloved Protoguy has started a graphics workshop for those who are a bit PhotoShop impaired. Drop by to check it out! Other artists take photographs and digitally morph them into wild, creative forms of art. Many examples of this art and other computer-created artwork can be seen in Art Café IX: The Light. There are two major art-based services found in the Poetry and Fanfiction Forum. They are the "Get Your Name Designed Here" and the "Get Your Character Drawn Here" threads. These immensely popular threads are home to many artists that create name designs and portraits for other members. Though the threads are constantly being replaced, one can always find the current version close to the top in P&FF. The next time you've got a minute to spare, drop in and look into some of the art threads, titled in red. You just might be inspired yourself! By D45 By Fëa

Valinor comings and goings

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Our long serving and memorable Lord Indur resigned as Melkor.He is one of the real oldies and it is sad to see him go. We wish him all the best with his study! Mo, who had resigned as Aule on the 20th of June returned to Valinor after a couple of days as a "normal" member, in the shape of Melkor. Loki Teshvara had to lay down her task as admin Varda, Lady of the Stars. We also wish her all the best and hope she will visit us from time to time. With Loki's departure the honour went to Blackrose Bugg, our beloved Sam of the Shire. She is now the new Lady of Stars; a role I think will fit her beautifully. The new Sam is Eamila Bolger and she will dedicate herself to the Shire in her new form. Maiaran Man, our wonderful Librarian passed on his title to the wonderful Ander. MM desired to be a candle again so we wish him good luck with that! Good luck to everyone! By ~~Gwaihir~~

Keep the dream alive