The Middle Earth Messenger

September 2004



Message from Valinor Index



I just want to start off this latest edition of the Plaza Newsletter by thanking Gwai and the editors and contributors for all their hard work.

The Plaza has seen more than two years of existence. It had begun just after the Fellowship of the Rings, and has continued past the final film. It's seen many changes and much growth in those short, yet full years. Worlds were created, kingdoms were built. Battles fought. Houses constructed and made into homes. Wisdom and knowledge were gathered and a great library was made. The Plaza has grown tremendously.

There was Eru, the One, who in Arda is called Phil; and he made first the Fanatics Site, the Plaza, that was the offspring of his thought, and he was a member before aught else was made. And he spoke to the early members, propounding to them themes of music; and they sang before him, and he was glad. But for a long while they sang only each alone, or but few together, while the rest hearkened; for each comprehended only that part of the Plaza for which he came, and in the understanding of their brethren they grew but slowly. Yet ever as they listened they came to deeper understanding, and increased in unison and harmony.


There are lots of reasons to be here. The Plaza has many things to do. Any person could find something they enjoy here. Trivia, RPG, Lore, even talking about chinchillas or The Matrix in OOME. That's what gets you here. But it's the people here that keep you coming back. That's where the Plaza gets you. Meeting and becoming friends with others, that's why people stay here, why they come back every day. Why the Plaza's home.

Be excellent to one another.

Protoguy

Valinor coming and goings Index


Into the West … and back East for some!
This has been another month of many comings and goings from Valinor. Sadly, the White Council said goodbye to both of its fine rulers, El (now Munin Audoin) and Philth. Grey Pilgrim (Geep) is now Gandalf, and Arwe Thereyet has been promoted to Saruman. In Mordor, Lulani stepped down, and introduced the new ruler: Rohanna, who became the Witchking, while Loke (name-changing rapidly) stepped into the big boots of Sauron. Also, Laire stepped down from the position of Galadriel in Lórien. Imfalas became Galadriel, and Ecaps became the new Celeborn. As this article went to press, and rather unexpectedly, Wamba the Fool stepped down as Ruler of Meduseld, and Ele Isenfolme was welcomed into the fold of Valinor. Best of wishes to the new Rulers!


By Elanesse

Book of Plaza History
 Index



T he plaza's history is one of great myth, legend and excitement. Since its birth in 2002 it has held many worthy events in the forming of its history. But, as the plaza grows and more members come and go, some of these events are all too easily slipping into the mists of time, to be forgotten about and never spoken of again. No longer, will the tale of Thomas-2000 be recounted by the fireside of Imladris or the legend of Mordor being painted pink be used to delight young plaza members.

However, thanks to an elite group of plaza members, headed by our very own Wedgie and Eouwen, we have an answer which will solve this problem. It is called the Book of Plaza History. This is an initiative for all the plaza's members to post a story or tale which they think should be going down in the plaza's history books.

Like any plaza idea this big and important, the newly erected sign up thread in LOTR Library & Newsletter forum was soon swamped with people posting things like "Can I post my tale" or "Oooh, I've got a fab tale to tell, d'you wanna hear it" and soon we were inundated with articles and stories about every plaza activity imaginable which left Wedgie and Eouwen with a lot of headaches and thoughts such as "What were we thinking!"

However, this project is open for oldies and newbies, regardless of rank or plaza experience. In fact, I was in the thread just last week and I saw Seregon, no sorry, Sere Fëataurie (bloomin' Valie keeps changing her name!) *sees Sere looking daggers at him* "no no. Sere, stay back with that pancake mix. That's it, nice Sere. Good Sere." Anyways. I saw her in there furrowing her eyebrows with her little sparrow frantically trying to finish a particularly interesting article which will no doubt be seen sometime in the near future.

Here is one chosen by our very own Elarith. It is well written and very informative. Read on!

History of the Riddermarket


On the 30th of December 2003, Rohan's very own Riddermarket opened for business. As stated in Fëawen's opening post, 'the purpose of the Riddermarket is to provide a fun place where we can interact with other members by role-playing what it would be like to have been involved in the everyday activities of life in The Mark.' To stay true to Middle Earth, all shop proposals had to be selling goods that would have been available to its people. Shop owners could be of any rank or race, as long as they had a little background knowledge of the wares they would be providing, giving the Riddermarket great variety in its traders.

The original thirteen shops did not prove unlucky, and the market thrived as visitors flocked from all over Middle Earth to buy the various wares on offer. Shops included Taethowen and Culfinwen's Awesnis Gaerwe aegaerr Naedlprica (Essence Clothing and Needlepoint) for garments and clothing repairs; Holt Leod (Wooden Song) owned by Daewyn and selling assorted musical instruments; An Entwife's Garden run by Munchikinka to sell flowers, plants and even shrubberies; and Gold Ge Eorcestan, the jewelry shop. For those wishing to purchase groceries, Slitan Bur supplied a wide range of meat; Tree_Hugger's Se Hlaf Hus bakery provided bread and other goodies; and Penny Lytscop's Tea Shop sold, you've guessed it, tea.

The idea of apprentices was introduced not long after the Market opened, giving more people the opportunity to help run the shops and provide much needed tea and biscuits for busy owners. Apprentices were limited to two per shop, and allowed shops to stay open when owners were away.

Over the coming weeks, the Riddermarket grew as more shops were completed. Sicilius opened Crete Lið, a shop selling wines from all over Middle Earth, joining the Second Skin Saddles and Tack shop owned by Ereidemiel Norvegwai and Sulvitari's Liðefot , amongst others. As of September 2004, there are 30 shops up and running.

Various events have befallen the Riddermarket since its opening. In February, a horrid stench (rumoured but never confirmed to have arisen from Fëawen's cooking) afflicted the Market, causing patrons and merchants to cover their noses as best they could until it drifted away. A couple of months later, a terrible spring storm rolled in and soaked all and sundry, leaving piles of oozing mud in its wake. Barely a fortnight later, towards the end of April, Laedenmangere Fëawen generously donated baskets of her own carrot muffins to the shopkeepers of the Riddermarket, whom then disposed of them as quickly as possible using whatever means necessary. However, the carrot muffins did appeal to some - a great horde of badgers swiftly descended, lured by Fëa's creations. Both merchants and patrons alike had a busy day getting rid of the furry menaces.

In early summer of 2004, various sightings were reported of a suspicious stranger hanging about the Riddermarket. No one was able to apprehend the man, until the Rohan Cavalry was called to one sighting and the entire Market was locked-down until the stranger was found. Sensing he was trapped, the man took Vanyahiril, owner of Pen and Ink, hostage inside her shop. With the Cavalry surrounding the shop, the stranger came out and was negotiating with the First Marshal, Sicilius, when he was struck dead by an arrow. Vanyahiril was fortunately unharmed, and with the lock-down lifted, life in the Riddermarket returned to normal.

Not long after Eléowyn became Ruler in early June 2004, she chose to step down from her Lædenmangere's position in order to have more time for her Kingdom-running duties. All involved in the Riddermarket were sad to see her go, but her replacement Penny Lytscop has proved herself more than worthy of fulfilling the role.
By Tari Boffin

More of Lore
 Index


The Power of Pity
Pity and mercy both have their place in Tolkien's world. In elvenpath's excellent thread The Power of Pity, the idea is that this powerful emotion can be used to turn good to evil, as evidenced by this quote from LOTR: "Yet the way of the Ring to my heart is by pity, pity for weakness and the desire of strength to do good" and evil into good in dealing with Frodo's pity of Gollum., and it results in quite a debate between Enid and Endilion in determining the validity of pity and mercy both in real life and in the story. Many of their situations that involve pity are brought up in the course of the thread.

elvenpath herself brings up the story of Eärendil and also of Aulë and how Eru allowed the Dwarves to remain through pity: "God spoke to him in anger, but not without pity: for Aulë had done this thing not out of evil desire to have slaves and subjects of his own, but out of impatient love, desiring children to talk to and teach, sharing with them the praise of Ilúvatar and his great love of the materials of which the world is made." (Letter #212)
Just as the thread is moved to Ad Lore it turns to whether or not LOTR overemphasizes pity. That in a "real world" the people who pity others might well have been taken advantage of. And after all, sometimes pity is not desired or welcomed: Éowyn specifically told Faramir "I desire no man's pity." Indeed Tolkien seemed to advocate pity as there are many examples of it throughout the books. It adds another layer to the stories and gives us one more thing to discuss.

Advanced Lore Highlights of the Month
Allegory, source and analogy - This thread attempts to differentiate between allegory, source and analogy, as specified in the title. It begins by defining each of these three terms and moves on to discussing how each of them may have affected Tolkien's work.

Tolkien's intention for Dec 25 and March 25 - Alongside being known as Christmas and the Easter weekend, these dates also hold significance in Middle-Earth. The Fellowship left Rivendell on December 25th and March 25th saw the completion of the quest.

Aragorn's Unbalanced Relationship with Éowyn - Everyone knows that Éowyn felt something for Aragorn but what were his feelings for her? In fact, the question that Quill sets out is: Éowyn did love Aragorn at one point, but did he love her back?

Coriolanus: A Thingolian Archetype? - Tolkien may have disliked the Bard, but some parallels can be seen in his works. In this case, halfir draws a comparison between Elu Thingol and Coriolanus. Both were heavily influence by a woman and both were eventually murdered, for example.

Positive sides of Melkor II - Now in its second thread, this thread attempts to determine if there was anything Melkor had done that could be considered good. Through the first thread quite a list has been assembled and the second thread is looking to

By Nylara

Plaza Wide Competitions
 Index


September has seen lots of competitions for all Plaza members. In addition to the usual Debate Team, Drill Team, etc, we've seen lots of new contests and competitions spring up recently. Pelennor Pigskin is going strong, after a few weeks of competition by the various teams. Fir's Plaza Name Contest recently finished, with the Funniest Names, Best Names in General, and Best Names Overall chosen, and tributed accordingly. Congrats to the winners! Fea's Orange Invasion recipe contest was also judged. Congratulations to those winners as well. In addition to these, there are many more things that go on around the Plaza, and if you're the active Plaza member that you should be, you'll know all about them, so I won't waste your time by talking about them again!

By Elanesse

Inter Kingdom Debates
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IK Debates have been an important part of the Plaza Kingdom activities for around 2 years now and there are four successful seasons behind us. Yes, the official part of IK Debates season IV has finally come to its end and now all that remains is the All-Star Debate hosted in Khazad-dûm.

Although July and August have been rather slow when it comes to debating, (slow considering a very busy schedule throughout the season,) they were still full of excitement and they have given us excellent closure to a very fruitful season. There were three official debates in this time in which the champion of the League was found. It started with two playoffs debates at the beginning of July:

Semi-Final 1: Lothlórien at Minas Tirith ---debating the topic: "Thingol's policies of isolationism were justified", judged by the honorable Blackrose Bugg. It was an extremely close debate match with lots of excitement. Lothlorien gave a fierce fight but last year's champions Minas Tirith were slightly better and received the final score: Minas Tirith 97 - Lothlórien 95. On the other side of Middle Earth there was another exciting match
Semi-Final 2: Meduseld at White Council ---debating the topic: "Denethor: Victim or Villain?" judged by esteemed judge wrestlingdr. The discussions were very in depth and the arguments from both sides were indeed convincing. But in the end the White Council won by a very small difference of 4 points: White Council 77 - Meduseld 73.

Both playoff debates haven't had the standard 3000 word count limit, and debaters really went along with this new rule. It finally resulted with 80 482 words! Just to throw a little comparison here; the word count of "The Hobbit" is 95 611. You can only imagine how much work the debaters put into it and how big a job the judges had to get the results and the feedback up! And thus, with the two teams for the Final chosen, the Championship Debate came to our schedule at July 29th with the honorable masterofjesters as the judge. Mojo decided for the final debate that some word limit had to exist and therefore a 4000 Word Count limit was set. The Debate was hosted in Rivendell: White Council vs. Minas Tirith were debating the topic: "Gandalf was an old fool who got lucky". The debate was a presentation of the finest debating techniques and very detailed and careful rebutting. Unfortunately the White Council team had some issues concerning computer problems that had a small negative effect on their final score. After almost two long weeks of judging and contemplating judge Mojo finally announced the winner; and the official winner of the IK Debates Season IV was Minas Tirith! Last year's champions have defended the trophy with the final score: Minas Tirith 88 - White Council 70. We can surely expect a great celebration to be held at the White City in honor of the great success of their debate team.

Beside the excitement concerning the final Debates a long expected add-on to the plaza has finally been made and Inter Kingdom Competition Forum has became the new home of the IK Debate Headquarters.

September has been a month when the location of debating has changed. The IK Debates have played second fiddle to the debate within the Debate HQ. When Season IV has successfully come to an end, big off-season discussions were held in our HQ. Major changes have been proposed, some of which would even change the very structure of Plaza Debating. Few things are certain, the deadlines are going to be increased, and concessions in case of a late post will be less strict. The main goal of these changes is to make the Debates more accessible to people's busy schedules. Last season many teams had various problems with late and missed posts and we are hoping how now these problems will be less frequent or even totally non-existent.

But besides the discussions about the rules, the closeness of this Season's All-Star Debate match can be smelled in the air since it has been scheduled at September 7th. We are hoping how this time it shall be possible to hold it because few last times when the date has been set we had problems because many people who were supposed to participate couldn't because of many Real Life constraints. After that debate the start of the season V will be announced. And through some calculations of mine I believe the start will be at the beginning of November or even at the end of the October. If you are interested in what's going on in the debate HQ visit the current thread called: "Debate you I can, yes, mmmm"

As you know the Inter Kingdom Debates have almost entered into their fifth season, and it is now that a new idea for debating on the plaza has been presented: The Junior IK Debate League. The original idea was put forth by Jakle of the Shire way back in the third season but not until now the idea was realized. This would be a new generation of plaza wide debating with a very different concept. The Jr IK debate league will be a trimmed-down version of the Big IK's, sort of like a "minor league", and it will enable people to "get their feet wet" with debating. There will be less pressure and fewer rules, and it will be geared towards helping young debaters get experience before moving towards the big IK league. The Jr's are intended for people new to debate, not just younger people or newbies on the plaza. Jr Debates will not be reserved only for people who are a part of Kingdoms but for new souls too. Teams will not be formed dependent upon what Kingdom are you in; they shall be like in the All-Stars, and people from differing Kingdoms may participate in debating activities.

The Jr Debate Game Masters have agreed that the following quote shall be their mission statement:"Eönwë came among them and taught them; and they were given wisdom and power…" (Silmarillion, Akallabêth)".The Jr debates sign up threads will hopefully be around October the 1st. The sign up threads shall be located in the Basic Lore forum and perhaps in Middle-earth People & Races. The actual competitions will be held in the newly created Inter Kingdom Competition Forum and later, if possible, in the Kingdoms. The finalization on the rules and everything about the Jr's is still in progress but we expect to finish up rather soon. And now, I invite all of you plazarians, who are willing to try out plaza debating but somehow never did it in your Kingdom, to join us and sign up in the threads which shall open in a week or so.

By Fingolfín

Interview with Rohanna
 Index


How often have we seen interviews of admins and rulers? Very often. It is rarely seen that we actually interview "regular" Plaza members, but starting this month that's about to change. The "regular" members are what help make the Plaza thrive, and it's time they get their recognition! This month's interview is of a female minion named Rohanna, who has been a member of the Plaza for 11 months and is currently Witchking, ruler of Mordor.

How and when did you discover the Plaza?

hmm, September of 2003 (don't remember the exact date) I was searching for piccies of Éomer to drool over I think

Which Kingdom did you join and why?.

I joined Rohan as soon as I had 20 points, and while I know this sounds cliché, they just have always been my favorite people in Tolkien's writings. The Rohirrim kick butt and are no-nonsense, not to mention they have Éomer.)

Exactly! Have you ever switched kingdoms and why?

I switched to Mordor, mainly because they had a very dynamic ruler at the time, Mo, and because my inner evil just couldn't stay hidden any more in the beautiful green plains of the Riddermark.

What forums are you most active in and why?

Mordor of course, there's nothing like a little evil to keep the soul happy; and KD, because the dwarves are slightly evil and a lot of fun. I venture into the movie forums often and occasionally PaFF looking for victims, er… I mean stories to review for the papers I write for..

Speaking of stories...which paper do you write for?

Well I'm editor and also write for GRaBT, the Magazine of Mordor. I write for the Mirrormere Reflections (KD) and the Last Homely Herald (Rivvy). I used to write for the Raedboda when I lived in Meduseld.

What activities are you involved in on the Plaza?

Too many! :-P Let's see, I participate in racing, drill team, am a member of the Dwarven clan that are food lords, so I do a lot of cooking and menu making, I am the Pub Wench of the infamous Mordor Pub, I am helping to write a little of Mordor's history, I am co-chairing the Mordor Olympic Planning committee, Black Sage of the Garrison of Cirith Ungol and I'm sure some other stuff that I've forgotten. I like to stick my nose in a lot of different places from time to time.

 Sounds like me,are you a member of any houses then?

LOL, funny you should ask. I think I'm working on the record for houses on the plaza. I've found that if you co-own you are unlimited, so I currently am a regular member of 3 houses, own the GRaBT house, and am co-owner of Cirith Ungol, The House of Ill-Repute, GRaBT II, giving me 7 houses to work with at the moment. Leave it to a minion to stretch the rules! My three houses I am a member of are Mo's house, the Void, Hoth's house something about Derndingle, and my first house in Rohan, the Fréablod estate

I think I'll keep that useful bit of information for me too...What are your short term Plaza goals?

Well short-term I would honestly like to have a chance to get back to more fun stuff. I enjoy the creative writing aspect of RPing, like in my clan thread. I'm not a good writer of stories and poetry and I do not get along at all, but I do enjoy coming up with some good posts in an RP sense (had a lot of fun with a beauty pageant in KD recently)

 Are there any particular debates to you that stick as being very interesting or that have introduced to you a different way of thinking about a particular issue?

Not debates- threads. The magnum opus that Elwing and I and many others completed on the Rings of Power (five threads now in the archives and still the best treatment of the subject on the Web) certainly honed, developed, and changed my views on that subject- and rectified my major lacuna regarding the Ring verse!

 I wish you luck with that...similarly, what are your long-term goals?

Long-term, I would like to see Mordor become the most dominant kingdom on the plaza. I think we can do it! One against 8, ain't we great?

 Thank you so much for your time, anything else you'd like to add?

Hmm, just to say thanks for thinking of me, and to hope everyone else on the plaza enjoys it as much as I do.

I'm sure they do, I know I do! Thanks again for your time!

By Twin Demon

Poetry Corner and Fan Art
 Index


O n a peaceful hill overlooking the Plaza, beneath a shady tree, sits Tom Bombadil, the lovely Goldberry, Gleowine and Old Took. These are the Maiar for the Poetry and Fan Fiction Forum Threads. If you've not taken the time to visit this idyllic corner of our Plaza, you've really missed out. The display of talent there is truly incredible. This reporter was quite hard put to choose from among the excellent poetry and stories. It's truly a library on its own, with reading to satisfy nearly every taste from adventure and battle to humor, satire, and romance. We are fortunate to be able to share the gifts of our Plazamates.

I would like to introduce some changes amongst the Poetry Maiar, Ishkamitul was promoted to the rank of Daeron, while Gerontian resigned his position as Old Took. We wish them both well on their journeys on the Road.

This month's poem was chosen by Araweth.

Cubism

 Your soul is dodecahedronic and desolate

You cried and carved a space behind
Your eyes for starved square of mankind.

And when you cry is it a circle you see in me?
Ordinary evermore.
No end.
No beginning.
You would never say
SPEAK!

For your heart looks like a hexagon to me

by Eliswathe


I've chosen to highlight five Threads that seem to me to epitomize what the Plaza is all about. Buried between the threads of stories, poems, and drawings are the "Get Your" threads.

Signature Tags by Weny
Get Your Characters Drawn Here
Get Your Icons Designed Here
Get Your Cover Art Design Here
Get Your Name Designed Here

These threads embody the true spirit of the Plaza. The artists involved are too many to name in this article, but each and every one of them is taking time to freely share a talent that they love with anyone who requests it. You will be amazed and impressed with what you receive upon requesting. Even if you don't want something done yourself, just scroll through the thread to find a dazzling, inventive, and unique gallery of Middle Earth expression.

For those of you who prefer to trust a more experienced opinion on the cultured side of the Plaza, the Maiar have a thread they call the "Recommended Reading" thread right at the top in the introduction. At the very least, you must check this out. Our Plaza is populated with abundantly talented creatures of every race, and the enjoyment you receive from sampling the fare at the Poetry Corner and the Art and Fan Fiction Forum Threads will last you far into the day.

By Garnet Took


Learn to draw
Tabi Geinin's advice on how to become an artist.

Junior lessons #1


Welcome young trainee of pen and pencil! Welcome to the first of many junior lessons on how to learn to draw. Onto this lesson! You will learn basics that are needed to master the pencil. In future there will be 'masters lessons'. But now let's focus on the basics. WELCOME TO MY WORLD

*Equipment*
The Most Important thing in order to draw is .... a pencil, yes you got that right. As for the beginners it should be good for them to use automatic pencils and in this lesson they will learn to master this sort of pencil. There are two important types of pencils - 0.05 mm Very useful if you want to draw small details. Do not use to draw shadows. It is hard to erase. - 0.07 mm Useful if you want to draw large shadows, using quick moves. You will use this one most of the time. That would be the equipment.

*Lines*
Shortly. The 0.07 mm pencil is for drawing large and dark lines, 0.05 mm is for drawing thin lines, be careful with this pencil since it's hard to erase it when you push too hard onto the paper.

*Clue no.1*
If you are starting your journey with a pencil, it will be useful if you use two pieces of paper during the drawing; one onto which you will draw your picture and the second as a support. Whilst drawing, try to hide half of your drawing with clean paper, so that your hand will lay on the clean piece of paper. This will help you not to erase the picture with your hands and will teach you how to raise your hand in the air during the drawing.

*Clue no.2*
The second piece of paper, the clean one, can be also used as sketch-book. When you want to draw small details, for example runes onto weapons, it's good to stop for a while and draw different kinds of details onto the clean piece of paper.



During these lessons we will be learning to draw trees, clouds, nature and animals. You will learn how to sketch and how to draw shadows. Onto the masters lessons we will be learning everything about the men.

G'day until next time Lesson #2 Figures-foundation of art

By Tabi Geinin


Two years ago...
 Index




O n September 8, 2002, the mighty Eru himself welcomed all lovers of branch and leaf to the newest plaza kingdom, Fangorn. No immediate rulers were named, but two admins at the time, CheesyPoof and Engwaduriel, were named as temporary watchers of the kingdom (obviously the threat of fire from Mordor was in the back of everyone's mind). The place was immediately spammed up by members from other kingdoms oooing and ahhhing at the beautiful frameart of the Peegmeister, but would anyone actually become an Ent?

To get the boughs rolling, Engwaduriel opened a contest thread to name the various locales around the forest. Many Ents joined in, as well as a few other races and one viney administrator! Another hasty thread was "Your Previous Race?" which apparently proved that escaping from the foofoo of Rivendell was an adventure many had undertaken. Lulani, formerly of Rivendell, continued on her journey to join every kingdom on the plaza (Rivendell, Mordor, The Shire, Fangorn, and now White Council, that this reporter knows of,) by helping the unhasty Ents spread their leaves. Collecthor moved from the White Council and onward to Entish greatness. Even a hobbit named Frodo joined the Ents for a time before taking his hairy feet back to the Shire.

And in the lovely spirit of the young plaza, anyone could open a new thread, hence many threads with the question "how do I join Fangorn?" This intrepid reporter dug through the woodpile, and found Fangorn's first-ever pub, a lovely log cabin with a constant cool breeze, and a river flowing swiftly downstream. Sounds like the ex-elvsies were trying to remind themselves of home doesn't it? Drinks included Sapwiser, Premium Soil, Entwash, Green Leaf Tea, Ent Draught, Beechbone special, Screaming Ringwraith, and Telperion Mist. (Nice to see the loggers recognized the superior quality of Mordorian cocktails!) A unique twist to this thread was that the 100th poster got to open the next pub. One can imagine what chaos that led to: minions opening pubs in Fangorn; twigs trying to figure out the intricacies of copying and pasting; - and shudder at the thought of a dwarf being the new pubmaster! The Ents must have been quite dry and their bark parched, as at least four pubs were opened within days of each other.

If you are a curious sort, you can pull up the archives and compare Fangorn of then to Fangorn of now. If you actually have a life though, just take my word for it, the new kingdom was opened with much fanfare and many happy trees!

By Rohanna

Through the Keyhole
 Index


In the Shire, in a lovely rural setting not too far from Hobbiton, is the small village of Needlehole. Endymion, Lórien of Valinor, and his lovely fiancée Prisca Boffin, Warden of the Shire, have chosen to build their home in this rustic spot. The home is a 10-room Mansion , with lovely old furnishings. Endy and Prisca welcome visitors with open arms. As befits a Hobbit dwelling, the Kitchen is the heart of the household. Prisca's warmth and generosity makes a visitor feel instantly at home. There seems to always be a fresh apple pie waiting to be served and jolly company with which to share it, and if Prisca doesn't have in her kitchen what you're craving, she'll likely make it just for you! 'Tis more than worth the hike out to Needlehole to visit these two leading citizens of the Shire.

This correspondent happens to be a Hobbit, so the following article took an inordinate amount of courage!(joking)

One of the most mysterious and fascinating creatures in Middle Earth are the Ents. Taking a peek through the keyhole into the Kingdom of the Ents proved to be a delight. This teeny little reporter clandestinely visited Silver Leaf's independent palace, the Entmoot of FriENTship . Of course, it had to be a palace, anything smaller would not accommodate the great Ents! The Entmoot of FriENTship is located on the edge of Fangorn Forest. Slipping into the pub, the Glittering Glade, is an exercise in serenity. The folk there are peaceable, and this reporter had a lovely time observing the laughter and friENTship. Throughout, Silver Leaf has been abundantly complimented on her place, and this Hobbit would certainly like to add her glowing report to the throng.

By Garnet Took

PLaza Truth or Dare IC
 Index




Minas Morgul was the setting for Round 2 of our truth or dare game. I even allowed that silly Rivendell elf to leave her imprisonment in the Barrow-Downs to join us. I'm not sure a trip to Tower of Black Sorcery counts as a vacation from eternal bondage, but it really is lovely in the moonlight.

Seated in a circle, around a small table with a black flame candle sitting atop an Elven skull, the brave players were asked their second question, the answers of which were compared to show the true nature of the 9 kingdoms. What is even more interesting than comparing the different races is comparing what the word "holiday" means in the different parts of Middle Earth...

If you could create a holiday, what would it be?


Búrzbag (Mordor): Well they say that Valinor is just dreamy at the moment. They have the surf the sand and the edible residents, or so I'm told having never been there before due to it being exclusive, but I like being exclusive.

Ultchuk (White Council): Mmm, that would have to be Old Grishnak Ale day. I could imagine just after the holiday season is over and we start fresh and new with the pub cleaned, to taste the young Old Grishnak Ale that just has left Mordor Breweries.

Firien (Lothlórien): My holiday would be Firien day. On that day all would pay homage to me and honor my name. All would come to me bearing gifts and great riches and place them all at my feet. In return I would smile at them, and occasionally wink. Oh what a day it would be.

Eithil (Rivendell): The best holiday would be a holiday in Rivendell. It's a place of rest, relaxation, and song, and there's something to suit everyone (even Dwarves) there! On the other hand, we don't really want hordes of Dwarves and dirty mortals descending on the Last Homely House, so maybe Lothlórien would be a better answer.

Ranlindë (Khazad-dûm): Me and me man roasting a boar in Erebor's vaults. *sigh* And NOT on dragon's breath! (Always on about her man isn't she?)

Tari Boffin (Shire): I would have to create a holiday for gardening, where nobody worked and everyone stayed home and tended their gardens in peace all day. Of course then there'd be a party later with lots of food and ale!

Éoarod (Meduseld): Se Mearas Freols - a festival to celebrate our beloved Mearas. It would have to be days long to pay proper tribute to them as they are our very lives.

Munchikinka (Fangorn): *Peachy saleslady's voice* A trip around Middle Earth with all your favourite stops including Mount Doom, Bree, Rohan, Minas Tirith, Isengard, and Rivendell, with a free tour of the hobbits' journey to Mount Doom. Souvenirs include 'Stings' which glow when minions approach, rings, tiny figurines of Treebeard and Fimbrethil, and miniature Gollums which yell 'PRECIOUSSS' when you poke them.

Hoyamir (Minas Tirith): I would create a day to honor the Faithful - our ancestors who refused to turn their backs upon the Valar and the Firstborn despite the Dark Lord's best efforts. Because they kept their faith, they were spared from the downfall of Númenor, and their legacy lives on in men and women throughout the Reunited Kingdoms, from the Elessar himself to low-born farmers and merchants. Their actions are definitely worthy of praise and remembrance.

Ya, ya, ya, boy those Gondorian men are just loads of laughs aren't they? Seems like everyone passed this round without taking the dare! A pity really. Just remember, do not come between the Nazgûl and his prey. Not that these lovely gameplayers are prey, no, really they aren't, really! (If you don't see them around the plaza in the future, I am not responsible, really....)

By Rohanna

Support the Plaza Index


I became a supporting member because I always had a sneaking fascination with caryatids. No, not little green bugs that look like leaves and say "screek screek screek" on your windowsill all summer. Nor am I referring to genetically modified carrots. Caryatids are columns carved to resemble people that stand around holding things up. Things like roofs, or elaborate Elven facades carved with swirly bits, or the plaza.

So much for the architecture lesson.

The thing is, we're all caryatids. Some people support the plaza by patiently answering language and lore questions like "who is Tom Bombadil?", dispensing useful info to the newbies who haven't gotten a chance to beat these topics to death (last I heard, the consensus was "a wingless balrog named Thingol who was married to a dwarf"). Others help fans in the movie forums by tracking down the blonde bloke in the prologue of FOTR who bears an uncanny resemblance to Legolas (Ben Britton, playing A Random Elf of No Known Significance named Fereveldir). Still others supervise all the countless contests, RPGs, games, guilds, armies, torture pits and sewing circles that make the kingdoms the colorful and vibrant procrastination resources they are. Then there's the admins and rulers who keep the whole mess organized, and clean up the messes. Finally, there's everyone who keeps the plaza going simply by participating. The great thing about the plaza is that we can support it by having fun. But fun doesn't run entirely on volunteer effort, so some members also chip in to pay for the server. It's just one more form of support.

I support the plaza, because in the last ten years, I've never seen any other online community that's so well-organized, able to offer such an overwhelming number of opportunities to every sort of Tolkien fan, from the Legolusters to the lore fanatics. I have thoroughly enjoyed the roleplay, discussions, and friendships I've shared here during the last year and a half. I will do what I can to make sure all that continues, both for myself and for everyone else.

There's one way you can thank the caryatids, not just the official supporting members, but everyone who puts effort into helping the plaza work. Participate. Explore. Look for ways to get involved. Find a thread, a discussion, or an activity you like, and really throw yourself into it. Read what other people have posted. Add a post that others will enjoy reading, and can build upon. Like any sand castle, the more you play, the more you work together with your fellow sand castle addicts, the better it will be. So please, have fun!

Because caryatids need something wonderful to hold up..

Anonymous

Kingdom Reports

Index


Ramblings from Rivendell


Well, this will (probably) be my last kingdom report before I put away my pen…er, keyboard, find my zimmer frame and hobble off into the realm of oldies and simple Newsletter-readers…unless the bribe is right, that is *g* Anyway, on to Rivendell and this month’s happenings. First, the SCRs – three were awarded this month…Thorond became Elladan, Serveanthesia became his twin, Elrohir, and Ellenan is Gil-Galad of the dirty face for a month. The twins quickly acquired a fan club of giggling elf-maidens, which they are unlikely to escape until the ranks change. Either way, congratulations to all three!

This month saw the opening of Bangad Imladris, the Rivendell market, selling all manner of crafts made by the elves of the Valley – weapons, scrolls, carvings and much more! Most of them have by now been sold, but the Market is to become a regular feature of Rivendell, with different wares each time, so keep an eye out! Also this month, Riv saw a break from its Feasts (pubs) for a few weeks…luckily for any visitors, they have just restarted to coincide with the Enedhoer Festival!

But what, you might ask, is the Enedhoer Festival? ‘Tis an autumn festival, and this year the elves of Imladris have chosen to celebrate it with many threads and activities, each one open to all residents of Middle Earth and beyond! Some games of skill, some of chance, some a combination, there’s something for every visitor, thrill-seeker and daredevil! Some are based mainly on chance, such as the Barrel Race down the Bruinen, or the Horse Race from Bree to Rivendell, while others are decided by answering questions of Lore and/or RPG skill, such as the Obstacle Course. A woodcarving contest and cooking contest are also to be seen, for those who prefer slightly less exhausting entertainment. Please do drop by and visit!

Also seen this month was an ELP clinic, something rarely seen on the shores of Arda in this Age. Filled with randomness, pyromaniac elves and a healthy dose of oddness, any and all sensible elves stayed faaaar away for the protection of their health and sanity. Most, however, didn’t. Rivendell is still, luckily, standing, though, so not too much damage was done!

Survivor: Middle Earth saw two elves, Aredhel and Nurbor voted off, leaving a mere six tribemembers left to compete for the title of Ultimate Survivor…in what has to be one of the longest-running gameshows in Plaza history! Spectators are, as ever, welcome, although the game won’t restart until after Enedhoer is finished. The Racing Team and its cheetahs finished their season with a total of 2 wins, 2 draws and 5 losses, and can proudly claim that they didn’t finish last! Unfortunately, the same will probably be hard to claim in the Derby race run over the last two weeks…but, well, someone has to finish last, and great fun was had by all our racers!

Hope to see you visiting Rivendell in the near future!

By Eithil

Index


Attack of the Foo-Foo - Khazaddum Happenings


Foo! Pink! Bunnies! Flowers! FOO! I come to you with grave news from the stone halls of Khazad-Dûm. The kingdom has gone foo-foo. Some say that it is the leadership of Hrive, notable queen of Durin’s Folk with an almost elvish obsession for pink; but I think that the problem is not so high up and in the mind of one who is much more devious. I would now point your attention to the ever scheming, rolling pin wielding, knitting needle prodding, Ranlinde. Although this report is entirely unfounded, I believer her to be the root of the foo, “problem.” An underground movement has been started in Khazad-Dûm to reform the knitting circle ( Khazad-Dûm is split down the middle in opinions about this magenta fetish. Pink sightings, to show the support of the foo-movement, have occurred all month, the most notable being the great bunny parade in honor of Tangled Axe and the painting of the queen’s thrones pink. (Culprits not yet apprehended in the case of the pink thrones. If you have any information please contact the queens. Messages can be left at the Burx Uzban headquarters.)

In more reddish news, a certain dragon mage flaunted his devilishly handsome snout-like face around Khazad-Dûm this month. Meneldil came with four princesses (Adara and Aldura, the imp {real name not yet discovered, get back to us on this}, and Mai Tai) in search of people to go and fight his ex-wife, the demon-like golden dragon currently known on the street as Sunny. Maidens were soon dazzled and promptly employed as demon hunters while suitable fighters were soon lured from around Arda. The assembled group left from the Mirrormere using high-tech gadgets and pillars. Reports place them currently wandering the jungles of Rhun.

Mirrormere Reflections (Khazad-Dûm’s only monthly digest) has got brand-new digs, and man! They are smokin’ to say the least. Star Flower opened them up with pride and even gave the hard working reporters a bribe of freshly baked muffins if they signed up for articles. One has got to admit, she's a sneaky one!

Khazad-Dum pubs have changed, and whether it’s for the better or worse has yet to be decided. The craggiest little rock of a dwarf ever to be born has been employed by the Burx Uzbans as bar maid. She now haunts the Burx establishments, looking a bit like Freyr Strongart, and keeping a wary eye out for spam. Beware! If you are looking for a shoulder to cry on make your way to the current mex restaurant and burden a likely shepherdess with your woes, for Grunda Graniteheart, ex-berserker trainer has better things to be doing, like polishing the glasses for future customers.

On a sadder note, the kingdom has suffered a loss this month it will not soon forget. A troupe of orcs delivered Edain’s(KD’s favorite drunk and Dis’ mother) and Tangled Axe’s (famous berserker and Dis’ son) bodies in sacks to the throne room. An air of dread disturbs the kingdom and dwarves quietly pray to mahal that Dis will be kept safe; someone has an obvious grudge against her family.

Anyways, I have blathered far too long about the happenings of my rocky kingdom so for your sanity, I’ll just quit now. May your beards ever grow longer and you axe ever be sharp, or your pink bunny costume never fade… whichever suits your fancy!

By Mithriltears

Index


Shire News


September began with many exciting new additions and changes in the Shire. Despite being a simple place with little change, the Hobbits are actually changing quite a bit. The Periannath Walking Club is going on its first-ever walking tour to the seashore. They are headed straight from the Shire to the Gulf of Luhn. This journey to the sea will be equipped with sights many Hobbits have never seen before, and are sure to bring some excitement.

The Shire Knitting Circle reopened after a long summer closure. The doors were opened to all, and included an updated system as well as a cleaned out hobbit hole. The designers, menders, and shoemakers of the knitting circle would be more than happy to work on anything for those who drop by. The talented knitters and shoemakers are always ready for business. Besides openings though, the Shire Pony Center remains closed for the time being. Renovations there are taking longer than some expected, though they expect to be open before the year ends. The Ivy Bush Cooking Organization also announced a new temporary closure this month. It seems that they have some very serious cleaning to do in the building and it might take a while to get it all sparkling again! The Hobbits and foreigners can look forward to their reopening as well before the year ends, hopefully the building will be fully stocked with fresh foods as well.

Dear Rosie has been reorganized and revamped with a new leader, ~Rings, as well as several new correspondents. Any problems relating to Animals, Clothing, Beauty, Foreign Affairs, Health, Food, Relationships, Phobias, and Parenting can be submitted in the Shire. The correspondents are quick and excited to respond to any advice they receive.

Besides, the many openings, closings and revisions to current Shire activities, the Shire’s Drill Team is also recruiting and looking for new members to join it’s ranks. The clever hobbits need plenty of help!

However, help is also wanted in planning the Shire’s Great Harvest Fair. Autumn is coming, and with that the harvest comes as well. The Fair is planning on having lots of music by the Shire Fire, costumes made by the Shire Knitting Circle, as well as lots of vendors and food from Ye Olde Village Shoppes, the Shire’s market. There will be an Art Exhibition as well, followed by a Harvest Ball at the end of the night, where the best artist will be chosen from the Exhibition. A Shire Poets Society poetry thread will be opened as a contest for the fair; the winner of the contest may sing his or her song or poem during the ball as the opening dance. All hobbits are called to help with the planning of this huge event!

Marigold Took, a famed Hobbit among the best ever seen in the Shire, has had to take a leave from our Middle Earth. Her time is more limited now and although she regrets to leave, she cannot be expected often. She will not be around very often if at all anymore. Marigold was a wonderful hobbit, with the Shire for over a year. She had many contributions and was a beautiful poet. This Hobbit was one of the best, and most dedicated, and will be greatly missed!

At Marigold’s leave, another threat to the Shire came abruptly upon the Hobbits. Mayor Rosie Cotton was kidnapped by two mysterious Elves from the Mayor’s Office, one late afternoon. However, a quick call to the Shire Watch’s Shirriffs from Mayor Samwise interrupted the kidnapping and the mayor was brought home safely back to her adoring Hobbits. It seems that the Shire’s new Watch organization is very successful at the beginning of its career, keeping pub goers under control, as well as thieves in the Market. It seems that all is at peace again in the Shire. Next month we can look forward to the Great Harvest Ball!

By Tari Boffin

Index


Another Month in the WC


Ah, have you come again to read about the fabulous Kingdom of the Istari? Well, gather round, because I have a lot to tell you. First, of course, is the departure of both of our Rulers, Elen Sila, and Philthrandir. Now, Grey Pilgrim has taken the Rank of Gandalf, and Arwe Thereyet is our new Saruman! My heartfelt congratulations to both of them, and I am sure they will make good Rulers, both of them! To see the departure of Philthrandir, go here. ; and for Elen Sila.

I guess we could call that the main topic of this month, but of course, more things have happened! For example, this season’s Debate Team has been called together, and practice debates are being held. Captain is Minun Audoin, formerly known as Elen Sila (and Elen Audoin). Let’s hope things are again going as last time that would be good!

Also, the King of Karaoke is on! If I have counted well, 31 contestants are given a subject they have to make a parody about, choosing a ‘Real Life’ song, and altering that to make a parody about their subjects, these subjects have been made by the spectators. I will give you an example, to see what kind of task they get:
Six Beleriand Parody the Nazgul as if they were surfers - (based on Fean ZâramUzbad's suggestion) br> So, if you want to read some funny things, I suggest you go there, when the contestants have turned in their assignments!~
Also, an announcement was made about a Tribute to our former Ruler, Elen Sila, and it turned out to be very beautiful!Look here. Just to thank her for being such a good Ruler (which she was!), and to show her we all love her! (which we do!)
Want to look in a Wizard’s diary? Well, you can now! Head to the Orthanc Almanac thread, and there you can read some extracts of Wizard diaries!

By Denethor II

Index


Minas Tirith


Gondor has been busy again this month. After a small decrease last month the pace of posting we once again reached the normal amount of posting each day. The Kingdom is now near to 4000 members, and last time the Reporter looked, they had 3968 members for the Kingdom. That is a lot, and we’re only beaten by Rivendell so Hûl Gondor!

A sad going in Minas Tirith this month. Rinon Encaitaro left us, and it was a shock for every Gondorian. The ever-so-loyal Pub master of Gondor left us because of school, band work and other RL-projects. We wish the loyal Gondorian all good luck with his RL, and hope that everyone does the same. ’Take care Rinon, and come back!

But while we see the great Gondorian leave, we get other famous Gondorians to come back. Altura Flet, a former Gondorian arrived back from Meduseld, and the Gondorians were happy to have him back. Another one who needs mentioning was Niphredil Arien, which came to Gondor, posted ten posts, and left again.  And we don't stop here. Mauwurz, a former Minion left the Black Pits and came back to us when we needed him. There are quite a few newbies joining Gondor also, so keep up, Gondor!

Special threads this month should be many, so I’ll start with the classic pub of Gondor. 'The Wayfarers Inn’ is a great place for every Gondorian and stranger to come and meet the fellow Bartender of Minas Tirith. There are Pub masters there as well, and Arteris and Finduilas Fael and the resigned Rinon have been great, so keep up the good work, fellows!

The great IK-RPG called 'The Southern Storm & Northern Wind' is one of the first IK-RPG's ever besides the Last Alliance, and Gondor is proud having that in their own Kingdom. The Reporter cannot write the facts about it, but we recommend every Rohirrim and Gondorian Ranger to post in the thread. It is fun, and the newbies can learn a lot about RP...

The Special Ranks has been given out this month, and the lucky ones were: Øyvind (Faramir), Erlend  (Boromir), Daelin  (Denethor II), Umbardacil (Anarion), Excaliur (Isildur) and Tia Galodanel (Elendil). It was no new Imrahil this month, since Devin kept his Icon. Congrats to everyone...

With the New Special Ranks up and go, we have the Retro RPG's again. Faramir, Boromir, Daelin and the special invited Imrahil has begun, and its name is Foreshadows Every race is allowed to play, but they have to be Rangers in the thread.The other Retro RPG is Resistance in Romenna. There you have to be a Númenórean to sign up, so come on in!

By Øyvind

Lothlorien
 Index


News From the Golden Wood


It’s been an interesting month in Lothlorien… but what do those mysterious galadhrim do all the time? It seems they practically never leave the Wood! Some of the Golden Wood’s oldest activities, the Gardens of Lorien, Nimrodel’s Trivia Glade, and the Lawn of Lorien, all of which are open to visitors from all realms of Middle-Earth, have had a smooth month, though rumors of a food fight breaking out in the Lawn recently have spread like wildfire. However, nobody was hurt too badly and all had fun.

Meanwhile, the Guard tournament, the Champion of the Trees, has wrapped up, and the four divisions of the Lothlorien Guard have teamed up to facilitate a noble quest of twofold purpose; Galadriel’s silver polish, Celeborn’s hair brush, and directions for use of Galadriel’s mirror were discovered missing. Galadhrim are currently searching for the missing items whilst teaching prospective guards and young elves the art of RPG

Lothlorien’s many teams have all been working hard this past month: the Pigskin team has been practicing hard since the team was organized. The racing team has been keeping their foxes in shape, while Quentalmo and the debate team have been studying and quizzing each other.

The Architecture, Poetry, Music, and Writing Guilds, which were recently moved from the Guild house into the Lorien kingdom, are thriving under a few talented guild masters and guild mistresses. Since their re-opening, the Guilds have sponsored some very successful contests.

One of the most notable changes that took place this past month for the galadhrim was the resignation of a certain Galadriel, Laire, and the promotion of ecaps - http://www.lotrplaza.com/forum/profile.asp?profile=46748, a well respected elf of the Wood, as Lord Celeborn, while Lady Imfalas became the new Lady of Light. The new lord was received with open arms by all, and he will no doubt perpetuate the kingdom’s greatness. Congratulations ecaps and Imfalas!

The Golden Wood’s SCR’s were announced in the first week of the month. In honour of their dedication to Lorien and hard work, Callowynne, Eresse, Fingolfin, Samuraielf, and Sulrin received special characters. They are each more than deserving; congratulations all!

Lastly, it came to be seen just a few days ago, that the Lord Celeborn was unexpectedly kidnapped in his sleep by three mysterious kidnappers! It has not yet been discovered what Celeborn’s guards were doing at the time, but it was reported that the lord fought bravely. Nonetheless, rumor has it that he was shoved into a lime green bag and taken to the kidnappers’ lair, and there shoved again into a cupboard. The ransom note left for the galadhrim stated that a throne usurper was left in place of the lord, and demands were placed for Celeborn’s safe return, though as it stands, he has not yet been reinstated.

The Golden Wood of Lothlorien, despite its semblance of quietude, has been busy, and will become busier as the season fades. Peaceful company and travelers are always welcome, so do visit if you are in the area.

By Lairewen

Index


What's Up In Rohan


Summer is slipping away, but the dedication of the members of Rohan who keep Meduseld alive and kicking sure isn’t! Some activities come to an end, while others are just starting up. And off course, who can forget the activities that have been around forever and are still running strong? Meduseld is bursting with RPGs, pubs and things to do!

Our new permanent pub, the Ældsel Inn is doing fabulous as Eldrith and Ama continue to strive for a fun, friendly atmosphere. And they’ve gone far beyond that, for they have created a home away from home for the faithful Riders, and for foreign visitors. In “Ældsel Inn: Old Rohirric Wisdom”, members were challenged to give each other words of advice all night long! In “Ældsel Inn: the chaperoned pub”, Getale and Cnith’s mothers were visiting to make sure that members behaved accordingly. One could not hold their love’s hand without being yelled at! In “Ældsel Inn: the rainy night”, the rain came down in buckets as members of Meduseld escaped the streets into the warm, cozy pub. It was a night of songs, poems, stories and laughter. In “Ældsel Inn: After rain comes sunshine”, the pub was held outside as the sun was shinning and the sky was blue! In “Ældsel Inn: to catch a thief...”, the pub has been robbed! Who could’ve done it?

In IK Rat Racing news, Rohan sadly lost the final three races against Gondor, Fangorn and Mordor. However, three racers Mairuanna, Vana and Fyliwion were invited to The Race of The Champions, a big honour. Make Rohan proud, guys! Also, the Derby has begun with all kingdoms racing in teams of ten at once! Go Rohan rats! What fun, a great way to wind up an awesome season of rat racing!” These two end of the season races are new this season, and will hopefully become permanent in every rat racing season.

An 'Intra Kingdom Debate Competition is being held in Meduseld, so that teams can be formed for the Debates as well as for the Jr. IK Debates. The rules have been made less strict so that aspirant debaters can train themselves without too many constraints. The topic currently being debated is “Who was more crucial to the victory at Helm’s Deep, Théoden or Gandalf?”

In RPG news, Lác in Ælemiddeland V has finally ended, with Wildfire as the winner! No wonder she’s a minion, tricksy player. *Wink* Exiles of Rhun is still running strong, GMed by Esta! In “Marriage Mayhem-- Eowyn’s Nutty Nuptials”, the Riders are asked to help Lady Eowyn prepare with her wedding and house decorating! In “Rohan – The Family Vacation Place!!!”, Riders are working hard at making some Rohirric attractions for tourists. The Riddermarket is still running as usual, and Pelly has recently bought the Armour Shoppe. In Cavalry news, Gondor has lit the beacons, and the Riders of Rohan have at last arrived at the White City. What devilry is behind these cold winds and relentless attacks? Thought the Riders are away from home, they still have a makeshift pub, the White Boar Tavern!

The 'Campain has resumed its activity as well, and seven geoguths (young warriors) are training under the supervision of their duguths, in the old hay barn of Edoras. They are making regular and constant progresses, using daggers, dirks, and of course, the ultimate Rohirric weapons: swords and spears. Training also involves fighting in unusual situations, like on a log over a stream! Beware of the cold bath…

In Guild news, the Art Guild is still running strong, with even more beautiful creative drawings! The 'History Guild of Meduseld opened its doors on the day of the summer solstice, and has gotten through a tremendous work during the fine weather. The Guild’s motto, “Myntan, Raedan, Awritan” (Think, Advise, Write), summarizes very well the atmosphere reigning in the candle-lit room that hosts the guild. The purpose of the Guild is to compile a detailed history of Rohan and its people, by splitting up the work in small group, using Tolkien’s works as well as secondary sources. The guild members have already composed a very detailed sketch of Rohirrim history, from the first days of the Éothéod to the days of Thengel, Théoden’s father; they now plan to review all that has been said and wrote in order to present a complete, accurate and unbiased history of Rohan.

The 'Raciendas þæra Talu Meduseld’s Lore Guild, keeps on training for the Inter Kingdom competitions, as well as discussing various Rohirrim-related topics. The latest topic brought up was “What would have happened had Boromir lived?”. Many aspects of the subject were discussed, ranging from “Would Éowyn still have married Faramir?” to “Would Boromir have accepted Aragorn as his king?”, leading to the conclusion that Boromir is a key-character of the War of the Ring. In order to sharpen the team’s skills for the approaching season, a 'Practice Drill Match was held against Lórien; a match during which Éoarod and Pengolodh asked questions alternately. The very high level of the questions and the length of the off-season are the only reasonable explanations for the final score: Team Med 2 – Lórien 4

The Rohirrim were slightly disappointed when they found out that no SCRs were to be awarded in August, for the rulers needed to change how they chose SCRs. Part of the idea was to ask all riders in the thread “Who Would You Be? – All Riders”, who they would want to be. This way, the rulers could keep who received an SCR a surprise, even to the person who received it! This month’s SCRs are Eilonwy Mearas as Théodwyn and Eldrith as Lothíriel. In “At the court”, these two Rohirrim have a chance to role-play their characters in daily Meduseld life at the royal court!

        
Eldirith          Eilonwy Mearas's


Thread updates: The picture thread is on its 14th thread, a new post office has opened (Riddermark Ærendgewrit- Postal Postings), The Show Ring is on its sixth thread, Rohirriddles is on its 11th thread and Gædrian of se Mark is on it’s 16th thread!

What else is new? Check out our currentRead.

By Twin Denom and Gem

Index


News from Fangorn


The seasons are changing in Fangorn, for the forest celebrated its second birthday on September 8th. There is much celebration and cheer, and many activities are in play. First off, Fangorn’s favorite friend, Achoo (Collecthor), hosted the game ‘Entwood Squares’. Achoo has hosted this game for other celebrations, such as Lithedays, but this is the first time the game did not end in a tie. Team O, consisting of Brethilonod, Niennor, and Yucaliel, was able to get a tic-tac-toe. Congratulations Team!

Another game being played for the celebration is ‘Entish Word-Branching’. The game is an entish version of the real life game, Boggle. A special pulb was opened by the Treegarth and Tree Guard. The only problem is that the birthday cake is missing. Will they be able to find the cake before the party begins? Let’s hope so; you can’t have birthday party without a cake! Ents all around the forest are bringing their squizzels for a fun birthday race

These squizzels are having fun racing toward (or backward in some cases! ahem…) the finish line. The Tree Voice is planning a special edition with the articles from the very first newsletter from Fangorn, and favorite articles picked from other past editions. The Ents and visitors from all over Middle Earth have had a full month celebrating Fangorn’s birthday.

Big news comes from the Treegarth. Fangorn’s protective force has been split into two. The Treegarth is the main defense, while the Tree Guard is the offensive for protecting Fangorn. The two branches of the Treegarth are the ‘Watchers’ and the ‘Sleepers’. They protect the borders and the inside of the forest. The ‘Front Herders’ and the ‘Ranged Herders’ are the two branches of the Tree Guard. They go beyond the borders and will attack to make sure Fangorn is safe. Both have started training their recruits.

‘Listing the List’ has continued with Lanthir’s return. The goal of this activity is to come up with a list that Treebeard started in “The Two Towers” of all the animals in Middle Earth. Lanthir gives a riddle of a creature, and then the participants figure out the creature and give the answer in the form of verse, generally four to five syllables, with the free peoples of Middle Earth getting more syllables. Lanthir picks the best verse (the one she feels goes along with the original the most) and also the most original verse. Points are given, and the top three will have a chance at putting the list together into a big poem.

In Brief Morim has declared “No more leafings”. Too many Ents lately have been turning into dwarves, men, and elves. Ents need to stay home and stop turning into other creatures.

The Fangorn racers and their squizzels won 1st place in the IK League Races. Congratulations racers (and squizzels, too)!

Thief hunters are busy looking for a squizzel, the item he stole, and where he hid it. This squizzel is tricky and good at hiding stolen items. If you have any information regarding this thief or the item he stole, please inform a shepherd immediately.

Though the borders are always being watched, peaceful visitors are always welcomed in Fangorn. Please come to our forest and visit soon.

By Lavinia

Index



News from the Black Lands


There is a new ruler in Mordor,Rohanna!, bringing with her a new way of running things. With the sudden retirement of Lulani, Sauron of Mordor the whole Kingdom waited with bated breath to hear who her replacement would be. Rohanna has stepped up to the plate and is playing the role of a slightly gender-confused Witch-King (pssst don?t tell her I told you that *wink*) displaying to one and all just why she was chosen for the position. Congratulations to Rohanna for being the best female Witch-King Mordor could ever have wished for.

This month has seen the revival of some old and truly dead threads. The Breeding Center, renamed Spawn of the Underworld, has been given a new lease of life under the guidance of Winddancer. This is the breeding center for Minions to come and order an animal tailor bred and trained to their specifications.

Winddancer has also been crowned Minion of the Month for September. She is one of the most respected people on the plaza and has been very influential in Mordor during her time here in the Dark Lands. Windy is often seen answering questions in the Newbie Spawning Pool as well as in the Newbies & Introductions Thread where there is no question she can?t answer for those young flames just finding their feet here.

The Dear Troubled Tyrant Office has seen a makeover with two new writers being appointed as letter respondents. Narv and Smaug the Gold have given many a minion, some out-of-towners, and even a passing Admin advice on how to handle their problem or simply to just get over their ego and come back down to the dirt with the rest of us.

There are a couple of competitions underway this month. The Lava Snake Fighting contest has entered the Semi Final stage with two minions, a dwarf and a wizard battling it out to reach the grand final. It will be a very interesting battle in the finals. Will Mordor claim the title? We?ll just have to wait and see.

Mo, Morgoth of Valinor, is running his first Mo?s Mordorian Tag Team Story Contest, aka MMTTSC, a writing contest with three teams of 5 minions each writing chapters to a story given to their team by Mo. With each chapter being over 500 words each, and 10 chapters per story, this battle is looking hot. The teams are showing that Mordor really is home to some great writers. It will be good to read each story as an entity when they are finished.

Have you ever seen yourself as a singer but has never had the chance to show the world how good you are? Then we have just the place for you. Come along to the Devil?s Choir, corrupt and sing us one of the listed Prince songs. There are 20 points up for grabs. You never know, this might just be that once in a lifetime break. You?ll be kicking yourself if you miss out.

By Firefly

Sane, Saner, Zaniest Index


Well, it's time for another spectacular edition of the "fun" newsletter section, and this time, for everyone's reading pleasure, I, Devin the Magnificent, have agreed to write it. I am of course the funnest, funniest, and best looking person around. So without further adeu, I present, to you, the Sane, The Saner and the Zaniest!

Right, we all know the Admins have a few screws loose, but somehow they keep it together for the plaza. Although it seems like their completely focused, a new in depth look at the behind the scenes has been unveiled. If you can see through my shameless built up hype, you know that I am talking about Valinor Quotes. Although I'm too lazy to go more in depth, I'll provide you with a sample:

Ally: Manwë comes in and huffs and puffs and blows the wind chime... "Sorry, filling in for the big bad wolf since the little pigs saw him off.
You can find more of these quotes right here . Have fun with that, and remember that they only make jokes and quote themselves 85% of the time. The rest is for work, I think.

Ok, next up on the crazy list is a little thread from the hills of the Shires, yes yes, it's true, short folk are funny sometimes. I am shocked myself really, but the show erm article, must go on!

Some of you may have heard of Caption Contests, some of you may be blind, deaf and live under a rock in Figi. Whatever your situation, I'm sure we can all share a laugh at the Hoppit's 11th Caption Contest.
You can find the entire thread by clicking this inconspicious link in the brackets (link) or by digging through the Shire pages. I am running out of clever sentences so I'll just give you the winning caption and be on my way.


Frodo: I see dead people! - Lobelia Boffin

Ah yes, a famous quote from a movie, put into a Caption Contest. I think the 5 points she earned was well deserved. 5 points?! I know you can't put a price on Hoppit Comedy, but sheesh, that is pretty low. Anyways, one last final goodbye from me before I get assasinated by Brandybuck and her batalion.

GOODBYE.

By Devin



Greetings and Welcome! I am Madame Weny! Here to predict the Plaza future and foresee some of the amazingly funny things around the Plaza!

Come into my tent and we shall gaze into my crystal ball.

Ah yes! It is becoming clear now. I see Valinor Quotes. It seems that our Administrators have been touched by insanity. Our dear Pip has collected some of their more insane moments for posterity. Madame Weny predicts the men in white coats will be coming for the R/A team very soon! I also see the Dwarves have decorated part of Rivendell Pink..

Yes! The clouds clear once more and I see ... festivals and pigskin for one and all! I also see a new administrator in the PaFF forums and a sad farewell to our own Gerontian … Now let me see …

Ah! If you are a Gondorian who has recently joined the cavalry, beware! I see much pain in your training. To an elf in Lothlorien with blond hair and blue/green eyes ... someone is your secret admirer! Elves of Rivendell! I see that the dwarves will leave something valuable behind on their next visit! There is a hobbit in the Shire who will move to the White Council in the following month ... and as for Mordor … beware! I fear that the other Kingdoms plot something big for you very very soon!

The crystal has clouded ... I must rest! Until next time!

By Weny


Searching for Treasure Index


Digging through the Plaza Archives


I n the Plaza newsletter's never-ending quest to bring its readers the full story, this intrepid reporter searched the ancient tomes from July/August of the plaza's 1st age (2002) to see what "treasure" there was to be found. I soon came upon the "War" threads in Rivendell. Those obviously superior, uh, I mean the Minions of Mordor invaded the House of Elrond, and I what follows is a sampling of the superior quality of this RPG. Please keep in mind that the entire war lasted only 3 days, encompassing six threads of the tastiest spam and goddiest moding the plaza has seen. Here are some tidbits, and yes, I do consider it my civic duty to embarrass the rulers, ex-rulers, admins, tribute rank holders, etc., involved in this! (Posts have not been edited, so the typos, etc., are not the fault of the Newsletter!)

Monday, July 1, 2002:
Elnarsil: Leads a part of his troops ahead in order to finish the cave troll in hand-to-hand combat while the others keep providing support by firing arrows at the minions. Seeing that the troll is turning around to strike with his club Elnarsil throws a water balloon under his foot which makes him slip and fall down.
Uruloki: *The troll is somewhat bemused by the arrows, they tickle, he picks up the balloon that made him fall over and flicks it at some passing elves, one of them gets a very sore ear
Alkthoniel: *Takes out a water balloon and chucks it at the balrog* I was hoping for someone a bit less ugly lol!
Elenedhel: The Eye... I'm standing in front of you with my sword bare... hello?!
*waves sword at The Eye and throws a couple of water baloons to get her attention*

Those were excerpts from thread 1. Thread 2 and 3 were virtually the same except that thread 3 was almost entirely a discussion of who was and wasn't godmoding. So by thread 4 you would expect us to be a week or two down the road, right? Nope, the VERY NEXT DAY the little spammers continued with their fourth thread: (hee, I really do enjoy calling R/As spammers)

Tuesday, July 2, 2002
Lulani: well, I see that noone is yet brave enough to take on the challenge of more than one balrog... with my fearsome weapons of destruction I come like a virus to you rland...... go forth, smelly pigs snorting for truffles! ruin the white of those elves' raiment!
And then later:
ta has vammoshed off the planet, proabably.. they seek him here, they seek him there, they seek him almost evrywhere, his hair is brown like a teddy-bear....... well, he's probably here now anyway...... will NOONE accept the challenge of the minions? bah, and bah again.... Alkthoniel: *While the troll's asleep, tattoos a moustache on his face. Laughs then calling to the rivendell defense to bring some elvish rope, they tie him up so he can't move...*
Uruloki: doh, the trolls pretends he is still asleep, Alkthon turns her back and the trolls uses the solid rock edge of his arms to cuts his binds, he rises to his the unsuspecting elf whistle some horrid elvish tune, Uruloki produces a pair of huge trimmers and chops all the elfs hair off in one sweep, she screams out so he gives her a wedgie as well before pulling out his broad sword......

And two threads later (but still the same day, July 2)
Aredhel: *At the moment when all hope looks lost for Dae, Aredhel comes riding in with a force of Lindon Elves at her back, and together, they turn on the Troll, and thoroughly hack it to pieces. Aredhel turns to Dae* Sorry I'm late. You wouldn't believe the amount of bureaucratic diplomacies I had to struggle through to get them down here. Now that we've finally arrived, we're at your service.
Uruloki: ((occ you could have said the troll realised he was buggered and ran away, now i am dead, thanks a bunch))

By thread 5, and July 3, 2002, things had become even more organized:
Lulani: well, I'm here on a peace-ful(ish) mission, basically to find out if the war is over, who won, etc. as noone answered the dwarf. also, are you preparing a battle like the one of the free peoples against mordor in a last hope??! because isildur's not here to help you this time.... bwahahahaha. mordor has become quite strong, though I say so myself
Faenen Êlmegil: ::sits down and cleans his armor and sharpens his sword::
::waits for battle to start up again::
The Abhorred: *TA is surprised to see that so many still are at the battle field. "Well, what`s going on, no fighting? Is this battle finally over. And who won? Hi Lulani, nice to see you here."*

Pleasant minions? God-moding elves? They actually continued to debate whether or not the war was over for one more short thread, for six in all, giving credence that those who wrote the Imladris Convention rules should be worshipped indeed...

By Rohanna

Samwise Gamgee…and racecars? Index


In an interview with one of our more modest plaza rulers, Eamila Bolger, who is Samwise Gamgee, she revealed many a secret to me. Unfortunately I didn't get the chance to ask her about her Star Trek interests, perhaps that will have to be saved for another interview. However, here are all the secrets I did manage to reveal.

1. Tell me about your trips to Africa. Why do you love to do them so much? Where do you go?

Ah... Africa... I have always liked to read about that continent, and see movies about it. Especially the relatively "simple" life of rural people really attracted me. Later I was old enough to see how much trouble people had, and how unfair it was that I had so much, and many of them had so little. After my university time I decided I wanted to go and live in Africa one day, but I needed to get more working experience first. To keep the longing alive, I went to Ghana in 2000, and in 2002 and 2003 I have visited Uganda. There I was the guest of a school for orphans, together with other young Dutch people, and we helped building the school, teaching the children, visiting the poorest at their homes and we had a great time. The children of Uganda have stolen my heart... and I will most certainly come back there... maybe sometime for good!

2. I have heard you have a thing for racecars. When did you get into that in RL? What makes them so exciting?

*laughs* That is quite a story. My granddad used to watch it, and I really didn't like it. But then my best friend got married. She and I lived in the same house, and her husband moved in with her. He was a great fan of Formula 1 Racing; so every Sunday after church I'd hear them get very excited from some strange car sound. So I went up, watched with them... and was hooked for the rest of my life. I cannot really explain what's so exciting about it. Of course there is the start, and the collisions that sometimes happen. But there is also the element of strategy. If you start on pole position (1st place on the grid), you may have stop more often than cars who qualified slower because they had more fuel in their tank. And it's not just the quality of the driver that counts, but also the team behind him. If they make a mistake during a pit stop, the driver may loose places. Or the engine may blow up just when he thinks he is doing very well. In the last race one driver even lost a tire that wasn't attached well enough to the car during the pit stop... There is just always action... and I must say we have the best reporter of the world in the Netherlands... who makes even the boring races a joy to watch and hear!

3. Most of us have heard how you got to meet a few plaza people in RL. Where and when was that? How did it feel to meet the people behind the icons?

Well, there have been two times when I met other plaza people. We have a great Fantasy Fair in the Netherlands every year, where I've met some of the Dutch members and my plaza friend from Belgium, Eldrith. This year I went to the Fellowship Festival in London. That was great too, as I was able to meet some of the UK members, and a few from the continent. It was very exciting to meet those you only know as Hobbits, Dwarves, Elves and even Admins! You sometimes have great age differences that might not be a problem while on the plaza, but you just have to wait and see what it's like in RL. But I found it wonderful to meet others, and see who is behind the icon! Some of those that I met are good friends now actually!

4. What is your favorite thing about playing Samwise?

What I love most is the role-playing. Samwise is a bit shy, but when it comes to being honest, or fair, he really can become angry. But most of the time he is just sweet, and loyal, and tries to be a good Hobbit/friend/husband. I love his character... But equally good it is to be able to do this with Brandy. She and I were friends already through the plaza, and it's great to be able to rule together with her!

5. Who is your favorite Hobbit in the books and why?

That would be Samwise... honestly! Of course (especially when I saw the movies) I thought Pippin was funny in an annoying way, Merry was wise and Frodo was just... Frodo. But Sam is the "simple" Hobbit who never really wanted adventure... but ended up in the middle of it anyway. Sam's friendship, his constant fight against his own fears and doubts that are conquered by his loyalty to Frodo, that's what makes him my favorite Hobbit!

By Tari Boffin