[Child of the 7th Age]

Here is the revised story line with the new and improved outlaws:

Basic Storyline:

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

As if that wasn’t bad enough, the Rangers brought the leaders of the Big and Little Folk an alarming message. Several villages in the foothills of the Misty Mountains had been attacked and destroyed by the Orcs and Hillmen some months before. Now, these folk have migrated westward on the roads, trying to escape the evil forces behind them. Hungry and discouraged, these people have become outlaws, turning to looting and stealing in order to stay alive in this time of dearth. Rumor has it that they are considering something much larger, an organized attack on Bree, hoping to carry off the riches of its merchants or perhaps even to occupy the entire town.

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

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

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How does this sound?

Tara -- according to my storyline, there is no initial agreement among the outlaws whether to destroy Bree and seize its riches, or take it over and occupy it.

Is the latter realistic, or not?

If it's not realistic, we need to remove it.

If it is realistic, perhaps we don't want to stipulate now which of these two options will win out. That could play itself out in the story.

What do you think?

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Just a reminder .....we still need to decide about the fire.