Lonely Star: Fanfiction/RPG discussion - Page 16 - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

***Mithadan*** · 10-30-2002, 12:42 PM

For the same reasons that the Men being escorted out by Khelek would likely be killed if they entered the caverns alone. They would likely be mistaken for guards by the Hobbits. If they stay close to you and the Elves (You may also be in danger, be careful) they will be OK.

Birdland · 10-30-2002, 12:46 PM

Oh. Whew. I was thinking you guys had boobie trapped the tunnel or something. Carry on!

piosenniel · 10-30-2002, 12:47 PM

Mithadan and Bird - I am writing in the meeting of Bird et al coming from the south to meet with us at the front prison entrance.

Scene posted and edited for the zillionth time - I think everyone is in place now:

Khelek and 1 Noldor lead out the Men and Hobbits by the perimeter road. Bird, Gamba, and Azraph, have joined Mith and Pio and are in the main cave

[ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Child of the 7th Age · 10-30-2002, 02:38 PM

I am finally back on line. My house and yard have been totally rewired after nine days of frustration. At one point they threatened to tear down a wall in my house, so I changed the location of my computer. I am now blocking a doorway! But we'll buy a stack table to resolve that.

I am way behind the eight-ball here. Everyone is doing so well. I have added two back posts--one on Candlestones and one on children in the graveyard. I will be adding others tonight. Where needed, I will ask Mith or one of you to paste it in.

I have several questions. At what point in the thread can Cami and her escorts start leading the first groups of children through to the river where the hobbrim wait? How much resistence, if any, could we expect?

I would assume these first trips could be made in silence with few guards there to threaten us. Later, after the alarm, there would be more problems. Is this correct?

Secondly, the hobbits have challenged the guards to a game of Candlestones as a last desperate measure to keep the guards from leaving. Again, at what point in the thread, can we end the game and have the hobbits knock out the 12 candles in the hall and slit the throats of the guards in the main cavern? My competitors are wearing daggers under their shirts.

BTW, I am reposting here the information that Helen left about what the various hobbits were doing. She did say if there were any conflicts with the story line, she'd adjust. But this at least gives us an idea where they would be fighting:

Quote:

Phura will be commandeering the group from the Smithy. Loremaster will be masterminding the escape down to the river from the main cave, directing groups of children and the few remaining old folks. [me: This running down to the river is called "running the gauntlet". Cami will be getting all the children out.]

The sequence will go like this: Phura & co will go to the Smithy and bring out the visors and cheekpieces. (Mith's extra collection of Lonely Star daggers are a;lready available, perhaps?) Then they come back to the main cave, extinguish all the candles except the one in the Study and one in Azraph's fahter's annex, and do in all the guards in the main cave. Simlutaneously, the raids on the tool closets are happening, expecting the influx of guards from the outer doors and openings.

During all of this time, the children have been hopefully huddled in their alcoves, but a few are bound to get loose...

Meanwhile the assault on the locks is underway.

Phura is keeping the road clear from the Locks to the main cave. Tuka & co are keeping the graveyard entrance clear; Gamba was supposed to be keeping the entrance to the new tombs clear, up by the locks, but that's been delegated to... ah... how about Kima and Mika, the twins? Or Corby, the smith?

I do know that Gamba has the key to the Locks. Daisy passed it through the grate to him. There is no way Daisy could unlock her own cell. So it's good Gamba was freed. (Hope he didn't lose the keys in the Dragon ride!) Daisy has the weapons for the other prisoners inside her cell, buried in the dirt. Anee is the other hobbit in the communal cell who is very much into fighting once the folks in there are let out.

BTW, Mithadan, I am going to do an early post of Daisy worrying. She knows Gamba has the key, and then hears about what happened to him. The guards will be discussing it. This is early in the story line. Her worry will be specifically about Gamba and the key.

sharon

[ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

***Mithadan*** · 10-30-2002, 03:10 PM

There are some minor conflicts in Helen's outline. None of the tunnel entrances are held by Hobbits; they are all guarded by Elves. If Phura is to clear out the smithy and mines, this must happen before the assault on the Locks(My post: 10/29/02 at 5:34pm). You have places held back there.

Putting out the candles in the Main cave should occur after Pio and Mith have passed by (after My post: 10/29/02 at 5:34pm) and should happen the second the new candlestones game is over (I assume the guards will lose and turn on the twins at that point). I doubt that all the Guards in the Main Cavern could be slain very quickly. By the time Pio and Mith pass back through the Main Cave, this battle is winding down and the general escape is on (see my post: 10/30/02 at 2:13pm).

You should be prepared to begin getting the children out as the rescue teams arrive (around the time of Child's Post: 10/29/02 at 4:59pm). This will take a while. The wander to the graveyard taken by the orphans should be noticed early so that you will have a chance to get back before any guards try to use that route to access the caves (assuming any do at all).

Send me anything you need to have tacked on to anyone else's posts. If you need help dealing with any of the Hobbit posts, just ask.

It seems the big battles will be at the Locks Tunnel and the Guards' Quarters Tunnel.

Pio- I may add a post after your saved spot for a retreat back to the Guard's Tunnel and instructions to the Elves about the West-side retreat.

[ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

[ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

Child of the 7th Age · 10-30-2002, 03:20 PM

The four orphans are continuing on to the horse pens. Roka will have them go quietly and in hiding. Remember also the fog. They will not be noticed by anyone. However, since they are so small, they will certainly not be able to make it too far. Since Cami has 225 children to get out, the orphans' absence will not be recogized until all the other children have left. Then they will realize there is a problem.

Helen has said that she will defer to you in the outline of the rescue. Make whatever changes you need.

However, I think we are having some problems of omission because Helen is not here, and also because I've had no access to a computer. I know this is going to be a headache but I feel I need to bring this up.

The early planning sessions in the tombs focused on two things: liberating the locks and making weapons. I can easily do a passing out the weapons post and have Mith paste it in at some early point in the rescue. Helen or I can also do an early post regarding Phura cleaning out the guards from the smithy and the Locks (a la Helen). I think this is important. We've followed this character for pages and pages so we should see what he's doing in the rescue.

However, I do see several problems with the way we've structured the Locks. There are big differences between our story line and what actually happened in the rescue. Specifically, that Gamba is not there and that we used the guards' key instead of the ones that the hobbits discovered (Daisy was supposed to pass this to Gamba the last night). Also, Anee did not fight and Daisy did not pass out the daggers which have been smuggled into her.

Finding the keys was a big chunk of the early story line. It was linked to finding the hole to the men's prison as well. If you prefer to keep this version of using the keys from the guards, I will go back and delete or edit all the other posts connected to this (about 5 plus some incidental references elsewhere): 1 post where Gamba found the key in the storeroom, 1 post where Daisy discovered them hidden in the bread and buried them, 1 post to the Hobbit Council where Gamba gives his report, 2 more posts which involved the discovery of the hole in the storage closet and which allude to the question of the keys. There are other posts connected with smuggling in the daggers which will also need to be deleted.

My biggest problem, though, is Gamba. Where is Gamba? He has been working for a while in the Locks and has a personal connection with the people there, especially that old lady Pansy whom he looks at and remembers his mother. Unless he's incapacitated somewhere, he should be back there fighting. (If he's incapacitated, we need to know about it.)

(Remember he is the one in the hobbit meetings who did all the Locks planning and reports.) He has gotten the keys from Daisy through the grate. Their cells were supposed to have been unlocked by Gamba, while you guys took out the guards. Then Daisy was supposed to pass out the daggers which she has hidden in the ground to folk like Anee who are in on the plot.

Please advise what you would like me to do. We need to resolve these differences one way or another.

sharon

[ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

piosenniel · 10-30-2002, 03:43 PM

Sharon - I just edited my last post. Phura and his group at the smithy have encountered Mithadan and Pio advancing down the tunnel running from the main cave to the Locks (and past the Old Tombs and the smithy). The Hobbits have been sent back to join the defense of the main cave, and Phura has been told of the rescue of Gamba and Azraph.

Mithadan and Pio have now secured that entry tunnel to the main cave.

*sniff*

And the poor Elf has a nasty 'boo-boo' on her arm (she is at least not dead so far in this battle!)

[ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

piosenniel · 10-30-2002, 03:51 PM

MITHADAN

Who is retreating back to the guards' tunnel? They are effectively cut off aren't they - from us reaching their positions to speak with them.

Does Pio need to contact the Elves stationed at the New Mines and New Tombs entrances by osanwë to move them down to the south easter section where the guards' quarters are?

Child of the 7th Age · 10-30-2002, 04:12 PM

Pat, Mithadan--

We still have a major problem with the Locks. The rescue, as written, is very different from the many posts we set up the story with. The earlier sections on Daisy and Gamba and Anee in the Locks will be reduced to next to nothing. (In fact we will need to get rid of almost ALL the scenes in the Locks prior to the rescue.)

Please check and advise.

Plus, is there any way we could slow things down slightly tonight through tomorrow afternoon, so I could play catch up?

Sharon

[ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

piosenniel · 10-30-2002, 04:25 PM

Gamba is NOT at the locks. He can't be. He was one of the sacrifices. He is being rescued at the very time we are liberating the Locks.

Pio eliminated the guard and took his key. This is a stealth operation, not an all out assault on the Area. We are too few to do that.

If you will write a post from the Hobbit perspective, I can append it to one of mine as can Mithadan, thereby filling out the Hobbit side of the story.

BTW - the rescued Gamba is fighting now at the heavily engaged northern entrance to the main cave, soon to be joined by his brother.

***Mithadan*** · 10-30-2002, 04:38 PM

Pio, I'm confused. There are no Elves at the New Mines and New Tombs entrances. Those connect to the Main Cave via the Locks tunnel which has been held by us.

Who is cut off from whom? We have sent the Elves who formerly guarded the Locks Tunnel back along the West and we (Pio, Mith, Bird, et al.) will retreat along the East, gathering the Elves from the Guards' Tunnel as we go.

Child, give us what you need to be added in and where and we'll do it. I guess that I'm through for now. So catch up as you can (it has been rather hectic).

piosenniel · 10-30-2002, 04:52 PM

I'll go back and look at my posts - but I believe Pio sent 4 extra Teleri east with the group who was to secure the entrance to the guard quarters. 2 of the bowmen went to the New Mines entrance, 2 to the New Tombs entrance along the perimeter pathway. There are entrances to both these areas via tunnels from the perimeter path per Helen's map.

Found it:

Quote:

Once inside the caverns, Mithadan and Pio broke the Elves into their assigned teams. Five Noldor, two with axes and three with spears, accompanied by four Telerin bowmen, would head east to secure the Guard quarters. To them, Pio gave three of the larger dragon-fires and five of the smaller, checking to see that they had remembered to bring the means to light them. Angara had agreed to go with this team, to hold the bulk of the guards within their quarters. In addition, four bowmen would accompany them and begin to secure the further eastern entrances - two to the New Tombs entrance and two to the New Mines entrance. Six Teleri would proceed up to the River Tunnel to guarantee the safe exodus of the fleeing Hobbits.

I misread one of the posts - they are not cut off from a northeast approach along the perimeter path - the path of Mith and Pio's retreat with Bird, et al.

[ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

***Mithadan*** · 10-30-2002, 05:03 PM

Child, I read your e-mails and think I see now. Anee should be there. They should have opened their cells, passed out knives, killed any guards there, and been waiting for us when we got there. Gamba is not there. He gave Daisy the keys and she buried them in her cell. Otherwise, our posts can stay the same.

Pio, make the 4 Teleri escorts for Hobbits seeking stragglers in the New Mines and Tombs and I think that we're fine.

piosenniel · 10-30-2002, 05:20 PM

I hate to be picky, but . . . how would the imprisoned hobbits have unlocked themselves from their cells? Daisy is in an isolation cell - not one you can reach through the bars and gain access to the lock.(I think it was described that way earlier in the storyline). It only has that small access at the base of it to push food through.

I could have her pass the key out to Kali or Pio. Then she and Kali could unlock the others while Mith and Pio fend off the guards. I think by this time the possibility of sneaking up on the guards with the knives is gone. Anee should go with Kali,Daisy, Gamba, Azraph back to defend the main cave. I can also write that in.

NOTE:

Have edited the rescue post, Daisy passes the key out to Pio. Anee is there. The knives are passed out in a later post, when Bird and her rescued group meet the Locks party.

[ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Child of the 7th Age · 10-30-2002, 06:45 PM

Thanks much for the edits.

Daisy was supposed to pass the key through the grate to Gamba earlier in the evening. Then Gamba would have unlocked the cells while you did the guards in. He never did because he was dragged off.

The post "Daisy worries" is Daisy wondering why Gamba didn't come --one of those I still have to do.

Please see my e-mail on the other discrepency in the dragon rescue, regarding the Study Guard. This one is on Bird's head! She'll have to figure it out.

I love finding these disrepencies and letting other people do the work! If it's any consolation, I have discovered a number of differences in terminology between Helen and myself concerning the kids which I'll deal with when she returns.

sharon

Birdland · 10-30-2002, 11:28 PM

Welcome back to the World of the wired, Sharon.

Regarding the the rescue: I may need to edit it, since I remembered Helen saying there were two halfings and two men, but I forgot about the "friendly guard" being taken. So I threw in the two Faithful, but now I'm kind of stuck with them, since the others have already been rescued.

I can go back and edit the rescue, elimating Gilraen and Rumil (it was too coincidental, anyway), and throw in the guard and one other. I'd just as soon let them either run off into the night for fear of the dragon, or have one already dead from torture, but I don't know if Helen had plans for her guard. I have no idea what those 4 lil orphans were for, so I ignored them. (Sorry, Helen. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] )

Also, I have been trying to follow the directions of where Birdie is suppose to go, but when I pulled up the map Helen sent, the labels on it were all illegible! I don't know why. Anyway, when you say go to the perimeter trail and around to the tombs, or whatever, I have NO IDEA where those are! So thank you for lifting my character's butt out of the fire, Pam.

(I almost wrote a very exciting scene where Birdie and the two Faithful go running down the wrong tunnel, and we all get attacked by a bunch of hobbits, but I didn't have a chance to finish it before work. Dang!)

Anyway, Birdie's had her moment in the sun, so plop her down anywhere you see fit, and I'll "erase" Gilrain and Rumil.

Child of the 7th Age · 10-31-2002, 12:09 AM

Bad news: The continuing saga of Sharon's internet service.......episode 33......This night the cable crashed again in the middle of composing my Daisy post. It's been out all evening. This was after my rewiring of the entire house and yard!

Good news (sort of): A kind person at AOL explained I still had dial-up service. All I had to do was plug in my phone line and change one setting on the computer. Why didn't they tell me this 9 days ago?

Bird--I don't think Helen had anything in mind for that study guard. He could probably be eliminated. Just have him sacrificed.

The 4 orphan kids are another matter. Treat them with kid gloves. They belong to Cami.

sharon

Birdland · 10-31-2002, 12:27 AM

Quote:

The 4 orphan kids are another matter. Treat them with kid gloves. They belong to Cami.

I have no intention of roughing up the little mites. I just don't know if they were intended to follow the Gamba clear up to the temple or what. And Birdie ain't goin' back THAT far in her editing.

Maybe they could give us a chorus or two or "It's a Hard Knock Life" and rejoin the others in the Tombs.

Sharon, you're tales of woe have me seriously rethinking the idea of signing up for broadband.

piosenniel · 10-31-2002, 01:47 AM

BIRD

Let me know what you want to edit - since I put the posts in under my name.

Is there no way the guard could be one of the Faithful? It seems a waste to save him, just to have the life sucked out of him in a fortnight by the sinking.

About your post saver - 'Bird does Something' is that before or after you and Angara torch the whole place? I wanted to know how far to advance the action, since that will be one of the last things before the time shift.

SHARON -

How close are you to being on the ship? Are there several more 'things' you need to do before we post the scouring of the caverns by the dragons and the time shift?

Birdland · 10-31-2002, 01:58 AM

Quote:

Let me know what you want to edit - since I put the posts in under my name.

Since you had us join up with you on the trail, I can leave it stand, I guess. We can hash it out later when Sharon gets to that point in the fan fiction, since if I edit now, then YOU would have to edit your post as well.

Since I don't know what's going into you and Sharon's "saved" spots, I have no idea what will go in mine. It's just a spot reserved to respond to the actions of the other characters. I'm hoping Helen gets a chance to post on the weekend before Angara and I "torch" the place. (Although your "dragon fire" makes are efforts rather redundant. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] )

piosenniel · 10-31-2002, 03:53 AM

There's something in my last post that you could expand on from your point of view of the ongoing battle.

We (Mithadan, Pio, Bird, Gamba, Azraph, Anee, Daisy, and Kali) have come around the eastern perimeter of the prison and are now down in the southeast area fighting the guards in their large guard station/HQ etc. Trying to keep them contained and not able to harass those leaving through the tunnel to the river. Angara is already there along with 5 Noldor and several Telerin bowmen.

I wrote you in, in this way -

Quote:

Angara was there, and even the Wyrm was hard pressed by the number of her attackers. They came at her with long spears, and though she forced them back with her fiery breath, they had just closed in a ring about her. She could not defend against all. And when one craven came at her from behind, piercing her deeply on the leg, she screamed in rage and pain and swept the rear line from her with her tail.

The dragon’s scream and the sight of her beleaguered companion ripped through Bird and tore the human mask from her. Her dragon form came on her then and she came against the horde of attackers rending them with tooth and claw.

Speaking of dragon-fire - I got that idea when you mentioned Molotov cocktail. there is a type one can make which is much like the one put together by Pio and the girls.
had to substitute a few 1st through 4th age ingredients for the actual recipe - but looks like they did just fine!!!!!

Child of the 7th Age · 10-31-2002, 06:30 AM

In terms of actually writing my posts, I am 150 years from finishing. In terms of reserving spaces, I'm done. I've tried to indicate what's in the boxes. Now all I have to do is write them.

Please don't go on to the hobbit choosing till I catch up. I'll probably have a fair amount to post there, so need to be caught up with the rescue.

At least I know I have dial-up service.

Bird, everyone I spoke with claims they've only heard one other story about broadband as disastrous as mine. Now they say it may be the "tap" whih is beyond my yard.

I am thinking of trying the kind over the phone lines. Or keeping dial up and getting a second phone line, if nothing else works.

Thanks.

sharon

***Mithadan*** · 10-31-2002, 09:33 AM

I will be away Sunday and Monday and will likely not be able to post (though I know the hotel I will be staying at does have a broadband TV based internet connection). Typically I do not post on Saturdays either.

While I am eager to see the rescue through to its conclusion, I am also eager to see the remainder of Child's posts. As a result, I will hold off on advancing the action for now.

piosenniel · 10-31-2002, 10:09 AM

I have saved 2 spots before the time shift post in case there are last minute addendums that need to be taken care of.

I'll wait for Sharon, Bird, and Helen to finish all their postings, so that Pio knows who is on board.

Then forward we go!

Rose Cotton · 10-31-2002, 03:16 PM

Wow! Your already on the time change.

Thanks for saving a spot for me Child. I'll give you my post as soon as I can. Oh, and can I ask that you all go no farther then the time change untill I give Child my post? I promise to be a quick as I can.

Child of the 7th Age · 10-31-2002, 03:39 PM

Rose - will send you a pm about that post and what it should cover. You'll want to fit in with Bird and Cami.

Will do that late tonight. It's going to take me a while to catch up.

sharon

Child of the 7th Age · 10-31-2002, 08:31 PM

Just wanted to let you know. For the next day or so, I'll be composing by the seat of my pants on the thread so don't be surprised if you see some half finished garble. I then hope/intend to edit. Will let you know when I finish if anyone want to go back and scan it.

sharon

Child of the 7th Age · 11-01-2002, 01:17 AM

Cami's computer adventure, episode 34......The fourth technician walked into my family room, and spent 10 minutes inspecting the system and wires. He came out and said: "This is really very simple. You need a new cable modem." 12 hours later, with a new modem, my ISP continues chugging on flawlessly. Let's hope there's no episode 35.

Yawn, I am going to bed. I hope to have the rescue posts completed (or close to completed) by tomorrow afternoon. sharon

Child of the 7th Age · 11-01-2002, 01:25 PM

Pio or Mith--

Could one of you cut and paste this? It needs to go at the very beginning of Pat's post on 10/30 at 4:49 a.m., or the end of Mith's post at 10/29 at 5:34 p.m. Thanks

---------------------------------------------

The guards competing with Mika and Corby were no fools. Although they would never admit it, they recognized the hobbits were agile and intelligent. Practicing day after day, their prisoners had become experts at hitting the mark. But the men also knew they had a clear advantage in terms of height and strength.

Makil eyed his companion and whispered something in his ear. The other grinned back and laughed.

"Alright, since the choice of the game is yours, we'll pick out the stones. Also, the place where the contestents will stand."

Corby and Mika suspiciously eyed the men and shook their heads. Some nonsense was afoot, but they would have to go along, and deal with it the best they could.

Makil sauntered over to the rockpile by the side of the cavern and spent a moment sorting through it. Then he selected the four largest stones he could find. These were three times heavier than the ones normally used.

Makil walked back to the line, and surveyed the playing field. "This is far too close," he barked at Azra. "Take the line back twenty paces." The girl complied, hoisting and moving the rock which marked the place where the contestents stood.

"Now, we're ready," The guard stepped confidently forward.

If the stones and playing field had been left untouched, the competition would have been over very quickly. The two guards could not have bested Mika or Corby in a fair game of Candlestones. But this was no fair game.

The hobbits were at an initial disadvantage because of the changes that had been made. Almost immediately, Mika and Corby found themselves trailing behind. But, very slowly, they adjusted their game and crept up in the scoring. By the end of the first round, the hobbits and men were dead even.

The second round began. Guards and prisoners were rivetted to their seats. No bids were made, no money exchanged hands. There seemed to be more at stake than a simple game of chance. Again, Mika and Corby started out behind, but gained ground as the competition went forward. Then, out of nowhere, the two began hitting their stride. They shot down candle after candle, while the guards stared on aghast.

For the first time, the hobbits sitting and watching forgot their fear and remembered pride. They stood up to yell support. Their anger seemed to be spilling out in all directions at once. Several of the younger ones began jeering and taunting the guards.

Makil rushed over to Corby, his face red with fury, and hauled the hobbit up by the collar. "This time, you won't get away," he snarled. The guard snatched a dagger out of his belt, drawing his arm back to strike a death blow. The blow never came.

Instantly, hobbits raced forward to mob the guards. The first to die at their hands was Makil. Other prisoners aimed at the candles lighting the arena, taking them down with stones. Daggers kept hidden were now pulled out, as the hobbits worked together in teams to tackle the guards and slit their throats. Others raced over in the direction of the newly dug garbage ditch, where stakes and sharpened vizers had been concealed earlier in the day. A dozen hands scrambled in the dark to seize weapons that could be turned on the hated guards. The battle for the main cavern had begun.

[ November 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

piosenniel · 11-01-2002, 01:37 PM

I'll cut and paste to the beginning of mine.

Done! [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

[ November 01, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Child of the 7th Age · 11-01-2002, 02:46 PM

Nitir and Pearl had worked swiftly and quietly with group after group. They found their task enormously satisfying. They had watched as the elderly, the infirm, and the youngsters all made their way to the safety of the ships. Mithadan's air bladders and the small rafts woven by the hobbrim had enabled many to reach their goal who could not otherwise have done so. As soon as the main cavern was secure, the more general exodus of able bodied hobbits would begin.

Only a handful of children remained at the mouth of the tunnel waiting for safe escort down the river. But, just as the hobbits were starting the final group into the tunnel, something happened which no one had anticipated. Milo came racing down to Nitir. Azra was with him. She'd stripped off her skirts to reveal a sword and leggings underneath.

Gasping for breath, she leaned against Nitir's shoulder and blurted out, "The battle for the caverns is still going on. But some of the guards broke loose and headed toward the mouth of the tunnel. We've got children trapped there. About six of the older ones. Hobbits are trying to rescue them, but we need help."

"How many guards?" Nitir asked, her heart pounding furiously.

Azra shook her head. "It's hard to say. You can't see much. But I'd say at least eight."

Eight guards, thought Nitir. That was no small thing. "Go ahead, both of you, get back to the children, and start harrying the Men. I'll get the hobbrim to come up the tunnel and help.

Nitir turned and sprinted back to the water, where Andril was waiting. Within a moment of telling her story, five hobbrim had raced onto land and were running up the passageway, with lances in hand.

The children were penned in at the mouth of the tunnel, the Men completely surrounding them. Several hobbits attempting to assault the guards were armed only with swords and sharpened vizers. They swiftly darted in and out, striking blows. They had managed to divert the Men's attention from the children, but couldn't bring the guards down for a mortal blow.

Andril cried out, "Go in with the lances, the lances and the bows. Hobbits clear out." Six hobbits scattered to the corners.

Andril ran in and drew back her arm to hurl her lance forward, as she had done so many times when hunting the great fish of the sea. Then as now, her weapon found its mark. A guard was pinned against the ground, a lance pierced through his side. Blood flowed out onto the floor of the cavern.

The remaining guards raced forward against the hobbrim. Four other lances instantly shot through the air. Each was quick to find its target. Those hobbits armed with swords and other smaller weapons sprinted in to finish off the victims lying on the ground. Still, three guards remained.

Nitir strung her bow and cocked an arrow. It sped through the air and buried itself in the shoulder of a guard. He staggered about to retreat up the cavern, but was met by hobbrim who had now retrieved their lances.

Nitir pulled Andril over. "The rest can take care of the few guards who are left. Go in and get the children, and take them down the tunnel. I know they can swim. Just keep an eye on them in the water."

She nodded her head, "But where are you going?"

"We're missing children, four small children." Nitir explained. "I know exactly who they are, and I have a good idea where they went to. I've got to get outside and find them."

She started heading to the left, planning on inching her way along the wall of the main cavern until she came to the graveyard exit. But, before she could leave, Azra ran up to her. "I'm coming. It's Gamba's brood, isn't it?"

Nitir shook her head yes, but then bellowed, "Azra, stay here. I think I can make it back in time, but I'm not sure. It only takes one to go haul in lost children."

"And what do you think you'll find out there? A welcoming party? You could run into anything! Stop talking, and start moving. We're going together."

Nitir muttered something indiscernible under her breath. Out loud, she only said, "Stay close then. It's pitch black in here."

The two women felt their way in the dark towards the graveyard exit. Once they reached the passage, they had to crawl along the ground. The smoke and fumes were making it impossible to breath. There were only a few Elves still fighting in this area. They paid scant attention to the two small hobbits.

Nitir wondered if she should tell someone where she was going. But then, she didn't really know, and who could she tell? Anyways, it might be better if they said nothing. She and Azra were doing this by their own free choice. No use to endanger others by having them come search for her. Hopefully, they'd make it back. But there was no way she'd board the ship without trying to find the children. Gamba had seen enough misery for a lifetime. She pushed back the little voice in her head which whispered that it wasn't only Gamba who had feelings for these boys.

There was still a single torch burning at the entrance to the graveyards. Nitir grabbed it in her hand and brought it along. The two women ran into the field of death looking for any hint that the children had been there. It was then that Nitir spied the imprint of a shovel which was being dragged erratically on the ground in the direction of the horse pens. They quickly moved in that direction.

[ November 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

***Mithadan*** · 11-01-2002, 04:28 PM

Ulmo's Prophecy strikes at last...

[img]smilies/evil.gif[/img]

piosenniel · 11-01-2002, 05:16 PM

*weeping*

now is the Elf undone . . .

[img]smilies/frown.gif[/img]

Bêthberry · 11-01-2002, 05:26 PM

I cannot take all these saves!!!

*stifles a gasp and holds breathe*

Bethberry [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

Child of the 7th Age · 11-01-2002, 06:07 PM

Mith or Pio,

I need a cut and paste. My post is on this discussion thread at 11/1 3:46 pm

Plase put it in on the end of Mith's post of 10/30 10:17 am or the beginning of Pio's post of 10/30 11:34 am

I still have 2 more posts to get us and the kids back on the ship. Will try to have ready tomorrow night.

Mith, you would leave us hanging over a 3-day weekend. You're a meanie!!

BTW, Pio, regarding your possible demise due to a broken heart, please note that Cami is already adopting the 5 boys. She could not take on your twins. Please stay alive and raise them!!

Thanks

sharon

[ November 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

***Mithadan*** · 11-01-2002, 06:41 PM

Child, cut and paste completed.

Wasn't "Undone" a song from the late Sixties?

Pio, just think, your share in the Star has increased dramatically.

Bêthberry · 11-01-2002, 07:24 PM

Gee, guess who's a follower of Canadian rock.

No words of encouragement for your most faithful fan?

***Mithadan*** · 11-01-2002, 07:36 PM

Not Canadian rock specifically. Just Eighties AOR, Boston style. I don't suppose anyone here is familiar with WBCN before it was bought by a radio conglomerate?

Be strong, Bethberry! Good enough words of encouragement?

Rose Cotton · 11-01-2002, 11:01 PM

MITHADAN- You know that part where Rose jumps for joy then relizes Mith has some medical problems? Well, I'm sorry to say that as soon as Child puts up the post I sent her you will see that Rose will not be able to do that. So if you could change Rose to Daisy or someone else. thank you.

Oh, and CHILD, once again please put that post up as quickly as possible. I know I'm being really a pest nagging at you like this but I can't wait for everyone to see the suprise. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img]

Child of the 7th Age · 11-02-2002, 09:59 AM

Rose--

Check your box for a pm. It should be early this evening. Let me know if you see any problems with what I said. I think it will work great!

Bird, Keep looking on the story for 6 hobbits hitch hiking. We'll be out there looking for a lift by this evening.

sharon

10-30-2002, 12:42 PM	#601
*Mithadan* Spirit of Mist Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Tol Eressea Posts: 3,314	For the same reasons that the Men being escorted out by Khelek would likely be killed if they entered the caverns alone. They would likely be mistaken for guards by the Hobbits. If they stay close to you and the Elves (You may also be in danger, be careful) they will be OK. __________________ Beleriand, Beleriand, the borders of the Elven-land.

10-30-2002, 12:47 PM	#603
piosenniel Desultory Dwimmerlaik Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Pickin' flowers with Bill the Cat..... Posts: 7,779	Mithadan and Bird - I am writing in the meeting of Bird et al coming from the south to meet with us at the front prison entrance. Scene posted and edited for the zillionth time - I think everyone is in place now: Khelek and 1 Noldor lead out the Men and Hobbits by the perimeter road. Bird, Gamba, and Azraph, have joined Mith and Pio and are in the main cave [ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ] __________________ Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.

10-30-2002, 03:10 PM	#605
*Mithadan* Spirit of Mist Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Tol Eressea Posts: 3,314	There are some minor conflicts in Helen's outline. None of the tunnel entrances are held by Hobbits; they are all guarded by Elves. If Phura is to clear out the smithy and mines, this must happen before the assault on the Locks(My post: 10/29/02 at 5:34pm). You have places held back there. Putting out the candles in the Main cave should occur after Pio and Mith have passed by (after My post: 10/29/02 at 5:34pm) and should happen the second the new candlestones game is over (I assume the guards will lose and turn on the twins at that point). I doubt that all the Guards in the Main Cavern could be slain very quickly. By the time Pio and Mith pass back through the Main Cave, this battle is winding down and the general escape is on (see my post: 10/30/02 at 2:13pm). You should be prepared to begin getting the children out as the rescue teams arrive (around the time of Child's Post: 10/29/02 at 4:59pm). This will take a while. The wander to the graveyard taken by the orphans should be noticed early so that you will have a chance to get back before any guards try to use that route to access the caves (assuming any do at all). Send me anything you need to have tacked on to anyone else's posts. If you need help dealing with any of the Hobbit posts, just ask. It seems the big battles will be at the Locks Tunnel and the Guards' Quarters Tunnel. Pio- I may add a post after your saved spot for a retreat back to the Guard's Tunnel and instructions to the Elves about the West-side retreat. [ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ] [ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ] __________________ Beleriand, Beleriand, the borders of the Elven-land.

10-30-2002, 03:20 PM	#606
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	The four orphans are continuing on to the horse pens. Roka will have them go quietly and in hiding. Remember also the fog. They will not be noticed by anyone. However, since they are so small, they will certainly not be able to make it too far. Since Cami has 225 children to get out, the orphans' absence will not be recogized until all the other children have left. Then they will realize there is a problem. Helen has said that she will defer to you in the outline of the rescue. Make whatever changes you need. However, I think we are having some problems of omission because Helen is not here, and also because I've had no access to a computer. I know this is going to be a headache but I feel I need to bring this up. The early planning sessions in the tombs focused on two things: liberating the locks and making weapons. I can easily do a passing out the weapons post and have Mith paste it in at some early point in the rescue. Helen or I can also do an early post regarding Phura cleaning out the guards from the smithy and the Locks (a la Helen). I think this is important. We've followed this character for pages and pages so we should see what he's doing in the rescue. However, I do see several problems with the way we've structured the Locks. There are big differences between our story line and what actually happened in the rescue. Specifically, that Gamba is not there and that we used the guards' key instead of the ones that the hobbits discovered (Daisy was supposed to pass this to Gamba the last night). Also, Anee did not fight and Daisy did not pass out the daggers which have been smuggled into her. Finding the keys was a big chunk of the early story line. It was linked to finding the hole to the men's prison as well. If you prefer to keep this version of using the keys from the guards, I will go back and delete or edit all the other posts connected to this (about 5 plus some incidental references elsewhere): 1 post where Gamba found the key in the storeroom, 1 post where Daisy discovered them hidden in the bread and buried them, 1 post to the Hobbit Council where Gamba gives his report, 2 more posts which involved the discovery of the hole in the storage closet and which allude to the question of the keys. There are other posts connected with smuggling in the daggers which will also need to be deleted. My biggest problem, though, is Gamba. Where is Gamba? He has been working for a while in the Locks and has a personal connection with the people there, especially that old lady Pansy whom he looks at and remembers his mother. Unless he's incapacitated somewhere, he should be back there fighting. (If he's incapacitated, we need to know about it.) (Remember he is the one in the hobbit meetings who did all the Locks planning and reports.) He has gotten the keys from Daisy through the grate. Their cells were supposed to have been unlocked by Gamba, while you guys took out the guards. Then Daisy was supposed to pass out the daggers which she has hidden in the ground to folk like Anee who are in on the plot. Please advise what you would like me to do. We need to resolve these differences one way or another. sharon [ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ] __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

10-30-2002, 03:43 PM	#607
piosenniel Desultory Dwimmerlaik Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Pickin' flowers with Bill the Cat..... Posts: 7,779	Sharon - I just edited my last post. Phura and his group at the smithy have encountered Mithadan and Pio advancing down the tunnel running from the main cave to the Locks (and past the Old Tombs and the smithy). The Hobbits have been sent back to join the defense of the main cave, and Phura has been told of the rescue of Gamba and Azraph. Mithadan and Pio have now secured that entry tunnel to the main cave. sniff And the poor Elf has a nasty 'boo-boo' on her arm (she is at least not dead so far in this battle!) [ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ] __________________ Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.

10-30-2002, 12:46 PM	#602
Birdland Ghastly Neekerbreeker Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: the banks of the mighty Scioto Posts: 1,751	Oh. Whew. I was thinking you guys had boobie trapped the tunnel or something. Carry on!

10-30-2002, 03:51 PM	#608
piosenniel Desultory Dwimmerlaik Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Pickin' flowers with Bill the Cat..... Posts: 7,779	MITHADAN Who is retreating back to the guards' tunnel? They are effectively cut off aren't they - from us reaching their positions to speak with them. Does Pio need to contact the Elves stationed at the New Mines and New Tombs entrances by osanwë to move them down to the south easter section where the guards' quarters are? __________________ Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.

10-30-2002, 04:12 PM	#609
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Pat, Mithadan-- We still have a major problem with the Locks. The rescue, as written, is very different from the many posts we set up the story with. The earlier sections on Daisy and Gamba and Anee in the Locks will be reduced to next to nothing. (In fact we will need to get rid of almost ALL the scenes in the Locks prior to the rescue.) Please check and advise. Plus, is there any way we could slow things down slightly tonight through tomorrow afternoon, so I could play catch up? Sharon [ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ] __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

10-30-2002, 04:25 PM	#610
piosenniel Desultory Dwimmerlaik Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Pickin' flowers with Bill the Cat..... Posts: 7,779	Gamba is NOT at the locks. He can't be. He was one of the sacrifices. He is being rescued at the very time we are liberating the Locks. Pio eliminated the guard and took his key. This is a stealth operation, not an all out assault on the Area. We are too few to do that. If you will write a post from the Hobbit perspective, I can append it to one of mine as can Mithadan, thereby filling out the Hobbit side of the story. BTW - the rescued Gamba is fighting now at the heavily engaged northern entrance to the main cave, soon to be joined by his brother. __________________ Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.

10-30-2002, 04:38 PM	#611
*Mithadan* Spirit of Mist Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Tol Eressea Posts: 3,314	Pio, I'm confused. There are no Elves at the New Mines and New Tombs entrances. Those connect to the Main Cave via the Locks tunnel which has been held by us. Who is cut off from whom? We have sent the Elves who formerly guarded the Locks Tunnel back along the West and we (Pio, Mith, Bird, et al.) will retreat along the East, gathering the Elves from the Guards' Tunnel as we go. Child, give us what you need to be added in and where and we'll do it. I guess that I'm through for now. So catch up as you can (it has been rather hectic). __________________ Beleriand, Beleriand, the borders of the Elven-land.

10-30-2002, 05:03 PM	#613
*Mithadan* Spirit of Mist Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Tol Eressea Posts: 3,314	Child, I read your e-mails and think I see now. Anee should be there. They should have opened their cells, passed out knives, killed any guards there, and been waiting for us when we got there. Gamba is not there. He gave Daisy the keys and she buried them in her cell. Otherwise, our posts can stay the same. Pio, make the 4 Teleri escorts for Hobbits seeking stragglers in the New Mines and Tombs and I think that we're fine. __________________ Beleriand, Beleriand, the borders of the Elven-land.

10-30-2002, 05:20 PM	#614
piosenniel Desultory Dwimmerlaik Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Pickin' flowers with Bill the Cat..... Posts: 7,779	I hate to be picky, but . . . how would the imprisoned hobbits have unlocked themselves from their cells? Daisy is in an isolation cell - not one you can reach through the bars and gain access to the lock.(I think it was described that way earlier in the storyline). It only has that small access at the base of it to push food through. I could have her pass the key out to Kali or Pio. Then she and Kali could unlock the others while Mith and Pio fend off the guards. I think by this time the possibility of sneaking up on the guards with the knives is gone. Anee should go with Kali,Daisy, Gamba, Azraph back to defend the main cave. I can also write that in. NOTE: Have edited the rescue post, Daisy passes the key out to Pio. Anee is there. The knives are passed out in a later post, when Bird and her rescued group meet the Locks party. [ October 30, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ] __________________ Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.

10-30-2002, 06:45 PM	#615
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Thanks much for the edits. Daisy was supposed to pass the key through the grate to Gamba earlier in the evening. Then Gamba would have unlocked the cells while you did the guards in. He never did because he was dragged off. The post "Daisy worries" is Daisy wondering why Gamba didn't come --one of those I still have to do. Please see my e-mail on the other discrepency in the dragon rescue, regarding the Study Guard. This one is on Bird's head! She'll have to figure it out. I love finding these disrepencies and letting other people do the work! If it's any consolation, I have discovered a number of differences in terminology between Helen and myself concerning the kids which I'll deal with when she returns. sharon __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

10-30-2002, 11:28 PM	#616
Birdland Ghastly Neekerbreeker Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: the banks of the mighty Scioto Posts: 1,751	Welcome back to the World of the wired, Sharon. Regarding the the rescue: I may need to edit it, since I remembered Helen saying there were two halfings and two men, but I forgot about the "friendly guard" being taken. So I threw in the two Faithful, but now I'm kind of stuck with them, since the others have already been rescued. I can go back and edit the rescue, elimating Gilraen and Rumil (it was too coincidental, anyway), and throw in the guard and one other. I'd just as soon let them either run off into the night for fear of the dragon, or have one already dead from torture, but I don't know if Helen had plans for her guard. I have no idea what those 4 lil orphans were for, so I ignored them. (Sorry, Helen. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] ) Also, I have been trying to follow the directions of where Birdie is suppose to go, but when I pulled up the map Helen sent, the labels on it were all illegible! I don't know why. Anyway, when you say go to the perimeter trail and around to the tombs, or whatever, I have NO IDEA where those are! So thank you for lifting my character's butt out of the fire, Pam. (I almost wrote a very exciting scene where Birdie and the two Faithful go running down the wrong tunnel, and we all get attacked by a bunch of hobbits, but I didn't have a chance to finish it before work. Dang!) Anyway, Birdie's had her moment in the sun, so plop her down anywhere you see fit, and I'll "erase" Gilrain and Rumil.

10-31-2002, 12:09 AM	#617
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Bad news: The continuing saga of Sharon's internet service.......episode 33......This night the cable crashed again in the middle of composing my Daisy post. It's been out all evening. This was after my rewiring of the entire house and yard! Good news (sort of): A kind person at AOL explained I still had dial-up service. All I had to do was plug in my phone line and change one setting on the computer. Why didn't they tell me this 9 days ago? Bird--I don't think Helen had anything in mind for that study guard. He could probably be eliminated. Just have him sacrificed. The 4 orphan kids are another matter. Treat them with kid gloves. They belong to Cami. sharon __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

10-31-2002, 01:47 AM	#619
piosenniel Desultory Dwimmerlaik Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Pickin' flowers with Bill the Cat..... Posts: 7,779	BIRD Let me know what you want to edit - since I put the posts in under my name. Is there no way the guard could be one of the Faithful? It seems a waste to save him, just to have the life sucked out of him in a fortnight by the sinking. About your post saver - 'Bird does Something' is that before or after you and Angara torch the whole place? I wanted to know how far to advance the action, since that will be one of the last things before the time shift. SHARON - How close are you to being on the ship? Are there several more 'things' you need to do before we post the scouring of the caverns by the dragons and the time shift? __________________ Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.

10-31-2002, 06:30 AM	#622
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	In terms of actually writing my posts, I am 150 years from finishing. In terms of reserving spaces, I'm done. I've tried to indicate what's in the boxes. Now all I have to do is write them. Please don't go on to the hobbit choosing till I catch up. I'll probably have a fair amount to post there, so need to be caught up with the rescue. At least I know I have dial-up service. Bird, everyone I spoke with claims they've only heard one other story about broadband as disastrous as mine. Now they say it may be the "tap" whih is beyond my yard. I am thinking of trying the kind over the phone lines. Or keeping dial up and getting a second phone line, if nothing else works. Thanks. sharon __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

10-31-2002, 09:33 AM	#623
*Mithadan* Spirit of Mist Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Tol Eressea Posts: 3,314	I will be away Sunday and Monday and will likely not be able to post (though I know the hotel I will be staying at does have a broadband TV based internet connection). Typically I do not post on Saturdays either. While I am eager to see the rescue through to its conclusion, I am also eager to see the remainder of Child's posts. As a result, I will hold off on advancing the action for now. __________________ Beleriand, Beleriand, the borders of the Elven-land.

10-31-2002, 10:09 AM	#624
piosenniel Desultory Dwimmerlaik Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Pickin' flowers with Bill the Cat..... Posts: 7,779	I have saved 2 spots before the time shift post in case there are last minute addendums that need to be taken care of. I'll wait for Sharon, Bird, and Helen to finish all their postings, so that Pio knows who is on board. Then forward we go! __________________ Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.

10-31-2002, 03:16 PM	#625
Rose Cotton Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: A place worse then Mordor........School! Posts: 1,075	Wow! Your already on the time change. Thanks for saving a spot for me Child. I'll give you my post as soon as I can. Oh, and can I ask that you all go no farther then the time change untill I give Child my post? I promise to be a quick as I can. __________________ "There's nothing you can do, Harry... nothing... he's gone."-Remus Lupin "The closer we are to danger, the further we are from harm."-Pippin (now how can you argue with that logic?)

10-31-2002, 03:39 PM	#626
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Rose - will send you a pm about that post and what it should cover. You'll want to fit in with Bird and Cami. Will do that late tonight. It's going to take me a while to catch up. sharon __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

10-31-2002, 08:31 PM	#627
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Just wanted to let you know. For the next day or so, I'll be composing by the seat of my pants on the thread so don't be surprised if you see some half finished garble. I then hope/intend to edit. Will let you know when I finish if anyone want to go back and scan it. sharon __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

11-01-2002, 01:17 AM	#628
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Cami's computer adventure, episode 34......The fourth technician walked into my family room, and spent 10 minutes inspecting the system and wires. He came out and said: "This is really very simple. You need a new cable modem." 12 hours later, with a new modem, my ISP continues chugging on flawlessly. Let's hope there's no episode 35. Yawn, I am going to bed. I hope to have the rescue posts completed (or close to completed) by tomorrow afternoon. sharon __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

11-01-2002, 01:25 PM	#629
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Pio or Mith-- Could one of you cut and paste this? It needs to go at the very beginning of Pat's post on 10/30 at 4:49 a.m., or the end of Mith's post at 10/29 at 5:34 p.m. Thanks --------------------------------------------- The guards competing with Mika and Corby were no fools. Although they would never admit it, they recognized the hobbits were agile and intelligent. Practicing day after day, their prisoners had become experts at hitting the mark. But the men also knew they had a clear advantage in terms of height and strength. Makil eyed his companion and whispered something in his ear. The other grinned back and laughed. "Alright, since the choice of the game is yours, we'll pick out the stones. Also, the place where the contestents will stand." Corby and Mika suspiciously eyed the men and shook their heads. Some nonsense was afoot, but they would have to go along, and deal with it the best they could. Makil sauntered over to the rockpile by the side of the cavern and spent a moment sorting through it. Then he selected the four largest stones he could find. These were three times heavier than the ones normally used. Makil walked back to the line, and surveyed the playing field. "This is far too close," he barked at Azra. "Take the line back twenty paces." The girl complied, hoisting and moving the rock which marked the place where the contestents stood. "Now, we're ready," The guard stepped confidently forward. If the stones and playing field had been left untouched, the competition would have been over very quickly. The two guards could not have bested Mika or Corby in a fair game of Candlestones. But this was no fair game. The hobbits were at an initial disadvantage because of the changes that had been made. Almost immediately, Mika and Corby found themselves trailing behind. But, very slowly, they adjusted their game and crept up in the scoring. By the end of the first round, the hobbits and men were dead even. The second round began. Guards and prisoners were rivetted to their seats. No bids were made, no money exchanged hands. There seemed to be more at stake than a simple game of chance. Again, Mika and Corby started out behind, but gained ground as the competition went forward. Then, out of nowhere, the two began hitting their stride. They shot down candle after candle, while the guards stared on aghast. For the first time, the hobbits sitting and watching forgot their fear and remembered pride. They stood up to yell support. Their anger seemed to be spilling out in all directions at once. Several of the younger ones began jeering and taunting the guards. Makil rushed over to Corby, his face red with fury, and hauled the hobbit up by the collar. "This time, you won't get away," he snarled. The guard snatched a dagger out of his belt, drawing his arm back to strike a death blow. The blow never came. Instantly, hobbits raced forward to mob the guards. The first to die at their hands was Makil. Other prisoners aimed at the candles lighting the arena, taking them down with stones. Daggers kept hidden were now pulled out, as the hobbits worked together in teams to tackle the guards and slit their throats. Others raced over in the direction of the newly dug garbage ditch, where stakes and sharpened vizers had been concealed earlier in the day. A dozen hands scrambled in the dark to seize weapons that could be turned on the hated guards. The battle for the main cavern had begun. [ November 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ] __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

11-01-2002, 01:37 PM	#630
piosenniel Desultory Dwimmerlaik Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Pickin' flowers with Bill the Cat..... Posts: 7,779	I'll cut and paste to the beginning of mine. Done! [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] [ November 01, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ] __________________ Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.

11-01-2002, 02:46 PM	#631
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Nitir and Pearl had worked swiftly and quietly with group after group. They found their task enormously satisfying. They had watched as the elderly, the infirm, and the youngsters all made their way to the safety of the ships. Mithadan's air bladders and the small rafts woven by the hobbrim had enabled many to reach their goal who could not otherwise have done so. As soon as the main cavern was secure, the more general exodus of able bodied hobbits would begin. Only a handful of children remained at the mouth of the tunnel waiting for safe escort down the river. But, just as the hobbits were starting the final group into the tunnel, something happened which no one had anticipated. Milo came racing down to Nitir. Azra was with him. She'd stripped off her skirts to reveal a sword and leggings underneath. Gasping for breath, she leaned against Nitir's shoulder and blurted out, "The battle for the caverns is still going on. But some of the guards broke loose and headed toward the mouth of the tunnel. We've got children trapped there. About six of the older ones. Hobbits are trying to rescue them, but we need help." "How many guards?" Nitir asked, her heart pounding furiously. Azra shook her head. "It's hard to say. You can't see much. But I'd say at least eight." Eight guards, thought Nitir. That was no small thing. "Go ahead, both of you, get back to the children, and start harrying the Men. I'll get the hobbrim to come up the tunnel and help. Nitir turned and sprinted back to the water, where Andril was waiting. Within a moment of telling her story, five hobbrim had raced onto land and were running up the passageway, with lances in hand. The children were penned in at the mouth of the tunnel, the Men completely surrounding them. Several hobbits attempting to assault the guards were armed only with swords and sharpened vizers. They swiftly darted in and out, striking blows. They had managed to divert the Men's attention from the children, but couldn't bring the guards down for a mortal blow. Andril cried out, "Go in with the lances, the lances and the bows. Hobbits clear out." Six hobbits scattered to the corners. Andril ran in and drew back her arm to hurl her lance forward, as she had done so many times when hunting the great fish of the sea. Then as now, her weapon found its mark. A guard was pinned against the ground, a lance pierced through his side. Blood flowed out onto the floor of the cavern. The remaining guards raced forward against the hobbrim. Four other lances instantly shot through the air. Each was quick to find its target. Those hobbits armed with swords and other smaller weapons sprinted in to finish off the victims lying on the ground. Still, three guards remained. Nitir strung her bow and cocked an arrow. It sped through the air and buried itself in the shoulder of a guard. He staggered about to retreat up the cavern, but was met by hobbrim who had now retrieved their lances. Nitir pulled Andril over. "The rest can take care of the few guards who are left. Go in and get the children, and take them down the tunnel. I know they can swim. Just keep an eye on them in the water." She nodded her head, "But where are you going?" "We're missing children, four small children." Nitir explained. "I know exactly who they are, and I have a good idea where they went to. I've got to get outside and find them." She started heading to the left, planning on inching her way along the wall of the main cavern until she came to the graveyard exit. But, before she could leave, Azra ran up to her. "I'm coming. It's Gamba's brood, isn't it?" Nitir shook her head yes, but then bellowed, "Azra, stay here. I think I can make it back in time, but I'm not sure. It only takes one to go haul in lost children." "And what do you think you'll find out there? A welcoming party? You could run into anything! Stop talking, and start moving. We're going together." Nitir muttered something indiscernible under her breath. Out loud, she only said, "Stay close then. It's pitch black in here." The two women felt their way in the dark towards the graveyard exit. Once they reached the passage, they had to crawl along the ground. The smoke and fumes were making it impossible to breath. There were only a few Elves still fighting in this area. They paid scant attention to the two small hobbits. Nitir wondered if she should tell someone where she was going. But then, she didn't really know, and who could she tell? Anyways, it might be better if they said nothing. She and Azra were doing this by their own free choice. No use to endanger others by having them come search for her. Hopefully, they'd make it back. But there was no way she'd board the ship without trying to find the children. Gamba had seen enough misery for a lifetime. She pushed back the little voice in her head which whispered that it wasn't only Gamba who had feelings for these boys. There was still a single torch burning at the entrance to the graveyards. Nitir grabbed it in her hand and brought it along. The two women ran into the field of death looking for any hint that the children had been there. It was then that Nitir spied the imprint of a shovel which was being dragged erratically on the ground in the direction of the horse pens. They quickly moved in that direction. [ November 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ] __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

11-01-2002, 04:28 PM	#632
*Mithadan* Spirit of Mist Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Tol Eressea Posts: 3,314	Ulmo's Prophecy strikes at last... [img]smilies/evil.gif[/img] __________________ Beleriand, Beleriand, the borders of the Elven-land.

11-01-2002, 05:16 PM	#633
piosenniel Desultory Dwimmerlaik Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Pickin' flowers with Bill the Cat..... Posts: 7,779	weeping now is the Elf undone . . . [img]smilies/frown.gif[/img] __________________ Eldest, that’s what I am . . . I knew the dark under the stars when it was fearless - before the Dark Lord came from Outside.

11-01-2002, 05:26 PM	#634
Bêthberry Cryptic Aura Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 5,977	I cannot take all these saves!!! stifles a gasp and holds breathe Bethberry [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img] __________________ I’ll sing his roots off. I’ll sing a wind up and blow leaf and branch away.

11-01-2002, 06:07 PM	#635
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Mith or Pio, I need a cut and paste. My post is on this discussion thread at 11/1 3:46 pm Plase put it in on the end of Mith's post of 10/30 10:17 am or the beginning of Pio's post of 10/30 11:34 am I still have 2 more posts to get us and the kids back on the ship. Will try to have ready tomorrow night. Mith, you would leave us hanging over a 3-day weekend. You're a meanie!! BTW, Pio, regarding your possible demise due to a broken heart, please note that Cami is already adopting the 5 boys. She could not take on your twins. Please stay alive and raise them!! Thanks sharon [ November 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ] __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.

11-01-2002, 06:41 PM	#636
*Mithadan* Spirit of Mist Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Tol Eressea Posts: 3,314	Child, cut and paste completed. Wasn't "Undone" a song from the late Sixties? Pio, just think, your share in the Star has increased dramatically. __________________ Beleriand, Beleriand, the borders of the Elven-land.

11-01-2002, 07:24 PM	#637
Bêthberry Cryptic Aura Join Date: May 2002 Posts: 5,977	Gee, guess who's a follower of Canadian rock. No words of encouragement for your most faithful fan? __________________ I’ll sing his roots off. I’ll sing a wind up and blow leaf and branch away.

11-01-2002, 07:36 PM	#638
*Mithadan* Spirit of Mist Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: Tol Eressea Posts: 3,314	Not Canadian rock specifically. Just Eighties AOR, Boston style. I don't suppose anyone here is familiar with WBCN before it was bought by a radio conglomerate? Be strong, Bethberry! Good enough words of encouragement? __________________ Beleriand, Beleriand, the borders of the Elven-land.

11-01-2002, 11:01 PM	#639
Rose Cotton Ghost Prince of Cardolan Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: A place worse then Mordor........School! Posts: 1,075	MITHADAN- You know that part where Rose jumps for joy then relizes Mith has some medical problems? Well, I'm sorry to say that as soon as Child puts up the post I sent her you will see that Rose will not be able to do that. So if you could change Rose to Daisy or someone else. thank you. Oh, and CHILD, once again please put that post up as quickly as possible. I know I'm being really a pest nagging at you like this but I can't wait for everyone to see the suprise. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] __________________ "There's nothing you can do, Harry... nothing... he's gone."-Remus Lupin "The closer we are to danger, the further we are from harm."-Pippin (now how can you argue with that logic?)

11-02-2002, 09:59 AM	#640
Child of the 7th Age Spirit of the Lonely Star Join Date: Mar 2002 Posts: 5,133	Rose-- Check your box for a pm. It should be early this evening. Let me know if you see any problems with what I said. I think it will work great! Bird, Keep looking on the story for 6 hobbits hitch hiking. We'll be out there looking for a lift by this evening. sharon __________________ Multitasking women are never too busy to vote.