Required for All: Geography of Arda

[Nenya Evenstar]

In one of the many sparkling white stone buildings of Heren Istarion, Nenya Evenstar, the Teacher of Geography, sat in a chair. On either side of her were two chairs which in turn led two more chairs and so on until a circle was formed. Beside her was a small stack of what appeared to be papers, drawings, and other devices of like sort. Nenya was searching through a stack of similar appearance which lay upon her lap.

A clock chime broke through Nenya's concentration. Looking up towards a clock which was hanging upon the wall directly above the door opposite her, Nenya stood up. After placing the papers in her lap upon the top of the stack beside her chair, Nenya walked through the small room towards the door. Her students would be arriving any minute.

****************
OOC:
- This class will not start until each student has posted his/her arrival.
- Try to your upmost ability to have good grammar, spelling, and punctuation in each post.
- Be creative.
- All your posts must be IC. If you have any OOC questions, post them in the format I have shown here.
- I will be critiquing each individual post.
- Please do not take offense because of any correction I give you. I am not trying to pick on you: I am only doing my job in this guild.
- Feel free to correct me if you find anything wrong with something I have posted! I am far from being perfect myself and am sure that I can learn a lot from you all.
- Simply follow the directions I give you in my posts and in my OOC section.

[Dáin Ironfoot I]

Dain ran into the white building, his beard and hair unkept, his clothing backwards. Nenya couldn't help but laugh at such an odd student.

"Aye, Lady, none woke me but the Sun herself, and when I realized her position in the fair sky, I had naught but two minutes to reach my class!" Dain bellowed. This would be an interesting class indeed, for Nenya already spotted the class clown.

[Mablung]

Sarin looked at the Dwarf in wonder it was the first time he had ever seen a a Dwarf with an unkempt beard and it was not exactly the most pleasent thing he had ever witnessed. He dismissed it though and yawned waiting for the class to begin.

[Ecthelion]

Seconds after the dwarf a tall man with scraggly brown hair walked in. He turned to Nenya and said,"Hello Mi Lady, I am Ecthelion of Osgiliath." He then turned away and took a seat awaiting the classes start.

[Phenix]

after Ecthelion came Phenix, he walked into the middle of the circle and bowed befor nenya befor siting down besides the dwarf.

[Nenya Evenstar]

"Welcome, Dain, Sarin, Ecthelion, and Phenix!" Nenya said, walking over to take her seat. "Thank you for arriving on time! I believe we are still awaiting the arrival of a few other students, so I will use this time to introduce myself. I am Nenya, one of the Trainers and Teachers of Heren Istarion. I will be teaching a few of your subjects, and I hope you find my courses enjoyable!" She smiled. "Does anyone have any questions while we wait for the others to arrive?"



**************************
OOC:
I have copied the posts here that I feel could use a little improvement. I have added in the corrections in bold type.

- Dain: Nice post! :) Very creative!

- Mablung: Sarin looked at the Dwarf in wonder. It was the first time he had ever seen no extra "a" a Dwarf with an unkempt beard, and it was not exactly the most pleas"a" instead of "e"nt thing he had ever witnessed. He dismissed it though and yawned, waiting for the class to begin.

Nice post, though there are just a few mistakes. I think this is simply due to the fact that you were probably typing fast. :)

- Ecthelion: Seconds after the dwarf, a tall man with scraggly brown hair walked in. He turned to Nenya and said,insert space here"Hello Mi Lady, I am Ecthelion of Osgiliath." He then turned away and took a seat awaiting the classes use "awaiting for the class to" or "awaiting the class'sstart.

Very good! Just a few typos and a little mess-up on "class's." I think that's the correct form. :p

- Phenix: After Ecthelion came Phenix. He walked into the middle of the circle and bowed before Nenya before sitting down besideno "s" the dwarf.

Nice post as well! Just remember to capitalize names and remember that "before" is spelled with an "e" at the end. ;)

Feel free to post any questions about this part of my post in an OOC section below your IC post. If anyone knows how I can make the corrected portions of the post red (using code, not buttons), please let me know! It would make it a lot easier for you guys to see the corrections.

[Goldberry344]

Goldberry ran into the room, clutching her sketch pad, gasping for breath.
"I hate the first day," she muttered. Suddenly realizing all eyes were on her, she flushed red, murmerd an apology and sat as far from the others as she could. She twisted her hair into a bun at the nape of her neck and glanced nervously about the room.

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana sneaked into class sat down and hoped that Nenya had not caught her late--- being a teacher of course Nenya had.

I am sorry, it seems to be my bad luck always to arrive late *under her breath* especially when class is so early

Dain laughed Charmiana kicked him and once again hoped Nenya had not heard...

[AratheinElessar]

Arathein Elessar opened the door to the room very quietly and slowly slinked into a table in amongst the other students, and prayed that he was not noticed. Although he did have a good reason to be late.

[Nenya Evenstar]

Nenya glanced around the room, a little bit flustered it must be admitted. She glanced nervously at the clock and realized that she had not yet received word from Ingolemo as to whether or not she was supposed to correlate this class with his classes. Realizing that such thoughts would do her no good, she bid her new students hello -- even the late ones. "It is good to see you, Goldie!" she said pleasantly. "Charmiana, it's all right that you were late this once... only please don't be late again! However, I will excuse you as I myself am a little bit on the slower side. Things in the government are going slow at the moment." Nenya's sharp eyes caught Arathein as he attempted to slip into the room unnoticed. "Welcome, Arathein!" she said quietly, "I might add the same to you as I did to Charmiana." Nenya took no notice of the kicks going on between Charmiana and Dain. "Now," she continued, turning in her chair to face the circular group before her, "please bear with me! I cannot begin class until I have received word from Ingolemo about certain things pertaining to this class. For the moment, you may talk amongst yourselves and get to know one another better." Nenya stood up and walked over to the windows. She flung open the silk curtains that covered the windows and let in a warm wash of sunshine. There would be no darkness in her classes.

**************************
OOC:


Goldie: Very nice post! I have a few very minute and picky things.

Goldberry ran into the room, clutching her sketch pad, Add an "and" here. gasping for breath. Don't put spaces here. There is no need for another paragraph.
"I hate the first day," she muttered. Suddenly realizing all eyes were on her, she flushed red, murmerd Change "murmerd" to "murmured"an apology insert a comma here and sat as far from the others as she could. She twisted her hair into a bun at the nape of her neck and glanced nervously about the room.


Charmiana: Nice post too!

Charmiana sneaked Change "sneaked" to "snuck" into class Insert comma here sat down Insert comma here and hoped that Nenya had not caught her late--- being a teacher Insert comma hereof course Nenya had.

I am sorry, it seems to be my bad luck always to arrive late *under her breath* especially when class is so early It is better to use quotes when your character talks. Also, try to avoid using "**" to enclose actions.

Dain laughed Insert a period hereCharmiana kicked him and once again hoped Nenya had not heard... It is customary to use four periods instead of three when ending a sentence in this manner.


Arathein: Another nice post! You guys are great!

Arathein Elessar opened the door to the room very quietly and slowly slinked into a table in amongst the other students, and prayed that he was not noticed. It would be better for you to word this first sentence either as "Arathein Elessar opened the door to the room very quietly, slowly slunk to a table amongst the other students, and prayed that he was not noticed" or "Arathein Elessar opened the door to the room very quietly and slowly slunk to a table amongst the other students. He prayed that he was not noticed" Take away the period after "noticed" and don't capitalize "although." Although he did have a good reason to be late.


Feel free to ask questions as to why I have changed something in an OOC section of your post!

I'm sorry if this in unintelligable! It's 2:30 a.m. :o

[Dáin Ironfoot I]

Dain grunted while trying to kick the Elf seated next to him, yet it was a hard chore for one with such short legs. Charmania laughed and smiled with a radiance of pearly light.

[AratheinElessar]

Arathein chuckled at the sight, and gave a slight nudge to the elf's chair. Turning around Arathein was given a dirty look from the piercing eyes of the elf, "Do you know who I am?"

"No, I don't, but it wasn't for me, it was for him," he said as he gave a quick glance to Dain, "also, I don't wish to make any quarrels with you, for you are of admirable race, but I am the son of the King of Gondor, and my family and I are at your service."

He wondered if Dain had noticed his slight use of dwarven customs, he hoped so, for he thought Dain would make a good friend. There seemed a good connection between his family and the race of dwarves, he wished to continue that tradition as best he could.

[ms Greenleaf]

"Long legs have their advantages master dwarf." Charmiana replied after laughing at the dwarves attempts to kick her. She saw that the dwarf was about to recite a long cantation about how he had run many miles on these legs and how useful it was to be short when one was in a mine... so Charmiana added "but nonetheless short legs are useful in different situations.

To Arathein she replied "I am but an elf from Mirkwood. For even if Dain had missed it Charmiana picked up the use of dwarvish customs. It was unusual for a man to know of such things...though a prince must know alot on such subjects

[Goldberry344]

Goldberry's ears catch the word "Mirkwood", and smiling she jolts from a slump to an attentive seat. "You're from Mirkwood? Perhaps you know Lenora, my mother and distantant relative of Legolas?"

[ms Greenleaf]

Yes actually I do Goldberry. She is one of my mothers friends; although I have been away from Mirkwood for quite some time.

[Goldberry344]

Goldie grinned. "It is nice to see someone of elf blood among us. This is quite the 'diverse' group, you might say." Goldie's voice droped to a gleeful whisper, "Even a Dwarf!"

[ms Greenleaf]

"And why Goldberry would the presence of a dwarf be surprising?"

[Goldberry344]

"It may be just that I am still young," Goldie began, "but I have only seen ten or so in my lifetime. My grandfather told me that after Gimli left to the West with Legolas those of dwarf blood kept to themselves. Perhaps, though, we were just too close to the Shire."

[ms Greenleaf]

"I have seen many dwarves in my life, never (of course) one so amusing as master Dain."

[Maeglin]

A young elf by the name of Glarin walked into the room with his held high, he felt he was too good to be at such a school with these immature Elves and Dwarf. Without looking at anyone Glarin took a seat in the back of the room, far away from everyone else, and made himself comfortable. Coming from a wealthy family he felt he deserved to have his own personal space and comfort in the back of the room.


OOC: Just so everyone knows if you haven't read my post in the "Dorms" thread, my character is supposed to be quite a jerk and full of himself.

[Eöl]

Celebrien walks into the room and slides in next to Charmiana. "It's good to see another from the Guild Of Elves here! I'm a new member, but I can't wait to get going."

[Nenya Evenstar]

Nenya stood up from her chair and glanced once more towards the clock. She shook her head. This was impossible! Oh well, there was nothing she could do. Shaking her mind from the worries that ailed it, she welcomed the newcomers. "Glarin, Celebrien, welcome! It's good to see you here. Usually I would be rather disappointed in both of you since you are this late. However, since I am unable to do anything in this class as of yet, I will excuse you... this time." She smiled and did not take any notice of Glarin's isolated position. "Now," she continued, "since I am awaiting the teacher of another class, I am going to dismiss this class until further notice. I do not see the point of continuing when I cannot teach you anything yet. So, you are free to go!" Nenya walked over to the door and swung it open. "I will see you all very soon for the next class time!"


*****************************
OOC:

Post your departure. I will post back here in a few days with the beginning of another class.

Corrections:
I have done these in order. You will have to scroll through to find your posts.

Arathein:
Arathein chuckled at the sight, There is no need for a comma here because a comma used in this manner is used to separate two sentences. You have given only one sentence. and gave a slight nudge to the elf's chair. Turning aroundPlace a comma here. Always use commas after participial phrases. Arathein was given a dirty look from the piercing eyes of the elf, "Do you know who I am?" I would suggest that you put something in here to clarify who exactly is talking. It can be assumed that Charmania is talking, but it could also be assumed that you are talking. Therefore, I would put in a "she asked."
"No, I don't, but it wasn't for me, I would change this comma to a period. It would make this sentence smoother. it Capitalize "it." was for him," he You should change "he" to Arathein. said as he gave a quick glance to Dain, "also, You should capitalize "also" as it is the beginning of a new sentence spoken by your character. I don't wish to make any quarrels with you, There is no use for a comma here because "for you are of admirable race" is telling why you don't wish for any quarrels. This phrase is an adverbial phrase describing the verb. for you are of admirable race, but I am the son of the King of Gondor, and my family and I are at your service."

He I would use Arathein more often, especially at the beginning of paragraphs. Your sentences can seem wordy if you use pronouns in place of personal nouns all the time. wondered if Dain had noticed his slight use of dwarven customs, You should use a period here instead of a comma. You want to try and avoid run-on sentences.he You should capitalize "he" since your last comma was changed to a period. hoped so, No comma here. Think of the "for" as "because." You usually do not use a comma before because. for he thought Dain would make a good friend. There seemed Add "to be" in here a good connection between his family and the race of dwarves, Add an "and" here he wished to continue that tradition as best he could.

Finished:Arathein chuckled at the sight and gave a slight nudge to the elf's chair. Turning around, Arathein was given a dirty look from the piercing eyes of the elf, "Do you know who I am?" she asked.
"No, I don't, but it wasn't for me. It was for him," Arathein said as he gave a quick glance to Dain, "Also, I don't wish to make any quarrels with you for you are of admirable race, but I am the son of the King of Gondor, and my family and I are at your service."

Arathein wondered if Dain had noticed his slight use of dwarven customs. He hoped so for he thought Dain would make a good friend. There seemed to be a good connection between his family and the race of dwarves, and he wished to continue that tradition as best he could.

- Overall a very imaginative post! Very nice!


Charmiana:

"Long legs have their advantages I would insert a comma in here. master dwarf." Change this period to a comma. You should end spoken sentences in cases like this with a comma because of the following phrase. Charmiana replied after laughing at the dwarves Change "dwarves" to "dwarf's." "Dwarves" is plural. attempts to kick her. She saw that the dwarf was about to recite a long cantation about how he had run many miles on these change "these" to "his." legs and how useful it was to be short when one was in a mine... so Charmiana added Put a comma here. "but Capitalize "but" nonetheless Insert a comma here. It is proper to use commas after words such as "however," "nonetheless," "but," etc. short legs are useful in different situations. Don't forget your ending quotation mark.

To Arathein she replied Place a comma here. You always use a comma before someone is going to speak.. "I am but an elf from Mirkwood. Finish off your quote here. For even if Dain had missed it When adverbial phrases are used at the beginning of a sentence you separate them off with a comma. When used at the end, there is no comma. Charmiana I would use the form of the verb "had picked" here instead of "picked" because you said "had missed" previously. picked up the use of dwarvish customs. It was unusual for a man to know of such things... Put a space here. though a prince must know alot on such subjects Don't forget to end your sentences with a period!

Finished:"Long legs have their advantages, master dwarf," Charmiana replied after laughing at the dwarf's attempts to kick her. She saw that the dwarf was about to recite a long cantation about how he had run many miles on his legs and how useful it was to be short when one was in a mine... so Charmiana added, "But nonetheless, short legs are useful in different situations."

To Arathein she replied, "I am but an elf from Mirkwood." For even if Dain had missed it, Charmiana had picked up the use of dwarvish customs. It was unusual for a man to know of such things... though a prince must know alot on such subjects.

Very imaginative as well! I like it!

[Nenya Evenstar]

Goldie:

Goldberry's ears catch the word "Mirkwood", and smiling she jolts from a slump to an attentive seat. "You're from Mirkwood? Perhaps you know Lenora, my mother and distantant Distant relative of Legolas?" Good post! However, it is better to use past tense for RP's. It makes for a better story.


Charmiana:

Don't forget your quotes! Yes actually I do Insert a comma here. Goldberry. She is one of my mothers put an apostrophe in "mothers" because it is possessive in this case. friends; Take this semi colon out.although I have been away from Mirkwood for quite some time. I would suggest clarifying this last sentence. Does "She is one of my mother's friends although I have been away from Mirkwood for quite some time" really make sense?


Goldie:

Goldie grinned. "It is nice to see someone of elf blood among us. This is quite the 'diverse' group, you might say." Goldie's voice drops to a gleeful whisper, "Even a Dwarf!" Very nice!


Charmiana:
"And why Insert a comma here. You should always separate names used in this context by two commas.Goldberry Insert comma here. would the presence of a dwarf be surprising?"


Goldie:
"It may be just that I am still young," Goldie began, "But There is no need to capitalize "but." I have only seen 10 I would spell out "ten" here. or so in my lifetime. My grandfather told me that after Gimli left to the West with Legolas, You don't need to use a comma here because the rest of the sentence cannot stand alone. those of dwarf blood kept to themselves. Perhaps, though, we were just too close to the Shire."


Charmiana:

"I have seen many dwarves in my life, never (of course) one so amusing as master Dain." Good! I have one suggestion for you though. You should never just reply with what your character says. Always try to add at least a "so-and-so said" or a "so-and-so replied." It is also never a bad idea to describe your character's emotions.

A very interesting topic, I must say! Must Legolas' influence reach even into class? ;)


Glorfindel:

A young elf by the name of Glarin walked into the room with his held high, Change your comma to a period. You want to try and avoid run-on sentences. he Capitalize "he" because of the period change. felt he was too good to be at such a school with these immature Elves and Dwarf. Dwarves? Without looking at anyone Insert a comma here. Glarin took a seat in the back of the room, far away from everyone else, and made himself comfortable. Coming from a wealthy family he felt he deserved to have his own personal space and comfort in the back of the room.

I like it how you have given your character so much personality. It's very nice!


Celebrien:

Celebrien walks into the room and slides in next to Charmiana. "It's good to see another from the Guild Of Elves here! I'm a new member, but I can't wait to get going."

Good, good. Perhaps a little short?

[Ecthelion]

Ecthelion stood up from his chair a little puzzled, but obeyed his teacher and exited the class. Ecthelion walked to a big tree not far away, he sat under it and looked out amongst all the plants and trees and wildlife. Ecthelion sat now in peace for awhile.

[Eöl]

Celebrien thought to himself "I suppose I better go grab a room in the dorms, since I didn't have time to when I arrived. I sure hope class starts soon though. Maybe I will go check out some of the activities they have here..." as he thought this he slowly wandered out of the class.

[Phenix]

Phenix got up from his chair and walked towards thew door. he walked past the his class mates but just in front of the door he tumbled and fell.

" ouch" he said as he hit the gound. he turned around and looked at the rest of the people who were about to leave as well. nobody said anything so Phenix left the room, reed as a tomatoe

[Nenya Evenstar]

*********************
OOC:
Hahaha! Very good Phenix! I loved it!

Phenix got up from his chair and walked towards thew Change "thew" to "the." door. he Don't forget to capitalize the beginnings of sentences. walked past the his class mates but just in front of the door he tumbled and fell.

" ouch" Capitalize "ouch." Try also to avoid extra spaces. You may want to add an exclamation point to show more expression. he said as he hit the gound. he Capitalize! turned around and looked at the rest of the people who were about to leave as well. nobody Capitalize! said anything so Phenix left the room, reed change "reed" to "red" as a tomatoe Change "tomatoe" to "tomato." Also, don't forget to end your sentence with a period.


Finished:

Phenix got up from his chair and walked towards the door. He walked past the his class mates but just in front of the door he tumbled and fell.

"Ouch!" he said as he hit the gound. He turned around and looked at the rest of the people who were about to leave as well. Nobody said anything so Phenix left the room, red as a tomato.


Overall, very good! Wonderful idea. You did well to let the reader know that you were embarrased.

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana really did not like Glarin. How could someone let their child turn into that... ughh it made her so mad if she ever had a kid--not that she wanted to -- she would never let it turn out like that. "Goldie where are you going next?"

[Goldberry344]

Goldie sighed as she gathered her books and her thoughts. "I haven't a clue. I suppose I shall just follow you and see what winds up."

[ms Greenleaf]

Maybe after we drop our books off in the dorms we can go outside practise with our swords

[Nenya Evenstar]

*******************
OOC:
Maybe after we drop our books off in the dorms we can go outside practise with our swords Charmiana, is this going along with the correction I just gave you?
- Posted by me earlier:
Good! I have one suggestion for you though. You should never just reply with what your character says. Always try to add at least a "so-and-so said" or a "so-and-so replied." It is also never a bad idea to describe your character's emotions.
- I also gave the corrections to use quotes and to end sentences with a period.

- I have a suggestion for both Goldie and Charmiana. Instead of focusing on conversation, why don't you focus on the actions your character takes? For example, Charmiana, you need to start having your character do more actions on her own instead of always asking other people what they'd like to do. Goldie, the same could go for you in your post. Instead of going back and forth with extremely short posts, one of you could have posted the departure of both your characters. You both know that you will be doing something together. It is not necessarily a sin to move another person's character. In situations like this it is almost essential. So, try to get what needs to be accomplished accomplished without excess posts. You must avoid useless posting!

[Maeglin]

As Glarin gathered his belongings and prepared to leave, he glanced around the room at some of the other students. As he did this he saw that a young elf was giving him a dirty look, he stared back at her with no expression on his face. As he turned to leave he thought to himself "Charmiana was her name, if I remember correctly, I wonder what that look was for." While he pondered this he turned around to look at her again, but he met a book coming straight at him, he caught it just inches from his face, and handed it back to the person who had thrown it. He realized that already he had a bad reputation here, and not for the last time thought, "Why did my father send me here? I deserve better." Glarin now left the classroom by himself and made his way slowly back to his dorm.

[Mablung]

Sarin casually grabbed his books and stood up. He hadn't had much time to think as of late so he thought he would just head back to his dorm and do just that. Giving a small wave goodbye to everyone he left the class.

[Goldberry344]

Goldie glanced back at Glarin, smilng warmly. Looking at Chrarmiana she whispered, "I'll catch you later." Goldberry ran up to Glarin, "Some first class, don't you think?" she asked, smiling.

[Maeglin]

"Yes, very exciting, yet boring. So, where did you come to this school from?"

[Goldberry344]

"I came from my grandfather's house, he sent me here after I finished my training as a ranger." Goldie responded, "and you?"


OOC:

Should we finish this convo in the dorms? or the rp thingy?

[Maeglin]

OOC: I think we should finish it in the dorms, we were told to make an exit, and we already did.

[ms Greenleaf]

Charmiana could not help but wonder what Goldie saw in Glarin well to each her own. Less competition for her. Why do all these werd quotes keep popping into my head. Whatever. With that thought Charmiana packed up her bags and went to the dorms to see goldie, and maybe Dain,.

[Nenya Evenstar]

*******************
OOC:
Goldie and Glarin, yes you made the right choice. ;) Please do not have any out of class discussion here. When I ask you to post your departure from class, please use one post to depart. The Dorms thread is for discussion inside the dorms. If your character is walking outside, visit this thread: http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=9332. Each thread in this guild has its purpose. Just use each thread as it is supposed to be used (i.e. to make the "world" realistic). Eventually we will get The Library up as well.

[lossenandunewen]

Lossenandunewen silently strode into the classroom.
"My lady" She started, " I have just signed for the class. I regret my tardiness, but I promise to be a valuable member."
Nenya smiled, and accepted this. Lossenandunewen then, brushing her red hair out of her grey eyes, walked out of the room. Her head was held high and proud, as if she searched for an importance she would own one day, and her feet made no noise whatsoever.

[Rasec]

Rasec had missed the first Geography of Arda lesson. He was desperately looking for somebody to instruct him about what to do. While walking through the corridor of the Dorms, he found Glarin and asked him what the Teacher had taught in the lesson.

- Nenya could not teach us anything without speaking with Ingolemo before - Glarin answered. - But she was not able to speak with him, so she let everybody go and postponed the lesson.
- Thank you very much, Glarin - said Rasec.

He felt better that moment. He was glad he had not lost anything. He sighed and went back to his room.

[Aulë]

Chokang came running up to the place where the Geography lesson was suppost to be taking place. He groaned in disappointment when he realised that he had missed it completely.
"Oh fiddlesticks!" he muttered to himself, "That won't do my reputation too good, Ms Evenstar will most likely detest tardiness."
He then slowly walked back to the Dorms.

[elfgirl]

A person walked in, and said, "I'm late to almost every class!! This is bad. I'll try to make it to the next one."

[Aulë]

OOC: Elfgirl, did you even read the previous posts in the thread??
And I think it would be a good idea if you didn't post the same entrance for every class that you are in.

[Findarato]

Another person walked in, right after Avari. "Oh, I see I've missed this class. I will try to make the next one." He then walked quietly out.

[Wonko The Sane]

*Arianne walked silently in, her barefeet padding softly on the smooth marble floors. She sat in an empty desk and pulled out some parchment and a quill, eager to begin her lessons.*

[HobbitGirl]

An energetic, female hobbit walked up to the door of the classroom. Before she entered the room she could be heard saying to her little terrier, "No, Licale, you have to stay out here. No, I said stay." The hobbit entered the room and walked up to the teacher's desk. "Greeting, miss," Lita said to teacher. "I am sorry I am late for this class..." She paused and looked around, noticing all the people leaving for the dorms. "...but it looks like class is over. Have I missed anything of terrible importance?"

[Wonko The Sane]

Arianne smiles as she sees the grinning hobbit bound through the door.

"Don't ask me!" She announces. "I just got here!"

[The_Swordmaster]

Grandlyon walks in the class wondering how much he missed since the other students are walking out of the room. He walks up to Nenya to see what he missed.

[CelebrianTiwele]

A slender, weather beaten elf-maiden walked in. She saw all the people leaving and said, "Well, late for another class. Forgive me, I seem to be tardy alot today. Did I miss anything?" She got the notes from that day and exitted the classroom, hoping that she could be more punctual next time.

[Legolaschick]

A young looking elf walked in. She was wareing a long light green cape, but in the sunlight it looked silver. "Hello, I'm sorry that I am so late." she said to the teacher. And went and took an empty set.

[Nenya Evenstar]

Legolaschick, this class hasn't started yet and no one is in the building because it's only Tuesday. This class doesn't start until Thursday . . . you're not tardy, only very, very early. If you don't know what I'm talking about, go read this thread all the way through. If you haven't read the thread, read it all the way through. :)
http://www.thetolkienforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=10436&pagenumber=1

[Aulë]

Chokang strolled up to the door of the Geography room. The sun was only just rising, and there was still a mist about the grounds of Heren Istarion.
The Dwarf had still not moved back into the Dorms, and was in no rush to do so as sleep was something that he would not be able to do for some time after the horrors he had witnessed in the last few weeks.
He sat down at the base of the door, and stared at the distant mountains whilst waiting for the instructor.

[Nenya Evenstar]

Nenya entered her goeography classroom carrying the same bundle of books she always carried under one arm. The room was a little dim as the thick curtains that shaded the windows were shut, so Nenya walked to the back of the room and let in the outside light. Sunlight flooded through the window panes and lit the room with its late morning cheerfulness. Nenya placed the stack of papers next to her chair and prepared to greet her students.


************************

OOC: I want as many people to show up as possible before I start. Today's class is going to be a discussion about things that Tolkien never really wrote about. So, I need lots of participation!

[Nenya Evenstar]

Suddenly, Nenya jumped. "I did not see you Chokang! I am not used to having students arrive before I do." She laughed at herself for her mistake. "Needless to say, I'm pleased. It's wonderful to see you back! I have missed having you in my classes. And you are extremely prepared today . . . perhaps even more prepared than I am!" She smiled and shook Chokang's hand in greeting.

[Aulë]

Chokang felt rather insulted about Nenya's complete disregard of him at the door. He followed her into the room, and ran around in front of her.
"You may think that because I'm not as tall as yourself, that you are of more importance," he hissed whilst shaking his fist, "But trust my words, I have done more valiant things on Middle Earth than you could possibly imagine!"
And to prove his point, he kicked her in the shins before trudging back to his seat, whilst mumbling obscenities about how arrogant Elves were.

[Luthien_7]

Elleth entered the classroom. It was the first time that she was there.
"Suilad, M'lady!" she greeted the teacher and took a seat near the window. The sun shone bright outside and she found herself wishing that she would be sitting in the grass at the shores of the lake. She sighed.

[Nenya Evenstar]

Nenya looked at Chokang's retreating back and then dismissed him completely from her mind. She had better things to be thinking about.

Turning her attention to Elleth she said, "Good morning Elleth, and welcome!" She walked to the window and flung it open, letting the morning breeze dance freely throughout the room.

[Eöl]

Celebrien strolled into the room soon after Elleth. "Ahh, it appears I am on time today! Well that is good, more time to look at my maps that I drew up last night." He sat down and began to examine his map of Middle Earth and Beleriand.

[The_Swordmaster]

Grandlyon walked in the room with a tired look on his face. He grumbled loudly to himself. "It's so early. So very early." He is used to waking up at a much later time then this. " Good morning madame." he mumbled just loud enough for her to here him. So the dwarf sat down at his desk and took a nap before class started.

[Phenix]

Phenix strolled into the room, looking very happy. He just came from the dorm were he had retrieved an letter from an old friend who was too visit

"Suilad" he exclaimed as he walked through the door”beutifull morning isn't it?" he asked no one particular. And went past the wall were the student were al sleep.

”did I miss something?" he asked looking at the sleepy students " is this some new subject and I'm in the wrong class room or are the teacher just holding one of her boring lectures?" he then asked the nearest student. Unfortunately the ´student´ turned and revealed the face of nenya

”hmm... I mean…hmm....I'm I late?" he managed too get out before, walking, and almost running towards his seat in the circle.

[Nenya Evenstar]

"No, you are on time," Nenya said to Phenix. "The sleeping students are just waiting for me to begin. I'm still waiting on quite a few students . . . I wonder if they'll come. However, sleeping is never encouraged during class." Nenya laughed and resisted the temptation to prod the sleeping Grandlyon with a pencil.


************

OOC:

Phenix: I want you to edit your post and try to make it as perfect as you possibly can. :)

Swordmaster: There is one sentence that sticks out in your post: "He is used to waking up at a much later time then this." All the rest of your post is in the past tense, so the "is" in this sentence should be "was." Make sure your entire post agrees in tense. Also, check your spelling on "here." It should be "hear." :)

[Legolaschick]

A young looking elf came running in after Phenix. "Oh M' lady I am sorry for being so late." and with that she went to an empty set. "I will be on time, next time." she said mentaly kicking herself for being late.

[elfgirl]

Avari walked in, and froze. She had never seen such a waste of time. She, however, DID prod Grandlyon with a pencil. She then quickly disappeared to the back of the classroom, trying to hide her smiling and snickering. She opened a book which she was almost done with. For the first time, however, others caught the name of the book. It was called, 'The Phoenix'.

[Mablung]

Sarin came into the class very tired from the night before. He had slept well enough, but they had all been up late regardless at Goldie's party. Geography was one of his better subjects since he had little to no knowledge of any of it. He had to wake up anyway as the Tournament Club had its first meeting later today.

[Nenya Evenstar]

"Very well!" Nenya began, "Let us begin!" Everyone crowded into the circle of chairs and at least made a show of listening. "Today's class is going to be a little slow I'm afraid. I am supposed to teach this class in conjunction with the History of Arda class, and since that class has only gotten past the Music of the Ainur there is not all that much that we can discuss. In that class the world has not even taken material form yet . . . so what did exist? What does exist outside Arda? What do the Halls of Eru look like? Are they material halls? Or are they simply in a spirit realm that we cannot touch? Indeed, does Eru even have a real body that would enable him to live in a material place? Did the Ainur have material bodies before descending into Arda? I want you all to honestly discuss this question: What existed before Arda was brought into being? Go to the books and get quotes! Research for yourself! However, there is not much information in the books about what was before Time, so make your own ideas. You will hopefully learn a lot about things that you have never thought of before." Nenya pulled out a large stack of books from the pile of papers beside her. "Here are the books . . . discuss and enjoy! I will be throwing comments in now and then, but it would be good to have this a primarily student conversation." Nenya hoped that it would prove to be so.


********************

OOC:

I know this is a little general . . . but there are many interesting topics that you could pursue. Think of it as a Tolkien discussion IC. If you need help with getting quotes from books you don't have, just PM me. :)

[Phenix]

with out looking in the books Phenix began

" I don't really think that the Halls of Eru looks like anything at all. they're more like a place were everything is gathered al at once. I know It doens't make any seence but I think it kind of the opposit the the place were morgoth is imprisoned which I think is a place of nothing or something like that." he now paused " if anyone has naything too object against fell free to do so" he ended looking at the other students



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

I edited my last post as you whished nenya...hope it's good

[Eöl]

Celebrien rose, and began to speak "In my opinion, the Halls of Eru were material. Also, Melkor was taken captive and....There he lay upon his face before the feet of Manwe and sued for pardon; but his prayer was denied, and he was cast into prison in the fastnesses of Mandos, whence none can escape, neither Vala, nor Elf, nor mortal Man. Vast and strong are those halls, and they built in the west of the land of Aman.
So I think that proves that Melkor's place of captivity was material, and I also think that this proves the Halls of Eru as material...But Iluvatar arose in splendor, and he went forth from the fair regions that he had made for the Ainur; and the Ainur followed him. Those are just my thoughts, your points are still excellent Phenix!" Celebrien finished, then sat back down.

[Phenix]

Phenix took a book fro the pile and began too search for a piece . " here it is " he mumbled befor looking at Celebrien

" I have too disagree with you on what melkors prison is" he said


But Morgoth himself the Valar thrust through the Door of Night beyond the Walls of the World, into the Timeless Void; and a guard is set fro ever on those walls, and Eärendil keeps watch upon the ramparts of the sky. Yet the lies that Melkor, the mighty and accursed, Morgoth Bauglir, the Power of Terror and of Hate, sowed in the hearts of Elves and Men are a seed that does not die and cannot be destroyed; and ever and anon it sprouts anew, and will bear dark fruit even unto the latest days.


" this proves, or at least I thik it proves that he was inprisoned in a none material place. Atleast a place were time does not exist.



oc: thanx nenya

[Eöl]

"That is different than imprisonment, in my quote he was imprisoned for three ages, but yours is taken from when he was banished from Arda forever." Celebrien replied.

[Phenix]

"hmm...true...my mistake"

[Nenya Evenstar]

Nenya did not give any added insight yet, but instead looked around the classroom. "Come!" she prodded gently, "Do not let Phenix and Celebrien simply converse on their own! I'd like to see some more participation."


OOC: You're welcome, Phenix! Yes, your last edit was much better! However, in your next two posts you didn't seem to take the same care. I'd like to see you make each of your post correctly from now on.

Where is everyone else?

[Nenya Evenstar]

"Alright," Nenya said, "here is some imput.
The Silmarillion
In the midst of this strife, whereat the halls of Ilúvatar shook and a tremor ran out into the silences yet unmoved, Ilúvatar arose a third time, and his face was terrible to behold. Then he raised up both his hands, and in one chord, deeper than the Abyss, higher than the Firmament, piercing as the light of the eye of Ilúvatar, the Music ceased.
"So, Iluvatar obviously is sitting . . . but is he sitting on something material? And it says that the halls shook . . . but are the halls simply in a spirit realm?

The Silmarillion
But Ilúvatar arose in splendour, and he went forth from the fair regions that he had made for the Ainur; and the Ainur followed him.
But when they were come into the Void, Ilúvatar said to them: 'Behold your Music!' And he showed to them a vision, giving to them sight where before was only hearing; and they saw a new world made visible before them, and it was globed amid the Void, and it was sustained therein, but was not of it. And as they looked and wondered this World began to unfold its history, and it seemed to them that it lived and grew.
"Are the 'fair regions that he had made for them . . .' material or spiritual?

"What we do know, is that outside Eru's halls was the Void. Ea, or Arda, was created inside the void. 'And he showed them a vision, giving to them sight where before was only hearing; and they saw a new world made visible before them . . . .' This quote I take to mean only that there was no sight in the Void before the vision of Ea. So was the sight in the Halls of Eru spiritual or material? Once Ea came into being there was something in the Void, and outside Ea was nothingness. And outside the Void was a spiritual realm? Or a material realm?
The Silmarillion:
The Great among these spirits the Elves name the Valar, the Powers of Arda . . . .
"So the Ainur were spirits.
The Silmarillion
Then those Ainur who desired it arose and entered into the World . . . . Then they put on the raiment of the Earth and descended into it, and dwelt therein. "And the raiment of the Ainur before entering Arda was not the same as it was after entering.
The Silmarillion
Now the Valar took to themselves shape and hue; and because they were drawn into the World by love of the Children of Ilúvatar, for whom they hoped they took shape after that manner which they had beheld in the Vision of Ilúvatar, save only in majesty and splendour. Moreover their shape comes of the knowledge of the visible World, rather than of the World itself; and thy need it not, save only as we use raiment, and yet we may be naked and suffer no loss of our being. Therefore the Valar may walk, if they will, unclad, and then even the Eldar cannot clearly perceive them, though they be present. But when they desire to clothe themselves the Valar take upon them forms some as of male and some as of female; for that difference of temper they had even from their beginning, and it is but bodied forth in the choice of each, not made by the choice, even as with us male and female may be shown by the raiment but is not made thereby. But the shapes wherein the Great Ones array themselves are not at all times like to the shapes of the kings and queens of the Children of Ilúvatar; for at times they may clothe themselves in their own thought, made visible in forms of majesty and dread.
"From this quote I take it that the Valar did not have material form as we know it. This quote supports spiritual Halls of Eru because it states that the Valar did not have material bodies before entering Ea. So, which is it?

"This is a topic that could have much debate, I think. There is no real, true answer."


******************

OOC:

Thank you Eol and Phenix for discussing! I had hoped that you would all take part in the discussion . . . you are all more than capable of finding these quotes for yourselves. :( Feel free to discuss more. :)

[Legolaschick]

Erithiel sat and lissond to all three of the people talk. "I think that the halls were made of something... I mean a solid something." she said stumbling over her words. As Nenya quoted:
Halls of Ilúvatar shook and a tremor ran out into the silences yet unmoved,...
"I find that I think that this means these halls were a solid." she said this time with more confadene.

[Nenya Evenstar]

The clock chimed. Nenya glanced at it hastily, with a tight frown. "You may be right, Erithiel," she said. "I cannot say for sure whether you're right or wrong . . . I do not know." She shook her head. "Perhaps someday we will all know!"

Some of the students grinned.

"But now, our time is up! Thank you all for attending, and I'll see you in this class next week!"

The students filed out, one by one, until Nenya was left alone.


*****************

OOC:

Very nice post, Legolaschick! Watch your spelling of "listened" and "confidence." ;)

[Wonko The Sane]

Arianne raced into the room and ran around reading the speech and thought bubbles that still hung in the air in desperate attempts to catch up on what she missed.

When that proved impossible she frantically scrambled up to Nenya, chest heaving, barely able to catch her breath.

"Help!" She squeaked.

"What did I miss?" She winced a bit as she leaned against her professor's desk, hoping to elicit a little sympathy and more than a little help with the lesson.

She managed a wan, pleading smile.

[CelebrianTiwele]

Celebrian had watched the others for awhile, inserting a comment here and there. When the teacher called class dismissed, she stood and exited speaking to no one. She was in somewhat of a foul mood today.

OOC: Sorry I missed the class :(

[Nenya Evenstar]

Nenya, who was sitting at her desk working on some papers, looked up at Wonko. "Well, but you are late! A few days late in fact! ;) But that's alright." She almost grinned.

Wonko's face grew more calm.

"All you missed was a haphazard discussion on what the Halls of Eru were . . . nothing much. Indeed, I will go easy on you . . . this time. You don't have any assignments for this class, but it might be beneficial for you to muse on your own about whether or not you think Eru's abode was spiritual or material."


************

OOC: Go ahead and read the posts to see what we talked about, if you haven't already. :)

[Wonko The Sane]

Arianne heaved a sigh of relief as Nenya's kind face smiled at her as she spoke.

"Thank you so much!! I'll study hard before our next lesson!"

Arianne hurried out of the room and went straight to the library where she sat down with her text book began reading of the Halls of Eru and composed some opinions on a scarp of parchment.

~*~*~*~*~*~

OOC: I've read them. :) Thanks Just wanting to make sure I'm not dead or flamed for this. :D