[ Disclaimer: I have consulted approximately nobody about this idea in advance; nor did I attend the community meeting yesterday, nor have I actually gotten around to reading the log. That said... ]


1. Basic Summary. (In case you don't like reading walls of text).

Problem: A desire for more interactive RP between the "bad guys" and the "good guys", namely outside of Bree itself.

Solution: A regular merchant's caravan that exits Bree via the West Gate and travels up the Greenway to Trestlebridge.


2. IC Justification (IMPORTANT!)

As we know, Trestlebridge is a settlement of Bree-folk in the southern part of the North Downs. Facing constant attack by Orcs, the townspeople furthermore look with suspicion and distrust upon potential allies such as the Rangers of Esteldin. Furthermore, the community is isolated; in desperate need of food and supplies they are unable to produce for themselves.

Therefore, the town Mayor, after consulting with the Captain of the garrison, resolves to enter into business with Bree-town merchants to obtain the goods.


3. Who?

For this to work, there need to be three groups of participants.

A. The Caravan. This would be made up of merchants primarily, but would also include hired protection, Bree-folk who wish to settle at Trestlebridge, and (generally) anybody who is afraid to brave the brigand-infested journey north alone.

B. The Bad People. Brigands, thieves, highway-robbers, etc.

C. The Good People. Watchers, Rangers, what have you.


4. How?

The caravan would be run once a week, announced in an OOC way on the forums. The day would shift from week to week to ensure variety in participants.

It can be assumed that those coordinating the merchants would inform them of the date, but both the Bad People and the Good People would NOT show up unless they gained knowledge of the time of the caravan's run IC.

The merchants would obviously want to keep it as secret as they could; they don't want to alert the brigands, and many would look upon the "good guys" with distrust. Both sides would have to rely on their spies and informants to "find out" about the caravan.

From there, it's up to the RPers. Do the Bad People feel assured enough to attack the caravan? If so--at what part of the journey? How will the Good People attempt to guard the caravan--by joining it, or by patrolling ahead? If conflict ensues, which side will win the RP fight?


5. What Now?

You come on here and flame me for my idea...

Just kidding.

What would be really great is if you'd give your opinions. As I said, I just randomly came up with this all on my own; I welcome discussions to revise or clarify points. Also, it would be awesome to get people to sign up for participation, should they feel like it...