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North Dakota State guard Carlin Dupree entered the game for the first time midway through OT and calmly delivered two clutch free throws -- never mind his 58.3 free-throw percentage this season -- to put the Bison up 74-72. After an Oklahoma turnover, Dupree gave the Bison a four-point lead with a double-clutch layup over two defenders that skimmed over the side of the rim.
Bison guard Lawrence Alexander led North Dakota State with a career-high 28 points. North Dakota State made 20 of 22 free throws.
Twelfth-seeded North Dakota State (26-6) advances to face either fourth-seeded San Diego State or 13th-seeded New Mexico State on Saturday.
Every time it appeared Oklahoma was on the ropes, senior forward Cameron Clark pulled the Sooners back up, tying the game at 70 with a 3-pointer two minutes into overtime and knotting the game again with 1:18 remaining in OT with two free throws following Bison guard Taylor Braun's fifth foul. Clark paced Oklahoma with 25 points on 9-of-21 shooting.
Alexander nailed a 3-pointer in front of his North Dakota State bench to tie the score at 66 with 11.2 seconds left in regulation. Oklahoma missed three shots in the final 9.8 seconds, sending the game to overtime.
Sooners guard Isaiah Cousins (17 points) made two free throws to give Oklahoma its first lead of the second half with 1:30 to play.
After Braun's lefty layup rolled out at the other end, Clark splashed a 17-foot jumper for his seventh point in 2:30 as part of an 8-0 run staked the Sooners to a 65-61 advantage that appeared safe.
However, an ill-advised foul on Cousins sent Braun to the line, and he made it a two-point game with 32.4 seconds left. Cousins made only one of two free throws on the Sooners' ensuing possession to keep the door open for North Dakota State. Braun drew three defenders in the middle of the lane and found Alexander for the 3-pointer.
The Bison shot 64 percent in the first half but went frosty in the second half.
Alexander carried the Bison in the first half with three of North Dakota State's five 3-point field goals in the first 20 minutes of the game.
Braun, the Summit League Player of the Year, was held in check in the first half with just five points.
Oklahoma shot under 38 percent in the first half and trailed 37-29 at the break.
NOTES: G Taylor Braun, one of three senior starters for North Dakota State, led the team in scoring (18.6 points per game) and rebounding (5.5 per game) this season. ... North Dakota State led the NCAA in shooting (50.1 percent). ... Oklahoma coach Lon Kruger was voted Big 12 coach of the year. He is the only coach in history to lead five different schools to the NCAA Tournament.


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UPDATE: This game has been shutdown and is no longer available
WonderKing Overview
WonderKing is 2D, side-scrolling MMORPG that aims to compete with Nexon's enormously popular MapleStory. Even though WonderKing is basically a 'MapleStory' clone, it's a darn good one, as it offers a lot of interesting features that Nexon's game just doesn't have (such as crafting and PvP). The only thing WonderKing is really lacking right now is overall content, as the game only has four base classes and a lot smaller game world than its competitors. Even though WonderKing is unlikely to dethrone MapleStory as the most popular side-scrolling MMORPG, it should easily be able to compete with other side-scrollers like LaTale and Wind Slayer. The game's four starting classes are:
Swordsman - Swordsmen are the primary melee 'tank' class in the game. They have the most hit points and defensive capabilities. They also have powerful melee attacks.
Thief -Like in MapleStory, thieves in WonderKing are capable of dealing a great deal of damage in a short period of time but have few hitpoints. They can specialize in melee daggers, claws, or throw shurukens.
Mage - Mages are the primary spellcasting class in the game. They can specialize into offense-oriented Wizards or supportive Priests after their first job advancement.
Scout – The 'Scout' in WonderKing is capable of dealing a respectable amount of damage from a distance with either a bow or a gun. They're basically archers.
WonderKing Screenshots
WonderKing Featured Video
WonderKing Review
By Omer Altay
WonderKing is a 2D, side-scrolling fantasy MMORPG published by Ndoors, the company behind Atlantica Online and Luminary: Rise of the Goonzu. The game does little to hide the fact that it both looks and plays a lot like Nexon's enormously popular MapleStory. In fact, it would be fair to call WonderKing a MapleStory clone. Though, in my book, being called a MapleStory clone isn't necessarily a bad thing, considering MapleStory is one of the most popular and content-rich free-to-play MMORPGs of all time. I can also safely say that WonderKing is the most polished and in-depth MapleStory clone out there, easily beating games like La Tale, Wind Slayer and Ghost Online. Anyway, now that we got the whole 'LOL! MapleStory clone!" thing out of the way, on with the review!
The First Twenty Minutes
Character creation in WonderKing is fairly simple. Unlike MapleStory (where players start off as a classless 'novice'), players choose from one of four starting classes right off the bat. The four starting classes are Swordsman, Mage, Thief and Scout. Unfortunately, WonderKing doesn't have too many options to customize appearance. As is, players can choose from a few different hair colors, eye colors, shirts and pants. That's it.
After creating a character, players start off in the elven forests of Elgaill. The first few 'maps' are filled with mandatory tutorial quests. These quests are both short and informative, so the fact that they're mandatory isn't a big deal. After spending around twenty minutes creating my character and completing the tutorial quests, I can safely say that WonderKing isn't another cheap knock-off of MapleStory. Gameplay is fluid, music is great and the interface is top-notch.
DING! Level Up!
Progression in WonderKing is largely the same as other MMORPGs, with one major difference. There are A LOT of quests in WonderKing, especially early on. I never had to mindlessly grind to gain experience, as I was constantly working on completing a quest or two. What makes the game's questing system even better is that every time you level-up, the game's 'Quests' interface will be updated, explaining what new quests are available and where they can be acquired. Each new level gives players five attribute points (as well as two skill points), which can be allocated into the game's six stats – Str, Dex, Int, Luck, Vit and Wis. The game's experience rate is actually quite fast, at least early on. I was able to get to level 12 on my mage in under two hours, and getting to 15 from 12 took me less than twenty minutes. Keep in mind that while training in WonderKing, it's almost always better to kill higher level monsters slower than killing low level enemies faster. I found that I could gain experience most efficiently at level 16 killing level 30 mermaids. Try not to kill enemies that are too high-level though, because killing monsters that are twice your level or higher will yield significantly less experience than normal.
Players can further specialize their classes by reaching level 30 and unlocking their first job advancement. Each of the game's four starting classes have access to two different 'paths' at level 30. Mages, for example, can become either a priest or wizard at level 30, and depending on their choice, a saint or warlock at level 80. I said 'depending on their choice' because players who opted to become a priest at level 30 cannot become a warlock at level 80. In fact, the game won't even ask you because your job selection at level 30 determines your job advancement at level 80, so choose carefully!
Excellent Interface
The interface in WonderKing is extremely well thought out. It's easy on the eyes and extremely helpful. For example, the game's map clearly shows players what enemies to expect in each area, as well as the level of each monster. This makes it quite easy to locate where to kill certain enemies for quests, as well as good areas to train. Plus, the game's actual minimap clearly marks the locations of all nearby quest NPCs (as well as merchants), making it extremely easy to find what you're looking for. WonderKing also has an auction house in the game's 'Open Market' area, where players can buy and sell items quite easily. I feel that this is worth mentioning, because MapleStory doesn't have anything like this. The English translations in WonderKing are also quite impressive. Overall, WonderKing presents itself quite well.
Few Issues….
One small issue in Wonderking is class balance. Mages are by far the most 'overpowered' class early on. I tried playing each of the game's four starting classes briefly, but after getting used to the damage my mage dealt, playing any other class (at least early on) felt a bit weak. I'm sure the other classes 'scale' better than mages, but mages seem to dominate the early game. Another problem with the game is that there are numerous little bugs and glitches that still need to be worked out. For example, certain items haven't been translated yet, so they appear as gibberish text in the game. There a bunch of these little problems that still need to be addressed, so if you find a bug or a glitch, make sure to report it on the official WonderKing forums!
Lots of 'Extras'
The fact is, WonderKing has a lot of little extras that are worth mentioning. The game has a detailed crafting system (Alchemy, Weapons & Armor and Supplemantary), and resource gathering system (mining). The game's item crafting system is actually quite in depth. Players gain 'mastery' points as they craft new items. The higher the mastery the larger the variety and quantity of items crafted. Players can also combine various items through the game's cooking system, and even enchant their equipment through the enchanting system. WonderKing also has a neat little 'Monster Book' system, where players can collect cards from defeated enemies. After collecting three monster cards from a specific monster, players can change their appearance to look like that particular enemy. It's a neat little feature, although it doesn't really add any actual substance to the game.
MapleStory vs WonderKing
Both games have their strengths and weaknesses. One of WonderKing's biggest weaknesses right now is that it doesn't have nearly as much content as MapleStory. Sure, there a lot of quests, but MapleStory has more. Sure, the game has a large game world, but MapleStory's world is much bigger. Sure, there's a good deal of class variety (four starting classes, 20+ total classes), but MapleStory has much, much more. On the positive side though, WonderKing does offer a few things that MapleStory doesn't, most notably PvP and crafting. Comparing the two games as is isn't exactly fair though, as MapleStory has been available for well over four years now in North America (more than six years in Korea). Odds are, though, if you liked MapleStory, and are looking for something similar to try, WonderKing is well worth checking out. Even if you haven't played MapleStory and are just new to the MMORPG genre, WonderKing is still well worth the download.
Final Verdict – Great
WonderKing is a very 'complete' 2D, side-scrolling MMORPG with plenty of quests, classes, crafting options and much more. Though the game doesn't have nearly as much 'content' as its chief competitor, MapleStory, it's still well worth checking out.
WonderKing Videos
WonderKing Gameplay Video
WonderKing Gameplay Video 2
WonderKing PvP Video
WonderKing PvP Video 2
WonderKing Featured Video
WonderKing Links
Shut down.
WonderKing System Requirements
Minimum Requirements:
OS: Windows XP/Vista
CPU: 800 MhZ Pentium 3 or better.
HDD: 2 GB Free
Graphics Card: NVidia GeForce2 MX400 (64 MB) Or better.
Recommended Specifications:
OS: Windows Vista / XP
CPU: Pentium 4 1 GHz
HDD: 2 GB Free
Graphics Card: GeForce2 FX5200 (128 MB)

subset: commoncrawl


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Located in right field, the Hit it Here Café provides a terrific setting to enjoy a meal prior to or during the game. Service in the Café begins when the gates open - two (2) hours prior to game time.
Select seats in the Hit it Here Café are available for pre-purchase during the regular season, and provide access to a specific location 30 minutes prior to game time through the conclusion of the game. Tickets are not available for purchase on the day of the game.
Counter seats and tables of four are available for purchase on the outside terrace of the Hit it Here Café. Counter seats in the front row of the inside of the café are also available for purchase. Each ticket purchased includes an $18 food & beverage credit.
Advance Reservations:
Reservations are accepted for Full Season, Half Season, Weekend and Business Plan Season Ticket Holders on a first-come, first-serve basis. Season Ticket Holders may call (206) 346-4373 at least 24 hours prior to game time to make a reservation.
Day of Game:
Limited seating is available prior to and during the game on a walk-up basis. Please check with the Hit it Here Café Host at the main entrance to the Hit it Here Café upon entering the ballpark for more details.
Counter seats in the Hit it Here Café and Terrace are accessible to guests with disabilities.


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Moderator: amanda
AK_Weger wrote:just wondering if the group has a camping trip over easter? I would like to book somewhere but would prefer to go with a group :-)
Malcur wrote:We are off to Lake Tabourie (near Ulladulla, south of Sydney). My daughter-in-law is from Philippines and has never been camping, so we thought we would start small and have booked into a caravan park (us in our camper trailer, son & d-in-l in our old tent). If she likes that we might take her bush next time :)
Scolers wrote:We rarely venture out over Easter ... it just get's too crowded and not to mention the twits on the road.
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Ryan Gordon, MathWorks
In this webinar you will learn how to use Simulink® for control design and analysis. MathWorks engineers will introduce key features in the Simulink product family for creating plant models and building sophisticated controllers in an integrated workflow. Through demonstrations, you will learn how to design, simulate, implement, and test control systems within the Simulink environment.
This webinar will highlight the following capabilities:
About the Presenter:
Ryan Gordon has over 4 years of experience with MATLAB and Simulink. Prior to joining MathWorks Ryan developed guidance and control systems for unmanned aircraft.
Recorded: 7 Jun 2012


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Tips for Choosing Carpeting for Your Home
POSTED: Thursday, May 9, 2013 - 12:00am
UPDATED: Friday, May 17, 2013 - 2:00pm
(StatePoint) Is updating your flooring on your home improvement to-do list this season? From color to style to performance, there's a lot to consider. Learn how to find flooring that fits your lifestyle and reflects your family's personality.
"Before getting started, you should ask yourself four important questions about each room you're remodeling," says Keesha Hargis, Director of Home Trends at Flooring America, a national flooring retail cooperative, comprised of 500 independently owned retailers.
•Who uses the room? Is it for the entire family? Is it for guests? Is it a secluded oasis? Will pets be allowed in this room?
• How is the room used? Will the room be used for active living and entertaining or tranquility and solace?
• What's the feel you want? Are you aiming for lively, calming, formal or fun?
• Will your floor be the art or a backdrop? A neutral carpet or floor makes a great canvas for bold furnishings and accessories. But a bright color or boldly-patterned area rug or carpet, combined with simple furniture can transform a floor into the star of a room. When possible, start with a rug and decorate around it.
If your family is busy and active, you may be concerned that your choice in carpet is limited by durability needs. However if you're do your research, you will realize that you don't have to give up, function or comfort.
"Any room can be stylish, trendy and functional with today's carpet options," says Hargis.
No one wants new carpeting that quickly shows matting, crushing and wear, so when reviewing options, look for dense fibers resilient to every day abuse. But don't sacrifice soft surface flooring for durability. "Soft" and "strong" are no longer competing priorities, thanks to manufacturing innovations.
For example, a new, eco-friendly, family-friendly carpet, the Tigressá Cherish carpet, is seventy-five percent finer than current soft carpet standards and has more fibers per square inch than other carpets, allowing for daily wear to be spread more evenly. Its color enhancement system protects each fiber, allowing for deeper color and textures.
Flooring choices today are wide-ranging, so check with a trusted local independent flooring retailer who can offer design and performance recommendations based on your priorities. To find a retailer near you, visit www.FlooringAmerica.com.
By identifying your style and priorities, you can find the perfect flooring for every room in your house.


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Any suggestions on how to deal with boys with autism? If you refer me to my local council, I doubt that will help. They are the most incompetent group of people I have ever worked with on a volunteer basis. Would appreciate references to direct resources if possible. Thanks(This message has been edited by HateTheUniform)
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First I would cop the attitude. Second, see the following below from (I think) Tim Makatura and slightly modified by me.
Increase awareness that BSA makes special accommodations for Scouts with Autism and other cognitive/emotional disabilities. The first step in assisting Scouts with Autism is to increase awareness of what is available within the BSA. It is best to provide this information during recruitment.
Clarify/Verify the diagnosis. In order to qualify for alternative requirements, a diagnosis MUST be made by a Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Pediatrician, Family Physician or Neurologist. This diagnosis helps to clarify the disorder but also helps to rule out other causes for the behavior. This diagnosis provides a name for the particular disability and the diagnostic report, which the Scout leader should have the opportunity to review, may also include general information about the disability, a behavioral description and recommendations for treatment.
Talk with the parents/guardians regarding services provided in the home and school. Most of the activities in Scouting tend to be educational/social and it is important to create the most effective environment for these activities. Since schools and parents provide the childs learning environment, it is important to identify any special services or accommodations that are being provided in the home or classroom environment. These services should be considered when structuring the den or troop activity.
Find out about the particular disability. There are a number of resources to find out about any disability through the National Institute of Health, local agencies, hospitals and support groups. A brief review Autism is provided below:
Autism is a brain disorder that typically affects a person's ability to communicate, form relationships with others, and respond appropriately to the environment. Some people with autism have average speech and intellectual skills while other are mentally retarded, mute, or have serious language delays. For some, autism makes them seem closed off and shut down; others seem locked into repetitive behaviors and rigid thinking patterns. Persons with autism do not have exactly the same symptoms and deficits but they tend to experience problems in the area of social-interactive skills, communication, motor and sensory skills. There are also repetitive and obsessional styles of behavior that are associated with autism. Most children with autism seem to have tremendous difficulty learning to engage in the give-and-take of everyday human interaction. This problem may become evident even in the first few months of life when the child does not interact or may avoid eye contact. There is also difficulty in interpreting facial expression or gestures.
(American Psychiatric Association, 2000)
Find out about the specific disability. Learning about a specific disability like Autism is beneficial, however, there may be significant differences between individuals with the same diagnosis. Therefore, it is important to find out specific information about the cognitive/emotional condition from the parents. With their permission, it is also beneficial to get specifics about the individuals behavior from teachers, therapeutic workers and guidance counselors.
From this information, you should be able to determine inappropriate behaviors as well as triggers for these behaviors. Find out what is being done in the home and in school to address these behaviors. Solicit suggestions from parents and professionals regarding methods to work effectively with the Scout.
Initiate accommodations in the troop meetings and outings. There are a number of ways to develop and carry out accommodations for Scouts with cognitive disabilities. Here are a number of suggestions.
Approach every meeting and outing with a positive attitude (and lose your cynicism)
Insure the safety of the all Scouts. It is best to have the parent attend meetings with the Scout and provide supervision and/or interventions during the Scout meeting. The Scout leader may then decide when that supervision can be lessened or withdrawn.
The parent and Scout leader should determine rules of behavior and consequences for inappropriate behavior in advance. They should also determine if any accommodations should be made for the tasks addressed in the meeting
The Scout leader should review with the group of boys what is expected from them when inappropriate behavior occurs
The Scout leader should inform the parent of the activity a few days in advance so that the child may be better prepared for the activity.
The Scout with a cognitive/emotional disability may need some special accommodations or strategies to help them learn. Many of these accommodations and strategies are simply good teaching methods and are listed below (www.boyscouts-marin.org)
Suggested Teaching Strategies
Tell the Scouts in advance what they will learn
Provide a combination of visual, written and oral instructions since these help the Scout to focus and remember the key parts of a learning activity.
Repeat instructions often
Break large tasks into a set of smaller tasks or steps and monitor for completion of each step Make a written list of these steps and allow the Scout to cross off each step as it is completed. This method may also be used for any number of tasks.
Work on one step at a time.
Allow for extra time for some Scouts to compete certain steps
Have different (and adjustable) activities for faster and slower learners
Try to provide a quiet area with limited distractions.
Create a routine and expectations for each meeting.
Plan short breaks
Provide an area or time where the Scouts can move around and release excess energy.
Establish a clearly defined and posted system of rules and consequences for behavior.
A card or a picture may serve as a visual reminder to use the right behavior, like raising a hand instead of shouting out, or staying in a seat instead of wandering around the room.
Accept and praise each boys best effort in keeping with the Scout Oath. Never make comparisons.
Help everyone to understand that while fair means giving everyone what he need, it is not necessarily equal. (Weinstein, 1994)
What Not to Do
(Experts suggest that if a person with a cognitive/emotional disability could get away from their disability for just a few minutes and write a note to let others how to best deal with their behavior, the note would probably be something like this)
Dont Spoil Me. I know I should not get all I ask for. I am only testing you.
Dont be afraid to be firm with me. I prefer to know where I stand.
Dont use force with me. It teaches me that power is all that counts. I respond better to examples of what I should do.
Dont be inconsistent. Youll just confuse me and make me try harder to get away with anything I can.
Dont make promises you cant keep. I will learn not to trust you.
Dont let me provoke you. If I say or do things to upset you, dont blow up or I may do it again. I dont mean it. I just want you to feel sorry for me.
Dont me feel smaller than I am. Ill just make up for it by acting like a big shot.
Dont do things for me that I can do myself. This only makes me more dependent.
Dont give my bad habits a lot of attention. This only encourages me to keep showing these to you.
Dont correct me in front of others. It is better to correct me quietly and in private.
Don't discuss my behavior in the heat of conflict. I don't hear or cooperate well at this time. Do what needs to be done, but save the words for later.
Don't preach to me. You'd be surprised how well I already know what's right and wrong.
Adapted from (Sloan, 2000)
Review modification of requirements for membership and advancement. The following are the guidelines for membership and advancement in Scouting for persons having disabilities or other special needs. (www.boyscouts-marin)
The Boys Scouts of America follow the definition of disability that is presented in the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. It states that:
"An individual is considered to have a 'disability' if s/he has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (e.g., . . . seeing hearing, speaking, walking, breathing, performing manual tasks, learning, caring for oneself, and working), has a record of such impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment. (www.usdoj.gov).
This definition includes individuals with severe and chronic mental or physical conditions. The ADA also protects individuals who have a record of disability but have recovered or shown significant progress.
Membership requirements may be adapted to meet the needs of the Scout. The chartered organization, with approval from appropriate medical authorities, may allow a youth member to register (based on the above definitions) beyond the normal registration age. The Unit leader (i.e. Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, etc.) must certify the approval of the charter organization for the person to register and the local council must also approve this registration. These situations are decided on an individual basis. The medical condition of all candidates for membership beyond the normal registration age must be certified by a physician licensed to practice medicine, or an evaluation statement must be certified by an educational administrator. Any corrective measures, restrictions, limitations, or abnormalities must be noted. In the case of mentally retarded or emotionally disturbed candidates for membership, their condition must be certified by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist. Current health, medical, or certification records of all youth members beyond the normal registration age who have disabilities are to be retained in the Unit file at the council service center (www.scouting.org).
First HTU, WELCOME!!
Second, Be Prepared for some serious comments about your moniker - FYI, there will likely be a large amount of underappreciation!!!
Third, your Council/District guys probably have answered this question before, so even if you don't appreciate them, go there for possible support. I hope you've already discussed this with the boys' parents, and maybe even doctors. The boy's school is another great source of info about this particular boy.
Autism is not a single thing or single set of circumstances for a child. You can "google" it and come up with many sites and resources that will help you gain background info and very useful knowledge, but this particular Scout probably won't fit any one general category. Autistic kids who function well enough to be Scouts often have a combination of various issues and symptoms. After you've got a good generic background about autism, you'll need to focus on the specifics of this Scout. Chances are you'll need to think of it more as his own "uniqueness" rather than bother with medical terms.
Good luck!! Don't hesitate to come back when your questions get more specific.
ACCO - I started my reply before you posted yours but now that I've seen yours, I just wanted to say THANKS!! I didn't know how to get all that into my post without depersonalizing it to the point of it feeling like a lecture to HTU. GREAT POST!!!!!!! HTU, read it, then read it again, then in a week come back and read it again --- there's GOBS of great thinking in there from ACCO and his source.
(This message has been edited by johndaigler)
I second johndaigler's post. Acco gave an excellent reponse. I add that you may find additional resources in your local community. Look for the local NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) group. They will have both personal experience as well as literature and references to help. For autism, as in all aspects of leading young people, patience is indeed a virtue. Good luck.
Thanks for the kudos but most of the "thoughts" were from others. I just acted as an editor.
Now, about the uniform IHU. Regardless of what you feel about the cloth itself, you must love what the uniform represents. I know I do. In fact, after our weekend campout two days ago I was driving home. At our reflection at the end of the outing I noticed that only four out of eleven boys were dressed in their field uniform. Those who were not in their field uniform were not in their activity uniform either. I reiterated our troop expectation that we travel to and from outings in our field uniform and why. I was carrying four Scouts in my van and was rushing (but obeying the speed limit of course) home so that one of the Scouts could make his afternoon hockey game on time. When exiting the highway I came upon a red light at the intersection to a rural road. No cars to my right and two cars to my left, some distance away so after slowing down I made a right turn on red. Well, one of the cars was a county policeman and he pulled up behind me turned on his lights and I pulled over. He asked if I knew why I was being pulled over and I told him yes, I "ran" the red light. He asked me where I was going (why do the police always ask that now?) and I told him I was trying to get on of the boys home on time for his hockey game. I firmly believe he noticed the Scoutmaster position patch on my shirt, my full uniform and the four 12 - 14 year old boys and decided to just give me a warning. Grateful, as I pulled away, I told the boys that the only reason I did not receive a ticket was because of the uniform I was wearing. It was not because of me, but because of what the uniform represented. Not a proud moment on my part but that will become my SM minute this week.
Thanks for the quick replies to this. Sorry my attitude is such a concern to some but this is how I cope. If it offends, my apologies.
Hi HTU, my son is a high-functioning autistic who is doing very well in scouting. Thanks to scouting he has learned leadership skills with younger members and even Cubs. He is currently working in our council's Scout Shop. He's turning 18 next April and since he should be making Star at the next court of honor, I'm apply for alternative merit badges and hopefully he can go on to Eagle. He started in Scouting at 14 and has learned a lot. Sometimes, I think you just have to go with the flow and see what the lad is capable of. Given the many opportunities that Scouting provides, your Scout may come out better than when he went in. Keep us posted. BTW, the Autism spectrum is supposed to afflict 1 in about 300 kids. My kid is high-functioning but maybe your guy is not--just keep the opportunities coming.
YIS, Sylvia
Thanks for your message and good to hear the program has been of value to your son.
For the record, my den has 2 boys with autism and it manifests itself very differently in each boy. One boy, while pleasant and sweet, is more disconnected to his environment so the challenge with him is getting his attention. The other boy is pretty aware of what's going on but acts pretty aggressively. In both cases, the fathers are there so that is helpful. What is challenging is the frustration the other parents are feeling. Basically, they feel like their sons' cub scouting experience has been reduced to a special ed program. While we have a good size den and great parental involvement overall, there is a tension here. I do what I can to challenge all the boys (even the normal ones are not easy to manage including my high achiever son!) but the 2 autistic boys have a disproportionate impact on the order and flow of den meetings.
I guess what I need to understand is how other den leaders of cubs have dealt with this type of issue -- from the perspective of the kids and the parents.
This forum is remarkable and I appreciate everyone's contributions. Thanks all.(This message has been edited by HateTheUniform)
Hi, welcome to the group.
I don't have any experience with special needs in my den but we did have a boy in my sons class last year. Here is my suggestion.
If the boys with autisim do better at the begining of a meeting I would have them come later to the meeting so that they are still fresh at the end. I would also have them stay later to have a little one on one time with them and their parents to cover what they missed at the begining. This would give them group time but also a more personalized portion too. If they do better latter in a meeting I would switch it around and have them arrive early. I would also suggest the "talking feather " method so that everyone knows whose turn it is to speak out. This could be helpful in keeping the entire group focused on one person rather than watching each other.
Remember, these are just my opinions, I have no training on this subject.
I would highly recommend getting a den chief (or two, but that would probably be pushing your luck) to help work with the den, or even predominantly with the special-needs boy (as long as he gets to do what he's supposed to do throughout the course of his tenure as Den Chief). We had a special-needs boy ("Dave") in our den, and our Den Chief was a great help. He helped plan meetings, and helped out with the cubs when we (my assistant and I) had to be a bit more intensive with Dave. Other times, when we were doing crafts or something, it was easier for him to sit next to Dave and help give him some individual attention while we worked with the group as a whole.
Now, I'm sorry to hear that the other parents are frustrated in that they feel their kid's scouting experience has been reduced to a special ed program. I'm wondering if they are passing this feeling onto their sons. How sad if they are. This is a wonderful way for them to demonstrate compassion to their kids. Maybe some other parents can be a bit more involved with the program instead of standing back and being judgmental? Just a thought..
First how old are the boys?
I understand the frustration the parents of the "normal" kids feel. We have quite a few ADD and behavioral challenged scouts in the troop I serve, its all the influence of having a pediatrician sold on scouting as a committee chair. Having an ADD dyslexic son with a pretty unusual physical condition, I can understand the feelings.
Unrelated, you mentioned your name on the forum is how cope, do you wear the uniform and do the boys of the den know how you feel about it?
I'm glad to see this is helping.
Just a few variations on others' thoughts . . . The Den Chief is a great idea, but maybe better used with the rest of the boys rather than the two Autistic Scouts. The dads might better play that role. You said they're both there, but not what they do. Get their fingers dirty!
Do you know any classroom teachers? Talk with them about "mainstreamed" special needs students and how teachers keep their classes and lessons from focusing so much on the needs of the few that the needs of
The den chief idea is good in theory but I had one for this den last year and he only added to the management challenge, he didn't take away from it. He never came prepared and when he was there he got as wrapped up in the mischief as the younger boys do.
Fortunately, the parents of the autistic boys are always there. However, their management style is reactive -- that is, their boy does something inappropriate and then it gets attended to -- instead of preventive. I'm sure that is part of what they are learning as they help their sons cope with the condition.
Autism is tough, it really is. I'm just looking for practical experiences with this situation to help my understand whether I'm on the right track. When you get these boys focused on something and they do it, it is quite rewarding. Unfortunately, those moments are diluted by a lot of challenging experiences too.
Thanks for the input.
Don't let the packwife fool you. The reference is to the NFL Packers, of whom I am a fan by marriage. We, too, have an Autistic/ADD child in out troop. The parents drop him off despite our requests for someone to stay with him. We have a special needs group in our area that we have directed them too but his parents feel that this is not a good group for him. He does not participate at the meetings, even after repeated instructions. At outings someone needs to be assigned to him because he wanders off. The boys are busy trying to earn their badges and can't watch him constantly. The parents think the other boys do after telling them that is not what is happening. I'm afraid that my childs scout experience is being hindered because he is expected to take care of this child at meetings and outings. I know this child has every right to a scout experience too. I don't want to hinder his either. This has been going on for about 6 months now. Thanks for any input.
Welcome packwife! I have to say that sure is a catchy moniker. I now must inform the forum that packwife is in no way related to packsaddle. Really. At least as far as I know. I could be wrong. I often am. H'mmmm.
Anyway, I think the parents of the boy MUST get engaged in his situation. If they are letting the troop act as aftercare they must be informed that is wrong.
If they are in denial of the problems, they must come to grips with them. The boy is worth the time and I applaud you and the troop for your patience and for doing what you can for him. But your description indicates that the boy is not getting the scouting experience. And if the parents are not supportive, you cannot be expected to take their place. Such is not fair to the troop.
If a private conversation with them doesn't resolve this, then perhaps the minister (assuming your CO is a church) could assist.
edited part: sorry, there was a typo.(This message has been edited by packsaddle)


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Quick Takes On Tom Petty, Steven Tyler And Joe Perry, Kiss, And Bono's Protest Song Agit8
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Tom Petty has worked out a deal for audience members at the Heartbreakers' June 8th L.A. gig at the Fonda Theatre to receive full refunds for their tickets. Although it remains unclear as to exactly why fire marshals deemed that the venue was too overcrowded for the show to continue three-fourths of the way through, Petty is making good for his fans that missed the final 30 minutes of the show.
Petty's representatives posted a message to fans on his website which reads in part: "The satisfaction of fans is of paramount importance to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and the band shares the frustration of the fans in attendance that evening who deserved to experience the entire performance. As a result, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and Goldenvoice are pleased to announce that full refunds for the June 8th show are now available at the point of purchase. We are also pleased to confirm that Ticketmaster has agreed to refund all incurred Ticketmaster fees. Fans who attended the June 8th show at the Fonda Theatre can request a refund with proof of purchase anytime prior to September 10th, 2013."
For more information on how audience members at the June 8th Fonda Theatre can reclaim their money, log on to TomPetty.com/blog.
In addition to being inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame tonight (June 13th) in New York City, on June 22nd, Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and Joe Perry will be inducted into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame at the venue's season opening. Following their induction, Tyler and Perry will perform with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, with other special guests still to be announced. Proceeds from the evening benefit the L.A. Philharmonic and its education programs, which reach more than 120,000 children, teachers, and adults every year.
Kiss drummer Eric Singer is once again on the defensive against fans that yearn for the band's original lineup to reunite -- or at least be the only ones allowed to wear the iconic Kiss makeup. Singer, who replaced Eric Carr in 1991, was sidelined when Peter Criss rejoined the band in 1996, but has been back for a decade -- yet dressed as Criss' legendary "Catman" character. Singer spoke to Radio Nova and said: "The people that want to complain about 'I don't like this,' or 'I don't like that,' 'They should play this song,' or 'I only want the original band. . . ' The bottom line is: this is how Kiss exists right now, in 2013. Be glad there's some version of Kiss and that we're out there touring. We have just as much passion and care just as much as the band ever did or ever could. That's what counts. If we didn't, we wouldn't be here. I mean, Gene (Simmons) and Paul (Stanley) don't need the money; they don't need to do this. They do it because they love doing it." (Ultimate Classic Rock)
A number of artists, including Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Mumford And Sons and Macklemore, have been recruited by U2 frontman Bono for a protest song compilation called Agit8, which is aimed at raising poverty awareness before next week's G8 Summit in Northern Ireland. The compilation is a One Campaign initiative that is featured on the advocacy groups' website. It's evenly split between older material recorded by the original artists and more recent acts covering classic protest songs. You can find the entire playlist, including lyrics, info on the artist and the song's meaning, at http://www.one.org/protestsongs/. (Billboard)
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Midwinter Forfeit
1. Midwinter Forfeit
Gondor's great banqueting hall, Merethrond, glittered and sparkled unusually brightly in the light of hundreds of candles. Finduilas, surveying the brightly colored fabric that swathed the pillars and draped the dais, congratulated herself on giving the Midwinter gathering something pleasant to talk about. The hangings looked set with gems, and speculation as to the cost of the display was probably the other main topic of conversation tonight. Though she knew it was just bits of colored glass, the counterfeit passed easily enough in the throng who crowded the great hall. The crowd surged and ebbed as knots of chattering revelers formed and reformed around the perimeter. The center of the huge hall was the domain of the dancers, whose vigorous leaps and turns kept the crowd from encroaching into the cleared space.
Still, Finduilas regretted the impulse that had made her, in the placid, halcyon fall, order the dais draped ceiling to floor in swags of brightly colored fabric. She had expected to be circulating in the crowd, too heavy to dance herself, and having a place to retreat to that was not totally exposed to the room had seemed only a slightly wicked extravagance. But she was not well enough, yet, to dance the exuberant dances of Midwinter, and felt trapped in her chair placed to the side of Ecthelion's. A warm place of honor, but it isolated her from the festivities behind the billowing drapes that cut off her view of half the hall. She could not even indulge in her favorite festival pastime; choosing a person and guessing what advantage they were maneuvering for by watching whom they talked to and danced with. Too often they wandered into the part of the hall that was hidden from her view.
Thorongil came into her view as the line of dancers changed sides, the movements of the patterns bringing him both to the left hand side of the hall and close to the dais. Unexpectedly, he was dancing more than he was talking this evening but, as usual, he had still chosen a different partner every time. She had not always recognized the woman. Which was interesting, if he was … no, she just could not see enough to speculate. She hardly needed to; his current goal of stopping the Corsairs was no secret. It would have been interesting to see how he was forwarding it at this gathering. She allowed herself a smile. He was certainly waiting to hear what her brother, Imrahil, who had arrived unexpectedly only that day, would tell him about Dol Amroth's support.
Denethor, Finduilas remembered fondly, had been amusing to follow, before they were married. Now she knew his plans and strategies and he often needed her eyes on other people. Yet tonight he had not wanted her to come at all. She knew he was only being thoughtful for her welfare, but she was well again, even if she still tired easily. Still, it had been no hardship to tell her husband she would not dance tonight. He had seen her into her place on the dais and spent a dutiful few minutes by her side, his attention clearly on the lords and captains freely circulating and saying things he could not hear. She had taken pity on him and sent him off to politic more than an hour ago.
His place had been taken by a succession of her ladies, but she had shooed them away to enjoy themselves. They still took the time to see that she needed nothing. She smiled at Lorloth as the girl tried to slip unobtrusively around the hangings with a glass of deep red wine for her. Lorloth's soft brown curls were unravelling around her damp, red-cheeked face and her breath still came in puffs. The offering was obviously as much to give herself a chance to rest as to refresh her lady. She presented the glass to Finduilas with a flourish and sank in a billow of pink skirts onto a stool.
The wine was warm and spiced, and Finduilas sipped at it gratefully. After she put the glass on a small table set next to her chair, Lorloth leaned closer to her and confided, "Oh, my lady. I've never seen Merethrond look so beautiful. Are there a thousand candles burning tonight?"
Finduilas shook her head. There was only one reason for that question. "Only four hundred and sixty three." As Lorloth's face fell into dismay, she added, "But they will be replaced as they burn down. I expect they will use at least a thousand candles tonight."
Lorloth's brow creased and she frowned. "That might be enough to claim the forfeit. I should have just insisted it was a thousand and not asked, although he said you would know."
Finduilas grinned at the artless admission. Lorloth had glimpsed her brother leaving the Warden's chambers that afternoon and had vowed to hunt Imrahil down this evening. He had apparently not run away very quickly. "What forfeit were you hoping to claim?"
Lorloth, whose color had faded to her normal peach complexion, blushed scarlet again. "What every girl asks for on Midwinter; a kiss on the terrace. You'll not forbid it?" she added anxiously.
Finduilas laughed. The terrace was popular, though wind-whipped at this season, and hardly private. "I think you are likely to get your wish whether the answer is correct or not." She tried to school her features into severity, but Midwinter kisses rarely went too far and what was said and done on Midwinter night was traditionally not remembered the next day. Lorloth's only charms were obvious and were probably not enough to hold Imrahil. "Just one kiss, remember! Go. You have kept my scapegrace brother waiting long enough."
Rising and sketching a hasty reverence, Lorloth breathed, "Thank you, my lady!" before she slid back around the drapery and off the dais at the side.
Finduilas watched her leave and then turned back to what she could see of the hall. A dance had just ended; the dancers dispersed to gulp drinks cooled with ice brought from the peaks of Mindolluin, or grab mugs of mulled wine. She knew how refreshing the drinks were for the overheated dancers, and did not grudge the expense. Her wandering gaze found Denethor deep in conversation with the Lord of Lossarnach. Baranbrith, the richest ship owner in Pelargir, leant close, his hand on Denethor's sleeve. Stifling a bored sigh, she silently cursed the tradition that allowed only the most boisterous dances, with judicious breaks between them for recuperation, in the early part of the evening. Her promise to Denethor that she would leave after the supper meant she would miss the few stately dances scheduled later. She would probably have been too tired by then to want to dance anyway, she consoled herself.
Thorongil approached the dais. Finduilas watched him out of the corner of her eye, carefully not making eye contact. As much like Denethor that they could be cousins, yet he had never stirred her in the way that her husband did. Because Thorongil wore Gondor's livery so constantly, it still surprised her that he managed the deceptive simplicity of court dress so effortlessly when it was called for. He did not look like someone of no ancestry who had acquired a veneer of pretty manners and a recommendation to a good tailor. The rich winter green of his tunic was piped in silver and the folds lay evenly, not hitched askew from inexpert tugging.
She noticed that he was wearing that annoying star that must represent something. When she had first allied herself with Denethor, she had thought to help her husband by trying to weasel personal information out of Thorongil, and it still rankled how easily he had misled her. An excited report to Denethor - "He said he moved to Rohan as a very young child." – was met with tolerant skepticism.
"What did he say, exactly, Finduilas?"
She had had to think hard to remember Thorongil's exact words. "He said, 'Perhaps I moved to Rohan when I was too young to remember living anywhere else.'"
Denethor had laughed, tightened his arms and kissed the top of her head. "Perhaps he did and perhaps he did not. You are usually more critical, my dear."
Though she had had a hard time hiding her chagrin at the time, that was one lesson, at least, well learned over the past years.
Ecthelion waved Thorongil up onto the dais. The younger man leaned close and spoke softly to the Steward. The Steward's loud burst of laughter drew her eyes and she saw him slap his knee and guffaw again. Hardly able to speak for laughing, he flapped his hand at Thorongil.
He snorted out at last. "Go, go. Ask her."
Thorongil turned. He took the two steps that separated them and stopped in front of her chair. Finduilas froze her features into as unwelcoming an expression as she dared with the Steward watching her reactions to his favorite Captain. Thorongil made her a very formal bow.
"Will you honour me with the next dance, Lady Finduilas?" His voice was soft and his expression serious, though she could see humor lurking in his eyes and curving the corners of his lips hidden underneath the neatly trimmed beard. Though she had seen him participating in most of the dances since the festivities began, he still seemed fresh. His hair and clothes were only mildly disheveled from his exertions on the dance floor.
"I am not dancing this evening," she told him coolly. "They are all too energetic for me."
He gave her a small smile, but his eyes danced with mischief. "So I knew. The next dance will be a pavanne, if you will be so gracious as to join me for it."
A pavanne! This slowest and most stately of the court dances would not be beyond her endurance, but it was never offered during the Midwinter revels, or at least not until very late in the evening. That he had somehow bribed or coerced the musicians into this breach of custom for a few minutes of very public but uninterrupted conversation with her was intriguing. She thought she knew what he hoped to gain, but he would see that she was not so easily manipulated. She did love to dance. Perhaps the advantage here would not be his.
Ecthelion called an encouragement. "Go on, daughter, dance! It will be no more tiring than a walk around the courtyard." He turned to the men standing next to him and announced in a slightly overloud voice. "Best strategist we have."
Thorongil did not even have the decency to blush at the compliment. He stood respectfully not quite directly in front of her, with a challenging look and eyes that still held a great deal of humor. Finduilas held out her hand. Thorongil took it and drew her to her feet.
"If the Steward commands, I can but obey." She gave Ecthelion a small bow with her head and turned back to Thorongil. "Lead on, Captain."
Still lightly holding her hand in a formal posture, he led her to the edge of the dais. He paused there, and she saw the bandleader catch Thorongil's nod.
The bandleader's stentorian voice filled the hall. "The next dance will be the Flowers Pavanne."
For three heartbeats the great hall stilled, then a questioning murmur ran though the crowd and the attention of the hall turned to focus on them standing at the edge of the dais. She silently applauded Thorongil's sense of theater. The green of his tunic did not clash with the gold and blue of her gown, and he had stopped where the chandelier threw a spot of light onto the edge of the dais. Her hangings sparkled and winked behind them.
"I see that we will be setting a precedent," Finduilas said softly.
"Did you fear we would be dancing alone?"
Thorongil led her smoothly down the three steps to the dance floor and to the favored position to begin the dance. Facing each other, they waited for the floor to fill with other couples.
"You are hoping," Finduilas commented, "that I will give you an indication of Dol Amroth's position on Denethor's proposed action against the Corsairs."
He raised his brows, acknowledging the hit and the opening moves of their game.
Forestalling any comment, she continued, "I could hint around the topic, but, because this is Midwinter, I would prefer to give you the information as a forfeit."
His eyes continued to look amused, though his voice was serious. "It is more than my life is worth, Lady, to be seen on the terrace with you tonight. Lord Denethor is already looking daggers at me for daring to touch your hands in the dance."
She could not see Denethor from where she was standing, but she had no doubt that he would not approve of her plan, though he might well appreciate any information she could glean from it. She tilted up her chin and gave Thorongil a challenging look.
"Would you trade honesty for honesty, Captain?"
"Do I have a reputation for dishonesty?" he riposted lightly, but he could not hide a slight stiffening of his posture.
"You have a talent for evasiveness on some topics, and I believe we both have curiosity we would like satisfied."
The music started. She waited until most of the introductory bars had played and then began the dance with the simplest of four beat bows. She would not give him the satisfaction of a full formal reverence. When it was the men's turn, he gave her the most elaborate of the sixteen beat bows with ease, looking relaxed and controlled though the intricate sweeps and turns. She placed the fingertips of her right hand on top of his left wrist and they started on the first promenade.
"I have already received a summons from Prince Imrahil. My curiosity will be satisfied tomorrow in any case," he told her.
"Then why ask me to dance at all? Surely you can use the knowledge to good advantage tonight?" She knew that he could, and that he desperately wanted it tonight. Until Ecthelion actually gave the orders, the plan could collapse at any time. Denethor was working very hard tonight to counter Thorongil. She knew he knew that she knew. They paced a stately few measures. Her smile broadened.
Thorongil gave a small sigh. "Very well, Lady Finduilas. Tell me and I will answer your questions."
"Oh no, Captain. Answer my questions, and then I will tell you Dol Amroth's decision. You need not fear that I will mislead you at the end. My answers will be as sincere as yours."
His hand under hers faltered momentarily and he had to take an extra-long stride to stay even. Finduilas kept a formal smile plastered on her lips and hoped that Thorongil could see the wicked glee in her eyes as they faced each other again at the end of the promenade. They stepped together and apart, and she began her slow circle around him. When she faced him again, she stepped left and he stepped left, moving them apart. As they came back to the center, he took her hand and bowed. "I agree. Within the limits of my honour and for the duration of the dance, ask what you will."
He began his slow circuit of her and now that she had liberty to ask, she tried to organize the questions she wanted answered most. She discarded obvious questions such as 'where were you born?' He had often given answers that might have been absolutely truthful and were still too misleading. Denethor had not been able to track down any firm information from the clues Thorongil had let slip. He finished his circuit. She stepped right, mirroring his step to the right. They met again in the center and bowed.
"Very well. For the duration of the dance," she agreed. She put her fingers on top of his wrist again as they started the second promenade.
"Where did you get the star you wear?"
He shot her a surprised look. "My mother gave it to me when I reached manhood. She said it was my father's." He paused and she saw his sardonic smile. "And that he had acquired it honestly."
Did he mean to imply that his father was not usually honest? Or was he aware of some of the more scurrilous rumors regarding his parentage and trying to counter them through her? She was wasting her very limited time in speculation better done later. "What is your mother's name?"
That was prompt enough, and definitely new information. He apparently did intend to keep his end of their bargain.
"Your father's name?"
"My mother never told me." There was no mistaking the amusement in his voice.
Surprised, she turned to look at him and blurted out, "Did you not ask her?"
He met her eyes and twitched a smile. "Of course. Often. She spoke his name to no one." Descended as she was from a long line of illustrious forebears, Finduilas felt an unexpected thread of pity. It was one thing to dismiss this man as a nobody, quite another to hear him confirm it. Her face must have shown him her opinions. His expression turned serious and he said, "Even if we both knew my father's name, Lady, I would not be other than I am. "
She turned her face back to the front to escape his far too knowing eyes. He was known as an honourable man, and a good commander. Turning back to him, she saw again his close resemblance to her husband, whose ancestry was certainly impeccable. Thorongil had the manner and the aura of the highest nobility. He might not know his father, but she would swear he had the blood of Gondor and was not some Dunlending shepherd's get. "Do you have anything else of your father's?"
His face was turned away and he was smiling at a passing couple, but he answered her readily enough. "A sword. A ring."
Even Denethor spoke admiringly of his sword: an ancient, pattern-welded blade. "A fine weapon," her husband had said, adding waspishly, "that deserves a better owner."
"I have never seen you wear a ring." They had reached the end of the promenade and he had taken her hands for the next movement. Finduilas glanced down at his hands for confirmation. Tonight would be the time to indulge in jewelry if he owned any, but his hands were bare.
His gaze followed hers down to his hands and he tightened his grasp slightly. "It interferes with my grip on a blade."
That was likely enough. He was certainly a fighter and a mercenary before he was anything else. Something still bothered her about his name. If he did not have the star until he reached manhood… "Do you wear the star because you are Thorongil, or are you Thorongil because you wear the star?"
There was a definite delay this time, but they had also begun the bows and she could not tell what was the cause of his hesitation in answering. They came together.
"The star was first," he said and she thought she detected reluctance in his answer.
Step left, back to the center. She had time for only a hurried question before the pattern of this variation moved them apart.
"What was your name before it was Thorongil?"
They paced opposite circles around a common center, and came together again. Stepped right.
"As a child, I was called Hope."
They paced circles again but this time in the opposite directions. None of the names he had told her so far were common in Gondor, but Gilraen and Thorongil at least were ancient forms. They were speaking the common tongue, Westron. Was his name "Hope' in Westron? Or was 'hope' the translation of the meaning of his name from another language? And which language? If it had been Sindarin, why translate it? The Westron word "hope" had two shades of meaning in Sindarin, and Amdir as a name was common enough. If he had been "Hope" why did he not say his mother was "Wandering Star"? The Rohirrim did not claim him. What other language was there? Dunland? Unlikely. Umbar? Could he be a Black Númenorean? It would explain a great deal. Denethor was convinced that Thorongil was from the north, but Umbar was another source of Gondorian lineage. She eyed her partner speculatively. If he were a Corsair, was he once, or twice, a traitor?
They met in the center and bowed. "Just Hope?" she asked him. "Amdir or Estel?"
"Estel." He shrugged slightly and looked innocent.
Pursing her lips, she placed her fingers lightly on his wrist and they began the third promenade.
She began, "So you have a sword, a silver star and a gold ring…"
"Silver," he interrupted her. "The ring is also silver."
"Little more than a trinket, then. If you do not wear it, why do you keep it?" He was certainly keeping the exact letter of their agreement. She did not care what metal the ring was made of.
"Both Rohan and Gondor have been generous. There has been no need for me to pawn or sell it, but my life has not always been so settled. I well remember hungry times in the wild. Do you grudge me this trinket, as you called it?"
"You ought to be wealthy enough now." Gondor was generous, and a man so highly placed in the Steward's favor certainly had many opportunities to enrich his purse.
He looked affronted. "I would be rich only if I took bribes, sold my influence with the Steward, or stole the funds from contracts at my disposal. I have never done so. I seek only what is best for Gondor, and my own needs are simple."
She knew that was true. Denethor had tried very hard to find evidence of malfeasance against him and there was none. Annoyed with herself for letting him distract her from the question she had started to ask, she began again, "You have a sword, a star and a ring. Denethor has a long line of illustrious ancestors, noble since before the beginning of this age. He is rich, in land, in jewels, in other things. He is the Steward's Heir and will hold the Rod and rule in Gondor. As Captain-General of Gondor's forces, if he wanted the Havens of Umbar raided, he would simply order it done. He has much and you have little."
The music changed signaling the end of the promenade, catching her off guard. She had planned to put the question and demand an answer as they reached this point, getting his first unguarded reaction. Now she feared he would have too much time to think.
"What of his do you envy most, Captain?" she asked as they came together for the bow. At least she had asked the question. His answer, whether he chose power or money or influence, would be revealing.
They stepped left and back to the center. Thorongil looked stunned, his eyes blank, his jaw nearly slack. She smiled at his discomfiture, pleased that she had been able to shake his composure. She paced the four steps away from him that the variation called for, and turned back. She bowed and paced back to the center, meeting him as he mirrored her movements. Hands raised to shoulder height and barely touching, they began to slowly rotate around each other's common center.
"You truly wish to know what I envy most?" His face had regained his normal expression but his brows were raised in question.
"Yes. Very much. Are you finding it difficult to narrow down your ambitions?" Evade this question, Thorongil, and I will see you wait for any more information. She smiled sweetly at him.
"Not at all," he said as they stopped facing in the opposite direction and the music signaled the next move.
Step right and back to the center. She paced out the four steps again, turned and bowed. Four steps back. He held up his hands and she met them with hers. They started rotating back into their original positions. He looked down into her eyes, took a deep breath and let it out with a sigh.
"The woman Denethor loves looks back at him with love. She consented to marry him, and he has already a fair, strong son." Dropping his arms, he completed the variation with a bow and held out his hand for the last promenade.
Only habit enabled her to complete her bow. She knew she must look as stunned as he had moments ago. She pressed her lips together and swallowed heavily, only long training enabling her to assume a pleasant expression. She had never anticipated this. She put her fingers on his wrist.
"You could have any woman you wanted," she breathed out, puzzled, as they started to walk. With Ecthelion's backing, his lack of ancestry was surely no barrier except at the very highest levels of Gondorian society. As far as she knew, Thorongil had never tried to marry, and had, in fact, adroitly turned away several very advantageous offers.
"Would that were true." He kept his face turned straight in the direction of their advance. His arm trembled for a moment under her hand.
It was impossible not to ask, and Finduilas did not resist the impulse. "Who is she?"
He still did not turn his head to meet her eyes, but she saw a slight flush creep up his cheeks. "The daughter of the lord in whose household I fostered." He turned his head and caught her eyes at last. She caught her breath. There was no doubting the intensity of his feelings. "And do not ask her name, for I was never given leave to be free with it. She is a royal lady, and far above me."
One of Thengel's daughters? Surely not. He had not fostered in Rohan, but had come there already a man. Did any from the royal line survive in Umbar? She would remember to ask her husband.
"Why not choose a woman of Gondor and raise your own sons?"
"My heart is inconveniently constant," he said and his voice was again both assured and flippant.
Thinking about it, it did not preclude any ambitions he had towards Gondor. Finduilas could not help smiling. The hard, mercenary captain was a romantic. Did he see himself as one of the great heroes, winning a kingdom and laying it at his lady love's feet? He had best resign himself to carving one out of the wilderness. Thorongil could not have Gondor. Denethor would see to that.
There was time for one last question. "Why are you in Gondor?"
They reached the end of the promenade, and bowed. Stepped left. Came together and linked arms. They started the final variation, walking together around a circle.
"I have seen the Shadow and I must oppose it. Gondor is the last and greatest bastion for the Light and the will of the Valar. I wish to fight against the Dark Lord. There is no better place than here for me to be."
Again, he surprised her. This was no personal ambition of greed or power. Finduilas studied his face, so near and yet at this moment looking remote, drawn. She believed that he had looked on Shadow and rejected it at some cost to himself.
"Umbar is far from Mordor," she ventured Denethor's argument, "the Corsairs should be kept from the coast not attacked where they are strongest. The new ships will be deterrent enough."
Thorongil made an impatient sound. "Foolishness. Denethor's new ships will use resources Gondor can ill afford, and the Corsairs will still be free to build their fleet. They must be prevented from being able to raid, not just stopped from raiding."
She had heard all the arguments many times: Thorongil agitating to take the fight to Umbar; Denethor determined to build three, gigantic ships of war to patrol the coasts. But this time she felt Thorongil's sincerity. They reached the center of the circle, separated, stepped right and back together. They linked arms again and walked in the opposite direction.
"Who …" she began.
He interrupted, "The dance is over, Lady." His voice was almost apologetic.
She examined his face and noted his hopeful expression. She kept him in suspense for another few steps.
"Yes," she said bluntly. He gave her a puzzled look and she realized how ambiguous she must have sounded. Yes, the dance was nearly over. "Yes, you have lost. Dol Amroth supports Denethor. The great ships will be built in our shipyards, and there will be no war against Umbar. Imrahil is empowered to negotiate the details."
He stared bleakly into her eyes and his lips tightened into a frown. ""Even Denethor admits it will take a year or more to build those ships and many thousands of men to crew and maintain them."
Finduilas patted his hand. "It would take more, much more, to bring war to Umbar. Denethor's new ships will be bigger and fiercer and faster than anything the Corsair's use. They will not dare to come to our coasts, and if they do we will crush them."
He smoothed his face into blandness and turned his smile on her again. "Thank you, Lady," he said lightly. "I will endeavour to be surprised at the council tomorrow."
She suffered a qualm, though she did not know how he could turn the information to his advantage in the few hours left of the revelry. He had lost this skirmish, but she knew that what she saw in his face was not defeat but calculation.
"And you?" he asked her. "Will you keep my secrets?"
Denethor was her husband, but she was a daughter of Dol Amroth and had her own honor. "I will say nothing of your lost love, Captain. Things said at Midwinter are not repeated on the morrow."
They finished their circle, and bowed. The music died to silence. He held her hands for a moment longer, and then released them.
Denethor strode over and insinuated himself between them, a black storm cloud in his ebon gown. Thorongil took a step backwards.
"Thank you for the dance, Lady Finduilas," Thorongil said, bowing again to her and Denethor.
"You are very welcome, Captain Thorongil. It was thoughtful of you to arrange it."
"You must take care not to tire yourself, my dear. Come, let me take you back to your seat." Denethor took her arm and led her off. As soon as they were out of earshot of the Captain, he said, "Had I thought it wise for you to dance, I would have arranged it myself. Your conversation seemed very animated. What did you talk about?"
She patted her husband's arm and gave him a soft smile. "Just commonplaces."
The Pavanne is a real dance. I made up the choreography of this one to suit the purposes of the story.
This is a work of fan fiction, written because the author has an abiding love for the works of J R R Tolkien. The characters, settings, places, and languages used in this work are the property of the Tolkien Estate, Tolkien Enterprises, and possibly New Line Cinema, except for certain original characters who belong to the author of the said work. The author will not receive any money or other remuneration for presenting the work on this archive site. The work is the intellectual property of the author, is available solely for the enjoyment of Henneth Annûn Story Archive readers, and may not be copied or redistributed by any means without the explicit written consent of the author.