Fantasy - Middleearth

Tolkien's Vision

What J.R.R. Tolkien dreamt must always remain the driving influence for what we create. All things done must be closely tied to his descriptions and accounts.

Although personal creativity is encouraged it must be plainly connected to the written word and his visual art. It is clearly found in his personal correspondence that he wished to create a setting for others to delve and create. It is in his honor that we attempt to bring to life a glimpse of his world.

Origins start from a group called The House of Cardolan and are a loyal and enthusiastic member group of the Middle Earth Historical Reenactment Society (MEHR),

Dagorhir Battle Games, and TheOneRing.net - The House Cardolan is subject to the rules and guidelines therein. However, they are a self governing entity and reserves the right to conduct the internal affairs of the company by it's adopted bylaws.

The House of Cardolan ruled the Kingdom of Cardolan after the division of the Northern Realm of Arnor (861 T.A.). After the fall of the kingdom (1636 T.A.) a distant remnant of the ruling house survived in Arthedain and afterward maintained the bloodline as Rangers of the North.

Character Development

Each Ranger will research a warrior's persona from the Third Age of Middle Earth's history. A complete chronicle will then be created of that character's life and how he relates to the world around him. Tolkien's writings must be the primary guide. Generally historical models can be used but not slavishly adhered to. A Ranger's creativity can be used as long as it is consistent with Tolkien's vision and the outlines of House Cardolan.

Attire

Typically we Rangers wear loose tunics and trousers (for mobility & comfort), high boots to protect against mud, and long, hooded cloaks. These tunics are cinched by a broad sword belt with perhaps a prominent buckle. The clothing should be made of a thick & sturdy, yet somewhat soft fabric, all in various shades of green, brown, and gray. In especially cold weather it would be appropriate to have additional layering of perhaps a sleeveless sheepskin vests. There should be no inappropriate modern equipment (ie. plastic, rubber etc.) worn externally.

House Cardolan will also have a formal uniform that must be worn at certain times. It shall consist of a dark blue tunic, gray undergarments and trousers, black leather, and a gray cloak. Armor should be used in limited amounts. Any type of leather is appropriate as well as chainmail. Stealth and quickness is the greatest weapon of the Rangers so therefore plate armor, except in very limited fashion, would not be appropriate. Tolkien's only description of a Ranger's armor was that they possessed a helm, so therefore, employing one is perfect. Though he does not mention the Rangers using a shield, it can be postulated, that within a pitched battle they certainly would have used them.

Weapons for the Rangers were only mention once by Tolkien and he indicated they were equipped with a bow, spear, and (of course) a sword. Certainly daggers and dirks are acceptable. These therefore are the only types that should be used.

Attributes of a Ranger or Lore Master

Historical Knowledge: A Ranger must be a scholar and have an extensive working knowledge of the First, Second, and Third Ages of Middle Earth. He must know of the history of the Dunedain and the role that that great culture has played in the Ages past. It is imperative that a Ranger be a student of lore and be able to communicate his knowledge in a meaningful way to the world around him. Therefore he must submit to several devises that test a man's worthiness to be deemed a Ranger of Cardolan.

The Secret Service: A Ranger's service is prepared for and executed in such a way that the realm is largely unaware of the effort. In brief, a Ranger is the opposite of the "bright and shiny men of Gondor". A Ranger, in no way, seeks the praise and attention of the others. A life of selfless sacrifice and solitary effort are what he can expect. Harsh and lonely is the Ranger's world and often his actions are misunderstood and deemed unseemly by the very people he attempts to protect. Drawing attention to oneself or his actions can be a mortal mistake and greatly damage the efforts of House Cardolan. It will not be tolerated. Extroverts beware; if this description does not appeal to you then fit for a Ranger you may not be.

Woodcraft: A Ranger's ability to use the landscape around him is his greatest armor. A Ranger's woodcraft skill must be constantly improved upon and though a mastery is seldom attained, progressive improvement is all that is required. A Ranger in the wilderlands must be a formidable force.

Of Becoming a Part of House Cardolan

The foremost factor must be a desire to bring to life a glimmer of the world J.R.R. Tolkien created. One must be driven to create a persona that fits with his creation. Whether to become a Ranger or Lore Master for the House Cardolan one must demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the Tolkien world. An acceptable score upon an approved Tolkien exam must be accomplished in order to join the House of Cardolan.

Lore Masters are those among the House who possess the mastery of history pertaining to Middle Earth but wish to not participate in all or some of the physical activities. They have an equal standing to any in the House. Those individuals who are pursuing this course are called Stewards until all requirements of Lore Master are fulfilled. Rangers must possess a great amount of the Lore, Marshall Skill, and Woodcraft. Until an individual passes the testing process he may participate in all activities under the title of Ward. More...