~ * ~ Basic survival guide to Middle Earth ~ *~
Series One
With so many younglings deciding to explore lands far beyond their own, it seems only prudent to write a few tips on how to survive alone or with a small group of companions in these troubled times.
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~ Equipment ~
First of all, you must make sure you have all equipment you will require on your journey - usually this will consist of;
- Weaponry ~ be it sword, dagger, staff or bow.
- Food ~ only take at most a weeks worth, you do not want to be weighed down should you need to move quickly.
- Flint.
- Armour ~ do not fret if you do not have heavy armour made of metal, as long as it can protect you in vital areas, it will do for your journey.
- Coin ~ should you find yourself in a town, you may wish to spend the night or perhaps two to restock wares or even repair armour.
Should you be a craftsman, you must also remember to pack the tools of your trade, which will help greatly when you are in a settlement and out of coin, selling wood, ore or leather will earn you enough for a meal at least.
Another thing that I would personally say is to find yourself a horse - wondrous creatures that are fast on land and more importantly can carry some if not most of your equipment, leaving you more agile. ~ * ~
~ Running errands ~
Something that would be good to consider is how well you can survive by yourself. Often one will meet others during their journey, and if you are lucky they are people that are heading in the same direction . Remember to be wary of those you meet but if you can help each other to get to your destination safely then you would be better off with them than alone.
It is important when traveling to help those in need, be they of your race or not. This is a torn world we're living in, and to lend aid will only ever benefit you and those around you. Though, keep in mind that you will always have your limits, and although tempting, there are some tasks you will not be able to take on by yourself.
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~ Strange lands ~
Despite whether you are Elf, Dwarf, Hobbit or Human, all of us can feel peculiar in the lands of others (especially when you are alone). Unfortunately it is true that you should not be overly trusting, however being friendly and helpful is your best bet of surviving in foreign settlements - to those with prejudices of other races, you may well be surprised with the hospitality you receive.
Be respectful of other cultures, and however insane it may seem to you, never question their rituals or cultural differences to yourself - it may be discussed, but make sure you are polite!
Interestingly enough, if one is accepted into a settlement of another race, you may be taught something of the fighting techniques and learn something extremely useful for your journey.
~ * ~
Stay wary and journey through the land cautiously, but travel broadens the mind and you'll meet some wonderful people on the way! Some more tips will be coming up in series two!
(OC: Pictures from: www.lotro.com, mymiddleearth.com, img.joke.co.uk and by using Azleas Lotr - only for benefit of this, not for any other purpose.)
