We are moving forward with the formation of the Numenorian Guard (NG,) an Endgame focused group.  For this group, the process is beginning towards the recruitment of pure-bred leadership, able to enjoy and sustain a "raiding" guild. 

The purpose for this move is simple.  Although purely casual endgame does and will continue to happen within SoN, we would gain by having a "hardcore" counterpart, which was at once stand-alone, yet a part of our extended family.  Those wishing to put a level capped Alt in NG could do so, those in NG wishing to "vacation" from the grind, would be able to send a character to SoN.  Ideally, this new group would as part of their operation, help SoN members gain access to the highest of Endgame but sponsoring a few events with us, helping our more casual members as their time allows, etc.

Trying to do this under one Kinship is simply not workable, as our group presently is setup.  The kind of rules, mandates, penalties, and general feel of a true raiding group doesn't mix well with what is a truly casual group in SoN.  

Likewise, moving into mid-2011, Sons of Numenor will also have a Guild in Star Wars: The Old Republic.  This setup we are going to pursue will work well for that game.

What are we going to do with Star Wars: The Old Republic?  First, SoN - LOTRO is and will remain the "mother ship."  Yet so many of our membership have an interest in ToR, including myself, that for some of us, being able to "stay in the family" with both games is highly appealing.  There will be a separate website (already in an advance state of construction,) calender, etc.  We will benifit here because recruiting in ToR will promote the fact that those players can come here and enjoy LOTRO with us.  Above all else, none here should be let this long-term development worry them.  We'll always be here.  This is simply a means for some of us to enjoy both worlds.  Experience suggests being able to escape to ToR will actually refresh and recharge members and help prevent burn-out.