As a long time e-mail gamer, I've found that while PBeMs and Message boards may move slow, the quality of the role-playing is usually about 300-500% better than face-to-face gaming.
I know for me, in face-to-face, I can get caught up in the moment and start reacting to situations as myself, and not the character I am playing. With e-mail or message board games, you can sit back and ask yourself, "Okay, now what would [pc's name] really do in this situation?"
I must add in my congrats to the two people playing the Initiates. You've captured the essense of playing a Jordan female type so much that it's scary.
You' re doing a fine job, Ash. I can't wait to see the reactions when you "come out", especially my own. I think that it will definatly be one of many high points in the game.