1996-02-18
Recovered original text · preserved verbatim
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NEVERWINTER NEWS
Issue # 121
Week Ending 2-18-96
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FRONT PAGE
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Well, if was a very tough call to select a winner this past week. This last
batch of
entries was by far the best in recent memory. But someone must be selected
and
since it was Valentine's Day and this reporter loves romance...
Congratulations to Syren Coal for winning last week's News of the Realm
contest with
"Love in Neverwinter".
Syren has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of
Heroes).
Keep up the good work! ;D
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Inspite of the odds, Moander14, PasterLord, LordBoston, and NWA Vic survived
Vilnask
to free Willo. Moander was heard to question the integrity of a Drac Basher
who would
kill those poor helpless creatures over and over but Willo rewarded the
sneaky crew
well. None returned quite as new as they departed except maybe Vic.
Vic
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Charm Person Booth winner!! 2/11 12am EST
The winner of this event was Abbzzsta1n. Congrats!!
Lethe
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Trivia - February 6, 1995
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*** First Place - LCData1701 26 points! ***
** Second Place - Llwedoc 24 points! **
* Third Place - Dwyvyrn 24 points! *
Random Drawing Winner - Shadeblood
Due to a tie for second a roll-off was held.
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The winners will have the time credited to their account and pearls credited
to their
screen name.
* First Place - 4 FREE hours and 25 Pearls
* Second Place - 3 FREE hours and 20 Pearls
* Third Place - 2 FREE hours and 15 Pearls
* Random Drawing - 5 Pearls
Congrats and thanks from NW Baldor and NW Strahd : )
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February Guild of Heroes Booth #1 Winners - 2/13/96.
"February GoH booth #1 went underway and contestants were asked to withstand
damage from cause critical wounds. Since this was a hi/lo booth, contestants
could
also try to see if they could be the biggest bleeder! ;>
Congratulations to Gherkin II (who took the lowest damage) and Llewdoc (who
took the
most)!"
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winner#1:gherkin ii
prize:6 pearls
winner#2:llewdoc
prize:3 pearls
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Sitting high in the rafters of the Great Hall Tavern, Cupid was
bored...................... what could make this evening a real challenge
for his sharp eye and sharper aim with his fine long bow and magical arrows
of love? Watching the tavern patrons wooing and drinking and laughing and
singing, he lounged up high and waited, hoping something, anything might
happen to strike his intere----
Dwyvyrn, Dwarf legend of Neverwinter and beyond, strided into the Tavern.
This was it!! Cupid had never been able to hit him with an arrow despite his
heavy drinking. At least one kiss, that was it, he had to make it happen.
Aiming true, Cupid sent an arrow down to the lady sitting closest to the
Dwarf, Syren Coal the singer that praised and pitied love with all the
wonderful nuances and bitter-sweet notes of a clear, floating voice.
Cupid watched as she calculated and created her method of attack to get the
one thing she wanted now more than any other... a kiss from Dwyvyrn. High in
the rafters, Cupid saw the impish glint in her eye and Dwy's frustrated
manner in response to her ploy; Cupid saw Dwy's desperate plea for help from
fellow tavern-goers, and the backs they turned with watchful glances to the
couple over their shoulder. And finally, he stepped forward, set his hands
on Syren's beautiful, heaving shoulders and pressed his lips to hers........
Cupid grinned, he had not had as much fun since Metr0n's sixth marriage. He
grinned still as he flitted out one of the hat-shaped holes in the roof and
moved on through the eve, armed still with his arrows of love, arguably the
most chaotic of weapons.
Cyane
The Cupid Watcher
Congrats to this "couple," tho I'm not sure if we should call them that, but
they did win for "best" couple of the evening. However, I want to truly
thank Abzzsta1n, Abzzcesse, Ldy Beacon, Mech Loner, ITB Skorp, and ITB Teddi
also for entering and making such wonderful posts!! I truly enjoyed reading
them and I know others did as well. :)
Dwyvyrn and Syren Coal will soon be featured in a Quest from Lord Nasher for
their efforts (no matter how painful they were for Dwy <grin>.)
NWT Cyane
Neverwinter Tavernkeep
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NEVERWINTER CALENDAR
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Keep an eye peeled for those Mini-Booths because they will appear when you
least expect in different areas of the Realms!
Can you be at the right place at the right time when the NW calls for a
location?
Keep your eyes and ears open for these events! Watch for the banners!
New Player Tours:
Join the following staff members for a tour of the Realm:
February 18th Sunday 9:00 PM EST - with NW Mystek.
February 19th Monday 11:00 PM EST - with NW Thorn.
February 22nd Thursday 11:00 PM EST - with NW Ulfius.
February 24th Saturday 6:00 PM EST - with NW Lenox.
Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner
telling where to meet! ;D
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The Raven
(Submitted by: Riklaun)
Chapter 7
Riklaun wandered into Crossergate from the hills. He needed to get
some supplies from town. As he walked down the street in the shadows, he
heard someone coming down the road. Putting his hand on his hilt, he
prepared himself for battle. Uttering the words, "Amin quella" he slowly
faded from view.
TadsBro1 walked casually down the road. He had heard about the
problems with Riklaun and knew them to be untrue, but he felt obligated to
find out for himself. He knew that his life long friend could not be the way
everyone is saying. He thought back to the days of the Elven Brotherhood and
how Rik had taken him under his wing and helped him obtain high status in the
guild. RIk had even seen to it personally that he be admitted into the Grey
Company when they merged. Tad felt aloof and carefree because he would prove
everyone wrong.
Tadsbro1 wandered into the inn and paid for a room. As he turned to
go to the room, he saw Riklaun standing behind him. "Vedui' cousin." Riklaun
said. A smile was on Riklaun's face. Tad returned the greeting. "What
brings you into these parts?", Riklaun said.
"I was attempting to find you." Tad said, "I wanted to find out why
people are saying bad things about you." Riklaun looked puzzled, but still
smiled. "People always look for the bad things in someone. I was feeling
remorse for Braldt and got a little carried away, but I am all right now."
"I am relieved." TadsBro1 said, "I knew you were okay. You could not
do the things people said you did. The stories some people weave! I was
even told you had killed DreemKnght." Tad felt the aura of the good elf
before him. He knew the truth of Riklaun. He was good after all.
"Tad, let us go and adventure together." Riklaun said. "Let us go
combat the evil force surrounding the south part of the city." Riklaun spoke
of the Dracolich lair in the southern most portion of the city. TadsBro1
said he had never fought a Drac, let alone see one.
Riklaun and Tad memorized spells together and then set out. They
both went Invisible with Riklaun in the lead. Rik opened a secret door and
walked through. As they walked through a door to the south, they were beset
upon by trolls. Riklaun's eyes glimmered as he came into view casing a
spell. The Fireball flew from his fingertips and exploded into the midst of
the monsters. The Hobgoblins were incinerated, the Margoyle melted into the
floor and the trolls burned.
TadsBro1 yelled out "Burn them!" and he came into view. The trolls
were getting back on their feet when Rik cast another spell. A loud clap of
thunder could be heard as the first troll exploded. The lightning bolt
burned a hole through the second troll. The gleam faded from Rik's eyes as
he turned to Tad.
"Do not let your self get caught off guard. This place is tricky.
The monsters here are tough." Riklaun said. They continued on until they
got ambushed by an earth elemental and several undead. Riklaun rushed the
elemental and dispatched it with several temla pilini'. Tad took care of
the undead with a well placed fireball.
Riklaun eyed the far door. "This way Tad." he said. Riklaun threw
open the doors to the room wide and walked in. TadsBro1 walked in behind
him. The Dracs came out from the corner of the room. Tad whirled and
brought out his sword. He fumbled with a fireball spell but miscast it,
exploding the spell only feet from himself. The lead Drac, unfazed by the
Braggolach Tel'llach, gazed at Tad. Tad stood transfixed by the gaze. The
Dracolichs pounced on the helpless elf. Riklaun looked on with a smile on
his face.
The bold magic-user, Torm the All-Purpose Seeker, enters Vilnask
searching for the beautiful Nalynn. He hears a soft cry from Crossergate,
and he rushes to the spot. It is indeed the incomparable Nalynn, surrounded
by heathen undead and spies. He joins the battle with a fierce lightning bolt
that instantly dispels the wisps of a banshee, and then easily puts down the
spies with several missiles of spellfire. He takes Nalynn back to the Vilnask
inn, where they meet privately in the back room.
When he questions Nalynn about Braldt2, the ring flares with energy,
blinding both for an instant, and leaving both with a truly vicious headache.
Realizing the ring as a product of the dark arts, he quickly enspells it with
a Remove Curse and a Disentegration to destroy the held forces around it. The
dark tendrils of magic shatter into crystalline shards, while the ring drops,
inert, to the floor. Nalynn is grieved by the sudden loss of her ring, which
was given to her by... she realizes she can't remember.
Torm swiftly corrects her grief by presenting her with another
ring... this time with diamonds set in finely crafted dwarven gold. It only
takes a second for the witty Nalynn to realize what this means, and she sits
down, bepuzzled by the situation. So many rumors about a man named Braldt2...
she doesn't know what to think. Comforting her, Torm fills in the details.
She was married to Braldt, but he has been gone for many, many months now.
He briefly explains about the fate of Warriors of Peace, but,
realizing he doesn't know as much as he should, recalls his druidic art and
enspells her loyal falcon with the gift of speech. A few moments later,
Nalynn comes out of the room where she has been discussing with the falcon
and pondering her fate. She says to Torm: 'I shall give you my decision if I
am to marry you or not on the eve of Christmas Day.' They then retire for a
night of cavorting with trolls, banshees, and bandits.
She rests in seclusion in a back room of the Inn. Her falcon,
recently granted the gift of human speech, tells her the entire story of her
previous life with Braldt2 and her amazing recovery and transformation
following her brutal murder at the hands of the vile elf Riklaun. 'Tis a
tragic story and she is still not certain she believes it, for no memory
remains of the valiant Braldt2. Even the tapestries in the meeting hall are
mostly silent regarding his achievements - save for some obscure references
to a vicious little creature called WUBPIG.
"Oh Falcon, what should I do? If 'tis true that I am married, dare I
even consider the proposal made by the dashing SK Torm? Is it right for me to
consider wedding another when no clue exists to the whereabouts of Braldt?"
She looks at the Elfin figure in the mirror - which looks back at her. "If it
is true as you say, Falcon, that I WAS once a mere halfling thief, but am no
longer, then perhaps it is also true that this transformation has nullified
more than just my former self. We must find a barrister and consult on this
matter. I wish no future trouble for myself or dear Torm in the event Braldt
returns."
She summons the innkeeper, and bids him deliver a note to the local
barrister. The innkeeper leaves understanding the urgency of her request -
rumors spread fast in this community and the sooner she receives her answers,
the better.
Chapter 8
The chill stood in the cold winter air. Riklaun's feet made nary a
sound in the crunchy snow. He stood in a glade. He bent down to check the
tracks he has been following. "Belareth must be around here." he thought.
The tracks have led Riklaun into the particular glade. This is the glade in
which Belareth stood against Riklaun along side Wild Wil.
Commotion could be heard coming from down the trail. Riklaun looked
up and saw Belareth leap off the trail. Rik's eyes gleamed with hatred. He
stood and pulled out his swords. Noise was heard from behind him. He
whirled and saw four humans coming down the road. He prepared himself for
battle.
As he cast the pela tanya tampa aiguldur, two more stepped up from
behind. "Seems you have a bit o' trouble friend." Arkeon X said. The battle
ensued with WG Elgar facing off to Riklaun. "I am not your enemy Riklaun.
The Sisters X are."
Riklaun cast a spell and WG Elgar slowed his advance. "So, it would
seem that you ARE against me. I shall defeat you." he said. Elgar cast
several spells at Riklaun. None worked on his behalf. Their blades clashed
and the sounds of Bladedancing could be heard. Rik, sensing danger, backed
up and a wolf jumped upon Elgar. This gave him the opportunity to cast
n'tess uuvanimo. Wg Elgar had a look of shock upon his face as two ice
hounds closed in for the kill. Riklaun patted one on the head after they
were done killing their prey.
Riklaun looked out over the glade and saw Arkeon X in a corner
fighting for her life. Savemee was pinned against a wall with several ice
hounds breathing down her dress. Mizzen X had caught DTA Always in a hold
and he stood defenseless. The paladin had hoped to keep alive. He did not
want a wolf to see him like this. Riklaun smiled. He cast several magic
missles out towards DTA Always. DTA Always' eyes widened as he saw the
missles streak across the battle field. The hold spell ended and DTA Always'
lifeless corpse fell to the ground.
Lord Smaug stood facing off with Arkeon X. Mizzen X was preoccupied
with several wolves, some of which were silenced. Riklaun cast a fireball in
the direction of Arkeon X. The ball exploded and consumed Lord Smaug. She
had gotten caught in part of the blast but was thankful her attacker was
vaporized.
Just then, mists grew and two Vampires came into the glade. V
Starfire came into view and rushed Mizzen X. V Asmodius went after Arkeon X.
Riklaun looked over at Savemee and saw the sorrow on her face. She had been
trapped against the wall since the beginning and the wolves were biting her
all over. Riklaun loosed a lightening bolt toward her and it struck home.
The bolt lashed through three wolves bodies before it ended, missing her.
Wiping the stars from her eyes, she looked to Rik and said a silent thank
you to him. Rik only smiled as the Ice hound leapt on her back driving it's
jaws into her spine.
Riklaun pulled out a scroll and cast a spell from it. He threw the
blank paper away as the hold spell hit V Asmodius. V Asmodius whirled to
Riklaun for his interference but got hit again by Arkeon X. He started to
trip over himself. V Starfire floated down in front of Riklaun, blood in
it's teeth. The vampire cast a spell and his hand glowed. Riklaun backed
off evading the spell enchanted hand. He backed off, blades parrying. He
was low on spells.
"What be goin' on 'ere?" came from the brush. A stout dwarf by the
name of Wolfrider came out. "tis not a place 'fer doin' battle, I says." his
accent was thick with slurs, making him out to be a northern dwarf.
Wolfrider came bounding in and cast two holds. One at Riklaun and one at V
Starfire. Riklaun shook the effects of the spell off and slid into the
underbrush. V Starfire backed away, seeing Arkeon X running down the trial.
It chased after her.
Riklaun whirled toward the Dwarf. Hatred flamed in his eyes, for he
had a run in with him before. " 'ere now, don't you be dat elfie that I saw
drooling a while back?" Wolfrider said. Riklaun pulled out another scroll
and started to cast. " 'ere! what do ye think yer doing? Do ye not know who
I am?" he said. Wolfrider cast a fumble spell at Riklaun. The spell
fizzled. From behind he heard Arkeon say: "Go Rik go!"
Riklaun's spell burned in his mind. He spoke the words written on
the paper. "Amin vasa lle sinta!" the spell lashed out and caught the dwarf
full in the chest. He stumbled backwards. " 'ere now, what twas that ye
just said? I've 'alf a mind to....." With that Wolfrider plopped down and
began sucking his thumb. Riklaun smiled at the sight. The remaining wolves
wandered over to Wolfrider and began licking the drool off his beard.
Riklaun turned to Arkeon X and gave her a salute. He then walked off
into the woods, two ice hounds trailing behind, playfully nipping at his
heels.
Interviews From the Other Side of The Blade
"Gormash Blacktooth and The Warehouse District"
(Submitted by: Arik Wifana)
Vedui' Neverwinter News, my name is Aric Wifana' member of the world renowned
Grey Company. I have been putting together interviews with various creatures
and personalities from Neverwinter and her surrounding lands dedicating them
to get the other side of the blade, a view from the other side. I hope you
like what you read here and enjoy the humor herein.
As you know orcs and all other pig based life forms in the Realms have been
our sworn enemies since the dawn of time. Have any of us ever stopped to ask
what it's like on the other side? Why the garbage-eating monsters continue
be sword fodder to the world? I'm sure the rest of the Elven and er... less
perfect races of Neverwinter have many questions about the orcs of the
warehouse district. To gain some insight into this foreign world I entered
the warehouse district in search of the clan leader Gormash Blacktooth, with
only my faithful sidekick and semi-pack animal Lupus the halfling.
After wandering several old buildings that to any who have been there smell
worse than being downwind from a dwarf, we finally found a lever where a
torch had been. So I pointed it out to Lupus and asked him to look for traps
while I pulled the lever. The clumsy halfling fell right into the pit below
and didn't even ask if I was OK? After lowering myself down and using Lupus
as a step stool (I knew he was useful somehow) I heard the familiar charge of
several orcs screaming in their guttural tongue. After flame broiling orc
after orc they finally began to flee but they didn't get far. I made a deal
with them to bring me their chieftain for a small price and their lives and
they obeyed. Lupus and I set up camp and I bade him cook up some fine mutton
we had purchased earlier. After an hour or so the orcs returned with their
fearless chieftain bound on a stick being carried toward us. I thanked the
pitiful creatures and offered them some platinum pieces from my pouch but the
wretched things insisted on taking the many copper pieces? Oh well not
wanting to offend any of them I obliged and sat down to the fine meal Lupus
had prepared and began my long awaited interview with Gormash Blacktooth.
Gormash at first declined to speak and I thought my quest had been in vain
until I noticed the way he was eyeing my plated of mutton. So in order to
accomplish my mission I heroically snatched the mutton chop from Lupus's hand
and turned over his food to the wide eyed orc. As the orc prepared to take
his first bite, I immediately understood where he received the name
"Blacktooth." So after a brief introduction and a short conversation about
the fine bridgework offered at the dentist in Port Llast we began....
Aric: So Gormash you and your clan have inhabited the warehouse district for
years why do you stay?
Gormash: blurg.. blug.. meme. wah. (oh sorry allow me to translate directly
from here). Much room, safe from sun smell good here, besides we have indoor
plumbing.
Aric: Ah good reason, I think... So tell me what do you fear most about
living here?
Gormash: Most feared when the "fiver" comes!! Me run and hide then!
Aric: Fiver? Do you mean the fever like a plague or disease?
Gormash: No! No! Fiver is person needing five experience to go up level! Bad
things!! Very bad things Gormash seen!
Aric: Oh I see, yes well you and the rest of the small forest animals.
Gormash: You not need five experience Gormash hope??
Aric: No, no I am still a few thousand away but I'll keep you in mind if I
do. Now the next question. So what do you do with your free time?
Gormash: Me enjoy finer things like mudbaths, cave drawing, and double
decker rat tacos!! Mmmm Gormash favorite, gooder than lamb!!
Aric: Er.. how interesting
Gormash: You come to Gormash home and try sometime, mate makes best tacos
this side of Neverwinter River!!
Aric: Yeah well anyway so tell me...
Gormash: You gonna finish that?
Aric: Why no here help yourself. As I was saying, don't you get tired of
being beaten up by adventurers?
Gormash: Me not mind, it's not bad as old days, great retirement plan, me
know have 401k plan!!!
Aric: Have you inquired about a dental plan? Just kidding, what are your
plans for the future of the warehouse district?
Gormash: Me talking to real estate people and few council members. Me
trying to get district re-zoned so can start building condos.
Aric: Ahh.. that would have been my second guess...So....
Gormash: Akk, <choke!>, <gagg>, heee...
Aric: Gormash you know it's impolite to chew with your mouth open now stop
this instant!!!
Gormash: Ahrk!, Glug, gurggle
Aric: Why are you holding your throat? Now stop now and act civilized for
once I mean it!!!!
Well I had to end my interview abruptly as my assistant Lupus leaped onto
Gormash's back, made a fist with his two hands and started pulling against
Gormash's stomach. It took a few swings with the butt of my sword but I
finally managed to pry that stupid halfling off Gormash, but it was too late
the silly halfling had already killed him?? I had no idea Lupus was that
strong and bloodthirsty?? Oh well in light of my short interview I hope you
have witnessed a new perspective on things. Stay tuned next moon as I get
behind the scenes of Neverwinter's various inn keepers, as I attempt to
retell their stories!!
Remember, the truth is out there...
Aric Wifana'
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The Grey Company
Lord Nasher
(Submitted by: Tazz G)
As I feel the wind against my face,
I look and see people in a race,
They are running,
They are running.
Evil decends upon the land,
They play loud,
Their evil band.
As I stand,
I see the crowd,
And lend a hand.
All around me people fall,
And then I hear the calls.
The trumpets blow,
The steel rings,
And then I finally,
See the King!
Lord Nasher is his name,
And on sight,
Evil squirms in pain.
His troops charge ahead,
And they give evil it's finally resting bed!!!
Zaknafe 'The Nightstalker' Drow Mercenary
(Submitted by: Zaknafe)
"Aaaaah the night how I love the dark, I can see in the night as humans see
in the day" It conceals, warms, comforts and strikes fear in those that do
not understand its non-existing light. This night is when the deed I was
hired to do would be complete. A human mage by the name of Nostilic more
known by his title 'The Drunken Mage' which was given to him by his closest
companions. True to his title, the mage was indeed drunk this night, very
drunk. "Foolish old mage, how easily this task will be to complete". I was
hired by the thieves guild whom hides in the underground in Southwall, to
assassinate this mage. Nostilic had interfered with an assassination of
another mage, the mage was killed but not before the drunken one had
eliminated some of the guilds best thieves/ assassins that is what earned him
the right to go into the next plain of existence. I have been watching the
drunken one for awhile and on the nights before this night he was always with
other companions. He now made his fatal mistake this night for he would never
know who it was that sent him to the next plain, unless the gods wish to
reveal it to him in the next life. As I leaped from my crouched position in
the shadows I took out my scimitar from it scabbard in one quick motion, and
sliced open a deadly wound on the mages neck. He fell to the ground and took
one last breath and went into the deepest sleep he will ever know. I then
quickly removed his plate armor, flail, and other valuables he had then
disappeared into the night.
Neverwinter a wonderful city lots of opportunities are here for the likes of
me or any one for that matter. It seems all aspects of life exists here, good
and evil which constantly battle over control and for this reason it is why
I've made this 'bol' (intriguing) place my home. I am a Drow, the hunger for
power and the thrill of battle runs in my blood, it has since my days as a
sargtlin (warrior, soldier) for House Devir in my once homeland
Menzoberanzan.
I left that underworld to get away from 'female rule', to be free to act as I
wish. I ended up here, in this realm, and met a thief by the name of Justin,
Justin 'The Sleek' . I was about to slice his throat when he quickly gave me
a parchment which had Drow writings on it, apparently he had somehow learned
the language of the Drow or at least mastered the basics of the language. I
learned that somehow Justin had known of my arrival and had tracked me down.
"Bol".... not only had he learned my language but had successfully tracked
me.... "Most impressive... for a human thief" Ha ha ha... if only his
fighting skills where as good.
The parchment was a contract asking for my services, in return I would
receive maps to these parts and lessons of the language that is used here to
include human, dwarf, gnome and fairies (surface elves). Justin was highly
ranked amongst the thieves in his guild and had good skills in thieving,along
with being fluent in many languages. "haha... he also has skill in talking
his way out of tough spots" which makes up for his poor fighting skills..
In addition to the maps,and lessons I was also given a magic blade for my
use.. a Scimitar very light and well balanced one of the finest blades I've
seen. The service?.. well the assassination of Nostilic, heh.. "such an easy
task it was..... hmmmm yes .... a very easy task.... perhaps to
easy..........."A wizard's fable...
(Submitted by: HC Saybr)
The inside of the wizard's workshop looked just about as you would imagine
it. Jars full of all sorts of things...Newts tails, bat guano, stinking
sulpher, brightly colored liquids, powdered bone...the usual. A table with
an elaborate distillation system on it. Skeletons and stuffed animals of
various origin around the room. Books. Lots of books. The most curious item
was a life sized, life-like stone wizard standing in a corner, just inside of
the door. It seems that this stone wizard is currently serving as a cloak
rack. Oh yes. Poured over a book is a wizard. Medium of height, slight of
build, and looking like he's seen 100 years.
A knock at the door disturbs the wizard's studies. He walks over to the
door, and upon opening it, finds a teen aged boy standing there. "Can I help
you, boy?", asks the wizard.
"Yes. I would like to be your apprentice.", the boy replies.
"And why should I take you?", asks the wizard.
"A good wizard needs a good apprentice. I'll cook, clean, and chop firewood
for you, if you'll teach me to be a powerful mage like you."
And so the wizard agees to take the boy under his wing. "Hang your cloak up
over on the stone wizard in the corner there. Then go chop wood." The
wizard goes back to studying.
Now there is a balance in the wizard-apprentice relationship. The wizard
tries to teach enough to the student to keep him interested, but never enough
to make the apprentice powerful enough to leave. The apprentice tries to
learn as much as he can, as quickly as he can, in order to not have to serve
for too long.
"Teach me the spell of Turn to Stone", the apprentice would beg.
"You're not ready yet.", the wizard would reply.
And this would go on for some time. What the wizard didn't know was that at
night, when the wizard slept, the boy read the arcane tomes in the wizard's
library. Soon, the boy would be powerful in his own right.
One night, the wizard awoke, feeling powerful forces being unleashed. He
jumped from his bed and raised his arms in preperation of a defensive spell.
But he was too late. The boy had already learned Turn to Stone. The wizard
was frozen, arms outstretched. The boy, now a wizard, gets a convenient
workshop in the bargain. Time passes, and the new wizard takes up his
master's work.
A knock at the door disturbs the wizard's studies. He walks over to the
door, and upon opening it, finds a teenaged boy standing there. "Can I help
you, boy?", asks the wizard.
"Yes. I would like to be your apprentice.", the boy replies.
"And why should I take you?", asks the wizard.
"A good wizard needs a good apprentice. I'll cook, clean, and chop firewood
for you, if you'll teach me to be a powerful mage like you."
And so the wizard agees to take the boy under his wing. "Hang your cloak up
over on one of the stone wizards in the corner there. Then go chop wood."
The wizard goes back to studying.......Black Dragons
(Submitted by: WOL Mist)
Mist stared into the glowing embers of her small camp fire, watching the
flames of red, orange, yellow and blue play along the length of the burning
logs. Sap boiled from the end of a green limb, hissing loudly as it spattered
into the hot coals. A chilling gust of wind sliced through the low hanging
pine branches, bringing with it the strong scent of brimstone. Off in the
trees, her friend the Horned Owl sounded a alarm.
Crouched down outside the ring of firelight, Mist strained to see the
intruders. Her thoughts shifted momentarily to Lord Nashers warning of Black
Dragons leading bands of Orcs into the realms, but that was beyond
Nightsedge, she told herself. Her heart was pounding as she wished for the
company of the Bear, but Ulath was gone, it had been many weeks since she
last saw him. Had Lobo been there the two of them could have easily stood off
a Dragon and any number of Orcs, but her love had already returned to the
Wolves den. Casting her thoughts out into the realms Mist sought for her
brothers or sisters of Luna, but found none. She was alone. The snapping of a
twig alerted her to the danger at the last moment, but that was too late,
they were behind her.
Travelers upon the twisting paths through the lost hills would report
bright flashes of magic and the sound of fireball thundering out of a
secluded valley. The war cry of a lone wolf was heard, but it had gone
unanswered. Searchers would find the small ring of stone around the still
warm ashes of a campfire, the ground showed signs of a fierce battle and
magic had burned a wide ring in the grassy slope to the North. Nothing else
was found save the hilt of a shattered long sword. A Bad Day
(Submitted by: Gonzo Kom)
Journal Entry
Gonzo Kom
I stand looking over the battlefield where the worst of the war was waged.
My ears ringing from the almost constant clashing of sword on sword. My
bones still chilled from the screaming of my many enemies. There are other
survivors, but not many, who can live to tell this tale.
It was the classic good versus evil that most legends come from that caused
the destruction I witnessed today. This time we the good were lucky, next
time.......
I slowly make my way back towards my home town of Never Winter, avoiding all,
because the visions of death still haunt my every thought. I care not what
they think of me, for I have lived through evil that will long be talked of.
The only place I stop is the local tavern to see if any of my comrades have
returned from the bloody plains. The crowd stands and cheers when I enter the
main room. News always travels quickly in these lands. Then when questioned
about the others from our area they hang there heads. None will speak.
I leave disgusted because the people never listened when they were told of
the danger. Instead they ignored the problem till it was to late. If not for
the small band of magis that live in the area, the KOM all would have
perished today.
Ah !There it is, my small run down hovel of a home, finally I stagger across
the entrance and find the door ajar. Sensing all is not as it should be I
loosen my sword in its sheath and ready a spell.
Kicking the door, I rush in, my battle cry stops dead in my throat as I see
my once comfortable home barren. Nothing remained of my meager belongings.
I search top and bottom for a clue and finally decide all is lost.
As I look towards the exit I notice a small piece of parchment stuck to the
back of the door. Holding it there the small dagger I had given my wife for
the anniversary of our joining. Not wanting to believe what I saw, I read it
like a dead man.......
Dear Gonzo Kom,
Sorry I could not be here for you. I got tired of waiting around while
you go off and spend days away saving the world. You and the rest of your
guild must understand that your family needs you just as much as everyone
else.
Do not try to find me or our daughter for we do not want to be found.
We have gone far away to live in peace. Oh, by the way, I sold all your
things so I could afford to live until I find someone to replace you.
Your Xwife
I could not believe my misfortune. I sit and just as the depth of my pain
starts to reach my heart, I hear footsteps. Curious I get to my feet and see
my partner ChronicKom walking into my front yard.
HAIL KOM !!!!! We are needed in Port LLast there is an evil gathering taking
place.
With a deep breath I swing my sword to my shoulder and head to do battle
again. This is the life I chose when I joined the Guild. Hoping to hide the
pain of my loss in the heat of battle.......(Submitted by: Morngrym)
This is a lighthearted piece, inspired by a particularly good night of
battle...basically
something fun. There have been countless huge group battles, good and bad
over the
years, but the best ones are a work of art...
:D
Collisions
Swirling mists around my feet
In a place that has never known relief
Battered gates on tattered hinges
A testament to our violent binges
The spells flew high, and landed low
Tactics and strategy of those who know
In clouds of green and hazy blue
Its what you say and what you do
A golem to the left, giant on the right
Safety through a door of light
Amid slays and fumbles and feebs galore
Cast that globe and battle some more
A clumsy foe, a welcome blessing
Just when the mystical attack was pressing
Dispel coming up, and moving away
Saves and fakes are working today
Up on a table, one way show
Stuck in a corner, nowhere to go
Bombarded by causes, or holding them all
Sometimes we stand, sometimes we fall
Stunning victories and surprise defeats
Lightning charges and tactical retreats
Good or evil, its plain to see
How much we all enjoy...this PvP.
By Morngrym Verigost
Baron-Knight
Bard of KORT!
;>
::Thud:: ;>
A Day Long Awaited
(Submitted by: Starrbolt)
THE MORTAL COIL - part one
~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~
Standing outside Silverymoon's southernmost entrance, Starshine Wanderer
watched as the Caravan of Tyr approached. Sunlight still filtered through
early evening clouds, but the tail of the long, winding caravan was obscured
by dusk and shadows amongst the Spring-time greens and browns of the
Moonwoods Forest.
Squinting his almond-shaped, green-colored eyes, Starshine counted the
number of coaches and wagons in line. "A hearty company, indeed," mused the
half-elf. "More than 100 horses."
Patiently he waited for the caravan to arrive. Clad in a gray, hooded
robe and leather sandals, he stood with arms folded inside sleeves at waist
level. The hood of the robe hung behind him, baring the youthful,
cream-colored skin of his face and neck. His sun-streaked, auburn-colored
hair was trimmed in a short bob--a style associated with religious
devotees--which allowed the pointed tips of his ears to show.
Presently, the vanguard of the caravan drew near. Smiling, Starshine
called out, "Greetings! Welcome to Silverymoon, the Gem of the North," and
raised his right hand palm-forward.
A striking figure mounted on horseback returned the gesture and stated,
"Hail and well met. The Caravan of Tyr, en route to Waterdeep for the Spring
Festival, seeks shelter." Starshine had never before seen a more impressive
man. The rider was armored, as was his mount, in gleaming plate mail. His
tunic bore the holy symbol of Tyr--a hammer supporting the scales of justice.
The deep voice, lined face, and graying beard and mustache all indicated the
man's experience.
The half-elf nodded and announced, "I am Starshine Wanderer, sent by
Monsignor Thurgoode to escort Prelate Thurstyn and his hierarchy to the Halls
of Inspiration. The rest of your company is welcome within the city."
The mounted vanguard replied, "I am Sir Gilfor d'von Torbar. Prelate
Thurstyn will be pleased to meet with Monsignor Thurgoode. On behalf of the
company, we thank the city for its hospitality." Directing his horse toward
Starshine, Sir Gilfor added, "Lead on, Elensila."
For a moment, the half-elf looked at the knight in surprise. Few
people, even in a city as diversified as Silverymoon, knew the elven
translation of his name. Starshine turned and led the caravan through the
New Gate inside the city walls. Walking beside Sir Gilfor's mount, he asked,
"You speak elven?"
The knight smiled and answered, "Somewhat."
"I go by the Common translation of my elven name," Starshine explained,
"because most find elven unfamiliar and difficult to remember let alone
pronounce." Gilfor tilted his head back and chuckled.
The west garrison of the city's army, called the Knights in Silver,
lined the street to welcome the caravan. Students from the Lady's College
flitted about, excited to see the visitors. Merchants stood at their
storefronts, eager to do business with the travelers.
Most of the caravan dispersed, seeking lodgings, supplies, and
entertainment in the New Section of the city. Sir Gilfor, Prelate Thurstyn,
and three other clergymen proceeded with Starshine to the famous Moonbridge,
a magical construct spanning the River Rauvin. At the guardposts beside the
bridge's entrance, sentries trumpeted the arrival of the distinguished
guests. After crossing the Moonbridge, the party passed through the great
open Market in the city's Old Section before arriving at the Halls of
Inspiration--a conflux of temples shared by Oghma, Milil, and Tyr.
Starshine waited outside Monsignor Thurgoode's office while the high
priest conferred with the visitors. After nearly an hour, the Monsignor
summoned the half-elf to join them inside.
"Starshine, my son," the Monsignor said, "I commend you to the
leadership of Prelate Thurstyn. Tomorrow you shall join his caravan. Go
with him, and serve the temple of Tyr in Waterdeep."
"Yes, Monsignor Thurgoode," Elensila acknowledged and then added
hesitantly, "but, I have not yet been admitted to the temple as a brother who
may serve." Thurgoode laughed, and his mirth was soon echoed by the others.
"Then let us right the matter," the Monsignor said. "Tonight you will
be initiated in the Ceremony of Holy Orders."
"Oh, thank you, Monsignor!" Starshine exclaimed, bowing his head.
"Now go, my son. Tidy your affairs. You haven't much time before the
evening service."
"Yes, Monsignor." The half-elf bowed again and then exited.
~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~
While standing in the family dining room, Starshine shared the good news
with his human guardians, Augustus and Alicia Otterman. Looking up from
their dinner of pork, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, bread, and ale, the
elderly couple listened to their adopted son as he excitedly told them about
the sweeping change coming to his life. Alicia rose and embraced him, and
Augustus clapped his shoulder in congratulations.
"Oh, Papa, our little elf is all grown up!" Alicia exclaimed.
"Ha! Took long enough!" Augustus joked. "We were young and you a child
when we took you in ... now look at us! We're old and gray, while you're
just becoming an adult! T'isn't fair!"
Elensila smiled and shrugged. "The aging difference would be worse if I
were a full elf ... I'd still be a child!"
"Yes, still pulling on my apron strings and begging me to bake spice
cookies!" added Alicia. "Oh, Starshine, we couldn't be more proud if you
were our own flesh and blood!" She hugged him tightly and cried on his
shoulder.
Augustus grumbled, "That goes for me, too ... but don't expect me to
cry!" They all laughed, and Alicia excused herself to begin packing
Starshine's belongings.
Filling the quiet, Augustus said, "Son, your step-mother and I are very
proud of how you've learned our ways ... our faith. It hasn't been easy for
you, being both human and elf ... part of two different worlds."
Starshine interjected, "You've shown me the best of both worlds."
Augustus raised his eyebrows. "I've tried to teach you both ways ...
the best I know how." The old man locked eyes with the half-elf. "Always
remember the heritage of your parents. Promise me that you'll continue to
study the elven way, even as you serve Tyr."
Elensila nodded and said, "I will ... father." The two men embraced,
and each shed tears.
~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~
In the elven shrine at Everdusk Hall, Starshine knelt before a marble
statue of Corellon Larethian, chief god of the elven pantheon called the
Seldarine. The half-elf placed his palms together on the ground and bent
forward, touching his forehead to the back of his hands. Slowly he raised
his upper body to face the statue, and then extended his arms outward with
palms up. Silently he prayed to Corellon for a sign of favor ... but, as
always, he felt nothing.
Never had he sensed the presence of the elven gods, as he had sensed
Tyr's. In fact, Tyr answered his prayers explicitly and granted him priestly
magic spells. In reward for his devotion, Tyr enabled Starshine to cure
light wounds, bless, and detect magic.
Elensila wondered if the elven gods ignored him because he also served a
human god. "Perhaps they find me unworthy due to my human blood?" he
speculated.
On his way out of the shrine, Starshine purchased an ivy replica of
Corellon's statue, no more than five inches in length. He placed the
figurine in his shoulder bag and left.
~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~
With the hour of the evening service nearly at hand, Starshine raced to
one last stop: Miresk's School of Thaumaturgy. The half-elf couldn't leave
Silverymoon without saying good-bye to the master mage, Miresk.
The learned, old wizard listened to his pupil's tale in silence, and
then proclaimed, "This is a day we've long awaited." He reached inside a
fold of his robe and produced a palm-sized, leather-bound book. "Here, take
this," Miresk said, smiling. "You've earned it."
Starshine accepted the book in both hands and opened its cover. On the
first page were the runes for a mystic spell: read magic. He recognized the
symbols readily; after all, read magic was the first spell that Miresk had
taught him. Turning pages, Elensila saw three more inscribed spells: burning
hands, armor, and identify. "A grimoire," the half-elf murmured. Looking up
at Miresk, he asked, "My own?"
The mage smiled and replied, "Go forth ... learn ... and write your own
unique story on the pages of that book."
~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~
In the Ceremony of Holy Orders, Starshine received holy robes bearing
the symbol of Tyr and a piece of stone from the home temple. Monsignor
Thurgoode proclaimed that Elensila was now an acolyte of the church. Then
Thurgoode presented the half-elf priest with a long sword, flail, and short
bow and charged him with the duty to wield his weapons in the cause of
justice.
At the conclusion of the service, Starshine was shocked to notice the
presence of the High Lady Alustriel, a legendary elven sorceress and the
ruler of Silverymoon. She stood between Monsignor Thurgoode and Prelate
Thurstyn at the temple doors, greeting the attendees as they exited.
When his turn came, Starshine bowed his head and said, "Greetings, High
Lady." He felt awed, not only by her position and reputation, but also
because she was a full elf.
"Congratulations, Elensila Ranar," she said, smiling. (For the second
time in a single day, he noted, he'd been addressed by his elven name.) "You
do your parents proud," she continued. "Please give them my regards when
next you see them."
"I will, High Lady. Thank you," said Starshine. At first, he had
assumed that she was referring to his human guardians; however, he quickly
reasoned that Augustus and Alicia Otterman--humble proprietors of a carriage
repair shop--were not likely acquaintances of Alustriel.
His confusion must have shown in his eyes, because the High Lady smiled
graciously and touched her right hand lightly upon his left shoulder.
"Lissenen ar' maska'lalaith tenna' lye omentuva," she said in the melodious
elven language. Sweet water and light laughter till next we meet, Starshine
silently translated.
He bowed again and passed through the line.
~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~
With the dawn, the Caravan of Tyr left Silverymoon and headed southwest
to Waterdeep. Riding a strong horse, Starshine smiled as he passed through
the gates of his home. Perhaps he would never return, but, at that moment,
he was happy and excited about the journey that lay ahead.WANDERER - Part 5
"The Purple Squid Letter"
(Submitted by: Lake Mist)
Many were tired by now, having completed two adventures this eve...but
Dragonklaw wanted to push on to finish this nights work that we started out
on...we would not let him travel alone...
Once again we traveled north from the Inn on the path that lead to the Berun
gate...but we paused by a door at 7,4...Dragonklaw pointed west and said,
"Thru this door and the next we shall find a secret door to Triboar Under and
the path to the Holders."...
Thru the second door we encountered four Stirges, four Displacer Beast and
five Cyclopskins...not much trouble for this group of rangers...after, we
found ourselves at 15,11 in Triboar Under...I rememed but did not fix...
Thru the door that faced us and on thru the door on the south wall into a
small room with a door to the west...thru this door we found a long corridor
with Hell Hounds and Salamanders awaiting to stop our travels...
Straight down the corridor to 8,13 and continue to face west as there lies a
secret door...we stepped thru and followed the hall around...the dark chill
of old evil magic passed through my body...
Again we encountered lurking Hell Hounds and Salamanders all around...and
found the door at the end of this hall...this place looked normal but felt
cold...I wondered what had happened here...
We opened the door and stepped forward to be confronted by two Clerics with
eight Kraken Spies and two Ice Hounds to bar our way...
After these fell, Calinor found a piece of paper that read "hidden door, west
end of south corridor, push...do not go without a Kraken."...he looked around
and dropped the paper to the floor..."I wonder if that means us" he
laughed...
Thru the door in the south-east corner of the room and into the next with a
door in the north-east corner we went...thru that we passed, and found
ourselves in yet another room with a door in the south-east corner...but
Dragonklaw warned us that thru that door awaited the Holders and more...
If the Holders did not kill us, there was an Umber Hulk and several Kraken
Spies to do the job...prepped and eager, thru the door at 13,15 we
went...Dragonklaw leading the way...
Dragonklaw's keen blade whickered and thrust, smashing at his enemies...the
Holders fought back...he almost went down like a slain ox...slashing at the
Holders as he moved...
Shaken and dazed by the cruel blow that would have snapped the neck of a
lesser man, Dragonklaw resumed his slashing and the Holders fell...the rest
fell easily once their leaders were slain...and we gained the Purple Squid
Letter...
Back to Triboar and the Inn we went rauciously this eve...Dragonklaw had
again lead us thru...
Many stayed the night at the Triboar Inn, while others formed smaller groups
and adventured on...I headed back to Never Winter and the vaults...I needed
to get rid of this two-hander and get my Trident and Mirrored Shield...
For the Purple Squid Letter, Lord Nasher rewarded me with a Cloak of
Displacement...a fine night indeed...Thieves in Neverwinter
(2/17/96)
People all around Neverwinter are begining to recognise a new force in the
realms: The Spirit Lurkers. This hearty band of thieves gather around the
vaults and deal in more commerse then the former Traders Alliance. The
Spirit Lurkers are well on their way to becoming sanctioned, almost eight
months old and bursting at the seems with members.
I am posting here to give the average citizen of Neverwinter a few tips on
avoiding these pests of NW.
It is not always possible to trade with people you know and trust, so you
will have to take the next best thing. Do not trade with obvious thieves.
What I mean by this is a typical first level paladin who offers Rings+2
and/or Gauntlets of Ogre Power. Generally the safest type of people to trade
with are maxed characters who have a low armor class. The older a person
looks, more often than not, they will have no urge to steal.
Their manner is also important, be sure that the items they list do not
become too convienet. When you ask for a Mirror Shield+2 and suddenly the
person "remembers" that he has the in the vault, you know that there is a
problem.
Often thieves will only concentrate on the theft. They will not engage in
any other conversation than the items that they wish to "Trade". Look for
people who look like they have been playing the game for a long time. They
should speak with old friends, say hello to strangers and not force trades.
Members of guilds are often good people to trade with. They do noy want to
soil theri reputation by stealing from you.
Trading- Once you have picked teh right person to trade with you should still
try to be careful. Ask for a mediator. A mediator is a third party who will
revcieve the items and then distribute them out to the right people. The
mediator you choose should be a trusted friend, or at the very least, someone
who looks respectable. You may be able to keep the mediator in line if you
offer him a small reward for staying honest. A wand or good scroll should
do.
If you are caught by a thief there are some guidelines you should follow. DO
NOT LOSE YOUR HEAD. If you get caught in a TOS offence because you swore at
a thief, it is just not worth it. Tell the online NW and tell them that you
were robbed. Stealing is not a TOS offence, but there are rumors that the
NW's keep a list of thieves. If that is not enough for you, post thier name
in every folder around Neverwinter. You could ruin their reputation so no
body else ever gets robbed by them again.
Well that is just about all I have to say about protecting yourself in
Neverwinter. NOTE- I myself am a thief. I work for the Spirit Lurkers and
am writing this article so that you can make it more of a challenge for me
and my brothers.
Any thieves wishing to join the Spirit Lurkers please E-mail Robitius for an
application.
SwitFeet
Master of Quick Feet
Spirit Lurkers
Author of the Thieves Manifesto<><><><><>
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