1996-06-30
Recovered original text · preserved verbatim
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NEVERWINTER NEWS
Issue # 140
Week Ending 6-30-96
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FRONT PAGE
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Congratulations to Luthyen for winning last week's News of the Realm contest
for her story entitled "Of a White Flower (Continued)".
Luthyen 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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Summer Festival - Neverwinter's 5th Anniversary Recap
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After months of preparation, the Summer Festival in celebration of
Neverwinter's 5th Anniversary was nearly upon the city. The merchants and
travellers who had journeyed so far to be present had begun to set up their
booths and shops early in the morning, workers began laying out tables and
chairs in the grassy green of the square and under the ancient tree itself.
Bright banners with Neverwinter's white snowflakes on blue were hung from the
trees, displayed gaily over doorways, and flown proudly over the towering
heights of the palace itself.
Even though it was still quite early, folk began to gather eagerly awaiting
the word of the locations of the day's contests of luck and skill. Rules had
been posted weeks prior, inviting all who would care to participate to join
the festivities in celebration of the city and the Gods of Toril. The dew
yet glistened upon the grass and the sun itself had barely risen to the
promise of a glorious day, when the details of the contest's locations were
posted. Crowding around, the competitors began planning their routes and
rushing to be in the proper locations.
Inside the guards' barracks, there was a frenzy of matching activity as
preparations were made to host these competitions. Last minute questions
about rules and details on how reports should be made and to whom questions
should be directed filled the room. The excitement of the day was just as
obvious here as it was outside the palace. Cheerfully the guard prepared for
their part in the upcoming Festivities!
The Captain of the Guard, her Lieutenants and those appointed to plan the
details of the Festival gathered round to discuss last minute changes. The
day was expected to be a busy one and virtually every member of the guard was
assigned one of the many contests. Even those who were working on patrol for
portions of the Festival itself would be helping out just before and just
after their shifts. This was to be the largest celebration the city had ever
seen with over 30 booths running for the full four hours of the Anniversary
celebration. Even a few special contests had been created for the demi-human
visitors and inhabitants of the city to allow them to demonstate their skills
to the glory of their gods.
The guard moved to their positions and began to prepare for their
competitions, even as folk began to line up in eager anticipation. "Que me!"
was the universal cry of the day, spoken in so many different languages,
dialects, and accents. At last, the hour had arrived and Lord Nasher
proclaimed the start of the Summer Festival!
Thanks to all who participated in the 5th Anniversary/Summer Festival
Celebration held on June 22, 1995 from 2:00p - 6:00p ET. When all was said
and done, Neverwinter remained at its full capacity of 400 for nearly the
entire duration of the celebration. Over 310 folk of Neverwinter had earned
pearls in the various contests and over 3000 pearls were awarded to both the
skilled and the lucky!
Congratulations to all the winners!
NW Events
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Gond's Benevolence
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While Lord Nasher had decreed that the Summer Festival would be held to
celebrate the 5th Anniversary of Neverwinter, it was agreed by all that the
actual date of the anniversary would not be suitable for the great
celebration, being a day when most labored and could not easily set aside
their responsibilities and cares. A rest day instead was chosen, yet those
advising the Lord of the city felt it important too that the blessed day,
June 24th, should also be recognized with celebration and song.
Thus, it was decided that a gathering should be called and lottery tickets
sold for an opportunity to attract the eye and favor of Gond the Wondermaker.
The clerics of Gond in preparation for this unusual spectacle created a
marvelous and exceedingly complex device which with many horns, whistles and
bells, gears, pulleys, levers and tilt wheels allowed a purely random chance
of attracting the great Gond's attention. Lord Nasher politely, if a bit
nervously, agreed to the use of this fascinating contraption as a means of
determining the winners of this Realms-wide lottery.
On the fateful evening, following a day filled with suprises as Lord Nasher
randomly awarded prizes to brave adventurers in the Realms that day, the
drawing was held. With a strange hissing, popping, spinning sound the names
were selected from the list of all who had purchased tickets in the
preceeding week!
The winners are listed in the order that they won:
Girdle of Fire Giant Strength - Jehenum
10 pearls - Star Aura
25 pearls - Myschyfsun
5 hours - Men0sis
20 pearls - Iz Ilven
10 pearls - Dark Vap0r
20 pearls - Mech Steem
Ring +3 - Lord Keser
20 pearls - BD Piper
10 pearls - Sol Ent1ty
Gauntlets of Dexterity - Sir Rellik
25 pearls - BRMags
5 hours - HR Blkaddr
25 pearls - SirHuma
Girdle of Frost Giant Strength - ITB Teddi
5 hours - Aarius
10 pearls - Dwayrr
25 pearls - XO2 Zeus
20 pearls - GunnerMK11
10 pearls - DarkThane
5 hours - NOR Keser
25 pearls - Garett Jax
5 hours - Erezendes
Ring of Cold Resistance - Wranglir
20 pearls - Kaeyne X
Congratulations to those who attracted Gond's favor! ;D
Those who won prizes throughout the day while adventuring were:
5 hours - Lord Chadd
10 pearls - Peirgeron
2 hours - Cyruse
GOH Access - SK Raven
15 pearls - JohnT58141
Thanks all for participating and helping to celebrate Neverwinter's 5th
Anniversary! ;D
NW Events
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Location Hunt Winner - 6/23
We had a real toughie tonight..... find "INCONCEIVABLE!". After 20 minutes of
hard fleeing dragons and other such monsters, Nor Bishop was the first (and
only) one to find it. He wins 4 pearls and 1 free hour online for his
efforts.
- Kel
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Official June WWAI Results!!
1st--25 pearls/4 free hours--Sylphee--28 points...
2nd--20 pearls/3 free hours--PanzerMagi--25 points...(roll-off winner over
DarkThane)
3rd--15 pearls/2 free hours--DarkThane--25 points
Random roll winner--5 pearls--Sylphee
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Charm Person Booth Winner - 6/25
The winner for Charm Person booth this time around is.....
Drk Legacy!!! WTG!! ;D
-- Amaya
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Location Hunt Winner - 6\26\96 3pm ET
Piergeiron ... won the hunt and wins 4 pearls and 1 free hour!! ;>
-- Temp
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New Players Tour - 6/26 10pm
At the request of Lord Nasher and the captain of the guards NWA Morgan put
together a group of volunteer adventurers to investigate dire events at the
ghost ship, the Gallant Prince. Ever since the mysterious ship sailed into
Port Llast without crew there have been rumors of evil in the area. NWA
Morgan chose young heroes for his crew and met them at the beautiful
Neverwinter Gardens. The warrior priest of Tyr knew young adventurers would
be more enthusiastic to fight for a good cause for honor instead of gold.
Joining him were Cal1sta, Zameral, Richochet20, Mgw2040, Vartan Hai,
Drujistian, Owsla, Guissippi.
The party headed north. Unfortunately, the city of Neverwinter was bustling
with more travelers that eve that ever before and Zameral and Drujistian
were lost in the crowds. The heroes had no choice but to continue. They
crossed into the warehouse district and continued north. It would have been
an uneventful trip through the warehouse district had it not been for the
kobolds that suddenly attacked. The foul dog men, however, were no match for
the heroes fighting skills and were easily dispatched.
The crew became cautious when they arrived in the town of Windycliffs. It
was known that tribes of lizard men ran rampant throughout the region,
preying on unwary adventurers. No sooner were the heroes on their way north
when they were beset upon by a tribe of the foul repitilian hunters. The
battle was fierce and bloody, made more difficult by the presence of a fire
snake. For every tribe the heroes beat back another appeared in their place,
as if there were an endless stream of savage lizard men. In the chaos of the
battle Oswla was lost to us. Vartan Hai and Drujistian were the next to
fall, severely injured but still alive. Unwilling to leave anyone still
living behind, NWA Morgan mounted a rescue mission and retrieved Guissippi
and Vartan Hai, pummeling his way through hordes of lizard men while the
others cleared the path ahead.
The battle was soon joined by another hero, a season adventurer by the name
of Tweedldeee who helped turned the tide of the battle. After the fight the
heroes, now joined by Tweedldee stopped at a local inn to recover their
strength and gather their wits. After the brief respite, the group were on
their way again.
It was then that a band of cowardly thieves struck, accompanied by a large
strange creature. Though the heroes were able to defeat the evil highwaymen,
Guissippi was mortally wounded in the fierce battle. Richochet20 volunteered
to carry his body back to Neverwinter, unwilling to leave it behind for foul
scavengers, thus there were only NWA Morgan, Cal1sta, Mgw2040, Vartan Hai and
Tweedldee left to complete the mission.
In Port LLast a pack of wild boars became that night's dinner after they
dared to attack the heroes. When the Gallant Prince finally came into view,
the young heroes were attacked yet again, this time by a tribe of wretched
bugbears leading a carrion crawler pet. The crew defeated the giant
goblinoids but another hero had fallen in battle, Vartan Hai, this time
fatally injured. Though their numbers had dwindled, with their goal so close
at hand the heroes had no choice but to continue.
It was only four heroes that set foot upon the Gallant Prince, the musty
smelling ghost ship shifting slightly as it rode the gentle waves. The
group made their way to the old captain's quarters, hoping to find some kind
of information, only to be attacked by bugbears again, this time accompanied
by a savage troll. Driven by anger and the need for vengeance the beasts,
even the troll, were slain without pause.
Sensing they would find nothing in the captain's quarters the heroes tried
another door, to the west and found themselves magically lifted to another
part of the ship. Before they could explore their new surroundings they were
attacked by the most evil of creatures, the undead but even they were no
watch for the quartet of adventurers.
After the battle the heroes located a living sailor chained to the wall,
rambling a warning about the Luskan. He then was turned to stone! Undaunted
by the strange event, the heroes continued on. Two doors and another magical
lift brought them to another strange corridor this time guarded by medusae.
The snake tressed sorceresses were truly the most powerful foes faced by
heroes. Poor Mgw2040 was turned to stone. Unwilling to give up the
remaining trio, NWA Morgan, Cal1sta, and Tweedldee emerged victorious from
the conflict. At this point the survivors were battered, beaten and
bedraggled. But even weary, it was Cal1sta who spotted a brass button on the
floor, proof of Luskan activity in the region. NWA Morgan knew that Lord
Nasher would be extremely pleased by this bit of information.
Their job done, the remaining three, NWA Morgan, Cal1sta, and Tweedldee,
took a moment to mourn their losses and then started the long trip home.
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June GOH Booth #2
To help cool off some of Neverwinter's citizens, an Ice Storm booth was held
near town. The challenge was to see who could take the lowest and the
highest amounts of damage from the two Ice Storms cast.
The two who came out on top were Abzzsta1n and Myschyff! Abzzsta1n took the
lowest damage and won 6 pearls, while Myschyff took the highest and won 3.
Congratulations to the winners!! :)
-- NW Strahd
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Magic Missle Booth Results - 6-28
As NWA Rex's Barn Side Blasting took off all the players seemed to have their
Magic Missiles locked and loaded to try and put the hurt on me. Standing in
a corner of Vilnask, taking them on one at a time, puffing out my chest,
tauntng them. Trying to ward off their attacks as they yelled at me with
anger in their words wanting me to go down hard and in severe pain.
But Standing tall, I was able to ward most of them off as they all took
severe damage causing me to go down to one knee. Hitting me with 3 of their
mightiest Missiles causing damage in the low 60's , with very few only
getting in the upper 50's. The average strikes ranged in the 64 to 67 area,
putting the hurt on me like you would not believe.
Nearing the end as Niro lead the field early with 67 damage and was looking
good at taking home the prize when all of a sudden up stepped Encubus and
hiiting me with a huge 68 hp's of damage. Falling to both knees as he danced
around me with only two players left, celebrating his victory early.
As the final two came in and could not muster up enough power to take me down
giving the victory to Encubus as he walked away proud winning the 4 Pearls
and 1 free hour of Online time. Gathering what strength I had left, limping
back to NW and heading into the palace of our fearless leader Nasher for a
long rest to heal my wounds.
NWA Rex
Thanks to all who attended and made this a painfull and very enjoyous
event!!!!
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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!
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New Player Tours:
Join the following staff members for a tour of the Realm:
June 30th Sunday 8:00 PM EST - with NW Frost.
July 2nd Tuesday 9:00 PM EST - with NW Ulfius.
July 5th Friday 11:00 PM EST - with NW Thorn.
July 6th Saturday 11:00 AM EST - with NWA Cajun.
Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner
telling where to meet! ;D
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Congratulations to Luthyen for winning last week's News of the Realm contest
for the story "Of a White Flower (Continued)".
Luthyen has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of
Heroes). Keep up the good work! ;D
Summer Festival Pearl Winners!
The following is a list of pearl winners from the Summer Festival/5th
Anniversary of Neverwinter celebrated on June 22nd. We are aware that in the
excitement of the competitions spelling errors do occur. PLEASE take the
time to check that your name is properly spelled and that your pearl total is
correct by your records. You will have until July 31st to question the
Summer Festival pearl credits. ;D
If you do find that you need changes made, please send mail to NW Oyster and
give him as many details as you can. There were quite a few competitions
running that day, and so lots of different reports will have to be analyzed
to make corrections. Your details will really help us to promptly deal with
any corrections! You should begin seeing pearl credit mail on July 1st!
Thanks again to all who participated and congratulations to all the winners!
NW Events
Winners of pearls
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aarius - 14
abk blood - 2
abk bones - 13
abk cleanr - 5
abk hadean - 8
abk hunter - 7
abk porral - 2
abk psyk0 - 5
abk sentry - 5
abktass1 - 6
abzzcesse - 19
abzzsta1n - 15
aelin - 23
akumu - 9
alisane - 7
amedor - 5
archeo - 10
arielana - 17
arielzwei - 9
articdoll - 5
ashemmi - 7
augststorm - 19
aurela - 7
avalon sf - 7
b0nehead - 6
baell - 9
banestyr - 15
bannwyn - 2
bauvlin - 6
bd othin -13
bd warlock - 11
bd wizard - 19
bedazeller - 6
black dye - 15
black t0m - 6
blueadept - 3
blueflamme - 2
bobt558501 - 13
boltthrwr - 19
burnin sun - 30
cdrose521 - 8
chevbayard - 4
cor jimi - 7
cordedarmz - 12
daglow - 8
dagrn - 3
danen1 - 12
darksavnt - 19
darkthane - 4
deathblase - 8
delracnid - 5
devon tir - 1
dilberto - 2
dirk dirty - 19
dirt darb - 6
djinndude - 2
dmemv1 - 2
doc ridge - 12
doc weird - 11
dracolich3 - 9
dragnknght - 3
drakhen - 12
drakmire - 11
drizzt udn - 8
drk legacy - 28
dunvagenn - 6
earl graye - 7
ego prime - 9
ekaha - 8
emmrald - 4
ender bay - 18
erec grey - 10
erezendes - 12
exegete - 7
freaky kom - 5
furrbahl - 5
gaelwynn - 4
ganelon - 7
gardian - 15
gary orl2 - 31
gepy101 - 5
gg aegwyn - 9
goodygater - 17
greypoint - 2
gunnermk11 - 12
gwandler - 3
haldor - 14
hardone842 - 20
hellzfury - 4
hr blkaddr - 10
hr merlin - 14
hr pufnstf - 10
ibin2 h2 - 9
ingenjeger - 14
injun j0e - 2
injunjoe - 4
itb cinder - 11
itb cormyr - 2
itb teddi - 5
itb xavier - 5
ivylunett - 3
jbradburn - 7
jecele - 9
jehenum - 8
jiminannva - 3
jjarchaic - 5
jp flea - 7
jsmith5237 - 5
kadion - 31
kaeyne x - 7
kainesh - 7
kal mirage - 5
kef choct0 - 12
kef d0ctor - 4
kef fair - 17
kef rather - 11
kefcamaris - 2
kefgandalf - 3
kethryvris - 3
kezinko - 2
kf m0ytal - 4
killiar - 3
kkrom - 5
klorb - 6
klyssita - 4
kmalj - 2
kto aries - 5
kto hawk - 5
kto kurzon - 4
kto magic - 3
kto thelvin - 13
ktophrophet - 6
ku uak1 - 10
l0rd jack - 9
lady ellyn - 10
lady fa1r - 12
ladytinya - 2
lafel - 13
lamergire - 3
lammasu145 - 15
lanthanyll - 5
ldy kaylen - 4
ldy nalika - 3
ldy spawn - 16
ldy tarma - 7
ldyambrlin - 5
legas vas - 15
legolas999 - 5
lev1ath0n - 10
lhianan - 4
llewdoc - 12
lord keser - 21
lrd feanor - 10
lrd mags - 5
lrd raz0r - 17
lrd tynian - 7
lyssixi - 12
machea - 6
mad drunk - 28
maganus14 - 3
magicquick - 12
mandalh - 3
mannimark - 7
mech 8ball - 12
mech black - 2
mech brand - 10
mech chiee - 5
mech elegy - 4
mech ember - 15
mech freon - 17
mech lotus - 13
mech moses - 15
mech rotty - 6
mech ryman - 38
mech spank - 3
mech starr - 14
medicrusty - 17
men0sis - 17
mendalh - 9
mershu - 17
metr0n - 3
midrack - 2
missvirtue - 2
mnemnenth - 7
modalex - 2
modaley - 2
moradinson - 17
mordeth - 4
mordinson - 4
mrbill888 - 3
n0r chaos - 27
n0r gnicht - 9
n0r grnknt - 22
n0r s0ng - 4
n0r silvie - 2
n0r tex - 11
nemisises1 - 2
nikoblas - 5
nikodemys - 22
nikolbolas - 5
ning ti - 2
nitejester - 1
nor kileon - 2
nor raver - 2
nyx nexus - 4
oklar - 18
ol paladin - 10
olorin val - 13
opslin - 38
oran rezz - 43
outcry - 15
panzernagi - 7
pegleg bob - 3
penn 290 - 6
phyrra - 3
poko sun - 10
pokosmaoke - 13
polgom - 5
polrom - 3
ppijohn - 20
qualasia - 20
quik dragx - 8
raxious - 4
redd iz - 12
reddrago - 6
robitius - 7
robobod - 10
royalblde - 11
sagx - 20
sangdraxx - 14
santree - 7
sarhth0r - 20
sftwarewtr - 2
shadeblood - 28
shaherazad - 5
shaperdef - 16
shurg - 8
silenthunt - 4
sir dorvan - 3
sir havoc - 2
sir havok - 3
sir rellik 5
sir trapp - 5
sir vermin - 9
sir wolfen - 1
sirhuma - 25
sirtalen - 12
sk sara - 9
sk torm - 2
sol mioke - 17
sol arthur - 14
sol entes - 18
sol lazer - 15
sol lethal - 8
sol saybr - 4
sol storm - 14
sol trance - 12
sol valor - 2
sol varion - 15
solemhart - 3
som talia - 2
somarkemp - 13
speaker44 - 2
sr avenger - 14
sr shumard - 13
ss sargas - 7
starbeard2 - 5
starliyt - 5
stidjr0n - 14
stidjron - 3
sunglitz - 5
sw kasar - 22
sylphee - 24
sylverion - 28
tatyana ii - 11
tcarde - 2
tcs cyrw1n - 10
tcs elrond - 13
tcs liesel - 3
tcs merman - 11
tcs xzaver - 9
thorn w0od - 17
tieglin - 7
tilfahr - 2
tmayes - 2
tohmm - 3
trueshield - 6
trunk900 - 7
tuvor - 2
tyst - 19
udl hunter - 5
udl terr0r - 9
undeadmage - 19
urlord1 - 2
v antonius - 33
v ehlana - 3
v targ0th - 7
v1ctor - 8
valgren - 7
vilanne - 21
warderick - 8
warr prime - 10
warr spook - 5
wee wacker - 9
wgw crabb - 2
wgw marty - 11
wgw z man - 5
wingbrothr - 8
wizgod - 6
wol azlan - 8
wolnazbeef - 4
wranglir - 17
wwayman - 5
wycked ldy - 12
wyrmstryk - 5
xo2 zeus - 5
zacnefear2 - 3
zaknefeinn - 6
zantarian - 13
zeerian - 15
zhan druin - 20
zhan drvin - 2
zorrena - 3
MONTHLY CONTEST
Win Pearls for your Guild!
Participate in the monthly News of the Realms "Newsworthy" contest. Each
month, 4 pearls will be awarded to the account of the Guild with the most
"newsworthy" articles for that month! We're looking for works of art,
articles of fine literature, helpful hints of extraordinary brilliance,
poetic works which stir the soul, etc. The key word here is "newsworthy"...
only articles with substance will be counted in the contest!
To participate you need to:
- Indicate with your submission the name of your SANCTIONED guild. Only
Sanctioned Guilds are presently eligible to receive pearls for a Guild pearl
account.
- Write something!
ElvinPride's Quest - Part 2
(submitted by: ElvinPride)
A New Recruit
Elvin had thoroughly enjoyed his visit to the guild. Meeting all the members
was quite a delight. Aquaic's sense of humor; Fionna, who supplied the
feywine and good sense; Blu, the kind elf; Serrah and Lord Corak; Rotiss,
Leader of the Wildrunners; Porlor. All provided exciting entertainment. The
highlight of his evening was meeting Cyrwin and his wife-to-be, Leisel. They
both seemed to take him under thier arms like a blood-brother. Cyrwin,
acting as ambassador for the guild; had taken all by surprise that eve. "May
I have your undivided attention, brothers and sisters. Leisel has consented
to be my wife!", he had announced. Twas then that ElvinPride almost believed
the Guild Hall would collapse, as the elves all erupted in cheers. As the
celebration continued on that night, Cyrwin also pronounced Elvin a TCS
Recruit. The young elf from Brass Crown had never felt so honored, before
this incredible night. More revelry ensued, until Elvin had finally called
it a day, and retired to the inn.
Ambush in Nightsedge
Early the next evening, as the sun was beginning to dip below the horizon;
ElvinPride and a group of TCS Clan Members, set off on an adventure. Excited
about this opportunity and still beaming from being pronounced a recruit,
Elvin and the band of elves journeyed to the land of Nightsedge. The dusty
trail began narrowing as they reached the outer forest. "Beware! Toror'
Elvin," whispered Aquaic, "The forest is crawling with the enemy!".
ElvinPride heeded this warning as he quietly assumed position of rear guard.
Swiftly and without warning from behind him; a large, gnarled hand clasped
over his mouth! Before realising what was talking place, the surprised
wood-elf was pulled into the dense forest and carried away. The terrified
and helpless ElvinPride was unable to see the faces of his captors. Thier
stench was unmistakeable though. "OGRES!!", Elvin finally determined.
"Ohh..Noo..They EAT Elves!!"
A vision of himself being roasted over a fire was all it took! Able to
wriggle a hand free, Elvin slipped two fingers into his tunic. Fumbling for
his gold-handled dagger, he retrieves it; plunging it into the unexpecting
Ogres left eye. Screeching in pain, the foul creature drops Elvin. As
quickly and nimbly as is possible for an elf, the woodsman darts into the
bushes. Around a tree, over a fallen log, only to come face-to-face with
more Ogres! Summoning the power of the Gods; the elf-mage hurriedly casts a
fireball at the beasts, but not without ill consequences. A stray spear
finds its mark, impaling the chest of ElvinPride.
Somehow, the young recruit manages to crawl through the wilds outside
Nightsedge. Bleeding profusely, and knocking on death's door; Elvin parts
the underbrush to see the crumbling walls of the city. Darkness envelopes
the brave elf as he drops to the ground in exhaustion.
"Be strong, my protective Elf!", declares the voice of Leisel. Elvin opens
his eyes slightly to see the beautiful maiden tending to his wounds.
"Help..me", he mutters, before drifting again into darkness.
The Recovery
Many days had come to pass since ElvinPride's misfortune in the Nightsedge
forests. The hardy adventurer was rapidly recovering from his injuries,
thanks to Leisel. Awakening, Elvin finds himself all alone. Still weak,
although feeling well rested; he climbs off the cot and walks to the door.
"Where is everyone?", he questions himself. Pulling the thick, oak door
open; he sees Leisel, Cyrwin and two unfamiliar to him arguing in the village
square. (Teetoes and Motredeth were they, he found out later.) Harsh words
were being tossed about by all, rekindled from a time past. The conversation
breaks off abruptly as Cyrwin storms into the inn. Leisel quickly follows,
strain very much evident on her smooth elven face. The two strangers laugh
and walk away........
A Test of Love
Elvin steps back as Cyrwin troops by, Leisel scurrying quickly behind. "My
friends!! What is wrong?", voices young Elvin. "Motredeth, Cyrwin, and I
were arguing over heritage, my dear friend. Half-elves and full-elves.
Elvin, my position was defending the fact that all races have the right to
love one another. Cyr feels that humans, halfies and others are inferior.
But, this is not for you to be concerned with ElvinPride.", she states.
Leisel shifts her attention to Cyrwin. "Cyr, this is something I tend to
keep to myself, though that is how I feel.". Cyrwin hangs his head. "I...I
am so confused, Leisel.", his voice shaking as tears well in his eyes. Leisel
turns away hurt, a small tear appearing where none can see. "Cyrwin, I..",
she begins, her voice starting to quiver, "I..fear that I may have made the
wrong choice with you."
Elvin listens in dismay. Walking over to Cyrwin, he puts a knowing hand on
his shoulder, then turns and walks towards the fire. Sparkling trails have
marked Leisels face, wondering if she will ever be happy again. The High-Elf
sits, trying to unmix the tangled thoughts of leading the guild, his love for
Leisel, the yearning to return to Evermeet.....
Elvin looks up to see the tears on Leisel's face. Rising, he walks over and
offers his kerchief. "Here, M'lady", he says, seeing the tears brim in her
eyes. "Th..Thank you Elvin.", now sobbing, "At least one Elf I know has a
kind heart!". Elvin bows graciously and returns to the fireplace hearth.
"Elves only choose one!", Leisel carries on, "I have committed to you Cyr! I
have questions that need to be answered. There are certain things that we
need to straighten out!" Her heart breaking, unwept tears cascade down her
face....she wanting so much to make things right between them....
Cyrwin stands and walks toward her, arms extended. ElvinPride watches as he
enfolds her in his arms, her silent sobs finally break forth; shaking her
whole body. "I could not easily part from you Cyrwin. I have so chosen
you.", she whimpers. "Nor, could I part with you, Melamin", replies Cyrwin.
ElvinPride listens quietly, silently shedding his own tear. For he also, had
lost his beloved....the beautiful Krysthiial. His head drops as sleep slowly
overtakes the recovering, young wood-elf.Duergar Return!
(submitted by: Nikodemys)
The Lord Mayor of Nightsedge sighed heavily as he sifted through the most
recent reports. His brow creased with lines of frustration and worry. The
contents of the reports was grim. The activity of the local orc tribes had
increased. They seemed to have become more organized and driven. Already
several caravans had been attacked. Most had been destroyed leaving few
survivors. It seemed that there was some force behind this recent epidemic
of orcish attacks. The Lord Mayor frowned as he wondered who or what that
force could be. His thoughts were soon disturbed by a loud knock apon his
door.
"Enter," he called out in annoyance never lifting his gaze from the
reports which had darkened his mood.
"My Lord," the guards said pausing to wait for the Lord Mayor's
attention, " An emissary has arrived from Clan Axepeak. He request an
audience to speak with you on matters of grave consequence."
"Send him in," the Lord Mayor said dryly.
Moments later, A stocky dwarf entered the Lord Mayor's office. The dirt
and sweat of travel were apparent on the dwarf. This caused the Lord Mayor a
bit of concern. The news must be important for the dwarf to have come
straight to audience. The Lord Mayor nodded to the dwarf and gestured towards
a seat opposite from his own. The dwarf returned his nod and sat.
" A com bearin grim news, " the dwarf began without introductions, "Twas
near a two weeks ago dat a caravan 'eadin fer Neverwinter left tha mount.
Five days agos, since nae caravan 'ad return'd, a party a kin was sent ta
looks fer da caravan. Dar was six gud kin in da searchin party. Two days agos
'un kin frum da search party mades it back ta tha mount. 'is report was nae
gud. 'e tol a 'ow da foun da wreckage a da los' caravan an follow'd da tracks
a da attackers. Dem tracks lead ta tha caverns. Der was lots a orcs round da
entrance buts de sneak'd in. Da was set apon bys Duergar...."
"Crakskull has returned?" the Lord Mayor gasped.
The dwarven emissary looked darkened as he answered the Lord Mayor's
question, "Da 'un da made it backs seen sum Crakskul slags cept 'e said der
was a'least two udder clans. It seems da duergar hav return'd frum da
Underdark an de clans hav' banded tagether. Dis news bes grim fer ye as
well's fer me clan. Wes bes lookin ta sum dark days ahead."
The Lord Mayors face had whitened. Duergar had returned.........Shriek
(submitted by: ITB Skorp)
A story had reached the ITB Grandmaster of Bondage's ears. A tale of a
weapon, so unique, that Skorp new he must find it, he must see it, he must
take it.
Long ago, a particularly cruel wizard had a flail made. This flail, with
it's three spiked balls, was in itself a magnificent weapon. Lightweight, yet
crushingly forceful. The wizard has spent weeks enchanting the flail with a
very unique attribute. As the flail ripped and crushed a victim, it would
"remember" the screams of agony of the victim. Then, when brought into battle
next, as it was swung at the new opponent, it would release the blood
curdling cries for the enemy to hear. This always had a very disquieting
affect on the wielder's opponents, the cries released from this flail were
usually hideous, and no one who heard them could help but to fear that their
screams would be the next ones heard. The weapon was called "Shriek".
Skorp headed out in search of this flail. After a few weeks of following the
stories leads, Skorp found the feudal barony that the flail was kept in. The
local warlord was especially mean, often using Shriek against a rebellious
peasant, then swinging the flail around and around afterwards so that the
peasants could hear the fate of those who opposed the warlord.
Skorp approached the warlord. The man, knowing the power of House ITB, and
the riches of Skorp, was easy to bargain with. Skorp told the man, that the
entire ITB war machine would be called down upon his little barony unless he
struck a deal. After all, Skorp always gets what he wants. Grudgingly, the
man parted with Shriek for a hefty treasure, thousand upon thousands of
Jewels. As Skorp smiled and picked up the flail, he turned to walk away.
Suddenly, he turned swinging the flail around as he ducked down to catch the
foolish warlord in the knee. The man's kneecap exploded into a dozen pieces
and as he fell to the ground in pain, Skorp swung again, this time crushing
the man's arm. Limb after Limb Skorp crushed, until finally, shriek screaming
above him, he smashed the fool's head like a melon. Skorp scooped up his
jewels and left, a happy smile on his face.
When Skorp returned to the ITB complex, Shriek now cleaned, polished and
wrapped up, Teddi asked him where he had been, and what trouble he had gotten
into as she saw the little smile on his lips.
Handing the package over to Teddi, Skorp just said "Happy Anniversary Babe."
For a closer look at Shriek (and Teddi<g>) take a tour of Skorp's Tower at:
Http://users.aol.com/itbskorp/Skorp.Htm (The site's spelling is
case-sensitive!!)Renewed Fury
(submitted by: MECH Tal0n)
A lone rat scurries along the cold metallic plates which compose the surface
beneath its feet. It stops momentarily to languidly draw a dampened paw over
its quivering whiskers. Its attention is suddenly drawn away from the
cleansing by the sound of a low hum resonating from the shadows of the dark
chamber. The rodent drops to all fours as it begins to lumber into the
gloom. Clawed feet grasp for traction on the flawless metal surface as the
tiny form edges toward the strengthening reverberation.
A looming form begins to take shape as the creature ventures further. A
being of metal stands within the confines of a glass casing. Arcane symbols
periodically flicker within the glass surface, promising the sustenance of
the prone inhabitant. The being stands impassive, cold gray crevices mark
its eyes; an immobile slit its mouth. The figure's massive arms are crossed
across its chest defiantly and its hands end in razor sharp barbs that still
bear the stains of their morbid purpose. The metal construction's body
proudly displays a regal purple hue which remains vibrant despite the
extended slumber. Emblazoned upon the upper left quadrant of the figure's
breastplate is an ancient rune prominently labeled with the call sign of the
5th flight, Seraphic Malice.
A nearly inaudible squeak escapes the rodent as it cautiously advances over
the barren tiles. Primal instincts guide the creature's path toward the
blessed sanctuary of darkness which beckons from beyond the glass case.
Longing for the safety of familiar territory, furry haunches scramble to
propel the rat across the expanse and into the cool safety of the shadows.
Unfortunately for the unsuspecting creature, safety is often a mirage...
The humming culminates into a low buzz as the growl of an automated voice
echoes throughout the chamber - "Defense System - ARMED."
Fear freezes the rodent in its tracks as it frantically scans the walls for
cover. Its gaze finds a tiny circular hole in the near wall just as a
brilliant purple beam erupts from the opening and tears directly through its
soft abdomen. With flattened ears, the rat raises its head to squeal in
anguish only to find that its vocal cords have disintegrated. Blood erupts
from every orifice of the liquefied intruder before its organic form
explodes, scattering fragments of cartilage, bone, and gore about the room.
Thin rivulets of blood creep away from the remnants as the automated voice
rumbles, "Intruder Annihilated."
The beams of purple light retract and the room is once again bathed in
darkness.. momentarily. A soft red glow begins to dissipate the perfection
of the dark as the eye sockets of the metal figure fill with a crimson light.
The light strengthens as the eyes narrow and the corners of the being's mouth
rise into a malicious smirk. Two clawed hands lash out from their previously
passive position and drive the scalpel-like fingertips through the inch-thick
crystal casing. Jagged opening are left in the talons' wake as they carve a
path down the crystal surface. The temperature difference births tendrils of
white mist which twist away from the small chasms like tortured souls
desperately seeking freedom. Shards of crystal launch across the room as a
heavy boot shatters the weakened casing. A hollow boom echoes throughout the
compound as MECH Talon steps from the stasis unit and onto the floor of the
chamber.
Talon scans the ground which is littered with fragments of glass and death.
With an amused grin, Talon spies a substantial portion of the rat's detonated
skull.
"I owe you a debt of gratitude, my unfortunate friend. I had nearly
forgotten the glories of such carnage."
One clawed hand reaches over his shoulder and reappears holding a jet black
plasma rifle. The other claw lovingly traces its kiss down the rifle's
length, searching for any damage. A wicked smile creeps across Talon's face
as he inspects his uniform items and finds everything operational. Satisfied
with its status, he places the rifle back into the shoulder holster. As he
approaches the door which leads into the compound's main corridor, Talon
addresses one last comment to the vacant portion of the rat's skull which
still remains,
"Fear not, little one. I shall soon send a variety of beings to accompany
you in death."
With that, Talon bursts through the now open door of the stasis chamber and
strides through the compound toward his commanders' quarters. His footsteps
echo loudly through the metal hallways as he approaches the offices of the
MECH admirals. In the distance, he eyes a series of lights which blink
invitingly on a control panel beside and elaborate door. He advances
methodically, his heavy feet eliminating any possibility of stealth. Talon
stops outside the door, briefly contemplating the reception that awaits him
after his extended inactivity. The com unit on his wrist crackles to life as
MECH Ember's voice emanates from the unit, "Enter, Commander."
The door leaps upward to allow Talon's passage. He steps into the audience
chamber of the MECH upper echelon and turns to find MECH Deuce and MECH Ember
standing in the center of the room. His gaze meets that of 'Grand Admiral
Deuce' as a smile breaks onto the face of the MECH leader. Deuce's voice
fills the room as he addresses Talon,
"Good to see you again, brother. It has been far too long."
Talon nods in agreement as his eyes shift over to meet the appraising gaze of
'High Admiral Ember'. Ember's mouth contorts into an impish smirk as he
speaks, "So, Talon, what do you have to say for yourself?"
Talon's head tilts slightly forward as his crimson eyes narrow into slits of
anxious fury. His mouth curls into a sadistic grin as he reaches over his
shoulder and removes the plasma rifle from its holster. The barrel of the
weapon lowers to rest in his other palm as the weapon's power cell springs to
life in recognition of the grip. Talon turns his intimidating visage fully
upon Ember before presenting his answer...
"MECH Talon, reporting for duty.."Of Roses and Lillies
(submitted by: SWORDSHERE)
Sword ambled along the pathway towards Castle Stalker. As he walked, he
wondered if his absence from the realms during his recent trip to Fireshear
had cost him the chance to cpature the heart of the Mistress of the castle.
Squaring his shoulders, he decided that it was time to fish or cut bait, as
his father used to say.
From high above, a shrill cry sounded as Kyrelain, his War Hawk, indicated
that something was amiss. Sword did not hesitate but immediately sought the
heavy undergrowth of the forest alongside the road. Blending in with the
vegetation, Sword held his breath as he waited to see what had upset the
bird. He did not have long to wait, as the distant drumming sound of hooves
alerted the Ranger that a rider was approaching with haste.
As the figue appeared around the bend in the road, Sword realized that it was
Luthyen and that she was riding hard. Thinking that she might be pursued by
enemies, Sword began to chant the words of magic that would allow him to hurl
a massive fireball at the possible threat.
Before reaching his position, Luthyen turned her steed aside onto a side
path. The magic died on Sword's lips, as he watched Luthy dissappear.
Moving quickly to the point where Luthy had turned off the road, Sword gazed
down the trail.
"Hmmm..Nothing down there...unless..you can reach that lake by that path..the
lake with all of those lillies...but why would she be going...?" The answer
suddenly came to Sword. He grinned ruefully, sat down with his back against
a tree, and whistled sharply. Kyr flew down, and, in an unusual display of
civil behavior, perched gently on Sword's shoulder. Sword absently scratched
the bird's head, as he thought quietly.
Standing up, he turned back around towards the TP Keep. "Wellpp..Kyr..just
me and you, I guess...just like always..looks like Luthy has made her
decision. And ya know, I can't really blame her..we're such close
friends...I wouldn't want to lose that..Thorn's an okay guy..fer a
BoP..She'll be very happy with him, I think...Why don't you go get us a
rabbit or three for supper???"
The big hawk launched herself into the air. As she circled higher and
higher, a small object floated down from the sky. It descended softly and
landed just behind Sword, slightly out of his field of view. Had the Ranger
Lord turned around, he would have seen a beatiful white and red rose petal
lying gently on the ground....A Fire in the Sky - Part 1
(submitted by: SOL Saybr)
Submitted by Sol Saybr, the Dreamweaver of SOL...
The library in the keep was unusually vacant. Normally filled with acolytes
pursuing their studies, it currently only contained two soldiers, as the
acolytes were assembled for the war with the Night Masks. A female soldier,
Metria by name, was seated at a desk, writing something on paper. Often she
would glare up at the other soldier, who was pacing back and forth and
mumbling to himself. When she could finally stand it no longer, she threw
down her quill and stood up, hands on her hips.
"Saybr, ya know I like ya, but if you don't knock off that pacing, I'm gonna
HOLD YOU, SILENCE YOU, AND FEEB YOU FOR GOOD MEASURE!!!"
"Sorry, I didn't mean to distract you," came the reply from the warrior, who
moved over to a window.
Metria resumed her work, confident that she would have peace now.
"It's just that I feel so damnned helpless just waiting here while Shugar is
somewhere on the islands."
Metria sighs. "It's obvious that I'm not going to get anything done here.
Why don't we go for a ride? Maybe it will take your mind off things."
"Sure. Why not. Anythings better than this waiting around. I'll saddle up
two mounts and meet you at the stables in ten minutes."
Fifteen minutes later, they were trotting out of the keep, into Neverwinter
Woods. It was a clear, beautiful day without a cloud in the sky.
"Race you to the top of that hill....." Met challenged. She spurred her
horse to a gallop, not waiting for a reply. Saybr had no choice but to
follow. His black charger's muscles bunched and relaxed as he raced up the
hill. She turned and called, "Last one up is a rotten Ittie!"
As Saybr reigned in, Met stuck her tongue out and said, "I always knew you
were an Ittie."
Saybr grinned and replied, "Didn't you know? A gentleman always lets the
lady win." His horse snorted, as if in agreement. "Wow. Check out the view
from up here....You can see Triboar from here."
Suddenly, there's a loud booming sound, and a red-hot glowing sphere, about
15 feet in diameter, crashes from the sky into a copse of trees not far from
where they stood.
"What is that?" Met asked.
"Beats me, but I intend to find out...." Saybr replied, as he spurred his
mount.
To be continued...Fleur-de Lys
(submitted by: Ekaha)
Walking the night to her assurance, driven from the cave that was
supposed to be safe. Too much talking. too much light, confusion in every
room. False heat. Fleeing into the rain for the unsteady haven and solitude
of the graveyard. Don't know who will be there, but think it must be better.
So I walk, and the sky rains colds on me, and in time I arrive. The
graveyard is softly candlelit and there is shelter from the wind and water.
There is quiet, and there is Fleur. The rain slides in tears down the side
of my face and I am still shaking as I fall into the soft circle of her arms,
the security blanket of her breast. In her wide eyes, even larger behind
their fat plastic frames, the heat and summer green of a jungle warms the
chill dampening my bones. For a few moments I am lost in them again,
wandering. There is enough room for me to spend a lifetime exploring. Her
smile on my cheek welcomes me like home as she leads me by the hand to my
stone. Her calm always drowns or softens the voices in my head. She serves
me coffee I don't need, and strokes inside my wrist, and the demon sits down
to rest.Athlete's Tongue
(submitted by: MrBill888)
Once again with my foot in my mouth
I have caused my OGS friends to all head south
Hey, if I brushed my teeth with Dr. Scholls
Would ye think of me higher than Yeeagnu's gnolls?
I call this disorder, an Athletes tongue
I have had this malady, but not since I was young
For my OOC health has had me feeling quite poorly
And I did wound my good friends as I behaved quite sorely
I have made my mistakes and they are many indeed
But for forgiveness I ask, neigh I humbly plead
Not to rejoin, but to heal hurt emotions
And not just to go through some tenuous motions
'Tis best that I'm gone, for I never turn back
But if ye need any help, I will never be slack
So call on my aid, when I am back in this land
And accept the apology from my repentant and outstretched hand
Mr.Bill888
Warrior Poet
Former OGS member
I Calls Me Love Amaya!
(submitted by: MoradinSon)
<<<sung to the tune of "They Call the Wind Mariah">>>
"I CALLS ME LOVE AMAYA!"
by Storm MoradinSon
I sings this song ta tells a tale
A tale o' how I comes ta...
Love a tall, an beardless lass
Her name is called Amaya!
Amaya, Amaya, her name is called Amaya!
One night quite late, there came a call
Across the land o' Faerun
"Against my charms I'll face you all!"
Amaya was a darin!
Amaya!, Amaya! That Charmin Lass, Amaya!
A dozen lads rushed to her side
an' scrambled all around her
But her charms could nae be denied
As she spread her charmin power
Amaya, Amaya, That Charmin Lass Amaya!
Among the lads, of wealth and fame
Who came to try to win her
I came to swear that by my name
"I'll eats this booth fer dinner!"
Amaya, Amaya, I lost out to Amaya!
"No gangly lass wifout a beard
will ever dast ta charms me!"
But Moradin, my prayer nae heard
An' th' lass became me sweetie!
Amaya!, Amaya!. I loves th' Lass Amaya!
I wrotes home ta me ma & da
To tells uf my new lover
"She's the purtiest thin I ever saw,
There's no beauty tha's above-her!"
Amaya!, Amaya!, That beauteous lass, Amaya!
Me ma & da they says, "it's wierd
An kin will makes fun of ya!"
"Taint nutchral fer she has nae beard!"
But I still loves Amaya!
Amaya, Amaya, That beardless lass Amaya!
Amaya lass, I luvs ye dear
I'm plannin up our weddin!
By ales I'll pass ta haves ye near!
For our huneymoon beddin!
Amaya!, Amaya!, Me gangly bride Amaya!
Amaya!, Amaya, Me loves me lass Amaya!
Ode to Eight Leggers with a Matching IQ
(submitted by: SOL Bard)
As I looked through the cobwebs and halls in the land
I could find no eight-leggers to smite with my hand
So instead I will attack these arrachnids with verse
Which will most likely make 'em feel much quite the worse
Oh ye who are drunk on the blood of the dead
Is there not one decent thought in yer spiderlike head?
Can it be that the webs that ye spin through the woods
Have caused ye brain damage, behind your black hoods?
This spiderlike critter who extended his neck
Shall we smash him to arach-dust, well sure..what the heck
Ye travel in shadows, but I know yer true fright
For darkness is dispelled by the SOL light
So run while ye can, you vile eight legged bugs
For I recognize you only as weak little lolthian thugs
Whose only true pleasure can be playing with pain
But ye won't be the cause, for yer less than inane
The Pen can be mighty, and can cut right through the heart
And even a webhead will realize they just ain't so smart
For our guild doesn't fight just with only our swords
But you fight both our steel tempered hearts and our words
So run little buggies lest ye get caught in yer flight
And perish through messing with the SOL might
Now, as to the weak little hatchling who invaded our boards
Just stay hidden in shadows, lest your carcass be floored
Go scurry away with your tail betweenst yer legs
And go suckle the nozzles of a dozen drow kegs
For it's clear that your courage will need quite a lift
Afore ye come again invading any SOL shift
SOL Bard
Warrior Poet
Cobweb Burner (:>) (:>)
Elven Saga - Part 1
(submitted by: Nilgeit)
It was pouring down rain just after sunset. The elf stood, tightly
wrapped in a magical cloak, a few feet off the path. His horse was tethered
two score yards away, near his tent. The elf waited.
It was beginning to bother him, all this time on the road. He'd managed
to stop in Neverwinter for a few hours--enough to hear of the upcoming war
with an evil guild, but not long enough to contribute--but he found himself
spending less and less time with his adopted family, the guild known as The
Protectorate. First problems at home, in Mistledale...the upstart outlaw who
declared himself mayor and began exterminating nobles. Then trouble in
Westgate, where he'd had to rebuild his favorite orphanage from scratch after
a suspicious fire had burned it down. More suprising, the tavern he'd
invested in had also strangely caught fire within a month, though quick
action had saved it. Now he'd heard rumors of trouble in the Greycloaks,
where his parents and clan still lived. And to top it all off....
The figure shuffled into view along the path, left shoulder stooped and
dragging one hand along the ground. Even bent over it was huge, brushing the
tree branches with twelve feet of height. It wore no cloak or hood, allowing
the elf to see a hideously deformed face, with a squashed nose, eyes of
different size and facing seperate directions, and what looked like a budding
horn above the right ear. Its clothes, by loose defenition, consisted of
strips of cloth and small bits and pieces of leather. The elf frowned. It
was a fomorian, kin to giants and common to the Greypeak Mountains, near his
home. Not excessively intelligent, but difficult in a fight, they were
treacherous and wicked creatures.
Another figure, size difficult to judge but appearing about 2' tall,
perched on the giant-kin's shoulder. This one he'd seen before, several
times, but had been unable to catch. A finely crafted longbow, purchased in
Red Larch for just this occasion, leaned against a tree, strung but still
covered in oilcloth. He'd had to talk to a few sages to figure this one
out--it was an urd, similar to a kobold. In the darkness the elf couldn't
see the ivory horns or distinctive eyes, and the urd's 8' wings were furled
tight around it, but he knew they were there.
The question was why they were following him, and had been for nearly 20
days.Farewell
(submitted by: Thorn Hawk)
Coming down the stairs early in search of breakfast, I made my way into
the common room. Sitting at a table near the fire, I waved the innkeeper
over. "Well met good sir," said the innkeeper as he made his way to my
table. "And to thee sir," I replied, "could I get something to eat this
morning or is it still too early?"
"No sir, I can have some wild goose eggs and pork side with some fresh
baked bread brought out shortly."
"Ah, that sounds delicious," I declared as the innkeeper headed into the
kitchen.
As I waited for my breakfast and drank the hot spicy drink a serving
girl brought to me, my eyes roamed the room. The Griffon inn was a quiet
place early in the morning. There were not many people seated in the other
seats. A pair of sailors, sitting a few tables over, conversed in hushed
whispers.
"The Gallant Prince is back in port."
"Aye, I have heard the same, but they say it is cursed."
Nodding, "it is haunted by the ghosts of the crew. The ship looks
fearful as well, the sails all tattered and the wood falling apart at the
touch."
"It has made finding work hard these past few weeks," replied the other
sailor falling into a brooding silence.
Engrossed in the conversation, I failed to notice the innkeeper walking
toward me with a platter of food only the wonderful smell allowed me to greet
his arrival. "It smells delicious," I remarked as he set the platter before
me. A plate heaped high with eggs and pork along with a loaf of dark bread
sat on the platter. A small plate held a honeycomb for dipping the bread.
"I hope this will satisfy you sir?" "It will good innkeeper, it will," I
replied as he made his way toward another customer.
Savoring the delicate taste of my egg, I noticed a figure enter the inn.
It was a young man carrying a small shield. It was light green like the pale
grass of spring with a yellow cross. There could be no mistaking the symbol.
The man noticed my scrutiny and moved toward my table. "Hail traveler, I'm
known as Ashbrander." Standing so my cloak fell away, revealing a dark green
tunic with yellow trim and a small white unicorn head over my heart, I
addresed Ashbrander, "well met Ashbrander, my name is Thorn Hawk and it is a
pleasure to finally meet thee."
"The pleasure is mine, Thorn Hawk. I've heard of you and enjoyed your
tales told around the bunkhouse."
Sitting back down, we talked about the others of the brotherhood for
I've been away too long and missed their company. After finishing our
breakfast, I beckoned Ashbrander upstairs to my room. Inside, I moved over
to my pack taking from it a polished shield, a fine set of banded mail and a
scimitar. "I would give thee a few gifts brother for your equipment looks
worn though well kept." Quickly changing out of his old armor, Ashbrander
was amazed at the lightness of the new mail. "It fits, though it looked too
large when you were holding it," commented Ashbrander taking the scimitar and
giving it a few swings. "Aye brother, it is magical and so is the scimitar
ye hold in your hands."
"What do I owe you for these gifts, Thorn Hawk?"
"Only that ye accompany me on a quest of the Gallant Prince."
"The Gallant Prince?"
"Aye, it has drifted back into port with its crew gone and only ghosts
left to haunt her hold."
Smiling, "sure I'll join you on your noble quest, but you must tell me
more of your tales."
Laughing, we headed for the docks and the Gallant Prince while I spoke
of my travels around the realms. Approaching the ship, a guard warned us
back, but we didn't heed his advice. Pressing on, we entered the ship and
searched every room. To our dismay, all we encounter were skeletons and
those we quickly dispatched. Reaching the foredeck, we descended some stairs
into the hold. Feeling an evil presence, I drew my sword and motioned for
Ashbrander to do the same. With stealth, we advanced when three cloaked
figures moved out of the shadows to confront us. I moved into their midst
only to stop in horror as one of the creatures removed her hood revealing a
reptilian visage with live snakes for hair. As she gazed in my direction, I
quickly looked away, raising my shield to ward her evil gaze. Luck was with
me as she beheld her own reflection in my polished shield causing her to
slowly turn to stone. Fearing for my companion, I dropped my sword and
relied on my skills as a mage. Taking two small metal nails from a pouch at
my belt, I said the words to the most powerful spell I knew. Ashbrander
charged into the fray killing the Medusa not affected by my spell. With a
powerful thrust, I finished the last of the creatures.
In a far corner of the hold we found the remains of the ships' captain.
We both took a button from his coat to show Lord Nasher what befell the
captain of the Gallant Prince. Making our way out of the hold, overjoyed at
our success, we failed to notice the odor until it was too late.
We stood in the captains quarters surrounded by bugbears and a huge
green troll. Charging the troll, yelling, "AAAAAIIIIIIIEEEEE," I slew him
before he could raise his clawed hands in defense. Ashbrander entered the
fight swinging his scimitar at a bugbear who deftly defected the blow, but
failed to get out of the way of the counter. He died as his brethren
enveloped us in a ring of steel. We stood back to back awaiting the bugbears
to make a mistake. Their spear thrusts were parried by our swiftly moving
swords, but the beasts were leaving themselves open to counters in their rush
to kill us. It was their last and final mistake.
Returning to the inn, a bard started to sing for the pleasure of the
evening crowd. Stowing our gear in my room and refreshing ourselves in a
basin of cold water, we returned down the stairs to enjoy the merriment and
celebrate our victory.
In memory of Ashbrander, a friend and brother. May his travels in other
realms be safer than those he found here.
Thorn Hawk,
BOPThe Catch
(submitted by: Shiver Hel)
Floodblest slumbered like a hatchling after its first meal of would-be dragon
slayers. The Neverwinter River was its tail, wrapped about the surrounding
woods. The few who transversed the lizard-ridden trail might have heard the
gurgling of the slight current on the rocks or a deep chuckle... and a quick
splash as the dark elf jerked his bare feet away from the tiny bubbles; you
see, I'm ticklish.
The fact that a drow relaxed on the shore wasn't terribly odd. The unusual
midnight blue of my skin and my squinting violet eyes might have caught some
attention, but even that was unlikely. It was the serenity. It hadn't been
so quiet in Floodblest since the days following the march of the orc armies
from Felbarr. And I was a young, hungry dragon then, not much older nor
patient than those from the Temple of Lolth.... probably not the creature to
inspire a parade of tasty--
Oh, I see you're confused; this dark elven form is a guise, a polymorphed
identity. I didn't mean "dragon" figuratively. I'm a deep dragon from
Veldrinshar, under the Anuaroch. Trust me, you wouldn't like the tales of my
youth. I was a consort, of sorts, to the Matron of House Despana... very
sordid and mercenary. Suffice it to say, Floodblest was very quiet.
A Protectorate patrol passed like an unexpected storm, probably intent on
Nightsedge, intent on more... exciting missions. I felt like a morbid angel
in the wake of their presumptuous glory; everything about them was polished
and bright, while only my eyes and grin cast light on the purple cloak and
darksteel arsenal I relied upon.
I awaited a friend, knowledgable in the Way of the Trees. He wasn't an elf,
but Santee acted like one. He was a consumate tracker and I envied his skill
with a blade. We were going to fish. Yes, fish... I find it relaxing,
though I almost never catch a thing. It was therapy, a method for developing
patience. And patience was something I never mastered in all twelve
centuries of my life; I blame that on being surrounded by rivvin.
I pulled my fishing rod from the bag of holding I received from Lord Nasher,
himself, shifting a few spare wands out of the way. It was a good shadowtop
rod, laced with enchanted platinum. Bronze CzJ had given me the lure. It
looked suspiciously like a spoon, but CzJ knew fish... and I only longed to.
Even the line was unique, a fine mithral alloy. Unlike most dragons, my
hoard was purely a means to an end--happiness.
I made a clumsy cast, but the lure plopped into the deep shadows on the far
shore. Santee said the big bass swam there. I waited. I waited some more.
Gardian and Sara the Seeker rode by, looking quite happy. The merrily
chatted away with great big, mortal smiles on great big mares that would have
made a fine snack. I thought I heard something about a wedding. I
recognized their expressions... it was confidence in love; I remembered what
that felt like. Even dragons know the meaning of heart, though many try to
forget.
A tug on my line drew me from my melancholoy reverie--a sharp tug I felt
through my enchanted gauntlets. Santee was right.... big bass, indeed!
Another pull nearly sent me spilling into the river. I performed a quick
enchantment, enlarging myself. I felt silly, fearing another pork-chop
practical joke by Odinsun, but couldn't help it. The fish was strong.
I braced my bare feet on the rocks that lined the shore and put my back into
it; the line wouldn't snap. Its head came out of the water like a electric
blue mountain with steel grey eyes and rows of sharp teeth. It was vaguely
draconian. My mind raced to identify it as its full form emerged into the
shallows. It had at least ten pair of legs, but was built like my serpent
form--sinewy and low to the ground, powerful. Each leg ended in a stout set
of talons. Suddenly, my enchantment felt like a feeble defense.
It opened its maw and snapped. The lure was hooked in the depths of its
throat, but the line held. It seemed to puff itself up and--
The blast caught me square in the center of my chest. Heat and pain raced
over me. I was blinded by the flash and the involuntary change in form.
Suddenly, in the quiet Floodblest forest, amid the stench of ozone, an
ancient wyrm crouched, deep purple scales thicker than the shaft of Shirak's
flail... My fishing pole floated in pieces, drifting down the river, still
aglow with scorching embers and melted platinum. The creature was gone. And
the dusty crimson scales of my underbelly ached from the impact of the bolt.
"Behir," came a voice from behind me.
I resumed my dark elven form as quickly as I had lost it, and reached for my
mace. Santee reclined against an oak, his patient smile in place, as if
lightning hadn't just nearly winded me.
"Did ye see it?" I called, like a giddy school boy, dropping my mace. "It
was huge!" I spread my enlarged arms to demonstrate the size of the beast.
"The Council will never believe ye.... just another fish-that-got-away
story..." He was right, of course, but that wouldn't stop me from telling
them.
Shiver Hel
Scribe, Council of Wyrms
Catcher of Big Fish... Really!Top Ten Signs You've Been Playing Too Much NW!
(submitted by: Wgbt)
Welcome to the Ate show with Wagebolt!
It's been six months since I made a Top Ten for NW News, so here's one to
bring back old times!
Introducing!
TOP TEN SIGNS YOU'VE BEEN PLAYING TOO MUCH NEVERWINTER
<here we go>
10)You sign your checks with zeros instead of "O"s and ones instead of "I"s
and "L"s
9)You get pulled over for speeding and the first thing you say to the police
officer is either "HAIL TO THEE!" or "WHAT DO YOU WANT WUSS?" depending on
your alignment.
8)You get punted, and in rage begin pounding at the computer with a lucern
hammer
7)You claim that Mad cows are actually Minotaurs in disguise!
6)You chant along at your computer desk with the spells you cast.
5)In the back of your mind you think sometimes, "The fun ship cruise is for
newbies."
4)You see a "Vertically-Impaired" person and wonder where his beard and axe
is.
3)You insist on calling everywhere you drink a ,"Tavern"
2)If you play chess, you insist that the Bishop is able to throw ,"hold"
spells, and that the knight can "Sweep" the opponents.
1)You travel to Washington D.C. expecting to find Lord Nasher's Palace there
instead of the White House!
<Throws blue index card>
{CRASH}
Wagebolt,
(WorldWide plate)Wild Mage
(submitted by: SOMNeranek)
As he perused the message board in the entry way of the Tower of Mystery,
several posts caught Neranek's eye.
- Cer's Pronunciation guide to SOM Names. $5.00 for your
copy available at finer book stores in Floodblest. -
Neranek chuckled at that one. I wonder how accurate Cer is this time, he
thought to himself.
- Missing 50# bag of Cat-nip. If found return to Lynx. -
Neranek looked stunned. "By Mystra!..50 pounds of the stuff..Remind me to
stay away from Lynx if he ever finds it!"
- Sign up for the Knights of the Mystic Fire -
Looking at the list of names pencilled in, Neranek nodded his approval.
- Wild Magic area reported in WindyCliffs area -
"Wild Magic, eh..Looks like I have a mission in front of me."
Every now and then these areas where magics cast go awry seem to pop up
around Neverwinter and truly throughout all of Faerun. They typically are
minor disruptions to the Magical Weave that surrounds Faerun and allows for
spell casting.
Gathering his cloak of displacement around him, Neranek turned and glided out
of the Tower and into the courtyard. Stopping to admire the roses for a
moment, Neranek begin calling to mind the components for his spell. In a
moment, a Dimension Door grew from the ether. It's shimmering doorway
beckoning to him, Neranek stepped through the portal and found himself at the
gateway between WindyCliffs and the Warehouse district.
Seeing many other travellers on the path, Neranek glided closer to a large
group and inquired if anyone had seen anything strange.
Turning away from a discusion on the merits of Drac bashing, a burly fighter
reported "well, there is something funny going on just south of the Inn.
When I travelled nearby there a short time ago, I kept seeing fireballs
flying up into the air and exploding. Does that help you?"
"Aye, indeed it does, my thanks." Turning with a swish of his cloak, Neranek
headed down the path towards the inn. Stopping a few times along the path
the educate some errant Lizard Men on proper travel etiquette, Neranek
quickly came to an area where he knew a secret path led off through the
woods.
Neranek decided to test the waters of the Weave and cast a fireball spell up
into the air over the secret path. As the blazing ball of fire shot up into
the air, he was shocked to see another ball of fire come streaking up from
the woods. The two fireballs struck with a thunderous explosion that threw
Neranek to the ground.
Stunned, Neranek picked himself up. That wasn't what he was expecting at
all. Usually a wild magic area would cause a spell to misfire and become
something else, not fire off a counter spell. Frowning, he decided to
investigate further. Vanishing from sight as he cast his invisibility spell,
Neranek further confirmed that there was nothing amiss with the weave here,
but something else was plagueing the area.
Stepping caustiously down the path, Neranek stole by the lair of the harpy
that he knew lay nearby and came to a sudden halt. There was movement coming
from the winding path ahead of him. Neranek stood back and let his
invisibility spell go to work for him.
Out of the shadows came a figure exuding confidence. The mage was dressed in
a sleek outfit that seemed to be made from Sembian silk. Over one shoulder,
he wore a long black cape that fell nearly to the ground. The cape was
pinned to his outfit by a garish golden pendant shaped in the form of crossed
swords. His outfit was completed by a pair of knee length black boots.
It was his face that captured Neranek's attention the most. Beneath a shock
of red hair, the right side of the mages face was scarred and pinched up.
His right eye had suffered some trauma and was milky white. His lips were
drawn up into a snarl. Pausing the mage, tipped his head as if listening.
"I know you are here, you, the one who cast that fireball spell." the mage
whispered, "I can hear your breathing. Why have you come when most have
fled. Reveal your foolish self to me."
Swinging his arm as if to attack, Neranek caused his invisibility spell to
cancel. "Who are you and why are you disturbing this area?"
Turning to face the now revealed Neranek, the mage replied "Because I can,
because I want to, and because I knew it would draw attention from your ilk.
Because it please me for you to know before you die, my name is Gilad and I
have been sent to attempt to disrupt the weave in this area."
"Sent? By whom."
"I think you already know that, since your garb identifies you as a member of
the Servants of Mystery. Your goddess' enemy is my lord and master. Cyric
has taken note of your band and your stain will be cleansed from this land."
With that, Gilad began his attack. Calling out the words to a silence spell,
Gilad targeted Neranek's flail. Realizing what had just happened as he could
no longer speak, Neranek hurled his flail in Gilad's direction. Just as the
flail was about to strike him, lightning crackled up from a ring on Gilad's
right hand and created a barrier against entry. The flail flew away to land
a short distance away.
"I will give you one chance to recant your support to Cyric, Gilad. If you
insist on continuing on your path, I must punish you."
A throaty laugh came from Gilad, as he dropped into a crouch and fired off a
lightning bolt spell. The bolt arced towards Neranek and passed within about
a foot of his frame. Neranek offered up a short word of thanks to Mystra for
blessing him with a Displacer Cloak. Tipping his head to one side, Neranek
made ESP contact with Gilad. "You were warned" was his message.
"Why do you send telepathically worm? Is your tongue afraid to speak," crowed
Gilad.
"Hardly," replied Neranek, "I merely wanted to see how well shielded your
mind is." With that said, Neranek struck with the most powerful weapon in
his arsenal. All Servants of Mystery are charged to uphold the magical
Weave, and Mystra provided a powerful tool to separate one from the ability
to use magic. As the FeebleMind took hold, Gilad's one good eye went blank.
As Gilad fell to his knees on the ground, Neranek whispered "You were
warned." Neranek turned then and walked away, leaving the gibbering form of
Gilad to the forest.(submitted by: SWORDSHERE)
So, you say that you been running out to Westbridge to smash the giants, but
the only smashing you been doing is when you go flying through the gate??
Well..its your lucky day..let me share a tip with you all that will almost
guarantee your solo success in this massive 45k XP fight that often gives
nice magical items to the victor.
** BTW, this tip pertains ONLY to the Giant fight at Westbridge 5,0.**
Here's what ya do:
Once you've entered the fight, go to your right one space, down two spaces,
and to your right two more spaces. This should place you on a rock between
two trees and immediately to the left of the NPC's (2 Fire Giant Mages, 2
Cloud Giant Mages, and 3 Storm Giants). Now, why would you want to get this
close, you ask??..If you stay put in that spot the Storm Giants will not be
able to hit you with their Lightning Bolts:> Furthermore, the NPC's will
have a tendency to stay in their orginal spots and not surround you..and
believe me..that is a very good thing;)
After your first two casts, one of the CG mages, if it's still alive, will
come to you. The only other NPC's which will close on you are the Fire Mages
and only in the later rounds. (Occasionally, a Storm Giant resists your best
efforts and will close on you late in the fight..at that point, he will throw
an LB, so get him quickly!)
Everybody has preferences on how to run this fight, but let me give you all a
basic scenario. Hopefully, this will be a benefit for new adventurers and
those of you who have not run this fight very much:>
Prep Spells: The "basics:" Haste, Mirror Image, Globe. These will be enough
to get you through. Of course, you can add Bless, Prayer, Protection etc.
The only spells which these monsters cast that the Globe won't catch is the
Posion and Dispell Magic which the CG Mages like to throw around:) You might
also wish to drop the mirror and add a Fire/Cold Shield.
Offensive spells: On your first two rounds you may wish to throw FB's. This
should soften up the nasties and set them up for a nice follow up with two
rounds of Ice Storms. Those four rounds will almost always clear the CG
Mages, the Storm Giants and, if you can throw high HP Ice Storms, perhaps one
of the Fire Giant Mages. If for some reason at any time, you have to choose
which NPC to attack..make sure to clear the CG mages first..they will cast
direct dis on you and poison. Now..a little tip on the Fire Giant Mages:
Pay attention; they nearly always will Fire Shield. Its a sure trip to the
gate for a hasted Ranger/Pal to whack the shielded Giant. Here's the easy
way to kill these things: Wait until they both close on you, then cast Cloud
Kill on them. Move one space out of their range...no more. You've got
them..I've never seen a Fire Giant Mage move out the cloud, if you stay
close. You can simply watch as the Cloud does the work for you. :) They
will lose spells, be unable to cast, and be taken out long before the cloud
clears. If you can only cast CK on one Fire Giant Mage, do it. The other
one will be susceptible to Stink Cloud, Hold, Fumble, Slay, etc. They seem
to have weak saves:> (Of course, and I'm not advocating this, you could cast
your own dis magic on the Fire Giant Mages to drop their shields and
globes..but its not really necessary.)
So, here's a quick summary:
1.) Get yourself into that protected position. DO NOT MOVE OUT OF IT!
2.) Unload your offensive area spells - Fireball, Ice Storm.
3.) If you have to choose, gate the CG Mages first.
4.) Clear any remaining Storm Giants.
5.) Let the Fire Giant Mages approach you and CK them;>
6.) If one of the Fire Giant Mages escapes, SC, Hold, Fumble, Slay it;)
Finally, grab the goodies (always take the 2-handed swords which the Storm
Giants carry..they are +2 and can be sold @ 625 gps) and head back to Tri.
This will reset the fight and you can heal, fix, and head right back.
I can't take credit for discovering the "safe spot" all by myself. I learned
it from UDL Slayer (Yes, even evils can be nice on occasion!) who in turn
learned it from Sir Lione of The Protectorate. The spell choice and basic
scenario is wholly mine though:)
Now get out there and show the Giants who's boss!!
Happy Hunting:>
Swordshere
Ranger Lord of The Protectorate(submitted by: SOMNeranek)
#12 - Saving MU Scrolls for training
To aid you in learning as many magic-user spells as possible, as quickly as
possible, here is my method for learning.
Step 1. Make a list of all of the Magic-user spells available in the game.
They are listed in the documentation that NW puts out for the game, or you
can e-mail SOMNeranek and I will send you a one page checklist ready made.
Step 2. Most characters begin as some class other than Mage. Usually
Cleric, although Paladin is another favorite. As you begin adventuring, you
will invariably gather MU scrolls during your travels. Save them in your
vault for when you dual to Mage class.
Step 3. Once you dual, have all of your scrolls ID'd by a shopkeeper or cast
Read Magic.
Step 4. Mark off on your checklist all of the spells that you have on
scrolls and the few beginning spells that you are started out with.
Step 5. Scribe any of the Level 1 scrolls and put the rest back in your
vault.
Step 6. As you gain levels and train, you are given 1 freebie spell per
level. Pick a spell that you don't have checked off on your list. No sense
in wasting a freebie choice on something that you have in your vault is
there?
Step 7. Pickup any scrolls from your vault that you are now of high enough
level to scribe and scribe em :)
Step 8. Repeat steps 6 - 7 until maxxed.(submitted by: Krastliun)
I am in desperate need of a business partner. I want to start a trading
guild. Anyone interested please contact me.
-KrastliunS(submitted by: SR Stellar)
SR Stellar and the Star Lancers prepare to focus their Roleplay energy.
**The White Knight kneels at the center table and waits for the Lancers to do
likewise**
1. Never tell the other Roleplayers what they are doing...(this destroys
that portion of Roleplay for them and takes away any choice they had in the
matter) Choice and personal actions are a center point of Roleplay.
**Stellar opens a drawer in the table and withdraws a large, white crystal.
The crystal is held within a stone replica of a dragon's claw. Stellar
explains to the Lancers that this crystal shall help them to focus their
Roleplay energies**
2. Always explain anything new you plan to introduce into the Roleplay. Give
all the information necessary for the others to understand what it means or
does to the Roleplay. Regardless of who/what/where it should be introduced,
explained and placed into the Roleplay.
**Stellar pauses for a moment to allow this information to settle**
3. Patience -- Roleplay should not be a rapid, fast paced process. Where
everyone is trying to post an entire new event in a single post...leaving no
room for any change in that particular path. By doing so, you rob everyone
else the opportunity to act during that time frame.
**The White Knight continues kneeling and focusing energy on the crystal**
4. Consistency -- Tie all of your own posts together. If you were an angry,
axe-wielding dwarf in the previous post...continue as the same in the next.
Or explain why you are now happy and carrying flowers.
**As stellar kneels at the table, a small kitten bites his leg. He smiles
and shows the Lancers the blood flowing from the puncture marks in his leg.**
5. No one in Roleplay is omnipotent. Even the most powerful demon-god may
be struck down by a lowly serf with a pitchfork...given the proper
circumstance and good Roleplay. Ranking within guilds and such should be
merely a guideline. Just because I am the guild master does not mean that a
simple kitten can't kill me dead with it's magically, poisonous bite.
**Stellar's skin suddenly becomes vivid green and he collapses to the floor**
6. Overplay -- Don't overplay an event. Others may wish to perform an
action at times and are consistently beaten out by those who jump into every
situation and solve everything that was wrong. ( I myself have done this a
couple times ) Which is why we must focus and allow all to get involved.
What good is Roleplay if it is between 2 or 3 people who go back and forth
doing everything to everyone.
**Stellar glances around to see who revived him from the kitten's poison**
7. Confirmation -- If you don't understand something ask the person who
posted to clarify...also if you disagree with something that was posted,
state your disagreement. Others may feel the same way and just not said
anything (for whatever reason)
**The White Knight scratches the kitten on the chin and creating a ball of
red string, dangles it before the playful kitten.**
8. Fun -- Why Roleplay if you can't have fun. We do this because we enjoy
it, or hope to enjoy it (at least) Remember that others wish to have fun as
well and encourage them to do so. By doing so you will make the entire
experience something that everyone will wish to continue being involved in
and will bring others into it as well.
"That is all I have to say on the matter....Now lets get out there and Ride
through the stars."
SR Stellar
"The White Knight"<><><><><>
<><><><><>
Gimme a Scoop! Enter the weekly News of the Realm contest by submitting text
for publishing. If your Announcement, Article, Helpful Hint, NW Abby
Question, Poem, Fiction, or Tidbit wins, you'll have won your choice of 4
Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes)! Submit all text to
screenname: NW NEWS.
<><><><><>
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MONTHLY CONTEST STARTS IN JULY!!
Win Pearls for your Guild!
Participate in the monthly News of the Realms "Newsworthy" contest. Each
month, 4 pearls will be awarded to the account of the Guild with the most
"newsworthy" articles for that month! We're looking for works of art,
articles of fine literature, helpful hints of extraordinary brilliance,
poetic works which stir the soul, etc. The key word here is "newsworthy"...
only articles with substance will be counted in the contest!
To participate you need to:
- Indicate with your submission the name of your SANCTIONED guild. Only
Sanctioned Guilds are presently eligible to receive pearls for a Guild pearl
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