==========oOo========== NEVERWINTER NEWS Issue # 93 Week Ending 7-29-95 ==========oOo========== *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* FRONT PAGE *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Congratulations to Niasen for winning last week's News of the Realm contest. Niasen has earned choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes) WTG! <><><><><> <><><><><> ***August Trivia*** Please join NW Baldor and NW Strahd for a night of fun and prizes, while we test your knowledge of Neverwinter Nights Trivia! :) Date: Tuesday, August 1, 1995 Time: From 10:00 PM to 11:30 PM EDT Place: The Great Hall And those prizes to be awarded to the Winners:* First Place - 4 FREE hours and 25 Pearls Second Place - 3 FREE hours and 20 Pearls Third Place - 2 FREE hours and 15 Pearls (*all winners will recieve GOH access if they don't have it already) Hope to see you there! :) NW Strahd and NW Baldor <><><><><> <><><><><> Fireball Booth 7/23/95 Winner- tarcil Prize- 4 pearls and 1 hour of time Feeling restless, I was exploring Southwall, seeking the hidden den of thieves that was rumored to be in the area. I found my self cornered by a group of players who challenged my prowess as a lowly NWA. Being sworn to uphold the honor of Neverwinter, I allowed 14 of them to cast their best 2 fireballs at me. I promised that the best of the surley mob would be amply rewarded by Lord Nasher. Those who participated were: Tarcil (the winner with 60 hp of damage) Kholari -55 Gut Worm - 37 Pure Good - 38 Ldy Mason - 45 Diamondvel- 36 Malhereuse-43 Tamminy-31 Jack Henle-37 ITB Trump-55 Nor Aglav-40 Lrd Tyler-56 Hotshield-39 Dethstr1ke-37 Although gravely wounded by some casts, I did survive to tell this tale. NWA Shaka <><><><><> <><><><><> The Tour de Wall.... ;> Our merry band of brave adventurers left NW City for Southwall in search of thieves. Guizmo, Scorpio950, Arutha Sun, Lifesdeath, and Thor213 travelled with me. We visited several areas in search of the thieves, but were unable to locate them. So we turned towards Vilnask. The road to Vilnask was filled with evil creatures attempting to bar our way... battle after battle was valiantly fought... one by one members of our group left to pursue their own paths... in the end, Arutha Sun and I made it to Vilnask Inn, thanks to the help of Sunglitz and Talgar :> NWA Skye <><><><><> <><><><><> Once again..Lord Nasher has called upon me to lead a band of brave adventurers to see about rumours from the town of Port Llast. Rumours of beasts driveing people from thier homes, merchants from thier shops. I wondered who fate would bring to me this day as I waited in the Gardens of Neverwinter for the brave to show. One by one they entered the gardens..and walked over to greet me..weapons at the ready..fire in thier hearts. Laelin S, Green Sir, Waylane, Green Blad, Raxus, Ning Ti and the lovely Shaydey would be the ones to adventure with me this day. The journey through Windy Cliffs was proven less difficult by the discovery of a secret passage..rumoured to be used by Kraken spies and Lizard men. Packs of wolves set upon us once we left the passage..I was proud of my group..each one worked to a common goal: To rid this area of such creatures whose sole design was to prey on the citizens of the realms. We finally entered Port Llast. Shaydey kept our minds at ease with her melodious singing..and Laelin's quick wit kept us smileing. The roaveing packs of Giant Rats and Wild Boars only managed to slow us down..the scattered corpses a grim testimony to our group's determination. We reached the Inn..and quickly formulated a plan. The only occupant was the InnKeeper who took solace in our presence. He told of sightings of great Purple Worms...Trolls who have taken up a lair nearby. We looked at each other..knowing what must be done. We set off...entering a humble abode..and meeting a female adventurer..who scoffed at us..mocking us to journey onwards to meet our death. As we watched her walk away into the shadows..we turned to the task at hand. We searched the far wall..finding a secret door which lead to a dark corridor. Once again ..Boars and Gaint Rats set upon us..the sounds of battle ringing outward. The element of surprise was, alas, lost. A foul odor assailed our senses...yes..we knew then it was no rumour. We walked to the end of the corridor..finding a door..without hesitation we entered the room. Mere words cannot describe the debauchery we witnessed there. Three great Trolls were milling about what we assumed to be thier meal..and a humongous Purple Worm was heading our way! We spread out..attacking without delay..the sounds of the screaching trolls mixed with the sound of steel cutting flesh. I feared for the safety of my brave adventurers..but that fear was for naught. They prevailed..standing among the carcasses of the Trolls..and the great worm. I looked proudly at my victorious band. Then..it ocurred to me. That worm did not act like a beast of the wild. It had purpose..like..a trained dog..yes..trained! By whom? Trained to guard, mayhaps? It had purpose..as did the trolls..but who..or what ..would use such creatures? It was then that I noticed a small door in the corner of that great room. We moved toward it..ready for the unknown. We barged in..only to find.. MEDUSA!! How could I have been so foolish? Of course! Had I only taken the time to think this out..I could have prepared my adventurers for fighting these base evil monstrosities..whose gaze could turn one to stone. There was no time to think..only time to fight! Finally..it was over. The medusa lay dead at our feet..along with the bugbears who tried to protect them. We gathered our weapons..and headed back to Neverwinter..to give our report to Lord Nasher. Once again evil's attempt at a stronghold in the realms was defeated. My thanks again to Laelin S, Green Sir, Waylane, Green Blad, Raxus, Ning Ti..and Shaydey for assisting me this day..the 23rd of July! Well done!! NWA Kregar <><><><><> <><><><><> Location Hunt, 7/28, NAVAHO SUN was the first to esp me from the location and wins 4 pearls and 1hour online. :) NW Sparkle <><><><><> <><><><><> Congratulations to Dwyvyrn, the winner of the second of this month's GOH only minibooths. Dwyvyrn wins 5 pearls, for showing his dwarven stolidness, and outlasting all other participants in the poison booth! WTG Dwy! And a big thank you to all the participating GOH members! NW Kishpa <><><><><> *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* NEVERWINTER CALENDAR *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Be on the look out for those Mini Booths that seem to pop up out of nowhere! 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 Tour: August 2nd Wednesday 7:00 PM ET - Join NW Sparkle for a tour of the Realm. Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet!;D New Player Tour August 4th, Friday 10:00 PM ET - Join NWA Vorpal for a tour of the Realm. Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet!;D New Player Tour: August 5th Saturday 4:00 PM ET - Join NWA Blythe for a tour of the Realm. Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet!;D <><><><><> <><><><><> Arilyn's Quest (Submitted by HG Renik) "What an Excellent day this hast been" Renik mused, as he made his way down the darkening streets of Longsaddle towards Harper Hall. "Theido and Lady Elayn" Renik smiled as he recalled the beautiful bride, handsome groom and glorious wedding performed by Caldora earlier this day at the Harpell Mansion. Still smiling and humming one of his favorite ballads, the Harper Cleric-Mage was soon inside the aged oak and stone walls of Harper Hall. Hanging his well used +3 Flail and Shield on the nearby weapons rack, Renik made his way thru the Hall to the adjoining Guilded Horseshoe Inn where the proprietor, "Trappy" Snulgers, had a mug of Evermeade already waiting at his favorite corner table. Easing his tired 6' 5" frame into the worn oaken chair, Renik had the first mug downed as Minerva, Trappy's ashen-haired eldest daughter, was bringing a much welcomed refill. "Ahhh, Thankye Minerva" Renik said with a smile, residual foam from the first mug still coating the upper portions of his fiery red beard. "Tis been a most glorious day fer all of Faerun M'lady" he said, as Minerva gently lowered her well-laden serving tray, revealing two large roast Griffon wings, toasted to a golden brown, and several loaves of Trappy's famous Longsaddle Sourdough bread. "The Lady Sharna Tyr" has completed her Quest and should soon return to Harper Hall" Renik said, as he eagerly broke into the hot, sweet bread, barely giving the lovely Minerva a chance to set the plates down on the table. "Oh, how wonderful" Minerva said as her blue-gray eyes seemed to dance with delight "This Hall and the Harpers could well use a goodly portion of her charm an wit". "Aye, indeed" Renik said with a slight smile, the words muffled by the mouthful of Griffon as he hungrily devoured the first of the two large wings on the platter. Washing the Griffon and sourdough down with yet another mug of Evermeade, Renik watched the shapely Minvera as she made her way back to the Inn's kitchen. Glancing up, he saw yet another note, firmly imbedded in the dark oaken center beam of the room. Renik wiped the Griffon grease on his pants as he rose from the table, which drew a scornful look from Tressa, Trappy's plump, but always cheerful wife, as she cleaned a nearby table. Renik walked to the beam and carefully removed the note and dagger, still blushing at Tressa's notice of his woodsman way's, as he returned to his table. Renik could not help but smile as he finished reading Lady Arilyn's note, "Ahh, how nice to have a Moon Elf as a Harper" he mused. Taking a Harpy Quill pen from the inkwell at his table, he began to write his reply: Lady Arilyn, Well met M'lady, indeed. Knowledge of yer courage and skill wit de Moonblade precedes ye. As ye may know, we who Harp require a "Test of yer Mettle" afore we award de Silver Harp pin. Yer quest M'lady Arilyn, is ta bring to this aged Hall the "Lifegiver". Knowledge of this abounds in de Realms, and this ye may seek where ye kin find it, but this Quest is yers, and tis ta be done alone. Harpers must oft travel the realms alone, thus is yer test to be done solo, without the aid of friend or foe. Harpers Luck to ye Lady Arilyn, HG Renik Carefully blowing the ink dry on the damp parchment, Renik rolled the note closed, and deftly tossed the dagger-pinned scroll hilt-deep into the same blade mark she had left the day before. Downing the last of his Evermeade, Renik raised his mug in silent salute to the challenged Moon Elf, Lady Arilyn The Eternity Blade Part 2 (Submitted by Lian Storm) "Who are you?!" my mind screamed at the elegant elf, as I saw myself led down a hallway lit by blue flamed candles. I- she- the woman on his arm, stopped. "Who are you?" she said accusingly. My mind smiled at the thought of not being helpless and my body followed suit. I concentrate on raising my hand and Lianne did so. The elf watched me for a few moments with an amused smile. "Elbereth," he said warmly. Lianne opened her mouth to ask another question, but he put a finger over her lips and smiled. I was pleasantly surprised to learn I could feel his gentle touch, as well. "You are inside Eternity as I told you before, though I doubt you'd remember. Last time you came you were hurt. I-" "You healed me," I finished. I did remember now. Eternity, the sword, was Elbereth's, and he once wielded spells alongside his steel. This was his home now, trapped inside the gem. But one thing remained unclear. "Why am I here?" I willed my body to ask. "You knocked, and I opened the door," he smiled. "You have questions, do you not? You are pure of heart, that is why you can wield Eternity. And," he added, his eyes growing sad and distant, "you remind me of a lady, long ago, who was very special to m-" He stopped suddenly, jerking his head to look toward the door. He hastily took Lianne's hand and kissed it. "You have to go." Before I could so much as breathe, I was falling. The air was rancid when I awoke from my trance. I could see the trolls over the dark pit where my fire had gone out. I shook Divon and drew Eternity from it's scabbard. There were three of the stinking beasts crawling toward us from the south; the Trollmoors. Divon had drawn his daggers, but he lacked the will to fight and stood dumbly behind me. The first troll lunged at us with blinding speed. I managed to jump out of the way, severing it's hand with Eternity. To my horror and disgust the hand got up and began to crawl up my leg. I had heard stories of trolls, but these were the first I'd fought. It was all I could do to hold down my stomach. The troll picked itself up and turned toward Divon. The elf tried to look intimidating, but the beast only showed a grotesque parody of a grin. I lunged at the thing, driving Eternity through it's chest, though the effort stung my leg, where the hand had raked me, and brought me down on one knee. Sparks of pain flashed in my vision as I stood and yanked downward through the troll's torso. Though I could see Divon on the other side of the gash, the beast didn't stop. It's claws shot back, grazing my forehead as I dropped. I rolled toward Divon and stood to face the troll. Despair welled up in me as the other two monsters came up behind the first. Then I heard Elbereth's voice in my head: "Turn the sword around." I could feel the hand burying itself into my leg. The pain and that horrible rancid stench made it hard to think. I grabbed Eternity's blade and pointed it's sapphire pommel at the trolls. The gem turned red and a stream of fire poured from it. The trolls burned like dry sticks as they ran back to the Evermoors. I dropped to the ground to inspect my leg, but when I saw the troll's green brown flesh still alive and burrowing into my knee all I could do was wretch. Divon used his daggers to pry it out and pin it to the ground. He struck sparks over it with my flint till it caught fire. As I pulled myself up I could feel dark eyes in the shadows, dancing with some sort of twisted triumph. The Emerald Brooch: Part Two (Submitted by Sharna Tyr) "Lo Sharna!" a voice called as Sharna Tyr stepped out of the Triboar Inn and on to the hot, dusty streets of Triboar. Turning in the direction of the cry, she spotted the familiar face of an old friend and smiled. "Beanarr!" she cried, rushing into his open arms. "It's been much too long, my dear friend," she said joyfully as they parted, "how goes everything with you?" "I am fit and hearty as ever," the handsome ranger/mage laughed. "And you milady, all is well I trust?" he queried. "Very well." Sharna replied grabbing hold of Beanarr's arm and guiding him towards the inn. "But let us go inside and I will tell you all about it over a flagon of cold evermeade." For the next hour the old friends sat in the corner of the inn as Sharna related all that had transpired since their last meeting, and outlined the details of her current quest. "The Emerald Brooch, eh?" Beanarr uttered. "Aye, you will find it here in Triboar, and you will no doubt look lovely wearing it," he grinned causing Sharna to blush. "But it is not easily found milady." Beanarr paused a moment. "Hmmm . . . Since I know that you would not want me to spoil the gratification of finding it on your own, let me tell thee this much. The brooch lies not in any of the marked entrances on yer map. It lies under Centaur Wood." "Centaur Wood? I have not heard of such a place?" Sharna said, listening intently and absorbing every word her good friend had to say. "Aye, not many have," Beanarr responded. "It is here . . . in Triboar. . . but accessible only through nature's gate, not man's. Go to the Lost Hills and apply thy great skills I know ye to possess as a ranger. Look for that which is out of place and there ye will find the entrance to Centaur Wood. Once inside, seek out the centaur, the rest will become clear." Sharna ordered another round of meade and the couple talked well on into the afternoon. "Tis almost sunset," Sharna said rising from the table and walking over to the window. "I must be off soon if I am to reach the Hills before nightfall. "Aye" said Beanarr rising from the table and taking hold of Sharna's hand, "May I at least escort you as far as the gate to the Lost Hills?" he asked. "I thank thee my friend," Sharna smiled up at Beanarr, "but I best travel on my own from here. My thanks for all you have told me and the blessings of Helm upon thee dear friend," Sharna said as she left the inn. "And to thee," Beanarr replied solemnly after the door had closed as he thought of the dangers that lie ahead of Sharna. - - - - - (Continued) At the edge of the forest a great brown hawk sat perched on the trunk of a fallen tree, its penetrating gaze fixed upon the body of a ranger that lay several feet away, face down and motionless. Raising its majestic head, it emitted a high-pitched screech shattering the stillness of the forest and spread its enormous wings in a gesture of dominance, then glided off the stump to approach the inanimate body. With each footfall, the great hawk would stop and tilt its striking head left, then right to detect the presence of other predators that might also be stalking the prized meal. When it came within three feet of its cache, it stopped and once again extended its magnificent wings and talon before becoming airborne for the final pounce. Just before it landed on the ranger's back, it detected a slight stirring and the flash of metal. "Begone," Sharna Tyr cried raising her long sword at the hawk which squawked and veered off as the blade whisked by, missing it by less than a centimeter. The hawk continued screeching as it ascended high up into the tree tops before landing on a branch to peer down angrily at its intended victim. "Hehe . . .," the young ranger said to herself, "I should know better than to doze off in the wilderness." Sharna arrived in the Lost Hills just before the last rays of the sun faded in the west. Now, as the full moon rose and drained the color from the forest, she found herself in the north west section of the hills. "Nice try," she bowed mockingly, keeping her eyes on the hawk at all times before continuing her search. The young ranger/mage was just about to quit for the night and resume her quest at dawn when she came upon a tree containing several broken branches. "It appears as though something has passed this way," she thought aloud examining the damaged boughs, "and quite recently." Drawing her long sword and uttering a short prayer to Helm and Tyr, then pushed her way into the foliage and whatever dangers awaited on the other side. (To Be Continued) Elf Song (Submitted by Murtano) I am still a young man, But wasted in my years. I know not yet the living, But I have felt the tears. A young man's blood flows through me, Yet I feel an old man's age. And with a young man's hand, I wipe away the days. I see the forest dying, In a thousand burning parts. And I hear the mournful crying, Of a million elvish hearts. Murtano Ravaged (Submitted by Sir Huntr ) Upon a pile of gold she sleeps, her scales gleaming red. She dreams of gold and other things, to place upon her bed. She soon wakes to strectch a leg, sitting atop her hoard. Dragons are a dangerous thing, but more so is one bored. She looks out of her cave to see, a town upon a rock. She then and there decides to go, and leave them living not. Upon her back her wings extend, her eyes gleam in yearning. With sharpened teeth and sharpened claws, she leaves for some burning. Out of her cave she leaves to fly, and leave the people scared. Upon her lips a smile plays, never her glory shared. Flames erupt in the village town, people are torched and burned. Satisfied in her destruction, back toward her home she turns. Upon a pile of gold she sleeps, her scales gleeming red. She dreams of gold and other things, to place upon her bed. She soon wakes up to stretch a leg, sitting atop her hoard ........ Dragons are a dangerous thing, but more so is one bored. KEF GUIDE TO THE INNS OF THE REALM Dutifully Compiled by Scorpio100 July, 1995 Neverwinter: Strider's Tavern (***) -- "The place the pros go," Striders' off-the- beaten track location and its outstanding selection of potables make it the watering hole of choice in downtown Neverwinter. Its wisecracking bartenders, pretty serving wenches and eclectic decor are legendary. Striders is the perfect spot to meet a questing partner, celebrate level or brawl with rival guilds. Each sanctioned guild has its own table, complete with coats of arms, guidons and trophies. On Saturday nights, Strider's can get rock as guilds wear off steam. Satellite TV of the FB World Series and PVP Super Bowl is piped into every room. Specialty drinks include KEF Koolaid, KAAOS Killer, Drac's Tickle and Strider's Spell. Strider greets patrons personally at the door and introducesthem to the beautiful but fierce Warrior Woman who, wouldn't you know, is more interested in fighting krackens than making your acquaintance. 2 plats. Daglow's (**) -- Catering to the traveling trade, Daglow's is a good place to hook up with singles bound for the warehouses, Port Llast and the frosty northland. Ladies' night is Thursday and Daglow's has a tasty selection of brews on tap, wines and spirits. If you've had a hard day, ask Grok the bartender for a round of Fireball Shooters and see if you can still cast afterwards. 1 plat. Mancuso's (*) -- A greasy spoon dripping with sleazy traders from the vaults nearby and penniless feeb victims crying in their last mugs of cheap mead, Mancuso's is one of the realm's most depressing haunts. Check your food carefully for stirges and crawlers before eating. If you look like a newbie, you might end up sharing a bed with a dwarf or a halfling. Ack! Sheets get changed once a month. 1 plat. Matango's (***) -- Add spice to your life by stopping at Matango's for south of the border fare and toe-tapping Latin rhythms. Check out the pyro chili, refried remorhaz, bullette taco and the succulent toasted lizard tail. Don't leave without a pitcher of White Dragon margaritas. Evenings feature Fernando and his Fire Giants and salsa dancing in the lounge. 1 plat. Red Mage (**) -- Above average for dontown NW inns, the Red Mage boasts a family atmosphere with bug-free beds, high chairs for halflings, and a kiddie pool for the kobold set. It's also a wholesome place to meet singles on their way south. If you've just rerolled, they give frequent die-er points you can cash in later for trips to the islands. Try the all- you-can-eat breakfasts with boar bacon, griffon eggs, mammy's milk and stirge honey. Yum. 1 plat. Wharves: Caladirya's (**) -- There's no need to stop here unless you're a newbie doing the wharves or you enjoy drinking with the loutish Royal Guards who frequent the place. They can be found holding up the bar night and day. Nasher should stop in and check out his finest when they get a snootful. He'd court martial the lot of them. Food's passable and it's safe enough. A boring evening can be had for 1 plat. Breeno's (**) -- Breeno boasts the best beds in Neverwinter, but he doesn't tell you that he serves some of its worst food. Stick to the specials and wash it down with beer or mead. The beds aren't bad, especially if you need to recover from the cloud giants or owlbears in Floodblest. Breeno's survives on the NW to NS trade and it's better than Caladirya's, but not much. 1 plat. Windycliffs: The Inn at Windycliffs(***) -- This Tudor-style landmark atop the famous cliffs is a welcome sight after journeying through umber hulks, pyro snakes and boars. Well-traveled gateway to nearby drac, cloud giant and ogre hunting grounds as well as last stop for adventuresome travellers bound for LLast and Luskan. Nice collection of pyro snake skins, stuffed umber hulk heads and purple worms from LLast. Pretty good boar BBQ, mino steaks, frogs legs and purple worm pasta. Try their fireballed umber kabobs if you've never tasted them. Happy hour served daily before drac hunts, 1700-1800 hrs. Currently playing in the lounge is Larry and his Lizardmen. 2 plats. Port LLast: Griffon Inn (***) -- The nautical decor (hanging nets, porthole windows, parrotts and mounted sailfish) lets the hungry traveler know this is the place to go in for seafood. Fireballed shrimp and lobster-on-a-bo stick are house specialties. You'll build up an appetite after worm hunting or medusa bashing that only the Griffon can satisfy. For a nightcap try the Salty Skelly or the Pirate's Pearl. 2 plats. Luskan: Prince's Palace (****) -- Always a welcome sight in the freezing northland, the Prince's Palace keeps a fire roaring night and day. After bashing your way north through yetis, mammys, spiders, hippos and umber hulks, PP's is worth staying for a spell. Specialties of the house include hot toddies, buttered rum, roast yeti, hippo steaks, umber sausage, griffon wings and utyagh calimari. Freyda and Katya are two of the nicest wenches in the realm and they'll show you a hot time on the frostiest of evenings. The Northern Lights keep the lounge hopping at night and they give holder dance lessors to those bound for the caverns. Reservations are a good idea during ice carnival. 2 plats. Islands: Island Inn (****) -- A vacationer's paradise and the friendliest place on the islands. Specialties include rum drinks with little umbrellas, fresh seafood, spit-roasted ogre and midnight luaus on the beach. If you're an elf or half-elf, bring +2 or stronger suntan lotion. Don't forget your clubs and maces; there's a championship 18 hole dungeon nearby (It's against course rules to cast dimension door on your ball). Ask Lanai the hostess for directions to the topless beach but don't tell the krackens! A fashionable shop right in the inn sells beach wear, halfling size on up. Do the holder dance all night to the island rhythms of Nine Inch Spines and the Manticores. For the brave, there are excursions to the North Island and west to the Kracken Complex. Reservations necessary for mid-winter vacations. 2 plats a night but it takes a ticket, a password and 1,000 plats to get there. Southwall: Adventurer's Paradise (**) -- If this is a paradise, you'd better give up adventuring. Southwall's inn serves newbies and the occasional Willo drac victim wandering north from Vilnask. It'll do in a pinch and the Mino burgers aren't half bad with ketchup and kobold fries. If you have to stay overnight, get a room on the east side, away from the highway noise. 2 plats. Vilnask: Vilnask Inn (**) -- Good place to rendezvous with caravans headed to Lost Hills, banshee bashers, or drac hunters bound for Willo's or Crossergate. Specialties include wolfburgers, kobold fries, frosty pup sherbet and cryo soup. Be sure to visit the common room paneled completely with heart of kampflut wood and the unique collection of antique daggers of striking. Nice selection of meads and ales. 2 plats. Crossergate: Crossergate Inn (***) -- The CI is a stylish stopping off place for drac hunters and caravans to Triboar. Proximity to herds of boars accounts for the inn's excellent BBQ, best in the realm. Try the bullette sausage and troll tongue too. Beds are covered with beautiful white ice pup furs. Nearby stores and drac hunts make it one of most fashionable spots in NW and one should dress well for dinner (polished armor, jewels and dry cleaned cloaks). Excellent cellar of vintage wines and brandies, and home of the Litning Bolt Shooter. They do a nice job catering drac hunts and Lost Hills picnics. Before heading east, mem your PVP spells and slip into something camouflaged. 2 plats. Floodblest: Rankled Boar Inn (***) -- An historic inn located in the heart of cloud giant country, the Boar attracts a sporting crowd of CG bashers, well wanderers and travelers bound for Nightsedge and points east. Travelers look forward to the Boar's good food and excellent company. Specialities include roast boar, owlbear eggs, pickled pyro and lizard sushi. Nice collection of CG clubs in the trophy room. Biggest drawback is the owlie bear furs used on the beds. A couple of Boar's Breath cocktails before retiring will help you forget all about the smell. 1 plat. Nightsedge: Unnamed Inn (*) -- If it weren't the only inn within miles, this disgrace of a place would have gone out of business years ago. It's almost impossible to find, has no sign or name, and the door is always locked. It's overpriced, under-serviced, dirty and odiferous. The innkeeper can be found cowering in his wine cellar -- with good reason, for his wines are among the foulest in the realm. The brave adventurer is tempted to take his chances on camping out, risking the frisky ogres and lizards of the area. 5 plats and not worth a copper. Longsaddle: The Gilded Horseshoe Inn -- (***) A restful sanctuary after the wilds of the NW woods or the terrors of Berun, the Gilded Horseshoe is the perfect NW inn. Friendly. Cozy. And many many miles from the nearest pitiful newbie begging for "just a little exp" or "haven't you got just one +1 weapon you can spare pleez pleeeeez pleeeeeeeeeez." Instead, there's only the lonely cries of wyverns and shambling mounds in the night and the rusty rattle of plate mailed adventurers by day. Specialties of the house include wyvern wings, drider web soup, red dragon gumbo and fricasseed ogre. If you're feeling frisky after a day in the woods or caverns, ask Rusty the bartender for the local specialty, Black Dragon Brew. The Gilded Horseshoe does a nice job on special events, such as Theido and Lady Elayne's recent nuptials. 2 plats. Berun: The Final Resting Place (*) -- Word is that party of KAAOS creeps recently stayed here and, well, we all know that they're the worst tippers and rudest guests in the realm. They trashed the place and turned the staff into complete monsters and beasts. If you're weak, cast invis, shield or mirror before entering because you'll be met at the door by trolls and basilisks. Don't complain to the management, they're even ruder than the help. You'll be lucky to escape with your life. Shameful. Triboar: Triboar Inn and Public House (****) -- This famous inn is the site of parties to celebrate the annual PVP Super Bowl and the FB World Series held in the nearby arena. Any time of year you're likely to rub elbows over a bumper of +3 ale with the realm's celebrity champions whose autographed photos and weapons adorn every inch of the inn's barroom walls. Most stars sell autographs for only a plat. Many fans spend more time in the inn than the arena! Its gallery of public rooms provide plenty of space to throw your personal max out party, guild bash or discuss strategy for your cube or ticket quest. Specialties include remorhaz wings, basilisk burgers, wolfdogs, troll salad and fried griffon. Ask Nick the bartender for a Fearsome Feeb. It will make you forget more than your spells. 2 plats. Westbridge: Happy Halfling (**) -- Sweet Grandma Lifegiver runs the Halfling like her own house, with home cooking and wolf down comforters on the beds. It's a good headquarters for your visit to Westbridge, conveniently located near the center of town. Grandma makes great hulkloaf, griffon pot pie, gorgon head soup, hippoburgers and cryo salad. She can also mix up a stiff libation. One of her Fire Elementals will warm up your evening. At 4 plats, it's a bit overpriced. Red Larch: Swinging Sword (***) -- The realm's newest hot spot for swingers, the Swinging Sword features heart-shaped hot tubs, cone of cold champagne, shocking grasp massages and unlimited friends spells. It's a honeymoon paradise for adventurers who have maxxed their characters and are ready to have a final fling before settling into married life in the community of your choice. 4 plats. The Three Little Rivvils (Submitted by Mournbane) Once upon a time there were three rivvils. There was Palamu rivvil, there was Rangmu rivvil, and there was Clam rivvil. They were brothers. They were happy. They got awful arrogant...and here is their story. Now it happened that these three rivvil wanted to settle down (as rivvil do) in little houses near to one another. And so it was that they each set about building their happy homes. Palamu rivvil liked people a lot, so he built a little temple-house on the outskirts of a rivvil village. Unfortunately for Palamu, he gave all his money away, to his church and to the poor, so he had to build his house from straw. But he was happy. Rangmu rivvil liked animals a lot, so he built a little house in the forest. Rangmu decided to use wood, but only from trees that had died of natural causes. After much searching in the forest, he still needed one more tree. So, in his frustration, he cut one down. No one was looking...and he would plant two tomorrow. Clam rivvil liked to meditate and look at the stars a lot, so he decided to build his house in the hills. He made his home a tower, so he could see far away. He also liked to look down on people. He made his tower from stone, because he wanted to show off. The three rivvils were very happy...for a while.... Now it happened that a drow warrior had been given a bachelor party by his abbils. And these friends thought it would be fun to play a joke on their unsuspecting comrade. So, when the groom-to-be was distracted, they spiked his drink with sleep poison, and waited for him to drink it. He did. Soon he was fast asleep. His friends grabbed his sleeping body and dimension-doored the way to the surface. They stopped only for a brief memorizing here and there, thinking that if their friend woke up, they would d-door out and let him walk home (they knew he didn't have the spell himself since he had asked for a scroll as a gift). But he slept on, soundly. At the surface, he was still sleeping, and the abbils began to worry that they had given him too much poison. "Nah," one said, "He just can't hold his toxins. Whatta lightweight!" "Aye," said another, "we should give his sorry backside to the rivvils!" The nineteen males looked upon one another's faces. As one, they grinned. As one, they nodded. Then they proceeded to take him to the rivvil village. But as they got near the village, their abbil started waking up. So they did not enter the village, instead they left him: in the middle of the night, in a flowerbed, on the side of a small, straw, house. "Iblith! my head...what was in that drink abbils?" said the lone male when he awoke. He sniffed, phew! flowers!?! Only then did he realize what his abbils had done. He laughed. Those guys... The drow looked at the straw house, went to the door, and knocked. Stirred from sleep inside the house, Palamu said, "Who is it? What do you want?" The warrior answered, "Pardon me rivvil, please let me in, I need your facilities to relieve myself in." Using bushes was so...dwarven. He just couldn't stoop that low. Palamu, recognizing the drow word for human, said, "Go away drow! I'll not let you in! Not by the beard that hangs from Tyr's chin!" The warrior said, "But you have my word, I just need to go. I'll be in and be gone and no one will know." And Palamu said, "The word of a dark elf! Ha! What a laugh. Now get out of here or I'll cut you in half!" Then the warrior drow became angry. He said, "Very well rivvil! You've pushed me too far. So stay in your darn house and I'll watch you char!" With those words, the drow released a fireball upon the straw house, which was not very fireproof. Soon, both it and Palamu were ashes. The drow then fled to the nearby forest, hoping to find a secluded enough spot so he could do his business without offending the Queen of Spiders. He didn't think she'd have him dridered just for a whizz...but you never know with her. She's like that. Just as he was about to give up hope, he spied a dim light through the trees. He decided to try again.... Going up to the door of the little wood cabin, he knocked upon it. "Be not alarmed, O abbil inside. May I stop in quickly, before onward I stride?" And Rangmu, whose house this was, answered, "I know the word 'abbil', but your friend I am not. Be off with you! You dark-elven sot!" The drow then said, "I just want some privacy, a moment's I ask. Why must you insult so and take me to task?" Rangmu responded, "To you and your kind I've nothing to say. Get out of my forest and be on your way!" And the drow said, "Your forest? YOUR FOREST? Your deathbed you mean! A few hours hence and just black will be seen!" As before, the drow launched a fireball at the tiny dwelling. Unlike before, he threw another into the forest for good measure. As the flames consumed the forest, he ran toward the hills. Great, he thought. This is about as exposed as it gets: barren rock and earth, no proper facilities of carefully molded stones.... He wondered if his eyes were yellow yet. He must remember to have less ale next time. Then he saw a small, stone tower. It was just up the hillside from him. He smiled. Wizards understand the need for privacy. Approaching the tower, he was about to knock on the door when he saw a figure looking down on him from the roof. The drow called out, "Vendui' fellow magi. May I come in?" And the wizard said, "Not by the dimples that are on Mystra's...uh...chin!" He coughed, then said, "I have seen fires run rampant this night. First down in the village, now the forest burns bright." And the drow muttered, "With one after the other, these rivvils I'm cursed, and this fool in his tower is most likely the worst." With that, the drow warrior took some of his manticore spines from his backpack and held them in his hand. The dark elf said, "I would have asked, almost pleaded, to just come inside. I crave relief so, I'd have swallowed my pride. But all of you rivvils, so full of yourselves, can't talk to us drow like you do other elves." And Clam on the tower said, "You claim to ask. What you do is demand! You and your kind from under the land. Go down to your tunnels and stay there for good! There's no place for you here, under sun and in wood." Clam then decided to put a globe of protection around himself, just in case. He started to cast it. The dark elf threw his six spines saying, "You treacherous rivvil! These spines in my hand, will end your spellcasting should one of them land." The spines flew upward. All of them missed. The globe shimmered into being. Clam said, "No fire for me, and no lightning too. Pity I can't say the same thing for you." He started casting again. He was happy. The drow had started casting too, just before Clam had. He finished his cast and said, "You rivvils find strange things in which to have mirth. Laugh this one off then, whatever it's worth." Up on the tower, Clam stopped. His features went slack and his eyes glazed. He drooled a lot. The drow made sure he wasn't under him, as Clam had been leaning forward to cast his spell... THUD! The warrior said, "I asked you rivvil, time and again, but your arrogance forced me to feeb your brain in." Looking through the cleric-mages' stuff, the drow found the key to the tower's door. Using it almost recklessly, he threw the door wide and raced for relief.... When he entered the tunnels leading to the underdark a little while later, his abbils, who had waited for him, handed him a dimension door scroll. He grinned. They grinned back. Those guys.... After a read magic spell, he scribed his prize into his spellbook. Then everybody memmed, and started dooring home. As for Palamu, Rangmu, and Clam...they all stayed happily dead ever after. THE END /\/\ournbane Sargtlin Faern Bregan D'Aerth The Quest for the Amulet, Part I (Submitted by OSIR1S) After spending several weeks alone at their cottage, Taarla and Osiris decided they would travel to Neverwinter. They had been away from the bustling city far too long and Osiris had several matters to attend to and Taarla wished to purchase supplies for the cottage and her garden. They both also wanted to hear of the latest happenings of their friends that still resided in the city. While Osiris was busy saddling the horses they would require for the long journey, Taarla busied herself packing. Dragonslayer sat at the foot of the bed while his mistress rushed around the room pulling things from drawers and closets. Deciding he wasn't going to be much help in preparing for the journey, he stretched out full-length across the bed and closed his eyes for a quick catnap. As Taarla finished putting the last of the items they would be taking with them into the packs, she heard a soft peck at the window. Turning, she saw it was Melody, and she rushed to open the window for the tiny, blue fairy. With a flurry of gossamer wings, Melody flew into the room and perched herself atop one of the bedposts. With her wee voice she said, "Fair Lady, where are you going?" Taarla answered, "Osiris and I wish to travel to Neverwinter, wee one." Melody's features grew solemn and she folded her arms across her tiny chest and continued, "Are you coming back soon... or has the Fair Lady decided to return to city life?" Taarla laughed, then stopped herself as she saw that Melody was quite serious. "We shall return very soon, wee one... this is our home now." Melody's face brightened and she fluttered around the room, leaving a trail of glitter behind her. She flew back to Taarla and settled herself on her shoulder and whispered into her ear, "Can I come with you, Fair Lady?" Taarla whispered back, "Dearest little fairy, the streets of Neverwinter are no place for such a wee one as you... I do not think you would be safe." Melody sighed, "But Fair Lady... who shall keep the nightmares away?" Taarla shook her head, "I do not know, but I would not endanger you by allowing you to travel to Neverwinter, Melody." Your place is here within the gardens. Do not worry about my nightmares. Osiris will be with me." Melody sat in silence for a few moments, her head bowed deep in thought. She had come to care a great deal for Lady Taarla and she knew her nightmares were intensely frightening. Melody flew off of Taarla's shoulder and hovered in front of her. "I shall worry for you, Fair Lady, and even though you are not here, I shall play for you each and every night." Taarla's eyes shone with tears and in a hushed voice she said, "Thank you, Melody." With that, the graceful fairy blew a kiss to Taarla and flew out the window in the direction of the gardens. While Taarla stood watching Melody flying towards the garden, Osiris walked into the bedroom. "Ready, Love?" he asked her. Turning towards him, she answered, "Yes, I'm ready, Love." Osiris walked to the bed and scratched Dragonslayer's ears. "Come on, Dragonslayer... it's time to go." Dragonslayer stretched and yawned, then leaped off of the bed and sauntered out of the bedroom. Osiris and Taarla picked up their packs and followed him to the two horses that were waiting beneath a tree just outside the front entrance. Dragonslayer was already sitting in the saddle when Taarla and Osiris stepped outside, and laughing, Osiris said, "Looks like Dragonslayer wants to ride for a change." Taarla joined in his laughter and said, "Well, I'm glad he's riding with you and not me." Osiris looked at his wife, "And what's that supposed to mean?" Taarla winked at her husband and said, "You'll see, Love." Osiris looked at Taarla and then at Dragonslayer. Apparently they knew something he did not. Taarla mounted her white mare and beckoned for Osiris to hurry up. Osiris climbed into the saddle of his dapple-grey stallion and then the three of them were headed towards Neverwinter. The journey through the woods surrounding their home was uneventful as Taarla followed Osiris through the trees. The sun filtered through the leaves and bathed them in a green light. The birds twittered and chipmunks raced across their path as they traveled. Dragonslayer remained perched in front of Osiris looking like the captain of a ship. Upon reaching the edge of the woods, they came to a river. There was no bridge to aid their crossing. They would have to take the horses through the rushing waters to reach the other side and continue towards Neverwinter. Dragonslayer became agitated at the thought of crossing the river on horseback and began meowing in protest. Taarla began to giggle as Osiris tried to calm the irritated cat. "Come on, Dragonslayer, it's nothing for you to fret about," Osiris said. As Osiris urged his horse forward into the water, Dragonslayer howled and then leaped onto Osiris' shoulder, digging his claws into his cloak. Taarla laughed at the sight of her pet hanging on for dear life wrapped around Osiris' head. Osiris laughed himself and said, "So, Love, is this what you were talking about?" Taarla replied, "Whatever do you mean, Love?" Dragonslayer continued to howl and even hissed a few times before they finally reached the opposite bank of the river. Once Osiris and Taarla were safely across, Dragonslayer leaped from Osiris' shoulder and darted into the woods ahead of them. Osiris roared with laughter. "Methinks our little furry friend does not like the water, Love." "Apparently not," Taarla giggled in response. Urging their horses forward, they traveled through a small grove of trees and then came to a wide open meadow. Dragonslayer was far ahead of them. He appeared to be chasing an elusive rabbit or a field mouse through the tall grasses. Taarla and Osiris rode side by side through the meadow, talking of their future plans for the cottage and the things they would do once they arrived in Neverwinter. The sun shone brightly overhead and with any luck they would reach Neverwinter shortly after nightfall. Many miles later, the tired couple crossed through the gates into Neverwinter. Dragonslayer was sound asleep in Taarla's pack and did not even wake at the sounds of a group of rowdy dwarves carousing in front of Mancuso's Inn. They headed in the direction of the stables to take care of their horses before they went in search of an inn for themselves. As they rode into the stableyard, a young lad came running out to greet them. "Evenin', milord, milady... Would ya be needin' a place for these find animals to stay?" Osiris dismounted and flipped a silver coin to the slightly disheveled young lad and said, "Aye, young one, we have need of your services. I trust you will take good care of my horses." "Yes, milord, I shall take the utmost care with your fine animals." Osiris walked to Taarla's white mare as she handed him the backpack containing the still sleeping Dragonslayer. After dismounting, she led her mare into the stables behind the lad as he led Osiris' steed ahead of her. Taarla fastened the reins to a ring set into the wall for just such purposes and the lad turned to her and bowing deeply said, "Thank you, milady." Taarla smiled and said, "You're quite welcome," and turned to join Osiris. "Well, Love," Osiris began, "shall we see what's changed at the Red Mage Inn since we saw it last?" "That sounds fine, Osi," Taarla responded, and placing her arm in his, the two began walking through the dimly lit streets of Neverwinter towards the Red Mage Inn. As Taarla and Osiris walked through the front door of the inn, they were hailed almost immediately by Jack Raven who was sitting at his usual table drinking a concoction known throughout the realms as Frenzy, and from the looks of him, he was quite intoxicated. Osiris greeted their long-time friend, "Ello, Jack!" and Taarla smiled and said, "Hiyas, Jack! How are you?" Jack stood up, a bit shakily, and said, "It's been awhile since I've seen you two lovebirds. Join me for a bit," and with that he pulled two chairs to the table and gestured for Taarla and Osiris to sit down. "I'll be right with you, Jack. Let me see if the innkeeper of this fine establishment has a room for me and my lady for the night." Osiris went in search of the innkeeper and Taarla sat down at the table with Jack. Jack set a glass in front of Taarla and poured her a glass of wine and said, "That scallywag been treatin' ya right, Taarla?" Taarla smiled at Jack and replied, "I couldn't be happier, my friend." Jack sat back down opposite Taarla and said, "I knew that, lass... even with a coupla frenzies in me, I can see the sparkle in your eyes." Taarla blushed a bright shade of pink and laughed at the knowing look on Jack's face. Osiris joined them then and Jack pushed the bottle of Frenzy towards him. "Drink up, my friend. It's been awhile since we last shared a bit of the ol' Frenzy." "Aye, that it has," Osiris said. The threesome sat long into the night catching up on the goings-on until Taarla became so tired she nearly dozed off at the table. Osiris stood up, "Well, Jack, I think we better call it a night before Taarla winds up sleeping at the table." Jack replied, "Will you be in Neverwinter for a few days?" Taarla, stifling a yawn, said sleepily, "Aye, Jack, we planned on staying for a bit." "Perhaps I'll see you two again before you return home then," Jack said. Saying their goodnights, Osiris and Taarla climbed the stairs to their room. Dragonslayer looked at them sleepily from the foot of the bed as they entered the room. After removing her dusty traveling clothes, Taarla donned a soft, white shirt of Osiris' and climbed into bed. She was fast asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow and Osiris just smiled at her. Dragonslayer padded softly across the bed and curled up next to her and was soon sleeping once again. As Osiris was preparing to get into bed himself, he heard a soft pecking at the door. Opening the door, he saw Jack standing in the hallway. "Jack, what is it, my friend?" he asked. Jack answered in a hushed voice, "Is Taarla sleeping?" Osiris looked puzzled, "Why, yes she is, Jack, why do you ask?" "Forgive me, Osi, but I need to speak to you. It is something that may upset the lady and I do not wish to frighten her." Osiris turned and looked at Taarla and grabbing his cloak from a nearby chair, he stepped out into the hallway and joined Jack. "Come on, Jack, we'll go back downstairs and then you can tell me what this is all about." The two men headed back down the stairs and seated themselves at a table in a dark corner of the inn. His voice lowered, Jack began, "Osiris, do you remember Magicstarx? He was a very close friend of Taarla's at one time." Osiris nodded and said, "Yes, I remember, though I did not know him very well myself." Jack continued, "He has seemingly disappeared into thin air, without a trace and the talk among the city is he was searching for Taarla. Seems he had a message of some sort for her." Osiris asked, "What sort of message? From my understanding, Magicstarx and Taarla did not part on the best of terms. She has told me that they have not spoken in months." "I do not know the nature of the message, my friend, but I know it was a message for Taarla and while he was searching for her, he disappeared. Sir Sentra was with him and the young fellow is baffled for Magicstarx vanished without a trace." Osiris pondered this information for several minutes. He trusted Jack, and he knew that anything that went on in Neverwinter, Jack Raven knew about it. "Jack, do you think Taarla is in danger... do you believe the message had anything to do with Anubiss?" Jack sighed and responded, "I do not know, Osi. It's very disturbing to me, no matter what the message contained. Magicstarx is a very skilled and knowledgeable person. For him to just vanish like that is very unsettling." Sighing, Osiris said, "Though Taarla and Magicstarx did not part on the best of terms, she will be grieved to hear this news. I do not know how I will keep it from her, but I shall for the time being try to keep this silent." "I shall try to find out anything else of importance to tell you," Jack continued, "and be careful of Taarla, she may indeed be in danger." "I am always watchful when it comes to her, Jack. I assure you I will let no harm come to my lady." With that, the two men rose from the table, Osiris returning upstairs to his room, and Jack Raven stepping out into the darkened streets of Neverwinter. Opening her eyes to a sun-filled room, Taarla felt well rested and was surprised she had slept through the night without the recurring nightmares. For a moment her thoughts turned to Melody and she wondered what the little blue fairy was doing. Osiris rolled over and looked at her, "Sleep well, Love?" he asked her. Taarla kissed him warmly and replied, "I slept wonderfully, Osi." The couple lay there for many minutes staring into each other's eyes and relishing in the warmth of the love they each found there. Osiris took Taarla in his arms and kissed her passionately and there they stayed for the rest of the morning, making love and whispering tenderly to each other. It was well past the hour of noon when Osiris and Taarla came down the steps into the common room of the inn. Many people were gathered at tables around the room. A roar of laughter came from a corner table of dwarves engaging in a midday round of dwarven ale, and one burly fellow overturned his chair and his legs kicked against the air as he tried to regain his sitting position. The laughter grew even louder and taking Taarla by the hand, Osiris led them out into the sunshine of the day. Osiris told Taarla he wished to speak to a few guild members and that she was free to do as she wished while he was gone. "I'll be back at the inn in a couple of hours, Love" he said after kissing her warmly on the lips. "I shall be here as well, Osi," she answered with a smile. Osiris soon disappeared into the streets of travelers and Taarla started walking towards the square in the middle of town. Dragonslayer appeared at her heels and she greeted him with a cheerful, "Mornin', lil' one... err afternoon I should say." He meowed at her and together they walked towards Neverwinter Square. The square was always busy with people discussing trade and local news, but mostly it was the center of all of the gossip in the city. Taarla looked around her to see if there was anyone there that she knew. From across the square she could see a familiar-looking young man dressed in the green and brown garb of a ranger. Walking towards him, she recognized him as her friend Sir Sentra and as she drew closer to him, he looked up and saw her approaching. Bowing, he greeted her, "Good afternoon, milady." With a smile and a curtsy, Taarla returned his greeting, "Afternoon, sir. Fare thee well?" Sir Sentra's features took on a grave expression. "Nay, milady, there has been some trouble. Have you not heard?" Shaking her head, Taarla said, "No, I have just arrived in the city. What is wrong, Sir. Please tell me what trouble has occurred." Sir Sentra seemed torn between telling her and keeping the news he had to himself, but he knew he had to tell her. Taarla placed a hand on a well-worn sleeve and asked again, "What is it? Perhaps I can help you." Sir Sentra took a deep breath and began to recount the story of Magicstarx's disappearance to her. At the first mention of her friend's name, Taarla's attention remained fixed on Sir Sentra and the telling of his tale. And the tale went something like this... "Magic and I were sitting in Daglow's Inn one evening after returning from the Spring Festival in Neverwinter. We were minding our own business and having a few drinks when Magicstarx was approached by a dark figure. He wore a cloak of purest black, and his face was hidden by the hood which was pulled closely around his face. Magicstarx spoke to the figure, but I was unable to hear the words which were spoken. After just a few moments, the cloaked figure turned and left the inn. Magic sat for a few minutes, apparently pondering what the stranger had told him. Then, he turned to me and told me to wait in the inn for him, that he would return shortly. Well, having nothing better to do, I waited and soon Magic returned. When Magicstarx came back into the inn, he did not sit down, instead he told me that we had to leave on an urgent mission. He told me we had to find you, Taarla, and deliver a message. Word of your marriage to Osiris had gotten around, but no one was quite sure of where you had taken up residence. Magic began asking around and found out that you were living far in the Southwestern Woods, but he was unable to get an exact location. So, that very night, we set off in search of you. Magic was adamant that we only travel at night under the cover of darkness, but he was evasive when I asked him any questions. Since he had asked me to go with him, I left well enough alone. Hour after hour we walked, and just as it was beginning to get light, Magic chose a spot beneath a wayward pine to make camp. We slept through the day and awoke at dusk and began traveling once again. We were deep in the forest by that time and it was dense with trees and brush. I was no more than five feet behind him when suddenly he just vanished. I stopped, thinking he may have just stepped off the path or taken a quick turn, but the longer I stood in the silence of the forest, the more sure I was that something had happened to Magic. I searched the area until dawn and after, but I could not find a single trace of him. His tracks ended just a few feet ahead of mine. It was as if he had been lifted into the air from where he stood. I have gone there many times since the disappearance, searching for any sign of him, but I have been unsuccessful in my efforts. It is a mystery, milady... I know not what else to do." "Sir, do you have any idea what was contained in the message?" Taarla questioned Sir Sentra. "Nay, milady... Magic would not speak of it to me... he only said it was urgent that we reach you and deliver it into your hands." Taarla thought for a few minutes about all that Sir Sentra had just told her. She was puzzled that Magicstarx would seek her out for he had not even spoken to her in months. She did not know the reason for his silence, and she still wondered about it even after all the time that had passed. Perhaps he had reasons that he could not tell her. "Milady, what are you thinking?" Sir Sentra asked Taarla. She looked at her friend, her face a mask of concern. "Are you certain you have told me everything, Sir... every last detail?" "Aye, milady, I have," he answered her. "He must be found, Sir. How I do not know yet, but I will think of some way to find Magicstarx and help him if I can. He had a reason to come searching for me, and I feel I must know what that reason is. I must go now, my friend, but I will come in search of you later. Will you still be in the city this evening?" "Aye, milady, I will. I will be staying at Daglow's Inn if you need to find me." "Very well then, I bid you good day, Sir." Bowing, Sir Sentra bid her a good day as well and watched his friend Taarla walk slowly through Neverwinter Square, her eyes cast downward as she began thinking of what she would do. ********* to be continued ******** History of a Seeker Part 2 - Raiders (Submitted by Whiiplash) The raiders were merciless killers, chopping down fleeing villagers with huge poleaxes and crushing war hammers. They rode massive, reptilian mounts, a half dozen feet tall and with a maw full of teeth -- easily ripping . These mounts, moving with grace surprising for their size, tore through fleeing villagers, talons clawing and jaws snapping. The raiders atop these mounts weilded axe and hammer two-handed, screaming out war-cries and cutting down villagers mercilessly. The raiders rode armorless, except for a strange, ritualistic helm atop their heads. Massive horns sprouted from the sides of the strange helm, and the mouthpeice resmebled a fanged jaw. The raiders' eyes glowed red as they urged their mounts on, tearing apart victims. And all Whiiplash could do was watch. Limbs aching and head ripped by pain, he struggled to stand upright. He had lost his shortsword somewhere in the confusion surrounding his jump. As luck would have it he jumped into the path of another group of walking raiders, and thus committed himself to a long flight through alleyways and terror stricken streets. And now....now he hid himself in a small alcove beside a building, struggling to clear his head. He was suddenly forced to come to his senses much faster as shouts rang out down the street. Leather boots pounding on the cobblestones, Whiiplash stumbled and ran toward the edge of the city where his family lived. His family. Tears suddenly blurred his vision as he thought of his family butchered by half naked raiders. "Noooo!" He screamed to himself, pain searing his muscles. His mind jumbled, he reached the street his family lived on. There was no chance he would make it there .... even .... even if they weren't already dead. Forcing his tears back, he ran down the street, pushing through crowds that fled from pursuing raiders. The street was littered with corpses. No.....my family....NO! Whiiplash wasn't sure if he had screamed or not, but he didn't care. His home was burned to the ground. All of the houses were. Raiders crowded the streets now, and people were mostly dead in the street. Suddenly he was nearly alone. Most of the raiders had disappeared, and now he lay slumped in the street, surrounded by lifeless bodies. Somewhere across the city an explosion shook the ground. Winged beasts flapped overhead, and it seemed as if the war was occuring in just a single small spot on the other side of the city. Struggling to his feet, Whiiplash wondered how long he had lain, slumped in the street. It did not matter..... His family....Somewhere across the city an explosion shook the ground. Winged beasts flapped overhead, and it seemed as if the war was occuring in just a single small spot on the other side of the city. Something moved down the street. A raider. No, it wore armor. Moving slowly toward the person, he called out. "H-Hello?" The person swung around and pressed a finger to his lips.... Or, her. She grabbed him by the arm and pushed him into an alley. "Quiet! They'll here you. Gods, they haven't left! Sum hospitality -- this is what I get when I come to your fair city. Jeez...." "What are you...doing here? W-why not leave?" "Think hard. Really hard." After a long pause she explained. "They're guarding the gates, dolt! A few escaped but it took nearly two-score fighters to do so. I'm afraid we're stuck here... At least till the guards leave.... Or maybe when the watch switches...." She looked thoughtful. "Hmm.... maybe I can get mysel...err....us out. Ever used a sword?" Hearing this Whiiplash's eyes lit up. "Yeah.... I know a little bit of magic, too!" "Oh great, that's peachy. Look, if we're gonna get out of here alive we need to find sumore people. Either that or think of a good plan...." She looked thoughtful again. "Maybe a diversion..." "Someone's coming!" I whispered to the female warrior, who stood pondering their predicament. "Shhhh!" The raiders took a long time in passing, but eventually they did, oblivious to the two figures huddled in the corner thinking up a plan. Suddenly the whole gate was encompassed by a huge explosion, crushing walls and throwing debris into the air. Raiders assigned to the gate threw themselves to the ground. Raiders ran screaming from the massive explosion, screaming and waving their weapons. Nearby, Whiiplash struggled to maintain the illusion. Beside him, longsword drawn, the female warrior glanced this way and that for raiders. "Don't go too far..." "I...I can't h-hold it any longer!" Whiiplash said through clenched teeth. His head ached even worse from the strain of spell-casting, and he thought it would explode should he keep the illusion going. "Let it go, we can make it....." Calming his mind, Whiiplash let the illusion disappear. Suddenly the explosion disappeared, the walls reformed, and a few guards disappeared. The rest still lay dazed on the ground. "C'mon!" The warrior whispered, running toward the gate and past guards, dragging Whiiplash behind. Outside the city, deep in the forest, the warrior stopped. Whiiplash, struggling for breath and limbs aching from exhaustion, collapsed a couple feet away. "I have unfinished business to attend to.... You gonna be ok?" "Yeh (pant, pant) yes..." Swallowing, he tried to catch his breath. "Ok, may your path bring honor ansd glory to your name..." Then, suddenly, she was gone. Whiiplash slept there till after dawn, finally getting to his feet and stretching. His dreams had been haunted, and he got up thinking he was in his warm, cosy house. As he opened his eyes, he realized differently. Everything came back to him in a rush, and he remembered the grim reality that the life he knew was at an end. Falling to his knees, he cried for what seemed like eternity. The Journal of a Kender Mage (Submitted by Kendermage) I am Herald Sharptounge, the Kender Mage. It is a widely known fact that kender can not use magic, but this is wrong for I can. I will tell you all how it came to be that I can use magic. It was my 21st birthday when I ventured out on my own. I had never seen much of the world, when I came across the town of Palanthas. This town was widely know for its great mages. I had just entered the town when I was attacked by a couple of big hefty fighter like guys. They had claimed that I stole some sort of diamond. I never STEAL anything. They searched through my belongings throwing my "Junk" as they called it to the ground and taking my collection of shiny gems. (And they said I stole from them!) They left me gagged and bound in a dark alley where I was not discovered until the following day. It was another kender, of all people, who found me! Her name was Selthia, she untied me. I asked if there was anything that I could do to repay her. She told me the only thing I could do was help her find her family who was taken by a man named Lord Soth. We set out early the next morning, I had my trusty Hoopak with me and she hers. After a days travel we came upon the remains of her village. It had been burned to the ground and all the people were taken. She explained that Soth's minions had gathered them all over by the trees and they dissappeared into the mist. I couldn't think of anything to do. We stayed there that night. I had never been real religious but I figured the only way to get her family back was to use magic. Well even kender knew who the god of the Red Mages was, so I prayed to Lunitari. My prayer went as follows: "Ah Mr. Lunitari. My friend has lost her family and I was wondering if well you know if you could help me. I know that this Sooth person or his dirty little followers anyway took her family and used magic to escape. Well I was wondering if well if you could give me enough magic to well travel to where Sooth...I mean Soth is hiding, and to rescue her family. You know I am a good person no matter what that guy back at the bar said about his gold. Please help me." Well to my surprise as you can guess Lunitari appeared before me as a woman. Well I immediately corrected the Mr. part. She looked at me and spoke. "Kender do you know what you ask? If I were to grant you the power of magic it could well do more harm than good." "But I have to do something." I responded. She looked thoughtful, then spoke again. "Kender I will make you a deal . You will have the power you need to rescue the family of your friend IF you do not return from the world you must venture to." I was shocked she asked me to stay in a world away from this and to never see MY family again yet my word was my bond. "Sure." At that instant she raised her arms and was gone. Shortly after there was a red glow from the moon Lunitari and before me appeared a red crystal necklace. I placed it upon my neck and "POOF" I could understand magic.....somewhat anyway. Then out of nowhere the mists at the edge of the field started to swirl. A portal formed and I entered and all went black. When I woke I was in a dark realm where mist surrounded all of the town. The towns folk wandered aimlessly. I stopped a man and he looked at me and screamed. "Ahh Lord Soth has sent another. Run all the Vampires are here again" With that they all ran. "Vampires where?" I looked around everywhere with my vial of holy water I had found a few weeks ago in a temple of Paladine I think, it was just sitting on the altar. Then a woman approached with a long sword. "You there vampire prepare to die again." She charged. I turned to look behind me to see where the vampire she was charging was. There was nothing so I turned to the woman just in time to see her swing her sword at ME. "Hey lady quit it I am not a vampire!" She stoped her attack for a moment just in time for me to discover that I could cast yet another spell...Hold. My hands flew about as if not my own and my mouth spoke, but not my words. She stopped where she was frozen solid. Probably not what the spell was supposed to do but hey it worked So Soth was here, but where. It was then that I noticed what appeared to be an overgrown badger running up the street toward an Inn. Well my curiosity got the best of me so I followed. Well I was truly surprised to find that in this Inn there were several Kender! It had to be them. "Hey badger boy uhhh are those guys from back home." Apparently the badger boy comment did not go over well with this guy because he attacked me. Well far be it for me to be known as a coward, but I couldn't help but dodge him and smack him in the back with my hoopak. It would appear that this knocked him silly not much of a knocking. "Well you guys want to leave?" I asked the group of kender. One of them stepped forward. "Lets go before the vampires come back up." He looked back at the root cellar. "Ok lets go follow me." That's when I heard the cellar door creak open. Five kender came out and looked around. "Run!" Said the kender who had spoken earlier. "Why they are just more kender who need our help." That's when the necklace started to glow. Thats when I knew they were the vampires. "Everyone out the door!" I pointed the necklace at the door and a portal appeared. "GO!" The kender all ran into the portal. I was still trying to figure out how a kender could be afraid but then again self-preservation has always been a strong virtue among kender. When the last one was through I jumped in as well. All went black again. This time when I woke up I was in front of a castle on a bright sunny day. A guard approached me and put me on my feet. "Sir are you all right? You just appeared there. You are awfully short for an elf, aren't you?" The guard asked. "Elf! I am not an elf I am a Kender." I said, not really pleased at being compared to a drunken elf. The guard then said I would have to go with him and meet some lord Nashier. We entered the chamber of this Lord guy and he looked at me and spoke softly. "So your not an Elf?" I was really getting sick of being called an elf "No I am a Kender. K...E...N...D...E...R. Got it?" "Sorry if I made you mad but we have never heard of a Kender." With that he turned to a guard and whispered to him. The guard then bowed and left. "Please enjoy yourself here at my castle for as long as you like." With that I was escorted to a room. Where I was locked in! Can you believe it LOCKED IN! An hour later a man came in all dressed like a red mage from home. He came over to me and sat down. He was truly a strange character. "So you are our little visitor. I am Eliminster. You are?" "I am Herald Sharptounge of Kenderhome. I am the only Kender to use magic." ,he did not seem to know what to think about all of this, "I would truly be grateful if you could teach me more of using magic." Eliminster decided to teach me the art of magic. He would complain daily of the troubles with teaching me anything. Then one day he asked me to show him the spell that I used to get here, I did as I was asked and he jumped through the portal and dissappeared. I never saw him again. Since that dreaded day it has become my personal quest to find Eliminster my beloved master and return him home. Kendermage Journal of Blackthorn (Submitted by Chayely) enter 1. July 29 My learned uncle says I should keep a journal; that it helps you grow to put things down on paper. I ain't much good with words, but maybe he's right. I feel a need to find myself. Don't know why I'm here or what I'm good for, but I got to find out. Tomorrow I leave Ashberry and strike out for Neverwinter. Personally I'd rather be cold than hot. The idea of a river that keeps a place warm may be helpful, but I like snow and cold, crisp weather. Nothin as nice as walkin through the woods during a snowstorm. Air smells cleaner, and it's quiet. Can't stand it when it's hot! At least this place is north from here and Uncle says it suppose to have many wonders. Ambereye will go wit me. He's a one-eyed mangy wolf; best friend a halfelf in a human village could have. Great granma says I have a way with plants and animals. Great granma is an elf. Lives by herself on the otherside of Badger Ridge. Can't be more specific, she likes her privacy, as if anyone could find her should she not want to be found. Only reason she is near here at all is because she wanted to be close to my sister and me. Taught me lots bout growin things and creatures. All for me goin now that i'm older. Agrees to my wantin to find my way. Sis il be allright. More accepted than me. Looks more human. Enough writin. Tires me out more than fellin 50 trees. Blackthorn The Story of the Bracelet Chapter 26: Prelude to the Final Battle (Submitted by Vallus) "Mozenrath!" came the snarl from Jasmine's lips. "That is correct princess." replied the evil wizard "You know, once I've conquered Agrabah, I think I'll keep you around." "I'll never be your wife!" "Who said anything about a wife? You'd simply be one of my concubines." At that comment, a beam of blue energy streaked from the sapphire in Jasmine's headband which momentarily disrupted the projection. "It's only an illusion Jasmine, it can't be hurt." said Leoster "So you're the one behind all this. What makes you think that we are doomed. I've been keeping score in these things and so far it's us three, you nothing." "You forget that I have effectively neutralized Aladdin and he is the only REAL threat to me. The rest of you are inconsequential. Even now, my castle is flying towards Agrabah, and I have picked out the perfect place, it overlooks the entire city. A pity that there's already a structure on the site." "What structure?" asked Crystal "Why, the palace of course." replied Mozenrath "The palace?!" said jasmine, a bit of quivering in her voice "But there are dozens of people inside!" "I know, a pity, but no precious magic will be damaged. Oh, I wouldn't try to get to me on your flying carpet if I were you. I have a magical shield around my castle and anything that touches it will be turned to ash in moments. Perhaps I'll see you after I crush the palace under my castle." And with that, the image disappeared. "We've got to get back to The Phoenix!" began Crystal "It's our only chance to stop him!" "Right," responded Jasmine "we've got to stop Mozenrath from destroying the palace." Soon, Leoster, Jasmine, Crystal, and Genie, along with the flying carpet, were aboard The Phoenix as it lifted off from behind the palace. The mighty ship streaked through the sky towards Mozenrath's flying emerald castle. Leoster and Crystal sat in the ruby helm chairs while Jasmine stood between and behind them. All too soon Mozenrath's flying fortress came into view. Just then, a Giff soldier walked in cradling a sapphire sword in his hands. "What's this?" asked Leoster as he looked back from his position "I found this in the armory sir." said the big blue fighter "It was the only weapon that was glowing sir." "Thank you." said Jasmine as the sword's hilt found her hand "This will be handy in there." Jasmine made a few practice swipes in the air with her new weapon and then strapped on a belt with sheath attached and put her new sword into it. As The Phoenix approached the flying fortress, crimson rays streaked from the eyes, carving a hole in the green shield large enough for The Phoenix to fly through. Once it was through the shield, it crashed through one of the emerald walls. Leoster, Crystal, Jasmine, Genie, and the flying carpet came up on deck to see an army of undead Manluks and emerald statues come to life. "Emerald Eradicators" breathed Leoster, then he yelled "All marines on deck now!" and a few dozen Giff soldiers came up on deck. Leoster drew his ruby dagger, Crystal drew her ruby sword, and Jasmine drew her sapphire sword. "ATTACK!" came the command. Starflash The Sword of Agility-Chapter Four (Submitted by Niasen ) "How are we going to take on all those orcs???" Grath asked himself aloud. He paced the floor of his room in the Lonely Inn. He had been doing so for the last twenty minutes. His supply of cash was to its end; this was the last night he could afford to stay in this room. He wondered how Inferno was doing. After all, the mage had needed Grath's money to help pay Shade. Perhaps Bobby was helping Inferno out. "Enough of this worrying. Tomorrow we will attack the orcs again and I can get the money I need." Inferno and Bobby were also having money problems. They decided to check out of one room and share a room. Bobby ungratefully slept on a pile of blankets on the floor while Inferno rested peacefully in the rooms one bed. This way they should have been able to stay in the inn long enough to finish the orc job. No one was sure where Shade was staying, and no one cared to ask. He seemed rather dangerous, and yet Grath sensed the halfling wasn't all that deadly.....yet. Julie stayed in her own room in the Lonely Inn. As to her financial condition, she wasn't in a desperate situation yet, but was getting there. Odd that none of these adventurer's came prepared to pay for a few nights rest. Inferno, Grath, and Bobby just plain out didn't have any money to bring. Julie hadn't planned on staying in Chelcoth very long before returning to her home in Elven Town (as called by humans). Shade...well Shade had everything taken care of. So they slept and waited for the next day when their swords would again clash with those of the orcs. The next morning was overcast and showed signs of possible rain. No sunlight penetrated the thick gray of the clouds above the adventurer's as they met outside the Lonely Inn. Inferno peered upward uneasily. Grath rubbed his face to try to wake up. Indeed the only one who seemed to be quite awake was Bobby. He was in a jovial mood, which didn't make much sense considering his sleeping arrangements. Something to do with his god, Grath thought. He finally shook his head a little and looked at his group. "Well let's go get some orcs," he said half-hearted, and started plodding off towards the east. "Right!" Bobby added in loudly. It was while he was glaring at him that Grath noticed Bobby had brought a small, yet effective looking mace. Could the cleric actually be thinking of bashing some heads? Large droplets began to plummet from the darkened sky and soaked into the adventurer's clothing. Soon all were sopping and in poor spirits, except for the cleric. He joyfully looked up and squinted while the rain splattered in his face. While they were walking Grath decided to find a roommate. "I've got a problem. I don't have enough money to continue staying in the Lonely Inn. Does any one want to share a room and the rent?" Grath knew he couldn't even pay half of the rent, but he hoped he'd be able to after this fight. If he survived. Shade looked up and scowled. Inferno and Bobby looked at Grath and shook their heads. Julie glanced back and forth, she saw the others' reactions and then found Grath to be looking at her. His eyes flashed with worry. Julie's eyes widened and she raised an eyebrow as if to be asking, "Me?" Grath looked down and chagrined. Then he felt a hand on his back. He looked up from the watery grasses and found Julie standing next to him. "You can sleep on the floor," she said with a slight smile. Then she took a more serious tone, "No funny business." (To be continued) by Niasen of The Conclave The Stranger By Spooky 100 Once upon a time, near the great city of Waterdeep, there was a stranger. He was a young human, untested in battle, not yet ready to truly understand the ways of the world. He had lived in the southern lands before coming, his father and mother were both farmers and they expected him to be the same. So, at 18 when they wanted him to stay and farm he told them he wanted to roam, to go and adventure in the great lands to the north. They were outraged, both of them told him to leave that night, never to return. He agreed the proposal was to his taste, packing only a short sword and rations for a week, he left and journeyed to the north. Along the way he was ambushed by a single orc, he quickly dispatched it, not even recieving more than a shallow cut from it's claws. Upon it's body was a single platinum piece, which he took and continued on his way. The stranger walked on, occasionly swimming acrossed rivers. As he went north he met a few adventurers, they told him of the troubles the north was in. One, all but dead from a battle with a horde of demons, gave him a gift. It was a hammer, he regarded it quizzically, then took it and thanked the man. He was sure the weapon was why the elder man was dying by the side of the road. Later, that night he was attacked by several skeletons, he was sure he was to die, he struck them with the pitiful sword and it cracked. He seized his only other weapon, the hammer and drove it into the skull of the undead creature, it shattered and the creature perished. He made quick work of the others, and he reaped the rewards when he collected a chain mail armor suit. He put it on and took the money the skeletons had left behind, then he was on his way. He neared the cities, they were all dangerous places for him to be, he barely fled evil adventures in them. He neared a city that several people informed him was cursed, they said that Neverwinter was a horrible place, destroyed by raiders, spies, thieves, wizards, demons, and the like. He said that it sounded like a good place for him. He entered the town through the south wall, it was a crumbling section of the once great city. He journeyed through it and then he came to the centermost region of the city. It was a beautiful place, he stood in front of a huge castle and grinned, he had found a place to call home. For several days he preyed on the weaker creatures, killing them and retreating to heal. He got better, yet he was still a weakling in the eyes of the other heroes in the city. He saw that many joined the guilds, factions of the adventurers that warred amongst themselves. He wanted to find one for a person like himself. He knew he was a good person, he hated all things evil, he also had always repelled the bats where he lived, they hated him and stayed away. He considered this and realized it was because he was one of the Paladins, warriors of light who were polarized oppositely from the darkness that enveloped so many in the wicked times that they were in. He had seen many in the streets, some of them seemed to go beyond the fighters of evil, they were polite to the weak, helping them with charitable gifts and advice, all different classes did that, but this group stood out in the young man's mind. So, he approached one on a bright day outside the great Vaults of Neverwinter. "Hail stranger, I am looking for a guild to become one with a group. I have noticed ye are always around, helping those less fortunate or powerful as yourselves, can ye help me discover one that I mayst call my brothers?"he asked. The other man, a tall Paladin with blue eyes and dark hair smiled and nodded. "Surely, I know of a group that ye may join. Come and speak with my friend."he said. He led the newcomer to the Tavern and when they were inside he introduced him to a man sitting in the corner alone. "Hello, who have you brought?"asked the man. "A newcomer. He would like to become one with the sun."said the man. "Are you an honest, true man? Do you understand that evil is a plague that must be combatted?"asked the loner. "Yes. I wish to fight it!"said the stranger. "Good, good. You can become a warrior of the sun, if you would like you can join us."said the loner, he motioned for the two to sit. "What is the guild's name?"asked the stranger. "The Sun Clan of Warriors, it is a fairly new guild, becoming more powerful with each day. The guild was originally in another land, it has come here to fight the rot that permeates this place."said the first man. "Ah! I see. I would like to be a Sun."said the stranger. "If you would like you may join my legion in the Suns. We are the Order of the Rays of Hope."said the second man, he looked up from his drink as he said this. "Aye! I will join the Order and be a steadfast supporter of the cause."said the stranger. "Then ye be welcome to Neverwinter, ye are now a Sun. All ye must do is recite the oath and pledge that you will never commit the evil deeds, ye will never align yourself with another guild, and ye always help a fellow Sun, a Sun ally, or an honest adventurer who has never done ye or the Suns any harm. Ye must say that ye will never dishonor the Suns or the cause. Do ye accept?" "I do."said the stranger. In the next few hours he met the members of the guild, and found an instant comraderie developed. He was proud to be a member already. Over the next few months he progressed to a point where he was done the first level of his adventuring and he continued on, becoming wiser and stronger, always honoring the Suns. Several months after coming to Neverwinter he was in the Tavern, reflecting on his former life, when he was befriended by a tall magic user. The man insisted that he was his friend and asked if he would like to come to the Sewers of Neverwinter with him to pursue creatures. He accepted the offer, deciding it would be great to go with a more powerful guide and fight the evil. He still was unwise in the ways of evil adventurers and did not know that the new friend would do him harm. He noticed several other averagely powered characters join, they went to the Sewers, but the stranger was barred entrance because he did not have an access card. Later, while travelling outside the South Wall he overheard the one he thought was his friend was telling another how "you should always be careful who you travel with, they may ambush you. I do it.", this made the newcomer more wary of the evil that he had nearly succumbed to. If he had entered the Sewers with the group, he would have been going like cattle to slaughter. He surely would have died. From then on, he travelled only with those he knew to be of good alignment. Later, he recieved a message from his home, it seemed that the citizens had sent word to the heroes of Neverwinter that help was needed, some form of argument had led to hundreds of monsters streaming into the village. The newcomer set off to help at once, he brought along the members of the Suns, always anxious to help those who were also good. They came to the village a week later, it was in shambles. Houses were destroyed, citizens lay dead in the street. The raiders were gone without a trace. The newcomer found that his parents had been slain as well. He buried them and the others, with the others Suns they erected a mass grave, and buried the 50 odd residents of the poor, rural village. The newcomer then left, he had put the old ways behind him and was ready to embrace the ways of the Suns fully, for now Neverwinter was his only place he could find comfort and friendship, it was his only home. How do I know of all these things? I may tell you, that the tale you have heard is historical fiction most of the things recounted actually took place and have only been embelished. I was that newcomer and I still am, I am Spooky, of the Sun Clan of WARRIORS, The Order of the Rays of Hope. I am a Sun, a weak one albeit, but a Sun nonetheless. If you see me in the realms, I will always offer whatever help you may need me for, talk to me, I'll always be true to my friends and allies. Those who would halt the spread of evil in Neverwinter are to be commended, they are the true heroes of our world Protectorate Paladin Booth (Submitted by Talgar) Well kiddies...Friday Night, the 21st of July, the first ever Sanctioned Protectorate Fireball Booth was held in Southwall. Talgar,the new Lord of Paladins of the Protectorate, was 'roasted' by 25 eager players. After running the gauntlet to find the booth, the players then Qued up to cast two Fireball spells at the hapless victim.. With Sir Dorvan running the show,Sir Lione keeping the score and the Que, Tyst and Jecele threw water on the singed Talgar between rounds. 50 fireballs later, the results are in, and the winner is Kamahele with a score of 79!!! He wins 2 Pearls and Guild of Hero's Access. Congratulations to Kamahele! The runners-up, their scores and prizes are as follows: Bloodfeast 61 Cloak +3 Spellgazer 61 Plate Mail +3 Sol Missy 60 Displacement Cloak Skribbles 54 Cloak +2 Jecele 54 Ring +1 Dantbh1 47 Shield +2 Sol Asp 45 Bracer's AC 4 Sol Saga 45 Magic Missile Wand Star Aura 43 Dagger +3 Deadoralive cast the lowest score of 32, and won the dubious prize of a Cursed Flail -2. Congratulations to all the winners, especially to Talgar, who can now boast to having the best Tan in Neverwinter Nights....(grin)... Keep your eyes peeled for future such events with bigger and better prizes. <><><><> <><><><> Here ye' Here ye' July 25 will forever be marked as a day of mourning. This day a valliant cleric of Never Winter was put to rest. He will always be remembered in the hearts and souls of all who knew him. His memory and eternal struggle to rid Never Winter of all it's problems will never be forgotten. So let it be known! May you forever rest in peace, oh valiant Psudeo! <><><><> TIP (Submitted by Lotus100) If your cleric or paladin and are low on hitpoints, and need to heal fast hl then fix heal then fix. Just keep doing that and you will be back to full hitpoints in no time. This week in the Great Hall Tavern, Seabrina D, gets a golden goblet and Guild of Heroes Access for her patronage and best downing of the infamous "Carry Me" drinks, the TavernKeep's specialty! The Great Hall Tavern is open under the watchful eye of NWT Cyane Wednesday and Friday evenings from 11pm to 1am eastern time. The most prolific role player during the week receives Guild of Heroes access! :D The Great Hall can be accessed from the AD&D Online menu; click on the Great Hall of Neverwinter. :) =NWT Cyane= Your friendly TavernKeep P.S. Check out our HotTub! Best in the Realms!!! :D <><><><><> <><><><><> 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. <><><><><> <><><><><>