==========oOo========== NEVERWINTER NEWS Issue #91 Week Ending 7-16-95 ==========oOo========== *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* FRONT PAGE *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Congratulations to SirExegete for winning last week's News of the Realm contest. SirExegete has earned choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes) WTG! <><><><><> <><><><><> July Trivia Results July 11, 1995 ___________ *** First Place - Dam1on 31 points! *** ** Second Place - Sequitur 29 points! ** * Third Place - Gherkin II 17 points! * Random Drawing Winner - Iz Ilven ____________________________________________________ The winners will have the time credited to their account and pearls credited to their screen name. * First Place - 4 FREE hours and 25 Pearls * Second Place - 3 FREE hours and 20 Pearls * Third Place - 2 FREE hours and 15 Pearls * Random Drawing - 5 Pearls Congrats and thanks from NW Baldor and NW Strahd : ) <><><><><> <><><><><> Having heard that the Mage had been sighted yet another time in the well under FloodBlest, I issued a call to arms. A band of hearty fighers, be they magic users or clerics or of a fighter type, joined me in NeverWinter square to see if we could rid the realms of this menace. After making our way through a few lizards and pyro-snakes, we managed to make the inn at FloodBlest where we rested and prepared for the descent into the town's well that we heard about. The party, consisting of Myself, PhyreBird, Lyonstar, Burncycl, LtJakeBshr, BudKiller, Kenwood B and WylTex, left the inn and descended into the well but after taking but a few steps, we ran into a band of bugbears who did manage to slay one of the party. After retreiving the party member, we continued on our way. After losing a couple of party members to the punt monster at this point, ITB Dawg joined the party to aid in the search for this mighty foe. We managed to fight our way through many battles, hoping to catch sight of the mage. We happened upon a room where we heard much shouting. Trying to enter the room, we found the mage instructing his troups and upon spying us did let loose with his magics. He felled two of my fighters then fled yet again. I went and got the party members that had been slain, and continued on our way, hoping against hope to catch this evil that had been let loose on the realms. He was, indeed, determined to stop us as he continued to throw battle after battle in our paths. However, we managed to make our way to the lowest parts of the well, only to find that he had slipped from our grasp yet again. With but five of the party members left to tell the tale, we did manage to find the way to the surface again and make our way to the inn to rest up and make our way back to NeverWinter City to report to His Lord Nasher that the mage had slipped away yet again. ::sigh:: Maybe some party of hearty warriors will be able to find him and bring him to justice for the havoc he is causing. Happy hunting. -NW Triel <><><><><> <><><><><> Tonights location hunt winner is JAGUAR AZ Jag found me trapped in the slave Pensof the NS Caverns in under 9 minutes.. Wining him 4 pearls and an hour of online time.. Hobbsie.. <><><><><> <><><><><> We assembled in the Neverwinter Gardens to embark upon our mission. Lord Nasher's request to investigate trouble reported in Port Llast harbor was of utmost urgency... Keinli, Louise1995, Greensir, Kzhunter, Magicviper, Sir Author and I set out from Neverwinter on our journey. We met many a foul beast on the way, slaying many and losing none... unfortunately Sir Author had to depart early on. Dwyvyrn of Clan Axepeake happened by sometime later, and joined us for our continuing journey northward... We reached Port LLast in good shape, although Magicviper had to leave us there. We rested at the Griffon Inn, preparing for our journey out into the docks to view the reported ghost ship Gallant Prince... and had to drag poor Dwyvyrn away from his ale! The drow Bannwyn happened upon our party as we journeyed towards the docks and joined forces with us. We slowly and carefully explored the haunted ship, ridding it of many a hideous creature. Deftly avoiding the gazes of the Medusae, we gained our prizes and headed back to Neverwinter! Congrats and well done to all who participated! NWA Kyrae <><><><><> <><><><><> Tour 7/10/95 I read the orders I had received from Lord Nasher a second time. I was to lead a patrol of adventurers southward seeking a hidden Temple of Bane. The patrol was to clear any dangers from the roads and discover this evil place and destroy it. Gathering my gear, I headed out to collect a party to aid me. They gathered at the Great Hall, young Thranquol, the pious Mech Force, half-elven Danscolusk, the noble Zeb Jones, valiant Ajay 34, and sturdy Dwyvern. With an ale shared amongst comrades and a toast to Lord Nasher, the patrol headed southward. Kid Storm joined us as we left the gate heading into Southwall. No sooner had we reached the outskirts and Danscolusk was attacked. A fierce crocodile leapt at him. Ajay charged to the rescue. Soon we all gathered around the fallen crocodile, as Kid Storm debated whether he would make boots or a belt with the hide. Laughing with relief.. we headed onward into the town of Vilnask and past the shop of the famed Willo Clover. Danscolusk was attacked again.. this time by ravenous wolves. Fighting our way through this ambush, we walked but a few more steps and suddenly found that brave Dwyvern had been surrounded. The wolves were out in force this eve! All charged into the battle to aid the brave dwarf. Kid Storm's fireball singed their hair and put them to flight.. but also caught Dwy within its magic. Patting out the smouldering cloak and helping Dwy with his sudden and dire thirst for ale.. we decided that Kid Storm was sincere in his "accidental" targeting. A few steps more along the road and both Ajay and Mech Force turned off the road to check out another path. Bidding them luck, we continued. A few steps later, Kid Storm left the patrol. I don't personally think Dwy's muttering caused it, but who can say what effects a pira.. er.. sailor? The studious Bradgerion joined us then.. bringing with him very effective magics. It seemed that we fought every step of the way toward Crossergate. I began to wonder if the Banites had heard we were coming, for opposition was fierce and constant. Dans, was ambushed time and time again, until I began to think the youngster had the instincts of a brawler and was seeking the fights. Still, we won through to Crossergate. There the wolves were joined by vicious ice breathing hounds. A ranger, Fire Ember joined us on the road and together we made our way, through many battles to the Crossergate Inn. Drinking another toast.. warming ourselves from the breath of the hounds.. we decided to continue and search out the evil temple. Finding a secret door, we snuck through and into a maze of passageways. The party was now smaller, but still the monsters assailed us. Thran was forced to leave us.. needing to return at once to Neverwinter City. Working together behind the spells of Bradge ... the trident of Fire Ember, sword of Zeb Jones and the bow of Dwyvern, we won through to reach a winding twisting maze. Displacer Beasts and Hell Hounds... many different creatures sought to stop us in our quest. Finally we reached the Temple of Bane and found it blocked by a strange invisible barrier. Dwyvern's attempts to breach it.. through a head slam.. failed. We decided to seek another path... In one battle, young Zeb fell before the fires of a salamander. Swearing vengeance.. we destroyed the monster and dedicated the quest to the paladin. "Onward!", we cried. Reaching at last a room.. we discovered a Banite priest and his minions. A slay.. destroyed the cleric.. Tyr's might felling the evil one in a single spell. Within the pockets of the robes.. we found a note. One look and I knew we must return it at once to Lord Nasher. Racing back to Neverwinter, we reported our findings, and had another bit of ale.. since Dwy had a mighty thirst. Thanks to all who participated! NWA Ember <><><><><> <><><><><> Ice Storm Booth 7/15 Many thanks to all who came to help me "cool down" by casting those lovely Ice Storms. I'm not sure the mayor will forgive us for using his recreation room... but, ::grins:: at least they can play a nice game of hockey in there now. Congratulations to the winner.... ITTHUMPS who... nailed me for 46 points of ice damage. NWA Ember <><><><><> *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* 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: July 16th Sunday 5:00 PM ET - Join NWA Shaka for a tour of the Realm. Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet!;D New Player Tour July 18th, Tuesday 8:00 PM ET - Join NW Ulfius for a tour of the Realm. Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet!;D New Player Tour: July 21st, Friday 10:00 PM ET - Join NWA Skye for a tour of the Realm. Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet!;D New Player Tour: July 23rd Sunday 4:00 PM ET Join NWA Kregar for a tour of the Realm. Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet!; <><><><><> <><><><><> Jumped (Submitted by DarkWolfMM ) Of the greatest woes, that an adventurer knows In the Realms that are forgotten Are the unseen blows, that an evil sows In a manner most truly rotten In certain places, and certain cases This thing you will befall In masked faces, with flails and maces They are looking for a braul On the unsuspecting, and neighbor respecting They are ready to attack With mercy rejecting, and suprize expecting They appear upon your back The adventurer turns, and his stomach churns, With rage for this wronging For this the evil yurns, and his very heart burns For your death his is longing If you choose to whine, you have not the spine To go in areas such as these The evils give no sign, which by me is just fine As is that they never say please Tis an unhealthy test, for you did not know to rest And the evil is ready and prepared You've not cast blest, these strolls are not your best Saying such might help, if he cared An unfortunate thing, this unprovoked bashing But truly think not it bad Experience it will bring, and of revenge you may sing But at the time, you may be mad Do not down lay, in a peaceful way You must express your last right It is not to die, with just a sigh But it is to fight the fight Evils can only take, things that men did make And the greatest things they cannot touch Tis honor you uphold, with fire, magic and cold For to die with honor gives pain not much Truly the lesson here, is one I consider dear To be strong and your fear tame You may die without fear, and never shed a tear For death with honor brings no shame Think me not liking this, truly it is a deadly kiss Concede not to death, untill your last breath Fight with your wits, and slay the evil twits To be jumped can be sweet, if it's you left on your feet There is still luck to be had, to bless the deserted and sad So give the hold a try, and with it time try to by I may be jumped, but never shall I be stumped As to the action I must take,... Kill who I can and fight like a man To spit in the eye of death As well as I can, is my plan Priest of Tempus (Submitted by SOL Priest) The young acolyte walked along the road, heading north, his destination the small town of Neverwinter. His holy symbol hung around his neck, marking him as a priest of Tempus, the Lord of Battles. He had been walking for a week now and by this night he would arrive at his destination. The High Priest of Tempus in Waterdeep had told him to make this journey. To report to the Temple in Neverwinter, to aid and support the Soldiers of Light. He had been told that the lands surrounding Neverwinter had turned into a battle ground, and soon more priests would follow. But for now, his service was needed. He had packed few possessions, as the journey was a long one on foot and he did not wish to be weighted down with personal effects. The love of serving Tempus, his heart full, was all that this priest needed. As darkness fell around him, he saw the lights of the town on the road ahead. He was to search out and find the Guildmaster of the Soldiers of Light, Abysss. He would report to him, then begin his work in Neverwinter. Reaching into a leather sack he carried with him, he withdrew two small statues and looked at them. The first was an ivory mare. This was called Veiros and would bring blessings on any battle fought. The second was an ebony stallion. This was called Deiros and would foretell defeat. Putting the two small statues back into the sack, he smiled, as he had learned his lessons well. He had reached Neverwinter and the sounds of battle could be heard all around the town. As he entered the streets he was amazed at the number of adventurers that wandered here and there. Taking out a small map, he looked around and determined the direction to Striders Inn, there he was to meet Abysss and join the Soldiers of Light. "May Tempus, Lord of Battles, Foehammer, God of War be served well by such a humble servant", he spoke softly to himself. Putting the map away, he made his way to Striders Inn. Death of a Lady (Submitted by Ldyidlwild ) Lady Idlewild falls back against the wall of the MS Inn, clutching the post she has just read to her chest. Tears begin to fall. As if in a trance, she ascends the stairs and goes into her room. Finding two specific items, she hides them in her skirts and leaves the Inn. Still clutching the post, she reads it again as she makes her way to the Gardens of Neverwinter. "Oh my Lord...my Lord."she cries aloud as she makes her way. Passersby stare at the beautiful stricken maiden, wondering what is wrong with her. She enters the Garden, pausing to smell the roses and blooming azaleas. Sobs wrack her body... She removes the two items from her skirts and sits on the garden bench where she and her Lord Wamphyri spent many hours talking, laughing, and making love. With trembling hands she places the post on the bench next to her and lays the dagger down beside her. Then she unstops the tiny vial of glowing liquid. The Lady takes the dagger and dips just the very tip in the vial of venom. Taking a deep breath and glancing down at the post, she places both hands on the hilt of the dagger and points it at her breast. With one huge heave, the dagger hits its mark and the Lady Idlewild is no more. STORY (Submitted by LUUNATIK) As I steped from the brick hole in the wall, the sirens stired about and screached accross the cool night air. I could see the fence glistening in the spot lights that fled from the tops of the buildings. Crossing back and forth, like X's on the ground. The rain poured down, and the sounds of my feet were covered in the pitter patter of the downfall. My foot droped down to the ground, and soon, my foot was squishing and squashing. The puddle must have been half a foot deep. My neck stretching wide to see around the corners and above the bricks on top of the buildings. Studying the patterns of the lights.. I timed my run to the culvert pipe just right. Once inside of it, i was flowing freely, holding my breath, under the thick water until it happened. I hit the grate. Something I had not anticipated, and something that would end my escape imidiately. My foot pounded onto the grate, and then i heard a noise. It was something major, because I heard it through the water of the pipes. Soon the pipes level droped, and the water level dropped. I slid under the grate fell down a great hole into the earth. WHAM, i hit. Landing on a large soft pillow type thing. Heaving, I tried to gain my breath, and stand up. My head pounding from stress of lack of oxygen. I got up from the pad type thing, and walked to where i found a wall. I searched the wall, and found that it had only one corner. And next to this corner was a tiny switch. I clicked the switch and the single light at the cieling clicked on. The dust on it was imaculate, and dimed the amount of light. In the oposite end of the corner, I can see a small little door, on A box. Opening the door, I find an old skeleton, which fell to the floor. In its lap, was a letter. Opening the letter I find the writing a bit hard to read, and have to strain to grasp the language. At the end of the letter, I notice the signature saying LORD NASHER. Now, I was interested. I proceded to read the letter, and found myself more intreged. The letter ended up being a plea for help. He claims that the theves in a place called the 'warehouse district', which i had no idea of where it was, had come too powerfull for his guards to handle them. I jumped as the sounds of dogs ran over head, and then began to read the letter again. The hand, along with the letter, fell to my side as i peeked into this box. I found only two magical stones, and an engraving on the front of the box. "CLICK AND THINK". I had no clue to what it meant, but I was indeed interested. I clicked the two stones together, and thought about what was goin' on with this letter from LORD NASHER. Upon thinking this, i suddenly got dizzy. As i fell over, my head hit the corner of the box, and i dropped the stones, into the box. When I awoke, I found myself, being stared at by some funny looking creatures. I jumped up and slithered to the wall asking them who they were. They claimed to be the Mages of the Kraken clan. I said that I had no idea what they were talking about. Then they proceded to tell me that I had washed in from the Sea OF Swords. "Where is the sea of swords?" i asked. "tis the land of water that you washed in on. Do you not know of this great body of water?" one said. As I sat there, wondering what was goin' on with me, the largest of the group exclaimed out "the is only a stupid little pest from The main land. Let us kill him and put him back in the watter. He is a Stupid Loonatic. That word entered in my mind, and then they began to talk to each other using funny names. I chose Luunatik as my name. "You shal pay for this I tell you. I am the Luunatik, and I care not what you think" Scampering out of the little room I ran to where i could see a ship. Sneakin on the ship, and hiding behind a large crate, I found myself falling asleep. When I awoke, I human ws above me this time. "Sit still, Yer head is bruised badly" whispered this small voice. The lady had a rag and was dampering my forehead. "Wow, I am having a heck of a nightmare. I dont think that I can live through much more of this. Lord nasher, kraken mages, what next? Thank god you woke me...." i was explaining, as she interupted, "Please, sit stil. I fear you are badly hurt. Lord nasher shal return shortly and tell us of what to do with you." "ACK!!!!! yer kidding me, I can't be in .. in.. where am i anyways?" i asked. "why, yer in neverwinter m'lord." she replied. "never, who? What is this place?" she then began to tell me the story of the magical rocks and that they had come from the valcano which is now dornmant. To get home she explained, I would have to wait until the valcano was active again. My jaw dropped to the floor, and I passed out again. When I awok the second time there was a set of armor sitting on the chair. I put it on, just to see how it was. "I see you have found the armor I left you. I hope it fits you well young luunatik. You have much to learn this day." Says a voice. As I pear around the room, I see a man, with a white beard, and a long sword drapped from his hip. And so it was, I began my adventure, starting with cleric skills, and then begining magic users. Soon, Lord nasher explained, I would know what there was to know. Few years later, as I sat at my spot on the shore next to the sea, i began to get a funny feeling. I had been at that spot on the shore every day, wondering if I would ever get used to being alone in the great lands of neverwinter and the forgoton realms. I wondered if anyone would ever accept me. Soon, I would have to fight myself from crying, and then, out of the corner of my eye, a body apeared in the water. My eyes first catching the awkward clothing he was wearing, then, noticing that it was slightly moving. As i drug it out of the water, it grabed me and its eyes enraged with a red glow. A raspy voice came from the body, but its mouth did not move.... "YOU SHAL DIE IN THE REALMS. RETURN HOME NOW BOY." This is what made up my mind. I vowed to be excepted by all, and to make people want to like me. I would never again, be called the "STUPID LUUNATIK". Eternity Blade (Part 1) (Submitted by Lian Storm) Silverymoon was two days march away. I shared my fire with my newfound friend, a moon elf named Divon. His clear blue eyes looked as torn by grief as when I had found him, the day before, by his love's grave. I had tried to cheer him up, even coaxing him into a few half hearted smiles, but I could do nothing for the sadness that was eating away at his soul. He didn't seem to feel the evening breeze, or taste what little food I could convince him to eat. The fire burned quietly between us untill I could no longer stand the silence. "Where will you go now?" I asked him. "I'm alone now. It doesn't matter," he intoned sadly. His common had almost as much of an accent as my elven. "I suppose I'll return to Evermeet." I can not imagine having more longing in my eyes had Divon been offered the crown jewels of Corymyr. Evermeet! The island home of the elves and a place I, a half- elf, would never be alowed to go. My mother had been there once, and she used to tell me stories of it's beauty. I can recall seeing tears in her eyes when she spoke of it. I realized I had been staring and quickly changed the subject. "I know a wizard in Silverymoon. I need him to take a look at this sword." I drew it out of it's jeweld scabard and held it out to him. Its hilt was gold with a large saphire in the pomel. Both were covered with magic and espurar runes. The blade was light but strong and decorated with runes just below the hilt. The elf stared for a moment in wonder forgetting his own grief. He reached out to touch it. "No!" I said sharply pulling it away. "The only reason I have the sword is because he shocks the senses out of everyone else who touches him." "He?" Divon asked curiously. I stopped, realizing I had referred to the sword as if it were a man. Images of a handsome gold elf wearing the sword danced on the border of my memory. I couldn't place them; they were like fading memories of a dream. "You need some rest," I said finally, shrugging, "I'll take first watch." Divon managed a weak smile and lay down under a tree. His sleep, or at least, what elves call sleep, was tortured by nightmares an he tossed violently. I sat down beside him and covered him with my blanket. When he calmed, I unsheathed my sword and held the blade in my hands. I had avoided doing so since I found it, but I needed answers. I relaxed my muscles and time stopped. There was no sun, moon, or stars. Overhead was a smooth, unbroken, saphire blue that cast a faint azure tint over the palace. A gold elf in chainmail stood in the arched doorway. He was tall and hansome, but somehow out of place. He held a slender hand out to a half-elven woman in the courtyard. She seemed so familiar to me. Perfumed blonde hair cascaded down her back, and her large hazel eyes sparkled in the strange light. She was dressed in an azure gown fit for Queen Amlaruil herself, and carried a gold hilted sword in a jeweled scabbard. The sword, her face, the way she moved; all were so familiar, but my mind was light and I couldn't think of her name. "Lianne, my darling," he called. I started to move forward, but it wasn't me he was calling, it was her. She walked up to him and took his arm and I realized, dumbfounded, that the woman was me! Starflash The Sword of Agility Chapter 2 (Submitted by Niasen Shade had supposedly stayed at the Lonely Inn that night. That's what he had told Grath. But now it was morning and Grath, Inferno, Bobby, and Julie were ready to go to the office of the Military Chief....Shade was nowhere to be found. "Great! I'll bet he doesn't even show up for the fight!" Grath said, "and I gave him almost all of my money." "Damn. We've been tricked rather easily," Inferno realized. Though he hoped that the halfling was either sleeping in or out for breakfast. "No use yelling about it, if he took off in the night he's miles from here now," Julie said as she saw the worry in Grath's eyes. He must really be broke, she thought. So they went to the Military Chief without the halfling, and this was probably for the better. Halflings like Shade weren't welcome in large human towns like Chelcoth. They almost always brought thievery or assassination with them. Who knew what the Military Chief would have said about him. The others were greeted pleasantly and were given the information they desired. The scouts that had spotted the camp estimated the number of orcs to be anywhere from thirty to sixty. The camp was located just inside the edge of the forest. When the scouts saw the camp, they had first noticed two guards standing near the forests edge. It was expected that these would remain there. The one piece of information that alarmed the adventurers was the possible sighting of a neighboring camp of gnolls. This had not yet been confirmed, and so numbers were not available. The thought of fighting sixty orcs with a backup of gnolls had the group leaving with heavy hearts. "We need more help," Grath muttered. He was still worried about where he was going to be sleeping this night. "If we hadn't wasted all our money on that blasted THIEF!...." "Well let's go get what we need from the inn and then go have a look at the camp," Bobby said smiling. He always seemed so happy and it angered Grath to the core. Didn't the half-elf ever worry? Grath looked to the elf. She was smiling too. He didn't seem to mind this much and smiled himself as they all walked back to the inn. Shade sat waiting for them in the front room with his back against the arm rest of the wooden bench and his short legs stretched out over the rest of it. He seemed like he was ready to fight; all that the others wanted to do was take a look at the camp. Perhaps one of the other four would have said something about Shade not showing up that morning had they not feared him so much. Few words were said as the adventurers ate some lunch that the inn keeper had prepared. They then went to their private rooms to get ready for what lay ahead. Grath came out in a well cared for and freshly oiled shirt of leather. It provided little protection except from glancing blows from the blade of a sword. He had his sword, and a short bow was slung on a quiver of sheaf arrows hanging on his back. Inferno seemed to have brought nothing other than himself and his loose, sweeping robes. Bobby had leather similar to Grath's except that Bobby's had the same odd coloration as his clothes. The red, yellow, green, purple, and blue would make him show up like a bonfire at midnight no matter what terrain he was in. Julie wore a green, long and loose sleeved shirt with a small cloak of the same color pinned closed at the bottom of her neck. She again wore a skirt, but Grath immediately saw it was not quite as short as the last. Dark brown boots reached up to just below her knees, covering from there down in soft leather. Shade wore a shirt of black leather, as well as some black leather pads over his shins and thighs. It was a good thing for him that it was still cool outside, for otherwise he would have roasted in such attire. As each member of the group gathered, everyone looked at Grath. "What now?" he asked, slightly perturbed. "Your leading, Grath," Julie informed him. "Me???" Grath seemed unsure. "Why me?" "Grath, you're the most natural leader. Besides, the Reeve gave this challenge mostly to you," this time it was Inferno who spoke. His patience seemed to be reaching its end. "OK. Then we go east. Why do you need me to tell you that? We all know that!" Julie patted his shoulder and smiled at his griping. This girl understands me better than anyone, Grath thought. They left Chelcoth heading east with the sun rising to it's peak above them. A few clouds blotted out some of the light from time to time and kept the black clothed halfling from breaking into a sweat. Grath led them for about one and a half hours with the others just stomping onward in no particular order. Grath took some time to get another good look at Julie. He saw again that she had no armor, and this worried him. He figured she was used to hunting with the bow, and therefore didn't close to melee range with most of her opponents. This would be different with the orcs, because they would certainly be able to get within melee striking distance. He wished she had armor for such combat, but the way the long sword hung easily at her side reminded him that he was probably wrong. Finally he had to quit thinking about her as the forest came into view. The group approached the forest cautiously and kept their eyes open. When they got near enough to make out the separate trees, they saw the two orc guards standing just within the trees. Grath knew that his group had been noticed long ago, appearing to the orcs most likely as a few dots against a vast open plain. He was just glad the orcs didn't feel it was necessary to sound an alarm. Grath instructed his group to move close enough to fire bows. He himself could fire his short bow somewhat accurately. Suddenly he no longer thought of just getting a look at the camp, he wanted a fight. He looked to his people as he told them to move within firing range; they seemed to think the same way. All were hungry for battle. Upon seeing the advancement of the adventurers, and the stringing of their bows, the two orcs drew scimitars and began running out of the woods. Grath wondered if the ugly brutes had sounded an alarm, just as his first arrow sailed through the air. (To be continued) by Niasen of The Conclave Sympathy for the Drow Once we dwelt under sun's light Just like our kin who live their still But our spirits wilder, we craved the fight And revelled in our deadly skill Clad in skin of ebon hue Crowned with hair of ivory-white We are most beautiful to view Imprisoned in eternal night Through raid and war our race grew proud Driven on by goddess cruel Wrapped in malice like a shroud The crack that flaws the perfect jewel With fear of us as common thought Elves, dwarves and men together stood Magic battles then we fought That drove us down from sun and wood The underdark we made our home We found we suit it, every way The endless warrens which we roam Hunting down unwary prey And now our goddess, crueler still Demands that our powerful take a test The failures of that divine will Then with a drider's form are blessed Time passes, still we can't forget What was done in ancient years The surface world shall be ours yet This, we pray, our goddess hears We did not choose life as we are With warlike ways and hardened hearts Born beneath a different star That gave our people killer's arts What we were given, we now use As all things in the world do Killing all things that we choose (Sorry if that includes you!);> So wonder not, when meeting Drow How we can be so merciless Our ancient hates from long ago We're still attempting to redress Mournbane Bregan D'Aerth Transformation of Diablo (Submitted by UDL Diablo) The spectre drifted through the night sky, headed back to the Castle of Bones. He had been prowling the realms, but not with the same intent that normally came with his hunts. Diablo felt something that evening, and instead of his normal appearance at the Devils Crossroads, he had instead stayed within the town of Neverwinter. The night was uneventful, only a few practice battles breaking the rather dull evening. Somewhat frustrated and bored, the spectre decided to return to the Castle of Bones and rest his undead spirit. As the Castle came into view, Diablo looked below him and noticed Ghoul prowling about the graveyard. Floating downward, the spectre decided to visit his pet and give him the KEF fingers he had cut from Merdel after their match in Southwall. Landing amidst the tombstones, the spectre gave out a howl that cut through the still, night air. Then he wandered about, waiting for Ghoul to answer his call. He had just found a decent resting place, to wait for Ghoul, when the stench of decay came to him. It was an overwhelming stench, and even the undead spectre had to turn away. The stench was followed by a flash of lightning, so bright, that the graveyard lit up as if the sun had just came out from behind a cloud. Turning to where the flash occurred, Diablo stood amazed. There, not more than fifty yards from him, stood the physical form of Myrkul. He had seen the god but once before, when Shurg had first killed him and Myrkul embraced his soul into the Un-Dead Lords. Now, here in front of him, in all his unholy magnificence, stood the God of Death. "Diablo, come before me my servant", Myrkul spoke to him. Diablo felt himself drawn towards the figure of his deity, unable to refuse the command that was just given. Diablo's only thought was that he was surely to be punished for his decision on a squire as of late. The spectre tried to resist, but the God of Death drew him closer with but his will. As he approached Old Lord Skull, Diablo lowered his head in submission to his lord. Then the spectre stood directly before the god whom he worshipped. Movement behind the God of Death caught Diablo's eyes. There, rising up from behind one of the tombstones was Slayer, the Arch Lich of the Un-Dead Lords. There was a smile on the Lich's face, and Diablo could only think that he was here to view the spectre's punishment. Myrkul raised his hand, and a force went through Diablo's body, a feeling of change overwhelmed him. He felt his form start to become solid, his body going through a major change. His hands became more like claws, the flames that were once his hair became long strands of mold, his body starting to take on the stench of a corpse. The whole transformation took but a moment, and when done, Myrkul stood above him and smiled. The Arch Lich, Slayer, had come and stood next to the God of Death, and he too was smiling. "You shall now be known as the Arch Wight, Diablo. You will now be Lord of the Graveyard Clan. Your service has been noted and now you reap your rewards", Slayer spoke and the God of Death continued to smile above him. Then as quickly as it had began, a flash of light erupted in front of Diablo and Myrkul and Slayer were gone. Diablo stood alone within the graveyard, a deserted place except for the Ghoul that was watching from a distance. He looked at his hands, or claws as they now had become, he felt the long green strands that he wore as hair. Diablo spent the rest of that night, wandering around the graveyard, as this would now be his home, not the room he had chosen in the Castle of Bones. This deserted place would bring life to an evil that the realms had never seen before, this was now Diablo's quest. A quest he looked forward to. A Priest's Lesson A Priest's Lesson (Submitted by SOL Priest) The young priest finished the fare that Striders wife had put before him on the table. The breakfast was exquisite, almost as much as the woman who had served it to him. He sat back afterward, relaxing before setting out to finish the training he needed to fulfill his position within the Soldiers of Light. He had made arrangements to meet one of his brothers in the sewers, so he dug into his pack and pulled out the maps to familiarize himself with the area that he would meet Brother Speed. With a friendly wave to Strider and his wife, the young priest stood from the table, put the pack over his back, and with map in hand left the inn to make his way down under the town of Neverwinter. The entrance to the sewers was easy to find, and the badge he had been given by Brother Epic proved it's worth as he made his way past the large iron golem that guarded the entrance. The sewers were dark and dank, so the young priest quickly struck a flint to a torch he carried and made his way through the filth that collected below the town of Neverwinter. On more than one occasion the young servant of Tempus found himself fleeing battles with the denizens of this foul smelling place. It was but a short time later that he found the area in which he was to meet Brother Speed. As he sat and waited in the cold chamber, he heard footsteps approach. Turning to the area of the noise, he saw a bold warrior standing at the chambers entrance. The warrior wore the colors of one of Neverwinters most powerful guilds. The young priest was a bit concerned as the guild was well known for it's evil intentions. Standing, the Soldier of Light gave a warm greeting to the warrior standing in the doorway. The warrior looked at the priest and seemed amused that one so early in training would make his way to this area of Neverwinters sewers. The two proceeded into a conversation that eventually led to an agreement that would allow the priest to train as the warrior searched the denizens for scrolls of power. The young priest was forced to make a vow that this warriors name would never be made known to anyone if he carried out his part of the bargain. Though he knew the warrior to be evil, the priest found truth in the warriors words, and with Brother Speed obviously waylaid by some other troubles, proceeded to train with the evil warrior. This was but the first test that Tempus was to lay before the priest this day. The training went well, as the warrior defeated monster after monster, and the priest gained much needed experience. The young priest also kept his word, turning over the scrolls that he found as each battle was complete. This went on for about an hour until the two were interrupted by some wicked laughter from the entrance to the chamber. The warrior turned and greeted another by name. Murrain the warrior had called him. This Murrain started to taunt the warrior for helping out a young priest of the Soldiers of Light. While they conversed, the priest sat down and took the pack off his back. Reaching inside, he removed the small statue of the white mare, Verios, and the black stallion, Derios. The ivory and ebony statues were held tightly in his hands as he sat in silent prayer while the two others talked amongst themselves. Their conversation lasted but a short time, when finally the warrior of the guild departed, leaving the young priest alone with Murrain. The newcomer walked into the chamber and looked at the young priest, the smile on his face barely masking the evil that lay behind. The priest stood and bowed to Murrain, acknowledging his power. Murrain began to question the young priest as to why he was in the sewers as well as to the nature of the two small statues that he carried. After many explanations, the young priest had answered all of Murrain's questions and also learned of Murrain's worship of the god, Loki. Though not a common deity worshipped in the Forgotten Realms, Loki was part of the priests study under the Temple of Tempus in Waterdeep. The two men exchanged ideas on their beliefs in each of their gods and finally Murrain offered to help the priest with the last battle he needed to be able to train once again. The battle started off with a surprise to the young priest. Murrain quickly held the priest fast with magic, as well as three of the cloud giants that they battled. Murrain then quickly dispatched the remaining creatures, leaving but the three giants and the young priest, all still held fast by Murrain's incantation. It was then that the young priest was robbed of his most precious gifts. Murrain walked over and took the two small statues from the priests pack, putting them in a small sack he carried at his waist. Looking the priest in the eyes, he laughed. "When you finish your training priest, come and find me to claim these once again, that is the will of my god, Loki", Murrain said to him, then dispelling the magic that held the priest, before fleeing out of the chamber. The young priest quickly dispatched the three giants and then searched for Murrain. But the lord and his treasure were no where to be found. Saddened at the loss of his holy symbols, the priest made his way from the sewers and back up to the streets of Neverwinter above. The young priest exited the sewers, blinding himself in the sunlight of the street above. It took but a few moments for his eyes to adjust once again, and the fresh smell of Neverwinter was a relief from the stench of the halls below. The priest then made his way quickly to the training hall to receive the rewards of his battles in the sewers below. The priest was pleased when the trainer announced his progress, for he had completed his clerical studies and would now begin his magical ones. Leaving the hall, he made his way quickly to Striders, wherein he ate a hearty lunch and met one of his sisters, Asp, who offered to take him to the town of Longsaddle to practice his magical training. The priest quickly accepted his sisters generosity to help and agreed to meet her at the inn in Longsaddle early that afternoon. Once again, gathering his supplies, he put the pack on his back and made off for the town of Longsaddle to meet his sister from the Soldiers of Light. The journey was uneventful with the exception of the many fights that the priest fled from during his travels. His only concern coming during his travels through the Lost Hills, as he had heard from many that the Un-dead Lords claimed this area as their domain. Later that afternoon he arrived at the inn in Longsaddle and as promised, Sister Asp was there waiting for him at a table near the bar. The two sat and enjoyed a cool drink as they talked about how the training would progress from this point on. With all the information, Sister Asp led the young priest to an area where for the remainder of the afternoon they battled many cloud giant shamans and hordes of griffins. The magical training came quickly to the young priest, and early that evening when Sister Asp bid him farewell, he had learned all that was necessary for him to complete his training on his own. Bidding her farewell, the priest headed off to finish his studies. With darkness falling on the land, the priest finished all he needed to learn and made his way to the training hall to select the last of the spells that came with the completion of the lessons. After the trip to the training hall was complete, the priest again strapped his pack over his back and began the journey back to Neverwinter. The trip was once again uneventful with the exception of the many battles he fled along the way. Reaching Neverwinter just before midnight, the priest was amazed at how many adventurers walked the small town's streets. Keeping this thought in the back of his mind, he made his way back to Striders Inn, where he was about to get a big surprise. As the young priest walked into the inn his eyes quickly locked on the figure of someone sitting at a table in the back. "Murrain", the priest said, walking to a table that sat next to the one he had met that morning. "So how goes the training priest", came Murrain's reply, his smile once again masking the evil that lay behind. He looked at the priest with eyes that were cold and hard. "My training is complete Murrain", the young priest answering the statement the evil lord had put forth. "I am now ready to battle thee for the return of my holy symbols", he continued on as he ordered a cold ale from Strider. As the two sat there, Brother Abysss walked into the inn, acknowledging the young priest and sitting at the table with him. He quickly listened to the tale of the meeting earlier that day between Murrain and the priest, and the loss of the two symbols, Verios and Derios. Brother Abysss quickly insulted the lord, Murrain, threatening him if he did not return the two statues. Murrain was taken back by the harsh words of Brother Abysss and turned once again to the young priest. "I would have given you your chance this evening, but since Abysss sees fit to insult me, I shall make thee wait till tomorrow priest", Murrain said as he stood from the table and made his way to the exit. The young priest watched him leave and could only think that this had to be part of the test that Tempus was putting him through. He then sat and had a pleasurable conversation with Brother Abysss for the remainder of the evening. As the last of the patrons left the tavern, the young priest made his way up the stairs to the room he had rented in Strider's. Going into his room, he quickly kneeled in prayer to Tempus, God of Battles, to bring about the quick recovery of his holy symbols. That night was one of restless sleep, as many times the young priest awoke in a cold sweat. The same dream kept coming to him over and over. He was in battle against the lord, Murrain, and each and every time, Tempus would appear riding Derios, the black stallion. This was a bad omen to the priest, for he knew when Tempus rode the stallion, he foretold defeat. Finally morning came and the priest awoke to the knock at his door, where once again Striders lovely wife had a fresh pot of hot coffee for him. The priest sat that morning, thinking over the dream of the night before, wondering what Tempus was trying to say to him. That is how he spent his morning, drinking coffee and going over the dream time after time. With the coming of the afternoon, the young priest could sit no longer. He packed up some items he had been given by the High Priest of Waterdeep and made his way out into the streets of Neverwinter. Once again, he was amazed at how many adventurers, young and old alike made their way through the streets of Neverwinter. The young priest kept himself busy, deciding to help out the most novice of adventurers, giving them weapons and armor to help with their endeavors. Preaching the blessings of Tempus to those he found in battle. Aiding when asked, and with each and every battle, the priest could only think about the night before. Yes, the dream still haunted him, not knowing what it meant. As he was helping one young warrior who had gotten himself in trouble with a flock of stirges, the young priest heard the voice of Murrain in his mind. "Meet me in the warehouse district young one, it is time for you to try and claim your trinkets", he had said. The priest, knowing that the time had come, quickly made his way to the warehouse district and whatever fate had in store for him. Murrain was where he had promised he would be, as the young priest walked into the deserted building within the warehouse district. Standing next to Murrain was a beautiful woman whom he introduced as Tyrssa, his beloved. The priest complemented the woman on her beauty and then prepared himself for the battle that was about to take place between him and Murrain. The battle was long and tough, with each warrior casting spell after spell at each other. Neither gaining an advantage for sometime. As he fought, the priest continued to think about the dream, Tempus riding the stallion. He fought on, till finally one of his protections wore off, and Murrain brought him down with a spell of lightning. As the young priest laid there, unconscious, another vision came to him, Tempus riding the white mare, Verios. The vision of victory. Then he came to, as Tyrssa stood over him, the last of her healing spells closing the last of the priests wounds. As he sat up, having been beaten, he thought about the vision he had just received. Why was Tempus riding the mare, he had just lost to the one known as Murrain, which acknowledged the dream of the night before. Murrain looked at the priest sitting there and walked over to him. "You fought well young priest, and with honor than many of your guild do not show. For this I return your trinkets to you", he spoke as Tyrssa handed him the sack that held the statues of Verios and Derios. Murrain then handed the sack to the priest, who took it with thanks being offered to Murrain. "Just let it be known priest, you now owe me a favor, whenever I call for it, whether in battle or not, you must repay", Murrain said. The young priest acknowledged the agreement, that a debt was now owed to Murrain. Murrain then bid the priest good-bye as he took Tyrssa's arm and walked from the building. As the priest sat there, he smiled, for he now understood the lesson. Tempus was chaotic, that was truth, but he was also neutral, not caring for either good or evil, just the battle, that was his domain. He foretold the defeat at Murrain's hands, but also foretold the lesson would be learned. Not in good or evil was glory to be found, but in battle, with whomever, whenever, battle was all that mattered to Tempus, for there he was Lord God. Soldiers Of Tedenon Part 3 - The Price Of Failure (Map at end) (Submitted by Whiiplash) Guards' eyes peered into the deepening gloom, minds elsewhere. They paced the tall, double wall that surrounded the quiet town of Tedenon, silent upon their leather boots. Horns dangled from their belts, to sound at the first sign of danger. None seemed to be forthcoming this night. The first watch retired for the night, and the second watch roused themselves for the simple work. They trudged across the top of the wall, occasionally dropping down to inspect something. Insects buzzed at their faces, and they absently waved them away. The gates had been shut at nightfall, and scouts, returning at regular intervals, were let in through a concealed door at the base of the wall. One guard, mind on other things, easily fell from the wall and landed on the forest floor, rolling to his feet. He scouted ahead, eyes searching the dark night (they were forbidden to light torches unless absolutely necessary) for the creature disturbing the silence. Soon, believing the creature gone, the guard returned to his post, signaling the ok sign to the others. Then chaos struck, quick and deadly as lightning. Dragons, black as a moonless midnight, thundered overhead, eyes searching for prey. They dove at guards, who struggled to sound war-horns. Common-folk fled from homes as the dragons screeched and dove, easily killing the guards and circling low over the chaotic city. Soldiers, the legion on standby inside the castle, shouted war cries and spread out, searching for enemies. Archers, green cloaks over silver chainmail and bows unslung and drawn, unleashed a torrent of arrows upon the dragons. A dragon, skewered in the eyes and neck by enchanted arrows, plummeted from the sky and scattered people fleeing on the ground. Red soldiers, the legion that had been on standby, battled with huge demons, red as fire. They stood a dozen feet tall and covered in red, leathery skin, and weilded curved blades forged in the fires of the underworld. Few of them there were, but the demons hacked through the walls and began cutting into Tedenon keep, eyes gleaming. Black Knights charged from the castle, met immediately by undead skeletons, battle arrayed and seemingly trained in combat. White Knights, War horses snorting and broadswords raised, charged out to battle the army of shuffling undead smashing the outer wall to peices. Soon wizards magic appeared, fireballs hurled from the castle or creatures summoned to fight. A great dragon, a deep red, launched from the castle wall, circling lower and scattering the much smaller blacks. Another dragon launched, this one a bright white, frost streaming from its opened jaws. The blacks soon were killed or driven off, the white and red thundering lower to attack the demons. The black knights struggled to destroy the regenerating skeletons, and white knights slowly demolished the army to the north. Catapults began to send rocks and fireballs screaming off into the distance, striking down undead when they crashed into their ranks. The red soldiers were decimated by the enraged demons who hacked through their numbers with the hell-spawned weapons, even the dragons had to stay a good distance from their deadly blades. The siege was almost defeated, but new enemies arose. Dark shadows they were, springing atop the walls and winging about, their dark forms knocking riders from horses (or toppling centuars) and sucking the very life from soldiers. They careened about Tedenon, even killing commoners as they fled. The demons were soon destroyed, or sent back to their own planes. The skeletons were smashed and stripped of possessions, making thjem easy targets for even unarmed commonfolk. The zombies and other undead were hacked to peices, and did not rise. Somehow the dragons were felled, and they fell like rocks from the sky just outside the city. All that remained of the enemy was the shadows. However, the black knights suffered from heavy losses, and the red soldiers decimated. The Green Archers had been clawed from the long talons or their flesh stripped away from the potent acid spewing from the black dragons' gaping maw, and none had survived. White Knights suffered few losses, and all of the wizards, although in need of rest, had survived. Scouts were deployed around the perimeter of the city, war horns at ready. And a council was called within the castle. "The enemy has struck, and hard. We suffer from grevious losses, and plans are in the making for an escape, throught the Ut'tulag, the lower chambers. Possessions must be gathered, and quickly! We must leave as soon as possible, for I fear another strike is imminent. This town has fallen, but not without a fight. We were bested, and now, although I loathe it, we must flee..." The commonfolk that had been smart enough to flee to the castle were gathered up. Many bristled with armor stolen from the blacksmith, and weilded weapons to match. Everyone still alive was gathered in the room below the dungeons. It smelled of sewage and looked worse. Somehow everyone was able to bear it wordlessly, and soon everyone was gathered. The black and white knights led the flight, their customary plate mail dropped for lighter leather. Behind them came wizards, their last magic expended in providing a steady stream of light that stretched to the far ends of any passage. Behind them trudged the wounded, a couple of surviving greens and a red soldier. At the rear stood Telagor, the only unscathed red soldier. He had remained inside the castle to guard the king (He felt cowardly for his deed, but had decided his place was by the king). Beside Telagor strode a spattering of black white knights, broadswords and spears ready. Soon, the common stonework of the castle fell away, and the group of fleeing, solemn faced, Tedenon people began what would be a long flight through dark, wet passages. "The Death Of Teramus" a poem by Dragon Dx Legends tell of a mage named Teramus an aspiring wizard with might but Poor, forgetful, careless Teramus Just couldnt get that fireball right so Legends did tell of poor teramus and his not so heroic demise for the damage done to his home town alone is most likely why he was never revived. HELPFUL HINT (Submitted by NOR Zif) Dancing....when fighting Beholders dancing decreases the chance that they can use gaze attacks. This is done by running up to each of the beholders, then stepping away, then moving back and attacking (fire shield works well with this technique)...though it doesn't work ALL the time...it certainly helps out ;-> Fighting First (Submitted by FF TEMPEST) It was not long ago that many looked into the unsanctioned guilds folder and saw the enormous folder of the Fighting First, the first army of NeverWinter. The eldest of the unsanctioneds since the colosing of the Border Legion, he FF was clearly to be the next guild to be sanctioned, and many thought that it was only a matter of a few weeks, possibly less than a month before it joined the most powerful guilds in the Realms. For those who look now, the FF has been in flux, and weak. The dreaded Finance Monster took from us both our long-time GM, FF Lancer, and our AGM, FF BRILIG, leaving us without the upper part of our leadership. It also worked it's evil deeds on some others of our members and officers, further weakining us. We have waited for the return of our brave comrades and leaders, but they have not come. The FF has survived, but not prospered as before. It was decided that the time had come to create a new Fighting First, and even as the FF's first birthday approached, the members of the remaining officer's core worked hard to prepare the future. FF River, Lieutenant in charge of Diplomacy, created the new bylaws of the FF, setting the foundation and preparing the members for what was to come. River was then foced to leave for at least a time by that vile monster's cousin, the demon of OOC. But we pressed on. And the time has come for the future. On Wendsday, July 12th, I, Tempest Birchbough, a Half-kender immigrant and former company clerk, become the fourth Commander-in-Cheif of the FF. I write this for purposes twofold. First, to let all in NeverWinter know that the FF now is rapidly moving into the future, on that shall carry us to our former heights and beyond, and Second, to let the evils of NeverWinter know that we are back now. Be prepared for the future, else you get squashed flat by it. General Tempest Birchbough, CinC, GM NeverWinter- We're in for a heat wave this week in NeverWinter. Maybe it should be winter. It seems as if the devil himself has belched. Now for my 3 day for cast: Saturday: Look for no breaks in the heat wave, High 105, Low 88 Sunday: Same outlook, High 103, Low 85 Monday: Possible rain as a could front descends from the spine of the world. 20% chance of rain, High 95, Low 76 Tyr Priest-Your roving weather man. (stay tuned to this regular column) <><><><><> <><><><><> 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. Sanctioned Guilds who send the most "news worthy" articles in each month will earn 3 Pearls to be credited to their Guild Account! <><><><><> <><><><><>