==========oOo========== NEVERWINTER NEWS Issue # 133 Week Ending 5-12-96 ==========oOo========== *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* FRONT PAGE *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Congratulations to Llucyana for winning last week's News of the Realm contest for her two-part installment entitled "Acquisition". Llucyana has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes). Keep up the good work! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> WWAI Official Winners from 4-18-96 First--Kh0lari--51 points--25 pearls, 4 free hours Second--47--Darkthane--20 pearls--3 hours Third--Zandrakkas--37--15 pearls and 2 hours (by roll-off tie over Sylphee) Random roll off--Sylverion--5 pearls -- NW Ulfius <><><><><> <><><><><> Location Hunt Winner!! -- 5/8 Tonight's winner of the Location Hunt was: Arouscher! Arouscher found the vats of freshly-caught fish tucked away in the Wharves. It smelled terrible in there, but he persevered and endured the smell just to win those lil pearls. :) -- NW Kel <><><><><> <><><><><> May Trivia May 7, 1996 __________ *** First Place - Gherkin II 24 points! *** ** Second Place - Dirk Dirty 23 points! ** * Third Place - Snaak 19 points! * Random Drawing Winner - Zanderkuld _____________________________________________________ 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 : ) <><><><><> <><><><><> Location Hunt Winner -- 5/10 3am ET The winner was.....Doh Steal.... Clue: "..as well as what appears to to be the remains of one of the cooks" Southwall 11,4 -- NW Ulfius <><><><><> <><><><><> *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* NEVERWINTER CALENDAR *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Keep an eye peeled for those Mini-Booths because they will appear when you least expect in different areas of the Realms! Can you be at the right place at the right time when the NW calls for a location? Keep your eyes and ears open for these events! Watch for the banners! <><><><><> <><><><><> May WWAI Announcement!!! When: Thursday, May 16th Time: 10 PM Eastern time Where:The Great Hall Tavern Come join NW Ember and NW Ulfius for the May edition of: <<>><<>> Who/What/Am/I <<>><<>> Thurs. May 16th at 10 pm ET in the Great Hall Tavern. Prizes: First Place: 25 Pearls + 4 hours Second Place: 20 Pearls + 3 hours Third Place: 15 Pearls + 2 hours Cya There! NW Ember and NW Ulfius <><><><><> <><><><><> New Player Tours: Join the following staff members for a tour of the Realm: May 14th *Tuesday 12:00 AM EST - with NW Triel. May 17th Friday 9:00 PM EST - with NW Thorn. May 18th Saturday 6:00 PM EST - with NW Garion. * Technically this is Wednesday midnight, but making it late Tuesday night makes it easier for folks to understand and plan to attend. ;> Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> Congratulations to Llucyana for winning last week's News of the Realm contest for the story "Acquisition". Llucyana has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes). Keep up the good work! ;D Nyveristen Chronicles - Part Two Arrival (submitted by: Nyveristen) As Nyveristen stepped away from Cragdyk's Arms and Armor, he headed for a nearby inn: Mataga's Inn. Upon entering the inn, he saw three beautiful elven women, whose skin was jet black. At first, he did not realize what these women were, and so he bowed before them, humbling himself. Then, when one turned to him, and spoke a language he could only guess was their native, he realized his error. Straigtening quickly, he glared at the women. "You are dark elves!" he spat at them, being careful to watch behind him. He paced slowly around, then made his way to the table. One of the three, and perhaps the most beautiful, turned to him, and spoke, "Yes, we are Drow, and, though you may think otherwise, we are not evil." A second, this one a young child, turned to him, and said, "It is the rivvin who are evil, instead, for they would hunt down children, and attack us, when we were alone!" A third, this one an odd drowess that he had never heard so much as tale of before, turned to him, and simply smiled wickedly. Quite taken aback at their reactions, Nyveristen took a seat, and started to question them about their race, and their ways. The first drowess, Mavralyn, told him that they were neither evil, nor good, and since they were causing no trouble, they were allowed to remain in the city openly, as guests, and were not to be harrassed by members of the populace. Apologizing for his mistake, Nyveristen fell completely for the vile beasts' lies. He spoke with them further, finding the name of the child to be Abbigayl, and then, another, seemingly more important drowess entered the Inn. This new drow, Phyrra, was cruel, and did not even try to hide the fact that she, like all the others, was purely evil. She spat at Nyveristen about their Goddess, and sacrificing him thereto. Feeling insulted, and enraged, Nyveristen rose against them. With a quick, overhanded stroke, Phyrra drew out a cruel-looking, snake-headed whip, and struck him once, across the chest. Reeling in pain, Nyveristen fled the Inn, knowing he was too weak to stand against them all, at the same time. As he fled, he did not notice that Phyrra had taken the remnants of blood on the fangs of one of her snake-heads, and had begun to use it in a spell. Within moments, a simulacrum of Nyveristen had been formed, except that it was a perveted form, and was twisted by dark magics so that it was a Drow. The Dark Nyveristen smiled with glee, knowing its task, as the complete, and willless servant of Phyrra.The Ballad of NWN (submitted by: Lrd RAZ0R) Neverwinter, always night. Should you enter, should you fight? Lurking evils, jumping fools. Hackers disregarding rules. Hours spent and battles won, Lives are spent, and quests begun. Watching over us, it seems: Those with wit and suits of green. Here's a place I'd like to stay, Make my world this holiday. In these realms I'd gladly be, If I had a choice, you see. Neverwinter, my delight Addicted am I? Just a mite. Leave you I to ponder here, While I jump the goodies, near. Lrd Razor MASK The Emerald Brooch (submitted by: Lake Mist) After fulfilling the Lifegiver quest...I went to my secret hiding place within Neverwinter...I had been gone too long...thieves had found it...ransacked...nothing left...Punt Thief...I saw his markings... Bitter...frustrated...I stormed around Neverwinter for awhile...then purchased a room at Mataga's Inn... I would get a good nights sleep...it had been a long day... I awoke the next morning...comtemplated what had happened...maybe this was a sign from the goddess Mielikki...after all, it is not natural for rangers to horde...with a smile I started the new day... I would need to find another ticket...so it seemed natural that my path led to Triboar...I was off...through Vilnask...then Crossergate...with a quick stop to slay a few Dracolichs...that would stir the blood... The the Lost Hills...had heard of the Emerald Brooch along the way...I entered the Lost Hills and made my way northeast...I followed the path as far east as I could...I had a decision to make...north or south... I headed north...after slaying some Owlbears and recovering a Jeweled Pendent...I roasted and made jerky with the help of a Fire Elemental...or what was left of it... Then I headed south...glancing around...I noticed a freshly broken branch...a secret passage...I followed a path to the northeast...as I turned...another secret passage... I moved...and noticed a Centaur peeking from the edge of the forest..."What do you want?"...nothing I proclaimed..."Rid these forest of the foul creatures...and I will help"... As he moved back into the forest...I moved away back on the path...I moved back the way I had come...just before turning west...I noticed some strange marks leaving the path...I entered... Snakes...I hate snakes...a quick fireball burned all but three...cold steel...slash...hack...and they too joined their kind... After a quick rest...fix and mem...I moved back to the path...hummm...turning, I noticed a path to the south...a dead end...or was it...foot prints...big prints...lion?... South through the brush of yet another secret passage...Manticore...fireball again...all but one were consumed in flames...rithing in their death throws...I closed...steel to body...it fell also... I fixed and mem'd...then traveled out of this dead end...turning, I traveled till a turn south... turning...I found a dead end...except...maybe...yes, another passage... This glade was filled with poisinous Spiders...another quickly cast fireball...all but two curled up in smoking black balls...these I rent with cold steel...I was beginning to think myself invincible... A third time I was able to rest...fix and mem...I traveled back to where I had met the Centaur...maybe he could tell me if there were more of these creatures... The Centaur trotted out into the open this time..."Many thanks...I will assist you as best I can...this forest has been cursed by a powerful sorceress...she lives somewhere underground...take this rope"... The Centaur returned to the forest as I turned to leave...back on the path I decided that I had not fully explored the path south of where I had met the spiders... As I neared the end and a corner...I saw a man's figure ahead...he must have heard me...he quickly disappeared from view... I followed him west and saw the path turned...I found a stout tree with a rope near it...worn and frayed, I tied the rope the Centaur had given me with it...then both to the tree...I took a step... Grasping the rope...and lowering myself through an opening in the ground...I found myself standing on a hard rock floor...this place had the look and smell of a dungeon...death played here... A quick look around...I followed the twisting turning corridor...Umber Hulks...Trolls...Minotaurs... this was not a nice place to be... A secret door on my right...my ranger sense warned me...danger...I passed this one by...another secret door on my left...this room revealed an old storage area... In the far corner of this room...yet another secret door...an unoccupied barracks...that was good...moving back to the corridor...I again moved southward... Cell doors...I moved to the one farthest west and opened that door...giants chained to the walls...my first instinct was to run...I managed to free them tho..."Thank you...we shall help if we can...to remove this debt"... They moved off...I went to the next door east...my senses warned me to leave this one alone also...south to the next door...dwarves...as they fled past me..."Thanks...we'll find our own way out"... Ogre prisoners...they attacked me as I tried to free them...unprepared...it was not easy...they were weak from captivity and fell quickly... The last cell was the worst...dwarves...elves...humans...hanging like slabs of owlbear...I freed them as quickly as possible...they left as well as possible...one stayed behind... "I am Borth Jhandelspar...a guide from Triboar...there are two exits from down here...I know one is at the end of this hall south...a trap...search carefully"... As I moved out into the corridor and turned south...my hand touched the east wall...something was there...a secret door...through this door...search carefully...I tuned in my search abilities... Moving...a door appeared to my right...as I stepped through it...it closed and locked behind me...resting a second...tuning out search...a door to the left... As I opened the door and entered...a small army...two Mammoths, Goblins and Zhentil Fighters...and a Fire Giant Shaman...cloudkill...two fireballs...all but the shaman fell...spells and cold steel... I was glad I had an Amulet of Health...it was what saved me that time...this room had a door facing west...the next room was uneventful...with a door on the west wall... My senses went off again...I prepped for the worse...I opened the door and entered...Trolls...Golems...and an Evil Mage...the man I had seen on the path in Triboar... "I don't know how you got here...but we'll go ahead and take you now...Kracken victory"...he cast a spell...as it hit me...20 hp...it bounced off the wall...20 hp again...must have been a lighning bolt... A quick cloudkill over a Troll, the mage and the two Golems...fireball took out the other Trolls...as the mage fell...the Golems unleashed on me...I used the amulet...partially healed... Fist to body...steel to whatever it was I was hitting...earth?...stone?...stone...a glancing blow...the Golems finally fell...crushed stone littering the floor... I rummaged around the room...nothing...no other doors...passages...wait...what had Borth Jhandelspar said...search well...I again tuned in my search abilities... A portal...I stepped through it...forest...fresh air...I checked my bearings...looked around...I was back in Triboar...the path lead northwest...as it turned...something dead... I stopped...sniffed the air...decay...rot...death...there must be a Dracolich near...I prepped...used cold shield...mirror image...stepped east... It was there...one Dracolich...alone...I looked to make sure...unleashed a fireball...the Dracolich advanced...it touched my cold shield...reeled as if in pain...and died...or at least quit moving... I made a quick search...there it was...the Emerald Brooch...dragons and their gems and jewels...I'll never understand the attraction...when I stood up to leave...my head spun...the West Bridge gate... Moving north...I went back to the Triboar Inn...frenzy...food...frenzy...rest...I would travel to Neverwinter on the morrow...see what Lord Nasher would give in reward...nite all...travel well...Zindio Diary (submitted by: Zindio) 4Mayo96 These few notes about this evenings disasterous results. Xvandor met me at the vaults, my treasures I did turn over to him and in turn he deposited them in the Guild's vault, to be used for the good of the citizendry. A +3 Bo stick he gave me to use; a mistake of the grandest proportions. The Bo stick is not a weapon for rangers. An attempt was made to take me to Crossergate but after two hours of fighting our way down the road I was broke, bloodied, and had lost all weapons but what I was using. I finally made it to The Red Mage Inn and will rest here and heal. 5Mayo96 Early in the dawn did I start out by meself on the road to Crossergate. My wepon of choice this day are a shield,+3leather armor, and a trident. Good choice, I made it into Crossergate by meself, Maybe this evening I can help rather than impede my friend Xvandor. The threads that link us to this world are frayed and missed my appointment with Xvandor. Fought through Vilnast back to Lord Nashers Palace. Put meself in Training and am now at level 3. 6May096 Patrolled the wharves today,found giant toads attacking traverlers. Learned how to sweep and wiped them out. One adventurer was peeved that I din't ask before joining fight. Perhaps he doesn't understand I must act immediately, without thought to lawful order or law of chaos to achieve and promote good. Crocs eating citizens is not good. Completed more training today, am now at level 4. Sent an official application to The Protectorate today for Guild membership. Will meet Xvandor on the 11th, perhaps wew can make it into Crossergate this time.Pentor's Quest (submitted by: ABK Pentor) At the temple of Helm, god of guardians, a lone figure kneels in a far corner. Fully dressed in black, he prays silently to his god. "Why has it come to this? Why?" tears roll down Pentor's cheeks as he tries to hold them back. "Forgive me my lord" Pentor cries aloud, choking and sobbing, the tears flowing freely now. "Why couldn't there be another way? Why must I leave my friends? Why does it have to end?" Pentor recalls all that has happened to him in his two months at the keep... Sir Pentor, a young, bold man wanders down the road to Port LLast. As he travels, he comes across a figure dressed in red and black. The man is fighting off a hoard of rats and boars. Sir Pentor pulls out his longbow and starts to aid the man. When all of the vermin have fallen, the man speaks. "Thank you kind sir. I am in a hurry and need to get back to Neverwinter to meet my friend. I thank you for speeding me along. Me name is Lord. I am a devoted member of ABK."says the man. "You are welcome, my name is Pentor, Sir Pentor. May I ask what ABK is?" Pentor replies. "The Army of Blood Keep!", Lord yells as he pulls out his sword "How does one become a member of this army?", Pentor inquires. "I am off to see Saint, he is our recruiter, he will help you. Please come with me.", Lord says, sheathing his word. Pentor was glad to be a member of ABK now. He felt accepted and powerful. He was walking through the keep when the door burst open and an impressive figure strode into the room. "BLACK KEEP??? WHAT IS BLACK KEEP???"yelled the man. Garath was his name. Pentor could tell it was Commander Garath just from his presence. "I'm sorry m'lord. I meant no offense to the keep." Pentor managed to whisper out. He was terrified. Garath scowled at Pentor and then stormed out of the room. Pentor was racing through the streets. He had to find Saint. He somehow had to convince his friend to stay. Pentor and Drixxt came out of the hall, dressed in their new ABK armor. Luke was there, impressive as ever. Pentor admired Luke. He was everything Pentor hoped to be someday. "Just stay back and let me handle this," said Luke. Pentor was anxious to prove that he was strong and paid no heed to Luke. He stepped forward just as Luke finished his spell. The air around Pentor seem to suck the life out of him. Pentor slowly crept into the keep, careful not to let his burnt and broken body be seen by his brothers. His new power had failed him as he lightning bolted himself seven times. Pentor walked side by side with Valeran. The two rangers looked almost like brothers. Over the last week the two had become good friends. Suddenly, three large Dracoliches appeared around the corner. Pentor and Valeran exchanged smiles and then rushed forward to attack. ... Pentor came back to the present. The temple floor was cold and hard, but Pentor did not notice. He gathered up his courage and said a final prayer to Helm to aid him. Then Pentor left the temple. Blood and Psyko, his recruit, were waiting for him. Pentor handed a bag to Psyko, "give this to Duke please." and Psyko was off. "Come Blood, you will witness what is to come." Pentor walked down the road with Blood. He found who he was looking for after a few minutes on the dusty roads. Pentor saw a rather large looking cyborg with a strange glow in his eyes. "Honor?" Pentor thought silently. "Not from a Mech though." Pentor shrugged and walked up to his foe. "I hereby challenge you to mortal combat, do you accept, or dishonor yourself.?" Pentor challenged boldly. "I accept your challenge, but my honor is the same, with or without your challenge." Mech Aztek replied codly. The trio set off. When they reached the hills, Blood handed Pentor his staff and wished him luck. Aztek pulled out his staff and the contest began. It was a furious combat. Both combatants trying to defeat the others magical defenses. Pentor was showing signs of fatigue, but Aztek stayed strong. The punishment was great for Pentor, he fought to the last, but fell at the hands of Aztek, and at the mercy of Helm. Aztek wiped his sword, and saluted the brave man he had killed. Then he walked off into the woods. Blood rushed over to his friend and tried to heal him. But, alas, Pentor had been taken by Helm. Blood opened the note that he had been given by Pentor. He had been instructed to open it after the fight had been ended. It read... With that, Blood folded up the letter and put it back in his pocket. Just then, Psyko rode up in a wagon.... He had been given instructions by Pentor to help blood with his possesions and body. Together the two loaded the body into the wagon and headed for home. Pentor had seen the look of sadness on Blood and Psyko's faces. He had also seen the look of honor upon the face of Aztek. Pentor realized in his last moments as his soul drifted towards Myrkul's realm, that Mechs and ABKs were similar. The honor that the two had, formed a bond between the two guilds. The honor of them both, was what kept them fighting. The sacred value, honor, was so important, that it blinded the two of their similarities. Helm had heard the prayers of his follower and observed the nights events. He was impressed at the sincerity of the man and his final moments of pure wisdom. Before Pentor had reached the afterlife, Helm saved him and brought him before the god. "YOU HAVE SHOWN GREAT COURAGE AND WISDOM TODAY. FOR THIS YOU SHALL BE REWARDED. YOUR DESTINY IS NOT TO DIE AT THE HANDS OF YOUR ENEMY. YOU SHALL WANDER THE REALMS AS A SPIRIT UNTILL THE TIME HAS COME FOR YOU TO RETURN TO YOUR BROTHERS. WHEN THIS TIME ARRIVES, YOU SHALL BE REBORN AGAIN AND FULFILL YOUR DESTINY." Said Helm in the full glory of his godness. And so it was, Pentor was to wander the realms until he could find a way to return to his brothers. So off he went, back to the keep, to search, and search, and search. He also wished to see his funeral, but by doing so, he would lose his spirit, and fall to the underworld. He could only have faith in his friend, Tjaden. ABK PentorFriend's Help (submitted by: LucasKhan) When I first started off in Neverwinter I was confused. So many places to go and things to do. I was a ill-equiped, undertrained and new to the world. Then I found the secret to getting by in Neverwinter - Friends. The first kind soul to help me did a noble thing. He gave me a magic Battle Axe out of the Kindness of his heart. This weapon is a dear friend in battle and as become my "friend to lean on". I next met a man who was helping me and another adventurer out. He took me to his vault and gave me the greatest set of armor I could have. This helped me and got me out of my first hole:ill-equipped. I was now of an extremely low level, and had great weapons. The next friend helped me in an even better way. He showed me around. He took me under his wing and helped me get experience. He showed me where to go and how to get around and where to go. He gave me great tips. He showed me where to get some experience and how to train. I now am not exactly the greatest adventurer, but I'm working on it. So if I could tell any of you new adventurers one thing, it would have to be, get friends. It will help you out to an extent you couldn't imagine. Also remember how much you were helped as a newbie and return the favor to another kid. Remember, what goes around comes around.The First Wave - Part 1 (submitted by: DrkArcdRep) The scouting party prepared itself. They had been summoned, all seven of them, early that morning, to do business as normal, it had seemed. Now, however, they had been given special instructions, and had been preparing for the trip to Neverwinter, out on the Sword Coast. They were to be led by a young recruit to the Dar'Cade, who was showing surprising promise. He was one of several new recruits from a land that was dominated by mages. The group did not know his name, and, normally would not care, except in this case, they also knew he would be doing something that had not been done in many years. They were the advance scouting party for the Darke Arcade, an infamous ring of smugglers, slavers, pirates, and other such "Businessmen". They were to travel to Neverwinter, and report back the findings made there. For one, they were to capture five to ten of the most able bodied citizens of Neverwinter, and to bring them back to the main base, deep under the ground near Tantras. They were also, after the initial scouting was done, to build a keep somewhere in Neverwinter, and to fortify it. They were to proceed, under the leadership of this young Dar'Cade leader, to build a Neverwinter branch of their infamous organization. The men looked around nervously, knowing that they would have to leave soon, but, none of them had yet to ask the young man his name. Turning to them, and staring at them with eyes that showed absolutely no emotion, he spoke coldly to them. "If you are wondering who I am, know this: I am your leader. Under me, you shall fight to your utmost ability, even to the point of your deaths, if it comes to that. Beside me, you shall help to build a new future for the Darke Arcade. When we have finished here, I shall be made General of the fort, and the seven of you shall be my lieutenants," the dark one said as he turned to board the small boat. Turning to each other, the group of seven smiled, knowing that they would never serve under a more worthy leader. They turned to board the boat, and began the long trip to Neverwinter...Dwarven Lullaby (submitted by: AeKheled) DWARVEN LULLABYE Tha sky be's dark an' tha 'ills are wite As tha storm king speeds frum tha nort' dis noche.. An' dis tha song tha storm king sings... As o'er tha werld 'is cloak he flings... "sleep, sleep, wee bairn, sleep" 'e rustles 'is wings an' gruffly sing's "sleep, wee bairn, sleep" Wit'in tha mountain side a gem 'id in tha foot of' tha storm kings 'ome.. tha mount 'overs o'er tha tremblin t'ing an' onlee tha gem cin 'ear 'im sing... "sleep, sleep, wee bairn, sleep" Wots ta fear in tha arm's o' tha king? "sleep, wee bairn, sleep" As tha storm king sin' 'is battle fites Tha gem, a lass!, sleeps well tanoche. Wee kin, I pray ye days be blest Weary dwarven bairn... kin, be's at rest. "sleep, sleep, wee bairn, sleep" Too soon will come tha time o' test! "sleep, Pereedot, sleep" AeKheled Goldsmith Teen Angel o' Axepeak Dwarven Glassblower The Homestead (submitted by: Sir Auggie) Dragonflyr and Augustus of KORT ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The sounds of stoneworking and construction had rung across the expanse of the east woods for several days now... The most skilled dwarven craftsmen were seen entering the fenced area each daybreak in their usual raucous manner - awakening the native wildlife as they tromp heavily down the path. Alongside them a team of stout ponies pulls huge loads of stone blocks. When asked, they say nothing about what they build - and they guard the entrances to the fenced worksight around the clock. On the seventh morning a spire is raised to visibility above the treeline around the area. A flagpole extends from its peak. At a quarter past midday, the hammers fall silent. One by one, lively sparrows neturn to their nearby perches and twitter musically as they chat curiously among themselves. A horn blows in the distance and the sound of wagon wheels and horses hooves approaches. The gates open silently as the wagons roll in. Through the afternoon and into the night voices of young women and men float across the wooded hills as they prepare for the arrival of their Lady and Sire. At dawn of the next morn, a fanfare of horns awakens the forests.. A flag is seen rising atop the spire raised the day before. As it unfurls in the breeze it is seen to be the purple and gold banner of KORT...and who should come riding up the path but Dragonflyr and Augustus... Their horses and armor adorned in full pagentry colors. They pause before the gate. Augustus sits back in his saddle and surveys the surrounding countryside. He takes a deep breath of the fresh morning air and turns to Dragonflyr... "My Love.. this new home outside the city will give us just the privacy we need. It's what I'd always hoped for.." She smiles back, "Oh yes ! It'll be nice to settle down a bit as you get older milove..." :::she giggles::: "Hrumpf.." Augustus feigns annoyance.. "If I remember milady, the clock ticks for the both of us ;> 'Tis one thing we'll do together, like it or not... " He leans to kiss her.. and at the same time give her a good tickle.. ;> She nearly topples from her steed before he pulls her close... "Oh milady.. you bring such joy to my life.. and you have my loyal heart.. ((( ))) They turn and enter the gate to their new homestead smiling happily. 5-1-96 Augustus and DragonflyrUpstarts with Odd Parts (submitted by: MrBill888) A cry arose throughout the lands A deed's been done by dastardly hands The stench is great throughout the city And the roads and streets are no longer pretty Flies are climbing into the sky And the odor brings tears to every eye For trash is strewn near everywhere For the garbage bins are no longer there A hue and cry rose to the heavens For next we started missing ovens Why the odd theft of these certain things? An aura of oddness throughout this rings.. A discussion was held at OGS And how to deal with this spectacular mess For the wooden ale keg in the Golden Tap Was also gone, "Hey we're sick of this crap" We convened the council to discuss the specifics On this heinous plot that's brought forth the horrifics That has caused the pestilence to become so great And to stop this theft before it is too late Our scouts were sent to east and west And from north to south, they would not rest When they finally returned they looked haggard indeed With the clue to this puzzle of larcenous greed I said, "Dear friends please, won't you gather and sit down?" "For you won't believe what we've found outside town" They wondered if our scouts had found something so fell As to frighten the denizens from the darkest deep hell But my countenance changed when I started to speak And "sit" now made sense for their knees soon grew weak "I've found where the flower pots, trash cans and each stove And spittoons are all going, they're in the MECH treasure trove" "They are using them to built up their strange metal men And the stuff that they use is "whatever they can" They look quite amusing with a barrel for a body And these guys can't be dangerous, they're just being naughty" "For when one doth see the incredible junk It's hard not to laugh at each poorly built hunk Their members are made from our cans and our bins So we must forgive them for their larcenous sins" How can we fight this menage of stolen goods Who use stoves for their bodies and spittoons for their hoods One had a rain gutter he used for an arm The laughter alone could all cause us great harm When you see their War Master with a bed bucket head I swear they won't kill us, it'll be the laughter instead As they creak and they spin round the MECH assembly bay It was so sad and pathetic, there is little to say But Maethln responded, "Hey we can't let this lie, Without our trash bins, HEY our cities a sty" "And I can't bake more cookies" said Lady Mershu For which I silently smiled, just between me and you "And Zam's been insulted," said Varen with glee "By a guy who's head's made from what used to hold pee" With that there was laughter and guffaws from one and all Oh, HOW THE WALLS SHOOK in the OGS hall Let's wait for a little before we fight these upstarts Whose bodies are made from trash barrels and old parts For who wants for fight foes you can't see face to face When we're laughing and reeling all over the place.. Mr.Bill888 OGS Warrior Poet Changing Dawn (submitted by: Morngrym) There are scars across this land in which we live As the titanic battles have been fought One area, then another over the years Taken and lost, reclaimed again Upon the the shoulders of bold women and men. The struggle shall not end with you and me Though experienced and worn and old we may be Legends are created and the makers are lost Swept away in the tide...of our vast ocean This vision is not so different than what has already been. I saw the sun rise today over the walls of Neverwinter A sight that has warmed my heart countless times In the shadow of a era when little is certain So many forces now in this whirlwind storm Every disposition and weakness and strength of form. But the children still play here and the workers carry on They are hearty souls who were made to endure The folly of our greatness and every repercussion For the purpose is distinct and the slate often clean In the threads of tales and things they've seen. As so it goes as each season passes before us Blades and armor crumble into rust Whiles others are forged in the fires of combat The ancient Knights remain as they have always been Protecting this rugged land...and seeking salvation. Morngrym Verigost Baron-Knight Bard of KORT! Nighttime in Neverwinter (submitted by: OMM Spunky) Twas night time in Neverwinter and all through the town not a creature was fighting no one typed a frown. Everyone was excited, so they left out their gem In hopes they would get a magic Item. When out of the castle came a great big boom everything was in panic, all thought it was their doom. When out of the sewers...What can it be? It is the hero of all, NW Snowie. Everyone knew she liked this online game. Then she called to each helper by name. On Icarus, on Vorpal, on Baldor, and Cosmic On Amaya, on Sparkle, on Tempus, and Mystek Then they shot to the sky like a big super-ball To help and protect Neverwinter and all. ~~~OMM Spunky~~~ Darkstar The Coming Storm - Part VII (submitted by: FrankSense) Even though it was early evening and the stars were shining I knew we were headed for my old familiar boyhood landmark. It was way off in the distance yet, but I knew the signs well. It was a place I could run to in a day. Run too, because that is exactly what I did. I ran. I would begin to run and would not stop. I just loved to run, to feel the earth turn beneath my feet. It was exhilarating. It was great to feel the air push back my hair, to watch the animals and learn what the land would teach me from day to day. I hadn't run like that for almost seventeen years. That last time I ran, I ran away . . .away from everything, from home. I looked at Pip. In the early evening moonglow on his face I detected regained confidence. He was glad to see it too. He looked more comfortable, like he had found something to reassure him. He was familiar with the tree! This was his territory! We must be close to where we are going. We headed for Druid's Tree, a mammoth lonely tree on top of the largest hill for miles. Its trunk is huge, taking twenty people hand-in-hand to circle the base. It is well over 1500 hundred years old. As far as any one knows it has always been there. Some say it marks the ancient edge of Neverwinter Woods and will not die until the woods return. Its gnarly roots and rough graybrown bark give it a weathered yet authoritative appearance, one to respect lest its branches reach down and cuff you, or worse. This was my territory. This was a place I knew very well. I understood now why we had been trimmed to a group of two, an appropriate size for journeying through here. Larger groups of travelers should never camp around here without at least a double watch. It is advisable that fires be doused, or their glow hidden lest the light bring death from many miles. It took us another hour and a half to reach the summit of the hill. It wasn't really a hill than just a place where everything else around on three sides sloped down and away. The plateau we had been walking over finally gave way to valleys and lesser hills to the south and west. We had been walking directly south away from the Woods across the flat grassy fields to where the tree grew. In the daytime you could see a glimmering off the sea to the west, and maybe, if the air was really clear some ruined towers far to the south. You could climb the huge tree to get a super view but it wasn't totally necessary, only if you wanted to look due east. There the land stayed more even in elevation and you couldn't see as far. As far? Forty to eighty miles was fine enough. Being able to see that far, to see what is coming, gives one a sense of power. I always felt that special sense here. Still, because it is so wide open, precautions needed to be taken not to be seen, unless you didn't mind company. As we approached the moonlit silvery-blue leaves of the tree I noticed Pip give a quick little sign with his hand. It was a Druidic warding sign like one I used from my youth. I turned to Pip and queried, "You seem to know this place. Do you know its name?" "Yes, I have been here some," he responded looking westward into the stars. "I know it as Druid's Tree, but most call it Devil's Ridge." He paused, then added, "You been here before?" "I'm familiar enough to know some of the locals call this Druid's Tree, but those who don't know any better use other names. Sometimes Sentinel Ridge is used too." I continued for some unknown reason, perhaps to impress the lad. "A famous traveler I know says some used to call this area the Western Gateway to the Dessarin, but now it is commonly called the Lost Hills." "That's what I've heard," responded Pip. "But I've not ever been lost around here," he laughed. "You know this is my territory don't you?" He paused, raising his eyebrow at me. "Well, it doesn't matter. We'll be home soon and you can head back to Neverwinter." Pip ran over to the tree and began climbing it with an ease of familiarity. "Graymantle, you're the experienced traveler. What should we do from here? Rest, or go on?" He had managed to deftly prop himself into one of the lower viewing points in the tree. "Let us take a break here, but set ourselves up to arrive at your home tomorrow," I began. "That will mean we have some distance to go yet tonight, doesn't it?" I asked. "You're correct, of course, sir," he responded, "but first, why don't you join me up here and teach me what you can about what can be seen from here. My folks never really say much when we're here." I found myself climbing the huge old tree. The barkscent, and touch of the worn lower limbs brought a flood of memories back to me. Handholds and niches were where I remembered them. I felt strangely relieved to be in the arms of the old druid once again. His branches soon parted to give me a panoramic view of the moonlit plane beyond. The tree welcomed me home, like a father welcoming a returning son. Pip listened. "I've been here and watched storms materialize from blue sky. Even in summer this land is known to have sudden storms and blizzards. To the southeast weather may imperil adventurers making them get lost in the endless meadows and hills. There are tales of entire valleys and keeps hidden away from the knowledge of humans. There are also known ruins. Most have been stripped bare of anything that can easily be carried off by raiding orcs. Now most ruins are little more than heaps of stone, or graves and cellars largely hidden by the grass." "To the south, a day and a half run or so, would be Phandalin, or at least what used to be Phandalin. It is located on an old road that runs northeast from the High Road, which follows the coast running south from Neverwinter to Waterdeep. Sometimes you can envision pieces of the old road from here, but its probably just the way the grass is waving in the breeze. The old road used to go all the way to Triboar and connect to the Long Road. (It also leads to Waterdeep.) But the old road long ago faded away into a mere trail and has even disappeared for great stretches. The orcs had paid human mages to work powerful magic to destroy the villages along the route and even bury the road itself to try to secure the area once they had conquered it. The far eastern end of the road is the trail that is still used that leads into Triboar. Phandalin had been an important farming center before the orcs came some 400 years ago. When they were driven out, the village was left largely in ruins, and it remains as we see it today. No one lives there now but monsters, though passing hunters and rangers often camp in one of the more secure buildings. It has three deep wells that can still be used." "The orc attacks also forced gnomes and dwarves to abandon a mountain delve near Phandalin where they were mining mithral together. Their last lode was called Wavecho Cave because they say the roll and boom of waves beating on the Sword Coast shore could be heard in the natural cavern. Rich stores of mithral and magical items of gnomish and dwarven make were enchanted in Wavecho by human mages allied with other races. Those enchanted items are said to still lie in the caves and delvings. When the orcs attacked Wavecho in force there was a spell battle between the defending mages and the wizards hired by the orcs. The land was changed. The ceilings of many caverns and chambers collapsed, and the very location of Wavecho was lost. There have always been rumors of rich treasures lost in the fighting in the area that is just waiting for a lucky or persistent venturer to find it." I motioned to Pip to follow me to a different perch. I went ever higher to eventually find a spot which gave an amazing view towards the east and southeast. Pip did not say a word but was enthralled by my tutoring. I knew the moonlight did not do justice to the daytime view, yet it was more than bright enough to support my information. I continued. "To the east and southeast are endless hills and meadowlands. There are many small villages of only a dozen or so houses. Many are nestled in close to the edge of neverwinter Woods. The farms grow crops to feed themselves, and to trade with any travelers who may come their way. Travelers are usually skirting the forest between the Coast and the Interior, following the safest paths and not venturing too far south. Adjoining farms are separated by cartpaths or trails like we have been following since leaving Thundertree. They are largely self-sufficient, needing only to purchase linens and finished clothing from peddlers." "They need to protect themselves from trolls and brigands who lurk in the hills south and away from the edge of the forest. At night, the farmers take turns keeping watch from the rooftops of their homes. They arm themselves with scythes, daggers, swords, and crossbows. They are known as excellent shots, the local lads learning to shoot bow and use the sling almost before learning to walk. Most clusters don't even have names but may be known for their local specialty, such as a smithy's place, experienced carpenters, wagon repair, or crossbow makers. They make terrible beer but produce quality gin from a variety of local berries to get them through the harsh winter days." "Pip, have you heard of the Place of the Unicorn?" I asked. I continued climbing higher. Pip followed quietly. I found an old favorite southern viewpoint, better than the previous one, and the lad nestled in for more. "A lot of travelers look for it. It is farther south, east of Leilon and can only be found at night. The wizards of the Coast believe that it lies in another dimension, reached only by a Moongate, a magical gate that operates only in moonlight. The Place is Sacred to Lurue, the unicorn of the Beast Cult. It is a stand of trees whose leaves are brilliant blue, surrounding a bluegrass meadow. Beings who rest therein are healed of all diseases, poisons, curses, and insanity. Unicorns may also be healed of physical damage. Beings who have no faith or are wavering in their beliefs often see Lurue herself in the trees, and their reaction may reshape their lives. On special nights, if you look just right, you can catch a glint of blue that's not moonlight." We both stood there turned southward, thinking about what I just said. The second moon began to rise over the tops of the woods at our back. We watched as a new shade of moonlight blue traveled from the south horizon towards us at an amazing speed. In just seconds the moonlight had changed to be much brighter. An eerie shadow of the tree reached out towards the southwest for miles. "Wow, a double moonlit night! Spectacular!" said Pip. "Yes, it looks like we may have a double full moon tomorrow, the two largest ones. That doesn't happen too often," I added. The Promise Land (submitted by: KEF Irish) Sien stood in a clearing in the woods that over looked a large estate of land. The grass was emerald green and the trees that surrounded the estate were strong oaks. This was his dream, what he had fought for. Sien spent every gold piece he had for this land and now he could begin his work. As Sien grinned at the beauty of the sight he heard a twig break and within a second his sword was out. " Sien its only me," Fien screamed," put your sword away." " Ah lad, how is it my kid brother finds me in this place?" asked Sien. " I , well I tried to track you, actually I plum ran into you after I got lost." grinned Fien. " Well since your here come look at our future my brother, many years I have worked for this chance." Sien gestured for Fien to come forward. Fien cam forward to look at the scenic area and was in awe. " What is it?" " Fien, I ventured for years helping others and acquiring vast treasures. Never was my goal to become rice, always I had others on my mind. I spent all I gathered on this land before us. There is more land than we need, which you probably noticed. In the center will be a enormous keep. And it will house hundreds of families" "What families, who , brother I am lost in your dream" Fien replies puzzled. " Brother, after i was forced to leave you and mother I lived without a home, not knowing where my next meal would come from. Then I was befriended by the Knights of the Eternal Flame. They seasoned me into a strong knight, and I gained oppurtunities I never had before. And from the gold I gained I planned on helping all those that I could. The keep my brother will house hundreds of families that are less fortunate. The land will be theirs to use, the timber theirs to cut, and the wealth will gained them the opportunity to survive on their own. This is not charity, they will work for a wage and I shall provide the materials. As years pass families will grow strong and leave while new families come to begin. Those wishing to follow the path of the flame can begin here, there will be great need to defend this land fron bandits and barbarians. Brother, will you aid me in this quest?" "Aye Sien, tis a noble and powerful plan", Fien Answered. Sien walked down to the center of his dream while Fien remained atop the hill still in awe of what he has seen. ", but Sien, there should be a woman to share this dream. You cannot live all closed up forever" Fien whispered to himself as he wondered how long his brother could survive without ever feeling loved.Ilhar's Day, One Drow's Perspective (submitted by: ShaperDef) Shaper had learned a lot from the rivvin mage he had captured from Llast harbor. He had planned on killing the mage as soon as he was outside the town but then the mage started to plea for his life. He did not promise anything or offer anything to Shaper. He just kept repeating over and over again that he should be allowed to live until after Mothers day. This confused Shaper, and peaked his interest. He would have to question this mage to find out more of this strange custom called Mother's day. At first the questioning was difficult, the mage kept talking about love. A concept the young drow did not understand. After some probing Shaper looked at the Mage and asked. "Ye mean to honor or show respect to one's Ilhar?" "Yes" replied the mage a look of relief on his face, "if Ilhar means mother, yes to honor or show respect." Shaper sighed finally understanding what the mage meant. "So rivvin your kind does know how to show proper respect. I shall honor your words and honor your Mother's day." A look of relief flooded the face of the mage, then Shaper turned quickly his Death lance flashing out quicker than the eye could follow relieving the mage of his pathetic existence. Shaper turned and started to walk back to Dur'Eben. Stopping a few meters away he turned and cast a fire ball destroying the headless body of the mage. Looking down at the mages head in his hands he thought "xas you will be a fine gift for my Ilhar, I thank you for your insight on this special day." Laughing, he continued his journey home. Shaper entered a cave just outside the city. Here he started to prepare his gift for his Ilhar. He cleaned the skull of the mage and removed the Crystal globe he had found in the Dragons horde. He opened his spell book and started to prepare his spells. He secured the Globe in the skull and cut his arms letting the blood flow unto the Crystal, chanting a spell the crystal absorbed the blood. He then fastened some gold carved spiders unto the base. Then he carved in the runes of Dur'Eben thus completing the sequence to ensure that only a Nobel of Dur'Eben could use the item. Smiling to himself he wrapped the item in a cloak and continued his journey. Shaper walked through the gates of Dur'Eben and levitated up to the upper floor. Approaching his Ilhar's room he knocked. The door swung open and his Ilhar's voice responded "Enter Shaper you are late." Shaper kneeled and greeted his Ilhar "Vendui' Malla' Ihalr I bring ye a gift on this Ilhar's day". Arielana looked at Shaper a bit confused "Ilhar's day what are ye talking about Shaper?" Shaper quickly explained the rivvin custom of honoring ones Ilhar's on one given day a year. Quickly adding that he always honored his Ilhar ever day but on this day he decided to show his devotion in the form of a gift. Smiling evily Arielana replies "Then let us see your gift Shaper and I hope it pleases me" Shaper unwrapped the skull Globe and held it up. Arielana's eyes narrowed. And in a low tone said "This is why you are late Shaper, for a mere skull of a defeated foe." Shaking her head she grabbed the skull with the intention of destroying it. As soon as her hands made contact with the skull she knew its real purpose. A evil gleam shown in her eyes as she looked at Shaper. With the Skull in her hands she could read his every thought. The meaning was clear, the skull amplified her abilities to enter her son's mind. Shaper was in his way showing his loyalty to his Ilhar and Dur'Eben. ShaperDef Ust Dalharuk (submitted by: CzJ) Helpful hint for newbies: There is a minotaur in the area just south of NW...he has a Battle Axe +1 and it will carry you far until you can find a better weapon. CzJ<><><><><> <><><><><> 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. <><><><><> <><><><><>