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