==========oOo========== NEVERWINTER NEWS Issue # 149 Week Ending 9-1-96 ==========oOo========== *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* FRONT PAGE *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* As usual, it was a very tough decision on selecting a winner for this week. There were a few posts that were very good once again. Keep those submissions coming folks! ;D Congratulations to SOL Bard for winning last week's News of the Realm contest for his two-part poem from the last two weeks entitled "Upstarts with Odd Parts". SOL Bard has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes). Keep up the good work! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> Location Hunt Winner - 8/24 Congratulations to StylesII, who hurried to find the particular hand-painted sign I was searching for! For his fleetness of foot and quick thinking, StylesII wins 4 pearls! Way to Go! ~ Ember <><><><><> <><><><><> New Player's Tour - August 20th A Tragic Tour... It started as a peaceful night in Neverwinter, NW Shaman had selected a group of young, unexperienced adventurers to accompany him on a routine tour to Port Llast to investigate the reports of a strange "ghost ship" that had come right up to the docks with, it seemed, noone on board. The assembled group consisted of: Canhead101, Tanisian, Lorddarius, Balforr, Msarette, O Zenith O, and Sa Sniper. Starting from the NW indoor garden, we proceeded around the edge of the city to avoid the usual crowds in the square. Just as we were approaching the Northern gates, Sa Sniper mysteriouslly disappeared. After a time of trying to find the lad, we decided to move on. The warehouse district presented no problems to a large group such as we, and we finally came to the road to WindyCliffs. Following up on a reports that there was a secret path that lead around the town, which was reportedly overrun by large groups of brigands, we began to search for this path. Just as Balforr found what appeared to be an entrance we came upon Jas101000, who was being accosted by Lizard Men. In the battle we lost O Zenith O to the lizards mens pet Pyro-Snake, he will be missed. After the battle, Jas joined our group and we entered the hidden path. The tunnel, for it was certainly no woodland path, but seemed more likely it was a well fashioned tunnel in the cliffs, was well lit, and seemed to be well traveled. We found ouut why as we entered a chamber only to come face to face with a cloud giant and his pets. Thankfully we lost noone in this battle, but as we were resting afterwards, Canhead101 disappeared as mysteriously as Sniper had, and not long after so did Tanisian. I was beginning to wonder if some curse had been laid over our party. We finally made ouur way into daylight again, blinking in the bright noon sun, and head onward on the road to Port Llast. We had an easy road for most of the journey to Llast, until we stopped for a bite to eat. As we sat down to eat, a huge group of Wild Boars and Giant Rats seemed to materialize all around us, and they dragged Jas101000 into the underbrush before we had a chance to drive them off. We quickly packed up and got to Llast as fast as we could. We spent the night in Llast and headed of the next morning to investigate the Gallant Prince, the "ghost" ship mentioned earlier in this telling. The horrors we found there were unbelievable! Zombie's and Hell Hounds, Ghouls and Medusae! MSarette disappeared as others had, Lorddarius was laid low by a huge Troll. Poor Balforr was turned to stone by a Medusa. I barely escaped with my life! I swear one day to retuurn there and have vengeance for the friends I lost there. <><><><><> <><><><><> Location Hunt Winner - 8/25 "Congratulations to Kto Machea who had no problem locating the Temple of Helm in Neverwinter, even amidst the crowded streets. Machea wins 4 pearls :)" -- NW Strahd <><><><><> <><><><><> New Player's Tour - 8/25 Sitting in the Indoor Gardens relaxing for a bit, and noticing the abundance of young citizens about the gardens and town, NW Dain thought it would be a good idea to show these young folks a bit of the realms. After the banner was called for the tour, blueshirt1, k a beam, celly c, jd ccross, rg0 505, xoketola & hadin joined in for the tour. We headed north out of Neverwinter towards Windy Cliffs. On the path to the town, we happened apon many battles with pyro snakes and lizzard men, in which we lost rg0 505, celly c, blueshirt1 & jd ccross due to the "punt demon" or to the misfortunes of battle. From there we headed towards Port Llast and on the way, we were fortunate enough to have arrikhan & cpmxyzzy aid us on the path to the tavern and training hall in Llast. But alas, the night grew long and the citizens decided to retire for the eve in the tavern. Of the party, k a beam & xoketola were left and I escorted the back the safe confines of Neverwinter. I do thank all who attended and hope they have all added some knowledge of the realms to their young minds. -- NW Dain <><><><><> <><><><><> New Player's Tour - 8/29 Upon arriving to work yesterday, I found I had a special assignment. Lord Nasher, concerned about the recent happenings in Neverwinter had assigned me to find and train a group of new warriors. I put out a message across the realms and seven brave young warriors to be, came to meet the challenge. Da Fats, Shanare37, Geralt BS, Akronaus, Johnt58141, Dgese, and Ragnatz all stepped forward ready to prove themselves. We headed off toward Floodblest to hone our adventuring skills. A rag-tag group we were. Inexperienced, unorganized and clueless as to what we would find, but with a passion for adventure we forged ahead. Before we knew it, we were surrounded with Giant Lizards and dodging the fires of PyroSnakes. It wasn't hard to figure out that we could not handle these creatures alone. Only by working together, could we destroy our foes and survive. We learned this lesson and we learned it well. This Rag-tag group had turned into a finely oiled team of warriors. As we prepared to return and retire for the Eve, we ran into another new found friend. LOTR Storm greeted us with a friendly offer for our party. He offered to take us to visit his beautiful keep, way up in Luskan Outpost.The entire group, excited to adventure, decided to join him on his journey. I returned to the city to retire confident that the realms are safe with a brave new group of warriors protecting it. Icky <><><><><> <><><><><> Fumble Booth Winners - 8/28 Here are the results of the fumble booth this past Wednesday evening. I started out a wee bit slow but certainly warmed up listening to the jeering and taunting of the players. };> Each participant that survived two fumble attempts by me recieved 2 pearls for their efforts. ;> Congrats to all the winners and condolences to the losers. Xared - 2 pearls TLCap - 2 pearls Uncle Ira - fumbled Nor Faith - fumbled Masoi - 2 pearls Shumard - fumbled Conwin - fumbled Alako - 2 pearls L0k1 - fumbled COR Jimi - fumbled Ap0kilyps - 2 pearls Babyl0n - 2 pearls Ingenjeger - 2 pearls Drakhen - fumbled V Eight - fumbled. <><><><><> <><><><><> August GOH Booth #2 Winner (8/30 9:30p ET) "August GoH booth #2 went underway with the participants asked to be a practice target for Strahd's fire and ice! The person who was the most willing to take the most abuse from the spells would win 6 pearls ;> And the winner was: Cucumberus! Who took 60 points of damage from the combined fireball and ice storm casts :)" <><><><><> <><><><><> *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* 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: September 1st Sunday 3:00 PM EDT - with NW Aziza. September 4th Wednesday 11:00 PM EDT - with NWA Elwind. September 6th *Friday 12:00 AM EDT - with NWA Cajun. * Technically, this is the 7th... but it's Friday evening, so we'll keep it this way to avoid confusion. ;D Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> (submitted by: Iadris) Roll High: The Character Creation Rhapsody (Sung to the melody of "Rawhide") Keep on rollin' rollin' rollin' Spend all day just rolling Keep those stats rollin'. Roll high! Skip breaks, meals, or sleep Cringe when I get DEX of 8 or 9 Sheer tedium spiked with agony I won't be complainin' If it weren't oh-so boring This quest for my super character Strength, dexterity, charisma, intelligence Multi or dual? Roll high! Paladin, mage, ranger, fighter Roll 'em, yes. Roll high! I am truly hopin', hopin', hopin' That the throbbing in my fingers Isn't Carpal Tunnel Symdrome. Roll high! Oh, you should've seen my expression I had all eighteens But by reflex, I hit 'Y' and rerolled Oh, the things I'm missin' Monsters I could be fightin' And quests with my buddies at my side Strength, dexterity, charisma, intelligence Multi or dual? Roll high! Paladin, mage, ranger, fighter Roll 'em, yes. Roll high! Of Moons and Mallorn Trees (submitted by: Thorn Hawk) Luthyen sat at the edge of the platform and studied the crescent moon that sparkled in the falling water and the stream. The Grove of Meilikki, where the great Mallorn tree stood, was filled with the sounds of night in the forest. The soft chirrup of insects formed a background to the tiny rustles that said forest creatures were moving about their nightly business. Thorn Hawk knelt below before the statue of Meilikki. He had been on vigil there for some time, communing with the Goddess, and Luthy wondered when he would be finished. It must be a matter of great concern to him. Events in Neverwinter had kept him away from the Grove for some weeks, and Luthyen had hardly seen him...then soon after his return he had hugged her, kissed her forehead, and excused himself to his prayer. She smiled at the form silvered in the moonlight. He must do as he must, and his devotion to the Goddess was one of the things she loved about him. Luthyen closed her eyes and stroked the Tressym kit asleep in her lap. Glad's wings twitched as her paws quivered, chasing butterflies thru dream fields. The little one purred as Luthy's fingers traced her grey-on-grey features. A step on the platform roused Luthyen from her drowse, and she opened her eyes to see Thorn Hawk's gentle smile before her. "Milady," he said softly, "Ye should not drowse so near the edge. I would not want ye to fall." "I will nae, melamin," she smiled back. "There is the rail here, it is quite safe. I am glad to have thee back, Dearheart, " she continued. The Ranger sat down beside her and gently took her in his arms. "Glad am I to be back, love," he whispered softly. "In all my time away..my thoughts were on thee..." He gently stroked a stray hair back from her forehead, and kissed it. He looked at her for a moment without speaking, just smiling. "Awenamin," he said quietly, barely a whisper above the night air. "Awenamin, umelle eamin ten'lle verno?" Luthyen's breath caught in her throat as she translated his words from elven into the common tongue. "Milady, will thee have me as thy husband?" Her eyes filled and spilled over, as she answered him. "I will, " she said huskily. "I will." ~Luthyen Thorn Hawk's Betrothed The ProtectorateThe Arrival (submitted by: Malfallen) One soft evening in Neverwinter Square, things looked fair and normal. Merchants and hearty adventurers were hard at work acquiring and selling goods. Many people in Neverwinter have faith in the human qualities of decency and morals, so there is no need to worry about thieves and rogue characters. How wrong they are. Malfallen was walking through the streets of the warehouse district minding his own business. He was a newcomer to these parts and inexperienced, or so he hoped to look. He was a Dark Elf, also known as Drow. He left His underground home to be away from his evil brothers and sisters, so that he might prey upon the foolishness and faults of others, as is the bidding of his god, Vhaerun. He slowly made his way toward the center street that led to the Main square of Neverwinter. This, He had been told was the largest center of trade and knowledge in the land. What a place to start, He thought. He walked up to the gates and pulled his dark cloak around his chilled form to keep warm from the nights breeze, and to hide his actions as he cut the purses of travelers that pushed their way by. Once he entered the square he looked in awe at the white walls and the bustling traffic that went by. He licked his lips and whispered to himself, "this is going to be too easy." Malfallen slipped his way into the faceless masses of travelers and followed the roads to the famous banking and vault district. This is where he hoped to make his score, where most dupes traded faithfully. When he rounded the corner and he was surprised to find a few paces in front of himself, his old friend, Robitius. Stealthily, He flanked the old wood elf so that he would not sense his approach. He slipped two daggers out of his sleeves right into his hands. Malfallen took on the appearance of an ordinary person out for a stroll, and made his slow approach toward Robitius's flank. When within two paces of the old thief, Robitius whirled on him and swatted a wrist of and dagger away as he spun behind the Drow newcomer with a dagger on his throat. Just then Malfallen realized where he was. He hadn't noticed that instead of coming down on Robitius at his original position, The blue skinned thief had gradually led them both to a less populated alley nearby. A place where noone would care. Malfallen's mind raced. He had to act quick. He threw his hip into his assailants waste and turned his head toward the knife so that it only grazed the side of the neck. Shoving quickly with his palms into the chest, he sent Robitius flying into the wall. With a grunt, he crashed against the hard stone and slid to the ground. Malfallen quickly looked up to notice a few passers-by glance their way, then turn and go about their own business. He turned down on Robitius, to find that he was no longer laying there, but standing just a pace in front of him. "I have taught you well, Malfallen, but you will need more than those nifty moves to get by in Neverwinter." "Thanks for the tip, teach. I thought maybe you didn't recognize me" "Of course I did." Robitius replied as he gave me hearty hug. "What are you doing here so soon?" "I read your message about this land and I had to come, who could pass by such opportunities? You couldn't." "I guess your right, and it is good to see and old friend here. I have many new friends and associates, but they don't know me like you do." "Getting all mushy on me now are ya. maybe I should go before I get too soft. Just kiddin'. How's business going here, you catch many marks." "What do you think? I am the Prince of Thieves after all." "What a bunch of idiots, there will never be such a thing, as long we're still here. Stealing is part of me just as my in-born magic. It is my pleasure and noone here is going to take that pleasure away from me." "I know this buddy, and that is why I have put in a good word for you with my guild master, Movarl. He has established the best thieves guild in the land with the help of his greatly experienced Spy leader, yours truly." Malfallen claps his hands in mockery, "doing better than I thought old friend, I'm impressed. I would have thought you would be stuck with your thumb up your rath suul." "Don't you speak that filthy Drow, mellon. Your kind is not liked much in these parts, especially in our fair city of Neverwinter." "Olot dos! Usstan uil Ilythiiri." "Fine then, mellon, you may speak it if you like, but many may not understand you." Malfallen begins to smile, "I know. They'll never know what hit them." "Come on, my friend. Let us find ourselves something to steal." "Praise Vhaerun. You know what I like." The two men gathered themselves into their faceless disguises and returned to the streets of Neverwinter. Slowly they wound their way to the banking district, to find it bustling with business everywhere in sight. People of all sorts were standing there ready to be robbed blind. Malfallen tapped his partner on the shoulder, "Look over there. Now there is a good mark to start on." His gave was directed on a large and well built Paladin wearing a snowy white cloak that hung from his shining breastplate. "A stupid Rivvil, ripe for the taking. Malfallen swept away from Robitius in a whirl black cloth from his cloak, and in no time had covered the 20 yard distance. He approached the man from behind, fitting in with the large crowd that was just passing by. Slipping one of his llarl daggers from his sleeve, he struck. With an unseen swipe of knife against leather, the strap on the Paladin's belt pouch gave way. Almost before the pouch began to drop from the man's waist it had disappeared. Most likely into the cloak of the dark elf behind him. Malfallen gathered himself into an appearance of dignity, after all he was born into a noble family of Lui'haulen'tar. Breaking apart from the crowd behind the Paladin he came around the man to confront him face to face. His smile spread from side to side as he spoke. "Dear sir, I have noticed you have been trying to sell that fine broadsword there. Might it be of Magic quality." "But of course noble elf. it was crafted by the deep Dwarves, but I happened to come by it during my battle with a dragon near Westbridge." "Is that so. A Dwarven crafted and Dragon enchanted broadsword. For how much would you be willing to sell such a fine piece of equipment." "I am looking for a fair 80,000 platinum. I don't doubt that an educated and noble elf like yourself could afford such a small amount." "You are very perceptive good sir, I am of noble birth and I could easily afford such a small amount. If it would not be a problem with you I would like to try it out though. To see if I want to make the purchase." "I have no problem, I would not purchase anything without at least holding it in my hands. Go right ahead, swing it about, see how light it really is in your hands." Robitius watched from the far corner of the intersection as Malfallen interacted with the stout fellow. He also noticed the three other armed fighters that appeared to be leisurely sitting around the Paladin's shop. But they watched Malfallen with Hawk's eyes, giving them away as the Paladin's guards. Just then he thought. "Malfallen is gonna start a fight!" Robitius tensed up and prepared to jump in when he remembered who he was thinking about. Malfallen, 4th born Son to the house of Aleanrahel in Lui'haulen'tar, and Qu'el'velguk (House Assassin) for the house Melarn. He eased back against the wall and began to watch patiently. Malfallen, eyeing the three guards around him picked up the great sword and sung it about. His skill was obvious to all that observed him. He spun around, moving through many different forms and techniques. He was a whirl of black cloth and shining steal. Finally he finished his practice and returned the sword to its place. "It is a fine piece of craftsmanship, but I am looking for something a little different. Thank you good sir, for the chance to try out such a fine weapon, though." "No problem, I was hoping for your purchase, but I have no fear that I will not sell it by the days end. Farewell." Malfallen gave the Paladin a slight bow as he turned and strut off toward his waiting companion. "Let us take a stroll together, Rob." With a wink he quickly strode past his friend down the street. Robitius caught up quickly, eyeing Mal with curiosity, wondering what exactly he did. After a few turns and a change of scenery, they came upon the gates of the Neverwinter Gardens. "This looks like a good place." Reaching within his robes, Malfallen pulled out the broad sword he had been practicing with. "Do you like my new sword?" He questioned Robitius with a wide grin. "How on earth did you get that?" "Easy, I was doing so many movements that even the guards could not keep up with me. When my robes were flaring in the way I pulled out my wooded practice sword that I had cast a cloak of illusion over. I quickly switched the two swords, so that at the end I was playing with my wooden sword that only looked like the broadsword in appearance. It is a little trick I learned, well, it is a little trick that I was born with and just developed..... Right about now our good Paladin should realize what happened, now that the illusion is gone." "Well done... I always thought your internal Drow magic would be worth something. I guess you made the right choice by going to the Melee-Magthere, instead of the Sorcere as a young boy. You don't need all that other magic." Robitius picks up the sword and examines it for himself. "So what do you plan to do with it?" "Sell it of course, or I could keep it as a trophy. I don't really need a broadsword right now. Me daggers and short sword are good enough.... Who knows." Malfallen took the sword from Robitius's hands. "All I do know is that I don't intend to give you the chance to best me by taking it, right after I stole it." "Well, since we are here, let me show you to Master Movarl." "He is here?" "Yes we sometimes hold office or meetings in the back areas of the garden. For both secrecy and the beautiful scenery." Robitius turned toward the entryway and strode into the gardens with Malfallen right at his heals. They wove their way through the labyrinth of the gardens with ease, because Robitius had gone this way many times before. Soon they approached a back corner of the gardens and Robitius went strait toward the shrubbery wall. He Reached within the bushes and pushed a lever. Suddenly, the garden wall moved away as if it were connected to the stone door behind it. Robitius beckoned Malfallen to enter and they both entered into the Den of Thieves, also known as Lurker Hall. By...Malfallen Aleanrahel A Brigand's Tale (submitted by: Tyo Ark) The blood was on my hands, it was on my blade. The man lay before me, as the essence of his life slowly dripped into the ground never to return. Had I done this? Could I be the perpetrator of such an atrocity to nature? Was it I that had taken the life of another and was I prepared to face the consequences of the actions I had taken? Hell yeah. Using the hem of the mans ruined cloak I wiped and sheathed my blade, I quickly relieved the man of all the silver in his pouch, spit in his face and continued on my way; looking forward to a night of merriment, my unsightly deeds soon forgotten. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I'm an Ark, I'm a brigand. I'm the guy you don't wanna meet on yer way to Longsaddle. A confrontation with me ends one of two ways. One, yer purse is relieved of any weight that might tire you on yer journey, or two yer relieved of the nightmare of your life... and yer purse is relieved of any weight that might tire you on yer journey to the Seven Hells. It was a quiet night, like many others I suppose. The crickets were chirping, the toads burping and everything was pleasant as pie. Course, such serenity never seems to last long when folks get stubborn. Such was the case tonight, as I waited in my usual spot in the old oak tree, waitin fer my mark ta wander carelessly past me. Ah, there he was. A tall lad of around 6 feet tall, clothed in a dark blue cloak, soft leather boots padding quietly on the trail. From the way he wore his sword, it was easy to see he had yet to learn life's hard lessons. As he passed under my perch, I watched my eyes glistening with the expectation of an easy night's work. The lad, whom I shall call Paul after my late brother, continued down the trail unsuspecting of what cards Fate had dealt him this night. With a quick squirrel like chirp, I signalled Victor to let the games begin. From my higher elevation, I was able to see the upper part of Victor as he appeared before the lad some 10 paces down the trail. "'Lo there mate" said Victor, smiling in his own sweet way, while his eyes sized up the lad, much like I had done not minutes ago. "Stand away brigand, I am in need of haste." Paul spat, his words menacing, his hand falling to the pommel of his sword. "Now, now, no need to get violent. Of course I'll get out yer away friend..." said Vic in mock sincerity, "but first I'll be needing a little something to show yer respect to the powers that be." "I said STAND ASIDE BRIGAND" yelled Paul, even from my view behind the lad I could see him start to tense, and I knew what was coming. Seems some people never learn when to leave well enough alone. Sighing softly to myself, I gave the signal to Vic.. a quick slash across my throat, and the choice was made. Slowly I drew the string back on my bow, the arrow having been previously notched in expectation of the coming event. While I drew my bead, Vic continued dealing with Paul in his chivalrous and mocking manner. Putting his hands on his head, Vic stood to the side, making way for the lad to pass, "Well, you seem to know what you want, don't let me stop yas mate. Have a nice journey now ya hear?" said Victor sweetly, perhaps in anticipation at what was to come. And there it was, the twang of the bowstring, the whistling of an arrow flown true.. and of course the lovely scream from Paul as he found his foot stuck fast to the ground. Chuckling softly to myself I jumped to the ground, and watched as Paul acted; true to his instincts to bend down and pull the arrow out of his foot. Well, as he made to bend over, Vic pulled that nasty club from behind his back, which of course was conveniently sheathed on his back. With a quick downward chop, and a sickening thud, the back of Pauls head became one with the club. Instantly rendering him senseless, as he crumpled onto the ground in an unconscious heap. "Well, Vic ole pal, that was almost too easy" I muttered, quickly relieving Paul of his belt pouch... - Tyo ArkHulk Steaks and Dancing (submitted by: Thorn Hawk) Thorn Hawk moved through the city of Neverwinter his steps quickening as he approached the tavern. He was to meet Luthyen tonight and he had little doubt that she would want to tell everyone present the good news about their upcoming marriage. Hefting the sack he carried, Thorn entered the tavern to be greeted by Cyane and Cesse. Smiling to the two lovely ladies, he grabbed a frenzy Cyane had waiting for him and headed for the kitchen. "I think Thorn's going to cook Cyane," remarked Cesse watching Thorn disappear. Sitting at a table after depositing his sack in the ice box, Thorn relaxed until a voice broke into his thoughts. "Luthyen has a surprise for me," beamed Cyane from the bar. "I know Cyane, I know," smiled Thorn knowingly. Shortly after, Luthyen entered the tavern to a jumping Cyane. "Surprise, surprise." As Luthyen sat on Thorn's lap, Cyane rushed over her face alight. "Ye might as well tell her love," commented Thorn. "Well Cyane . . . " "Me and Thorn . . . " "Are . . . betrothed," beamed Luthyen as Cyane's eyes crossed and she collapsed on the floor. "Oh my," said Luthy rushing to help Cyane. "That went well," commented Thorn heading for the bar getting a glass of water Dragn was holding. Leaving the tavern for the kitchen, Thorn listened to the calls for a party and discussions on the upcoming wedding. The kitchen was quiet as Thorn took the sack out of the ice box and pulled a large hunk of hulk meat from within. It had been long since he had cooked hulk steaks here at the tavern, but he had promised a friend once that he would again do so. The steaks were quickly cut into thick slaps as set in a pan with some frenzy. A smile crossed Thorn's face as he gazed at the grill. It was still blackened from many uses and not the best cleaning. The fire would burn a lot of the stuff off, he thought as he headed back into the tavern to get orders. "Ok, everyone, if ye want a hulk steak, let me know how ye want it cooked," yelled Thorn over the din of conversation. "Medium," called Cyane from the bar. "Medium well," yelled Alako from his table as he read cards for his customers. "Rare," shouted Toomec. "Medium rare, love," said Luthyen sipping a frenzy from her table. "Nothing for me, thank you," remarked Sol Shugar from her seat. "I want strawberries," cried Snarfbully. "Medium rare," hollered Bnicexxxxx. Counting heads and their orders, Thorn disappeared once again in the kitchen noting Dhaunae sitting next to Urgrue and Luthyen. Perhaps she would dance this evening, thought the ranger putting steaks on the grill. Grinding fennel and thyme, Thorn sprinkled some on each steak as they cooked. As the steaks cooked, he washed some strawberries he found in the ice box and placing them in a bowl brought them to Snarfbully. Pulling the steaks from the grill, he made his way back into the tavern pausing to take a drink of frenzy. Finishing serving his steaks, cooking for late arrivals and cleaning his mess, the tired ranger made his way to the hut tub where Luthyen waited. Seeing that Dhaunae was ready as he entered the water, he motioned to Luthy who left him alone in the water to join the drow. Taking another drink, he watched as Dhaunae disappeared into the little sorceresses room while Luthy pulled a dulcimer from her bag and began playing a plaintive tune as Cyane adjusted the lighting in the tavern drenching the darkened room in shades of blue and green. Dhaunae returns wearing a blue dress as the music changes becoming heavier and slower. She slowly starts swaying her movements, sensual as she moves in time with the music. Conversation in many parts of the tavern start to watch as Dhaunae dances, her lithe elven form moving, compelling, arousing in its grace. Luthyen smiles in Thorn's direction as the song changes to a drow mating song while Dhaunae's movements become even more sensual causing many of the men to stare in awe. Taking another drink to hide the blush on his face, Thorn watches as the tone swifts to a faster pace, Dhaunae movements keeping pace. With a final flurry of movement she finishes the dance to a captive audience. Applause rings throughout the tavern. Thorn Hawk, Brotherhood of Pathfinders.The Watch (submitted by: Thorn Hawk) It was a brisk, sunny day. The wind was blowing in a calm, rhythmic pace, and all seemed well. Yet, something felt oddly out of place; as if the calm of the day was trying to warn of something more. It was at this point, when the day seemed perhaps too serene, that a growing sound of thunder began to come from the east. Glancing toward the far off ridge, Ender Bay sent his gull into the air to scout the area. Something was wrong the sea ranger knew, but its source was hidden from him. Watching his gull fly off toward the sound of the thunder, Ender spurred his horse to a faster pass hoping to reach the distant ridge and the source of this noise before it found him. The ridge proved too steep for the horse to climb forcing Ender to leave it hobbled to a tree while he continued afoot. Moving slowly as someone long accustomed to days on the deck of a rolling ship, he approached the ridge line when he doubled over in pain. A thought, piercing his mind with pain, brought his tearful eyes to the skies above where his gull slowly fell earthward an arrow in his side. Reaching the spot of his fallen companion, Ender noted the bird still moved and the arrow, black shafted and red fletchted, was lodged in the breast of his friend and companion causing it little harm. His eyes searched the clearing below for the source of this outrage. His eyes didn't have long to rove for the center was dominated by the presence of a giant and his orc companions. As anger replaced the anguish of nearly losing his friend, Ender recognized a familiar form and the source of the thunder. Barthonis Giantslayer stood in the middle of the group his fingers moving as a lighting bolt sped forth to reck havoc among the ranks of orcs. Thunder crashed overhead. "Be well my friend," whispered Ender, heading down into the valley a war cry forming on his lips. "Aaaaaaiiiiiiiiiieeeeeeeeeeee . . ." Looking up at the sound of the cry, Barthonis was overjoyed to see his brother coming to join the fight for he was sorely wounded. The orcs in the rear turned in time to take the brunt of Ender's attack. His trident, moving to and fro, felled many of the beasts before they regrouped for this new threat. Battling his way to Barthonis's side, Ender shimmered and images of the fierce ranger appeared around him confusing the orcs. "Hail bro, it's good to see you again," cried Barthonis, swinging his sword at a nearby orc before the creature could raise its axe in defense. "And you bro," breathed Ender, turning to put his back to Barthonis as the two began fighting the humanoids in earnest. Soon the ground was bloodied around the pair from the fallen orcs when the giant, seeing the danger in the two rangers, charged into the fray, but Barthonis had anticipated this move and was ready. He had not earned the name, giantslayer, for nothing. As the giant reached the pair he failed to account for the quickness of Barthonis, who ducking under his legs, swung his sword cutting deep into the tendon of the giants' leg. The falling giant failed to notice the other ranger moving in his trident poised for the killing blow. As darkness claimed the giant, a faint sound was heard, "aaaaaaiiiiiiiiieeeeeeeee." The pair of pathfinders soon found themselves alone in the clearing as the last of the orcs fell beneath their unbridled savagery. Healing his gull, Ender Bay and Barthonis left the clearing and headed deeper into the woods for their travels were not done nor was their watch finished. Thorn Hawk, Brotherhood of PathfindersHeart of Tempus (submitted by: Sol Arthur) Arthur kicked open the gates to the keep, startling the two guards standing there. They quickly moved back and started to draw their swords, but much to slow as Arthur's hold kept them both frozen in mid action. The Soldier of Light moved on through the courtyard, screams of warning coming from those who had just witnessed Arthur's actions. Brother Varion was the first to react, moving out of the armory, seeing the situation and quickly moving towards Arthur, who was now walking up the stairs to the keeps walls. "Arthur you damn loose cannon, what the heck is going on now!" Varion exclaimed as he moved closer to the wall. "Stay your ground Varion!" Arthur warned, the globe quickly going up to protect himself from any aggressive actions from Brother Varion. Varion seeing the globe go up about Arthur, slowed down and came to a stop at the bottom of the wall. Arthur was now at the top and moving along it towards the gatehouse. Brother Entity and Sister Entres were now walking out into the courtyard, with a few other Soldiers of Light following. "Varion, what the hell?" Entity called. Entres was just shaking her head and whispering to herself, "Arthur, no, please don't do this". "He's mad about something boss," Varion said to Entity as he walked up next to him at the bottom of the stairs. Arthur was now almost to the gatehouse, with an audience of about thirty Soldiers of Light in the courtyard, all waiting to see what the Arch Prelate would do. "Lets see what he says," Entity said, starting across the courtyard towards the gatehouse. Entres was at the bottom already, having already dispelled Arthur's hold and listening to the story the guards had to tell. The two guards atop the gatehouse looked at the man approaching, the rage on his face, the determination in his eyes. The guards glanced to the Arch Prelate in the courtyard below and Entity waved them away, both turning from the approaching Arthur and moving quickly away. Arthur turned and looked down at the courtyard and smiled as at least twenty globes quickly were cast. Below were Entity, Entres and Varion as Arthur stopped and stepped up on the ledge of the wall, and raising his hands. "Now Tempus," the words were whispered from Arthur's lips as the sky quickly blackened, the clouds flowing in from all points on the compass, covering the keep in a blanket of black. Bolts of lightning started to dance from the darkness behind Arthur, striking the countryside about the keep. "Soldiers of Light, here me, your brother," Arthur's voice carried above the sound of the storm that was now raging behind him. "I come to speak my heart, to speak my liege's heart!" he exclaimed as a loud clap of thunder erupted in the darkness behind him. The ensuing lightning lit up the top of the gatehouse, illuminating Arthur in an erie white light. His hair was blowing behind him from the force of the wind, but still over it all his voice carried. "I must tell you brothers and sisters, that I, Arthur carry the true spirit of our god Tempus. It is through me that he teaches you how to serve!" he called forth, starting to pace the edge of the keep's wall. "The true spirit of a chaotic neutral God of War!" he once again exclaimed over the sounds of the storm. Those in the courtyard below seemed paralyzed to react to Arthur's words, having to bear witness to them. "So, I tell you that I know longer adhere to laws put on me as to how I serve my god, for I shall now serve as I feel fit. I shall fight with honor, and spirit, and with all the weapons that my opponent might use against me. If this is direct dispels, then damn, so bit it!" he stressed the last words with the highest octave of his voice. "For no true servant of the God of War would cry about doing battle, for that is why we live. No true follower of the God of War would not see that all that battle serve our liege Tempus. We are a guild of warriors, let us carry ourselves so, not like lambs waiting for the slaughter!" he called. So, if you do not like what I say to you, then find me and in the spirit of our lord, take me in battle. If you want to oppose my words, back it up with your best fighting spirit, as a true cleric of Tempus would. But if you want to sit back and complain and cry about what I say and do, then I tell you that you should never have been a cleric of the God of Battle to begin with. I also tell you that the God of Battle has no concern for good or evil, but for battle. So, I leave you to do justice to our lord and to set the example of what a Soldier of Light should be!" he exclaimed once more, then turned from gatehouse and spoke a quick incantation, disappearing from the view above. As soon as he was gone, the clouds subsided and the storm ceased. Soldiers of Light were mumbling to themselves about the courtyard. Entres shook her head and turned back to the inner keep with a saddened look on her face. Entity looked to Varion with a hint of anger in his eyes and Varion just shrugged, having kind of expected this from Arthur.The Abduction (Prologue) (submitted by: Verdina II) "Nonsense!" Polar Orbit shouted, slamming his tankard of meade down hard on the small oak table in Strider's Tavern; splashing the foamy honey-colored liquid upon the tabard of the young burly man seated across from him. For a moment, the normally rowdy tavern grew quiet as heads looked up from the surrounding tables to stare at the twosome of well known and respected men. "I care not what ye may have heard or seen," he lied, stopping abruptly when he noticed that he was the center of attention. The silence, though, ended as quickly as it had begun when the assemblage of humans, elves and dwarves unexpectedly roared with laughter. In the opposite corner of the smoke-filled room, an enraged serving wench screamed and hurled a scalding platter of food into the lap of an overly impassioned, and very drunk dwarven miner. At the same time, a trio of wandering musicians perched upon a small, raised platform in the corner of the tavern began to play a boisterous Daleland folk dance and the ambiance of the tavern soon returned to normal. "M'lord," Ian DeBrut said quietly and resolutely. "I know how absurd this must sound to you, it is true nonetheless. I myself would not believe such a tale had I not seen her with my own eyes!" A frown appeared on the face of the newly decreed guild master of the Order of the Golden Staff. "Well, my friend," Polar Orbit smirked, "either your heretofore vigilant eyes are playing tricks on you, or you have seen a ghost. Verdina is dead!" "I know," Ian DeBrut answered, sinking exasperated into the high-backed leather chair as a particularly full-bosomed waitress smiled brazenly at the handsome paladin and approached to replace his nearly empty tankard of meade. The calculated gleam in her eyes rekindled a disquieting memory. "At least I thought I knew that she was dead?" he asked, doubting himself. Ian stood and leaned forward, placing his knuckles against the yielding wood of the table. "M'lord," he continued fervently, "I have not, as yet, lost my sanity. I observed Verdina on the streets of Neverwinter this very night. She even turned and looked at me with those piercing jade green eyes when I called her name. But," he sighed turning away from the table, "she fled down a darkened alley and vanished as quickly as she had appeared." "All right," Polar Orbit conceded, motioning with a slight hand gesture that Ian should sit down. He wanted to believe the improbable account being related by his old and trusted friend, but the propagation of rumors (and hopes) at this critical time of guild reconstruction could have disastrous consequences if, upon investigation, proved to be untrue. "Let us suppose that you were not drunk or befuddled by some magical incantation earlier, and that you 'did' see Verdina, or her ghost, walking the streets of Neverwinter. What of it?" Ian smiled. "M'lord, Verdina was at one time a very important council member of our guild. As guild scribe under Master Kayn, her skills became well known and respected throughout these realms. If we could ..." "Ian," Polar Orbit injected, "you are not telling me anything I do not already know. What is your point?" "My point is," Ian asserted, "If we could find Verdina and bring her back into the fold, those skills could once more be used to further our reformation and advancement. What I suggest that we do is ..." For the next hour, the two men sat huddled and talking near the crackling hearth, their hushed voices blanketed by the music and singing of the crowd. Little did either man realize that the evening's unusual turn of events were about to get a lot stranger . . . and much deadlier. ---- "You fool!" Skorp roared, striking the flaxen-haired woman hard across the cheek; knocking her to the cold, stone floor. "I'm . . . I'm sorry M'lord," Verdina whimpered, wiping a rivulet of blood from the corner of her mouth with the back of her trembling hand. "I meant no harm. I was . . . hungry and there was nothing to eat here. It was late and I kept to the shadows. I did not think anyone would see me." "Aye, you sniveling fool," the towering dark figure of Skorp sneered, reaching down to violently jerk the frightened woman to her feet. "You did not think at all! I have not spent the last year planning and preparing you for this strike against OGS to have it thwarted by the growling belly of a pathetic woman with an insatiable appetite." "Hear me girl," he snarled as his fingers tightened around Verdina's exposed and delicate throat, "you are no more than a pawn in the great scheme of things to come and can easily be replaced. If you ever leave these chambers unescorted or without permission again, I will take great pleasure in crushing your windpipe myself." Skorp loosened his grip and dragged Verdina across the room; casting her down on a dirty, straw covered sleeping pallet. "One more thing," he said before whirling around and heading for the door. "You realize, of course, that your friend Ian, having seen you, must die." Skorp's dark eyes grew suddenly distant as a malignant grin crept slowly across his face. He muttered his final words more to himself than to Verdina as the iron door slammed shut behind him with a resonant clang. "No one will stand in my way of my victory." To be continued ...Rose Graye: A Rose for the Earl IV (submitted by: Ldy Graye) Regrouping quickly in the chamber after rememorizing, they encircled the bed where their weakened sister lay. They were in two rows. Casting partners were arranged and they lined up across the bed from each other. The Earl stood by her head holding her hand. His role was to come at the end, to help his wife after the baby is born. Rhinard was positioned to deliver the baby. Red and Lunar were holding Mel's legs so they were bent under the draping blanket. They were in the support team for the baby. Rhinard checked the baby's position one more time. Giving the signal, Shiver, Reklaive, Odinsun, and Santee, the birthing team, began to cast simultaneously. In sychronization, Lady Kaylen, Meenman and the others in Melody's support team began to cast. Melody awoke as if stirring from the dead. A meek cry eascaped her lips as her body began to contract once again. "Push now," the Earl whispered in her ear. Unsure what he wanted, she sucked in her breath and pushed down. With all her strength, she bared down onto the Earl's hand, once again. The contraction stopped for a moment, however brief it was. She was able to get her wits about her as she gasped for air. Then another forced contraction... she felt the power of the casting this time, coursing throughout her. She grasped at the power and pushed, biting down on her lips. She could taste her own blood as it flowed into her mouth. "This is it, my love!" Clenching his hand, she seized what she could of her brother and his group's casting and strained to bring forth her child. Her body felt like it was turning inside out. Then she heard it. They all heard it, rocking them off their feet. It was not a wail of mere sound, but of mind. The baby cried into their minds. As the babe came forth, Red, CzJ, Lunar and group began to cast towards the baby. The baby just cried harder, taking their power and adding it to its will. Rhinard spoke out "Stop casting at the baby. She is fine and is only draining you of what you need to save for Mel". Rhinard looked down at the child in her arms in amazement. The child cried but never did her mouth open, not an audible sound was uttered. This baby cried in true power. Aside from that, the child was as round and pink and as healthy as she had every seen. There was not one sign of being born so early. Squirming in her arms, the child wailed on in their minds. They all looked on in amazement except Mel's support group which was to busy keeping her alive. Melody could feel Johan feeding her and she knew her time awake was limited. She wished to feel her child. She wanted to stop the wailing. Most of all, she wanted her child. She raised her arms toward Rhinard. Smiling, Rhinard laid the baby onto her stomach. "Your daughter, Countess. She seems healthy and quite loud." Mel placed her arms around her daughter. The room went silent. Rhinard prepared to finish the birth. They could not help but smile at this small child with squinted closed eyes. CzJ pushed in close to get a better look. Shiver stood in a corner, by himself, looking pleased. He probably was. Johan rubbed the small of his naked daughters back, leaning forward he kissed his wife's head. "You did it, my love." Mel smiled, her dry lips cracking even more. "Yes, my gift to you. My rose, dear love, and one of the most beautiful I have ever seen." It took everything she had to hold her daughter, her beautiful baby. Mel and Johan watched as their daughter opened her eyes for the first time. They were to be her first sight. The baby opened her eyes briefly and the swirl of color that they encompassed made those close enough to see gasp. Mel and Johan never spoke a word. There was no need. Knowing she grew weak, she turned to her husband. "Johan, take the baby. I can't hold her much longer." The Earl reached down and carefully took the child from her mother's arms. Red handed him a blanket, which he wrapped his daughter in. The babe's wail broke the silence, as Meenman yelled for Johan. Johan quickly gave his daughter to CzJ. "Well, you might as well start now." Turning, he left CzJ with the crying baby and returned to his wife. Remembering no more than her daughter's eyes, Mel drifted off. There was no more pain or weakness, just peace. Yet she could not forget her baby's eyes. Johan reached his wife, but she was already past his grasp and the others were drained, as well. She had been too weak and too long from her dragon body. All they could do was wait until they could memorize their spells once more. Johan had used every scroll in the castle and the bundles Arlon Tri had brought. She was on her own now. "Hold on, my love. Please, hold on," he told her. (TBC)Rose Graye (submitted by: Ldy Graye) The sun was already past midpoint in the sky. The Earl sat holding his sleeping daughter as he watched the shallow breathing of his wife... making sure she did not stop. CzJ stood by the door so deep in his thoughts he was actually quiet. There was a knock at the door and Red entered. "Johan, we arranged a wet nurse. I am sure the babe is hungry by now." The young girl, still plump from the birth of her child, hung back... scared of the Earl and his stillness. Red guided the girl into the chair next to his. "That is Mel's seat" he muttered. The girl jumped up as if hit by lightning. Red quickly reached out and eased her back in the chair. "And I am sure she would not mind sharing if it meant her child would be fed." Johan was still. The Earl made no move to release the infant. Red was growing tired. It had been hard on them all and she had had enough. She walked over and removed the infant from his arms. It was a bold move and she cared little, either way. Red gave the healthy young village girl the baby, "Please feed her." The young girl nodded and proceeded to feed the infant who had awoke in the move and was quite hungry. Red placed her hand on the Earls shoulder, "They will be ready soon. It will not be long now. Mel still seems stable". She was trying to be helpful. The girl broke the silence as she spoke with her village accent. Holding the infant in her arms, she forgot most of her fear. "She sure likes to eat, sure is healthy enough". The Earl remained silent as the girl cooed to his daughter. Soon the girl had forgot all her fear as she rocked the still nursing baby, humming to her. Suddenly, as if she just had a brilliant idea, she looked up and addressed Johan. "Earl Graye, does your daughter have a name, Sir?" Johan looked at his daughter's bald head as she suckled. As if not expecting him to answer, the girl looked back at the baby she rocked. "Rose, her name will be Rose." The girl looked up. "Ahhhh, and a beauty she is." There was silence while the baby finished. Red signaled CzJ. "Tomasina, CzJ will take you to the nursery where you and your son have already been installed." The girl rearranged her clothes. Standing, she bowed and turned to follow CzJ. Red placed Rose in CzJ's hands and a smile passed between them as CzJ left with the baby safely tucked in his arms. Red turned and spoke to Johan "You need to memorize and rest now. I will watch." Red sat down in Mel's chair and began to watch her sister. Johan stood and walked out of the chamber. The Sun was setting when he returned. He wore clean clothes and held a white dress. "Red, the others are all already there. Meen awaits outside to take you there." The weary Guild Master stood, kissed her sister's forehead, muttered a word or two and left the room. Johan walked to his wife, kissing her forehead as he spoke to her. Johan stood in the his mother's cave, holding his wife's limp body, the white satin pooling over his arms. Her skin was still even paler than the white gown she wore. The Council and family, once again, were formed in a circle around the Earl and his wife. There were no words spoke among them. They all new the gravity of the situation and each knew they had one chance. Mel would probably not make another day. Johan placed his wife on the ground, close to the earth and stepped backed into the circle. When he was ready, they all began to link and soon they cast out towards Mel. The rush of power knocked them back as the sound of shifting filled the air. Where once a small, frail woman laid, now a glorious red dragon slumbered in peace. A quiet cheer rose up among them... it had worked. Now it was up to Mel. Johan walked over to this dragon in slumber, probably the first human ever to walk towards a sleeping dragon in hopes of awaking it. That was not to happen. He stood for a moment, then leaned forward and kissed the dragon's huge red snout. "Sleep well, my love and heal quickly. We all wait for you." Then he leaned close and what he said was lost to just him and his wife. Taking a deep breath, he addressed his friends with all he had strength to say and all that needed to be said. "Thank you, my friends" and he was gone. CzJ helped everyone out and made arrangements for their stay in the Castle. There was very little talk in the castle; a somber mood fell over the walls that eve. They all needed rest and that's what they got. All except restless Shiver, who seemed to be a creature of the night. They spoke in a alcove. The dark elf grinned, his blue skin almost black in the faint lighting. "It isn't a surprise, is it?" CzJ looked a bit puzzeled, then matched the drow's smile. "No, I suppose it isn't. There is no chance, is there... just Io's will and our will." "Our will, yes, friend. Our will." The dark elf looked both ways, squinting as if he was about to share a great secret. "You know, when my life settles down and I've accomplished something I've been working hard on... I could be convinced to stay here, for a bit, while the Lady recovers. My duties as Scribe aren't terribly demanding, you know. It wouldn't take much convincing... A choclate bar from Lunar..." The Elder and the dark elf smiled to each other. "Aluve', abbil CzJ. Ye've done well, today." The drow vanished down the corridor. CzJ walked the other way. CzJ approached the nursery where he would be sleeping from now on. The Earl was there, watching his sleeping daughter in her crib. CzJ stood next to him and they both watched the breaths of this infant as she slept into the night. Rose...(submitted by: Jedi Chris) This is a small trick that may help you if you are in a hurry to get somewhere in Neverwinter. If you are stuck behind a rather large group of people who are questing, you can sometimes "run" past them (provided they aren't in a fight) even if there are 8 people on the square. You have to get about four squares behind them and quickly hit your cursor (movement) keys which in effect makes you "run" past them. I believe this works due to the lag between the game running on your computer and the network host on the other end. This trick may not always work.....it depends mainly on your connection, but I've been able to get it to work at both low and high baud rates. If you would like to try it out.....try one night when NW Square is full of people and see if you can "run" past them by jumping over the square and ending up in front of Nasher's Castle. This Protectorate Quick Tip has been brought to you by: Jedi Chris AGM of TP(submitted by: ITB Skorp) The ITB Fumble The Protectorate Highlord took place just behind the Legendary WooWoo man's hideout in Luskan. In all, 16 people participated in both the Fumbling of Tyst and the ITB "Taunt the Tyst" contest. After the final contestant threw his fumbles at Tyst, Many spectators jumped in for an improptu "Feeb Tyst" contest, with 3 players each sticking 2 feebs apiece on the Highlord of The Protectorate. Tyst took a total of 8 feebs in that event. Congrats to the Winners! Kytria - Two Pearls for sticking 2 Fumbles on Tyst Khravhas - A pick of any itme from the ITB Vaults for his unrelenting insults on Tyst ITB Teddi, ITB Xavier and Khravhas A pick of any item from the ITB Vaults for each sticking two feebs on Tyst. Skorp Grandmaster of Bondage HOUSE ITB(submitted by: SwordsHere) The call went to the members of The Protectorate; Swordshere, AGM and Ranger Knight, had grown weary of the constant boasts of his brothers and sisters over who was the best all around TP'er. It was time to pull out all of the stops and design a contest to see just exactly who was the best Quester, Monster Basher, and PvP'er. Nine brave TP'ers answered the challenge: Tyst, Talgar, Jecele, TP Tec, Mad Kzin, TP Havok, Pegleg Bob, ERezendes, and TP Crator all stepped forward. They would have to negotiate a deadly course set up by Sword...one which would call on every ounce of skill and courage that they possessed. On 8/28, the spirited band met at the Longsaddle Inn to begin an event which Sword had dubbed the "TP Olympics." The first event was called out to the throng: Free the Bronze Dragon, known affectionately to all as "Ernie," who had been cruelly imprisoned in Longsaddle Under! Each contestant would be timed...the top three finishers earning points. The race began...several TP'ers fell bravely facing the nasty Dracs who appeared to thwart the rescue attempt. Four racers made it through, and their times were remarkably close: Tyst: 2min 15 sec., Talgar: 2 min 17 sec., TP Havok: 2 min. 27 sec., and TP Tec: 2 min. 30 sec. Tyst, Tal, and Havok were awarded 15, 10, and 5 points respectively. Once under, there is only way back up to the Longsaddle Inn..and that means it was time for the second event: "Find your way Home." Contestants took on the Beholders in either a solo effort or in pairs. The Holders took their share; however, Tyst, Tal, Havok, and ERezendes slew the Holders in solo fights and received 16 points each. After two events, it couldn't have been much closer: 1. Tyst 31 points 2. Talgar 26 points 3. TP Havok 21 points 4. ERezendes 16 points Now, it was time for the band to test their battle skills against one another in a Free for All PvP battle which would decide the champion. All friendship aside, it was gate or be gated!! Sword tripped the fight and the TP'ers entered and established defensive positions (Havok was lost early due to a punt;<). Tyst was the first to fall, clumsied and gated by the spells of Talgar and TP Tec. Mad, Jec, Tal, Erez, and Tec exchanged attacks...ERez fell next to a Slay from Tec..and the reminaing four were assured of points. After over 30 rounds, Talgar was finally held by Tec and gated. Mad stuck Jecele with a Clumsy and a Hold, and she was soon history. Tec planned his attack carefully and got the upper hand with a Cleric Hold Person Spell. His globe gone, Maddie fell victim to the crackling Lightning Bolts of TP Tec, the winner:) For their efforts, the following points were awarded: Tec - 24, Mad - 18, Jec - 14, and Tal - 10. The TP Olympics were over. All the TP'er had given it their best shot, and even though the Punt Monster, NPC's, and even their fellow bretheren claimed some, a great time was had by all. The weary band retreated back to the LS Inn where Sword announced the final results: 1st Place - Talgar 36 pts. 2nd Place - Tyst 31 pts. 3rd Place - TP Tec 24 pts. 4th Place - TP Havok 21 pts. 5th Place - Mad Kzin 18 pts 6th Place - ERezendes 16 pts. 7th Place - Jecele 14 pts. Tal was awarded GOH Access as the Grand Prize Winner. Displaying the true spirit of The Protectorate, Tal graciously donated his prize to Jecele. Tyst and Tec were awarded vouchers for items from the TP Vault. Mad Kzin provided the perfect end to the evening when he bought rounds of ale for everyone in the Inn. Congrats to Talgar, Tyst, Tp Tec, and all of the participants!!! Other TP'ers including Luthyen, Marlaflirt, who..ummm..."accidentally" dispatched Ernie to his eternal resting place, and Gray Lore put in an appearance to cheer on the competitors. WTG, one and all!! Swordshere AGM of The Protectorate(submitted by: SK Torm) I'd like this to be announced in the upcoming news... GREAT WAR UNSANCTIONED ELIMINATIONS UNDERWAY Yes, folks, it's that time again- The Great War, the DEFINING competition of who's better than who at PvP! If you are an unsanctioned guild member, PLEASE encourage your guildmaster to sign your guild up for the Great War! If your guild is planning on participating in this event, mail SK Torm for details and rules, along with 8 members who can attend the PvP fights. I need this mail BY THURSDAY, so get cracking! :D. SK Torm, Great War Unsanctioned Division Coordinator(submitted by: Black Dye) It has come to my attention that many people in the realms seem to have over looked the obvious when it come to being scared. You may be asking yourself "now what does being scared have to do with anything?" I am glad you asked that question! When a player character enters a fight usually containing a Banshee, he/she may become frightened. Now most people know to hit the esc key a couple of times and after 2 rounds they will regain control of there character. The reason one would hit the esc key is the hope that your character will not make a cast while he is scared. New Players what this means is this: A) If you are invis'd and you enter a fight and become scared, you character might cast a spell and you would lose your invis. Now what can you do to help make sure you don't cast a spell while you are scared?? The answer may surprise you newer players and certainly open some of the older players eyes who have forgotten this little trick. What you want to do is this: When you enter the fight and notice you are scared, hit alt-M twice(this turns magic off) then continue to hit the esc key like before. You will find that your character does not cast a spell like he/she might have before. Brought to you by the Evil all love to hate:) DYE<><><><><> <><><><><> 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!! 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!