==========oOo========== NEVERWINTER NEWS Issue # 151 Week Ending 9-15-96 ==========oOo========== *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* FRONT PAGE *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Congratulations to Angilynne for winning last week's News of the Realm contest for her story entitled "Shadowmaster's Fall". Angilynne has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes). Keep up the good work! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> Cause Serious Booth Winner - 9/10 After my troubles with the Rakshasa during the Stormbringer quest, I thought I'd better practice up on my spells. Sending out a call to the realms, I gathered 15 brave souls in the Warehouse District. Wyrmsilver, Mech Riots, Abzzsta1n, Ilysianna, N0rus, Mech Astra, Mech Brand, Gideon Red, Bobpons, Kto Machea, Warr Godd, Omm Azoun, Delyrya, Alriena, and Aldur1 joined me. Spirits and saves were high, and the contest for the one resisting my worst was a close one. Ilysianna managed to only take 14 total points of damage from my 2 casts, winning 5 pearls! :D A special "note" goes to Mech Riots and Aldur1 who entertained us with their Jukebox impressions (everything from ballads to the themes of some oldie TV shows ;) and to Alriena for changing Mech Riots' "records" with a swift kick when it was needed. ;> NW Sparkle <><><><><> <><><><><> Ice Storm Booth - 9/13 NW Lethe leaned against the side of the bridge and watched the morning mist drift slowly across the surface of the waters below. After a time of quiet introspection she made her way back to a small clearing where she knew many mages and wizards were gathering to test the strength of their ice storm spells. Lethe greeted the spellcasters, and listened with interest as a some told tales of their long and difficult journeys prior to their arrival at this contest. As the guardswoman carefully wrote down each of their names, and explained the order of the contest, she marveled at the diversity of their ages, races, and backgrounds. After the formalities had been completed, Lethe inwardly braced herself, for she knew she was to determine the strength of their ice storms by actually being targeted by them. With a quiet resolve she wrapped her cloak around her shoulders, adjusted her scarf and announced the beginning of the competition. Eagle V1iew, a young page from Camelot was the first to cast. The onlookers were amazed at the power of the young man's spells. They knew it would take all of their concentration to surpass such a forceful gale of ice and snow. TCS Dinin was next, then the chivalric KEF Medic, whose charming words could melt all but the most vigilant women's hearts. Windgrey, at tall paladin of the Round Table, hurled towards Lethe a blast of such icy intensity that the young guardswoman was forced backward against columns of ice and snow. As she removed several icicles from her flaxen hair, she announced to all present that Windgrey's blast would be the one to beat. Many others came after... KF Caveman, wielding a sturdy club, the engaging Lrd Markus, the handsome and refined Sir Blade, and the daring Elvenoak. The onlookers gasped as the fair lady SSG Rakora fabricated a blizzard of such magnitude that it almost succeeded in besting Windgrey's. The competition continued, Powermngr crept out of the shadows, his ebony and green cloak hanging loosely about his broad shoulders. His cast was indeed potent, as was Auguststorm's and BD Celtic's, but none could cast a stronger ice storm than the noble paladin, Windgrey. Smiling gently, Windgrey came forward to accept his prize of four coveted pearls. NW Lethe congratulated the winner and wished him, and all who competed fortune in their journeys, before retiring to Lord Nashers' palace. <><><><><> <><><><><> September GoH Booth #1 "The first GoH booth of September had the GoHers try and take either the highest amount of damage, or lowest amount, from Strahd's cause serious wounds spell. Congratulations to Sylverion who took the most, and was given the title "he with the target on his head", and to Jecele who took the least, being dubbed "the most evasive" :)" <><><><><> <><><><><> *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* 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 15th Sunday 8:00 PM EDT - with NWA Mortis. September 17th Tuesday 9:00 PM EDT - with NW Ulfius. September 20th Friday 11:00 PM EDT - with NWA Raven. Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> Come join NW Ember and NW Ulfius for the September edition of: <<>><<>> Who/What/Am/I <<>><<>> Thurs. September 19th at 10 pm ET in the Great Hall Tavern. Prizes: First Place: 25 Pearls + 4 hours Second Place: 20 Pearls + 3 hours Third Place: 15 Pearls + 2 hours Winners of First thru Third place will also receive GOH access! Cya There! NW Ember and NW Ulfius <><><><><> <><><><><> Congratulations to Angilynne for winning last week's News of the Realm contest for the story "Shadowmaster's Fall". Angilynne has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes). Keep up the good work! ;D Shadowmaster's Fall - Part 2 (submitted by: Angilynne) It was in the early morning when Nang awoke her for the second day of touring the mines. She stretched languidly and smiled slightly at the fealty and loyalty of her small companion. He had arrived exactly when he had said he would arrive. After rising from the bed and dressing, she looked over the sheaf of papers he had brought from the house. Most of the bore Laele's insignia and, aside from the one from Phyrra, she opened these first. A frown creased her forehead as she read the one of Rilynt'tar's mercenary army disbanding. The malla ilharess Jasra Dark was too canny to allow such a thing to happen without her knowledge and, though the two houses teetered on the brink of war, Angilynne still had the utmost respect for her. Still, appearances must be kept... "Nang, " she said, "find a runner for me. I have a scroll to be taken to the third house." Nang arched an eyebrow slightly in response. He still had not heard about the occurence of the night before and knew that words between the two houses had trickled almost to a standstill. He wondered for a moment, what message his mistress had for the Ilharess of the third house, but he knew that it was not his place to ask. "Your will, malla yathrin, " he stated. He turned and crossed to the door, shutting it quietly behind him. Angilynne sat at the small desk that Mataga provided for her during her infrequent visits. She penned a brief message outlining what had happened the night before and informing Jasra of the gross misbehavior of her veldruk. She shook her head, slightly. There had been little chance of peaceful resolution before. There would probably be none now. She sighed and thought, "Then let it come. We cannot shy away and there is still much to do." And she was relieved that she had gone ahead and done what she and the ilharn of Faen-Tlabbar had planned. This might go a long way in turning the tide in the favor of the alliance. She turned her attention to the other scrolls. Most were routine matters of business that Laele had handled swiftly and without incident. She smiled. That was good. Laele was competent, as well as fierce. The house would need that in these times as well as anything else. Nang returned, telling her that he had found an orc runner willing to make the trip to Rilauven. He stood aside from her for a moment, then cleared his throat in some consternation. "Malla Yathrin, " he queried, "if this is an important missive, should I not be the one to carry it?" She glanced at him in brief surprise, "Nau, Nang... it is precisely the nature of the message that dissuades me from having you bear it. The Malla Ilharess, Jasra Dark, will, in all likelihood, slay the messenger who carries this." He nodded, "Yes, malla yathrin. I understand." She nodded and sealed the scroll, "Take this to him. We leave for the mines within the hour." "Your will, malla yathrin, " and he was gone again. *** They arrived at the mines in the early morning. The duergar administrator was there to greet them with a sour expression on his face. He, apparently, was not taking well to his new position. She smiled, internally. He would in time and he would do the job better than any other here. Of that, she was certain. They exchanged compulsory greetings and he escorted them to the second mine to be surveyed. It went much as the day before had. She found more of what she was looking for and, once again, told them to keep the scrap in excess. He relayed the orders and the miners, though not understanding the strange request, hastened to comply. The tour was swifter this time and they had reached one of the many sublevels by mid-afternoon. She glanced at the administrator, "You are used to a midday meal at this time, are you not?" "Aye, Malla Yathrin, " he replied. "We usually eat around this time, but I'm happy to be finishin' if that's what ye wish." She shook her head, "Nau... go and eat. I wish to look around some more down here, though. Join me as soon as you have completed your repast." He gave her a slightly queer look, "Beggin' the malla yathrin's pardon, but are ye sure? There's nothin' much down here." She smiled tolerantly, "I am sure. Go ahead." He departed, leaving her and Nang to themselves. She walked around the dimly lit shaft and found a pick. "Nang, " she said, softly, "use this. See if you can find more of this." She gestured at the material in the scrap heap. He nodded and hefted the pick. He began to quickly dig and soon uncovered what it was they sought. "There is much of it here, " he stated. "I would not venture a guess, but..." They continued for many minutes, attempting to project the amount. Neither noticed, at first, the shadows seeming to unfurl from the walls behind them. *** Ryltarl had spent a sleepless night and a nervous morning. He knew what he had done. He knew that there was no going back. He knew that unless he killed the first daughter of Fey-Branche, he might never see Rilauven alive again. There had been much quiet talk in back rooms of late, much positioning and maneuvering. He knew that this was not how the Ilhar would start it... but if he succeeded... He saw them as he stepped from the shadows and he knew that it was his best chance to take her. Concentrating fiercely, the shadows awakened to his command, flowing toward her, threatening to steal the life from her. Then, without warning, of its own volition, the flute, the CURSED flute shrieked a warning to her and she spun and saw her danger. She dove backward and slipped, teetering over the brink of a deep, deep shaft. Nang, more concerned with the obvious threat, leapt his mistress' attacker and through sheer ferocity, he managed to gain a hold on the Veldruk's throat. Ryltarl stared at the tiny kobold in absolute shock. "Wha-?" he managed, before his air was abruptly cut off. The two struggled for a brief second before Ryltarl tore the tiny creature from his throat. Gasping, he saw the small chunk of black flesh lodged in the kobold's grip and snarled, hurling Nang over the precipice of the shaft. "Nang!" shouted the Ust-Daharil of Fey-Branche. She saw the kobold sailing downward and knew that she had only seconds to act before he landed on the hard floor far beneath. Kicking straight down, she hurled herself after the kobold while Ryltarl gaped at the sight of one of the highest ranked priestesses in the temple hurl herself after a small rothe. He ran to the brink and watched the event as it unfolded. To her dismay, after the initial acceleration, she was not catching up to the kobold. He looked up at her with absolute trust. He knew that she would save him. He knew it. Looking past him, she saw the stone floor of the shaft rushing up to meet them. She could save herself at any time... The walls rushed by as the descent continued. She reached down and pulled a grappling hook out from the bag the administrator had given her earlier. Whipping it around, she hurled it at Nang and heard his yell of pain as the metal hook buried itself in her shoulder... Only feet now... "KVREATHHRASELL!!" she shouted and the sudden rush down was slowed, almost halted. She heard another snarl of pain from Nang and the Hook tore further through his should as his momentum was suddenly halted. They touched the floor of the shaft and he collapsed in agony. She pulled a flask from her personal bag and forced it into his grasp. "Drink it!" she snarled. He shook his head, "You might need it. He is still up there." "Drink it before you bleed to death!" she hissed. "I have prayed for no healing spells... you must DRINK THIS!!" Nang attempted to protest once more, but it quickly turned into a watery gargle as she dumped the contents of the flask unceremoniously down his throat. He immediately felt the cooling effects of the potion sennd cooling relief through the fiery agony of the wound. He relaxed against the floor and sighed. Angilynne stood up and looked to the toop of the chasm. Ryltarl was gone. *** They made their way along the base for some time, picking their way slowly, knowing the shadowmaster might come from anywhere. The potion's effect, though dramatic, had not healed the ghastly shoulder wound entirely and Nang could not move his left arm. They both knew he would cast no spells this day. They spotted him again after about half an hour perched atop a small bridge that crossed the cavern. A lot of the cockiness had returned to his demeanor and he snickered as he looked down at them. "Most dramatic, malla yathrin, " he called. "But you have trapped yourself. What do you intend to do now?" She grimly offered no response and saw a small pathway to the top of the chasm... a way out. She knew he had already seen it and had waited for her here for that very reason, but she did not want to chance not finding another and this being the only way out. She gestured and Nang nodded. Ryltarl grinned, "Ah... I see you have discovered the way to the top. I should have known such a wise and powerful yathrin would not miss the obvious." Again, she made no reply, Ryltarl paused briefly and a look of annoyance crossed his features, "Are you mute? You had much to say last night!" Finally, she looked up, "As did you." Ryltarl shrugged, "Perhaps so, if you..." She interrupted him, "You have cast aside all that you are and all that you might have become. How does that feel?" He shook his head, "Nau, Angilynne... there is a way out for me." She shook her head as she reached the top and stood across the bridge from him, "Nau... there is not." Her eyes faded to black. *** They met in the center of the bridge, her flail clashing against his blade. Her teeth gritted as she took the brunt of his rush and it drove her back exactly two paces before she turned it. Shadows lashed out at her from the side and the back and she felt the flute warm at her side. "Your playthings are nullified, " she whispered. "What else do you have?" He grinned, "Many things, Yathrin... tricks upon tricks upon tricks..." She shook her head and spun around, lashing out with the flail, a death blow had it landed... but it did not. He had used the shadows to escape again. "ILLIMUNECE, " she said and the place was bathed in light, casting all the shadows away. He stood across the bridge from her, crouched over Nang, a grimace of hatred on his face for the small creature that had wounded him. He started and looked up in surprise at the sudden brilliance. Angilynne walked through it. She had spent most of her adult life, before consuming the Oloth, in light such as this. Drow spent all of the lives, for the most part, in the pitch black and gloomy Underdark. Ryltarl staggered backward, taking time to adjust to the light. Her lightning bolt seared through him. "Arrrgghhh!" he shouted and stumbled away. Nang scrambled for the bridge and, almost instinctively, the veldruk grabbed the small kobold's ankle and spun him back around. Whipping his small blade out, he pressed it against the kobold's throat. "You move, he dies, " he hissed. Angilynne frowned, "He is a rothe. His death is a matter of no import." Ryltarl chuckled, "Your actions earlier belie your words. I do not think you would have made that leap if his death did not matter to you." Angilynne inched forward, gauging the distance, "Perhaps..." He did not hesitate, "One more step and he is food for worms." She smiled slightly, "I do not need one more step." And Ryltarl, for the first time, knew that death was here. *** Destroy him, she prayed. Finish this male. Take the sacrifice I offer to you and bring chaos to your realm. Take him, Quarval-Sharess, and let loose the tides of time and war upon your chosen. This is my sacrifice. This is my gift. I bring you what you have sent me to do. And, in that moment, she could see those eyes that had haunted her for so long peering down upon her once again. But this time, she sensed the approval within them as if, for the first time, the seer knew that the seen had learned the first and most vital lesson. Bring Chaos and Please Me. Angilynne knew, at that moment, as he slipped into the embrace of the Queen, that chaos was coming, indeed. And she knelt. And she prayed. Give me strength, Quarval-Sharess, and I will give you them all. And in her mind, she could hear the sound of echoing, deafening laughter. The fallen veldruk lay before her. *** Nang brought her from her reverie, "Malla Yathrin, we must away... surely there are those who felt him fall." She nodded, "There are and we will. But first..." She dragged the body of the veldruk a few paces away and peered downward, "Do you knw what this is, Nang?" He looked down, "Aye, Malla Yathrin, there are many of them in the tunnels beneath the Spine of the World where I was born. It is a Glory Hole." She nodded, "It is said that if you drop something into them, they fall forever... perhaps all the way to the Abyss itself." He nodded and saw what she wished. Gently, he pushed the shadowmaster to the edge... and over. And Ryltarl fell into the shadows forever. Angilynne Ust-Daharil Fey-Branche Second House RilauvenMemories from my Childhood (submitted by: Tyo Ark) The almost silent padding of feet, the utter stillness of the wood. The slight whistle of wind among the trees towering hundreds of feet above. The slanted rays of light barely penetrating the gloom which is the woods of Neverwinter. I've always been a thief, a liar and a cheat. One could say I was born to a life of crime. My brother, Victor was equally well endowed, and I suppose the two of us kept each other from straying to far from the path of Brigandry. Born we were in some small shanty, in some small town. To a wretched woman who our father had left for reasons not really worth mentioning. We grew up orphans, having only each other to depend upon. We were the typical street irchins, caked in mud and rather skinny. As most people in our situation have done, we turned to whatever means we could to survive. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ It was yet another day in a seemly endless winter, the rain pounded upon the torn up turf of Triboar, as people made their ways through the town's plaza. I was huddled between some trash, watching people come and go, looking for an opportunity to show itself. I kept my eyes hovering around the Triboar Jeweler's, for often you could catch a merchant too worried about the rain, or mud and not worried enough about his purse. As I put my hand to me brow to shield my eyes from the weather, I saw a man enter the Jeweler's. He was fairly well dressed, sporting a fine hat which was obviously going to ruin in the torrent of water that was spilling from the skies. He had a belt of silver, and wore no obvious weapons. Of course that purple cloak of his covered up most of his body, making an accurate account of his personal arms difficult. Dodging in between man and hoof, I worked my way over to the Jeweler's window, where I could watch the man inside the store in more detail. I could make out his back, and Aaron, the jeweler facing him at the counter. From what little I could make out through the rain spattered windows, and the gloom of torch smoke inside, I saw the man plop a sack on the counter, and spill the contents out on the counting table. My eyes shown with greed, as I watched all that glittering platinum. And I could hardly keep myself under control as I watched the little exchange. Slowly and methodically, Aaron counted out the platinum, and when he was finished placed it in a sack of his own. At this point he made his way to the back of the store and returned with another sack. The man took a quick glance inside, nodded and began to make his way out of the store. The door to Aaron's jewelry shop opened and closed, and out came the man who I had seen enter. The sack which had been handed to him earlier was no where to be seen, obviously hidden in the folds of his cloak. Dashing up to the man and putting on my most pitiful face, I said to him. "Good day to ye gent', could ye spare a few coins to a boy orphaned at birth, and who has no home but the streets?" Glancing down at me, the man met my gaze, and his eyes shown like the jewels contained in that sack of his. "I have no coins for you boy, get out of my way" he said to me, no look of sympathy in his eyes at all. "But surely sir, you must have a few. I'm in dire need of some food milord, I haven't eaten in several days, I'm beggin you kind sir." I continued, trying my best to act pitiful, hungry and down on my luck all at once. Most of this wasn't very difficult, since it was indeed the truth. "How could such a rich man as yerself, who deals with Aaron himself not have a few coins on his person? And what more of a honorable and humble deed then to give those coins to a boy in need sir?" I wheedled, trying to draw whatever sympathy I could out of the man. Reaching down into his belt pouch, the man withdrew several silver pieces, which he handed to me. "There you go boy, go and get yourself something to eat and leave people alone now would you?" He chided me. "Oh yes, sir. Thank you sir, very generous of you!" I informed the man, and quickly left his presence before he could start to change his mind. Happily, I stuck the few silver pieces in my pants pocket and began trotting to the Triboar inn and public house's back door, where perhaps I could convince the cook to spare me a few tidbits in exchange for the silver. As I worked my way down the alley to the inn, I smiled with the realization that tonight I would eat well. So, consumed was I in my day dream of a hot meal, that I failed to notice my surroundings. "Whoa there Tyo, where do ya think you are going, eh?" The words quickly brought me out of my daydream, and back into reality with astounding speed. In front of me were two of the town's local bullies. Orphan's like myself, but older, bigger, tougher and unfortunately... more prolific. "Well, I was jist going down to the well ta get myself a drink." I lied, hoping to get past them with out much trouble. At this, they laughed at me. "Is that so now, ya littl' welp? Methinks yer goin' ta get yerself somethin ta eat with the money ya just begged off the man back there!" Bellowed the bully. "Begged money of a man? I dare say, I did try, but he didn't give me anything the bastage." "Is that so? Well, then you won't mind if I take a look inside yer pockets now will yas?" Growled the leader of the two. "Well yes indeed I do mind, ya better jist be finding yerself someone else's pockets to look in ya worthless cretin!" I yelled, and putting up my fists made myself ready to fight. Laughing, they put up their dukes and proceeded to trounce me. I'd like to say I won, but unfortunately I did not, in a matter of minutes they had me down on the ground bawling for mercy. Which, they gladly gave to me after relieving me of my few silver pieces. Bleeding and soaked with mud I lay their on the ground where they had left me, quietly I sobbed to myself and muttered... "It's not fair, it's just not fair" - TyoPeace (submitted by: KF Bossman) The days...they become so lonly, the nights, even lonlier. ~Boss I can smell it now, the scent is clear, the aroma unmistakable. I have finally made it...Port Llast harbor. I have come to clear my head. The events, or lack there of, in the past few days, have left me..cumbersome. I worry..not only for my brothers, but for all...all who walk the realms. What will become of this place if we, the Knights of Freedom, cannot keep the peace, the law, the order? As hard as I try, the thoughts cannot escape my head, so I try and deal with them as best I can. Taking a seat near the river, I calm myself and look out over the horizon. It is near mid-day now, and the river is still, making my thoughts drift away to a more personal nature.....a slight smile crosses my face, as I think of my salvation, my love. It eases my mind, but not entirely. 'This situation must be resolved' I think 'before me and my lady can have any peace together, before I can turn my full attentions to her.' Lowering my head, I stride back to the doors of Freedom Hall, intending to set things straight..... .....en rout to Freedom Hall, I feel a slight breeze cross my face. A breeze that seems to differ from that of the flow of the mid-day air. Grabbing the hilt of my sword, I move in to investigate. Peering through the bushes, I see a pack of Wolves surrounding a young warrior. The warrior is fighting bravely, but cannot withstand the full attack, so I jump into the fray and draw my sword. The wolves are dispatched easily, and after the battle, I sheath my sword and turn to study the scene. I notice five men standing around the battle...just watching, as if they wanted the warrior to perish. After the battle was over, they turned and walked away, displaying a retched smile ... The warrior proceded to thank me, and wandered off into the distance, probably off to the nearby inn, leaving me to my thoughts. I could not help but think what would of happened to the warrior had not I been there. It was not a difficult task for my obvious skills, dispatching a few wolves ... so I wonder why the men standing around the fight did not help. And I wonder...if there was never a Knight of Freedom, what would of happened to the warrior, and all the other warriors that need assistance....... Striding away, I get back on the trail twoards Neverwinter. The sun is beating down hard now, and I find it hard to keep in pace. Passing by the inn in Windycliff, I notice the warrior resting, and it brings a little peace to me, knowing that I helped someone who needed it. I waved, and went upon my way. Lately, this ole town just hasn't been the same. I think back to a time when this realm felt whole ... when it was warm, and it's atmosphere greeted you with open arms. Now, it is cold and unforgiving. As I make way back to the gates in Windycliff, I pass many a group of young promissing adventurers. They declined the help that I offered, so I passed around them. But I could not help but reminise a bit when I saw them. Remembering the days when I was that young, and remembering when I traveled with my friends, not for gold, not for treasure, but for the pure enjoyment of walking the realms. Ahhh..such a long time ago. Passing the gate, I make way into the city of Neverwinter, and make way up to Freedom Hall. It's big oaken doors seem almost vacant in a way. Before entering, I glance around at the wonderus city...it to has changed in many ways. Noticing now, many more guild halls, I lower my head, and make way to my chambers. As I enter my room, I notice my dearest Suzette sitting, waiting for me. A smile draws to my face as we embrace. I know she feels the same sorrow that crosses my brow, and it warms me that we have each other to comfort the sorrow. Taking her hand, I lead her out to the back of the building. There, we take seats outside, and stare up at the wonderus mid-day sky...... ......A shiver runs up my spine, and awakens me. Eyes still half shut, I glance around at my surroundings. Looking down, I see Suzette, still sleeping in my arms. Not wanting to wake her from her slumber, I lifted her light body, and carried her to her quarters. There I put her on her bed, covered her up, and kissed her goodnight. Making my way out of the room, and closing the door behind me, I stride to my own quarters. Taking a seat at my desk, I feel uneasy. I cannot rest, not yet. Something inside of me is stiring...something, but what. Grasping my sword belt, I head out into the night air. East I go..towards a town with the name..Floodbest. Many years it has been since I have been here..possibly too many. I stroll down the path until I make it to the inn. Passing by, I glance inside. Many youngsters, eager for a fresh fight, eager for blood. I shudder at the thought of some of their intentions, and pass on by. Making my way past the trading post, which be closed for the night, I came upon a youngster in a rather large fight. His name was Voyager. He looked as though he had encountered a few to many monsters at once, and he needed a hand. Without hesitation, I jumped into the fray. Slicing and dicing the bugbears until the Cloud Giant came into view. I watched as Voyager almost stopped in his tracks when he saw it, but he had the fighting spirit, so he charged on. And that's when it hit me..something that hasn't hit me for a while. Standing side by side with this Voyager, I felt...I felt my youth. After the battle, a rather large smile crossed my face. I was, for once in a long time, at ease. I wandered the rest of the night with the man called Voyager, teaching him a few things, and him teaching me a few too. In the end, I made way back to my home..Freedom Hall. I could look upon the great monument with a little more dignity now, with a little more pride. As I entered the great oaken doors, my love, Suzette, rushed up and embraced me. I calmed her down, and led her back to her chambers. Although this night brought me something, there must be many more like this before we could be ... worry free, before we could just be free...... ~Boss Poem of Maxxing BD Mcain (submitted by: BD Piper) Mcain, Mcain of notorized fame How does your maxxing go? With great success I must confess Am puttin on a grand ole show!! BD Piper (hee, hee) The Rose of Selinia - Part 1 (submitted by: TP Havok) Date: Todays Time: Morning Place: Neverwinter Square Havok walks in Nashers office. "Greetings Milord Nasher.", Havok said bowing. "Hi there young Knight. How are you today?" "Fine Milord. Do you have a minute?", Havok asked smiling. "Sure Havok, please sit down. Care for anything to drink?", Nasher asked motioning Havok to sit in a chair. "No thank you sire. I come to you seeking advice.", Havok sat. Nasher tilted his head listening. "I seek a special gift for a special friend, Milord. Something rare and beautiful like her, something that would be charished and loved and that would never die.", Havok said. "Rare and beautiful and that will never die?", he asked with a smile. "Your not getting romantic now are ye? Havok blushed, "What ever gave you that idea Milord?" Nasher laughed. "You come to me seeking interesting advice Sir Knight. Although I do have a few ideas for you to concider." Havok squirmed in his chair, seeming to be uncomfortable. "Well first of all what you seek is love. For you, love is all that you asked... rare, beautiful, everlasting, and twould certainly be cherished if it were to the right person. Havok looked down in contemplation. "But I can see you were thinking of some physical object, a tolken of your fellings for this special person in your life." Havok looked up toward Nasher. "Yes Milord that is what I had in mind, although what you said about love does seem to hit the mark as well. Doest thou have anthing in mind other than love, Milord?" "Well actually I do Knight Havok, although tis an extreamly dangerous quest. Only Paladins and Rangers stand any chance of surviving such a task. Most Cleric/Mages in the realms would never even set out on this quest. The danger is extream, 1 in 50 of your skill survive.", Nasher said shaking his head. "1 in 50?", Havok asked. "Sounds like my kind of odds. May even be a fair fight." Nasher laughed. "I'm serious Havok. The danger is beyond any you have yet challenged in the Realms. The item I speak of is protected by many Dracoliches, many many Dracoliches." A concerned look crossed Havoks smiling face. "How many is many? More than four?" Nasher nodded. "The item you seek is the Golden Rose of Serina. Tis a living flower said to have exsisted for over a thousand years. It was created long ago by the powerful sorceress Serinia. She didnt actually plan to create this flower, it all happened by accident. You see the flower came into exsistance as she died fighting the very same Dracs I'm speaking of." "I could never pick such a flower Milord Nasher.", Havok said with a look of surprise. "Were that the case Havok I would most cetainly agree. The flower it self is not part of a living plant. It lives as a cut rose, free of bush or roots." Havok gasped. ......... "Tis certainly a manificent flower to live a thousand years with no roots Milord." "Yes, legend says that when Serinia died all her magic was sucked into a rose she was carrying and caused it to turn gold and wither not." "I wish to know of the location of such a Rose Milord?", Havok said with determination. "Hehe, I thought you might. Although I know of the general vicinity of the Drac lair, I know not its actuall location. That information you will have to seek elsewhere Sir Havok. The Drac lair is somewhere in the woods to the east. Although north, south, east or west I know not. I'm sure you will find someone that has the knowledge you need to complete your quest." Havok stood. "Milord Nasher you have beed a great help to me. Ifd ever there is aught you need from me let me know." "Take care Havok, safe travels." Havok left. "Now to find Lord Tyst, he'll know the location of those Dracs." (to be continued) Pick a Part: A Poem (submitted by: SOL Bard) Sad little buckets made mostly from rust I've some guidelines for you of which readings a must Before you go out to do battle with SOL Tell us where to send your parts for you won't come back whole The gyros, antennas, the bolts and the nuts And the other tin parts as we kick on your butts If there was a recyler I would know what to do We could sell them the scraps for a dollar or two It may just be best if we melt it all down To make knives, forks, and spoons to be passed all around For you will most certainly eat it when we meet man to mech So in jest we will use you to eat with, by heck.. But your heads, thats the challenge for just what shall we do With each empty brain case that we take off of you Trashcans would be good, but your heads are too small So I guess there will be spitoons to be placed in each hall Just do us a favor as we pick you apart And we hope you'll abide with us right from the start Please empty your bladders and I ask you make haste For we don't wish to slip in your fluidic waste Sol Bard Warrior Poet The Search for Willo (submitted by: Thorn Hawk) As I felt the call, I had just finished my morning exercises and prayers in a small glade outside of Triboar. I had felt it only once before, deep within the woods, on my way to Neverwinter for the first time. I knew what it was and heeded it at once. Grabbing my gear and clothing, I starting a loping run to the West. My goddess, Mielikki, had called. Making good time, I arrived at the town of Crossergate a week after leaving Triboar. Entering the deserted town in the early hours of dawn, I halted to decide on my next course. I felt a strong pull toward the North and Neverwinter.... Green eyes flashing through my mind, I didn't notice the pack of dogs surrounding me. I cursed my luck and prepared to meet them. Drawing destiny and gesturing, I summoned a mirror image of myself to confuse these white wolves. Suddenly, a ball of fire blossomed from my fingers killing many of the dogs and wounding others. Attacking from all sides, the few remaining wolves tried to confuse me with their flanking attack. I sidestepped one killing it with a thrust of my sword while the rest fled into the woods looking for easier prey. Departing Crossergate heading North on the main road, I met few travelers along the route to Vilnask. One merchant did tell me about a great evil in Vilnask and to watch my step. I passed this off as rumor and superstition, but he did mention the kidnaping of someone. I felt a tug from the North knowing that my summons had something to do with this. I pressed on with renewed vigor. I continued to Neverwinter passing Vilnask two days later. I entered the small inn in the south part of Neverwinter as the sun set in the west. "Innkeeper, do you have any rooms this eve?" I asked, noticing the innkeeper walking into the main room from the kitchen. "Aye sir, I have a few left," he replied, "would you be needing one for the night?" "I will need just one room for myself and a bath," I answered, "I will take dinner in the common room after my bath." "Very good sir," he nodded in reply taking my money and calling a young girl over to show me to my room. A hot bath was drawn while I unpacked my meager amount of gear. Being a ranger, I didn't have too much in the way of material wealth besides my sword and armor. Sitting on the floor, I opened a small leather bound book with a miniature white unicorn pressed into the cover and began glancing over the spells I would later study for the coming battles. By this time, my bath was ready and I wasted no time scrubbing all the trail dust from my body. Feeling clean, I headed down stairs in a clean pair of buckskin pants and a red shirt with white snow flakes embroidered on the cuffs and collar. The smells of roast mutton and fowl greeted me as I took a seat at a small table near the hearth. After my dinner of roasted duck and greens with some sort of peppers, I sat and listened to the surprisingly talented bard sing songs about heroes of old until my eyelids began to droop. I headed for my room knowing tomorrow would be a long one. Feeling refreshed and clean, I headed into the heart of Neverwinter the next day looking for the cause on my summons. The central square, or heart of Neverwinter, is where people gather and prepare to brave the unknown outside the walls of the city. It was to this heart that I headed. The square was packed with people from mercenaries to shopkeepers, as usual this time of day. A vague sensation caused me to turn toward the castle and the source of this unease. It was a young man and an elf. I had found my reason for being within Neverwinter. I approached the pair noting that one was dressed in a great forest cape, probably a ranger, the other an elf dressed in a simple robe. As I explained my reason for being here, the ranger, one Krystain, told me him and his friend, Phaje, were here awaiting my arrival. Smiling, I knew the goddess had her hands in this meeting. "I am on a quest to find Willo, a smith of some renown," explained Krystain. "The smith you seek lives in Vilnask, a town South of Neverwinter," I replied, "I could show you and Phaje the way if you like?" Smiling, Krystain and Phaje agreed so we headed out of Neverwinter toward Vilnask. We entered the forest south of Neverwinter following the trade route toward Waterdeep. The road was in need of repair due to recent rains and lack of use by merchant trains heading to Neverwinter to sell their wares. I sign along the road said Vilnask and pointed south. As we traveled through the trees, I noticed none of the trees had any life among their branches. No sound could be heard in the foliage to either side of us suggesting life of some kind. I felt an unease in these woods. Looking around, I noticed it was shared by my companions. Suddenly, amidst the trees, dire wolves appeared to surround us in an instant. Blades flashed in the morning sun as we prepared to defend ourselves. Many of the wolves dropped to a spell cast by Phaje, while others fell to the blades of Krystain and myself. Glancing around, I caught sight of two wolves melting back into the underbrush leaving to find other prey. Collecting gear that was dropped during battle, we continued our journey toward Vilnask. Arriving in Vilnask at sunset, we made for the inn knowing that Willo's shop would be closed this late in the day. Having fought only one other battle in the woods outside of town, we were in a good mood as we entered the inn. We unpacked our gear and headed downstairs. We ate barbecued pork and drank frenzies to the delight of my companions once they got used to the taste. After our meal, I called the innkeeper to our table to find out where this Willo might be found. A frightened look crossed his face as he made a sign against evil, "sir, the blacksmith has disappeared." "What do you mean, disappeared?" I asked. "He just disappeared one day a few weeks back. He was in his shop working when his wife went to check on him, noticing how quiet his workroom had become. Thinking something had happened to him, she went in to find him missing. These are bad times, stranger, and evil magic is loose in our town. I suggest you ask Willo's wife if you have more questions. Their home is just down the street from the inn." "Thank you, sir," I replied, turning to my companions to see looks of worry upon their faces. "Least now we know why we are here." We headed for our rooms to prepare for the coming search and likely battles. Phaje, pulling a book from his pack, began studying spells, while Krystain sharpened his sword. I handed Phaje two bracers to help him in battle. They were magical and protected the wearer like armor. Sitting, I also began studying spells. The morning dawned with rain falling steadily as we made our way to a house the innkeeper had pointed out when we left. Knocking on the door, Krystain found himself looking into the red, tired eyes of a blond woman, who had been crying. "Ma'am, we are here looking for Willo, the blacksmith." "He just disappeared," she sobbed, a fresh outburst of crying followed. She explained finding him missing from his workshop when she went to check on him. "There is only one door into that room and he didn't come out," she cried, "it was evil magic that took my husband from me. Will you find my husband? I worry about him. I know he is not dead or I would have felt it. Please, find him," she wailed. "We will try, milady," I assured her, "with Mielikki's blessing." Entering the workshop, we set about looking for clues to the disappearance of Willo. The shop was orderly and well kept. A forge stood in one corner, various tools lined the walls, and a rack of completed weapons was arranged against the far wall. "Over here, I think I found something," cried Phaje. Krystain and I came over to the wall where Phaje stood. "I think this is a secret door," Phaje told us, "see the faint line along this seam," as he pointed along a crack in the wall. "We need to find the catch, though." We quickly found the catch releasing the door which revealed a small room. Preparing for the worst, we entered the small room and found a door heading deeper into the unknown. The place we found ourselves in stank of old evil. Saying a small prayer to Mielikki, I drew my sword and prepared to confront this evil and find Willo. I noticed the same look on the faces of Krystain and Phaje. I took the point with Phaje next and Krystain bringing up the rear. In our first encounter, we were ambushed by a group of krakens. These, Phaje quickly put to sleep. It was then I noticed the glowing figure moving out of the wall toward us. I cast a quick spell only to have it disappear on motes of light when it hit the banshee. Krystain, being scared, ran from the room screaming. Phaje just stood there watching the figure approach. I shrugged off my failed spell, charged the banshee with sword flashing, killing her with a thrust through the chest. As we searched the bodies, Krystain entered, swing his sword, only to find the battle over. "Kill them all without me." "That we did, O' fearer of evil," teased Phaje. We continued finding nothing of interest on the krakens. I felt the giant before we entered the next room. A quick battle followed as two fireballs destroyed all but the one giant. Krystain killed it with a swing of his sword. We continued only to find more monsters blocking our way further into this lair of evil. Lizards, rats, wild boars, and snakes tried to impede our progress to no avail. We stopped to rest after our latest battle with a couple of giant snakes. "Do you feel it?" asked Krystain, unease in his voice. Nodding, I looked to see Phaje lost in the study of his spells. We pressed on after resting for a couple of hours to eat and study our spell books. We wandered through a twisting hallway and came to a large room shrouded in darkness. A faint tingling along my spine was the only warning I had before being transported deeper into this hidden catacomb. Finding myself in a room surrounded by stirges and the largest mammoth I had seen, I prepared to cast a spell. As the mammoth moved to attack me, I noticed the fallen bodies of Phaje and Krystain surrounded by dead stirges. The mammoth gored me with one of its tusks ruining my spell and causing me to dodge for my life. I sidestepped barely avoiding a foot as it came crashing down where I had been standing moments before. I swung my sword at the behemoth doing minimal damage at best against such a large creature. I needed to cast a spell, but could not find the time nor breath as this mammoth continued its assault I felt the words of power flowing past my lips as the mammoth charged. Time seemed to freeze. A searing pain erupted in my side, the spell escaped my lips, sending me into darkness . . . I awoke, wrapped in bandages, to find myself in a room. Krystain and Phaje lay on similar beds to either side of me sleeping. I remember being brought to the inn by someone, I don't remember who, late at night. I knew we had failed to find Willo. Wincing as I got out of bed, I looked out the window. The sun was just setting and the rain had stopped. I wondered how many days I had slept. I still felt the call of my goddess. Knowing that our mission was not yet finished, I glanced at my two companions, thinking about Willo. I lay back on my bed. The sun would rise tomorrow and we would continue. I watched the sun set seeing a mammoth charge . . . Thorn Hawk, Brotherhood of Pathfinders Embrace - Part 1 (submitted by: Abk Sonja1) Sonja layed sound asleep in she and Storm's bed. She could feel Storm move about the bed. She tried to pull herself from the depths of her dream, but could not. Sonja's dreams, as of late, had been strange. In the dream, She could see the blue sky and a man standing on a hill in a distance. He stood laughing a magestic laugh, as if he was victorious in a manner Sonja did not understand. And, as all the dreams, Sonja was in a trance and could not stop herself from obeying the stranger's every command. He would command her to come to him. Sonja, in her mind, would scream no, but her body would refuse to listen. Sonja could feel herself move toward him. The closer she got, the more she realized that this man was pure evil. And in each dream, when she reached the man, still not seeing his face, she would awake hastenly to find herself in control. But this particular night, Sonja only approached a diminutive amount toward the stranger, as she heard Storm start to shout loudly. Sonja awoke startled and looked towards Storm. "Love, what be it you yell about at this time at night?" Sonja asked bothersomely. "Where did you get these roses?" Storm asked as he pointed toward the vase of roses. Sonja stared at the lovely roses, which had not faded or dropped one petal since she received them from the stranger. She then turned to Storm, Sonja saw tears start to form in Storm's eyes. She dashed to Storm to comfort him. "Love, they were a gift. That is all," she said still confused from Storm's reactions. Storm then turned to her with tears falling from his swollen eyes, due to the lack of sleep, and simply shook his head. Sonja stared confusingly at Storm, as he stood and bagan to pace to and fro on the wooded floors. "You must be careful. And do not accept gifts from those you do not know or trust!" Sonja became frightened and worried. "But, But...," Sonja said when Storm interrupted her. "Please, love, I worry about you," Storm said while sat beside her. "Love I shall agree to this, but I am confused as of what has happen as of late. I am aware that you are quite busy with guild matters, but something else is troubling you. Something that you are not telling me." "Love, i do not want to frighten you," Storm said caringly. "If it is bothering you, then I wish to know the troubling matter." Storm sat with Sonja and he began to tell her the hideous tale of Akerndirth. However, in this tale, there was no ending, as it was still continuing and told from day to day. Sonja, after hearing the tale, started to cry. Storm was quick to gather his thoughts to comfort her. Sonja was scared of what was to come in the future. Storm knew this as he looked at the fragile woman that he called love. Storm and Sonja watched the sun come up, as they both had no intentions of sleep. This would be a night that Sonja would not soon forget, as from that moment, she looked at life in a different aspect. One that feared the future and that would cherish the time she spent with her love. ~\/~ABK SONJA~\/~ A Valentine (submitted by: Capybarra) Suddenly she sensed the presence of evil close to her yet again. This evil was so much stronger, for while some wished only to prove their superiority, this one she feared wanted to corrupt her very soul, although he would never quite make it clear to her what he wished. And so she fled to Camelot immediately, feeling that there at least she would be safe. What were these blood-sucking birds doing outside the gates of the castle? What were these skeletons in the courtyard? And the zombies in the squires' quarters? It had been long since her last visit home. She reminded herself to tell the squires to pay more attention to the care of the grounds, and to keep a more vigilant watch over the gates. When at last she found herself in the great hall, there were the Lady Coral and the squire Sir Str. She was pleased to see she was not alone, and she spoke to them of this and that. She looked at Coral, one of the finest ladies in the realms, always dressed in the most exclusive clothes, draped in sparkling jewelry. She blushed as she brushed the dirt from her travel-worn dress, straining at the seams as her pregnancy continued. She dared to speak of it. "Coral, should I change my dress more than once a month?" "Oh, Capy!" Coral cried, "I wish you had had a female sponsor!" The lady rummaged in her bag, and pulled out a list of cleaners. "I need to take you shopping I think." "Yes Coral, I have only the three dresses." Capy reached in her bag and pulled out the yellow dress, just as dirty as the red one, and her mourning dress, which she had not worn for some time. This one, at least, was clean, and its voluminous folds would more than adequately cover her figure, no longer quite as trim as it once had been. She asked Str to turn his back as she donned the black dress, and then handed him the two dirty dresses and the list of cleaners. "Could you get these cleaned for me," she asked hopefully. "Oh sorry, that is perhaps beneath your rank, and I need a squire of my own for errands such as these." Str said nothing, clutching her silks in his hand, apparently somewhat embarrassed. Thinking of his rank, she remembered her lovely horse Dawnstar. She had not seen her in quite some time, so she inquired after her health. As she was more accustomed to walking then riding, and the poor thing had a hoof condition, she had left the horse in the stables. Str assured her the horse had been exercised properly, and that he had been treating her hooves as she asked, but could not tell her if the condition was any better. She ran out to the stables and looked for the red roan. She found her horse there, one of the few in the stables. "Oh dearest horse," she said, pressing her cheek to her, hugging her tightly, "I am so sorry to leave you for so long." She wished she could thank the page who had given her Dawnstar, but she had been so distracted that day, she could not even recognize him now. Perhaps he would come forward one day and make himself known so she could thank him properly. He had been so kind in her moment of distress. The horse whickered softly, nuzzling her neck. She wondered if this horse was the only creature that loved her truly, the only being that would ever be truly hers, and then she looked down at her stomach, slowly swelling with each passing month. Celaborn had been hers completely, and she had lost him. But she had his child with her, a piece of him to love and cherish as she had loved and cherished her husband. Then she thought of her sister Arianna, who had lost her child, and wept, holding the horse tightly. How horrid... to lose one's husband was awful, but to lose one's child was a fate worse than death to Capy. She kneeled and examined the horse's hooves, rubbing the special salve in, and then cleaning them carefully. The hoof condition was much better. She stood and kissed her horse again. "In a week my love, you shall be ready to travel again, I think. I am so sorry for taking you to those horrid woods... and I don't think I'll leave you again for so long, dearest horse." Dawnstar reached her head down again, nuzzling her cheek, licking the tears away. It was then she felt the mind-link with Count Dagron... it was strong, and she could feel his pain, palpable through it. She almost began weeping again, thinking of Iser. In a way she and Dag were kindred spirits, irreverent and fun-loving on the outside, yet still feeling sad, lonely and alienated on the inside. Yet he was at his house alone, while she was at Camelot surrounded by the young. Oh, the aspirants of Camelot, eager to do any task she commanded them... At which thought she brightened. She sent him a message through her mind... an imperfect medium at best, but still able to convey the idea... "milord if I sent thee kisses, would it improve thy spirits?" At his affirmative answer she went back inside the castle and gathered the pages about her. "I have an urgent matter for ye to attend to... I need thee to deliver parcels to Dagron at his castle." They nodded, serious, willing, eager, waiting for the packages. "At your command, milady," "As you will," and other such words were spoken. So she stepped to each of them in turn. Areleth she kissed on the forehead, Alodine and Thoeran on the cheeks. After much blushing and fainting, the pages were sufficiently recovered for her to complete her instructions. She told them to travel in a group to Dagron's castle... and watched them go on their way. Shortly thereafter she received a message from her lord Corwin, he who had seen her through her squireship. It seemed he, too, was at the United Estates of Americus, and requested her presence immediately. He even dared give her directions, but she decided upon her own route, and set off on foot, wondering how much longer after her arrival the pages would be there, and what was the matter that called her to this distant corner of the woods? She ran all the way, using the skills she had honed to stay invisible and hide from every foul beast that dared to cross her path. At long last she arrived, to find that Str had beaten her to it, and there were others assembled. Thus they spent much time together, awaiting the arrival of the pages. The others were drinking, reveling in their brotherhood. She gazed longingly at the ale, wishing she could join in, drink and drown her sorrows, for herself, for Iser, for Arianna, but the child was too important to her. She would spend months in misery rather than endanger the life of her baby. Alas, when the pages finally arrived, Dagron had disappeared, so the parcels were delivered to Corwin for safe keeping until his father's return. It was then that Corwin mentioned the sad state of affairs in his father's bedroom, the mess that Dagron had left behind. So they went and cleaned the bedroom, she and Corwin and Slen and Str and the pages assembled there, until it seemed it was truly safe. One by one they left, until she stood alone with Corwin and his squire. It was then that Corwin pulled out a perfect red rose. "In honor of St. Valentine, although a day or two late," he said, offering it to her. She looked at him, surprised. He had broken their engagement, and she truly thought he had felt her unworthy of him. She took the rose, examining it... what did it mean? For friendship, it should have been a yellow rose. Even a white rose would not have surprised her, and a pink one would have made her heart leap as well, but she stared at the deep red of the flower in utter shock. Thus her emotions overcame her, so she began plucking the petals off, one by one. "He loves me, he loves me not ..." she began, pulling the petals off, dropping each at her feet and repeating the words until but one petal remained. "He loves me," she said, tearing off the last petal, looking up at Corwin. "But how can I believe this flower," she asked, deliberately pricking her thumb on a thorn and watching it bleed. "It is cruel..." "The flower speaks the truth," he answered, "for my heart is yours, even though I cannot give it to you. I can not be what you want and need, but I love you still." With these words she burst into tears and fled the room. At least now she knew she had done no wrong, it was not she that was lacking. But her heart still ached, so easily given, so easily broken... her youth and foolishness would be her demise, she was sure of it. Capybarra Lady of the Round Table Come join NW Ember and NW Ulfius for the July edition of: <<>><<>> Who/What/Am/I <<>><<>> Thurs. September 19th at 10 pm ET in the Great Hall Tavern. Prizes: First Place: 25 Pearls + 4 hours Second Place: 20 Pearls + 3 hours Third Place: 15 Pearls + 2 hours Winners of First thru Third place will also receive GOH access! Cya There! NW Ember and NW Ulfius(submitted by: Mech Havoc) Here is a quick tip for the PvP'ers in NW. If you are ever in a PvP situation where someone casts a cloud kill on you and you do not want to, or are not able to move simply cast a stink cloud on yourself. The stink cloud is instantanious so you will take no damage and can stay where you are. The only draw back is the possibility of coughing or choking on the stench ;> Mech Havoc Your friendly NW neighbor ;>(submitted by: Mech Havoc) Here is a quick tip for the PvP'ers in NW. A sure fire way to check a globe is to cast bless on your opponent. If the globe is down the char will be blessed, regardless of images remaining. So if you cast a bless and it works start throwing those LB's ;> Mech Havoc<><><><><> <><><><><> 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!