Atlantis 2.0: Times 14 From: Geoff Dunbar <atlantis@rahul.net> Date: Mon, 08 May 1995 00:00:00 +0000 Atlantis 2.0 Times April, Year 2 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Game Master Notes: atlantis@rahul.net for information, problems, or to play. IMPORTANT NOTE: The Atlantis City exits have begun changing. Watch the exits carefully; you are given a warning each month which exit will change in the next month. Bug Fixes This Turn: 1) Healing wasn't working properly. 2) Units that are given to other factions now give skill reports and spell reports to the receiving faction, when appropriate. 3) Units that lose a battle are now not allowed to be on guard. Additions This Turn: 1) I (finally) put in the RESHOW order. I've updated the rules; the new set is available at the ftp site. 2) OK, units for whom no UNIT xxx is given will now WORK by default. Any unit who is specified by a UNIT xxx order will not WORK by default. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Melvin sat upright in his chair, staring warily at the bowl of soup on his table. Despite months of eating the stuff, he still hadn't figured out what was in it. He cautiously picked up his spoon. Perhaps it was better that day. Melvin recklessly scooped up a spoonfull of soup and swallowed it. That was a mistake, he realized with a grimace -- if anything, the soup was worse than ever. Seeking an excuse to avoid eating any more of the vile stuff, Melvin looked up and spotted Abercrombe standing across the room. He smiled. "Abercombe! I didn't see you come in. Would you care for some soup?" Apparently Abercrombe was forewarned, for he declined with a shake of his head and a hint of a smile. "I just came to bring news from our long-range scout. It seems he has discovered a new town, which he will investigate during the next month. Elsewhere, preparations proceed according to your plan." Melvin pushed his chair back and stood, leaving the soup on the table. "Let's go to the map room and review the details," he said, and hastened out the door without waiting for a reply. Abercrombe picked up the soup bowl before following. Once outside, he surreptitiously dumped the contents in a muddy pool, then lengthened his pace to catch up with his leader. If Melvin had turned during that time, he might have caught a glimpse of Abercrombe's fond smile. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The column of troops cautiously made its way eastwards through the narrow mountain pass. Cleo the Mad had declared war upon the Free Companions, and such a threat could not be left unanswered. Riders had come to the sheltered valleys where the Free Companions were in winter quarters, bearing rumors that Cleo had died, even committed suicide, somewhere in the snowy peaks. Truth? Or an elaborate trick? Who was now claiming the Dezhou mountains where Cleo ruled? Word came that a Cleo II now laid claim to those lands. Yet, it would not be so surprising if Cleo the Mad had arranged her own "death" and proclaimed herself her own successor. Who knew what a madwoman might be capable of? In any case, it was readily apparent to the Captain that regardless of who ruled there now, the situation on the eastern border needed to be resolved. Thus it was that as the last snows melted, the Lieutenant found himself commanding the advance into the east. A hundred soldiers marched under his command; a mixed band of savage tribesmen, sturdy barbarians, and fierce war orcs; yet all proudly wore the olive drab uniform of the Free Companions. Suddenly, at the front of the advancing army, a fiery explosion burst before the scout on point, knocking him to the ground and leaving him sprawled there, neck bent at an unnatural angle. A fierce war cry rose from the ridge on either side, and a dozen burly vikings charged down the slopes, waving heavy wooden cudgels. One incautious soldier had his skull bashed in before he knew what was happening. The Free Companions were under attack! The Lieutenant spared only a moment to glare at his staff officers, whose tactical advice had led him into this ambush. The men cried out as another burst of fire exploded over their heads, blinding many of them. Looking up, the Lieutenant spied atop the ridge a woman in white robes on a grey horse, gesticulating wildly, and a line of high elven warriors standing before her protectively, as if she were the most important prize in the world. Here, then, was the sorceress whose witchfires struck amongst his army! Pointing his sword at the guards atop the slope, the Lieutenant roared, "CHARGE! Up the slopes! Attack, you dogs!" And at the head of two squads of tribesman veterans, he rushed the elvish lines. The elves, well-disciplined, stood their ground and used their elevation to their best advantage, but, armed only staves and cudgels and armored with only leather, they proved no match for the mailed swordsmen of the Free Companions. Four elves fell for every Companion. Seeing the success of their commander, the barbarians and orcs, having finished with the viking raiders, joined the charge up the hill, soon discovering to their exultation that they easily outnumbered the ambushers. The charge of the Free Companions carried to the top of the ridge, and the last of the elves were pushed back, finally, to form a loose semicircle protecting the elvish witch, whose delicate features now showed fear. "Attack!" shouted the Lieutenant, feeling victory within his grasp. "Capture the witch, but that one," and he pointed to the one who seemed to be the captain of the elves, "is mine!" The leader of the witch's gaurd nodded, almost imperceptibly, and hefted his sword, one of the only two blades possessed by the ambushers. The Lieutenant advanced, his own sword held ready, as all around him the soldiers of his command charged to attack the remaining ambushers. Fire flashed once again over their heads, but this time there was no dissuading the charge. Steel rang on steel as the Lieutenant crossed blades with the elf captain. The Lieutenant's battle ardor swiftly cooled into careful calculation after his mail narrowly deflected a glancing slash from the elf's blade. No sense in dying with victory in sight. He went into a conservative defense, feeling out his foe's strengths, and his weaknesses. The elf was good, he thought, but no master. Confident now, the Lieutenant advanced, carefully parrying every thrust, making no mistakes even as the elf captain's attacks became more and more desperate, finally culminating in a complex sequence of feints which allowed his blade to penetrate the elf's defenses, and then his heart. The Lieutenant looked up now, to find the battle won; dead ambushers littered the slopes. Only the witch herself and two elven warriors remained, and they had broken off to flee. The new orcish recruits, no better than rabble, really, pursued them hotly. The two elf warriors turned to make a last stand, to buy time for the witch to escape on horseback, but, outnumbered, they were cut down where they stood. As she tried to flee, the witch's grey horse stumbled on the rocky footing, then reared in panic as the orcs surrounded it. Filled with battle frenzy, the orcs hewed the horse down savagely; the witch was thrown to the ground, hard. The Lieutenant took a step forward and started to shout an order -- but, too late; an orc had already finished it, impaling the elf woman upon his sword. A few minutes later, a staff officer found the Lieutenant standing over the sorceress's body, lost in contemplation as the Free Companions cheerfully looted the bodies of the slain, boasting of their deeds. The dead woman lay there, like a broken doll, deep red staining her pure white robes. Who was she? She was not Cleo herself, that much was certain. Little had been learned from the wounded elf they had captured and interrogated before he died; they were the White Flame Warriors, whomever they were. Was the woman perhaps the mysterious Cleo II? Apparently the ambushers were one of the many factions vying for control of Cleo's domains. The staff officer coughed. The Lieutenant looked up. "Yes?" "We have won a great victory today, sir," said the staff officer. "Forty enemy dead to only nine of ours. A glorious victory!" "Yes," said the Lieutenant. "Glorious indeed." He looked down upon the dead sorceress. Soldiers were one thing; he didn't like seeing women slain. Reading his thoughts, the staff officer said, "She called down fire upon our men. It had to be done." "Yes, of course," said the Lieutenant. But why had they attacked the Free Companions in the first place? "Send messengers," ordered the Lieutenant. "Anyone who wishes to pretend to claim areas south of Kashmar should contact us. Send word, too, to the Captain, telling him of this battle; and ask him to find witches for our side as well." The staff officer saluted smartly and left. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ SWORDS WANTED Bids are solicited for the provision of 200 swords. All offers of at least 50 units will be considered. Contract[s] will be awarded to the provider[s] offering the best combination of price, availability, and delivery options. Partial prepayment available to bidders with demonstrated production capacity. Submit Bids to The Maurarhiannons, Faction 113 care of matthew@clark.net. Notice from the Teamsters. Wagons are no longer available for general purchase. If you have a special need, please contact us. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ One of the most famous characters of Glomera & Rantlu, Mr. Muuf (345), announces: Ladyes and gentlemen As every reader of Times knows, skeletons have killed one of my family. Now I'm going to show to everybody, which is fate of aggresors attacking unarmed revealed explorers ! Either me, or skeletons ! But major politologists point that Mr. Muuf paid no attention to skeletons until rumours about huge treasuries carried by them. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Boudiccea has a new job. She is now teacher and her three apprentices are learning much from her. "Strange thing", Boudiccea thinks. "I should study and learn myself too, but on the other hand I can teach those things I know already. But I would need more time. One can't study and teach at the same time. And the costs of living are high, not to mention the study fees and the prime costs for that research equipment." The little Witch is asking about that healing stuff and the Sorceress wishes something to know about that fire flash spell and Wandering Eye is eager to test the Shadow Jumping spell and all three need her knowledge and her experience. Late in the evening Boudiccea goes to bed, really tired but happy for she isn't alone here anymore. She knows she had done a great job this day. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Black Company gives you more on THE ART OF WAR by Sun Tzu. War is a matter of vital importance to the state; a matter of life or death, the road either to survival or to ruin. Hence, it is imperative that it be studied thoroughly. A excerpts from Chapter 3 : Offensive Strategy ...to win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the supreme excellence. Thus, what is of supreme importance in war is to attack the enemy's strategy. Next best is to disrupt his alliances by diplomacy. The next best is to attack his army... Thus, those skilled in war subdue the enemy's army without battle. They capture the enemy's cities without assaulting them and overthrow his state without protracted operations. Their aim is to take all under heaven intact by strategic considerations. Thus, their troops are not worn out and their gains will be complete. This is the art of offensive strategy. Consequently, the art of using troops is this: When ten to the enemy's one, surround him. When five times his strength, attack him. If double his strength, divide him. If equally matched, you may engage him with some good plan. If weaker numerically, be capable of withdrawing. And if in all respects unequal, be capable of eluding him, for a small force is but booty for one more powerful if it fights recklessly. next week Chapter 4 : Dispositions ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 'My Lord Aravan!, I have news!' 'Yes my son, please tell me your news'. 'Our Leader Lord Renard, will arrive this month. He sends a message for you and Lord Baerus'. 'Give me the message, then return to work.' Aravan quickly reads the message. 'Yes, just as I thought, he comes alone. Why leave Dreaglos in charge? All he can do is operate a wagon without a horse. At least Gashira can shadow jump!' 'What's that Aravan, talking to yourself again?' 'Yes Baerus, it seems our mighty leader has decided to come to us and has left Dreaglos in charge elsewhere' 'What!! That idiot can barely tie his own shoes!' ***** The Hand of Darkness, and our allies the Dire Didgett of Darkness, and the Melniboneans, now claim the desert in (6,15) as well as the forest in (6,14). All factions entering this region are requested to state their business. Hand of Darkness g8512580@mcmaster.ca ------------------------------------------------------------------------ What can you say about the city of Lautaro, hmm, well it's worse than Helvete, that at least has a jungle on one side. Around Lautaro you have the choose between ocean (50%) and swamp (50%), not a hell of a lot of difference! So if you are into wading through swamps for months on end to only end up in desert, mountains or more bloody swamp then this is the city for you......... .....ARRRggggg!!!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gustavus' Grenadiers (142) claims the following areas in the Abernethy region: 5,13 6,13 8,13 5,14 7,14 8,14 7,15 5,16 6,16 7,16 9,17 All of the intervening and surrounding provinces are claimed by my allies or other associated factions. A courtesy message explaining your units and intentions when entering these areas will save us all much annoyance. I do not plan to restrict transit at this time but a "NO TAXATION" policy for non-allies is in effect and will be enforced. Pillagers will be dealt with in kind. Tradesmen wishing to exploit the resources of these areas need to contact me to arrange terms. Gustavus Adolphus ------------------------------------------------------------------------ This weeks lottery numbers are 82, 34, and 27. Komarken: Reports of massive troop movements outside the city are false. Repeat, FALSE! Any sightings of orcs in Komarken are just your imagination. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Land Claim Office ===================== The aim of the Land Claim office is to produce a list of usefull and dangerous land for the unsuspecting explorer, it is free and no claim will be enforced by the claims office. The decision to use it is entirely yours and you may claim as much land as you wish, although no claim of the whole world (or a large part of it) will be published. Claim Faction/Unit Contact 1,18 The Free Companions (109) yaj@cc.gatech.edu 1,19 The Free Companions (109) yaj@cc.gatech.edu 2,18 The Free Companions (109) yaj@cc.gatech.edu 2,19 The Free Companions (109) yaj@cc.gatech.edu 6,14 Hand of Darkness g8512580@mcmail.cis.mcmaster.ca 6,15 Hand of Darkness g8512580@mcmail.cis.mcmaster.ca 9,8 Picts pdxark@evol.gene.nottingham.ac.uk 10,7 Picts pdxark@evol.gene.nottingham.ac.uk 10,8 Picts pdxark@evol.gene.nottingham.ac.uk 11,11 Renaissance (30) vjg@cbnea.att.com 12,10 The Mauve Marauders (59) euaahg@eua.ericsson.se 13,10 The Mauve Marauders (59) euaahg@eua.ericsson.se 50,0 Industry(88) alb@cwa.com 50,1 Industry(88) alb@cwa.com 50,6 Great Muuf and his family (117) maxera@fzu.cz 51,5 Great Muuf and his family (117) maxera@fzu.cz 51,6 Great Muuf and his family (117) maxera@fzu.cz 52,4 Acme Labs 297 tajones@beagle.colorado.edu 52,5 Great Muuf and his family (117) maxera@fzu.cz 55,0 Holy Order of the Sacred Purple Kumquat (379) shook@ibg.colorado.edu 55,1 Holy Order of the Sacred Purple Kumquat (379) shook@ibg.colorado.edu 55,5 Holy Order of the Sacred Purple Kumquat (379) shook@ibg.colorado.edu 46,56 Los chicos de Edu & The Prophet Followers ecasas@mest.unizar.es All claims should be sent to the office (claim@forsyth.demon.co.uk) with a means of contact, a summary will be included in the Times each month. If you wish your entry removed then also let me know. The Land Claims Office. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Meek Observer came running back, "Advance scout checking in, sir." Karamon looked grim, "report." "The grass is green, the cattle are well fed... and the guardsmen a plenty." The Blind One, Paul, edged up to Karamon, "The time is now, we must act fast or the seasons will bring ill fate." Karamon slowly nodded, "You are right Paul, but we must make careful plans." The three of them conversed slowly and finally nodded in agreement. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [Hadrian (matw@halcyon.com) looked up from his balance sheets ...] Gluch! Has that marketing puke who advised me to sell horses at "whatever the market will bear" left yet? <yes sir> Good, I paid him plenty of silver and I've not sold a single horse. We need another plan. <Paint them so they look more attractive?> Gads no! Think a little for once. ... There's a market in Abernethy right? <yes> Odds are pretty good people there will want horses. Go over there tomorrow and give it a try. <yes sir> I also want you to post in the town square that we claim these regions for Magos (faction 155) and our ally's to use. ____ / \ ____/11,15 \ / \ / /10,16 \____/ \ / \____/ / \ /10,17 \ \ / \____/ <yes sir> [Gluch leaves, and Hadrian moves to his bookcase to select "Ether and other such media for magical propagation" for his afternoon study.] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **MONZON MOVERS** **SPRING SPECIALS** Yes, winter is now over and time for that spring cleaning. Worried about how you are going to move all your newly produced goods to town? You need the MONZON MOVERS. Units near starvation? Need to get money to them fast? You need the MONZON MOVERS. CALL NOW AT pdxark@evol.nott.ac.uk *NEWSFLASH* *NEWSFLASH* *NEWSFLASH* *NEWSFLASH* *NEWSFLASH* *NEWSFLASH* In the Kashmar region? Are you jealous of the service Monzon has been having? Are you in need of money transferance between Monzon and Kashmar? Are you in need of money transferance between Kashmar and Monzon? THEN DO NOT FEAR - The Monzon Movers are near. Watch this space for further announcements. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ When Mikey woke, he sensed someone in the room, but it was dark. Yes, in the shadows he could just make out the figure of ... He grabbed maddly for his sword but couldn't quite reach it. Then, the figure approached said, "A little jumpy, aren't you Mikey." As he stepped into the moonlight, Mikey recognized him. "Eikelander! I can't believe it's you, I thought you were dead," exclaimed Mikey, "I thought you were Rayelin coming to turn me into mincemeat." Clearly relieved, Mikey settled back down on his bed. "So what brings you to this part of Rantlu, old Mage?" "I have troubling news, Mikey, I came to tell you that you need to leave the forest." "What? I can't believe I'm hearing this from you," Mikey stammered, "You told me that I would always be safe here. My stealth level is so high and I have my sword. Besides, my father fought for this forest, I would rather die..." "The Republic is becoming stronger, and the forest is just not safe for you," the old mage told him. "I don't believe it, the Republic has a measly 50 nomads or something, and sure, Rayelin threatened me, but then he called me his friend and said I don't have anything to worry about." Mikey countered. "Yes, Rayelin is unstable, but there is something about him that I never told you." Eikelander said, looking serious. "You know this guy?" Mikey asked. "Yes, I know him very well Mikey, and he is not to be trusted. You see, Rayelin wants you to join him and he is you father." "No, It's not true!" Mikey screamed. "My father died in the Republic Wars, my father would never join the Republic, you old goat, I should make mincemeat out of you." Mikey grabbed the old mage by the collar of his cloak and threw him out the door and into the night. "I won't leave this forest and don't you ever come back." he yelled after him. But a twinge of doubt rang in his ears. "What if it was true", he thought to himself. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Arrrgghhh! This is the life", thought King Chromic Acid, as he sprawled on his tempory throne of fresh cut lumber, sucking a up noxious cloud of Almerian Cigar smoke, and guzzling from a tankard of purple Hullevalan BerryBerry-Brandy. "The Treaty talks where quiet, but still alive, ah those Romans, they seemed to be men of honour, clever engineers and canny politicians... but byegeoff were they bloodthirsty." "Times change," he mused " and i reckon Time changes" A year ago, or so, the world seemed so large, so full of promise, and now, Now it seems so small, so sordid, so full of the grasping greed he'd come here to avoid." "This brandy's good, it's making me maudlin." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The winter is coming in the city of Sledmere. Soon, people won't be able to move from the city anymore. The crowded populace will be forced to coexist. And the situation is bad in the city. A bloodshed has been forewarned for the next monthes, thieves and assassins are at work. Massive alliances are moving and making schemes. Crows are already flying above the city and its neighbouring woods, ready to feed themselves on the corpses. The bloody winter is coming, BEWARE ! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ THE SELL OF PLATE ARMORS CONTINUES PLTs sold for only $400 or exchanged for other items in (4,18)and (3,18) are you interested then send mail to The working faction 181 andrew@hra.ergasya.tuc.gr How much could I use a wagon.If anyone has one please name me his price. Also teaching is still going on in Kashmar.I can teach you Armorer,Weaponsmith, Building,Horse Training,Herb Lore and Entertainment. Contact The working faction 181 andrew@hra.ergasya.tuc.gr ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Well, it had to happen. The Thieves and Assassins guild has come to Abernethy. The city guard no longer provides adequate protection from them, and I see them striking willy-nilly. Personally, it's a good thing I've been studying Observation since the beginning. I feel sorry for the rest of you. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Still Going: THE CARTOGRAPHER'S COOPERATION CONSORTIUM ! It's a big world. Someone has to map it. When you go out on a long series of travels and explorations, what should you never leave home without? No, it's not the Atlantean Express(TM) card. A Map! All travelers should have as accurate a map as possible. Well, here at the Cartographer's Consortium, we're endeavoring to put together such a map. But, we can only do it with your help. So, we're asking you to send in a copy of the reports from areas you have recently explored. In return, you'll get the up-to-date compilation of all Consortium entries. We're over 20-plus contributing members strong, as of when this ad was placed (Friday, 5/5/95). We currently have mapping data on ~450 areas, with economic data on perhaps one hundred. New players are encouraged to join. Many new lands will be opening up as the gates in Atlantis City change their exits. The CCC is now cooperating with the services of the Platinum Map. If you like the Platinum Map, you might like the additional service of the CCC, which adds a complied gazeteer of many of the regions mapped by the Platinum Mapping project. Write for info now. The CCC can currently be reached at "tim.hruby@his.com". Please include the prefix "CCC:" in your subject line. P.S., Sorry for the constant repetition (I've received a complaint), but the ad gets responses from new players every turn. I'll cut it back when/if the game is closed. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ IC: "A quest then, it seems... To remove my presence from Komarken without removing myself from my life..." Thalian sat and pondered the possiblilities... If one spell is available with multiple foundations, there must be others... He ponders the idea of "Gadget", but decides it would not be as useful as continuing on in Ethereal - perhaps there was a stable teleport spell ahead... In a different vein, perhaps someone may sail in and bargain passage away from this place... Yes, this is definately a possiblility... ------ OOC: If there be a faction out there willing to sail to Komarken, I'm sure there would be at least a few people who would appreciate the chance to bargain for safe passage away from Komarken... If there is, I would appreciate an offer. So, if you could possibly provide transportation oversea, or if you are _also_ in komarken looking for transportation, please mail me. Daniel White Faction (193) Daniel.White@LakeheadU.Ca ------------------------------------------------------------------------ GREETINGS TO ALL MAGI The collegium will be teaching next week for the last time prior to the sabbatical I have been warning you about. If you still want to be taught be Aelfstan the fine arts of Hermetic Magic; especially Ethereal, Construct, or Life; please contact me at: jepether@flash.lakeheadu.ca The rules for teaching are still the same; sorry still require money or spells. Following next turn we will return to our true passion, ie research. Anyways, this week in our continuing discussion on magic, we wish to propose a theory. Any agreements, disagreements, critiques or outright disgust at our (supposed) naivety are welcome (same e-mail address). Here we go. In last turns Times article we introduced the premise that surrounding our material realm was an ethereal/astral realm, and two spiritual realms. We also took the position that there was a certain amount of leakage inward; thus energy from the spiritual realms would leak into the ethereal and material realms and energy from the ethereal would also leak into the material. Taking this premise to be true, we then hypothesize that magic can and should have a moral aspect. The two spiritual realms each has a moral component attached to it; in simplistic terms: one is of good spirits and the other is of evil spirits. Because aspects of these realms leak into the other two realms, these realms can have a major effect on the others. For example the sightings of Angels (good spirits) and devils (evil spirits) in our world. As mages these sighting can often have a major influence on our lives (e.g. many a mage has died in battle with demons). However it is in the leakage of the spiritual into the ethereal realm that mages can be effected most. As you may remember, the leakage of the ethereal into the material was what we believe constitutes magic. As workers in this "stuff" of magic we are thus shaped by it. Most of this "stuff" is pure, untainted by any spiritual energy. Thus most mages could, and often are, be called Grey wizards. However, in the mage who has some leanings either towards good or towards evil, this tainted "stuff" seems to be drawn; tainting the using magi even more; thus the concepts of White magic and Black magic. For example, a mage with a bit of ambition wishes to use his power to conquer a kingdom and make himself king, using the "tainted" energy he does this, removing the rightful king and lording over it himself. The tainted energy will proceed to taint the mage until he becomes a tyrant being cruel for cruelty's sake. At the Hermetic Order, using this premise as a guide, we prefer to remain neutral. This does not mean leading a solitary, passifistic life. Instead it means doing things for reasons of logic and reason, emotional and moral/ immoral uses of magic will tend to corrupt the mage removing some of the freedom we all crave. WHAT THINK YOU? ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ************************************************************************ # # # ##### # ## # # ##### # #### # # # # # # ## # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # #### ####### # # ###### # # # # # # # # # # # # # ## # # # # # # # ###### # # # # # # #### ####### A slave Rushes in... # # # # # # ## # "Master", he stammers, "a New source of # # # # # Information!" # # # # # # # # ## "Let me see!" you reply, grabbing the parchment ####### # # from his weak hands. Slowly you read the strange inscription... ####### # # # ###### (http://www.csc.liv.ac.uk/users/u3jph/roleplay.html) # # # # # ###### ##### "It's just Someones Address!" you exclaim, striking # # # # the slave roughly. "Get Out Of Here!" # # # # # # # ###### "But Master", continues the (brave) slave, "There's all sorts of useful and up-to-date stuff about # # ####### ###### Atlantis there. Everyone else is going!" # # # # # # # # # # # # "Hmmm, might be worth a look..."; you look down at the # # # ##### ###### the poor thing, which thinks its boldness has gained # # # # # # it favour, then break its nose for the third time this # # # # # # week. "Don't be so insolent!" you scream! ## ## ####### ###### My Atlantis Homepage is rapidly growing, but needs YOUR help to make it Great! Current features include : - Proper Colours! (they used to be icky). - Quick Reference Section including rules(html), Instructions, Current Players List, Great Hall of Maps, and the Current Times. - A brief description/introduction to the game. - Advice on the mailing list and how to get off it! - Reviewed Links to (all?) the other Atlantis pages, including the Official Page. - Order Checker Addresses. - Complete FTP options for easy retreival of all FTP Atlantis Data. - Submissions and Articles provided by YOU the players! - Other Fantasy and PBEM links! This Page has probably completely changed (for the better) since you last saw it! I am quite happy to put your articles on it (if you have neither the time or the knowhow to write HTML, then I will convert ascii files you send me). One thing I must ask is that you send me 'permanent' things such as treatises on combat / magic / war / trade / economics /anything like that. Advice on default orders for Newbies will be compiled into one really good set. The Exits from Atlantis City are changing soon to who knows where - when they do, I'll include reviews of the destinations and their environs if you send me them. Do not send me land claims etc or anything that is organised by other groups such as the ccc. I will talk to individual service providers about giving access to their info. Let me know your opinions! regards, Jon. Faction 217 (Of no fixed Name). (http://www.csc.liv.ac.uk/users/u3jph/roleplay.html) ************************************************************************ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Finally those stupid elves got a few things right. Messages were sent and new people recruited. Their training worked for a change. I didn't have to get after them for wasting another month in the sunny city parks. Not sure I can stop calling them stupid though, I still have to keep after them. Perhaps, one day it will happen that I can refer to them as smart. I'd love to see that day. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO o o O ABOUT ASSASSINS O o o OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO Did anyone notice that the Little Furry Creatures and the Muppets are the two factions that offered services as assassins ? I find it funny. Beware the new factions : if they call themselves "Teddy Bears" or "Harmless Dolls", you know what they are ! - Acrobatty the Rigolo and the Jokomicalaughunny Buffons (229) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Eclipse was studying. Every attempt was being made to learn as much as possible about this new land. The page turned on its own accord. Both the words and the Shadow Master were illuminated by Eclipse's firey outline. The Shadow Master waited patiently. Eclipse was the leader of this expedition of shadows. Although their interests were different, the Shadow Master respected the intensity required to do this research. Eclipse looked up. "Yes?" "A thief is among us. An Orc." "Does it pose any danger?" "No, but it recently accosted one of our neighbors." "We have support agreements with all our associates. Why bring this to me?" "This would be our first act of violence since our arrival." "You know your responsibilities. We must do what is necessary to live in this world." The Shadow Master turned and signalled the Lords. As the orc attempted to slip out of camp, a wall of shadows surrounded it. As the wall closed the thief retired. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ MESSAGE TO ALL THE GROUPS AT THE SLEDMERE AREA: We're the Drakull Soldiers (faction 237), and we're here 4 telling u that near Sledmere will soon be a war action versus guards 4 obtaining a city and being able of taxing there. We're not an hostile alliance (as someone told we're), we're just an alliance needing a silver source (we r almost war or magic factions) and it's the better way 4 obtaining silver without attacking anybody. Please, don't try to disturb us or we'll need 2 protect ourselves by destroying any hostile unit. Factions wanting trading or passing through the zone please e-mail me. We won't attack without reasons, but we'll prefer knowing who r wanting 2 be with us. By other side, we can offer training at some skills by a low price (that will vary depending of learners number: more people learning->lower costs). We can teach combat, energy, building, tactics, riding,... If u r interested on training please, e-mail me too. My e-mail address is: u0904872@soneto.etsiig.uniovi.es ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Un nuevo mensaje para el viejo y querido TIMES: Me empigza a doler que el 90% de los mensajes que hcn sido mandados en habla Hispana se reconozca, de manera tan descarada, que se va solo a por la pasta. Vamos, todos queremos que nuestro TIMES sea wn metodo util de mandar mensajes, sobre todo publicitarios. Asi que, un poco de"seriedaf, por favor. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wood sell! In Sledmere area! All of you interested in buying small amounts of wood, about 6 pieces/month (biggers ammounts could be considered too) send a note to atl-players. The "matter" line must be Atlantis-Wood-Sledmere. Any other way, I won`t take a loo{ on iv. Chgap! Good wood! Wood Good! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ IS ATLANTIS A MOEBIUS BAND? ES ATLANTIS UNA BANDA DE MOEBIUS? Hello. I am a scientifist, and I have Hola. Soy un cientifico y tengo una a theory about Atlantis. teoria sobre Atlantis. I think Atlantis it is a Moebius Band, Pienso que Atlantis es una Banda de where Atlantis City is the edge. Moebius, en la que Atlantis City es el borde. Like this, from Atlantis City you can Por eso, desde Atlantis City puedes ir go to any other place in Atlantis. a cualquier otro lugar de Atlantis. What says the scientifist community Que piensa la comunidad cientifica de about my theory? I hope read your mi teoria? Espero ver sus opiniones en opinions on alt.players and in future alt.players y en los proximos numeros issues of The Times de Los Tiempos. Yours Atentamente Frank N. Stein Frank N. Stein G.A.D. Escuadron de las Sombras. La culpa de todo la tiene Yoko Ono! Manteo sistematico y subvencionado de Sanchez Drago! GUERRA AL IMBECIL! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Saludos a todas las Facciones de Atlantis, Nosotros, la Nueva Alianza, establecidos en Sledmere y Stinchar, estamos a tu disposicion para ensen~arte las sigientes habilidades: Zona de Sledmere: OBSERVATION, COMBAT, ENTERTAIN, LONGBOW, WEAPONSMITH, SAILING y SHIPBUILDING. Zona de Stinchar: COMBAT, OBSERVATION, ENERGY. Precio a convenir. Ponte en contacto con nosotros en: an253128@anon.penet.fi Greetings all Factions of Atlantis, We, the New Alliance, established on at Sledmere and Stinchar, can Teach this skills: Zone of Sledmere: OBSERVATION, COMBAT, ENTERTAIN, LONGBOW, WEAPONSMITH, SAILING y SHIPBUILDING. Zone of Stinchar: COMBAT, OBSERVATION, ENERGY. We can talk about the cost. Contact us at: an253128@anon.penet.fi ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Saludos facciones de Atlantis, Os habeis planteado cual es la forma de Atlantis? No se si se os habia ocurrido que puede ser una cinta de Moevious. Con los datos experimentales de los que disponemos, y tras un an~o de continua observacion de los astros de las noches de Atlantis en distintos puntos de su superficie, estamos en disposicion de sacar esta teoria. No obstante continuaremos con nuestros experimentos, y os comunicaremos las conclusiones a las que llegemos. Manmir, administrador de la Orden de Hirgul. (Abril, an~o 2, Observatorio de Ruingul). ------------------------------------------------------------------------ WHO APPEARS FOR JUDGEMENT BEFORE THE DOORWAY OF ETERNATY I Thresharik O Lord AND HOW DID YOU COME TO BE IN THIS PREDICAMENT Well O Master Of The Cosmoss. I was just riding allong minding my own bissiness actually I was'nt paing all that much attention cos i was counting the silver in this perse see. A PERCE Err yes your magnificence the one I'd just st.. Err found. You see it had a picture of this big bird in armour riding a charriot embroiderd on it together with the words Boducia Rules OK.. or somfing like it. Well this picture of this bird.. well she was a big girl if you get my drift o worshipull one. an I was just looking at it when.. WHAM I was bashed of me horse by this picture of a bloke sort of 2 dimential so you can't see in from the side. well no sooner was I on the ground when about an hunred of is mates all piled on an I was sqwished, and then I came hear. YOU ARE A WORTHLESS WRECH AND I SEND YOU TO SPEND YOUR NEXT REINCARNATION AS A PET DOG IN A VERY POOR SOAP OPERA. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ TO THE BRAVE MENTER DEFENDERS. Dear and brave cityguards: We ask you for surrender now, you will can travel in peace, the city of Menter will be ruled by Player forces. No more NPCs ruling cities. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Dirtbag's Response to Hermetic Order News & Views (editor's note: We have tried to preserve the original character of the authour's writing but we have, on occasion, felt it necessary to provide a translation into common English. Some adjectives, adverbs and intransitive verbs have been removed, as well.) Da stinkin' wuz elfs t'ink dat dere be magic in the world. Gnazhki (ed. orcs) know dat dere ain't no stinkin' magic in de world. Da only magic in da world be when Gdunbar (ed. orc deity) watch over gnazhki and gnazhka (ed. female orc) when dey f___ and he make little gnazh (ed. baby orc). But elfs not know dat sins dey hatched from tree nuts buried in horse dung. Da 'Erminic Oder ( a bunch of greasy legal weasels) t'ink dat dere be invizble worlds dat gnazhki not see. Gnazhki too wize to belief in invizble t'ings. If gnazhki not eat it, sleep it, f___ it or snoozle it (ed. an orc practice involving small furry animals), it not be. Da 'Erminic Oder t'ink dat world be oval, whatever dat be, with little squishy bits. Dirtbag t'ink dat maybe 'Erminic Oder t'ink world be like elf head, which has yummy squishy bits. Dirtbag know dat world be Gdunbar's fist. Da 'Erminic Oder t'ink dat spirits z'round world. Gnazhki know dat when Gdunbar crushes elfs or hoo-mans with hiz fist, dat dere be no spirits. When orc die, Gdunbar holds dem in hiz fist till final battle with soul missing elfs and hoo-mans. Da 'Erminic Oder t'ink dat da invizble t'ings leak into world. Da only t'ing which leaks in world is squishy elf bits when Gdunbar squeeze dem and dey pop. Da 'Erminic Oder say dat dey write more make believe trash. Dirtbag be here to tell gnazhki and oopsa (ed. orc noun meaning both excrement and non-orcs such as elves and humans) da truth. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Free to a good home: 1 feral orc. mostly housebroken, but has been known to breakhouses. male/neutered. 6 mos. loves children, 'specially around mid-day between lunch and dinner, but before supper. interested parties teleport all relevent info to Lord Viper. c/o the atlantis times p.o.box 666 @rahul.net Serious inquires only please. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Thieves in Monzon! I guess you never believe it until it happens to you. But despite all the warnings in earlier Times, I'd slacked off on studying my Observation. No more. My advice to everyone--don't carry large sums of cash, and keep up with the Observation!!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ***** ATTENTION PLEASE TO ALL IN KASHMAR REGION ***** Dear All in the Kashmar region My services are still available to be rendered to the populus. As ever, the scheme of things change, and at present, so to must my teaching method! Unless I receive confirmation of class numbers for the various classes WE offer, I will be forced to implement plan B! At present, the skills available, by myself and my allies, are as follows: Combat .......... A - 120 days Riding .......... A - 120 days Stealth ......... B - 120 days Observation ..... B - 120 days Tactics ......... B - 120 days Herblore ........ A - 240 days Horse Training .. Aring for quote Lumberjack ...... A - 240 days Building ........ A - 300 days Weaponsmith ..... A - 300 days Armorer ......... A - 300 days Entertainment ... A - 240 days Energy .......... B - 60 days Nature .......... B - 60 days Construct ....... B - 60 days Three spells at $50 each : Wind Riding, Bless Forest, Fireflash Contact me for further information. Also note that any teachers out there wanting to be placed on my list, just pick up the keyboard and mail me! As for plan B, at the moment, classes are run in terms of $5 per individual for type A classes, and at $25 per individual for type B classes. Plan B does away with this system. The following will apply if I do not hear confirmation otherwise : $50 per type A class, regardless of number of men up to 5, and then $10 per man after that! $125 per type B class, regardless of number of men up to 5, and then $25 per man after that! What this means, is that if you enroll one man - it'll cost ya $50/$125 depending on course. Alternatively, you can enroll five men - which'll cost ya $50/$125 depending on the course! Gettit? Finally, enrolling more than 5 men, will cost additional $10/$25 per man as per usual. For any querries or notes, or just help in general, mail me! I'll see what I can do! Dave McGaw Faction 266 u3djm@csc.liv.ac.uk Newbies enqueries welcome! PS I am planning on alighting from the Kashmar City Limits in the next few turns, (as promised to the people here first) to set up a camp not too far away. I'll keep ya'all posted where the next school is gonna be! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ I trailed the shadowy figure from a distance, wondering why my master was interseted in an absent-minded old codger. I had received the note while eating dinner in The Kitchen. Find the man named Almozar, and follow him. Learn everything about his associates, his lifestyle, any irregularities he has. I will expect you to report back to me within a week. I jumped up just in time, as I noticed the man disappear into an alley. I ran quickly to the entrance of the alley, then casually turned in. Nothing. The alley was a dead end, and the man was nowhere in sight. I knew I had to find this man, or my master would kill me, so I went across the street, and entered the small cafe that he had just been in. I was sure that he would come back to his old haunts, sometime... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Uh.. I hope that that chaos around will stop soon.. With all these soldiers running around, my mind is going somewhere, leaving me far behind. *sigh* Well, one would think that honest merchant could live without any problems and even profit on war prices. At least that's what they used to tell us: That waring sides are usually willing to pay for military material more in times of war or preparation for it than in peace.. Hm.. *sigh* and all my customers are complaining on lack of money. Darn! Why the most wealthy always keep saying "I can't afford paying this prices... I don't have so much money..." I wonder how would they pay if they would have to buy it from city markets. *sigh* At least if they would protect our interests a bit. If they already took control of a city, why can't they declare prohibition on selling whatever can be sold there for all with exception of their allies? Hmmm.. Well, I'd rather stop complaining and try to think out some reason why my men don't have the money I got for swords.... thieves? no.. they were in a city... hmmm it will be a long night I'd say.. Disclaimer: *-------------------------------* I'm not responsible for any ideas, | Vlado Fedacko, DCIT Prague | attitudes, etc. expressed in text | MFF UK Prague | above. It's all just product of | fedacko@frode.dcit.cz | your imagination. (but, of course *-------------------------------* all fees for use it are required.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Parece que los animos estan algo mas calmados en este turno y no tengo ningun report de batallas cerca de Sledmere. Sera que la gente se ha amansado? Sera que no ha sobrevivido nadie a las anteriores batallas? O sera simplemente que yo no me he enterado? En cualquier caso no news is good news. Queda otro asunto por resolver que a mi personalmente me esta amargando la sangre (y quiza me haga derramar la sangre de alguien). Por que se empennan en impedir el movimiento fuera de Sledmere city? Mi paciencia se esta agotando y, supongo, que las de los demas tambien. Pronto tomare una decision al respecto y mucho me temo que no sera pacifica. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Lord! Where am I now? An alley leading off to the left, and straight ahead a dead end! I could hear the grunts of the three men around the corner from me, and I knew I didn't have much time to decide... Then I noticed a flash of light off to my right, from inside an abandoned building. The door was open. With no other options and completely out of breath, I plunged through the door. Strong hands gripped me and threw me to the floor. "Hush!" a familiar, whispered voice snapped in my ear. I laid on the floor, panting as silently as I could. Outside the three oafs ran into the intersection, the first one stopping short and causing the ones behind to stumble into him. "Look sharp!" the first one ordered. "He didn't go down the alley, and he couldn't have climbed the back of the barracks... he's here somewhere." The three men spread out and started looking between buildings and under landings. Mr. Lunchnick, who had somehow gotten here ahead of me and found this shelter, crouched under a window and peered out. He had a knife in his right hand, and something large and dark in his left. One of my pursuers walked up to the open door and peered inside. The Mr. Lunchnick tossed what was in his left hand at the doorway and it exploded in movement and sound. The man leaped backward out of the door with a shout just as the unleashed bat flew over his head into the night. "What's the matter, Grond, mouse jump you?" The other two men roared with laughter. The third man picked himself up out of the mud and muttered something about jumping someone else later. Then the leader came up to the door and looked in. He took a step in the room and quickly stepped out. I glanced at Mr. Lunchnick again and saw that he hadn't responded at all. The leader stepped back in the room and stood, looking around. I tried to draw further behind the piece of furniture I was hiding behind, which turned out to be a large coffin! I looked around, and saw that I was surrounded by coffins, some open to show their gaping black interiors. I gave a slight shiver at the thought at what might be in the ones that were closed, since it looked like this building hadn't been used in years. But I had forgotten about the leader of the men outside, and when I turned back around, he was staring me right in the face. "So. Thought you could run away, eh? Well I think it's time you meet with my friends so we can discuss what we're going to do about you killing Harald Innkeeper..." He grabed my by the shirt and dragged me up to my feet, and pummeled my with his other hand. My legs went out from under me, and I thought I was going to throw up, but he just pulled me back up again. He was about to give me another bashing when suddenly the expression on his face changed to one of surprise. He let go of me and I fell to the floor. Looking up, I saw him half turn torward the door, and then he fell sideways into an open coffin, smashing the rotten wood to pieces. I tried to get up, but I still couldn't use my legs effectively, so I started to crawl to the back of the room. Just as the other two men came into the room, a bottle smashed over the doorway, and flames leaped up the walls. The two men leaped back out the door and rolled into the street, putting out the flames that had found their clothes temporarily. The room was filling with smoke, and I could tell from the sudden heat wave that this fire wasn't going to be put out soon. Mr. Lunchnick appeared out of the smoke and hauled me off the floor. "Follow me out the back. Watch your head." he told me over his shoulder as he moved briskly away. I did my best to keep up with him, but tripped over a wrinkle in the rug in the next room. Mr. Lunchnick stopped, picked me up again, and walked me out the back of the building with one arm around me... To be continued... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Mas desgracias! Cuando pedi mi inscripcion en el juego no pense que esto seria tan duro. A los constantes ataques, amenazas, estorsiones, bloqueos, etc. etc... hay que unir mi mala suerte y mis estupidos fallos. Si esto sigue asi tendre que montar una sociedad con Gil y Gil llamada GAFES.SA. Que ha sucedido? Pues bien facil, en definitiva, lo de siempre. Tiempo y dinero perdido inutilmente. Como? Pues de la manera mas sencilla. Una falta total de entendimiento entre quien debia dar el dinero para el estudio de la magia y quienes debian recibirlo. No hacen falta mas aclaraciones, verdad? Seguro que ya conoceis el caso :-) . . /^\ . Con los respetos del /\ "V" /__\ I O o Circulo Interno. //..\\ I . (288) \].`[/ I magic faction /l\/j\ (] . O /. ~~ ,\/I . \\L__j^\/I o \/--v} I o . | | I _________ | | I c(` ')o | l I \. ,/ _/j L l\_! _//^---^\\_ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Over half the room was covered in boxes, stacked from the floor to the ceiling. A scrawny elf wrung his cap in his hands, waiting to be excused. The Grand Archibold surveyed the store. "When are you bringing the rest?" The scrawny elf looked blank. "There's no more to come," he whispered. "What do you mean, no more?" demanded Archibold. The scrawny elf gave a meek half-shrug. Archibold checked the order and delivery notes. They matched exactly, but there wasn't nearly enough equipment for a full months study of the entire Brotherhood. What did Ershwin and Osram think they were playing at? Archibold sighed deeply. He would have to complete the supplies himself now. Was a Wizards work never done? He smiled wryly as he thought on the bright side... Almeria would be treated to the greatest firework display it had ever seen... --- Lord Oswold Magic Advisor The Four Who Are One ------------------------------------------------------------------------ HEAR YE! HEAR YE! For a limited time only: OBServation training in Monzon for the month of June, 2 (that's two turns from now) for beginning to intermediate students. Prices: 1 person -- 25 SIL 3 persons -- 70 SIL 5 persons -- 100 SIL Other skills that may be available: ENErgy, MiND, TACtics, RIDing and COMbat. All skills taught by experienced leaders. Some skills may only be available to beginning students (include the current level of your students in your inquiries). Should you have any need for such training, contact the Council of the Ancients at the address below. Get your orders in now, while spaces are still available. The Council of Ancients (290) mlyon@interramp.com An Equal Opportunity Employer ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Stinchar area residents are advised to stear clear of hex 48,6. A great fire engulfed this area in March. Interviews with dazed survivors show that there were hundreds of 12 year old elf children chained together inside an iron mine. Irregardless of the slave practices of the Slunecni Zare, the smells eminating from this shaft are quite toxic. Beware. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Dear Editor, I would like to comment on the recent spate of articles denouncing stealty units. I myself actually have a number of units with reasonably good stealth skills, and am quite annoyed at the attitude that some uninformed people take with respect to this noble art. I never have and never will use my men trained in stealth for dirty or illegal dealings. They exist only so I can gather intelligence about factions and units forbidding entry to various regions. This intelligence will then be used to make these unsocial actions known to the general populace. You will remember this quote from last month's times that appeared in the CRIMEWATCH section: "One doesn't hide unless he's got something to conceal" This statement is simply not true. While I admit that many people who study the art of stealth do so with evil motives in mind, it is not possible to make broad sweeping generalizations like the statement above. My wish is only to help the poor simple commoner like myself who wants a simple life. Please don't dump all stealthy people in the same basket! Samuel O'Brien ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Renaissance finds itself in possession of a couple poorly-utilized swamps in the Monzon region. We seek one or more trade factions to harvest the wood and herbs. Our requirements on the successful applicant: - willing to be friendly or ally with us - willing to sell a portion of the products (in the form of finished goods) to us at a REASONABLE price - willing to forego taxing and entertaining We offer the following benefits: - exclusive usage of resources, backed up by Renaissance's exclusive claims to the regions - protection from bandits and hostile factions - a small but reliable income, in the form of payments for the goods we purchase - no fear of starvation! - limited work income - freedom to do as you please with the resources that you don't sell to us - ship them elsewhere, sell to other factions at inflated prices, whatever you desire - possible longer-term agreements as other resources are located. These positions are ideal for trade factions with high skill levels, who can maximize production with minimum maintenance costs. To apply to a position, or for additional information, reply to Renaissance (faction 30) vjg@cbnea.att.com Applicants who can handle both swamps will receive preferential consideration, but we are willing to split the job if necessary. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ WANTED An explorer that has some experience with these %$^%$&^%$ holes... I have several lairs in my property and I need to know what will be exiting from them. It would not do to have a new exit from Atlantis city to suddenly appear in my back yard... What would the neighbours say??? ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Shafts and Lairs: Distribution by terrain: Lair (18 total): 5 swamp, 4 plains, 3 mountain, 3 forest, 1 jungle, 1 desert, 1 tundra Shaft (5 total): 2 plains, 2 mountain, 1 forest Terrain type # explored % w/ lair % w/ shaft ------------ ---------- --------- ---------- Mountain 20 15% 10% Plains 37 11% 5.4% Swamp 21 24% 0% Forest 37 8.1% 2.7% Jungle 2 50% 0% Desert 11 9.1% 0% Tundra 7 14% 0% Data from CCC. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ THE PRAESTBYGD CHRONICLES ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ The messenger breathed loudly. - We discovered new lands, my lord ! Amazingly beautiful they are, and only inhabited by peaceful peasants... - Good news ! In name of our faction, I claim those lands, and create the Realm of.... What's the name of this region ? - The local peasants name it Praestbygd, my lord. - Prraegstbdwhat ??? What an ugly name ! (sight) ok, let's go for "The Praestbygd Realm". Send explorers farer inland, and install a control a the borders. War factions are not welcome ! With Geoff's help, we'll build a peaceful nation dedicated to trade and science... (to be continued.... I hope) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ To all factions situated near the hex 47,55. The faction 335 claims this region and has an advertisement for anyone who wants remain there. Pieter is speaking, so put your right knee on the floor: "I have been blessed by gods for gobernating this lands, We and my allies are peaceful traders, but we will not let the pass across our country to armed troops, thieves and assesines. Next turn, April, we close our zone to the unknown factions and units, only friendly and ally ones will be able to pass across our country. If you are in my country you should send me a mail in which you explain your evacuation plain. Perhaps I would be magnanimous and I do not atack some units in this turn, but my spirit is very variable. I do not want war, but money is important. Greetings to our french friends." Stand up, Pieter has finished. Go to home and repeit the peaceful desires of our lord. Go out from 47,55. Or we and our allies will do respect our law. Pieter. (335) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Epsilon snorted in disgust. "I don't *want* to go to Nairn. Or Tolsta. Stinchar, Kashmar, Abernathy... somewhere like that." The officious young elf across the counter stared back. "Sorry, sir. Never heard of any of them. Now if you'll excuse me, I've other business to attend to." Epsilon turned and stalked out, slamming the door behind him. "Never should've cast that dumb spell", he muttered. "Magic ain't nuthin but trouble." Ah well. At least he'd brought his savings. Time was, a man could start an empire with that much silver, before the hordes arrived... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Attention, people of Stinchar! Large forces are gathering just outside of Stinchar. Muufie-boy and his foul smelling companions shall be removed from the face of the earth. In june we will strike. Be there! Rowan of EEGID (Evil Eyes that Glow In the Dark) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Moz considered... He thought he could make it. Three turns of starvation ahead, and then the products should be ready for market. Only if nothing went wrong... However, last turn he lost 5 of his producers to an unfortunate smelting accident last turn, (caused by an overzealous attacker trying to impress his commander), but according to his calculations, he might just survive to the winter. It's going to be a lean summer... he considered glumly. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Hi, all people at atlantis: News are that my allies and meself are becoming the best players of this game. For example I am going to become the best mage and some of my allies already have the powerest fighter, priest and druid. We want to become masters of Atlantis... so beware of us. Oscar. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ abERneTHy's NEweST reLIgiON: _ / \ ____the____ C H U R C H o f E N V Y | | | | | | \_/ Well, well, well. We're actually planning to conquer the whole area around Abernethy. We recommend people to leave their money at home, or pay us a small fee. Very tiny, of course, we don't want to ruin you, we just want to make our living, and we happends to be skillful thieves. The construction of our temple is proceeding according to our plans, and we'll allow memberships in May. We won't steal until May either, so this is your last chance: Leave town, leave money, or pay fee. (Or try your luck, perhaps we won't choose you the first month...) The Church Of ENVY - We want YOUR money... The Church Of ENVY ------------------------------------------------------------------------ THIS IS WHAT SSS AAA TTT AAA N N WRITES THIS WEEK: S A A T A A NN N SSS AAA T AAA N NN S A A T A A N N SSS A A T A A N N Devil:" Master I have found out, who guards in those hexes!" Satan:" Good work my servant! They will get problems!" Devil:" Their names are: Mest.unizar, also called: 'La Allianca' and some other factions, among them: factions 24, 115, 119 etc..." Satan:" Tell our demons to change to asassins!" Devil:" Master, if you allow, I have made a better plan!" Satan:" Tell me of it.... ***ZENSORED*** ..." To all faction in Atlantis! Come to Sledmere this is the Town of friendship and peace! Come to Ellesmere for your holidays! Visit Menter to relax from your combats! Satan& the Undead will protect you! These factions are of general threat to all factions here around: All those MEST.UNIZAR.ES ones and those, who claim that they are NOT allied and that they DO NOT want to sack MENTER soon! Come to Menter and see, who is there... You can bet: They have not claimed 47,55, some other factions, who just have the same name took over there... Note to you all: My demons have been there, but you could not see me! Question: do they have allies, who are not called mest.unizar? We will find out. HA! Another Alliance, intends to take over ALL SLEDMERE + Area! They are currently owning some of the richest hexes around the cities! Knowm members: Cognoscenti (24), mab@kcc.co.uk Mahtan Manufacturing and Mercantile (115), witek@cs.rpi.edu Piranha Bros. Trading Co. (119), faherty@mfa.com Rescue Rangers (187), salvaj@vscht.cz Imperium Australis (373), svanders@iccu6.ipswichcity.qld.gov.au If there are more members will be found out, soon! HA! TO ALL NEW FACTIONS !!! COME TO ELLESMERE AND AREA! THIS IS THE COUNTRY OF PEACE AND FRENDSHIP! SSS AAA TTT AAA N N S A A T A A NN N SSS AAA T AAA N NN S A A T A A N N SSS A A T A A N N & the Undead ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Voice of Reason near Uxelberg: Once again tension is in the air in the forest of Corinth. Rumors of numerous large alliances (The Rebel Elves, the Iron Circle, and some other) and of large combatant units in the forest have been heard. It looks like the situation may degenerate in total open war, if nothing is done. We pray the factions who are blocking all way out of Sledmere, to let the beginners pass. A corridor from Menter(46,55) or Ellesmere(47,54) to Uxelberg (44,57) should be open, to let the new factions colonize the poor tundra areas on the extreme SouthWest of the region. This Corridor of Peace should be the hexagons (45,55) & (44,56) or the hexagons (47,55), (46,56) &(45,56). So all parties involved are invited to sit down together at a virtual meeting table to resolve their differences, or the numerous newbies could be made against them ! A solution could be find. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ UNIVERSITY OF T T T We welcome new trainees and take care of the experienced. Why waste your money doing all training yourself. Save that silver for more needed supplies. Let T T T assist you in your training needs -- and save months and money! ANNOUNCING THE OPENING OF THE TRANSOCEANIC TRAINING TROOP !!!! T T T is now open for your business in Atlantis City !!!! Your cost is low. Typically half of what it would cost you. We start out at a mere 15 silver per month per individual. But, you can gain big with a large enrollment. Can you afford this? Can you afford NOT to have this training? Can you afford not to save silver and valuable time? Enroll now and get positions of your choice, enroll late and you might miss that valuable skill you wanted. What do we offer? Our collection of T T T teachers have a large variety of skills at all sorts of levels. You name it, we are likely to have it. High level skills go fast, so hurry. We don't have what you want right now? We can fix that too! Study for a secondary skill, let us do the hard work, and train you in your selected skill a couple months later. We are located just inside Atlantis City. Contact the dean of T T T for enrollment at apwinsor@cs.unlv.edu. Registor's office informs of higher rates for special skills. All others OBS STE MAGIC TAC Type 10 Type 50 Type 100 Type 200 ---------- ---------- ----------- ---------- one = $15 one = $30 one = $50 one = $100 three = $30 three = $60 three = $100 three = $200 four = $40 each+ = +15 each+ = + 30 each+ = + 50 each+ = + 5 The registors office does note that the Mages and Tactics get the best deal, but it costs so much to train them before they are of any use anyway. *** Mage spells for sale or trade -- Make Offer *** (carioca@io.com) {not all skills are available every month. Early notice will help ensure your particular skill is available} Help is available to assist you in your training orders. T T T registors office will need the following information: Faction***Unit***How many in unit***Skill wanted***Level at now "May your Study Skills increase beyond measure." Sponsored by the Anson Winsor Civilain Construction Corps apwinsor@cs.unlv.edu ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Holy Order of the Sacred Purple Kumquat is pleased to announce that we are now taking advanced orders for horses. These horses will most likely be sold in Derwent, though other arrangements may be available. Price will be $60 each, possibly subject to negotiations. Trade for wood or finished goods will also be considered. The horses come pre-blessed with Holy Kumquat Juice on request. We'd like to point out the general utillity of horses, and their ability to carry such goods as wood, stone, and iron, not to mention fat, clumsy Leaders, who might otherwise slow down your troops. Contact shook@ibg.colorado.edu to place orders and discuss details. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Greetings to all in the Sledmere area! I am investigating the possibility of trading wood and herbs for iron and maybe horses. My tribe lives south of Menter, so I would like to meet there if a trade can be arranged. You may write to me by courier pidgeon (mosherj@minerva.cis.yale.edu). In peace, Shaykh Ghassan of Bani Ghassan ------------------------------------------------------------------------ FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT: A RIGHT FOR ALL. ===================================== For some time now, many factions have established themselves in regions surrounding the Gate-Cities and laid claims on these areas. It is generally accepted that it was their privilege to do so in accordance with the universal "first come first served" law. It is also understood that their aim is to reserve the rights of producing and taxing in these regions to themselves and their allies, and still rightfully so. Yet tensions have arisen, sometimes war have been declared, because these landowners have denied freedom of movement to other factions, by closing their boundaries and preventing travellers from passing through. In the name of peace and individual rights, such proceedings are hardly acceptable and we call for an opening of all frontiers. Everyone should be free to wander round the world as they wish ! On the other hand, we strongly urge all units entering regions they do not know to include a contact address in their description. This would enable landclaimers to get in touch with them easily (should there be a need to) and could prevent regrettable incidents from occuring. With the approaching changing of the Gate-Cities and the resulting opening of new regions to civilisation, we certainly hope that civilised relationships will be established amongst the emigrants. Why fight when you can talk first ? This message was kindly brought to you by: The Atlantean Developement Project in association with Atlantis Union for Civil Liberties. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ THE UNRELIABLE SOURCE The Unreliable Source is just taking a quick break from its sabbatical to report on some interesting news that has recently come to light. Kashmar (AP) - The Unreliable Source is investigating rumors that an entire faction was slaughtered south of Kashmar City. Another two factions were reportably mortally wounded. Despite the defenders possessing superiour Tactics and Spell power they were crushed. This leaves only two major war factions in the Kashmar area since the disappearance of Cleopatra's Party and the defeat of several new factions attempting to fill the void left behind. On a related story, scouts confirm that the mountains surrounding Kashmar City are filled with well armed orcs many of combat level four. The city is schedualed for destruction possibly in the early fall. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The tattered message was found tumbling along the ground. The mage silently bent to pick it up. Only part of it was legible. "We're recruiting new men all the time. Our forces grow by the hour. One of the fool tribal elves tried to pay his taxes with chickens. We taught him not to try that again. Things seemed really slow until Thador came back and reported he found a cave. He said there were tracks around it like something was moving around, but he had never seen that particular track before. I thought it was strange, since Thador had been hunting since he was a child. I told him to take 10 men and check it out. That was yesterday. He didn't come back. What's that commotion over there? Probably some brawl." The paper was covered in blood, and the mage guessed it was the blood of the author. Concern lined his face as he grimly folded the paper and slipped it into the folds of his cloak. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ershwin smiled inwardly. The Legate wasn't such a bad man he thought. True that they had had their disagreements, but what were ninety dead elves between friends? True that previously the Legate's clumsy attack on their mine, had resulted in the loss of his finest and favourite horse, and that his boyhood friend and comrade in arms had been trampled in the assault - but most of the letter bombs hadn't exploded - and even the one that had, had only maimed a couple of elves... Yes, Ershwin smiled and chuckled to himself. The Legate was a man after his own heart... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NEWBIE STUDY AIDS If you are starting out & confused, email me for sample orders and an edited digest of recent email about orders at: RPeters@defenders.org ------------------------------------------------------------------------ To the thieves and assassins operating in Sledemere, I'm now a level 3 Observation master. I have denounced someone who have made some dirty trick in Sledmere this turn, just ti the victim. If you make again one of your bad deeds I will happily denounce you to every faction on the mailing list. Any more nasty work and that could be it for you, thieves, Be careful... The Reliable Source in Sledemere. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Things are changing for everyone. I note a new frenzy as new exits start to open. Or is it the frenzy of old ones being closed? No, the main buzz is from the new ones. Messages flying around like flies to contact allies and friends. Train me, coordinate with us, joins us, look at our plans and vote. It is good to be strong, good to have allies to support you in war. When the battles come, then my master, the Reaper, will have more to choose from. But do not hurry the Reaper, He will choose your time, and you cannot hurry it or delay him. When the Reaper arrives You will not delay him Your appointed lives Will be gleaned For no mere mortal can resist the power of the REAPER. RIP -- the UNDERTAKER -- ------------------------------------------------------------------------ When the exits from Atlantis City change, I'm going out the south exit. Don't bother trying to stop me. You can't. This is your last, final, (terminal even) warning. If you disobey, I'll rip off your head and...(censored)... You have been warned, you are warned, and you will be warned. DONT GO SOUTH when the exits to Atlantis city change. I mean it. A Lot. So there - Okay? Good! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Sdyka was anxious. She was still afraid since her last experience about the Time. What would happen if her experience had accelerated the time for ever ? Moreover, she had burned the whole notes she had taken during the previous months to accelerate the Time. And now, she's looking the cloud run which hid sometimes the sun, in the last days of March. But maybe, the current month is already April ! The only thing she had to do was to wait that the Time passes. It will run again normally ? Or it will pass twice quickly ? To forget this catastrophe, she took the bottle of wine, and served herself a glass of red wine. Maybe the last bottle of a such good one. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Diary March, year 2 Finally on our way. All is well, except for Bob the Scout who has been cut off in the NE. My Elves are just about to enter Anstruther and my scouts have even better reports than last month. Looks like it's going to turn out allright afterall! Ulrik II ------------------------------------------------------------------------ As a new noble he had though it fitting to hire a bard to record all the epic deads he was destined to do. But as they sat by the camp fire he could only cringe as he heard his soldiers and peasants sing the bards sole creation for the umtyith time. That song about his heroic slaughter of 471 mosquitos, 26 tics, and 2 leeches in his first month as a noble really didn't seem to do him justice. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The machine heaved about with fury. 'Well, doesn't that just take the biscuit!' it roared. 'Nothing, eh? Just don't think, do they?' 'And me,' said Marvin in a soft low voice, 'with this terrible pain in all the diodes down my left side.' 'Makes you spit, doesn't it?' 'Yes,' agreed Marvin with feeling. 'Hell that makes me angry,' bellowed the machine, 'think I'll smash that wall down!' The electron ram stabbed out another searing blaze of light and took out the wall next to the machine. 'How do you think I feel?' said Marvin bitterly. 'Just ran off and left you, did they?' the machine thundered. 'Yes,' said Marvin. 'I think I'll shoot down their bloody ceiling as well!' raged the tank. I took out the ceiling of the bridge. 'That's very impressive,' murmured Marvin. 'You ain't seen nothing yet,' promised the machine, 'I can take out this floor too, no trouble!' I took out the floor too. 'Hell's bells!' the machine roared as it plummeted fifteen storeys and smashed itself to bits on the ground below. 'What a depressingly stupid machine,' said Marvin and trudged away. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The warm spring sun shone over the bustling city. Rumours were afoot that the steady flow of immigrants was about to cease. Old Hamid, paused, and surveyed the docks. There was still lots of activity with the new arrivals milling around the market stalls, or huddled in small groups plotting goodness knows what. He wondered what the summer would bring. The unexpectedly short winter brought at the same time hope and fear to the people of Stinchar. Hope that trade would continue to be good and fear that the armies rumoured to be gathering on the plains, would find the city a tempting and strategic prize. Travellers reported that vast areas had been pillaged to support the warring factions during the harsh winter. Hundreds of refugees had fled to the safety of the city. Hamid sighed & threw open the wooden shutter which covered his stall. His family had run this stall for as long as anyone could remember. Placed against the city wall, leaning against it as if were a weary traveller seeking rest, it was a prime site in the market. It provided a reasonable living for him and his family. For the moment the city was peaceful. Soldiers from the Republic of Rome mingled happily with the scruffy mercenaries, and traders sat and talked with mysterious figures belonging to the various magic orders. Hamid smiled a wide toothless grin, no matter who was in control, the soldiers would need inns and brothels to brawl and carouse in, the mercenaries would need a safe meeting place for their arranging their next contracts and the purveyors of magic would need a source of supplies for ther arcane research. Yes, it would be a good year for Stinchar. And Hamid. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The first unofficial census of Atlantis: March 2 Territory Ldr Nom Hel Pla Idw Sel Trm Orc Vik Ddw Tel Hdw Wel Total ____________________________________________________________________ Komarken 12 101 52 5 1 1 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- 172 Stinchar 13 --- 38 --- --- --- 7 --- --- --- --- --- --- 58 Abernethy 36 --- 16 --- --- --- 9 229 12 1 --- --- --- 303 Sledmere 61 --- 446 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --1 508 Kashmar 47 --- 91 --- --- --- 114 --1 1 --- --- 10 --- 264 Monzon 59 1 221 --- --- --- --- --- 1 --- 213 --- --2 497 | _, | Jason y sus Argonautas >?B | (464) `H H H H --: \\-O-Q-@-Q-O-Q-@-Q-O-Q-@-Q-O-Q-@-/| `\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ / D ~~~~~~~~~~\~~~\~~~\~~~\~~~\~~~\~~~\ ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "What's it all about? I mean, why are we here?" asked a Crusader this month. "Well, to make money and survive, of course!" answered Mr. Cohan. "But what about all the factions who seem to have hundreds of men under their command, compared to us, a little bitty group of Crusaders trying to find some dwarves?" "I don't know, perhaps we can find more people to ally with us. And maybe we can finally get some iron and start building swords!" "I hope the Crimson Permanent Assurance Company(470) can survive!" "So do I, Fred, so do I." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Southern Empire, House ShadowLancer The coming of the Southern Empire -------------------------------000------------------------------- Chapter 1 He entered the small inn, 'Al-Hudjan' they called it. He was here to meet with Zorin, a tutor from House Kurovsky. They had seen each other on several occasions, but this meeting would be special. Zorin had asked him to come. Normally he, Tiomus of House ShadowLancers, would bring guards, but the message had spoken of a alliance amongst the greater fations of the South, so guards would be improper. It's all a matter of attitude, he reminded himself. An alliance between the House Kurovsky and the ShadowLancers would improve the standing of both houses greatly. He took a seat in the corner, back against the wall and with a good view of the whole inn. Perfect, his training had proven vital more than a few times. He ordered a bottle of vine and a glass. Waited quietly. Zorin entered the inn shortly after. He signaled the man to take a seat. They looked at each other, both understanding the implications of the meeting. Zorin spoke quietly: 'Greetings dearest friend. I bring wishes of good health from the House Kurovsky'. Then he quickly outlined the reasons for the Southern Alliance, and went on with the visions behind this Empire of peace and prosperity. This would indeed be a Great and Mighty Empire. Tiomus left the inn smiling. The alliance was a fact. This night he would bring good news to the House ShadowLancers. Wonder what the future might bring of good.... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Southern Empire, House Kurovsky ------------------------ooOoo------------------------ >From the Chronicles of House Kurovsky: She looked down the street, where her 5 horses stood quietly. The sun was unusually hot today, she thought and called the stable boy, telling him to make sure the horses had enough water. They were to be fit for travel, she told him, since she had to leave with a new student in the arcane arts of Magic. She hadn't seen Helena in more than 8 years when she was nothing but a little girl. Helena's fate had been sealed even then and today the time had come. The first contact with Magic can be difficult, but Helena would have a very skilled tutor. Archmage Zelda Kurovsky had a nice ring to it, but that would come later. In about two years she expected to call herself Archmage of the Southern Empire, if all went according to the plan. Her relationship with the coming Emperor of the Southern Empire was strong and it would get even stronger in the future, no doubt about that. At the moment the Empire counted 14 factions, a quite large force in comparison to many of the alliances in the Sledmere region. There would be rules to heed, orders to obey and land to conquer. That made her think about one of her very good friends in the World of Magic, Meister Thoran. He was as skilled as she - even more, she wondered - in the art of Magic. A favor for a favor, a spell for a spell. They would soon be working together again to gain even more power to be wielded by the Southern Alliance in the Wars to come. She wouldn't meet him today, but hopefully within the next month or so. So much to talk about. She had only been able to reach him through a trader from the House Istiff, whom she had met years ago in Atlantis City. He had followed her here, but that was another story. Cacthing a glimpse of movement she turned her head and saw Helena, her sister in the art, walking towards the House Kurovsky. This would be a remarkeble day, no doubt.... Written by: pf@nrg.dtu.dk ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The troops and workers had gathered again outside Sledmere for a briefing, as they did every month. Tension was high because the High General Cilion Highdale had been away for a while now. A messanger from the south had arrived a few days earlier saying only that the General had to stay in Ellesmere a few months more. Meanwhile the troops were commanded by Cilions old friend, Linta Macar. All the officers and Linta had gathered around a table with the map of Sledmere and it's surrounding areas. After a long silence an officer in charge of the scouts pointed at a forest on the map and said: "Sir, one of our scouts has succesfully entered this region. Nobody seems to be prohibiting access to it." "Allright, send the lumberjacks there to find out. Damn it would be a miracle to get a unit out of the damn city.", Linta cursed. "What about the rest of us? Work for another month?", the leader of the Elite guard asked. "Yes. I am afraid that will continue for some time, until Cilion comes back and orders otherwise. Earn what you can and train the men.", Linta ordered and studied the map. "While the men work, I'll check out the neighboring regions." "Sir, the men are beginning to lose morale. They want to see action and get out of the city.", said the leader of the Elite Guard. "Theres nothing we can do. Those cursed factions guarding the neighboring regions. Cilion ordered that the troops stay here until he finds a suitable base, and so they will. Daliythian, the Centaur, will come from Atlantis City to take command next month. After that, Cilion should be back. Any questions?" None of the leaders spoke. "Then return to your units and take the men back into the city.", Linta ordered. Quickly the leaders disappeared to their units leaving Linta to ready for travel. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "What have you to report," asked Jenna Curoon as she worked with whetstone and knife? "Well," replied her right hand Hakim, "We seem to landed in the midst of a pretty desolate place, and I still haven't found any sign of our men. The city itself is just about what we thought, which is to say not a place we really want to stay in for long." Jenna nodded. That was true enough. While better than Atlantis City in terms of overcrowding, the markets weren't selling anything she wanted, and the rumors of the surrounding terrain were discouraging. "Oh well she thought, it'll build character if we live through it long enough to go find our real new home. At least I got a message from our men. Damn that lord Anthony to burning hellfire for his treachery, and his pettiness. Oh well, they did get away, and in theory will be joining me some time before the Apocalypse. "So, what do you want me and Jem to do?" Ja started and realizing that the boy had been looking at her for sime time, shook her head to clear it and replied, "You and Jem are going on a scouting expedition into the Northwest.You are to find out more about what's up there, and who, you are not to do anythin rash, or to antagonize anyone. You are not to attempt anything clever like horse-thieving or anything like that. Just find out, then send me word. I'll be trading hopefully." "Hakim's face glowed with pleasure at the commission. He had no idea what was in store for him, and he should have been more daunted by the thought of trying to cross a desert, but he was young and naive in the ways of a non-urban world, so he confronted the prospect with a delight that Jenna Curoon, battle-wise lady, veteran of not a few wars could not share. "And please Hakim, be careful." Chris Bartlett Massage Therapist: Ann Arbor Mi. bartlett@amanda.dorsai.org ------------------------------------------------------------------------ A leader in Atlantis City knocks a passing rider on the head, pushes him from his saddle, and climbs to a dubious balance standing on the horse's back. He clears his throat and straightens his pointed hat and rag-clad body with learned dignity in preparation for his mercenary expostulation on the teaching he is going to advertise. "Hear me, all Atlantis," he projects from atop the horse. "I am known as Andy the Moderately Amazing, a Mage of the Order of the Off-White Raven. It has come to our attention that after two more turns of teaching the Collegium of the Hermetic Order will take a Sabbatical. So that new factions can continue to get a fast start in their studies of magic, we will begin in June of Year 2 in Atlantis City to teach the Foundations Construct to level 3 and Ethereal to level 2. Cost will be 60 silver pieces per month per student. We will have one mage with level 2 in Construct and Ethereal and one mage with level 3 in Construct, for a potential enrollment of up to 20 students. We will accept students according to the order in which messages requesting enrollment are recieved and allowing reservations of seats by prepayment in the preceding month." The mage scratches his head and consults a note that he turns around and upside down several times, then continues his pitch. "Our order also wishes to remind war and trade factions that for a negotiable price covering expenses, they can purchase the services of one of our mages in consultations or on a sponshorship basis that will give the sponsoring faction the complete support of an allied mage." The raggedy young mage harumphs in conclusion, prepares to step off his high horse, loses his balance, and drops into the gutter. He scrambles quickly to his feet and dusts himself off, assuring the slightly respectful passers-by that he is quite all right. contact: Order of the Off-White Raven (faction 500) BlackFlash@aol.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Loremaster observed Sledmere city. There was a lot of entertainment to be gotten it seemed, a little bit too much to the Loremasters liking. "It will become a problem if I would put yet another band of Jesters in this city" he thought, "or maybe if I make sure our Jesters know more than the others..." "I think we have to do yet more research lads" he said to his men. "Back to your tents", "I only hope our workers can provide enough to keep us alive" he mumbled he he went in after the others. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1234567890123456789012345678901234567890123456789012345678901234567890 The mistrious order of the Seguidores de Iape is glad to anounce that after several month of studies we have the knowledge in ALL magic areas and most of the spells. And we want o share that knowledge with you! Yes, but not for free :( just send a pigeon to: varela@binah.cc.brandeis.edu Stating your area of interest, lvl that you want to acquire (lvl2 in most of the areas and lvl3 in body), etc. Another service provided by the Seguidores of Iape is the transformation of your old wagon into a brand new Truck. Yes! After month of research whith steam machines we have constructed an device able to move the wagon by itself! No more horses anymore! Send a pigeon (another or the same one) and will transform your wagon for only $70 ($50 + expenses). [Orders will be processed in order of arrival and as soon as my mage can do it] JA ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Vull slapped his companion Noid on the back. Noid turned to face his friend, with a nebulous look on his face. Then again, Noid always had a quizical look. "I'm glad we were out of Atlantis! That place was so crowded!" remarked Vull. "Too conjested!" At that point, Vull began to phase out. His form began to shift and shimmer. "Dang! I hate it when that happens!" Vull and Noid have travelled to many worlds. Yet, in every world, they get stamped out, and banished into the void. "You know, Noid?" mused Vull, "Why do they always get our names wrong? They keep saying Null and Void! And, then POOF! We're gone! I wonder sometimes..." Noid looked at his friend, or rather through his friend, and wondered in full measure of his limited thinking capacity, "Maybe, I should go back to selling pizzas." ** Vull and Noid (523) would like to announce their not so grand entrance to Atlantis, in the Sledmere area. We are a generic faction (we fashion ourselves in black and white cloaks and tunics), and welcome trade and friendly relations. Besides, we are tired of our previous Null and Void existence. :) ** rlp@crystal.cirrus.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ********** Torrential rains, soon in Sledmere area ********** Hi, Lords of Sledmere, Ellesmere, Menter, Nork, Corynth... You know that the seasonal hurricane winds will soon blow in our regions, and you all need to protect yourself against the torrential rains that will soon fall from the sky. We, bards of Gondor, have the solution : wonderful waterproof Dragon wings ! These umbrellas, made in Gondor by the elven hands of the best craftsmen, will allow you forget the troubles of traveling under the rain : you won't be able to travel faster... but you will be dry ! Only 5 silver pieces for a real dragon-wing-made umbrella ! Available in Ellesmere and Corinth, 5 SILVERS ONLY !! - Grendel, Bard of Gondor. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ I am a member of the "Nueva Alianza". We have found a thief into one of our zones. He is now at 47,55 but I suppose he will flies in this turn. He has an high stealth skill. The name of this unit is: Finta. And his unit's number is 1428. We must kill that kind of units. Maybe there will be a reward. If you know its position, please, atack him and send a mail to: mdallo@mest.unizar.es Thank you. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Imazighen : where are they coming from ? Like every one in Atlantis from Atlantis City, of course. But, they have another origin: a region called Imzaye, but nobody knows where it is. They thought that this region called Imzaye exists in the world of Atlantis, and the Queen Kahina says to all Imazighen to search this region, this will be the quest of these peaceful people. Some legends say that they were living in mountains and others say that they are coming from the north and have celtic origin. Who knows ? That's why they are looking for their origin. Kahina. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Malleus scratched his curly red beard with satisfaction as he watched his men training their martial skills outside the Atlantan headquarters of the Teutonic Knights. "I was wrong about these elves!", he thought, "They are far tougher and capable warriors than their appearence suggests... They will serve the Order well!" There was a knock on the door. "Enter!", Malleus answered still watching the elves through the window. "I bring good tidings, Grand Master", said a deep and firm voice. Malleus turned to face his second in command, Gunthar, a northern barbarian. "Our mages now master new lore in the ancient arts. They have learned the magic formular to cast the spell of Fireflash!". Gunthar paused looking for some kind of emotional change in Malleus' face... Nothing. "Ehm... There is more to tell... The gates of Atlantis are changing!". That brought about a reaction... Malleus' eyes widened and burned with eager, "At last, praised be Geoff, this is the time we have been waiting for for so long! Inform the men and mages alike: We leave the sanctity of this golden city with the coming of the next month!" Gunthar bowed and left the chamber in a rush as there was a great deal of preparations to be made. Malleus scratched his beard which seemed to burn as the sunrays of spring danced in it. "Yes indeed, these elves will make excellent Teutonic footmen!" ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ouch! I wanted 20 High Elves, but I only got 4! Well, then, form them up, take the extra money, buy a horse and wagon, and let's get going. There's got to be somewhere less crowded than Atlantis City. We can only hope that we do not get the wagon, but no horse. I suppose that will leave extra time for study, but additional study in Combat doesn't earn additional income from taxing, that's for sure. There's a rumor that the exits will be changing next month, perhaps it would be safer to leave on foot, rather than get stuck with a horseless wagon. We don't really need to travel so far anyway... TS Mike Inman NIMS@CRIS.COM ------------------------------------------------------------------------ I followed the old trails and found a new city. An amazing place. Not a coonskin hat anywhere. Lots of war preparations being made though. With my background, I will forgo the hunting for a while and enroll into this Faction WAR business. Now I need to recruit a few like minded fellows. I notice there is real magic being practiced here. I usually have stayed away from that stuff, but, if it is real, I had better check into what is going on. Maybe befriend a magacian or two. Well, off to the marketplace to hear the rumors and buy a few things. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ It was a pleasant spring morning and the two Guardsman, Calloway and Lucente, were on there first tour as partners. "Hey," said Guardsman Lucente, "what the hell is that?" "Oh, it's just the old tailor. Don't you know about him?" The person they were referring to was a large rotund man, bald and bespectacled. He was dressed in an undershirt that looked four sizes too small and a pair of filthy black dress pants. Next to him was a small dolly which was tied to his belt by a piece of twine. On the dolly was a pile of old rags. He was sorting through a pile of trash that had been left in the street for the city carters. Calloway continued. "It's a really crazy story, like so many that you hear. It seems that when this guy was a kid, you know 17, 18, the war started. The big one. The kid was gonna be drafted. So his dear sweet mother, nut job that she was, she bricks him up in his room. Just a couple of loose bricks so she could push food in and take out the chamberpot. Told him she was saving his life. And I guess he wasn't too right either, cause he bought it. So the war ends, we win, everybody's happy, right? Only she don't tell him. She keeps him in there. For seventeen more years. "One day the old bat kicks, drops dead in the street. After a few days somebody hears him screaming blue murder, and the Guards breaks him out. But he ain't been right since. Poor guy. You gotta feel for him, even if he's a loon." "Man, you shoulda went into social work," Lucente answered. He walked over to the mad tailor and grabbed him by the arm, smashed him face first into a brick wall. "Listen you bucket of horse piss," the Guardsman hissed. "Get outa the city. If I so much as smell you, I'll feed you to the dogs. Understood?" The tailor squealed in pain and nodded. When the Guardsman released him he ran quickly through the nearby northeast exit. "Stick with me, kid," Lucente told Calloway, "and I'll learn ya something about being a Guardsman." And for the rest of the day Lucente kept his promise, evicting the homeless and the mad from the city. Old meek Charlie the Bum, the red-headed wine imbiber, the madwoman who kept screaming "The pope is a communist!", and a bunch more. When they returned to the Guardhouse at the end of their shift, Calloway lingered by the day officer's desk until Lucente was out of earshot. "If you pair me up with that piece of human turd again, I'm turning in my uniform. Believe it Sarge, this is no joke." "Funny thing," the sargeant replied, "you're the third guy to tell me that. What is it? Does he snore too loud to let yous sleep?" "I'm not kidding. If he's waiting here tomorrow, I'm gone." "Alright, alright. You're with Malone. Now I gotta find somebody for Mr. Popularity over there, thank you very much." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Well, sisters, Elvira is back. She has brought some new spell books. Elvira, "Yes, Daphine, these look good. And I also purchased a few workers to do the mundane chores around here. Don't touch him, I am going to sell his services once we get him trained." "But", complaines Mortisha, "can't we just torture him a little? you know how it affects me. Not to hurt, just a buzz?" "No", Elvira replies, "We have to get busy. I've made a few contacts, made some friends, and we don't have much time." Daphine reinforces this, "Besides, have you notice how much the books cost. Ingredents for these spells will cost us a fortune to practice on each month. Now get busy Sisters." Thus, the Sisters of the Shadow, get to work for another month. Just you wait until they learn something usefull. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Dorthy looked around her. Many pointed ears and only a few other people called leaders were to be seen. She had to restrain Toto. At least she tried, down jumped her dog and away she ran after him. Catching up, they colloded with a tall form dressed in a strange robe with many strange symbols embossed in it. A strong hand reached down and helped Dorthy to her feet. "May I help you, my lady", the Mage asker her with a resonating voice. "Were you perhaps looking to hire a few mages for your quest?" "How did you know I was on a quest?" replied Dorthy. "Well, just because I have straw instead of a brain, doesn't mean I can't observe. Everone here is on a quest." stated the stuffed figure in the patched robe. Thus started Dorthy on her quest in the new land of Atlantis. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ So he decided for combat... "Battle boys", ,he cried "This means war", he hoped "Soon we will die", he feared ------------------------------------------------------------------------ I have arrived. Watch out all you war factions, I intend to show that a properly run Trade faction will turn you war upsidedown. Of course, I will make contacts and allies with any and all that will help me to my purposes. After all, that is part of the task of doing proper business. So, I will be contacting you all for the best advantage, the best deal that can be obtained. You had better watch your shirts, because that is not my job. My job is to watch out for the assets of my investors. If you don't like my deal, then turn me down, make me a different, or better, offer. I will seize on the one that is best for me, and I expect you to do the same. Will I cheat you? Now that is not good business, the dord does get around and there are assasins available. No, not actually cheat, but you are responsible to make sure you get a good enough deal, I will be making sure I do. See you in the Marketplace. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Hogli was in his cups again. Comito quickly took stock of the situation: one empty bottle of that hideous tundra k'hlar, another half-empty. Not too bad, so long as he didn't try a spell! Comito sighed and sat down, ready to play King's Confessor once more. This morning, he'd had to calm Desmorandus from a near-killing rage, some little matter between him and Aster, always the troublemaker. Now Hogli seemed nearly suicidal, which perhaps wasn't too uncommon for a high mage. Hogli looked up, clearly in the mood to whine. "Ser Comito, my dear friend...maybe the only one I have left... *hic*. Jus' look at the Times, what they accuse me of! All my work to escape, and now...he follows me everywhere..." Comito scanned down to the indicated article, written in a strange, spidery hand. Ah yes. Some fellow had astutely observed the links back to the mysterious Other Atlantis, the World of One One, and surmised a linkage between the legendary evil Lord Vox and the God Cotugno, joining forces on this plane. A clever piece of detective work, this! Comito admired good observation skills, something he had worked hard to cultivate himself. "Ah, ser Hogli, do not fret so! This fellow is the *worst* kind of rumor-monger, and knows nothing of which he speaks! We know you to be a good and kind steward, of fairness and brilliance and vision, not the cruel and bloodthirsty beast that we know as Lord Vox. We understand your suffering..." Hogli detached himself from his bottle. "Do you really? I mean, I mean, *you* don't have those nightmares, with the bloodstained claw tapping you on your shoulder..." Hogli looked genuinely fearful. But then, k'hlar sometimes produced mild hallucinations in quantity. "Ser Hogli, that world is long behind you. And even the Great Cotugno, that claimed dominion of the Dragons and Seamonsters that so terrorized the World of One One...here he can't even get his troops to listen to his orders every month! You must live here and now, and forget the grim past." Tears welled in Hogli's eyes. "But my friend, you do not understand! Even now, sometimes, at night...I feel...I desire the taste of blood, just a drop, just to remember those awful times, just for a moment..." Comito's eyes widened, seeing the haunted but hungry expression that crossed his Master's visage. He had heard tales of Lord Vox's awful blood cellars, with the enemy's heartblood ripening and fermenting...but he had never dreamed... "Ser Hogli, I...I must leave now, for a time. I will pray to G.D for your well-being, and that you can leave these evil desires behind you. Remember, tomorrow it will be a fresh spring morning. Leave some drops in that bottle so that you may see the morning unclouded?" But Comito doubted that his advice would be well heeded tonight. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ When the wind blows across the window panes and the sounds creap into your bedroom, that is the time for the lights to dance. That is the time for the Shadow Walkers to come out. You only see them out of the corner of your eyes. Never do you get a full look at them. Hidden, they creap up on you, towards your hands and feet that are exposed to the darkness. In shadow, they touch you. With the faintest preasure, they cause a twinge of pain...You look what happened? Nothing is there, nothing YOU can SEE. But the shadows hide more than can be seen with mere eyes alone. In the shadows dwell all sorts of creatures and deamons. In the shadows are those caled the Shadow Walkers. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Zane looked around him. Many people, but what was it with these pointed ears? Just where was he? Needed to find out some things. Need to get some allies on his side. Checking his pockets, he found he had 5000 slilve. Odd, it appeared that the bounty of money did't actually weigh anything. Must be enchanted he thought. Then it hit him, he was SOMEWHERE ELSE. Enchantments mean magic. Magic means Mages. Now could he find one to help him out. He spots a sign outside a tavern. Men for sale and hire. A mage is on the list. He consideres his money, looks at the list, decides Yes, he will do it. He is on his way. Now what to do with the rest of the money? ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The awaited day is approaching with the sounding trumpets marching with the armies. The banner of the just is moving towards you. Evil doers had better more out of the way and those who would aid the march to victory will join us. We will tear down the wall surrounding the rebellious peoples and rebuild it. We will restore the wall of rightesness. Which side will you be on. Ours, or truth, or the other side. Listen to the sound and join in. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ This is a message from the Atlantean Police Department: This warning is especially for the new players and the inhabitants of the city of Abernethy (8,17), Komarken (27,2), Kashmar (3,17), Stinchar (47,6), Sledmere (47,53), and Monzon (12,12), as now that these thieves and assassins are no more safely hidden, they could emigrate to these peaceful cities. The people following are considered to be potential thieves and assassins by the Atlantis City Police forces: - Ladrao1 (922), high elf; Bem Furtivo. - Ezekiel (543), leader. - Happy Rufus Himself Indeed (307), leader; Looking Rather Peculiar. - Chief Topssot (653), leader. - Kermit (695), leader, 2 horses. - Arturo (786), leader. - Xiombarg (985), leader. - Unit (1908), leader; A *really* confused looking chap. - Divine Bean (634), leader. - Bronco Billy (2319), leader; Trying to ride, but keep falling off. - Unit (2417), high elf. - ladrao 4 (1948), high elf. - Varain (2563), leader; a man of many talents. - Audrey (327), leader. - Serenity (374), leader. - Brother Edmund (395), leader, horse; A Jolly Rotund Chiel. - Taranis (2647), leader; seeking to entertain you. - Unit (2650), high elf. - Unit (2652), leader. - Rogovsky (382), leader, horse. - Dustmote (2400), leader; dancing in the air. - Unit (926), leader. - grubjug (2925), leader. - Moonbeam (3040), leader; diligently studying something he doesn't understand. - Sundog (3041), leader; lost, confused, and not very bright. The people following were considered to be potential thieves and assassins by the Atlantis City Police forces, but since the last month, they are no more reported in Atlantis City, wether they have gone or they became too stealthy for the Police: - Unit (388), leader, horse. - Althred (289), leader; loitering with intent... - Adlai Stevenson (317), leader. - Hugo Amugo (326), leader; The big faction boss. - Duke Buddha (416), leader. - Honorable Okram (244), leader; walking in worn shoes. - Ararargh's Evil Assassin (1940), leader; Eyeing the world through a curtain of hatred.. - Stimpy (2502), leader; A silly looking cat with no tail.. The Atlantean Police Dpt. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ralf looked up. He knew he wasn't at home. There were too many trees around him. Where was he? A thought suddenly came to him, and he checked himself for wounds. Satisfied that he was unhurt, he then checked his belongings. All were there. What luck! It looked like he had survived that terrible night last night. Was it last night? Was it many nights ago? Ralf didn't know, nor did he care. He was alive, and that was all that mattered. The woods seemed peaceful enough. No signs of civilization could be seen. He caught sight of a few elves, but no one else. Ralf's luck was with him, or so he thought... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The City Council of Monzon announces : ************************************** It's clear in Monzon! The Circle of the Blue Mages (66) in combination with other magic oriented factions offers training for the various foundation skills in Monzon. Price: $75 / student and week Also casting or selling of magical spells possible. High charges since all mages are very busy at this time... The Maurarhiannons (113) are still buying swords for $100 each. Further information concerning Monzon available: Information summary about Monzon and surrounding areas, send mail to: Circle of the Blue Mages (66), krumm@informatik.tu-muenchen.de subject containing "M.I.S." Monzon Register, send mail to: Monzon Wood Exchange (289), thayer@eagle.sangamon.edu with subject line "MONZON REGISTER" ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Denbigh eyed the Silver thoughtfully. Although it differed from place to place, the Silver was traditionally forged in the shape of a small rod, sufficient to allow one or more to be held comfortably in the hand, with five equally spaced notches along its length, so that it might be broken evenly into six Bytes, for use as small change. There was some arcane system for designating these units of coin, although the only terms used with any regularity were Si, for two bytes; a Sil, or half a Silver; and the R, as in the popular phrase "Down to his last R," that is, down on his luck, or broke. The Centre had also once heard of a rather stingy paymaster who was said to "only pay the S." In theory, the Byte could be broken down still further into eight individual Bits. With the economy as it was however, Bits weren't valuable enough even to be used for fillings. For this reason, most mints tended to refrain from working the additional notches necessary for breaking bits. Denbigh remembered the story he had once heard of a human tribe in the outer domains who it is said forged their silver as beads, called Chars, strung six to a piece of twine, which was then tied at the ends, so that it might be carried as a purse or worn like a necklace. Supposedly the wealthiest of these humans were often stooped over, weighed down as they were by the fortune round their necks. He broke a Si and handed it to the Bandwidth standing in the doorway. "Now, have you got everything." The Bandwidth tested the Si between his teeth. "Yes, sir, I'm to deliver this to the headmaster of the T T T," he said, indicating an envelope in his satchel, "this to Reid's Funeral Home, and the misdelivered mail..." Denbigh picked up the unopened packet from a shelf, "...is to go to the Holy Order of the Sacred Purple Kumquat. I believe they are somewhere near Stinchar." "Yes, sir," he said, taking the package. "I really don't understand how such an error was made. They are a holy order, we are a church. They are of the Sacred Purple Kumquat," the priest held out the pendant he wore round his neck, "does this look like a Kumquat to you?" "No sir, it looks like a Snowflake." Denbigh shook his head back and forth. "Please see that this mistake isn't made again. I know you folks are busy, but if you let simple similarities in name confuse you, imagine the problems you may encounter. Well, I was reading just a few months about how there are several factions running around this plane with *exactly* the same name." "So there are, sir." "Very well." He paused, as if expecting the Bandwidth to reply. The messenger said nothing. "Just try not to let it happen again. Good day." The Bandwidth turned to leave. "Oh, I almost forgot," said the priest as he retrieved an envelope from his front pocket, take this letter to the CrimeWatch people. It concerns my suspicion that Faction 587 may be running an extortion racket in the immigrant population." "Very well, sir. I shall see that it is delivered." The Bandwidth tipped his hat, and was gone. Denbigh began leafing through the new mail as he sat down to breakfast. Postcards from Jennifer and Jessica both. Weather was good in Monzon. Competitive wages in Abernethy, and an economic cooperative? Perhaps Abernethy is vying with Monzon to be the next economic epicenter? Millie would be leaving this month. He could only hope she would find her destination as prosperous. He opened the newspaper. "Terror On the Plains," read the headline. The Sulenii Zaire were on a genocidal rampage! The priest said a silent prayer that this senseless bloodshed would not find its way into the city of Stinchar itself. A good deal of the paper was devoted to these atrocities, and to the vanished month of January. The Centre found the articles on newly established religions in the Atlantean plane interesting reading. The Church of Envy, The Holy Church of Fundaligionism. "Funny," said the priest to himself, "I would have expected a few more faiths from the otherWorldly creator's plane to have reached Atlantis by now." [This fictoid brought to you by the Church of the Purple Snowflake (72) -- landt@acf4.nyu.edu] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---=== OFFICIAL DECREE ===--- It is about time that the Holy Church of Fundaligionism stopped taking the name of Lord Hallelujahgobble in vain. The great Lord has suffered in silence in the past, but from now on, he has sternly ordered that anyone using his name in an unappropriate way is to be immediately declared hostile, and brought before the Lord's court for treason at the earliest possible date. The only possible penalty for those convicted of such a crime is death. This decree is final and unnegotiable. Signed by the Most High Aide to the Lord Hallelujahgobble ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The mage approaches the camp of miners. T'lan comes out to greet him. "Welcome, council-friend," T'lan begins. "Our home is open to your presence." The mage dismounts from the black mare. "Thank you, T'lan, but I won't be staying long. I hope to be in the valley by nightfall." "As you wish," T'lan responds. "What word do you bring from the city?" The mage smiles, "You're petition for training has been accepted. We have 12 new miners coming into the region next month, and once they're working, we will fund your training." T'lan is overwhelmed, "Thank you. My crew will be ecstatic to hear the good news. Thank you again." "It's for a good cause," the mage replies. "The more iron we can extract from this region, the more profitable we'll be. And profit is what I personally need to continue my studies." The mage jumps back onto his horse. "Until next time, T'lan." The mage then disappears down into the valley. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Death in the Family ... The void that was my heart, though it seems not possible, it is much deeper now. Walked through my past, lost, and thought hope could be found in their companionship. But, no more. The beauteaous one, and the man of mystery, they are gone. Eradicated by some foul friendship that plagued a land. Surely, they will return in some new, incarnate form. Our presence though. The foundation upon which we built and empowered ourselves has crumbled. Alliance? It falls apart at the seams. Ashes to ashes, dust in the wind. I fear that time has come that this Rose must again take root withing shadows... ... From the journals of the Black Rose ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Roy chipped merrily at the rock with his hammer. "Hmm hmm hrmm homm," he hummed. "Tweet toot too-ooo-weeeet," he whistled. Prospecting was such fun! The fresh air, the mountains - and all those rocks to chip and hammer at. With a gleeful chuckle he deposited some more samples in his satchel. He would have to begin recruiting some assistants, he mused, if the ore bearing potential of these rocks was as high as he suspected. The thought of a mine - no, a chain of mines, stretching through these mountains from one end to the other - filled his simple heart with joy. Digging and delving, these were the beginnings of industry. Once production was established trade would follow...and profit. It was enough to set him off whistling again, "Tweet tweee-ooo-eet!" ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Return of the Red Dragons...... _________________________________________________ The Legate studied the new sword which had been brought from the Republic`s Weaponsmiths. Unlike the ones his legions had been using earlier, these were made out of iron instead of wood. He grudgingly had to admit that it made for a much greater deadliness in combat. Damn expensive, though. There had to be a cheaper way to produce swords. Maybe if one used glass... His deliberations were interrupted as the latest in a long line of squires walked in. The legion had been in the need of some staff officers lately, and this was the 5th squire of this month. "Sir, the Red dragons are ready to be reviewed." "Good, good. I`ll be out in a moment, Scipio." "Yes, sir, I`m not Scipio, Sir." "Oh? Sorry about that, Michael." The squire just sighed and walked out. The Red Dragons were the unit which had so tragically been defeated by the soldiers of Ershwin, though they had extracted a terrible price on their opponents. Due to the efficient recruit -ment programme of the Legion, it had taken only 2 turns to train the 38 replacements up to the same level as the rest of the cohort. The Reds were standing at attention when the Legate emerged from his tent. Despite the sun baking down on them, they were standing in full combat outifts, everyone of them. The logistics department had been overwhelmedby the suddenness of summer, so they were still wearing their winter uniform. Over this, they wore a tight, fire proof asbestos armour. And every legionary had been issued a pair VERYCOOL (tm) sunshades, to be worn into battle. Extensive tests had shown that these diminished the effect of fireflash upon combat soldiers. The only problem was that in this sun, they were being baked. Every one of them was perspirating about a liter of water by the minute. However, that problem had been solved, the suits also contained a magic refillable water supply. As he inspected the cohort, another messenger. carrying the sign of Slunecni Zare approached and held out yet another missive from that alliances spokesman. "Michael!" "Yes, sir", the squire sighed. "Take this to the senate and call me when they finish discussing and start voting." "Yes, sir." "Why are you still standing here?" "Leaving, Sir! But please, sir, would you change your boots before you leave for the Senate chambers? I doubt that they would like to have mud all over the marble halls." "What mud?" The Legate said, sinking three inches more into the ground... ********************************************************************The Forum Romanum is the official Atlantis Home Page of the Dragon Legions and the Republic of Rome. Forum Romanum: http//www-i8.auc.dk/~strategy/Atlantis.html If you have anything that you would like to place in the Forum, (or Newbie/Experienced Player aids for the Hall of Records), then pleasecontact me. -- Geoff Dunbar <atlantis@rahul.net> Up