Atlantis 2.0: Times 11 From: Geoff Dunbar <atlantis@rahul.net> Date: Tue, 18 Apr 1995 00:00:00 +0000 Atlantis 2.0 Times December, Year 1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Game Master Notes: atlantis@rahul.net for information, problems, or to play. All right, things should be slightly back to normal now. Look for a lot of bug fixes, additions, and changes over the next few weeks (months?). Bug Fixes This Turn: none. Additions This Turn: none. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Melvin relaxed against the wooden seat back as he ate his dinner. It had been a busy day -- troops to train, food to buy, locals' complaints to hear -- and he was glad to have a moment of peace. Then the door opened. That surprised Melvin, for he had left strict orders not to be disturbed. He even thought that the elven guards had understood him for once. Melvin was even more surprised, however, when Abercrombe hurried in. Abercrombe never hurried. Ever. Not to mention that Melvin never _saw_ him enter anyplace. "He must be slipping," Melvin mused, not without a hint of satisfaction. Melvin's speculation came to an abrupt halt when Abercrombe spoke: "Commander Matrim's forces have been attacked," he announced, almost calmly. Melvin leapt to his feet, strewing a bowlful of nutmeats across the table and onto the floor. "Details!" he demanded. "The message arrived moments ago by pigeon," Abercrombe replied. "At dawn two days ago, a force of more than two score elves marched without provocation on Matrim's encampment. The guards were alert and mounted a strong defense, but they were overwhelmed by sheer numbers. Matrim has gone into hiding." "Who is responsible?" Melvin asked in a harsh near-whisper. "Matrim is unsure, but he reports that they used 'Glory to 345!' as a battlecry, whatever that signifies." A dark gleam came to Melvin's eye. "I will have those bastards' heads on pikes," he murmured. "By the icy wind of Galan's sixth Hell," he continued, louder, "before I am through with them they will curse the day they were born!" Abercrombe only nodded grimly. "Fetch a pigeon," Melvin ordered. "From the third cage." As Abercrombe left on the errand, a faraway look came to Melvin's face. "Let them revel in their moment of victory," he said softly. A cruching sound filled the room as Melvin crushed a spilled nutmeat beneath his boot heel. "I doubt whether they know enough to be afraid." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The snows had frozen the mountain passes above Kashmar, making travel all but impossible; though this slowed down expansion, leaving good soldiers sitting in barracks polishing their weapons, the Captain reflected that, in its own way, the inclement weather was a boon. Snowbound travellers, stuck for the duration of the winter anyhow, were talking of becoming permanent residents and opening up shops. Commerce was booming. The little mountain nation was prospering. [Several areas SW of Kashmar are claimed by faction 109, the Free Companions, yaj@cc.gatech.edu. Traders welcome, foreign soldiers unwelcome; please contact before entering the area.] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Wisdom from the desk of Tristam, Eat your spinach, it's good for you. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ A MESSAGE FROM THE MAURARHIANNONS Many of our potential customers have not read our advertisements in this paper of late and have missed some important information. Hopefully you are reading this one. If you enter any territory where there are Maurarhiannon units On Guard please contact us at matthew@clark.net and state your business. Failure to do this leaves questions in our mind as to your intentions, and will most probably have results not conducive to profitable relations. To the owner of Stealthed unit 1602 "leader, lurking in the shadows", we can only assume you sent us this unit for combat practice and have responded accordingly. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "As you run merrily through the pastures of life, it's wise to look out for the manure." Saying of the Kumquat, #37 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Skeletons - Great Muuf 1:0 ! 16 living skeletons skeletons attacked Fef (580) last month in Rantlu (48,3). Single nomad belonging to Great Muuf's faction was routed in first turn. Neither Fef nor skeletons showed any combat or tactic skill. Some of spectators were so bored, that they fell asleep. We dreamed about great battle, said Stinchar thought police. We dreamed about battle with dangerous enemy with two attacks per round, two hitpoints in each turn, and about great victory of our forces. But this - pfffff... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Boudiccea awakes. In her dream she thought she would hear a voice whispering. She lits up a candle and looks around in her tent. And she hears the voice whispering again. "Who's there", she asks. "Is there anybody." Noone answers. She leaves her tent and looks outside. Nothing. "Hmm, seems that someone tries to talk to me. Perhaps I should concentrate my thoughts." And so she does. And the voice is becoming clearer and louder. "Hello, perhaps you, mighty sorceress, can help me? I have lost this spell of Shadow walking and no I am lost in the Shadows. Please, tell me the spell casting, so I can leave the Shadows. Do you hear me mighty sorcerss??" "Strange, such a communication", Boudiccea thinks and she concentrates again and sends her thoughts in the Shadows. "Thats just simple, you need only the orth and the vas runes" and so she tells how to cast the spell. "Thank you, you have saved my life. Therefore I will give you the spell of mind reading ... ". Boudiccea listens carefully and makes some notices. "Bye, mighty sorceress, perhaps we will meet sometime somewhere" and the voice vanishes. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ THE UNRELIABLE SOURCE Atlantis City (AP) - The Unreliable Source would like to welcome the Great Geoff to the ranks of the married. It is good to know that now he has a higher authority to answer to. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The battle has been won. The forest is truly ours. Now we build up our forces and create a defendable base for our magic research. Soon, maybe we can be daring and jump to another part of atlantis, or research enough to stay in the shadow world. ***** 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 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ There is a faction in Atlantis made solely of very short tribesmen. They live in the high grass prairie. Every once in a while you will see them jump up above the height of the grass, look around and call out their faction name.... "We're the Facarwi!" ------------------------------------------------------------------------ WANTED ------ New victums, er, immigrants, to the Komarken or Kilorglin areas. No references or skills necessary other than a general naivete. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ To: Magic Factions From: Trade and War Factions Subject: Income, Resources and Everything QUIT WHINING! If you feel like the trade/war factions are better, SWITCH! This message courtesy of DECAF (Diplomacy Enables Competition of All Factions). ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Eureka!" exclaims The Blind One. "What is it Paul?" The meek servant asks. "I have finally found out how this box works!" ...the blind one stumbles over to the meek servant, tripping over many vials and other magickry. The two loom over the box and the Blind One starts to move his fingers in and around the sharp edges of the box. Slowly, one by one, he presses levers in and out until finally, the box opens! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > CALL FOR IMMIGRANTS > ------------------- > a response to the outrageous tirade made by the > cruel and heartless Newt Dingbats in last weeks Times > ------------------- > We need MORE immigrants streaming in over the Atlantis City borders > > AND WE NEED THEM NOW! > [much mindless, immoral, and irresponsible dribble in support of diseased and lazy High Elves removed] > > So there. McNuggets to you Newt. Nyah. > > Billary the Sophist > Oligarch of W_elf_aretonia Go back to HEL where you belong. You elitist demigod. You admit that these foreigners are all diseased, lazy, and downright yucky, and yet you call for them to come to our wonderful and wholesome city? I'm going to gather a bunch of fine young orc-youths and have them stuff you back through the one way portal from Atlantis city. Newt Dingbats =|8^{ (Abernethy reactionaries for the one right way) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Still going strong. The Monzon Movers (a subsiduary of the Picts) is ready to take your orders. Mined some iron/stone? Need to move it to your customer? Call us now. C.O.D. orders taken as well. Complete discretion and reliability. Need to transfer a large amount of money to another unit as quickly as possible? Then you need our express service. Call now for details. Complete discretion and reliability. Armed and highly trained guards on request. CALL NOW AT pdxark@evol.nott.ac.uk Disclaimers. The Monzon Movers will not be held responsible for the effects of bad weather Compensation will be paid on losses due to robbery ( though this will depend on the amount of protection bought). ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Rayelin, where are you and your wimpy units? Mon amour, you make me cry with all of your territorial pissing. I have 24 wood elves trained in hunting and when I sell these furs I will buy them all swords. When I cast the Cloak or Stealth you won't know from where the knife came. Or did you decide to go elsewhere, I hope so. Your paper Republic is a figment of your greedy and overworked imagination. You should go back to Stinchar with your tail between your legs little doggie. Maybe you can mark you territory there. Your Roman steel scares me - see me shaking in fear - does it exist? Let me know when you are coming to the Rantlu forest so I can sharpen the real steel that will make you eat your words, egregious mutt. And to the rest of your "republic": where is your leader? ------------------------------------------------------------------------ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Scenarios - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (1st Advert) All players interested in joining goal oriented roleplaying scenarios, please email at the address below. Scenarios include heroic quests, malevolent plots of skulduggery and mayhem, ad thrilling nauseam. Details: 1) Almost all players who participate will donate either men, money, items, or regions for the plot. While there will be plots that ask for minimal donations, expect to contribute something material if you join a scenario. Recognizing that beginning factions have precious little to contribute, we will not require a large donation for the early scenarios. By 'donation', we do _not_ mean 'payment', but a contribution of 'props' for the scenes and staging of the roleplay. 2) Scenarios will not start for a good many months game time, as this is only the first advertisement, and a fair amount of organizational work lies ahead. 3) If you are interested in supervising scenarios in your area of the game world, indicate your interest in your email, and a brief explanation of why you are interested--you have game mastered before, you have some neat ideas for your region, etcetera. 4) Roleplaying will take place via email to _players of the plot only_. No scenario mail will be forwarded to the atlantis players list. Participants who continually violate this guideline will be removed from the scenario. 5) If there is enough interest, roleplaying could be taken to an online forum -- IRC, Mush, etcetera. 6) These scenarios are entirely player run. They are completely independent of the game moderator. As such, do not email the game moderator with questions or comments regarding the scenarios. 7) The success of the scenarios relies, in part, on the fairness and honesty of the participants. If players act dishonestly in the scenarios, and take advantage of other participants beyond the limits of what is acceptable in the scenario, we will have no qualms about moving non-scenario forces to remedy the uncooperative player(s). Please direct all questions and comments to: oliverg@carleton.edu We strongly encourage you to not quote this advert in your reply. Thank you. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ------------------------------------------------------------------------ @*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@ MIST Thanks to everyone who has contributed to the MIST project. You should all have received a full version of Volume 1.1 of MIST, containing all Level One spells. If anyone contributed but hasn't received the list then please get in touch. New Contributors : Please note that submission for Level One spells is now closed. If you wish to join the MIST project, please submit a spell description for Level 2, or information that a spell does not currently exist for a partcular foundation at Level 2. Existing Contributors : I'll be in contact soon with regards to how I intend to handle Level 2 submissions and future updates to MIST. Happy Spellcasting !! Raindog The Venerable The Black Riders (17) martin@raindog.demon.co.uk @*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@*@ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Glomeran Alliance Slunecni Zare needs more Trade Factions. If you think you have what it takes to become a wealthy trader, contact The Foreign Minister pfleming@eros.otago.ac.nz -King Chromic Acid For Slunecni Zare ------------------------------------------------------------------------ If everything goes well I'll have produced 3 or 6 plate armors this turn. What am I going to do with them?Sell them! I can sell them for $450 each for anyone interested.Or I can exchange them for iron so I can produce more and more of them ... .For our allies of course the price can be negotiated. They are in (4,18) but can be delivered in a horse's range from (4,18) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ I can also teach many skills in Kashmar if you are interested contact me. Trade skills only. The working faction 181 andrew@hra.ergasya.tuc.gr ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Still Going: THE CARTOGRAPHER'S COOPERATION CONSORTIUM ! 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 (Saturday, 4/8/95). We currently have mapping data on ~300 areas, with economic data on perhaps one hundred. INCLUDING A CONTINENT PREVIOUSLY UNKNOWN. 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. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Looking about Atlantis City and seeing only a massive throng of High Elves, and hearing reports of similar views everywhere nearby, Klavian quietly begins the incantation to summon a small black portal... Where it will take him, he knows not (nor does he care...) If you are suddenly visited upon by a unit composed of 1 Leader named Klavian, please hold from destroying him outright - he didn't arrive there on purpose, and he is only passing through... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ You may have heard about them in your local tavern. A friend may have whispered something to you in the fields or the woods when you were taking a break from the morning's labour. Possibly you even remember the stories that your aunt told you to frighten you into silence on cold winters' evenings. Whatever you've heard about those strange creatures called MAGICIANS, it's all true! Yes, they sacrifice babies to increase their arcane knowledge. They torture small furry animals, and make the milk go even more sour in the udders of the goats of your flock. Most MAGICIANS are not even human. It has been told by the righteous warlords that whenevr they cut a MAGICIAN open with their noble blades, the fiendish creatures turn into swarming insects and try to fly away. Only the fires of the inquisitors can scourge our holy lands of the threat that these demonic creatures pose. And remember, it is better that all of Atlantis be put under the just yoke of tyranny and oppression, if by so doing we can ensure that no MAGICIAN goes free to challenge our ignorance! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ >From his vantage point Prag could see nothing to the north. The forest was thick with evergreens and the snow clung wet and miserable on the boughs. Being in a hollow didn't help the view nor did the smoke from the fire. What a thick forest, thought Prag, I wonder why there is no path leading through to the north? The way is completely blocked by snow and ice and now there is no way to meet him. The exasperation showed plainly on his face. If only we hadn't stopped; if only we'd continued on; then we could have met him next month; now we must wait for spring. Five years is a long time to miss ones only and life long friend. I wonder what he'll think of the sot I'm hooked up with? There was no doubt that Valdez was a peaceful and kind man; in fact he was the most peaceful and kind man that Prag had ever met; Zendall, would not like Valdez; would most likely kill him. Prag looked over at the industrious Valdez. The little man was sipping at a cup of the vile potion he occasionally brewed. Valdez had some of the men out learning the art of extracting trees from the forest, others were out extorting money from the surrounding peasants even Prag was told to study. It was too bad really, thought Prag, the man is quite good, even useful, in an odd sort of way. Prag and Zendall had never before had a merchant in their company. Maybe Valdez could be used...for a little while. Ah well back to the books...hmm...out flanking manuvers... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ To all present and future students of the Hermetic Order Collegium; The Collegium will be teaching both life and construct to level 2 for the next two sessions. Again the cost is only 60 silver per turn; we would also welcome any spells which you might learn based on this training as for the most part we have emphasized the forms while leaving the spells for the future. REMEMBER: You must be friendly to the Hermetic Order (215) in order to receive this training. Email the Registrars office at: Jepether@flash.lakeheadu.ca In other news, the Hermetic Order will soon be publishing the official philosophy which the mages belonging to it subscribe. For the most part this will emphasize knowledge for knowledge's sake as opposed to the use of magic for more nefarious goals. Note, however, that this is not a required mindset for students. We will also be offering honourary membership in the Hermetic Order shortly. The nature of this membership is at the moment undecided. Watch for future notices in the TIMES regarding both of these occurances. Thank you; The mages of the Hermetic Order Aelfstan -Head Master Aidan -Professor Galen -Professor ------------------------------------------------------------------------ these STUPID elves tell them to go one direction and they go another . happend to my allies to. The whole goup of them ran off singing "the hills are alive" whith what the didn't say but the didn't go to the hills they went to the plains. another month wasted and all our planns ruined. Stupid elves.... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo o O O ATLANTEAN BOOKMAKING o o O OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOo Since my proverbs don't make profit, I'm turning to bookmaking. Let's all bet on this fascinant subject : * Will Kashmar be sacked in three months ? I'm waving to the Delighted Ones as the closest to fellow buffoons I have found so far (and warn them beware of Barnacle Turing! Keep pure!). Yet some people seem to be afraid it might be possible. So MAYBE they have good reasons to think so ? And maybe I'm still alone in the buffoonery business ? That's a sad thought indeed. Let's register bets on these other subjects, too : * Will the Captain survive to the Mad Queen ? * Will the Mad Queen survive to the Captain ? * What are the names of the unknown cities to which the Atlantis Gates will lead next ? * Will my next articles regain the quality that you were used to, O ye all my faithful readers ? *chuckle* - Acrobatty the Rigolo and the Jokomicalaughunny Buffons (229) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The shadowy figure pulled the cloak around tightly. Winter had arrived. The change in weather slowed their rate of travel. The rider felt the cold but could not be harmed by it. The horse was different and the constant exposure was beginning to take its toll. Dusk was approaching. In the distance the rider noted a significant grouping of lights. It had been months since the last time they had encountered a town and this one was only a little further. The rider looked at the horse and decided that both could use a break from setting up camp out in the weather. "I hope the town guard is friendly." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Cuando se reunieron todos,en medio de la tormenta que les habia hecho llegar, se prepararon para la Busqueda. Sabian que seria la tarea mas dificil, pero para eso estaban alli los cuatro, y no eran solo ellos, eran algo mas, semi-dioses, cada uno tenia no solo su poder sino el de su Dios, el de los cuatro dioses. Por algun lugar tenian que empezar en este nuevo mundo... Atlantis, un nuevo lugar para la Busqueda de Siempre. Hirgul recordaba... otros lugares, otras epocas... pero siempre la misma Busqueda; terminaria alguna vez? Podria descansar en algun lugar? Al principio la inmortalidad esta bien (pensaba Hirgul) pero los milenios, tantos mundos, exitos y fracaso ya empezaban a pesar, ademas este mundo tenia algo especial, lo sentia en la piel. Hirgul, es la hora de partir-le recordo Naurang, su hermano-sera mejor que nos apresuremos, esta vez hemos empezado tarde, los Otros nos llevan un mes de ventaja, habran encontrado ya alguna pista. Si, Naurang tiene razon, apresuremonos-grito Manmir, en la tormenta-tenemos que adelantarnos, o sera demasiado tarde. Ademas este mundo parece especial, quizas aqui terminemos la Busqueda, y debemos ser los primeros. Emprendieron el Viaje, la Busqueda; los ejercitos surgidos de la tiniebla en la tormenta partieron rumbo Stinchar... to be continued... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Let the fate of the so called WELCOMING HAND be a warning to all who oppose the will of THE DIRE DIGETT OF DARKNESS. I DA BIG DIGETT will deliver destruction and slaghter to any unwelcome trespassers on our lands. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ If you are in Menter and you are peaceful, don't worry, it is not a problem, only you will have to pay your taxes and you will be free to work, entertain or what ever you want. The new Menter council is going to come. You will know when it happend. You will see the blood and death running around our city. The taxes will be set up soon for peaceful groups but will be more secure for them to be out of the city during the war. By the way, try set the guards like ally and you will know the power of the new Menter council. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gunnar stared out out of the tavern's door at the swirling snow. He, along with Aidan, Arnulf and Niall had left Atlantis City the previous month. They had randomly picked one of the main gates out of the city. All of the companions felt the same sense of magical dislocation that they had first felt when they arrived in this world. Their choice of gates could have been better, however. Since they'd arrived in this city the roads out of town had been blocked by deep snowdrifts. In Gunnar's opinion, the storms didn't look like they would let up for some time. He turned to his companions seated around a scarred table. "Well, guys. Looks like there's nothing to do. Nothing that is, except DRINK!" Arnulf and Niall responded to Gunnar's announcement by chanting "Drink, Drink, Drink". Niall gestured to the bartender to bring another round of drinks. Arnulf continued chanting. From all appearances, the lad had been drinking far more than he was accustomed to. "You three can drink the day away but I need some intellectual stimulation," responded Aidan. "I've tried to have an intelligent discussion with the three of you, but it's a lost cause." Aidan stood and walked to the rear of the tavern, where a group of people were betting on cockroach races. All the while, the one-armed man standing beneath the stairs stared at the four companions. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Now Open! In hex 51,7! Saint Foreaufru's School for Wayward Girls In Lycra MiniSkirts. Do you have a bad girl? I mean really bad? Then send her to Saint F's School for Wayward Girls. Here at Saint Foreaufru's we pride ourselves on a class design and structure that will make your naughty girl nice. Here is a sample listing of classes available this spring. Discipline! Abject Humiliation Discipline! Groveling for favour NO is a bad word Discipline! OBEY! and of course the school favorite.....Wood Shop!!!!! So if you have a girl who needs Discipline stop by or write to Saint Foreaufru's School for Wayward Girls in Lycra MiniSkirts. And parents don't forget! Coming soon Saint Foreaufru's Really Strict School for Naughty Boys, watch for our ads coming soon! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ We passed the long winter season retelling our tribe's tales. When it came my turn, I recited my story: When the world was young, the gods were content, and they caused each thing to be divided each into its proper sphere, and there was "e-mail" for roleplaying, and "atl-players" for questions and answers, and "times" for advertising, and also in this day there was "ftp" for transfering files among the gods. There passed at that time a month that gained renown as the month of the Controversial Halellujahgobble Thingy, but that is another tale. Then there arose in atlantis gods that knew not ftp. And suddenly "atl-players" was crammed with lengthy uuencoded binary files that appeared as gibberish to those of mortal ken. And suddenly certain other gods found themselves longing once again for the time of the Controversial Halellujahgobble Thingy. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Hmm, seems that there could be a bit of truth in what you've said about those skeletons.. I've dreamed they almost routed about 40 troopers.. But it wouldn't be _so_ terrible as you've suggested.. That one has to have mithril swords to kill them, ressurecting stuff... *sigh* But it was indeed beutiful dream anyway.. You remember I wondered if they could be forced to attack our enemies? That's what this dream was all about.. Unfortunately, in reality they decided otherwise and attacked some poor scout who even didn't know how to defend himself. Maybe next month we'll have better luck... I just hope they will not see our scout. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Un turno mas, un desastre mas. La ultima decision arbitraria de Geoff de cambiar las reglas sin previo aviso me ha costado nada menos que 50 Altos Elfos, 20 de ellos entrenados en combat, y un lider, tambien entrenado. Por que quitan el Work como accion por defecto y no avisan previamente? Seguramente lo hacen para que mis tropas mueran de hambre. sin embargo la venganza sera terrible. Tan pronto como me recupere no quedara ni un Guardian de ciudad, ni un animal salvaje, ni nada que tenga que ver con la faccion 1 del juego. Pequenna pero apetitosa venganza. Hasta pronto...........................Francis O O L ~-~ `"' ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Mr. Lunchnick, part 2: The flame in the rusty iron lamp started to bob as it ran out of fuel. Mr. Lunchnick and I had been talking for quite a while at a table which smelled slightly of mold and was uncomfortably wet at places. As we talked, the rain outside has passed and I could tell that night had fallen. I knew that every minute I stayed here meant that my chances of getting home safely grew less, but I was too fascinated by the man sitting across the table from me to leave. Here was an embassador from a foreign world, it seemed, and he was telling me secrets of his illicit life that I'm sure he never admitted to anyone before. Born in this city, he had never left it's grime and violence, even for an hour outside the city gates. He had only fleeting memories of his mother, and no concept of his father, but he remembered well the first street bully that beat him senseless and took his four measly coppers he had worked all week to earn carrying bales of hay into the stables. He had vowed vengence that day, by any means possible, and being a man of slight stature, took to stealth and subtlety to keep himself fed. Two years later he had finally knifed the street bully in the belly and watched him bleed to death in an alley, but admitted that it brought him no relief - the man was dead drunk, and there was no joy in killing a defensless oaf. For the next few months Mr. Lunchnick had preyed mercilessly on the local populace, seeking some sort of balm for his inner turmoil over the senseless killing. He had established a protection network in the local marketplace, and was well feared by the merchants. While it brought him the first wealth of any sort that he had known, it also drove him further into himself. He lived the life of a recluse, emerging only in the evening to watch other people from the shadows, trying to find some meaning in his own life by searching for the meaning in other people's lives. It was after many months of this ruthless existence that he finally came to believe that there was no purpose to anything, and that it made no difference what he did or who he terrorized. At that point he didn't even see any use in his violent ways, and left the merchants to their days of futile moneymaking. He then entered a dark and damnable period where he only found entertainment in killing... To be continued ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ghost of Blue Sandals is going over land ... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Nos llegan malas noticias del ultimo turno. Parece que los Dioses han cambiado el comportamiento del mundo y a partir de ahora quien no decida expresamente trabajar no lo hara. Quiza no sea mala idea, libreme yo de juzgar a los dioses, pero bien podian haberla anunciado antes de hacerla efectiva. Esa falta total de consideracion hacia los mortales me ha costado la muerte por inanicion de 29 altos elfos. En fin... Geoff nos da y Geoff nos quita. Sea su voluntad. Sin embargo somos una faccion fuerte y es por esto que no nos rendimos. Seguimos dedicados a la magia y dispuestos a colaborar con quien quiera y desee. Tenemos varios magos con conocimiento de todas las areas de la magia dispuestos a ensennar a quien lo solicite (desgraciadamente y hasta que salgamos del bache impuesto p�r los dioses, no tenemos mas remedio que cobrar la manutencion de los profesores a quien quiera nuestra ensennanza). A si mismo tambien estamos dispuestos a aprender de quien este dispuesto a ayudarnos. Para mas informacion contactar con Javier@nemesis.iic.uam.es . . /^\ . Con los respetos del /\ "V" /__\ I O o Circulo Interno. //..\\ I . (288) \].`[/ I /l\/j\ (] . O /. ~~ ,\/I . \\L__j^\/I o \/--v} I o . | | I _________ | | I c(` ')o | l I \. ,/ _/j L l\_! _//^---^\\_ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ** MONZON WOOD EXCHANGE ** Monzon Bulletin #3 Published by the Monzon Wood Exchange (289), thayer@sangamon.edu * Monthly Reminder The Monzon Register is a freely available almanac of information about the Monzon area. To receive a copy of the Register, send email to thayer@sangamon.edu, with the subject 'MONZON REGISTER'. You will receive the most up-to-date version via return mail. We continue to solicit contributions of economic or mapping data, as well as faction descriptions or land claims. *NEW* the Register now includes a list of claims on the lands surrounding Monzon! * "Volkswagon" sighted in Monzon! This past month, the residents of Monzon were treated to the unusual sight of a wagon moving about town without the aid of horses. This magical wagon was soon revealed to be the work of Valderesse, leader of the Circle of the Blue Mages. After racing through the streets of Monzon, she described how a similiar vehicle would soon be in the garage of every citizen of Monzon. "The Volkswagon must be a vehicle for the working class!" stated Valderesse in a well-received address attended by hundreds of city denizens. The production version is rumored to be under contract to the noted designer 'Geoff' Porsche, and is expected to cost well under $1000. Skeptics, many of them teamsters, claim that the Volkswagon is no better than 2.5 horses. "Yes, but where do you get .5 horse?" replies Valderesse. * Business Opportunities The Monzon Wood Exchange still has a few opportunities for factions interested in cutting wood. Wood cutting is an excellent way for a starting trade faction to find their place in the Monzon market. Profits are competitive with herb gathering, and once a secure base is set up, wood production can be diverted to weapons, wagons, or ships. The Exchange continues to offer $36 for wood anywhere in the Monzon area, and $44 for wood within the boundaries of Monzon itself. Magic factions can still invest their money in the Monzon Wood Exchange. We continue to offer 15% interest monthly on all deposits. At these rates, a Magic faction could support five mages with a $4000 investment (although we accept investments as small as $300). If your interest were allowed to compound, this would amount to 425% interest over the course of a year. In case there should be any confusion, these are ATLANTIS months! For information on these, and other business opportunities, send mail to the Monzon Wood Exchange, thayer@sangamon.edu. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Over Monzon a rainbow appeared -- in the middle of the night. It shimmered brilliantly in the night sky. Such a sight was unheralded and unprecedented. It caused all of the citizens of Monzon, from merchant to beggar, from Baron to peasant, to gape in wonder. Strolling calmly under the spectacle, Angmar watched as his scouts set out to brave the harsh winter, in search of an area to establish his Fortress of the Ancients. The Great Gods of the Ancients smile upon us, he thought. The have chosen this day of our departure as the day upon which two of the lifethreads of the Great Ancients are becoming as one. May the Ancients bless this joyous union of two spirits. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Overlord of Acme Labs relaxed with his margarita on the sleepy vacation island off the coast of Stinchar. He dreams of cyclotrons, flying wings and jet propulsion. One day perhaps. For now, he must content himself with teaching these fools the basics. At first things had gone well. His students seemed receptive to his lectures on mass, velocity and inertia. However, leverage was a problem. A dangerous notion that. As he drank himself stuperous watching sea nymphs cavort about the pool, no doubt his students were still gleefully exploring the possibilites of leverage by whacking each other with 3-foot sticks. If only this creativity could be harnessed in some way... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ To: atlantis@rahul.net.TO.ALL.FACTIONS.LIVING.IN.ATLANTIS.CITY.BORDER.TOWNS:-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.Run!Run.like.the.Wind!, but.by.all.means.Run!The.tyrannical.despots.known.as.W-Elf-aretonians.are.coming.with.their.Elf.minions@ix.netcom.com, coming to control every aspect of our once prosperous and fruitful lives and they won't be satisfied until they've sucked every last Silver piece we have out of our pockets and stolen every hex of land we sweated and slaved over in order to make a nice home for our families. Because if we don't Run! we'll have to stand and Fight! to oppose the systematic destruction of our magnificent culture brought on by the perverse and degenerate values taugh, t.by.this.W-Elf-aretonian.Oligarchy.and.its.army.of.vile.Elf.politicians.and.their.twisted.lawyer.henchmen.@ix.netcom.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Jancl sat quietly in Monzon and looked at the reports from the scouts. Most were stranded and working odd jobs for food such as the one whose report he was currently pouring over: To Jancl, Director Central Division Inc.(311), Inc. I have been stuck here for two months now. The snow has made travel impossible and I have been forced to take employ chopping wood for a small tavern and a few farmers. With this I have managed to keep well fed but little more. Attempts to contact others in the region have failed but we will try again soon. This is most alarming as this almost appears an armed camp. Unfortunately the memebers of this band wear no crest and keep to themselves. While I admire their degree or discipline and dedication it is most unfortunate that I have not been able to discuss trade with a representative. The best I have been able to determine is that the man I wish to speak with is Tauron but I have had no luck locating him. Survey Crew, Herb Division. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Market prices of items: The basic price of raw materials (iron, wood, furs, fish, stone, horses, and herbs -- all of which can be produced in 1 turn) is $60. The basic price of most manufactured items (swords, chain, longbows, and crossbows -- which can all be produced in 2 turns) is $120. The basic price of wagons is $200, and the basic price of plate is $500. A city or town that wants the item will pay the basic price per unit and one that is selling it will charge 2 X the basic price. If the city or town is adjacent to a hex that contains the raw materials necessary to produce the item, there is a 40% discount to both buying and selling prices (i.e. $36 for the city to buy raw materials, $72 for most manufactured, $120 for wagons, and $300 for plate). Analysis by Dendarin's Generic Manufacturing Co. (317). Data from CCC. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ I, Barnacle Turing, would like to publicly commend the city guards in the various metropoli of Atlantis. They have maintained law and order with the utmost impartiality, and without intruding upon our civil liberties. Therefore, in the midst of the current chaos and warmongering, I wish to make a public commendation of the city guards efforts, and to announce that I wholeheartedly endorse the proposal of "The Light in the Dark" to ally with the city guards. I, and all my Company, have made just such an alliance, in spite of our complete lack of any combat experience, training, or weapons. I strongly encourage every other peaceable citizen of Atlantis to do the same. Barnacle Turing, artistic director of the Turing Players, former president of the Atlantis Guild of Professional Entertainers, and former dean of the Turing Theatrical Institute ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Hello. My name is Pieter(335) and I wrote about an article written in times last edition. That article said there are some players that use the same computer: mest.unizar.es That is rigth, but it is due to: - We are students in the university of Zaragoza (Spain) - In this university, the email is directed to a central server. - The central server sends the messages to the right adress (generally). - So, we have a similar adress. For a longer explain write me to: Pieter@mest.unizar.es I promise you a quick answer. Pieter. (335) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ I, claim myself the title of the Pirate's hunter. I hate those dirty pirates and I weill destroy their ships and hung up them in the Market Place of Sledmere during 2 weeks!. Those pirates who cowardly aboard poor and unarmed spanish fishships are no more allowed in Atlantis Coast. This is the last warning. THE RULER OF SLEDMERE, AND THE PIRATE'S HUNTER PD. If you are thinking walk through pirate's life come back or I will be forced to KILL you. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ TO ALL FACTIONS! From now on EVERYONE is PROHIBITTED to enter the town of SLEDMERE. We hope you understand this: EVERYONE especially new players be warned: Our tests are finished, we are now able to steal and assassinate ANYBODY, we want to! PUNISHMENT The PUNISHMENT for coming to the SLEDMERE Area will be: DEATH or loss of MUCH MONEY. All Stealth units note: We also have a very high OBSERVATION level. You will be seen. High observation units note: You will be dead soon! If you are in Sledmere: Better move out, or you will be caught. If you are in the surrounding towns and woods: BE WARNED, too We will take over all this area AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! SLEDMERE IS PROHIBITED TO ENTER STAY AWAY FROM SLEDMERE THIS IS OUR ONE AND ONLY WARNING WARNING WARNING SATANS COMPANY ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Voice of Reason in Sledmere: ( Reported by L'Ordre du Temple (faction 366) ) Once again tension is in the air in the regions around Sledmere, Ellesmere and Menter. Rumors of numerous large alliances and of large combatant units around the cities have been heard. It looks like the situation may degenerate in total open war, if nothing is done. Some factions, like us, deployed large diplomatic maneuvers to bring peace back in this region. We are sure that there are more peaceful people than violent one. We could ally against the bully ! So all parties involved are invited to sit down together at a virtual meeting table to resolve their differences, or something could be made against them ! We hope solution could be find. OOC: I have made a colored map of the environs of Sledmere (thanks to the Platinum Map), can someone email me WHERE, on a ftp site, I could upload it ? Don't email me to say : << I'm interested about your beautiful map, could you email me it, blablabla >>, I will say next turn, where I would have uploaded it. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ UNIVERSITY OF T T T Greetings Atlantis !!!!!! After much studying, privations, and personal hardship, we have acquired our Teaching Permits and received approval of The Required Forms. ANNOUNCING THE OPENING OF THE TRANSOCEANIC TRAINING TROOP !!!! T T T is now open for your business !!!! This University will train you while allowing you to save silver and gain quick months worth of skill levels. Your cost? Why low of course. We start out at a mere 15 silver per month per individual. But, you can gain big with a large enrollment. Three students for only 30 silver total. But look --> enroll 4 for only 40 silver And even better now --> each additional unit only 5 silver each. You need not have all students enrolled in the same skill either. 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: Combat, stealth, observation, lumberjack, healing, mining, weaponsmith, riding, horse training, quarrying, mage skills, and more. At various levels. 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. Disclaimer: the registor's office informs me that there is a higher charge for skills that require 50, 100, or 200 silver a month. But you will still save by using our training. The second month will save you more as you enroll more students in a particular college of training: 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 *** (advert sponsored by Civilain Construction Corps) {not all skills are available every month. Advance notice will help ensure your particular skill is available} Anson Winsor Civilain Construction Corps apwinsor@cs.unlv.edu ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Cast loose from that woman", demands Knowleswright. "Free yourself from her embrace and get moving." he further demands, striking out at the couple seated in the RED ROSE house. "But master, I've only just had one drink", whines Phileas, his scribe. "You promised me a night when I finally got your orders sent out correctly." "I said get moving," repeats Knowleswright. "You need to get the next months orders ready now. Besides, I did find a minor error in the last ones. Minor, yes, but it is still there. Now finish your brew and get back to the work shop." Phileas slowly complies, regretfully looking at the lovely woman that had been seated on his lap. Fearing the wrath of his demanding master, he finished the mug and get up to leave. "What I go through for so little silver," he mumbles to himself as he heads to the doorway with others that are being rounded up and send back. "Perhaps I could mess the orders up on purpose," he thinks. "Just some little error that could be missed at first." He looks back at his master urging the other men down the street. "It would have to be subtle, not traced to himself," he continues thinking. "But maybe he wouldn't have to. The master's orders are so complicated that it takes a Sage to even understand them. "No," he decides, "I will wait and see." He might want references when all the troops leave the city. He planned on staying behind, he wasn't about to go out on the campaign. One might get hurt out there. Knowleswright, hearding these few unit back to the inn was rather pleased. He'd done well this month. Units trained, had made a complete alliance with two other factions, and three more were listening to him. Yes, it was time for the trained troops to leave, obtain better weapons. Need to have defense from upstarts that might want the same places the Aliance had choosen. If they were there first, too bad! Knowleswright could find himself in trouble this time. No telling what could happen if his scribe were to go pschyco on him. He should hope that loyalty can be bought afterall. is loyalty was promised, but strange things had been happeinig to his orders by the time they had been carried out. What will happen this month?..... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Well, unlike Spring, War is breaking out all over the Stinchar area. Perhaps you deserve to be killed, but if you think not, perhaps you can resolve your differences through the Untied Factions of Stinchar. There are currently 41 factions on our mailing list, but we'd like to have more. MORE, MORE, MORE! More is better, right? Well, we think so. So send a note to shook@ibg.colorado.edu today and you too can see all the latest breaking diplomacy, land claims, and insults. Or you can send out your own! I think a dispute over ownership of certain forest hexes may even get resolved as a result of this fine list! And with much less blood shed than might have otherwise been required! So if you have a land claim you want to make public before the next Atlantis Times comes out, you want to know who that bunch of goons you are otherwise about to pound belongs to, or you're looking for allies in the Stinchar area, just send a message to the UFoS (care of shook@ibg.colorado.edu), and your problems just might get solved! This message brought to you by the Peace in Our Time foundation, by the concerned parents of elves, nomads, plainsmen, and vikings in the Greater Stinchar Metropolitan area. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Is there _anything_ beside league after league of forest south of Sledmere?!? Or am I just wasting my time? ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Nahlim woke up as the first rays of the sun were starting to light up Atlantis-City, as usual. What was rather unusual was the way he felt. He had the worst headache he'd ever had as far as he could remember; even days of intensive study of the magical arts had never left him with the feeling of having his head stuck between hammer and anvil in a dwarven forge. Moreover he had bad sensations of undescribable uneasiness in his belly that seemed to find its origin somewhere between stomach and liver. He could hardly think and dared not move an inch from where he was lying. That's why he was very surprised when he found himself rushing out of his tent hands on his mouth, looking for some kind of bucket and wondering at the marvels of instinctive behaviour. It was now plain to him that he desesperatly needed to puke; as he could find no recipient around he let it all out in the street, vaguely ashamed of what he was doing. What he was regurgitating had the bitter taste of undigested ales mixed with some stronger liquors and other fluids that usually ease up digestion. He had such bad stomach cramps that he was starting to think that he would vomit himself to death, when it suddenly stopped. Nahlim was washed out, he would be useless today. Back on its couch, he started recollecting memories from the night before. He'd been drinking a lot, that was evident, although rather strange for him who was so devoted to his studies. Now he remembered...he'd been working very hard these last few months, learning the mysterious arcanes of wizardry. And finally yesterday, after a full month of research, he got his first spell. Now that was something to celebrate, wasn't it? The problem was now he couldn't remember any of it; it was just as if he'd spent his month money in booze...and his mentor was due soon to visit and check on his progress. Oh, no...!!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Wintermute gave the nod, "Retreat to Kashmar City." The winter had wiped out all chances of getting an early start. The few horses we had were dedicated to ferrying workers into the mountains. Everyone without a horse was trapped in the mountains surrounding the city. Now, with food running low, we have to retreat back into the city. At least we can find work there. The Mithral Swords will have to wait another month... [Atlantis Maps: http:www.cet.co.jp/~anthonyc/homepage.htm] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ After spending hundreds of silverpieces and months of studying, the great Mage Zilistravius learns: There is no second level spell yet. The shock and dismay register on her face immediately. "That few hundred silverpieces would have been much better spent on something useful - like horsedung!" Needless to say, she is rather put out. "Oh well, I might as well learn a useful skill like Herb Lore or something...." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The great mage Petrosilius Zwackelman rises. -- "Conquerers? Here??" He giggles and snips with his fingers. A small fireball appears above his head. -- "Come, my friends, come and look at my fireballs" Suddenly the fireball falls down into Petrosilius's books. As some armed guards ride by, they see him totally confused, running around the black, smoking remaints of his famous library. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ RAIDERS AT (45,6), (West of Stinchar) Not only is the Stinchar area already grossly overpopulated, what with the blocked southern landbridge, but now there is another threat... A Raiding party has landed at 45,6. There are 235 (presumably) combat trained units. Who are they? Where are they from? Are they aware of the many alliances already in the Stinchar area? One thing only is certain, and that is that there must be bloodshed. Woe betide any factions left immediately in or around Stinchar. Even the great city itself must be under threat... You will be kept informed... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ***** NEWBIE STUDY AIDS Inc **** Does it look like you're going to waste 3 turns before your first orders actually work? Most new players waste several turns figuring out how to execute their first commands. Their units don't form, money doesn't get to the new units, and they generally dither. I have written up a clear explanation of everything you need to know to get your first couple sets of orders working. It includes clear examples of orders to form units correctly and get them moving! Plus other hints that could save you from making the same lame mistakes I started out with! Plus, as an added bonus I've made a file of edited questions and answers about rules that have appeared in email. You can have a copy for $40 by emailing rpeters@defenders.org ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Why does the population increased so far near Sledemere and why are there so much wars all around here? Is the south sun so attractive? Since I'm here I see lots of different Unit caming for a promise land, but there is now too much people and War is unavoidable. Considering this, I prefer travel now to the north, where there still a lot of land avaible and wish good luck to all newbie caming to Sledemere and around... Lord of the 99 Rings. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ You many mortals scheme and make your diverse plans. You belong among them, looking towards a future as if it will bring you somr lasting reward. You might obtain some sort of earthly treasure for your diverse efforts, but you will soon find yourself cast free of these petty mortal pastimes. My master will gather you up when your final bell tolls. The Reaper waits for, and misses, no one. Try to run, try to scatter to the four winds. Try to hide in your cities, go to the forests, mountains, and plains. Dig deep into the mines and lairs. Put up your protections, cast your spells. Make a fortress and build many a large army. Make your petty alliances and become friends to all you can.... The reaper has his minions, your time will come soon. Many a mortal may seek to hide from him, but you will all met him. The Seasons don't fear the Reaper, But you should. RIP -- the UNDERTAKER -- ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Sdyka would like to move to an another region. She did not like the snow. But wanting leave Kashmar without horse, she was now stopped with her friends in this hostile mountain. Why the winter was so long nearby ? The first thing that she will do, will be to buy horses. Her companions, high skill people, need to work simply, not to starve. It's so fool to wait for the winter end. They have just to hope that their neighbors who should be not too much aggressive toward them. Maybe a cooperation with The Free Companions should be possible. The first contacts were correct and began to put the bases of a trade. Only future will give an answer to Skyka's anxiety. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Greetings.......... I am a humble trader seeking allies in this harsh lands. My small headquarters lie a bit north of Monzon. Do you wish to join in the creation of an Empire? A great Empire with peace and protection for all, The Commonwealth......... If so mail me at: G21@stud.hibo.no This is not your last chance or anything. But you will have rewards for entering early. One of them is greater influence on matters you find important, like where to claim land and such, I wish this Empire to be widespread and also a information gatherer, so wherever you may be, you are welcome to join the Empire. All you need to do is declare me an ally and drop me a note, and you are a member of the Empire..... I do not wish to be Emperor, merely a little part of the Empire, we will have no Emperor. You, everyone of you, if you are a member, will have be likemen...... I will repeat the adress again: G21@stud.hibo.no PS make the subject Commonwealth. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Freezing from the cold, they trudge slowly forward on horseback to claim the new teritory. Will they survive to winter? only the fire burning in their hearts gives them the will to move on. "The Grateful Dead" ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Mutants wonder what this festival of "Easter" means. They seem to have been held in limbo over this strange winter of the soul. Their cunning and evil masters can barely hold them in check - soon there must be bloodshed! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The cold wind of winter blows through Karthan's meager troops. "Looks like it is time to settle down for the winter", the burly Minotaur grumbles. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Maas followed the old elf out of the tavern and into the street. The inn bore no name, and the street it occupied was narrow and empty. Maas wondered that the inn could do as much business as he had seen inside, then he realized as they walked further that the street adjoined a large square. Entering the square, his senses were suddenly hit by the smell of fish and cooked meat, and the bustle and noise of throngs of people, many human and many not. They crowded around wagons and tables of vendors peddling vegetables and livestock, skins and cloth, trinkets and baubles, and items which Maas could not identify. There were others. Two men were dressed in full armor decorated with a standard that Maas could not identify, and he assumed that they were part of the local garrison. Ragged beggars cowered in corners, pitifully mumbling for handouts. Two others briefly caught his attention as they tossed between them a pair of flaming brands and a pair of heavy looking knives. They wore colorful, gawkish garments, and a third, similarly dressed man shouted invitations to the crowd to see the rest of his troupe. Maas' attention was broken, however, by a tugging sensation at his leg. "Be your guide, sir? Take you where you want to go!". Maas looked down to see a small, dirty child that looked like he needed to eat more often. "Need a room, sir? I know the best places, sir! Or perhaps you are looking for something special. Don't buy it here, sir, I know the best places to buy everything--at the lowest prices too!", the boy proudly stated. "Indeed," replied Maas, "do you know of the Temple of Saint Ozric?" The boy wrinkled his nose and peered skyward for a second, then his eyes widened as he exclaimed, "Ah yes, of course, that's easy. I can take you there for only three silvers," he said, as he reached out his hand. "Begone, little thief!", cried the old elf, "begone, lest I summon the Guard!" Willem had marched ahead while Maas paused to observe the jugglers, but now he was striding back with a fearful intent in his eyes. The child ducked behind Maas and quickly darted into the crowd. "I recommend that you avoid anyone that approaches you here," warned the elf. "There are some folk in this city with good intent, but most have no regard for anyone's fate but their own." "Indeed," thought Maas to himself, "yet even now I follow you with no hint of our destination or purpose". ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Jason y sus Argonautas no tienen mas remedio que posponer su produccion intensiva de bienes debido a la total falta de consideracion por parte de nuestro creador Geoff. Cambiar las reglas sin avisar siempre es malo, pero sobre todo cuando uno ha basado sus ordenes en un work por defecto que ahora no llega a producirse dejando pobres inocentes en poder de la hambruna. Esperamos pronto reanudar nuestras tareas y dar servicio a todo aquel que lo desee. _, | Jason y sus Argonautas (464) >?B | `H H H H --: \\-O-Q-@-Q-O-Q-@-Q-O-Q-@-Q-O-Q-@-/| `\ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ / D ~~~~\~~~\~~~\~~~\~~~\~~~\~~~\ ~~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ~~ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Hurry it up! We have to leave soon!" Eric the fish (called that because he drank like one" came running up to the Crimson Cruiser with a group of 15 elves. "We told you to buy 80 elves, and you come back with 15!?!" bellowed il Capitan. "There was a long line and lots of people ... and I was thirsty." "Never mind, never mind! Quick, get inside, we're pushing off." "Where to?" asked Eric. "Monzon! We must find some dwarves to get some Iron for us, and it's rumored that there are some north of there. Quick, buy some horses so we can get there quicker! I heard that there are none to buy there. Now ... I wonder what the weather is over there? Oh well... Full speed ahead Mr. Cohan!" (il Capitan said all that, if you didn't know) And with that, the Crimson Permanent Assurance Company set off to Monzon for further adventures, leaving the Crimson Craftsmen behind to study Weaponcraft at the TTT. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Myth was downright discouraged. He'd been studying energy for more than six months now, and still had only been able to discover two spells. He had heard rumors of there being over 70 known spells among the 7 colleges of magic, with a quick mental calculation he realized that should have averaged two spells per circle of magic in each college. Yet here he had been studying over six months and all he had so far was a spell of the first and second circles. Maybe his brother was right, maybe he should have studied swordsmanship instead. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Finally", said Cilion as he inspected the workers and troops he had recruited. He had ordered a camp to be made outside Sledmere City and now all the recruits waited before him for orders. All of them had been trained in the previous month and they were now ready to start working. He called the leaders of each unit to him and unscrolled a map of the Sledmere area. "Da Wood Chopperz, march to this forest and get some wood.", Cilion moved his finger along the map instructing the officers. "Da Tunnelerz, you march to here and start mining for iron. The rest of you find work in the city, understood?" "Aye sir", the leaders replied and hurried to their units. "While the men are working and gathering materials, I will inspect the nearby areas. I will leave you in charge over the units while I am away", he told the commander of the Arrerz. "Make sure every unit has enough food and recruit a few combat-ready High Elves to boost our strenght if you can." "Aye sir, I will try my best", the commander replied. Overall the month had been good for the company, Cilion thought. If only I could get the troops out of this thief ridden city as soon as possible. I had only arrived in the city a month ago, and already one of the units had been robbed of silver by some highly trained thief. Even the city guards could not protect the city dwellers from this cuthroat. All those easy targets coming to Sledmere from Atlantis City looking for a better place for recruiting, like me. The thief, or thiefs, will get easy pickings, he thought to himself. Atleast I have managed to get some allies in the area, he thought as he rode out of the city. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ A cold wind blew Lady Jenna Curoon's travel-worn cloak off her shoulders, revealing the well-worn travel gear beneath it. As she stood in the strange market square, gazing about her in some astonishment, an observer would have noticed the wrinkles at the corners of her eyes that come from looking into too many horizons for danger. She touched the hilt of the short sword that hung at her belt, then slowly, moved her hand away from it as an official-looking party of armed men approached, their leader eyeing her suspiciously. The guard detachment, for that must be what it was, moved on after a moment, responding to a yell from another direction. Jenna reflected that certainly this was better than being burned as a traitor and heretic, but how much better? Here she was, in some world she did not know, with a letter of credit from a man she'd never met, and no cle what to do next. The small amulet around her neck really was a God-send she thought, since it allowed her to converse with those about her as if she were a native speaker of their strange, liquid-sounding language. But what to do? Obviously the first thing to do was to get properly equipped. She would draw on her strangely granted sum of credit and gather traveling provisions here. While this place looked likely enough, she'd been around long enough to know that the real world lay beyond one of the six gates that one could leave, but never re-enter. She'd heard rumors of upcoming war and hard times in some places, and precious little about the rest. It would be time to move on soon enough. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Magicians Union of Atlantis School=20 Studying magic in Atlantis City? Save time and money. Our large staff of= experienced mages can teach most foundation magic skills* Fee: 50 silver= per student, discounts for groups. Both beginners and advanced students= catered for. Spells for sale too! Write now for your FREE copy of 'Magic= for Beginners'. d_juckes@postoffice.sandybay.utas.edu.au *classes subject to sufficient enrolments. =20 =20 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Triskelian the Barbarian (pure war faction) gazed incomprehendingly at the tub of foaming liquid. Gingerly, he lifted it to his lips. "- Bleaugh ! Call this a drink ?! " he bellowed. "- No, it's a bath", commented the Yelmalian, drily. - Grendel, Bard of Gondor. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ This is a letter to my little brother. My brother leaved home a few years ago. He wanted to see the south of the world and is never come back to home. Please, brother ! If you are reading these lines, you have to know that mother is waiting for you. She hope that you will come back soon. Every day she prepare your favorite meal. We are all waiting for you. Please give us some news. Your sister, Severina O'Malley. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Hogli leaned back, sighed wearily, and rubbed his aged hands briskly, trying to warm them against the cold north chill that always leaked through the Pavilion, despite the hangings and fire-pits. The strange etchings on the big tome before him seemed to squirm and crawl away as he tried to read them. It would be months, Hogli thought, before he was able to master this new spell. And now it was time for his meeting with Desmorandus. Hogli hoped his patience would hold. In some ways, life had been so much simpler when he had served the cruel and bestial (some said deranged) Lord Vox. Here, the burden of responsibility weighed heavily, the goals were unclear, and his subordinates were uniformly infuriating. Yesterday, that young pup Aster had been in to demonstrate his newfound spell. Sure enough, it had been interesting, and the warlords would no doubt be impressed, and he'd become famous far and wide for teaching it, but it was his damned *attitude* of superiority. As if any of the lower arts could compare to the True Magic. That is, if he ever *found* any. Desmorandus stalked in with barely a nod of encouragement, perching himself on the arm of a comfortable chair, disdaining its cushions. That damned military training, never could get the fellow to relax. "Greetings, ser Desmorandus. What news do you bring of our explorations?" The hawk-faced man picked up a rare indigo jewel and toyed idly with it. "Nothing to concern you overmuch, ser Hogli. An cavern of some interest, discovered to the south. Some minor disciplinary actions here and there. Komarken remains closed under blockade, but the guards are becoming petulant, so I hear." Hogli yawned, an unfortunate but unavoidable gesture after so much research. "Ah, very well, handle it how you see fit, ser Desmorandus. By the way, I haven't seen Sekote and the boys with the hats around here in...well, um, quite a while?" Desmorandus gave a tight, enigmatic smile. "They are off on a... training mission, on my orders. Nothing of importance, and I expect them back soon. Will there be anything else, ser Hogli?" At least he hadn't said "errand," Hogli mused internally. Why, Hogli had been planning spy deployments and troop movements when this Desmorandus fellow was in diapers! But still, he seemed to have the boys' respect. "No, that's all, friend, carry on." Desmorandus rose gracefully, turned away, then turned back and replaced the gem on the desk, as a casual afterthought. "Good day, ser Hogli. We all hope your studies prove...fruitful." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ralf was deep in his studies. He was as happy as he could be. Wow! Just think. Not a month ago, Ralf was a lowly peasant. Now, he was studying magic! Who would have thought? Not his mom. Certainly not his dad, who called him a good for nothing bum. Ralf will show his dad. He'll be the best mage there ever was... Ralf dreamed of being the most powerful, benevolent, kind mage in history. He dreamed of beautiful magic designed to awe his audience. He dreamed of healing magic designed to heal the sick and injured. He dreamed of defensive magic that would keep he and his followers safe. He was going to do it all... A hard wack across his back woke Ralf from his dream. "Get back to studying, you've got work to do!" growled his master. Ralf was patient. He resumed his studies. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The City Council of Monzon announces : ************************************** Warning to all travelers to and from Monzon: GIBOR (77) still keeps his units in Monzon (12,12). Two of them werre caught attempting to steal in Monzon last turn. Keep both eyes on your trade goods and money. 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 MIS Monzon Register, send mail to: Monzon Wood Exchange (289), thayer@eagle.sangamon.edu with subject line MONZON REGISTER ------------------------------------------------------------------------ One year had passed since the beginning. In the depths of winter, the world waited. Forces had staked out control of the gateway cities. Centre Denbigh stared at six pigeons. They had flown back to Atlantis City, confused and disoriented. Despite the information the trader had given him, that they would each follow their instincts to the house of government, despotic or otherwise, of Abernathy, Komarken, Kashmar, Stinchar, Sledemere, and Monzon -- despite his hopes, they had come of naught. For the pigeons were confused. They didn't know who ran these various governments. Denbigh spoke to the Bandwith that had brought his copy of the city paper in hushed tones. Jennifer and Jessica were getting restless. They wanted to be off. But the priest was uncertain. He had heard rumors that travellers had been killed in just attempting to enter some of these places -- rumors which the Bandwith confirmed. The Centre fingered the pages of the real estate section, examining the land clam office postings. Perhaps next month they would be more informative. He read more of the civil strife in Komarken. It worried him. What worried him more than the danger was its facelessness. ABSTAIN, ANL, who were these people. He had no one to reach out to. No one to negotiate with. Between the Atlantean Enquirer and the Unreliable Source, it looked as if Komarken was safe only for yellow journalists. Monzon was more promising. Apparently a lumber town, they had wood pulp to dispose in the publishing of their own directory, available even within the city of Atlantis. The child who visited this city would be well prepared with her personal copy in hand. Even Monzon, however, had its dangers. The Maurarhiannons, although apparently industrious folk, exhibited a xenophobia which must have made business with them difficult. Little was said of Abernathy. From what was said, the city appeared to be a poor but friendly swamp village. Denbigh found their relative silence reassuring. Reports of Kashmar were just as limited. The city having been snowed in entirely, nothing more than weather reports appeared to be getting out. And people wanted to get out, if only because the threat of the Enlightened Ones... Twos? In Sledmere it seemed anarchy, with wild animals, criminals, and something called "deadful" mages, running amock. And Stinchar was to embroiled in a local war to concern itself with the outside world. Another Bandwith arrived, carrying pictures from the Halls of the Snow Leopard Clan. Denbigh opened the envelope, but found nothing. The messenger explained that he couldn't get through. Denbigh looked again at the pigeons in their coup. And then the pair of Bandwiths. "Okay," the Centre began with a sigh, "take these lettres to the Monzon Wood Exchange and the Circle of Blue Mages, also in Monzon. Drop this request for their city directory off while you're at it. And see if you can't find me some more reliable pigeons..." The Bandwiths bowed and departed. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "Thieves!" Mynik screams. "Where are they? I'll string them up and gut them once I find them!" All work in the shop stops abruptly. One of the workmen responds, "What did we lose?" "We didn't lose anything. Someone swiped our horse!" Mynik continues, "The Free Companions were going to give us 50 silver for the old nag. The Council won't like this one bit." Mynik kicks a bucket of water over forcefully. "Kil'tar is heading back to the Council soon. I just hope we still get the training they promised us." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ You scan the Times, then shuffle through it looking for that familiar yellow parchment. It is not there. Your disappointment is acute; you were hoping for some news of the Rose. The look of dis- appointment on your face is replace by one of shock as words start flowing through your mind... Black Rose: Shadows Sing a song of words unspoken A hymn of dreams unshared Of loves not found nor lost Feelings that noone cared. It's a melody this heart knows so well Engulfed within these leaves For love and war are what I seek, Kindred spirits the nourishment I need. Wouldn't you know, That solace would be found In the company of a fellow journeyman From afar, whose mystery this mind confounds? hear it in his few words see it in his step. little emotion his wound allows his soul to wet Like me, the man walks the fine line In the darken shadows, a fine line Separating gods and mortal coil Through space and time. He is my soul-mate by blood. By him I am shown, this Kindred heart, though not his flesh I will be guided through the Great Unknown. Your shock gives way to amusement. Apparently, this man has learned the ways of some magik. This amusement is short in lasting, for you realize that he can touch you more deeply this way... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ It is almost too easy to earn 50 silver pieces each week just by writing something for the Times. Don't you think? ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Cry Havoc, and Let Loose the Dogs of War - (Or how orders are constantly misunderstood.) The Legate picked his way through the debris of the battlefield. It had been pure massacre. Incensed with battle fevour, the enemy had been slaughtered to a in the first few minutes of combat. At the cost of only three men, forty-nine of the enemy had been slaughtered. Already the soldiers were busy plundering the dead, stacking up gigantic heaps of gold. Suddenly, however, the Legate saw something. "Centurion Michael, will you come over here, please?" The centurion approached, obviously feeling pleased with himself. "What are you doing here?" "Well, sir..." "Did I not give you orders to attack another unit? Or strengths was more than sufficient to tackle these." "Yes, sir, but I heard the sound of battle, and since you did not tell me to avoid this one, I came here to give you a hand..." "Didn`t I tell you to Attack?" "Yes, sir, but you didn`t order me to AVOID..." "So you left five of our allied bowmen to take on 50 enemy troops, ALONE?" "Emmm..." ---------- Part Censored, due to excessive Violence ---------- Much later, the Legate sands in his tents, taking stock of the situation together with his officers. "So many factions crammed into such a small area as Stinchar, how then can one avoid killing? And then there are those who dispute the claim, saying that they cannot see any of our units." "Ah, but we have all our allies. And we have cleared up the problems with some of those who would dispute our claim, sir." Centurion Michael whispered, due to his throat being in a somewhat crushed state. "Yes, but what about this Mikey? Who is he? Where is he? I`m going to make mincemeat out of him when I find him. Blasted winter!" "Ah, but sir, it has been to our advantage in the case of the fighting with the Dead Poets." "Yes, but it has prevented us from reinforcing our troops with the two reserve cohorts." "Ah, but sir, the reserve cohorts have arrived!" "What? Where?" Centurion Zack showed it on the map. "Good, and where are our allies?" "Here and here, sir. Within months, we will be able to totally wipe out our enemies, if we haven`t accomplished the main forces of our allies arrive." "We shall see, we shall see. In any case, let`s wrap up operations here, and send a cohort to investigate here." The legate picked up a set of envelopes and distributed them. "Here are your orders, gentlemen. And let there be no mistakes this time. And, by the way, Centurion Zack, get some men to set the following message up again." ********************************************************************************** ** The Following Areas have been claimed by the Republic of Rome! ** ** If you must enter these areas, contact us, or do so at your own ** ** Risk! If you enter without Permission, expect to be slaughtered, ** ** if not now, then when Spring comes. ** ** ** ** Following areas are affected: (50,0), (51,0), (52,0), (53,0) ** ** (50,1), (51,1), (50,2), (51,2), (50,3), (51,3), (52,3), (50,4). ** ** ** ** Warning: It is extremely dangerous to your health to tangle with ** ** forces. ** ********************************************************************************** ANNOUNCING: THE FORUM ROMANUM is now active. The Forum Romanum is the official Atlantis Home Page of the Dragon Legions and the unoficial Home Page of the Republic of Rome. (Whew :) I`ve placed a deal of interesting stuff in it. (I hope.) Please visit, and give me your opinions. Forum Romanum: http//www-i8.auc.dk/~strategy/Atlantis.html Ave, Legate Rayelin. Dragon Legions (93). ------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- Geoff Dunbar <atlantis@rahul.net> Up