Atlantis 2.0: Times 2 From: Geoff Dunbar <atlantis@rahul.net> Date: Mon, 30 Jan 1995 07:42:50 +0000 Atlantis 2.0 Times March, Year 1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Game Master Notes: atlantis@rahul.net for information, problems, or to play. Bugs Fixed This Turn: 1) New units were not being initialized correctly, and sometimes could not move. 2) DECLARE was not working. 3) Characters were being stripped out of descriptions. 4) Problems with long email addresses. Additions This Turn: 1) 3 new spells were added. There are now 6 spells. 2) Wandering monsters now carry some gold, and are sometimes hostile. 3) Healing now has a 50% chance of working; if it fails, the man in question is lost. 4) Race specialties were changed. See the rules for details. I apologize if anyone's plans are affected by these changes. In particular, Riding and Crossbow specializations were eliminated, and Healing and Entertainment were added. Other Notes: Please use the correct subject line when submitting orders and times. It decreases my workload dramatically. See the player instructions for information. I have released a new edition of the rules, dated 1-29-95. Everyone should obtain these rules as soon as possible; they can be ftped from ftp.rahul.net, or, if you ask nicely, I will send them to you. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Melvin opened his eyes and looked around the small room. The dim grey light of early morning trickled in through a small window; just enough to illuminate the narrow bed, small table, and coarse wooden walls and door. "Some bed," Melvin muttered. "More of a glorified cot if you ask me." He frowned. "At least I'm well again -- no thanks to all those potions and poltices, if you ask me." The last month had not been kind to Melvin. He had expected to ride out of Atlantis city to find a place for himself in the world, but instead he fell ill. "It was the blasted heat," mused Melvin. "I've said it once and I'll say it again: these darned elves keep the place hotter than Uncle Uther's forge!" Not much later, Melvin stumped down the stairs, pack in hand. The inkeep had just served his breakfast -- not enough to satisfy a MAN, in Melvin's opinion, especially one just over a debilitating ilness -- when a thin elf slipped through the door. "Abercrombe!" Melvin rumbled, "Do you watch so you can barge in just when I sit down to a meal? Do you sniff the air to detect food being served? Your timing is uncanny!" "My Lord," the elf acknowledged with a nod. He seated himself at Melvin's table, and a small smile slid across his face. "In fact," he said with a roguish grin, "I sniff the air to detect YOU." Abercrombe held his nose in mock disgust. "Well?" demanded Melvin with a glare. "All is prepared for tomorrow's departure," Abercrombe announced, suddenly serious. "I know not how many will follow, but we will ride at first light." "Good. I have seen as much of this city as I care to. It is time." Melvin of the North leader of Melvin's Marauders ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Home, home in the villa where the goblins and trolls cannae see ya; Whar often are seen leaders fearsome and lean With a brain 'bout the size of my ea-ya. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Tristam Sordesire est heureux de vous faire remarquer que le Times est INTERNATIONAL est donc que toutes submissions en n'importe qu'elle Langue y sera bienvenue. Voici donc un nouveau matin d'Atlantis,le monde reste incertain tels les Dieux que semblent s'apercevoir petit a petit que leur monde ideal ne va pas sans faille.Mais pour le grand bonheur de tous,ils y travaillent dur. Il semble que le depart un peu compact des Factions d'Atlantis City etait une rude premiere epreuve,trop de monde pour les maigres recrues proposees et meme une fois fait l'Exode.Il reste trop de monde ensemble au meme endroit.Esperons seulement que la promiscuite ne donnera pas des envies meurtrieres a certains. Rien de beau ne s'annonce,car il faudra que certains meurent sans doute pour laisser leur place aux plus forts. Je crains que le monde ne soit plonge dans un bain de sang avant la fin de cette annee. Les Oracles ne sont pas optimistes,les signes sont trop evidents et nombreux pour vraiment annoncer le printemps que tous attendaient.... Bonne Chance a Tous, Faite de votre mieux,ce ne sera de toute facon sans doute pas assez... Tristam Sordesire. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ PLANNING A JOURNEY? RELOCATING TO A LESS CROWDED REGION? CAN'T STAND TO LEAVE ALL YOUR WORLDLY GOODS BEHIND? YOU SAY YOU NEED A WAGON? Well folks, the The Teamsters, a subsidiary of Maurarhiannon Enterprises have just opened a new showroom in the fair city of Monzon (12,12), just a short jaunt through the Northwest gate of Atlantis City. Orders for new wagons are now being taken for April delivery. Don't be the last one on your block to own one. The price is negotiable [write now for your price quote] and barter is always a possibility. This message brought to you by faction 113, the Maurarhiannon. matthew@clark.net, sole authorized representative. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ THE UNRELIABLE SOURCE Komarken (AP) - A secret meeting was held this month between the leader of the Alliance for Northern Lights (ANL) and the leaders of ABSTAIN. A senior ANL official (wearing a 4 on his badge) was quoted as saying "Our propaganda seems to have worked. Komarken is know controlled by the ANL-ABSTAIN alliance." Sark de Sombreville (111) and Stormwatch (143), leaders of ABSTAIN, were not available for comment. Abernethy (AP) - A new race has been sighted in the city. Believed to be called "kervorkians" or "the merchants of death", the leader of this new race seems to be called Condottiere, chief of la Rosa (134). Atlantis City (AP) - Ripe pickings abound for the thieves of Atlantic City. The high demand for recruits have left large sums of money relatively unguarded. One thief that refused to be give his name, calling himself "Nobody, My factions name is a secret... (33)" said that "Studying stealth was the best investment I have ever made. I invested 50 silver in the skill and will make back 200 this month and probably every month hereafter". Another noted thief, BALITOK THE DEADLY SHADOW (130), agreed, "Easy money. Choose a large group of elves and just take their purses. It's like taking candy from a baby." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Black Company (faction 124, hesiden@stoner.com) is always looking for a few good spells. We will trade information on spells and if your close by we will trade the spells themselves. We are a friendly bunch, if you see one of our scouts or our main body adventurers, say hi and we will buy you a beer and swap stories with you. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ "What do you have to report of our agent in Atlantis, Initiate?" "A month has passed since we sent our brother through the gate. We have heard little since then. As we suspected, the mana level in Atlantis is very low, and it is difficult to communicate with that world. We do know that he has moved to another city, where he will establish a new Circle." "It will be a difficult task." "Yes, but he has found allies." "Excellent. Do you have anything more to report?" "That is all, First Initiate." "Go then. Bring me more news when it is available." ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Editorial by Psmith As I observed in the last issue the immigration policies or rather lack there of have resulted in a further influx of desperate characters to Atlantis city. Last month was bad enough, total chaos in the markets with some rediculous demands beeing placed on the labour pool. This state of affairs must not be allowed to continue, all non citizens must be expelled as soon as possible. The time for action is apon us!! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The plan to found a university has aroused great interest among the population of Atlantis. At the invitation of the Kashmar Alliance, whose aims coincide with the ideals set out in my original expose, I'm moving in the direction of Kashmar to set up the FIRST UNIVERSITY OF ATLANTIS (FUA) in Kashmar at the end of this year. I'm listing provisional rules to govern the operations below: 1. The University will be open to all factions and units. The only condition is peaceful intentions and behaviour in and around the University. 2. The University will consist of Faculties for every skill known to the sentient races, e.g. Faculty of Magic, Faculty of Tactics, Faculty of Mining, etc. 3. To become a member of a faculty, it is necessary to have achieved a skill level of at least three. Admission to the Faculty can only be denied for aggressive behaviour (see point 1). Faculty members are required to either offer teaching or spend time on research. Leave to persue other projects will have to be granted by the Faculty Board, which consists of all members of a faculty. A member leaving without permission looses his/her vote on the Board. 4. The University will be governed by democratic vote of all members of all faculties. 5. The Northern Exploration Society undertakes to provide buildings and further infrastructure as soon as possible. Contributions of other factions are most welcome. 6. The initial location of the University will be Kashmar. Outstations will be supported within the means of the University. The founding of other Universities will be supported as soon as operations are satisfactory. 7. Teaching will be in classes. Each faculty should aim to offer a beginners' class at least twice a year (more on demand), to last for two months, designed to bring the pupils to skill level 2. Advanced classes for level 3 and higher should be tought at least once a year. 8. For every month of teaching, the pupils in a class will together pay a two month's maintenance plus a one-month study fee to the teacher. This will allow a month of study for every month of teaching. Faculty Boards may modify these rates for particular courses. 9. Every unit present must treat all other units as friendly or at least neutral. Every act of aggression will be punished by a joint attack of *all* university members on the offending unit. Suggestions to improve these draft rules are most welcome. H.Humboldt, President of NESA ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Karen 'This..' thought Karen 'is dreadful!' Without a horse she would be stranded in Kashmar until the thaw. What was she to do? In the mountains she could have raised a small band of partisans-the peasants would gladly pay a small tax to support them. But here? She watched as a detatchment of the City Guard marched past, noting their well-burnished swords and immaculate uniform- sure signs of discipline and training. Would they prevent taxation in the city? 'Hmm.. they did not deny me entry so they must consider me freindly..' she reasoned '..we should be able to tax.' She crossed her fingers as she issued orders to her Comrades. Karen, Political Commissar (Atlantis2) Janet, Queen of North Karothea ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Lady had favoured us in her usual strange manner it appeared. Our choice to make a hasty exit from the overcrowded city had brought us to a sparsely occupied land, but it was all barren sand; with the exception of the foul and fetid land in one direction from the city. Strange that a swamp could exist in such close proximity to so much dessert. Ah well, who are we to argue geography with the gods. The allies expect a large influx of immigrants in the coming month, perhaps the lack of lands without any real value will discourage them from intruding here. Hopefully. I will send offerings to the Lady in the hope she will send only those that seek peaceful discourse. A waste of time perhaps, if the memories of other times and incarnations are a true guide to the actions of people in this new world. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Komarken Tribune ------------------------------------------------------------------ The Alliance for the Brutal Subjugation, Torture And Intense Narcisism, ABSTAIN, is proud to announce the cross continuum addition of Lord Vox (his recent quote in the Design list clearly reveal his membership in this alliance, sorry we misplaced the quote or we would have included it here). We are also proud to announce that ABSTAIN has fulfilled our initial intent of landing a controlling group in Komarken. We will now begin the subjugation of the surrounding countryside. "It's good to be the king." "The meek shall inherit the earth - IN 3x6 PLOTS!!!!" ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Harold felt that he was an exceptional fellow, the city guards had chosen him to be a leader. Imagine that, a leader. That does sound impressive. He always wanted to make changes in Atlantis City. Being a leader would give him just that. Harold's hopes where only short lived. The guards selected another to be a leader too. Then another. Then another. How was he going to make a difference here if everyone was going to be a leader? The guards stopped when they has approximately two hundred leaders selected. The guards came back to Harold and gave him a sack containing five thousand pieces of silver. "Use it well," was all the guard said. Well, this was different. Harold above all the others was to have the funds necessary to make some worthwhile changes. Harold's renewed hopes where again quickly dashed as the guards handed the next leader a sack and said, "use it well." The guards continued giving one sack of five thousand gold pieces to each of the chosen leaders. This was not a good sign, two hundred others all with ideas of their own. Harold looked around and saw the market place. For a small amount, he could buy the service of some elves, a wagon, a longbow. Perhaps a longbow pointed at a tender location would convince the other two hundred to quit. Harold took a step toward the market place and noticed that all of the others were doing the same. Pushing and shoving trying to get to the front of the line. The first in line said to the clerk, "Three high elves please." The clerk gave this hopeful follow a nasty look. "There are only a few high elves looking for work and as you can see there are a lot of fellows wanting to hire their services. Only one to a customer." The clerk sold the contract for just one high elf and send the leader away. The leader quickly got back in line, pushing and shoving his way to the front again. Some particularly pushy people were able to get to the front of the line several times. Harold thought the situation was hopeless. He could wait in line for months before he managed to shove his way to the front. He looked around for other ideas. The city had gates leading to the outside. Harold had never considered the possibility that their would be anyplace other than Atlantis City. His curiosity piqued, he went over to a gate. A sign on the gate said, "Destination Sledmere." A new land. Surly Sledmere would be less crowded than Atlantis City. As Harold approached the gate, a guard stepped up to him and said, "Careful young man, once you enter the gate, there will be no return." "I do not wish to return. Atlantis City is too crowded for me. I'm going to see the world. There will be other places for a young leader like myself to make his mark on the world." Harold stepped through the gate and was instantly transported away from Atlantis City. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Begin weak, and meek, Karamon tries to recover from his sudden transport as well as get some equipment. He does get very far however, only being able to get the worst of the lot. His patience not withstanding, he buys horses for all of his Meek men, and together, they plot a plan to leave the city. "But where shall we go?" his Meek men ask their Meek leader... "Wherever Athena leads us..." came the slow reply... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ It's time to join the Etherial Circus! We are pleased to announce to the good people of Atlantis City that Jethro the Juggler has formed a new Circus. He has recruited a number of astounding and amazing acts. Over the next few months you are sure to see these masters of magic, mahem and myrth tripping through the steets of Atlantis City (and elsewhere on this magical world). Any member of the circus would be glad to hear from new members who wish to perform with us, talk to us, or just want to have a good time. Roll up, roll up, and join the show. You can leave a message for us in the "Headless Dragon Inn", next to the North Gate, near the Atlantis city wall. [Contact: m.ofoghlu@ucg.ie] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ***** FLASH ***** Dateline: Abernethy, February, Year 1 Hugh O'Flu reporting for ANN (Atlantis News Network) Magos University has invented a new device that, when looked through, shrinks your enemies! It is round, made of clear glass, and lies in an elaborate golden base at the university's magic laboratory. Abernethy's leading reactionary, Newt Dignbats, is in opposition to the development, claiming that it will turn men into piglets. "That's batwash," according to Prof. McRoot, the device's inventor. McRoot claims that it merely contracts the ether about your foe, preventing him (or her) from harming you, and is thus unable to convert human substance into pork. Rumor has it that skilled operators can use the instrument to see into the future and contact the spirit world, but McRoot denies this. The university is soliciting volunteers to participate in field tests of the device against fighters armed with swords. If this proves successful, they plan to expand the tests to fighters armed with missile weapons. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The toilet door slapped open, bang, creak. The Master of the Embroidered Foliage's breath was vapor in the winter morning, in his huddle in the yard by the toilet with another man. Bang, creak, bang. A short man pulled up his trousers as he walked out. One tall man walked in. "I have no problems," the Master said, "with incredible wealth." Short said, "Too right." Creak, bang, bang. Tall ducked his head stepping out. "Awful good." "Filthy rich," Short said, and Tall said, "Too right." The Master sat on the chair with the hole in its bottom above the pit in the ground. "You will be my partners in ridiculous expense," he said through the door. Tall and short said, "Awful good." Tall said, "I'm Tenpenny Goose. I'm a thin man, but I'm the fattest man in Monzon." The Master grunted like a sow and sighed. He kicked open the toilet door, and smiled. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ************NOTICE*********** To: Lord Viper Cult of the Sith Viper! I should have known you were here--I thought I recognized your foul, fatherly stench as soon as I set foot in this fair world. I do hope that there is still good in you, but be warned: last time we met I was but a student; now I am the master. Do not think you will escape justice. Leif Skalwykker Leader of the Ruble Elliance ------------------------------------------------------------------------ >>>>>>>> In the back of the Jolly Little Boat Inn, a grizzled old salt wipes the foam off his lips and tells his tale <<<<<<<<<<< Twere a dark and stormy night, as i was returning from Stinchar, the Wintery wind howled and stabbed my face with ice. When all at once i heard the cry, the cry that sent icy fingers of fear sliding thru' my veins. Wiping the ice from my eyes, i stopped, wrapped my cloak tighter and peered around... Over there, i saw it then, across the plains a dark and evil shape lumbered thru' the night and huge it were, like a hill, nay like a mountain stalking out of your darkest dreams. Then the clouds were torn apart by the gale and i saw it fully, i clutched my knife tho' it would avail me of no use, it were a SEAMONSTER!, and at its feet, the small hamlet that was my destination. Before the storm once again closed its grip on the moon, i watched in horror as the infernal watery beast swallowed a crofter whole and like some great stinking unclean cat held another down with its monstrous fore-limb. I hid, in blind fear and by my faith it was all i could do. The next morning, even the sky held my moods, grey and foreboding clouds lent a funereal emotion to the day. Cautiously i approached the scene, the smashed buildings, the huge rents in the mud and the pitiful pools and driblets of blood were all that were left of what was the comfortable community i had come to love. In the ruins i stood with tears of mourning and rage coursing down my cheeks, and i vowed, i VOWED that i would not rest till this scourge had been driven from the lands, driven back to the hellish sea's and defeated -Capn' Blood Beard ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Well...the Vanguard is surprised at how many stayed for the relative safety of Atlantis City... Ah, but what can one expect....we shall check back in five turns...how many will still be there... "To be glad to have ridden, to have braved the danger, to have fought the foe honorably...these are their own rewards." Faction 182 Vanguard ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ************************************************************************ * _____ _____ ___ _____ ___ __ * * /\ | | |__ |\ | | | / \ |\ | * * /--\ | | |___ | \| | _|_ \__/ | \| * * --------------------------------------------------- * * * * Magicians Attaining Greater Enlightenment are proud to announce * * that our apprentices are now all fully trained and waiting for * * employment. * * * * In addition to the services of our fully qualified apprentices we * * are able to offer, for one month only, timeshare appartments and * * villas in the beautiful city of Sledmere. * * * * Situated within easy walking distance of the beach, these villas * * and appartments are an ideal place to relax from the stresses and * * strains of leadership. * * * * Send today for our leaflet on the joys of a Sledmere holiday home. * * * * M.A.G.E. the first choice for all your magical * * and vacational needs. * * We can currently be contacted at 92867723@mmu.ac.uk * * * * Disclaimer: Although every effort is made to ensure that the * * information contained in this advertisment is * * accurate, it is not possible to be entirely certain * * about the distance of Sledmere from the sea, nor its * * physical attractiveness. * * M.A.G.E. have never left Atlantis City, therefore their * * geographical knowledge is limited. This in no way * * reflects upon their considerable magical experience. * * * ************************************************************************ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ANNOUNCING: THE CARTOGRAPHER'S 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 Atlantis 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 17 actual contributing members strong, as of when this ad was placed (Saturday, 1/27/95), with more coming in every day. We currently have economic data on all six cities radiating from Altantis, and 2 other regions, plus mapping data on all their neighboring regions. Cartographer's Consortium also realizes that there may be others of you out there considering setting up similar enterprises, posting to this very same issue of the Times. Well, "Cooperation" is our middle name at Cartographer's "Cooperation" Consortium. We want to pool our efforts with you. We realize that the more sources of information there are in such endeavors, the more information results. Get in touch, and we'll try to be in touch if you've just run your advertisement in the TIMES. Due to inundating mail flows, however, please write us if you get the chance. Write for info now. The CCC can currently be reached at "tim.hruby@his.com". Please include the prefix "CCC:" in your subject line. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Dateline: February, 2301 Place: Atlantis City CARTOON drawn by Vivaldi (Editor's note: this is a mainly visual gag, which is why it was submitted as a cartoon, drawn by the infamous High Elf satirist known as "Vivaldi". This elf's pseudonym has offered him or her a small measure of protection from prejudicial "prosecution" by the Assassins' Guild.) Description: Single panel, large format. Picture shows six leaders standing in a circle, each holding part of the grisly remains of a recently dismembered high elf (ie. an arm, a leg, etc). Each leader has a puzzled look on its face. Caption: Why doesn't my new recruit move when I tell him to? (Editor's note: Like we said, mainly visual, but we felt we owed it to our readers to show the state-of-the-art in viewing the Atlantean world with a dash of wry elvish humor. Our regular travel supplement will resume next month, just as soon as our intrepid travel reporter, Maxim Verr, reports back.) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ATLANTIS CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE: 1 slightly used war horse. Conditioned and trained for battle. Has brought owner much glory and success. Sadly must sell. Only missing one leg. LOST: 1 pet shih-tzu basilisk. Daughter heartbroken. Reward offered. *WARNING* do not look into eyes. PERSONAL: Single Elf Female seeks Male companion for walks on beach, candlelit dinners, and fencing practice. Sense of humor a must. FOR SALE: High quality armor and shields, made from newly discovered magic ore known as plastic. Only available from Zach's Bargain armoury, send $4.00 for a free catalog! PERSONAL: To Eldric the unlucky: get well soon! Sorry about your accident. Next time, don't go dragon hunting with that cheap mail-order armor! -Karana Brought to you by Rognuldr and the Knights of Ni. (laufer@cooper.edu) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------ It is now Febuary of year 1 and Os Banderantes (The Flagbearers) Are sending out scouts from Atlantis City. As soon as he gets caught up in his studies their leader Carioca will decide where to move the main body. Once they have settled into a secure area they will begin teaching the natives the arts of civilization. -Carioca, O Grande Mestre dos Banderantes ------------------------------------------------------------------------ OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO o o O SHOULD ENTERTAINMENT BE A SERIOUS MATTER ? O o o OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO Last month we read Barnacle Turing offering membership in the Atlantis Guild of Professional Entertainers (AGPE) - of which he incidentaly is the president -; he wrote: "the demand for our services is so great that we can all prosper, so long as we don't step on each other's toes". I am a clown. Stepping on others' toes just is my bread and butter (the public loves that). I'm willing to prosper as mush as Barnacle, but please let me step on toes or walk on hands (I'm an acrobat too). Entertainment can't indulge in serious matters like registring and listing and planning and choosing sad sad names such as AGPE. It must be punning, cunning, stunning. NOT serious. Atlantis is still young, and has got no proverbs yet. So I propose number 1: Buffoons loose ? Fate will choose ! So I'm a poet too. I can offer other such proverbs to anyone paying $50. I can do it in French too, for $100. Easier for me, but better quality for you. - Acrobatty the Rigolo, and the Jokomicalaughunny Buffoons (229) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ In message <2192@majinga.demon.co.uk> Richard@majinga.demon.co.uk (Richard Burke) writes: > ADVERTISEMENT > > HEARYE HEARYE > If you in the Komarken area. > Pop in to Mr O Azzoom's traveling gentalmans club. > Our HighElf girls (and boys if such is your pleasure) are > ready and willing to service all your most wanton and lacivious > desires. Remember our motto. > FOR BAGS OF FUN > JUST COME > > So come on down and bring your > frends/relations/servents/employees/livestock/pets etc > ------------------------------------------------------------------- > Mr Azzoom garantees satisfaction and discresion. > All tastes caterd for. > ------------------------------------------------------------------- *************************************************************************** ADVERTISMENT Mr Azzoom's Whore House Komarken branch Mr Azzoom regrets to announce a delay in the opening of his house of exotic delights. Due to unfortunate circumstances beond his controll Mr Azzoom's opening has been delayed and will not open for a further two months. Mr Azzoom regrets any frustration or inconveniunce this has produced. FOR BAGS OF FUN JUST COME COME AND COME **************************************************************************** ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Magma took a look around. Wind coming through the looming spires ripped through his hair and stung his eyes but still he could see the glory about him. Tons upon tons of rock. Here, he thought, would be the Gathering place. They would build the Universities of magic and other skills and by doing this learn what they are worth to one another, a bond he hoped would endure forever. His thin frame was not effected by the winds, he was far beyond such things. Steping up to a higher rock he carefully surveyed the horizon. There, cresting a hill was a group of men huddled in warm furs. Chuckling Magma jumped from the rock and carefully floated down, the Gathering had begun! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Announcing the Atlantis Guild of Professional Entertainers! Greetings to my fellow professional entertainers! Allow me to introduce myself! I am Barnacle Turing, owner and artistic director of the Turing Theatrical Company (and Professional Dishwashers), and president of the Atlantis Guild of Professional Entertainers (AGPE)! I would like to invite you to share with you the benefits of membership in the AGPE! The AGPE is a loose confederation of entertainers (not an alliance) whose purpose is to foster cooperation among the professional entertainers of Atlantis. We believe that the desire, nay, the demand! for our services is so great that we can all prosper, so long as we don't step on each other's toes! By joining with us, each of your entertainment units will be entered into the Registry of Professional Entertainers, which lists the name of each unit, its faction, the number of its performers, and its level of skill. By sending us monthly updates of your plans (what region each of your units will be plying your trade in), we can help you coordinate with each other and maximize your profits! You can help us by sending us profiles of each of your entertainment units, and by sharing with us information on the demand for entertainment in various cities and regions, as well as safety concerns! Services which we hope to offer in the future include: - help with arranging tours! - clearinghouse for entertainment requests from governments and private parties! - grants! yes, *free* silver! (donations also accepted) Best of all, membership this year is guaranteed to be dues-free! That's right, you can sample our services with absolutely NO investment on your part! For more information, please write to the AGPE, c/o brent.johnson@ab.com. Yours most sincerely, Barnacle Turing (faction 32) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ We had some excellent economic analyses of production, teaching, etc. in the old Atlantis Times. Would any of our Atlantean academics wish to start up a column considering the new Atlantis system, as it stands now? I am sure at least as many would appreciate it as would be annoyed by it! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Beware of strange animals. There are some rumours of centaurs being found by an intrepid explorer of Atlantis. Also there are some reports of enourmous large mountains round Kashmar. With a rich supply of iron, swords and platemails being sold at the local marketplace. Whispers in the Dark. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Note: This will not be a regular feature of the Atlantis Times. For more information regarding subscriptions, see the end of this entry.) ULRIC'S GUIDE to... KOMARKEN The beautiful city of Komarken is best visited during the winter months. Located in the Galloway region of Atlantis, with the ocean to the west and the tundra to the east, the winter temperatures are much more moderate than might be supposed. While such moderate temperatures could be considered a draw all by themselves, the main winter attraction of Komarken is definitely its inhabitants. A nomadic people, the Komarkens settle together in one area only during the winter season. It is at this time that their markets can be found offering a variety of raw materials (iron, furs, fish and herbs), as well as an abundance of their major export - Komarken three edged razor-swords. While prices are much steeper than the inhabitants of Atlantis City are used to paying, they will find that there is no shortage of these goods. A.C. residents will also be pleased to discover that there is a demand for such items as wood and longbows, as well as wagons and the horses to pull them. The wealthy A.C. resident may even find that s/he is able to turn a profit, buying low and selling high in this coastal village. As I stated above, the Komarkens and their market are really the biggest draw to visiting Komarken in the winter. While there are several 3 star restaurants, this traveler found nothing that deserved four or more stars. I would highly recommend "Gundar's Reindeer Gut BBQ" or any of the many locations of "Fish-Lamprey-Eel-Toad-Mud" for a real authentic Komarken meal. Don't let the names through you, as these are direct translations of some unpronouncable Komarken words. Trust me, the food is delicious. While, as common among nomadic peoples, the residents are friendly, the markets are crowded and fun, and the food is delicious, the night life in Komarken is rather slow. Were it not for the several all-night establishments which feature the "Dance of the Seven Veils" (which, I must add, was quite contrived, and seemed to be nothing more than an excuse to oggle the half naked (and, at times, fully naked) bodies of teenage Komarken girls), or the Komarken Club, most places in Komarken close at sunset. The Komarken Club almost makes up for this if a traveller is only in town a few days, but after that, watching the fabulous sword play of Komarken men begins to lose its excitement. The Friday night fights to the death, however, seem to hold the attention of most Komarkens week after week. (It is rumored that there is a large gambling enterprise that has sprung up around these fights, but such illegal activities are most assuredly not meant to be advertised or recommended in this guide.) Perhaps the lack of many places for amusement is part of what has created such a strong demand for entertainment in the city of Komarken. Perhaps the desire of so many young nomads (even those whom the city has designated as "leaders") to pledge themselves to roving gangs (or "factions") of adventurers is a direct result of this lack of nightlife. Then again, perhaps the need for adventure just runs in the nomadic blood of this colorful people. For more information on how to become a regular subscriber to the Ulric Guide, ask us at tulrich@unlinfo.unl.edu. Ask for faction 40. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Journal Entry #1 Mordru has really done it this time. Flight ring gone. Powers gone. And the rest of the Legion nowhere to be found. Worse yet, I don't know what planet I am on, but it does not look like anywhere in the UP. I am going to find my friends. I am going to get my powers back. I am going to get off this stinking rock. Until then, I am going to have to find allies. People interested in knowledge and development. Together we will bring order to the wilderness. Long live the Legion! Rokk Krinn ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Lurking deep in the freezing wastelands, The Fon looks out over his new domain. "Ahh, plenty of peasants to plunder and pillage. Things will be good here." - Gribble Elfslayer, scribe and historian of the Mutant faction. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Corwyn returned from the forgeworks tired but satisfied. "Well, 'tis indeed a different world this Atlantis is, but honest sweat works as well here as ever it did back...wherever it was." Somehow, the memory of his past existance was becoming more and more vague and dreamlike. Perhaps it had in fact _been_ a dream - for the here-and-now was certainly real, and much more exciting than any dreamworld could ever be! This would be his last day at this particular forge. He'd learned much -- but Atlantis City was simply too crowded. Too many folk peering at streetsigns, the masters all jammed with new students, able-bodied folk practically snatched off the streets to go gallivanting off to who-knew-where, and blusterblusterbluster as far as the ear could hear. His contacts in Monzon painted a rosy picture; time to load up and get gone! After all, there was a new Mercantile Concern to start up; in time, perhaps it would blossom into a Mercantile Conglomerate, or even (did he dare dream so high?) a Mercantile EMPIRE! But that was for the far, far future indeed - big dreams for someone who only barely qualified as an apprentice! "But still, ye must have dreams beyond yer reach - how else to know what yer capable of? And larger things have come from smaller starts, so they have." It was with happy thoughts (and grandiose ones) that Corwyn began to outfit the horses. His newfound "friends" watched for trouble, their purple-irised eyes hidden behind their oh-so-suave Ray-Bans. "Bet those other three wish _they'd_ signed on wi' me now! I hear the one they went with has 'em learning which end of a shovel t'hold, and which end goes inta th' muck. Serves 'em right, after drinkin' my beer and all!" Cor muttered. "Too many offers here - a man can't tell who's with 'im until the dawn breaks an' he counts the heads still on t'table. Can't run a business that way, no indeed. Time t'move _on_, so tis. HOY, Lexington, Vegas! It's away we are! There're some new recruits to pick up (howe'er many actually show, that is) and some business associates to sign on, and then it's off to Monzon. Hope ye've dressed warmly, boyos! GEEE-YAP!" And with that, the first caravan of Monzon Mining and Manufacturing jolted into motion, and on its way to the Monzon Gate of Atlantis City. Only time would tell whether it rode into the blazing spotlight of history -- or only its dustbin... ===== Attention to All Parties Interested in Contacting Monzon Mining and Manufacturing: The Endeavour has Begun! But in the Wide World of Atlantis, there is Always Room for more Friends and Higher Profits! Quality Goods and Services, at Reasonable Prices is our Goal; any who feel likewise are encouraged to travel to the Fair City of Monzon, and speak there with Corwyn Tinker, Faction 54, late of this Domicile. If Monzon is too far, then the incantation "ggainey@io.com" will deliver Messages to said Tinker. Fare well, and Fair Trading! -- Note on the door of Corwyn Tinker's lodgings in Atlantis City ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The wind-driven snow felt like ice against his face. It was cold, very cold. Whose idea was it to go north, anyway? Karak couldn't remember. He and his new-found allies hoped to travel quickly, and even went so far as to purchase horses for the journey. They were expensive, but considered well worth it. The problem was the weather. No one asked for it's cooperation. No one considered the effect it would have. Now they all were paying for it. The journey was supposed to take only one month, but none could guess how long it would take now, or whether any of them would survive it. Karak huddled close to what passed for a campfire in this place, with his cloak wrapped tightly around him, and shivered. He had never known such cold before. It seemed to chill his very bones. Did the others suffer as much as he? All the faces were hidden in blankets, or were looking down at nothing. Karak did not know what they were thinking, but the occasional shudder let him know that at least some of them were as cold and miserable as he was. Misery loves company, he thought. At least he wasn't suffering alone. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Denbigh, priest of the Purple Snowflake, servant to his otherWorldly creator, Centre to the `Aitches 'for the Eyes, Friend to The Eggshell, and being of The Gathering, born to the world of Atlantis one month past, continues his charge of recruitment for the three Pillars. The chaos brough upon all who are newly new to this plane -- the masses arriving undirected and disoriented while native peoples suffer at the hands of economic servitude, yeah, slavery it has not been unheard; the weathers providing onslaught both frigid and arid within even the same days, so that one's season may be but only a product of one's time of wakefullness -- has brought with it setbacks, yet even in these there is blessing. The faith shall be housed in monastery and university, to be constructed within the fore ordained place of stopping of The Gathering. And yeah, The Eggshell shall be among the first for whom study shall find itself there, should he find such a place to be of his nature. So it shall be, should it be. And so it is that in aid of this direction, `Aitches 'for the Eyes shall continue to seek the Friendship of those who would know Good in aid to such as our most spiritual cause in this such temporal world. So says Centre Denbigh. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The weary traveler arrived at the Komarken Arms well past midnight. The sleepy desk clerk looked up from his copy of the Times, "Would you care for a room, Sir?" "Oh course, and see that my mount is well taken care of.", the traveler replied. "And what name shall I register you as?" "John Doe, of Atlantis City" "Welcome to the Komarken Arms, and you have a message." The traveler kept his composure and retired to the bar. "Who knew, I was going to Komarken?", he wondered. He himself didn't even realize that his movement NE would bring him to Komarken. He stared at the envelope. It was from the ANL, directed to anyone who had arrived from Atlantis City. "Indeed, they are presumptuous". 'John Doe' laughed as he threw it unread into the fire. Tomorrow he would ride out of this place. "Let the ANL's decide who would buy and sell in Komarken, I will live free. They can buy all the $68 Nomads and $240 swords they want. There are a lot of ways to ride out of here, if they pursue me, they will be in for a nasty surprise. I will decide for myself what I will buy and sell, and to who." Will the weary traveler escape from Komarken? Continued next week. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CALL FOR ACTION! Consolidated Trading and Distribution Announces Formation of a Black List. Consolidated Trading and Distribution would like to announce the creation of a trading black list. All traders must rely on the honesty of their trading partners with the world as it is, and we having to rely upon proxies of other factions to gain the silver for our hard-won goods. We wish to create an institution such that real sanctions could be levied against any faction that fails to trade in good faith. This would be in the form of a black list.. No trader would do business with a faction on the Black list. Note that the list would also apply to traders themselves. If a faction was cheated by a trader, the trader would go on the Black List. It is important that we maintain the integrity of trade in a world where we have no immediate mechanism of enforcing proper trading ettiquette. Therefore, we must (and particularly the traders must) all band together to make outcasts of any who would cheat us. CT&D will maintain a copy of the Black List, available upon request. We will also accept complaints to be put on the Black List. Thank you. Consolidated Trading and Distribution c/o bartlett@dorsai.org faction 78 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ To the Editor Atlantis Times Dear Sir I wish to protest your obfuscationary accounting practises. You prominently advertise that any contribution accepted for publication the Times will earn for its author the not insubstantial pecuniary reward of $50. Yet nowhere in my latest statement (er, turn report?) do I find reference to this amount. It was only by diligent and earnest application of the arcane science of "Arithmetick" that I was able to determine that the sum had indeed been credited to my faction's unclaimed account. This process surely cost me more in burnt candles than was earned in the first place. However, my concern is not purely selfish (although my candle bill was admittedly rather alarming): no, it is my fellow citizens for whom I fear. Your shoddy business methods, sir, leave you open to the unwanted attentions of disreputable scoundrels and miscreants who are all too quick, alas, to take advantage of such carelessness for their own nefarious ends. I refer, sir, to Fraudsters and Sharpsters and those of like ilk who revel in dishonesty and sharp practise and will take advantage of your poor book keeping. Take heed! Atlantis does not need this sort and it is doubly regrettable that your august publication is in effect encouraging criminality! I heartily recommend that you mend your ways and institute a thorough audit of your accounts at the earliest occasion. Yours in Warning A Concerned Citizen of Atlantis ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Adventures of Elmo Prologue: Elmo has just been pulled (again) into a new world with nothing but his clothing and a big wad of cash to carry him through the adventures that lie ahead. If only he knew what was in store for him in this land of excitement they call.... ATLANTIS! Chapter 1 ========= What a slime-infested rat-hole of a city! Wagonloads of idiots wandering around, drooling at the horses, yelling about "Alliance this" and "Glory that". I can't think the last time I slept through the night. Well, a horse isn't a bad idea, I suppose... -*+*- I am sick and tired of all these damn elves capering about. I gotta get out of here! Can't stand elves... Look at that crowd of morons scratching their heads around the signpost. And it doesn't even have any distances on it. Horrible place... Oh well, what the hell -- eeny, meeny, miney, moe... Chapter 2 ========= Peculiar road, this... Nag isn't leaving any tracks... Whatever. Hey, you guys! HEY! Turn around!! Hmm, they don't seem to hear me. Creepy. Drinking myself into a stupor sounds damn good right about now... -*+*- I am _so_ tired... Even Nag can't keep her head up. Wait a sec -- are those walls? Finally! Hey, open up! Let me in! I'm sure it is a busy night, but excuse me if I don't feel like chatting. Where the hell's the nearest inn? Do they have ale? Wenches? All right, then, outta my way... Jeez, guards are the grumpiest bunch. -*+*- Finally, a decent night's sleep. OK, a slab of bread and some ale, and then let's see what "Sledmere" has to offer... Girl! Bring me your finest swill! Do I have the money?? Hah! ... Not bad... Excuse me, but what did you just say? February? I was on that road for a _month_?!? No wonder I was beat. Oh well, whatever. Out into the bright (ugh) day... -*+*- Wow, what a difference! Sledmere! City of a thousand opportunities! Fresh, moist air, surrounded by forest, shaded by mountains. Decent wages, weapons available, sales potential... Wait, what are those guys doing? Oh no, they're _capering_... I gotta get out of here... [To be continued.] -- Geoff Dunbar <atlantis@rahul.net> Up