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+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
| The Olympia Times times@olympia.rt.com |
| May 15, 1992 v4n1 |
| |
| Turn 24 126 Players "This is a PLAYTEST" |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
Turn 25 orders due: Friday, May 22, 1992
*** No Olympia May 29 ***
Turn 26 orders due: Friday, June 5, 1992
Orders are due 6:00pm EDT, 22:00 GMT.
Questions, comments, bug reports, to play: olympia@rt.com
* * *
A Note from your GM
* * *
The flow of design suggestions, bug reports, and opinions from the
players in private email and on rec.games.pbm has been phenomenal.
I thank you all for your help!
A few players, however, from time to time seem to forget that
this is a playtest. We are trying to make a really swell game
here, and this means that I am constantly changing things to
see if new ideas work better than old ones. I'm sorry if your
turn is ruined in the process, but so things must be.
If you got flustered by the entertainment changes, do yourself a favor
and SWEAR 0 now. Tuning the amount of gold generated by a skill use
is peanuts compared to some of the changes I'm considering.
-- Rich Skrenta
* * *
Travel Routes Redesigned
------------------------
o Routes are no longer entities, so they are no longer
identified by four digit numbers.
o Stacking with routes is no longer possible. A new mechanism,
to be implemented, will allow control of a region's borders.
o The syntax of the MOVE command has changed:
MOVE direction|province [dir|province . . . ]
Move in the indicated compass point direction, or
towards the specified province. Abbreviations for
compass points are allowed: N, S, E, W, NW, NE, SW, SE.
A list of directions to try may be given:
move n ne nw e w
The first route found which exists will be tried.
o Routes [1001] and [1070] will be removed.
Lore Skill Considered Harmful
-----------------------------
The LORE command and the Lore research skill will be removed.
Beware Signals
--------------
Many players were bitten last turn by creative attempts to use WAIT SIGNAL.
Like the infamous GOTO statement in programs, signals can turn otherwise
neat orders into a tangled mess. Only use signals when one of the other
waits won't suffice. If you do use wait signal, pay very careful attention
to timing to avoid grief.
Combat Changes
--------------
Attack takes a style option, i.e.:
attack target [ kill | capture | booty ]
Giving no style argument is equivalent to style kill.
Attacking to kill attempts to kill the target and its stack.
Attacking to capture attempts to capture instead of kill, and
attacking for booty means that one is not really interested in
harming, but is more interested in treasure (a la highwaymen of the
18th and 19th centuries).
Because one has to pull one's punches when capturing, it is harder to
capture a unit than to kill it. Attacking for booty means that the
attacker will not pursue a unit that chooses to flee, but will
stop and pick up whatever booty it could collect. Units fleeing
in terror tend to leave some valuables behind.
Combat takes place after all zero-time commands are processed,
but before the "evening" phase. Thus, an attack will be resolved
after all stacking operations are complete, but before a unit
can leave a province.
Something's Funny with Skills
-----------------------------
Instead of the 1-2-3 progression of skill uses, I'm considering
having a separate skill for each of the things-one-can-do.
For instance, instead of USE 110 1, USE 110 2, etc. there'd be
a top level skill, 110, and sub-skills which you'd automatically
pick up after reaching certain levels of the top skill. The sub-skills
could be studied to gain proficiency with the particular task.
For example:
107 Shipbuilding, level 2
9107 Build small boats, level 0
9215 Repair ship, level 1
This system has a couple of nice features:
o It's flexible and extensible. Skill uses don't have
to adhere to a rigid 1-10 progression. There can even
be research past the "top level":
9xxx Further shipbuilding research
o You can specialize in the areas you're interested in.
o It has a nice feel. The collection of things-one-can-do
large, and who knows what new task research will uncover.
Perhaps there's some things that can't be learned through
study alone...
o I can get rid of levels on lore sheets. No more wondering
if level 4 was the last sheet Rich wrote on a topic. One
entity, one lore sheet would be much cleaner.
I'll explore this system over the next few turns. Comments on the
system are welcome. Questions about how these changes affect your
position are not. Send no whiney mail saying that I've ruined your
life again! I don't want to hear it, and Graendak is sharpening his
claws on a rock in the far north. He really is.
In keeping with my tradition of keeping my mouth open when it should
probably be shut, I am offering, for an unlimited time, for the low,
low price of "free", a set of maps and lore. Just send me a note and
I'll send it out.
-- Oleg the Loudmouth
The Riddlecorner!
=================
The answer to last weeks riddle:
Two legs sat upon three legs with one leg in his lap.
In comes four legs, grabs one leg, and runs off with him.
Up jumps two legs, grabs up three legs, throws it after four legs,
and makes him bring back one leg.
What are all the legs about?
(This one's not too hard)
is: One Leg = A leg of mutton
Two Legs = A person
Three Legs = A stool
Four Legs = A dog
Now this weeks riddle (maybe the last) is:
It comes in on little cat's feet,
Is neither sour, nor sweet.
Hovers in the air,
And then is not there.
The answer in the next edition of the glorious, free ditributed OLYMPIA TIMES!
I once again saw a couple of riddles in the times this week again and I wonder
if I should quit this column, since flooding the times with riddles will kinda
make it not fun anymore. So I decided to leave it up to the readers of the times
to decide wether I should quit or not. You can mail me at this address (hereby
also reveiling my true identity) since I wouldn't want the times to have to
cope with this: cspas161@sus.eur.nl, and that's in holland.
=>The riddler
ENEMIES OF THE FORCES OF LAW (v. 4)
Beware these killers. A threat to society they are. Watch thy backs.
The peaceful people of this world must unite if we are to survive.
Number of Last place
Name innocents slaughtered of massacre
==============================================================================
The Black Company [1301] 15 Chardia [354]
(aka. Castle Guard)
John Smith [823] 5 Camaris [355]
Dr. Pain [814] 6 West Habyn [353]
Seldon the Avatar [809] 5 Ilion [357]
Zyzak [513] at least 11 Hothras [214]
(killed by Kaspar)
A WORD OF CAUTION: There are others among thee who have also killed.
These are but known criminals.
A WORD TO THE UNDERWORLD: Is this all that thou canst do? Surely more
among thee can do better, and make thyselves known on this
glorious list. A welcome to Seldon the Avatar, our newest
killer of non-killers.
---- Pactra, the month of Dark night ----
"I hear minions of the murderer Zyzak have entered our prosperous
town..."
"So FINALLY we have found them. Come! There is not a moment to
lose! --- Call together our people!"
"Fellow citizens of Olympia, we know many of ye are but poor farmers,
but when a threat is in our midst, we cannot sit idly by. They are heavily
armed, and today, some of us may lose our lives... but NOT our honor! Let
us avenge those who have died by his hand! COME!"
With that, the norsemen picked up what weapons they had and went
in search of Zyzak's Roughnecks...
"Corningware china? You oaf! I said plate armor, not plates!
Now return these for a refund and get the armor this time." And with
that Tsagem's humble servant strode off to make amends for his master.
"We're just starting out here men, so be prepared for anything.
I will allow minor errors in the carrying out of my orders, but must
stress the fact that we must do all possible to create a working
system here."
Tsagem then set about to ponder what mangerial decisions should
be forthcoming....
Sent by moakler@remus.rutgers.edu (bam!) to the Warriors' Guild:
-------------------
Guildmaster Evor,
Since guild elections are coming soon, I would like to know
what you have done with the guild funds over the past year. It seems
that you have been sinking the money into the guild towers in the old
world, but now that Zyzak is dead, those realms should be relatively
peaceful. On the other hand, Dr. Pain continues his designs of
expansion and might possibly soon reach the region where the Warriors
Tower is located (East Urvil). I think it would be appropriate to
either strenghten the tower or use guild funds to recruit some sort of
militia to defend the tower. If you give any ideas concerning the new
world branch of the guild, then perhaps it its time to elect a
guildmaster who will.
Sincerely,
Briareos (815)
-------------------
Hmmm... very interesting, perhaps this Briareros has the best interests of
the Guild in mind. Perhaps, perhaps... ah, more mail from this
moakler@remus.rutgers.edu (bam!), perhaps more info on his wishes to be
Guildmaster, let us see:
-------------------
Sent by moakler@remus.rutgers.edu (bam!) to the (??) Guild of Thieves:
Guildmaster D'arc Shadwoborn,
Since guild elections are coming soon, I would like to know
what you have done with the guild funds over the past year. It seems
that you have been sinking the money into the guild towers in the old
world, but now that Zyzak is dead, those realms should be relatively
peaceful. On the other hand, Dr. Pain continues his designs of
expansion and might possibly soon reach the region where the Thieves
Tower is located (Caburh). I think it would be appropriate to
either strenghten the tower or use guild funds to recruit some sort of
militia to defend the tower. If you give any ideas concerning the new
world branch of the guild, then perhaps it its time to elect a
guildmaster who will.
Sincerely,
Guges (1333)
-------------------
Hum. Ah... hum. *confusion* Oh wait, I see...
do while ! eof(GUILDS) {
? "Guildmaster " + GUILDS.MASTER
?
? " Since guild elections are coming soon, I would like to know"
? "what you have done with the guild funds over the past year. It seems"
? "that you have been sinking the money into the guild towers in the old"
? "world, but now that Zyzak is dead, those realms should be relatively"
? "peaceful. On the other hand, Dr. Pain continues his designs of"
? "expansion and might possibly soon reach the region where the " + ;
GUILDS.TOWER
? "is located (" + GUILDS.CITY + "). I think it would be appropriate to"
? "either strenghten the tower or use guild funds to recruit some sort of"
? "militia to defend the tower. If you give any ideas concerning the new"
? "world branch of the guild, then perhaps it its time to elect a"
? "guildmaster who will."
?
? " Sincerely,"
?
? " " + GUILDS.MEMBER
do mail_letter with GUILD.EMAIL
enddo
Golly. And he seemed so sincere, too.
NOT.
Strange Birds Sighted in North; Aerial Attacks Feared!
Dorenth (OPI) -- Flights of giant birds have been spotted in Dorenth
and surrounding provinces. "Scared the bejeezus out of me!" said one
D'arc Shadowborn, when queried by this reporter. "Big honkers, two of
'em, birds of death or something, came through. Flew on into
Drucartan. I hope they stay there!"
This sighting coincides with reports from the northern mountain
provinces of a new form of winged death. Hordes of peasants have fled
the mountainous regions of Baraxes and Celenth, claiming that large
birds have descended from the peaks to feed on any animal smaller than
an oliphaunt.
A call has gone out across all of Olympia to rally forces to oppose
these birds. The citizens of the central plains are waiting in
trepidation to see which will arrive first: death from the sky or
reenforcements from Drassa.
Kotus was weary from the long days he had spent on the road,
searching out new lands and adventures. The hamlet he had passed,
Dezarne it was called, had been merely a collection of hovels, too
filthy to even spend the night. If he marched at double time, he
might make it to Atnos before the inns closed...
A figure materialized beside him. He had a strangely inhuman
aura about him and his elfin features had a mischievous cast to them.
This must be one of the legendary wee folk, a fairy! For some reason,
he has munching on a carrot...
"Eh, What's up, Doc?"
"Begone. For nothing can distract me from reaching Atnos."
"Suit yourself, Doc."
!ZZAPP!
Later that night, long after all the inns had closed, Kotus was still
on the road to Atnos. Although he pumped his legs as fast as he could,
his speed was no little more than a crawl, a result of the spell the
fairy had cast on him. He thought furiously to himself...
"Guns! Faiwy twaps! I'll get that wascally faiwy if it's the wast
thing I ever do!"
O perilous, with streets of blood
Where men doth go insane
A monument to treachery
It's architect is Pain
O Chardia! O Chardia!
Pain set his sights on thee
With hostile will, his brigands kill
But someday you'll be free.
(To the tune of America_the_Beautiful)
The black and white banner -- Per pale Argent and Sable an Owl
displayed counterchanged. It blew wildly in the stiff winter breeze
blowing across the plains outside of Pesbrand.
Varian looked up from the tome on his desk. He rubbed the sleep
from his eyes and looked over towards the entrance to his tent.
"He leads the army deep into hostile territory and there releases
the trigger." He repeated the words he had just read, again in his
mind as he opened the flap to the tent. He looked Southwest, towards
Chardia and wondered. "Perhaps," he said.
"Are ya finally ready ta leave, sir?" one of his soldier, sitting
by a fire nearby, asked.
"Yes, we should make Ilion by the 20th."
"But, sir, 'tis the 19th already!" the soldier said, standing.
Varian paused for a moment, stunned. "I was studying that long?"
"Yes, sir. Ya told us ta leave ya alone when we tried to tell ya."
The book had held his attention for almost three weeks. Thinking
back, yes, it must have been that long. "Gads, ignore my commands
next time, that's an order!"
"Yes, sir. We've been practicin', like ya said. We've become
quite good at it."
"Excellant. And the minstrels?"
"Playing day and night. They want ta perform for the townfolk."
Varian paused for a moment. "It's too late to leave now and catch
that rogue Maidez." The month has been wasted.
"They've come 'ere, sir."
"They are HERE!" It was a good thing he hadn't left. He would
have passed Maidez on the road.
"Arived yesterday with 11 men and a mysterious fella by the name of
Mawgli. Our scouts can't tell a thing about him."
"Really, now! Finish studying and I'll contact Renaldo."
"He's left, sir. He pulled out and 'is people've scattered
'cross Pesbrand."
"Finish studying, I must write some letters and pull everyone back
together or we will be sitting ducks for Maidez and Pain. Tell the
others. Prepare! It is going to get very hot here next month -- a
few months early and we have preparations to attend to." Varian
looked out towards the banner of Maidez de la Montt in the distance.
A large black bird circled over his camp. "Pain." He hissed the word.
Varian retreated to his tent to finish his studies. "He burns his
boats and smashes his cooking pots; he urges the army on as if driving
a flock of sheep, now in one direction, now in another, and none knows
where he is going," the book continued. By early next month, they
must be prepared. He must be prepared.
Thou art like one of these fellows that, when he enters the confines
of a tavern, claps me his sword upon the table and says, "God send me
no need of thee!" and by the operation of the second cup draws him on
the drawer, when indeed there is no need.
Ah, law and order! While we, coming from a land where we ourselves were
Sultan, Wazir, and Kazi, find the concept somewhat confusing when applied to
our person, we applaud the brave attempts to bring justice to these barbaric
areas. True jucicial efforts, however, require the knowledge and the consent
of the population which they are purported to protect. Unfortunately,
strangers such as ourselves have no way of knowing which areas are cradled
in the gentle but firm hands of the law, and which areas are yet swathed in
anarchy. Furthermore, while we assume that it is no longer considered
acceptable for us to rip out the tongue of one who swears in our presence,
as we did when it amused us in the Good Ol' Days, we are ignorant as to what
exactly is considered to be a transgression of the local ordinances. Be
these matters as they are, we plead for all would-be Protectors of the Peace
to reveal themelves and their agendas, for the knowledge and well-being of all
people, &tc.
With profound regards to the citizens both continents,
Mohammed ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi [819]
Commander of the Faithful
Justice served at last, the evil Zyzak brought to trial,
and Drassa saved. And did any of His fellow magicians notice
His self sacrificing move, abandoning the safty of the magicians
towe? No! They probably thought He was running out on them.
Hah, little did they know. Of course they would think that, but
He knew differently. Should Zyzak have chosen to attack the
magicians tower, it was most likely that he would have gone
for the head of the tower, Himself. But where were the thanks,
the rewards and the attention He truely deserved for such a
self sacrificing act?. Perhaps he should run for guild
master, another thankless job.
And with the teleportation spell now under His command, He could
visit the outlying towers, and provide some protection for the
mages therein. Well, best wait and see what His fellow mages
thought of the idea...
The troops were juggling in the square. Everyone else was at their books.
When a paniced voice, a townsman cried. "Ware, oh ware; the bird have come".
The Bird of Death. The bird of Grief. Oh woe, oh woe, the birds have come.
They'll surely squash us like a bug. Our puny troops, scarce trained at all...
Alas for the time we danced in the square, rather than training our skill.
Alas for our wimpy weapons, our puny leader, our helpless scholars.
If only we had at least set flee at 0; then maybe some would have escaped.
We're doomed ! We're doomed ! They'll trash us sure...
And our lord and master too.
The troops straggled back from the square. The scholars were torn from their
books and hastily armed .... Then tensely, they awaited their doom.
But the birds flew past ! Headed out to sea !
We should have fought them. We'd surely have won. And loot these red clawed
fiends have in plenty. And if no loot, as they're merely birds ... just
imagine capturing them to ride.
The troops returned to entertaining the town. The scholars returned to their
study. But the townsfolk booed their latest show ... a tale of capturing birds.
The back room of the 'Tangled Eel' was dimly lit by badly trimmed candles
and a smoking oil lamp. The charcoal brazier in the corner offered more
heat than light, warming the young men in the room against the chill of
the fog-sodden night outside.
One last figure stole inside and closed the thick wooden door.
"Is this all who would come? Very well, bar the door.", one of the men
seated at the table in the crowded room commanded as he stood. He looked
over the assemble group - less than a dozen young men, some in finery,
some in the rough habit of swordsmen, some in trappings that marked them
as truly foreign.
"My friends, princes all, I welcome you. We have not all met, but we
can tell our tales after we reach some agreements. However we each came
to this benighted place, none of us have been here very long. In that
short time we have all of us heard how lawless and backward this land is.
Many of us have heard of a man, a demon rather, called 'Doctor Pain' who
would slaughter those like us for the fat purse we each seem to have."
At this, every man in the room shifted. Not a few stole one hand to
their wallets and the other to their daggers.
"It is for this reason we are met here tonight. Whatever fate brought us
each here, whatever hopes we might have to thrive or survive in this land
depend on our banding together against the evil that wields its power
without restraint."
One of the young men standing near the door spoke up.
"We cannot defeat this Doctor Pain! It is said he has dark powers at his
command."
The first man nodded. "I do not suggest we hunt him down. Not yet, at
any rate. But there are other bandits and murders in this land and if we
stand together and work together, we can gain the time to strengthen our
arms and other powers, so the greater villains of this land will think
twice before they attack any of us."
"Are we agreed?"
The frightened young men murmurred their assent. They knew they were
doomed on their own. Perhaps, if they stood together...
-----------
Two weeks after the band of young princes had sworn themselves to each
other, young Wulf wandered down a narrow alley. He had had a terrible
time trying to understand the language and currency in this barbarian
land. The daily customs of these rude people so unnerved him, he had yet
to successfully acquire more than his daily bread. In confusion and
despair he made his way back towards the 'Tangled Eel' to meet with some
of his companions.
With no warning, a group of thugs wielding blades surrounded the
bewildered Wulf. Their leader stepped forward, bringing the point of his
sword to Wulf's chin.
"Whassamadda, princey-wincey? You lost? You tryinta findja mamma?"
Wulf looked around in desperation. He was confused, but he was not a
coward. He feinted a dodge to his left, then swept the leader's feet,
sending the punk to the cobbles. It was hopeless. The others were on
him instantly, plunging their swords in his back.
---------
Brillan Damar clenched his jaw as he was told of the murder. In his mind
he tallied the number of armed men that had been entrusted to him.
"We'll get the bastards," he growled, "and whoever paid them."
John Smith has no ties with Dr. Pain
====================================
We have been informed that John Smith has marked as beeing part of Dr. Pain's
group of killers, and we want to set the record straight. John Smith had
some communication with Dr. Pain before the later started his killings, this
is why most of his units escaped unharmed. His brother Dave Smith was killed
though, and his other brother Dave had to step in. John Smith was involved in
the attempt of arresting the group of bandits known as "Cohort Mirhys".
Unfortunatly the group resisted arrest, and all of them were killed. John
Smith has also tried to arrest 4 vagrant (INDEPENDENT) units, but they have
in all resisted arrest (despide the recent changes allowing prisoners), and
unfortunatly died in the process.
The Town Council of Camaris would also like to announce the following:
Camaris is protected by John Smith and his men, and the
following rules apply:
1. Entertainers need a licencee (25g/unit/month).
Please pay John Smith.
2. Vagrants (independents) will be apprehended,
forced to pay a fine, and then released.
3. Any attacker ( appart from law enforcement ) will
be apprehended, fined , and released at the
beginning of next month.
4. The law enforcement units are not responsible for
any deaths caused while apprehending units resisting
arrest.
This announcement will be posted every turn in Camaris, and will take effect
at the beginning of next month.
The Town Council of Camaris [355]
It was the night of the 14th day of the month of dark night. The
struggling street performer was just finishing up after a slow day.
"Competition sure was hell today in Pactra," he mumbled to himself. Then,
the sky suddenly darkened as dark clouds rolled in. The wind picked up.
The performer saw a swirl of leaves as a small whirlwind appeared in an
alley. When the dust cleared...there stood a man, from out of thin air.
"Milamber!" he thought, "What is he doing sneaking around here?"
Log of Dark Night, Year 3127
With eager anticipation I parted the underbrush and silently slipped
from the constrains of the forest. I looked down at the sea first,
having never seen it, and then at the small town which I would call
home. It was a small place with only a few score residents but the
aromatic smell rising from the cooking fires drew me in. Being
careful not to be seen while filching food and supplies was easier
than I had ever encountered before, but I remained wary. I sought
out a few townsmen who were of kindred spirits and brought them into
my confidence. Later that night I learned of other new travellers in
town and feared the wrath of Morgoth continuing his vile destruction
of my life... The next few days I remember little. I came upon a
fever of great power to succumb one into the depths of its fury.
When I finally rose from my bed with my companions at my side I said,
"Let us destroy the minions of Morgoth in this land before they do me
further harm."
Dawn broke over South Charrick, to find Rocko and his Rowdies
aboard the Dawn Star, ready to make sail. Nej and her Personal Guard
waved to the former Sheriff from the School of Combat; the two groups
had become quite friendly during the training sessions held there.
Nej wondered silently at Rocko's sudden desire to take to sea, but
said nothing. During his last few days in the tower, the warrior had
become distant and preoccupied.
Down on the deck, Rocko was listening to his Runner, who was
acting as captain for the coming voyage. "Sir, the ship is
overloaded. We can't take all these horses with us; we'll sink as
soon as we hit the sea."
Rocko's features twisted in a spasm, "Damn it, man, I said
sail! We're bound for Chardia, as fast as the winds will take us!"
He fingered his longsword, and a look of fright crossed his lackey's
face, and the frightened man left the foredeck at a run.
>Chardia. Come to Chardia< spoke a voice in Rocko's mind.
The whisperings had begun several months earlier, when he had first
heard of the place. Deep memories stirred within him. He remembered
a place called Chardia, and a gleaming city that he had never seen.
He could see the tall spires of its towers, and the gaily colored
streamers flying from the tallest tower of all. >My abode, in
Runesward< came the silent voice, >We can build it here, in this
world.<
He clasped his hands to his temples, and screamed. "No! I am
Rocko, not Kosar. There is no Runesward, and I will not leave my new
home in South Charrick." His guards stopped in their work to look at
their leader, now barely recognizable as Olympia's foremost military
leader. "I will not go!" he snarled between clenched jaws, his face a
livid mask. "I am my own master, and will hear no other." Sweat
beaded upon his brow as he battled his inner demon.
>Very well, then, fight me< the voice responded. >I grant you
a victory today, but remember, I'll be back, and I will dominate your
will.<
Rocko relaxed; the presence was gone from his mind. He
inhaled deeply, and exhaled a shaky prayer to the gods of Olympia. He
turned to his quivering shipmaster, whose concern for his lord had
overcome his fear. "Unload the ship. We stay here," he said crisply,
his grey eyes again clear.
Votes Recorded on Fleeing Before Combat
The votes are in, and it's 8 to 1 in favor of fleeing before
combat, if the situation warrants. Therefore, units will do a flee
check before any combat takes place, and thus avoid combat.
-- sc (Sen~or Combat)
* * * The Dragaeran Trading Company Announces * * *
The Olympia turn checker!
It's lo-fat! It's high-protein! It's FDA approved!
This marvel of the mideval age reads in turn commands, checks
syntax, and prints out an english version of the commands for easy
checking. No longer will you buy 5 of 6 instead of 6 of 5. It also
does reasonability checks (ie. you can't buy Osswid, and you can't
terrorize a rug).
Next, Vax, Sparc, Decstation and Sun3 binaries are available from
shrimp.cs.washington.edu in pub/olympia. Don't be the last one in your
Cabal to own one!
Comments/questions/bug reports to hauck@cs.washington.edu.
Note: For bug reports, please include the line that triggered the bug, and
the output the checker gave.
An open letter to the Citizens of Olympia from Milinkthos:
I and many other people have been falsely accused of murder or
aiding murderers. I feel it is my duty at this time to clear my name,
and that of others which people with little real information are dragging
through the mud.
I have been accused of being Dr. Pain's Lackey, something that even
Dr. Pain seems to want the world to think. Well, the truth of the matter
is that I had the misfortune early in the game of unwisely choosing friends.
Yes, I was friendly with Dr. Pain at the beginning, before the killings.
However, I do not condone murder of innocent newbies, and do not support
Dr. Pain's actions. Because of this, I have severed all links with Dr. Pain.
I am not interested in warfare, and am taking steps to remove myself from
the contested lands around Chardia.
In keeping with the generally held philosophy, I have never ATTACKed,
PERSUADEd, or TERRORIZEd another player's units, and do not condone this
actions when performed by any player, except when directed against another
murderer. However, although I have also not ATTACKed any independent units,
I feel it is stupid to extend the same protection given to controlled units
to independent units, and I feel most players would agree with me. Independent
units benefit no-one, and serve no useful purpose as is, so the only reasonable
thing to do with them is ATTACK, PERSUADE, or TERRORIZE them so that their
assets can be put to good use. People don't object to killing Orcs, so why
should they care about independents?
So, why have I gone through this long diatribe? Well, there are
several people who have been falsely accused of crimes, when in fact their
actions are quite reasonable. So, to set the record straight:
Tharkin The Cool - He has been accused based solely on The Black Castle News.
However, the only proven dealings between him and the Dr. were the
acceptance of 3 feet of cold steel in the chest on turn #18.
Bastrestric ther Archmonaged - Last turn he killed
[1318] Halena Hathar - independent since turn 18
As I mentioned before, killing an independent should be considered
completely reasonable and respectable.
John Smith - His killings have been to date:
[1319] Cohort Mirhys - murderers of several in Chardia
[1325] Ouslander - independent since turn 19
[1335] Ashley Lotta - independent since turn 19
[829] Old man - independent since turn 19 (for partial corroboration
of this, notice that there was no name change announcement
when this unit went from "Poka" to "Old man". At the same time
god made him independent (presumeably an abandoned position) he
changed the name).
[1311] Starlight the Concubine - independent since turn 19
So, the only controlled unit killed was a murderer. This hardly makes
him a public menace, though probably not someone to get on the bad side of!
So, the point of all this is Yes, there are murderers abroad who should
be held accountable for their crimes. However, let's not be too quick to judge
others. As was hinted at by the more prominent citizens of Drassa in
connection with Zyzak, if you don't have a witness you can't be sure what
really happened.
--- Milinkthos [808]
from The notes of Fengal Algor, Researcher, Dragonslayer and immigrant
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Entry 1:
--------
It was with mixed feelings that I stepped into the gate to Kircarth. Joy
at the prospects of a new life in untamed Olympia, and apprehension of the
unknown, having left the routine safety of civilization in Algoria. Fears
made no less threatening by the blanket of fog surrounding this village.
Already an attempt has been made on the Fengal name, have one of the
Brothers followed me here? Surely not! I told no-one that I was gating
into Olympia! But there are spies everywhere...
The Olympian culture seems to be very different to the Inherited Class of
Algoria. The guide said "Start a new life", but made no mention of "From
the bottom"! But probably just as well, I have been accepted by almost
everyone I have spoken to, and I have accepted two as my peers... but
there is no indication of the Status Funding I am used to.. perhaps we are
expected to work for our income?
Aside from these problems, I have already determined that there is Lore to
research, with unexplored terrain 25 days to the South East. Though I
hope that my investigations do not again reveal any treasonous
information...
Entry 2:
--------
Oh! My ignorance! Olympia is indeed an uncivilized place! There is a large
underworld, with murderous Dr.Pain and Zyzak leading multiple attacks
against innocent men and families! Where is this lands policing agency?
There have been talks of an "Anti Pain Alliance", but little seems to have
come of them.
And what of this Bird of Death that flew through Kircarth last month? Why
have these inhabitants not cleared land of such wildlife? I am beginning
to see what task lies ahead of me...
..
..
[ A puzzled-looking young man wanders into town, stopping when he
sees the Olympia Times, and begins to read it - shaking his head
over tales of carnage, murder, and mahem. Suddenly he stops and
exclaims: ]
"25 gold for submissions to the Times! What a wonderful idea! Let's
see, what to post, what to post ... Say - can I post the same boring
thing every month and keep getting 25 gold pieces??"
[ He reads some more, noticing another issue of the Times. ]
"Hmm. Seems like Labor Force already thought of that idea."
Sylvester the Puzzled
While discussions were underfoot for the formation of a transitional
immigrant alliance, agents of the underworld sowed discord by the
formation of a bloodthirsty combat group hell-bent on destruction.
In an attempt to undermine the reputable Fengal Algor, a corrupt Olympian
created Fengal's Hoodlums and proceeded to attack citizens Wulf and
Antonius.
Fortunately Antonius had hired a bodyguard and was himself familiar with
battle tactics, managing to valiantly defend their honour. Tragically
losing two of his loyal escorts, though not without inflicting similar
damages to the traitorous horde of Hoodlums.
Even more tragic, citizen Wulf was caught completely unawares, and was
cold- bloodedly murdered, even while he attempted to flee.
The remaining members of the alliance have sworn to find the purveyor of
such evil, and have already taken steps to expose the coward.
The good name of Fengal Algor was reinstated during the investigations
into these meaningless attacks.
- Kircarth correspondent
Oleg the Loudmouth's Interesting Player List
============================================
This is a list if people you might want to watch out for, because
they've done, erm, "interesting" things in the past.
This list does change -- would people prefer that I only give a
summary of the new information, or the entire list every time?
Dr. Pain [814] -- Killed 12 new players in Chardia on turn 17,
captured 2 units in Habyn on turn 21. Captured 4 players and 10 units
on turn 21. Units owned or captured: 1301 1308 1312 1321 1332 1346
1353 1356 1359 1360 1363 1365 1368 1371 1375 1376 1465 1875.
Bastrestric ther Archymonaged [801] -- Killed 1 unit on turn 23 in
Chardia. Listed as friend by Dr. Pain.
Seldon the Avatar [809] -- killed 1863 in Pesbrand on turn 20. Killed
1 player and 3 units in Ilion on turn 23. Units owned: 1400.
Mohammed ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi [819] -- Attacked newbie player in
Ilion on turn 21, but was unable to beat one man. Units owned: 819
834.
John Smith [823] -- Present in Chardia during Dr. Pain massacre but
was not attacked; listed as ally by Dr. Pain; killed unit that killed
player 830 and others in Chardia; killed 2 other units in Camaris on
turn 20. Killed player & one unit on turn 23 in Camaris. Units owned:
1317 1494? 1935 1972?.
Sadness [853] -- Listed as ally by Dr. Pain; killed once in Chardia
while studying at guild towers, so must have had Dr. Pain's
permission. Units owned: 1880.
Maidez de la Montt [868] -- formed unit Men in Black [1918] that
attacked Longshot in Pesbrand turn 21. On turn 22, Men in Black formed
Captain Marhalt [1991], who then formed [1998], [2007], and [2012], and
tried to kill 4 players but failed every time. Men in Black was
captured but the other units escaped. Units owned: 1991 1995 1998 2007
2012 2020(stealth 1).
Despair [1461] -- killed 1 unit in Chardia. Anyone know who owns this?
Fengal's Hoodlums [2037] -- killed newbie in Kircarth on turn 23. The
violence spreads. Player 876 is Fengal Algor, can anyone confirm if he
owns this unit?
Sightings last turn:
====================
Maidez de la Montt [868] ended turn 23 in Pesbrand, along with unit
1995.
Seldon the Avatar [809] was killing people in Ilion during turn 23.
Bastrestric ther Archymonaged [801] was killing people in Chardia
during turn 23.
John Smith [823] was killing people in Camris during turn 23.
Dr. Pain [814] was killing people in West Habyn during turn 23.
If you believe any information on this list is incorrect, please write
me. If you would like to contribute information, especially combat
reports and/or sighting reports, please write. Information is like a
breath of fresh air: it makes everyone's day happier.
Oh the competition, I must say I did pick up a bunch of new material
to add to my repetoire; however, 'tis a much mixed blessing. I think 'tis
time to move on for better pickings elsewhere in the wide world; I was getting
a little tired of Rimmon anyway. Maybe I'll head up to Areth Pirn; I haven't
been up there in a good long time.
Then again Kircarth sounds promising. I've never been there, but I've
heard some good things about it. Ok, one more meal to bum off LJ, then I'm
off again to tour the world. Damn, I wish I'd gone back to Pactra to get that
horse M'lord Erekosse promised. Maybe I'll do that before heading off to
Kircarth. Maybe that's not such a bad idea after all. No doubt he'll have
some choice viddles for me to mooch.
We'll see how we do in clearer pastures. Upper Rimmon sounds like a
likely spot on the way to Areth Pirn. We'll see what's cooking there, and
perchance do a bit of street busking.
JOIN THE ARENA TODAY !!
All entrants fight to prove that THEY are the greatest warriors in Olympia.
They train as they like, they flee when they like, they carry their
preferred weapons, and the winner takes a HUGE prize purse !
Contact Kaspar [581] or mail "rob@ccc.govt.nz" immediately.
For the small fee of 50 gold, your CHAMPION could become the greatest
fighter in all Olympia ! JOIN TODAY !
Roving Reporter's Column
========================
Zyzak Dead ! Thousands Rejoice !
================================
The recent battle in Drassa was indeed the bloodbath it was expected to be.
Zyzak, taken by surprise, outflanked and outmanoeuvered, was systematically
massacred. His men stayed with him to the bitter end, but obviously they
also knew that there would be no mercy for any of them after their crimes.
Bravely they fought to the death, but the result was the same.
Zyzak - 268 deaths
Defenders of the Olympian way - 0 deaths
And after Zyzak had been captured and formally executed, the people of
Drassa came into the streets and celebrated for days !!
However, the death of Zyzak does not bring peace to this world. many others
are still involved in the business of slaughter. During the last month,
Dr Pain slaughtered 5 prisoners, John Smith massacred 2 travellers on the
road, and Seldon tha Avatar also killed 4 groups, 2 of which were going
about their lawful business !
I call upon the Defenders of the Olympian way who have bought justice to
Drassa, to go forth into the wider world (especially Chardia etc) and
spread the same justice there ! Those who live by the sword, should also
die by the sword !!
Tony Wayland raised his eyebrows at the Times before him. "Killed by
what?" No wonder the progress reports from the new continent wasn't
coming in. There was nothing to report. Killed. All of them. He cursed
under his breath.
Someone named Seldon the Avatar did this. Tony took a swig of rum to
calm his nerves down. Well... that tears it. Partially getting the
entire new continent team killed was the fault of managment but the
corporation's name was at the line. Whether he wanted to or not, he
was going to have to hunt down Seldon the Avatar and make him pay for
his crimes no matter how much it cost.
He looked around his office and his eyes alighted to the map that
recently came in. The route to the new continent has almost been
established. It will take him 2 months to prepare his team and to get
them on the ship to the new continent. Tony started callin in favors
he was owed....
Yet he was not totally obsessed with vengeance. The starlight courier
on the old continent was running as smoothley as ever. He decided he
still needed someone on the new continent to handle business and if
possible take care of one Seldon the Avatar.
*****************
BOUNTY: 5000 gold for the head of Seldon the Avatar and all his units.
If you don't get him, I will and I have no problem keeping 5000 gold
all to myself.
WANTED: An aspiring new partner to open up a Starlight courier service
in the new continent. All prospects considered. Interesting lore, information,
and trade as benifits. Enjoy recognition, strong allies, and use of
the company condo for family vacations.
All questions, comments or inquiries to dirque@gnu.ai.mit.edu
******************
-Tony Wayland [572]
Starlight Courier: When we decide to come get you. We decide to come
GET you.
P.S: This is an open bounty. I'll give my 5k to anyone. Including Dr.
Pain, Oleg the Loudmouth. Anyone.
--
3341 commands submitted for 508 units