The Courant: November 2001

November 26, Monday

Cove Tavern Night - Videric

We once again welcome ye all to the Tavern Night. This week's we shalt once again determine the week's knife throwing champion. You can find the Tavern of Cove Tradeport at North of Cove (Trammel). For more detailed map go to our tome at http://cove.rper.org/ EDIT TIME is 20 CET on next Thursday. (maybe this will teach me not post when really tired, few "details" get lost) Hopefully we see thee there, The Gaveston Family

Yew to Land's End Marathon - Elv'eng

Sunday 2nd December 2001 9:00pm (UK time) As this will be the first public event held by the SBG/SBX it will be free (yes free!) to enter. There will be a small prize for the winner Route The Start is at Empath Abbey, Yew (the bank). First checkpoint is the Brit/Skara/Yew crossroads. Second Checkpoint is the L shaped bridge on the Britain ~ Trinsic Road. Finish is at the SBG Guildhouse at Land's End just past the Honour Shrine You will be gated back to a convenient town to collect your stuff. Rules All people taking part must be in a guild warred to the SBX (South Beach Mercenary Company) so you can be snooped before the start. Anyone not in a warred guild can join the SBG's tournament stone for the race. ICQ Raxnixia on 75137247 You must be at Empath Abbey by 9:00pm UK time (10:00pm European time, 3:00pm CST & 4:00pm EST). You will be given a item of clothing which you must wear and have with you when you finish. No pets are allowed at any time during the race There are checkpoints that you must pass in order not to be disqualified, this should prevent people jumping into moongates. You must be alive when you pass the checkpoints and when you finish the race (and at the start obviously). You are allowed to have one weapon , a shirt, trousers/skirt and footware (no armour or magic stuff). You backpack must be COMPLETELY empty. You will be snooped before the start and there will be random snooping during the race. The snooper is allowed to keep anything they find in your backpack. Guilds are encouraged to make their own uniform up. Anyone forgetting their kit will have to run in their underwear. Using the town and player made moongates is forbidden. You are not allowed to get pets from a stable, visit a bank or use ANY vendors. Do not kill other competitors Make sure you know where you are going and where the checkpoints are. You must make sure the marshals at the checkpoint has seen you. There will be other arrangements to make sure that you don't cheat but we won't tell you about those Governor, Brand [SBG]

The staff of Ramilla - part 2 - Elv'eng

And the story contiues, this was posted on the ERPA general board today: It was on Sunday that the Adeptus Wikkr has called the Duchy and the Trinsic Paladins to a meeting at the Duchy Tower, to reveal more information he gathered in the few days since the Staff of Ramilla was destroyed. While the crowd was waiting for Wikkr, a friend of the Duchy appeared. It was Minos Numenor who was driven out of his village by the Cataclysm. He told Ikus that he had seen Mathilde in Aqiliea, together with some of the evil brood now dwelling there. Minos thought it would be a good chance to get a hand on Mathilde and try to remove the evilban of her, with the combined forces of the gathered Knights. Minos left for Aqileia while Ikus and Wolfric readied their troops to follow short after Minos. As they arrived, Aqileia was quiet and calm. The clouds were darker than elsewhere and no bird was heard singing, nor any animal strolled by. They searched for Minos but couldnt find him as they encounteres a dark clad man, looking very sullen and annoyed. Despite the fact that he was surrounded by 20 angry Knights and Mages, he told them that Mathilde has been leaving with an escort to Nohkmahr and that Ghaun was working in his alchemical lab as a single man arrived. This man entered the lab and the stranger told the crowd that he has heard the sounds of fighting. He went into the lab and saw that Ghaun threw the unconscious body of the man through a magical gate. Then Ghaun said: "I am going now to Nohkmahr, we have to do some ritual. Guard the Laboratory". Ikus and Wolfric decided to go to Nohkmahr to stop the ritual and try to free Mathilde from the evil spirit, although they knew that their friend Minos was surely in great danger, but they hadnt any clue where he was anyway. The Duchy and the Paladins headed to Nohkmahr where they found the Spire of Saktoth guarded by Liches which attacked the Knights at sight. On the roof, Ghaun was laughing at them while Mathilde was doing an unknown ritual. The Knights called thier battlecry and killed the Liches and hastily made their way to the Towerroof. They arrived as the ritual had ended and they faced Ghaun and Mathilde. As her old friends talked to Mathilde it became clear that the evil which had possesed her, had gone. mathilde was very confused where she was and what she did at the place, while Ghaun became very angry about the situation. Then Mathilde started to explain what she could remember from the time she was possessed. The entity which made his way into her body via the unholy Nohkmahe Gate was the same which tried to destroy Trinsic in early ages, it is only known by the Name of "Messiah of destrcution" or "Force of destruction". With the destruction of the Staff of Ramilla, This evil Messiah was able to break the magical protection over the Town. In the very , almost forgotten, past, there were two groups fighting for the Town of Trinsic. The battle went on and on, and no one was ever seeming to win, bloodshed was immense and the cruelty in this fight became stronger and worse. Some wise man finally discoverd that there was an evil beeing, called The Messiah of destruction, which was behind this never ending battle. It was feeded by all the deaths and destruction and its powers grew day by day. when this was discovered, the Leaders of the both sides agreed to stop this creature, as it was about to swallow Trinsic one day with its rising Powers. They forged two weapons in which they embeded all knowledge and Powers they had. Those artifacts were the "Sword of Honor" and the "Tear of Juo'nar". They were able to stop the surprised Messaih and drive him back into his unknown realms and Trinsic became united, thanks to Ramilla, who crafted her Staff of Protection for this Town. But now, the Messiah was able, by the possesion of Mathilde, to continue his evil work. The Staff had been destroyed, the protection has gone, the spirit of the evil Messiah is haunting through Trinsic again. By the last ritual Mathilde had done, Trinsic was divided into 8 sectors, filled with hatred and bloodlust. Those who would posses the areas, would be revealed the Places of the two lost artifacts, "The sword of Honor" and "The tear of Juonar", otherwise the Messiah was taking control of this sector and lay it into ashes. Slowly Ghaun disappeared downstairs and there was heard some shouting. Orcs grunting was heard and t Ikus and Wolfric decided to leave this evil place. Safely all returned to Trinsic, this day was a success for the Protectos of the Town, but they could allready feel the hatred in this Town crawling into their spines.............

The staff of Ramilla - Elv'eng

Just some intresting news that i found in the ERPA General messages board. Sounds intresting: *a pigeon swoops low and settles onto the shoulder of Ikus* Ikus reaches up and removes the slip of paper from its leg. As he unrolls the missive, Ikus reads: I have found an ancient artifact. It is the Staff of Ramila. I have done some research on this staff and I believe it to be the symbol of a united Trinsic long ago. I also believe its magical powers are great. I wish to bestow this artifact upon those who fight so well to defend our beloved Trinsic from evil. M’Lord Ikus will you consent to be present at a ceremony in which I will grant both the Trinsic Paladins of Honor and the Duchy of Trinsic this priceless artifact? Signed, Druid Darman Tekilnos *time passes and the hour of the ceremony arrives* Wolfric and the Trinsic Paladins and Ikus and the Duchy gather around Druid Darman Tekilnos to hear him speak. The Druid begins to relate the tale of how he found the staff and how important he thinks it is for Trinsic. Without warning a magic portal opens and several members the group Cataclysm step out. They quickly surround those present at the ceremony. Taken off guard, the Duchy and the Paladins grip their swords and prepare for battle. Ji’Masro Ghaun of Cataclysm addresses the group. “Our lovely Mathilde, former member of the Duchy, whose soul we hold captive—informed us of this meeting. We are here for the staff”. Turning to the Druid and smiling coldly, so and so reaches forth and says, “The staff—I will take it NOW!”. The Druid Tekilnos stumbles back out of reach. “No! Never! You have no need of this staff. This staff is for those who defend Trinsic and none other!” Ghaun threatens, “Unhand that staff or Mathilde dies!” Tekilnos is unnerved by this threat. He is not sure whether or not Cataclysm will carry out this deed. Rather than take a chance on causing the death of the High Priestess Mathilde, Tekilnos reluctantly gives the staff to Ji’Masro Ghaun. To the amazement of the group, Ji’Masro magically creates a field of fire and casts the staff into the flames. “No!!!!”, the Druid screams in terror! “NO!!!”. A mighty explosion rocks the earth and the staff dissolves into the flames. Ji’Masro triumphantly exclaims, “Trinsic is now in pieces and blood will flow through its streets again!” As the Druid shakes his head in disbelief, he spies a scroll upon the ground where the explosion occurred. Without drawing attention to himself, he picks up the scroll and hides it in the folds of his robe. Unfortunately, a member of Cataclysm sees the Druid hiding something in his robe. He informs his leader. The evil Ghaun orders his men to take hold of Druid Tekilnos. He orders the Druid to reveal what he is hiding. Tekilnos slowly removes the scroll from his robe. He unrolls the scroll and begins to read: “Once eight, now united Fallen apart again The artifacts power ignited Need for virtuous men. The tear of Juo’nar The sword of Honor They lie not afar At our door, a long lasting war! Find the eight cradle They hide the direction To freedom of Trinsic Or its destruction.” Tekilnos looks confused…..he shows the group that there is also a map of Trinsic with the scroll. He confesses that he does not know what this all means and will need to spend some time in his library to find the answers. Ji’Masro Ghaun and his minions disappear into a magic portal and Ikus, Wolfric and the others bid the Druid godspeed as he travels back to his library to search for the answers to this puzzling turn of events. What now Duchy? What is the message of this scroll? What happens next? We anxiously await news from Druid Tekilnos.

November 20, Tuesday

The Southern Expedition - Part 1 - Elv'eng

A letter received from Ajax, Expedition Master of The Yew Mercantile League. Night came, as the setting sun gave its place to a full moon and a dark veil of stars and constellations covered the former sky of amber and ruby. This night was more than expected and a horn sounded the gathering to the tavern. A group of hearty adventurers and keen rangers joined all together round a man who was dressed himself in ranger clothes. He wore a long green cloak and upon his brown boots hid a dagger. He put the horn near his belt which held steady his studded leggings and armor. After seeing the many people that gathered he said: " Grand. Let it be written that The Southern Expedition begun Sunday 18th of November." The scribe nodded and followed his command. The Expedition was finally a reality. "From Dreamstone we departed and followed the long lost Southern Trail. It was the quickest and probably the only way to reach our destination which was the towns in question Skara Brae and Spiritwood. At first, things where not so well. The expedition fell victim to deep mud which almost risked the life of a mount. Fortunately Ajax, the Expedition Master had a rope with him and gave it to Boromir who in turn lassoed it to a nearby tree thus enabling to pass slowly but steady through the treacherous mud. In our trail we had seen many guard outposts that most where unfortunately not manned and ruins of houses of old. A sorcerer in the Expedition tried to cast a spell to light our path but alas the nether around the Southern Trail was too corrupted for any Virtuous magic to be used of. However we were not disappointed. We camped nearby the woods as to rest and to have strength to continue our trail. The Dreamstone Defenders that accompanied us scouted the area and spotted a Brigand Camp. We were lucky we bypassed it and we did not fell victims to their savage intentions. As we reached a crossroad however, the Defenders where called home by a distress pigeon saying that the town was under siege. The Expedition though did not come to an end although its numbers severely decreased. We came along many a monster and for a moment Decker, a citizen of Yew and Dreamstone and known for his skill in carpentry, went berserk refusing help from any of us. Luckily some cider made him stand to his feet. We reached the crossroads by noon, and there where plenty of people awaiting us...with a glare. We paid no heed to their intentions and in their agitation they launched an attack. Our retreat to the woods was most successful and we got away from them. Many where heavily injured though and the aid Daelin Proudmoore offered was more than encouraging. We continued our way until we came upon another crossroad sign, recently painted that pointed to both the townships we seeked...Skara Brae and Spiritwood. We chose the later as to see if this famed city had survived from any possible misfortunes. Luckily all was intact. By afternoon we arrived, tired yet filled with joy and had an ale at the Spiritwood Tavern. The first part of The Southern Expedition was successful. All that remains is a report on the status of both towns, new maps to bring back to The Merchant Hall of The Yew Mercantile League and perhaps a gift representing each city. We hope the second part of The Southern Expedition attracts even more of those who seek an "adventure" out of the ordinary and want to learn more of the townships that surround our fine realm. Signed, Ajax, Expedition Master

November 19, Monday

Beginnings - Videric

First of prequel fiction to Blackthorn's Revenge by Austen Andrews (UO2 prequel fiction author) has been published at uo.com BNN, you can also read the story at our history section here: http://traveller.rper.org/history/juka-meer.shtml

November 18, Sunday

Cove Market Day this Thursday! - Videric

22nd of November, Thursday at 20.00 CET. Hail to thee Traveller! It is our pleasure to announce the Second Market Day of Cove (Trammel). This will be your day to meet people and make good trade agreements. The Tradeport’s Merchants will be offering follow goods and more: - Both stone crafting and glassblowing items. - Alchemy, Carpentry, Blacksmithing, and Tailoring products. Please note that we welcome visiting merchants as well. If your interested in coming to the Market and reserve a place (note that you can come without notice too, if you prefer, but you have to provide your own sales table), drop a note at our bulletin board at: http://cove.rper.org/cgi-bin/dcforum/dcboard.cgi. The Market will be hold at the Gaveston Manor roof, and exact map can be found at: http://cove.rper.org/ Wishing to see thee there, The Gaveston Family

November 12, Monday

CoveTavern Night: Celebration of the defeat of Exodus' forces - Videric

We welcome everyone to drink and have merry to Cove weekly Tavern Night. Because last weeks attack against Exodus, the tavern night was cancelled at the last moment. However this week we have good reason to celebrate, our victory over Exodus and the peace made with the Gargoyles. So doth come and tell thy story, or simply to listen and drink. Long live Britannia! http://cove.rper.org/

November 10, Saturday

An update from Nystul (via Tara) - Elv'eng

This is what Tara have found out so far: Hail, my name is Tara and I love llamas. Today I went back to Lord British's castle in Trammel to see if Nystul was doing anything exciting. Silly me, I should have remembered he is a stuffy old codger of a mage! And not only that he had one of the stuffiest men in the realm there too. None other than Conrad Gaveston. I'd heard about this fellow and I recognised him becuase he has the same sort of spammy forhead that his son Videric has. *giggles* Well this fellow was full of stern advice and seriousness. Very boring, if you ask me. Anyway, Nystul had something interesting to say though. Apparently Exodus' evil tower thingymejiggys have been destroyed, but Exodus' dungeon in Ilshenar retains some of its energy. Now if you ask me that sounds like gobbledigook, but Conrad seemed to take this message very seriously. I guess some brave adventurers should go to Ilshenar and investigate this energy stuff. Oh and someone might want to tell that randy stable boy at the palace to watch his step, he insisted on invading my personal space all the time. Hmmph!

November 9, Friday

A mysterious black gate. - Elv'eng

We recived this news from Shri: Rumours had been reaching us for some time now about a mysterious black gate, an archway of bones surrounded by the paraphernalia of malevolence, that has been sighted taking shape atop the black spire of Nohkmahr, city of the damned. Having heard additional rumours of a new uprising among the accursed Severed Head Orc tribes, and a dark plot to call forth some sort of legion of darkness, we decided to gather our forces at last and journey to Nohkmahr’s vile realms to investigate first hand. With mages and warriors of Spiritwood gathered, we steeled our nerves and at last made our way there, passing through our own magical portal into the wild woods of Yew. As we cautiously strode into the maze of twisted streets and fetid allies that the outcasts of the land call their home, an eerie silence greeted us. Wind blew detritus through empty streets and only the distant howls of wolves broke the stillness. Nothing else stirred. This we found unnerving, as some had reported an Orc spy creeping about earlier that evening in Spiritwood as we gathered to make ready. Sensing a trap, half the forces made their way into the black spire that crowns this wicked place, while the rest stood guard in the streets below, gathering our cloaks against a cold wind that began to whistle through the deformed buildings that pressed in on all sides. Still the silence remained unbroken. But then a call was sent down to us from above. It seems that the ancient Orc Wozza Saktoth himself had emerged from the shadows above and stood in defiance before the assembled host, taunting them with his wicked plans. Quickly, the remaining guards climbed the stairways of the black spire to join those gathered about the evil black gate. There we saw it, the gate of bones with its blackened orifice yawning open, surrounded in unholy trappings and pools of blood. On an alter facing it, flanked by prophets of doom, a sinister book sat before all. Before this stood the Wozza, defiantly bragging about his dark handy work. He spoke of his insane plans to bring a violent and bloody end to this, our beloved realm, through summoning an army of demons through his gate of blackness. Pad O’Lion made a valiant attempt to reason with the brute, demanding to know the sense of destroying a land that was, after all, home to orcs as well as the races of men and elves. To this the withered Wozza merely laughed his maniacal cackling laugh, stating that he and his tribe would be soon depart this land, leaving destruction and damnation in their wake. The leader of the Custodes warned him that we would never allow this to happen, to which Saktoth demanded to know how we would manage to stop him. He pointed out, rightly so, that in spite of our use of force in the past, he somehow has always managed to return once more, bringing ever more woe to the land. Pad scratched his head and pondered these words, even as new figures of menace began to appear. Few at first, but surely dangerous, members of that damned cult calling themselves Cataclysm the Final Chapter began to show themselves, giving truth to the rumours of a dark alliance. Then passing Savage warriors had gathered to, no doubt attracted by the commotion. We considered our options as the Wozza’s threats and taunts continued; to simply kill him would be futile, as he had shown an ability to somehow return time and time again. Some suggested taking him alive and imprisoning him, others that his mysterious powers resided in his black staff and that we should make an effort to seize this. Finally, we could wait no longer, as the Wozza turned to the mysterious book upon the alter and began to turn its pages. They appeared to be the skins of many races, now hardened as stained leather. The words, a runic scrawl more like jagged weapons than words, appeared to be as tattoos preserved upon these bound hides. The whole seemed to exude malevolence and a chill went through the assembled crowd as the Orc began his incantations. At last the order was sounded, Pad O’Lion shouted “Take him alive!!”. I cannot say for sure what happened next, but it seems that Orcs and evil members of the Cataclysm sprang up everywhere! In a flash the top of the dark spire was awash in freshly spilled blood as battle erupted on all sides. Pad himself was cut down by hidden enemies before he knew what hit him, even though warriors and mages from both the Custodes Fati and the Knights of Virtue fought valiantly on all sides. Mayhem reigned and new foes leapt out of the shadows all around, but at last the tide turned in our favour, and the last of them fell, pin cushioned with arrows. Alas, the old Wozza again escaped capture in the confusion. As order was finally restored, the forces of righteousness began to pick through the remains, wondering what to do now, and still worried about the midnight-portal that remained, yawning oblivion before us. I myself turned my attentions to the wicked book, and with the help of others, began trying to pry it loose from its magical bond to the black spire. To touch it was agony as it burned with acidic fury, ruining first one then a second pair of toughened leather gauntlets. We tried cutting, prying, pounding and levering it free. We tried dispelling the accursed incantations that held it fast. At last it began to loosen, and with Jen pouring cooling ale- the only liquid we had at hand- over its hissing bindings, I was finally able to wrench it free. But all was not well, as I immediately realized when a sickly fire gripped me and I nearly fell unconscious by its virulence. My comrades rushed to steady me and cure the affliction that flowed from the book I grasped in my hands. It was then that others began to shout about a new difficulty. It seems that in his impatience to learn the secret of the gate, or perhaps out of some misplaced longing for his own homelands in a far distant world, the Oymak Dogei Matur had fool-heartedly leapt through the black gate itself! Only the faint smell of Kumis still lingered where once this proud Nomad had but a moment before stood gazing into its un-knowable depths. His poor horse stared forlornly after him whinnying softly. No one was sure of what to do next and most agreed that to follow would perhaps lead to death for many. It was determined that we should depart that wicked place as soon as we could, taking the accursed book in the hopes that, through study, we might learn its secrets and find a way to rescue the missing Oymak. A moongate was quickly called into being and I stumbled through it, still clutching the wicked tattooed hide tome, even though it injected venoms into my hands. In Spiritwood I quickly set it down and collapsed as friends ministered to my afflictions. We decided to secret the book away and study it. It is hoped that soon we might journey back to the black gate of bones and thence through it to rescue our departed Nomad friend. The book is now safe- we hope, but the table in the Custodes tower is still blackened from where the book lay….. Shri, Proconsul Custodes Fati

Nystul builds a tower! - Elv'eng

Hail, my name is Tara and I love llamas. Yesterday an elf grabbed me and told me I should head to Lord British's Castle in Trammel. I know this elf pretty well and I trust him, so I did just that! I am really glad I did so, because I had a wonderful adventure. When I got to Britain it was absolutely full of people! I've never been in such a crowded place with people shoving and pushing. Anyway I headed into the courtyard and I could see a lot of people were dragging in supplies and placing them in some boxes. There was some pesky mage telling these people what to do. His name was Nystul and he reminded me a bit of my mentor Dardan Brook, they are both mages, a bit pesky and have beards. So the pesky mage is ordering people around and they are following his orders. In go Ingots, those clockwork thingies, gems and all sorts, and as the people put thingies in the boxes out comes this huge tower. Nystul says it will be used to create some spell or something to do something to some Exodus thingy. Whilst all this is happening I bump into Mr O'Lion. He seemed pleased to see me, and was just sending Gui Zarith home since Gui had stones stuck in his sandals. (Gui also has dirty books *giggles*, but that's another story). Once Gui was safely on his way we went behind a hedge to look at the workers toiling for Nystul. Mr O'Lion seemed troubled by all this and muttered something about not trusting a man who had already split the world once.   I then noticed the Regent in the crowd and told Mr O'Lion this. Mr O'Lion must be a bit blind though because he could not make him out, but that was okay because I went after the Regent who was trying to talk to Nystul. Nystul seemed too busy to pay him any attention, so I told the Regent that Mr O'Lion was looking for him. He seemed quite enthused by this and followed Peru (my llama) and I out of the crowds to where Pad was still looking for him *giggles*. I thought this was very exciting, I guided the man who owns Spiritwood (he keeps on telling he does not, *giggles* he's so sweet) to the man who owns Britania! And then the Regent started telling Pad to gather this and that to help Nystul in his project. Pad was not impressed by this and told the Regent that he did not trust the man who was responsiple for splitting the world in two. I wonder how Nystul did that? Elv'eng the elf was also there and he seemed bemused by the two men talking about Nystul. Whilst this went on a Guardsman from the Militia turned up. Usually whenever I meet one of these Guardsmen something exciting happens. Did I tell you about the time they arrested me and tried to set fire to me, but a Gobo rescued me? *giggles* Anyway the Guardsman had come to lend his support to the Regent and Nystul. The Regent start reeling off a list of things he needed, Arcane Gems, Clockwork mechanisms and so on. The Guardsman told the Regent rather bluntly that while they had destroyed many Golems and other such things, they had not recovered any of the artefacts these evil creatures dropped since they were prohibited in doing so by their own laws. The Regent was not too pleased with this I think, but the Guardsmen said he would do what he could to aid Nystul. The Regent then wandered off to do whatever it is that Regent's do. I sat with the elf and Pad and we watched the tower grow before our very eyes. I wondered if the Tower was some sort of special llama stable, but the elf and Pad did not think so. *grumbles* The Regent then wandered off to do whatever it is that Regent's do. I sat with the elf and Pad and we watched the tower grow before our very eyes. I wondered if the Tower was some sort of special llama stable, but the elf and Pad did not think so. *grumbles* I wonder what will happen next?

November 6, Tuesday

Report on the Third Annual Spiritwood Anniversary Festival - Elv'eng

We recived this from Shri from Spiritwood: Well friends, a grand time was had by all this past Sunday as folks gathered from all corners of the realm to share the excitement of yet another of the famous Spiritwood Town Festivals. The expectant mobs began arriving shortly after 20:00 in and around the famed Spiritwood Tavern and soon enough it was standing room only. The frantic Tavern staff struggled to keep the tankards brimming with the best ale in the land as people elbowed their way to the bar. All around an expectant buzz was in the air as visitors talked excitedly about the upcoming events. Soon the time had come and the celebrations commenced. The first event was a town-wide Trivia Contest sponsored by the noble members of the Knights of Virtue. All over town clues had been hidden relating to the history of Sosaria’s most famous community. Steveo of the KoV called all to attention and handed out the books of clues that would be the key to deciphering the riddles scattered across the many buildings of the town. Soon people were scuttling hither and yon all over town, frantically asking each other about the town’s history and famous past. Others stood in expectation awaiting word of the winner. Finally it came and we are pleased to congratulate Dane for his perseverance in stringing together all of the clues and completing the test. Next up were the events of the famed Spiritwood Tournament. Firstly, on the specially prepared roof top of the Ravenspire tower in the south of Spiritwood, a joust was held under the watchful eye of the warriors of the Custodes Fati, lead by our own Balrog. Many great warriors vied for supremacy, dashing back and forth against one another in the lists, striking awesome blows off each other shields. One by one they fell until but one stood supreme. Surprisingly enough, it was the old Orc brute called simply Wa’Thumb, who now bares the title- to the discomfort of many I might add- of Champion of the Tournament! At the same time, another group of eager contestants were gathered atop the ancient tower of the Custodes Fati in the heart of town, where the Wrestling competition was being staged. One after another, they stripped down and squared off, following the strict rules of no healing, armour, weapons or magic, in this test of brute strength, quick feet and stamina. One after the other they fell in a series of elimination rounds until but one was left standing, battered and swaying in a pool of blood to claim the title of Wrestling Champ. It was our old friend and local ranger Owen, recently returned to take part. The crowd then hurried over to the Theatre in the Clouds atop the Spiritwood Town Hall to take part in the next exciting event- a test of mental skill. This was yet another of our famous Talent Shows, this time a Poetry competition hosted by Tarnak of the Executioner’s guild and based on the theme of the Virtues. One after another the poets strode forward, reciting their verses for the packed house. Some told of Love, others of Compassion, others still of Humility. Even one of the visiting Orcs stood forward to share his Orcish war song with the bemused crowds. But it was our own local Doctor, Maria, whose beautifully rendered aria de mezz carutaire (I hope I got that right….) won top votes from the panel of Judges, much to her evident surprise. There followed the final event of the evening, a fashion show sponsored by our favourite girl-about-town Jen of the KoV guild, who detailed the stunning outfits of the many participants. First up came the warriors, who impressed all in their splendid glinting armours and bold tailoring. This category was won by the dashing dark elf Zreeth Sh’Dak, who impressed the all-female jury with his brooding grace. (So, It IS true that women love the villains….) Secondly, the general category saw many fine outfits stunningly modelled to the impressed gasps of the crowd, and none were more surprised than I to find myself taking the prize for me old standard fair, (I reckon the jury were just plain worn out by then….). In the end the evening’s events saw the town packed with scores of guests, much revelry and good cheer and a splendid time was had by all. I would like to thank the event sponsors, the Knights of Virtue, The Custodes Fati, the Executioner’s Guild and of course Aranlindale and the tireless staff of Ye Olde Spiritwood tavern. I would especially like to thank all of the many many visitors who came along to take part and are all the true stars of the show. Can’t wait for the next one! Shri, Proconsul Custodes Fati On behalf of the Spiritwood Festival Committee.

Spritwood Joust - Elv'eng

Last sunday a Joust was held in Spiritwood: Sunday was the night for the Spiritwood Joust…..and what a night it became. 16 brave warriors showed up to prove their skills to the screaming crowd in the fine art of jousting. In my opinion the finest and most honorable way to compete. The arena was set, the crowd excited, ale served and the weather just perfect. After a few rounds the numbers began to decrease, the true jousters had shown their faces. These brave fighters were: Beneviste Miwant Roxan Wa’Thumb Wug’Lurz Ian McLaughlin Annika Hammer Zumhug After this the temperature went to a sky high level, while the battle was roaring, many of the battles were very equal. We witnessed many brave and fair fights but as always only one can stand in the end and that brave fighter was Wa’Thumb the Orc. The fight was incredible. Ian who had shown great skill with his spear during the entire joust finally met his match. Wa’Thumb and his Mace brought Ian to his knees after several mighty blows. This orc must have arms of steel.. Congratulations Wa’Thumb. Your servant, Balrog of the Custodes fati.

November 4, Sunday

Lycaeum Academy Courses in November - Elv'eng

(Tuesday - November 6th AND 13th:) Taming-beginner course: On 8pm UK time (21:00 CET, 8pm GMT) Apoco will present his course "Taming - beginner course". The lecture will provide basic information about the art of taming and is thus ment for the people just starting in this profession. The course is held in the Lycaeum on Moonglow island in Trammel (Tuesday - November 20th AND 27th:) Taming-intermediate course: On 8pm UK time (21:00 CET, 8pm GMT) Apoco will present his course "Taming - intermediate course". The lecture will provide further information about the art of taming and is thus ment for the people more interested in this topic. The course is held in the Lycaeum on Moonglow island in Trammel (Thursday - November 8th AND 15th:) Magery-beginner course: On 8pm UK time (21:00 CET, 8pm GMT) Apoco will present his course "Magery - beginner course". The lecture will provide basic information about the art of magic and is thus ment for the people just starting in this profession. The course is held in the Lycaeum on Moonglow island in Trammel (Thursday - November 22nd AND 29th:) Magery-intermediate course: On 8pm UK time (21:00 CET, 8pm GMT) Apoco will present his course "Magery - intermediate course". The lecture will provide further information about the art of magic and is thus ment for the people more interested in this topic. The course is held in the Lycaeum on Moonglow island in Trammel Apoco is willing to give private lessons as well. Please contact him with pigeon number 108661992. More information about the Academy as well as a class schedule calendar can be found on http://learn.at/lycaeumacademy Please have a look at this calendar shortly before comming to the courses! Short term changes will be posted there. Hope to see ye there! Yoldran

November 2, Friday

Answers - Important story for the lore - Videric

The Next scenario story has been submitted, it can be read at BNN or here. Do note that the following story is very important to the lore, even if our characters might not yet know the facts of the story: Answers History section been updated slightly as well, to reflect the information given.

November 1, Thursday

Third Annual Spiritwood Anniversary Festival! - Elv'eng

I recived this from Spiritwood: It has been three long and action packed years but here we now stand, on the threshold of yet another exciting season. That’s a right friends from across the realm, it is time once again for Europa’s most famous community to throw its doors wide open and welcome you all to join us in a grand celebration of the season, it is time once again for the Third Annual Spiritwood Anniversary Festival! The Famed Spiritwood Festival is a party for the whole of the realm of Europa and all who come in peace are welcome to join in this celebration of our shared community. The festivities shall take place in and around the player run town of Spiritwood, which is located in its ancient home just across the water from Skara Brae, in the lands of Felucca. Come one come all and share with us this grand tradition. Join us in the many events and tests of luck we have planned for this year, met old friends and make new ones or simply drink yourself silly on the best ale in the realm served by the ever willing staff of Britannia’s most famous watering hole, ye Old Spiritwood Tavern. This year’s celebrations promise something for everyone, so don’t miss out. Get yourself over to Skara Brae Felucca, pop over to Spiritwood and join us on this coming Sunday, the 4th of November starting at 7 pm UK time, (that’s 20:00 CET for our continental friends). Here is a programme of this year’s festival: 7 UK, (20:00 CET)- Town Trivia- Festival Opening and first event, hosted by the Knights of Virtue, come and try your luck at the Spiritwood Town Trivia Treasure Hunt! Gather up in front of the Spiritwood Tavern and try your luck at solving a series of puzzles and riddles that will take you all over the town seeking answers to the history of the community. There will be a special prize for the clever contestant able to complete the challenge and answer all of the puzzles before the event ends. 8 UK, (21:00 CET)- Grand Tournament- Two tests of skill at arms brought to you by the eternal Custodes Fati guild. The first test shall be a Great Joust for all you iron clad warriors out there. Gather on the rooftop of the Ravens Spire Tower in south Spiritwood and tests your skill in a series of set piece contests against some of the boldest warriors of the realm. Or- if you are more inclined towards the noble art of hand-to-hand combat, join us atop the tower of the Custodes Fati for the Wrestling Competition. Both events to run simultaneously and as ever, there shall be prizes for the winners as well as the honour of claiming the title of Festival Champion! 9:30 UK, (22:30 CET)- Talent Show- Once again we are pleased to offer all comers the opportunity to show off their creative skills and talents in our Spiritwood Talent Show. This year’s grand entertainment is brought to you by Tarnak of the Executioners Guild, in association with the Custodes and all the citizens of Spiritwood. Gather in the Theatre in the Clouds, atop the Spiritwood Town Hall, and give wing to your literary talents. The focus of the evening’s entertainments shall be Poetry and the Theme of the Poems will be The Virtues. So if you have the gift of the gab, a talent for spinning words, a passion for the art of rhyming verse, or just fancy coming along for a laugh, come join us and share your original work on the Virtues. All are welcome to take part, each contestant shall be allowed no more than five minutes to share their rendition of The Virtues in flowing prose, rhyming couplets, limericks or song. A special prize shall proclaim the winner, (as selected by a panel of three judges) as the Master Wordsmith of the Festival. 10:30 UK, (23:30 CET)- Fashion Show- As a special treat this year, those mavens of style the Knights of Virtue shall be hosting a Winter Fashion Show atop the Town hall in the Theatre in the Clouds. Fancy yourself a sharp dresser? Why not come along and astonish the judges with your outrageous talents? All fashions, periods, ethnic or racial styles and colour combinations welcomed. Special grand prize for the snappiest dresser of the festival! In and around these main events the good folks at the Spiritwood tavern shall be hosting drinking contests, joke telling contests, songs, story telling and an open ended opportunity to renew old friendships, make new ones and share in the celebration of the community we all belong to. All who come in peace to share in the delights of this grand event are of course welcome. So, don’t be shy, come along and join us! To find the lovely town of Spiritwood, start at the Skara Brae docks right outside town. To get across to the main land, simply enter one of the small ferryboats there and say the word “Cross” to the ferryman. Once across on the mainland, go east on the road inland. Take the second road to your right (south, at a crossroads). Keep going south until the road turns eastwards. Keep following it and you will end up in Spiritwood. The walk is short and the neighbourhood pleasant. That’s Sunday, the 4th of November starting at 7 pm UK time, (that’s 20:00 CET We look forward to seeing you all there! Shri, for the Festival Committee, Town of Spiritwood