Difference between revisions of "Volume Nine Issue Twenty-Three"

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VOLUME NINE, NUMBER TWENTY-TWO                                June 8, 2002
+
VOLUME NINE, NUMBER TWENTY-THREE                              June 16, 2002
 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
  
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                           Calendar of Events
 
                           Calendar of Events
 
                             Recent Updates
 
                             Recent Updates
−
          Ancient Era Spotlight: Ancient Nazca and the Andes
+
                    Ancient Era Spotlight: Aztecs
 
                           Recent Q&A Topics
 
                           Recent Q&A Topics
−
                    DID YOU KNOW: Ping & Traceroute
+
                      DID YOU KNOW: EXPEL command
  
 
                               LEGENDITES
 
                               LEGENDITES
 
                             Announcements
 
                             Announcements
 
                               Clan News
 
                               Clan News
−
                Sweet Dreams are Made of This, Part 5
+
                    And with that, he was gone...
−
                      Hitch Your Wagon to a Star
 
−
                    You Only Deliver Twice, Part 2
 
 
___                                                                  ___
 
___                                                                  ___
 
\  |-----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
 
\  |-----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
Line 42: Line 40:
 
   '-----------------------------------------------------------------'
 
   '-----------------------------------------------------------------'
  
−
I was thinking about what to write here last night as I was fixing dinner.
+
Sorry for the delay in getting this issue out, but things have been crazy
−
I went to put something on the table when it hit me -- or rather, I
+
around here lately. Summer and disrupted schedules just seem together.
−
stepped on it. Legos! Big chunky ones! Suddenly it all snapped into
 
−
painfully-clear, throbbing points on the soul of my feet.
 
  
−
All MUDs are made up of lots of little building blocks. Some moreso than
+
I've noticed a little confusion over the "In-Progress Areas" section of
−
others and some are made up of blocks where the colors just clash so
+
the RECENT UPDATES section here and I'd like to clarify just what that
−
garishly you can't look at it for very long. But learning how to make use
+
section shows. It is not a particularly accurate indicator of progress on
−
of those blocks is what makes you successful at the game.
+
an area.
  
−
Now, I'm not just talking about the ovbious ones that make up the
+
Some weeks a builder might make a couple little additions/changes and do
−
landscape (rooms), and provide players with the means to advance their
+
what is called a "commit" of the file (that's techincal speak for saved a
−
characters (mobs, items, skills and spells). But rather, I mean EVERY
+
copy on the mud machine so they wouldn't lose it). Other weeks, they might
−
single command and function within the server code. It all fits together
+
be busy making lots of changes and additions to their file but might not
−
to form one large, cohesive work that hopefully players find fun and
+
commit it because they've run into a problem and it won't load yet. Or
−
entertaining. Whether it's exploring, socializing, mobkill or pkill.
+
they may have forgotten to do it.
  
−
While it's true, we haven't added, moved or changed many visible blocks
+
So, just because you don't see a given area listed every week, it doesn't
−
lately, we have been shifting things below the surface and some not-so
+
mean that it isn't being worked on, it just means I didn't get a little
−
high profile blocks. But things also haven't been at a dead stand-still,
+
email from the mud machine saying a commit had been made.
−
which is a good thing.
 
  
−
Anyway, to take this analogy where I was originally headed with it...
+
If you're curious about the building projects that are out there, you can
 +
visit http://www.legendmud.org/kaige/deptgoals.shtml#BUILDING and scroll
 +
down to the "Projects to Support Goals" section and see who's doing what.
 +
Again, the in progress areas are at various stages and their listing does
 +
not guarantee completion.  
  
−
What do the PLAYERS do with all these blocks and tools that are provided
+
That page also lists coding and pr projects as well, so if you're curious
−
for them? Some play nicely and use them as they were intended. They get
+
about any of them, bring your questions to the next Q&A on Thursday at 6pm
−
satisfaction from playing this way. That's fine; that's great! But these
+
system time.
−
aren't going to be the people you hear complaining.
 
−
 
 
−
What about the people who have convinced themselves that all they're
 
−
holding is square pegs and the only places to put them are round holes?
 
−
Yes, these are the ones you're going to hear most. It doesn't seem to help
 
−
show them where the square holes are, or even how to take the tools
 
−
they've got available and take and reshape their pegs so they do fit.
 
−
 
 
−
I saw an interesting post on a MUD-Development list recently talking about
 
−
PK and perceptions that it was dead on another mud. "The players who think
 
−
'PK is dead' are inevitably the players who are much more interested in
 
−
bullying people than in using PK as a roleplaying tool. They like to
 
−
engage in that ridiculous age-old MUD tradition of whining that the past
 
−
was better." This mud usually sees about 1400 characters log in per day
 
−
and saw 16679 PK deaths in the previous month. They also have some serious
 
−
rules that go with who/where/how you can pkill. Bully? Kinda harsh, huh?
 
−
 
 
−
It was interesting to compare and contrast that with what I've seen
 
−
recently here on Legend. The clans that have more interest in RP are
 
−
better organized and more willing to work with each other to use the tools
 
−
available to them and still experience pkill much the way they would have
 
−
before, but without the disruptive elements that came with oldstyle pk.
 
−
 
 
−
The 'old-school' pkillers seem to be more interested in personal and
 
−
almost OOC vengeance against anyone who attacks them. Seeking an eye for
 
−
an eye (with interest, if possible) type revenge. Many claim they don't
 
−
care about dying, but just listen to them holler and berate other people
 
−
if they find themselves without the upperhand. Hmmm... sounds like a bully.
 
−
 
 
−
Boo's append on the war board, "The so called 'elite' pkillers didn't tuck
 
−
tail and run. They just found a mud better suited for their pkilling
 
−
tastes. A mud where you can curse, loot, multi, group kill, and most
 
−
importantly, actually pkill because everyone is pkillable." brings that to
 
−
light better than I could explain it.
 
−
 
 
−
It also shows why when the suggestion is made to recreate oldstyle pkill
 
−
by simply forming two or more pkill clans that only accept each other, I
 
−
keep hearing how much effort it would be and how it's more organization
 
−
than they want. All it would take would be 12-16 characters (meaning about
 
−
6-8 players) and a meeting time to form the clans. After that, as long as
 
−
the people were interested in making it work, it wouldn't require much
 
−
organization. But for that type of player, clans don't mean anything,
 
−
because they aren't looking for meaning, only a means to prove they're
 
−
king of the hill.
 
−
 
 
−
So maybe the effort they're talking about is actually in getting out of
 
−
the inn/ooc and making the first move. Or figuring out just who it is you
 
−
can attack. Or, just maybe, it's in actually trying to fight against
 
−
someone who's just as skilled and experienced as you are, instead of
 
−
picking on the new kid on the scene.
 
−
 
 
−
PKOK didn't really changed the basic building blocks of PKILL, but it did
 
−
provide more tools for the players to use. I've been approached several
 
−
times and told 'If you'd only have sat the few bad apples down and
 
−
explained the rules to them!' Well the continuous sitting down with people
 
−
and their various disputes is what led to PKOK as many of the immorts
 
−
didn't want to do away with it completely, but wanted to provide more
 
−
tools to the players.
 
−
 
 
−
I personally believe the fact that more players are now willing to enable
 
−
their characters and participate as they wish, is a good thing. More
 
−
people gaining pkill experience of ANY kind, means more people who are
 
−
potential opponents. You just have to play your cards right and make sure
 
−
you're a desirable opponent too.
 
  
 
-Kaige
 
-Kaige
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                         30
 
                         30
 
    
 
    
−
Wednesday, June    12th  9:00 pm          "Pankration" PK Tourney
+
Wednesday, June    19th  9:00 pm   Ancient Level to 5 Contest
−
Thursday,  June    13th  6:00 pm          Q & A in the OOC Auditorium
+
Thursday,  June    20th  6:00 pm   Q & A in the OOC Auditorium
−
Saturday,  June    15th  4:00 pm          Ancient Trivia with LadyAce
+
Wednesday, June    26th  9:00 pm   Randomized Limericks, Ancient Style
−
Wednesday, June    19th  9:00 pm         Ancient Level to 5 Contest
+
Thursday,  June    27th  6:00 pm   Q & A in the OOC Auditorium
−
Thursday,  June    20th  6:00 pm         Q & A in the OOC Auditorium
 
−
Wednesday, June    26th  9:00 pm         Wednesday Night Game, TBA
 
−
Thursday,  June    27th  6:00 pm         Q & A in the OOC Auditorium
 
  
 
___                                                                  ___
 
___                                                                  ___
Line 169: Line 101:
 
     /\                        CODE UPDATES
 
     /\                        CODE UPDATES
 
   /  \     
 
   /  \     
−
   /    \    The following code changes are slated to go in as soon as we
+
   /    \    BALANCE CHANGES
−
  /_    _\   can find and fix the problem that crashed us three times when
+
  /_    _\   o Lesser Elementals can no longer be taken out of their
−
   |  |     we did the update on Friday. These may go in sooner than next
+
   |  |       element (see the help their files for details). Greater
−
   |  |    Friday. Keep an eye on the welcome board for more news.
+
   |  |       Elementals are hurt while they spend time out of their
 +
  |  |        element.
 +
  |__|      o Weather now affects elementals.
 +
     /\      o Create Mages can now control fewer charmies at a time. The
 +
  /  \        more charmies they have, the less chance they have to be
 +
  /    \      able to control another
 +
/_    _\    o Animate dead hp formula modified
 
   |  |     
 
   |  |     
−
   |__|    BALANCE CHANGES
+
   | |    MISC CHANGES
−
     /\       o Lesser Elementals can no longer be taken out of their
+
  |  |      o Items in housing now save differently. Both you and the
−
   /  \       element (see the help their files for details). Greater
+
  |__|        house should now save every time you drop or take items
−
   /    \       Elementals are hurt while they spend time out of their
+
     /\         from a house.
−
  /_    _\     element.
+
   /  \     o Grumpy mood added
−
   |  |     o Weather now affects elementals.
+
   /    \     o "it's dead" part of the poke social is no longer there.
−
   |  |      o Create Mages can now control fewer charmies at a time. The
+
  /_    _\  
−
   |  |       more charmies they have, the less chance they have to be
+
   |  |     BUG FIXES
−
   |__|       able to control another
+
   |  |      o Healing rate while kneeling fixed.
−
     /\      o Animate dead hp formula modified
+
   |  |     o The inventory order reversal is fixed
 +
   |__|     o Some charmies never intended as combatants no longer fight
 +
     /\      o You no longer save whenever you take something out of a bag
 
   /  \     
 
   /  \     
−
   /    \    MISC CHANGES
+
   /    \     
−
  /_    _\   o Items in housing now save differently. Both you and the
+
  /_    _\                     HELP FILE UPDATES       
−
  |  |        house should now save every time you drop or takes from a
 
−
  |  |        house.
 
−
  |  |      o Grumpy mood
 
−
  |__|      o "it's dead" part of the poke social is no longer there.
 
−
    /\     
 
−
  /  \   
 
−
  /    \                      HELP FILE UPDATES       
 
−
/_    _\ 
 
−
  |  |    The following helpfiles were recently updated:
 
 
   |  |     
 
   |  |     
−
   |  |       ARCHIVING, CATALOG, CLANS, COMBAT, COMPRESSION, CONNECTION,
+
   |  |    The following helpfile was recently updated:
−
  |__|      EMOTE, EXPEL, GUN, HARNESS, HELP, HOUSING, IMMORT, INDUCT,
 
−
     /\        INSTALL, KILL, LEGENDS-PAST, LOOT, MAKE BANDAGE, NETLAG,
 
−
  /  \      NEWBIE, NEWS, PING, PKILL, QUESTS, REDEEM, REJECTGIVES,
 
−
  /    \      RENT, SHOPS, SIT, STATS, SUMMARY, TALK, TRACEROUTE, TUMBLE,
 
−
/_    _\    and XP
 
 
   |  |     
 
   |  |     
−
   | |    Thanks to all the players & imms who assisted in this update!
+
   |__|         QandA
 +
     /\     
 +
  /  \     
 +
  /    \                        SUMMER ODYSSEY   
 +
/_    _\                    ANCIENT ERA UPDATES
 
   |  |     
 
   |  |     
−
   |__|     
+
  |  |    If you want to suggest specific improvements or new additions
−
     /\                         SUMMER ODYSSEY
+
  |  |    to existing areas please don't hesitate to submit them with
−
   /  \                       ANCIENT ERA UPDATES
+
   |__|    the idea/bug/typo commands or drop mudmail to the builder
 +
    /\      currently responsible for the area (check AREAINFO to find
 +
  /  \    out!) And don't limit ideas to just these three months!
 +
  /    \   
 +
/_    _\  AZTECS
 +
  |  |          A couple of new mobs, a few new items. Shuffles the
 +
  |  |          levels of some mobs around. So be careful and consider
 +
  |  |          everything. Two new quests, one of which is a separate
 +
  |__|          quest for male characters to balance the female only one.
 +
     /\           Adds in random names for most of the general mobs and
 +
   /  \         dresses them appropriately. Various bug & typo fixes.
 
   /    \     
 
   /    \     
−
  /_    _\  If you want to suggest specific improvements or new additions
+
  /_    _\  ANCIENT INDIA
−
   | |    to existing areas please don't hesitate to submit them with
+
  |  |          Karna and regal ksatriyas and dhurtahs altered.
−
   |  |    the idea/bug/typo commands or drop mudmail to the builder
+
  |  |          Shopkeepers sell necessities. Sanjaya hopefully won't
−
   |  |    currently responsible for the area (check AREAINFO to find
+
  |  |          repeat story, priests return to ring eventually, some
−
   |__|     out!) And don't limit ideas to just these three months!
+
   |__|         cleanup of the friendship quest (will stop attacking and
 +
     /\          actually leave when supposed to), No more dhaksha leaf
 +
  /  \          buildup. Arjuna now slays those that pick up Godiva when
 +
  /    \        they shouldn't (as intended). Forage items added with
 +
/_    _\        custom items on battlefield. Various bugs & typos fixed.
 +
   |  |     
 +
   |  |    ANCIENT NAZCA, ARABIAN NIGHTS, BEOWULF, CELTIC IRELAND, ROMAN   
 +
  |  |    BRITAIN and PICTISH COUNTRY
 +
   |__|         Various bugs and typos fixed.
 
     /\       
 
     /\       
−
   /  \    ANCIENT NAZCA
+
   /  \     
−
   /    \         New mobs and some new items. Shuffles the levels of some
+
   /    \                     Other Area Updates
−
  /_    _\       mobs around. Be careful and consider everything. You can
+
  /_    _\  
−
   |  |         fall from the natural rock bridge in the Andes. Adds in
+
   |  |     FRENCH & INDIAN WAR
−
   |  |          forage items. Anything with a hunt act checks if they
+
   |  |          Hopefully, fixes the beluga overpopulation problem once
−
   |  |          need a boat/fly/lost trail/not enough room and gives up.    
+
   |  |          and for all. Various bugs and typos fixed.
 
   |__|     
 
   |__|     
−
     /\      ARABIAN NIGHTS
+
     /\      HOSPITALLER MALTA
−
   /  \          Typo fix on the new cushions for housing and adds them to
+
   /  \          If you can leave customs, you can go ooc.
−
  /    \        some housing rooms. Anything with a hunt act checks if
 
−
/_    _\        they need a boat/fly/lost trail/not enough room and gives
 
−
  |  |          up and walks home. Typo fixes.
 
−
  |  |   
 
−
  |  |    ROMAN BRITAIN, PICTISH COUNTRY
 
−
  |__|          Anything with a hunt act checks if they need a
 
−
    /\          boat/fly/lost trail/not enough room and gives up and
 
−
  /  \          walks home.
 
 
   /    \     
 
   /    \     
−
  /_    _\  ANCIENT GREECE
+
  /_    _\  SHERWOOD
−
   |  |          Anything with a hunt act checks if they need a
+
   |  |          Double checks that you can't rent if you're fighting at
−
   |  |          boat/fly/lost trail/not enough room and gives up and
+
   |  |          the Stag or Salutation & are allowed to rent there.
−
   |  |          walks home. The smith and boatmaker have different long
+
   |  |          Black Knight returns to his spot. Various bugs & typos
−
   |__|          descriptions when they're open/closed.
+
   |__|          fixed.
 
     /\       
 
     /\       
−
   /  \    ANCIENT INDIA
+
   /  \    1802 ALASKA, THE ALHAMBRA, MEDIEVAL SEAS, PARIS OPERA HOUSE,
−
   /    \         Dhurtah checks if they need a boat/fly/lost trail/not
+
   /    \   and TORTUGA
−
  /_    _\        enough room and gives up and walks home when hunting.
+
  /_    _\        Various bugs and typos fixed.
−
  |  |          Shops that sell herbs sell even numbers of them.
 
 
   |  |     
 
   |  |     
−
   |  |     CELTIC IRELAND, SHADOWLANDS
+
   |  |                   In Progress Area Updates  
−
  |__|          Anything with a hunt act checks if they need a
 
−
    /\          boat/fly/lost trail/not enough room and gives up and
 
−
  /  \          walks home. A couple minor typos fixed.
 
−
  /    \   
 
−
/_    _\                    Other Area Updates
 
 
   |  |     
 
   |  |     
−
   | |    1802 ALASKA
+
   |__|    This section is intended to let everyone know what builders
−
  |  |          Andreev's AC was the opposite of what it should have been
+
     /\     are working on behind the scenes. It is not a perfect record
−
  |__|          and has fixed, so he may be a bit different in fights
+
   /  \     of progress as all builders will not make updates every week.
−
     /\           now. Walrus should have a tusk more often now if you've
+
   /    \    Players badgering builders about progress or a perceived lack
−
   /  \         already started the quest. Various bugs and typos fixed.
+
  /_    _\  thereof will be flogged. Remember, the longer spent answering
−
   /    \     
+
   |  |     questions, the longer the project takes to complete.
−
  /_    _\  FRENCH & INDIAN WAR
 
−
  |  |          Belugas shouldn't be quite so numerous. Multiple tallow
 
−
   |  |         candles confusion resolved at the candlemakers.
 
 
   |  |     
 
   |  |     
−
   |__|    HOSPITALLER MALTA
+
   |  |             Bart        Paris Expansion
−
    /\          Typo fix on one of the roses. Crumbled/crumpled.
+
   |__|             Cheyla      1802 Alaska Expansion
−
  / \   
+
 
−
  /    \    MELBOURNE
 
−
/_    _\        Fixes some bugs, primarily with gold assayer.
 
−
  | |   
 
−
  |  |    SAN FRANCISCO
 
−
  |  |          Shortens the long desc on the ballot box.
 
−
   |__|    
 
−
    /\      SHERWOOD
 
−
  /  \          Rivets no longer burn.
 
−
  /    \   
 
−
/_    _\  TORTUGA
 
−
  |  |          Lowers the random on the drumming sound.
 
−
  |  |   
 
−
  |  |    17th CENTURY SALEM, THE ALHAMBRA, THE CRUSADES, SOUTH SEAS
 
−
  |__|          Various typo fixes.
 
−
           
 
 
   ___                                                                  ___
 
   ___                                                                  ___
 
   \  |----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
 
   \  |----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
−
   /__|     Ancient Era Spotlight: Ancient Nazca and the Andes        |__\
+
   /__|             Ancient Era Spotlight: Aztecs                    |__\
 
     '----------------------------------------------------------------'
 
     '----------------------------------------------------------------'
  
−
Friday, June 7, circa 500 AD.
+
Friday, June 14, of the Mexica year Thirteen Rabbit.
 +
 
 +
As I traveled north from the Nazcan Plain, I eventually found myself in
 +
the Quautemalan highlands. The difference from the dry, arid desert to
 +
this lush tropical land was amazing. I narrowly avoided a mudslide one
 +
rainy night, but was otherwise untroubled on my journey.
 +
 
 +
That is until I reached the Tzempuula Mountains. A pair of wild boars were
 +
not so happy that I chose their favorite wallowing hole as a place to stop
 +
and make a meal. However, I like to think that brains won out over brawn
 +
and I am happy to report that I have plenty of roast pork in my sack now.
  
−
Intrigued by the news of that something was happening on and around the
+
Soon, the land turned dry again. But instead of lacking any and all
−
Nazca plain, I decided to let my wandering feet take me that direction.
+
vegetation, this time there were succulents everywhere. There were giant
−
As I approached the coast of Peru, seals and dolphins greeted my ship and
+
ones that loomed over me that reminded me of immense candelabras. And big,
−
followed for a short distance before playfully splashing me and slipping
+
round, prickly ones. The best part, was if you were careful, you could
−
away again in the dark waters.
+
gently pluck the fruit and tender new leaves from between the spines for a
 +
refreshing meal.
  
−
After beaching my ship, and travelling inland over the dry, rocky terrain,
+
I kept venturing north until I reached a large lake with an island in the
−
I came upon a small village. One of the villagers was very hospitable and
+
center of it and outlying villages nestled along the shore. For no reason,
−
bid me to sleep on his spare mats for the night. The next morning, I awoke
+
I first wandered along the west side of the lake. I came across a quarry
−
refreshed, although a bit stiff from sleeping on the ground, ready and
+
where men were removing limestone from the earth and fashioning it into
−
eager to explore the village.
+
crude tools and weapons. A few men sat by with rough hammers and chisels
 +
turning the smaller, useless bits of rock into small statues. I tried to
 +
get one's attention, but he was too focused on his work.
  
−
A young lad carried water back and forth from the river to store in large
+
I continued north along the western shore of the lake. I passed several
−
clay jars. He pointed out the potter's hut to me, saying that he had made
+
fields of maize, beans and melons. I soon came across a group of peasants
−
them. Across from the potter's, I was surprised to find a woman who was
+
who were carrying in loads of fresh, rich soil and dumping them on a raft
−
quite skilled in metalworking. The things she can do to a gold coin!
+
of woven tree limbs and branches hey had moored at the very edge of the
 +
lake. When I greeted them and told them my name, they responded most
 +
strangely. I will try to spell what they said, 'Mixpantzinco Finlaytzin.'
 +
Now do not laugh, it was said with respect. They called their language
 +
'Nahuatl.'
  
−
But all was not well here on the plains. A sickness had stricken many of
+
I asked them about their work and they explained that in the years to
−
the villagers, especially the children. The local shaman was not having
+
come, the roots of maize, beans and chilis and anything else growing there
−
good luck with many of his patients. I asked if I could help, and was sent
+
will reach down through the shallow water and grab hold of older roots and
−
to find a cure high in the Andean mountains to the east.
+
the lake bottom and eventually hold the chinamitl in place. It seemed that
 +
there was not enough arable land otherwise to feed all the people who had
 +
settled here in the valley around the lake.
  
−
After crossing the river, the mountains were teeming with life. A large
+
I continued following the curve of the lake past several villages and came
−
heron stared back curiously as he fished for his supper in the river. As I
+
across a causeway that led out to the island in the middle of the lake. A
−
climbed higher into the mountains, I saw an ocelot hunting chinchillas --
+
pair of brawny Mexica warriors stood there ready to do battle. But after
−
not a pretty sight when they get caught. The herds of wild llamas grazing
+
explaining that I was not looking for trouble, only adventure and to see
−
in the valleys, along the terraced slopes and atop the grassy plateaus
+
the glory of their city, they let me pass.
−
were quite a sight to see.
 
  
−
The mountains can be quite treacherous if you're not careful, the high
+
As I entered the city of Tenochtitlan proper, cockatoos, parrots, and
−
crags and steep rock faces present danger when you least expect it. I
+
parakeets flitted about and small hairless dogs wandered about looking
−
nearly walked off the edge of a cliff before I saw it was there, so caught
+
nervous. Later, I met a young boy with something slung over his shoulder
−
up in the scenery I was. I heard the angry snarl of a a large cat
+
and he explained how those dogs were eaten. Certainly explained why they
−
somewhere nearby and decided that I wasn't going to be its dinner. As I
+
looked so nervous. What ever happened to 'man's best friend'?
−
continued hiking, I came across a hut hidden deep in the mountains. But no
+
−
one was home, so I retraced my steps back to the river.
+
Everywhere I turned in the city, it bustled with life. Men in long dirty
 +
robes wandered about praying to their gods. Fierce warriors patrolled the
 +
streets and men and women went about their business, stopping frequently
 +
to offer a small prayer or offering to their gods at one of the numerous
 +
temples.  
  
−
From there, I passed through the village and headed south into the desert.
+
The most spectacular of these temples was an enormous stone pyramid
−
Miles of long, nearly-straight lines of white rocks created stylized paintings
+
rising out of the center of the city. As I approached the foot of the
−
that could only be properly viewed from a great height. Did these people
+
pyramid, ready to climb the steps, I came across a rack of human skulls on
−
possess some form of air travel -- balloons perhaps? I had seen no evidence of
+
display. Confused by the indifferent but often respectful welcome I had
−
them in the village. Were they pictures for their gods viewing pleasure as
+
gotten from the people here, I continued to make my way to the summit of
−
well as a giant solar calendar? Could be. Seemed the most logical explanation
+
the pyramid.
−
I could come up with. It certainly didn't resemble an industrial airfield!
 
  
−
The hunter, whom I met out in the desert, didn't have any answers either.
+
The view of the city was complete from there. The gentle waters of Lake
−
So I decided that I would return to the village and stay with the man who
+
Texcoco could be seen lapping at the edges of the city. Two temples were
−
had been so hospitable before, and return later to further investigate
+
situated on opposite sides of the summit. The priests milled about trying
−
this land of extremes and mystery.
+
to please their gods. Flies swarmed around dark ominous stains and a raven
 +
flew around cawing ominously.
 +
 
 +
About that time, what appeared to be one of the head priests came out of
 +
the temple for his god and yelled, 'We have need of a sacrifice to please
 +
the god, Huitzilopochtli!' I gulped nervously as he pointed directly at
 +
me. I startled as a savage warrior brushed past me and made his way to a
 +
darkened stone and knelt down beside it. When the high priest pulled out a
 +
knife made of brittle obsidian and I had to turn my head. I just couldn't
 +
watch.
  
 
Finlay, the wanderer.
 
Finlay, the wanderer.
Line 342: Line 288:
  
 
While this area tries to offer something for all levels, characters under
 
While this area tries to offer something for all levels, characters under
−
level 15 are best suited for this area. If you are interested in learning
+
level 20 are best suited for this area. If you are interested in learning
−
more about the Nazcan culture before experiencing it 'firsthand', here are
+
more about the Aztecs culture before experiencing it 'firsthand', here are
 
a few web sites that can get you started:
 
a few web sites that can get you started:
  
−
Nazca Culture and Ancient Civilizations in Peru:
+
Aztecs Culture in Ancient Mexico:
−
   http://emuseum.mnsu.edu/prehistory/latinamerica/south/cultures/nazca.html
+
   http://www.indians.org/welker/aztec.htm
−
   http://www.rain.org/~pjenkin/civiliz/civiliza.html
+
   http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/CIVAMRCA/AZTECS.HTM
−
   http://www.unmuseum.org/nazca.htm
+
   http://atschool.eduweb.co.uk/wickham/topics/aztecs/aztecs.html
−
  http://www.crystalinks.com/nasca.html  
+
   http://www.beautyworlds.com/aztecs.htm
−
   http://www.dreamscape.com/morgana/rosalind.htm  
 
−
 
 
−
Nazca Lines:
 
−
  http://exn.ca/mysticplaces/Nazca.cfm
 
−
  http://nazcalines.homestead.com/
 
−
  http://skepdic.com/nazca.html
 
  
 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Line 372: Line 312:
 
                               RECENT TOPICS
 
                               RECENT TOPICS
  
−
  o Recent Net Problems              o Changes to Elementals
+
  o Housing Limits?                  o Upcoming Odyssey Events?
−
  o Ripping out PKOK/PK Discussion    o Unposted Updates?
+
  o Detect Illusion Item?            o Games & Timing?
−
  o Reject and Accept All            o Sword Sheaths?
+
  o Upcoming Balance Changes?        o Areas: Building vs Coding
−
  o Items Reversing when Renting?     o Where to Report Bugs?
+
  o Tag Team PK Tourney?             o More Recent Time Periods?
−
  o Sniper Changes?                   o More on Elemental Changes
+
  o Ideas for Events                  o Seeing Floorplans before Buying?
 +
o Mob Quotes Trivia Idea
  
 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Line 382: Line 323:
 
   /  _  \  DID YOU KNOW: Tips and tricks and little-used features
 
   /  _  \  DID YOU KNOW: Tips and tricks and little-used features
 
  /__/ \  \   
 
  /__/ \  \   
−
       /  /  Have you ever been unable to connect to Legend for more than
+
       /  /  Ever logged out in a friend's house or clan hall only to come
−
     /  /  an hour? Then when you finally connect again, you wonder if
+
     /  /  back and find the door to the rest of the world locked? Ever
−
     /__/    or why it was down and felt silly about asking on channels?
+
     /__/    gotten sick of that ugly piece of furniture that the immorts
−
     __       
+
     __      just had to include with the room in your house? Ever had
−
   /  \    Sometimes it is a problem with Legend's game server -- the
+
   /  \    someone come pester you in your house and overstayed their
−
   \__/    game hung for a while before it crashed or crashed repeatedly
+
   \__/    welcome?
−
   _____    before it came back up. The TIME command lists when the mud
+
   _____     
−
   /  _  \  last started up, beneath the moon phase line. This will show
+
   /  _  \  The EXPEL command may be very useful to you in these or other
−
  /__/ \  \  whether the mud has restarted recently when you get online.
+
  /__/ \  \  situations.  
 
       /  /   
 
       /  /   
−
     /  /  Sometimes, it is a network problem. There are generally
+
     /  /  EXPEL SELF will get you out of someone else's house. Very
−
    /__/    multiple machines between yours and the mud machine. If one of
+
     /__/         handy if you log in and the door's locked and you want
−
    __      these machines has a problem, you may not be able to connect
+
     __           to play. No immortal help is needed in this situation.
−
  /  \    or experience lag when others aren't. Also, people coming in
+
   /  \     
−
  \__/     along a different network path may be able to connect while
+
   \__/    EXPEL <item> pushes the item out the door and unowns it. You
−
  _____    you cannot.
+
   _____         can also use EXPEL ALL Y to move out all of the objects
−
  /  _  \ 
+
   /  _  \       in your house (this is similar to what happens when a
−
/__/ \  \  So how do you tell the difference while you are sitting there
+
  /__/ \  \       house is repossessed -- it's all dumped to the street --
−
      /  /  hoping to connect (or re-connect if you lost link)? If you
+
       /  /       so you want to use that command with caution.
−
    /  /  eventually reconnect, then you know the game didn't crash --
 
−
    /__/    it was purely a network issue. Depending on your operating
 
−
     __     system and access, you may be able to use some tools, such as
 
−
   /  \    ping and traceroute, that can help determine if the problem is
 
−
   \__/    network-related or not.
 
−
  _____   
 
−
  /  _  \  Unix-flavored systems generally can use these from the
 
−
/__/ \  \  command-prompt. Windows may not have support depending on the
 
−
      /  /  version - from a command window, the commands are ping and
 
−
    /  /  tracert. Macs may or may not have the commands, depending on
 
−
    /__/    the version - OSX has the commands from your Darwin shell. For
 
−
    __      older MacOS systems, there are apps available that will
 
−
  /  \    perform these functions.
 
−
  \__/   
 
−
   _____   Ping basically checks to see if the host can be found and
 
−
   /  _  \   how long it takes to get a response. The basic command is:
 
−
  /__/ \  \
 
−
       /  /     ping legendmud.org 
 
 
     /  /   
 
     /  /   
−
     /__/    You may have to use the command: ping -c 4 legendmud.org if
+
     /__/    EXPEL <persongt; allows the owner or clan member to be rid of
−
    __      you get an unending string of responses or an error message.
+
     __           unwelcome guests (mobs included). This command does
−
  /  \      
+
   /  \         adhere to the pkill restrictive timer. If the person is
−
  \__/    Traceroute (or tracert in windows) returns information for
+
   \__/         being troublesome, you may want to lock the door first.
−
   _____    every hop between you and the host - so it should display the
 
−
  / _ \   path across the net from your machine to the mud machine and
 
−
/__/ \  \  the amount of time it took for a response. If there is a
 
−
      /  /  problem along the way, this could be causing your connection
 
−
    /  /  problem (or your lag!).
 
−
    /__/   
 
−
    __      For more information on these commands, see HELP PING and HELP
 
−
  /  \    TRACEROUTE while online. You should also read HELP CONNECTION,
 
−
   \__/     HELP NETLAG and HELP REIMBURSE. Stay within your rent limit!
 
  
 
   ___                                                                  ___
 
   ___                                                                  ___
Line 439: Line 353:
 
     '----------------------------------------------------------------'
 
     '----------------------------------------------------------------'
  
−
              Kastina has reached 300 million experience!
+
              Nietzsche has reached 500 million experience!
−
              Sigrid has reached 200 million experience!
+
  ___                                                                  ___
 +
  \  |----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
 +
  /__|                        Clan News                              |__\
 +
    '----------------------------------------------------------------'
 +
 
 +
            The Amazons clan was disbanded for low membership.
 +
                The Dark Lord's Elite clan ws disbanded.
  
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
  
−
A small piece of paper slipped under the door of our office had the following
+
                      Freedom Fighters Recruiting
−
written on it:
 
  
−
          I have left the Knights of Legend, because they have
+
      We are a clan who are dedicated to making the world easier to
−
          disgraced the name of the Knights of the old. I will
+
      live in for everybody who deserves it... and sometimes for those
−
          still uphold the code that the Knigts of Old used and
+
      who can afford it :P
−
          act as one. I will be open to any challenges and not
 
−
          afraid of any fair fight that is brought to me.
 
  
−
          I no longer will be known as 'a solemn knight cloaked
+
      We strive for a greater freedom, freedom from the capitalistic
−
          in shadows.' Nor will you see me as 'An
+
      scum who assume everything should be payed for.
−
          innocent-looking knight stands here, surrounded by a
 
−
          shroud of sorrow.'
 
  
−
          I wish to be known as Sir Delandel, Knight of the 'Old
+
            So, if you think you can be helpful in any way...  
−
          Code' and seen as 'An old and hardened knight struggles
 
−
          to find the source of what was once good.'
 
  
−
          Sincerely, Sir Delandel.
+
                    The Freedom Fighters want YOU!
  
−
One wonders which version of the Knight's Code, Isam is in possession of,
+
            For more information or interviews contact Wyth.
−
and who will be on a crusade to retrieve it. Perhaps Sir Delandel won't
 
−
have to search far?
 
  
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
  
−
                            Heritage
+
As if Omni's scrawled writing on the wall warning Marcel that a movement
 +
is growing against him wasn't enough proof, the following scrap of paper
 +
was found slipped under our door:
  
−
After countless hours of tedious study, High Lord Rahvin has discovered
+
            Lord Marcel -
−
his true heritage and title, and has accepted his surname. He shall now be
+
           
−
known as Lord Rahvin von Darkmoor.
+
            You prolly already know this...but Omni is trying to
−
 
+
            grab pledges and take over the clan as Czar. Just
−
  ___                                                                  ___
+
            thought you would wanna know if you didn't already.
−
  \  |----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
+
           
−
  /__|                        Clan News                              |__\
+
            - Celes
−
    '----------------------------------------------------------------'
+
           
−
 
+
                          -------------------
−
        The Insane Asylum clan was disbanded on Friday, June 7th.
+
           
−
 
+
            Ooh, the sweet competition that lets the strong
−
Tacked up outside the now boarded up hospital was this notice:
+
            prosper and the weak perish. I applaud her effort --
−
 
+
            and I will enjoy watching her pride's downfall all
−
          Several of our institution's wardens staged a mutiny,
+
            the more!
−
          and since then staff numbers have been steadily in
+
           
−
          decline. As it was unsafe to continue treating mental
+
            Marcel Alexander,
−
          patients with the staff on hand it was decided
+
            Esquire
−
          unanimously that we discontinue operations and refer
 
−
          current patients to other services.
 
−
 
 
−
          I apologize for any inconvenience this causes.
 
−
 
 
−
          Sincerely,
 
−
          EiSA
 
−
 
 
−
              =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
  
−
The Syndicate seems to be in possession of one of the IRA flags. Sandman
+
Just how much trouble is brewing within the Seven Circles? We'll just have
−
was seen spitting on it in disgust. When asked asked about it, he said,
+
to wait and see.
−
'Any IRA can come reclaim this crappy flag.. but til then its mine =p.'
 
  
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
  
−
Every PK Clan had at least one member participating in the pk scene this
+
The Grendels had the most members active this week. They were closely
−
week! The IRA had the most active members this past week with the Grendels
+
followed by the IRA, the Knights of Legend and the Mercenaries. The Grand
−
close behind. The Grand Coven had the next highest number of members who
+
Coven's and the Hermetic Order's members also saw some action this week.
−
were active in PK. The rest of the clans showed little activity on the PK
+
The Syndicate recruited a new member in the nick of time and managed to
−
front with the Hermetics being the quietest.
+
see some action as well. The Dark Enforcers were laying low and not heard
 +
from this week. One wonders if the Dark Lord's power and charisma fades.
  
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
  
−
There were 56 pkill deaths in the last week, so come on, let's get YOUR
+
There were 48 pkill deaths in the last week, so come on, let's get YOUR
 
name up in lights! Have you witnessed/commited any glorious or nefarious
 
name up in lights! Have you witnessed/commited any glorious or nefarious
 
deeds? Send a short report to us at the LT. If you are looking for a
 
deeds? Send a short report to us at the LT. If you are looking for a
Line 523: Line 427:
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
   
 
   
−
There are currently 17 RP clans and 8 PK clans. This leaves open slots for
+
There are currently 15 RP clans and 8 PK clans. This leaves open slots for
−
seven (7) more clans to form. For more information, read HELP CLAN and see
+
nine (9) more clans to form. For more information, read HELP CLAN and see
 
the clan information list via the CLANS command while logged into the game.
 
the clan information list via the CLANS command while logged into the game.
 
For a basic handbook and reference for players interested in founding and
 
For a basic handbook and reference for players interested in founding and
Line 538: Line 442:
 
__|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|
 
__|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|
  
−
                Sweet Dreams are Made of This, Part 5
+
                        And with that, he was gone...
−
 
 
−
He faded into consciousness to the sound of voices. He sat up, terrified,
 
−
thinking the villagers had found him again... but these voices were
 
−
different, unusual. They muttered, they whispered, they screamed, not one
 
−
voice like any of the others.
 
−
 
 
−
Then one voice burbled 'Once-mortal... why are you here?. Nathan looked
 
−
around, trying to find the source of the voice, when the question was
 
−
hissed at him 'What are you. Once-mortal, speak... What brings you here?'
 
−
 
 
−
Looking around frantically, he shouted 'I donb�t know. I was being beaten,
 
−
for something I couldnb�t help. Who are you??'
 
−
 
 
−
The voices seemed to retreat, as if discussing something, then yet another
 
−
voice, sounding like it was right next to him, screeched 'You should not
 
−
have been in that world... you did not belong... Here, you belong,
 
−
once-mortal. The land of dreams...'
 
−
 
 
−
'My name is Nathan,' he yelled at the voices, angry and afraid, 'Why do
 
−
you keep calling me once-mortal?!?'
 
  
−
An emotionless voice intoned, 'That is not your name... You are not
+
MoiraGwyn turned a cold shoulder, 'Don't you even look at me after all
−
mortal... you are not who you say you are... who are you. What are you.
+
that drama. Shame on you!'
−
You belong in the world of dreams, not in the land of flesh. Who are you,
 
−
once-mortal?'
 
  
−
He realized that they could somehow see everything about him... and by
+
Sparky turned away, resting across the room, on the floor. He moaned
−
what they said, he wasnb�t human anymore. He thought about this, as voices
+
quietly.
−
danced about him, laughing, crying, singing 'Who are you. Who are you?
 
−
What are you, living dream man? Remembering a conversation with the wizard
 
−
that had happened a while before the experiment, he remembered a word the
 
−
wizard had used for dreams and the things that lived there... and so he
 
−
answered.
 
  
−
'I am Chimaera.'
+
King Rowane watched the scene quietly, from the doorway. He was grateful
 +
to be home and this was the last thing he expected to find. What was going
 +
on?
  
−
The voices paused, and one spoke to him, sounding frightened, 'You are
+
'Love?' Queen MoiraGwyn turned at the sound of Rowane's voice. She turned,
−
true. We shall take you somewhere that you can grow and learn about
+
rushing into his awaiting arms.
−
yourself. A place where you will not be feared as you were, but where you
 
−
can become more of yourself. Learn, learn and return to us to teach us...
 
−
teach us of the world of flesh, where we may not tread.'
 
  
−
'I will. Take me there, or show me the way, and I will go,' he spoke,
+
'Rowane, I am so glad you are home,' She buried her face to his neck, her
−
confused but relieved to be free of the taunting questions, the incessant
+
arms wrapped tightly about him. 'I missed you so very much.'
−
barrage of voices driving him to the now-crumbling edges of his sanity.
 
  
−
Each night, he returned to the world of dreams... teaching, learning,
+
The King rocked his wife in his arms, nuzzling her cheek gently.
−
being changed by the presence of the dreams, even occasionally looking
 
−
into the dreams of his wife and daughter to make sure they were safe and
 
−
the wizardb�s bargain kept... .and in the strangeness growing in his mind,
 
−
he learned one truth... a truth that would shape the rest of his life...
 
  
−
Some dreams... are nightmares.
+
'I missed you too. More than you could imagine.'
  
−
              =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
+
His gaze fell upon the face of his wife, her brow still a bit furrowed.
 +
She seemed upset.
  
−
                      Hitch Your Wagon to a Star
+
'What is that I saw, between you and Sparky? Is something wrong? He didn't
 +
misbehave again did he?'
  
−
On a peaceful evening outside of Klein, two figures sat watching the
+
He prepared to scold their potentially misbehaving salamander.
−
stars. One turned to the other and asked 'Some say that the stars tell
 
−
stories... is that true?' The other pondered and replied 'Some do.'
 
  
−
She pointed upwards to a box shaped patterns of stars in the sky.
+
MoiraGwyn frowned in the direction of their pet. She turned away from her
 +
husband, unable to face him.
  
−
'The Great Wagon... and see, if you follow the stars on the right side
+
'He doesn't like me,' She said quietly.
−
of the wagon, they lead to that star...that's the star that's constant.'
 
  
−
The other looked, and then pointed to one group of stars that looked like
+
Rowane raised an eyebrow at his wifes words, 'What? Of course he does. Why
−
a giant ladle.
+
do you think otherwise?'
  
−
'The slaves called it the drinking gourd... they used it to find 'north.'
+
'He would rather be off with that.. that DRUNKARD! He has not been the
 +
same with me since the incident... I do not think he wants to be with us
 +
anymore,' Her face fell, tears welling in her eyes.
  
−
Moira nodded solemnly and tried to remember whether that star was the nose
+
'He does not bound over when he sees me. He does not scamper about when he
−
or the tail of the Little Bear. Or was it the Little Rabbit? The Little
+
knows we are to go for a walk. He... he does not even come to cuddle or be
−
Ferret?
+
petted.' She hang her head. Unable to control them, tears came forth to
 +
streak her cheeks.
  
−
Ever so nonchalantly, Asher took her hand and asked 'What is the story of
+
'My fragile flower... Did he do something to hurt your feelings?' He
−
the Great Wagon?'
+
cradled his wife to him, kissing the top of her head.
  
−
She pondered. She had heard something about a great wagon story a while
+
King Rowane looked at Sparky. His gaze turned thoughtful.
−
back. Maybe from her grandmother?
 
  
−
She stalled. 'Well, there are several versions....'
+
'Come here, boy.'
  
−
And then plunged in....
+
Sparky turned his head in the direction of his masters voice but seemed
 +
reluctant to move towards it.
  
−
'Once there was a group of smugglers. If you go through one of those time
+
Rowane stared quietly at his pet.
−
portals, and go back to my village, you find that the land is all in great
 
−
farms owned by people from across the water. And my tribesmen, kinsmen,
 
−
they farm it for the owners.'
 
  
−
'Now, the people from across the water rule all the land and waters around
+
'Darling, I think there is something more to Sparky's problems than
−
it,' you say. Their Queen charges for everything that is brought in and
+
alcohol.' He wrapped an arm around his wife, bringing her with him to walk
−
out.'
+
towards Sparky.
  
−
Moira pondered for a moment.
+
Rowane knelt besides the salamander, reaching out to pet him. Sparky's
 +
eyes moved to meet the Kings gaze. It seemed to MoiraGwyn as if the two
 +
were having some sort of conversation that she could somehow not hear.
 +
Feeling even more left out, she went to turn away.
  
−
'I think the word is 'tarrif.''
+
'Love, don't be like that,' Rowane reached a hand out to his lifemate.
 +
Fingers stroking along her arm, he beckoned her to rest beside him. She
 +
did.
  
−
Asher nodded and muttered to himself 'Feudalism in its infancy.' He
+
Rowane's voice dropped to a quiet whisper.
−
helpfully noted 'Yes, a tax on what is bought or sold.'
 
  
−
Moira continued.
+
'After the run in with McDougan, has a closer eye been kept on Sparky and
 +
what he eats and drinks?'
  
−
'They are a different tribe...many different tribes. And my kinspeople
+
MoiraGwyn nodded quietly.
−
hate them. Evey so often, they burn one of the owners' castles. Given that
 
−
they used to burn the next villages' mud huts, I'm not sure things have
 
−
changed that much. And so they try not to pay the..taxes, as you call
 
−
them, because they don't want the owners' Queen to have the money.'
 
  
−
'So anyway, there was a smugglers ship. She was called the Light Dawn. At
+
'His listlessness has remained and he has not improved?'
−
least in the variation I heard . . . fastest ship there ever was. And she
 
−
was the pride of the coast.'
 
  
−
'One night, becuase she always sailed at night with no lights, the load
+
'He has been like this... I dont know why, just that he doesnt seem to
−
was particularly large with some cargo.'
+
like us...'
  
−
She paused a moment.
+
Rowane picked up Sparky. With a soft hand, he examined the belly and
 +
throat of Sparky, then looked inide his mouth. He seems to ponder. He
 +
pressed with the softest pressure along what he felt might be a swollen
 +
tummy. Sparky emitted a small moan.
  
−
'They never say what it was in the stories. But some say there were guns
+
The King mouthed soft words to the family pet, arcane words that MoiraGwyn
−
in her hold, while others say it was only cloth. She had been taking on
+
could not understand. Sparky raised his head to stare steadily into
−
water and was due for repairs. But an extrodinary large hiring price had
+
Rowane's eyes.
−
been offered for her cargo. And the captain was greedy.'
 
  
−
And paused ever so dramatically.
+
Rowane gently rested Sparky in the lap of his rather reluctant Queen.
  
−
'The sea was wild that night. And they had to sail through a particularly
+
Continuing to whisper softly, Rowane spoke to his wife.
−
dangerous stretch. The coast is uneven there. In some places there are
 
−
rocks that stick up only inches below the surface of the water, and if you
 
−
do not know that they are there, you will hit them.'
 
  
−
Asher cringed at the thought and solemnly nodded.
+
'MoiraGwyn, do you remember when we got Sparky?'
  
−
'The Light Dawn was sailing back from England that night. England, you
+
'You gave him to me as a gift for our wedding.'
−
see, is where the people across the water lived. Or rather, came from. It
 
−
was a terrible night for sailing. The winds were wild.'
 
  
−
'And the ship, loaded down in the water, came up against one of the rocks.
+
Rowane smiled at her.
−
Some say that the helmsmen was a mere boy. Others say that he was drunk.
 
−
And still others, that he was in the pay of the English.'
 
  
−
'But if he was, it stood him no profit.'
+
'Yes, he was a gift to you,' He encircled an arm about her, his free hand
−
 
+
petting the creature who was now nuzzling to his mistresses lap. 'But do
−
'...which would not be a good business venture then,' Asher noted
+
you remember where he came from?'
−
solemnly.
 
−
 
 
−
'The rocks where the ships fell up against were close enough so that they
 
−
could hear the shouts and cries of the mariners across the waters. But too
 
−
far to see. And the English soldiers were patrolling the shore.'
 
−
 
 
−
'They were all assumed lost. But the strange thing was...that is, none of
 
−
the men aboard her were ever seen again. Nor the ship. Nor its cargo.'
 
−
 
 
−
'None of the bodies washed up.'
 
−
 
 
−
Asher raised his eyebrow.
 
−
 
 
−
'They didn't find the wreckage?'
 
−
 
 
−
Moira shook her head.
 
−
 
 
−
'Nor the timbers. Or cargo.'
 
−
 
 
−
Asher blinked and turned his head to look at Moira, who was oblivious to
 
−
anything but her tale (including the annoying chirps of the local song
 
−
birds).
 
−
 
 
−
'That is, they searched the waters of the coast nearby and the saw
 
−
nothing. It was uncanny...and after, stories of the ships started going
 
−
around. Some say that they saw it floating above the waters in the
 
−
twilight of the evening.'
 
−
 
 
−
'Not touching water?' Asher asked.
 
−
 
 
−
Moira nodded solemnly.
 
−
 
 
−
'Now, the people of my village have taken up the newfangled religion. They
 
−
observe it in places called churches.'
 
−
 
 
−
Asher suddenly looked quite quiet.
 
−
 
 
−
'But their hearts are still with the old gods. And some said that the gods
 
−
had chosen to punish those men for smuggling. But others said that the
 
−
gods had rescued them.'
 
−
 
 
−
'And if you looked up in the sky at night, you would see the ship up
 
−
there.'
 
−
 
 
−
She pointed upward.
 
−
 
 
−
'Thus the Great Wagon?' remarked a ruggedly handsome surgeon.
 
−
 
 
−
Moira was aghast. How had she got a wagon mixed up with a ship?!
 
−
 
 
−
'Er, some call it a wagon, but it's really a ship... portaging, perhaps,'
 
−
she mumbled, 'on the great Starry Road.'
 
−
 
 
−
She stole a glance at Asher. Did he believe it? Or had he realized that
 
−
she had no idea of what she was talking about?
 
−
 
 
−
He merely smiled to himself.
 
−
 
 
−
              =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
  
−
                    You Only Deliver Twice, Part 2
+
MoiraGwyn thought for a moment. The first time she met Sparky... How had
 +
that come about? Ahh, now she remembers!
  
−
When each of the delivery people went on a run, they took two deliveries
+
'You summoned him accidentally.' She smiled at Rowane. 'When you went to
−
at a time. They used to do more at a time, but there were more and more
+
fill your chalice from your gap in the etheral plane, he came forth at the
−
complaints about the third delivery being cold, squashed, blood splatted
+
same time.'
−
from the delivery person having to make a violent delivery, or, in cases
 
−
where the delivery person didn't survive the first two deliveries, the
 
−
third didn't arrive at all. So after spending a fortune on consultants,
 
−
the management decided that they should only delivered twice before
 
−
returning back to base.
 
  
−
When he'd been collecting his deliveries and getting ready to be
+
MoiraGwyn giggled at the memory, leaning forward to kiss the cheek of her
−
transported to the delivery time/space co-ordinates, he'd noticed
+
absentminded husband.
−
Henderson was also getting ready to leave. A quick glance at Henderson's
 
−
deliveries revealed that, as per usual, they were stupifyingly easy. No
 
−
chance of an encounter with unfriendly pygmies. No chance of accidental
 
−
beheading. Infact the only danger was possibly getting a papercut from the
 
−
bag the delivery came in.
 
  
−
Then he looked at his own deliveries. The first was for a Mr. Polly Parrot
+
'He had far more personality than a standard summoned creature. Completely
−
with the address "somewhere in the medieval caribean". The second had such
+
different from the kind that Emry's husband Robar has brought forth!' She
−
bad hand writing on the name that he couldn't read it and the address
+
smiled. 'He was so sweet, almost like... a puppy or such!'
−
co-ordinates would put him in the middle of the Atlantic ocean. While he
 
−
had heard stories of people being mutilated by parrots in that era,
 
−
neither really posed any obvious danger. But with missing addresses and
 
−
unrecognisable names they weren't actually going to be fun.
 
  
−
So, while no one was looking, he switched the second deliveries around.
+
Realizing her own exuberance, she quieted, her gaze on the creature now
−
Henderson could go and get lost in the Atlantic looking for Mr. Whoever,
+
staring up at her from her lap.
−
and with any luck would never be seen again.
 
  
−
Meanwhile, he'd do a nice peaceful delivery to the penthouse suite in a
+
Rowane leaned in to kiss his wife's cheek.
−
nice un-dangerous high class hotel on some tropical island resort. It'd be
 
−
the easiest delivery he'd had since that day he was attacked by what he
 
−
thought were a herd of rabid iguanas, but what turned out to be just a
 
−
pack of laid back lizards who enjoyed eating soap powder.
 
  
−
He smiled and looked at his watch. Time to move on. He turned to Redbeard
+
'That was many months ago. Sparky is a magical creature from a plane that
−
who was noisily munching on his vegetarian curry.
+
differs greatly from ours.' He seemed to be choosing his words carefully.
  
−
'I don't suppose you guys have a boat I can borrow?,' he asked. 'I need to
+
'I think... well, actually Sparky confirmed for me such- He needs to
−
get going to my next delivery.' He looked at Redbeard's termite infested
+
return to his home sometimes, to recharge himself or else he will get sick
−
leg. 'In return I could bring you a can of insect repelent with your next
+
and die. It does not seem to be very often,' He rushed his words, worried
−
order.'
+
his wife would react badly. 'But he does need to make trips back to his
 +
original home, to be able to stay here.'
  
−
Redbeard smiled but didn't stop eating. He gestured towards a battered
+
Rowane watched Sparky stare quietly at MoiraGwyn.
−
fishing boat resting a little further down the beach.
 
  
−
'Thanks,' said the delivery boy as he set off down the beach. 'Enjoy your
+
'It is not that he does not love us and love being here with us... He
−
meal!'
+
waited as long as he could and became sick for it. He did not wish to
 +
leave your side.
  
−
With that he climbed aboard the boat and began rowing in the direction of
+
The Queen's teardrops splashed down upon Sparky's nose, causing him to
−
his next delivery.
+
blink.
  
−
After traveling for some time he checked the delivery co-ordinates against
+
Rowane kissed his wife tenderly.
−
his tracking device. He was getting close, but looking around he didn't
 
−
see any islands, let alone any high class hotels with penthouse suites.
 
  
−
But then as he squinted into the distance he saw something in the water.
+
'It is not that he no longer loved us,' He whispered softly to her ear.
−
It could be a small island, he thought. The hotel he was looking for must
+
'He loves us so much he didn't want to leave... Even at the risk of his
−
be pretty exclusive if its way out here on this tiny island. Exclusive
+
health.'
−
ment expensive. Expensive ment a rich customer. Rich customers sometimes
 
−
ment a wallet straining sized tip! He began to row quickly towards it.
 
  
−
As he got closer he realised the island was moving towards him. And it was
+
Sparky raise his head enough to rest it to his Mistresses stomache. He
−
green. And it was slimey. And it didn't have a hotel on it. Infact, it
+
stared quietly up at her.
−
didn't look much like an island at all.
 
  
−
He checked the tag on the delivery, trying to make out the name.
+
'He really is sick? Not just drunk?'
  
−
MEANWHILE...
+
'He just needs to return home to regenerate. Sort of the same way we need
 +
to after we spellcast,' He explained gently.
  
−
In another time and place, James Henderson, Dial-A-Curry's best delivery
+
She stared at her husband, a nervous hand quietly petting Sparky. She
−
boy, stood outside the door of the penthouse suite of a high class hotel.
+
nodded in understanding.
−
He congratulated himself for the 422nd time on spotting the swapped
 
−
deliveries just in time, and switching them back without being seen. There
 
−
was a reason that damn fool was second best, he thought to himself. He was
 
−
stupid, that's why. Couldn't even do a simple delivery swap properly. He
 
−
smiled to himself as the door to the penthouse suite was answered by 14
 
−
scantily clad supermodels. He smiled even more when he discovered that
 
−
scantily clad supermodels consider curry an aphrodisiac. And he laughed
 
−
himself stupid when he thought of what was about to happen to that damn
 
−
fool in the Atlantic ocean.
 
  
−
BACK IN THE ATLANTIC OCEAN...
+
'How long will it be? Do we even know?' Rowane could not hear her.
  
−
Dial-A-Curry's second best delivery boy suddenly realized he'd seen this
+
Rowane was already muttering spellcasting words under his breath, words
−
delivery before. Wasn't it the one he'd swapped with Henderson's?? It
+
Moiragwyn was used to hearing but that were too complex for her to really
−
couldn't be! No one had seen him swap them. Had they?
+
understand. As the air about them seemed to thicken and form waves, a
 +
crease in the waves seemed to become more prominent. As Rowane's chanting
 +
seemed to become a bit louder, more methodical.. like a chant... the
 +
crease seemed to yawn and stretch itself wider. A gap was opening before
 +
them, what layed inside so difficult to tell through mists that seemed to
 +
be pushing towards them.
  
−
As he tried to read the tag again he realized the name wasn't unreadable,
+
King Rowane glanced towards his wife, his chanting never faltering. She
−
it was just upside down. He turned it up the right way and read it. "Mr.
+
understood.
−
Terrifying Sea Serpent".
 
  
−
'Bugger,' he said to himself as what he'd thought was an island raised its
+
MoiraGwyn lifted Sparky, staring down at his face. He did not seem
−
gigantic head out of the ocean and towered above him.
+
himself, not at all.
  
−
He stood in the rocking boat and held the delivery aloft. 'Did you order a
+
She glanced fearfully towards the gap as she lifted Sparky towards it.
−
curry?' he yelled up at the serpent, hoping that all it was after was the
 
−
food it had ordered, and that it was a good tipper.
 
  
−
It didn't answer. It just looked at him hungrily, its pointy teeth looking
+
Sparky moved to lick at Rowane's face before turning to stare back at
−
pointier by the second.
+
MoiraGwyn. Every movement seemed to be an effort for him. He extended his
 +
neck as much as he could, the tip of his nose tapped his mistress gently
 +
on her own.
  
−
He sighed. He hated troublesome customers almost as much as he hated James
+
He seemed far more confident that things would be ok than his owners did.
−
Henderson. He'd have to fight his way out yet again. He looked around the
 
−
boat for some sort of anti-sea serpent weapon. All he found was a
 
−
complimentary Dial-A-Curry tooth pick that came with the delivery.
 
  
−
He brandished the tooth pick menacingly at the sea serpent. 'Ok then,' he
+
He turned from the Queen's arms towards the gap in the ethereal plane. One
−
said. 'Come 'n get it!'
+
paw raised to rest on the opening, he was sucked into it before either of
 +
them knew what happened.
  
−
The sea serpent dived its huge head down at him and in one gulp ate the
+
In Rowane's surprise he stopped casting for a moment. The gap closing with
−
curry whole.
+
a soft pop.
  
−
Unfortunately, Dial-A-Curry's second best delivery boy was still holding
+
And with that, Sparky was gone.
−
it at the time.
 
  
 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Line 866: Line 643:
 
replies, additions, or corrections to our address at [email protected] for
 
replies, additions, or corrections to our address at [email protected] for
 
inclusion in the next edition. All subscription options are now handled
 
inclusion in the next edition. All subscription options are now handled
−
at this url: http://www.legendmud.org/lists/listinfo/legendarytimes  
+
at this url: http://www.legendmud.org/lists/listinfo/legendarytimes
 
For RP submissions, copyright ownership remains with the author. We do
 
For RP submissions, copyright ownership remains with the author. We do
 
reserve the right to moderate the forum and edit or reject any submission.
 
reserve the right to moderate the forum and edit or reject any submission.

Latest revision as of 13:46, 24 March 2018

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 .............._______
 ............./      /            THE LEGENDARY TIMES
 ............/      /
 .........../      /.....______.._____.....______.._____.......____
 ........../      /...../     /./     \.../     /./     \...../    \
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 ......../      /...../  /_.../  /....../  /_.../  /..\   >./  /./  /
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 ...../                / /./       /./     /./  /.../  /./       /
 ..../                /_/..\______/./_____/./__/.../__/./_______/ MUD
 .../________________/      running on         mud.legendmud.org 9999

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
http://www.legendmud.org/                       ftp://ftp.legendmud.org/pub
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
VOLUME NINE, NUMBER TWENTY-THREE                              June 16, 2002
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

                          TABLE OF CONTENTS

                          The Editor's Note

                        NEWS, REPORTS, UPDATES
                          Calendar of Events
                            Recent Updates
                     Ancient Era Spotlight: Aztecs
                           Recent Q&A Topics
                      DID YOU KNOW: EXPEL command

                              LEGENDITES
                            Announcements
                              Clan News
                     And with that, he was gone...
___                                                                   ___
\  |-----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
/__|                        The Editor's Note                        |__\
   '-----------------------------------------------------------------'

Sorry for the delay in getting this issue out, but things have been crazy
around here lately. Summer and disrupted schedules just seem together.

I've noticed a little confusion over the "In-Progress Areas" section of
the RECENT UPDATES section here and I'd like to clarify just what that
section shows. It is not a particularly accurate indicator of progress on
an area.

Some weeks a builder might make a couple little additions/changes and do
what is called a "commit" of the file (that's techincal speak for saved a
copy on the mud machine so they wouldn't lose it). Other weeks, they might
be busy making lots of changes and additions to their file but might not
commit it because they've run into a problem and it won't load yet. Or
they may have forgotten to do it.

So, just because you don't see a given area listed every week, it doesn't
mean that it isn't being worked on, it just means I didn't get a little
email from the mud machine saying a commit had been made.

If you're curious about the building projects that are out there, you can
visit http://www.legendmud.org/kaige/deptgoals.shtml#BUILDING and scroll
down to the "Projects to Support Goals" section and see who's doing what.
Again, the in progress areas are at various stages and their listing does
not guarantee completion. 

That page also lists coding and pr projects as well, so if you're curious
about any of them, bring your questions to the next Q&A on Thursday at 6pm
system time.

-Kaige

___                                                                   ___
\  |-----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
/__|                   LegendMUD Calendar of Events                  |__\
   '-----------------------------------------------------------------'
            [All times are system time unless otherwise specified]
   
        June kicks off our 2002 Summer Odyssey in the Ancient Era.
         Join us on a journey through time to explore our world!
 
                                 JUNE 
                         Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
                                            1
                          2  3  4  5  6  7  8 
                          9 10 11 12 13 14 15  
                         16 17 18 19 20 21 22 
                         23 24 25 26 27 28 29
                         30
  
Wednesday, June     19th   9:00 pm    Ancient Level to 5 Contest
Thursday,  June     20th   6:00 pm    Q & A in the OOC Auditorium
Wednesday, June     26th   9:00 pm    Randomized Limericks, Ancient Style
Thursday,  June     27th   6:00 pm    Q & A in the OOC Auditorium

___                                                                   ___
\  |-----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
/__|                          Recent Updates                         |__\
   '-----------------------------------------------------------------'

    /\                         CODE UPDATES
   /  \     
  /    \    BALANCE CHANGES
 /_    _\    o Lesser Elementals can no longer be taken out of their
   |  |        element (see the help their files for details). Greater
   |  |        Elementals are hurt while they spend time out of their
   |  |        element.
   |__|      o Weather now affects elementals.
    /\       o Create Mages can now control fewer charmies at a time. The
   /  \        more charmies they have, the less chance they have to be
  /    \       able to control another
 /_    _\    o Animate dead hp formula modified
   |  |     
   |  |     MISC CHANGES
   |  |      o Items in housing now save differently. Both you and the
   |__|        house should now save every time you drop or take items
    /\         from a house.
   /  \      o Grumpy mood added
  /    \     o "it's dead" part of the poke social is no longer there.
 /_    _\   
   |  |     BUG FIXES
   |  |      o Healing rate while kneeling fixed.
   |  |      o The inventory order reversal is fixed
   |__|      o Some charmies never intended as combatants no longer fight
    /\       o You no longer save whenever you take something out of a bag
   /  \     
  /    \    
 /_    _\                      HELP FILE UPDATES      
   |  |     
   |  |     The following helpfile was recently updated:
   |  |     
   |__|         QandA 
    /\      
   /  \       
  /    \                        SUMMER ODYSSEY    
 /_    _\                     ANCIENT ERA UPDATES
   |  |     
   |  |     If you want to suggest specific improvements or new additions
   |  |     to existing areas please don't hesitate to submit them with
   |__|     the idea/bug/typo commands or drop mudmail to the builder
    /\      currently responsible for the area (check AREAINFO to find
   /  \     out!) And don't limit ideas to just these three months!
  /    \    
 /_    _\   AZTECS
   |  |          A couple of new mobs, a few new items. Shuffles the
   |  |          levels of some mobs around. So be careful and consider
   |  |          everything. Two new quests, one of which is a separate
   |__|          quest for male characters to balance the female only one.
    /\           Adds in random names for most of the general mobs and
   /  \          dresses them appropriately. Various bug & typo fixes.
  /    \    
 /_    _\   ANCIENT INDIA
   |  |          Karna and regal ksatriyas and dhurtahs altered. 
   |  |          Shopkeepers sell necessities. Sanjaya hopefully won't
   |  |          repeat story, priests return to ring eventually, some
   |__|          cleanup of the friendship quest (will stop attacking and
    /\           actually leave when supposed to), No more dhaksha leaf
   /  \          buildup. Arjuna now slays those that pick up Godiva when
  /    \         they shouldn't (as intended). Forage items added with
 /_    _\        custom items on battlefield. Various bugs & typos fixed.
   |  |     
   |  |     ANCIENT NAZCA, ARABIAN NIGHTS, BEOWULF, CELTIC IRELAND, ROMAN     
   |  |     BRITAIN and PICTISH COUNTRY
   |__|          Various bugs and typos fixed.
    /\      
   /  \     
  /    \                      Other Area Updates
 /_    _\   
   |  |     FRENCH & INDIAN WAR
   |  |          Hopefully, fixes the beluga overpopulation problem once
   |  |          and for all. Various bugs and typos fixed.
   |__|     
    /\      HOSPITALLER MALTA
   /  \          If you can leave customs, you can go ooc.
  /    \    
 /_    _\   SHERWOOD
   |  |          Double checks that you can't rent if you're fighting at
   |  |          the Stag or Salutation & are allowed to rent there.
   |  |          Black Knight returns to his spot. Various bugs & typos
   |__|          fixed.
    /\      
   /  \     1802 ALASKA, THE ALHAMBRA, MEDIEVAL SEAS, PARIS OPERA HOUSE,
  /    \    and TORTUGA
 /_    _\        Various bugs and typos fixed.
   |  |     
   |  |                    In Progress Area Updates 
   |  |     
   |__|     This section is intended to let everyone know what builders 
    /\      are working on behind the scenes. It is not a perfect record
   /  \     of progress as all builders will not make updates every week.
  /    \    Players badgering builders about progress or a perceived lack
 /_    _\   thereof will be flogged. Remember, the longer spent answering
   |  |     questions, the longer the project takes to complete.
   |  |     
   |  |             Bart         Paris Expansion
   |__|             Cheyla       1802 Alaska Expansion

  ___                                                                  ___
  \  |----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
  /__|              Ancient Era Spotlight: Aztecs                     |__\
     '----------------------------------------------------------------'

Friday, June 14, of the Mexica year Thirteen Rabbit.

As I traveled north from the Nazcan Plain, I eventually found myself in
the Quautemalan highlands. The difference from the dry, arid desert to
this lush tropical land was amazing. I narrowly avoided a mudslide one
rainy night, but was otherwise untroubled on my journey.

That is until I reached the Tzempuula Mountains. A pair of wild boars were
not so happy that I chose their favorite wallowing hole as a place to stop
and make a meal. However, I like to think that brains won out over brawn
and I am happy to report that I have plenty of roast pork in my sack now.

Soon, the land turned dry again. But instead of lacking any and all
vegetation, this time there were succulents everywhere. There were giant
ones that loomed over me that reminded me of immense candelabras. And big,
round, prickly ones. The best part, was if you were careful, you could
gently pluck the fruit and tender new leaves from between the spines for a
refreshing meal.

I kept venturing north until I reached a large lake with an island in the
center of it and outlying villages nestled along the shore. For no reason,
I first wandered along the west side of the lake. I came across a quarry
where men were removing limestone from the earth and fashioning it into
crude tools and weapons. A few men sat by with rough hammers and chisels
turning the smaller, useless bits of rock into small statues. I tried to
get one's attention, but he was too focused on his work.

I continued north along the western shore of the lake. I passed several
fields of maize, beans and melons. I soon came across a group of peasants
who were carrying in loads of fresh, rich soil and dumping them on a raft
of woven tree limbs and branches hey had moored at the very edge of the
lake. When I greeted them and told them my name, they responded most
strangely. I will try to spell what they said, 'Mixpantzinco Finlaytzin.'
Now do not laugh, it was said with respect. They called their language
'Nahuatl.'

I asked them about their work and they explained that in the years to
come, the roots of maize, beans and chilis and anything else growing there
will reach down through the shallow water and grab hold of older roots and
the lake bottom and eventually hold the chinamitl in place. It seemed that
there was not enough arable land otherwise to feed all the people who had
settled here in the valley around the lake.

I continued following the curve of the lake past several villages and came
across a causeway that led out to the island in the middle of the lake. A
pair of brawny Mexica warriors stood there ready to do battle. But after
explaining that I was not looking for trouble, only adventure and to see
the glory of their city, they let me pass.

As I entered the city of Tenochtitlan proper, cockatoos, parrots, and
parakeets flitted about and small hairless dogs wandered about looking
nervous. Later, I met a young boy with something slung over his shoulder
and he explained how those dogs were eaten. Certainly explained why they
looked so nervous. What ever happened to 'man's best friend'?
 
Everywhere I turned in the city, it bustled with life. Men in long dirty
robes wandered about praying to their gods. Fierce warriors patrolled the
streets and men and women went about their business, stopping frequently
to offer a small prayer or offering to their gods at one of the numerous
temples. 

The most spectacular of these temples was an enormous stone pyramid
rising out of the center of the city. As I approached the foot of the
pyramid, ready to climb the steps, I came across a rack of human skulls on
display. Confused by the indifferent but often respectful welcome I had
gotten from the people here, I continued to make my way to the summit of
the pyramid.

The view of the city was complete from there. The gentle waters of Lake
Texcoco could be seen lapping at the edges of the city. Two temples were
situated on opposite sides of the summit. The priests milled about trying
to please their gods. Flies swarmed around dark ominous stains and a raven
flew around cawing ominously.

About that time, what appeared to be one of the head priests came out of
the temple for his god and yelled, 'We have need of a sacrifice to please
the god, Huitzilopochtli!' I gulped nervously as he pointed directly at
me. I startled as a savage warrior brushed past me and made his way to a
darkened stone and knelt down beside it. When the high priest pulled out a
knife made of brittle obsidian and I had to turn my head. I just couldn't
watch.

Finlay, the wanderer.

               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

While this area tries to offer something for all levels, characters under
level 20 are best suited for this area. If you are interested in learning
more about the Aztecs culture before experiencing it 'firsthand', here are
a few web sites that can get you started:

Aztecs Culture in Ancient Mexico:
   http://www.indians.org/welker/aztec.htm
   http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/CIVAMRCA/AZTECS.HTM
   http://atschool.eduweb.co.uk/wickham/topics/aztecs/aztecs.html
   http://www.beautyworlds.com/aztecs.htm

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
  _______   ____    _______
 /  ___  \ / __ \  /  ___  \  Logs of Q&A sessions are available on the
 | /   \ | \ \/ /  | /   \ |  web pages for those who are unable to attend
 | |   | |  \  /   | \___/ |  or had to leave early. The most recent ones
 | |   | |  /  \/\ |  ___  |  are listed on the sitemap page or you can
 | | /\| | / /\  / | /   \ |  get a complete list on the Q&A index page
 | \_\ \ | \ \/  \ | \   / |  at the url below.
  \___\/_/  \__/\/ \_/   \_|

     http://www.legendmud.org/Community/lectures/QandA/QA_index.html

                              RECENT TOPICS

 o Housing Limits?                   o Upcoming Odyssey Events?
 o Detect Illusion Item?             o Games & Timing?
 o Upcoming Balance Changes?         o Areas: Building vs Coding
 o Tag Team PK Tourney?              o More Recent Time Periods?
 o Ideas for Events                  o Seeing Floorplans before Buying?
 o Mob Quotes Trivia Idea 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
   _____    
  /  _  \   DID YOU KNOW: Tips and tricks and little-used features
 /__/ \  \  
      /  /  Ever logged out in a friend's house or clan hall only to come
     /  /   back and find the door to the rest of the world locked? Ever
    /__/    gotten sick of that ugly piece of furniture that the immorts
    __      just had to include with the room in your house? Ever had
   /  \     someone come pester you in your house and overstayed their
   \__/     welcome?
   _____    
  /  _  \   The EXPEL command may be very useful to you in these or other
 /__/ \  \  situations. 
      /  /  
     /  /   EXPEL SELF will get you out of someone else's house. Very
    /__/         handy if you log in and the door's locked and you want
    __           to play. No immortal help is needed in this situation.
   /  \     
   \__/     EXPEL <item> pushes the item out the door and unowns it. You
   _____         can also use EXPEL ALL Y to move out all of the objects
  /  _  \        in your house (this is similar to what happens when a
 /__/ \  \       house is repossessed -- it's all dumped to the street --
      /  /       so you want to use that command with caution.
     /  /   
    /__/    EXPEL <persongt; allows the owner or clan member to be rid of
    __           unwelcome guests (mobs included). This command does 
   /  \          adhere to the pkill restrictive timer. If the person is
   \__/          being troublesome, you may want to lock the door first.

  ___                                                                  ___
  \  |----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
  /__|    LEGENDITES: Information Regarding the People of Our World   |__\
     '----------------------------------------------------------------'

              Nietzsche has reached 500 million experience!
  ___                                                                  ___
  \  |----------------------------------------------------------------|  /
  /__|                         Clan News                              |__\
     '----------------------------------------------------------------'

            The Amazons clan was disbanded for low membership.
                The Dark Lord's Elite clan ws disbanded.

               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

                       Freedom Fighters Recruiting

      We are a clan who are dedicated to making the world easier to
      live in for everybody who deserves it... and sometimes for those
      who can afford it :P

      We strive for a greater freedom, freedom from the capitalistic
      scum who assume everything should be payed for.

            So, if you think you can be helpful in any way... 

                    The Freedom Fighters want YOU!

             For more information or interviews contact Wyth.

               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

As if Omni's scrawled writing on the wall warning Marcel that a movement
is growing against him wasn't enough proof, the following scrap of paper
was found slipped under our door:

            Lord Marcel -
            
            You prolly already know this...but Omni is trying to
            grab pledges and take over the clan as Czar. Just
            thought you would wanna know if you didn't already.
            
            - Celes
            
                          -------------------
            
            Ooh, the sweet competition that lets the strong
            prosper and the weak perish. I applaud her effort --
            and I will enjoy watching her pride's downfall all
            the more!
            
            Marcel Alexander,
            Esquire

Just how much trouble is brewing within the Seven Circles? We'll just have
to wait and see.

               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

The Grendels had the most members active this week. They were closely
followed by the IRA, the Knights of Legend and the Mercenaries. The Grand
Coven's and the Hermetic Order's members also saw some action this week.
The Syndicate recruited a new member in the nick of time and managed to
see some action as well. The Dark Enforcers were laying low and not heard
from this week. One wonders if the Dark Lord's power and charisma fades.

               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

There were 48 pkill deaths in the last week, so come on, let's get YOUR
name up in lights! Have you witnessed/commited any glorious or nefarious
deeds? Send a short report to us at the LT. If you are looking for a
fight, recruiting, or anything else related to the pk world, advertise
here with us! It's free AND you'll get a token! Be a celebrity, the envy
of all your friends! Tick off your enemies or just tell your side of the
story! The possibilities are endless -- act today!!
 
               =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
 
There are currently 15 RP clans and 8 PK clans. This leaves open slots for
nine (9) more clans to form. For more information, read HELP CLAN and see
the clan information list via the CLANS command while logged into the game.
For a basic handbook and reference for players interested in founding and
running a clan, visit .

              _______________________
             /                       \
        o O | Wonder what folks are   |
  `\|||/    | doing over at LegendMUD?|
   (o o)     \_______________________/
ooO_(_)_Ooo________________________________________________________________
_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|___
__|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|_____|

                        And with that, he was gone...

MoiraGwyn turned a cold shoulder, 'Don't you even look at me after all
that drama. Shame on you!'

Sparky turned away, resting across the room, on the floor. He moaned
quietly.

King Rowane watched the scene quietly, from the doorway. He was grateful
to be home and this was the last thing he expected to find. What was going
on?

'Love?' Queen MoiraGwyn turned at the sound of Rowane's voice. She turned,
rushing into his awaiting arms.

'Rowane, I am so glad you are home,' She buried her face to his neck, her
arms wrapped tightly about him. 'I missed you so very much.'

The King rocked his wife in his arms, nuzzling her cheek gently.

'I missed you too. More than you could imagine.'

His gaze fell upon the face of his wife, her brow still a bit furrowed.
She seemed upset.

'What is that I saw, between you and Sparky? Is something wrong? He didn't
misbehave again did he?'

He prepared to scold their potentially misbehaving salamander.

MoiraGwyn frowned in the direction of their pet. She turned away from her
husband, unable to face him.

'He doesn't like me,' She said quietly.

Rowane raised an eyebrow at his wifes words, 'What? Of course he does. Why
do you think otherwise?'

'He would rather be off with that.. that DRUNKARD! He has not been the
same with me since the incident... I do not think he wants to be with us
anymore,' Her face fell, tears welling in her eyes.

'He does not bound over when he sees me. He does not scamper about when he
knows we are to go for a walk. He... he does not even come to cuddle or be
petted.' She hang her head. Unable to control them, tears came forth to
streak her cheeks.

'My fragile flower... Did he do something to hurt your feelings?' He
cradled his wife to him, kissing the top of her head.

King Rowane looked at Sparky. His gaze turned thoughtful.

'Come here, boy.'

Sparky turned his head in the direction of his masters voice but seemed
reluctant to move towards it.

Rowane stared quietly at his pet.

'Darling, I think there is something more to Sparky's problems than
alcohol.' He wrapped an arm around his wife, bringing her with him to walk
towards Sparky.

Rowane knelt besides the salamander, reaching out to pet him. Sparky's
eyes moved to meet the Kings gaze. It seemed to MoiraGwyn as if the two
were having some sort of conversation that she could somehow not hear.
Feeling even more left out, she went to turn away.

'Love, don't be like that,' Rowane reached a hand out to his lifemate.
Fingers stroking along her arm, he beckoned her to rest beside him. She
did.

Rowane's voice dropped to a quiet whisper.

'After the run in with McDougan, has a closer eye been kept on Sparky and
what he eats and drinks?'

MoiraGwyn nodded quietly.

'His listlessness has remained and he has not improved?'

'He has been like this... I dont know why, just that he doesnt seem to
like us...'

Rowane picked up Sparky. With a soft hand, he examined the belly and
throat of Sparky, then looked inide his mouth. He seems to ponder. He
pressed with the softest pressure along what he felt might be a swollen
tummy. Sparky emitted a small moan.

The King mouthed soft words to the family pet, arcane words that MoiraGwyn
could not understand. Sparky raised his head to stare steadily into
Rowane's eyes.

Rowane gently rested Sparky in the lap of his rather reluctant Queen.

Continuing to whisper softly, Rowane spoke to his wife.

'MoiraGwyn, do you remember when we got Sparky?'

'You gave him to me as a gift for our wedding.'

Rowane smiled at her.

'Yes, he was a gift to you,' He encircled an arm about her, his free hand
petting the creature who was now nuzzling to his mistresses lap. 'But do
you remember where he came from?'

MoiraGwyn thought for a moment. The first time she met Sparky... How had
that come about? Ahh, now she remembers!

'You summoned him accidentally.' She smiled at Rowane. 'When you went to
fill your chalice from your gap in the etheral plane, he came forth at the
same time.'

MoiraGwyn giggled at the memory, leaning forward to kiss the cheek of her
absentminded husband.

'He had far more personality than a standard summoned creature. Completely
different from the kind that Emry's husband Robar has brought forth!' She
smiled. 'He was so sweet, almost like... a puppy or such!'

Realizing her own exuberance, she quieted, her gaze on the creature now
staring up at her from her lap.

Rowane leaned in to kiss his wife's cheek.

'That was many months ago. Sparky is a magical creature from a plane that
differs greatly from ours.' He seemed to be choosing his words carefully.

'I think... well, actually Sparky confirmed for me such- He needs to
return to his home sometimes, to recharge himself or else he will get sick
and die. It does not seem to be very often,' He rushed his words, worried
his wife would react badly. 'But he does need to make trips back to his
original home, to be able to stay here.'

Rowane watched Sparky stare quietly at MoiraGwyn.

'It is not that he does not love us and love being here with us... He
waited as long as he could and became sick for it. He did not wish to
leave your side.

The Queen's teardrops splashed down upon Sparky's nose, causing him to
blink.

Rowane kissed his wife tenderly.

'It is not that he no longer loved us,' He whispered softly to her ear.
'He loves us so much he didn't want to leave... Even at the risk of his
health.'

Sparky raise his head enough to rest it to his Mistresses stomache. He
stared quietly up at her.

'He really is sick? Not just drunk?'

'He just needs to return home to regenerate. Sort of the same way we need
to after we spellcast,' He explained gently.

She stared at her husband, a nervous hand quietly petting Sparky. She
nodded in understanding.

'How long will it be? Do we even know?' Rowane could not hear her.

Rowane was already muttering spellcasting words under his breath, words
Moiragwyn was used to hearing but that were too complex for her to really
understand. As the air about them seemed to thicken and form waves, a
crease in the waves seemed to become more prominent. As Rowane's chanting
seemed to become a bit louder, more methodical.. like a chant... the
crease seemed to yawn and stretch itself wider. A gap was opening before
them, what layed inside so difficult to tell through mists that seemed to
be pushing towards them.

King Rowane glanced towards his wife, his chanting never faltering. She
understood.

MoiraGwyn lifted Sparky, staring down at his face. He did not seem
himself, not at all.

She glanced fearfully towards the gap as she lifted Sparky towards it.

Sparky moved to lick at Rowane's face before turning to stare back at
MoiraGwyn. Every movement seemed to be an effort for him. He extended his
neck as much as he could, the tip of his nose tapped his mistress gently
on her own.

He seemed far more confident that things would be ok than his owners did.

He turned from the Queen's arms towards the gap in the ethereal plane. One
paw raised to rest on the opening, he was sucked into it before either of
them knew what happened.

In Rowane's surprise he stopped casting for a moment. The gap closing with
a soft pop.

And with that, Sparky was gone.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
The Legendary Times is published by the immortals of LegendMUD. Please send
replies, additions, or corrections to our address at [email protected] for
inclusion in the next edition. All subscription options are now handled
at this url: http://www.legendmud.org/lists/listinfo/legendarytimes
For RP submissions, copyright ownership remains with the author. We do
reserve the right to moderate the forum and edit or reject any submission.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
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