Volume Ten Issue Sixteen
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.............._______
............./ / THE LEGENDARY TIMES
............/ / http://www.legendmud.org/
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....../ /_____/__/__../ \_\ /./ /__../ /.../ /./ /_/ /
...../ / /./ /./ /./ /.../ /./ /
..../ /_/..\______/./_____/./__/.../__/./_______/ MUD
.../________________/ running on mud.legendmud.org 9999
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VOLUME TEN, NUMBER SIXTEEN May 18, 2003
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Editor's Note
NEWS, REPORTS, UPDATES
Calendar of Events
Recent Updates
Recent Q&A Topics
LEGENDITES
Letters to the Editor
Clan News
The Wardens of the King Formed
Twenty Questions for Your Friendly Neighborhood Knight Templar, Part 2
The PK Front
PKE Now Running Alongside PKOK
My Dearest Daughter...
Decisions made, Documents Required
Chain of the Past
Documents Required, Documents Found
From Prelude Into Symphony, PART II
___ ___
\ |-----------------------------------------------------------------| /
/__| The Editor's Note |__\
'-----------------------------------------------------------------'
Summer's almost here! And Snapper's been doing some Spring Cleaning making
all sorts of fixes here and there to help clena up memory and make sure
things aren't being used after they've been discarded as unused elsewhere
in the code. So hopefully, things should become a bit more stable and with
the shopkeeper bug that Rufus found and fixed, things should be running a
bit more smoothly. Or at least we can hope so, since when you mess with
memory stuff, you tend to shift problems around or uncover others.
The building updates tend to appear a little slower this time of year as
the builders gear up for the Summer Odyssey which kicks off in the ancient
era in June. This is often because a bunch of changes are held back until
all the necessary parts can be installed for the month in which an area is
going to be featured.
Tonight, LadyAce is running Trivia at 10pm system time.. so dust off your
trivia hats and join us for some fun! Also mark your calendars for the
tinyplot next Sunday starting at 5pm!
Have a great week!
-Kaige
___ ___
\ |-----------------------------------------------------------------| /
/__| LegendMUD Calendar of Events |__\
'-----------------------------------------------------------------'
[All times are system time unless otherwise specified]
MAY
S M Tu W Th F S
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 31
Sunday, May 18th 10:00 pm Trivia! with LadyAce
Thursday, May 22nd 7:30 pm Q & A in the OOC Auditorium
Saturday, May 24th 10:00 pm Buddhism Lecture
Sunday, May 25th 5:00 pm May Tinyplot
Tuesday, May 27th 8:00 pm PK Open Practice
Thursday, May 29th 7:30 pm Q & A in the OOC Auditorium
Coming in June: Legend's Summer Odyssey, starting with the Ancient Era!
___ ___
\ |-----------------------------------------------------------------| /
/__| Recent Updates |__\
'-----------------------------------------------------------------'
/\ CODE UPDATES
/ \
/ \ Misc Changes:
/_ _\ o CLANTIMER command for pk clans
| | o Fight messages handled differently to try to reduce lag on
| | big runs.
| | o All alignment checks in the code should now obey HELP
|__| ALIGNMENT
/\ o If a shopkeeper has their own inventory of an item they
/ \ now say they have their "own supplier" instead of their
/ \ "own supply".
/_ _\ o "You can't backstab a fighting person..." message no
| | longer says "person" so that it makes more sense with
| | animals.
| | o Clearer message for barriers to other planes wearing off.
|__| o MEND and REPAIR now require you to be sitting or standing.
/\ No more restinging, kneeling, or prone.
/ \ o All characters who were PREVIOUSLY PKEnabled will have
/ \ that removed the next time they log in and everyone
/_ _\ wishing to be re-PKEnabled will have to get re-enabled by
| | an admin.
| |
| | Bug Fixes:
|__| o OPERATIONS that go badly no longer send characters to
/\ negative prestige and will fix any that are currently
/ \ negative. (more may be coming with this, but at least it
/ \ won't go so low you don't see improvements with praise --
/_ _\ details not settled)
| | o Fix for the merchants with missing inventory bug.
| | o Fix toward reducing lag from big runs.
| |
|__| Typo Fixes:
/\ o some more changes and typo fixes in various moods
/ \ o typo fix on "Your personal tithe amound"
/ \
/_ _\ UPCOMING (no install date set yet)
| | o Affects saving over rent -- it no longer crashes the mud
| | when turned on but there are still some issues to resolve,
| | like sustained breath. We still need places pointed out,
|__| especially hometowns where it is impossible, or just hard
/\ to find cures for common bad affects. Drop any ideas or
/ \ comments on the feedback channels. Thanks!
/ \
/_ _\
| | HELP FILE UPDATES
| |
| | General Topics:
|__| AIM, ATTRIBUTE, DAZED, JARGON, SHOOT, SIT, WIMPY
/\
/ \
/ \ AREA 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 (use AREAINFO to find out!)
/\
/ \ Paul in the Wild Boar Tavern (OOC) will be offering skill
/ \ reimb packages from now until June 13th, 2003. There are
/_ _\ three options to choose from: INSPIRE, BOWMAN and CHANT which
| | take all the appropriate skills if known. All 1st circle
| | spellwords are reimbed at 1 practice per word and all 2nd
| | circle words wil be reimbed 2 practices. ASK PAUL UNLEARN for
|__| character specific info.
/\
/ \ To avoid confusion, you can no longer learn COURAGE, VALOR,
/ \ or IRON WILL if you don't have at least one of the minimum
/_ _\ physical stats for it to trigger.
| |
| | FRENCH INDIAN WAR
| | Wood-eater's teaching acts clarified a bit. Long descs
|__| on various bags fixed. Spam reduced when you need a bath.
/\
/ \ SHERWOOD
/ \ A couple more tweaks for Sutton Hoo trans. Various minor
/_ _\ bugs and typos fixed.
| |
| | VICEROYAL PERU
| | Certain new chars made will no longer be overrent.
|__| Almacenero's shop times match when he says he's open and
/\ closed. Various minor bugs and typos fixed.
/ \
/ \ 1802 ALASKA, AFRICAN SAVANNA, ANASAZI AMERICA, ANCIENT NAZCA,
/_ _\ ARABIAN NIGHTS, HOSPITALLER MALTA, PICTISH COUNTRY, PORT OF
| | LONDON, ROMAN BRITAIN, SAN FRANCISCO, SEONI JUNGLE, SOUTH
| | SEAS, VIKING SKANDINAVIA, and WWII NORTH AFRICA
| | Various minor bugs and typos fixed.
|__|
/\ In Progress Area Updates
/ \
/ \ This section is intended to share what builders are working
/_ _\ on behind the scenes. It is not a perfect record of progress
| | as all builders do not commit updates every week. Badgering
| | builders about their progress will get you flogged.
| |
|__| Kae Larderello (Dante's Hell)
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
_______ ____ _______
/ ___ \ / __ \ / ___ \ 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 Iron Will: When? o New Skill Discussion
o Bug with Autorush? o Optimal Spirit for Iron Will?
o Strage Strings & Guns Exploding? o Skilltrees?
o Changes for Steal Skill? o Big Groups & Lag?
o PK Tourney? o -Prestige Bug?
o Klein Update Progress? o Area Proposal Advice?
o In Progress Areas? o Changes to Old Guns?
o Spirit Penalty to Hit & Dam? o -Dex Surgeons? Bah.
o Can Missile Weapons be +8? o Changes for Surgeons?
o Carnival Mallet Suggestion o General Suggestions/Questions
o Quests to Build Housing? o Do Multiple Resists Stack?
o Dual Wield Weapons? o Upcoming Changes
o Stat Increases for TWOHANDED? o Waking & Different Positions?
o Problems with Ride Skill? o Ideas for London
o Are Ideas Logged? o Ideas for Steal Skill?
o Extra XP At Level Poofs? o No Spirit Penalty?
o Changes for Surgeons? o Burns Ever Going To Matter?
o XP Game Still Run? o Bug with Entrance?
o Balance Skill vs Topple? o General Suggestions/Questions
___ ___
\ |------------------------------------------------------------------| /
/__| LEGENDITES: Information Regarding the People of Our World |__\
'------------------------------------------------------------------'
Sarevok has reached 100 million experience!
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Letters to the Editor
It seems one of the articles published last week touched a couple nerves.
The two letters below were dispatched promptly to our offices to set the
record straight.
Dear Sir.
I usually read your newsletter with great interest (it
goes nicely with a cup of tea and a scone) and have not
had anything bad to say about your fine press - that
is, up until now.
I am certain that the article that I have issues with
was written by a new reporter (which I in strong terms
will suggest you fire immediately or teach a little bit
about how to do research), as the articles are usually
of high standard. You have got to keep a close eye on
them youngsters though, they have absolutely no respect
for their elders and learn nothing at school anymore.
If I wasn't such a reasonable man, I'd be boxing ears
left and right every time I leave my home. But I stray
from the topic at hand; bad journalism.
The article in question, was in the previous issue,
titled: NEWSFLASH! Extra Extra read all about it!
Under this headline (which held no information
whatsoever, was written to make the reader's pulse rise
and would have sent a man with a weaker heart than mine
straight on to the next realm) I read about how Masha
wrecks havoc yet again in Carian Trag. As if that was
news? However, my beef is not with that part of the
article, rather it is with the foul lies that are
stated further down in the article.
More specifically:
....young Rillifane, Masha's natural child with
Lawrence.
I cannot perceive the above statement in any other way
than an attempt to slander my lad, Lawrence Windstrom.
I am sure you did not mean for your newsletter to sink
to the level of a filthy slandering magazine, creating
scandals and lies to sell more issues?
To set the record straight, let me stress that there is
nothing natural Whatsoever about the way my grandson
was brought to life. My lad, being a Knight - and a
damn fine one at that - faced Masha in battle. After
this battle, Masha scraped blood of her staff and by
some foul trick, she got herself pregnant with the
intent of harming my son.
Natural? Hardly.
This does not mean that I do not love my grandson, but
that is another (and personal) matter.
I am most displeased that your newsletter would
willingly spread such slander about my lad and will
cancel my subscription unless an apology is extended.
For the sake of the integrity of your fine newsletter
and the keeping of an otherwise happy reader, I
strongly recommend a harsly-worded talking to to the
responsible 'reporter'.
Sincerely,
Ibrahim Hawkins.
P.S. I am happy to see that this newsletter is now
printed on recycled paper!
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
In reference to last week's paper, please be advised
that Rillifane De'Dannan is not my natural son by Masha
Corlan; he is the result of an alchemistic experiment
by the latter, using my blood to obtain the DNA
required. I call him my son, but natural he is not, and
no physical relationship was involved in his creation.
Thank you.
Lawrence Hawkins Windstrom
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
If we can track the reporter down, he will be chastised for such casual
journalism and for not double-checking his facts and see if he is willing
to offer an apology. We regret that you've been upset by this article and
the casual use of language by this cub reporter. Unfortunately, we can't
pay well enough to hire hardened, seasoned journalists. Peter Jennings
and Wolf Blitzer just laughed and tore up our offer letters.
And since when is this newsletter being printed on recycled paper! We'll
have to call out our two-bit, amublance chasing lawyers to hunt these
infringers of copyright down! Printed indeed... at least our office is
not directly killing trees... that's what you should rejoice over, you
old tree-hugger! We can't help it if our subscribers feel they have to
have something tangible in their hands.
-The Editor
___ ___
\ |--------------------------------------------------------| /
/__| Clan News |__\
'--------------------------------------------------------'
The Wardens of the King PK clan was formed on May 16, 2003.
The Wardens' purpose is to uphold the King's law and protect him and his
loyal subjects at all costs. Anyone intent on disrupting the peace will
be dealt with swiftly.
If you are interested in joining the Wardens of the King you should
contact Alashar with your name, level, etc. All serious applicants should
be willing to swear allegiance to the King.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Twenty Questions for Your Friendly Neighborhood Knight Templar, Part 2
11. Dontcha think this celibacy thing is overdoing it all a bit?
Tancred: Non. To devote one's life to Christ means to put no one else
first. Marriage is a sacred vow as is the vows to Christ, and
no man or woman should have to choose between the two in
degrees of loyalty. 'Tis either or the other, not both.
12. If I were a Knight Templar, would I have to give up women, men,
and wine? Sheep?
Trinity: Templars may surround themselves with as many men or women as
they wish...so long the company they keep with them is pure.
As for wine...well, everything in moderation, non?
Given the transient nature of the Templar, and the dedication
they must have, it may be recommended that shepherds find
someone else to care for their flock.
13. What do the Knights Templar think of witches and sorcerers?
Tancred: We hold in contempt only those who work their sorcery with
the intent to do harm. Those who would do good we would
rather save and redeem the souls of. To be their guides, not
their judge, is our role.
14. Do the Knights Templar approve of the witchcraft trials and
burnings?
Tancred: Fire is e'er the very last resort to purify a soul. Those who
need such harsh punishment will certainly receive it in Hell;
thus there be no reason for us to go about torching people
and making ourselves their judges in His place. Witch burning
is an invention of the Pauline monks, one of which we do not
approve.
Trinity: The Knights Templar are in the business of protecting and
saving, not burning. I, for one, am quite familiar with the
illusions of Puritan fanatics...for this reason, I have
a certain amount of sympathy for those burned for their
"crimes."
While we do not look...uuu...favorably upon witches, we do
not condone the burning of innocents, or recognize the
judgement of fools.
15. What's the difference between the Knights of Legend and the
Knights Templar?
Trinity: It might be looked at in terms of holy and secular. The
Knights of Legend, while noble, are distinct from we Templars
in that they are not affiliated with the Church. It also
seems that they, for whatever reason, find themselves doing
battle a bit more often than we.
16. Do the Knights Templar engage in playerkill?
Tancred: Each Chevalier and Confrere serves as he or she may best. To
some, this means fighting those who do the Devil's work; to
others, it means to heal and to instruct. Glory can be found
with the sword, certainly, but not only with the sword.
17. So what exactly do the Knights Templar DO?
Tancred: We go forth each day with Christ in our hearts, to assist
those in need, to guide those who require guidance, to battle
those who do harm until the Lord's faithful and the animal
kingdom, to be -- good. Each day is a quest, a step towards
perfection, a chance to lend a hand where needed.
Trinity: Well said, mon frere.
18. I'm a sniper, can I join the Knights Templar?
Trinity: I am not so certain I am familiar with this
"sniper." Though, we do not feel that anyone should be turned
down on account of their nationality, so long as they strive
to be noble of heart, pure of spirit, and clear-minded.
Tancred: Oui. Most of us would be at a loss if challenged to operate
such strange futuristic devices as snipers do use, but a
weapon is but a weapon. 'Tis the hand that uses it that
decides whether a weapon is of good or of evil, not the
nature of the weapon itself.
19. Okay, I want in, what should I do?
Tancred: Familiarize thyself to some extent with our writings as to be
found at http://prodigalstranger.nee.dk/legend.php -- and
then seek out either Sister Trinity or myself to discuss thy
application into the Knighthood.
20. Do I HAVE to speak French?
Tancred: Non. 'Tis a fact that most Knights Templar have been of
French or Norman origin, but 'tis certainly no requirement!
Trinity: I believe they are now mocking us, frere Tancred.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
There are currently 26 RP clans and 1 PK clan. This leaves open slots
for five (5) 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 guide for players interested in
starting and running a clan, we recommend that before you even type FORM,
you visit: http://www.legendmud.org/Reference/gm.html.
___ ___
\ |--------------------------------------------------------| /
/__| The PK Front |__\
'--------------------------------------------------------'
PKE Now Running Alongside PKOK
PKE was been turned on to run alongside PKOK on May 16th. It also now,
persists over crashes and reboots.
1. All old PKEnabled characters are unenabled upon login. We updated the
pfile versions to fix this. Anyone interested in using PKE will have
to get PKE enabled by an admin.
2. All PK clans were changed to RP clans. They can then change back
to PKE if they choose with the rp_to_pk command when they are ready.
3. For PK clans, the GM can use the CLANTIMER command to set a timer for
each clan member, including the GM, from 7 days to 60 days. Default is
20 days. If the member does not pk within the specified time, they are
automatically outcast from the clan.
4. PKE rules are back into affect. 1 PKE character per person. The level
35 limit on enabling will be waived for the first 2 months to allow
people to re-enable.
5. This is a 6 month trial. If it does not work out, it will be pulled.
Period. Success and failure depend on the following:
Number of PKE characters actively participating in pkill should be
greater than 15 on average. This is the current average of PKOK
participation.
Increase in admin/pr intervention due to complaints of crossplay or
harrassment.
PK clans, on average, should be at least as active as the most active
RP clan that also pkills.
Enough people need to adopt to PKE to make it worthwhile than the
argument we've given in the past - Get into 2 pk clans and accept each
other.
PKE will be pulled immediately if the admin/pr aspect gets out of hand,
or if there are insufficient people participating.
When enabling people, we will suggest people try PKOK first. If they
state that they are not new to pkill and wish to go right into PKE, then
it will be explained in the clearest terms that the ONLY ways out of PKE
are PERMADEATH and REDEMPTION. ** THERE WILL BE NO EXCEPTIONS **
Punishments for problems under PKE will be severe. We will not waste
admin time on petty squabbles. Deal with it in game, or get out of PKE
through redeem or perma. This will also be told to the newly enabled
players.
-Kaige
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Slight change in the format here. Instead of only listing PK clans, all
clan pkill activity is going to be reported on. A little more competition
should be healthy and also give recognition to those clans who are
actively out on the pkill front. If you want to see more detail than this
quickie run down, you're going to have to help by reporting on various
pkill happenings you either participate in or see happening.
The Infernals and Grendels tied once again with having the most members
active in pkill. The newly formed Wardens of the King came out swinging
as well with more than half of their members already involved in at least
one skirmish. Vae Victis and the Necromancers both had a pair of members
involved in pkill this week. The IRA, Knights of Legend and Clan Smashum
also saw individual members involved in battles this past week.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
In the past week there were 42 pk-related deaths involving 38 different
characters. Of those 38 characters, 24 of them were accept all at the
time. There were 2 pke vs pke battles that ended in death. There are 13
PKE characters total. So come on, let's get YOUR name up in lights! We
can't report on it if you don't tell us about it!
If you witnessed or commit 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 PK (not necessarily PK Clan related), send it
in! It's free AND you'll get a prize 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!!
_______________________
/ \
o O | Wonder what folks are |
`\|||/ | doing over at LegendMUD?|
(o o) \_______________________/
ooO_(_)_Ooo________________________________________________________________
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A letter addressed to Shelbi Jordan, with the return address of her
mother (Ellador Jordan), was delivered to the Grendel clanhall a day
earlier.
My Dearest Daughter,
I have not seen you in days, perhaps weeks and I am
worried. You have not sent word to me, or your father.
I only hear from your brother as to where you are, and
I try not to think of with whom you keep company.
Perhaps I should wonder who you are spending your days
with. That dark fellow, who is constantly being
attacked? I can only imagine his influence on you. I
hope you are not being hurt during his terrible
encounters. And Shelbi, is it true that you are
considering getting yourself pierced? Although not your
idea I am sure, this is completely unacceptable.
I do hope that you still wear the clothing I have
bought you, and you have not disregarded it for a
wardrobe more... revealing? I worry about the company
you keep. I just ask that you send a messenger to your
father and me that you are quite alright. And please do
not sleep in that strange man's house--the intrusions
late at night cannot be safe.
I know you see past the rumors that surround the
Grendels, but it does not make me worry any less. I
never thought I would say this, but perhaps you could
use to take after your brother a little bit.
Worrisome,
Mom
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Decisions made, Documents Required
'Beep beep!' this madman utters as he squeezes the nose of every passerby
whilst he waits for his love in the local tavern. It is his form of
greeting; although, often met with anger and violence. Why, he does not
know, nor does he even think about it. When met with hostility, his
reactions vary, sometimes he does not notice, other times he reacts
violently in return. Always though, he is hostile to any that 'beep'
another's nose. Brandishing a card marked 'MY LINE DAMNIT! MINE ALL
MINE!!,' it is quite obvious that he does not take kindly to people
beeping others, well, unless you are his friend. In which case, you can
beep him on his glowing red nose and he will just stand there, giggling.
On the outside he looks rather strange, wearing all sorts of clothes that
people do not usually wear, but for some reason, he seems to be quite
popular with the ladies. Some say it's because he wears things they have
never seen before, others say they just like his antennae. Whatever the
reason they all seem to adore him, but he seems quite oblivious to them
when one certain lady is in the room.
Hair, dark as a raven's feathers, flows down her neck as she walks toward
him. Gently squeezing his nose, she says the two magical words, (well
magical in his insane mind) 'Beep beep'. Immediately, she is welcomed by
him with a big hug as well as a beep to the nose. Shortly after arriving,
people start noticing her. After a short discussion amongst themselves,
they come to a conclusion.
Bravely, the allocated spokesman steps forward. Clearing his throat, he
proceeds,'Us village folk have 'ere decided that yous two can't be goin'
off gettin' married and the like, as well...' Pointing at the crazy man
he continues, 'Well firstly he's not fit to be goin' off gettin' married
and all. I mean ee's wako, crazy and all. You'd be needin' a doctor to be
sayin' he's fit to be wed. As for you dear lassie...(turning to face her,
he says to the raven-haired lady), You, well who knows why YOU would want
to be gettin' married and all! Especially to this crazy fella. I mean who
knows, you prolly be after 'is moneys or somthin'. Now we 'ere can't be
having that now, can we? So you gots to get a letter from us 'ere
magistrate sayin' you won't be buggerin' off or nothin'. Well with that
there said yous two bet'er 'ave 'em when yous to be wed, other wise yous
won't!'
After saying all he intended to say, the speaker takes a couple of paces
backward waiting for a reply. The raven-haired lady responds in an
accent not common to these parts, 'If that is required to be wed, then
that is what you shall have.'
Turning to her crazy friend, she whispers as she nibbles on his neck,
'Isn't that right, love?'
Having tuned out after about the second word that came out of the
spokesman's mouth, the madman looks a bit confused at what she says and
so just nods and smiles. She turns back to the spokesman saying, 'See,
we'll get them, don't you worry.'
Tugging on his hand and brushing his lips with a kiss, she says, "Come
on, there's more fun to be had...(looking about at the collection of
villagers) Elsewhere..."
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Chain of the Past
Her emerald eyes almost shone in the moonlight as she looked out over the
field. He watched her, silently, as her fingers rubbed his arm lightly.
He always enjoyed sitting on the terrace with her because she always
found new things to be amazed by. Sometimes it was lightning bugs that
would blink here and there, making her smile and giggle. At other times
it was an owl, flying on silent wings, searching for its prey that would
keep her in awe, watching the wonder of God's creation. This night it was
an animal, though they were not sure what it was, as only the silhouette
could be seen. She watched intently, waiting and hoping for the creature
to come into the patch of moonlight, but the creature always seemed to
avoid it. He looked at her eyes again as they scanned the fields, missing
almost nothing, even in the dark of night. His mind began to wander to a
simpler, easier time.
He saw his mother, her long, raven colored hair, which he had inherited,
braided down her back. She was scolding a small boy for running off after
dark. He smiled, as he remembered the scolding well. He had followed a
dog out into the night and had gotten lost, but had been able to wander
back, after a while. His mother scolded him harshly, and then hugged him
fiercely and cried. He had felt bad, then, that he had made his mother
cry, and that feeling had not changed, even after all these years. She
had told him that he was all she had, and all she cared about. He knew
that she exaggerated a little, because there was a man that she always
smiled and laughed around, and that was not something that was normal for
her. He was a lean man, but had strong, yet kind eyes, and he was always
friendly to him and his mother. He was a knight, or at least he dressed
like one, in a suit of black chainmail. The knight would sit for hours in
their small house, telling stories of new lands he had visited, and
battles he had fought in. And through it all, his mother never stopped
smiling. He was happy that she was happy, but the knight moved on after a
while, off to find new adventures. He would visit some, but never stayed
long, and his mother would go back to being solemn and working long
hours...
'Are you alright?' the young woman asked.
He blinked, and realized that his face felt a little wet, as a tear
rolled down his face. 'Yes, love, I will be fine, just thinking about
something...'
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Documents Required, Documents Found
The alleys wound in and out and Jessie began to wonder if Archaon had
gotten the right address for the esteemed doctor.
'Are you sure we are in the right place?'
'Say 1723 Leighton Place. See?' He hands her the card.
They turned once more and almost fell over the doctor's step. The sign
hanging above the door, stated: Mike Wazowski, MD. Jessie opened the
door and they stepped inside. The office had the usual furniture - a
couple leather chairs, a desk and an old, cranky looking receptionist.
Looking over the rim of her glasses, a lady wearing a nametag labeling
her Roz, said, 'What do YOU want?'
A beeping madman hands Roz an appointment card indicating a 12pm
appointment. Roz just nodded.
A few moments later, a bell dinged. Roz looked up and said, 'You may
enter now.'
She pointed to the door, leading to an inner office. Jessie and Archaon
started forwarded.
'Not you!,' Roz exclaimed, giving a raven-haired bandit the evil eye.
'You can sit right there and WAIT!'
Jessie slid down into her seat, looking a might bit scared for all the
fearless bandit that she is. A beeping madman leaned down and pressed a
feather light kiss to her lips. Before nodding to himself, Archaon
quickly whispered to Jessie, 'If she eat, I beat till she spit out.'
Archaon then entered the doctor's office.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
'Hello, Archaon. I am Mike Wazowski,' he said as he extended his hand.
Archaon beeped the outstretched hand not quite sure what else to do with
it.
'You can have a seat. I understand you are in need of an evaluation to
be sure you are fit to be married. Is that correct?'
A beeping madman shrugged, thinking he used much too many big words.
Being as that is what Archaon paid for, the doctor began to ask questions
and take notes.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
In the waiting room, Jessie stood and started towards the door to see if
she could find a bar to skulk about. 'Where are you going? Did I say YOU
could leave?' Roz boomed. 'Just sit back down and wait!'
Jessie sunk back into her seat to wait. After an eternity (or maybe just
an hour), a beeping madman came out of the office, followed by a short
man wearing a green suit. Handing Roz a page of scribbled notes, he asked
her to transcribe his notes into a document, detailing Archaon's mental
capacity to choose marriage.
'Roz will be finished with your paperwork this afternoon by 5pm, if you'd
like to stop by then.'
Jessie jumped up from her chair and thanked Dr. Wazowski, grabbing
Archaon's hand, she all but ran from the office. Outside, she tugged
Archaon along to the nearest bar for a drink. After having successfully
acquired six rounds of rum, Jessie was ready to face the next
challenge... the lawyer's office, which luckily was not far away.
Winding through a few more alleys, they reached the law offices of
Randall & Son. Jessie hiccupped as they went inside. They were ushered
inside Randall's office to review the prenuptial agreement. A beeping
madman glanced at the document briefly, looking for a place to sign.
Randall spoke hastily, pulling the document back before Archaon had a
chance sign, 'You can't have read it all already?'
'Doesn't matter, I loves. Good 'nuff. Lemme sign!' Archaon muttered,
obviously lacking true intelligence. Signing all documents, Randall
looked to Jessie, who was viewing him through slightly bleary eyes.
'Sign where?' she asked before scribbling her name on the lines.
Randall collected payment for his services and gave them a copy of the
prenuptial agreement. With that, they departed the office before stopping
at Dr. Wazowski's office to retrieve the paperwork that proclaims Archaon
sane enough to marry.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
From Prelude Into Symphony, PART II
A sudden scampering sound and the barreling through the streets of
several camels, yelling merchants, and frightened women led the way for a
rather excited-looking young boy and an equally enthusiastic salamander
on a make-shift leash.
The stranger watched as her startled face broke into a huge grin. She was
so beautiful when she smiled.
'MahWyn, look!' Rillifane pointed proudly at Sparky, who was dragging
them both directly towards MoiraGwyn.
'Rillie, why is Sparky on a leash? He doesn't need one love, except maybe
when we visit the sultan.'
'He alway' go so fast,' Rillifane panted, trying to catch his breath.
'Now I c'n keep up!'
She hesitated, debating whether or not she should tell him Sparky might
set fire to the twine leash at any moment just by sneezing. She cast a
concerned glance at Sparky who had already dropped to the floor and
flopped across her feet. He peered up to return her gaze,as if knowing
instinctively what she worried of. For a moment she marveled at the
reality of the creature and how his innocent facade of being some form of
animal so easily hid his true intelligence. It was no wonder Rowane
treasured him from such a young age.
She lifted Rillifane into her arms and twirled him around, smattering
tiny kisses all over his face until he giggled.
A nudge at her calf called attention to a large, rather puppy-eyed
salamander who wanted attention too. The stranger simply stared wide-eyed
as as the Queen winked mischievously at the small boy and the two flopped
onto the floor and began to roughhouse with Sparky.
'That... I mean it doesn't act like a fire Salamander,' He motioned
towards Sparky.
Queen MoiraGwyn glanced up, embarrassed.
'I am so sorry, how rude I must seem to you- to drop our conversation
such way!' She got to her feet, brushing herself off. 'Please do forgive
me, they require so much attention sometimes and I never wish them to
feel like I do not have time for them.' Her cheeks were lightly flushed
and her head was bowed slightly, as if she was due a scolding.
Her apology was so sincere he was a bit taken aback.
'Your highness,' He stressed the title. 'You owe me no explanation. I am
graced with your presence, not the other way around.' He stared almost
imploringly at her, his eyes a crystaline blue.
'As you were saying.. Employment,' Her back straightened as she
self-consciously went to acting more proper. 'We have no chancellor right
now but if you have a resume' and can list what you wish to apply for, we
would certainly look over it.' She edged a section of hair back from her
shoulder. He watched, not realizing until now that she had her hair down
and not in the braid.
'I don't have one offhand but I will draw one up as soon as possible and
have it delivered.'
'If you let me know when, you can drop it by yourself and I will try and
be home so I can look over it at the time and discuss it with you.'
He stayed still and quiet, stunned that he was just invited into the
castle. He had no response but to smile broadly and nod his head at her.
'Alright, hope to hear from you then,' She took Rillifane's hand in hers.
'And thank you... For the help with the herbs bag.' They both giggled.
'You do seem somehow... Familiar,' She pondered him thoughtfully.
'The bog. You rescued me from that bog in near Tara. And I think we have
met in passing before as well,' He was worried about voicing the
'coincidences' so openly to her.
'Oh, yes I recall that now!' She grinned, recalling his rescue-
particularly the part where he screamed for help. She had seen him around
before a few times. She turned to her pet, 'Let's go get some food,
Sparky.'
She turned and headed up the street with the child, leaving behind a
salamander and it's forgotten leash.
The stranger turned to look at Sparky, only to find the creature was
suddenly very close to him and appeared to be... examining him? He stood
still, nervously eyeing Sparky.
The royal pet raised it's head to meet the gaze of the strange man
talking to MoiraGwyn. His scent was familiar, as was he. Seen many a
times by Sparky, often cloaked in transparency. But not known to attack
Rowane or his comrades, not known to lurk about so much as... watching
MoiraGwyn.
Their eyes met, making no mistake that both knew a bit about each other
and were unsure what to make of each others actions.
MoiraGwyn's guardian made a drawn out move of sniffing about the man's
body and meeting his eyes again. He prodded the strangers chest with his
nose.
'I mean her no harm,' The man's whisper was nervous, fearful even, but he
kept contact with Sparky's eyes. 'I would never intentionally hurt her.'
But Sparky was not just MoiraGwyn's guardian, but Rowane's as well, and
there was some concern that if one was not hurt, what of the other? The
stranger's scent betrayed nothing that would show cause to keep him at bay
just yet.
He prodded the man's chest again with his snout, claws scratching lightly
in the dirt, a tiny hiss and a small outward sniff causing smoke to drift
from his nostrils. A threatening motion save for the fact that his eyes
were gentle and reserved.
'I promise..' Shakey words from a man standing so stiff, afraid to move.
Only his eyes showed his feelings and worries.
Sparky stepped back, tail whipping around lightly, eyes still on this man
who spoke to MoiraGwyn. He waited until the stranger took a hesitant step
up the road and fell in line beside him, walking quietly.
At the bend in the road that neared the castle, Sparky slowed and let the
man continue on by himself. He snorted at a gate guard, who opened up
enough to let him through. He trotted on in, leash dragging behind him.
Following the sound of children talking, he located his family in the
great room.
The 'Joe' thing appeared to be trying to suck beer from a tap in the keg
and the Queen was at the table with both Rillifane and Mok-Mok. There
appeared to be a roasted chicken involved.
Sparky climbed up into the seat that was usually Rowane's and rested
there, watching them.
'He will be home soon, worry not,' He had caught attention and was
thought to be pining in Rowane's chair as MoiraGwyn sometimes will do
when lonely for her husband.
In truth, he did miss Rowane but his stance was as a protector of the
family and he took the seat he thought most fitting at that moment, since
the King was not at home. The adoration between the master and mistress
of the house was untarnished, as it should be, and nothing was to
threaten to seperate. He was going to be sure of that.
He snorted and snuffled his request for a drumstick and decided that he
would keep a closer eye on things.
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