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Horrifying bolt of electricity turns chest into a smoking pulp of flesh.
Horrifying bolt of electricity turns chest into a smoking pulp of flesh.
No life left there.
No life left there.

{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = War of Nations
| messagenum = 255
| author = SIMU-MELISSA
| date = 1/6/2003 3:03:54 PM
| subject = Sharing Information about the "War of Nations"
}}
One of the biggest obstacles in running a long-term event, is keeping the population at large informed about specific occurrences and plot developments as they happen. All too often players are unaware of events that transpire and as a result, they simply loose track of the storyline. This leads to their feeling uninvolved, and they quickly loose interest. This can be referred to as "A Bad Thing".
Generally, our goal when we provide a longterm event is to involve as many people as possible. We would be perfectly thrilled if every single player had a part in the event and actively followed the storyline. (Yes, I realize this is unrealistic, but hey, lofty goals can only help us to improve, right!) ;-)

In the past we've tried to aid information tracking by:

* creating in-game "message boards" (which were too small to serve as a review of an entire storyline)
* create and update webpages (which took so much staff time, that they were distracted from actually RUNNING the event)
* creating in-game newspapers (which don't receive enough submissions to keep proper track of storylines, although it has merits of it's own)
* creating special topics and/or categories in the message boards (which receive so much traffic discussing the merits of the event that the actual storyline gets lost)

For the War of Nations, we will be employing some of these methods, but we're also going to try something new. We've had a long partnership with Adam Brown (aka Spunn) who brought GemStone Radio to life. Now, we're going to renew that partnership in order to bring you more information about the War of Nations, via his new website http://www.gs3news.com (GemStone III News.)

His new website is currently tracking all GS3 information, however, in a week or so, he'll be releasing some additional tools to track events, and the War of Nations storylines specifically. As our GMs update our websites, create newspaper articles, and post on our forums, we'll send Spunn copies of all the information so that he can add them to his website. However, this project will only work if you, the players, help by reporting the news and information about the War of Nations that you come across to Spunn, as well. Spunn's team will then be able to collect the information and distribute it in such a way that the storyline updates are maintained, allowing the users to add comments on individual happenings, while our forums can be used for "general discussion" of the event itself.

Together, by cooperating and sharing resources, tools, and information, we can make this the most inclusive event GemStone III has ever seen.

Thank you for your help and may the War of Nations be as much fun for everyone as we envision. ;-)

Melissa

PS Spunn has assured me that he can also provide tracking for the Platinum events, which will not be entirely the same as the Prime events.

This message was originally posted in Quests, Sagas, and Events, War of Nations. TO discuss the above follow the LINK below.

http://www.play.net/forums/messages.asp?forum=30&CATEGORY=6&TOPIC=40&MESSAGE=539


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| subject = Teeny Update
| subject = Teeny Update
}}
}}

Clan Leader Wynoza came out of her office tonite.
Clan Leader Wynoza came out of her office tonite.


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That would be bad.
That would be bad.

(MG)

{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = WoN: Quakes in Zul Logoth
| messagenum = 106
| author = SIWAS
| date = 3/9/2003 9:47:44 AM
| subject = Re: Possible red rot case discovered.
}}
Other dwarves are becoming sick.. I spoke with one this evening in Ta'Illistim, who claimed not to have been in Zul Logoth for a month. During the conversation, the person in question complained of a scratchy throat, then began sneezing several times in succession.. this was followed by coughing.

Attempting to cast undisease on them brought them a moment's respite, then just intensified the coughing. I also noticed them scratching at themselves, though they passed it off as nothing.

I haven't named the person, since I'm sure it will become evident who it is as the illness grows worse.

Whatever's come out of those fissures is spreading beyond Zul Logoth now.

Siwas, glad she's not a dwarf

Re: Possible red rot case discovered. · on 3/9/2003 11:48:25 AM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 115


Okay so there's red dust and a big hole in Zul. Nobody quite knows what to make of it.

The dwarves who are getting sick have either been through Zul or not and are either in Illistim or not. What about other towns? Landing, maybe?

Dwarves returning from Maelshyve brought Red Rot with them. Red Rot was believed to be caused by Despana's magic and infected strong and weak dwarves. It can also be spread from dwarf to dwarf, there was no cure found, and it decimated Kalaza in a matter of weeks.

Now dwarves are spread out, and well-travelled. What will happen? Does it truly matter where it started at this point? Can anything be done?

There's a journal in the museum from a Dusk Mountain clanner, about Maelshyve. Does this clan still exist? I didn't see where it did. (Makes sense, of course, if that's the Kalaza clan). Is there or would there still be a clan connection with this new outbreak?

Also, there were quakes in Zul. Now quakes in Illistim I've heard. Would this comet be getting close enough to cause these? Perhaps in the mountains first, elevation and all that? (I'm no geology or whatever expert, that's for sure) I wonder what seven levels of hell might open up in the elven nations, if they get holes.

Again, these are only my player musings for the boards. I'd suggest you think clearly about whether your character would know squat about this, especially if you're not of dwarven persuasion. :)


(MG)
(MG)
Re: Possible red rot case discovered. · on 3/9/2003 1:55:19 PM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 124


Druskil's also been showin odd signs.

And Clan Leader Wynoza came out of her office again today. Had a long talk with townsfolk.

1) Going to get some engineers to shore up the caves, due to the big hole, could be unsafe.

2) She's obviously worried about the sickness now. SEems to think it's red rot. (4 out of 5 dwarves agree, it's red rot)

3) She's not sure if it's dwarf-only. Anything's possible.

4) She doesn't think it's a good idea for folks to be travelling, could spread the disease. Was rather bothered by Regyy's flight to Illistim.

5) She'll be back in a few days with her engineers, and for more talkin.

6) Oh and she's trying to get the dust cleaned up, but there's just too much and it's too sticky.

I'm sure I missed some things. Will think about it more later.

(MG)


BOGARRAGOB
phase master
Quakes again...... · on 3/9/2003 4:01:07 PM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 134


I few minor quakes were felt today, small ones. They were like the ones first felt durning the begining of the last quakes.

Dust now falls from the ceiling, in the monument room. (since the ceiling is coated from dust spewing out)

A bit of dust falls on one of the sputtering torches. The flame flares wildly for a moment, then subsides. An odd odor fills the air.

GS3-BRADACH
Djinn
Re: Possible red rot case discovered. · on 3/9/2003 11:25:47 PM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 144


>>>Now dwarves are spread out, and well-travelled. What will happen? Does it truly matter where it started at this point? Can anything be done?<<<

Good questions. Each of them has an equally good answer. I'm fond of questions. The poet Carl Sandburg was once asked "What question would the last person on earth ask?" His answer: "Where is everybody?"

Seems appropriate, doesn't it.

Bradach

KERRUISHR
Vari
Re: Possible red rot case discovered. · on 3/10/2003 9:01:51 AM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 148


>Well... that's not the same impression I got. At least she was concerned that the dust could be stuck to travellers, and that way carried. So anyone/thing could be a "carrier". I don't think she was saying that people could be carriers in the medical sense, of course. But that's probably possible too.<

Your right, here is a couple snippets from the conversation:

You say, "So it seems only dwarves can catch it."
You say, "But can other carry it."
Xulia says, "I dint carry no dust nowhare.."
Wynoza says, "Itsa sticky though.."
Wynoza nods to Xulia.
Wynoza says, "Mighta stick on yer boots and ya not know it"
You ask, "So ya think one of us others could cause a dwarf to catch it?"
Wynoza says, "I dunno that.."
Wynoza says, "Dunno how it be spread, ceptin by other dwarfs"

So basically whether or not non dwarves can cause others to catch it is still up in the air.


{{saved-post
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Guarrin
Guarrin

{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
| messagenum = 327
| author = SRCSANT
| date = 4/27/2003 3:28:02 PM
| subject = Re: Jantalarian scouts II
}}
Hail citizens! As I was part of the crew helpin to extract information from the scouts last night, I did my best to preserve what they did and said. Mind you, there was a bit of commotion, binding, disarming, insults and such so I just extracted what might be useful to know in terms of information. For your perusal:

>>A Jantalarian scout struggles to move. Finding his actions fruitless, he bellows a shout! "Comrades, to me! I cannot move!"<<

>>A Jantalarian scout struggles to move, spitting a vile oath before growling,"When I get out of this, your head is mine!"<<

>>A Jantalarian scout grabs a stunned scout and drags his compatriot west!<<

>>A Jantalarian scout reaches down and jerks a Jantalarian scout upright.<<

>>A scout growls, "We ain't warriors, we're jus' scouts. When our main force arrives an' the crystal with it, your silly little town will become part of Jantalar!"<<

>>A scout mutters, "You live with unhuman filth, soon you start to think like them. We'll clean out your mess of a town once we take it!"<<

>>Two blood-drenched healers rush in with a litter. Hoisting the scout's corpse between them, the men quickly retreat.<<

>>The scout growls, "You breed like the vermin you are, mixing your blood with unhumans. You'll all die like them too!"<<

>>A Jantalarian scout gives Folina a hard, steely glare and says, "Give you one chance to throw down your weapon 'fore I split you noggin to navel."<<

>>A Jantalarian scout growls at Darra, "When you skedaddle back t' that pit ya crawled out of, tell yer pals that we're gonna have Malwind's head on a pike no matter, but we're more'n happy t' spill yer blood right along side 'im!"<<

~Kriztian's player.

{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
| messagenum = 332
| author = CRYHEART
| date = 4/27/2003 10:25:11 PM
| subject = Re: Jantalarian scouts II
}}
Jantalarian scouts were seen about the Elven village again later tonight on the 27th of Olaesta. The Order of the Silver Gryphons left to engage the scouts and we were joined by several citizens of the Landing. This time the scouts were accompanied by Jantalarian swordsmen, who knew warrior skills. So be careful when engaging the swordsmen. We also discovered with the aid of Bisco and Brimzstone that the anti-magic field had extended northward from the great statue to two other rooms at the least.

Cryheart Thaxin

{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
| messagenum = 344
| author = SRCSANT
| date = 4/28/2003 8:55:30 PM
| subject = Re: Jantalarian scouts II
}}
It is also very conceivable that they drag them far away enough from the crystal's influence to do their thing. As of late last night, the anti-magic field had grown to encompass most of the Hidden Settlement. They are very close.

~Kriztian's player.

{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
| messagenum = 375
| author = DELPHIUS
| date = 5/4/2003 11:22:01 PM
| subject = Invasion by sea
}}
The Jantalarians dug up an old cog and sailed onto the south wharf in the landing with it. The first one on board was quickly outnumbered by the jants and called for help, her cries reached the haven instead of the landing and a team consisting of myself Elundil and Mekthros went up north to investigate. We entered the ship and were quickly surronded by forces consisting of plunderers infantrymen, and some other various Jantalarians. After Several short but fierce battles we were joined by some landing folks and Elundil was struck down. We quickly regrouped as more help arrived from both the landing and some from the Haven as well, and searched the ship quickly and throughoughly for any and all remaining jantalarians. Of the group that traveled with me I only know of two casulties, Elundil and I believe the other was someone named Purplynyte.from the landing fell. However the death rate for the Jants was much higher as Blocks of ice pelted the from maelstrom's conjured up, they coulnt stay on the feet from the waves washing them over, and not to mention the multiple sword blades takin out eye, ears, limbs, heads and anything else we could find. The ship was quickly cleared, and the havenites returned home. The ship I should mention was barely staying afloat, ripped apart as it was to convert it from a cargo carrier to a troop carrier, and so wasnt worth it for me to fight to claim sea rights to it.

Seablade and Seablaede
The Ashrim

{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
| messagenum = 400
| author = SRCSANT
| date = 5/9/2003 2:02:37 AM
| subject = Re: Invasion by sea
}}
Footknights and a few knights have made their appearance in Tree Spirits, as well as spots in Upper Trollfang. Expect more.

~Kriztian. Member, Silver Gryphons. Captain, Protectors of the Citadel.

{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
| messagenum = 427
| author = GS3-MIKOS
| date = 5/14/2003 1:24:02 AM
| subject = Re: The Invasion: Requests (OOC)
}}
Kinshack, thanks for the suggestions. Sometimes it's reassuring to find out that what we have in the works is what folks are looking for. I'll respond to a few of the suggestions, though, because in some cases I wasn't sure exactly what is expected or there seems to be a misperception.

<< 2) Give us a sense of reward when fighting back. So far, no matter how quickly and efficiently we've dispatched the incoming hoard, they still end up pushing the front of the mandis further. This more or less gives us a sense of uselessness. Our engagement of the enemy is doing nothing whatsoever to impede their progress. As a player, I feel no sense of accomplishment after clearing out a hoard of Jantalarians because nothing comes of it.>>

I agree that there is likely little sense of accomplishment at this point, and I recognize that that is something we need to address in some form. However, the advance of the soldiers isn't what makes the advancing of the antimagic field possible, rather it is the other way around. The Jantalarians have tried to time their advances as the crystal's field advances, unfortunately for them, and perhaps fortunately for those who fight with spells, usually the foremost soldiers overreach the crystal's range and wind up at a disadvantage.

<< 3) Give some more personality to the knights. We've seen two knights that spoke so far, and they were both about as tactful and witty as backwater hicks. This is quite the contrast to their automated messaging, wherein they speak in high court tongue (with thees and thous). I don't understand why the knight would suddenly revert to a callous slurred speech to taunt us. More personality. Do Jantalarians truly lack a survival instinct? >>

Have you tried typing out 16th century Queen's English in the very limited time span that has passed during these encounters? I have, and I have ended up having to clear the text buffer each time when the knight ends up dead before I can type out an off-the-cuff answer to a particular question with Thees and Thous included. I would observe that the PCs' comments to the Jantalarians tend more towards the "Die maggots!", "Die fools!" and "Why are you here?" types of comments which I think are fine, but which I would suggest take considerably less time to type out. I do realize that the Jantalarian knights' scripted comments are more along the lines of court speech, but 1) I don't have a reasonable means to remove that aspect during the invasions and 2) I don't have enough experience speaking court speak to be able to produce it quickly at the keyboard, also 3) they're at war now and likely are emotionally charged. I like the scripted speaking manner they have, but it is very difficult to produce cleanly in a time-limited battlefield situation.

<< 7) Some explanation of what the heck happened the night the cog attacked. Where the heck did the Jantalarians get access to a crappy cargo ship? Why did they even TRY? They got so slaughtered it wasn't even funny. Can we take advantage of the cog somehow, or is it just going to sit an unused asset in our harbor indefinitely? >>

Short of a baronial audience in Solhaven, I'm not sure where you would expect an explanation to come from. Baron Malwind's agents might possess some of the information you're interested in, but certainly the Jantalarians would have no reason to provide any. As far as why they tried and the fact that they were badly beaten goes, I would suggest that history is full of accounts of military debacles and missions that went utterly wrong. Perhaps there was more to the situation than met the eye, but again there is no real means of finding out for sure short of chatting with Lerep over a cup of tea after this is all over. And what can be done with the cog...? Given that you can't sail to Jantalar I don't know that there is much use that can be put to it as far as the immediate situation goes, but that still leaves a lot of potential.

<< 9) Any news from Malwind, or the local authorities of the Landing, the Town Guard, or anyone? Anyone out there? Anyone? Anyone? >>

Baron Malwind was holding public audiences about every two weeks when the events centered around Solhaven. Likely he will be holding one again soon since Jantalar's aggressions inevitably affect Vornavis in one way or another. As far as local authorities of the Landing go, I've never understood them to be more than desk-sitters and bribe-takers, and the Town Guard isn't going out to the Elven Village to fight Jantalarians, so they likely don't know as much about the situation as those PCs who have been fighting. Part of the Landing's current situation is due to the fact that there is no single recognized authority that is responsible for speaking for the town or making decisions on its behalf, so there is no overlord to hold an audience or direct agents.

Again, thanks for the observations and the suggestions. We appreciate the feedback and a better idea of what event participants are looking for and expecting.

- Mikos
{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = WoN: Czag Dubra
| messagenum = 405
| author = MURPHYB02
| date = 5/15/2003 12:54:32 PM
| subject = New Leader?
}}
Trudok was around for a bit last night, and in between throwing thorns at each other, we exchanged a few words. Apparently the Krol Council has not appointed a new leader yet, and the Krol (on Teras) are awaiting word. Trudok actually mentioned that he hopes to be chosen. I have to wonder how the other Krol on the Isle will react, or which others of the Krol have their eye on the title of Czag.

Regardless, they are still intent on the takeover of Teras. From what the Krol have been saying, the assault on Teras has only just begun.

Murp

{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic = The Platinum Rings
| messagenum = 473
| author =
| date = 7/20/2003 11:10:10 AM
| subject = A letter from Shetal
}}
Greetings and falicitations,

Due to the goings ons in the landing, I fear we must wait until such time the town has been re-taken by its residents. After which, we will all gather at the Museum for a special unveiling.

Be careful and travel safely.

Shetal.


{{saved-post
| category = Quests, Sagas, and Events
| topic =
| messagenum =
| author = Kriztian
| date = 7/24/2003 11:10:10 AM
| subject = Hendor and Vornavis armies arrive to fight Jantalarians!
}}Actually, Emporer Aurmont ordered Hochstib to return the mandis crystals to him untainted (Hochstib acquired them from the previous Empress). This order came down before the Jants had actually taken the landing. Hochstib shrugged the order off, hence the appearance of the Hendorians (Jovery's men) and the Vornavians (Malwind's men). But indirectly since returning the crystals untainted meant Hochstib needed to at least return the crystals, which would have brought about the death of his soldiers rather quickly I'd think.

Latest revision as of 14:51, 10 August 2022

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 249
Author: SIMU-MELISSA
Date: 12/19/2002 3:03:25 PM
Subject: The War of Nations

In later times historians would call the year 5103 a dark year; a year fraught with chaos and strife. It began simply enough, with the arrival of a blue-tailed comet. For the Trolls, the comet was an augury that called forth half-remembered prophecies and legends. The Krolvin hailed the celestial event as a harbinger of victories to come. The Elves looked upon it with little more than mild intellectual curiosity. To the Empress of the Turamzzyrian Empire, beginning her tenth year on the throne, the comet was a sign of the blessing of the gods. But to her vassal, the Baron Hochstib... it meant war.

Coming in January 2003, GemStone III presents: "The War of Nations"

Melissa

This message was originally posted in Quests, Sagas, and Events, War of Nations. TO discuss the above follow the LINK below.

http://www.play.net/forums/messages.asp?forum=30&CATEGORY=6&TOPIC=40&MESSAGE=215

What is happening to Teras? · on 1/2/2002 4:21:58 PM

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: Terror on Teras
Message #: 1
Author: MOD-GSYSBAIL
Date: 1/2/2002 4:21:58 PM
Subject: What is happening to Teras?

Scrolls delivered by herald to the Elven and Human empires from the Dwarven High Council give indication something might be brewing on Teras Isle. A dictation from one of the Kharam Dzu miners was enclosed:

"Twere jus like any 'udder mernin' shift that I hasdt fer der lass fifteen yers. Me, ma pick and m' buddies went ta 'erk in the shafts near the base of dat volcano. Nuffin' special 'appen fers a bit til I swing my pick, likes I hads hundreds of utter times . . . and bam! the groun' shooks. We all luk aroun' fer a bit, but nuffin' else happen fer awhile so bak ta 'erk we went. A bit of time pass den da ground shooks again! Somefin is definitely wrong with V'tull's belly. Mehaps he hadn't eaten enough ...." trailing off into other dwarven gibberish.

All signs point to the volcano, taking up most of the land mass of Teras Isle, coming to life and causing a bit of concern for the main Dwarven town.

What do you think?

--Ysbail Board Moderator

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: Terror on Teras
Message #: 18
Author: DANCLASS99
Date: 1/3/2002 3:22:12 PM
Subject: Shakey shakey messaging for those who didnt see

Several plumes of smoke drift up from the volcano and disperse into the air. Faint rumbles in the earth are soon felt after.

Large rocks tumble down from the volcano as the ground shudders briefly.

An eerie calm wafts into the surrounding area as the melody of wildlife dwindles to nothingness. Soon, a soft tremor spreads through the ground, scattering loose bits of soil.

Wisps of smoke rise up from the rim of the volcano, dancing sinuously into the sky before dissipating into nothing.

These all happened in about a minutes time I'm told, at around 3:00 pm central today.

1/9/2002

A dark fiery-robed figure hurls a powerful lightning bolt at you!
AS: +949 vs DS: +627 with AvD: +39 + d100 roll: +42 = +403
... and hits for 222 points of damage!
Horrifying bolt of electricity turns chest into a smoking pulp of flesh.
No life left there.
Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 255
Author: SIMU-MELISSA
Date: 1/6/2003 3:03:54 PM
Subject: Sharing Information about the "War of Nations"

One of the biggest obstacles in running a long-term event, is keeping the population at large informed about specific occurrences and plot developments as they happen. All too often players are unaware of events that transpire and as a result, they simply loose track of the storyline. This leads to their feeling uninvolved, and they quickly loose interest. This can be referred to as "A Bad Thing". Generally, our goal when we provide a longterm event is to involve as many people as possible. We would be perfectly thrilled if every single player had a part in the event and actively followed the storyline. (Yes, I realize this is unrealistic, but hey, lofty goals can only help us to improve, right!) ;-)

In the past we've tried to aid information tracking by:

  • creating in-game "message boards" (which were too small to serve as a review of an entire storyline)
  • create and update webpages (which took so much staff time, that they were distracted from actually RUNNING the event)
  • creating in-game newspapers (which don't receive enough submissions to keep proper track of storylines, although it has merits of it's own)
  • creating special topics and/or categories in the message boards (which receive so much traffic discussing the merits of the event that the actual storyline gets lost)

For the War of Nations, we will be employing some of these methods, but we're also going to try something new. We've had a long partnership with Adam Brown (aka Spunn) who brought GemStone Radio to life. Now, we're going to renew that partnership in order to bring you more information about the War of Nations, via his new website http://www.gs3news.com (GemStone III News.)

His new website is currently tracking all GS3 information, however, in a week or so, he'll be releasing some additional tools to track events, and the War of Nations storylines specifically. As our GMs update our websites, create newspaper articles, and post on our forums, we'll send Spunn copies of all the information so that he can add them to his website. However, this project will only work if you, the players, help by reporting the news and information about the War of Nations that you come across to Spunn, as well. Spunn's team will then be able to collect the information and distribute it in such a way that the storyline updates are maintained, allowing the users to add comments on individual happenings, while our forums can be used for "general discussion" of the event itself.

Together, by cooperating and sharing resources, tools, and information, we can make this the most inclusive event GemStone III has ever seen.

Thank you for your help and may the War of Nations be as much fun for everyone as we envision. ;-)

Melissa

PS Spunn has assured me that he can also provide tracking for the Platinum events, which will not be entirely the same as the Prime events.

This message was originally posted in Quests, Sagas, and Events, War of Nations. TO discuss the above follow the LINK below.

http://www.play.net/forums/messages.asp?forum=30&CATEGORY=6&TOPIC=40&MESSAGE=539

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 259
Author: SIMU-MELISSA
Date: 1/17/2003 12:11:48 AM
Subject: Reporter's Initiative

"Baron Hochstib chopped off my best friend's head!"

"Troll kings desecrated the temple!"

"Part of the comet fell out of the sky and flattened Helga!"

With the arrival of the War of Nations, rumors are sure to be flying. In order to keep fact straight from fiction, and to make sure everyone has access to the facts, we at Simutronics are pleased to present the Reporter's Initiative.

Players of GemStone have long been rewarded with roleplaying awards as a sign of appreciation for good roleplaying in Elanthia. Posting the latest events on the boards is often a hard task with little thanks. Well, we want to thank you!

The GemStone News site, http://www.gs3news.com, will be hosting information about the upcoming War of Nations. To demonstrate how much we appreciate it when people give their time and effort to make other people aware of events in Elanthia, we will be rewarding people who write summaries of news events for the War of Nations with small experience awards. These awards will be very much like standard roleplaying experience awards: they will combine a small amount of experience with a temporary multiplier to enhance your experience gain. Joe Axe may be off smiting ogres while you participate in a roleplaying event, but you could gain even more experience than he does, and having twice the fun too!

Whenever something occurs related to the War of Nations, write a summary of the event within 24 hours of the occurrence and submit it through the GS3News website. The organizers of the website will search through the submissions and select the two most detailed, best-written summaries. Those two summaries will be edited for grammar and spelling and then posted on the GS3News website, and then the authors of those summaries will receive experience awards. What's not to like about it? Nothing!

So, get out there! Keep your eyes open, your ears pricked, and your pen ready, because the next War of Nations event, whether it's big or small, could be right around the corner... and then you could be the one sitting smug and happy with an experience award to boost your learning and brighten your day.

~ The War of Nations Team

Category: Towns, Cities and villages
Topic: Teras Isle
Message #: 732
Author: Fiendwish/Prospera
Date: 1/12/2003 9:12:18 AM
Subject: Re: Information Please

Avregrol, the power-crazed fire elemental, was the terror on Teras. Seems he'd latched onto one of four sentient jewels that were attuned to the elements and that were capable of corrupting their possessor with visions of grandeur. Avregol and the "fier'dracus," as the gem was called, were causing all sorts of havoc as they exploited the belly of the volcano. Nelemar, the benevolent water elemental struggled to maintain the Balance and led us to destroy the nasty gem and release Avregol from its grip.

Now, also interspersed in this battle with Avergol, were some vishmiir, and a search for a piece of the Griffin Sword. It was quite a heady time.

Cford23 Aye, twas a heady time indeed. Ah twas poor Nelemar that sacrifed himself to save us all in that mission aye?

1/22/2003 Rafey Shiverbane, Jastev's Messenger

A messenger from Jastev spoke to Rafey Shiverbane tonight in the Landing. Rafey invited us to his table to relate the story and this is how he told it.

Rafey recites:

 "He asked of me what town this was. "The Landing," I peplied."

Rafey recites:

 "He said he had just gotten off a wagon train from some other city, I don't know where."

Rafey recites:

 "He began to tell me that he was a messenger from Jastev. He carried a strange yellowed skull with him... his clothes were minimal."

Rafey recites:

 "He says that Jastev sends him visions."

Tuesday asks, "did he smell like ale?"

Rafey chuckles.

Rafey shakes his head.

Rafey recites:

 "I began to ask him about his visions."

Rafey recites:

 "I asked him what he saw."

Rafey recites:

 "These are his words, as they were spoken to me."

[Nocuous Nightshade Table]
The table is dimly lit by candles hidden behind paper lantern covers. Nightshade flowers are pressed into the thick paper shades, casting hazy shadows across the tabletop. You also see a bone-shafted arrow, an enruned mithril strongbox, the sparkling Jesae disk, a badly damaged fel box, a steel lockpick and a bone-shafted arrow.
Also here: Miersey who is sitting, Culirion, Lord Dallicis who is sitting, Kamiton who is sitting, Touk, Cylan who is sitting, Asben who is sitting, Szalka who is sitting, Bskins who is sitting, Alesse who is sitting, Keldrone who is sitting, Lord Lexbubba who is sitting, Lord Camulos, Jesae who is sitting, Xarston who is sitting, Jaerdan who is sitting, Lyonis who is sitting, Wyrsa who is sitting, Xastor who is sitting, Zyrolok who is sitting, Titavi who is sitting, Harm who is sitting, Prosperinna who is sitting, Tuesday who is sitting, Rafey who is sitting
Obvious exits: out

Rafey recites:

 "Fire above...I see pale fire shining down upon a land of mountains and hills...darkness spreads across the land like a shadow and butterflies wither to ash..."

Rafey recites:

 "I prodded for more information..."

Rafey recites:

 "...a serpent...a serpent rises like a feather upon the wind and coils upon a krolvin shoulder..."

Rafey recites:

 "...and moles crawl from beneath the rocks that turn to ash even as the butterflies did..."

Rafey recites:

 "He says that the Empress of the SOuth will be the runhammer of it all."

You ask, "Runhammer?"

Rafey says, "Turnhammer."

Rafey recites:

 "I then asked him of my own role in the events to come..."

Rafey recites:

 "To my own role he gazed long into his strange skull... after a seeming trance he said."

Rafey recites:

 "Again I see flames, but this is a forest fire...a young wolverine seems drawn to the flames, but then falls down a pit and is saved although trapped...a leather-bound book lies at the bottom of the pit, but it is useless to the animal..."

Rafey recites:

 "...the wolverine devours the tome in one gulp and is transformed into mist...the mist settles into the dirt and an oak sapling springs from the pit and grows into the clouds..."

Later the same night in Solhaven.

His exact words were "There's not even life, for with life comes death, and I cannot even sense that past this barrier"...
Category: Quest, Sagas, Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 894
Author: SNEDAKER
Date: 1/23/2003 12:46:08 AM
Subject: Side note...

One of the things the trolls muttering in the Rest mentioned was the word G'bruk. Well, Taistil the scholar told us it was important but he didn't know what it meant. Tonight I met a old sylph named Geremiah who told me that when the comet came last time, with it came an army of leaderless trolls that would say, "G'bruk" as they burned his village out of existance.

So apparently this kind of thing's gone on before...

Isselie

Category: Towns, Cities and villages
Topic: Teras Isle
Message #: 746
Author: Fiendwish/Prospera
Date: 1/29/2003 7:17:24 PM
Subject: Re: Come the 6th day

Actually, there were two events on Teras happening at the same time. The elementals, and the volcano. They're entirely separate events that were just linked by a central object.

Lothwyn

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 259
Author: Quinstol
Date: 1/29/03 @ 2:20 PM
Subject: The Terror on Teras: Strange Rhymes
A fiery apparition appeared on Teras Isle today, speaking the following rhyme:
For six cycles now, they lie and wait
For six cycles now, they are consumed by hate
For six cycles now, they have one desire
For six cycles now to see the world cleansed with fire
Come the sixth day from the one of rest anger will awake
Come the sixth day from the one of rest deaths within their wake


Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1261
Author: REBELAT, Ranger of the Rest
Date: 2/3/2003 10:34:02 PM
Subject: The Investigation Continues...

For those who may overlook the News item ingame...

Tonight, most probably spurred on by the comments of the residents and visitors of Solhaven, a Guardsmen by the name of Japhel arrived in River's Rest and proceeded to question and investigate any connections he might find concerning the assassination of the Empire.

May post the log of Rail's questioning tomorrow, but will say that he was most intrigued over the Krovlins and Knadyl, perhaps even if the two might have had some dealings. Also asked about Deathwort, if anyone had heard of it or seen it around, and if there were any folk who traveled often to Solhaven.

So the town of River's Rest has now felt the crosshairs of the Empire upon it.

Rail

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1269
Author: REBELAT, Ranger of the Rest
Date: 2/4/2003 7:42:20 AM
Subject: Detained for Questioning in River Rest

Last eve, Jaynah was questioned about where she was on the day the empress died. She answered honestly and was then detained for further questioning.

Jaynah was in Solhaven when the empress arrived, but left without seeing her. She had spoken with a family member about the empress going to Solhaven and even traveled there with the hope of possibly seeing her. As luck would have it, the cutter arrived not long after the guards started clearing the streets and she decided to aviod the crowds and just wait to see if the empress came to Rivers Rest.

She was asked about Knaydl and any krolvin activities. She denied knowing anthing about such matters. She was asked who else journeyed to Rivers Rest on her return trip. She identified one of the three people on board and claimed she could nae recall who the other two were as they did not speak and kept to themselves.

Jaynah said she had wished no harm to the empress when asked if she were faithful to the empire.

At the moment she worries that the killer is among those hiding in Rivers Rest, where many come to hide and be fogotten. She's worried of the consequences for the town should the murderer be found there.

Jaynah/Terri

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: WoN: Quakes in Zul Logoth
Message #: 49
Author: Moongirl
Date: 3/6/2003 10:37:21 PM
Subject: Re: Red Rot Info

some red dust The dust is fine, yet sticky, and coats the walls and floor of the cavern.

Inside the big crack, there are fissures which look like this: The fissures range from a few inches to about a foot wide and are oddly rounded, as if dug by something making a smooth tunnel in the stone. The reddish mold that streaks the cavern collects in their dark openings.

There are also piles of dirt and stones, a wall of rubble, and various stalactites and thin columns.

Local experts think cavern below the monument is natural, doesn't look dug by dwarves, doesn't look "made".

Could just be a hole.

And the red dust, could just be the dust that poofed out when the cavern opened up.

Interesting stuff, though!

(MG)

PS: Thanks Clunk.

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: WoN: Quakes in Zul Logoth
Message #: 51
Author: Moongirl
Date: 3/7/2003 12:34:38 AM
Subject: Teeny Update

Clan Leader Wynoza came out of her office tonite.

She seemed very nervous, coughed a lot. Didn't seem to know yay or nay if the red dust is indeed Red Rot. Though when she asked Xulia, I was cracking up!

Anyways!

So basically we don't know how long it takes to be infected. We don't know if this dust is Red Rot or not. Wynoza went back to her office, didn't seem overly concerned. Maybe she's not panicky, maybe she is. Hard to tell with female dwarfs.

If it is that, there have been far too many people exposed and who've left the area, so it could spread everywhere...

That would be bad.

(MG)

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: WoN: Quakes in Zul Logoth
Message #: 106
Author: SIWAS
Date: 3/9/2003 9:47:44 AM
Subject: Re: Possible red rot case discovered.

Other dwarves are becoming sick.. I spoke with one this evening in Ta'Illistim, who claimed not to have been in Zul Logoth for a month. During the conversation, the person in question complained of a scratchy throat, then began sneezing several times in succession.. this was followed by coughing.

Attempting to cast undisease on them brought them a moment's respite, then just intensified the coughing. I also noticed them scratching at themselves, though they passed it off as nothing.

I haven't named the person, since I'm sure it will become evident who it is as the illness grows worse.

Whatever's come out of those fissures is spreading beyond Zul Logoth now.

Siwas, glad she's not a dwarf

Re: Possible red rot case discovered. · on 3/9/2003 11:48:25 AM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 115


Okay so there's red dust and a big hole in Zul. Nobody quite knows what to make of it.

The dwarves who are getting sick have either been through Zul or not and are either in Illistim or not. What about other towns? Landing, maybe?

Dwarves returning from Maelshyve brought Red Rot with them. Red Rot was believed to be caused by Despana's magic and infected strong and weak dwarves. It can also be spread from dwarf to dwarf, there was no cure found, and it decimated Kalaza in a matter of weeks.

Now dwarves are spread out, and well-travelled. What will happen? Does it truly matter where it started at this point? Can anything be done?

There's a journal in the museum from a Dusk Mountain clanner, about Maelshyve. Does this clan still exist? I didn't see where it did. (Makes sense, of course, if that's the Kalaza clan). Is there or would there still be a clan connection with this new outbreak?

Also, there were quakes in Zul. Now quakes in Illistim I've heard. Would this comet be getting close enough to cause these? Perhaps in the mountains first, elevation and all that? (I'm no geology or whatever expert, that's for sure) I wonder what seven levels of hell might open up in the elven nations, if they get holes.

Again, these are only my player musings for the boards. I'd suggest you think clearly about whether your character would know squat about this, especially if you're not of dwarven persuasion. :)

(MG)

Re: Possible red rot case discovered. · on 3/9/2003 1:55:19 PM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 124


Druskil's also been showin odd signs.

And Clan Leader Wynoza came out of her office again today. Had a long talk with townsfolk.

1) Going to get some engineers to shore up the caves, due to the big hole, could be unsafe.

2) She's obviously worried about the sickness now. SEems to think it's red rot. (4 out of 5 dwarves agree, it's red rot)

3) She's not sure if it's dwarf-only. Anything's possible.

4) She doesn't think it's a good idea for folks to be travelling, could spread the disease. Was rather bothered by Regyy's flight to Illistim.

5) She'll be back in a few days with her engineers, and for more talkin.

6) Oh and she's trying to get the dust cleaned up, but there's just too much and it's too sticky.

I'm sure I missed some things. Will think about it more later.

(MG)


BOGARRAGOB phase master

Quakes again...... · on 3/9/2003 4:01:07 PM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 134


I few minor quakes were felt today, small ones. They were like the ones first felt durning the begining of the last quakes.

Dust now falls from the ceiling, in the monument room. (since the ceiling is coated from dust spewing out)

A bit of dust falls on one of the sputtering torches. The flame flares wildly for a moment, then subsides. An odd odor fills the air.

GS3-BRADACH Djinn

Re: Possible red rot case discovered. · on 3/9/2003 11:25:47 PM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 144


>>>Now dwarves are spread out, and well-travelled. What will happen? Does it truly matter where it started at this point? Can anything be done?<<<

Good questions. Each of them has an equally good answer. I'm fond of questions. The poet Carl Sandburg was once asked "What question would the last person on earth ask?" His answer: "Where is everybody?"

Seems appropriate, doesn't it.

Bradach

KERRUISHR Vari

Re: Possible red rot case discovered. · on 3/10/2003 9:01:51 AM Generate a link to this post in a pop-up window. 148


>Well... that's not the same impression I got. At least she was concerned that the dust could be stuck to travellers, and that way carried. So anyone/thing could be a "carrier". I don't think she was saying that people could be carriers in the medical sense, of course. But that's probably possible too.<

Your right, here is a couple snippets from the conversation:

You say, "So it seems only dwarves can catch it." You say, "But can other carry it." Xulia says, "I dint carry no dust nowhare.." Wynoza says, "Itsa sticky though.." Wynoza nods to Xulia. Wynoza says, "Mighta stick on yer boots and ya not know it" You ask, "So ya think one of us others could cause a dwarf to catch it?" Wynoza says, "I dunno that.." Wynoza says, "Dunno how it be spread, ceptin by other dwarfs"

So basically whether or not non dwarves can cause others to catch it is still up in the air.

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #:
Author: GS3-MIKOS
Date: 4/3/2003 8:26:15 PM
Subject: For those who may overlook the News item ingame...

Dateline 4/3/2003: SOLHAVEN BARONIAL INQUEST SCHEDULED

Baron Malwind of Vornavis will be holding court to perform an official investigation into the circumstances of the recent death of the Jantalarian Herald, Holswort Niffelheim, near Wehnimer's Landing. Witnesses of the combat that led to the Herald's death are strongly encouraged to attend. The court will be held on Feastday, the Fifth of Olaesta at 10 o'clock p.m. Imperial time (Eastern) in the Baronial Hall in Solhaven.

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1859
Author: UMBRAERIS
Date: 4/9/2003 3:28:07 PM
Subject: Re: Urutei in RR apparently...

My husband and I happened upon Urutei while hunting in the bog/spectral wood area of River's Rest. She seemed very out of sorts and exhausted. Not having more than 5 words of the giant language between us, he and I tried to understand what she was looking for, but then she fainted. A bog wight came along and cast a gas cloud. We were unable to drag her to safety so Elanus fogged her into Voln. Here we met Scrumples. After giving her water and allowing her to rest a bit I tried communicating with her using my own basic attempts at sign language and then drew a map on the ground of the 'Rest and its surrounding areas. She then talked of "Iysse" and drew a mountain range far above the forests of Rivers Rest. She then swept her hand over it describing the path of the ice (which we later found out about).

We called for any giantkin to come and see if they could communicate with her and finally the Lady Emmalyn came to our aid. She then helped us understand what quest Urutei was on and that we probably shouldn't have fogged her back to town as she lost her owl guide for a while. Urutei thanked us for our help and gave us runestones. I think mine says "fox? and my husband?s ?stillness.? I don't know if they bear any significance or not. She then went to set up camp on the road outside the drawbridge near the waterfall. We got her more water and wood to build a fire so that her mind could clear.

When she mentioned the owl I could only think of my Lady Lumnis and drew five interlocking rings in the air to see if Urutei would recognize it and explain more about the connection. She acknowledged the symbol and then talked about interconnectedness, but here?s where my memory fails a bit. She then retired to her tent and I have not seen her since, though I also have not been in the lands much.

I believe Scrumples posted about this in the River?s Rest folder.

Lunafleur

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1870
Author: DELPHIUS
Date: 4/13/2003 8:47:33 PM
Subject: Tempton's Visit

Greetings from the haven-

Tempton stopped by once again today to announce that the traps were being compiled he was sent, and that he was in the progress of building one BIG trap using all of the ideas he was sent. He also relayed some information regarding the Bloodfist Krolvin which is included in a letter below(WoN:Czag Dubra) that will hopefully make its way to the isle of Teras and those fighting them. THings however turned alarmingly when Thadz appeared on the scene to announce the death of Achlais, the translator and linguist specialist for the fortuneers how had until that point been doing all of the translations for the group. This would be the second fortuneer dead, though wether she was murdered or not I do not yet know, but guessing by the suddeness we were told I would say probably.
Seablade Seadolfins
The Singing Ashrim
Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1877
Author: MARTINJ10
Date: 4/17/2003 10:33:55 PM
Subject: Re: Urutei in RR apparently...

Urutei arrived in River's Rest this evening. After my lifeless corpse was unceremoniously dragged past her I had to return and offer my apologies upon getting raised.

Having just returned from a very long trek to my ancestral home, I had to find out what was going on so I stayed to hear what she had to say. Fearing that there is a very good chance her words are true, I chose to follow her and was marked. Tomorrow evening, those that chose to follow are to arrive to begin "marking the trail" there.

I'm afraid I don't have a log of the occurences tonight though. However, tomorrow evening should be interesting.

Coricopat

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1878
Author: WOODRUFFJ1
Date: 4/18/2003 12:28:30 AM
Subject: Re: Urutei in RR apparently...

Urutei came today she was weak and almost dead. found her just inside of town eating cockitrice. The owl told her that her time for fasting is over. but she must eat only things of the air. I think cockitrice was closest thing to a bird that she could find cooked

She says that tomorow at 8:00 in the eve she will be leading everyone who will help working to mark a trail and build signal fires for allies that will be comming to help open the path to the sky.

I asked her if allies was trolls she say she not know

she say that some allies is small as mouse and others big as tree

she marked a few peaple and I spent great deal of time trancelating back and fourth

she tell me that she almost fail becouse she not know common, so not enough peaple have made it as far as she is now but owl tell her it is not too late or may not be and that allies are comming but we must work hard to mark a trail and set becon fires for the allies that are comming

I urge any of you that have an intrest in this part of the quest to come to RR as fast as you can and please pass the word to any you know that bear her mark allready

<<OOC I know this aint a log but it is accurate summary of the events and the log is just way way too big>>

Lord Tholn Ninespears, Issmir Ogre Clansman, member; MistyDeep Manor, Citizen Ta'Vaalor

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1884
Author: CRYHEART
Date: 4/18/2003 1:19:13 PM
Subject: Hochstib's Plans
the following is to be thought of as IC::

This is a quote from Baron Malwind during his court last eve in Solhaven:

"As for Jantalar, all indications seem to be that the Baron Hochstib has more or less given up on his war with the Barony of Vornavis. He is now begun efforts to fix the roads leading northwest from Mestanir (in the direction of the Landing) and it is expected that Jantalarian scouts will be in the Landing area within a week."

After listening to the report by Baron Malwind, it appears likely that Baron Hochstib has plans on the Landing: either by wanting to create a free trade route with the Landing, or wanting to occupy the Landing by force therefore having access to a port, or occupy the Landing with the Landing being a freeport under an Overseer (maybe his wish).

There are possible other variations I have not thought of yet, however, time for the citizens of the Landing to be alert.

Cryheart Thaxin


Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1888
Author: WOODRUFFJ1
Date: 4/19/2003 12:35:45 AM
Subject: Re: Urutei in RR apparently...

Urutei came tonight as she promised. We lit fires and performed some rituals. Each fire needed three people one dead, The Ghost who was to howl to drive off evil spirits, one alive to guard the Ghost (I was a Ghost guard) and keep it from decomposing or getting ate up and one to tend the fire. Each had special lines to recite. Panthers came to try to drag ghosts away and blood eagles and Roltons kept trying to eat the Ghosts. Fire guardians also attacked the fire I was at. At one point we were required to put something special to ourselves into the fire. I tried to put the bone dagger Urutei gave me in the flames but the fire spat it out now I have a blackened bone dagger. I tried an embeddable earring I was planning to give to somebody and the fire liked it. Also it liked my hook knife. We kept our vigil till midnight by the elven clock and than Urutei gathered us into her tent. The Ghosts where all given the mark of the Guardian on their arms. All who fed something valuable to the fire were tattooed with wings on their backs.

Lord Tholn Ninespears,

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1892
Author: MARTINJ10
Date: 4/19/2003 11:40:39 AM
Subject: Re: Urutei in RR apparently...

Last night Urutei said that our signal fires were set well and that the allies had come yet are still in spirit and have not decided what form they will take in our world just yet. She did mention that one person in the room would be the first to see them because he had a keen sense for the spirits. She said they had one white and one grey eye and that they seemed to be constantly moving, like a dance.

I'm now in the process of writing the story of the rituals last night and hope to perform it in River's Rest soon.

Coricopat, one of the ghosts

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: War of Nations
Message #: 1897
Author:
Date: 4/27/2003 10:41:23 AM
Subject: Jantalarian scouts sightings

Hear ye all citizens of the Landing! The following is a post to the Gryphons by one of it's squires:

"I write to ye all concerning the appearance and skirmish with several jantalarian scouts last night. A sorceror named Omens was releasing tree spirits when he came across them at the gap in the trees in danjirland. They neither did or said anything until he attempted to speak to them. Then they launched into an attack. At this point he used the symbol of need and several of us rushed to the area.

Apparently, several of the scouts did speak of obtaining the landing, cursed baron Malwind, and spoke of Hochstib possessing a mandis crystal."

Respectfully,

Guarrin

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
Message #: 327
Author: SRCSANT
Date: 4/27/2003 3:28:02 PM
Subject: Re: Jantalarian scouts II

Hail citizens! As I was part of the crew helpin to extract information from the scouts last night, I did my best to preserve what they did and said. Mind you, there was a bit of commotion, binding, disarming, insults and such so I just extracted what might be useful to know in terms of information. For your perusal:

>>A Jantalarian scout struggles to move. Finding his actions fruitless, he bellows a shout! "Comrades, to me! I cannot move!"<<

>>A Jantalarian scout struggles to move, spitting a vile oath before growling,"When I get out of this, your head is mine!"<<

>>A Jantalarian scout grabs a stunned scout and drags his compatriot west!<<

>>A Jantalarian scout reaches down and jerks a Jantalarian scout upright.<<

>>A scout growls, "We ain't warriors, we're jus' scouts. When our main force arrives an' the crystal with it, your silly little town will become part of Jantalar!"<<

>>A scout mutters, "You live with unhuman filth, soon you start to think like them. We'll clean out your mess of a town once we take it!"<<

>>Two blood-drenched healers rush in with a litter. Hoisting the scout's corpse between them, the men quickly retreat.<<

>>The scout growls, "You breed like the vermin you are, mixing your blood with unhumans. You'll all die like them too!"<<

>>A Jantalarian scout gives Folina a hard, steely glare and says, "Give you one chance to throw down your weapon 'fore I split you noggin to navel."<<

>>A Jantalarian scout growls at Darra, "When you skedaddle back t' that pit ya crawled out of, tell yer pals that we're gonna have Malwind's head on a pike no matter, but we're more'n happy t' spill yer blood right along side 'im!"<<

~Kriztian's player.

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
Message #: 332
Author: CRYHEART
Date: 4/27/2003 10:25:11 PM
Subject: Re: Jantalarian scouts II

Jantalarian scouts were seen about the Elven village again later tonight on the 27th of Olaesta. The Order of the Silver Gryphons left to engage the scouts and we were joined by several citizens of the Landing. This time the scouts were accompanied by Jantalarian swordsmen, who knew warrior skills. So be careful when engaging the swordsmen. We also discovered with the aid of Bisco and Brimzstone that the anti-magic field had extended northward from the great statue to two other rooms at the least.

Cryheart Thaxin

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
Message #: 344
Author: SRCSANT
Date: 4/28/2003 8:55:30 PM
Subject: Re: Jantalarian scouts II

It is also very conceivable that they drag them far away enough from the crystal's influence to do their thing. As of late last night, the anti-magic field had grown to encompass most of the Hidden Settlement. They are very close.

~Kriztian's player.

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
Message #: 375
Author: DELPHIUS
Date: 5/4/2003 11:22:01 PM
Subject: Invasion by sea

The Jantalarians dug up an old cog and sailed onto the south wharf in the landing with it. The first one on board was quickly outnumbered by the jants and called for help, her cries reached the haven instead of the landing and a team consisting of myself Elundil and Mekthros went up north to investigate. We entered the ship and were quickly surronded by forces consisting of plunderers infantrymen, and some other various Jantalarians. After Several short but fierce battles we were joined by some landing folks and Elundil was struck down. We quickly regrouped as more help arrived from both the landing and some from the Haven as well, and searched the ship quickly and throughoughly for any and all remaining jantalarians. Of the group that traveled with me I only know of two casulties, Elundil and I believe the other was someone named Purplynyte.from the landing fell. However the death rate for the Jants was much higher as Blocks of ice pelted the from maelstrom's conjured up, they coulnt stay on the feet from the waves washing them over, and not to mention the multiple sword blades takin out eye, ears, limbs, heads and anything else we could find. The ship was quickly cleared, and the havenites returned home. The ship I should mention was barely staying afloat, ripped apart as it was to convert it from a cargo carrier to a troop carrier, and so wasnt worth it for me to fight to claim sea rights to it.

Seablade and Seablaede
The Ashrim
Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
Message #: 400
Author: SRCSANT
Date: 5/9/2003 2:02:37 AM
Subject: Re: Invasion by sea

Footknights and a few knights have made their appearance in Tree Spirits, as well as spots in Upper Trollfang. Expect more.

~Kriztian. Member, Silver Gryphons. Captain, Protectors of the Citadel.

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: Baron Hochstib and the Mandis Crystal
Message #: 427
Author: GS3-MIKOS
Date: 5/14/2003 1:24:02 AM
Subject: Re: The Invasion: Requests (OOC)

Kinshack, thanks for the suggestions. Sometimes it's reassuring to find out that what we have in the works is what folks are looking for. I'll respond to a few of the suggestions, though, because in some cases I wasn't sure exactly what is expected or there seems to be a misperception.

<< 2) Give us a sense of reward when fighting back. So far, no matter how quickly and efficiently we've dispatched the incoming hoard, they still end up pushing the front of the mandis further. This more or less gives us a sense of uselessness. Our engagement of the enemy is doing nothing whatsoever to impede their progress. As a player, I feel no sense of accomplishment after clearing out a hoard of Jantalarians because nothing comes of it.>>

I agree that there is likely little sense of accomplishment at this point, and I recognize that that is something we need to address in some form. However, the advance of the soldiers isn't what makes the advancing of the antimagic field possible, rather it is the other way around. The Jantalarians have tried to time their advances as the crystal's field advances, unfortunately for them, and perhaps fortunately for those who fight with spells, usually the foremost soldiers overreach the crystal's range and wind up at a disadvantage.

<< 3) Give some more personality to the knights. We've seen two knights that spoke so far, and they were both about as tactful and witty as backwater hicks. This is quite the contrast to their automated messaging, wherein they speak in high court tongue (with thees and thous). I don't understand why the knight would suddenly revert to a callous slurred speech to taunt us. More personality. Do Jantalarians truly lack a survival instinct? >>

Have you tried typing out 16th century Queen's English in the very limited time span that has passed during these encounters? I have, and I have ended up having to clear the text buffer each time when the knight ends up dead before I can type out an off-the-cuff answer to a particular question with Thees and Thous included. I would observe that the PCs' comments to the Jantalarians tend more towards the "Die maggots!", "Die fools!" and "Why are you here?" types of comments which I think are fine, but which I would suggest take considerably less time to type out. I do realize that the Jantalarian knights' scripted comments are more along the lines of court speech, but 1) I don't have a reasonable means to remove that aspect during the invasions and 2) I don't have enough experience speaking court speak to be able to produce it quickly at the keyboard, also 3) they're at war now and likely are emotionally charged. I like the scripted speaking manner they have, but it is very difficult to produce cleanly in a time-limited battlefield situation.

<< 7) Some explanation of what the heck happened the night the cog attacked. Where the heck did the Jantalarians get access to a crappy cargo ship? Why did they even TRY? They got so slaughtered it wasn't even funny. Can we take advantage of the cog somehow, or is it just going to sit an unused asset in our harbor indefinitely? >>

Short of a baronial audience in Solhaven, I'm not sure where you would expect an explanation to come from. Baron Malwind's agents might possess some of the information you're interested in, but certainly the Jantalarians would have no reason to provide any. As far as why they tried and the fact that they were badly beaten goes, I would suggest that history is full of accounts of military debacles and missions that went utterly wrong. Perhaps there was more to the situation than met the eye, but again there is no real means of finding out for sure short of chatting with Lerep over a cup of tea after this is all over. And what can be done with the cog...? Given that you can't sail to Jantalar I don't know that there is much use that can be put to it as far as the immediate situation goes, but that still leaves a lot of potential.

<< 9) Any news from Malwind, or the local authorities of the Landing, the Town Guard, or anyone? Anyone out there? Anyone? Anyone? >>

Baron Malwind was holding public audiences about every two weeks when the events centered around Solhaven. Likely he will be holding one again soon since Jantalar's aggressions inevitably affect Vornavis in one way or another. As far as local authorities of the Landing go, I've never understood them to be more than desk-sitters and bribe-takers, and the Town Guard isn't going out to the Elven Village to fight Jantalarians, so they likely don't know as much about the situation as those PCs who have been fighting. Part of the Landing's current situation is due to the fact that there is no single recognized authority that is responsible for speaking for the town or making decisions on its behalf, so there is no overlord to hold an audience or direct agents.

Again, thanks for the observations and the suggestions. We appreciate the feedback and a better idea of what event participants are looking for and expecting.

- Mikos

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: WoN: Czag Dubra
Message #: 405
Author: MURPHYB02
Date: 5/15/2003 12:54:32 PM
Subject: New Leader?

Trudok was around for a bit last night, and in between throwing thorns at each other, we exchanged a few words. Apparently the Krol Council has not appointed a new leader yet, and the Krol (on Teras) are awaiting word. Trudok actually mentioned that he hopes to be chosen. I have to wonder how the other Krol on the Isle will react, or which others of the Krol have their eye on the title of Czag.

Regardless, they are still intent on the takeover of Teras. From what the Krol have been saying, the assault on Teras has only just begun.

Murp

Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic: The Platinum Rings
Message #: 473
Author:
Date: 7/20/2003 11:10:10 AM
Subject: A letter from Shetal

Greetings and falicitations,

Due to the goings ons in the landing, I fear we must wait until such time the town has been re-taken by its residents. After which, we will all gather at the Museum for a special unveiling.

Be careful and travel safely.

Shetal.


Category: Quests, Sagas, and Events
Topic:
Message #:
Author: Kriztian
Date: 7/24/2003 11:10:10 AM
Subject: Hendor and Vornavis armies arrive to fight Jantalarians!

Actually, Emporer Aurmont ordered Hochstib to return the mandis crystals to him untainted (Hochstib acquired them from the previous Empress). This order came down before the Jants had actually taken the landing. Hochstib shrugged the order off, hence the appearance of the Hendorians (Jovery's men) and the Vornavians (Malwind's men). But indirectly since returning the crystals untainted meant Hochstib needed to at least return the crystals, which would have brought about the death of his soldiers rather quickly I'd think.