------------------------------------------------------------------------------- .. .. .||. ||.. ... || || || ||.|| `|.. || || `|.. ..|'''.| '|| || '|| '|' ' .... . .... ..||.. ... ..., || .... || '' .|| || || || || .| ' || .|...|| '|. | .|' || || || || || || || || ''|...'| '|..'|' ||. ||. '|..' .||. '|..| ||. '|...' ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 1 Coin ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Back on the stands once again =------=------=------=------= Welcome to a new issue of the Canticle. Yes, we know it's been a while... but your wizard community has not been sitting idly by. Throughout the long, dark summer of AA, the wizards have been conjuring, growing and spawning new creations left and right. The town has several new shops, and a completely new town with many additions is scheduled to be set down soon. New areas have opened around the planet, and many modifications made to older ones (see later in this issue about the bounty board, and the mythical thieves guild). For that reason, and the fact that with the end of Behemoth came a swarm of new, unwashed and untried wizardlings which needed to be coaxed through the developing stages, the Canticle just got pushed to one side to make way for what would presumably be bigger and better things. Inevitably, it came time to work on the paper again, and with submissions written on everything from vellum and the finest squid ink down to blood from a severed dwarf toe smeared across the hide of a slaughtered elf, the paper slowly coalesced into what you have in your hot little hands now. Help keep it going by submitting. The Canticle offices are presently in the little hut just outside the west gates of the main town. Go there, and check it out! There's been some restructuring of the Arches once again, with Paldin taking over the position of Balance, and a redistribution of authority with Devlin having QC approval power, to help expedite having new areas debugged, spiffed, and on the map for you to enjoy. With all the new additions, we're going to need an improved QC team just to handle the sheer numbers and sizes of areas to be submitted. Flint has settled into his job of Law (see "Long Arm of the Law" later in this issue) and it's taken so much of his time that he's had to take deputies to help him with his work, and appoint me, Hatamoto, as Chief Editor of the Canticle. You'll probably notice a few changes in format because of this, but I've endeavored to make it an enjoyable and interesting as possible. There is a message from our local God Zor on page 8. I _strongly_ recommend you read it, and act upon it! - Hatamoto, Canticle C.E. ______________________________________________________________________________ Inside this issue: Special Focus this issue - Law: "Long arm Classifieds............ Page 14 of the Law" Interview with Flint.. page 4 Editorials............. Page 2 "Mud relationships"............... page 15 Sports/Obituaries...... Page 9 Special Message from Zor.......... page 8 Saga Section........... Page 17 Biographies - Who to know......... page 19 ______________________________________________________________________________ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 2 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Too many wizards! That's what I said, just too many of them floating around, or flying, dissolving, disintegrating, or whatever it is they do. Ever since the final destruction of Behemoth, the entrance requirements for wizards are at an all time low. Seems like everyone and their dog can become wizards. You'd think that this would improve the quality of life on the Mud as we know it? Ha! All its proven to do is give a slew of mortals, not ready for the burdens of immortality, so much more power and freedom that they were incapable to use restraint when using that power. Fortunately, there are new ways of sorting out the wannabes and posers from the ones who carve their niche among the immortals. Steps have been taken to insure the future of this glorious land from rampant abuse of wizard powers, and uncontrolled expansion of the wizard population. The best method discussed so far is to slap another huge quest in front of the wizard-to-be, to prove his mental stamina and original thinking abilities. Soon, quests like this will be in place. You may ask, "Hey! You're a wizard yourself! Why are you saying this stuff about your own?" Because, gentle reader, I spend more time helping other people with learning how to program, and fix, and test, and poke, and prod, than I do working on my own pursuits. With fewer, and more interested, wizards, there would be less time teaching and more time creating, which would increase the quality of existence amongst all who inhabit this domain. So be advised, if you're planning on becoming a wizard, prepare yourself for the arduous road ahead... and if you're SERIOUSLY thinking about contributing, please buy, read, and digest a good book on the programming language C. ---===> Do you consider yourself brave & chivalrous? <===--- ______ _______ | \ / | If the answer is yes you will be pleased to hear that kind |...|+++| |\ \/ /| King Drin will be recruiting Knights for his army in the | * |+++| | \ / | near future. All humans, elves and half-elves will be | I |+++| | / \ | accepted. Being a Knight means upholding law and order, | I |+++| |/ /\ \| and being part of a splendid group of people. King Drin |-------| \/ \/ has even proclaimed to be willing to handle out noble \^ ^ ^/ \ / titles to those Knights who, through deed and manner, \^ ^/ \/ deserve such a reward. \_/ ### The Castle Shop ### Low prices, top quality, those are the hallmarks that we have prided ourselves upon. For the knights, proud to offer a huge variety of weapons and armors with which to smite the foes of our liege. For the adventurers, handy items like torches and compasses can also be found on our shelves. Try us, we have the best prices in the land, and service that's second to none. Visit us at the northwestern corner of the courtyard of King Drin's Castle. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 3 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have maps! __________________ \ooo . |^ ^ ^\ Tired of getting lost in the world? Well we \ooo . \ ^ ^ \ have the answer for you! Buy one of our fine \ooo_ . _ |_^ ^\ line of maps of the realm. They range in size /ooo . /^ ^ / from our smallest, the pocket map, to our /ooo . / ^ ^/ largest, the Sorcerer's map. We guarantee you /.._..x _ /^_ ^^ / will find one to suit your need and budget. \ _ . | ^ ^\ Hanza's can be found just south of the church, \ |\ . \ ^ ^ \ and if you're low on funds you can use our \ N . | ^ ^\ demonstration map in the shop to plan your \__________|______\ expedition. -=- A Knight's Tragedy -=- The knight was once a kind and gentle man, a loyal member of the Knights of Drin. He was a fearless warrior and looked dashing with his gilded full platemail sitting upon his bright red horse. At his side hung a longsword, with which he dispatched many a foe to an early grave. However, on one particularly long crusade through Middle Earth he was engaged in a fearsome battle, when his sword broke. Since he was near Toledo, a place noted for their magnificently crafted swords, he decided to commission a special sword to replace his broken longsword. Unbeknownst to the knight, his overlord had fallen in with a most evil secret society, the Scythe, some say lead by the devil himself. The overlord persuaded several of the knight's soldiers to leave the Knight's of Drin and join forces with the Scythe guild, but the Knight himself, showed no sign of wanting to defect. The overlord seeing his chance, approached the blacksmith with a plan. The blacksmith crafted a magnificent looking sword. The pattern welded sword was constructed from the finest metal available. The highly polished blade was honed razor sharp and the intricate engraved design covered the blade hilt and wheel-pommel. The overlord was quite pleased with the results, as he could feel a truly evil aura emanating from within the sword. The blacksmith presented the sword to the Knight, proclaiming it to be called Diablo, the devil sword, as the overlord had instructed. While the name struck the Knight as being odd, he was pleased with the sword because it was crafted to be a truly magnificent weapon. The Knight resumed the crusade. He and his men fought and won many battles, but strange changes started to take place with the Knight. Where before he fought and killed out of a sense of duty and loyalty to his King and God, he now fought because he had a lust for blood, he started to enjoy the killing for the sake of killing. The changes were subtle, taking place over time and many battles, but soon his men began to notice and reported back to Drin. The remaining soldiers that had been turned by the overlord stayed with the Knight and together they established a stronghold outpost in the mountains from where they conduct their raids. -- Thaddeus ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 4 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --- Insights : "Long Arm of the Law" Interview with Flint, the Law Arch --- Flint arrives and quickly sits. F: Sorry I took so long to get here. Business. Hatamoto nods solemnly. H: Completely understandable. Thank you for joining me. H: The last time you were mentioned in print was when you started the arduous task of maintaining order in the land: The job of Law Arch. Flint nods solemnly. H: Since you've had a few months to acclimatize to your new position, why don't you describe a typical "day in the life"? F: In a word? H: In as many words as you like. =) F: Hellish. It usually starts the minute I log on. If I don't get a tell or two about legal problems before I read my mail I consider myself lucky. However there is always at east one law problem in my mail. H: Now, when you say legal problems, what exactly do you mean? F: Well law problem can be anything from a perceived slight to a wizard zapping a player. Usually takes most of my logged on time to sort things out. H: Hmmm... I see. Quite the range of potential problems. We'll get back to some specific examples of law and order in a little while, right now I'd like to find out how you became the Law. F: Well I had been selected to be Balance Arch, but Biko, my sponsor / mentor, had retired. Zor was going to whatever type of school Gods go to. God College I guess. "Plagues and Locusts 101" and "Flooding 40" classes. <grin> Since he couldn't be here to handle any 'law' problems he asked the Arches to do it. At the time, Midian and I were the only Arches logging in regularly, and Midian didn't want to do it... so I ended up handling Law and Balance. I handed over balance duties to Dale, as it was too hard to do both jobs... both suffered from lack of adequate attention. H: I understand that the job has gotten so time-consuming that you've had to deputize some assistants. F: Ah yes, the LawBabes. *smile* H: LawBabes being the nickname to the deputized wizards helping you out, as they are all female. Lethal beauty, as it were. =) F: *grin* I have a thing for surrounding myself in beauty. F: Alanah was my first law Assistant. She basically handles some of my old log checking duties... especially the one about player killing. Tigress was my second. She's my troubleshooter, and helps to maintain and create the Arsenal of Justice: The 'Tools' for the job. H: One of those tools we'll cover later is the Bounty system, quite effective actually, from such chaotic beginnings. But how much power do the ladies actually have in Law matters? F: I've given both a fairly free reign to deal with mortals... everything from warnings to imprisonment... to zapping, in extreme cases. Of course I review everything anyways. By the way, we recently 0 a new, and non-female, addition to Law. The venerable old 1 Ged is now out Security Chief and Consultant. Essentially, his job is to poke around the defenses of the realm, find holes, and then plug them. Ged's pretty much on his own, though. He doesn't need someone looking over his shoulder, which is why I used the term "Consultant". He's been 0 doing that job for a while, so I just made it official. F: Oh, but everyone helps with investigations. Just last week we had to spend about 2 days investigating one case. [Continued on page 5] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 5 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [Continued from page 4 - "Long Arm of the Law" Interview with Flint] H: The Ki and Khrystina incident.... F: *Nod* That case will have a long term affect on justice. If people expect leniency in cases like that, they had better think again. Basically, I find it hard to trust what some suspects say anymore without tangible proof. After the lies that 'friends' of the court perpetuated it will be a while before we can be trusting again, although we must always remain impartial. H: That was the particular incident I mentioned earlier. Can you shed some light on that? F: Well, there is not much to say about the incident... all the docs on it have been made available to the wizards of the realm. I can say that the incident left me with a bad taste in my mouth, and that it was one of the worst cases I've ever had to adjudicate. H: It's said that the punishment should fit the crime. One of the most effective punishments I've seen so far is the use of the Bounty system. F: Yes, it has cut player killing down a lot, to an all time low. :) H: My first guess as to the reason it's so effective is because the mortals take care of their own... and having the feeling that you're being hunted down by the population of a planet must be fairly hard to deal with. F: Probably, but it wasn't always this way. The bounty system has a checkered past. At first there were no restrictions on its use... I foolishly assumed that people would not abuse it. Well, needless to say my faith in players was shattered after 3 of them decided to start using it to justify rampant player killings. H: That'd be Mace, Wrath, and Filth? F: *nod* 1 was demoted 1 level... one 5 levels, and the instigator demoted to first level. H: But you've put methods in place to keep it from being abused, lest the abusers be the abused -smile-. F: I made some suggestions to Dawg, the bounty creator, and he had some ideas, and I think we made a system that works. As a failsafe, any bounty posted is checked by me. The LawBabes also have the power to sentence and pardon players. H: Just to side track for a moment, what's the fascination for Trivia in this place? F: *grin* Trivia is a fun diversion from the drudgery of life here. It allows everyone to take a break, get together as equals, and just have fun. H: As opposed to meeting on the field of battle. [Continued on page 6] . . $o$ The Golden Ducat $o$ . |__._.| |. .|\ | . . | | Eat, drink, and be merry, fellow travellers! |. . | | | .. .|/ \___/ We cater to the thirsty adventurer. Just finished a hard battle? Need to kick back and relax with a mug of your favorite beverage? Come to The Golden Ducat pub and satisfy your liquid desires. Choose from our menu of beverages, you are sure to find just the drink you need here. And be sure to watch out for our new look. That's right, we're planning renovations, coming soon! We're conveniently located just north of the paper boy near the library and the Clerics' church. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 6 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------> >> Very potent potions for sale << <----------------------- Aye, come and try my potions. Whatever your problem is, my potions are sure to be of some help. If you have a nasty wound or more, I fix it. Do you lack mental stamina? My menta-rechargers will take care of that with ease, leaving you fully rested and ready to do battles with your mind in no time. I even provide some cheap standard rations for those in need of food. It's so hard to find a five star restaurant out in the wilderness. I have my stand just inside the gates of King Drin's Castle, you cannot miss it. The Crone ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ _____________________________________________________________|_|_ --------------------------------------------------------------\ \ \ \ Many among us spend a good amount of time devoted to \ | worshipping an obscure deity, or live under the iron | | grip of an archaic despot that controls their actions, / / their finances, and ultimately their minds. We of the |/ Scythe think that the most valuable good a sentient being can possess is freedom. We call upon the warriors of Ancient Anguish to come join us as brothers and /| sisters, and to believe in ourselves, above anything / / or anyone else. So come check us out! Our regular | | meeting place is not far from the main village. | \ We ask little and offer a lot. \ \ Florin Halforc, guild-master. \_ \__________________________________________________________ |-|--------------------------------------------------------- [Continued from page 5 - "Long Arm of the Law" Interview with Flint] Flint nods solemnly. H: But Trivia is in trouble of not being played any more... correct? F: No, Trivia will always be open to wizards. However, access to mortals is limited, and if donations don't come through it will be cut off completely. You see, it is fairly processor intensive, and it was originally made as a diversion for wizards only. If mortals want to play as much as they'd like, we're going to need a more powerful machine. Some Arches feel that if donations don't increase, Trivia will just be removed. It's an excellent incentive to potential donors. H: Okay... well, thank you for your time sir, it's been quite informative. One last question though... What exactly is a "Fan Boy"? Flint throws his head back and cackles with glee! F: It has many meanings. As to the main reason I use it, well, I'd tell you, but then I'd have to banish you. *evil grin* H: I guess the world will never know... =) F: I guess not! I would like to point out that there will be some new Law items soon... H: Really? Such as...? F: I am working on the Palace of Justice, where trials will be held, with the possibility of a jury of peers. I think players would really get into that. And perhaps some shiny tin stars for my LawBabes. =) H: Nobody will be screaming that the law arch is unfair then. -grin- Flint pauses, and listens carefully to something. He then stands. F: Hate to rush out... but duty calls. Hatamoto nods solemnly. Flint bows gracefully, and disappears in a puff of logic. --AA ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 7 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Delair A new method of dealing with the criminal element in our society has been devised. Due to the players natural tendency to want to 'Hunt down and Kill' things, especially for monetary reward, the "Bounty Board" has been created. The nature of this board is extremely simple. If someone wrongs you, and you can legally justify your complaint, you may 'post a bounty' on the accused perpetrator, legally allowing other players (including yourself) to kill that person, take the scalp, and collect the bounty. There are some rules you must abide by, however, to keep YOURSELF from being placed on the bounty board. #1 - Placing a bounty on the board can be considered the same as a Pkill attempt. If you wouldn't have the justification for a pkill, then you do not have the justification for posting a bounty. #2 - If you kill someone on the bounty board, you must take the scalp of the victim and cash it in. Pkill without bounty reclaiming is considered an unjustified pkill. Here's some sure-fire ways to get put ON the bounty board: #1 - By not following the rules above. #2 - By killing someone without due provocation (that the other player 'pissed you off' is not sufficient) or repeatedly attacking that player. #3 - By stealing other people's money/kills/treasure laid claim to, either by picking it up when it is clearly labeled or by stealing it off their person (btw - if you are caught stealing, you are instantly considered 'fair game' for Pkill.) This includes pseudo-people, such as the Auction Courier. #4 - By calling an Arch a 'fan boy'. <This will probably result in worse than the bounty board... consider this a 'best case' scenario. => Please keep this in mind during your day-to-day escapades into the wild world of Ancient Anguish. For those of you who don't yet know, the bounty board is one of the back rooms in the tavern at Delair, next to the poker room. - AA Thievery is on the increase throughout the land, and the problem deserves to be addressed. Robbery of players is frowned upon for obvious reasons, and any complaint about such activities will, of course, be investigated. All guilty parties will be punished in accordance to the law of AA and the severity of the crime. While this type of crime may raise suspicions of an organized, underground movement, such as a Thieves Guild, these reports are highly exaggerated. These are the acts of lone rogues, with the idea of making a dishonest living by cutting people's purses. Do not be alarmed about such reports, as there is no Thieves' Guild in AA. -- Deputy Sparky ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 8 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------- ----======= First (and last?) Official Vote =======---- ------------------------------- I have been travelling through other realms recently and some very important local persons brought up a new issue. In some other muds exist people called 'Ambassadors'. Those Ambassadors are representatives of other worlds, usually one of their administrators/gods. These people are granted immortality without any obligations (other than accepting the common rules, of course). However they are welcome to bring their ideas and virtual cultures to the world they are Ambassador on. Now, for the Ancient Anguish perspective. These are people coming from another world and they want to become immortal here only because they are important there. Whether to have Ambassadors or not will therefore be the topic of the first official vote on Ancient Anguish. The reason I'm not to decide this arbitrarily is that YOU are mostly affected by this, as you are working hard to get or keep the status of immortality. If you don't want Ambassadors, we won't have any. Please note that even if you vote 'Yes', we wouldn't have a large amount of them. We demand a high quality level of our Ambassadors, of course. This means that we only want Ambassadors from important worlds. The decision of who would be acceptable, however, would be my decision. I'm for it, of course. Otherwise there wouldn't be a vote *grin*. I have decided that the vote should take place at the voting booth at Thaddeus' house. Go there and vote, NOW! [Not only if you are against it!] \/Zor__ -=- Village Auctioneers -=- Tired of all that stuff you have lying around? Need a little extra cash? But you don't think the store will give you what it truly is worth? Well then, you may want to drop by to the Village Auction Hall, located to the south of the main store. We'll auction off ANYTHING you can carry, drag, roll, or slide in our door! And for you adventurers looking for a little extra 'something' to help you with that next quest, drop in and look into buying some of the fabulous merchandise that passes our way! Come in and grab a little something for the husband, wife, or kids... it's easy, it's fun, and even a little addicting! The Village Auction -- Located west of the south gate in the Main Village (Village Auctioneers is a subsidiary of Hatamoto, Inc.) ------------------------------------------------------- | ---<---<@ ~ The Flower Shop ~ ---<---<@ | | | | We have a wide assortment of beautiful, fragrant | | flowers, a nice present for that special someone. | | A card comes with each flower, to convey the | | message that will mean so much. | | | | Come and see for yourself. The prices are very | | reasonable. We are located just opposite south | | of Ancient Bliss Inn in Nepeth. | | | | *->- The flower girls | ------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 9 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ******************************************************************************* >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The Anguish of Ancient Anguish <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< ******************************************************************************* SPORTS / OBITUARIES "Upon reviewing the logs starting from July 17th I have come to the conclusion that I would (if i was mortal) have a better chance of survival as a newbie in Beruit, than here on Ancient Anguish." -- Lord Macheolor Nightshade July 17th 1993 Today was a bad day for the newbies. Malcom the Magnificent(10) had to prove his manliness by hunting and killing poor newbie Delevant(1) in less than 30 seconds. Also Co(10) attacked Otto(1) for dancing too much. Apparently Otto was not doing the Safety Dance(Men Without Hats). Dor(13) had a rather rough day today as well. It seems his hands managed to find their way into Mythicos's (16) pockets. Upset by this Mythicos fed Dor some steel and Dor had to run to the safety (yeah, right) of the forests outside of town. Also news today, it seems that Alanah and Asgard had a marital dispute and hacked away with axes all day at each other forgetting they are immortal. The dispute was over (rumor has it) an unidentified female in Asgard's workroom. I can only imagine what happened in real life as they are married in RL too. July 18th 1993 Today Malcom(9) [<---wonder what happened?] continued his reign of terror over Delevant(5) until friends Idomar(14) and Arrok(11) stepped in to defend their little friend, killing Malcom not once, but twice. Malcom in a fit of depression over lost levels then killed himself and is now currently Malcom(1) July 20th 1993 His canineness, the wizard Dawg(22) got up on the wrong side of the cage this morning and using his infinite wiz powers and write access made the newbie Victim(1), his victim. Pieces of Victim were found all over the mud stretching from Drin's castle to the far off land of Zhamarr. Dawg not being happy with killing a far less powerful player once killed victim again on the 21st. Must have been a bad week, huh Dawg? July 26th and 27th 1993 Today was another relatively unlucky day for newbies. Apparently Edge(18) was attempting to help Ferd get some experience. Edge wimpied from the mighty Temple Guard and Ferd, looking to score some fast cash attacked Edge. Ferd was dispatched and buried in the temple in less than 10 seconds. Greylon(18) and Elanor(5) were going about a regular day when a Moonbeam(1) came shooting out of the darkness attacking them both. Greylon shed some light on the situation and Moonbeam was sent back to the moon. [Continued on page 10] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 10 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [SPORTS/OBITUARIES continued from page 9] Also today, Gunner(17) was in no mood for philosophy class and in a rage attacked Plato(10) and chased him clear across the mud. 20 minutes later Plato was discovered. Fortunately for the young philosopher he got away or he would have been philosophizing with Lars and Death. The 27th of July was a busy day for Filth(19), who has a bad disposition in the first place. He was in a really bad mood today. To start off, he attacked and massacred to small fragments (which are being sold at the Inn as mutton and in Hanza's shop as souvenirs) poor Shawn(7). After having a lousy day out, Filth went back home. His Mama(1) yelled at him for being late for supper. Having heard enough from Flint and other wizards about Player Killing he wasn't in the mood for more. He buried his axe in Mama's brain and then had her for dinner. Daring(1) got a little too daring with Ki(21). Foaming at the ears, he called upon his great wiz powers to kill Daring not once, not twice, but 8 times. Now thats some serious male PMS. July 29th 1993 Longert(1) had a little too much to drink today and thought he could take on the whole mud. He attacked Natas(4), Blunder(7) and Flagg(12). Flagg, having just bought a new sword made shish-kebob out of Longert. Guest(1) was made to feel unwelcome today when Musashi(22) gave him a shocking experience from the clouds sending Guest to meet the only permanent resident on the mud, Death(666). Alanah(21) and Asgard(21) had yet another lovers quarrel. Although noone was killed (how could they?), Asgard has to go in for surgery to get bits of steal out of his brain, as he is picking up radio signals. It seems Victim(1) picked the wrong time to log on because Dawg(22) was ready and waiting for him. When Death(666) finally let him go Victim(1) decided to fight back and attacked Dawg. Dawg, not wishing to get his paws dirty, simply fried Victim where he stood and thus ended the battle. Then he waited for Victim to pray and fed Victim another few thousand volts. Don't ya think Dawg is tough? Icks(8) had a very busy day today. Icks killed Jump(1) 13 times and Jump's friend Parker(1) twice and Flucht(1) once. Isn't Icks a super tough guy. I wish I could be him for a day. August 3rd 1993 Today Something(13) wanted to try to be somebody by killing a helpless Soul(1). Something was definitely amiss with this incident. Later in the day after much ridicule Something(13) wanted to fight someone of his caliber and chose the unwilling Deth(13). Although he attacked Deth 7 times he was unable to kill Deth. I wonder if Something got the hint that he isn't somebody? Rift(1) felt the true Wrath(21) of a wizard today. Apparently there wasn't enough of him left to have learned a lesson. [Continued on page 11] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 11 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [SPORTS/OBITUARIES, continued from page 10] Greyson(25) in all his archly might beat up on poor Hatamoto(21) just for sport. From personal experience I can safely say that Greyson enjoys kicking wizard butt for fun. (*Macheolor rubs his sore behind*) August 8th 1993 Y(21) and A(9) apparently got into an argument about who was the better vowel. Frustrated that he is only sometimes a vowel, Y used his awesome wiz powers to kill A. August 13th 1993 Guest(1) touched a nerve in Flint(25) today when he stated "Canada is a state of the US, they just dont know it yet". Flint, aggravated beyond mortal comprehension beheaded Guest with his mighty Cutlass. Also news today, Lady Devlin(22), Lestat(21) and Arpeggio(21) were having a private 3-way until Devlin insulted Arpeggio who quickly attacked to save his mighty man's ego. Soon all three of them were cutting each other to ribbons in the nude. There was no winner to this papers knowledge. August 17th 1993 Today was particularly interesting. Greyson, now having achieved arch, forced his mom, Greymom(1) and his dad, Greydad(1) to attack themselves. Apparently he had a bad childhood and wanted to get even. Greyson, you need serious help. August 20th 1993 Today was a relatively bad day for Guest. Apparently Deth(10) was logging in as Tramper, Visitor, and Guest and being really annoying. So Hatamoto(22), Garfield(21) and Flint(25) took turns killing Guest, making great sport of it. Having repeatedly been set aflame by Hatamoto, Guest eventually stopped logging on. August 21st 1993 Its seems that A(10) cant get along with any other vowel. I(18) attacked A six times but was unable to erase A from the big picture here on AA. August 24th 1993 Shithead(1) was quickly flushed down the toilet upon login today by his archness the mighty Greyson(25). Greyson's reason was that Shithead smelled really bad. August 26th 1993 Macheolor(21), upon returning to the mud had a fight with Mac(17), his test character. Mac wanted to go on strike. Macheolor, using his mighty zap sword decimated Mac in one fell swoop. Witnesses in the shop were stunned and quickly went about there business and left. Aggravated by the strike Macheolor then went on to the championship and attacked Greyson(25). Macheolor is still recovering from the beating and the Arch kill he received. [continued on page 12] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 12 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [SPORTS/OBITUARIES - Continued from page 11] Cohagen(12) had a rougher than most day. Upon attacking Chloe(16) for reasons still unknown, all of Chloe's friends jumped into the fray. Malver(12), Messiah(15) and Limbo(15) came rushing in to protect their companion. Cohagen managed to dispatch Malver before being rescued by Mortimer(19). Cohagen then started on Chloe again, just before it was all broken up. This has been fun and a pleasure. Until next time folks. -- Lord Macheolor Nightshade .o()o. Magical tools for Adventurers .o()o. At Maigyn's Magic Shop we have just the items you need to help on your 'hunting' expeditions. Our patented magic stones will help you to find just the right monsters for your abilities. Our handy compass will help you to find your way back to the village when out hunting. Come on in and try us out. We're located just to the north of the equipment shop. (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ Late last night, a red-headed wizard was seen being taken someplace safe and quiet, perhaps with soft walls. When questioned, her keeper, Grontel the orc, grouched, "S'keeps on 'bout them faries 'napple pies 'n gold 'n stuff, I gonna havta bop her upside the hed iff'n she don't shuddup, blasted lun'tic." Lunacy is purported to be caused by over-exposure to the light of the moon, thus also the term "moon-struck". The moon throughout history has been the subject of "loony" stories. One of the stranger of these stories seems to be relevant here. It is said that in the light of the full moon, fairies dance in hidden groves, and where their feet touch the ground a circle of mushrooms spring up. It is rumored that strange things can be found if you enter this ring. Things like fountains that heal, or flowers that move. Legends also say that the fairies don't care for visitors and transport strangers sleeping near their home to far away. From the wizard's words, it may be profitable to investigate this phenomenon, if not for the gold, at least to enjoy the scenery, and pick some flowers. The wizard was found somewhere north of town, and that's where this mid-level adventurer is planning on starting her search. (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) (\o/) /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ /_\ _____________________________________________________________________________ | | | Famous Last Words | | -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- | | "Smoke this pipe in good health!" - Gator | | "It just says that. It doesn't do any real damage." - Anon | | "Hey! Gimmie my stuff back, Filth!" - Moonshae | | "It's just a harness, what could it possibly do?" - Anon | | "Filth's only 14th level... I don't need any help!" - Thingold | | "What was that for???" - Zane (post-mortem banished cry) | | "ARGH!" - Suitty, before a great many deaths. | | "Damn lag!" - Too many to count. | | "They always give at least an hour's notice before reboots!" - Generic | |_____________________________________________________________________________| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 13 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ___________________________________________________________________________ | | | The Place to be! | | | | Bored? Restless? Need to get out and sample the finer things before | | your mind snaps from the tedium of everyday life? We've got the cure | | for you! Drop into the Adventurers' guild and take a look around. | | For the rough and ready Adventurer types, there's the old, reliable | | Adventurers' Catboard. In the refurbished basement, you will find the | | Poets Catboard, Joke Dogboard, and for you etheric travellers, the | | Other Worlds Board. Have a look, something there may interest you, or | | contribute to the conversation. | | | | The Adventurers' Guild - Not just for Advancement any more! | |___________________________________________________________________________| Brigands Invade! ---------------- Nepeth-- According to the Sheriff of Nepeth there have been several reports of Brigand activity in the last few months. A band of brigands have been terrorizing farmers and villagers from through out the lands of Ancient Anguish. From Hobbitat, to Nepeth, to Zhammar, brigands have been sighted ransacking homes and farmsteads on the outskirts of the respective villages. "We've had enough!," said a local farmer, "Apparently the Sheriff can't get the job done, we need someone to take care of these brigands!" The sheriff refused comment, other than to say that he was doing the best he could under the circumstances. Reports have indicated that the brigands have moved into a location hidden somewhere in the mountains west of Hobbitat. However a precise location has yet to be discovered. When approached for comment King Drin Trueheart replied, "My knights can handle the situation." Boki, the guild-master for the organization known as "The Scythe", responded with a laugh when he heard of Drin's comment. Boki has since extended an invitation of membership to the Brigand leader. -- Ricochet, Canticle staff reporter *Decker's Used Goods* ------ We buy and sell! ------ *Decker's Used Goods* Have you just finished off some vile monster and find that you have a lot of equipment that you don't need? Just entered the realm and find that you need stuff to keep you alive? We've got the solution! Come now: RUN! Don't walk! To Decker's Used Goods! We have swords, knives, shields, armor, yes folks we have ANYTHING you need! If we don't have it, you don't need it! And we're SLASHING prices on all our stock! You can find us just north of the Adventurers Guild... but you'd better hurry or that special item you are looking for may be sold! Come in today! *Decker's Used Goods* *Decker's Used Goods* *Decker's Used Goods* ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 14 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- _____________________________________________________________________________ | ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ___ ____ | | The Canticle / / // / / / / / / | / | | / / /___//____ /____ / /__ / /__ / //____ | | / / / / / / / / / / / / / | | / / / / / / / / / / / / / | | /___ /___ / / ____/ ____/__/_ / __/_ /___ /____/ ____/ | |_____________________________________________________________________________| |_____________________________________________________________________________| | | | | | Desperately seeking | It is better to light a | Rosebud, We need to get | | Jasmina. If you know | candle, than to sit and | together again as soon as | | where she is, mail | curse the darkness. | possible. Gordo misses you.| | law. - Flint | - Anonymous |____________________________| |______________________|_________________________| | | | | Have you hugged an Arch | | Tired of Orcs being | ERIN FOR EDITOR! ERIN | today? | | rude, obnoxious, and | FOR EDITOR! END THE |____________________________| | smelly? Tired of them| UN-REWARDED SLAVERY! | | | stealing your kills | ERIN FOR EDITOR! | NEWBIES! Need money to get | | and eating your |_________________________| a start in the world? Ask | | corpses? Join Orc | | for Lovi or Laperd, co- | | Haters-R-Us! Mail to | I am not married yet, | executors of the Wizard | | McMurray for details!| but I am in love with | Ascension fund. | |______________________| someone. Please respect |____________________________| | | this! Thanks 4 leaving | | | Lost: Wizard-type, | me missing my real love | Wanted - Female, Human or | | Male-ish. Answers to | Tiger Bride. - Garkin | Elf. Fiesty, yet tamable, | | "Peggie" and "Snivvie|_________________________| for nights on the town, | | Pooh". Often found | | conjuring by moonlight, | | near newspapers, the | Hatamotos Helpful Hints | strolls on the beach and | | flame board, and | ----------#1----------- | other romantic encounters. | | sheep. Please return!| "Never cook bacon in | Ability to put up with a | | Signed: Devlin {rep- | the nude." | someone who's grumpy in the| | resenting Trogs every|_________________________| morning and amorous in the | | where} | | evening a must. Mail info | |______________________| Hatamotos Profound | & picture to Hatamoto, care| | | ---Revelations, #1--- | of this publication. | | Learn the deadly art |"Survival of the species |____________________________| | of To-Fu in your | is everybody's business"| | | spare time! Mail 100 |_________________________| WANTED: Couriers to make | | coins to Miyamoto, | | deliveries, small packages | | IMS Box 1847, for an | You're all dead. All of | intercity and local routes | | easy-to-follow self | you. When I get back, I | available. Contact Lou in | | instructional booklet| is gonna stomp you down | the Commodities Exchange, | |______________________| like slugs under my big | south and west of the | | | toe. - Behemoth | harbor, opposite to the | | CRIME PAYS for those |_________________________| training academy. | | who hunt the criminal| |____________________________| | element in our fair | - This day in History - | | | land. Check out the | | PLAYERS - This space can be| | Bounty postings in | 2.4 Billion years ago | yours! Leave a message to | | the back room of the | today, the universe was | Hatamoto in the IMS mail | | Tavern in Delair. You| born. | room with the full message | | never can tell just | | you wish to display. Please| | whose face will show | 30000 years ago today, | make all messages less than| | up there! | fire was discovered. | two lines of 80 characters.| |______________________|_________________________|____________________________| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -=- Mud Relationships - An inside look by Eternity -=- Although the term 'relationship' has many meanings, one thing is certain. Relationships are one of the things that make mudding a worthwhile experience. Most people have had at least one relationship in their mud lifetime, be it either romantic or platonic. Meeting and getting to know others through the Internet is fun and sometimes rewarding. As one player put it, "I think it's great that people can hook up and grow to be intellectually attracted to one another without any type of physical intimacy." It cannot be disputed that without our physical manifestations we can dispense of inhibitions and be 'ourselves'. Like most things, however, mud relationships can have their down sides. especially when dealing with romantic feelings. Most people that responded to the questions on mud relationships felt that romantic relationships were difficult and often painful. Many people have been burned by getting emotionally involved with another person they have not met face to face. Things are not always as one expects for the reason that muds are not an entirely trustworthy medium, as any male that has married another male thinking they were female in VR would attest to! I believe people get so emotionally attached to other people because feelings are often amplified on muds. Without the influences of outside factors, people become caught up in emotions that sometimes exist mostly in their own minds, since muds rely on the typed word so heavily. It is an easy trap to get snared in, simply due to the fact that it is a medium that is basically all thoughts and emotions to begin with. As a player recognized: "..it is difficult for [me] to interact in complete honesty with someone without being able to see him or her. The eyes do reveal much, as do voice inflections, expressions and body language, all of which may not be necessarily communicated on the screen." Don't give up on mud relationships yet! Despite the fact that romantic mud relations can sometimes be deceptive and painful, this does not mean that some aren't successful. In fact, a good percentage of the people that replied said they were currently in a mud relationship that was satisfying to them, and many other players reported that they either knew personally or had heard of a couple that met originally in virtual space and were now currently married or engaged. [Myself included: I'm to be married in Dec 93! -ed] All the people that said they were in successful in mud relationships agreed on one thing: Long distance relationships are not easy. They usually mean a lot of hardship, and rely heavily on communication and trust to succeed, requiring both parties to willingly put a lot a work into it. Not seeing your significant other for long spans of time, racking up obscenely high phone bills (which I for one plead guilty to), trying to find the time and money to see that special someone, are all things a person in a LD relationship can expect. Is it worth it? I personally would say yes, although that mostly relies on the two people involved. Some view long distance romances as impossible, whereas other view them as entirely possible, albeit difficult, with the right attitude. I'd like to say that I believe that muds are a great way to meet new people. Through muds you are introduced to people that would otherwise be impossible because of geographic distance. Through the net we're exposed to other cultures and different lifestyles, yet at the same time can see that fundamentally we are all alike, be our nationality Canadian, American, Swiss or whatever. [Continued on page 16] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ["Mud Relationships" - Continued from page 15] As a good friend of mine put it, "The mud is a forum, a place where people go to party in virtual reality. Some treat it as a masquerade ball, and become someone else. Some consider it to be like a local diner, where they and their friends have been coming for years, and they can kick back and let you see them for what they really are. They've got nothing to hide and nothing to prove". As far as romantic relationships go, they're as individual as the people that make involved in them. So if you're thinking of getting involved, make sure you know what you're getting into! Until then, "VIVE Ancient Anguish!". Special thanks to all of you that replied to my questionnaire. All your replies were helpful and appreciated. An orc chick reporter /Eternity Mud Marriages . . . . . . . . . . . . Have you found that special someone that you . . . . want to share your Mud-life with? If so this ad . . . may be of interest to you. Mud-marriages are . . . performed here by me, Father Flint. Rings are . . . supplied, but you have to send out the wedding . . . invitations. There is only one ground rule that . . . I follow, give me at least seventy-two hours . . . notice of a time and date. It would be preferable . | . . . to have longer notice, so invitations can be -+- . properly sent out, and I can prepare for it. You | n may even want to consult the editors of the paper | O _ about purchasing ad space to make your O _<_\_ o\ announcement. Send me a mud-letter, or ask me in <\ | | /\\ person, if you are interested. ___/>_|___|_<_\__ - Flint Brawn's Equipment Shop At Brawn's, we have all that the novice adventurer needs to start on the road to fame and glory. Several types of armour to protect your body, from full leather armour, to caps, to shields. For the offensive minded we sell some well crafted, keen edged hunting knives. Just what you need to take out those pesky bats and rats outside the village, as well as anything else that gets in your way. Drop in, and check us out. We can be found to the south of Maigyn's Magic shop. Brawn's: Outfitting newbies since creation. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 17 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Canticle ___/ _ / ___/ _ / / / / / / / ___ / _ / /_ _/ _ / / / / / / / / ____/ _/ _/ _____/ _/ _/ Section Welcome to the Saga Section. There's a lot of good writing talent out there in the menagerie that makes up AA, and this is a little portion of the paper set aside for the promotion of that talent. The Canticle will accept any story publications that qualify under the simple premise: "Make it generally unoffensive, and keep to the setting." Generally unoffensive means no hard core porn, nothing that's blatantly insulting to another's religion or real life race (AA race prejudices are, of course, acceptable, as they would be in character.) Keep to the setting means for you to try to keep the stories in a fantasy roll-playing genre. No terminators or huge slab-like objects floating overhead, please. =) -=- -=- -=- I'm Balfor. I used to be a lowly scavenger in around the southern realm. Life is pretty hard where I come from, with the constant attacks from our enemies. And there are so many! Everywhere you look is danger: from treants that'll grab you when you walk through the forest, to Goblin bands that are always around, searching for weak prey such as myself. And then there are those wood elves... They strike swifter than any with their horrible magics. I still feel a shiver down my spine when I think about the one time I had an encounter with them, the day that started in motion my current life. I had spent the day combing the woods for lost equipment and much to my pleasure found an impressive dagger, a welcome change from the usual trash one finds there. As I sat my tired frame down to inspect my find, an ugly dwarf ran in and, after looking me over, stopped. No words were spoken. I watched with interest as he retrieved something from seemingly nowhere, lit it, then put it on the floor. Shortly after it burst into flame, and I recognized it as a kind of fireworks. The dwarf gave me a filthy glance and ran off into the distance whilst shouting something rude. I sat there thoughtfully for a while, admiring the fiery display, when without warning I was engulfed in a hailstorm! On a sunny day, yet! As I hit the ground I saw my attackers... Two of those lean elves, stealthily walking up to me clutching their daggers. I thought the end had come when I saw that fireball materializing in the hand of one, but something seemed to go wrong and the elf sagged to the ground, obviously in severe pain. I jumped up, wielded my own blade and leaped for the other, who was distracted by his companion's collapse. I scored a few hits before another hailstorm sent me sailing backwards. As I once again made painful contact with the earth, the wounded elf recovered somewhat and they made their way toward me to finish the kill. I remember thinking it was ironic that I'd get the final stroke, when all I was carrying was a few gold pieces and a rusty knife... But at that time the ugly dwarf reappeared and started jumping up and down in anger, all the while waving his heavy branch at the colorful torch that was still ablaze not far from where I was lying. He proceeded to punch one of the elves in the nose and curse out the other, who had just pointed at him and made distasteful remarks about his ancestry. The enraged dwarf became so livid, he began hammering the elves with his stick... What an awesome sight that was! When I recovered somewhat from my blow, I got up and joined the fight, which seemed to surprise him. I discovered that day that when you can get near to a magi, you can slay him with ease. [Continued on page 18] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 18 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ["Balfor's Tale" - Continued from page 17] After the fight, we sat down exhausted and I inquired where he had obtained his battle prowess. While handing me some pungent liquor he told me his name was Groin and that his group, the Scythe, allowed young warriors to train with experienced battle veterans. Then he did a thing that both revolted and excited me. He picked up one of the corpses and began consuming it! He meticulously cleaned the melt of the cadaver until nothing was left but the skeleton and the ears which he for some reason set afire. The other corpse got a similar treatment. After consuming his repast, he smiled grimly and cleaned his face a bit. I've followed him since then, and I'm glad I did. I'm away from the misery of the forest life and have met some wonderful people that are now my friends. They've introduced me to many new things, things about a different lifestyle... one filled with wonder, adventure and glory. I'm a member of their guild now! I'm now in my training stage, my job is to collect bottles. You'd be surprised how many bottles people leave out there. It's disgraceful! I like the job, I get out in the open a lot, and now and then I get to hunt and kill the odd animal or two. I've discovered that you can live on raw meat and beer and feel pretty good... and I'm never alone! I can focus my mind and hear the voices of the others like me that are out there. Such stories they tell... of glorious battles and immense wealth, and the most cryptic whispers of those who claim that we can attain a higher level of life and be immortal! I don't know what to make of it all yet, but I intend to find out! But first, I'm off for another field trip. A gifted headhunter is leading us on a venture into enemy territory, and anything that picks on me can expect a bottle aimed at its head! -- Furdz, Part-time amateur interviewer for the Canticle. This chronicler was minding his own business (and a bottle of beer) in the Golden Ducat when he suddenly found himself whisked to a small pedestal, surrounded by flames, and in the company of a beautiful.. er.. Devil? "Thaddeus," she commanded, "tell these creatures my story." So I shall. Devlin, Consort to Asmodeus, Lady of the Ninth Plane of Hell, was gated into this plane by accident. During the great Battle of the Drow Caves, powerful magii, clerics, and paladins united to banish the newly discovered Demon Lolth and her minion Drow from our land. Lolth opened a Gate to summon aid, but her prime material form was quickly slain. Before the Gate could be closed, however, a misspoken word summoned Devlin. Not caring about Lolth, the Drow, or the battle at hand, Devlin took her opportunity to venture out into the land. Devlin's copper-colored skin and flaming red hair betray her devilish heritage. As Consort to Asmodeus, she has no need for a husband, but only another Devil could be considered anyway. Her major peeves include mortals, wizards, and arches, although she says our land is an interesting change from Hell. When asked what her intentions are in our land, Devlin replied, "To provide a place for the evil to dwell and the good to die." I was then (thankfully) teleported back to my beer, and I haven't had the.. er.. pleasure of her company since. -- Thaddeus ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volume 1.3 Virrsmonth 17, 505 Page 19 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Canticle _ / / > o _ __ / | \ / \ \ _/__/ _/\/\_/\_> -=- Amante -=- 1) What is your name? Count Amante the Spanish Fly of the Scythe (diabolic) 2) Are you married or single on the mud? Are you looking? ;) Single, a confirmed bachelor, however, flirting is a major pastime. After all, amante is Spanish for lover. 3) As a wiz, do you have any future plans or goals? My first area was the Knight's Stronghold, my second is being QC'd at this time. It is patterned after Macbeth, my favorite play. After the wooded area, Burnham Wood, is completed and passes QC I plan on adding Dunsinane, the King's castle, to that area. I would also like to code a few more objects for the Scythe. Too much focus is on those lousy do-gooders the knights, the Scythe needs to continue its mission, that is bringing hate, discontent, and evil to the mud. (Editor's note - Burnham wood is open at the time of publication) 4) Could you please describe to us how your character looks? I am 6 feet 5 inches tall, with bulging muscles that make you feel puny in comparison. The armour I wear is remarkably thin, yet it is stronger than any you with ever see again. The black flowing robe that I wear will catch your eye as electric charges arc over its surface every few seconds. A large sword hangs at my side, the word 'Diablo' is etched into the hilt. 5) Could you please give us a brief history of yourself? I am not from this time or place, I am older than the oldest tree in the wood, yet I have seen things that will not even be considered possible for hundreds of years. I was inducted into the Scythe at an early age and know many of its mysteries. I am a veteran of the Scythe/Monk wars and have many battle scars that I consider badges of honor. I do not believe that Scythers are overtly evil, just that we are realists, who understand the survival of the fittest mentality that is essential in these primitive times. The law of the land is "kill or be killed". 6) What are your likes and dislikes. Pet peeves and quirks. I like players that role play their character, not just run around the mud killing monsters and whining when they get killed. I believe playerkilling has its place here, but not indiscriminately. A player that consistently steals objects, kills, or harasses weaker players should be punished with death. I hate it when higher players hand newbies 10-20K. They should show them where the shop is, buy them a decent piece of armour and a weapon, and give them 1K. Then take them around and show them how to set aliases, kill monsters, and teach them some mud etiquette. I also hate sponsoring level 20 wizzes that swear they will never break any rules, only to have them get demoted for cheating a week later. *** Do you like the canticle? Let us know! Drop in to Thaddeus' house and *** *** leave a message on the submissions board with your praise or ideas! -ed ***