{"id":1875,"date":"2024-03-19T17:09:21","date_gmt":"2024-03-19T17:09:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/wordpress\/?page_id=1875"},"modified":"2024-03-19T17:09:22","modified_gmt":"2024-03-19T17:09:22","slug":"cry-of-despair-76","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/index.php\/cry-of-despair-76\/","title":{"rendered":"Cry of Despair #76"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-white-color has-text-color\">Introducing Herald Assembly! Underworld Re-opens! Reviews: Reunion, metagames, runs, more!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"cryofdespair\">\n========================================================================\n         ,-\/                                                 \\-,_\n     ,-\"\/ \/   ,                                           ,   \\ \\\"-,.,\n   \/'  \/ |   \/(_ .|'''',                            .|'; _)\\   | \\ '\\\n \/'\/  \/  \\,_\/  .\\||                                 ||  \/,  \\_,\/  \\ \\'\\\n\/ |  |    \/,  ,-'||      '||''| '||  ||`    .|''|, '||' `-,  ,\\    | | \\\n| |  | ,-, \\ \\_|]||       ||     `|..||     ||  ||  ||  [|,\/ \/ ,-, | | |\n| |,-|\/ \/ ,_\\,_\/_`|....' .||.        ||     `|..|' .||. _\\_,\/_  \\ \\|,| |\n|\/'    |   __,  _)                ,  |'                (_  ,__`  |   `\\|\n\/      `;--_.--- '||'''|.          ''                    ---._--;'     \\\n         \\ \\__    ||   ||                               ''  __\/ \/\n          `,-,``  ||   || .|''|, ('''' '||''|,  '''|.   ||  '||''|\n==================||   || ||..||  `'')  ||  || .|''||   ||   ||=========\n                 .||...|' `|...  `...'  ||..|' `|..||. .||. .||.\n  CoD Issue 76                          ||                      Oct 2003\n                                       .||\n========================================================================\nTable of Contents |\n                  |\n                  | Desk Of The Editor\n                  | CoD Feature: Interview with Myra - Herald Assembly\n                  | Perspective on: The Underworld\n                  | The Deadly Only Areas\n                  | Rundown on the Realms Market\n                  | Metagames of Despair\n                  | A Guide to Killing Malvos & Nazir\n                  | Directionally Challenged: Machine Dreams\n                  | Reunion 2003: A Special from Pheayre\n                  | Stories From Aeriel's Guest Quest\n                  | News From Around The Realms - Guild\/Order News\n                  |                             - Nations News\n                  |                             - IGQ September\n                  | Funny Bones: 20 Things Not to Say in NC Interviews\n                  |              Player Titles\n                  | The CoD Quest: September Quest Results\n                  |                Find-A-Word Quest\n                  | From the Quill of Alysira\n                  | The Public Cry\n                  |\n=========================================================================\n  Editor: Juliana                             Immortal Sponsor: Alysira \n-------------------------------------------------------------------------\n  Staff: Amante, Angelea, Ganemanoimu, Khaimran, Morgane, Qaulorn, Sarakin,\n         Severin, Simone, Tatyana, Wiglaff, Wutanali\n\n                  ____ ___  _ ___ ____ ____ _ ____ _\n                  |___ |  \\ |  |  |  | |__\/ | |__| |\n==================|___ |__\/ |  |  |__| |  \\ | |  | |___=================\n\n  Desk of the Editor                                       by Juliana\n\n========================================================================\n\n I'm pleased to announce that two more new faces have joined us, Morgane and \n Tatyana. One more familiar face has found his way back to our staff roster, \n Amante, who plans to restart his Shadowy Path column. We're finally starting \n to recover from near half-strength since the \"theft\" of a lot of our previous\n staff by the immortals. :)\n\n As a result, this month we've got even more goodies than usual. Our pages are \n packed to the brim with immortal interviews, opinion polls of the mud public, \n close looks at areas and mobs, news, quests and more...\n\n We're also opening a new announcements section for the general public. Got \n any news you'd like to share with the whole mud? Just mudmail Alysira. (See \n the section proper for details.)\n\n                       Enjoy this issue. Happy reading!\n \n========================================================================\n                                                                   (2)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ___ _  _ ____ ____\n                    |___ |___ |__|  |  |  | |__\/ |___\n====================|    |___ |  |  |  |__| |  \\ |___===================\n\n  Interview with Myra: The Herald Assembly               by Khaimran\n\n========================================================================\n\n Recently, the Realms saw the arrival of a new council. Comprising Herne, \n Tical, Alysira, Darshanin and Dria, and being headed up by Myra, it bears the\n ambitious title of the Herald Assembly. We sent our reporter Khaimran to seek\n out the Head Herald and find out more.\n\n Khaimran: First off, thanks for taking the time to be here, Myra. I suppose \n           we should get the obvious stuff out of the way first.. What is the \n           Herald's Assembly all about, and what are its duties?\n\n Myra:     Over the past several months, the CoE has been looking very closely \n           at player\/immortal relations, marketing efforts, and general public \n           relations. It was their hope to create a new council that could \n           organize all of these efforts under one heading to better respond \n           to players' needs and help promote a positive image for the game in \n           general.\n\n           Collectively, we work on marketing for RoD (web reviews, poll \n           standings, profiles), player\/immortal relations, website \n           development, and reunion planning.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (3)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ___ _  _ ____ ____\n                    |___ |___ |__|  |  |  | |__\/ |___\n====================|    |___ |  |  |  |__| |  \\ |___===================\n\n  Interview with Myra: The Herald Assembly               by Khaimran\n\n========================================================================\n\n Myra:     In terms of the latter, many are familiar with the Reunion \n           Committee... I have been fortunate enough to talk with all of the \n           Immortals that have previously worked on the Committee and they are\n           all members of the Herald Assembly. In this respect, they will \n           continue the fantastic work that we are accustomed to. The mortals \n           that have previously worked on the committee will still be involved\n           as they have in the past.\n\n Khaimran: Could you give us a few examples of what you mean by \n           player\/immortal relations?\n\n Myra:     Alysira has been gracious enough to volunteer to head up this \n           aspect of the council. We are working on a few ideas that will \n           better facilitate communication and relationships between mortals \n           and Immortals. \n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (4)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ___ _  _ ____ ____\n                    |___ |___ |__|  |  |  | |__\/ |___\n====================|    |___ |  |  |  |__| |  \\ |___===================\n\n  Interview with Myra: The Herald Assembly               by Khaimran\n\n========================================================================\n\n Myra:     As it stands now, there are a variety of outlets for players to \n           voice concerns or bring suggestions to the Immortal community. \n           However, there is still a lingering thought held by few that some \n           of these avenues are not completely fair or taken seriously. \n\n           As Alysira and I work together to establish player polls and\/or \n           outlets to receive and foward information, we will most likely use \n           the Cry of Despair to notify the public. This could involve posting \n           polls and monthly questions in the CoD or scouring the Forums for \n           issues that seem to be most pressing.\n\n           As far as suggestions and ideas go, we will always encourage \n           players to contact a TS rep and use that outlet. The Symposium is \n           always the best route to take for new ideas.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (5)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ___ _  _ ____ ____\n                    |___ |___ |__|  |  |  | |__\/ |___\n====================|    |___ |  |  |  |__| |  \\ |___===================\n\n  Interview with Myra: The Herald Assembly               by Khaimran\n\n========================================================================\n\n Khaimran: How were the current members of the HA selected? Or did they all \n           volunteer?\n\n Myra:     Current membership in HA (or any council) can be found in the \n           council helpfile. When the council was first proposed, the Council \n           of Elders asked for volunteers for those within the Immortal \n           community that would be interested in helping such a council.\n\n           Additionally, the council takes a look at the Immortal community \n           and recommends someone they think would be beneficial to a \n           particular area of the council. In which case, I contact the Imm \n           personally to ask if they are interested.\n\n Khaimran: So how did you end up as Head Herald?\n\n Myra:     I look at it as an opportunity that CoE extended to me. As to why \n           it was offered to me specifically, only they know. :)\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (6)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ___ _  _ ____ ____\n                    |___ |___ |__|  |  |  | |__\/ |___\n====================|    |___ |  |  |  |__| |  \\ |___===================\n\n  Interview with Myra: The Herald Assembly               by Khaimran\n\n========================================================================\n\n Khaimran: Who thought up the name, then? And what was the reasoning behind \n           it?\n\n Myra:     It is actually the result of group brainstorming. One evening, we \n           began by throwing out various name combinations and settled with \n           Herald Assembly. We wanted something that addresses public \n           relations, marketing, etc., but that sounded medieval.\n\n Khaimran: Will the council remain an immortal-only organization?\n\n Myra:     As we see its function now, yes. However, we are leaving the option\n           open to include mortals that will work with us on a liasion basis \n           for specific committees or issues.\n\n Khaimran: You mentioned that Alysira was in charge of player \/ immortal\n           relations as far as HA is concerned.. What are the other \n           members of the council's main activities within it?\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (7)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ___ _  _ ____ ____\n                    |___ |___ |__|  |  |  | |__\/ |___\n====================|    |___ |  |  |  |__| |  \\ |___===================\n\n  Interview with Myra: The Herald Assembly               by Khaimran\n\n========================================================================\n\n Myra:     Tical has been our webmaster for many years and has done a \n           fantastic job with the website. His role continues in this aspect \n           within the council and I will work with him to continue to improve \n           our presence on the web. Additionally, he works on the Reunion \n           committee along with Darshanin and Dria.\n\n Khaimran: How about you and Herne? \n\n Myra:     Herne will work where we need him, but will ideally continue his \n           work on the graphical map(s) we provide on the website \n           (www.game.org).\n\n           My role is to coordinate all of our efforts and to fill in as \n           needed. My main focus at the moment has been researching web polls \n           and player reviews on the Internet. I have spent the past two weeks\n           compiling lists of websites that we are listed on in various \n           capacities.\n\n           Most recently, I have worked with Tical to revamp the main RoD \n           webpage to include links to the various polls that we participate\n           in.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (8)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ___ _  _ ____ ____\n                    |___ |___ |__|  |  |  | |__\/ |___\n====================|    |___ |  |  |  |__| |  \\ |___===================\n\n  Interview with Myra: The Herald Assembly               by Khaimran\n\n========================================================================\n\n Khaimran: I know the HA's been around in a coded form for only a short time, \n           but is there anything else RoDers can look at for evidence of what \n           it has already achieved?\n\n Myra:     On a quick search of search engines or RPG\/MUD referral websites, \n           RoD appears more frequently and\/or more prominently. We are doing \n           our best to re-establish RoD in the forefront and welcome new \n           players.\n\n           An example includes listings on Game Ogre and RPG Gateway, as well \n           as the Mudslide. One of our efforts recently saw RoD moving from \n           within various sub-categories on the zeal.com directory to: 'MUDs \n           or MultiUser Dungeons >  MUDs >  Best of the MUDs'\n\n           We're just a little proud about that move.\n\n Khaimran: Has this been in response to the rumours that RoD's playerbase has \n           been declining since the Shattering?\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (9)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ___ _  _ ____ ____\n                    |___ |___ |__|  |  |  | |__\/ |___\n====================|    |___ |  |  |  |__| |  \\ |___===================\n\n  Interview with Myra: The Herald Assembly               by Khaimran\n\n========================================================================\n\n Myra:     As often as I've personally heard a few players complain that the \n           player base is declining, I've yet to see any real evidence that we \n           are suffering. That's not to say we don't have room for more.\n\n Khaimran: So is that a yes or a no? ;)\n\n Myra:     Many of the players we have are known to have been here for some \n           time. In terms of actually improving player base, we need fresh, \n           new faces to do that.\n\n Khaimran: You mentioned that the Herald Assembly encompasses the work of the \n           old Reunion Committee.. In light of that, and Thoric's teaser note \n           about the 10th Reunion posted on the Archives a few months ago, \n           could you give us a few clues as to what's been planned for next \n           year's Reunion?\n\n Myra:     Thoric is working extra hard to make the 10th Reunion our best \n           ever. We are taking into consideration some of the problems that \n           arose this last time to ensure that they are not repeated. We are \n           looking at other locations to hold the main gathering, including \n           other bars, and even a camp ground.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (10)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ___ _  _ ____ ____\n                    |___ |___ |__|  |  |  | |__\/ |___\n====================|    |___ |  |  |  |__| |  \\ |___===================\n\n  Interview with Myra: The Herald Assembly               by Khaimran\n\n========================================================================\n\n Khaimran: Lastly, if people have suggestions to do with work the HA might \n           consider taking up, what would be the proper avenues for those \n           suggestions?\n\n Myra:     They can always mudmail or email (myra@game.org) me and I will \n           personally make sure that their suggestion or concern is taken to \n           the appropriate person.\n\n Khaimran: Great :)  Is there anything else you'd like to add for the Cry \n           readers?\n\n Myra:     We want players to know that provided they have a legitimate \n           suggestion or concern, we will do everything within our power to \n           address and\/or solve it.\n\n Khaimran: Alright.. from me and the staff of the Cry of Despair, thanks Myra.\n           We wish you and the rest of the Assembly the best of luck with the\n           new council :)\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (11)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Perspective on The Underworld                           by Tatyana\n\n========================================================================\n\n Before the Shattering, people explored the Underworld for many different \n reasons. Some to level, others to run, while some explored for the pure sake \n of discovering something new and different. \n \n It's been about a year since the Shattering, and most of that time people \n were in the dark about the Underworld. It was only a few weeks ago that the \n area was re-opened.\n\n People have mixed feelings about the new Underworld. Some are disappointed \n that there are no levelling mobs, while others simply preferred the old \n Underworld. Most are just excited that it's re-opened and they have somewhere \n new to explore. \n\n I interviewed two of the immortals who were responsible for the changes in \n the Underworld. Kinux and Selina couldn't reveal too much, but here is what \n they did tell me.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (12)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Perspective on The Underworld                           by Tatyana\n\n========================================================================\n\n Tatyana: Have there always been strong plans about re-opening the Underworld, \n          or was there any particular reason why you decided to re-open?\n\n Selina:  It needed some changes and we decided to take on the task of giving \n          it a facelift also.\n\n Kinux:   The original plan was to put in the area with the Shattering, but \n          it was found to have a few problems and was taken offline, as many \n          may know. We decided to take it on and made quite a few \n          adjustments...\n\n Tatyana: What sort of facelift? What kind of adjustments?\n\n Selina:  All the rooms were rewritten, some changes to current mobs and some \n          new things, which people will have to figure out.\n\n Kinux:   The area is considerably larger now.. has had overhauls of every \n          description, mob and item. We can't go into specifics.. but suffice\n          to say there are things in the area that will take quite a while to\n          figure out, by our estimation. That said, I'm always aware we have\n          explorers that humble us on a continual basis.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (13)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Perspective on The Underworld                           by Tatyana\n\n========================================================================\n\n Tatyana: How long did all this take?\n\n Selina:  I honestly don't know for sure as we have more than one project on \n          the go, but 2-3 months perhaps.\n\n Kinux:   About 2-3 months.. We really expanded on a job that Lascivias \n          started... It was her original desire to see the Underworld \n          re-made, though she was unable to finish it.\n\n Tatyana: Are there any particular aspects of the improvements you're \n          particularly proud of?\n\n Selina:  People seem to like the changes and that's always nice to hear that\n          kind of feedback. As for a particular aspect, I can't really give\n          specifics at the moment. I also like when people figure out\n          something, find something new that no one has found yet.\n          \n Kinux:   As far as sections that I like personally... there are two. One many\n          know already.. a mob named Asaujar. The other, I don't think people\n          will see for a while...\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (14)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Perspective on The Underworld                           by Tatyana\n\n========================================================================\n\n Tatyana: Any hints or clues you could give explorers?\n\n Selina:  This isn't really a big clue for that area specifically, but can be \n          applied to almost every area. Try different things, even when you\n          think you have something totally figured out, trying something new\n          might reveal different possibilities.\n\n          Sometimes the simpliest, more obvious answer is right, rather than\n          looking for the obscure reasoning behind it (one person will know\n          what that means).\n\n Kinux:   This is good advice for any area exploration as well, but don't get \n          caught up using one style of exploring...\n\n          This area was made to be as open to as many classes and races as \n          possible. Sometimes helps to think outside the box. And... don't \n          think what worked in the old Underworld will necessarily work here.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (15)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Perspective on The Underworld                           by Tatyana\n\n========================================================================\n\n Following the re-opening, people have been flocking to the Underworld to \n explore. Rumours are floating around about new equipment and mobs. I took to \n the streets of Darkhaven to find out the word on the Underworld. Here are \n some of the responses I got. \n\n Mythanthar: It is a very interesting area, new eq, old eq, new mobs, old mobs \n             but their difficulty has been increased, mazes, area quests, \n             everything an explorer\/runner would want. The mob interaction \n             is excellent. There is even a mob that will become your pet if \n             you do a quest.\n\n Logain:     It was fun. New equipment, new mobs. It seemed to be better for\n             all classes, not just thieves. It was scary as there are DT's and \n             aggressive mobs. \n\n Kjeldon:    That place is scary.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (16)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Perspective on The Underworld                           by Tatyana\n\n========================================================================\n\n Calin:      Well upper level is entertaining, mobs are fairly easy, haven't\n             been to lower levels yet though.\n\n Amorthan:   Like any Kinux\/Selina area it is spiced up a little. Some mobs\n             are a lot harder as I heard, and deserving as it is the \n             underworld. Although I wouldn't have made some of the mobs \n             stunnable. I guess I expected something a little bigger. Like\n             half the geo.\n\n Tylk:       Most of what I could. Basically for the most part, same as the\n             old Underworld, with a few twists. \n\n Everyone I've come across has enjoyed exploring the new Underworld. Kudos\n to Kinux and Selina for their hard work.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (17)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  The Deadly Only Areas                                  by Wutanali\n\n========================================================================\n\n The new deadly only areas have been in the game for a little while now. Mobs \n were made as a way of helping new deadlies get equipment for pk, as well as \n old players. A lot of this new eq is really great equipment, such as Violent \n Death and Scent of Decay. Immortals have been working hard on the few \n problems there are in the new areas, but overall these areas have been a \n great addition.\n\n I decided to get some input about the areas from others who have explored \n them as well.\n \n Morbol:   There're some new areas with like, equipment for pkers. \n           There's a Violent Death which is Darkfire Blaster quality and \n           Scent of Decay which is like an old shroud with int and a bunch of\n           loyal weapons in case you're worried about people stealing your tbs\n                      \n           Well a couple mobs were changed from Eclipse and one was made \n           especially difficult to get his equipment. On the plus side, they \n           weren't made extra hard for the typically lazy pkillers.\n\n Nekura:   I like the fact that the areas increase the ghetto damroll\/hp\n           of the \"average\" ghetto character.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (18)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  The Deadly Only Areas                                  by Wutanali   \n\n========================================================================\n\n Kitchious: I think they have a lot of unused potential because of the\n            difficulty of most the mobs. The areas and equipment itself\n            is superb, however it takes usually 4+ people to get some of the\n            eq that is good for 90dr newbies. This isn't right, and if it\n            doesn't get fixed, pkill will die again.\n \n Qefequami: I like them, I think they're written real nice and the tougher\n            mobs have all been impossible to beat. I think a lot of the \n            newb) eq mobs should be weakened, because it wouldn't hurt the\n            newbs from getting the new eq. These areas could very much\n            strengthen the pk community if tweaked and I would like to see\n            xanthyian graveyards linked, I think that's supposed to be \n            another tubular area.\n \n Badrol:    I think they're good but some of the mobs should be changed.\n            Mainly the ones that just bash and use fire breath. Overall they\n            are quite nice.\n \n The new areas help pk in a lot of ways, it's just a matter of getting the few\n problems fixed and everything will be nice.  The immortals did a nice job of \n putting these areas in and hopefully the things that need adjustment will be \n taken care of. Those of you peacefuls who haven't seen or heard about these \n areas, come give them a look, it's probably worth your while.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (19)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Rundown on the Realms Market                            by Sarakin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Hi folks,\n\n It has come to my attention over the few years I've been playing here, the \n changes the market undergoes are sometimes subtle, sometimes all out \n different. I decided to hit the streets to get some opinions on the current \n state of the market and perhaps use this to help improve codes of practice to \n make it fair for all. Read on...\n \n Poromenos: The market seems to be slow nowadays, and the prices have fallen \n            a lot. \n            \n            This appears to be due to housing, where people have spent huge \n            sums of money, causing all the gold to be removed from the game \n            and as such very hard to come by, considerably raising its value.\n\n Aleq:      Well prices have gone down on everything due to the new house \n            market, and furthermore since leveling has become more stringent \n            there are fewer characters being made. This is just from what I \n            have observed over time.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (20)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Rundown on the Realms Market                            by Sarakin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Irad:      In my opinion the \"small\" market (< 2 seth sets) is still alive,\n            the problem that I'm having, and _countless_ other people are as\n            well, is the \"big\" market. \n            \n            What has happened is that people hold the equip and try to get\n            real life money for it, then when they do sell it, it gets sold to\n            someone who doesn't know the value, or perhaps to someone who will\n            never trade it. The new player hoarde can't afford anything\n            because it's so hard to get rich here compared to 2 years ago.\n            \n Trembyl:   I'd probably say that the economy has changed more than gotten \n            better or worse.  Namely from certain things such as the removal\n            of billions of gold through housing.  You've got people selling \n            things for the same amount of gold when there isn't the same \n            amount of gold available in the market.\n\n Tatyana:   Because gold is harder to come by these days, the state of the \n            market is worsening. A lot of people have spent most of their \n            gold on houses, which are so expensive because max gold was \n            taken out. Most people don't want to part with the gold that \n            they have, so selling stuff is MUCH harder.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (21)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Rundown on the Realms Market                            by Sarakin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Wiglaff:  The market will find its own values, if more gold is brought into \n           the game, the value of equipment will increase, so I don't think \n           it is entirely possible to control the market, without for \n           example bringing in equipment that is better than Seth.\n \n There you have it folks, a wide variety of opinions regarding the current \n state of the market. As you can see, the main arguments seem to be that \n housing has dramatically decreased the gold trading in the game, and often \n sellers seem to incorrectly value their merchandise. Hopefully we can \n implement new codes of practice to help the market run even more smoothly.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (22)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Metagames of Despair                                    by Severin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Definitions\n \n The term \"meta\" is a prefix denoting a higher level of description.\n \n RoD as a \"game\" is where players interact on an in-game layer, that is,\n levelling\/killing\/exploring\/socialising within the framework of an\n environment built by the immortal staff.\n \n A \"metagame\" in RoD is when the motion of such a framework is turned into\n a game by itself. \n \n The closest implementations to such metagames would be activities like:  \n building and submitting an area; participating in TS or PKC; owning and \n decorating one's house or apartment. \n \n (I do not mention immhood because this article is player-oriented, as shall \n be soon seen.) \n\n In this way, metagames are often seen as Elder Games: activities for those\n who have played the regular game for a certain period of time, have become\n bored of it, and who have the reputation and resources to enter the narrow\n field of metagames here.\n \n In this article, I will argue that RoD should focus its energies on\n developing metagames, in fact, broadbased metagames, to both hold on to\n current players and to attract new players.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (23)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Metagames of Despair                                    by Severin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Introduction\n \n These days I am little more than a beachbum. However, I have not quit the\n game, because I genuinely like it. Many other players, like me, sit around\n asking themselves what to do when logged on.\n \n As mentioned above, metagames are often only accessible to older, established\n players. Yet even as the mid-ranged players complain about the affordability\n of housing, many newbie to low-ranged players like myself are already sitting\n around getting bored.\n \n What fires the desire to metagame is the achievement of a personal level of\n expertise in the game; An acquaintance of mine owns only one avatar with a\n set of good equipment and is content to have reached its personal peak, but\n another with ten avatars is still making one every two days. Both are equally\n bored and want to do something different, gain some motivation to encourage\n them to continue playing the game.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (24)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Metagames of Despair                                    by Severin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Justification\n \n With the number of such players growing daily, a greater effect can be \n achieved by developing metagaming in contrast to tweaking normal gaming \n (the \"effect\" of providing players with entertainment).\n\n Currently, metagaming is not part of regular play but something overseen \n heavily by immortals. Hence, if metagaming is to be increased under such \n conditions, it will become a heavy drain on immortal resources. \n\n For example, in news 352 and 353, glory can be used to alter housing flags. \n However, an immortal of over level 59 must be contacted for such changes. \n (The same applies for other glory effects, but I specifically mention this \n development for a reason.) \n\n In the hypothetical situation where everyone owns an apartment (which I \n oppose, before you think this is a I-want-housing rant), immortals of over \n level 59 will be swamped with alteration requests. \n\n If I were one of these immortals, I would be spam destroying people after a\n while. \n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (25)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Metagames of Despair                                    by Severin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Secondly, using area building as an example, there must be certain standards\n to be upheld. If areas build by mortals were to be installed without review,\n one would soon see 100hr 100dr weapons all around, not to mention crashes.\n\n Any metagame must therefore take place within a strict framework, but one\n that does not need constant monitoring by immortals.\n \n Is RoD ready to take a step in this direction? I believe so. \n \n Other than the existence of a large playerbase for metagaming, the following\n developments seem already to be shuffling in the direction of metagaming:\n The improvements in mud code, the increase in mudspace (mobs, \"empty\" geos\n area, available vnums), the trend of increasing glory giveout, friendlist,\n deadly areas\/arenas, housing.\n\n Suggestions for Metagaming\n \n One metagame is the alteration of the mud itself. It need not be easy, but it\n can be achievable as a long term goal. Let me describe a fantasy scenario.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (26)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Metagames of Despair                                    by Severin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Suppose the rpers at National Visions want a fountain badly. They visit the \n Town Hall, where the Mayor is. Seeing that one of them has 100 glory and so \n is \"well-known\" enough for him to speak to, he mentions that for a small fee \n of 100mil he would talk to them about public facilities and buildings. \n\n Upon being given 100mil, he talks about various facilities, like statues, \n monoliths, and fountains. Intrigued, the players ask him about fountains, to \n find that the public contract for a fountain costs 1 billion. \n\n After hard work golding and trading, they collect the requisite amount...only\n to have the mayor pass the gold back and tell them he has a cough, and would\n like some of the soothing licorice Lord Xyranthas hoards (at another time, he\n might ask for something else), upon which the players have to get that \n licorice for him. \n\n They receive a contract, which they carry to National Visions and recite. A\n huge construction site appears (which saves over each reboot). They attack\n it, only to have their weapons break (which is what you get when you dig with\n swords), so they must hit it with shovels. This huge construction site, being\n affected by the magic that pervades the realms, seems cursed and aggressive.\n\n (If the reader does not get it yet, the players are running a mob called \"A \n huge construction site\".) Finally, they destroy it, and get a...\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (27)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Metagames of Despair                                    by Severin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Dry fountain. Visiting the mayor in anger, they ask about the water and are\n told to get it connected to Lake Tich'Pyga themselves, with suggestions to\n visit the Darkhaven plumbers. \n\n After some song and dance ritual, the plumbers sell them large jointed\n sections of pipes of such weight that they require warriors to carry each one\n around. \n\n With great effort they make a line of such pipe sections from the National \n Visions to a designated plumbing station at Lake Tich'Pyga. A connection is \n made, the pipes disappear, and the fountain fills with water.\n \n In the whole process, some kind of organisation would have to take place. For \n once, the National leaders might serve some other purpose than to be the \n target of spurious uprisings. Perhaps, for a small fee and some glory, the \n founders of the fountain might be able to inscribe their name on it. \n \n All this provides much more entertainment and gameplay than donating some\n amount of money to Duke Luther for the Northern Trade Route, or golding \n endlessly to buy a single, locked apartment.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (28)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Metagames of Despair                                    by Severin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n What is required is the bold step forward of creating an automated system of\n building and questing. When this is addressed, the complaints about limited \n housing will disappear, because as of now, housing is the only manner in \n which players can express their creative urge.\n\n Another metagame I can suggest is the creation of player assocations. \n\n Instead of the current lethargic system of guilds and orders stalled on \n politics and class limitations amidst a declining newbie base, offer a \n competing system wherein individual players can form collectives at will, and \n designate a recall spot. \n\n Compare guilds and orders to large state-owned and state-subsidised \n companies, player collectives to capitalistic enterprises. \n\n Unsuccessful ones will fail and disappear in time, successful ones will gain \n prestige and membership. There is constant renewal. \n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (29)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Metagames of Despair                                    by Severin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n And instead of limiting deadly areas to only deadlies, link them to the geos,\n and install more areas like the forested arena and the badlands, with the \n exception that these are not mere fighting areas but areas with theme, \n puzzles, mobs and top-end equipment. \n\n If Seth's Fortress has Equipment, such areas will have Equipment++... except \n that they are what is termed \"chaotic\", or open to pkill. Also available in \n such areas would be tokens, either prestige tokens for strut purposes, or \n building tokens required for the previous metagame.\n\n Problems\n \n With deregulation naturally comes problems of abuse and chaos. Not everyone \n is responsible and dedicated. With the introduction of any such system, many \n associations will spring up overnight like mushrooms and last for about as \n long, yet leave data artifacts behind.\n\n An autodeletion system can be implemented for that, or a maintainance code --\n perhaps the building association X erected over their recall will rot away \n slowly over time and disappear within a year unless maintained. \n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (30)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ ____\n                    |  | |__] | |\\ | | |  | |\\ | [__\n====================|__| |    | | \\| | |__| | \\| ___]===================\n\n  Metagames of Despair                                    by Severin    \n\n========================================================================\n\n Complaints and arguments against other associations would probably rise, \n which might prove hard to resolve.\n\n Last of all, it would be harder to draw a line and decide what players can or\n cannot do for the immortals, e.g. \"If we can hire a shopkeeper mob, why can't\n we hire a healer mob? Why can't we make association flagged items?\"\n \n Conclusion\n \n I hope I have roused some interest in the readers of CoD. If you have\n opinions and ideas of your own you wish quoted anonymously or otherwise,\n please do not hesitate to mudmail me.\n \n Since I have taken up so much space already, let me just conclude with:\n                              Pro bono publico\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (31)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                         ____ _  _ _  _ ____\n                         |__\/ |  | |\\ | [__\n=========================|  \\ |__| | \\| ___]============================\n\n  A Guide to Killing Malvos &#038; Nazir                 by Ganemanoimu\n\n========================================================================\n\n Malvos and Nazir are two mobs that are closely tied together in the Cursed \n Lands.  If you're killing one, you might as well kill the other.  And the \n kills are fast enough that you easily get both done within a single repop, so \n why not? \n\n The main eq that Malvos carries is the pouch of purple cloth which is a great \n container of giant capacity.  Nazir has the huge shield of oak which is a \n good evil\/neut shield for anyone that single-wields.  Neither are really that \n good in terms of selling for money, but they're really useful to have a bunch \n of on storage.\n\n Okay before you head off, your group should consist of at least a few thieves \n and a few clerics.  They should all be devout as there are lots of evil aggro \n mobs along the way.  You will also need magic and non-magic weapons, I \n usually carry thievesblades and shieldbreakers.  I usually plug my speedwalk \n dirs in and let the characters run off and pick up any of the pieces they \n leave behind.  \n\n========================================================================\n                                                                   (32)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n \n                         ____ _  _ _  _ ____\n                         |__\/ |  | |\\ | [__\n=========================|  \\ |__| | \\| ___]============================\n\n  A Guide to Killing Malvos &#038; Nazir                 by Ganemanoimu\n\n========================================================================\n\n When I get into the Cursed Lands, I portal to Jedhian and then walk into town \n towards the tower.  The tower is in the western area of the town.  The door \n closes after one person walks through, so you need to spam open w\/w on all \n your characters.  There are lots of aggro Nohrish guards and they do a fair \n bit of damage but you can kill them quickly, magic or non-magic weapons work \n on them.  The tower is really a big spiral so keep working your way up the \n spiral until you meet up with Malvos.\n\n Malvo is a wandering mob so when you get into his room, create a spring and \n attack.  For him, you'll need your magical weapons.  He also has shockshield \n so be prepared for that as well.  This is another brisk fight and before you \n know it, Malvos is dead and you can grab the pouch.  Next, you keep moving up\n the spiral until you hit Nazir who blocks the way out. \n\n For Nazir, you need fireshield and shockshield.  If you were fast on the \n Malvos kill, your shockshield should still be good for your Nazir kill. \n Switch back to your non-magic weapons and don't bother with spelldowns or \n magical attacks on Nazir as none of them will hit.  Again this fight is \n fairly quick and he has no major attacks so just keep whackin' at him until \n he drops.  \n\n========================================================================\n                                                                   (33)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                         ____ _  _ _  _ ____\n                         |__\/ |  | |\\ | [__\n=========================|  \\ |__| | \\| ___]============================\n\n  A Guide to Killing Malvos &#038; Nazir                 by Ganemanoimu\n\n========================================================================\n\n After he dies, loot the shield and the key as you'll need it to get out of \n Cursed Lands.  As soon as Nazir dies, his captain of the guard RoNal will \n appear to try and get revenge, but he's an even shorter fight than Nazir. \n Use the key to unlock the trapdoor and go up.\n\n Have everyone tell Freynar \"I am willing to become the mender\" and you'll all \n be transported to a different section of CL.  From there, open niche, go down \n and then go all north.  Another aggro mob, Raphos will attack you but will \n drop before you even realize you're being attacked.  Then open the illusion \n and go up.  From that point you can recall and then you're home free!  \n\n========================================================================\n                                                                   (34)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ____ ____\n                    |__| |__\/ |___ |__| [__\n====================|  | |  \\ |___ |  | ___]============================\n\n  Directionally Challenged - Machine Dreams               by Severin\n\n========================================================================\n\n Machine Dreams:                          A Tourguide to RoD\n Technicolour fantasies                    for the Directionally Challenged \n                                            by the Directionally Challenged\n \n Machine Dreams does not pretend to be fanciful. It is a low-levelled region \n whose helpfile is a bare three line description. It does not promise inhuman \n levelling, nor superlowbie equipment. \n\n Yet DC really likes this little area. It is possessed of a rare beauty found \n in only one other area DC knows of -- Unholy Grounds. However, since \n aesthetic tastes are personal and highly debatable, DC will just ask its \n interested compatriots to check the place out.\n \n For those worried by the phrase \"the only way to escape is through magic\" in \n the area helpfile, here is DC's suggestion for walking out. Most of the area \n consists of a large, no-recall maze. When one enters, one should mark the \n first room. Thereafter, one of the exits from this room will return one to \n the Mire.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                   (35)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ ____ ____ ____\n                    |__| |__\/ |___ |__| [__\n====================|  | |  \\ |___ |  | ___]============================\n\n  Directionally Challenged - Machine Dreams               by Severin\n\n========================================================================\n\n Alternately, there are three \"dreams\" within the area, from which one can \n recall -- The Sky, the Graveyard, and Newfane. Either way, scan or scry is \n highly recommended.\n\n Scattered throughout the area are various nifty collectibles. None are very \n useful in particular, except for an excellent low-levelled (levels 1-15) \n handgear.\n\n In conclusion, see it for yourself!\n\n Favorite item: Directionally Challenged's tombstone\n \n Favorite mob:  Croaked the raven, Nevermore \n                (Though it would be nicer if it would just perch on DC's\n                 tombstone instead of fly around)\n\n Favorite room: Yule Tree Farm -- It just looks nice!\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                   (36)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ _  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ \n                    |__\/ |___ |  | |\\ | | |  | |\\ |\n====================|  \\ |___ |__| | \\| | |__| | \\|===================\n\n  RoD Reunion 2003                                         by Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n\n It started with an idea more than nine years ago, and now it has blossomed\n into a MUDing phenomenon known near and far. The origins of the popular SMAUG\n codebase, the Realms of Despair has recently seen its 9th Anniversary Reunion\n pass during the first weekend of last August. Players from across North \n America and even farther come every year to celebrate the creation of their\n favourite MUD and get to know the faces behind the many personalities that \n grace the daily screen scroll. In this article, we hope to relay to you some\n sense of the merriment that went on that August long weekend, recall the many\n memories that the attendees may have, and perhaps entice you to come to next\n year\u2019s 10th Anniversary festivities.\n\n Thursday July 31st and Friday August 1st, 2003\n\n The Beginning\n\n The first two days of the Reunion are normally orientation nights at the Fox\n and the Fiddle, an Oakville\/Mississauga area pub, at which many of the \n activities throughout the weekend are based. These two nights provide \n attendees the opportunity to get used to their surroundings, in addition to\n many of the new faces they\u2019d undoubtedly encounter. It is here that the\n Reunion Committee and Thoric himself sell the various tickets needed for the\n weekend\u2019s events, in addition to Realms of Despair paraphernalia.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (37)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ _  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ \n                    |__\/ |___ |  | |\\ | | |  | |\\ |\n====================|  \\ |___ |__| | \\| | |__| | \\|===================\n\n  RoD Reunion 2003                                         by Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n\n Saturday August 2nd, 2003\n\n The Main Event\n\n The stage: The Ontario Renaissance Festival in Milton. The setting: a 16th\n century Tudor village known as Trillingham. This is the main draw for the\n Reunion every year thus far. To quote their website:\n\n    Performers from across North America continuously entertain on the \n    Festival's five stages while the streets and woods are filled with\n    characters to amuse and delight. Gasp at authentic full-armour combat\n    jousting, listen to balladeers and music ensembles, and marvel at amazing\n    jugglers, magicians, and comely wenches. More than one hundred performers\n    and characters fill the village with nonstop entertainment.\n\n    Within this charming realm, one will find an array of handmade crafts by\n    artisans from around North America including glass blowing, leatherwork,\n    clothing, woodworking, stained glass, pottery and metalwork. Be dazzled\n    by demonstrations while visiting the quaint shops. \n\n    Enjoy the shops and shows while sampling the feast of foods the Festival\n    has to offer. Savoury elections with portions fit for a king include\n    succulent Steak on a Stake, massive Smoked Turkey legs, sweet desserts,\n    and Knave Sandwiches. Quench your thirst with ales, mead, soft drinks,\n    lemonade, iced tea, and assorted wines. \n\n    Games of chance and skill are at every turn of the Festival. Free pony\n    rides and a free children's activities area offer fun for all ages.\n\n    (taken from http:\/\/www.rennfest.com\/orf\/general\/whatis.htm)\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (38)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ _  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ \n                    |__\/ |___ |  | |\\ | | |  | |\\ |\n====================|  \\ |___ |__| | \\| | |__| | \\|===================\n\n  RoD Reunion 2003                                         by Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n\n This year also saw the introduction of the Scavenger Hunt, now dubbed the\n Hunt of Despair, at the festival grounds. Dria, our first Mistress of the\n Hunt, put together a well-thought series of clues, incorporating some\n clever hiding places and special guest immortals. A total of ten teams \n participated in the event, with two teams finally coming out tied on top,\n with a total of 36 out of 40 clues solved\/items found.\n\n For those who\u2019s ideal day included a stroll through the shops and sampling\n the local fare, they probably managed to remain a tad drier than our poor\n questors, who were caught in an unfortunate rainfall. In addition, many\n festival acts will be remembered as particularity funny or amazing, but \n some of the more notable performances include The Tartan Terrors, Zoltan\n the Adequate, the Jousting Arena, Human Chess, and the annual crowd\n favourite, the MUD show. Beware of the splash zone...\n\n The Evening Affair\n\n This is usually the evening most Reunion participants make sure to attend.\n Various draws, prizes, and contests are held during this particular evening\n at the Fox and the Fiddle. This year, Moonbeam once again held her Annual\n Charity MUD-slave Auction, with all proceeds going to breast cancer research.\n The auction was a tremendous success, raising well over $2000 in a few hours.\n Dancing and merriment went well into the wee hours of the morning.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (39)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ _  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ \n                    |__\/ |___ |  | |\\ | | |  | |\\ |\n====================|  \\ |___ |__| | \\| | |__| | \\|===================\n\n  RoD Reunion 2003                                         by Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n\n Sunday August 3rd, 2003\n\n The BBQ Picnic\n\n The 7th Anniversary Reunion saw the introduction of this event into the\n weekend, and it turned out to be a great success. Thoric and a set of\n volunteers set aside a grand bbq feast for a nominal cost, and various\n activities out and about in Kelso Conservation Area were available to\n attendees. The 8th Anniversary Reunion saw the creation of the Games of\n Despair, an epic and grueling set of events mimicking the quests run on\n the Realms of Despair.\n\n This year, with the Scavenger Hunt moved to Saturday\u2019s main event, it left\n much more room for Pheayre, this year\u2019s Master of the Games, to organize\n some more unconventional events for the 2nd Annual Games of Despair. \n Included below are excerpts from the Games of Despair pamphlet describing\n the day\u2019s events:\n\n    The Test of Teamwork\n\n    Strength and dexterity go hand and hand with teamwork if you want to\n    win this event. How fast do you think you and your partner can work\n    together to win? The physically strong should beware: brute force will\n    not win you this event alone... in fact; it may impede you more than you\n    realize.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (40)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ _  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ \n                    |__\/ |___ |  | |\\ | | |  | |\\ |\n====================|  \\ |___ |__| | \\| | |__| | \\|===================\n\n  RoD Reunion 2003                                         by Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n\n    The Test of Fortitude\n\n    This event is not for the constitutionally challenged. The Test of\n    Fortitude requires you to plan your best route to victory, but do not\n    think for too long! Indecision can and will cost you the win. Do you\n    have the stomach to take the challenge? Gambling the wrong way will\n    give you pain... oh, the pain...\n\n    The Test of Courage\n\n    The final test requires all your wits and skills about you. Some say that\n    those that excel at this event have a sixth sense about how to move and\n    where to go at the right time. Others think it\u2019s just dumb luck. \n    Regardless of what you believe in, you better move fast and make sure it\n    counts, because you\u2019ve only got one shot to make the big time.\n\n The Test of Teamwork described the Three-Legged Water Race, which required\n teams of two to fill a water bucket several metres away with leaky water\n bottle. Witnesses would describe the race as a \"frantic dash for bruised\n ankles\" throughout the elimination and final rounds. Two teams even went\n as far as to have one member carrying the other while tied up, providing\n a spectacle of brute strength. These two inventive teams experienced some\n success, with one of them making it to the final round. However, it was pure\n teamwork that triumphed in the end, with Zanzidor and Nomak taking first prize.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (41)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ _  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ \n                    |__\/ |___ |  | |\\ | | |  | |\\ |\n====================|  \\ |___ |__| | \\| | |__| | \\|===================\n\n  RoD Reunion 2003                                         by Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n\n Who would be known as the MUDer with the Iron Stomach? The Test of Fortitude\n pit 21 contestants against each other to see who could eat a plate of sour\n gummy worms the fastest. In order to be considered finished, participants\n must eat their way through their entire plate and swallow every last piece\n of gummy worm. In the two separate rounds that followed, Jarrok and Whitlaw\n claimed supremacy over the gummy worms.\n\n The Test of Courage proved to be the main event to watch, as it forced\n players against each other in a merciless battle for \"survival of the driest\".\n Four participants enter, and one leaves dry. A water balloon was given to\n each contestant at the start of the round, and the four must maneuver, feint,\n and dodge their way into coming out without being hit in the trunk vicinity\n by a water balloon. Once a player used their single balloon up, they must\n manage to survive the remainder of the round without being hit. The round \n concludes once all four balloons in the arena have been spent. If more than\n one contestant survived, they re-enter the arena with another balloon to\n begin a second round of elimination. The field of players was eliminated\n until only nine players remained, who were then split into three teams of\n three. A series of team-oriented pk events ensued, with the team of Kord,\n Salidar, and Ventro coming out on top.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (42)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ _  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ \n                    |__\/ |___ |  | |\\ | | |  | |\\ |\n====================|  \\ |___ |__| | \\| | |__| | \\|===================\n\n  RoD Reunion 2003                                         by Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n\n After a full day at Kelso Conservation Area, Reunion-goers relaxed and\n unwound back at the Fox and the Fiddle, where the overall winners were\n announced:\n\n    1st Prize: Rikoles\n    2nd Prize: Kord\n    3rd Prize: Hoerkin\n\n Congratulations!\n\n Monday, August 4th, 2003\n\n Lunch and Movie\n\n By this time, many players that had come to the Reunion started making\n their way back to their respective homes. Those that were able to stay\n enjoyed a lunch and chocolate pudding toast to Thoric at Jack Astor\u2019s, \n and then 'Pirates of the Caribbean' at the Square One Silver City.\n\n Thus came to end the 9th Anniversary Realms of Despair Reunion.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (43)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ _  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ \n                    |__\/ |___ |  | |\\ | | |  | |\\ |\n====================|  \\ |___ |__| | \\| | |__| | \\|===================\n\n  RoD Reunion 2003                                         by Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n\n Recollections and Remarks\n\n What initially was thought to be a simple, cost-effective prelude to the\n 10th Anniversary Reunion ended up being a very successful weekend. Some\n precedents set: The Hunt of Despair at Rennfest, highest percentage \n participation so far in the Games of Despair, and a significant amount\n of money raised for breast cancer research through the MUD-slave Auction.\n Even the deluge of rain could not dampen the spirits of this year\u2019s \n Reunion participants; kudos to you to enjoying your time here to the fullest.\n\n Some of the more memorable points of the weekend, at least for myself:\n\n *    Sheep tricks, courtesy of the Tartan Terrors\n *    A very drunk and happy augurer throwing up on the flowers\n *    A pair of maidens being sold to the highest bidder (a whopping $500\n      donated from that single MUD-slave auction for breast cancer research)\n *    A warrior carrying his thief partner across the finish line with a\n      single arm\n *    A thief attempting to do the same with his mage partner but failing\n      to advance to the next round\n *    Another thief tumbling out of harm\u2019s way (balloons\u2019 way?) many times\n *    Water balloon treachery among the ranks of fellow ordermates\n *    All-out water terror once the water balloon pkill was completed\n\n And finally...\n\n *    A failed assassination attempt on the Master of the Games \n        (*glare Hoerkin* *glare Serina*)\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (44)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ____ _  _ _  _ _ ____ _  _ \n                    |__\/ |___ |  | |\\ | | |  | |\\ |\n====================|  \\ |___ |__| | \\| | |__| | \\|===================\n\n  RoD Reunion 2003                                         by Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n\n In closing, I\u2019d like to include another excerpt from this year\u2019s Games of\n Despair pamphlet:\n\n    The Realms of Despair Reunion could not have happened without the help\n    of many people. First and foremost, to the volunteers who dedicated\n    their free time to support the members of the Reunion Committee and\n    their plans of making this year\u2019s Reunion a success; know that your\n    assistance is greatly appreciated. To the individuals who contributed\n    funds to the Reunion; thank you for your generous donations. To Thoric,\n    the inspiration and creator of the Realms of Despair; without your\n    vision and creativity we wouldn\u2019t be gathered here together in the first\n    place. To the immortal staff; we are eternally grateful for your continued \n    efforts in administrating\/coding\/building for the Realms. Finally, to\n    you, the player, who have come from far and wide to partake in this year\u2019s\n    festivities; you are the reason the Realms of Despair continues to \n    exist. Thank you.\n\n This sums up the multitude of people that contributed to making this year\u2019s\n Reunion a success. It is really a combination of many talented people\u2019s efforts\n that come together to bring you the weekend of festivities to enjoy. Hopefully\n you can join us next year at the 10th Anniversary celebration, where Thoric\n plans many more surprises! If you wish to help with preparations, please\n contact anyone on the Reunion Committee, and read up on \u2018help reunion\u2019 and\n its associated help files.\n\n Finally, on behalf of the 9th Anniversary Reunion Committee, thank you for\n coming to the 2003 Realms of Despair Reunion.\n\n -Pheayre\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (45)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Stories From Aeriel's Guest Quest\n\n========================================================================\n\n One day, a young lady was out and visiting some of her friends in town. One \n of them handed her a letter...who happened to be from an old, long lost \n friend from another land. This letter stated that he was coming in to visit \n her soon, and was letting her know when he would arrive....\n\n But, alas! The postal service took their time about the delivery of the \n letter, and the date stated for the arrival of her friend was the very next \n day.\n\n On September 11, Aeriel held an item quest, asking players to help the above-\n mentioned young lady. They were to bring at least 15 items that she would \n need for her guest. Very entertained and impressed by the response, Aeriel \n decided to pass her notes along to the Cry of Despair, so we could share some \n of the most creative entries with all of you. :)\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (46)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Stories From Aeriel's Guest Quest\n\n========================================================================\n\n Entry 1: Calin's\n\n     a bottle of cheap wine\n     a goblet of wine (2)\n     a dress of black silk\n     a silver candelabra\n     a trollish vigor potion\n     a protection potion\n     an off-white gown\n     some chain shackles\n     a coil of rope\n     (Humming) a Camel Prod\n     a bead necklace\n     (Humming) a small seed\n     a clothe diaper\n     a baby bottle\n     (Humming) a chocolate candy\n     a tissue\n \n [Aeriel: This entry had me hysterical, read on for the explanation.]\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (47)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Stories From Aeriel's Guest Quest\n\n========================================================================\n\n items 1-3: a bottle of wine and glasses...a charming way to begin the \n evening, recalling the past times you have had with each other\n\n items 4 &#038; 5: a slinky dress and some candle light to set the mood\n\n items 6 &#038; 7:  well after some cautious flirting and a lot more wine you are \n prepared to show your friend exactly how much they were missed, a burst of \n vigor should set them right and keep them 'up' all night, and you should \n NEVER forget some protection\n\n items 8-11: and its out of the dress and into something a bit more revealing \n as you begin to apply your trade as RoD's kinkiest player...enter the \n shackles, rope, prod and love beads\n\n items 12 &#038; 13:  thank you for procreating. i'm sure the babe will look just \n like herne the end results for too much vigor and not enough protection\n\n items 14 &#038; 15: a tissue and chocolates...you spend the rest of your days \n lamenting over being just another booty-call\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (48)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Stories From Aeriel's Guest Quest\n\n========================================================================\n\n Entry 2: Jexia's\n\n The guest could well be hungry and thirsty when he arrives, so the young lady \n needs a choice of beverages.  For hot drinks, he has a choice of A CUP OF TEA \n or A CUP OF COFFEE, but if he doesn't feel like a hot drink, he could always \n have AN ICE COLD GLASS OF LEMONADE.  A tasty snack to help tide him over is a \n CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE.  Once he's settled in, he might want to sit by the \n fire and relax for a bit, in A PAIR OF FURRY SLIPPERS to keep his tootsies \n warm.  If he's not used to the weather, he might need AN ORANGE SWEATER. He \n might even smoke some LONG, GREY HERBS in A CLAY PIPE.\n\n I bet she wants to cook up a storm, and what could be tastier than a dinner \n of A THICK AND JUICY STEAK with A LARGE ORDER OF POUTINE on the side?  For \n nutrition's sake, there should be A BOWL OF MIXED VEGETABLES too, I suppose. \n They can wash it down with A MUG BRIMMING WITH FROTHY ALE, and follow it with \n a delicious dessert of A DELECTABLE MUD PIE.\n\n All that ale will probably make him sleepy, so he'll want to curl up in bed \n with A WHITE QUILT to keep him warm, as he reads A BOOK ENTITLED \"50 WAYS TO \n HEAL THE DYING\", by the light of A CANDLESTICK.  It's a very sad book, he \n might cry, in which case he'll need A TISSUE.\n\n In the morning, before a scrumptious breakfast of SEVERAL STRIPS OF BACON and \n A PLATTER OF EGGS, he'll need to freshen up, with a quick bath from A WATER \n JUG and A FISHBONE HAIR COMB to tidy his hair.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (49)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Stories From Aeriel's Guest Quest\n\n========================================================================\n\n Entry 3: Mephie's \n \n Oh gosh, the stupid postal service never gets things on time, and now you \n have a long lost friend comming for a visit?! Have no fear!  I am back once \n again to give you all the solutions you need!\n\n Well first, you're definately going to need something nice to wear..you don't \n want him knowing you've been staying up late night watching girly movies and \n eating ice cream! :P\n\n Throw on this yellow dress, it isn't too formal or casual, perfect for the \n occasion! (don't forget the matching sandals!)\n\n Okay, now that you know what to wear, you had better set up some \n entertainment, and food of course! Hey at least you have some beer in the \n fridge. But uh-oh, what about a real meal? Hmm, pizza seems the sure way to \n go! fastfoodforlifecough!\n\n You guys can eat pizza, talk about the old times, and get re-acquainted :) \n AND have one of your lovely home baked cherry pies! The sounds of angry \n peasants paying their damned taxes fills the Town Hall.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (50)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Stories From Aeriel's Guest Quest\n\n========================================================================\n\n Hey, don't remember how you and he first met? GAMBLING! That's right! What \n better than to rekindle a reunion than relive what brought you two together? \n :) Dig up that old dicing cup and shuffle that deck of cards because you two \n will be playing with risks tonight!  Ahh..those were the days...actually, you \n two also had another great passtime that could be a little naughty, but hey \n this is an occasion for celebration of a returning friend!  That's right, \n pull out your trippy bong and share that sweet clove!\n\n And, what a great way to end the night by watching one of your awesome \n movies.. That extra trippy halfling one, that needs 3d-glasses to watch! \n Uncover your stash of ice cream, and start scooping away! Muha :)  And when \n the night is finally over, have a glass of red wine and propose a toast to \n those good times... good times :)\n\n By the way! When you're picking up your friend-you might not want to forget \n your house key! Under that mat! Save tomorow for a day outdoors and scenery:)\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (51)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Guild\/Order News - GoC                                  by Angelea\n\n========================================================================\n\n Guild of Clerics\n\n Wow, another month has passed already in the GoC! Within that month we lost \n and gained two leaders! Sadly we had to say farewell to Chalamar as our first \n and welcomed Mnenarchment as our new second! Silfaere takes on the first \n position! We are sure that the recent changes will not only change the guild, \n but change it for the better! \n\n Other important things that have happened within the guild, Silfaere retired \n from TS and as IGQC rep. We gained Sentar as our new IGQC rep and Wren as the \n new TS rep! If you see them, please give them a gratz on that. \n\n As with the normal guild things, we have been running slowly and surely and \n showing all types of mobs who's the best class around! :p \n\n Last, but not least, GoC is pleased to welcome Sentar and Gormoth as its \n newest members. We hope their time with us will be just as fun as we have had \n thus far. Also we welcome back Kissandra within our ranks, she took a short \n break away, but is now back and fits in more than ever.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (52)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Guild\/Order News - GoR                                  by Angelea\n\n========================================================================\n\n This month the Guild of Rangers would like to welcome our new pledges: \n Lykeas, Theodore, and Threndil. We hope you enjoy your time in the guild.\n\n Elendure, Krim and Laurent have passed their reviews and are now full members \n of the guild. Congratulations to the three of you.\n\n Our birthday rangers include Jessel and Zargon. We hope you had a great day \n and hopefully the birthday spanks didn't hurt too much.\n\n We'd like to offer a big thank you to Barthak who is stepping down as guild \n Second. It was great having you in leadership. Thanks for all your work and \n good luck with your future endeavors.\n\n Interested in joining the guild? Follow the northeast path off DH[] and pick \n up a guide and talk to an RQC member. Or visit the guild webpage at:\n\n                  http:\/\/rangers.silverwolf-den.com\/\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (53)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Guild\/Order News - GoV                                  by Angelea\n\n========================================================================\n\n The Guild of Vampires greets you!\n\n The following Chylder were inducted since last time: Ziil, Faonalyan, \n Kathar and Erox.  We also wish to congratulate our newest full members: \n Kjeldon, Temon, Varyx, Ariez, Vikki and Reual.\n\n May Aalakab have mercy on their souls.\n\n We have done some running, some pkilling and some exploring this month. Some \n of our members have noted a new puzzle or two around the Realms. Very \n puzzling.  We will figure them out though.\n\n If you are a vampire level 20 or higher and are looking for a home, why not \n stop by our recruiting board (help map) and fill out an application today? \n Visit our web site at:\n                        www.guildofvampires.com\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (54)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Guild\/Order News - GoM                                  by Angelea\n\n========================================================================\n\n Guild of Mages\n\n Crazy month in GoM, folks. We'd like to start by offering a round of applause \n to our dear Dobby, who was recently voted in as our new Guild Second!  So, \n congratulations to Dobby! Elections were called due to Treva stepping down, \n and we'd all like to thank him for the work he carried out whilst in \n leadership. Also, a toast to Hardaker and Xynthia, who were recently joined \n in ascii holy matrimony. Best of luck to the pair of them, and we'd imagine \n you all agree!\n\n Our run teams have been smashing up various mobs around the lands, including \n the likes of Bammy, Lord X and the infamous Zeus. The latter has had \n considerably more attention than the rest as a result of our infinitely \n hilarious Mob of the Week scheme, in which we brutalise some poor geezer for \n 7 days! Great times...\n\n Busy month for the Induction team too, we'd like to introduce y'all to \n Lorana, Mattusallem, Inel, Catrynia, Rentuke, Kuruvar and Fyndra, all of whom \n have been inducted over the last month or so.\n\n Well, ladies and gents, that's all for now. If you're interested in joining \n our simply _incredible_ guild, get in touch with a member of our IT council \n or head 2e, s, se from the square and take a look at the noteboard :)\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (55)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Guild\/Order News - GoP                                  by Angelea\n\n========================================================================\n\n Guild of Paladins\n\n This month hasn't been the busiest month as people are starting to head back \n to school.\n\n A new council was formed, named \"Donations Council\" or DT for short. The \n council is responsible for keeping donations stocked with the basics as well \n as helping newer people with equipping themselves. Aleq has been chosen as \n leader of this council and we are sure he'll do us proud.\n\n New members this month include Demeatry and Danae. Congratulations to \n Demeatry for recently aving. Also a congratulations goes to Ryhaan for \n becoming a full member.\n\n Lastly, Puriya has retired from the game. We wish her the best with whatever \n she decides to do.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (56)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Guild\/Order News - GoA                                  by Angelea\n\n========================================================================\n\n This month the Guild of Augurers welcome a new member Gauden to our ranks. \n Welcome to the guild Gauden!\n\n The GoA also put forth great representation in Thalasian's mass pkill quest. \n Adaez, Fanalon, and Mitsuru showed up with Adaez scoring 4th and Fanalon \n taking everyone out for a first place victory, Gratz to Fanalon and that's \n only a small show of what we'll do it igpk this year *wink*\n\n If you are looking to come join the Guild of Auggies we are a friendly bunch \n and are always looking for new members. Come nw, 3w, nw of Darkhaven Square \n to get to our recruiting office or talk to any IT or Leader to see about \n joining this great guild.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (57)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Guild\/Order News - GoT                                  by Angelea\n\n========================================================================\n\n This past month has seen quite a bit of activity within the guild.\n\n Some mobs that have met with a grisly fate were Kahl, Guenevere, Corsterix, \n Sin, Olsen and more than there is room on this page to list. Ransal completed \n ARC I, Kirg and Zilensko ARC II, Well done thieves.\n\n We made room in the catacombs for new members. Celixia, Nekojin and Ralthrak \n made the guild their home. Welcome to all of you. Irvine, and Druna passed \n their one month review and are now full members.\n\n The Scribes of Stealth have been busy exploring new places or places that \n have seen a face lift. Recently, Underworld has been their favored hang out.\n\n The guild is a fun place to be for any thief level 20 or higher. If you wish \n to join us, come see us 3s, 2w, 1n, 1w from DH square or send an IT or Leader \n a tell anytime.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (58)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Sea-Elf Nation News\n\n========================================================================\n\n On Friday, September 12, 2003 at 8:00PM EST the Aerandiri (Sea-Elf) nation \n Treste (First), who had temporarily been acting in the capacity of Uelma \n (Nations Leader\/Voice), proudly crowned Arven Wren T'alathreal de LifeWind as \n the unanimously elected Uelma an'Aerandiri (Nations Leader\/Voice). The light \n from the crown was said to touch every Sea-Elf present at the most joyful of \n occasions.  After the election Uelma Wren retained the elder Cetrok D'Clend \n Aengdi as Treste an'Aerandiri (First, SEN).  \n\n The Aerandiri National Council would like to thank everyone who attended for \n helping to make it a memorable event.  An extra special thanks goes out to \n all the Immortals who were involved in helping make it happen.  And the SEN\n council also wishes Uelma Wren the best in this new endeavor!\n \n The council is also looking for avid members who would like to join them. \n Please apply with Wren or post a note at the nations board.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (59)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ ____ ____ _    _  _ ____    _  _ ____ _ _ _ ____\n           |__\/ |___ |__| |    |\\\/| [__     |\\ | |___ | | | [__\n===========|  \\ |___ |  | |___ |  | ___]    | \\| |___ |_|_| ___|========\n\n  Inter Guild Quest for September                             by Wiglaff\n\n========================================================================\n \n The prospect of quild teams encouraged maximum participation with all\n guild producing full teams.\n  \n The instructions were vague; nothing was known in advance except that\n everyone was to be naked, with just a light ball, a magic carpet and a\n shop bag containing recalls.\n  \n The quest consisted of three parts, equipping the whole team within an\n hour, a pkill and finally a 'find your way home without recalling'.\n  \n Everyone competed and completed the quest with wit and imagination.\n  \n It was noted that the members of the Guild of Vampires, the representative\n of whom had set the quest were honoured as the first targets in the\n arena.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (60)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ _  _ _  _ _  _ _   _    ___  ____ _  _ ____ ____\n           |___ |  | |\\ | |\\ |  \\_\/     |__] |  | |\\ | |___ [__\n===========|    |__| | \\| | \\|   |      |__] |__| | \\| |___ ___]========\n\n  Top 20 Things Not to Say in a Newbie Council Interview      by Sarakin\n\n========================================================================\n\n 1. What's a newbie?\n 2. I hear your bloodmob is HOT.\n 3. Those giant marshmallows rule.\n 4. Yeah im usually on like 2 hrs per wk..\n 5. I wanna be an immz0rz!\n 6. Brb - I have to go put my wife in her cage.\n 7. I know OF the Tower of Knowledge..\n 8. I just wanna be Stonehefts groupie.\n 9. Newbies DON'T level with 5 clerics, you say?\n 10. You try to rub the skin of an innocent newbie on yourself..\n 11. I figure the pay is decent enough.\n 12. You chat 'SHHHH you losers im in an interview!'\n 13. Well TS was full so I decided to come here.\n 14. I hear Tuesday is 'get naked in hq' day.\n 15. What are the special commands again?\n 16. How about I 'leave' this Justice in your inv? ;)\n 17. The warehouse? Dude, thats where I keep my stash!\n 18. I think EVERYONE should go out of their way to help deadlies.\n 19. His corpse is in darkhaven with 30 ticks left? CALL AN IMM!!!\n 20. After this interview whats say you and I go back to my house..\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (61)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n           ____ _  _ _  _ _  _ _   _    ___  ____ _  _ ____ ____\n           |___ |  | |\\ | |\\ |  \\_\/     |__] |  | |\\ | |___ [__\n===========|    |__| | \\| | \\|   |      |__] |__| | \\| |___ ___]========\n\n  Funny Titles                       Contributed by Aeriel &#038; Angelea\n\n========================================================================\n\n Abelard empowered by your local viagra distributor {BOT}\n Anakin Skywalker - Runs with the force.\n Arlo: Wait we can't stop here, this is bat country!! \n Bruxelles wonders how many times her title can be in the Cry.\n Drune Divine, nearly unwanted Archbunny of Sadness.\n Fanalon makes spinning blasts of coloured gas.\n Farwen says Don't corner anything meaner than you\n Guenhwyvar-if i want a social experience,i'll buy an antfarm.\n Kitya is definitely bubble covered.\n Kortir Silverleaf: Real life is just a webcomic.\n Lady Skaphia is the perfect drug.\n Loupgarous de Lioncourt howls at the full moon!!\n Melindora, fangoriously devoured by a gelatinous monster! \n Petrograd brandishes the head of a snake on a long wooden stick.\n Poromenos, token idiot. \n Ranstlin thinks people are funny in their natural habitat.\n Rentuke says, \"Don't kill my falcon!\" \n Sapetalus Firefist has a huge pfile and knows you're jealous.\n Syriac is dead, beckon soul as needed.. \n Waldo swears someone is stalking him.\n Xardellion needs a girl whos name does not end in .jpg.\n Zendroax has taught Ariez the Old Ways of afk'ing.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (62)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                ____ ____ ___     ____ _  _ ____ ____ ___\n                |    |  | |  \\    |  | |  | |___ [__   |\n================|___ |__| |__\/    |_\\| |__| |___ ___]  |================\n\n  September Quest Results                                 by Alysira\n\n========================================================================\n\n This quest gave you the opportunity to let your imagination and creativity \n take over, and design a room of your choosing. After careful consideration, \n the following two entries were selected as the winners...\n\n                     Congratulations Aylssa and Fiebin!\n\n Aylssa entered a room from her house, and Fiebin entered a room he thought \n up. Well done both of you =) Please see me for your prizes A.S.A.P.\n\n The next two pages will show Aylssa's and Fiebin's entries, respectively. \n Please respect that these belong to Aylssa and Fiebin, oh, and be sure to \n point out to them what talented builders they are ;)\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (63)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                ____ ____ ___     ____ _  _ ____ ____ ___\n                |    |  | |  \\    |  | |  | |___ [__   |\n================|___ |__| |__\/    |_\\| |__| |___ ___]  |================\n\n  September Quest Results                                 by Alysira\n\n========================================================================\n\n The Loft - Aylssa's Room\n.             ____________________________________________\n             |                                            |\n             |!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!|\n              #####   ###                      ###   #####\n         ,    #####   ###                      ###   #####    ,\n        ')`   #####   ###                      ###   #####   '(`\n        `('   #####   ###                      ###   #####   `)'\n         U    #####   ###                      ###   #####    U\n      o  |  o #####   ###                      ###   ##### o  |  o\n       . | .  #####   ###                      ###   #####  . | .  \n        .|.   #####   ###        .'```'.       ###   #####   .|.\n         !    #####   ### .'``''`       `''``'.###   #####    !\n              #####   #''`        _   _        `'#   #####\n      ________#####.'`    .oooO  \/ ) ( \\  Oooo.   `'.#####______\n              #####       (   )`\/ (`'`) \\`(   )      #####\n              #####     .'`\\ ( (   ) (   ) ) \/`'.    #####\n              #####--.'`----\\_).oooO-Oooo.(_\/----`'.-#####    \n              #####||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||#####\n              #####||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||#####\n              #####!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!#####\n Exits: down\n Embedded in the southern wall, a fireplace burns with intensity.\n (Glowing) A brightly glowing lamp adds warmth to any room.\n A tiny, round bedside table sits here.\n A less than clean bedsheet is wadded up here and should be washed.\n An imposing black marble armoire stands here.\n A handful of rose petals rests lightly on the ground nearby.              \n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (64)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                ____ ____ ___     ____ _  _ ____ ____ ___\n                |    |  | |  \\    |  | |  | |___ [__   |\n================|___ |__| |__\/    |_\\| |__| |___ ___]  |================\n\n  September Quest Results                                 by Alysira\n\n========================================================================\n\n Location: Climb at A Cemetery Before the Forest in the Burrows.\n \n Secret Treeden\n Many wooden planks have been clumsily nailed together to form somewhat of a \n platform. Blood stains and torn clothing curtain jutting nails which have \n been poorly driven in. Layers of entangled sticks, twigs and leaf litter \n feebly conceal the many holes in the platform. Though directly under the \n crown of the horse-chestnut, obstructing clusters of leaves have been \n forcefully removed, allowing a clear view of the nearby landscape. Rays of \n light penetrate the lush green leaves, revealing the intricate network of \n capillaries within them. Deep scratches of immaturity have vandalised the \n truck of the tree, however interesting it may appear. A makeshift bolt atop \n the hinged hatch allows for privacy for those who desire it.\n Exits: [down]\n A layer of old sticks, twigs and leaf litter covers a large hole.\n A (hard\/soft\/shiny\/dull\/young\/old\/oval\/round\/rotten) conker waits here.\n Jimmy Smokeherb paints his name on one of the wooden planks.\n Alice Twopennies reads the latest gossip from the truck of the tree.\n\n Room Extradesc:\n examine (truck\/vandalism\/scratches):\n          Jimmy loves Rose\n             0 2 1 1 0\n              2 3 2 1\n               5 5 3\n               10 8\n                18         aww...\n\n Room notes: Boltable hatch. Tunneled to 5. Requires you to climb from A \n Cemetery Before the Forest get up. Randomized conker. Can sit\/stand on \n layer of sticks but will fall back down to A Cemetery Before the Forest \n room. Room extradesc is the 'compatibility calculation'.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (65)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                ____ ____ ___     ____ _  _ ____ ____ ___\n                |    |  | |  \\    |  | |  | |___ [__   |\n================|___ |__| |__\/    |_\\| |__| |___ ___]  |================\n\n  October Find-A-Word Quest                      by Alysira &#038;&#038; Jexia\n\n========================================================================\n\n We are proud this month to offer you a quest that has been written by a very \n devoted (and constantly questing) reader, Jexia! She has written this month's \n quest, which is a Find-a-Word. Your entries must be received by the 18th of \n October, and 2 random entries will be chosen as winners. Good luck!\n \n There are the names of      0_1_2_3_4_5_6_7_8_9_10 \n 21 immortals hidden in    a|D M Y R A T L A C I T\n the letter grid.  Find    b|M A E B N O O M C T T\n all 21 and the letters    c|P I R H E N R E H H A\n left over will spell a    d|H L O S A P I A O N K\n secret phrase.            e|E A C S H R L R T O I\n                           f|A K T R A A I N O D A\n Please submit your        g|Y H E N S C N I V E K\n answers using the         h|R D A I X U N I K S D\n following format:         i|E E A C O N R A N T O\n 1) 1a-4a MYRA             j|I N M M I N A M O R L\n etc, and the secret       k|T F E H E N O T S E B\n phrase underneath.\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (66)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n                    ____ ___  _ ___ ____ ____ _ ____ _\n                    |___ |  \\ |  |  |  | |__\/ | |__| |\n====================|___ |__\/ |  |  |__| |  \\ | |  | |___===============\n\n  From the Quill of Alysira                                 by Alysira \n\n========================================================================\n\n Greetings, readers.\n\n September just flew right by, and now we welcome the month of October.\n The month of Halloween and... Hmm, not much else happens in October...\n Oh well, we've got an incredibly full issue to keep you occupied for at\n LEAST 10 minutes ;) Seriously, our staff has worked extra hard and given\n a wonderfully full issue this month. Well done guys!\n\n Apart from our regular articles, we have a few special things, including\n an article from the not-so-gone Pheayre, recapping this years Reunion!\n Many thanks to Pheayre for doing this article and I hope you all find it\n incredibly interesting =)\n\n We have a new column beginning this month too, as Juliana already stated,\n the Public Cry. This is, pretty much, a place where you can post almost\n any announcements you may have that would need the attention of the MUD.\n Like a community notice board ;) If you need something posted there, just\n MUDmail it to me.\n\n That's it from me for this month. Keep happy and safe everyone =)\n -Alys\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (67)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------ \n\n    ____ _  _ _  _ ____ _  _ _  _ ____ ____ _  _ ____ _  _ ___ ____\n    |__| |\\ | |\\ | |  | |  | |\\ | |    |___ |\\\/| |___ |\\ |  |  [__\n====|  | | \\| | \\| |__| |__| | \\| |___ |___ |  | |___ | \\|  |  ___]=====\n\n  New Announcements Section Opening!\n\n========================================================================\n\n          \/---------------------------------------------------\\\n          | \/-----------------------------------------------\\ |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Have something important to say, but don't    | |\n          | | have anywhere to say it?                      | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Consider advertising in the Cry of Despair!   | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Organization leaders, wedding planners,       | |\n          | | anything and everything appropriate will be   | |\n          | | considered, formatted to your liking, and     | |\n          | | posted here free of charge!                   | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Just MUDmail your annoucement to Alysira, and | |\n          | | you'll receive it back just as it will appear | |\n          | | in the CoD, open to changes if neccessary.    | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | \\-----------------------------------------------\/ |\n          \\---------------------------------------------------\/\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (68)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n    ____ _  _ _  _ ____ _  _ _  _ ____ ____ _  _ ____ _  _ ___ ____\n    |__| |\\ | |\\ | |  | |  | |\\ | |    |___ |\\\/| |___ |\\ |  |  [__\n====|  | | \\| | \\| |__| |__| | \\| |___ |___ |  | |___ | \\|  |  ___]=====\n\n  Cry of Despair is Hiring!\n\n========================================================================\n\n          \/---------------------------------------------------\\\n          | \/-----------------------------------------------\\ |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Are you looking for a new challenge in life?  | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Want to meet interesting, and even not-so-    | |\n          | | interesting people?                           | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Want to discover new aspects of the game?     | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Want your voice to be heard by the whole MUD? | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | And... Want to get paid for it all?           | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Then look at a career in journalism! Send a   | |\n          | | short application and sample article via      | |\n          | | MUDmail to both Juliana and Alysira if you're | |\n          | | interested in joining the Cry of Despair      | |\n          | | staff.                                        | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | | Hope to hear from you soon!                   | |\n          | |                                               | |\n          | \\-----------------------------------------------\/ |\n          \\---------------------------------------------------\/\n\n========================================================================\n                                                                  (69)\n------------------------------------------------------------------------\n\n    ____ _  _ _  _ ____ _  _ _  _ ____ ____ _  _ ____ _  _ ___ ____\n    |__| |\\ | |\\ | |  | |  | |\\ | |    |___ |\\\/| |___ |\\ |  |  [__\n====|  | | \\| | \\| |__| |__| | \\| |___ |___ |  | |___ | \\|  |  ___]=====\n\n  Write a Review For RoD!\n\n========================================================================<\/pre>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introducing Herald Assembly! Underworld Re-opens! Reviews: Reunion, metagames, runs, more! ======================================================================== ,-\/ \\-,_ ,-&#8220;\/ \/ , , \\ \\&#8221;-,., \/&#8217; \/ | \/(_ .|&#8221;&#8221;, .|&#8217;; _)\\ | \\ &#8216;\\ \/&#8217;\/ \/ \\,_\/ .\\|| || \/, \\_,\/ \\ \\&#8217;\\ \/ | | \/, ,-&#8216;|| &#8216;||&#8221;| &#8216;|| ||` .|&#8221;|, &#8216;||&#8217; `-, ,\\ | | \\ | |&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-templates\/full-width.php","meta":{"footnotes":"","_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"class_list":["post-1875","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1875","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1875"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1875\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1886,"href":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1875\/revisions\/1886"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/realmsofdespair.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1875"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}