July 2010

Sosarian Solstice Fair Night - Thursday
Posted on Saturday, July 31, 2010, 4:23 PM EDT by Morpheus Mardox (Chesapeake)
Sosarian Solstice Fair Night Thursdays eve brought the realm another fine installment of the Sosarian Solstice Fair. The nights events on tap were the "Balron Tipping" competition, "Duck Shoot", and the surpise event "Mesanna Roulette" Patrons gathered outside the south luna gate at the fairgrounds for what was a grand night of fun and community. Tom of UHOH was the winner of the nights Balron tipping event! With Someone and Lethes rounding out the top three! I managed to have my hand at tipping one of the slightly unsteady Balrons, even managed to put him on his keister! Next up with quite the elaborate setup was the nights "Duck Shoot." Waterfowl of the golden variety lined the fairgrounds pond as contestants went one by one taking thier shot at one duck per player in search of the golden ticket held by one special duck. Contestants were issued finely tuned duck hunting bows to aid in thier efforts! The events winner to be enamored with a plaque in the shard reward hall bearing his name was Masta Blasta (fitting name) with Rachiel in second! And for the Fairs finale "Mesanna Roulette!" The benevolently evil one herself in attendance, brave souls one by one stepped up to try thier luck at a game of life's chance rolling the dice in attempt to match the number Mesanna held aside in order to spare thier life! Few and I do mean few were lucky enough to escape with thier hitpoint collection in tact as bodies lay scattered along the grounds with a wave of Mesanna's hand. Players were rewarded with participatory aprons bearing the mark of the evil one herself! Special Thanks to our EM Team for a wonderful night of fun at the fair!
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EM Meet & Greet, Sunday 2PM PST
Posted on Saturday, July 31, 2010, 4:05 PM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
This just in from the Baja EM Website: Title: Meet and Greet Location: EM Office (West Britain) Start Time: 2:00 PST Date: 2010-08-01 End Time: 3:00 PST
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This Month On Europa (July 2010)
Posted on Saturday, July 31, 2010, 3:49 PM EDT by Mapper (Europa)
Edition 4: July 2010 written by Mapper Danger Level: HIGH Welcome This monthly article will wrap things up for the previous month, Missed an event? Read here to catch up on the entire months events, both player and event moderator events. Have a suggestion or event to advertise? Send it to [email protected] it would be greatly received. Danger Level HIGH in all Cities Daemonic Scouts have been spotted in Vesper, Luna, Minoc and Britain on Saturday Morning. These creatures are extremely tough and in short described as 'Paragon Putrifiers'. Players should be on high alert when visiting towns and also bank sitting at Luna or Britain banks. Guards have been put on high alert at Castle British in Britain. The Bane to move on? You may have noticed and even took part in the war between the Bane and Ophidians in the Lost Lands. Well rumour has it the Bane are moving on from the Ophidians and will be setting up camp at the Spirituality gate in Ilshenar. Who will they attack next? Well it seems likely it could be the Meer! More news in another article when it arrives. EM Event News July has brought another busy month for the Royal Guard, But before I get into what we acomplished this month, A quick roundup of last months events! Last month Drow mining caves in Yew and Vesper were invaded and the dragons and drow inside killed. Miners inside the caves were sadly also killed during the battle. Queen Dawn met up with the citizens of Britannia to discuss several proposals - She declined them all. Later in the month Nathan Hawke teamed up with Vesper and using a tunnel in the Vesper Graveyard discovered another graveyard in the Lost Lands which led to an Ancient Silver Serpent lair. This month on the 4th of July Queen Dawn called the citizens of Britannia to her castle in Britain. A builder was just about to travel down into a hole he had dug to try retrieve a crystal. He sucessfully retrieved the gem and it can be found on display in Castle British. Click to read the full report. Later that day the citizens of Skara Brae were hit by surprise as Blackrock infected creatures and giant green demons began attacking the city. After the battle had ended a red staff could be collected from a statue, The staff shoots of a random amount of fireworks. They are no longer obtainable. -------------------- The next week on the 17th of July Nathan Hawke gathered up the Royal Guard to rescue Father Grant. After a search of the area around Papua, Father Grants shoes were found next to the Ancient Silver serpent Lair that had bene discovered in June. Click to read the full report. Suddenly the group were attacked by assassins. After the assassins had been killed Father Grant was pulled out of the hole by some rope and taken to Trinsic to keep an eye on his serpent eggs which are located on Paladin Isle. -------------------- The week later on the 22nd of July Nathan Hawke once again gathered the Royal Guard. A final Drow mining cave was to be invaded and cleared, A password was found from boxes located randomly around Britannia - The Honor Shrine, Near Britain, Near Cove and finally Near Yew. Click to read the full report. With the password found Nathan gated everyone to the entrance and the battle began. Finally the Royal Guard won against the tough creatures and everyone was able to claim a Dark Elf Longsword. These are also no longer obtainable. -------------------- At the end of the month on the 27th of July Fynn Barrett, Replacement for Nathan Hawke due to an injury, Took the guard on a practice rescue mission. Click to read the full report. Out of around 30 miners, Only 2 were saved. Fynn Barrett has yet to tell the Royal Guard when miners stuck down a mining shaft are to be rescued, After the training session I dare say they shouldn't bother. RP Event News Stonekeep celebrated its 10th anniversary this month, One of the longest living player towns on Europa. Congratulations to all those who keep the Yewish army fresh and busy! ----------------------------------- The new Chancellor of Vesper has caused chaos among the Vesperian Army and its citizens with Tax increased and rumoured Guard pay cuts! All citizens will have to pay 10% of all earnings to the city! Guardsmen will also have to pay tax with that being taken from their wages. If that wasn't enough the Guard have also been rumoured to be getting a 20% pay decrease! This will surely cause even more chaos in the City of Vesper. Special Report: Player Towns You may have noticed over the past couple of months the EMs of Europa have been requesting players with towns to write in and request a banner! Well I have been looking around and have found three new player towns and their banners! If you have a player town and want your own permanent banner you can read all the requirements and details at this link. Events Coming Up in August There are several player taverns open throughout each week, See the full schedule here to see when one is open, The recently opened Yew Tree Tavern has been added to the schedule this month. Don't forget the Vesper Swaggers Market every Tuesday at 8pm UK Time, Outside the Swaggers Tavern near Vesper, Full details here. The Bane continue to attack the Ophidians in the Lost Lands however with the rumour of them moving to Spirituality will the battle become harder? Who knows! I will post an article if and when the Bane decide to move into Ilshenar. The second season of the Europa Chicken Season will be restarting on the 9th of August at 8pm. Gates will be available from 7:45pm in Luna - If you have a rune to the Arena or wish to walk please note the Arena has moved 15 tiles to the east of the old Arena, Someone will be at the old location to direct you. So get your chickens ready! You could be in with a chance to snap up a fantasic prize! Note: Any events that are announced after this is posted will be in two places, Either the Europa Forum or the Europa Events Forum. EM events have the tag [EM Event] at the start so keep an eye out! Final Notes Finally I would like to personally wish Escaflowne and Hanse Davion the best of luck as they have decided to part from Vesper and Ultima Online. It's been a wonderful 6 months roleplaying with you both and I wish you the best of luck in whatever you do next. See you next month for another edition of This Month on Europa!
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Danger Alert to all Cities
Posted on Saturday, July 31, 2010, 12:11 PM EDT by Mapper (Europa)
Danger Alert to all Cities Danger Level: HIGH Daemonic Scouts have been spotted in Vesper, Luna, Minoc and Britain on Saturday Morning. These creatures are extremely tough and in short described as 'Paragon Putrifiers'. Players should be on high alert when visiting towns and cities and also bank sitting at Luna or Britain banks. Guards have been put on high alert at Castle British in Britain.
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Announcement From The SKS Shipping Company
Posted on Friday, July 30, 2010, 2:20 PM EDT by Merik ONN (Chesapeake)
Announcement From The SKS Shipping Company Skeleton Key Shipping HQ, Kijustsu Anei Keys Friday, July 30, 2010 From Orin the Skeleton Key Shipping Company Owner: With the recent water contamination affecting the Felucca facet and the risk of contamination in trammel, which will affect many townships including those of the Crown. Our Shipping Company has been flooded with orders for drinks brewed in the Keys. -Cherry Blossom Liquor -Mesanna's Void Rum -Maple Honey Ale -Savage Berry Wine -Water The Skeleton Key Shipping Company hired Kaiko, who is best known for her work at Zedland Lake located inside of Zedland city. She has been working round the clock testing the Berry Vines, Hops and the water well that is located below the SKS building. We are happy to report that Kaiko, informed us the water well and plants are not contaminated. She also informed us that the water well appears to be a self sustaining well and is not connected to any underground water streams. Now I must give you the bad news. With so many orders the company cannot fill all of them as fast as we would like too. We have managed to work out a new contract with our workers. They have agreed to work longer hours for more gold. Please be sure to read the shipping prices HERE and the following price additions below. Allies: No price change Good Relations: +1,000gp per small crate (12 bottles) Neutral Relations: +10,000gp per small crate (12 bottles) Strained Relations: +25,500gp per small crate (12 bottles) Enemies: +165,950gp per small crate (12 bottles) Crown Townships: No charge for shipment, ale or water orders Royal Guard: No charge for shipment, ale or water orders Citizens of the realm! Do not allow your towns government to risk your health, by purchasing water and other drinks. Would you risk drinking something that may or may not be contaminated?!?! Would you risk giving it to your family members?!?! Even the Crown has posted a warning! “All citizens are advised to drink only fine spirits, ales, and wines. Until the source of the contamination can be detected and eliminated, so ordered this day” ~Tavalia Zodok Remember plants that grow the ingredients to make all of these drinks use the water below! So if it is contaminated then your spirits, ales and wines might be as well!!! The SKS Shipping Company is booming with orders. We are one of the only active and established companies! Be sure to use the Keys until this contamination mystery is unlocked!
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X Marks the Spot.
Posted on Friday, July 30, 2010, 11:33 AM EDT by Petra Fyde (CommunityNews)
Ultima Online Stratics Weekly Announcement: Or is it a pin? This week has been spent mainly on test shard to bring you: In anticipation of the coming changes to Treasure Hunt Quests, we have documented as much as we're able of the publish's details. Our thanks to those who reported their findings on the Fishing and Treasure Hunting Forum. This page will be added to as more becomes known. Also updated for the coming publish, Bard Mastery Once again our thanks to Beastmaster, even more Hunter's Guide entries now have fame/karma figures. Thank you too to Camtha who spotted a discrepency in our figures for Hell hounds, we're not quite sure when these were changed, we can find nothing documenting it. Finally, once again we hope you approve our choice of 'pic of the week'. To contribute information please email to: [email protected], [email protected] or you can just send a pm to Petra Fyde. Thank you.
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[EM] State of the Guard Meeting – July 2010
Posted on Friday, July 30, 2010, 5:25 AM EDT by Crysta (LakeSuperior)
Posted to the EM news site; Queen Dawn has ordered a regular meeting of the Royal Guard to discuss current happenings, as well as serve pending promotions as Guardsmen earn them. It looks like there will be a nice handful of Guardsmen reaching the rank of private for the very first State of the Guard meeting. All are requested to attend. When: Saturday, July 31st at 8pm CST. Where: Castle Britannia, Trammel. The EM site itself is here [a new link to the old website].
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Origin Update - Publish 67 Now Available!
Posted on Thursday, July 29, 2010, 4:16 PM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald.com: Origin Update - Publish 67 Now Available! James Nichols 28 Jul 2010 17:52:56 Greetings! Players on Origin will be able to experience what Publish 67 has to offer. Below are the most recent changes. For the full list of notes for Publish 67 click here - have fun! Publish 67 Notes Adding SOT’s to Felucca Treasure chests Added updated properties to the Mana Phase Orb Can no longer imbue Durability onto a Brittle item Pre Existing Ilshenar Treasure Maps will now be tagged with an Artifact Rarity 0 tag Item counts have been adjusted for all treasure chests Added Reagents back to the chests Forged Pardons drop chance has been reduced
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Township Summit Report 7/28/10
Posted on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 9:46 PM EDT by Merik ONN (Chesapeake)
Township Summit Report Wednesday, July 28, 2010 Castle, Britain Tavalia Zodok opened the meeting with an announcement from her Majesty. She wished to offer her sincerest thanks for everyone’s assistance determining the cause of disappearing Gypsies. Guardians Gate previously petitioned the crown to remove El Allisande from the table due to inactivity and desertion of the realm. She asked if anyone in the hall had any objections. The governor of PaxLair asked about buildings and if they are gone. Tavalia informed the governor it has been a long time since a resident from the town has sat at the table. The town also appears to be deserted. The township known as Al Ellisande has ejected from the summit table and will be added to the historical records. Tavalia Zodok shuffled some paper and chuckled some after finding a note. The note contained information on a force advancing on the city of Britain. The large military force should make landfall on Sunday evening. Unsure if the note was a mistake, she went on to say that it cannot be ignored, fake or real. “By order of Her Majesty the City of Britain is hereby placed on High Alert until Monday morning. Royal guard forces as well as all able citizens throughout the realm are asked to stand in defense of any threats that the City of Britain may face on Sunday, the Thirty-First of July.” Tavalia took a shot in the dark saying they may reach the city around ten o'clock. It would seem that the Livery Guild is looking to expand its number of stations throughout the realm. They are offering any interested township the opportunity to achieve a designation of Station. Any interested township may deposit a post in the mailbox at the Hall of Commons, designated for the Livery guild. Governor Winfield of the PaxLair Statehood requested to bring in an expert to address the summit. With the permission of Tavalia Zodok, Walt the Chemist informed all the townships in attendance about the quality of the waters and such in the realm. The locations in the Realm where he took samples were from the Pond of Peace (Aryslan), the Spring of Courage (PaxLair), The Well of Souls (Near Aryslan) and the Swamps (Guardians Gate). Walt is investigating if recent undead sightings are the cause for the waters being contaminated. Walt believes all of the water supplies in every township are connected together by an underground stream and all towns in every land could be in danger. They requested to take samples from the Castle moat and permission was granted by Tavalia. “All citizens are advised to drink only fine spirits, ales, and wines. Until the source of the contamination can be detected and eliminated, so ordered this day” ~Tavalia Zodok Ashlynn representing PaxOku suggested a motion to relieve Commander Drake Foxx of duty. Given Commander Foxx's record of success and Her Majesty's respect for him, her request was denied. Jamlyn Hakkendyn returned to the water subject. The Aryslan pond of Peace, and PaxLairs spring of Courage has certainly been attacked directly by the undead invasions. There has been "polluted Beats" coming out of each location and some found in the Rock Dungeon. Aryslan will be looking for the undead and the "Servant" and any township wishing to aid them in their search. The townships that announced to help thus far are Guardians Gate, PaxLair and Dragons Watch. They request aid from every township to help put an end to the servant. The Servant deceived them all by posting as a servant to Mazrim. This angers Jamlyn even more. They won’t sit around and wait to be attack and plan to take the fight to them. Mayor Scorpio requested to know what stance the crown takes on the undead subject. Tavalia responded that it has already been established. Skirmishes have occurred throughout the realm and various townships but no attempts have been made on Her Majesty's Cities. The Mayor went on to request time estimations on how long it would be before they are linked into the township teleport hub. Tavalia responded by saying the Royal Surveyor was contacted and the City of Action will be included soon. The Census for Action was also recorded by the Survey team. Mayor Rivi Ravenwynd of Zedland discussed with her people the undead invasions. Zedland has been attacked and is willing to give aid in the effort to defeat the undead. Zedland is ready and will answer the call to fight. Mayor Nanoc of Dragons Watch asked what time and date should a note be placed in the mailbox to contact the Livery guild. Tavalia said it is open at anytime. Lox from the Legacy Of The Fallen reminded Tavalia that a surveyor was to be sent to their town. They have constructed more buildings since then and have around five or six. They have been in contact with many builders and guilds. The township guild will be allied with the UHOH guild and the township name will be "The Citadel Of The Fallen". The township is located on the land that the former township of Fen was. Some of the older folks may remember the township. Benito petition the crown for recognition. The township name is Friar's Folly and is the size of a settlement. Tavalia asked a rune be deposited at the Hall of Commons. (Homare-Jima, Tokuno Islands.) Her Majesty wished to convey her warmest congratulations on Mayor Tancred RedStars nuptials. Meeting Adjourn
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Queen Dawn Requests Meeting
Posted on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 9:37 PM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
. Queen Dawn Requests Meeting ~ Queen Dawn has requested that the Royal Britannian Guard meet to discuss a danger to the kingdom. This will take place on Friday, July 30th, at 8 p.m. CDT. It will be at the Britain Counselor Hall. Arrive armed.
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Aino Nystad's Township Recognition
Posted on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 6:04 PM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
This just in from the Baja EM Website: Hail, citizens of Britain and beyond! Several weeks ago, while thinking of how best to honor the memory of my dear sister Lady Aino Nystad, an idea germinated. The genesis of which lies in the now famous struggle against the erstwhile King pro-temp of Britain, nefarious Casca. The struggle which was led by the various towns and kingdoms that exist amongst our realm and beyond. During the early days of the struggle, my sister was put in a precarious situation as she was honor bound to serve Casca as captain of the Royal Guard. Initially, she attempted to broker peace but this soon proved to be futile. Not before long, it became clear to her that the only path was to resign from her position and join forces under the banner of Operation Royal Flush. The rest is history. In light of this, the best way that I could think of honoring my sister was to honor the spirit of townships and kingdoms – the very spirit that Casca attempted to crush. As such, I have donated a healthy purse from the Nystad estate to set up a Aino Nystad’s Township Recognition (ANTR). The sole purpose of ANTR will be to identify and publicize townships and kingdoms. Although blessed by Queen Dawn, ANTR will be politically neutral and work with not only the realm of Britain but also those that lie outside. In the coming days, the organization will be moving into the Counselor’s Guild hall in East Britain. Once setup, the doors will be thrown open to representatives of those that wish to register themselves for recognition. Certain guidelines will be applied for approval. Once approved, a banner will be constructed on site as a herald of the recognition. It is my hope that Aino Nystad’s Township Recognition promotes the kinship that was responsible for the overthrow of the usurper Casca. Sincerely, Kullervo Nystad Guidelines for town recognition: 1) Does the municipality have a significant physical presence in the vicinity? As a rule of thumb, six houses will be considered as a significant presence. The houses should also make an effort to seem like part of the municipality by using a common theme in the house customization. 2) Has it participated in shard events with town participation? Or, made its presence felt through any other manner? Examples include not only registering your community during various community geared events we have on Baja, but also participating in things like the recent trial. If you were a witness during the trial and introduced yourself as someone hailing from the town of timbaktu, then you have effectively made your presence known to the rest of the world. 3) Is the municipality older than 30 days? Evidence should be provided regarding this. 4) Do the citizens of the municipality actively promote themselves? For example, registering a booth during the faire grounds festival to promote themselves would count as such an activity. 5) Has the municipality held community events in the past 6 months? or do they have events planned in the near future? Please note that the event should be geographically tied to the municipality itself. For example, an event to do champion spawns by itself would not count. However, if the event started by meeting at the town of timbaktu and then going to defeat the champions after a few drinks, then it would be effectively tied to that town. 6) Is the town part of an ingame town? For example, if your town is located within the walls of Luna, then you will have a very difficult time justifying your recognition.
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Test Center Update - 7/28/10
Posted on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 4:40 PM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald.com: Test Center Update - 7/28/10 James Nichols 28 Jul 2010 17:35:51 Greetings! The Following changes are now available on Test Center - have fun! Publish 67 Notes Adding SOT’s to Felucca Treasure chests Added updated properties to the Mana Phase Orb Can no longer imbue Durability onto a Brittle item Pre Existing Ilshenar Treasure Maps will now be tagged with an Artifact Rarity 0 tag Item counts have been adjusted for all treasure chests Added Reagents back to the chests Forged Pardons drop chance has been reduced Patch 4.0.8.2 (Enhanced Client) cliloc updates Patch 7.0.8.1 (Classic Client) cliloc updates
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Messages From Your Event Moderators
Posted on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 12:04 PM EDT by Merik ONN (Chesapeake)
Messages From Your Event Moderators 7282010 Messages From Your Event Moderators Chesapeake EM Forums, Stratics Wednesday, July 28, 2010 Whats Inside: -Township Recognition Guidelines and Procedures -Public Works Projects (Stables) -The Tower of Souls, Felucca -The Saga of the Poseidon's Fury Township Recognition Guidelines and Procedures In order to apply for recognition from the Crown as a township you must firstly attend a Summit Meeting at Her Majesty's Table held the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 8:30pm ET in the Summit Chambers located within the confines of Castle British. At the meeting, when it is appropriate to do so, you may petition the Crown for recognition. A census of your township will then be conducted and you will be designated according to the following rubric based on the number of structures: 1-4 Settlement 5-10 Village/Hamlet 11-20 Town 21-30 City 31-50 Kingdom At this time you may contact EM Dudley at [email protected] for a banner design packet. This will include all the information necessary in order to design your banner in the appropriate way so it can built in a timely fashion. Once your banner is constructed you may attend the next Summit meeting and petition the Summit for inclusion within the Teleportation Hub. A minimum of three sitting townships must approve the petition. Objections will be considered on basis of merit. Once your banner is constructed, and you are included in the Hub, beware! Being recognized by the Crown opens your township to possible attack by monsters who may wish to do you harm! And that's it! If you have any questions about the process or what to do, please e-mail [email protected] Public Works Projects (Stables) As indicated from the last Summit meeting with the Crown, opportunities for additions will now be available. The first available will be the addition of a Stable to approved townships. In order to qualify for the stable your township must complete a series of quests. Every township has the opportunity to do the quest and may do so when they are offered. The quests will surround your (the township) petition to the Crown for inclusion within the transit routes managed by the Livery Guild (they are responsible for managing transportation throughout the realm). This petition will need to be authorized by the Livery Guildmaster, who will only grant a "Designation of Station" after the stablemasters throughout the land give their blessing and give you a "Letter of Recommendation" to return to the Livery Guildmaster. Each stable throughout the land will have their own personal needs and each quest you complete will be different for each stablemaster based on those needs. Some of the quests include: Resource gathering/turn-ins Requests for crafted materials Animal taming/turn ins Personal favors of the stablemaster and some others that will be a surprise, of course. "How will this work, Dudley? Will each town that has completed the quest receive a just stable master or an actual physical building with a stable master?" Ok, firstly, there will be no NPCs involved with this. Do not ask for NPCs, they won't be involved. Again, let me say, there will be no NPCs involved. As far as what actually will be placed, it will likely be something simple such as a hitching post with some hay around it. Let's see who can complete the quests first, then the Royal Surveyor can get to work.Please stay toon'd for future information on when and how you can get started and if you have any questions, please post below. The Tower of Souls, Felucca The Tower of Souls building located in Felucca in the wilds north of Vesper is currently home of the dark Sorceress Mesanna. It is a public building that belongs to the entire Shard. It does not rest within a single township, nor does the Crown recognize any rights of claim to said structure, other than by the dark Sorceress Mesanna. Legend has it there is a fine spiritual concoction served by the bartender there that is known to lift the soul and instill the imbiber with vigor and vitality. The Saga of the Poseidon's Fury This is a very rough outline of the events that have transpired since late 2008... Andrea Kildare, the Royal Surveyor, receives word of the discovery of an archaeological find somewhere in the wilds of Ilshenar. Kildare contacts court mage Lord Balandar of Moonglow to assist in the excavation and identification of this find. Lord Balandar goes missing. Lord Casca, newly appointed King of Britannia dispatches Drake Foxx to find Balandar, fully expecting the Royal Guardsman, known for his fondness of the drink, to fail. Drake Foxx, assisted by the citizens of Britannia, tracks Balandar to a beach in Ilshenar and links his disappearance to Lord Casca. Lord Casca orders Alodar Salafna, a member of the King's Own private security forces to murder Drake Foxx after they've taken him captive near Chaos, Ilshenar. Citizens of Britannia rescue Drake Foxx. Lord Balandar is found and the archaeological site is identified as the remains of the HMS Poseidon's Fury, a ship constructed to use the power of the Serpent's Pillar to travel to far away realms and recover exotic and foreign items of interest. Lord Casca is uncovered as a fraud under the influence of the Shadowlords. Alodar Salafna is the only remaining member of the King's Own and meets his demise during a caravan destined to Magincia with goods from Britain. During the caravan Scarlet Von Trinsic the Brigand escapes as she is being transported to the Yew Prison. With the help of the Royal Surveyor, the Fury is excavated and a team goes inside to find the Crew has been brutally murdered at the hands of one another following the acquisition of a mysterious artifact. Inside the Fury, the only man left alive is the insane Captain, Marcus Tokinson. He is infused with a vile evil that is purged with the help of Drake Foxx and Lord Balandar and the swift actions of the citizens of the realm. The ensuing battle within the below decks of the Poseidon's Fury causes the wreck to become unstable. Her munitions hold ruptures and the entire wreck begins to collapse. As the wreck falls apart from explosion after explosion the journal of Marcus Tokinson is recovered from a busted cabinet. The Journal details the artifact that was recovered and a piece of a map that leads to where Tokinson buried it. The artifact is fabled to possess the ability to control the seas themselves. Lord Balandar, learning of this map begins his attempts at recovering all the missing pieces and eventually find the artifact before it can fall into the wrong hands. Dawn is named Queen of Britannia and Drake Foxx is promoted to Commander of the Royal Guard. Lord Balandar begins researching the mechanism behind the Posiedon Fury's crytalline drive and how the Serpent's Pillar provided power for it's deep exploration into the unknown. During that investigation a mysterious whirlpool develops near the Serpent's Pillar off the coast of Jhelom and is discovered during the Queen's Regatta. Unknown forces surround the whirlpool, a great naval battle is fought. Drake Foxx leads a group into the whirlpool to find it obstructed. Lord Balandar prepares Alchemical Devastation, a powerful incendiary salve to open up the final cavern of the underwater cave. A great sea monster is found to be guarding a treasure. The sea monster is slain and a second piece of the map leading to the artifact is recovered from an SOS set adrift by Captain Marcus Tokinson. Lord Balandar continues his research into the location of the missing map pieces. Late one night he finds himself gazing into an unfamiliar mirror within his bed chambers. Lord Balandar finds himself in a land of pure imagination, where everything is edible and there is a maze of chocolate. He is bound by the power of an orb known as the Cryosphere. Drake Foxx leads an expedition into this bizarre world to rescue Balandar. The gifts of the Cryosphere and the greed of the investigators are too great and overcome the need for Balandar's immediate aid. Lord Balandar drifts into the fade. Using the Cryosphere, a mysterious black image freezes a faded Lord Balandar into a block of ice sealing him within confines of the whirlpool. Derrick Mornwok, a wealthy resident of Vesper, owner of the Vesper Ale Brewery, recruits a group of well known treasure hunters to follow a map he purchased for a large sum. The map leads deep into the jungle's of Jhelom. Amongst the sweltering tropical climate is an oasis of pure ice. Lord Balandar is found, frozen as a block of ice. Standing atop what used to be Lord Balandar the mysterious dark image taunts his would be rescuers. Lord Balandar is recovered from the depths of the Whirlpool and returned to his estate in Moonglow. He had found a third map piece that he'd hidden within the hollowed out base of a candlestick shortly before he entered the mysterious mirror world. Lord Derrick Mornwok recruits the Royal Guard to find a missing mycologist known as Jamison Tort who owes him a large sum of money, some speculate related to a gambling debt. Drake Foxx gives the task of recovering Jamison Tort to Lt. Gwen Irina of the Royal Guard, stationed in Papua. Scarlet Von Trinsic, acting under the employ of an unknown party kidnaps Lady Tavalia Zodok, Ambassador of Her Majesty, Queen Dawn. Tavalia Zodok is held captive within a Brigand fort in the wilds of Britannia. Some Royal Guardsman defect at the opportunity to assist Scarlet Von Trinsic. Gwen Irina leads the recovery of Jamison Tort, who is being held hostage by Ophidians. During his incarceration Jamison Tort witnesses a mysterious figure who's dress matches the sandstone of the fort preforming experiments on the Ophidians using cold. There is no sign of Tavalia Zodok. An Orc offensive begins against Guardian's Gate for demolishing an outpost. The Orcs kidnap Tavalia Zodok from Scarlet Von Trinsic in a desperate act of retaliation against the Crown. Commander Drake Foxx leads a raiding party against the Orcs. Lady Zodok is rescued just moments before an orcish drilling device eviscerates her. Derrick Mornwok learns many of the personal affects of his Great Uncle's estate in Magincia are being safely held in Ocllo. He recruits the Royal Guard to recover them. Scarlet Von Trinsic leads a band of thieves to steal the priceless heirlooms against Lt. Gwen Irina. Chief Detective Sheffield is found murdered in Britain. Evidence points to the involvement of a tinker's apprentice. Undead begin plaguing the lands in surprise attacks. Lord Derrick Mornwok arranges for a delivery of Vesper Ale to various ports throughout the realm. Meanwhile, Scarlet Von Trinsic learns of this and attempts to steal the shipment. A third naval force blockades the port of Buccaneer's Den, their identities are unknown. The Unknown naval force is protecting a ferry to the islands of Tokuno. There the mysterious dark image as well as a vile Lich known only as the Servant are in the midst of an excavation. A great battle is fought on a remote Tokuno island, a map is found leading somewhere to a dungeon in Ilshenar. Gypsies are disappearing in the deserts of Northeastern Ilshenar. Drake Foxx leads a force to investigate these disappearances. Inside the Lich known as the Servant is found to have devoured most of the missing gypsies. The dungeon is a tomb of vile blood and gore. The mysterious dark image and the Servant appear to have once been working together but now find themselves at odds. The Lich escapes with a tinker's apprentice in hand. The Image vanishes. Undead and Mechanical creatures of all types are dispatched. And that is the story so far....
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All Shard’s Tavern Night 7/27/10
Posted on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 11:10 AM EDT by Merik ONN (Chesapeake)
All Shard’s Tavern Night – Tuesday, July 27, 2010 Told by Niva the Savage/Translated by a Human Worker of the Tonkawega Tribe Since Ado the Theif was not around, Niva the Savage took it upon herself to run the All Shard’s Tavern Night. Niva decided to introduce a game the adult warrior’s used to relax after a hard day of hunting and training – the Drunken Footrace or Drunk Run as Niva referred to it. The rules are simple – you have to be drunk, no beasts (mounts) allowed, you have to stick to the path. The one rule that was omitted due to the delicate nature of Human/Elfs was the poke rule. Apparently in the Savage version of the game, you are allowed to poke your spear at another Savage to trip them up or to force them off of the path. Niva lead the Human/Elfs to the starting line which was the road behind the Iron Bandit Inn and setup up the starting line using wood logs, while the runners got good and drunk. Niva went ahead and once at the end point, which was the Crafters Hall (Worker Hut) said “Niva say go!” and the race began. Niva was sorry that she was unable to watch the race, as they are very funny to watch. The winner of the race was Fanny Firebottom of BRPA who won one Savage Kin Paint and a Bauble from Arielle the Pixie. (Niva hates pixies but loves their baubles - shakes head) +------------------------------------------------------------------+ The All Shards Tavern Night runs every Tuesday at 9pm ET. The All Shards Tavern Night currently rotates between the Chesapeake shard, at the Iron Bandit Inn located in Kijustsu Anei Village and the Baja shard, at the Golden Brew Tavern located in the Town of Golden.
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Maintenance - All Shards 1:00PM EDT
Posted on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 10:24 AM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald: Maintenance - All Shards 1:00PM EDT James Nichols 28 Jul 2010 12:18:29 Greetings! At 1:00PM EDT all shards will be brought offline for maintenance as we continue to improve our database systems. We anticipate all shards to be back online before 3:00PM EDT, thank you!
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[Report] Miner Rescue Practice (Tuesday 27th)

Posted on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 2:41 AM EDT by Mapper (Europa)

As Nathan Hawkes was taking time out due to an injury he attained last week when the Royal Guard gutted out the last remaining Drow Mine Fynn Barrett requested the Royal Guard assemble this week at the usual place, The Counsellor’s Hall in Britain.

Fynn arrived on the dot but seemingly he had forgot to put the right 'face' on..

Once that issue had been sorted he began to speak with a frown.

Quote:

Fynn Barrett: "Nathan Hawke has charged me with the rescue operation (of the drow mine). You see... I looked over some reports of rescue missions in the past and the results were less than stellar..."

Iljian: "Polite way to they: 'all dead' "

Fynn Barrett: "Indeed Iljian... the success rates have been appalling.

Yelena Lockheart said the issue was mainly down to mages being unable to control their summons, Such as Energy Vortexes or Blade Spirits.

Fynn agreed and stated that these problems, along with outright murders from some members of the Royal Guard were the reason why he had gathered us; we would not be rescuing the miners today, but practising!

On asking if we had time to practice, Fynn said without practice the miners would die, However not mentioning at all if the trapped miners had enough water or supplies to wait out whilst we ‘practiced’ !

Fynn Barrett had asked the help of the Royal Guard division of Tokuno to play the part as the ‘resistance’, the baddies if you like. We would have to rescue the miners then, without killing them, free them from the baddies, it sounded all very simple…

The room split into two groups and unfortunately I had decided on being lazy and moved just a few steps to the west of the room, something I would regret later.

Fynn opened a gate to a dungeon room filled with miners.

Sadly it took four attempts from the EM respawning the miners and a harbinger before some people in my group began to understand the miners were not supposed to be killed.

A short while after, the room exploded as the corridor was opened up and the practice session began!

Sadly a little later through the battle my miner stepped into a lethal poison field and died.

At this point I ran ahead and found myself amongst the other group of people who stood on the east side of the Counsellor’s Hall. They were doing much better at keeping the miners alive by using stone walls and paralyze fields to keep the miners and baddies separated.

The battle progressed through a room of moongates and round twisty dungeon corridors.

Finally at the end of the corridor Fynn gathered everyone up, only two people had managed to keep two miners alive.

Congratulations to Pyros who rescued Rica and to Acantha who rescued Sacha!

Fynn congratulated them and then dismissed everyone for the evening.

------------------------------------------------

Hopefully someone who was on the east team can fill in what happened on their side during the time I was not there!

Thanks!

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Rumble In The Jungle! (recap)
Posted on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, 12:35 AM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings Fellow Britannians! The other evening in Felucca, the Guard was called in as spies to gather intelligence on the Blood Cult and those who would rally around them. The following report comes from Napa's favorite thief, and hopefully, our future reporter. ~~ His informant was late, his wasn’t always late, he just was never usually on time. Note to self: Kill current informant after finding a suitable replacement. Leaning against the back wall of the Cat’s Lair tavern, King Fisher impatiently waits for his informant’s message to arrive. Casually flipping a gold sovereign and catching it, flipping and catching over and over. The repetitiveness of this simple thing calmed him; on the outside he looked calm, bored even. On the inside he was a coiled spring, a taught heavy crossbow just waiting to let loose a fury of concentrated thieving. The hours of the day crawled across his skin, itching and tingling, slowly driving him mad. The time draws near, a time when the good people of trammel mingled with danger and death, dancing with the murderers, bandits and (ridiculously good-looking) thieves who call the shadowed lands of Felucca home. Tonight was a night seamlessly knitted together by the threads of fate to form a tailored loincloth which only comfortably fitted one man, and he was that one man. Cracks Knuckles In his peripheral vision he catches a stunningly attractive barmaid giving him a wink from the bar, calling him with a “Come hither” look in her eye. On his approach she offers him a frosted mug of ale and a seductive smile. “It’s always free for you Fisher!” is what he heard in his mind. “I’ll be taking that gold piece. And ill thank ye to watch where your eyes be roaming!” Is what she snapped, in reality. Muttering something about false advertising he walked to the door. Feeling under the raised bottom of the mug he pockets a parchment into his sleeve, and dumps the ale out. You can never be too careful, it’s not like I’m a well liked model citizen. Smiling to himself he darts into the nearest alley to read the message from the soon-to-be cadaverous informant. “Bloodstone cult on the hunt for Red Warrior, last seen in Buc’s Den.”- from Y.K.H “Excellent!” Few people of Britannia know the catacombs of Buc’s Den as well as the thieves who run them. He calls out to the darkness of the alley “Detective Marcus is a troll lover!” A shadow quickly emerges from the darkness and nuzzles his shoulder. “Ah, good to see you Bill, onward to Buc’s Den! Unguarded backpacks await!” Teleporting into the Buccaneers Bath house (and Day Spa), Bill and I quickly take a rose scented bath, a very manly bath indeed! Feeling fresh and rejuvenated I took to the fray which was occurring outside the front doors. (Bill remained in his bath too comfortable to move.) A knot of fierce warriors were circling and parrying. Mages were casting death and destruction, weaving spells of energy and flame and hurling them towards a most fearsome beast the diabolical hind?! As soon as I recovered from my bout of uncontrollable laughter, I wiped the tears from my eyes. Upon noticing all the corpses of fallen combatants I took to my work, opening backpacks of warriors who were too busy to realize they were being watched. Dancing around mages while cutting away purses and slashing open pouches. Noticing that the demonic hind was near to its second dose of death, I froze. Waited with abated breath for the untold treasures, jewels, and magical what-nots to fall into the backpacks of the deserving heroes. Heard beneath the thuds of maces and hack of swords the anguished filled death cry of the hind fills my ears. Just as the hind hit the dirt and to my sheer disbelief, I could feel the tip of a dagger pierce my shoulder and the burn of some cheap low quality poison begin to course through my veins. Thankfully the daggers owner was quite attached to the infectious blade and happily withdrew his property from my now throbbing shoulder. Making the injured site much easier to clean and heal, but his distraction tactic worked as planned because I lost sight of my marks open packs. Muttering a few choice words under my breath I took off to the next battle, against another woeful creature from beyond the grave. The undead.............dog! (Truly terrifying indeed!) From that moment on I was completely aware that I was a definite target of the anti-thieves in the area. I was labeled, and stereotyped before the first item was even liberated! Now I was feeling as unaccepted as a clown at a mime funeral. I slid into the shadows, like a murderer slides into a pair of fitting leather gloves. As the dog hit the dirt with a whimper, I scanned the backpacks around me with a hawk like gaze. Much to my delight a pile of gray fluff drops into one of my marks open packs. Wasting no time, I grab the fur and dash into the jungle. The previous owner completely oblivious to my deed stands there dumbfounded, but much to my displeasure his friends take up the chase. They were on my wolf heels as I darted through the underbrush looking for a safe place to hide. I quickly disappear behind a tree and embrace the shadows, and slowly begin doubling back as the hunting party stampedes past. I could see the fury in his eyes as the previous owner of my newly obtained trinket bellowed in rage. I happily trot down to the bank and tell the banker to keep his mouth shut and nobody gets a shuriken to the groin. He rolls his eyes, as if he hasn’t heard it all before. He gives me the stink eye as I throw my ill gotten goods into my bank box. Hearing the soft crunch of the dirt behind me I turn “ah a skilled tracker eh? Too bad your cheap boots give you away!” I mock the invisible man openly. The smell of nightshade fills the air as the invisible tracker draws his poisoned blade. With the speed of an agile mongoose I slam a smoke bomb into the ground, shadow jump well over the height of anyone’s head and run out the door. I make it back to the bath house just as an odd looking man dressed in a jet black death robe appears. “Have you seen him?! It must be found!” the mysterious stranger calls out. Apparently this mysterious man was looking for the Red Warrior that picked up some super powered red marble in Ilshenar. The Red Warrior, apparently now mad with necromantic power stole some moldy old books from the Blood Stone Cult. (Me being a Thief myself I support stealing by any race, and if this Red Warrior wants some moldy books over treasure and gems, great! More for me!) “Keep an eye out for the Red Warrior we must find him before the guard does!” He yells into the crowd. Laughing to myself I head into the bath house and wrestle Bill from the masseuse. I silently head back through the moongate towards home. This Bloodstone Cult created a monster it can no longer control and now it falls to the rest of us to keep a watchful eye out?! Not this dashing rogue, no sir, not without some kind of compensation of course! (Arriving home he removes the series of traps and locks on the warehouse door. King Fisher calmly steps inside and quickly re-arms the door. Walking past his collection of treasure and antiquities into his personal study; he sits in his padded chair pondering what else could this Bloodstone Cult be hiding? “I seem to have another mission for my expendable informant!” he proclaims while chuckling quietly to himself.) King Fisher ~~ And what else spawned that night? And the prize drop... nine total...
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Duels in Jhelom!
Posted on Tuesday, July 27, 2010, 7:37 PM EDT by Morpheus Mardox (Chesapeake)
Duelin at the Farms! On a quiet night in Sosaria last eve, I was minding my own when across the usual banter that is global chat I heard a promising story brewing! The toils and challenges between the players of the Fel facet were about to breed a contest! The guilds of UHOH and DT were exchanging pleasantries and the call for a 5vs 5 came about. I quickly gather my pen and quill and made way for the fel city of Jhelom and its well known farms. The general spot for deciding such challenges. Upon my arrival what looked to be the entire UHOH force lay in wait to see if the DT would cower or fight. Much to my delight the brave warriors of DT did indeed show thier presence as a five man team was soon formed. After the long deliberation of rules, templates, and the lineup itself, the call was "ready to go" as action was soon underway. The call to begin soon rang as the fighting was fast and furious. So fast in fact that I could not get a snapshot of the death that would soon unfold before me. Within what seemed moments, the entire DT force lay dead along the grassy knowl. Battered and beaten without a single kill the D*T stood speechless as for this round belonged to UHOH. Will there be more? Will anyone defeat the UHOH mystmage posse? Stay Tuned!
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EverQuest II is Going Free-to-Play
Posted on Tuesday, July 27, 2010, 6:08 PM EDT by Watchertoo (NetworkNews)
This just in from Stratics Central: EverQuest II is Going Free-to-Play TGN Stratics got a first-hand interview today with Dave Georgeson, the EverQuest II senior producer. You can find everything you need to know about EQ2 free-to-play directly from the source HERE.
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[EM Event] The mysterious disappearance of Lady Rose. (Final)
Posted on Tuesday, July 27, 2010, 7:11 AM EDT by Frarc (Drachenfels)
The mysterious disappearance of Lady Rose The Final. Ones again the citizens of Britania where asked to help with the search of the missing Lady Rose. Nachtalb found some new traces for Balthazar and handed him out a map with places where Lady Rose was seen. Balthazar want to solve disappearance because he gave his word to Lady Roses family to find her.We meet Balthazar again at the counselors hall in Britain. This time we would find the Lady.We already gone trough a lot to find a trace of her. And we where sure another difficult road was awaiting us. But we where sure to find Lady Rose today. Balthazar opened up gates to all kinda locations. At each location groups of monsters where waiting us to stop us in our search. One monster even more deadly then the other.The battles where hard and fierce. I could describe them but sometimes a picture says more then a thousand words. But our hero's did not give up. They where determined to find Lady Rose. I'm a old man and my bones are not in good shape as they use to be. I had to leave to rest. I knew all the people with Balthazar would keep going till they found Lady Rose. When i woke up this morning i went to find the latest news on Lady Rose. I found my friend Garm who also was at the search. They had indeed found Lady Rose. The news was not that pleasant as i had hoped for. They found Lady Rose remains somewhere inside the hedge maze. We where too late! Garm showed me the final resting place of the Lady. We all tried our best to find her. A statue of the Lady is placed at the house inside the hedge maze. Maybe we should all go to this statue and pray and touch the statue. And have a moment of silence for all the good people, friends and family we have lost in our life's. Take home one of these small statue and give it a special place. And now and then we have a look at this statue and remember all those wonderful people we have lost. Remember all the good times we had with them. Sometimes.....Life is too short.... Just like for Lady Rose. New Frarc, Drachenfels News reporter.
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Test Center Update - 7/26/10
Posted on Monday, July 26, 2010, 11:29 PM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald.com: Test Center Update - 7/26/10 James Nichols 26 Jul 2010 18:33:00 Greetings! The following changes are now available on TC1 - have fun. Publish 67 Notes Upkeep cost for Tribulation is lowered from 16 to 11 Upkeep cost for Despair is lowered from 18 to 13 Tribulation will no longer interrupt despair and visa versa Both can be run concurrently at double the upkeep cost Fixes were made for Treasure Map Spawn Locations Guardians are no longer tameable Tokuno Mobs will no longer drop invalid loot
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July Best Shot in the Realm, Sat 7/31 8:30PST
Posted on Monday, July 26, 2010, 1:28 PM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
announcing... July's Best Shot in the Realm Competition to be held Saturday, July 31st at 8:30 pm (pst) Shard Time (11:30 pm est, 10:30 pm cst) at the Skara Brae Fairegrounds. See you there, Archers!
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[EM Event] Meeting & Royal Guard Training with Fynn Barrett (Tuesday 27th)
Posted on Monday, July 26, 2010, 10:56 AM EDT by Mapper (Europa)
WHEN? Tuesday the 23rd of July at 8pm UK Time, 9pm Central European Time WHERE? Counsellor's Hall in Britain, Trammel Meeting & Royal Guard Training with Fynn Barrett. Gather at the Counselors Hall in Britain. Location : Counselors Hall in Britain EM Event from the EM Website.
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community Hunts - Week of July 26th
Posted on Monday, July 26, 2010, 3:52 AM EDT by Lady Tia (LakeSuperior)
Want to go hunting but don't have a big enough group? Are you looking for good guides to dungeons you've yet to explore? The community hunts are open to everyone! Come show your support for the Lake Superior community and take a walk on the wild side at the same time. Meet some new and old friends and have a bit of a challenge along the way. Moonglow Zoo Taming Competition Date: Tuesday, July 27th Time: 8:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Host: Taeara Mi'Aken Community Peerless Hunt Date: Wednesday, July 28th Time: 8:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Host: Taeara Mi'Aken Wisp Dungeon crawl Date: Thursday, July 29th Time: 8:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Host: Taeara Mi'Aken Community Champ Spawn Hunt Date: Friday, July 30th Time: 9:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Hosts: Taeara Mi'aken And remember, these hunts are for everyone, regardless of their skill level or guild affiliation. Come meet new friends, see new places, gain experience and just have fun. Sabina Nikolai, High Marshall, Community Hunt Organizer The Order of the Silver Rose Posted by: Lady Tia LS News Manager
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Community Meet Up - July 26th
Posted on Monday, July 26, 2010, 3:49 AM EDT by Lady Tia (LakeSuperior)
Community Meet Up – July 26th Date: Every Monday Night Time: 7:30PM CST Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Meeting Agenda: We'll hear weekly announcements of upcoming events and hunts for Lake Superior from Sabina our events coordinator. The weekly community meetings, events, hunts, etc are always open to the public. No invitations needed! Everyone is always welcome to come ask questions, make plans, or make announcements. Bring a friend if you can make it, tell a friend if you can't!
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G-V Monthly Event was a Blast
Posted on Sunday, July 25, 2010, 8:23 PM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
G-V Monthly Event was a Blast ~ The Great Lakes Shard event held by Guardians of Valhalla this month was at Twaulo of the Glade Centaur champ (next to swoop). The Glorious Lady Kathrine was at hand to ress and make sure things went smoothly. Exiting the moongate there was a display of maps then books showing the way to the event. Just outside of the spawn was another well thought out display, aids and a resser. The G-V Guild was once a mighty force on Great Lakes. Though its numbers have diminished over the years it is large in spirit and community participation. They had a very nice display at the recent Gathering of the Guilds housed in the Yew Abbey. It is great that G-V has monthly player run events and you can find out about them by checking the Great Lakes boards. They always make a post of upcoming events. Aside from G-V at this event the -Y- Guild attended in large numbers and others tags seen were GOD, LOFT and XV. As with any good event death happened. Cinque Katsumoto, Sadden Paradise, FoFoCuddlyPoops, Dollmaster, Darkness, Annabel Lee and Justice were a few corpses I had to step over. Below are some screenshots from this fun event. Witchy-Woman Rani SpecialChild Thank you G-V for all you do for Great Lakes !
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Baja Taming Hour Recap (July 18th, 2010)
Posted on Sunday, July 25, 2010, 2:42 PM EDT by WarderDragon (Baja)
Taming Hour Hosted by the Baja Roleplayers Alliance By Proserpina of the Chaos Kittens [C K] Starting Number: 11,213,480 End Number: 11,344,860 Total Points Earned: 131,380 Random Prize Number: 11,319,876 Prize Winner: James (MT) Prize: Changeling Statue Tamers: Kat MacBroeden (DWN) SheHitMeFirst (UTB) Son of OG (UTB) James (MT) Lil' Debi (M!S) It was another balmy Sosarian night as taming hour began, yet our dedicated tamers braved the heat (and particularly irate drakes) to dedicate their time and donate animals to the zoo fund. Though our numbers were small, they managed to earn a whopping 131,380 points! Congrats tamers, and as always, thank you for your time and generosity.
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Examining “The Game Net” with George Vanous
Posted on Sunday, July 25, 2010, 2:38 PM EDT by Andrasta (NetworkNews)
Recently very early one morning last week I had the pleasure of interviewing George Vanous.... Please make yourselves comfortable......for the next few minutes we will visit with George Vanous, President and CEO of THEGAMENET. George has recently become the new steward of our Community Fansite, “The Stratics Network”. "Welcome George. Thank you for taking some time to answer a few questions for us." "Much can be understood by the fantasy lives that we create. Many of us invest a great deal of time to project ourselves as we wish to be seen here. In some worlds the look of our avatars, the towns, alliances and guilds we create and the deeds that we are judged by give clues to the anonymous person behind the keyboard. " From the Halls of Befallen to the Lair of Nagafen, We have fought in many battles that most have never seen! First to fight for Right and Justice and to our Hearts be True! We are Proud to claim the title of Mighty Phoenix Dragoons! Siuan Saidar To find out who this might be please listen to the complete interview here: George Vanous Interview on YouTube In hindsight I would schedule such a conversation a bit later in the morning and make sure I'd had at least one large cup of coffee before proceeding. It is my very first audio youtube interview. I hope you enjoy getting to know George a little better. Andrasta TGN Stratics
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UOGuide Classic Custom House Design Contest Update
Posted on Sunday, July 25, 2010, 1:41 PM EDT by Watchertoo (CommunityNews)
This just in from our friends at UOGuide: UOGuide Classic Custom House Design Contest All the entries in the UOGuide Classic Custom House Design Contest have been posted. They can be found at: www.uoguide.com/UOGuide:Classic_Custom_House_Contest_Submissions We are glad so many people entered. Everyone has a chance to vote on their favorite submissions. Details on that are in the link above. The winners will be announced in the upcoming July Newsletter. The next house design contest will be much less restrictive in the theme. If you have any ideas for house design or any other contest please send them in via the contact form on UOGuide.
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Search for the Undead
Posted on Sunday, July 25, 2010, 1:27 PM EDT by Morpheus Mardox (Chesapeake)
The Expedition to Deceit And a brief stop at the Tower of Soulls By: Ashlarr Earlier in the week, the Lord of Aryslan, Jamlyn Hakkendyn sent out a call to arms to all those brave men and women who would dare defy the undead that have raided several townships across Sosaria that include Guardian's Gate, Dragon's Watch, Paxlair, Zedland and Aryslan itself. And yesterday evening, the call was finally answered by a band of brave warriors ready turn the evil blade of Mazrim. After everyone had rallied amongst the ruins of old Aryslan, Lord Jamlyn briefed the expeditionary force on what lay ahead. An aggressive patrol into the vile Tower of Souls to see what clues could be uncovered as to the origin of the attacks, followed by a raid against the undead forces at Deceit. What follows is a brief summary of events brought to you firsthand. The expedition to the Tower of Souls met with little resistance, the dark stone tower Silent amongst the twisted trees of North Felucca. At the top of the tower, a few undead servitors manned a ramshackle bar in an eerie twisted mockery of the living. Unfortunately, these risen were surrounded by a protective shield that prevented all harm, but seemed to deter them from any aggression as well. Finding nothing of note in the tower, the group moved on to Deceit. Moving quickly through the dark walls, the group moved quickly, striking at the heart of the dungeon in an attempt to summon its dark master. Though the attack was effective, it was not without casualties with several members of the party falling, but spell and skill prevented them from joining the ranks of the enemy. Eventually, the vile Necromancer Neira entered the fray herself but was overwhelmed by the group's relentless assault. Assailed from all sides, she was unable to mount an effective defence, and in the dark corridors of Deceit, the mobility of her undead steed was of little use. Soon even she had fallen and our expeditionary force stood victorious. Unfortunately, her corpse provided little in the way of clues and nothing to suggest she was in league with Mazrim or that she had anything to do with the attacks. Her scroll satchel contained papers on the topics of spellweaving, fighting with a blunt object and the like. Her spellbook detailed vicious necromancy magics, but nothing out of the ordinary. And the only other objects of note were a few coins, a strange red skull and a small bottle of ale which the Monk Benito quickly siezed. And so, the party returned to the ruins of Old Aryslan, victorious in battle, but having made no progress in unravelling the mystery of the attacks on our townships.
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Royal Guard Summoned To Castle British!
Posted on Sunday, July 25, 2010, 12:24 PM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings Fellow Britannians! From the desk of Tempest comes the following message: The Royal guard is summoned to Castle British on Sunday, July 25 at 7pm PST. Ranger Crow requests assistance in an investigation, and it may be dangerous. Please come prepared. Tempest The Letter Ranger Crow sat down at the old desk in the room she rented at the Sweet Dreams Inn in Britain and began composing an incident report to Queen Dawn on the gypsy assault a few days ago. The process stopped abruptly when someone knocked at the door , and Delilah opened it to find one of the castle guards. “Ranger,” he started, “This came to the Queen earlier.” He handed her a letter in an already opened envelope. “She said you would be best to deal with it.” “Thank you,” she replied. The guard turned to leave, “Wait. Do you know where this came from?” “Queen Dawn put a note in there with it,” the guard stated, “I don’t know anything about it.” Delilah watched the guard leave and went back inside to her desk. She extracted the contents carefully, finding two notes. The first was very short, and written in the familiar penmanship of the Queen: “This came to me from monks at Empath Abbey. Please help them.” -Queen Dawn The other letter was short also, but written in the elegant script of a well-trained monk. “Your Majesty, Something has happened near the Abbey. One of our monks discovered a gruesome scene while wandering in the forests, and we are not able to deal with such matters ourselves. May we request you send some guards to look into this?” - Ernest, Monk of Empath Abbey The coordinates of the place in question were scrawled at the bottom of the note and barely legible. Delilah copied them down on a fresh sheet of parchment before leaving the room to find the nearest crier. It was time to summon the Royal Guard once again.
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Sanctus
Posted on Saturday, July 24, 2010, 5:52 PM EDT by Cherry Delite (Atlantic)
Sanctus I, Cherry Delite, conducted an interview with King Talon Skyfire of Sanctus. Sanctus is descended from the old realm of Stormhaven, an ancient citadel near Britain. A difference of opinion with the Queen of Stormhaven drove several of the members to band together and move to the lands between Umbra and Luna. Sanctus is the last of the true light-bringers, paladins. They adhere to Order and Virtue in an age when both are rare. All members of Sanctus follow the Virtues no matter their profession. Members of Sanctus are generally human, elfin, fairy folk. The king himself is descended from dragon-kin. Sanctus is an ally to Stonegate. “Our views may differ but they are honorable.” The Skyfire family is an old house. They have fought the Ebon Skull since time immemorial, the Ebon Skull of Umbra, who seek the convergence, the extinction of all life. The kingdom of Sanctus is lead by King Talon, who lost a wife and daughter to the vile undead. “We stand as the last barrier to protect Luna, the City of Light and will do so until the end of time. We are two sides of the same coin.” Necromancy is forbidden within the realm of Sanctus. And visitors are asked to remove covering face masks. The Sanctus motto: Veneratio, Ferocitas, Imperium, Honor, Valor, Empire.
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Kazoka's Treetop Tavern Has Fallen ~ Gathering of the Guilds Going Strong
Posted on Saturday, July 24, 2010, 1:34 PM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
. .. ... .. . Recently we lost a physical part of Great Lakes history. For those readers that have been around as long as the very old Lady Lava they remember Kazola’s Treetop Tavern fondly and full of memories. It was the place to meet and be seen. This grand old lady stood in Felucca just southeast of the Yew moongate. Not only was ale and gossip exchanged at this location contests were held there, love was lost and found within it walls and stately front garden to mention a few. Kazola's in the active days All that remains of Kazola's Treetop Tavern Sad as it is that we have lost a piece of history other player run events are still going strong like the MOA Auction House, CFC, FCB Net Tosses and the yearly Gathering of the Guilds. Mystra has always been heavily involved in making the Gathering of the Guilds take place each year. This weekend the GoG was housed once again in the Yew Abbey and it had a great turnout with some of the best Great Lakes Guilds participating. Many of us are so busy hunting and crafting this is a perfect time to get to meet new friends and reconnect with old friends. Guild popularity, numbers and styles change often on Great Lakes so GoG lets one ask in detail how each guild runs and what their goals are if indeed they have one. FCB greeted people as they arrived at the Abbey, treating them with treasures from the sea. -Y- Guild, RKV / Township of Newcastle and Roma Shops were also on ground level. The upper floors housed the CFC, NWJ, MOA and G-V Guilds. Though many guilds did not set up areas many tags could be seen all over the Abbey. Hannah of SKS and Lady Lexi of DSD were a few that I chatted with. Our wonderful EMs were handing out pies and Malachi was reading fortunes. He was GREAT at it and the line was long during the entire event. Below are some screenshots from this yearly event. * Mystra working the crowd as only she can do * * Our EMs arrive * * The Fab Fifi of FCB * Rachel of CFC chatting with Lady Lava as Hannah informs her about fortune telling * * Malachi reading my fortune * * G-V Guild * * -Y- Guilds blue set up * Thank you all that participated and making Great Lakes history once again.
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Napa's Maze Of Death Is Open To The Public!
Posted on Saturday, July 24, 2010, 12:44 AM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings fellow Britannians! In case you missed the Super Secret Surprise meeting at the Counselor's Hall the other evening, allow me to fill you in. Our esteemed EM's have delivered a truly exciting gift to Napa! And it's permanent! Our very own Death Maze! A four level maze with a surprise kick at the end! The Rules: No Casting Teleport No Gating No Recalling in The Object: Find the hidden teleporters to each level but be careful, there is also a hidden teleporter that will take you back to the beginning, forcing you to run the gauntlet again! Sounds easy enough, right? We certainly found out! The hardest part, is surviving the spawn, and accidentally falling through the teleporter. I promise you, no one did it on purpose. Not the first couple of times. Maybe not even the third time of tripping the wrong portal and having to restart. What was so difficult? Well. You can't see the teleporter. It's hidden. So if you hit it, you are in the next area mid-stride, and playing catch up with the next band of attacking creatures! It was a BLAST! Everyone running around like mad, looked a lot like chickens before Sunday brunch! And to give you an idea of what we currently face (the EM's said they would be periodically changing the spawn!)? In the first level, a Succubus is there strolling along to greet you. Watch out, as you may not be able to cast teleport, but she can. I saw her earlier today plotting with the mob in the final area. At the second level, you get pack hunted by Poison Elementals. If you were lucky, they had not already been casting on you over the walls!(Which you can do as well.) When you reach the third, you face large, angry spiders, Dread to be exact. Stay clear of the edges on this one, or you'll find yourself getting hit by them, and the darned Poison Elementals! And the last square to get to, the ominous fourth. What we thought would be the end? Well, to be honest, for a lot of us, it was. That Hydra hits like a train! One hit kills. Nasty disposition and most eager to chase you around that swirl of hedges! Thanks Fisher! Then pop, under the ground we go and it's into a swarm of Paragons of the Rune Beetle and Dragon variety. Oh... and for that first run, Mesanna's nightmarish mount, a wicked looking Skeletal Steed! (Later when I went through, Mesanna had been kind enough to leave Medusa lying in wait!) I was told by the EM's that she would not be a normal contender. Fighting through all that, and much more, we arrived at the end of the line where a statue awaited the opening night runners! And what did we get for our hazardous trek through Napa's Maze of Death? Our skulls, colored and labeled! Fitting I should say... And to our EMs? Thanks for all the work you two put into this! It was outstanding! Best Gaming Wishes, Salya Sin
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Enhanced Client Update - Patch 4.0.8.1
Posted on Friday, July 23, 2010, 4:06 PM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald: Enhanced Client Update - Patch 4.0.8.1 James Nichols 23 Jul 2010 17:25:49 Greetings! We've made the following change to resolve an issue with the Enhanced Client, have a great weekend! Patch 4.0.8.1 (Enhanced Client) Bug Fix Fixed the issue with the Enhanced Client’s window positions snapping back when you change your options.
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Artifacts and Altering
Posted on Friday, July 23, 2010, 12:05 PM EDT by Petra Fyde (CommunityNews)
Ultima Online Stratics Weekly Announcement: This week's offerings for your approval include: A new page Altering Items. We hope you will find it useful Re-written and updated The Necromancer skill essay Thanks to a prodigious contribution from Beastmaster, a substantial number of Hunter's Guide entries now have fame/karma figures. Thank you very much, Beastmaster A new section of the item catalogue, Virtue Artifacts, somewhat over due Also updated this week Luck With the help of several Stratics forums posters and The Party System has been updated Last, but not least, we hope you will approve of this week's choice of 'pic of the week'. To contribute information please email to: [email protected], [email protected] or you can just send a pm to Petra Fyde. Thank you.
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Shadowy Figure Seeking Additional Volunteers
Posted on Friday, July 23, 2010, 10:52 AM EDT by Fallon Valor (Atlantic)
The Shadowy Figure of Minoc is seeking volunteers to help with yet another task, says EM Nestor. The event will begin at the Shadowy Figure’s cave north of Minoc in the Felucca facet. Participants are asked to arrive no later than 9:00 PM EST tonight.
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[EM NEWS] Farewell Caryn, You Left Us Too Soon
Posted on Friday, July 23, 2010, 8:30 AM EDT by falseprophet (Origin)
Once again, Taryn called upon us for aid, and once again, Origin showed up en masse. Taryn said that she had learned of the location of the third and final piece, gated us into the mines. We were met by a wall, but this time there were Barrels of some mysterious powder labeled “high explosives” with fuses jutting out of them. Taryn lit the fuses, and we all ran for cover. Once the wall was down, we were confronted by a Gang of Air Elementals, and the fight was on. After dispatching the Elementals, Taryn recovered the third piece of the artifact, and we were quickly joined by the evilness of Barbossa! Captain Barbossa: Well, well, well, right on time. Captain Barbossa: So glad to see you again my dear, and I'm sure your sister is happy as well. glares at Caryn Now... stares icily give me the items I seek and we'll finish our business here. Taryn Sullivan: You monster! Let my sister go! Caryn: struggles Captain Barbossa: struggles Caryn: struggles Caryn: breaks Barbossa's hold on her Caryn: grabs the pieces from Taryn and plunges them into the heart of the pedestal Taryn Sullivan: Caryn!!!! NOOOOOOOO, what have you done! Caryn: I'm sorry! It's the only way to finish this! Taryn Sullivan: Run Caryn!!!! Captain Barbossa: screams wildly Stop!! Captain Barbossa: glares NOOOOoooo you fool!!! Do you know what you have done?? Caryn: watches as the artifact shakes Taryn Sullivan: no Caryn! No!!! tries to pull Caryn away Captain Barbossa: Foolish child! You haven't seen the last of me!!!! As the last tremor emanated from the Artifact, the mine was covered with creatures so foul, the very air around them was poisonous. The creatures seemed impervious to attack, but as we have done before in the face of adversity, we came together and fought as bravely as possible. The Breaths of Aeolus were fierce, but under the concerted efforts of everyone we finally defeated them. After the battle we rushed back to Caryn and the artifact. Taryn Sullivan: runs for the pedestal NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO cries in anguish Caryn! No please, please, don't leave me now! Caryn: lays a hand on Taryn's shoulder Sister, don't weep for me, we both knew the Enchantment had to be destroyed. This was...this way the only way Taryn Sullivan: but the price is too high Caryn: If I had not done what I had Barbossa would have taken the Enchantment, and everyone would have suffered in the long run. Or you would have been forced to destroy it yourself, knowing that Barbossa would not let me live anyway Caryn: smiles softly and wipes the tears from Taryn's face I could not place that burden on your heart our mother told me what had to be done Taryn. I've seen them, our parents you should know how proud they are of you and how very proud I am to have a sister such as you. Even though you won't see us, know that we'll be watching over you always. We'll always be in your heart and when you feel the gentle spring breezes touch your cheek know that we are with you smiles you will see us again, don't mourn sister rejoice in the time we had and know that I love you I'll be with you always...remember me and smile. Taryn Sullivan: smiles through her tears Caryn: I've left you something so you'll always remember me and how much I loved you go now; go back to our family's circle. I love you Taryn. Taryn Sullivan: I will always remember, and I'll try to be thankful for whatever short time we had. Caryn: touches her sister for the last time and fades away Donal: gently touches Taryn's shoulder and says softly go my dear... see what your sister left for you. Taryn Sullivan: turns devastated eyes to Donal Donal, I can't just leave her here… Donal: Be at mind's ease Taryn. I'll take care of her, I promise I'll be waiting for you at home bends to gently lift Caryn's body Taryn Sullivan: looks at the gathered crowd beseechingly Will you come with me? Taryn Sullivan: the ancient circle of my weeps family runs her hand down the pedestal and removes a memory yes, I'll remember turns to everyone I hope you'll touch the pedestal and remember as well... touch it twice and never forget my sister and what she sacrificed for all of us I'm going now to mourn, thank you for your efforts on our behalf but I've lost something precious to me wipes a tear and slowly walks for home Farewell Caryn, you will be missed
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Gathering of the Guilds this Saturday !
Posted on Friday, July 23, 2010, 7:40 AM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
Greetings everyone, Just to confirm we are going ahead with the GOG This Saturday 3 Eastern 2 Central , This is anticipated to run 2 to 3 hours . I have confirmations either by posts here or icq of the following participating guilds..... Ym Yew Militia FCB Fishermans Council MOA Majestic Oaks Auctions CFC Chicken Fights Club G-V Guardians of Valhalla -Y- Cuzz thats how we role RKR Royal Knights of Virtue Cult of Azure Dragons Nakamura Empire/Yamamato Clan If I have missed anyone or if you dont see your guild here and are interested in participating then pm or icq me before Friday . If you are on the list and cannot make it please let me know also so we dont reserve space for you . The place will be the Yew Abbey as always . Each guild will get an area to represent from and table. We will supply support staff and gates . To all who would attend... This event has become a GL tradition and it always lots of fun. Come chat with the guilds and their leaders, choose a new guild or just learn more about them . Most active players will be around so even come by and be part of the GL community event. There will be giveaways Prizes and of Course Fresh Cooked FCB Fishcakes and ALE!! How can you ask for more then that ? Mystra FCB
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The Bloodstone Cult Has A Problem. (fel event)
Posted on Thursday, July 22, 2010, 7:02 PM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings Fellow Britannians! From the desk of Sangria comes the following: “Sir!! Sir!!” There was something in the boy’s voice that stopped the leader of the Bloodstone cult in his tracks. “Sir! The red ethereal warrior!! The ancient books!! Gone!!” The Bloodstone cult leader turned toward the boy and said “send the Shadow to me.” *A note is found at Luna and Yew Fel gates, “Foes of the Crown! Your help is needed in Fel. Meet me here Fri (7/23) 6pst for instructions.”* OOC: This event will be in Fel and if there are items (not saying there will be) they will be stealable. Oh! and if there are items (again not saying there will be), please do not stack them. glares at a certain thief
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Action Town Banner Constructed
Posted on Thursday, July 22, 2010, 6:01 PM EDT by Merik ONN (Chesapeake)
Action Town Banner Constructed Action City, Malas July 22, 2010 The City of Action received a wonderfully designed township banner today in the northern part of their city. The city is located East of Luna and currently has 21 building constructed. Leading the township is Mayor Scorpio and Deputy Mayor Lethes and populated by the members of the Action guild. Most townships may recognize the guild abbreviation from Celestial Knight who currently holds the position of Captain within the Royal Guards Unit. The Mayor of Action took some time out of his busy schedule to give us more information on their town and guild. The town was founded about six months ago, by Scorpio and Tolerance. It was formed, as a base of operations for the guild of Action, and quickly grew into one of the largest player run cities on the shard. Action is most known for being honorable when others aren't. We strive to do the right thing at all times. We mainly PVM and RP but we do have the Action Task Force that is our protection in Fel. Some of our historic locations are the Historic Auction House, and Legendary Crafter. We have a democracy set up, with a working judicial system, town guards, and sheriff's department. We are working on more role playing events to involve our guild and the shard. We have big things, coming up with the Auction, Lotto House, and the Chaos Temple. Currently our township is allied with Crown and holds good relations with the Colt township and guild. Our guild is also allied with a guild known as Gank Squad.
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Test Center 1 - Publish 67 Available Today!
Posted on Thursday, July 22, 2010, 5:25 PM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald.com: Test Center 1 - Publish 67 Available Today! James Nichols 22 Jul 2010 15:34:44 EST Greetings! Publish 67 is available today on Test Center 1, please take a moment to read about the changes and features below and check them out in game. Your feedback is important to us and we look forward to hearing from you - have fun! Publish 67 Notes Treasure Maps We have put HUNTING back into Treasure maps! Treasure Map locations are now have randomized locations. All maps that have been decoded before publish will be valid for only 30 days, after that period you will have to decode them again. We have added maps for all facets, redone the loot for the treasure chests, and added Guardian Mobs. Treasure Chests and Loot 5000 gold per level of treasure chest (level 1-6) Removed random scrolls and reagents Added some Imbuing Ingredients (On level 2+ maps) Added a small chance for high property count items There is a small chance to destroy items if lockpicking fails Chance for Alacrity Scrolls Chance for Decoration Vines (that players can not grow) Chance for Tasty Treats for your pets Chance for Recipes Chance the chest will contain a Treasure chest map one level higher Chance for a Skeleton Key (+ lockpicking skill) Chance for Treasure Map Specific Artifacts (level 5+) New Item Descriptions New Property : Brittle. These items cannot be fortified. Skeleton Key: Bonus to lockpicking skill for the next lockpick attempt. (Limited Charges) Mana Phasing Orb (Talisman): Your next 2 mana checks are free, until you do damage or attempt to use mana. (Whichever comes first) (Limited Charges, Brittle) On use. Surge Shield: Increases one of your regeneration stats by 10 for 20 seconds. (Limited Charges, Brittle, Enhanceable, Imbuable) On Use Runed Sash of Warding: Decreases incoming damage from spells OR weapons, by 10 % for 10 seconds. (Limited Charges, Brittle) On Use Forged Pardon: Reduces the users murder counts by 1. (Single Use) Lockpicking Changes Lockpicking has been slightly reworked. Success chances at high skill level have been improved, as well as allowing some small success chance for lower skill levels. Bard Changes Bard spell songs are no longer interrupted by spellcasting. Bards with either provocation or peacemaking mastery can have both their mastery spell songs active at the same time. Bards with secondary bard skills above GM (Real Skill) will receive a slightly reduced mana cost for spell song upkeep. Bards with a mastery get a 5% bonus to their success chance at using any bard skills, and a 10% bonus to using the skill of their mastery focus. All bard songs receive a slight bonus to their effects if the bard has additional bard skills over GM(Real Skill). Discordance spell songs are now affected by the target's magic resistance. (PvP and specific Mobs only) Despair Damage Tweaked: 1.5x vs Non Player, 3x Damage with Slayer Instruments Tribulation: Damage bonus modified by 1.5 with Instruments Bard Skill Timeout reduced to 8 Seconds. Having a bard mastery reduces all Bard Skill Timeouts by 1 second, and an additional second for the Skill of the mastery focus. Bug Fixes Resilience will now add poison resistance/immunity correctly Issue fixed with being able to polymorph while wearing the majik flippers Statue of Finnigan’s name should return to original state. Blinking Green Nose Reindeer were fixed in SA client The Endless Decanter of Water will now auto-refill when cooking. Only Owners and Co Owners can set the music order of Dawns’s Music box Pink Champagne and Egg Nog bottles should show the correct names Pitchers of Mile and Liquor can be used to refill pots of eggnog Invisibility potions can now be stored and removed properly from potion kegs Players should be able to leave a party without issues now Players should no longer lose gold when selling above 65,536, the bank check will be placed in your bank for the full amount Players can no longer have an unlimited amount of Spell Stones in their packs Healing stones can no longer be transferred via bag of sending to the bank The Community Collection Treasure Hunter and Thief NPC’s gumps should open properly when you have an item in your inventory that can be turned in The Bardiche and Battle Axe are no longer invisible when equipped and standing in war mode on both male and female gargoyles in the legacy client only The Evidence quest given by Sarakki can not be completed and you should be able to receive your reward Targetted pet windows will disappear as soon as the pet is mounted You will now get a “Your Spell Song has been Interrupted” system message associated with interrupting the Invigorate bard mastery ability The strength of the Bane Dragon’s poison attack varies depending upon range In the adjacent tile, the poison can be level 4 or 5 With 1 or 2 tiles separation, poison can be 3 or 4 With 3 or 4 tiles separation, poison can be 2 or 3 Fixed an issue with the Silver Sapling Resurrection gump, it should no longer appear outside of the Abyss The rockfall in Navery’s lair should be working properly Stygian Abyss mobiles will no longer drop Peerless encounter keys Enchanted Apples can no longer be exceptional or have a maker’s mark; existing exceptional or marked apples will lose this status Fixed issues with removing Exploding Tar Potions and Silver Sapling Seeds from stacks Players can no longer place items inside of Inspected Potion Kegs (quest items) Fixed an issue with the identification of Parasitic Poison potions stored in kegs When a creature is tamed, it will no longer block the respawn of another creature of the same type Fixed issues with re-stacking of items that have been removed from mailboxes and were still showing their sender information Patch 4.0.8 (Enhanced Client) New User Settings Options Use English Item Names (Default: Off) - Always displays item names in English, regardless of selected language. Ignore Mouse Actions on Self (Default: Off) - All mouse actions, such as mouse overs and clicking will be disabled for your character in the world. You will still be able to interact with yourself through user interface elements such as the portrait or health bar. Show Corpse Names (Default: Off) - Names will automatically appear over corpses when they appear in the world. Enable Hardware Death Effect (Default: On) - Enables the hardware accelerated death effect when dead. Turning this off may resolve graphical issues on certain hardware configurations. Additional Changes Buttons on the party health bars will now cast Chivalry equivalent spells if Chivalry skill is higher than Magery. Added mouseover tooltips to the spell buttons on the party health bars. Added a "Dismount" macro action under the "Items/Abilities" category of the Actions window. Updated double-click action for the portrait to a "use" action instead of always opening the paperdoll. Mobs will now highlight properly when mousing over their overhead names. Added more icons to select from in the Macro Editor. The camera zoom settings now save up to four decimal places instead of two. Bug Fixes The backpack closed and items placed onto the hotbars greyed out when mounting an ethereal mount from the hotbar. The viewport was getting stuck on the upper left-hand corner when being resized occasionally. The graphics of items in grid-view of a container were sometimes disappearing or becoming distorted. The party window functionality (targeting and context menus) were lost if a member left the party. The skill percentage of Anatomy showed the skill percentage of Animal Lore when placed onto the hotbar. The tooltip was getting stuck on the screen when mousing over certain user interface elements. The Skills window settings "Show Modified/Real" and "Show/Hide Caps" were not saving across game sessions. Mouse wheel settings were not saving properly when set to "Cursor Target Current" or "Cycle Last Cursor Target". Patch 7.0.8.0 (Classic Client) Added “Use English Item Names” option (Default: Off) – Always displays item names in English, regardless of selected language. Client crash reporting is now done automatically. The pop-up window to that instructs the user to e-mail the crash details to the UO staff has been disabled.
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[Report] Large Drow Mine Gutted (Thursday 22nd)
Posted on Thursday, July 22, 2010, 3:19 PM EDT by Mapper (Europa)
Nathan Hawke arrived at the Counsellor's Hall, After a discussion about his head-beast as Aron called it he asked about the rumours that had been floating around. Hex and Trevelyan spoke up and said they had found three parts of a password in locked boxes, a part of password was inscribed on a lantern in each box they made up the password: UQ FD LS. Nathan then decoded the password to read RN CA IP, He said his intelligence told him there was a fourth box located somewhere. Someone jumbled the words around to form In Crap, Something we were all hoping would not happen. Trevelyan said the box locations were in no specific pattern, The three found were located by the honour shrine, near britain and near cove. Nathan agreed with Trev and said we needed to stick together, He opened a gate to North East Yew where he suspected the fourth box was located. On arrival we were ambushed by dark elves and beasts of burden. After a huge fight, Including a death of myself, the fourth box was located with a lantern inside, engraved with the letter W. Translated the letter turned into a T creating the password IPRNTCA. After aload of suggestions on what the jumbled letters could mean, Declan suggested we try them all, Something Nathan oddly agreed with as he gated us to the entrance to the mine. At the entrance mine after noticing people sucessfully entering the mine the password 'CARNIPT' was discovered to be the correct password, Inside the mine, Quite literally, death awaited all of us as instantly on entering the mine I died. The battle lasted what seemed ages as Summonded Demons, Mutated Dark Elves and Beasts of Burdens filled the caverns. At the end of a long passage the final few monsters were slayed and a huge explosion blasted at the end of the shaft. Nathan Hawke called us down to a Gruesome Standard on double clicking gave the sword: 'A Dark Elf Longsword'. Other items were found on corpses, Including 'A Dark Elf Assassin Sword' Sineal Walker managed to find! At the end of the event Nathan Hawke said Fynn Barrett would take over for a few days whilst Nathan took rest from an injury he obtained during the battle.
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Duchess Wildstar Wins Scavenger Hunt!
Posted on Thursday, July 22, 2010, 2:51 PM EDT by WarderDragon (Baja)
Scavenger Hunt Results Are In! By EMCrysania I want to Thank everyone who came out and participated in the scavenger hunt last night! I had alot of fun and I hope you did as well! Now for the results ...* Drum roll* First place goes to Wildstar! She was the first person to turn in a bag with the most correct answers and items! Honorable Mention goes to Nicholas and Proserpina! A plaque will be placed at the Rewards Hall declaring Wildstar winner of the hunt and a lantern will be placed for Honorable Mention winners! Congratulations to you all, you did a great job! grouphugs Safe Journeys!
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July Obituary Column
Posted on Thursday, July 22, 2010, 7:33 AM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
. .. ... The month of July seems to be very active on the Great Lakes Shard. The screenshots are flowing in and before my folder busts at the creases I thought I better post a few. Enjoy .. . Ace Ventura Ander Annabel Lee Bucknasty and friend Daslo hovers over his bones Diablo II Dirk the Daring Dixie Doll Master Filth Hack Helen Jazzmin Justice Kinky Lindera
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EM Events - July 2010
Posted on Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 3:28 PM EDT by Merik ONN (Chesapeake)
EM Events From Gregory The Town Crier Sunday, July 18, 2010 Hall of Commons, Britain By: Merik Wednesday, July 21st at 8pm ET There will be training with Commander Foxx and Lieutenant Irina of the Royal Guard. You may meet at the Royal Guard Barracks located within the confines of Castle British. This will be in preperation for an event. Remember everyone is welcome, not just Royal Guard. This is actually for everyone's benefit Saturday, July 24th at 8pm ET There will be an expedition following the map that was discovered earlier in the week, in the strange lands of Tokuno. Fiction for these events will be posted on the EM Forums. Remember three pieces of the map we've been searching for have been found, in our relentless pursuit for the Artifact that the Poseidon's Fury discovered so long ago. Monday, July 26th from 6-10pm ET [Location Map] The Sons of the Sea opens the tournament window once again. For those participating in the Angling tournament. Full details are available on the EM boards remember it is open registration. Current Standings Wednesday, July 28th at 8:30pm ET [Location Map] The next meeting at Her Majesty's summit table Thursday, July 29th beginning at 7pm ET [Location Map] The Sosarian Solstice Fair opens again. With new events to include: The Duck Hunt, Balron Tipping and something we still have to think up. Event Previews For August We have a PvP boat battle coming up. The reopening of the redesigned Duelist's Edge. Another stealing event, this time with a bit of a different twist and of course the continued hunt for those elusive map pieces and much much more!!! EM Dudley will be on vacation from August 7th through the 15th
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The Vampire Lounge will host Open Mic Night Rescheduled - July 25 @ 8 PM EST
Posted on Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 2:47 PM EDT by Sahra Swift (Catskills)
Hello Catskills, Lady Pandora has notified me that the Open Mic Night has been rescheduled for July 25, so that those who are also interested in The PvP Dynamo Gauntlet will be able to attend both. So, the Open Mic Night is now Sunday, July 25 at 8 PM EST. Those who want to get on stage should arrive at 7 PM EST. Safe Travels, Sahra Swift
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[EM Event] Meeting with Nathan Hawke (Thursday 22nd)
Posted on Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 1:44 PM EDT by Mapper (Europa)
WHEN? Thursday the 22nd of July at 8pm UK Time, 9pm Central European Time. WHERE? Counsellors Hall in Britain, Trammel Meet at the Counsellors Hall, North Britain, Trammel 8pm UK time. To discuss recent events and if possible make an assault on the Blackrock Central Mineshaft [Be prepared for battle] Event taken from the EM Website.
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[Fiction] Trapped!
Posted on Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 1:42 PM EDT by Mapper (Europa)
Trapped! The order was simple – Laelmice must be given the password so she could warn the Dark Elves still trapped inside the mine that all the other entrances had been discovered and that most of the Dark Elves had been defeated. The specially bred dragons were all dead also, but a strange new Beast of Burden had been bred which could replace the dragons… a little that is. Some of the Dark Elves were showing some signs of mutation but what this was being caused by was unclear to the various Houses in the Dark Elf Undercity. Despite this a few of the Dark Elves and their Beasts of Burden began to make their way towards Laelmice… Inside the mines the Dark Elves and their newly found daemon allies waited. Any assault on their position would need quite a large force to be able to forge any sort of bridgehead. They sharpened their weapons and paced… waiting for either their rescuers, or the inevitable battle... Fiction taken from the EM Website.
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Urgent! Special Surprise Tonight!
Posted on Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 10:13 AM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings Fellow Britannians! From the desk of Tempest I give you the following urgent message: We have a super secret special surprise for everyone tonight starting at 6pm PST. Meet at the Counselor’s Hall in West Britain prepare to be killed(likely multiple times). See you then!
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Excerpt From The Britain Beacon [EM Fiction]
Posted on Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 7:32 PM EDT by Merik ONN (Chesapeake)
The Wonders of the Wanderer July 20, 2010 By Jax Oakshield For this weeks edition of the wonders of the wanderer, we go once again to the wilderness of Ilshenar. Last week's edition took us to see the famed beekeeper who tends to make camp near the Ancient Wyrm's Lair high up in the mountains, and we have trekked on friends. After passing the treacherous crossing that is near the Ancient Citadel, my guide and I were able to make it to the desert gypsy camp that lies south of the Lake of Fire, Termir Flam. In our time spent there we heard all sorts of wonderful stories about the recent excavation of the HMS Poseidons Fury, but also a few darker tales of local folklore. One in particular is a story being passed around of gypsies vanishing in the night, never to be seen or heard from again. Of course, local superstition is never to be given too much sway in these cases, and we continued on.... [Original Posting]
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Moby Grape Memorial to be Held on Friday, July 23 @ 7pm PST
Posted on Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 5:49 PM EDT by Joy Elf (Pacific)
An in-game memorial to honor the memory of Moby Grape will be held this Friday, July 23 at 7pm PST at his castle in Trammel. An EM provided gate to the location will be available near Luna bank.
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Undead Surprise Attacks
Posted on Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 2:09 PM EDT by Merik ONN (Chesapeake)
Undead Surprise Attacks Multiple Townships Monday, July 19, 2010 By: Jamlyn Hakkendyn Picture By: Benito The undead attacked Northern Aryslan. They seemed to be coming from the northwest along the coast. The battle lead us further north, eventually getting close to Dragon's Watch. It had seemed the undead had taken it over. Legions of Bone Knights, Skeletal Knights, and Liches had the town flooded. It took a long time to destroy them all, but we prevailed. A few new undead appeared, and they seemed to be not as strong as the previous invaders. In a weakened state, it seemed as if they were trying to make contact with us. Not attacking us, but trying to speak. We then got word that the undead were invading Guardians Gate. As I was attempting to make contact with the weakened undead, Guardians Gate was quickly defended and the undead were defeated there. Paxlair was next to be attacked. Again in Paxlair, we saw the same undead invade. But this time, it was apparent that they were after one thing...the Spring of Courage. The undead were warded off eventually, and the same weakened undead we saw in Dragon's Watch, appeared in Paxlair. After many failed attempts at contact, one spoke. What we could make out, was "join us". Then, the Spring of Courage began to make bubbling, and out of it came "Polluting Beasts" and with them, a "Mound of Undead" which seemed to be draining the Spring of Courage. We have seen these things before in Aryslan, when the Peace Pond was attacked.
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EM Eris Bids Atlantic "Adieu"
Posted on Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 7:10 AM EDT by Fallon Valor (Atlantic)
Atlantic's dearly beloved EM Eris has decided to resign the Event Moderator program, according to a statement released by EM Nestor. The statement cites "the demands of real life" as the reason for her departure. Please visit the comment thread to bid Eris farewell and to thank her for her efforts.
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Weavers Wed!
Posted on Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 6:14 AM EDT by DevilsOwn (LegendsAOL)
Amid the beauty of Justice Falls and small woodland creatures with names such as Love and Kisses, Lord DreamWeaver and Lady BowWeaver declared their love before a gathering of family and friends with EM Tashik officiating. The ceremony was somewhat delayed and to pass the time we were treated to a song by Penderrin, a recitation by MageCruella and a game of trivia (with prizes!) by none other than the Groom himself. As strains of sweet music filled the air, the wedding party finally proceeded to the grandly decorated gazebo. The tailor Armani had provided his finest work for the occasion and both bridesmaids and groomsmen were a breathtaking sight. The bride was certainly one of the prettiest I have ever seen in her "A Wedding Dress", and the blush on her cheeks was perfectly enhanced by her jewels. After the ceremony all were invited to a reception atop a wonderfully decorated tower. Each guest was presented with a bag with gifts crafted by the couple and there was food and drink for all. EM Tashik attended and entertained everyone with a variety of disguises, tho I'm not sure the very large black cockroach which was eyeing the snow-white wedding cake was a welcomed incarnation! Congratulations to Bow and Dream
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Lord Xylord Wins Rares Fest Horse Race!
Posted on Monday, July 19, 2010, 5:03 PM EDT by Morpheus Mardox (Chesapeake)
Lord Xylord Wins Rares Fest Horse Race! In what was a fine race hosted inside the city of Guardians Gate, patrons of the Chesapeake Rares Fest saddled up in hopes of bringing home a taste of victory along with the the great rares available for saleon Fridays eve. 16 competitors in all took to the starting gates as guest starter EM Drosselmeyer sent them off with a bang! "And they were off !" Traversing the grand lap, players circled the globe en route to the finish line. Even a few brave goblins took thier chance on foot! Finishing in first for the evenings event was Lord Xylord besting the field by over three seconds. In a photo finish for second it was Tooty Fruity edging out Buyrat who took home third. Coming in fourth was Gandalf and rounding out the top five was Squanto. Congratulations to the winning racer and all who competed.
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Chesapeake Town Summit Report 7/14/10
Posted on Monday, July 19, 2010, 4:47 PM EDT by Morpheus Mardox (Chesapeake)
Chesapeake Town Summit Report 7/14/10 The leaders of the various communities around the realm gathered once again at the Queen's Table in Britain this past Wednesday to brief Ambassador Zadok. The room full of representatives, supporters, and onlookers alike announcements were the first order of business as the meeting got underway. Among the announcements from the Queen were that several public works projects had been received with favor by the Queen and construction was underway on several slated works. Inquired upon further later in the meeting, the projects included shopkeepers being admtted into player cities. The floor now opened to the seated representatives with announcements themselves. Ambassador Watson of the city of Kijustu Anei let it be know the citizen Sarah is now a wanted criminal in thier boundries for the leakage of vital information in recent weeks. Some sort of package is in question as well. Leader of The Royal Guard Daria Blackmoore invited the realm to a horse race as part of the Chesapeake Rares Fest. Two leaders of unrecognized of yet communites also rose to request introductions to the summit in Loximous Prime of (UHOH ) as well as Scorpio of (ACT). Both petitioned the crown for royal census in thier lands and inclusion into the summit. Congratulations to the newfound communities, I look forward to touring them soon! Talks soon turned to the recent attacks by the undead in regions around the realm. Emporer Jamlyn of Aryslan along with Governor Winfield both spoke to the summit with a warning for all to heed the attacks as the second coming of Mazrim. While the crown seemingly was unwilling to acknowledge this without proven evidence the city of COLT seconded the motion with furthered banter and accusations that perhaps the citizens of Aryslan themselves were to blame. Standing aside the crown, the would act upon her majesty's command. Enraged Jamlyn soon slammed his first upon the table in attempt to hammer home his seriousness. Several of the present seated representatives spoke to assure thier help when needed from the cities they reside. Guardians Gate, Dragons Watch, Paxlair included. Order was soon called as the gavel was hammered by Ambassador Zadok releasing the crowd for the evening. The next Town Summit is slated to take place on July 28th 8:30pm EST inside Lord British's Castle.
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Player Memorials
Posted on Monday, July 19, 2010, 12:24 PM EDT by WarderDragon (Baja)
Player Memorials By EMSeppo You can find the original thread here. In the light of a long standing need in the community to honor those fallen, we are happy to bring Player Memorial System. Now you are able to honor your fellow players with a memorial in the form of a headstone. In order to do this, you need to send us the pertinent information as described below using the contact us link on the Golden Brew Tavern Baja EM website. Please include the following information: 1) Name of the player the memorial is for 2) Location you would like the memorial to be placed at. 3) The memorial may have 5 UO lines of text entered. 4) Any other decoration surrounding the memorial? (We can lock down flowers/plants provided by players. If any other items, it will be subject to approval first.) 5) The date you would like this to be placed, if any. 6) Any music you would like to accompany the memorial. Finally, the success of this depends on being respectful and courteous. Please, keep that in mind.
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Can You Find It?
Posted on Monday, July 19, 2010, 12:11 PM EDT by WarderDragon (Baja)
Can You Find It? By EMCrysania Are you good at Hide and Seek? Do you love Scavenger Hunts? If so, then you don’t want to miss out on the fun on Wed. July 21st, 2010 at 8pm pst (11 est) for a Scavenger Hunt! Here’s the Details! Meet: EM Office in Britain Time: 8pm PST (11pm EST)
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[EM] The PvP Dynamo Gauntlet - Saturday, July 24 @ 7:30 PM
Posted on Monday, July 19, 2010, 9:58 AM EDT by Sahra Swift (Catskills)
Hello Catskills, Some news from Kasaven on the Catskills EM Website: Good eve, Catskills. Foremost, don’t forget there is an event on Tuesday. We'll be holding a variety of events on Saturday, all centered around player vs player combat. The global rules will not vary from event to event, as they will be minimal, but the actual rule set and goals for each event will differ. On Saturday, depending on our time limit, we will be holding three events. I will give a brief explanation of each after explaining the rules. ... (Rules trimmed out by Sahra - click to read) Event Time: Saturday, July 24th, 7:30 p.m. Meeting Place: Tram or Fel Britain Counselor's Halls. In Fel, you may enter the PvP house for safety. It can be found through the teleporter next to the Fel counselor’s hall and to the north. Remember there is NO fighting within the house. If you are banned from the PvP house, you are barred from further competition. Also be prepared for Day Two of the Dynamo Gauntlet the following week. Each event will win you victories or points, and at the end of the Dynamo Gauntlet, there will be winners declared. This Gauntlet may span two days worth of events, or ten, it depends on player participation, enthusiasm, and cooperation. I would like to be as creative as possible with these events and run as many as we can. I am open to player suggestions for additional Dynamo Gauntlet events. I trimmed out some of the post to avoid overwhelming those who may not be interested. To read the entire news posted by Kasaven, head on over to the Catskills EM Website. For those interested in giving our EMs suggestions for additional Dynamo Gauntlet events, read Kasaven's initial request on the Catskills EM Website or head over to the Catskills EM Forum here on Stratics. Safe Travels, Sahra Swift
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The Vampire Lounge will host Open Mic Night - July 24 @ 8 PM EST
Posted on Monday, July 19, 2010, 9:49 AM EDT by Sahra Swift (Catskills)
Hello Catskills, Lady Pandora sent in this invitation for all who are interested: All citizens of Sosaria are welcomed to join us on Saturday, July 24th as the Comedy Club presents "Open Mic Night" at the Vampire Lounge, open to all at 8 PM EST. Free food and drink will be provided to all attendees, as well as free parking! Anyone that wishes to get up on stage and entertain the rest of us with your best jokes and tall tales should be there at 7 PM EST for registration. Comics will have an average of 15 minutes on stage to do their run thru, so plan accordingly. We hope to see you all there! Safe Travels, Sahra Swift
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287th Assembly of the High Council
Posted on Monday, July 19, 2010, 3:40 AM EDT by Lady Tia (LakeSuperior)
*287th Assembly of the High Council* Date: Monday, July 19th Time: 10:00 PM EDT/9:00 PM CDT Note Location Change: Parliament Building, Magincia, Trammel Facet (the parliament building is found on the south eastern most corner of the island) Meeting Agenda: - Updates regarding the investigation on current threats to the High Council. - The High Council will discuss the present political and military situation in the realm. - Other items to be announced at the meeting. High Council of Britannia Posted by: Lady Tia LS News Manager
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Community Hunts - Week of July 19th
Posted on Monday, July 19, 2010, 3:38 AM EDT by Lady Tia (LakeSuperior)
Want to go hunting but don't have a big enough group? Are you looking for good guides to dungeons you've yet to explore? The community hunts are open to everyone! Come show your support for the Lake Superior community and take a walk on the wild side at the same time. Meet some new and old friends and have a bit of a challenge along the way. Navery Night Eyes hunt (Stygian Abyss) Date: Tuesday, July 20th Time: 8:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Host: Taeara Mi'Aken Community Peerless Hunt Date: Wednesday, July 21st Time: 8:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Host: Taeara Mi'Aken Grizelda the Witch group quest Date: Thursday, July 22nd Time: 8:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Host: Taeara Mi'Aken Community Champ Spawn Hunt Date: Friday, July 23rd Time: 9:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Hosts: Taeara Mi'aken And remember, these hunts are for everyone, regardless of their skill level or guild affiliation. Come meet new friends, see new places, gain experience and just have fun. Sabina Nikolai, High Marshall, Community Hunt Organizer The Order of the Silver Rose Posted by: Lady Tia LS News Manager
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Community Meet Up - July 19th
Posted on Monday, July 19, 2010, 3:35 AM EDT by Lady Tia (LakeSuperior)
Community Meet Up – July 19th Date: Every Monday Night Time: 7:30PM CST Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Meeting Agenda: We'll hear weekly announcements of upcoming events and hunts for Lake Superior from Sabina our events coordinator. The weekly community meetings, events, hunts, etc are always open to the public. No invitations needed! Everyone is always welcome to come ask questions, make plans, or make announcements. Bring a friend if you can make it, tell a friend if you can't!
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Something Wicked This Way Comes (a recap)
Posted on Saturday, July 17, 2010, 11:56 PM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings fellow Britannians! The following excerpt was overheard by a local Healer. This healer in no way wishes to be named, nor will he tell the location that he heard this, but in reference to tonight's events, I felt it pertinent to relay. The leader of the Bloodstone cult stared at a blood red crystal deep in thought. “You can make more?” he asked. “Yes,” said one of the cult members with great pride. “But does it work...” the Bloodstone leader eyed each of the cult members in turn. Silence answered him. One of the members finally offered up a comment, “We need to test the stone.” “Yes, yes we do.” The Bloodstone leader acknowledged the member who commented with a nod. “Tell me,” he continued “What sentient creature is the most… uncorruptable?” This evening we were again called to British Castle. My horse threw a shoe and I was very late in arriving, but I tracked down one member of the Guard who was happy to explain the night's happenings. Delilah Crow lead the Royal Guard to a Gypsy Camp rendered empty. The entire area coated in blood with no corpse to be found. The Gypsies had obviously met with a foul end. Wandering around, the investigating team was met by a strange hoard of the undead. Both beyond the power of the normal creatures of this kind found in Sosaria, and carrying an odd mutation in color, they attacked. The Royal Guard fought them off valiantly, their show of skill giving the one lone surviving Gypsy the bravery needed to come out of hiding. The terrified survivor told the Guard that a Red Angel had killed everyone in camp. The Royal Guard, ever aware of their world, quickly surmised that the only "angels" in Sosaria were the Warriors in the Ethereal Fortress. A fierce, yet peaceful race, it was very difficult to believe that any one of them could have enacted such carnage. Yet, with little choice, the Guard made their way to Ilshenar, and the Ethereal Fortress. It was there that they encountered one of the Warriors in question. Typical, he looked upon the group with barely contained disgust, disclaiming most as evil. I suppose when compared to their purity, it must be so, yet a task was set to prove the Guards loyalty to the light. If they could prove they were good, the Warrior would give them the information they sought. Having been told that they were to kill a tainted Terethan Matriarch in the basement of the Fortress, they wasted no time doing it. I was assured that it was no easy task, but that the Taming Brigade made mince meat out of the diseased creature. When they returned triumphant, the Warrior looked resigned. The Guard had, after all, fulfilled their bargain. He proceeded to inform them that an unknown Necromancer had come and dropped a red crystal on the ground. When it was spotted by one of the Warriors, he went over to pick it up. Upon touching it, he had changed to an abomination. A Warrior of evil, touched by the taint of necromancy. That was all the Warrior would say. At the end of his speech, he told them all to leave. I believe we can assume that this tainted Warrior is the Angel that attacked and destroyed the Gypsy camp. The bearer of this mysterious crystal remains completely unknown, as does the whereabouts of the Red Angel. Previously we were plagued by mutations of another kind. Is this the next step in their plan? Or do we face a new evil altogether? It is disturbing to think that someone has the power to create something so insidious that even the Warriors are not immune to it's evil. If it can taint even their goodness, what chance do the rest of us have? Best Gaming Wishes, Salya Sin
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Buglug's Recipe For Orc Stew And The Magic Slippers! (recap)
Posted on Saturday, July 17, 2010, 11:13 PM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings fellow Britannians! It's been some time since the evening I will be telling you of. If you will please excuse my absence and believe when I tell you that it could not be helped. On the evening in question, we all meet Delilah Crow in the Throne room at British castle. She quickly got the point of our summons and proceeded to explain that there had been strange reports of Orcs on the roads. They were halting travelers and stealing all leather and cloth goods. The Royal Guards task would be to locate their camp, and discover what they were intending. Logic dictated that we check the Orc Mines near the town of Yew. We arrived by gate just outside. It took some time of plain out running around until we were able to locate a vocal member of the Orc community. It was back in an alcove, that we encountered one by the name of Buglug. Buglug was full of demands and his disdain for us was more than evident. A funny little man, though he failed to offer any explanation for the recent Orc behavior, he did give us the offer of understanding something more peculiar. The secret to Orc magic. We simply had to gather something for his stew. The ingredient being a leg from a spider in Ilshenar. Did not sound appetizing, but to Ilshenar we went. There, we were set upon by two very large, very red, very angry spiders. They fought fiercely, taking the entire Royal Guard to defeat them. That Buglug had better enjoy every bite of that stew. When we returned, there was not even a thank you. Just another demand. This time it was to the swamp in Humility. Again, we were off to Ilshenar. Initially, we wandered again. It was several moments before we were once again attacked by vermin with unusually high tolerances and very robust skills. These Quagmire were not the normal fare to be found here and the Guard suffered bouts of horrible poison. It would take them longer to get the goop than it did the legs. Again with the demands? Buglug added the goop and then demanded some smelly plant in the Blighted Grove. The smell of that stew was nauseating, so we hastened away. My personal prayer was for Lady Melisande to be either otherwise occupied or sleeping soundly. Arriving, I was pleased to note that we didn't have to go anywhere near that psycho in the tree. Just the thought of her makes my skin crawl. Alas, it wouldn't be an easy task to get that plant. It was held by an Orcish Archmage that teleported constantly and simply didn't want to let us have it. Mean one that, and I must tell you, that plant did not smell pleasant at all. Whomever it was that had to carry it back deserved a very hefty reward. Arriving back, we were finally directed to an Orc Fort. Not big on details, Buglug went back to that horrendous stew, smacking his lips. Disgusting. I am not sure if there is some smoke signal sent out when the Royal Guard assembles, but we no sooner hit the dock leading into the Orc stronghold and we were immediately forced to arms. The three mages governing this fort were scary. Plain and simple. Terrifyingly powerful, and unlike any Orc I had personally encountered in all of Sosaria. The three of them took the entire Guard on and laughed. The healers were so busy, I'm sure they dropped dead from exhaustion at the end of it all. We did manage to end their reign, but not without extensive damage to pride and armor. Once we had scraped ourselves off the wooden floor and assembled outside the Fort, we were directed to a Red Standard placed at the entrance. This would be the secret we had come for. Tapping the hideous thing gave a pair of slippers bearing the same shade of red. When worn, they magically gave the wearer the plump visage of an Orc. I wasn't sure if Buglug had played a joke on the Guard because he could never have gotten the ingredients he needed, or if this truly was their secret magic. To be great at Orcish magic, one had to become an Orc. We were all now able to do that. (THANKS MESANNA!) Clomping away on big Orc feet, we all returned to our respective homes. Why had the Orcs been stealing from travelers? I'm guessing they were making magical slippers. Why were they doing this? Why do Orcs do anything they do... Enjoy your stew Buglug. Ewww... Best Gaming Wishes, Salya Sin
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An Evening With Faine And Buzz
Posted on Saturday, July 17, 2010, 9:57 PM EDT by falseprophet (Origin)
Hail Origin, The evening with EM Faine, and EM Infinity, has been rescheduled. The new day and time is....
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Spotlight on: Questing in Ultima Online
Posted on Saturday, July 17, 2010, 2:52 PM EDT by Watchertoo (CommunityNews)
Today we will explore: Questing in Ultima Online UOStratics is pleased to provide the players with a complete and updated Questing section. To access “Questing in Ultima Online” you may click on the Questing link from the right sidebar on the front page … Or…you can navigate to the Quest & Events page from the main menu, then click on the “Complete Quest List” on the left sidebar. Once at the questing page you will find links to information on the 7 Classic quests using the older quest engine, Questing 101, explanation about the types of quests and details of quests from Mondain’s Legacy through the Stygian Abyss. Please take a moment to see what "Questing in Ultima Online" has to offer. You can find it here. We hope you enjoy and find this information as valuable as we have.
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[Report] Father Grant Rescued From the Serpent Lair (Thursday 15th)
Posted on Saturday, July 17, 2010, 10:43 AM EDT by Mapper (Europa)
Nathan Hawke arrived to a large group of well armed guardsmen and ladies at the Counsellors Hall in Britain on Thursday night. He recapped the previous events briefly before talking about tonights plan. The plan was to find Father Grant, People suggested several locations where he could be, Nathan said we would start at Papua and work our way through the Lost Lands. Nathan opened a gate to Papua and the search began. At Papua a gate was found on the docks which took us to the area of the Lost Lands where the serpent lair was found last month (Report here). Father Grants shuus were found near the hole and I was explaining this to Nathan when suddenly a voice bellowed from the hole! It was Father Grant, He was trapped down the hole. Nathan was just about to speak when a group of grey armoured men appeared. This is where things started to get strange, Suddenly the large group of men sounding alot like horses began to ambush the Royal Guard who had came to save Father Grant! Whoever told this group of horsemen to attack us clearly had no imagination, All of the horsemen were labelled a number, The highest I saw was a ten. Mid way through the battle, Nathan confirmed they were some sort of assassins... Boy am I glad he is head of security for Britannia! Once the grey armoured horsemen were killed Nathan asked for some rope to help Father Grant out of the Serpent Lair. With a mighty effort from some strong men Father Grant was safely pulled from the serpent lair. Some guards decided to take him to Trinsic to see his serpent eggs which had been recovered earlier in the month. Father Grant said the eggs were still intact thankfully and that he is the keeper of the Ancient Silver Serpents. Nathan thanked us for coming and said the matter regarding the snake eggs and Father Grant would be taken forward at a later date.
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Third Map Fragment Found!
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 8:14 PM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
The third map fragment has been found! In a race that threatened to alter the balance between the Gargish Alliance supporters and the Keep Britannia Clean supporters, citizens rushed to find the third map fragment after being beseeched by Beh-Lem to do just that. Only one side would be able to find and claim the map fragment. The Thiefmaster, it turns out, knew ol' Jacko but didn't know his current whereabouts. However, the Thiefmaster indicated that he knew of a farmer who might know more. This farmer, he said, was in a very commonly traveled area; an area for celebrating. This led citizens to find Bartholomew the Farmer, at the Skara Brae Fairegrounds. Editor's note: The Thiefmaster mentions the Skara Brae Tavern, but this was a leftover keyword from the Mowdly quest.) Bartholomew, quietly pondering on a bench on the southern edge of the Fairegrounds revealed that the Gargish Alliance supporters and Keep Britannia Clean supporters were not the only ones who had come seeking information on the whereabouts of ol' Jacko. It seems the mercenaries had come looking for Jacko as well! Bartholomew didn't know Jacko's location, but said that he had been allowing Jacko to hide out in one of the nearby farmhouses. Searching a farmhouse a few buildings to the south turned up some of Jacko's personal effects in a dresser, including his personal journal. Jacko had also been reading some interesting literature, of late. It seems he had preoccupied himself with books on Judge Julius Dryden, a history of Blackthorne Castle, and secret tunnels, among others. Clever adventurers soon realized this could lead Jacko to find a new hiding place... in the secret tunnel beneath Blackthorne Castle, just as Julius Dryden had done years ago. However, it seemed that citizens were too late. The mercenaries had found Jacko first! But what of the map fragment?? Luckily, nearby, Jacko's dog, Scamp, held a note under his collar which--according to Jacko's final words--held the location where the third map fragment could be found. *Devil's Bond....* Devil's Bond? What could this mean? Serpent's Hold? The Collector of Souls in Blood Dungeon? The bowels of Umbra? Devil's Bond... Devil's Bond... ...then it occurred to those who have spent time in Ilshenar that there may be a connection to a tavern near the Honor shrine. Gamblers may have had an easier time of making the connection. Devil. The Devil's Roll. Deuce. Bond. In the old tongue, Vinculum. There, in the heart of the long abandoned tavern, was a skull set in flame. Touching the skull took citizens to a firey dais, where there sat a locked chest and a note. Here it was, at last! The map fragment! But how to open the sealed chest? Alas, perhaps knowing his time would come, Jacko had bound the seal of the chest to four guardian wisps who would need to be slain in order to release the seal. To the Wisp Dungeon! It took some time to find the wisps who held the keys to the chest. But once found, it didn't take long to slay the wisps and the chest was opened to reveal the third map fragment! The map fragment was retrieved by the Gargoyle Alliance. Names of those who were present for the final combat were submitted along with the map fragment to the Baja EM Reward House. Well done, citizens. One more to go...!
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Ranger Crow Requests Help From The Royal Guard!
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 5:10 PM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings Fellow Britannians! From the desk of Tempest comes the following: Ranger Delilah Crow requests the help of the Royal Guard this Saturday, July 17th at 7pm PST. Please meet in the throne room of Castle British.
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The Prophecies Foretold - Part IV
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 3:58 PM EDT by WarderDragon (Baja)
The Prophecies Foretold - Part IV By EMCrysania It was well into the night, a time when most were residing in their slumber, taking rest for the work of another day ahead. Darkness filled the streets of Britian, the only sounds were of the sounds of the Town Guards as they made their rounds, sending the ruffians of the town on their way, or running a wild creature or two that had made their way into the city, scurrying back out the way they had came. Yet, a single faint glow illuminated from a room in the Castle on this dark night. Shadows could be seen as the person in the room walked back and forth between the candle and the window. His massive wings casting shadows upon the window panes as he walked…… The Queen had insisted that he stay in the Castle, so that his few needs would be taken care of. In light of this, he had more time to devote to deciphering and working on the map fragments. Beh-lem rubbed his eyes, weary from looking at the two fragments of map laid out upon the marble table. He had studied the half map for hours and days on end. Yet no further was he in determining where the Scared Scroll was hidden. The other fragments must be found and soon, as the pendant he wore glowed brighter and colder each day, a sure sign that the enemy was growing more powerful. As he bent once more over the table, there came a intent knocking at his chamber door. Walking to door and opening it, Beh-lem looked upon a messenger standing, flushed and out of breath. ” Sir! I have been sent with something of great importance!” he said breathlessly, rummaging in his pack. ” I did run all the way here sir!” ” What is it man, what do you have?” Beh-lem asked the messenger. “This Sir!” replied the messenger, thrusting out his hand. Taking the linen wrapped parcel from the messenger, Beh-lem unwrapped it hurriedly. “By the gods!” he exclaimed. Read the rest of the tale here.
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New Fiction - Sosaria Sleeps
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 3:05 PM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald.com: New Fiction - Sosaria Sleeps Calvin Crowner 16 Jul 2010 17:45:54 EST Sosaria slept, and the long lashes of the night sky covered the landscape beneath the light of a waxing moon. For many, shadows are a place for the sinister. Shadows are a place to hide. Shadows imply a coldness, a detachment. For others shadows are a place for opportunity. Kerom’s Dream Kerom was just another soldier in The Cause. As the dreams slipped beneath his lids, shadows curled about his shoulder. Shadow: a different blanket of darkness shrouding him in wicked bliss. His kin moved in and out of darkness with grace, trading almost substance-les form for death. The movements of the chosen -- serpents bathed in warm oil, shredding silence from the warm, supple necks of their victims who were unaware all too late of their presence. Finally, the lavender goal of their rewards rested in their hands. Even in his sleep, Kerom, just another soldier in the cause...smiled. Even in this dream his mind worked. The symbolism not lost on him. Of course there was nothing to hide. All would be done in the light of day, in rays of sun and brilliant light. Dappled mornings would greet every citizen as each of the Chosen set about his task. And the message would spread: “Progress for all!” And the land would heal: “Follow us!” And every walking thing would surrender to the hope: “Join and be renewed!” Kerom slept in bliss, aware of how disturbing these dreams might be for some. “Freedom at the cost of blood?” Of course, it made perfect sense to the Chosen. But as the cacophony of sword and scream thrilled his slumber, his brethren shared similar dreams -- the sound of the captured, shrieking in cages throughout the encampment, embraced his ears. Dawn’s Dream Dawn woke with a rush. The calm of the chamber mocked the thrum of her heart seizing against her chest. The distinct copper taste of her own blood filled her cheek. Her tongue searched as if she’d been struck in a brawl only to realize she needed to unclench her fist and teeth. Visions of her citizens imprisoned in their own flesh, screaming without mouths, eyes tearing, stalked her mind like Harrowers. She too was screaming, until she saw her own reflection in a mirror, her lips and mouth absent, and she realized her vision blurring, dark claws embracing her shoulders … almost a caress as she fumbled for her broadsword. Her breaths slowed as she released her aching grip on the sheets, finding she had mystically found her weapon as she tossed in her sleep. Certainly it was just training and reflexes. The cool metal brought a peace and serenity to her reeling mind. As her fingers slipped along the flat of the blade her lips shifted into the glimmer of a smile. She allowed her voice, surprisingly steady, to break the spell of the dream …”Oh … I’m more than ready.” The Warning Zhah planted her feet steadily; arms outstretched embracing the flow of magic between her and the shield that protected her Kingdom. The mist and chaos of the Void teased at the edges of her power. She felt her talons burn as she looked for breaches. She felt the presence of all things from the palace to the Holy places in the South. Her mind reached further still until it skirted the darkness of the Abyss, the Slasher slipping out of a recent rampage to cut into a corner of her spellweaving. She smiled adoringly thinking to herself , “Hello Cousin of the Void.” All things had a place … even Evil. And in that instant her eyes snapped opened, and her muscles were caught in torment and searing pain. A convulsion ripped through her wings, feeling the spark of something she rarely felt: fear. In a leap she was across the room, one sweep of her wings shooting her the length of the Queen’s chamber, to her desk. Writing furiously, she half-scrawled a missive to her border patrols. An old Evil was on its way, and even the Slasher might find this one more than a plaything.
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[EM] Volunteers Needed - A Rescue Attempt
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 1:18 PM EDT by Sahra Swift (Catskills)
Hello Catskills, Some news from Nathael on the Catskills EM Website: Closing down The Ironworks armory for the evening, Abe reached for a nearby cloak to protect himself from the sudden rains that started falling earlier in the evening. His shoulders slumped and he sighed when he doused the lone candle lighting the room before heading out the door. The door closed with a thud and Abe placed a key in the lock, securing the building for any would-be thieves. Vesper was usually a peaceful town, but he was taken additional precautions of late since the disappearance of his brother Jon who owned The Ironworks armory. Leaning on a gnarled staff as a makeshift walking stick, Abe heading North to his home outside of Vesper. Along the way he mulled over jumbled thoughts that have been plaguing him since last Saturday. He recalled how his brother Jon hired able bodied adventurers to protect him on his trip from the Minoc Mines to the blacksmith shop. Halfway through the journey from Minoc to Vesper however, he and those with him, were ambushed by brigands and mercenaries that seemed intent on separating his head from his neck. One of his pack horses was killed during the attack, and the remaining two pack horses fled into the wilderness along with the iron ingots they had been carrying. The battle with the brigands and mercenaries was well-fought but eventually the hirelings Jon employed proved to be victorious. They quickly shuffled Abe back to Vesper after the skirmish without further delay. Upon arrival at The Ironworks, Abe asked several hirelings to fetch Jon from inside the shop and tell him what happened. Much to his dismay, Abe was told Jon was missing, and the only clues as to Jon's whereabouts lay with a bloody dagger and a pool of blood. His heart sank at the thought of harm coming to his brother. Several of the valiant adventurers soon noticed a trail of blood leading outside the shop and many followed the blood trail which lead to the Healers in Vesper. Within hours, several concerned people told him they had investigated his brother's disappearance and tracked the kidnapping brigands all the way from Vesper to Britain and from Britain to the old brigand fort just north of the Britain Crossroads where Jon was currently being held prisoner. He was thankful for their help, as his aged bones and withered frame could never have traveled so far so quickly. Coming out of his reverie, Abe pushed open the door to his home, took off his protective cloak, and poured himself a drink. With the knowledge that his brother was held at the old brigand fort, at the hands of the Antony Minot, he decided he would once again ask the same band of adventurers to lend aid rescuing his brother Jon. That pompous young brat, Antony Minot, must not be allowed to get away with this! He fumed, knowing full well that Antony Minot's skill as an apprentice blacksmith was no match for Jon vast years of experience, and as a result, resorted to tactics such as kidnapping and attempted murder instead of competing directly based on products and trade. He brought his fingertips against his aging gray wiry beard, tugging at it gently, and started penning another note to nail outside The Ironworks tomorrow morning when he returned for another day's work. "Help needed in rescuing my brother Jon Dering from the old brigand fort where he remains a prisoner of that young scoundrel Antony Minot. Anyone willing to volunteer their services should report here on Tuesday, July 20th at 8PM EST. I ask that you sheath all weapons until I have a fair chance to parlay with Antony directly. It is my hope that young man listens to reason and returns my brother safely without resorting to violence. I plead for your help as I worry that Antony might try something hasty should I arrive alone without vigorous allies at my side. – Abe Dering of The Ironworks" Event Date: Tuesday, July 20th Event Time: 8PM EST Location: The Ironworks Armory in Vesper (Trammel) (gates will be provided from New Haven and Luna to The Ironworks in Vesper) Safe Travels, Sahra Swift
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EM Event Announcement 7/16/10
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 11:56 AM EDT by Merik ONN (Sonoma)
EM Event Announcement Britannia Royal Zoo, Moonglow Friday, July 16, 2010 Gather at the Britannia Royal Zoo on July 16 at [6pm PT, 7pm MT, 8pm CT, 9pm ET] (Previous News) (Thank you Queen Mum for pointing out the time mistake. The time is now fixed)
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Games & Grannies & Echo
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 10:49 AM EDT by Petra Fyde (CommunityNews)
Ultima Online Stratics Weekly Announcement: Another busy week. 'Granny' left portraits all over the site in one of the three board games we held while the UO datacenter update took place. We hope you enjoyed them. I have cleaned up after our littering visitor, all portraits have now been removed. We are pleased to announce that Miss Echo's Enhanced Client User Guide and Echo Deco have been added to our pages, with her kind permission A new section, 'Current Event' has been added to the Hunter's Guide menu. New event creatures added by Stupid Miner - thank you, Miner. The listing of permanent, in game, books has been updated to included titles from Ter Mur And finallyThe 'pic of the week' has been updated. To contribute information please email to: [email protected], [email protected] or you can just send a pm to Petra Fyde. Thank you.
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A World of Memories...
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 8:36 AM EDT by Merik ONN (Sonoma)
A World of Memories... Multiple Locations, Sonoma Thursday, July 15, 2010 By: Queen Mum While waiting at Zento bank for 'The Traveler' to arrive EM Tailspin popped by to say hello and confirmed that all 'events' would be 'Pacific Time Zone'. Tobby the Traveler turned out to be a wandering TREE who was very tired from his long walk when he arrived. He asked if we knew of an Inn nearby so we could rest and chat a while ... we led him to the Saki Saka Tavern/Inn and while we refreshed ourselves with sushi and spirits he explained that he was rooted in the search for World memories. He asked if we know of such things as this on our place called 'Sonoma'? We explained that yes we have many memories and would be willing to show him a few locations ... The Reward Hall was the first stop to see if this was the type of memories that would help him in his quest ... but found he was in search of more non citizen created memories ... hmmmm ... maybe this mysterious crystal in Brit Castle ... but whoa he really had an odd reaction to the crystal and quickly asked us to take him elsewhere ... this was not a good place for him ... we took him to the beautiful memorial area of our former Seers next to the Counselor Hall in Brit, and although lovely it was not the kind of memories he is searching for ... (sorry no snap shot) something that is non living and walks, or could be seen as an object by many ... hmmmm ... so it was suggested the Zoo area has non living and many memories ... More questions about the type of memories that are held and how he does feel someone is 'watching' him so we need to be careful in our persuits to assist him... He then began to yawn and asked for some time to rejuvenate his weary bark... so we escorted him inside the Royal Zoo where he could find safe refuge and rest before heading out once more to gather details needed in his search ... he fell asleep talking to the beautiful changeling ... His last words were to watch the lantern at the living tree to let us know when he would be able to visit us with more details of his discoveries ... Several folks took off for the tree and found a new message for all Sonoma citizens ... Thank you Ansastu for the picture of the living tree lantern. Thank you Queen Mum for the report and pictures More developments will be discussed on Friday, July 16th at 6pm Pacific (7pm MT 8pm CT * 9pm ET) at the Royal Zoo in Moonglow (T) hope to see you there*
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[EM NEWS] Decision Time
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 6:19 AM EDT by falseprophet (Origin)
Caryn will be needing our help this Saturday, so prepare yourselves. Full Story
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[EM] Yub we searching.
Posted on Friday, July 16, 2010, 6:00 AM EDT by Crysta (LakeSuperior)
Posted to the EM news site; Hail guardsmen, guardswomen, and townsfolk! The word of a siege to one of the towns has been spreading. With the recent activities of the orcs, there will be an investigation of their kin. We have a spy currently hidden within one of their bases trying to gather information, our goal is to find him, without killing him, and gather the needed information. Sunday July 18th 8PM Eastern (7PM Central), Meet at Lord British Castle. The EM site itself is here [a new link to the old website].
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MOA Starts Summer Schedule and ELF LOVE FOREVER
Posted on Thursday, July 15, 2010, 8:51 PM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
Summer Schedule and Lovin Elves ~ This week MOA started their summer schedule. The MOA auction house will be hosting auctions once a week during these hot humid months rather than two. I stopped by tonight to see the summer scene and there were a few less patrons in the house but the bidding was fierce with some top of the line items hitting the table. DJ Scorp, Logan and Melian were running hot...hotter than July. Be sure to check them out on thursdays. This past monday I popped into the -Y- Guild meeting house. They have meetings every monday evening and some big topics were being covered this week. The Gathering of the Guilds was one of them. This yearly event happens on July 24th saturday this year and is always a historical event on Great Lakes. On the topic of Gathering of the Guilds I ran into Fleet Caption Gem from FCB while hunting some nasty gray gremlins earlier today. Gem informed me as always FCB will be represented at Gathering of the Guilds. The truly big announcement at the -Y- Guild meeting was that two of the guild members are getting married! These two members are creatures of the pointy ear type. Lady Lava has always been a sucker and a fan of weddings and I do not plan on missing the union of Illania and Anduril.
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EM RP Session - Leaf, Branch & Trunk
Posted on Thursday, July 15, 2010, 7:46 AM EDT by Merik ONN (Sonoma)
EM RP Session - Leaf, Branch & Trunk Tree of Life, Ilshernar July 15, 2010 Greetings! A traveler has been drawn to the lands. But who is he, and what does he seek? Travel to the old tree of life in Ilshenar to learn more. -------------------------------------------- Heya All! These are a few short RP sessions that will lead in to an EM event happening this Sunday 18th. RP sessions are not really full blown events. They are just little chances to interact with the characters involved in the larger scale story events. They offer no rewards and we don't really use our powers much at all in them. We do talk an awful lot in them however, and sometimes visit places related to the main story. I guess they offer a chance to see a bit of background, and get to know the characters a little better. Very good for those who like to get right in to the plot. Might be a bit of a yawn for many though, so you have been warned! Watch for that main Sunday event announcement coming soon! -EM Tailspin
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[EM] Fire and Team Work Training!
Posted on Thursday, July 15, 2010, 4:08 AM EDT by Lady Tia (LakeSuperior)
Fire and Team Work Training! Date: Friday, July 16th Time: 9PM Eastern/8PM Central Location: Lord British Castle Dawn wishes to train her guards on how to prevent fires and to work as a team. The idea and goal is to be ready for anything at any time!! (strong RP Event)
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ZOOfest 2010 (Sunday, July 18th)
Posted on Thursday, July 15, 2010, 1:18 AM EDT by Merik ONN (Sonoma)
ZOOfest 2010!!! <>On Sunday, July 18th from 12pm - 5pm PT (2pm - 7pm CT * 3pm - 8pm ET) join in the fun at the Royal Zoo in Moonglow (Tram) and while gaining personal collection points you will also help the Zoo reach its highest tier and see the beautiful rare Silver Steed appear!! There will be healers and rezers available along with games and prizes. From Ultima Online Sonoma Community (Facebook)
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Knock Knock Housekeeping!
Posted on Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 4:56 PM EDT by Merik ONN (Sonoma)
Knock Knock Housekeeping! Stratics, Sonoma July 13, 2010 Hello great people of Sonoma! I am Lord Gareth and I have traveled to your great shard to assist with News reporting and updating. Don't mind the dust as I walk about and tidy up a bit. Looks down seeing a envelope on the ground Hmmm... Opens the envelope Seems Andrasta and Airmid gave me the Keys to Sonoma Stratics!!! Wonders what chaotic trouble we all can get into Lets use these keys together, as we journey on a most Virtuous path...Evil grin Lets see Pulls out checklist Okay looks like were on track so now for the boring part. I started UO in late 1998 at the Britain Cemetery. (Felucca only at the time) Over the years I have done PvP, PvM and Roleplay. Fast forward Today I help run the Ethereal Void Imperium on Chesapeake and News report for stratics. Lets see thinks that is about it. I don't want to bore the heck out of you talking about myself. Lets talk about you!!!! I would like to know what the Sonoma people are looking for and any suggestions you all may have for Stratics Sonoma. Oh, I almost forgot I am here as a news reporter not a moderator. So if you have website and news suggestions please let me know, or if you prefer let Airmid and Andrasta know. I look forward to assisting all of you here on the Sonoma Shard! Tips Hat Icq:267944224
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UOGuide Classic Custom House Design Contest
Posted on Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 1:58 PM EDT by Watchertoo (CommunityNews)
This just in from our friends at UOGuide.com UOGuide Classic Custom House Design Contest News The Classic Custom House Design Contest being hosted by UOGuide has little over a week left before the submission period ends. The cutoff for submissions is July 23 at 11:59 PM Eastern. We have already received several submissions. Try to get yours done as soon as possible and send it in. Something will defiantly come up at the last minute and you won't have enough time to create your design. You can get the complete details on the design contest here. First prize is the choice of a 11th Year Collection Set, 7th Character Slot and Storage Increase Combo or 90 Day Gametime code. There is also a second and third place prize selection. All entries will be viewable on July 24 from a link on the UOGuide contest page. Voting should begin shortly thereafter. We look forward to your entry.
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[EM Event] Tuk’Ma the Orcish Warlord.
Posted on Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 7:34 AM EDT by Frarc (Drachenfels)
Tuk’Ma the Orcish Warlord Queen Dawn called again all citizens to protect the freedom of Britannia. She wanted that we meet.Daliah the Royal Warlord at the counselors hall in Britain. When Daliah appeared a large crowd was already waiting for her inside the hall. Daliah told us that there are several reports from the Royal Spies of increased Orcish War activity in some Orc Camps. She wanted a preventative strike against the orcs. It would only a matter of time before a attack on Britain. She wanted to make sure that would not happen. I could only wonder what harm a few orcs could do. Most orcs are not smart and strong to be a treat against the towns. But the Queen wanted our help and thats what we came for. We where ready for a fight with orcs. I doubt it would take long. Our first stop was somewhere north of dungeon Shame. A passage went trough the mountains. Not too long after we arrived at the passage a few orcs attack the party. Some of these orcs seemed to be a lot stronger then our normal encounter with a group of orcs. It took more effort then it normally would against them. A little further down the road was a cave. My curiosity was big and i wanted to have a quick look inside the cave. But what i saw inside was a lot more then our average orc war party. This was not a good idea to run inside the dark cave all alone! I hurried back to my friends who where fighting outside. It was a long and hard battle against these orc. I understand now better why Queen Dawn wanted a attack on these orcs. We can not let these orcs organize to make a large war party to attack the towns. Eventually we defeated the orcs in the cave. Daliah was pleased with this little victory. This was only a first step to stop the orcs. After Daliah destroyed the orcs war plans we moved further through the passage towards the east. When we got trough the passage we traveled southwards. A orcfort was our next target. And again a large party of orcs where waiting for us. Our party had a hard time fighting the orcs. The people who are helping against the orc treat really had to show there best skills and experienced. Daliah was right when she told us that only good teamwork would be the key to defeat these orcs. The heroes that are fighting here where determined to stop these orc. They where really great! At the end of the battle against the orcs in the fort, the last orcs where begging not to kill them. But we are not here to show compassion to these orcs. We are here to destroy the orcs war plans. And thats exactly what we did. Our final Battle would take place in the orc cave. Where many Orcs where waiting for us. Another long and hard battle took place in the orc cave. It seemed there was no ending to the orcs. But eventually we found Tuk'Ma the Orcish Warlord. After a long battle we took him down. With this removing a serious treat against Britain .Deliah was happy and I'm sure Queen Dawn will be pleased again that so many citizen are helping to try to keep the peace in this world. She can be proud how many heroes that would fight for her. All the heroes where rewarded with some Big Majik Flippers. But I'm not the kind of person that wear these things. When i came home my friend Buchel was interested in them. But as a gargoyle he could not wear them. I asked Gabby if she could alter them for Buchel. She could and gave them to Buchel. Buchel could not wait to try these on,but whoops they where magical. They changed Buchel into a big fat orc. We could not stop with laughing with the sight of this. I'm not sure if Buchel was amused with these flippers. Maybe i should not asked Buchel for repairs for a while! wink New Frarc, Drachenfels News reporter.
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Meet and Greet your EMs this Friday
Posted on Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 11:07 PM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
It will be this Friday, July 16th, at 8 p.m. CDT at the Britain Counselor Hall. A Meet and Greet hosted by our EMs....what a wonderful idea! Not only will you get to meet these two lovely people that have done so much for Great Lakes chances are you will run into friends also. See you there!
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"Let Freedom Ring" Opening Ceremony
Posted on Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 2:00 PM EDT by AirmidCecht (Origin)
It is with great pride as News Administrators that we share the following presentation to the talented reporting staff on Origin with Crystal Canyon and Falseprophet. This was done in conjunction with the "Let Freedom Ring" Opening Ceremonies. We also thank Origin's Event Moderators, Infinity and Faine, for offering fun events and activities to the community. They are both true gems with sparkly smiles. Yours, AirmidCecht and Andrasta UO Stratics News Administrators OPENING CEREMONIES Good afternoon citizens and welcome to the opening ceremony of the "Let Freedom Ring" Festival. Today we come together in laughter and friendship to celebrate the freedoms we all enjoy. We are blessed to live in lands that allow us the freedom to pursue whatever profession we desire, be it blacksmith, healer, warrior, cook or mage. We also enjoy the freedom to make our lands our own, to speak our minds, even if we disagree with each other, to gather together with others to form our own towns and neighborhoods. Another freedom we are blessed to enjoy is a true freedom of the press. We can rest easy knowing that our news is reported free of any government censorship or bias. We are fortunate to have three wonderful, talented reporters that help keep us informed of all the news in our lands. Today, as we celebrate freedom, I'd like to take this opportunity to recognize those three reporters and the contributions they make to our enduring freedom. In recognition of your contributions and dedicated efforts, let it be known forevermore that you have the thanks of a grateful land. Let us have a round of applause for our reporters. Thank you so much for all you do for our lands.
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Poll: What Type of EM Events Would You Like to See?
Posted on Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 12:48 PM EDT by Fallon Valor (Atlantic)
ATLANTIC--EM Nestor has requested feedback from the Atlantic community regarding upcoming EM events. Specifically, he is interested to know what types of events Atlantians are most interested in attending: invasions, PvP tournaments, mass mobs, RP events, puzzles/riddles, or recreational competitions. Please navigate here to participate in the poll: EM Event Poll
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[EM Event] Meeting with Nathan Hawke (Thursday 15th)
Posted on Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 8:39 AM EDT by Mapper (Europa)
WHEN? Thursday 15th of July at 8pm UK Time, 9pm Central European Time. WHERE? Counsellor's Hall in Britain, Trammel Meeting with Nathan Hawke at the Counselors Hall in Britain. Can all able bodied troops, healers and mages gather at the Counsellors' Hall in North Britain Trammel at 8pm UK time prepared to fight and search for Father Grant and be prepared to move him to safety. Nathan Hawke Location : Counselors Hall in Britain Event from the EM Website.
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Community Hunts Week of July 12th
Posted on Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 3:41 AM EDT by Lady Tia (LakeSuperior)
Want to go hunting but don't have a big enough group? Are you looking for good guides to dungeons you've yet to explore? The community hunts are open to everyone! Come show your support for the Lake Superior community and take a walk on the wild side at the same time. Meet some new and old friends and have a bit of a challenge along the way. Wisp Dungeon Crawl Date: Tuesday, July 13th Time: 8:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Host: Taeara Mi'Aken Community Peerless Hunt Date: Wednesday, July 14th Time: 8:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Host: Taeara Mi'Aken Slasher of Viels (Stygian Abyss) Date: Thursday, July 15th Time: 8:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Host: Taeara Mi'Aken Community Champ Spawn Hunt Date: Friday, July 16th Time: 9:00PM CST Starting Location: Skara Brae Community Center - located next to the bank Hosts: Taeara Mi'aken And remember, these hunts are for everyone, regardless of their skill level or guild affiliation. Come meet new friends, see new places, gain experience and just have fun. Sabina Nikolai, High Marshall, Community Hunt Organizer The Order of the Silver Rose Posted by: Lady Tia LS News Manager
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[RP] Bunny Bash a Smashing Good Time
Posted on Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 12:33 AM EDT by Phayde (GreatLakes)
(Whispering Winds, Trammel) This past Saturday evening, brave and valiant warriors, mages, necromancers, and their ilk strode boldly into Whispering Winds, suburb of Skara Brae, and set about a task set upon them by the Councilor of Jhelom, the eccentric Lady Beauvina: Slay the abyssal horrors known as vorpal bunnies. Assisted by Jhames of Jhelom, Lady Silverbrook of Magincia and Nujel'm, High Justicar of Virtue Ra'Dian Fl'Gith, and Perimoosyn Jr., Councilor Beauvina began a 45-minute contest to see how many demonic eggs would be gathered by each participant. At the end, 1,000,000 gold would be awarded to the top collector, with second and third place each taking home 500,000 in gold. As the event progressed, Beauvina (or a rabbit that looked suspiciously like Beauvina) hopped throughout the various pens, occasionally leaving behind bank checks worth 100,000 in gold. Several faces braved the contained summoning of the vibrant blue bunnies, including Ethelinda Long, Nehalennia, Drumheller, Archie Deadeye, Sadden Paradies, Martyna Z'muir (famed librarian), TheeLadyDenArc, Akuma, Vlakorados (Sadden's pet), DenAlton, Archie Deadeye, among others. Each took turns pressing green thorns into the soils of the Skara Brae Arena Pits, and summoning forth the foul beasts. After 45-minutes of bunny smashing, there were bright blue corpses everywhere, and more holes in the ground than one might imagine possible in such a short time. Each person counted up their collected eggs, and in the end, three winners were found. In third place, with a total of eight eggs, was Sadden Paradise the Great. In third place, with a total of nine eggs, was the Great Ethelinda Long of the Squires of Redemption. Finally, the first place winner, with ten demonic vorpal bunny eggs collected, was the Dastardly Drumheller. As Jhames of Jhelom commented, "Them bunnies dem be scawwy," in a rather backward accent, Drumheller noted, "It was a rousing good time." Ethelinda politely refused her reward, donating it back to the Jhelom, stating, "It'll fund some nice school or something in Jhelom." It seemed, however, that all participants readily agreed that they had a great time with the bash, and thanked the Lady Beauvina for hosting. In parting, Lady Beauvina mentioned that funding for the event had come from an endowment of the arts sponsored by Lady Silverbrook and Justicar Fl'Gith, noting that more information about the endowment would be forthcoming. Justicar Fl'Gith stated, "We're hoping to help others do things like this."
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[EM NEWS] Let Freedom Ring (Part 3)
Posted on Monday, July 12, 2010, 9:24 PM EDT by Crystal Canyon (Origin)
When EM Faine asked the questions, “ Have you ever gone to a carnival and played a game where you picked up a rubber duck and won a prize?” And, “Does anyone needed a dagger?,” it became clear that this was not going to be your average, everyday, run of mill, carnival game. Who takes a dagger to a carnival? The citizens of Origin do! And it was a good thing they did too… those Rubber Duckies were ferocious! Once The rules of the event were explained and EM Infinity had made sure everyone had a dagger, a gate was opened and the citizens of Origin filed in, (actually it was more like jammed in the gate…a one for all and all for one type of situation) and the duck hunt was on! There were little yellow squeaking ducks everywhere! It was hard to walk without stepping on one, but the daggers did a good job of hushing them up. One by one, the poor little rubber duckies met their demise and lay deflated on the dungeon floor. One by one, the citizens of Origin ripped out their squeakers and left them in silence to squeak no more. One by one, the people used their daggers to skin the poor rubbery creatures and collect the rubb… I mean, uhmm, prizes that were inside their bodies. Leave it to EM Faine and EM Infinity to think of this kind of event! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ So far, the 4th of July celebration had been a real “blast” and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves immensely. The opening ceremony was beautiful and the Foot Face, Jeopardy Games and the Duck hunt, had left everyone wanting more. When EM Faine asked if anyone wanted to “take a shot at EM Infinity“, it became clear that there was more to come. And, just knowing that EM Faine had glued EM Infinities shock collar on him so he couldn’t take it off, made the next activity a truly “electrifying” experience! Excited to reveal the next surprise they had in store, the EMs lead the citizens of Origin to the north end of the fairgrounds where a Dunk Tank had been erected., complete with an electric eel and a stoop that was sure to drop its victim into an icy abyss. The only better part of this set up was that the victim would be EM “Buzz“ Infinity. Now our dear EM Infinity would certainty earn all rights to the his given nickname “Buzz” from here on after. The crowd’s intense cheering at the prospect of dunking EM Infinity in the tank soon came to a halt as he removed his robe in preparation and revealed his haunting green flesh that was clad only in a daring pink mankini and a matching shock collar. Although speechless for a moment at the sight of a half naked EM Infinity, the crowd once again came to life as EM Faine gave instructions on how the “dunking” would take place. She explained that it would take great precision and a good aim to hit the target in order activate the mechanism of the dunk tank that would then drop EM Infinity into the treacherous waters. This would be accomplished by using a bow and arrows that she would happily supply for everyone. Once the order to line up was given, the pushing and shoving, line jumping, and eye gouging, began. It seemed as though everyone was more than a bit excited to take a chance at dropping EM Infinity into the icy water. And it didn’t help matters that EM Infinity was provoking the crowd from the top of his perch. Suddenly there was a “splat”! Then a blinding bolt of electricity emerged from the water tank, sending everyone within a few steps of it scattering to keep from being hit by the wave of water that spilled from the top of the tank. The crowd burst into fits of laughter as they realized that EM Infinity had just been dropped into the tank due to the marksmanship of a very skilled archer. Several times that evening EM Infinity graciously fell into cold water as the crowd cheered him on and EM Faine laughed hysterically on the sidelines. At one point there was even a “Drive by” that hit dead on the mark and cause EM Infinity to once again drop into the electrifying tank. As folks stood in line, each eager to test their archery skills and to have the chance at dunking poor EM Buzz, there was talk of filling the tank with other items of interest. The electric eel was a nice touch for EM Buzz, but what would be appropriate for EM Faine? I’m certain, that knowing the people of Origin that question will be answered… sooner or later. ( Probably with some help from EM Infinity!)
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Scheduled Maintenance 7/13/10 – All Shards
Posted on Monday, July 12, 2010, 5:53 PM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald.com: Scheduled Maintenance 7/13/10 – All Shards *James Nichols* 12 Jul 2010 19:38:19 Greetings! Beginning Tuesday, July 13th at 2:00PM EDT all shards will be brought offline for updates to the current database system. Due to the complexities of this maintenance we anticipate services will be back online by ~~8:00PM EDT~~. We thank you for your patience during this extended downtime. Update 7/14/10 - 1:00AM EST: The Enhance Client can once again connect to the game, we apologize in the delay for bringing this back online and those those users for their patience while the issue was resolved, have a great evening. Update 7/14/10 - 1:00AM EST: We are currently investigating an issue in which players are unable to use the Enhance Client. Please use the Classic Client at this time, we apologize for the inconvenience. Update 7/13/10 - 12:00AM EST: Maintenance is complete - all shards are now open to players, welcome back and have fun! Update 7/13/10 - 11:20PM EST: To ensure the maintenance was successful we are continuing to run tests across the game's systems. We hope to have further information shortly, thank you. Update 7/13/10 - 10:10PM EST: We continue to run tests to ensure the update deployed properly to all systems. There remains no ETA and we will update again at 11:00PM EDT or when new information is available, thank you. Update 7/13/10 - 8:50PM EST: We're continuing to investigate the delay and there remains no ETA, thank you. Update 7/13/10 - 8:00PM EST: We are working to resolve a remaining part of the maintenance, we are currently unable to provide an ETA at this time. The Herald will be updated each hour until shards are back online or we can provide an ETA, please stay tuned and thank you for your continued cooperation. UPDATE: 7/13/10 - 10:00AM EST: Additionally, all housing and character transfers are currently unavailable as we prepare for the maintenance.
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First Hall of Commons Meeting - Pacific goes Pink!
Posted on Monday, July 12, 2010, 12:01 PM EDT by Joy Elf (Pacific)
Pacific's EMs held the first shardwide Hall of Commons meeting Saturday at the new building just north of the Britain moongate. A host of the shard's residents showed up to discuss some hot topics. First, the EM's discussed the Hall of Commons and its purpose within the Pacific community. The HOC is meant to be used by anyone on Pacific to make announcements or discuss issues. Meetings occur every two weeks. Cyno Razik and Tailspin also made sure those attending the meeting were aware of all the various communication channels they could use to reach their EMs outside UO. Those being the website: http://pacific.uoem.net, e-mail to Cyno: [email protected] or Tailspin: [email protected], or PM on stratics. Some of the other announcments were as follows: Ongoing competition to design the HoC building - Players enter designs of a building of the same size as the HoC 18x18. They post pictures on a thread the EMs create on Stratics, or send them by email. Tailspin will design the hall as per the winners design and place a plaque out front naming them. There is a thread in the Pacific EM Forum here on Stratics regarding this. An announcement of another round Forge Wars for carpenters next weekend(Saturday, July 18th @ 7:00pm PST) An announcement of a cross-shard boat race coming to Pacific in September The possibility of a day-long summer fair with both player run and EM events There was also mention of an in-game feedback meeting with Mesanna for a small group of player elected...well, players. So far those elected are Capricron, Cynthia, Pooh, and Tyeelor. The EMs are still accepting nominations for this. Balka and I were also honored to have suprise plaques presented for our work as shard reporters for Stratics. We appreciate the recognition very much. If all of the above wasn't enough for a night, EM Cyno(who was already pink) somehow talked several of the players into donning pink plain dresses for Mesanna's viewing pleasure. Unfortunately, Mesanna was not a fan of Cyno's fashion sense. She retaliated by dying all of us pink, and even EM Tailspin failed to escape. Cyno, however...paid with his life. At least the pink plague turned out to be fun, as the "cursed" individuals swarmed Luna bank. As fun as it was, the pink skin dye returned to somewhat normal at server up the next morning. Pacific can only handle so much of that color.
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[EM News] Event Postponed
Posted on Monday, July 12, 2010, 9:51 AM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
This just in from EM Seppo on the Baja EM Website: Technical difficulties strike again. We are very sorry but the event for this Monday evening has to be postponed to Wednesday, 8:30 PM PST.
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[EM NEWS] Let Freedom Ring (part 2)
Posted on Monday, July 12, 2010, 8:23 AM EDT by falseprophet (Origin)
At the end of the opening ceremony, Sherry the mouse entered the Councilor’s hall and exclaimed to Queen Dawn “They’ve done it, they’ve broken through, it’s right where I said it was.” Dawn seemed excited as she replied “It’s still there then? They’ve found it in time?” Sherry told Dawn that yes it was and that the guards were watching, and awaiting Dawn’s instructions. Queen Dawn asked sherry to go ahead to the castle and summon Joshua to meet her there, to retrieve whatever “it” was. Turning to us, Queen Dawn asked if we would mind postponing the celebration and accompany her to the castle, which we agreed to do. Arriving at the Castle, we were met by Joshua the royal Engineer, who had; it seemed, been doing a little digging. Dawn and Joshua then began discussing what to do next: Dawn: Thank you for coming so quickly Joshua, I understand the chamber has been breached and the item located? Joshua the Royal Engineer: Yes Your Majesty `twer right where Sherry said it would be It took a bit longer than we planned as we had to be careful to reinforce the walls so the whole castle didn't collapse on our heads. Dawn: Thank you for your caution Joshua, as well as your speed. Are you now prepared to retrieve the item? Joshua the Royal Engineer: Yes, Your Majesty I await only your word to do so. Dawn: Very well, Joshua, please take this communication crystal so that we may know you are safe while you perform this task. hands Joshua a crystal and a lantern Joshua the Royal Engineer: accepts the crystal and lantern I will retrieve it as quickly as possible Milady bows Dawn: Joshua? Can you hear me? Are you alright? Joshua the Royal Engineer: says: Yes Your Majesty, I can hear you. It's a bit tighter here than we anticipated but... squirms through the tunnel I think I can reach it... OUCH! Dawn: Joshua! Are you ok? holds her breath Joshua the Royal Engineer: Just banged me head Milady I see the glow.... wiggles further forward I can almost... extends hand I've almost got it....just a little.. There! I have it Your Majesty! Dawn: exhales Excellent! Bring it out Joshua - carefully! Joshua the Royal Engineer: brushes the dust off Your Majesty bows and hands over the tattered bag Dawn: accepts the bag and carefully looks inside Thank you Joshua, you've done a great service this day, please ask the Royal Masons to prepare to seal the wall and repair the damages Joshua the Royal Engineer: As you command Your Majesty bows and leaves Queen Dawn then addressed us, apologizing for not being able to join us for the rest of the celebration, as she needed to make sure the Mysterious Crystal was made safe and secure. She then requested that we return to the Councilor’s hall, where we would find a gate to take us to the celebration activities at the Luna fairgrounds. Upon arriving at the fairgrounds, we were greeted by Faine and Infinity, and special guest EM Emile Layne. Faine said she had an announcement to make before we began, and then told us that sadly, EM Molly has left us sheds a tear (you will be missed Molly). Following the sad news of Molly, EM Faine got things started by welcoming us to the festivities, and jumping right into the first event of the evening, a footrace around the outskirts of Luna. Faine led us to the start of the race and explained the only rule was that we had to run the race on foot only, no mounts or animal forms. Faine then began explaining the course for the race, but there was a little confusion and some of the racers headed off in the wrong direction, but were soon rounded up and brought back. The race started with a jog south down the road and across the bridge, then began twisting and turning through the wilds of Luna. With the end in sight we made a mad dash for the finish line (a moongate), with Tasloff, coming out on top and winning the race. Congratulations Tasloff! After the Tree avoidance training through the wilds of Luna, we were escorted to the next event, UO Trivial Jeopardy. The first few minutes were devoted to explaining the rules of the game, and picking Contestants from the crowd by lottery. The contestants were: IcE BoX, Sunshine, Ed Zaclary, Nori, Crystal Canyon begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting, Sookie, Rebel, and a last minute replacement due to Mr Monkey having to leave, Gunner. After everyone chose their color, Faine began asking contestants to choose from 4 different categories, which were Sosarian Geography, Random randomness, It’s all about me, and The Virtues. The Contestants began choosing categories, and Faine would ask them a random question in that category. A Few of the questions and answers were: EM Infinity: What single word can you say at the docks in Skara Brae to cross the water? REBEL: pass EM Faine Morgan: Rebel, I’m sorry, we have to take the first answer given. The correct answer is "cross EM Infinity: On rare occasions, casting the spell energy vortex will summon a? Gunner: llama EM Faine Morgan: correct! And just in the nick of time EM Infinity: The Shadowlords represent what three anti-principles? IcE BoX: what is death love and hate? EM Faine Morgan: the correct answer is Hatred, Falsehood, and Cowardice EM Infinity: The center of the Britannian universe is where? SooKie: thron EM Faine Morgan: that is correct EM Infinity: Which city in Britannia is known as the city of Honesty? Ed Zaclary: moonglow EM Faine Morgan: nice typing! Fast, fast. That is correct. It was a close game the entire way, and in the end it was a four way tie between Sunshine, Sookie, Gunner, and Crystal Canyon. Congratulations everyone! Please stay tuned for Part 3. (As well as part 1)
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EM Faine Morgan Saying Hello Sonoma
Posted on Monday, July 12, 2010, 12:38 AM EDT by Merik ONN (Sonoma)
Sonoma-EM Faine Morgan Saying Hello Sonoma EM Faine Morgan Saying Hello Sonoma Unknown City, Sonoma Sunday, July 11, 2010 Hello everyone! I wanted to pop in and let you know that I'll be visiting you with EM Tailspin for a bit until you get a permanent EM. It's been a while since I've been on Sonoma so I'm really looking forward to seeing you all again. Back in the days when we first started the EM program, Sonoma was one of my assigned "Floater" shards and I have very fond memories of those days... (Click For Full Greeting)
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[EM EVENT] UH OH! EM Faine and EM Buzz are Up to Something... Again!
Posted on Sunday, July 11, 2010, 6:49 PM EDT by Crystal Canyon (Origin)
This morning I was notified via pigeon, that EM Faine and EM Buzz were up to their usual antics and that they had made some plans for us for this coming Tuesday. I had not had enough coffee yet when I attempted to read the scroll that was sent and it was very hard to see what it said anyway. (remember it was send by a pigeon...held by his feet...his feet are under his...well you can imagine how hard this must have been to read.) Anyway, I do remember something about a surprise and a field trip. Oh yeah, and I remember it was on Tuesday, July 13th! Better head on over to the Origin EM Forums and see what EM Faine has to tell us about this event. (I'm sure you will have an easier time with the details than I did!) Origin EM Forums See you all there!
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[News] Contact Information for EM Faine and EM Infinity
Posted on Sunday, July 11, 2010, 5:34 AM EDT by Crystal Canyon (Origin)
Ever Feel like getting in touch with our Origin EMs, Faine and Infinity? Maybe to just check in on them, catch up on EM Event News, or generally just harass them? (Possibly give EM Infinity some wardrobe suggestions?) Well, I have good news! It is possible! Listed below are several links that will put you in touch with either of them: Origin EM Forums UO - Origin Events EM Faine's e-mail Address - [email protected] EM Infinity's e-mail Address - [email protected]
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Greetings From EM Tailspin
Posted on Sunday, July 11, 2010, 1:57 AM EDT by Merik ONN (Sonoma)
Greetings From EM Tailspin Unknown City, Sonoma Sunday, July 11, 2010 Greetings! I'm EM Tailspin. I'll be serving your shard for a short time while we are getting someone for you on a more permanent basis. I'm currently also working over on Pacific, but want to assure everyone I'll be giving equal attention to both communities. By coincidence I just happen to have a good amount of free time over the next couple of months, so was able to take on the extra EM duties..... (Full Greeting) To view the full message simply click the full greeting link above. This will pay your entrance fee of five gold (Or you can just navigate there yourself for free Grins) Having worked with Tailspin before, I will say you are all in for one heck of a treat. As for me I will have information for you soon.... Deadly Music (Picture from Chesapeake but its the only EM Tailspin one I have)
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[RP] Jhelom Bunny Bash Reminder
Posted on Saturday, July 10, 2010, 4:30 PM EDT by Phayde ()
a reminder from Moocinda Cowlick, Jhelom Public Affairs... Remember to join mooly elected Councilor of Jhelom, Beauvina, and a few of her friends at the Skara Brae Arena Pits to bring Justice to "those GROSS vorpal bunnies" (as Beauvina refers to these horrific creatures of the Abyss). She, the High Council of Britannia, and any who wish to come are invited to push back this invasion! 7:00 PM (CDT) this evening, Saturday, July 10 Location: Skara Brae Arena Pits Reward: Millions of gold and 100 bales of hay to be handed out throughout the event *Come have a bunny bashing good time!* Also as a reminder, the High Council of Britannia meets every other Monday at 8:00 PM (CDT) at Compassion Grove's High Council building. Always feel free to show up for the latest updates in the Kingdom!
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[RP] Jhelom Bunny Bash Reminder
Posted on Saturday, July 10, 2010, 2:06 PM EDT by Phayde (GreatLakes)
a reminder from Moocinda Cowlick, Jhelom Public Affairs... Remember to join mooly elected Councilor of Jhelom, Beauvina, and a few of her friends at the Skara Brae Arena Pits to bring Justice to "those GROSS vorpal bunnies" (as Beauvina refers to these horrific creatures of the Abyss). She, the High Council of Britannia, and any who wish to come are invited to push back this invasion! 7:00 PM (CDT) this evening, Saturday, July 10 Location: Skara Brae Arena Pits Reward: Millions of gold and 100 bales of hay to be handed out throughout the event *Come have a bunny bashing good time!* Also as a reminder, the High Council of Britannia meets every other Monday at 8:00 PM (CDT) at Compassion Grove's High Council building. Always feel free to show up for the latest updates in the Kingdom!
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I Dub Thee
Posted on Friday, July 9, 2010, 6:34 PM EDT by Tiny Dancer (Atlantic)
"I Dub Thee" By Tiny Dancer "To name oneself is the first act of both the poet and the revolutionary. When we take away the right to an individual name, we symbolically take away the right to be an individual" ~ Erica Jong. Ultima Online is a world filled with many different personalities, evident in not only our mannerisms, dress, and attitudes, but the name we give ourselves. I know I have, and I don't think I am the only one (I hope!) that spends quite a bit of time thinking of just the right name for a new character. Sometimes, we are blessed to know the people we play along side of and other times we just happen to pass by them. Who doesn't notice names? If you are banksitting, 9 times out of 10 you are going to notice the other characters around you. If you are PvPing, you are MOST certainly going to notice the incoming names on your screen. Names are important why, you might ask? They define us, often times describing what we are passionate about, amused by, or more often than not, tell others a bit about ourselves, not just as gamers, but as indviduals. "The names that do the serious damage are the ones we call ourselves. The stereotypes we give ourselves are the ones that matter in the long run, not the ones imposed on us by other people" ~Judith Rich Harris I have played UO for years and never failed to be intrigued by where my friend's, and even my enemie's names came from. From conversations with others, I know I am not the only one who is curious about what inspired them to name their alter-egos. I interviewed some of the more uniquely named people on the Atlantic shard. Each one of these players comes with a different background, some of them are very well known and others should be recognized for creativitively choosing their names that they will undoubtably go by for their UO careers. NoKittyMyPotPie, of HOT What inspired your character's name? *I'm a big fan of Southpark and in the first series of the show was a fight between Cartman and his cat about a pot pie. He kept yelling "No Kitty My Pot Pie".* What do you think your name says about you? *That I love to fight over the little things and I enjoys cats,they are the kings of the animal world.* What is, in your opinion, the best player name you have seen and why did you like it? *Shadam the IV, since I'm a big fan of the writings of Frank Herbert the writer of Dune.* *Cear Dallben, of ZOG* What inspired your character's name? With most of my characters, I take names from my favorite childhood books and mispell them. Caer Dallben is a farm in a series of books called The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander. Caer means farmland, its an english term. Dallben was the man who owned the farm. What do you think your name says about you? *Well either that I'm a large plot of dirt(atleast an 18x18) or that I'm an insane meer alchemist hell bent on ending the world.* What is, in your opinion, the best player name you have seen and why did you like it? Ceinwyn ab'Arawn. I'm a big fan of that name, its got architecture and it rolls off the toung nice. Also it has made its steak in the RP community. That last name can be found on dozens of players in UO. Litterally. *Texas Pete, of COM* What inspired your character's name? *Because of my PvP playstyle. I play spicy, unpredictable and cocky. What better way to describe that than the Texas Pete hot sauce brand.* What do you think your name says about you? *That I will infact in time, burn your azz up.* What is, in your opinion, the best player name you have seen and why did you like it? I don't think I've had one specific player name that I liked the most but most of them are eventually renamed by EA staff due to being borderline "offensive". I do like when guilds have the same name and same dress doesn't matter what name they chose but that's always fun to see. *Athelas, of MALL* What inspired your character's name? Athelas comes from the Tolkien trilogy Lord of the Rings. Athelas is the name of a healing plant and I've just always liked that name. Its deep, I know. What do you think your name says about you? *Hmmm I've always thought of it as a helpful sort of name. I like to think Athelas is helpful in any way he can be.* What is, in your opinion, the best player name you have seen and why did you like it? Well I've seen a lot of funny names, some that probably shouldn't be mentioned. Hmm this is a tough one, you said these would be easy!!! It's not really so much about how creative the name is with me, its more about does the name fit. Thinking of names makes me think of Aos clothing for some reason. I guess the sort of names I like best are the little known classics, just find an old piece of literature, open it to the middle and pick out something obscure. Like Coll or Urd or G'Kar, When I see a character named Grocery Store it just doesn't have the same effect. *Fauntleroy Duck, of HH!(SL)* What inspired your character's name? *My name is inspried because Fauntleroy is Donald Ducks middle name. I am obsessed with Disney so I like to throw some hidden things in there!* What do you think your name says about you? *I think it just shows how strange I am!* What is, in your opinion, the best player name you have seen and why did you like it? *The best name I have ever seen is Rollo Tamassi. It is from the movie L.A. Confidential. It is the symbol for the person who got away with murder. I just thought it was creative, haha.* *SupSoc, of HOT* What inspired your character's name? Ahh! My old buddy Supermatt inspired me. I wanted to create a character after him...but it didn't go so well. When I created the character, it was susposed to be "SuperSoc Inc." but I got too excited and forgot the "er". But none the less, it turned out great! SupSoc Inc. (Don't forget the period..) What do you think your name says about you? *That I am Super...Chuh.* What is, in your opinion, the best player name you have seen and why did you like it? One of the best names has to be "Stiffy Junior." I have a funny story about this one...One night while we were in vent with a lady (who shall remain nameless), we decided to PvP. She was off by herself away from the group. Out of no where, she says "I have a Stiffy Junior behind me!" The whole vent cracked up laughing! Needless to say, this stiffy was no match for her. I hope we have given this age old discussion of "whats in a name" its proper due. As you can see, your reputation, how people will view you and even interact with you can all be based on something as simple as your name. "A good name, like good will, is attained by many actions and may be lost by one" ~ Unknown. Special thanks to Calat for the inspiration to do such a fun article! Quotes were taken from: http://www.quotegarden.com/names.html
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Producers Update - Datacenter Maintenance Next Week
Posted on Friday, July 9, 2010, 3:32 PM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald.com: Producers Update - Datacenter Maintenance Next Week Calvin Crowner 09 Jul 2010 16:57:04 Hello all! I will try to write a more extensive producer's update to discuss the current plans for publish 67 next Friday, as well as status on live events and core system updates next week. In the interim it's essential we catch you up on an important update to the Ultima Online network. For the last three months our engineering team in concert with EA World Wide IT, and the Net Engineering group have been working on upgrading our character databases and warehouse (read that "Housing") as well as login server applications to a new version of Oracle. What does this mean to you? It means a more consistent and predictable infrastructure. More simply? Account age, housing information, and the backup process for user data will be on a more stable platform. Why is this significant for us the team at Bioware Mythic? Because while we have worked on it in the background for months, and planned for it for a couple of years, UO has needed it for much longer than we'd like to admit. While we do understand that game bugs, skills and object balance, and live content are important to the longevity of Ultima Online ... the foundation on which all this is supported was at a critical level. We want you to know we are in this for the long haul! Supreem (Derek Brinkmann), Yvette Aarons, Brandon Williams, and last but certainly not least Stephen "Bleak" Brown have worked long hard hours to bring you this major update to our systems. Plan on server downtime early to the middle of next week across all shards. We thank you for your patience, and I'm certain you understand the significance of this update as we continue to improve the service of UO Have a great weekend, Calvin Crowner Producer, Ultima Online
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Puzzling.
Posted on Friday, July 9, 2010, 12:59 PM EDT by Petra Fyde (CommunityNews)
Ultima Online Stratics Weekly Announcement: This week we've been totally confused. Fortunately Ruwendon of Lake Superior took pity on us and sent us Solving the Underworld Puzzle Rooms, Thank you Ruwendon. Which left us with The Maze Corridor and Puzzle Board And finally the 'pic of the week' has been updated. To contribute information please email to: [email protected], [email protected] or you can just send a pm to Petra Fyde. Thank you.
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[EM News] Summons from Thiefmaster
Posted on Friday, July 9, 2010, 12:49 PM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
This just in from EM Seppo on the Baja EM Website: The thiefmaster has finally found some useful information pertaining to Jacko. Come to the throne room this Monday evening to go on a quest to locate Jacko and the map fragment. Unlike in the past, this event does depend on speed. Players from the opposing factions (Gargish supporters vs. anti-gargish supporters) will have a chance to get their hands on the map fragment. The quest may still be done at any time. However, only the fastest side will be able to get the map fragment in the end. You will receive thief notoriety points for sending in a summary after completing the quest. Gargish alliance supporters: Turn in the map fragment in a bag with your (or team members) name at the mailbox in reward hall (take the vortex from EM Office in West Britain). Keep Britannia Clean supporters: Turn in the map fragment in a bag with your (or team members) name at the mailbox at the PvP house located in Felucca (Take the vortex next to the moongate in Jhelom Fel).
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Shadowy Figure Seeking Volunteers for Undefined Task
Posted on Friday, July 9, 2010, 11:18 AM EDT by Fallon Valor (Atlantic)
ATLANTIC--The Shadowy Figure of Minoc is seeking volunteers to help with an undefined assignment on Saturday, says EM Nestor. The event will begin at the Shadowy Figure’s cave north of Minoc and will take place exclusively in the Felucca facet. Participants are asked to arrive no later than 9:00 PM EST.
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Tuesday Tavern Night Recap
Posted on Thursday, July 8, 2010, 10:37 PM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
Tuesday's All-Shard Tavern Night brought sailors from across Britannia to compete in a boating regata from the Kingdom of Dawn Outpost in Trammel to Candelabra Point to the docks north of Skara Brae. Sailors met at the Golden Brew where they were transported to the starting point at the Dawn Outpost. Grand Duchess WildStar of Dawn shared some of the Outpost's history. Welcome to the Kingdom of Dawn Trammel Outpost. The original building was passed the day Trammel opened up for house placement. A former guildmate placed two houses that day and give us this one for the cost of the deed. The captains and crew were then led to their ships, lined up and ready to race. Then Duchess, from checkered point, gave the signal! Staff of the Golden Brew awaited at the checkpoint at Candelabra Point to hand the sailors their checkpoint items. All of the ships passed the checkpoint successfully. Around the shores of Yew, the ships turned south for Skara Brae and, by the grace of sturdy northern winds, arrived at the Skaran Docks sooner than anticipated. Congratulations to Captain Gareth and Void! In second place, Nicholas, Son of Schezar and the Tigress. Third place to Sid Vicious and Prince Riain's Revenge. Afterward, Duchess WildStar led the participants to the Fairegrounds where citizens conversed with the staff about EMs Seppo and Pallando See you next Tavern Night!
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The Royal Guard Is Summoned!
Posted on Thursday, July 8, 2010, 8:06 PM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings Fellow Britannians! From the desk of Sangria comes the following: Meet at Brit Castle on Friday, July 9th at 7 pst! Hope to see you all there, Salya Sin
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Excavation in Castle Unearths Mysterious Crystal
Posted on Thursday, July 8, 2010, 4:08 PM EDT by Joy Elf (Pacific)
Citizens of Sosaria gathered in the throne room of Castle British Saturday night to try figuring out what the past week's commotion was about. What they found was a giant hole behind Lord British's throne and remnants of the wall scattered over the floor. There was little doubt this was what generated all the noise. Shortly after the crowd arrived, Sherry the mouse poked her tiny nose out from behind another wall. She seemed suprised at the crowd, but she also seemed to be waiting for someone. A few moments later, a muscular fellow clad only in trousers and shoes came walking up the red carpet with a pickaxe in tow. The audience parted for Big Jon the miner at Sherry's request, and she seemed happy enough to see the man. Jon flexed his muscles at female onlookers before Queen Dawn herself entered the courtroom. Dawn explained that she hired Jon to unearth the crystal Sherry discovered some weeks earlier because they were afraid of it falling into the wrong hands if left for much longer. Thus, Dawn sent Big Jon down into the darkness to look for the crystal. Jon bravely entered the unknown behind the wall only to encounter his greatest fear. Was it falling rocks and debris? Hardly. Jon's ear splitting screech was caused by none other than the standard cockroach. The miner sifted through a variety of priceless and unexpected treasures in his search: Lord British's baby pictures, a Wand of Win, a classic shard, along with Mesanna's mercy. With the mention of some of these(especially that last one), the spectators started to wonder at the miner's sobriety and/or competency. Finally, the crystal was found and brought to the surface in a tightly wrapped parcel. It was immediately handed over to Queen Dawn and she inspected the gem while Jon picked his nose(literally). He was thanked for his service and dismissed. Dawn explained that the crystal would be placed in a proper display case for viewing at a later time. It will be placed under guard in the throne room where according to Dawn, "Nothing will happen." The crystal is now displayed on a pedestal in front of the throne in the castle where it will hopefully remain safe.
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[RP] Royal Academy of Virtue Studies Justice
Posted on Thursday, July 8, 2010, 3:13 PM EDT by Phayde (GreatLakes)
(Yew, Trammel) Last eve, the Royal Academy of Virtue sponsored a seminar on the Virtue of Justice, chaired by academician Ra'Dian Fl'Gith who also serves as the High Justicar of Virtue on the High Court of Britannia. Many familiar faces from the realm were to be seen, including Chancellor DaKaren, Minister of Foreign Affairs Malag-aste Hla-ate, and newly appointed Councilor Beauvina of Jhelom all of the High Council of Britannia. Neptune, one of the Royal Spies, Kasavar of Dracona, and Librarian Martyna Z'muir were also among those present at the seminar. The seminar began with everyone introducing themselves and giving a quick insight into what they thought the Virtue of Justice stood for. Kasavar of Dracona began the introductions by noting that to him, Justice "is equal representation and a fair balance of action and reaction." Ariakas of the Royal Knights of Virtue felt "Justice is making sure one gets what is coming to them, whether [it] be good or bad." Akuma Yamamoto of Tokuno indicated "Justice is the means of upholding honor," while Minister of Foreign Affairs Malag-aste stated, "Justice is about trying to do what is best for all. Not only the accused, but the victim." Introductions were followed by a discussion of the foundation of the Virtue, that in Britannian philosophy it is derived from the Three Principles as Truth tempered by Love. This led to a tale of Jaana the Druid from ancient times, and a situation in which she was forced to decide the fate of an orcish chieftain based not only on Justice but on Honor, Valor, and Compassion as well. As the tale progressed, Ra'Dian stopped reading to discuss what had gone on in the tale thus far. During the conversations, Justicar Fl'Gith gave insight into his own philosophy, that "sometimes Justice has no correct answer, but oft shades of correct instead." Last evening's seminar was the first in a two-part look at the Virtue, with the culmination coming in two weeks on Wednesday, July 21 at 8:00 PM (CDT) with a trip into the Dungeon Wrong to take a look at the effects that the opposing Anti-Virtue can have. All are invited to attend, and the concluding event will meet initially at the same Counselors Guild in Yew, with gates coming later.
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Now Open - Library Of Arcane Knowledge
Posted on Thursday, July 8, 2010, 2:04 AM EDT by Merik ONN (Chesapeake)
Library Of Arcane Knowledge Thursday, July 08, 2010 Kijustsu Anei Village The Library previously known as the Mystic Library is once again open to the public and now called the Library Of Arcane Knowledge. The new caretaker, Violet Coldstorm was hired to oversee the daily operations and maintenance of the Library, which rests almost on top of the Well of Souls (Tokuno). I have attempted to run a background check on Violet but very little information could be found. Those who have met her say she is a very curious woman and seems to be very preoccupied with her work. Anyone wishing to submit spells, rituals, blessings, ancient tomes or anything that could be found in such a library is more then welcome to. Those running the library with Violet encourage you to red leaf any books you wish to have added to the library. This will prevent other players from tampering with your book. Submissions can be put in the mailbox at the "Dark Tower Alchemy and Magic building, located to the left of the Library. If you have further questions about the library or how to send in your works feel free to contact Violet Coldstorm, or Dread Lady CaT.
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[NEWS] EM Hall of Commons Meeting - Friday, July 9 at 9pm
Posted on Wednesday, July 7, 2010, 8:42 PM EDT by Joy Elf (Pacific)
Pacific's EMs are hosting the first of many(hopefully) biweekly Hall of Commons shardwide meetings on Friday, July 9th at 9:00pm PST. The gatherings will be held at a new Hall of Commons building located north of the Britain moongate in Trammel. Coordinates are 24.52'S 0.54'E. A gate will also be available at the Luna bank for the event. For more information, please see EM Tailspin's post in the Pacific EM forum here on Stratics.
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[EM] Hirelings Needed for Ore Shipment
Posted on Wednesday, July 7, 2010, 7:23 PM EDT by Lady Lava (Catskills)
Hirelings needed for Ore Shipment (The following note was seen posted outside The Ironworks armory in the town of Vesper) “The Ironworks armory of Vesper is seeking worthy adventurers who are willing to serve as hirelings for an upcoming delivery of iron ore. My brother, Abe Dering, is currently gathering the necessary iron ore in the Minoc Mines for a new, valuable, customer of ours. Unfortunately, the crew of hirelings I typically contract with to provide protective services on the return trip home from Minoc to Vesper have decided not to renew their contract – for unknown reasons. I realize it may be difficult finding a worthy crew of hirelings on short notice but, all interested parties should meet my brother Abe near the entrance to the Minoc Mines located just East of Minoc, over the bridge. Due to difficult economic times, I am unable to pay you in gold for your services, but perhaps we might reach another agreement. Jon Dering Owner of The Ironworks, Vesper” Event Date: 7/10/10 Event Time: 8PM EST Location: Minoc Mines (96o 51’N , 87o 53’E)
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E3 2010 Live: TGN Interviews from E3 Now Available
Posted on Wednesday, July 7, 2010, 1:33 PM EDT by Watchertoo (NetworkNews)
This in from Stratics Central: E3 2010 Live: TGN Interviews from E3 Now Available While at E3 2010, our TGN partners interviewed key members of today's gaming community. Please click on a title below to view that interviw. EverQuest 2 (SOE: Sony Online Entertainment) Battlestar Galactica Online (BigPoint) Global Agenda (Hi-Rez) Peregrine (Iron Will Innovations) Runes of Magic (Frogster) and Interview 2 Lords Online (IGG) Razer (Gaming gear) Congratulations to the TGN staff on these outstanding interviews! There will be more to come so check back often!
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Aryslan: Rebirth
Posted on Wednesday, July 7, 2010, 10:38 AM EDT by Nexus (Chesapeake)
Aryslan: Rebirth Aryslan City, Felucca Wednesday, July 7th, 2010 By: Nexus I've made it no secret that I plan to start doing reports on establishments around the realm, and tonight I happened to get an itch, a feeling that somewhere a story was brewing, and boy was there ever a story to be told. I just followed my feet, and they led to Aryslan. For those of you not familar with Aryslan, it is a city of rebirth, once prosperous then ruined now there is a movement to restore it to its former glory. While the orginal Aryslan Tower may be gone it's memory lives, and it's legacy is being rekindled, it's light and belief in the virutes are returning to help show us a past, and a one of the darker parts of its past is returning to haunt us. No story about Aryslan would be complete without touching on the history of the city, and Lord Jamlyn Hakkendyn was more than happy to assit me in learning more about it. Initally founded by the Order of the Sapphire Rose in the early part of 1998, Aryslan is a city with a historic past, and like any place of greatness there are a few skeletons in the closet. Unfortunately Aryslan's can still walk...... Aryslan and the Mazrim Wars. Inside the City of Aryslan is a place known only as the Tower of Souls, this was an possibly is the residence of Mazrim, a necromancer of incredible power. Single handedly he summoned legions of undead to being, and conducted not just one war but two agianst the cities of Aryslan and Vesper, his goal was to recover the Books of the Ages, a single volume of which can been seen inside his tower. He was unable to recover all the volumes however and was beaten back by the citizens of Arysland and other voulenteers from around the realm. Recently though servants of Mazrim have returned, and this time the assaults have effected several towns on multiple facets. Aryslan and the Troll Invasions of Vesper Being in close proxmitity to Vesper many of the assaults on the city had to pass through Aryslan or threatened it's territory. One of these campaigns was launched by the trolls G'Splat and G'Thunk. These two trolls invaded Vesper and the surrounding areas attempting to reclaim lands lost to humans. G'Splat was killed in the assaults, while G'Thunk lived and died some time later, G'Splats remains are at an unknown location while the Corpse of G'Thunk can be found in Aryslan. Modern Aryslan Recently Lord Jamlyn Hakkendyn returned from excursions out side the realm of Britannia to see the city he once loved and helped establish in ruins, his beloved tower gone with only the trinkets left by the overseers of Sosaria left to mark it's place. Without a second thought he and his brother Lord Jordo Hakkendyn began rebuilding the city of Aryslan and with their return, also came a possibly deadly price. Their return drew Mazrim from his long period of hiding and once again he has began to search for the Books of the Ages. The Brothers Hakkendyn do not know if Mazrim is the result of a family curse, or simply someone with a grudge against their clan, but they do know Mazrim has grown in power, he has even forced the devine being Mesanna to serve as his interior decorator as he refurbishes his Tower. On the roof is the Well of Souls the source of the undead that Mazrim uses to attack the realms. Many other relics may be found in the area around Aryslan still, most from it's early years such as the Pond of Peace. Those who touch it's waters recieve a envigorating sensation but be warned it only effects an individual once. Who knows what powers this small pond hold, though there is one that might. The Pond of Peace appeared with the arrival of Cordell Swiftmender, a Wandering Healer, who assisted Aryslan during the second war agianst Mazrim. He still wanders the regions around Aryslan, though he has fallen under some type of curse causing him to forget his friends and his past. Currently the citizens of Aryslan are looking for a cure so they can be reunited with their friend completely and not just his body. Currently Aryslan is contains around 15 individual buildings, they are always looking for more people to join the citizenry however and those who would act for the good of the realm, and have faith in the Virtues are welcome. Be warned though Aryslan has decided to this point to remain neutral and not swear allegience to Queen Dawn, though they also have vowed not to interfere. Lord Jamlyn has stated that once Queen Dawn shows herself a strong enough friend of Aryslan they may join with the current monarch but not before. This is due to a conflict with Lord British during the cities first incarnation, where he did not assist with repeling Mazrim from it's boundries and the wars he conducted. Notes of Interest about Aryslan For those who wish to see or settle in the city, there are several establishments of note. The Ruins of Old Aryslan: You can go directly here using the last teleporter in the line (SE end) outside Luna's walls. The newly erected town banner was made to encompass the ruins of the original Tower of Aryslan. The Old Town Center: There is a house erected on this spot that contains many books on it's history. The Tower of Souls: The tower erected by Mazrim, be warned Undead guard this tower, and though you may enter safety is not assured. Volume 1 of the Book of Ages can be found on the second floor. The Peace Pond: Approach this small pool and you will feel a sense of peace, touch the water and a magical sensation will envelope you but only once, after that the effect of the water is negated, though the memory of it will still bring about a sense of peace. G'Thunk's Remains: These are the remains of the famous Troll warlord and leader G'Thunk. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so. Cordel Swiftmender: A wandering healer that moves through the area around Aryslan. He assisted in the second Mazrim war, yet has now mysteriously lost his memories. There is an effort being organized to restore them by the citizenry of Aryslan. __________________ Thanks go to: Lord Jamlyn Hakkendyn Lord Jordo Hakkendyn for information on the history of and a tour of Aryslan. Governor Winfield of PaxLair for providing the tip off that gave me the itch.
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[EM] Pirate War Looms
Posted on Wednesday, July 7, 2010, 12:16 AM EDT by Phayde (GreatLakes)
Night 1 of a multi-night event... (Buccaneer's Den, Trammel) Lord Magnus Grey relayed news coming from the Commander of the Royal Guard -- Christine Keel -- regarding scout reports of fires in the seas near Trinsic and Jhelom. Additionally, Lord Grey spoke of a fire in the jungle believed to be coming from a small settlement near the Shrine of Honor known as Honor. "We have reason to believe this is pirate activity," Lord Grey indicated. The Royal Spies were ordered to investigate the settlement first, and then, preferably in the guise of pirates, visit Buccaneer's Den to further assess the situation. Before sending the spies on their mission, Lord Grey noted that Captain Sadie Rumswiller would be available for passage from Buc's Den if needed. At the Honor settlement, Robert McFarland was discovered alive, having hidden as pirates killed or captured everyone in the village. He went on to say that the locals were said to be protected by a local merchant ship, and the attack confused him. The captain of the merchant ship, a red-head named Maggie, had recently visited with the mayor regarding local mining rights. The link, it appears, is that the pirates who attacked were declaring war against one Maggie the Red. Once the spies had sufficient information, some travelled to Minoc to seek further information, while the rest travelled to Buccaneer's Den. A parrot in The Pirate's Plunder on the isle spoke of a smuggler called Redcap, while Sam the Swift introduced many of the spies to Calico the chef. Redcap himself was found in the Buccaneer's Bath, though was rather dismissive. Calico was able to provide information on several locals who led a handful of the spies to a weapons stash intended for delivery to Captain Smith, "The Pirate King." The Royal Spies set sail with Captain Sadie Rumswiller to the intended delivery point whereupon they encountered a pirate settlement led by the Liar Queen, second of the Pirate King, Captain Smith. As chaos ensued in the form of a battle between the pirates and the spies, Royal Spy Ra'Dian Fl'Gith appeared focussed on continuing the ruse of being a pirate and complete the delivery. "Nobeard the Blue," Ra'Dian answered as the Liar Queen held his chin high with a scimitar, asking his identity. His furtherance of the pirate ruse led her to offer a job helping to stop another pirate captain, one Captain Maggie Keel, Maggie the Red. Eventually the Royal Spies grew tired of deliberations, and attacked her. She threw Nobeard to the sand and defended herself, but she was clearly outnumbered. A nearby tome, found in her camp, indicated that orders would be left in a strongbox on the other side of the island each night over the next few nights. Back in Britain at the Counselors Guild, Lord Grey debriefed the spies, and Royal Spy Galen drew the immediate connection between the Royal Guard Commander and Maggie the Red. "It's the Royal Guard Commander's mother, isn't it?" Galen asked, "Same last name." Lord Grey admitted that there were some references to the matter in the file on the matter. However, of more immediate note were the instructions that would be delivered nightly to the Liar Queen's camp. Lord Grey asked for the assistance of the Royal Spies over the next few nights. On Wednesday evening, the orders will be delivered to the isle at approximately 7:00 PM (CDT), while on Thursday and Friday nights, they will be delivered at 8:00 PM (CDT). As Lord Grey explained, the situation is that "[t]wo groups of pirates are fighting, destroying the resources and allies of each other, but not yet directly fighting each other. For some reason, the merchants on Buc's Den are refusing to sell to these groups." Clearly, more information must be learned! This event continues on... Wednesday 7/7 at 7:00 PM CDT Thursday 7/8 at 8:00 PM CDT Friday 7/9 at 8:00 PM CDT
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True Lub
Posted on Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 8:47 PM EDT by Lyconis (Pacific)
True Lub (June 26, 2010) We were greeted by Omo Trovi at the Counselors hall in Britain. He is still in recovery from his recent ordeals and is in no shape to adventure with the citizens of Sosaria. While in recover he met an orc named Varbzka who is infatuated with a PIXIE! Could you imagine the offspring that would be created from an orc and a Pixie! Omo briefed us on the story of love this orc had for the pixie. He also requested that we seek Varbzka out to hear his story. We went to the Orc Caves between Despise and Yew and found Varbzka on guard duty watching the entrance of the orc cavern. He spoke of a fairy named Laral'ei that he thinks is very pretty. When Varbzka tried to talk to her she would light him on fire! He asked for our assistance to find out why she continually lights him on fire. Varbzka said the fairy of his dreams could be found at a waterfall near Justice Island. We arrived at the waterfall near Justice Island and met the pixie Laral'ei. She told us that she has been burning Varbzka to help him remove his foul odor! Having a rather distasteful feeling towards stinky orcs, she has been choosing to keep him away. After chatting with Laral'ei we discovered she collects truly rare forms of nightshade. If Varbzka could gather the nightshade, she desired for her collection, she may listen to him when he speaks again. This of course was delightful news, we rushed back to the orc cavern to tell Varbzka what we had found out. Varbzka said he was a fraidy pug and could not retrieve the nightshade specimens on his own. Being the kind folk we are, we decided to help him with his quest so he could speak to his true lub without being set on fire. We first ventured to the Yew Crypts to find a specimen of Rotting Nightshade. Venturing deep into the crypts we found a horrific group of monsters. Eventually arriving in the southern portion of the crypts we found the Rotting Nightshade specimen. Varbzka eagerly grabbed the nightshade and told us the next location to find more of the rare ingredient. We arrived at the top forgotten pyramid, where upon entering we encountered a huge force of demonic creatures. After slashing our way through the pyramid our party reached the bottom level where some Dessicated Nightshade lay on the ground. After barely escaping the onslaught we were off to our next location, a small volcanic island "in de ninja place". We battled the demonic horde of fire beasts that were drawn to the island. Slashing our way to the lower tip of the volcano Orion discovered a piece of Seething Nightshade wedged in a crevasse of the mountainside. Our next stop was the hedge maze to find our final specimen, the Cultivated Nightshade. Many of the adventurers lost there bindings while trying to find the hedge maze. When we first arrived we didn't notice much besides the common demons and imps roaming about. Upon entering the central hedge maze we found a plethora of abscess and other vile creatures. Fighting our way to the basement in the center land mass of the hedge maze, we made the discovery we were after. Laying on a table surrounded by horrific spiders we found the Cultivated Nightshade our orc companion sought. With all of the nightshade specimens collected we made our way back to the waterfall. Varbzka cowered behind a tree while our group approached the pixie. With a little bit of coaxing Varbzka walked towards the pixie Laral'ei. Both orc and pixie started a conversation and apparently Varbzka has proven his worth! Laral'ei even told the orc he could come back. There was one condition if the orc wished to see the pixie again, he must bathe before visiting! To thank us Varbzka told us of a secret treasure he was responsible for guarding. We were sworn to secrecy, if his commanding orc chieftain found out he would be table scraps for sure. After swearing secrecy he told us of an item he "obtained" from a "big bad orc" and we could have it. We were told to find a stump on the second level of the orc dungeon, where we would find Varbzka's treasure. We made our way to the second level of the dungeon and found a monstrous orc near the tree stump. Behind the orc resting on the stump was a green statue that appeared to be glowing with magical energy. Upon touching the statue a pair of green sandals would appear in your backpack. The orcs call these sandals "Majik flippers". If you equip the Majik flippers you will turn you into an ORC!
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STRATICS IS ABOUT COMMUNITY
Posted on Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 6:51 PM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
. .. ... .. . " Stratics is about community ". I could not have said it better myself. As one of the longest, if not the longest UO Stratics Reporter I know all to well why Great Lakes is so great and it is community! It was my honor tonight to be recognised along with Great Lakes Stratics Reporter Phayde by EM Elizabella and Malachi for all we do. A permanent plaque on the west wall of the Counselor's Guild in Brit acknowledges our hard work and volunteered time reporting our shards news the best we can. Phayde and I both appreciate this gesture. It means a lot. A small group gathered to witness this event including the stunning Lady Silverbrook, Galen, Lord Neptune, Malag Aste, Luna, Judeic II, Airmid, Lord Tye Weatherlight, La, Ra'Dian Fi'Gith, Chronicles, Broken Arrow and the always articulate Lady Martyna Z. The topic soon turned to Spies in Disguise as Pirates and off everyone went on a mission. Ahhh....Great Lakes at its finest.
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Mesanna Story Contest Part II
Posted on Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 2:24 PM EDT by Merik ONN (CommunityNews)
What you need in the story: Characters: Mesanna and anyone you want (Be careful not to offend anyone) Setting: Ultima Online, any shard you wish Place: She can go anywhere but, one location must be a unique area on the shard. (Any player town, establishment, Npc building or EM building can be used) Other Information: -You may use pictures. -It can be as long or as short as you like. -You must stay true to the first story. (Original Story Link) -Should take place 10 or more years after the first story. -You must leave it open ended. This will be book (2 of 3) -Mesanna cannot die or loose any limbs but she can be scarred. Contest Submission Email: [email protected] Contest Dates: Start Date: Monday, July 05, 2010 End Date: Saturday, July 31, 2010 Winning Entry Prize: Advanced Character Token OR Character Transfer Token You will be emailed the code of your choice. (Prize from the UO Team) Judges: Three UOStratics staff members
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Upcoming Events for the Month of July at Vamp’s Lair
Posted on Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 12:09 PM EDT by Sahra Swift (Catskills)
Hello Catskills, Lady Pandora of the Children of Darkness has sent in details about some events coming up later this month: We would like to thank everyone that stopped by on our grand opening, we sure had a lot of fun. Now that our city is up and fully functional we would like to invite all of Sosaria's citizens to participate in the upcoming planned events we have for you. Please mark your calendars and if you have any questions, feel free to email me at [email protected] or visit our website at http://www.childrenofdarkness.com/about/events --- we look forward to seeing you there! Every Monday and Thursday for the Month of July: Open Tavern Night --- Free food, free drinks, and good fun at the BLOODY BREW in Vamp's Lair. 8 PM EST. July 10th, Singles Night: Free drinks for all the ladies --- NO COVER CHARGE at the VAMPIRE LOUNGE in Vamp's Lair. 11 PM EST. July 16th, Dance Contest: Free drinks for all in the VAMPIRE LOUNGE at Vamp's Lair--- 5,000g entrance fee for the contestants, pick a song from the Music Box (or bring your own gear to add) to dance off to. Prizes are awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. RSVP your entrance to the contest at our website. 8 PM EST July 23rd, Open Mic Night: COMEDY NIGHT in the VAMPIRE LOUNGE at Vamp's Lair --- 15 minute spot per entry at the stage, BRING YOUR BEST JOKES! RSVP your spot on stage on our website. 8 PM EST July 25th, Market Day: Vendors will be on hand to service your needs, from repairs to custom imbuing, join us at the TOWER OF SOULS in Vamp's Lair. 2 PM EST Stay tuned to more events as we plan them and look forwards to CoD's quarterly Quest of the Damned series as we write the storylines that focus the RP community on Vamp's Lair and Umbra (check our forums from time to time). Be sure to bookmark our website for all events happening right here on CATSKILLS, home of the best EM team and the most involved RP'ers! Let's put Catskills right back on the map… ;) Safe Travels, Sahra Swift Want your news here? Send it to [email protected]!
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[EM] Commander Olivia Kanlocke’s office
Posted on Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 9:44 AM EDT by Sahra Swift (Catskills)
Hello Catskills, Some news from EM Nathael on the Catskills EM Website: A few notes… In Commander Kanlocke’s office (located inside Castle British), players will find 4 new books detailing the following information: 1. A list of the current RBG regiments and highest ranking officer (Note – I am asking that the highest ranking officer of each RBG regiment should provide their player name/rank using the feedback form on this website (http://catskills.uoem.net/?page_id=168) so I have it for reference) 2. Information for players interested in establishing their own RBG regiment and the (in-character) process of doing so. 3. A report book for the RBG regiments to leave important messages for Commander Kanlocke. 4. A book containing orders or information for the RBG regiments, written by Commander Kanlocke. - EM Nathael Safe Travels, Sahra Swift
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[EM] The Search for Fireworks
Posted on Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 7:38 AM EDT by Sahra Swift (Catskills)
Hello Catskills, A little news, unfortunately a little late. It seems there was a celebration over the recovery of an important artifact from Lord British's vault over the weekend, and I didn't notice until just now! Here is what EM Kasaven had to say about it from the Catskills EM Website: After the ceremony to uncover an important artifact from Lord British's vault, Queen Dawn announced that she ordered firework wands to celebrate. She informed everyone gathered that they might receive a wand from Cann at the Sorcerer's Delight Mage Shop, directly south of the EM Hall. She said to merely ask for "wands" and Cann will be glad to assist those gathered before him. This oracle event will be ongoing until July 5th, so get your wands while you can! Happy 4th of July, Catskills. Kasaven My apologies to anybody who would have been interested in getting a fireworks wand, but did not know about them in time to get one. Safe Travels, Sahra Swift
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Chesapeake Welcomes Newest Reporter!
Posted on Monday, July 5, 2010, 10:32 PM EDT by Morpheus Mardox (Chesapeake)
Chesapeake Welcomes It's Newest Reporter! It's with great pleasure I introduce the newest to join the ever growing Chesapeake News Team, Nexus the Thief. Coming to us with a wealth of knowledge and a legendary knack for being at the right place at the right time he'll be a welcome addition to our already fine reporting staff here on Chesapeake. Congratulations Nexus and may the golden pens of lore guide you on this new adventure.
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[RP] Newly Appointed Jhelom Councilor to Host Bunny Bash
Posted on Monday, July 5, 2010, 9:21 PM EDT by Phayde (GreatLakes)
from Moocinda Cowlick, Jhelom Public Affairs... Join the newest High Council member (and some of her friends from Jhelom) for a bashing good time! Newly appointed Councilor of the High Council to Jhelom, Beauvina, welcomes everyone to a Bunny Bash this Saturday, July 10th at 7pm (CDT). Beauvina states, "It is well known that bunnies, especially those GROSS vorpal bunnies, are creatures of the Abyss and must be dealt with! Yuck!" Please help the High Council and the City of Jhelom clean up these dastardly, vile creatures, who will be dug up at the Tournament Pens near Skara Brae. Runes will be available around most banks the day of the event as well as one located at the High Council building in Compassion Grove. In addition, Councilor Beauvina has promised 100 bales of hay and millions of gold will be distributed to some lucky individuals. So sharpen your swords, practice your spells and bring alone your best friends (human, elf, gargoyle or bovine) for a great time! *In addition, the High Council of Britannia meets every other Monday at 8pm (CDT) at Compassion Grove's High Council building. Always feel free to show up for the latest updates in the Kingdom!
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[EM Event] Meeting with Queen Dawn!
Posted on Monday, July 5, 2010, 10:18 AM EDT by Frarc (Drachenfels)
Meeting with Queen Dawn! What seemed to be a normal day in Sosaria, changed when my ears heard the Luna Town cryers yelling some important message around. I had to step a bit closer to hear the news. "Meet Queen Dawn in her Throne Room at Sunday" they yelled! Something very important must have happened that the Queen herself wanted to talk to her people. I could only wonder what must be so important to call for us.I had to be sure i was on time for this meeting. Twenty minutes before the Queen would appear i headed to Britains castle. I was not the only one who was early. And already there was a big crowd waiting for the Queen. All curious what this news would be. In the back of the throne room there was a big hole in the wall. Maybe the news had something to do with it. A familiar face appeared. It was Ealia Tiefwasser. She came to tell us that Queen Dawn was a bit late.She was in a meeting with various advisor's. Of course we would wait for Queen Dawn a bit longer. Some of us did wonder if she needed advice on what shoes to wear on this important meeting. A few minutes after Ealia left another visitor came to speak with us. It was Sherry the mouse! She seemed to be very excited on a discovery she made. The vault of Lord British!The castle still have some secrets to reveal even after the disappearance of the King years ago. And then, there she was, our Queen! Finally the Queen got away from her advisor's. She came to tell us the exciting news about the discovery of the vault. Within this vault seemed to be a powerful crystal. Three items are needed to open this fault but when the King disappeared the items disappeared with him. But the Queen knew a way. She said: "The Cloak that protect Britannia is the courage of its people. The Crown that ennobles Britannia is the love of its people. The Scepter that guides Britannia is the truth of its people." It could only means that the power to open the vault is within us all. Queen dawn then called in the help of a Royal mining expert. The Queen asked him that he understood what he had to do and what he had to find. The miner started to dig in the hole in the throne room. It did not seem to be a easy task. Not to mention it was very dark under the castle floor. After several minutes of digging the miner found the crystal.He gave the crystal to Queen Dawn. She was very happy with this finding of the crystal. This crystal could have the power to restore Magincia! Could it be really be possible? Magincia was totally destroyed. The town is nothing more then ruins.Does this crystal really has that kinda power? I know that items with great powers often have a nasty side effect. I hope the Queen investigates the risk if she planning to use this crystal. The Queen told us that this was a day for celebration. And told us we could find a gift for everyone at the west bank of britain. She thanked us all for coming. When the Queen left and everyone went to the bank for there gifts i kept looking at the crystal. Standing on a pedestal guarded by the elite guards of the Queen. Restoring Magincia would be great.... but at what price? Maybe i worry too much! I headed to the bank to see what gifts the Queen wanted to give us for a celebration. A big pink statue was at the bank. When touched a magical staff appeared in our hands. The staff had the power to show some beautiful fireworks. I took a few staffs for my friends and then headed home for some sleep. It was a long day again.I hope i can find some sleep. In my mind i keep seeing that crystal.And i am worried! New Frarc, Drachenfels News reporter.
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June Obits ~ Part Two
Posted on Monday, July 5, 2010, 9:48 AM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
. .. ... .. . PART TWO ~ JUNE OBITS lil babs stabs Manx Oog Reakwon Rouge of DC Shibazz Shibazz, Thanatos, Filth and Equinox Tiamat Daslo Autumn
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Celebrating July 4th with a few June Obits
Posted on Monday, July 5, 2010, 9:22 AM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
Celebrating July 4th with a Few June Obits ~ Yesterday was the big day of celebration here in the states however today is the offical day. * claps for no work * With all my travels last month I did not post any Obituary Columns in June so I will now play make up. Enjoy the June deaths ! Many are from the war that is still raging. Arilyn Moonblade Avalonis Blight Blight again Carlion Ironfist Dargon Dark Maiden Hattori Helen dead twice Killgour Lindrowsky Mack Truck
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Mysterious Crystal on display
Posted on Monday, July 5, 2010, 3:02 AM EDT by falseprophet (Origin)
Following Joshua The Royal Engineer's harrowing ordeal below the castle, the Mysterious Crystal he retrieved is now on display in the Throne room. Be sure to go by and see it.
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[Report] Skara Brae Surprise Attack (Sunday 4th)

Posted on Sunday, July 4, 2010, 3:28 PM EDT by Mapper (Europa)

A crowd had gathered in the rather dusty and brick filled Throne Room of Castle Britannia, In the corner of the room a large hole was visible from behind a curtain.

At 8pm Queen Dawn arrived and thanked us for coming, She began to explain the reasoning for the mess.

Quote:

Queen Dawn: "A few days ago Sherry came to visit me, Sherry had stumbled upon a strange crystal somewhere in her tunnels."

A member of the audience asked what kind of crystal it was, Queen Dawn didn't know. Dawn then continued.

Quote:

Queen Dawn: "Since we haven't actually seen it yet (The crystal). It is still inside the hole. You see the crystal was too large for Sherry to carry it out.

Kevin Longshot: "So you blew the floor up?"

Queen Dawn: "In short, ye

s."

Rumours whispered throughout the crowd about Ricardo and the secret vault of Lord British.

Quote:

Queen Dawn: "I think some of you may have heard of this as well. It seems a secret password was needed to enter the door. But, my advisor's found out that the password wasn't the only thing needed to enter the secret door. 3 Items are required to enter this secret door, Lord British' Cloak, his scepter and his crown. None of these we posses.. So it seemed more practical to just blow a hole in the floor."

Queen Dawn then called forward a man called William, The person responsible for the hole in the floor. He placed communication crystals on the floor of the Throne Room and began to lower himself into the hole.

Down in the hole he found a mass of mouse droppings.. and, most importantly, The mysterious crystal! Queen Dawn thanked him and told him to take it to the Royal Tinker so a case can be crafted for it, The crystal could then be examined.

Once William left, suddenly the Queens messaging bird flew into the room. She removed the message from the birds leg and read the message aloud.

Quote:

Queen Dawn: "Skara Brae is under attack! Serpents and Alligators are attacking the town."

She requested we suit up and leave immediately!

At Skara Brae the entire town was covered in flapping green daemon type monsters called 'Putrefiers'.

Over on the south side of the Island giant blackrock infected Spiders appeared.

Over the city blackrock infected Spiders, Serpents and Alligators appeared alongside Red Deaths, Putrefiers and more undead big baddies.

The battle continued over the Skara Brae Ferry and onto the main land.

Finally the battle ended, Near by in the middle of the road was a red statue.

Double clicking the statue gives you a red staff that shoots off a random amount of fire works, It automaticly recharges over time and you can get one per character.

Want one? I'm sure you do! If you didn't get one in the battle I have included a map.

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Dawn Assembles Britannians in Throne Room, 4 July at 8:00 PM
Posted on Sunday, July 4, 2010, 1:40 PM EDT by Fallon Valor (Atlantic)
ATLANTIC--Queen Dawn plans to assemble the citizens of Britannia tonight in the royal throne room, according to a statement released by EM Nestor. The Queen plans to address her subjects at 8:00 PM.
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Spotlight on: Item Catalogue
Posted on Sunday, July 4, 2010, 11:34 AM EDT by Watchertoo (CommunityNews)
This will be an occasional feature highlighting an aspect of the site. Today we will explore the: Item Catalogue . The Item Catalogue is accessed from the front page. Just type in the item name you wish to locate and click on the Item Catalogue button. Sometimes “less is more” and one word will provide you with choices that will include the specific item you are looking for. A video explaining Item Catalogue use can be viewed here.
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4th of July: Claim Your Free Holiday Staff!
Posted on Sunday, July 4, 2010, 8:49 AM EDT by Fallon Valor (Atlantic)
ATLANTIC--At the West Britain Bank in Trammel there is a red statue. Double-click it to have a "Sparkle Stick Powered by Fireflies" placed in your backpack. It has 100 fireworks charges. Submitted by JC the Builder. Published with author's permission.
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Happy Independence Day!
Posted on Sunday, July 4, 2010, 2:57 AM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
As a part of the Fourth of July celebrations, EM Crysania visited the Skara Brae Fairegrounds to launch a celebration of freedoms shared by all Britannians. Crysania promised to be on her very best EM behavior.... And citizens oohed and ahhed as the fireworks displays began! After the fireworks, there was a drunken darts competition, adjudicated by Crysania, who mandated that anyone who lined up to throw hic for her before they were allowed to compete. Citizens were also treated to a wonderful scavenger hunt, sponsored by Capt Coverteur of C@S. Thanks, Capt! Of course, no good Crysania event would be complete without a pie fight! And as it turns out, Crysania's "very best behavior" is subjective, or perhaps that she simply couldn't resist. As the EM conveniently excused herself for a moment, a band of mercenary scouts invaded the celebration. This reporter speculates that "very best behavior" means that we were fortunate she didn't send a paragon. Still, there were no known casualties, as promised, and the rest of the afternoon was spent with good companionship and lots of sparklers. Happy Independence Day, Britannia!
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A Royal Excavation
Posted on Sunday, July 4, 2010, 2:04 AM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
Last night, citizens gathered in the throne room as requested by Queen Dawn to witness a momentous occasion. I have asked you here this evening to witness something of great importance. As many have heard... our dear Friend, Sherry... has found something we think is of great importance. As you can see, there has been quite a bit of excavation behind the throne. In times past, Words of Magic were used to open a magical door behind the throne. I did not want to take a chance, since many know these words, of what we seek falling into the wrong hands. I went with my instincts, and thought it best if I excavated the hole. And have one of my trusted workers to go inside and retrieve the object. If you will, please. The Queen gestured to a member of the audience, a construction worker, who despite a few inebriated stumbles, pulled himself onstage and accepted a communication crystal from the Queen before lowering himself into the hole. Ahem. Is this working, m'lady? Wait..I supose there is no way you can talk back to me. Well then... It is quite dark in here. Pitch dark past the lantern's glow. Lot of cobwebs everywhere! I know few lasses who would never step in this mess! Err right, I don't suppose you are interested in that. Aha, what is this! There is another source of light.... Ahh! gasps It is beautiful.... ... Right. At this point, it was several minutes before anything more was heard from the worker, and many feared the worst as naught but silence came through the communication crystal. Then, at last he emerged. He discreetly handed the find to Queen Dawn. What was this item? What was its function? Its purpose? Its origins? Why was it so magnificent a find? Queen Dawn offered no insight but cryptically announced she would put the crystal on display. I shall have a display made at once. So that you the citizens of the realm can look upon it. Thank you for your bravery, Sir. As a reward for his service, the Queen offered for the construction worker to put his drinks on Elias's tab. After the Queen returned to the inner chambers of the palace, citizens followed the construction worker to the Cats Eye tavern in an attempt to winkle out more information about the mysterious find. Though the information they learned was perhaps not information they had intended to uncover. They did, however, learn that the construction worker's name was Andrew; to which some of the patrons shivered. Many will recall that Andrew was also the name of the personal servant of the Shadowlords who was introduced during the reign of Casca. An unfortunate coincidence. Citizens, the crystal excavated by Queen Dawn and Andrew the Construction Worker can now be seen at the royal palace.
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Yattering On Patrol!
Posted on Sunday, July 4, 2010, 12:07 AM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
In the wake of the recent Britain attack, several of the guard have increased their on-duty time, including the Yattering! Here are some sketches of a recent "marchings" around West Britain by our very, erm, unique defender and his encounter with Skree, drake of the Mage Tower.
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[EM News] The Prophecies Foretold, Part 3.2
Posted on Saturday, July 3, 2010, 11:56 PM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
This just in from EM Crysania on the Baja EM Website: Jacko was a sinister old man, wily and secretive. A hard life he had endured, from the days of his youth spent as a talented carpenter by day and thief by night. He had stolen more than his share of goods and even still in this aged time of life, took no remorse in relieving someone of their purse and coin. He spent his days curled up in sleep surrounded by many bags, crates and chests, laden with pillaged goods, and his nights roaming the villages and dungeons. He would slip into a house if it were open and rummage through any unlocked chests or pouches he found, taking what he wanted--which usually meant emptying the chest out. In dungeons he would wait hidden for the unwary warrior to be taken down by whatever he chose to fight and then while the warrior stood hapless as a ghost, he would loot any treasure remaining on the corpse. Any that knew him, had no kind words to say of him. It had never been proven that Jacko was a thief. Many thought he was quite mad, just a mean crotchety old crazy man to those that did come in contact with him. Jacko cared not in the least what others thought of him, for they spoke partly in truth, he was not the same man as he was before the night in which he had encountered the old gargoyle in the Abyss. Given the responsibility of keeping a map fragment safe, he had driven himself to near madness thinking what evil the map must hold truth to, and how he thought others were always trying to steal it. He had heard word of the Gargoyle, Beh-lem, who was trying to find the map fragments given to the 4 many years ago. Two were reported to have been found so far. “Bah, if they think they ginna gets me piece o tha map that easy, they gots another thought comin’ ” He snarled. “They gonna have to prove they well worth it and be the right ones to get it” Jacko was sure he had covered his tracks well. Not many knew of him now, and less knew where he took his slumber. “Twill be a hard task trackin these old bones down”, he snarled. ” I trusts no one... not even you, you mangy mutt!” he said as he looked down at the cur dog lying at his feet. The dog looked up at his master with a knowing look in his eyes. As he sat preparing for his nightly venture into the villages while the townsfolk slept, Jacko looked down at the dog and a small smile tipped the corners of his mouth. Adjusting the worn collar around the dogs neck, and scratching the dog behind the ears, Jacko laughed softly. ”Come Scamp, let's be on our way, We ‘ave alot to do tonight, and I not be talkin no thiefin either.” he said to the dog. ”Let’s jest see ‘ow hard we can make it for them folk to find us!” he cackled. Looking at his master, Scamp rose to his four feet, shook himself, stretched, and then followed Jacko out the door into darkness……
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Found in the Founders, Foundation
Posted on Saturday, July 3, 2010, 7:17 PM EDT by Nexus (Chesapeake)
By now everyone knows Castle Britannia is home to some rather unique guards, they dress quite differently. They are reputed to have been hired by our Event Moderators to be Queen Dawns personal guard, the best of the best, surpassing the skill and discipline of the Royal Guard, and with good reason. Already some of the more, well shady members of Britannian society have attempted to bribe the guard into allowing access to the new excavation in hopes of finding out what treasures lie hidden within the very foundation of the Castle. Luckily, Mesanna was there to remind them of their duty. Thank you Mesanna! Some nights later people from all across the realm were requested by Her Majesty Queen Dawn to assemble in the Throne Room to witness the recovery of a mysterious artifact from the hidden chamber. Upon arrival at the Castle, I saw only Andrea Kildare, Royal Surveyor. But it wasn't long before Queen Dawn herself arrived and began to tell the assembled parties about the recovery mission. Andrea Kildare: We've done it! Queen Dawn: Oh! Queen Dawn: You have? Queen Dawn: This is tremendous news! Andrea Kildare: we've broken through, just as you believed! Queen Dawn: I trust Sherry's instructions were clear? Andrea Kildare: very! it was just where she said Queen Dawn: Excellent! Queen Dawn: looks to the crowd Queen Dawn: Citizens of Britannia! Queen Dawn: Welcome! Queen Dawn: Tonight we stand on the brink of a great discovery! Queen Dawn: Just as we had thought, the discovery made by Sherry the Mouse has proven to be one of great Queen Dawn: Interest and an item of great importance! Queen Dawn: Through the efforts of the Royal Surveyor Queen Dawn: Again, a thanks Andrea Queen Dawn: And her team of recovery specialists Andrea Kildare: smiles with pleasure Queen Dawn: We have broken through the wall and now stand prepared to recover it! Queen Dawn: Andrea, are you ready to finish this great search and recover the item? Andrea Kildare: It would be my great honor Your Majesty Queen Dawn: Excellent Queen Dawn: Take them, and this communication crystal Queen Dawn: hands her parchment and a crystal Queen Dawn: This will allow you to communicate with us while you enter the cavern Queen Dawn: Whenever you are ready! Queen Dawn: Hmm Queen Dawn: taps the crystal Queen Dawn: speaks into the crystal Queen Dawn: Can you hear me? Queen Dawn: Are we transmitting? Queen Dawn: taps the crystal Andrea Kildare: moves slowly through the darkness Queen Dawn: Can you see anything? Queen Dawn: Andrea? Andrea Kildare: moves slowly thru the darkness Queen Dawn: Can you hear us? Queen Dawn: Do you see anything? Andrea Kildare: Your Majesty...... Andrea Kildare: I believe..... Queen Dawn: Yes! Yes! We are here! Queen Dawn: Excellent! Andrea Kildare: a faint glow..... Queen Dawn: Yes! That must be it! Andrea Kildare: reaches out for a tattered bag Andrea Kildare: stretches her arm completely out Andrea Kildare: I can touch it Your Majesty.... Andrea Kildare: I almost...... Andrea Kildare: THERE! Andrea Kildare: I have it! Queen Dawn: Be careful Andrea! Andrea Kildare: inches out backwards slowly Andrea Kildare: I'm bringing it out Your Majesty Queen Dawn: Careful now! Queen Dawn: Fine work Andrea! Andrea Kildare: brushes off the dust and bows Andrea Kildare: Your Majesty Andrea Kildare: hands the tattered bag to Queen Dawn Queen Dawn: accepts it Queen Dawn: Yes! This is it! Queen Dawn: slowly peels off the bag Queen Dawn: Andrea Kildare, our Royal Surveyor has done us proud this eve! Queen Dawn: She has recovered a most powerful crystal! One of great historical value! Queen Dawn: I shall see that the Crystal is put on display Queen Dawn: Once a secure case can be built to show it here in the Throne Room Queen Dawn: The Elite Guards shall also see that no intruders make their way into the cavern Queen Dawn: Thank you for being witness to this even tonight fellow Britannians! Queen Dawn: Ahh! I see the provisions from the Illusionist Guild have arrived! Queen Dawn: Long Live Britannia! Queen Dawn: I must see the crystal is secured, Andrea thank you again for your service Queen Dawn: Let us rejoice! Good evening everyone! Andrea Kildare: Please call should you need us again Your Majesty Queen Dawn: smiles warmly Queen Dawn: waves With that the room burst full of fireworks from the Illusionist Guilds box of tricks that was delivered, and the people were dismissed. As a memento of the occasion those in attendance and the latecomers where allowed to take a new magical item from the box for their own. The Staff of Sparks. Whispers say that if left overnight the magic of this item will recharge, and unlike the various fireworks wands that have been given to the citizens over the years this staff shoots off multiple bursts at once. In addition I have it on good authority that those wishing to receive the Staff of Sparks will have until July 5th to do so. For those interested the Mysterious Crystal that was recovered has been set up on display and is being guarded by Her Majesty's personal guard. __________________ Thanks go to: Lord Gareth for Additional Images
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Official Very-Very Special Non-Event Entries & Winners Announced!
Posted on Saturday, July 3, 2010, 1:11 PM EDT by Andrasta (Atlantic)
Official Very-Very Special Non-Event Entries! Entry #1 Trammel Facet "North Vesper Shrine" Entry #2 Felucca Facet "Melisande's Fermentation Factory" Entry #3 Felucca Facet "TDT Vineyard & Winery" Entry #4 Trammel Facet "CONDEMNED - Enter At Your Own Risk!" Entry #5 Felucca Facet "TDT Grand Central Craft Station & Supply House" All Entries have been documented and posted here for everyone to view. A Runebook with Entry locations can be found at: Red & Purple Event Hall, Mystic Garden Goodman's Library If you would like a first hand look, I would recommend going to see them as the pictures do not do them all justice. Winners will be announced Saturday, July 3rd, 2010 at 3:00 pm EST. Official Very-Very Special Non-Event Winners Announced! First, I would like to thank all the fine people that took a little time out of their busy day to enter our contest. We have never sponsored such a thing before in the mall’s 9 years. Second… Even though only 5 people entered the contest, it didn’t make the judging any easier. I’m both a little disappointed we didn’t have more entries… and a little relived at the same time, because it would have made the judging even harder I’m sure. Trust me… it was extremely hard. Not just for me, but the 3 of us judging. Each house had it's own merits and it's own issues. What's so wonderful is the time and care people take with the custom house options we have available. It really makes we wish we had a permanent area to share our houses with everyone… even as time passes on and those owners retire into the mist. Never the less, with 10 prizes and 5 entries… as a extra bonus, we will add just a little more to the 3rd place winners. We can't really do that with the first to prizes because they are so tasty alone. In addition to the Lady Bug, add in a bonus 2 million gold, each. Each winner will also get a little crafted gold statue, if they dare to display it with their houses. I would like to thank the 2 other judges, that also helped with prizes: Lady Kero, owner - Mystic Gardens. Andrasta, owner - Goodman's Rune Library Also thanks to Buddy, of the R&P Plant Shop & the NEW Hanging Gardens of Luna mall. WINNERS: First Prize - Eleventh Year Collection, MASTER Token. "CONDEMNED - Enter At Your Own Risk!" Second Prize - Legacy Token. "Melisande's Fermentation Factory" Third Prize (3x max) – Green or Red Lady Bug. PLUS 2 million gold bonus. 3.1 "TDT Vineyard & Winery" 3.2 "TDT Grand Central Craft Station & Supply House" 3.3 "North Vesper Shrine" Remember… if you want to see the houses in person, visit Goodmans, Mystic Gardens, or the Red & Purple Church of Candy. Winners: PLEASE contact me so I can deliver your prizes! Many thanks to everyone!!! Lady Frany Flame
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Siege House of the Week: Port of Umbra
Posted on Saturday, July 3, 2010, 5:58 AM EDT by IanJames (SiegePerilous)
Siege House of the Week Port of Umbra Owner Patty Pickaxe The Port of Umbra has been in existence on Siege Perilous for a number of years. Originally owned by Sloan, the house fell last year in 2009. Recognizing the historical significance and the helpfulness to the shard, Patty Pickaxe and Enigma pulled together resources and rebuilt the Port of Umbra rune library and training house. Several members of the Siege community donated items to the rebuilding. The house will soon be transferred to Kelmo who will maintain the Port of Umbra as Patty and Enigma have decided to move on from Ultima. The Port of Umbra house is located just west of the city of Umbra across the bridge: The lower level contains several useful items for Siegers. There is a rune library featuring all the treasure map locations; Important quest locations and interesting places; and towns, banks and shops There are also dye tubs available for all to use and a set of lockpicking boxes for lockpick training. The 2nd floor contains a private area, presumably for Patty's crafting The roof has a resurrection ankh. Particularly useful here on Siege I quickly looked in the mailbox to find it filled with PURPLE SHOES! Troop, you'd better reign in your shoe gnomes! Congratulations to Patty for having the Port of Umbra chosen as House of the Week. House of the Week submissions may be made by sending a Stratics PM to Ian James
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[EM News] Fun and Sparklers!
Posted on Saturday, July 3, 2010, 12:59 AM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
This just in from EM Crysania on the Baja EM Website: The Citizens of Baja are invited to a celebration for the July 4th Holiday! Come Dressed in your most Patriotic outfits, have a cold brew, and watch the fireworks! The celebration will be held at the Skara Faire Grounds July 3rd, starting at 2pm PST! Come enjoy the camaraderie and fellowship! Looking forward to seeing you there!
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The Napa BBQ Site Is Ready! Queen Dawn Finds The Crystal!
Posted on Saturday, July 3, 2010, 12:15 AM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings Fellow Britannians! Tonight was an exciting night all the way around! So much happened, I hope that I can cram it all into one story without confusing everyone. EM Sangria arrived with her usual cheer, followed by an amazing surprise visit from Mesanna, amazing for a personal reason. Thanks you guys, truly! I was both humbled and honored. And then an equally surprising announcement. Everyone give a warm welcome to our new EM, Tempest! She will be replacing EM Fiorella as EM Sangria's partner in crime.. err... event moderating. As of this evening, everyone was still able to head to the Counselor's Hall in Britain and click the yellow statue to receive a greeting sash from EM Tempest. I wouldn't wait too long, I am unsure as to how long it will remain active. After some friendly banter about what events we would like to see or items we would like to receive, we followed the EM's to the BBQ beach and were met with another surprise. A very lovely Coconut Palm, that will continue to drop a Fireworks staff for the remainder of the weekend! This staff will recharge so if you run out of fireworks, give it a day and you can once again fire at will. After everyone played a bit with the new toy, we set about decorating our picnic area. Everyone tossed stuff down left and right, moved it and turned it, as EM Sangria ran around locking and unlocking with glee. Deeded items were placed, axed, and placed again. It was most definitely one of the lighter moments we've all spent together. Just joking and planning it all out. It was great fun to watch it unfold and it gave everyone time to chat with our newest EM whose locking powers had yet to develop. As the last touches were being thrown out, our party was interrupted by Bob, The Royal Herald. He marched to the middle of our camp and declared for all of us to assemble. Being members of the Royal Guard, each of us, we did as we were commanded. After informing us that Queen Dawn was digging out the chamber that Sherry The Mouse had discovered, we all rushed to Castle Britain and poured into the throne room. There stood Queen Dawn, blinking in surprise, amidst the dust and debris. If Walden did indeed find the crystal, I'm not entirely certain that it should have been removed from the security of the wall. Especially considering we know so little about it. Couple that with all the new elements in our land. The whispers of Minax and her ties to the recent Ricardo affair. The strange warriors, The Bane Chosen, attacking the Ophidians. New creatures appearing from the sulfur in The Abyss. Though I have faith in our Queen, I worry of what the future holds. Queen Dawn spoke of having the artifact cleaned, examined, and set up in the throne room. When I went later to check, she had indeed put it up on display, surrounding it with her own special guardsmen. I hope that they alone can keep it safe. Weary from a day spent digging into the stone wall, she asked if she could join us back at the beach to relax and enjoy the company of her fellow citizens. We all quickly agreed and set to escort her safely to the site. Bob, once again interrupted, declaring our location unsafe. This gave several of us something to chuckle at. We're the Royal Guard. What are we for, if not the protect our Queen? The remainder of the evening was spent chatting, drinking, even dancing! We spoke of upcoming events, ideas for future events, and just enjoyed the time getting better acquainted with the EM's. For those that missed it, it was great fun! Stay tuned, things are going to start churning soon, who knows what we have waiting for us in the future! Best Gaming Wishes, Salya Sin
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UOGuide's First Newsletter is here!
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 11:12 PM EDT by Watchertoo (CommunityNews)
The first UOGuide newsletter for June has been sent out. It was a lot of work but we are proud of the results. Contents UOGuide 4th Anniversary message In the Shadow of Virtue Event Info Featured Updates for June New Community Features on UOGuide Classic Custom House Design Contest View the full newsletter at: UOGuide.com/UOGuide:Newsletter June 2010 We are looking for feedback on how to improve the next edition, let us know your thoughts. You can also send in your ideas for a newsletter name. The winning entry gets 5 million gold on their shard. If you haven't already, be sure to sign up to receive the next one. Newsletter subscribers may get access to exclusive content in the future, such as contests.
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All Shard Tavern Night, Tuesday 6PM PST
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 10:53 PM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
Local Visitors: * From the Shrine of Justice, in Trammel, head northwest around Justice Lake and follow the coastline. * Continue past the distillery up the southern coast. You’ll find the Golden Brew on Candelabra Point. Shard Visitors: * Take your favorite moongate to the city of Luna. Don’t forget to skill in magery! * In Luna, head to the northwest corner of the city to a marble building called the Baja Welcome Brigade Community Center. * (Look for the “Hiya” on the roof–thanks Baja Elladan!) * Inside the Community Center, on your right, is a rune to the Golden Brew.
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A... Bar... Room... What? (recap)
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 10:51 PM EDT by Salya Sin (NapaValley)
Greetings Fellow Britannians! Last night, well, what can I say about last nights Bar Room Brawl? Despite the EM's repeated attempts to please the Feluccan crowd, none of them really came to fight. Ok, let me put that another way. Those who did show, did not come to fight one another. They came as a group, with a plan, and several large pets expecting to mop up Blues and sweep up opposing Faction members. Who were these members of the Feluccan community? Let's see if I can remember... oh wait... I wrote it down. Smelly Feet, Darklust, Heinz von Weez, A Dog, A Impulsive Mom, and Midori. Yes, that is six COM members. They came with three non-bonded Greater Dragons, and two non-bonded Bane Dragons. The pets they camped all along the entrance hall, then they gathered around the throne so that A Impusive Mom could sit for the greater part of an hour and win the King of the Bar Room Brawl title. Just like that. One player sat, the others stood around talking about their PvP prowess. harping about the other members of the community who did not show up, and barely containing their ire of the “no spell” zone they were forced to stand in. Oh wait... then there was the reveal and kill the reporter game for a bit. Much thanks for the “going Chicken” information I received after denying seven murder counts. That's my new trick, go to Fel as a dead chicken. When Sangria asked them, in surprise, if they planned on just letting their Faction-mate have the title? A resounding “YES!” was their reply. They didn't come to fight each other, they came to fight other PvPers. They never attack their own Faction, not even to practice I guess. After the title was “awarded” one member cheered! Oh, apparently I also lost. All caps on that one. Oh, and in case you missed it the first time I said it, because I guess the individual thought I did, I lost. Later, Sangria revealed the hidden objects scattered about. Goblets and Mugs hidden in the skeletons leading into the bar and the crates carrying exploding potions of the conflagration kind. One member left and returned with a lockpick and some skill. No one challenged their right to loot it all. After everyone had left, I was allowed to live. I suppose I should say thanks, as I did get to witness a very humorous game of chess, err, checkers between EM Sangria and Smelly Feet. And I didn't even have to cluck to do it. Best Gaming Wishes, Salya Sin
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In the Shadow of Virtue - Lost and Found, Part 1 through 4
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 7:44 PM EDT by Watchertoo (QuestandEventNews)
Posted to uoherald.com's In the Shadow of Virtue - Lost & Found, Part 1 Amber Turner 26 Feb 2010 15:59:49 EST The orginal article can be read here. Sherry’s whiskers shivered with anticipation as she crept between the aging stones of the castle. She’d suspected for quite some time that something lay behind the oddly foreshortened wall of the throne room, but it wasn’t until recently that she’d been able to find a place where the stones at the base were weakened enough to force a way through. Clearing away the crumbled stone had taken several tail-wrenching trips until a few of the castle servants began offering helpful hands. The end result was a new mouse hole and a dust coated Sherry but no amount of debris in her fur could detract from the thrill of discovery: soon she would be where no mouse had been before! The air was close; chokingly full of dust and heavy with time. As she pulled herself through the tight confines of the hole and into the chamber beyond Sherry blinked in surprise. The area was faintly illuminated! Nervously casting about for the source of the glow, Sherry fastened her gaze upon a small bundle of what appeared to be silk. The source of the illumination was coming from within. Gingerly Sherry extended a claw to prod at the dusty fabric only to recoil with a startled squeak as the aging cloth parted and tore, disintegrating to reveal a strange translucent shape. Tail in claw, Sherry edged closer to investigate… In the Shadow of Virtue - Lost and Found, Part 2 Mark Steelman 13 Apr 2010 16:21:05 EST Original article can be read here. Captain Avery stood before Queen Dawn at attention, even though with Lord Francesco dead he wasn’t technically a member of any militia. Old habits from old identities die hard, thought Sherry. A few moments earlier, Captain Avery had entered the chamber and found Queen Dawn and Dexter the Mage in an animated debate. He didn’t seem to notice Sherry the mouse, with whom they had also been speaking, because she was under the edge of the sofa by one of the legs. All three of them had stood as he entered the room; their shame in his presence was palpable. “Oh, I’m sorry to interrupt, your highness. I will come back later.” “Please come in. We are discussing something that concerns you.” said Dawn, almost apologetically. “Yes, your highness.” And thus he had sprung to attention. “At ease, Captain.” Dawn’s usual verve was returning and she smirked. “This isn’t an inspection.” She extended her hand to him to welcome him. Avery stepped forward, took her hand and bowed until his forehead touched the back of it. Well, at least he managed not to salute her again, Sherry thought. The queen blushed at his gallant, if awkward, gesture. “I trust that your accommodations here at the castle have been acceptable?” she fumbled. “Yes your highness, it is far above what I am accustomed to.” Avery said with a pleasant smile. He quickly added, “I meant to refer to when I was living in the barracks of Lord Francesco, of course.” Wow, thought Sherry, Now I bet Dawn and Dexter wish they were hiding under the sofa…. Avery is truly a remarkable man to resist bitterness after so much hardship, Sherry thought to herself. Eight months ago, after a distinguished military career, Avery had been framed by Casca for the murder of the royal council and thrown in Yew Prison pending execution. Only recently had he been absolved of the crime and released. It seemed that with all that had happened he had simply been forgotten. In an obvious attempt to say, “I’m really really really sorry we accidently left you in prison for eight months for a crime you didn’t commit,” Queen Dawn had made Avery her personal guest at the castle. Prison has changed him, thought Sherry. He seems more serene now. In earlier times when Sherry’d seen him in the castle, he was always rushing by, saluting, reporting, listening to new orders, and rushing off. Since his return from Yew, Avery spent most of his days in the gardens or out by the shore. He seemed to avoid the more bustling parts of Britain and preferred the grass and the sun and the sea. Even his clothes were more relaxed; linen shirts and soft leather boots were his uniform these days. “One of your charming tales led Sherry to make an important discovery.” Sherry noted that Dawn was becoming skilled at recovering from awkward social moments. It must come with practice. Sherry smiled to herself as she recalled the tale that had begun her quest. Avery certainly can do a spot-on imitation of Ricardo, she mused. Well, I suppose they spent enough time together in prison. In her mind, Sherry could see Avery hunched over, one eye wide, the other squinted, his fingers waving near his head to resemble Ricardo’s shaggy and disheveled hair. “Lord British’s Vault is a place of legend among us thieves! It contains expensive things, things what have the added value of belonging to Lord British himself! Among its treasures be items such as The Crystal of Duplicity; the very one which Lord British took from Minax when she infiltrated Trammel…” Avery turned from Dawn and looked directly at her, “Uh-oh, Sherry, what have you been up to?” His sudden acknowledgement snapped her out of the daydream and spooked her. Was she so easy to spot? She resisted the urge to scurry farther under the sofa. “I found the vault… and the crystal.” said Sherry, holding her ground. “Surely you are joking.” Avery turned back to Dawn with a quizzical look. “That was just a mad story from a poor wretch of a man.” “Mad or no, the crystal exists, and it is here. We’re just trying to decide if we should let the cat out of the bag.” said Dawn. “And, of course… how to get the bag open.” Sherry frowned. She had asked Dawn to stop using that expression. It was inconsiderate. “But there is more,” said Dawn with a look of glee. “Tell him, Dex.” “Oh, um, ok.” said Dexter, eyeing both Dawn and Avery. “Well, my research suggests that the crystal Sherry describes matches one owned by Nystul… The Nystul… the one that split Trammel from Felucca and created a spell over Trammel to protect it…” “I know who Nystul is, Dexter.” said Avery, nodding. “The short version, please, Dex.” said Dawn impatiently. Dexter grimaced but continued, “Well, if my theory is correct, this crystal actually…” “He thinks he can use it to break the curse and restore Magincia!” blurted Dawn. “We have been trying to rebuild there for so long I can hardly believe it! Avery, I want you to lead the team to get this done.” Dexter’s mouth hung open in mid sentence and Avery’s eyes opened wide. “Oh” sputtered Avery. Then he composed himself and cast his eyes to the floor. “My dear queen, while I am deeply honored by this offer, I cannot accept. I had actually come to tell you I am leaving…. I think I need time to know I am free before I can take on the yoke of service again.” --- A short time later, Sherry and the Queen watched Avery leave the palace and walk out the gate. Sherry felt a tear come to her eye. She had briefly considered going with him. She knew she would miss him and she always felt better when he was around. She could tell that Dawn felt that way too. In the Shadow of Virtue – Lost and Found, Part 3 Mark Steelman 30 Apr 2010 18:05:00 EST The original article can be read here. Private Crag was proud of himself. He had made the big time. No more pickpocket nonsense for me. No more back alley dice games to make ends meet. I’ve finally got a legitimate job. Crag watched from his post at the door of the dimly lit room. There were only two people in this room besides himself and they were way above his pay scale. Yep, this is the big time. In the center of the room a glowing orb cast a faint blue light on a man in uniform and a woman dressed in an unusual outfit that was both revealing and intimidating. The man was a high ranking officer in the faction, Lieutenant Toadstone; the woman was no other than the dark mistress herself, Minax. Lieutenant Toadstone broke the silence, “See my mistress? It is as I told you. That which was lost has been found.” He smiled a cloying smile. “Indeed.” In the glowing crystal ball, Minax watched Queen Dawn, Dexter, Avery and Sherry the mouse as they discussed the discovery of Lord British’s vault a few weeks ago. “Toadstone, you have done well….” Minax picked up the ball from its stand and gripped it tightly. “Soon I will have my lost crystal again, and with Lord British gone there will be no one to stop me from ruling all of Trammel!” She let out a haughty laugh as she stared up at the tiny images. From his post at the doorway, Crag was impressed by the appropriateness of her laugh after making such a statement. This was exactly the kind of stuff he signed up for. “Now that we know where it is, how will we get it, my queen?” said Lieutenant Toadstone bowing. A blast of lightning threw Toadstone against the wall. “That is the wrong question, Toadstone!” Minax screeched. She immediately resumed her usual alluring posture and turned away coyly to put the crystal ball back on the stand. “Now, try again.” There was no answer. Then there was a thud. Minax turned back toward Toadstone sharply. He was lying face down on the floor in the shadow by one of the doors. Minax rolled her eyes, “Really, Toadstone, there is no reason to keep groveling. The correct question is, “YOU will get it for me.” Toadstone didn’t move. Crag watched Minax cross the room and as she bent over Toadstone he thought to himself, Being ignored has its privileges. Then the seriousness of the situation struck him and his attention snapped back to the moment. Minax was examining something. It looked like the peg of the coat rack had broken off the wall and was sticking out of the Lieutenant’s back. Minax pulled her hand back quickly and curled her lip in disgust. The disgust quickly turned to annoyance. She stood up and looked around to see if anyone had noticed what happened. The lone witness was Crag. As she stood over Toadstone’s body looking at Private Crag though her thick mascara, Minax smiled at Crag the way a swamp dragon smiles at a bogling. “What is your name, guard?” “Crag, mistress.” Private Crag knew what being the lone witness to an embarrassing situation could mean and was trying to decide if he could run fast enough to escape Toadstone’s fate. “Lieutenant Toadstone just left for Magincia to spy on the Council of Mages; he won’t be back for several days…. Do we have an understanding?” “Yes mistress. Would you like me to dispose of the body?” Minax smiled a big red smile, her large teeth glistening. “You are doing well in your new position as Lieutenant... but no.” With a casual gesture, Minax opened a rune gate and with another blast of lightning she sent the late Lieutenant Toadstone flying through it. Crag gulped. “Would you like me to find out how to get your crystal back?” “An excellent idea, Lieutenant Crag. How do you plan on doing that?” Minax was now standing right in front of him and her strange perfume was muddling his mind. Crag’s years in the back streets of Britain made him good on his feet. Hopefully, they made him good enough to survive his new promotion. “Umm… I was planning to go to the port of Cove… and err… buy some information.” Minax stared him in the eyes for a moment as if she were searching for something. Then she straightened her back, winked at Crag, and turned away to leave. “Do you need money, Lieutenant?” Crag was relieved that his first meeting with Minax was going so well and that it was ending, but it was not over yet, her spell casting hand was still glowing. He quickly checked to see that the wall behind him was flat and smooth. “No mistress, I was planning to steal something for bribes.” Minax stopped, turned to Crag with a big, dangerous smile. “Good answer, Lieutenant. I knew I picked the right man for the job.” She winked again, “Now, if you really want to impress me, steal the chest Sir Geoffrey was using a few weeks ago to bribe those mercenaries in Britain. That will show these do-gooders.” “Yes ma’am.” Crag watched breathlessly as Minax passed the doorway, turned, and disappeared down the hall. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly to make sure she wouldn’t hear. Well, he thought, it looks like being lieutenant is going to be a whole lot like being a kid in Buc’s Den. That’s fine; field work suits me better anyway. These stone floors in Minax’s secret fortress are killing my back. In the Shadow of Virtue -Lost & Found, Part 4 *By Amber Turner* 01 Jul 2010 17:59:52 The original article can be read on UOHerald. Sherry cautiously inched her way across the throne room beneath the unwavering stare of the Queen’s Elite Guard. With the sheer amount of dust and debris in the air it was no wonder they wore masks to protect their airways. Unfortunately such common sense seemed to hold little weight among the castle staff. I don’t care what anyone says. Those masks don’t look like beards. Or fangs. This room, however, IS a horrid mess. Sherry’s whiskers twitched with amusement. Trust a human to make a mess of a mouse hole. Queen Dawn had wasted little time after hearing Sherry’s news. Frankly, Sherry saw it as a sign of Dawn’s queenly experience that she had waited at all before initiating her own personal excavation. Dawn as commander would have simply walked in and knocked down the entire wall. Dawn as Queen however had managed to sit still long enough to pay lip service to magic centric pontifications of the wise. Good thing she didn’t wait too long. The longer we leave it back here the more likely it is the tail-wrenching thing will go missing. Of course now we have a whole different nest of problems. The immediate results of Queen Dawn’s brief foray into demolition were fast becoming a public relations nightmare. Audiences had been suspended until the artifact could be retrieved and the throne room cleared of rubble. The mere presence of the Queen’s Elite Guards were causing a stir and nothing the Queen, her counselors nor Sherry herself could say seemed potent enough to stop the whispered conjectures of just what exactly was going on. Not that anyone particularly wanted to trumpet news of the discovery from the castle battlements until the crystal had been successfully retrieved, but, in Sherry’s opinion at least, the confusion was doing more damage than if they had employed that trumpeter in the first place. On top of it all someone had apparently gotten in to see Ricardo and was now spreading tales about his knowledge of the whole process. As if anyone can trust a thing that comes out of his mouth. Solitary confinement isn’t fit for man or mouse. Thankfully that breach of security was one problem that would not occur a second time. Queen Dawn’s blistering lecture on proper protocol and procedure had seen to that. Looking up at the chest-sized hole in the northern wall, Sherry smiled. The hole wasn’t really that bad of work for a first timer. A little rough around the edges but not bad. Not bad at all. Now we just have to get the blasted thing out.
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The Grand Opening of Vamp's Lair, July 4th @ 10 PM EST
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 2:39 PM EDT by Sahra Swift (Catskills)
Hello Catskills, Some news from Lady Pandora of the Children of Darkness: Many may remember the great city that once stood just east of the city of Britain in a world that was once united that we now call Felucca. Many may also remember the castle mall that once stood in the center of the city or perhaps you might remember the Blood Keep that was home to Xiled from Humanity (our sister guild) and the many wars that happened between XH and -R- before and after factions. Perhaps a thought or two might come up when we mention the many PvP tournaments that were sponsored by Vamp's Lair, usually held in the demon temple or at the city or in the dome of the sky and certainly if you remember that, you remember the very famous Catskills PvP Ladders were the grand prize was a placed tower (which in those days was really rare to acquire). Sadly, with the split of the lands, most of the RP went with it to Trammel, where it was safe and easy. We saw that city become a ghost town as RP'ers preferred to stay in Trammel. And except for the faction wars that would occasionally surround it, it was hard to keep up the RP that had for so long tied to it. Well now, Vamp's Lair is returning and we hope to make it as great if not better than before, but we need everyone to help us do that. Participation is key for the role playing community that we love to indulge in on Catskills and if we do not support it, it will dwindle and die. That's why it’s important to not only support the events that CoD will undoubtedly be hosting at VL, but also events from other guilds and their members in their towns. CoD will be a proud supporter of any of those events --- even if we must be in full "masquerade" for some of them. The irony... humans pretending to be vampires that are pretending to be humans. :) Please DO join us for the grand opening on July 4th, 10 PM EST (made it later on in the evening since it’s a holiday). You can find Vamp's Lair in between the towns of Luna and Umbra in Malas. The coordinates are 32'20 N and 1'24 E. This map below will show you exactly where to go! Safe Travels, Sahra Swift Want your news here? Send it to [email protected]!
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[EM] Evening Spelunking
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 1:04 PM EDT by Crysta (LakeSuperior)
Posted to the EM news site; This Sunday, July 4th at 8pm CST, Queen Dawn will be ordering a worker into the large hole opened up in the throne room. All are invited to join her to await the results of the worker’s exploration. If you are unfamiliar with the hole in the throne room, or the most recent piece of global fiction, catch up with it here. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE ABOVE! THE EVENT IS NOW AT 8pm CST! We had scheduled it several hours before this edit for 1pm, but some sudden issues came up requiring a time change. For those of you looking to head out and celebrate the 4th, go ahead. This is a short RP event, of which you can learn about later. Real life first. The EM site itself is here [a new link to the old website].
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Cleaning & Tidying
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 11:41 AM EDT by Petra Fyde (CommunityNews)
Ultima Online Stratics Weekly Announcement: As many readers are aware the 'news' had an unfortunate accident this week, so a fair bit of time had to be dedicated to cleaning that up. The silver lining is: Added, under the 'News and Events' heading: News Archive, a chance to look back at the news of previous months and years. Also on this week's agenda: Do you 'google' with the custom search box on our main http://uo.stratics.com page and get a whole bunch of out-of-date pages? Tidying this up has resulted in slightly in excess of 100 re-direct entries being created to forward searchers to current, accurate information. The older pages can be accessed by adding '_archive' to the file name. example: if you click the link http://uo.stratics.com/content/basics/spells.shtml you will be redirected. If you want to see the original file of that name use the url http://uo.stratics.com/content/basics/spells_archive.shtml And finally The 'pic of the week' has been updated. Mistral and Tempest remain elusive, Grim and Flurry stats are still unavailable. I'll offer a prize for this. The first person to post screen prints of Mistral and Tempest and lore gumps for those, Grim and Flurry will receive a veteran reward of their choice up to and including year 10. P.S. I've seen the pictures on uoguide - I won't pay out for copies 'borrowed' from their pages. To contribute information please email to: [email protected], [email protected] or you can just send a pm to Petra Fyde. Thank you.
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7:00pm Cove Militia Needed
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 10:53 AM EDT by Cear Dallben Dragon (Atlantic)
Seth requests that the Cove militia assemble this Friday Night at 7:00 Pm EST. The hope is to resolve the Rigor issue. BE THERE AND PREPARE TO DIE!
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UOGuide's First Newsletter Hits The Stands!
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 10:49 AM EDT by Cear Dallben Dragon (Atlantic)
The first UOGuide newsletter has been sent out. It was a lot of work but I am proud of the results. We are looking for feedback on how to improve the next edition, let us know your thoughts. You can also send in your ideas for a newsletter name. The winning entry gets 5 million gold on their shard. Contents UOGuide 4th Anniversary message In the Shadow of Virtue Event Info Featured Updates for June New Community Features on UOGuide Classic Custom House Design Contest View the full newsletter at: UOGuide Newsletter June 2010 If you haven't already, be sure to sign up to receive the next one. Newsletter subscribers may get access to exclusive content in the future, such as contests.
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[EM] Join Queen Dawn in the Throne Room, Saturday, July 3rd, 7 p.m. EST
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 7:38 AM EDT by Sahra Swift (Catskills)
Hello Catskills, EM Kasaven has posted some news on the Catskills EM Website: Something is being uncovered by the excavators in Castle British Throne Room, and Dawn wants all the citizens of Britannia to be part of it! Meet us at 7 p.m. EST in the Throne Room on Saturday the 3rd. Also, a happy Canada Day to everyone north of us, and a preemptive Happy 4th of July to all those here in the states. Don't forget: If you attend and have news from this meeting, you can always share your report with everybody by sending it to [email protected] Safe Travels, Sahra Swift
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Cove Militia Requested Tonight
Posted on Friday, July 2, 2010, 6:18 AM EDT by Fallon Valor (Atlantic)
Atlantic--Seth has made plans to assemble the Cove Militia this evening, 2 July 2010, according to a statement released by EM Nestor. The purpose of this meeting, says Nestor, "is to resolve the Rigor issue." Malitia members are asked to arrive at 7:00 PM EST.
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[EM-R] Come claim your staff!
Posted on Thursday, July 1, 2010, 7:30 PM EDT by Crysta (LakeSuperior)
[The R is for "Related". R takes less space] The end of the previously posted event for tonight arrived at a statue which, when used, gives out a free Staff of Independence; a fireworks staff that sets off a ton of fireworks at once and apparently will recharge overnight. (it usually has 100 charges.. mine is just empty) The statue is located inside this house against the back wall, at the north end of the farm fields west of Britain: Sextant coordinates: 6', 64"N, 12', 22"W The statue should only be up til sometime on the 5th, so be sure to stop in and get your staff while you can! Oh, and... They said "and early Independence Day!" as well, but I missed the shot. Oh well. :(
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Player Memorial Stones
Posted on Thursday, July 1, 2010, 6:33 PM EDT by Andrasta (Atlantic)
Player Memorial Stones Written by Nestor Wednesday, 23 June 2010 With the publish 66 there is two new ways to setup a player memorial. Prime Evil Lich Champion drops 6 different styles of headstones. These can be engraved with the Statuette Engraving Tool and be locked down in your houses for a private memorial. Players may request an EM-placed memorial stone. This will cover the EM-placed memorial stones. If you are interested in having a memorial placed to honor a player in a public place, please e-mail EM Nestor with a request. We will work with you to accommodate your request. The request will be sent to Mesanna for final approval. Please be sure to include this information with the request: Name of the player the memorial is for. Location you'd like the memorial to be placed at. (Subject to approval) The memorial may have 5 lines of text entered. (Subject to approval) Line 1 Line 2 Line 3 Line 4 Line 5 Any other decoration surrounding the memorial? (We can lock down flowers/plants provided by players. If any other items, it will be subject to approval first.) The date you'd like this to be placed (Subject to approval) Please be courteous and respectful with your requests. Any offensive or demeaning messages on the memorial will be denied. There are some samples of memorial stones on the first floor of the EM Reward hall.
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4th of July Celebrations & Lost and Found - Part 4
Posted on Thursday, July 1, 2010, 6:22 PM EDT by Watchertoo (GeneralNews)
Posted to uoherald.com's 4th of July Celebrations & Lost and Found - Part 4! James Nichols 01 Jul 2010 17:59:52 EST Good evening! Here in the United States, the Fourth of July is an important holiday and marks the founding of our country. Today many of us celebrate our independence with massive BBQ's, fireworks, and parades with our friends and family. This weekend we invite you to join our virtual family and celebrate the American way with Event Moderators running events across all shards, all weekend long - so check out the new fireworks, see the ceremonies, and join in the celebration with your friends! As an added bonus you'll find the latest chapter of Lost and Found below - the adventure continues, don't miss it! From all of us have a safe, happy, and FUN holiday weekend, - The Ultima Online Team (Who would also like to wish our Canadian players a happy Canada Day today!) Lost & Found - Part 4 By Amber Turner Sherry cautiously inched her way across the throne room beneath the unwavering stare of the Queen’s Elite Guard. With the sheer amount of dust and debris in the air it was no wonder they wore masks to protect their airways. Unfortunately such common sense seemed to hold little weight among the castle staff. I don’t care what anyone says. Those masks don’t look like beards. Or fangs. This room, however, IS a horrid mess. Sherry’s whiskers twitched with amusement. Trust a human to make a mess of a mouse hole. Queen Dawn had wasted little time after hearing Sherry’s news. Frankly, Sherry saw it as a sign of Dawn’s queenly experience that she had waited at all before initiating her own personal excavation. Dawn as commander would have simply walked in and knocked down the entire wall. Dawn as Queen however had managed to sit still long enough to pay lip service to magic centric pontifications of the wise. Good thing she didn’t wait too long. The longer we leave it back here the more likely it is the tail-wrenching thing will go missing. Of course now we have a whole different nest of problems. The immediate results of Queen Dawn’s brief foray into demolition were fast becoming a public relations nightmare. Audiences had been suspended until the artifact could be retrieved and the throne room cleared of rubble. The mere presence of the Queen’s Elite Guards were causing a stir and nothing the Queen, her counselors nor Sherry herself could say seemed potent enough to stop the whispered conjectures of just what exactly was going on. Not that anyone particularly wanted to trumpet news of the discovery from the castle battlements until the crystal had been successfully retrieved, but, in Sherry’s opinion at least, the confusion was doing more damage than if they had employed that trumpeter in the first place. On top of it all someone had apparently gotten in to see Ricardo and was now spreading tales about his knowledge of the whole process. As if anyone can trust a thing that comes out of his mouth. Solitary confinement isn’t fit for man or mouse. Thankfully that breach of security was one problem that would not occur a second time. Queen Dawn’s blistering lecture on proper protocol and procedure had seen to that. Looking up at the chest-sized hole in the northern wall, Sherry smiled. The hole wasn’t really that bad of work for a first timer. A little rough around the edges but not bad. Not bad at all. Now we just have to get the blasted thing out.
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Queen Dawn Makes Appearance at Castle
Posted on Thursday, July 1, 2010, 5:41 PM EDT by Lady Lava (GreatLakes)
. .. ... Queen Dawn Makes Appearance at Castle .. . A large group gathered in Brit Castle as a rumor spread about town that the Queen would address the people. The beloved Sherry the Mouse arrived informing the crowd that the Queen was attending other important issues but would arrive shortly. As the crowd waited Sherry told tales at which she is most good at. The Queen did indeed arrive and addressed the people dressed in glowing adornment. We learned of a vault and a crystal that will help to return Magincia back to its original state of glory. The Queen summoned the Royal Mining Expert to help in this task and indeed the crystal was recovered! A display case will be made to display this crystal for all to view. .......to be continued.
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[EM News] Lost and Found
Posted on Thursday, July 1, 2010, 3:30 PM EDT by Brytt (Baja)
This just in from the Baja EM Website: Title: Lost and found Location: Brit Throne Room Description: Queen Dawn has summoned the citizens to witness a momentous occasion. Start Time: 20:30 Date: 2010-07-02 Could this have anything to do with the mysterious tunnel which recently appeared in the throne room? Come and see!
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The Search for Caryn
Posted on Thursday, July 1, 2010, 7:44 AM EDT by falseprophet (Origin)
The Search for Caryn Upon hearing of Taryn’s plea for help, I set out for the Pirate’s Plunder in Buc’s den. Finding Andrew behind the bar, I sat down and began to question him about Captain Barbossa. Andrew began Telling me of a cruel and vicious assault on a young man named Cervantes, who had tried to steal an artifact from Barbossa. Andrew told me how Barbossa had chained the young man to a wall, and left him there to die, threatening death to any who helped him. He told me that no one was willing to stand up to Barbossa to save the young man, not even his best friend or sister. I asked where I might find his Friend, and Andrew mentioned he might be found in Trinsic, drinking his sorrows away. Hurrying on to Trinsic my first thought was that this young man would be at the Keg and Anchor, but all that I found was a note from Otis Campbell, saying he was at the beach, fishing. I grabbed a couple of ales, and headed toward the shore of Trinsic. After a few minutes of searching, I found Otis wiling away the time fishing for anything that would take his bait. As I approached Otis I could tell that he was a man with many troubles. I offered Otis some ale, which he quickly took and started to drink. He then told me of happier times, when he and his friend Cervantes would fish together, but he said that was before Cervantes listened to “that stupid stargazer.” Perplexed, I asked him what he meant, he replied “The crazy guy with a Telescope”. After this, Otis began sobbing and saying he didn’t want to remember anymore so I set out for the only place a crazy man had a Telescope in this great land. I then rushed to the telescope in Moonglow, looking for anyone who might fit the description that Otis had given me. I there met a man named Selcius, who appeared to be the man I was looking for. I asked Selcius if he knew of Cervantes, and he replied, “Yes, Yes he was a stubborn young man, who wouldn’t listen to reason.” He went on to say that he had warned Cervantes to be careful, that the stars had to be perfectly aligned, or they would fail. I then asked Selcius if he knew what had happened to Cervantes’ sister, he told me that Leslie was living alone on the outskirts of Yew. Knowing that I was running out of time, I decided to forgo the public moongate system and pulled out my rune to Heartwood (all Elves keep one handy) and called upon the ancient powers of the Paladin, to journey there. After a little searching, I came upon the cottage that Selcius had described to me. I knocked on the door of the small but well kept cottage, and was greeted by a lovely young lady, busy with her chores. She explained to me that she didn’t want any visitors, that she was alone, always alone since the bad times. Asking her about these bad times, she began telling me of the attempted theft of the Artifact by her brother, and his subsequent death. She then went on to talk of Darlene and her children, but was very distraught and becoming incoherent. I asked her about Darlene, and she began talking of secrets and the Artifact. I asked of the Artifact and she said that Darlene may have succeeded in finding it. I tried to question her further, but she said that she had said too much and wouldn’t say one more thing, “Well maybe one more thing, when you leave could you take those muddy boots with you?” Looking down, my heart sank, and I began to tremble. The boots that Leslie wanted me to remove, I recognized at once as Caryns. Knowing I was short of time I left the boots where they lay, and rushed off to Britain to find Taryn and tell her of what I had found, hoping it wasn’t too late. After my Journey across Sosaria, I arrived at the Councilors hall, just in time. There were already many people there waiting on Taryn. To pass the time I conversed with people and handed out some cookies, but on the inside, I was fighting a losing battle with impatience. Soon enough Taryn arrived and asked if anyone had found anything out, to which I replied “Yes I have found out a few things, and I fear for Caryn!” Not wanting to waste time I cut to the point and, I Told Taryn that I had talked to Andrew, Otis, Selcius, and then Leslie. And at the end of my short conversation with Leslie that she had asked me to take the boots. I told Taryn that I recognized the boots as Caryns, and at that point I feared Taryn would collapse. After recovering, Taryn Told us she remembered something about Star alignment tools, and the Stars aligning, and that she needed to take us back to the beginning of the journey. But before we set out she said she needed to show us something, and laid a note on the ground before us After we had studied the note, she opened up a portal and asked us to follow her. When we arrived we were back in the cave where we found her mother’s journal, staring at a wall blocking our passage. Looking closely at the wall, we noticed that a control panel had been installed since our last visit, so many of us took turns attempting to decipher its code. After many failed attempts, (and many painful electrocutions) it was finally activated, and the wall fell before us. As we ventured forward, we were attacked by the denizens of the cave, and we quickly engaged the lost miners, and the very winds themselves, in a battle for our lives! The battle was long and arduous, as the miners were surrounded by a field that reflected back as much damage as we dealt them. The ground was littered with our corpses, but thanks to quick thinking, Taryn summoned the Healers (where does she find them so quickly?), and the Mages among us struggled to keep us healed and alive. Through cooperation, and pure Stubbornness, we finally felled the last foe, and began searching the cave. Before long the second piece to the artifact was found. At almost the same time there was news that Caryn was found being held prisoner in another part of the cave. We all hurried to the spot and were confronted by Barbossa’s goons, and Barbossa himself. Taryn and Barbossa began speaking, and their conversation I will print as it happened: Taryn Sullivan: Barbossa! Captain Barbossa: Well, well, well, I see you found my little surprise, pretty isn't she? caresses Caryn's cheek Taryn Sullivan: looks on in horror You fiend! Get away from her! What have you done!? Captain Barbossa: O now, now little girl, you'll get your chance to "reunite" with your precious sister. Of course, nothing in this world is free is it now? You want your sister, well, my dear, there's something I want in trade. I believe you have some pieces to a certain Artifact? An item your dear poppa stole from me and I think I've been more than patient waiting on its return. Taryn Sullivan: glares at Barbossa Since you brought Caryn here, you obviously know where at least some of the pieces are. Why don't you just recover it yourself? Why should we risk our lives and why take my sister? Why do you even want this! It's apparent you already control at least part of the seas and the sea creatures! Captain Barbossa: scowls darkly leaning closer to Taryn you stupid little fool! You don't even know what it does do you? You think I should be content to control the seas when I can control the land AND the seas? laughs Just take a moment and think about it my dear. Harnessing the power of the very winds, now how on earth could that be any advantage? his voice dripping with sarcasm your precious Queen may have convinced you all to rescue her wonderful cargo but if I controlled the very winds, I have little doubt she'd pay my price quickly. No ship could come close to anything I held unless I allowed it! Think! If I controlled the winds, I would have power over the crops in the fields...People's homes... every inch and corner of the lands! Do you not think I could have anything I wanted just for the asking? Taryn Sullivan: Then why all the subterfuge? Why take Caryn? Why hold her here? Why not just kill us and take the damn thing! Captain Barbossa: grabs Taryn by the wrist pulling her closer don’t you think I'd have already done that if I could? pushes Taryn away recovering himself Your sainted mother saw to it that only one of her blood could find the pieces much less touch them unless handed over willingly to another. Of course, I only found that out after.... hands Taryn a tattered book as I said, I've been more than patient all these years waiting on the two of you to grow up. sneers Taryn Sullivan: looks up slowly from the book with tears in her eyes So Caryn is the only family I have left and you want me to trade the lives of everyone for her life... Captain Barbossa: Well, perhaps you aren't such a little fool after all smirks But, I know how hard a choice this is for you. Never let it be said that I'm completely unfeeling. I'll make you a deal, and I think you'll find this more than fair. I won't ask for anything this evening. O no! I'll just hold onto Caryn here a bit and, once you find the last piece, you can give me your answer. Is that not more than fair? As I said, I’m a very patient man! attempts a suave smile Well! Now that that's all settled, I'm sure you have much to think about and even more to do so I'll leave you to it! pats Taryn on the head condescendingly I just know you'll make the correct choice my dear. Ta Ta for now! Taryn Sullivan: Wait! almost talking to herself what choice is this? How can I possibly choose? My sisters life or the life of every man, woman and child under the thumb of a mad man! Caryn, how can I do this? Caryn: struggles to make herself heard Taryn Sullivan: Caryn! Caryn: struggles to make herself heard Taryn Sullivan: Caryn! Caryn: Taryn, my life does not matter you must find the rest of the artifact and destroy it No one will ever have a safe moment if you don't I love you and I'm thankful for our time together But you cannot turn the artifact over to Barbossa droops from exhaustion and falls silent Taryn Sullivan: falls to her knees sobbing I've only just found my sister and now I'm being asked to trade her life for an artifact? There has to be another way! Surely someone somewhere can help... wipes her tears and faces the crowd I have to find some way to save Caryn I can't just give her up without trying There has to be a way and, if there is, I'll find it One way or another, I'll need your help more desperately than ever, all of you I'll send word, promise me you'll come looks around beseechingly before going to find something that can help looks once more at Caryn I'll find a way.... After we agreed to help Taryn, we then journeyed back to the councilor’s hall in Britain, where we were greeted by EM Faine Morgan, and EM “Buzz” Infinity. EM Faine announced that it was Buzz’s birthday, so in accordance with Origin tradition, He was forc.. err, asked to do a bar dance. Happy birthday Buzz, Hope it was a good one.
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[EM] Something just for fun…
Posted on Thursday, July 1, 2010, 4:48 AM EDT by Crysta (LakeSuperior)
Posted to the EM news site; Hey, now for something completely different!~ July First, at 8:30PM eastern (7:30 PM central) we will be doing a small just for fun random event for everyone, all I can say is that it will be ending in a bang!~ Meet at the Luna fair grounds! The EM site itself is here [a new link to the old website].
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July 2010

PART TWO ~ JUNE OBITS