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CoE answers, Nation Olympics results

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/ Issue 129 - August 2008 \___________________________________________________
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   Ask CoE Responses                                    Help CRY2 to CRY3
   WANTED - Badrol                   - Mack             Help CRY4
   Unholy Rantings                   - Beleth           Help CRY5 to CRY6

   Guild News
     Guild of Clerics                - Indira           Help CRY7 to CRY9

   Order News
     Sanctus Irae                    - Alessio          Help CRY10 to CRY12

   Nation News
     Quendi                          - Israfel          Help CRY13 to CRY14
     Khazad                          - Stoneheft        Help CRY15
     Uruk'hai                        - Klaatu           Help CRY16 
     Gralthai                        - Anshuna          Help CRY17
     Tyrrhenu                        - Farlina          Help CRY18

   Council News
     IOQC                            - Fiebin           Help CRY19

   Quest News
     July CoD Quest Results          - Fiebin           Help CRY20
     August CoD Quest                - Linda            Help CRY21
     Nations Olympics 2008           - Israfel & Fiebin Help CRY22 to CRY42

   Fun and Games
     Room of the Month               - Fiebin           Help CRY43

   Announcements and Advertisements
     Looking for New Editor                             Help CRY44
     Cry of Despair                                     Help CRY45
     Ask COE                                            Help CRY46
     Wanted - DEAD                                      Help CRY47

   Desk of the Hobbit                                   Help CRY48
   A Note from Linda                                    Help CRY49
   From Falennt's Inkwell                               Help CRY50
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/ Ask CoE Responses \_________________________________________________________
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1) The new mini-quest added to Faragut makes the game and the area alot more 
interesting. What was the impetus for the mini-quest and can we expect more 
treasure hunting in the near future?

CoE Response:
1. The Faragut mini-quest was put in as part of our on-going effort to update
areas with quests that provide some measure of challenge, but with a decent
amount of reward. We chose Faragut due to a number of complaints about staking
and botting there from mortals and felt it was time to not only enhance the
mob, but create something for explorers and treasure hunters. We will continue
to tweak and refresh areas as time and storylines allow.
 
2) We all enjoy 20-24 glory for a max turn in of X after killing and/or 
finding X things but wouldn't a wider variety of interesting quest prizes 
being rewarded be something good for the game? I.e. "free name authorization 
so long as there is no vulgarity" scroll for winning a quest. What is CoE's
stance/views/policy toward non-glory quest prizes?

CoE Response:
2. CoE is supportive of non-glory quest prizes and our Quest Council has had
a number of quests where they have requested special prizes. Generally, it
is up to the QC member and the QC heads to request a particular prize for a
particular quest, with the understanding that the prize should equal the
difficulty. In the past we have utilized free named characters (of any class
/race combination) as prizes at the reunion. We have also utilized rename
scrolls, cr scrolls, quest tokens (to get into special quests), as well as
unique equipment. Should you be interested in suggesting ideas for non-glory
prizes, please post your ideas to the mortal quest board in the room called 
'Dreams of Glory' on the second floor of town hall.

Continued...                                                          Page: 002
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/ Ask CoE Responses \_________________________________________________________
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3) Reviewing the cleric class understandably takes a long time and the mortal
community is extremely grateful to those responsible for the future revamp. 
Many mortals are also eager to find out the status of the cleric review, could
CoE give us an indication of when we can expect to cast new spells and how
clerics will be improved?

CoE Response:
3. As mentioned in our last question and answer session, the cleric project is
high on our to do list. There is no implementation date set as yet, nor are we
prepared to go into detail about how they are going to be changed. That said,
as has been mentioned in the past, we are not going to make them into a hitter
class, and I think it's safe to say they won't be tanking Seth. The path they
will take will unfold as their Gods will it.

4) I've noticed that Immortal hosted quests during some timezones are 
extremely rare (e.g. EST 6am +/- 3 hours). It's understandable that an 
Immortal is required to host the quest and cannot be expected to wake 
up at a ridiculous hour in their timezone. Another reason for the lack 
of quests during these times is that there aren't as many mortals online 
and it doesn't seem worthwhile [from the Immortal's perspective] to run 
a quest because of the work involved in making and organizing it. 
However, this makes the game alot less fun for mortals in those timezones. 
Does CoE see any quest related solutions which would alleviate the boredom 
during those timezones?

CoE Response:
4. We have a number of imms that do work primarily around reboot to 6am EST.
They do sometimes offer quests at that time. Our quest council is aware of the
issue and tries to ensure that quests are provided at different times of the
day. In the past we have offered some quests that come in at reboot and are
un-manned, so to speak. We could see more of these occuring in the future.
As was mentioned in the answer to the first question, there are also dozens
of quests offered to lowbies up to Avatar that have been put into the game
through the work of three of our hard working immortals. These are quests 
that are level specific, and enhance already installed areas.

(End)                                                                 Page: 003
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 _________________
/ WANTED - Badrol \___________________________________________________________
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   _________________________________________
0=(_________________________________________)=0
   |                     ___  __  _        /
   |    |   |  /\  |\  |  |  |   | \      |
   |    | x | :__: | \ |  |  |-  |  ;     |
   |    |/ \| |  | |  \|  |  |__ |_/      |
   |                                      |
   |    /""""""""""""""""""""""""""\      |
   |    |        ,      ,	     |      |
   |    |       /(.-""-.)\	     |      |
   |    |   | \ / =.  .= \ / |     |      |
   |    |   \( \   o\/o   / )/     |      |
   |    |    \_, '-/  \-' ,_/      |      |
   |    |      /   \__/   \        |      |
   |    |      \ \__/\__/ /        |      |
   |    |     _.\ \|--|/ /         |      |
   |    |  /`    \      /    `\    |      |
   |    .----------DEAD------------.      |
   |                                      |  
   |The Umbrageous Ruins is a place where |
   |the poor, and meek are unwelcome.     |
   |Their poverty and disease are a plague|
   |on all of the deadly world.  Recently,|
   |Badrol has been seen eating from      |
   |dumpsters, playing showtunes in the   |
   |subway for tips, and urinating without|
   |unzipping his pants.  The very        |
   |existence of this hobo is a slap in   |
   |the face of Gravoc, and as such Mack  |
   |would like to offer 5m per proof of   |
   |death, until the infidel drifter is   |
   |driven from our lands, or killed five |
   |times. Which ever is cheaper.         |
   |______________________________________|
0=(________________________________________)=0  

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 __________________________
/ Unholy Rantings - Beleth \__________________________________________________
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Travelling these lands I am witness to many armours.
 
Most are spoils of the crusades that continue, against the forces of light, 
in the battle for supremacy that exist these days. However, some that are 
brought back are armours for the front line forces of darkness.
 
So, to the rant...
 
It is a rant at creationists, craftsmen, the manufacturers of such armour,
what ever you wish to be hailed as.
 
The act of birth into the realms is such today, that there might be no
difference in the attributes of the fighters. I see a lot of change in the
inhabitants of the realms, it seems that the various breeds these days are a
lot more suited to their chosen professions.
 
Thus, in a way never seen before, the difference is now down to how these
various sides are able to equip themselves when metal meets metal.
 
I realise that the malignant occupancy of some of these armours will no doubt
leave a trace in the mark of a hex or such. I am also aware of the various
curses that might be hewn into armours of an evil persuasion.
 
However, I am sure there are ways and means around these curses.

Continued...                                                          Page: 005
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 __________________________
/ Unholy Rantings - Beleth \__________________________________________________
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Where is the dark armour that helps you move faster, be stronger, more wise
and so forth?
 
I have seen it in the armour of my enemies, it is easily sought too, and so
these craftsmen of dark faith must be able to make similar...
 
If they cannot, I would like to know why not...
 
Perhaps their task masters are too sparing with the lash!

(End)                                                                 Page: 006
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 _______________________________      
/ Guild News - Guild of Clerics \_____________________________________________
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                      Hello from your friendly Clerics!
 
The month of July has been fairly quiet in our lovely guild but I would like
to take the opportunity to wish a fellow member of GoC a Happy Birthday!
Our own Aidens celebrated his special day amongst us and the cake was grea
t!
 
For this months issue I decided to write a little quiz, so the first three
entries will receive a prize from me. Mudmail me the correct spells and you
shall win! These are all clerical spells, naturally! Have fun!
 
1. 'candussido pzn'
2. 'iuwbjg ay dies'
3. 'judicandus dies'
4. 'pzar'
5. 'ufai zzur'
6. 'ofajieuio'
7. 'yzzbrunsozgg'
8. 'oculoahpgspzcandus'
9. 'ecandusaw'
10. 'wagg uizug'

Continued...                                                          Page: 007
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/ Guild News - Guild of Clerics \_____________________________________________
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                             Get married with us!
 
Are you getting married and still looking for that perfect location?
Well look no more for we can provide just that! We'd be happy to host your
special day in our blissful chapel! Need to know how it looks? Here it is:

                              A Blissful Chapel

Mmm! The lavish scents of dehydrated roses and lavender permeate this
chapel with a blissful fragrance. Golden pews are lined perfectly to
the left and right, reflecting the sun and all the colours it produces
through a stained glass ceiling. Framed prayer scrolls are neatly placed
on the brassy walls, and between each is a glass case containing various
trinkets of love, beauty, and devotion. A casual array of freshly-cut
flowers sits comfortably upon a large altar of stone, engraved with words
of wisdom and joy.

Our own Haviland would be happy to officiate but you can of course 
choose a person to your own liking to preside over your ceremony!
Feel free to send a tell to any of the leaders if you have any further
questions, we'd be happy to answer them! <3

Continued...                                                          Page: 008
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 _______________________________      
/ Guild News - Guild of Clerics \_____________________________________________
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                                   Join us!
 
If you would like to join the Guild of Clerics, just jot down 
the following:
 
Requirements: Level 15+
Directions:   NW, 2W, 2N, E from [] 
Webpage:      perdaea.com/dirtycarrot.html
Once you read the guide (retrieved in "The Clock Chamber" by saying 
"guide", you can contact anyone with "CoC or CoC-T" in their 
title or a leader to request an interview! 
 
We hope you have a joyous August, please feel free to come by or send us
a tell if you have any questions, concerns or just would like to chat!
 
Regards, Haviland (Guild Master), Indira (First) 
Torianne (Second)

(End)                                                                 Page: 009
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 ___________________________
/ Order News - Sanctus Irae \_________________________________________________
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As summer winds on in Sanctus Irae, the city finds itself experiencing a
period of renewal.
 
With the collapse of the Barathrum and the subsequent infighting of the
lesser criminal organizations, the merchants of Irae have never been
more prosperous or, as a result, content. Their purses grow heavy with
the lack of 'taxation' at the hands of Iraenian rogues and bandits, allowing
them to import exotic merchandise such as fine liqour and fur garments.
 
The Moon Raven has come under the careful stewardship of Irae's latest
entrepreneur, a seemingly well-intending dwarf named Tarmalon, who seems
to be interested in shedding the tavern's shadier past for a more
prosperous and legitimate future.
 
The city has also seen a flood of wandering merchants and gypsies, hawking
whatever wares they have gathered, stolen, or found on their own journies
throughout the Realms, and the Inn of the Singing Rose has been privileged
to host the music of many traveling bards and minstrels.
 
The guard of Irae, under the command of Arms Master Karzak Stoneblood,
has grown slightly over the season and seen great improvements in efficiency
throughout the city, with several lesser criminals being brought to justice
in the past month.

Continued...                                                          Page: 010
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 ___________________________
/ Order News - Sanctus Irae \_________________________________________________
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But there are still sinister dealings afoot in the City of Lions.
 
Early last month, a young magician from the Valdislav Conservatory was killed
while attempting to aid the professor of illusions and countermagicks and
the owner of the Moon Raven tavern in the removal of an unwanted guest. The
guest, named Jurevicus, is rumored to have used ancient and forbidden magic
in the murder of the student. He was promptly taken into custody by the
Conservatory for interrogation.
 
Rumors surrounding this gith named Jurevicus have connected him to the
Marquis of Sanctus Irae and have whispered of his involvement in a plot to
assassinate Talisha Dracos, the current Chancellor of Valdislav.
 
Will the crime guilds continuing squabbling, ensuring the security of
Iraenian merchants for another month? Will the Moon Raven settle into
its new role and accept its new master? Is there an assassination plot
in the works? Only time shall tell. Stay alert.

Continued...                                                          Page: 011
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 ___________________________
/ Order News - Sanctus Irae \_________________________________________________
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(End)                                                                 Page: 012
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/ Nation News - Quendi \______________________________________________________
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Olympic News
Hearty congratulations are offered to the Quendi who have participated
in the 2008 Nation Olympics. Our people have performed well during 
the events and obtained glory for the Quendi in the various events.
Again, the Council and all our people would like to congratulate 
Stozzter, Tasartir, Isabeau, Cunegonde and Etain for bringing honour
to the Elven Race.
 
The Elear's Request
Elear Israfel is rather interested in the diminishing numbers of
butterflies lately on the Island. Some deeper research into the
nature and breed of these butterflies revealed something more
alarming than just a natural death toll upon migration. The Elear
have sent out missives requesting for any Quendi druid keen on
aiding him in this investigation, although druids of other races
and equally capable are also welcome to speak with him.

Continued...                                                          Page: 013
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/ Nation News - Quendi \______________________________________________________
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Strange Sightings on the Talan Yeste'
Recent visitors to Cywiel's shop, the Curwa Eldalieva, would had
heard of her speaking of a strange vision she had while looking
at the Talan Yeste' just situated south from her shop. Such a 
common place would not exactly be inhabited by a ghost but Cywiel
spoke of seeing a small elf girl, a child, dressed in pale blue
colours. The child would walk an exact ten steps down the staircase
and vanish into the heart of the Great Ash.

(From Israfel)

(End)                                                                 Page: 014
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/ Nation News - Khazad\_______________________________________________________
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The prince of the dwarves, Stoneheft Gemstone, was heard to comment
"I'm very proud of them." in reference to the Khazad Olympic Team.
We spoke with Stoneheft at Gromberd Castle about the olympics and
the dwarven team. "The dwarves got a gold medal, that's obviously
an achievement that any team can show as proof of success." said
Stoneheft "Above that, though... The dwarves were there for,
competing in and doing well in every event the olympics offered.
That's something that the whole nation can take pride in. My
crown is off and I salute the dwarven olympiads."
 
Myrr,          Hurley,        Lilcal,        Tarmalon,      Chubbs,   
Kazanskyzz,    Jaxxon,        Ashrok,        Ponda.
 
Raise your mug with your brethren, the nation is proud of you.

(End)                                                                 Page: 015
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 ________________________
/ Nation News - Uruk'hai \____________________________________________________
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From the Opallinoc News Bureau:
 
Dateline Darkhaven - Nations' Olympics held
The 2008 Nations' Olympics were held in July. 
Here is how TEAM URUK'HAI fared.

Olympic Torch Race - 8th place
Team member - Klaatu

Olympic Naos Race - 4th place tie
Team member - Klaatu

Olympic Hometown Race - withdrew from event
Team member - Klaatu

Olympic Panda Race - 2nd place
Team members - Klaatu, Illidias

Olympic Duck Duck Goose Game - 2nd place tie
Team members - Klaatu, Illidias, Drulialirica, Redbeard

Beetle Bashing Game - did not enter

Olympic Nation's Name Event - 4th place tie
Team members - Klaatu, Illidias, Ubamakaji

(From Klaatu)

(End)                                                                 Page: 016
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 ________________________
/ Nation News - Gralthai \____________________________________________________
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Greetings, 

After a lengthy absence I am happy to say I have returned. 
I look forward to leading the great Gith Nation and welcome
all to participate in Nation events.  

A special thank you to Romani and all of you for your faith 
and patience while I have been recovering.

As of now I am looking to fill positions in our national ranks.
If you are interested please feel free to drop me a mud mail or
send me a tell when you see me on.
 
A list of job openings will be posted in Gith HT
 
-Anshuna

(End)                                                                 Page: 017
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/ Nation News - Tyrrhenu \____________________________________________________
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Just when it seemed all hope was lost for rain, the heavens erupted in a
torrent of rain.  The Vale was very drenched and the weather casters believed
that the rain would hold out for many more days.  It remains to be seen 
though if it is enough and in time to save the fall harvest.  That was 
only two months away now.
 
If hope was on their side, all would go well and they would not have to send
to others nations for aid.
 
Everyday life in the Vale was continuing even through the shortage of rain. 
Children still ran and played, especially now with the rain, several mud
coated little tykes were seen roaming the streets of Nidaros, chasing 
each other and hurling mud balls. 
 
No one complained really, it was good see such antics once again.
 
No new marriages in the Vale or births for that matter.  No deaths either,
but there was one missing person, Grindlesticks Foxglove had vanished from
home and hearth, unseen by friends or family for more than a week now, it
is feared he may have been captured by tall-walkers outside the Vale in 
the glade. No search party has yet been sent, fearing more captives will 
be taken.

(From Farlina)

(End)                                                                 Page: 018
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/ Council News - IOQC \_______________________________________________________
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The DS IOQ will be held soon after the Reunion.

MaidenStone has been working on their IOQ. Acona has been given the 
impression that their IOQ will be completed in time and will not delay the IOQ
cycle.

Arcanes has decided to withdraw from the IOQC. It is unfortunate that this
decision was reached as being part of the IOQC generates activity. I am fully
aware that making an IOQ quest is time consuming and that many Orders often
struggle to find a willing members to make the quest. However, having made
3 IOQs myself, I know that it takes effort and work, but the responsibility
only comes around slightly more frequently than once a year. Below is the 
mudmail I received from Nariel.

"Unfortunately, due to lack of interest and time constraints by many
members of the Order, Arcanes will not be able to write a quest for IOQ.
Arcanes would also like to withdraw their membership from the IOQC for 
the same reasons."

As a result of Arcanes withdrawing from the IOQC, the Ringbearers will
be the next Order to host an IOQ after MS. I have contacted RB's leadership
to explain the situation and I have explained IOQC's aim of reducing delays
in the IOQ cycle. In light of the above, RB should begin developing and 
making their IOQ now.

+ Fiebin +

(End)                                                                 Page: 019
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 _____________________________________
/ Quest News - July CoD Quest Results \_______________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

The July quest was to list as many Named Angels as you know. The mob may either
ID as an angel or have the description as an angel to classify as an Angel.
The angel must also have a name. Participants received a point for each 
correctly listed mob. Mobs which blatantly weren't angels reduced the 
total score by two points.

Only one entry was received before the deadline, and therefore the default
winner is Redbeard! Congratulations, below is his winning list.

Angelo        Angeliena        Angelica       Angelico         Myratana
Melfice       Rintrah          Golgonooza     Canaan

Score: 7, no point was awarded for Canaan.

Other named angels: 

Anyali        Athia

+ Fiebin +
 
(End)                                                                 Page: 020
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 _______________________________
/ Quest News - August CoD Quest \_____________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

Simply complete the word search. There are 15 mob names to be found. Mudmail
your entries to Linda and Falennt by the 27th of August. List out the mob
names in alphabetical order. 

S H A R A K I E M L F I J T R 
U O L D N V K B E J G Q C I F 
M Z N Q A E U G A J Z O W A I 
O L F N U N B R A H P C T M C 
K A K N U A B R L B A H K A I 
T P E D Q N J A P M E M R T N 
J X X O J U R U L R K O U C G 
A S Y M K D G E T A W P L T D 
R S O N Q J E I C T W K Y T E 
B G M E O V M X D X H E F N A 
S H I M M E R G L O O M D Y T 
E U Q S A R R A T S T G K O H 
H T E S S K O T V U T S W A V 
S N L O V P B J U E V I D B R 
F H H W I I J P M Z D J N G H 

(Word search provided by Linda)

+ Fiebin +
 
(End)                                                                 Page: 021
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 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
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The 2008 Nation Olympics
 
The Nation Olympics were held in the month of July. Hosting the event 
were the Immortals Shadrack, Co-Head of Quest Council and Romani, 
the Nations Advisor as well as Lady Loril and Prince Stoneheft 
of the Dwarves. 
 
The Olympics were first began in the year 2000, in May with a variety 
of competitions to test the creativity, versatility and teamwork of 
the participants.
 
The 2008 Nation Olympics were an exciting affair of challenge, luck and 
survival spanning over a full week with the winners given honorary medals 
to congratulate their efforts.

 
Continued...                                                          Page: 022
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 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 16 The Olympics Torch Race
Hosted by Immortal Shadrack
 
The Olympic Torch Race was the opening event for the Nation Olympics.
As in tradition with all Olympics held, the participants from the 
different nations grouped up and hunted every far corner of the Realms 
for the Olympic Torches which Duke Luther had scattered. Kayyun the 
Lizardman obtained the most Torches, winning the first glory for his 
nation. 
 
This was followed by Petrograd, Jilet, Gaxhil and Gilaeformo for the 
half-trolls, and finally the Pixies, despite their size, took third 
placing, with Arca, Eashavir and Pillo gaining honor for their nation.

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 023
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 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 17 The Olympics Naos Race
Hosted by Immortal Shadrack
 
As they watched the ongoings of the Olympics down upon the Realms, the 
Deities of the Realms decided to test the participants' knowledge of 
the Divine Shrines, or else perhaps face their wrath should they fail 
in this test. The teams raced around all the Naos of the Realms to 
collect as many Blessed Orbs as they could in the allocated time.
 
Meldrew, Thom and Owyn made it back to the Temple of Shiv'van in 
Shai'Ghool first, sparing them the wrath of the Deities and earning 
first placing for the human nation. This was followed by Petrograd, 
Jilet, Gaxhil and Gilaeformo for the half-trolls, and finally Vukodlak 
for the half-orcs.

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 024
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 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 17 The Olympics Naos Race

This was a very interesting race as few people had notes on every naos in
the Realm. There was only one orb in each Naos and none in some if the
Deity has multiple Naos'. Teams had to stay together.

From what I remember, the Human team managed to collect an impressive 9
orbs. The Half-orc, Lizardman and Half-troll teams managed to get 4 orbs
and the Hobbits, and Sea-Elves managed to get 3 orbs.

[Disclaimer: The above statistics may be slightly inaccurate.]

+ Fiebin +
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 025
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 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 18 The Olympics Hometowns Race
Hosted by Immortal Shadrack
 
To forge stronger bonds amongst our races, it was important that each 
race get to know the culture and society of the other nations. In order 
to achieve this, participants were sent to visit every Hometown except 
their own, and try to obtain a Symbol hidden in there. Apparently the 
culture shock of going to a new place confused a couple of participants, 
although a particular team did thoroughly enjoyed their time in the sultry 
chambers of the drow brothel in the City of Iniquity. 
 
The half-trolls kept their focus and were the first to win the race. 
Congratulations to Petrograd, Jilet, Gaxhil, Morcerf, Gilaeformo, Nurodma 
and Gaonllyx. Garenul and Vukodlak won second place for the half-orcs. 
Fiebin was third for halflings, and despite being alone, those hairy feet 
sure can run.

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 026
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/

 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 18 The Olympics Hometowns Race
 
Each member of the team was given a container with the a token to enter
each of the hometowns. The actual event started late and was further delayed
by around 10 minutes because some containers were missing certain tokens. 
However, the instructions for the event were already given and therefore all 
the teams were able to use this time to think about exactly where they had 
to go. This somewhat removed some of the challenge in the race as it gave 
everyone more time to prepare. It's rumored that the Half-troll team had
managed to plan out the quickest route to all hometowns with the least
number of recalls possible during this time. 

The event was also marred by the fact that it wasn't quite fair in the sense
that some races had a significant advantage over another. The first issue is
that all but 4 races (Gnome, Lizardmen, Half-Orc and Half-Elf) had unique 
hometown tokens. Teams didn't have to visit their own hometown. Those races
therefore had somewhat of an advantage in that they essentially had 1 less
token of friendship to deal with. Each racer was only meant to have one set 
of tokens, though there were some exceptions where teams managed to obtain
more. 

The second issue which gave some teams an advantage was aggressive guardians
of the hometown. Teams which had to visit the Gnome and Half-Troll hometowns
had to first defeat a guard or two. In addition, all NPCs in the Half-troll
hometown would attack non-half-trolls. This obviously makes acquiring a
symbol from those hometowns more difficult. Overall, the Half-troll token
was definitely the most difficult to get. I have little doubt that the
half-trolls wouldn't have won anyways despite this advantage, but it
should be highlighted nevertheless to make future events more fair.

Ranking   Race          Number of Symbols Collected
1st       Half-troll        13
2nd       Half-Orc          13
3rd       Halfling          12
4th       Human             8
5th       Dwarf             7
6th       Pixie             6
7th       Gith              3

+ Fiebin +
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 027
_______________________________________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 19 The Olympics Panda Race
Hosted by Immortal Romani
 
The favorite animal of the Realms was made the center of attention for the 
next Olympics event in the Olympics Panda Race. Participants had to obtain 
a powerful panda each from the panda keeper for a mount and ride them 
towards the North in search for tasty bamboo to help feed them. The paths 
were indeed dangerous and the most able care-takers of the pandas were 
rewarded for their efforts. 
 
The half-orcs came in first with  Vukodlak, Drylon and Garenul making up the 
team. Next in second place came the stoic half-ogres, Klaatu and Illidias and 
finally in third, the half-trolls with Petrograd, Gaxhil, Jilet, Nurodma and 
Gilaeformo forming the group. Perhaps the larger races fare better indeed with 
the taking care of pets, compared to the rest of the smaller races.

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 028
_______________________________________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 19 The Olympics Panda Race

I heard that Gilaeformo and Vachu killed someone else's panda! They were
promptly punished with a time penalty. The bamboo was hidden in the Northern
Plains and in the Barren Peaks geos...no reports of anyone DTing.

+ Fiebin +
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 029
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/

 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 20 Duck, Duck Goose Olympic Event
Hosted by Prince Stoneheft
 
The Prince of the Dwarves had greatly honored the Olympics by hosting a 
fun event for the various nation participants with the traditional game 
of Duck, Duck Goose. 
 
In this event, the players sat together in the same room. The player chosen 
to be the 'fox' would point to each player in turn, calling each a duck before 
picking one to be a 'goose'. The 'goose' then rises and chases the 'picker', 
until the 'picker' returns to back to the same room.
 
The half-trolls won the game with first placing, with Gaxhil, Jilet, Petrograd
Gilaeformo and Gaonllyx making up the group. In second were the humans, Thom, 
Meldrew and Elwendia whom tied with the half-ogres, Illidias, Drulialirica, 
Klaatu and Beniditto.

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 030
_______________________________________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 20 Duck, Duck Goose Olympic Event

A great concept for an olympic event but the rules didn't do it justice.

Concept and Rules:
In this event, the players sat together in a circle (Edel). The first 
player to be the 'fox' was chosen randomly and they had to point to each 
player in turn, calling each a duck before picking one to be a 'goose'. 
The 'goose' then rises and races the fox to a certain room in Realms 
and back to the circle (Edel). The fox was given 2 points if they beat
the goose back to the circle and the goose would then lose a point but 
become the fox in the next round. The goose got 1 point if it beat the fox 
back to the circle but the fox would remain the fox for the next round.

There were 28 rounds in total and the fox was not allowed to pick someone
from the same team (That being someone from the same Nation). The game last
almost 4 hours and players were allowed to join or leave whenever. Players
who were present for all 28 rounds were given 1 point.

The next page shows the round by round record of the game.
[Record provided by Petrograd]
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 031
_______________________________________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________/

 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 20 Duck, Duck Goose Olympic Event

Fox         Goose       Race of Goose       
-------------------------------------
Etain     < Petrograd   (Half-troll)
Etain     < Naya        (Drow)
Etain     < Jaxxon      (Dwarf) 
Etain     < Redbeard    (Half-ogre) 
Etain     > Gaxhil      (Half-troll)
Gaxhil    > Thom        (Human)
Thom      > Tasartir    (Elf)
Tasartir  > Naya        (Drow)
Naya      < Ashrok      (Dwarf)
Naya      < Gagnon      (Half-elf)
Naya      < Foria       (Half-elf)
Naya      < Klaatu      (Half-ogre) 
Naya      > Etain       (Elf)
Etain     < Garenul     (Half-orc)
Etain     < Gilaeformo  (Half-troll)
Etain     < Meldrew     (Human)
Etain     < Vachu       (Gith)
Etain     < Naya        (Drow)
Gagnon    > Drulialirica(Half-ogre) 
Petrograd > Meldrew     (Human)
Meldrew   > Drulialirica(Half-ogre)
Drulialiri< Jilet       (Half-troll)
Drulialiri> Etain       (Elf)
Etain     < Vukodlak    (Half-orc)
Etain     > Gaxhil      (Half-troll)
Gaxhil    < Meldrew     (Human)
Gaxhil    > Vachu       (Gith)
Vachu     > Klaatu      (Half-ogre)

Final score (Times choosen):   Half-troll: 7(5)    Half-elf: 4(2)     
Human: 4(4)      Drow: 3(3)    Elf: 3(3)           Dwarf: 2(2)        
Half-orc: 2(2)   Gith: 2(2)    Half-ogre: 1(5)     Hobbit*: 0(0)

*joined in 20th round
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 032
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/

 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 20 Duck, Duck Goose Olympic Event

It was suggested by some players that the game should have been elimination
style. Having witnessed 8 rounds of the game, I would have to agree that an
elimination setup would have been more suitable. As the round by round record
shows, the fox was Etain almost half of the game (2 hours!). Some participants
who were present for the entire game weren't even choosen (Gaonllyx). It
would have been more fun had the game been elimination style with perhaps
2 'lives' or chances per player. It would also mean that the more experienced 
players of the different races would ultimately have to race each other and
it would somewhat mitigate the advantage of having more members in the team.

An emote from Stoneheft:
Stoneheft would get this done in half the time if it weren't for 
Druliarliardruliarcarliacas' name.

+ Fiebin +
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 033
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/

 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 20 Beetle Bashing Olympic Event
Hosted by Lady Loril
 
The mighty muscles of the Olympiads were tested in a beetle bashing morning 
event hosted by Lady Loril. The mighty Ponda of the elite Dwarves came up in 
top placing with a total score of 140, followed by the half-orc Drylon, and 
the half-troll Gilaeformo tying for second placing. In third placing, was 
Ciska of the Gith. 
 
Congratulations to all beetle bashers.

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 034
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 20 Beetle Bashing Olympic Event

The original event couldn't be hosted since an Immortal couldn't make it.
After more than an hour and a half of waiting, Chubbs suggested bettle
bashing which Loril kindly hosted. However, it was only stated to be for 
fun and not as a replacement event. Due to this misunderstanding, some of 
the regular olympiads didn't participate in this event. 

+ Fiebin +
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 035
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 20 Nations Spelling Hunt Olympic Event
Hosted by Immortal Shadrack
 
The final event for the Olympics was an evening Spelling Hunt which sent 
teams rushing all over the Realms in search of monster body parts to spell 
their nation's name, and another nation chosen by the hosting Immortal. 
Participants returned with bloodied knives and bodyparts in a race to 
win this event. 
 
The half-troll team comprising of Petrograd, Gaxhil, Jilet and Gilaeformo 
with their able slaying techniques won first placing. This was followed by 
Kayyun of the Lizardmen, and finally the halfling Fiebin and the half-elf 
Gagnon tied for third placing.

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 036
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/

 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

July 20 Nations Spelling Hunt Olympic Event
This was a good event, but definitely one which wasn't fair.

As stated by Israfel, teams had to spell the Roleplaying name of their race
and another using bodyparts. Below is the list of what each of the races 
were allocated.

Race             Names they had to spell
-------------------------------------------
Human            Human        Uruk'hai                    
Elf              Quendi       Tyrrhenu          
Dwarf            Khazad       Human                 
Halfling         Hobbit       Gralthai                      
Pixie            Pixie        Khazad                    
Half-Ogre        Uruk'hai     Pixie                  
Half-Orc         Rukhas'dul   Quendi                
Half-Troll       Olog'hai     Elohai  
Half-Elf         Elohai       Hobbits  
Gith             Gralthai     Olog'hai        
Drow             Ilythiiri    Not sure (I think Okwyl)
Lizardman        O'kwyl       Aerandir               

Some letters are obviously more difficult to get than others. For example,
the Drow team most likely had it pretty tough trying to get so many 'i's.
The half-troll team probably had it abit easier because they essentially
had to just get the same letters for both words they had to spell.

+ Fiebin +
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 037
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

Once again, a hearty congratulations to all the participants and here are 
the final results after all the scores are added up.
 
       )  (,                 The 2006 Nations Olympics
      ( (  )                      July 16th - 21st
_______\__/_______ 
`--.._      _..--'        1st Position - Half-Trolls
      `\  /'              2nd Position - Half-Orcs
        ||                3rd Position - Humans, Lizardmen
        ||                
        ||                
        ||                
        ||                
        ||               
 
The Olympiads Honor Roll

The Top Olympians of the 2008 Nation Olympics

Gilaeformo, Half Troll Nation

Vladivostok, Half Orc Nation

Meldrew, Human Nation | Kayyun, Lizardmen Nation

- Israfel Qirsi Elined

[Note from Fiebin: I believe the top Half-orc is meant to be Vukodlak
rather than Vladivostok]
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 038
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

Credits for the 2008 Nation Olympics
  
A great thank you to all the following immortals and roleplayers
for their aid in creating and hosting the quests, and their
contributions to make the 2008 Nation Olympics a success.
 

Shadrack

Romani

Stoneheft

Loril

Kadgeon

Klaatu

Written and reported by Israfel Qirsi Elined
Order of Arcanes, Elear of the Quendi
               And
+ Fiebin +
 
Special thanks to the Quest Council for the information and for hosting the
2008 Nation Olympics.
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 039
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/

 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

Honorable Mentions
 
The Half Troll Nation
Petrograd           Morcerf
Jilet               Nurodma
Gaxhil              Gaonllyx
Gilaeformo 
 
The Pixie Nation
Arca                Smardy
Eashavir            Bastian
Pillo
 
The Half Orc Nation
Vukodlak            Garenul
Vladivostok         Drylon
 
The Human Nation
Thom                Owyn
Elwendia            Babui
Meldrew 

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 040
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

The Dwarf Nation
Myrr                Chubbs 
Hurley              Jaxxon
Lilcal              Ashrok
Tarmalon            Ponda
Kazanskyzz          Lilmyrr
 
The Gith Nation
Vachu               Yarith
Ciska               Mariss
Brimstone           Razorth
Efrum
 
The Half Ogre Nation
Klaatu              Beniditto 
Illidias            Ubamakaji
Drulialirica
 
The Elf Nation
Stozzter            Tasartir
Isabeau             Cunegonde
Etain

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
Continued...                                                          Page: 041
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ____________________________________
/ Quest News - Nations Olympics 2008 \________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

The Half-Elf Nation
Foria               Gagnon
 
The Drow Nation
Veneno              Naya
 
The Halfling Nation
Fiebin
 
The Sea-Elf Nation
Krakith
 
The Lizardmen Nation
Kayyun

- Israfel Qirsi Elined
 
(End)                                                                 Page: 042
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ___________________
/ Room of the Month \_________________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

In Flux
Tumbling along the chaotic flow of magic between the material plane
and the shadowed realm of the dead, time ceases to have meaning.
Flickers of what appears to be writing flows before your eyes,
scorching your brain and emblazoning it with a message.
      Is mo'r an t-eallach an t-aine olas'
Exits: none

For some strange reason... nothing happens.

Your Deity cannot hear your pleas from this dimension...

You cannot leave for reality while trapped between dimensions.
 
(End)                                                                 Page: 043
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 ________________________
/ Looking for New Editor \____________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

The hobbit is retiring from the role of Editor as he will be too busy to
be able to commit to the job coming this September. Therefore, the Cry of 
Despair is looking for an enthusiastic new Editor. The Editor is responsible
for the monthly editing of the Cry of Despair (including color tokens) and
generally oversees as aspects of it including organizing payment to staff
and contributors, recruiting writers and arranging the monthly Cry of
Despair quest. All interested parties should send a mudmail to Falennt and
Linda as soon as possible. (The Editor is also paid at least 50m gold coins 
per issue)

+ Fiebin +

(End)                                                                 Page: 044
_______________________________________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________/




 ______________________________
/ Cry of Despair Advertisement \______________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

Get paid for anything which gets published. Simply mudmail your article or
contribution to Falennt or Linda, or on the Cry of Despair board on the
Fourth Floor of the Town Hall.

You can also send ideas and suggestions to the same place.

(End)                                                                 Page: 045
_______________________________________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 _____________________
/ Ask COE Announcement\_______________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

THE CRY OF DESPAIR IS PROUD TO BRING BACK
 
           ###     ######  ##    ##     ######   #######  ########
          ## ##   ##    ## ##   ##     ##    ## ##     ## ##
         ##   ##  ##       ##  ##      ##       ##     ## ##
        ##     ##  ######  #####       ##       ##     ## ######
        #########       ## ##  ##      ##       ##     ## ##
        ##     ## ##    ## ##   ##     ##    ## ##     ## ##
        ##     ##  ######  ##    ##     ######   #######  ########
 
  If you had a chance to ask the Council of Elders something about
  gameplay, what would you ask?
 
  Do you want to know when we are going to have pasta somewhere?
 
  Do you want to know why thief mobs only keep a percentage of what
  they steal?
 
  Or do you want to know something else?! If so, mudmail Falennt with
  your questions today!

(From Falennt)

(End)                                                                 Page: 046
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|_____________________________________________________________________________/

 _______________
/ WANTED - Dead \_____________________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

   _________________________________________
0=(_________________________________________)=0
   |                     ___  __  _        /
   |    |   |  /\  |\  |  |  |   | \      |     
   |    | x | :__: | \ |  |  |-  |  ;     |     The CoD Staff
   |    |/ \| |  | |  \|  |  |__ |_/      |     invites any deadly
   |                                      |     to post a bounty on
   |    /""""""""""""""""""""""""""\      |     another deadly. 
   |    |     :   ,''"((") |       |      |     
   |    |     |  /         |       |      |     You set the bounty 
   |    |     ,-: .*"    "*;       |      |     and the number of  
   |    |     ;    (o)  (o)|       |      |     bounties you are 
   |    |     `-.      ,   |       |      |     prepared to pay and 
   |    |       :     ___  '       |      |     Linda and Falennt     
   |    |       |`.    -  /        |      |     can collect the   
   |    |     _.:  `-.__.'         |      |     skived skin of your  
   |    | ,-"'"  `-.__.-''*-._     |      |     target from bounty  
   |    .-------Dead---------------.      |     hunters. You may also 
   |    _   __              _   _         |     share your reasons 
   |   | \ |   |   |   /\  | \ | \        |     for wanting the target 
   |   |_/ |-  | x |  :__: |_/ |  ;       |     dead.
   |   | \ |__ |/ \|  |  | | \ |_/        |     The cost of this
   |______________________________________|     service is 1 million 
0=(________________________________________)=0  gold coins. The Cry of 
                                                Despair may also award
                                                successful bounty hunters
                                                with additional gold!
(Thank you Romani for the Ascii art)
 
(End)                                                                 Page: 047
_______________________________________________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________/


 _____________________________
/ Desk of the Hobbit - Fiebin \_______________________________________________
|_____________________________________________________________________________\

The hobbit is retiring from the role of Editor! It's been a rewarding
experience. I've managed to meet alot more of the Realm community and it's
been interesting working with many immortals and mortals from other 
organisations. I would like to thank everyone who's contributed to the Cry
of Despair, we all know who you are though I must mention a few names too
for their valuable help and support. To;

CoE- for their prompt responses to the questions in the Ask CoE column.
Romani- for providing me with ascii whenever I need it and for fixing tons
of pages when I mess them up and for chasing up on Nation news.
Falennt and Linda- for paying me (and everyone else)! and of course extending 
those deadlines and arranging prizes and everything else.
Klaatu, Indira and Kadgeon- for frequently submitting articles well before 
the deadline and without me having to even ask.
Galandril, Fatanza, Beleth, Vache, Annale, Stoneheft- for being part of the
Cry of Despair team.
Petrograd- for all the interesting quest information you gather.


+ Fiebin R'aw +

(End)