Gaiscioch Magazine Issue 2, 2014
reetings and welcome to the second Gaiscioch Magazine Staff edition of the Gaiscioch Magazine. G Gaiscioch Magazine is a quarterly, volunteer For our second issue we decided to cover driven, no-profit, digital magazine for the founding of the family. game developers and enthusiasts alike.
Within these pages you will find a Managing Editor & Layout complete history of the Gaiscioch Benjamin “Foghladha” Foley family as well as the original backstory
In addition, we have interviewed three Editors / Columnists: of the forefathers of our MMO journey: Althea “Briseadh” Damgaard
Also, we have some exciting features on Contributing Writers: Learn more about the Guild Wars 2 and Elder Scrolls Online, Donald “Donaliam” Rush Gaiscioch Family at: as well as some previews of upcoming
Facebook: I thank you for taking the time to Artists: http://Gaiscioch.com/facebook read this magazine, and I hope you Denton “Neoyoshi” enjoy what you see. If you have any
2 3 About the Gaiscioch Family
he Gaiscíoch (pronounced Gosh-Kia) their members to play how they want, when they began on November 11th 2001 in the want, as long as they want and do not constrict Tindustry pioneering MMORPG “Dark Age them with quotas or requirements. of Camelot”. They began on the Nimue roleplaying server with a focus on creating a fun and enjoyable The overall focus of the Gaiscioch is to support the community for players of all ages and skill levels. server communities and real world communities they are part of. They accomplish this by hosting The Gaiscíoch takes it’s name from an Irish legend public community events, participating and found within the “Lebor Gabála Érenn” and “Cath hosting community forums, interacting with game Maige Tuired” which chronicle the first people developers, and providing new players information of Ireland, the Tuatha de Danann. Specifically through our in-game advisers and out-of-game the First Battle of Moyturna where the Tuatha guides, maps, and videos. de Danann hand picked the most honorable and loyal warriors to fight alongside the Celtic Gods in With a strong focus on community our endgame a battle against the Fir Bolg. These warriors were goal is to create memories, friendships, and known as the Gaiscíoch. participate in the overall success of the community. It is through gaming, athletic competition, and The Gaiscioch are a social gaming community with social interaction that we forge new friendships a relaxed approach toward gaming. They allow and relationships.
4 5 From Camelot to Tamriel: The Gaiscioch Story by: Benjamin Foley
ooking back on times of how the Gaiscioch began we valley? This baffled me. I swore past is always a fun have to travel back before the I would never touch one of them Lendeavor. Recalling days of Camelot. in fear that they would consume the memories of epic adventures my life and I would lose all and friendships made is the easy In the days prior to my common sense. part. But with these recollections journey into Camelot, I despised comes the memories of hardship, massively multiplayer video My free time was devoted to obstacles, and how we evolved to games. I was a site lead for building map campaigns for the overcome them. a company called Harding Marathon Trilogy and later a 6 Marketing who oversaw the part story told in the PC action With every story there is a production of Hewlett-Packard, RPG Vampire The Masquerade: beginning, a great strife, and an Oracle, Siebel, SONY, and EO Redemption. My story was ending. With a lifetime, it’s not Products websites. I was in called Death in Prague and ran about how it began, or how it charge of staffing my team with for a little over a year. ends, but the journey in between the top talent in the industry. that shapes our legacy. Over the course of that time, By the time that Ultima Online more than 600 people went The Gaiscioch Family was and Everquest made their through this 6 part adventure and born in Dark Age of Camelot on appearance finding talent that I got my first taste of community. the Nimue server, with a simple wasn’t affected by these games Death in Prague was featured notion of creating an friendly was rather difficult. I had 6 web and sponsored by the GameSpy environment for all levels of developers leave the company to network, which then gave me roleplayers to enjoy while play Everquest full time. They an exclusive opportunity to test sharing the stories and legends told me they were making over upcoming games while in alpha of the Irish people. 6,000 dollars a month selling or closed beta stages. My passion virtual items in these games. for storytelling was piqued and But this story did not begin Playing games, earning more I fell in love with sharing my there. For us to know the tale than you could in the silicon stories with others.
6 players of all ages and skill levels real life needed me more than the could enjoy. Within our first year game. It took all of 3 months for we were 250 strong. We began them to run Gaiscioch straight leading larger events, including into the ground. Gaiscioch the once a month dragon hunt, would go from 500+ members where for the better part of 3 to under 50 members. Over the years we assaulted Cuuldurach next two years in my absence it the Glimmer King and finally would dwindle to non-existent defeated him after our second say for one. Aldenn held onto straight year of trying. We also the guild awaiting my return The Birth of the hosted Siege Night, an all out for 5 additional years. When I Family Realm vs Realm (RvR) fest for came back to revisit the game, all on Nimue who cared to enjoy. he kindly passed leadership back An alpha invite arrived in my to me and said, “I couldn’t let inbox from an upcoming game The family grew, the events the family end up in the wrong created by Mark Jacobs, Matt expanded, and for four years the hands so I kept it in case you ever Firor, and Rob Denton called Gaiscioch na Anu were a major came back.” Even though I’ve Dark Age of Camelot. With my part of the Nimue community. never seen Aldenn again, he was Irish upbringing, I saw this as a phenomenal person who I will a chance to share the stories I always have fond memories of grew up with, to an audience of The Fall and that completely selfless act a much grander scale. I spent With all legends there comes a spoke volumes of his character. nearly a year testing Dark Age time of strife. Real life struck in a of Camelot and losing myself in big way and with it took down the the wilderness and theme of this Gaiscioch family hard. I suffered The Dark Ages of game. two layoffs on the same day, Gaiscioch two consecutive years in a row. The whole experience was a When it launched, I decided Being life in the Silicon Valley wakeup call to me on so many to join a guild by the name requires people to have more fronts. While the gory details of Silverfist Brigade, where I than 1 job, I was not eligible to I will not share in this story, I enjoyed my time of roleplaying receive unemployment as I also can tell you that in my life there and adventuring. But the idea of had two part time jobs. This led has never been more strife than running a guild of my own with to a mountain of debt, marital in the Dark Ages of Gaiscioch an overlaying story was calling. I problems, and the whole time from 2004-2006. My entire life broke off of Silverfist Brigade and I just wanted to provide for my was flipped upside down and rallied a few people in Tir na nOg little girl. I had to step away to completely wiped to the point to help me form the Gaiscioch try to prevent the collapse of my I had to start completely from na Anu, the first chapter of the family. scratch. family. Upon asking passer bys if they would help me form a guild, To try to prevent the collapse Foreclosure, divorce, nearly three Silverfist Brigade members of Gaiscioch I entrusted our homeless, my daughter taken volunteered and four local family to a council which would and moved a thousand miles volunteers agreed to assist. In vote on decisions in my absence. away, my cat slaughtered by the end Bondon, Caelliu, Breel, The council was made up of my neighborhood dogs, on the verge and I were the only of the eight, Wife at the time, my best friend, of bankruptcy, these years had it that remained after it’s creation. and three other active members. all. I saw the darkness that life A lovers quarrel within this had to offer. It did not take long to grow. We council would result in the held public events for everyone council deciding to go a different I lost everything. I lost and people began flocking to direction with Gaiscioch. At my family, I lost my home, I the family. Our original design this point, it was incredibly lost Gaiscioch. As you could was to create an immersive uncomfortable for me to make an imagine I fell into a pretty deep roleplaying environment that appearance at all and I decided depression and looked for a way
7 to come back. “It’s only in your darkest moments, that That’s when I found Juliana. you have the most potential to shine.” I met her while going through my divorce as she too was going - Benjamin Foley, 2006 through a divorce. We both welcoming to all types of players, We requested that controversial were transplanted to Eugene, and focused on making lasting topics stay in the real world Oregon by our ex’s and then memories and friendships but and not bleed over into our left there alone and without a not at the cost of real life. family so that we could prevent friend network. We found each heated arguments. Our goal other while trying to find anyone We knew where we went wrong was to create a family friendly to share our burdens with. We the first time. The “Council” and environment for all to enjoy never expected the result. the democratic way tore the regardless of their playtime or guild apart with arguments and availability. It didn’t take long but shortly debates that turned into feuds. after meeting Juliana we I would not let that happen discovered that we amplify each again, so we took on the new Something Remarkable other. She made me better, I approach. Gaiscioch would be a Happened made her better. Instead of life sole proprietorship and I would We began with 5 people, a fighting against us, it began to form a group of elders to help simple concept, and created the fight for us. She encouraged me ease the burden. I would become “Family”. We re-deployed our to chase my dreams, no matter the voice, the choice, and the website which had been mostly where they take me and do what only person who blame could rebuilt from scratch. Still today, I do best. be passed upon. This prevented you will find the doors at the people from drawing lines in the bottom of the site which were Over those 2 years I would go part of the original design as from having nothing, to having a sand which turn to fractures, and turn to divides. well as the wood texture you home, and having my ambition find throughout. Remnants of an back. That didn’t solve all the By being the sole source of empire passed. problems, but it sure helped blame we have existed for over getting me focused on the a decade without collapse. While Over the first few months comeback. democracy can work in real life, it we began leading events with can also divide your community, just me and Caelliu at the helm and people of late get quite grabbing every random person offended quickly, which turns that wanted to play and putting those divides into feuds and them into 2 warbands. Within wars. This is the one thing we a month we were 250 strong, would not stand for. We created within 3 months we had to create The Rebirth the rule “Blades out, Not in” to a second guild to house everyone. It was late in 2006 that Caelliu, prevent any sort of infighting. Our events grew in scale, our fun Breel, Don, and my friend at the time, Juliana, pulled me out of the darkest depression and put me back on my horse and encouraged me to chase my passion. My world was reborn and I had to adapt to a new way of living. Caelliu introduced me to Warhammer Online and asked if I would like to join him in recreating the Gaiscioch in a new image. One that was
8 times amplified, and we began to public community event series our members into their alpha gain server wide attention on the with a set schedule, set leaders, program. Unfortunately Guild battlefield. and a start and end date. It Wars 2 would be pushed back, even had a website devoted to but Oldroar continued to follow the contest. This brought the the progress for us over the next attention of players, journalists, couple years. and even developers. For the first time we began working In August of 2010 our on our public image and began Warhammer chapter celebrated The Re-Birth of Public 1,106 victories during 79 events. Community Events networking with developers and journalists. By the time 1.3.6 launched in We launched the Open PuG December of 2010 activity had Nights as a fun and friendly event dropped to 85 victories in 20 for both sides of Phoenix Throne The Decline of events. There was no way of to enjoy. We had a schedule Warhammer Online hiding the truth that we needed of battles and both sides came Our numbers grew and by the a new home quickly or we would to the fight. The events would time that Mythic Entertainment suffer another collapse. top 600 people in attendance would start the decline we at times. But alas population maxed our 3 guilds and were in Warhammer Online began sitting at 90% full on the 4th. to decline and server closures Unfortunately, a series of patches began to happen regularly. would hit sending activity Phoenix Throne stood as the last into the ground. Players were Roleplay server and would do so leaving in droves and we saw a for about 6 months. sharp decline. We put together teams to scout out new titles for A Refuge Established Unfortunately by the end potential homes. in RIFT November 2009, Phoenix While our testing days ended Throne would be on the list of I spearheaded the team looking in RIFT and the live game was closures. The Gaiscioch Family at RIFT and Roger “Oldroar” launched several key factors moved to Badlands where Order Rall looked into Guild Wars were taken out of the game. All stood the underdog and was 2. Both had promise of siege of the siege mechanic was taken commonly outmatched. During warfare and epic adventures. from the game and promised in a our very first event we pushed Both were scheduled to release future patch to be reintroduced. all the way to their city and gave in the next year. Trion Worlds We launched into RIFT full destruction a real run for their contacted us and flew me out steam anyways and tried to money. to their studio for a week to create our own siege battles. get a first hand look at RIFT. We rebranded Open PuG Immediately following they We created the Telara Saga, a Nights as Battle for Badlands brought a significant number of 22 week trek across Telara with 1 and started our very first major goal. The Siege of Meridian. The first few weeks were filled with massive consensual PvP warfare in various zones. Hundreds joined us for this epic mix of PvE and PvP. It all lead to a climax at the gates of Meridian where over 800 people were in attendance for one final battle. As the Guardian forces rushed the gates the entire battle group totaling 8
9 servers went offline. When we and running dungeons together. major raids. We sieged Meridian managed to log back into game We went from 750 members at and killed all of the Defiant we stood in Meridian without launch, to well over 2,500 in just Leaders which others said was groups formed and hundreds of over a year. This growth brought impossible. We became a beacon angry Defiant players and NPCs the necessity for structure and for the possible impossible. surrounding us on all fronts. revealed the need for managed growth and absolute control In addition, the Gaiscioch We recollected and made over our reputation. coined the term “Crifting” another push killing several key organizing large scale server NPC’s standing outside the gates We expanded our eldership, wide crafting rift events several of Meridian. The battle raged refined our systems, and times a week. These events were for more than 2 hours until it’s mastered our processes. In friendly and casual and brought climax where a plot was revealed just a few short months we our server together. in story, to pit the Guardians quadrupled in size. Feats, others and Defiants against each other deemed impossible, we made While the PvE side of the to make them weak to an attack possible. We showed our server family boomed, the RvR hungry from Dragon Cults. Faeblight that you don’t have to grew discouraged as no sign of be hard core to overcome epic the siege warfare between the Season 2 launches as a encounters. We became the Guardians and Defiants was to cooperative adventure for both server first to clear several of the be seen. We now found ourselves Guardians and Defiants to enjoy. The event series was praised by fans and the media and even earned the attention of Trions developers who Tweeted and Facebooked about the adventure.
The Birth of our PvE Family Our numbers boomed in RIFT and with it came a new side of the family who enjoyed other styles of play from our traditional siege warfare focus. We experienced raiding for the first time since Camelot and spent time crafting, socializing,
10 RIFT while placing over 500 displaced members into the Alpha Test for Guild Wars 2. Our numbers flourished and continued to grow. In July of 2012 we began a letter writing campaign to try to get an in game memorial for Roger “Oldroar” Rall.
The Fall of RIFT By the time fall season arrived, tides started to shift. We had seen it once before. In Warhammer Online the developers made the with two halves of a family and to be seen for days on end. After same mistake as the developers no common ground to stand on. a week of him being missing we of Star Wars Galaxies with the decided to give him a call. Much NGE update. Wide sweeping Tragedy Strikes Close to our surprise his daughter changes that require players To Home answered the phone and shared to throw away years worth of with us the news of his passing. We were on top of the world experience to relearn the game. in 2011, seeing numbers higher This news hit our community In August of 2012 the than they’ve ever been, getting hard, very hard. Many of us felt Gaiscioch Family celebrated involved with development a profound sense of loss. Roger 5,895 victories during 850 communities on a much more had been an inspiration to the events, a record among our intimate basis. But our Siege family for years. He was a solid family history. This would all War community was still voice of reason that kept us on change drastically with the without home. Roger “Oldroar” track and focused. His humor release of RIFT 1.11 on October Rall continued reporting to the and kindness radiated to all of 17th, 2012. The patch required elder council about the progress us. Just by being in the room he every player to completely of Guild Wars 2 and encouraged could change bad days, to good relearn their class. Activity me to approach ArenaNet about ones, take stress, and turn it into dropped in October to 3,583 lending a hand in their testing laughter. I have tried for years to victories during 654 events, a title. describe the way Roger made us 40% decline in 2 months. feel but there no words that can I made arrangements to meet describe it. He was one of those Then in November they them at PAX Prime in August of people that brightened people’s released the Storm Legion 2011. At PAX, I met with Martin lives just by being there. expansion, which again caused Kerstein and discussed what players to relearn their class, Gaiscioch had to offer. It was a A few days after his passing removed PvP conquest from good meeting and Martin said ArenaNet would contact me anyone who was not rank 60 and he would be in touch shortly. I about bringing Gaiscioch into placed an obscene experience excitingly shared the news with their Alpha Team. Roger passed grind between players and the Oldroar and the Gaiscioch, about before he could ever lay hands way they liked to play. what I saw at the conference. on the game he praised and loved for the last few years of By December of 2012, the All seemed hopeful, and the his life. His quest to play Guild Gaiscioch Family was down to Siege Warfare side of the family Wars 2 began before we ever left 873 victories in 146 events, a looked to finally have a home Warhammer Online and was 86% decline in 4 months. Shortly approaching. But on September finally coming to fruition. after the release of Storm Legion, 27th, 2011 tragedy struck in a Scott Hartsman would depart big way. Oldroar was nowhere We continued our course in
11 and most of the RIFT staff would with the time in between. players found much enjoyment be laid off. in hunting the epic creatures By the time Gaiscioch launched throughout the land. into Guild Wars 2 we had more than 2,000 unique players slamming into the 5 Guilds we created within. The launch was probably one of the most chaotic we had ever seen. Our elders spent days just sending invites to players. On top of that, several bugs made themselves painfully known making several of our rooms completely useless. The Rise of Rall Just weeks before the launch of The siege war drew hundreds Guild Wars 2, ArenaNet notified of our members back to the fold, me that they were going to pay however queues and the lack of tribute to Roger’s memory in the an alliance system sent many form of a server called “Sanctum of them searching once again. The Creation of the of Rall”. The word of this spread We maintained a foot in both Great Tyrian Adventure through the media and gaming RIFT and Guild Wars 2 through On of our greatest challenges communities. Players from March of 2013 where we finally was creating a public community far and wide flocked to the decided to pull the plug on RIFT event in Guild Wars 2. We community to be a part of it’s and focus our attention solely on originally wanted to host it in the legacy. Guild Wars 2. World vs World area but queue’s and player necessity was not in It was here that we realized Life in Guild Wars 2 was line with flooding the World vs that it’s not the start, or end of ideal for the siege warfare lover World lakes with hundreds of a persons life that determines and the casual gamer. Crafting people. We decided to create a their legacy, it’s what they do was also wildly popular and public community event focused
12 on traveling through all of the running dungeons, and creating Scrolls Online. However early zones in Tyria. We gave it a dry 7 Legendary Weapons including in the game Archeage would run in the first few months to the mother of all legendaries publish information about identify any pitfalls we might find herself Eternity. In addition it’s guild system limiting it to along the way and began building we made 14 Mystic Forged 250 characters per guild. This a plan for the first season of the Weapons, and countless exotic killed any hope of us going into Great Tyrian Adventure. items. We decided to go all out Archeage. Other contenders for this event and raised/created included Camelot Unchained, The first season of the over 30,000 gold in prizes. Pathfinder Online, Everquest Great Tyrian Adventure took Next, Lineage Eternal, Final participants across all of the Season three took off like a Fantasy XIV, Bless, Gloria Vicits zones in the game getting the wild fire. Numbers consistently and Neverwinter. waypoints, point of interests topped 300 weekly. We split the and skill points found across the event up into 4 different runs None stood as tall and proud land. In the 26-week adventure, per week at various timeframes as Elder Scrolls Online. Our pre- 500 people joined us of which to allow everyone to participate. existing relationship with many 203 won prizes. In all 793 people attended this 12 of their developers aided in week series making it the most learning and getting involved in The second season we successful event to date. the game quickly. In it’s first run shortened to 14-weeks and had through our scoring system 6 312 people join us. We changed months before launch it scored a the format to focus on the guild Finding a Home For Displaced Gaiscioch 86%, the highest on any branch missions system by creating SOR we’ve ever had. It dwarfed all Guild Wars 2 has been a Community Events [SORC], a of the primary contenders. It wonderful home for some, but temporary guild for use for the was decided that this was the for the majority of the family events to allow everyone on the direction we would go with our who enjoyed Raiding and large server to get credit for this event. 5th chapter in hopes we could scale Siege Warfare, Guild Wars In this 14 week trial run we reunite the Raiders and large 2 didn’t meet it’s mark. With the noticed something remarkable. scale siege warfare players under limitations put in Guild Wars 2, Where Season 1 followed the 1 roof. same fate of Telara Saga by having for how many people can be in consistently smaller numbers WvW at the same time; the lack each week, the Season 2 of Great of raiding; and the general lack Tyrian Adventure, increased of challenge, a new home for the in numbers every week. In the majority was clearly voiced. start we had between 60 and 70 The eldership team put people, by the last event over A Home Established in together a list of over 200 100 people were joining us every Tamriel things that help make running week. Our life in Elder Scrolls Online Gaiscioch a lot easier and started with a bang and off to This laid the foundation for keeps it healthy. This allowed the races we went. Players from our most ambitious Public us to create a scoring system our past games flooded to the Community Event to date. The to measure potential games scene to get a taste of our newest third season dubbed “Legendary against one another. Items were chapter. Edition” was drafted as a 12 broken into 5 categories Critical, week, 4 events per week, event Important, Needed, Useful, and By the end of the second that had a massive raffle pot at Added Bonus with each one month, we had experienced the the end of each chapter and at awarding a different point value. traditional surge and fall as we the end of the event. have with all the games prior. We We started comparing titles began with 5 guilds to support The Gaiscioch Family pulled and looked at several. The the load from the initial rush and together and put all of our efforts most standout among them have been able to reduce them to to work in gathering materials, were Archeage and Elder 4 now that the surge is complete.
13 We are now in a stable place Guild Wars 2, we will continue our 7th chapter. Additionally, I where we have begun exploring to be a leader and role model for am working on a few proposals our place in this world and have those within the Sanctum of Rall for panels and would like to start made some new friends within community. getting our name out there at the community. In the days to conferences as a panelist. come, are future will be ones of A year from now, our growth and adventure. methods and reputation should I have many dreams and be solidified within the Elder visions of where I’d like Scrolls community. As always we Gaiscioch to go in 10 years. Some The Future will have one eye on the horizon crazy ideas include creating a Every successful business, while continuing to be involved chain of restaurants and pubs to community, or family has a with the development process of actually building an MMORPG. plan for the future. I was always the games we play. It is my hope, There is so much potential in taught that you should build a that we can help guide ZeniMax the future we can envision, that plan for the future based off of Online and ArenaNet into almost anything we dream up where you want to be a month, bringing some of the features, seems possible. We have been a year, 5 years and 10 years that have been crippling our blessed over the past decade from now. While you may or community from thriving, into with some amazingly talented may not achieve these goals, it is their games so that we can people joining the community important to have them to keep unlock their full potential. and I look forward to a future your focus on track and moving where we can share our success forward. Our 5 year plan is to continue together. It would be great if our course of bringing fun, in 10 years, we could actually Over the next few months, friendly, and memorable hold a Conference hosted by Gaiscioch will be growing gameplay to various fantasy Gaiscioch, focused on Gaming within both Guild Wars 2 and based games. It would be great if Communities. Possibilities are Elder Scrolls Online further one of the 2 games we’re playing endless. establishing their presence. We today were in this future, but will find our role in the Elder the face of the MMORPG world Regardless of where we end Scrolls Community and begin has changed to the point that up, I look forward to the journey, hosting our newest public most games have a lifespan of of future memories, and epic community event series. In 2-4 years. We likely will be onto conquests at every turn.
14 15 From Camelot to Tamriel With Matt Firor By Benjamin Foley
att Firor has been a key player in the world of Massively Multiplayer games Msince the beginning. Many of you know his latest project with ZeniMax Online’s “The Elder Scrolls Online”, but his story began long ago.
In 1990 Matt co-founded In 2006, he parted ways with his journey from BBS to The Interesting Systems (ISI) with Mythic Entertainment and later Elder Scrolls Online. Who better Rob Denton and two others. resurfaced in 2007 at the helm to share his story than one with He was the co-designer and of ZeniMax Online Studios. His such a successful history in lead content developer for ISI’s latest project is our very own MMORPG gaming. multi-user BBS game Tempest home for chapter 5, The Elder (later renamed Darkness Falls). Scrolls Online. It’s rare that Thank you Matt for joining This would later be merged with you get the chance to sit down me today to answer a few Adventures Unlimited Software and speak with someone who burning questions. The to form Mythic Entertainment has been a part of creating the first of which, I have to ask, in 1995. worlds your community calls Did you ever imagine that home. Matt Firor had his hand in the BBS style game would Matt worked with Mythic creating the game that gave birth evolve into the MMO’s we Entertainment to produce to the Gaiscioch Family and also have today? the groundbreaking title and in our current chapter in The birthplace of the Gaiscioch, Elder Scrolls Online. 12 Years Matt Firor (MF): I don’t think Dark Ages of Camelot. It was the of gaming and Firor has been a back in the late 80’s I could have first game to deploy large scale part of the majority of them. envisioned what modern games siege warfare on a three realm have evolved into – but the basics front and was set in the Camelot Today I get the opportunity to are still very similar. Players folklore. ask him a few questions about connected over a network,
16 experiencing the same game with the licensing company to make a game that we wanted world together, working with set up the modems and server to play. If you ever realize that each other – and in some cases, location we’d need in Atlanta. you are “changing the face” of fighting against one another. Sadly, the Atlanta version of anything, then you’re probably Even though it was text back Scepter never materialized, as over thinking it. The goal is then, and high-res 3D graphics the company we licensed the always to make a great game. now, the principles are the same. game from went out of business soon thereafter. But, this Let’s talk about Dark Age Can you tell us about the energized us to start working on of Camelot, one of my founding of ISI? What our own game, written from the personal favorite games inspired you and Rob to ground up, so we wouldn’t have and the game that changed create Tempest? to rely on outside partners. In my mind about MMO’s. full ignorance of MUDs (I didn’t What inspired Mythic MF: Way back when, in the mid- even hear that term until 5 years Entertainment to create a 1980’s, there was a multi-user after this), we sat down and game set in this fantasy time BBS game called “Scepter of started coding and designing a period? There are so many Goth” that I played with some game and (text based) virtual other places you could have friends in the Washington, DC world. That game was Tempest set this adventure. Why area. You dialed in, the server (although it was renamed Camelot? had 10 or so modems attached to Darkness Falls a few years later), it, so you could play with up to and it became the core code base MF: Because Arthurian legends 9 others at the same time. There for many of Mythic’s games, (and Viking mythology and Celtic was a standard message board including Dark Age of Camelot. legends) are all in the public attached to it, so while playing domain. We had no money, so you could chat with other players, At what point did you we couldn’t base the game on and leave message for those who realize you were sitting on any recognized IP that we would were offline. It was what would a game changer that would have to license, so Mark Jacobs, now be called a MUD, although change the face of gaming Mythic’s President, came up I’m not sure if it was part of the for generations to come? with the idea of King Arthur and official MUD code base. Scepter Camelot – known worldwide, was licensed around the US by MF: I don’t think I really ever and perfectly free to use. It was a company, so there was the have. We were just trying to genius. Washington-based server, and then others in other parts of the States. Interesting to note: you paid $5.00/hour – if memory serves me correct – to play this game, so it got expensive, very quickly.
So, some friends and I – including Rob, who I met while playing Scepter – decided to license the game ourselves and set up a Scepter server in Atlanta, where another friend of ours, Don Campbell, was going to college at Georgia Tech. We licensed our server, set it up at Rob’s house, and spent a few months developing our own game world while we worked
17 Do you have any favorite MF: The first Realm we worked ambitions drove you to keep memories about the early on was (obviously) Albion, you fresh and in the game? days of Camelot and Mythic so most of my development that you would care to memories are of those areas as MF: I consulted for just share? the game was in its formative over a year in between game stages. But my main character development jobs, but mostly I MF: How sad that I answer this was a Midgard Warrior, for was gathering info for my clients question on the very day that I reasons unclear to me at this and taking some much needed found out the studio was shutting point – probably that’s where time off with the family. I think down. It is a sad day, I have so most of my guild was playing at of it more as a time to recharge many memories of Mythic. Of the time, and I stuck with it. than anything else. course I have many, many fond memories of that time. What Since Camelot, many Funny enough, since I most people who only know studios have played their first played Morrowind I about Mythic through Dark Age hand at duplicating that always imagined an Elder of Camelot don’t realize is that RvR feeling you introduced. Scrolls MMO would be Camelot was Mythic’s 12th or 13th None have managed to phenomenal. Now I have game (I forget) – we had made duplicate it until now. What my hands on it and I have to at least a couple games a year for is it that makes the 3 realm say it’s surpassed even what six years by that point. We did siege war so successful? I could imagine. What was a run of movie-licensed online that first day with ZeniMax shooters (Godzilla Online, MF: In a 1v1 fight, any population like? Did they just drop it Aliens Online, Independence imbalance (even one or two in your lap and say make Day Online, Starship Troopers), percent) is a big imbalance. With it happen? How did Elder and a really good top-down 3-way PvP, the balance is more Scrolls Online come to be? spaceship combat game called forgiving, because it is much Silent Death Online. harder (although still possible) MF: The plan all along was to for one side to totally dominate. make an Elder Scrolls MMOG – One fun fact: Until very late in that was what we talked about beta, the Dark Age of Camelot’s Between your time at from our earliest conversations. title theme was the Monty Mythic Entertainment and I spent a lot of time in the early Python and the Holy Grail ZeniMax Online Studios days of the project working theme. Anyone who played in I understand you formed with the guys at Bethesda to early betas will remember this. Ultra Mega Games which make sure that the timeline for focused on consulting. In the game was set, the general I have to ask, which was your that year, were you already setup of the Alliance War was realm? Hibernia, Midgard, thinking up new ideas for approved, and the main story or Albion? the next best thing? What (centered around Molag Bal)
18 was ok with everyone. console versions done. times fall short. Do you still find yourself leaning So now you have a project, So be honest, you took on on your past experiences you have a goal, you need to a product with a 13 year to help shape your future staff your company with the history. I imagine that would ideas? At what point does best talent. Did you already be quite the frightening task. your ambition to innovate have people in mind for the Living up to years worth of get toned down by your roles or was it a traditional fan base buildup has got to knowledge of player needs? recruiting process? be quite a challenge. Over How do you keep the the next 7 years you’d see the balance to remain fresh and MF: I’ve been in the industry successful life of Oblivion relevant? so long that there were many and Skyrim raising that bar different developers on my mind even higher. Were you ever MF: Every project starts with when I started the project – some worried you wouldn’t do the blue-sky ideas, most of which I was successful in recruiting and Elder Scrolls justice? meet the cold reality of timelines some I wasn’t, which is normal. and feasibility – but definitely The game industry – and MF: Working with an IP of the we had the idea with ESO to especially the MMOG industry – caliber of The Elder Scrolls bring a new server experience is so small that almost everyone comes with the pressure of by removing the need for players knows everyone else. making sure that you deliver a to select a server before they product that matches the IP. We started playing. Being able to I must say you’ve built an worked long and had to make have friends across the entire amazingly talented team ESO a great Elder Scrolls game userbase of one megasever is and an even more amazing – but one that you can play with pretty cool, and that led to being product. What’s next on the your friends (and enemies). able to be a member of multiple agenda? We’ve launched, guilds, etc. Between that and begun finding those pesky You have a phenomenal ESO’s return to “classic” three- post launch bugs, and can knack for making mind way PvP, we’re really happy with start looking to the future. blowing games that the way that those large systems What are the short and long revolutionize the MMO came together. term goals that your team is scene. With Elder Scrolls looking at? Online you brought back Over the years MMORPGs Siege War with AvA, have changed quite MF: Our goals are clear: keep introduced mainstream drastically. In Camelot we adding regular content and Megaservers, and perfected didn’t have quest icons features to the PC game while the Multi-Guild Gaming. telling us where to go. Today fixing imbalances and adding Other games have tried to almost every game produced polish. At the same time get the master these areas but often requires developers to hand
19 hold players and show them x/y locations from the a new Road Ahead article going the way. Are we as gamers traditional style MMO? up this week in which we’ll talk becoming so lazy that we about some of our future plans – require these things or is MF: Exactly what you said – keep an eye out for it. it a natural progression of we had a minimap in the game streamlining products to initially, but it just felt too easy What do you see for the maximize efficiency and to find things in the game. We future of the MMO industry? time usage? experimented with the compass, You’ve been there at the and decided it was a much birth, and are here at its MF: That is a great question. better feel. Part of the joy of destination, where do you There is a delicate balance ESO is the journey – exploring, see MMOs taking us in the between player autonomy and wandering around, and if you future? too much information – players have a minimap that shows you are now very much used to on- everything all the time, it just MF: People always want to screen indications to direct them takes away from that feeling. play great games, and I think if where they should be going. developers concentrate on that, We’re now at the point where a Are there any exciting then all the questions answer game that doesn’t have direction features currently lined up themselves. There’s going to indicators of some type feels like for launch this fall you can be inevitable evolution – new its missing something. share with us? We know the devices, new horsepower, etc. world will be continuously – but the basics of game design growing with new and fresh and virtual world design will I have to admit, I do miss content is there any hints always drive how online games the days when I would you can share as to what’s are made. get lost in the wilderness in store for us? looking for a location for Thank you so much for that named creature. Elder MF: We’ve already publicly taking the time to sit down Scrolls Online seems to discussed the features we’re and talk with me. It has have tried to rekindle that working on, so there’s nothing truly been a journey none of experience by removing really new to add to the list – but us will likely forget. I look the Minimap and making we are very excited about having forward to our future with players rely on a compass to regular updates to the game. One Elder Scrolls Online and tell them where to go. What of the huge advantages of games the continued success of was the inspiration behind like ESO is how they expand and ZeniMax Online. removing mini-maps and get better after launch. We have
20 21 On the Front Lines with lot of our members are excited to hear what you have to say about the future of Guild Wars 2 as Colin Johanson well as gaming in general. By: Benjamin Foley Let me start of by asking, n light of this issue what was it like working with focusing on the lives Mark Jacobs on Dragon’s of game developers Gate? This was the starting I point of the revolution that and the changes taking would become MMORPG’s shape in the industry and quite possibly one of the over the years, we’ve game changing titles that managed to steal a few opened the door for games moments from the ever like Dark Age of Camelot. busy Colin Johanson, What was it like to witness these early days of online Game Director for Guild multiplayer games? Wars 2. Colin Johanson (CJ): When I first Colin’s game producing career (MUD) created by Mark Jacobs’ started working for Interworld has most recently been spent at Interworld Productions (the Productions, Mark was focused ArenaNet, but his involvement company that would later on a number of other products at in gaming goes well beyond become Mythic Entertainment). the time separate from Dragon’s his 9 years spent on the Guild Additionally, he spent time Gate, predominantly Spellbinder Wars team. His career dates working for Zipper Interactive (Magestorm 2) and Darkness back to 1997, when he worked and Games Workshop. Falls, so I didn’t really work as a game designer on Dragon’s with him very much. My time Gate, and later as lead designer Thank you Colin for taking the was mostly spent learning from on the Multi-User Dungeon time to meet with me today. A Darrin and Lori Hyrrup, two of
22 the original pioneers in the game of multiplayer. When thinking industry who later helped create One of the great ironies (and about those early single-player Dark Age of Camelot (DAoC) inspirations) to me is how RPGs like Quest for Glory, or and made it the amazing hit that graphics-based MMO’s have King’s Quest, or Final Fantasy, it became. They really helped spent the last two decades there was always one big barrier: set my career in motion, in trying to get back to the things I couldn’t have my friends over particular seeing potential in me that made those early text- (or go someplace) and play and trusting a teenager to take based games such amazing the game with them. I had to over as lead designer on a team experiences. Those early text make the choice: hang with my and a project with GMs with games were living worlds; there friends, which meant Mario decades more life experience were live scenarios and storylines Kart, GoldenEye, Street Fighter, to offer; if not for them taking constantly running in the game etc., OR go solo and play an that chance on me, I’m not sure being led by the designers (GMs) RPG. That choice naturally put where I’d be today. that literally changed, created, limitations on those games and and destroyed parts of the prevented them from a broader Since you asked about him in world. There were live player- appeal or shared experiences. particular, one fun Mark story run scenarios and storylines, Once that wall was down, a new I can share is when I spent a political intrigue between the genre would almost inevitably summer out in Virginia during players, player-run stores, grow out of that. college (I mostly worked player-created economies, and remotely during those years) even player-created parts of the Two MMOs stand out to me as cleaning up code Mark wrote in world. Some MMOs have done the ones I look back on that I’m the very early days of Dragon’s some really great stuff over the not sure I ever thought would Gate. For all I know, it’s the only years, but it’s nearly impossible reach the levels of success they code he ever wrote, but I can say to capture the freedom of change have: Lineage and World of based on that experience he was within the game that text as Warcraft. For western gamers, a far better CEO than he was a a medium gave the players/ the first name really likely coder! developers to work with. doesn’t mean very much, but Lineage was the east’s version of The big three online text-based WoW before WoW ever existed RPG games back when AOL was I don’t think any of us could when considering massive, huge and “published” everyone have imagined just how big breakout, industry-defining on the MUD side were really the MMORPG scene would success. UO, EQ, and DAoC were Gemstone, Dragon’s Gate, and become in just the short huge success stories for their Dragon Realms. Those three few years it’s been around. time, but Lineage and WoW just in particular, with countless I imagine if anyone had that crushed them in both revenue hundreds of other text-based vision it would have been and players. The jump from what games and limited graphical someone on the front lines. was considered a “successful” MMO’s like Magestorm, helped Did you expect to see the MMO when comparing WoW set the foundation for where rise of MMORPG’s to be so or Lineage to the other games MMOs would go in the future. rapid? of their generation was just The lessons learned from incredible. To this day, most Dragon’s Gate and Darkness CJ: I feel like that jump wasn’t new MMOs are generally lucky Falls provided a lot of the that hard to predict, it was just to come in around the same inspiration and concepts that the future of where gaming was ballpark userwise of where EQ/ led to the creation of DAoC. For going as the Internet became DAoC were back in the day, and example, I’m not sure how many more approachable and - I’d guess most of them would people realize that “Darkness maybe even just as important - consider that a success. Falls,” the iconic location in affordable. Suddenly, games that DAoC, was named after one of traditionally had been reserved Free-to-play has been another Mythic’s big online text-based as single-player experiences were really interesting addition to games back in the day. all going to open up to the world the mix, and something I’d have
23 never considered an option CJ: I remember back in the day were paying $10–15 a month, 15+ years ago when I thought that folks playing MUDs used to which to a lot of folks may have about where the industry make fun of the early graphical seemed expensive at the time— would go Bandwidth costs MMOs because they didn’t have little did they know the very dictated monthly (or hourly!) the flexibility to change the first MMOs used to be far more fees as a mandatory part of the world and players couldn’t drive expensive. In the earliest days experience. The games recently the stories and role-playing of text-based MMOs on GEnie, that can claim the kind of player the way text games allowed. you’d pay upwards of $12/hr to numbers in the ballpark of a The latency was so terrible in play many of the games! Even WoW or Lineage are almost all the early graphical experiences during AOL’s prime years, games F2P titles, and in the east some that oftentimes games could like Dragon’s Gate were $2/hr to of the F2P titles number users be borderline unplayable. You play. Bandwidth costs sure have in the 30-50 million range, have to remember, everyone changed over time! absolutely destroying any kind of was on dial-up. I’ll never forget conceivable active user numbers that sweet, sweet modem sound In 2005 you joined I could have ever imagined. It’s when you dialed in to play. A ArenaNet, what was the worth noting, though, that only lot of folks thought they’d each studio like back then? Do a very small percentage of users be a flash in the pan and gone you find the lifestyle is in most F2P games actually again because of how you could similar to the way it was or generate revenue, so it’s not literally do anything in the has it evolved over time? exactly a straight comparison world in text-based games, but when talking vs. WoW/Lineage, graphics limited your “sandbox” CJ: Well, first and foremost, it but it’s still very impressive. dramatically. I remember was much smaller. You knew specifically reading forum everyone, you saw everyone threads about how EQ sucked every day, and it was a very small, I imagine that in the early cause you couldn’t “RP any way tight-knit family. Everyone had days there was a lot of you want” like you could in a to work on everything, it felt like, criticism and disbelief text-based RPG. to be able to get parts of the game that Massively Online done. Each individual team/ Multiplayer games would EQ, UO, DAoC, and others proved department on GW2 now is a bit be successful. Did you find that wrong and opened up the like what the entire ArenaNet people downplaying your genre to a much larger audience. company was back in those achievements early on? Any Suddenly, MMOs were seeing days on GW1, Prophecies in funny experiences to share? a million subscribers, and they particular. Some things haven’t
24 changed from those early days that ship experience; it was a like half the company - everyone - this company has always tried hell of a bonding moment for wanted to pitch in. We basically to do big, ambitious, push-the- the entire company. It’s amazing worked the entire weekend and limit ideas, and I think that spirit how welcoming that team was knocked out the Halloween lives on to this day at the core of to someone who showed up for festival, Mad King Thorn jokes what ArenaNet is. the very end. It felt like family and all, and it was awesome. after just a few days; I’ll never That’s how live events got made One fun story to help give an forget that. Sometimes I think in the early days in Guild Wars, idea of what that ship process back on it and can’t believe it and it set the stage for so much for Prophecies was like: I was all turned out as well as it did. of what would follow. hired about five weeks before That’s just the company culture Prophecies shipped, and at of ArenaNet: everyone was The company/culture has the time, there were almost no insanely talented and pulled off evolved a lot over time, quests other than the main story miracles every day. predominantly as a result of going “link quests” to support the from around 60 or 70 employees missions in the game. There was One of my favorite memories to over 350. It’s unavoidable a big Word doc I was handed on that helps give an idea of the when a company changes that my first day filled with quests early culture of ArenaNet is the much in a relatively rapid period Eric had written, and Ben asked very first Halloween festival of time, but with great change me to “build as many as you in Guild Wars. I remember a comes great opportunity. Guild can.” There was a crazy haze company e-mail went out asking Wars was a great success for us, of caffeine and sleeping on the if people wanted to volunteer to but the team we had back then floor while waiting for my stuff work some extra hours to build was far too small to be able to to arrive from Virginia in a something small to celebrate take on a daunting and massive moving van, and five weeks later, Halloween for the players. I went project like GW2. Also, our office Prophecies went out the door. to the meeting room on a Friday is no longer in danger of falling Everyone from that release has afternoon expecting a few people over into a swamp, which is a their own amazing story about to be there, and instead it was nice bonus.
25 Between the work that you what areas do you see the something that you are most did on the original Guild most consistent demand proud of? Wars and Guild Wars 2 what and growth? has been one of the greatest CJ: Wow, that’s a tough one. I obstacles that you and the CJ: We have a very demanding think my favorite memory from team have had to overcome? customer base. They expect GW1 was getting to work on and consistent growth and support help drive many of the festival, CJ: There have been so many not just in a few specific areas, minigame, and fun side quest obstacles over the years… I but in every area of the game! projects. From roller beetle think one of my favorites was We love that; we want to be racing, Kilroy boxing, polymock, trying to find out if the dynamic pushed to be the best possible secret snowman lair, Halloween, event system was going to be developers we can be. Our Wintersday, lunar festival, successful. The GW2 engine was players are our partners on this parts of Sorrow’s Furnace, the a multi-year project before we wild ride that is an MMO, and bonus mission pack, and more, could start using it as designers, the high bar they expect from I got a chance to work on some which meant we needed some us is a huge compliment to the amazingly fun projects with a place to test our crazy ideas potential they see in our game. lot of incredibly talented people. about this “event” system that’d With a game as large as GW2, it’s I didn’t get to build a lot of the later define so much of the a challenge to try and keep up content in GW2 - being more on content in GW2. The idea was with all the different components the management team for the floated that we should just build of the game, to update and project - other than some of the the event system in GW1, and focus on and attempt to strike a very early events in Queensdale, so Queensdale was born! What balance between them, but we’ll so I have a lot of fond memories feels like ages ago, we started out continue to do our best to meet of those days from GW1 when I by building the garrison, and the our fans’ insatiable appetites for came in every day and got to build centaurs, and the human starting more! I really can’t pick even a the world. Being game director is area using the GW1 engine and few specific areas; we want to also an awesome dream job, but built a fake event system to learn ensure we’re making the entire it’s rewarding in different ways what GW2 would be like. game better and helping it all than building content was. consistently grow. Those lessons provided the On GW2, five years of guidance and outline we used to The April 2014 patch was development before release gives craft the dynamic event system quite possibly one of the a lot of time for great memories, in GW2 and helped us answer the largest upgrades to hit Guild but my favorite is absolutely question that, yes indeed, events Wars 2 so far, are there the first time we brought the would be a viable model for us in plans for more patches like playable demo of the game to our new game. Figuring out how this in the future? Gamescom in Germany. We’d every little component would spent three months before that work - scaling, removing player CJ: There will absolutely, working like crazy to polish and conflict, handling rewards, positively be more feature packs clean up every little detail we messaging, content direction, in the future for Guild Wars could to get ready for that world pacing of content, etc. - all came 2. Our first feature pack was premiere, and in the matter of after that, and each proved to be extremely successful for us, and those three months, the game their own obstacle to overcome, we’re looking forward to doing massively transformed from a but that very initial concept more! prototype we saw potential in to helped us solve the biggest a fully functional and playable question of all: should we do it? In your time both creating game with two complete maps. and playing Guild Wars 1 We all felt pretty confident about Guild Wars 2 has changed & 2, what has been the one where the game stood, but when focus and shape constantly thing that stands out for you you’re as close to the project as since it’s launch. As you when you think about your we all were, it sometimes can be refine this product more, favorite memory? Is there hard to tell how something will
26 be received when rolled out to footage as the first thing anyone importantly, the reaction was a large audience - in particular saw of our demo, and let’s just overwhelmingly positive. Maybe an audience as massive as say…that’s not exactly the way more positive than we even Gamescom. we’d hoped to show GW2 to the thought was possible. People world - via fake, temporary, test- absolutely loved it; they got back I remember being so nervous, run demo. in line multiple times to wait 4 - 6 amped, and excited that I barely Another mostly sleepless night hours to play again. The reviews slept on the flight to Germany later and the show began. We and comments coming out of the or the first few days we were had lines 4 - 6 hours long on the show were glowing, and the vibe there before the show began. show floor and 9 hours straight around the game suddenly shot I remember Eric and I staying of back-to-back-to - well, you get through the roof overnight. up way too late talking about it - media sessions up in the press game design ideas due to all center. Back in Seattle, the entire When we all returned home, the adrenaline and nerves from rest of the company stayed up we did it all again at PAX and knowing what was coming. A day all night every night playing in showed the game one more time before the show, a press outlet the maps with all the people on to the same fan reaction in the shot some really grainy footage of the show floor to help show the US, and it reinforced to all of one of our practice presentation true MMO experience when you us just how big GW2 could be. settings on the show floor and played in a map filled with other The feeling on the team shifted released it as “world’s first” players. They worked in shifts, after those shows. I remember footage of GW2. It was grainy, had a command HQ that helped a distinct transition from all of our characters were all using dev coordinate groups of devs to join us thinking it could be good to commands to be invisible so the events other players were doing knowing it was going to be good mobs didn’t actually react to us, to show how dynamic scaling after that. It was a validation of and it was a horrible way to see worked, and generally tried to years of work and a deep sigh of the game for the first time. The make it a giant 4-day (overnight) relief for all of us at ArenaNet, Internet exploded with people party at the office. and it really changed the talking about how bad the game dialogue around the game from looked - combat with mobs that By the end of day one, we were that day forward. I’ll remember ignored players and such. A day all dead tired, both in Seattle that feeling on the flight home before the actual show, here we and Germany, and the show from Gamescom for the rest of were with some horrible first had barely begun…but most my life, and as a bonus, I could
27 finally sleep knowing everything of a living game world - be that was going to be OK. CJ: I was talking with a friend at through VR, truly dynamic AI PAX East in Boston not long ago capable of making decisions that What else can you tell us about this, and I think the VR side define and change the world, the about the future of Guild is going to be really interesting - next evolution of event content Wars 2 and the goals you are in particular for games where the systems, real-time multiplayer striving to achieve over the monitor/TV can’t do a great job stories that affect the world, or next few months to a year? of very quickly allowing you to fully player-owned/run worlds. assess the situation around you We’re going to see more power CJ: I can tell you we’re extremely with camera movements. For being put in the players’ hands excited about Guild Wars 2 in example, flight sims or driving in their ability to change, define, 2014, and we hope all our players sims where you can quickly look and own their world - and a are equally excited once we’re above/around you with the VR world which in turn reacts to able to announce all our plans! options will be amazing and those actions and interactions Also, they absolutely won’t want make a massive leap in a genre the players make. Ironically, in to miss Living World Season 2 that’s made precious few steps many ways it takes us all the way starting on July 1st. More info… in the last decade. Maybe if back to your very first question. when it’s ready! someone brings back X-Wing vs. Games are more and more going Tie Fighter (DO THIS PLEASE!) back to what they were long ago, Since you first started it could be amazing without when they were text based - easy working with Multiplayer having to contend with some of to modify worlds that users can RPG’s you’ve seen them go the clunky camera interactions impact, change, and even own. from text based to virtual and getting a true fighter pilot But they’re doing it to a level of reality. Where do you think experience. I don’t see all games modification, change, and world it will be in another 10 going this route, but I certainly reaction I’m not sure even the years? With Oculus Rift and see some types where the VR text-based gamers could have many other VR technologies side could certainly bring a lot to imagined possible. And they hitting the shelves and VR their experience. certainly wouldn’t have thought making an appearance. it possible in a graphics-based What challenges do you As for the genre as a whole, I online RPG. foresee as developers to think we’ll continue to see more maintain an edge on this work towards making MMOs ever changing technology. feel like you’re truly living inside
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recently decided to Thank you so much for ask my good friend joining us today Scott, Let I Scott Hartsman if me start this off by asking if he would be willing to you could tell us what it was do an interview for the like building games in the 80’s? What were budgets Gaiscioch Magazine like back then and how about his life on the long did it take to produce a inside of some of the game? most groundbreaking projects in the industry. Scott Hartsman (SH): Honestly, at that point I would’ve been Scott Hartsman is now the of AOL Games to Everquest too young to even be aware of CEO of Trion Worlds, one of Online to RIFT, Scott has been a what budgets were, if they even the largest producers of MMO driving force behind several top- existed. The first online games I Games currently on the market. tier MMO productions. worked on were people’s second His story began in 1986 as a jobs for the adults, and I was one game designer for Interplay on I had the opportunity to ask of the 16-17 year olds pitching in, a little game called Scepter of him about his experiences and with the group being 6-8 people Goth. His career took off, and challenges in gaming along total. his involvement in multiplayer with the trends and changes in games grew. From his early days expectations that he sees in the I can tell you that the first two games I worked on paid precisely
30 zero, and my second one paid About a year into that job, I got house with $25000+ of Sun about $100 a month which a call from an old friend, Jessica Sparcstation hardware, then reimbursed my phone bill. The Mulligan, who remembered there’d be a programming budgets must have run into the me from our time working on montage as I spent the next few dozens of dollars over a year of that first generation of MUDs months trying to figure out what development! (multi-user dungeons). She the hell I’d gotten myself into. was out in the exotic lands of Questions such as, “Do you have Do you have a favorite California, where there were trivia questions to send me? I’m memory of your early years actual Game Companies. And at the point I could use some,” of game development that she was working at one of them! were met with, “Hey! We should you’d be willing to share? And she thought I might be able get some of those!” to help them! The company SH: Sure. In the early 90’s, I she was at needed someone to We didn’t do a lot of planning in left games to get an engineering make two online trivia games those days. degree, and after I graduated, I where hundreds of people could ended up working a “Real Job” play at the same time, with A few months later, I had a doing online software for a scoring and leaderboards. One working, skinnable, minimally- Fortune 100 company. No one was for Billboard, the other for massive-online trivia engine really viewed games as a way The Improv. She wondered if I that could load the right theme for a “Respectable Midwestern might be interested in helping of questions. It looked like the Adult” to make an actual living out. It needed to be a Windows right-themed game, complete that involved luxuries such as 3.1 client and run on a Solaris with chat rooms to use between food and housing. (Unix) server. games and leaderboards, and it was even kind of fun! Ok, it was Out of a group of 150 Perfect! I just had to learn a little fun. programmers, maybe 4 or 5 of us Windows programming for that had even heard of the Internet, last job - of course I could make That first online game was much less actually used it. That a game! something I did entirely by made me one of the “experts,” myself, end to end, from which was pretty exciting -- Remember, in my head, game databases to graphics and as I ended up with far more development was this thing that everything in between. That’s responsibility than I had any Adults only did as their Second when I was re-hooked on games. right for a guy who had been Job, so of course I said yes - I I was playing with more different out of school for five minutes. could clearly do it at night. types of technology than the One of these tasks included people I’d graduated with who being the sole developer on the If this were a movie, three were doing Serious Things Windows client, despite my only big boxes would arrive at my with their degrees. I discovered qualification being that I owned a Windows programming book that I had yet to open.
We ended up writing the first system that would end up being used for digitally signed electronic filings for legal documents in court anywhere in the US, including in the court that was handling the OJ Simpson trial at the time. Spoiler: Filings are boring. Huge disappointment.
31 making things that could be fun mortals yet. The way most people it would be my perfect game. again! programmed visuals in DirectX What I didn’t know was how was called “DirectDraw,” which many other people were really That’s the game that led to my was all 2D. “Direct3D” was just interested in that kind of thing, move to California where I’ve getting off the ground. People too. been ever since. simply didn’t have 3D hardware yet. I have to admit that at the So tell us about 2001, where time Everquest went online, you took on what would be Around that same time, I’d tried I was a Site Lead at Harding one of the biggest games Ultima Online (UO). I had been Marketing overseeing their to shape the MMO world-- a massive Ultima fan since the contract for the HP/Oracle EverQuest (EQ) with SONY original Ultima, but UO didn’t alliance. I kept losing my Online Entertainment. Did do it for me for whatever reason. best web developers to you ever expect it to take off Everquest. I originally like it did? I heard about EQ at a conference hated MMOs just because I immediately before it came out, feared what would happen SH: Yes and no. That EQ existed and a friend from a prior online to me if I played them. I at all completely caught me by game company found me and saw Everquest as this black surprise. At the time I first came said, “You need to see this game.” hole that consumed all of out to California, a handful of us my talented programmers. did want to make online RPGs She described the visuals and Little did I know that soon I, using graphics instead of the text the environment to me and how too, would find that passion of the last generation, but none compelling it was turning out for the MMO world. of us were even thinking about to be. My immediate response first person or 3D. It was too in my head was, “I am so never SH: The company that I was at early for that unless your name playing that game.” had the same thing happen. We was John Carmack or Michael lost ops people to it entirely. On Abrash. The knowledge hadn’t I did know that if they could the bright side, a whole lot of really gone wide among mere pull off what she was describing, things got automated really well-
32 -it left more time to play. cross-game, persistent guilds It’s insanely fascinating being started out back in those days, Even though I’d sworn that I around to see it all happening at as I’m sure you know better than wouldn’t play EQ myself, one of once. me! my coworkers bought me a copy, which led to my joining them all You’ve worked with both Now, everyone is online. on the second or third day. subscription models and Everyone who plays games plays Free-to-Play (F2P) games online games. Taken as a whole, It’s safe to assume that I was over the years, can you people tend to play the games markedly less productive than I explain some of the pros their friends are playing. Now, should have been for a time. and cons for these 2 models for a subscription game to get and give us a glimpse on how and keep an audience, they have MMOs have been at the each of these plays a role? to get entire friend networks heart of your professional Also, what do you think the to agree to pay a subscription. life since 2001. What’s the biggest factor is that has That’s problem number one. biggest change that you’ve shaped the MMO landscape seen in how MMOs are over the years? Why has The way the physics around produced now as opposed the move to F2P become so subscribers work, think of games to then? popular? as having their own gravity, based on their number of SH: It’s interesting. In some SH: One of the biggest factors players. Big games have massive ways, it’s gotten bigger and has been the change in social gravity. If World of Warcraft continues to get bigger. I heard dynamic among friend groups as (WoW) is Jupiter, it’s going to my first brag this year of someone the number of online games has have the greatest pull. If you go proud of the fact they had 600+ increased. back to WoW as a single player, people working on their non- unaffiliated with any persistent MMO massive online game. When online games were new, guild, chances are you know That’s about 20 times as many people went online to make people you can play with. So, it’s people as the EQ/DAoC era. new online game friends. If you not that big of a risk to restart a Those types of games need to be had a lot of friends in real life, subscription and play. The same recordbreaking, #1 sellers to not chances were that they didn’t can’t be said for smaller games, be considered failures. The levels play online games. A game only and it makes you a lot less likely of planning and coordination had to overcome the resistance to go back and try those if there’s that have to go into that are just of one person to get them to a barrier like a subscription astounding, not to mention the hop over the wall to commit to a standing in the way. astronomical budgets. subscription. They’d make new online game friends once they I’ve used this phrase a lot: with In others, it’s come full circle. got there. A lot of the bigger, subscribers, you’re either “#1” We’ve returned to having one or two people, or smaller teams of a handful, and some with dozens, just creating their own games in very similar ways to the original Wild West that existed in 1999-2000. Now that the tools are better, like Unity, AWS, platforms like Glyph for online game-specific tools, Steam for distribution, and Kickstarter for funding, smaller numbers of people can do a lot more and blaze their own trails.
33 or you’re “everyone else.” That to help other people grow into gravity, or subscriber physics, SH: There’s actually a third stage being their own deciders. We is what I meant. For the last 15 that comes after “hands dirty” give them the values and they years, there’s always been a #1 and “guy with ideas,” when you bring the tools. I think I’d be that was able to maintain and don’t get to do much of either of a terrible CEO if I was forcing grow, while “everyone else” those anymore. I think we’d call ideas on people or creating bugs didn’t. Now in 2014, we’re it “guy who tries to make sure that I’d have no time to follow up seeing the former #1 declining, the idea people and hands dirty on in their stuff. :) as more people try online games people and everyone else can of entirely new genres, which excel and thrive.” As for the hands on stuff? Yes, I also happen to be free like miss it constantly. Fortunately, it League of Legends and Defense If I were CEO of a smaller turns out that helping make sure of the Agents 2. Now, they’re the company, I’d be able to be more other people have the latitude to gravity holders. involved. At the scale we work be awesome is not a bad second at now, the best thing I can do is pick. In your career, you have make sure great people are able gone from a Game Designer to kick ass with as little meddling So tell us, what’s the newest to being the CEO of one of as possible. What I do now is project you’re working on? the major players on the more about helping set context I understand you’re now forefront of MMOs today. at the macro level, so people are working with XL Games How well have you adjusted all as close to being on the same on bringing ArcheAge to from being the guy that page as possible. That way, they the American market. Can builds everything to the guy know how to make sure what you tell us a little about that watches people build their teams are, and everyone ArcheAge and your role in everything? Do you still knows how to make their own it? get the chance to get your decisions in a way that works for hands dirty, or have you our overall goals. SH: Indeed -- ArcheAge has found that you’re just the been fantastic to be involved idea man now? We set context, and we have with. In a lot of ways, it’s the
34 perfect fantasy complement finished up. Think of any conversation to RIFT. Where RIFT is very you’ve had with someone where intentionally a theme park with ArcheAge has been on you didn’t perfectly understand dynamic elements, ArcheAge is many players’ radars for each other on the first try. You very intentionally a PvP sandbox quite a while now, and it’s probably had to go back and with some themepark elements pretty exciting that Trion forth in a conversation with 5, included to guide people. Worlds is bringing it to the 10, even 20 sentences trying American market. There’s to clarify before you both were When I first got involved with always been a long history on the same page. It’s perfectly it late last year, my role was to of pristine quality from the natural and human. act as the Executive Producer. games you’ve worked on. My job was to get everything on What challenges do you see Now try that where you’re only track and make sure we were only bringing an Eastern market able to have that back-and-forth asking for the tech we needed title to the West? once a day, across a language to get the game shipped at AAA barrier,16 hours apart. Things quality, and nothing extra. SH: There’s definitely any that would be a 5 minute chat We had to develop the team number of them. At the strategic in-studio can be a 5-day email of experts who would get the level, the overriding challenge thread. game shipped. The translations is to make sure that we ship a were all well underway, but the game that meets the western We get around this a few ways tech integration work with our AAA standards our players by having people work off-shift platform hadn’t begun yet. expect. It’s also all of the from time to time on both teams, different types of tactical details constantly connecting in real In the time since, we’ve built underlying that broad statement time to chat wherever possible, up a fantastic product group that make up the actual day-to- and taking trips out there to to complement the translation day challenges. Most of those visit and realign. We also have work. We have been running tactical details, no matter what to have infinite patience with the game in alpha-testing for they’re related to, all involve one each others’ unique challenges a few months as the rest of the thing: communication. and the faith that we’re both technology integration gets on the same page strategically
35 in wanting to deliver the best support even more insane sales ecosystem, since just like in the damn AAA experience we can for targets than what the “top of the real world, it creates a situation ArcheAge players in the west. line” already require to “not fail.” where we’re all winning together. However, that would also take Do you have any estimations a new revolution in the human Hopefully, that all makes for on when we will start seeing side of project management and more games that are better a beta test for ArcheAge’s coordination. If it’s true that the games along with greater American version? things you do at 600 people are stability in the game-making different than the things you do space. That means more people SH: We’re very happy to say at 60, it stands to reason they’d will stick around to learn and that closed beta testing begins in be as different from 600 to 1200 constantly improve and then June. or 1500. they will pass knowledge on to future generations of developers. Lastly I wanted to ask you, It’s good that tools like Unity, from your perspective of Unreal, and Cryengine and more Thank you, Scott, for taking gaming, what trends do available and commoditized. the time to meet with me. you see changing the MMO Online game services have We’re all very excited to Landscape? Where can we become more open with Glyph, see what you have in store expect to see it go over the and assets have become more for ArcheAge and also the next 10 years? Also, do you interchangeable via Unity Store future of Trion Worlds. have any final thoughts or and Crydev. These tools will let RIFT was a major landmark comments? the 100 people of tomorrow do in the Gaiscioch community. what 500 can today. It already We celebrated 2 years of SH: I think we’re going to lets 10 people today do what 50 fun times and made epic continue to see a flight from did yesterday. memories there. The guild subscription at the mass scale, system you laid out in RIFT though I think it does have a We’re going to see more people was the best system we’ve place in specific types and sizes partnering with people that used to date. Keep up the of games. normally might have been good work, and I look competitors elsewhere. We’re forward to the ArcheAge We’re just about that the point already doing some of that today, launch in America. where massive AAA teams can’t and we’ll be doing more of it in scale much further without a the future. That’s really healthy SH: Thanks, and we look forward massive new influx of gamers to for the entire online gaming to seeing you again!
36 37 10 Most Overlooked MMO Features By Benjamin Foley began playing MMORPGs in 2001 with Dark Age of Camelot, and it changed my perspective on MMOs forever. It wasn’t long thereafter that I I launched Gaiscioch as a casual social gaming community. Through the years, I’ve seen great MMOs forget the simplest concepts, and hole-in-the- wall MMOs come forth with features that seem so basic and necessary that we wonder how we ever existed without them. I have come up with 10 things that are absolute play with their friends resulted in players leaving essential for legacy communities (5+ years) to Guild Wars 2 in droves. Today, we sit at almost thrive in a new title. These are things I constantly 500 active members. share with game developers. That might have been a fluke, right? Let’s take a look at Elder Scrolls Online. This time, we 1. Guild Size Restrictions launched with 1,300 players and were forced into This is by far the most underestimated base 500 player guilds. We created three guilds, which construct of an MMO today. There is no reason to we call rooms, for long term membership. We had limit guild sizes. I have heard every excuse from to create two additional short term rooms for the “Large communities ruin server communities” to most active players. This room required players “It causes too much server instability”. Let me put to check in on the website every 14 days. Again, it in the words of Scott Hartsman when I asked the inability to communicate with their friends him what the guild size limit for RIFT would be: has lead to players leaving in mass. Our player “If you can find one, call me and I’ll raise it.” numbers have dropped from 1,300 to almost 800 in only 3 months. For a community that has a five-plus year past, oftentimes reducing the roster to 250 or 500 Each time we’ve launched into a game with a players is just not possible. As a game developer, restricted guild system, it’s like launching a potato you need to ask yourself a question, “Do you want from a cannon into a cheese grater. Subscriptions the first experience a player has in your game to bleed out faster than developers can remedy the be one where they can’t play with their friends?” situation. A community like Gaiscioch has the Quite simply, guilds grow and can snowball over potential to bring thousands of players into a years of gaming together. Players may come and game, but oftentimes game mechanics shoot us go in any particular game, but they return again in down before we can even get off the ground killing the future to the guild. both profits and potential gains.
A community like Gaiscioch has thousands of Legacy gaming communities have proven track members, and any branch is susceptible to a records to not only grow and maintain their huge surge of players that exceeds the guild cap. numbers over extended periods of time, but they In RIFT, Gaiscioch grew to over 2,500 active also have proven that they create an environment members in a single month. At the time, RIFT was within games which keeps players interested in a pay-to-play game. Financially, Gaiscioch alone playing. They are essential to your long term goals was responsible for over $37,475 in subscriptions and success. per month. As the years progress and more legacy gaming Let’s fast forward to the release of Guild Wars 2. communities are born, this one feature is going to Guild Wars 2 limited guilds to 500 players. At be essential for any MMO’s chance of survival. launch, Gaiscioch had 5 guilds nearly full and a total of 2,000 players actively playing. The inability to communicate between the guilds and
38 2. Alliance Systems and Cross launched, the public facing guild rosters and data Guild Communication were long gone. We have not seen it since. Surprisingly, this is one feature that appears to have been lost in newer games. Dark Age of Why is this so important? Giving guilds the ability Camelot had a phenomenal Alliance system. to import data straight from the source into Warhammer Online followed suit with an equally their own websites not only allows them to save efficient Alliance system. RIFT left the alliance countless hours of maintenance, but it also allows system out of the game in lieu of a custom chat them to help market the game to a wider audience channel system. Guild Wars 2 and Elder Scrolls without tapping into the developer’s marketing Online have neither an alliance or a custom chat dollars. Giving information for the public to functionality. Why is this so important? import, index, and use allows hundreds of fan and guild sites to form and grow. This promotes the MMOs are built to be a social experience. They game without any cost to the developer other than were the Facebooks and Twitters of the late 90’s. maintaining the feed. These games are highly reliant on people using their social medium. Clubs, organizations, and Any way that a developer can keep people playing communities evolve when they are allowed to the game rather than maintaining a website is a best communicate with one another. practice all MMO companies should encourage. Making in-game information readily available to Imagine working in a Fortune 500 company outside sources will help promote and encourage and not being able to communicate with any communities to be involved in that title. other department. Alliances allow like-minded communities to build a bridge of communication between their organizations. 4. Guild Branding In a somewhat baffling turn of events, many new Additionally, alliances can be used to overcome MMOs are turning away from allowing guilds to the hurdles of small guild size restrictions for large set a guild brand. In older MMOs, guilds were gaming communities. First and foremost, you able to design a guild emblem or marking that cannot have a social experience without allowing could be used in game. This allowed guilds instant people to communicate. Developers may say “but recognition in towns and on the battlefield. we have zone chat for that, right?” Yes, but let’s Developer need to realize that guilds are like think about what Facebook would be like without brands. Imagine if every cola drink just came in a the friend feature. Imagine how well we could clear bottle. How would we separate them? How communicate if everything that everyone said would we decide we like one over the other, or was on the homepage. Think about what would identify which one is which? We couldn’t. A MMO happen if there were no profile pages or friend that does not allow guild brands means that people requests. It would be pure chaos. The pairing of throughout the game will be able to find different like-minded individuals is a powerful part of why guilds, recognize what they represent and find the social networks work the way they do. Ignoring group that best meets their needs. Guilds will find this essential element in an MMO is catastrophic. it much more difficult to recruit and promote their guild.
3. Guild API and Guild Site Guild branding is about building a legacy within Connectivity a graphical representation of your community. When you decide to buy Nike over Pro Wing or This one is something that has baffled me. In Dark Coke over Safeway Select, you are making a choice Age of Camelot they had externally available XML based on a brand. You know what to expect when data feeds of stats for every guild and every player encountering this brand. Branding is about giving in the game. When Warhammer Online came people a feeling to associate with your product. around, they merely displayed the guild roster and Whether it’s a memory or a way of life, branding vital information on a website. World of Warcraft is powerful. When people in Warhammer Online also had public facing guild information readily saw the Gaiscioch Griffon, they knew who we were, available on their website. By the time RIFT
39 what we did, what we were capable of doing. This and participate in the community. These features however was lost in the latest wave of games like are important, whether it’s a simple “First on the RIFT and Elder Scrolls Online which has made server / First in the world” system like RIFT or a identifying one guild or another increasingly more full-fledged guild questing system and rewards difficult. tree. These concepts are not only sought after by players but also used in promoting a community. A guild brand gives a sense of pride and belonging Any way that a developer can allow guilds to show to a player. It also acts as a beacon for what a group pride in their accomplishments will go a long way stands for. Overlooking this is one of the crucial to keeping those guilds involved in game. This underestimations of guild marketing needs, and keeps guilds and players feeling accepted and it drastically affects the success of communities connected to the game community as a whole. within a game. 6. Group Finder / Public Groups 5. Guild Recognition, Rewards I never really thought about this one much until and Achievements I played Warhammer Online. In Dark Age of From the moment we’re born to the moment we Camelot, Gaiscioch used battlegroups to organize die, there is one thing we all want. Acceptance. several smaller groups together. However, most of Achievements, goals, and accomplishments drive the time, this required a player to step up and form us as human beings. They make us feel important the groups themselves. and included in the bigger picture. Whether it’s membership in a family or a country, recognition In Warhammer Online, they blew the lid of one’s achievements drastically improves their completely off with their Public Group system and loyalty toward the recognizing party. made grouping incredibly easy. A leader just had to mark their group as ‘public’, and anyone in the In a business, it is common practice to recognize area could pull up a list of public groups and join employees and teams that overachieve and meet them. A leader could even mark if the group needed their goals. This can be applied to gaming as a healer or tank. While we had it, we overlooked well. Players naturally want to be recognized, as its importance. Unfortunately, we have seen this do communities. Every guild system added to a magnificent creation disappear from gaming. It is game should have some form of recognition and the one feature that I feel could help make MMOs a achievement structure for guilds to push for. social experience once again. It also allows groups to grow and shrink as players log on and off for the You want to encourage guild members to contribute day, and this saves a lot of time for an event leader.
#6: Warhammer Online’s Open Parties and Warband window allowed players just logging in to instantly jump into the action with a simple click of the join button.
Leaders could specify if they wanted an open party or a private one. This also allowed players to see who’s leading on the battlefield at a glance.
40 7. Ability to set 10 Guild Ranks icons above certain NPC’s heads to allow them to This one may seem silly. The reason why requires target them specifically across a larger group. us to look at times past. In the past three games, I’ve explained this to developers, and once they understood the reasoning, they were quick to 9. Custom Linkable Map Markers expand their guild ranks. This is something many don’t think about, and it is one of the most overlooked features in a game. Most classic MMORPGs featured a 10 guild rank Being able to shift-click to print a location in chat roster. Gaming communities with a long history can be extremely useful for helping a new player and proven track record developed an internal find something they’re looking for, for giving 10 rank guild setup. If a game launches with a 5 rally points for raiding events and for setting up guild rank system, a guild with a pre-established ambushes in PvP. Being able to point at a part ranking system has to eliminate 5 ranks from their of the map and allow any player who clicks on it roster. This would require some players to take a to see where you’re talking about is a huge aid in demotion to play a game with their guild. organizing events and guiding players to where they need to go. No one likes a demotion. It puts a negative taste in the player’s mouth about the game before they even get a chance to know it. Starting a player 10. Group Assist experience on a negative can quickly balloon into One of the most forgotten features in modern an overall negative experience. I have witnessed MMOs is the ability to assign another player as players quit a game because they would have to a group assist or assistant leader. A group assist take a demotion to be part of the guild within it. can invite, kick and move members within a A game developer should avoid friction like this at group. This allows the leader to focus on leading all costs. the overall event while his or her assistants keep the group organized. Events move more smoothly with this feature, and guilds really don’t know how important it is until they’ve played a game that has the feature then switch to another game that doesn’t include it. It’s like going from power door locks to manual door locks on a car. You really don’t expect how annoying it is to be without it until it’s suddenly not there.
Supporting Guilds Supports the Game Ensuring these 10 items make it into a game 8. Ability to Mark a Target or solidifies its longevity and well-being. First and Player foremost, remember that MMOs are a social Oftentimes, when leading large scale events, experience. It’s a way for people who play games leaders may be coordinating several groups at one to meet other like-minded people and forge new time. Some games are kind enough to provide a relationships together both in the game and real “Group Leader” icon, but few allow leaders to life. Developers are not just creating a game, they mark a player with an icon that shows above their are building a social network whether they realize head signifying they are the leader of the raid. it or not. Any tools these developers can give to When leading events that span several groups of players to make it easier to connect will benefit the people, this is critically important. It helps players game and encourage players to continue playing stay organized and allows them to follow the right it. Focus on bringing people together and allow person when multiple groups cross paths. them to build memories.
In addition, the ideal system allow players to place
41 Chapter 5
42 43 Cyrodiil AvA Tactics: The Basics By: Caitlin “Kaytlin” Martin
lder Scrolls Online will expose many players to forms of combat that have, in the past, been more appropriate with real life situations than in a mmo. Real life Ecombat tactics will actually come into play for many people who have never had the need or desire to learn them in this MMO. One such tactic is the ambush. Ambushes funnels them into a narrow “killing zone”. This killing zone is one in which the enemy has few Tactical ambushes will be effective and will most options for escape. It limits their response, and likely see widespread execution across the Cyrodiil allows a rapid escape for the “good guys.” landscape. In fact, the landscape of Cyrodiil lends 2. There should be a crossfire that puts a itself to this type of combat quite well. The terrain maximum amount of damage into a narrow is varied, with many places for opposing teams to focused area in order to put your enemy down as hide in wait for their opponents. These potential quickly as possible. It restricts their escape, and sites provide cover and concealment as well as prevents them from making a counterattack. concentrated fire zones. A well-executed ambush 3. A good ambush allows for maximum cover and is not only devastating to your opponent’s morale, concealment to minimize the chance of damage to but their numbers as well. An ambush should be your own team. planned well in advance and is not something that 4. Advance planning will enable the field just happens. For it to be effective it must meet commander to know where the enemy access several criteria. points are. Where do they travel, when are they likely to travel, etc. 5. An ambush that occurs after dark is especially 1. The enemy must be put in a position that
44 disorienting to the victims as their vision is sites in order to save you a lot of time randomly limited, and makes counterattacking difficult if exploring the landscape. The illustration below not impossible. shows one such potential site that I identified 6. Placing your team on high ground also makes using the map. it more difficult for the opposing team to reach your team in an attempt to flee the killing zone. 7. Even the best plans sometimes go astray for any number of reasons. Plan an escape route for your team if something goes wrong. Better to run away and fight again, than to lay is some field eating dirt!
Here are some examples to illustrate what to look for when setting up your ambush points.
Figure 2 Map Use to Scout Potential Ambush Site
This illustration taken from Cyrodiil shows a promising ambush site location. The trail between the two “X’s” is our potential site. It provides a limited access through mountainous terrain. It parallels a well-traveled road that leads both to a Keep and a Gate. It also leads to a town that provides quests to all factions, which is also an Figure 1 Potential Ambush Site advantage. In order for you as a commander to know if this potential site will really work out as an This site illustrates several of the points we ambush site, you will need to perform an actual in- have been discussing. This site allows the person field recon of the area. The map provides attackers a height advantage over their enemy. us some information, but not enough to make an It provides almost no access to the enemy to informed decision. rush their attackers, and provides both cover and concealment for the attacking force. Additionally this site provides an additional advantage to the attacking force: The water in the valley slows the enemy and keeps them in the “killing zone” for an extended time frame. If the gate in the distance is controlled by your team it would be even better for you could close the gate behind the enemy when you spring your ambush, allowing them only one avenue of escape. Unfortunately this site would not work, for the gate in the distance goes nowhere, but it is a good example to illustrate the ideal.
Cyrodiil is a large battleground that takes over 30 Figure 3 Entrance to the potential site from the South minutes to run across from border to border. As a commander who is seeking potential ambush sites When I first came up on the area from the south you should be using your map to locate potential I was immediately encouraged by what I saw.
45 Steep sides, with a narrow path up the center just as the map seemed to indicate. There is plenty of potential cover and concealment among the rock formations on either side. The pathway in real life would show the path is well traveled. Unfortunately we cannot confirm this in the game. We will have to scout this location during peak periods of combat to see if the path is used by actual players. What I would be looking for as I progressed up this trail was potential hiding places that provides cover and concealment for my team, and limits to the response routes for the enemy team.
Figure 5 shows the actual killing zone of this ambush site.
Figure 5 is a view of the actual killing zone of the ambush. I am shown standing on the same rock as in figure 4. You can see that there is little access to the ambushers. On the other side of the trail similar protection is offered to team members who would be stationed there.
The site is not perfect, for the perfect ambush site is so far still a dream. The figure below illustrates one minor problem area.
Figure 4 Limited access to upper level prevent direct frontal melee attacks
Figure 4 shows how the terrain in this site limits access to the ambushing squad. Here I am standing in an area that potential melee counter attackers could access in a relatively short time frame. Unfortunately for them, they cannot get any higher. I confirmed this with my site recon. Figure 6 Potential counterattack avenue of approach Ambushers on the level above can rain ranged attacks on them without fear of melee response. Here you can see a potential avenue for the The actual ambush site is farther below which opponent to scramble up the slope towards our keeps the enemy in the killing zone even longer, attackers. The path directly over my head is the since access to this point is not an easy task as you avenue of approach. You will notice it is a fairly can see in the next screenshot. So make sure when narrow access point. By concentrating fire on this you are scouting to try and access the areas your point with a few people you should be able to take team will be stationed in from the killing zone down anyone attempting this route quite easily. from several directions to make sure your team AOE traps, etc. would be great placed in this area. will be secure. In real life the steepness of the terrain here would
46 also hamper the opponent’s access to the attacking ambush as the enemy freezes momentarily right team, but this is not something that has been where you want them, in the “killing zone” at the implemented by the designers. moment the ambush is sprung. This is human nature, the brain “farts” for lack of a better word Our escape route for this site would be to the north when faced with a surprise. The longer they stay past the ruins near the top of the ambush site there confused and dazed, in the KZ, the better for towards the gate shown in red on the map. Access your team and the worse for them. It allows your is readily available to both sides of the ambush concentrated fire to have more effect, and it allows towards the gate. you to set up siege at the entrance and exit of the ambush site increasing the chance for total victory So it would seem this is indeed a good site to and devastation of your opponent. establish an ambush. We would certainly want to scout this area to make sure it is actually being used When stationing yourself in a potential ambush by our opponents as I mentioned previously, but I site you should also make use of good cover think you can see what we are looking for when and concealment. Good cover provides both selecting the site. This site shows great potential concealment and cover, but good concealment and went into my notebook for future reference/ does not necessarily provide good cover. use. Here are two examples to illustrate this point. If we decided to utilize this as an actual ambush site we would want to have between 10-15 people on each side of the path with ranged weapons. We would station two people at the beginning and end of the killing zone. Once the ambush is sprung we would want to drop ballista at the start of the trail and end of the trail to take care of any who try to escape using those routes (See accompanying screenshots for several possible placements). The second person at the trails ends would be for protection of the siege operators. In real life we would have used claymore anti-personnel mines to protect these ends, but since they aren’t available in Cyrodiil we will have to make do.
Good communication with your team members is also vital. Make sure each and every member Figure 7 Great example of Concealment of your ambush team knows what their position is, what their job is, what the signal to initiate In Figure 7 I am effectively concealed from my the ambush is, and what the signal to (escape or opponents view. It would take a keen eye to “boogie out of dodge is.”) Never assume they know spot my character unless you knew where I was. for it never fails, someone will go “I didn’t know.” Another example of concealment not illustrated is to simply crouch in position. Your enemy cannot Another thing that is vitally important in an see you when you are crouched. ambush site is discipline at the site. Everyone must stay hidden in a crouching position so as not to give There is a problem with good concealment though, away the ambush site prematurely. The last thing it provides no protection from enemy fire. You are you want to happen is to give away your element completely vulnerable to enemy fire even though of surprise. The waiting game in an ambush is you might not be seen. Arrows penetrate leaves tough. It separates a good team from a bad team. quite easily. The good team is patient, and disciplined. They look forward to catching their enemy by surprise. The element of surprise is vital for a successful
47 Figure 10 Ambush Entrance Placement Example
Siege placement could also include “meat bag” catapults to poison your enemies in the killing Figure 8 Example of good Cover zone.
Figure 8 illustrates the concept of cover. Ok, so you have now planned, scouted, and set Unfortunately I had to take this screen shot from up your ambush. You wait for your opponent to the rear as I was unable to get a good shot from show up, and spring the ambush. But suddenly the front due to my proximity to the tree. This is something goes wrong and the enemy is escaping the same tree as shown in figure 7. Cover protects your ambush. Don’t wait for them to regroup, give you from enemy fire, and often time protects you the signal to withdraw and have your team leave from enemy view as well. The only thing that the area as quickly as possible via your escape appears from the front view of this tree is the ends route. Waiting around can get you all killed and of my bow, which for all intents appear as small negate any gains you made. branches. Knowing how to plan, scout, set-up, and execute I mentioned placement of siege engines in the an effective ambush are skills every commander ambush site earlier. Here are several examples of should be intimately familiar with. Not only to potential siege placements at the ambush site. ensure the destruction of the enemy, but to be able to know what terrain features on the map to avoid. If you know where to set one up, you will also know what areas to avoid!
If you do get caught in an ambush the main thing you have to do is to “get out of the killing zone” ASAP! If you stay in the KZ you will die, can’t put it any simpler. Marines are taught to turn and advance towards the attackers as quickly as possible if caught in an ambush, but avoidance is a far better option. It doesn’t matter which direction, just get your feet moving as quickly as possible towards your attackers. You might make them duck, or move which might just give you enough time to get them.
Pay attention to the terrain, know what potential sites look like, and take steps to avoid those areas. Now that you know what to look for you should not have any problems. If you do get caught in a Figure 9 Ambush Exit Ballista Placement Example well laid out and executed ambush, shame, shame, shame.
48 49 Exploring Bleakrock Isle By: Lisa “Prissy” Grant
i. I am Prissy, the directionally challenged while he sorts out what is going on. Is he nuts? I explorer. I have been killed and my soul have to do this alone without help? Easy for him Hhas been taken. No, wait, I am alive! I to say. The Prophet’s ghostly form is now gone; he have somehow been brought back to life without went to find a safe place for us to meet, leaving me a soul. utterly alone. I have ragged and unclean clothes on (hope no one takes a deep breath), no shoes; I Who brought me back and why? Where am I? am only armed with the weapons I picked up while What am I supposed to do? Who are all these rescuing the Prophet, and I am not very good at people around me? Who the heck is the Prophet using them. I simply want to go back to bed, cover and what does he have to do with me? Why is he my head up, and hope this nightmare ends soon. calling me a vestige? Skyshards, dark anchors, no What is one person suppose to do? Why me?! soul, lions, tigers, and bears...Oh My! Wait, is this a dream or a nightmare? Come on Prissy, wake up! I am afraid to open the door and see what is out there; I am afraid it will look like my nightmare. As I open my eyes I realize that it was no dream; it But I cannot stand here forever! I have to just turn was a nightmare. I did die, but I am now alive. The the doorknob and get moving, exploring, meeting Prophet, who I rescued in my dream, is standing new people (both good and bad), figure out who in front of me once again in ghostly form. I am in took my soul and take it back, take my revenge. a building somewhere; there are sounds coming Mmmm I like the sound of that. from outside, and the scent does not smell like home. The Prophet is alive, but he is somewhere I have several choices to make, stay in Davon’s else in this land. He is once again talking to me Watch or go help the people who pulled me from in my mind, which I think I am slowly losing. He the water. As I step out of the house I see a man by says I am to go explore this world, meet and help the well; I decide to talk to him. His name is Riurik; the people who rescued me, and make new friends he suggests that I go talk to Liezl because she would
50 be able to tell me about the people who brought me here. I found Liezl at the docks, and she took me by boat to an island called Bleakrock. I found myself on the docks of this island slightly seasick, and with the instructions to find Captain Rana. The excitement of exploring is now overriding my fear of the unknown. The great adventure has begun. Beware world, Prissy is on the loose! I found Captain Rana in her office issuing a lot of orders to people. She looks haggard, as if the weight of the world is on her shoulder. I listen to her concerns; she is looking for some missing I have gone east as far as I can go so let’s go north. people, and she is trying to decide whether to The island population of wolves is decreasing flee the island or stay. I offer to help look for the to help with my new set of clothes. There are missing people to fulfil my newfound hunger for butterflies and globugs that a local told mewas exploration and adventure. I am told to find Darg used in fishing. Yumm, fried fish. I just spotted at the Skyshroud Barrow, Rolunda and Eiman someone running towards me. I can not tell if it at the Orkey’s Hollow, and Sergeant Seyne at is friend or foe. Prepare for battle! Ok false alert Hozzin’s Folly. I must get them back to town and he is one of the missing people I am to find so I report to Captain Rana. I have my orders and a must be close to Skyshroud Barrow. I found Darj sense of purpose, I am feeling human again. and he is hurt and wants to know if I am good with my weapons. Is he nuts? So I lied and said, “Yes After exiting Captain Rana’s office I have no idea how can I help you?” He wants me to summon which direction to go. So I shut my eyes, spin around the Dragon Priest and help him, since they are and go the direction I am facing. When I open my desecrating his tomb. So ok here we go again. eyes the rising sun blinds me momentarily, and I Watch out for the skeletons, they are very angry realize I will be heading east; it is good to see the and hurt alot when attacked. I died several times bright sun after the horror of the last few days. And trying to get this done. Maybe next time I will not so I begin my journey to gather the missing people lie and say I am good with these weapons. Mission by walking through the east opening of the village accomplished the tomb is now safe, though after wall; at that moment I notice a lot of flowers, iron the Dragon Priest called me a worm I think the ore, and shiny things called runes. I immediately bad guys can have his tomb back. One thing I did decide to collect them all. I also wonder about all notice is a skyshard located in front of the tomb. the things I could make with them; it would be I remember the Prophet said to collect all that I great if I could make some new clothes, weapons, could find. Darj has now been sent back to Captain and food to support myself. I will have to check Rana. with Captain Rana when I get back. But, I also see a lot of wolves that I must kill before they kill me. Ok, back to finding the other missing people. I Ouch!!! That wolf tore a hole in my clothes; I hope can still go north so off I go. I smell smoke from his hide can help make me new ones. a campfire, bandits! I just killed one and he had a note on him. I now need to burn their supplies and Look there is a man in front of that tent, I wonder if rescue the captive. I have a torch and I have burned he is one of the missing people. This man is in bad the supplies, now to find the captive. Of course, he shape and his name is Hoknir, and he is missing can not be up by the supplies. Oh no, he is all the a foot because something called Deathclaw ate it. way in the back and I had to fight my way back to Why only his foot and why is the thing not dead? him. He is now on his way back to Captain Rana Now he wants me to kill it. Do I look like a mighty and his name is Bjorynoff. This will make 5 people hunter and why is he out here? I think Captain rescued. Rescuing all these people is helping me to Rana is missing more than the three she sent become familiar with my weapons again. me after. Hoknir makes four. Deathclaw is dead and there is nothing in his cave - no trace of the From the camp I can see an island to the northwest, missing foot. think I will head there. The water is cold here, full
51 of chunks of ice. I can see bears on the island and the mine. I found a skyshard in the middle of the see a light flickering in a cave. Guess I will head mine and at the end of the mine discovered what for the cave and hope there are no bears. No bears was going one. Mission accomplished. Sergeant just Rolunda. She is upset because her brother Seyne is on her way back to Captain Rana. went into the cave and has not returned. She keeps talking about a Frozen Man and missing people Still more island to explore. I think I will finish and that this place is called Orkey’s Hollow. Before exploring before heading back to report in. I I went in I collected the skyshard in front of the continued to head south. I passed the Wayshrine cave. I have rescued Rolunda’s brother, Eiman, that has allowed me to revive and continue my from Orkey’s Hollow. The Frozen Man knew I had adventure. A lady runs up to me chattering like no soul and offered me his which was black and a squeaky squirrel and I cannot figure out what gooey. I declined. I think I am better off the way I she is saying. She shakes her head and says her am now. Rolunda and Eiman are now on their way name is Molla. I can finally understand her. to Captain Rana. Someone put a curse on her and her three friends using a wand and turned them into skeevers (not I finished exploring the island. Nothing else squirrels). I have to find them. Well, I am heading here, going to head west now. Found a really nice out to continue my exploration, so I might as well fishing camp called Paddlefloe Fishing Camp. No look for them, also. Since they are now skeevers I one was at home but a fire was going and fish were bet they have all gone in different directions. I will drying. It is a nice place to rest and maybe do a continue my route to the south. little fishing. I can see land on the other side of the water. That looks like a good direction to go. I just met Halmaira. She is very upset. She cannot find her husband or dog, or was it her dogand Spiders, lots of spiders, spitting poison and webs. husband. They went fishing and have not returned. The hair on the back of my neck is standing straight She gave me a dog whistle to call the dog. I am up. Must I go that way? I shudder and take a deep heading to the barn to see what I can see and use breath. Here I go. As I round the corner I see a the whistle. Wow, the dog actually came and wants hunter’s camp and an Argonian is standing by the me to follow him. Can you guess where he is going fire. She looks a little green under her scales. She to take me? Yep, good dog. Husband and dog safely wants me to find her three missing friends, which home. While I was waiting for Geilund to recover you guessed right, have been taken by the spiders from his near drowning I saw a statue across the to their caves. Mission accomplished. All three ice flow and I went to see it. Very interesting, two friends rescued, freed from the spiders’ cocoons. figures on top of the rock sort of looking maybe The Argonians have their own boat waiting for like dwarfs. Halmaira and family sent to Captain them so they are taking the boat and leaving the Rana. This makes eleven. Oh, found one skeever area. My count is now up to eight people rescued and uncursed him. I also found the other two while from the island. re-exploring the island and uncursed them. Not much else on the coastline, I am going to I returned to the town and talked to Molla and head south now still looking for Sergeant Seyne was glad to hear that all her friends made it back at a place called Hozzin’s Folly. I see a dead and had reported to Captain Rana. Total rescued body in the road and someone is standing by the is now fifteen. Now time to report to Captain Rana body. I approach carefully to see who it is. Thank that all the people of Bleakrock have been found goodness the dead body is not Sergent Seyne, but and she can leave the island. a bandit that she killed. She has a mission for me to take the clothes off the dead guy, put them on My last assignment before I leave the island is to as a disguise, collect three items from the building light the signal fire to warn Davon’s Watch of an below, bluff my way into the mine, and discover attack coming by sea and to prepare for a fight. I what it going on. I carefully take the dead man’s light the signal fire and when I return to the town it clothes and decide I would put them over mine, is under attack. The fires need put out and people since I really did not want them touching me. I am need to be gathered up and pointed in direction of not squeamish, just prissy. I fought my way to the the tomb. Once this is done a ship is waiting for us three items and then put the disguise on to enter on the other side of the tomb. Captain Rana will
52 lead us all to safety. not have to get the eggs. He wanted me to throw the eggs at the Covenant soldiers in the area. I was We have landed on the shore of a little camp called thinking better egg in their face instead of mine. Dhalmora and here the people of Bleakrock will The only thing I have to say is I want more eggs! It rest except me. Captain Rana requests that I head was awesome fun. to the Dhlamora Watchtower to find kindlepitch to light the signal fire at Bal Foyen. I talked to Quartermaster Urona at Fort Zoran and she is sending me to Bal Foyen docks to see In Dhlamora there was an Argonian crying about Quartermaster Lineem to get the kindlepitch his children being lost. His name was Esqoo. powder and to warn her of the incoming invasion. I stopped to offer to help seeing I am getting It was a nice walk to Bal Foyen docks. I found the pretty good at finding lost things, well, except my missing guars and the lost argonians. All should soul. I was surprised he was not talking about an be in Dhalmora when I return. Quartermaster argonian child, but the beasts that carry his goods. Lineem gave me the kindlepitch powder and Umm, guars I think he called them. I said I would showed me a shortcut to the signal fires, which help and he gave me some stinkweed to feed them were of course guarded by Convenant guards. when I found them. Oh good, something else to Success signal fires lit. Davon’s watch has now make my clothes smell wonderful. I found another been warned. I see movement below me, going to Skyshard behind the merchant hut, which is the go investigate. Nice place sort of hidden and out highest hut in the town. of the way, a good place to land and hide enemy troops. I also found another Skyshard on a boat in Finally, made it to the watchtower, but noone was the shipyard. Strange place for a skyshard. there just a note saying that the kindlepitch powder is at Fort Zoran. Had to fight my way to Fort Zoran I need to head back to Dhalmora and let them and on my way there I found an argonian hiding know that the signal fires have been lit. I am to in some bushes. He said his three friends were talk to Aera Earth Turner. I have two paths I can lost in the area and if I saw them to send them take after talking to her and if I chose one the to Dhalmora, where they will all meet up. I had other might fail. Aera can not help me make the the way clear for him, so sent him on his way. His choice, but she can help me talk my way through name was Wenaxi. A lot of lost and misplaced it. I now have the fate of these people on my hands people out here. I could open a new business and and I have to make a choice. I will not tell you my call it - Lost and Found. Just outside Fort Zoran choice. A choice was made and I will have to live I discovered an Overlook that looks like you could with it. Let’s just say to some I am a hero and have have a grand party on it and the view was of the been sent to Davon’s Watch to report to Holgunn. plantation below. There is a wayshrine in Fort I shall rest a while in Davon’s Watch before I Zoran and I also found another skyshard behind adventure out. In my short walk through Devon’s the wayshrine. Watch, I have found the Fighter’s guild, Mage’s guild, Undaunted guild and many other people Iron-claws, the Argonian, was waiting for me needing help. outside of Fort Zoran and wanted to know if I would help him conduct an experiment using I shall end with this saying, “Life is full and I am Netch eggs. It sounded intriguing so long as I did glad to be alive.”
53 Darkshade Caverns By Christine Metz
e found ourselves once again of enchantment and increasing her knowledge of crossing paths, this time it was in magical weapons. For me, there is not much to tell Warea called Deshaan, a land that what I have been doing and who I have been living was a broad, fertile area in the southern mainland with over the last few months. One just has to look of Morrowind which slopes down and merges with at my eyes, they could see what I had become. the swamps of Black Marsh further south. Kyla Rose had sent word to the rest through the Mages We set out in late afternoon to the Selfora and Fighters guild that our skills would be needed Wayshrine, where we had planned to spend the once more by the Ebonheart Pact to investigate an night before pushing on in the early morning area called Darkshade Caverns. Over the course hours to Darkshade caverns. of the next few weeks, one by one we gathered at a small dirt village called Silent Mire.
I was the last to arrive of the group having been gone for many months on a task that I needed to achieve for myself in the lands of the Rift. The other three Kyla Rose, Selrina and Pops were staying at Seek-of-the Nights house when I arrived. We spent the night catching up on what each one of us had been doing over the last several months. Kyla Rose said she had been spending much of her time with our extended family in the north lands of Cyrodiil fighting in the Hopesfire campaign, trying to retake that lands that are rightfully ours by Pops took the first watch of the night as we all lay family. Pops simply said that he had been traveling down for rest by the campfire just outside of the the lands on one adventure to another not really Wayshrine. I had the feeling that there was unease giving us many details, as we have come to know in the air, as the others ate and had mead for their our leader for the four of us. Selrina, the closest evening meal, which I did not partake of. My food one I know of as family, explained that she had comes from a different source now and would not traveled many different lands learning the skills be one that the others would enjoy to take part in.
54 But we all must choose our paths, as I did mine, Foreman Lothian did not seem happy at all to see and we were happy with my choice in life. As the us in his office, as one would think he would call morning came to a shiny bright day we found our it. In fact he got downright nasty and the four group on a bridge leading up to the caverns. One of us had to put him in his place after he shot us would think that there was nothing amiss in this with nasty green thingies, as Selrina came to call area because of the beauty. them. But after running around and looking out for each other, the Foreman was now enjoying a very peaceful rest by the look of it.
Running up the tunnel we went through a door that led us out into what appeared to be a very old Upon entering the caverns, we started down a long city that once had held many races and riches from narrow tunnel that never seemed to end, but all the land above. But now it was only home to bugs around us were eggs of some kind that seemed to and giant netchs that no one would want to spend be in a state of growing or being farmed for some the night with, not alone their worst nightmare. use. As we rounded a turn in the cave we found As all good things come to pass, Kyla Rose led us a group of Pit Rat Thugs doing just that, taking into battle with these bugs of the underworld, with the eggs and carrying them away for who knows Pops handling the healing, what little was needed, what reason. After quickly sending these thugs as Selrina put the final spell on the Hive Lord to to their gods above, we pushed on further into bring him to an early grave of green blood and the cave. Standing in front of us was the leader of broken shells . this group of thugs, Head Shepherd Neloren. It turns out she is raising Kwama warriors and works for some plan of hers and her boss, the Foreman Lothian. Neloren had some tricks up her sleeve, but nothing that we could not take care of as she was finding out what made up the afterlife. Going deeper into the tunnels we had run across various groups of Kwama, both workers and warriors. One could say they make a good snack to munch on, if one likes dead bugs for breakfast. We came out to an open area where Lothian himself liked to hang around and tell his workers what a big shot he is down in this cavern, or mine as to what I am starting to believe it to be. As we come to a close to this simple story of four, we find ourselves facing the final trespasser of this cavern, the Sentinel of Rkugamz, a fearful beast one would say or simply another bug in the light that needed to be stepped on. When you come across him in your group, think about your skills as one and then as a whole because it will take the whole of all to bring this one down to his death.
55 Elder Scrolls Online Progress Report By: Benjamin “Foghladha” Foley
ith most games the first few Additionally, the unbalanced emperor system months set the tempo for the next and vampire skills in AvA caused droves to call it Wfew years. To the untrained eye quits after 4 players were able to decimate 150 in the fluctuations in numbers can cause panic and seconds. a false sense of impending doom. A lot of players have noticed that when we launched into Elder This issue for the most part has been resolved Scrolls Online we had over 1,300 players and and ZeniMax continues to issue new patches to currently at the time I am writing this article we’ve lengthen the engagements and give everyone a dropped to a little over 700 players. fair shot. Just recently we have had great fun hunting and repeatedly killing the Emperors. A First and foremost let me remind ourselves of a feat previously deemed impossible. time long past, the early days of RIFT. At launch we had over 2,200 registered members aiming So looking forward, the first campaign has ended to go full steam into RIFT. Right after the gates and in it’s place come several new campaign opened and we realized that the Siege Warfare options. We will be moving our efforts to a more promised in the game early on had been cut from populated campaign to work on getting our family the program and if more than 50 of us gathered in some additional exposure. one spot we couldn’t even see each other numbers dropped like a rock. Within the first 3 months we When the new Non-Veteran Rank campaigns are dropped from 2,200 to a little over 800. introduced we will be moving 1 event per week to that campaign to try to serve as an introduction Fast forward to the height of RIFT, and you’ll find to AvA and also help introduce new players to our that we actually did find the maximum number of community. people you could fit in a guild. Not because it gave us a warning saying “Guild Is Full” but because by I highly encourage anyone who hasn’t tried AvA pressing “G” you would crash your game. Trion recently to come out and experience the changes fixed the problem and we continued to grow to that ZeniMax has made thus far. the point that we had over 4,500 characters in the guild roster before the XML export ability broke. There are several larger changes coming in Update At our height a year after launch we were sitting at 2 and Update 3 including new campaigns and over 2,700 active members. more AvA refinement as well as the ability to dye your armor and even a Guild Emblem system! Ok The key to remember is that while this game may maybe I’m excited about that one. Guild branding be for some, it may not be for all. Some people are is a huge plus. looking for something specific, others just want to be part of the community. The key is player In any case over the next few months I suspect satisfaction. We want everyone to end the day we’ll see the same type of rise we saw in RIFT as with a smile on their face. the game thins out the players that are “Trying” the game and builds it’s foundation on the players Our first few months of Elder Scrolls Online have who are here to stay. been challenging to say the least. The loss of the Alliance system just before the final stages of beta Now it’s all up to us to show what we’re capable of put a serious dent in our ability to communicate in front of a larger audience. It’s showtime people across multiple guilds. This made that 500 person lets make a splash in our new campaign. guild cap hit even harder and caused the same thinning we saw in Guild Wars 2.
56 Elder Scrolls Online Spring Highlights By: Jessica Hunt
eniMax has made continuous efforts to improve their game and provide their players with a smooth gaming experience. They have also released some awesome Znew content lately for people who prefer to PvE and raid as well as providing some fixes to Cyrodil to ensure a more balanced experience for players.
● Each patch fixed a variety of issues affecting ● They fixed issues that were causing people gameplay with many fixes to quests that to freeze and crash out of the game. Mac were blocking progress in different zones. clients were fixed as they were having ● Zenimax introduced the ability to view the memory leaks and keyboard issues due to intro cinematic at any time. They fixed a languages. character creation bug that would not allow ● Zenimax reduced fees for guild stores and you to zoom in on your character’s face for mail, as well as the tax on what is sold in when you were creating your first character. guild stores. Armor repair costs were also ● There was a bug in guild banks and stores reduced. for a while and many people lost items. ● The first major content update introduces Zenimax provided patches to the game an adventure zone. Craglorn is designed and was able to fix these issues and restore for group adventuring for Veteran rank items. players. Trials are designed to be a test of ● They took measures to ensure that gold skill for 12 player groups where you have spammers and botters were not adversely a limited amount of resurrections to get to effecting the game and thanked everyone the final boss and beat them. Leaderboards for their patience. Part of this effort was were introduced to allow people to compete fixing open world dungeon boss camps by for more rewards. introducing a wait time after looting a delve ● Another feature is the addition of death or overworld boss before you are eligible recap. It was added to help players to receive loot from these types of bosses understand what killed them and to give again. them hints on how to improve. ● There were Alliance vs. Alliance changes ● The chests that are in dungeons now give for people who were ending up glitched and loot to everyone within a group within a couldn’t join the group they wanted to play 50 meter radius, the amount of chests per with. Fixes also included not being able to dungeon was reduced. use bolt escape with a scroll in your hand, ● Dark anchors now give chests to participants as well as fixing the scroll disappearing upon completion. when a vampire was in mist form. ● Added a new overhead icon for group ● Zenimax also fixed some server side leaders. issues in Cyrodil. They have made many ● The following crafting changes were made: adjustments to the vampire and werewolf Inspiration was increased per break for skill lines and abilities to prevent the raid most of the crafts. Provisioning was brought wiping that was going on in early launch in line with other crafts as far as value wise play. when selling to vendors. ● AvA also received boosts to experience and ● Increased Veteran ranks to rank 12 and the quests as well as help for factions that were amount of experience gained from killing greatly outnumbered. Server side fixes enemies. were made to improve overall performance ● Launched new community programs in Cyrodil. focusing on guilds, lore, builds, war stories and fanart.
The future of ESO looks bright and I look forward to many more adventures with the family!
57 Chapter 4
58 59 Exploring Queensdale By: Herb “OldGoat” Townsend
ueensdale is half of the new Kryta. It’s Qfarmland provides produce, livestock, and other goods to Divinity’s reach. The kingdom is ruled by Queen Jennah, one of the last descendants of King Doric. Her rule is challenged by separatists throughout the region. Bulk ingredients: Shaemoor Waypoint in the Resource nodes: • Apples in Bulk from Farmer Village of Shaemoor. Directly • Copper Ore/Rich Copper Eda south of Divinity’s reach, Vein • Nutmeg Seeds in Bulk from Shaemoor can be reached by the • Aspen Sapling Farmer Eda southernmost exit at the Plaza • Blueberry of Dwayna. Just a bit southwest • Button Mushrooms Recipes: we find the Point of Interest • Carrots • Eda’s Apple Pie Recipe from (POI) Trainer’s Terrace. (So • Herb Patch/Herb Seedlings Farmer Eda named because it’s the home of • Lettuce (node farm) - north- • Ettin Stew from Veteran skill trainers.) most field in Beetletun Farms Krug • Onions • Ascalonian Herbs from Landmark: Brother Vince • Shaemoor Cemetery • Eggs Beetletun from Assistant Chef Victor We begin our journey at the 60 Events: Back over the bridge to the north • Catch rabbits and return Events: we head northeast across Lake them to Arlo • Defend the garrison Delavan to enter Beggar’s • Prove that you know a lot • Defend the gate Burrow. There are actually about Destiny’s Edge • Defend Shaemoor Garrison two entrances to the Burrow. • Defeat the Lady in White (In from Tamini attackers The entrance accessible from the Cemetery) • Liberate Shaemoor Garrison Shaemoor Cemetery is only open during the personal story, From here, we make a slight Infiltration. There is a Splendid detour East then South over the Chest available in the burrow. bridge to Shaemoor Garrison There is also an Achievement, to find Garrison Waypoint. Bad Neighborhood which is received by fighting through the Hearts: mobs and opening the chest. • Assist the Seraph at Shaemoor Garrison Foes: • Bandit Cutpurse Vista: • Bandit Highwayman • Shaemoor Garrison Vista • Bandit Rifleman • Bandit Saboteur • Bandit Scout • Veteran Bandit Saboteur
Once we’ve completed the Beetletun Waypoint and Pet: achievement and gotten the Carnie Jeb’s Skillpoint are • Juvenile Krytan Drakehound chest, we exit back to Lake inside the village. Delavan and head northeast to Resource node: Eastern Divinity Dam. Hearts: • Aspen Sapling • Assist Fisherman Will and Pet: the fishermen of Beetletun • Juvenile River Drake • Support the citizens of Beetletun We then follow the Dam east until we arrive in the Shire of Vista: Beetletun, the location of the • Beetletun Vista –Simple dungeon Caudecus’s Manor. walk up and view.
61 Events: Resource nodes: • Defend Tunwatch Redoubt • Copper Ore/Rich Copper • Retake Tunwatch Redoubt Vein (Rich vein is inside • Rescue the captive farmers a cave in the southwest corner of the area. This cave Heading Southeast from here, we contains a veteran cave troll enter the Orlaf Escarpments also. Be careful not to use in which we can findCliffwatch the lever to close the cave just Camp POI. It is rumored that before you leave. The gate inside a shelter at the Tamini will keep you from being From the shire, we head directly camp there is a chest. I was lucky able to access the rich vein.) south to Beetletun Farms. and received a few empyreal • Aspen Sapling Beetletun Waterworks POI fragments among other low level is at the waterworks on the far items. Watch out for the Veteran Directly east of the foothills, we west side of the farms. Tamini Chief who may reappear find Demongrub Pits. This while you’re admiring your find. is the location of the jumping Heart: puzzle of the same name. It • Aid the Beetletun farmers Resource node: has three chests within it, each • Onions guarded by a veteran and normal Events: foes - one by spiders (looks like • Escort Moa Trainer Kappa an egg sack), one by skelk, and and her pygmy moas to the last by oozes. The chests Beetletun guarded by spiders and skelk • Escort the carnival caravan are false ends to the puzzle as to Beetletun the one guarded by oozes gives • Retake the farm and bring a Jumping Puzzles achievement. sprinkler pieces to Clarence • Stop the Tamini from There is an excellent guide for capturing farmers this jumping puzzle at Dulfy’s guide to the jumping puzzle
We now move south to the Taminn Foothills, adjacent to the Demongrub Pits. Taminn Foothills contains Bonegrinder’s Gully and Righteous Hoofmoot POI’s. You will also findTamini Place of Power Skill Challenge. (Commune)
Directly south of the farms Heart: Once we’ve completed the we run into Salma’s Heath. • Unite the ettins foothills and pits, we head due Named after Queen Salma, west to Godslost Swamp. who declared war on the White Event: Two waypoints, Godslost Mantle in the original Guild • Drive back Underworld Waypoint and Swamplost Wars. Here we find Tunwatch creatures by destroying Haven Waypoint, and two Redoubt Waypoint and portals in Taminn Foothills POI’s, Deathroot Shack and Hidden Cliff Camp POI. Temple of the Ages. Near the POI, a submerged Temple of the Ages contains a Commune
62 Skillpoint. The Godslost and there are two POI’s Eldvin Swamp Vista is on the island Monastery and Holdland near the center of the swamp. Camp. This vista is up a slope in the center of the swamp, to go up Heart: you need to use the roots of a • Help the monastery brewers, tree directly west of Deathroot this heart can be assisted Shack POI. during the Drive Back the Centaurs, Return Stolen Directly north of the waypoint, Heart: Kegs, and Protect the Brew follow the crossroad west into • Help Historian Garrod Shipment events. the Queen’s Forest. Just off of investigate Godslost this road you will find Kappa’s Swamp (both events below Events: Corral POI. Farther North is the contribute to this heart.) • Escort the carnival caravan Hunting Lodge POI. Ojon’s to Beetletun Lumbermill Waypoint marks Events: • Drive back Underworld the lumbermill to the west. • [Group Event] Defeat the creatures by destroying shadow behemoth portals in the monastery Hearts: • [Group Event] Drive back • Drive back the centaurs • Assist Laborer Cardy Underworld creatures by before they steal the and Ojon’s lumbermill destroying portals in the monastery’s ale (Contributing events are Stop swamp • Return stolen kegs of ale to the Skritt Thieves, Retrieve Abbot Mathias Stolen Logging Tools, and Resource nodes: • Destroy Holdland Camp’s Help Slim Mikhart) • Copper Ore weapon caches before they • Assist Hunter Block and the • Aspen Sapling amass a counter attack hunting lodge (Contributing • Gather ruined grapes from event, Hunt and Slay the Other: Victoria’s vineyard Giant Boar.) • Also A nameless book can be • Prevent the Tamini from found near Deathroot Shack retaking Holdland Camp Events: in Godslost Swamp. Reading • Protect the brew shipment • Help Slim Mikhart destroy through it fully will spawn a the skritt cave support (7) Veteran Fleshreaver. Resource Nodes: • Retrieve stolen logging tools • Copper Ore from the skritt hideout (7) • Aspen Sapling • Stop skritt thieves from • Blueberry Bush stealing logging tools (7) • Herb Seedlings • [Group Event] Destroy the • Onions wasp queen (9) • Herd the pygmy moas into Vista: the pen (9) • Krytan Freeholds Vista - • Escort Moa Trainer Kappa Overlook the Hold. To get and her pygmy moas to to the vista just climb the Beetletun (10) slope west of the Krytan • [Group Event] Hunt and slay Waypoint. the giant boar (10)
Pet: Moving north and slightly east • Juvenile Forest Spider (on a from the swamp, we enter a hill southeast of the Hunting very busy location named the Lodge heart) Krytan Freeholds. There is a waypoint, Krytan Waypoint
63 Resource nodes: • Collect skale eggs for Events: • Copper Ore Assistant Chef Victor • Capture Heartwood Pass • Aspen Sapling • Defend Altar Brook Trading Camp from the Tamini Post • [Group Event] Defeat the Southwest to Windloss • Drive the Tamini from Altar champion rotting ancient Delves, a small skritt cave with Brook Trading Post oakheart an entrance on the northeast • Drive back Underworld side and another on the Resource nodes: creatures by destroying southwest side. You may have • Copper Ore portals in the Heartwoods already accessed the cave while • Aspen Sapling • Hold Heartwood Pass Camp completing events. • Blueberry Bush Pet: Resources node: • Juvenile Boar (between • Copper Ore the two hills north-east of Claypool)
Resource nodes: • Aspen Sapling • Blueberry Bush • Button Mushrooms • Herb Seedlings
Southeast of Scaver Plateau we find Phinney Ridge. (This Continue southwest into Scaver area is named after James Plateau. Scaver Waypoint Phinney, a former Design near the center. Further Director of ArenaNet.) It holds southwest you’ll find Altar Phinney Waypoint. Brook Trading Post POI. We now continue our westward The area has two skill challenges, Resource nodes: swing and enter the Township Chhk the Windmill King • Copper Ore/Rich Copper of Claypool. The town contains which is a fight, (watch out for Vein a single waypoint, Claypool his knockback), and Earthen • Aspen Sapling Waypoint. Magic which is a commune. • Blueberry Bush Heart: Heart: We now head west into The • Train with the militia • Help Lexi Price protect the Heartwoods. Heartwood trade route (contributing Pass Camp Waypoint is in the Pet: events are Defend Altar east. Head north to Greatheart • Juvenile Pig Brook Trading Post, Drive Weald POI. the Tamini from Altar Brook Resource nodes Trading Post, and Escort Heart: • Copper Ore and Defend Workers.) • Help the Seraph protect • Aspen Sapling Claypool from centaurs • Blueberry Bush Events: (Capture Heartwood Pass • [Group Event] Defeat the and Hold Heartwood Pass Directly west of the township greater earth elemental are both contributing events is Clayent Falls, with Duran • Defend Barthol on his way to to this heart.) Brother’s Docks POI . the Old Armory
64 Vista: Events: • Clayent Falls Vista (On the • Escort the trading post east side of the house, at the caravan to Claypool top of the ramp, there is a • Defend Altar Brook Crossing wooden rafter leading from • Drive the bandits from the roof. Jump on top of the Curtis’s ranch post in front of the rafter. • Escort and defend workers Jump on the rafter and then sent to rebuild the guard walk to the roof.) tower • Protect the ranchers from Events: bandits • Defend the beehives from hungry bears Resource nodes: • Collect grub remains for Ine • Copper Ore • Slay the giant fish to protect • Aspen Sapling the fishing waters • Blueberry Bush • Carrots Resource nodes: • Herb Seedlings • Copper Ore/Rich Copper Vein Bandithaunt Caverns, not to • Aspen Sapling be confused with the Troll cave • Blueberry Bush nearby, can be reached just west Vista: • Carrots of the Bandit Loot Skill Point. • Altar’s Windings Vista (Travel up the slope, the vista is easily reached to the southern bend.)
Event: • [Group Event] Slay the enraged cave troll (This is the troll that is part of the Vista: train that many people run • Bandithaunt Caverns Vista daily to farm.) In the eastern portion of the Going north we find ourselves cave, cross the bridge and Resource nodes: in Altar Brook Vale. We head up the spiraling slope. • Copper Ore/Rich Copper like to take this area in a Vein counterclockwise manner, Events: • Aspen Sapling starting with Altar Brook • Rescue Mepi’s moa herd • Button Mushrooms Crossing POI. Working our from the bandit caves (4) way back, we hit the Bandit • [Group Event] Eliminate the After we’ve had all the fun we Loot Skill Challenge. At bandit lieutenant (5) can in this area, we head north this point, you can either finish along the path into Pinion this zone, or take a detour into Once we finish in the caverns we Trail. Ettins and Harpies galore Bandithaunt Caverns as head back to Vale Waypoint and is my nickname for this trail. shown below. Vale Waypoint start north to get to the bottom At the end of the trail, through will lead you also to Altar’s of the hill. Then we go south to the caves, you’ll find Erts Jug Windings which we will get to reach the vista. Note: Directly of Power Unguent Skill shortly. below the vista is an entrance to Challenge. the Troll’s Cave. Resource node: • Copper Ore
65 • Help Farmhand Paris collect apples for Eda’s famous pies • Kill the huge spider in Eda’s Orchard • Stop the bandits from poaching Mepi’s moas
Resource Nodes: • Copper Ore • Aspen Sapling • Carrots • Herb Seedlings • Onions
Western Divinity Dam has a single vista and heart and two events. Western Divinity Dam Vista (This vista is pretty straight forward. Make sure you stay on the wooden planks)
Heart: • Help Foreman Flannum
Continuing north we find • Drive the bandits away from Events: ourselves in Shaemoor the windmill • Drive the harpy flock from Fields. I like to split this one • Kill the giant wurm tearing the dam into two parts. The first part is up Jeb’s field • Stop the elder earth moving north on the left until we • Protect the hay bales from elemental from destroying get to Western Divinity Dam. bandits the dam After completing the Dam, • Bring blobs of toxin to head back south to Shaemoor Apprentice Jameson Resource node: Fields and finish the last zone • Defend workers repairing • Copper Ore of the map. I start with Mepi’s the pumping station Moa Ranch POI, work my • Kill the river drake And there we have it. The entire way north to Eda’s Orchard broodmother zone of Queensdale. POI and Orchard Waypoint. • Prevent the bandits from I then move into Western blowing up the water pipes Divinity Dam. • Protect Shaemoor’s drinking water from bandits Hearts: • Stop the bandit thief from • Help Farmer Diah stealing the pumphouse • Help Fisherman Travis and blueprints Fisherman Justin • Clear the orchard of spiders • Assist Farmer Eda for Farmer Eda • Help Cassie around the moa • Defend Farmhand Nevin as ranch he transports his cocooned friend to safety Events: • Defend Mepi from bandits • Bandits have constructed a • Drive the rogue bull back roadblock to stop Shaemoor home, and fix any mayhem traffic on the way
66 67 68 69 Caudecus’s Manor Story Mode Dungeon Guide By: Herb “OldGoat” Townsend Welcome to Gaiscioch’s Caudecus’ Manor Story Mode Dungeon Guide. Our goal is to put together the absolute best dungeon guides available for Guild Wars 2. Special thanks to Xensa, Dee, Zababa, and Rev for their incredible support and help getting the screenshots and refreshing my memory for this dungeon guide. You guys are absolutely the best.
We suggest when you’re faced with a group of mobs that you target in the following order of priority.
1. Bombers, Grenadiers, or Saboteurs – The entrance to Caudecus’ Manor is in the Shire of Area of Attack (AOE) bomb attacks can do Beetletun in Queensdale massive damage in a short time, so take these baddies out first. We enter the dungeon and immediately see 2. Snipers – These deal massive damage from a Albert, the butler. Go up the stairs and through distance, and are hard to avoid. the doorway and hall to find the courtyard. Talk 3. Fighters – These can be defeated by ganging to Captain Logan Thackeray to begin the first cut up on them. scene. It seems that Logan fears for the Queen’s 4. Sergeants – Do more damage to those that safety. Uzolan the inventor is supposed to show off are moving first. Anti-range works best, and his newest invention. After the cut scene, talk to the Mesmer skill Feedback is the best defense/ the guests and staff with this symbol above their offense. heads: 5. Lieutenants – Anti-range, anti-projectile. 6. Captains – Will use condition removal
This star icon will appear above the heads of some NPCs
70 There are three questions for each person. The Wall of Reflection and the Mesmer skill Feedback fastest way to get through this is to assign question are all valuable skills in this fight. This has been 1, 2, and 3 to individuals and have those individuals called the most difficult fight of the dungeon, and ask each target their one question. Eventually, the in fact it can be if you’re not ready for it. Gaiscioch star goes back to Logan, and you then speak to parties have defeated the golem with level 40 him. That will start the fight. characters. You can, too. Don’t forget to loot the first of four chests right by the stairs.
Once the golem has been defeated, follow the sparkle trail to find the way.
Follow the little lights. There is peace and serenity in the lights.
The trail will lead you to the Champion Door Guard. He will refuse to open the door and then the fight will begin.
Uzolan’s golem has two main attacks: a spinning fire attack and a spinning rocket attack. The rocket attack will give you no red circles to dodge out of. You have to see the attack begin and then dodge behind something. He will also pull you in if you are too close and his damage can be massive if you don’t dodge out. We have our best luck by attacking him at range from behind the hedges and trees. When the rocket attacks start, dodge backwards to hide behind the bushes. Guardians’ “Wall of Reflection” works against the rocket attack but not the flame attack. If you keep at it and are able to avoid damage by dodging and hiding, this fight will last a short while. If you are unable to avoid the rockets and the flames? It will take much longer. The Door Guard before he attacks
71 The Door Guard can be a tough champion, but he’s not invincible That big glowing thing must surely be the door switch This champion level guard has a lot of HP and can do a lot of damage if you try to fight him toe- In the outer tunnel, you’ll find the lieutenant. He to-toe. We like to kite him and keep hitting him can do a lot of ranged damage. Anti-projectile from everywhere. Tanks can jump in and out of defense is helpful. Mesmer’s Feedback and the fight, trying to catch him from behind. Range Guardian’s Wall of Reflection are my favorites. damage dealers can stay on the stairs and still hit Once the lieutenant has been defeated, look him. If everyone keeps attacking him, he will go around the corner to see a lieutenant, a sergeant, down, and the door will open. Important: resist and a fighter. We like to take the fighter first, then the urge to charge through the door. the sergeant. The lieutenant is the same as the one you just killed and shouldn’t give you much We like to have our guardian put up Wall of trouble. Avoid getting too close to the adjoining Reflection right at the door as we kite the trash room, since there are a few more mobs in there. mobs out. Then, keep hitting them while they’re Once these three are finished, go after the rest. stuck in the door. It takes less time than having to Once all the mobs are cleared, wake Sigfast with chase them all around the room. We are usually a cold bucket of water, and he’ll unlock the door able to kill all these mobs in two or three groups. to the outside. Don’t forget to loot the third chest Chest number two is in this room. in here. Right next to the chest are steps leading down to the cellar. Again, resist the urge to charge down these stairs. Instead, we like to send a ranger or warrior with a bow down to “call” or pull mobs towards us and then run back up into the room. The rest of us then join the fight. Sometimes, our ranger doesn’t get back to the top of the stairs, and we then fight the mobs on the stairs. Be careful not to go down the stairs too far, since you can aggro another group of bad guys if you get too close.
Again, once the first group is done, bring some Heading towards the last tunnel more enemies back. We usually can get them all in two or three attacks. Once they’re dispatched, Outside, we have an enemy group immediately we find a small group by a door in the cellar that past the door. Use the range and draw method to includes Uzolan. He runs off as we defeat the bring them inside, and then finish them quickly. guards. Once they’re down, there is a switch to Once they’re gone, clear the two groups of hounds open the door to the outer tunnels. controlled by a lieutenant each. Again, hit them at range and draw them to your location to keep from having to fight them both. Beware the group of mobs in the trees and stay far enough away to keep them out of the fight. This is one of the spots where it is very easy for the party to wipe out if you rush in. You can take care of them after the dog
72 packs are gone. most of the dungeons I’ve run, this fight is an anti- climactic battle. You do want to be careful with We usually move into the trees on the left and the sergeant whose range attacks do more damage take out the bombers and snipers we can see first. when you’re moving, and Captain DeLana who Enemy fighters will attack, and they will be easily can cause temporary blindness with the ranged dispatched. Once the ground is clear, work up the attacks. ramp going around the tree and kill everything in your path. At the top there will be a lieutenant. And that’s the dungeon we call Caudecus’s manor. The mobs in this group are normal with lower Once the Queen has been saved, you have a few HP. You should be able to take everyone. If you’re minutes for a photo shoot and then move on to lower level, use the range and draw method on the your next adventure. fighters while staying out of sight of the snipers. Once this group is cleared, release Mia Kindleshot from the cage, and she’ll tell you where to find the Queen. On your way to the final battle, don’t miss the chest in the field.
Congratulations! You rescued the Queen!
Poor Mia Kindleshot looks pretty cramped in that cage
At the top of the valley, you’ll find Queen Jennah inside a protective bubble. Captain DeLana, a sergeant, and two fighters are trying to figure out how to get her out. We usually take out the fighters, the sergeant and then finally the Captain. As in
73 How to Lead a Group in a Dungeon By: Herb “OldGoat” Townsend
e’ve all heard the complaints. 1. It has to be fun. If my party isn’t having Someone used a pick-up fun, I’m either too serious or haven’t been Wgroup (PUG) for Twilight explaining everyone’s “job” well enough. GW2 Arbor, and it was a horrible experience. dungeons all have times where teamwork is Someone felt completely lost during a required. If someone doesn’t feel like part of speed run and eventually got booted from the team, I’m not leading correctly. If some- the party. The party leader expected some- one feels picked on, rushed, or even not val- one to know the dungeon and wasn’t very ued, it’s probably not a good time for them. patient when that person acted confused. These kind of dungeon runs are no fun. 2. Everything’s better with Voice. Typing Why are we playing when it’s not fun? takes time and fingers away from the bat- tle. Speaking can be done while still fighting, When I lead a party through a dungeon, I have a casting spells, healing, etc. Even if some of the few very important rules. party don’t have microphones, it’s much eas- ier for us all if the leader can talk to us. Plus, it’s more fun. Raidcall is free, and we can help you get set up in just a few minutes.
74 3. Whoever is driving should know the 7. Stay until it’s over. Nothing is more frus- dungeon pretty well. Now, this doesn’t trating than having to wait for someone over necessarily mean that the I as a leader need and over again. Now, I’m not saying it’s not to have every step memorized, but I should okay to give short breaks during a dungeon. be somewhat familiar with it. It’s okay to use I’m just saying make sure you don’t leave external resources like GW2 Wiki or anoth- people hanging around waiting for you to get er dungeon guide to help jog the memory. back. I would not suggest anyone lead a dungeon without having been through it a few times as 8. Plan. Yes, plan. Look at your party. Do you a party member. have a guardian? Warrior? Elementalist? Who will be needed for what task? If anyone has to 4. Give clear instructions. This means just change characters before starting, it should be what it says. The leader, or whoever that the leader first. I’m not saying you need put leader has designated for that boss or activi- together a perfect group. I prefer to run with ty, should give clear instructions to describe what I’ve got and make my plan based on the each task. If there are red circles that become party makeup. Just be prepared. spike traps, say so. Don’t just say “watch out for the red circles.” Say “the red circles are 9. Speed runs are like having a job. I don’t spike traps, you can avoid them by timing really do well in speed runs. They remind me your run or finding some other way to get by too much of being at work: “Hurry up and them.” Don’t say, “okay when I start this fight, get it done.” No time for chit chat, kill it and somebody go after the Golem.” Try instead, “I move on. I’ve had bosses like that. Don’t be need a volunteer who wants to kite the golem that “leader.” Be the one who takes the time to and keep him away from us while we kill the cause rule number 1 to be followed. engineer.” 10. Be careful what you say. We don’t 5. Ask for suggestions from the party. Yes, really know each other as well online as if we I just said that. It’s way more fun for everyone saw each other face to face. In a dungeon, we to feel involved in the planning stage of each know each other by voice or in-game chat. fight. Asking for suggestions makes it OUR It’s important to remember we all come from DUNGEON. That will add to the satisfaction different places. Stay away from the deadly factor at the end. conversation topics: politics, religion, and anything else that might cause hurt feelings. 6. POSITIVE FEEDBACK. I don’t mean the “good job” we say almost automatically, I mean the “wow Goat, you really nailed that And there you have my rules for a successful, fun troll at the end. Nice!” Or maybe, “Wow you dungeon experience. Remember, you’re an ad- guys really pulled me out of the fire that time. venture leader, not a “boss.” Don’t bark orders. Thanks.” Make it sincere and look for reasons Get agreement before the plan is put into action. to pass out the compliments. LISTEN to your group. I’ve learned a lot of my “tricks of the trade” by listening to everyone in the party. A few times, listening to my teammate has saved me from an embarrassing wipe.
The key is fun. If it’s not fun, it’s not worth doing!
75 ranger had no place left to go and no money left to get there. Dressed in his worn battlecoat, The Manor dusty breeches, and ancient boots, he watched as Precious, his tiny kitten, wandered around on the By Herb “OldGoat” Townsend floor, picking up scraps that other patrons had dropped from their supper plates. Harry worried he would be unable to provide for his companion. As he sat staring at the paper, his drink appeared at his side and he said, “Thank you, keep the change, sweetie.” Picking at a loose hair on his worn, stained jacket, the ranger picked up the glass and suddenly felt someone scratching that perfect place behind his ears. He closed his eyes and sighed. A familiar voice in his ear said, “Why so glum?” Harry immediately realized who the voice belonged to and he stood up, grinned, and turned to embrace Terri Watson. Precious jumped on the table and joined the hug, meowing her welcome. Terri, dressed in a beautiful gold silk gown, picked up the kitten and nuzzled her. “Hi there Precious, how have you been?” Sitting down in the chair next to Harry, Terri nodded toward the stage, put her finger to her lips, arry sat in the Dead End Bar nursing and turned to watch the singer. Harry sat back his drink. It was Saturday night and down and turned his attention to the stage. H the room was packed with regulars, the commoners of Divinity’s Reach. Working class The lights went down as a rough bluesy sound beer drinkers, sometimes a bit rowdy, always loud, touched their ears and the spotlight illuminated it was his kind of place. The floor was covered with the singer as she walked to the center of the small sand, as much for the dancers as to soak up the dais. Harry’s surprised look made Terri smile spills, and the bar smelled as comfortable as well again. On the stage was Maggatha Lynne, her dress aged beer. As the waitress walked by, he gruffly a deep, blood red, slit to the hip. Harry noticed it asked her for another, dropping his last coin on went perfectly with her hair. As the crowd quieted, her tray. she began to sing “Caught in Scarlett’s Rain.” Her voice’s pure emotion filled the hushed room. He was almost relieved he couldn’t get drunk The song, a raw melancholy piece described the tonight. In his hand was the crumpled eviction destruction of Lion’s Arch by Scarlett’s evil as notice from his landlord. He had quietly spent seen through the eyes of a young woman who lost the evening waiting for inspiration. The Charr
76 everything, including the man she loved. is usually a good judge of character, Logan. You When the song was over, the room erupted must have caught her on a bad day.” with wild applause and cheers. Maggie smiled Bones slapped Logan on the back, nearly at the crowd and began her next number. This knocking him out of the chair. The Captain coughed song talked about being madly in love and fearing as he worked to catch his breath again. The blond it would end. By the time she finished, even the Norn pulled up a chair of his own and looking at rough-and-tumble Harry was wiping tears from Maggie shook his head, “Such a big beautiful voice his eyes. As the evening wore on, Harry forgot his from such a tiny little girl.” troubles and allowed the music to fill him. After her “Don’t make me hurt you.” Maggie grinned final song, Maggie came to their table, hugged him with a sparkle in her eye, as she stood and hugged and head butted with the kitten. She then turned the giant. to Terri, and with a sparkle in her eye asked, “Well, Terri joined in and it was obvious to the entire how’d I do?” room that the three shared a bond. Precious, not “You had old scruffy here crying,” Terri replied, to be outdone, jumped on the Norn’s lap when he tipping her head towards the Charr. sat and began to rub against his chest, claiming Harry blurted out, “I didn’t know you could ownership. Harry reached across the table and sing like that. That was amazing!” grabbed the big hand with his paw. Logan sat “Oh, I’m not all that,” Maggie said as a rosy quietly observing, noticing how close they all were. color flushed across her cheeks. Suddenly an unmistakable voice came from “The heck you’re not,” Terri grabbed her and behind, “Hey Bookahs, how’re my favorite kissed her soundly, silencing any further modesty. adventurers doing?” Then, taking advantage of the band, Terri took her “Mellen!” they all shouted in unison. out on the dance floor. And just like that, they were all together again. By the time the girls got back to the table, Bones retold the story of their adventure in the someone had bought the three of them a round Ascalonian Catacombs. Laughter filled the room as of drinks. Looking around, Maggie spotted the he recalled his own foolishness and the subsequent culprit at the bar. Logan Thackeray was watching rescue by the group. Onlookers gathered round them. Dressed in his common clothes, he looked and heard the entire story, including Maggie’s strangely out of place without his uniform. She fierce defense of them all against the king. Finally waved him over to their table. He picked up his standing, and with a tear running down his cheek, drink and then tripped over the kitten who wound he toasted to her courage and leadership. between his legs. He dropped into the chair Harry “Litt storesøster, I pledge to you my life. I will kicked out for him. Precious took an immediate follow you anywhere, you have only to ask.” dislike to Logan and hissed at the hand reaching Just as quickly he fell back into his chair, nearly down to pet her. Logan yelped suddenly as a claw toppling over as the legs threatened to buckle.. drew blood, and the pet scampered away behind Harry. “You’re drunk,” accused a booming female voice. A booming Norn voice startled them, “Precious
77 “Of course I am drunk. I am drunk with love for They all looked at the Asuran. Mellen leaned in you, Electra!” so that only they could hear, “I think I may know The tall female Norn, bent down and put her something, but let’s not talk about it here. There arms around Bones and bit him gently on the ear. are too many ears in this room.” “Introduce me to your friends, kjæreste.” She “It’s late, where are you all staying?” Terri whispered softly. asked. His eyes glistened with love, as he pulled Electra said simply, “We were supposed to her into his lap, “I would like you all to meet my spend the night upstairs in a room, but they’re full. beautiful bride. Electra Arrow Heart, the most Is there an inn nearby?” wonderful woman I have ever known.” Terri answered firmly, “We have plenty of The group smiled and welcomed her openly. room in our house. Please, all of you, come stay Electra’s krytan hound, Simon, joined in with the with us. We need to discuss this, and I doubt we’ll traditional dog greeting ceremony, all slobber and get much sleep tonight.” sniff. Precious immediately touched noses with the “Harry? Mellen?” Maggie asked. dog and they instantly became fast friends. Logan Both simply nodded, and they all finished their sat quietly watching the interchange between drinks while Maggie went to the bar to settle the the individuals at the table. Finally, when he was tab. The bartender told her that it had all been satisfied, he stood and cleared his throat to gain taken care of by Logan Thackeray. She returned their attention. to the table and gathered her things. Harry had “I am happy to have met each of you. I can see turned to put the kitten into his backpack, and the bond between you, and I would like to ask your Terri snuck a look at the document he had been help with a most disturbing concern of mine. But, wrinkling up in his paws all night. She looked at this is not the time or place for this discussion. I Harry who was staggering a bit from all the beer would like to meet all of you tomorrow for dinner at Logan had bought him. Pretending to wipe off the my home on Manor Hill. It is of utmost importance table, she swept the paper into her bag, putting that you attend. Please be there at eight PM.” her finger to her lips when Maggie gave hera As he turned to leave the group, he shook questioning look. Maggie’s hand, placing a small square of paper They all followed Maggie and Terri up the hill to secretly in her palm. The others sat stunned by a pretty little house, ornate in a simple way, the yard his invitation, curiosity squinting in their eyes. filled with flower beds that were in mid blossom. Maggie stood as they watched him leave, her mind It was hidden between two apartment buildings filling with questions as well. Then turning to the near the center of the Eastern Commons. Maggie group, she said, “What do you guys think?” showed Bones and Electra the spare bedroom, “I have no idea,” came Terri’s bewildered reply. Mellen was given a soft loveseat in Terri’s office, “You can’t trust him.” Harry crossed his arms and Harry and the kitten were left with the long over his chest. couch in the living room. Terri and Maggie sat on either side of the young ranger as Terri produced Bones stroked his chin, “The fact that he gave the eviction notice. “When were you going to tell us no chance to decline tells me it’s important.”
78 us about this?” she asked. between the Humans and Charr. Caudecus is going “I can take care of myself,” was his sullen reply. to show off his personal inventor, Uzolan.” Maggie put her hand on his shoulder and The Asuran, silent until now, cleared his throat. said, “Yes, you can. But we’re your friends and we Everyone turned to listen. “Logan’s not the only want to help. Besides, I don’t want Precious to be one worried about the Queen. Minister Caudecus’ homeless.” butler, Albert, let it slip to me two nights ago that there have been many changes and additions to Terri stated simply, “You’ll stay here until the staff based on Uzolan’s suggestions.” you figure out what you want to do. At least until tomorrow, when we find out what Logan is Silence enveloped them, with only the planning? I won’t hear any argument about it. occasional sound of someone sipping hot tea. You saved both our lives more than once in the Maggie’s brow gave away her deep thought. Catacombs. You are family, and that’s that.” Finally, Bones broke the silence, “The Queen once sent a squadron of soldiers to fortify my village “I’m not going to be a burden.” against a Svanir attack and saved my father’s life. “We know that. You might as well stop If she is in danger, I will stand by her.” protesting. When Terri makes up her mind, that’s “As will I,” Terri whispered softly, “The queen the end of it.” Maggie was serious. performed our marriage in spite of those who “What’s going on?” Mellen had come out of the spoke out against us.” office. “Yes,” Maggie nodded. “Harry has just agreed to help Maggie and me Harry’s voice was soft, “She spoke at my by staying here with us and sharing expenses.” father’s funeral after he was killed at Claw Island. Terri smiled. “Afterward she took me aside and gave me his Mellen replied, “A wonderful idea.” medal.” The tears began running down his face. Just then Bones and Electra came in and said “She had it made in the shape of an apple.” in unison, “So, what’s the plan?” His friends shared his sadness. The group Since it was going to be a long night, Terri went embraced him as the kitten began to purr. Electra’s to the kitchen to boil a large pot of water for tea. Krytan Hound could be heard outside as he howled Maggie produced the secret square of paper. It along with Harry’s sadness. Eventually, the mood held the Queen’s own seal and was an invitation to began to lift, and Harry began thanking his friends. Lord Caudecus’s Manor at the end of the month. “I’m sorry, I generally don’t get melancholy.” “So, it has to do with the Queen. Do you think “Oh stop,” replied Terri. “We all go there. You’ve she’s in danger?” asked Mellen. just got to realize that we are here for you. We are your friends, we are your family now. This bond “I think Logan thinks she’s in danger,” replied we have formed was no accident. It was destiny. Bones, “It’s hard to know if she really is. Logan We came together at just the right moment in our hasn’t told us anything yet.” lives. Everything happens for a reason, and the Harry tugged one of the kitten’s ears and said, reason for our joining will show itself eventually.” “I’ve heard a rumor. It’s a celebration of the treaty “In spite of her non-scientific way of putting it,
79 I must agree,” stated Mellen. “We are meant to be us have what we would consider a regular job. We together. I am normally much more comfortable make money doing odd jobs, treasure hunting, with my own people, but with each and all of you, body guarding, so on and so forth.” I feel as if I belong. We are symbiotic in some “We take what work we can find, when and manner. I believe we may have been connected by where we can find it,” chimed in Bones. “What’s the Foefire when we slew the King.” wrong with that?” “Electra? You’ve only just met us, how do you “Nothing’s wrong with it, but how often do we feel?” Asked Maggie. worry about where the rent is going to come from? “I feel it as well, although Bones has told me Or how often do you have the money to do what about each of you. The moment I met you in the you want, when you want?” bar, I knew we were connected. I can’t explain “That’s not the kind of lives we have,” said it. My mother would have called it kismet. I call Terri. “We live day to day.” it destiny. And I can tell you feel it as well. We “Exactly my point. How would you all like to have nothing to hide from each other. I am both have a steady income AND have more than you do honored and a bit bewildered, but I already know now?” I would follow you anywhere. With that, the group hugged once more and everyone went to bed. “Who wouldn’t?” was Maggie’s reply. With the next day’s mysteries still on their minds, “Then I have a proposition for you all.” With sleeping was difficult for them all. that Mellen began to outline his plan. “Let me put together the business side of things and work as your agent. I will find work and make sure you # get paid more than you’re used to and still have salvage rights for anything you find on the job. Morning found Maggie in the kitchen drinking Let me begin by discussing the business side with coffee and making breakfast. Her motto was Logan this evening.” pancakes for all, and she had built up quite a Harry looked skeptical, “How do we know that stack when Electra showed up with an offer of you know what you’re doing? What if you end up help. Maggie smiled, poured her a large mug and losing the job for us?” handed her the spatula. One by one the friends, “Well, do you trust that I am more intelligent smelling breakfast and the coffee, appeared at the than Logan? Give me one chance on this job here. kitchen door. Breakfast soon became a loud, joyful Then while the five of you go do the job, I’ll put time. together more work for you. I can assist when I am After breakfast, everyone went to the backyard needed, however, but we split the money evenly to soak up the warmth of the sun. The chatter went between us. I’m going to ask for two Gold for each from Logan’s meeting to Lord Caudecus’s Manor, of us from Logan. If I succeed, we each take one but as time passed to noon, Mellen stood up and gold, and put the other gold into the business. I said, “I would like to discuss a little business with might even be able to get us a house that we can all all of you.” live in just outside the city. Everyone’s attention was on Mellen. “None of
80 The group erupted into discussion with many florist cart, each lady was presented with a delicate differing viewpoints being aired. Mellen answered bouquet. every question thoroughly. Finally, Maggie stood A wagon stopped beside them, and with a tip of up and began to pound on the table. “It’s nearly 3, his hat, the driver offered a lift. we have much to do to get prepared. I would like to “We can’t afford to pay you today William, put this to a vote. Does anyone object?” besides it is such a beautiful evening.” Maggie No one raised a hand or voice. replied. “Okay, all in favor of giving Mellen a chance to “No need for payment, my dear, Logan improve our income, say aye.” Thackeray sent me to fetch you.” A chorus of ayes rang out. “In that case, thank you. Perhaps you can insure “All opposed to the idea?” we won’t be more than fashionably late.” Not a sound from any of the friends. With a large smile, the driver said simply, “Okay Mellen, you’ve got your chance. Tell us “Hang on.” what you need us to do.” Maggie looked expectantly Soon they were all stepping off the wagon into at the Asuran. the courtyard of the Thackeray mansion. Logan “I have the plan, so you can ask him anything assisted the ladies off the wagon and then turned you need to know about the job. But, when it comes to each man and shook his hand. “Welcome to my to the money, leave that to me. If he really wants home,” was his simple greeting. our help, he will pay us a retainer which will allow “Thank you for having us.” said Mellen, us to get any supplies we need, and perhaps even establishing himself as the communicator for the buy some information.” group. “Agreed” said Maggie. Now let us get dressed, They were escorted to the dining hall, where we leave in forty minutes. they found a grand feast laid out before them. Once The rushing about began as they all tried to they were all seated and served, Logan waved the make themselves as presentable as possible for servants away, and they were alone. such a formal dinner invitation. Harry had the “Eat, enjoy, we will save our business for after most difficult time, but with Electra and Terri’s the meal, unless you have questions that will not help, he was soon made to look very handsome in wait.” Logan, ever the polite host, started the his black leather suit and silver bow tie. Terri even conversation. fitted Precious the kitten and Electra’s hound with Mellen answered, “The only question I have is matching ties. Simon was given a quick bath to about compensation.” eliminate a foul odor he had rolled in earlier that “Always the businessman, Mellen. Give the man day. a few moments to gather his thoughts,” interjected They assembled themselves outside the front Maggie. “Business can be discussed after dinner.” door and began the walk to the Logan family’s With that the conversation turned to more mansion. Such a fine sight they made that they mundane things, such as what were they eating, caught the attention of the neighbors, and at the where did this delicious beast come from, and so
81 on. A few anecdotes were told at Logan’s expense. reputation as a bargainer precedes you. I have no He took it all gracefully, and soon they were desire to quibble into the night. This is my offer.” laughing and enjoying themselves in the manner Mellen looked at Maggie with a question, she of friends. nodded her head slightly. He turned his large eyes When they had eaten their fill and more, Logan back to the Captain. “It is acceptable, considering rang his bell and dessert was served. A huge cake, what we know at this time. I hold to my right to baked in the shape of the elder Dragon Zhaitian counter your offer should the need arise.” was brought in. The unspoken challenge was Logan opened his desk and removed a cloth accepted and soon the cake was devoured. bag. “I expect this will take care of your expenses. Finally, Logan led them all into the next room. Should anything more arise prior to next week’s It was filled with soft chairs and couches, the festival, please contact me here in the evenings. ladies found comfortable pillows on the floor. The My servants have been told you are contractors, bar along the wall held all manner of spirits, and hired to work on one of my properties in the Logan provided bartender service. countryside.” Once everyone was seated, with drinks in hand, “What what can you tell us about this Uzolan?” Logan began, “I’ve asked you here to help me Maggie asked. protect the Queen. It may be nothing, but I have “I’ve heard he is controlling Caudecus, and that reason to believe Lord Caudecus and his inventor he has ties to the Separatist movement. Demmi Uzolan mean to do her harm. I cannot allow it. I’ve Beetlestone brought him to my attention. She asked you here because you’ve proven yourselves told me her father had begun acting strangely worthy of a challenge and I trust you.” since hiring the toy maker. I’ve had operatives “Forgive me Logan,” Mellen quickly spoke, “But at the mansion for weeks now, but they have not the question of our compensation still remains. been able to gather much information. However, My friends and I have expenses. If we are to help it appears that Uzolan has convinced Caudecus you, we will be unable to use the time to earn other to make certain changes to key personnel. The income. Bills must be paid.” Queen refuses to listen, I cannot convince her of Logan surprised them all with his next the danger.” statement. “I will give you as a group, six gold “We will uncover any plot and protect the coins as a retainer, and 6 more gold coins upon Queen. I promise you.” Mellen assured him. completion. That is what you were going to Maggie quietly added, “Yes. Speaking of which, haggle me to, isn’t it? If the retainer doesn’t cover do you have invitations for us or must we sneak in your expenses, provide me with receipts upon the back door?” completion and you will be compensated.” “The Queen was adamant that you all are Maggie looked at Mellen who simply said, invited.” Logan produced the rest of the invitations “How did you know what I was going to ask?.” and handed them to Maggie. “It seems she With a smile, Logan simply replied, “I expected remembers each of you.” you to ask what the task is worth to me. I will spare As Maggie placed the invitations into her pack, no expense to protect my Queen. And besides, your she looked at each of her friends. The yawning had
82 begun, “Excuse us Logan, it is late, and it seems we they held hands and smiled at each other. Harry sat have preparations to make, and a plan to hatch.” with the driver, carefully watching their progress “Please keep me apprised of the situation if you while Maggie called out various points of interest. will, I would prefer no surprises.” Logan’s eyes Upon arriving at the gate, the group made frowned in worry. their way up the stairs to be greeted by the butler, Terri reached out and gently touched his arm, Albert. When Albert came to Maggie and Terri, he “I know you’re concerned about the Queen, but we said brightly, “The Queen is looking forward to will do our best to protect her.” seeing both of you again.” He nodded once and the tight muscles in his “Thank you, Albert.” Terri smiled back as he face relaxed a bit as he exhaled. kissed her hand. With that the group bid Logan good night and The party was in full swing as they entered the found the wagon waiting outside to take them back courtyard. When the Queen noticed Maggie and to the house. The ride was uneventful, and the talk Terri, she had them escorted to her. Ignoring the remained small. Once they reached the house, formalities, she greeted them with warm embraces Mellen reached into his pocket and produced a tip “My favorite young ladies. I want to scold you for the driver, saying, “Thank you sir.” for not keeping your promise to come visit me Back at the house, they discussed the evening every week.” and planned until everyone was exhausted. “I’m sorry your majesty, but we both know how busy you are. We can’t take up your time with our little lives.” Maggie replied. # “Nonsense, you would have saved me from
endless paperwork and fools. But I’m happy that The day of the party arrived bright and clear, you are here now. Logan is worried. It may be and the friends each felt a heightened sense of nothing, but thank you for coming.” adventure. With that, the talk turned to mundane, “How As promised, Mellen had left earlier to stash have you been,” and “You look wonderful.” away their weapons and armor in case they were Eventually, the Queen was pulled back into her needed. He would not be joining them directly, official state and the girls were released to enjoy but would be on hand nearby to keep watch from the party. outside the grounds. The group gathered to discuss the plan. Logan sent a carriage to pick them up in “I found the cache, it’s inside that little building Divinity’s Reach. The ride to Beetletun was in the fountain,” said Bones. uneventful, full of nervous small talk. Precious slept in Maggie’s lap. Electra’s pet krytan hound Electra added, “I noticed some muttering sat in the front with the driver, looking all regal going on between some of the guests and servants. in his brightly polished, studded collar. Electra Something isn’t right here, and I think we should and Bones sat in the front facing rear seat. Taking ask some discreet questions.” nearly the entire seat with their large Norn forms, “Okay, let’s split up and cover as much ground
83 as we can. Bones, would you please stay up here They donned their armor while formulating a near our gear in case we need the weapons?” rescue plan. Suddenly, Mellen appeared waving a “You’ve got it Maggie. What’s the signal?” small, blinking device which he excitably handed to Maggie as Terri looked on. “The signal is me screaming your name.” Maggie replied. Mellon said, “He used a transporter that leaves behind a residue of energy bundles,by The group split up and began mingling with following the residue it will lead you to where different groups and asking innocent sounding they teleported. Push this yellow button and it will questions. After an hour or so, they came together show you the path of energy. The green button is in a secluded spot to discuss their findings. Maggie a communicator you can use to reach me. There is quietly signaled Logan who gradually worked no time to waste, go find the queen. his way to them so they could fill him in on their findings. Uzolan had replaced most of Caudecus’s Terri took the device and led the way. The group security with his own people. Clearly upset about followed the residue into the building and down a what they had uncovered, Logan stormed off hall. Soon, they came to a door that was guarded toward Lord Caudecus. Maggie, seeing the look in by a very large doorman. Armed with a hammer his eyes screamed “Bones!” and shield, He refused to let them pass. A long scar running down the side of his face showed he had Bones grabbed their gear, removed his no fear of fighting. Logan stepped up to him, “I hammer and staff, then tossed the rest down to order you in the name of the Queen to stand aside Maggie. Weapons in hand, the group spread out and let us pass.”. and took defensive positions. As Logan confronted Caudecus, Uzolan shouted, “Do it NOW!” While “I take orders from no Queen.” was his reply as his huge golem began to attack, Uzolan activated he spit on the floor and the battle ensued. a small device and he, Caudecus, and the Queen The doorman struck a mighty blow with disappeared in a bright flash of purple light. his hammer and Logan went down almost Maggie leaped headlong into the attack and immediately. Simon pulled him away and Maggie began using her axes to disable the golem. Bones dived behind the doorman as Bones took the front. joined her and shielded them both as his hammer Together, they began to beat their way through pounded on the machine. Precious deflected the his defenses as Harry and Electra hit him with Golems first attack, as Simon interrupted his their arrows. Once Logan revived, he rejoined second. Electra and Harry both fired from behind the fight with a vengeance. Precious appeared as the hedges, arrow after arrow. Terri put up a wall did Electra’s hound. Simon quickly knocked the of stone that protected the guests from the golem’s doorman down, and that allowed Bones to finish attack. Soon it was over and the golem lay in pieces him off. Bones cast healing spells all around, and on the ground. soon the group was ready to advance. “The Queen, he’s taken the Queen!” Logan Inside the room was a group wearing the cried out. His fists clenched around the grip of his uniforms of Caudecus’s security guards. As soon sword in frustration. as Logan entered, they attacked. Logan quickly rolled back through the doorway, shouting, “Look “We’ll find them,” Maggie replied. out, it’s a trap!”
84 Bones and Maggie quickly took positions on Harry winked and started back down the either side of the doorway and fought the enemy stairs, this time he took a little longer, but when soldiers in the narrow confines of the door. Terri he returned, another group was hot on his trail. threw fireballs, Electra and Harry fired arrows, and Dodging again to get out of the way, Harry stood the pets joined the fight at the door. One by one, to the side and used his bow. Precious and Simon the enemy soldiers were killed. Once the fighting met the group directly and helped dispatch them had stopped, Maggie peeked inside the room and in no time. Harry made one more trip, and after shouted, “There are seven more, charge!” that group was gone, said, “That’s all I could find. I The group bolted through the door firing as think it’s safe for us to go downstairs now.” they went and the remaining bandits went down Maggie directed her gaze at Logan, “This quickly. As Harry and Bones searched for clues machine is pointing toward the stables. We may on the bodies, Bones commented, “These are not need help. Get reinforcements to meet us there! security guards, they’re separatists. They all have You’ll need to save her if we fail.” the distinctive tattoos on their necks. What are “It will take some time,” he answered, rubbing they doing here?” his forehead. “When we were questioning everyone, we were “Then you should go now, we can handle told that all of the security staff had been replaced tracking them, but we might need help freeing at Uzolan’s direction.” Harry reminded them. her.” “Replaced by separatists, sworn against the “You are right, thank you,” he said and left the Queen. We have to get to her.” Terri sounded room in long, determined strides. worried. As Logan left the way they had come, Maggie Maggie calmed them, “Don’t worry, we can motioned the group forward. Quietly they went still see and track the energy trail, so we must be downstairs to find the halls empty. Maggie put her getting closer. We need to go down the stairs.” finger to her lips and whispered, “Listen.” “That could be dangerous,” Bones surprised They heard voices arguing. Someone was her with his caution. trying to convince someone else to open a door Harry piped in, “I can go down first, draw some and let him out. Maggie pointed in the direction back up here. We can fight a handful at a time that of the voices, and the group charged. They came way, instead of the whole mob.” across more bandits, including a grenadier who Maggie nodded and Harry started quietly down was throwing bombs at them. Dodging the bombs, the stairs. The rest of the party spread out and they were able to kill the grenadier first, then the waited. Soon they heard heavy footsteps running fighter. Finally, they captured the loud-voiced one up the stairs and Harry burst in and suddenly who had been trying to get through the door. rolled to his left. Behind him were half a dozen “And who have we here?” asked Maggie, while bandits. They were dispatched quite handily by holding her axe at his throat. the group. “I work for Lord Caudecus, I am trying to find “Nice job.” Bones said in admiration. him, and he has been kidnapped,” the guard shook as he answered. Sweat beaded on his pale face as
85 he stared at her determined face. lieutenant, Simon began to fight the lieutenant’s “You’re wearing the same uniform as these soldiers. Electra and Harry used their bows to fire men. That tells me you’re one of them. They were upon the entire group. Terri, wearing her conjured obviously working for the separatists.” stone armor, waded into the battle and created a wall of fire that the separatists couldn’t cross. “I don’t know anything about that, I only know I have to reach Lord Caudecus. I have information One by one, the separatists were defeated until about Uzolan. He’s in league with the separatists only the lieutenant remained. Precious and Simon and is trying to hold the Queen for ransom.” made short work of the injured officer. The party took time to check for injuries on themselves and “Where are they holding the Queen?” Maggie the cat and dog. Bones and Harry traded barbs. pushed the axe tighter against the man’s neck. They also checked their weapons for damage. He swallowed and trembled. “I don’t know for Simon gave a soft whine. sure, but I think they were leaving the grounds by Harry sniffed the air and said, “He must smell the stable. I saw a wagon loaded with weapons.” other dogs, guard dogs patrolling the grounds” Maggie removed the axe from his neck, but not Looking around the corner, Maggie noticed a the tight grip on his arm. “Tie him up. Leave him. handful of separatists guarding a Norn. Signaling Gag him so he can’t warn anyone.” to the group, she switched to her bow, stepped Maggie reached up and pressed a lever on the around and fired at the closest separatist. Electra wall. The doorway opened to reveal a separatist fired a barrage at the group, the arrows landing Lieutenant. Armed with pistols and grenades, his with the sound of heavy hail. Three separatists double attack gave them some trouble until Simon went down immediately from their attack. Two charged and knocked him down, giving Maggie more fought their way into the middle of the and Bones time to reach him. group, only to die when attacked from all sides. “Grenade!” Bones grabbed the grenade he Looking around the corner again, Maggie was holding and flung it into the next tunnel. It found the Norn alone and asleep. As they drew exploded and hurled rocks and shrapnel through closer, Harry noticed three more bandits hiding the tunnel. in an adjoining room. He signalled the group and Five separatists in clanging metal and leather they were drawn out quickly and ran instantly armor ran through the tunnel as the smoke cleared. into a flaming wall created by Terri. The smell of They whipped out their weapons and leapt into burning flesh filled the air. Bones took a moment the battle. to cast healing spells. Electra noticed blood on Simon’s leg and insisted on wrapping the cut with Harry growled, “Thanks, Bones, I wanted a herbs. harder fight.” The Norn snored loudly. Maggie was at a loss. “Now you’re learning how to be a Norn,” was She shook him and he still didn’t awaken. “He’s the Guardian’s retort. drunk,” stated Electra after sniffing the air around Bones countered the attack with a defensive him. spell that protected both Maggie and him. Bones found a pail of water and dumped it While Precious continued to bite and claw at the
86 unceremoniously on the sleeping giant. He stood tree. A ramp wound around the tree, leading up up, sputtering and wiped the water his face and to the guardhouse at the top. Out in front was a beard. Upon being questioned, the Norn soon single caged prisoner. identified himself as Sigfast, the door guard. After “What do you all think?” Maggie asked. being told of the Queen’s danger, he staggered “I think the grenadiers have done the most to the door and unlocked it. “You’ll need to be damage to us so far, they should be our first careful, there are guard dogs all over the property. targets.” Bones replied. You may also find a group of soldiers outside this door. There is also a guard post in the trees at the “I agree,” said Terri. top of the hill. You’ll be vulnerable until you take Maggie nodded and then stated, “I think you’re out the grenadiers and snipers.” right. Let’s take them out first, then go after the “Thank you Sigfast.” Bones replied. “We will snipers. If the fighters break through, Bones, see you at the Moot.” you and I will have to keep them away from our friends.” Bones waited at the door for Maggie’s signal. Once everyone was in position, she nodded her “Sounds like a solid plan,” Bones agreed. head and he used his hammer to blast open the With that, the group began the attack. Grenades door. The surprised separatists on the other side were flung in their direction immediately, but they charged right in to the trap. As Sigfast passed out were able to dodge out of range. Harry and Electra again and began to snore, the battle was finished. used their bows with precision, targeting the most “Stay inside,” said Maggie. dangerous enemies first.. Precious and Simon She stepped outside and carefully looked helped and the grenadiers were soon removed around the corner to see two groups of hounds, from the fight. The snipers were the next targets. each led by a lieutenant. Firing a single arrow at Fighters charged them, but Maggie and Bones the first group, she ducked back inside. The first held them at bay while Harry worked his way group came charging around the corner, only to be behind the tree and began picking snipers off from met by more arrows. Electra and Harry continued the rear. Electra continued her barrage from the to fire as Bones and Maggie waded in and attacked front. Terri built wall after wall of stone to protect the lieutenant. Terri set fire to the grass around them. Finally, Maggie and Bones started up the the fighting and the hounds fell, one by one. Soon ramp. only the handler remained. As Maggie’s axes Fighting their way to the top, they faced the sliced through the air in brutal blows, Bones drew commander. He was soon overwhelmed and the his staff and began casting a wall of reflection. The group hurried to the bottom to free the prisoner. lieutenant’s own attack was reflected back to him Surprised she had no injuries, Harry realized she and he died by his own hand. was none other than Mia Kindleshot. “Well met, The second group was dispatched the same Harry. You’ve grown into quite the fighter.” way, and the party moved out into the field. “Thank you elder Mia. How did you become Looking ahead, they could see the outpost their prisoner?” described by Sigfast. They counted grenadiers, “They took me when they took the Queen. snipers and fighters along the base of the largest
87 Perhaps for ransom, although they paid in blood. He fell to the ground immediately unconscious. They didn’t realize I bite.” She laughed. Queen Jennah rushed to his side and cradled his “Speaking of the Queen, do you know where head. She grabbed up a handful of stones from they took her?” Maggie asked. the ground beside them and threw them up in the Captain’s face. The captain howled, holding his “They are at the end of this valley, waiting for hand up to his face to protect his eyes. Maggie saw Uzolan’s escort. I heard some talk the Queen was the opening and whirled her axe for the finishing being difficult. I like her. I hope she bites too.” Mia blow. The other enemies fell soon after. replied, with a smile “Come, I’ll show you.” Terri and Electra joined Queen Jennah and After quickly restoring their energies, the Maggie next to Harry’s unconscious form. Tears party started up the valley. Soon they could see flowed down the Queen’s face. “He saved my life. some commotion in the distance. They hid away He stood between me and the dagger. We must in the underbrush to observe. The Queen was in a help him. I will not let him die.” protective bubble, and the Captain angrily shouted at his men, “Try and burst it.” Tears also ran down Terri’s face as she charged up the lane towards the stables, shouting, “Logan! The Queen, defiant, “I’ll let you all live if you Damn you, where are you, we need help!” leave immediately. Otherwise, you’ll be fed to farmer Hewitt’s pigs” Logan appeared, followed by a squad of soldiers. “What is it?” “The Captain will be the most difficult, but the others should be easy compared to what we’ve “It’s Harry, he’s been wounded. I think the fought so far,” whispered Harry. dagger was poisoned. He’s in bad shape.” “Perhaps, but we should watch a bit longer,” “Medics!” Logan barked. Terri replied. Two soldiers with heavy packs sprinted to the “Wait, did you see that?” asked Harry. “The group and the medics immediately began chanting bubble, it’s flickering. Her power is waning. We healing spells and bandaging wounds. Bones need to attack now! assisted with healing spells himself. Precious lay on Harry’s body, purring loudly. The group could With that, Harry climbed up the hill for a better see her growing smaller as she gave Harry her life vantage point. Electra joined him, Terri moved force. Simon licked Harry’s face. behind a tree and waited for the signal. Bones walked up the center of the path and confronted The Queen looked up at one of her officers. the Captain directly. Maggie charged and the fight “Captain, we need an airship right away. If we can began. Mia, using a rifle taken from a dead sniper, get him to Divinity’s Reach, our doctors might be targeted the sergeant. able to save him.” Suddenly, the protective bubble surrounding The captain saluted. “Right away, Your the Queen burst. Harry, seeing it first, charged Majesty.” He turned and sent off his fastest runner and put himself between the Queen and the to deliver the message. separatists. He cried out in pain as the captain’s Once they arrived at the palace, Harry was taken knife, flung at the Queen, struck him in his chest. to the guest quarters and the finest doctors in the
88 kingdom were summoned. The group waited at the “I can help remove some of the poison.” foot of his bed. Precious, at first banned by the staff “You’re exhausted from casting the protection from Harry’ room because of her ferocious nature spells for so long, Your Majesty. You could be toward anyone who came near Harry, slipped in seriously injured yourself if you’re not at full behind one of the healers and joined Harry on strength.” the bed. When an orderly tried to remove her, she “Mellen needs help, and I’m certainly not going became very large, very fast and her no nonsense to stand here and watch Harry die.” Queen Jennah hiss made it plain she was not leaving. waved a scepter in tiny spirals through the air. Maggie left the room briefly and punched a Music filled the room and light glowed in a circle, button on the communicator. enlarging until it engulfed Harry, Mellen and the “What is it now, bookah?” he sighed. “I’m right other healers. A gray-green cloud appeared above in the middle of calibrating the psy-accelerometer the Charr. Harry started to breathe more easily, and the tachyphonic stream needs to be in perfect and his drooping ears regained some color. synchronization, or--” The healer attending the Charr checked his vital With tears in her voice, Maggie almost shouted, signs again. “Harry is improving, Your Majesty. “Mellen, get to the Queen’s palace in Divinity’s The poison appears to be out of his system.” Reach NOW. Harry was seriously wounded in The necromancer collapsed at the side of the the battle, and the doctors can’t stop the poison. I bed. He laid his head down on the bedspread think he’s dying.” briefly before saying, “What idiotic bookah tried to Mellen arrived a couple of hours later. The party get between Harry and me and interrupt my work? had collapsed in chairs and on the floor around the Don’t you fools know that Asurans have superior room, exhausted from battle and worry. constitutions for this?” Mellen scanned the Charr with some The Queen laid a gentle hand on his shoulder. instruments and nodded. He looked at the doctors. “You’re welcome. Now get some rest. We all need “You there, tall bookah. Cast whatever it is you cast it after this ordeal. That’s an order.” to keep his cardiovascular system in high gear. I’m Mellen opened his mouth once, closed it, and going to leech the poison out of him.” He turned stayed silent. Terri helped him to his feet and to Harry and began a spell of his own. His voice led him to a chair. She handed him some water faded as he worked his way through all the spell and a small bowl of stew to regain his energy. He chants. slumped over in the chair as soon as he finished, The queen noticed the Asuran becoming more eyelids fighting unsuccessfully to stay open. pale as the spell went on. “What’s happening to Maggie was the first to awaken at the sound of him?” Harry’s voice. “I’m hungry,” he said. “How about A healer examined him without interrupting some breakfast?” As the group awakened, each the flow of his work. “He’s healing him somehow, of them rushed to the bed and began to hug the my Queen. Necromancers can do that, but Harry wounded ranger. Precious jumped off the bed and may have too much poison in his system for Mellen moved to the still sleeping Mellen. Laying upon to save him.” his body, she began once again to purr. It was then
89 that everyone noticed Mellen’s color was very pale. “You put yourself in the line of fire to protect Soon though, the flush returned to his cheeks me, that takes incredible courage. You remind me and he awakened. Maggie looked at him knowingly. so much of your father and I know that he would She knew he had been the one to save Harry’s life. be very proud of you. You are hereby declared a Mellen put his finger to his lips, and she nodded. Champion of the Queen. Let all who meet you know, you have the heart and courage of a lion.” The Queen entered the room in a flourish. Sitting on the edge of the bed, she held Harry’s There was not a dry eye in the room, even paw and said simply, “Thank you, you saved my Logan had to wipe his eyes. The story was told life and I can never repay you, but if you ever are over and over again and Precious grew in each in need, you have only to ask.” retelling, until she was as large as the Elder dragon himself. “It was just blind luck Your Majesty. I zigged instead of zagged.” The Charr shyly replied.
90 Guild Wars 2 Gaiscioch Progress Report By: Benjamin “Foghladha” Foley
ife in Guild Wars 2 lately has been getting they feel the leader has done an outstanding job. better by the day. Our numbers have Lastly we have enabled badges on the Sanctum Lbalanced out right at the 500 active player of Rall site to allow players to show off their level which has made guild management a breeze achievements in leadership and fellowship. and makes the strain of the lack of a cross guild communication system less apparent. Many of you will be familiar with these new systems as they are a lite versions of the ones we Over the past few months we’ve actually seen a use every day on the Gaiscioch.com site. With this rise in activities and player participation in these new system in place we have seen our server grow activities. The new Sanctum of Rall Community and become active once again. New guilds have Conquest events featuring both Guild Missions found their way to our shores and we are actively and WvW have been a huge hit and we’re now growing once again. getting crowds over 90 players for the missions and around 60 for the WvW segment. Those of you who have stepped up to lead in World vs World I thank you. Your efforts have breathed Server wise, we have seen several new developments new life into our server. Over the past couple that have improved the quality of life. A new war months we have had some of the most fulfilling council has been elected including Xivor, Scripko, fights on the battlefield to date. Moscow, GFKowns, and myself to oversee the public face of our server to the rest of the Guild Players are having fun again and the old days of Wars 2 community and provide leadership and belittling and raging that we came to know on the support to our community. community Teamspeak is long passed. With the loss of the Elite, we gained the ability to forge a Several new features have been added to the community of our own. SanctumofRall.com including the new Commander On Deck feature that allows commanders to mark This new community is friendly, helpful, kind, that they are on a map and earn a score based of and respectful. If you have not had a chance to their PPT performance and how many players experience WvW since we left tier 1, I’d highly followed them into battle. This system ties directly recommend coming out for some of the most epic into our new Weekly and Monthly raffles which nights we’ve had in recent years. Every event is an award random participants, leaders, and members epic event now. I look forward to the days to come of Sanctum of Rall a chance to win loot. in anticipation for what comes next. We can finally “play” and not worry about being the best all the Additionally I have added a new feature that allows time. Join us for some fun times and play Guild people to add comments about each leader and Wars 2 the way it should be played. With friends! award them with a commander commendation if
91 92 Preface: Chapter 1: The Tuatha de Anu The following story was created in 2001 as the Origins story for the Gaiscioch na Anu, a Dark Legend has it that the Tuatha de Anu was created Age of Camelot Roleplaying guild formed to share by Anu to help protect the people of Hibernia. the stories of Celtic folklore with the Hibernia, Anu is known throughout Hibernia as the mother Nimue community. Characters mentioned in this goddess or as Mother Nature. She is the Wife of story are fictional and not related to any person in the Sun God Belenos, and mother to the Tuatha particular. This story loosely based on the lore of de Anu, or Tribe of Anu. She is well known for her Dark Age of Camelot, Celtic folklore, and in game benevolence and is often times referred to as the character stories. goddess of fertility and nature. It is believed that she is the source of all energy that lives within all natural elements. This is the very same energy, which allows the ancient druids to practice the
93 magical ways that help protect the land of Hibernia. His first son was Aonghus Mac Og. He was raised Little is known about the origins of Anu however by Midhir, a chieftain in Bri Leith, after his mother it’s believed that she has been around since the Boinne gave birth to him. This was because Boinne creation of time. was the wife of Dagda’s brother Nuada who he had taken the throne from. In an act of passion Dagda The Tuatha de Anu was comprised of several gods ordered his brother Nuada to travel to the islands and goddess. The most well known being Dagda in the east to investigate a new civilization that the king of the Tuatha de Anu. This was not always had been discovered. In the time that Nuada was so. His brother Nuada was once the king of the away Dagda impregnated his wife and delivered Tuatha de Anu. Until the first battle of Magh his child. In an effort to keep his heredity secret Tuiredh. In this treacherous battle King Nuada the Tuatha de Anu’s poets of skillful words and had his hand severed in combat. Due to this sign magic educated him. He excelled in the magical of mortality the Tuatha de Anu removed him from ways of shape shifting and in time was told of his his throne and in his place sat his brother Dagda. true heredity.
Nuada was rather upset by the loss of his seat as His next son, Lugh Lamfhota, was endowed with king and also the loss his hand. His brother, being abnormal strength. Based on his abnormal strength as clever as he is and a skilled craftsmen, Nuada’s and the long range of his weapons, Lugh became younger brother Dian Cecht, forged Nuada a new known as the Raven of the Long Arm. He carried hand made of pure silver. The hand was given to a sword that could cut through anything, and a Nuada and from that day on he became known as spear given to him by Dagda, which was extremely “Nuada Argetlamh” or “Nuada of the silver hand”. powerful. It could fly through the air for a great distance when cast by him, and when he spoke the When Dagda took the throne his brothers Nuada, word “Ibar” it would never to miss his mark. Then Dian Cecht and Lir quickly became dominant he would speak “Athibar” and the spear would figures in the Tuatha de Anu as well as Dagda’s 4 return to his hand. He earned the name Raven sons; Aonghus Mac Og, Lugh Lamfhota, Oghma, from his ability to speak with the ravens to learn and Aodh, and 3 daughters Brighid, Banbha, the positions of the enemy soldiers. He has long and Eire. He is endowed with great wisdom and blonde hair and was very tall and muscular. He is extreme magical skills. He wears a coarse-woven, handsome and well proportioned. He is a heroic brown low-necked tunic, which only reached down warrior, sorcerer, and accomplished in all skills. below his hips; and over this a hooded cape, which From music to crafting in metals stone and wood. barely covered his shoulders. He wears knee high He is portrayed by many, to be the God of Light. animal-hide boots, and has long hair with a full silvery white beard. Even though he is a king he Dagda’s third son, Oghma is a master of wisdom, has never been seen with a crown or any type of speech, and poetry. Oghma is shrewd and thinks jewels or riches. He is a rather large man towering quickly in warfare, and a champion in battle. He over most firbolgs. is one of the leading warrior chiefs in battles. He was the creator of the Ogham script, the earliest He had enormous strength and carries a club-of- form of written language. He is fair haired, blue anger. This eight-pronged war club is so huge that eyed, and handsome with a chiseled face. He is several men would be needed just to carry it. The tall, muscular and very strong. Even today, his club is imbued with magical powers on the smooth language can only be read by the Tuatha. end he could touch a dead man and instantly bring him to life. Thus one end has the power to The fourth son is rather elusive. There is little destroy while the other the power to recreate. documented about his son Aodh. It is rumored He is also known for his mighty bronze cauldron that he is the god of shadows and no mortal has named the Undry, in which provides an endless ever laid eyes upon him. It is believed that Aodh bountiful harvest to the people of Hibernia. He was extremely jealous of his other brothers and also possesses a harp that when played can change decided to spend life in shadows and only to appear the weather and seasons. upon the request of the goddess Anu herself.
94 Dagda’s first daughter Brighid was born at the this mysterious woman would eventually lead to exact moment that the sun rose over the eastern her death. Bran still lives today as a well known as foothills. A great tower of flame rose from the top a giant that roams the land south of Innis Carthaig. of her tiny head, reaching far into the skies, thus signaling the birth of a uniquely divine baby. Her The Tuatha were strong and brought prosperous breath gave life to the dead and this earned her times to Hibernia. Many years passed before the the name “the Exalted One”. She is a great poet great conflict began. and possesses many talents in the realm of arts and crafts. Many Bards and Poets aspire to be like Brighid and often times find themselves in awe of her greatness. However, while Brighid’s words Chapter 2: The Great Conflict are beautiful she is cursed with one half of her face being ugly while the other being beautiful. It was the winter after the great oak fell near However her long hair hangs over her one side Ardee, that snow began to fall on the mountains to of her face to hide this curse. She is rather well the east. This made the Tuatha de Anu very weary. proportioned and is always clad in a simple, long For snow had not touched the soil of Hibernia white robe. She is married to Breas, the son of a for nearly a thousand seasons. Anu began having Fomorian king in an attempt to form an alliance horrible nightmares of a foreign race coming to between the two races. She gave birth to a son Hibernia and laying siege to its peaceful way of Ruadan who was beheaded and killed in a battle at life. They had horrific faces often times hidden a young age. Due to the delay in reaching her slain in the shadows. Some were tall and bulky while son she was unsuccessful in breathing life into others were short and slender. Their coarse skin his body. Her sorrow was great and she was the was like the scale of a dragon or that of golem. first to lament the death of a love one by weeping, shrieking and wailing. In his memory she erected Anu decided it was time to call upon the Tuatha de a shrine in Kildare that contained a sacred flame Anu to discuss the nightmares that had besieged that would never go out. her. The Tuatha agreed to meet at a place not to far from Caille at the top of a mountain where villagers His second daughter Banbha took king MacCuill had erected worship stones. For hours upon hours hand in marriage at a young age. She is a gifted they discussed this matter and a plot to prevent magician and is known to be the goddess of war the fall of Hibernia. The first to speak was Brighid. and of fertility. Tormented by her own ghosts and plagued with the ever desire to partake in war she suggested Dagda’s last child was Eire, a extremely powerful that the Tuatha meet the resistance before it had magician who cast powerful spells by the use of ever begun. Dagda looked to her with a troubled incantations and herbs. She sometime appears as a face and asked, “if we are to leave Hibernia to fight tall, powerfully built woman in colorful, intricately a war against an unknown race, who would be left adorned robes, luxuriant gold-blonde hair, and to protect our home?” Lugh then spoke out hastily sometimes as a long-beaked gray crow, casting her to add, “We can not leave our country, nor can we spells and weaving magic wherever she goes. even begin to predict the power of this race. We must defend before siege. Learn the ways of these Dian Cecht is a fine Craftsmen and maker of people.” Nuada then interrupted by saying “why Nuada’s silver hand. He is the great god of healing don’t we have Dian Cecht create a staff that could and is the physician of the Tuatha de Anu. It was be imbued with our powers and used to protect Dian who blessed the well Slane in which the the lands of Hibernia even in our absence?” The wounded Tuatha de Anu bathed. It is known that heads of the Tuatha snapped to Nuada and the this would cure all wounds so they could resume air became rather still. Dagda said calmly “Aye fighting. brother… I do feel that would be our best plan of action.” The other Tuatha quickly agreed. Lir is the god of the sea and father of four. The most controversial of which, was his son Bran, So it was decided that Dian Cecht’s craftsmanship who was born from a mortal woman. Lir’s love for would be called upon again. He began crafting a
95 shod staff made of duskwood with an emerald the goddess Anu a gift. It was a golden necklace with size of a fist encased in its peak. After the staff was a leaf embossed pendant that he had spent many crafted the Tuatha met once again to perform a hours crafting for her. ritual that would place their powers into this staff. As the ritual progressed the storm that had been As he set the necklace on the base of the center bantering the hillside for days diminished. The stone the rain that had been hammering his blue sun peaked out between the clouds and shined hooded gossamer cloak dispersed and a beam of upon the shrine illuminating it with a breathtaking light illuminated the shrine. Anu appeared next aura. Small wisps of light began flowing through the stone clothed in vines of ivy. Her skin was far the bodies of the Tuatha into the staff. When the paler than he expected. Her red hair flowed into the wisps of light disappeared Anu stepped forward wind like fireflies dancing in the moonlight. Her and mumbled an ancient blessing. She then bent eyes were like emeralds yet peaceful and soothing. down and kissed the emerald, which was placed at He was mesmerized by her beauty and could the staff’s crown. The staff began glowing a silvery barely breath. But as the wind stilled and Anu’s green color and Anu named it “Bioran de Saorsa”. lips parted, he felt warm and safe, not terrified like before. She spoke to him and requested that At this point the Tuatha decided they needed a he build a tower so vast that it could house a staff place they could house this powerful yet destructive created by the Tuatha de Anu. She gave to him the staff. Anu decided it was time to contact a mortal plans for this tower and then disappeared into the and instruct them to build a tower that could light. protect this staff. She sought out an individual so pure of heart that he would perform this task Within one season cycle Allister had the tower without questioning her motives or inquire about completely constructed. It was erected just north the origins of this sacred staff. It was imperative east of the town of Magmell and he called it the that the staff be kept secret, as every rogue from “Tùr na Tir na mBeo” or the “Tower of the land Innis Carthaig to Tir Urphost would be seeking it of the living”. The Tuatha de Anu came to Tùr na out for its valuable emerald. Tir na mBeo and placed the staff in its highest point. Upon placing the Bioran de Saorsa into its holder a bright light flowed from the staff into the sky creating a barrier that would prevent foreign invasion. This barrier was known as the Veil.
The following season ships were seen to the coastline just passed the hills of Emain Macha. Hundreds of thousands of foreigners began making camp on the beachhead just a days hike from the village of Failte. These humans, who claim to be from the land of Midgard, brought with them hundreds of beasts known as trolls and kobolds. Like Anu had dreamt, they were tall and bulky while others were short and slender.
Carragh dé Earsadh Widespread panic began to arise in the land of Hibernia as tens of thousands of Norsemen, Trolls, It was at Carragh dé Earsadh, also known as the and Kobolds stormed into the northeastern lands Monument of Hope that she contacted a druid by of Hibernia. Scouts reported a large settlement on the name of Allister Caulfield who was paying his the beachhead. Villagers packed their bags and respect to the Tuatha. Allister was a medium sized began heading towards the capital city in hopes man with short brown hair and fair skin. He was their lives would be spared. A call to arms was sent a man of unquestionable devotion and dedicated across the lands and what forces Hibernia had his entire life to nature and to worshipping Anu. moved to Emain Macha in hopes they could stop He had traveled to Carragh dé Earsadh to give the this force about to partake in sieging their homes.
96 Now the Formorians can be found on the small Another season passed before they attempted island of Hybrasil. Seeing this war take place to siege the Hibernian fort of Dun Crauchon. did however smooth over relations between the Legion upon legion began marching towards the Firbolg and Tuatha and finally the Firbolg joined north-easternmost keep. Like a sea of steel they the alliance. progressed towards the mainland. However upon crossing the hills of Emain Macha their skin burst Meanwhile in the land of Midgard, a Stormur into flames and their bodies were disintegrated Herra by the name of Garn was ordered to take within seconds. Half the Midgard legion attempted a small band of troops to Hibernia. They were to pass through the hills of Emain Macha before ordered to infiltrate the eastern shores of Emain they finally figured out they could not pass as long Macha, secure a fortress, and make contact with as the veil stood. a greedy Celtic rogue by the name of Kerwyn who had agreed to steal the Bioran de Saorsa. After half the Midgard force fell the Tuatha lead the counter assault. Celts, Elves, and Lurikeen all Garn set sail from the port of Mularn. Less than joined together and pushed the Midgards back a season later his ships landed on the shores of the ships in which they came. As the last Midgard Emain Macha. A cave quickly became their base ship set sail to the east, an uproar of cheering and camp and was the arranged meeting spot for celebration was heard across the land. Hibernia Kerwyn. At the next full moon Kerwyn arrived late was saved thanks to the devotion of Allister to the at night by horse. He met with Garn and agreed goddess Anu and the work of the Tuatha de Anu. that in exchange for the staff Garn would give him 5 platinum coins and a home in Midgard in the highest class neighborhood of the Midgard society.
Chapter 3: The Fall of the Veil Kerwyn spent many months observing the guard cycles and patterns around Tùr na Tir na mBeo. A thousand seasons passed and relations between He noticed one guard had a tendency to talk with a the Tuatha and the races of Hibernia were local rowan maiden a wee bit too much and talking strengthening. For they knew that if the veil should wasn’t all they were doing. He planned his entrance fall it would be up to the races of Hibernia to around the guard’s scandalous affair, planning defend their land. While the Lurikeen, Celts, and to sneak in and out of the tower before he would Elves agreed to the alliance the Firbolg remained ever notice. His plan went exactly as he imagined at war with the Fomorian and would not agree to and by the next moon cycle he found himself with peace between the two races. the Bioran de Saorsa in his hand running riding swiftly to Emain Macha. For thousands of years of war placed a thick wall between the Firbolgs and Fomorians. Once again as winter came, snow fell on the hills Dagda offered his first daughter Brigid’s hand in east of Ardee. Anu began having nightmares and marriage to the Fomorian kings son Breas as sign the Tuatha were called together. Dagda was sent of new life between the Formorian and Tuatha. to Tùr na Tir na mBeo to check on the sacred staff. The Formorian were pleased by this offer and When Dagda arrived he noticed the staff had been Breas and Brigid gave birth to a son by the name stolen. In his rage Dagda struck the tower sending of Ruadan. However the Firbolg were appalled it crumbling to the floor. The staff was gone and by this gesture. The fact the Tuatha chose the worse yet the veil had fallen. Formorians before Firbolg did not help matters. The search for the staff began however it was too This did not last long, as before Ruadan’s 15th late. When Kerwyn arrived at Garns hideout he birthday his own father Breas, out of jealous was told that Garn asked he meet him at the village rage sent him to his death in one of the most of Failte. The tired and nervous thief made haste meaningless battles ever fought. This caused an all to the small Lurikeen village. From a distance he out war between the Tuatha and Formorians and could see a cloud of smoke. As he neared the small the Tuatha forced the Formorians out of Hibernia. bodies of Lurikeens were scattered throughout the
97 land. It was an massacre and those who survived Chapter 4: Là na Bàs the initial raid were captured, locked in their town hall while the children of the village were locked in A cold winter night greeted the Stormur Herra a cage and forced to watch their mothers, fathers, Garn as he set foot in the port of Mularn for the first and grandparents burst into flames and perish. time in almost four seasons. Several other Midgard officials joined him as he marched to the capital Garn rode into town with cynical grin on his face. city. The Midgard king Kaall anxiously awaited his He dismounted his horse and walked over to the return. As he entered the palace he removed his now shaking thief. He took the staff into his hand cloak and gave it to one of his servants. As Garn and yelled something in a Midgard tongue. A approached the throne of King Kaall he wielded loud uproar began and then an utter panic. Garn the glowing green emerald. looked to the cage where the children were held, and noticed the lock had been removed and the A legendary runemaster by Uald took the stone children escaped. from his hand. The King was most pleased by his actions. Uald attempted to summon the power The children arrived at Dun Crauchon and the of this legendary stone but failed. Several times forces of Hibernia were sent to the village of Failte. he attempted and every time resulted the same. When arrived they found the body of the hooded Something was missing he said as he looked to thief stapled to the side of a burned out building Garn. He asked if there was more than just the with a piece of the sacred staff shoved through his stone when he found it. Garn looked to the floor and forehead and through the oaken log wall. Scouts then let out a roar so loud it scared even the king led the troops back to the cave where Garn had set himself. He then looked at Kaall and apologized. up camp. To their dismay the cave was empty. All He told him that it had once been encased in a that was found was a few remains left over from staff and that the staff too must have contained spraggons that had made a tasty meal at one time. power. He mentioned the staff had been broken The Midgards had set sail back to the homeland in two. One half he still possessed. However the to inform their leaders that the Veil had fallen and other half remained in Hibernia and its location the most powerful stone that had ever befallen the was unknown. hands of a mortal, was now in the possession of Midgard. The king was most displeased by this and sent Garn along with five warships full of trolls, norsemen, Fear and sorrow plagued Hibernia and King Fagan and kobolds to seek out this second half of the was more interested in mining silver from the staff. The oceans were not kind to the Norse as two Silvermine Mountains, than he was preserving his of their ships overturned on the way to Hibernia. kingdom. The veil had fallen and the only thing The remaining three ships arrived near the old standing from total domination was the people settlement in Emain Macha. When Garn set foot of Hibernia and the Tuatha de Anu. When Fagan on Hibernia soil even the willow trees wept in realized he might lose the Silvermine Mountains sorrow. For there was only one outcome in store and all that lay within if he did not act to keep the for Hibernia, total destruction. Midgard’s away he ordered a messenger to travel to Albion to seek assistance from their neighboring Garn spent one month rebuilding he lair before Island. setting out for the first medium sized village. He came across a Firbolg village by the name of Darag. It was known that the War of the Realm had begun. By nightfall Failte looked like a carnival compared Several strongholds were constructed to protect to Darag. This time Garn spared no one. He almost the land and scouts were ordered to patrol all butchered the entire village, only a handful of the coastal land constantly and to notify Fagan when Firbolg managed to escape. The chieftain of this the Midgard’s resurfaced. It was only a matter of village, Rusg, was tortured and killed after he time before the “Là na Bàs” or the Day of Death. would not speak of what happened to the second half of the staff. This was the largest massacre that had ever fallen Hibernia. It became known as Là na Bàs.
98 the soul. Three more villages were plagued by Garn’s wrath in the following days and word of his presence With the portals unleashing hundreds and arrived in Tir na nOg. King Fagan was furious that thousands of trolls and kobolds unto Hibernia, Garn had disrupted his silver trade routes once the Albion drafted an idea to take over one of the again and called upon their allies to the east. portals to allow Albion troops to move directly into Emain Macha to meet the resistance head on. Within a half a season Albion forces arrived. Fagan approved this plan and the Hibernian and The Albion forces were greeted by thousands of Albion forces slammed into the southern portal Hibernians. The two nations combined an assault crushing its opposition. An Albion mage then cast and managed to push Garn’s forces out of Emain a similar spell that Uald used to create a gateway Macha. Yet it was not over. As the Albion and between Albion and Hibernia. Hibernians pushed the Midgard forces back, fifty more ships arrived unleashing yet more terror on Albion forces came by the thousands and joined the nation. together with the Hibernian forces. Together they crushed Midgard’s remaining settlements and Onboard one of the ships that had docked at pushed them back to their last stronghold. The the Midgard settlement came Uald, a very wise fight would have been won if it weren’t for the and powerful runemaster. The Midgard forces Black Plague that befell Albion. That is when the constructed two strongholds in the east side of real battle began. Emain Macha. Inside these strongholds Uald used an ancient summoning stone and a spell that allows the bending of matter which allowed him to construct two portals that would allow Midgards to Chapter 5: The Black Death flow into the land without wasting several months at sea. The spring brought with it more than just color and warmth to the land of Albion. With it came a Fagan quickly demanded the creation of two gates plague of which none had ever witnessed. It began that would be used to halt the Midgard forces from in a small town outside of Lyonness. A local villager entering Emain Macha. The creation of these gates came out of the woods terrified and barely able did not go without blood being spilled. Hundreds to speak. His ramblings were so delusional that of Hibernian soldiers passed to the netherworld people took him as a mad man who had too much defending the gates construction. to drink. A wealthy man took him to the local inn and paid to his stay for the night. By morning the The Tuatha de Anu were greatly saddened by man covered in black welts, his fingers had turned these casualties and decided it was time to black in color and he lacked the strength to even endow the soldiers of Hibernia with the same life move. By nightfall three of his fingers had fallen giving power that Brighid possessed. The Tuatha off at the knuckle, and the welts on his body began traveled to every major city and taught the master to burst, leaking a white substance. By the next healers to use the town’s runestone to bring the morning he was nothing more than a mutilated fallen soldiers back from the dead. Each soldier piece of flesh. That day five more people became was then given a miniature runestone that would ill. By the end of the week, hundreds of Albion bind him or her to their hometown’s stone. These men, women, and children were ill as well. quickly became known as Bindstones. With this innovation the Hibernian soldiers fought without The Albion king set up a stockade preventing fear of death. anyone from entering or exiting the east side of Albion. In this great state of turmoil he ordered However, there was one way that the spirit could be all of his troops to withdraw from Hibernia, as he lost and not return to the bindstone. If by chance would need them to contain the illness that the the miniature stone was lost or not on the body locals began calling “The Black Death”. The troops of the fallen victim the body would be lost in the immediately pulled out of Hibernia leaving the netherworld and permanent death would overtake fight up to their neighboring island.
99 greenish fluid. He drew his dagger and scrapped Within a month many of the Albion soldiers had a small amount off the bark and placed it into a fallen victim to this illness. The king ordered his small satchel. He took it back to the lab to compare best Alchemist to study this illness and find a cause notes. After weeks of research he found that it was and a cure. He traveled to Lyonness to begin his not the blood of a Firbolg or Fomorian, but that of research. His research led him to the woods to the a Troll. The amulet was sent to a master of cultural south of Lyonness where he found a necklace that arts and he determined that the amulet was one had Ogham script written on it. This concerned that was give to each Hibernian chieftain to protect him as the nations relations with the Tuatha and their village from harm. It was also noted that the the Hibernian people had been peaceful for many amulet came from the village of Darag where the centuries. Midgards had ravaged the small Firbolg village.
The alchemist traveled back to Lyonness to This news did not set well with alchemist. He speak with the innkeeper who might have heard realize by assuming something so bold he cause something of the ill mans ramblings. When he a war between two peaceful nations. In the night, arrived the innkeeper had also fallen prey to the alchemist slipped into the Lyonness bell tower the illness. His journal was taken back to the and jumped from its edge. His body crumbled as alchemist’ workshop where he read about the sick it smashed into the hard rock below. In the weeks man collapsing to the floor speaking of a tall dark following the kings men packed their things and skinned beast, with an amulet around his neck. returned home. The man said he swung his dagger at the beast cutting its necklace off. Before he could escape the One season had passed and not much hope beast cast a spell on him and then vanished. remained in Hibernia. People began fleeing south of the great walls of Druim Cain and Druim Ligen. He looked at the amulet in his hand, which Every day several more cities were destroyed. It possessed Ogham script on it and began making was only a matter of time before the Midgards and notes. He wrote in his journal that the man was Albion would march into capital city of Tir na nOg. rambling of a curse put on him by a tall dark skinned creature that wore and amulet with the Seeing the unrest in the nation and the latest turn divine language of the Hibernian Gods on it. He of events, Anu called upon the Tuatha de Anu to went on to note that this was most likely a Firbolg meet with her once again. She had decided it was or Fomorian and could possibly have been one of time to use the 10 Seeds of Anu. The last hope of the Tuatha. Hibernia.
He sent this journal back to the King and this cause great unrest between the two nations. He asked himself, how could the Tuatha bring this death Chapter 6: The 10 Seeds of Anu to the people who had been helping them. The betrayal was too much to overlook. He ordered his With the black death spreading across eastern troops to attack Hibernia. The following months Albion, and the remaining Albion force amassing became the largest wave of bloodshed Hibernia in Emain Macha, Hibernia found they now had had ever seen. two foes threatening their way of life. The king was troubled and knew that if he did not put an end Albion and Midgard raiding parties ravaged the to this, all of Hibernia would fall. He called upon hillside of Emain Macha. Folk of the land began eight of Hibernia’s best scouts. referring to Emain Macha as land of blood as blood had stained so much of the land it glowed The first to arrive was resident of the city of Howth, red in color. which could be found deep in the Silvermine Mountains. He was a young lad by the name of Meanwhile, back in Lyonness, the Alchemist went Ethan Foghladha. Professionally he was a well back to the area where he found the amulet. On known as the Lurikeen ranger that had previously a nearby tree he saw what appeared to be a dark scouted many of the Midgard movements. King
100 Fagan ordered him to scout the movements of the Alexis’ mind at ease. She had an ill feeling about famed Kobold shadowblade, Garn. this that she could not seem to dismiss.
This news troubled Ethan as he had seen the Morning came and the birds began to sing. Alaois village where his grandparents lived destroyed packed his father’s bags and Ethan set off for Druim in a matter of minutes under Garn’s hand. He Ligen where he was to be given his orders. As he traveled to his home in Howth, to his wife Alexis rode off, Alaois ran along side his horse wishing and sons Banning and Alaois. Upon entering the his father good luck. Ethan looked back at Alexis gates Alaois came running jumping in excitement as she blew him a kiss and then rode towards the to see his father had returned from the capitol horizon. city. Ethan kneeled down next Alaois and handed him a bow he had crafted on his journey to Tir na Meanwhile, in Bri Leith, the Tuatha de Anu nOg. Alaois looked to him with bright eyes and gathered on the hill they met at long ago. Only embraced his father. nine members made it to the gathering as the others were seeing to the removal of the Albion His wife Alexis was the next to greet him. In her and Midgard forces. Anu looked over the nine arms was his second son Banning, who while he war torn Gods and Godesses and stepped into the was away took his first steps. Ethan leaned over center of their circle. She then held out her hand and smiled at his son Banning and then kissed and chanted an ancient blessing on the 10 seeds in him on his forehead. Alexis glowed with an aura her hand. She spoke of a prophecy, which was said of pure delight. Her hair was as red as the sunsets that in the final days of unrest when all is thought over the Silvermine Mountains and skin as fair as to be lost that there would be 10 seeds to rise up beaches of Connla. He held her tightly as he knew upon evil and save the land of Hibernia. it would only be a day before he must depart. Anu passed one seed to each of the nine gods Alexis had cooked a fine meal for him and they and told them to find one family each that could discussed his orders over dinner. Alaois looked at handle the burden that the 10 seeds would bring. his father with pride hearing as he was ordered by She also told them not to speak of the seeds to the King of Hibernia to seek out one of the most the nine families, which they were to give these famed Midgard’s to ever touch Hibernian soil. seeds. It was said that the 10th seed, the seed Anu Alexis on the other hand wore a rather saddened herself would give would be told of the 10 seeds face and was disturbed by this news. The time and it would be up to them to seek out the other came for kids to go to bed and Alexis and Ethan seeds. The gods agreed, and they set forth on their tucked them in and told them stories of the Gods epic search to find the ten families that would be and Goddesses. known as The 10 Seeds of Anu.
Alexis and Ethan returned to their room where Alexis wrapped her arms around Ethan tightly. She gave to him a necklace of badger teeth she had Chapter 7: The Gaiscioch na Anu made for him and in return Ethan gave her his old bow he had used for years. He said he never threw Ethan Foghladha arrived in Druim Ligen on the it away because it brought him luck. first day of the new winter. He reported to Caiptean Lucas MacKerry III, and was given his charts and That night Alexis and Ethan did not sleep. Instead, orders. His orders stated he was to travel to Emain they embraced each other as they gazed up at Macha and scout Garn’s encampment to find out the stars. Ethan took Alexis’ hand and told her how many soldiers were under his command. He that no matter what, the Gods would protect her was to leave the next morning. and be looking over them while he was away. He assured her that he would be all right as he had That night he went to a pub in Ardee for a drink his bindstone firmly fastened around his neck. before he long travels. Here he sat on his stool He knew if by chance he fell he would be saved by thinking of Alexis and his sons back home. To his the mages in Tir na nOg. However this did not set left he noticed a young Lurikeen lad sitting in the
101 corner. He had his steeple hat pulled so low than of the success of his mission in Albion. Ethan did no one could see his eyes. He was dressed in black not immediately understand the depths of this but and had carved a dagger with a rose into his walking then realized that this Shaman must have been the stick. Ethan approached him wondering why he cause of the Black Death. looked so distraught. As Ethan approached young lad quickly hid the engraving on his staff. With a Ethan then attempted to sneak out of the Midgard cough in his voice Ethan asked the boy his name. encampment but a hunter had caught onto his The boy looked to him slightly without revealing scent. Ethan looked at the hunter who was about his eyes and said, “I do not concern myself with to fire his bow and before the Hunter could get a names.” This statement confused Ethan. Ethan shot off, Ethan drew his stiletto, and threw it at the slowly pulled up a stool to the table and sat down. hunter splitting the string of his bow and stabbing The Lurikeen seemed to grow uncomfortable to the hunter in the neck. The sound of the hunter’s his presence. Ethan asked the boy “What troubles body falling onto the leaves that had fallen in the ye lad?” The Lurikeen moved his hand revealing a night’s wind triggered the guard’s eyes. Ethan name in his staff… Two words were inscribed on began to run grabbing his dagger from the corpse the staff, “Fogair Garn”. of the hunter.
Ethan then knew this was one of the children of Ethan ran but the trolls did not seem to tire. He Failte. Ethan asked the boy if he knew anything was almost to the Mile Gate, when on the horizon about Garn that might help him find his lair. The stood more than a hundred trolls and kobolds. He boy nodded and began telling Ethan about the turned to run the other way and noticed another night his parents were killed. Several hours passed hundred trolls. He had been surrounded. A small and the boy and Ethan compared stories. It was group of trolls moved in on Ethan’s position. Ethan time at last for Ethan to rest and he asked the boy drew his bow and let loose a fury of arrows killing one more time what his name was. The boy said six of the trolls. Ethan was down to his last arrow. “you can call me Conchobair De Failte” Ethan He barely could make out the silhouette of a figure nodded at the boy repeating the phrase Fogair on a horse in the distance. He cocked back his bow Garn, which in the modern tongue means Destroy and let his last arrow loose. The arrow seemed to Garn. be carried by the Gods as is roared through the sky. A moment later the arrow pierced through the The next dawn came and Ethan once again packed figures thigh and into the body of the horse killing his things and set off on foot to Emain Macha. The the horse instantly. Ethan watched as the horse road was long and oftentimes wet. Ethan kept on fell to the ground crushing the figures leg under schedule arriving in Emain just before the leaves it. Several large figures most likely trolls ran to his began to fall. Ethan’s first stop was at the village position and removed the horse from his wounded of Failte. There he placed a stone that Conchobair leg. had given him on the burned remains of their town hall. Ethan noticed a piece of driftwood lying Next a group of six kobolds began to close on his next to a well. As he began to reach for it he heard location. Ethan drew his daggers knowing that if the sound of something rather large coming his he was to die, he was going to bring as many as he way. Ethan grabbed his bag and dove behind the could with him. The group formed a circle around remains of a small building. him and began dancing around as if to try to taunt Ethan. Ethan tossed his first dagger into the air He sat there very still while a least a hundred trolls and reached for his spare dagger. The kobolds all ran by. He peered out from behind the rocks to see looked up at the dagger as it soared higher and the mark of Garn’s warband on the cloaks of these higher flipping end over end. A moment later trolls. Ethan grabbed his bag and began following Ethan lunged and thrust his daggers into two this group of trolls. They led him to a Midgard kobold chests then swung around slashing another settlement right off the coast. As Ethan moved trolls throat then as the other 3 drew their axes closer to try to get an accurate count another and Ethan threw his left handed dagger at one group of trolls came marching into town. With this of the trolls piercing his skull as if it were made group was a shaman. The shaman spoke to Garn of cloth. The second troll charged him and Ethan
102 evaded his charge by spinning away. As the kobold Ligen. The guards would not her pass even after passed Ethan he threw his second dagger into the she offered them money. As she was leaving she spine of the kobold. The last kobold looked around bumped into a young Lurikeen wearing a Steeple at all his fallen comrades and the lone Lurikeen hat so low that it hid his eyes. She apologized for standing there empty handed. The troll smiled and bumping into him and he grabbed her hand. He then began laughing furiously. Ethan then placed placed a dagger in her hand and told her that Ethan his hand behind his back catching the dagger he had given it to her. He went on to tell her of their had tossed into the air. The last kobold opened his encounter and that Ethan had been seeking the eyes to see a dagger sticking out of his skull. His Kobold Garn. Conchobair then told her of a way vision turned red and he fell to the floor. she can get passed the gates. Seems Conchobair had been traveling back to Failte once a month Ethan walked over and collected his three daggers to pay his respects. He showed Alexis to small and awaited the next group. The shadowy figure opening he had dug to circumvent Druim Ligen. As with the wounded leg began limping towards him. she exited the small cave Conchobair said, “forgive Ethan waited in anticipation to get a good shot at me mi lady, but I do not believe I asked ye your him. When the figure was almost in range an arrow name.” Alexis looked back to him and answered pierced Ethan’s leg from behind causing him to fall “Foghladha… I shall be known only as Foghladha”. to the ground. Ethan attempted to rise to his feet With that she turned to the long road ahead and again and an arrow pierced his shoulder. Ethan fell marched off towards Emain Macha. to the floor yet did not shed a tear. He did not rise again. He laid there quietly asking Anu to protect She arrived in Emain Macha on the first night of his wife and children. Two trolls approached him winter. The rains hammered Hibernia as if the taking his bow and daggers. They sat him on his Gods were angry. Another day passed and she knees all grew quiet. neared the village of Failte. She found a few of Ethan’s wooden animals he liked to carve while he The limping figure approached Ethan and as he was away and began searching for clues to where looked up he saw the wounded Kobold Garn. Garn he had gone. She found a trail of footprints too drew his axe took a hand full of hair in his hand large to human and followed them. By daybreak and swung. Garn raised Ethan’s head and roared. she was at the Midgard encampment. She counted Ethan’s limp body fell to the floor and a loud roar at least two hundred Midgards and decided it could be heard as far as the mile gate. would be best to take the slowly.
Then next morning another scout opened the mile The first was mage that had left the camp to gate to see a box sitting in front of it. He opened empty his grog filled bladder. Foghladha crept up this box and began go gasp. It was Ethan’s head, behind him drew her dagger and slit hit throat. all which had remained of him. His head traveled She then took her dagger and cut his kneecaps back to Tir na nOg with a message written on his out of his body and placed them in her bag. She forehead. This appalled King Fagan. He had his then snuck back to the foothills overlooking the best scribes try to translate the carvings on Ethan’s camp and began sharpening the two kneecaps into forehead and sent a messenger to notify his family. four arrowheads. By nightfall she had four arrows made of bone and creped back into camp. She A couple days later the messenger arrived in watched as a patrol of 5 guards began to set out to Howth and delivered the message to Alexis. Alexis the woods. She followed the quietly. was mesmerized by the letter and literally turned white. She went into her house and gave Banning As they entered the clearing one of them spun and Alaois a hug and kiss and told them that she around at the sound of a bow being drawn. He must travel north. She told them their father had began feeling cold and looked towards the ground asked her to meet him. Banning and Alaois smiled to see an arrow in his chest. The troll went limp un-expecting and Alexis packed her bag and rode and fell to the ground. Before his body hit the floor off into the mist. two more arrows flew through the air hitting one troll in the chest and the other in the eye. The last Several days passed and Alexis arrived at Druim two troll drew their weapons and stood back to
103 back. The creak of one last bowshot was the last handed the young lady a solitary seed and said thing either of these trolls heard. An arrow pierced “Where you find this seeds siblings, you will find both of their necks sending them into death before the hope of Hibernia. It is imperative that you seek they could even speak. Foghladha then took the out the other 9 seeds and bring them into your five trolls and gathered their kneecaps and once family, uniting all 10 families.” again began carving arrowheads. The young lady shed a tear of happiness knowing The next season Foghladha took the trolls out that there was hope for her two young boys. Anu one by one taking their kneecaps after each kill. then asked, “What might be ye name young lady”. The Midgard’s began fearing the legend of the The young lady paused and grinned and said Nightwalker and rarely left the camp without “Foghladha” Anu looked curiously at Foghladha an armed escort. By the time winter had begun and asked “Dost ye have no surname?” Foghladha Foghladha had slain over two hundred Midgard’s replied “I had a name long ago but the loss of and she had only one more that she desired. The my husband Ethan caused me to banish my own Kobold Garn. She followed his movements for name. I want him to be the last to ever speak my days and finally took her shot. For the first time in name. So I took on his surname as my own name.” nearly two seasons she missed. Garn turned and Anu smiled and said “I happy to know that the fate saw her and began to run. He managed to escape of our land lies in the hand of someone who acts and fled back to Midgard. out of love. Love and friendship will be the reason Hibernia prevails. If you hold love and friendship Foghladha ridden with sorrow went home. She above all else ye will succeed.” Foghladha nodded had failed in killing the man that had slain her and looked to the ground with a slight blush. husband and vowed to slay this Kobold before she When she looked up Anu was gone. She placed the left this world. She set off for Carragh dé Earsadh amulet around her neck and turned to walk away. to ask one last favor of the Gods. That’s when she stumbled upon a little Lurikeen named Anwell. He had seen the whole thing and Meanwhile, The Tuatha de Anu began seeking was awestruck. He was stuttering as if he were the 10 Seeds of Anu. The 9 Gods traveled far and freezing cold. Foghladha placed her hand on his wide and the goddess Anu had saved one seed for head and said “believe what you saw for I saw it herself. This seed was to be used to form the family as well.” Anwell looked into Foghladha’s eyes that would bring the families together. It was at the and said, “If you will have me I would like to help foot of the stones of Carragh dé Earsadh that Anu you find this family”. Foghladha agreed and the noticed a young lady broken by rage and sorrow Gaiscioch na Anu was formed. kneeled in prayer. Her husband had been slain and she was left to care for her two young sons. She had just returned from Emain Macha after several moons of tracking her husband murderers. Her rage had consumed her so deep that she had lost touch with all sense of reality.
It was at this moment that Anu appeared next the center stone and lifted the young ladies chin to look her in the face and wiped a cold tear from her eye. She said “Worry not my child your destiny is not that of your husbands. You must find strength and prevail over the demons that besiege you.” She placed into her hand a golden Amulet with an embossed leaf upon it. On the other side was carved the words Gaiscioch na Anu. Anu then spoke “Take this Amulet and form a family so great it could protect all of Hibernia. Do this in my honor and the land shall be saved.” She then
104 105 106 107 108 Welcome to the World of ArcheAge
By: Amanda “Soren” Carr
As one of the most highly anticipated Korean MMORPGs making its way to North America (rumored to be sometime this year) Trion, alongside partner and developer XL Games, look to breathe life into an epic sandpark MMO that promises to deliver all kinds of out of the box fun and a game that you can truly play how you want, when you want.
All players begin their journey on either the Nuia or Harihara continents. From there they explore the world, cooperating or competing with each other as necessary to survive. Remnants of the Lost Continent, where the ancestors of the world’s races lived together in peace two thousand years ago, still dominate the landscape. If you explore deep into the hearts of these ancient relics, you may discover the secrets of legendary gods and heroes or if you are very lucky, you may reveal more details about the catastrophe that caused the Nuia and Harihara schism.
109 Build Creators & Factions, Guilds & the Theory Crafters Unite! - The game offers a simplistic Pirate Isles Classes & Skill Sets system to get players into the In ArcheAge there are four ArcheAge presents a class and game fast. By simply leveling playable races spread over two skill system that can surprise you gather skill points which can continents: the Nuians and even the most veteran of MMO be used to unlock various skills the Elves share the western players. With 10 interchangeable within each skill tree. Skills are continent- Nuia, while the Firran skills sets and the ability to then selected and a simple drag and Harani inhabit the eastern have 3 slotted at any given time and drop will allow you to place lands- Haranya. All 4 races are once level 10, players will find skills on 1 of 4 unique skill bars. loosely connected by ties long themselves with a whopping Learned skills can be swapped preceding the Exodus however, 120 unique character classes to out at any time a player is not allegiances are fluid and further choose from. Have a warrior that in combat making choosing complicated by the Pirate and you want to control the undead abilities based on certain fights player made factions inhabiting and give buffs via bard songs? or areas a player may wander into the world. Aside from just Go for it. Have a rogue that you a breeze. But it doesn’t just stop meeting up with fellow players want to be able to tank and sling there! Choosing skills that have in your own faction, ArcheAge spells? Go for it. Have an archer synergies with each other will goes out of its way to let players you want to control the elements allow players to string together group up and run with family and heal? You can do that too. powerful combos that can be and friends in a more personal And you aren’t just limited to unleashed on their enemies with way. one class either. Should you sometimes devastating effects. wish to change and tinker with Families: Similar to a guild, you character class you can, for a Alongside basic and combat skills Families allow for smaller nominal fee, meaning if a player players will also have access to tight knit groups of friends and wanted to they could unlock all 21 Proficiency (Crafting) skills, players ranging from 2-8, to 120 classes on one character. 10 languages, and 46 emotes. play with each other regardless
110 of faction. Families also have a settings can only be applied savory. Luckily there is a Crime couple perks that make them to the East and West factions. and Punishment system in place worth looking into such as the Currently no member cap. to help keep things in balance. ability to share property rights Good Samaritans, aka fellow (houses, farms, shipyards etc) as Pirate Faction: Aye, shiver players, may report crimes if well as a custom chat channel. me timbers matey! If pirating they happen to stumble across The family system runs parallel be in yer blood ye should be or witness anything that could to the guild system meaning you joining the crews of the Silent be questionable. For example, can be in both a family and a Ocean! That’s right, if thieving, Murders tend to leave bloody guild and gain all the benefits of! stealing, bribing, pillaging and spots on the ground where the plundering are your life’s calling event took place while theft Expeditionary Forces the Pirate’s Faction is for you! will leave a trail of footprints (Guilds): Expeditionary forces Anyone who has been exiled to follow. As players continue are the lifeblood of the game and from their current faction by to commit various crimes they are required to explore deep into collecting 3000 crime points can will accumulate crime points enemy territory, take and claim be a pirate. Crime points can be (shown in the character panel). land on the Northern Continent, gathered by committing various The severity of the transgression move large amounts of trade felony’s in the eyes of you fellow will determine how many crime packages in relative safety, build players. Once the requirements points are handed out. If a player guild houses/towns/castles and for becoming a pirate have has 50+ crime points they will declare war. In order to form been met you will automatically be sent to prison on their next one, players must be at minimum added to the faction and have death. This is where the real fun level 5, have a full party and the access to the Pirate Isles. Keep begins! required gold to create and are in mind that as a pirate your limited to faction only members. reputation will precede you so Upon awakening in jail, players Expeditions are currently have keep an eye out for other greedy have the option of giving a guilty no cap on alpha but that may pirates, trade escorts, players plea for a maximum sentence or change yet. and bounty hunters. Currently if they are feeling brave, can go no member cap. up before a randomly selected Player Factions (Nation): jury of their peers and attempt Ambition is key! What good are The Justice System to sway the jury in their favor. guilds if you can’t join forces As an MMO with a high amount Jurors are selected at random with like minded others? With of freedom, you can bet your last from a pool of players over level thoughts of expansion firmly in copper that ArcheAge has quite 30+ that have volunteered for your mind, and alliances to plot a few players who are less than jury duty and when selected, are and plan, it’s time to usher in a new era of national independence! Any guild owning territory on the Northern Continent can choose to run a special quest and upon completion, have their Expedition Force reborn as a new faction. New factions allow you to combine players of other factions regardless of race or previous faction. So long as they are willing to join your faction everyone will be one big happy family. Player factions have the ability to communicate and establish independent relations to other factions. Currently these
111 presented with a window listing Live Like a King - Player the accused’s crimes. They then Housing Mounts: Your first mount will have the option to ask questions The ArcheAge housing system come from one of you early and hear defenses in a special is a complex yet highly quests, usually before level 7, chat window for trials (open entertaining open world system though you can also get various to the public). The jury is then that is accessible to anyone mounts from merchants and rare asked to vote guilty or not guilty. playing the game, the same way drops. When a player receives a The amount of guilty votes will your house in the real world mount it is usually a baby and determine how much time a is there and anyone can come will need to be raised until they player will serve and can range knocking. Leave a door unlocked grow into furry companion. from as little as 1 minute to well or a window open and don’t be Once fully grown, mounts can be over 726 minutes. surprised if things tend to go summoned into the world. They missing. Housing requires that have their own stat bar, skills, Since prison life isn’t meant to you have a few things in order exp, and equip slots. You can be glamorous and a deterrent before you can begin building ride them, feed them, or simply for future crimes. When a player such as blueprints and materials have them follow you around. is sentenced they will receive a like wood and stone. Blueprints Each mount comes with its own severe debuff that lasts until all can be found for various things special abilities so it is always time is served. like, houses, farms, and castles. good to make sure your mount matches your needs. Some Players, while in prison do have a mounts include Elk, Deer, Bears, few options to help pass the time Travelling in Style Cows (yes you can milk your own such as soccer, chat, dig, kill rats The world of ArcheAge is massive, cow), Unicorns, Donkeys and and of course, escape! with a huge range of landscapes Yata! to seek out and explore. What better way to get around the Gliders: Take to the air and world than with a variety of enjoy a bird’s eye view of the transportation options! entire world! The basic glider
112 can be acquired through an level and zone, and zones are early quest and can be upgraded Portals: Players have the ability divided into 3 types: through the crafting system at to quick travel to memorized various levels. Every glider has locations by using reagents Newbie Zones: can’t engage in some basic stats such as: Flight known as Hereafter Stones. any pvp and pretty much safe speed, gliding ability, turning As you journey through the until level 31+ zones. Beware speed, and decent speed. As an continents you will encounter pirates though added bonus gliders also have Memory Tombs in various a combination of abilities that towns that will let you record Same Faction Peace Zone: When can do everything from improve your location and allow you in these zones you can’t be flight time to dropping bombs on to set a recall point if desired. attacked by those of opposing enemy factions. World Portals on the other hand factions unless you attack first. are stored and saved in your Attacking a player in this zone Boats: Oceans are just as characters teleport book. They means that only they can attack expansive as the land based areas can be used by simply opening you back making this an ideal with tons of unmapped areas your book and clicking on where area to test your skills in 1v1 ripe for exploring. Travel on the you’d like to go. fights high seas can be dangerous and rewarding and explorers will Same Faction War Zone: Each have access to a variety of ships Open Warfare - PvP zone has 5 of these areas. When such as, rowboats, clippers, World PvP in ArchAge is quite they are in conflict or at war you merchant ships, submarines, a bit different than your regular can be attacked by anyone in the war ships and fishing boats. MMO. Those that have played zone including your own faction. EvE: Online will be rather After a certain amount of time Ground Transport: Enter the familiar with the open world has passed the zone enters a world of steam-tech! Roadsters environment – Think Null-Sec. peace state where no one can and Farm Wagons rule the Players that enter into these attack each other. roads and open areas and can areas can be attacked and killed be an asset for fast traveling and by anyone depending on which Open PvP: Open water and the efficiency in trade. Keep in mind zone they are in. Northern Continent are always traffic laws are non-existent and at war so tread carefully. accidents are common. PvP is largely dependent on your
113 Pirate Faction: members of this if the defending guild brings and boss raids, combined faction can attack anyone at any in mercenaries the attacking with the open world and ever time regardless of faction or guild is allowed to bring in changing sandbox elements location. Being a pirate however reinforcements after 20 minutes of the market and pvp, means means you are not welcome on so the battle has the potential to Archeage has the potential to be the East or West continents and be 100 vs 100. something fresh and unique. you can be attacked by anyone at any time including NPCs. PvP isn’t just restricted to land ArcheAge has a certain nostalgia however. Head on out to the high that older MMOs had, and brings Eventually players are going to seas for some epic unrestricted with it a lot of the older game be drawn to the hostile Northern naval warfare! That’s right! On systems not seen since I first continent in search of riches the high sea’s there is no rules dabbled in EvE. The world feels and more lucrative trade deals, and anything goes! Not only do alive and the community plays and in the case of Expeditionary you have to watch out for other an important role in shaping the Forces, claim land for their merchant ships, mercenaries overall experience. chosen faction. Owning land and pirates, you need to be extra does have its perks such as being wary of things that lurk deep Currently the game is in its able to build a castle, build a within the oceans depths. Alpha stages with closed beta guild town and charge taxes set to begin sometime in June. If for those living there, gain rare you are looking to get in on the resources and of course gain the Throwing Everything action early and or just want to ability to siege other castles. we know about MMO’s see what all the hype is about Out the Window feel free to wander over to www. Sieges start off as 70 vs 70 So far ArcheAge has shown that archeagegame.com/en and pick with the defending guild it isn’t afraid to think outside the up a Founder’s Pack or sign up having the option to hire up typical box. Standard themepark for the beta! to 30 mercenaries, however staples such as linear questing
114 115 Welcome to WildStar! by: Beth “Jae Onasi” Carlock with Crystal “Kamia” Gates
116 his newest MMO (massively-multiplayer online) game by NCSoft, who also brought Tus Guild Wars (GW) and Guild Wars 2 (GW2), just went live at the beginning of June. For those who have been playing WildStar, it is a fun romp through a new galaxy and focuses on the planet Nexus. The two main factions are the Exiles and the Dominion. The Exiles are escaping the rule of the Dominion, like the Independents in the show “Firefly” or the Rebels in Star Wars. The Dominion is trying to maintain strict control throughout the galaxy, much like the Empire in Who knew we’d find toilet paper! Star Wars or the Alliance in Firefly. While the story content is not nearly as fleshed The factions come together on one planet, called out as it was for each single class in SWTOR, the “Nexus.” The adventures start on the ship and stories are different depending on the faction landing zone and take off from there. you play, and each class and race have had their tales tweaked to allow a more unique fit into the WildStar universe. If you enjoy witty banter and lots of quips, you’ll love the dialogue in this game. Setting up a character is straightforward, though it might take you awhile to get through all the choices. There are different server types: PvP (player versus player), PvE (player versus environment), and RP (role-playing) PvP and PvE servers. Each faction has four different races and six classes. On top of that, you can choose four paths. Paths are designed to accommodate a player’s particular
An Aurin Esper in the Exile faction style of gaming, whether that’s running all over a map to learn every tiny detail or to build items for personal and guild use.
This Draken Warrior is from the Dominion faction Faces can be selected from one of the templates and then further The art style is bright and cartoony. This isn’t the customized. Enjoy the Jetson hair. game for those who prefer to stick to pure realism— it’s far more geared to light-hearted fun. The Like Elder Scrolls Online, there is tremendous details are hilariously over-the-top, and the quips customization in skills and crafting in addition in game are worthy of the banter written for Han to the classes and races offered at the start of the Solo or Star Wars: The Old Republic’s (SWTOR) game. While you may choose a Human Esper Smuggler and Bounty Hunter storylines. at the beginning of the game, your character’s gameplay may be entirely different from another Human Esper depending on the skill trees you select throughout the game.
117 button for long to move their toon, such as those with limited hand movements. Adjustments can be made in the graphics and audio to help people with vision and hearing losses so that many more people can enjoy the game more fully. I give the WildStar team kudos for putting so much effort into being inclusive to as many players as possible.
Crafting materials won’t clutter up your main inventory bag, happily.
The combat animations are fun and easy for me to differentiate, which is great since I’m terrible at identifying these in general by sight alone. Many of the combat options can be adjusted in the settings if you prefer better immersion, and there are numerous add-ons for the game, very much JaeOnasi rescues five chattering veggies. Make sure like the add-ons that we can find for Elder Scrolls you have the sound on for this one. Online. These can be a tremendous help for both hard-core and casual players. While this is a subscription model game, the developers have created the C.R.E.D.D. system, Quests are easy to find, and the quest markers were where you can exchange paid play time for in- clear, especially in the tutorial zone. The directions game gold and vice versa. People who have limited were straightforward and the quest locations were “Real Life” funds can play the game, earn in-game not difficult to find. gold, and exchange that gold for more game time. People who want to be able to buy items quickly or need more gold for their favorite decorative item for their house can use real currency to buy in-game gold. This is similar to Turbine’s coin system in Lord of the Rings Online to unlock playable content or GW2’s gem store items—but also imagine being able to buy more game time with those gems. This makes WildStar more accessible to those with limited funds and lots of time to play, while allowing those with little time due to Real Life work, school or family demands to purchase some of their favorite skins and items if You can return to the quest giver or just call them from they choose that route. While one can argue about your phone when you complete an objective. play-to-win issues if high-powered items can be One thing NCSoft has worked hard on is including purchased with cash, I think NCSoft will work to options for people with various disabilities. There keep it all in balance. is a color-blind option for the three main different types of color vision defects located in the combat The Gaiscioch family does not have an official settings. Deuteranopia and protanopia are for those presence or guild in game, but a couple of guilds with red-green color vision defects (deuteranopia from our Tuatha, such as Harbingers of Light, have being the more common version—experiment to created a guild in game. Members of the family have see which works best for you), and tritanopia is for set up “Circles” on the Stormtalon server where we those with the rare blue-yellow color blindness. can join in to chat, give and receive help, and share I also noted a ‘click to move’ option, which is items more easily. Of course, we can always chat especially helpful for those who can’t hold down a in RaidCall, too, and everyone is encouraged to hop on and enjoy each other’s company. Details
118 on how to join a Circle are in the WildStar threads on the Gaiscioch forum. J: This game is REALLY quirky—the style is kind of ‘Disney animated steampunk While I had a chance to play the game in both open meets Firefly’ with its cartoonish graphics beta and early start, I wanted to chat with one of and ‘space western’ theme. What are your our members who had played WildStar longer favorite quotes or quests in game? and had more experience with it. Kamia has been enjoying the game, so I contacted her for an K: I am not very good at remembering quotes, interview, and she graciously consented to answer but it is non-stop enjoyable. Most games I all my questions. skip the text to just quest, but in WildStar, I am finding that I am reading everything. Jae Onasi (J): What drew you to WildStar? J: How do you feel about the C.R.E.D.D. Kamia (K): I was invited into the very first beta, system? and I accepted. I try to test one game a year in order to have some input. I loved it from the K: I am hoping it turns out to be a good system and start. I found the humor and the play style to offers a person a variety of ways to play and pay. I be amazing. I loved the cartoony characters. haven’t seen it in action yet, since it is early. It seemed like it would be a very fun game. J: Have you tried PvP, and if so, how did J: What’s your favorite class, faction, you like it? pathway, race, and so on? K: PvP is great fun. It is crazy and chaotic, which K: I like the Exile (faction) over the Dominion. I love. The PvP reminds me a bit of World of They are just looking for a home and trying to find Warcraft PvP with the various mission objectives. their place in the world. My favorite race so far is It is very fast-paced and a blast. the Aurin. I like the ‘cutsey woodsey’ person. My favorite class is Spellslinger - I tend to favor ranged J: Are there add-ons for the game, and if dps in any MMO that I play, and it has a wonderful so, what are the best ones and how can we combination of spells and damage abilities, along find them? with some nice heals. The pathway I have enjoyed the best is explorer as I like finding every nook and K: There are many add-ons that help the game. cranny, and there is a lot to discover. I have found mine from Curse. The couple that I am using are ZenRadar - which helps you find everything from lore books and crafting materials, AMP Finder - it helps you find all the AMP’s in the game, and a Junk seller add-on that sells all the junk with one click.
J: How is crafting?
K: Crafting is very unique. It consists of discovery and playing a game of hot or cold. I did find it very confusing to figure out on my own, but after One of the many lore books in game I watched a YouTube video on how to use the system, it made sense and became easier. J: What would be a good starter class for a new player? J: I saw that a couple players made level 50 in only a couple days on the Stormtalon K: I think every class is good; it really depends on server. Do you think there will be enough what type of play style a person enjoys. I say try content to keep players busy? them all and see what sticks best.
119 K: I believe there is plenty of content. WildStar for each class like GW, or is it dramatically is not like most games out there. You hit 50 and different in the way that SWTOR did so don’t just start raiding. You have to do adventures well? first, then expert ones, then dungeons, then expert dungeons, and many attunements all to get to K: It is pretty much the same storyline for each raids. I believe there is a lot of depth that exists in faction. The main difference is between the endgame. It is not easy content, so the challenge Exile and Dominion sides - and that storyline is level is high. amazing. The different races have small variations of storyline, but it is nothing like the great J: How do Gaiscioch members get together development that SWTOR did. in game, since this isn’t formally a Saighdear game? J: What is the ‘best/coolest/most awesome/ most emotional’ moment you’ve had in K: There are many posts on the forums with game so far? people’s names and what servers they are on. The easiest is to add that person as a friend. Once both K: I have enjoyed every part of this game. I am people are online at the same time, they can join really enjoying housing. The depth of what you a circle - which is like a guild, but it’s for chatting can do is incredible. and finding a group. J: Do you recommend WildStar? Are there J: How did you like character creation? player types who this game would especially appeal to? K: It’s not bad; I would like more hair and body options to really fine-tune what I want. There are K: I would recommend this game to everyone. It is some good customizations, but it’s mostly on the unique and has a great development team behind face. it. I love PvE, PvP, grouping, solo play, housing, and pretty much anything else. The depth and thought J: How easy or hard is it to figure out the that went into this game is incredible. I think a skill system? person that will enjoy the game is someone that doesn’t mind the cartoony style and appreciates K: I haven’t had a problem figuring out the skill some witty, not always obvious humor. system, but I have been gaming for many years and have played many different MMOs. J: How is combat? I thought the game made it really clear where and when I was J: WildStar seems to have tried hard to attacking or going to be attacked so I could accommodate players with vision and other dodge (a good thing for me, since I have disabilities (e.g., ‘click to move’ option, bad eyes myself), but it’s pretty obvious color blindness options, and so on). Have and may affect immersion for others. Then you used any of these or know anyone who again, I have all my combat settings turned has, and have they helped? on, so that may be part of it.
K: I have no knowledge of these items - I know the K: I think the combat is pretty intense. It is a game game has it, which I think is great. that is meant to challenge a person. It is always moving and changing. It is not a game where J: Is the loot as quirky as the rest of the someone can stand still. In regards to that, the game? developers made it very easy to see the big red areas of danger. K: Yes, the names and looks of the items fit right in with the quirky, fun game. J: The map system is very interesting—you can hit a button and an arrow and distance J: How does the basic storyline play out marker will show you which way to go, kind with the different classes? Is it the same of like a personal GPS. Do you like it?
120 K: The world is big and the interface is very should! I think the majority will love it. customizable. The maps have so much to do in each zone. If you’d like to try WildStar, players who have purchased the game were given three guest passes J: Anything you’d like to add or comment to share with friends, and we may still have one. on that we haven’t touched on? Check out the WildStar threads, and don’t hesitate to message one of us to see if we have a pass left. K: I think WildStar is a great game and think that We love to share fun games with family! anyone that wants to come over and try it out
Discover the Legendary Planet Nexus
121 122 The Witcher Series Comes to an Epic Conclusion By: Benjamin “Foghladha” Foley
123 s an avid lover of foreign film and Rivia as he hunts dangerous monsters that plague games, few titles have made my top the Nilfgaard Empire. A10 list from international developers. The international scene is rich in story, innovation, Over the years there have been 6 books published, and gameplay. Yet traditionally lacks the domestic a Polish TV series, a full length feature movie titled marketing of mainstream titles. Too many “The Hexer”, a comic book series, a tabletop game, times these titles slip through the cracks and go two card games, a board game, and a legendary unnoticed. video game series.
When you look back at games that have evolved At the helm of the game series is CD PROJEKT from books, there are very few that capture the RED, a Polish development studio based out of essence of the story and convert it into a visual Warsaw. There newest addition to the Witcher representation of the epic adventure within. series serves as the end of the Geralt of Rivia One Polish development studio took on the “White Wolf” story. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, is development of a game based on the 1986 short a mature, non-linear story with a vast open world story by Andrzej Sapkowski titled “Wiedźmin”. concluding the trilogy of epic adventure. The story centers around the witcher Geralt of
124 The final chapter of the Witcher series features more than 100 playable hours, 50 of which are for the main storyline alone. Travel by horse, boat, or foot across a terrain 20% larger than THE WITCHER (2007) Skyrim and 30 times larger than the Witcher 2. There are 36 alternate endings to this story which all unfold in a cinematic series of events capturing both the original work of Sapkowski and the visionary minds of the CD PROJEKT RED team.
Embark on an adventure through a mature story driven by player decision, full of unexpected events with memorable characters who both aid you in your quest and plot against you based on their own ambitions. This is the first of the series to allow you to explore both by land and The story begins with Geralt reappearing after by sea allowing you to traverse the previously being feared dead. He is found unconscious, unreachable Northern Kingdoms. dazed and with only a vague recollection of past events. This way, players unfamiliar with With the 3rd part of this series they have also Sapkowski’s works will be able to gradually introduced a living ecosystem that allows immerse into the fantasy realm. communities within the game to behave with Available on: PC / MAC such realism that the flora and fauna form and react to in-game events. CD PROJEKT puts all of their cards on the table for this final THE WITCHER 2: epic adventure that has an amazing amount of ASSASSINS OF KINGS (2012) promise.
If we know anything, we know that CD PROJEKT has a long history of delivering compelling stories along with it’s fare share of innovation in gaming. The third installment of the Witcher series will be the largest most ambitious project to date using the latest technology.
Additionally if you fancy creating your own world, REDkit allows you to mod the Witcher series bringing into the game fan made In the second chapter of the Witcher series a adventures and endless content to explore. time of untold chaos has come. Mighty forces REDkit comes with each of the titles and allows clash behind the scenes in a struggle for power even the most novice user to create their own and influence. The North Kingdoms mobile for world, quests, and world to explore. war. But armies on the march are not enough to stop a bloody conspiracy. Someone is hunting The Witcher 3 is set to release on February 15th, crowned heads. Every assassination attempt 2015 for Playstation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft intensifies the chaos, and might truly does Windows. If you have not had the chance to play make right. Cruelty and violence become the this exciting series be sure to head over to GOG. daily fare. com (Also run by the CD PROJEKT group) and Available on: PC / MAC / Linux / Xbox 360 pick up a DRM Free copy of the first two games which usually are on sale. This is sure to be an adventure you will not soon forget.
125 The Cast
GERALT OF RIVIA do you revert to force when it isn`t necessary. You are a witcher, a mutant. The sooner you accept As long as even a small possibility remains of this, the better. People will seek you out for your resolving a conflict by other means, you sheathe skills, but you must know to disappear when your your sword rather than tempt fate. However, you presence is no longer desired. You are unique, are unrelenting and without remorse when you different. This puts you in the same precarious must fight. You`re no saint, and not out to save position as non-humans who find themselves the world. Ultimately, you simply want to survive impaled or hanging from nearby trees. That while remaining true to your profession. they exist and are different triggers resentment, animosity and hatred among common folk, who TRISS MARIGOLD will use any pretext to show them their proper At first she was known as the owner of the most place. How is it then that witchers, while equally beautiful auburn hair; a promising, yet modest non-human and different, do not share the fate of sorceress. When everyone thought that she had these poor devils? The answer is twofold. died together with thirteen other magicians during the Battle of Sodden, she was called the Fourteenth First, relatively few of you walk this earth. of the Hill. Therefore, one is far more likely to encounter an elf than a monster-slayer such as yourself. And Thanks to her wisdom and courage she has second, you possess a couple of rather forceful earned herself the title of King Foltest`s adviser deterrents, a solid sword and a simple set of life and nowadays no one questions her position in rules. magic and politics. The rulers take her opinion into account, and young trainee sorceresses learn Your blades are your lifeline. It`s therefore about Merigold`s Hailstorm, a powerful spell unsurprising that your ability to wield them is which stopped the rioting in Rivia. renowned, or that very few are keen or even willing to risk their lives by engaging you in combat. Still, The gates to the witcher stronghold, Kaer Morhen, your prowess has not led to arrogance. Neither are always open for her. Geralt could always count 126 on her, together they defeated sinister Salamandra ZOLTAN CHIVAY and stopped the rebellion of the Grand Master of Zoltan Chivay is among the few who can consider the Order of the Flaming Rose. After the attempt themselves Geralt`s close friend. They met years on the life of King Foltest, Triss and Geralt once ago and very much by accident, when Geralt, again work together. The sorceress can once more pursuing his destiny, was seeking Ciri, and Zoltan be with her beloved man. Against all adversities. was looking for a fight and a chance to get rich. Amidst the turmoil of war, they saved each other`s DANDELION skins many times, which transformed their chance The world needs heroes to protect the innocent acquaintance into a friendship that endures to this from evil just as heroes need bards to ensure day. that their names are remembered, to sing ballads about their heroic exploits and noble, albeit dopey In breaks between bloody melees, Zoltan strives to demises. Though roadside taverns are full of home- cultivate beautiful dwarven traditions that include grown buskers who call themselves minstrels, only picking fights in taverns, losing his coin at cards, a few actually matter, and Dandelion is arguably or getting drunk as if there was no tomorrow. chief among them. Calling him the greatest artist Invariably curious about the world, Geralt has among lovers hardly does him justice; calling him often joined in these rituals, usually regretting the greatest lover among artists, well... dozens of this the following morning, when a hangover seduced women can`t be wrong. obliterated any doubts as to what had happened the night before. Despite all, Geralt values Zoltan`s Dandelion has been travelling with Geralt for friendship as well as the edge of dwarf`s battleaxe, ages, and though it`s impossible to say how it mindful that it is always better to wake up with a all began, it`s hard to imagine them going their splitting headache than to wake with no head at separate ways. Dandelion has a foul tongue, a all. jester`s sense of tact, and an ego the size of a small kingdom. These are the traits that would lead the two companions to the scaffold were it not for the swiftness of the witcher`s sword. Such is the price of friendship...
127 128 Star Trek Online: Improving Over Time By: Donald “Donaliam” Rush
129 On February 2, 2010 my dream of commanding The Second Chance my own starship came true with Star Trek On- About 3 months after launch, a relative gave me line (STO) leaving Spacedock. I had only played a play time card for STO, so I decided to give it one beta weekend and was not able to play for another try. They had just launched their Season very long, so I didn’t know whether I would enjoy 1: Common Ground patch in March 2010, which the game or not. After purchasing the game and added some higher level content, new ships, inputting my code for a Star Trek Original series added captain skills, achievement systems, a starship, I began to play. crafting system revamp and UI Improvements. I tried the crafting system out and didn’t really get I enjoyed the space combat and was excited for into it. Some of the UI improvements made the this game, even with the long queues and lag time game somewhat more enjoyable, but the ground on launch day. Then came ground combat, which missions were not that much better. I still was killed my enthusiasm. The ground combat was not impressed and wasn’t really having that much very clunky, and the reaction times were terrible fun, and after a few more months, I dropped the for an MMO. It reminded me a lot of a slightly subscription again. faster version of turn-based style of combat. It was almost a year later when I came back to try Since the ground combat was not enjoyable, I it out again. STO had launched a new 3rd person tried my hardest to avoid these missions as much shooter mode option for the ground combat with as possible. That proved difficult since the story their Season 4 patch. It was a huge upgrade, and missions required some planet-side activities. As I decided to renew my subscription for some time the rest of my free month went on, I became more again. The ground combat was now playable in and more disappointed with the game, and so I the action shooter style to which I was accus- decided to cancel my subscription. tomed playing.
130 Going Free to Play Perfect World announced in September 2011 that STO would be free-to-play (f2p) in the upcoming Season 5 patch. The change to f2p occurred in January of 2012. I know the f2p versus pay-to- play is an ongoing debate in the MMO commu- nity, but in this case f2p with a cash shop was a smart move that likely saved the game. Gamers could now buy ‘zen’ (the in-game currency) and get special starships, uniforms, mini-pets, and weapon skins. These ships were not any better that the ones included in the base game, but they were better skins. I know I spent some cash on some of the starships as well as different uni- Continuing on into the forms. Undiscovered Country What I find the most enjoyable about this game First Expansion is some of the newest ‘episodes’ that bring back November 13th saw the launch of the “Legacy of some old stories from the various TV series. Romulus” expansion which included the Romu- Perfect World has also brought back some of the lans as a playable race. In addition to playing as series actors for voiceovers in addition to Leon- Starfleet or Klingon officers, players could now ard Nimoy as Spock. Michael Dorn plays Worf, start as a Romulan refugee trying to help estab- Tim Russ reappears as Tuvok, and Denise Crosby lish a new homeworld following the destruction returns as Tasha Yar with some very fun story of Romulus. Upon establishing the homeworld missions. Star Trek Online continues to improve players then had to decide to either ally with the with each new season, and I find myself enjoying Federation or the Klingon Empire. With this new more of what the game has to offer. I personally race came a whole bunch of new ships to play will continue the voyages of my starship, seek with, which is the most appealing thing to me. out new life and new civilizations, and boldly go Flying through the universe in the latest ship is a where no one has gone before. lot of fun.
131 132 Star Wars Canon: Updated Version! By Beth “Jae Onasi” Carlock
o you have the burning desire to argue whether Darth Vader, Revan, or Em- “I’m not sure why discussion of Dperor Palpatine is the most powerful? Have you ever wondered if Revan would pwn Star Wars canon can inflame Darth Maul’s butt? (Yes) If you have, you’re a the level of hatred normally geek. If you’ve ever debated these life-altering reserved for baby killers and issues on a Star Wars forum and brought up ‘can- tax collectors, but it happens.” on’ (or ‘cannon‘, for those who prefer the artillery version), you are a complete and utter geek. If you’ve moderated a motley bunch of geeks, well, emails from forum administrators and moderators you’re so geeky, your geekiness has reached a who were ‘having to deal with too darn many level of nerd nirvana normally reserved for peo- threads on arguments over Canon’. ple like Bill Gates, except with a whole lot less money. 1st degree Canon shall be The Movies. Radio adaptations, so long as they include voices from As a super-moderator on one of these forums, the Original Actors (and Actresses) shall also be 1st I’ve done two things. First, I’ve escaped being degree Canon. The Screenplays are also 1st degree made an administrator, because the Geek Factor Canon, but only if George Lucas put a ‘GL’ on just might make the universe explode. Second, every page. The official soundtracks are 1st degree I’ve moderated people who are fighting about Star Canon, because John Williams has included Wars canon. Yes, I said fighting. I’m not sure why the use of both the bassoon and the triangle in discussion of Star Wars canon can inflame the his music, and quite possibly the krummhorn. level of hatred normally reserved for baby killers Anything spoken by George Lucas is first degree and tax collectors, but it happens. If you ever see Canon, including those more mundane statements a “Revan vs. X” thread on any forum, I guarantee like ‘I want to order a pizza’ and ‘I have to find the you that the “it’s not canon!!!11!!11!eleventy- nearest restroom.’ one!!11!!” argument will appear even faster than a mention of Hitler in a political/religious thread. 2nd degree Canon shall include those radio adaptations that deviate from the script slightly After moderating a number of these threads, but still maintain the ‘True Spirit’ of the movies. and surely not influenced by the level of 151 rum Those radio adaptations that include the voices of in my cup that night, I decided to chime in on the Harrison Ford or Liam Neeson shall automatically canon argument. This is my updated version. be changed to 1st degree Canon, because their voices are really sexy. If JJ initials script pages, st Six Degrees of Canon those may be elevated to 1 degree Canon, but his st st We at WookieWikiWarrickWicketpedia 1 degree is not quite as high as George Lucas’ 1 understand that we have entered a new era of JJ- degree, because he uses too darn much lens flare. canon with the anticipation of Star Wars VII, VIII, Those adaptations that include excess amounts of and IX (and possibly other Roman numerals— Jar-Jar Binks or Ewok cuteness shall automatically we’re not sure). We wish to clear up the confusion be reduced to 6th degree Canon or less. of ‘Canon’ in Star Wars by instituting a new classification system on how to rank the different 3rd degree Canon shall include any books Star Wars and Star Wars EU materials, despite that George Lucas decides shall be 3rd degree, the fact that Disney is summarily ignoring the EU. which is pretty much everything else not in the 1st This will replace the Canon-a, b, c and g system and 2nd degrees. It’s his world—if he wants to say (along with other letters and symbols), which was a book is 1st degree or 6th degree, we shall bow to becoming just too confusing, resulting in many his greater wisdom. The exceptions are the Vong
133 books, which shall be reduced to 6th degree or the figures are 5th degree Canon, unless they involve 9th circle of Dante’s Inferno, whichever comes Yoda, Han Solo, or Luke Skywalker. These are 1st last. All Star Wars games are 3rd degree Canon. degree Canon because I like them and Frank Oz The Knights of the Old Republic games, because rules. they are Really Righteous, are 2nd degree Canon. We hereby declare all permutations of Revan and 6th degree Canon includes any speculative Exile to be Canon, because trying to pick just one posts on any forums. It also includes any non- is really ticking off the fans. The Star Wars Lego speculative posts, comments, jokes, pictures, games would be 4th degree Canon because of the and other written, visual, or aural media. Jedi ‘cutesy factor’, except for the fact that my kids Knight mugs are 6th degree, unless they contain really like the games, so they stay at 3rd degree. 151 rum and/or Corellian Ale, in which case they automatically get the fast pass to 1st degree. 4th degree Canon includes any comic books. Anything else not already specified shall be 6th Graphic novels remain at 3rd degree because degree Canon, unless the author finds something ‘graphic novel’ sounds way more cool than ‘comic she really likes, in which case the Degree of Canon book.’ The exception is the Knights of the Old may be altered accordingly. Forum posts that are Republic comic book series, which is destined to written by administrators or moderators shall be become a Graphic Novel when bound together, whatever Degree of Canon they desire, because and because they’ve drawn Zayne Carrick really the author feels the need to suck up, unless George cute. It’s at least 3rd degree, and we might even Lucas declares otherwise, because his 1st degree is make that series 2nd degree if sales continue to be more equal than everyone else’s 1st degree. good. We hope this clears up any confusion about 5th degree Canon includes all fan-fiction, Canon. If you have any further questions, please unless they are “Really Good,” which, by our send an email to our help center at ‘we won’t definition, is anything with over 1,000 views on answer it anyway.idiocy’. We will do our best to LucasForums.com or over 15 thumbs-ups on make sure that the answer to your questions are kotorfanmedia.com. If they’re “Really Good”, answered with as much obfuscation as possible, then they can, at the option of the administrators, preferably by someone who does not even speak moderators or the author, move to 4th degree. The your language. exception is if the spam-per-view ratio approaches 1:82, in which case the fanfic shall be declared Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. ‘spammy’ and the fic drops to 6th degree. Action
eanwhile, in Cyrodiil... M
134 Instructions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Best Brownies Grease a 9×13 pan with oil or spray with cooking spray. By: Beth “Jae Onasi” Carlock Wet Ingredients originally picked up this recipe, 2 cups sugar “Best Brownies”, from the Columbus 1 cup canola oil (vegetable oil is fine if you I Dispatch about 20 years back, and don’t have soy allergen concerns) it’s been the only one we’ve used in my 4 eggs home since then. It was posted in my blog, 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional) Confessions of a Geeky Mom. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Dry Ingredients It’s better than any box mix and just as 1 cup flour fast to put together. The challenge will be 1/2 teaspoon baking powder not to eat them all before they cool off. 1/2 teaspoon salt 2/3 cup cocoa (regular, not the Dutch ver- It is dairy and soy free. If you like sion) 1 cup chopped nuts, optional male brownies, add nuts. If you have nut allergies, leave out the almond extract and In one bowl, mix together all the wet ingredients nuts. I think this counts as a pareve recipe until smooth. In another bowl, mix the dry for my Jewish friends, but someone can ingredients together, and then blend into the wet correct me if that’s wrong. ingredients. Pour the batter into the greased pan. Bake for 25 minutes, or until edges of brownie pull away from the edges of the pan. Do not use the My friends and I contend that all the ‘toothpick test’ to check if the brownie is done, or calories fall out when you cut the brownies, you will overbake it. When cool, cut into squares but I suspect nutritionists would frown and serve, if you can manage to wait until they’ve upon us for saying that too loudly. cooled. We never can.
135 Ingredients: 1-2 potatoes(any kind, me- 1. In a 12 inch skillet, cook po- dium size, chopped) tatoes until they are tender 2 eggs Morning (about 10 minutes on medi- 2 tbsp. taco seasoning um heat). ½ cup green bell peppers Scramble 2. Add in green bell peppers, (chopped) onions and taco seasoning. By: Jessica Hunt ½ cup onions (chopped) Cook 2 minutes. ½ cup cheese (mozzarella 3. Add 2 eggs and cheese. Cook Makes 2-4 servings or cheddar works best) till eggs are done completely. butter or oil (added as need 4. For additional flavor add during cooking) sour cream and salsa.
Needed: Size 8 knitting needles 1-2 Skeins of yarn (1 for 4. To bind off, knit 2 together Basic Rib ribbing/1 for main hat) for 2(4)rows One yarn needle 5. When you are done keep about 16 inches of yarn and Hat for thread a needle onto it. Instructions: 6. Pull it through the Children 1. Bind on 64(88) stitches with remaining stitches and sew size 8 needles the two sides together. or (Adults) 2. Knit one, Purl one for 10 by Esther Foley - G-Ma rows or 4 inches You’re done! Be creative and 3. Then Knit one row and Purl test out colors and yarns! the next for 8(12) more inches
136 Anthropological Research Study
Hello again Gaiscíoch Family! interviews please contact me - Michael Perez This is Michael Perez (Balry) checking in! I’m a (anthropology graduate student at FAU) in-game graduate student from Florida Atlantic University (Balry.9450 or @balry) or offline through the (FAU) doing my M.A. thesis on online gaming Gaiscíoch website or email [email protected]. communities; remember me? I sure hope so! I previously posted an announcement in issue 1 of To participate on the survey please visit: the brand new Gaiscíoch Magazine that offered https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ more details about my research project. MMOGamingCultureReasearch
This time, I am making a call to volunteering I ask that those of you who are bound under participants for this research study. We are NDAs (Non-Disclosure Agreements) please keep looking for adult (at least 18 years of age) in mind the information that you are not allowed Gaiscíoch member volunteers to participate to divulge. I am not interested in any confidential in an anthropological research study through information regarding these agreements. This is Florida Atlantic University. This study aims to why I avoid questions that may touch on those determine the elements that make the Gaiscíoch types of subjects. family a successful community and to expand the understanding of the border between the virtual Details about the research project and risks and physical space. for participating are delineated in the survey and interview consent forms. However, if you have any You can participate in one of two ways: either questions please do not hesitate to contact me in- in a voice-chat interview or through an online game Balry.9450 / @balry, via email mperez89@ survey answering questions about gaming styles, fau.edu, or via phone (954) 588-3296. opinions about the Gaiscíoch Family, and other demographic data. For participating in the Thanks for reading and your cooperation!
137 POPS’ MUSINGS OF LIFE By: Wally “Pops” Anderson
y wife, Diane, and I decided to go to an early show to see a new movie, thinking the crowds wouldn’t be as Mbad. We arrived a little early and were talking during the credits about our day. In came a young girl, followed by a man whom we thought was her father. They sat one row ahead and about two seats to the right. As they began to talk, it was clear the man was her father and their family had come on hard times.
The young girl seemed mature enough to allow them to enjoy have it all with no concern for beyond her years. She consoled this daddy/daughter date as in time or money, yet she had no her father that all would be okay times not too long ago. The father relationship of value with her and that she loved him. As they expressed gratitude for this child. On the other hand, the spoke, Diane’s eyes filled with expression of love, promising father, while perhaps having no tears, thinking how fortunate the girl they would get back to surplus cash, had a deep and this father was to have the love the good old times soon. meaningful relationship with his and support of this daughter. daughter. You see, the young girl had Next, entering while talking commented on how long it had on a mobile phone, was a woman been since her father had taken who appeared to be rushed and The movie started as the the time to relax. This young impatient. She took the seat right theater became dark. After about lady reminded her dad of the in front of us two rows down. She fifteen minutes, this mother and times past when they would had a combo snack with popcorn her daughter came marching in go to movies together, sitting, and a drink as well. It became through the doors. Their eyes talking, crying and laughing. obvious to us she was waiting for had not adjusted yet, so they had These were times she missed, someone, and they were to meet difficulty getting to their seats. she knew her dad did as well, but at the movie. This woman was The mother missed her row had dedicated himself fully to “put out” that she had taken off and proceeded to sit next to this correcting the ills the economy work early to meet this person father and his daughter. Now placed on their finances. who was late. She had unkind they were right in front of us so words over the phone; then we we could hear the frustration It became obvious to us, they realized she was talking to her in both the mother and her had chosen the matinée because daughter. daughter. They had words; the the tickets were less expensive. daughter stated, “Mom I knew They had bought a small value The mother stormed out of the this wouldn’t work. Let’s just drink and popcorn and were theater. Diane and I remarked leave. Who cares about this sharing it happily. This young at how the two families were stupid movie?” Shock registered lady had saved her money experiencing totally different on the little girl who sat next to from doing chores, to have just lives. The mother seemed to them as she was having the time of her life and didn’t understand. The mother had taken the seat “Have a generous heart; on the outside so the young girls it will serve you well.“ were sitting together. After a few minutes the
138 mother remembered she had when the mother asked if she At that time Diane and I bought treats and looked over could have the drink. “Yes, became aware of what had to see where they were. She certainly,” was the response of happened and were shocked to was shocked to see the man this girl as she handed it to the see her reaction as she handed and his daughter next to them lady. She then bent over to her back both the drink and the were eating the popcorn and dad and said, “Daddy, we don’t remaining popcorn. “I am so had the drink. She bent over really need those treats anyway; sorry,” she said. She was truly and whispered to her daughter, they are not having a good day.” embarrassed, as well as humbled, “That’s our popcorn they are She reached over and held her by the young girl’s generosity. The eating.” Her daughter said, “So father’s hand. The lady kept the lady reached for her purse and what?” But the mother kept drink and the popcorn. This got some money out to give the eyeing this family as they ate. didn’t seem to affect the father girl for her misunderstanding. or daughter at all. The young girl had no interest The young girl with the dad and suggested she was happy to could see the mother next to her The woman’s daughter leaned share. was talking about the popcorn over to her mother and asked if and wondered if they wanted she could go and buy some candy. As Diane and I drove home, some. She leaned over to her The mother snapped back, “Yes, we talked about how this simple, dad and said, “Daddy, I am why don’t you ask the family next yet profound, experience gave going to share our popcorn with to us if they want something,” us perspective on how easy it is these people. I don’t think they stating it sarcastically. “My purse to misunderstand. This woman have the money to buy some is under the seat. Just hurry,” thought the family next to her for themselves.” The father she exclaimed. The girl reached had stolen, when, in fact, they responded, “Sure, ask them, under the seat and was unable to had given the “widow’s mites.” but be quiet so we don’t disturb find the purse. Boiling over, the We realized how often others anyone.” This little girl reached mother leaned over her daughter deserve the benefit of doubt over, handing her bucket to her and said to the young girl sitting before we place judgment. neighbor in the next seat asking, next to them, “Did you steal my “Do you and your mom want purse as well?” Shocked, the little This is just a story; one I some popcorn?” The other girl girl clasped her father’s hand as wanted to use to illustrate the said, “No, I am good, thanks he said, “I don’t know what you following: Have a generous though.” The mother angrily are talking about. Could it be heart; it will serve you well. reached over, “Certainly we want under the seat you had when you Know as we go through life our our popcorn.” The little girl was came in?” “What are you talking impressions can be one hundred taken back but thought to herself about,” this mother snapped and eighty degrees from reality. that they must be hungry. back at the father! He kindly Our greatest relationships pointed to the row in front of come through selflessness and The mother kept the popcorn them and said, “This is the seat understanding. And, if we’re on her seat and ate slowly. After you took originally.” The mother lucky as we do so, we will find a few minutes we could see the looked on the row in front of that “What goes around, comes little girl was wondering if she them and saw her popcorn and around.” would get the popcorn back, drink.
“Our greatest relationships come through selflessness and understanding.“
139 he Gaiscioch Family extends far beyond the game. Our members have a very broad professional background extending from teachers to CEO’s. Our members Tare involved in the businesses, organizations, and government agencies below. We are very proud of our diverse community and support our members in all of their real life accomplishments.
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