Archives of TEC's Underground News
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Archive Dates 2001: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November |
November 29, 2001 - Inn Adds Space; Structure Collapses^Top^ On the 20th day of Jemros, YR 222, anxious shelter seekers gathered at the Stone Toga Inn when hearing that Julian, the proprietor, would be opening up a second floor for rent. The hordes descended upon the Inn (incidentally making this the highest grossing day for Constantine's bar since it opened) and anxiously milled about, waiting to see whether Julian would deign to rent them a room. Finally, several dozen people received their inn rooms and enjoyed them for some hours. Suddenly, though, a large smash was heard and the cry of one of the workers, finishing the renovations, echoed throughout the inn. The Stone Toga Inn was evacuated before it collapsed any further, but it is estimated the inn will be closed down for repairs for several days before readmitting tenants. No injuries were reported in the collapse. ~TEC News Staff November 23, 2001 - The Execution of the Traitor Scelectus In the afternoon of the 2nd day of Jemros in the 222nd year of the Republic, the traitor Scelectus was caught and executed. Scelestus was warranted for treason after freeing convicted Cineran spy Mekhia Gnaeus in a daring prison break some weeks before. A ten talent bounty had been placed on his head. Mekhia was taken into custody some days before Scelestus. Constable Lothar found and arrested Scelectus in the harbor area. Upon hearing of his capture, the Justice Talius Noraetis had him escorted to the podium, where he was to be executed. After the Justice spoke a few words to those that were there to see the killing, the traitor was executed by Constable Sergeant Shara, and sent to the pyres. ~CornBread and TEC News Staff November 22, 2001 - The Trial of Metharus Ther'ais On the evening of the 1st day of Jemros, in the 222nd year of the Republic, Metharus Ther'ais was brought to trial at the Harbor District Courthouse on the charge of the murder of Cassy, which took place on the 27th day of Aera. Constable Banic Ashe stood as the accuser, Cyrillicus was the representation for the accused, and Justice Talius Noraetis presided over the trial. The first witness was called by the Justice himself, a man named Tondrin Supules. Tondrin testified that the victim in this crime had once told him that her family lived in either Cinera or the Safelands, not Iridine. And she called that place home. This brings into doubt her dying claim that she was a citizen. On Cyrillicus' opening statement, he claimed that Metharus had not actually murdered her, Silvanos had cast the final blow. But in his statements, he made sure to mention that Cassy had claimed Cineran superiority over Metharus' Altene homeland. Once again, making it appear Cassy is a non-citizen. He also tried to point out Metharus' good character, with his working for the patrician Petitius Didyma. Banic's first witness was Constable Sergeant Lorican Farnarm. After a slight problem with communication, Banic proceeded to question the witness. Lorican stated that prior to Metharus' arrest, he had often seen him about the city with lowlifes, including branded thieves. He also stated that just before the accused was escorted from the prison to the courthouse for his trial, he had said something along the lines of "she wouldn't be dead if the others didn't jump in." Lorican later said he had assumed that Cassy was killed from the number of blows, not a single blow aimed to kill, as it was not mentioned when he was at the scene. On Cyrillicus' counter, he tried to discredit the witness because Lorican was not there until after the crime had been committed. He also tried to discredit the mention of Metharus' association with a branded thief, because he'd seen that same man hunting with constables before. Banic's next witness was Constable Sergeant Shara Rodus. She testified that a few days before in the jail cell, Metharus had told her, "Well you aren't the person whose ass I have to kiss in order to get out of here. I don't need a lecture from you about my attitude. I know how to act when. When my life is at stake." This draws anything he says in the court into serious question, as he could just be acting 'when his life is at stake'. The Accuser's final witness was Calgar Marmeous, current first general of the legions of the Sacred Circle. Calgar testified that prior to Metharus' arrest for Cassy's murder, Metharus had plotted to kill him. He said that Metharus is two faced and, "Just because he kisses the arse of Sir Didyma does not mean he's a good guy." Cyrillicus' first witness was Metharus himself. He told about what happened in the attack on Cassy. He then said Shara lied when she testified. He also claimed Calgar's words were off-base and untrue, it didn't happen like he said. He explained his version of the incident. Cyrillicus then called Kered Solace, second lieutenant of the legions of the Sacred Circle, who was present in the incident mentioned by Calgar. Kered confirmed the incident, but didn't really change anything but that it was all a misunderstanding. He then called Calgar back to the stand. He tried once again to discredit Calgar's earlier testimony, by pointing out the mutual dislike between the two. In their final statements, the accused both reiterated what they'd said before. Banic mentioned his low friends, and words to a respected constable, and Cyrillicus tried to cast doubt on anything that had happened. After a ten minute break for deliberation, Justice Talius Noraetis came with the verdict: Guilty. But he would not face the full penalty for murder. His punishment was given as time served, plus one additional month, a five talent fine and five public lashes, which were carried out immediately. ~CornBread November 21, 2001 - Apartments Robbed Also known as the "Blue Demon", the man in the blue hooded cloak has looted apartments and killed pets in Iridine in the monthes past. This mysterious man seems to have slipped in and out without arousing one suspicion, that is until the unlucky owner of the apartment realizes what has happened. The once safe insulas are found bare, not a trace to signify that someone even lives there, thanks to this hooded man. His trademark is a blue feather along with a mocking note to the owner, most often thanking them for what he stole (that is if he didn't take it all). It makes one wonder, "Is there really a safe place for my valuables in the city?" Well, of course there is! I would advise all insula owners or renters, and especially all inn room owners to take their valuables, pack them away in a trunk or crate and store them in the bank. In my view, this man is doing us all a favor by doing this and making us realize how the only really secure place for your goods are safely through the doors with the attendants of Seneda's. ~Livinia Ceris November 10, 2001 - Sulla Hosts Party, Demonstrates Peculiar Tastes A few days ago, the patrician Lucius Sulla hosted a small gathering at his domus in the city. The patrician Petitius Didyma was in attendance as well. Most of Sir Sulla's guests found his taste in decoration and artwork surprising, to say the least. His murals, in particular, included a general lack of clothing and several scenes that could make just about anyone blush. The strangely-shaped brass lantern should probably go unmentioned. While the guests of his party sipped on fig wine and ate honeyed violets, they entertained Sir Sulla with stories of their journeys to Hell and back. As they talked, Sir Sulla's brightly colored pet sheep peeked in; some of the bravest bounded quickly through the room. They seemed to come in all colors - pink, blue, and green being the most common. While all may not agree with Sir Sulla's original tastes, none left without a memorable evening behind them. ~Kiana
October 26, 2001 - Flood Reshapes Iridine's Sewers; Exposes Long-Hidden Lake After weeks of heavy rains, the waters below Iridine began coursing wildly, swiftly sweeping denizens of the city from one end of the sewers to the other. After several weeks of this flood, a section of the walls along the eastern branch of the sewers fell away, exposing a long passage leading to a large underground lake. It is supposed that the lake is fed by the Invex, and due to the rains this lake now runs its waters through the sewers and out to the Harbor. The waters still run fast in some parts of the sewers, and those not strong enough to endure it may be swept away. This underground lake seems to be home to all manner of creatures; large and small alligators, spiders, snakes, and innumerable rodents. ~TEC News Staff October 13 - A Spy is Killed After the Legio suffered a humiliating defeat by having several dozen soldiers killed and tortured, in addition to losing one of its standards, the men in charge of Legio I were not entirely pleased. Calling upon the men of the Wolf and Lion Squads, as they have so often done in the past, they asked that all possible steps be taken to save as many soldiers of Iridine as possible, return the missing banner, and kill the Cineran spy and saboteur Armagorus. Following a lead, the combined squads set out to the north of Vetallun. Eventually, these hardened soldiers came upon a small, Undone girl in the grasslands. After some coaxing, the girl, named Zerai, told of her cousins who had a camp not far from there, as well as discussing some "bad people" who scouted with owl noises and laughed raucously when no one else could hear. The reasonable assumption was made that these bad men were Cinerans. The girl led the soldiers to the campsite where her cousins were seated. The officers of the detachment, Decurio Wallace and Octio Dahkneth, spoke with the men and learned that the Cinerans were about, though the assembled Undone didn't give an exact position. Somewhat suspicious of the purple-eyed men, they allowed Octio Enkar to lead most of the group off while they stayed behind to observe the Undone. Lo and behold, as soon as the main group had walked off, the men at the campsite began hooting and laughing, an obvious call for the Cinerans. The Legio soldiers charged valiantly at the Undone, and were interrupted by an onslaught of Cineran regulars, led by Armagorus. As was usually the case, when the fight turned against the Cinerans, Armagorus fleed. This time, however, one of the Legion's recruits, Takius, pursued and was able to render unconscious the vaunted spy. With Kirre helping to restrain him, and at Decurio Wallace's request, Takius executed the spy. In a nearby wagon, the squads found both the missing Banner and its bearer, Vespus, and returned in triumph to the Vetallun fort. Congratulations go to all involved. ~Cauzway, Kalonis, Takius, TEC News Staff October 9 - Riding the Wave (and the Swan) All was well on the 5th night of Scran. A large group of interested parties were gathered outside the toga in the down pour of rain to wait a stewart for the Swan to take them to the supposedly fastest ship around the republic. A deck hand arrivied and took the huge party of countless people to be boarded. As the party arrivied they were welcomed by Captain Volius. The ship set sail and went out of the harbor a fare distance. While on board everyone had some excellent food, comparable to nothing in Iridine, mostly because it seemed the food was very fresh, being it was sea food and this was a ship at sea... As the Ship reached the peak in it's journey for the night and circled back toward the Iridine harbour as dawn broke, Suddenly another ship appeared and had set, what seemed to most as an interseption course for the Swan. Naturaly many were worried about this and soon rumors were flying around already cramped ship that the mysterious ship was pirates. This lead to wide spread panic as the supposedly relaxed evening swiftly changed as all the passenagers drew their weapons and prepared for a fight. The Captain soon took evasive actions and was able to keep ahead of the mysterious ship, where it disappeared when the Swan neared the protected Harbour of Iridine, leaving many disappointed and grumpy. The ship docked without incident and the passengers left to their own accord. Even including the mysterious ship sighting and scare, the evening was well enjoyed by all and leaving many dazed and confused from Captain Volius's private stock of fermenated fruit juice! Many took this oppunity to...invest in this fruit juice for their own private stock. Spending upwards of a talent for a large future supply of the drinks. ~Cauzway October 5 - A Merchant's Party Conversation was light-hearted while many of the entertainers of Iridine gathered at the Fountain located in the forums. After a short wait a dark-armored soldier appeared to lead us to Navaar's domus. After ridding our boots of the small rocks that proliferate in the area we arrived at Navaar's domus and were welcomed by the traveling merchant. M'kerron, present as Navaar's guard, kept the party conflict free during the night's entertainment. Credinus began with a poem, and was followed by such notables as Teek and Taskyavik with song and dance. Petras offered a lullabye that was short and peaceful and Luffy, who seemed afraid of M'kerron, also entertained us. Layra offered up a particularly cute song and dance number that Drunser eyed carefully. The evening got interesting when Drunser, offered up a dance of his own. It was so awful it was hilarious. Even M'kerron doubled over in laughter at Drunsers antics, which included careening into a wall, pretending to sleep under a table and leaping on said table. His attempts at seductive swaying cannot be stated in this, given the restrictions on propriety. Shade and Malik teamed up to help us restore our appreciation for art, by presenting a lovely song. Navaar seemed particularly touched. Taskyavik danced, as did I, and Malik followed with the most gripping account of a gladiator fight in the year 209 as I have ever heard. A man suddenly appeared in our presence, and the menace that exuded from him was palpable. His name was Talmachus, and he seemed to be known and perhaps even feared by both Navaar and M'kerron. One entertainer attempted to change the atmosphere by performing with Navaar's consent, but it was clear that the entertainment was finished for the night. Uncertain what to do, and without the direction of Navaar who seemed out of sorts with Talmachus' sudden appearance, the guests slowly departed. M'kerron, who was very shaken with the arrival of this new guest, was led out of the domus by a few concerned guests. Talmachus then led the distraught Navaar deeper into the domus, away from the few remaining guests, to conduct business of his own. Neither Navaar nor Talmachus have been seen or heard from since, though several have spoken with M'kerron and ascertained that he is alright- as alright, at least, as any man who has seen hell can be. ~Brassy, CecilxElessidel, Jolee and TEC News Staff
September 30 - Another Victory for the BVM We, the Blackvine Militia, all headed for the ancient bridge in Vetallun hoping for some excitement. We got it. After we all chatted for a bit a group of workers dragging some old rickety hand-carts came in. The leader of the group gave Captain Avalice a piece of parchment. The piece of parchment told Captain that there were some new bandits that seem to be led by Isdar, who have set up their base west of Salinae. So we picked some mules out of the group to begin with, Helio, Ixter, and myself to carry the hand-carts. We all picked one up and had Lorican ran ahead to scout. After only a matter of minutes we were attacked by a couple bandits who seemed like they wanted the hand-carts really bad. Within a matter of minutes more the bandits were defeated bravely and we had found all 3 of our carts and regrouped. We stood for awhile to let the injured heal and the tired recooperate. Then we marched off to the north heading towards the edge of oak forest. On the way we encountered some more bandits that came from stolen swamp boats. These bandits had arrows drawn from the river pointing at us, not many of our soldiers were struck so we moved on. After 3 or more changes of the hand-cart draggers we finally made it to the edge of the Oak Forest, just to hear a brigand get mad at us. Captain Avalice decided he wasn't going to let us pass so we might as well take them head on. We did just that and slaughtered them. We then followed the edge of the Oak Forest to blackvine, only to see smoke. When we got to the village square Governer Sedivain pointed out that there were Iridine Soldiers and Lieutenant Lanamor fighting Cinerans to the east. We all rushed over to see what was going on. The Cinerans were burning the meadows while Lieutenant Lanamor was almost killed trying to help the Iridine Soldiers. We slowly but effectively took down the Cineran Soldiers, Officers, and Footmen. Then we captured the Officer and arrested him. When we got back to the Village Square Governer Sedivain told us some good news and bad news. Bad news is always first. He said that Blackvine has many new enemys such as the new bandits that threaten the area. The good news is that with everybody fleeing from the north, from Cinera, Blackvine is becoming populated. People in the town are beginning to say they would like to set up shops. This can be good for the economy of Blackvine. Then we were fed by a couple of villagers, which was so kind. Then Captain Avalice told us that we are a bunch of good troopers and did well. Another victory for Blackvine. ~Pocethary September 29 - Bearer of the Banner A courier arrived at the Vet. Fort, promptly told Aulus, after some disorganization inside the fort that news of the missing column. The courier was short of breath having ran the entire trip on foot, as horses are hard to come by due to the shortage from the war. The message the courier arrived with told Aulus and followers of the group of a report by an officer on the front stating that he had encountered the remaining force in high retreat. Many if not most were injured, trailing down the road. From the what the officer could gather, the force was ambushed and cut in two. As the raiders cut off the end and let it retreat, the Bearer of the Banner a man known as Vespas, could be seen still ralling the brave Iridine soldiers together as the Cinner horde washed out the last sight of them. This report had a second grave impract...it meant not only more brave soldiers die but also that Armagarus had/has the Legio banner. His taunts of such were soon heard throughout Iridine as he thought to everyone of his new fortune. So a group of Rescuers was sent out. The group considated of; Despair, Mathus, Kered, Faxes, Takius, Ravenlark, Pocethary, Shara, Pondato, Cloudy, Splaticus, Aparticus, Vasuvias, Pepa, Protius, and was lead by Juggalos. These heroic men and women soon encountered an iridine soldier who had escaped. He was stunned, scared stupid...muttering incoherently. When he was comforted by all and drink a bit of tea offered by Kirre, he was able to repeat what had happened. Vespas had cut him free and helped him escape. His face paled when he realized what they would do to Vespas for punishment. The soldier was escorted back by Kirre while the rest headed towards the burnt out palisade. From this point it is only recorded by Kirre's point of view: "Well I escorted the soldier back to the Vet. Fort and waited for some time for reinforcements to come from inside...but there was a surprisingly little response other then a wave from the guards from the wall. As I waited, I started to 'think' about the progress of the rescue party. I was horrified to find out that the first rescuse party had collasped, the majority had been knocked unconicous, those who did make it past the climb, found themselves hopelessly taken prisioner by traps that had been laid out by Armagarus and his men. So of course, I immedaitly started to organize a second rescue party. It took sometime and a bit of disorganization, these were civilians after all...and I lead them, eventually, to the burnt Pallisade. Upon coming to the place I had a hard time figuring out how to climb up the rocky outcrop...but eventually I found a way. As I was calling on the others in my group to climb up, and encouraging them to do so, I attempted the second climb up, which was a good climb. but there was yet another climb up to a ledge, calling to my fellows to follow, I attempted this climb as well...well I slipped and fell. Fracturing my foot and bruising my entire body. I was knocked unconcicous. I opened my eyes and was surronded with corpses all around me, one was even piled on top, all had the 'one eye open' brand on their foreheads. I tried to make sense of all this and it only resulted in myself being incoherent. Some time later when I had recovered my wits and the pain had numbed a little, I was to find out that Armagorus had escaped...again. One by one the injured where able to climb done from the ravine. There were many, most with fractures and serious injuries, about half a dozen of us were forced to camp in our position so we could heal enough to even move at all, I emptied my red wool sack from the recruitment of legio for the others for supplies before I fell asleep again. Many had a hard done just staying conicous on the climb down. Countless people were injured by climbing alone, few that surivied the climb then went forth into the traps. I hear only one person made it back from the top and traps, apartly because he fell down the side at the last second. We lost so many many good people that day...those who did survive were taken prisoner." The most horrific part is that we only officialy lost one person...because all of the corpses were...well...you couldn't recongize any of them except for the corpse of nettle, Armagorus had tortured all of them. This also means any of the secrets held by the soldiers and the captured rescuers are now known to Armagarus...the majority of the corpses are believed to legio soldiers and officers... Yet another day did dawn on the republic...how many times more, who knows? I swore I'd never let this happen to me again by such an evil person, Ereal knows we have had to many disasters like this in the past, someone needs to take charge next time from the beginning and think! If no else will think then I guess I will...but I'm only a legio recruit, so not too many people listen to me to begin with. Someone needs to plan and think before we all take on someone more powerful than any of us...someone's got too or the Republic will soon fall. ~Kirre September 27 - Attention Mercenaries! The patrician Petitius Didyma, angered by the insolence of various bandit groups, announces the formation of a bandit hunt. Those who can kill the most scum stand to win a first prize of ten talents. For further information, meet with Didyma at the Well of Comitia. [The contest is from 8PM Eastern Saturday to 8PM Eastern Sunday. Meet at the Well at 7PM Eastern Saturday for details.] ~Rajean Docrotus, retainer of Petitius Didyma September 23 - Casino and Staves Shop Open! The opening of the eagerly anticipated Serpent Casino in the harbor came in the morning of the 4th day of the Festival of the Morning. Proprietor Rajean greeted excited guests as they lost money at the dice table, bought decks of cards and assorted rodent-inclusive meals, and explored the multiple card tables. Word is that many of the foods and drinks served are Rajean's own recipes; the way she makes rat posca taste good is a testament to her skill. That day also marked another opening--that of A'rbora's staves shop. This legless woman sells a variety of quality staves, both blunt and fanged, for relatively reasonable prices. Make sure to stop by if you feel like upgrading your kindling! ~TEC News Staff September 21 - Sciprius Banished Tonight, concerned parties gathered at the home of the young Sciprius Ralanae, accused of fomenting an attack against a fellow patrician, Curullus. Maximilian, an officer of the Legio, arrived and pronounced that the Senate had declared that Sciprius be banished pending a deeper investigation of the crime. Given the threats made against the boy by one of Curullus' houseguards, he left the city in a disguise while his numerous supporters continued to search for clues to this mystery. ~TEC News Staff and Brassy September 16 - Nest of Bandits Discovered; Bandit Leader Escapes Septus Bacetex, patrician owner of the Bacetex insula north of the Hospice, requested the aid of any mercenaries seeking loot on the eighth day of Rindak, 221 YR. He said that a group of bandits had attacked a caravan of his and stolen a good amount of merchandise, and he wanted the leader of that caravan, a man named Isdar, alive. The assorted mercenaries and lawkeepers flocked to the swamps in search of the ruins that Bacetex claimed harbored the bandits. Andrew was the first to discover the lairs, when he placed a foot wrong and landed in one of the jail cells in the bandit's lair. Soon others entered, and immediately found that the nest of vermin was riddled with traps; spikes that shot out from the floor and walls, spouts of burning acid, and other assorted goodies lined the cold corridor. Eventually, the bandit leader was found, but he took flight and was able to escape. The mercenaries spent the next few hours attempting to root out the rest of the bandits. There are still a multitude of the vermin left in there, for any who care to try killing them. Isdar, after taunting his would-be capturers, fled deeper into the swamps... one wonders when he'll be back. ~TEC News Staff September 11 - Best Wishes for All Following the world-shattering event that shook the United States today, we'd like to express our sincere hope that all members of the TEC community, their friends and family are well. Our best wishes are for all of you, and indeed the whole nation, in the next days and weeks that lie ahead. ~TEC GM and News Staff September 9 - Friends Reunite and Cripple Perseveres At the Wayfarer Inn, three old friends--Pedo, Finegus, and the blind man Ednar met to compare lives and discuss matters. It seems that the third, Ednar, had lost both eyes to a vicious infection, and had had his eyelids sewn shut in response. After a few drinks, he admitted to a desire for a home, and the population there rallied to build him a lean-to in the woods, where he said he liked to live best. It was decided he should have one built in the North Forest, so a group set out to do just that. As he was going, he stumbled and broke his jaw on a rock--a painful occurrence that caused him to bleed profusely. The healer Skye, temporarily without her healing supplies, called for assistance, and the healer Mathus and constable recruit Aericia responded quickly. He was patched up by the ever-prepared Mathus, his lean-to was built, and he and his friends settled down a quiet life in the forest. ~TEC News Staff September 5 - Navaar and Pandarus Cured by Frogs' Tongues On the 29th day of Allinius in the 221st Year of the Republic, Rysa the scholar held a meeting in the hospice to discuss two men who had lost their voices to an odd poison in Constantine's beer. Having discovered what she believed to be the cause and possibly the cure to the poison she sent the concerned Iridinians who had gathered on a quest to find this vicious plant. After a monotonous search through the swamps a group of people stumbled on several giant frogs that happened to have numbing spittle. Coincidentally, the frogs happened to be eating the plant that had been so perilously searched for. After defeating the huge frogs the people quickly delivered the plant as well as the frogs' tongue to Rysa. She was amazed by the discoveries made and quickly produced an antivenom out of the tongues. With a small amount of struggle Navaar the merchant and Pandarus the captain of the guards were quickly speaking again, mentioning that their cure tasted decisively like "sweaty arm pits". ~Ehud
August 1 (well, almost) - Tailoring Released! The long-awaited release of the tailoring skillset is here! Player characters now have the ability to repair, embellish, and make unique clothing. As of this moment, some of the subskills of tailoring are unusable, but that'll change soon. And this is really just the tip of the iceberg... you should see more crafting skillsets, a new one every month or two, for a while. From what I hear, next up on the list is herbalism, due out in the near future. If you want a more detailed explanation of tailoring, take a look at Scott's posts (aka 26, 27 & 28 on *news) or the TEC News Staff's concise, coherent explanation of tailoring. Couple of other things I should note here. First off, Scott's substantiated the rumors that the way you can advance in the basics of any skill is going to be changed. Second of all, over the next few weeks, there'll be more coded support for the patron/client system. In addition to this, there'll be some needed tweaks to the in-game economy, furthering the goal of TEC to have a completely self-reliant system of interdependency. All in all, keep looking for more great developments in Iridine. ~TEC News Staff
July 20 - Drexus wins a Domus! Congratulations to Drexus! He was the grand prize winner in tonight’s Treasure Hunt, pulling down a custom domus in Iridine proper! ~TEC GM Staff July 1 - Win a Real Gladius! We've got a treat in store for the July Role-Player of the Month! The winner will receive a real replica Roman gladius, donated by BrightBlades.com! (This is a battle-ready replica sword, so anyone under 18 will need parental consent to receive shipment of it.) The sword in all of its glory is on display at . All TEC players will also receive a 5% discount on any sword in the Bright Blades Virtual Armory throughout the month of July! ~TEC GM Staff June 26 - TEC named the "Consummate MUD!" TEC makes Computer Gaming World's 'Top-Ten Free Online Games' list and is called the "consummate MUD!" Unfortunately, the listing was a little late on the news of our move to Skotos, but we'll still take the 'consummate' label! ~TEC GM Staff June 1 "TEC Joins the Skotos Community!" Good things are in the works for The Eternal City as it joins the family of Skotos Tech games. ~TEC GM Staff
May 24 - Murder Trial ends in Conviction On the 5th day of Lucifal in the 220th year of the Republic, three men were tried for the murders of five patricians. After a rough start, Constable Cladius and Legate Granius (the accusers) ended up proving that Larson, Morgyn, and Wehttam were guilty of the murders. Justice Talius Noraetis sentenced Larson and Morgyn to die by hanging, but chose to give Wehttam a lesser sentence because of his cooperation and smaller role in the murders. Wehttam was sold to Retalq Blade, and all his possessions sold as well, the proceeds to be given to the families of the deceased. ~CornBread May 23 - Appointment Corrected On the 29th of Allinius in the 220th year of the Republic, Lucian Allende and Carnidus Harythean met with Talius Noraetis in front of the Stone Toga Inn. Lucian Allende started that Talius was the one intended to be appointed Justice, not Quintillus Granius. When Allende demanded an explanation for the mistake from Harythean, the senator suggested that the name was misread. How Talius Noraetis could be misread of as Quintillus Granius was a mystery to all present. Calling the error a petty attempt by the Calsuan faction to shift his appointments, Allende corrected the mistake and named Talius Noraetis to be the true Justice of the Harbor District and all its residents. ~Govan May 16 - Expanded Justice System Characters within the Eternal City can now participate in more fully in the legal struggles of the Iridine nation, taking up all aspects of the courtroom! Whether accused or accuser, judge or witness, criminal or executioner, players can take up roles in developing the laws of an emerging Republic. Aspects of this system include: - An option for incarcerated prisoners to request trial, as well as the ability of player constables and judges to review, deny, or act on these requests. - Improved constable interaction in managing and controlling the jailing system, including added abilities for constables to transport prisoners, access jail cells and confiscate belongings held in jail storage. - Added capabilities for players in the Justice and Legate positions for administering punishment. These include the ability to issue fines to other players, to absolve, reduce, or extend jail sentences, and to convict characters with a defined prison term. - A semi-automated courtroom system wherein players can handle trials, give statements, present evidence, summon witnesses, maintain order in the courtroom, decide on verdicts, and administer punishments - without GM supervision. - Added punishments for law-breakers, including flogging and the branding of criminals. ~Tec News staff May 15 - New Courthouse On the 10th Day of Allinius, an officer and aide called all residents of the Forum, Harbor, and Moon Bay area to assemble at the Well of Comitia for announcement, especially amongst that group, was called Legate Granius. Once the anxious crowd gathered, a officer read from a scroll. The scroll was a decree from the Senate, announcing the opening of a courthouse in the Harbor area. A constable then came and asked all interested to be escorted to the courthouse. We treked to the harbor, where we came upon the courthouse. However, civilians and non-constables were only allowed into the exterior room. From then we were all instructed to read into some news about procedure. The Court would be headed by now Justice Granius, and operated under the authority of the Constables. They would now have the ability to bring people to trials which could further punishments, bring on new ones, or impose fines. This new institution would allow for all criminals with a month or more sentence, the ability to request a trial. Some other new benefits for the residence of the area include: All people convicted of petty theft or higher, to be branded with FUR on their forehead. This will allow for all to see potential theives and be wary. In addition, Adultrists will be a letter A. This, although cruel, is a sure fire way for people to be alerted to potential thieves and adulterists. Finally, the ability to flog prone or passive targets has been learned amongest the populace. This new form of punishment can be enacted upon anyone who is prone or passive, with a bare back, as long as the inflicter is wielding a whip. With all these new changes on the people of Iridine, it is hopeful that crime will be reduced, happiness will increase, and the Republic will be a better place for all. ~Lephei Cyador May 8 - The Keepers of the Walls Early in the month of Jemros, in the 220th year of the Republic, Senator Ralanae told the citizens of Iridine of a recent change the Senate had decided upon due to the lengthy war and problems it has brought up (such as the abduction of Consul Allende). This change involved the Phoenix Guard, the 'Keepers of the Walls'. The Phoenix Guard have a long and honored tradition of defending the city of Iridine against all enemies. Over the many years their role has changed, but they had always been there to defend the city. And again their role is changing. The Phoenix Guard will no longer patrol the streets. They will guard the Curia (the Senate building), the Senators themselves, and the Well of Comitia. They also have a check points where they will search passersby for contraband. Usually only non-citizens will be searched. ~Cornbread
April 24 - Celebration of promotion On the night of the 31st of Palut the newly arrived patrician Quintillus Granius celebrated his recent appointment to legate of the Iridine constables with fellow citizens. Food drink and entertainment were provided by the gracious host. The entertainment featured several songs, stories, an exhibition by the Silver Wolves gladiator stable, and a closing dance by Tovania. Among the notable guests were Baelan Nelsor, Talius Noraetis, and a few other prominent citizens. Well the evening went well a few of the guests decided to take advantage of their hosts generosity, stealing many items out of the house. ~Annatar April 21 - Constable promotion and graduation On the morning of the 31st day of Palut, in the 220th year of the Republic, there was a meeting of constables. A lot of things were going to change. First, the Senate appointed the patrician Quintillus Granius the new Legate of the constables of Iridine. The temporary Legate, and ex-Captain of the constables, Locanda Brynne was awarded the honorary position of Captain for life. Tug was appointed sole Captain of the constables. The constable recruits were graduated into full constables, and four constable (Annatar, Lorican, Tarsos and Shara) were promoted to the rank of Sergeant, pending an okay from the new Legate. ~ Cornbread April 17 - Stay out of the pits A note to all hunters and adventure seekers in Iridine. The Pits as they are called have been a breading ground for diseased rats recently and have caused many near death experiences for hunters in the area. The spread of the plague is a major concern of most people and thus we ask for those who wish not to see the city plagued, as it was so long ago, to write or to speak to anyone with influence in the Senate. The pits were origianlly meant to be destroyed, but the task was never fully completed. It's time we finally finished the job in order to save lives. ~ Cladius Maximus
March 18 (10:59:06 AM) - Gratitude from the Consul As the day turned to twilight on the nineteenth day of Scran, the Consul Seredian Allende turned out in the forum west of the Well of Comitia to express his deepest gratitude and thanks to the brave men and women that rescued him from the clutches of the Black Wolves. While questions still remain about the reasons the Wolves kidnapped the Consul and held him right within the walls of Iridine, Allende was able to smile and claim to be in perfect health. As a token of his appreciation, he commissioned a large statue of a man and a woman, both armed to the teeth, with a pedestal underneath citing the names of all those people that aided him. Among those names stood out that of Talius Noraetis, a patrician that led the rescue for his patron Allende; Licinius Dendrius, a then-disgraced Centurion whose loyalty provided the impetus for the rescue; and the priestess Kassandra, head seer of the Sect of the Revealing Light, whose visions and charms were able to find the hiding place of Allende. Other notables that led the men include Subalterns Wallace and Thoras, the constables Annatar and Grazen, and the locksmith Drunser. Licinius received more than just his name on a plaque. As the crowd watched, Seredian Allende (who had already given a full pardon for any outstanding warrants for Licinius' arrest) reannointed him the First Centurion of the First Cohort of Legio I. The good soldier hesitated at this, mentioning he would feel uncomfortable putting the capable Legionaire Viridus, current primopilus of Legio I, out of work. After considering this for a moment, Allende agreed. 'No, Centurion, you can not be primopilus again,' Allende said, 'Licinius Alveticus Dendrius, you are now a Junior Tribune of the Legio.' The festivities concluded shortly thereafter, and Licinius went to celebrate his new position with curses and ale. All in all, a good showing by Allende, a man whose support among the people has never wavered, and with gratitude like this, never will. ~ TEC News Staff March 11 (8:04:55 PM) - Death of a Murderer It was another quiet day in Iridine when suddenly the insane shrieks of the one named Rosalene were heard throughout the streets as she attacked, murdered, and tormented innocent people all throughout the city. It started when Milicent called for assistance after being attacked by the murderer. Suddenly, Rosalene's insane thoughts sprung to work as she notified constables of each healer and patrician she killed, and each man she attacked. The pursuit led all over the city, from the docks to the Hospice and back again. Family members and friends pleaded with her throughout the ordeal but no response was heard except for laughter and madness from the killer. The chase ended when Rosalene was arrested by the constables on duty inside of the bank. Almost immediately after the assaults and murders, her execution was requested by this recruit and some of the citizens who were present at the time. The following day, the Senate decided to execute the murderer Rosalene by burning her alive at the stake in front of the Well of Comita. Her voice was last heard in a horrifying shreik that was smoothered when the smoke passed into her lungs. Her burnt corpse was on display for some time in front of the Well as a message to those who would follow a similar path. ~Cladius Maximus, Constable Recruit March 11 (7:56:42 PM) - Sickened Rats As citizens crowded into the pits for another day full of hunting and stones, poisoned rats began to flood the area from the pits themselves and from the sewer grates in the surrounding area. Kylara spoke out for help to me and when I arrived on the scene poisoned rats had already knocked two people out and injured the rest. I called for back up and many citizens came to fight the rats back to the stinking holes they came from. Sadly, they swarmed over us and knocked out and diseased as many as 7 people. After a few minutes of fighting, the rats were beaten back and the wounded were quickly given blood tonic and a good healing from the healer Melila in the Hospice. This was the third such attack of the sick rats in the course of two or so weeks and citizens are urged to be on the greatest caution while deep in the sewers and especially in the pits. If sickened rats appear, immediatly retreat, for one rat will soon be followed by many others. ~ Cladius Maximus, Constable Recruit March 9 (9:38:03 AM) - Toga Inn Brawl 11th day of Ereal- On the evening of the eleventh day of Ereal, a tragedy erupted within the Stone Toga Inn. It all started when a traveling merchant appeared, auctioning of his exotic goods. These included exquisite pieces of clothing, some very nice weapons, and room furnishings. All went smoothly, with prospective buyers jovially exchanging bids within the Inn. The merchant got to the last piece he was to auction off, a wonderful dress, when terror appeared in the form of rough sea men. The seafarers had the air of having been out at sea recently. They were dressed in bright, festive colors, and were wielding tridents and axes. Almost quicker than thought, they attacked the peacful crowd enjoying the auction, and left many reeling from their swift offensive. Many people had the good mind to run outside and ask for help. Others quickly readied their own weapons and began a counter-attack. They defenders fought bravely, and were able to knock out the gruff men. Unfortunately, many got caught up in the fight, and the lives of the seafarers were lost. Soon after the fight abated, a member of Iridine's constubalary appeared, and demanded to know who had killed the men. When none stepped up, he ordered almost the entire inn under arrest for assault, and began to arrest each and every person. Soon the Toga was all but empty, with most of the buyers tucked away in jail. The attack was quick and sudden, and left little time for rational thought. The people who thought they were defendingan attack had succeeded, but at the cost of their freedom. ~ Locklear March 3 (2:13:07 PM) - The Ferry to Monlon Early in the morning on the 4th day of Ereal, in the 220th year of the Republic, a number of citizens took up guard for a ferry running from Vetallun to Monlon. They passed by Seld, the Argosian forest and Darpen without a problem. Then, as they entered the foothills south of Monlon, they saw a horrible battle raging ahead. Men and horses lay strewn about the hills, dead. Iridine's Legio II was fighting against a number of Cineran warriors, as well as long haired, tattooed warriors wielding axes and clubs. These warriors seemed to be Parcine. An Iridine officer noticed the ferry, and asked them to transport injured warriors to Monlon. The healers aboard the ferry quickly went to work patching up the horribly injured men. They continued on towards Monlon, but at one point had to stop and unclog the river. There were so many corpses, they could not pass. At that point, a group of Cinerans attacked! The soldiers were quickly killed, and their officer slipped and fell off of the ferry. He returned with more strength. The fight lasted a bit longer, but the officer fell with the solders this time. The ferry then pulled into Lake Monlon, and the fighting was over. ~ CornBread
February 18 (12:49:35 AM) - Plague strikes On the afternoon of the Eigth day of Rindak, people all over Iridine heard the cries for help from Marren. While on a routing jurney through the sewers, Marren had been attacked by many shrivled rats, striking quickly and fading into the background. He reported that he was quickly feeling a chill, and it was only his quick thinking and his habit of carrying blood tonic that saved him from worse symptoms. Constable Annatar immediately ordered the sewers to be sealed incase there were more plague-infested rats in the sewers. While sweeping the area, he himself was infected, and made it topside just in time to faint. By this point, the mysterious rats had apparently vanished, and the Legio did a quick sweep of the sewers. Kimalee reported that all was well. Thanks to our quick-think constables and Legionarres, a serious outbreak was prevented. This occurance just leaves us with more questions, however. Where did these infested rats come from? Are there more of them? And, most importantly, what would Iridine do if we really did have a horrible outbreak? --Arutha ~ Locklear
January 31 (12:49:34 AM) - TEC Wins Topmudsites.com Competition With a whopping total of 3933 votes over fifteen days, TEC was able to win the Topmudsites.com title of #1 ranked MUD by over 600 votes. The friendly competition spanned two weeks, and each player was allowed to vote once every twelve hours. Thanks to everyone who voted for proving, once more, that TEC is the best role-playing game on the Internet. To cap off the evening, the GMs announced their big surprise: pets will be made available in game within these changes, incthe next several weeks. With allluding the introduction of patricians and player-driven plots, one can only wonder about what heights The Eternal City will soar to. ~ TEC News Staff January 21 (3:57:57 PM) - The Bloody Forest As the sun rose upon the village of Blackvine on the morning of the 31st of Jemros in the 219th Year of the Republic the Blackvine Militia was planning a forest patrol for the troopers present and the new class of recruits. The initial patrol went very slow finding only a few brigands so the decision was made to conduct a small raid on the pirate village of Grey Sands. The village was for the most part empty upon arival, the Militia found only a couple of the rogues and ruffians that usually wander the streets of the village. Captain Ton had to leave the meeting early but returned later on and headed out to Grey Sands to meet up with the rest of the Militia. Traveling through the forest he was ambushed six different times by groups of brigands. Upon arrival in Grey Sands Ton gathered the Militia to clear the path he took to Grey Sands. The search went slow for the first bit untill the spotted a group of the brigands through the trees. The Militia quickly ambushed and eliminated the three brigands then moved on. It wasn't long before the Militia fell into an ambush, one of the recruits dodged a snare and three ugly looking men attemted to attack. The Militia fought and destroyed the group of brigands but the fight caused major commotion in the forest and soon the area was swarming with brigands. The Militia fought long and hard taking down brigand after brigand. Soon almost 40 enemy corpses littered the ground without one death in the Militia group of near ten troopers and recruits. Eventually the Militia became outnumbered nearly two to one, battered and fatigued, without splints and other badly needed healing supplies for the injured personel the Militia was forced to retreat. The Militia fell back and went swiftly through the forest as the trail of brigands they left behind grew. Meanwhile Lanamor and Brutaes were looking for the Militia and were found by some wandering cut-throats and brigands. Outnumbered, they left, through Lanamor was wounded in the fray. They made their way to the HQ to meet up with the rest of the Militia. Soon both groups met outside of the HQ where a quick debrief was made, some news was given, and the loot was organized. The Militia, though they had to retreat, gave the enemy heavy losses. The Militia is keeping their promise to pay the pirate leader, Ossyrus, back for his attack on the road crew working in Blackvine earlier in the year. ~ DeltaIce January 14 (1:11:03 PM) - The Colosseum! On the 23rd day of Jemros, Carnidus Harythean once again held a grand event at the colosseum. He hosted this group of matches in honor of Sordo Calsuan's recent victory north of Monlon. It started off with four teams of two squaring off against each other. Towards the end of this match, an esecarnus was let loose in the sands. Eventually, Solar and Vanir's team barely beat out the team of Kimalee and Efe. Then three groups of two went against a group of captured Cineran Soldiers. They fought bravely, but were unable to withstand the enemies superior numbers, and fell. Annatar was the last of the group standing and put forth an amazing effort. Rather than putting the Cinerans back into their cages, Harythean instead chose to give the crowd a bloody spectacle. He loosed a number of Esecarnus on them, which ripped out one soldiers eyes, and another's throat. It didn't take long at all before the Cineran's were finished. In the next match, four teams of two fought each other, as well as two powerful bulls. The bulls threw the warriors about the ring like ragdolls. Kylara was nearly killed, and in the end the team of Dragoon and Didius won, as Dragoon was the last standing. Then another four teams of two went at it, with the mighty gladiator Doruu as a hazard, who could fight, but would not win, even if he was the last standing. The team of Xalrah and Annatar won pretty easily, but then were quickly defeated by the mighty gladiator. For the final fight, another four teams of two warriors fought, with Annatar as a hazard. Three of the teams grouped together to defeat Didius and Dragoon, but had a hard time hitting through Didius' amazing defense. He put his weapon away to get it over with, as it was boring the crowd. Then Ranan, the amazing Nelsor gladiator, came out as another hazard. Didius took his weapon back out of his scabbard, but was quickly dispatched by Ranan before he could get back into the fight. Thoras and Dahkneth were the last of the teams standing, but were knocked out by Ranan. Then Ranan walked to Didius' unconscious body and looked up to the crowd. He asked if the warrior should live or die, as he gave up momentarily in the fight. The crowd all screamed that he should live, and Didius was dragged to the healers. Carnidus Harythean called it a night, and the spectators headed home. ~ CornBread January 13 (10:18:13 AM) - Captured Cinerans Enter Iridine On the 23rd Day of Jemros in the 219th Year of the Republic, loud noises and cheers were heard coming from Vetallun Road. When one arrived at the scene, one noticed a large horse drawn caged cart with captured Cineran warriors was being pulled down the streets and escorted by numerous soldiers. When asked what it was for, an Officer stated, 'These men are to be placed in the fights tonight by order of the Consul.' With that a large cheer broke out and the constables present, including myself, had to press through the crowds and calm over excited citizens throwing fruits. The spectacle was enjoyed by the population, many lined the streets cheering and clapping all along the route and followed the cart into the arena gates. When told the cart had reached it's destination, many sighed and the crowd began to disperse. The officer thanked all who helped escort the prisoners and with a wave of his hand, the prisoners were taken into the dark corridors to await an unknown fate on the sands of the arena. ~ Cladius Maximus January 5 (11:16:56 PM) - The Battle for Monlon On the night of the 12th day of Jemros in the 219th year of the Republic, Monlon was again under attack. An army of nearly 12,000 Cineran and Aestivan soldiers marched towards the Holy City. Legio II was stretched to the limit on the front lines, and Legio I was nowhere to be seen. Citizens and soldiers alike defended the Holy City at the barricade north of Monlon, healers tended dozens of wounder soldiers from Legio II that were able to cross the fields in search of such healing. Despite the attacks and bombardments from Cineran Archers, they held off the enemy. Then a lone Iridine Soldier rode in with a message, leaping over the Aestivan lines, this is what he had to say; 'The Cinerans are in route! Calsuan marches south with three warlords in chains! Calsuan is in pursuit of the fleeing Cinerans, the head of Warlord Kars at his belt.' The battle was won! Rumor is that Sordo Calsuan slew Warlord Kars himself, and his cavalry was chasing warlord Juxta, of the Imperial Party into the mountains as morning drew near. No news has come of General Narisse, but rumor is, Calsuan plans to followup this victory by retaking the Monlon fort. ~ CornBread ^Top^ |