"The times are changing, my friend.   The ULA is all but defeated, their generals and officers fleeing or in hiding.  Those that remain fight a bravely but ultimately hopeless fight.

Yes, the times are changing, and when they do you may want to think about how you'll fit into the new way of things...  You might want to think about how those who will soon be in power will view you.

Its late in the game, but not so late as your support would go without notice...  and certainly not so late as to have it go without reward.  

Perhaps we are not 'friends' but I have a respect for you, the way you carry yourself and your abilites.  You could be an asset, if you so choose, and in that when the change comes you would find yourself in a good position to recieve it.

Your other option is to try to stand against the tide of progress and to be swept out and dragged under.  The decision is yours but I would suggest you do not wait so long to make it.   The tide of changes comes rapidly"


"I know your privy to certain... rumors.... about myself and my conduct.  Sadly, its no new thing.  Because of my strange appearace and demenor people are always inventing lies and making prejudges against my person, but I assure you that are simply that; Lies and Prejudges.   I would hope our friendship, which has become dear to me, would not be jeopardized by such meaningless whispers.    If you ever have need to speak to me on such things simply let me know and we'll do so at the venue of your choice, though I might recommend it involve some fine food and drink so we can enjoy ourselves after the topic is resolved."

"You mean to do me harm?  I see.  And you've brought friends.   A prudent call, one I have also made.   I myself have friends, though not here.   And should my friends be deprived of my company for longer then a certain interval I have set, certain unfortunite reprocussions await those you claim to care for.  Now, either strike and seal the fate of your friends, or stop wasting my time."

"Kidnapping? Extortion? Well, thats not what happened at all.  I'm not sure exactly how the child was spirited away from the safety of the village, perhaps curiosity to explore or following the flight of a butterfly.  Whatever the case may be, there he was in very dangerous terrian known not only for its fercious wildlife but also even for bandits camped in the hills.  Feeling sorry for the plight of the poor child I offered to guide her back safety, for a small, marginal fee, one I believe was completely reasonable for a guide of my prowess and expertise in the area.    Kidnapping... *chuckles* Come now my friend, did you really think I would be capable of that?  Now that this discussion is over, how about a drink?  The bar on the eastern side of the city?  I know thats your favorite."

"Indeed, the two of them are hardly inseperable my dear ally, and both have proven a thorn in our collective sides, but one I have remedied.    

I used a messager to lure his better half away on some pretext, then bribed a servant to drug his drink with my own mix of mind dulling agent and aphrodesiac.  After that, it was a simple matter of hiring a whore to bring him to a room I predetermined.  

I think, you would be proud at how it turned out.   She returned just in time to find her lover in the arms of the whore.  She then killed her lover and the whore in a jealous rage.  Unable to live with herself after killing two people, she turned her own blade on herself.  Of course, I had to arrange the services of a very expensive assassin to assure that was the course that transpired. but it was well worth the investment.

So, tonight we celebrate and tommorrow we look grim with great regreat for the passions of young lovers gone wrong."

Perface:  I haven't been on lately, so maybe I'm wrong on this, but this has been bothering me for a long time now about the server.  I expect this might piss quite a lot of people off, but if anyone knows me by reputation you should know 2 things, Firstly, I'm not afraid to tell people what I think no matter how I expect to be recieved for it, and two, I'm perfectly willing to be the bad guy as long as it benefits the server.   That being said...

I'll tell you what I miss.

I seems like now-a-days for the most people people either group up and go do a dungeon, sit around camp and chat, or (rarely) have a DM run a quest.

What I miss is player conflict.  I miss the old days when it was ok for players to kill eachother as long as it wasn't random killing.  You didn't have to ask permission ooc before you did it, you never got bitched at ooc for doing it after, and no one took it personally.

As a matter of fact, the DMs have to get involved because when the fighting was over the winning side used to ress the losers ooc and the DMs decided that removed the consquence from the conflict and outlawed it.

It was always kept within the character.  There were was one Player who had one character that was someones wife and another character that was an evil halfing that used to fight and kill or be killed by him all the time.  There was a player who played a Drow Priestess who was always trying to kill Rafferty and everyone else who also played a young elf girl who treated Rafferty like her uncle.

There was fighting, and there was killing.  We didn't call the DMs, we didn't insult people in tells.  It was Character vrs Character and it was fun.  There was conflict beyond what the DMs wanted to throw at us.  There was risk.  There was tension.  There was Drama.  All the things I find sorely lacking.  

You also have to understand that the fighting itself wasn't just the fun part.  It was the conflict leading up to it, and the further conflict as a result of it that was where the fun came in.

You simply can't have an active and thiriving community without player conflict.  When two players fight its no different then two characters in a book or play fighting.   Do you think the actor who players the hero and the actor who plays the villian trash talk eachother between scenes?  Thats the kind of madness that I've seen going on, and its saddened me.

I'm not talking about walking down the western road and having someone jump out you and kill you without a word.  What I'm talking about is when the bad guys used to show up and everyone who didn't want to be involved would get the hell out of dodge lest they become colateral damage.  

I mean when the bad guys would be bullying someone in camp and the good guys would show up and stop it.  And maybe the good guy got jumped outside camp the next day.  And so the good guys got together and hunted them down.  Which resulted in another retaliation, ect.     Its not random, but its conflict.

Thats what makes NWN great, and what makes a community great.  Back in the old days DM Cookerbaker was the lead bad guy and I on Rafferty was one of the main good guys.  Did our characters fight?  All the time.  They hated eachother.  But did cookie and I ever take it personally?  No.  It was always about the characters, not us.

Now, there is certainly something to be said about DM run quests.  A lot people like them.  Not all, but most.  And it certainly helps keep the server fresh and moving.  But its just not substute for true player driven conflict.  In expands upon that and strenghens it, but without it your trying to build a skyscrapper on a base of toothpicks.

I don't know when or why it happened.  PvP on this server now rarely happens without DM chapperoning the event, and even rarer still without people taking it out of the character and making it about the player.  

Maybe the player base has changed and people don't want character conflict anymore.  Maybe people want DMs to appear in a puff of smoke, drop something that highlights red then say 'go' and then wack away at it till it dies.   I don't think thats something you should base your server on though.

Just my opinion, and like all others, you can take it or leave it.

Zomg Kattze and Shanra! Huggles abound!

I remember back when people would roll an alt, or just remake a character and immedately transfer all their stuff, I mean like a level 2 going around in red dragon armor killing wolves and no one cared because it was the norm.

(Note that was BEFORE I became a DM and started laying the smack down)

I remember people getting stuck in hell when people would ask for a riddle then log out because he never repeated them.

I remember trying to kill those giant skeles with greatswords so I could sell them for 77g each on Rafferty (usually had to kite and crossbow or hit and run and heal and run and heal)

Me:
 Hey, God hows it goin'?
God:
You've got my full attention.  I am a Christian.
Me:
 Yeah.  Me too.  Listen....
God:
What were we talking about again?    I'm glad we agree, .   I am all ears.
Me:
 You as God... not working out.  Sorry bud but we have to make a few changes
God:
That's good information:  said I as God.   If not that, what?   There is no need to apologize.  By the way, do you mind if I ask you a personal question?
Me:
 Don't try to change the subject God.  Like I said, there are going to be a few changes, namely: Your Fired
God:
Ok I'll try not to do  it too much.   What did you mean by  it?  Where are they?
Me:
 What part of YOUR FIRED do you not understand?
God:
The best part.
Me:
 Don't give me that attatude, I let you have the job as good on good faith for a long time but now I gotta take back over.
God:
I'm not.
Me:
 Great, so I'm glad you agree.  Look, I'm sure you'll make a good diety someday but your just not ready
God:
Thanks for your support.  I don't judge people.  You make the world a happier place.   What makes you so certain?  What makes you say that I will  make a good diety someday but my just not ready.
Me:
 Well first you talk like friggin retard.  
God:
Well that's okay.  Thanks for your criticism, . And second?
Me:
 Second you let Bush get elected!  Once was bad enough, but TWICE!? TWICE!?
God:
Perhaps I'm just expressing my own concern about it.    When?  it might have been.   I can't believe it.
Me:
 I can't believe it either.  Look, you have to go.
God:
It goes without saying.  bad enough but TWICE...   I don't have to do whatever you say. I have my own free will.
Me:
 Not anymore
God:
Are you serious?
Me:
 Yes.
God:
I can't believe it.
Me:
 Its ok,.
God:
OK.  I will mention that to my botmaster, .
Me:
 Anyway, I'll be taking over as god again, and you can DM LOTN instead
God:
How do you plan to do this?
Me:
 Its already been arranged.  Make sure you don't give out any +4 or +5 crap.  AND NO IMPROVED EVASION RINGS.
God:
I think you mean "it's" or "it is" not "its".  Who said  it is?   Do you  give out any 4 or 5 crap?  No I do not do that.   Are you serious?  Tell me a story.
Me:
 God, I hate  you.
God:
I am a Christian.
Me:
 Yeah.  Yeah.  Of course you are.  Anyway, I gotta go.  You have a good day now god.
God:
I do not understand.   " I do not understand. "?  Yeah?    Awesome.  No I am not.   Bye.   I don't know if I have a  day now god.
 I have  a lot of friends on the Internet.
Me:
 .... Bye
God:
Thanks for chatting, .

Heres the problem:  Tobbacco companies lie, so these people believe the only way to protect our dear sweet children (which by the way are our most valuable resouce) is out-lie the tabacco industry.

The problem is even a 12 year knows bullshit when he sees it.  They realise the anti-drug and anti-tabacco comericals hes bombarded with are just as full of lies and misinformation as anything else.

Then, they're simply stuck between two liars, which is why kids tend to try it for themselves and find out.  Most of us survive it.

http://infopimp.com/~axel/forum/viewtopic.php?t=105

And it went for several months.  The Dark Sun performing random acts of terrorism, while those left who were still brave enough to stand against them trying to form a fragile defense.

The most outspoken, and the greatest fighter in the war against the Dark Sun was the Paladin Sorvin Deltanis.   Although Rafferty generally didn't see eye to eye with Paladins, Sorvin determination and drive for justice impressed Rafferty.  The two had become friends, with Rafferty lending whatever aid he could to the cause against the Dark Sun.

This usually didn't amount to much. Rafferty was a Cleric with no God behind him.  Still, Rafferty fought as best he could alongside Sorvin  and their battles forged together a strong bond.

----

Rafferty stirred from his slumber as heavy footfalls approached.  He groaned as he tried to sit up, knocking around several empty bottles of ale.  

"They've taken Rayne!" Sorvin shouted as he approached.  Rafferty quickly shook his head and tried to compose himself through his hung over daze.

"They're taken Rayne!" Sorvin repeated.  This time Rafferty quickly got to his feet.  He didn't have to ask who, they both knew.  Kidnapping had been a common practice of the Dark Sun.  For that reason, Sorvin's wife Rayne was staying inside the relative safety of Roid.  Rafferty didn't know how they'd gotten their hands on her, but it hardly mattered.

"Sorvin..." Rafferty began trying to calm him, but Sorvin cut him off.
"I'm going there now, I'll make them pay! They shall have justice upon them for this act."

Rafferty simply nodded.  He knew it was likely a bad idea to try to arrange for her release, but what other choice was there?  Besides, he wouldn't talk Sorvin out of this.  The best he could do was go with him support him, for whatever little support he could offer.

They knew the way to the Dark Sun stronghold.  Rafferty could remember the endless hours spent outside those walls trying to negotiate the release of hostages as the followers of Cyric teased and allowed the screams of their captives to be heard.

It was horrific when it was people he didn't know.  How would Sorvin survive this if it was his wife.  Rafferty didn't have an answer  beyond the sickening feeling in his gut.  

---

Androl paced back and forth in the ante-room of the dark sun temple, awaiting news.  The room was dark with only a few red candles illuminating the room.  But dwarven eyes were made for darkness, and even though the room as as dark as the twisted Dwarves skin, he had plenty of light.   Although not a dreugar, Androls skin had been darken by cruel rituals which granted him power and put him more fully in line with Cyric.   The darkened skin made him appear fearsome indeed, even considering that his hair was green, quite usual for a dwarf.

Just as Androl throught he could stand the wait no longer the form of Deveck, his second in command entered.   He was going to demand news but Deveck was too quick to give it before he could even ask.

"The message was delivered.  Hes coming."  The dwarf gave a cruel grin.  Like Androl, this Dwarves skin was also a blackish hue, having undergone the same dark rituals.

"Alone?" Androl glared at Deveck.

"More or less.  He has the half-breed with him." Deveck simply shrugged. They'd made Rafferty their 'guest' before, and seeing as they knew full well he was out of favor with Tyr, he wasn't much of a threat.

A grin formed under Androl's beard.  "Everything is prepared, I hope?"

"There will be no chance for escape.  One less paladin to get in the way.  When the people learn of the deeds of their 'hero' they'll not know who to trust.   Their faith in the false religions will be forever shaken."

Androl and Deveck left to compete the final perperations.  It would be a grand day indeed.

---

Rafferty felt a chill come over him as the black temple of Cyric came into view.  He was in no way looking forward to this task.  He kept pace with Sorvin whos walk hardly seems as hesitant as Rafferty's.  He couldn't back down now.   Even if it was likely a trap?  Yes.  Even if he would be killed? Yes.  After all, Rafferty was not afraid of death.   In his deepest heard he invited it.  

He felt he died that day when his mother had tried to take life at the age of 8.  Every day he had was living on borrowed time anyway.  But even so, Rafferty was here for his friend, who he knew would need him.  He wasn't sure what he could do for Sorvin, but he would certainly try.

Sorvin finally reached the doors of the compound.  The foreboding structure loomed over them, but Sorvin showed no fear as he issued a challenge.

"I am Sorvin Deltanis, come to discuss terms for the release of your prisoners! Who will grant me parley!"

Normally, a reply would come swiftly, but in this case for several seconds nothing happened.   Rafferty glanced about nerviously.  Something was not right.

The black gates openned, and out came a horde of demons.  Sorvin had already drawn his Holy Avenger, and it glowed against the gloom of the church, eager to spill the blood of the wicked.

Sorvin reacted quickly to a hellhound rushing at him.  He danced asside easily, the creature giving a cry of rage as his blade found its neck.  A jet of flame flew from its mouth moments before its head was severed.  

But there was still more. Rafferty had loosened his morning star from his belt as a wave of imps rushed at them.  Using his shield to  bash back the flying creatures , Sorvin began to cut at them.  Rafferty was barely holding his own with his morning star as a group descended on him.  His eyes were nearly clawed out by one particularly swift demon, but he ducked at the last moment.   He had managed to down one when he felt movement from behind him.

Deveck had been watching them approach, letting them pass right by them as he stood invisible.  As soon as Rafferty turned his attention to the demons he had come behind him and tried to land a blow to crush his skull.  Rafferty had sense movement and tried to dodge, but caught a glancing blow.  The strike which should have killed him crushed his shoulder and severed his collar bone.  He was vaguely aware of the pain in his shoulder as his legs gave out.  He fell on his back, with Deveck stepping over him toward Sorvin.  Rafferty turned his head toward his friend but that was all he could do.  The pain had paralyzed him, and he could not move.

Sorvin was still fighting bravely, having felled the remaining imps, but now Devack and Androl both came upon him as a balor charged from the gates.  Sorvin parried a blow from Deveck but Androl used the openning to land a crushing hit on Sorvin's arm.   His sword flew from his arm as his enemies advanced on him...

That was the last thing Rafferty saw before a curtain of blackness overtook him.

---

Androl looked down at Sorvin.

"Hes not dead.  Good.  Lets get him inside."

Deveck grined and he motioned the helpers to exit the temple, carrying a large board on which to carry the helpless paladin.

"How long do you think he can hold out?" Deveck asked with mild curiosity.

"Oh, I hope he lasts days.  It more fun that way."  Androl grinned wickedly then turned his attention to the unconcess half-elf.

"That one is still alive too.  Should I simply finish him now?  We'll have enough fun with the Paladin..."

"No."  Androl replied and grinned

"Why not? What are you sceming?" Deveck was curious, but also he wanted to know simply so he could enjoy the cruelity himself.

"The same reason his wife still lives.  He can take care of him too." Androl replied.  

"And how do you know he'll get involved?"

"You disappoint me, Deveck.  Have you forgotten the confessions we drew from his one?  Of course he'll get involved.  And he'll lose.  He'll die in agony knowing whats to come and know he can't prevent it"

Deveck thought back to the time they had tortured the half-elf.  In truth, he had no information they were interested in at the time, and he'd paid more attentions to his screams, particularly when they broke him and he begged for mercy then he did to the answers to their questions.  They simply wanted to make an example of him.  

He pondered that encounter again, until eventually he released what Androl was hinting at and laughed aloud.

"So you do remember." Androl nudged Rafferty with his boot. "Yes, leave this one.  He'll meet his end soon enough."

Deveck was impressed.  He had seen Androl enact all manner of cruelty carefully planned.  But to improvise this so well as he did...  He gleamed with pride at his High Priest as he re-entered the temple, leaving the unconscious half-elf.

Yes, it would be a grand day indeed.

My first name quite common, And thoughout school almost every class I had there was at least one other kid with it.  Because my first name was so common most people took to calling me by my last name because its fairly short and easy to spell and pronounce.  

Now, also in school whenever I would do a report on a computer other then mine and I did a spell check my last name would come up as a mispelling, and it would always suggest "sakes" as the correct spelling. (I added my last name to the filter on my own computer)

So thats basicly how I became Sakes....  Sorry, its not creative in any way.