Author	Message
GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Erie, PA	Posted: August 20, 1989      Post subject: The Frontier #1
	The Frontier #1 Welcome to a land where magic and might holds sway. A land where heroes are born and dragons are real. Where adventure and wealth abounds for those willing to risk all! Before we begin, here's a quick history lesson.... For many years there has been conflict between the Kingdom of Cynalon and the Keln Imperium. The rulers of Cynalon were just and fair; well loved by their people. The ruler of the Keln was hateful and sought conquest. Absolute power was all that mattered to him. It is said that Kelnar, Emperor of Keln, was the mightiest wizard that walked this world. But for him that was not enough. Full scale war erupted 56 years ago. Fortunately, depending on your point of view, the mighty Graystone Mountains separated the nations. One large pass connected the countries: Graystone Pass. The war continued on for nearly a decade. Finally, Victor the Fifth, King of Cynalon, could no longer withstand the dark depredations of Kelnar. He summoned the mightiest warriors of the Kingdom to his side. Aided by the supreme sorcerer of Cynalon, James the Red, the King attacked Shadowkeep, the stronghold of Kelnar himself. What happened exactly in that battle is unknown. It is said that Shadowkeep itself exploded, unable to contain the energies summoned by Kelnar to aid in the battle. There was in fact a massive explosion. Its effects were felt as far away as Alexandria, the capital of Cynalon. Needless to say, no one involved in the final battle was ever seen again. The Keln Empire rapidly collapsed after that. Many have tried to gather together the fragments of the Empire, but none have yet to succeed. It is believed that bandits now rule the roads and priests of the dark gods control the cities. Dragons and other fantastic creatures hold sway over the rest of the lands. The Kingdom of Cynalon went into a long period of rebuilding after the fall of Keln. Many lives were lost in the conflict. Much needed to be repaired and rebuilt. Many holdings were lost as the kingdom's borders shrunk as they could no longer be held, especially to the humanoid horde rampaging in from the northwest. The darkest period of rebuilding is now over. The Kingdom is becoming healthy and stable. Under the leadership of the elder King Victor the Seventh, the Kingdom is expanding once more.. It is now April 1st, 571 CT and it is a time for adventurers! The Kingdom of Cynalon is expanding into the old Keln Empire. Adventurers are needed to explore and deal with what is now in Keln. Travel to Graystone Pass, to the City of Gateway and let the adventure begin! The long winter has come to an end. Spring has arrived in the Kingdom and the adventurers' blood begins to stir. From across the Kingdom of Cynalon you have come. Whether from the small Barony of Pyris in the far north to the Dorrynn Elfholds to the south or from the lands in between. You have journeyed to the city of Crossroads. Crossroads is the city closest to Graystone Pass. From here you shall journey to Gateway. Gateway is a reclaimed city on the edge of the old Empire. It is being used as a base of operations in the exploration of Keln. The City of Crossroads is filled with activity. Other adventurers and sell-swords walk the streets. The town is abuzz with talk of last year's adventures in the Frontier. How the Band of Six sacked a major temple of Hextor and emerged with great wealth and much magic. How Strom's Heroes slew the fierce green dragon known as Jade. While taking in the city you have all met other adventurer's seeking fame and fortune. Together you travel to the town's city hall. It is here where you learn more about the Kingdom's expansion into Keln. You all gather in a large assembly hall in the city hall. Several other groups of adventures are also present. A man wearing the uniform of a Captain in the Cynalonian army speaks. "Welcome to the city of Crossroads, adventurers. I am Captain Shea. I am here today to familiarize you newcomers to what the Kingdom is attempting to accomplish in the Frontier lands." "The Kingdom is commissioning adventurers to explore the Frontier and deal with the threats encountered therein. There are many advantages to working with the Kingdom. In the city of Gateway, each adventuring band will be given lodging, free meals, free training and a discount when buying adventuring equipment." "What the Crown asks in return is as follows. Everything learned by the party is asked to be turned over to the officials of Gateway. We will pay you for the information based on its value." "You will be required to perform one mission at the Kingdom's request during this summer's campaign. The length of the campaign is the beginning of spring until the first snows of winter." "An expense account will be set in the name of the party. For signing on, the party will have 100gp per man put into their account." "If you wish to join up, come see me at my office." Captain Shea leaves the hall as the many groups of assembled adventurers begin to talk amongst themselves.

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 2 Location: Erie, PA	Posted: August 20, 1989      Post subject: GM Notes
	GM Notes: Okay, I'd like all of you to introduce yourselves to each other. It might be advantageous to pick a leader of your group and come up with a name. This is not a must, but it would be helpful. If there are any other questions you have, I'll try to get a response up for them ASAP. Also, for those of you who are spellcasters, please list the spell(s) that you have memorized.

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: "And so it begins..." Cynalon was the Kingdom founded by Victor the First, a character played by Muskateer as detailed in the Muskateer Gallery. No doubt the 'James the Red' was a descendent of Jim Sculley and his clan. Irena was the name of a girl Victor the 3rd was sweet on and became the name of Victor the 7th's Queen. The Keln Empire became the Empire of Darkness on Terra Nova. Shadowkeep became Shadowhold and so on. Yes, I recycle ideas as much as possible! I'm also quiet fond of this set up. Very easy to use, it makes sense, and can even be used more than once. It also served as the basis of a 2nd D&D game I started about year later called the Sword of Doom. A variation of it served as the beginning to the Borderlands campaign set on the western borders of Cynalon.

Mage Merlin Mage Joined: 20 Aug 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Frontier Lands

Posted: August 20, 1989      Post subject: Merlin

Mage Merlin I am a first level mage. My spells are: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Affect Normal Fires, Burning Hands, Change Self, Magic Missile, Sleep, Armor. I have: 1 dagger, 20 darts and one war dog. I have 23 gold. I have a quarterstaff (I guess). My non-weapon proficiencies are: Ancient History, Astrology, Reading and Writing, Ancient Languages, Spellcraft, Religion, Verbalism, and Navigation. I speak 6 languages.

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 2 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: Anyone recall my mention of being cursed by less than stellar first posts in a new game? That trend is alive and well. Mage Merlin didn't last long.

Cereld Priest of Heironeous Joined: 21 Aug 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Frontier Lands

Posted: August 21, 1989      Post subject: Cereld

Cereld You see before you a somewhat short (5'4") somewhat overweight (270#) male human. He has dirty brown hair with green eyes, and he has dimples at the corners of his mouth whenever he is smiling (which is most of the time). You know by your association of him that he is a cleric of Heironeous, god of valor and Justice. Even if this were not so, it would be self evident by the symbol that he boldly displays around his neck, over his chain mail. Strapped to his belt are his battle-axe and mace, and his medium shield is never far from his left hand. When he speaks, you get the feeling that he thinks you are 30 miles away as he always seems to talk so loud. "Ho HOO Ho. How do ya like that. Here we are plannin' on goin' explorin' and now they're willin' to pay us for it. On top of that they be givin' us FREE meals and training. And all they want in return is information. You can't beat a deal like that. I say we go see this Captain Shea and sign right up. But first, maybe we should make up a name for this little band. It would make us sound more professional like. Let's see.....How about.. Nah that ones no good. Well there's..... Nope I think that ones taken. Hmmmmmm....How about the Champions Chosen. That has a certain ring to it. What does everyone else think?"

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 3 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: Cereld was a good character. He lasted quite a long time before his player left Q. This was the same player who portrayed Lord Liberty in the Crusaders. Heironeous was a deity from the Grayhawk setting. Muskateer was familiar with this particular god as his Victor the 2nd adventured with a Heironeous Priestess named Wendalyne.

Stephanie Swordswoman Joined: 21 Aug 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Frontier Lands

Posted: August 21, 1989      Post subject: Stephanie

Stephanie 'Greetings Cereld and Mage Merlin. I am Stephanie, a swordswoman.' Stephanie is a fairly tall woman, almost reaching six feet. Her long black hair goes half way down her back. She wears a scarlet red blouse over her chain mail. Black boots come up to her thighs. 'I know of your god, good cleric and believe in his preaching's. There is much wisdom in what you say. The kingdoms offer is very appealing and we should take it. I also believe that we should have a spokesman in our dealings. Priests are very wise; therefore it should be a priest. I say that Cereld should speak for us.' Although, I care not for your suggested name for our band...;)

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 4 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: And here is Swordswoman Stephanie. Her outfit seems vaguely familiar, but I just can't seem to place it... In Spectrum's writing his based this character on his own sister Stephanie. It actually happened the other way around, although Stephanie Sculley was not based on this particular version of Stephanie, but the one that Jim Sculley married in the Victor the first game. Was anyone not confused by that sentence? Perhaps having so many characters with the same name wasn't such a bright idea. Stephanie lasted the entire Frontier run, rising from a somewhat simple swordswoman to the group leader. Her coming of age was interesting to watch unfold. Oh, and her outfit also serves as a version of the Scarlet Sabre costume. Always recycling.. its good for the environment!

Mage Merlin Mage Joined: 20 Aug 1989 Posts: 2 Location: Frontier Lands	Posted: August 22, 1989      Post subject: Merlin
	Mage Merlin The name. I am 5'8, 130 lbs, brown hair and blue eyes. My face is somewhat unfriendly looking because it is..well..ugly. Not very open though. So, since I tend to shy away from people, there is my description.

Finrod Fasthand Servant of Steel Joined: 21 Aug 1989 Posts: 1 Location: By Stephanie's Side

Posted: August 22, 1989      Post subject: Finrod

Finrod A tall (for his race) nondescript elf emerges from the shadows. 5'3", 110 lbs "I, too like the sound of this offer, but I am always suspicious of anything that sounds like much for little. Allow me to introduce myself" ::Bowing:: "My name is Finrod, and as my sword, bow, and lack of armor will no doubt make you suspect, I am a man of many talents...This blond hair covers a well-educated brain, and these steely blue eyes have seen much conflict. I am also well versed in the ways of the back alleys and other like locales. :)" "My non weapons proficiencies include Spellcraft, disguise, appraising, Ancient history, dancing, heraldry, Riding, playing the recorder, and the setting of snares. I am sure my multifarious talents will contribute full-fold to the success of the party, for which I suggest the name of: 'Inquisitors', and second the nomination of our noble cleric as Party Leader, as the so-lovely lady has suggested." :)

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 5 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: Ah, Finrod. Always the charmer. He was in the game for quite a long time and as those who read the Stephanie exhibit will recall, Finrod became Stephanie's eventual husband. Watching their romance unfold is another thing to keep your eye on.

Dalliance Elfin Sorceress Joined: 22 Aug 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Frontier Lands

Posted: August 22, 1989      Post subject: Dalliance

Dalliance Rising from her seat, the young elf in pale gray silk shirt and trousers walks slowly towards the adventurers talking across the Hall. Beneath her black, hooded cloak, the gleam of elfin chain mail flashes in the subdued lighting of the room, and the hilt of a longsword of similar make protrudes over her left shoulder. A dagger can be seen sheathed in one of her soft black leather boots. She is tall for an elf maiden, over 4 1/2', and the grace with which she moves hints that her slim, boyish appearance hides more feminine charms. As she nears, the contrast between her jet-black hair and eyes with her fair, almost white skin becomes strikingly apparent. A thin band of silver encircles her throat. "Hail, fellow seekers," she says in soft, accented tones. "I am Dalliance, a Fighter and Mage from Dorrynn Elfhold. I have ridden long and far to adventure in the Frontier Lands with you, and to share in the wealth and knowledge to be found here. My homeland, where I was trained by my parents in their arts, has grown too peaceful to afford such dangers and rewards as these wild lands offer. May we all prosper from this fellowship of companions." Barely pausing to brush a stray lock of her shoulder-length hair from her face, she continues. "If the noble Cereld wishes, I too feel he would make a good leader. As to a name, I fear I find 'Chosen' a bit presumptuous, but will stand by the group's choice. After all, it is deeds, not names, that will mark our place in history." She then greets each of the party, shaking hands in the fashion of Men. My current spells are: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Burning Hands, Magic Missile, Sleep, Light, Friends, and Change Self. My horse Windrhyme (Rhymer) is tied outside the Hall. Oh, yes. Call me "Dal" if you wish.

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 6 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: Dalliance was a nice character. Too bad she didn't stay around longer.

Finrod Fasthand Servant of Steel Joined: 21 Aug 1989 Posts: 2 Location: By Stephanie's Side	Posted: August 22, 1989      Post subject: Finrod
	Finrod Mail from Finrod I am pleased to meet so lovely and obviously capable a woman as is Stephanie. I hope we can share the joy of many kills.

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 7 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: The above was a private E-mail Finrod sent Stephanie. It's the first post and he's already trying to her out of her armor. ;D

Flint Fireforge Dwarven Wariror Joined: 23 Aug 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Rockhome

Posted: August 23, 1989      Post subject: Flint

Flint You see an absurd sight approaching the group. It is a burly dwarf wearing a suit of golden plate mail with a long bow and two-handed sword as well as a huge backpack strapped to his back. On his belt you see numerous climbing perihelia. "Greetings all, I am a 4'6" tall Dwarf Fighter skilled in mountaineering, armor smithing, weponsmithing, mining, and rope use. My armor is nicknamed "golden savior" and my silver plated sword is named "silver slayer" these weapons were forged by me. I hope my skills in mountaineering and rope use can be of great benefit to the party's journeys".

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 8 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: As I recall Flint didn't last very long. Of course, that was fairly normal on Q where players came and went like the wind.

Cereld Priest of Heironeous Joined: 21 Aug 1989 Posts: 2 Location: Frontier Lands	Posted: August 23, 1989      Post subject: Cereld
	Cereld "I am honored that you would choose me to lead this company. I will try to live up to your expectations. Dal you and Stephanie are right. The Champions Chosen is too stuffy. I like Finrod's suggestion. The Inquisitors sounds better and is more appropriate to what we do. The only thing is it too seems a little to long. How about The Seekers?"

Finrod Fasthand Servant of Steel Joined: 21 Aug 1989 Posts: 3 Location: By Stephanie's Side	Posted: August 22, 1989      Post subject: Finrod
	Finrod Not too bad... OK. Seekers it is! But now we need another member, so we can be the Seven Seekers. :) So...without further ado, let's be at it. Merlin and Dal, we need to get together and work out who's carrying what, Ok? Glad we have such a well-Balanced crew.

Validar Noble Warrior Joined: 23 Aug 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Frontier Lands

Posted: August 23, 1989      Post subject: Validar

Validar A man in a shiny suit of chain mail walks up to the group, large shield in one hand and a great helm under his arm. "Greetings. My name is Validar, son of Relon, the Baron of Pyris. I wish to offer the service of my good right arm in exchange for your company and the glory and honor of battle." Validar stands just over six feet tall and is in prime physical condition. A mustache adorns his handsome features. A gem-studded pommel juts out from the scabbard at his side and his large shield is richly adorned in the coat of arms of the Barony of Pyris. An ebony griffon is boldly displayed on a field of interlocking silver and blue. His surcoat bears the same symbol. "The Baron's father was active in the glorious battles with Keln, and I wish to follow in my family's footsteps. There may be no more open war, but adventure aplenty awaits." Validar's ancestors were paramount in the final battle against Keln. His grandfather, who he is named for, and his great uncle Valerian were both lost with several other great heroes in the final assault on Keln. Marble statues in the palace courtyard back in Pyris commemmorate their honor and glory. "I will abide by whomever is your chosen leader, provided they are able to command this honor. As far as a name is concerned, I must agree with the fair Dalliance. It is the doings of a man, or woman, by which they are judged. Whatever the name, it will be regarded with honor if we are worthy of such. My sword arm is aching for battle and glory. I suggest we organize ourselves as soon as possible and depart."

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 9 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: Validar was Muskateer. He wasn't involved in The Frontier beyond being a player in the game. Validar became a primary character in Spectrum's stories here on the website, along with Stephanie and Finrod.

Finrod Fasthand Servant of Steel Joined: 21 Aug 1989 Posts: 4 Location: By Stephanie's Side	Posted: August 23, 1989      Post subject: Finrod
	Finrod As if conjured! So, it is the Seven Seekers! :)

Flint Fireforge Dwarven Wariror Joined: 23 Aug 1989 Posts: 2 Location: Rockhome	Posted: August 24, 1989      Post subject: Flint
	Flint Minor adjustment to my arms I am using a longsword (silver Plated) and I also have a silver plated shield "Rising sun" my bow is a Short bow as well. As for the name I kind of like "the seven seekers"

Dalliance Elfin Sorceress Joined: 22 Aug 1989 Posts: 2 Location: Frontier Lands

Posted: August 24, 1989      Post subject: Dalliance

Dalliance "'Seekers' is fine with me, also. As to 'Seven', while certainly becoming to the tongue, it may be somewhat erroneous if we gain more members. But not to quibble." Turning to Cereld, I say, "I am going to see to Rhymer's feed and water. What are your thoughts on our next order of business? Should we contact Captain Shea and accept his offer? I, for one, find it most fair and am also eager to see action." With that, I leave to tend my mount.

Finrod Fasthand Servant of Steel Joined: 21 Aug 1989 Posts: 5 Location: By Stephanie's Side	Posted: August 26, 1989      Post subject: Finrod
	Finrod Eight is enough... Nine would be better. :) Always strength in numbers. I feel we should accept this offer and set out for gateway post haste. Cereld, when do you want us to meet back here with the rest of our gear to move out? I still need to get with the other spell-casters to work out spells. ::Following Dalliance out to do that very thing::

Cereld Priest of Heironeous Joined: 21 Aug 1989 Posts: 3 Location: Frontier Lands

Posted: August 26, 1989      Post subject: Cereld

Cereld "The Seven Seekers it is. Ok why doesn't everyone go and get what they are going to need when we go exploring. I suggest that you go together and pool your resources so that the group does not end up with situations like having 4 lanterns and no oil. I am going to talk to Captain Shea and find out more about the deal, and if it is good, I'll sign us up. Miss Stephanie, would you join me? A lovely face sometimes has the effect of swaying a deal in your favor if needed. Also Val, can I call you Val? Your presence is requested also as being the son of a baron; you should have had some experience in things such as this. Let's say everyone be back here in 5 hours. We'll talk about what we are going to do, and unless there is an emergency that we have to take care of, we'll leave first thing in the morning." With that Cereld, and whoever is following him, will go to Captain Shea's office. He will knock on the door, and when allowed in will greet the Captain, "Greetings Captain Shea. I am the spokesman for the Seven Seekers. (I will then introduce any who have come with me). We are here to discuss that deal you mentioned out there. Let me see if I have it straight. We go exploring, do whatever we want, just tell you what happened for which you pay us for the information and we get free meals and training. Oh yes and once a month we have to do some mission for the king. Am I correct?" If he says yes then, "I think we may be of some service to you. Where do I sign?" After all the legalities are out of the way, Cereld will ask, "Do you have anything for us to do now? If not we are going on an exploratory mission leaving in the morning." After the meeting, I will go to the store and pick up some food for the trip.

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 10 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: Is it my imagination or do the ladies get treated a little better than the guys in these games? Steph was no great beauty (12 CHR) but you sure wouldn't know it! A point that would come to annoy Validar very much in the next post.

Arafel Silverhilt Woods Woman Joined: 27 Aug 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Frontier Lands

Posted: August 27, 1989      Post subject: Arafel

Arafel ::steps up into view of group:: Well if ye be wantin a ninth member I'd be happy ta join. ::smiles:: Before you stands a female about 5'9" in height. About 120 or so in weight. She has auburn hair and emerald green eyes. Her armor is chain and a bit dirty looking. On her back is strapped 2 scimitars and strapped to her belt on the right side is a dagger. She also carries a longbow and has a bulging backpack (amazing what you can cram into these things). Pardon me manners...the name's Arafel Silverhilt and I'm pleased ta meet ye all.

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 11 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: Kityana was an interesting young lady. She and Muskateer exchanged a few phone calls as well. She also ran a few Champions characters before doing the Q fade out. I seem to recall that Validar had something of a crush on Arafel, but I might be mistaken. He'll have to clarify that point.

TiCat Swordsman Joined: 27 Aug 1989 Posts: 1 Location: Cynalon

Posted: August 27, 1989      Post subject: Ti-Cat

Ti-Cat A man in leather armor stands before you. He carries a quarterstaff in his hand. You see a dagger at his belt and, on his back, a longsword and longbow with two dozen arrows. He is just short of six feet tall and well built, with wild, dirty blond hair. He looks to be about 20 years old. He is handsome, in a nondescript way. Your attention may be drawn to two things about him: as a hood, he wears the skin of some sort of small striped wildcat; and his left eye is light blue, his right green. He smiles diffidently and tugs at his forelock, bowing his head to each of the women in the party in turn. "Pardon," he says, "but I have heard that you were going adventuring. If I be not late, and if you have room, I would like to join you. I am new to this, but I'm a fine fletcher, and I can fight. I hope you'll have me." "People call me TiCat, and my claws and fangs are yours, if you'll have me." As if surprised by his own long-windedness, TiCat halts, smiling a bit uncertainly.

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 12 Location: Erie, PA

Present Day Comments: Ti Cat was an interesting character. Not a boastful or boisterous person, but a nice, quiet do what was needed kind of character.

GM Mad Game Master Joined: 01 Jan 1989 Posts: 3 Location: Erie, PA	Posted: August 28, 1989      Post subject: GM Notes
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