Year 1: Forum Anniversary

[Badstench]

Starting soon, multiple posts will apear in this thread to celebrate the first birthday of this forum. The date to look for is June 27-29.

The thread will be closed to outside comments until all posts are presented.

To all members of this forum, a previous acknowledgement goes out to thank you for your participation that has helped make this forum the fun place it has become.

I'm sure you will find lots of content to entertain over the next two weeks, starting with...

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Sryth Quiz Revisited

The first Sryth Quiz (there were four altogether) appeared in the old forum in April of 2007. There have been many new members to the forum since then, some of whom are still posting and who have no knowledge of the past quizzes.

For those who are interested, this anniversary of the new forum greets the return of the best questions from all four quizzes. There are no prizes. You’ll simply have the satisfaction (or not) of knowing you have a good memory (or not). The answers are given at the end of this anniversary thread.

SRYTH QUIZ: Anniversary Edition

Q1) Which Tysian city has affiliation with these three men: Jorwek, Frethor and Lyraska
a) Talinus
b) Trithik
c) Tryndmoor
d) Graldok

Q2) Which of the following locations would best describe where the Ring of Vitality could be found?
a) In a cave on a craggy cliff face
b) In a hut on a mossy hillside
c) In a chest in a gloomy dungeon
d) On the finger of a dead adventurer

Q3) How many imps had to be slain to acquire all the keys that opened the final door in Daggerspire Tower?
a) None
b) 1
c) 2
d) 3

Q4) From the four choices, correctly finish the following sentence: An envoy from the mountain village of Frostlyne has made a long and dangerous journey to Trithik in search of someone willing to...
a) Help against the menacing of a frost demon
b) Help against the rising of a shadow dragon
c) Help against the ravages of a monster called the “Rine Beast”
d) Help against the threats of extortion from a giant

Q5) Which location best describes where the “Chamber of Rot” could be entered?
a) In the cellars beneath Lyrelock Monastery
b) In the sewers beneath Tryndmoor
c) In a tomb beneath Stoneback Hill
d) In a cave near Kyul-Thanor

Q6) Galarud and Jagada are two names you will have encountered during your adventures. Which race of beings did they belong to?
a) Giant
b) Troll
c) Ogre
d) Goblin

Q7) Name the person who can be attributed to this quote: “Wish I had another prize to give you,” he laughs. “I must remember to take down that sign one of these days.”
a) Talwarden
b) Piripor
c) Solundor
d) Thane Mazembak

Q8) During your excursions into any one of the explorable areas, you might encounter an emaciated figure wearing a red vest. Where does this encounter take place?
a) The Blustery Wood
b) The Jagged Hills
c) Bentlimb Wood
d) Tarkhald Crypt

Q9) “A ghastly howl rings out over the din of battle.” Where will you read this precise passage?
a) In the company of the Troll Hunter
b) In a clearing in the Blustery Wood
c) On the battlefield against Runeskin
d) At the ruins of Tarramyre

Q10) To the best of your knowledge, which of the following items is not magical by nature?
a) Trielra’s Staff
b) Tarungar’s axe
c) Demonscourge
d) Tzal-Toalth

Q11) What is “The Thane’s Pike?”
a) A weapon of awesome power belonging to Thane Mazembak
b) A fish, stuffed and mounted in Thane Pyrond’s Keep at Trithik?
c) The name of a road leading to an influential city
d) The name given by Thane Marindol to his squire

Q12) Which of the following names does not equate to one of Runeskin’s minions?
a) Rotbane
b) Grubmaw
c) Fearspit
d) Badstench


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[Badstench]

BEST BITS

Not long after the new forum started, a thread appeared in the ‘General Chat’ board that plagiarised interesting news items from around the world. The first of these delved into an archaeological find uncovered in the grounds of Stirling Castle in England, dealing with the life and death of one Robert Morley, a 14th century knight.

Reading this article found me wondering how we, as players of fantasy adventurers in the world of Sryth, envisage life in a medieval society. Truth is, we can’t. We have vague notions offered by archaeological finds and stylised television programs, but historical accuracy can only truly be known by being there.

Having said that, the following is the next best thing, and I’d like you to imagine your Sryth character in the place of Robert Morley. I understand that we are simply playing a fantasy game, but I found the ‘real’ comparison very interesting.

Slice of life... insight into a knight's brutal existence

A 620-year-old skeleton discovered under the floor of Stirling Castle has shed new light on the violent life of a medieval knight.

Archaeologists believe that bones found in an ancient chapel on the site are those of an English knight named Robert Morley who died in a tournament there in 1388.

Radio carbon dating has confirmed that the skeleton is from that period, and detailed analysis suggests that he was in his mid-20's, was heavily muscled and had suffered several serious wounds in earlier contests.

He appears to have survived for some time with a large arrowhead lodged in his chest, while the re-growth of bone around a dent in the front of his skull indicates that he had also recovered from a severe blow from an axe.

He eventually died when he was struck by a sword that sliced through his nose and jaw. His reconstructed skull also indicates that he was lying on the ground when the fatal blow was delivered.

The knight was laid to rest under the stone-flagged floor of a chapel near the castle's royal apartments and his skeleton was excavated along with 11 others in 1997.

However, it was only recently examined following advances in laser scanning techniques that not only revealed the nature of three wounds, but also showed that the knight had lost teeth, probably from another blow or from falling from his horse.

Gordon Ewart, of Kirkdale Archaeology, said, "We believe he was aged between 18 and 26 when he died. He was about 5ft 7in tall and was well built, but he clearly had a hard life. These were troubled times."

Source - Telegraph group Ltd

Recently, another article in a similar vein appeared that I neglected to make a copy of. This article mentioned the discovery of a long-buried gladiator’s graveyard from Roman times, again, in Britain. Autopsies performed on the remains discovered the startling fact that nearly all the gladiators had one arm longer than the other, and it was speculated that the longer arm was the one in which the gladiator habitually wielded his weapon.

I mused that the law of the time was harsh, indeed, which made me further wonder if that’s how the saying, “The long arm of the Law” came about :D

[Badstench]

It’s been a few months since the Roving Reporter last took his pen to the inns, taverns, doss-houses and back rooms where adventurers gather, but when he heard about the anniversary of the Sryth forum, he went in search of the names previously interviewed under the spotlight. He found a few of them, too, and asked each three questions as an update to past interrogations.

These mini-interviews will be splattered through this anniversary thread over the next couple of weeks, but it seemed only appropriate that our first target be the guy who started it all...

Players in the Spotlight: 3 tough questions

Havoc
Q1) What was behind the decision to create a new forum?
The primary Administrator of the old forum had left quite a while ago. In his absence, we were unable to properly maintain the forum, and it was impossible to add new mods/admins. Besides, it was getting a bit stale.

Q2) Has the new forum met your expectations?
Very much

Q3) It has become obvious that your presence in the game has lessened. Is real life treating you well? And can we expect to see you visit on the odd occasion in the future?
Life's going well, got engaged and getting married by the end of the year. Work's going well too, just not getting much time for forumming.

Wow! I’m sure everyone will join me in congratulations of your engagement.

[Badstench]

Okay... so it’s nice that we have a thread where we can pat ourselves on the back, congratulate each other magnanimously and all have a jolly good celebration for no other reason than we managed to “stick it out” for one year, but how does that help us in real life, eh? And more importantly, how does it help our characters in the game world, eh?

Well, I’m going to address that subject by offering some practical advice that can be applied to both worlds.

10 Hints & Tips for Surviving the Wilds of Tysa

1) Don’t go to the wilds of Tysa
2) But if you absolutely must go, pack plenty of clean underwear. You’re gonna need it!
3) Wear your most resilient armour and take the weapon with which you are most proficient. Back these up with a reliable pair of running shoes.
4) It would also be handy if you go with a party of adventurers – the more the merrier.
5) And a full squad of soldiers
6) A battalion would be even better.
7) Never wander away on your own for a piss... haven’t you been paying attention to all those movies?
8) When someone yells, “Duck!”, do not look up to see what you’re ducking from. Just fall down, for god’s sake!
9) Do not eat the wildlife... and do not let the wildlife eat you
10) Don’t suddenly remember that you didn’t write a will. It’s too late now!

Stay tuned for more handy hints & tips, coming soon to a computer screen near you.

[Badstench]

Players in the Spotlight: 3 Tough Questions

Thingirl
Q1) Since you first started playing, your main character, Alanne, has been tearing up the multiplayer scenarios of late. Does it give you a sense of achievement to know Alanne is now a “power-character”?
Yes, very much so. It offsets all her deaths. *laughs*

Q2) You have told us that you are home-schooled. How real is the temptation to play Sryth when you shouldn’t be?
Well, we had to move my main work area to a room with no computers or internet... Actually, the forum is a bigger draw-in for me than the actual game.

Q3)) As a Christian, do you have any qualms concerning content in the game?
Not at all. Sryth is very clean. And plus, it’s a fantasy game, as in, not real. Also, I can draw loose connections between the All-Father and God.

Q13) Which of the magic disciplines will have you reading this description?... "A thousand whispers suddenly fill your head... a) Shadowmagic. b) Illusion. c) Divination. d) Conjuration
When the eye becomes use to seeing patterns, the brain doesn't always connect that something is different.

[Badstench]

Hot on the heels of surviving the wilds of Tysa, I am pleased to bring you the next instalment of hints & tips that could make all the difference to how you view the world, ie; from a living or deceased view-point.

10 Hints & Tips for Surviving the Multiplayer Scenarios

1) Before going anywhere, check that your backpack is crammed to the top with runes of life.
2) Consider taking the cat as well if you think he might share a few of his nine lives with you.
3) Find a benevolent god and pray often.
4) Take precautions: get immunized against rabies.
5) Buy a holy symbol
6) A fire extinguisher,
7) and a vegetable peeler.
8) And don’t forget to write a will
9) On the way to whatever scenario you’re headed for, stop at all the taverns and inns along the road for food and drink. You never know if one of those meals might be your last.
10) And if you’re lucky, the fight might be over by the time you get there.
Q14) How could you best describe Ildraria? a) Run Like Hell! b) Hexapedal c) Like, really horrible, man. Like, oo-er! d) Hexapodous


Stay tuned for more handy hints & tips, coming soon to a computer screen near you.

[Badstench]

BEST BITS

Funny Stuff From the Giggle Bag

The following is an actual question given in a University of Washington chemistry mid-term paper.

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HELL EXPLAINED

Question: Is Hell exothermic (gives off heat) or endothermic (absorbs heat)?

Most of the students wrote proof of their beliefs using various interpretations of Boyle’s Law, which states that gas cools as it expands and heats when compressed.

However, the answer offered by one student was so profound that the professor felt obligated to share it with colleagues.

Answer:

First, we need to know how the mass of Hell is changing over time. By this, we need to know the rate at which souls are moving into Hell as opposed to the rate at which they are leaving.

I think we can safely assume that, once a soul moves into Hell, it will never leave. Therefore, no souls are leaving!

As for how many souls are entering Hell, let’s look at the different religions that exist in the world today: Most of these religions state that, if you are not a member of their religion, you will go to Hell. Since there is more than one religion and people do not usually belong to more than one religion, we can project that all souls will eventually go to Hell!

With this in mind, and considering current birth and death rates, we can expect the number of souls in Hell to increase exponentially.

Now… we look at the rate of change of the volume of space in Hell, because Boyle’s Law states that, in order for the temperature and pressure in Hell to stay the same, the volume of Hell has to expand proportionately as more souls are added to the population.

This gives two possibilities:

1) If Hell is expanding at a slower rate than the rate at which souls are entering, then the temperature and pressure will increase until all Hell breaks loose!

2) If Hell is expanding faster than the number of souls entering, then the temperature and pressure will drop until Hell freezes over!

So, which is it?

If we accept the postulate offered by my friend, Teresa, during my freshman year that, “It will be a cold day in Hell before I sleep with you”, and take into account that I slept with her last night, then number 2) must be true. To this end, I am sure that Hell is exothermic and has already frozen over.

The corollary of this theory is that, since Hell has frozen over, it is probably not accepting any more souls and is, therefore, extinct. This means that all subsequent souls are going to Heaven. In turn, this proves the existence of a divine being, which explains why, last night, Teresa kept shouting, “Oh, my God!”

*****************

The student who submitted this answer received an A+

[Badstench]

Players in the Spotlight: 3 Tough Questions

Scout1idf
Q1) In a past question, it was asked of you what you thought about the new forum as opposed to the old. You answer was, and I quote, “In the beginning, I liked the old forum better than the new. I think that was a comfort issue. Now that I've had time to see how things work I like some of the features of the new forum that we didn't have on the old.”

After one year of operation, would you change your statement at all?
There have been some "bumps" in the road over the last year, but I like the new forums "bells and whistles" a lot. I still take the occasional trip to the old forum to read the old posts and information stored there, but I find my trips are becoming farther apart than they use to be.

Q2) You have shared with forum members that you are self-learning how to build and present a website. Could a forum member approach you for help in creating their own website... as a remunerative service? In other words, is your expertise for hire?
I would eventually like to build sites for others as a 'side job'. If a forum member would like my help building their own web site, I wouldn't be opposed, as long as they remember that I am still just learning. To answer the last part of your question, depending on my "services", payment may be discussed.

Q3) As a game, do you truly think Sryth has a shelf life for you in particular?
I think (and hope) Sryth has a long future ahead of it. My game playing has become reduced quite a bit from what it used to be, but I can't stay away.

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And while we're on the subject of interviews conducted "in the spotlight", it behooves me to explain that there have been three series of such questions; not only with Players, but with game non-player characters as well. However, my favourite interview was conducted with none other than the GM himself, and the next post is a re-creation of that interview.

Read and enjoy...

[Badstench]

BEST BITS

GM in the Spotlight: 20 Questions

Good evening everyone.

We know you've been waiting for this moment, so no mucking around...

...Except to invite everyone to participate in lively discussions after the interview involving any matter you might hear tabled by...

THE GAMEMASTER!

Q1) Can you tell everyone, please; what was the exact date that Sryth went live on the worldwide web?
Sryth went live in a very limited form late in 2002, but was officially live sometime in June of 2003.

Q2) What content was available to play when the game first went live?
The very first content available in late 2002 was a small adventure that ended up with characters arriving at a small town on the western frontier of Tysa. When the game went officially live in 2003, the first content was the Village of Hawklor and the Caves of Westwold adventure.

Q3) Did you do any marketing for the game to attract participants within the first six months of it being presented?
I don’t believe there was any marketing done for the game that early. Primarily, it grew by word of mouth. Now that I think of it, though, I’m not sure how people found out about it at the start, unless it was via search engines.

Q4) What was your expectation for Player numbers after one year, and was this realized?
I wanted to see if the game would attract ten thousand registered players. I didn’t seriously think it would reach that number for a couple of years, but there were more than a thousand registered accounts within the first year, which was surprising to me.

Q5) Over the years, have you ever thought the endeavour of presenting the game was too much and you might stop doing it?
Before I began working on Sryth as a full time project, it was difficult balancing work, family and the game. I realized how much I enjoyed creating the game, though, and began to think how I could go about it as a full time effort.

Q6) Did you always plan to make a business out of the game?
I had originally set out to see if I could build an online, text-based role-playing game similar to the types of games I enjoyed playing. I realized fairly early on that, if I didn’t create a business out of Sryth, it would likely never grow beyond a small game.

Q7) The game has been a full-time endeavour for approximately two years. Was it a scary proposition to quit your previous job and the security of a regular pay check for the uncertainty of Sryth as a viable means to survive financially?
The short answer is, “Yes”. My wife (and No.1 co-conspirator) was fully supportive of it, which made the decision much easier than it might otherwise have been – but it was still a bit scary!

Q8) If any Players have aspirations of starting their own game with the idea of making “millions”, what is the first piece of advice you would give them?
The only advice I would ever give to anyone creating a game is that it’s always helpful to imagine the types of things you would like to see in a game if you were playing it. If you have fun creating it, and it’s the type of game you’d enjoy playing yourself, then chances are there are others who will also like it – at least, that’s the theory I subscribed to!

Q9) Various aspects of the game world (history, geography, politics, etc) are very detailed. This suggests that Sryth existed for much longer than when the game first appeared online. How long have you actually been living with Sryth in your head?
Sryth has actually been around in one form or another since about 1988. Yes, I said 1988! It began as a setting for a story I was writing, and later became the setting for a Dungeons & Dragons campaign I ran with friends.

Q10) Within the game mechanics and rules, there are obvious hints that you’ve been involved with role-playing games in the past. What games were they?
The only table-top RPG I played was Dungeons & Dragons, though I always enjoyed the “choose-your-own-adventure” style role-playing books. I played a few computer games (back in the days of the Commodore Amiga) and enjoyed titles like the “Bard’s Tale” series.

Q11) The story lines for the adventures in Sryth are very well written. Are you the sole writer of all the content presented?
Thank you! Yes, I am the only writer, although I get lots of great ideas from those I will call my co-conspirators.

Q12) Without naming names, do you run a character in the main game alongside other player characters?
I do have a character in the game, but he’s used mostly for testing and doesn’t appear on any of the top ranking lists.

Q13) Part of your job entails answering complaints/ queries/ suggestions/ bug reports, etc from Players. On average, how many times would you receive such correspondence over a week?
I probably receive 200+ emails/ reports per week. It can take quite a long time to go through them, so I usually try to do it in batches. With a large volume, it’s easy for things to get lost, mishandled, overlooked, etc, so if you’ve ever sent something that required a response and didn’t receive one, please send it again.

Q14) A lot of feedback/ complaints/ queries/ suggestions, etc concerning the game are aired between the Players via the forum. Do you scan the various boards and threads of the forum to learn how your customers are responding to the game?
I don’t visit the forum that often, but I would like to become more involved with it as time permits. I can’t begin to tell you how many Players have told me that the forums and wiki were invaluable to them as they got started playing.

Q15) Do you envisage the game of Sryth existing, say, five years from now?
Yes! I hope to be able to keep Sryth going for a long while to come. I’m sure the game will continue to evolve going forward. Many of Sryth’s additions and features have been suggested by Players and have really helped to round out the game.

Q16) Do you ever find it difficult coming up with the material to continually satisfy your customers?
Coming up with content and storylines has never been difficult, though turning them into adventures or series of adventures can be tricky. It always takes longer than I expect to turn an idea into a working, living part of the game.

Q17) And, without giving too much away, do you have a long-term plan in mind for the development of the game, whether by content, mechanics, presentation, etc?
I would like to simplify/ streamline both the presentation and the mechanics of the game going forward. This will likely entail a series of small changes over time rather than a large number of changes all at once. All of the newer game content uses the newer set of game mechanics, while some of the older adventures use some mechanics that are no longer in use.

Q18) We know you are creative and possess a great imagination, but did you need to learn anything concerning the business side of the operation before presenting the game online?
That aspect of it has been a “learn-as-you-go” process. I was fairly proficient with the technology side of things, but I’ve learned more than I really wanted to since the whole process began!

Q19) Hypothetically, if some big corporation knocked on your door and wanted to buy all the rights to the game for a seven figure sum, could we expect to be sending future emails to that corporation instead of you?
No! Emails would still come to the gamemaster, but the address might be different… say, gamemaster@beach.on.hawaii.com :)

Q20) And lastly, looking at the game as both a business and something you love doing, and weighing everything up against the pressures and responsibilities of everyday real life, would you say that you are satisfied with the way things have gone and are going?
I couldn’t be happier with how Sryth has gone thus far, and I have big plans and high hopes for the future. The greatest part of this for me is being able to create the game for such dedicated and supportive Players. The feedback, suggestions, complaints (there have been a few!) and praise I’ve received have shown me that Players care about their characters and the game. Having such thoughtful and dedicated Players has made it all worthwhile!

************************************************** *******

[Badstench]

10 Hints & Tips for Surviving the Adventurers Collective

1) What happens behind the green door stays behind the green door
2) Beware a person by the name of Varsil Demonsoul; he’s not actually evil, but he’s a rogue of the trickiest sort. If you have two eyes, keep one on him and one on your money pouch.
3) The same can be said of an adventurer named Scout, especially if you choose to take your sweetheart to the Adventurers Collective. He’s a lady’s man and known for being far too good looking!
4) The same can be said of Finkle, who operates the steam-room/ sauna. She’s a dwarf with an surly disposition, and hates “big folk”.
5) And while we’re at warnings away from certain persons, avoid Gorgon Ram-Zee, the chef who operates Smells Bitchen. His grumpiness knows no bounds.
6) Never enquire of long-time patrons when the familiar keeper is likely to open for business. Such a question is akin to a bunch of screaming kids asking of their parents repeatedly while on a long distance journey, “Are we there yet?” The result of such a question usually entails the start of another brawl.
7) If you are in the habit of imbibing too many mugs of hammertongue than is good for you, DO NOT attempt to climb any ladders you might come across.
8) If anyone asks you to play a game of scrabble with them, first gauge the mood of the room. Never play the words, “hexapedal” or “spletch”.
9) If you find yourself ready to leave the Adventurers Collective and the time is approaching dawn, exit the green door with caution. This is the time when the merchants of Blade Square are hurrying their carts and horses back to the stables outside the city walls. Many are the unwary revellers who have found themselves a statistic of accidental road carnage.
10) And finally, if you don’t have a thick skin, find another bar!

Some of the above hints are self explanatory, but some might make a whoosh noise as they go right over your head. The trick to knowing which is which is to be familiar with who your drinking companions are.

Stay tuned for more handy hints & tips, coming soon to a computer screen near you.

[Badstench]

BEST BITS

Funny Stuff From The Giggle Bag

Knowing that one day I will die, I asked Mr. Yarrow if there was Sryth in Heaven. He said he had good news and bad news.

Curious, I asked, "What's the good news?"

"There is Sryth in Heaven!" He says.

Relieved, I then asked, "So what's the bad news?"

"You're playing this Friday."

Courtesy of Maskull, July 25, 2009

[Badstench]

Players in the Spotlight: 3 Tough Questions

Dariel
Q1) Your recent posts hinted that you have been a long time player of the game and a forum member, but the username, “Dariel” is not a familiar one. Did you use a different handle in the past that we might recognize?
Well, while I was previously playing the game (around a year ago) my username was electrox. If I remember correctly, two of my most used characters were Wolf and Dariel. On the old forums, I don't even remember what username I used there. I know, it sounds silly, but I really don't XD. I made a new account on the game because I forgot the password to both the account and the email I used (the funny thing is, it was my main email...).

Q2) What is your overall impression of the Sryth forum now?
I think it's perfect. Definitely better than the old forum.

Q3) You have stated in the forum that you have a book accepted for publication. You must feel pretty good about that? Can you tell us what the title is, so we can buy it when it hits the shelves?
The title is "Dariel Sapphirus", and yes, I feel extremely good about it. You can read the first chapter at http://wambulenceman.deviantart.com/gallery/#/d21qaff

[Badstench]

BEST BITS

A QUIET MOMENT WITH
THE PRODUCER

“Be careful what you wish for”. Truly an appropriate adage for many of the answers given to the question; Concerning loose-end items in your storage or carried equipment lists, which incomplete item would you most like to see completed?

90% of the panel members mentioned the Sword of Merzekk. It was purely coincidental that the answers were submitted just prior to the latest game development concerning that fabled weapon. I’d like to think our combined mental wave-lengths joined to send an influencing message to the Gamemaster. For our next trick, I’d like everyone to imagine Judge Fury being given 1000 adventure tokens!

But seriously, now that we’ve re-discovered the path that might lead to the completion/ finding of the Sword of Merzekk, I wonder if there are other people who, like me, feel a little trepidation at what might truly be uncovered. Will our expectations be fully realised? Will the reality of Merzekk’s lost weapon prove to be, in the words of Douglas Adams, a bit of a Gnab Gib (the opposite of a Big Bang)? In other words, will the climax be overwhelmed by the “anti”?

For me, the sword of Merzekk has existed as a legend almost since dot one of my playing experience in the world of Sryth; from the moment I discovered a cloudy gemstone in the hole of a rampaging Thurnworm, then bought a rusty old sword in a moment of madness and found it to be an unrecognised artefact of lost power.

You know what I like about legends? They make me feel a sense of wonder; a sense that there are mysteries and secrets consigned to the unobtainable past; a sense that we all need to believe in ‘things’ that are larger than life.

I fear the reality of the Sword of Merzekk might prove disappointing, and once the sword is made whole, the fact of the mystery no longer existing will leave a hole in our playing histories.

[Badstench]

BEST BITS

Funny Stuff From the Giggle Bag

I have to admit, I've edited this joke to coincide with current events. Apologies to zmflavius

The CEO of British Petroleum stood before God. Upon reaching there, he noticed that a wall in heaven was covered in clocks.

He asked God, "What are those Clocks?"

God replied,"Those are lie-clocks. Every time you lie, the clock hands move.

"So where's George Bush's clock?"

"It's over there. It moved quite a lot in the past eight years."

"Then where's George Washington's clock?"

"It's over there, the hands have only moved twice."

"And where's mine?"

"It's in my office. I'm using it as a ceiling fan."

Courtesy of Zmflavius

[Badstench]

Players in the Spotlight: 3 Tough Questions

Lightwielder
Q1) Lightwielder is seen intermitently of late. Your real life keeps you away from the game. While "away", do you ever find yourself wondering about the game and how it's going?
Yes, I do. I see a bunch of threads in the Adventurer's Lounge that I intentionally don't browse, because I haven't gotten to them yet. It's not so much my real life that keeps me away from the game, but the fact that my subscription has been down for awhile. I am working on restarting that. If I was able to play, I most certainly would. Occasionally, I will have a hectic week or two, where Sryth falls on my ladder of priorities, but it's usually not for too long.

Q2) And when you find time to re-join the game, do you initially look for new content, or is your focus on improving your character through scenarios you are already familiar with?
For the most part, yes, I look for the new content. It depends on what new content is available, but I get around to them eventually. There seem to be a bunch of new updates waiting for me when I can get back on, so this makes me quite happy. This is not to say that I don't do the replayables, because I do.

Q3) As a member of this forum, how would you rate it on a scale from 1-10, with 1 being, "this is crap", and 10 being, "this is awesome!"
I love this Forum! I'd probably say...9. Even when I'm not hanging around in the World of Sryth, I still log on to the Forum. Anyone who pays attention will see that I often log on several times a day. I don't always post, but I will still get on to see if I need to respond to anything.


Oldschool
Q1) In a past interview, it was asked of you, “Who’s meaner; Xarakk or Ildraria?” Your answer was, and I quote, “Xarakk! and that's from a definite personal, "you've-been-slain" viewpoint.

Do you still stand by that comment?
The answer is, “HELL NO!” And that's from a personal, "you've been-slain" viewpoint as well. While all the bosses seemed to have been on a training regimen, Ildraria has been, by far, the most beefed up.

Q2) Over the past year, you were nominated and accepted as being a forum moderator. Any regrets?
Not really. The only thing that readily comes to mind are some "mod mistakes" I've made, which aren't really regrets as, luckily, they weren't major or unrecoverable. Oh! that and sometimes being the chief instigator and/or main player in thread derailments.

Q3) Your main character is “Hawk”. Does he still enjoy more play time than your secondaries?
Yes... and more than before, of late. Although my overall playing time has lessened somewhat, Hawk enjoys more of that time. Part of the reason is all the replayable content we now enjoy. Normally, I would alternate my secondaries during those times when Hawk was waiting for timer resets - which have dropped considerably especially if one runs the Battlegrounds and multiplayers.

[Badstench]

BEST BITS


Recently, I saw someone ask for advice on the value of Tzal-Toalth vs. other weapons. I can’t recall who that was, but it reminded me of the first post I offered in this new forum. Most of you will be familiar with my exposé on the staff, but I include it in this anniversary celebration for newer players who haven’t seen it.


Tzal-Toalth Exposed

Because Judge Fury has already attained legendary status in Necromancy and has just achieved the same with his skill in the use of staves, he now feels qualified to comment on the strengths, weaknesses and fallibilities of the infernal weapon known as Tzal-Toalth

And it is infernal, having a point of origin in the planes of Hell and, in particular, with the demon lord, Jhaloth.

Tzal-Toalth is a formidable weapon on its own, as evidenced by the statistics below:
_____________________________
* Class: Weapon, Staff
* Encumbrance: 8
* Quality: Magical
* Power: Swarm of Bats
* Melee Rating: +35
* Aura: +1
* Spirit: +1

* Requires 2 hands
* Requires 75 Weaponry.
* Requires 75 Weaponry: Staves.
______________________________

But Jhaloth cannot claim sole responsibility for the magnificence of this weapon, for the true might of Tzal-Toalth is only made manifest when used in conjunction with the amulet known as Ghor-Tiln’s Eye. In effect, the two items are one, and when both are worn/ wielded together, the power of the staff is magnified to stunning proportion.

Indeed, in the hands of one skilled to legendary status in weaponry, staves and the necromantic arts, it becomes a rival to any of the greatest weapons known to exist.

Feast you, now, on the full manifestation of Tzal-Toalth as wielded by Judge Fury!
_____________________________

Your Phantom Weapon is cloaking this item. Phantom bonuses are listed in purple below.

* Class: Weapon, Staff
* Encumbrance: 8
* Quality: Magical
* Power: Swarm of Bats
* Melee Rating: +43/+4, and +5 extra vs. Undead, and +5 extra vs. Demons
* Aura: +1/+4
* Spirit: +1/+4
* This item has been imbued with a special magical bonus:
+2 Melee Rating

* Requires 2 hands
* Requires 83 Weaponry.
* Requires 83 Weaponry: Staves.
_________________________________

In truth, Tzal-Toalth is a weapon of awesome power, but it is certainly not the most powerful weapon in existence. Having said that, the only weapons currently better than Tzal-Toalth are only obtainable from the shyster commonly referred to as Tallys.

************************************************** ***

WARNING!
Misuse of Tzal-Toalth by the uninitiated can result in dire consequences!

Listen close if you should aspire to the ownership of Tzal-Toalth, for the weapon has demonic origins and denies all masters except he who created it: Jhaloth. It takes great powers of will and ability to even hold the staff let alone wield it in battle, and the weapon is not without a fickle nature.

Much of the power invested to the staff by Jhaloth was taken from the neverness. As such, it is an item powered by the energy of the neverness and subject to those forces.

Without a link to the neverness, Tzal-Toalth withers to a shadow of its true magnificence. In the material plane of existence, the link between the neverness and the staff is provided through the innate magic ability of the human (or otherwise) wielder, with special affectation for those who practice the necromantic arts.

The short end of this is… if the wielder ever drains his/ her nevernal energy completely, Tzal-Toalth loses nearly all it’s might and becomes as shown below:
___________________________

* Class: Weapon, Staff
* Encumbrance: 8
* Quality: Magical
* Power: Swarm of Bats
* Melee Rating: +5
* Aura: +1
* Spirit: +1

* Requires 2 hands
____________________________

To suffer such a reduction of power in the middle of a battle can prove the demise of the unwary. Let it not happen to you!

~~~~~~~~~


I was heartily congratulated on the presentation of my findings regarding Tzal-Toalth, and felt haughtily proud of my achievements in maxing out its capabilities and discovering its flaw.

That bubble of haughtiness was soon burst when Scarbrow discovered that the reported weakness of Tzal-Toalth was actually caused by a game bug, which was subsequently fixed. In effect, the weapon is even better because of Scarbrow’s observation.

Indeed, at the time the article was written, Tzal-Toalth was the best weapon a player character could attain for free, but only if he/she could unlock its full power. This was true even against the fact that it is a two-handed weapon that denies the holding of a shield.

If I remember correctly, the very best weapon to own 1 year ago was the Axe of the Silver Blaze.

[Badstench]

10 Hints & Tips for Surviving the Sryth Forum

1) Thou shalt recognize and revere the name “Havoc”, who created the forum. “Havoc be thy name, thy forum come, on the Net as it is in cyberspace”.
2) Before beginning your perusal of the forum pages, don your thickest skin.
3) Thou shalt not swear… unless the swear word is appropriate within the context of the subject matter… but never use any words that rhyme with stunt or kangaroo.
4) That’s right. I said “kangaroo”! You’d be surprised how many shockingly filthy words Australians have concocted to rhyme with that marsupial.
5) Oh, and don’t use any word that rhymes with ‘marsupial’, either!
6) Thou shalt not encourage thingirl unnecessarily. It’s no secret that she is the forum’s most prolific poster. If thingirl’s posts could be equated to a science fiction creature, they’d be like a Tribble (those furry little things in Star Trek that breed like… well, like Tribbles!)
7) Thou shalt not proclaim anything of a factually historical nature without being very sure of your information. A certain person who shall remain nameless [Badstench] has often fallen victim to the knowledgeable eyes that roam these electronic pages. In other words, you can’t get away with any inaccuracies in here!
8) Thou shalt feel free to offer opinions, suggest ideas, discuss matters, discourse on other matters, rant, rave, or generally be vocal in whatever manner that befits your need… except for one. Spamming will not be tolerated!
9) Thou shalt bow to the four points of the compass and turn widdershins every time the forum is opened on your computer. This will have absolutely no effect on anything except to amuse the rest of us who imagine the worried looks on the faces of your family members when you do it.
10) Thou shalt bring your sense of humour and have fun… this is the only hint & tip that holds any real merit.

[Badstench]

Players in the Spotlight: 3 tough questions

Doolipalally
Q1) After one year of operation, what is your honest opinion of this new forum compared to the old?
I like this new forum. I had to go and check something on the old forum the other day, and I'd forgotten how unappealing it was in design compared to the new one. I also much prefer the rep system on this forum to the exalts on the old, because of the ability to comment as you rep. While I'm on the subject, I'd like to say thanks to the mods and admins. Scarbrow and Oldschool in particular have been doing a lot of work recently, and it's much appreciated. (That's not to say everyone else's work isn't, it's just a comment on what's been most noticeable!) Edit: Well said.

Q2) You've explained to us that you have re-located to Russia (real life). Have you found any difficulties accessing the game or the forum from there?
Short answer: nope! Longer answer: I've had one or two hiccups with my internet connection, but judging by other people's occasional posts on this forum, that happens everywhere - it certainly happened in the UK now and then.

Q3) Rhia is your main character. She sits quite nicely on the rankings list. Is this something that motivates your gaming?
Yes and no. It doesn't motivate my gaming, exactly - I'd still be logging into Sryth regularly and looking forward to new content whatever Rhia's rank - but it does sometimes motivate me to grind. It's only an occasional factor, though. Most of the time I prefer to concentrate on my own targets, rather than comparing myself to other players.

Shadowblack
Q1) You still play the game regularly and are a source of wisdom for the forum. Has your longevity dampened your ardour for the game at all?
Ardour? I just learned a new word, lol.

Anyway, no, my longevity has had no effect on my feelings for the game. Other things occasionally do, such as extremely frustrating randomness, but it’s always temporary.

Q2) At one time, you had hoarded an enviable amount of XP points. Have you spent them yet?
No, and I don’t plan to, because if I did I would have nothing left to achieve. Besides, it’s more fun to brag about advancing a skill/power with specific experience only.

Q3) What is your opinion of this new forum, now that it’s been operational for one year?
Better than the old one. Not much else to say, which is a good thing for a forum.

[Badstench]

The Sryth Forum has been enjoying the appearance of new members to the ranks of those who have been here a while. A “while” can be explained as... more than six months, or more than two years. Some members have been here for much longer.

People come and go; this is the nature of living an internet existence. It doesn’t matter how much you enjoy interacting with people in this forum, sooner or later, Real Life will demand your attention, and rightly so.

New members are welcomed and assimilated into this community. Whether they first arrive seeking hints for game/ character progression, or want to comment about various aspects of the game that irks them or that they like... what it boils down to is, the more people who join our forum, for however long, their presence is welcome.

Having said that, this post was created to acknowledge past members who are no longer with us. Whether those people have stopped playing Sryth altogether or simply stopped visiting the forum, they deserve recognition.

Some of you will recognize all of the names listed below, or all of you will recognize some of the names listed below, but all of you won’t recognise all of the names listed below (apologies to Abraham Lincoln)

This post is a recognition of past members and friends

The Sryth Forum Role of Honour

Blackcrowe – A Welshman who brought us Varsil Demonsoul. He had a couple of other characters, but Varsil was one he played to perfection; A rogue, a thief, a despicable character that was once referred to as ... “Varsil, you snot-bodgering goats merkin!”

Dustinbag – Also known as Badtouch. In real life, this guy stood at 6’7”. He was one of those guys who always had something nice to say about anyone. A real joy.

Gypsy01 – The rumour was that she was aged 70+. I can’t confirm this, but I can confirm that Gypsy01 lives on with her character, Jinx.

Shalok-Gul – I have a vague feeling that this was a secret manifestation of Blackcrowe, because the name is Welsh. Doolipalally might correct me on this. If I’m wrong, you should know that Shalok-Gul was always ready to be controversial.

Sub Zero – His Player/ controller was Australian. I believe he lived in Perth, Western Australia. Sub Zero was played as a thoroughly evil character. He role-played the same in the forum, and it was always fun.

Barn42 – This member epitomized the saying, “Don’t speak lest you’ve got something worth saying”. His posts were always read with due consideration.

Mattman20 – He’s promised to come back, but the last I heard... his puter wasn’t a viable reality. Mattman is missed because he always had something of value to add to any conversation.

Raleightsakers – One of the over-achievers, this Player appeared and took the ranking list by storm. He vanished at the same speed. In the meantime, he posted in the forum stuff that was poignant and exacting.

Laudimir – A stalwart; a veritable dolmen; a rock! Laudimir was one of those people who seldom spoke, but when he did, everyone listened.

~~~~~

And more... people who deserve recognition....

Carior
Hpmons
Dragonmage
Chareos
Grymlock
Xrayspecs

And another category of members who haven’t been seen for a while, but who might drop in from time-to-time

Taleria
Wetheril
Hastifier
Joddelle

If anyone has been missed by the naming, please believe that someone, somewhere, somehow... remembers you.

I saved the last name till... erm, last... because he has been with us for many years. Recently, Elrond decided to quit the forum and the game. He had his reasons, none of which I will explain here, suffice it to say that Elrond will be missed. For those of you who don't know, Elrond was also known as Elendil, Theodril, and Tallys' Apprentice.

Elrond once said something to me in a private message the wisest things I've ever heard...

Damn! I wish I could remember what it was.

[Badstench]

BEST BITS

Funny Stuff From the Giggle Bag

The following joke is a variation of one submitted by Maskull.

Badstench was browsing the internet when a computer genie appeared on his screen. Said the Genie...

“You have managed to unlock the path to one wish. Anything you desire will be granted. I am your servant, the Genie of wishes.”

“Can I think about it?” asked Badstench

“Yes” intoned the Genie. “But, you only have ten minutes before the wish disappears”

Badstench, being from New Zealand, thought about wishing for his soccer team to beat Paraguay, thereby qualifying for the second round of the world soccer cup.

But why stop there? He could wish for the New Zealand team to win the world cup outright!

Said Badstench, “I wish New Zealand would win the world soccer cup!”

The genie turned a shade of red that denoted his embarrassment. “Some things are not within my power, and that’s a big ask! Do you have another wish?”

Badstench thought a bit more. “Well, I’m running Vista on my computer. Any chance you could speed it up and stop it from crashing?”

And the Genie answered, “Would you like New Zealand to win the final against Brazil or Germany?”

[Badstench]

Players in the Spotlight: 3 Tough Question

Badstench
Q1) Elrond once asked if you might ever develop ‘forum burn-out’. With such endeavours as this anniversary presentation, you must spend a lot of time on it (the forum). Is Elrond’s query any less relevant now?
No, but there are moments when I’m not so vocal. Sometimes, I prefer to just peruse what others have to say. I enjoy being part of this community, and I’m a habitual writer. Things I enjoy doing aren’t a chore at all.

Q2) So, you see yourself regaling the forum members with your idiosyncrasies for the foreseeable future?
Yes

Q3) You once described yourself as, and I quote, “A horse’s ass”.
No I didn’t. I said that, at times, I might come across as sounding like a horse’s ass.
Same thing, isn’t it?
You think? Well, you’re ugly and your mother dresses you funny!

[Badstench]

BEST BITS

What follows is a sampling of things said by forum members over the past year. These quotes are a matter of public record, so anything re-presented here that may cause any individual discomfort or embarrassment is entirely your own fault. Muahahahahaha!

Quotable Quotes

Doolipalally said:I just renewed my AG membership for the first time, which got me into a nostalgic mood thinking about the past 12 months in Sryth. It's definitely been a good year. I'm looking forward to the next one
From, “A Year in Sryth”, July 17, 2009

Oldschool wished:
I’d like the opportunity to slap ole Rokmokkara around again.
Also from, “A Year in Sryth”, July 17, 2009

Corgrim stated:
Maybe I should just withdraw the comment until I can back it up.
From, “Sryth Wiki – New is Less Effective?”, June 30, 2009.
[Edit: I deny anyone to say they haven’t felt like this at some time.]

Scout1idf admitted:
For over a year now, I've "lived" on the computer playing the game almost every minute I wasn't at work or asleep.
From, “A Complaint”, August 9, 2009

Badstench announced:
If it takes for me to jab somebody's sensibilities and moral outrage to achieve the airing of good ideas, then, yes, I'm a "horse's ass"... and proudly so.
From, “Elixirs Anyone? A Discussion”, July 26, 2009
[Edit: Oh, bugger! That damned roving reporter was right!]

Oldschool observed:
Boy, I really need to switch to decaf!
From, “Tallys is Here”, July 11, 2009

Doolipalally advised:
So that would be my top tip for all you harassed husbands/sons out there – bit of forward planning, bit of communication, works every time!
From, “My Wife/Husband Hates Sryth!”, July 18, 2009

Scout1idf warned loudly:
DO NOT USE THE FINGER!
From, “What Do You Do?... What Do You Do?”, August 30, 2009

Elrond sighed:
Sometimes I miss those old places in Sryth where adventure memories just won't go away.
From, “Nostalgia”, September 27, 2009

The Roving Reporter proclaimed:
I can advertise that the first recipient of our interviews will be that master of merchandising, the stalwart of sales, the viagra of vending... none other than Tallys himself!

To which an anonymous voice asked, “What does ‘Viagra of Vending’ mean?”

And zmflavius jumped in... “I think it means he drives a hard bargain!”
From, “10 Questions: Non-Players in the Spotlight”, October 18, 2009

Thingirl enunciated:
I HATE SPELLCHECK!
From lots of threads!

Wetheril greeted:
Nice to see you back again, Sub Zero! There hasn't been enough evil around here lately.
From, “Muahahahahaha”, November 20, 2009

Badstench said:
My foot is firmly attached to my leg. Let's hope it stays there, as opposed to being in my mouth.
From, “The Gauntlet”, September 26, 2009

Joddelle snickered:
His little prick did not pop the bubble of your ego?
Also from, “The Gauntlet”, September 26, 2009

Draxas yarned:
My wife and children tried for years to get me onto a computer. They knew I was a D&D freak, so one day, my wife is trying to get me to look at a game [Sryth]. I’m a jerk and answered, “Honey, why do you keep trying to bother me with the computer? You know I’m not into that techno stuff.” She talks me into looking at it anyway, so I read the testimonials, tried the free version, and dropped $20 [to become AG] later that day. Now I’m hooked! I bought an aircard and try to play whenever I can.
From, “How Did You Find Sryth?”, January 3, 2010

Billydakid quipped:
Be careful. If you get too many Marks of Death, your character will blow up!
From, “Marks of Death”, December 14, 2009

Smv1973 ambiguously (and hilariously) noted:
The GM also made a hint that the people who chose to serve him may have the chance to get back their soul.
From, “Ezerok is Back!”, August 10, 2009

The Roving Reporter announced:
More bang for your bucks! More tick for your time! More “oomph” for your interest!
From, “7 Questions. Players in the Spotlight”, August 13, 2009

Perhaps my very favourite quote is this one...
Ayeohx mooted:
After checking out all of the data you guys have given me, I think I'm screwed.
From, “Hit the Wall”, August 20, 2009

[Badstench]

Acknowledgements

Before this thread is opened for general comment and well-wishes, I’d like to take time out to acknowledge and thank a few people. The old forum was a good grounding for this new version, and now that we’ve experienced one year of it, I’m sure you’ll agree that it has many attributes that are an improvement. However, it has only been made that way through the time and dedication of a few people who have worked to make this forum the success it has become.

Havoc, without whose decision to revamp the whole site, none of this would have happened.

Scarbrow, whose specific expertise with regards to computers, and whose additions and updates have kept the forum fresh and appealing

Shadowblack, as a responsible super-moderator, whose longevity in the game has enabled us access to a mine of accurate information and history.

Oldschool, who, as a moderator, has approached the task with an admirable enthusiasm, always ready with words of help and advice, and whose regular contributions keep us entertained.

Smv1973, another moderator who has earned high regard and respect for his insights, and for the fact that his character, Thordon, knocked Magical off the top game ranking position. He has, in turn, been knocked off himself, but what the hey!

Thingirl, who, among other toilers, has helped keep the Sryth wiki up-to-date and accurate, and also for her constantly up-beat banter.

Young Ned, whose fountain of knowledge has kept us on the straight-and-narrow. Without him, the "Real World" boards would probably be full of inaccuracies, misinformation and outright bollocks!

Doolipalally, simply because I like reading, saying and writing her handle. "Doolipalally".... "Doolipalally"... you see? It's like a poem in one word.

But seriously, she's a very cool person whose posts are always worth reading, even if it's to tell us blokes about "forward thinking"!

And finally, to all the members of the forum, past and present - you all deserve a hearty round of applause and congratulations for all the questions, comments, advice, laughs, arguments, and mature approach.

I thank you and the forum thanks you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And without further ado, it simply remains to wish this new forum a happy birthday, so...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FORUM!


... Oh, and as promised, the answers to the Sryth Quiz are as follows...

Q1 = b) The three names were fellow contestant in Talwarden’s archery tournament.
Q2 = b) With deference to a point made by Shadowblack, the “hut” was actually the hillside itself... kinda like a Hobbit hole, I guess. However, the question did ask for the best description.
Q3 = a) The imps would do a runner when melee was joined, dropping the keys in their haste to flee.
Q4 = c) You remember the “Rine Beast?” that was one of the toughest adventures to complete when I first became an AG member.
Q5 = c) When this question was first asked most people got it wrong, so don’t feel too bad if you got it wrong too.
Q6 = d) Galarud and Jagada were two named Goblins who guarded Blalak in the early adventure, The Caves of Westwold.
Q7 = b) And the sign is still there. Shame on Piripor!
Q8 = a) The emaciated figure is presumed to be the Human form of Talderus Redborn.
Q9 = d) A tricky one unless you did some research first. The word, “howl” threw a lot of people off the scent.
Q10 = b) Tarungar’s Axe is a goodie, even though it isn’t magic in nature. Most people think it was a wasted reward, but those people obviously haven’t used it. (to coin a phrase from Alice... “Curiouser and curiouser”)
Q11 = c) Yep, the most boring of the three possible answers. The road leads to (and from) the city of Syr.
Q12 = a) Nah... I’m kidding. The answer is, of course, d). The funny thing is that in the original quiz, this question had 5 possible answers instead of 4, so a few people saw the correct answer as being the last option and automatically answered d), but “Badstench” was actually answer e). That was my impish self having fun!
Q13 = erm... Oh, there aren’t any more!.... or are there? In actual fact, there are 15 questions to this quiz. If you didn’t spot questions 13, 14 and 15, then you’re already 3 points in arrears. The trick is to read back over all the anniversary posts and let your lateral eye rove.

Have fun!

[Badstench]

This thread is now open for your additions

[Lightwielder]

A special thanks needs to be given to our ever-so-humble Badstench, who did not think himself important enough to be on that list.

Not even necessary to mention that he set up THIS Board, but he also serves as moderator, reporter(or inquisitor, whichever you prefer), entertainer, and dedicated Sryth player; among other things!

(Seriously, with all the work you do on the Forum alone, not even to mention the work you do in real life, how do you still find time to make Judge Fury so powerful?)


KUDOS to Badstench!

Oh, yes. Happy Birthday, Forum!

*sigh* I'm certain I could do that better...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FORUM!!!

(That's better.)

[smv1973]

Thank you very much Badstench for all the time and effort you put into the forum.


Happy Anniversary Forum.

I hope the next year will bring more great additions to the forum from the forum members. I also hope that we will be able to add or update threads with new content from the game this next year.

[texlaw1992]

Although I think I should be on the list as well - after all, how would anyone otherwise know to give Barynbor a wedgie? (lol)

[Lightwielder]

Although I think I should be on the list as well - after all, how would anyone otherwise know to give Barynbor a wedgie? (lol)

You are.

And finally, to all the members of the forum, past and present - you all deserve a hearty round of applause and congratulations for all the questions, comments, advice, laughs, arguments, and mature approach.

See?

[Arik]

As other people have said, thanks for the work on the forum (and this thread), Badstench!

And...

Happy Birthday Forum!

[Young Ned]

Happy Anniversary, Forum!

Many thanks to Badstench for all his contributions to this forum, including this very thread, which I've been enjoying greatly since it began. I don't know how he keeps up with the daily "Happy Birthdays!" posts, let alone with everything else he does here, but I certainly appreciate all the time, effort, and wit he puts into them.

Thanks also to Badstench for the kind words in his Acknowledgments. (I'm not sure how I feel about being noted primarily for corrections, but being called a fountain of knowledge is quite a compliment so I take it as a good thing overall. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v735/Old_Ned/icon_cool.gif)

This forum would not be what it is without all the people who read and post here. (Indeed, without them it would merely be an empty, hollow shell of a forum, of no interest to anyone.) So I'd like to say thanks to all our past and present members for making this such a civil, friendly forum, a beacon of warmth in the wilds of the Intertubes.

[srythgm]

A happy 1st Anniversary to the new Sryth Forum and best wishes and much thanks to all those who have helped to make the forum a great resource for players new and established alike!

I would like to give special thanks to everyone who has participated in the forum and extra special thanks to those whose efforts have helped to make it a special place to visit. The clever and imaginative "questions" threads and the like are most certainly in keeping with the spirit of the game. My hat goes off to all who help to make such interesting, informative, and fun contributions. Thank you!

A special thanks to Badstench for the interviews and questions which I found fun to take part in, and which I hope were informative and interesting!

Sryth has come a long way since its earliest days, and there have been many changes along the way. One thing that has remained constant -- something that this forum and its members serve as a constant reminder of -- is that the Sryth community (its players/adventurers) is one full of thoughtful, considerate, intelligent, and creative people.

As your humble GM I can't seem to put into words my true appreciation for the time that players take to provide feedback, send in bug & typo reports, make suggestions, and even voice the occasion grievance! Your kind words and your dedication to the game, as well as your support have been nothing short of astounding. I can only say Thank You!

I don't post on the forum very much (understatement) and this may well be only the second posting I've ever made, but the forum is, after all, a place for Sryth's Adventurers. Besides, I'm usually stuck behind a cluttered table -- in a small, windowless building with a blue door ;)

Once again, thanks to everyone who has helped (in any way) to make the new Sryth forum a success. May your Stamina Points never drop below 1 and may you only roll 20s in combat!

As always, all the very best,

Your humble GM

[texlaw1992]

The GM's sentiments are much appreciated and I agree with them wholeheartedly. I'll make sure to acknowledge him next time I visit a certain building with a blue door.

[Young Ned]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v735/Old_Ned/not_worthy.gif http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v735/Old_Ned/not_worthy.gif http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v735/Old_Ned/not_worthy.gif

[Scarbrow]

This time you made it, Badstench!
Hooray!
You even attracted the GM to (publicly) visit us!

[Oldschool]

A hearty and sincere "You're Welcome" and associated rep to the GM.

[spencer]

It is great that he took the time to thank us. I love this game!!

[Lightwielder]

As your humble GM I can't seem to put into words my true appreciation for the time that players take to provide feedback, send in bug & typo reports, make suggestions, and even voice the occasion grievance! Your kind words and your dedication to the game, as well as your support have been nothing short of astounding. I can only say Thank You!

And we can't put into words our appreciation of your dedication to the players. Not to mention the fact that you have EXCELLENT writing form and style, and manage to effectively produce a successful game without graphics in today's speedy, chaotic world.

If I had a hat, it would be off to you. :)

Thank you very much for all of YOUR hard work, Gamemaster, and we hope you'll stick around to continue to provide such great entertainment to us.

(And, although you say that the Forum is a place for Sryth's Adventurers, you are more than welcome to visit us any time, for any reason. We don't mind sharing :))

[Badstench]

The forum is now well past 18 months existent.

I've wanted to make a comment on developments since the presentation of the first anniversary, especially surrounding the arrival of new contributors to the forum.

It's true that we've lost a few members to Real Life, which is to be expected. Happily, some of those members have called to visit us on the odd occassion, which is fantastic. I can only speak for myself when saying their visits are like meeting old friends.

Just as importantly, we've been blessed with new friends. I won't embarrass anyone by naming names, but I am constantly blown away by how the recent arrivals get into the spirit of things and add to the maintenance of this forum.

Continued recognition must also go to the administrators, moderators and regular contributors who keep the forum a place of interest. It's not just about the game.... it's about cameraderie.

Well done, everyone.

[Oldschool]

A bit early but a reminder nonetheless that we're approaching OUR second anniversary. :)

Feedback, celebration ideas, etc.... sought and welcome.

[Badstench]

Oldschool just reminded me of the passing of time.

"Really? Has a year gone by so quickly?"

I have an idea I'd like to throw out there for open discussion... for the second anniversary, I'd like to take a different tack.

I'd like to present the anniversary special, not from the viewpoint of forum members as Players of Sryth, but from your main character instead. In effect, I'm aiming at a convention of Sryth adventurers. I've already spoken to Thane Pyrond, and he has tentatively agreed to let us use the jousting arena in Trithik. I'm owed a favour or two from various carpenters and metalworkers in the city, so it shouldn't cost too much to transform the arena into an auditorium.

We have roughly 6 weeks before the due date. If anyone wants to submit thoughts, monologues, ideas, fiction, soliloquies or gratitudes, please send your submissions to me... Badstench... as a private message. All contributions will be welcomed.

In the meantime, Judge Fury will absent himself from the Adventurers Collective while he concocts a programme of humourous, interesting and informative articles befitting an entertainment of such importance.

See you sometime at the end of June!

[Badstench]

ANNIVERSARY 2

First, the news...


1) In Trithik, a 7,2 earthquake rocked the city. Nothing fell down, which is quite amazing. However, two pigs got loose from their pens in Blade Square and up-ended a few stalls. The pigs were duly arrested and face trial for being unruly.

2) King Wenreald has released the annual budget. The military has been offered a 10% increase, better to deal with those pesky Goblins. To offset this, the Beggars Fund has been slashed to zilch. The King figures that if they have to beg, they can do it without a handout. The tax on beer and palo has gone up. You’re not surprised, are you?

3) Adventurers are now taxed on their gains from adventuring, which will only come into affect when you sell your spoils. If you don’t like it, Judge Gallows is standing nearby. The Law is the law.

4) A big and nasty dragon laid waste to the lands around Syr recently. King Wenreald has called for stout adventurers to go kick its ass. Any treasure you find will be taxed, of course.

5) A two-headed donkey was born in the stables outsisde Talinus. This is one of the prime signs that the Age of Igtheon is on our doorstep. Get rid of your doorsteps.

And now, the weather

Storm clouds are gathering in the south, the east, the west and the north, so if you live in the midde, stay there, 'cos it's no bloody good anywhere else!

[Tetracapillactomist]

This is one of the prime signs that the Age of Igtheon is on our doorstep. Get rid of your doorsteps.

http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-fc/horse.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)I understood your portent and your hidden message, Insigtful One, and got rid of everything that could pass for a doorstep in my real world yurt in the middle of the barren steppes, O Wise One!

Clearly, it seems that by doing so, I prevented the Apocalypse yesterday (or whatever it was, that did not happen!), for which I now claim shared credit!

I also demanded of the GM that the arrival Age of Igtheon be announced with precision, that the day and hour of the Impending Doom be specified!
(And that it ought not fall on a Saturday, in case we have to deal with another one in the real world, next week, and the week after that, and the one after that, and then the next one, and the week after that, and... ... ...)

So I think something of that magnitude, (and me! - and You, of course, All-Knowing One!) should be in some befitting way be celebrated during this coming anniversary! (We saved the world!...)

http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-fc/bottle.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

[Oldschool]

Closed this thread as we have a new one for the forum's second anniversary. Here's the link to the new thread, http://www.srythforum.com/showthread.php?t=1620