Zumryn's battlegrounds

[smv1973]

Link to the old forum.

http://shadowwolf47.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=talk&action=display&thread=5048




The high-walled courtyard in which you stand, extending south and west from the imposing red stone keep that serves as the illustrious residence for Zumryn, is home to the master adventurer's legendary battlegrounds.

It's here that Zumryn, an accomplished swordsman and a master in the magical discipline of gating, has long employed his arcane powers to gauge the combat prowess of those bold enough to test their mettle in his battlegrounds.

Zumryn's battlegrounds will soon be reopened. Sryth's greatest adventurers will once again be able to prove their might as they battle their way through the perilous challenges created by the illustrious lord of the red stone keep.

The battlegrounds employ a ladder system for its various challenges, which places adventurers in direct competition with one another as they strive to achieve the top rankings in each of Zumryn's special events.

[smv1973]

I had the black orb of Destruction kill the Iron Marauder now 2 time in 2 different runs so the GM must of made a change to this.

[shadowblack]

Due to your previous success on this challenge, you will begin this attempt at level 2.

Maybe some day I'll be able to make it past level 34...

So, do you guys use powers to block the stones?

[scout1idf]

I did at first till I realized that restoration would be needed alot sooner than in the other.

Now I dodge and succeed 75% to 80% of the time.

[racey]

I use powers to block the stones if it will net a 16 or 24 xp reward. I dodge the others. I suppose I should say I try to dodge the others because it only works about 75% of the time.

[spencer]

I use powers until I am down to my regular NVR. I start out with NVR heavy gear and then gradually switch over.

[solitu]

I agree with Spencer. If I fail the check, I'll have to use one restoration and get nothing; so I'd rather use an NvR and always receive xp...

Besides with my MR even NvRs cannot bring me too far:p

[zmflavius]

So far, I've always used dodge, since while getting hit only penalizes me 10-20 damage, my restoration can heal up to 35 SP, so I figure that restoration is more NV effective.

[Mattman20]

You've Picked a Random Number...


73 FAILURE...
You needed greater than or equal to 75 to succeed.
You picked 34 modified by 39 for a total of 73 .






The huge stone smashes into you, knocking you off your feet and sending you sprawling backwards...


SP -38 You've lost 38 Stamina Points.



Those stones hurt. I'd advise not taking chances, cause unless your restoration is at least 76, you're not gonna heal that back in one go. And even if it is, that's a rarity at best, I'm sure. Although I'm sure this was also a rarity damage-wise, I still don't advise taking the chance, cause you never know if you'll heal back all of what you lose with just 1 NV. You may just end up being a stone's throw away... -groan- :rolleyes:

[Oldschool]

Just done my first run through and was wondering if anyone has started finding gems for the bowl yet?

[shadowblack]

Who said we'll be finding the gems while fighting the ogres? Especially since it seems like at least two of the gems will not be found there...

[solitu]

Who said we'll be finding the gems while fighting the ogres? Especially since it seems like at least two of the gems will not be found there...

Then I want a long, long story. Something like

12 Ogres, Part I: Revenge of the Fal...Griffon

[spencer]

I have been back to the cave with the bowl and tried using it at the entrance and in the last room, but no dice....so it remains to be seen where the gems might be.

[zmflavius]

Then I want a long, long story. Something like

12 Ogres, Part I: Revenge of the Fal...Griffon

exa...reped or whatever for the laugh.

[racey]

Just done my first run through and was wondering if anyone has started finding gems for the bowl yet?

I have not yet found a gem on 7 runs after getting the bowl of blood.

[Badstench]

Pssssst..... Teek has two of the gems.

Now all we have to do is find Teek.

Fear not. Irridiskar is searching for him even as we speak.

[For those of you who don't know, visit the headquarters of the Silver Crest. Take your Bowl of Blood with you.]

[psychoadept]

Finally! FINALLY I meet the ghost woman. Just got a 1024/256, but at least I didn't botch it. AHHH!!!

EDIT: Twice in one run! This has been a VERY lucky run for me; I've succeeded on a ton of orbs, too.

[Badstench]

Pssssst..... Teek has two of the gems.

Now all we have to do is find Teek.

Fear not. Irridiskar is searching for him even as we speak.

[For those of you who don't know, visit the headquarters of the Silver Crest. Take your Bowl of Blood with you.]

And if that isn't enough, you should also get yourself one of these:

Blood-Red Stone Key (Use)

* Class: Misc
* Encumbrance: 0

This blood-red stone key was given to you by the armoured ogre guardian, Gollbrum, following your victory over him.

According to what Gollbrum told you, this key will allow you entry into the Silent Temple -- a legendary shrine of Ogredom.

[shadowblack]

Shouldn't such things be put inside spoiler tags?

[Ka keng]

So, any hints on how to get that?

[solitu]

That's strange. I did the Lords of Ogredom 4 times and found nothing new or different. If the Blood-Red Stone Key were to be found there, the chance must be very low... :confused:

[Badstench]

Patience, Grasshopper. Wax on, wax off.

(And if you've got no idea where those two cryptic remarks come from... I guess it just goes to show my age!)

Anyway, now I've taken Shadowblack's advice and hidden the information behind a spoiler, you can go back to my post and check it out in more detail.

[shadowblack]

Just a note, in case anyone is wondering: Yes, the damage of the rocks thrown at you depends on their size. The largest ones (that require 70+) can do as much as 57 damage. And you don't get a chance to heal before the fight starts. So don't try to save your Nevernal Reserve - it's not worth it.

[Hastifer]

Could someone post the abilities that improve your Check when trying to grab the black orb and/or the blue orb? They're both different I know but my memory fails me on which is which (currently playing through trying to find one but noooooo).

(I already have which stats boost the lady, just not the orbs')

Also, could someone get the SUCCESS values for all of the random encounters on the Ogredom challenge? (both orbs & lady) I heard they were different in the Ogredom challenge than the BHC.

Thanks!

[shadowblack]

Healing Orb: Bonuses: Agility, Body, Luck (x0.5)
Success: 100+
Black Orb: Bonuses: Spirit, Aura
Success: 75+

It's the same for both challenges.

I have not encountered the ghost lady on Ogredom Challenge. Is that enough?

[Hastifer]

It is, thank you (rep'd)

[Joddelle]

For anyone collecting such things, the named Ogres are:
Level 5: Charakar
Level 10: Ghirajaw
Level 15: Arkenarag
Level 20: Irth the Unbroken
Level 25: Zurogun Griffonslayer
Level 30: Togg Bloodmark
Level 35: Warhand the Savage
Level 40: Hagrummok
Level 45: Dythmerim the Destroyer
Level 50: Balgorom Stonelord
Level 55:
Level 60:

Since there are references to 12 ogres fighting the griffon, I wonder if anything special happens for someone that defeats all 12...

[scout1idf]

For anyone collecting such things, the named Ogres are:
Level 5: Charakar
Level 10: Ghirajaw
Level 15: Arkenarag
Level 20: Irth the Unbroken
Level 25: Zurogun Griffonslayer
Level 30: Togg Bloodmark
Level 35: Warhand the Savage
Level 40: Hagrummok
Level 45: Dythmerim the Destroyer
Level 50:
Level 55:
Level 60:

Since there are references to 12 ogres fighting the griffon, I wonder if anything special happens for someone that defeats all 12...


If there is, there will only be a small group that will collect the prize right now.

Scout hasn't made it to level 30 yet...

[Oldschool]

Since there are references to 12 ogres fighting the griffon, I wonder if anything special happens for someone that defeats all 12...

Good question as I'm wondering about that myself and I agree with Scout if that's a/the requirement it'll be an exclusive group.

Re: The Bood-Red Stone Key

I'm running behind my normal schedule on the new content in the battlegrounds which was compounded by my getting Hawk slain on his second run. I just finished his second run successfully and got the bowl "filled" then a bit later I got a portal choice which had two portals/gates (sorry I didn't copy any of the text) one of them was blue flame wreathed. Entering it takes you to an encounter which gives you the key if successful. No more skipping those portal choices now, eh? ;)

Dang if this spoiler function isn't nice. :)

[scout1idf]

Good question as I'm wondering about that myself and I agree with Scout if that's a/the requirement it'll be an exclusive group.

Re: The Bood-Red Stone Key

I'm running behind my normal schedule on the new content in the battlegrounds which was compounded by my getting Hawk slain on his second run. I just finished his second run successfully and got the bowl "filled" then a bit later I got a portal choice which had two portals/gates (sorry I didn't copy any of the text) one of them was blue flame wreathed. Entering it takes you to an encounter which gives you the key if successful. No more skipping those portal choices now, eh? ;)

Dang if this spoiler function isn't nice. :)


Scout's only had that option one time and it was before the addition.

He just made a run through both challenges and didn't get anything "special" from either one. (He sure misses the ghost)

[Elrond]

I've been away for a few days. Now that I've gotten the bowl, I wonder what I have to do ... just keep running the challenge. Or is there anything else I've missed?

[Mattman20]

I've been away for a few days. Now that I've gotten the bowl, I wonder what I have to do ... just keep running the challenge. Or is there anything else I've missed?

If you don't mind reading some spoilers, read the rest of this thread, and possibly the last couple pages of the same thread on the old forum and you'll find what you're looking for.

[Elrond]

Thanks! I've read about the key and gems. Anything else I should be on the lookout for?

[Mattman20]

Ok once you get the bowl..

Fill it with blood by undergoing the challenge once more. You'll encounter the ghost again at random (I believe) that gave you the directions to the cave where the empty bowl is first obtained. The ghost is what fills the bowl for you.

[Elrond]

I used quick combat on my second run through the challenge (which got me the bowl). I withdrew at lvl 51 to see if the bowl would be filled in the tunnel. No go! I'll wait for my next run in another 24 hours to fill the bowl!

And I take it that the "pair" in the twitter post refers to my old Silver Crest comrades?!

[shadowblack]

I have a favor to ask: When you encounter Gollbrum you can use the following skills/powers:
The following powers/skills may be utilized here...
Powers
• Telekinesis (50+)
• Shadow Magic (50+)
• Gating (50+)
• Illusion (50+)
• Conjuration (50+)
• Elementalism (50+)
• Destruction (50+)
Skills
• Thievery (50+)
• Archery (50+)

I have the text for telekinesis. Could someone post one or more of the other texts?

[solitu]

Your use of Gating has succeeded...

XP +8 You've been awarded a total of 8 Experience...
8 xp applied to Gating...

You channel your power of gating and without a sound a swirling black portal opens to your left.

Without a second thought, you step into the vortex and emerge from a second portal only a moment later, directly behind Gollbrum.

Wasting no time, you strike your bewildered adversary a devastating blow.

[shadowblack]

Thanks! Rep'ed.

[spencer]

Has anyone ever gotten the black orb for more than three rounds in Ogredom? I have not and suspect that no one will. I am wagering that the GM will not permit it to be used against the special ogre every five levels.

[shadowblack]

Wrong on both. I have seen at least one orb that gave me five pulses:
Ogre Guardian (1 of 2) 160 Stamina (level 30)
Ogre Guardian (2 of 2) 190 Stamina; 3+ with MR 135 (levle 30)
Togg Bloodmark 329 Stamina (level 30)
Hulking Helmed Ogre 255 Stamina (level 31)
Fearsome Leather Clad Ogre 261 Stamina (level 32)

Of course, the GM may have changed it when he was fixing the glitches I reported earlier today. But I doubt it.

[spencer]

Thanks, shadowblack, that is good to know.

[billydakid]

You need to get the blood key as well.

[spencer]

Your use of Destruction has succeeded...





XP +8 You've been awarded a total of 8 Experience...
8 xp applied to Destruction...




You call upon your power of destruction and channel a powerful wave of negative Nevernal energy that courses through your body before surging forth and washing over your unsuspecting foe.

The hulking, armoured ogre roars with pain as your potent attack exacts a devastating toll.

Despite having suffered a grievous wound, Gollbrum quickly regains his composure and adeptly engages you, cruelly wielding his massive, crimson-headed mallet.

[shadowblack]

Thanks, and rep'ed!

[Joddelle]

I did many runs after 'filling' the bowl and never saw the second portal after navigating the tunnel.

I'd dumped the plain silver ring in my residence, so I retrieved it and wore it. I also didn't run through the tunnel as quick as I could, but instead moved around in it for a while until I'd killed half a dozen skeletal ogres.

One of the two must have worked, because when I left the tunnel, I had two options - the standard black glowing portal and a new fiery portal.

Doh! I used Destruction. If I'd read this first I'd have used another power or a skill

The fiery portal, of course, leads to Gollbrum and his Blood-Red Stone Key...

[racey]

Has anyone ever gotten the black orb for more than three rounds in Ogredom? I have not and suspect that no one will. I am wagering that the GM will not permit it to be used against the special ogre every five levels.

I have gotten 1 orb for 8. I also received several orbs for 6 there.

[Oldschool]

Thievery text - also got 8 xp for it.





You reach down and pick up a loos fragment of stone from the floor at your feet. With a quick flip of your wrist you send the shard of stone skittering across the chamber. As you hoped, Gollbrum instinctively turns his head in the direction of the tossed stone.
When the armoured ogre's head swings back, his eyes widen as he finds no trace of you where you stood only moments ago.
You slip out of the shadows behind your bewildered adversary and strikes him a devastating blow.
Despite having suffered a grievous wound, Gollbrum quickly regains his composure and adeptly engages you, cruelly wielding his massive, crimson-headed mallet.

EDIT: Still have two more characters to run and will post accordingly. Woulda used a power for Virago but her NR was depleted.

[Oldschool]

Has everyone gotten their bowl filled on their second run? My first three characters did, unfortunately I got Voltan slain before getting his bowl filled on his first attempt at a second run while quick combating (got killed before being thrown outta q'combat, been awhile since that has happened). Anyways I just made a successful second run and did not get the bowl filled.

Regarding the key,

Second run for Esoteric got no corridor therefore no portal choice. However second run for Virago got the corridor and she went straight to the end and got both portal choices and ultimately the key. Happened the same way for Hawk on his second run. Neither were wearing the silver ring although it was in both characters inventories - actually it's in all four.

Perhaps the above spoiler info. and bowl filling encounter are random?

[racey]

Earlier this afternoon I got the key for Trent and the ring was not even in his inventory. I stashed it at my Residence.

[Oldschool]

Since I don't recall it being reported and since I just got onto the free server, "The Lords of Ogredom" are AG only.

[thingirl]

Your use of Shadow Magic has succeeded...

XP +8 You've been awarded a total of 8 Experience...
8 xp applied to Shadow Magic...

You summon your power of shadow magic and at once a chorus of shrill whispers fills your head. You watch in amazement as the hulking ogre's own shadow wraps itself around his bulk and begins to constrict him!

Gollbrum's shadow eventually loosens its strangling grip and retreats, but not before the ogre has suffered the devastating effects of the sudden and unexpected attack.

Despite having suffered a grievous wound, Gollbrum quickly regains his composure and adeptly engages you, cruelly wielding his massive, crimson-headed mallet.
-------

I think it's 8 for each power/ skill, since all so far have been 8.

[thingirl]

XP +129 You've been awarded a total of 129 Experience...
40 xp applied to general...
38 xp applied to Weaponry...
51 xp applied to Weaponry: Slashing...
Donate to support Sryth and reward yourself!

Gollbrum staggers backwards and collapses to his knees before toppling to his side on the stone floor and becoming still.

You're about to step forward and examine the ogre's remains when he suddenly returns to his feet! You stare wide-eyed at the risen ogre who regards you with a cold, derisive glare.

"My death is quite beyond the capabilities of your hand," he grumbles, "though were I mortal I might not wish to count you among my adversaries. Well done...human..."

-----
Gollbrum inserts his hand into a space behind his heavy crimson and silver breastplate and removes the blood-red stone key he showed you only a short while ago. He unceremoniously tosses the key to you.

ITEM You've acquired: Blood-Red Stone Key

"Now, begone from here," he grumbles. "The prophecy has been fulfilled, as I had no doubt it would be. Go. We will not meet again."

Suddenly, the towering, armoured ogre reaches out and lays his right hand upon your shoulder and you're instantly healed.

SP Your Stamina Point total has been restored to full.

You regard Gollbrum with a quick nod and head for the wooden door.

You reach the portal and tug on its iron latch. The weighty slab of wood swings inward, revealing a swirling black portal immediately beyond its threshold.

Resisting the temptation to look back, you step into the vortex.

XP +1,024 You've been awarded a total of 1,024 Experience...
1,024 xp applied to general...
-------
You step into the swirling portal and are instantly immersed in impenetrable darkness.

Seconds later, the darkness that surrounds you melts away and you once again find yourself standing in the chamber before the spinning vortex from which your enemies have emerged.


By stepping through the portal you've skipped past 2 levels of this challenge...

XP +64 You've been awarded a total of 64 Experience...
64 xp applied to general...
___

Nice reward, now I just have to avoid getting killed.

[scout1idf]

Earlier this afternoon I got the key for Trent and the ring was not even in his inventory. I stashed it at my Residence.

Same here for Scout. Actually I forgot about the ring.

[Oldschool]

After more than a few runs courtesy of multiple characters I've noticed the following:

Perhaps I need to go dip my Hale Blade in the Tarn Fountain (for my SSL owning characters at least).

Rocks aplenty and the associated checks equally frustrating.

Orb rate are diametrically opposed to the above whereas the checks are even more frustrating.

Special attacks or more appropriately their results are even more frustrating than both of the above.

Aahhh, now I feel better and I've also met my title description. :rolleyes: (Is it me or do the smileys on here have some artistic interpretation involved - lol.)

[Mattman20]

Due to your previous success on this challenge, you will begin this attempt at level 5.

That's like..higher than I start on the Bone Horde challenge!

Just goes to show which one I actually complete more often, as I usually end up getting overzealous and getting myself killed on the Bone Horde one.

What level do you guys start at on the Lords of Ogredom challenge?

[Joddelle]

I start at five.
I think I start Bone Horde at 20-ish. I've only done it once or twice since Ogredom came out.

[shadowblack]

Thanks to Oldschool and thingirl for the texts! Rep'ed.

P.S.: Last time I started Ogredom at 10.

[Disco Soup]

Can anyone tell me where one finds the triangles for the bowl in the mossy tunnel?

[zmflavius]

I don't think any of the triangles can be found yet.

[Disco Soup]

Okay, so this isn't the "Blood Bowl" that has something to do with the Ogredom battles?

[zmflavius]

Yes, the blood bowl is deeply connected to The Lords of Ogredom, you just can't get the gems from the battles.

[smv1973]

This thread has been moved to the Replayable Scenarios section.

http://www.srythforum.com/showthread.php?t=82

[psychoadept]

Archery text:

You've successfully used your skill of Archery.

XP +8 You've been awarded a total of 8 Experience...
8 xp applied to Archery...

With blinding speed you draw your bow and notch an arrow, taking aim at an opening in Gollbrum's plate armour at the top of his left shoulder.

The ogre's eyes widen as your feathered shaft whistles through the air and embeds itself in his flesh.

He emits a painful grunt, but tears the arrow from his shoulder and casts the bloodied missile aside.

Despite having suffered a grievous wound, Gollbrum quickly regains his composure and adeptly engages you, cruelly wielding his massive, crimson-headed mallet.

[psychoadept]

When you get black orbs in Lords of Ogredom, would you post the level of the challenge and SP of the ogres it kills? I'm making a chart for each challenge.

Bone Horde is straightforward: starts at 39 SP and adds 4 at each level.

Ogredom is a little weirder with the multiple monsters on some levels, but it looks so far like it usually adds 6 SP.

[Hastifer]

When you get black orbs in Lords of Ogredom, would you post the level of the challenge and SP of the ogres it kills? I'm making a chart for each challenge.

Bone Horde is straightforward: starts at 39 SP and adds 4 at each level.

Ogredom is a little weirder with the multiple monsters on some levels, but it looks so far like it usually adds 6 SP.

LoO increases by 5 at some points, then 6 later on. And you're right the 5th level specials weird it up a bit.

Also, there is a page on the wiki with a chart for the 5th level ogres. So your work is already in progress. (It also includes the To Hit values for some of them).

I also have some data on the non-5th level ogres (in a chart, too) ... maybe I'll get that on the wiki in the near future, too...

Anyway, wiki link is here -- quest page for Lords of Ogredom (http://sryth.wikia.com/wiki/Quest:The_Lords_of_Ogredom). Be careful there's spoilers in there!

[Disco Soup]

So, yeah, I just got the bowl and the key. Cool nutz.

[psychoadept]

LoO increases by 5 at some points, then 6 later on. And you're right the 5th level specials weird it up a bit.

Also, there is a page on the wiki with a chart for the 5th level ogres. So your work is already in progress. (It also includes the To Hit values for some of them).

I also have some data on the non-5th level ogres (in a chart, too) ... maybe I'll get that on the wiki in the near future, too...

Anyway, wiki link is here -- quest page for Lords of Ogredom (http://sryth.wikia.com/wiki/Quest:The_Lords_of_Ogredom). Be careful there's spoilers in there!

Cool, cool. I'll merge my work with what's on the wiki.

[Joddelle]

Bone Horde is straightforward: starts at 39 SP and adds 4 at each level.

Bone Horde also starts at MR 36 and adds 1 at each level.

Or, put another way, Level Zero of Bone Horde is MR 35/SP 35, and each level adds 1 MR/4 SP

[psychoadept]

Bone Horde also starts at MR 36 and adds 1 at each level.

Or, put another way, Level Zero of Bone Horde is MR 35/SP 35, and each level adds 1 MR/4 SP

Did you just edit that on the Wiki? I swear it changed while I was in the process of going to add the information. lol.

[Joddelle]

Yes I did.

[scout1idf]

Scout got the ghost twice in the same challenge last night and failed both checks.

Talk about bad luck.

[Badstench]

Jodelle offered:
For anyone collecting such things, the named Ogres are:

Level 5: Charakar
Level 10: Ghirajaw
Level 15: Arkenarag
Level 20: Irth the Unbroken
Level 25: Zurogun Griffonslayer
Level 30: Togg Bloodmark
Level 35: Warhand the Savage
Level 40: Hagrummok
Level 45: Dythmerim the Destroyer
Level 50: Balgorom Stonelord
Level 55:
Level 60:

Since there are references to 12 ogres fighting the griffon, I wonder if anything special happens for someone that defeats all 12...

Happily for me, I was able to fill in the name of Balgorom Stonelord after a series of hard fought battles that saw me bow out at level 53.

I had taken my MR to 211. The ogre at level 153 was the first to turn black.

With Thordon the most accomplished character at level 55, I think someone's going to have to get very lucky or very powerful to reach level 60.

[Chareos]

Is this Gollbrum random or do I need to complete a certain number of runs after filling the bowl?

[thingirl]

He's random. I got him on the run after I filled the bowl, but some got him during the same run. Make sure you go through the level skip, and go through the fiery portal

[Oldschool]

Definitely random - or the corridor is at least. I haven't gotten the corridor with Esoteric even after several runs after having my bowl filled.

Also Voltan has made several successful runs after getting slain on his first run and still hasn't gotten the bowl period. I was going to "in-game" the GM but wanted to see if everyone has gotten it on their first run. My other three characters got it on their first runs, has it took anyone more than one successful run? I'm wondering if getting slain might have tripped something buggy with it?

Thanks in advance.

[zmflavius]

Jodelle offered:


Happily for me, I was able to fill in the name of Balgorom Stonelord after a series of hard fought battles that saw me bow out at level 53.

I had taken my MR to 211. The ogre at level 153 was the first to turn black.

With Thordon the most accomplished character at level 55, I think someone's going to have to get very lucky or very powerful to reach level 60.

Hopefully, reaching level 61 won't be a requisite for completing the bowl of blood.

[scout1idf]

If it is, Scout probably won't ever finish it.

Maybe I need to work on Ulric for a while and see what the Sword of Seven Flames can do.

Anyone try it on the challenge yet?
If so, please post your Weaponry and Slashing levels and the results with the sword.

[Joddelle]

I got the bowl filled on my first and second runs after getting it (I died after getting it filled on the first run after).

It took me many runs after that to see Gollbrum and the Key.

[Oldschool]

Shadowblack, here's some more text - finally :). Hopefully, Voltan will get there soon and I can post another but I've still not got the bowl for him. Got killed q'combating again when a special hit again. :rolleyes::o

Conjuration (8xp rec'd).

You fall back and assume a defensive stance, signaling to Gollbrum that you are prepared to engage him. The towering, armoured ogre grins and moves toward you, his heavy footfalls sending tremors through the floor beneath your feet.
Your timely and successful summoning of your power of conjuration catches the fearsome creature off guard.
A thin length of round wood instantly appears under the ogre's feet, causing him to slip and fall flat on his back with a resounding thud.
Wasting no time, you leap forward and strike your fallen foe a devastating blow.
Despite having suffered a grievous wound, Gollbrum quickly regains his composure and adeptly engages you, cruelly wielding his massive, crimson-headed mallet.

Also correct me if I'm wrong but you still need text for Illusion and Elementalism.

[shadowblack]

Yep, I'm still missing Illusion and Elementalism. Thanks for the Conjuration text. :)

[thingirl]

This is interesting, copied from the BHC leader board:
(rank) 43 (name) Alanne [thinman] (level attained) 119
I'm sort of bragging, bun not really. You see, before my last run, I was on 117. This run, I completed 118 and figured on fleeing during 119. I fled on 119, and my spot on the leader board was 119, not 118 as I thought it would. Has this happened to anyone else?

[spencer]

Which ever encounter you make it to, is what you get credit for...so if you made it to 119, and didn't even try to kill him, you still get credit for getting there.

[Mak]

You channel your power of elementalism and a sudden and frigid blast of gale-force wind slams into your unsuspecting foe, knocking the bulky ogre off his feet and landing him flat on his back with a resounding thud.

Wasting no time, you leap forward and strike your fallen foe a devastating blow.

Despite having suffered a grievous wound, Gollbrum quickly regains his composure and adeptly engages you, cruelly wielding his massive, crimson-headed mallet.

Using Elementalism for 8xp... hope this helps, Shadowblack.

[Mattman20]

1 minute ago Juanbonjonesy began The Bone Horde Challenge.
1 minute ago Juanbonjonesy caught an orb of destruction at level 1 of The Bone Horde Challenge.
1 minute ago Juanbonjonesy began The Bone Horde Challenge.

Anyone else see anything wrong here? :confused:

[Lamion]

Yep, I'm still missing Illusion and Elementalism. Thanks for the Conjuration text. :)


Your use of Elementalism has succeeded...

XP +8 You've been awarded a total of 8 Experience...
8 xp applied to Elementalism...

You channel your power of elementalism and a sudden and frigid blast of gale-force wind slams into your unsuspecting foe, knocking the bulky ogre off his feet and landing him flat on his back with a resounding thud.

Wasting no time, you leap forward and strike your fallen foe a devastating blow.

Despite having suffered a grievous wound, Gollbrum quickly regains his composure and adeptly engages you, cruelly wielding his massive, crimson-headed mallet.

[shadowblack]

Sadly, Mak already provided that text just two posts before yours. So now all I need is Illusion. But thanks anyway.

[Jesphulin]

I got the bowl after my first run through, turned to blood bowl on my second then got the key on my third.

I made it to at least level 33 on all three runs.

[thingirl]

1 minute ago Juanbonjonesy began The Bone Horde Challenge.
1 minute ago Juanbonjonesy caught an orb of destruction at level 1 of The Bone Horde Challenge.
1 minute ago Juanbonjonesy began The Bone Horde Challenge.

Anyone else see anything wrong here? :confused:

Yes, it should be "1 minute ago Juanbonjonesy completed level 1 of The Bone Horde Challenge."

[smv1973]

For anyone collecting such things, the named Ogres are:
Level 5: Charakar
Level 10: Ghirajaw
Level 15: Arkenarag
Level 20: Irth the Unbroken
Level 25: Zurogun Griffonslayer
Level 30: Togg Bloodmark
Level 35: Warhand the Savage
Level 40: Hagrummok
Level 45: Dythmerim the Destroyer
Level 50: Balgorom Stonelord
Level 55: Kendarugol Dreadspear
Level 60: Bluefang The Invincible

Since there are references to 12 ogres fighting the griffon, I wonder if anything special happens for someone that defeats all 12...

If any one wants to know the name of the ogre boss for level 55 here it is.
Level 55: Kendarugol Dreadspear

With a MR 223 he was red (+17 to hit) for me.

[thingirl]

This is not weird, but interesting. I started BHC at level 24. And got a healing sphere at level 24.

[scout1idf]

This is not weird, but interesting. I started BHC at level 24. And got a healing sphere at level 24.

That always seems like a waste.

[thingirl]

Sort of. But you do get 16 XP for each orb.
(Gaaah! Same thing just happened in Ogerdom.) 1 minute later... (And my Hale blade healed me and then I got another healing orb.)

[thingirl]

I Always DIE! And It's always to EXACTLY 0 SP. I tried both challenges today twice and died all 4 times.

[Elrond]

6 feet 6 inches on my first hurl of the "Breaker!" Looks like I'll have to try again as soon as I can.

My bonus per check was 190. How was it for others?

[solitu]

Like what Shadowblack said, the bonus is

Might *5, Body *3, Agility, Spirit, Luck *0.5

With some mg items, I guess almost everyone has 190 bonus.

[Mattman20]

A towering statue of Thordon [smv1973] stands in the centre of the gallery. 14 life-size statues of Bounty Hunter [BountyHunter], Judge Fury [Badstench], Elendil [Theodril], Garet Jax [dhammett], Nathair Ap Dubh [Makhazarhael], MacFarlane [Holden], Rommel [rangerlord], Magical [havoc], Apellon [mlzh], Joddelle [rgutzmer], Trent [racey], Tanaka Khan [Carior], Spencer Lionking [Durgin], and BillyDaKid [BillyDakid] stand on the right side of the gallery.

Um, why aren't any statues on the left side anymore?

[thingirl]

IDK, maybe it's supposed to be BCH on the right and Ogerdom on the left. Which brings up the better point, why isn't there a distinction between BHC and Ogerdom?

[Oldschool]

Just "in-gamed" the GM as Voltan has successfully ran Ogredom several times and still hasn't gotten the Iron Engraved Bowl as I'm unsure if it's an automatic on the first run or random.

@ Shadowblack are you still needing the text for Illusion? If so, when and if I get Voltan through I'll post it providing he has NR remaining.

[Mattman20]

IDK, maybe it's supposed to be BCH on the right and Ogerdom on the left. Which brings up the better point, why isn't there a distinction between BHC and Ogerdom?

I haven't looked at the leaderboards to try and confirm this, but I was thinking it probably just takes some sort of average ranking between all the challenges, which determines whether you end up having a statue (being in the top ranks) or not. And I'm sure if that's the case there is probably special weighting given to each challenge based on difficulty and such. Or maybe that's not it at all.


Post-script: I'm not sure if this has been established or not, but you don't have to actually live through a challenge to get up to a higher starting level. I died around 120-ish on the BHC last night and started that challenge at level 5, and I just started the challenge again today and I'm starting at level 6.

[thingirl]

Not to be rude or anything, but his question was "Why aren't there statues on the left side?", not "How do you get a statue?".

[zmflavius]

Not to be rude or anything, but his question was "Why aren't there statues on the left side?", not "How do you get a statue?".

by proving yourself a mighty warrior in the Bone Horde or among the lords of ogredom, aka, being able to get to the upper 40s or 50s of Ogredom and probably the upper hundreds of Bone Horde.

[thingirl]

by proving yourself a mighty warrior in the Bone Horde or among the lords of ogredom, aka, being able to get to the upper 40s or 50s of Ogredom and probably the upper hundreds of Bone Horde.
Umm, that doesn't make any sense. The post does, but the conversation doesn't.

[Mattman20]

Not to be rude or anything, but his question was "Why aren't there statues on the left side?", not "How do you get a statue?".

Also not to be rude, but uh, I'm the one that asked that question in the first place annnnd I was replying to your comment about why there aren't different statues for each challenge.

[Oldschool]

Post-script: I'm not sure if this has been established or not, but you don't have to actually live through a challenge to get up to a higher starting level. I died around 120-ish on the BHC last night and started that challenge at level 5, and I just started the challenge again today and I'm starting at level 6.

I don't think it has been. Either way, thanks for posting, as I've been wondering about that exact thing.

[Mattman20]

I don't think it has been. Either way, thanks for posting, as I've been wondering about that exact thing.

No problem, but now the question still stands (at least I think so), how does the game determine what level you start at?

[shadowblack]

Just "in-gamed" the GM as Voltan has successfully ran Ogredom several times and still hasn't gotten the Iron Engraved Bowl as I'm unsure if it's an automatic on the first run or random.

@ Shadowblack are you still needing the text for Illusion? If so, when and if I get Voltan through I'll post it providing he has NR remaining.
Yes, no one has posted the Illusion text yet.

[thingirl]

Also not to be rude, but uh, I'm the one that asked that question in the first place annnnd I was replying to your comment about why there aren't different statues for each challenge.

Sorry, It was 9:30 and I had had a long day, so I wasn't paying much attention:o I have GOT to stop posting when I'm tired.

[zmflavius]

whatever. I officially now wash my hands of this weirdness (the conversation).

[Hastifer]

No problem, but now the question still stands (at least I think so), how does the game determine what level you start at?

I think it is one level lower than the first level in which you got injured (or used NV) on your last Attempt.

For example, if you use NV (or get hit) on level 6, you'll start your next Attempt on level 5.

That's my current theory, and seems to be holding true for Arken. I've yet to get a Starting Level equal to or greater than one in which he's been injured -- even if the Hale Blade 'fixed' it during combat.

[Almathea]

Does anyone know what this is supposed to augur?

"A fierce, ravaging wind tears through the courtyard."

Right after I copied it, it changed back to:

"A gentle breeze drifts through the courtyard."

I had often noticed the text about the gentle breeze, but this was the first time I'd seen the one about a ravaging wind.

[psychoadept]

I've been trying to figure out the significance of the wind text since the battlegrounds opened. Haven't sussed it yet...

[thingirl]

I think that it's either flavor text or it's supposed to be a measure of difficulty.

[Mattman20]

So I've decided that I'm gonna try to do each of Zumryn's challenges (minus the stone hurl [or lob for some, won't mention names oldschool ;)]) completely and utterly naked. This is bound to end pretty badly...

Naked Stats: MR - 103 // SP - 31 // NV - 10

Wow..

[Chareos]

Ouch you are a braver man than me Mattman, mind you they used to say that fighting 'Skyclad' would frighten your enemies so maybe you will get some MR bonuses lol

[Mattman20]

Well here's a hint at my progress so far..

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/4553/screenshot4.th.png (http://img182.imageshack.us/i/screenshot4.png/)

..the going is slow because I refuse to quick combat these buggers whilst clad in my birthday suit, but that black orb got me up to level 34.

EDIT: 1 minute ago Ehrmlyn met a gruesome fate at level 50 of The Bone Horde Challenge.

Well that stinks, I hadn't even used half of my (whopping 10) NV.

[thingirl]

It takes a brave man. And a repped one.

[psychoadept]

I'm suddenly having a mental image of the battlegrounds turning into a nudist colony. It'll never happen, of course...

[Mattman20]

I'm suddenly having a mental image of the battlegrounds turning into a nudist colony. It'll never happen, of course...

Only in my dreams... and thanks for the rep!

It takes a brave man. And a repped one.

Thanks, also, for the rep! And I wouldn't say I'm dumb.. just bored with the routine battleground grind.

[thingirl]

I said SLIGHTLY dumb. And I think that Alanne will try that tomorrow (although she will wear a dress {and that might hurt her more}). Hey, did you do Ogerdom? You might be able to laugh them to death.

[Mattman20]

Well if you do attempt it, be sure to join the social group I created just for that very deed! :cool:
And I'm about to try Ogredom right now, actually.
They use their specials much more often though, so it might not be very long-lived.

UPDATE: Hahaha
1 minute ago Ehrmlyn met a gruesome fate at level 5 of The Lords of Ogredom.
I start at level 5!
I tried to take a screenshot but it didn't work; suffice it to say I had a max of 31 SP and I was hit with a total of 35 dmg in one round. Ouch.

[Hastifer]

Just tried to enter the Challenges with two pretty much uninitiated characters.

I found out the hard way that they hadn't even completed the Caves at Westwold.

Which, it turns out, is a prerequisite for the Battlegrounds. You can't even pay the entry fee until you've done that quest.

[thingirl]

Alright, heregoes. MR:83 SP:38 NV:15 I start at level 24.

[thingirl]

1 minute ago Alanne met a gruesome fate at level 36 of The Bone Horde Challenge.

And here's proof that I did it.

[thingirl]

On to Ogerdom. (this shouldn't take long).

Edit: WOOOHOOO. I beat level 5.

[thingirl]

1 minute ago Alanne met a gruesome fate at level 6 of The Lords of Ogredom.
2 minute ago Alanne completed level 5 of The Lords of Ogredom.
3 minute ago Alanne began The Lords of Ogredom.

Thumbnail.

[Mattman20]

That is...awesome haha have a rep for not letting me be the only fool to do that :)

[thingirl]

Thank you. You're right, were both fools. At least I'm the fool who beat level 5 in Ogerdom.

(Wanna go the Mickey D's, JK!:p)

[psychoadept]

Thank you. You're right, were both fools. At least I'm the fool who beat level 5 in Ogerdom.

*sigh* I had to try it.

1 minute ago Xarantiroth met a gruesome fate at level 53 of The Bone Horde Challenge.

And I was trying to be careful, too...

[paladin]

Well Marissa finally attempted Lords of Ogredom. GOt the OGre's ghost on my first run, so I went to the tunnel for a bit of Carnage Crawler murder. Got the bowl and went back for my second run a few hours later. Got the bowl filled and also got the key in that same run, made it up to level 36. I certainly hope completing this challenge, if indeed such a thing is possible, isn't absolutely required to get all the gemstones. Marissa's got an MR of 167 and SP of 184 and NVR of 35. I had to use most of my Summoning Stone (I forgot the spelling of the mage's name) just to make it that far. That last ogre came pretty close to killing me, and so far I haven't actually been killed during this challenge. Kinda like to keep it that way.

[thingirl]

*sigh* I had to try it.

1 minute ago Xarantiroth met a gruesome fate at level 53 of The Bone Horde Challenge.

And I was trying to be careful, too...

Welcome to the club! Literally, there's a social group (http://www.srythforum.com/group.php?groupid=10).

[psychoadept]

Welcome to the club! Literally, there's a social group (http://www.srythforum.com/group.php?groupid=10).

Ha, thanks! The venture into Lords of Ogredom was actually rather impressive, thanks in part to the fact I started at Level 7. I actually managed to get to Level 13, by virtue of a well-timed black orb, Wand, and some Necromancy. I have screenshots but they're on my computer at work, so I can't post them until at least Monday.

[Havoc]

The text for illusion:

You call upon your power of illusion and expertly craft the flawless likeness of an armoured human moving up from Gollbrum's left.

The towering ogre grunts his disapproval and turns to confront what he suspects is an imminent attack.

Wasting no time, you leap forward and strike your preoccupied foe a devastating blow.

Despite having suffered a grievous wound, Gollbrum quickly regains his composure and adeptly engages you, cruelly wielding his massive, crimson-headed mallet.

[shadowblack]

Thanks! Now I have all texts.

Let's see when the new update will become available...

[paladin]

Well Marissa got killed for the first time in Ogredom a short while ago. Managed to make it to level 37 after starting at level 5. Of course by 37 all my opponents "could probably crush you with a single blow." Used up all the rest of my Summon Stones, all three QS 20s, most of my NVR and one QS heal. Didn't get the chance to use the other one because I got careless. I only hope that accessing the new update won't require getting to level 50 because at the moment even forty might be out of Marissa's range. Ah wel, I suppose I could always go beat up on Zarrakh for a fresh set of onyx bands for my Finger...

[notnale]

Pardon the possibly dumb question,
but I've completed both the Bone Horde and Lords Of Ogredom more than once, and only my first scores are kept on the leaderboard.

I reached level 119 on Bone Horde (several days ago), saved my game, but it still shows my old score of 102.

And with Ogredom I reached 34, saved my game, and it still shows level 20 as my max.

I sent email to GM but no response. Am I missing something here? If were like the SATs and they *averaged* my scores that would be better than ignoring my newest, best score. :P

[thingirl]

That's weird. No all runs get recorded, and the highest run is displayed on the leader board. Did you get killed? I'm not sure if it get recorded if you die, (but I don't think it does). Make sure you wait a few minutes. What's this character's name? I want to know so that I can look him/her up on the leader boards.

(You could be brave/slightly crazy/insane and go through wearing no armor or weapon [if you do, then you can join the social group]).

[paladin]

I think Marissa's gonna keep her clothes on. Me, I'm curious if the temple is in fact going to go live today. I think I'll wait to attempt the challenge again until I have more bands for my Finger. As I said I got killed at level 37 this last time.

[thingirl]

It's probably going to go live around midnight EDT. I mean, that's when most updates go live.

[Lamion]

Through only the sheer might of your will you manage to reach the apparition's outstretched hand. The moment your fingers plunge into the ghostly glow, you're overcome by a powerful draining sensation...

XP +2,048 You've been awarded a total of 2,048 Experience...
2,048 xp applied to general...

XP +512 You've been awarded 512 Experience...
512 xp applied to All Skills and Powers...

Suddenly, the sensation subsides and the young woman's ghost rapidly fades from view.

Finally! This is only the second time I've ever succeeded with that blasted ghost. It's nice to get a decent reward for it!

[paladin]

Does she show up on Ogredom? The only place I've ever seen her is in the Bone Hoard. I don't even remember how far I got on that challenge but it was into the hundreds. That much I do remember. I did it thanks to one of Luridor's stones and a full compliment of QS 20s and heals.

[Badstench]

Just completed the new event in the Ogre challenge and obtained the first blood-red gem.... but I won't post anything about it because Judge Fury had a heck of a hard time and, though he obtained the gem, the excursion ended in complete disaster and the loss of a rune of life!

Believe me... I'm gutted!

[Chareos]

Ouch! Sorry about that Bad. I was going to have a go at it now but the missus has just informed me that we NEED to wallpaper the spare bedroom right now, and seeing her wifely powers are much higher than mine I am going to have to comply ;-)

[Ka keng]

So, any hints?

EDIT: i did my current run and found nothing out of the ordinary. Out of curiosity, what level were you at when the challenge appeared?

[Badstench]

No big hints to give... it was tough for Judge Fury because of circumstance: I gained access to the temple at level 50 of the ogre challenge. By then, I'd drained both my QS restores and used all my blessings, so I had no reserves to call on when I exited the temple and was gated to level 53. I had to fight at least 1 melee round before I could flee... I died.

But I can offer the following:
Characters will have to make at least 6 successful saving throws to proceed through the temple. Failure at any time can result in massive loss of sp. Unfortunately, nv points are drained near the beginning of the temple, so restoration spells are not available.

[Mattman20]

I also think that the more skill checks you complete, the higher your xp reward at the end. At least at the end it comments on how many you successfully completed, so that leads me to (albeit dangerously) assume.

Btw, I encountered it on level 6, which is but a single level after I started.

[solitu]

Cost me 2 elixirs to clear all the snares... I cursed and cursed. Wondering if I should use them next time:mad: (There will be a "next time," right?:confused:)
Rewards:
The Bowl of Blood is now adorned with 1 of the twelve gems that fit into the sockets on its outer rim.

And, perhaps most important of all, you escaped from the Silent Temple of Skargokk with your life.

You successfully conquered 18 of the 18 snares in Skargokk's lair. Well done!

XP +1,152 You've been awarded a total of 1,152 Experience...
1,152 xp applied to general...

XP +288 You've been awarded 288 Experience...
288 xp applied to All Skills and Powers...

The recent adventures in Sryth are so luck-dependent... which drove an unlucky person like me a little dizzy.

[thingirl]

Like your Avatar? I don't have time to do Ogerdom right now, so I'll do it after Church.

[solitu]

Like your Avatar?

Ahh! Now that you mention it, I suddenly realize *BANG* that might *BANG* be one *BANG* of *BANG* the *BANG**BANG* reasons...*BANG*....

[zmflavius]

I got greedy and tried to complete every snare...well, at least I didn't lose a rune of life.

[Oldschool]

Well considering the apparent randomness of the new event and the fact that we need an even dozen gems - I think I know what a lot of us will be doing for awhile. That's even if the other eleven are found in this way.

I just ran two secondaries through having to flee at levels 31 and 32 and no hide nor hair of the temple. My third secondary has yet to get the Engraved Iron Bowl. I've notified the GM as I'm still unsure if it's an automatic drop on run one - buy from my other three characters and other posts here it seems to be that way. So I can't run him looking for the jewel yet.

Waiting to run Hawk. Since it seems random I'm trying to decide whether to use my quickstone heals while looking for it or exit keeping them intact in the hopes I find it on a following run. Thereby having it for use during the new scenario. Especially ponderous since I may or may not get another run in before the quickstone reset. Maybe I'll be fortunate like Mattman and get it early and won't have to make that decision.

EDIT:

Well I exited with my quickstone heals intact for hopefully another run before the server reset. However, with both me and my foe with slivers, mind you slivers, of SP remaining.......

1 minute ago Hawk met a gruesome fate at level 36 of The Lords of Ogredom.

Confounded TWO round BoP's....... :mad:

Well at least an RoL wasn't vaporized.

[paladin]

The bowl isn't actually found in the challenge. At some point you'll meet someone who'll tell you where to go to find it. Then once you've been there you can return to the challenge. You'll meet the same being who'll tell you more about it. Then if you keep going you may encounter someone who'll have another necessary object for you to earn. Remember though, all this apears randomly. I myself had my first taste of the temple yesterday but got killed by the snares. Since then I haven't been able to encounter it again.

[thingirl]

Well considering the apparent randomness of the new event and the fact that we need an even dozen gems - I think I know what a lot of us will be doing for awhile. That's even if the other eleven are found in this way.

Actually, Teek has two of them. So you can find 10 max in the temple. And I suspect that you can only find 1 gem in the temple, with the other 11 found on NPCs. Well, off to do the challenge!

[Lamion]

Does she show up on Ogredom? The only place I've ever seen her is in the Bone Hoard. I don't even remember how far I got on that challenge but it was into the hundreds. That much I do remember. I did it thanks to one of Luridor's stones and a full compliment of QS 20s and heals.

Sorry, I should have been specific. The ghost I got was encountered in the Bone Hoard.

[zmflavius]

Ran the temple because I failed the first, and noticed something. There now was a minimum of 8 traps I had to bypass. Then, I blundered taking the gem, so now I'm facing an 18+ with no NV. I used my wand of dragonfire, and guess what! The bloody thing depleted only a third of the monster's hp. So I'm out of wand, finger, BoP, and Quickstone 20s, waiting for the finger to "regain its might" while that demon still has 18% hp.

[racey]

Actually, Teek has two of them. So you can find 10 max in the temple. And I suspect that you can only find 1 gem in the temple, with the other 11 found on NPCs. Well, off to do the challenge!

I just finished the Temple for a second time. I did in fact get a second gem by going through the red door.

Congratulations, Trent!

The Bowl of Blood is now adorned with 2 of the twelve gems that fit into the sockets on its outer rim.

And, perhaps most important of all, you escaped from the Silent Temple of Skargokk with your life.

You successfully conquered 18 of the 18 snares in Skargokk's lair. Well done!

XP +1,152 You've been awarded a total of 1,152 Experience...
1,152 xp applied to general...

XP +288 You've been awarded 288 Experience...
288 xp applied to All Skills and Powers...


Congratulations, Trent!

The Bowl of Blood is now adorned with 3 of the twelve gems that fit into the sockets on its outer rim.

And, perhaps most important of all, you escaped from the Silent Temple of Skargokk with your life.

You successfully conquered 18 of the 18 snares in Skargokk's lair. Well done!

XP +1,152 You've been awarded a total of 1,152 Experience...
1,152 xp applied to general...

XP +288 You've been awarded 288 Experience...
288 xp applied to All Skills and Powers...

[zmflavius]

I just finished the Temple for a second time. I did in fact get a second gem by going through the red door.

Congratulations, Trent!

The Bowl of Blood is now adorned with 2 of the twelve gems that fit into the sockets on its outer rim.

And, perhaps most important of all, you escaped from the Silent Temple of Skargokk with your life.

You successfully conquered 18 of the 18 snares in Skargokk's lair. Well done!

XP +1,152 You've been awarded a total of 1,152 Experience...
1,152 xp applied to general...

XP +288 You've been awarded 288 Experience...
288 xp applied to All Skills and Powers...

Still, it may be possible that Teek visited the Temple twice, so even if we complete the temple 12 times, we'll still have only 10 gems.

[racey]

Still, it may be possible that Teek visited the Temple twice, so even if we complete the temple 12 times, we'll still have only 10 gems.

I agree. Thingirl stated that she didn't think we would get more than 1 gem from the Temple. I posted to show everyone that apparently there will be more than one run through the Silent Temple to get gems for our bowls. Teek has two of them so I'm guessing that there will be ten runs to get the other ten gems.

[thingirl]

FINE! But I still agree that you can only get 10 gems from the temple (which I haven't gotten, I've been busy all day) because Teek has 2.

[Oldschool]

The bowl isn't actually found in the challenge. At some point you'll meet someone who'll tell you where to go to find it. Then once you've been there you can return to the challenge. You'll meet the same being who'll tell you more about it. Then if you keep going you may encounter someone who'll have another necessary object for you to earn. Remember though, all this apears randomly. I myself had my first taste of the temple yesterday but got killed by the snares. Since then I haven't been able to encounter it again.

Thanks stand repped. Considering that this was my fourth character to run through I should've realized that. I could spew out some baloney about not getting the text setting up the tunnel and Stonevale not being available - but since I just checked and Stonevale is available...... Actually I don't recall getting the text on the run where I got him killed or on subsequent runs. Either way I definitely didn't think to go look for Stonevale. :o

Boy oh boy...... New forum, same UNhealthy appetite for crow. Scout you can hold the mustard this time and if things continue at this rate I'll be dining on it raw, feathers and all. Considering I "in-gamed" and emailed the GM (I sent a follow-up "letter" of embarrassed apology) this definitely tops the Yirssin incident. :o Considering that perhaps he would let me rename one of my secondaries Corvus (the "crow" genus).

[Chareos]

Lol at least you are sorted now Oldschool :-) I am glad I am not the only one with a dysfunctional memory :-) Did you want salt and pepper too? ;-)

[billydakid]

Ok guys how are you finding the temple?. I've run the challenge 3 or 4 times and have yet to find the temple. Oh and yes I have the bowl of blood and the key. some help would be really great. Thanks.

[racey]

Ok guys how are you finding the temple?. I've run the challenge 3 or 4 times and have yet to find the temple. Oh and yes I have the bowl of blood and the key. some help would be really great. Thanks.

You have to step into any portal that opens up. After you navigate the tunnel you will have the option to investigate a red door.

[thingirl]

In this post, I will write down (in the spoilers) the text from the temple.

The broad passage ends abruptly and you find yourself facing a swirling black portal hovering silently against the wall to the east.

Suddenly, the blood-red stone key in your possession begins to glow. You remove the key from amongt your belongings and immediately a red stone door appears against the wall, right next to the swirling portal.

* Step into the swirling black portal...

* Examine the red stone door...

* Head back west...
Choose the red door.

You step forward to examine the red stone door and it suddenly swings outward, revealing a dark void beyond its threshold.

Before you can step back, a powerful, invisible force draws you swiftly through the door and into the inky darkness...
-----
The impenetrable darkness that surrounds you rapidly melts away, leaving you to gaze upon your new and unpleasant surroundings.

Your first glance tells you, without any doubt, that you are now in the Silent Temple -- the deadly lair of the ogre deity known as Skargokk Skargokk the Silent

This powerful entity of legend, worshipped by some ogre clans, is thought to be a greater demon in the service of Joloreth.

It is believed that the immortal Skargokk resides in a temple built in his honour, somewhere deep in the Neverness.

Known as the Silent Temple, it is said that no sound exists within the walls of the demon's sinister sanctum..
-----
Long torches, affixed to the wall at irregular intervals, provide the dim, flickering light that fills the silent passages of this temple. The torchlight reveals intricate engravings on the walls that depict ogres bowing before a large, ogre-headed serpent.

You vow to remain on your guard as you explore this quiet, mysterious lair.
-----
A strange sensation suddenly passes through you, leaving you breathless, drained, and weary...
After that, you get dropped in a "mapped dungeon" and all your NV is drained.
Long torches, affixed to the wall at irregular intervals, provide the dim, flickering light that fills the silent passages of this temple. The torchlight reveals intricate engravings on the walls that depict ogres bowing before a large, ogre-headed serpent.

You vow to remain on your guard as you explore this quiet, mysterious lair.

Snares: There are several variations on the snares, all of which require a random number (1-100) check. The bonuses are different for all of them, but you do get 8 or 16 or 32 (?) general XP for succeeding a roll, and loose allot of stamina if you fail.

GAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!! I DIED!!! :mad:

[billydakid]

Ok thanks so in other words i need to go through one of the portals where we have the view of the map. grr I haven't gotten any of those lately during my lords battles only getting orbs no portal hole tunnels lately grr.

[thingirl]

Yes, I mean no?

You go through the "same" portal you go through to get the key. Then you chose the red door. And try not to die.

[billydakid]

ok got it. hmm still haven't gotten that scene yet hope I don't have to hit lvl 50 to get it I can get to like 42 but not fifty.

[Disco Soup]

I need to fill the sockets of the bowl, don't I? Man, I made it all the way through the temple! How do I get stones for it?
EDIT: I'm an idiot. PS, anyone know where to find Teek?

[billydakid]

Darn I finally get in the temple and I died now I have to wait till reset to try again grr.

[Hastifer]

Too bad it isn't a "marked location" like in the explorable areas.

Pure genius, actually. It's the only thing keeping me out of Tarn right now (well that combined with a slow connection makes it hard to do more than one "run" of anything per day)

[smv1973]

I need to fill the sockets of the bowl, don't I? Man, I made it all the way through the temple! How do I get stones for it?
EDIT: I'm an idiot. PS, anyone know where to find Teek?

Go talk to your friend's in the Silver Crest.

[billydakid]

dang died again it really bites we can't use our quick stone heals to get by the dang traps. I guess next time i'll have to take some ilixors

[Elrond]

I made it through my 2nd temple run and got the 2nd gem with some drama. I failed the last check, got the gem, and fought Skar***. I QC'ed him in 36 rounds! Wimp!

[psychoadept]

Huh. I thought the snares weren't too bad. So I guess you get a better reward if you get rid of all of them, even though you don't need to?

[smv1973]

I made it through my 2nd temple run and got the 2nd gem with some drama. I failed the last check, got the gem, and fought Skar***. I QC'ed him in 36 rounds! Wimp!

Do you recall what you got for total exp for the combat? I failed the check to get my #3 gem and got almost 600 total exp for the combat.

[shadowblack]

I found the temple for the first time... and got killed because I got greedy and wanted to get all snares.

Interesting fact:
The snares are COMPLETELY random! If you fail to pass one the next time you try it might be a completely different snare at that same location.

[billydakid]

oh i was trying to get them all we don't have to hey. hmm ok lets see what happens in 48 minutes.

[paladin]

This is really starting to make me angry. I got to the temple once on Saturday but got killed by the snares. Since then I haven't found it even once. And the really infuriating part is that I'm only strong enough SP and MR wise to make it to level 37 or so with any consistency. Gur'r'r'r'r'r'r'r'r!

[psychoadept]

*Only* level 37? With my best guy (who is #65 in adventurer rank), level 38 is black for me. I'd be happy to make it to 37 consistently...

[psychoadept]

How many pulses are you guys getting from the black orbs? This is the second time I've gotten one with 8 pulses...

[paladin]

Well I've only successfully gnabbed two of them. One had three and the other six or seven. Now if only they'd shown up when they were actually needed, but alas they showed up almost right away both times. Must...suppress...murderous rage...

[zmflavius]

I once got one with only 2 pulses.

[racey]

Trent just lost gem #4 and gem #5 from one run through the Ogres. He picked up gem #4 and had to use everything but 1 BoP to beat the baddie when he failed the check. Exited the Temple went a few rounds grabbed a blue orb and found the Temple again. He then cleared enough snares to enter the room and luckily pass the check to grab the gem and hightail it out the door. Unforunately for him this put him right at level forty. Here is where I screwed him with my greed. I figured he had 40 some sp right now he can face the world. Right? Not so fast. I assumed that I could engage one gaurdian ogre. Use my last BoP if I need to and flee. Therefore getting credit for reaching level 40. Problem was/is once you engage those gaurdians you CANNOT flee. Trent defeated the first one using his last BoP and promptly got killed on his first swing versus the second one. I guess the moral of the story is I'm not too bright!

[zmflavius]

Trent just lost gem #4 and gem #5 from one run through the Ogres. He picked up gem #4 and had to use everything but 1 BoP to beat the baddie when he failed the check. Exited the Temple went a few rounds grabbed a blue orb and found the Temple again. He then cleared enough snares to enter the room and luckily pass the check to grab the jem and hightail it out the door. Unforunately for him this put him right at level forty. Here is where I screwed him with my greed. I figured he had 40 some xp right now he can face the world. Right? Not so fast. I assumed that I could engage one gaurdian ogre. Use my last BoP if I need to and flee. Therefore getting credit for reaching level 40. Problem was/is once you engage those gaurdians you CANNOT flee. Trent defeated the first one using his last BoP and promptly got killed on his first swing versus the second one. I guess the moral of the story is I'm not too bright!

Damn...especially since you lost two gems...

oh, and I was just thinking, has anyone wondered if maybe the 12th lord whom you probably fight on lvl 60 is maybe Gollbrum, but like 20 times harder?

[paladin]

Well then it doesn't look like I'll be getting all the gems what with Marissa having an MR of just 167. It's hard enough getting to level 40, and I don't even manage that with any consistency. And then of course there's the fact that your NVR is completely drained when you enter the temple, which I might add I haven't found even once since my initial failed visit. As for the ogre lords, if there are twelve of them at every fifth level I think you're right. It probably would be at level 60. unless my calculations are off.

[scout1idf]

Scout's first gem.

Congratulations, SCOUT!
The Bowl of Blood is now adorned with 1 of the twelve gems that fit into the sockets on its outer rim.
And, perhaps most important of all, you escaped from the Silent Temple of Skargokk (http://javascript%3Cb%3E%3C/b%3E:OpenInfoWindow%28%27skargokk%27%29;) with your life.
You successfully conquered 6 of the 18 snares in Skargokk's lair. Well done!

XP +384 You've been awarded a total of 384 Experience...
384 xp applied to general...


XP +96 You've been awarded 96 Experience...
96 xp applied to All Skills and Powers...

[shadowblack]

Just a note: I start at level 10 and yesterday, as soon as I started the challenge, I encountered the level-skip portal. I didn't have to fight a single battle to find it. So even someone like me (MR 163), for whom anything past level 30 is good, can find the temple.

[scout1idf]

Just a note: I start at level 10 and yesterday, as soon as I started the challenge, I encountered the level-skip portal. I didn't have to fight a single battle to find it. So even someone like me (MR 163), for whom anything past level 30 is good, can find the temple.
I also think that the more skill checks you complete, the higher your xp reward at the end. At least at the end it comments on how many you successfully completed, so that leads me to (albeit dangerously) assume.

Btw, I encountered it on level 6, which is but a single level after I started.

I thought that I would point out Mattman20's post as well that he encountered it at level 6.

Scout's encounter was around level 21 or 22. He started on level 5.

[shadowblack]

Then I guess I am the luckies so far, as far as finding the temple goes - I start at level 10 and found it at level 10.

[Chareos]

Hmmm Just got to level 35 and no sign of a portal :-(

[shadowblack]

After just 2 or 3 rounds I got another portal. Naturally, I got killed because I insisted on passing all snares. But I'm in no rush, and the experience is just too good to pass up.

[Ka keng]

Meanwhile, I slog away with nio temple in sight and a dwindling amount of free time.Looks like I wont be seeing any gems soon.

[Chareos]

Hmmm next run to level 36 and still no sign of a portal???

[Hastifer]

Yay, Arken's first gem.

Congratulations, Arken!
The Bowl of Blood is now adorned with 1 of the twelve gems that fit into the sockets on its outer rim.
And, perhaps most important of all, you escaped from the Silent Temple of Skargokk (http://javascript%3Cb%3E%3C/b%3E:OpenInfoWindow%28%27skargokk%27%29;) with your life.
You successfully conquered 11 of the 18 snares in Skargokk's lair. Well done!

XP +704 You've been awarded a total of 704 Experience...
704 xp applied to general...


XP +176 You've been awarded 176 Experience...
176 xp applied to All Skills and Powers...

So it appears that the xp reward is 64 general, 16 AS&P per snare you defeat.

Arken's near death experience:

Got through the 11th snare before having the bright idea that "hey, maybe I can just leave without finishing them all."

Of course the gem itself required the check (which I barely passed). So, got the gem, the great xp, and survived the temple.

Then skipped three levels of the challenge to 15 (can't flee!), with 12 sp.

Luckily I remembered that I still had some BoP & a QS left, so finished Arkenarag (is he named after Arken?) and exited the challenge.

Then all instincts screamed SAVE SAVE SAVE!


Too bad you can't USE the hale blade to heal with...

[Hastifer]

Oh, so I got the random encounter for the silent temple at level 12. So its totally random on what level you get the silent temple. (As we suspected, I think)

[zmflavius]

well, that is kind of evident since it's a 100% encounter only if you get the portal (which is random).

edit: never mind, I just got the portal, but for some reason, there was no red stone door.

[Ted]

Yesterday morning I ran through and on my first attempt found the portal. Went in made it through to the end, decided to fight, Died, and now after 5 further attempts can't find that portal for nothing. Sometimes I just hate random chance.

[spencer]

What is the highest number of gems to date? I have six, so far, so I guess four more temple runs and then wait for Teek to return.

[zmflavius]

Or another long wait just like the one for Jirin-Nol's final form.

[paladin]

As for me, I'll be happy just to finally! find the temple again, get through it alive and start collecting gems, let alone neutralizing all the snares. I only wish I hadn't had to use up all my Kepbekk elixirs! On a somewhat happier note I finally! managed to pass level 40 of Ogredom, but that was probably only due to a fully loaded finger, the wand, two QS heals, a full compliment of 20s and some timely Necromancy use.

[Chareos]

A record for me, three runs through the Ogres in one day, levels 35, 36 and 34 still no sign of a *************** portal to the temple! bah!!!

[paladin]

I'll be surprised if I pass 40 again but I suppose we'll see. I suppose I ought to go to Tarramyre and beat up on Xarakk for some more bands before I try Ogredom again. All I know for sure is if I don't find the temple again soon I'm gonna...well I don't know what I'll do.

[Elrond]

Do you recall what you got for total exp for the combat? I failed the check to get my #3 gem and got almost 600 total exp for the combat.

I don't remember the exact reward; but 600 total xp sounds about right.

[smv1973]

What is the highest number of gems to date? I have six, so far, so I guess four more temple runs and then wait for Teek to return.

I have 8 gems as of right now.

[zmflavius]

i have 8 gems as of right now.

arrrggghhhhh!!!!!

[Elrond]

Dang! I was up to lvl 52 in the challenge without access to the temple!

[Joddelle]

I just now got to 46 without finding the temple.

[billydakid]

I only have 2 gems 3 runs today and no temple grrr.

[thingirl]

I haven't had time to do Ogerdom. But yesterday, I found the temple, but died. I did one additional run, got up to level 28 and had to quit (no temple).

[paladin]

From the sounds of things it would appear that I'm not the only one getting frustrated with this business.

[zmflavius]

From the sounds of things it would appear that I'm not the only one getting frustrated with this business.

you can say that again. I've only gotten three gems because of a combination of my abominable luck and the long reset time (I don't get to play very much).

[Mattman20]

Yeah, I've only found the temple twice. Luckily I survived it and was able to bow out of the challenge in time to keep the gems I got. I decided to stop running it in my NV-heavy gear since it only helps me get up about four more levels or so tops.

On a side note, what should I do in this situation:

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3267/screenshot5i.th.png (http://img148.imageshack.us/i/screenshot5i.png/)

[zmflavius]

Yeah, I've only found the temple twice. Luckily I survived it and was able to bow out of the challenge in time to keep the gems I got. I decided to stop running it in my NV-heavy gear since it only helps me get up about four more levels or so tops.

On a side note, what should I do in this situation:

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3267/screenshot5i.th.png (http://img148.imageshack.us/i/screenshot5i.png/)

QS heal? Finger of Dread? Wand of Dragonfire?

edit: or perhaps a BoP?

[smv1973]

Yeah, I've only found the temple twice. Luckily I survived it and was able to bow out of the challenge in time to keep the gems I got. I decided to stop running it in my NV-heavy gear since it only helps me get up about four more levels or so tops.

On a side note, what should I do in this situation:

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3267/screenshot5i.th.png (http://img148.imageshack.us/i/screenshot5i.png/)

Use a BoP and flee. That is what I would do.

[Mattman20]

Sorry, I forgot to mention that I don't have any more fingers, and I used the wand earlier on in the challenge. I also perpetually forget to buy more blessings, so I've got none of those either.

On another side note, if I was able to use the finger, I wonder how the game solves "ties," because it would invariably kill us both.

[smv1973]

Sorry, I forgot to mention that I don't have any more fingers, and I used the wand earlier on in the challenge. I also perpetually forget to buy more blessings, so I've got none of those either.

On another side note, if I was able to use the finger, I wonder how the game solves "ties," because it would invariably kill us both.

What about a QS heal?

[zmflavius]

also, the wand regenerates after like an hour or so, correct?

[Mattman20]

Jeez, I don't have any QS heals either, sorry again! :o
I'm not on my game tonight, I'm too pumped about this Harry Potter movie that I'm going to see in about..an hour and a half.

[solitu]

Guess what, I say you use an aggressive melee attack.;)

[Mattman20]

Guess what, I say you use an agressive melee attack.;)

And the winner is..

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/51/screenshot6h.th.png (http://img530.imageshack.us/i/screenshot6h.png/)

I figured with my atrocious luck I'd roll a 1, but I ended up being pleasantly surprised :)

[solitu]

In this occation you will win even if you rolled an aggressive 6.

[smv1973]

I now have 9 gems.

[Oldschool]

@ Mattman nice to see that. What I would've recommended under those circumstances. Don't know the exact odds but personally in that situation I figure one would stand a better chance at killing the foe than fleeing intact.


Haven't been on since just after the Hurl closed but I'll add this to the bowl's gem debate.

I'm hoping under the circumstances (which I'll get to momentarily) that the next part (post gem equipped bowl) of this new content is still in development.

This randomness of the temples appearance (no temple sightings for any of my characters yet) is frustrating which is compounded for players with limited playing time and/or multiple characters aka "yours truly".

However a little hopeful speculation/light at the end of the tunnel may be in order.

It would seem that would be the case (still in development) as this has been the situation in the past at least with item drops. A random appearance of an encounter I'm guessing could be GM manipulated just like an item drop.

Remember the frustratingly sparse random drops of the Finger items and bands as well as the jagged iron shards/wand pieces which are now much much more frequent.

While there is no next chapter (well expected anyways) to the Finger and we're still waiting for the next in Jirin-Nol's vault, the jagged iron shards were pretty sparse until the Vault of the Iron Dragon was available then the drops were increased rather dramatically.

While I'm not wishing that the next chapter isn't ready I am hoping that once it's unveiled the temple appearances will be increased. Also, I'm not considering Teek's reappearance with the last two gems the next chapter unless that coincides with something else. After all one can be sitting around with 10 gems waiting for Teek and 12 gems after finding Teek with equally twiddling thumbs waiting for the next development.

Just my two cents.

[paladin]

Well I finally! got my second temple appearance and, much to my surprise, survived relatively unscathed. Actually I think I only failed at one snare and the damage wasn't too severe. Good thing too, since i've absolutely no healing items at my disposal, at least none usable outside of combat. Had I had some I might have gone for all eighteen snares instead of the six that I actually disarmed. But I got my first gem. Hopefully the others won't take so long in the finding. I really don't have the patience for doing Ogredom over and over again all day just for that, especially since as it stands I can only reach level 36 or 37 with any consistency. Speaking of which, tomorrow, when I can be persuaded to take a break from the Twilight novels, the first one at any rate, I need to make a trip over to pound on Xarrakk for more bands. Those at least appear with some degree of frequency.

[billydakid]

This was pretty cool. I think i'll try the same system I used this time next time and see if it works.

Congratulations, BillyDaKid!

The Bowl of Blood is now adorned with 3 of the twelve gems that fit into the sockets on its outer rim.

And, perhaps most important of all, you escaped from the Silent Temple of Skargokk with your life.

You successfully conquered 18 of the 18 snares in Skargokk's lair. Well done!


XP +1,152 You've been awarded a total of 1,152 Experience...
1,152 xp applied to general...





XP +288 You've been awarded 288 Experience...
288 xp applied to All Skills and Powers...




Please continue...

[Doolipalally]

This was pretty cool. I think i'll try the same system I used this time next time and see if it works.

Congratulations, BillyDaKid!

The Bowl of Blood is now adorned with 3 of the twelve gems that fit into the sockets on its outer rim.

And, perhaps most important of all, you escaped from the Silent Temple of Skargokk with your life.

You successfully conquered 18 of the 18 snares in Skargokk's lair. Well done!


XP +1,152 You've been awarded a total of 1,152 Experience...
1,152 xp applied to general...





XP +288 You've been awarded 288 Experience...
288 xp applied to All Skills and Powers...




Please continue...



I'm envious - I always seem to fail enough checks to get me right down to danger levels pretty quickly.

So what was the system? (here's hoping it didn't involve kepbekk!)

[shadowblack]

I'm starting to really HATE the battlegrounds. Too much depends on random chance, and I HATE random numbers determining my fate!

[solitu]

I'm starting to really HATE the battlegrounds. Too much depends on random chance, and I HATE random numbers determining my fate!

I don't like these challenges very much either. It's not only because the random thing, but the highly repetitive combats and lack of the feeling of "really finished something" also started to wear down my patience.

Ah, but I've only got one gem for now and still have to try it again and again...

[zmflavius]

Yes, but EVERYTHING depends on random chance in this game. In the fights, it won't matter if you're fighting a three, if you roll only ones, you'll die. If it's possible to get through something by using a skill, don't forget that you have a chance to fail.

[shadowblack]

Actually, no, not everything depends on luck. In some cases having a high enough skill can guarantee success even if you pick a 1. For example:
I read about one particular place in the new PG where you need 75+ to succeed. If you have 20 in all stats and Thievery 96 you have a total bonus of 74. Thus even if you pick a 1 you will still get the required 75+. In other words the random element is completely eliminated in this case.

Another example:
When approaching Xarakk you need 100+ to succeed. I have a bonus of 105, so the chance of failure is eliminated.

There are other such examples in the game.

As for combats, even if your rolls are low, you can counter this by using Quickstone 20s, Blessings, Wand, Finger, Quickstone heals, or - in the worst case - a high-damage offensive power.

Not in the battelgrounds, however: because there's a battle after a battle after a battle (and so on) all of those things are far less useful and the main thing becomes finding an orb at the right time: Black orbs allow you to skip several battles while healing orbs heal you (saving you valuable NvR). A level skip can save you some time and trouble (not to mention this seems to be the only way to find that temple).

So you see, in the battelgrounds random numbers are a lot more important than in the rest of the game.

[billydakid]

It may have been just pure luck I'll find out again when I get the port but,I started out on the bottom left took all them guys out then went to the middle and took them guys out then went over to the right and took them guys out. The middle guys seemed easier after I took the left side out first. Before I'd try and start in the middle and get knocked down a lot. When I started out on the left and went in order left middle and then right it seemed a lot easier. Oh yeah and I started on the bottom on all 3.

[billydakid]

Ok got my 4th gem. I used the system described up above. It's purely luck although I did pretty good didn't clear the board. However a tip take your sp down to as low as it can go. Then go get the gem in the chamber. Make sure you have enough to make a hit or 2 when you return to the challenge then use your wand. That's what I've been doing. I haven't had to use elixors or qickstones. I also exit the challenge right after I get the gem though to ensure I got the gem. I don't want to die and have to redo it.

[smv1973]

I just got gem #10.

10 of the 12 sockets are fitted with a blood-red gem.

Now if Teek would up with the last 2. Also I will see On my next runs if the temple is still around.

[zmflavius]

Perhaps when you get your tenth gem, Idrisskar and Pryhan have something different to say?

[paladin]

That's what I did last night. I took out the snares on the right and then just entered the chamber and filched the gem. Then I exited the challenge because I was in no mood to get squashed by my next oponent and undo all my hard work. I totally agree with Shadowblack here. I'm starting to really hate the Battlegrounds, this challenge in particular. I only hope finding the temple doesn't take so long next time.

[smv1973]

Perhaps when you get your tenth gem, Idrisskar and Pryhan have something different to say?

They still say the samething.

[Hastifer]

A higher starting level actually lowers your chances of a Random Encounter, which lowers your chances of getting the Temple (or any other special random encounter) --

To prevent this, use a Power during your first combat on each Attempt, to keep your Starting Level low. That's what I've been doing to keep Arken at level 5 on Ogredom.

[paladin]

Grrr! I can't believe I just did that! I went over and beat up on Xarrakk to recharge my Finger, then headed for the Battlegrounds to see if I couldn't get myself another gem. Much to my surprise I got a portal to the temple before I even cleared the 20s. So I made my way through the tunnel, without even encountering a single Ogre I might add, until I reached the door. So I healed up because I wanted to be at full stamina for the snares, but then when it came time to enter the temple I accidentally clicked Step into the Portal! Gurr'r'r'r'r'r'r'r'r'r'r'r'r! What a waste!

[zmflavius]

I'm not sure that's how it works. I never use powers til like lvl 14, and I always start at lvl 5.

[paladin]

I don't even use powers until I get to at least level 30 and I still start at 5.

[shadowblack]

The current guess is that you must not take any damage and you must not use any powers either. It's unclear if you have to survive in addition to these two things.

[Joddelle]

I took damage in levels 5-10 earlier, but the last time I started it was at level 10, so the 'don't take damage' isn't it.

And I almost never use a power before level 20ish, either in combat or to heal or to destroy a rock. By almost never, I mean I can't remember ever doing so, except maybe for a rock.

I think it's simply a matter of how many times you've run through the challenge.

[Hastifer]

Shadowblack's right -- my suggestion to use NV was intended guarantee you stay at a lower starting level.

While getting hit accomplishes the same thing, you can't guarantee you'll get hit (well I guess you could use the Finger).

I still haven't tested if using an item (one that doesn't hurt) affects the starting level.

[billydakid]

Heck i'll try your theory. they keep moving me up a lvl every time I quit. I'm starting these battles at lvl 21 now. seems leverytime i get a gem and then quit after fighting the last battle they move me up a lvl to start at its driving me crazy. could this be a bug?? should I write the Gm??

[Hastifer]

I took damage in levels 5-10 earlier, but the last time I started it was at level 10, so the 'don't take damage' isn't it.

And I almost never use a power before level 20ish, either in combat or to heal or to destroy a rock. By almost never, I mean I can't remember ever doing so, except maybe for a rock.

I think it's simply a matter of how many times you've run through the challenge.

Hum -- but did you take damage 5-10 levels earlier on the attempt that immediately preceded your new starting level?

The guess is that it is based on your most recent Attempt (hence why it goes up seemingly random increments).


It seems like this --

Attempt #1, didn't take damage/use Power until Level 6
Attempt #2, started at Level 5, first blood right away
Attempt #3, started at Level 5, first blood at 12
Attempt #4, started at Level 11, first blood at 14
Attempt #5, started at Level 13, first blood right away

So, even though on Attempt #1, player took damage at level 6... on a later Attempt player didn't take damage until a later level, so could start at a higher level.

I was believing the # of Attempts made a difference, too, but I've been holding Arken at level 5 in Ogredom by using a Power at that level for the past 6 runs.

Time will tell though -- I'm going to keep doing it my way in hopes of being right (because I want to be in control of my starting level). If I'm wrong I'll let everyone know when that happens.

[Joddelle]

Hum -- but did you take damage 5-10 levels earlier on the attempt that immediately preceded your new starting level?

Yes, I've still got the note I made sitting beside my monitor. In fact, I took a hit for 8 (healed back 5) on the very first combat the time before.

Edit: also I stayed at 5 for a long time. maybe 12 attempts? I didn't keep track at first.

[Hastifer]

Hum. Re-postulating. :confused:

[Hastifer]

...In fact, I took a hit for 8 (healed back 5) on the very first combat the time before.

Healed back via the Haleblade then? (Still clinging by a thread to my theory)

[Joddelle]

I don't know if the Hale blade kicked in in earlier rounds, since it was a Quick Combat. But my SP was 8 down at the end of combat, and I recovered 5 on the next screen.

[Hastifer]

Ah. Oh well... here goes.

I am not smarter than a fifth grader. I mean... I was wr.... wrrrrrrr.... ... ...


ong...

[Hastifer]

Ugh, and to top it all off I just started at level 7 on Ogredom.

He's watching this thread. I know it.

SO, more crow. I was wrong wrong wrong.

But I'm ok. At least now we KNOW instead of just guessing about it.