Ubique's Weekly

A Mutual Endeavors Publication

Issue #76 ~ 19 April 2005

The Blurb

"Things do not change; we change." -- Henry David Thoreau

Hello once again, loyal readers.  My ... it has been quite some time since I have taken the time to compile Ubique's Weekly and present it to you all.  Life has handed me quite a bit more time for life, but not as much time to be online I'm afraid.  With my current employment status being nonexistent, one might think that I should have more time to work on these projects of mine.  But sadly that is not the case.  Some of you may be aware of the variables in my life that have been keeping me busy.  For the rest of you, it is not that important, and I won't bore you with the details.  I'm sure you're all just anxious for the news!

Based on the results of the survey that was printed in the last issue of UW, I have decided to try some differences in the compilation of UW this week.  As you can see, I've chosen to utilize 10 point Arial for this week's newsletter.  Though I prefer the simple neatness of 10 point Times New Roman myself, it seems that at least half of you have poor vision and would like to see something different.  My SSE listed other options in the previous issue, and I'm going to experiment down the list in hopes that I receive some input from the rest of you on what is preferred.  So don't be shy.  With your next set of updates, please send me your opinion on the layout each week.  Hopefully we'll be able to reach a conclusion on which style is best for everyone.  Even picky and somewhat professional me.

With all that said, I have a feeling that this change is going to put a hamper on how much information can be compiled into each e-mail.  So let me cut this short and move on with the news, eh?

Top Story!

"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work." -- Thomas A. Edison

Figuring out what I should place here for the Top Story! this week was quite the challenge.  I think amongst the updates I have received over the past several weeks that the following is the likely candidate for more Out of Character information than the others.

The six-foot long giant ant carcass taken by Joe Yamada has been analyzed, and the data disseminated to various scientific publications.  Summary follows -

Sample of electrocuted insect life form as collected by Joe Yamada, contributed to the UR Outlands Xenobiological Catalogue in collaboration with Northedge Academy. 

Sample was killed while apparently hunting near or in the Silver Moon Inn by what appears to have been a mystically generated high-voltage electrical discharge.  The cause of death inflicted significant damage to the neurostructures and muscular connectivity, however the primary musculature and exoskeleton is fundamentally intact.

The specimen measures approximately 2.2 meters from the tip of it's mandibles to the posterior end of the abdomen, and most likely stands approximately 2 meters in height.  It weighs about 225 kilograms, but is partially desicated from electrocution.

The specimen's general body shape is fundamentally insectoid, with a distinct head, thorax and abdomen.  The abdomenal structure is classically wasplike, being elongated and extremely flexible.  As with other soldier-type specimens examined, there is a stinger at the distal end of about seven centimeters in length.  It appears to inject a venom based on formic acid, the effect of which is immense pain in the victim rather than paralysis or death.  The venom glands appear to be extremely active, and the venom bladders are small in proportion, adaptations that appear to help maintain the abdomen's flexibility and enable the soldier to deploy it's stinger in virtually any direction.

The structure of the thorax is similar to that of previously examined specimens but present a few radical differences.  The arrangement of the six limbs is, notably, asymmetrical.  The specimen has five locomotive legs, optimized in their structure for fast movement over broken terrain, but they are extremely flexible which probably makes these creatures excellent leapers, climbers, and possibly even swimmers.  One observable alteration to the tips of the legs is that they do not contain the combination of spines and oils that permit them to stick to vertical or inverted horizontal surfaces.  While they probably do have great gripping power, these new soldiers cannot walk on walls in the usual insect fashion.  The legs are arranged in a front-and-back arrangement, with three legs being forward and two being back. 
      
The sixth limb, the forewardmost right limb, is set high in the thoracic joint, an arrangement permitted by a kind of upswept ridge on the side of the armature.  This limb is nearly 1.5 meters long, with an obvious manipulator at the end.  This 'hand' has seven clawed digits, all of them opposable to some degree, and although it is quite strong it is immensely flexible as well.
      
Disection has revealed that the thorax contains an unusual neural arrangement, implying that in life this specimen had a kinesthetic sense far superior to that of other insects, or indeed to any typical animal that isn't a tree-dweller.

The head is also slightly asymetrical.  The mandible structure, while similar to the previously recorded Soldier ants, is smaller and apparently more precise in it's applications.  Both mandibles are barbed, but the right mandibles barbs sweep slightly backwards while those of the left sweep forwards.  This arrangement makes little sense without the presence of the single arm, on the right side - it appears that these 'swiss army mandibles' are designed to interact with the arm as a kind of 'helper' appendage, making them a weak and inflexible 'left arm' to the thoracic right arm.  It is notable that this is a description of the outer edges of the mandibles.  The inner edges are lined with small inward facing barbs a bit like a sharks dentation.  It can be tentatively guessed that, unlike the previously encountered Soldiers, these creatures can feed themselves.  There remains some debate on that subject.

Asymmetry among large animals is unusual, but it is not unprecedented among arthropods - hermit crabs come irresistably to mind.  The integument of these creatures is far more unusual, it's shape and composition being clear evidence of intelligent design.  The chitin is vaguely laminate in structure, with ablative properties, as observed in previous specimens.   But in this speciment it also has a truly unusual compound in the outer lining of the shell, giving the chitin thermal superconducting properties.  The deeper layers are strongly insulated, and the combination means that the specimen could probably withstand extremely hot fires for extended periods.  They might need to protect their sense organs from fire exposure, but the heat itself would cause them trivial inconvenience.

In addition, the specimen has been - there is simply no better word for it - etched.  Certainly there are vicious-looking spines and barbs at various points on the legs and thorax.  (It can be noted in passing that some of the larger thoracic barbs curve forward - an excellent arrangement for preventing an attack from the rear or above, but which might hinder the soldiers' movements through tunnels of the kind the giants ants are known to dig.  Watch should therefore be kept for unusually large tunnel entrances.)  But the truly strange character of the ridges and furrows in the head and thoracic shell is clearly Runelike in nature.  Careful examination of the database on Runes and Enchanted Artistry suggests that it is a hodgepodge of different styles and mystical values.  There is one identifiable character of the infamous Dark Speech, but the ideogram simply means 'without a lord', vaguely corresponding to the Japanese concept of Ronin.  Another is of the Trapezian Runes, and signifies the pairing of 'hearing' and 'men'.  There are others that have been identified, but the intention behind marking the specimen in this fashion remains obscure.  There doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason behind this mish-mash of concepts from various sources and cultures.

Finally, the head is of similar proportions to previously observed Ant Soldiers, but the armor is no thicker due to an unusual increase in brain size and complexity.  One theory to account for this is that this Soldier might be psionically/telepathically active in some way, but this remains entirely unproven.

Those in the know of this particular incident might find it beneficial to have their character(s) discuss the findings with Joe Yamada.  Otherwise, it is unlikely that anyone would know the truth of the matter.

--The Nefarious SM, in cooperation with,
--DarkAngelGenesis
Storyline Spotlight Editor
Ubique's Weekly
Mutual Endeavors

Storyline Spotlight

"In these matters the only certainty is that nothing is certain." -- Pliny the Elder

Having received quite a collection of news updates this week, I found it difficult to determine what should be placed where.  Then I realized that both of these work well for Storyline Spotlights in regards to those involved with these particular occurrences.  So ... I present to you not one, not two, but THREE news broadcasts for Rhy'Din this week.

Rhy'Din Bank Collapses For First Time

Rhydin AM Cryer
April 3, 2005

Panicky depositors this past Wednesday helped trigger the first collapse of a Rhy'Din bank in recent history.  Government officials closed National Bank of Rhy'Din on Thursday and announced that the financial institution would remain closed until further notice.  Those depositors who still have accounts with NBR have had their assets frozen until a thorough audit can be completed.

The government was quick to reassure panicky citizens that both First Bank of Rhy'Din and Rhy'Din Savings and Loan, among other financial institutions, are continuing business as usual despite what is being called "The Crisis" around town.

Executive district Mayor Matt Wilkins pledged that the depositors at National Bank of Rhy'Din "will get their money back."

"Fear will not spread," Wilkins insisted.  But the news has sent shivers through the financial markets and has prompted some foreign and domestic investors to sell their investments in local businesses.

The banking crisis and generally fragile economic outlook in Rhy'Din means that the silver can drop to as low as 25 cents on the dollar on the Tech Exchange Market as soon as next month, according to Andrew Lieven, manager of foreign exchange at First Bank of Rhy'Din.

However, analysts were encouraged by the government's unusual decision to dissolve a weak bank, saying it could assure Rhy'Din savers that future bank insolvencies can be handled smoothly.

"This sets a good precedent," said Lynn Wilson-Evans, an industry analyst with TelMark Enterprises. "The government is starting to take action, and that's very positive. I definitely think there's going to be more of this, but it's good that it's being dealt with."

Jen Talee, deputy director of Rhy'Din's Banking Bureau, said that while there may still be more failures among small institutions, there are currently no other large credit unions or regional banks in as weak a condition as National Bank of Rhy'Din.

"The major problems in this category are all solved," he said.


Vigilante Styled Crimes On The Rise

Police Credit "Dark Angels" With Crime Waves

Rhydin AM Cryer
April 10, 2005

There have been two murder sprees in recent weeks.  Both sprees share similar victims, what police officials best describe as "criminal elements", a trend unlike the recent attacks against "persons of mixed heritage".

The murder sprees differ both in the method of execution and the victims, however.  One set of victims appears to be criminals who have escaped prosecution by the long arm of the law in the past.  Police officials are extremely reluctant to reveal details about the methods of execution which may lead to conviction of the individuals involved in these crimes.

According to a statement released by RPD media spokesperson Ryan Knolann, "Whoever is committing these crimes is taking the law into their own hands.  And that form of vigilante justice will not be tolerated."

Deputy Marshall Rachael Wynter was unable to be reached for comment on these cases.


Navarra Chronicle

A Statement from Her Grace, the Duchess of Navarra

Greetings,

It has come to my attention that some people in Rhydin Proper have received so-called draft notices. Since there is no recognized central government in Rhydin Proper and no names have been mentioned as to who is responsible for these notices, which apparently were unsigned, it leads me to the conclusion that it is some sort of vicious joke.

If you are questioned while visiting or doing any business in that part of Rhydin, be wary. There are apparently crimes being committed against those that are not of human origin. If you are presented with any sort of document stating that you have been called into service, inform them that you are citizens of Navarra, one of Rhydin's sovereign states. It has been proven to be a deterant to further action upon individuals.

Avoid traveling there alone and above all safeguard the welfare of your children. It is recommended that you do not take your children into Rhydin Proper until this has passed. They are vulnerable and make defending yourself from attacks more difficult.

The border patrols and other ground surveillance within Navarra will be increased. Patrols have been requested to watch from the air as well. At this time, citizens are reminded to make sure their personal weapons are given proper maintainance. Those with magical skills are reminded that those also get rusty over time and that practice is highly recommended.

As for the recent notices regarding the collapse of certain financial institutions, again, be wary. As was previous stated, Rhydin Proper has never had a recognized central government. Those of you that had money in the bank or other financial instutions that reportedly collapsed, do not expect action from a body that simply calls itself a goverment that was not voted on nor recognized by all citizens of Rhydin. See me during office hours and arrangements will be made to assist anyone effected by these events.

Catriona Colleen MacLeod Ithildirnenvësse, Duchess of Navarra

--The Nefarious SM, standing in for,
--DarkAngelGenesis
Storyline Spotlight Editor
Ubique's Weekly
Mutual Endeavors

This Just In

"The skill of writing is to create a context in which other people can think." -- Edwin Schlossberg

This week's Headlines, as is the case with most weeks, are few and far between.  Most of the details are Out of Character and only presented as a brief summary of things that have been discussed elsewhere.  However, we are not without news, so do enjoy!

Fall Out Of Adventure?:  Blackjack Adventures has temporarily suspended its operations until further notice, due to the current climate of social unrest, as a safety measure for our clients.  Please contact Administrative Director of Operations Irina Braeden for further information on this matter.

The Blackjack Family would like to extend our gratitude to those who have faithfully stood by us since our opening.  We want to apologize for the inconvenience and will resume operations as soon as it is safe for our clients.  As a token of our gratitude, once things are back to normal, returning clients will receive discounts on select packages.  It's just our way of thanking you for your loyalty.

Investigations Continue:  Oficials are continuing to investigate the string of murders that have occured this week. While there are many suspects as all victims have been traced to Rhydin's underworld activities, statments clearly indicate that there are few leads in the "Dime Slayings".

Quit Monkeying Around:  For a few nights in the last week, the Silver Moon Inn has been invaded by animals resembling large, dark-furred gibbons.  They appear to be able to alter reality in some ways, and have demonstrated phenomena that resemble conjuration, banishment, and exoteleportation.  Although they demonstrate some attributes of Faerie power - certainly, they have a dictinctly fae effect on dignity - there is no actual sign that they are using magic.  In fact, their powers might be more of a probability altering phenomenon.  Approach with caution.

Mutual Endeavors on the Web:  The Nefarious SM has been working a great deal on the Great Archiving Project with the assistance of the latest IWA Archive Editor Bronze Mesteno.  Current updates have amounted to UW issues numbered 1 through 40 being completely archived and available for review at any time on our main UW Headquarters website hosted on geocities (http://www.geocities.com/ehzoterik/UW.html).  Look forward to seeing five more past issues archived within the week, and five more each continuous week following thereafter.  M is doing a spectacular job keeping up with the demand, and I don't think I can present enough thanks for the help.

Also, the community LiveJournal has presented itself to be a great success with the amount of recent posts and topics of conversation in regards to roleplaying, writing, and collaboration.  As stated previously, anyone with a LiveJournal themselves is welcome to submit a request to join the community at any time through the journal's site (http://www.livejournal.com/community/mutualendeavors).  All requests made will be reviewd and eligibility will be considered.  Only those who strive to keep the dream alive by working together for the betterment of roleplay far and wide will be accepted into the community.

--The Nefarious SM, standing in for,
--The Elusive Jess
Collaborative Headline Editor
Ubique's Weekly
Mutual Endeavors

In Other News...

"Character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing." -- Abraham Lincoln

Yes, I liked that quotation so much that I'm using it again.  For anyone that noticed.  Sadly it wasn't up until most recently that we received a decent amount of individual Character Updates for UW.  The Nefarious SM has presented a variety of options when it comes to how updates are sent in and received.  Come on people, we want to know what your characters have been up to!  Don't be shy!

Ariana (ArianaMacGyldren, SMI Ariana):  The green sister, along with her husband Galen (Galen MacGyldren) and daughter Elaine (Elaine Aqua), still resides at her husband and brother in law's clan lands.   Ariana is resting from the Easter candy rush at her Bakery.  The green sister made a rare public appearance at the Silver Moon Inn this past week to converse with the now human Caife (SMI Multifarious).

Ava the Kestrel (The Multifarious):  It would seem that Ava was caught in some of the chaos on the streets.  She has recently been seen with injured looking wings after some sort of fight at an area hospital.  She is still walking, though, which is a good sign.

Bridget Dillon (Bridget Dillon): Wolf Investigations, located near a wooded area of Fool's Luck Bay, has opened its doors once again on a part-time basis. Ms. Dillon is also working in the forensics section of the Star's End Port Authority's Criminal Investigation Division.

Caife (SMI Multifarious): Seebo the gnome, one of the designers of the Coffee Machine Golem, dropped by the SMI recently and shed some light on the change of the Golem to the Man.  It seems that the designers of the Java Jive 505 tried to put a few odd little extras under the hood in the process of testing various technomagical subsystems for military purposes.

One of the contractors for a biomorphic disguise system was, it seems, the Sidhe court.

The gnomes of the Dragonstar corp quickly realized that magic from the land of faerie was too volatile and too uncontrollable to interact safely with the elemental power of a Coffee Machine Golem, let alone the technological components, so they tried to negate the diguise system before packaging.  It would seem that they were unsuccessful; for unknown reasons, the biomorphic system activated last month, and won't deactivate.

So basically all Caife has to do is find a way to reverse the spell, and he'll be a Golem again.  Mind you, he can also commit suicide - if his new 'human body' dies, his true Golem body will emerge unharmed.  Given his stated distaste for his human form, it can only be a matter of time.

Carmine (TaciturnMerc):  Carmine is considering applying for a new position as a bouncer on board the cruise ship, The Lady Luck.  He has also expressed his concerns about the war that has been brewing for several months now.

Carolyn Valkonan (DreamsInBurgundy): She made an appearance at the Divine Delights bakery recently with her father, Drake (Drake Valkonan). She certainly seemed in a cheerful mood. Though she did scoff at her mother's wishes to dye her hair to a more normal color. Normal isn't for her! Besides, it's not like she's afraid!

Cassandra Tyra (Against Descent):  Nightmares tend to keep one awake, not that anyone hears the Hieracthon complaining.  She's been a bit subdued lately and somewhat aloof. Surprisingly, she was called in for a shift on the Lady Luck recently. Events seem to be eating at the seer, but just what could they be?

Colleen MacLeod (PrlUnicorn, SMI Colleen):  Recently, Collie was overheard, in the Silver Moon Inn, discussing what she referred to as the so-called drafting of various people among Rhydin's citizenry. Word is she will be releasing a statement to citizens in the Duchy of Navarra regarding certain recent events.

Deputy Marshall Wynter (Rachael Wynter): The scarred woman in black was recently seen at the Rambling Rose Tavern discussing business matters with one James Tanner (Gentleman Jim T), as well as aiding in a conflict with a Garou there.

Diana Lasher (Fragile Fury):  Commander Lasher's Misfit Squadron has been placed on retainer to watch the borders of the Duchy of Navarra, which rests at Eldicor's northern border, as well as New Camelot Academy and University, which is controlled by Draven Lasher. When asked for comment on this most recent assignment, Commander Lasher stated, "War is hell and hell is not coming where we fly."

Dris (BardGaIIant):  Not much to report.  Seems he's been keeping himself cooped up in the basement for the most part lately.  With Spring here he's received a lot of commissions and has been kept rather busy.

Ehzoterik VonArcanum Tempestas (Ehzoterik):  Since all this ruckus started, Ehz hasn't come out of Limbo.  In fact, scrawled in fingerpaint on the back of closet walls far and wide are the words, "We don't want no girl scout cookies.  Do not disturb!"

Faladar (Afreet Master):  Faladar was afraid he'd be left with very little to do this past week, because the names on his list are crossed out, and the authorities chasing him are misled.  A few bodies had to be buried, but Shadi came along for some questionable advice and didn't mind helping. Killed two birds (as well as several people) with one stone.  Quite uneventful otherwise, despite the werewolf episode he'd handled quite heroically the night before.

Faye: She Who Tends the Dead (Faye Random):  Rather conveniently, She is nowhere to be found.

Hmte (Invasion of Hmte):  Two developments in the life of the sentient colony of giant ants - it appears that for truly incomprehensible reasons, the giant ants have ceased to attack humans.  Animals yes, and elves, dwarves, gnomes, vampires, and anything else that diverges from the human form in any substantial way, but not humans.  Even when they enter its tunnels.  Caution is still called for in approaching or combating the ants -- given that its reasons are unknown, its policy could change at any moment.

The other development is the appearance of a larger soldier.  The four foot long soldiers were about the size of a large dog, but the new six-footers are actually larger than most humans.  And one of its limbs appears to be a functioning hand.  It seems Hmte, not having been known as an extensive tool-user before, decided 'Well, if you can't beat 'em, join 'em.'  If there is an upside, it is that the hyper-fast ants seen previously have disappeared.

Irina Braeden (Irina Braeden):  In this week's installment, among the news of note for this native Rhydin resident was that she was spotted at The Merry Eire Pub, Rambling Rose Tavern and the Silver Moon Inn this past week.  Issue #32 of Bright Suns is out on the stands and available at Comic Masters.  Irina is nearly finished working on Issue #33.  Maybe that's why she's looking so tired lately.  Oh, and her hair is still magenta pink.  Life goes on.  Stay tuned.

Jack Bishop (Jackrabbit Blue):  People are getting drafted for a war and it seems that the letter B is in top priority these days.  Has Jack received a notice as well?  If so, he sure hasn't mentioned it.

Kuldurg (Kuldurg): The half-ogre mercenary has been doing his work in the further reaches of the hinterlands, but for reasons unknown has been called back to Rhydin. 

Mer Harriss (Heavy Metal Mer):  All is remotely quiet on the Adept's front, save for the fact that some sort of dog-creature seems to like plaguing her shifts at the Rambling Rose. Look for Mer to be carrying more weaponry in the future...

Nicole Brock Anorlasvessë (Nicole E Brock): Nicole and her husband, Anorlas, are having great success with their jewelry business.

Pleione (Stellar Balinese):  Maybe she's run away from home for good?

Rachael MacLeod (RachaeI MacLeod):  Rachael and her lifemate, Sulrin (SMI Sulrin), are preparing to move to Mellor once the cold weather and snow are completely gone. Sulrin is expected to resume his duties as a marchwarden once his family is settled in.

Rei (AmethystStarfall):   Rei has been doing what he can to stay out of the public eye.  A war that preys on half-breeds is no place for a guy like him.  He is getting rather stir crazy though and likely will venture out of his hiding place soon.

Rhiannon D. Brock (Rhiannon D Brock):  Rhi has been coping with nightmares recently, but continues to participate in the Duel of Swords and make wedding plans with Joker (Richard D Harker, SMI Joker). There is still some talk of the couple eloping, but it is possible that the nightmares are causing Rhiannon to reconsider marriage.

Salvador (Peculiar Silence):  Of all the people to be laughing in the face of danger, Sal seems to be one of them.  This threat of being targeted in a so-called war doesn't have him scared.  He has been spending a great deal of time roaming the streets and hunting, as he likes to call it.  Having dealt with a variety of crazy nuisances over the past month, including the monkey invasion of the SMI!  It seems he has elected himself to be Val's (XValentineShyreX) personal bodyguard most of the time.  Or is it more than that?  Having saved her from drowning at The Lady Luck most recently, nearly drowning himself, he has gone into hiding and skipping school again.  Rest assured he'll be out and about some time very soon.  There are bad guys to punish still!

Shadi (Shadibadoo):  Suspicion and espionage has been Shadi's little game for the past week. Whether or not Sal does have eyes in the back of his head, Shadi's found himself trailing him, peering curiously.  He'd made the decision to abandon all hope of Sal gaining human emotions, but there's still some doubt in him.  Maybe this Val character is just the person to help Sal open up. And of course, Shadi doesnt know if he'd like that or not.

Stephen Valkonan (Stephen Valkonan):  How could Stephen not be a busy boy with current events? Lately he's taken over Don's Thursday chemistry classes, as well as trying to keep track of students. Also there's always his master's classes to be finished up.  Sometimes he thinks coffee is the only thing keeping him functioning...

Valentine Shyre (XValentineShyreX):  This one has been through quite a bit lately, but it seems things are settling now.  Val not only discovered the truth about her mother's death but she also stumbled upon her dead father.  After going through nights and nights of waiting, two very good friends, Sal and Morgan convinced her to do things right.  Unfortunately, more stumbling...and Val became a vampire slayer for one night.  Or at least it appeared that way when others saw her approaching the Rose carrying a head in her hands.  As before mentioned...everything was settled...Except for her own thoughts and feelings.  Has she had a change of heart? Was she starting to feel differently toward a certain someone or not? Whatever it is....not even she knows what might come of it.

--Ellyn VT
Character News Editor
Ubique's Weekly
Mutual Endeavors

Dear Ava

"Hard work never killed anybody, but why take a chance?" -- Edgar Bergen

Due to circumstances beyond our control, Ava has been unable to work on replying to her mail recently.  Please stand by.

--Ava the Kestrel
Dear Somebody Editor
Ubique's Weekly
Mutual Endeavors

Classifieds

This is the section where anything you the player and/or your character needs can be advertised.  It's a very underutilized resource for soliciting and promoting cooperative roleplay in storylines and I for one would like to see that change.   I'd like to thank those players who continue to take advantage of this resource and also encourage the rest of you out there to do the same.  Any future ads and/or changes to present ads should be sent to ArianaMacGyldren.  For ease of use, I've broken the ads down into In Character and Out of Character listings.

This section is updated from time to time with new ads as well as updates of older ads.  Please don't just skim over this section.  Read it.  Use it.

In Character Listings

Bayview Productions : Currently seeking a local guide for their documentary crew.  Any individuals with an intimate knowledge of the area and giant ants are asked to respond to this publication.  Bayview Productions is prepared to pay handsomely for this service. For more information please contact them courtesy of Ink Wire Associates.

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Forging Arms:  Looking for the right gift idea for your lovable warrior? Are you a wizard who's strength is far less than the amount of enemies you have made?  Maybe you're a damsel who refuses to be distressed, or perhaps an assassin who needs a new gimmick. 

At HKG forge we have all your weapons needs.  Special order? No problem.  Our staff of expert smiths are subject to inspection by a certified master of the forge before a sale can be completed.  Need magical properties?  No problem.  HKG forge has an elementalist on staff to service most brands of magical weapons. 

Our ore is genuine mithril and comes straight from the dwarven mine and smelting facility Crystal Cavern, whom we have partnered with nearly since its inception.  So get down to the forge today and pick up that special evening accessory today. 

5 G.P. off your purchase of any new Kruger made weapon

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Help Wanted - I am seeking individuals to Crew and Staff my latest acquisition, a riverboat casino by the name of "The Lady Luck." Kindly direct all inquires to Myself. I can commonly be found at the Rambling Rose Tavern.  Or, leave a message at my current residence.

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IDPC : Are pesky Pixies pirating your poultry?  Dagger Drakes diving in your dough?  Sarduvian Razor mice dicing your delicatessen?  Irritating Insects invading your Igloo?  Just call the IDPC.  Inter-Dimensional Pest Control, we handle anything from the smallest flea, to the grandest giant.  No job too big, none too small.  100% money back guarantee*.  Now Taking Applications. Contact IDPC Rusty.
*money back guarantee subject to terms and conditions

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Junk Collector : Do you have used electronics cluttering up the place?  Need some more space about your home?  Broken, obsolete, it matters not.  I will gladly take such items off your hands, or even repair or upgrade your system.  Rates negotiable.  Contact Jules Braeden at 411-555-7913.  Leave a message.  Let's do business!

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Mestrangelo Enterprises : Dealer and Procurer of All Things.  Specialties Include: Rare Books, Antiques, Modern Machinery.  Discretion and Satisfaction Guaranteed.  4242 Broadway.  Conveniently located between the Tech and Old Sectors of the city.

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Pawn Shop :  Has this ever happened to you?  You are in a tavern or some other location, minding your own business when a stranger out of the blue insists you take one of his gadgets such as the amazing sword sharpening scabbards you have no use for?  Perhaps you are an adventurer that wound up with the dastardly magical McGuffin that is more trouble to keep than it is worth.  Ever wished that you could get some coin for all this useless stuff?  Look no further, that wish is about to come true!  Gather up all your unwanted stuff and trade it in to Barnaby Furlong's Ticky Tacky Curio and Pawn Shoppe.  We offer reasonable exchange rates, and even work with the barter system.  Never again do you have to allow useless stuff clutter up your place.  Trade it in for cash! 

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Photography : Local hotshot photographer seeking work!  Looking for someone to capture all those memorable moments on professional designer print?  Kevin N Summers may be just the person you've been looking for!  He works with artistic shots, action shots, wedding photos (which can be bought as a whole package with the services of Kelly's Catering Company).  You want it, you name it! Commission operates on a sliding scale to suit the customers' needs. Any interested parties can contact Mr. Summers by writing to Nick Summers c/o Ink Wire Associates, or by calling our offices and asking for Nick Summers.

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Tattoo You? :  The Rose's Thorn Tattoo and Piercing Parlor: Body modification your style? Have a specific tattoo design you've been dreaming of, aching for, but no one seems able to put ink to flesh? Rose Valkonan, proprietor, would be only too happy to fulfill your tattoo and piercing desires. Only the newest procedures used. We pride ourselves on our cleanliness and jewelry selection! 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed--the work's not done until YOU are happy! Contact Drake Valkonan at Valkonan Labs to set up an appointment. Be sure to mention the Rose's Thorn!

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Theatre Space Available :  The New Land Theatre is re-opening its doors this spring, and invites all productions!  Whether your show is comedy or tragedy, musical or straight drama or concert performance, the New Land is the perfect venue for your needs.  We have a main stage hall that seats 350, as well as two smaller studio spaces for more intimate settings.  Contact Ebon Ilnaren or Tenball for more details.

Out of Character Listings

Ariana's Divine Delights Bakery :  For those of you who remember the good old days of AOL's message boards, we would like to remind one and all that nothing is ever completely lost in this day and age.  Perhaps one way that we can all achieve our goals of keeping our storylines on the same track is to make use of this forgotten treasure.  Therefore, it is our great pleasure to direct everyone's attention to the existence of Ariana's Divine Delights Bakery.  With the creator's permission, we are welcoming one and all to read, write, and enjoy the glory that is storytelling through the use of message boards.  Keep those creative juices flowing!

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The Lady Luck : Have an extra load of cash just waiting to be spent?  Look no further than The Lady Luck riverboat casino.  From roulette to black jack and so much more, there's no place like it in Rhy'Din.  So if you have a gambling itch that needs scratching, drop on by!  But do be sure to check your weapons at the door.  There's a strict policy about remaining unarmed while on the premises that management would like to uphold.  Check out the Rules Page for more rules and regulations regarding this establishment.

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Rambling Rose :  The Rambling Rose Tavern is a bar and grill establishment in town, owned and operated by Seamus Wylie and Katie Rose Wylie.  Stop in and enjoy a drink or a home-style meal, but before you do check out the rules and room description by following this link: http://www.ramblingrosetavern.com.  There are plenty of fun times to be had at the Rambling Rose Tavern!  Don't hesitate to join in on them whenever possible.

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Red Dragon Inn :  From its historical origins to the present day, everything that ever was and will be concerning Rhydin can be found here.  There are also direct links to the RDI related rooms.  For more information contact the RDI's official correspondent Fayalki, or visit one of the links provided below:

--The official Red Dragon FFG Group Index webpage can be found at http://members.aol.com/rdifayalki/RDIGroup/index.htm.
--The official schedule can be found by following AOL Keyword: RED DRAGON INN > Role-Playing Games Chat Schedule.
--All Boards for Red Dragon Inn can be located via this link: Red Dragon Inn
         -OOC General Discussion:  The Kitchen Sink
         -Role-playing techniques, tips, etc.:  Players Assisting Players
         -Compliments to fellow players/writers:  Words of Praise
         -Recruiting: Writer & Role-Player Recruiting

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Silver Moon Inn : Looking for a good place for your characters to meet and interact?  Check out the Silver Moon Inn, located in the member created rooms under Arts & Entertainment.  But before you jump on in and join the fray, you should take a moment to look over the Rules & Regulations that correspond to the environment.  Once you've grown accustomed as to what to expect, feel free to see what the SMI might have in store for you.

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Subscribe Now! : Ubique's Weekly is a publication provided by the not-for-profit organization known as Mutual Endeavors.  As a free source of literary entertainment, you as the reader have the liberty to send out copies of our publication to whomever you think might enjoy the information shared.  To save yourselves the hassle of constantly forwarding what you might find amusing, feel free at any time to inform your friends and coconspirators to contact the Editor to request their very own future copies of Ubique's Weekly at no cost to them whatsoever.  It's as simple as clicking this link here above.

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Victims Wanted : Roleplayers seeking "throwaway characters" for recently developing storyline.  If you have a currently existing character that you're just plain sick of, or are interested in creating a "victim" please contact Inkwire Associates for more information.  The players behind the characters have asked to remain confidential in their interviewing process, but are encouraging everyone to join in on the "gory fun!"  Keep an eye on the weekly Headlines concerning murder victims to get a feel for what is expected.  The more the victims are actually in the public eye before their eradication, the more believable the players feel this storyline will be!

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Yellow Pages : I am collecting a list of characters and the jobs that they do.  I plan to compile all of these into one handy little reference guide.  Think of this as the Rhydin Yellow Pages.   Here is an example of a listing: