Before the gash sputtered blood onto the colosseum floor, before the gladiator's blade slashed the gap between helm and hauberk, even before Saiix had lifted his sword too late to parry, he felt Dakkru's call. Her voice was like a chill in the air that made even his horns shudder.

He remembered being a young Ynnwn boy in Quintherion, surrounded by Demorians. A classmate mocked his red skin and when a stone left his hands and smashed her face, he felt that shudder. When he explained it to his grandmother, Linas, her anger dissipated. Suddenly, she was ranting about her diaboli father and the goddess of death. "It was the same for him," she told Saiix. "That shudder. He said it was like Dakkru was demanding he come home." That was the first time she mentioned his disappearance, along with the other diaboli, centuries ago. She wasn't sure what had happened. Her father left no explanation; it wasn't until the mystery of the diaboli people vanishing into the Death Realm surfaced that she decided her father must've gone with, finally home. Perhaps Dakkru had been Saiix's only choice from the very start.

When he came to, the world around him was dark. His wounds had healed. For the third time in his life, he had traveled to the Death Realm. He spat at the ground and cracked his knuckles, overcome with the urge to punch something. There was no glory in surviving. He had failed to deliver a true death to his goddess, and that he could make the journey back to the living world meant he had yet to fulfill his goddess's designs for his time in Yliakum. The first time Saiix died, he was a whelp, in Dakkru's service for barely a year; he couldn't have been more thankful that it wasn't the end. But now, he was fifty-seven and full grown. He had spent years honing his swordsmanship and seeking battle against worthy foes, always hoping for victory or to be soundly defeated by a strong opponent and sent to his goddess at last. His grandmother had warned him. "Go to Listarindel. Find yourself a wife and settle down. Or properly join the ranks of Dakkru's worshipers. If you get too used to life without other people, you're gonna get stuck that way." Ten years later, after her passing in the same house in Quintherion she raised him in, and he could finally acknowledge she was right. He felt stuck in his ways now, just as she had been stuck in hers. There was a woman, though.

Saiix set off, through the ever shifting Death Realm. He paid no heed to other travelers, whether they were resting or trying to make it home. He only responded to the solemn nods of the other children of the Dark Crystal, occasionally murmuring, "Dakkru's will be done," as they passed one another. The faithful were always about in the Death Realm, practicing their black magic or spreading hymns and praise for the goddess. Some of them had supposedly existed in this realm for eons, too old to return to the world of the living without immediately being greeted by death, too greedy for knowledge to finally take their place with the goddess. Though, he supposed they saw it differently. As eternal denizens of her realm, they could spread her word and ensure that younger faithful continued the work in the living world.

Saiix's thoughts were interrupted as a hooded follower stepped up, kissing him on both cheeks and whispering blessings before passing. He was a rather decrepit looking Klyros, probably aged long before his death. Many of the followers who looked old played the part of great sages. It made it difficult to tell who was honest. The first time Saiix died, he thought everyone was a faker. They claimed centuries, but when he asked about his great grandfather, about the vanished diaboli, they told conflicting accounts or had no answer at all. It all seemed a great sham before he met Yerela.

Sometimes Yerela's bone hut appeared in a clearing. Other times, he had to climb up towering structures just to get a glimpse of the island in the abyss where the realm's gravity had shifted it. The year Saiix spent in the Death Realm after his first death was filled with the daily labors of finding where Yerela would be next, until they started sharing the same bed. After that, the frustrations of waking were replaced by the joys of kissing her before they got up, listening a told a story from the countless years she had spent in the realm, watching as she tirelessly worked to explore the possibilities of dark way magic, and knowing as they lay down for bed that more of the same awaited him tomorrow. He could never say whether or not this sense of constancy was the proper basis for love, but he had no other romances with which to compare. Yerela seemed to believe it was enough, but with her perception of time so skewed he couldn't be sure. When he returned to the Death Realm for the second time, she hardly remembered him. That precious year, the memories that he cherished while back in Yliakum, might as well have been the blink of an eye. He spent ten years with her after.

This time, Yerela's hut was surrounded by a dense forest of dead trees. Or tree-like structures, Saiix couldn't be sure. Life did not grow in this realm and the strange existed in ways that befuddled the mind. He weaved through them, noticing that their branches did not bend and their skins were smooth, not rough like bark. When he stepped inside Yerela's hut, she was at her desk, magnifying glass in one hand and pen in another, furiously scribbling down notes as she stared at a dark crystal fragment. And there was a man lying in her bed.

Perhaps the true ancients of the Death Realm were so numb to the passage of time that diaboli's disappearance was simply another insignificant moment in the cluttered eons of existence crammed into their minds. Perhaps Yerela could only find love in constancy given the nature of memory in a realm of uncertainty. When she spotted him and raised a brow, Saiix knew he was again a stranger. And the only question on his mind was how many years he'd sacrifice this time.

[Hey folks, was just feeling a bit nostalgic and next thing you know I was writing a story for old time's sake. Please forgive any typos! Also, my settings knowledge is a bit rusty. I read stuff on the website for a refresher, but if some things are off by apologies! But this was a fun break; maybe I'll continue it as I get time. To any old friends out there lurking, hope you've been well!]

I was shown this site and just thought I'd post it here for anyone who might be interested.

http://www.seventhsanctum.com/

It basically generates random things, whether for plots, story-lines, characters, etc. Some of the generators are also silly and simply fun to mess with.

If one needed help thinking something up this would be a good site to get a kick in the right direction. I think it would definitely help if someone was having problems trying to think up a good idea for a character, wanted to give a shot at running an event, or simply needed a fresh idea. You might have to do some digging to actually find the right idea (or a good one xD ) but it's a useful tool to have around.

The weird name generator is especially fun.

"Purple Archivist with a Mouth of Copper That Makes the Steel Coleoseum"

Two pairs of feet slapped hard against stone, running as if Dakkru herself were on their heels. Behind them were shouts, weapons thrown in their direction. Some hit, blood spilled, but it no longer mattered. Mere death fanatics cannot contest with the will of the chosen.

Heavy was their breathing as they ran into deeper and deeper darkness, seeking desperately for the escape to their peril. They met their savior, tall, covered in silver armor, a red mask with a snake curling around it emblazoned on her chest, torch in her hands. The stopped, holding out that which caused their foe to chase them for so long. This was it, their salvation at last.

Her voice cut through their thoughts, "Your sacrifice will not be in vain."

The flames of the torch disappeared, with it the girl. Two more, unworthy and unneeded, to die among the countless, the faceless.

Origins

Among those who choose to follow paths as twisted and dangerous as ours, there have always been those who rise above, and those who are crushed. It is the belief of the Immortal Harrow that those who are destined for greatness are family in all but blood. Termed 'Harratros' by the group's leaders, they feel themselves an immortal people of the Black Flame; a line of prestige and royalty that continues to pass on the harrows, the pains, and sufferings from generation to generation in search of truth.

Harratros are born with the Whisper in their head, born with the capacity and power to lead. They consider themselves nothing short of Royalty.

Purpose

The goals of the Harrow are numerous, many the secret wishes and desires that awaken when ambitious men try to work together. Most seem to work towards their own agenda, however there are a few threads that join them together.

Keeping Secrets Hidden: Above all the Harratros and their workers feel themselves almost as a police force for the Black Flame. In scripture and story warnings are given of the consequences for betrayal, for trying to leave the service of the Whisper or tell its secrets. To deal with those who show even the slightest weakness the Harrow employs slaughter. If they haven't killed you then no doubt some other power did.

Desecration: The gods are believed to be weak. Proof of this is there inability to foresee, plan, and act like the Black Flame. While they hide our faith spreads like a plague through the people. It is for the Black Flame to contend with the other gods. For its people, we contend with religions and those who have found power in their religions. Worship must be destroyed.

Advancement: Though we are destined for power we will not simply stumble upon it. We must continue to seek power, advance ourselves, as we are destined to succeed. Experimentation, combinations of ritualistic practice and magic, and searches made into that which is the past are common for members of the Harrow, all in the goal of finding new power.

The Masquerade

To remain above suspicion for more than just a simple cult the Harrow has taken precautions, publicly allowing themselves to take on many attributes that could be seen in Laanx followers. Many of them wear masks whenever they are not hiding. Those who hide in public claim to be Laanx followers in case they are ever caught.

Dual Masks

Among the Harrow are two symbols, both that could easily thought to be of a Laanx follower. The first is that of a frowning mask with a snake curling around it. Some members have this symbol on articles of clothing or jewelry. This symbol can also often be found burned on bodies of those who are attacked by the Harrow. The second symbol is a smiling mask, though no members ever wear it.

Mask of Fools - This is the frowning mask. It marks one whose blood is to be drained for no other reason than to promote chaos and fear. This mark is burned on, using a metal imprint.

Mask of Whispers - This is the smiling mask. It marks a true enemy to the Harrow. The burn is delivered so that if one dies or fails in killing the enemy others may see it. This mark is usually burned onto the face if it can be done.

Ranking System

Among the Harrow are the self-proclaimed most powerful members of the Black Flame. They do realize that there are too many disputes and differences amongst themselves to work as a small unit efficiently. To deal with this they allow other worthy members of the Black Flame to serve under them. These Loyals make up a majority of the Harrow. Only Harratros have the power to command, their sect known as the Royals.

Loyals

Jester - Jesters are the initiates of the Harrow, forced to adorn masks and act like fanatic Laanx followers, a form of ritualistic hazing. Each of them carries an iron imprint of the Mask of Fools to cause chaos.

Masked Priest - These few carry the Mask of Whispers, their only duty to seek out targeted enemies of the guild and deliver the mark.

Unseen Crusaders - The highest of the loyals, Unseen Crusaders have left behind madness, their purpose now to destroy anything that stands in the way of truth. Known to them as the Unseen Crusade they work to undermine religion wherever they can, efficiently but silently.


Royals

Lord - Lord is the title given to lesser Harratri, of which there are few. They have command over the Loyals, their duties to deal with making sure they do as instructed. Most Lords side with one of the higher Harratri to keep themselves out of harms way. They too, however,  often have secret agendas.  

Masters Whim - The most prestigious of the Royals each feel themselves only second to the Black Flame itself. Because of this arrogance conflict between the ambitious is constant, leaders usually being the member feared the most. A majority of them go by their own, self-appointed, titles, refusing to be addressed to anyone not of their 'same' rank by anything but their title.

The Black Flame - Only the Black Flame itself calls true command over our sect. The Flame's goals surpass our own, its power the only path to truth.

Current Conquests

At this point in time the Harrow has found itself and its focus on the desecration of religion. Its design specifically makes it look like a Laanxist cult, trying to force to public and people to show more hate and dislike for the famed 'Masked God' of Hydlaa.

A majority of the Harrow actually resides in the Death Realm, locked in secret battle with the followers of Dakkru. To those who they fight they still appear as a Laanx cult but make no mistake that the Black Flame comes to destroy the people of death. More and more of the group is returning to Yliakum, at the moment focusing their efforts on the people of Hydlaa and the cities surrounding it.

OOC

Of course, follow the rules of PS, stay in character, realize this guild is made for fun and to be fun for any involved with the plots we carry out.

Know OOCly that Harratros is just a title, created. It doesn't mean anything, impart you with any special powers, or really mean you have any special place with the Black Flame than any other Black Flame faithful.

I must advise you gain access to the Black Flame temple. You -have- to read the books and understand them, no exceptions. I can understand if you've obtained access with other characters and rather not go through the process again but make sure to let us know before hand.

Know before entering the guild that there are plans for a lot of conflict both with outsiders and inside the guild itself. We are all trying to get ahead of each other and if I were you I'd make sure that your character is watching out for themselves as a top priority. For the sake of giving a good starting point my characters, Saggi and Demoik, act as 'leaders' in the guild with Saggi at the top. Go ahead and try to take me down, I welcome the challenge.

Recruitment

War with the people of the death realm has made the Harrow weak, low on members and in need of new Loyals and in search of fellow Harratros. If you've a character or want to make a character to join our cause do so by contacting myself or Skrein through PM or posting here. If you are interested in being a Harratros inform us in the message. You can also speak to us on our forums.

I was asked a few times to make a guide to the text fights a few players use on the RP server. After giving it some thought I figured it would be better if a guide was complied that spoke of a variety of options for fighting as well as some general things to always take into account. Just so everyone is clear, I'm not saying that what I mention here is the correct way to PvP or Text fight. It is just what I think sounds agreeable. Comments, etc are welcome for editing this and making it better.

Types of RP Fighting

There are three kinds of fighting as I see it in PS (though I'm sure that doesn't stop the creation of new kinds), PvP, Turn-based Text Fights, and Turn-based Dice roll fights. PvP is using the system given to us by the game mechanics to fight, the /challenge command. Turn-based Text fights are when players emote attacks, dodges, etc using the /me and /my command. Whether an attack hits or does not is simply decided by the player defending. Turn-based Dice roll fights are the same as Text fights only instead of players deciding how attacks go /roll <number> decides, the higher number being victor.

What's most important to me isn't that you conform to one way or the other. Find the method you enjoy and then play using it. In my own opinion it takes a certain skill to use any of these methods effectively and in a way that both yourself and your opponent enjoys it.

Basic Rules

There are a few things you should always take into account before the fight even happens. You want to do the current settings justice so that when you fight, it makes sense and the outcomes are sensible.

• Always make sure you have a reason for engaging in this fight in the first place. Maybe you were insulted, maybe you are seeking vengeance, maybe you are a gladiator giving entertainment. Make sure you have reasons that do justice to your character ICly. A normally tolerant person wouldn't suddenly go for the kill after being called a name.
• Make sure the nature of the fight fits the environment. Simple enough, drunken bar fights happen in bars, skilled duels in Arena's, battles/guild wars in areas like sewers, roads, etc.
• If you started the fight then yield to the defenders personal preference. Never have I seen this done before but it occurred to me that unless OOCly the player you plan to fight has agreed to it or its pre-planned there is no reason why the attacker should try to argue over whether you PvP, use dice, etc. If you attack someone for IC reasons in the spur of the moment then let the defending player decide how they wish to be attacked.
• Never rely on the in-game evaluation you see at the end of a characters description window as the deciding factor for how you will RP in the fight. Just because it says you are more powerful than the other character is not reason to feel that your every attack must be successful and theirs must fail. These evaluations can be inaccurate so it is better to just ask someone OOCly for their stats if you both agree that stats should help decide.
• If a player wishes to run away from the situation do not stop them from such. In the first one or two turns that should be a completely allowed move without consequence. After getting deeper into the fight there should be a chance that your player cannot escape, determined by both the attacker and attacked.(Explained further below)
• Remember the consequences of your actions. Getting into a fight leads to the chance of IC injury or death. If you do it openly in a city then remember that the guard can and -will- arrest you. My advice is know the laws of Yliakum before even involving yourself with those kinds of things. You don't have to know them ICly but know them OOCly so that you've got a clear understanding of the consequences for whatever you do.

Player Versus Player Fighting

The player versus player mechanic allows players to duel, using weapons, armor, etc they have actually acquired through game play. Your character levels and statistics, in combination with game mechanics decide how hard you hit, etc through the fight.

What I find most important about PvP is the setup. Engaging in a PvP fight is not simply typing /challenge and starting. Firstly, like all fights you've got to obey those basic rules. Next, it is important to setup the fight well. Setup would be the talking/emotes before the battle occurs. I'm not talking about just the provocation before the fight. In my opinion it is great when a player goes through everything before we get to the point where blades clash.

Example: Bad Setup

*Setting: sewers*
Playerone walks up to playertwo, smirking, two blades strapped to his side.
Playertwo: Ah thief! Don't hurt me!
Playerone: /challenge

Example: Good Setup

*Setting: Sewers*
Playerone walks up to playertwo, smirking, two blades strapped to his side.
Playertwo: Ah thief! Don't hurt me!
Playerone draws his blades from their sheaths. He runs at playertwo, ready to attack him furiously, blades coming up for the first strike.
Playerone: /challenge

Doesn't seem very different to you? Well, take the depth you can really put into the battle if you want and look at this instead.

Example: Best Setup

Playerone walks up to playertwo, smirking, two blades strapped to his side.
Playertwo: Ah thief! Don't hurt me!
Playerone spits at the ground, rolling his eyes as he glances down at playertwo, "Pathetic." He goes to   draw his swords, circling around his enemy.
Playertwo stands awestruck, fearing what is to come.
Playerone gives playertwo a glare, tightening the grip on his swords as takes a deep breath of air.
Playertwo's fear causes him to stumble, tripping and falling backwards, hitting the wall.
Playerone takes his opportunity to run charge playertwo, exhaling a breath before running toward him, blades ready to swing and cut cleave flesh at any moment.
Playerone: /challenge

I don't know about you but I much rather be in the last situation presented. It gives such a more interesting setup, makes Playertwo a bit more involved than just some person I decided to kill, and over all just looks better Rp-wise. Honestly, the bare minimum in my opinion is to go with the good example. Try to avoid the 'bad' example just because it provides little RP. You could easily do the bad example over and give it more quality in those few lines too. There's no need to over-setup a situation with lines and lines of text before you actually fight.

Text Fighting

Text fighting is done in numerous ways, by numerous people. The basic concept is that every attack is typed out through emote, following by a dodge/resist/hit emote by the attacked. Then the attacked has his/her turn to attack, etc. To text fight in an acceptable manner you have to keep a few things in mind, mainly the settings, your attack emotes, and godmodding.

Settings

One of the things some players like about text fights is it allows them to tell the story of the battle right as you fight. The other thing many like is it allows one to do things that game mechanics does not support, or will not support. Whether that is good or bad I won't say but, so long as people will do it there should be a rule for it. I think its important that what you use, while possibly not in the game's current mechanics or never planned to be, must make sense within the games settings. This doesn't just go for those who use crazy spells. It is just as easy to go overboard in the class of melee/weapons and such.

When it comes to spellcasting the distinction of what is and isn't in the settings usually comes easy. In my opinion spells you create should either be inspired from spells that already exist or will exist. If not, they should be things that fit reasonably in the settings. For example, you've got glyphs that send balls of fire at players. You've got blue way that has to do with ice and such. Would it be easy to perceive that a player could have a glyph that sends a ball of ice at the opponent? Yes, probably without stretching the imagination too much. Now, would it be a good idea to have an insta-killing glyph? Not really, it can fit in the settings but it is a bit of a stretch and much too powerful for a player to force that fate on other players. It would still be possible to pull off and have fun for all, just not the best choice. Would it be a good idea to have a glyph that summoned the god Hecate from the realm of chaos? Totally out of settings to a point that it makes no sense.

Weapons aren't much different. Things like longswords, axes, etc are obviously in the game. What about things like spears? Still an understandable weapon for the games setting. Halbard? Maybe. Katana? You are pushing it and if a player wants to argue with you they are totally in their rights, though it is still imaginable. Machine gun? I don't think so. Thats where you know you've gone over the top.

Emotes

There are probably any number of different ways to emote a sword attack with the same type of sword, the same number of ways to emote a spell if everyone is using the same one. Length is up to the player, some love reading paragraphs that could just be for one attack, others prefer one or two short sentences, etc. Try to find a happy medium with whoever you are fighting against. What is important is you get the level of description you want in the emote and you give justice to the length of time it might take you to do things.

The first thing is to give your emote the level of description you want it to have. The reason it is important is because many times another play may not interpret your attack the way you thought it need be interpreted and my not ask you OOCly with questions. Avoid that kind of thing by clearly explaining the attack, where the attack is aimed, and if you must (I suggest OOCly or within the emote) what the attack is meant to do if that may not be obvious.

Bad Emote Example

Playerone slashes at playertwo with his sword.

Good Emote Example

Playerone makes a horizontal slash at playertwo's right hand, attempting to disarm him.

That good example was specific and for those who do not like extremely long attacks it did a fine job of doing what you need. If you want to be a little longer for the sake of being more descriptive you are welcome to it, just don't spend all your time trying to describe how painful your attack will be if it hits. Don't always say where the attack will land if it hits. You are in a battle. If your character has the time to think out every blow I predict they will be moving at a bit of a slower pace, unless you ICly pause sometimes. If you want exact attacks every time than be willing to take the time.

When emoting you need to consider the time it takes to make the movements you wish to make. Honestly, if you want you can bunch it all up in one long paragraph for your turn but I as a player will then have the right to counter attack between attacks. Spell casters should take that into account too. Not every spell you have will cast instantly. Some of them you may want to RP to take several turns to completely cast. For example I can do this:

Playerone fires a couple of crystal way arrows at Playertwo before drawing his swords and going to slice with both blades at his chest him.

Is it a bad emote? No. It is perfectly fine. However I have to be prepared for something like this:

Playertwo hit slightly in the side by one of the arrows, rolling on the ground while the rest whizz overhead, moving his sword to go for Playerone's legs before Playerone can get to him.

Or something completely different. The attacked still has the power to avoid multiple attacks because the time it will take for you to make all these motions will still be in effect. On the opposite side of things, just because someone emotes multiple attacks in one turn wouldn't mean that you should get angry at them. Roll with the punches if you will, you see what they are doing, now insert your reaction within, outside of, whatever.

When it comes to spells, the same rules apply. For casting longer spells sometimes its nice not to put everything in one long emote but instead to take the time to emote out separate parts of the spell-casting process. Regardless of which you choose a player can still stick their emote in when they wish.

Godmodding

God-modeling, also known as being over-powered (OP), is no doubt the thing you must me most cautious about in a Text Fight. The easiest way to deal with it is to consider that your character is no more powerful than your opponent allows them to be. This doesn't mean your opponent can decide to be stronger than your character because guess what, they have to take the same rule into account. There is no easy way to describe how to avoid godmodding, but some classic signs of godmodding are easy to spot:

• Dodging every attack your opponent throws at you or taking a majority of the attacks and being 'barely' effected. Never dodge everything unless there was some OOC agreement on both sides. Same for being barely effected. Unless you've got reasons that have been agreed on with both parties take attacks and be hurt.
• Despite being in poor condition or heavily wounded you are able to continue fighting. I don't care if you have max Endurance and Will, you are not going to continue to fight when your every emote includes the massive amount of blood dripping on the ground from your body. At least, you aren't going to fight at the same speed and power as before.
• Despite being outnumbered you OOCly think you can still win. This is another one of the times when I think stats don't matter as much. If you've got to take down 3 people who have never even touched swords its different. But if they all are even a bit skilled then you can put up a fight but expect to lose and don't waste your time dragging the fight on to the point that it is unrealistic.
• Don't add things like *a movement so fast that it is a blur to your eyes* in your emote. You are saying that you moved so fast that your opponent couldn't see you. Thats not fair seeing as you should let your opponent decide that.
• Never think that everything you do doesn't have a negative effect. Every time you swing that blade realize your character is getting a bit more tired. Every time you cast a spell you lose a little more magic. If you want that spell or that attack to be more powerful than ordinary, make sure you are prepared to lose more than ordinary as well.
• Your opponent is always the one to decide the final outcome of your attack. Just because you say you aimed for the chest, doesn't mean your opponent couldn't emote the attack landing elsewhere, possibly because their character tried to move out of the way. The same goes for you deciding the effects of his/her attacks.
  

Dice Fighting

Dice fighting is the same as Text Fighting with one fundamental difference. To remove a lot of the godmodding that happens you /roll a dice. Whoever has the higher roll wins the ability to decide the outcome of the attack. For example if this happens:

Playerone goes and attacks player two with his daggers.
Playerone: /roll
Playertwo: /roll
Playerone rolls for 5.
Playertwo rolls for 6.

Playertwo, because he/she was able to roll a higher number can now emote blocking, deflecting, etc.

Playertwo leaps to the side, avoiding the attack.

Then another attack would come up, this time with playertwo as the attacker. Often, players do different things to make dice roll fights rely less on luck. Sometimes they add modifiers to the dice, like after becoming tired instead of /roll 50 you can only /roll 25. Sometimes they roll stats. Example is if I attack and you defend I /roll my strength level against your agility. Dice can make things very fair, very complex, or sometimes just too heavily related to luck, depending on your preference. Just make sure you decide on a dice system to follow in the beginning of the fight and stick to it. Keep in mind the basics and all thats been mentioned for Text Fighting and you should be fine.

Running Away

Trying to run away from a fight is a difficult place for one to make a rule. The reason why is, to the runner it is only fair that they have the chance to avoid danger if it is unwelcome, both IC and OOC. To the attacker, it isn't fair when everyone just runs away and doesn't give them a chance. Players need to firstly keep in mind that they might be making it harder for fellow players to enjoy the game in their own way. Attackers might make it hard for players who don't like conflict RP. Runners may make it hard for those who do like conflict RP.

For those who want to run, keep the following in mind:

• Don't bother going into areas like the sewers, the Howling well, the banished camp, etc without expecting the chance for being attacked. As soon as you step into an unlawful area realize that there are players who like to carry out unlawful RP and may be there, seeking some.
• Unless it is for OOC reasons give those who wish to attack a chance. ICly your character may run, yes. ICly those attackers can follow you, chase you, try to attack you from long range. Unless you feel discomforted with the RP OOCly then do realize that these players are trying to have fun too.

For attackers I suggest doing one of the two listed here:

• Adopt a warning system of some sort. OOCly inform a player that they have stepped or may be stepping into a dangerous RP. Explain to them that you are just after fun if you feel it need be. Give them the chance to walk away from the situation before it starts. Obviously if a player steps into an unlawful area as mentioned above they lose privilege to this warning. If they complain OOCly let them go but let them know that they took the step into an area where it only makes sense that they are attacked.
• If a player specifically requests OOCly to not be involved with an attack or something of the sort, you leave them be. If resistance is purely IC than you continue, so long as your attempts are reasonable. To make the player willing to this sort of RP in the future try and make it as fun for them as it may be for you. Make the RP experience interesting, not just you and a bunch of your friends killing for kicks.

Dealing With Disputes

Sometimes you will find yourself in a position where you and the person you are fighting with don't agree. Regardless of whether you are PvPing or using some kind of Text fighting Disputes can happen. Keep these ideas in mind to avoid and help solve disputes.

Grouping to have a channel for OOC chat before the fight always helps to keep the fight rolling on smoothly. You keep OOC out of the main channel and it helps keep the atmosphere, especially for those who might be onlookers.

When in PvP a common thing to do after the challenge has been accepted is to have both the challenger and the challenged jump. The jump is OOC, just to make sure that both players have a fair start at the same time. Obviously it doesn't matter as much for things like sneak attacks or assaulting someone but for an actual duel it is helpful. You wouldn't want to be scrambling to write a last minute emote while you are being attacked.

One thing about dice that is useful is the ability to use them when you Text fight someone you've never met or aren't exactly comfortable with. Everyone has a different way of playing and because of that what some people do may come off as Godmodding to others yet be acceptable to some. There really isn't a single way to Text Fight that everyone can agree on. If you ever find yourself in need of a way to keep things fair using dice is your best bet.

Often regular text fights end in a lot of OOC argument, one or both of the players accusing the other of godmodding. If there is truly a problem between the players in question then just step away from the situation and cancel the RP. If you feel it is just a misunderstanding but you rather avoid more than take a look at one of the other styles of fighting. Maybe /roll for the final outcome or PvP for the winner. It is better to find some way to end it rather than go on arguing. If you realize the other player will be upset for whatever reason at their character losing sometimes its better to take the loss or offer up just canceling the fight altogether.

Additional Information

For additional information and added opinions I would try looking here. You'll find additional information to this topic, written by Aiwendil, that may help you understand Fighting in general better, as well as give you an idea as to your preferred way to fight.

Meeting

Dark entrance. Stone steps. Murky waters. Disgusting creatures. Dieseased men. Broken gates. The torches.

I entered, black robes worn to signifiy the importance of his meeting. After all, it was the master I was talking to, not just some everyday fanatic.

"Did you find her?" called his voice, face and body hidden in crimson robes. I grinned, nodding, "Of course." She wasn't even a challenge. Easy to find, easy to lure. A game up till the very end. Its almost a shame she's no longer important.

"Then I assume you've obtained 'it'?" he said. It's never like him to do anything but get to the point so I might as well not waste my time talking. "Yes, I've got what you asked."

"Then go. You know what you must do. Stay silent and hidden and you'll find your next target within the Howling well. Complete your mission then leave Hydlaa to Oja. You will be called on there for the next step. Remember, no unnecessary conflict." Always brief and to the point with him. I nodded, turning to exit when I heard his voice again, knowing without turning that his glare was burning into my back, "Don't fail me again."  My head fell as I left, walking quickly towards my next goal. My attack will be swift, its effect disastrous. 

The torches. Broken gates. Diseased men. Disgusting creatures. Murky waters. Stone steps. Bright exit.

Foreshadow

Be prepared Yliakum, prepared for the coming of storms. A new age approaches, one that promises to be different than any this realm has ever seen. The goddess shall rise, putting all other religions to shame. Those who refuse to submit shall die. Those who side against the mistress shall have their souls cleansed by joining her in the end. War will consume the city, a struggle fated to end on the day of her comming. The skies will darken and the true power of the goddess will be known. Her army will be the salvation of her followers and the death of all who opposed her divine rule. In the end the great sun shall fall and the realm shall be built anew, a kingdom for Dakkru to rule.

[I will be searching for Dakkru followers to help me with this and its sure to be fun  Also, its a foreshadow because its not starting right away so don't take those words as something I told you icly. If your interested in helping send me a PM on the forums.]

[Just going to say a quick thank you for everyone who go involved in this very intro part. It was fun and I promise that was just the begining  Here are the chat logs, ripped of the OOC nonsense.]

(20:19:30) Desot slowly walks downstairs
(20:19:41) Indygo says: It is written by a dear friend of mine by the name of Illysia...
(20:19:45) Indygo clears his throat.
(20:20:08) Indygo says: Dwarves..
(20:20:13) Indygo says: Tis a curious creature these
(20:20:19) Indygo says: That often one meets with ease.
(20:20:26) Indygo says: Loyal and true without a doubt,
(20:20:28) Ulfer rests his mug and listens with curiosity
(20:20:35) Indygo says: yet prone to fights long drawn out.
(20:20:37) Knipart forgets his mug
(20:20:42) Indygo says: Rest they will with ale a plenty
(20:20:42) Silavur sniffs as if he smells something odd in the air
(20:20:45) Desot's eyes wander around, looking at everyone
(20:20:48) Indygo says: Then work lon to serve the many.
(20:20:55) Indygo says: Argue and bicker with friend and foe,
(20:21:07) Indygo says: but trustworthy their friends well know.
(20:21:12) Indygo says: Should you happen a friend to keep
(20:21:20) Indygo says: That is a dwarf of which I speak.
(20:21:31) Indygo says: A good riend you'll no doubt have,
(20:21:37) Indygo says: But they will drive you truly mad.
(20:21:41) Indygo smiles.
(20:21:42) Orden takes a cursory glance at Desot
(20:21:49) Knipart says: Beautiful.
(20:22:05) Indygo says: I love that poem, but it has some sentimental meaning as well.
(20:22:09) Zwenze applauds
(20:22:11) Knipart says: To Illysia. And to you for so beautifully reciting it
(20:22:17) Knipart makes a toast
(20:22:21) Desot coughs, a horrible smell coming from his mouth
(20:22:26) Indygo raises his mug "Peko' en felimior!"
(20:22:37) Ulfer reminises
(20:22:42) Silavur walks back down into the basement with a cautious air
(20:22:52) Orden nudges Zwen
(20:23:10) Orden says: "We seem ta have a visitor.."
(20:23:11) Zwenze sniffs as it starts to get smelly. He looks at his boots and is reliefed as he realizes he did not step into a pile of trepor dung.
(20:23:31) Silavur looks at Desot curiously from across the room
(20:23:37) Knipart says: Boah. Must get something to cover my nostrils
(20:24:03) Anarkia eyes the dwarves.
(20:24:23) Knipart points to Desot: Who is that fella?
(20:24:28) Desot coughs a little more, the stench coming from his mouth smelling like something rotten
(20:24:45) Zwenze looks around and notices Desot
(20:24:47) Ulfer says: ... who trumped?
(20:25:03) Knipart suddenly runs to a corner, vomitting
(20:25:07) Knipart says: Belch
(20:25:16) Zwenze says: Ewwww
(20:25:23) Desot turns around
(20:25:40) Orden puts one hand on a battle hammer cautiously, eyes not leaving Desot for a second
(20:25:47) Zwenze shouts: "Allelia, costs for cleaning tavern go on the hammers"
(20:25:52) Knipart says: Need fresh air in here. Someone should open a window
(20:26:08) Desot puts his hand on his back, grabbing his blade
(20:26:24) Knipart eyes Desot suspiciously
(20:26:33) Orden's gaze turns into a glare, "Zwen.."
(20:26:41) Indygo looks around the room "Exscuse me a moment..."
(20:26:47) Indygo heads up the stairs.
(20:26:52) Anarkia says: What's goin' on?
(20:27:06) Orden says: "Anarkia, I dont think ye should be here lassie.."
(20:27:12) Zwenze says: Yeah, orden?
(20:27:21) Anarkia frowns. "Don't tell me what to do, dwarf."
(20:27:21) Ulfer says: hmph
(20:27:24) Desot takes on last glance of the members in the room, clenching the blade tightly
(20:27:27) Orden says: "Mayhaps e should turn around.."
(20:27:40) Silavur stalks in closer, placing his hand on his plades
(20:27:55) Zwenze takes out some short swords
(20:27:58) Orden puts his other hand on his other battle hammer
(20:28:04) Ulfer says: dont ye be thinking it laddie.
(20:28:08) Knipart graps his axes
(20:29:33) Desot lets out a savage roar, his hood falling, revealing the head of somethind disgusting, his face decayed and corpse like, hairs wild and falling out, eyes with no pupil
(20:29:47) Knipart says: Yikes
(20:29:50) Anarkia says: ...Niiice.
(20:29:50) Ulfer says: what foul sorcery is this!?
(20:29:57) Orden says: "Probably Xeonart's work.."
(20:30:15) Zwenze says: "Ewww. Thats disgusting"
(20:30:20) Silavur gasps inaudibly and concentrates on Desot's location, "Darkness" And casts the spell
(20:30:28) Orden says: "Aye.."
(20:31:09) Desot looks around, suddenly surrounding in an orb of darkness
(20:31:28) Silavur creeps in behind the now blinded creature
(20:31:37) Orden mutters a spell and flames dart down into the hammer glowing a bright red
(20:31:56) Anarkia watches Silavur closely. "Where are you goin'?"
(20:32:06) Orden says: "Anarkia..."
(20:32:24) Silavur whips a sword out and stabs down at Desot's neck
(20:32:53) Anarkia ignores Orden.
(20:33:13) Desot lets out a dark cry, the sword piercing his neck
(20:33:39) Silavur lets his other sword aim at Desot's lower back
(20:33:42) Orden says: "Perhaps a warrior raised from the dead.."
(20:34:17) Zwenze says: "I would prefer a tooth brush salesman. That smell is disgusting"
(20:34:21) Desot screams again, however no blood appears on his body from either wound
(20:34:21) Knipart says: Bah. Dead should stay dead
(20:34:26) Anarkia says: Silavur, what are you doing?
(20:34:36) Orden says: "Killing it Anarkia.."
(20:34:56) Anarkia says: He's already dead...ish.
(20:35:07) Orden gives Zwenze a look as if asking him a question
(20:35:50) Desot's eyes rise, again looking around the room
(20:35:51) Zwenze shakes head
(20:36:13) Orden moves back slightly at Zwenze's signal
(20:36:21) Silavur looks at the creatures next move from his backed in position in the corner
(20:36:58) Ulfer says: ye not want'n anythin from 'dis dwarf. Ye best leave here 'n one piece
(20:37:02) Zwenze shouts: "Mord stay back"
(20:37:14) Mordastyr sits down to enjoy the show.
(20:37:43) Desot suddenly lets out another cry of pain, the veins in his eyes popping as a dark V appears on his head
(20:37:50) Silavur is seemingly confused as his attacks show no avail.
(20:38:03) Orden says: "Aye thats Xeonart's work."
(20:38:26) Mordastyr giggles at the pain the Ynnwn is suffering.
(20:38:30) Knipart says: How do you kill a creature that is already dead?
(20:38:37) Anarkia sighs. "Silavur, I don't think you can kill him."
(20:38:40) Orden says: "Throuch cunning laddie."
(20:39:01) Desot calms down, suddenly attacking Orden, swiftly trying to stab at his chest
(20:39:21) Orden hops to the side parrying the strike
(20:39:26) Silavur concentrates again , "You burn him. Fire" He lets the spell run from him at Desot's back
(20:39:40) Zwenze stabs Desots arms to prevent the attack
(20:39:46) Mordastyr gets bored of watching the brawl, and, deciding that nobody here wants to buy an apple, he stands and leaves.
(20:40:05) Desot lets out a scream of pain, the fire lighting his body
(20:40:25) Silavur walks up, "That seemed to do the trick"
(20:40:36) Orden says: "Not yet.."
(20:40:40) Desot falls to the ground, the flames subsiding
(20:40:42) >Desot Mornos takes a seat.
(20:40:52) Orden says: "Thats way to easy.."
(20:41:27) Silavur shrugs, "Xeonart's work isn't always as strong as he is. Not everything goes as planned. I'm proof of that"
(20:41:47) Ulfer grunts his disapproval
(20:41:48) Desot suddenly hops up, dark flames launching from his body
(20:41:57) Knipart wonders what he has gotten into.
(20:41:58) Orden says: "I figured.."
(20:42:24) Knipart says: When this is over, you need to explain to me a lot.
(20:42:29) Orden aims both his hammers at Desot in a twirling strike flames dancing over the weapons
(20:42:35) Ulfer rushes at Desot flailing his axes and shouting Dwarve curses
(20:42:37) Knipart says: If we survive this.
(20:42:58) Knipart attacks Desot with his Axes
(20:43:02) Knipart says: Charge!
(20:43:03) Zwenze says: Ulfer, beware. He is one or two numbers to big
(20:43:21) Desot gets hit by all the attacks, being knocked backwards into the wall
(20:43:34) Silavur shouts, "STAND BACK! Obviously weapons do little!"
(20:43:48) Knipart backs up
(20:43:51) Zwenze aims at the V at the forehead and casts a spell: "Energy arrow"
(20:43:54) Indygo walks back down the stairs seeing the dwarves armed.
(20:44:25) Anarkia jumps onto the back of the chair and balances, amused.
(20:44:26) Desot gets hit in the head, the energy suddenly sending white flames around his body as he drops to the ground
(20:44:37) Indygo wrinkles his nose from the putrid smell.
(20:44:44) Orden steps in front of Zwenze protectively
(20:44:50) Silavur casts defensive wind around him and adds fire to it. He directs the flame smipe at Desot's already injured body
(20:44:57) Ulfer joins the ranks of dwarves
(20:45:18) Ulfer spins around and glares at Madinon
(20:45:21) Orden casts flame burst at Desot as well, joining silavur's attack
(20:45:26) Desot's body is consumed by the flames, he yelling madly
(20:45:47) Silavur concentrates further, intensifying the flames and not stopping
(20:45:56) Knipart watches astounished
(20:46:10) Desot's flesh starts to burn, the flames consuming it
(20:46:22) Knipart says: Uh, what a horrible sight
(20:46:26) Ulfer realises Madinons intentions are not hostile
(20:46:38) Anarkia giggles. "Roast undead, anyone?"
(20:46:45) Orden's ring "By Talad that smells."
(20:47:09) Knipart says: I wonder, who must clean ip that mess
(20:47:10) Silavur hears no more screams and ceases his magic, looking slightly weakened from his efforts
(20:47:32) Desot falls to the ground, his body a mass of burned flesh
(20:47:35) Orden says: "I would be still having yet guard up."
(20:47:53) Orden says: "Zwen, what do ye propose?"
(20:48:10) Anarkia says: Great. I'm not workin' this shift anymore.
(20:48:15) Zwenze says: "Throwig some wood on him and buring him totally"
(20:48:30) Orden stops his magic attack steppign back armors still in a guard position and nods at Zwen.
(20:48:31) Ulfer says: ah. ye neana worry
(20:48:46) Orden grabs a few logs and tosses them at Desot
(20:48:47) Knipart carefully picks some logs from the fireplace
(20:48:53) Ulfer kicks Desots burning corpse into the fireplace
(20:48:56) Knipart throws them at Desot
(20:49:00) Ulfer says: Drinks anyone?
(20:49:03) Orden says: "Not to close Knipart."
(20:49:30) Zwenze shoots a frosty glare at Ulfer: "Thats no joke here"
(20:49:31) Knipart says: I will be carefull
(20:49:40) Silavur takes down his armor but prepares his magic
(20:50:20) Ulfer says: joke!? I do not sprout jokes for your pleasure, Zwenze. It is clear to me there is no honour in this fight.
(20:50:39) Orden says: "Ulfer, there seldom is in fighting.."
(20:50:46) Orden says: "Not these days."
(20:50:49) Knipart says: But we could not let this hung of rotten flesh walk the streets
(20:50:54) Zwenze says: "If this is Xeonarts work then the fight hasn't started yet"
(20:51:23) Silavur looks at Desot's charred remains and awaits something.
(20:51:51) Zwenze says: "I would not be surprised if that char coal jumps up and shout booooh at me"
(20:52:06) Orden says: "Aye.."
(20:52:12) Ulfer says: hmph
(20:52:14) Knipart says: I don't hope so
(20:53:15) Zwenze says: "And now?"
(20:53:27) Ulfer says: this foul putrid demon has not stirred, it dies like any other being.
(20:54:00) Ulfer says: nothin my axes cannot solve.
(20:54:03) Orden says: "Ulfer...do ye know so little about the dark way?"
(20:54:16) Orden says: "Stay back, and keep yer guard up."
(20:54:32) Desot's flesh finishes burning, something standing out within the remains, shining from the flame's light
(20:54:56) Orden says: "By Talad's glyphs.."
(20:55:05) Ulfer says: Dark way? I trust no magic, they are all tha same.
(20:55:09) Silavur reaches in with a sword and lifts it out
(20:55:19) Orden says: "Be careful Silavur.."
(20:55:22) Silavur doesn't touch the item but observes it
(20:55:36) Anarkia hops off the chair to get a closer look. "What is it?".
(20:55:57) Silavur looks closer, "There is an inscription"
(20:56:17) Orden gets a little closer to Zwenze
(20:56:25) Orden says: "Ulfer.."
(20:56:52) Zwenze says: "What does the inscription say?"
(20:57:13) Anarkia's nose twitches at the scent of rot. She waits for Silavur's answer.
(20:57:16) Ulfer says: it has not stirred, I fail to see the need for caution.
(20:57:31) Ulfer is still under the influence of beer
(20:57:39) Knipart says: If it could rise from the dead once...
(20:57:41) Silavur takes a deep breath and picks up the item in his hand. His face tenses as if waiting for something but nothing occurs
(20:58:22) Anarkia says: Hm, Silavur, I wouldn't touch that if I were you... which I'm glad I'm not.
(20:58:47) Silavur reads, "A gift to the tavern. It is signed, The King of Decayers, Hand of Darkness"
(20:59:10) Silavur's eyes widen
(20:59:27) Ulfer says: I say we send them back the head.
(20:59:37) Zwenze says: "What the heck? This person was nothing more then a gift? A perverted talda $@!$ gift?"
(21:00:02) Orden says: "He was a warrior once..the corpse looked old."
(21:00:11) Orden says: "But ye could tell."
(21:00:30) Silavur says: Isn't that...wasn't that what....
(21:00:37) Redde says: hello all
(21:00:38) Anarkia turns on her heel, glaring at Zwenze. She turns back to Silavur. "I thought he had... the True Death?"
(21:00:38) Ulfer says: by the gods! another!
(21:00:54) Silavur inhales, "Isn't that what Duraza was called?" He shakes his head in fear

Duraza stands in the plaza, his body falling apart and his face filled with pure regret. Nixe sits behind him, just enjoying his sorrow.

"To think....all these years....my life has been wasted...Plotting, fighting, killing, enslaving, and even dieing. All for this...All for nothing...all wasted in the end. All to fail. It seems life was pointless...Why is it that fate stands against me?" Duraza says, staring upwards.

Nixe simply smiles and nods in agreement. Meanwhile a ylian walks up to Duraza. "I know the feeling, no hope.." Arcov says.

Duraza looks to Arcov "And who are you?"

"I am a knight in your son's guild."

"So what..?"

"He's told me about you, and says he plans to follow in your footsteps. Your Decayers have joined us to help him."

Duraza stares blankly at Arcov for a few moments, almost confused as to what Arcov is saying, then slowly his lips start to curl up, higher and higher as his eyes become set ablaze as if by new life, a dark and twisted smile forming on his face as he breaks out into a maniacal laugh, once again staring upwards, "It seems like you've failed again fate! Despite your tries to make me lose you yourself have lost. My son shall take my place. The world will be set ablaze by my ambition. My goals, my lifes work will be accomplished by those still loyal to my blood and the name of Darkom shall be heard! Heard from the mouths of women screaming. Heard from the cries of souls entering death. Heard till the world itself is at end."

Arcov stares at Duraza and Nixe stands, her eyes narrowing, while Duraza starts to shout, "The Darkom name shall be burned into the minds of all who stood agaisnt me. All who shall stand agaisnt my son. And all who were our foes shall fall before the feet, the feet of he who calls himself Darkom!" Duraza then calms down, but his dark smile does not fade,  "My only regret is that was probably the greatest speech any man will ever hear, yet so few did."

People around the plaza begin to stare and mutter as Duraza suddenly starts to cough up blood. He falls the the ground quickly, pain overwhelming him. Somehow, through the pain, he still smiles, blood dripping from his mouth while he speaks, "Remember those who came before you. Fear to your allies, death to your enemies.." After those words Duraza falls over, his eyes going blank as the blood continues to overflow from his mouth.

And so ends Duraza Darkom, Unholy Guardian, Chainmaster, Leader of the Decayers, the Hand of Darkness.