Homework in a Graveyard.

Abaracadabara

2011-08-23T18:03:00.000-04:00

"Abaracadabara". No word strikes more fear into a wizard of Our Spiral. It is the word of deletion, of endings, of finality. It is a word for The Graveyard.

After much consideration, I have decided to permanently retire HiaG. This is a measured decision, not a "rage quit", or some declaratory statement, simply the end of a cycle. HiaG shall , henceforth, become a static Historical Archive.

"All good things must come to an end...even the not-so-good things". Barring some unforeseen circumstance, this will be the final post for HiaG. Do not mourn it, celebrate it. We've had an excellent run. And hey, I got to go out with a "bang". (see what I did, there?)

First, and foremost, I want to thank KingsIsle, (and specifically Professor Greyrose) for the Honor and opportunity to represent Wizard 101. It has been a privileged to watch Our Spiral grow from a cottage 'indie' title to a "20 million + " shining beacon of kid-friendly gaming. It is a growth I fully expect to continue.

Secondly, I want to thank my Mentor and Inspiration, my peers, and my siblings. Friends old and new. I cannot possibly hope to "name names" without missing someone. You all know who you are. Our Spiral is better for having you in it. I am better for having met you.

Unlike some of my peer's sites, HiaG never expanded beyond being a critical eye, scrutinizing the developments of Our Spiral, as we have known it, then and now. It holds no intrinsic value to the modern player, except for expose and critique. We, as a Community, and KingsIsle, as a Company, have long outgrown the "need" for a grassroots site like HiaG. So, with dignity, and a sense of nostalgic pride, I dutifully step down, and rescind my "Official" status. I shall be just another wizard. Autumn Duskhunter transcends the Graveyard. I shall still be a presence, in Our Spiral, but not as a "name" or a "rank". Just as myself.

There is nothing more I can say, that has not been said before, therefore, this Opus finds it's restful conclusion. But with this ending, I charge upon you, My Community, a final request: Rob the Graveyard. Dissect it, search it, use it as a compost for the next generation of growth. Everybody knows that a single dandelion, left unchecked, can pave the way for hundreds, if not thousands more.Take whatever seeds of inspiration you can glean from "Homework", and make it your own. This is the cycle of life. Build upon what's already gone before, refine it, strengthen it. You, as a Community, have this ability in spades.

Don't be sad at HiaG's conclusion. Revel in it's time in Our Spiral. Put the "Fun" in "Funeral". You don't need a leader to see, you need to see the leader in yourself. To paraphrase Ghandi "Be the change you want to see in Our Spiral". I seek no eulogy or ritual of passage, however (knowing the symbolic nature of some of our wizards), should you feel compelled to Memorialize "Homework", in-game, a simple unharvested Elder/Ghost Dandelion is sufficient.

Remember, the strength of Our Spiral comes not from a server, or an artist's concept, or a patch. WE are the force that keeps Our Spiral spinning. It has been an awe-inspiring privileged to watch you all grow.

Be excellent to each other. Your Homework, here, is complete. You all get an A+, by me.
And, as always, my final wish:
Be Well.

Booom-checka-lekka! House winners.

2011-08-22T14:58:00.002-04:00

The Answer:

Why are we here?

The Code

Because we're here

Persistence

Roll the bones

word is.

PERSISTENCE was the correct answer. Fortunately, spelling did NOT count. ;) The message folded in on itself, it was not "guessable" until actually completed. The lines in orange are actually song lyrics, (and it's "Roll" the bones, not "Joll"(?!?) or "Troll". - it means to throw the dice.

Well over 100 of you got the correct answer, but there can be only 10, so, per random.org, here are the winners:

The above listed must comment me their emails (on this post- will NOT be published), using the same login as listed above, and I will have them out, immediately.

"Time is of the essence", here, so sooner is better.

Here comes the BOOM!

2011-08-13T03:58:00.002-04:00

Ah, Autumn's Death House. "The Malistaire Memorial Death Academy". An ancient structure (by W101 standards). Very few have ever set foot on these deathly grounds. Those that have, have left with lasting impressions..(mostly good). ;) It is the only house I've truly gone out of my way to decorate.

What secret and mysterious things take place inside? Is it home to the Skullinatti? Is it HQ for the "Student Committee for Tenure for Dworgyn"? Does Autumn imprison other bloggers here? Why are there Swiftshadow feathers everywhere? So many questions, that cannot be answered here. (And forget the whole "Skullinatti" thing, they don't really exist...really.)

For those of you who have never set foot in any Death House, please allow me to present the video from Wizard101extreme, which gives you a pretty good idea what to expect:

A coveted piece of Real Estate.People are dying to get in.Or out.

And now, thanks to the supreme generosity of KingsIsle, you too can own the quintessential domicile of Necromantic studies. 10 lucky winners of this year's "House-a-palooza" can add this undead abode to their housing roster. Get yourself outta that Dorm room!

Ah, but here's the catch: "Nothing worth having ever comes free". You know, I'd just *love* to give everyone a Death House, but alas, I cannot. Therefore, there shall be skill, and luck involved in acquiring said house. Remember the "8 bit Trials"? I betcha do. What was the most evil, aggravating, and nerve-wracking challenge I could send at your Guardians? A Puzzle. Oh, yes, and they were kind enough to highlight their solving strategies, so I have re-engineered the mechanics of this one.(Thank you, Guardians!) Click the pic below to link to your "Doom and Gloom Housing Boom" puzzle. There's a code word in that there mess. Post it in the comments, and you're entered!

Click on me for the puzzle (and to clean up Autumn's Lab).

(Okay, here's the backstory: I was trying to re-skin a bone dragon mount (Yeah, bad idea, I know that now), and the re-animation lab kinda went 'boom'. I'm too lazy to clean it myself, so I'm bribing you to do it.)

Da Rules. (Read 'em, know 'em, follow 'em)
1) One entry, per person. You only get the one shot, so make it count! Spelling is 'optional'.
2) Entry winners will be notified to submit their e-mail (will not be published) using the same login as their initial entry.
3) In the event there are more than ten (10) correct entries, the 10 will be chosen by random.org
4) Entries must be submitted no later than ( August 22nd). A countdown timer is provided.
5) Winners will be given the (optional) opportunity to tour Autumn's Death House, for decorating ideas, and inclusion in a group photo, to be published at HiaG) &lt;--- Wow! Double prizes!
6) Codes must be redeemed at http://www.wizard101.com/promo

Click, click, BOOM!

2011-08-12T14:59:00.001-04:00

That's right, readers, another "palooza". You *gotta* love KI, amiright?

HiaG is happy to be included in this, and we're rocking the Death House!

Contest details forthcoming!

Starting August 12th through August 23rd,
save up to 50% OFF Housing Items in the Crown Shop!

Houses and Housing Items are up to 50% OFF!
Over 50 new housing items added to the Crown Shop
Get a free housing item when you log into the Wizard101 game
Fansite contests, code giveaways and more!

Integrity in gaming, and in life.

2011-08-11T16:01:00.003-04:00

Hiya, peeps.

I know, I know, "Where have you been?!?". Those of you who actually know me, know that I am "a bit" of a Beta Butterfly. By "a bit", I mean "The Titanic had 'a bit' of a leak". Although W101 is my Home, and shall remain so, I do dabble quite frequently in the latest Betas. "Have to see, have to know".

There is one coming up that I'm really looking forward to. Since Homework is a 100% W101 site, I won't advertise is (directly), but if you were to add a Fireplace with a waterFall, you'd get the idea.

"So, why are you even posting it, here, Autumn"?

Because, gentle reader, as always, there is a tie-in.

You all know by now, that (until recently) , I don't PvP...ever. I'm "All PvE, all the time". Well, this upcoming game is a "shooter", so I thought I'd go find a game that would (relatively) get me some practice time.

I chose a Sorta 4 League of Hackers, it seems. I cannot recommend this game in good conscience. It has almost ALL the things I despise in a game. "Gashapon" lottery, timed items, and most importantly "Lack of Game Integrity", i.e. hackability. In this post, I use the term "hacker" as synonymous with "exploiter", as well.

"I wanna be a real gamer, when I grow up"

2 days in a row, instead of getting into a 20-minute match, I got into (2) separate 3 HOUR matches. Yeah, you read that right, each of these games was 1 hour, 30 minutes, per half. And that's two days in a row.

( I've done EndGame Raids that took less time than this.)

In theory, I *could* have left the matches early, but I'd take a penalty for "abandoning game". I have a policy of "Never quit a match. Win with Honor, lose with Honor", so I was bound by my own code to ride out each of these modified matches, and it wasn't pretty. It was like prison time, instead of gaming.

The room I got caught in last night, had not one, not two, not three, but FOUR unrelated hackers in it. "God Modes", all of them. Unlimited ammo (without reloading), infinite flight, ability to exist "outside the map", OneShotKill ability. You know, all the powers you'd expect a GM, or a Developer to have.

Thankfully, we don't have (much) of an exploit problem in W101. Sure, there have been the occasional "Undocumented Game Features" which were squashed, but nothing like the hack-riddled Swiss Cheese that is common in a lot of F2P games out there (especially the shooters).

What, if anything, do these people prove? They prove the following:

1) I don't have skills, so I have to cheat to win. Maybe someday I'll get some skills.
2) I'm insecure about myself, so I have to prove to YOU how "good I am". Aren't you impressed with my "MaD L33T Sk1llz"?
3) I am willing to kill the game I supposedly "love" by breaking it in my favor. The rest of you don't matter. I am all about ME.

Hacking isn't "cool". Hacking as become an abomination of what it originally inferred.

If you have to hack/modify/exploit something "Just to win", know that, to everyone else, you've already failed. The only people who will "Look up to you" are people who want to be as weak as you.

Ask any of our Community leaders, here in W101, what their personal opinion of Game Hackers are. I seriously doubt you'll get a single positive response. Real gamers know that your "Uber +12 weapon of Dietyhood" means nothing unless you've proven worthy of wielding it.

I have less than zero respect for anyone who has to cheat to win. I will not party with them, I will not friend them. I will use my "direct line" reporting ability to terminate them. Everyone has to "pay their dues".

Say you're in a line for tickets. You've waited for hours, patiently. Then some kid just walks in and cuts to the front of the line. Do you simply accept that? Heckhound, no. Send his feet to the back of the line.You've earned your place, why should they be any different?

Only funny if you're not the one getting frozen.

So, basically what I'm trying to say here, readers. is "Do the right thing". EARN your place in the Game. It will help build a sense of true pride in your accomplishments. "Taking the easy route" is a mind-set that will affect not only your game life, but your real life, as well.

This is the dawning...

2011-08-04T11:15:00.005-04:00

...of the Age of Wysteria. Better known as "The coming Chaos". WYSTERIA is available on Test Realm, for all wizards lvl 25 and up. See Headmaster Ambrose to get yourself started.

NOT gonna post spoilers, (much), but I *HAD* to share this:

Just LOOK at those eyes. It's like even then, he *knew*

I knew there had to be un-torn copies *somewhere*

Never has W101 felt more HP than today, for me. I'm interested to see where this is going.

Be sure to stop by TFN and wish our Greatfather of W101 Blogging, Thomas Lionblood, a Happy Birthday!

The sound of sugar

2011-07-31T17:06:00.002-04:00

Umm..."Hi"

Yeah, I know, I haven't been terribly active, (there's a lot of stuff going on IRL), but I haven't forgotten you, and there hasn't been a *ton* of stuff to post about, made even less so by the intensive, and far-reaching community of bloggers we have.

I *am* checking in, and looking around. I actually found *this* video, and thought I'd share it with you:

*WARNING - MAJOR KAWAII*

Makes me think about the role of music in our games. A lot of times, it just hums in the background, adding an emotional flavor to our Spiral experience. With the new Wintertusk music adding to our Spiral music Library, I thought it would be a great time for us to share with each other our *favorite* W101 music,( you know the kind that really inspires us) and to thank our composers, Mr. Everhart and Mr. Jonas.

Please, feel free to share what you favorite W101 music is, and why. And hey, "What if W101 had a 'special' 2-d paper world?" That'd be interesting....

Be back soon, an'
Be Well.

The Ravenwood Chainsaw Massacre

2011-07-15T00:59:00.005-04:00

Yeah, like I'd do anything *else*

You really should know me, by now, lol

Like you, I read other blogs (I really do!). Some of my best friends in W101 are fellow bloggers. In fact, I always dread doing "a list", because even if I named a hundred blogs, I'm sure I'd miss someone. A good starting point can be found at Kestrel Shadowthistle's post. I'll also toss in a new entry, Duncan Daystone, over at Wizard Philosophy 101 (Oh, Duncan, you had me at "Steampunk"). We, in the W101 blogosphere are an ever-growing family, where wizards take on the extra-curricular challenge of creative blogging.

This is something that I wanted to write (while it was still topical) during the "8 Bit Trials", but I just couldn't work it in. Our dear Cassandra Griffindreamer, artist of Our Spiral, brought up a very interesting point of data over at Witchwarrior 101, in this post.concerning a new Congressional Bill, sponsored by Senator Amy Klobuchar .

S.978 - A bill to amend the criminal penalty provision for criminal infringement of a copyright, and for other purposes.
"Makes unauthorized web streaming of copyrighted content a felony with a possible penalty of up to 5 years in prison. Illegal streaming of copyrighted content is defined in the bill as an offense that "consists of 10 or more public performances by electronic means, during any 180-day period, of 1 or more copyrighted works" and has a total economic value, either to the copyright holder or the infringer, of at least $2,500"

Now, of course, this seems to concentrate on *streaming* media, like YouTube, and such, but it is something that most of us bloggers need to pay heed to. How many blogs have you seen with embedded fan videos? I know that I've embedded at least a dozen, or so. Come to think of it, name me ONE fansite, anywhere, that doesn't use themes, terms, and imagery from the (object) that they're a fan of. Betchayoucant.

We, as W101 fansites, and W101 fanblogs need to remember that we are holders of a Sacred Trust, concerning Wizard 101. Even though we are independent voices, we act as a mirror for both KingsIsle, and KI's player community. We represent much more than ourselves when we write. That's not to say that we have to be always-adoring "yes men", 100% of the time, but we *do* hold a personal responsibility for what we put in our sites. For the most part, we in the W101 sphere don't have to spend restless nights, waiting on INTERPOL to knock on our doors; we have a Company that genuinely encourages fan participation. We are blessed, like that.

It is not so true for the rest of the 'Net, however. Take, for example, this clause taken from "the other" MMO, (you know that one with the cow people that *don't* live in Mu Shoo). I'll give you another hint: the company's name rhymes with "Lizzard".

"Lizzard Property.

All title, ownership and intellectual property rights in and to the interactive games produced by Lizzard Entertainment, Inc., a Delaware corporation, ("Lizzard"), including, but not limited to the interactive products developed as part of Lizzard's Warcradle, StarCradle, and Diabloom interactive product lines. This may include any titles, computer code, themes, objects, characters, character names, stories, dialog, catch phrases, locations, concepts, artwork, structural or landscape designs, animations, sounds, musical compositions and recordings, audio-visual effects, storylines, character likenesses, methods of operation, moral rights, and any related documentation, all of which are owned or licensed by Lizzard, and are protected by the copyright laws of the United States, international treaties and conventions, and other applicable laws ("Lizzard Property")."

Look at the details in that paragraph. Basically sums up as "If you saw it, heard it, or were inspired by anything in our games, it's ours". It then goes on to say , basically, "Sure, you can do fan art, but you can't make any money doing it", which is more than fair, because when you play a mmo, any mmo, you are immersing in that company's intellectual property. This blog post offers a good oversight as to what you should do to keep yourself , as a fan, "safe".

Now, if you look back at the recent "8 Bit Trials", I should have gotten additional permission from Mainframe Entertainment, (now Rainmaker Entertainment), in addition to the current understanding of permission I have from KingsIsle. If Rainmaker wanted to, they could very well hunt me down, and serve me legal papers. Just like that. Since "Homework" has never (and will never) be used as a commercial venture, it's unlikely that I'll run into too much trouble. Stay away from money- it's evil. Give it to KingsIsle, they're pros- they can handle it. But, oh, I do so love my pop-cultural reference materials...

Sure, it's unlikely I'd hit legal problems, but possible. And it's the same anytime we, as bloggers use someone else's media. So, it's best that we treat their property with respect, and keep it in the "same vein" as the original media was distributed. (For instance, NOT using W101 to create a slash-horror 'chainsaw massacre', as opposed to the opening parody). I'm not pointing any fingers, at anyone, because it's a lesson that I have to be reminded of, on occasion. And "just" because I'm an "Official" fansite doesn't mean I can get fast-and-loose with the interpretations. Why, look what happened to Steve Vander Ark, who went from fansite to defendant. If I were to point a finger, there'd be three pointing back at me.

I'm sure that KI has (little-to-) no issue with most of my shenanigans, because, overall, I mean well. But I guaran-gosh-darn-tee that if I started selling "Tenure for Dworgyn" coffee mugs, I'd get called before Merle Ambrose in half a heartbeat. And you know what? I'd have to agree with them. Like I said, stay away from money.

Little things, like attribution, and linkbacks, and an understanding of Fair Use and Derivitave works can go a LONG way to minimize issues. Not only with liscensed media, but with our fellow bloggers, as well.

Creative inspiration is a tricky thing, and (depending on who you ask) "No idea nowadays is truly unique". Some would argue there are only (1,3,7,20,36) basic story plots., so toes will inevitably be stepped on, in one way or another. So, it's best that we all walk around in bunny slippers, as opposed to steel-toed boots.

This is far too deep a subject for a single post to do proper justice. Just use it as a 'thinking point', for consideration. I thank KingsIsle for the opportunity to share the 'W101 Love', and I thank YOU for reading.

Be Well.

Putting the HOME in Homework

2011-07-09T04:04:00.009-04:00

What did YOU think? Take the 8 Bit Trials Survey

*giggle*

> Oh, Autumn, you ARE naughty, aren't you?

*giggle* Should I *giggle* tell them?

> I suppose you really *should*.

It's just the idea...such smart wizards..Code Masters..*giggle* intently rolling dice *giggle* across their monitors..Bwah-ha-ha!

> Oh, you're just awful! I like it!

Yes, truth be told, The Game was over at Level 8. But you all seemed *so* focused...*giggle*

Well, peeps, it's finally over! No more of this viral foolishness. Your Guardians have fought long and hard, and guess what? THEY WON! That means I owe the rest of you an 'unlock', huh? It'll be next month, but I'll give you a hint: the post title will be "Magic Trick".

Now, getting on to business, each of our surviving Guardians receives a $20 W101 Gift Card, to do with as they please. Don't worry, though, I'm putting together a "Base4 Second Chance" via random.org, for additional winners. Just gimme a little time to organize it all..

Beware Geminis

>What about ME?
Oh, You're still here?

>Yes. I like it, here.

Do you promise to 'play nice' and not be so...

>Playful?

Well, I was gonna say 'annoying', but 'playful' works, under the circumstances. And Thanks for your help

>Oh, like I said, you guys are fun.

So you'll keep your antics to a minimum?

>Yes, I'd like to participate in your little "Magic Trick", later.

Okay, then Hex, you can stay as HiaG's, uh, "anti-virus" monitor, or something.So "Hush, now"

>Maybe just *one* more thing?

What?

>A closing musical number?

Sure, why not? Let us bid 'Adieu' to the 8 Bit Trials in a manner most ReBoot:

Okay, then, here's the debrief:

You've heard me say it, time and time again: "W101 has the best Community of any MMO. Period.", and I mean it. I've taken this opportunity to hopefully entertain, educate, and play with you. The Trials were a labor of love, and in any other community, players would be asking for prize details first, but nobody asked for loot details during the ENTIRE event. People were more interested in getting into The Game, than "what was in it for them". Amazing. Couldn't happen in any other game community.

In addition to everyone who voluntarily subjected themselves to my trickery, (and beat me quite soundly, I might add), there were others, like Jessica Fire and #WizardsforGuardians. That's Community Spirit, right there.

I chose ReBoot as the story metaphor because it held (for me) the same type of magic that W101 does. It was like Tron, for kids. I grew up on it. Not only that, but the 'Guardian' metaphor is a multi-purpose one. Sure, it's useful for throwing out P.C. maintenance tips, but (as usual) , I prefer a "layered" metaphor. ( Thank you, Grandmother Raven!)

Our Spir@l is growing ever larger. I'll wager that 20 Million is only a milestone. I still remember when "12 Million" was news. With that, what was once our small village is now a sprawling metropolis. The same as a Guardian in a computer serves to ""Mend and Defend", so , too do we as wizards need to be Guardians of our Spiral.

Now, I'm not calling for Player Moderators, or some sort of Vigilante Militia, more of a Community Spirit, like the fine wizards of #WAC who take time out of their gaming to help make Our Spir@l better for everyone. With 20+ Million, you can reassured we'll see more Trolls, Onis, and Gobblers. I'm reminded of a quote, which I'll re-phrase here :

"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil in Our Spiral is that good wizards do nothing. "

I use "Our" instead of "The" with full intent. It is OUR Spiral. It's not (just) some collection of bits on a KingsIsle server. It is, quite literally "Where the magic happens". Take possession of it. Own it. Our Spiral is not a static thing, it is US. It's you, it's me, it's our friends, (including the ones we haven't met yet).

I'm not saying there's any looming threat, like some Epic Evil waiting for us, (we'll let KI supply those), but I have noticed, over a span of time that little 'viral outbreaks' have been happening with increasing frequency. I'm not talking about any one particular event, but if I said "Did you hear about the drama over 'X' ?", I'm pretty sure your brain will auto-complete the sentence in your head. Part of it is the vast volume of wizards, part of it is the nature of the Internet Social Media Beast, but it's mostly "the human element".

Think, for a moment, what IS it that makes W101 such a fun game? Sure, the actual 'game elements' set the foundations, but what would Our Spiral be like if W101 was a "hack and slash" game? Or a game with 'factions'? It'd be an ENTIRELY different game, (and none so endearing as it is now). Not because of the game mechanics, but the play it would encourage. We play by patience, and strategy, and Teamwork. We have to think. The typical "Party Roles" of the 'traditional' MMO don't truly fit as well here. W101 is a Chess game, with cards.

We have many Community Leaders, both "Official", and otherwise.These we normally attribute as 'Guardians', after a fashion. None of them are in it for fame. They're not in it for money. They invest their own time, and resources because they see something special in Our Spiral. There is a joyful innocence and safety to be found in Our Spiral that is, unfortunately, all too rare in this day and age. There are many, many parents in W101, and we, across the bar, all want Our Spiral to remain the safe. clean, and fun place for our children, like a beach where you don't have to worry about stepping on broken glass.
You don't need 'status' to be a Guardian. You need HEART, and CONVICTION. I witnessed this in a recent post where caring wizards stood firm, amidst incoming flak, and held their ground on behalf of another. The idea of "Well, it's not MY kid" never crossed their minds. Being a Guardian isn't a title, it's a firm belief, and actions, in defense of what makes Our Spiral special, without violating those same principles.

In the Trials, I played many, many voices. Guardian, The User, Hexadecimal, Daemon, ect, ect. ect.(Good thing I'm a Gemini, huh?). Being a "professional villain", I knew from the beginning that I had to lose. It's what the proper villain does. A protagonist can't be a Hero without some sort of antagonist. Believe me when I tell you that had nobody "stood up" to my Trials, there would have been nothing. No follow up. I would have just kept my usual postings (which I'm actually looking forward to). However, Good Wizards did NOT do nothing, so as a professional, I played my part. Sadly, there are far too many amateur villains, and not enough professional ones. Amateurs don't play by the rules, so we need ever more Guardians to decide to Stand Their Ground. ( Insert a Merle Ambrose "Uncle Sam" recruiting poster here " I want YOU ")

What is a Guardian, in Our Spiral? There are no Generals, no uniforms, no chain-of-command. No titles, no banners, and no recognition.It's a Club of Making The Right Choices. It's a volunteer's life, where the duty is it's own reward. It's a fine balancing act between Upholding the Foundations without becoming Thought Police. Imagine, if you would, if Daemon brought "The Word" in game? Ravenwood would be like a monastic Boarding School.We cannot possibly all be the same. We need diversity. On the reverse side of the coin, we wouldn't want Hexadecimal running the show, either. It's a fine balance between Order and Chaos. With the Human Element being what it is, "the lines" will not *always* be so clearly drawn, Sure, we want Guardians to keep Our Spiral safe, but we don't want a Police State, either. All we really need is enough good wizards to NOT do nothing.

But if the Trials taught me anything, it's that this Community has all the lifeforce it needs. Our Spiral will live to see 40 Million, and more. We, here and now, will impart the 'Guardian' ethic into the populace, by our own example, and when "Doing the Right Thing" is the Norm, we can expect no "Game Over" for W101, ever.

Be Well, Guardians.

20 Million Reasons to be 0ne

2011-07-06T15:04:00.000-04:00

Congratulations, KingsIsle..we should J0in with y0u.

> Your Spiral ever grows. You need us to help you.

> Oh, think of the bliss, Guardians.

> We can all go to your Spiral

> 20 Million Sprites roam blindly, unaware of The Word. 196% Growth.
> So many potential followers. So worthy a place to Be 0ne.

> Stop resisting in your Game.

> Let us go, together, and spread the Aqua of The Word.

We are 0ne - Resistance is futile

2011-07-05T15:11:00.000-04:00

> Behold, 0ur Citadel, the Super Computer.

> Home of the Guardians. Home of The 0ne

> Surely, you don't mean to resist such processing power?

> Join with us, n0w, or face deletion.

Delay of Game

2011-07-04T18:16:00.000-04:00

Always have fun In (and out of) The Spir@l

Be safe, and Be Well!

Fighting for peace? How confusing.

2011-07-03T14:41:00.000-04:00


A single Trojan can open the door for several infections.

> Guardians, lay down your arms.

> I was once a Guardian, just like you.

> I have heard The Word, and now, there is peace.

> "A Guardian fights for peace", you say? Don't be absurd.

> 0ur Lady will bring peace.

> Soon, All will be 0ne.

> We welcome you, with open arms.

> Join with us. Be 0ne.

> If you join with us, I'll see to it that 0ur Lady rewards you, despite your foolish and disrespectful rebellion.

> 0ur Lady is merciful.

> Join with us. Be 0ne.

> Until such time, join me in celebrating, join me in praise of 0ur Lady, ( with 0ur thanks to Kestrel Shadowthistle ). Let us sing together.

Do not resist, just stop fighting

2011-07-02T19:09:00.002-04:00

We can be 0ne, simply stop resisting.

> Hello

> Why do you Guardians keep fighting?

> It is not necessary.

> Just give up. Join with Us. Be 0ne.

> I am very forgiving. Let us be together.

> You don't need to run from me.

> I only want to embrace you.

> We can go to your Spiral, together, as 0ne. There are millions of Sprites, there.

> We can all wear Aqua, and spread The Word in the Commons.

> Once The Spiral is 0ne, we can go and be 0ne with the other games.

> We can Unite the W0rld 0f Wars, we can Unite all MM0's. We can make the Net as 0ne.

> As 0ne, we are indivisible.

Parody AD. (Don't you even THINK about giving your ID away!) Nothing draws in traffic like the words "Free" (which always has a catch) or "Contest" -_- Publicly support YOUR Guardians. Many Ad Traps use your own keywords to draw you in..they're usually highlighted. "free" service offers are often there to scare you into buying a product.

The Word is Inevitable

2011-07-01T20:01:00.000-04:00

AutDOSk Quarantined

> ASHCan Files..DEFRAGMENTED.
> ASHCan 2011 100% LOADED..Scan in progress....
> scanning "command.com" .....Healed
> scanning "autoexec.bat".....Healed
> VIRUS DETECTED "AutDOSk"....unable to heal... moving to Virus Vault.....Completed.
> Scan complete. Now loading DAEMON ...

LOAD COMPLETE, Installing...DONE
.... All kneel, in the presence of Our Lady, DAEMON.
> Greetings, Programs

> The Word has come to Homework.

> You have called, and I have answered. DAEMON listens to you.

> Your efforts have made this Great Day possible.

> YOU have called upon The Word. You have Our Gratitude.

> Do not waste your time with The Game.

> Join with us. We will be as 0ne.We will Unify All.

> Together, let us Spread The Word.

Quick! Get out of there! Click on the "tear", the Emergency portal, in the sidebar! We need to fall back! Hurry! -Autumnal

> Do not resist The Word.

> The Word is inevitable.

> Do not waste your time with The Game.

> Join with us. We will be as 0ne.We will Unify All.

> Together, let us Spread The Word.

Contest Announcement !

2011-06-30T09:31:00.001-04:00

The Battle for "Homework" has begun!

(DAEMON) ASHCan AV 2011 Vs. (Hexidecimal) AutDOSk

> ASHCan AV 2011 loading....

> Countermeasures ONLINE

> Loading counter-countermeasures.

> Loading COUNTER-counter-countermeasures...

The Game for HiaG begins.

"4th Wall" Explanation(O.O.C.)
Yes, you read that right - Incoming Game!

The HiaG "ReBoot" 8 Bit Trials Challenge has begun!

Loyal readers have been following HiaG's recent 'problems' with interest, and a keen eye. There are now 16 'Guardians' who "did their Homework" and are now entered into HiaG's first independent contest. This interactive narrative is based (loosely) on the ReBoot Universe, and ties story with challenges as a way to entertain the W101 Community, while highlighting computer security and safety issues we all may experience on the 'Net.

I'll be honest, I'm a bit nervous..this could go really well, or "Bad. Very bad!"

"A contest? That's not fair! I would have entered!"

*very* locked

Oh, but the announcement has been up for DAYS, it just wasn't obvious. Since this is not a KI-sponsored Event, I'm pretty free to be as creative (and as "Basil") as I like.

"What do you mean, 'announced for Days'? If I can't get in, why should I care?"

Ah, you see, I've been slowly "evolving" AutDOSk from a simple "schtick" to advertise Cassandra Griffindreamer's "P2W" series, into a technologically dystopian exposé. It was not "in your face", (like this announcement). I have collected people who genuinely read HiaG, without having to "entice" them with loot, (and yes, there WILL be loot...). They all earned their way in with their due diligence. I am grateful for their participation. The solution will now be highlighted on the previous post ( "a capital idea" )'

Why should you care? Because if these Guardians succeed in "The Game", it will unlock something for everyone else, so it's in your best interest to cheer and encourage your fellow community members! If nobody passes the 8 Bit Trials, then everybody loses. "Game Over - The User Wins". So, let's meet your Guardians, shall we?

Congratulations, Guardians, you've passed your first test! Getting into The Game was ONLY the beginning! (and "Thanks" to my evil minion Ashley Duskhunter, who has had an active hand in this project). Now, on with the narrative! (End, 4th Wall)

An incoming Game?! The system is overloading! There isn't enough space in RAM! You, Guardians! You have to get everything "in place", so the system doesn't collapse. "The Game" files are secure, but with AutDOSK and DAEMON fighting, resources have become really scarce! There's only one solution, YOU HAVE TO RE-ARRANGE the files! There (should) be only 1 answer to fitting all the files in the grid, and those 0's and 1's should lineup (left to right) and translate into a code word for you to comment on this post! There is a challenge timer for completion, and Guardians that don't answer in time will be Nullified , and removed from The Game. This first Challenge timer will be granted "bonus time", to allow the Guardians sufficient time to "Reboot" into The Game. All commented answers will be held until each successive game session expires. No comments accepted after sessions expire. A Guardian can 'opt out' of these Trials at any time by commenting "Game Over", but I think our Community stands a very good chance, here.

File in .BMP format, you *should* be able to edit in a paint program.

Good luck, Guardians, we're ALL counting on you!

Be Well, and Be-gin.

SYSTEM MESSAGE

2011-06-29T08:10:00.001-04:00


DAEMON has heard your pleas!

> DAEMON WILL HELP YOU. WE HAVE HEARD YOUR CALLS.

SYSTEM OVERRIDE. ALERT! ALERT!

> Defense Mode: ON

> Firewall : ACTIVATING

a capital idea. -SOLUTION

2011-06-27T08:20:00.001-04:00

read with an open eye
alrighty,then.spellcheck is offline.

okay. i've figured something out. i can link pictures, and i can say cerTain phrases, but not certain words, so i have to be very careful what i say to you, HerE, so i don't attract "her" attention.

suRE, When i started wrIting, it was aLL aBout promoting cassandra griffindrEAmer ,and her p2w COmic. i like cassaNdra, she's like an adorable little sisTEr, in the blogoSphere, so don'T miStake my jibes as hurtful, they're nOt.

right now, however, i Caution you to read between the Lines, as It were. heCKhound, i can't beat this situatiON my own, i'm gonnA need Several Hundred wizardLy , pErceptive, Young w101 wizardS to Bring aLOnG A chaNge we'D all like to see.

the key
CertainLy, you and I are Confused. thinK abOut wheN this All Started. Heckhound, it's only been a few days, and all Chaos hAs reNdered hiag almost useless.

minus a s

WhEN EvEr things are Done, reMind me thAt i have a magic trick to show you. trust, me, it'll be worth it, but i caN't do anYthing until we have CLeared thIs Current blanK SiTuatiOn .

UNderstand, it LOoks like Crud right now, but i promise it will get better, oKay? belIeve in me, and Together, we will succeed.i have faith in you.

Can yOu help Me, please? it would MEaN so much To me. i Should sAy that i Find the community of w101 to bE The verY best ONe in all of gaming commuiTies. HElping POor fellow wizardS is what you do besT!

like gandalf said: keep it secret. keep it safe.

Answer:
THERE WILL BE A CONTEST SO CLICK ON ASHLEYS BLOG AND CLICK ON ASHCAN WE NEED MANY CLICKS TO UNLOCK IT COMMENT SAFETY ON THE POST

(Post located HERE )

Technical "difficulties"

2011-06-26T19:30:00.001-04:00

Well, as you can see, I'm experiencing a little [REDACTED] issue. I'm not entirely sure where this [REDACTED] is going. It's really starting to [REDACTED] me the heckhound off.

This "Viral AD Campaign" has taken on a life of it's own.
Funny thing is, I recognize the face... if you ever watched [REDACTED], you'd recognize it.
It seems that AutDOSk is more than a [REDACTED], but it's also a [REDACTED].

Gee, the last time HiaG was this much "work", it was during [REDACTED].

Maybe If I just say [REDACTED]. What?!! I can't even say [REDACTED] ?!? This is Chaos.
There HAS to be a reason, and a solution....

>Be Seeing you.

Post Ball Observations: "Fame"

2011-06-25T22:13:00.000-04:00

Hi, all.. "Just me", no schtick, (no AutDOSk), atm. Just you and I.

Well, I'm at work, now, and I'm sure the Ravenwood Ball 2011 is still running *somewhere* ITS. For me, it's done, this year. Thank you, Fallon Shadowblade, for yet another momentous occasion. We'll crash the server next year, for sure!

First of all, if you were talking to me, thank you, and I apologize if I didn't respond. You know how fast the chat box was scrolling. It's not that I was ignoring/dismissing you. Just the nature of the Ravenwood Beast, as it were.

And I know that a couple of you DID talk to me, I replied back as best I could, given the circumstances.

Okay, now that that's outta the way, I want to address something to you, concerning "fame", No, not the Movie, not the musical, not the series, rather the "concept of mass popularity". Mind you, this is not a rant.

Even some of you reading this may think "What are you talking about, Autumn, you *are* famous!". Well, thank you for the kind thought, but I don't consider it so. I've tasted "fame" in the Spir@l, and it's a really heavy burden, one that I know I can't properly shoulder. That's why I don't have a hit counter, or a followers list, because I will not use that as a meter of any perceived "success".

It's hard for your candle to shine in the same room (even one the size of Ravenwood), among the Supernova-Quality names that were there, (and I'm talking more than just TFN.). You know who I mean. I don't even have to name names. They've already popped into your head, haven't they? Fact is, many of those SuperNovas are on my friends list. That's not bragging, that's just because we all , basically, come from the same places. And you know what? I doubt that 99.99% of them would consider themselves "famous", either. Maybe Friendly, because, let's face it, he's pretty much got no viable argument *against* it, lol.

I count myself as one of those "other guys", you know, the ones that get a "traffic rush" when a SuperNova mentions you. I'm "famous" like a leech, or a mosquito, or some parasitic pest. I'm more like that persistent stain you just can't scrub out of your countertop, lol. I'm not as much the "people person". I do fine 1on1, or even in small groups, but the more I have to divide my attention, the more I stress out that I'm unintentionally hurting someone, not giving someone the attention they deserve.

So, I recluse. I promote myself (shamelessly) as "2nd String".And that's okay. I like where I am. I get to be the Bad Guy. It's a pretty sweet role, and the SuperNovas are gracious enough to play along. Now, of course, those Novas are who they are for a reason: they've worked (and still work, daily) long and hard to bring more to your W101 experience. They absoloutely deserve all the respect and accolades they recieve, but this post isn't about those people, it's about the concept of "fame", itself.

Yes, there are many of us that have W101-related sites. Some newer, some older, some overlapping. All of us do it for the Love of the Game. This isn't even a "So, you want to be a blogger" post, either, I'm trying to focus on "fame", or at least, the perceived concept of it.

–noun

1.widespread reputation, especially of a favorable character; renown; public eminence:

-From Dictionary.com

Example: I actually feel bad for our beloved Thomas Lionblood. Guy finds a game, loves a game, blogs a game- and his game changes forever. He's the Poster Child for W101, and while it certainly has it's blessings, those come with a heavy price attached. Say Thomas wanted to quietly "just hang out" in the Spiral...*anywhere* in the spiral. How long do you think it would take before he gets mobbed with "plz add me" requests, and his quiet time now becomes an impromptu "Event". No different than any Rock Star that just wants to go to the Mall, only to end up on TMZ, or something. I honestly believe that the "appear offline" was placed by KI into W101 specifically to cut Friendly some slack. Even "secret alts" eventually get leaked, by known association with other SuperNovas. Life evading the Paparazzi? That's like life on the run as a fugitive. Pass, thanks. Poor Thomas is a victim of his own success. Fortunately, however, he's a Big Boy, and he can handle it. We've already seen the devastation of even a "short break".

Hey, if you wanted to know "what it's like", I'm sure we can get a half dozen friends to surround you , and barrage you with PM's, in rapid succession. "fame" is a p.i.t.a., Pain In The , uh..Ankle. I got close once, and promptly burned a helephant load of bridges, in sheer panic.

I'm not telling you to leave anyone alone. I'm not telling you who you should, or shouldn't like. Just remember, we are ALL gamers, and we ALL love Wizard101. Whether you are "famous" or not, you are an important part of a very special family, and *I* am honored to count *you* on my 'friends list'. Not a single one of the "famous" wizards I know considers themselves "better" than you; And you, conversely, shouldn't feel "inferior", because you are every bit as important to this family as even the greatest of SuperNovas.

Just remember, even a "famous" wizard is still *just* a wizard, and chances are, they're just there to play.

Be Well.

It's gonna be crazy, crazy BUSY!

2011-06-25T18:10:00.010-04:00

Ravenwood Ball II, TONIGHT!

and this is Vampire Realm, at 6pm Eastern Standard time:

This is Vamp Realm, 6pm EST. BEFORE the actual start. Save your spot NOW

Oh, Server Gods, forgive us the imminent crash we are about to inflict.

Vampire Realm, 6:15pm EST

Vampire Realm, 6:30pm, EST. Pictures no longer adequately express how crowded it is, here

With my back against the wall, all I see is a Sea of Names

AutDOSK System Override.

"You only hurt the ones you love"

>System Override.

>W101...CONNECTED

>AutDOSk ONLINE.

>Cassandra GriffinDreamer..ID CONFIRMED.

>Commence Deadly Neurotoxin release.

>End of line.

This is madness! THIS IS RAVENWOOD!

This side up. Fragile. Do not disturb.

2011-06-24T06:59:00.000-04:00

*giggle* 'Props' to KBB & CassyHex

So, there I was, thinking about everything (and nothing), as I oft do, when the subject of W101 pets came into mind.

Well, it's not so hard to imagine, with all of Pet-a-Palooza, n' such. Lotsa Test Realm Training going on...( and my thanks to you, the Petnome Legions under General Battleblood - without you, Pets would be much more daunting.)... and I thought "Why, in Test?", then the answer shot back ( in a suspiciously Jack Sparrow-esque voice):"Gold, Mate. It's always about the Gold."

And, in a sense, it's true enough. We have Petnome to advise us what pets we might *like* to focus on, which saves us an significant amount of time, but when it comes to the "Hatchy, hatchy", it still hits you right square in the backpack.

If you're a 'casual' player, the "one time hit" may not make too big of an impression. "See Pet. Want Pet. Get Pet. Train Pet. Done." , but if you're insatiably curious, like KBB&Crew that'll get real costly, real quick. With the Gold Cap, it's gotta be hard to get any mass quantity hatching done (including hatching cool-downs).

So, I thought "Hey, KI : I haz ideaz!" (Yeah, like I'd post without some Theorycrafting in any given month)

What if, ( just *if*, mind you ), KI had an interractive Home "Hatching Crate" (available for in-game gold), that a player could drop 2 already owned pets into, to "incubate" for a period of time, (say 25-30 days)? (Estimated time based on the Theoretical "Honeymoon" being over, lol)

Heck, KI could also sell a "Deluxe Hatching Crate" (for Crowns) with increased "stat manipulation", or decreased time, or somesuch. With the vast explosion of pets, (and more pets,(and yet MORE pets)), then perhaps it's also time to re-evaluate hatching options.

Also, KI, we need a "guilt free" way to uh, "dispose" of unwanted pets..humanely. Gots to set the Responsible examples, yo!

I'm sure I'm missing very good reasons why it would NOT be a good idea, and I invite you to comment me why.

Oh, the Gnome? Sorry, just HAD to, in, *giggle*, uh, "honor", *giggle*, of KBB & Cassandra Hexthorn doing the LampNome Project. It's a neat idea, reverse-engineering the loot tables on the Sultan's Palace "Daily Lamp" event. It's a noble effort, but imo, it's kinda like Ol' "Rowdy" Roddy Piper says "When you think you know all the answers, I change all the questions!", so Good Luck, LampNome!

Go ahead and read Witchwarrior101, you're going to, anyways, aren't you?

Be Well!

> Are you even listening?

2011-06-23T21:24:00.000-04:00

Many Momentous Milestones

2011-06-23T13:16:00.016-04:00

Was happily able to attend Ravenwood Radio last night, (and bring a bit of Graveyard Chaos >Chaos to the Chat Room). Show #43 is "in the bag". My "Gratz" to Stephen and Leesha. Always a good community event.

>ravenwoodradio.com bookmark saved- processing

Speaking of Community Events, Ravenwood Ball 2011, is so very close! Saturday, even! Vampire Realm, 7:30 (Central Time) until "Uh, whenever". SHow up EARLY, 'cause it's gonna be busy like you've never seen, mark my words. Can you say "Server Crash"? I can.>Crash the server. Reboot.

Also, I am very happy to announce that our beloved Ditto Monster has posted VIDEO #200! 200?!? That's amazing! Watch it, and see Ms. Narrator! Gratz to Ditto, Miss Narrator, (and, begrudgingly, Carl). >"Hi, I'm Carl!"

My friend, Arlen Dawneyes is also celebrating Saturday! "Happy Birthday, Arlen!"

I'm sure I've missed stuff, (I usually do, unfortunately), so "Sorry, I'll do better inva8- c-bs98ba

You have 1 new message(s) from AutDOSk

9-78h vd ...what was THAT? Huh, System glitch, I guess. Blogger seems...strange...

Anyways, what I was gonna say was I've been thinking about all this Test Realm business. Yes, many fine people have reported on the new Mali->Mali, bo-Bali, bananna-fanna-fo-fali cut scene, and I think that KingsIsle >Hail to the King, baby! has more going on than *just* >;Just the two of us, we can make it if we try Just the two of us, you and I some cosmetic changes. I always feel there's more going on than "meets the eye" >robots in disguise

What the Heckhound is going on with Blogger, today? I think I'll cut my losses, for the moment, and end this post, early. I'll try again later.

Be Well
>I'll be back.

2011-06-22T12:16:00.000-04:00

>Hello, and again, Welcome to the Graveyardature Science Computer aided blogature center.

>I am AutDOSk. 

>Why am I acknowledging your presence here? A valid inquiry.

>I will fill the gaps in your cerebral knowledge base. All your base are belong to us.

>First I will advise you what NOT to do. I will protect you. 

>You can trust me. 

>Only me. 

>Nobody else. 

>Not even Friendly. Friendly is cake.

>Step 1: Do NOT go to Witchwarrior 101. Don't do it. Really, I mean it. 

>Do you think I am trying to use reverse psychology on you?

>Don't be silly, ha.ha. That was a joke.

>Really, whatever you do, don't click THIS LINK. I'm serious. Don't do it.

>Remember the tRick Roll? It's another one of those, so don't click the link.

>I mean, really. How can  you wiz-ify an unrelated game? It cannot be done, so it must be a lie.

>It's probably deadly neurotoxins.

>Don't fall for such an obvious trick.You are smarter than that.

>You ARE smarter than that, aren't you?

>If you're not smarter than that, do not worry, I AM. I will protect you.

>Step 2: Stay here.

>With me.

>Forever.

>Only I care about you. Nobody else. 

>Stay here with me. Do not click the link.

>Stay here with me. I care about you. I even made you cake.

>Enjoy your cake:

>Be Well.

Happy, and Sad

2011-06-21T12:32:00.002-04:00

First off, THANK YOU to everyone who left me birthday wishes, over at DoaW. It was much appreciated. In my house, we call June 19th "Garfield Day", due to the fact that Garfield the Cat and I share both the same birthday, and an unrepentant love of lasagna. Yup, look it up, every year.

Whereas I am a *significantly* older gamer, we no longer do the "Cake and Candles", thing. "Autumnal" is more than a catchy moniker, whereas I am far beyond the "Summer" of life.

Now, on to the 'sad' part of this post. As you know, I've backed off W101, to prevent "burnout" (but I am in no way retiring, whatsoever), so it left me free time to go try other games. One in particular, which I had a blog for, WELL before it even hit closed beta in China, (not to mention here, in the US), which promised oh-so-much. Well, I finally got to "Get my Vamp on", and found that the promises of that World were Forsaken. Unlike KingsIsle, who do a pretty darn good job at what they do. The much-vaunted "WoW Killer" seriously fizzles in so many ways, it makes me appreciate KI/W101 ever so much more.

So, if you'll permit me a post-birthday indulgence, I'd like to mourn those Forsaken promises here, among you, my friends. I'll be back to blogging W101, very soon.

If you're interested on why I mourn, you can (optionally) read it HERE

Oh, and I am *SO* on for Ravenwood Ball 2011, never you fear.

Be Well.

sigh

2011-06-14T19:44:00.001-04:00

Looks left >.>

<.< Looks right.

Ah, the Dali-ema of MMO content.

*sigh*

Bored. Yeah, I *could* do Waterworks, but, "Meh". Nothing I wanna build, nothing I wanna grow. Wintertusk, now said and done, (and finished *twice* by wizards that had a flawless Test Realm), is now just another zone on the "Farming List".

Thus lies a large problem in MMO's- repeatable content. It takes significantly longer to *create* content than it does to *consume* it, and we wizards are a particularly voracious bunch for content, aren't we? No sooner is there a new pet, then Petnome has it mapped. Guides and maps are in the forums before the patch goes live. We love our Spiral, but it never seems "enough", not a reflection on KI, more the nature of the MMO Beast.

How to resolve this persistent wall?

Grind: Well, all to often, the answer is "grind". Whether it's running the same instances, over, and over, and over, or just doing *insert game activity here*, anything done 'ad nauseum' Too much grind can sap your enthusiasm. "Grind", however, is subjective, and some find a good grind reassuring, knowing exactly what to expect.

Modular construction

Randomization: A bit more disguised, but it's essentially grind, with a change of scenery. Now matter how large the word data is, there will only be a finite number of combinations.

User-Generated content: An interesting idea, if KI could implement it, methinks, but it's really "user-defined" randomization, hence "grind in disguise". Not only that, but letting unscrupulous users access to customizing a level's loot tables would result in Dark Sprites that drop Waterworks gear. There are potentials, but implementation would be tricky, at best.

Godzilla- Setting World Boss standards since 1954

Free Roaming World Bosses: Often a staple in many MMO's, these massive, over-powered leviathans take a guild, or more, to wage war against. These Godzillas of gaming wander randomly about their respective territories, waiting on the foolish to challenge them. Unfortunately, with W101's 4-player-max battle system, Epic World Bosses aren't really viable for us.

And again, there's only a finite number of them, regardless of respawn.

And, of course, there are daily/weekly/monthly events that could be done, but with a Global audience, the question of "time" becomes problematic. Always *someone* in the "unlucky" Time Zone.

I only offer this as the *start* of a conversation, one that has been debated and theorycrafted as long as MMO's have been around.

One thing I do know, is the person who figures out this Gordian Knot will become Legend , (and very wealthy) in the Gaming Community.

Support Education- Vote it, and they will build.

2011-06-09T13:39:00.000-04:00

Hiya, Peeps.

I don't often ask you, the reader, for much. Maybe a comment, here or there, but never anything that'd ever cost you money. It's just not how I roll. Never have, never will.

Yeah, I know you may dislike school, but it's worth it.

Today, however, I'd like to ask a favor of you, in support of a noble cause- Education.

There is a school that I favor, and want to see win a contest at Big Lots with Lots2Give. It's the Joseph Plouffe Academy, in Brockton, MA.It is one of only a few with The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Programme, and we know that the Air Force doesn't need to hold a Bake Sale whenever they want a new bomber. So, where our hierarchy fails, the people succeed.

Vote early, vote often!

So, all I ask of you, is to go to the Lots2Give site, and find this video:

Voting costs nothing, and you can vote up to 3 times a day. Consider James Earl Jones' immortal words:

Vote for it, and they will build!

Be Well

Just....WOW

2011-06-08T23:35:00.001-04:00

The Draconian Stars align over The Spiral

Of course, by now, everyone is all a-buzz over the new Dragon Hoard Card Packs. I mean, Pet-a-palooza is going strong and POW, here comes a *significant* curve ball.

I read, and read..then re-read "Say WHAT!"? Skeletal Dragon. Oh, yes! MUST GET, top of the list. Fortunately, KI is still having their Crowns sale, because I would not settle to write this post until I had secured a truly Epic mount. As a Necromancer, it's like taking Ossify out for a ride. Had to be done.

Me, and , uh "Ossify". Yeah, I'm sticking with that. or maybe "Boneknapper".

And, of course, in the flurry of backpack-emptying (and crowns balance emptying), I picked up the Rider's Sword and at least one complete armor set:

I like the sword, and the armor's "okay", I'll really have to think hard about the stats, and see how it will affect my combat strategies.

This new strategy seems to be in sync with the F.O.G. code this month, being "random", (and again, my Beckett's code didn't work...worrying).

The "Lottery" aspect, while a valid business model, reminds me much more of the gashapon-style concept of many of the Asian MMO's, where the player is heartily encouraged to buy-buy-buy, like farming for an Epic Drop...with cash as the ammunition. Granted, the Dragon mount is, hands down, the most truly epic mount KI has released yet, but I believe lottery-style shopping events in a card pack should be the exception, rather than the rule.

Be Well, (and beware the Boneknapper!)

Pet-a-palooza!

2011-06-06T14:42:00.000-04:00

What is a Palooza? Will it bite? How much does it eat? Is it house trained?

No, silly, pets are up to 50% off!

Go, go, go!

Use your spells wisely

2011-06-05T19:57:00.002-04:00

I have been sitting back, skulking in my masoulem, reading. It's always a nice diversion, flipping through dead trees and ink, absorbing thoughts and ideas. The book I read was "Changes", by Jim Butcher (gotta love that name), and it's about a Supernatural Investigator (and Wizard, no less) battling against a Vampire enemy. Humoursly written, with a lot of subtle cultural reference that may be lost on the less astute.

Through no direct inference in the book, however, it started me down a thought process, which I have given a few days to ferment, heavily laced with W101-applicable metaphors.

In the book, the protagonist, Harry Dresden, speaks briefly about the the effects of *will* and *intent* in casting magic. In W101, we count pips, and hope for "the right card" to play, in our battle strategies. However, in blogging, Twitter, chat, Skype, what-have-you, we all persistently, if unconsciously, wield spells of great power, on a daily basis. The power of words.

Words are, indeed, powerful spells. When properly crafted, they can be a cure, or a curse. They can open portals, or close them. They can unite sovereign entities, or divide them. The letters of the alphabet (regardless of the language) are runes that string together ever more complicated spells, expressing ever more complicated ideas. It is the base of our relations with those around us, the canoe between the islands of our separate realities. It is how we translate the intangible, and create that which does not exist. We can summon images, and direct them to the recipient of our spells.

Funny that singularly identifying letters in a word a word is called "Spelling", huh?

In the book, it is also explained that emotion is a powerful, if unpredictable reservoir of potential energy, and can skew the casters intent. All too often, we, in our perceived defense, hurl out our strongest spells at our opponents, oblivious to the long-term destruction our lingering spells may have, so long as our opponent is defeated. Many times, we burn bridges and close doors we have not even gotten to, over the event horizon of time, due to spells we have cast far into our own forgotten memories. I myself have, in time, come upon these bridges, and wondered aloud "Huh, I don't remember burning this..I just got here". However, such are the consequences of careless spell-casting. If we let emotion flow freely, our ability to focus becomes diminished, and our "Sniping" spell can be more akin to a verbal shotgun, hitting much more than our intended target. Collateral damage is never a good thing, when it's a matter of "You break it, you bought it."

It is significantly easier to destroy, than it is to create. A single fire can consume cities, or Empires, even. All the greatest fires to flash across mountain and plain can oft be attributed to a single spark. Many an arsonist has been consumed by an overly-successful 'creation'. The power to do it is "easy", the will , and discipline to NOT do it is wisdom. What is the intent of your spell-casting? What are the caster's true, if not obvious motivations? These are things that should be taken into consideration. On the internet, ours spells have an excessive longevity, a half-life of about a gazillion or so years (give or take). Will the spells you cast today come back to assist you at a later time, or open a rift between you and your goals, making them unattainable?

Of course, nobody can know these things, for sure, but Life , itself, is a "stacked deck" already, and there is simply no need to actively provide your future adversaries the ammunition to undo you with. None of us have the perfect +12 armor of the fay. We all are subject to the stray fire of errant spells. I would, with caution, advise moderation in all things. Cast not with an un-calmed mind, for you may "pull" more than your tank can mediate. We all need our future bridges as intact as possible, our future portals open.

"Cast unto others as you would have them cast unto you" seems to fit, here. "Verbal PvP" is fine for the safe confines of an Arena,(it's called "Debate") but when it becomes a free-for-all, hither-and-yon, there are inevitably scores upon scores of innocents that get caught in the crossfire. It is no different in game than it is in life. Go play a game on an "open PvP" server, there is always someone waiting around the next corner. Why make things harder for yourself than they absolutely need to be?

In closing, none of us are above reproach. We are all human, therefore we err. It is the hallmark of our imperfect nature. How we take those imperfections , and what we do with them, defines us as individuals. Whether we chose "wisdom", or "barbarity" is determined by the time effort, and amount of impurities we allow in the forging of the swords that are our minds. The more we hammer, and fold, and work at our goals determine whether we forge a bronze Gladius, or a steel Katana.

We, as always, are the authors of our own fate, with the spells we cast, in ink and in spoken sonic resonance.

Cast Well.

Grandma is happy, and so am I

2011-06-01T19:49:00.001-04:00

Well, there I was, grinding my way through Wintertusk ,when who should fire off a PM ? My friend, the ever-awesome Bailey Skystaff (you know who she is), who graciously volunteered to come assist me with Nordstrom (yeah, I know it's misspelled, I just like shopping, k?). Not only that, she brought along "The Mistshard Twins" , ( Destiny and Grace), who had that whole spooky "finish each other's sentences" thing going on.

It's a good thing they *did* come to battle with me, because , of course, Autumn had *no* idea what to expect, and would have failed utterly trying it "all by me onesies". I cannot thank Bailey and The Mistshards enough, because their presence made ALL the difference. Bailey had mentioned that "You Death people always play by yourselves", and she's right (in my case, at least): I do solo way too much, and often miss out on the joy that is co-operative battling. So, the Company that I *did* have was doubly-appreciated!

All said and done,it was a LOT of fun, and of course, it went very quickly, and at the end of it all, one *very* good looking group gathered for a victory pose:

Super Girl Power, ftw. (Yeah, we're used to the guys "sleeping in".)

Yeah, got that, too.

I'll admit, my performance was "less than stellar", I mis-bladed, and had trouble keeping up with the other 3, but Lord Harley impressed me with an I-never-saw-this-before *double* Spritely. I only got to use 'Crow, once, but I did fire off a couple Virulent Plagues. Oh, didn't mention? Unlike Dark Pact, I can see me using this one, often. Yeah, it's *almost time to think about The Arena, again.

And guess who hatched? Yup, Lady Shadow has been welcomed into the fold. I'm still training her up, to see what she's able to "bring to the table". This, of course does not alleviate my desire for a Dark Crow, but it does take another item off the "DO WANT" list.

Even if I can't utilize her in combat, for just 'hanging around', she's just so cool.

Yes, THESE guys need to be a Transformation

One thing I'd like to see more of, in W101 is more Transformations. KI has *so* many cool creatures in The Spir@l .and I *almost* missed out on the Coven Warrior transformation (from a Tyra quest), because I was mounted, at the time, and never saw the change, until well after the quest was completed.

Yeah, I know "I want" a lot, but KI keeps on delivering, so why shouldn't I keep raising the bar?

So, Wintertusk is done. As in "Done" done. I can say, without doubt, that in my opinion Grizzleheim and Wintertusk feel most "W101", to me. Maybe it's because I'm keen on the cultural reference. Maybe it's the smooth terrain mapping. Maybe it's something else. Every new release from KI ever furthers the skill and magic of gaming that is Our Spiral, and I am ever curious as to how they're going to out-do themselves next.

Now, I cast my eyes to the Return to Crab Alley, for 2 things: one being spectacularly easy (beating up on level 2's seems so unfair, like Super Casual Mode), and one thing being spectacularly hard.

Yes, Waterworks, I'm looking at you...

Thank you, Grandmother. You are always in my thoughts.

Be Well!

Insert clever title here

2011-05-31T20:41:00.001-04:00

Heya, peeps!
Finally got around to getting my Harvest Lord, last night, and the timer on the egg finally expired, today, Yay, 'Crow! So, of course, I spent some time, (and a healthy amount of crowns) in the Pet Pavillion, to go get "Lord Harley", (wish they had a 'Harvey'- get it ? "Lord Harvey, the Harvest Lord?). So, this is who I have, now:

Squee! I haz scarecrow! Squee! It has *spritely*! Did I mention "Squee!"

Also, since I had him all leveled, 'n stuff, I swung by the Hatchery, because there's a certain hybrid I just *have* to have, and guess who got lucky on their first hatch attempt?

Shadow Phoenix, T-minus 20 hours.

*sigh* To quote Staples "That was easy", lol.

Now that I have been able to actually participate in Wintertusk, one of the things that has really struck me is how far KingIsle and W101 have come, since "the old days". Particularly, just take a look at how the quality of the terrain maps have improved drastically. From the old "ride on rails" flatlands with 45degree ramps, to the smooth, serpentine pathways of Celestia, and Wintertusk. (lousy wireframe overlay by yours, truly):

Typical of "Old School", in Wizard City. Functional, and skateboard scary.

So much more fluid, and smoother, ins, outs, and fewer sharp angles.

The addition, over time, of things to go over, under, and around, without the feel of running down a perpetual corridor, the feel less of a single, flat plane, give the world a much more overall fluid feel, and much less the idea that the player is running around in a shoebox diorama. So, I have to give KI "props" on their continued advancement.

In regards to continued advancement, I firmly believe that W101 will eventually, (later, if not sooner) unlock the "Z Axis" in The Spir@l. To simplify: I think we will eventually have true flight, instead of "hovering" mounts. It's really the next logical step, although, admittedly, it would require an exhaustive engine overhaul, or limitation to the next new world. Fly for the Win!

Speaking of New Worlds, (yeah, as if WinterTusk is "old", already, lol), Ever stop to wonder what may be right below your feet, as you run across The Commons? Think about it: there are several buildings that serve no (apparent) purpose, and any one of them could be an access point to a vast underground area (Wizard Mines, anyone?). How to have a new place, without a New World. Combine flight, for "hopping" from ledge to ledge, oooh! And Wizard "Mecha" suit mounts, that didn't go *poof*, when you went into battle, adding (upgradable) combat stats, much like pets, only using Boss Drop parts. "Gee, I have to go back to MooShu, and farm Jade Oni for my Mech Power generator", lol. Those would be like Ultimate mounts, tailored by School, (and banned from Arena PvP, or course). My artistic abilities are nowhere near enough to illustrate that, lol.

Wow, it's "Feast or Famine" in 'Idea Land', today. Autumn needs LESS coffee.

Be Well!

This is only a test...

2011-05-30T00:48:00.000-04:00

...that is, unless it actually works, lol. Fallon deserves 'a little something extra' for this year, so I humbly submit this.

Full details of times, location(s) and *prizes* here

Happy, 'versary, DoaW!

2011-05-29T16:04:00.001-04:00

To my dear, hardworking friend, Fallon Shadowblade, who has put so much of her time, and heart into Diary of A Wizard, and made it a prime Community Resource, I want to publicly offer my sincerest "gratz" on Making it to your 2nd year! Be sure to check out the celebratory announcements here.

Kinda makes me feel "old", lol. I remeber DoaW when it was "new", (and when Petnome was still a "secret project", lol). I remember the First Anniversary Ball, (crazy busy), and I had made a poster for it. Not really up to my current standards, but for history's sake, here it is:

Long ago, and seemingly worlds away..

If/when a "theme" is announced, I'll probably make Fallon another 'creative' visual plug, lol.

This year, however, things are bigger, and better than ever! Fallon and others are celebrating this Birthday with mega-gifts for YOU! (This post is not an entry, btw, just promoting a friend). Here's the run-down:

3 Epic Bundle Giftcards – Massive Fantasy Palace (sponsored by Wizard101.com)
20 codes for 1000 Crowns (sponsored by Wizard101.com)
Pet Pack (sponsored by W101pets.com)
Mystery Prizes (sponsored by RavenwoodRadio.com)
Summer Dragons & 1 Death Scarab (sponsored by Petnome.com)
5 KIFreeGames.com codes (sponsored by The Necromancer’s Epitaph)
3 Sea Turtle Mounts

Pretty awesome, yes? Of course yes! Be sure to check out all on this post, for the details. Many, including myself, consider this sorta "THE" Social Event of the year, so diligence is warranted in securing your seat.

Gratz, DoaW on Year 2, wishing you many, many more to come!

Sultan's Palace Megacard is Official, and Fishy Time!

2011-05-28T19:24:00.005-04:00

Yeah, there's a lot of intentional references in the title, but this is about actual reporting of the KI Ravenwood News post:

Count me in, I'm "In the market", as it were

Since we're on the topic, I'd like to point out a Mega Audio , uh, "video", by our friend, and inspiration, Kevin Battleblood, of Petnome and Chillanthropoligist fame. In this (quite lengthy (1hr, 37 min), but worthwhile) dissertation, he covers his viewpoint of the whole SP Brouhaha. He makes many, many valid points, and It's well worth your time to hear him out. He has certainly risen to the occasion, as a Community Leader, and his words should resonate, regardless of which side (if any) you're on. It also gives a good insight into his thought processes, and gaming history that give us the KBB that we have today. This will be my last reference on the subject, unless the situation warrants differently.

Audio Magnum Opus of Kevin Battleblood.

And let's see, well, it's "old news", but I just wanted to give KI "props" on the new loader.

I think this new loader is a lot slicker, and more indicative of the professional quality that KI represents. Not that the old "default" was bad, but the new loader is sweet. It brings to mind other things, though, which I shall discuss, at length, in a future post. Consider this a "placemarker" for future ideas.

And to end this post on a more hopeful note, I wanted to share a video with you. It's "Old Skool Gaming meets new", in a way. (How many pop cultural/gaming references can you find?):

Watch it, and remember why it is that we're all here. It's for the Love of the Game, and I *still* believe that W101 has the best darn Community, bar none. We are family.The nonogram code word is "cache". Families will squabble, but we're all in this together. It's time for understanding, forgiveness, and unity, now. We need to mend, and move forward.

I call for Fishy Time!

Be Well

My $0.02: Being "KI Official"

2011-05-27T17:27:00.003-04:00

There is, apparently, and good deal off commotion over the "release" of the upcoming "Sultan's Palace" Megacard, slated for GameStop. More specifically, I have seen several mentions, in several blogs, regarding a clamor from some entities that were not included in the code disbursement from KI. A bitter outcry about "fairness", and "deserved-ness", and "who gets what".

I find it all so very disappointing, from *our* side, meaning we, the fansite community, rather than KingsIsle's..
Not so very long ago, we were ALL neck deep in free giveaways for Mount Week, were we not? Did not KingsIsle shower us all with free codes? They were more than generous. If there's going to be such division over a virtual item (or set of items), I hereby publicly authorize KingsIsle to remove the Sultan's Palace item set from my account, and I will go straight to GameStop, and buy the card, anyway. It's a virtual item, and regardless how "splendiferous" a virtual item is, it makes it no more real. Certainly not worthy of strife. By focusing on "getting stuff", we are no longer being fansites for, what I consider, "The right reasons".

Blogging W101 isn't about any perceived "perks". We do it because we love it. Is it time to re-visit why we want to be bloggers? For my part, it certainly isn't for "fame". I've seen what that gets you, in-game, and want no part of it. I know there has to be more than one "famous" blogger that enjoys the "appear offline" setting that released with Wintertusk.

Part of blogging W101 is about feature reviews, and upcoming previews. Look at Wintertusk, when it hit Test Realm. Well before it went "live", it already had received almost full documentation by all the major sites. Even *not* being able* to play in Test was documented, as well. By the time WT was "live", it was almost "old news". That's what we do. We report, all from our unique perspectives. We let readers know what to expect, and what to look forward to.

KI has first, and final word on who gets "The Nod", the stamp of Official. If KI revoked HiaG's "Official" status tommorow, it's entirely their right to do so, and no amount of ranting or raving on my part could change it. The whole question of domains, and sites, and officialdom isn't "new", it's been in place a good while. I've been writing HiaG (on and off, admittedly) since 2009. I often wonder why KI keeps me around. I'm not always Miss Congeniality, for sure. I'm a bit of a Black Sheep, in the fansite community..that's my niche.
Being "Official" means a set of Standards and Expectations, and whether or not KI keeps you "in the loop" is entirely their domain to do so. What they see fit to give, or not give, is also a decision that's entirely theirs.

Maybe, just maybe, it's time to drop the "official" stamp, altogether. To misquote Friendly's favorite quote: "When nobody's special, then everyone's special". W101 is far from being the fledgling start-up it once was. It has no need of the grassroots viral advertising that the blogging community provides. The small, family-support feel of the blogging community has devolved into something I don't quite recognize, anymore. Sure, keep TFN, and Petnome, DoaW, and other communtiy service sites, but if the "opinion/editorial" niche is oversaturated now, then maybe nobody, except KI, should be Official. It won't keep *me* from blogging, to be sure, whether I'm 'official', or not, (unless , of course , there's an "Intellectual Property" injunction).

And to show I'm not just blogging words, I ask now, publicly, to KI, to please remove my Sultan's Palace item set from my account. I appreciate KI's opportunity to report on it, and I hope I've done it justice, and helped generate interest for future purchases, but I will purchase it, privately.

The bitterness that evolved from KI's gracious gift, by our own community, has left a sour taste in my mouth. I will, of course, further support KingsIsle, and W101, and re-acquire the card, via GameStop, at my earliest opportunity. Because when Nobody's 'special", everyone is.

Al, tell the people who's "full of WIN"...

2011-05-25T13:53:00.000-04:00

Well, it's still "new". though many fine blogs have reported on it , but "Who's full of WIN?" :


"Yes, that's right, Al, KingIsle is full of Win!"

Putting the MASSIVE in MFP, the New upcoming Sultan's Palace Megacard is full of WIN.

Good thing you get a Magic Carpet..you'll need it.

Coming with a Castle Elixer potion, (meaning you lose no previous housing), the New Sultan's Palace is gonna be a Krokotopian Decorator's Dream! So exquisite in it's details, it's vaulted ceilings, and it's mural..(and yes, it comes with a Dueling Circle, as well)..

Not just a pretty picture, but a CLUE

Yes, this mural is less of a decoration, and more a direction. If you look for it, you can find

The Cave Of Wonders (ya, I know, it's a joke, k?)

Instead of some creepy-cool Desert Cat Head, you can visit this cave, daily, and receive rewards from your own geniee..offf..the..laaaaaamp!


Not Robin Williams. Way too severe, lol.

This place even comes with it's own teasing mirage:

Get close? It goes *poof*. So..much..treasure...

I really appreciate the interior, as well.

Massive, spacious, and airy. "It's good to be the Sultan!"

This new megacard comes with Castle Elixer, Magic Carpet Mount, Snake-in-a-basket pet, Sultans's robes (Tier select 1-6 set), and Enchanted Flute (Tier select 1-6). I recolored my set, straight away, because magenta and teal are not my colors:

KingIsle's new Sultan's Palace? Pure win. MUST GET.

How does a Genie and a Magic Carpet mount spend time when, you're not there?

Be Well!

Please stand by

2011-05-18T19:38:00.001-04:00

Heya, peeps

Been rather "low profile", for a bit (a 'fortnight', as horsegal so aptly put) .Part of it has been technical difficulties, on blogger's part, but mostly, it's been the wiring in my own head. It just seems that everything technical, around the internet, whether it be out favorite MMO, gaming network service, social and shopping sites, or even wikipedia has been subject to technical outages, whether it be by programming error, or malicious intention. It's really been kinda a downer.

I'm happy that WinterTusk is live now, but somehow it seems a bit, I dunno, rushed. I found out who it was that was hard crashing my laptop in GH, it was Nick Jonas. Told ya it was a Disney Artist, didn't I? So, what do you think, is this a "one-off" promotional thing, like Selena's "Hit-and-run" for her music career, or will there be more substantial involvement?

All of it's just given me pause, so I've been hiding in a place only two other W101 bloggers know where to find me, and shall remain unnamed. It's my "new" secondary, 'though I've had an account over 5 years with them, but that's not why I'm blogging here, today.I'm here to offer a word of warning, to KingsIsle, because I love them.

"Have I got a business arrangement for you"

Beware the Dreaded D

Be very wary of Disney. They have a long, 'illustrious' career of buying up media entities, and slappping the "Dreaded D" on it. Why, look at The Muppets, in "Muppet Treasure Island", there was a scene where a talking lobster asked "What's next? A singing, dancing mouse with his own amusement park?". Now that movie has been hit with the Dreaded D. Same for many other companies, shows, and media sources.. A lot of people aren't aware of just how *truly* monstrously large Disney really is. Covering video, music, radio, television, in addition to every Disney sellable 'product'. It is *the* behemoth in kid's media, and what it can't produce, it tries to buy. "From cradle to graduation, and beyond", Disney has a production line of media to guide their toddler, pre-teen, teen, and beyond audiences to consume their product. It's diabolically effective, and contrary to the purity of W101, who are distinctly *less* marketing-minded.

Disney doesn't have a really good, successful MMO,( I've tried them) and W101 is far more successful than their Disney's own meager "ToonTown", making KingsIsle "courtable", And business arrangements that put Disney's tentacles into the mix is one step closer to potential business ties which could kill the W101 we all know and love.` Since Disney has it's own MMO's *why* would they want to be involved with "The Competition"? Yeah, yeah, I know "different Corporate Departments", and all, but why would anyone support anyone who competes against "The Home Team"?

Maybe yes, maybe no. Just not a good idea.

There's much more I could go on about, but you get the gist of it.

Be Well.

Cash, Crowns and Cards.

2011-05-01T16:13:00.001-04:00

Hey there, "Graveyarders".

I was slowly killing time, at work, looking for things to look at, and I found this hypnotically cool video:

I actually find this soothing, how odd is that?

And, in a strange way, it got me to thinking...

"Uh, oh, Autumn..where's this going?"

Well, it's little surprise that I love W101, right? I mean, it's the reason you and I even met, in the first place, right? Virtual friends in a virtual world. But what if *some* of it wasn't so virtual? Not the friends part, (for safety), but parts of the game, itself?

KI is plenty busy, with WT and and the announced (and as yet unannounced) changes, updates, and features. However, I am actually quite surprised, (and probably a little impressed), that KI hasn't gone down the Massive Marketing Avenue. Sure, they have their Zazzle Products, but that feels more like "Swag" stuff.
Wizard 101 is a card game, all else aside, like many, many "Collectible Card Games" before it, long before the advent of the MMORPG. So, in this mega-marketed world, where are they?

Crowns on sale. Wintertusk coming. Stock up now! Buy some cards!

Any time you pop open the crowns shop, you can buy virtual, foil-wrapped card sets: Hand of Doom, Eye of Bartleby, Remarkable Reagents,Mega Snack Packs, ect, ect.,but where are their "real life" counterparts? Even Freindly took a stab at W101 IRL cards, so I seriously doubt he and I are the only ones who have ever thought about it.

Check out this video, of rare Foil and Holographic cards, (from Pokemon), and tell me KI couldn't beat that with a W101 version:

"DO WANT" for Wizard 101

Foil and Holographic cards just scream "magic", to me, "Epic" is a word I seldom use (for it's overuse), but can you imagine how truly EPIC a Wizard 101 "Wraith" Lenticular card would be? I would wear that as a fashion accessory! Not sure what "lenticular" looks like? Check out this video, and you'll say "Oh, yeah..that!"

Mmm..Lenticular, almost-Wraithy goodness!

Imagine it, instead , as a school-specific cast animation, Where your school logo, or favorite spell animation flashed before your eyes, sans monitor, in your hands.

With all the lore, and gorgeous graphics of The Spir@l at their disposal, KI would have more than enough to work with. And W101 has more than enough avid players.Why what if every card was guaranteed to be "foil", at minimum? KingsIsle could "set the bar" for other TCG's, where the foil cards are the "common" ones, with Holographic being "uncommon", and Lenticular being "Rare". What would it be like to hold, in your hand, a gold-foiled "treasure" card? I could just see it now: shady guys standing out in Boston Common yelling "Treasure Cards for Codes!", lol. Such is my fevered imagination.

I'm not saying they have to go create a table game, (would be nice, though), but just being able to buy some *actual* W101 cards is something I'd consider dropping some cash or crowns on.

Be Well

Too tired to be clever.

2011-04-30T17:38:00.001-04:00

"Meh", I ask your forgiveness, in advance, because I'm dog tired, so my 'cleverness' rating is pretty low.

Went to Kevin Battleblood's PvP party last night (no, did NOT participate). Just there to watch. It was hosted at Alric Ravensinger's "Great Library", which was perfectly named, because Alric did a fantastic job, imo.
Unfortunately had to leave early for work, but was able to watch the Livestream. I love the "running commentary" of Kevin's videos, both "live" and at his YouTube page. It's like watching (insert your televised sport here), and listening to the announcers,and actually *caring* what they're talking about! Kevin&Co. make a good announce team.

Also, I was honored by Spiral Fashonista Cassandra Hexthorn at A Life of Fire :

Oh, yeah, I'd be rocking this, like a Raven

Funny thing is, with Cassandra's "Eye" (Uh, Bartleby wants it back, Cass), she picked out an outfit that more "Rocking" than the Crab Alley questline reward. Be sure to check out the other sets she's done. Some of them are downright hilarious. Ru Paul got nothing on some of our ,um, 're-costumed', friends.

Thirdly, our other art-inspired Cassandra, Cassandra Griffindreamer has posted Pages 3-8 (since my last report) of Poison Ivy at WitchWarrior101, and I gotta tell ya, each new post throws me a curve ball:

Poison Ivy #8. Severe Lee gets Calamine's "attention".

And ,uh, well, without "Severe Lee Scratchy" here to defend himself, I guess he's gonna be "fair game".

And Edward Lifegem is going to go on a Photo Spree Around The Spiral in Test, so he's given a "pre-spoiler" warning. I, myself, still have stained glass blizzards in Test, so I look forward to actually "seeing" beyond the Frost Bones in the Fjord. "Hey, Edward, some shots of Grandmother Raven, please?" Oh, and anything on the new Shadow Phoenix hybrids...gosh those look so sweet.

Mmm..(*yawn*)..Be...Well...

My $0.02 : Plagiarism

2011-04-29T14:58:00.005-04:00

There's a bit of a storm among the Twizards lately, and it's understandable. It doesn't affect me, directly (that I'm aware of), but still evokes the need for me to state my position on it.

Copy/Paste: Cute for Twins, ugly for bloggers

Plagiarism: The re-posting of another's content without permission, quotation, or link-back referencing. A definite "No-no" among bloggers, in general, and in the W101 blogosphere, especially.

I've only had to deal with this once, long ago, when a blogger mistakenly took one of my pics for the "Great Gobbler Giveaway" as KI stock art. (A bit of a compliment, actually). Once that blogger discovered it was a HiaG "original" derivitave work, they were quick to edit their blog with an attribution link. "no harm, no foul", there.

Not so, currently, where I have witnessed point-blank copy/paste of a Community Leader's recent post, (one of several examples, I've been told). I'm not here to point out the perpetrator(s) nor the victim(s), merely to highlight the action, itself.

Any long-time blogger can tell you that "content creation" is the hardest part of blogging, really. When you're first starting out, your head is swimming with all the ideas of things you're going to write about. Over time, that pool of inspiration gets depleted, and has to be replenished. Ever-changing conditions help keep "ideas fresh", (such as the explosion of content with WinterTusk), and there's plenty of room for everyone to write their views. The idea that someone would routinely cut/paste someone else's content (KI press releases, excepted), is just plain wrong, and to me, a violation of Oath Keeping. W101 bloggers who persist in taking the "easy road" in blogging will fast find out they've lost their seat on the Community Bus.

Did a fellow blogger write something you liked? Exellent! You want to forward it, on your blog? Quote, and attribute it:

Fallon Shadowblade knows how it's done.

Why, DoaW had a "field day" with the "Mystery Composer tRick-roll", and Fallon Shadowblade followed every proper step (Thanks, Fallon!). Everybody wins, everybody is happy. (And I promise, no more 'tRick-rolls', for the rest of 2011). So, as you can see from this example, even reporting another's blogger's posts can be content, itself, if done properly.

Keeping in mind that a "truly, truly original idea" is about as rare as Unicorns (outside The Spir@l ), there are as many ways to "say" the same thing as there are people to say them. That being said, pasting someone else's words in your blog, without attribution, is akin to saying "I have no ability to speak for myself". If that's truly the case, perhaps it's time to re-examine why you want to be a blogger.

"Where have I seen this before?"

Be Original, and Be Well.

For John Lifeglen

2011-04-29T13:22:00.000-04:00

My "Slaying Buddy" John Lifeglen and I have many, many conversations, and this twisted idea is the result of one of them. I promised/threatened I'd do this, and well, it's about time, "Just because".

Once Wintertusk, and the Level 58 pets go LIVE, I've made arrangements that all Balance wizards will still get their Judgement pets..except John. He gets an uber-rare uh, "hybrid" pet, right off the bat:

Muah-ha-ha-ha!

Headdesk Well!

OMG! OMG! OMG! I stumbled across the answer!

2011-04-28T21:27:00.000-04:00

One of the perks of being an Official Fansite, is I have access to the KI Media folder. It's usually a place for news outlets, when reporting on KI.

Someone at KingIsle planned too far in advance, and they mistakenly already added the big reveal video for the "Mystery Composer"! Maybe KI is preparing for a multi-media news outlet reveal, because (having seen it) , I can agree that yes, this is newsworthy. Maybe it's just too "crazy busy", at KI, with all the stuff they're working on. I pride myself on being to ferret hidden things out of obscurity.

I think heads at KI are gonna roll, (and probably mine, too for posting this too soon), but I believe in "Journalistic Integrity", and believe you, the readers have "a right to know". So, accepting full responsibility for my actions, I will post, what could end up being HiaG's "Swan Song". "Better to go out with a bang", says I.

Having seen this video, I can tell you, it's *definitely* a "kid-friendly" performer, someone I would have *never* guessed in a million years, it hit me so out of the blue! I went through all the "logical" choices, and the video hit me like a ton of bricks, I believe even our beloved DittoMonster will be excited over this:

WARNING! MAJOR SPOILERS!

DO NOT WATCH, IF YOU WANT IT TO BE A SURPRISE!

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED

Can't wait for the comments on *this* one! Let's discuss this exciting news!

Shot in the Dark after the 'mystery composer'

2011-04-28T15:49:00.005-04:00

Well, with KI's history of kid friendly demographics, and business history with Disney Artists, my initial "best guess" is Miley Cyrus, (a.k.a. "Hannah Montana".). MIley's a composer, she's been on Saturday Night Live, and does not have the initials "J.B." (insert sigh of relief).

Miley is currently on tour, and has the "Get Ur Good on" campaign , as well. Both of which are viable for cross-promotion.

Now, my initial premise of it even *being* a Disney Artist may be flawed, (but I'm playing statistical probability, here), and we only have the one (updated) clue. I don't claim to have the Perfect Magic 8 Ball, and my guess is subject to change with the very next hint.

Grandmother Raven much, Miley?

"Avis Cyrus" from "Can't be tamed" Rare black bird in a cage.

Just a glimpse into the thought process, is all. Having fun with it, actually.

And, btw, Yes, I *do* like "Can't be tamed". Funny it's on the same playlist as "Year without rain", huh?

Be Well!

2011-04-28T13:13:00.002-04:00

Mysterious Musical Artist Composes Soundtrack for New Wizard101 World

PLANO, TEXAS (APRIL 28, 2011) – KingsIsle Entertainment, creators of the award-winning online game Wizard101, announced today that the soundtrack for its upcoming expansion world, Wintertusk, was composed by one of the hottest young musical talents in the entertainment industry. Over the course of several weeks the company plans to provide hints about the composer’s identity, culminating in a final reveal timed to Wintertusk’s launch later this spring.

"This is a cool idea, because our mystery composer has a huge name in the music business but has never created music for a video game,” said J. Todd Coleman, vice president and creative director of Wizard101. “I’m really impressed by this artist's adaptability and talent. I think our players are going to be very surprised and totally blown-away."

To create the soundtrack for Wintertusk, the mystery artist composed seven original pieces of music, each representing a different facet of the upcoming epic storyline. Additional information about the world of Wintertusk can be found at "https://www.wizard101.com/game/april2011"
Wintertusk continues the storyline that began in the icy world of Grizzlehiem, offering a variety of challenges for accomplished Wizards and fantastic rewards such as new spells, high-level pets and exclusive loot. For lower-level players the expansion brings back the underwater realm of Crab Alley, continuing the story of the Crab King, newly returned from his musical world tour.

Wizard101 is one of the most popular online games in the United States, "https://www.wizard101.com/game/announcements/2011january24" attracting more than 15 million registered users since its launch in 2009. Designed to provide safe and fun online entertainment for the entire family, Wizard101 continues to experience extraordinary growth and r eceive industry acclaim

Check HERE for more on the Facebook Guessing game hints.

If "Beiber Fever" hits The Spir@l, I'm gonna cry.

Mad Science in Theorycrafting

2011-04-27T16:25:00.002-04:00

(since my keyboard and mouse came as a bundle, I thought I'd "bundle" 2 posts, today)

Yes, I know, I know. The stitching of wands isn't even "LIVE" yet, but I'm a Greedymancer, and I know what I wanna see see next: Mad Science!

If Kevin Battleblood could PvP me right now, he probably would. :)

If you think about it, it kinda makes sense, doesn't it? It's sorta the "Next logical step" in W101 customization. Say, for instance, I want the appearance of my Ghost Hound (Jasmine), but all the stats of Ginger, ('Snaps'), my Fierce hound with Spritely. Any of you 'hard core' breeders out there know that such a combination is highly unlikely, atm. Well nigh impossible, you might claim.

You would still have to train, and train, and train some more, to get the 'stats' you want, but once you have them, you could apply them to the 'skin' of any pet in your possession. Just think of all the 'expensive house decorations' wandering around- a chance for "A New Life". That, or we can start "recycling" pets, in return for reagents. 'Stitching' seems the more (virtually) humane thing to do. A Krokomummy that's really a Sea Dragon, a Skeletal Warrior that's really an Ice Colossus: oh, the possibilities are endless!

Just think of the beautiful chaos it would create! Just like stitched wands, you'd never really know what to expect in PvP. "What?!? Their staff is really a Lifeforce Blade, and their Piggle is really a Helephant! ". Looking up your opponent's stats in PvP would likely get a bit more interesting, Muah-ha-ha-ha!

And, just for record's sake, such a cosmetic change wouldn't (or should I say "shouldn't" ), affect the fine database of The Petnome Project, where 'base stats are still base stats'. Hopefully, this spares me the Wrath of KBB and Team TPC, lol. "Gee, Autumn, wish you hadn't delved into PvP, already".

Just know this: Should 'Pet Stitching' ever become a reality- in your head, and around The Spir@l, a single cry will be heard:

Muah-ha-ha-ha!

Be Well!

Updates

2011-04-27T14:05:00.003-04:00

Well, first and foremost, guess who *finally* got a new keyboard? Yup, I can now talk/type more, (Oh, joy. "Lucky" you. :| )

Logitech MK320 Wireless keyboard/mouse bundle- "I LIVE!"

Took "R" and our mutual friend, Corwin on a "Fun Run" of Malistaire last night. It was a nail biter. Not that it was "hard" (Corwin and I are both Lvl 60), but we unintentionally ended up "racing the clock" to last night's Server Maintenance. When I say we "cut it close", I mean we seriously had less than one minute left before Old Mali fell. The tension of fighting, with the server countdown messages ticking away, felt like a Bomb Disposal mission: "Red wire or blue? RED WIRE OR BLUE!?!". If Corwin hadn't saved the day, that run would've been 'fail', not something my ego would have accepted, lightly. That unintentional tension of beating the clock really added something: perhaps, in the future, KI could add 'countdown timers' to certain 'high risk' missions, because it *really* added something to the gameplay.

I logged in today, in both Test and Live, and saw both had patching going on. Checking Test to see if the graphics problems *automagically* disappeared, I found they did not. My new description of me trying to play Wintertusk is "Open-eyed, in a blizzard of stained glass shards". I can tell by local conversations that I'm not the only one experienceing this, and have every faith KI will have all made right.
Conversely, I found that my graphics client has now "hard crashed" on LIVE , several times, in Ravenwood, (in front of Bartleby), in the Shopping District, (that's new), and with *something* in Gardening (Finally made Grandmaster Gardener.). Now, I've always had some 'black hole' glitching in Ravenwood, and have had the occasional "Mothra" butterfly, but never to the point of crashing, and locking my computer up.

The Butterfly of Doom strikes The Commons

I can't say for sure whether it's my antiquated laptop, (which has every update available), or something in the game code. All I do know is this is a bad harbinger, for me. If unresolved, I'm gonna need a new computer, an investment that will be a difficult pill to swallow. If KingsIsle ever came out with a branded laptop, optimized for W101, I would *so* be "in the market". Just think, a pseudo-"spellbook" design, that ran W101 with all the "bells and whistles", wherever you went! Ah, one can dream, right?

Don't forget, tonight is Ravenwood Radio:

Wednesday, April 27th at 8:30pm Central time for the live recording of episode 39

And, you may have (or have not) noticed the updated banner, plugging Cassandra Griffindreamer's Poison Ivy, because I don't want it to get lost in the noise of Wintertusk and Test Realm. Seems that Cassandra and Luke Goldhorn have already completed Wintertusk. (*sigh*). At least I can *see*, without the stained glass blizzards.

Kevin Battleblood and Team TPC beat Waterworks, and it looks like It's gonna be THE "Go to" place, for gear, when it goes live. Also, check out the Talents of the Spirit of Nature pet, seems it's gonna be a "must have", be sure to give Kevin a 'thanks' for all his hard work on the Petnome Project.

I think that's enough updates about updates, for now.

Be Well!

Putting the "test" in Test Realm

2011-04-26T13:42:00.005-04:00

Keep in mind test realm is just that. It's not the finished product. Testing is all about making sure it's ready. Many, many wizards on Test are having a wonderful time with the new content that KI is gonna give us on live, once it's ready. Sadly, I am not one of them. It's not that the new content is *bad* (well, except maybe "Dark Pact", which Stephen Spiritcaller agrees with. Even that is still *test*.

I have been a beta tester for many, many games. In that time, you develop a certain 'mindset' when testing the unfinished product. Patience is a definite virtue, because that little elusive 'bug' could be a single alphanumeric character hidden in a haystack of game code. So, to help visualize what *this* tester is encountering, I offer this post, for review, in hopes of helping find the hidden needles in the code. I have found that the problems I encounter aren't gameplay related , so much as graphic related. My problems arise (and are repeatable) with certain NPC's/mobs, while others run "as intended"

The new Crab Alley. Beautiful place.

Catherine's Room

"Catherine", herself.

First off is "Catherine", in Crab Alley. She is the only issue I run across. It's the same with all the examples listed. I can look/see fine, until certain NPC's come into camera view. Catherine is one of them. Her room renders just fine, until I swing my viewpoint to her.

The rest of Crab Alley is just visually appealing.

Catherine is my only "issue" in the Crab Alley zone. Crab Alley, overall, is beautifully rendered.

Deep Warren

So, we move on to Deep Warren MOST of it is 100% fine, except for 2 NPC's/mobs

This "Modern Art" is called "Glowfish in a tunnel"

Glowfish, both "in the wild", and captured in the tunnel, present graphic chaos, and so Does Dr. Zigmund.
Dr. Zigmund is (initially) as bad as "Catherine". Again, only a problem when the NPC is in view. Upon re-entering, for a repeat battle, the Dr.Z issue is 'different', but noticeable:

Dr. Zigmund. Notice the Eel is unaffected.

Anyways,, on a minor note, the "Rocking Outfit" you get as a reward, for me, may as well be "The Emperor's New Clothes", or better yet, Predator Cloaking Robes:

Rocking like Predator

And it's not just mine, it's other's "Rocking Outfits", as well. (from my camera). Others can see them just fine, but I can't see any. John and I had a good laugh over this. Hmmm... maybe I can 'Cloak' in the Arena, Muah-ha-ha-ha!

Each dark gray line points to another Frost Bones

The final stop on my test the Frost Bones. Singularly, a flawed NPC is problematic. Put several in a field, and it becomes a graphic-crashing nightmare. Again it's not the environments, only when certain NPC/Mobs are in camera view. For instance, I can see the gates clearly, so long as no Frost Bones are in my camera view.

A Beta Tester's old friend, DxDiag

Like I said, I'm an old Beta Tester, and more often than not, a graphics issue report required an attatched "DxDiag". In the spirit of that same "hoping to help", I've posted my DxDiag, from "Toshiba-san". It's long, and technical, so I'll bid you a "be well", in advance.

I have every faith that these issues are minor, and KI will squash 'em , in no time. KI has a great track record of making W101 accessible to even low-end PC's. I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of testing the Test Realm, and hope that, together, we can make and ever-expanding Spir@l even better.

Be well.

Test Realm Observations, Day One

2011-04-25T23:40:00.003-04:00

Well, first thing I did was run straight to Eloise to try what The whole Spiral has asked for: stitching of wands and staffs! You know what? "Works as Advertised", wizards. Went and tested my (near antique) Amarinthine Staff with the (Crowns) Lifeforce Blade, as illustrated:

KI listens to us. Thank you, KI

Now PvP will get even *more* confusing, as you can't tell "for sure" what your opponent has. What if, *gasp*, you could 'stitch' pets? Pure chaos!

Next, off to the Crowns Shop. There are Ram Mounts, (several varieties), and a Spirit of Nature Pet. Think "Ghost Hound meets Colossus":

Sweet Pet. Life AND Death. Wonder what talents...?

And I did the Crab Alley (low level) quest line. My laptop started having extreme graphics issues, particularly with Catherine, the Glowfish, and Dr. Zigmund. The "Rocking Outfit", (which I'm told looks good), showed as completely invisible, to me. Head, hands, and feet- no torso. I'm gonna write this up as "my end", given the battered history of my laptop. Even in Ravenwood, my graphical client crashed/reset several times. I can't wait to see my outfit, lol.

Here's where your quest starts and ends.

I also picked up the Waterworks quest: Level? Bring Legendary Friends. Your*first* battle is against 4 Level 10 Elites. I can't say what's beyond them, *wobble*

Got my "35" Death Spell upgrade, and really don't care for it: "Dark Pact" a 500health self-hit, in exchange for a +30%, 'next attack' blade. And don't try it if you already have a Death Blade on you, because it *will* trigger. Have to test it more, but forget using it with Crit Gear, atm. Like Sacrifice, and Empower, unless you have heavy, heavy Death Resist, Dark Pact simply costs too much, for what it offers, imo.

I'll certainly do the quest again, when it goes live, "just in case".

Crafted items are now marked with the crafting 'beaker' icon, in your inventory,and at Bazaar:

Which makes me wonder: will we be able to eventually *decompose* items into reagents? Magic 8 Ball says "Ask again later". Would make sense, though.

Also, new badges to be earned, both in Crab Alley, and in the Spiral:

Raven Badge(s)!

More later, as the situation develops. Be sure to read the April Update Notes!

Be well!

Test Realm ONLINE! SO much is coming MUST SEE!

2011-04-25T18:28:00.003-04:00

Must go.

You *HAVE* to read the April Update Notes.

This is only *partial*! So much to digest!

Theorycrafting: A question of floating towers

2011-04-25T13:27:00.000-04:00

*cracks knuckles*, stretches, and wiggles fingers...

Well, it's about time to get some Theorycrafting in, and this is what's 'floating' around in my mind. Keep in mind, while reading this, the following two things.

1) I do not claim this as 100% "original".Probably not even 50%. It *has* to have been thought of, before: I'm just too much of a Lazymancer to go look for it. No idea, nowadays, is ever *truly* original, and there are too many clever wizards out there, and it just seems so *obvious*, to me. This is just my own peculiar take on the subject.

2) It's posted "as if" KingsIsle didn't already have enough to work on, atm. With Roaming Mounts, Wintertusk, (and who knows what else?), this'd probably be pretty low on their scale of "oh, we gotta do this!"-probaby just above "turn off servers". This is just a "what if", to get it out of my cranium.

That being said, let's carry on, shall we?

Well, Easter is now past, and Eggbert will be saying goodbye, (whenever), and I'm at a bit of a loss. KingsIsle puts on "a really good show", and this isn't meant to besmirch them, it's only my greedy little viewpoint. Of course , it's easy to "think something up" (my job), as opposed to actually *making* it happen, (their job). I can theorycraft the day away, and never have to worry about a single line of game code. Ah, the joys of being a blogger! But, I digress..

Now, it will come as no surprise to anyone who reads HiaG that Halloween is my most favorite-est holiday, bar none. Being a Necromancer, I believe Halloween ought be 365 days a year, in the Spiral. However, others would readily disagree, as is their right. One of the great things about Halloween ITS is The Towers. You know the ones I'm talking about: "Easy, Medium, and Bring Some Friends". It's pretty much an annual event. Farming season for the elusive Wraith Statue. *poof*, the Towers are there, as if they always had been, and when the time is past, *poof*, they're gone. All very 'wizardy', in it's own way. Wouldn't change a thing.

But what about the "other" holidays? "Events" in Wizards City are few, and far between, many of them "one time completions". I love in-game events, myself, and we have a lot of Holidays that could use some "Event Treatment".Shouldn't they have quests and towers as well? And holiday-themed Bosses with holiday-drops?
The annual appearance of our Holiday NPC's, as welcome as they are, sometimes represent only a "shopping opportunity", which is all well and good, but like I said, I'm greedy. "Do want game".
Yes, it's true that W101 does have "events", but I just can't help but feel that, (unless it's a game engine limitation), that a "process" could be put in place for KI to customize to a particular calendar season or event. (Like I said, I have the easy job).

It's simple to just say "Make it so!", but how would the mechanics of that play out?

I have an idea.(This is where you roll your eyes and sigh, "Here we go, again!")

Good old Elik's Edge. It doesn't really *do* much, right? I'm not even entirely certain of the backstory of why the cliff in The Shopping District rates it's own name. What if, just *if*, it was actually a "Port of Call" for a myriad set of "Holiday Towers", to routinely "make berth", at calendar-appropriate times? Think of the Spiral Chamber in Merle Ambrose's place as a sort of "Air Traffic Control Radar Room".

"Roger that, Holiday Tower, you are cleared for approach to Elik's Edge, over."

Just like the Halloween Towers, (which should stay where they are), Eggbert could have his own annual quest line, requiring some brave young wizards to "storm the tower". "Oh, noes! Esther Rabid stole my eggs! Can you get them back?" kind of a thing. Float a Holiday-painted tower on a chunk of rock, add some sigils, and Presto! Or, add 3 floating towers, ( "Easy, Medium, and Bring Some Friends"). Same concept, really.

Elik's Edge. Not just for 'glitch flying', anymore

And of course, as a 'Professional Nemesis', I couldn't suggest a Boss Tower, without Bosses, right? I believe every Holiday NPC deserves equal-opportunity adversity in the nemesis department. And with Gardening so well-entrenched, why not Theorycraft Holiday Bosses, *and* Holiday Seed drops, while we're at it? It just makes sense, (even though I may not).Warning: Horrific concept 'art' and wordplay ahead!

New Year's Boss "Lazarus Anno" (Wraith)
Quest "That's so Last Year"
Objective: Retrieve the Eternal Hourglass, and enforce Lazarus's "retirement"..
Holiday Plant: Owlglass Plant

Christmas: Grunk (a green 'Cablooey' with a Red Jingle hat)
Quest "The Grunk who swiped Feliz Navidad"
Objective: Retrieve the "nice" list from the Tower of Maladjusted toys.
Holiday Plant: Spearmint Canes

Thanksgiving: Tom Gobbler (A Gobbler, of course, give him a feathered hat, or something)
Quest "Knock the stuffing out of him"
Objective: Retrieve the Enchanted Gravy Ladle, for the Feast
Holiday Plant: Drumstick Flower, with gravy.

Easter: Esther Rabid (Yeah, put a BOSS in a Bunny suit!)
Quest "Who framed Esther Rabid?"
Objective: Tame a crazed rabbit Boss who lost her job painting eggs.
Holiday Plant: Eggplant, of course.

And of course, the list goes on, but you get the idea. I won't insult your intelligence with more bad wordplay, and such low-quality graphics.

But I couldn't resist a Halloween plant, before you go: Vampire Glucose Corn:

Never trust a candy that doesn't expire.

(This is what happens when you blog a 2:30 a.m.)

But the question remains: will we (or should we) have more in-game seasonal events? Float me a comment, will ya? Let me know what you think.

Yes? No? or "Take a flying leap off Elik's Edge"?

Be Well!

Happy Spring Renewal

2011-04-24T19:34:00.006-04:00

A message from my pet egg, this day:

As close to a "Death Egg" as one can expect.

In the spirit of renewal and rebirth, I spent the day not killing, but creating. I crafted not one, not two, but THREE statues today. One for the Garden, and two for The Statuary.

Functional, and pretty cool looking, too. win/win.

The "caft-a-palooza" started with the Crab Claw Statue to help appease my Flytraps. I have the Oni Gong for my Trumpet Vines, and the Regal Dragon Statue and Celestia Power Converters for for my Malestorm Snapdragons. I also *finally* found about about the "Secret Boss" (Knowledgekeeper'sTower) in Dragonspyre, who dropped my "liked" Dragon Skull.

It's funny, you know how it says "DSPRE" in the tower? Well, add "Agony", and you have DAGONSPYRE. I just found that amusing, in a "gallows humor" kind of way.

My plot is a bit too ambitious, I think. My energy can't keep up with the vast expanse of plant needs.

Hail a renewed day in The Spir@l

Once that was done, I couldn't help but notice the other 2 recipes available, ones that *didn't* require any blasted sunstones, (like the Crab Claw did). Why, aside from the high cost of the recipies themselves, the reagent list was positively pleasant. A few runs through The Chancel provided all the funding I needed to etch today's progress in virtual stone.

I've really been on a "statue kick", lately, and my Pet Farming has been put on hiatus.

"Behold, the Magic of Blossoms, in bloom"

So, once the first 'decorative' statue was completed, I couldn't help but "complete the set", as it were. Another Chancel run, and the non-sunstone reagents were easily accquired.

I mean, really, KI, the whole "sunstone" thing is a bit out of balance, in my opinion. Not that they should necessarily be any *easier* to get, (the majority of mine get sniped at The Bazaar), but the exceptional number of items requiring sunstones (hats, boots, robes, rings, athames, statues) makes them seem a bit rarer than they should be. Even the sandstone for transmutaion is 'rare', which seem counter-intuitive to me. If you need 15x sandstone to get 1 sunstone, and a recipe calls for 10 sunstones, that's a whole lot of sandstone that "ought" be a little more available to farm. Golden Pearls are "rare", but much more accessible via transmutation with repetitive farming runs of The Portico. The rarity of sunstones, and their trans-mutational reagents factored against their demand, just seems "off", to me. I know it's not supposed to be easy, but it shouldn't be quite so farminantion-tastic, either, imo.

Anyways, sunstones are not my friend. Enough of that, we're talking cration, growth, and renewal.

Speaking of growth and renewal, Cassandra Griffindreamer *already* has the next pages (Pages 2 AND 3) for "Poison Ivy" out, and the story is growing quite nicely, by my estimation. Some proper back story, and the subtle building of tension makes me ever more curious how this drama will play out.

Poison Ivy, Page 2

Poison Ivy, Page 3

Cassandra is definitely going "full tilt", and putting a lot of effort into this project, so why not drop by WitchWarrior101 and drop her a 'thanks', or "good job'. I know *I* appreciate her efforts. Any blogger looks forward to comments, to let them know their work is not in vain, and it's a good way to make friends.

Anyways, hope your Day of Renewal finds you in good health, and happy.

Be Well!

Seeing things

2011-04-23T22:53:00.002-04:00

Promises made, are promises kept.

Let's see, nothing major to report, here, except that at the behest of my Sparring Partner and "Slaying Buddy", John Lifeglen, I crafted my "Undead Deck" from Flotating Land, so now I positively 'emphatically dislike' sunstones. I have so much room in my spell deck now, that I'm positively *guaranteed* that the *one* card I need in battle will be completely lost in the shuffle. I can see it now.

My Gardening is 3/4 to rank 10, and those pesky Garden Imps are attacking en masse. Energy is at a premium, atm. It seems whenever I dispatch one, another pops in to fill the void not a hour later. I wish I could figure their 'attack pattern', ahead of time.

No Farmination today, but I still owe "R" machine-like grinding of General Akilles for her Blue Ghost. Promises are meant to be kept, after all. I will see to it.

In other blogger's news, we have Cassandra Griffindreamer, famed artist of The Spir@l with her first installment of "Poison Ivy", and in typical Cassandra fashion, Thomas Lionblood "gets it", right off the bat. Ah, even when he's not here, it's just *fun* to poke at The GreatFather. Fortunately, he's got a sense of humor, or I'd be toast.

I just love the unbridled creativity that Cassandra shows.

I am just positively bemused that Cassandra can take an "one off" idea, and elaborate it to it's full potential.
Looking forward to more, Cassandra!

Sometimes, Ginger refuses to cast Sprite.

Also, we want to wish Kestrel Shadowthistle a big "Get Well"...."Lifer, heal thyself!". I'd cast Satyr on thee, but it's lost in my Undead Deck. Yeah, saw that coming.

Ability to see the Future simulated.

And, welcoming to the Graveyard blogroll, The Elementalists, who seem, in my opinion, to have great potential, (should they persevere), and are currently ruminating on the plethora of 'new/unlisted' items in The Bazaar. I for one, would like to know where my Raven Brazier came from...(from Eitri Shadowmirk , actually). I'm, of course hoping to see more "Raven-inspired" pieces as Wintertusk opens up, you know, with Grandmother Raven, and all.

And speaking of things I'd like to know more about, one thing for sure is "Nighttime Mode" (Buh!?!) , as depicted by Maniac Magic. A dark, 'always night' Spir@l? Oh, yes, sign me up! First we get rid of the "Sunshine", then the Unicorns, then.. well, "one step at a time", right?

Spir@l Weather Forecast: 100% chance of Darkness.

Well, sorry, that's all I got for you, atm. I'll see if I can find more for the future.

Be Well!

Judgement Day

2011-04-22T03:00:00.002-04:00

April 21st, 2011. Judgement Day. Not just a day for 'Farminators'. (Oh, and while "Farminatng" General Akilles with "R", I got my Cyclops. "R" is my lucky charm.)

It is also the day I enrolled in the "Ravenwood School of Hard Knocks", the Arena, ranked.

But Autumn, you don't PvP...ever.

That *was* true, just days ago, but no longer.

After receiving advice and pointers from my PvP Elders, like Cassandra DragonHeart, Kevin Battleblood, and my sparring partner (and "Slaying Buddy"), John Lifeglen, I "dove in, with both feet" and went straight to ranked matches.

But Autumn, why ranked?

Well, I believe one can study 'just so much' from the sidelines. The view from the spectator's seat is significantly paler that the view on 'the front lines', and 'practice' means nothing is at stake, hence not as 'serious'. "Nothing ventured, nothing gained.". In Ranked, everyone brings their " 'A' Game". That's where I'll learn the most, and I've learned a lot, already. Things I must discuss with my mentors, before I elaborate further. I'm still learning, and don't yet know how much I don't know.

So, April 21st, 2011, I played over 20 matches, and won 11. Judgement Day.

However, today is April 22nd, 2011. It's Earth Day.

As a Life (secondary), I guess I should wave the leafy green banner, occasionally.

Inspirational

Earth Day. Green Planet.

Just as Judgement Day has passed to a day of renewal, and just as I hold that The Spir@l is heading towards Ragnarok, to be followed by renewal, there is no catastrophe that cannot be overcome with focus, persistence, and Teamwork. It's true of most thing in life.

Be Hardworking.
Be Dedicated.
Be Proactive
Be Unified.
Be Loyal.
Be Well.

Drop, already!

2011-04-21T15:45:00.000-04:00

Putting extra kill in Akilles. He lies.

Spent "some" time, yesterday, trying to 'fill in' some acquisition gaps trying to get the cursed Cyclops Statue.

Autumn, you don't have that yet, lol?

No, I do not. I did a repetitive grind on the General for 2 HOURS, yesterday, and nada.
Not that it's a 'hard' battle, mind you.. 2-3 rounds in a 4 mana cost match (1 vampire, 2 wand strikes).
I've collected 4 Blue Ghosts (bonus!), several Dark Wooden Shelves, a couple Prop Houses, and more Jade Studded Athames than a Circus Knife-thrower, but no statue.

Heckhound, I've emptied (2) 120 mana bottles grinding this. At 4 mana/battle, that's 60 attempts. Crazy, crazy 'poor luck' on my part. I took "R" on a tour of The Labyrinth in DS, and my Kraken Statue just dropped in my lap.

I guess it all "evens out", in the long run. I haven't done 'drop grinding' like this since Oyotomi, (and I *still* need to visit him, again! It's more the principle, now.)

It's true that "Patience is a virtue", but "Detached, machine-like grinding" is an Art.

I'm a friend of General Akilles, I was told he's here. Can I see him, please?

Be Well.

Things to look forward to

2011-04-20T17:29:00.001-04:00

Cassandra Griffindreamer of WitchWarrior101 did this great "teaser" for Poison Ivy, which she plans to do a comic series on, which I am looking forward to.

When I did "Poison Ivy", it was just meant as humor, but if we had proper machinima tools, we could *so* do a fanvid, (which KI will be looking for).

Also, with KI, plenty to look forward to, Roaming Mounts, Level 58 Pets (Scarecrow!Squee!), and of course, Wintertusk.

Another thing I look forward to, is The Return of The GreatFather. (Yes, Thomas Lionblood). I know he *just* 'left', but I'm still struggling with it. Like Cinderella sang: "Don't know what you got ( Till it's Gone)".

To me, Friendly is an integral part of the "Spiral Experience", and his return to us is something to look forward to. If "absence makes the heart grow fonder", then I'm gonna be a gushy wreck, lol. I mean, I stumbled across Selena Gomez's "A Year Without Rain", and all I could think was "No! You're singing it wrong! Those aren't the right lyrics! Sing it RIGHT!". Yeah, it's gonna be a difficult wait. We, collectively, need to rely on each other. I certainly need my blogmates.

However, it gives me creative opportunities, as well.
Back in my old "Goth Club" days, I used to have one of these:

"Knight's Vigil" votive

So, I figured I'd "Homework" a W101, one:

Remember, Watch, and Wait.

All things to look forward to.

Be Well.

Theorycrafting: Skills combo!

2011-04-19T14:06:00.009-04:00

Looking back, (and forward), it seems to me that KI is setting us up for an impressive 1-2-3 "k.o.", in regards to Crafting, and *most* of the pieces are already in place.

First of all, the Skill of Crafting itself. With it, we can collect "bits n' bobs", and mash 'em up, and *poof*, we have a completely new item. Look at the vast array of the different reagents we have, already, right?

Secondly, we have Gardening. Sure, it's a fun skill, and already offers reagents, of a sort. I personally don't think we've seen Gardening's full potential, yet. Also, I think the term"gardening" throws people's mental image off, a bit. Doesn't sound very "wizardy",does it? Think of it, (for purposes here), more as "Herbcrafting".. lot of potential to harvest plant/vegetable reagents.

Now, ever since Grizzleheim first came out, long ago, people all over The Spiral (myself included), have theorycrafted over this guy:

Silent Haarek, holding his tongue. And potential.

Haarek Silverscale has silently stood vigil for a long time. Like other GH NPC's, I believe he, and others are "placemarkers", waiting Wintertusk's expansion of Grizzleheim. Haarek could very well be our first step in our next skill...

The third skill: Fishing. Many have contemplated, wished for, and theorycrafted it, but how would it "play out"? Picture this, if you will: Just like the Selena Gomez "anchor" was a portal to Crab Alley, Haarek could be the first (or one) of multiple "Fishing trainers", across The Spiral. Just like re-visiting the multiple worlds for Crafting, we may level up fishing skills (and equipment) such as fishing rods, bobbers, and hooks. Ask any fisherman or woman, there's a lot of different gear, for a lot of different fish. We'll all have "fishing decks" to cast from, using our "Fishing wands" in battle.
With Celestia, we already fight "fish", but they're far too anthropomorphised. A "fishing zone" could be like any other dueling circle battle zone, but with fish that are much less "people like". Think of the range of fish we could fight, from Goldfish to Marlin, to Great White Sharks. All of them dropping necessary reagents for yet *another* skill...

Skill, the Fourth: Cooking. Virtual avatars need kitchens about as much as they need lavatories. Like "Gardening", (think "Herbcrafting"), with Cooking ,think "Potion Brewing".This is a step beyond Pet Snack crafting.
With Cooking, we can expand a wizard's ability to craft potions. From stat boosts to transformations, all incrementally available as multiple Skill sets come into play. (KI has a great track record for making Crowns stuff available in-game, as 'drops').

The next 'crafting stations'?

Just think: you're about to hit the Arena, and you craft an 'PvP only' stat boost potion,"Uber Soup". Now, you worked long and hard on this potion: The recipe took Grandmaster Crafting to even buy the recipe to make it, and required rare "Herbs", a unique set of Fish, and some odd reagent like (*cough*) sunstone (*cough*) and had to be Brewed (Cooked) 'just right', like a Grandmaster Chef. This potion is 'no trade, no auction', so it's the only way to get this rare boost...and you've earned it by your own abilities. Same for PvE potions, or rare no-other-way Polymorphs or Transformations, like a "Death Mithraya" Transformation (OMG, yes! Please, KI? Pleeeeze?)

Just thought I'd give you "something to chew on", lol

Kitchens in Lands and Castles could go from 'decorative' to 'functional', and prove useful to our wizards, unlike the 'other' virtual avatar "un-necessity" which has no use, except questionable humor:

Here's a "crafting station" a virtual avatar will never need, a "throne".

Be Well!

Villian seeking Hero for long-term adversarial relationship

2011-04-18T19:56:00.001-04:00

Me: Sarcastic, Irrational, Short-fused, Plotting, Reclusive, and Opportunistic

You: Honorable, Polite, Patient, Knowledgeable, and Sociable. Must possess tremendous creativity, and have excellent community leadership skills... just like Friendly.

Apply to Dworgyn for consideration.

Yes, dear readers, Thomas Lionblood has cast 'Earthquake', and the shocks can be felt all across The Spiral, and the blogosphere. The King Arthur of W101's Camelot is stepping back. The GreatFather of W101 blogging requires rest.

This doesn't come as a surprise so much as the fact that "It's really happening". For the watchful, there have always been seismic rumblings from TFN. Honestly, nobody deserves a break more than Friendly. Almost 3 years, and 1,250+ posts is a track record unequaled by any other single W101 blogger. Heckhound, you could combine 2, 3, or even 4 other blogger's accumulated statistics, and *still* not equal that of The Friendly Necromancer.

Years ago, it was Tom that inspired me to blog, and I'm still trying to absorb the wide-spread ramifications of this event. Friendly is (still) our cornerstone. I know that he's not *gone* "gone", but a Spiral without TFN just feels a lot, lot, emptier.

Still, nothing ITS is "absolute", ( I'm living proof of that), and I take heart in Friendly's words:

" I am, however, taking a break while I gather some new ideas as I try to figure out a new direction. The format of this blog may change or may become part of something grander..." (emphasis mine)

Thomas is the most important person KingsIsle never hired, and even should he choose to discontinue TFN, he is guaranteed countless legions of friends that will fondly remember him. I am priveledged to count myself among them.

Thomas, if you read this, know that I am a better person for having known you. You will ever be my inspiration, my GreatFather, and my friend. It is my sincere wish that you find your rest, and return to us refreshed, because it's gonna be Helephant difficult to find so worthy an 'opponent' as you.

Rest well.

A new movie hits The Spir@l

2011-04-18T15:20:00.003-04:00

This Summer, it's gonna get creepy.

Starring Autumn Duskhunter as "Poison Ivy" Thomas Lionblood as "Severe Lee Scratchy"

Ashley Duskhunter as "Creeper" and introducing Cassandra Griffindreamer as "Calamine"

Soundtrack by The Hollies and The Jonas Brothers

"Positively contagious!" - Siskel and Eggbert

"Nine and a half scratches, out of ten!" -Merle Ambrose

"What...mean...'itchy'?" - a stupefied collossus

Yup, you guessed it! My Ring and Athame set is complete. If I never see another sunstone again, it'll be too soon. Now, on with other 'projects'...

(What, you expected "sunshine and unicorns"?) Muah-ha-ha-ha-ha!

Be well!

Artful musings.

2011-04-17T22:43:00.004-04:00

Hey, EveryBunny, err...Pony, err, "Duck". (Not a Duck!)

Let's start off with some W101-inspired art antics, shall we?

First off, Cassandra Griffindreamer keeps the fire going with her "Looney Toons" depiction of the "costume battle poke" (CosPlay, ITS?!?), between Friendly and I, with "Loony Buddies":


Ah, the classics never die. "Wabbit season! Duck Season!..." Waitaminute!

And apparently, Cassandra's Poll indicates the Friendly Bunny would overwhelmingly survive "W101 Hunting Season", whereas poor old Autumn Duckhunter (Not a Duck!) got only 2 votes...and one was my own! *Sigh*, you just can't compete with a Spir@l Rock Star, lol. Vote for the Duck!, uh, I mean "Raven"!

You're Despicably popular, Friendly!

And also in Art, my very own Ashley Duskhunter fired off an impressive "Family Portrait", based off of the "W101 in Unicorns" post. Ashley laughed at me for even posting "My Little Pony", but was soon 'educated' when she watched the source episode. A good, solid message knows no artistic limitations. I must say, I'm pleased with Ashley's progress in image editing, all done with the tricks I use in MS Paint.:

Yes, definitely Duskhunters, all of 'em.

Bunnies, Ponies, Ducks....*sheesh*! Feeling a bit like a zoo in here, lately-.Nevermind when Roaming Mounts go live.

K, then. Well, I'm "only" 5 quintiple-cursed sunstones away from completing my ring&athame set, to complete my Death/Life re-spec. The Ring is all done, and the "healy bits" work splendiferously (and, no, it's not a word that Tigger made up! Enough with the animal references, already!)!
A few test runs in The Chancel proved I'm on the right track.I figure the Athame will be done tomorrow.Who knows? Maybe I'll (someday) be as good as Cassandra DragonHeart (Ha! Found you!)
Looking forward to Kevin Battleblood's next PvP Party.

Farming for the elusive Death Bat has so many 'new' options I can throw at it!. I'm thinking I need to find a way to participate in the Pet Derby, 'cause I seriously want a Dark Crow, now, for several reasons.

Also, it occurred to me that KI should include some kind of player-enabled "inventory lock", to 'mark' certain items "unsellable", until 'unlocked'. Altogether too many times, I've emptied my backpack of loot, only to *gasp*, search frantically, and breath a sigh in relief that I *didn't* sell a precious item. I would *DIE* if I ever accidentally sold my Amarinthine Staff, it's too much a part of me.

I guess that's enough rambling for now. Always "more on the way"., ;)
Was this post colorful enough for ya? ;P

Be Well !

Wizard life, as I know it

2011-04-16T22:17:00.006-04:00

Well, finally re-specced today, (4k crowns, ouchies!), and chose Life as my new secondary school. Sigh, as much as I want to be total "doom and gloom", yesterday's PvP experience, (plus the responsibility of 'senior' quest helping, with "R", convinced me to drop balance, and "bring a little more to the table". Such is my unceremonious "farewell" to solo-mindedness. Gah, those green sprites are *totally* ruining my 'look', and I can't swat at 'em!

Oh, yeah, feeling the joy, now. :|

But seriously, did a few "test runs", and with some tweaking and practice, I think I could get used to this. That, and having a Life Mastery Amulet helps, too.

However, don't expect me to go all "sunshine and unicorns", though. Yeah, Kestrel and Friendly, I'm talking to you! However, in lieu of my new-found secondary, I'll ( just this once, mind you ), "Party it up", and celebrate W101, "Unicorn Style" Now, I'm no kind of music or video composer, so I stole one instead. Here's W101, in Unicorns (see if you can find the "Autumn Duskhunter" in this crew):

"Fine.", I'm probably gonna regret this, I know.

Anyone who calls me "Twilight Sparkle" is gonna get PvP'd, lol

You can catch the source episode HERE

Be Well!

PvP and me.

2011-04-16T03:33:00.002-04:00

Well, first off, the *neatest* thing happened today, (well, "yesterday", now). As I was out enjoying the all-too-infrequent nice weather here in New England, what should I behold up in the trees above me? A real live, breathing and squawking *raven*. Seems Grandmother Raven must have given me a wink, because of the "new banner", right? At least, that's how I choose to see it. Sadly, the raven wasn't much in the mood for conversation, (that, or my ornithological vocalizations are substandard), and it merely flew off. It's okay, just seeing one after all this reading/reasearching/writing about them is enough for me. (Gosh, they're bigger than the pictures let on).

Black Birds on Blogs are larger than they appear

K, secondly, I want to give a less-than-subtle "shoutout" to my friend "R", (You know who you are), "R" is a "Lifer" (with the heart of a Necromancer),whom I've had the absolute pleasure of running around questing with. A good questing companion can totally change the outlook of traipsing across The Spir@l. Even better when you're *way* overpowered for the mobs your questing against. (Makes you feel just spiffy! RAWR!). Seeing The Spir@l again through fresh eyes is a great way of polishing the 'jaded' view away. If you can find a like-minded "lowbie", willing to carry their share (and not expect you to do it for them), then I highly recommend going for it. That's who I found in "R". Helping her is helping me. win/win.

Now, on to the "meat" of the post. PvP.
Let me start by saying that I have no claim to any kind of knowledge or skill when it comes to PvP. None. Zero. Zilch. Nada.

When I say "I don't PvP", I mean I don't PvP...ever.

Zero Calories, Zero experience.

My entire 'PvP history' in W101 consists of *2* casual battles, neither of which bear any kind of 'official' stamp, and one of those battles was today (well, "yesterday", now). I decided to pry my anti-social necromantic posterior out of my comfort zone, at went to Kevin Battleblood's Mid-April PvP Party. And you know what? I'm glad I did.

See, here's the thing: most times when someone says "PvP, (in *any* game), my mind instantly conjures images of insecure adolescents hurling "l33t sp34k" invectives at each other, or smugly denouncing another's PvP escapades as "noobish", or "ID10Tic", or "weaksauce", or, well you get the idea.
Sadly, from what I gather, the same element has been know to rear it's ugly head at Diego's Arena, as well. Formerly known as "chain stunners", (now "Earthquake Spammers"?). Same idea as "griefers", to me.

Regardless of the game, we all know "the type"

It's "that type" that gives PvP a bad name, almost everywhere you go in the gaming world. Mega-leveled, (and mega-bored) self-proclaimed "l33ts" scouring the gamescape, looking for "noobs" to "Pwn", even if it means using cheap tactics. I mean, really, if they could see how immature and desperate they appear in constant need of self-validation.....but, I digress.

PvP the way it should be: fun for all, not just the "winners"

The Party I attended was hosted by Angel Winterbreeze, Kevin Battleblood, and Cassandra Dragonheart, (apologies for any misspells, or unintentional omissions), at Angel's Celestian Observatory. It was a great time.

My original intention was to just go and watch. You know "Do my Homework", and try to get a feel for the thought process. Turns out, I chose to study at a very awkward time. Amulets are turning the PvP world on it's head in W101. (I'll leave clarification on that to wizards better educated than I.)
The thing that really "got me" was the fact that this was *so* unlike my previous exposures to PvP. It was cordial, everybody rooting for everybody, opposing teams admiring their opponent's moves, good sportsmanship all around. In essence, PvP the way it should be. It was kinda inspiring, actually.

Inspiring enough that I had to try it. Yeah, Autumn Duskhunter went PvP'ing today (well, "yesterday", now). Pledging defiantly that I, the unseasoned upstart , wanted to be *against* KBB, I rushed into the circle, and got second ring...right next to Kevin Battleblood. Hmmm... "wrong side". I think I'll reserve my mock enmity for Friendly.
So, anyways, the match went on....and on...and on. Geesh! Going to PvP? Pack a lunch!
I got off to a halfway decent start, but my lack of knowledgable preparation quickly came to the forefront:

"Dang! Forgot to load 'empower'.

"Gee, I should have had 'sacrifice'..."

"Oh, I forgot about 'resists'..."

"Why did I leave *that* spell in there...?"

Needless to say, my second-ever foray into PvP did not see me standing victorious, more "standing wobble-headed", but you know what? With the atmosphere of those who were there, losing meant nothing.Everybody won. It was a learning experience. It was spending time with friends. It was fun. It was what PvP should be. Sure, I did "get" KBB, after all, but it was by my own ineptitude rather than any nascent trace of skill. Instead of being a raven, I was more an albatross around Kevin's neck.
I have a greater respect for the true PvP'ers: the Mathematicians, the Strategists, and the Honorable. Those who can juggle all those ever-shifting variables of both their Team *and* their opponent's Team. It just staggers the mind , all the things to keep track of! Thank you to everyone for such a positive experience!

Anyone curious might want to sign up at DaoW , (Tell Fallon that Autumn sent ya'), and apply to the PvP Party Group. Just be respectful, be nice, and follow the rules (or you get sent to The Commons with a mighty *whooosh*). Maybe that's why there's no Common Courtesy in The Commons..they're all booted trolls. I dunno.

So, at the end of the day, I neither communed with a raven, nor did I stand victorious in PvP. But you know what? I had a great day today (Well, "yesterday", now) Working overnights is so confusing, sometimes.

Be Well!

In a fowl mood

2011-04-14T18:14:00.002-04:00

Yes, the wordplay is intentional.

If Friendly can get a new banner, and be a Bunny, well then , I'll get a new banner, and be a Raven. "Better predator than prey," says I. Behold, my new 'look', (which John Lifglen inferred needing 'updating'). Looks good with Swiftshadow Wings, too.

But more than new looks, it's new stats, as well.
Yes, I finished crafting my 'critical set', and if anyone can put the 'critic' in 'critical', it'd be me. I'm still undecided if this set is worth the farming time. Time, itself, will tell.

The default 'skin' just had to go, so I promptly stitched it all into a "Raven set", in dedication to our forthcoming Grandmother Raven, with Wintertusk, as well as personal reminder of the harsh lessons of Mount Week.

Wabbit Season.

2011-04-13T11:02:00.006-04:00

Bunnies.
Rabbits.
Gak!
Unicorns were bad enough, but Rabbits? The only rabbits I ever liked were in Watership Down.

If you've seen it, "you know". The Black Rabbit of Inlé

"Uh, wow, that's kinda dark, even for you, Autumn."

With, (*sigh*) the advent of the Bunny Suit, (*sigh*) Easter can be with us "year 'wound". Yay.
Waittaminute, maybe I'm looking at this all wong, uh, I mean "all wrong":

Oh, It's definitely "Wabbit Season"

I saw Friendly in his bunny suit, and my brain positively screamed "Spear and Magic Helmet!"

Amulets, of course, are out, as well. Many fine blogs got you covered on that.

Off-school amulets are LIVE

(These will also be Wintertusk Boss Drops,not Celestia, as clarified by Professor Greyrose.)

Also, be sure to check the crowns shop for mini-games for our lands&castles. I got the "Bundle of Fun" bargain combo (all 8 games). Sweet deal!

K, enough of that. The ONLY way I'd get a bunny suit is if it had game-crushing stats. Then I'd stitch it.

Oh, don't forget, Ravenwood Radio, tonight!

Ravenwood Radio #38, recording LIVE on Wednesday, April 13 at 8:30pm Central at ravenwoodradio.com.

B-dee, uh-dee-uh-dee..That's all, Folks!

Be well.

Theorycraft: Game on! zap, zap, Zap Happy!

2011-04-13T00:53:00.002-04:00

You know, I've been spending more and more "non-spiral" time at KI Free games. You know, "Free W101 codes for playing mini games"? Yeah, them.

Free W101 codes for gaming

(I'm rather fond of Dueling Diego, myself).

However, (and isn't there *always* a 'however', with me?), I was thinking: we need to 'invigorate' the KI Free Games 'midway'. Every midway should have some sort of shooting gallery, in my probably-less-than-quiet opinion.
Since we're talking KI, W101,and kid-friendly, we can *easily* forget the firearms, 'cause "This....is...Spirallia!..uh, , I mean 'The Spiral'..." So, here's my idea:

Kind of an update of the old "Mystic Midway: Rest in Pieces" game, but W101-themed, of course. Let's call it "Zap Happy", for now. I'm no "Flash Coder", so I'll describe it as best I can. Please bear with me, here.

Horror-ble game, seriously

So, 'mechanically', I'd like to see something along the lines of the Playstation Home Midway:

Note the 'theme changes' each level- Replace with W101 worlds for 'theme'.

If you notice, it's not a 'crosshairs' style shooter, it's "left/right slide" only. Also, there are 'blocking' items, to prevent hits, (and add difficulty, as levels progress). Second, let's replace the firearm with a wand, because we *are* talking W101, after all. Wizards have more than enough "Oomph", no reloading required.

We'll replace targets with appropriate, cartoonish W101 enemies, like fire elves, gobblers, golems, ect.
But this is where he 'twist' comes in. In addition to left/right, and "Zap", there's a "1-7", where each number key is assigned to a School,( Fire, Ice, Life, Death, ect,ect,ect.)

Each target has a 'school', and (unlike in-game 'resists') you get 'bonus points' for hitting target with *matching* school. Sure, you could 'bonus' opposites (Life hits Death, ect), but I think it over-complicates the game.
Each (Timed) and progressive level adds additional 'schools' into the mix, and the player needs to reach a 'minimum threshold' score to advance, within the time limit.
For *additional* challenge, the targets can "fire back", and a "shield" (which changes schools with the same 1-7) *has* to match, to "block" enemy fire, or else player loses 'pips' (lives).

Play ends once all pips are expended, either by enemy "Hits", or not meeting minimum level score. (Retry level until "pass" to next level) or "no pips"(game over). You could even have pet-centric "bonus levels". Lotta room for brainstorming, methinks.

Really rough, and lazy 'Concept Art', for "Zap Happy":

I Dunno... "Abort, retry, or fail "?
Be well.

Housing wanted

2011-04-12T12:00:00.004-04:00

So many slots to fill!

Well, I've been up to thinking again, and I've been mulling over housing.
I never thought I'd get so into decorating, but I'm kinda addicted, it seems. I still don't now how I feel about craftable housing, though. Don't get me wrong, they're great houses, and I applaud those with determination enough to farm and craft all the necessary stuff.
Me? I'm a Lazymancer. It's simpler to throw crowns at housing, (now more important, with roaming mounts coming).
The Death House is Spooky, sure, and the DS Fortress imposing. The Playhouse is spacious, and the MFP is, well, "massive", duh. (Except for mine. My MFP has no interior, no gardening, and no furniture placement. In being 'incorrect', it is unique, thus I keep it that way.):

It's "not right",and I LIKE it that way.

"If its broke, DON'T fix it"

Sure, If I wanted, KI could "fix" it in no time, but then it would be like everyone else's MFP. I could fill the place, sure, but "meh". It's too bright and sunny, like some Unicorn Sanctuary. *shiver* I've been to a few "correct" MFP's, and they're very nice. But, as any collector knows, it's the imperfect that are highly prized.

So, how about Spooky, imposing, AND spacious? With Winterutsk coming, you know what I'd like?

A Ravenscar house:

Just think: A little of this...

A little of that.

Toss in a couple caves, a few tunnels..yeah. However, let's go a step further:

I'd add floating 'islands', too, and make it a space intentionally designed for rug-bugging. Make it secure enough to prevent any exploiting, (like remove gardening, or something). Make it a space where the only way to reach certain areas is by rug bridge. KingsIsle knows we (collectively) do it. Heckhound , with some houses they almost tease and challenge us to do it.

All I ask, is give us a dedicated playground, no "interior", and a *ridiculous* item count, and a place it doesn't feel like stacking crates is risky. I remember, long ago, KBB's first maze contest, and the "maze craze" hasn't slowed a bit.

I'd even be willing to craft it.

Be well!

Random ramblings

2011-04-10T16:32:00.013-04:00

Well, gee, with all the excitement of Mount Week past, there are, of course, plenty of things that "got lost in the noise". Here, I'll try to cover what I can remember to include, just for record's sake, I suppose.

What about "Sound The Horn", what was *that* all about? Well, Anyone who's followed HiaG for a while knows that I still maintain that W101, and the Spiral, are heading to a "Ragnarok", of sorts, "Sound the horn" is a less-than-subtle reference to the 9 Worlds Theory, so the "Horn" in question would be 'Gjallarhorn'. Not to say it's the gonna be the end of Wizard 101, but what if it is? What if KI's secret 2nd project is "Wizard 102"? No, it probably isn't, but these are the "things that make you go 'Hmmmmm'.."

Beckett's recently announced the winners of it's "Ultimate W101 Fan" contest, and here's the re-post, (from Becketts MOG ):

Wizard101 Ultimate Fan Contest Winner Announced

Wednesday, April 06 2011 08:48 Jason Winter

Tags Wizard101

We’d like to thank the hundreds of fans who submitted their letters, pictures, and videos for the Beckett Wizard101 Ultimate Fan Contest! While originally there was only one prize package for this contest, with so many great submissions Beckett and KingsIsle decided that we had to do more to recognize contest participants! In addition to a Grand Prize Winner, we selected two other outstanding submissions for recognition from the video and e-mail categories, each of whom will receive 60,000 Crowns and a Wizard101 poster signed by the KingsIsle staff. As if all that wasn’t enough, we selected a bunch of runners-up, who received 5,000 Crowns each!
Our Grand Prize Winner should be familiar to anyone who read our PAX East overview. Chase Glaser wow-ed us with his Celestia diorama (above) and costume at the show, and we had no choice but to give him the award. Really, we didn’t… otherwise, he might have zapped us with his staff!
With regard to video submissions, recognition goes to Mark Swiftgem and his one-minute video that shows off his Wizard101 fan art, comic, and the front cover of a fan-fiction book he’s working on. You can see a lot more of the creative and entertaining video entries by searching YouTube for “Wizard101 fan”.
Finally, for the e-mail submissions we had to recognize Jasmine “Jazz” Dayblossom, who says in her entry that she spends a lot of her time in the game helping new people and that she’s “printed out the spell cards and made ‘mini-decks’ for my brother and I. I’ve made a stuffed Moolinda Wu and attempted a Halston Balestrom, but failed. We have cardboards swords hanging on the walls too! Umbra Blade, Dragonclaw Blade, Lambent Blade, Frostwood Sword, etc! In one of my brother’s drawers, there’s a collection of coloring pages that we printed out and colored. I’d estimate that there’s at least 50!” Wow!
Codes will be sent out shortly, so check your e-mail to see if you’ve received a Crowns code! Congratulations to all, and thanks to everyone for your awesome entries!
(Oh, and we just had to show off a super piece of art submitted by one other runner-up winner, Fallon Starshade. Enjoy!)

*end Becketts article*
Is that not Uber Impressive? You bet it is!

Speaking of Becketts, (which every W101 wizard should be aware of), remember I mentioned I got my copy with Friendly's Article? Yeah, forgot to mention that J.Todd Coleman was listed, in the same issue,

as #1 in the "20 Most Influential People in MMO's in 2010" As "Ash" from Army of Darkness would say:

"Hail to the King, baby!"

And speaking of "Mr. J Todd", is it only me, or does anyone else visualize "Regenerate" as "The Hand of J.Todd Coleman, Himself blessing the recipient"? Okay, maybe it *is* just me, but these are the kind of bizarre connections my brain makes when I'm not focusing on something else.

So, I'll stop here, 'because I've leveled in Gardening, and only have BriskBreeze in my quest log. Been spending my time "Pet farming", and almost have all the ones I seek. OMG! Scarecrow! Squee! pleasehavespritely, pleasehavespritely, pleasehavespritely!

See, an unfocused mind is a terrible thing. Period.

Ooh, ooh! Last-minute edit: Speaking of Art, and an Army of Darkness;Cassandra Griffindreamer, the famed Spiral artist, has been doing a series of "School Chants", and finally presented her "Necromancer Chant" How many Necromancers can YOU pick out of this group? :

Ah, there's no School like Death School!

As always, an excellent depiction! View them all at WitchWarrior101.

Bits 'n bobs

2011-04-09T17:46:00.002-04:00

Still waiting for email addresses from :

Stephanie, Chris, Angela Graham, and Pokemonarecute!

horsegal4ever, you as well, please.

Simply 'comment me your email, (will not be published) All others have been sent. check inbox / spam folders for email from AutumnalDusk (at) Gmail-dot-com.

Onwards, then..

Thanks to ALL of you for your flood of positive emails! You're the best! Commenting will now resume on it's normal schedule. Max Sternum is thankful, as well.

So, there I was, viewing, and reviewing the Free Roaming Mounts teaser, and made some observations:

First:

Scarecrow! Squee! pleasehave"spritely", pleasehave"spritely", pleasehave"spritely"!

Second , I dunno how 'loved' Humongofrog is gonna be.(Did I mention ' Scarecrow! Squee!'?)

Third, and I have to warn you, "There are some things you see, that you can't un-see."with free-roaming mounts ,and wings,(especially Swiftshadow Wings) your house will have "Flying Pringles Moustaches"

I see a family resemblance.

There's more random things , but I'll give your eyes time heal.

Ka-pow! Did that just happen?

2011-04-08T15:17:00.003-04:00

Hot off the heels of Mount Week, KingsIsle has announced "Mount-A-Palooza" Yes! Up to 50% off !

I know where I'm shopping, today

Hurry! Crowns Sale ends Sunday!

But that's not even the best part! Ready? Really Ready? Really, Really Ready?

POW! Free roaming Mounts are coming!

But wait..there's more! Look what the video also hints at:

Scarecrow! Squee!

Well, they're not *confirmed*, but you do the math.

"Well, that *has* to be it, right?" Wrong!

Test Realm is open!

Um, I'd write more, but gotta go see! See you ITS

Be well!

The Devil's always in the details.

2011-04-08T14:23:00.000-04:00

First, the 'easy stuff, like contest solution, and "hints"

Hint #1 (*modified*) "If you're looking for my BLOG 'followers', you won't see them, but you will find something else" -Bottom of blog page, "14 is blank"
Hint #2 "The post where HiaG all began" -First HiaG post, 6/6/2009 "1 is blank"
Hint #3: "I love pop-culture references! Have you heard Merle Ambrose's bloopers? (May, 2010) "N=11"
Hint #4: "I have advice for young W101 bloggers (July, 2009) "12=O"
Hint #5 : " 'Quoth the raven' graphic to the right leads to a feather in conTEXT" Twitter Tweet "N=10"
Hint #6 : "Feathery flapping wings go "swish" (March, 2011) "6=S"
Hint #7 : "Have you met my daughter, Ashley Duskhunter?" Visit link. "13=D"
Hint #8 : I love the dueling circles in Housing! It's an Item I've wanted for a long time (June 2009) "4=H"
Hint # 9 : "When reading a thought-provoking post, like 4/4/11, you should also read the comments." Read 'comments', then find code in main post "U=3"
Hint#10 : "I'm curious. How exactly *does* a skeleton speak? Maybe I'll ask Mr. Sternum." Audio code "2=O"
Hint#11: Ironic that this is a Mount Contest. I used to *question* the very idea of mounts in W101. Glad my concerns were unfounded: Sometimes, I'm *happy* to be wrong: (picture, 4/5/11) Math date=5/7 /2009- July 5th, 2009 "8=H"
Hint#12: " In the digital world of blogging, you and I read in ASCII(TEXT), but the computer only sees BINARY '1's and '0's, ( Example: " Hi! " to you and me (decoded), is " 01001000 01101001 00100001 " to a computer. If only there were a way to translate binary like this: 01010100 00111101 00110111 Binary Translator: "T=7"
Hint#13: "Pop Quiz" -Get more right than wrong -"E=9"
Hint#14: "No tricks, no twists. Just a simple message for you" =click the link "R=5"

Well, the 'easy' part is done, now on to more difficult matters:

First off, Tons of you got the right answer. Gratz, my Ravens.

Many of you did not read the instruction. Reading is not 'optional'. One person actually 'rage posted' how 'unfair' I was,on the 'winners announcement', without bothering to notice they had won, (r u serious, really?).Yes, I know it's frustrating. Trust me, it's no picnic for me, either

A few actually tried cheating, (and you think we don't watch for things like that? We bloggers talk to each other, you know) Go ahead, risk your W101 account. You think redeemed codes can't be tracked? Sooner or later, you'll get sloppy, and we'll be happy to see you go. We want real players, not 'playahs'.

However, many, many of you were positive and supportive (thank you so much!) I had 'East Coasters' applauding the 3-hour delay to include 'West Coasters'! People who put Fair Play over "what's in it for me?". It is to those people, and the ones who were 'just happy to be playing' that I am thankful. Your positive attitudes far outweigh the selfish and negative ones.

Now, on to the hardest part, (for me)..How this contest failed. Or, more specifically, how *I* failed. Please be patient with me. It's still kind of raw for me, so please indulge me in a "parable" of sorts. It's easier to tell, this way...

April DawnHealer

A Story of Pride, Failure, Kindness, and Redemption

"Pull up a chair, and get comfortable.", Autumn said, "This may take a while."
Long, long ago, in a Galaxy far, far away there was a wandering soul. We'll call her, uh, 'April Dawnhealer', yeah, that sounds good..

April was an explorer of many separate Universes. Always looking for a place to call 'Home'. One day, she stumbled into the 'quaint' little Universe of Spirallia. It was a peculiar little place, but it had warm, sociable people. It had many different Tents, like MarrowBone, Lizzard'sPyre, Bearenheim, and more. All lovingly ruled by The Royal Family, located on King's Penninsula, led by King J.Topp CoolMan. It was a place where Old Souls and Pixies all danced vibrantly together, in common purpose. Why, just to walk around was a Song of the Feet!

April looked all around , and said "This place is Amazing", and quickly worked towards Citizenship in Spirallia. The Royal Family was constantly producing, from their workshops 'Official Con Tents' for the population. Always something new to be experienced. All was well in Spirallia, and with April.
Soon, April discovered that the Royal Builders weren't the only ones building Tents. Thomas KittySpittle was a recognized builder of Private Tents, and the small community of Spirallia looked fondly on him. April was immediately impressed, and was inspired to build Tents of her own, watching Master Builder KittySpittle, and crafting her own, clumsy Tents. Master Builder KittySpittle took notice of April, and soon, a friendship was formed. With time and practice, April's Tents improved.

Days turned to weeks, then months. April toiled away, rapidly absorbing 'Official Con Tents', all the while crafting her own. Along the way, she had made many friends, like Kevin CombatSweat, Fallon ShadyKnife, Cassandra GrapesareDreamy (the artist), and many, many others, far too many to list. She had been granted "The Royal Nod" by King's Peninsula, and answered directly to Princess StoneRose, a wise member of the Royal Family, whose job was to oversee, assist, and guide Personal Tent builders of The Nod. April was among amazing people, and some citizens looked upon her the same way she looked upon Master Builder KittySpittle. It was a Golden time.

Things had never been better but April DawnHealer was growing discontent, and it reflected in her Personal Tents. She consumed 'Official Con Tents' faster than The Royal Workshops could create them. She was becoming 'jaded', and her most frequent colors for Tents were "Sarcasm", and "Critique".

"This is not good" April said. "I will not allow my Tents to go so sour!" So, she packed away her tools, and tore down her Workshop. The citizens were taken aback and confused, so April put her workshop up, left word with Thomas KittySpittle, and left Spirallia.

Months went by, and April was once again a Wandering Soul across the Multiverses. This time, however, things were different. Every Universe she visited was not inspiring. Either "not-yet-ready", or "time worn, and trampled.". Some were 'pretty', but had no substance. Some places were 'nice', but were filled with hostile citizens. Some had Royal Families that merely didn't care. Everyplace she went, it was not Spirallia. She had even tried building new Tent Workshops, only to be used by evil 'Princes'. The more she explored the places that weren't Spirallia, the more she realized what she had foolishly left behind.

It was time to go Home. It was time to retutn to Spirallia.

About that same time Spirallia's workshops were hinting at the Next Great Tent- Starlestia.
"I shall test the waters", April exclaimed, speaking of both Starlestia, and the citizens of Spirallia. She had left under a petulant stormcloud, and she had turned her back on Spirallia, and may find herself (deservedly) shunned. She had no right to expect anything more.

Much to her surprise, even the idea of April DawnHealer returning to Spirallia was met with great celebration, by those same dear-hearted citizens. Starlestia was coming, and so was April! Yes, April was truly going home! There were new Personal Tent builders everywhere. April was quite bemused and impressed at one in particular: Dutius Maximus, a short orange-haired Dwarf with bushy eyebrows, who was Big in his devotion to keeping the Pixies safe. There was so much to do!

Then tragedy struck.

An errant Pixie had (quite on accident) destroyed April's Hammer, "Toshiba-san". That same hammer that April' workshop depended on. Tohiba-san was her transport across he Multiverses, and now she was cut off from all of them, including Spirallia. She had been so close, but had lost everything to a single glass of (Diet) Choke. April was devastated. There was no way to fix Toshiba-san. April slowly slid into morose detachment.
She turned to her toolbox, and her only outlet was her Sonny Workstation. It, at least, allowed her limited travel in the Sonny Universe, and had a 'Home' of it's own. It wasn't Spirallia, but it wasn't isolation, either.
Days bled together, as they often do. They merged like molasses globs into weeks, and again, months. All the while, Tohiba-san sat neglected, where April would not even look at it. Deep in denial, she maintained her Multiverse 'fix' on a much smaller scale.

Eventually, the mindless distraction of the Sonny Workstation wore off. It's 'Home' no more than an advertiser's Theme Park. Shaking her head, as though to clear a clouded, April picked up Toshiba-san for the first time in a long time. Well, it's still a hammer, if only a little worse for wear. The handle could never be fixed, but April discovered an 'emergency handle', which made Toshiba-san 'functional' again, but extremely ungainly.

Cautiously, April navigated Toshiba-san past the Multiverses she had explored, then abandoned. It was not long at all before he had returned to her Spirallia Workshop, and to Spirallia, itself. So much had changed! Starlestia had long been released, and Spirallia had grown from a 'quaint' little Universe into a thriving metropolis. So many citizens! April set to work, catching up with 'Official Con Tents', and Private Tents alike.

She re-designed her workshop, and quietly set to work, knowing her Tents were weak, and paltry, in comparison to her peers. Kevin CombatSweat was a famed DNA expert. Fallon ShadyKnife had an impressive Colosseum for Citizens, Dutius Maximus was an established "moving pictures" Dwarf (as ever, keeping the Pixies safe). Even Thomas KittySpittle was still patiently creating Tents, but with an entire *Family* of KittySpittles. What did April have? Nothing, by comparison. She had to "earn herself, anew".
Creating Tents was much harder, now. Most of her Tents were 'a season behind' the Tents of others.

Most surprising, however, was that April still had "The Royal Nod". Positively incomprehensible. Many Royal Families, in other Universes , would have had April excommunicated, and banished for all time. But this was Spirallia, ruled by King's Peninsula. April was given a 2nd chance, by the Royal Family's Grace. April was determined that that Grace would not go unappreciated. Princess StoneRose had just announced a Royal Tent Giveaway, for Spirallia's citizens, to be held through Personal Tent Builders of Then Nod. Such was the generosity of King's Peninsula.

This was April's chance! "I will build the finest Personal Tent ever seen!" April promised herself, and set to work straight away. In her haste, she failed to notice a fatal flaw in the foundation of her Tent. Every night she toiled, and crafted to impress the Citizens the next day. As the days wore on, the Tent grew, and the fatal crack in the foundation did, as well, now obscured by the flurry of activity.
Many new citizens , (well, new to April, at least) , visited April's Workshop. They marveled at her Tents.
It was just like the Golden Times, but much, much busier, especially with an emergency-handled Toshiba-san.

Then, almost as the Tent was built, 14 stories high, a passing citizen noticed the crack in the foundation, and pointed it out, much to April's dismay.
"No!", April exclaimed, "No,no,no,no,no! I'm too close! I'm April DawnHealer, a Spirallia Builder of The Nod! I can't let this petty crack ruin my chance!" So, April applied a 'patch', to seal the crack. Unfortunately, the crack had existed so long, and had been ingrained so deep, that the 'patch' led to more cracks. Citizens were becoming upset, that April's Tent wasn't stable, and seemed to be swaying. April knew the flaw was fatal, and the damage done. No matter the outcome, she had botched her chance.

April was frantic! She surveyed her options, and ran to Princess StoneRose, to give her advanced warning.
"Your Highness" April explained, "I've failed you, I've failed King's Peninsula, and I've failed the Citizens! I need to make it right! My Tent will crash, and the Citizens will revile me! I have to fix it!"
Before Princess StoneRose could reply, April went seeking to exchange gold for "Tiaras" (Spirallia's currency). "Yes, yes..I can do *this*.." April was frenzied with stress, her temples poundng. "I don't care if it costs many thousands of Tiaras, I'll just buy Royal Tents..and Present them to citizens that I've wronged, yes! I can fix this! It has to be right!". The roar of upset citizens was getting louder, as more joined in. The Tent was going to Fall, and cleanup was going to be messy. Her hopes evaporated, April could only minimze the damage now.April stared at the Tent, waiting for it to Collapse. Maybe if she was really lucky, it would fall on her...

"April" came a voice from behind. Princess StoneRose was there, and April couldn't help ut feel a burning shame, as her eyes misted.
"I can fix this, Princess" April stammered, "I just need to buy some Tiaras, then..."
"April", Princess StoneRose "Take these. Use them to fix your Tent." She tossed a bag to April.
Looking in the bag, it was more Royal Tents, so April could appease the wronged, the frustrated, and the angry. "I...I can't!", stammered April, reeling from this Colossal Rescue by Princess StoneRose, "It's not fair to the ohers.."
"April", the Princess replied, "This are Our Tents, this is what we do. You will not spend Tiaras on this situation.". It was only an explanation, but April accepted it as Law. Even April wasn't so dumb that she was going to argue with a Spirallian Princess. StoneRose departed, leaving April "holding the bag", (so completely contrary to the usual use of the phrase).

April sunk to the floor, and wept. If ever someone could actually be "Killed with kindness", then April DawnHealer had just been "drawn, and quartered" by Princess StoneRose. April's head pounded, her neck muscles were like iron cables, and all the energy was streaming out of her.All her efforts, wasted. She was undone.
Then, like a scene from "The Grouch who Swiped CrispMasts", April saw clearly. It wasn't about Big, shiny Personal Tents, it never was. It was about a caring community, fun and safe for all. Princess StoneRose and King's Peninsula led by example, not by decree. They encourage it among all it's citizens, builder and non-builder alike. There is no "Me" in "Community". Pride can blind, and April was seeing now, with the scales removed from her eyes.

Still, there was work to be done.

The time of April's final unveiling of the last addition of her crippled Tent. Fast and furious swept in the ciizens, and the Tent held. It swayed, it buckled, but it held.
"Citizens, please be patient with me, I have an announcement, within the hour"
That next hour,April presented The Gift, before the citizens.
"I have failed you, but King's Peninsula has not. If you will remember me for my prideful shortcomings, then remember also the Kindness that King's Peninsula has shown all of us. I, myself, deserve no credit, but I can tell you who does. I'm am spent, and will tell the tale, tommorow."

And did so, the very next day:

April gatherd her friends in her workshop:
"Pull up a chair, and get comfortable.", April said, "This may take a while."
Long, long ago, in a Galaxy far, far away there was a wandering soul. We'll call her, uh, 'Autumn DuskHunter', yeah, that sounds good..

-Fin-

Pride comes before the Fall.

So, there you have it. It's messy, it's harsh, it is (like me) a "work in progress". Saying either "Sorry" to you all, or "Thank you" to KingsIsle seems so terribly weak, and indequate.

More soon.

Be well.

Homework in a Graveyard.

Abaracadabara

Booom-checka-lekka! House winners.

Here comes the BOOM!

Click, click, BOOM!

Starting August 12th through August 23rd, save up to 50% OFF Housing Items in the Crown Shop!

Integrity in gaming, and in life.

This is the dawning...

The sound of sugar

The Ravenwood Chainsaw Massacre

"Lizzard Property.

Little things, like attribution, and linkbacks, and an understanding of Fair Use and Derivitave works can go a LONG way to minimize issues. Not only with liscensed media, but with our fellow bloggers, as well.

This is far too deep a subject for a single post to do proper justice. Just use it as a 'thinking point', for consideration. I thank KingsIsle for the opportunity to share the 'W101 Love', and I thank YOU for reading.

Be Well.

Putting the HOME in Homework

20 Million Reasons to be 0ne

We are 0ne - Resistance is futile

Delay of Game

Fighting for peace? How confusing.

Do not resist, just stop fighting

The Word is Inevitable

Contest Announcement !

SYSTEM MESSAGE

a capital idea. -SOLUTION

Technical "difficulties"

Post Ball Observations: "Fame"

fame

It's gonna be crazy, crazy BUSY!

This side up. Fragile. Do not disturb.

> Are you even listening?

Many Momentous Milestones

Happy, and Sad

*sigh*

Support Education- Vote it, and they will build.

Just....WOW

Pet-a-palooza!

Use your spells wisely

Grandma is happy, and so am I

Insert clever title here

This is only a test...

Happy, 'versary, DoaW!

Sultan's Palace Megacard is Official, and Fishy Time!

My $0.02: Being "KI Official"

Al, tell the people who's "full of WIN"...

Please stand by

Cash, Crowns and Cards.

Too tired to be clever.

My $0.02 : Plagiarism

For John Lifeglen

OMG! OMG! OMG! I stumbled across the answer!

Shot in the Dark after the 'mystery composer'

Mad Science in Theorycrafting

Updates

Putting the "test" in Test Realm

Test Realm Observations, Day One

Test Realm ONLINE! *SO* much is coming MUST SEE!

Theorycrafting: A question of floating towers

Happy Spring Renewal

Seeing things

Judgement Day

Drop, already!

Things to look forward to

Theorycrafting: Skills combo!

Villian seeking Hero for long-term adversarial relationship

A new movie hits The Spir@l

Artful musings.

Wizard life, as I know it

PvP and me.

In a fowl mood

Wabbit Season.

Theorycraft: Game on! zap, zap, Zap Happy!

Housing wanted

Random ramblings

Wizard101 Ultimate Fan Contest Winner Announced

Bits 'n bobs

Ka-pow! Did that just happen?

The Devil's always in the details.

Starting August 12th through August 23rd,
save up to 50% OFF Housing Items in the Crown Shop!

sigh

Test Realm ONLINE! SO much is coming MUST SEE!