Fishwrap #51, "Mystics: Behind the Sparkle," is now available.
IN THIS ISSUE
* Interviews with Aravir, Callia, and Rincewind
* Himitsu's Report on Clubs
Read below for the full text.
FISHWRAP MAGAZINE
Issue #51: "Mystics: Behind the Sparkle"
[October 16, 2002]
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IN THIS ISSUE
* Interviews with Aravir, Callia, and Rincewind
* Himitsu's Report on Clubs
#####
SPONSORS
This issue of Fishwrap Magazine is brought to you by the following
sponsors:
* Clan Pogue Mahone
http://www.poguemahone.org/
* Order of Akara
http://www.orderofakara.com/
* The Order of the Golden Maha
http://www.guildcraftfurniture.com/ogm/
* Clan of the Purple Tor
* Clan Rising Claw
http://www.risingclaw.com
#####
THOOMCARE MEDIA NETWORK HEADLINE NEWS
"TMN: Thoom News You Can Use"
Vermine Problems
Drake in Northwest Forest
Counting Puddleby
Hunting with Hor
Scarmis Attack
A Valuable Valley Panther
Stuck in the Library?
Newbielympics Approaching
Pods and Myrms
Scarmis Invasion
Kirth Gets Caduceus
Hunting in North
Kismia's Island Changes
Red Quill Scrolls Return
Chaos and Fairgrounds
Sword of Souls Changes
Norm Needs Rock Advice
Beyond Wisher's Gate
Eyes of Puddleby Moves
for more information on the above stories, see TMN at:
http://www.thoomcare.com/
#####
THOOM WITH A VIEW
BY PARAMEDIC THE THOOM, EDITOR
The controversy surrounding Manticore and Neige as well as the recent
public announcement by the Mystic Council regarding a trade of orga
stones have turned Puddleby's attention toward the mystic community in
unprecedented ways. This issue of Fishwrap contains interviews with
two mystics (Callia and Rincewind) and one former mystic (Aravir). All
three offer significant insight into the issues of the day.
- Para
#####
INTERVIEW WITH ARAVIR
BY PARAMEDIC
Paramedic says, "Fishwrap is pleased to present an interview with
Aravir"
Paramedic says, "There are 5 questions to a Fishwrap interview, along
with some followups."
(Aravir nods)
Paramedic says, "Let's start with the question on many people's
minds."
Paramedic asks, "#1) Why did you decide to leave the path of being a
mystic?"
Aravir says, "Because of the Mystic Council's action in the Neige
matter."
Aravir says, "By refusing to make any statement, they tacitly approved
of what he did"
Paramedic asks, "You were unhappy with their decision there?"
Aravir says, "Indeed, very unhappy."
Aravir says, "The Mystic Council sets the standards of morality for
the entire Guild"
Aravir says, "Both by what they do... and what they choose not to do."
Paramedic asks, "What bothered you about what Neige did?"
Aravir says, "His action harmed many exiles who were participating in
the raid..."
Aravir says, "it gave aid and comfort to our enemies, the Orga..."
Aravir says, "and it harmed the standing of the Mystic Guild in the
community."
Paramedic asks, "Was this a difficult decision for you?"
Aravir says, "Not difficult, but unfortunate."
Aravir says, "I really liked being a mystic, and didn't want to give
it up."
Aravir says, "However, once it was clear the Council approved of what
happened, there really was no choice for me."
Aravir says, "The Council set a moral standard for the Guild that..."
Aravir says, "I simply could not lower myself to be associated with."
Paramedic asks, "Do you think the Mystic Council is likely to change?"
Aravir says, "No."
Paramedic says, "You seem pretty definite."
Aravir says, "Alas, yes."
Aravir says, "I can conceive of situations that might change things,
but they're all very unlikely."
Paramedic asks, "How do you feel about other mystics leaving the
guild?"
Aravir says, "It's a sad thing."
(Paramedic nods)
Aravir says, "I've been surprised by it, a bit."
Paramedic says, "Let's move on to question #2, about what caused this
whole mess...."
(Aravir nods)
Paramedic asks, "#2) What do you think of Manticore?"
Aravir says, "I finally met him in town, just a few days ago"
Paramedic asks, "how did that go?"
Aravir says, "He seemed nice enough. I saw no sign that he was insane,
or unstable, or dangerous..."
Aravir says, "as various other mystics have claimed."
Aravir says, "Of course, I only talked to him for a short time."
Paramedic asks, "Do you think he deserves to be a mystic?"
Aravir says, "That's not really up to me. The Full Mystics who
promoted him did, though."
Paramedic says, "Interesting."
Paramedic asks, "Why do you think the council does not like Manticore
now?"
Aravir says, "I'm not going to second guess who deserves to be a
mystic and who doesn't."
Aravir says, "Every time I've asked a Full Mystic about it..."
Aravir says, "they say, `He's insane,' and then..."
Aravir says, "start talking about all sorts of crazy things that make
no sense to me."
Aravir asks, "Maybe they're all projecting their own mental problems
on him?"
Aravir says, "Although I did hear a rumour..."
Aravir says, "from a few different sources..."
Aravir says, "that Manticore had been trying to get the stone to trade
to the Brions."
(Paramedic listens)
Aravir says, "If true, that would have gotten in the way of the
Council's deal."
Paramedic says, "That leads to question #3 actually."
(Aravir nods)
Paramedic asks, "#3) what do you think of the Council's recent
announcement about trying to make a deal with the 'Brions?"
Aravir says, "I'm opposed to it. To this specific deal, that is."
Aravir says, "I'm not necessarily opposed to any deal."
Aravir says, "However, I don't believe that either the 'Brions or the
Council can be trusted..."
(Paramedic listens)
Aravir says, "or will act in the interests of all exiles."
Paramedic says, "Hmmm"
Aravir says, "I'm worried about what's in the deal that the Council
isn't telling us."
Paramedic asks, "What do you say to those who say that we need some
sort of action with the Brions? That Puddleby is falling stagnant?"
Aravir says, "Well, I don't believe that we _need_ some sort of
action, but..."
Aravir says, "I will point out that telling them "no thanks" is also
an action."
Aravir says, "As is negotiating a new deal with all of Puddleby
represented."
Paramedic asks, "So you think Puddleby should not trust the Mystic
Council's motives?"
Aravir says, "Not at present. They haven't given us reason to trust
them... but they have given us ample reason to distrust them."
Paramedic asks, "And you think Manticore ended up in the middle of
this mess?"
Aravir says, "If the rumour about his motives for the raid are true,
then it seems likely. But I haven't been able to confirm the rumour
yet."
Aravir says, "I only mention it because I've heard it from three
independent sources."
Paramedic asks, "What do you think the future holds for Manticore? Is
he going to be stuck in limbo?"
Aravir says, "I hope not. I think he could make a valuable addition to
Puddleby."
Aravir says, "There has been talk of a second Mystic Council..."
Aravir says, "which would almost require his participation to go
anywhere."
Paramedic says, "Ah, the schism theory"
(Aravir nods)
Paramedic asks, "Do you think that could happen? A split in the
council?"
Aravir says, "It's more likely than the existing Council reforming..."
Aravir says, "but still not likely."
Paramedic says, "Interesting"
Aravir says, "I don't know of three Full Mystics who would be willing
to do it."
Paramedic asks, "So is mystic life in Puddleby stuck in a rut?"
Aravir says, "Basically, yes. It's in a rut because the Council wants
it that way."
Aravir says, "It is a Guild, after all--and what we're seeing is what
happens when a Guild operates with no external restraints."
Paramedic asks, "#4) Do you think the Orgas or the Darshak are
involved with the 'Brions in some way?"
Aravir says, "Well, I've heard that one or more of the 'Brions have
used Darshak in the past..."
Aravir says, "but unfortunately the sources I need to research are
presently unavailable."
Aravir says, "I don't think there's any involvement with the Orga,
though."
Paramedic asks, "How is your research going these days?"
Aravir says, "A bit slow lately. I've been preoccupied with rat
hunting."
(Paramedic nods)
Aravir says, "I think it will be picking up a bit soon, though."
Paramedic asks, "Do you think becoming a fighter will hurt your
research?"
Aravir says, "No, actually if anything it will help it."
Paramedic asks, "How so?"
Aravir says, "I'll be able to reach more sites without an escort."
Paramedic says, "Ah, that makes sense."
Paramedic says, "That leads us to question 5"
Paramedic asks, "#5) How do you like being a fighter?"
Aravir says, "Actually, it's not much different from when I was a
mystic. I'm weaker now, and I spend more time hunting to regain my
lost knowledge, but..."
Aravir says, "overall the biggest difference is that I can't make
sparklies in town any more."
Paramedic says, "Heh"
Aravir says, "Even as an apprentice, I spent lots of time solo
hunting."
Aravir is a Sylvan, is male, is a Fighter, and is wearing the symbol
of Bane of the Black Heart.
He is holding a rapier and a wooden shield, and he is wearing a
sunstone, a wooden parrot, what looks like a fedora, a shirt, a pair
of pants and a pair of shoes.
Aravir has a phial of good karma.
Paramedic asks, "How long have you been in Bane of the Black Heart?"
Aravir ponders, "Hmm"
(Aravir trains his weak memory)
Aravir says, "I've been involved, more or less, since before it was
founded, but I didn't join until..."
Aravir says, "the 29th of Winter, last year."
Paramedic asks, "How did clan members feel about your change from
mystic to fighter?"
Aravir says, "They've been very supportive."
Paramedic says, "That's great"
Paramedic asks, "So in general you feel good about the decision to
become a fighter?"
Aravir says, "Well, I wouldn't say I feel "good," because of the
circumstances that led to it, but..."
Aravir says, "I don't regret it at all."
(Paramedic nods)
Paramedic says, "Let me remind our readers here to check out your
scroll, which is an excellent resource."
Aravir exclaims, "Thank you!"
Paramedic says, "I'm glad to see you continue to work on it."
(Aravir smiles)
Paramedic says, "We've now reached the end of the interview...."
Paramedic says, "but in keeping with Fishwrap tradition, you may now
ask the Thoom ONE (1) question."
Paramedic says, "That's 1 (ONE) question."
Aravir says, "Hmm"
Aravir asks, "What's your favorite brand of fish oil?"
Paramedic says, "That's a good question."
Paramedic says, "I like the cod variety best...."
(Aravir nods)
Paramedic says, "but there's been some flounder oil in lately, from a
small oil maker outside of town that is quite delicious."
(Aravir makes a note)
Paramedic says, "In general, fish oil makes life more tolerable here
in Puddleby"
Paramedic says, "It's too bad non-Thooms do not appreciate it fully."
Aravir says, "Well, perhaps it's an acquired taste."
#####
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Serra Lorne is a Dwarf, is female, is an exile, and is wearing the
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She is holding a dagger and a sewing kit, and she is wearing a
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#####
INTERVIEW WITH CALLIA
BY PARAMEDIC
Para: #1) Many exiles were surprised to see the usually quiet Mystic
Council make a public announcement about gathering orga stones to
trade with the 'Brion brothers. Do you think this signifies a change
in policy for the Mystic Council? Will there be other such
announcements?
Callia: The Council made a public announcement for several reasons (to
my understanding). First of all, the deal in question was one which
had been on the table for over 8 years. Not only that, but many
healers and fighters have been strongly in favor of it. Gathering the
Strange Stones requires the assistance of many exiles. It's my
understanding that the Council wished to publicize the deal, because
of the previously expressed desires of interested healers and
fighters, and to make known the need for the mystics undertaking the
task to be supported.
As for the policies of the Council and what the future may hold: I
cannot speak for the Council, I do not have the authority or the
right. I speak neither as a representative nor as a member. I can
relay what I expect, but you, and your readers must understand that is
only my own private opinion as a mystic.
The Council specifically is a body whose role is to guide and teach.
It is a scholarly body, not a governmental one. Many exiles have
recently demanded actions and accountability for things the Council
has no power over. The policies of the Council of the Mystic Guild
remain unchanged (again, to my understanding). Public announcements
are likely to be rare events. That does not mean there will be none,
but I think it is likely that the exiles who have demanded things from
the Council of late will continue to be disappointed by the slow pace
of Council deliberation, and the general policy of letting individuals
choose their own paths. The Council does not rule, it only advises.
Para: #2) What do you think of the 'Brion brothers, and should
Puddleby trade with them? Are the 'brions a threat to Puddleby and are
these Orga Stones worth all this trouble?
Callia: Well, that's several questions, I shall address them
separately.
The 'Brion brothers, are...interesting. Some time ago, I wrote an
analysis of Tenebrion. While it is dated now, some of it still remains
true, and is worth reading. (In my own opinion, of course.) To
summarize briefly: The 'Brions are arrogant. Their sense of
entitlement is vast. They respect little that cannot hurt them. Their
power is great; I doubt we have seen the fullest extent of it at this
time. However, they are not without limitations as well. I believe
that just as they have concealed at least some of their power, so too
do they conceal some of their limitations. One example of their
limitations: I believe that at least some of their power may be tied
to physical artifacts, and thus, be largely immobile.
They have questionable morals. Tenebrion, for example, is a
Necromancer. They clearly view exploitation as a useful tool in order
to reach their own goals. They mislead exiles, they lie, they attempt
to play us off against one another to their own advantage. They are
capricious, fickle, in an older parlance they might be described as
"tricksie sprites." I think that they want something from us, and that
they have decided that using exiles as tools is the best, most
efficient way of getting what they want.
However, they also represent a source of knowledge which we do not
understand, and do not know the extent of. They appear to have
knowledge which relates to things which concern us greatly, such as
Purgatory. For all that, I mistrust them greatly. I also think it
would be unwise to ignore them or turn our backs on them. The
situation would seem to indicate that our future is threatened, and it
would further seem to indicate that they have knowledge we require to
ensure our future safety. One of the first lessons taught in the Guild
is that not all is as it seems, so...I mistrust appearances, and I
watch the 'Brions closely, and I talk with them when the opportunity
arises.
Should we deal with them? Hard to say. There is much going on which we
do not understand. It is possible that we are being manipulated. It is
possible that we are not. They hold knowledge which we do not, which
may affect our safety. In my attempts to research the subject, *I*
have found no other sources for this knowledge. So...in conclusion, I
would say yes, we should interact with them. We need to understand
them better, to determine if they are a threat, an ally, or neither.
We will not learn this by avoiding them.
Should we complete the deal the Council has made regarding the Orga
Stones? Again, hard to say. In theory, the deal will normalize
relations with the 'Brions, possibly allowing future, freer exchanges
of knowledge. Allowing the deal to fall through may sour relations
with them, but for how long? Who can say? Can the deal be
renegotiated, as some exiles have called for? No, the deal is on the
table, we take it, or reject it, and face the consequences. I
personally would have chosen to reject the deal; I would have
preferred to gauge the extent of the force that they are prepared to
array against us. I suspect that this would be an uncomfortably large
amount of force. However, the Council chose to deal and I have decided
that supporting the Council is important, even if I do not agree with
their decision.
The 'Brions are not comfortable to deal with. But unlike some exiles,
I do not think ignoring them is a reasonable alternative. At present,
they are waiting, but deal or not, they will not wait forever. Which
does Puddleby prefer? War now? Or a longer period where we may study
them and learn who they are and what they think?
As for the Stones themselves: The technical Guild term for them is
Strange Stones. Many exiles (and indeed, many mystics) refer to them
as "Orga Stones" but I tend to think that this is both misleading, and
incorrect. The island of Puddleby is covered in ancient ruins. Ruins
which, I think, may predate the Orga occupation of Puddleby. I think
the Stones are an artifact of whatever this civilization was, and that
they are not of Orga origin. The Stones represent great power. They
also represent great cost. Are they worth the trouble? Some exiles
feel that if we do not try to obtain them, then the Orga get them, and
keeping them out of the hands of the Orga is reason enough alone to
try to obtain them. I think that in the hands of a trained specialist,
they represent a powerful tool which can be used to aid exiles and
Puddleby.
Para: #3) Are these good times to be a mystic? Bad times? How do you
see the role of mystics in Puddleby society today? What do you see in
the future for mystics?
Callia: Hmm, my response to this question is somewhat mixed. Looking
at things objectively, I would say that this is a time much like any
other, students and members of the Guild go about their daily
business, and their lives, much as they always have. So, objectively,
it is no better or worse to be a mystic now than at any other time.
Subjectively? I find myself to be frequently disappointed by much of
what I read and hear, and by some of the reactions I get from various
exiles. Very few people seem to have a good understanding of what it
means to be a mystic. Expectations are being placed upon us which are
unreasonable, and frankly, a little foolish. Attributions which I
personally find to be vague and mean-spirited are directed at us,
ascribing to us an (apparently) inherent malice and selfishness. When
I probe at these opinions, I find them to be poorly grounded and
vague, and yet their owners hold to them with considerable tenacity,
in spite of attempts on my part to explore the basis for their
opinions. The assumptions of malicious pettiness are the most
disappointing. The good opinions of healers and fighters for specific
students are a compliment rather than a cause for detraction, or
grudges.
So, I would say that I personally, am disappointed at the present
time. I've worked very hard to try to make Puddleby a better, happier,
safer place, and to serve the Guild to the best of my abilities. And
currently, I feel my contributions are largely being ignored or
misunderstood.
But such is life, "Patience with others..." as my favorite teacher
liked to say.
What can mystics offer to Puddleby? Much the same as they have always
offered. Some exiles would say that amounts to nothing. Interestingly,
some of these same exiles can also be heard to complain that mystics
are never around when you need them; a pity that they can't see the
connection. Our "job" is to learn and to know. That is what we do
best. We do not order or direct as a general rule, rather we observe
and advise. Most of the skills which we can bring to bear are related
to perception. Some exiles find these skills useful, many do not. To a
large extent, the degree to which we are useful is irrelevant. Being
"useful" is not what we do. Knowing is what we do. Although sometimes
that can be seen as useful.
That having been said, if Puddleby does not find us to be useful, then
they will not support our Guild, and there will be less of us. Most
notably, there will be less students. I also find it paradoxical that
some exiles would complain about the lack of mystics, and then in the
same breath refuse to support the students of the Guild by way of
protest. If the students are not supported, then the chance that they
will be able to complete their studies is greatly diminished. Simple
cause and effect to my mind.
Some of the above is, of course, related to the assessments of the
Guild's students by healers and fighters. That is to say, many healers
and fighters judge the students they see and know, and judge what they
see of the Guild and decide that their personal friends qualify for
the highest honors the Guild (currently) has to offer. Honors which
are the reserved prerogative of the Council, and the Council alone to
grant. Most residents of Puddleby have little or no idea what it means
to be a mystic (as I said above). Mystics have many cares and
responsibilities, and most of what we do, is not visible to the
general public. Nor is it likely to become so. We are frequently
maligned for our rigorous maintenance of secrecy. But that is as it
must be. We explain as much as we may, safely, we tell as much as we
can. What we keep hidden, we do to preserve the structure and
integrity of our Guild. This is important to us, indeed, it is
critical. So, indeed, there are many students, and their friends may
feel that they are ready to advance, but their friends are not aware
of the criteria by which such things are judged, nor are they likely
to become so. The specifics of the criteria in question are one of the
secrets we keep.
What do I see in the future for mystics? Hmm...I see a quieter time, a
time when we will be less visible, less obvious. If we do not please,
then we will not be as forthcoming. Though no doubt, this too will
meet with disapproval from the exiles who feel they have reason to
dislike us.
Para: #4) What is your specialty? Could you tell us a little about how
you see your role in Puddleby?
Callia: What do I do? My primary training is as a locator. As such, I
am a skilled expert at finding lost exiles. Sometimes this is useful,
sometimes not. When I was a Journeying Mystic, this was my primary
occupation. Now, I do it less. Locating is a job most often filled by
Journeying Mystics. Some mystics do it as well too, of course, but
mystics have other tasks which occupy their time. Location is probably
the most commonly understood and well-known skill by the rest of
Puddleby. Additionally, I have also trained as an Ethereal expert. I
study the Ethereal plane, I study how Ether interacts with our world,
and why. Most of that would probably be rather boring to most exiles.
Lastly, I have responsibilities within the Guild. As a mystic, I have
a responsibility to see that the students learn the principles of the
Guild, and learn how to use the tools provided to them, and more
importantly, to learn the whys of using those tools. My job is to
watch, to learn, to teach, and to advise.
Para: #5) When you are not in town, what do you like to do? Do you
have favorite hunting grounds? What tools do you use?
Callia: Hmm...I do not "hunt" per se, I find the occupation to be
dull, and dangerous, with few opportunities to learn. When I do travel
outside of Puddleby, it is most likely to be on an expedition to
learn, and to explore. These are the things which most interest me. Of
late, I have spent much of my time focused on the Ether, and the
Ethereal Plane, I go there fairly frequently, to observe. It's rather
dangerous, but I generally go with a group which is familiar with the
problems, and fairly skilled at dealing with them. The dangers do make
it difficult to explore properly, however. There is much which isn't
understood about the Ethereal plane.
As for what I use on such expeditions: I carry a dagger, which I use
for personal defense, should the need arise, however, I seldom make an
effort to attack. I am easily one of the most physically frail members
of the group I work with. It is more important for me to stay out of
the way of the fighting, and to remain healthy, than it is for me to
contribute to it directly. I also find a use for both the Rod of Akea,
and the Orb of Caesindre, though sadly, my skill with both of these
tools is less than the situation often demands. However, one cannot
study everything.
Para: #6) Who is more of a threat to Puddleby and why: Darshak, Orga
or Undine? Do you think any of these work together?
Callia: Hum, a difficult question. Hard to choose which of those three
is a greater threat. I think to start I will say that as things stand
presently, we are at a relative stalemate with all three. If things
remain the same, we will be all right. If things change, then any one
of those three groups might cause us problems. The Darshak and the
Orga represent forces which I see as having volition, and which bear
us malice. The Darshak would seem to bear us malice specifically, and
on purpose, whereas the Orga would seem only to bear malice to every
other living thing. The third group, the Undine, I view as more of a
natural force, perhaps rather like the weather. Sometimes there are
storms, sometimes it is calm.
Of the three, the group most likely to ally itself with the others
would be the Darshak. The Darshak are well known to use Undine, and I
believe that some of their rites may actually create Undine as a
by-product, or even summon some of the more powerful ones
specifically. The Orga most likely would not work with another group
on purpose, but according to the texts of Falinea, when they fought
against the Winged Centaurs, the Orga used a strange bluish stone,
that destroyed any living thing it touched. This calls to my mind the
Soulglasses from the Ripture War. Further research into the journals
of Thoom Hulapop would indicate that the Darshak Theocracy used some
form of tainted moonstone. I tend to suspect a connection there. The
Stones used by the Orga may well have been the same as the Stones of
the Darshak, and may have been provided by them. Further, those stones
may well be Soulglasses. This would imply that the Darshak might be
the source of the Soulglasses, and might well have been the catalyst
for the Ripture War. But much remains unclear. If they were
responsible for the distribution of the Soulglasses, why have they not
repeated the distribution? Perhaps the Soulglasses are a natural
occurrence, appearing every so often, and have been used by the
Darshak, the Orga, and by exiles, at various different times. A
disturbing thought, to be honest.
I have many questions, but few answers.
Para: It is a long-standing tradition at the conclusion of a Fishwrap
interview that you are allowed to ask the Thoom 1 (ONE) question. You
may ask your ONE (1) question now.
Callia: Hm . . . What should I ask? I think perhaps the thing that
would interest me the most would be your own thoughts on the Mystic
Guild, its current (apparent) endeavors, and its future. What do you
think? Where are we (the Mystic Guild) going? What does Puddleby think
of us? Why? Rather more than 1 (ONE) question I'm afraid, answer as
you see fit.
Para (stepping outside of his traditional persona as detached
interviewer): I support the Mystic Council's plan to engage the
'Brions in trade, with some reservations. I think Puddleby needs to
find out more about the Strange Stones and about the abilities of the
'Brions, and only through interaction will that become possible. I do
recommend that mystics heed the advice of those who are cautioning
them to make sure the other orders (healers and fighters as well as
those who have chosen no profession) are involved in the trade. I
suggest appointing representatives from the fighter and healer
communities to be involved in whatever delegation is selected to
arrange a trade. If something goes wrong with the trade, and only the
Mystic Guild is involved, the negative repercussions for the Guild
could be enormous. Mystics should be sure to share the responsibility
of this decision for the good of Puddleby and for their own good as
well.
I think the future of the Mystic Guild is cloudy at this point.
Mystics seem to be at a crossroads. The policies of secrecy have left
many in Puddleby asking if we really even need mystics. Many are even
questioning what exactly makes someone a mystic in the first place, as
the controversy over Manticore has recently so clearly indicated. I
think excessive secrecy has helped to bring about this situation. I
can understand the desire to keep certain mystic secrets. Yet I think
this climate of secrecy has covered the Guild so much that mystics are
increasingly in danger of losing their relevance in Puddleby. I see
the Manticore controversy and the recent public announcement as
important turning points, and I hope to see mystics moving toward a
policy of maintaining those secrets deemed necessary while also
preserving a voice in the community. I think your interview here will
help to heighten public awareness of the issues important to mystics,
and I thank you for agreeing to an interview with Fishwrap.
#####
INTERVIEW WITH RINCEWIND
BY PARAMEDIC
Para: #1) What do you think of the 'Brion brothers? Should Puddleby trade
with them?
Rincewind: Hrm, I must admit I've rarely seen very much of the 'Brion
Brothers. They never seem to be around when I'm about, so much of my
opinion is based on third-hand information.
Having said that, it seems they are not terribly dissimilar to many
exiles: good at looking out for themselves, without much interest in
others. More competition to us, than direct threat I feel. If they'd
really been intent on invasion, they surely would have done so ages
ago...and I can't see that possessing a few orga stones would affect
the odds of victory or defeat much at all.
As for trading with them, as long as it done cautiously, and with a
clear understanding of who is getting what exactly, I see no reason
not to. We could well gain important skills or tools from it, though
the cost will doubtless be high. I personally don't see the
'Brions as
a dire threat, but rather in the same way one might greet a strong
warrior from far off lands appearing suddenly. In other words, as
someone to be treated with caution certainly, but also with respect
and the hope that in time one can work together to become allies.
Para: #2) Are these good times to be a mystic? Bad times? Is the
Mystic Council representing mystics well? Is it the job of the Mystic
Council to represent mystics?
Rincewind:Um, interesting times. There have been several recent events
that have focused peoples attention on the mystic class, which overall
is a good thing, even if the events themselves weren't. Mystics are
the least understood and least effectively utilized class. Non-mystics
often have little idea what a well trained mystic can do, and many
mystics lack the practice and experience to use their skills
effectively.
Many people seem to think all mystics are similar, and therefore
become disenchanted when whomever they ask can't do whatever. However,
mystics tend to vary in skills far more than fighters and healers. For
example, one can roughly predict what a 3rd circle fighter might be
able to solo however they are trained. Yet pick 2 mystics and there
can be a complete contrast. Some have awesome boosts but can't locate
at all, while others can locate a fallen miles away, but can't boost;
yet others can tune sunstones and open illusions but not boost or
locate. Overall, mystics need more experience in using their skills in
the field, and non-mystics need to give them the opportunity to do
so...it might even help! :D
As for the council, it's not their role to represent mystics; it's up
to each individual to build his or her own reputation. The council is
merely there to guide them along the path.
Para: #3) Could you tell us a little about your skills of location?
How can exiles best improve their chances of being located when
fallen? What do you think exiles do not know about location-finding,
but should know?
Rincewind: Sure. To be effective as a locator, one needs much the same
knowledge and skills as a rescue healer: a thorough knowledge of the
lands, how to get from A to B (safely and quickly, with or without
pathfinding) and also a good knowledge of exiles (who hunts with who,
where they like to hunt, and how good the healer offering to go get
them is). While often there isn't much point in trekking out to the
fallen personally as a mystic (you can't do much when one gets there
other than gossip or fall!), one needs to know the area both to
correctly interpret the skristal reading, and also to ensure that
those offering to rescue know how to/can get there, and are likely to
succeed.
As for improving one's chances: if I don't know that someone is
fallen, I won't know they need help, so \share and toggle (or wait a
few minutess for me to see the fallen message). It's also easier to
locate those with strong mind training...though that's about as
popular as fighters training spiritus to make them easier to heal :D
As I'm often working on getting help for several fallens at once, it
can take time to get help for everyone, and if you're feeling ignored
or forgotten, toggle again! The same applies if you feel that the
locate was off target. Skristals see the world rather differently, so
if you feel the locate isn't right, toggle again. Lastly, it is always
helpful to know if a fallen is being chained or pushed to another
area, so please let me know if a fallen is on the move.
Para: #4) When you are not in town locating, what do you like to do?
Do you have favorite hunting grounds?
Rincewind: Heh, exploring. The only weapons I possess are my wands. I
almost never go hunting, as it's simply not worth it for me. I think
the weakest thing I "kill" is an Orga Fury! Having said that, I do
enjoy joining a group to boost if they are having trouble with a tough
critter, or go on clan hunts to boost the weaker fighters and healers
so they can tag. (Boosting works best in an area where the fighters
can hit all but the toughest critter commonly found there.)
However, mostly I go exploring: poking around in remote corners and
far off places, as well as constantly striving to improve my knowledge
of the lands. I'm constantly looking for clues, or trying new
solutions to puzzles such as how to open the Mirrors or the Muddy
Forest Rose, as well as to see what's new; also so that I can guide
rescuers to anywhere fallens happen to be. There are very few places
that I've never been to, and not many I'd get lost in; mostly those
that require an army to get to (the various mazes under the Brion
castles are the only ones that come to mind, though I've been to them
all at least once). About the only places I'll not attempt a rescue
effort are those one simply cannot enter (for example, beyond an
illusion when no Full Mystics are about) or the Foothills when there
are only 10 people in the world.
Para: #5) Who is more of a threat to Puddleby and why: Darshak, Orga
or Undine? Do you think any of these work together?
Rincewind: Hrm, I'd guess I'd have to say, the Orga. They are the most
widespread, and have put several huge invasion forces together in the
past. When they include bolt throwers into their army, they can be
extremely tough to repulse. While there are tough Darshak and Undines,
I have yet to see any that are worse than an Orga Hatred with a
Hemlock or two backup. Even Greater Deaths can be outrun, and I've
never seen them in an invasion force, luckily. The Darshak thankfully
never seem to have much of a strategy, and so while their numbers may
be great, their invasions lack direction and purpose, and the same for
the undine.
Para: Any last comments for Fishwrap readers?
Rincewind: Mystic skills are enhanced (more effective and easier) when
more people are sharing; this is true even if you're asleep or
gossiping in town. If you've got a spare slot, share a mystic!
#####
TESTING THE CLUBS
BY HIMITSU
After spending some time investigating the exact qualities of the new
clubs, I discovered that Flickering is a relatively new addition to
the other clubs (Bright, Glowing, Brilliant) so I bought the
Flickering club and did some testing in the Monastery. I then
determined that the numbers I'd seen in the past weren't exactly
accurate so I ended up buying all of the clubs and came up with these
approximate numbers.
These new clubs act as regular clubs except they won't let you swing
until you get to a minimum percent balance. This is good because if
you're a fighter who relies on Balthus for most of your defense then
you don't have to worry about getting too low. The bad thing is they
are sticky just like the Gossamer, Fell Blade, and Bloodblade used by
the fighters and the Mercurial Staff used by the healers.
Flickering (10c) - 50%
Glowing (19c) - 65%
Bright (49c) - 80%
Brilliant (108c) - 100%
All of the percentages are rounded to the nearest whole number and are
approximations, except for Flickering and Brilliant, which are exact.
If you think these numbers are off, please let me know. I'm pretty
sure they're correct but that doesn't mean they are.
If you like these clubs, you can buy them from the basement in Wiktus'
shop or from me at cost (quantity 1 each). Prices vary a bit as all
the weapons do but they're around the ones I gave above.
So there you have it, the Light Clubs.
#####
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Publisher and Editor: Paramedic
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