The Truth Is
The truth is always far more bizarre than science fiction.
Edgar Allan Poe was expelled from West Point in 1831
Category: virtual
Facebook -Yes Delete Is Possible
Facebook is perhaps one of the Social Media places nearly everyone has at one time joined. Anyone who is engaged with this site may have downloaded an APP like messaging, installed the FB on a phone, smart device or PC. If you did, you may have noticed that everything you do, everywhere you go, FB is right there following and monitoring your every move. It has become Big Brothers step-child.
If you find you are addicted, tired of the spy or just had enough of the drama, you CAN completely remove Facebook.
It was very difficult for me, to locate how I could remove myself from Facebook. All the HELP pages kept directing me in a seemingly endless circle. Facebook makes a lot of money tracking you, selling your information and sharing what you buy, where you eat and basically your personal life. It was not hard for me to understand why they wanted me to only deactivate.
Here is the link to both. (the difference of deactivating verses deleting Facebook)
Deactivate Facebook (A temporary Solution)
Delete Facebook (deleting your Facebook ~~ Permanently)
Facebook CLAIMS it could take up to 90 days to remove all your personal information from their servers. They have back-ups of back-ups. Furthermore the Internet has a way of perpetuating anything you post. Do Not be fooled into thinking because you have your FB set as private that it is. I looked at one time many profiles that thought they had blocked me from seeing what they were posting.
And there is always the “FRIEND OF A FRIEND” who copies and shares what you thought was private.
The Blogger Recognition Award
Who Nominated Me ~ Arohii
Thank-You Arohii for nominating me for “The Blogger Recognition Award” I am truly honored.
https://zhwadevivre.wordpress.com/2016/02/06/the-award-post/
The Originator Of The Award ~ Eve Estelle on 10.29.2014
http://eveofnight.blogspot.com/2014/10/lets-celebrate-whos-up-for-award.html
http://eveofnight.blogspot.com/2014/10/lets-celebrate-whos-up-for-award.html
My Nominees
1.) ELIZABETH ANN JOHNSON-MURPHREE
https://ajmurphree.wordpress.com
2.)William Hancock – A Curious Mind
https://acuriousmind2013.wordpress.com/
3.)Phillip Edwards
http://pmespeak.com/
4.)Tosha Michelle
http://laliterati.com/
5.)Kristen Lamb
https://warriorwriters.wordpress.com/
https://warriorwriters.wordpress.com/2016/02/04/unfriended-why-cleaning-up-your-friends-could-be-costing-you-big/
6.)Elizabeth – The Crumbs Of My Life
https://thecrumbsofmylife.wordpress.com/
7.)Neha
https://forgottenmeadows.wordpress.com/
8.)Chicwithmessybun (Bhavya)
https://chicwithmessybun.wordpress.com
9.)Noorain
https://theplatememoirs.wordpress.com/
10.)West517
https://west517photos.wordpress.com/
11.)Mirna Morgan – Poetheart
https://mirnamorgan62.wordpress.com/
12.)Paloma
http://blogitorloseit.com/
13.)Paul Militara
http://photopaulm.com/
14.)Sofia Kioroglou
https://sofiakioroglou.wordpress.com/
15.)Lis
https://liska11.wordpress.com/
My brief story on how I started my blog
This would be my ninth blog, since blogs begin. This is perhaps the last blog. I found that WordPress powers the best platform for blogging. I installed it on all of my websites. WordPress provides for me complete control and flexibility for my needs. I started this blog about three years back. I did not do much with it until about two years ago. About one and a half years ago my post were a chronic mix of poetry, photos, and a convoluted mess of thoughts. I had no real direction, no true path, not even a clue about why I wrote anything here. I did not follow anyone nor did I have any followers. My blog was at best a place where I stored “stuff” for my now deleted Facebook page. The FB which I ending up deleting (yes you can delete your FB but it is hard to find out how) was where I posted my stories, quotes, pictures from the road and poetry. I had the max number of friends, on FB which I think was about 3,500. So this blog was where I would go to create, edit and refine my future FB post. But after I deleted my FB account, I turned to WordPress. I initially deleted all the crazy mixed up post and rebuilt it. And even though I went through some growing pains, re-posted some content that still was a group of different irrelevant topics, I finally got a grip on the direction I wanted to go. One day I got a follower! Den169 – Dennis Ference ‘Merging Traffic’ That really opened my world as I looked at his post, followers and realized there was actually more to blogging than I knew. So here I am, here we are. Do not fear. Post the words you are passionate about. This would be my fifth nomination for an award. I can understand why so many sites say they are an “Award Free Zone” because it is very time consuming to answer the various questions a nominator may present. It took me a couple of days to locate bloggers for me to nominate. I wanted to nominate people who never had The Blogger Recognition Award. Hopefully I did my research well. But if I missed my mark comment and select someone else you would nominate instead. Also, there certainly are very many blogs I wanted to include. Honestly I devoted far to much time in making these 15 nominees. Most are followers who made interaction directly with my post this year. Enjoy what you love and write the words from your heart.
THE RULES
- Rule 1: Thank the person who nominated you and provide a link to their blog.
- Rule 2: Provide a link to the award creator.
- Rule 3: Attach the award to your post.
- Rule 4: Nominate fifteen other bloggers, excluding yourself and the person who nominated you.
- Rule 5: Write a brief story of how you started your blog.
- Rule 6: A piece or two of advice to new bloggers.
- Rule 7: Comment on the blogs you have named here to let them know you have nominated them.
Advice For Bloggers
- Add a search box to your blog. It makes it easy for readers to find a topic or previous post.
- Do not be afraid to follow blogs in a language you can not read. That is what transulators are for. Many bloggers are from other cultures, languages, countries. You WILL be surprised of the amazing creativity people from around the world write. NEVER limit your blog to only your native language. Love is what makes the world go ’round… right?
- ONE MORE THING
CHECK YOUR GRAVATAR! It is the single most important tool you will ever have. Make sure your blog is the first site listed. Fail to do this simple task will earn you few followers which means fewer readers will ever find your post. - A Word In Your Gravatar
iRamble About Blogs
Spoken Or Written
Poetry about the weather
Poems about love
Words about the heavens
Thoughts of stars above
Bliss in emotion
Dreams of a kiss
Writing of what is missing
Wandering amiss
Story of a life
Hurt by the other
Tales in denial
Anger for a lover
Visions to behold
Captivating the audience
Lottery of gold
Photos in a camera
A gift in a pen
Absence of heartfelt
Advice never taken
What did you get
Blogs in a web
Fly on a wall
Spoken in my head
Taking me to bed
All the words we read
Everything we write
Is all there is to learn
In the bloggers own insight
A Bugs Advice; If you find yourself flying in a blue dream, don’t fly into the light. ~ Wade Lancaster (poems of a moth)
Puissant Of Kandarin – Adventure In Lumbridge
Authors Foreword
As I continue my story I am reaching back nearly ten years trying to remember what it was like back then. A lot has changed since the early years of this game. Therefore, I am revisiting the places, characters and memories in a noob garb. The screenshots are from the in-game as it is now. Recently I read a post from a fellow blogger about how writing a story from a role playing game like this can help to improve your skills. You can read it HERE I am glad I started writing about my experience before this post, and perhaps others may look at this as a way to engage in a way I think can prove to be an interesting story. In addition to, I am passionate about my writing as well as my game. It has given me some goal oriented pleasure both in playing this game and in writing about it. I have once again embellished the characters to make them seem more realistic. However, one will only experience these in this story view. The NPC’s do not really interact with the player in this way. Mostly they give an options dialog for a player to choose. I made most of this up. Nevertheless, everything is based on actual role playing found in-game. There was a time when people asked me why I play RuneScape and some still do. My answer will always be the same, I enjoy it. It gives me something to write about. I have kept a journal of my “Adventures Of A Noob” since October 6, 2006 in both pictures and text. Therefore I can say I have been writing this story for nearly 10 years. I am staying with the First Person view. I think it is easier for me to write the story from my memoirs dialog. I always welcome comments and suggestions.
Book One – Chapter One – Part Three
Puissant Of Kandarin – Adventure In Lumbridge
After Hans departed to continue his rounds patrolling the Lumbridge Castle grounds I decided to gather some food. I exited the castle walls and headed north toward the general store. The merchant was very helpful, just as Hans said he would be, and gave me a map of Gielinor, a hammer, a bronze knife, new might I add, and a tinder box. The general store had many items for sale, anything from clay pots to wooden buckets, knifes and cake tins. The shop assistant informed me they also will buy some items. So I sold the old dull knife I found for one gold coin.
Next I visited the Fishing Store and the kind man, Hank, gave me a small fishing net. He told me it was perfect for catching shrimp! To my surprise he also handed me a small cage for catching crawfish. The man advised me to try the small pond just to the northwest to catch some delicious tasting crawdads. Hank had an eye-patch over his right eye, and a bandana on his head. His mustache and beard tapered to a point, was dark and well kept. He was wearing a two-toned grey shirt and brown pants with a shop keepers white apron. He looked very much like a pirate!
I needed to make a fire to cook my catch. It would provide for some warmth during the cold nights too. I headed back east then south toward where Hans said Bob’s Axes shop would be. I went inside of the home. The man inside was dark skinned with short curly black hair. He appeared to be from the region of desert dwellers I had heard about. He wore the traditional blacksmith clothing and apron. Bob greeted me with such cheerful enthusiasm. “Hello adventurer! Welcome to Bob’s Axes and repairs. I am Bob, owner of this fine establishment. I make the best axes in all of Gielinor. My wood-cutting axe are forged from the finest materials available. I select the most desired wood for my custom built handles and each head I personally smith myself. I have everything from bronze, steel, Mithril, and even Runite. I also have pick-ax for sale. Would you like to have a look at my inventory?” “Hello Bob!” I said, “I am Puissantius, a newcomer to Lumbridge. Hans told me you could help me to get a bronze axe.” “Ah yes Puissantius indeed I can. Hans is a fine chap. He serves the Duke, been here forever too. As a service to our new arrivals, the Duke has made one of my bronze beauties available to you for free. Merchants like I wish to help you to become honest citizens. We do not take a liking to thieves. Therefore we encourage all new arrivals to make an honest living. I can even offer to give you some work. Other merchants here will also have something for you to do. Everyone needs a few coins. Here take this bronze axe as a gift. Also let me give you one of my bronze pick-ax, it is new, much better than that old used one Hans told you he left up on the watchtower. ” “Thanks Bob! This is a well-made axe. I have never seen such fine craftsmanship! It is well balanced and sharp as a tack.” I said. “Thank-you Puissantius. I am glad you can see and appreciate my work. Once you have gained some experience using this bronze axe, or it becomes dull, come back and see me. Maybe by then you will want to upgrade to something better. Mithril axes are far better. And my prices are very affordable too. You can even use these as a weapon in a pinch. Also, remember that I can repair armor once you have some.” “Okay Bob. Thanks for the axe. I will be back soon. But right now I am really hungry, and it is getting late in the day. I hope to catch some fish for supper and make a fire before dark. I will be on my way now. Thanks again.” “You are welcome adventurer. Be safe and come back again.” Bob said.
I left Bobs house and headed south toward the fishing area. There was a wall at the end of the road. The only way around was through the graveyard behind the church. It was a little bit spooky walking past the gravestones. There was an old iron fence around the yard. I saw many very old weathered headstones as I walked through. Above me ravens flew in endless circles There was a woman standing near what appeared to be a tomb. I thought I saw a ghost standing near the river. That made me pick up my pace to a run. To the far southeast of the cemetery was a partly opened coffin. I thought I saw something moving inside so I ran as fast as I could away and out of the exit.
Whoa! I could see some very large rats walking in the foggy swamp to the west. I remembered Hans telling me to stay close to the river. These rats had some very large teeth! I am sure they would rip a man apart in an instant. I am glad I have this axe.
In the distance I could see a man standing near a small point. He was wearing all blue. A coat that had many pocket, like an experienced fisherman would have. A brown hat with a feather, much worn looking like it has seen many days at sea. He was shouldering one of the finest rod and reel fishing poles I had ever seen. His beard and mustache had a seemingly French look about it. Perhaps more of a three musketeers look.
He started casting his net out into the water, drawing it back in with expert skill. I hope I can learn to cast my net with such skill as his. Once I got to the area he greeted me. “Hey how are you today?” He said. “I am fine.” I replied. “How are you?” “I am doing great. Well not great.” I said. “I arrived earlier today and found myself with very little equipment to survive. But good fortune came my way and some people here in Lumbridge have been most helpful. I hope I can cast this net and maybe catch a few shrimp to fill my hunger.” The man laughed and held his belly. “Well lad you have come to the right place. This is a fine place to catch shrimp. Anchovy are also pretty abundant here too. I happen to be a teacher of the fishing skill. And I hold a competition I call ‘Fish Flingers’ where one can compete against other people for some great prizes. Here watch me and see if you can cast your net like I do. First you need to look at the water. This is very important. Look for swirls in the tide. That is where the little scoundrels school. Next cast your net out, and over the area. Make sure it opens as you cast it outward. Aim for an area just above where the shrimp are swimming. As the net falls into the water, let it sink. Then pull the string back toward you and capture the shrimps. Keep doing this until you have some in the net. It may take a few cast, maybe many. But if you are patient you will have dinner soon.”
I watched him cast his net and draw it back a few times. It did not take long and he had a nice bounty of large tasty looking shrimp. “Okay.” He said. “You give it a try. Look over there I see a few nice swirls.” I cast my net out. It just stayed in a bundle and sadly fell on nothing. I cast it again, and again. The more times I tried the better the net spun and opened. All at once my net opened and fell like I was an expert. As I pulled the string and began to draw it in it felt heavy. Pulling it onto the shore I could see a few dozen nice large shrimp inside. “Excellent work!” The man said. “Looks like you have a nice bundle for dinner.” Have you ever cooked shrimp before?” “Well not really.” I said. “My Mum always cooked at home.” “Well then it is very likely you will burn some of these. Try and catch a few more net-full before you head home for the night, just in case. You can always sell any left-over shrimp you do not eat. The bank also can store them if you like. ”Okay, thank-you sir.” I cast my net out for a while longer and caught many more shrimp. The night was only an hour or so away. So I decided I should head back to the safety of the castle.
To the south I could hear the sounds of pick-ax on stone. That must be the mine that Hans had told me about. Maybe tomorrow I can try my hand at mining. Learning to smith some ore into useful items would be a great skill I should practice. I left and headed back toward the castle. There was a few swamp trees along the way. I got out my shiny and sharp bronze axe Bob gave me and chopped a nice bundle of logs.
Between my bounty of shrimp, the newly acquired tools and the logs, I was a little bit burdened. I know I will need to become more agile if I am to carry a lot of items. It seems the more I learn the more I need to learn and work on. I guess that is a part of growing. Becoming a better and stronger person, mentally, physically and morally. These seem like some great goals. I scurried past the giant rats. They seemed a little bit bigger than when I saw them earlier. Maybe they ate someone! I hope not. Drawing closer to the cemetery I picked up my pace. And darted through not even looking at the lady who was still standing near the crypt.
Once I was within the safety of the Lumbridge castle walls I got out my tinderbox and preceded to light a fire. It took me several tries, but I eventually got some tinder burning. I added some wood from the trees I cut earlier. Once I had a good blaze going I added some timbers and finally had some good coals to cook with. In my hunger, I burned quite a few shrimp before I finally got the hang of time and temperature. I am glad the man advised me to get many. I was so hungry I cooked and ate every one of my shrimp. It tasted so good! I am excited to catch some more. I want to try and get some chicken tomorrow. That would be so tasty. I really want to learn how to cook so many different foods. Pies! Yes I will have to learn how to make these. Yummy cakes to.
I took a good long drink from the fountain. I was very satisfied. My stomach was full and I was tired from the long day. Today was a great day. I met some nice people. I learned how to care for myself. I miss my mum. A man can really appreciate his mother. She did a great job in teaching me to be a loving and kind man. My father too, I miss him. He hardened me and taught me how to hunt and build things from wood. He was loving too. I miss my family. One day I will return to see them. But now, for now, I have to follow the path the gods have set me on. I added enough wood to the fire so it would burn through most of the night. I laid near the warmth of the flames. Closing my eyes… drifting off to sleep.
Authors Post Note
I am not sure if including images (screenshots) in a story is a good idea. It does give the reader a better visual of the story. I have read many great books that paint the story in words.
I Am Because Of You
[this post was a draft about a year ago. it is a completely random mix of something past]
Thoughts from the vine in a web spun chaos of crafty imagination
I wish to thank all those people who came in my life to teach me that I needed to change. I wish to thank all those closed minded people who completely misunderstood my unique personality because you all unknowingly helped me to become more determined to maintain my uniqueness. I thank the people who misused me, the ones who gossiped about me, and the ones who back stabbed me because you all were my wake up call to a better version of me. I thank all those who broke my heart because they thought that I was a simple, stupid and vulnerable man. It was because of you all that I learned that there comes a time in life when you have to stop putting the reins of your heart into the hands of women who can intimidate you. I thank you all because you transformed me into a man who can stand tall and survive on his own terms without being victimized. Thank you all for giving me my wings. I feel like a butterfly out of a cocoon.
The laws of nature can never be broken. It is the human emotions, the human experience, that dictates what is broken.
Don’t look for perfections’ when you fall in love. Fall in love when you are ready to embrace flaws and imperfections. Fall in love when you are ready to be vulnerable. Fall in love when you are ready to sacrifice, when you are ready to share all your passions and dreams. Fall in love when you are ready to give your all. ~ Aarti Khurana
You may never find your way… But please do not deny me the chance to find mine.
Trust can never be obtained when one continues with lies.
The beast that lives inside of everyone must be shackled and chained. Let not hate be the beast that dwells outside.
Our goal is to swim in the sea of tranquility. Whenever we feel ourselves drowning in the sea of disparity… Perhaps the best way is to stand on each others shoulder’s not on each others toes.
Are you guilty of clicking on something without reading it? You know that terms of use or agreement you just scroll down to the bottom and click “I Accept” on websites or software? We are all guilty of the click, click, click syndrome, right? Did you know by law, international law that electronic agreement is binding and can be enforced? You may want to actually read every word of any electronic agreement before clicking I Accept. Here’s something I did once a long time ago just to see if anyone was really reading it.
I had a Microsoft user license for 1000 copies of the MS Games Action Pack. It had 15 games like Tetris, Cards, Tiles and Ski-free. In order to download and install the game pack a user had to agree to the MS terms of use and a per-user license agreement by the owner which was me. This download was a custom created software installation that would install the games in a folder for Windows 3.1, 95 and 98 automatically. All someone had to do was to download the MSI or EXE file, click it and agree to the terms of use which as we all know was a very long read. Once the user clicked on “I Agree” the software would be automatically installed and open up saying it was complete. There was nothing wrong with the file, no virus, or anything that harmed a PC or tracked the user. The person could play freely all the games with an unlimited use or time. What was different was in the user agreement, that by law was legal and binding. I did nothing wrong I only wanted to see if 1000 people would click and agree. Here is what I added in the middle of the software license agreement;
By clicking on I ACCEPT to this legally binding agreement according to the laws of California, Washington State, United States law where permitted and international law where applicable you agree to the following terms. If you do not agree do not install this software because by doing so you agree to these terms. If you do not agree you must delete all copies of this software from the computer hard disc drive, floppy disk or any other storage media. If you question this agreement you can send and e-mail to {suppressed} by clicking here and the subject line will be formatted for you. Type in your response and reason for not accepting this agreement in full or if you only accept some of the terms for use. You still must accept Microsoft Terms of Use by clicking here which is part of this download because MS is the owner of the software. A new terms of use file will open which supersedes this agreement. By continuing you agree to the following; 1.) You agree to give me use of your timeshare for one week next year for my sole and exclusive use. 2.) You agree to have your husband (if a married female) wash my car and cut my grass for a period of one week each year for 2 years. OR if a married male to have your wife live with me for two weeks every year (at your expense) for the next 2 years, not for the purpose of sex or favors but as a companion only. If wife has a problem with this agreement you agree to buy her $20,000 worth of jewelry over the next 5 years, to be available for her at all times to listen to anything she has to say and to give her back and shoulder rubs, foot massage or perform anything she desires at any time. If you as husband fail to do everything wife wants per this agreement you agree to pay me $100,000 of which I will personally buy wife $25,000 worth of jewelry and spend the remaining $75,000 on an attorney who will make your life a living hell until you do exactly as wife says. 3.) You agree to lend my your car for 30 days out of the year and to maintain car in good mechanical shape and provide gasoline. 4.) You agree to, I can at anytime over the next 5 years decide what I want to add to this agreement without further notice to you. I only need to notify you of what I want and you must agree.
Of the 999 people who downloaded and installed this software only one person did not agree. This is the e-mail sent to the mailbox in the link;
Subject: I DO NOT AGREE
Dear Wade,
My name is Julia (removed) and I really want to use this software. I live in the state of California and I am a married female. I did some checking and you’re right this agreement is binding in California. I need these games because my husband is never home and this would help me to pass the time. He is cheating on me but California is a no fault divorce state. I want to amend your agreement, with your permission please. Can I send you my husband for 6 months instead of two weeks for the next five years. Also, if you would be so kind, can you offer one more download for my husband, please. He never reads anything. On our recent anniversary I gave him a card. In it I wrote I know you are cheating on me with a woman from Armenia. I found her letters in your briefcase. I also hired a PI and have pictures of you two together. I also learned you are taking language lessons learning to speak Armenian. We need to talk. Love, Julia. He opened the letter and pretended to read it, because all he said was how sweet. Thanks for the thoughtful card. He got me nothing for that special day. He says he wants to also download this game but the website says all copies have been used and no other are available for download. He says he wants to play Tetris. Which I find funny because he could just buy it. Once he has installed the game pack I will print a copy of the terms for him to see. I really want the jewelry and to have him pay more attention to my wants and needs. Its possible he may send me to you, so I just want you to be ready for one of us to arrive soon. I am a very attractive and fit woman. But my husband has told me I am only a trophy wife. He is very wealthy and will most likely just throw money at this agreement. You could profit by amending item 4 for a large sum of money. We have several time shares. (she listed them here but I removed) We have (list of cars, removed) let me know which one and I’ll have it shipped to you. I will put a credit card in the glove box for gasoline and repairs. My husband and I are very stubborn. If we both choose to invoke our rights under this agreement would you please not let us be with you at the same time? This would be very much appreciated because I could not stand the thought of being with his lying cheating ass in the same place. You seem like a thoughtful and sweet man. Mostly because you gave a wife so much leverage when you made this agreement. Or you are a woman? Either way I look forward to hearing from you soon. Please reply. Best Regards, Julia (removed) (address removed) (phone number removed) (email removed)
Did you just click on my post or did you really read it?
Puissant Of Kandarin In Lumbridge
Authors Foreword
I am working out in my mind the different ways to present this story “Puissant Of Kandarin” and in the first flavor I went with the “he” persona in third person. In Book One Chapter One Part Two “Puissant Of Kandarin In Lumbridge” I went with the “I” persona in first person. I wanted to entertain the first person view somewhat more in line of a memoir. This story is based on an extension of me. I am thinkin It seems I can give the reader a better view of where we are going when I add more feeling. I do feel what is happening to my character in-game. Dying is really frustrating. There was one quest I did (I will write about at a later chapter) where I was so very sad that the NPC I was trying to help died. I have to admit I did get a little teary eyed at the part of the quest. 😦
Comments and any criticisms are wanted. Please feel free to express any.
Book One – Chapter One – Part Two
Puissantius took a drink from the fountain. He had nothing but the clothes on his back and the ten gold coins in the bank. With only some small morsels of food he may starve soon. The small bronze knife he concealed in his belt was of little value. It wasn’t really sharp enough to cause much harm. He could go to the river and maybe catch a tiny fish with his bare hands to eat. But seeing those green skinned goblins marching about quickly took that thought away. They probably would eat him! And besides there is usually a snake hiding in the grass waiting to bite anything that walked near it. He remembered seeing a giant spider near the bridge. He knew darkness was only hours away and he didn’t even have a way to make a fire and much less wood to burn. He longed to go home but he had not a clue where that was from here. Even if he did know where home was there was no way he could swim across the sea. Even if he could swim he probably would be gobbled up by some horror from the deep. Or pirates would enslave him and feed him to some parrot or worse eat him themselves. Things were looking very grim. He was lost and left it seems to die in a beautiful city. Maybe he could just beg some food or find a job nearby. But he did not know anyone here to even ask for work.
Looking around the area as he stood alone behind the shadows of the cold blue-grey wall, he could hear footsteps. There was a man who was walking from the west, coming from the rear of the castle. As he drew closer I walked up near him. He was wearing stylish clothing of earthy tones. His pants were a blue-grey with some brown patches, cut in a form fitting style. His coat was a reddish-brown and black almost a checkerboard pattern. The lapels were turned outward from the collar and the lining was a light tan. He wore collar length hair, dark brown and parted in the middle. His shirt was a light and medium grey pattern cut in a V-neck. His coat and pants both were cuff, a light tan lining. He approached me.
“Hello!” he said. “What are you doing here?” “I don’t know. I’m lost. Where am I?” I said. He replied; “Why you are in Lumbridge Castle! My name is Hans, I server Duke Horacio. Are you here to kill someone? Maybe you are looking for the person in-charge? That would be The Duke. I patrol the castle.” “No.” I said. “I am not here to kill anyone. And I already met ‘The Duke’. A strange one he is. I am Puissantius. You must be pretty old Hans? You look pretty wise.” Hans smiled. “I have been here since… always. I am the oldest member of our city. But I am not the oldest in Gielinor. Still I am of the human race, like you. I’ve heard about you. You are here to learn and perhaps save the worlds. And being a newcomer I can tell you your journey will not be an easy one. Nevertheless, you will have so many adventures and meet people of many races.
There are beast of great power and capable of destruction like you have never known. And people live here practicing dark magic and others only magic for good. In the beginning the gods who first created these worlds struggled with roles of power. To the far north is an area known as the wilderness. It was there that the ascended gods fought in a Great War, attempting to control the balances of the universe. The area was left in ruins and the entire region is desolate. A large crater is there and a great volcano. I warn you to not go there unless you are prepared to die. Many adventures can be found in the area. They will attempt to kill you and take anything you have on your person. There is also many dangerous beast whose magical abilities are more than you can imagine. You will find a small wall around the entire region. Look around before climbing walls, there are signs posted warning if you cross over death will soon find you. But as you probably already have been told, you are of an immortal linage, and if you die you will be teleported back here, minus anything you carry.” I could hardly think of what to say next after hearing all that. Words eluded my tongue. So I just blabbed out; “This is a beautiful city. Seems like a nice place to call home.”
You do have a bank account, right?” “Yes.” I said. “Sir Isaac helped me to open an account. He also introduced me to The Duke. But when I followed him down here to this fountain he said a short farewell. I saw him pull a small tablet out from his backpack, and when he threw it down on the ground, something swirled around him and he just vanished!” Hans smiled and then laughed. He used a teleportation tablet. There is no telling where it took him, only he knew where he was going next. These tablets are created from soft clay and runes. Someone who is proficient in magic can create different ones on a lectern in their home. “What is your name?” he said. “I said I am Puissantius. I was brought here from Ashdale. That is where I grew up. But I am told I was born in…” Hans cut him off. “Puissant, I know all about you, where you were born and what you are to become, to do here. I know you will in time find out everything you want to know. But for now, let me help you to know a little more about where you are, after all, that was one of your questions. You are in the city of Lumbridge. It is called that because it is situated on the river Lum and there is a bridge that crosses the river leading here. Here is not everywhere and you can get anywhere without crossing the bridge. We are in the providence of Misthalin which joins with Asgarnia. A map will help you to find your way around.
Go outside these castle walls and turn left, which is north. Follow the road a little ways and you will see a general store to your left. Go inside and ask the merchant for a map. Also ask for a tinderbox. These are free of charge. Next go back south, the way you came, pass the entrance to this castle, a bit further you will see a sign on a house, ‘Bob’s Axes’. Go inside and talk with Bob. He will give you a bronze axe for wood cutting. Then come back to this castle, go up in the watch tower to the north. At the top level you will find a bronze pick-axe. It is yours for the taking. These are some basic tools you will need to survive. Since you do not have a home, or a place to sleep, you can stay in the safety of these walls.” “Okay, wow thanks Hans you have been very helpful!”
Hans smiled a sheepish grin and said; “Now let me give you some advice. Since you are a newcomer, you should study the map. It will give you some sense of direction. To the north is where all trading is done. It is known as the ‘Grand Exchange’ and there is where you can buy and sell anything deemed tradable by the kingdoms. I’m sure you will need to make some money. With the wood cutting axe you can gather logs. Many people buy these for obvious reasons. Also, you can use the pickaxe to mine ores. People buy this as well. But I must warn you that the road to the city of Varrock, where the buyers and seller are, is dangerous. Highwaymen are always looking to steal. I suggest you bank your goods here, then once you get there you can withdraw these from a banker there.” “Okay.” I said. “But what will I eat? I am rather hungry right now.” “Well let me continue Puissant. You may have noticed the fields nearby. To the north is a farmer who has more chickens than he will ever need. You can kill a chicken. The cook in the castle can teach you a lot about cooking. But he will only let you use his range after to do some favors for him. As always though, you can cook it on a fire. But you may burn it and not get anything useful. So you may want to kill a few birds just in case. Also, keep the feathers. These are useful for fletching arrows, fly fishing and other things. Be sure you bury any bones you have. The gods grant favor to you when you offer them in prayer. There is a wheat field to the north. The owner will let you mill the grain into flour, but once again for a favor. You can then get water from a fountain and make bread. You can’t cook bread on a fire. Baking bread requires a range. There is a man who has a house at the south end of the city with a range inside. He is a cook and will let you use it. Still you need to talk with the castle cook, he is a guild member and once you enlist his help you can gain access to better utensils. A pot and bucket can be bought at the general store. You will need a pot to store flour in and a bucket can hold both water and milk. Sometimes you may even find these laying around.” “Okay that is very helpful knowledge to know.” I said.
“Also Puissant, you can get a free net from the fishing store, and a fishing pole. They also sell bait. It is located west of the general store, across from Explorer Jacks house. Jack always needs someone to explore something for him. He pays fairly well. Follow the road south along the River Lum. You will find a good place to catch shrimp and anchovies. A bit further south there is a place where you can mine copper and tin. I am sure the tutors in Ashdale taught you how to smelt both into bronze. I would suggest you eat what you need to be healthy, and sell the rest. Make useful items like weapons and armor from the bronze and sell the extra bronze bars or ores. Acquiring gold, that would be something you must pursue. With wealth comes power! And you can buy much needed items, like a house. An estate agent will sell you a parcel of land and a basic home. Refer to your map to locate one.”
“There are many shop owners and citizens who will have task for you. Some pay in gold where others may trade or barter. Become friends with everyone you meet. Though some friends are not what they seem on the surface. Be wary but open. There is a sage on the street outside the castle. Ask him for information, he is very knowledgeable. There is a church outside too. It has been the place of Saradominist worshipers for more than 230 years. Father Aereck is the priest and caretaker of the church. He is a devoted follower of the god Saradomin. There is an altar inside should you need to pray.” “Yes I know Saradomin! He came to me many times before, since I was a child. He is the one who told me I will one day have a great task in life. I serve him! He has kept me from many disastrous endings thus far.” “Well praise Saradomin!” Hans said. But as you know there are many gods in Gielinor. You may find there will be times when you will have to serve others. This will be the only way you can ever understand the universes.” “Saradomin is the god of shiny light. The blue giant. The god of order and wisdom.” I said. “Yes, that is true Puissant. He is the founder of the Temple Knights, the highly secretive, and military espionage order that Sir Isaac belongs to.” “What?!” I said. “You mean to tell me that somehow I was brought here by the Temple Knights? Saradomin came to me prior to me being shackled and chain like some criminal. He told me he had chosen me to be a part of some great beginning, to an end.” “Puissantius that is why you must learn more about all things. It is told that Saradomin is the one who commands and gives the orders to the Temple Knights. I heard that Sir Vey Lance, of Falador, the second in command, after Saradomin himself, gets his orders directly from Saradomin. You know all the gods are also of the human race, right?” “Yes of course.” I said. “We are all created in the image of god. Guthix is the one true God. The God of balance. Guthix created Teragard, his home and there he created humans and the lesser gods.” “Well I am glad you have studied well Puissant.” Hans said. “Guthix then formed Gielinor, this world, and through the ‘World Gate’ he brought peaceful races here. A world free of gods. He along with the seven Megastars rule all of Teragard. He, in his human form wanted this to be a peaceful world. That was the first age.” “How interesting.’ I said. “I love lore and the histories. I wonder how Saradomin, Zamorac, Armadyl and Bandos got here if this was a place without gods.” “Hans grinned then a big smile. He said, “The Elder Gods are so ancient the even Guthix says he cannot remember when they first appeared. Guthix is an ascended god. The Elder Gods were here long before anything. They are the ones who created everything from worlds to life itself. They are said to be the creations, the four of them, of the living God. You indeed have much to learn Puissantius. I don’t know everything, and yes I am very old. Still the universe is alive with mysteries and magic and realms not even me or the ‘Wise Old Man’ of Draynor knows.”
“I must be off soon. I have to patrol these grounds as my duke has commanded. Before I go, I’ll share some final knowledge. Come see me again in five years and I will impart for you a gift. To the south lies a great swamp. There are giant rats who live there. You should stay away from there until the time when you are ready. To the east, across the arch bridge, and to the west behind the castle are goblins. They love to fight. You can train your combat abilities on them. I would not suggest you camp in either of these areas, at least not yet. In the Far East are vampires and ghost. In the far west are elves. In the far North West there be penguins, icy and cold. Trolls inherit the region. They are a nasty and dumb bunch. Not as dumb as goblins though. Stay out of the wilderness. You will encounter many other races in Gielinor. The moon that circles us above is the place known a Zanarus. Even the cows talk there. There are many gods in this world. You will find travel to other worlds that have other gods. There are portals found around the lands that take you to other hidden places. Underground, even below you now, there are dungeons. Always have a light source if you decide to climb down a ladder. There are horrors beneath that will eat the very flesh off your bones. One final word. RUN! If you find yourself being overcome by an enemy. Run away fast. Good-bye for now and good luck.” “Good-bye Hans. Thanks for everything you told me. I’ll be back one day.” Hans walked south and around the corner of the castle. OH, I am hungry. I guess I should go and start my adventure he thought. Walking though the gateway and up the cobblestone street as the morning became afternoon, soon to become his first night alone… In Gielinor.
Authors Post Note
In the early days of RuneScape, after character creation, players went first to Tutorial Island where they learn the basic mode of play. Things like how to move, perform skills, banking and other related procedures were “taught” on the island after you made your character. Once you completed this you were then moved to the in-game starting point in the city of Lumbridge. You were free to go anywhere after this. With the release of RuneScape 3, the current version of the game a new island was introduced; Ashdale. Ashdale provides the same function as the old Tutorial Island.
The NPC (non-player-character) Hans that is the focus of this part in story is an actual in-game character. But Hans in reality only has 4 options that he will talk with you. The entire conversation is fictional but it is based on facts. As I mentioned before RuneScape has an amazing, long storyline. I wanted to give the reader a more personal view of Puissantius, one that only a player could see in-game. But again each person experiences this game in a different perspective. I might add that in-game you are not alone. There could be anywhere from a few to thousands of other player around you at any given time. Usually there are 60-90 thousand players in-game at any given time. One is able to chat with other players, trade, challenge in combat, (only in specified areas) follow, help and many other interactive things.
A Word In Your Gravatar
Lets talk about Gravatars. (click the word for WordPress.org how to)
What is a Gravatar?
According to WordPress a Gravatar is;
When browsing different web sites, you may notice that many users have a picture next to their name. These pictures are called “avatars.” WordPress, however, uses a specific type of avatar called “Gravatars“–short for “Globally Recognized Avatar.” Unlike standard avatars, Gravatars follow you around the web and automatically appear when you post a comment on a WordPress site.
A Gravatar is something that actually is important for your blog. It is easy to set-up and it helps people to find and follow your post. If you’re not wanting anyone to read the blog you spend time writing, ignore this post.
It is really easy to include your WordPress site as a part of the Gravatar.
You can even add your Facebook link, Twitter, About, Pinterest or any other web enabled content you choose. You also can include a phone number, mailing address and write something about yourself, your interest or promote someone else.
When you like or write a comment on a friends blog, your Gravatar shows up as the picture you chose as your Gravatar photo. It is not hard to complete the process. It should be something a writer would want to have.
This is not my first rodeo talking about bloggers Gravatar. In fact I have read some really fine post by other bloggers with precise detailed instruction telling us how to perform this simple task. It can be quite frustrating trying to track down someone’s blog. The last thing any writer wants to do is frustrate the reader. Just today I read Tony’s post on just this subject.
Anything you do not want to share publically you do not have to include. That is beautiful! You have complete control over what you share. How nice is that?
So what do you say? I hope you are saying; “I am going to activate my Gravatar right now so people can follow my blog too!”
Here is mine. Wade Lancaster’s Gravatar and Hovercard
Imagine how much more traffic you can direct to your WordPress Blog, Website, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, Path, Digg, Pinterest, Flickr, Google+, LinkedIn, YouTube, Vine, Snapchat, Reddit and About.Me sites if you include these in your Gravatar.
Puissant Of Kandarin
Puissant Of Kandarin
By Wade Lancaster
Authors’ Foreword
This is the story of Puissant One. A character created within the online game Runescape, by the Gower Brothers, Andrew, Ian and Paul now known as Jagex. Puissant One was created on 6, October 2006 and is found publically as “Adventures of a Noob.” Though the character himself is a real played avatar this story is both factual and fictional. The cities, area, events and non-player characters (NPC) are found in-game and many sites contain complete information. This story is not endorsed by or officially Jagex. It is an account of the authors experience while playing the game. The skills, quest and items are part of the game experience. The story line is and account of this players direction of play. Other persons may see it differently. Many of the stories (quest) have a certain outcome. However, many things are random for different players depending on the direction chosen. Runescape is a FREE MMORPG but also has member privileges. Puissant One is based on a paid subscription.
Book One – Chapter One – Part One
The Awakening
“Wake up Puissantius! Why are you shaking? Wake up. We are arriving at port in a few minutes, hurry and gather your things.” Sir Isaac screams out at him. The last thing he remembers; the sound of waves crashing against the wooden bow indicates we have left harbor. The ships gentle rocking with the waves is peaceful. Listening, he can hear the ship’s crew bustling about, the first mate calls out commands directing each member on the task at hand. He was still not sure why the emperor had ordered him taken, shackled like a common criminal, and thrown into the depths of this sailing ships hold. But he’s not alone, as there are others chained together with him. Most do not speak. Some cry while others just sleep. Sleep seems like a good way to pass the time, for he was told the journey will be long until reaching the land of his ancestors. He knows he has abilities and gifts superior to others. One of the gods visited with him many times during his childhood. Clamoring to his feet he follows Sir Isaacs’s orders.
As he climbed the old oak ladder, imagining how many souls have stepped on these rungs, thinking what sights did they see once they were deck side? As he rose through the hatch, the ship was only a few thousand feet from the port. As they slowly sailed up the river Lum toward the dock he could see the city emerging through the fog. Seeing the beautiful city filled with kindness, peace, and prosperity, he recalled the name Lumbridge. Puissantius learned all the basic skills taught by his tutors in the small village where he was raised . Fire making is the most basic of skills. With fire one can burn logs, cook foods, and smelt metals. He is here to hone his skills and to learn many others. This much he knows from the day Sir Isaac came to his parents’ home with the warrant. His parents were not really his parents of birth. He was told this by the couple after his age of ascension. He was born in Kandarin on the hour of 11 at the 43rd minute of sunrise. This was the sixteenth day of our new season. The year was 169 in the fifth age. So when you ask me when I was born I can tell you this in truth. It really means nothing for you. My origin, how I learned to measure time, everything about me… before I came to your world… is mysterious for your mind. These words have stuck in his head since the day our emperor summoned him to the imperial kingdom. And now he was here, to begin the training that will either destroy or create. In a place where the god wars left an entire region barren. Where knights of white and black armor compete to win a war. One where a balance only can exist in a juxtaposition of green and blue tears. Happiness abounds. And glorious beings of light… the light that shines in us all glistens. We are the dust of stars, rare to behold. Even rarer is true love. He thinks of her… He remembers how beautiful the rare love they once shared was. About the way best friends laughed and talk. It was once the grandest time in their lives. Amazing memories, shared as one… until the shallow pan destroyed everything. “Hey you! Give me a hand with this rope!” a deck hand shouts out to him. He grabs hold of the ropes end, lashing it to the bollard. In one quick motion lashes the hawser, through the hawser hole on the dock. Several men assist with the final tug to fasten the sailing vessel to rest.
Grabbing all his belongings and gear he walks the plank to the shore. He can smell the food being cooked in the nearby shops. And the smell of ash produced by coal from the burning fires of smelters for a blacksmith. The clang of hammers pounding against anvil producing weapons, nails and armor. Seagulls gather around on the docks. Each hoping for a small morsel as fishermen land nets from the seas harvest. The Town Crier calls the day’s most recent news. Nearby a bard sits upon a rock nestled under a grand oak tree. People gather around and find rest within the music of his lyre. In the distance, across an arch stone bridge he can see goblins marching around waiting for a challenge from new arrivals. There are fields of wheat, onion, cabbage and fences containing cattle, chickens and sheep. He can smell fear in the air, and this excites him. As he puts his belonging down on the street of cobblestone he finds a bronze dagger. Quickly he grabs it up and places it in the worn belt under his cloak. This could be useful or save his life against highwaymen. Soon he shall begin a sabbatical journey, one of leave from the providence he has known as home. The old wise man of his region told him one day of his birth. In as much his death. Yet he will not remain dead. As the gods have given him a gift of immortality. He has heard of the many creatures, races and beings of power fight for the favor of gods. Of strange creatures who hold keys and guard doors to other realms. Somehow he is the one who will decide. It seems such a cruel and meaningless place for a young man to be. He wanted only to live, marry and die as most folk. Still he hungers inside for more than simplicity. “Are you daydreaming again Puissantius.” Sir Isaac said. “Come, get you things and follow me. We must see the duke.” They walked through the opening in a tall and thick stone wall to where a fountain spilled water into a flower garden. As he passed through he heard the bells of a church ringing to his left. There was a graveyard to the rear of the cathedral. It was surrounded by an old iron fence with a gate. He thought it odd that this castle did not have a gate either. Only two large watchtowers on each side of the entrance. There are 9 cannons on top of the palace and you could hear the sounds of steel boots as they marched on the top level. Large yew doors as thick as the trees they were hewn from graced the opening leading into the castle. A large rat ran in circles near a spiral staircase. The rat was circling something on the floor. As they approached he could see it was round and shaped like a cookie that seemed to be emitting some power. He picked it up and saw it had the markings of the mind sign. This must be a Rune – a mind rune. He had basic training about these magical essence, when held near an altar containing peculiar qualities would absorb and retain magic. When used in combination with other runes the wielder could cast spells of great power. He places the object in his pack as they ascend the stairs. Looking back at the stair base the rune suddenly reappeared precisely where it was before. He felt his pack, the one he picked up was still there. They reached the second floor of the castle and he could hear the sound of a spinning wheel making wool. They walked past the room where there was someone making balls of string. At the center of the hall they entered through a large oak door to where a man dressed in fine clothing stood. “Hello Duke Horatio!” said Sir Isaac. The duke turned and greeted us. “Hail Sir Isaac! What can I do for you today? Ah this must be the young lad Sir Tiffany wrote to me about. The gifted one! Nice to meet you lad. Now I am a busy man, busy indeed! I have a kingdom to run. Lumbridge has many needs. I have many things to do. Now hurry along. Come see me when you are ready to help me with this dragon. A nasty one he is. And these HAMs they too need to be dealt with. Oh and the cook. He needs help to. So much to do! Blessed be Saradomin.”
Sir Isaac turned and motions for me to follow him. Heading back to the staircase where they climbed to the third level. “Here is a bank. Talk with the person behind the counter. Here take these 10 coins and open an account. You can also store any items you do not want to carry with you or ones of value here.” Puissantius completes the bank transaction then walks into the hall where Sir Isaac was waiting. He turned and preceded down the stairs to the first floor and continued out into the courtyard by the fountain. “Okay Puissantius. I will depart now and leave you to your own doings. Learn as much as you can and make every attempt to earn money. At some point you will be called upon by people to perform duties. Be wary of your surroundings. Should you die… and you will… you will find yourself here near this fountain. Good luck. Praise Saradomin!” And he pulled a strange blue colored square tablet, threw it on the ground and vanished. “But wait!” Puissantius said. It was too late. Puissantius stood alone in the shadows of the blue-grey walls in the courtyard, beside the fountain.
Authors Post Notes
This is a first draft. I know it is poorly written, lacking many details. Details give the reader a clearer image of the area the writer is attempting to visualize. I wanted to see how the story looks in this WP Theme. The story (my story) in now in its ninth year. I imagine I could write many books about the character and the adventures he took along this journey. There was a book written a long time ago about the game. Runescape is a vast story in itself. As of today there are 220 quest and 27 skills. As of this writing I have only completed 175 quest, 5 in-progress and 40 not yet started. Of the skills I have only mastered five. (Farming, Fletching, Cooking, Firemaking, Thieving) A player has mastered a skill once you reach level 99. At level 99 a player can purchase a Master Cape from the NPC who is that skills master for 100,000 coins. Once you have more than one 99 skill all master capes become “trimmed” indicating to other players in game you have more than one 99 skill. One will need to gain a total of 13, 034,431 XP (experience) in any skill to reach level 99 with the exception of Dungeoneering which tops out at 120. At level 120 a player will need 104 million XP. The total XP for any skill is 200 million XP. Currently I have 122,999,335 TOTAL XP distributed among all skills. But there is about 5,500,000,000 XP total for all skills combined. My worldwide rank is 183,063 out of 245,153,000 accounts.
In-Game Screenshots Gallery
http://photos.windowscollective.net/GalleryFilmstrip.aspx?gallery=742602
RuneScape Online Game
A free to play MMORPG
My Adventurers Log
http://services.runescape.com/m=adventurers-log/profile?searchName=puissant+one
Swim Home With The Sorrow
Placing all your faith in the virtual world keeps you from real world opportunities.
Fly-fish drifts on the northern wind.
Goldfish basks in the western sun.
From southward seas the catfish cries.
From the east the hammerheads drum.
The sailors on the dock heard my song.
And I could see the adoration on their faces as I drank it all in.
But then they stepped into the sea.
None of the men made an attempt to swim, and they drowned.
I lifted the dead bodies back onto the land.
I could barely swim home with the sorrow.
My sisters taunted me.
Even the town changed its name.
Hattie Hormel.
As it reminded me of what I had done.
I knew I should have mourned those men.
Because I AM the virtual sea.
Acoustical Candy
Pardon Me ~~ (If this song sucks don’t blame me blame her)
