Let's Play Ultima Underworld 2: World 6 Pits Of Carnage! 1/2

[someone else]

Garg change channel.

And stay away from my drink cabinet!

Oh, Dupre show on now.

 

[someone else]

Part 4: World 2 - Killorn Keep.

Now with animated gifs & 30% less references.

The Avatar enters the second gem facet. I hope this is a hostile world full of combat and little talking!

Prepare to be disappointed.

I'll do some summarising. A little.

I emerge in some sort of castle and was immediately halted by a soldier.

Listen to Ultima Underworld 2 music "Killorn keep", in midi for those masochist:
http://www.bootstrike.com/Uw2/playmidi.html?file=killornkeep.mid&title=Killorn Keep

Certainly one of the most memorable tune ever composed. Everyone who played UW2 will recognise this piece.
Not so easy to find this song on the Internet, I wonder why?

For some reason, the portraits in this world are very popular as avatars.

I am a traveler.

Then thou shouldst speak to Mystell at once, stranger. Be prepared to inform her of your name, place of origin, and current destination!

*He pauses a moment, and studies your clothing, which seems garish and out of place here.*

'Tis possible thou wilt undergo a loyalty test, as well. See that thou art well-versed in His Law!

What law is this?

Fool! Know you not the Guardian's Laws? I suggest that thou seek some education!

This place is under the Guardian's control as well? I best be careful.

Beside the soldier is a feline creature. Hello!

Eh? It talked in my mind, a telepathic cat? This is interesting.

I appear to be in a great hall, crowded with guards and merchants.
Let's start by talking with one of the guards.

I'm on a flying fortress!
A flying fortress in a Western RPG is like a cat that talks, very rare!

Where am I?

If you have any questions, suggestions, or complaints, please address them to Mystell, whose office lies to the northwest. Enjoy your stay.

I guess I should report to this Mystell after touring this hall.

One of the soldiers looks important: He's the only one with a name.
Take note of the Guardian banners hanging around.

How dost thou know my name?

'Tis a small keep, Av... er, Helicopter. Do come see me.

*He hurries away.*

Looks like trouble.

*****

There are three merchants in the hall:

Aron:

Greetings, friend! I bid thee welcome to glorious Killorn Keep, the castle which soars among the clouds. Thou dost seem to be a well-worn traveler -- I would wager that thou hast been off on adventures of late.

Thou art correct. I am on a quest to save my world!

Thou hast come to the right place then, friend. Thou will be a happier soul for having found me! Here thou may purchase many items, items which could tip the scales of success on your quest. Might thou be interested?

Aron is a good salesman but his selection is a joke.

Bishay:

Oh, how grand! Another rotten customer! I suppose you'll be wanting to buy one of my valuable pieces of merchandise, right?

There is no need to be rude! Art thou a merchant?

No, I am Mors Gotha's mother. Cretin! Of course I am a mercant! Art thou blind, or dost thou have the brain of a sponge?

The jaded Bishay has to be coaxed to sell his goods, which is decent.

Merzan:

Welcome, welcome! I am Merzan, seller of a plethora of wondrous small magicks and enchantments! I can even sell you a spell or two, if you're skill in rune magic. Perhaps I have the charm you're looking for today?

Merzan sells an inexhaustible supply of potions, identifies items and recharges wands. He is the ultimate vending machine. He also entertains special requests, but he is picky about payment:

I want to ask about forms of payment.

I'm always happy to talk about payment! I'll always take gold coins, of course. Or pearls, emeralds, rubies, or any other gems you might find. And if you've a fine golden goblet or scepter to trade, well, I wouldn't turn that away either.

Most of my gold and precious gems will go to him.

*****

With naught left to see in the hall, let's visit this Mystell who is in charge of newcomers.

I greet thee, Traveler, and welcome thee to Killorn Keep. I am Mystell. For reasons of security, I must now ask thee several questions. Art thou willing to answer them?

Aye.

To begin with, what is thy name?

1. Helicopter.
2. Helicopter, Avatar of Britannia and sworn enemy of the Guardian.
3. Abraham Lincoln.

Abraham Lincoln.

Next question. What country dost thou come from?

1. Siberia.
2. Britannia.
3. Excuse me, I am feeling ill. May I answer these questions later?

Siberia.

This is not an acceptable answer. I have never heard of this country, and it is certainly not on our trading route!

Would you believe... Codexia?

I warn thee, do not attempt to offer me false or imaginary answers. Go and consider thy options, but do not tarry overlong.

I can tarry all I want. But maybe I should chat with the locals to familiarise myself with this world.

The messhall in the north-east is occupied by three people.

Kinatara, a trader:

I hail from the land of Javra, though it has been years since I have seen that place. 'Tis beyond the Tuay Mountains, far from this desert place.

She mentions something about going to Mashan to get some spice drug that can give people visions.

Ogri, a very old servant:

I am Ogri, son of Irgo, and I serve whoever holds power in Killorn Keep, as my father did, and my father's father before him, since the first day stone was laid on stone at Killorn, these centuries past.

Who is thy leader?

The venerable Lord Thibris is king here, Mistress. He is a kind man, a great warrior in his day. He was much grieved to heard that the banner had been lost.

What banner is this?

The lost banner of Killorn! In my great-great-grandfather's time, this castle's Lord fell in battle against the demon Praecor Loth, and with him was lost the Keep's emblem, the blue eagle. If in thy travels thou shouldst hear word of it, 'twould give an old man some small joy to see it returned.

And what canst thou offer me in return?

I am old, Mistress, and my father was old before me, and he knew this castle when it still stood in the ground. He told me of many secrets in this castle, many twistings and twinings, which might prove of interest to one such as thee.

What meanest thou, "one such as thee?"

I mean only, "one such as thyself," Mistress. I am old, but I am not blind.

*Raises eyebrow*

What canst thou tell me of the keep?

The keep is an old, old place, far older than most suspect. 'Twas built by my ancestors, for purposes that have been all but forgotten in time...

Why does it fly?

It flies because the Guardian wishes it to fly, I suppose. But it must be very heavy, and he who lifts it so very, very old, and tired...

Who lifts it?

I.. cannot tell thee that, young Mistress. I may not speak of that... Individual. Perhaps we should discuss something else.

The last person gets a full dialogue copy treatment:

*A drunken young man in a guard's uniform hails you loudly.*

Ho, there, stranger! Sit and have a drink with me.

Aye, gladly! I am Helicopter.

*He cuts you off.*

Nay, tell me not thy name, stranger, and I shall withhold mine -- I would speak freely with thee, without fear of being informed upon! I serve under Relk these days, so I've had enough o' that.

You would speak treason?

Aye, treason! Why not? I've no more truck with the Eight Virtues -- Drunkenness is my One Virtue now, and I its Avatar. He's taken all the others from me!

Who has taken thy virtues?

The Guardian! The red bastard with the dental problem!

Th'way I figure it, what's a virtue when it's made a law? Obedience, 's all it is! 'Course obedience is the third virtue anyway, so whassit matter?

What are the rest of the virtues?

The Guardian's virtues, of which I am clearly a living embodiment, are: Sobriety, punctuality, obedience, vigilance, conformity, efficiency, silence, and diligence! Bit of a colorless crew, eh?

Lord British's virtues, of which the Avatar is clearly a living embodiment, are: Honesty, compassion, valor, justice, sacrifice, honour, spirituality and humility.

I prefer drunkenness.

I shall teach thee the reason why I drink. 'Tis a long tale -- wouldst thou hear it?

Aye, tell me.

To make my point, I'll have to say my name: Lobar! Know it?

(Honesty) Aye, methinks I heard it once.

I should expect so!

I won the Empire's dueling competition for four years straight. Remember me now? This was five years ago. I was 20 years old, the talk of the capitol! They called me "the Young Mors Gotha." God, I was fast, then!

Who is Mors Gotha?

The Guardian's pet killer. Met her once, long time ago, even beat her once in a sparring match! Didn't care for her much, but she could handle a blade!

Tell me more of thy story.

I started getting the "inner voice," the one they say comes to favored servants of the Guardian. you know it? He wanted me to kill people for him. I dunno why -- removing dissidents, I guess, or maybe just to show off that he had an unbeatable fencer in his pocket.

This guy is so good with the blade that each training session with him will give you an extra skill point.

I have heard of this voice.

It turns out he can do more than talk -- made it rough for me for a while. Still does, when I'm sober -- drinking's the only thing that holds him off! If I own one thing in the world, it's my sword arm. I'm the best there is, and I worked to get that way, and I'll be damned if that Red Bastard will make me his toy.

I understand thy sentiments.

Dost thou? 'Tis rare that I find one who understands the worth of such things, particularly since I've been exiled to this backwater! May we, then, be friends?

Of course. Please tell me of this keep.

A stranger such as thyself must be wary of Mystell! If thou hast no good reason to be aboard, she will almost certainly suspect thee as a spy. She already has a campaign going against that stuck-up mage Altara!

Wandering around, I came across the throne room, say the layout of this fortress is familiar. It's just like Lord British's Castle!

The throne room is simliar to Lord British's. Even the ruler's name, Lord Thibris is an anagram of Lord British.

Do they look similar?

What sort of life is it, serving the Guardian?

'Tis fabulous -- I remember in the final days of the Praecor Loth campaign, he came to us, freezing in our camp on the tundra, and gave us a wonderful display of magical fireworks! Two thirds of us came back with frostbite, but I tell thee, there was not a word of complaint!

There's nothing like lifting the men's morale with fireworks! How I wish I was there.

Well, if you like fireworks and the Guardian so much, maybe you should play EA's Boom Boom Rocket™.

Tell me of the Loth Campaign.

I never tire of this story! Though 'twas centuries ago, I still remember it as my greatest triumph!

Centuries ago? How is this possible?

Well, yes, er, it seems that on different worlds time runs differently... or perhaps I just age differently, or something. I never quite understood.

Who was Praecor Loth?

Oh, some barbarian king or other. 'Tis of no import now! The Guardian offered him peace, but he would not take it, and so I was sent to bring him down. 'Twas in the early battles there that the Killorn Banner was lost. Such a pity!

So he lost the banner in a game of capture the flag?

Didst thou succeed in thy campaign?

I drove him a thousand miles north of his capital, 'til he died and was buried in a great tomb carved into a cliff. His greatest treasure still rests there, a horn of extraordinary power!

What was special about the horn?

Why the sound that came from it could shatter buildings! None could wield it but Praecor Loth himself, but the Guardian hoped to harness its power somehow.

Why did you not just dig it out?

Well, you know, we tried that, but they built the tomb very cleverly. There was supposed to be a map, divided in eight parts, hidden in the tomb, and it showed the way through a deadly maze. Most of my servants wouldn't enter the tomb at all, though. They feared the dead, the superstitious fools!

It must have been a great victory.

Ah, yes.

*He wipes a tear eye.*

'Twas a great day for the Guardian, then. Such a speech he gave!

I guess I will be paying this Tomb a visit sometime in the future.
But let me return to exploring the keep.

South-west is the barracks. As the game progresses, more and more soldiers will arrive. This is what they will say:

This is a fine fighting outfit!

You bet yer ass it is! Fightin' men don't come any tougher 'n meaner 'n us. When we land this thing, it's gonna be a slaughter!

Art thou truly that formidable?

Mors Gotha don't pick her soldiers for their looks, pal. We're leadin' this invasion 'cause we've never lost a battle. This one comin' up ain't gonna change that, neither!

Who is Mors Gotha?

I shoulda known you were a jester! Who is Mors Gotha? You'd better crawl back to the rock you've been under and stay outta the way!

What will you tell me about the invasion?

I heard that they bottled up the enemy inside their fortress, but that they got some sort of hero-type in there with 'em.

A hero? I wonder who that is.

Still, with Gotha and the Guardian on our side, I ain't worried.

Canst thou tell me more?

The defenders are 100% sealed up in there, some kinda blackrock casting. Some guys are sayin' we'll just be goin' in and cleanin' up.

So Lord British is not just facing a water crisis, but an invasion as well! Sounds familiar...

A human invasion? How dull, try demons, space aliens or at the very least, mutants.

And I hope the Avatar doesn't do anything to reduce the invasion time limit.

Canst thou tell me more?

I heard they've found a way in through the basement. We'll be going in as soon as the rest of the troops get here.

Canst thou think of anything else?

Nothing like working under Gotha. Like voodoo, her touch. 'Less yer in the forward units, o'course -- she does like to have a few rookies in front to spring the traps.

I'm hearing a little too much of this Mors Gotha.

Canst thou tell me more?

I hear they hadda herd in a few extra -- whaddayacallem -- brain creatures to hold up the extra weight in the castle.

Loose lips sink ships. Hmm I wonder if I can sink this ship.

*****

Sufficiently oriented with this world, I can now answer Mystell's questions.

Well, Abraham, let us resume the questioning.

What country dost thou come from?

The correct reply now appears.

Jarva, beyond the Tuay Mountains.

Javra. I see.

*She peers at you suspiciously.*

What country art thou bound for?

1. Montana.
2. Foobaria.
3. Excuse me, I am feeling a little ill. May I answer these questions later?
4. Mashan, for trading purposes.

Mashan, for trading purposes.

What, then, is the seventh of the Eight Virtues?

1. Spirituality.
2. Excuse me, I must go meditate on the profoundity of this question.
3. Honour.
4. Silence.

Silence.

Excellent! I see that thou hast studied well the way of our master. Now that I have ascertained thy loyalty, I have a proposition to make to you. I have need of one who is a stranger to the keep, one who I can trust with some private information. Wilt thou hear it?

Aye.

It is a delicate matter. I would like you to speak with a resident of the keep, the sorceress Altara, and sound her out on certain topics -- I have reason to suspect she is an enemy of our Guardian. If thou canst find proof, I shall give thee thirty gold pieces.

Thirty gold? Thou will have to do better than that.

What is in it for thee?

Altara once seemed destined for the Guardian's high Council -- why has she come to a backwater like Killorn? Her reasons for being here don't add up at all! If I could uncover proof of her treachery, I might receive a promotion, perhaps even a position in the capitol.

I shall do it. Where is the money?

Money will come with proof, Abraham. Now go, it is not well we should be seen together.

This sorceress... wait a minute, didn't Bishop say something about a flying fortress?

For the moment, I shall say only that thou shouldst look for a sorcerous lady in a fortress high above a desert.

And Altara is in the room right beside Mystell:

Mystell has mentioned you.

I see. And art thou a friend of hers?

Nay, she bears thee ill will.

Thou'rt a good judge of character, Helicopter, for I am well aware that she doth enjoy spying on me, and on poor drunken Lobar, too. Now what may I do for thee?

I am new to this world, and need assistance.

Another...

*She snatches a blue lens from a nearby table, holds it before her eye, and gasps.*

'Tis true! Why have you come here, stranger?

I wander the planes, searching for a way to save my people, whom the Guardian has imprisoned.

Hush! Mystell is ever spying upon me -- doubtless, she approached thee on the subject, too!

*She runs to close the outer door.*

The door does actually close. Which is funny if you are talking from outside her room.

Wilt thou help me?

However I can. I am no friend to the Guardian, either. I once sought to organize an independent political movement, a group that would promote causes not specifically authorized by the High Council.

That was foolish!

*She nods*

I admit it. The council's policy debates are a sham, Helicopter. The Guardian brooks no dissent among his subjects. We were betrayed, and those of us too valuable to kill were exiled to the four corners of the empire. Thus I was posted to this desert keep, ever observed by Mystell and her craven ilk.

I would like to help thee oppose the Guardian.

Perhaps. But first, I would learn of thine own quarrel with the Titan.

*You tell her of Britannia's plight.*
*She retrieves a dagger from a locked chest.*

You understand, 'tis a great risk for one in my position to trust thee with this. Listen well -- I was a long while in the Guardian's service, and I know his methods. There will be an observer in thy castle, some magical creature lurking in the sewers and tunnels there.

Where will it be?

By now it has borrowed deep into the rock foundation of thy fortress, its ear to the stone, listening to all that transpire there. It will stay near a body of water, and surround itself with walls of fire.

I shall slay it.

Keep this dagger with thee! This shall bring thee through any fire-walls it puts in thy path. And though other weapons may wound it, only this blade can deal the killing blow.

*she smiles.*

Thank thee, Helicopter. We shall make a good team in this.

If you recall, there was a "lavafall" on the second level of the sewers:

Which now has an opening.

Entering it I find an imp, the "listener": And easily slay it.

That was fast.

Narrative fast travel. The game would do better if it has fast travel.

I return to report:

The Listener is dead.

So thou hast disposed of the Guardian's watcher? Then thou art trustworthy after all! 'Tis well, as I have need of an ally who can travel the planes.

I am offended that thou dost not trust me.

Past experience has shown me that few people, if any, are trustworthy. My previous naiveté proved most... expensive.

*She shows you a black pearl.*

I have almost succeeded in placing a powerful enchantment in this pearl. It lacks only two rare elements, the egg of a dread spider (got it), and an amethyst rod. Once complete, it will become a powerful weapon in this fight.

Go to! I am not here to be thy errand-runner.

Art thou sure? Thy world shall benefit more than mine, if this can be completed.

I shall complete the quest.

Here, take the pearl with thee, and bring it back with the components. Before you go -- I have noticed that thou dost practice runic magic. Wilt thou take these with thee, Helicopter, as my gift?

All three runes she gave me are new, I still lack a good ranged attack spell.

*****

Instead of killing the Listener, I could betray Altara and give the dagger to Mystell. The dagger will turn out to be fake and Altara will distrust me. The only way to win back her favour is to kill Relk, the captain of the Guards.

*****

Relk asked me to visit him in his quarters, and I shall do so now.

On the way, I came across the stables where the intelligent felines live. Their leader is called Blackie.

Yes, that is correct.

We have need of a... helper. But I see thou dost know nothing of our situation. The humans named us "Trilkhai." They do not know that we able to communicate in this way.

Why don't you tell them?

They might become afraid of us, and destroy us. It is safer that they think of us as animals.

Then why entrust thy secret to me?

I see that thou hast virtues that will prevent thee from betraying us. We must risk this, as many of us have need of a human agent in the keep.

I will help thee where I can.

Human, I am the oldest, and I have heard many stories of our race's past, wild tales of Trilkhai who flew among the stars, and hurled fire at the humans. I would learn if thou hast met any being who has knowledge of this.

I have heard of none, but I shall look.

If thou couldst learn the truth, it would be of great service to our race!

You are one who flew among the stars, do you know of any spacecats shooting fire at humans?

Hmm, sorry I haven't a clue. Perhaps it's just another obscure pop culture reference.

Another Trilkhai wants the Avatar to FedEx water for her, good thing I imported one from The Prison Tower. She offered me this bit of advice.

I thank thee, Helicopter! Now I must tell you something. I heard Relk thinking about thee! He doesn't like thee at all, and he made some kind of trap to catch thee in, if you go to look for a black jewel he put in the oubliette! I don't understand what it means, but thou shouldst stay away from him!

I'm not going to start taking advice from a talking cat am I?

Whilst there I talk to the imbecile stablehand:

Name's Chirl. I keep the stables here.

Chirl? Doesn't that rhyme with "girl?"

Hey!! That's not funny!

Where are all the horses?

Horses? What do you mean? This is where we keep the Trilkhai. The Trilks are good for carryin' stuff, 'n' they're smart. Guardian likes us to breed 'em. They say he takes shipments of 'em for himself, dunno why.

How smart are they?

Just animals, y'know. What's the big deal?

Don't you know that they're intelligent telepaths?

*A voice speaks in your mind: Beware, human, lest we are found out.*

Wuddayoo, whacked? Giddaddaheeya!

*The voice says: We are fortunate with this one.*

The game doesn't allow me to expose the Trilkhai.

Now I'm at Relk's personal quarters, I open up my Runebag and prepare the spell Cause fear with the new runes Altara gave me.

*A well-groomed young man in armor greets you.*

Welcome to my quarters, Helicopter... or should I say, "Avatar?"

1. How dost thou know who I am?
2. Thou wert seen carrying a black jewel. Canst thou tell me about it?

Thou wert seen carrying a black jewel. Canst thou tell me about it?

Uh... what does thou mean, a black gem?

Someone saw you carrying a black gem. Now where did you get it?

Oh, THAT gem! 'Twas nothing, merely a gift from my... sister.

Then why did you throw it in the oubliette?

How dost thou know these thing! Did Nocticle Sartre send thee? 'Twas a top secret assignment from the Guardian himself!

Nocticle Sartre? What is that?

Had I known thou wert so well-informed, I would have killed thee long before this. 'Tis almost as if thou didst spy on me, there in the engine room. Come, we shall settle the matter now.

*He draws his sword.*

Round 1:
Relk slashes the Avatar but her mail leggings absorbs the blow.
The Avatar casts cause fear.

Round 2:
Relk flees in terror!
The Avatar prepares the spell bleeding.

Rounds 3-6:
Relk tries to fight back but dies from multiple bleedings.

Winner is the Avatar!

But I wonder how the people of Killorn Keep will react to the killing.

Mystell:

Lobar:

I heard of thy duel with Relk, my friend -- he was never well-liked here, and was ever quick to strike the first blow. I believe thou needst not fear reprisal.

'Twas but a training accident, I swear!

Think nothing of it! Thou hast earned me a promotion, and eased the lives of many people here!

It's okay, the Avatar only kills bad people.

Time to rest, but I had another disturbing dream from the Guardian. This time fully voiced:

Greetings Avatar! My associates and I are embarking on a little vacation. I hear the beaches on Cove are nice.

As it is said on your world, wish thou wert here. *evil laughter*

The Red Muppet will be updating me on the progress of the invasion of Britannia.

Remember Lord British's castle?

Killorn Keep is similar.
The funny thing about the auto mapping is that it reveals secret passages, like the one in the bottom south-west.

On the map, I'm at the stairs leading to the cellar, ready to go down.

Killorn Keeps' cellar is a lot more dangerous than Lord British's. It has hostile giant rats and giant spiders.
The dungeon is small, the only things of interest are an ancient key and the oubliette.

The oubliette. ^
Nasty drop. There are two headless down there.
I can magically unlock the portcullis and drift down with the spell feather fall.

But nearby in a room, there is actually a secret door leading down to the oubliette.
Right in front, can you see it? It is easier to see ingame.

The secret door opens to a tunnel leading to the bottom of the oubliette. At the top you can see the first opening I looked down from.
The floor at the end looks very suspicious.

There....Are...FOUR....Lights!

Strange... I see five. Including the Avatar's lantern of course.

Indeed... there are four candles, it's the old Four Magic Candles on the Reddish Square Trap!
I can disarm it by removing the four candles.
But it will be more fun if I walk into the trap instead.

The trap teleports me into the deathtrap dungeon. The skull is just a decor, but I must prepare for:

The Crushing Floors of Despair!

Gauntlets of deadly fireballs! Complete with a moving platform of doom!
With dials and switches which I must press ere I get crushed by the ceiling!

Vicious Imps shoot their magic arrows while I traverse the frictionless floors!

And finally, jump into the exit, a pit of lavaflames!

If that isn't enough, after escaping the deathtrap, I land amidst the two headless.

(Insert headless pun here)

With the headless defeated, I picked up the blackrock gem. On the ground is a longsword of major accuracy as well.
I can now return to Nystul to treat the gem.
But one more thing:

Remember the automap revealed a secret passage on the south-west side of the keep? Let's open it.
I follow a secret passage down the stairs.

It leads to a tunnel with a guard.

The Guardian himself? Who is this guy?

Step aside -- I'm under orders from the Guardian.

Mark me! No one passes here, ever -- if thou wert meant to pass, the Guardian himself would have contacted me. Now, begone.

Nay, I shall pass here by force, then.

I warn thee again -- I am more than I seem, and it will go ill with thee if thou dost fight me.

Silence, dog. Your only purpose is to die by my hand.

Nevertheless -- you must let me pass, or I shall force my way through.

So be it!

:epic combat music plays:

I decide to engage in manly hand-to-hand combat.

Rounds 1-4:
Avatar barely scratches the guard with her jeweled sword of major damage.

The guard, contrastingly, trashes the Avatar.

Rounds 5-8:
The Avatar, remembering she is a mage and not a warrior, with a few castings of bleedings kills the guard.

The guard transform into a daemon! Its true form!

*Gasps*

:even more epic combat music plays:

*CRITICAL HIT*

The Avatar draws on her remaining magicks and hurls it at the daemon.

Phew! That was a close one! Nearly expended all my mana.

Now for the door he is guarding. The ancient key I picked up in the cellar opens the door.

Is this the engine room? Two weird creatures hover in the room. Are they what is keeping the keep afloat?

They do not talk.
I wonder what will happen if I kill them?

These guys have powerful psionic attacks, but this one have no chance with my surprise attack at close range.
The ground starts shaking and I quickly ran back up the stairs.

The guards are panicking!
Killorn Keep is falling down!

Not gonna die here! The exit is just ahead.

I leap through the blackrock portal just before the keep collapses.
I must be only one who can use the portal.

Returning through the portal, this is what I see.

*Achievement unlocked: Kill everyone in Killorn Keep.*

I've killed a couple of important NPCs, as well as interfering with several future events. Honesty I'm not sure how the game and quests will turn out.

I refuse to let the game derail like this. *force reload*

Hey!

 

[someone else]

Part 4.5: World 2 - Killorn Keep. Return To Castle British.

Whoa I hit the post limit and had to split this in twain. It didn't happen during preview.

Instead of knocking down the keep, I return to Lord British's castle.

I submit my report to Miranda as usual.

What is the current situation in the castle?

To be frank, Avatar, I am most concerned about our water supply! Even if we shut off the fountain in the courtyard, we are still going to have to conserve as much as possible.

How are the castle personnel doing?

Our people are doing all right, so far. Come to think of it, Feridwyn seems to have something on his mind, and Sir Dupre has been so restless lately! He is always drawing his sword and sheathing it again! Perhaps thou couldst find some way for him to help thee.

No thanks, I don't want to play with his sword.

So I talk to Feridwyn instead:

Avatar, canst we not do something about Patterson? He is without doubt the most inane fellow I have encountered in my life!

Does he ask inane questions?

Has he been bothering thee?

He hath been a constant pest, and methinks not only to me. Many others have been complaining about him. If his behavior continues, I shall have stern words for the man.

Thine opinions are of little value to me.

*Feridwyn graces you with a cold smile*

The feeling is mutual, Avatar.

The inane Mayor Patterson:

'Tis disheartening, Avatar -- I try to help the others out, but it never seems to come out right! Now it seems like the whole castle is avoiding me. 'Tis strange to feel so alone, when trapped in a castle with a score of other humans.

Really, I must be going!

Well, I guess I shall see thee later...

Hopefully Lord British has decided what to do with the revolting (bleh!) servants.

Good! I can tell Nanna the news.

Excellent! I can now get Nystul to do his mojo on the blackrock gem I picked from Killorn Keep.

Nystul also has some information on the blackrock gem:

So, the small gem thou didst find merged with the larger! This bodes well for us!

Why did the gems merge?

The Guardian is a careless spellcaster! The tiny gem in the in the other world is an echo in the ether just like the Gateway Gem, an echo of the first, enormous sphere he placed on our world.

How can this help us?

As these echoes come together, they begin to build into a shout, which may bring this gem tumbling right down around our ears!

My goal is to visit all the worlds and collect the blackrock gems. But is that sufficient to bring down the prison?

I return to the Gateway Gem, and prepare to enter the third world.

Preview:

And prepare for combat. Lots of it.

Well bravo! I'm so excited, I think I'll change to my battledress.

Less text for me to copy as well.



Current stats:
Level 10
Offensive spells:
Level 1 - Magic arrow
Level 2 - Cause fear
Level 3 - Bleeding
Level 5 - Smite Undead

 

[RK47]

Bravo.

 

[Brother None]

That banner convo with Orgi looked weird until I realised the lord of the castle is centuries old. Still, it's kinda weird how he brings it up.

Oh well. Writing.

Bravo! plz more Blackadder refs, plz.

 

[Silellak]

Yay! Fantastic LP is fantastic.

Perhaps it's just another obscure pop culture reference.

I don't think this is really a spoiler, but I'll go ahead and tag it as such anyway:

Spoiler

Just in case you didn't know, the "Trilkhai" are a reference to the "Kilrathi" race from Wing Commander (note that "Trilkhai" is an anagram of "Kilrathi"), and I guess the implication is that the "Trilkhai" are the future of the Kilrathi race, though somehow I doubt this is canon or anything.

This isn't the first Ultima reference to the Kilrathi - there's a Kilrathi ship in Ultima 7 (complete with the Kilrathi musical cue from WC2) and the farmer nearby mentions a cat-like creature who wanted someone to "Kill Wrathy".

Apparently it's even been inferred that the "alien ships" you go into space to fight in Ultima 1 are actually Kilrathi, and I guess there's no reason that couldn't be the case. It makes about as much sense as anything else in Ultima 1.

 

[Unkillable Cat]

I'm not going to start taking advice from a talking cat am I?

Ahem.

<-----

Thanks for keeping this up. I'm getting a huge nostalgia trip by reading this.

Another method to solve the "oubliette" trap is to use Telekinesis to simply grab the gem from behind the Obvious Trap of Obviousness. You'd propably need a stronger light source to see it properly, though.

 

[Andhaira]

You're making good progress with the LP mightiest of mouses. How do you find the playing as a mage compared to a previous play where you played a warrior? Easier, harder, the same etc?

 

[someone else]

How do you find the playing as a mage compared to a previous play where you played a warrior? Easier, harder, the same etc?

Mage is slightly easier if I pick up the chain cowl of Valor. I can easily kill moderately difficult creatures like headless with weapons wearing it. Another advantage is starting with the Mani (life) rune, though a paladin can start with it if magic skill is not below other skills.


As for the Trilkhai, near the end of the game, you can complete Blackie's quest which gives more info on their race IIRC.


I think I can squeeze 2 updates in one page but feel free to comment so it will be easier to push to the next page.

 

[Azira]

Love this LP. I just wish I'd played it myself when it was released.

 

[SCO]

Just play it now. I just played it myself a year ago. Still very playable.

 

[Azira]

Yeah, you're right. I mean, I've been a fan of the Ultima and Wing Commander series both, from when I played them the first time (Ultima VI and the original Wing Commander), so I should love this one.

I just remember being put off by what I considered "Beholder's Eye"ish graphics. Gotten over that now though.

This game available for purchase without blowing the budget?

 

[Unkillable Cat]

I seem to recall some dual-pack of UW1 and UW2 that usually didn't cost much. Mind you, this was on eBay.

 

[GarfunkeL]

Big surprise that they inserted Kilrathi and other Wing Commander easter eggs in there :D

 

[jefklak]

Really awesome stuff you've got goin' on here, Mighty Mouse.
I really love this, keep it up please!

I'll try to do something similar with M&MVI if I have some time left. Someday.

 

[someone else]

Thanks, next update will be somewhat late.


I was wondering who the avatar looks like.
Yes someone from Star Trek.

Uhura?

 

[someone else]

Tally-ho! Barf! Barf! New uniforms for the the battles ahead eh? Private Baldrick?

Nice to see the Lieutenant. But the Captain's still not here yet.

Still changing eh? Those Starfleet uniforms are sure hard to get into. Oh well, while we wait, let me read you a parable from The Book of Fellowship, by Batlin of Britain of Ultima VII.


The Old Man and the Bandits.

On the road leading out of Britain, I met a man bent with age, but still possessed of keen wit. As we walked he shared with me his tale, and I in turn shall share it with thee.

During a stroll through the woods one day, this man was kidnapped by a group of vicious bandits. The poor man had just left his nephew’s family and had no one else in the world. Woe to them who have been kidnapped when they have no one to pay their ransom! The bandits soon began to loathe their captive and did make plans to kill him.

One wanted to hang him, while another wanted to stab him. Still another wanted to burn him at the stake while yet a fourth wanted to tie rocks about his waist and throw him in the river. So angry did they wax in their disagreement over what manner of violence to use, that they did break into an awful, bloody row.

And so it was that this old man did escape from the bandits, who were distracted with their brawling. Upon noticing their victim was gone, they continued to fight, this time over whose fault it had been, until all of them lay dead, murdered by each others’ hand.

This old man was later reunited with his nephew’s family and all were joyous of it. For as he had learned, Unity is essential for survival, and unlike those reckless bandits, he still wished to live for a good many years yet.

This story reminds me of a Hobbit and some trolls.

The Fellowship doesn't sound all that bad actually.

 

[someone else]

Part 5: World 3 - Ice Cavern.

Now totally and utterly bonkeroonie.

The Captain still isn't back.

Well, we don't need his dumb developer comments, let's start this show without him!

Hurray!

But this LP is getting rather boring, I mean, LPs that just say "I went here" and "I did this" and "yay, I'm a evil dick" wear thin after a while.

Perhaps we should introduce Charlie Chaplin as a special guest commentator.

Do not fear Lieutenant for I have a cunning plan to make this LP more interesting.

Oh spiffing! Let's hear it Private.

Instead of copying actual speech from the game characters. The Avatar, npcs as well as famous real or fictional persons such as the Lieutenant and myself will improvise and say made-up funny, witty (at least to the author) and hackneyed dialogues that have absolutely no relevance with the game.

Do you mean we should turn this into a fanfiction?

Yes.

Hurray! What a brilliant idea! Let's see now, the Captain still isn't back so let's give him a surprise when he returns.


***Five minutes later***

We are going to do what?

Something lively and interesting for once, a fanfiction starship LP! Here are the roles Baldrick and I came up with:

The Avatar will be the Communications Officer.

Well finally a decent looking Avatar.

Counselor Tory will be the ship's Counselor.

Suddenly wearing red doesn't seem like such a good idea.

We need some sort of annoying Mary Sue character for the Navigator.

Lord British will be Ensign British!

And I have real life space experience too!

Shut up Ensign. We are not going into space.

I shall be the Chief Medical Officer.

I'm a doctor not a director!

Just testing! :D

And Private Baldrick will be our Tactical Officer.

Does that mean I get to go to the Officers' Mess?

I prefer if you keep your mess private Baldrick.

Is it wise to let him handle our weapons and defences?

Well, you were able to defeat the gazers with his cunning battle plan didn't you?

Of course.

As the Captain is not aboard, and I am the most senior officer, I shall take command of this vessel.

Right, stand by your beds! And prepare to explore strange new worlds, seek out new life and new civilisations, to boldly go where no LP has gone before!

I see we are going with the original series cheesy special effects. Can't wait to see how bad this fanfiction will turn out to be.

Worst fanfiction ever begins!

Jumpingtheshark log 1: We have arrived at world 3, a land of ice and snow in search of the Guardian's blackrock gem. The walls give off a natural light, thus there is no need for the lantern.

Ensign British, heading south, walk factor 2.

Aye Aye Sir.

Sir, our sensors thingy indicate a small vessel on intercept course and closing fast.

On screen.

Hail them, all channels, all frequencies.

No response sir.

The wormy thingy is picking up speed sir!

Shields up, red alert! Counselor?

I am sensing great hostility and hunger.

It wants us for breakfast! Recommend firing one of those Proton Torpedoes sir!

Photon Torpedoes Private. This isn't Star Wars.

Yes, let's give them some of our Britannia spunk. Fire Photon Torpedoes, maximum yield, full spread, brightest bloom.

…

You heard the Lieutenant, fire the torpedoes.

Oh that's my cue.

*Grabs Baldrick's collar*

I'm in charge here Baldrick! I gave you an order and you damn well gonna follow it!

I can't! I don't understand what you are talking about!

Just press “f” Private, I remap the keys on dosbox.

This button?

Direct hit... no visible damage.

He's dead Jim.

What is going on around here? Why are you facepalming? Only I can do that! Stop this foolishness at once!

Tally-ho Cappy! Just preparing a little surprise for you. We were expecting you to be wearing your uniform though. You are even more heavily armoured than the Avatar!

Have you forgotten the Prime Directive Lieutenant?

Is it to make more pop culture references than Fallout 2 and to turn this into a fanfiction LP?

No, it's to make more pop culture references than Fallout 2 and not to turn this into a fanfiction LP.

So I got it half right then.

Do not meddle with Ultima Underworld II, the game will stand or fall on its own feet.

I'm so sorry Avatar, please continue, we will only observe and not interfere.

Alrighty then, let's end this. Private Baldrick, initiate self-destruct sequence.

Make it stop.

Worst fanfiction ever ends.

*Sigh* Back to this Avatar.

Listen to Ultima Underworld 2 "Ice Cavern":

http://beemp3.com/download.php?file=4536262&song=Ice+Cavern

I'm near the entrance and I see a trail of blood leading into the darkness.
Perhaps the new spell night vision will let me see further.

Indeed I can see further, I start following the trail.

Black & white vision? How quaint. I prefer Night-eye:

Blue is the new bee and double-u.

The trail of blood leads to some skeletons.

Who on Earth will want to play a game in black & white? Dispelling night vision.
One skeleton is approaching me. A good opportunity to try my new 5th level spell, smite undead with the runes AN CORP MANI or "Negate Death Life".

The spell means instant death for skeletons.

I took out the rest with my sword. Easy fight.

The skeletons were carrying backpacks. Were they the ones who built the camp? Did some curse cause them to rise from the dead?
I examine their belongings and find a journal that shed some light on who they were and where I am:

The journal says:
We have found the entrance to the cave which we believe to contain the lost city of Anodunos, long frozen by our first ice age. Presently, we are searching for a place to camp which is safe from the many hostile ice creatures here.

They also have a WIS rune, which means "Knowledge". This allows me to cast name enchantment to identify items.

They also have a map with some notes which I copy onto my own map.
Vicious snowball-throwing yeti? Someone brought the lulz.

With the map, exploration of the upper caverns is made so much easier.
But this place has natural hazards as well.

Cracked ice ground can collapse under me, dumping me into freezing water.
If you are dumb, you can lure monsters over cracked ice and try to drown your XP.

Some icy surfaces are frictionless and I can only slide uncontrollably until I reach ground with more traction.

Charlie Chaplin? What on Earth is the projectionist doing?

Sorry sir, my fault, wrong reel.

Never mind that, looks like I have some company:

Look Lieutenant, a cute kitty, I wonder if it wants to play.

Maybe it's one of those telepathic cats?

Ferocious feline!

Look, the kitty can do backflips. This should go on YouTube.

Wait...

Listen... do you smell something?

There's the stinker! One of those snowball-throwing yeti the explorers wrote about.

It is a fiercely territorial creature.

Look at the way he beats his chest.

My mother told about these yetis, "don't let them catch you," she said, they'll have their wicked way with anything of woman-born.

I'll be extra careful. But you should be safe from them.

The snowballs the yeti throws can be picked up and thrown back.

Grab those snowballs Baldrick, it's a snowball fight!

After scoring several hits on the yeti, it still doesn't look hurt. I shall venture closer and cast study monster with the runes WIS MANI or "Knowledge Life".

The spell Study Monster give us the current vitality, special attacks and resistance of a creature.
The yeti starts with 50 vitality, this shows that my snowballs have little effect.

I shall attack it with my sword.

I'm here to kick ass and chew bubble gum and –- erm.

What the devil's wrong with the projectionist?

I thought you might enjoy something from your past sir.

I don't remember any laser swords or yeti, you must have mistaken me for James T. Kirk.

Eh, I prefer the previous clip.

Finish him!
His treasures are all mine, I can even pick up and keep the snowballs he threw.

Look Lieutenant, I got balls of snow.

So do I Private, 'tis freezing in here.

Near the yeti are the stairs down to the second level.

Aren't you going down?

No, I shall return to the Prison Tower and identify my collection of arms, armour, wands and potions using the new found WIS rune.

I exit the Ice Cavern through the blackrock portal.

And find that the sewers in Britannia has started to freeze.
The situation is getting worse the further I venture into the gems.

With the WIS rune, I identify all my items and trade the unwanted ones for gold in Killorn Keep.

I have quite a number of wands but most of them have useless spells.

To make room for more loot I decided to switch to leather armour.
With a leather vest of additional protection.
Leather leggings of stealth.
Chain cowl of valor.
Plus a heavy tower shield.
I swap my jeweled sword of major damage for a long sword of major accuracy. My weak combat skills makes to-hit more important.
And I equip the Guardian signet ring I took from Relk's corpse in Killorn Keep.

I took two wands, a wand of lightning with 5 charges and a wand of deadly seeker with 12 charges. Deadly seekers deal little damage but they have homing capabilities.

This frees up 30 stones for plunder.

Descending to the second level of the Ice Cavern, I spot a side passage untouched by frost.

A man is at the end of the passage.

Hello there, I am Helicopter.

I am Mokpo the Mad, as if that mattered, for thou art just another shade, another pointless vision.

Why don't you believe in what you see?

As if I needed a reason! But I have proof, if you want it -- this solid-seeming stone is all a facade -- a mere flip of a lever, touch of a button, it changes, morphs, vanishes! Look in the maze, and thou shalt see!

What maze?

*He laughs.*

Simpleton! It's ALL maze in this shadow-world. A toy maze of sharp stones and vicious monkeys, for some mad child-god's amusement.

Hey, I'm real!

Real? You? This world, this travesty of stone and ice, dirt and cold water? This mock-up, peopled with brutal apes? Don't make me laugh!

What apes are these?

The only warm creature in all this darkness. I slew one once, caught it sleeping. The meat fed me a month, its fur warmed me 'til I lost it in a cave-in. It matters not, 'tis all illusion.

Why are the yeti hostile?

Something's stirred them up of late -- doubtless they've found some new bauble to fight each other for. Fools, to believe there is anything of value here!

Is there nothing of worth here? Is it that bad?

Not so bad? The nights I've spend here, shivering on the damp, fearing every minute to see that flash of white, the yeti running in the darkness. If I thought that were real, well...

But it IS real. I swear it!

I can see what's real! If you could see it... shining colors, fabulous beasts, vast plains of light, great pillars reaching up into the blackness. It's so wonderful -- nothing could be more real!

Why not live there then?

It never stays! Five minutes, an hour, three hours I wander there, then I return here, banished from the true world! Exiles to this... tawdry illusion. Of late the visions have become ever shorter, ever rarer. 'Tis bitter!

Instead of wandering in rags, why not try and improve thy life here? Build a fire...

Cold is God's way of telling us to BURN more Catholics!

Why bother, when the real world is so close at hand? Why play games in this illusory hell! 'Tis not worth it! I could build a fire, but the yeti would see it and kill me. 'Tis nothing but peril and frustration!

Thou art right. Tell me more of thy world.

*His eyes unfocus, and he seems to be in a trance.*

I see it before me now! An endless walkway glowing blue! I leap, and am thrown high into the air... the scene fades... now a golden maze... I scramble up on top of the walls. Now I see the goal...!

Mad as a bicycle.

Tell me more of what it is like there.

*His eyes unfocus, and he seems to be in a trance.*

Fire! A glorious, infernal city, fountains spraying blood, winged demons swoop, I battle through them, and win a deadly sceptre...

It fades, and I return here. 'Tis ever thus.

Thank thee for sharing thy world with me.

Fare thee well... that is, if such formalities can mean aught to a shadow!

I am tempted to put him out of his misery, but maybe I can find a way help him.

Here's the map, I'm west of a slippery patch of ice, it stretches into the darkness to the east.
Time for some ice skating.

Whee! Blackrock gem!

Don't worry, I can get the gem with the spells telekinesis or jump.

Now that I have the gem, I can return to the castle but I do desire to see this lost city of Anodunos.

I hop across the river to the eastern shore.

When I approach a narrow opening, a snowball narrowly missed me.

Three yetis!

The Avatar looks like she's getting into a very sticky situation.

And loving it.

These are just Great Trolls (remember Garg?) with a different colour palette. Damn budget cuts.

Fortunately these Yetis are weaker than Great Trolls, they have exactly the same stats as headless except that they have a heavily armoured head.

Today is a good day for you to die!

These Yeti live near some special mud flats. Unique to this location.

With little of interest other than mud, I travel north and arrive at a dam.

With a slope leading back up to the previous level right beside it.

The path up leads to a small chamber with a locked door and an Ice Golem guard.

The golem speaks as I draw near.

Who are you?

I am Sentinel Construct 868. My duty is to protect the controls to the dam.

Who is allowed through the door?

I am ordered to only allow the two operators of the dam controls to pass, and they may only pass together, as each operator only knows half the combination to the controls.

What is beyond the door?

Beyond lie the controls to the dam in the reservoir of Anodunos.

Anodunos?

Anodunos is the city I serve.

I must pass through this door!

You may not! Leave immediately or I will be required to use force!

YOU SHALL NOT PASS!

Pick your Arnie one-liner.

1. Hasta la vista baby.
2. Chill out, dickwad.
3. Here is Sentinel Construct 868, now Sentinel Destruct Zero.
4. You're fired.
5. Ice to see you!

3!

5!

You bastards!

Here is Sentinel Construct 868, now Sentinel Destruct Zero.

That was awful.

Hey wetpants! I'm not the one who wrote this.

The destroyed golem drops the key to the door.

An alternative solution is to just pick the door open or cast the open spell and evade the golem who cannot fit through the door.
All this fighting is tiring me out. time for a rest.
Got another dream from the Guardian:

My troops encounter thy friend the Lord Draxinusom.

I shall sent thy regards.

The Lord Draxinusom is the gargoyle flying on the right for those who don't know Ultima.

The door opens to a river and a bridge heading east.

Which doubles back across the river.

To the Dam Control Access, a column with four control panels. A switch, a chain, a button and a lever.
Yes, it is ye olde school RPG puzzle!

Near the controls are human remains with a note:

Instru...m control
Manipu...auses th...ze to chan...wo step process. To get the ke...ake sure the lever..ch and chain are all...To rea...oor, lower the...nd switch, and pres...walk through the force f...to maze...stroy this note aft...else we'll both hang.

Much of this note is smudged and unreadable.

My attempt to fill in the blanks:

Instructions for dam control.
Manipulating the controls causes the maze to change. It's a two step process. To get the key make sure the lever, switch and chain are all in the out position.
To reach the dam control door, lower the lever and switch, and press the button, walk through the force field which will teleport you to maze. Destroy this note afterwards else we'll both hang.

I push and pull the controls to configure the maze to allow me to reach the key.

Behind the Dam Control Access is the teleporter to the maze.

There are no monsters in the maze.

The key in the maze.

Exiting the maze, I reconfigure the controls to reach a door which I unlock with the key.

Inside, I toggle the floodgate controls.

Let's take a look at the map of the maze.

But before I return to the dam...

I drop down the side of this bridge.

And discover a drain.

Which leads me to a secret passage.

With a cave containing a ghost and a ring of protection.

Equip the ring.

Hai!

Returning to the dam, the open floodgates created a river which melted the snow,

opening the way to the city of Anodunos.

Behold! The lost city of Anodunos!

The Guardian taunts me when I enter the city.

Perhaps thou seest thou future here.

A dire ghost floats above the city.

I am Helicopter. Who art thou?

I am Beatrice. When there was city here, I ruled it.

Anodunos was once a great city-state, a trading center of the southern continent, famed for its rich filanium deposits, We were losing a war with the northern city-states, and our sorcerors sought aid from the being called the Guardian.

I know him well -- a mighty and implacable foe.

So we learned. He won our war for us -- made us lords of this world for a time. But he demanded things in return -- first supplies, then weapons, finally soldiers and slaves. Too late, we understood the nature of our ally.

Surely you rebelled -- fought back?

Eventually we refused his demands, but by that time we had helped him gain too much power on our world. He crushed our nation utterly, as you see.

How prophetic, the fate of those acquired by the Guardian.

I must ask -- how exactly did he attack you?

I still remember the day the city fell; at midday the fountain in the town square froze in an instant. We all stared. The next minute we felt the cold air flowing outwards; eventually, the entire continent had frozen under.

What became of thee?

After the city fell, I... remained, somehow, nursing the last citydwellers into death, as the glaciers came, then the yeti. Since that time I have wandered the cold and silent streets. I know not how long it has been.

What is filanium?

Filanium is a rare mineral used in many medical and alchemical preparations. The mud in this area is particulary rich in it -- many bathed there, believing it a health measure.

Where can this mud be found?

'Tis far, far to the southeast of here, on the other side of the river, across what was once a smooth lake -- but beware the yeti who have made their home there.

Is there anything I can do to help thee?

Ever since the city fell, I have had a feeling of the Guardian's presence here -- as if he were somehow feeding, drawing some sort of sustenance from the power of the city. It maddens me to think of it.

I shall remedy this evil if I can.

I thank thee -- 'tis a long time since I met with any kindness in this place. Perhaps if the Guardian were banished from this place, I might find rest at last.

Anodunos is a prize, with riches yet to be plundered and they are all mine!

First stop is Alorik's Sorcerous Emporium. Lying on the ground is a scroll mentioning some Ultima reagents plus something called dream-spice.

Searching the wall reveals a secret switch.

Which opens Alorik's vault containing a sceptre of Mana Boost as well as some runes including the GRAV "Energy" rune which allows me to cast lightning.

The crystal orb gives further visions:

You see yourself climbing to the peak of Olympus Mons on the planet Mars.

You see yourself in the Deep Forest, speaking with the peace-loving simian race of Emps.

The first three images are from past Ultimas.

You see yourself peering into a crystal ball.

You see yourself winding a great war horn in the throne room of Castle British.

Oh noes! Spoilerz!

You see yourself sailing through majestic pillars cropping up out of the sea, on a voyage of discovery.

You see the obscure form of an old and dear friend, as he sacrifices his life for the good of all.

Good thing I can't see Ultima VIII or IX.

Amongst the other buildings I spot some strange plants growing near some bones.
During my adventure, I heard tales of a strange plant that can give dream visions.
I'm going to try eating one and sleep.

My dreams are strange indeed.

I'm in the Ethereal Void! This is the Shrine of Spirituality!
There's a hollow space in the gravestone.

I find a blackrock gem in the gravestone, but I can't access my inventory.
I decided to throw the gem through the pillars surrounding the shrine.
And then I woke up.

In another building I find a broadsword of poison weapon and a mace of major damage.

That is all I can do in this world for now. I shall return to my base and dump my plunder. But before I return to Lord British's castle, I have some unfinished business with the reaper in the sewers.

Lightning bolt! Lightning bolt! Sleep!

What are those grey rubbish heaps around the reaper? They weren't there the last time.

Those are plants burnt by lightning, spells can destroy items so the Avatar has to be careful.

Time to return to the castle and let Nystul treat the new blackrock gem.

 

[someone else]

But before the next episode, a list of persons compiled by Nystul in his manuscript: A Safe Passage Through Britannia.

LORD BRITISH heads the Great Council. Like the Avatar, he is a native of the world called Earth, and as a result he enjoys a much longer lifespan than native Britannians. Since the earliest days of Sosaria he has lead his people, and through his great wisdom gradually rose to become Britannia's philosopher-king.

LORD DRAXINUSOM is still titular head of the Gargoyle nation, even though the organization of the Gargoyle people has grown more and more diffuse since they were forced to move to Britannia. All still respect him as a wise ruler who saw his people through their most difficult period.

SIR DUPRE, who recently became a Knight of the Realm, has been a battle-companion to the Avatar since the days of Exodus. He is as dependable a fighter (and drinking companion) as one could wish for.

FERIDWYN, a native of Paws, has only recently been acknowledged as one of Britannia's most philanthropic citizens. A former Fellowship member, he is one of the few who actually succeeded in using The Fellowship's resources for the good of the community, by establishing a shelter for the destitute.

GEOFFREY first achieved fame fighting at the Stranger's side during the Quest of the Avatar. In recent years he has become one of Lord British's most trusted aides, as well as his chief bodyguard.

IOLO the bard has been a companion to the Avatar since the days of Mondain's assault. Like the Avatar and Lord British, he was born on Earth, although he has chosen to spend his life here in Britannia.

JULIA the tinker is widely known as a mechanical genius, in addition to the fame of her heroic conduct in the recent time of crises in Britannia. Her temper, too, is legendary.

MIRANDA is one of only three women on the Great Council of Britannia, and is perhaps the most progressive of Britannia's leaders. She is an outspoken supporter of an equal role for women in Britannian society, and also serves with distinction in ameliorating Britannia's environmental crises.

NELSON, although temporarily in Britain, heads the Lycaeum at Moonglow, and is widely considered to be the most accomplished scholar in Britannia, with the possible exception of the Gargoyle Inforlem.

I, NYSTUL must perforce, though with humility and with no small amount of embarrassment, include my own name in the account, as Court Magician to Lord British.

PATTERSON is mayor of the town of Britain, largest city in Britannia. Although Patterson was elected largely due to his extensive backing from The Fellowship, he has since proved himself a worthy and able mayor, and retained his office after The Fellowship was dissolved.

LADY TORY is a person of remarkable empathic ability. A resident of Serpent's Hold, she is frequently sought out for advice on personal matters.

A few others are not mentioned in the manuscript:

SYRIA is master of the Library of Scars. The Library of Scars is the most admired Fighter guild in the city of Jhelom.

Various guards in Lord British's castle.

FISSIF, a thief and a palindrome.

NANNA, the head servant, who broke many a pre-patch UW2 games with her buggy servant strike.

NELL, a revolting servant.

CHARLES, a pointless peasant.

 

[someone else]

Two updates in a day! Or maybe I just split one in two.

Part 6: Blood Stained Stones.

Listen to Ultima series "Stones":

http://www.joxter.net/stones/stoneslaz.mp3

From The Stones Archive:

http://www.joxter.net/

Lyrics:

Long ago ran the sun on a folk who had a dream
And the heart and the will and the power:
They moved the earth; they carved the stone; moulded hill and channeled stream
That we might stand on the wide plains of Wiltshire

Now men asked who they were, how they built and wonder why
That they wrought standing stones of such size
What was done 'neath our shade? What was pray'ed 'neath our skies
As we stood on the wyrd plains of Wiltshire

Oh what secrets we could tell if you'd listen and be still
Rid the stink and the noise from our skirts
But you haven't got the clue and perhaps you never will
Mute we stand on the cold plains of Wiltshire

Still we loom in the mists as the ages roll away
And we say of our folk, "they are here!"
That they built us and they died and you'll not be knowing why
Save we stand on the bare plains of Wiltshire

Composed by Iolo Fitz'Owen
Lyrics by Gwenno Fitz'Owen
Performed by Jared Ellsworth

After killing the reaper, I return to the castle and report to Miranda.

Well, it seems Nystul had something to say to thee, and Patterson has seemed rather anxious lately -- thou shouldst talk to him.

*A Guard appears*

Er...Lady Miranda?

Yes? What is it, Jenner? I am having an important discussion with the Avatar!

I hardly know hot to say this... but Lady Tory...

Yes? Out with it!

Julia just found her, ma'am. I...she's been killed.

How did this happen?

Er, it seems she was stabbed, ma'am. In her room.

Helicopter, thou hadst better go at once and investigate this. I shall inform the others.

I shall go to the crime scene at once.

I come across my companions, Dupre and Iolo on my way there.

Yes, I have heard of the tragedy.

Whoever the agent, I hold the Guardian responsible! Some day soon there must be reckoning with that red miscreant.

I cannot believe it -- Tory, struck down in the very midst of the castle! I can't believe one of us would do such a thing.

Frightened people are easy to manipulate, Iolo. One of us could have turned traitor.

'Tis impossible! How could they walk among us as a friend, after doing such a deed. No, 'twas something crept up from the caverns, I am sure of it!


Now to the crime scene.

A trail of blood leads to the room shared by Julia and Lady Tory.

Blood! Blood everywhere!
The KAL (Summon) rune and bread must had belonged to Lady Tory.

The last time I saw her, she was standing here.

She didn't sign up for this. I should have been the one murdered in a game.

Blimey, now that Lady Tory is gone, the Avatar's the only black Britannian still alive in the castle. Now that's a thought, and not a jolly one.

Julia enters the room.

Please, explain exactly what thou dost mean.

Avatar, if you don't find out who the traitor is, I will! I swear to you, it's that cold bastard Feridwyn. If he gives me one excuse, I'll cut his throat!

Should we not wait before throwing around such accusations?

*She sigh.*

Sometimes, Avatar, thy good nature becomes tiresome!

Nelson stays in the room nearest to Lady Tory, perhaps he knows something.

I can hardly believe it -- I was so fond of her, Helicopter. Tell me -- was it some... thing that crawled up out of the gem, or... dost thou think it could have been one of us?

Nay, likely something from one of the other worlds.

'Tis a relief to hear thee say that. And yet, 'twas not one of the verminous sewer-creatures that did that. It strikes me that the killing was no random act of malice or hunger, but a deliberate attempt to remove the empath from our midst.

Next is the man who made a pass at Lady Tory, Mayor Patterson.

How are things, Patterson?

What has happened, Helicopter, I can't think about it... I just can't think about it!

*He hides his face.*

I then talk to Julia's prime suspect, Feridwyn:

Does thou know anything about the murder?

Nay, I know nothing of it. Art thou accusing me, Avatar?

Thou art a prime suspect, Feridwyn!

If thou hast any evidence, then come out and make the accusation, but I assure thee that I am guilty of nothing. I am aware that many are talking of me behind my back, and I would be lying to say it dost not bother me. Helicopter, you of all people should know the dangers of groundless speculation.

Now let us hear what the King has to say.

*Stricken with grief, Lord British turns his face away from you.*

Please, Avatar, I would rather not speak with anyone right now.

What is the matter?

I cannot accept it! A woman murdered within the walls of my castle! If I cannot protect an innocent woman here, how can I protect an entire people?

Your Highness, thou canst not hold thyself responsible for everything.

*He sighs.*

I suppose thou art right. but mark me, now that the deed is done there shall be justice. I shall have the killer, or rule this land no more!

You make the right choice Mister B, I won't want to rule Britannia either, because Ultima IX and UO is the future.



Next task is to interview the three servants... er Domestic Managers.

Caught Nanna wandering outside the kitchen.

Avatar, hast thou heard the horrible news? Lady Tory has been murdered!

I am suspicious of this one, an ex-Fellowship member.

Lady Tory murdered? No, I didst not know!

She was stabbed in her room, stabbed several times!

*Nanna's face is wet with tears.*

How could something like that happen here? And to Lady Tory, who was such a kindly woman. 'Tis not fair that such a thing should happen! Not fair!

Hast thou heard who might have comitted the crime?

No, I have heard nothing. Now we are trapped here in the castle with a killer! What shall we do, Helicopter? What shall we do?

*Nanna begins to weep uncontrollably, and turns away from you.*

If she's the killer, she's a damn good actress.

The second Domestic Manager, Nell:

I have heard of Lady Tory's death. I wouldst prefer not to talk about it.

Hast thou heard any details of the crime?

I heard it was... that she was... oh, Helicopter, 'tis such a horrible crime! Lady Tory was a friend to everyone, and now she is... she is...

*Nell bursts into tears.*

The third and last Domestic Manager, Charles:

We shall mourn the loss of Lady Tory. She was a kindly woman, who often took time to talk with the servants.

Didst thou hear how she died?

Aye, and from what I hear, 'twas a gruesome stabbing! Apparently the killer was an incompetent, and had to stab her many times before she died. It chills my blood to think upon the deed. Be careful, Avatar. The murderer is still at large.

Hmmm, perhaps the murderer is not one who is familiar with weapons.

Hast thou any suspicions?

Feridwyn is at the top of my list of suspects, Avatar. He is distant and arrogant, and often rude to me. I'd not have guessed he was the murdering type, but 'twould not surprise me greatly. I am not so certain that he has abandoned all ties with the treacherous Fellowship.

Next I paid the jailed Fissip a visit, but he is oblivious to Lady Tory's death and has nothing to say.




But the two fighters there, Geoffrey and Syria have words to say.

I have heard the news about Lady Tory. We must all be doubly wary, Avatar, now that we know there is an enemy around us.

Aye, we should trust no one!

I didst not say that Helicopter. We must exercise caution, but avoid falling prey to paranoia. 'Tis my philosophy what if we lose our heads, the rest of us will surely follow.

Thou shouldst keep a close watch on the armoury.

I think that the murder was done by whoever stole the blunted dagger from the armoury earlier. I have heard that the wounds on Lady Tory were inflicted with a dull-edged blade.

Ouch, sounds like a painful death.

I cannot but agree. The matter turns my stomach.

*She spits.*

I do not often feel disgust, Avatar, but I confess I share thy feelings in this matter.

Hast thou any idea who is responsible?

As such matters have become my profession, let me offer thee some advice -- I do not think anyone in the castle could have carried this out. They are good people, and unused to killing -- if one of them had done this, it would show in their face. likely, 'twas some servant of the Guardian, crawling up through the sewers in the night.

I pray she is correct, the soldiers in Killorn Keep did mention that they know how to access this castle.
Lastly, I visit Nystul to treat the gem I took from the Ice Caverns. It seems he is quite found of Lady Tory.

She was so beautiful! Why did this have to happen to her?

Some say her emphatic powers made her a traitor's target.

I'm an old man, Helicopter! It should have been me.

When we find the traitor, we shall ask him... or her!

Aye, when we catch the traitor...

*You catch a glimpse of something you have never seen before in Nystul's eyes -- a bloodthirsty hatred.*

If there is nothing more, Helicopter, I must return to my work.

Yes there is, I want training for my mana skill, and manage to maxed it. Soon I shall max my casting skill as well.

It's a sad day but I have more worlds to visit, more blackrock gems to collect.
Three new facets are now open for entry.

That's it? The Avatar cannot solve the murder?

I'm afraid not, it's like Quenton in Ultiam VI, a murder mystery that cannot be solved. What were the designers thinking!


Current stats:
Level 11
Mana skill is at maximum.
Offensive spells:
Level 1 - Magic Arrow
Level 2 - Cause Fear, Deadly Seeker
Level 3 - Bleeding, Lightning, Repel Undead
Level 5 - Smite Undead
Level 6 - Charm

 

[Andhaira]

Better and better Mighty Mouse.

 

[Luzur]

UO was actually OK to play.

too bad there was no single player mode for it.

 

[Unkillable Cat]

Either I was completely oblivious to the existance of the Study Monster spell, or I dismissed it as being useless and forgot about it.

Thanks for showing me something new about UW2...again.

Is it me, or did you miss an important bit of dialogue with Lady Tory earlier on? The one where she talks about Feridwyn? IIRC, she sensed that he was either guilty of something horrific and completely remorseless about it, or that he's terrified of being accused of something he didn't commit.

 

[toroid]

Ice to see you!

The Guardian looks a lot like Willem Dafoe

 

[RK47]

Heh, this murder can be solved I think. It just takes plot progression to give more clues or did the suspect crack, I can't remember clearly..