Sandy

I have a sneaking suspicion you're talking to a wall here, Flipz...

You can sign into a quest as long as it is open for sign-ups, no matter how many others have signed up. You cannot sign into that specific quest because it is closed now, and it was meant for specific players anyway. There are other new quests on the way.

Welcome on my behalf as well! Yours and hoaganhbeo's characters have now been added to the Heroica Statistics list as well as the Gallery in the Heroica Hall-topic.

Professor Watt looks at the big box suspiciously, but climbs inside. "Well, if you are sure... Please, save everyone you can!" Joy peers down to the entrance hall where her brother's body is still lying. "P-please, can you send Ixion after us so we can give him a proper burial in Mopag?" Peppy, Willow and Sheldon also get into the box, and the heroes close the lid. "Here goes nothing... Mom, I've got Z-mail for you!" The box disappears in a swirl of light. The party waits for several grueling minutes. Then the box suddenly pops back, empty except for a note. "Aww, hell..." Noel cusses as he blushes. Party at the Gallery: Amorith Marvelo (legobodgers) 324 year old elven Sage Level 17 *Immune to sealed* Power: 28 (17+10+1) Defense: 9 (6+3) Health: 27/27 (5+16+6) Ether: 25/28 (5+16+2+5) Gold: 5 Equipment: Staff of Light (WP:10), Crow Cursed Cloak (SP:6), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3 max ether +5, immune to sealed) Inventory: Opal (Ice), Ruby (Fire), Garnet (Earth), Diamond (Light), Amethyst (Darkness), Emerald (Wood), Sapphire (Wind), Topaz (Lightning), Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, 4 Potions, 9 Tonics, 4 Remedies, Elixir, Phoenix Essence, Newtralizer (Like a neutralizer but with a 'w' instead of a 'u'), 2 Smelling Salts, 4 Nostrums, 5 Mead, 2 Mulled Wines, Ambrosia, Venom, Ice Bomb, Smoke Bomb, Fire Bomb, Shovel, Bedroll, 4 Bones, Banana (Restores full health to the user; consumable) Erik Tyrvarr (Myrddyn) 19 years old male human Shaman Level 17 *Immune to Fragile* *Restoration* Power: 28 (17+11) Defense: 4 Health: 38/38 (8+16+9+5) Ether: 8/18 (17+1) Gold: 1 Equipment: Titanic Axe (WP:11, Earth- abd Light-elemental, has 1/6 chance of inflicting petrified-effect; axe), Lighter Armor (SP:4, immune to fragile-effect; bodywear), Barbarian's Boots (Natural Respite>Restoration; footwear) Inventory: Voltedge (WP: 13, Lightning-elemental; greatsword/longsword), Twin Axe (WP:5, Darkness-elemental dual strike-axe), Peacekeeper's Totem (Grants the "Diplomacy"-job trait; suitable to Erik only; accessory), Talisman of Enlightenment (Protects from hexed-effect; accessory), Hundred Hero Hymn (Battle Song that gives Inspired-effect to all allies for as long as the song is sung at the cost of 10 ether per round), Potion, 2 Tonics, Remedy, Grand Elixir (Restores full health and ether to target and remedies all negative effects), Phoenix Essence, Nostrum, Venom John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster and the Super Sleuth (Cutcobra) 32 year old male human Sorcerer *Party Leader* Level 18 *Immune to Sealed* Power: 30 (18+12) (Spellpower: 35 (18+12+5)) Defense: 3 Health: 26/26 (5+17+4) Ether: 23/29 (5+17+1+5+1) Gold: 117 Equipment: Darkstar Wand (WP:12; has 1/2 chance of inflicting hexed-effect; Darkness-elemental wand), Spellbound Gloves (Spellpower +5, handwear), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed) Inventory: Rat Scepter (WP:3, 4x damage to enemies named “rat”; wand), Lovelorn Wand (WP 6, deals enamored-effect), Pitchfork of Abomination (WP:1, pierces all defenses including SP but breaks after one use; suitable to all classes), Harlot's Outfit (SP: 2, immune to poisoned; suitable for Witches, Sorcerers and Harlots; bodywear/footwear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Diamond (Light), Ruby (Fire), Aquamarine (Water), Grand Potion, Health Core, Elixir, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, Mead, Soma, Smoke Bomb, Seal Bomb (Deals 5 damage and the sealed-effect to all opponents when used.), Bedroll, Shovel, Wicked Perfume (Makes all male humanoid enemies enamored to the user, but makes all female humanoid enemies encouraged; consumable), Blue Jelly Thalion Dwinlas, the Super Sleuth (-obelix-) 213 years old male elf Sorcerer Level 23 *Immune to Fragile, Sealed, Poisoned, Bleeding* Power: 36 (23+13) Defense: 7 (3+4) Health: 31/31 (5+22+4) Ether: 24/33 (5+22+1+5) Gold: 1 Equipment: Alpha and Omega (WP:13, dual healing/spellcasting at the cost of 2 ether; staves), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether +5, Immunity to Sealed; bodywear), Emerald Hood (SP:4, Immunity to Fragile; headwear), Sterile Gloves (Immunity toPoisoned and Bleeding; handwear) Inventory: Weapons: Sleeper (WP:5, deals Asleep to enemies it hits, Hollow [Grand Potion], melee/throwing weapon), Ratsbane (WP:10, absorbs 2 health on successful hits, dagger), Batarang (WP:13 darkness-elemental, throwing weapon) Artifacts: Duplovian Helmet of the Guard (SP:2, Immune to Magic and Healing; headwear), Dragoon's Helmet (SP:3, makes wearer absorb attacks of the element of their pet dragon, gaining health instead of damage; suitable for dragoons; headwear), Cloak of Espionage (Allows the wearer to examine enemy stats before a battle; backwear), Bumble Fanshirt (SP:1, vermin with level less than half of the wearer's are scared and won't directly attack the wearer; bodywear) Gems: Zirconia (Gem containing all elements; cannot be merged into equipment) Scrolls: Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Frailty, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sleep Consumables: 3 Grand Potions, Grand Tonic, Ether Core, 2 Remedies, Elixir, 2 Phoenix Essences, Mead, 3 Nostrums, 2 Smelling Salts, Copy of The Eubric Herald (Gives the target the transcended andinspired-effects for the duration of one battle), Venom, Smoke Bomb, Sleep Bomb (Deals 5 damage and the asleep-effect to all opponents when used.), Bone Tools: Magic Compass, Shovel, Bedroll Noel Ziegfried (NPC, controlled by Cutcobra) 15 years old male half-elven Mage Level 10 *Protected from Free Hits* Power: 19 (10+9) Defense: 0 Health: 15/15 (5+9+1) Ether: 0/15 (5+9+1) Gold: 274 Equipment: Rawr (WP:9, dagger), Buffoon's Hat (Prevents anyone from taking the wearer seriously; protects from Free Hits unless the wearer is the last hero standing; headwear) Inventory: Heirloom Dagger (WP: 3), Pointy Cap (Max. health +1, Max. ether +1; immunity to sealed; usable by Noel only; headwear), Sharkskin Armour (SP +1, immune to Water; bodywear), Amethyst (Darkness), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Scroll of Blinding, Big Box (Summon to cause 50 damage and stunned-effect to the target at the cost of 5 ether), Grand Tonic, Feather of Flight (Allows the user to flee a battle once) Followers: Karie looks around the classroom, but only finds scattered papers, tattered books and pencils. Nothing useful. "We elven students do not get along with neither Midgets nor Greenies. That is how it has always been. And no, I do not think I'd know how to use a dagger without stabbing myself with it." Party at the Physics Classroom: Karie Alderflask (Kintobor) 22 years old female human Witch *Party Second-in-Command* Level 21 1/3 *Poisonous Attacks* *Gain Double Experience* *Money Maker* Power: 31 (21+10) Defense: 2 Health: 37/37 (7+20+8+2) Ether: 14/27 (21+4+2) Gold: 7 Equipment: Grumpy's Staff (WP:10, fire-elemental staff), Ethereal Cloak (SP +2, Max. Ether +4), Glittering Dress (The user's job traits are replaced with those of a Harlot: Promiscuity, Flee and Money Maker; suitable to women only; bodywear), Medal of Valor (This pendant is awarded by the Bonapartes to those who show their heroism in the battle against piracy. The wearer gains double experience from battles.) Inventory: Oculoid Palm (WP: 11, successful hits lowers the target's level by 1; coils around the user's arm and mimics a tattoo outside of battle; whip), Sexy (WP: 8, Rapier, Disregards SP, usable by Knights and Rogues), Rusty Dagger (WP:2 - Deals the Badly Poisoned Effect, Breaks After 3 Uses), Doppleganger (Retribution: The user inflicts any negative effects he or she has on to the targeted enemy on successful hits.), Catsuit (Wearer has 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER and DAMAGE and Free Hits; suitable to women only; bodywear), Paper Doll (immunity to hexed; accessory), Trickster's Mask of the Elf (Accessory, changes user's appearance into an Elf), Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Newtity (Turns target into a newt for 1 round; costs 10 ether; usable by ex-Amphibians only), 2 Grand Potions, Tonic, 3 Grand Tonics, 2 Remedies, 2 Phoenix Essences, 2 Meads, 2 Nostrum, 8 Venoms, Water Bomb, Pumpkin Bomb (causes stunned, poisoned, asleep, blinded, sealed, and confused to all opponents when used), Military Grade Darkness Bomb, Love Potion (Makes target enamoured with user for three rounds), Tasty Pretzel (1/3 chance each of granting lucky, hastened and encouraged-effects upon consumption), Telescope, Bedroll Sorrow (Endgame) 428 years old undead Assassin Level 26 *Immune to Light and Blinded* *Encouraged* *Hastened* *Lucky* Power: 42 (26+15+1) Defense: 6 Health: 37/37 (7+25+5) Gold: 274 Equipment: Shark Jaw Scythe (WP 15/30 vs. aquatic monsters), Sticky Gloves (Increases the amount of gold stolen by 50% (rounded up), suitable for rogues and beast warriors; handwear), Night’s Helmet (SP:6, immunity to light and blinded; headwear) Inventory: Reaper’s Scythe (WP:33, damages only humanoids; suitable to assassins only; scythe), Mockthril Longbow (WP: 27 Ice and Darkness Elemental), Longsword (WP: 5), Armor of the Croise (SP: 1, +2 power; bodywear), Dark Cloak (Backwear, SP:1, Max Health +1, Power +1, suitable for rogues and barbarians), Archer's Hat (Artifact, headwear, Power +1, suitable for rangers), Disguise Kit (Allows the user to disguise them self as the opposite gender; accessory), 4 Grand Potions, 3 Health Cores, 2 Tonics, 2 Ether Cores, 5 Remedies, Neutralizer, 2 Phoenix Essences, 13 Meads, 13 Smelling Salts, 12 Nostrums, 2 Ambrosia, 2 Venoms, 2 Deadly Venoms, Chaotic Bomb (Causes 100 random elemental damage to all opponents), Bedroll, Silver Ore (Worth 60 gold) Followers: Utulië, female "Pointer" Missing: 63/73 Found: 10/73 Saved: 5/73 Dead: 1/73

Ellaria caught up with Boomingham as he made his way to the warehouse. "Lawrence, wait! Onto another adventure together, eh? We should be careful, lest they start spreading rumors about the two of us." She gave the old knight a wink. Then they arrived and saw the others.standing in front of the warehouse. She saw something blue and gleaming inside the boat and took a closer look to see if it was anything valuable. "Good day, everyone! Let us pray our second foray into Strivvi will be a more successful one."

That is one of life's great mysteries. Please do not post questions into any other topic than here or the Rules & FAQ topic (for game-related questions). The answer is that I am a human, and hosting just one quest takes a great amount of time. That is why I am not the only one to host quests, but other experienced players can host them as well (as long as I have approved them). I simply do not have the time to start a new quest every time someone new joins in, even though it would be great if there was always a quest to sign into. You simply have to be patient.

The party decides to split up. Heckz leads his party to the Gallery, where they find the big box still intact. "Here's the box. Should I try to send the people with us home now?" Party at the Gallery: Amorith Marvelo (legobodgers) 324 year old elven Sage Level 17 *Immune to sealed* Power: 28 (17+10+1) Defense: 9 (6+3) Health: 27/27 (5+16+6) Ether: 25/28 (5+16+2+5) Gold: 5 Equipment: Staff of Light (WP:10), Crow Cursed Cloak (SP:6), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3 max ether +5, immune to sealed) Inventory: Opal (Ice), Ruby (Fire), Garnet (Earth), Diamond (Light), Amethyst (Darkness), Emerald (Wood), Sapphire (Wind), Topaz (Lightning), Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, 4 Potions, 9 Tonics, 4 Remedies, Elixir, Phoenix Essence, Newtralizer (Like a neutralizer but with a 'w' instead of a 'u'), 2 Smelling Salts, 4 Nostrums, 5 Mead, 2 Mulled Wines, Ambrosia, Venom, Ice Bomb, Smoke Bomb, Fire Bomb, Shovel, Bedroll, 4 Bones, Banana (Restores full health to the user; consumable) Erik Tyrvarr (Myrddyn) 19 years old male human Shaman Level 17 *Immune to Fragile* *Restoration* Power: 28 (17+11) Defense: 4 Health: 38/38 (8+16+9+5) Ether: 8/18 (17+1) Gold: 1 Equipment: Titanic Axe (WP:11, Earth- abd Light-elemental, has 1/6 chance of inflicting petrified-effect; axe), Lighter Armor (SP:4, immune to fragile-effect; bodywear), Barbarian's Boots (Natural Respite>Restoration; footwear) Inventory: Voltedge (WP: 13, Lightning-elemental; greatsword/longsword), Twin Axe (WP:5, Darkness-elemental dual strike-axe), Peacekeeper's Totem (Grants the "Diplomacy"-job trait; suitable to Erik only; accessory), Talisman of Enlightenment (Protects from hexed-effect; accessory), Hundred Hero Hymn (Battle Song that gives Inspired-effect to all allies for as long as the song is sung at the cost of 10 ether per round), Potion, 2 Tonics, Remedy, Grand Elixir (Restores full health and ether to target and remedies all negative effects), Phoenix Essence, Nostrum, Venom John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster and the Super Sleuth (Cutcobra) 32 year old male human Sorcerer *Party Leader* Level 18 *Immune to Sealed* Power: 30 (18+12) (Spellpower: 35 (18+12+5)) Defense: 3 Health: 26/26 (5+17+4) Ether: 23/29 (5+17+1+5+1) Gold: 117 Equipment: Darkstar Wand (WP:12; has 1/2 chance of inflicting hexed-effect; Darkness-elemental wand), Spellbound Gloves (Spellpower +5, handwear), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed) Inventory: Rat Scepter (WP:3, 4x damage to enemies named “rat”; wand), Lovelorn Wand (WP 6, deals enamored-effect), Pitchfork of Abomination (WP:1, pierces all defenses including SP but breaks after one use; suitable to all classes), Harlot's Outfit (SP: 2, immune to poisoned; suitable for Witches, Sorcerers and Harlots; bodywear/footwear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Diamond (Light), Ruby (Fire), Aquamarine (Water), Grand Potion, Health Core, Grand Tonic, Elixir, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, Mead, Soma, Smoke Bomb, Seal Bomb (Deals 5 damage and the sealed-effect to all opponents when used.), Bedroll, Shovel, Wicked Perfume (Makes all male humanoid enemies enamored to the user, but makes all female humanoid enemies encouraged; consumable), Blue Jelly Thalion Dwinlas, the Super Sleuth (-obelix-) 213 years old male elf Sorcerer Level 23 *Immune to Fragile, Sealed, Poisoned, Bleeding* Power: 36 (23+13) Defense: 7 (3+4) Health: 31/31 (5+22+4) Ether: 24/33 (5+22+1+5) Gold: 1 Equipment: Alpha and Omega (WP:13, dual healing/spellcasting at the cost of 2 ether; staves), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether +5, Immunity to Sealed; bodywear), Emerald Hood (SP:4, Immunity to Fragile; headwear), Sterile Gloves (Immunity toPoisoned and Bleeding; handwear) Inventory: Weapons: Sleeper (WP:5, deals Asleep to enemies it hits, Hollow [Grand Potion], melee/throwing weapon), Ratsbane (WP:10, absorbs 2 health on successful hits, dagger), Batarang (WP:13 darkness-elemental, throwing weapon) Artifacts: Duplovian Helmet of the Guard (SP:2, Immune to Magic and Healing; headwear), Dragoon's Helmet (SP:3, makes wearer absorb attacks of the element of their pet dragon, gaining health instead of damage; suitable for dragoons; headwear), Cloak of Espionage (Allows the wearer to examine enemy stats before a battle; backwear), Bumble Fanshirt (SP:1, vermin with level less than half of the wearer's are scared and won't directly attack the wearer; bodywear) Gems: Zirconia (Gem containing all elements; cannot be merged into equipment) Scrolls: Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Frailty, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sleep Consumables: 3 Grand Potions, Grand Tonic, Ether Core, 2 Remedies, Elixir, 2 Phoenix Essences, Mead, 3 Nostrums, 2 Smelling Salts, Copy of The Eubric Herald (Gives the target the transcended andinspired-effects for the duration of one battle), Venom, Smoke Bomb, Sleep Bomb (Deals 5 damage and the asleep-effect to all opponents when used.), Bone Tools: Magic Compass, Shovel, Bedroll Noel Ziegfried (NPC, controlled by Cutcobra) 15 years old male half-elven Mage Level 10 *Protected from Free Hits* Power: 19 (10+9) Defense: 0 Health: 15/15 (5+9+1) Ether: 5/15 (5+9+1) Gold: 274 Equipment: Rawr (WP:9, dagger), Buffoon's Hat (Prevents anyone from taking the wearer seriously; protects from Free Hits unless the wearer is the last hero standing; headwear) Inventory: Heirloom Dagger (WP: 3), Pointy Cap (Max. health +1, Max. ether +1; immunity to sealed; usable by Noel only; headwear), Sharkskin Armour (SP +1, immune to Water; bodywear), Amethyst (Darkness), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Scroll of Blinding, Big Box (Summon to cause 50 damage and stunned-effect to the target at the cost of 5 ether), Feather of Flight (Allows the user to flee a battle once) Followers: Professor Abbot Watt, History & Archaeology Joy, female student Willow, male "Midget" Peppy, female student Sheldon, male "Foureyes" Meanwhile, Karie and Sorrow stay in the Physics Classroom with the elven student. "Are we just going to sit around and wait here? My friends might be in trouble, you must help me find them!" Party at the Physics Classroom: Karie Alderflask (Kintobor) 22 years old female human Witch *Party Second-in-Command* Level 21 1/3 *Poisonous Attacks* *Gain Double Experience* *Money Maker* Power: 31 (21+10) Defense: 2 Health: 37/37 (7+20+8+2) Ether: 14/27 (21+4+2) Gold: 7 Equipment: Grumpy's Staff (WP:10, fire-elemental staff), Ethereal Cloak (SP +2, Max. Ether +4), Glittering Dress (The user's job traits are replaced with those of a Harlot: Promiscuity, Flee and Money Maker; suitable to women only; bodywear), Medal of Valor (This pendant is awarded by the Bonapartes to those who show their heroism in the battle against piracy. The wearer gains double experience from battles.) Inventory: Oculoid Palm (WP: 11, successful hits lowers the target's level by 1; coils around the user's arm and mimics a tattoo outside of battle; whip), Sexy (WP: 8, Rapier, Disregards SP, usable by Knights and Rogues), Rusty Dagger (WP:2 - Deals the Badly Poisoned Effect, Breaks After 3 Uses), Doppleganger (Retribution: The user inflicts any negative effects he or she has on to the targeted enemy on successful hits.), Catsuit (Wearer has 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER and DAMAGE and Free Hits; suitable to women only; bodywear), Paper Doll (immunity to hexed; accessory), Trickster's Mask of the Elf (Accessory, changes user's appearance into an Elf), Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Newtity (Turns target into a newt for 1 round; costs 10 ether; usable by ex-Amphibians only), 2 Grand Potions, Tonic, 3 Grand Tonics, 2 Remedies, 2 Phoenix Essences, 2 Meads, 2 Nostrum, 8 Venoms, Water Bomb, Pumpkin Bomb (causes stunned, poisoned, asleep, blinded, sealed, and confused to all opponents when used), Military Grade Darkness Bomb, Love Potion (Makes target enamoured with user for three rounds), Tasty Pretzel (1/3 chance each of granting lucky, hastened and encouraged-effects upon consumption), Telescope, Bedroll Sorrow (Endgame) 428 years old undead Assassin Level 26 *Immune to Light and Blinded* *Encouraged* *Hastened* *Lucky* Power: 42 (26+15+1) Defense: 6 Health: 37/37 (7+25+5) Gold: 274 Equipment: Shark Jaw Scythe (WP 15/30 vs. aquatic monsters), Sticky Gloves (Increases the amount of gold stolen by 50% (rounded up), suitable for rogues and beast warriors; handwear), Night’s Helmet (SP:6, immunity to light and blinded; headwear) Inventory: Reaper’s Scythe (WP:33, damages only humanoids; suitable to assassins only; scythe), Mockthril Longbow (WP: 27 Ice and Darkness Elemental), Longsword (WP: 5), Armor of the Croise (SP: 1, +2 power; bodywear), Dark Cloak (Backwear, SP:1, Max Health +1, Power +1, suitable for rogues and barbarians), Archer's Hat (Artifact, headwear, Power +1, suitable for rangers), Disguise Kit (Allows the user to disguise them self as the opposite gender; accessory), 4 Grand Potions, 3 Health Cores, 2 Tonics, 2 Ether Cores, 5 Remedies, Neutralizer, 2 Phoenix Essences, 13 Meads, 13 Smelling Salts, 12 Nostrums, 2 Ambrosia, 2 Venoms, 2 Deadly Venoms, Chaotic Bomb (Causes 100 random elemental damage to all opponents), Bedroll, Silver Ore (Worth 60 gold) Followers: Utulië, female "Pointer Missing: 63/73 Found: 10/73 Saved: 0/73 Dead: 1/73

I know. I've just been tired the last couple of days, probably coming up with something... So I'm pretty much sucked out of humor. My apologies.

I know you love to have a laugh at my imperfect English, but it's getting disrespectful. Just throwing it out there...

"But the big box isn't here. We left it at the gallery when we fought the Reaper, remember? I'd need to summon it here, first." "I have no desire to remain here any longer than necessary. I am sure you can locate the artefact yourself. I left it on my desk in the classroom." "What do you mean, discipline them? Do you mean we should spank them?! There are the offspring of wealthy and noble families, they do what they want." "Yep, that's true." "For the last time, the box fits six people at a time, and it's now in the Gallery."

I have grown accustomed calculating attacks through using the "Power"-statistic, so that I don't have to do extra calculus every time someone rolls a hit. For critical and extra critical attacks, I just add the WP of the chosen weapon to the Power once or twice. I know other QMs prefer calculating the power each time, but I don't. That's why I need the Power-stat to show. It doesn't "take room" any more than a line for listing power bonuses.

Noel rolls his eyes again. "I think it's pretty obvious, since I'm the only son of Valentine Ziegfried here." "But they are just children! They do not wish to die, they are just mistrusting towards strangers. How would you react if someone you never met before would come and tell you to get into a box or you would die?"

"I doubt it, as long as I'm in the party. I'm a Gothic, remember? We could always split up, though..."

Professor Watt shrugs helplessly. "What can you do? They're teenagers. They walk in skimpy clothing all through the winter just because they want to look good. There's no reasoning with them if they've set their minds."

~A new quest has been posted on the Quest Board (#96 by Scubacarrot)!~ After delivering the "Vibrator" to the Tritech Company's headquarters, Ellaria took a much-needed rest at her house before returning to the Hall. She hoped that the little imp Hybros would not be present, since he would be hogging for her to explain things like intercourse and pregnancy, which were topics she would rather not speak about out loud. Maybe she could convince Lawrence to have that talk with Hybros instead. She glanced at the Quest Board, and saw that Captain Patricia had finally decided to continue the aborted mission in Strivvi. Thinking she owed the Captain of the Town Watch a second chance, Ellaria signed her name for Quest#96. Would the others be willing to return to Strivvi as well, considering the awful situation there? She would certainly be much more comfortable if she'd have Lawrence, Skrall and the others with her...

"If I could only be so lucky, dear Lawrence", Ellaria said with a smile. She then nodded to Hybros and De'kra. "It was an honor to meet you two as well. It is as they say, the best things come in small packages." Oblivious to the possible offensiveness of her words, the druid waves goodbye to her companions and heads back towards her house in Marlin Street.

"Duh, I already told you. Six people fit in at a time, but I can of course send it back straight away as long as I've got the ether." "Umm. I think you misunderstood. Dean Bumblebore ran from this classroom with the other students when the school started shaking and the white light appeared outside. We didn't see where he went from here." "Hmpf! There's no reason you can't send me home in another batch - one with no Midgets or Greenies." "The feeling's mutual, Pointer."

"That leaves me with the Serenade of Water. Pleasure doing business with you, gentlemen." Ellaria blushes a little. "I had hoped you would have forgotten that already, Hybros. But very well, I'll tell you all about it over a cup of mead back at the Saloon. I will need that..."

"Yeah, I can summon the big box here, but I'd be out of ether then." "Yay! We're saved! I'm so happy now!!!" "Get us out of here as fast as you can, please." The bespectacled boy glances at his elven classmate. "What's the matter, Utulië?" "I'm not going anywhere with a nasty little midget..." The humans, Peppy and Sheldon, agree to follow the party, but the female "Pointer" Utulië stays put. Party: Amorith Marvelo (legobodgers) 324 year old elven Sage Level 17 *Immune to sealed* Power: 28 (17+10+1) Defense: 9 (6+3) Health: 27/27 (5+16+6) Ether: 25/28 (5+16+2+5) Gold: 5 Equipment: Staff of Light (WP:10), Crow Cursed Cloak (SP:6), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3 max ether +5, immune to sealed) Inventory: Opal (Ice), Ruby (Fire), Garnet (Earth), Diamond (Light), Amethyst (Darkness), Emerald (Wood), Sapphire (Wind), Topaz (Lightning), Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, 4 Potions, 9 Tonics, 4 Remedies, Elixir, Phoenix Essence, Newtralizer (Like a neutralizer but with a 'w' instead of a 'u'), 2 Smelling Salts, 4 Nostrums, 5 Mead, 2 Mulled Wines, Ambrosia, Venom, Ice Bomb, Smoke Bomb, Fire Bomb, Shovel, Bedroll, 4 Bones, Banana (Restores full health to the user; consumable) Erik Tyrvarr (Myrddyn) 19 years old male human Shaman Level 17 *Immune to Fragile* *Restoration* Power: 28 (17+11) Defense: 4 Health: 38/38 (8+16+9+5) Ether: 8/18 (17+1) Gold: 1 Equipment: Titanic Axe (WP:11, Earth- abd Light-elemental, has 1/6 chance of inflicting petrified-effect; axe), Lighter Armor (SP:4, immune to fragile-effect; bodywear), Barbarian's Boots (Natural Respite>Restoration; footwear) Inventory: Voltedge (WP: 13, Lightning-elemental; greatsword/longsword), Twin Axe (WP:5, Darkness-elemental dual strike-axe), Peacekeeper's Totem (Grants the "Diplomacy"-job trait; suitable to Erik only; accessory), Talisman of Enlightenment (Protects from hexed-effect; accessory), Hundred Hero Hymn (Battle Song that gives Inspired-effect to all allies for as long as the song is sung at the cost of 10 ether per round), Potion, 2 Tonics, Remedy, Grand Elixir (Restores full health and ether to target and remedies all negative effects), Phoenix Essence, Nostrum, Venom John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster and the Super Sleuth (Cutcobra) 32 year old male Sorcerer *Party Leader* Level 18 *Immune to Sealed* Power: 30 (18+12) (Spellpower: 35 (18+12+5)) Defense: 3 Health: 26/26 (5+17+4) Ether: 23/29 (5+17+1+5+1) Gold: 117 Equipment: Darkstar Wand (WP:12; has 1/2 chance of inflicting hexed-effect; Darkness-elemental wand), Spellbound Gloves (Spellpower +5, handwear), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed) Inventory: Rat Scepter (WP:3, 4x damage to enemies named “rat”; wand), Lovelorn Wand (WP 6, deals enamored-effect), Pitchfork of Abomination (WP:1, pierces all defenses including SP but breaks after one use; suitable to all classes), Harlot's Outfit (SP: 2, immune to poisoned; suitable for Witches, Sorcerers and Harlots; bodywear/footwear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Diamond (Light), Ruby (Fire), Aquamarine (Water), Grand Potion, Health Core, Grand Tonic, Elixir, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, Mead, Soma, Smoke Bomb, Seal Bomb (Deals 5 damage and the sealed-effect to all opponents when used.), Bedroll, Shovel, Wicked Perfume (Makes all male humanoid enemies enamored to the user, but makes all female humanoid enemies encouraged; consumable), Blue Jelly Karie Alderflask (Kintobor) Level 21 1/3 Witch *Poisonous Attacks* *Gain Double Experience* *Money Maker* Power: 31 (21+10) Defense: 2 Health: 37/37 (7+20+8+2) Ether: 14/27 (21+4+2) Gold: 7 Equipment: Grumpy's Staff (WP:10, fire-elemental staff), Ethereal Cloak (SP +2, Max. Ether +4), Glittering Dress (The user's job traits are replaced with those of a Harlot: Promiscuity, Flee and Money Maker; suitable to women only; bodywear), Medal of Valor (This pendant is awarded by the Bonapartes to those who show their heroism in the battle against piracy. The wearer gains double experience from battles.) Inventory: Oculoid Palm (WP: 11, successful hits lowers the target's level by 1; coils around the user's arm and mimics a tattoo outside of battle; whip), Sexy (WP: 8, Rapier, Disregards SP, usable by Knights and Rogues), Rusty Dagger (WP:2 - Deals the Badly Poisoned Effect, Breaks After 3 Uses), Doppleganger (Retribution: The user inflicts any negative effects he or she has on to the targeted enemy on successful hits.), Catsuit (Wearer has 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER and DAMAGE and Free Hits; suitable to women only; bodywear), Paper Doll (immunity to hexed; accessory), Trickster's Mask of the Elf (Accessory, changes user's appearance into an Elf), Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Newtity (Turns target into a newt for 1 round; costs 10 ether; usable by ex-Amphibians only), 2 Grand Potions, Tonic, 3 Grand Tonics, 2 Remedies, 2 Phoenix Essences, 2 Meads, 2 Nostrum, 8 Venoms, Water Bomb, Pumpkin Bomb (causes stunned, poisoned, asleep, blinded, sealed, and confused to all opponents when used), Military Grade Darkness Bomb, Love Potion (Makes target enamoured with user for three rounds), Tasty Pretzel (1/3 chance each of granting lucky, hastened and encouraged-effects upon consumption), Telescope, Bedroll Sorrow (Endgame) 428 years old undead Assassin Level 26 *Immune to Light and Blinded* *Encouraged* *Hastened* *Lucky* Power: 42 (26+15+1) Defense: 6 Health: 37/37 (7+25+5) Gold: 274 Equipment: Shark Jaw Scythe (WP 15/30 vs. aquatic monsters), Sticky Gloves (Increases the amount of gold stolen by 50% (rounded up), suitable for rogues and beast warriors; handwear), Night’s Helmet (SP:6, immunity to light and blinded; headwear) Inventory: Reaper’s Scythe (WP:33, damages only humanoids; suitable to assassins only; scythe), Mockthril Longbow (WP: 27 Ice and Darkness Elemental), Longsword (WP: 5), Armor of the Croise (SP: 1, +2 power; bodywear), Dark Cloak (Backwear, SP:1, Max Health +1, Power +1, suitable for rogues and barbarians), Archer's Hat (Artifact, headwear, Power +1, suitable for rangers), Disguise Kit (Allows the user to disguise them self as the opposite gender; accessory), 4 Grand Potions, 3 Health Cores, 2 Tonics, 2 Ether Cores, 5 Remedies, Neutralizer, 2 Phoenix Essences, 13 Meads, 13 Smelling Salts, 12 Nostrums, 2 Ambrosia, 2 Venoms, 2 Deadly Venoms, Chaotic Bomb (Causes 100 random elemental damage to all opponents), Bedroll, Silver Ore (Worth 60 gold) Thalion Dwinlas, the Super Sleuth (-obelix-) 213 years old male elf Sorcerer Level 23 *Immune to Fragile, Sealed, Poisoned, Bleeding* Power: 36 (23+13) Defense: 7 (3+4) Health: 31/31 (5+22+4) Ether: 24/33 (5+22+1+5) Gold: 1 Equipment: Alpha and Omega (WP:13, dual healing/spellcasting at the cost of 2 ether; staves), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether +5, Immunity to Sealed; bodywear), Emerald Hood (SP:4, Immunity to Fragile; headwear), Sterile Gloves (Immunity toPoisoned and Bleeding; handwear) Inventory: Weapons: Sleeper (WP:5, deals Asleep to enemies it hits, Hollow [Grand Potion], melee/throwing weapon), Ratsbane (WP:10, absorbs 2 health on successful hits, dagger), Batarang (WP:13 darkness-elemental, throwing weapon) Artifacts: Duplovian Helmet of the Guard (SP:2, Immune to Magic and Healing; headwear), Dragoon's Helmet (SP:3, makes wearer absorb attacks of the element of their pet dragon, gaining health instead of damage; suitable for dragoons; headwear), Cloak of Espionage (Allows the wearer to examine enemy stats before a battle; backwear), Bumble Fanshirt (SP:1, vermin with level less than half of the wearer's are scared and won't directly attack the wearer; bodywear) Gems: Zirconia (Gem containing all elements; cannot be merged into equipment) Scrolls: Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Frailty, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sleep Consumables: 3 Grand Potions, Grand Tonic, Ether Core, 2 Remedies, Elixir, 2 Phoenix Essences, Mead, 3 Nostrums, 2 Smelling Salts, Copy of The Eubric Herald (Gives the target the transcended andinspired-effects for the duration of one battle), Venom, Smoke Bomb, Sleep Bomb (Deals 5 damage and the asleep-effect to all opponents when used.), Bone Tools: Magic Compass, Shovel, Bedroll Noel Ziegfried (NPC, controlled by Cutcobra) 15 years old male half-elven Mage Level 10 *Protected from Free Hits* Power: 19 (10+9) Defense: 0 Health: 15/15 (5+9+1) Ether: 5/15 (5+9+1) Gold: 274 Equipment: Rawr (WP:9, dagger), Buffoon's Hat (Prevents anyone from taking the wearer seriously; protects from Free Hits unless the wearer is the last hero standing; headwear) Inventory: Heirloom Dagger (WP: 3), Pointy Cap (Max. health +1, Max. ether +1; immunity to sealed; usable by Noel only; headwear), Sharkskin Armour (SP +1, immune to Water; bodywear), Amethyst (Darkness), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Scroll of Blinding, Big Box (Summon to cause 50 damage and stunned-effect to the target at the cost of 5 ether), Feather of Flight (Allows the user to flee a battle once) Followers: Professor Abbot Watt, History & Archaeology Joy, female student Willow, male "Midget" Peppy, female student Sheldon, male "Foureyes" Missing: 63/73 Found: 10/73 Saved: 0/73 Dead: 1/73

"I guess she's was at the Training Room on the first floor, like, rehearsing her routine. Gawds, I hope she's alright..." The party continues to the next room down the hall, and come to a classroom with complex equations written on the chalkboard. Three students rise behind the desks where they were hiding, looking at the heroes in confusion. "This is the Physics Classroom. No sign of monsters in here..." "Professor Watt! I demand to know what is going on!" "We heard awful noises, and then the other students rushed out with Dean Bumblebore. The three of us decided it was best to just sit tight and be rescued." "Yay! I told you guys it would all turn out alright!" What will the heroes tell the three students. Party: Amorith Marvelo (legobodgers) 324 year old elven Sage Level 17 *Immune to sealed* Power: 28 (17+10+1) Defense: 9 (6+3) Health: 27/27 (5+16+6) Ether: 25/28 (5+16+2+5) Gold: 5 Equipment: Staff of Light (WP:10), Crow Cursed Cloak (SP:6), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3 max ether +5, immune to sealed) Inventory: Opal (Ice), Ruby (Fire), Garnet (Earth), Diamond (Light), Amethyst (Darkness), Emerald (Wood), Sapphire (Wind), Topaz (Lightning), Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, 4 Potions, 9 Tonics, 4 Remedies, Elixir, Phoenix Essence, Newtralizer (Like a neutralizer but with a 'w' instead of a 'u'), 2 Smelling Salts, 4 Nostrums, 5 Mead, 2 Mulled Wines, Ambrosia, Venom, Ice Bomb, Smoke Bomb, Fire Bomb, Shovel, Bedroll, 4 Bones, Banana (Restores full health to the user; consumable) Erik Tyrvarr (Myrddyn) 19 years old male human Shaman Level 17 *Immune to Fragile* *Restoration* Power: 28 (17+11) Defense: 4 Health: 38/38 (8+16+9+5) Ether: 8/18 (17+1) Gold: 1 Equipment: Titanic Axe (WP:11, Earth- abd Light-elemental, has 1/6 chance of inflicting petrified-effect; axe), Lighter Armor (SP:4, immune to fragile-effect; bodywear), Barbarian's Boots (Natural Respite>Restoration; footwear) Inventory: Voltedge (WP: 13, Lightning-elemental; greatsword/longsword), Twin Axe (WP:5, Darkness-elemental dual strike-axe), Peacekeeper's Totem (Grants the "Diplomacy"-job trait; suitable to Erik only; accessory), Talisman of Enlightenment (Protects from hexed-effect; accessory), Hundred Hero Hymn (Battle Song that gives Inspired-effect to all allies for as long as the song is sung at the cost of 10 ether per round), Potion, 2 Tonics, Remedy, Grand Elixir (Restores full health and ether to target and remedies all negative effects), Phoenix Essence, Nostrum, Venom John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster and the Super Sleuth (Cutcobra) 32 year old male Sorcerer *Party Leader* Level 18 *Immune to Sealed* Power: 30 (18+12) (Spellpower: 35 (18+12+5)) Defense: 3 Health: 26/26 (5+17+4) Ether: 23/29 (5+17+1+5+1) Gold: 117 Equipment: Darkstar Wand (WP:12; has 1/2 chance of inflicting hexed-effect; Darkness-elemental wand), Spellbound Gloves (Spellpower +5, handwear), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed) Inventory: Rat Scepter (WP:3, 4x damage to enemies named “rat”; wand), Lovelorn Wand (WP 6, deals enamored-effect), Pitchfork of Abomination (WP:1, pierces all defenses including SP but breaks after one use; suitable to all classes), Harlot's Outfit (SP: 2, immune to poisoned; suitable for Witches, Sorcerers and Harlots; bodywear/footwear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Diamond (Light), Ruby (Fire), Aquamarine (Water), Grand Potion, Health Core, Grand Tonic, Elixir, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, Mead, Soma, Smoke Bomb, Seal Bomb (Deals 5 damage and the sealed-effect to all opponents when used.), Bedroll, Shovel, Wicked Perfume (Makes all male humanoid enemies enamored to the user, but makes all female humanoid enemies encouraged; consumable), Blue Jelly Karie Alderflask (Kintobor) Level 21 1/3 Witch *Poisonous Attacks* *Gain Double Experience* *Money Maker* Power: 31 (21+10) Defense: 2 Health: 37/37 (7+20+8+2) Ether: 14/27 (21+4+2) Gold: 7 Equipment: Grumpy's Staff (WP:10, fire-elemental staff), Ethereal Cloak (SP +2, Max. Ether +4), Glittering Dress (The user's job traits are replaced with those of a Harlot: Promiscuity, Flee and Money Maker; suitable to women only; bodywear), Medal of Valor (This pendant is awarded by the Bonapartes to those who show their heroism in the battle against piracy. The wearer gains double experience from battles.) Inventory: Oculoid Palm (WP: 11, successful hits lowers the target's level by 1; coils around the user's arm and mimics a tattoo outside of battle; whip), Sexy (WP: 8, Rapier, Disregards SP, usable by Knights and Rogues), Rusty Dagger (WP:2 - Deals the Badly Poisoned Effect, Breaks After 3 Uses), Doppleganger (Retribution: The user inflicts any negative effects he or she has on to the targeted enemy on successful hits.), Catsuit (Wearer has 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER and DAMAGE and Free Hits; suitable to women only; bodywear), Paper Doll (immunity to hexed; accessory), Trickster's Mask of the Elf (Accessory, changes user's appearance into an Elf), Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Newtity (Turns target into a newt for 1 round; costs 10 ether; usable by ex-Amphibians only), 2 Grand Potions, Tonic, 3 Grand Tonics, 2 Remedies, 2 Phoenix Essences, 2 Meads, 2 Nostrum, 8 Venoms, Water Bomb, Pumpkin Bomb (causes stunned, poisoned, asleep, blinded, sealed, and confused to all opponents when used), Military Grade Darkness Bomb, Love Potion (Makes target enamoured with user for three rounds), Tasty Pretzel (1/3 chance each of granting lucky, hastened and encouraged-effects upon consumption), Telescope, Bedroll Sorrow (Endgame) 428 years old undead Assassin Level 26 *Immune to Light and Blinded* *Encouraged* *Hastened* *Lucky* Power: 42 (26+15+1) Defense: 6 Health: 37/37 (7+25+5) Gold: 274 Equipment: Shark Jaw Scythe (WP 15/30 vs. aquatic monsters), Sticky Gloves (Increases the amount of gold stolen by 50% (rounded up), suitable for rogues and beast warriors; handwear), Night’s Helmet (SP:6, immunity to light and blinded; headwear) Inventory: Reaper’s Scythe (WP:33, damages only humanoids; suitable to assassins only; scythe), Mockthril Longbow (WP: 27 Ice and Darkness Elemental), Longsword (WP: 5), Armor of the Croise (SP: 1, +2 power; bodywear), Dark Cloak (Backwear, SP:1, Max Health +1, Power +1, suitable for rogues and barbarians), Archer's Hat (Artifact, headwear, Power +1, suitable for rangers), Disguise Kit (Allows the user to disguise them self as the opposite gender; accessory), 4 Grand Potions, 3 Health Cores, 2 Tonics, 2 Ether Cores, 5 Remedies, Neutralizer, 2 Phoenix Essences, 13 Meads, 13 Smelling Salts, 12 Nostrums, 2 Ambrosia, 2 Venoms, 2 Deadly Venoms, Chaotic Bomb (Causes 100 random elemental damage to all opponents), Bedroll, Silver Ore (Worth 60 gold) Thalion Dwinlas, the Super Sleuth (-obelix-) 213 years old male elf Sorcerer Level 23 *Immune to Fragile, Sealed, Poisoned, Bleeding* Power: 36 (23+13) Defense: 7 (3+4) Health: 31/31 (5+22+4) Ether: 24/33 (5+22+1+5) Gold: 1 Equipment: Alpha and Omega (WP:13, dual healing/spellcasting at the cost of 2 ether; staves), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether +5, Immunity to Sealed; bodywear), Emerald Hood (SP:4, Immunity to Fragile; headwear), Sterile Gloves (Immunity toPoisoned and Bleeding; handwear) Inventory: Weapons: Sleeper (WP:5, deals Asleep to enemies it hits, Hollow [Grand Potion], melee/throwing weapon), Ratsbane (WP:10, absorbs 2 health on successful hits, dagger), Batarang (WP:13 darkness-elemental, throwing weapon) Artifacts: Duplovian Helmet of the Guard (SP:2, Immune to Magic and Healing; headwear), Dragoon's Helmet (SP:3, makes wearer absorb attacks of the element of their pet dragon, gaining health instead of damage; suitable for dragoons; headwear), Cloak of Espionage (Allows the wearer to examine enemy stats before a battle; backwear), Bumble Fanshirt (SP:1, vermin with level less than half of the wearer's are scared and won't directly attack the wearer; bodywear) Gems: Zirconia (Gem containing all elements; cannot be merged into equipment) Scrolls: Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Frailty, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sleep Consumables: 3 Grand Potions, Grand Tonic, Ether Core, 2 Remedies, Elixir, 2 Phoenix Essences, Mead, 3 Nostrums, 2 Smelling Salts, Copy of The Eubric Herald (Gives the target the transcended andinspired-effects for the duration of one battle), Venom, Smoke Bomb, Sleep Bomb (Deals 5 damage and the asleep-effect to all opponents when used.), Bone Tools: Magic Compass, Shovel, Bedroll Noel Ziegfried (NPC, controlled by Cutcobra) 15 years old male half-elven Mage Level 10 *Protected from Free Hits* Power: 19 (10+9) Defense: 0 Health: 15/15 (5+9+1) Ether: 5/15 (5+9+1) Gold: 274 Equipment: Rawr (WP:9, dagger), Buffoon's Hat (Prevents anyone from taking the wearer seriously; protects from Free Hits unless the wearer is the last hero standing; headwear) Inventory: Heirloom Dagger (WP: 3), Pointy Cap (Max. health +1, Max. ether +1; immunity to sealed; usable by Noel only; headwear), Sharkskin Armour (SP +1, immune to Water; bodywear), Amethyst (Darkness), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Scroll of Blinding, Big Box (Summon to cause 50 damage and stunned-effect to the target at the cost of 5 ether), Feather of Flight (Allows the user to flee a battle once) Followers: Professor Abbot Watt, History & Archaeology Joy, female student Willow, male "Midget" Missing: 63/73 Found: 10/73 Saved: 0/73 Dead: 1/73

Ellaria can't help but to chuckle at Boomingham's blight. She remembered distinctively the last time Boomingham drank tea. "Tea for me too, please. De'kra, please show the Vibrator to these gentlemen."

"Well, I don't want anyone calling me unreasonable, so we have struck a deal, Mr. Dickens. Here is 150 gold for you."

QM Note: Sorry, I have another busy Saturday in a long line of busy Saturdays coming up, so the updates will continue on Sunday. The teenage couple looks at each other in doubt. Erik's words have obviously gotten them thinking. "Sorry, but I, like, just don't trust you. But maybe if you found my bff, Melissa, and brought her here, I could totally reconsider." "Or we could just cram them into the big box and send them on their merry way right away." "No way I'm getting into any sized box with you, Zany Ziegfried!"

What, have you discovered my true identity as the President of Finland? I'm glad, the country's affairs have been going downhill since I've had to dedicate so much time to this game... If you are talking about my gender, however, anyone can see it from my profile.

No, I think reaching Level 50 is a sufficient achievement for such a reward.