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Drummer Boy
Senior Scribe
USA
395 Posts |
 Posted - 10 Nov 2002 : 03:59:20
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I have never played AD&D, but I have become intrigued with the idea of learning to play it after joining the Forums and hearing other people talk about it, so could anyone explain to me how to get started playing AD&D  (such as what materials I need, etc.) I have a little knowledge of the AD&D rules from playing some Forgotten Relams computer games such as Icewind Dale and Baldur's Gate, but could someone just explain to me how to get started
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Alaundo
Head Moderator
United Kingdom
5695 Posts |
Posted - 10 Nov 2002 : 09:40:14
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Well Met Drummerboy,
Have you purely been introduced to the Realms etc. just through computer games?
The best thing for you to do is to put AD&D aside and start with D&D (3rd edition), although the "Advanced" has been dropped, D&D 3rd edition is now the latest...... its a long story, dont worry about it  ).
First you need to get a few people together and decide who is going to DM (run the game). To be a DM, you will need:
Dungeon Masters Guide
Players Handbook
Monster Manual
...as the basics anyway. There are many more rulebooks and accessories to enhance DMing. As a player you will just need a Players Handbook (again, there are additional supplements for Classes etc.)
..oh, and youll need some dice too!
THEN you need the FR 3rd edition stuff. Theres a page on this site which lists them and gives a brief overview: http://www.candlekeep.com/bookshelf/3rded.htm
For a complete list of all current and previous (AD&D and D&D) FR products, go to Tethtorils Bookshelf: http://www.candlekeep.com/bookshelf/bookshelf.htm
Hope this helps.
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Alaundo
Candlekeep Forums Head Moderator
Candlekeep - The Library of Forgotten Realms Lore
http://www.candlekeep.com -- Candlekeep Forum Code of Conduct
An Introduction to Candlekeep - by Ed Greenwood
The Candlekeep Compendium - Tomes of Realmslore penned by Scribes of Candlekeep
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Frey
Learned Scribe
130 Posts |
Posted - 10 Nov 2002 : 21:06:33
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Wel met Alaundo,
I'm quite sure your answer is correct and comprohensive. However, when the question is about starting to play, well it sounds a bit expensive to buy all that just hoping to experience you like the game (but risking not to).
I presume there must be a way to get acquanted with the game without having to buy the whole lot? e.g. playing in some D&D-weekend nearby, with some more experienced players (who might want to share their books for the weekend)?
Has someone a suggestion for Drummerboy456?
and ... be carefull Drummerboy: this is really dangerous stuff, you might get to like it. Playing against people beats any PC-game. |
- Imagine ... there's no imagination. -
(remember Frey is just a PC) |
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Drummer Boy
Senior Scribe
USA
395 Posts |
Posted - 11 Nov 2002 : 03:55:00
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Thanks to both of you. Well, to answer your question Alaundo, I did get started on the Realms just from the computer games. Well, anyway, I have some dice...let's see, I have a 6-sided die, 2 10-sided dice, a 4-sided die, a 12-sided die, an 8-sided die, and a 20-sided die. Are there any other dice I need And can I get the Monster Manual, Players Handbook, and Dungeon Masters Guide at a bookstoreIf not, where can I get itThanks again to both of you. |
Edited by - Drummer Boy on 11 Nov 2002 03:55:42 |
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Lord Rad
Great Reader
United Kingdom
2080 Posts |
Posted - 11 Nov 2002 : 08:21:11
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Well Drummerboy, luckily youre in the USA so you shouldnt have any problems getting hold of D&D material. Most bookstores stock them and theyll definately be in dedicated hobby stores.
Be grateful that you arent in the UK like me, where WotC have abandoned us faithful D&D\FR fans by sending out a trickle of products, months late, to a scattering of stores! Well done Wizards, thats the way to promote the hobby!   Bring back TSR, now THEY knew how to distribute and advertise!!
GGRRRRRRRRR |
Lord Rad
"What? No, I wasn't reading your module. I was just looking at the pictures"
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The Great Drizzt
Learned Scribe
USA
280 Posts |
Posted - 11 Nov 2002 : 08:38:43
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Negitive!
AD&D second is alot easier, 3rd is way to difficult to understand, plus second have many more option for it, lot easier to get a hold of too, start looking for garage sales that have books 2nd or 3rd drummerboy, or game/book stores that have Used books for sale, great way to get started, oh and you'll become addicted really fast!
The Great Drizzt |
"Don't poke Drizzt, 'tis highly unsociable!" Drizzt Do'Urden -BG1 |
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Mumadar Ibn Huzal
Master of Realmslore
1338 Posts |
Posted - 11 Nov 2002 : 09:40:45
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Strong comment there Drizzt...
From someone who knows the rules of AD&D (very) well and is not all too familiar with the rules of 3e, your point of view seems valid.
However, having played both AD&D for several years and having been quite familiar with the maze of rules wich were more often then not conflicting with similar rules in other gameproducts (anyone ever reviewed the weapon-specialization rules from the PHB, Complete Book of Fighters and the Player's Option series? They tell each a different story), and now being similarly familiar with the 3e rules, I can only come to one conclusion. Up to this point 3e is easier and simpler to handle then 2e. The most simple example is that a 20 is always a good roll and a 1 a bad roll. This opposed to 2e where for the saving throws this was completely upside down...
Besides all the options presented in the various handbooks and in the Player's Option series for 2nd edition, the rules for 3e are much more flexible and allow for greater flexibility without becoming over powerfull compared to other characters.
The other advantage 3e has is that it is the current range and any new products will cater to that edition. Of course the 2e has the advantage of price now that the line has stopped, however the supply of these products is dwindling and will not be continued or supported other then by fan-created material.
The whole discussion has been held before when 2e replaced 1e. There will always be a small core of people that want to stick to the edition they're familiar with. There are still groups playing 1st edition rules, and there will be for a long time groups playing 2nd edition rules.
Which one to prefer? If you're new to the game and are looking for other people to play with, 3e is probably your best option. More and more people are playing that edition of the game and that makes it easier to step in. If you're tight on budget and know a group of people playing 2nd edition, go for that option.
Both options will get you into the greatest roleplaying games off all. And that's what it's about. |
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Drummer Boy
Senior Scribe
USA
395 Posts |
Posted - 12 Nov 2002 : 03:37:07
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Well, Ok, thanks to all of you for your help.
After listening to your separate arguments, I think I'm going to start out with 3rd Edition(sorry, Drizzt ). It just seems like the best and easiest choice to start out with, especially since all the material is still new and available.
To Rad: I feel sorry for you. I mean, its WoTC's own loss that they have loyal customers in the UK who can't get material (It makes me mad, too). Have you ever considered getting material on the internet at like amazon.com or Ebay or something Just a suggestion.
Again, thanks to all of you for your help. |
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The Great Drizzt
Learned Scribe
USA
280 Posts |
Posted - 12 Nov 2002 : 05:47:43
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Well Mumadar, your right, but I already know that 3rd edition will have the same problems.
Drummerboy, thats cool, it's your perogitive anyways right?
The Great Drizzt |
"Don't poke Drizzt, 'tis highly unsociable!" Drizzt Do'Urden -BG1 |
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Lord Rad
Great Reader
United Kingdom
2080 Posts |
Posted - 12 Nov 2002 : 11:41:19
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If only it were that easy Drummerboy! Amazon.co.uk have problems getting the stuff sent to them so its quite some time til they get it in stock too But I DID get a package from them yesterday with Thousand Orcs and a few other novels that ive been trying to find, Realms of Shadows being one, which I think was released back in early summer and i STILL havent seen it in any shops As well as large bookstores, in my city we have two dedicated hobby stores, which back in the good old days of TSR, stocked everything only a couple of days after the release date!!! D&D was available in so many places but now I cant even get it in those hobby stores!
I honestly dont know that WotC (or more likely Hasbro!!!) are thinking! Its causing so much damage to D&D! Not only are they stopping D&D fans from getting the material, but theres almost zero chance of anyone wanting to start playing the game. |
Lord Rad
"What? No, I wasn't reading your module. I was just looking at the pictures"
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Kitira Gildragon
Learned Scribe
USA
191 Posts |
Posted - 12 Nov 2002 : 14:06:50
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quote:
Originally posted by Rad
Well Drummerboy, luckily youre in the USA so you shouldnt have any problems getting hold of D&D material. Most bookstores stock them and theyll definately be in dedicated hobby stores.
Be grateful that you arent in the UK like me, where WotC have abandoned us faithful D&D\FR fans by sending out a trickle of products, months late, to a scattering of stores!
Rad, I live in the USA, and trust me, only two book stores had AD&D stuff. the on in PA had a book on Raven's Bluff and that was it! I only wish people here still appreciated it enough to keep some products available or on the shelf. *remembers when she had to steal her father's manuals for any information at all* *sigh* Not one book store (aside from Barnes and Nobles) has any D&D stuff worth reading. Please don't assume that it's readily available. It's not. |
-Space for rent- |
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Bellua Aeneus Lacerta
Senior Scribe
USA
428 Posts |
Posted - 12 Nov 2002 : 22:17:18
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| Waldenbooks seems to have the biggest selection of D&D stuff around here.(central NY) |
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Drummer Boy
Senior Scribe
USA
395 Posts |
Posted - 13 Nov 2002 : 14:37:59
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quote:
Originally posted by Rad
If only it were that easy Drummerboy! Amazon.co.uk have problems getting the stuff sent to them so its quite some time til they get it in stock too But I DID get a package from them yesterday with Thousand Orcs and a few other novels that ive been trying to find, Realms of Shadows being one, which I think was released back in early summer and i STILL havent seen it in any shops As well as large bookstores, in my city we have two dedicated hobby stores, which back in the good old days of TSR, stocked everything only a couple of days after the release date!!! D&D was available in so many places but now I cant even get it in those hobby stores!
I honestly dont know that WotC (or more likely Hasbro!!!) are thinking! Its causing so much damage to D&D! Not only are they stopping D&D fans from getting the material, but theres almost zero chance of anyone wanting to start playing the game.
Well, that sucks, Rad. We should complain to WotC(or Hasbro). Well, anyway, that was just my suggestion. |
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Drummer Boy
Senior Scribe
USA
395 Posts |
Posted - 13 Nov 2002 : 14:41:25
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quote:
Originally posted by Kitira Gildragon
quote:
Originally posted by Rad
Well Drummerboy, luckily youre in the USA so you shouldnt have any problems getting hold of D&D material. Most bookstores stock them and theyll definately be in dedicated hobby stores.
Be grateful that you arent in the UK like me, where WotC have abandoned us faithful D&D\FR fans by sending out a trickle of products, months late, to a scattering of stores!
Rad, I live in the USA, and trust me, only two book stores had AD&D stuff. the on in PA had a book on Raven's Bluff and that was it! I only wish people here still appreciated it enough to keep some products available or on the shelf. *remembers when she had to steal her father's manuals for any information at all* *sigh* Not one book store (aside from Barnes and Nobles) has any D&D stuff worth reading. Please don't assume that it's readily available. It's not.
Well, thanks for your help. I noticed some bookstores around here that had Monster Manuals(before I knew about D&D)and you mentioned that Barnes and Noble has stuff worth reading, so I think I'll go there. |
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Kitira Gildragon
Learned Scribe
USA
191 Posts |
Posted - 13 Nov 2002 : 16:28:58
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quote:
Originally posted by drummerboy465
Well, thanks for your help. I noticed some bookstores around here that had Monster Manuals(before I knew about D&D)and you mentioned that Barnes and Noble has stuff worth reading, so I think I'll go there.
The books were just what they are- books. They were not *manuals* for DnD, just so you know. B&N *might* (GL) have gotten them in stock, but I don't remember seeing any then. (It was a while ago... I wanted to loot the place, which is the only reason I remember.  ) I hope that might clarify what I meant and hope it helps you.  |
-Space for rent- |
Edited by - Kitira Gildragon on 13 Nov 2002 16:30:56 |
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Mumadar Ibn Huzal
Master of Realmslore
1338 Posts |
Posted - 13 Nov 2002 : 17:41:17
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| A couple of months ago, when I was living in the States (Huntsville AL), I bought and ordered 'manuals' at B&N. Their service was pretty good and quick. Not excellent, but nothing to complain either. They only kept some of the basic rule-books in stock. All other stuff had to be on order. |
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lowtech
Learned Scribe
USA
315 Posts |
Posted - 13 Nov 2002 : 18:52:41
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I don't think many of the larger chains stock them anymore because people were always shoplifting. Hobby shops sometimes have a good selection, check out comic book stores. If there is a Comic Box where you live, you should be in good shape. |
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Drummer Boy
Senior Scribe
USA
395 Posts |
Posted - 14 Nov 2002 : 05:04:17
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In response to Kitira Gildragon: Ok, I see what you meant. Barnes and Noble does have mainly just books in stock, and not many manuals.
In response to Mumadar and Lowtech: Ok, I think I'll order them at Barnes and Noble or get them at a Hobby Shop(I don't know of any comic book stores near me.)
Thanks to all of you(again.) |
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Kitira Gildragon
Learned Scribe
USA
191 Posts |
Posted - 14 Nov 2002 : 12:51:43
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Haha! *laughs* I'm just happy I could actually have an answer to a question for once instead of having to ask them all!  Ask Mumadar-I have a million and one questions 24/7
Happy to be of help |
-Space for rent- |
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Mumadar Ibn Huzal
Master of Realmslore
1338 Posts |
Posted - 14 Nov 2002 : 14:44:52
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<Mumadar to Kitira> "You, questions? Neah... You're just as curious as a Kender in Toyland." 
Anyway, I don't mind the questions if they help to better understand and enjoy the game. Gives me an excuse to use my brain for something else then work related stuff. |
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Kitira Gildragon
Learned Scribe
USA
191 Posts |
Posted - 14 Nov 2002 : 16:34:39
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quote:
Originally posted by Mumadar Ibn Huzal
"You, questions? Neah... You're just as curious as a Kender in Toyland."
Kender?  *sniff* Just be happy I haven't started talking like one yet |
-Space for rent- |
Edited by - Kitira Gildragon on 14 Nov 2002 16:38:24 |
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Darwin Tenderfoot
Seeker
USA
57 Posts |
Posted - 14 Nov 2002 : 17:29:16
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Ok this is my problem, my step-dad owns all of the 2nd edition books. I want to get into 3rd edition but I need to know how much the prices are and the stuff I need. (I want to play a pbem with Mumadar so I have decided to buy 3rd edition books.) I have to wait till Christmas though because I am laid up with surgery and cant work. So all my christmas money is going towards 3rd ed books.
Darwin |
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Mumadar Ibn Huzal
Master of Realmslore
1338 Posts |
Posted - 15 Nov 2002 : 10:08:37
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Hi Darwin,
I have another player (or was there more then 1...) who doesn't have the 3e books. They are not an immediate requirement to start playing in a PbeM (at least not one run by me). All you need is a good character idea and description of what you want. I'll be able to help out filling in the details reagrding the rules.
Of course I would advise to acquire somehow a set of basic rules for 3e, it never hurts to have them, but they're not an immediate necessity. |
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Darwin Tenderfoot
Seeker
USA
57 Posts |
Posted - 15 Nov 2002 : 16:47:44
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Well, when can I start playing Mumadar? But, you will have to help me a little bit.
Darwin |
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Mumadar Ibn Huzal
Master of Realmslore
1338 Posts |
Posted - 15 Nov 2002 : 16:57:18
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send an e-mail to the Silver Marches address in my signature file, and you'll be subscried to the mailing list. Upon subscription, you'll receive a document with information for the players.
After reading through that, send me your character idea, and I'll help you working out the details. |
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Kitira Gildragon
Learned Scribe
USA
191 Posts |
Posted - 15 Nov 2002 : 17:04:20
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quote:
Originally posted by Darwin Tenderfoot
Well, when can I start playing Mumadar? But, you will have to help me a little bit.
Darwin
I too am new to PBeM's and have Mumadar as DM. I wouldn't be too concerned with rules right now, only because most of the fun is in the roleplaying. I think if I screw up (as I already have) someone will tell me about it. If you have questions, just ask. I do! MUAHAHAHA!!!
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-Space for rent- |
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Drummer Boy
Senior Scribe
USA
395 Posts |
Posted - 28 Dec 2002 : 16:59:18
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| Ok, I have another question. I want to go get a Monster Manual, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Player's Handbook, but when I found them on the internet, they all had a Dungeons & Dragons logo on the front, so I wasn't sure if they applied to the Forgotten Realms or not. So my question is, if a book has a Dungeons & Dragons logo instead of a Forgotten Realms logo, does it still apply to the Forgotten Realms? Also, is there a different version of those three books I mentioned for each edition? |
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Lord Rad
Great Reader
United Kingdom
2080 Posts |
Posted - 28 Dec 2002 : 17:19:50
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The books you mention are the core rulebooks for D&D. They are absolutely necessary to play D&D and FR, but they are not related in any way to the Forgotten Realms campaign setting inself. I suppose that doesnt sound too clear .... what i mean is that you will not find any specific FR material or lore within those books but to play a game set in FR, you will need them for the rules.
Hope that helps |
Lord Rad
"What? No, I wasn't reading your module. I was just looking at the pictures"
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Rellen Amostirren
Acolyte
United Kingdom
26 Posts |
Posted - 29 Dec 2002 : 22:44:41
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Well met Drummer boy, just to give you a taster for what you have ahead, WOTC have devised a fast play version of the 3rd edition rules. This is just the basics, but it will give you a head start. Plus its free, so you cant go wrong!!
You have any questions dont hesitate!!
http://www.playdnd.com/fastplay.asp
PS dont know the rules in here for posting links but since its an official WOTC page and Im helping out, try not to lock me in irons!!
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"Stealing teeth and still leaving folks with a smile!!" |
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Drummer Boy
Senior Scribe
USA
395 Posts |
Posted - 30 Dec 2002 : 04:53:40
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Thanks for your help, Rad and Rellen Amostirren.
To Rad:
I thought that what you said was probably the case but I decided not to buy those books because I wasn't exactly sure. Thanks for clarifying that, though.
To Rellen Amostirren:
I was a little too nervous to download that Fast Play game off the internet for fear of a virus or something, but thanks for helping out anyway. Actually, I found a Fast Play game at the back of a novel I was reading (The Spine of the World) so I intend to try it out once I'm finished reading the book. I just need to find some friends who would be interested to play.
PS I don't think there are any rules for posting links because I see other members do it all the time and I've never heard of any rules pertaining to that. |
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Alaundo
Head Moderator
United Kingdom
5695 Posts |
Posted - 30 Dec 2002 : 10:35:02
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Well Met
quote:
Originally posted by Rellen Amostirren
PS dont know the rules in here for posting links but since its an official WOTC page and Im helping out, try not to lock me in irons!!
There are no hard rules for posting links, as you will find that many external links have been posted and also some of the forum members signatures contain links to various other web sites. As long as links arent posted randomly and to irrelevent or indeed offensive sites then we will allow it. |
Alaundo
Candlekeep Forums Head Moderator
Candlekeep - The Library of Forgotten Realms Lore
http://www.candlekeep.com -- Candlekeep Forum Code of Conduct
An Introduction to Candlekeep - by Ed Greenwood
The Candlekeep Compendium - Tomes of Realmslore penned by Scribes of Candlekeep
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Question about AD&D
