ARCANUM:Of Steamworks & Magick Obscura

The Journey of a Lifetime Awaits You

Find this week's riddle at the bottom of the page.

Come. An entire continent of wonder and diversity lies before you.

To Build a World
Big. That's what we wanted when we designed Arcanum. And did we ever accomplish that goal! Arcanum is one of the largest continuous RPG worlds ever to be created. We have estimated that it would take a player 2 real days to walk from one side of the continent to the other. But of course, the world map can be accessed at any time for those wanting a quicker method of travel.

Populating a land the size of Arcanum was both very exciting and very challenging. The areas you will visit are as diverse as the people of Arcanum. Grand palaces, ancient temples, gothic dungeons, dwarven mines, lush elven forests, industrialized cities and small western towns are all part of the vast continent that is Arcanum.

And as with all things in Arcanum, the choice of where you go and how you travel are left up to you. You can choose to travel the known routes, travelling from town to town, or strike out on your own in any direction. Either way, you will undoubtedly encounter the wild creatures of Arcanum, so stay alert to danger when travelling overland. So come, embark upon a journey through the magnificent land of Arcanum.

A Little Something for Everyone
The diversity of Arcanum is sure to appeal to all sorts of travelers. Are you a refined tourist, preferring the luxury of fine hotels and guided tours to that of the open wilderness? Or are you more the adventurous type? Does the thought of vast, uncharted territory make you run for your knapsack? Arcanum is sure to offer the perfect escape, whatever your preference.

For those seeking refinement, a visit to Tarant, the great, industrialized city that never sleeps is a must. Where gentlemen of discerning taste may enjoy the exclusive atmosphere of The Gentlemen's Club and ladies may amuse themselves shopping for exotic imports along Tarant's main boulevard. Those of a scholarly bent will find a wealth of knowledge available along Tarant's university district, which boasts an impressive library and museum. And for those seeking civilized adventure, a trip aboard Tarant's famous steam locomotive or one the many sailing vessels bound for distant locals may be just the ticket.

Looking for something a little more low-key? Perhaps balmy Ashbury would be more to your liking. The quiet cobblestone walks, cultivated palm trees and the wharf-side shopping district give it an old world charm that is second to none. And for those seeking a thrill, rumors of ghostly hauntings abound at the site of one of Ashbury's abandoned mansions.

Perhaps peace and quiet is more to your liking? Then you must visit the quiet, rolling hills of Roseborough, where a converted mansion serves as an elegant bed and breakfast. Nestled amongst a quiet sheep herding community and boasting the infamous Ring of Brodgar, it's the perfect vacation retreat for those wishing to relax and get away from it all.

And for those who prefer adventure to luxury accommodations, Arcanum has much to offer. Embark upon expeditions deep into Arcanum's uncharted territory where treacherous mountain passes, unyielding swamps and vast deserts stand ready, awaiting your conquest. Perhaps you will choose to seek out Qintarra, the wondrous tree city of the elves, or Tulla, the hidden city of mages. Whatever your destination, ancient ruins, lost dwarven mines and secret grottos containing hidden dangers and untold treasures are sure to be found along the way.

So come, visit the land of magick and mystery, of technology and wonder, of wild frontiers and refined aristocracy. Journey to Arcanum.


Riddle #4

Terrible creature, horrible sight
You cannot escape me, try as you might
If even a scratch I do leave on your skin,
You'll go stark raving mad, killed from within.

What am I?

__ __ __    __ __ __ __ __    __ __ __ __ __ __
















-15 -7 +2    -7 +14 -5 +6 +7    +2 -17 -17 +6 -4 +1

Hint: The answer to this riddle can be found in "The World" section of this website.



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