Armsman

help age
AGE
AGE
Age on DSL is for roleplaying purposes only and has no visable game
affect.  Different Races have different life spans so ages vary.  To
increase your age, go to the trainer and type "Practice age".  You can
increase your age but you can NEVER decrease it.  Practicing your age
DOES NOT cost ANY practices.
TABLE OF AGES:
Race      Teen      Young Adult   Adult     Middle Aged   Old
Human     17-19     20-29         30-45     46-60         61-85
Goblin    17-19     20-29         30-45     46-60         61-85
Dwarf     40-60     61-120        121-250   251-350       350+
Elf       40-90     91-175        176-300   301-500       501+
Ogre      30-80     81-110        111-180   181-210       211-250
Minotaur  30-60     61-80         81-115    116-145       146-175
Gnome     35-85     86-110        111-190   191-220       221-240
Dragon    107-300   300-700       700-1.5k  1.5k-3k       3k-5k
Kender    20-29     30-55         56-88     89-131        131-160
Yinn      20-30     31-50         51-70     71-90         91-110

Retraining and reclassing resets age

help axe
EXOTIC WEAPONS WEAPON WEAPONSMASTER AXE DAGGER FLAIL MACE POLEARM SPEAR STAFF SWORD WHIP
Each weapon skill applies to a specific group of armaments, and determines how
well a character fights with a particular weapon.  The weaponsmaster group
provides talent in all weapons (save exotics), from chair legs to halberds.
The weapon skills consist of the following:
weaponsmaster   skill group of all weapons listed below (save exotic weaponry)
axe             the use of axes, ranging from hand to great (but not halberds)
dagger          the use of knives and daggers, and other stabbing weapons
flail           skill in ball-and-chain type weapons
mace            this skill includes clubs and hammers as well as maces
polearm         the use of pole weapons (except spears), including halberds
spear           this skill covers long pointed weapons, but not polearms
staff           the staff skill covers long blunt weapons
sword           the warrior's standby, from rapier to claymore
whip            the use of whips, chains, and bullwhips
exotic          the use of strange magical weapons
The exotic skill cannot be purchased, and is dependent solely upon level.

help bash
BASH
The bash skill is a warrior talent, a brute-force attack designed to knock
your foe to his knees.  Its success depends on many factors, including the
bash rating, your weight, and the size of your opponent.  Bashing a dragon
is generally not a wise idea.

help dagger
EXOTIC WEAPONS WEAPON WEAPONSMASTER AXE DAGGER FLAIL MACE POLEARM SPEAR STAFF SWORD WHIP
Each weapon skill applies to a specific group of armaments, and determines how
well a character fights with a particular weapon.  The weaponsmaster group
provides talent in all weapons (save exotics), from chair legs to halberds.
The weapon skills consist of the following:
weaponsmaster   skill group of all weapons listed below (save exotic weaponry)
axe             the use of axes, ranging from hand to great (but not halberds)
dagger          the use of knives and daggers, and other stabbing weapons
flail           skill in ball-and-chain type weapons
mace            this skill includes clubs and hammers as well as maces
polearm         the use of pole weapons (except spears), including halberds
spear           this skill covers long pointed weapons, but not polearms
staff           the staff skill covers long blunt weapons
sword           the warrior's standby, from rapier to claymore
whip            the use of whips, chains, and bullwhips
exotic          the use of strange magical weapons
The exotic skill cannot be purchased, and is dependent solely upon level.

help dig
DIG BURY
Syntax: Dig
Syntax: Dig <direction>
Syntax: Bury <object name>
Dig is a skill which allows you to dig up
items that are buried OR dig out exits
which may exist. Please note that a shovel
will GREATLY improve your chances of finding
buried items.
Bury is a command which allows you to bury an
object.  Be careful, You might not be able to
dig up the object later on.

help 'enhanced damage'
'ENHANCED DAMAGE'
Warriors and skilled thieves can become skilled enough in combat that they are
able to inflict more damage than other classes.  Enhanced damage is checked
for with each hit, although with a low skill, the chance of receiving a bonus
is very low indeed.

help flail
EXOTIC WEAPONS WEAPON WEAPONSMASTER AXE DAGGER FLAIL MACE POLEARM SPEAR STAFF SWORD WHIP
Each weapon skill applies to a specific group of armaments, and determines how
well a character fights with a particular weapon.  The weaponsmaster group
provides talent in all weapons (save exotics), from chair legs to halberds.
The weapon skills consist of the following:
weaponsmaster   skill group of all weapons listed below (save exotic weaponry)
axe             the use of axes, ranging from hand to great (but not halberds)
dagger          the use of knives and daggers, and other stabbing weapons
flail           skill in ball-and-chain type weapons
mace            this skill includes clubs and hammers as well as maces
polearm         the use of pole weapons (except spears), including halberds
spear           this skill covers long pointed weapons, but not polearms
staff           the staff skill covers long blunt weapons
sword           the warrior's standby, from rapier to claymore
whip            the use of whips, chains, and bullwhips
exotic          the use of strange magical weapons
The exotic skill cannot be purchased, and is dependent solely upon level.

help Mace
EXOTIC WEAPONS WEAPON WEAPONSMASTER AXE DAGGER FLAIL MACE POLEARM SPEAR STAFF SWORD WHIP
Each weapon skill applies to a specific group of armaments, and determines how
well a character fights with a particular weapon.  The weaponsmaster group
provides talent in all weapons (save exotics), from chair legs to halberds.
The weapon skills consist of the following:
weaponsmaster   skill group of all weapons listed below (save exotic weaponry)
axe             the use of axes, ranging from hand to great (but not halberds)
dagger          the use of knives and daggers, and other stabbing weapons
flail           skill in ball-and-chain type weapons
mace            this skill includes clubs and hammers as well as maces
polearm         the use of pole weapons (except spears), including halberds
spear           this skill covers long pointed weapons, but not polearms
staff           the staff skill covers long blunt weapons
sword           the warrior's standby, from rapier to claymore
whip            the use of whips, chains, and bullwhips
exotic          the use of strange magical weapons
The exotic skill cannot be purchased, and is dependent solely upon level.

help Parry
PARRY
If at first you fail to dodge, block it.  Parry is useful for deflecting 
attacks, and is successful more often than dodge.  Parry requires a weapon for
full success, the hand-to-hand skill may also be used, but results in reduced
damage instead of no damage.  The best chance of parrying occurs when the
defender is skilled in both his and his opponent's weapon type.

help Polearm
EXOTIC WEAPONS WEAPON WEAPONSMASTER AXE DAGGER FLAIL MACE POLEARM SPEAR STAFF SWORD WHIP
Each weapon skill applies to a specific group of armaments, and determines how
well a character fights with a particular weapon.  The weaponsmaster group
provides talent in all weapons (save exotics), from chair legs to halberds.
The weapon skills consist of the following:
weaponsmaster   skill group of all weapons listed below (save exotic weaponry)
axe             the use of axes, ranging from hand to great (but not halberds)
dagger          the use of knives and daggers, and other stabbing weapons
flail           skill in ball-and-chain type weapons
mace            this skill includes clubs and hammers as well as maces
polearm         the use of pole weapons (except spears), including halberds
spear           this skill covers long pointed weapons, but not polearms
staff           the staff skill covers long blunt weapons
sword           the warrior's standby, from rapier to claymore
whip            the use of whips, chains, and bullwhips
exotic          the use of strange magical weapons
The exotic skill cannot be purchased, and is dependent solely upon level.

help recall
RECALL /
RECALL /
Syntax: RECALL
RECALL prays to the Gods for miraculous transportation from where you are
back to the Temple of your home kingdom.  '/' is a synonym for RECALL.
If you RECALL during combat, you will lose experience (more than for fleeing),
and you will have a chance of failing (again, more than for fleeing).  This
chance is based on your recall skill, although a 100% recall does not 
insure success.
RECALL costs half of your movement points.
RECALL doesn't work in certain god-forsaken rooms.  Characters afflicted by a
curse may not recall at all.

help rescue
FLEE RESCUE
FLEE RESCUE
Syntax: flee
Syntax: rescue   <character>
Once you start a fight, you can't just walk away from it.  If the fight
is not going well, you can attempt to FLEE, or another character can
RESCUE you.  (You can also RECALL, but this is less likely to work,
and costs more experience points, then fleeing).
If you lose your link during a fight, then your character will keep
fighting, and will attempt to RECALL from time to time.  Your chances
of making the recall are reduced, and you will lose much more experience.

RESCUE
A friend in need is a friend indeed.  And when in combat, a warrior with
the rescue skill is just the friend you need.  Rescue allows you to intercede
in combat, protecting weaker characters from bodily harm. Hopefully the
favor will be returned.  Success in rescuing depends on the skill rating, as
well as a comparison of level, dexterity, and speed between the character and
the target. (note: you rescue a friend, not the monster)

help scroll
BRANDISH QUAFF RECITE ZAP WAND STAFF SCROLL POTION
BRANDISH QUAFF RECITE ZAP WAND STAFF SCROLL POTION
Syntax: brandish <target>
Syntax: quaff    <potion>
Syntax: recite   <scroll> <target>
Syntax: zap      <target>
Syntax: zap
BRANDISH brandishes a magical staff.  QUAFF quaffs a magical potion (as opposed
to DRINK, which drinks mundane liquids).  RECITE recites a magical scroll; the
<target> is optional, depending on the nature of the scroll.  ZAP zaps a
magical wand at a target.  If the target is not specified, and you are fighting
someone, then that character is used for a target.
You must HOLD a wand or a staff before using BRANDISH or ZAP.
All of these commands use up their objects.  Potions and scrolls have a single
charge.  Wands and staves have multiple charges.  When a magical object has no
more charges, it will be consumed.
These commands may require an item skill to be successful, see the help entries
on the skills scrolls, staves, and wands for more information.

SCROLL 'SCROLL COMMAND'
SCROLL 'SCROLL COMMAND'
Syntax: scroll
Syntax: scroll <number>
This command changes the number of lines the mud sends you in a page (the 
default is 24 lines).  Change this to a higher number for larger screen
sizes, or to 0 to disabling paging.

Allows you to recite scrolls to cast the spell inscribed on them.

help 'Shield Block'
'SHIELD BLOCK'
Shield block is a rather fancy name for the art of parrying with a shield.
Characters with no shield block skill will not be able to defend themselves
well with a shield.  All classes may learn shield block, but only warriors and
clerics are good at it.  Beware, flails ignore shield blocking attempts, and
whips have an easier time getting around them.  Axes may split shields in two.
Shield block now works against charges from other rooms.

help spear
EXOTIC WEAPONS WEAPON WEAPONSMASTER AXE DAGGER FLAIL MACE POLEARM SPEAR STAFF SWORD WHIP
Each weapon skill applies to a specific group of armaments, and determines how
well a character fights with a particular weapon.  The weaponsmaster group
provides talent in all weapons (save exotics), from chair legs to halberds.
The weapon skills consist of the following:
weaponsmaster   skill group of all weapons listed below (save exotic weaponry)
axe             the use of axes, ranging from hand to great (but not halberds)
dagger          the use of knives and daggers, and other stabbing weapons
flail           skill in ball-and-chain type weapons
mace            this skill includes clubs and hammers as well as maces
polearm         the use of pole weapons (except spears), including halberds
spear           this skill covers long pointed weapons, but not polearms
staff           the staff skill covers long blunt weapons
sword           the warrior's standby, from rapier to claymore
whip            the use of whips, chains, and bullwhips
exotic          the use of strange magical weapons
The exotic skill cannot be purchased, and is dependent solely upon level.

EXOTIC WEAPONS WEAPON WEAPONSMASTER AXE DAGGER FLAIL MACE POLEARM SPEAR STAFF SWORD WHIP
Each weapon skill applies to a specific group of armaments, and determines how
well a character fights with a particular weapon.  The weaponsmaster group
provides talent in all weapons (save exotics), from chair legs to halberds.
The weapon skills consist of the following:
weaponsmaster   skill group of all weapons listed below (save exotic weaponry)
axe             the use of axes, ranging from hand to great (but not halberds)
dagger          the use of knives and daggers, and other stabbing weapons
flail           skill in ball-and-chain type weapons
mace            this skill includes clubs and hammers as well as maces
polearm         the use of pole weapons (except spears), including halberds
spear           this skill covers long pointed weapons, but not polearms
staff           the staff skill covers long blunt weapons
sword           the warrior's standby, from rapier to claymore
whip            the use of whips, chains, and bullwhips
exotic          the use of strange magical weapons
The exotic skill cannot be purchased, and is dependent solely upon level.

Allows you to brandish staffs and invoke the spells contained within.

help swim
swim
SWIM

The swim skill determines your ability to swim underwater or in the ocean. 
Being unable to swim will result in you attempting to breathe water, which
will hurt you.  Everyone can swim, though some have more trouble with it
than others.  This skill is passive, and does not need to be invoked in
order to function.

EXOTIC WEAPONS WEAPON WEAPONSMASTER AXE DAGGER FLAIL MACE POLEARM SPEAR STAFF SWORD WHIP
Each weapon skill applies to a specific group of armaments, and determines how
well a character fights with a particular weapon.  The weaponsmaster group
provides talent in all weapons (save exotics), from chair legs to halberds.
The weapon skills consist of the following:
weaponsmaster   skill group of all weapons listed below (save exotic weaponry)
axe             the use of axes, ranging from hand to great (but not halberds)
dagger          the use of knives and daggers, and other stabbing weapons
flail           skill in ball-and-chain type weapons
mace            this skill includes clubs and hammers as well as maces
polearm         the use of pole weapons (except spears), including halberds
spear           this skill covers long pointed weapons, but not polearms
staff           the staff skill covers long blunt weapons
sword           the warrior's standby, from rapier to claymore
whip            the use of whips, chains, and bullwhips
exotic          the use of strange magical weapons
The exotic skill cannot be purchased, and is dependent solely upon level.

help wand
BRANDISH QUAFF RECITE ZAP WAND STAFF SCROLL POTION
BRANDISH QUAFF RECITE ZAP WAND STAFF SCROLL POTION
Syntax: brandish <target>
Syntax: quaff    <potion>
Syntax: recite   <scroll> <target>
Syntax: zap      <target>
Syntax: zap
BRANDISH brandishes a magical staff.  QUAFF quaffs a magical potion (as opposed
to DRINK, which drinks mundane liquids).  RECITE recites a magical scroll; the
<target> is optional, depending on the nature of the scroll.  ZAP zaps a
magical wand at a target.  If the target is not specified, and you are fighting
someone, then that character is used for a target.
You must HOLD a wand or a staff before using BRANDISH or ZAP.
All of these commands use up their objects.  Potions and scrolls have a single
charge.  Wands and staves have multiple charges.  When a magical object has no
more charges, it will be consumed.
These commands may require an item skill to be successful, see the help entries
on the skills scrolls, staves, and wands for more information.

help whip
EXOTIC WEAPONS WEAPON WEAPONSMASTER AXE DAGGER FLAIL MACE POLEARM SPEAR STAFF SWORD WHIP
Each weapon skill applies to a specific group of armaments, and determines how
well a character fights with a particular weapon.  The weaponsmaster group
provides talent in all weapons (save exotics), from chair legs to halberds.
The weapon skills consist of the following:
weaponsmaster   skill group of all weapons listed below (save exotic weaponry)
axe             the use of axes, ranging from hand to great (but not halberds)
dagger          the use of knives and daggers, and other stabbing weapons
flail           skill in ball-and-chain type weapons
mace            this skill includes clubs and hammers as well as maces
polearm         the use of pole weapons (except spears), including halberds
spear           this skill covers long pointed weapons, but not polearms
staff           the staff skill covers long blunt weapons
sword           the warrior's standby, from rapier to claymore
whip            the use of whips, chains, and bullwhips
exotic          the use of strange magical weapons
The exotic skill cannot be purchased, and is dependent solely upon level.

help Riding
RIDING RIDE MOUNT DISMOUNT
Syntax:  ride <mob>
         ride <player>
         dismount
         mount
RIDE is the command used to ride a mob or player (dragon) who are able and
willing to transport you.  DISMOUNT will allow you to stop riding.  When you dismount, you resume a standing position.  You must have the riding skill to 
be able to ride.
MOUNT is a dragon/beastformed shaman only command and toggles between allowing
other players to ride you or not. At the moment there is no way to remove someone
who is riding you.

help 'dirt kicking'
'DIRT KICKING'
Considered by some to be a cowardly skill, dirt kicking gives the clever 
combatant a chance to blind his opponent by casting dirt into his eyes.  The
blindness does not last long, but can provide an edge in combat.  Dexterity
helps in hitting or avoiding a dirt kick.  Only warriors and thieves may
learn this skill.

ARMOR
ARMOR
Syntax: cast armor <character>
This spell decreases (improves) the armor class of the target character
by 20 points.

help 'Second Attack'
'SECOND ATTACK'
Training in second attack allows the character a chance at additional
strikes in combat -- although a 100% second attack does NOT guarantee 2
attacks every round.  Any class may learn this skill, although clerics and
mages have a very hard time with it.

help 'fast healing'
'FAST HEALING'
The fast healing skill improves wound healing rates, whether walking, resting,
or sleeping. It represents knowledge of healing herbs or just general
toughness and stamina.  Fast healing is checked every tick, and it is
possible for it to fail.  All class may learn this skill, but mages find it
very difficult to master, due to their bookish lifestyle.  The skill occurs 
automatically, so there is no command syntax.

help 'Hand to Hand'
'HAND TO HAND'
Hand to hand combat is a rare skill in the lands of Algoron.  Learning
this style of fighting gives the player a weapon even when disarmed --
bare hands. Trained hand to hand experts are far more effective than many
swordsmen. Clerics and warriors are the best at this skill, although
thieves and mages may also learn it.

help Kick
KICK
Kicking allows the adventurer to receive an extra attack in combat, a powerful
kick. However, a failed kick may throw an unwary fighter off balance.  Fighters
and clerics are the most skilled at kicking, although thieves may also learn
it.

mastery dagger stab hurl concealed attack
Mastery of the Dagger
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with a dagger as an armsman. Having
devoted themselves to mastery of the dagger, they may use the following skills:
 
stab             A fast piercing attack specialized to inflict damage upon
                 an enemy combatant.
hurl             An attack made with a small throwing dagger, resulting in
                 varying deleterious effects to the victim depending on the
                 blade's point of impact.
concealed attack An innate, reflexive reaction to being attacked that damages
                 the assailant in turn.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help Florentine
mastery sword florentine flurry cross
Mastery of the Sword
 
An armsman whom has mastered the discipline of the sword can leverage powerful
gladiatorial skill against an opponent. An armsman may understand and utilize the
following skills as a master of the sword:
 
florentine     The armsman retains a higher aptitude for defense while using
               two swords.
flurry         Summoning a burst of energy, the armsman makes a powerful
               rushing attack with their swords.
cross          While using two swords, the armsman may push down their
               opponent's weapon by crossing their own swords to create an
               opening to land a devastating kick.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help 'Refresh'
REFRESH
REFRESH

Syntax: cast refresh <character>

This spell refreshes the movement points of a character who is out of
movement points.  

See also - ENHANCEMENT

help Strip
mastery flail entwine sting strip
Mastery of the Flail
 
None upon the battlefield wield a flail with such deadly acumen as an armsman.
Their specialization in flails yields the following abilities:
 
entwine         A difficult attack utilizing two flails that prevents the
                victim from fleeing.
sting           A vicious lashing attack upon an opponent, resulting in
                an ensuing weakness.
strip           Owing to innate skill with a flail, an armsman may have a
                chance of disarming their opponent in combat.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help backhand
mastery mace backhand drum boneshatter
Mastery of the Mace
 
Armsmen that specialize in the mastery of the mace are experts in dealing
massive damage through blunt attacks. These armsmen are capable of the
following:
 
backhand       A fast, cruel backhand with a mace to inflict damage upon
               an opponent.
drum           The armsman moves his maces in a rhythmic fashion, allowing
               for increased attacks for a brief time. 
boneshatter    A powerful mace attack intended to hamper an opponent's agility.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help distance
mastery polearm distance entrap chargeset
Mastery of the Polearm 
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with a polearm as an armsman. Having  
devoted themselves to mastery of the polearm, they may use the following skills:  
 
distance       An instinctive method of keeping distance between the armsman 
               and their opponent while using polearms. 
entrap         The use of a polearm to entrap and disarm an opponents weapon, 
               unless it is too small like a dagger. 
chargeset       An instinctive reaction when you are attacked to swing your polearm 
               just right to let the person attacking you use their own momentum  
               to run upon your polearm. 
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help disarm
DISARM
Disarm is a somewhat showy and unreliable skill, designed to relieve your
opponent of his weapon.  The best possible chance of disarming occurs when you
are skilled with both your own and your opponent's weapon. Only talented thieves 
and warriors may learn this skill.

help 'Protection Evil'
'PROTECTION GOOD' 'PROTECTION EVIL' 'PROTECTION NEUTRAL'
'PROTECTION GOOD' 'PROTECTION EVIL' 'PROTECTION NEUTRAL'
Syntax: cast 'protection evil'
        cast 'protection good'
          cast 'protection neutral'     
The protection spells reduce damage taken from attackers of the appropriate
ethos, and improve saving throws against all forms of magic. They may not
be cast on others, and one person cannot carry both defenses at the same
time.

help 'Protection Good'
'PROTECTION GOOD' 'PROTECTION EVIL' 'PROTECTION NEUTRAL'
'PROTECTION GOOD' 'PROTECTION EVIL' 'PROTECTION NEUTRAL'
Syntax: cast 'protection evil'
        cast 'protection good'
          cast 'protection neutral'     
The protection spells reduce damage taken from attackers of the appropriate
ethos, and improve saving throws against all forms of magic. They may not
be cast on others, and one person cannot carry both defenses at the same
time.

help 'Protection Neutral'
'PROTECTION GOOD' 'PROTECTION EVIL' 'PROTECTION NEUTRAL'
'PROTECTION GOOD' 'PROTECTION EVIL' 'PROTECTION NEUTRAL'
Syntax: cast 'protection evil'
        cast 'protection good'
          cast 'protection neutral'     
The protection spells reduce damage taken from attackers of the appropriate
ethos, and improve saving throws against all forms of magic. They may not
be cast on others, and one person cannot carry both defenses at the same
time.

help spin
mastery spear spin impale legsweep
Mastery of the Spear
 
None are more adept in combat with a spear than an armsman versed in the
mastery of the spear. These armsmen can employ the following skills:
 
spin           An instinctive method of keeping distance between the armsman
               and their opponent while using spears.
impale         This savage attack pierces the opponent and impales them
               for massive damage.
legsweep       A knock-down attack with a spear to damage and take the legs
               out from under a foe.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help disembowel
mastery axe shield cleave scleave whirl disembowel
Mastery of the Axe 
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with an axe as an armsman. Having  
devoted themselves to mastery of the axe, they may use the following skills:  
  
shield cleave   Damages an opponent's shield with a mighty blow splitting it, 
                causing the wielder of the shield to wait until repairs can 
                be made before being able to wear it again. <scleave victim> 
                
whirl           A spin move with an axe to slice the tip of the blade through 
                an opponent damaging them. 
 
disembowel      A massive gut shot to an opponent, usable when an opponent is too 
                hurt to block it. 
  
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help 'Third Attack'
'THIRD ATTACK'
'THIRD ATTACK'
Training in third attack allows the character a chance at an additional strike
in a combat, and increases the chance of a second attack as well.  Perfect
third attack does NOT assure three attacks per round.  Only warriors and highly
skilled thieves may learn this skill.

help 'blind fighting'
blind fighting
BLIND FIGHTING
Under the tutelage of a master weaponsmaster, the dedicated combatant can
learn how to utilize his weapons so effectively in combat that he is
proficient with them even while blinded.  The blind fighting skill negates
the disadvantages of losing vision in a fight by magic or smoke.  A wide
variety of classes and reclasses may learn this fighting technique.

help dodge
DODGE
In the words of one wise warrior, 'the best way to block a blow is to not
be where it lands'.  The dodge skill honors this tradition, by improving the
character's natural agility to the point where many blows will miss the 
target. The chance of dodging is also affected by the dexterity of the
attacker and the target.  Any class may learn dodging.

help Haggle
HAGGLE HAGGLING
Haggling is an indispensable skill to the trader.  It allows a character to
match wits with a merchant, seeking to get a better price for merchandise,
or to buy at the lowest possible cost.  Unfortunately, most merchants are
already very skilled at haggling, so the untrained adventurer had best 
guard his treasure closely.  Thieves are natural masters at haggling,
although other classes may learn it as well.

help Peek
PEEK
Syntax: peek <mob/player>
The peek skill is useful for seeing what a player or monster is carrying,
the better to use the steal command with.  More intelligent characters are
harder to peek at.  All characters may learn peek, but thieves are the most
common practitioners.

help Meditation
MEDITATION
This skill is similar to fast healing, but relies on the concentration and
mantras to increase mana recovery when the character is sleeping or resting.
Thieves and warriors, with their troubled minds and violent attitudes, have
much trouble learning to meditate.

help trip
TRIP
Back by popular demand.  Trip is a somewhat dastardly attack, and involves
using any one of a number of methods to bring your opponent down to the ground.
Tripping large monsters is generally not a good idea, and agile ones will
find the attack easy to avoid.  Thieves and warriors may learn trip.

Trip does not work on flying opponents.

help 'Infravision'
INFRAVISION
INFRAVISION

Syntax: cast infravision <character>

This spell enables the target character to see warm-blooded creatures even
while in the dark, and exits of a room as well.  

See also - ENHANCEMENT

help 'Word of Recall'
'WORD OF RECALL'
'WORD OF RECALL'
Syntax: cast 'word of recall'
This spell duplicates the built-in RECALL ability.  It is provided solely for
Merc-based muds which wish to eliminate the built-in ability while still
providing the spell. This spell circumvents the pkill no-recall lag.

help yank
mastery whip lash yank choke
Mastery of the Whip 
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with a whip as an armsman. Having  
devoted themselves to mastery of the whip, they may use the following skills:  
 
lash           Entangles an opponent's feet with a whip, causing them to
               fall hard. 
yank           Snares an opponent using two whips and allows the armsman
               to drag the opponent in a direction of their choosing.
               <yank victim direction>  
choke          Entangles an unaware victim's neck with a whip, causing them
               to pass out due to lack of air.  
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help Grip
grip
Few are so proficient with weapons as an armsman, hence through 
intense training armsmen develop an instinctive sense as to when 
they are about to be disarmed. This innate ability lends to being 
disarmed less frequently.

help berserk
BERSERK
Only powerful warriors can master berserking, the ability to enter insane rage
in combat.  Its effects are not altogether unlike the frenzy spell -- a huge
surge of combat prowess, coupled with a disregard for personal safety.  
Berserking warriors are more resistant to the effects of magic.

help 'Fireproof'
FIREPROOF
Syntax: cast 'fireproof' <object>
The fireproof spell creates a short-lived protective aura around an object,
to protect it from the harmful effects of acid and flame.  Items protected
by this spell are not harmed by acid, fire, or the heat metal spell.
Although inexpensive to use, the spell's short duration makes it impractical
for protecting large numbers of objects.

help charge
CHARGE
Syntax:  charge <direction> <target>
         charge <target>
         charge
Charge is an attack skill used when riding a mount and wielding a
polearm.  It therefore requires that you know both the riding and polearm
skills before you can use it.  Only Warriors, Paladins, Barbarians and 
Crusaders have what it takes to learn this skill.  You may charge a target 
to initiate combat.  You may charge without a target if combat is already
underway.  You can also charge from a adjacent room.  
 
See also:  RIDING, POLEARM

help 'Giant Strength'
'GIANT STRENGTH'
'GIANT STRENGTH'

Syntax: cast 'giant strength' <character>

The caster can enhance the physical strength of a target, either himself or
another, with this spell, giving the recipient the strength of a mighty
giant.  

See also - ENHANCEMENT

help lore
LORE
Lore is a general skill, consisting of knowledge of myths and legends. Use
of the lore skill gives a chance of obtaining information on an object,
concerning its power and uses.  It also may occasionally increase the value
of an object, because more will be known about its worth.  All classes may
learn lore, although thieves are best at it, and warriors find it very hard
to use.
Lore works automatically, each time you look at or examine an object.

help sting
mastery flail entwine sting strip
Mastery of the Flail
 
None upon the battlefield wield a flail with such deadly acumen as an armsman.
Their specialization in flails yields the following abilities:
 
entwine         A difficult attack utilizing two flails that prevents the
                victim from fleeing.
sting           A vicious lashing attack upon an opponent, resulting in
                an ensuing weakness.
strip           Owing to innate skill with a flail, an armsman may have a
                chance of disarming their opponent in combat.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help 'enhanced reactions'
ENHANCED REACTIONS

Syntax: Passive

Owing to keen reflexes and innate ability, armsmen are often more 
proficient at dodging and parrying attacks due to their enhanced 
reactions.

help 'dual wield'
dual wield
DUAL WIELD
syntax: hold <primary weapon>
        secondary <secondary weapon>
Under the tutelage of a weapons expert, a combatant may learn how to wield a
weapon in each hand during combat to increase the overall amount of attacks
each round of attack.  Obviously, with a weapon in each hand, there is no
possibility of holding a shield.  Since most people favor one hand more than
the other, the combatant typically finds that he can hold a heavy weapon
with his proficient hand and a lighter weapon with the other.  Rangers,
however, have the single ability to dual wield weapons of the same weight.
Note:  If the primary weapon is somehow removed, the secondary weapon
automatically switches to the the primary hand.
 
To dual wield, one must type second <weapon>. The only restriction is
that the secondary weapon must weigh less than the primary weapon. However,
there are some known classes out there that might be able to wield two
weapons of the same weight as well as be able to dual wield two handed
weapons.

help fly
FLY
FLY
Syntax: cast 'fly' <character>
This spell enables the target character to fly.  There are some areas where
passage may not be enabled simply by flying, for example - an underwater
cave might require the use of swimming to get through.  You cannot rest
sleep or ride a mount while flying.  
 
See also 'LAND'

help 'Light Foot'
light foot
Syntax: cast 'light foot'
 
Light foot is a spell of enhancement that allows the caster to reduce the
cost it takes to move through a given room.  Any creature, friend or foe benefits
from this magic if cast.  The spell does not spread to adjacent rooms.

help Summon
SUMMON
SUMMON
Syntax: cast summon <character>
This spell summons a character from anywhere else in the world into your room.
Characters who are fighting may not be summoned.

help cross
mastery sword florentine flurry cross
Mastery of the Sword
 
An armsman whom has mastered the discipline of the sword can leverage powerful
gladiatorial skill against an opponent. An armsman may understand and utilize the
following skills as a master of the sword:
 
florentine     The armsman retains a higher aptitude for defense while using
               two swords.
flurry         Summoning a burst of energy, the armsman makes a powerful
               rushing attack with their swords.
cross          While using two swords, the armsman may push down their
               opponent's weapon by crossing their own swords to create an
               opening to land a devastating kick.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help Lash
mastery whip lash yank choke
Mastery of the Whip 
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with a whip as an armsman. Having  
devoted themselves to mastery of the whip, they may use the following skills:  
 
lash           Entangles an opponent's feet with a whip, causing them to
               fall hard. 
yank           Snares an opponent using two whips and allows the armsman
               to drag the opponent in a direction of their choosing.
               <yank victim direction>  
choke          Entangles an unaware victim's neck with a whip, causing them
               to pass out due to lack of air.  
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

PICK 'PICK LOCK'
Syntax: pick <object>
Syntax: pick <door>
Lock picking is one of the prime skills of thieves, allowing them to gain
access to many secured areas.  Lock picking chances are improved by
intelligence, and hindered by the difficulty of the lock. Other classes may
learn to pick locks, but they will never find it easy.

help 'concealed attack'
mastery dagger stab hurl concealed attack
Mastery of the Dagger
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with a dagger as an armsman. Having
devoted themselves to mastery of the dagger, they may use the following skills:
 
stab             A fast piercing attack specialized to inflict damage upon
                 an enemy combatant.
hurl             An attack made with a small throwing dagger, resulting in
                 varying deleterious effects to the victim depending on the
                 blade's point of impact.
concealed attack An innate, reflexive reaction to being attacked that damages
                 the assailant in turn.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help entrap
mastery polearm distance entrap chargeset
Mastery of the Polearm 
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with a polearm as an armsman. Having  
devoted themselves to mastery of the polearm, they may use the following skills:  
 
distance       An instinctive method of keeping distance between the armsman 
               and their opponent while using polearms. 
entrap         The use of a polearm to entrap and disarm an opponents weapon, 
               unless it is too small like a dagger. 
chargeset       An instinctive reaction when you are attacked to swing your polearm 
               just right to let the person attacking you use their own momentum  
               to run upon your polearm. 
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help 'Fourth Attack'
fourth attack
FOURTH ATTACK
Given that the Barbarian cares nothing for magic, he is unfettered by the
time restraints needed for the study and practice of casting.  Instead, a
Barbarian may choose to devote his time to the study of weaponry and
fighting.  This additional training comes in handy as the Barbarian becomes
so adept at fighting that he can often recieve a fourth attack in combat.
see also 'BARBARIAN'

help Gate
GATE
GATE
syntax:  cast gate <target>
The gate spell is a powerful transportation magic that opens up a portal 
between your character and another person or creature somewhere else in the
world.  This portal will transport you and any pet you might have, but not
other members of your group.  Monsters receive a save against gate, and
monster or players more than 3 levels higher than you can not be gated to at 
all.  God rooms, private rooms, and no recall rooms cannot be gated to, and
no recall rooms cannot be gated out of.  Finally, any god or hero is also 
immune to gate, as well as any player who has no summon set.  Clan members 
may not be gated to except by their fellow Clan members. Gate is not powerful
enough to cross the vast oceans to another continent.

help Haste
HASTE
HASTE

Syntax: cast 'haste' <target>

The haste spell increases the speed and agility of the recipient, allowing
an extra attack (or even a backstab) in combat, and improving evasive
abilities in combat.  

However, it produces a great strain on the system, such that recuperative
abilities are halved.  Haste is capable of negating the slow spell.  

See also - ENHANCEMENT SLOW

help Legsweep
mastery spear spin impale legsweep
Mastery of the Spear
 
None are more adept in combat with a spear than an armsman versed in the
mastery of the spear. These armsmen can employ the following skills:
 
spin           An instinctive method of keeping distance between the armsman
               and their opponent while using spears.
impale         This savage attack pierces the opponent and impales them
               for massive damage.
legsweep       A knock-down attack with a spear to damage and take the legs
               out from under a foe.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help 'Sanctuary'
SANCTUARY
SANCTUARY
Syntax: cast sanctuary  <character>
The SANCTUARY spell reduces the damage taken by the character from any attack
by one half.

help drum
mastery mace backhand drum boneshatter
Mastery of the Mace
 
Armsmen that specialize in the mastery of the mace are experts in dealing
massive damage through blunt attacks. These armsmen are capable of the
following:
 
backhand       A fast, cruel backhand with a mace to inflict damage upon
               an opponent.
drum           The armsman moves his maces in a rhythmic fashion, allowing
               for increased attacks for a brief time. 
boneshatter    A powerful mace attack intended to hamper an opponent's agility.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help Flurry
mastery sword florentine flurry cross
Mastery of the Sword
 
An armsman whom has mastered the discipline of the sword can leverage powerful
gladiatorial skill against an opponent. An armsman may understand and utilize the
following skills as a master of the sword:
 
florentine     The armsman retains a higher aptitude for defense while using
               two swords.
flurry         Summoning a burst of energy, the armsman makes a powerful
               rushing attack with their swords.
cross          While using two swords, the armsman may push down their
               opponent's weapon by crossing their own swords to create an
               opening to land a devastating kick.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help Cancellation
'DISPEL MAGIC' CANCELLATION
'DISPEL MAGIC' CANCELLATION
Syntax: cast 'dispel magic' <character>
        cast 'cancellation' <character>
Both of these spells remove magical effects from the target.  Dispel magic
has a reduced chance of working, and is considering an attack spell.
Cancellation can only be used on allies, but is much more effective and does
not provoke attack.  Unfortunately, the spells do not discriminate between
harmful and benign spells.
The chance of dispelling is based on the level of the spell. Permanent spells
(such as mobile sanctuary) are much harder to remove.  Not all spells may
be dispelled, notable examples are poison and plague.

help whirl
mastery axe shield cleave scleave whirl disembowel
Mastery of the Axe 
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with an axe as an armsman. Having  
devoted themselves to mastery of the axe, they may use the following skills:  
  
shield cleave   Damages an opponent's shield with a mighty blow splitting it, 
                causing the wielder of the shield to wait until repairs can 
                be made before being able to wear it again. <scleave victim> 
                
whirl           A spin move with an axe to slice the tip of the blade through 
                an opponent damaging them. 
 
disembowel      A massive gut shot to an opponent, usable when an opponent is too 
                hurt to block it. 
  
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help teleport
TELEPORT
TELEPORT
Syntax: cast <teleport>
This spell takes you from your current location to a random location somewhere
in the world.

help choke
mastery whip lash yank choke
Mastery of the Whip 
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with a whip as an armsman. Having  
devoted themselves to mastery of the whip, they may use the following skills:  
 
lash           Entangles an opponent's feet with a whip, causing them to
               fall hard. 
yank           Snares an opponent using two whips and allows the armsman
               to drag the opponent in a direction of their choosing.
               <yank victim direction>  
choke          Entangles an unaware victim's neck with a whip, causing them
               to pass out due to lack of air.  
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help 'Pass Door'
'PASS DOOR'
'PASS DOOR'
Syntax: cast 'pass door'
This spell enables the caster to pass through closed doors.

help chargeset
mastery polearm distance entrap chargeset
Mastery of the Polearm 
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with a polearm as an armsman. Having  
devoted themselves to mastery of the polearm, they may use the following skills:  
 
distance       An instinctive method of keeping distance between the armsman 
               and their opponent while using polearms. 
entrap         The use of a polearm to entrap and disarm an opponents weapon, 
               unless it is too small like a dagger. 
chargeset       An instinctive reaction when you are attacked to swing your polearm 
               just right to let the person attacking you use their own momentum  
               to run upon your polearm. 
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help waypoint
waypoint
Syntax: cast 'waypoint'
        cast 'waypoint' recall
 
Waypoint is a spell of transportation that allows the caster to mark a room
and gate back to it for a period of time.  The waypoint weakens with each and
can be dispeled by other magics.  Only one waypoint may ever exist for a caster
at any one time.
 
A waypoint in rare circumstances may drift from it's original point of origin.

help 'Portal'
Syntax: cast 'portal' <target>
The portal spell is similar to gate, but creates a lasting one-way portal to
the target creature, instead of transporting the caster.  Portals are
entered using 'enter' command, as in 'enter portal'.  Portals cannot be made
to certain destinations, nor used to escape from gate-proof rooms.  Portal
requires a special source of power to be used, unfortunately the secret of
this material component has been lost...  Portals can traverse the boundries
of the continents.  Use look in <portal> to see destination.

help 'Shield'

SHIELD 'STONE SKIN'
SHIELD 'STONE SKIN'
Syntax: cast shield
Syntax: cast 'stone skin'
These spells protect the caster by decreasing (improving) the caster's armor
class.  SHIELD provides 20 points off armor.  STONE SKIN provides 40 points off
armor.

help boneshatter
mastery mace backhand drum boneshatter
Mastery of the Mace
 
Armsmen that specialize in the mastery of the mace are experts in dealing
massive damage through blunt attacks. These armsmen are capable of the
following:
 
backhand       A fast, cruel backhand with a mace to inflict damage upon
               an opponent.
drum           The armsman moves his maces in a rhythmic fashion, allowing
               for increased attacks for a brief time. 
boneshatter    A powerful mace attack intended to hamper an opponent's agility.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help 'Shield Cleave'
mastery axe shield cleave scleave whirl disembowel
Mastery of the Axe 
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with an axe as an armsman. Having  
devoted themselves to mastery of the axe, they may use the following skills:  
  
shield cleave   Damages an opponent's shield with a mighty blow splitting it, 
                causing the wielder of the shield to wait until repairs can 
                be made before being able to wear it again. <scleave victim> 
                
whirl           A spin move with an axe to slice the tip of the blade through 
                an opponent damaging them. 
 
disembowel      A massive gut shot to an opponent, usable when an opponent is too 
                hurt to block it. 
  
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help entwine
mastery flail entwine sting strip
Mastery of the Flail
 
None upon the battlefield wield a flail with such deadly acumen as an armsman.
Their specialization in flails yields the following abilities:
 
entwine         A difficult attack utilizing two flails that prevents the
                victim from fleeing.
sting           A vicious lashing attack upon an opponent, resulting in
                an ensuing weakness.
strip           Owing to innate skill with a flail, an armsman may have a
                chance of disarming their opponent in combat.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help Hurl
mastery dagger stab hurl concealed attack
Mastery of the Dagger
 
Few combatants are so skilled in combat with a dagger as an armsman. Having
devoted themselves to mastery of the dagger, they may use the following skills:
 
stab             A fast piercing attack specialized to inflict damage upon
                 an enemy combatant.
hurl             An attack made with a small throwing dagger, resulting in
                 varying deleterious effects to the victim depending on the
                 blade's point of impact.
concealed attack An innate, reflexive reaction to being attacked that damages
                 the assailant in turn.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help Impale
mastery spear spin impale legsweep
Mastery of the Spear
 
None are more adept in combat with a spear than an armsman versed in the
mastery of the spear. These armsmen can employ the following skills:
 
spin           An instinctive method of keeping distance between the armsman
               and their opponent while using spears.
impale         This savage attack pierces the opponent and impales them
               for massive damage.
legsweep       A knock-down attack with a spear to damage and take the legs
               out from under a foe.
 
This group is available to the following classes: ARMSMAN

help 'Nexus'
'NEXUS'
NEXUS
Syntax: cast 'nexus' <target>
This spell is virtually identical to portal (see 'help portal'), with the
only difference being that while portal creates a one-way gate, a nexus 
spell makes a two-sided gate.  It also lasts longer than the lower-powered
portal spell.  Both spells require an additional power source, the secret
of which has been lost... This spell can traverse the boundries of continents.

help 'Stone Skin'
SHIELD 'STONE SKIN'
SHIELD 'STONE SKIN'
Syntax: cast shield
Syntax: cast 'stone skin'
These spells protect the caster by decreasing (improving) the caster's armor
class.  SHIELD provides 20 points off armor.  STONE SKIN provides 40 points off
armor.