Core Coliseum Writing Contest - June 2006 [Archive] - Wizards Community

Core Coliseum Writing Contest - June 2006 [Archive] - Wizards Community

Post/Author/DateTime Post
Caterane
06-22-06, 09:03 AM WRITING CONTEST
- JUNE 2006 -

This is a community poll for all members of the Core coliseum.

The Writing Contest Submissions (http://boards1.wizards.com/showthread.php?t=654893) thread has a number of stories which some of our regulars have finished till the 20th of the month. Now that thos deadline is up, I open a public poll where you are encouraged to vote for the best story.

The winner of the contest receives the mentioned prize: 3° for the winner. Every other story that enters the Tales of Gladius thread gains 2° (this is already included in the prize for 1st place).

Now I know that we all love to click on poll buttons but here we have to make sure that you have read the stories else it would be unfair to those who invested so much effort and time into their great tales. That's why there are some requirements you have to meet:

- You must have a character on the character roster
- You must write a critic about the stories.

The critic must be more than "I like the writing style". Tell us what exactly you liked, what you disliked, and how it could be improved. It's not to annoy you; that will help the authors to improve. Fail to meet the requirements and your vote will be ignored. Critics have to be posted in this thread.

Scribelords will make a post at the end, announcing the winners and the # of votes, then he sends me a PM (to Pitlords) and I assign your credits. Normally, the Writing Contest accepts stories till the 20th, then the poll will last till the 30th. This poll closes on June 30 and you may only vote once.

If you haven't done it yet, go and read the stories!!!

Contest Entries

"The history of Ash-Del Oghoth", Author: Hawkeye_60

"Reclaiming Corona", Author: Caterane

"The Books Speak in the Council Chambers", Author: Book5

"Hatred – Illior’s Story", Author: Setzertrancer
Zevox
06-22-06, 09:32 AM I think you jumped the gun a bit here Cat. According to the submissions thread stories can still be submitted until the 24th this month - Saturday.

Zevox
Caterane
06-22-06, 02:11 PM Hm, you're right. On the other hand I don't think anyone writes a story in the next 2 days (no reserved spots). Let's do it that way: if there's another story till the 24th, I open a new poll. But let's assume these are the 4 stories and vote on them.
King Uther
06-22-06, 08:36 PM I guess I never saw the notification. I would've loved to write a story, but now I wouldn't have the time to do so. Oh well. I'm looking forward to reading those that posted.
MindWandererB
06-22-06, 09:12 PM Here are my two cents.

The history of Ash-Del Oghoth: Decent prose and a cohesive narrative, but it jumps around quite a bit. I would have liked to see a bit more time spend on each discrete event in the story. It felt like it had a lot to say but was rushed.

Reclaiming Corona: A tiny piece of a larger story. Unless one has followed the Ixenthor and/or Harvester's sagas, it's not very interesting. The story has a nice flow to it, though, and actually has a plot, albeit a limited one. I prefer traditional prose to the variation in color and font, but that's just me.

The Books Speak in the Council Chambers: Cute concept. Not exactly a "story," though. And I have a hard time following the point.

Hatred – Illior’s Story: A solid introduction to a character. Grammar, etc. could use some work, but the vividness of the characters served the point of a story: to show, rather than tell.

A close contest, but my vote goes to Setzertrancer. It would have been a stronger victory if it had been proofread more, and the writing isn't particularly strong, but it's the strongest submission as a story.
Zevox
06-22-06, 09:47 PM Hm, you're right. On the other hand I don't think anyone writes a story in the next 2 days (no reserved spots). Let's do it that way: if there's another story till the 24th, I open a new poll. But let's assume these are the 4 stories and vote on them.
*chuckles* Actually, half of the reason I mentioned that is because I have one I'm writing (I was going to submit it last month, but didn't finish - actually I barely got started). I have a bad habit of procrastinating on recreational writing though, particularly when I have new video games around (like I do now), so whether or not I'll finish it in time is up in the air. I intend to though.

Zevox
Setzertrancer
06-23-06, 02:05 AM I agree with Zevox, I was actually going to proof read my story again before the due date and improve it a bit more. But oh well at least I've already gotten one vote the way it is. Woohoo!

Any chance I can go over it again though since we are meant to have another 3 days.
Hawkeye_60
06-23-06, 02:07 AM Same here. I'll either second the motion, or third it if Zevox decides to finish his story and post it for this month.
Caterane
06-23-06, 04:17 AM Alright, I'll open a new poll tomorow. Mindwanderer can just copy/paste.
MindWandererB
06-23-06, 04:23 AM Only if the changes are insubstantial and no one submits anything new. I reserve the right to change my vote in such cases, so Setzer, don't rest on your laurels just yet.
Caterane
06-23-06, 08:35 PM It's the 24th now and there are no new stories. The poll is open again.
Zevox
06-23-06, 09:02 PM It's the 24th now and there are no new stories. The poll is open again.
Meh, I guess I wasn't fast enough. Oh well, mine will just have to wait for July then.

Zevox
DarthVegan
06-25-06, 11:26 PM @Setz: I really enjoyed this story, you have exhibited excellent character development, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

However, I voted for Caterane's story because it seemed more...how should I say this?...mature. I have not read any of his other stories, but I am definately intrigued to say the least.

Yada, yada, yada...my vote goes to Cat.
Erithmu
06-25-06, 11:52 PM Vote to Setzer: Quality story, with room to develop as time progresses. Leaves me wanting more but still has a beginning middle and end to give the feeling of a 'chapter'

@Hawk: feels more like a summary background that would be attached to a character sheet when we want the details of sight, smell and taste through your words than a narrative.

@Cat: Now if I can just figure out how corona got to Evermelt after it was in Havesters hands. and you don't need anymore credits :)

@Book: Still one of my favorite concepts that you bring to the CoCo, that our 'avatars' are basically Gods of the arena when we take on the pitlord/questlord role. I'm tempted to make a Cleric of Caterine with domains of Cheating (luck) and powergaming (magic) under your idea
Caterane
06-26-06, 04:52 AM @Erithmu: Ixenthor gave his other weapons, Ixenthor's Edge and Ixenthor's Point, to the Harvester in return for a favor. Corona was his weapon in the ancient times and now that he was weaponless he thought it would be a good time to retrieve it. PS: I don't cheat :mad:

@DarthVegan: Here are the Tales of Gladius (http://boards1.wizards.com/showpost.php?p=7048367) where you can find many other much longer stories from me. I recommend "Ancient Evils Part IV: Ancient Times" (my favorite) and the "Deepstone Squad". The "Year of Hell" is about the beginning of Living Gladius.
Pittbull
06-26-06, 04:09 PM I just love Archangel-stories!
King Uther
06-27-06, 01:44 AM I voted for Ash's background for a multitude of reasons. I think a lot of it has to do with the changing of a young boy into a cold killer. And while that transformation could have been embellished upon a bit, the idea is sound and gives way for a more interesting look at the personality of Ash.
Caterane
06-30-06, 09:31 AM Last Chance to Vote guys!! Don't leave the authors in the lurch!

Hm, poll is already closed. Well, we have two winners. Instead of splitting the winner reward I forego my share in Setzertrancer's favor.
Setzertrancer
06-30-06, 10:03 PM Yay, thank you everyone, I'm looking forward to submitting next month.
Book5
07-03-06, 07:38 PM Me too Telin!

"who writes stuff in two days"
I wrote that piece in the span of three hours when I was supposed to be doing something else in one of my research labs (the "serious" design lab.. snicker) like allot of "writers" I need certain "stuff" to trigger that ... "writing thing" ... in my case its a particular type of user interface. I hear some people require yellow paper. Writers -

I was gonna say "Writers - ...." something like "WIERDOS" or sumthin, but I forget now.

and flippin!!! Everybody musta justa waited till I get here to start calling. I swear. I wasn't here, nuthin, I'm here, flood. :weep:

I didnt win? Drat!

See ya next month guys :D I'll probably tell some of Tan's origin story.
:smirk: Instead of characterizing "us characters."

PS: Cat don't cheat - he just dat good. Word.

@Cat - Actually I think that when you take "Caterane" as your diety - your trying to cheat the system.. somehow or another :rolleyes: Imagine someone taking the books gets like "law, chaos, language, and foolishness" or sumthin ;) be back before Tan and Ba'al get kicked out of their respective guilds. (we have four weeks right? - ahh, Vath hasn't kicked anybody out yet)
Pitlords
07-04-06, 06:39 PM 3° for Setzertrancer assigned!

Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Caterane 06-22-06, 09:03 AM	WRITING CONTEST - JUNE 2006 - This is a community poll for all members of the Core coliseum. The Writing Contest Submissions (http://boards1.wizards.com/showthread.php?t=654893) thread has a number of stories which some of our regulars have finished till the 20th of the month. Now that thos deadline is up, I open a public poll where you are encouraged to vote for the best story. The winner of the contest receives the mentioned prize: 3° for the winner. Every other story that enters the Tales of Gladius thread gains 2° (this is already included in the prize for 1st place). Now I know that we all love to click on poll buttons but here we have to make sure that you have read the stories else it would be unfair to those who invested so much effort and time into their great tales. That's why there are some requirements you have to meet: - You must have a character on the character roster - You must write a critic about the stories. The critic must be more than "I like the writing style". Tell us what exactly you liked, what you disliked, and how it could be improved. It's not to annoy you; that will help the authors to improve. Fail to meet the requirements and your vote will be ignored. Critics have to be posted in this thread. Scribelords will make a post at the end, announcing the winners and the # of votes, then he sends me a PM (to Pitlords) and I assign your credits. Normally, the Writing Contest accepts stories till the 20th, then the poll will last till the 30th. This poll closes on June 30 and you may only vote once. If you haven't done it yet, go and read the stories!!! Contest Entries "The history of Ash-Del Oghoth", Author: Hawkeye_60 "Reclaiming Corona", Author: Caterane "The Books Speak in the Council Chambers", Author: Book5 "Hatred – Illior’s Story", Author: Setzertrancer
Zevox 06-22-06, 09:32 AM	I think you jumped the gun a bit here Cat. According to the submissions thread stories can still be submitted until the 24th this month - Saturday. Zevox
Caterane 06-22-06, 02:11 PM	Hm, you're right. On the other hand I don't think anyone writes a story in the next 2 days (no reserved spots). Let's do it that way: if there's another story till the 24th, I open a new poll. But let's assume these are the 4 stories and vote on them.
King Uther 06-22-06, 08:36 PM	I guess I never saw the notification. I would've loved to write a story, but now I wouldn't have the time to do so. Oh well. I'm looking forward to reading those that posted.
MindWandererB 06-22-06, 09:12 PM	Here are my two cents. The history of Ash-Del Oghoth: Decent prose and a cohesive narrative, but it jumps around quite a bit. I would have liked to see a bit more time spend on each discrete event in the story. It felt like it had a lot to say but was rushed. Reclaiming Corona: A tiny piece of a larger story. Unless one has followed the Ixenthor and/or Harvester's sagas, it's not very interesting. The story has a nice flow to it, though, and actually has a plot, albeit a limited one. I prefer traditional prose to the variation in color and font, but that's just me. The Books Speak in the Council Chambers: Cute concept. Not exactly a "story," though. And I have a hard time following the point. Hatred – Illior’s Story: A solid introduction to a character. Grammar, etc. could use some work, but the vividness of the characters served the point of a story: to show, rather than tell. A close contest, but my vote goes to Setzertrancer. It would have been a stronger victory if it had been proofread more, and the writing isn't particularly strong, but it's the strongest submission as a story.
Zevox 06-22-06, 09:47 PM	Hm, you're right. On the other hand I don't think anyone writes a story in the next 2 days (no reserved spots). Let's do it that way: if there's another story till the 24th, I open a new poll. But let's assume these are the 4 stories and vote on them. chuckles Actually, half of the reason I mentioned that is because I have one I'm writing (I was going to submit it last month, but didn't finish - actually I barely got started). I have a bad habit of procrastinating on recreational writing though, particularly when I have new video games around (like I do now), so whether or not I'll finish it in time is up in the air. I intend to though. Zevox
Setzertrancer 06-23-06, 02:05 AM	I agree with Zevox, I was actually going to proof read my story again before the due date and improve it a bit more. But oh well at least I've already gotten one vote the way it is. Woohoo! Any chance I can go over it again though since we are meant to have another 3 days.
Hawkeye_60 06-23-06, 02:07 AM	Same here. I'll either second the motion, or third it if Zevox decides to finish his story and post it for this month.
Caterane 06-23-06, 04:17 AM	Alright, I'll open a new poll tomorow. Mindwanderer can just copy/paste.
MindWandererB 06-23-06, 04:23 AM	Only if the changes are insubstantial and no one submits anything new. I reserve the right to change my vote in such cases, so Setzer, don't rest on your laurels just yet.
Caterane 06-23-06, 08:35 PM	It's the 24th now and there are no new stories. The poll is open again.
Zevox 06-23-06, 09:02 PM	It's the 24th now and there are no new stories. The poll is open again. Meh, I guess I wasn't fast enough. Oh well, mine will just have to wait for July then. Zevox
DarthVegan 06-25-06, 11:26 PM	@Setz: I really enjoyed this story, you have exhibited excellent character development, which I thoroughly enjoyed. However, I voted for Caterane's story because it seemed more...how should I say this?...mature. I have not read any of his other stories, but I am definately intrigued to say the least. Yada, yada, yada...my vote goes to Cat.
Erithmu 06-25-06, 11:52 PM	Vote to Setzer: Quality story, with room to develop as time progresses. Leaves me wanting more but still has a beginning middle and end to give the feeling of a 'chapter' @Hawk: feels more like a summary background that would be attached to a character sheet when we want the details of sight, smell and taste through your words than a narrative. @Cat: Now if I can just figure out how corona got to Evermelt after it was in Havesters hands. and you don't need anymore credits :) @Book: Still one of my favorite concepts that you bring to the CoCo, that our 'avatars' are basically Gods of the arena when we take on the pitlord/questlord role. I'm tempted to make a Cleric of Caterine with domains of Cheating (luck) and powergaming (magic) under your idea
Caterane 06-26-06, 04:52 AM	@Erithmu: Ixenthor gave his other weapons, Ixenthor's Edge and Ixenthor's Point, to the Harvester in return for a favor. Corona was his weapon in the ancient times and now that he was weaponless he thought it would be a good time to retrieve it. PS: I don't cheat :mad: @DarthVegan: Here are the Tales of Gladius (http://boards1.wizards.com/showpost.php?p=7048367) where you can find many other much longer stories from me. I recommend "Ancient Evils Part IV: Ancient Times" (my favorite) and the "Deepstone Squad". The "Year of Hell" is about the beginning of Living Gladius.
Pittbull 06-26-06, 04:09 PM	I just love Archangel-stories!
King Uther 06-27-06, 01:44 AM	I voted for Ash's background for a multitude of reasons. I think a lot of it has to do with the changing of a young boy into a cold killer. And while that transformation could have been embellished upon a bit, the idea is sound and gives way for a more interesting look at the personality of Ash.
Caterane 06-30-06, 09:31 AM	Last Chance to Vote guys!! Don't leave the authors in the lurch! Hm, poll is already closed. Well, we have two winners. Instead of splitting the winner reward I forego my share in Setzertrancer's favor.
Setzertrancer 06-30-06, 10:03 PM	Yay, thank you everyone, I'm looking forward to submitting next month.
Book5 07-03-06, 07:38 PM	Me too Telin! "who writes stuff in two days" I wrote that piece in the span of three hours when I was supposed to be doing something else in one of my research labs (the "serious" design lab.. snicker) like allot of "writers" I need certain "stuff" to trigger that ... "writing thing" ... in my case its a particular type of user interface. I hear some people require yellow paper. Writers - I was gonna say "Writers - ...." something like "WIERDOS" or sumthin, but I forget now. and flippin!!! Everybody musta justa waited till I get here to start calling. I swear. I wasn't here, nuthin, I'm here, flood. :weep: I didnt win? Drat! See ya next month guys :D I'll probably tell some of Tan's origin story. :smirk: Instead of characterizing "us characters." PS: Cat don't cheat - he just dat good. Word. @Cat - Actually I think that when you take "Caterane" as your diety - your trying to cheat the system.. somehow or another :rolleyes: Imagine someone taking the books gets like "law, chaos, language, and foolishness" or sumthin ;) be back before Tan and Ba'al get kicked out of their respective guilds. (we have four weeks right? - ahh, Vath hasn't kicked anybody out yet)
Pitlords 07-04-06, 06:39 PM	3° for Setzertrancer assigned!