A chat feature is provided, allowing you to communicate with other players logged into the game even if they are not physically present on screen with you. The chat feature can be accessed via the Chat button in the Character Window.
The Chat feature allows you to join real-time conferences – each conference is basically a text-based conversation between up to 300 people. For more private discussions, you can create a new conference and even password-protect it.
Long-distance communication is also possible via magic items called Communications Crystals.
Message Boards
Each tavern and bank in the land contains a message board where you can leave messages for other players.
If you check a message board, you will see a list of current messages, threaded by topic. You can start your own thread (using the POST MESSAGE button on the main board) or reply to an existing thread (from within the message you wish to reply to). Messages left on boards are cleared out after a suitable span of time.
Message boards also contain an automated record of recent player vs. player killings in the area, and are often the source for information about current adventure and commercial opportunities.
Quests
A quest is triggered when an NPC offers you something in exchange for accomplishing a certain task. There are several ways to get quests in Ultima Online. Sometimes NPCs will approach you asking for assistance. This can range from very simple tasks, to more complex (and sometimes morally dubious) activities. Be warned that agreeing to murder someone, for example, will have a dramatic negative effect on your Fame!
Sometimes you will find postings on the local bulletin boards about quests; in particular, kidnappings (whose victims are in need of rescue) and job offers often appear there. You can hire on to escort a rich and foolish noble to a dungeon, or escort a bride to her wedding in a distant city, or rescue a prisoner held by evil bandits in the woods.
Then there are the “quests” you set for yourself. Many NPCs will have information about magical items, and they will be able to offer rudimentary directions and information about an item’s location. You can then attempt to obtain the item. (Sometimes the items may already be in the hands of other players.) A good way to elicit rumors of this type is to give gifts of food or money to NPCs.
For quests where an NPC must be taken somewhere, the NPC will follow you. (You may have to unlock the chains first, which you can do by double-clicking them). Once you are at the destination, the NPC will know it and reward you.
Logging Out Safely
You can leave Ultima Online by clicking on the LOG OUT button in your Character Window.
When you log out of the game, your character will “hang around” for a few minutes before vanishing from play. During this time, your character will fight back automatically if attacked, but will not be able to move, cast spells or take other evasive action (this is done so that unscrupulous characters will not be able to unfairly escape dangerous situations simply by breaking their connection). There are only two ways to log out in complete safety.
First, you can log out instantly from any inn or tavern.
Second, you can use the Camping skill to log out safely from the wilderness.
