> I'm just wondering if there is any strategy for killing the party in level nine protecting the city? I seriously hurt or kill at least half of the party members, then I run away and get a fresh batch of monsters, just to die the second time around very quickly. One minute I have full HP, then I'm dead. *sigh* Is there any strategy I'm missing? Or do you just try over and over (and over and over) again until the buggers are dead?
> Thanks....

It depends at least partly on the monsters; some minions will be more helpful here than others. If you don't like what you get at one monster portal, there are a few others to try. Remember that certain monsters can be really annoying to the adventurers in MR, even early in the game; early on, for example, I really didn't want to meet up with Rattlesnakes -- for a very good reason, which you will have to determine on your own. But the statement has relevance here.

If there are still any other parties left elsewhere on the level, you might want to eliminate them first, as the city guardians are the toughest ones on Level 9. You will increase your strength and other capabilities that way. And have you hit all of the pools yet?

If this party is all you've got left, then attacking a little bit at a time is sound strategy. But make use of any magic items you can find (scrolls, e.g.) -- whatever gives you an edge. You might to kill a few blue parties (*just* a few) in order to get some of these things.

Don't know if that helps you, but this is how I handled the same situation. This is the first *big* challenge in Murkon's Vengeance.

mac "had to work at it the first time too" rinus7